Lincolnshire Pride July 2026

PR IDE LINCOLNSHIRE

WELCOME TO PRIDE

Sometimes there are moments in life that compel us to just pause. One such moment this month occurred as we were photographing the inaugural Dean’s Dinner at Lincoln Cathedral, during which 200 people gathered to mark the 20th anniversary of the restoration of the Cathedral’s Dean’s Eye window, The 13th-century window that faces north and depicts the Last Judgement and the second coming of Christ

It was a bright afternoon and as the sun began to set, the light through the window was extraordinarily beautiful. It was so bright that I couldn’t help but pause and admire it for a few minutes. In a world of computer monitors and phone screens, high-resolution images and LED lighting, it’s a reminder that for all our technology, still nobody makes light like God makes light. Most people’s instinct these days upon seeing such a scene is to whip out a phone to capture the moment, and our first thought is often to capture it on a camera for the magazine. If the beauty of the window has reminded us of one thing though, it’s to pause before you take the picture, and just appreciate the scene. You might say that thanks to the sight of the sun shining through the Dean’s Eye window, we’ve literally seen the light.

Just before we leave you to enjoy this edition, you’ll notice one improvement this month as we include a couple of features from slightly further afield than our own county borders. It was a suggestion made by a number of readers, that we’ve been considering following our recent reader survey. As well as keeping readers informed as to what’s going on in the county, we’re now including events like What’s On listings from London and some nationally significant events like Henley Royal Regatta and this year’s RHS shows. Doing so will, we anticipate, add an extra dimension to the magazine, especially as the capital is less than an hour away by train, and offers much in the way of heritage and entertainment, all year round.

Our best wishes for a wonderful month!

Julian Wilkinson CEO & Founder, Pride Magazines

LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS

08 LOCAL NEWS Our round-up of ‘good news’ stories from across Lincolnshire.

HIGH LIFE Lincoln Cathedral hosts its inaugural Dean’s Dinner.

32 HIGH SHERIFF Sue Liburd MBE on the importance of community cohesion.

37 THE GUIDE The best live events, music, theatre and other events taking place across Lincolnshire this month.

56OAR INSPIRING Royal Henley 2026.

104ON THE FARM Andrew Ward MBE.

106 WEDDINGS Lincolnshire couple Kate and Tom enjoy a wedding in the Wolds.

FOOD & DRINK

18 DINING OUT Exceptional dining out across the county with a choice of superlative starters and first class first courses.

23LINCOLNSHIRE RESTAURANTS

Our comprehensive guide to the best local restaurants, cafés, bistros, plus food producers and suppliers.

28 RECIPE Delicious, convenient and healthy, chef Emily English presents recipes from her latest book.

31WINE July recommendations.

HOMES & GARDENS

66 WELCOME HOME Property experts Lucy and Mark create a luxurious new home in south Lincolnshire.

74HOMES Inspiration to transform your outdoor spaces into a secret garden.

80GARDENING Advice from author and garden designer Mark Lane.

87 IN FULL BLOOM Enjoy RHS seasonal highlights all summer long from Chelsea to Sandringham.

94 PROPERTY The finest selection of luxury homes in Lincolnshire.

PORTFOLIO

118 LUXURY BRANDS Fernando Alonso on a brand new partnership between Aston Martin and Breitling.

126 FASHION Style for summer holidays from kaftans to cover-ups.

134STYLE FOR MEN Orlebar Brown.

138TRAVEL Luxury in Lake Como.

146MOTORS Toyota’s Land Cruiser.

160ALMANAC Trivia and miscellany. 80126

152SPORT Wimbledon and The Open.

156NATURE Heroes of hedgerows.

READ FREE ONLINE: visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire TO SUBSCRIBE: visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk/lincolnshire/subscribe

This month’s cover shows a sunrise on the Lincolnshire coast. We’re always looking for outstanding images that show off the area in which we live. To submit your photograph for possible use on our cover, email editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

CEO & Founder of Pride Magazines: Julian Wilkinson.

Managing Director: Matthew Deere.

Sales Director: Zoie Wilkinson.

Executive Editor: Rob Davis.

Customer Care Manager: Mandy Bray.

Sales Executives: Aisha Joyce, Miranda Harness, Chelsea Zealand, Eboni Canham, Grace Trotter, Hermione John.

Finance: Margarita Pavlesevica.

Accounts: Mia Garner.

IT Manager: Ian Bagley.

Web Developer: Joe Proctor.

Pride Magazines

Magazines Centre,

Telephone:

Boston Enterprise Centre, Enterprise Way, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 7TW. Telephone: 01529 469977. Web: www.pridemagazines.co.uk. Email: sales@pridemagazines.co.uk

By supplying editorial or advertising copy to Pride you accept in full the terms and conditions which can be found online at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

In the event of an advert or editorial being published incorrectly, where Pride Magazines Ltd admits fault, we will include an advert of equivalent size, or equivalent sized editorial, free of charge to be used in a future edition, at our discretion. This gesture is accepted as full compensation for the error(s) with no refunds available. Selected images in our content may be sourced from www.shutterstock.com.

Professionally delivered to the region’s wealthiest

households

Pride Magazines engage with over 60,000 readers across print and digital. Each edition is delivered free of charge, via Royal Mail, directly into the wealthiest households –exclusively those in council tax bands F, G and H, typically valued at £500,000+.

We are the only local magazine delivered by Royal Mail directly to letterboxes. We never rely on paperboys or bulk drops. Every copy is placed with precision, ensuring your brand reaches a discerning, affluent audience.

Our circulation is further extended through carefully selected placements in premium venues including luxury dealerships, private hospitals, golf clubs, fine dining restaurants, and boutique hotels – keeping Pride highly visible across the region’s most influential spaces.

Alongside this unrivalled distribution, Pride also leads the way online, with over 36,000 discerning social media followers – more than any other local magazine. Our editions are also available via our website, app, and on Readly and Issuu, allowing readers to enjoy every issue online.

Each issue blends engaging editorial, striking design, and features that celebrate luxury living – the perfect setting to showcase the region’s finest businesses.

To promote your business in Pride, call 01529 469977, email sales@pridemagazines.co.uk, or download our media pack at www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

EnjoyPride Magazines onyourtablet or computer

You can enjoy all of our Pride Magazines free each month on your tablet. Visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk to start reading, or visit Readly, the online newsstand.

Readly is a downloadable app for your phone and tablet enabling you to view all of the pages in over 8,000 magazines, with all back issues of magazines available to view too.

Magazines appears in high resolution, you can zoom in or view in reader mode. You can also receive notifications when a new edition is published so you’ll never miss an edition!

See gb.readly.com to begin your free one month trial.

Local News

A cinema for Sleaford

Plans for a cinema in the centre of Sleaford are moving forward, with Savoy Cinemas preparing to submit a planning application for a site at Money’s Yard. Backed by NKDC and Savoy, the development could open by autumn 2027. The 320-seat venue will feature four state-ofthe-art screens, recliner seating and modern facilities, helping to boost the town centre economy. Council leader Richard Wright said the long-awaited project fulfils a promise to bring a cinema back to Sleaford after years of public demand.

“I’m sorry,” says artist Annabel

Do you have anything to apologise for? If so, head to Grimsby’s Fishing Heritage Centre, for some inspiration. Artist Annabel McCourt has opened her latest exhibition, I’m Sorry, at Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre as Pride goes to press. Running until 31st August, the deeply personal collection explores forgiveness, guilt, healing, inviting visitors into a contemplative space for reflection and transformation.

Church ceremony celebrates repair

St John the Baptist Church in High Toynton near Horncastle has recently reopened, six years after its tower collapsed without warning in January 2020. The Victorian church has been rebuilt by Lincoln stonemasons, funded in part by a £200,000 National Lottery Heritage Fund grant and donations from villagers. A dedication service led by the Bishop of Grimsby, the Right Reverend Jean Burgess, marked the reopening on 10th May.

Chalk it down to experience

This summer the Lincolnshire Chalk Streams Project is celebrating 20 years of protecting and restoring the county’s internationally important chalk streams.

Fewer than 300 chalk streams exist worldwide, with the UK home to 85% of them. Since launching, the project has worked with landowners, volunteers and conservation groups to improve habitats for wildlife including water voles and brown trout.

Lincolnshire Show safe for the future with sponsorship

Agreement between Lincolnshire County Council and the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society will safeguard the future of the Show...

With the 141st Lincolnshire Show set to take place on Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th June, organisers have welcomed a major new sponsorship agreement designed to help secure the event’s longterm future.

Lincolnshire County Council has agreed a landmark sponsorship deal with the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society to help secure the future of the Lincolnshire Show amid rising operating costs and mounting financial pressures. The council will provide £67,600 in corporate sponsorship for the 2026 event following discussions with the Society, which has

warned that their increasing maintenance and repair costs are placing strain on the longrunning county show. Similar agricultural events elsewhere in the country have already been forced to scale back or cease trading altogether.

Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, Sean Matthews, said the authority regarded the Show as one of the county’s most important annual events and wanted to support its future success.

He said the Show provided an opportunity for residents to engage with councillors, discover council services and promote

Lincolnshire as a visitor destination, while also celebrating the county’s agricultural heritage.

Now in its 141st year, the Lincolnshire Show attracts tens of thousands of visitors each summer and has developed beyond its agricultural roots into a major showcase for tourism, innovation, food production and local enterprise.

Last year’s event welcomed a record 65,000 visitors across two days and generated an estimated £12.5m for the local economy.

Lincolnshire Agricultural Society chief executive Charlotte Powell welcomed the sponsorship, describing the Show as a vital celebration of Lincolnshire’s heritage and businesses.

lincolnshireshowground.co.uk.

Local windmills in crisis

Winds of change for four historic windmills with community ownership a possibility

Four of Lincolnshire’s historic windmills could soon pass into community or private ownership as the county council seeks solutions for mounting repair costs. Alford Windmill, Burgh le Marsh Windmill, Heckington Windmill and Lincoln Ellis Mill are all said to be in poor condition following years of underinvestment.

Councillors heard that repairs are placing growing pressure on public finances, so the council is exploring alternative ownership models to safeguard the landmarks. Campaigners have urged swift action, particularly over Ellis Mill in Lincoln, where serious concerns have been raised about the building’s condition.

Send your Lincolnshire news stories or press releases to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

Statue unveiled to influential British engineer

Bomber during the Second World War. His work played a crucial role in ensuring safe landings for returning crews and contributed significantly to Allied success.

Last month more than 100 guests gathered at Lincoln’s International Bomber Command Centre for the unveiling of a new statue honouring pioneering engineer Sir George Dowty. Widely regarded as one of Britain’s most influential twentieth-century engineers, Dowty transformed aviation technology through his innovative hydraulic landing gear systems, most famously used on the Avro Lancaster

The new 8ft bronze sculpture, funded by the Sir George Dowty Memorial Committee in Gloucestershire, depicts Dowty standing beside a Lancaster bomber wheel. The engineer later adapted his expertise to improve mining safety, creating hydraulic pit props that dramatically reduced the risk of roof collapses in coal mines worldwide.

ACM Sir Mike Graydon, Chair of IBCC Trustees, described Dowty as an ‘unsung hero’ whose engineering brilliance was instrumental in the Lancaster story.

WINGS ON FREEDOM’S

A dramatic new landmark beside the A46 is ensuring Lincolnshire’s proud Bomber Command heritage will never be forgotten. On Freedom’s Wings

— a monumental steel Lancaster sculpture created near RAF Swinderby — honours the courage, sacrifice and service of the thousands of aircrew who flew from Bomber County during the Second World War

Images: Claire Hartley.

Last month saw the official unveiling of one of Lincolnshire’s most striking new landmarks, as hundreds gathered near the A46 at Norton Disney to witness the completion of On Freedom’s Wings — a monumental sculpture honouring the crews of Bomber Command and the sacrifices made across Lincolnshire during the Second World War.

Created by The Bomber County Gateway Trust, the project has been led by Charlie White, Adrian Longmate and Sophie White, transforming years of planning and fundraising into a remarkable tribute visible to thousands of motorists every day.

The sculpture represents a full-scale Lancaster bomber banking on its final approach to RAF Swinderby, recalling the tragic crash of Lancaster R5689 in nearby Thurlby Top Wood in September 1942. Four members of the seven-man crew lost their lives returning from a dangerous mission over the Baltic.

Standing 29 metres high with a wingspan of over 31 metres, the sculpture is even taller than Gateshead’s Angel of the North.

Weighing more than 100 tonnes, the structure has been engineered to withstand the exposed Lincolnshire landscape for generations to come. Its Corten steel exterior will weather naturally over time, creating a dramatic silhouette against the county skyline.

The Lancaster itself was manufactured by Lincolnshire’s own Timmins, while installation of the colossal structure was undertaken by Hutchinson Engineering. The finished work combines aviation history, engineering excellence and public art on an extraordinary scale.

During the opening celebrations, visitors heard the moving story of Lancaster VN-N, the aircraft whose final moments inspired the memorial. The sculpture is not intended to commemorate one crew alone, but instead serves as a lasting reminder of the 55,573 Bomber Command personnel who lost their lives during the war.

The project has also benefited from the support of local historians, veterans, businesses and volunteers, with pathways and landscaping designed to create a reflective setting around the landmark.

On Freedom’s Wings can be seen now. It’s located off the A46 at Norton Disney.

THE DEAN’S DINNER

Lincoln Cathedral welcomed more than 200 guests to the inaugural Dean’s Dinner last night, marking the 20th anniversary of the restoration of the Dean’s Eye window and raising awareness of the vital conservation work needed to preserve one of the county’s greatest landmarks

Images:Rob Davis.

More than 200 guests gathered in the magnificent nave of Lincoln Cathedral recently for the inaugural Dean’s Dinner, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the restoration of the Cathedral’s iconic Dean’s Eye window. Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner beneath the soaring Gothic architecture, with special guest Revd Richard Coles — cleric, broadcaster, writer and former member of The Communards — providing an entertaining address. Throughout the evening, members of the Cathedral’s Works Department demonstrated traditional heritage crafts used to conserve the building. It was also revealed that the Cathedral costs £5.75m annually to operate, receiving no regular government or Church of England funding for repairs. Each guest received a fragment of Lincolnshire limestone from replacement stone carvings. See www.lincolncathedral.com.

FOOD & DRINK

with crispy belly pork, and pancetta, at The Pig & Whistle, Healing Manor, 01472 884544 or see www.healingmanorhotel.co.uk.

First Courses

A roundup of the finest first courses from Lincolnshire’s best restaurants

Top Left: Pan roast salmon fillet with crab and dill salad, at The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa, 01526 352411, www.petwood.co.uk.

Top Right: Ham hock raviolo, apple & lovage velouté at The Olive Branch, Clipsham, 01780 410 355, www.theolivebranchpub.com.

Above, Left: Wye Valley asparagus, garlic and crispy quail eggs at The Jews House, Lincoln, 01522 524851, www.jewshouserestaurant.co.uk.

Above Right: Crab and tuna loin with soy, lime, mango, cucumber gel, at The George of Stamford, 01780 750750, www.georgehotelofstamford.com.

NB: Featured dishes subject to availability and change.

Top Left: Local pigeon, brioche, blackberry, mirto and foie gras espuma at San Pietro, Scunthorpe, 01724 277774, www.sanpietro.uk.com.

Top Right: Whitelake Goats Curd with beetroot, apple & rocket at The Six Bells, Witham on the Hill, 01778 590360, www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.

Above Left: Cured sea trout and forced rhubarb umeboshi at The Grain Store, Doddington Hall, Lincoln, 01522 243189, doddingtonhall.com.

Above Right: Turbot with kohlrabi, clams, lardo and buttermilk at Winteringham Fields, North Lincolnshire, 01724 733096, winteringhamfields.co.uk.

Top Left: Salmon gravlax with lemon curd, at The Old Bakery, Lincoln 01522 244646, www.theoldbakery.co.uk.

Top Right: Seafood thermidor at The Thorold Arms, Harmston, call 01522 722788 or see www.thethoroldarmsharmston.co.uk.

Above Left: Barbecue monkfish tail with pickled fennel, at The Red Lion, West Deeping, 07421 977661, www.theredlionwestdeeping.co.uk.

Above Right: Spiced Masala Scotch Egg at The Duke William Hotel, Lincoln, 01522 532753, www.dukewilliamlincoln.com.

NB: Featured dishes subject to availability and change.

n d r n e a tarbele , c e si f ht o rae e h h n tx i a

.nlocni l L lihp c U irots

THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE

BOSTON

THE BALL HOUSE

A family­friendly pub with a cosy atmosphere, offering traditional British fare. Known for its Sunday carvery and extensive menu that includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten­free diners. Wainfleet Road, Boston, PE21 9RL. Call 01205 364478 theballhouseboston.co.uk.

MEET &MEAT

A distinctive fusion of Mediterranean­inspired cuisine with a modern touch. West Street, Boston PE21 8QN. Call 07723 237070 or see www.meetandmeat.co.uk.

THE MILL INN

OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS

Each year we ask our readers to vote for their favourite restaurants, coffee shops and food producers, revealing our winners in our January editions. We’ve highlighted our winners in gold to make sure they’re easy to see!

Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk to find out more.

Help us keep Lincolnshire Pride up to date: If you notice a change to any restaurant, pub or café featured, we’d love your help to ensure our listings are comprehensive and up to date... email any updates to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

YE OLDE RED LION

THE CHEQUERS

A popular pub known for its warm ambience and classic British pub dishes and Italian dishes too.

Spilsby Rd, Boston, PE21 9QN. Call 01205 352874 or see www.themillboston.co.uk.

MONKEY & I

Conveniently located in Church Street, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors to meet up, relax, and enjoy our authentic Thai cuisine. Church Street, Boston PE21 6NW. Call 07808 590203 or see www.monkeyandithai.co.uk.

THE ROPERS ARMS

Italian bistro serving authentic dishes, set in an early 19thcentury public house overlooking the Maud Foster mill and river. Horncastle Road, Boston PE21 9BU. Call 07572 456110.

THE WHITE HART

Part of the Coaching Inn Group, set within a charming 19th­century hotel, this restaurant provides a varied menu focused on British cuisine. The riverside views make it an ideal spot for a memorable meal.

High Street, Boston, PE21 8SH. Call 01205 311900 or see www.whitehartboston.com.

An award­winning country pub that prides itself on producing satisfying dishes. Cosy atmosphere in the winter, with Low beams & log burning fires. For great summer dining there’s also a relaxing beer garden. Try the Lincolnshire Tapas, too!

Bicker, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE20 3EF. Call 01775 821200, www.redlionbicker.co.uk.

GRANTHAM

ANGEL & ROYAL

Reputedly England's oldest inn, with the Kings Room Restaurant and Bertie's Bistro and Bar.

High Street, Grantham, NG31 6PN. Call 01476 565 816 or see www.angelandroyal.co.uk.

BELTON WOODS

Bar & Grill with a warm and welcoming atmosphere and offers an inviting selection of flavourful grilled dishes. Spa, golf course and four­star accommodation on site.

Gonerby NG32 2LN. Call 01476 593 200 or see www.beltonwoods.co.uk.

BROWNLOW ARMS

In the heart of a picturesque village in Lincolnshire, the Brownlow Arms is a 17thcentury country inn formerly owned by Lord Brownlow. Providing good old fashioned country hospitality and modern comforts in a tranquil and relaxing location.

Hough on the Hill, NG32 2AZ. Call 01400 250234 or see www.thebrownlowarms.com.

Seasonal dishes from longstanding favourites to monthly changing dishes, from a team passionate about creating the tastiest and most interesting food they can.

Woolsthorpe By Belvoir, NG32 1LU. Call 01476 870701 or see www.chequersinn.net.

THE GREEN MAN

A traditional British pub offering hearty meals in a friendly setting, specialising in steaks and classic pub fare. High St, Ropsley, NG33 4BE. Call 01476 585897 or see the-green-man-ropsley.com.

HARE & HOUNDS

17th­century public house promises good dining, and a friendly atmosphere. Fulbeck, Grantham NG32 3JJ. Call 01400 273322 or see hareandhoundsfulbeck.com.

PLOUGH, WILSFORD

Exceptional pub restaurant home to Paul Reseigh, formerly of the George of Stamford. Fabulous à la carte menu of satisfying dishes prepared with excellent chefcraft and imagination. Wilsford, NG32 3NS. Call 01400 664037 or see theploughinnwilsford.co.uk.

RESTAURANT JERICHO

Fine dining in the Vale of Belvoir courtesy of this fascinating 20­course tasting menu based restaurant, with just 12 covers a night. Orchard Farm, Plungar NG13 0JA. Call 01949 728288 or see www.restaurantjericho.com.

LINCOLN

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2025 ANTLERS AT THE WHITE HART

Lincolnshire Pride’s Restaurant of the Year for 2024, as voted for by our readers. Antlers serves seasonally inspired à la carte lunch and dinner menu. For those who are looking for a perfect way to celebrate, Antlers also serves a full Afternoon Tea menu and classic cocktails as well as offering private dining. Bailgate, LN1 3AR. Call 01522 526222 or see whitehart-lincoln.co.uk.

THE BRONZE PIG

A stylish, modern restaurant known for its seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients with an innovative Mediterranean twist.

Burton Road, Lincoln, LN1 3LB Call 01522 524817 or see www.thebronzepig.co.uk.

COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR 2025

GRAIN STORE CAFÉ,

RESTAURANT & BAR

Delicious breakfast and lunch served daily, with evening dining Friday and Saturday, showcasing seasonal estate­grown produce, rare breed Lincoln Red beef and the finest local ingredients. Doddington Hall, Lincoln, LN6 4RU. Call 01522 243189 or see www.doddingtonhall.com.

HARBOUR

LIGHTS BAR & KITCHEN

Waterfront restaurant on the marina at Burton Waters offering enticing dishes including seafood and steaks. Burton Waters, LN1 2TU. Call 01522 808233 or see www.harbourlights.uk.com.

HOBBSONS

Formerly Browns Pie Shop & Restaurant. A ‘Best of British’ restaurant.

Steep Hill, Lincoln, LN2 1LU. Call 01522 527330 or see www.hobbsons.co.uk.

THE JEWS HOUSE RESTAURANT

Respected restaurant housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings. Set menu and tasting menu. Artisan produce, seasonal, freshness, excellent service. The Strait, Lincoln, LN2 1JD. Call 01522 524851 or see jewshouserestaurant.co.uk.

NO.38 AT THE TOWER

3 AA star hotel offering exceptional dining for non­residents, delivering satisfying à la carte dishes. 38 Westgate, Lincoln LN1 3BD. Call 01522 529999 or see www.thetowerlincoln.com.

THE OLD BAKERY

A not­for­profit restaurant owned and operated by students of Lincoln College, offering tasting menus that highlight seasonal ingredients. 26-28 Burton Road, Lincoln, LN1 3LB. Call 01522 244646, www.theold-bakery.co.uk.

OLÉ OLÉ

Family­run authentic Spanish restaurant set in the heart of Lincolnshire’s historic Lawns, great for summer dining outdoors but equally satisfying in the cooler months.

The Lawn 3 Ingleman Place, Union Rd, Lincoln, LN1 3BU. Call 01522 534222 or see www.oleolelincoln.co.uk.

THE PALE

Robbie Dowdall’s family­run restaurant offers a range of seafood dishes with an Irish twist, and an ethos of comfort food and quality, influenced by Robbie’s childhood in Howth, Dublin. Robust breakfast menu too, with traditional Irish scones... sweet or savoury!

West Parade, Lincoln, LN1 1JT. Call 01522 646801 or see www.thepale.co.uk.

THE THOROLD ARMS

Paul Vidic, renowned Lincolnshire chef, took over the running of a community pub, in 2021 to provide excellent food and drink in a relaxed and beautiful setting in Harmston. High Street, Harmston LN5 9SN. Call 01522 722788 or see thoroldarmsharmston.co.uk.

LOUTH &RASEN

ADVOCATE ARMS

Award winning restaurant serves fabulous meals created from local ingredients. The restaurant has been awarded two stars for its dining by the AA. Queen Street, Market Rasen LN8 3EH. Call 01673 842364 or see www.advocatearms.co.uk.

AUCTION HOUSE

Gareth Bartram welcomes you to Restaurant Auction House. Offering a menu using the finest produce available in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Cornmarket, Louth, LN11 9PY. Call 01507 311805 or see auctionhouserestaurant.co.uk.

KENWICK PARK

Fantastic food and drink in the family­friendly Fairways Restaurant and Keepers Bar. Kenwick Park, Louth LN11 8NR. Call 01507 608806 or see www.kenwick-park.co.uk.

NORTH & NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE FOREST

PINES

Spa, hotel and golf estate with restaurant near Brigg offering bistro dining. Brigg, DN20 0AQ. Call 01652 650 770 or see www.forestpineshotel.co.uk.

HOPE & ANCHOR

Fantastic Michelin Bib Gourmand lauded pub restaurant run by Slawomir Mikolajczyk. South Ferriby, DN18 6JQ. Call 01652 635334 or see thehopeandanchorpub.co.uk.

Hope & Anchor, South Ferriby.

RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS 2025 PIG &WHISTLE

Locally­sourced British dishes with a rustic charm and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Healing, Grimsby, DN41 7QF. Call 01472 884544 healingmanorhotel.co.uk.

BEST INTERNATIONAL DINING RESTAURANT 2025

SAN PIETRO

Two­AA Rosette Award winning fine dining restaurant benefitting from the Sicilian heritage of Pietro Catalano who runs the business with wife Michelle. Scunthorpe, DN15 6UH. Call 01724 277774 or see www.sanpietro.uk.com.

WINTERINGHAM FIELDS

Lincolnshire’s only Michelinstar restaurant offering an immersive dining experience with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Winteringham, DN15 9ND. Call 01724 733096 or see www.winteringhamfields.co.uk.

SKEGNESS

GINGERLILY, THE VINE

Cosy, friendly atmosphere and delicious dishes including traditional English meals. Vine Road, Seacroft, Skegness, PE25 3DB Call 01754 610611 or see www.thevinehotel.co.uk.

SAN RUFO’S

Family­friendly Italian eatery known for its authentic pizzas. Roman Bank, Skegness, PE25 1SD. Call 01754 612242 or see www.sanrufos.co.uk.

SLEAFORD

THE BARGE AND BOTTLE

A canal­side pub with a relaxed ambiance, and a wide range of satisfying food, including a good provision of Sunday lunch. Outdoor seating area with heaters. Carre St, Sleaford, NG34 7TW. Call 01529 303303 or see www.thebargeandbottle.co.uk.

THE BUSTARD INN

Beautifully­presented Grade II listed quality pub restaurant, whose awards include two AArosettes and a Traveller’s Choice award. Exceptional dining in a beautiful rural setting with private dining room and bar with flagstone floor and open fires. Main Street, South Rauceby Lincolnshire, NG34 8QG. Call 01529 488250 or see www.thebustardinn.co.uk.

THE CARRE ARMS

Charming Edwardian hotel and restaurant renowned for quality service & fabulous food. An eclectic mix of modern English and Mediterranean dishes. Mareham Lane, Sleaford NG34 7JP. Call 01529 303156 or see carrearmshotel.co.uk.

THE MALLARDS RESTAURANT

Classic British cuisine in a cosy setting, known for its Sunday roasts and welcoming service. Eastgate, Sleaford, NG34 7DJ. Call 01529 413758.

THE SOLO BISTRO

Bistro bar and hotel with traditional dishes presented in a contemporary style making the most of local ingredients. Market Street, Sleaford NG34 7SF. Call 01529 303200 or see www.thesolo.bar.

TABLEZ BISTRO

Award­winning café bistro. With indoor and outdoor seating as well as a fantastic balcony, a great place to pop in for breakfast or lunch. Southgate, Sleaford NG34 7RZ. Call 01529 300922.

THAI SABAI

Contemporary Thai restaurant specialising in authentic Asian cuisine. Dishes are expertly prepared on the premises. Thai Chefs using only the finest ingredients along with herbs and spices imported directly from Thailand. Millstream Square, Sleaford NG34 7RZ. Call 01529 413333 or see thaisabaisleaford.co.uk.

WATERGATE YARD

An all­day and late­night bar and kitchen in the heart of Sleaford. With world beers and cocktails plus a range of artisan gins. Water Gate, Sleaford NG34 7PG Call 01529 413489 or see www.watergateyard.co.uk.

SPALDING

THE BLACK BULL

Quality pub restaurant

offering a well­curated menu packed with hearty food. Market Place, Donington, Spalding, PE11 4ST. Call 01775 822228 or see theblackbulldonington.co.uk.

JASHIR INDIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

A culinary destination that offers unforgettable Indian dishes made with the finest ingredients and spices. 11 Double Street, Spalding PE11 2AA. Call 01775 423001 or see www.jashir.co.uk.

THE PARLOUR

Authentic, Edwardian­style restaurant for lunch and afternoon tea, overlooking Springfields’ Festival Gardens. Camelgate, Spalding PE12 6EU. Call 01775 760949 or see www.springfieldsoutlet.co.uk.

STAMFORD

THE

BULL & SWAN

Everything a traditional English inn should be, with gastro food and real ales, on the magnificent Burghley Estate. High Street St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 766412 or see www.thebullandswan.co.uk.

CROWN HOTEL

This historic former coaching inn is now a well­regarded restaurant and hotel. A warm atmosphere and dishes with quality local ingredients.

All Saints' Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

MILLY’S BISTRO

Located within the Georgian William Cecil Hotel, Milly’s offers a homely vibrant feel and an inspired menu.

St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 750070 or see www.millysbistro.co.uk.

THE OAK ROOM AT THE GEORGE OF STAMFORD

An elegant, historic venue offering a fine dining experience with classic British cuisine. Located in The George Hotel, this restaurant features candlelit tables and oak­panelled walls, ideal for special occasions. Choice of two dining rooms; The Garden Restaurant and The Oak Room, the latter has a truly exceptional menu.

St. Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LB. Call 01780 750750 or see georgehotelofstamford.com.

From cosy inns to fine dining, Pride’s Good Food Guide has your Lincolnshire dining plans sorted...

Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk to find out more.

WOODHALL SPA, HORNCASTLE AND CONINGSBY

THE ADMIRAL RODNEY

200­year­old coaching inn

offering daytime and evening dining as well as comfortable accommodation. Part of the award­winning Coaching Inn Group which also includes Boston’s White Hart Hotel. North St, Horncastle, LN9 5DX. Call 01507 523131 or see www.admiralrodney.com.

THE DOWER HOUSE

Elegant country house hotel providing a range of freshly cooked dishes in a Victorian country house once home to Col Stafford Vere Hotchkin. Woodhall Spa, LN10 6PY. Call 01526 352588 or see www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk.

KITCHENETTA

Deli and coffee shop providing freshly baked cakes and hampers as well as daytime favourites. Broadway, Woodhall Spa LN10 6ST. Call 01526 268008 or see www.kitchenetta.co.uk.

THE LEAGATE INN

Quality dining pub, run by the Dennison family since 1983 with Harry & Laura offering delicious seasonal dishes. Leagate Rd, Coningsby, LN4 4RS. Call 07957 756495 or see www.theleagateinn.co.uk.

Dower House, Woodhall Spa.

MAGPIES

Small family run Restaurant with Rooms set in a row of 200­year­old cottages in Horncastle serving a menu of fine dining dishes created by Andrew Gilbert with Caroline Gilbert at front of house. East Street, Horncastle, LN9 6AA. Call 01507 527004, www.magpiesrestaurant.co.uk.

PETWOOD HOTEL

Serving delicious and creative food with an AA rosette award for quality and consistency. Restaurant and terrace bar, popular classic afternoon tea provision, historic links to the Dambusters Squadron which once counted the Petwood at its home, and handsome Peto­landscaped grounds. Also renowned for Sunday lunches, and a popular wedding/events venue. Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QG. Call 01526 352411 or see www.petwood.co.uk.

ZUCCHI BISTRO

Established in 2011 as a Mediterranean bistro with culinary influences. Tapas and sharing dishes as well as stone­baked pizzas, pasta and al forno dishes. Station Road, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6QL. Call 01526 354466 or see www.zucci.org.

FOOD & DRINK BUTCHERY

Boston Sausage/Mountains, home to the Lincolnshire Sausage, with a dedicated farm shop at Abbey Parks near East Heckington. Call 01205 821 610 or shop online at www.mountainsfarmshop.com

Gary Simpson Butchers, offering traceable and exceptional butchery including dry­aged beef plus Lincolnshire sausages, haslet, stuffed chine and more. Sleaford, Heckington, South Hykeham and Stamford. 01529 460403, shop online at www.gsimpsonbutchers.co.uk.

BAKERY

LINCOLNSHIRE PRIDE’S BEST FOOD PRODUCER 2025 Myers Bakery,home of the Lincolnshire Plum Loaf and artisan bakers founded by Charles Myer in 1901. Call 01507 525871 or shop online at www.myersbakery.co.uk.

Vine’s Bakery, specialises in baking artisan breads and pastries using the highest quality ingredients and time­honoured traditions. Call 01522 581353 or shop online at www.vinesartisanbakery.co.uk.

LOCAL CHEESE

The Cheese Society, cheese ambassadors, retailers and cheese café in the heart of Lincoln. Subscriptions and gift boxes available. www.thecheesesociety.co.uk.

Cote Hill Cheese, home to Michael and Mary Davenport who have been creating Cote Hill White, Blue, Red, Yellow and Snowdrop from their farm since 2004, now ably assisted by son Joe, second generation cheesemaker. www.cotehill.com.

Lincolnshire Poacher, F W Read’s Tim and Simon Jones produce Lincolnshire Poacher, with a little help from their 230 Holstein Friesian cows... www.lincolnshirepoachercheese.com.

FISH

Alfred Enderby, traditional smokehouse in Grimsby specialising in dry­smoking haddock, salmon and trout. www.alfredenderby.co.uk.

East Lincs Seafood, established in 1987 and providing the freshest wet fish and shellfish to consumers. Call 01205 364372.

LINCOLNSHIRE DRINKS

Bateman’s, good honest ales since 1874, including flagship XXXB ale, available in bottles or on tap in the best Lincolnshire pubs. See www.batemansbrewery.co.uk.

Belvoir Fruit Farms, the home of delicious elderflower cordials and pressés, more than 40 drinks, all with natural ingredients. See www.belvoirfarm.co.uk.

8 Sail Brewery, multi­award­winning microbrewery based in Heckington Windmill. See www.8sailbrewery.com.

Lincoln Tea & Coffee Company Multi­award­winning and passionate about supplying roasted coffee, fine leaf tea, barista training & equipment with excellent customer service. Proud sponsors of The Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Typhoon Display Team. Products include the iconic Lincolnshire Tea. A true fresh approach. www.thelincolnteaandcoffeecompany.co.uk.

Mayfield Vineyard, located in the heart of Burton Pedwardine on a 100­year­old family farm, producing still and sparkling wines. See www.mayfieldwine.co.uk.

Stokes of Lincoln, artisan coffee roastery at The Lawn, Lincoln and on the city’s High Street at High Bridge café. www.stokescoffee.com.

LINCOLNSHIRE PRIDE’S BEST DRINKS PRODUCER 2025 Tipplemill London Dry Gin, dry gin with locally­milled wheat, juniper and bittersweet citrus and elderflower. See www.tipplemill.com.

STICKY SPICED CHICKEN WITH BOMBAY POTATO HASH

SERVES 2

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 120g/4¼oz each) 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds Salt and black pepper

For the marinade: 1 tbsp mango chutney, 1 heaped tbsp thick Greek yogurt (0% or full­fat), Juice of ½ lemon, 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ tsp garlic granules) 1 tsp mild curry powder

For the mint raita: 150g (⅔ cup) thick Greek yogurt (0% or full­fat) ¼ cucumber, deseeded and diced, 1 tsp garlic granules Juice of ½ lemon, 1 tbsp mint leaves, chopped

For the bombay potato and pepper hash: 300g (10½oz) potatoes, cut into small dice (skins on), 1 tsp olive oil, ½ red onion, finely sliced 1 red (bell) pepper, de­seeded and diced 1 tsp mild curry powder, ½ tsp ground turmeric. Handful of coriander (cilantro), chopped, plus extra to serve.

n Mix the marinade ingredients with a pinch each of salt and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken, coat well and set aside for 5 minutes (or marinate longer if you have time).

n Heat a non­stick frying pan over a medium heat and cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Set aside to rest, then slice.

n Mix the raita ingredients together in a bowl with a pinch of salt.

n For the potato hash, place the diced potatoes in a microwavesafe bowl, cover, and microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender.

n Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, then add the potatoes, onion and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Sprinkle over the curry powder, turmeric and some salt and pepper, tossing for another minute until fragrant. Stir through the chopped coriander.

n Spoon the raita onto plates, top with the potato hash, layer over the sliced mango chicken and scatter with pomegranate seeds and coriander before serving.

HONEY AND GREEK YOGURT BASQUE CHEESECAKE

ON SALE NOW SO GOOD EXPRESS Quick, nutritious food for a busy life by Emily English, Published by Seven Dials, £25. Photography by Clare Winfield.

SERVES 8

PREP: 5 MINUTES COOK 30 MINUTES (OR UNTIL GOLDEN AND SET)

500g (generous 2 cups/1lb 2oz) light cream cheese

200g (scant 1 cup/7oz) Greek yogurt (0% or full­fat) 3 large eggs, 75g (3½ tbsp) honey, plus extra to serve 2 tbsp plain (all­purpose) flour 1 tsp vanilla extract Fresh berries, to serve

n A lighter Basque­style cheesecake that swaps some cream cheese for Greek yogurt, keeping it creamy but higher in protein. Straining the batter before baking ensures the texture is extra smooth.

n Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C (400°F) Gas 6. Line a 20cm (8 inch) springform cake tin (pan) with baking parchment, letting it overhang the sides.

n Blitz all ingredients (except the berries) together in a blender until smooth, then strain through a sieve (strainer) into a jug.

n Pour into the lined tin and bake for 30 minutes or until golden and set, with a slight jiggle. Cool before slicing and topping with berries and extra honey.

The Sunshine Gin from Capri

Gin Mare Capri, £44, 70cl, 42.7%, www.ginmare.com.

Gin Mare Capri is a Mediterranean gin inspired by Capri, combining juniper with lemon, bergamot and grapefruit alongside basil and rosemary notes. It is crisp, aromatic and refreshing over ice with premium tonic and citrus. Perfect for July, it captures long summer evenings and relaxed entertaining, bringing coastal Italy home.

WINE OF THE MONTH

Wine & Spirits

A curated selection of Italian­inspired wines, refreshing non­alcoholic serves and elegant summer drinks chosen to elevate long warm evenings, relaxed entertaining and seasonal living for stylish garden gatherings...

Three Italian Wines For Summer Dining

Pieropan Soave Classico, white peach and almond elegant, blossom notes, £18.50, 75cl, 12% ABV, www.pieropan.it.

Benanti Etna Bianco, lemon zest and volcanic minerality, beautifully fresh with depth, £24.95, 75cl, 12.5% ABV, www.benanti.it.

Fontodi Chianti Classico, dark cherry and violet notes, refined tannins and spice, £28, 75cl, 14% ABV, www.fontodi.com.

Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2023, £195, 75cl, 14.5%, www.ornellaia.com.

The flagship wine from the legendary Bolgheri estate, crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It’s deeply structured yet refined, with layers of black cherry, cassis, tobacco and graphite, supported by polished tannins. Elegant, powerful and unmistakably Tuscan in character, with the warmth of Bolgheri vineyards in every glass.

ELDERFLOWER FIZZ SPRITZ

Crodino Non Alcoholic Aperitivo, £10, 10x175ml, 0%, www.crodino.com

Crodino is a classic Italian non­alcoholic aperitivo with a gently bitter, citrus­led profile layered with herbal complexity and a subtle sweetness. Served over ice with a slice of orange, it delivers a sophisticated pre­dinner ritual without alcohol. Enjoy chilled as a spritz­style serve, offering depth, refreshment and a distinctly continental sense of occasion for summer gatherings.

Our featured wines are available from local independent wine merchants, supermarkets and online, prices are RRP and may

LINCOLNSHIRE’S

NEW HIGH SHERIFF

For more than 1,000 years, the role of High Sheriff has existed at the heart of county life. Once responsible for collecting taxes and maintaining law and order on behalf of the Crown, the office today has evolved into something rather different: a role dedicated to supporting the justice system, emergency services, charities and communities across the county.

Lincolnshire’s new High Sheriff, Sue Liburd, brings to the office an extraordinary breadth of experience spanning healthcare, the armed forces, humanitarian work, education and business leadership. Yet despite a career that has taken her around the world and into some of society’s most challenging environments, her story begins here in Lincolnshire.

Sue first arrived in the county in 1972 when her father, serving in the RAF, was posted to Grantham. Following his death while still in service, her mother made the decision to remain in Lincolnshire.

“Lincolnshire’s been home since 1972,” says Sue. “I went to school here and, like many young people, once I’d finished my A-levels I wanted to get away, explore and build a career. But home was always here.”

That career began in nursing. Sue trained first as a general nurse in Portsmouth before moving into mental health nursing in Exeter during the mid-1980s, at a time when Britain’s approach to psychiatric care was undergoing profound change.

Words: Rob Davis.

“I wanted to be at the cutting edge of where mental health was going,” she says. “At the time there was a huge shift away from institutionalisation and towards care in the community.”

Working in Exeter, one of the UK’s pilot areas for the new approach, Sue witnessed first hand the changing understanding of mental health care and the importance of supporting people within their communities rather than isolating them in large psychiatric institutions.

“It was a hugely important period,” she says. “We recognised that people lived better, fuller lives when they remained connected to family and community, but it required investment and support.”

Following further training in midwifery in Southampton, Sue made what many would regard as an unexpected leap into the Army as a nursing officer. Growing up in what she describes as a “tri service family”, with her father in the RAF and her brother serving in the Navy, perhaps military life was never too far away.

“I thought if I was going to join the armed forces, I’d do something different and join the Army,” she says with a smile.

Far from limiting her opportunities, military life expanded them dramatically. Sue’s work soon moved far beyond nursing alone and into leadership, logistics and organisational management.

“The nature of being in the Army is that where you start isn’t necessarily where you finish,” she explains. “You get enormous responsibility very early. There’s a culture of developing people and recognising talent.”

One of her most significant experiences came during the Gulf War era, when she became involved in the closure and relocation of military medical facilities in Germany while ensuring services continued uninterrupted during a period of active conflict.

“You had hospitals to close, new facilities to open, staff being deployed overseas, families needing welfare support and services that still had to function every day,” she says.

“It taught me project management, leadership and how to handle large-scale change.” At the same time, Sue was also working in the emerging field of psychological trauma and post traumatic stress disorder.”

“It’s always been about people and community. How do you help people thrive? How do you support organisations and communities to become healthier, fairer and stronger?”

“During the late 1980s and early 1990s, understanding of PTSD was still in its infancy.

“We recognised people were experiencing psychological trauma, but PTSD as a recognised condition was still relatively new,” says Sue. “I genuinely believe I’ve seen a phenomenal change in how society understands mental health during my lifetime.”

Her work in trauma support continued after leaving the Army when she joined the British Red Cross in London. There she helped develop systems to support aid workers and volunteers exposed to humanitarian crises around the world, including the aftermath of the genocide in Rwanda.

“We were seeing aid workers exposed to horrific situations and recognising the psychological toll that could take,” she explains. “The work was about ensuring people themselves were properly supported.”

From there, Sue’s career evolved once again, taking her into the charitable sector, social housing and eventually corporate transformation consultancy. Working with organisations including the Peabody Trust, she became involved in innovative projects designed to improve lives through employment, housing and community support. One initiative combined social housing with local retail spaces, helping vulnerable people secure accommodation, employment and stability simultaneously.

“You can transform lives when you create structure, purpose and safe communities,” says Sue. “And importantly, you create change not just for one generation, but for the next as well.”

Her later work in organisational change consultancy saw Sue advising businesses, public bodies and major organisations on cultural transformation and large-scale restructuring. Today she continues that work through her own consultancy business, Sage Blue, while also completing a PhD at the University of Lincoln focused on constructive disruption within large organisations. Despite her varied career, Sue sees a clear thread connecting every chapter. “It’s always been about people and community,” she says.

“How do you help people thrive? How do you support organisations and communities to become healthier, fairer and stronger?”

Returning permanently to Lincolnshire in 2009 following the death of her mother, Sue says she rediscovered everything she loved about the county.

“I truly love this county,” she says. “Lincolnshire has incredible diversity. We have coastline, countryside, market towns, industry, villages and the city. There’s a real richness to it.”

She also believes Lincolnshire’s sense of community remains one of its greatest strengths. “People still speak to each other here,” she says. “There’s still that sense of connection and community spirit.”

That commitment to community service eventually led Sue towards the role of High Sheriff, although the appointment process itself remains steeped in secrecy and tradition. Potential candidates are identified years in advance by an independent nominations committee before ultimately being approved by the monarch through the ancient ‘pricking’ ceremony.

“You’re selected because people believe you care about the county and will serve for the right reasons,” Sue explains. “It’s entirely voluntary and self-funded. It’s not something people do for personal gain.”

Today the role centres around supporting Lincolnshire’s police, courts, prisons, probation service, emergency services and the many charities working across the county to prevent crime and strengthen communities.

“It’s about visibility, encouragement and support,” says Sue. “The voluntary sector and our public services do extraordinary work and often don’t receive the recognition they deserve.”

For Sue, the role represents the culmination of decades spent working across health, justice, education, business and community life.

“There’s an old idea that if you live within a community, you should give something back to it,” she says. “That’s always been important to me.” And after a lifetime spent helping others navigate challenge, change and uncertainty, Lincolnshire’s High Sheriff seems perfectly placed to continue doing exactly that.

Sue Liburd is Lincolnshire’s High Sheriff for 2026/2027.

The Guide

Ruby Wax

Appearing in Lincoln this month, Ruby admits that she’s not as well as she thought she was.

Live music and theatre, in and around Lincolnshire in July.

Countryside fun at the Heckington Show and Revesby Country Fair.

New releases reaching cinemas and bookshops across Lincolnshire this month.

Sharp, funny and deeply honest, Ruby Wax brings her trademark wit to Lincoln this month, reflecting on fame, burnout, and why living well is...

All in the

Mind

Laughter is supposed to be the best medicine, but when modern life drowns out the guffaws, replacing them with the sound of self-doubt, anxiety or burnout, it’s time to make a concerted effort to discriminate between what you listen to and what you ignore.

It’s easier said than done, though, which is why mindfulness, or rather mindfitness, to use Ruby Wax’s preferred term, is such a worthwhile habit to foster. This month Ruby appears alongside her good friend and producer Clive Tulloh at Lincoln’s New Theatre Royal keen to bring her provocative sense of humour and warmth to a live audience.

You’ll know Ruby for her comedy, but long before she became a comedian, performer and author, her first love was psychology... an interest to which, she says, she was always keen to return.

Latterly, Ruby has become known as a mental health advocate, recognising the need for

better recognition and support for depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions following her own experience with depression and a severe mental health breakdown in 2022. Ruby says her interest in psychology began long before fame arrived.

“I went to Berkeley when I was eighteen and I was studying psychology. So that was my first thing. Then I decided to go visit Europe for the summer and got into drama school and television.”

“I kept thinking I would return to university when I finished with all this. I did not think it would be a career. I didn’t know what I was going to be or do, but I knew I was going to be involved in psychology somehow.”

That fascination was not abstract or academic; it came from trying to make sense of her own childhood and family life. Her parents were Austrian Jews who escaped Europe in the 1930s and Ruby was a legacy of their own trauma, growing up in a high-stress home.

Her experiences are detailed in the more autobiographical of her books, How Do You Want Me published in 2002, although all of her books have consistent elements of biography, as it was her own experiences as a child that led her to take an interest in why people behave as they do.

“It was early childhood that drove me to psychology. You want to figure out your own mind. I was trying to figure out who was crazy, me or my parents. So I thought if I studied psychology I would figure it out.”

Ruby’s comedy was never merely about getting laughs. It was also about exposing the absurdity, insecurity and fragility hidden beneath carefully constructed public personas, puncturing egos… if you want a barometer of her ability to hone in on which egos need such a prescription, and her efficacy at delivering same, Donald Trump was interviewed by Ruby around the turn of the millennium, and is said to have hated her so much that he threw her off his private jet. She, in turn, described his ambitions toward the presidency as ‘comedic.’ If only we’d listened.

Ruby continued her work as an interviewer, speaking to public figures from O.J. Simpson to Imelda Marcos and Pamela Anderson. She even interviewed Sarah Duchess of York in 1997, attracting over 14m viewers and gaining a nomination for a BAFTA award. Her role as a writer and comedian also led to her work as Script Editor for Absolutely Fabulous alongside Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley across the series’ 39 episodes.

In between her career as a comedian and a writer, Ruby had also continued her psychology studies and began teaching business communication in the public and private sectors for clients like Deutsche Bank and the Home Office, taking on the role of Chancellor at the University of Southampton and achieving a master’s degree in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy from Kellogg College Oxford and a postgraduate certificate in psychotherapy and counselling from Regent’s University London.

“We all have an ongoing obligation to yourself to look after our mental health as best we can, even into adulthood...”

In 2016 she published the first of seven books, A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled, and she still lectures in the subject at Bangor University, for which she was awarded an honorary degree in 2022.

Ruby’s experience of mental health awareness is not just academic, but experiential. She has spoken openly about depression and mental illness for many years and she has spent time receiving psychiatric treatment and has written frankly about periods of severe struggle. She remains keen to speak publicly about experiences many people still hide.

“There is no off switch in the brain. We are always in fight or flight mode. What I teach people is how to find the off switch before they tip over. We don’t learn that. In fact we learn from an early age how to over-burden ourselves mentally. We are permanently connected, constantly distracted and endlessly comparing ourselves with each other.”

“We’re always in a state of competing with people we have never even met. We are always wanting something. Brilliant people are not just taking our money anymore, they are taking our attention. That is your most precious commodity.”

For Ruby, mindfulness as a concept can be over-applied, packed up and sold as scented candles or mindful colouring books for adults, something vaguely spiritual. But at its core, it’s practical, disciplined and grounded in neuroscience.

“I teach people how to regulate stress and become more aware. If your brain is like a wild horse, it is learning to say whoa and tame it a little so you can become the driver.”

“Mindfitness gives you the ability to pause before you react. You check your mental habits and your mental state. You take a little internal weather report before deciding how to respond.”

Ruby speaks particularly passionately about the pressure placed upon younger generations. “In the old days there was a script. You knew what was expected of you. Now nobody knows anything. Nobody knows how to date, how to be married, how to be a parent. We are all trying to figure it out for ourselves.”

“They are learning subjects that might not even exist when they are adults. There is just too much information now. Too much pressure. Parents really have to understand how young minds work because children absorb your habits.”

Ruby knows what it means to struggle internally whilst trying to maintain an outward performance. She knows what it feels like to appear successful whilst privately fighting exhaustion or despair. Even now, despite decades of experience, she says managing her own mind remains a daily discipline.

During the course of her writing, Ruby has spoken with Buddhist monks, and neuroscientists, tried Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and has worked with

organisations providing help and support for mental health from Mind to Rethink Mental Illness to the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) to Sane and Hub of Hope. But she also champions meditation and mindfulness, advocating self-care too.

“It’s also an ongoing commitment to yourself to look after your mental health as best you can, even into adulthood,” says Ruby. “I don’t claim to have mastered life or solved anxiety. But I can offer something far more useful, which is permission to be imperfect.”

“Mindfulness has to be rooted in selfcompassion. You are not your thoughts. Whatever happened to you is not necessarily your fault. Sometimes it is evolution, genetics or the way your brain works. You learn to forgive yourself.”

“I still have to meditate every day because my mind is unruly like everybody else’s. Otherwise I would just keep ruminating until I burn out. You are dealing with competition, ageing, needing to be funny, trying to make sense of everything. Mindfitness allows you to reset, so you can take on the next day.”

Ruby’s most recent book was I’m Not as Well as I Thought I Was, and details her breakdown in 2022. “Checking into a mental clinic wasn't exactly on my radar in 2022. Writing about it wasn't either. But that’s what happened,” she says. “I begin the book trying to find meaning by going on various, lifechanging journeys, I ended up in a mental clinic; obviously things didn't work out the way I expected. The book tells the story of what happened after a mental car crash.”

“I’m not a fiction writer so I couldn’t fake the experience or the outcome. The truth is I'm not as well as I thought I was. And still today trying to stay sane in a completely chaotic world makes life incredibly difficult, so for others who are confronting unanticipated, or anticipated, mental health struggles of their own, I hoped my words might provide reassurance and guidance, and that was what motivated me to write the book.”

In addition to her book and her upcoming 34-date live tour, Ruby also provides an online Six Week Mindfulness Guide for Survival, and mental health wellness retreats.

The latter takes place at locations including Wild Minds retreat in Somerset, and at Belcombe Court in Wiltshire. In addition, and perhaps most surprisingly, she also hosts day retreats from her home in Notting Hill, where visitors spend time with Ruby, eat a nourishing lunch and learn the mindfulness practices and cognitive tools necessary to benefit from the principles of mindfulness.

I put it to her that your own home is a very personal space to invite people into, to which she responds that the environment is an asset, as it feels more intimate, and she likes being surrounded by people… she also reckons that she always wanted to live in a commune, so perhaps it’s the next best thing.

Meanwhile her appearance in Lincoln this month has a thread of mindfulness running throughout, but remains a show grounded in comedy and warmth. “The tour is hilarious. It is comedy. Smart comedy. We show clips people have never seen before and tell the stories behind the stories. You get to see what fame really was and the price people paid for it. You really see who lasts and who gets caught up in their own image and burns out.”

Audiences expecting a sombre lecture on mental health should think again. What made Ruby a compelling interviewer was her ability to understand human behaviour and spot contradictions in the people sitting opposite her.

If laughter is the best medicine, there are few people better to give you a shot in the arm than Ruby. Serious and morose this is not… life-affirming and genuinely beneficial are where Ruby’s intentions remain, with help delivered in a way that’s very human.

“Expect laughter, honesty and perhaps a few useful lessons about how to survive the chaos of contemporary living without losing your sense of humour!”

n Train your mind daily: Just a few minutes of mindful breathing each day can improve focus and reduce stress. Treat mental fitness like physical exercise.

n Don’t believe every thought: Negative thoughts are not facts. Learn to notice anxious or critical thinking without letting it take over.

n Pause before reacting: When stressed, stop for a moment and take a breath. Creating a pause helps prevent emotional overreaction.

n Reduce mental clutter: Avoid constant scrolling, multitasking and overstimulation. Quiet moments help the brain recover and reset.

n Be kinder to yourself: Self­criticism increases anxiety. Speak to yourself with the same patience and understanding you’d offer a friend.

n Use humour: Ruby believes laughter helps break cycles of worry and puts problems into perspective, making life feel lighter and more manageable.

Ruby’s tour, Absolutely Famous, reaches Lincolnshire on Saturday 27th June, when she appears at Lincoln’s New Theatre Royal, £37/adult. Ruby’s books and tickets for the tour are available at www.rubywax.net. RUBY’S TIPS

July

What’s On

1st­25th July

Twelfth Night at Tolethorpe

One of the highlights of the region’s summer cultural calendar returns this month as the Stamford Shakespeare Company opens its 2026 season at beautiful Tolethorpe Hall. Set within glorious woodland and gardens just outside Stamford, 400­seat open­air theatre offers a uniquely atmospheric setting for an evening of drama, comedy and escapism. This year’s headline production is Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, a riotously funny tale of mistaken identity, romance and mischief, brought to life in the company’s spectacular covered outdoor auditorium. The season also includes Robert Louis Stevenson’s swashbuckling Treasure Island, promising high­seas adventure and family entertainment,

Clare Teal at Lincoln Cathedral.

3rd July

Ella & Friends

London Concertante’s heartfelt celebration of the First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald. Spanning nearly five decades of iconic music, this elegant cabaret­style performance brings her ingenious charm and translucent voice to life. There are also nods to some of the other jazz icons who shaped her era, including Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Sarah Vaughan.

Friday 3rd July, from 7.30pm, Lincoln Cathedral, book online at londonconcertante.com or call 01522 561 600.

4th July

Pulp’d v Blur2

alongside the hugely entertaining modern comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, Richard Bean’s fast­paced farce packed with confusion, chaos and comic timing.

Younger performers from Tolethorpe Youth Drama (TYD) will meanwhile stage George Orwell’s Animal Farm, continuing the company’s reputation for nurturing impressive young local talent.

Part of the enduring appeal of Tolethorpe is that it’s much more than simply a theatre visit.

Guests are welcome to bring their own picnics or The Fig Leaf restaurant offers pre­theatre dining and ready­made picnic options for those preferring a little indulgence before curtain­up. From 7pm, tickets £15/adult, £10/under 26s. Stamford Arts Centre, St Mary’s Street, PE9 2DL. Call 01780 763203 or see stamfordartscentre.com.

Atribute duo to 90s Britpop sensations Pulp and Blur presented at Lincoln’s Drill. Whether it’s Common People, Disco 2000 or Babies, Pulp’d bring a show full of high energy, with the look, sound and all the quirky moves of Jarvis Cocker. Meanwhile, Blur2 are the UK’s original, definitive and number one tribute to Blur, performing hits like Parklife, Boys & Girls and Country House. The Drill, Free School Lane, Lincoln. Call 01522 873894 www.lincolndrill.co.uk.

5th July

G4: Phantoms of the Popera

The UK’s classical crossover group, G4, returns to provide showtunes from well­known musicals from Les Mis, Phantom, Wicked, Jersey Boys, Hamilton, Jesus Christ Superstar, Greatest Showman, Rent, Miss Saigon, Lion King, Aspects of Love, We Will Rock You, The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, Rocky Horror Show and many more… Grimsby Auditorium,

Sunday 5th July, 7.30pm, call 0300 300 0035, or see grimsbyauditorium.org.uk.

11th­12th July

Woodhall Country Park 1940s Festival

Experience the spirit of the 1940s at Woodhall Country Park’s 1940s Festival — a wonderful celebration of wartime Britain, community spirit, and vintage charm. A full weekend of wartime nostalgia, music, and memories. Enjoy swing music and vintage entertainment, explore displays of military vehicles, classic cars, and authentic re­enactment camps, and experience the spirit of 1940s Britain. Visitors are encouraged to dress the part, and experience life on the home front.

Saturday 11th, July and Sunday 12th July, £6, see woodhallcountrypark.co.uk.

10th­12th July

Lincoln Jazz Festival 2026

Lincoln Cathedral provides a breathtaking backdrop this summer as the Lincoln Jazz Festival returns for another unforgettable weekend of live music in one of the country’s most spectacular historic settings. Taking place from 10th–12th July, the festival has quickly established itself as one of the region’s standout cultural events, combining world­class jazz performances with the extraordinary atmosphere of the cathedral’s magnificent medieval spaces. This year’s programme welcomes more than 70 musicians performing across a packed weekend featuring everything from contemporary jazz and swing to soul, blues and New Orleans­inspired performances. Award­winning vocalist Clare Teal returns as one of the festival’s headline

artists, while audiences can also enjoy appearances from celebrated guitarist Martin Taylor MBE, saxophonists Tim Garland and Paul Booth, pianists Jason Rebello and Alex Wilson, plus trombonist Dennis Rollins MBE, the festival’s artistic director.

TJ Johnson also brings his hugely popular Soulfood Supper performance to the weekend’s line­up.

Alongside ticketed evening concerts, the festival also includes free daytime performances, brass bands and emerging young talent performing throughout the cathedral grounds. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable summer experience, the Lincoln Jazz Festival promises a stylish and uplifting celebration of live music in the heart of the city.

Lincoln Cathedral, 10th-12th July, some events are charged, see www.lincolncathedral.com.

11th July Knights of Lincoln

Step back in time to when Lincoln Castle, was a prized fortress, and endured dramatic sieges in the 12th and 13th centuries! The second of which was most famously defended by the greatest knight there ever was, William Marshal!

Experience the sights and sounds of medieval combat as skilled knights and men­atarms demonstrate the training and discipline required for battle. Watch as they put their abilities to the test in thrilling tournament displays, both on foot and on horseback, competing for honour, glory, and the defence of the Castle. The event is included as part of the Castle Day ticket and free for annual pass holders to enjoy.

Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July, Lincoln Castle, see www.lincolncastle.com.

11th­12th July

The Belvoir Castle Flower and Garden Show

Returning on 11th and 12th July, Belvoir Castle once again hosts its annual Flower & Garden Show within the spectacular grounds of the historic estate. Overlooking the beautiful Vale of Belvoir, the much­loved event has become one of the highlights of the East Midlands’ summer calendar, attracting gardeners, plant lovers and families alike for a wonderfully relaxed weekend celebrating horticulture, creativity and outdoor living.

This year’s event promises stunning floral installations, imaginative show gardens and specialist plant exhibitors alongside artisan stalls, garden accessories and locally produced food and drink.

Gardening enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to hear from familiar television personalities including Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost and gardening expert David Domoney, both appearing across the weekend with talks, demonstrations and question­and­answer sessions.

The much­admired border competition will once again showcase creative planting schemes from emerging and established garden designers, while workshops and demonstrations offer practical inspiration to take home for gardens of every size.

Whether you’re a serious horticultural enthusiast or simply seeking a glorious day out against the backdrop of the Castle. You’ll enjoy a grand day out in a great setting.

Belvoir Castle, £13/adult, £4/child, from 9.30am, see www.belvoircastle.com.

11th July

The Battle Proms at Burghley House

One of the highlights of the summer season returns to the magnificent grounds of Burghley House this month as the Battle Proms Concert promises an unforgettable evening of music, fireworks and patriotic celebration. Set against the backdrop of the historic Elizabethan estate, the spectacular open­air event combines orchestral favourites, cavalry displays, Spitfire flypasts and dramatic cannon fire in true Proms tradition. Guests are encouraged to bring picnics, champagne and deckchairs to enjoy an atmospheric summer evening culminating in a firework finale set to classical music beneath the stars.

Tickets £56/adult, £23/junior, Burghley House PE9 3JY, see www.battleproms.com.

18th­19th July

Lincoln 1940s Weekend

Two days of vintage performances, activities and classic vehicle displays in Lincoln's historic Cathedral Quarter and across the city. See www.visitlincolnshire.com.

17th July

Back to the 80s

Get ready for a neon­soaked night of nostalgia as Back To The 80s arrives at Louth Playgoers Theatre on Friday 17th July.

Featuring a full live band and the Electric Dreams dancers, this high­energy tribute spectacular recreates more than 30 chart­topping stars from the decade of big hair and even bigger hits. Expect classics from Kim Wilde, Kate Bush, Wham!, Madonna, Bon Jovi, Erasure and Michael Jackson in a fastpaced party atmosphere where fancy dress is positively encouraged. Dig out the legwarmers, sequins and shoulder pads and prepare to dance the night away.

Tickets £22.64. Louth, LN11 0BX, call 01507 600350 or see louthriverheadtheatre.com.

19th July

Lincolnshire Classic Motor Show

Celebrate the very best of classic motoring at the Lincolnshire Classic Motor Show, a brand­new one­day event bringing together an incredible mix of vehicles, personalities, music, and live action. Classic cars, retro icons, commercial vehicles, and dedicated areas for motor car and motorcycle clubs. Lincolnshire Showground, 10am, £15/adv, £20/day, see www.lincolnshireclassic.co.uk.

25th July

Sculpture at Doddington Hall

The stunning walled gardens and romantic wild garden of Doddington Hall both provide the perfect setting for hundreds of works of art made by talented sculptors from across the UK and beyond.

Curators David Waghorne and Kate McGovern have carefully selected national and international sculptors to

complement each area of the garden and to provide an eclectic exhibition.

A large indoor gallery located in the Stable Yard will exhibit a captivating variety of smallerscale pieces. Almost every piece in the exhibition is for sale, an investment which will bring enjoyment to your home or garden for many years.

Sculpture at Doddington Hall runs until 6th September. Doddington Hall, call 01522 694308 or see www.doddingtonhall.com.

31st July

The Marriage of Figaro

Experience the magic of open­air opera on the Croquet Lawn at Doddington Hall, as Wild Arts present The Marriage of Figaro. Mozart’s comic opera of intrigue, secret lovers and clever disguises is a whirlwind of joyous music and sparkling theatrical mischief for the perfect summer treat.

Directed by international opera star Danielle de Niese, with a phenomenal cast and 10­player orchestra, get ready for an evening full of sparkling tunes, tangled romances, and razor­sharp wit.

It’s the wedding of the year but with mistaken identities, cheeky servants, and a Count with a wandering eye, the ‘happily ever after’ might take a little work!

Bursting with glorious melodies — from the fizzing overture to the heart­stopping beauty of ‘Dove sono’ and the jubilant finale — The Marriage of Figaro is Mozart at his most brilliant. It’s an irresistible blend of comedy and chaos, set to music that’s simply impossible not to love. Take a chair and a picnic, and prepare to be entertained and captivated.

Friday 31st July at Doddington Hall, LN6 4RU. Adult tickets £45, premium tickets £70. Gates open from 6pm, performance at 7pm. call 01522 694308 or see www.doddingtonhall.com.

SUMMER SHOWS ACROSS LINCOLNSHIRE

Saturday 4th July & Sunday 5th July

Winterton Show

A long­established agricultural celebration dating back to 1872, combining rural tradition with modern family entertainment. Held annually over the first weekend in July, the two­day event attracts more than 12,000 visitors to its expansive showground, where livestock competitions, equestrian classes and countryside pursuits sit alongside craft marquees and artisan food.

Vintage tractors and classic cars to dog shows, live music and thrilling main arena displays, including freestyle motocross and stunt performances.

£12/adults, £5/children, www.wintertonshow.co.uk.

Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July

Heckington Show

The Heckington Show is widely regarded as the largest village show in England, combining the charm of a traditional country gathering with the scale of a major agricultural event. Visitors can enjoy livestock competitions, horticulture, heritage displays and a lively main ring programme, alongside food, trade stands and family entertainment. The show gives strong emphasis on Lincolnshire’s rural heritage, with vintage machinery, equestrian classes, cookery competitions and the horticultural marquee.

The Saturday evening firework concert is a highlight, with 2026 welcoming a tribute to Elton John, promising a spectacular close to the day. £16/advance, £6/child www.heckingtonshow.org.uk.

Sunday

2nd August

Revesby Country Fair

Held annually in early August, this much­loved one­day event attracts thousands of visitors for a lively mix of countryside pursuits and family entertainment, with 200 trade stands too. From equestrian displays and traditional show jumping to dog agility, terrier racing and hands­on country sports, the fair blends heritage with interactive fun.

£16/adults, £5/children www.revesbycountryfair.co.uk.

Saturday 29th ­ Monday 31st August

Burghley Summer Fine Food Market

Artisan food stalls and street food vendors within Burghley House’s picturesque courtyard over the August Bank Holiday. 10am-4pm, free entry, see www.burghley.co.uk.

London Theatre

1st­25th July La Bohème

Puccini’s opera is staged at London’s Royal Opera House. Rodolfo, a penniless poet, meets Mimì, a seamstress, they fall instantly in love. Rodolfo introduces Mimì to his bohemian friends Marcello, Colline and Schaunard. The group heads to Café Momus, where Marcello reunites with his ex­girlfriend Musetta. Soon the happiness of the friends, and of budding romance, is threatened when Rodolfo learns that Mimì is gravely ill. Can the warmth of friendship, and of young love, sustain the group of bohemians through the hardships of a cold winter? Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Tickets £13-£280, Royal Opera House, London WC2E 9DD, 020 7304 4000, rbo.org.uk.

1st­30th July Warhorse

At the outbreak of the First World War, young Albert’s beloved horse Joey is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France. Too young to enlist, Albert refuses to forget him, embarking on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of wartime France, determined to bring Joey home. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, War Horse is a timeless story of love, courage and friendship, brought to life by astonishing life­sized horses from Handspring Puppets Following a sell­out national tour, the Tony Award–winning global sensation returns to the National Theatre.

Tickets £30-£110, National Theatre, SE1 9PX, 020 3989 5455, www.nationaltheatre.org.uk.

1st­30th July

Jesus Christ, Superstar

The award­winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar comes to the iconic London Palladium this summer. Starring Sam Ryder as Jesus, Tyrone Huntley as Judas and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Simon Russell Beale, Richard Armitage, Boy George, Layton Williams and Julian Clary sharing the role of King Herod. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and the iconic title number Superstar. Tickets from £40, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, 0333 400 3562, www.openairtheatre.com.

1st­31st July

The Guilty

Russell Tovey is troubled police officer Joe, stuck on the night shift, who takes a desperate 999 call from Emily. As he scrambles to decode fragmented clues from a woman in danger, a real­time thriller unfolds. In a night filled with unsettling twists, Joe has a mounting sense that nothing is quite as it seems.

Directed by Felix Barrett, The Guilty is by award­winning writer Chloë Moss, based on the films of Den Skyldige and The Guilty.

Tickets £32-£77, Donmar Warehouse, Erlham Street, WC2H 9LX 020 3282 3808, www.donmarwarehouse.com.

1st­31st July

1996: 30 Years On

Relive the 90s in all its iconic glory: music, fashion, football and the faces that made Cool Britannia cool.

Original costumes worn by the Spice Girls, previously unseen Oasis memorabilia, photography by Jill Furmanovsky and Derek Ridgers, and personal items from record producers and DJs Paul Oakenfold, Dave Pearce and Judge Jules are presented in a new exhibition marking thirty years of Cool Britannia. Author, broadcaster and former editor of The Sun Dominic Mohan curates a must­see show featuring stunning memorabilia from the 90s when London felt like the centre of the earth and music, football, dance culture, fashion, art, food, politics and the media spectacularly collided.

Free exhibition at the Barbican EC2Y 8DS, presented by the City of London, 020 7870 2500, www.barbican.org.uk.

1st­31st July

Star

Trek at 60

2026 marks 60 years since Star Trek first hit our screens. To celebrate, the British Science Museum has partnered with the franchise on a special exhibition of the iconic TV series and films.

Free, Science Museum, SW7 2DD, 0330 058 0058, www.sciencemuseum.org.uk.

1st­31st July

The Future of Food

A new, free exhibition at the British Science Museum about how food must change to protect the planet. How does our food today go from field to plate, and how will major advances in ecology and biotechnology change food in the future?

Free, Science Museum, SW7 2DD, 0330 058 0058, www.sciencemuseum.org.uk.

1st­31st July

David Attenborough

Produced by the awardwinning filmmakers behind many of Sir David’s TV programmes, this new 50­minute experience blends footage of the natural world with cutting­edge animation to create something truly special with a clear message. Natural History Museum, SW7, £25/adult, £12.50/child, 020 7942 5000, www.nhm.ac.uk

1st­31st July

Few productions in the West End have achieved the enduring success of Wicked, the spectacular musical that continues to captivate audiences at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre. Now one of the capital’s longest running shows, the production tells the untold story of the witches of Oz long before Dorothy arrived along the Yellow Brick Road. Based on Gregory Maguire’s acclaimed novel, the story follows the unlikely friendship between the intelligent and misunderstood Elphaba and the glamorous and ambitious Glinda. As their lives take dramatically different paths, audiences discover how one became known as the Wicked Witch of the West while the other became Glinda the Good. With dazzling staging, breathtaking costumes and a score packed with unforgettable songs including Defying Gravity and Popular, Wicked combines humour, emotion and spectacle in equal measure. The Apollo Victoria Theatre provides the perfect setting for this magical production, placing theatre lovers in the heart of London’s vibrant West End. Whether discovering Oz for the first time or returning for another visit, Wicked remains an unmissable theatrical experience. Tickets from £27, Apollo Victoria Theatre, SW1V 1LG, www.theapollovictoria.com.

2nd­31st July

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

One of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies returns to London this summer as A Midsummer Night’s Dream takes to the stage at Shakespeare’s Globe. Performed beneath the open sky on the banks of the Thames, this joyful new production brings romance, mischief and magic to life in one of the capital’s most atmospheric theatres.

Directed by Emily Lim, the production combines vibrant staging with the unique energy of outdoor theatre, creating an unforgettable evening, even for a lifelong Shakespeare fan.

Tickets £28-£88, Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT, 020 7401 9919, www.shakespearesglobe.com.

5th July

Duran Duran

Duran Duran return to London this summer with a spectacular headline performance at Hyde Park’s Great Oak Stage as part of the BST Hyde Park concert series. One of Britain’s most successful and enduring bands, the group promise an unforgettable evening packed with classic hits, dazzling visuals and the energy that has defined their career for more than four decades. Fans can look forward to favourites including Rio, Hungry Like the Wolf, Girls on Film and Ordinary World as Simon Le Bon and the band take to one of the capital’s most iconic outdoor stages. World­class music and the atmosphere of a summer festival in central London.

Tickets from £79, Hyde Park, W2 2UH, 0300 061 2000, www.bst-hydepark.com.

10th­11th July

Ludovico Einaudi

Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi will bring his atmospheric and deeply emotive music to London’s O2 Arena this month, in what promises to be one of the summer’s most memorable live performances. Marking his biggest ever UK show, the concerts will feature Einaudi performing alongside his full band, making these his only UK ensemble appearances of the year.

A

Over the past 30 years, Einaudi has become the world’s most celebrated contemporary classical composer, captivating audiences with music that blends minimalist piano melodies with cinematic scope and emotion. His compositions have become familiar to millions through acclaimed films including This Is England, Nomadland, Mommy and The Father, while artists as diverse as Iggy Pop, Nicki Minaj and Ellie Goulding have expressed admiration for his work. Renowned for creating unforgettable live experiences, Einaudi has performed everywhere from Arctic Ocean stages to sold­out residencies at the Royal Albert Hall, the Barbican and Sydney Opera House. His music’s unique ability to feel both intimate and epic has earned him a devoted global following. Opening the evening will be celebrated organist and broadcaster Anna Lapwood MBE, Organist of London’s Royal Albert Hall and one of classical music’s most exciting modern ambassadors. Together, the performances promise an extraordinary evening of powerful, immersive music.

See www.theo2.co.uk.

9th­31st July

Buckingham Palace Annual Summer Opening

Visitors to London this summer can enjoy a rare opportunity to step inside Buckingham Palace as the State Rooms open to the public from July. The annual summer opening allows guests to explore the magnificent interiors used for official royal occasions and state entertaining. Highlights include the Throne Room, White Drawing Room and the impressive Picture Gallery featuring works from the Royal Collection. Set within the heart of the capital, the experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the history, ceremony and splendour of the British monarchy.

Tickets £33/adults, £21.50/age 18-24, £16.50/child, 0303 123 7300 or see www.rct.uk.

17th July First Night of the Proms

Dalia Stasevska and massed BBC forces launch the 2026 season with an American accent. Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man; Gershwin’s ‘rhapsodic ballet’ An American in Paris and Ravel’s bluesy Concerto in G major. Tickets £28.52 to £89.72, Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP, 020 7589 8212 or see www.royalalberthall.com.

17th­26th July

Swan Lake

One of the world’s most celebrated ballets returns to London this season as Swan Lake is performed at the magnificent London Coliseum. Presented by English National Ballet, this timeless production brings together breathtaking choreography, sumptuous costumes and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score in a truly spectacular

evening of classical dance.

Telling the tragic story of Prince Siegfried and the enchanted Swan Queen Odette, Swan Lake remains one of the most romantic and dramatic works ever created for the stage. Audiences can expect graceful performances, dazzling sets and the iconic Dance of the Little Swans.

Tickets from £25, London Coliseum, WC2N 4ES, call 020 7845 9300, www.londoncoliseum.org.

25th­31st July

Cats: The Musical

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical Cats returns to London this summer in a spectacular new production at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Set beneath the stars in one of the capital’s most beautiful outdoor venues, the award­winning show promises an unforgettable theatrical experience combining music, dance and striking visual storytelling.

Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the musical follows the Jellicle cats as they gather for their annual ball where one special feline will be chosen to begin a new life. Audiences can expect beloved songs including Memory alongside breathtaking choreography and imaginative costumes that have made Cats one of the world’s most successful musicals.

The unique setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre adds an extra sense of magic to the production, with performances unfolding against the backdrop of London’s summer evenings. Atmospheric, energetic and filled with emotion, Cats remains a timeless celebration of individuality and imagination. Whether revisiting a classic or seeing it for the first time, this iconic musical is one of the season’s most exciting theatre events.

Tickets from £15, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, 0333 400 3562, www.openairtheatre.com.

July Cinema Releases

The Odyssey (US, 12A)

Christopher Nolan takes on one of literature’s greatest adventures with The Odyssey, a retelling of Homer’s ancient epic. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, the Greek king trying to return home after the Trojan War, with a huge cast including Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron. Expect myth, danger, battles, monsters, gods and large­scale filmmaking Nolan is known for. An ancient story meets hi­tech cinematography and the result is, er... epic.

Ish (UK, TBC)

Ish is a powerful British coming­of­age drama from artist and filmmaker Imran Perretta. The film follows twelve­year­old best friends Ish and Maram as their close bond begins fracturing after a traumatic police stop­and­search incident. Against a backdrop of racial profiling, grief and growing social tension, the boys struggle to understand friendship, identity and the pressures of masculinity. Shot in striking black and white, the film is an intimate portrait of modern British adolescence and prejudice.

The Invite (US, 15)

Joe and Angela are on thin ice, and tonight might be when it all falls apart. Unfortunately, their upstairs neighbours are about to arrive for dinner, and everything that can go wrong goes worse. Olivia Wilde’s scenes from a marriage are suitably raw and revealing, but also compassionate, deeply human, and incredibly funny. Two couples endure awkward small talk, grievances, and insecurities, in a tense production, shot chronologically on 35mm, bringing a clever, claustrophobic aesthetic to the drama.

Birds of War (UK, TBC)

Birds of War is a documentary by Janay Boulos and Abd Alkader Habak, following a London­based Lebanese journalist and a Syrian activist­cameraman whose professional connection becomes a love story shaped by conflict. Told through 13 years of personal archives, the film moves between revolution, war and exile, beginning with Boulos seeking footage from Aleppo during the Syrian civil war. Intimate, urgent and deeply human, it explores love, journalism, displacement and the moral weight of bearing witness.

500 Miles (Ireland, 12A)

Bill Nighy stars in 500 Miles, a warm and uplifting road movie following two young brothers who flee their troubled home in Yorkshire and set out on an unforgettable journey to Ireland’s wild west coast. Hoping to reunite with their estranged grandfather, the boys encounter unexpected adventures along the way. Emotional, funny and beautifully filmed, the movie blends family drama with heartfelt charm, celebrating resilience, hope and the power of reconnecting with those we love.

Life Support (UK, TBC)

A harrowing British­Palestinian documentary examining the collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system during the ongoing conflict. Directed by Daniele Rugo, the film follows international doctors entering Gaza to work inside overwhelmed hospitals, documenting bombed wards, dwindling medical supplies and the emotional toll on both staff and civilians. Combining first­hand testimony with footage captured by Palestinian journalists, the documentary offers an unflinching portrait of survival.

Rosebush Pruning (US, 18)

Karim Aïnouz directs this satirical thriller about an obscenely wealthy American family hiding dark secrets inside a luxurious Catalonian villa. Inspired by Marco Bellocchio’s Fists in the Pocket, Rosebush Pruning follows siblings Jack, Ed, Anna and Robert as grief, jealousy and twisted relationships begin tearing their privileged world apart after Jack introduces his girlfriend to the household. The film blends black comedy, psychological drama and surreal excess into family dysfunction.

My Father’s Island (Fr, 15)

My Father’s Island is an atmospheric psychological drama set amid the isolated beauty of Norway’s fjords. Following a fractured relationship with his father, teenager Roy travels to a remote island where the pair attempt to reconnect away from modern life. But growing tension, loneliness and emotional instability soon turn their retreat into something darker. Adapted from David Vann’s acclaimed novel Sukkwan Island, the film combines stark Nordic landscapes with an intense exploration of masculinity and grief.

Never Had a Chance (UK, 18)

Set within West London’s Punjabi community, Never Had a Chance is a gritty British drama from director Jazz Bhalla. Ravi dreams of escaping his troubled past and building a better future after meeting Sukhi, but the pull of old loyalties proves difficult to resist. Drawn back into street crime by his reckless best friend Jay, Ravi finds himself spiralling into moral compromise. Starring Amar Chaggar and Tina Sharma, the film explores identity, friendship and the struggle to break free from circumstance.

Alpha (India, TBC)

Alia Bhatt leads the cast of Alpha, an explosive new Indian action thriller set within the hugely popular YRF Spy Universe. Co­starring Sharvari, Bobby Deol and Anil Kapoor, the film follows two elite female agents drawn into a dangerous mission against a ruthless enemy. Packed with stylish action sequences, suspense and high­stakes drama, Alpha promises fast­paced entertainment and marks a bold new chapter for Bollywood’s growing appetite for big­screen spy adventures.

Spider­Man (US, TBC)

Spider­Man:Brand New Day sees Tom Holland return as Peter Parker for the latest chapter in Marvel’s hugely successful superhero series. Following the dramatic events of No Way Home, Peter faces a fresh start as he balances ordinary life with the demands of being New York’s friendly neighbourhood Spider­Man. With new villains emerging and old dangers resurfacing, the film promises spectacular action, emotional depth and plenty of humour, delivering another thrilling adventure for Marvel fans.

And for the family...

Looking to entertain the children or grandchildren over the holidays? Cinema audiences are spoilt for choice this season, with Disney’s eagerly awaited Moana returning for another ocean adventure alongside the ever­popular yellow troublemakers in Minions & Monsters. Meanwhile, Pixar reunites Woody, Buzz and the gang for Toy Story 5, promising fresh laughs and heartfelt moments for all ages. With colourful animation there’s plenty to enjoy on the big screen this summer.

JULY BOOK RELEASES

Running On Air

Sophie Raworth

The inspiring story of how one of Britain's best­known broadcasters found her feet through running. At the age of 40, BBC broadcaster Sophie Raworth assumed she was too old to start running. She had done no exercise for decades. But after seeing a friend do the London Marathon, Sophie decided to give it a go.

Her first attempt was a disaster. But she picked herself up and kept going on a path that would take her to races all over the world. 256 pages, hardback, £18.

JULY’S MUSIC PICK

How to Fly

Simon Barnes

Flight fascinates us. We thrill to birds, we adore butterflies, we're baffled by bats and we can hardly believe in pterodactyls. We worship angels and we compare love, religious ecstasy and artistic achievement to flight. Bestselling writer Simon Barnes brings together all aspects of aerial life –evolution, technology, mythology, religion, nature and imagination – in a celebration of the wonders of flight. Taking in the thoughts of great poets, musicians and athletes in the process.

368 pages, hardback, £20.

Pope Leo XIV

Elise Ann Allen

Who is Robert Prevost, the man who is now Leo XIV?

What personal traits led him to be chosen as pontiff at a time when the Catholic Church was debating whether to continue the legacy of Francis I or roll back the reforms advanced by him?

How did he rise as pope in an overwhelmingly majority vote and what could it mean?

Elise Ann Allen, specialising in Vatican news, outlines a detailed and intimate profile of the new pope, from childhood to his role as pontiff

336 pages, hardback, £25.

The Boys of Dungeon Lane Paul McCartney

Look out... old Mac he is back, with his first new solo album to be released in over five years.

The Boys of Dungeon Lane is not only the 18th solo album to be released by Paul McCartney; it is a collection of rare and revealing glimpses into memories neverbefore shared from one of the most culturally significant figures of our time.

The album is his most introspective album to date, taking the listener back to where it all began. These extraordinary new songs find Paul writing with rare openness about his childhood in post­war Liverpool, and early adventures shared with George Harrison and John Lennon long before the world had ever heard of Beatlemania. £12.99/CD, £29.99/vinyl.

Signals

Dr Saira Hameed

Hormones control our milestone moments as well as our day­to­day emotions and behaviour. Dr Saira Hameed is a leading endocrinologist and here, she takes us on a journey inside our bodies to reveal the spectacular endocrine life force at work.

Combining patient histories, with stories of medical breakthroughs and addressing common misconceptions, this is a vital book for anyone who wants to understand their health and appreciate the wonder that to be human is to be hormonal.

336 pages, hardback, £20.

- Tom and Gwen

Travel far, from where you are. Fly from Humberside Airport to over 160 worldwide destinations via Amsterdam. Find out more at klm.co.uk

The Henley Royal Regatta

Combining world-class rowing with timeless social tradition, Henley Royal Regatta attracts Olympic athletes, elite crews and thousands of spectators for six days of competition, and quintessential English style

Each summer the quiet town of Henley-on-Thames becomes the setting for one of Britain’s most recognisable sporting occasions. Henley Royal Regatta combines elite competition, rich tradition and an unmistakably English sense of occasion, drawing competitors and spectators from across the world to the banks of the River Thames.

For six days the river is transformed into a theatre of sporting drama, where Olympic champions race alongside students, club crews and rising young athletes. Yet Henley is far more than a rowing event. It is also a social institution, famed for riverside hospitality, elegant dress codes, champagne picnics and the timeless charm of an English summer.

A Regatta with Victorian Roots

The origins of Henley Royal Regatta date back to 1839 when the Mayor and people of Henley decided to stage a rowing event designed to attract visitors to the town and promote interest in the sport. The first regatta was a modest affair lasting just a single day and featuring only a handful of races.

What began as a local sporting attraction soon flourished during the Victorian era, helped by the growing popularity of rowing among schools, universities and private clubs. As rail travel improved and Britain’s middle and upper classes embraced organised sport, Henley rapidly established itself as the country’s leading rowing event.

Royal approval followed soon afterwards. Prince Albert became patron in 1851 and, six years later, Queen Victoria granted the regatta official Royal status. From that moment it became known as Henley Royal Regatta, a title that cemented its prestige and ensured its place at the heart of British sporting society.

Over subsequent decades the regatta absorbed and replaced several smaller rowing meetings that had taken place along the Thames. By the end of the nineteenth century it had developed into an international event, attracting crews not only from Britain but from Europe, the United States, Australia and New Zealand. Today Henley remains one of the most coveted prizes in rowing, with victories carrying enormous prestige throughout the sport.

From Gentlemen Amateurs to Olympic Champions

For much of its history Henley reflected the traditions of Victorian sporting society and competition was dominated exclusively by men. Women first raced at the regatta in 1975 when a small number of exhibition events were introduced.

Over time female competitors became increasingly integrated into the programme and by the 1990s women’s races officially formed part of the regatta itself. Since then women’s rowing has grown dramatically, with elite international crews now among the highlights of finals weekend.

Modern Henley welcomes competitors across a broad range of categories and standards. Amateur club rowers line up alongside Olympic medallists, university crews and national teams, all competing on the same historic stretch of river. Each year around 4,000 athletes, coaches and support staff descend upon Henley, representing hundreds of rowing clubs, schools and institutions from around the globe.

Six Days of Intense Racing

Henley Royal Regatta traditionally begins on the Tuesday following the final week of June and concludes on the first Sunday in July. More than 400 races take place during the week, in a fiercely competitive knockout format. The simplicity of the structure adds to the tension. Lose once and a crew is eliminated immediately. Win and they progress through the rounds towards the coveted finals.

Events are divided according to both boat class and standard of competition. There are races for single sculls, pairs, fours and eights, together with categories for junior athletes, students and club crews.

Among the regatta’s most famous trophies are the Grand Challenge Cup for men’s eights, the Ladies’ Challenge Plate, the Thames Challenge Cup and the Remenham Challenge Cup for women’s eights. Unlike many modern sporting events there is no prize money at stake... just the honour of victory!

For elite rowers, winning at Henley often ranks alongside success at the World Championships or Olympic Games.

The Famous Henley Reach

THE HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA

Central to the regatta’s appeal is its historic course along the Henley Reach of the Thames. The modern course measures one mile and 550 yards, slightly longer than the international Olympic standard of 2,000 metres.

In the regatta’s earliest years the course layout varied considerably depending on local river conditions, but over time improvements created the straighter and fairer course seen today. The distinctive side-by-side racing format evolved during the nineteenth century as the banks and islands along the route were reshaped and stabilised.

The final stretch towards the finish line near Temple Island and the Stewards’ Enclosure has produced some of the sport’s most memorable moments, with exhausted crews battling stroke for stroke in front of packed riverside crowds.

A Defining Social Occasion

While rowing remains at the heart of Henley Royal Regatta, the event is equally famous for its social atmosphere. Around 300,000 visitors attend across the six days, making it one of the highlights of the British summer season. Spectators gather along both banks of the river,

enjoying picnics, garden parties and hospitality marquees while watching the racing unfold. The combination of sport, tradition and riverside elegance creates an atmosphere unlike any other British sporting event.

General admission tickets usually begin at around £30 to £40 depending on the stage of the regatta, while premium hospitality experiences can cost several hundred pounds.

The most exclusive area remains the Stewards’ Enclosure, where entry is restricted to members and invited guests. It is regarded as the social heart of Henley and is famed for its strict dress code.

Men are expected to wear lounge suits or jackets with ties, while women traditionally wear dresses or skirts below the knee accompanied by hats or fascinators.

Elsewhere, the Regatta Enclosure offers premium riverside viewing with dining, bars and private hospitality, particularly popular during finals weekend.

Henley Royal Regatta takes place from Tuesday 30th June to Sunday 5th July. For tickets and further information see www.hrr.co.uk.

TALKING COMMON SENSE WITH THOMAS PAINE

As the United States prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence next July, we explore the remarkable life of Thomas Paine, the radical political thinker whose ideas helped inspire the birth of America and whose journey unexpectedly included time here in Lincolnshire

As the United States prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on 4th July this year, attention will soon turn to the remarkable figures who shaped the birth of a nation. Among them stands Thomas Paine, one of the most influential political thinkers of the eighteenth century and a man whose story has an unexpected connection to Lincolnshire.

Paine was born in Thetford, Norfolk, in 1737, the son of a Quaker corset maker. His early life was far from glamorous. He worked in a variety of trades and struggled financially for much of his youth, yet he possessed an exceptional intellect and a fierce belief in fairness and liberty. These qualities would eventually place him at the centre of two revolutions and help change the course of world history.

Before his departure for America, Paine spent part of his life in Lincolnshire while working as an excise officer. Records place him in Grantham during the 1760s, where he carried out duties collecting taxes on goods such as ale, tobacco and spirits. The role was poorly paid and often unpopular, but Paine used the experience to observe the inequalities of Georgian Britain at first hand. He saw how ordinary working people struggled while privilege and power remained concentrated among the wealthy elite.

Lincolnshire in the eighteenth century was a county shaped by agriculture, trade and coaching routes. Grantham itself was an

important market town, bustling with travellers and merchants. Paine would have encountered farmers, labourers and tradesmen whose lives depended upon hard work yet offered little opportunity for advancement. These experiences helped form his political beliefs and sharpened his sense that society needed radical reform.

His years as an excise officer were turbulent. Paine was dismissed from the service more than once after campaigning for better pay and conditions for fellow officers. Even then, he showed the rebellious spirit that would later define his writing. In London he met the American statesman Benjamin Franklin, who encouraged him to sail for the colonies in 1774.

America transformed Paine’s fortunes. Arriving in Philadelphia just as tensions with Britain were reaching breaking point, he quickly established himself as a gifted journalist and political commentator. In January 1776 he published Common Sense, a pamphlet that electrified the colonies. Written in direct and accessible language, it argued passionately that America should break free from British rule and establish an independent republic.

The impact was extraordinary. Thousands of copies were sold within months and Paine’s arguments helped shift public opinion towards independence. His words gave ordinary citizens confidence to support revolution at a crucial moment. Many historians regard Common Sense as one of the most influential political publications ever written.

Later that same year the Declaration of Independence was signed on 4th July 1776. While Paine was not one of the document’s signatories, his ideas and writings were deeply influential in creating the mood that made independence possible. His belief that governments existed to serve the people rather than hereditary rulers became central to the American cause.

Paine continued to support the revolutionary army during the war through a series of essays entitled The American Crisis. It was in these writings that he produced the famous line, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” George Washington reportedly ordered the essays to be read aloud to troops to inspire morale during the darkest periods of the conflict.

Despite helping to shape the United States, Paine remained a controversial figure throughout his life. He later supported the French Revolution and criticised organised religion in his work The Age of Reason. These views earned him powerful enemies in both Britain and America. Yet his commitment to democracy, human rights and social justice never faded.

Thomas Paine died in New York in 1809, largely isolated and out of favour. However, history has restored his reputation as one of the greatest political thinkers of the modern age. As America approaches its 250th anniversary celebrations in July, Lincolnshire can quietly claim a small, but nevertheless fascinating, connection to the story.

HOMES & GARDENS

Designed with Distinction

For Lucy and Mark Nicholls, some pretty extensive experience in housebuilding has ensured they have a keen eye for how a property should be designed and built...

“When you’re building a home, they aren’t projects, or units or houses... they’re homes. Places for families,” says Lucy Nicholls. Alongside husband Mark, the couple have much experience in developing homes, founding their company, Oakwood Homes in 2021 and having since created properties in the Deepings, Holbeach, Peterborough and Stamford.

Currently the company has completed a development in Casterton, with five more properties due for completion in autumn at Stilton and two more in West Deeping.

But the couple are also looking forward to beginning a more personal project. “We both really enjoy the process of creating a new home,” says Lucy. “Mark is very keen to stay in Tinwell as it’s a lovely location, close enough to town and all of the amenities that Stamford has to offer but also just far enough out of town to give the feel of being in the countryside.

“We’ve lived in Stamford since 2018 and we absolutely love the place. On Boxing Day 2020 we saw this plot, and during lockdown, we removed the existing property to create something new.”

Words: Rob Davis.

Lucy and Mark’s vision was a property with fewer but larger rooms, geared up to the way modern families live. Arranged over two floors, the two created the property in blonde Clipsham limestone, with a slate roof and a plot of around a third of an acre. The property is symmetrical and with Georgian styling cues and three reception rooms currently arranged as a kitchen/dining room with living room, plus a formal drawing room and a cinema room/snug.

To the first floor there are five good-sized bedrooms arranged around a galleried landing with en suite bathrooms and dressing rooms to the two principal suites.

The property’s handmade solid timber kitchen has been created by Tom Howley, in Nightshade, with antique brass handles, white quartz surfaces and appliances from premium brands such as Miele, Fisher & Paykel and Quooker. There’s a similarlyappointed laundry room and a boot room too.

Speaking of kitchens, the couple have also created an outdoor kitchen in a timberframed structure adjacent to the property, with decked flooring, a sink, wine cooler and six-burner barbecue.

The living kitchen has a vaulted ceiling over the dining area, French doors and a stone fireplace in the living room area. There are fireplaces too in the drawing room and entrance hall.

The sweeping concrete staircase in the entrance hall leads to the galleried landing and bedrooms, with bathrooms featuring Burlington fittings, walnut doors and fenestration by George Barnsdale of Spalding. Throughout the downstairs there’s a combination of walnut and porcelain flooring with underfloor heating and lighting by Eichholtz.

The garden, meanwhile, features a timber pavilion, wildflower lawn and infrared sauna, plus a wealth of mature trees and privet

hedging providing privacy without incurring much in the way of maintenance. There’s plenty of space for cars, too, and a double garage.

“We’ve loved the place and we’re looking forward to beginning a new project but the place is definitely best when it’s a family home filled with youngsters. We’ll miss the place enormously, but we’re proud of what we’ve created!”

Cherry Tree Cottage

Tinwell, near Stamford

Location: Tinwell; Stamford 1.5 miles, Grantham 22 miles, Peterborough 15 miles. Rooms: Three reception rooms currently arranged as living kitchen, drawing room and cinema. Five bedrooms, three bathrooms.

Guide Price £1,975,000.

Find Out More: Currently on the market with Pelham James, Stamford, call 01780 437 360 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk.

Secret Garden Curiosities

Transform your garden with unusual, luxurious and whimsical touches

RUSTIC GARDEN MIRROR

Large arch mirror adds depth and character to outdoor garden spaces, £289, loungeliving.co.uk.

RED STAG SCULPTURE

Created by Charles Elliott, a limited edition of twelve, £58,147, Call 01494 302201.

MOONLIT OUTDOOR MAGIC

Bring soft lunar ambience to patios and pergolas with elegant outdoor pendant lighting, £117, www.ulorra.com.

ELEGANT OUTDOOR TABLE

It’s simple, descriptive, and highlights both style and function for the garden setting, £790, massworks.co.uk.

HYDRA SCULPTURE

Created by David Harber, verdigris and gold patina, £POA, www.davidharber.co.uk.

LUXE WOODLAND CHARM

Made with reclaimed oak, underfloor heating, full kitchen and shower room, £39­£45,000, 01793 716316.

Artful, British made pieces that bring whimsy and character to every meal, £140, emmajshipley.com.

BRONZE GARDEN GRACE

Elegant bronze standing deer sculpture bringing timeless charm and character, £975, blackcountrymetalworks.co.uk.

HOBBIT SAUNA RETREAT

Wood­fired or electric hobbit sauna brings wellness and charm outdoors, £6,750, layzeeliving.co.uk.

SWINGING DAY BED

With pergola, £11, 2m x 1.5m, £10,872, call 01297 443084 www.sittingspiritually.co.uk.

ELEGANT FLORAL SCULPTURE

Stunning blue hydrangea sculpture blending stoneware steel and wood with grace, £3,000, thesculpturepark.com.

RELAX SIT SWING

A classic swing seat with floral green canvas for timeless garden comfort, £2,395, wilverley.com.

TIMELESS GARDEN TIMEPIECE

Cast­iron free standing sundial adds rustic charm and classic garden character, £95, gingerinteriors.co.uk.

SUMMER PATIO SANCTUARY

A luxe, handcrafted parasol that brings elegant shade and style to outdoor living, £780, theroost.com.

SERENE GARDEN GUARDIAN

Elegant sitting fairy adding timeless character and whimsical elegance outdoors, £4,395, avantgardenbronzes.com.

RATTAN DAYBED

Willowbrook lattice weave rattan daybed in natural tones for outdoor relaxation, £689, daals.co.uk.

Quality Kitchens Turnbull of Lincolnshire for

From contemporary German-engineered kitchens to beautifully crafted British cabinetry, Turnbull Kitchens & Bathrooms combines over 130 years of expertise with trusted brands, intelligent design and family-run service to create kitchens that are as practical as they are stylish

Kitchens are the heart of the home, spaces in which we cook, entertain, unwind and spend time together as a family. As lifestyles evolve, the way we expect our kitchens to perform has changed too, balancing elegant design with practical everyday living.

A new kitchen offers far more than a visual refresh; it’s an opportunity to rethink how the space works for you, creating somewhere that feels both functional and welcoming. Happily, Lincolnshire-based Turnbull has over 130 years of experience helping homeowners achieve exactly that, combining trusted expertise with carefully selected products to create kitchens and bathrooms that enhance everyday life.

“We’re proud to be independent, familyowned and operated, and trusted by both families and professional tradespeople who source everything they need to do a great job from our Lincolnshire showrooms and builders’ yards,” says Olivia Hopkins, Group Showroom Manager.

“Our reputation has enabled us to grow, with showrooms in Boston, Brigg, Horncastle, Newark and Sleaford, plus our largest twostorey 7,000sq ft showroom on Lincoln’s Deacon Road. Each features inspiring kitchen and bathroom displays alongside appliances, sinks, taps and finishing touches to help customers visualise every element of their new room.”

Among Turnbull’s ranges is Rotpunkt, renowned for contemporary, design-led kitchens, whilst Sheraton and Symphony are two respected names within the industry. Sheraton offers over 80 door styles and 26 painted colour options, whilst Symphony has been manufacturing kitchens entirely in Britain for more than 50 years.

“Our in-house designers work closely with customers throughout the process, creating collaborative designs free of charge and without obligation,” says Olivia. “We’re proud of our heritage, our products and the relationships we’ve built with customers who trust us to create kitchens and bathrooms that combine form and function beautifully.”

and Newark, the company

all you need to create a stunning new space in your home. Call 01522 214366 or see www.turnbull.co.uk/showrooms.

Devereux Way, Horncastle LN9 6AU

Tel: 01507 527113

W: www.peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk E: info@peterjacksoncabinets.co.uk

GARDENING with MARK LANE

As July reaches its glorious peak, the garden rewards us with colour, scent and abundance, but it also demands careful attention and thoughtful stewardship to keep the garden flourishing through high summer and beyond

Words & Images: Mark Lane.

July is one of those months where the garden feels abundant, generous and, if we’re honest, a little overwhelming. Everything is growing at pace, borders are full, vegetables are cropping and yet the list of jobs doesn’t slow down. In fact, July is about maintaining momentum while also preparing for what comes next. It’s a month of balance: enjoying the rewards while quietly steering the garden through its peak.

One of the key things to focus on in July is watering, but not just watering for the sake of it. It’s about watering wisely. Early morning or late evening is best, allowing moisture to soak into the soil rather than evaporating in the midday sun.

Water, water, everywhere...

Deep, infrequent watering encourages plants to develop stronger root systems, rather than becoming dependent on surface moisture. Containers, hanging baskets and newly planted specimens will need particular attention, as they dry out quickly in warm weather. If you can, use collected rainwater; it’s better for plants and more sustainable.

Deadheading becomes a regular ritual this month. By removing spent flowers from plants such as roses, dahlias, cosmos and geraniums, you encourage further blooms and keep displays looking fresh. It’s a small task, but one that makes a noticeable difference.

Lawns, too, require a thoughtful approach. Growth is still active, but during hot, dry spells, it’s best to raise the cutting height slightly. This helps the grass retain moisture and reduces stress. If the lawn begins to look tired or brown, resist the urge to overwater, as it will usually recover with the autumn rain. Weeding is another ongoing job, though, by July, it becomes more about control than eradication. Annual weeds should be removed before they set seed, while perennial weeds need careful extraction to prevent regrowth. After weeding, a light mulch can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture, creating a more stable growing environment.

In the vegetable garden...

In the vegetable garden, July is both productive and forward-looking. Crops such as courgettes, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers and soft fruits are coming into their own, and regular harvesting is essential. The more you pick, the more the plants will produce. It’s one of the simplest ways to extend your harvest period.

Tomatoes, in particular, need consistent care. Pinch out side shoots on cordon varieties, tie in stems as they grow and ensure even watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot. Feeding with a high-potash fertiliser once flowers have set will support fruit development. It’s a rhythm: water, feed, check, repeat.

At the same time, it’s important to think ahead. July is a key sowing month for late crops. You can still sow carrots, beetroot, lettuce and radishes for succession, as well as autumn and winter vegetables such as kale, spring cabbage and turnips. This keeps the garden productive beyond summer and avoids crop gaps that can occur later in the year.

Harvesting and preserving herbs

Herbs are at their peak now, and regular harvesting keeps them productive. Many, like mint, thyme and oregano, can be cut back lightly to encourage fresh growth. It’s also a good time to harvest herbs for drying or freezing, preserving their flavour for use in the coming months.

Summer pruning is another important task. Early-flowering shrubs such as philadelphus and weigela can be pruned after they finish blooming, helping to shape the plant and encourage strong growth for next year’s flowers. Wisteria also benefits from a summer prune, cutting back long shoots, to maintain structure and promote flowering.

Cutting back early perennials that have finished flowering can sometimes encourage a second flush. Plants like hardy geraniums and delphiniums may reward you with fresh growth and even additional blooms if trimmed and lightly fed.

Climbers and ramblers

Climbers and ramblers may need tying in as they grow rapidly. Keeping them supported not only improves their appearance but also ensures good air circulation, reducing the risk of pests and disease.

Aphids, slugs, snails and caterpillars are all active, and fungal issues such as powdery

mildew or rust can appear in warm, dry conditions. Rather than reaching immediately for treatments, consider a balanced approach. Encourage natural predators such as lacewings and ladybirds, maintain good spacing between plants and remove affected material promptly. A healthy, biodiverse garden often regulates itself more effectively than one that’s overly controlled with the use of insecticides, pesticides and herbicides.

Greenhouse care

Greenhouse care is especially important during this month. Ventilation is key; open doors, vents and windows to prevent overheating. Shading may be necessary during particularly hot spells, and watering will need to be frequent and consistent. Plants under glass can dry out quickly, and stress can lead to poor growth or pest problems.

Caring for soft fruit

If you’re growing fruit, protecting your harvest becomes increasingly important. Netting may be needed to keep birds off soft fruits (but

check nets regularly for inquisitive birds), while regular picking prevents overripening and waste. Strawberries, raspberries and currants all benefit from attentive harvesting.

And finally...

And then there’s the less tangible, but equally vital, job: spending time visiting gardens or simply enjoying your own garden. July invites you to pause, observe and enjoy the scent of flowers, the movement of pollinators and the interplay of light and shadow.

It’s easy to become caught up in the list of things to do, but July reminds us why we garden in the first place. Yes, there’s watering, weeding, feeding and pruning, but there’s also sitting quietly with a cup of tea, noticing how the garden shifts through the day.

In many ways, July is about stewardship rather than control, so, while the workload may feel steady, it’s also deeply rewarding. July is generous. It asks for your attention, but it gives back in abundance.

Gardening in July

n Water containers, hanging baskets and newly planted shrubs thoroughly during dry spells, ideally early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.

n Deadhead roses, dahlias and summer bedding regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.

n Trim lavender once blooms begin to fade, keeping plants neat and encouraging healthy new growth without cutting into old woody stems.

n Harvest runner beans, courgettes, salad leaves and soft fruit frequently to keep crops productive and prevent plants becoming overgrown.

n Feed tomatoes weekly with a high potash fertiliser and pinch out side shoots on cordon varieties for stronger fruit production.

n Check lilies, roses and vegetables for aphids, slugs and fungal problems, treating promptly to avoid damage spreading in warm conditions.

n Sow biennials such as foxgloves and wallflowers now for colourful displays next spring and early summer.

LINCOLNSHIRE GARDENS IN JULY

Sunday 5th July

Ivy Cottage: Ivy Cottage garden has been redesigned and planted over the past three years. The 0.3 acre garden features a summerhouse, patio and mixed borders with a selection of trees, shrubs, roses and perennials giving all-year-round interest. A large greenhouse with edible crops and a display of ornamental plants.

11am to 4pm. Combined with Mere House £10, children free. Tea, coffee and cake at Mere House, admission includes refreshments. Sturton By Stow, Lincoln, LN1 2BZ.

Mere House: Approx one and a half acres of established garden, planted for the first time in 1975, redesigned in 1996 and 2011, renewed over the last year. Cutting garden, pleached hedges, vegetable garden and orchard. Work in continual progress includes long herbaceous border and new border for the dryer conditions.

11am to 4pm. Tea, coffee and cake, admission includes refreshments. Sturton by Stow, Lincoln, LN1 2BZ.

The Old Vicarage: A two acre garden with 160 year old tulip, plane and beech trees: borders of shrubs, roses, herbaceous plants. Snowdrops, early bulbs, hellebores in woodland. Shrub roses and herb garden in old paddock area, surrounded by informal borders with pond, bog garden, wildflowers, grasses and bulbs. Small fruit and vegetable garden. Grass and flower meadow. Garden managed environmentally for 35 years. 1pm to 5pm. £5, refreshments in aid of a local charity. Holbeach Hurn, PE12 8JN.

Oxcombe Manor: Oxcombe lies in a secluded picturesque valley of the Lincolnshire Wolds, with a manor house, traditional farmstead and parish church among a kitchen garden, orchard, lawns, woodland and flower beds. Today it offers a tranquil retreat for developing potters and artists. Visitors can enjoy the gardens while trying pottery taster sessions, and enjoy tea and home-made cakes.

11.30am to 5.30pm. £7. Tea, coffee & cake. Oxcombe, Horncastle, LN9 6LU. www.oxcombepottery.co.uk.

Saturday 11th July, & Sunday 12th July

Belvoir Castle Flower & Garden Show: Marvel at the creativity of talented designers and explore stunning garden showcases that will ignite your imagination. Enjoy inspiring show gardens, expert talks, artisan shopping and excellent food and drink. Television favourites Adam Frost and David Domoney will appear alongside floral designer Paula Routledge and garden expert Karen Gimson.

9.30am to 5pm, £15/adults, £5/children, Belvoir Castle, NG32 1PA, belvoircastle.com

Saturday 18th July

Battleford Hall: A Victorian garden with formal clipped hedging, rose parterres alongside colourful borders and a walled herb garden. A canopy of mature trees, comprising ginkgo biloba, mulberry, London plane and cedar of Lebanon. 11am to 4pm. £7. Tea, coffee and cake. Bensgate Road, Fleet, Spalding, PE12 8NL.

Sunday 19th July

The Manor: Bardney Manor Walled Gardens offer a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the charm of an English kitchen garden being lovingly restored for the modern day. Enclosed by high brick walls, the garden provides shelter and creates a unique microclimate that allows fruit, vegetables, flowers and herbs to thrive. 11am to 4pm. £7. Tea, coffee and cake. Church Lane, Bardney, Lincoln, LN3 5TZ. www.bardneymanorwalledgarden.com.

Sunday 26th July

Gunby Hall and Gardens: Eight acres of formal and walled gardens. Old roses, herbaceous borders, herb garden and kitchen garden with fruit trees and vegetables. Greenhouses and sweeping lawns. 10am to 4pm. £7. Tea, coffee and cake in the tearoom. Spilsby, PE23 5SS. 01754 892998. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gunby-hall.

, we‘re rea dustry he indu ce in the . W TIHL gard experience en machinery and S S ts in ridde- John Deere rid n Jo Specialis S e- n ride rden ady to help. y hel ith yeaars of yeea mow -on m wers o With

RHS Chelsea: In Full Bloom

Royal visits, celebrity appearances and magnificent show gardens too

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show returned this year with all the colour, creativity and horticultural inspiration that has made it one of the most celebrated events in the gardening calendar. More than 145,000 visitors gathered in west London for a show that balanced spectacular floral displays with a strong environmental message, while the presence of the King and Queen ensured the event once again captured national attention.

This year’s show placed biodiversity, conservation and the protection of natural spaces firmly at its heart, with designers embracing wildlife-friendly planting, sustainable landscaping and traditional gardening craftsmanship. Yet alongside the gardens and displays, it was the appearance of Sir David Beckham and the unveiling of a rose bearing his name that created some of the most talked about moments of the week.

Royal approval at Chelsea

The King and Queen toured several of the headline gardens during their visit, spending time with designers, growers and charities connected to causes close to their hearts. King Charles III has long championed environmental issues and sustainable gardening, and this year’s Chelsea reflected many of those themes.

One of the most significant gardens visited by Their Majesties was The RHS and The King’s Foundation Curious Garden, designed by Frances Tophill. Filled with productive planting, wildflowers and traditional craft inspired elements, the garden was designed to celebrate the joy of gardening while encouraging biodiversity.

The King, who is patron of The Delphinium Society, was particularly interested in the garden’s delphiniums,

including several rare varieties. Sir David Beckham and Alan Titchmarsh were both involved in the project, with Beckham reportedly suggesting the inclusion of garlic and catmint in the planting scheme.

The royal couple also visited Sarah Eberle’s striking Campaign to Protect Rural England Garden, featuring an enormous sculpture of Gaia surrounded by naturalistic planting. The garden highlighted the importance of protecting overlooked areas of countryside on the edges of towns and cities.

Elsewhere, Japanese designer Kazuyuki Ishihara presented what may be his final Chelsea garden, Tokonoma Garden Sanumaya no Niwa, a contemplative space inspired by traditional Japanese gardens and family storytelling.

By any other name... David Beckham’s rose

One of the standout moments of this year’s Chelsea Flower Show was the unveiling of a new David Austin rose named in honour of Sir David Beckham.

The former England captain joined the Queen at the David Austin Roses exhibit in the Great Pavilion, where the family-run breeder revealed the new bloom. The tribute was reportedly organised after Beckham’s daughter Harper approached the company last year wanting to create something lasting and meaningful for her father’s fiftieth birthday.

Sir David described the gesture as an honour and said the rose would become a wonderful legacy for his family. He already has 37 of the roses planted in his Cotswolds garden, with additional specimens growing in his parents’ gardens too.

The connection between Beckham and gardening has grown considerably in recent years, with the former footballer becoming increasingly passionate about

horticulture and outdoor spaces. His role as ambassador for The King’s Foundation has further strengthened that association, and proceeds from every rose sold will help support the charity’s work.

The launch also created one of the most photographed moments of the show, with Beckham wearing the rose proudly as a buttonhole while greeting visitors and exhibitors.

Angela Rippon recreates a television classic

Among the lighter moments at Chelsea this year was the appearance of Angela Rippon, who recreated her iconic dance routine from the 1976 Morecambe and Wise show.

The winning gardens

As ever, though, the show gardens provided some of the most inspiring ideas of Chelsea week, combining artistry with powerful storytelling and imaginative planting.

Among the highlights was the Alzheimer’s Society

Microbes and Minds Garden, featuring sweeping Corten steel curves intersecting around a central apple tree. The design explored the relationship between brain health, memory and the natural world. The balcony garden category also impressed visitors.

A Little Garden of Shared Knowledge, a space designed to blend personal sanctuary with memories of travel, gardening and creativity.

Meanwhile the Tales from the Riverbank Floating Balcony Garden recreated the atmosphere of riverside living with a floating home surrounded by lush planting that appeared to drift effortlessly alongside the water.

RHS Badminton and Sandringham

Chelsea may remain the jewel in the RHS calendar, but this summer the organisation is expanding its reach with two other major events. The inaugural RHS Badminton Flower Show takes place from 8th to 12th July, bringing worldclass planting and garden design to the grounds of the famous Gloucestershire estate. The event promises show gardens, floral displays, specialist nurseries and outdoor living inspiration in a spectacular countryside setting.

Later in the month comes the first RHS Sandringham Flower Show from 22nd to 26th July. Hosted at the Royal Estate in Norfolk, the event is expected to combine traditional horticultural excellence with the relaxed atmosphere of a summer country gathering.

www.rhs.org.uk

• Working Historic Windmill, Bakery and Tearooms

• Set in 0.75 Acres, Gardens, Customer Parking

• Family Home with 3 Reception Rooms, 4 Bedrooms, 3 En-Suites and Family Bathroom

• Spectacular Views Over the Trent Valley

SHARDELOES ROAD SKEGNESS ǀ LINCOLNSHIRE ǀ PE25 3AA

• Back on the market due to chain collapse

• Substantial Detached 4 Bedroomed House Available Immediately

• Close to the Beach and Walking Distance of the Town Centre

• Parking for Over 8 Vehicles with Gardens to the Front and Rear

To Contract

SALE

WITH VACANT POSSESSION £399,995 Subject To Contract NO Onward Chain

• Large Five Bedroomed Chalet Bungalow

• Excellent Long-Term Flexibility as Family Needs Evolve

• Two Reception Rooms and Sunroom

Subject To Contract

• Double Garage with Vehicle Parking PARK ROAD BOSTON ǀ LINCOLNSHIRE ǀ PE21 7JP FOR SALE FREEHOLD WITH VACANT POSSESSION OFFERS OVER £550,000

Acorn House

Witham On The Hill

Acorn House enjoys breathtaking views, located on the outskirts of Witham on the Hill, a picturesque village nestled in the rolling countryside of Lincolnshire, offering a serene and idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle. Characterised by its traditional stone cottages and scenic surroundings, the village exudes timeless English charm. The village boasts a beautiful church, an award winning public house, The Six Bells.

Guide price £1,400,000

Woodside Grange

Tucked away within The Old Wood, Skellingthorpe, and surrounded by mature woodland, this remarkable home offers a lifestyle that is genuinely hard to replicate. With approximately 4,000 sq ft of accommodation and around 1.5 acres (subject to survey) of grounds, this is more than a house—it is a private, tranquil retreat and a truly special place to call home.

Offers over £1,350,000

A privileged chance for the discerning buyer to acquire two properties together, whether the occasion calls for multigenerational living or an additional income stream, this rare opportunity offers a flexible and convenient lifestyle in a glorious Cliff Village. Both offer their own, independent living accommodation with their own utilities, driveways and gardens, providing a pair of completely self-contained homes.

The Covey Evedon

An exceptional bespoke detached residence set behind electric gates in the sought-after village of Evedon. Offering elegant living spaces, a stunning kitchen opening to a sunroom with field views, generous gardens, plus paddocks of 1.14 acres (STS), driveway and double garage.

£1,000,000

William H Brown 75 South Gate, Sleaford NG34 7TA. Call 01529 303040 or see www.williamhbrown.co.uk

Old Manor House

Little Humby

Old Manor House is a distinguished Grade II listed former farmhouse, rich in character and positioned in the heart of an attractive semi rural village with convenient access to Grantham. Believed to date from 1631, with the original date stone set above the entrance, the house retains an exceptional range of period features, including stone mullion windows, exposed beams, York stone and oak flooring, and beautifully preserved stone walling.

Guide price £1,100,000

Savills Olympic House, 995 Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6

or see www.savills.co.uk

The

Laurels

Humberston

1 The Laurels is an understated home which exudes luxury and elegance. Complete with private outdoor heated swimming pool, Changing Room and shower facilities and fabulous outdoor entertaining area.

£1,250,000

Martin Maslin 4-6 Abbey Walk, Grimsby DN31 1NB Call 01472 311000 www.martinmaslinestateagents.co.uk

Station Road

Tetney

Beautifully presented holiday home complex includes 8 holiday cottages and a characterful, detached farmhouse providing private owner accommodation.

Guide Price £1,000,000

Masons 23 Cornmarket, Louth, LN11 9QD Call 01507 350500 or see www.movewithmasons.co.uk

The Manor House

Castle Bytham

The Manor House is a charming Grade II Listed detached residence positioned on a generous plot of approximately 1.2 acres, offering over 4500sqft of accommodation with a total of 7 bedrooms.

Offers Over £1,200,000

Moores Estate Agents Barleythorpe, Oakham, LE15 7FS Call 01780 484555 or see www.countryequestrianhomes.com

The Elms

North Cotes

Set within approximately 10.5 acres (subject to survey), this distinguished and highly versatile period residence presents a rare opportunity to acquire a home of considerable scale, character, and potential.

Guide Price £925,000

Masons 23 Cornmarket, Louth, LN11 9QD Call 01507 350500 or see www.movewithmasons.co.uk

The Edge Alkborough

‘The Edge’ is quite simply one of Lincolnshire's Finest Homes that has come to the market in recent years.

£1,250,000

Paul Fox 10 Market Place, Brigg, DN20 8ES. Call 01652 651777 or see www.paul-fox.com

Stroxton House Grantham

Beautifully presented family home with accommodation arranged across two floors, including three reception rooms, five bedrooms and three bathrooms.

Guide Price: £1,800,000

Brown&Co 5 Oakwood Rd, Lincoln LN6 3LH Call 01522 457800 or see www.brown-co.com

Wellsyke

Farm Kirkby on Bain

A ringfenced highly versatile arable farm with large period house in close proximity to the sought after former spa town of Woodhall Spa.

Guide price £3,430,000

Robert Bell & Company Old Bank Chambers, Horncastle, LN9 5HY Call 01507 522222 www.robert-bell.org

The Old Rectory Broxholme

A fine former rectory with extensive accommodation and stunning gardens and grounds, sitting on approximately 8.13 acres, and including a historic parish church rich in character.

Guide Price £1,500,000

Savills Olympic House, 995 Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE Call 01522 508908 or see www.savills.co.uk

The Hall

Ashby-cum-Fenby

A magnificent Grade II Listed house offering highly appealing accommodation, a detached cottage and beautiful gardens, in the charming village of Ashby-cum-Fenby.

Guide price £1,000,000

Savills Olympic House, 995 Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE Call 01522 508908 or see www.savills.co.uk

Thorpe Farm Tealby

A truly one-of-a-kind country home. Thorpe Farm is a beautifully restored Grade II Listed farmhouse with a stunning converted crew yard, set within approx. 7.88 acres of grounds on the edge of Tealby.

£1,400,000

Mundys 29 Silver Street, Lincoln, LN2 1AS. Call 01522 510044 or see www.mundys.net

Wythes Lane Fishtoft

An exceptional detached house completed in 2023 and finished to a high standard. On a plot of approximately 2.62 acres, subject to survey, with open views.

Offers in Excess of: £1,500,000

Newton Fallowell 26 Wide Bargate, Boston, PE21 6RX Call 01205 353100 www.newtonfallowell.co.uk

Rectory Lane

Addlethorpe

A fine detached four bedroom residence with elegant proportions set within grounds of approximately 1 3/4 acres with private gated access.

Guide Price: £1,300,000

Mount & Minster 32 Eastgate, Lincoln LN2 1QA. Call 01522 716204 or see www.mountandminster.co.uk

Bourne Eau House

Bourne

Romantic, dramatic and utterly singular: history, architecture and a spellbinding setting beside the River Eau meet at Bourne Eau House, a Grade II listed residence evolving over four centuries.

Guide Price

£1,500,000

Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01780 437 360 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk

Waddington House

Waddington

A stunning Grade II Listed detached Queen Anne residence, set within its own extensive, private and walled grounds within the heart of the much sought after Cliff Village of Waddington.

£1,250,000

Mundys 29 Silver Street, Lincoln, LN2 1AS. Call 01522 510044 or see www.mundys.net

Welton-le-Wold Louth

Exceptional detached country residence in prime Wolds village near Louth within 4.5-acre grounds (STS) having potential for various uses (STP).

£925,000

Masons 23 Cornmarket, Louth, LN11 9QD Call 01507 350500 or see www.movewithmasons.co.uk

Grantchester Louth

An exquisite detached five bedroom house offering extensive high-end lifestyle accommodation and beautifully landscaped gardens, set in a sought-after market town of Louth.

Offers in excess of £985,000

Savills Olympic House, 995 Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3SE Call 01522 508908 or see www.savills.co.uk

ON THE FARM

This month we’re finding out what’s happening in the fields of Lincolnshire with farming correspondent Andrew Ward MBE

July is an important month on the farm, but also a time of calm before what will hopefully be a busy and productive harvest. Combines are being prepared, grain stores swept clean and machinery checked carefully ahead of harvest. For many arable farmers this is the moment when an entire year of planning, investment and patience finally begins to show its worth.

Winter barley is usually the first crop to be cut and, after a promising spring, yields are looking respectable in many areas. Wheat is now turning steadily from green to gold and, provided the weather remains reasonably settled, harvest could begin earlier than usual.

Oilseed rape has been more variable. Some crops established well after autumn drilling, while others struggled against flea beetle pressure and difficult conditions. Even so, there remains cautious optimism that stronger prices may help balance disappointing yields.

July is also the height of the pea vining season, with specialist harvesting teams working around the clock to gather crops destined for freezing within just an hour or so of leaving the field.

Potato growers are entering an especially demanding period. Irrigation equipment is running regularly as farmers work to maintain tuber quality during warmer weather.

Disease pressure also increases at this time of year, particularly where humid conditions follow rainfall. Attention to detail is essential because supermarket specifications remain exacting and storage costs continue to rise.

Livestock farms are equally busy. Poultry producers are managing ventilation carefully during hotter spells, while egg producers continue to face pressure from high feed and energy costs. Pig and cattle farmers are making silage whenever conditions allow, hoping to secure enough quality forage for winter feeding later in the year.

One issue attracting growing debate is the renewed call from campaign groups for restrictions on glyphosate use. While some critics portray the product as unnecessary, most farmers view it as an essential tool within modern food production. Glyphosate allows growers to control weeds efficiently before drilling crops, reducing the need for repeated cultivations and helping preserve soil structure and moisture. Without it, many farms would need to rely on more intensive mechanical cultivation, increasing fuel use, soil erosion and carbon emissions. In practical terms, a ban would almost certainly raise production costs and place further pressure on domestic food prices at a time when farming businesses already face considerable financial strain.

Bean and sugar beet crops are also progressing steadily after favourable growing conditions during late spring. Across the region there is cautious confidence following better weather and firmer commodity markets... but rising machinery costs, labour shortages and IHT worries continue to weigh heavily on farm businesses. Every decision made during July carries importance because profit margins remain tight for many producers, something of which everyone in the profession is all too aware.

Watch Wardy’s Waffle:Our farming correspondent Andrew Ward MBE is an arable farmer in Leadenham growing wheat, barley, sugar beet, beans and oats. Andrew has his own YouTube channel, Wardy’s Waffle, which is enjoyed by over 22,700 subscribers. Watch his updates Wednesday evenings from 7pm and Sunday mornings at 8am. Search YouTube for @WardysWaffleAndrewWard.

Garden Vows

A beautifully intimate wedding in Hundleby, with personal touches, heartfelt vows and a sunlit garden ceremony. Kate and Tom crafted a day that reflected their personalities, surrounded by family, friends, and thoughtful local suppliers

Images: Leanne Donohue Photography, 07919 350975, www.leannedonohue.com.

Kate and Tom’s love story began in Louth, the town they were both born and raised in. After university in York and work in Cardiff, they returned home, unknowingly bringing their paths closer together.

Their first meeting came via a blind date organised by their hairdressers — a modern twist on a local connection, and the start of something truly unforgettable.

Tom proposed during a holiday in Ko Lanta, Thailand. Having arranged time off work to travel together, he surprised Kate on the beach.

Getting down on one knee, he asked for her hand — and in her excitement, Kate slipped the ring onto her own finger, a memory they laugh about to this day. The ring itself held extra significance, being Tom’s mother’s engagement ring, and he had sought Kate’s father’s permission beforehand.

For their wedding, Kate and Tom chose The Elm Tree in Louth. They loved the relaxed, private garden setting, which allowed them to craft a day that felt entirely their own.

From the very first consultation, the team at the venue helped make

planning seamless, offering guidance while letting them retain full creative control.

Kate found her dream dress at Bride Vibe. The fit-and-flare gown combined soft crepe with shimmery leafy lace appliqués, a plunging V-neckline, low V-back, thin beaded straps, and a sheer train.

She completed her look with a fingertip-length veil, and pearl accessories. Bridesmaids wore pastel blue flowing dresses, hair was styled by Sara Anderson at Beau Modele, and makeup was by Tina

Brocklebank, complementing the natural, elegant aesthetic.

Tom opted for a classic suit from Charles Tyrwhitt, while his best friend and Kate’s close friend acted as witnesses.

The couple kept the wedding intimate, including only one ring bearer and their closest family as bridesmaids.

Flowers were provided by Kay’s Flowers, while the cake, a beautiful creation enjoyed by all, was from Cupcakes by Sally.

Afternoon tea and bar service were handled by The Elm Tree and Event Box, respectively.

Kate worked with Sarah Beedham of Raspberry Rode Designs to create their stationery, and the couple chose their own playlist for a personal soundtrack to the day, avoiding traditional wedding music. Photography was by Leanne Donohue, who captured every

heartfelt moment, including highlights such as a gentle rain shower just as Kate walked down the garden with her father, creating a magical sunlit backdrop, and the couple’s self-written vows, which revealed how in tune they were with each other.

Their first dance took place on the grass, surrounded by family and friends, adding to the intimacy of the celebration.

Kate and Tom’s advice to other couples is simple: do your day your way. Keep it personal, involve only your closest people if that suits you, and take measures to minimise waste (their cake boxes were a hit with guests the next day).

The couple credits their parents and the staff at The Elm Tree for helping make the day a truly magical experience.

Local Suppliers

Images: Leanne Donohue Photography, 07919 350975, www.leannedonohue.com.

Venue & Afternoon Tea: The Elm Tree, Spilsby, 01790 753534, www.elmtree.co.uk.

Dress: Bride Vibe, Ulceby, www.bridevibe.co.uk.

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: www.prettypanache.co.uk.

Bridal Hair: Rituals at Beau Modele, Louth, 01507 354000.

Makeup: Tina Brocklebank, www.tinabrocklebank.co.uk.

Groom’s Suit: Charles Tyrwhitt, charlestyrwhitt.com.

Flowers: Kay’s Flowers, Fotherby, Louth, 07778 137920.

Cake: Cupcakes by Sally, Louth, via Facebook.

Bar: Event Box, 07941 303996.

Stationery: www.raspberryrosedesigns.co.uk.

43/44 Wrawby Street, Brigg, North Lincolnshire DN20 8BS

Tel: 01652 653595. Web: www.obriensopticians.co.uk

Call for an appointment or pop in to view our latest designer eyewear in stock now.

PERSONALISED SKINCARE & WELLBEING TREATMENTS

EMSCULPT NEO: Non-invasive body sculpting

HYDRAFACIAL: Cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating

RF MICRONEEDLING: For younger, firmer skin

LASER AESTHETICS: Hair removal, pigmentation and vascular concerns

Also: Massage, LED phototherapy, manicures and pedicures

Call 01572 490950 or see www.calveo.co.uk

Rutland Garden Village, Oakham LE15 7QN SCULPT A NEW

SUN SHIELD

EVERYDAY SKIN DEFENCE

As we move deeper into summer, one beauty principle remains quietly essential and that is sun protection. For our readers who understand skincare as a long-term investment rather than a seasonal consideration, the newest wave of beauty launches makes it easier than ever to protect, perfect and refine the complexion within a simple daily routine.

What is particularly noteworthy this season is how seamlessly sun protection now fits into modern skincare and makeup. No longer heavy, chalky or clinical, today’s formulations feel comfortable on the skin while offering hydration, luminosity and broad-spectrum defence against daily exposure. Even on overcast days, UVA rays are present throughout the year and can penetrate cloud and glass, quietly contributing to pigmentation, fine lines and a gradual loss of elasticity over time.

One of the most welcome developments is the rise of complexion products with built-in sun protection. Tinted moisturisers and lightweight foundations now combine coverage with SPF, allowing skin to appear naturally even and softly radiant without the need for multiple layers. These are ideal for women who prefer an effortless finish that still feels polished and refined.

We are also seeing more protective primers and serums designed to sit beneath makeup. These multitasking formulas help defend the skin while delivering ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. The result is a smoother-looking base that supports makeup longevity while keeping the skin feeling comfortable throughout the day.

Lip protection is another area gaining attention. Hydrating balms with SPF help protect the delicate skin around the mouth, an area where sun exposure often shows earlier than expected. Regular use can help maintain softness while supporting a more youthful appearance over time.

Finishing powders with SPF are another clever addition, allowing easy top-ups without disrupting makeup. A light sweep across the face during the day is particularly useful for time spent outdoors, whether in gardens, at events or simply enjoying lunch in the sun.

Ultimately, sun protection has become an essential part of everyday beauty rather than a separate step reserved for holidays. The latest formulations make it simple to care for the skin while still enjoying a fresh, radiant complexion. It is a practical yet elegant approach to skincare that supports both immediate confidence and long-term skin health.

Our Recommended Products (above):

1. La Roche­Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Hydrating Tinted Cream SPF50+. High protection tinted sun cream with UVA and UVB defence, lightweight finish that evens skin tone, £22.50, laroche posay.co.uk.

2. Rodial SPF50 serum drops that protect UVA and UVB while hydrating with antioxidants and blue light defence, leaving skin weightless and nourished, £75, rodial.com.

3. Clé de Peau UV Protective Lip Treatment SPF30. Velvety lip treatment that hydrates and protects lips with SPF30, keeping them smooth and nourished, £59, cledepeaubeaute.co.uk.

4. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Color Balm SPF50. Multi­tasking SPF50 colour balm that protects lips, cheeks and eyes with UVA and UVB defence while adding colour, £34, colorescienceuk.com.

5. Germaine de Capuccini Hi­Protection Makeup SPF50+. Compact colour sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection that evens skin tone while guarding against sun damage, £59, germainedecapuccini.com.

Your Health

CONSULTANT LED CARE ESTABLISHED IN 2011 CQC REGISTERED

SELF-PAY OR INSURED PROMPT APPOINTMENTS

Committed to excellence in holistic healthcare, working alongside your NHS GP, providing prompt access to care, diagnosis and treatments

Private GP services Blood tests, private prescriptions, wellness check

Ear, nose and throat Consultations, diagnostics and treatment

Orthopaedics Musculoskeletal clinic, physio, steroid injections

Diagnostics Phlebotomy, ultrasound, laryngoscopy, endoscopy

Aesthetics Dermal filler, Botox, skin hydration, B12infusion

Plus: Women’s health, acupuncture and shockwave therapy

Book your appointment today at hshealthgroup.co.uk

More affluent readers. More online readers. Highest engagement. Transparent circulation. When you need premium readers, Pride delivers - literally!

Reach the region’s most affluent readers - every month. Over 60,000 engaged readers across print and digital. w: www.pridemagazines.co.uk t: 01529 469977 or e: sales@pridemagazines.co.uk

enquiries@crowlandcarpets.co.uk

WELCOME TO PORTFOLIO

There’s something rather special about seeing the place you call home through the eyes of visitors. Recently, we welcomed the in-laws for the weekend, splitting our time between Lincolnshire, Rutland and Stamford, and it reminded me just how fortunate we are to live in such remarkable counties.

What struck them most wasn’t simply the beautiful countryside, the historic market towns or the excellent restaurants — although we enjoyed all of those in abundance — but the warmth of the people.

Everywhere we went, people spoke to one another. Staff in the bars and restaurants we frequented asked after customers by name, strangers exchanged a cheerful “good morning” on the daily dog walk, and conversations seemed to flow naturally wherever we stopped. In a world that can often feel increasingly hurried and disconnected, that sense of community feels genuinely valuable.

Summer, of course, brings out the very best in our area. Gardens are in full bloom, pubs and restaurants are buzzing, and every weekend seems to offer another fête, open garden, concert or outdoor gathering. There’s a relaxed confidence to country life at this time of year — a reminder that luxury is not always found in the fast-paced or extravagant, but often in quality of life, beauty, friendship and time well spent.

It’s easy to take our surroundings for granted when we see them every day, but hosting visitors offered a fresh perspective. Watching others fall in love with the places we know so well reminded me just how proud I am of where we live.

I hope you enjoy similar experiences this summer, introducing others to the wonderful area we are fortunate enough to call home.

Rob Davis Executive Editor, Pride Magazines

AN EXCITING NEW PARTNERSHIP

Breitling and Aston Martin

Breitling has joined Aston Martin and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team as their Official Watch Partner. There are certain partnerships that feel less like a commercial arrangement and more like a natural meeting of minds. The new alliance between Breitling and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team is one such collaboration, bringing together two brands whose histories have been shaped by speed, engineering excellence and timeless design. The partnership begins with the unveiling of the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team edition, a striking new timepiece that also marks Breitling’s return to Formula One.

For enthusiasts of either marque, the relationship feels inevitable. Aston Martin and Breitling have each spent more than a century perfecting their respective crafts, driven by an obsession with speed and an unwavering commitment to style.

Shared Histories of Speed

The roots of both companies stretch back to the earliest years of motoring and aviation. In 1907, Leon Breitling introduced the

Vitesse, a pioneering chronograph capable of measuring speeds up to 250 miles or kilometres per hour. Its remarkable accuracy led to its adoption by Swiss police, who used it to issue some of the world’s earliest speeding fines.

Across the Channel, Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford were establishing their own legacy in Britain. Competing in the Aston Hill Climb near Aston Clinton in Buckinghamshire, their specially prepared car achieved success on the steep chalk climb and inspired the name Aston Martin. Over the decades, both brands evolved into internationally recognised symbols of engineering sophistication and refined luxury.

Aston Martin became synonymous with elegant grand touring cars and motorsport pedigree, producing legendary models such as the DB5, Vantage and Vanquish. Breitling, meanwhile, cemented its reputation for highly technical chronographs designed for pilots, adventurers and professionals who demanded absolute precision.

A Formula 1 Debut

Their paths have crossed repeatedly throughout modern cultural history. In the 1950s, Aston Martin made its Formula One debut

When it appeared on Sean Connery’s wrist in Thunderball (1965) as the first Q-modified gadget watch in the James Bond franchise, it became an emblem of the era.

while racing icons Graham Hill and Jim Clark, both of whom were also qualified pilots, famously wore Breitling Navitimer watches. Originally launched in 1952 as a wrist-worn cockpit instrument for aviators, the Navitimer featured a circular slide rule that allowed pilots to calculate speed, fuel consumption and flight times. It quickly became as useful at the race circuit as it was in the skies.

Then came the 1960s, when both brands achieved cinematic immortality through James Bond. Sean Connery wore a Breitling Top Time in Thunderball, while Aston Martin’s DB5 became perhaps the most famous car in film history after appearing in Goldfinger and later Thunderball. Together they represented the glamour, sophistication and technical ingenuity that defined the era.

Precision and Performance

Today, those shared values continue to unite the two companies.

“Aston Martin builds cars that are as much about presence as performance,” says Georges Kern, Chief Executive Officer of Breitling.

“We share that same heritage of iconic design: every line, finish, and proportion has purpose. Nothing is left to chance.”

Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, believes the partnership reflects a mutual pursuit of excellence.

“Our pursuit of a World Championship demands partners who match our ambition,” he says. “Today, we're proud to welcome Breitling to the team. Beyond a shared heritage, we are united by values that drive everything we do. The precision, craftsmanship and engineering excellence we pursue at Aston Martin Aramco are lived and breathed by Breitling. We look forward to working together.”

Adrian Hallmark, Chief Executive Officer of Aston Martin, also highlighted the historical connection between the two names. “Aston Martin and Breitling have crossed paths at key moments in design and culture,” he says. “The partnership is a perfect showcase of

excellence, design mastery and performance, something that is integral to everything that Aston Martin puts its name to.”

A Watch Inspired by Formula One Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Edition is limited to just 1,959 pieces in tribute to Aston Martin’s first Formula One campaign in 1959. Its lightweight titanium case marks the first time the material has been used on a Navitimer model, while the dial features carbon-fibre-inspired detailing reminiscent of Formula One cockpit construction. Aston Martin Racing Green and vivid lime accents echo the team’s racing livery, creating a watch that feels unmistakably linked to the modern Formula One grid.

The leather strap takes inspiration from racing harnesses and enhanced low-light legibility ensures the chronograph remains functional in any environment. Turning the watch over reveals the Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01 movement through an open sapphire crystal caseback. COSC certified and offering a 70-hour power reserve, the movement has been engineered for absolute precision under pressure.

The specially designed matte black rotor is crafted from tungsten with a durable physical vapour deposition coating and features the Aston Martin Formula One Team logo. Additional engravings include “One of 1959” and the phrase “Instruments for Drivers.” For collectors and motorsport enthusiasts alike, it is likely to become one of the most desirable collaborations in recent years.

A Bold New Chapter

From cockpit instruments to racing chronographs, from Aston Hill to Formula One, Breitling and Aston Martin have spent more than a century pursuing speed in their own distinctive ways. Now, that pursuit enters a bold new chapter together.

www.breitling.com.

LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND

Celebrity guests, thrilling entertainment and even a Guinness World Record attempt are set to make this year’s Lincolnshire Show one of the most exciting yet.

The county’s biggest celebration of food, farming and the countryside returns to the Lincolnshire Showground on 17th and 18th June 2026, welcoming more than 65,000 visitors across two packed days.

Among the headline attractions are two familiar television faces. JLS singer, presenter and farmer JB Gill will appear on Wednesday 17th June, bringing with him a passion for British farming developed through his own North Kent farm business.

On Thursday 18th June, actor, TV personality and Strictly Come Dancing champion Kelvin Fletcher will visit the show, following the success of ITV’s Fletcher’s Family Farm, which has showcased his family’s rural life.

The White Hart Hotel Main Ring will once again provide spectacular entertainment throughout the event, including a Guinness World Record attempt as competitors race against the clock to assemble and engage a combine harvester header in record time.

Visitors can also look forward to a Polo Chukka featuring Dart Polo versus Sunbrave Polo of India, the Heavy Horse of the Year Show Qualifier, British Show

Jumping and the ever-popular Shetland Pony Grand National.

Elsewhere, highlights include displays from the RAF Falcons, motocross stunts from Squibb Freestyle FMX and performances by the Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue Band.

Returning after its successful debut in 2025 is the Rural Voices Stage, offering expert-led discussions on farming, sustainability and countryside issues.

Charlotte Powell, Chief Executive of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, says this year’s event will be “bigger and better than ever,” with new attractions, returning favourites and opportunities to celebrate everything that makes Lincolnshire special.

Advanced tickets are on sale now at £28 for adults, £10 for children and £70 for a family ticket, with full details available at www.lincolnshireshow.co.uk.

CHIC Holiday

Effortless beachwear essentials: kaftans, flowing trousers, and chic cover­ups to elevate your holiday style this season

Cover ups are no longer just a simple layer they are now an essential part of your beach or poolside look. Lightweight kaftans in soft linen or airy chiffon are perfect for comfort and elegance draped over your favourite swimsuit. Flowing trousers and wide-leg palazzos create a relaxed yet sophisticated silhouette that works beautifully for moving from the sand to a casual lunch or evening stroll.

Tunics and embroidered shirts add a touch of luxury while sheer kimonos bring effortless movement and versatility. Mix prints with solids to suit your mood tropical florals add playfulness while pastels and classic white provide understated elegance.

Choosing the right colours ensures that each piece can be combined with others in your wardrobe for maximum impact. Lightweight jumpsuits are also gaining popularity offering a one-piece solution that is both comfortable and stylish.

Practical details are key. Lightweight fabrics with pockets and adjustable ties make wearing cover ups simple and comfortable. Layering is essential throw on a breezy kaftan over your swimwear in the morning then switch to flowing trousers and a tunic for a relaxed lunch or evening stroll. Accessories such as oversized hats stylish sandals and a chic tote instantly elevate the look. Scarves and delicate jewellery can also transform a simple cover up into a complete outfit that feels considered and polished.

Sustainable fabrics are increasingly popular organic cottons eco-friendly linens and recycled materials allow you to look stylish while making thoughtful choices. From relaxed elegance to bold statement pieces versatile cover ups mean you are always ready for whatever your holiday brings.

Investing in well-chosen pieces makes your beach wardrobe functional flattering and effortlessly stylish. Kaftans trousers tunics flowing skirts and jumpsuits have evolved into the cornerstone of any summer-ready ensemble combining comfort with timeless fashion. Thoughtful layering and smart accessories ensure that each outfit feels personal and put together while remaining light and easy to wear.

Opposite: Printed swimsuit in Khaki, £189. Yarn­dyed linen jacket, £169. Double­strap suede sandals, £199. Shell raffia bag, £110. Printed pareo, £69. Yarn­dyed pull­on linen trousers, £175, www.poetryfashion.co.uk.

FASHION

www.aspiga.com.

blend button­down

£68. www.anthropologie.com.

Right: Aqua sparkly silk designer beach cover up, £195. www.lindseybrown.com.

Below: Cutwork beach dress garment­dyed linen, £255. www.wraplondon.co.uk.

Right: Dea Kudibal Sabrina paisley print kaftan style silk dress grand paisley ocean, £429, www.sisteronline.co.uk. Danse des Vagues beach cover up, £167, www.lisecharmel.com. ti Cuiti floral print maxi kaftan, £110, www.monsoon.co.uk.

Left: Aqua pebbles silk kaftan, £195, www.sophia­alexia.com.

Bahabini mini kaftan dress in Amalfi print, £79, www.outdazl.com.

Side tie kaftan dress white black embroidered, £139, www.boden.com.

Below: Palmaria caftan in crème rouge, £299, www.maryanmehlhorn.com.

mytheresa.com

SUMMER SHADE SUBTLE SHINE

Black and natural raffia sun hats bring effortless Riviera elegance, offering chic sun protection with sculptural brims, textured finishes and timeless neutral tones perfect for stylish summer days at home or abroad.

£195, mulberry.com

Metallic gold and silver kitten heel mules offer understated glamour, combining comfort with elegance. Perfect for summer occasions, they add a refined shimmer to both daytime looks and evening ensembles.

bottegaveneta.com

Relaxed Elegance for Warm Days

STYLE FOR MEN

ORLEBAR BROWN DEFINES SUMMER SOPHISTICATION with relaxed yet tailored menswear perfect for holidays or sunny weekends. From impeccably cut swim shorts and day shorts to crisp linen shirts and lightweight trousers, all balancing style and comfort effortlessly.

Polos, jackets, and accessories complete the seasonal wardrobe, offering versatility that transitions seamlessly from poolside to evening drinks. Classic prints, subtle patterns, and breathable fabrics ensure every look feels polished, relaxed, and distinctly Orlebar Brown.

Left Hand Page: The Davey sunglasses in tortoise shell/agave, £295. Bulldog swim shorts with exclusive carnival print in vermillion, £295. Ridley linen shirt, relaxed fit in cream and tarragon green, £345. Ridley open resort placket shirt with tonal edge stitch in macaron pink, £345. Alex cotton linen trouser in Thasos Beach, £345. Velo Italian silk scarf, white sand, £150. Right Hand Page: Alvaro cotton linen jacket with two­way zip in sabbia, £595. Canet ribbed stitch knit polo shirt in white sand, £395. Laurent bermuda shorts in Thasos Beach, £295. Maitan, soft seersucker, capri collar shirt in vermillion, £345. Larson O.B stripe shoe you can swim in, white/orange/aquamarine, £195.

CLASSIC FIREPLACES

If you’re seeking to elevate the heart of your home with both elegance and warmth, look no further than Classic Fireplaces in Market Deeping. With over 40 years’ experience in design, manufacture and installation, this family-run specialist brings a wealth of craftsmanship and trusted knowledge to every project.

As well as bespoke surrounds, the company offers an extensive selection of premium fires and stoves. What truly sets Classic Fireplaces apart is its bespoke manufacturing capability. Each fireplace surround is made to order, allowing customers to choose the exact dimensions, materials and finishes that best suit their interior. This attention to detail ensures every installation is perfectly tailored, becoming a beautiful and enduring feature of the home. Call 01778 347267 or see www.classicfireplaces.co.uk.

LAKE COMO

Striking landscape remains one of the world’s most luxurious destinations

Set against the dramatic foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como has long been one of Europe’s most glamorous and romantic holiday destinations. With its elegant villas, charming lakeside towns and spectacular mountain scenery, it combines Italian sophistication with breathtaking natural beauty. For generations it has attracted aristocrats, artists, film stars and discerning travellers seeking tranquillity, culture and understated luxury, yet despite its reputation for exclusivity, Lake Como remains wonderfully welcoming and deeply authentic.

Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, around an hour from Milan, Lake Como is shaped like an inverted Y, with three long branches stretching into the mountains. It is one of the deepest lakes in Europe and perhaps the most visually striking, with steep wooded slopes descending dramatically into sparkling blue water. Around its shoreline sit picturesque villages and grand historic estates, many framed by cypress trees, olive groves and flowering gardens.

The scenery is central to Lake Como’s enduring appeal. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy view, whether it is a tiny harbour filled with wooden boats, a terraced hillside covered in vines or a grand villa reflected in the still waters of the lake. Throughout the day the colours constantly shift, from the soft haze of early morning to the golden light that settles over the mountains in the evening. Even in the height of summer there is an atmosphere of calm elegance rather than frantic tourism.

One of the pleasures of visiting Lake Como is simply exploring the lakeside towns that each possess their own distinct character. Como itself, at the southern end of the lake, is a lively and sophisticated city known for its silk production, elegant shopping streets and impressive cathedral. Bellagio, often described as the pearl of the lake, sits at the point where the lake divides into its three branches and is famed for its cobbled lanes, luxurious hotels and sweeping views across the water. Elsewhere, villages such as Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo offer quieter charms, with pastelcoloured buildings, waterfront cafés and flower filled promenades.

Travel on the lake is an experience in itself. Ferries and water taxis glide between towns throughout the day, allowing visitors to admire the landscape from the water just as generations of travellers have done before. There is something timeless about arriving by boat at a grand villa or stepping ashore beside an ancient church framed by mountains. The lake encourages visitors to slow down and savour every detail.

Luxury is woven naturally into the atmosphere of Lake Como, although rarely in an ostentatious way. Historic grand hotels line parts of the shoreline, many dating back to the nineteenth century when European nobility first discovered the region. These elegant properties offer manicured gardens, refined dining rooms and terraces overlooking the water where guests can linger over aperitifs as the sun sets behind the mountains. Private villas, many hidden behind stone walls and shaded by ancient trees, add to the sense of exclusivity and romance.

“It is a destination where nature still feels pristine, where silence is broken only by the rustle of palms and the sound of waves gently reaching the shore...”

The area’s cultural heritage is equally rich. For centuries Lake Como has inspired writers, composers and artists who found inspiration in its peaceful beauty. The composer Franz Liszt, the novelist Stendhal and the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley all admired the lake, while modern filmmakers continue to use it as a backdrop for cinema thanks to its timeless elegance. Walking through the gardens of historic villas such as Villa Carlotta or Villa del Balbianello, visitors encounter ornate architecture, sculptures and botanical collections that reflect centuries of wealth and artistic patronage.

Italian culture is deeply embedded in daily life around the lake. Mornings begin with espresso in lively cafés while afternoons stretch lazily into evenings filled with conversation, wine and long dinners beside the water. The pace is unhurried and sociable, encouraging visitors to embrace the pleasures of good food, beautiful surroundings and simple rituals.

Above: View of the city Mezzegra, Via Statale.

Markets selling local produce, artisan shops and family-run trattorias ensure that despite the lake’s glamorous reputation, authenticity remains at its heart. Outdoor activities also play an important role in the Lake Como experience. The surrounding mountains provide opportunities for hiking and cycling, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints high above the lake. Sailing, paddleboarding and swimming are popular during the warmer months, while nearby alpine regions offer skiing during winter. This combination of relaxation and activity broadens the lake’s appeal beyond romance alone.

Perhaps what makes Lake Como so memorable is the way it balances grandeur with intimacy. It is undeniably luxurious, yet it never feels artificial. Beneath the elegant hotels and celebrity associations lies a region shaped by centuries of local tradition and close connection to the landscape.

Food &Drink

The cuisine of Lake Como is rooted in northern Italian tradition, shaped by the lake itself and the surrounding Alpine landscape.

Freshwater fish such as perch, trout and whitefish appear regularly on local menus, often served simply with herbs, olive oil and polenta, a regional staple. Risotto is another defining dish, especially risotto al pesce persico, made with delicately fried perch fillets from the lake.

The area’s mountain influence brings rich cheeses, cured meats and hearty rustic dishes, balanced by elegant Lombard cooking and excellent local wines.

Olive groves thrive in the lake’s mild microclimate, producing light, fragrant oils used throughout the region. In lakeside towns such as Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, visitors will also discover refined restaurants serving handmade pasta,

seasonal vegetables and sophisticated interpretations of traditional recipes.

Dining beside the water is an essential part of the Lake Como experience, whether enjoying a leisurely espresso in a sunny piazza or a candlelit dinner overlooking the lake at sunset. The food reflects the region perfectly: relaxed, stylish and unmistakably Italian.

Attractions

Bellagio: Often described as the jewel of Lake Como, Bellagio sits at the point where the lake divides into two branches. Its elegant waterfront, narrow cobbled lanes and colourful villas make it one of the area’s most photographed destinations.

Varenna: Quieter and more romantic than some of the larger resorts, Varenna is known for its pastel­coloured houses and peaceful lakeside promenade. Visitors can explore Villa Monastero and its spectacular botanical gardens overlooking the water.

Menaggio: On the western shore, Menaggio combines lively cafés and grand lakeside hotels with easy access to hiking trails and ferries across the lake. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it popular with both walkers and families.

Villa del Balbianello: Perhaps Lake Como’s most famous landmark, this historic villa stands on a wooded peninsula near Lenno. Surrounded by terraced gardens, it has appeared in films including Casino Royale and Star Wars.

Como: The city of Como offers elegant shopping streets, impressive architecture and a beautiful cathedral at its centre. A funicular railway climbs from the city to Brunate, providing panoramic views across the lake and mountains.

Tremezzo: Tremezzo is home to the magnificent Villa Carlotta, renowned for its art collections and beautifully landscaped gardens filled with azaleas, camellias and exotic plants. The lakeside setting is especially spectacular in spring and early summer.

Villa Melzi Gardens: Set on the shoreline in Bellagio, the gardens of Villa Melzi are among Lake Como’s most peaceful attractions. Pathways lined with exotic trees, sculptures and colourful flowers lead visitors beside the water, creating spectacular views across the lake.

Accommodation

Grand Hotel Tremezzo

One of Lake Como’s most iconic addresses, Grand Hotel Tremezzo has welcomed glamorous guests since 1910. Overlooking Bellagio and the Grigne mountains, the hotel combines Belle Époque elegance with five­star luxury, including floating swimming pools, private boats and a world­class spa. Rooms and suites are richly furnished, while its lakeside terraces offer unforgettable sunset views.

Guide price around €1,200/night. www.grandhoteltremezzo.com.

Villa d’Este

Set within 25 acres of landscaped gardens in Cernobbio, Villa d’Este is widely regarded as one of Europe’s finest hotels. Originally a sixteenth­century villa, it has hosted royalty, celebrities and politicians for decades. Guests can enjoy opulent suites, exquisite dining and the hotel’s famous floating pool on the lake.

Guide price approximately €1,500/night. www.villadeste.com.

Mandarin Oriental

Occupying a secluded lakeside setting in Blevio, the Mandarin Oriental brings contemporary luxury to one of Lake Como’s most historic estates.

The hotel combines elegant nineteenthcentury villas with sleek modern interiors, offering guests private terraces, fine dining and an award­winning spa overlooking the water. Beautiful gardens descend directly to the lake, while the peaceful atmosphere provides a more exclusive alternative to the busier resorts.

Guide price approximately €1,300/night. www.mandarinoriental.com/lake-como.

Travel Arrangements

Travelling to Lake Como from the UK is straightforward, with direct flights available from several regional airports including London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham to Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate.

Flight times are approximately two hours, with return fares typically starting from around £120 per person in low season, rising considerably during summer.

From Milan, Lake Como can be reached in around an hour by private transfer, hire car or regular train services.

Italian is the official language, although English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas.

The local currency is the Euro, and major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, though carrying some cash is useful for cafés, ferries and smaller shops.

Getting around the lake is part of the experience itself. Ferries connect many of the principal towns including Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, offering spectacular scenery from the water. Private boat hire is also popular, while taxis can be expensive.

Visitors should expect a relaxed but stylish atmosphere. Smart­casual dress is appreciated in restaurants and luxury hotels, especially during the evening.

Italians tend to dine later than in the UK, with dinner often beginning after 7.30pm. A polite greeting when entering shops or restaurants is customary and always appreciated.

YOUR NEW FRIENDLY LOCAL TRAVEL EXPERTS…

OPEN NOW IN LOUTH, KIRTON NEAR BOSTON & LINCOLN, OPENING SOON IN SPALDING

Your new friendly local travel experts, Your Dreams Travel, are now open in Louth, Kirton (Boston), and will open soon in Lincoln and Spalding on high streets near you!

Our 24 members of staff have over 500 years of combined experience in the industry. The same familiar faces you know and trust are now setting off on an exciting new journey of their own - wherever you dream of going, we’re here to help you get there!

We’re more than travel agents—we’re trusted advisors, problem-solvers, and dream-makers. By truly listening to our customers, we create personalised journeys that reflect their needs, preferences, and aspirations. With expert destination knowledge, strong supplier relationships, and access to exceptional deals, we aim to deliver seamless, stress-free travel experiences every time.

We are a travel agency group driven by one clear purpose: turning your holiday dreams into reality.

Enjoy a complimentary bottle of Prosecco with every new holiday booking! Simply quote “BUBBLES” at the time of booking— because every great getaway deserves a celebratory pop!

Visit our website or follow us on Facebook, scan the following QR code:

ON SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA AT MABULA LODGE

10 days now from £2,720pp SAVE UP TO 15%*

Departing August 2026 to December 2028

On this immersive, family friendly tour, you’ll get the chance to really settle into your breathtaking surroundings as you spend a blissful, all­inclusive stay at the Mabula Game Lodge. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the UNESCO­listed Waterberg Mountains, the Mabula Private Game Reserve boasts diverse landscapes and habitats, perfect for the free­roaming 'Big Five' and other wonderful creatures, making this a perfect family friendly safari holiday that you’ll never forget!

n Seven nights’ all­inclusive, staying at the Mabula Game Lodge.

n Six safaris into the Mabula Private Game Reserve.

n Traditional bush lunch and a stargazing session.

n Seven breakfasts, lunches and dinners with daily high teas.

n Wildlife talk, bush walk & visit to the Hornbill Project.

n Return flights and comfortable, air­conditioned transfers.

Eastgate, Louth LN11 9PL

01507 665753

PUGLIA AND THE SOUTH: UNDISCOVERED ITALY

Departing August 2026 to October 2027

8 days now from £1,113pp SAVE UP TO 15%*

Enjoy rest and relaxation on the shores of the Adriatic, and take in the often­overlooked delights of Italy’s sun­kissed southern 'high heel'. Full of highlights, this hugely enjoyable holiday in Puglia is based on the shores of the Adriatic and lifts the veil on a fascinating region of Southern Italy. Included is the opportunity to discover Castellana's famous cave network, wine­producing Locorotondo and elegant Martina Franca, on an optional excursion, complete a wonderful stay.

n Seven nights' dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation at the four­star Hotel del Levante, Torre Canne.

n Spend seven nights beside the brilliant blue Adriatic Sea.

n Tours of Lecce and the cave network at Matera.

n A tour of Apulia, Cisternino, Ostuni and Alberobello.

n Discover the UNESCO­listed Matera's Sassi cave­dwellings.

n Witness hilltop Ostuni’s white walls gleaming in the sun.

louth@yourdreamstravel.co.uk Willington Road, Kirton PE20 1EH 01205 805682 boston@yourdreamstravel.co.uk Burton Road, Lincoln LN1 3LN 01522 712586 lincoln@yourdreamstravel.co.uk

n Return flights to Bari. Coach travel &transfers throughout.

Market Place, Spalding PE11 1SL 01775 888561

spalding@yourdreamstravel.co.uk

TOYOTA’S UNSTOPPABLE

LAND CRUISER

What happens when an immovable force meets an unstoppable object?

If the unstoppable object in question is Toyota’s Land Cruiser, chances are you just drive over it. At £81,000 it ought to be luxurious, rugged... but most of all, brave enough to compete with Land Rover’s Defender

Words: Rob Davis.

Land Cruiser or Defender? It’s a more difficult choice than you might think. When Land Rover revealed the ‘new’ Defender in 2020, some initially dismissed it as just another luxury SUV, lacking its forebears’ inclination to carry hay bales and have its interior hosed out.

The thing is, any farmer or landowner who has that use case now invariably has a telehandler or a Gator-style UTV. And if they’re happy to have a single ‘dirty work’ vehicle, there are a range of pick-ups, most with a bit of luxury about them these days. The use case of the old Defender just isn’t there any more. Defender’s prowess off-road surprised nobody, but the fact that it was so very good on-road was a very pleasant surprise all round.

It’s been a runaway sales success for JLR, the highest-selling product in the company’s portfolio, selling around 115,000 units a year. So anyone competing against it is going to live in its shadow, right?

Not necessarily. Toyota’s Land Cruiser is arguably its most direct competitor, and dates back to 1951, and with 14 major generations sharing the same name. Over 11.3m Land Cruisers have been sold and it’s favoured by organisations like the United Nations, Red Cross, and Médecins Sans Frontières.

The new Land Cruiser and the Defender both have plenty of off-road capability, very comfortable interiors, plenty of tech and tonnes of space... worldwide both are available with seven seats too, although the UK market favours Land Cruiser’s five-seat version.

The two arch-rivals are the same, but different... Defender is the more urban-looking of the two, but the Land Cruiser is just as charming, albeit in a more utilitarian way. Our test car came in a metallic sand shade, which is quite retro and divided opinion: I loved it as it suits the muscular vehicle; but some colleagues reckoned it was dated.

What’s not dated though is the off-road tech, and you can’t even say that the Land Cruiser is analogue in its off-road execution, like the Ineos Grenadier. The latter is an also-ran in this category, because it’s just too uncivilised on-road, and too compromised day-to-day compared to the Toyota and Land Rover.

The Land Cruiser has a dial to select on-road modes (Sport feels a bit redundant) and offroad terrain, but you can use a simple rocker switch to activate low-range gears, and push-buttons to lock centre and rear diffs, activate hill-descent control and detach the car’s stabiliser bars, enabling greater axle articulation.

For serious off-roading, Land Cruiser requires a bit more intervention than the ‘just let me handle it’ Defender. Does that make it better off-road? Perhaps, in extremis.

However, I’d point out that if you’re driving somewhere that even a Defender might not handle, you probably shouldn’t be there. Also, a good off-road driver in a less well-specified 4x4 will always be better than a brilliant 4x4 being piloted by a novice off-roader... also, your choice of tyres makes a huge difference.

MOTORS

On-road, Defender rides beautifully on the 110’s air suspension, but the Land Cruiser, whilst a large vehicle, is still beautifully set up, with body roll controlled, and suspension comfortable but with a nicely firm edge.

Whilst the Defender is available with a four-cylinder PHEV-augmented engine, it otherwise relies on six or eight-cylinder engines. Land Cruiser, meanwhile, is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel mild-hybrid unit. Does that make it underpowered?

You’d think so on paper, but actually it’s a rather nice engine, with decent torque. It’s a bit gruff, but in a charming way, and whilst the Land Cruiser is never going to be a sports car (the Defender D250 reaches 60mph in 7.9 seconds compared to the Land Cruiser’s 12.3 seconds), its performance is still sufficient for overtaking.

What did impress me after a week in the Land Cruiser is its economy. The diesel engine settles to 1,500rpm on an A-road or motorway, and to a relatively quiet cruise. My average was 32mpg out of town, which is actually more than Toyota’s official WLTP figure.

Inside it’s more of the same... conventional compared to modern cars (especially EVs) which do everything via a touchscreen. The Land Rover and Land Cruiser each use physical controls for heating and off-road controls.

Land Rover’s touchscreen dominates the interior a bit more but the Land Cruiser’s driving position really is delightful. You sit high up, it’s all very chunky, and build quality is superb. The seats are supportive and have a very soft, supple leather as standard. Only one interior colour is available so you’d better like black, and there’s no multi-colour ambient lighting (that’s anathema to what the Land Cruiser is), but as a place to spend time it’s practical, logical and definitely worthy of the car’s price tag.

At nearly £81,000, the Land Cruiser is over £5,000 more expensive than a Land Rover 110 HSE. So which is better? There’s nothing between them when judged with your head. This is definitely a case of which appeals more to your heart: the chunky, endearing Land Cruiser with its no-nonsense approach, or Defender, the fashionable, modern iteration of a British motoring legend... on balance, I think I lean more towards the latter.

Toyota Land Cruiser

Invincible 2.8­litre MHEV

Price: £80,945.

Engine: 2.8 Diesel 48V, automatic, full­time 4x4 with high/low range gears.

Performance: 105mph, 0­60mph 12.3secs.

Economy: 26mpg, CO2 281g/km.

Equipment: Toyota Connect with wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Heated and ventilated front and rear seats, full leather. Heated steering wheel, JBL­branded hi­fi, power tailgate, electric panoramic roof, electrically adjustable seats. Head up display, 360° camera, adaptive cruise.

Sport A Summer of

Wimbledon, The Open and the British Grand Prix

There is something uniquely British about the sporting season in high summer. Strawberries and cream on Henman Hill, champagne beside the fairways at Royal Birkdale and the thunder of Formula One engines across Silverstone all combine to create a social calendar as important as the sporting contests themselves. Across June and July, Britain becomes host to some of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, attracting millions of television viewers and hundreds of thousands of spectators.

Wimbledon

The Championships at Wimbledon remain the jewel in Britain’s sporting crown. First staged in 1877, Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and the only Grand Slam still played on grass courts. Held over two weeks at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in southwest London, the tournament welcomes 128 competitors in both the Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Singles draws, alongside doubles, mixed doubles and junior competitions.

Last year’s singles champions were Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Świątek, with Świątek securing her first Wimbledon title in emphatic fashion.

The tournament culminates with the Ladies’ Singles Final on the Saturday and the Gentlemen’s Final on the Sunday, watched by a worldwide television audience of millions. In Britain, coverage is broadcast extensively by the BBC, with Centre Court matches becoming an essential part of the summer schedule.

Wimbledon is as famous for its traditions as it is for its tennis. Players continue to wear all-white clothing, Royal Box appearances are

carefully scrutinised and spectators consume around 140,000 portions of strawberries and cream during the fortnight. The famous dessert has been associated with Wimbledon for generations and remains one of the most charming rituals in British sport.

Celebrity spotting has become part of the appeal too, with actors, musicians, royalty and sports stars filling Centre Court throughout the championships. The atmosphere combines sporting intensity with a distinctly elegant social scene, helped along by glasses of Pimms and immaculate summer tailoring.

Attendance across the fortnight regularly exceeds half a million visitors, while over a million people typically apply for tickets through the famous Wimbledon ballot system. For those without tickets, the tradition of “The Queue” still offers the chance to gain entry on the day, often after an overnight wait in Wimbledon Park.

Prize money continues to rise each year, with singles winners receiving around £3 million each. Yet despite the money and global attention, Wimbledon somehow retains a distinctly English charm that no other sporting event can quite replicate.

The Open Championship, Royal Birkdale Golf’s oldest major championship returns to Royal Birkdale in Southport this summer, bringing the world’s finest golfers back to one of England’s greatest links courses. First played in 1860, The Open Championship is steeped in history and remains the ultimate test of links golf, where wind, weather and patience matter as much as power.

Opposite: Scottie Scheffler, 2025 winner of the 153rd Open Championship, placed number one at Royal Portrush Golf Club in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

The tournament features a field of 156 competitors from around the world, all hoping to lift the famous Claret Jug after four rounds of championship golf. After two rounds, the field is reduced by the traditional halfway cut before the final weekend decides the Champion Golfer of the Year.

Last year’s Open champion was Scottie Scheffler, who claimed victory at Royal Portrush with a dominant performance to secure his first Claret Jug and fourth major title.

Royal Birkdale is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging venues on The Open rota, with towering dunes and narrow fairways demanding absolute precision. The course has previously crowned champions including Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Jordan Spieth.

The Open attracts more than 250,000 spectators during championship week, many arriving not only for the golf but also for the social atmosphere around the hospitality pavilions and grandstands. Corporate entertaining has become a major part of the event, with premium dining experiences and champagne terraces overlooking the course.

Sky Sports provides live coverage throughout all four days, with highlights broadcast on the BBC each evening. For spectators attending in person, practice days earlier in the week often provide the best opportunity to watch players up close in a more relaxed environment.

Formula One at Silverstone

If Wimbledon represents tradition and The Open offers refinement, Silverstone delivers pure spectacle. The British Grand Prix has been held at Silverstone since the very first Formula One World Championship race in 1950 and remains one of the highlights of the modern sporting calendar.

Twenty Formula One drivers representing ten teams compete across practice sessions, qualifying and Sunday’s Grand Prix itself. The circuit’s sweeping corners at Maggotts and Becketts are considered among the greatest sequences in world motorsport and offer some of the best viewing for spectators.

Last year’s British Grand Prix winner was Britain’s own Lando Norris, who delighted the home crowd by taking victory for McLaren in front of record attendances at Silverstone.

The popularity of Formula One has exploded in recent years and Silverstone now attracts crowds of more than 450,000 across the race weekend, making it one of the largest sporting events in Britain. Fans arrive from across Europe, many camping trackside for the full weekend.

The British Grand Prix has become as much a celebrity and lifestyle event as a sporting contest, with concerts, luxury hospitality suites and famous faces appearing throughout the paddock. Sky Sports broadcasts every session live, while Channel 4 continues to provide highlights coverage for terrestrial viewers.

The World Cup

This summer also sees the FIFA World Cup continuing in North America, ensuring football remains impossible to escape entirely. Argentina arrive as defending champions following their victory in the last tournament, while England supporters will once again hope for success on the international stage. Matches will be broadcast live across the BBC and ITV.

Formula One British Grand Prix, Silverstone, 3rd–5th July, www.silverstone.co.uk. The Championships, Wimbledon, 29th June–12th July, www.wimbledon.com. The Open Championship, Royal Birkdale, 16th–19th July, www.theopen.com.

The Natural World

As summer reaches its height, the countryside comes alive with colour, birdsong and wildlife. From flower-filled meadows and ancient woodland to peaceful waterways and thriving wetlands

July is one of the richest months in the countryside calendar. Hedgerows are heavy with growth, fields shimmer beneath warm skies and the natural world seems alive with movement and colour from dawn until dusk. Midsummer reveals nature at its most abundant, offering a season filled with birdsong, wildflowers and thriving wildlife.

Wildflowers & Meadows

By July, roadside verges, meadows and grassy banks are transformed into ribbons of colour. Wildflowers reach their peak during the height of summer, creating a patchwork of purples, yellows, whites and pinks that attract insects in remarkable numbers. Oxeye daisies sway among tall grasses while knapweed, field scabious and red clover provide a valuable source of nectar for bees and butterflies.

Traditional hay meadows are especially beautiful at this time of year. Once common across the countryside, these rich grasslands support an extraordinary variety of plant life and remain one of the most important habitats for pollinators. Warm weather encourages clouds of butterflies to dance above the flowers, with species such as meadow brown, gatekeeper and common blue frequently seen fluttering between blooms.

The gentle hum of insects is one of the defining sounds of July. Bees move tirelessly from flower to flower while dragonflies patrol sunlit edges of long grass.

Woodland & Trees

Woodland in July offers welcome shade and coolness beneath dense green canopies. Mature trees are in full leaf and ancient hedgerows provide shelter for wildlife seeking refuge from the heat of the day. Oak, ash and beech trees stand rich with summer foliage while silver birch catches the sunlight with its pale bark and delicate leaves. >>

>> Woodland floors are quieter now than during spring, though there is still plenty to discover. Ferns spread across damp ground and foxgloves continue to flower in clearings and along paths. Young squirrels dart through branches collecting early seeds while deer often emerge cautiously during the cooler hours of morning and evening.

Hedgerows are especially important during midsummer. Hawthorn and elder begin to develop berries that will sustain birds later in the year, while thick vegetation provides nesting cover and protection for small mammals. Brambles start to flower, promising blackberries by late summer and attracting insects in impressive numbers.

Birdlife in July

July is a busy month for bird life as fledglings continue to appear across gardens, fields and open countryside. Young birds are often seen perched awkwardly on fences or fluttering uncertainly through hedgerows while attentive parents remain close by with a constant supply of food.

Swallows and house martins sweep gracefully through summer skies hunting insects above farmland and waterways, whilst skylarks continue to sing above open fields while blackbirds and thrushes can still be heard during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk. Birds of prey are also easier to spot in warm weather, circling high above open land on rising currents of air.

Wildlife & Insects

Warm July evenings bring increased activity from mammals and insects. Rabbits emerge cautiously to graze while foxes begin to roam along field edges and quiet lanes after sunset. Bats can often be seen darting through twilight skies hunting moths and midges with astonishing speed and agility.

Butterflies are among the stars of midsummer. Peacock, red admiral and painted lady butterflies add flashes of colour to gardens and wild spaces, while bees continue their vital work among flowering plants. Ladybirds, shield bugs and grasshoppers all thrive during periods of warm weather. Dragonflies and damselflies are especially active in July. Their shimmering wings catch the sunlight as they hover above reeds and grasses, providing one of the most striking spectacles of the season.

Waterways & Wetlands

Ponds, streams and wetlands are full of life during midsummer. Reeds sway gently at the water's edge while water lilies spread broad green leaves across still surfaces. Frogs and toads remain active in damp margins and fish can often be glimpsed beneath clear water in bright sunlight.

Wetlands provide essential habitat for insects and birds alike. Herons stand motionless in shallow water while ducks guide nearly grown ducklings through sheltered pools and channels. Reed beds offer nesting places and protection for smaller birds hidden among the dense vegetation. On warm evenings, waterways become peaceful places alive with sound. The splash of fish, the buzz of insects and the soft rustle of reeds combine to create a calm and timeless atmosphere that captures the very essence of an English summer.

Heroic Hedgerows

Hedgerows are among the most important and distinctive features of the British countryside, shaping the landscape while supporting an extraordinary range of wildlife. Across the UK there are more than 500,000 miles of hedgerows, with England home to some of the highest hedge densities anywhere in the world. In fact, England’s hedgerows are extensive enough to circle the Earth ten times.

More than 40% of Britain’s hedges are considered ancient or species rich, many dating back to before the eighteenth century Enclosure Acts. Some are believed to be over 900 years old. Hawthorn is the most common hedgerow shrub, though older hedges often include blackthorn, hazel, field maple and dogwood.

Hedgerows are vital habitats for wildlife, supporting over 2,000 species including 600 plant species, 1,500 insects, 65 bird species and 20 mammal species. They provide shelter, nesting sites and important wildlife corridors, allowing creatures such as bats and dormice to move safely through the countryside.

Their environmental value is equally significant. Hedgerows help reduce soil erosion, filter pollution, absorb carbon and provide natural shelter for livestock during harsh weather. They also play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and protecting biodiversity.

Despite their importance, more than 118,000 miles of hedgerow have been lost since the 1950s, largely due to agricultural intensification. Restoration efforts are now under way, with plans to create or restore tens of thousands of kilometres of hedgerows over the coming decades.

Almanac

July

Zodiac: Cancer until 22nd July, then Leo, both associated with warmth, loyalty and a love of home and celebration.

Birthstone: Ruby, symbolising passion, protection and prosperity.

Notable Dates: 4th July: Independence Day in the United States. 7th July: World Chocolate Day. 15th July: St Swithin’s Day. 30th July: International Friendship Day.

In The Garden: Roses at their peak, lavender ready for cutting, deadhead borders and water regularly in dry spells.

Seasonal Table: Cherries, raspberries, peas, broad beans, new potatoes and summer salads.

On The Farm: Haymaking continues, wheat begins to ripen, sheep shearing underway, and long days keep farmers busy from dawn until dusk.

ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY

Folklore: July in Britain carries echoes of ancient midsummer traditions, when communities gathered to celebrate warmth, abundance and light. Although the summer solstice falls in June, its spirit lingers into July with village fetes, church fairs and garden parties. St Swithin’s Day on 15th July is steeped in folklore, with the belief that rain on this day foretells forty days of wet weather. Lammas preparations begin towards the end of the month, marking the first wheat harvest and the baking of ceremonial loaves. In many rural areas, agricultural shows take place, celebrating livestock, crafts and local produce, continuing traditions that date back centuries. Coastal towns embrace regattas and maritime festivals, often accompanied by brass bands and evening fireworks. July is also the season for Wimbledon, a thoroughly British institution combining sport, strawberries and a sense of occasion.

Altogether, the month reflects a gentle blend of heritage and leisure, rooted in the rhythms of the countryside and community life.

IN OTHER WORDS

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.”

Helen Keller, author and disability rights advocate

WEATHER WATCH

Daytime highs average 21 to 23 degrees, with overnight lows around 12 degrees. Rainfall is typically 50 to 60 millimetres. Sunrise is around 4.45am, sunset near 9.20pm, giving over 16 hours of daylight.

THE BBC PROMS

The BBC Proms began in 1895, founded by impresario Robert Newman and conductor Sir Henry Wood, who wanted to make classical music accessible to a wider audience rather than just London’s social elite.

Their idea was simple but revolutionary: audiences could attend inexpensive ‘promenade concerts,’ standing in the arena and moving freely rather than sitting formally in expensive seats. The concerts were first held at Queen’s Hall in London, with Sir Henry Wood conducting many of the performances himself for almost half a century. The Proms quickly became known for introducing audiences to new music alongside popular classical favourites. During the Second World War, Queen’s Hall was destroyed during the Blitz in 1941, forcing the festival to relocate to the Royal Albert Hall, where it remains today.

In 1927, the BBC took over management of the Proms, helping the festival grow into an internationally respected celebration of classical music.

ON YOUR TV AT THE CINEMA IN THE CHARTS

July 1965: The Rolling Stones released (ICan’t Get No_

Satisfaction. July 1973: Pink Floyd release Dark Side of the Moon. July 1977: The Eagles release Hotel California, a title track of their new album.

July 1966: England’s World Cup 4­2 Victory at Wembley. “They think it’s all over… it is now!”

July 1969: Millions of British viewers stayed awake to watch Neil Armstrong become the first man on the Moon.

July 1975: Jaws opens in UK cinemas with its iconic tense strings. July 1993: Jurassic Park reaches UK cinemas bringing Michael Crichton’s novel to the big screen.

TRIVIA, FOLKLORE AND HISTORY

FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN JULY

HATCHED, MATCHED & DISPATCHED

Hatched: Princess Diana born 1st July 1961. Author J K Rowling born 31st July 1965.

Matched: David and Victoria Beckham married 4th July 1999 at Luttrellstown Castle in Ireland and remain one of Britain’s most enduring celebrity couples.

Dispatched: Singer Amy Winehouse died 23rd July 2011 at the age of just 27. Jane Austen died 18th July 1817, aged 41.

‘OWZAT?

Cricket has long been woven into the fabric of the English summer, and July is traditionally one of the sport’s busiest and most atmospheric months. County Championship matches, Test cricket and limited­overs competitions draw spectators to grounds from Lord’s and The Oval to village greens across the country. Thought to have originated in southeast England during the 16th century, cricket became Britain’s national summer sport by the Victorian era. Today, the England and Wales Cricket Board estimates there are more than 6,500 cricket clubs across England and Wales.

WHAT’S COMING UP

ON THIS DAY

JULY IN HISTORY

1st July 1916

The Battle of the Somme, one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the First World War, was fought by the armies of the British Empire and the French Republic against the German Empire.

1st July 1967

Colour television officially launches in the UK, marking a major shift in home entertainment as viewers begin to experience programmes in full colour for the first time, transforming the way families gather around the television.

5th July 1948

The National Health Service is founded, offering free healthcare at the point of use and becoming one of Britain’s most significant post war achievements, reshaping daily life for millions across the country.

13th July 1985

Simultaneous Live Aid concerts in London and Philadelphia raised millions for famine relief in Ethiopia and became one of the most famous music events in history.

4th July 2012

The Higgs Boson was discovered, with CERN’s announcement confirming what became regarded as a crucial part of the Standard Model of particle physics.

WIMBLEDON TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS

First held in 1877, Wimbledon is the world’s oldest tennis tournament and one of Britain’s most cherished sporting traditions.

Officially known as The Championships, it takes place each summer at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in southwest London. It is the only Grand Slam still played on grass courts, giving matches their distinctive fast pace and low bounce.

What began with just 22 gentlemen competing for a silver cup and 12 guineas has grown into a global sporting spectacle. Today, Wimbledon attracts more than 500,000 spectators during its fortnight, while around 2,000 competitors take part across singles, doubles, mixed doubles, junior and wheelchair events. Legends including Björn Borg, Martina Navratilova, Roger Federer and Serena Williams have all become synonymous with Wimbledon success. Federer holds the men’s record with eight singles titles, while Navratilova won the ladies’ singles nine times.

The tournament lasts two weeks each July. Men’s singles matches are played over five sets, while women’s singles are best of three. Wimbledon is famous for its traditions too, from strict all­white clothing rules to strawberries and cream, with the Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Finals bringing the tournament to its dramatic conclusion.

GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

First staged in 1993 by Lord March, now the Duke of Richmond, the Goodwood Festival of Speed has become one of the world’s greatest celebrations of motorsport and automotive engineering. Held each summer at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, the event attracts more than 200,000 visitors across four days. At its heart is the famous hill climb, a 1.16­mile course where historic racing cars have all, competed against the clock. The festival is renowned for bringing together legendary drivers, engineers and manufacturers, with appearances from icons such as Lewis Hamilton, Ayrton Senna’s championship­winning cars and classic Ferraris, McLarens and Porsches. Alongside the motorsport action, visitors can enjoy manufacturer showcases, concept car launches, air displays and exhibitions celebrating the history of motoring.

A REAL PAGE-TURNER

Time to choose some reading material for my holidays

In recent years, scientists (and I use the term loosely) have apparently been able to disprove the previously held conviction that goldfish only have an attention span and a memory span of just two to three seconds. I’m not sure how they managed to ascertain that fish are absent-minded in the first place, or why they’d go to the trouble of disproving that.

Humans face a few existential crisis points right now, not least among which are ongoing international conflicts, climate change, our need for clean and abundant energy, and of course, our failure to cure the common cold. Quite why, given the above problems, you’d choose to invest your time mucking around trying to decide whether fish are forgetful is anyone’s guess.

But what I can tell you from experience is that humans aren’t far behind fish. It’s fashionable to blame social media, so let’s go with that. I adore reading. Not online, not on a tablet. Proper physical books and magazines. No notifications popping up, no log-ins, just the beautiful English language painted in a glorious serif font. Trouble is, I’ve a shockingly short attention span, as is proven when I try to read, especially in the evening.

I’m not keen on holidays. Not at all. I like being in the office, among my colleagues. Regrettably we’re heading to the time of year when the current Mrs Davis conspires with my colleague Mandy to get me booted out of the office for a week or two. They’ll book some time off on my behalf, the building manager is instructed to lock the door after I leave and I’m banned from the building for the ensuing period. One of the few coping strategies I’ve developed is to make sure I’m due to start a new book.

Upon arriving at a holiday destination mandated by Mrs Davis, I assume the horizontal, pick up a book, and immediately fall asleep. For the same reason I’m a terrible reader in bed or on the sofa. I just have to look at a page and I fall fast asleep.

I have zero attention span, which both adversely impacts my ability to enjoy a good book and reduces my ability to consume books to a glacial pace. It’s telling that once you take the computer and phone away from me, and when I’m not driving, my brain just needs to revert to a state of idleness and stupor. It makes me reasonably sure that electronic devices, and the act of sitting in front of a screen are anathema to the way our brains are designed to function.

I struggle to read, I think, because I’ve fallen out of the habit of switching off my brain and adopting what everyone these days refers to as being mindful. I think the term is overused generally, but it’s legitimate here, because when reading a book you only have words on a screen, assuming you can concentrate on them without your mind wandering; something else I struggle with.

I frequently find myself reading a few pages, recognising my mind beginning to wander and then realising to my dismay that the last few paragraphs just haven’t gone in at all.

I must admit however, I am to blame, at least in part. I don’t like reading fiction; I don’t like reading unless I’m learning something. Unfortunately my appetite for that exceeds my ability to concentrate. Recently I experienced the literary equivalent of my eyes being bigger than my belly and purchased Professor Stephen Hawking’s Brief History of Time. Haven’t got a clue what he’s talking about. Something about space and time being all wibblywobbly I think, but I’ve definitely over-reached with that choice.

Happily, in this month’s magazine you’ll find an extended range of reading recommendations, which I hope will provide me, as well as our readers, with some recommendations for books you can enjoy at home, on holiday and (most importantly) whilst you’re awake.

Here at Pride, welove to read your feedback... email us on any subject at robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.