T H E L U X U R Y L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E F O R R U T L A N D & S TA M F O R D
AUG 2026 £7.99
I N S I D E : H O M E S • F O O D • S T Y L E • M OTO R I N G • T R AV E L • P R O P E RT Y
WELCOME TO PRIDE’S 25TH YEAR
W elcome to a very special edition of Rutland & Stamford Pride, published as we enter our 25th year.
For a quarter of a century, Pride has celebrated the people, places, homes, food, fashion, culture and businesses that make this part of the world so special. As we begin this milestone year, we felt it was the perfect moment to refresh the magazine and take another confident step forward. We have introduced a new bespoke illustrated cover, created to capture the very best of Rutland and Stamford — from beautiful architecture and countryside views to the character, charm and style that make the area so distinctive. You may have already noticed our new logo, together with more elegant layouts and a bolder, more premium design direction throughout this edition. But look a little closer and you will discover that the new logo carries a quiet tribute of its own. For 25 years, our editor, Rob Davis, has helped shape every issue of Pride. His eye for detail, creativity and commitment have left their mark on the magazine in ways both seen and unseen. So when we refreshed our identity, we felt it only right that the refresh should acknowledge the person who has played such an important role in our story. The intertwined R and D within the new logo are a subtle nod to
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Rob’s initials — a small tribute to a remarkable contribution. Some people leave a mark. Rob left his initials. A quarter century of excellence deserved more than a thank-you. Pride has always evolved. Over the years, we have never been afraid to try something new, whether that has been in our photography, illustration, editorial style or overall design. Naturally, in publishing, good ideas are sometimes noticed by others. As the saying goes, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. But for us, the aim has never been to follow. It has always been to lead. That is why this new look matters. We want Pride to feel unique, premium and unmistakably our own. We do not want to look like other local magazines. We want every issue to feel beautifully considered, proudly independent and worthy of the homes and readers it reaches. As we move through our 25th year, we have some exciting ideas planned — fresh features, new design touches and an even stronger focus on the very best of Rutland, Stamford, and the surrounding area. Thank you, as always, for reading, supporting and being part of Pride’s story. Here’s to the next 25 years.
Julian Wilkinson CEO & Founder, Pride Magazines 3
August 2026
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LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS
FOOD & DRINK
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25 YEARS OF PRIDE The people, personalities and passion behind your luxury lifestyle magazine.
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DINING OUT Exceptional cuisine at Hambleton Hall.
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LOCAL NEWS ‘Good News’ stories from across Rutland & Stamford.
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THE GUIDE Live events across Rutland & Stamford.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS Our comprehensive guide to the best local restaurants, cafés, bistros, food producers and suppliers.
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RECIPES Summer seafood treats courtesy of Rick Stein’s new book.
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WINE Our wine and spirit recommendations for August plus a catch-up with Tim & Zoe Beaver at The Rutland Vineyard.
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RUTLAND WILDLIFE Celebrating 70 years of the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and 50 years of Rutland Water.
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COWES World-class sailing.
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WEDDINGS Lucy and Matt celebrate their love at Burghley House.
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CELEBRATING YEARS OF PRIDE
Portfolio AUGUST 2026
COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND
FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS
MEN’S FASHION
FASHION
COASTAL MENSWEAR MOTORS
PORSCHE
REDISCOVERING MAXI DRESSES FOR AUGUST
CAYENNE TRAVEL
British Yachts
WILDLIFE
Nature in
August
Plus: The Trip of a Life me to the Amazon
Hedgerows and Hollows LOUIS VUITTON MÖET HENNESSY
HOW LVMH BECAME SYNONYMOUS WITH LUXURY AND HIGH FASHION
HOMES & GARDENS
PORTFOLIO
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WELCOME HOME A contemporary barn in Rutland with stunning outdoor spaces for entertaining.
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FASHION Style for summer with the return of the Maxi skirt.
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HOMES A curated selection for your home with a blue theme.
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STYLE FOR MEN Coastal menswear.
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INTERIORS 25 years of design with Sarah Harding Interiors.
LUXURY BRANDS A house of brands with Louis Vuitton Möet Hennessy.
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KITCHENS Impressive living spaces with Leicester’s Moir Wade.
TRAVEL Take the trip of a lifetime to the Amazon rainforest.
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YACHTS The best of British.
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GARDENING Advice for August.
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MOTORS Porsche’s electric Cayenne.
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LUXURY HOMES Executive and rural homes across Rutland and Stamford.
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NATURE Local wildlife in August
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ALMANAC Trivia and fiction.
READ FREE ONLINE: visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk/rutland TO SUBSCRIBE: visit www.pridemagazines.co.uk/rutland/subscribe
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Professionally delivered to the region’s wealthiest households T H E L U X U R Y L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E F O R R U T L A N D & S TA M F O R D
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.
AUG 2026
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.
£7.99
I N S I D E : H O M E S • F O O D • S T Y L E • M OTO R I N G • T R AV E L • P R O P E RT Y
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, Poppy Beel. Finance: Margarita Pavlesevica. Accounts: Mia Garner, Viktorija Kerinaite, Tracy Pike. IT Manager: Ian Bagley. Web Developer: Joe Proctor.
Pride Magazines Boston Enterprise Centre, Enterprise Way, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 7TW. Telephone: 01529 469977. Web: www.pridemagazines.co.uk. Email: sales@pridemagazines.co.uk
Legal Disclaimer 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.
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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.
Enjoy Pride Magazines on your tablet 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 appear 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. Available in print, via our app, and on Readly, the online newsstand. Don’t forget to follow us on social media too...
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25
CELEBRATING YEARS OF PRIDE
THE VISION. THE LEGACY. JULIAN WILKINSON FOUNDER
LIONHEARTED The people, personalities and passion behind 25 years of the luxury lifestyle magazine. Words: Julian Wilkinson.
Twentyfive years in business is a milestone few companies ever reach. In a world where technology changes almost daily, consumer habits evolve constantly and entire industries can be transformed in the space of just a few years, surviving is an achievement. Thriving is something else entirely. As Pride enters its twentyfifth year, we have found ourselves reflecting not just on the magazine itself, but on the people behind it. Because whilst logos evolve, designs change and technologies advance, businesses are ultimately built by people. Or perhaps, in our case, lionhearts. At the centre of Pride’s story are three very different personalities. Julian Wilkinson, the founder, whose original idea and passion for design, quality and innovation created the magazine in the first place. Zoie Wilkinson, Sales Director, whose instinct for people, relationships and growth has helped develop the business and strengthen its connection with advertisers. And Rob Davis, our wordsmith, editor and storyteller, who has lived and breathed Pride for so long that if you snapped him in half, you would probably find the word Pride running through him like lettering in a stick of Skeggy rock. When Lincolnshire Pride first appeared in 2002, the publishing world looked very different. Social media did not exist in the way we understand it today. Smartphones were still to come. Artificial intelligence belonged firmly in science fiction. What did exist was an idea: that there was room for a magazine which celebrated the very best of county life. Not hard news, gossip or controversy, but beautiful photography, exceptional homes, inspiring people, great food, wonderful places and stories worth telling. That belief remains exactly the same today. Julian’s passion has always been quality: design, detail and the little things most people never notice individually, but somehow always feel. From the carefully selected paper to the choice of typeface, from photography to layout, from how a feature
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CELEBRATING YEARS OF PRIDE opens to how it ends, Pride has always been built on the belief that quality is rarely an accident. It is created deliberately, patiently and sometimes obsessively. If Julian provides the vision, Zoie provides much of the energy behind the magazine’s growth. As Sales Director, her passion has always been people: conversations, relationships and understanding what makes businesses successful. Advertising has changed dramatically over the last twentyfive years. Businesses today are surrounded by marketing opportunities, from websites and social media to Google, video, influencers and now artificial intelligence. Yet despite all the noise, one thing remains unchanged. People still buy from people. They still value trust, relationships and genuine recommendations. Zoie’s ability to build those relationships has played a huge role in the magazine’s success, and many of our advertisers have been with us for years, some for decades. That loyalty is never taken for granted. It is earned. Then there is Rob Davis. Every magazine needs an editor, but Pride has something rather more valuable than that. Rob understands the magazine’s voice, its readers and its tone. More importantly, he understands that great magazines are built on great stories. Every feature begins with a blank page, and Rob’s gift is filling those pages with warmth, humour, personality and humanity. It is one of the reasons Pride has always felt authentic, and one of the reasons readers have remained loyal for so many years. This year, as part of our refreshed identity, we also wanted to recognise Rob’s contribution in a small but meaningful way. Many readers will already have noticed our new logo. Look closely and you may discover a subtle hidden detail within the design: a quiet tribute to someone whose dedication has helped shape Pride for a very long time. It is our way of saying thank you. A quarter century of excellence deserved more than a thankyou. Of course, no business reaches twentyfive years by standing still. One of the greatest lessons we have learned is that change should never be feared. It should be understood, embraced and used intelligently. Some readers may look at the portraits featured in this article and immediately say, “That’s AI.” They would be absolutely right, and that is precisely the point. Twentyfive years ago, we embraced digital photography when others still worked with film. We embraced desktop publishing, digital editions,
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THE EDITOR. T H E PA S S I O N. ROB DAVIS EXECUTIVE EDITOR
THE DRIVE. THE GROWTH. ZOIE WILKINSON SALES DIRECTOR
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CELEBRATING YEARS OF PRIDE
websites, social media, drones, video and online magazines. Today, we are embracing artificial intelligence, not because it is fashionable, but because it is useful. For businesses across Lincolnshire and Rutland, AI has the potential to transform productivity. A solicitor can draft documents faster. An estate agent can create property particulars in seconds. A retailer can generate marketing ideas. A manufacturer can analyse data more effectively. A farmer can monitor crops and identify trends. For readers, the possibilities are equally exciting, whether planning a holiday, researching family history, learning a new skill, visualising a room before redecorating it or simply finding smarter ways to organise everyday life. Artificial intelligence will not replace people. But people who use artificial intelligence may well replace those who do not. That is true in publishing, true in business and true in life. The publishing industry has changed dramatically over the past quarter century. Magazine sales have declined across the country, and reader habits have evolved. We recognised those changes years ago. Rather than relying on traditional newsstand sales, we focused on direct distribution, delivering Pride free of charge into carefully selected homes across Lincolnshire, Rutland and Stamford. That decision was not made by accident. It was made because we could see where the market was heading. Today, Pride reaches engaged readers directly in their homes while continuing to provide exceptional value for advertisers. That approach is supported by what our readers tell us. Pride is not a magazine people simply flick through and discard. It is read, kept, shared and discussed. It sits on kitchen tables, coffee tables and in waiting rooms. It is passed to friends, taken into offices and enjoyed over coffee or a glass of wine. In a world dominated by fast scrolling and disposable content, that matters. As we celebrate twentyfive years of Pride, we do so with immense gratitude to our readers, advertisers, contributors and the team who have helped create every edition. We are proud of our history, but we are even more excited about the future. New technology, new ideas and new opportunities will continue to shape the way we work. The world will keep changing, as it always has. The important thing is not to resist change, but to meet it with confidence.
The Lionhearts may help lead the Pride, but no lion succeeds alone. Behind every edition stands a remarkable team of talented, dedicated people whose creativity, hard work and passion bring the magazine to life month after month. Every role matters. Every contribution counts. Together, they are the true strength of Pride.
Naturally, in publishing, good ideas are sometimes noticed by others. As the saying goes, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. But for us, the aim has never been to follow. It has always been to lead.
After all, lionhearts were never meant to follow the herd. They were born to lead.
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Local News
GET READY FOR BURGHLEY 2026
New name proposed for Stamford What’s in a name? Potentially quite a lot, if proposed local government reforms across Lincolnshire go ahead. South Kesteven District Council has submitted plans as part of the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation programme, which could see the current district council disappear and be replaced by a new authority known as South Lincolnshire Council. Under the proposal, South Kesteven would join with neighbouring authorities to form a larger unitary council responsible for delivering local services.
Defender Burghley Horse Trials returns to the magnificent parkland of Burghley House, Stamford, from Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th September 2026, once again bringing together the very best riders, horses and spectators for one of the highlights of the British sporting and social calendar. As one of only a handful of fivestar FEI eventing competitions in the world, Burghley attracts elite international competitors who will tackle the three demanding disciplines of dressage, crosscountry and showjumping. The event is renowned for its challenging course, exceptional
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sporting standards and spectacular setting within the grounds of one of England’s greatest Elizabethan houses.
equestrianthemed displays that add colour and excitement to the streets in the weeks leading up to the event.
Yet Burghley is about far more than equestrian sport. Around 175,000 visitors attend each year, making it one of the East Midlands’ most significant events and contributing an estimated £20 million to the local economy.
For many visitors, shopping is as much a draw as the sport, with more than 600 trade stands offering luxury fashion, country clothing, homewares, gardens, gifts and artisan food and drink.
Hotels, restaurants, cafés and independent retailers across Stamford all benefit from the influx of visitors. The town itself embraces the occasion, with businesses taking part in the annual Best Dressed Window Competition, creating eyecatching
For tickets and further information, see www.burghleyhorse.co.uk.
Elsewhere, a separate authority covering Lincoln, Boston, East Lindsey and West Lindsey would be known as Central Lincolnshire Council. For residents, the most visible change could be the disappearance of familiar names such as South Kesteven District Council, which has served communities across Stamford, Bourne, Market Deeping and the surrounding villages for more than 50 years. The Government will now consider submissions before deciding how local government in Lincolnshire could look in the future. Currently Rutland residents are keen to be a part of a Stamford/South Lincolnshire council and retain the county’s ceremonial status instead of being merged with Leicestershire.
Send your Rutland and Stamford news stories or press releases to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk
New cycle link for Oakham and Rutland Water Rutland County Council is keen to improve cycling and active travel links between Oakham town centre and Rutland Water. The council is proposing a new route along Stamford Road that would create a safer, more accessible route for residents, visitors and families travelling between the town and one of the county’s most popular leisure destinations. Proposals include segregated cycling facilities, improved crossings, better signage, lighting and surfacing, as well as links to existing cycling routes including the Burley Park Way shareduse path. The route would begin near Oakham Library before continuing along Catmos Street and Stamford Road, connecting with onward routes towards Rutland Water. The council says the project would support healthier lifestyles, encourage more sustainable travel, reduce reliance on cars and help ease congestion. It would also strengthen Rutland’s visitor offer by completing a missing link in the county’s cycling
infrastructure, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy safe access to Rutland Water and the surrounding countryside.
Rutland MP Alicia meets the Dalai Lama Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns recently met His Holiness the Dalai Lama during a parliamentary visit focused on Tibet and its future. The visit also included attendance at the swearingin of Penpa Tsering as Sikyong, the democratically elected political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration. Alicia is a longstanding advocate for Tibetan rights and religious freedom, and she has frequently raised concerns about human rights issues and the treatment of Tibetans under Chinese rule. Describing the audience with the Dalai Lama as a “profound honour,” Alicia reaffirmed her support for the preservation of Tibetan culture, language and identity, and urged world leaders to continue speaking out on behalf of communities facing repression.
Uppingham in Bloom boost Uppingham in Bloom has received a welcome £2,500 boost following a successful Open Gardens event. Nine gardens across the town welcomed visitors, who also enjoyed refreshments in the church hall. The funds raised will be used to purchase plants, planters and equipment for public displays around Uppingham. Organisers thanked residents for their support in helping to ensure the town continues to bloom.
For Rutland raises over £10,000 For Rutland has raised more than £10,000 at this year’s Rutland County Show thanks to another successful Grand Bottle Tombola. Run entirely by volunteers, the group supports Citizens Advice Rutland, helping to fund its specialist advisers. The achievement follows the group’s annual Good and New Clothes Sale earlier this year, which raised over £57,000. Organisers thanked local residents, businesses and volunteers for their generosity and support.
Cast your vote for Burghley Just a reminder to support the formal gardens of Burghley House in the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Award; voting is open until 31st August, see www.historichouses.org.
Recognising South Kesteven’s community champions South Kesteven’s community champions were celebrated recently at the SK Community Awards, recognising the volunteers, organisations and local heroes who make a lasting difference to life across the district. Among those recognised were Volunteer of the Year Jo White, whose work supporting bereaved people through the National Grief Advice Service has helped countless individuals navigate loss, and Jill Halliday, who received the Judy Smith Lifetime Community Champion Award for her tireless commitment to animal rescue and welfare. Young broadcaster James Merryweather was honoured for his positive contribution to the community through local radio, while Adam Parker received the Neil Smith Community Emergency Response Award after twice helping to save a neighbour’s life in separate medical emergencies.
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French Assets!
What the EU Succession Regulation means for your Will and your French assets If you own property or assets in France, your Will may not work in the
regardless of your wishes. One child is entitled to half your estate, two
way you expect. French inheritance law operates very differently from
children share two thirds, and three or more share three quarters. Step-
English law, and without careful planning, the people you intended to
children have no automatic rights at all. For blended families in
benefit may not receive what you planned.
particular, the consequences of not planning ahead can be significant.
A piece of European legislation known as the EU Succession Regulation,
In 2021, France further amended its Civil Code to allow children to claim
or Brussels IV, is central to this. It determines which country's succession
their reserved share from French assets even where a Brussels IV election
law governs your estate when you die with assets in more than one
has been made, in certain circumstances. This has added a layer of
country. Despite Brexit, Brussels IV continues to apply to UK nationals
complexity that makes reviewing your Will more important than ever.
with French assets. The regulation gives British nationals the right to
If France features in your financial or family life in any way, we would
elect that English law governs their entire estate, including property
recommend taking advice. Our private client team has considerable
situated in France, but that election must be made expressly in your Will.
experience advising on cross-border estate planning and international
It does not happen automatically.
Wills. Please get in touch to discuss your arrangements.
This matters because French law contains a concept known as forced
Buckles Law Stamford, 3 St Mary's Hill, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2DW
heirship, the réserve héréditaire, which gives biological and adopted
Call 01780 484570. Email StamfordEnquiries@buckleslaw.co.uk
children a legally guaranteed right to a minimum share of your estate
www.buckleslaw.co.uk
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DINING OUT
Hambleton Exceptional Cuisine
Hall Words: Rob Davis.
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bove the venerable stone portico of Hambleton Hall, carved in medieval French, are the words fay çe que voudras which competent users of the language (or cheats using a web browser) will confirm translates as do what you will. I didn’t realise until now, but it’s a line popularised by 16th-century satirist Rabelais in Pantagruel & Gargantua, a writer with whom I am familiar only because I bitterly remember having to study his grotesque prose at university. He was all about the bawdiness and pleasure, the drinking and the good food. Hambleton these days is still all
about good food and drink, but it politely declines the potential for bawdy behaviour in favour of polite conversation and a warm welcome. The invitation nonetheless remains written in stone to make yourself comfortable and enjoy one of the best country house hotels in the country. The inscription might as well read plus ça change, for Hambleton Hall remains reassuringly and consistently welcoming, even if the odd change does occur. Last year saw the retirement of Chris Hurst, the hotel’s General Manager, who was an absolute gentleman.
Below: Perez Cruz Cab Sav recommended for the tasting menu’s chump of lamb.
Recently the hotel saw another retirement as sommelier Dominique Baduel ceremoniously passed his corkscrew to Patrick Cooper, who has some awfully big decanters to fill. Other members of the team, like Executive Chef Aaron Patterson who has been at Hambleton Hall since 1992, and Graeme Matheson, who has now broadened his scope from Restaurant Manager to General Manger, are venerable too. The country house hotel has long benefitted from a wonderful team who have worked so well together for so many years that you couldn’t imagine the place without them.
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DINING OUT
Fortunately, among the very many admirable qualities of the team is a strong will to share their knowledge and nurture the same sense of care and attention in newer members of the team. That means even when people like Chris and Dom become VIP visitors instead of Hambleton stalwarts, the hotel’s standards and its warm welcome are retained. Hambleton Hall has never pursued fads, instead concentrating on quality and consistency in obeyance with the golden rule of hospitality; make the guest feel special. That’s why it’s still a pleasure to stay and dine at the hotel nearly 47 years since Tim & Stefa Hart welcomed their first guests to the Grade II listed former hunting lodge, set in 17 acres right on the Rutland peninsula. The inspiration for Hambleton Hall came from the couple’s visits to Michel Guérard’s celebrated Les Prés d’Eugénie in south-west France. At the time the restaurant was redefining French cuisine and remains one of the world’s great dining destinations, now holding three Michelin stars. Tim and Stefa admired not only the quality of the food, but also the warmth, generosity and sense of place that made guests feel genuinely welcome. Those values have also remained at the very heart of Hambleton Hall ever since. The hotel joined Relais & Châteaux as one of its earliest British members
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and quickly established a reputation that extended far beyond Rutland.
suppliers with whom the team has worked for years.
Hambleton Hall was awarded its Michelin Star in 1982 and today proudly holds the distinction of having retained the accolade longer than any other restaurant in Britain.
Among the most notable local suppliers is of course Hambleton Bakery, founded by Tim Hart and master baker Julian Carter, a former pastry chef at the hotel.
Alongside its Michelin recognition, the hotel has maintained four AA Rosettes for decades and has collected a host of other honours including two Michelin Keys, recognition in The Good Hotel Guide and regular inclusion among printed guides of Britain’s finest country house hotels and restaurants.
What began as a shared commitment to exceptional bread has grown into one of Britain’s most respected artisan bakeries, and its breads remain a perfect accompaniment to the restaurant’s cooking. Like Hambleton Hall the bakery succeeds through craftsmanship, consistency and a refusal to compromise on quality.
Aaron has been a central figure in that success since returning to Hambleton Hall. Working alongside a talented brigade of about 20, he continues to champion classical cooking with a slight contemporary touch, placing flavour and quality ingredients above culinary theatrics or gimmicks.
Away from the dining room, Tim’s influence can be seen throughout the grounds. Working closely with the gardening team, he has helped create and maintain the formal gardens that stretch away from the rear terrace towards Rutland Water. The carefully maintained gardens provide a beautiful outlook from both the drawing room and dining room, whilst the wider grounds offer colour and interest throughout the seasons.
Menus change regularly with the seasons and diners can choose from lunch, à la carte and vegetarian menus that demonstrate the same attention to detail regardless of occasion. The restaurant’s relationships with suppliers are equally important. Aaron has always preferred to source locally wherever possible, drawing on the best produce available from Rutland and the surrounding area. Fresh vegetables, herbs and edible flowers are supplemented by produce grown in the hotel’s own kitchen garden, while many ingredients arrive from trusted specialist
Above: Hambleton Hall’s ‘Croquet’ bed room, a summer tipple and owners Tim & Stefa Hart.
Inside, Stefa’s eye for design is evident throughout the hotel. Her classically styled interiors feature well-chosen furnishings that create a sense of comfort that extends into each of the hotel’s 17 bedrooms. They are individually designed, beautifully maintained and possess the sort of character that other hotels can only covet.
Meanwhile, the hotel’s calendar of events remains as busy as ever. As Pride goes to press, Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns is preparing to deliver an after-dinner speech at the hotel on 31st July. Later in the year, guests can join respected mycologist Paul Nichol for a Mushroom Hunt on Saturday 3rd October, combining expert guidance with the pleasures of foraging and dining. And then, on Thursday 8th October, Hambleton Hall’s popular annual PalmerSport Racing Day returns, giving participants the opportunity to experience high-performance driving before returning to the hotel for dinner and hospitality. Nearly half a century after opening its doors, Hambleton Hall remains exactly what Tim and Stefa intended it to be: a place where excellent food, comfortable surroundings and genuine hospitality come together naturally. Awards, accolades and a Michelin Star matter, of course, but they are really the consequence of getting the fundamentals right. Hambleton Hall’s guests are greeted warmly, looked after very attentively and encouraged to find happiness. Guests return because they are looked after so well, because standards never slip, and because Hambleton Hall continues to offer something increasingly rare in modern hospitality — consistency, warmth and the feeling of being truly welcome.
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FIRST COURSES Pâté of Foie Gras, Verjus, Celery, Walnut, Grapes & Foie Gras Ice Cream. Smoked Beetroot, Golden Beetroot Bavarois, Goat’s Cheese. Tartare of Yellowfin Tuna, Lemongrass, Ginger & Coconut.
MIDDLE COURSES Charred Cornish Red Mullet, Fennel, Avocado & Blood Orange. Boudin of Chicken & Morels, Wild Garlic, Egg Yolk Purée, Iberico Lardo
MAIN COURSES Roast Merryfield Farm Duck Breast, Prickly Pear Purée, Pickled Radish, Lemongrass & Ginger Infused Sauce. Pluma of Iberico Pork, Sauerkraut, Parsnip, Coriander. Roast Loin of Launde Farm Lamb, Greek Salad, Mint, Moussaka. Seared Fillet of Brill, Roast Baby Violet Artichoke, Calamansi Purée, Berigoule Sauce.
DESSERTS Nougat Glacé, Coconut Sorbet, Caramelised Pineapple. Hambleton’s Tiramisu. Passion Fruit Soufflé, Passion Fruit & Banana Sorbet. Gariguette Strawberries, Vanilla Panna Cotta, Strawberry & Champagne Sorbet. A Selection of Farmhouse Cheeses, Hambleton Bakery Bread, Grapes & Celery.
HAMBLETON HALL Opening Hours: Lunchtime and evening service, seven days 12 noon – 1.30pm, 6pm – 9pm. 17 beautifully appointed and individually decorated rooms and suites from £425/night.
Hambleton Hall, Ketton Road, Oakham, LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.
NB: Sample menu and featured dishes, subject to availability and change.
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Tipplemill Distillery Gin grown in harmony with nature on our fifth-generation Lincolnshire family farm The perfect tipple to enjoy with friends and family all summer long!
PREMIUM, SUSTAINABLE AND REFRESHING Made with Lincolnshire wheat and distilled with 10 botanicals including elderflower, sweet fennel, sundried orange, grapefruit and bay leaves
Order online at www.tipplemill.com 28
For trade/wholesale enquiries contact lily@tipplemill.com
GOOD FOOD GUIDE THE LOCAL GUIDE TO DINING OUT
OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS
RESTAURANTS THE BARNSDALE BRASSERIE – 1760 A relaxed yet elegant dining experience. The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see barnsdalerutland.com.
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 high lighted our winners in orange 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 Rutland and Stamford 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
BLOSSOMS AT RUTLAND HALL A contemporary restaurant serving a seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients, with a beautiful lakeside setting overlooking Rutland Water. Rutland Hall Hotel, Barnsdale, LE15 8AB. Call 01572 757901 or see www.rutlandhall.co.uk. BEST INTERNATIONAL DINING RESTAURANT 2025
CLOISTERS Cosy European bistro serving fresh pasta, authentic pizzas, and a variety of satisfying dishes. St Mary’s St, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 755162 or see cloistersstamford.co.uk.
THE CROWN HOTEL A lively pub, restaurant, and hotel in the heart of Stamford, serving a seasonal menu with local ingredients. All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.
THE FINCH’S ARMS
HITCHENS BARN
An 18thcentury pub situated on the very pretty Hambleton Peninsula, providing stunning views over Rutland Water. Hambleton, LE15 8TL. Call 01572 756575 or see www.finchsarms.co.uk.
Featured in The Good Food Guide book of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants in 2023, 2024 & 2025. Holders of two AA rosettes for culinary excellence. Burley Road, Oakham LE15 6DH. Call 01572 722255 or see www.hitchensbarn.co.uk.
THE GEORGE INN OAKHAM A charming 17thcentury coaching inn situated in the centre of Oakham, previously known as the WhipperInn. Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT. Call 01572 756971 or see thegeorgeinnoakham.co.uk.
HAMBLETON HALL Hambleton Hall hotel and restaurant is situated on the peninsula above Rutland Water. Renowned for impeccable service thanks to over four decades of ownership under Tim & Stefa Hart. Michelinstarred restaurant with seasonal menus in a luxurious country house setting. Created in 1979 and opening soon after, the kitchen is headed up by Aaron Patterson who has ensured the restaurant has retained its Michelin Star longer than any other dining room in Britain. Enjoy a daily changing menu including ‘gourmet corner’ options. Hambleton, Oakham, LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.
JASHIR INDIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR A culinary destination that offers unforgettable Indian dishes made with the finest ingredients and spices. 51-53 High Street, Oakham LE15 6AJ. Call 01572 368282 or see www.jashir.co.uk.
THE LAKE ISLE Offering a contemporary, intimate setting and friendly, attentive service, alongside exquisite flavour combinations via à la carte and set menus. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PZ. Call 01572 822951 or see www.lakeisle.co.uk.
THE GURKHAS Vibrant and authentic Nepalese and Indian culinary experience. One of the town’s standout dining destinations, known for rich, aromatic & classic dishes inspired by Himalayan cuisine. 11 Broad St, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 917598 or 07414 185679, www.thegurkhasstamford.com.
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MILLY’S BISTRO AT THE WILLIAM CECIL Located at The William Cecil, Milly’s Bistro is a relaxed yet refined addition to the Stamford dining scene, serving dishes using local ingredients. St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Call 01780 750085 or see www.millysbistro.co.uk.
NO.23 UPPINGHAM A Mediterraneaninspired restaurant featuring a range of wines and cocktails. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 303023, www.23uppingham.co.uk. RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS 2025
THE GEORGE OF STAMFORD Refined fine dining featuring modern British cuisine. Highlights of the menu include Dover sole and sirloin of beef. George Hotel, High Street, Stamford, PE9 2LB. Call 01780 750750 or see georgehotelofstamford.com.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2025
THE OLIVE BRANCH An awardwinning gastropub offering seasonal British cuisine in a gorgeous setting. Having celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, the restaurant’s kitchen garden provides fresh herbs, fruit and veg, and local producers are really well represented. Clipsham, Rutland, LE15 7SH. Call 01780 410355 or see theolivebranchpub.com.
PATEN & CO Located in a historic 18th century pub, Paten & Co serves a variety of small plates and larger dishes, with a special focus on its charcoal oven. All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 408647 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.
THE SLANTED DOOR Lovely 16thcentury building with a modern bar, selling cocktails, an extensive fine wine list, draught beers and delicious small plates. Dine upstairs in the intimate restaurant with outstanding food. Large vegan menu. St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DS. Call 01780 757773 or see theslanteddoor.co.uk.
THE SIX BELLS Village pub with bedrooms serving locally sourced, seasonal dishes seven days a week. Founded by Jim & Sharon Trevor, formerly of Jim’s Yard and now coowned by son and daughter Lauren & James. Awarded the coveted Bib Gourmand from Michelin Guide, look out for stunning value auberge menu on selected Monday evenings. Witham on the Hill, Bourne PE10 0JH. Call 01778 590360 or see www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.
ZADA A beautiful Turkish restaurant in one of Stamford’s old stone buildings, offering a menu packed with authentic Turkish dishes like kofte and baklava. St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP. Call 01780 766848 or see zadarestaurant.co.uk.
DINING PUBS THE ADMIRAL HORNBLOWER Quality lunch and dining menus sister venue to The Finchs Arms on the Hambleton peninsula. High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AS, call 01572 723004 or see www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk
THE BERTIE ARMS Gorgeous C17th thatched pub in Uffington run by Katie and James Genever. Uffington, PE9 4SZ. Call 01780 766400 or see www.thebertiearms.co.uk.
SARPECH INDIAN RESTAURANT
THE BLUE BALL AT BRAUNSTON
Offering a contemporary dining experience with a focus on topquality Indian cuisine. Burley Corner, Oakham, LE15 6DU. Call 01572 842888 or see www.sarpech.co.uk.
Cosy country pub with a focus on local produce, offering traditional British dishes. Cedar Street, Braunston, LE15 8QS. Call 01572 722135 theblueballbraunston.co.uk.
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THE BULL AND SWAN A quirky pub offering classic British dishes in a stylish, historic setting. Lovely kitchen garden and great setting. Sister venue to William Cecil. High Street St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 766412 or see www.thebullandswan.co.uk.
THE CROWN 16thcentury coaching inn serving light lunch, comforting pub classics, handstretched stonebaked pizza. High St E, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, 01572 822302 or see www.crownuppingham.co.uk.
THE FALCON HOTEL Historic hotel and pub offering a variety of hearty British dishes and Sunday roasts. Its new restaurant, Fern, is a seasonal restaurant serving small plates, organic wines and British aperitifs. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 823535 or see www.falcon-hotel.co.uk.
THE FOX Cosy pub serving a mix of traditional British and international dishes. Founded by Jason Allen, with long standing head chef Richard Page providing great value freshlyprepared dishes. Pinfold Lane, North Luffenham, LE15 8LE. Call 01780 720991 or see thefoxrutland.co.uk.
GEORGE & DRAGON Quintessentially English village pub at Seaton has undergone a complete transformation. Menus are focused on using the best of local and fresh produce. Two AA rosettes for culinary excellence. Main Street, Seaton, Oakham, LE15 9HU. Call 01572 747418 or see thegeorgeanddragonseaton.com.
THE HORSE & JOCKEY Traditional pub located near Rutland Water, offering pub classics and local ales. St Mary’s Road, Manton, LE15 8SU. Call 01572 737335 or see horseandjockeyrutland.co.uk.
THE KING’S HEAD A quaint pub in the heart of Stamford, offering hearty pub meals. Maiden Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AZ. Call 01780 753510 or see www.kingsheadstamford.co.uk.
THE LONDON INN Oldworld pub offering traditional dishes, including brunch and grill options. St John’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DB. Call 01780 754919.
THE LORD BURGHLEY A traditional British pub with a suntrap garden, serving a variety of pub classics. Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 763426.
THE RED LION, WEST DEEPING Exceptional pub restaurant headed up by Frazer and Emma, great dining, lovely feel and smashing service! A cosy pub serving elevated British cuisine, local, fresh and sustainable. West Deeping, Peterborough PE6 9HP, call 07421 977661, theredlionwestdeeping.co.uk.
THE TOBIE NORRIS A historic 13thcentury pub with a cosy atmosphere, offering traditional British dishes, woodfired pizzas, and a variety of local ales. Sister venue to Patens and The Crown Hotel. St Paul’s St, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 753800 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.
GOOD FOOD GUIDE THE LOCAL GUIDE TO DINING OUT
DAYTIME DINING THE BLONDE BEET A plantbased restaurant with a creative menu that highlights seasonal ingredients, The Blonde Beet is run by Jo Kemp, who has brought her passion for vegan cuisine to the heart of Stamford. Expect inventive dishes that are both healthy and packed with flavour. St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE. Call 01780 766464 or see www.blondebeet.co.uk.
THE COSY CLUB National chain in the town’s old postal sorting office with quirky look and feel, decent enough for a bite to eat, with good brunch menu, and burger/grill options. Horse Shoe Lane, Stamford, PE9 2RB, call 01780 767710 or see www.cosyclub.co.uk.
DON PADDY’S Familyrun business since 2001 and somewhere to meet for brunch, lunch and dinner daily, or cocktails. Serving delicious, high quality food with local produce in a friendly, local space. Recently refurbished with brand new menu, sister venue of Uppingham’s Falcon Hotel. Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH. Call 01572 822255 or see www.donpaddys.co.uk.
GARDEN RESTAURANT GATES GARDEN CENTRE The perfect place to eat and drink. Large 350seater restaurant within Gates Garden Centre, which also benefits from having an exceptional farm shop on site. Outdoor verandah for summer months and log burners for the cooler months. Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.
LAMBERT’S BISTRO Welcoming and comfortable environment in which to enjoy good coffee, brunch or lunch. Steve and Sally opened Lambert’s in 2016 after working in the hospitality sector for nearly 30 years. Cheyne Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AX. Call 01780 767063 or see www.lamberts-stamford.co.uk.
Hambleton Bakery.
‘THE VIEW’ AT RUTLAND NURSERY A popular spot with stunning views of Rutland Water, offering a range of light lunches and homemade desserts in a serene setting. Manton, LE15 8RN. Call 01572 498720 or see www.rutlandnursery.co.uk.
CAFÉS AND TEA ROOMS BARNSDALE GARDENS
THE DAIRY BARN CAFE
HAMBLETON BAKERY
Delightful tearoom with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and teas. Located on a dairy farm at Leesthorpe between Oakham and Melton, with 200 cows and its own ice cream parlour producing luxury ice cream from cow to cone. Whissendine Rd, Leesthorpe, Melton Mowbray LE14 2XJ. Call 01664 474461 or see www.ferneleysicecream.co.uk.
Artisan bakery offering a range of breads, pastries, and sweet treats created by Julian Carter and his team. A sister business to the exceptional Hambleton Hall. Cottesmore Road, LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.
FIKA STAMFORD
A delightful spot within Barnsdale Gardens, known for serving freshly made dishes. Enjoy the gardens created by BBC Gardener’s World’s Geoff Hamilton from 1983. The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 813200 or see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk.
Opened by brother and sister duo Tia and Ivo, Fika Stamford offers a ‘vibey brunch café’ experience. With a warm atmosphere, good music, and friendly staff. Pastries and baked goods to take away. High Street, Stamford PE9 2BB. Call 01780 723514 or see www.fikacafe.co.uk.
CENTRAL TEA ROOM AND CAFÉ
FROTHYS COFFEE SHOP, STAMFORD
The oldest tea rooms in Stamford. The timber framed building is reputed to be part of a 15thcentury great wool house. Professes to offer the ‘best breakfast in Stamford,’ as well as providing classic sandwiches, paninis, and home made cakes with bespoke occasion cakes to order. Red Lion Square, PE9 2AJ. Call 01780 763217.
A family run independent business offering breakfast, brunch, light lunches, plus savouries, cakes & beverages. Welcoming and friendly. Menu is creative and imaginative with locally sourced produce where possible. Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL. Call 01780 751110 or see www.frothyscoffeeshop.com.
COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR 2025
THE HAYLOFT AT HUNTERS A stylish and inviting coffee shop with an adjacent interior design studio for inspiration. Excellent coffee, delicious homemade cakes, Hambleton Bakery bread and light lunches. Copthill Farm, Stamford PE9 4TD. 01780 753351 or see www.huntersinteriors ofstamford.co.uk.
MULBERRY CAFÉ AT BOSWORTHS GARDEN CENTRE Mulberry café, with its airy orangery and views across the plant area, serves up a fresh, seasonally inspired menu featuring produce straight from the onsite kitchen garden. Elton Walled Garden, Peterborough PE8 6SH Call 01832 343104 or see www.bosworthsgc.co.uk.
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FOOD & DRINK PRODUCERS DERWENT & DUNNE
Exceptional coffees & teas, with bespoke blends. Call 01780 723826 or visit www.derwentanddunne.co.uk.
GATES FARM SHOP
Farm shop with 12,000 sq ft retail space incorporating Hambleton Farms butchery. Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk. FOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2025
HAMBLETON BAKERY
Handmade artisan bread and cakes free of additives available from seven shops including those in Exton, Stamford, and Oakham. Oakham LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see hambletonbakery.co.uk.
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RENNET & RIND
Stamford’s goto destination for artisan British cheese. High St, Stamford PE9 2AL. Call 01480 831112 or see www.rennetandrind.co.uk. DRINKS PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2025
RUTLAND VINEYARD
Beautiful vineyard in Rutland producing stunning wines on Jurassic limestone soil. Tasting Barn, Barrowden Rd, Ketton, PE9 3RJ. See therutlandvineyard.com.
TIPPLEMILL GIN
Producers of Tipplemill London Dry Gin, with a flavoursome combination of bittersweet citrus and elderflower, £44/70cl. See www.tipplemill.com.
TWO CHIMPS COFFEE
Visit the Two Chimps roastery! Based on Pillings Road in Oakham, the company is Rutland’s the home of fresh, handroasted singleorigin coffee from around the world. Alongside some exceptional beans, the company offers premium looseleaf teas, artisan hot chocolates, and unique gifts. Pop in to the shop to see the full collection or join the team for one of their interactive coffee workshops. Oakham, call 01572 774389 or see twochimpscoffee.com.
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.
GOOD FOOD GUIDE THE LOCAL GUIDE TO DINING OUT
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Recipe
SERVES 4 125g unsalted butter 4 sea bass fillets, about 100g each, skin on 1 /2 vanilla pod 50ml vermouth 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar 1 shallot, peeled and halved 150ml Fish Stock 25g peeled, seeded and diced tomato 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped chervil 1 /4 teaspoon salt, plus extra to season the fish 6 turns of the black pepper mill, plus extra to season the fish
n First, clarify the butter. Place the butter in a small pan and leave it over a very low heat until it has melted. Skim off any scum from the surface and pour off the clear (clarified) butter into a bowl, leaving behind the milky white solids that will have settled in the bottom of the pan. n Brush both sides of the sea bass fillets with a little of the clarified butter and season on both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside. Preheat a lightly oiled ridged griddle until very hot.
FILLETS OF SEA BASS WITH VANILLA BUTTER VINAIGRETTE
n To make the dressing, split the vanilla pod open lengthways, scrape out the seeds with a small teaspoon and very finely chop the pod. Put the seeds and the pod into a small pan with the vermouth, vinegar and shallot. Place the pan over a high heat and bring the liquid to the boil. Boil for a few minutes until reduced to about 1 tablespoon. n Add the fish stock and boil once more until reduced to about 3 tablespoons. Remove the shallot halves, then add the remaining clarified butter, and the tomato, chervil, salt and pepper and keep the dressing just warm over a very low heat. n Make sure your griddle is hot and add the fish fillets, skinside down. Cook for 1 minute, then flip them over and cook for 30 seconds on the other side, pressing down on the top of each fillet in turn with the back of a fish slice to help mark them with the lines from the griddle. Lift the fillets each on to 4 warmed plates and spoon the dressing around each piece of fish to serve.
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SERVES 4 115g caster sugar pared zest of 1 small lemon 225g raspberries 115g red currants 90g blackcurrants 25g white currants (or more red currants if you can’t get white) 4–6 thin slices of white bread from a large loaf, crusts removed double cream, to serve fresh berries, to decorate (optional) You Will Need 150–200ml individual pudding moulds x 4 n Put the sugar and 75ml of water into a pan and leave them over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Add the pared lemon zest, bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the zest and blend 1ó tablespoons of the sugar syrup with 50g of the raspberries. Press the mixture through a sieve into a bowl to remove the seeds. Add the red currants, blackcurrants and white currants to the remaining syrup in the pan and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining 175g of raspberries and the sieved raspberry sauce.
RICK STEIN’S SUMMER PUDDING
n Tip the fruit into a sieve set over a bowl to collect the syrup. Dip the slices of bread briefly into the syrup and set two aside for the lids. Use the other slices of bread (you may not need them all) to line the bases and sides of the four pudding moulds, overlapping the pieces slightly to make sure there are no gaps. n Spoon in the fruit equally between the moulds and then spoon a tablespoon of the remaining syrup over each portion. Cover each neatly with the reserved syrupdipped bread, then wrap the tops of the puddings with cling film. Place a small plate on top of each and secure that with something heavy (a tin of beans is good) to weigh the plate down. Transfer the weighted moulds to the fridge to chill overnight, along with any remaining syrup.
ON SALE NOW Extract taken from The Seafood Restaurant Cookbook by Rick and Jill Stein (Jon Croft Editions, Hardback, £35). Photographs © Rick Stein/Sam A Harris.
n To serve, carefully run a knife around the inside edge of each pudding mould. Invert each pudding on to a serving plate, spoon over any remaining syrup and serve with double cream, and with fresh berries, if you wish.
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Heard it through the
GRAPEVINE
SICILIAN SUNSET
Our monthly digest from Ketton’s Rutland Vineyard with Zoe & Tim Beaver
Malfy Gin Rosa, £28, 70cl, 41%, www.malfygin.com
It’s August at the Rutland Vineyard, and there’s plenty to celebrate. As the vines bask in the summer sunshine, our grapes are growing bigger, and juicier, with every passing day. The vineyard continues to flourish, and all the signs point towards another exceptional vintage in the making.
Malfy Gin Rosa combines Italian juniper with pink grapefruit and Sicilian citrus for a bright, elegant summer serve. Fresh, gently bittersweet and beautifully aromatic, it is ideal poured over ice with tonic and a slice of grapefruit. Stylish and refreshing, it brings effortless Riviera glamour to late summer garden entertaining!
WINE & SPIRITS This month we’ve a handselected range of wines and spirits for a luxurious summer treat, and we’ll catch up with Zoe and Tim Beaver at Ketton Vineyard as the sun continues to shine on the vines as well as the virtuous...
Three Fine Wines For Discerning Summer Palates Domaines Ott Château de Selle Rosé, wild strawberry, peach and citrus peel notes. £42, 75cl, 14% ABV. www.domainesott.com.
The next best thing to being in Tuscany, enjoy plum, cherry and luxury. £153, 75cl, 14% ABV. www.leaandsandeman.co.uk.
Weingut Riesling with lime, white peach and wet slate minerality. £55, 75cl, 7.5% ABV.www.drloosen.de.
Cause for celebration as our eagerly anticipated Triple Tipple Red is almost ready to launch and will soon take its place alongside our muchloved Triple Tipple White Wine, our newly awardwinning Rosé, and First Fizz. Awards for our wine have also continued to roll in. We are incredibly proud to have received Bronze Awards for both our Second Nature Red and First Fizz at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine & Spirit Awards. Even more encouraging is the fact that our red wine has missed out on a Silver by just a single point on each occasion: a wonderful achievement and testimony to its quality. As harvest season draws closer, there is a real sense of anticipation across the vineyard. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm! Visit The Rutland Vineyard’s tasting barn, Ketton, from Wed-Sat, therutlandvineyard.com.
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THE GUIDE
I N S I D E : W H AT ’ S O N • T H E AT R E
• FILMS • BOOKS • MUSIC • 39
Rutland & Stamford
What’s On 40
Twelfth Night, Tolethorpe.
1st31st Aug Live Theatre at Tolethorpe
1st15th Aug The Silence of the Lambs ‘Pfft-pfft-pfft-pfft-pfft...’ never has such a silly noise inspired such terror, but Sir Anthony Hopkins’ entirely adlibbed slurp remains one of cinema’s iconic moments. It’s a brave man that faces down Hannibal Lecter but an even braver one that takes on the role of one of the most terrifying complex villains ever created. Stepping into the role is John Partridge, former EastEnder, who matches wits with an upandcoming FBI agent. When FBI trainee Clarice Starling is sent to interview the psychiatrist and infamous murderer Hannibal Lecter, it’s hoped his brilliant mind will help catch sadistic new serial killer, Buffalo Bill. Another girl is missing, and time is running out.
But Dr Lecter has questions of his own, and now Clarice must decide: keep a safe distance, or let Hannibal ‘The Cannibal’ into her head? This month, The Silence of the Lambs makes its world stage debut as a Made at Curve production, under the creative direction of Nikolai Foster who, we imagine, will never look at a bowl of fava beans the same way and may need a decent Chianti after rehearsal, to steady his nerves... From Saturday 1st to Saturday 15th August, 7.20pm, (2.15pm matinée on Sat 8th August), ticket prices vary, see www.curveonline.co.uk.
With three spectacular productions staged across selected dates from 1st29th August, Tolethorpe Hall’s openair theatre season promises an unforgettable summer of entertainment beneath the stars. Shakespeare’s muchloved comedy Twelfth Night arrives from 12th15th August, bringing mistaken identities, practical jokes and chaotic romance to the Tudor gardens of Illyria. Following a shipwreck, Viola disguises herself as the boy Cesario and becomes entangled in a whirlwind of confusion involving Duke Orsino, Countess Olivia and the gloriously pompous Malvolio. Adventure takes centre stage too, with Treasure Island on selected dates throughout August. This acclaimed adaptation reimagines Jim Hawkins as the granddaughter of the Admiral Benbow Inn’s owner, setting sail on a thrilling journey filled with pirates, deception and buried treasure. Featuring Long John Silver, sea shanties and high seas drama, it’s an exhilarating familyfriendly production. Meanwhile, audiences can expect riotous laughter from One Man, Two Guvnors, staged across August. Set in Brighton in 1963, this smash hit comedy follows the perpetually hungry Francis Henshall as he attempts to juggle two employers without either discovering the other. Three productions run concurrently. See website for times and performances, call 01780 917240 or see www.tolethorpe.co.uk.
5th23rd Aug
14th16th Aug
In the Mood at Grimsthorpe.
Legends Live at Rockingham Castle
Live at Kilworth Enjoying the setting of Kilworth House Hotel’s adjacent outdoor theatre (covered in case of bad weather), Live at Kilworth returns this August with another packed programme of open air entertainment. This year’s line up offers something for every musical taste, from tributes to legendary artists through to spectacular live productions and West End favourites. Audiences can enjoy evenings celebrating the music of ABBA, Billy Joel, Coldplay, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Marley and Queen, alongside performances inspired by Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton and Tina Turner. Musical theatre fans can also look forward to Beyond the Barricade, while The Last Night of the Proms promises a traditional summer finale filled with flag waving favourites and orchestral classics. The outdoor theatre itself remains one of the region’s hidden gems, set within a wooded glade beside the lake at Kilworth House. Comfortable tiered seating and the venue’s sweeping covered canopy ensure performances can be enjoyed whatever the weather, while pretheatre dining and overnight stays add to the experience for those seeking a memorable summer escape.
5th8th Aug The Last Laugh Imagining three of Britain’s alltime greatest comedy heroes – Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse all in a dressing room, discussing the secret of life, death, comedy and what it means to be funny. Wed 5th to Saturday 8th Aug, £25, New Theatre Peterborough, 7.30pm, newtheatre-peterborough.com.
8th August In The Mood 1940s Concert
Lissie Allsopp presents an uplifting afternoon of 1940s songs, at Grimsthorpe Castle near Bourne. From stirring wartime classics, to toe tapping swing numbers, this event captures the spirit of a golden era in music. Take along a picnic and enjoy the beautiful grounds! www.grimsthorpe.co.uk.
Whether you are planning a relaxed evening with friends or a special celebration, Live at Kilworth offers a stylish combination of live music, theatre and summer atmosphere in an unforgettable setting. For a full programme of events, see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.
Rockingham Castle hosts three spectacular evenings of live entertainment this August with its popular By Moonlight concert series. On Friday 14th August, Legends Live brings together the music of ABBA and Queen beneath the stars, featuring acclaimed tribute acts 21st Century ABBA and Live Queen Experience. Expect a night packed with iconic singalong favourites from pop music’s greatest bands. Saturday 15th August celebrates the unforgettable sounds of the 1980s with Legends of the 80s by Moonlight, promising an evening of huge hits, nostalgia and dancefloor classics inspired by the decade of big hair and bold fashion. The weekend concludes on Sunday 16th August with Taylor Swift by Moonlight, as tribute act Fearlessly Taylor recreates hits from the global superstar’s remarkable career. Set within the magnificent grounds of Rockingham Castle, each evening combines live music with spectacular surroundings and a relaxed festival atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and outdoor seating for a series of concerts that promise memorable evenings of music, and entertainment for audiences of all ages. Full ticket price £32, gates 5.30pm, acts 7pm, see rockinghamcastle.com
Live at Kilworth.
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14th16th Aug The Rutland Flower Show Sponsored by Gates Garden Centre, the Rutland Flower Show returns to Rutland Showground from 14th to 16th August, promising three colourful days celebrating gardening, flowers, food and family entertainment. Visitors can enjoy spectacular show gardens, floral displays and produce competitions alongside expert talks and demonstrations from well known names in horticulture. The Rutland Garden Theatre will host appearances from television gardeners and industry specialists, offering advice and inspiration for every level of knowledge from experienced growers to enthusiastic beginners. Beyond the blooms, the event features artisan shopping,
Rutland Flower Show.
craft stalls and a Fine Foods Marquee packed with regional treats and summer favourites. Live music and entertainment across the showground create a relaxed festival atmosphere, while younger visitors can enjoy family activities, and outdoor games. Nurseries and specialist exhibitors will also be on hand with plants, tools and ideas for late summer planting. Whether you are searching for inspiration for your own garden or simply looking for a memorable summer day out, the Rutland Flower Show is set to be one of the county’s standout events this August. With flypasts, workshops and plenty of opportunities to browse planting schemes, it is an ideal occasion to gather ideas, meet experts and celebrate the best of the season. For more information see www.rutlandflowershow.co.uk.
15th August
Air Ambulance Charity Garden Party at Lamport Hall Hosted by Lamport Hall, which has adopted the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance as its charity of the year, this special Charity Garden Party takes place on Saturday 15th August in the estate’s beautiful walled garden. The elegant summer evening promises live jazz music, relaxed surroundings and fundraising in support of the lifesaving service. Guests will enjoy a welcome drink alongside a selection of canapes including pig’s cheek croquette with apple compote, homemade Scotch quail egg and Eton Mess spoons. The programme includes drinks and canapés from 6.30pm, speeches at 7.30pm and a charity auction raising vital funds for the service before carriages at 9pm. Seventyfive percent of every ticket sold will directly support the charity. Lamport Hall, NN6 9EZ, call 01604 686272 or see www.lamporthall.co.uk.
15th August A Night to Remember Motown Show
Take a trip back to 1960s Detroit with the celebrated stage production, A Night To Remember Motown Show. Bizzi Dixon and the Motown Divas, harmoniously backed by the amazing show band to authentically recreate the sound responsible for lifting an entire generation to its feet. Curve Theatre, Saturday 15th August, 7.15pm, call 0116 242 3595 or see curveonline.co.uk.
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15th August
29th31st Aug
Lincolnshire Youth Ballet presents the iconic Swan Lake, featuring the region’s most talented young ballet dancers alongside principal dancers Paul Meneu and Lucy Imamzade. All original choreography from Maggie Skinner and Henri Tatton, this flock of over fifty swans promises a feast for the eyes for all the family to enjoy. Stamford Corn Exchange, 1pm, 6pm, tickets £18, call 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.
Returning to Burghley House this August, the Burghley Summer Fine Food Market promises a wonderful celebration of artisan produce, local flavours and relaxed summer shopping in one of the region’s most beautiful settings. Taking place within the historic estate grounds, the popular event brings together independent food producers, drink specialists and gourmet exhibitors from across the region.
Lincolnshire Youth Ballet: Swan Lake
17th August National Youth String Orchestra
Join the National Youth String Orchestra’s senior ensemble at the close of this year’s summer residency in Stamford. Founded in 1995, NYSO is one of the UK’s most prestigious training orchestras for string players up to the age of 21. During the day Camerata and Sinfonia ensembles will perform Arensky, Bizet, Boyce, Kuula, Nielsen, Rautavaara and Respighi. The evening performance will include Dvořák, Gipps, Mozart and Stravinsky. Monday 17th August, 3pm, Tuesday 18th August, 6pm, £15, Stamford Arts Centre, 01780 763 203 or see www.stamfordartscentre.com.
Summer Fine Food Market
Lady Windermere’s Fan.
28th August
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and Lady Windermere’s Fan at the Cathedral Make friends with Dorothy, the Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow this month as The Wizard of Oz is performed live in the cloisters of Peterborough Cathedral. DOT Productions’ version of Frank L. Baum’s Wonderful
Lincolnshire Youth Ballet.
Wizard of Oz is a fastpaced 60minute production that’s as colourful and lively as you’d expect. Then, from 7pm, the company presents Oscar Wilde’s Lady Windermere’s Fan, a sparkling revival brimming with wit, charm, and the company’s signature comedic flair and featuring Oscar Wilde’s sparkling script. Peterborough Cathedral, £13-£45, call 01733 355315, peterborough-cathedral.org.uk.
Visitors can browse stalls filled with freshly baked breads, handmade cakes, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, preserves, chocolates and locally produced meats, alongside craft spirits, wines and speciality coffees. Street food vendors will also be serving an impressive range of dishes throughout the day, creating a lively festival atmosphere perfect for a leisurely summer outing with family and friends. The market has become a favourite seasonal event for food lovers seeking quality produce and inspiration for summer entertaining. Alongside the shopping, guests can enjoy live music, outdoor seating areas and opportunities to meet the passionate producers behind many of the products on offer. Burghley House, free entry, see www.burghley.co.uk.
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LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Live at
Kilworth
A
s summer reaches its height, few experiences can rival an evening of live music in the beautiful surroundings of Kilworth House Hotel & Theatre. Set within elegant parkland in rural Leicestershire, the award winning country house hotel and its renowned open-air venue and a spectacular backdrop for Live at Kilworth, a month-long celebration of music in August. The theatre was founded in 2007 with a vision to transform the grounds of Kilworth House into one of the country’s most distinctive outdoor performance venues. Today, its covered 550-seat auditorium hosts a programme of acclaimed productions and concerts, attracting audiences from across the East Midlands and beyond. Live at Kilworth has become one of the region’s most anticipated summer entertainment events, combining outstanding performances with a unique setting. This year’s programme once again showcases a diverse selection of artists and productions inspired by some of the world’s best-loved performers and musical genres. From classic pop favourites and celebrated tribute acts to orchestral performances and crowd-pleasing concert spectaculars, there is something to appeal to every musical taste. Whether enjoyed as part of a day out, an evening of dining and entertainment, or a luxury overnight stay, Live at Kilworth remains one of the highlights of the summer season.
5th August: Talon, The Best of Eagles
15th August: The Dolly Show
6th August: ABBA Revival
16th August: The Proms
7th August: One Night of Billy Joel 8th August: Man in the Mirror
18th August: Legend Live, The Music of Bob Marley
9th August: Beyond the Barricade
19th August: Totally Tina
11th August: Sky Full of Stars, A Tribute to Coldplay
20th August: Rock ‘n’ Roll Party
12th August: A Country Night in Nashville
21st August: Go Your Own Way, Fleetwood Mac Tribute
13th August: Take That vs Robbie
22nd August: Taylormania, Taylor Swift Tribute by Katy Ellis
14th August: ELO Again
23rd August: The Bohemians
Prices from £35/person, performances typically start at 8pm, optional dining and accommodation packages, call 01858 880058 or see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk. Kilworth House Hotel is located on Lutterworth Road, North Kilworth LE17 6JE.
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Beyond Rutland & Stamford
1st31st Aug BBC Proms The BBC Proms remains one of Britain’s most treasured cultural institutions. Founded in 1895 and presented by the BBC since 1927, the world’s largest classical music festival returns to London’s Royal Albert Hall this summer, with a programme of more than 80 concerts celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence alongside the very best international orchestras, conductors and soloists.
1st31st Aug
Entertainment
Glyndebourne Festival Opera Few events encapsulate the elegance of the English summer season quite like the Glyndebourne Festival. Held in the grounds of the Christie family’s country estate near Lewes in East Sussex, the festival has been synonymous with worldclass opera, blacktie glamour and champagne picnics since its founding in 1934. Today it remains one of the most prestigious fixtures in the international cultural calendar. The 2026 Festival runs from 21st May until 30th August and presents six productions, including two operas being staged at Glyndebourne for the very first time. Puccini’s passionate thriller Tosca opens the season, running from 21st May to 22nd June
and returning from 4th to 30th August. Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo, another Glyndebourne first, runs from 14th June to 25th July. Richard Strauss’s Ariadne auf Naxos is presented from 19th July to 29th August, while Rossini’s sparkling comedy Il turco in Italia runs from 23rd May to 9th July. Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serail opens on 31st July and continues until 28th August, while Britten’s acclaimed Billy Budd returns in a revival production during the latter part of the season. Whether enjoying fine dining in one of the festival’s restaurants or spreading a picnic rug on the immaculate lawns during the famously generous interval, a visit to Glyndebourne remains one of Britain’s most civilised and unforgettable cultural experiences. Lewes, East Sussex, see www.glyndebourne.com.
August offers some of the season’s most anticipated performances. On 1st August, the Aurora Orchestra presents its acclaimed memory performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, performed entirely without sheet music. On 11th and 12th August, Gustavo Dudamel conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in two major concerts featuring works by Beethoven, Thomas Adès and Gabriela Ortiz. The celebrated Chineke! Orchestra joins American soprano Angel Blue on 22nd August, while on 23rd August the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra makes a rare London appearance under Yannick NézetSéguin, performing Mahler. Other highlights include Bond and Beyond on 25th August, celebrating the music of James Bond films, and Disney composer Alan Menken’s Enchanted concert on 27th August. Whether enjoying an £8 Promming ticket in the arena or a seat beneath the Hall’s famous dome, the Proms remains one of Britain’s most inspiring and accessible musical experiences. For more information see www.royalalberthall.com.
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1st31st Aug
12th Aug
Abigail’s Party.
Cambridge Shakespeare Festival
The Cambridge Shakespeare Festival returns this month to the beautiful private gardens of Cambridge University’s historic colleges. Founded in 1987, the festival has grown into one of the UK’s most celebrated openair theatre events, attracting more than 25,000 visitors each year to enjoy Shakespeare performed in glorious surroundings, complete with period costume and live Elizabethan music. August visitors can enjoy Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream run from 3rd29th August in the gardens of St John’s and Trinity Colleges respectively, while The Merchant of Venice is staged in Downing College Gardens over the same period. Many visitors arrive early with a picnic hamper, enjoying the tranquil college gardens before the performance. Tickets £25/adults, £20/conc, see cambridgeshakespeare.com.
1st7th Aug Cowes Week
Celebrating its bicentenary in 2026, Cowes Week marks 200 years since the first regatta on the Solent in 1826. Britain’s most prestigious sailing event combines worldclass yacht racing and a vibrant social calendar. See our feature later in Pride.
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Abigail’s Party Abigail’s Party arrives at the West End for a strictly limited run at the Harold Pinter Theatre, starring Tamzin Outhwaite as Beverly in this biting, cringefuelled snapshot of 1970s suburban life. Mike Leigh’s original play became a cultural phenomenon after its broadcast in the Play for Today series, watched by around 16 million viewers. Running until the end of September. www.londontheatredirect.com.
7th31st Aug Edinburgh International Festival & Fringe The Edinburgh International Festival runs from 7th–30th August, presenting worldclass opera, classical music, theatre and dance from leading international companies and performers. Running alongside it is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Shakespeare in Cambridge.
7th–31st August, the world’s largest arts festival, whilst the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returns to the Castle from 7th–29th August, combining stirring music courtesy of massed pipes, drums and skilful performers. Edinburgh’s International Film Festival, 13th–19th August, and The Edinburgh International Book Festival, 15th–30th August, also take place this month. See www.visitscotland.com.
14th August As You Like It One of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies returns to the Globe this summer in a vibrant new production of As You Like It. Running from 14th August to 25th October, the production is codirected by Sean Holmes and Charlie Josephine, transforming the Globe’s famous openair stage into a joyous forest festival filled with music, romance and selfdiscovery. When Rosalind and her cousin Celia flee a hostile court for the magical Forest of Arden, they encounter mistaken identities, unexpected romances and some of Shakespeare’s most memorable characters. Visitors can expect an unforgettable evening of theatre beside the Thames. www.shakespearesglobe.com.
20th/23rd Aug Eric Clapton & Lionel Richie at Sandringham Norfolk’s Royal Sandringham Estate provides the backdrop for two of the summer’s most anticipated outdoor concerts as Heritage Live returns to Norfolk with a stellar lineup of international music legends. On Thursday 20th August, global superstar Lionel Richie performs his only UK show of 2026. With more than 125 million records sold worldwide, the singer songwriter’s catalogue includes timeless hits such as Hello, Dancing on the Ceiling, Three Times a Lady and All Night Long, ensuring a memorable evening beneath the Norfolk skies. Then, on Sunday 23rd August, rock and blues icon Eric Clapton headlines an exclusive UK performance. The only musician to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times, Clapton will be joined by Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, alongside Andy Fairweather Low & The Low Riders and acclaimed blues harmonica player Will Wilde.
Until 16th Aug Titanic Exhibition
From its creation at Belfast’s Harland & Wolff Shipyard, to its fateful voyage and tragic sinking, and finally to its rediscovery at the bottom of the Atlantic, this exhibition, at London’s Olympia, traces the Titanic’s story and enduring legacy. Discover an extraordinary collection of genuine artefacts some recovered from the sea shortly after the disaster, others uncovered decades later from the seabed. Through powerful storytelling and personal belongings, experience life on board through the eyes of first, second, and thirdclass passengers, as well as the dedicated crew who kept the ship running. Atmospheric sets and soundscapes bring a centurylong story to life. See www.olympia.co.uk.
19th August
>>
First Test at Headingley
One of the highlights of the summer sporting calendar arrives at Headingley this August as England take on Pakistan in the opening match of a threeTest Rothesay Test Series. Beginning on 19th August and played over five days, Test cricket remains the sport’s ultimate contest, combining skill, patience and strategy at the highest level. Headingley is among the world’s most historic cricket grounds, hosting international matches since 1899 and famed for producing some of the game’s most dramatic moments. With the two teams renewing one of cricket’s great rivalries, spectators can expect five enthralling days of worldclass sport. General admission £45-£135, see www.yorkshireccc.com.
Heritage Live at Sandringham this month offers music lovers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy legendary performers in one of Britain’s most beautiful and historic settings. For more information see www.heritagelive.net.
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21st23rd Aug
Raymond Blanc, Big Feastival.
Hampton Court Palace Food Festival
The British Motor Show This year’s British Motor Show returns to Farnborough showcasing the latest newcar launches, cutting edge technology and some of the world’s most desirable marques. Visitors can explore everything from luxury saloons and performance SUVs to supercars, while manufacturers unveil their newest models and innovations. Get behind the wheel, with prebookable test drives and enjoy exclusive displays, motorsport exhibits and interactive attractions. One of the best automotive showcases for enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. www.thebritishmotorshow.live
22nd23rd Aug The Bosworth Medieval Festival History lovers return to the site of one of the most significant battles in English history. Held at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, near Market Bosworth, the event commemorates the Battle of Bosworth of 1485, which saw Henry Tudor defeat Richard III and usher in the Tudor dynasty.
28th30th Aug Alex James’ Big Feastival
Set amid the rolling countryside of the Cotswolds, The Big Feastival is the perfect celebration of Britain’s finest food, farming and culture. Hosted by former Blur bassist, turned awardwinning cheesemaker, Alex James on his Cotswold farm, the festival combines exceptional produce, acclaimed chefs and
See bosworthbattlefield.org.uk.
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artisan food with a relaxed yet distinctly stylish atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy cookery demonstrations, tastings, and popup restaurants all with a strong emphasis on provenance and the very best of British agriculture. Alongside the culinary delights, enjoy a programme of live music, comedy and family entertainment, and the excuse for a weekend away in the Cotswolds.
Set against the magnificent backdrop of Henry VIII’s former royal residence, the Hampton Court Palace Food Festival returns over the August Bank Holiday weekend, with hundreds of exhibitors. Live music, popup bars and cookery demonstrations add to the festival atmosphere. Your ticket also includes entry to Hampton Court Palace and its spectacular grounds, allowing visitors to explore the famous Tudor apartments and wander through the beautifully restored formal gardens. Combining fine food, royal history and some of England’s most celebrated gardens, the festival offers a wonderfully civilised latesummer day out and an excellent excuse for a weekend escape to Surrey. See www.hrp.org.uk.
See www.bigfeastival.com.
30th31st Aug
Attracting thousands of visitors, the festival includes a medieval encampment, complete with costumed reenactors, living history displays and a lively medieval market. Highlights include largescale battle reenactments, artillery demonstrations, falconry displays, music, storytelling, period fashion shows and author talks, alongside plenty of familyfriendly activities.
29th31st Aug
Notting Hill Carnival
British Motor Show.
First held in 1966, Notting Hill Carnival attracts more than two million visitors each year, filling the streets of Notting Hill with colourful costumes, spectacular parade floats, steel bands, live music and some of the capital’s finest Caribbean food. The main parade takes place on Monday 31st August. See www.nhcarnival.org.
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THE GUIDE
August Cinema Releases
& Sons
Sunny Dancer
Spa Weekend
& Sons arrives in cinemas this August as a warmhearted comedydrama exploring family tensions, inheritance and the complexities of modern relationships. Centred around a struggling family business, the film blends understated British humour with emotional depth as generations clash over the future of the company. Strong ensemble performances from a cast of respected British actors, with themes of loyalty, legacy and reconciliation at its core, making this a compelling drama. Charming, witty and quietly moving.
Sunny Dancer is among the most charming British releases arriving in cinemas this August, offering an uplifting blend of humour, heart and gentle escapism. The film follows an unlikely friendship formed when 17year old Ivy is sent to summer dance camp following her recovery from cancer, where personal reinvention and second chances take centre stage. Warm, optimistic and effortlessly feelgood, Sunny Dancer looks set to become a favourite with those seeking thoughtful entertainment.
Spa Weekend offers a chaotic mix of comedy, romance and midlife chaos set against the luxurious backdrop of an exclusive countryside wellness retreat. Starring Isla Fisher, Leslie Mann, Anna Faris and comedian Michelle Buteau, the film follows a group of lifelong friends whose supposedly relaxing getaway quickly descends into hilarious disorder. Featuring sharp humour with themes of friendship, reinvention and second chances, it promises glossy, feelgood entertainment for grownup audiences.
Cliffhanger
The Death of Robin Hood
Bitter Christmas
A modern reimagining of the 1993 action classic which starred Sylvester Stallone. The reboot stars Lily James and Pierce Brosnan, with the story shifting to the Italian Alps where a mountain rescue expert becomes entangled in a dangerous heist during a luxury climbing expedition. Combining highaltitude suspense with glossy action set pieces, the film explores survival, betrayal and resilience against spectacular snowy landscapes. Stylish and fastpaced, it promises a sophisticated contemporary edge.
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A dark, reflective take on the legendary outlaw. The film stars Hugh Jackman as an ageing Robin Hood alongside Jodie Comer, Bill Skarsgård and Murray Bartlett. Set during the final years of Robin’s life, the story explores mortality, redemption and the fading of myth as the oncefeared outlaw confronts his past in the forests of Sherwood. Atmospheric and rich, the film promises a mature, reimagining of the classic English legend.
Bitter Christmas is Pedro Almodóvar’s Spanish tragicomedy, released in UK cinemas on 28th August. Starring Bárbara Lennie, Leonardo Sbaraglia, Aitana SánchezGijón, Victoria Luengo, Patrick Criado, Milena Smit and Quim Gutiérrez, it follows Elsa, an advertising director struggling to process grief after her mother’s death during Christmas. A trip to Lanzarote with a friend becomes entwined with a filmmaker’s own story, blurring life and fiction. Elegant, reflective and witty.
Lady
The Dog Stars
Lady arrives in cinemas this August as an eccentric British comedydrama blending sharp satire with surreal humour. Starring Fleabag actress Sian Clifford alongside Juliet Cowan and Laurie Kynaston, the film follows aristocratic socialite Lady Isabella, who hires a documentary crew to capture her glamorous life — only for events to spiral into increasingly bizarre territory. Directed by Samuel Abrahams, the film explores fame, loneliness and privilege with wit and warmth. Stylish, offbeat and distinctly British!
The Dog Stars is a postapocalyptic drama directed by Ridley Scott and based on Peter Heller’s acclaimed novel. Starring Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley and Josh Brolin, the film follows a lone pilot surviving in a devastated American wilderness after a deadly pandemic. When a mysterious radio transmission offers hope of human connection, he embarks on a dangerous journey across the country. Combining emotional depth with striking visuals, The Dog Stars explores survival and companionship.
The End of Oak Street
The Odyssey
500 Miles
Ish
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 that Nolan is known for. An ancient story meets hightech cinematography and the result is, er... epic.
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.
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 End of Oak Street is an intriguing scifi mystery from acclaimed director David Robert Mitchell. Starring Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor, the film follows an ordinary suburban family whose quiet neighbourhood is suddenly transported into a strange and dangerous new world after a mysterious cosmic event. Blending suspense, adventure and emotional family drama, the story explores survival, loyalty and resilience.
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PITCH UP THEATRE PRESENTS ALICE IN WONDERLAND Friday 7th August, 4:30pm
WARWICKSHIRE & NORTHAMPTONSHIRE AIR AMBULANCE CHARITY GARDEN PARTY Saturday 15th August, 6:30pm
DEATH OF A CLOWN SOLO DRAMA PERFORMANCE Friday 21st August, 7:30pm
ANTIQUES AND VINTAGE FAIR 30th & 31st August, 9am-4pm
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THE GUIDE
AUGUST BOOK RELEASES
The Barman of the Ritz
The Secret of Secrets
Philippe Collin
Dan Brown
Based on a true story. When the Ritz becomes the Nazis’ favourite spot, its celebrated bartender Frank Meier has no choice but to keep working. But he is hiding a secret that no one can find out: he is Jewish. Frank refuses to flee and with the unwitting help of the Nazis, eventually uncovers secrets that help keep him and his loved ones alive, especially his young apprentice and Blanche, wife of the director of the Ritz and Frank’s impossible love, both of whom are Jewish.
Accompanying celebrated academic, Katherine Solomon, to a lecture she’s been invited to give in Prague, Robert Langdon’s world spirals out of control when she disappears without a trace from their hotel room. Langdon must pit his wits against forces unknown to recover the woman he loves. But Prague is an old and dangerous place, steeped in folklore and mystery. Little can Langdon know that he is being stalked by a spectre from that dark past. Published late July, £19.95.
Released 20th August, £18.99.
The Cauldron Simon Sebag Montefiore
The Middle East has forever been the epicentre of our tumultuous world. Few know its real history; fewer still understand its variety and cosmopolitanism, its complexity. In The Cauldron, Simon Sebag Montefiore delivers a fresh and unique history of the entire region in all its diversity, from 1900 up to the present day. From the Ottoman sultanate to the Trump presidency, this is a dazzling panorama of faith and fanaticism. Published 25th Aug, £25.
AUGUST’S MUSIC PICK
Foreign Tongues Good lord... are they still going?!? Yes, and
The Rolling Stones
bluesrock swagger with a more reflective,
Produced once again by Andrew Watt, the collection reportedly features collaborations with Paul McCartney, Robert Smith and Steve Winwood, alongside one of the final recordings by late drummer Charlie Watts. Early singles to watch out for are In The Stars and Rough and Twisted.
internationally inspired sound.
Pre-order £12.99/CD, £35.99/LP.
then some. The Rolling Stones return this summer with Foreign Tongues, their 25th studio album and the eagerly awaited followup to 2023’s Hackney Diamonds. Expected in midtolate July, the record is said to blend the band’s trademark
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The New Dark Ages James Marriott Books are dying. Across the world the number of people reading is in free fall. Literacy is declining or stagnating in most developed countries. Addictive digital entertainment technologies have colonised our free time. The New Dark Ages is an impassioned attack on the trivial and meaningless culture of the screen and a defence of the written word, arguing that reading and writing are essential for innovation, creativity and critical thinking. Release late August, £14.99.
60,000 READERS PRINT & DIGITAL
Beautifully designed. Carefully delivered. Read by the region’s most affluent households. Download our media pack for more information www.pridemagazines.co.uk or sales@pridemagazines.co.uk
P RIDE MAGAZINES
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LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND WILDLIFE TRUST
Wildlife Trust’s Triple
Anniversary T
his summer marks a remarkable milestone for Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust. In 2026, the organisation celebrates 70 years since its foundation, alongside two other significant anniversaries: 50 years since the creation of Rutland Water Nature Reserve and 30 years since the launch of the pioneering Rutland Osprey Project. Together, the anniversaries provide an opportunity to reflect on one of the region’s most significant conservation success stories. Today, the Trust manages more than 30 nature reserves covering around 3,000 acres, supported by 34 members of staff, 700 volunteers and 20,000 members across Leicestershire and Rutland. Leading the organisation is Chief Executive Mat Carter, who describes the role as his dream job after a career spent with organisations including Natural England, the Environment Agency, the National Trust and the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. “The attraction for me was coming to an organisation where we can see local actions, real improvements on the ground and make a difference to sites,” says Mat. “Wildlife Trusts are really good at that because they are local organisations working on local landscapes.”
Bigger, Better and More Connected The Trust’s reserves range from ancient woodland and species rich grassland to wetlands and lakes, providing habitats for an extraordinary variety of wildlife. Rutland Water Nature Reserve remains one of the region’s richest
sites for biodiversity, and this summer marked a special milestone with the Big 50 Wildlife Recording Event, held as part of celebrations for the reserve’s 50th anniversary. Over 50 hours, wildlife experts, local naturalists and visitors worked together to record as many species as possible, bringing the reserve closer to its ambitious ‘5,000 in 50’ challenge, the goal of reaching 5,000 recorded species in the reserve’s history by the end of 2026. The event also highlighted the importance of community science, with an identification hub helping visitors contribute valuable records. Every new species recorded strengthens our understanding of the reserve and helps guide future conservation, ensuring Rutland Water continues to thrive as one of the country’s most important places for wildlife. The Success of Rutland Water Rutland Water remains the Trust’s flagship reserve and one of the country’s most important nature conservation sites. The reserve was established alongside the construction of the reservoir half a century ago and has since become internationally recognised for its wildlife. “It’s a fabulous county,” says Mat. “The more I’ve been here, the more I keep discovering really interesting areas and new places.” Today the reserve attracts thousands of visitors annually while continuing to support an extraordinary range of wildlife. The diversity reflects the geology and landscapes found across Leicestershire and Rutland.
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LEICESTERSHIRE & RUTLAND WILDLIFE TRUST
“I think Leicestershire and Rutland has some of the most diverse habitats across the UK,” says Mat. “That gives you an incredibly diverse mixture of species and habitats.”
adding to one of Britain’s greatest modern conservation success stories.
The Trust carefully balances conservation with public access. “People won’t value what they don’t experience,” says Mat. “We want people to value nature and fight on its behalf. In order to do that, they need to see it, understand it and enjoy it.”
Partnership working has been central to many of the Trust’s achievements. Mat is keen to challenge the perception that conservation and development must always be in conflict. “It doesn’t have to be growth or nature,” he says. “It can actually be both.”
Thirty Years of Ospreys The most celebrated conservation achievement associated with Rutland Water is undoubtedly the Rutland Osprey Project. Launched in 1996 under the leadership of former reserve manager Tim Appleton, the project saw young ospreys translocated from Scotland to Rutland in an ambitious attempt to restore breeding populations to England. Thirty years later, the results have exceeded expectations.
The Trust works closely with farmers, businesses, developers and landowners to improve habitats beyond its own reserves. Recent projects include partnerships with housebuilders David Wilson and the Greener Golf initiative, which helps golf clubs enhance biodiversity across their courses.
The project, developed through a partnership between the Trust and Anglian Water, has helped establish a healthy breeding population centred on Rutland Water. One of the reserve’s best known residents is Maya, a female osprey whose nest continues to attract global interest through the reserve’s live cameras. “She’s done an amazing job of continually coming back to the site and successfully breeding,” says Mat. This year, Maya is once again raising three chicks at Manton Bay,
The Power of Partnerships
“We can’t see nature recover on our own,” says Mat. “We need all those other organisations and individuals interested in supporting that work.” As the Trust celebrates its landmark year, the focus remains firmly on the future. “We want everybody to become a champion for nature,” says Mat. “That happens when people get out onto sites, experience wildlife and see the value and joy that it brings.” “We’re lucky to have so many sites, a really well-received magazine and, these days, so many ways to keep in touch with our members to ensure everyone can feel enfranchised in experiencing the natural world.” www.lrwt.org.uk
30 YEARS OF RUTLAND OSPREYS The Rutland Osprey Project has become one of Britain’s most celebrated conservation success stories. Launched in 1996 by Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust and Anglian Water, the project sought to return ospreys to central England after an absence of more than 150 years. Young birds were translocated from Scotland to Rutland Water, and in 2001 the first chick fledged from a Rutland nest. Today, the population is selfsustaining, with around 300 young ospreys having fledged from Rutland Water since that first successful breeding season. As the project celebrates its 30th anniversary, the Trust has launched its Wings for the Future appeal, aiming to raise £30,000 to support ongoing conservation work in Rutland. Visitors keen to learn more can purchase Tim Mackrill’s The Rutland Water Ospreys (2013) and his followup The Osprey (2024) from Lyndon Nature Reserve. Osprey Cruises aboard the Rutland Belle also provide a wonderful opportunity to see these magnificent birds, with evening sailings on Friday 7th and Wednesday 12th August from 6pm. www.rutlandwatercruises.com.
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COWES WEEK
Cowes
Week
From Saturday 1st to Friday 7th August, Cowes Week celebrates
its bicentenary with a week of worldclass yacht racing, waterfront hospitality and unrivalled socialising for more than 60,000 visitors, attracting hundreds of yachts and an affluent international crowd
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200 YEARS OF COWES WEEK
T
his August sees one of the most significant milestones in British sporting history as Cowes Week celebrates its bicentenary. Founded in 1826, the world-famous regatta marks 200 years of racing on the Solent, cementing its place as one of the most prestigious events in the international sailing calendar. Today the event attracts more than 60,000 visitors, around 500 boats, thousands of competitors and as many as 40 races each day, creating a spectacle that is every bit as much about society as it is sport. For many visitors, Cowes Week, which this year runs from Saturday 1st-Friday 7th, is less about crossing the finish line and more about being part of one of Britain’s most glamorous summer gatherings. Set against the elegant backdrop of the Isle of Wight, it remains a place where yacht owners, business leaders and visitors come together to enjoy a unique blend of competition and hospitality.
A Tradition Like No Other The story of Cowes Week began in August 1826 when just seven yachts competed for a Gold Cup worth £100. Organised under the auspices of what would later become the Royal Yacht Squadron, the regatta quickly established itself as a fixture of the British social season. Royal connections have always been central to its appeal. King George IV was an early supporter and successive monarchs maintained a close association with the event. During the Victorian era, Cowes became a fashionable destination for aristocrats and industrialists, transforming the regatta into a gathering where influence, wealth and social standing were often as important as sailing ability.
edge performance boats. The sight of hundreds of sails spread across the water creates an unforgettable panorama that attracts spectators from around the globe. Yet unlike many elite sporting events, Cowes Week maintains a remarkably inclusive spirit. Professional crews may battle fiercely for prestigious trophies, but they often share the same waters and social events as amateur competitors. It is this mixture of excellence and accessibility that has helped sustain the regatta’s popularity for two centuries. The Social Season Afloat For most, the real attraction may lie ashore rather than at sea. Cowes Week occupies a unique position within Britain’s summer calendar, arriving just after Glorious Goodwood and before the close of the holiday season. It has become a magnet for affluent visitors seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere where business, pleasure and socialising combine effortlessly. The waterfront comes alive with champagne receptions, private parties, networking events and exclusive hospitality experiences. Luxury yachts line the marinas while elegant marquees host lunches, dinners and cocktail gatherings that continue long after the day’s racing has concluded. Many visitors never set foot aboard a racing yacht, yet return year after year for the social experience alone.
That atmosphere endures today. While the boats have evolved from traditional cutters and elegant metre yachts to sophisticated racing machines equipped with the latest technology, the sense of occasion remains unchanged. A visit to Cowes Week still feels like stepping into one of Britain’s great summer traditions. Racing at the Highest Level At its heart, Cowes Week remains a serious sporting contest. Competitors range from Olympic medallists and professional sailors to enthusiastic amateurs and family crews. The Solent itself provides one of the world’s most challenging racecourses, with powerful tides, shifting winds and busy shipping channels testing even the most experienced helmsmen. Throughout the week, fleets compete across numerous classes, from classic yachts and cruiser racers to cutting
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Conversations that begin over a glass of English sparkling wine frequently develop into business opportunities, friendships or future collaborations. Few events provide such a natural environment for meeting like-minded people who share a passion for sailing, travel, luxury and lifestyle. The event’s appeal to premium brands reflects this affluent audience. Sponsors and partners over the years have included Range Rover, Garmin, Musto and Bolney English Wine, all brands that understand the value of associating with a discerning and influential clientele. Their presence contributes to an atmosphere that feels polished, aspirational and distinctly British. Celebrating the Bicentenary The 200th anniversary promises to be one of the most memorable editions in the regatta’s long history. Organisers are planning special races, commemorative events and enhanced entertainment to mark the milestone, creating an occasion that extends far beyond competitive sailing.
Visitors can expect an expanded programme of celebrations across Cowes, including live music, exhibitions and hospitality experiences designed to honour two centuries of maritime heritage. There is a palpable sense that this year’s regatta will become a landmark moment not only for sailing enthusiasts but for anyone who appreciates great British occasions. What makes Cowes Week so enduring is its ability to combine tradition with contemporary luxury. It offers the excitement of world-class sport, the beauty of the Solent in summer and the opportunity to socialise with an exceptionally diverse yet accomplished crowd. 200 years after those first yachts set sail from Cowes, the event remains as relevant as ever. For some it is a regatta. For others it is a networking opportunity, a holiday, a reunion or a celebration of a particular way of life. Most likely, it is all of those things at once. Cowes Week Regatta runs from Saturday 1st to Friday 7th August, see www.cowesweek.co.uk.
THE EDITOR. T H E PA S S I O N. ROB DAVIS EXECUTIVE EDITOR
25 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE. O N E I CO N I C I M PAC T.
T H A N K YO U, RO B .
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INSIDE: HOMES • INTERIORS • GARDENS • LUXURY PROPERTY • 69
WELCOME HOME
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THE BARN, BELTON IN RUTLAND
or Carrie and Ben Cripps, their rural home near Belton is ‘a slice of heaven.’ This Class Q property, simply called The Barn, is an impressive contemporary country home blissfully hidden away in countryside near the village of Belton in Rutland, offering open-plan living with three reception rooms, five bedrooms and a magnetic appeal for teenagers. The property has a swimming pool, gym and outdoor terraces that ensure the house is popular for both teenagers and adults seeking to entertain friends, especially on warm summer evenings. Set within 3.4 acres and surrounded by mature trees, the property began life as a former agricultural building which Carrie and Ben transformed into the striking home seen today.
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WELCOME HOME
When the couple first viewed the site in 2018, it wasn’t just the building that captured their imagination, but its setting. “The previous owner had planted lots of different species of trees and when we arrived it felt more like woodland than a building project. It was really quiet and felt like a little slice of heaven.” The couple saw the potential immediately. Their challenge was to create a contemporary home that would maximise the views across the surrounding countryside whilst retaining privacy. The result is a beautifully considered property clad in weathered timber, designed to blend naturally into its surroundings. “We didn’t want something that shouted at you as you drove along the lane,” says Carrie. “We wanted it to sit quietly in the landscape. People often tell us they can’t find the house, which means we’ve done our job properly.” Carrie is an experienced interior designer whose career began with the Royal Horticultural Society, where she redesigned exhibition interiors during the 1990s. Later she moved into residential projects and hospitality interiors, including work for the Nevill Arms at Medbourne. Her approach is always guided by the architecture of a building rather than a fixed design style. “I think every property tells you what it needs,” Carrie says. “You have to work with the building and be sympathetic to it.” That philosophy is evident throughout The Barn. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area forms the heart of the home, with extensive glazing framing views across the grounds and opening directly onto the pool terrace. An Alexander Lewis kitchen provides generous storage, a walk-in pantry and premium appliances, while the adjoining living spaces combine practicality with comfort. The layout was carefully planned around family life. Ben, a property developer, and Carrie wanted a home that would work for their three children as they entered their teenage years. “The swimming pool has been key to the enjoyment of this house," Carrie says. “We finished just before Covid and had the most amazing summer here. The children have loved it!” A games room, gym and outdoor entertaining areas have all proved equally popular. A bell tent area beside the stream running through the grounds has hosted countless teenage gatherings, complete with fire pit and outdoor seating. Inside, five en suite bedrooms provide comfortable accommodation, with the principal suite enjoying views across the pool and countryside.
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Clean lines, lots of glazing and natural materials create a really contemporary aesthetic
WELCOME HOME
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Elsewhere there is a separate study enclosed with steel-framed glazing, a boot room, laundry room and extensive storage, all designed to make everyday living effortless. The grounds themselves have matured beautifully over the past few years. Wildlife flourishes among the trees, with muntjac deer regularly appearing and birds making use of the pond and stream. For Carrie and Ben, however, the desire for a new challenge is becoming impossible to ignore, especially for Carrie who has already begun to create moodboards.
The Barn
Belton in Rutland Location: Belton in Rutland, Uppingham 4 miles, Oakham 9 miles, Stamford 16 miles. Rooms: Three reception rooms currently arranged as open plan living/kitchen area, sitting room, games room. Five beds, all en suite. Gym, swimming pool and terraces. Guide Price £2,250,000. Find Out More: Currently on the market with Pelham James, Oakham, call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk.
The whole family say they’ll miss the place enormously and hope the next custodians of the property will love it every bit as much as they have.
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Elegantly blue A curated selection of refined homeware in layered shades of timeless, elegant blue TOP ROW: Indigo Calm - Frette Unito indigo bath sheet with refined luxury texture, £60-£160, www.eu.frette.com. Royal Kitchen Power - Swedish stand mixer delivers powerful baking performance, £695, www.ankarsrum.com. Navy Wool Comfort - Soft merino throw with classic herringbone weave, £140, www.thebritishblanketcompany.com. SECOND ROW: Prussian Blue Purity - Advanced air purification with sculptural cooling design, £899, dyson.co.uk. Oceanic Elegance - Fresh marine notes with neroli and driftwood warmth, £410, eu.baobabcollection.com. Ocean Drift - Wave jacquard cotton sateen bedding set with soft texture and coastal elegance, £69-£495, www.yvesdelorme.com.
THIRD ROW: Azure Elegance - Elegant azure stoneware fish baker for refined oven-to-table serving, £135, www.lecreuset.co.uk. Blue Heritage - Classic bone china with subtle blue detailing, £25-£305, www.wedgwood.com. Blue Marble Grandeur - Striking crystal blue sintered stone dining statement with sculptural modern elegance, £1,499, articointeriors.com. FOURTH ROW: Sculpted Brass Glow - Elegant linen-shaded lamp with warm antique detailing, £2,800, www.laurahammettliving.com. Kitchen Charm - Hand-painted checked tea kettle adding whimsical style to elegant country kitchens, £250, mackenzie-childs.co.uk. Temple of Jasmine Indulgent Indian jasmine in deep floral elegance, £195, www.trudon.co.uk.
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Image Courtesy of James Hare
• Interior Design • Curtains & Blinds • Upholstery • Lighting • Decorative H-Works, 33 St. Mary's Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS 01780 754605 www.hworksdesign.co.uk
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HOMES
Sarah Harding
Interiors Celebrating 25 Years of Design Excellence
For 25 years, Sarah Harding Interiors has been transforming homes across Rutland, London and beyond. Built on the values of creativity, integrity and individuality, the business has grown steadily through personal recommendations and a reputation for delivering beautifully tailored interiors. Based in a town-centre showroom in Uppingham, Sarah leads the consultancy alongside long-term collaborator and interior designer Vivienne, and designer Alice. Their hands-on approach ensures every project is personally managed from the initial consultation through to completion. As Sarah explains, “We don’t consider a project complete until every client is genuinely happy with the result.” Known for her warm, down-to-earth manner and practical expertise, Sarah combines creative vision with a keen understanding of budgets and lifestyles. Whether redesigning a single room or undertaking a whole-house transformation, her goal is always to create spaces that feel both beautiful and comfortable. Clients often find that careful redesign can breathe new life into existing homes, delivering a fresh perspective without the need to move. Every project begins with understanding how clients live and what inspires them. Through detailed consultations and design discussions, Sarah develops schemes that reflect individual tastes while balancing aesthetics and functionality. From colour palettes and fabrics to furniture, lighting, flooring and bespoke joinery, every element is considered in the context of the overall space. The showroom serves as a valuable source of inspiration, offering examples of materials, furnishings and design solutions. It also provides clients with the opportunity to explore ideas and visualise possibilities before decisions are made. Sarah Harding Interiors offers a complete interior design service, including space planning, colour consultation, furniture sourcing, window treatments, upholstery, flooring, lighting and project management. The team works closely with trusted craftspeople and suppliers to ensure every detail is executed to the highest standard. After a quarter of a century in business, Sarah Harding Interiors continues to create timeless, personal interiors that enhance the way people live, combining design expertise with exceptional client care at every stage of the journey.
6 Market Place, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9QH. Call 01572 823389. See www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk. On Instagram search for sarahhardinginteriorsltd.
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HUNTERS INTERIORS
Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you.
The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD 01780 757946 info@huntersinteriors.co.uk www.huntersinteriors.co.uk 85
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MOIR WADE
CREATING STUNNING
KITCHENS After almost two decades, Carla and Nick Chappell decided it was time to take a fresh look at the heart of their home. What began as a modest plan to update their kitchen soon evolved into a much more ambitious project, resulting in a beautifully crafted new space designed around the way they cook, entertain and spend time together as a family. The couple live near Loughborough in a property inspired by the area's agricultural heritage. Built around 18 years ago on the site of an old farm, the house had served them well, and the kitchen in particular had never presented any real problems. Yet, like many homeowners, they reached a point where they began to wonder whether the room could work even better for the way they live today. “We originally thought we'd just give the kitchen a bit of a refresh,” says Carla. “The room was perfectly functional and we'd enjoyed it for many years, but once we started thinking about the possibilities, we realised we had an opportunity to create something really special.” For Carla and Nick, cooking has always been an important part of family life. They favour simple, well-prepared food rather than elaborate restaurant-style dishes, and a traditional Sunday lunch remains one of their favourite meals. The kitchen therefore needed to be practical as well as beautiful, providing plenty of space for preparation, cooking and gathering together.
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The couple turned to Leicester-based bespoke furniture makers Moir Wade, a family business established more than 20 years ago. Working closely with designer Jim Hyde Dryden, alongside company directors Jonathan Wade and Will Moir, they began refining ideas that would ultimately transform the room while retaining its character and connection to the rest of the house. Although the new kitchen occupies broadly the same footprint as its predecessor, careful redesign has transformed the space. The most noticeable change is a much larger central island, which has become both a practical workspace and a natural gathering place for family and friends. “The island seemed to grow as the design developed,” says Carla. “Every time we looked at the plans, we found another reason to make it slightly larger.” The finished scheme balances timeless design with modern convenience. Bespoke cabinetry is paired with elegant marble surfaces featuring subtle grey veining, while a black Aga sits comfortably alongside contemporary appliances. As part of the project, Moir Wade also created a redesigned utility room that accommodates the family's appliances and household essentials more efficiently. From the initial concepts through to manufacture and installation, the entire project was managed by the same team, providing continuity and accountability throughout, which Carla really appreciated. “We spend so much time in here,” she says. “Whether we're cooking, chatting over a coffee or preparing Sunday lunch, the room now works exactly as we’d hoped. It feels like it belongs to the house and to us.”
Find Out More: Moir Wade is based on Nelson Street, Leicester LE7 2JQ. Call 0116 269 5915 or see www.moirwade.co.uk
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Gardening
GARDENING with MARK LANE
Dr Mark Lane, is a multiawardwinning garden designer, horticulturalist and TV gardening presenter (BBC Morning Live, BBC Gardeners’ World, the RHS Flower Shows, Channel 5). Mark is the author of The Thrifty Gardener (Quarto), Royal Gardens of the World (Kyle Books), and the Future of Gardens (Melville), see www.marklanedesigns.com.
Words & Images: Mark Lane.
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ugust is often seen as the height of the gardening year—a time when borders are brimming, vegetables are cropping heavily and the garden feels full of life. Yet, beneath that abundance lies an important truth: August is also a pivotal month of transition. What you do now not only sustains the current display but quietly shapes the success of autumn, winter and even next spring. One of the most immediate tasks in August is managing growth. Many plants are still in full swing, but they can begin to look tired or unruly. Regular deadheading is essential. By removing spent flowers from bedding plants, roses and perennials, you encourage further blooms and prevent plants from diverting energy into seed production. For plants like dahlias and cosmos, this can make the difference between a fading display and weeks of continued colour. At the same time, some perennials will have finished flowering altogether. Rather than leaving them to collapse, cut them back to tidy clumps of foliage. This not only improves the overall appearance of borders but can sometimes stimulate a second flush of growth.
If, however, you like to leave seedheads on for winter interest, then leave some on each plant. Hardy geraniums, catmint and alchemilla are particularly responsive to a mid season haircut. A useful trick is to combine this with a light feed and a thorough watering almost like giving the plant a reset. Watering becomes a more nuanced task in August. It’s not just about frequency, but method. Deep, infrequent watering is far more beneficial than little and often. This encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, making plants more resilient to drought. Early morning or late evening watering reduces evaporation and ensures moisture reaches where it’s needed most. If you haven’t already mulched, it’s still worth doing. A layer of organic matter, such as compost or wellrotted manure, helps retain moisture and improve soil structure over time. Lawns can present a mixed picture in August. After the stress of summer heat, they may look patchy or dry. Resist the temptation to overwater established lawns; instead, raise the mowing height slightly to reduce stress and allow the grass to recover naturally. If rain returns, growth will pick up again. This is also a good time to plan ahead for lawn renovation in early autumn— note areas that need reseeding or levelling so you’re ready to act when conditions are ideal.
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Gardening In the kitchen or productive garden, August is both rewarding and demanding. Harvesting is at its peak, and regular picking is crucial. Courgettes, beans, tomatoes and cucumbers should be harvested frequently to keep plants productive. In my own garden, I’ve been picking daily to fill our stomachs and to keep the plants producing. Leaving produce to overmature can slow down further cropping. While harvesting dominates, sowing still has a role to play. Fastgrowing crops such as salads, radishes, and spinach can be sown for lateseason harvests. It’s also the perfect time to sow biennials like foxgloves and wallflowers for next year’s display. These plants will establish now, overwinter quietly, and burst into life in spring. If space is limited, consider using modules or seed trays to raise young plants before transplanting them later. Greenhouse care is another key focus. Ventilation is critical during warm days to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for issues such as whitefly, red spider mite, and mildew, which thrive in warm, dry conditions. Damping down the greenhouse floor can help increase humidity and deter certain pests. August is also a prime time for propagation. Taking cuttings is one of the most satisfying and costeffective ways to expand your garden. Semiripe cuttings—taken from this season’s partially matured growth—are ideal
now. Plants like lavender, rosemary, fuchsia, and penstemon respond particularly well. Use a sharp, clean knife or secateurs, remove lower leaves, and insert the cuttings into a freedraining compost mix. Keep them in a sheltered, lightly shaded spot and maintain moisture. Another often overlooked task is seed collecting. As flowers fade and seed heads form, you have an opportunity to gather seeds for next year. Choose healthy, vigorous plants and allow seeds to ripen fully before collecting. Store them in paper envelopes in a cool, dry place. Not only does this save money, but it also allows you to select plants that perform well in your specific garden conditions. Wildlifefriendly gardening remains important at this time of year. Water sources are vital during dry spells, so keep birdbaths topped up and consider adding shallow dishes for insects. Resist the urge to tidy everything; seed heads and slightly untidy corners provide valuable food and habitat. Finally, August is a moment to pause and observe. Take note of what has worked well and what hasn’t. Which plants thrived in the heat? Which struggled? This kind of quiet reflection is one of the most valuable gardening tools you have. It informs future decisions and helps you create a garden that is not only beautiful but resilient and in tune with its environment. Watch Mark on BBC One’s Morning Live, as he gets the nation growing with Grow Along UK.
AUGUST IN THE GARDEN Deadhead roses, dahlias, cosmos and other summer flowers regularly to prolong displays well into autumn.
Prune wisteria by shortening this year’s long whippy shoots to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Water containers, hanging baskets and newly planted shrubs thoroughly during dry spells, preferably in the evening.
Feed dahlias and other latesummer performers with a highpotash fertiliser to maximise blooms.
Harvest tomatoes, courgettes, beans, cucumbers and sweetcorn frequently to encourage continued cropping. Trim lavender once flowering has finished, removing spent blooms but avoiding cuts into old woody growth. Collect seeds from favourite annuals and perennials on dry days for sowing next spring.
Mow lawns regularly, raising cutting heights slightly if conditions become hot and dry. Net ponds if nearby trees begin shedding early leaves, preventing debris from accumulating. Order springflowering bulbs now and prepare planting areas ready for September and October.
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Luxury Homes
Hazelgrove Stamford Exceptional detached home, fully reconfigured and extended for modern family life, with every bedroom benefitting from its own en-suite. Offers over £2,000,000 Eastaway Property 63 Scotgate, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2YB. Call 01780 672030 or see www.eastaway.co.uk
Ketton Fields Ketton Set amidst over nine acres of beautifully composed grounds, Ketton Fields is a home of rare calm and quiet distinction, where Victorian character has been artfully reimagined for modern country living. Guide price £4,800,000 Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk 97
LUXURY HOMES
Tinwell Road
The Granary
Stamford
Great Casterton
With storybook stature, wrought iron railings offer a vintage frame for this soothingly symmetrical home as it rises up from its Stamford roadside setting.
The Granary is an exceptional family home, beautifully converted and thoughtfully refurbished to offer versatile accommodation arranged over three floors, complemented by a self-contained one-bedroom annexe.
Guide Price £1,750,000
Guide price £1,250,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
King West 13 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Chestnut Farm
Barn Hill
Braunston In Rutland
Stamford
Discretely located yet in a prime position within the sought-after village of Braunston in Rutland, Chestnut Farm is a charming, late 17th century period property, constructed of ironstone.
A distinguished Grade II listed Georgian townhouse, with private courtyard garden, on one of Stamford’s most iconic and celebrated Georgian streets.
Guide Price £3,500,000
Guide price £1,250,000
King West 13 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com
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LUXURY HOMES
Owl Barn
Chater Valley Farm
Morcott
Pilton
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Morcott, Owl Barn, Church Lane is an exceptional home blending character with contemporary living. Beautifully renovated to a high standard.
Chater Valley Farm is a deceptively spacious house centrally positioned in an elevated site within almost 40 acres of grass and woodland, through which it is approached.
£965,000
Guide price £1,950,000
Hurfords 38 St. Marys Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS. Call 01780 752136 or see www.hurfords.co.uk
Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com
Ketton House
The Black House
Aldgate
Stamford
This distinguished country residence is situated in a popular Rutland village and set in approximately 4.25 acres of gardens. The property enjoys a private approach through open parkland.
A striking, design-led home set over three meticulously planned floors, The Black House, in the heart of Stamford, is a modern sanctuary offering exceptional space, sleek architecture and flexible living.
Guide Price £3,500,000
Guide price £1,175,000
Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk 99
LUXURY HOMES
The Old House
Orchard House
Caldecott
First Drift
The house dates from 1789 and is Grade II listed. It is constructed of mellow stone elevations under a thatch and slate roof, is arranged over two storeys and offers extensive well-proportioned accommodation.
Nestled in one of Stamford’s most sought-after addresses, this spacious four-bedroom detached family home presents an exciting opportunity for renovation or redevelopment (STPP).
Guide Price £1,275,000
£1,500,000
King West 13 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk
Main Street
The Stone House
Great Casterton
Caldecott
Nestled in the sought-after village, this beautiful 5-bedroom detached family home is a sanctuary unto itself. As you step inside, you are greeted by character features that add charm and elegance to each room.
The Stone House sits opposite the village green within the popular Rutland village of Caldecott. The house offers extensive accommodation and includes an indoor swimming pool and spa complex.
£1,150,000
Guide Price: £1,400,000
Willow & Stone Properties 2 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PB. Call 01780 431218 or see willowandstoneproperties.co.uk
Strutt & Parker South View, Tinwell Road, Stamford PE9 2JL. Call 01780 510039 or see www.struttandparker.com
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Guide Price £550,000
Offers In Excess Of £425,000
Loddington Lane, Belton in Rutland
Vicarage Road, Oakham
A spacious and light-filled three-bedroom bungalow recently renovated and beautifully presented, with front and rear gardens and off-road parking, ideally situated in the popular village of Belton in Rutland.
A spacious and well-presented bungalow situated in a sought-after location in the market town of Oakham, offering generous and versatile accommodation throughout.
Guide Price £400,000
Offers In Excess Of £400,000
Main Street, Teigh
Church Lane, Greetham
A deceptively spacious three-bedroom semi-detached home with a mature west-facing garden and countryside views, set within the quaint village of Teigh.
A charming three-bedroom semi-detached stone-built cottage with off-road parking and a beautifully established west-facing rear garden, along with a dedicated home office, all set within the popular village of Greetham.
LUXURY HOMES
Coppice House
Bridge House Farm
Glaston
Allexton
Tucked away along a sleepy country lane, the stately form of Coppice House rises like a watercolour illustration from a storybook.
Bridge House Farm is a beautifully situated, south-facing five-bedroom farmhouse with a one-bedroom selfcontained annexe and a range of characterful outbuildings. It sits within approximately three acres of grounds.
Guide Price £1,200,000
Offers in excess of £1,000,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com
Rectory Lane
North Street
Edith Weston
Stamford
Nestled within the charming village of Edith Weston, 15 Rectory Lane is a handsome, stone-built home offering a peaceful setting, modern interiors and easy access to the unrivalled natural beauty of Rutland Water.
Situated in the heart of the town centre, this substantial five-bedroom detached home offers over 3,500 square feet of flexible accommodation arranged across three floors.
Guide Price £1,100,000
Guide Price £1,500,000
Fine & Country High Street East Uppingham LE15 9PZ. Call 01780 750 200 or see www.fineandcountry.co.uk
Willow & Stone Properties 2 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PB. Call 01780 431218 or see willowandstoneproperties.co.uk 103
COUNTRY HOMES
LAND SALES
EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY
Char tered Sur veyors & Estate Agents
NEW
UPPINGHAM
Guide Price £1,200,000
Substantial, detached family home offering high quality, flexible accommodation with garage, ample secure parking and private, south-facing garden, tucked away in a quiet residential area within this well-regarded village. Snug, Study, Dining Hall, WC, Garden Room, Sitting Room, superb Kitchen/Diner, Utility; Master Bedroom with Dressing Room and en-suite Bathroom, three further Dbl Bedrooms, one of them with en-suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom; Mezzanine (potential Dbl Bedroom) with en-suite Shower Room and Storage Room. Energy Rating: C.
NEW PRICE
OAKHAM
Guide Price £795,000
Impressive, executive detached residence, set within magnificent south-facing gardens and grounds in one of Oakham’s most sought-after residential locations, just a short stroll from the town centre and its amenities. The property offers beautifully appointed, flexible contemporary family accommodation finished to an exacting standard throughout. 3 Reception Rooms, bespoke SieMatic Kitchen, 4 Bedrooms, 4 Bath/Shower Rooms. Energy Rating: C.
NEW
OAKHAM
No Chain £595,000
An extended four-bedroom detached family home offering spacious, versatile accommodation throughout. Occupying a desirable position in one of Oakham’s most sought-after residential areas, the property benefits from a garage, off-road parking, and an attractive south-facing rear garden. A standout feature is the purpose-built garden studio, ideal for home working, hobbies, or leisure. Conveniently located within walking distance of Oakham town centre, residents enjoy easy access to shops, restaurants, schools, and local amenities. Energy Rating: C.
BRAUNSTON
£575,000
Substantial, detached stone house with ample off-road parking and mature, landscaped gardens situated in one of Rutland's sought-after villages and providing spacious character accommodation with three Reception Rooms, Living Kitchen, three Bedrooms and two Bath/Shower Rooms. The property offers potential for further extension, subject to obtaining the necessary planning consent. Energy Rating: C.
NEW
ASHWELL
Guide Price £550,000
Two residential building plots with full planning permission in a premium Rutland village approximately 2 miles to the west of Oakham. The land extends in total to approx. 0.75 acres and is located directly off the Oakham Road on the edge of the village with rural views to the front and rear. Each property has an internal floor area of approximately 2,680 sq ft (249 sq m) with a detached garage of 420 sq ft (39 sq m).
OAKHAM 104 01572 755555
STAMFORD 01780 766604
NEW
STRETTON
Guide Price £450,000
Elegant south-facing ground-floor apartment within a 17th century Grade II* listed mansion house standing in magnificent grounds surrounded by open countryside. The apartment provides elegant character accommodation with exceptional south-facing views over grounds and countryside. Drawing Room, Dining Hall, Kitchen, Boot Room, Private Entrance Hall, Master Bedroom with en-suite Shower Room, further good-sized Double Bedroom, Bathroom. Energy Rating: F.
M U R R AY.CO.U K
UPPINGHAM 01572 822587
LETTINGS 01572 755513
LUXURY HOMES
The Granary
Cottesmore Grange
Great Casterton
Cottesmore
Situated in the desirable village of Great Casterton, The Granary offers the charm of rural living with the convenience of excellent local amenities and easy access to popular towns.
Defined equally by respect for its heritage and commitment to future living, Cottesmore Grange is a home of quiet grandeur.
Guide Price £1,250,000
Guide price £2,000,000
King West 13 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DE Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
The Old Rectory
High House
Edith Weston
Braunston
Dating back to 1626, The Old Rectory is a Grade II listed charming five-bedroom family home brimming with character, set within a generous half-acre plot in the sought-after Rutland Water village of Edith Weston.
High House stands in the heart of the village, its striking ironstone façade and Collyweston roof making a distinctive impression.
Guide Price £1,250,000
Guide price £1,195,000
James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com
Strutt & Parker 5 South View, Tinwell Road, Stamford PE9 2JL. Call 01780 510039 or see struttandparker.com 105
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Real Weddings
Celebrating love
at
Burghley Matt was born and raised in Stamford, while Lucy grew up in Castle Bytham. After university and time spent building early careers elsewhere, both independently made the decision to return to the area during the pandemic, drawn back by family life and a desire to be closer to home. A brief spell in Newcastle together followed, before they eventually settled back in Stamford in late 2022. The couple’s first meeting goes all the way back to 2012, introduced through Lucy’s older sister Becky, who also happens to be one of Matt’s close
school friends. For Matt’s 18th birthday, Becky presented him with a rather telling gift, a voucher for a date with Lucy. As Lucy puts it, it was exactly what he had asked for. The connection was immediate, although life, distance and circumstance meant their paths drifted apart for a time. It was not until lockdown that they reconnected properly with a socially distanced walk in Burghley Park. From that moment, they have been inseparable. Matt later chose Lucy’s birthday in January to plan a trip to Thailand,
carefully insisting that there would be no engagement involved. However, once they arrived in Bangkok and settled into their hotel overlooking the pool and city lights, he had other plans. After presenting Lucy with an envelope containing a symbolic ‘permission voucher’ from her sister Becky, he got down on one knee. He had already asked both of Lucy’s parents for their blessing. The ring, a platinum band with a single round brilliant diamond, was exactly as Lucy had always dreamed, a perfect balance of classic and contemporary.
IMAGES: SARAH CARTER PHOTOGRAPHY, 07970 327716, WWW.SARAHCARTERPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK.
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When it came to planning the wedding, there was one place that immediately stood out. Burghley House had played a special role in their story, and after a spontaneous enquiry they were delighted to discover it was both available and within budget. Without visiting anywhere else, they secured a late September date and set about shaping their day in a venue that felt entirely right for them. Lucy’s gown, designed by Dando London, was the very first dress she tried on, a timeless and elegant silhouette paired with her sister’s veil, borrowed as her something borrowed, whilst bridesmaids wore sage green. On the morning of the wedding, Rebecca Chantrell worked her magic on makeup, creating natural, glowing looks that still felt like each of them. Hair was styled by Nikki Dawson of Envy, who has known Lucy since childhood, making the morning even more personal. Matt wore a deep green velvet jacket with a black bow tie, while his groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos, all supplied through Vow Bridal. The day itself was brought to life by an exceptional team of suppliers. Mrs Bee’s Flowers created beautiful, personal arrangements, including a bouquet with a bloom named ‘Lucy.’ Catering was provided by Absolute Taste at Burghley, who curated a relaxed yet refined menu experience. Music played a central role throughout, with Apollo Quartet performing during the ceremony and drinks reception, followed by Mastersounds in the evening, including a first dance to Tiny Dancer. Their photographer Sarah Carter and KB Wedding Videography both captured the day perfectly, preserving both the grandeur of Burghley and the intimacy of the moments shared. Matt and Lucy describe the day as one they wish they could relive again and again.
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Wedding Suppliers Venue & Catering: Burghley House & Absolute Taste, with the expertise of Burghley’s Weddings Team, Kara Groves & Katie Hinch, www.burghley.co.uk, events@burghley.co.uk. Photography: Sarah Carter Photography & Josh Hyde, 07970 327716, www.sarahcarterphotography.co.uk. Floristry: Mrs Bee’s Flowers, mrsbees@hotmail.co.uk Makeup: Rebecca Chantrell Makeup, info@makeupbybecca.co.uk Venue Styling: Pretty Quirky Hire, prettyquirkyhire@aol.com Wedding Cake: Purple Pumpkin Cakes, sarah@purplepumpkincakes.co.uk
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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
SCULPT A NEW YOU AT
Call 01572 490950 or see www.calveo.co.uk Rutland Garden Village, Oakham LE15 7QN
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BEAUTY
AUGUST GLOW RESET RESTORING RADIANCE TO SUMMER SKIN
Words: Mandy Bray.
B
y August, the novelty of summer skin can begin to wear a little thin. Prolonged sun exposure, warmer temperatures and time spent outdoors can leave even the most carefully maintained complexion feeling dehydrated, uneven or slightly fatigued. The focus now shifts from preparation to preservation, ensuring skin remains luminous, comfortable and quietly refined. Sun protection remains the cornerstone, but at this stage it is less about application and more about consistency and quality. Broad spectrum SPF should feel like a seamless part of the daily routine, ideally in formulas that combine protection with skincare benefits. Modern textures are far more elegant than they once were, offering lightweight hydration and a soft blurring finish that sits beautifully on mature skin. Pigmentation is often the primary concern as summer progresses. Sun exposure can trigger uneven tone, particularly across the cheeks, forehead and hands. Rather than trying to correct everything at once, a more considered approach works best. Gentle brightening ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide help support a more even complexion over time, restoring clarity without irritation. Hydration remains essential, though it takes on a lighter touch in warmer weather. Skin often benefits from layering lightweight products rather than relying on heavier creams. A well-chosen serum paired with a breathable moisturiser helps maintain suppleness without overwhelming the skin, while facial mists can offer a welcome refresh throughout the day. Attention should also extend beyond the face. The neck, décolletage and hands are particularly vulnerable to sun exposure and can reveal the signs of summer more quickly. Treating these areas with the same care, including SPF and targeted hydration, ensures a more polished, harmonious appearance. For those seeking additional support, gentle, non-invasive treatments can help maintain skin quality. LED therapy and hydrating facials are excellent options, helping to calm, restore and support the skin without disruption. Makeup, too, becomes more refined. Heavy layers feel unnecessary and can detract from the skin’s natural character. A light hand, with strategic coverage and subtle warmth, allows the complexion to remain visible and fresh. Ultimately, August is about maintaining what has already been achieved. With consistent protection, thoughtful hydration and a focus on even tone, skin can carry its summer glow gracefully through the season, looking healthy, balanced and beautifully at ease.
Our Recommended Products (above): 1. Medik8 CTetra Advanced Vitamin C Serum is a brightening vitamin C serum that evens tone, boosts radiance and supports collagen with gentle daily use. Ideal for sunstressed skin. £69, www.medik8.com. 2. SkinCeuticals Intensifier MultiGlycan is a hydrationboosting serum that increases hyaluronic acid levels, improving plumpness and elasticity in dehydrated mature skin. £100, www.skinceuticals.co.uk. 3. Augustinus Bader The Mineral Sunscreen, an SPF 50 product offering high UVA and UVB protection while supporting skin renewal and strengthening the barrier. £140, www.augustinusbader.com. 4. Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum Eye is a multiactive eye treatment targeting fine lines, crepiness and puffiness caused by summer sun fatigue. £65, www.lancome.co.uk. 5. Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel provides pre soaked exfoliating pads that refine texture, brighten tone and reduce dullness without harsh scrubbing. £89, www.drdennisgross.co.uk.
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GROW YOUR BUSINESS You’ll get a better response with Pride Magazines here’s why... Since 2002, our locally crafted magazines have been meticulously curated for discerning readers, gracing the coffee tables of the wealthiest people in the area. Call our friendly team on 01529 469977 www.pridemagazines.co.uk or sales@pridemagazines.co.uk
THE DRIVE. THE GROWTH. ZOIE WILKINSON SALES DIRECTOR
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Portfolio AUGUST 2026
FASHION - LIFESTYLE - BUSINESS
COVERING LINCOLNSHIRE & RUTLAND
MEN’S FASHION
FASHION
COASTAL MENSWEAR MOTORS
PORSCHE
REDISCOVERING MAXI DRESSES FOR AUGUST
CAYENNE TRAVEL
British Yachts
WILDLIFE
Nature in
August
Plus: The Trip of a Lifetime to the Amazon
Hedgerows and Hollows LOUIS VUITTON MÖET HENNESSY
HOW LVMH BECAME SYNONYMOUS WITH LUXURY AND HIGH FASHION
WELCOME TO PORTFOLIO
P RIDE MAGAZINES
Delve into the world of typography and you’ll discover all sorts of tricks and hidden secrets designed to make the written word more legible. The little serifs at the bottom of the type create the illusion of a rule upon which the words rest. Drop caps indicate where to start reading, and justified type gives text columns better separation. Suffice it to say that, as we’ve been refreshing the design of the magazine this month, we’ve incorporated all manner of tricks, some hundreds of years old and originating in the days of movable type, to make our words easier to enjoy. Most of these conventions are redundant in digital media and yet a recent survey suggests that 65% of people prefer to read printed material rather than online content, while 88% say they retain information more effectively from a printed document. This has definitely been a month that has served to remind me just how much I love print, and I hope you derive just as much joy reading a proper, physical magazine... with no pop-ups, no banners, no notifications, and no interruptions or distractions!
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FASHION
Celebrating the
MAXI
M
Words & Product Selection: Mandy Bray
axi skirts continue to dominate summer wardrobes, offering a flowing silhouette that feels both effortless and refined. This season, they arrive in an array of shades, from soft pastels and
earthy neutrals to bold jewel tones that instantly elevate even the simplest outfit. Patterned designs are also having a moment, with floral motifs, abstract prints and subtle stripes bringing personality to everyday dressing.
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Above: Stripe knit slim vest, £125; mini day bag, raffia and leather, £395; high front clog, Italian Leather, £295; Wasteland choker, 24ct goldplated, £950; travel layering shirt, £125; stripe knit maxi skirt, £195. All available from www.meandem.com.
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Abigail poplin maxi skirt, £99, www.boden.com.
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360 maxi linen circle skirt, £499, www.hollandcooper.com.
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>> Below: Sally skirt, £218, thereformation.com. Black embroidered palm tree Euroflax premium linen maxi Skirt, £320, www.farmrio.uk. Blue floral print maxi skirt, £99, www.mintvelvet.com. Right: Pitsy maxi skirt, £310, www.bash.com. Peony skirt in cassia, £228, uk.rails.com. Eliza pleated skirt, in gingham, £159, www.uk.saintandsofia.com.
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Allegra embellished maxi skirt, £1,195, www.aliceandolivia.com.
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POLKA DOTS
£298, reiss.com
Polka dot fashion returns with confidence, appearing across dresses, skirts and blouses in bold and subtle interpretations. Timeless yet contemporary, the pattern adds charm and personality, offering a flattering option that transitions effortlessly from casual daytime looks to polished evening styling. £179 & £149, boden.com
£150, mintvelvet .com £120, hushuk.com
£135, nobodys child.com
£270, gb.max andco.com
SCENT STORIES
From delicate florals to warm amber accords, this season’s new women’s fragrances offer elegant, longlasting scents designed to elevate everyday dressing with effortless sophistication.
£174, bulgari.com
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£165, rixolondon.com
£920, chloe.com
£260, versace.com
£145, miumiu.com
Above £270, uk.parfumsdemarly.com Left £105, armanibeauty.co.uk
£635, ferragamo.com
£910, prada.com
£675, jimmychoo.com.
£145, ralphlauren.co.uk
£855, dehanche.com
WAIST WONDERS
Define silhouettes beautifully with supple leather belts, polished buckles and elegant woven textures, adding effortless structure, refinement and timeless sophistication to dresses, tailoring and denim alike.
£445, emmylondon.com
FIERY STEPS
Stride confidently into late summer with vibrant red footwear, from elegant heels to relaxed loafers, bringing warmth, personality and striking colour to every outfit.
£2,200, ralphlauren.co.uk £850, uk.louisvuitton.com.
£405, aliceandolivia.com
£795, erdem.com
£365, npeal.com
£1,500, gucci.com.
£2,350, celine.com.
Pretty Layers
£229, boden.com £420, lagence.com
Lightweight knitted cardigans in pink and red bring playful warmth, with plain and patterned styles offering effortless layering for relaxed, feminine summer dressing.
£765, etro.com.
£1,730, ysl.com.
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>>
Coastal Menswear: Refined Luxury
STYLE FOR MEN
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BRITISH LABEL SANDBANKS continues to refine modern menswear with a collection offering understated luxury for coastal living and relaxed city dressing. Expect lightweight outerwear, sharp knitwear and elevated everyday staples crafted from premium fabrics in muted seasonal tones. Designed for versatility, each piece transitions effortlessly from weekend escapes to smartcasual occasions. The collection balances function and refinement, reflecting contemporary British design with enduring appeal this season. Opposite, large image: Relaxed fit cotton shorts, £175. Contrast tipped full button interlock polo shirt, £165. Revere collar polo, £125. Left: Sandbanks utility overshirt, £295. Microcable knitted polo shirt, £160. Waffle knitted polo shirt, £160. Sandbanks Vegas sunglasses, £175. This page: Sandbanks logo sliders, £95. Sandbanks badge logo hoodie, £185. Sandbanks mesh back cap, £95. Sandbanks ringer zippocket tshirt, £105. Crochet wave knitted shirt, £175. Sandbanks cotton cargo trouser, £225. www.sandbanksco.com.
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LUXURY
N
LOUIS VUITTON MOËT HENNESSY
ext year will represent 100 years since maison Champagne Mercier gifted something rather special to the happy couple, Francine Durant-Mercier and Paul Chandon, upon their marriage. The Dom Pérignon brand name was transferred to Moët & Chandon to celebrate the couple’s wedding, and 10 years later, in 1936, the company launched the first Dom Pérignon vintage. Today Dom Pérignon and Moët are arguably two of the world’s best-known names, and like many more of the world’s best brands, they’re part of LVMH – Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy – founded in 1987 under the leadership of Chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault. It is easy to assume that people buy a Louis Vuitton handbag, a bottle of Dom Pérignon or a Tiffany diamond simply because they are expensive. In reality, the world’s most successful luxury brands trade on something far more valuable than price: emotion. A luxury brand offers a sense of belonging, aspiration and permanence. The Tiffany blue box presented across a restaurant table, the cork eased from a bottle of Dom Pérignon at a wedding celebration, or a Louis Vuitton holdall accompanying its owner through an airport terminal are all experiences loaded with symbolism. These brands are not merely products; they are markers of achievement, milestones and memories. This understanding of luxury lies at the heart of LVMH’s success. Whilst the group has grown into one of the world’s largest companies, its greatest achievement has been preserving the individual identities of its maisons.
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Dom Pérignon still feels distinct from Krug, Tiffany remains unmistakably Tiffany with their beautiful aqua-coloured boxes, whilst Dior retains the elegance and exclusivity that made it famous nearly 80 years ago. Bernard Arnault recognised early on that luxury cannot simply be manufactured. Through his family holding company, he remains the controlling shareholder in LVMH and has spent decades assembling an unparalleled collection of heritage brands. Under his leadership, the group briefly became Europe’s first company to exceed a market valuation of €500 billion and, at its peak, was regarded as the most valuable company in the world outside the technology sector. Today the company is vast with revenues of €80.8bn, net profits of €10.9bn, 211,000 employees and 6,283 stores in 81 countries. It has 75 maisons (brands) across a diverse range of sectors (wine and spirits, fashion and leather goods, perfumes and cosmetics, watches and jewellery, retail and hospitality). Beyond its luxury brands, the company also acquired Belmond in 2019, renowned for its travel experiences across the globe, not least among which is the London to Venice Simplon-Orient Express, and the opportunity to see Machu Picchu at first light. Via its media subsidiary, the company also owns radio stations like Radio Classique, and newspapers such as economic and political papers L’Agefi and Investir-Le Journal des Finances and France’s daily newspapers, Les Echos and Le Parisien. Wines and spirits The oldest brand in the LVMH portfolio is not, in fact, Dom Pérignon which was named after the 17th century Abbey of Hautvilliers monk who influenced secondary fermentation, but was not established as a brand until the 20th century. In fact, the earliest brand with LVMH provenance is Le Clos des Lambrays, one of the 33 Grand Crus in Burgundy, established in 1365. Château D’Yquem, producing dessert wines and originating in Bordeaux was established in 1593, whilst Champagne houses like Ruinart (the oldest continuous producer, founded in 1729), Moët & Chandon (1765), Veuve Clicquot (1772) and Krug (1843) followed. Some of LVMH’s most famous brands of spirits were also founded early on, from Cognac producer Hennessy (1765) to Glenmorangie (1843). Today, if you raise a glass to celebrate a special occasion, it’s likely that you’ll be enjoying one of the 66.5 million bottles of Champagne produced each year by the company’s Champagne houses; about 22% of the world’s total consumption. Furthermore, LVMH commands around 40-50% of the world’s cognac market, responsible for producing 100 million bottles under its Hennessy maison each year.
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Louis Vuitton was founded in 1854, originally to produce luggage trunks for the luxury voyages of well-heeled travellers Top: Tiffany engagement ring. Above: Bulgari Serpenti, ring £3,630; Viper pavé diamond bracelet £38,200.
LUXURY BRANDS
Fashion and leather goods Louis Vuitton, meanwhile, was founded in 1854 originally to produce luggage trunks that could be stacked on top of one another. Up to that point, trunks for luxury voyages featured rounded tops to ensure water would run off them. These were tricky for those handling well-heeled travellers to stack but apprentice layetier (box and trunk maker) Vuitton set up on his own to pioneer the use of Trianon canvas to make his luggage waterproof. Out of this rather dull and practical feature emerged a brand developed by Louis’ son Georges, who created the LV monogram and established stores in London, New York, Philadelphia, Nice, Lille and eventually the company’s flagship store in the Vuitton Building on the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Gaston-Louis Vuitton was the third generation of the family, embracing the Arts Décoratifs movement and launching the company’s first perfume in 1927, six years after French couturier Coco Chanel released her No. 5 perfume.
Among the other long-established leather goods brands that became part of LVMH’s portfolio of leather good brands are Loewe (1846), Rimowa (1898), and Fendi (1925). Other halo brands for LVMH’s fashion and leather goods division include Christian Dior (established in 1947 and joining LVMH in 2017), Givenchy (established 1952 and joining LVMH in 1988) and Marc Jacobs (established 1984 and joining LVMH in 1997 when the eponymous designer became Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton). Perfumes and cosmetics Founded in 1952 by Count Hubert de Givenchy, the luxury fashion house was quickly made world famous thanks to Audrey Hepburn in the 1954 film Sabrina, and then the film adaptation of Truman Capote’s romantic comedy Breakfast at Tiffany’s in 1961. Givenchy introduced perfume to LVMH’s range of luxury goods, and around the time of its acquisition, Givenchy was also expanding into makeup and skincare.
LUXURY BRANDS
Other perfume houses like Guerlain (established 1828) and Parfums Christian Dior (established 1947) also joined LVMH, whilst more recent members of the LVMH family include France’s Sephora, a perfumery established in 1970 and Benefit Cosmetics, founded in 1976. Among the most recent brands to join LVMH is Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, established in 2017. Jewellery and watches LVMH’s most venerable jewellery brand Tiffany & Co also featured in Hepburn’s 1961 film, and alongside Hublot, Tag Heuer, Bulgari and Chaumet – the latter specialising in tiaras for the exceptionally wealthy – the group has acquired more of the world’s most renowned jewellery and watchmaking brands. LVMH’s most lucrative sectors are its fashion and leather goods brands which contribute around 47% to the company’s
132 Christian Dior within Harrods.
revenues. Watches and jewellery brands contribute 13% and its perfumes and cosmetics brands are responsible for 11% of the company’s revenue and its wines and spirits brands contribute 7% to its sales. Tracing the earliest of its brands back to the 14th century and with 75 maisons in the company’s portfolio, LVMH has a fascinating history, and encompasses some of the world’s best brands, all within a single and rather remarkable family. You have to wonder what Dom Pérignon would make of the firm today, his name gifted to one of the world’s finest wines, but with global revenues measured in the billions, he’d almost certainly have to raise a glass to Arnault’s house of brands. See www.lvmh.com.
TRIP OF A LIFETIME
T THE AMAZON RAINFOREST
here is a particular kind of silence that money simply cannot buy you in our area. You may have the gravel drive, the Aga warming the kitchen, the paddock with the two ungrateful ponies, the view that estate agents describe as far-reaching. You may have all of it. And yet you will still never, on a still evening with the windows open, hear genuine wilderness, the kind that hums, ticks, whoops, croaks and roars all at once, with not a single human-made sound buried anywhere inside it. The distant A-road will always win. The neighbour’s ride-on mower will always have the last word. For real wilderness, the sort that makes the hairs on your arm stand up, you must go a very long way indeed. You must go to the Amazon.
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TRIP OF A LIFETIME
And once you have stood on the deck of a riverboat at first light, watching a pink dolphin roll lazily through water the colour of strong, sugarless tea, while a dawn chorus of ten thousand unseen creatures tunes up around you, you begin to understand why otherwise sensible people sell things, rearrange their lives, and book the trip they have been promising themselves for thirty years. Let us be clear about what this is, because it is not what some imagine. This is not a beach holiday with a token jungle excursion bolted on for the photographs. It is a proper expedition, but one served with excellent wine, crisp linen and a chilled caipirinha at sundown. You sleep in an air-conditioned cabin or a handsome thatched lodge on stilts. You dine remarkably well. And a naturalist guide who has spent the better part of three decades reading this river does all the genuinely difficult work of finding the wildlife, while you simply point, gasp and reach for the binoculars. Your gateway to all of this is Manaus, an improbable, sweltering city of two million souls dropped into the middle of the rainforest, reachable only by air or by river, with no road in from the outside world worth the name. A word of honest warning before we go a step further, because I would far rather you packed your expectations correctly than felt short-changed on arrival. This is a genuinely long way to travel. It is hot. It is humid in a way that fogs your spectacles the moment you step off the aircraft. And the wildlife, maddeningly and wonderfully, does not perform to a timetable. Anyone expecting a polished Attenborough montage to unfold every twenty minutes will spend the first afternoon faintly disappointed. But for the patient traveller the rewards are simply without equal. Unlike almost anywhere else left on this crowded earth, the Amazon cannot be imitated, improved upon or substituted.
Unlike almost anywhere else left on this crowded earth, the Amazon cannot be imitated
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A gliding tree frog (Agalychnis spurrelli), a species in the Hylidae family, found in the rainforests of Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Panama.
The floating five-star. The Iberostar Grand Amazon is a proper cruise ship, airconditioned cabins, gourmet dining, the lot, sailing the Negro and Solimões rivers from Manaus. This is the option for those who want adventure by day and a cocktail bar by night. Rough guide: from around £350-£550 per person per night, all-inclusive of excursions. The expedition riverboat. Smaller, more intimate vessels such as the 18-guest Motor Yacht Tucano venture deep up the Rio Negro, away from everything. Expect four to five daily
Getting there: The journey is part of the story Your gateway is Manaus, an improbable city of two million people in the middle of the rainforest, reachable only by air or river. From the area, the sensible plan is a short hop from our regional airports, or the drive down to London Heathrow, and then one of two routes. The civilised option is British Airways or LATAM direct from Heathrow to São Paulo (around 11½ hours), then a connecting LATAM or Azul flight north to Manaus (a further four hours). The alternative many seasoned travellers prefer is TAP Air Portugal via Lisbon, which breaks the journey pleasantly and often costs less. Either way, you’re looking at the best part of a day’s travel, pack patience and a good book. Rough guide: economy return London– Manaus from around £900-£1,100 per person; premium economy £1,800-£2,400; business class £3,500-£5,000+. When to go matters enormously, and here the advice splits in a way worth understanding. The Amazon has two seasons, and they offer two completely different holidays. The lowwater (dry) season runs roughly June to November, when receding water concentrates fish, pink dolphins and forest animals into smaller areas, better for jungle walks, wildlife spotting and piranha fishing. The high-water season (December to May) floods the forest,
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and terrestrial animals climb into the treetops while you glide by canoe through flooded ‘water labyrinths,’ the more romantic, dreamlike version, and the better one for riverboat cruising. My steer for first-timers: July to September for the classic wildlife trip
Where to stay: from jungle lodge to floating fivestar The Amazon offers three distinct flavours of luxury, and the best trips combine a riverboat with a lodge.
excursions in small groups; guided forest walks, canoe trips, swimming and fishing. This is the connoisseur’s choice. Rough guide: 5-day cruises from around £2,500–£3,500 per person, full board. The rainforest lodge. For solid ground beneath you, the eco-lodges around Manaus and the Anavilhanas archipelago offer thatched comfort on stilts, often a couple of hours upriver. Rough guide: £200-£400 per night for a smart lodge, meals and guided activities included. The insider move is to spend a couple of nights on a riverboat and a couple in a lodge, water and land experiences give you completely different wildlife encounters.
TRIP OF A LIFETIME
DELICACIES The Amazon’s larder is unlike anywhere else, and trying it is half the adventure.
TAMBAQUI A giant river fish, grilled over charcoal, its ribs a local delicacy. The single dish you must not leave without trying.
What you must see and do The Meeting of the Waters. Just outside Manaus, the coffee-black Rio Negro meets the sandy Solimões and the two rivers run side by side, refusing to mix, for several miles, a startling natural line drawn across the water. Unmissable, and usually included in any itinerary. Swimming with pink dolphins. The boto, the Amazon’s pink river dolphin, is the star of the show. Encounters are increasingly managed for the animals’ welfare, so choose a responsible operator; the magic is in seeing them wild from the boat at dawn, not in a feeding circus. Piranha fishing at sunset. More fun than it has any right to be. Fishing for piranhas is an adrenaline favourite, always monitored by experienced guides and run on sustainable principles — and yes, you can eat your catch. PlanetaEXO A night canoe safari. Out on the black water after dark, your guide’s torch catches the orange eye-shine of caiman. The soundscape alone is worth the airfare.
The Teatro Amazonas. Back in Manaus, the pink-domed opera house, built at the height of the rubber boom, its materials shipped from Europe, is a glorious folly in the jungle, and a reminder of how strange and rich this place once was. Rough guide for a half-day Manaus city tour: from around £40-£70 per person.
TUCUMÃ A vivid orange palm fruit, eaten at breakfast in a sandwich called x-caboquinho. An acquired taste, gloriously so.
AÇAÍ Served here not as a trendy smoothie bowl but thick, savoury and unsweetened, often with fish.
Above: The boto, the Amazon’s pink river dolphin. Top: Piranha fishing at sunset, Amazonia, South America.
CUPUAÇU The chocolate cousin, made into the most extraordinary ice cream and juice Order it everywhere.
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LOCAL BUSINESSES
TALLINGTON LAKES A thriving community, exceptional leisure facilities and beautifully appointed luxury lodges combine to offer a unique lifestyle, where every day feels a little more relaxed. Become part of the Tallington Lakes community and enjoy lakeside living at its best in one of our brand new luxury lodges, from some of the UK’s leading lodge manufacturers. The park is centrally located between the towns of Peterborough, Stamford, Bourne and Spalding, meaning you don’t have to travel far in order to get away from it all and discover a little piece of heaven by the water at Tallington Lakes. Whether you want to stay for a short while or for a longer period of time, we will be able to help. The park is set within over 300 acres, with more than 200 acres forming our lakes, meaning the vast majority of our stunning homes enjoy year-round lakeside views. It’s not just the beautiful scenery that makes Tallington Lakes so special, it’s also the fact that you can live here 365 days of the year and, unlike many parks, register your home as your permanent address. Tallington Lakes has become a sought-after destination for a wide variety of desirable luxury lodges from several manufacturers, including Omar and Prestige, to name just two. With prices ranging from £133,000 to almost £400,000, there really is something to suit all tastes and budgets and, ultimately, the sky is the limit when creating your perfect lodge. Choosing your lodge comes down to personal choice and requirements. All of the homes come fully furnished, with integrated white goods in the kitchen. We’ll even build your decking and add a shed to your plot, all as part of the asking price. On moving day, simply unpack your clothes, fill your kitchen cupboards and settle down on your lakeside decking to enjoy the view. It really is as easy as that. Tallington Lakes occupies the site of a former gravel pit which ceased commercial operations in the 1970s before being redeveloped as a leisure destination, with spring fed lakes created on the rewilded site. In 1987, a dry ski slope was added, which now boasts one of the most sophisticated and realistic surfaces in the 140
permanent residence and pay council tax directly to the local authority.
country. Further leisure activities were added, including a climbing tower. At the heart of the leisure facilities, though, are the lakes, with provision for water skiing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, sailing and, more recently, kayaking and paddleboarding. We even offer open water swimming sessions. All of this is made possible by our 200-plus acres of lakes. Today, Tallington Lakes’ leisure activities run alongside The Goodlife Lodge Company, helping those looking for a piece of the good life to settle around the edges of the lakes. The 300-plus acres of Tallington Lakes now house approximately 450 luxury lodges and provide a permanent home for almost 800 people. As permitted by our licence, you can live here 365 days of the year, register your address as your
The vast majority of homes feature openplan living spaces enjoying lakeside views, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, although three-bedroom and, on occasion, four-bedroom homes are also available. For those wishing to make their brand new lodge truly their own, we offer, in conjunction with some of the country’s leading lodge manufacturers, a bespoke design service. Whether you are downsizing, looking for a UK base that allows you to travel, or seeking a relaxing family home, we are certain you will find it at Tallington Lakes. Our professional and dedicated sales team offer a straightforward, no pressure approach to all of our visitors. Our philosophy is simple: people buy a home at Tallington Lakes because it is the right place for them. If you’re curious about what Tallington Lakes has to offer and what lodge life could be like, why not give the team a call on 0800 564 2266 or email info@goodlifelodge.com to book your exclusive viewing tour of the park and its lodges? Our team is available to help with all of your enquiries seven days a week, from 9am until 5pm.
3 The Precincts | Market Deeping Lincolnshire | PE6 8FG | 01778 341827 11 Victor Way | Bourne Lincolnshire | PE10 9PT | 01778 424294 enquiries@crowlandcarpets.co.uk www.crowlandcarpets.co.uk
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AWAY
SAILING
Britain has long enjoyed an enviable maritime reputation, and with a new generation of luxury yacht designers producing modern and exciting boats, from cruisers to superyachts, this month we provide ample proof that Britannia can still rule the waves... Image: Spirit C72 sailing yacht, from £4.5m.
LUXURY YACHTS
LUXURY YACHTS
Spirit’s C72 luxury sailing yacht offers accommodation for eight people, and delivers a cruising speed of 10 knots with beautifully designed interiors for entertaining...
Spirit C72 interior.
B
ritain has long enjoyed an enviable maritime reputation and, from the great age of sail to today’s luxury yacht manufacturers, the country’s shipwrights, designers and engineers have remained among the finest in the world. Modern British yacht builders continue that tradition, creating everything from elegant sailing yachts to high-performance motor cruisers and floating luxury residences capable of crossing oceans in complete comfort. For most people, yacht ownership remains an aspiration rather than an everyday reality. Yet the appeal is easy to understand. Unlike a holiday home, a yacht offers freedom. One week might be spent exploring the quiet anchorages of the Greek islands, the next discovering Norway’s dramatic fjords, the coast of Croatia or the white sands of the Caribbean. The attraction lies not simply in
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luxury, but in the ability to travel under one’s own command and wake each morning somewhere entirely different. Nor is ownership as daunting as many imagine. Smaller yachts can often be berthed in marinas around Britain for annual fees comparable to those associated with a second home, whilst larger vessels are typically managed by specialist companies who arrange maintenance, servicing and winter storage. Many owners captain their own vessels after undertaking recognised qualifications such as the Royal Yachting Association’s training courses, whilst larger yachts may employ professional crew depending on size and intended use. International cruising has become increasingly straightforward. Modern marinas throughout Europe provide customs and immigration facilities where required,
whilst electronic navigation systems have transformed long-distance passage planning. Owners travelling between countries must comply with local regulations and carry appropriate documentation, but for most Mediterranean cruising destinations the practicalities are far less complicated than newcomers often expect. Fairline Yachts Founded in nearby Oundle in 1967, Fairline remains one of Britain’s most respected motor yacht manufacturers. The company’s reputation has been built on combining British craftsmanship with contemporary Mediterranean styling, creating yachts
Princess X95 flybridge.
equally suited to entertaining guests in a marina or exploring coastal waters further afield. The firm’s latest 58 GTO flagship exemplifies the approach, offering spacious accommodation and performance. Spirit Yachts If one yacht builder perfectly embodies the romance of sailing, it is Spirit Yachts. The company’s beautifully crafted timber yachts combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
Fairline 58 GTO.
Many readers will recognise Spirit’s distinctive profile from Casino Royale, in which Daniel Craig’s James Bond sailed aboard a Spirit 54.
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LUXURY YACHTS
Sunseeker’s Superhawk 55 provides two spacious cabins, and via its two Volvo Penta engines, it can muster an impressive 38 knots...
Yet beyond their cinematic appeal, Spirit’s yachts represent a philosophy of slower, more considered travel. The flagship C72 offers accommodation for eight guests and provides a uniquely rewarding experience for owners who value craftsmanship as highly as performance.
Sunseeker Superhawk 55.
Princess Yachts Founded in Plymouth in 1965, Princess Yachts has become synonymous with contemporary luxury on the water. Its X95 Vista demonstrates just how far yacht design has evolved, creating expansive living spaces that feel more akin to a modern waterfront villa than a traditional motor yacht. Sunseeker International Few names carry greater recognition than Sunseeker. The Poole-based company has become one of Britain’s best-known luxury brands, producing yachts that combine dramatic styling with exceptional performance. The Superhawk 55 delivers speeds approaching 40 knots and perfectly captures the company’s reputation for glamour and excitement. Oyster Yachts For those who regard the horizon as an invitation rather than a boundary, Oyster represents the pinnacle of British sailing yacht design. Owners regularly undertake Atlantic crossings, world cruises and extended voyages lasting months rather than weeks. The Oyster 495 provides all the comfort expected of a luxury yacht whilst retaining the capability to venture far beyond the familiar cruising grounds of Europe. Britain’s leading yacht builders continue to demonstrate why the country remains one of the world’s great maritime nations. Their vessels may differ in style and purpose, but all share the same commitment to craftsmanship and adventure. For those fortunate enough to own one, the greatest luxury is not the yacht itself, but the freedom to point the bow towards the horizon and simply set sail.
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Oyster 495.
www.fairline.com, www.spirityachts.com, www.princessyachts.com, www.sunseeker.com, www.oysteryachts.com.
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THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE
PORSCHE
Motors
PORSCHE Electric Cayenne BELOW Fit and finish is class leading, and innovation isn’t far behind... the company is pioneering an inductive electric pad for your garage floor: just park over it for a recharge.
The Cayenne has something in common with Pride Magazine. It was first created in 2002. Back then Pride was a relative unknown among more established magazines and many people questioned whether there was room for another glossy county title. Around the same time, Porsche unveiled a vehicle that seemed equally controversial. A Porsche that was not a sports car. Critics mocked the idea, arguing that a family-sized SUV had no place wearing the famous Stuttgart badge and Pride was facing down some pretty established publications in the magazine market. Things have definitely changed since then. Today Pride Magazine is well established and so too is the Cayenne. In fact, it has become one of the most important cars Porsche has ever built.
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ABOVE Cayenne is lavishly equipped with adaptive cruise, a 360° camera and digital tech galore all presence.
The Cayenne and its smaller sibling, the Macan, each sell around 80,000 examples every year. By comparison, the iconic 911 sells roughly 50,000 units annually, while the Panamera, Taycan and 718 Boxster and Cayman each account for around 20,000 sales. So the Cayenne is a very big deal. The success of the Macan has given Porsche confidence to move the Cayenne further upmarket. Luxury SUVs such as the Range Rover have comfortably moved beyond six-figure price tags, while rivals including the Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga and Land Rover Defender Octa have demonstrated that buyers are willing to spend serious money on performance-focused luxury SUVs. That allows Porsche to make the Cayenne larger, more luxurious and more expensive than ever before.
The move to electrification is another reason why Porsche had to get the new Cayenne exactly right. Previous generations have been offered with petrol and hybrid powertrains, but this is the first Cayenne designed from the outset as a fully electric model. Porsche is even developing a wireless charging
Motors with ROB DAVIS
system that will allow owners simply to drive over a charging pad in their garage to begin charging. Prices begin at £83,200 for the Cayenne Electric, while the Cayenne Electric Coupé starts at £86,200. Personally, I would save the extra money and choose the standard SUV. It is already a handsome and well-proportioned vehicle, offering greater practicality and versatility. That said, both versions are undeniably attractive and both benefit from Porsche’s trademark attention to detail. The standard Cayenne Electric produces up to 442PS with Launch Control and develops 835Nm of torque. It reaches 60mph in 4.8 seconds and continues to a top speed of 143mph. Range is impressive too; up to 399 miles, while rapid charging
“The creation of its smaller sibling, the Macan, has given Porsche license to move the Cayenne further upmarket...” allows the battery to go from ten to eighty per cent in just 16 minutes at suitably powerful charging stations. ABOVE We’d stick with the standard Cayenne rather than the S or Turbo and put some of that cash towards personalisation.
There are three versions available. The standard Electric is joined by the S Electric, which reduces the 0 to 60mph sprint to just 3.8 seconds, and the astonishing Turbo Electric, capable of completing the same benchmark in only 2.5 seconds. Tempting though those figures are, I
would happily stick with the standard model and spend the additional budget on personalising the car. Porsche offers an almost endless selection of colours, trims, wheels and interior finishes. All-wheel drive is standard across the range and practicality has not been forgotten. The Cayenne can tow up to 3,500kg, making it ideal for horseboxes, boats and trailers. Inside, occupants enjoy leather seats, heated front seats, adaptive air suspension, ambient lighting with thirty colour choices, adaptive cruise control, soft-close doors, keyless entry, a power tailgate with gesture control and a ten-speaker audio system. Add impressive refinement and genuine Porsche handling and the result is an electric SUV that proves the future can still be exciting.
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NATURE
A
HARVEST AND HEDGEROWS
ugust is a month of fullness in the countryside. The vivid freshness of early summer begins to soften, replaced by richer colours, ripening fruits and the slower rhythm of late season days. Hedgerows are heavy with berries, meadows shimmer in warm sunlight and waterways reflect long golden evenings. Across the landscape, nature feels generous and mature, carrying the unmistakable sense that summer is gradually preparing to yield to autumn. Meadows & Late Summer Flowers Though many grasslands have now been cut for hay, August meadows still hold remarkable beauty. In unimproved pasture and carefully managed nature reserves, late flowering plants continue to bring colour and movement to the landscape. Knapweed remains one of the defining flowers of the season, its purple heads attracting bees and butterflies, while field scabious, yarrow and wild carrot create delicate texture among the grasses. Along roadside verges and field edges, rosebay willowherb stands tall in vivid pink drifts, often joined by yellow agrimony and patches of ragwort glowing brightly in the sunshine. In wetter meadows, hemp agrimony and purple loosestrife become especially prominent beside ditches and riverbanks.
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There is a softer mood to these landscapes in August. The intense growth of early summer has eased, replaced by seed heads, sun-dried grasses and the quiet rustle of warm breezes passing through the fields. Goldfinches cling delicately to thistle heads, feeding busily on ripening seeds. Hedgerows & Ripening Fruits The hedgerow becomes one of the most rewarding places to explore during August. Across lanes, footpaths and farmland boundaries, shrubs and trees begin producing the fruits that will sustain wildlife into autumn and winter. Blackberries appear first, darkening steadily in the sunshine and drawing walkers, birds and insects alike. Haws, sloes and elderberries begin to swell, while crab apples and rose hips add flashes of colour amongst the greenery. These tangled margins are alive with activity. House sparrows chatter noisily from within dense cover while wrens dart low between branches. Butterflies settle briefly in warm patches of sunlight and orbweaving spiders create intricate webs that glisten in early morning dew. Woodland & Quiet Shade Woodland in August offers coolness and calm during warmer weather. Ferns stand tall along pathways while mosses remain vibrant in shaded corners. Birdsong becomes less constant than earlier in the summer, though woodland still feels alive with movement. Mixed flocks of tits and finches travel through the canopy while great spotted woodpeckers may occasionally be heard tapping deeper within the trees. At dawn and dusk, deer become increasingly visible. Roe deer step cautiously into woodland clearings while muntjac move silently through dense undergrowth. Harvest Fields & Open Countryside Fields that, only a few weeks before, rippled with green crops are transformed into vast expanses of golden stubble as combines move
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steadily across the land, and those freshly harvested fields attract a wealth of wildlife. Wood pigeons gather in large flocks to feed on spilled grain, while gulls often follow farm machinery in search of insects and small creatures disturbed during harvesting. Kestrels and buzzards can frequently be seen scanning open ground from fence posts or circling overhead, taking advantage of the increased hunting opportunities. The wide skies of late summer seem particularly impressive at this time of year. Warm air shimmers above the fields during the day, while evenings often bring spectacular sunsets that bathe the landscape in soft amber and rose-coloured light. As temperatures begin to cool after dusk, bats emerge to feed along field margins and hedgerows, darting silently through the gathering darkness. For walkers, August offers some of the year’s finest countryside views. With crops cut and vegetation beginning to recede, long vistas open across rolling farmland and broad valleys. Wetlands & Waterways August is one of the finest months to experience wetlands and waterways. Reed beds remain busy with hidden birdlife while open water sparkles beneath broad skies and warm afternoon light. Dragonflies are especially impressive at this time of year. Southern hawkers, emperor dragonflies and common darters patrol ponds, canals and slowmoving rivers with astonishing speed and precision. Along quieter stretches of river, kingfishers continue their low, electric flights over the surface while grey herons stand motionless in the shallows. As daylight slowly shortens and harvest begins across surrounding fields, the countryside enters one of its most atmospheric moments of the year, offering warmth, richness and remarkable natural abundance before autumn finally arrives.
ABOVE Common Darter, a Chalkhill Blue butterfly enjoying the knapweed. Hedgerow berries and opposite, a Kingfisher.
Nature
Along quieter stretches of river, kingfishers continue their low flights over the surface of the water...
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FLAT ROOFS? WE’VE GOT THEM COVERED
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Call 07825 381878 or see www.firstrateflatroofing.co.uk No Pressure Selling • Free, No Obligation Quotes • 25 Year Guarantee 158
LOCAL BUSINESSES
PRECISION LANDSCAPES Unlock the Full Potential of Your Garden with a Bespoke Garden Building from Precision Landscapes
A bespoke garden building is one of the most effective ways to transform unused outdoor space into something truly valuable. At Precision Landscapes, we design and build beautifully crafted garden rooms that give you the extra space you need while enhancing the character and functionality of your garden. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a practical workspace, or a stylish extension of your home, our team creates structures and buildings tailored to your lifestyle and vision. Garden buildings have become incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for modern living. Many homeowners choose to create a dedicated home office, giving them a quiet, productive environment away from household distractions.
Others opt for a gym or fitness studio, bringing convenience and privacy to their daily routine.
What makes a Precision Landscapes garden building truly special is the way it maximises every inch of your outdoor area.
For families, a garden room can become a playroom, teen hangout, or homework space, freeing up valuable room inside the home. Creative clients often turn their garden building into an art studio, music room, or craft workshop, enjoying natural light and a calm setting that inspires focus.
Our team works closely with you to design a structure or building that fits seamlessly into your garden layout, complementing existing features while creating new purpose and flow. Whether your space is large, compact, or uniquely shaped, we ensure your building feels integrated, balanced, and beautifully finished.
Outdoor enthusiasts love the idea of a garden bar, outdoor kitchen, or entertaining space, perfect for hosting friends and making the most of long summer evenings. Even practical uses, such as log stores, high-quality sheds, or organised storage rooms can be elevated into something stylish and long lasting.
From concept to completion, Precision Landscapes delivers craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail. The result is a bespoke garden building that not only adds usable space and value to your home but enhances the way you live every day.
Precision Landscapes specialise in 3D garden design, hard landscaping, planting schemes, bespoke garden buildings or structures, and resin-bound driveways. For a free, no-obligation quote and advice, call 01780 721 174 or 07921 572 100, or see www.precision-landscapes.co.uk. 159
ALMANAC JAN
FEB
MAR
Aug Zodiac: Leo until 22nd August, then Virgo, associated with confidence, generosity and a practical appreciation of life’s pleasures. Birthstone: Peridot, symbolising strength, harmony and protection. Notable Dates: 1st August: Yorkshire Day. 12th August: The Glorious Twelfth. 29th31st August: Notting Hill Carnival. 31st August: Summer Bank Holiday. In The Garden: Harvest tomatoes, courgettes and beans, deadhead roses, water regularly and take cuttings for next season. Seasonal Table: Plums, blackberries, runner beans, sweetcorn, tomatoes, mackerel and lamb. On The Farm: Harvest is in full swing, cereals are gathered, haymaking continues and early preparations begin for autumn sowing.
SOUND & VISION ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY
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APR
MAY
Folklore: August has long been associated with harvest, abundance and quiet gratitude. In rural Britain, it marked the culmination of the farming year, when communities gathered to bring in crops and celebrate the fruits of their labour. The festival of Lammas, held on 1st August, was one of the earliest harvest celebrations, when loaves baked from the first wheat were blessed in church.
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
DEC
MOMENTS OF QUIET SIGNIFICANCE
IN OTHER WORDS
“Kindness costs nothing, yet it changes everything we touch in life, often in ways we never fully see or understand at the time.”
August is the month when summer settles into itself. The urgency of early growth has passed, replaced by a slower, more generous rhythm. Gardens are at their fullest, borders spilling over with colour, while orchards and hedgerows begin to offer their quiet bounty. It is a time for gathering rather than planting, for enjoying rather than anticipating.
Sir David Attenborough, British broadcaster and natural historian
The Glorious Twelfth, on 12th August, traditionally signals the start of the grouse shooting season, a date still observed across country estates and moorlands.
There is something deeply reassuring about August’s abundance. Long lunches stretch into the afternoon, evenings linger with golden light and the countryside hums with activity. Farmers work steadily through the harvest, while at home, bowls of fresh produce fill kitchen tables.
Meanwhile, August bank holidays have become a more modern tradition, offering a final opportunity for summer gatherings before the rhythm of autumn returns. Superstition also plays its part. It was once believed that cutting hair in August would bring good luck, while thunderstorms were said to foretell a bountiful harvest. Though such beliefs have softened over time, August retains its sense of richness, both in the landscape and in tradition.
NOV
WEATHER WATCH August sees daytime highs of 20 to 22°C and overnight lows of 12 to 14°C. Rainfall averages 55mm. Sunrise is around 5.45am, sunset near 8.30pm, with around 14 hours 45 minutes of daylight.
It is also a moment of pause. Before the shift into autumn, August offers a chance to take stock, to enjoy the rewards of the season and to savour simple pleasures. Whether in the garden, at the coast or gathered with friends, it remains one of the most quietly satisfying months of the year.
IN THE CHARTS
ON YOUR TV
AT THE CINEMA
Released on 23rd August 1963, She Loves You ignited Beatlemania; August 1975 saw Queen complete Bohemian Rhapsody at Rockfield Studios; Definitely Maybe arrived on 29th August 1994, launching Oasis.
British TV debuts in August include Channel 4’s political satire, Drop the Dead Donkey and The Word in 1990, while The Great British Bake Off first aired on BBC Two in August 2010.
August cinema highlights include The Great Escape in 1963, plus Spielberg’s E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial (1982), and Mamma Mia! (2008), each becoming enduring favourites with British audiences.
TRIVIA, FOLKLORE AND HISTORY FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN AUGUST WHAT’S COMING UP
HATCHED, MATCHED & DISPATCHED Hatched: Princess Anne was born on 15th August 1950, becoming the second child and only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Matched: Madonna married film director Guy Ritchie on 22nd August 2000, one of the most talkedabout celebrity weddings of the new millennium. Dispatched: Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the Moon, died on 25th August 2012, aged 82, prompting tributes worldwide.
BBC PROMS SEASON
ON THIS DAY AUGUST IN HISTORY 4th August 1914 Britain enters the First World War following Germany’s invasion of Belgium, marking the beginning of a conflict that would reshape Europe and have lasting social and political consequences at home.
6th August 1991 The first browser for the internet becomes publicly available, transforming communication, commerce and daily life, and marking the beginning of the digital age as we know it today. Tim BernersLee (below) and his team created the web as we know it, with the browser WorldWideWeb, later renamed Nexus and discontinued in 1994.
15th August 1947 India gains independence from British rule after decades of campaigning, marking a significant moment in global history and the reshaping of Britain’s relationship with the Commonwealth.
31st August 1997
BLACKBERRIES Each August, the Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak, creating one of the year’s most spectacular celestial displays. Caused by Earth passing through debris left by Comet SwiftTuttle, the shower can produce dozens of shooting stars each hour under clear skies. Visible across Britain, the Perseids have inspired centuries of folklore, with many believing the streaks of light were omens, messages from the heavens or symbols of good fortune.
News breaks of the tragic death in Paris of Diana, Princess of Wales, prompting an outpouring of public grief across Britain and around the world, and marking a profound cultural moment
August is synonymous with the BBC Proms, a cornerstone of the British cultural calendar. Held primarily at the Royal Albert Hall, the season brings together worldclass orchestras, conductors and soloists for a celebration of classical music. From much loved favourites to more adventurous programming, the Proms offer something for both seasoned enthusiasts and those newly curious. The atmosphere is uniquely British, balancing tradition with accessibility, whether seated in the stalls or standing in the arena. For many, it is an annual ritual, culminating in the much anticipated Last Night of the Proms, a joyful and patriotic close to the season.
EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE
August belongs, in part, to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Streets, theatres and popup venues across the city come alive with performances spanning comedy, theatre, music and spoken word. For visitors, it offers a unique blend of established talent and
emerging voices, all set against the elegant backdrop of Scotland’s capital. The atmosphere is both lively and sophisticated, with something to suit every taste. Beyond the performances, the Fringe has become a social occasion, with long lunches, gallery visits and late evening discussions forming part of the experience.
THE GLORIOUS TWELFTH The 12th August marks the traditional start of the grouse shooting season, known as The Glorious Twelfth. Rooted in country life, it signals a continuation of rural traditions that have been observed for generations. On estates across Britain, it is both a sporting and social occasion, often followed by gatherings that celebrate seasonal produce and hospitality. While its relevance has evolved, it remains an enduring feature of the countryside calendar, closely tied to land management and heritage.
SUMMER BANK HOLIDAY The August Bank Holiday offers a final pause before autumn begins. For many, it is a time for relaxed entertaining, short breaks and enjoying the last of the long evenings. Coastal escapes, garden parties and countryside walks are all part of the appeal. There is a sense of making the most of summer’s closing chapter, with a quieter, more reflective atmosphere than earlier in the season.
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The last word ROB DAVIS
P RIDE MAGAZINES
I
have a favourite gadget in the kitchen, and
The great thing about ice cream is that once you’ve
frankly it’s also a favourite of many people
mastered a basic vanilla, all you have to do is mix
around me during the summer months.
in, say, some melted chocolate, mint, fresh British
The gizmo in question is an ice cream maker and
strawberries, raspberries, coffee or anything else
it is, in fact, the third such device I have owned,
that appeals, and you’ve an authentic treat, the
having worn the other two out. This one was a
ingredients of which you can identify and vouch for.
Christmas gift from the present Mrs Davis and
There is, however, a problem. I favour vanilla. Just
she’s clearly a more canny consumer than I gave
vanilla, but really good vanilla. More than once
her credit for, after all, there’s no better time to buy
that has led to accusations that I’m boring, but I’m
an ice cream maker or a convertible sports car than in the dead of winter, even if I did have to wait months before I really got some good use out of it. For a few years now I’ve been making my own ice
not alone. According to one poll of 2,000 British
SCOOP
respondents who were each asked to name their favourite ice cream flavours. 28% favour vanilla, with mint choc chip coming a close second with
cream and without wishing to sound conceited (heaven forfend) it’s
22% of the votes, and chocolate taking third place at 19%, followed by
the best ice cream in the world. Even so-called premium brands, the
salted caramel. Older respondents named rum and raisin or raspberry
likes of Häagen-Dazs or Ben & Jerry’s, can’t hold a scoop to my
ripple as favourites; younger respondents embrace contemporary
homemade ice cream, which I flavour by scraping vanilla seeds right
flavours like choc chip cookie dough, cookies and cream or bubblegum.
out of their pod and infusing them in warm milk for half an hour.
In the emergent sphere of ice cream psychoanalysis, Greg Tucker has
There are no questionable ingredients like guar gum or palm oil
spent two decades as a flavour consultant for leading ice cream
and no carrageenan (‘an indigestible polysaccharide carbohydrate
brands in the UK, France, the US and across Europe. His conclusion?
extracted from red edible seaweeds, widely used in the food industry
If you favour vanilla ice cream, you’re dull, cautious, looking
as a stabilising, thickening
for reassurance or security,
and gelling agent,’ reckons
you’re the nervy or anxious type. Guilty as charged.
Google... bon appétit). The machine in question is a Ninja Creami, and in fairness, it doesn’t do much but chop up and smooth the ice cream once it’s been made and frozen overnight. Making the actual mix is simple, too, and though there are myriad recipes
For a few years now I’ve been making my own ice cream and without wishing to sound conceited... it’s the best ice cream in the world!
Prefer mint choc-chip? You’re energetic, but cautious and perhaps a bit stubborn too. Chocolate? Indulgent, daring, seeking escapism. Salted caramel? You’re grown up, sophisticated. Strawberry? Child-like and happy. Coffee? Worldly wise; a perfectionist.
and variations of ice cream,
Take that with a pinch of
experience tells me that the
salted caramel by all means.
best way to make it is with
Personally, I think a love of
milk infused with vanilla and left to cool, combined with caster sugar
ice cream (any flavour) is a good personality trait, as long as it’s
and egg yolk, warmed, thickened and left to cool so you can whisk in
decent quality. No cheap and nasty industrial stuff, just recognisable
double cream. After freezing and giving it a blast in the Ninja, you’re
ingredients. If you’ve yet to discover the unmitigated joy of making
left with ice cream that’s nicer in flavour and more authentic, made
your own ice cream, do pick up one of these magnificent machines.
with recognisable ingredients and no ultra-processed nasties.
I promise once you’ve made your own, you’ll never go back.
Here at Pride, we love to read your feedback... email us on any subject at robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.
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