July is the month when English gardens reward us most generously. And not just with colour and texture, either, but with optimism; a joyful expression of summer. One of the great pleasures of living in Rutland and Stamford is that gardens here are not hidden away behind gates and hedges, but woven into the character of daily life.
Gardens also remind us that labour is pointless unless leisure follows... what’s the point of effort without reward? As I look out over a garden that I’m happy to consider neat and welltended, albeit one that requires continuous effort, I’m reminded of the importance of enjoying the space, as well as working in it. That’s one of the reasons I think gardening is so satisfying.
Another is that gardens represent optimism so perfectly. Every planted seed, every carefully pruned rose and every newly designed border is an act of faith in the future. Gardens remind us to slow down too, encouraging us to notice the scent of roses after rain, the sound of bees in lavender, or the simple pleasure of dining outdoors on a warm July evening with family and friends.
Just before we leave you to enjoy this edition, you’ll notice one improvement this month as we include a couple of features from slightly further afield than our own county borders. It was a suggestion made by a number of readers, that we’ve been considering following our recent reader survey. As well as keeping readers informed as to what’s going on in the county, we’re now including events like What’s On listings from London and some nationally significant events like Henley Royal Regatta and this year’s RHS shows. Doing so will, we anticipate, add an extra dimension to the magazine, especially as the capital is less than an hour away by train, and offers much in the way of heritage and entertainment, all year round.
Our best wishes for a wonderful month!
Julian Wilkinson CEO & Founder, Pride Magazines
JULY 2026
LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS
10 LOCAL NEWS Our round-up of ‘good news’ stories in Rutland & Stamford.
14RUTLAND’S NEW HIGH SHERIFF
Susannah Fish takes on the historic role to support local communities.
33 THE GUIDE The best live events, theatre and other events taking place across Rutland & Stamford this month.
50OAR INSPIRING Royal Henley 2026.
98 WEDDINGS Sophia & Stephen’s recent wedding in the heart of Stamford.
108 BACK TO SCHOOL Oakham School’s new headteacher, Lucy Pearson.
FOOD & DRINK
20 DINING OUT Exceptional dining out in Rutland and Stamford with a choice of superlative starters and first class first courses.
25LOCAL RESTAURANT LISTINGS
Rutland & Stamford’s comprehensive guide to the best local restaurants, cafés, bistros, food and drink producers.
28 RECIPE Delicious, convenient and healthy, chef Emily English presents recipes from her latest book. 31 WINE Our July recommendations plus a catch-up with Zoe and Tim Beaver at The Rutland Vineyard.
HOMES & GARDENS
58 WELCOME HOME Nicky Brake shows us around her family’s Grade II listed converted farmhouse, in Braunston.
68HOMES Inspiration to transform your outdoor spaces into a secret garden.
77 IN FULL BLOOM Enjoy RHS seasonal highlights all summer long from Chelsea to Sandringham.
84GARDENING Advice from author and garden designer Mark Lane.
90 LUXURY HOMES Executive and rural homes across Rutland & Stamford.
PORTFOLIO
118 LUXURY BRANDS Fernando Alonso on a brand new partnership between Aston Martin and Breitling.
126 FASHION Style for summer holidays from kaftans to cover-ups.
134STYLE FOR MEN Orlebar Brown.
138TRAVEL Luxury in Lake Como.
146MOTORS Toyota’s Land Cruiser.
152SPORT Wimbledon & The Open.
156NATURE Heroes of hedgerows.
160ALMANAC Trivia and miscellany.
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Local News
Wishing Jane a happy retirement
The Revd Jane Baxter has retired following more than two decades of dedicated service to Rutland’s churches and communities. A special thanksgiving service was held to celebrate her ministry as rector of Stoke Dry, Seaton Lyddington, Bisbrooke,Thorpe by Water, Caldecott and Glaston, and as well as her role as Rutland’s Rural Dean. Widely respected across the county, Revd Baxter has been praised for her compassion, leadership and commitment to parish life. Away from the church, she is known as a music lover, proud grandmother and devoted owner of her muchloved cat, Lionel.
Global birdfair returns to Rutland
Global Birdfair returns to Rutland’s Lyndon Top from 11th-13th July. The world’s leading birdwatching and conservation event, the fair will feature expert speakers, wildlife cruises, photography workshops and exhibitors, celebrating nature, travel and environmental conservation in the heart of Rutland.
A shot in the arm for Rutland’s Memorial hospital
Rutland County Council has approved a £1.6million investment to help expand services at Rutland Memorial Hospital. Combined with £650,000 from the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board, the project represents a total £2.25million investment. Funding will support refurbishment of the Minor Illness and Injury Service and upgrade the hospital’s X-ray facilities with new equipment. Once completed, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust will provide a five-day diagnostic imaging service, reducing the need for residents to travel outside the county.
Martin is Mayor for 2026/2027
Martin Brookes has been elected Mayor of Oakham for 2026/27 following a vote by fellow members of Oakham Town Council. Councillor Brookes, who joined the council in 2024, succeeds outgoing mayor Chris Nix.
SOS: Save Our Sea Dragon, say Rutlanders
Growing campaign to rethink plans to exclude the county’s ‘sea dragon’ fossil from the redeveloped Rutland County Museum
Campaigners are preparing to fight plans which could see Rutland’s remarkable prehistoric ‘sea dragon’ fossil excluded from the redeveloped Rutland County Museum.
The 10-metre-long ichthyosaur skeleton, discovered at Rutland Water in 2021, was originally expected to become the centrepiece of the museum’s major refurbishment project.
Backed by government levellingup funding, the scheme aimed to create new galleries and exhibition spaces celebrating the county’s heritage.
However, Rutland County Council has now confirmed the
fossil is unlikely to be displayed there after concerns emerged over the additional cost of conserving and housing the specimen. The council says rising construction pressures mean the wider museum redevelopment would require an extra £1million beyond existing funding commitments.
The fossil, currently owned by Anglian Water, has attracted international attention since its discovery and is regarded as one of the most significant Jurassic marine reptile finds in the UK.
Friends of Rutland County Museum has condemned the decision and is preparing to launch a ‘Save the Sea Dragon’
petition in a bid to reverse the move. Chairman Lawrence Fenelon described public reaction as overwhelmingly negative, saying many residents viewed the decision as “utterly stupid.”
He warned the loss of the fossil would be a missed opportunity both culturally and economically for the county. The council still intends to proceed with museum
improvements, with work expected to begin in July, although revised plans will no longer include a permanent display for the ichthyosaur.
Supporters argue the fossil could become a landmark attraction for Rutland, drawing visitors from across the country and securing the museum’s future for generations to come.
Best Dressed Windows
After its successful launch last year, with 27 local businesses taking part, Burghley Horse Trials is once again inviting Stamford shops and businesses to create a themed window display for the Best Dressed Window title in the lead up to the legendary Defender Burghley Horse Trials, from 3rd-6th September.
The shop or business with the Best Dressed Window will win £500 cash prize with a range of further prizes for runners up. Formal in-person judging takes place on 19th August. There’s a new prize this year too, for the best window as voted for by the general public online.
See www.burghley-horse.co.uk.
Stamford singer Sophie Hurst’s King’s Trust solo
Gareth Southgate and also, the beauty entrepreneur Charlotte Tilbury, with whom she is pictured below.
Sophie said the occasion was “an incredible experience and an honour” after the charity helped her rebuild her confidence following the pandemic.
Stamford
vocalist Sophie Hurst swapped Stamford High Street for Buckingham Palace last month after performing at a special garden party celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust.
The Empingham singer, who has become a young ambassador for the charity, performed a 10-minute set in the palace grounds alongside a host of well-known guests including singer Sam Ryder, former England manager
A former chorister at Ripon Cathedral, Sophie later studied for a degree in vocal performance at the University of Chichester. After Covid interrupted her career, she turned to The King’s Trust in 2022 for support, receiving mentoring and funding to help relaunch her music business, Sophie’s Voice. Today, Sophie performs as a classical crossover singer inspired by Celtic and choral music, while also teaching singing and performing at weddings and events across the region.
Meet Rutland’s new High Sheriff
From Chief Constable to Rutland’s new High Sheriff, Susannah Fish brings a lifetime of public service to one of the country’s oldest offices, using her year in post to champion justice, community and the quiet work that makes a real difference
Words: Rob Davis.
There’s a new sheriff in town (county, actually), and Susannah Fish is no stranger to promoting happy, safe communities. After more than three decades spent at the sharp end of policing, culminating in her role as Chief Constable of Nottinghamshire Police, she now steps into one of the oldest offices in the country.
The Office of High Sheriff dates back over a thousand years, to a time when the ‘Shire Reeve’ acted as the Crown’s principal agent within each county. Today, the role is no longer executive, but its purpose remains rooted in justice, community and public service. The modern High Sheriff supports the judiciary, attends civic functions, and works closely with organisations across the county, from the police and probation services to voluntary groups and charities.
Susannah’s professional journey began over 30 years ago in Nottinghamshire Police, where she would go on to build a distinguished career. Along the way she served in the West Midlands, led national work on gun and knife crime from the Home Office, and became a leading voice in tackling serious violence.
“I was a police officer for over 31 years,” she says, reflecting on a career that took her from frontline policing to national leadership. She recalls the early 2000s in Nottinghamshire, when gun crime reached troubling levels and demanded decisive action, describing it as “a horrific time,” but one that shaped her operational outlook and enabled her to leave the legacy of a better, safer area.
Yet it is not only her work on crime that has defined her legacy. In later years, Susannah became known for challenging accepted norms within policing and the workplace more broadly. She introduced the first menopause policy within a UK police force, recognising an issue that had long been overlooked despite affecting a significant proportion of the workforce.
“It was just about how we understood menopause as a natural part of life that every woman goes through,” she explains, noting that at the time such thinking was far from
widely accepted. Similarly, her decision to recognise misogyny as a hate crime marked a turning point in how policing could respond to the lived experiences of women.
That same sense of purpose underpins her decision to accept the role of High Sheriff. While the position is ceremonial and apolitical, it offers a platform to continue making a difference, albeit in a different way.
“It’s about continuing to make a difference,” she says, “and shining a light on good stuff in communities where people are working really hard.”
For Susannah, it is this broader community engagement that is most compelling. Having lived in Rutland for seventeen years, she speaks with genuine affection for the county. What began as a temporary move quickly became permanent.
“Those in the voluntary sector don’t think what they’re doing is important, but actually what they’re doing is special, and I want to highlight the work that’s going on unrecognised throughout the county...”
“We came for 12 months… and we haven’t moved since. No intention of it. It’s just such a wonderful place to be,” she says.
Drawn by a strong sense of community, a rich heritage and an optimism that is palpable across its towns and villages, Rutland has clearly become home and its scale, she says, is part of its strength. With a population of just over 40,000, connections are more immediate and visible.
“I think there’s a real strong sense of community.” During the pandemic, this was particularly evident, as communities came together to support those who were vulnerable or isolated.
For Susannah, it was a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection, something that extends beyond digital
communication into genuine relationships and mutual care. This emphasis on community will be central to her year in office.
While she will fulfil the traditional duties associated with the role, including supporting the courts and engaging with the criminal justice system, Susannah is equally keen to spend time with the voluntary sector.
From small village groups to established charities, these organisations form the backbone of community life, often operating quietly and without recognition.
One of her priorities is simply to acknowledge that contribution. “They don’t think what they’re doing is special, but actually what they’re doing is special,” she says of the volunteers she has already met in her first weeks in office.
Her chosen charity for the year, Warning Zone, reflects her longstanding interest in prevention and education. The organisation provides immersive safety education for young people, addressing everything from fire and water safety to online risks, ensuring that children are equipped with the knowledge they need to navigate an increasingly complex world.
Alongside this, the High Sheriff’s charitable fund will continue to provide small grants to local groups, enabling grassroots initiatives to flourish. The grants are another example of how the role can have a tangible impact at a local level.
Susannah is clear that her focus will be inclusive. From schools to care homes, from young people to older residents, she intends to engage with all parts of the community.
“We’ve only got 41,000 people… it made sense to focus on the whole of Rutland,” she says. Rutland may be small, but it is diverse in its needs and experiences, and she sees value in understanding and supporting that full spectrum.
To a role steeped in history, Susanna brings a contemporary perspective shaped by experience, empathy and a clear commitment to making a difference.
See www.rutlandhighsheriff.com.
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FOOD & DRINK
Image: Hambleton Hall
First Courses
A roundup of the finest first courses from Rutland & Stamford’s best restaurants
Top Left: Barbecue monkfish tail with pickled fennel, at The Red Lion, West Deeping, 07421 977661, www.theredlionwestdeeping.co.uk.
Top Right: Beef carpaccio with Baron Bigod, figs and rocket at The William Cecil, Stamford, 01780 750085, www.millysbistro.co.uk.
Above Left: Whitelake Goat’s Curd with beetroot, apple & rocket at The Six Bells, Witham on the Hill, 01778 590360, www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.
Above Right: Crab and tuna loin with soy, lime, mango, cucumber gel, at The George of Stamford, 01780 750750. www.georgehotelofstamford.com.
NB: Featured dishes subject to availability and change.
Top Left: Beef carpaccio with Parmesan and black pepper mayo at No.23 01572 303023, www.23uppingham.co.uk.
Top Right: Ham hock Scotch egg with pea velouté, at The White Horse, Baston, 01778 560923 or see www.thewhitehorsebaston.co.uk.
Above Left: Ham hock raviolo, apple & lovage velouté at The Olive Branch, Clipsham, 01780 410 355, www.theolivebranchpub.com.
Above Right:Ham hock terrine, with fig relish, artichoke salad and piccalilli at The White Horse, Ufford, 01780 740250, whitehartufford.co.uk.
Top Left: Beetrootcured salmon with horseradish ice cream at The Lake Isle, Uppingham, 01572 822951, www.lakeisle.co.uk.
Top Right: Fior de latte stuffed mushroom arancini, confit garlic and thyme at Cloisters Stamford, 01780 755162, www.cloistersstamford.co.uk.
Above Left: Cured chalk stream trout at Blossoms, Rutland Hall Hotel, 01572 757901, www.rutlandhall.co.uk
Above Right:Ham hock terrine, with tomato and chilli chutney at The George Inn, 01572 756 971, www.thegeorgeinnoakham.co.uk
NB: Featured dishes subject to availability and change.
THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE
RESTAURANTS
THE BARNSDALE BRASSERIE – 1760
Set in a beautifully restored 17thcentury building, The Barnsdale provides a relaxed yet elegant dining experience. The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see barnsdalerutland.com.
BLOSSOMS RESTAURANT AT RUTLAND HALL
A contemporary restaurant serving a seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients, with a beautiful lakeside setting overlooking Rutland Water. The hotel also has a new spa and wellness facility, the Four Roots Experience.
OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS
Each year we ask our readers to vote for their favourite restaurants, coffee shops and food producers, revealing our winners in our January editions. We’ve highlighted our winners in gold to make sure they’re easy to see!
Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk to find out more.
Help us keep Rutland & 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
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. Hambleton, Oakham, LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.
HITCHENS BARN
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
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.
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.
Featured in The Good Food Guide book of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants in 2023, 2024 & 2025. Holders of two AArosettes for culinary excellence. Burley Road, Oakham LE15 6DH. Call 01572 722255 or see www.hitchensbarn.co.uk.
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
O
ffering 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 and Gurkha traditions, served with genuine warmth and hospitality. Open for lunch, dinner and takeaway. 11 Broad St, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 917598 or 07414 185679, www.thegurkhasstamford.com.
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 18thcentury 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.
SARPECH INDIAN RESTAURANT
Offering a contemporary dining experience with a focus on topquality Indian cuisine and excellent service. Burley Corner, Oakham, LE15 6DU. Call 01572 842888 or see www.sarpech.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 BERTIE ARMS
Gorgeous C17th thatched pub in Uffington run by Katie and James Genever. Simple pub classics and à la carte dishes. Uffington, PE9 4SZ. Call 01780 766400 or see www.thebertiearms.co.uk.
THE BLUE BALL AT BRAUNSTON
Cosy country pub with a focus on local produce, offering traditional British dishes. Cedar Street, Braunston, LE15 8QS. Call 01572 722135 theblueballbraunston.co.uk.
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.
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. 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 longstanding 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 and open seven days.
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.
Country pub with a recently refurbished interior, offering a wide range of beers, wines, and homecooked food. Whitwell Road, Whitwell, Oakham LE15 8BW. Call 01572 510137 or see www.noelatwhitwell.com.
THE SUN INN, COTTESMORE
A beautiful thatchedroof country pub offering a varied menu made with locally sourced seasonal produce. Main Street, Cottesmore, Oakham, LE15 7DH. Call 01572 812321 or see www.suninncottesmore.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. Part of the Knead Pubs group alongside Paten & Co and The Crown Hotel.
St Paul’s St, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 753800 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.
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.
Hambleton Hall.
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.
FIKA STAMFORD
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, it’s perfect for those seeking a stylish spot for brunch, lunch, or a relaxed coffee break.
High Street, Stamford PE9 2BB. Call 01780 723514 or see www.fikacafe.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.
‘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 rutlandnursery.co.uk.
The Olive Branch, Clipsham.
CAFÉS AND TEA ROOMS
BARNSDALE GARDENS
A delightful spot within Barnsdale Gardens, known for serving freshly made dishes. The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 813200 or see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk.
THE DAIRY BARN CAFE
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.
FROTHYS
COFFEE
SHOP,
STAMFORD
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.
HAMBLETON BAKERY
Artisan bakery offering a range of breads, pastries, and sweet treats created by Julian Carter and his team.
Cottesmore Road, LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.
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. Call 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.
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.
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 cameo of bittersweet citrus and elderflower, £44/70cl. See www.tipplemill.com.
TWO CHIMPS COFFEE
Fun, friendly coffee roastery providing single origin coffee, loose leaf tea, hot chocolate and coffee roasting experiences. 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.
STICKY SPICED CHICKEN WITH BOMBAY POTATO HASH
SERVES 2
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 120g/4¼oz each) 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds Salt and black pepper
For the marinade: 1 tbsp mango chutney, 1 heaped tbsp thick Greek yogurt (0% or fullfat), Juice of ½ lemon, 1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ tsp garlic granules) 1 tsp mild curry powder
For the mint raita: 150g (⅔ cup) thick Greek yogurt (0% or fullfat) ¼ cucumber, deseeded and diced, 1 tsp garlic granules Juice of ½ lemon, 1 tbsp mint leaves, chopped
For the bombay potato and pepper hash: 300g (10½oz) potatoes, cut into small dice (skins on), 1 tsp olive oil, ½ red onion, finely sliced 1 red (bell) pepper, deseeded and diced 1 tsp mild curry powder, ½ tsp ground turmeric. Handful of coriander (cilantro), chopped, plus extra to serve.
n Mix the marinade ingredients with a pinch each of salt and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken, coat well and set aside for 5 minutes (or marinate longer if you have time).
n Heat a nonstick frying pan over a medium heat and cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Set aside to rest, then slice.
n Mix the raita ingredients together in a bowl with a pinch of salt.
n For the potato hash, place the diced potatoes in a microwavesafe bowl, cover, and microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender.
n Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, then add the potatoes, onion and pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and lightly crisp. Sprinkle over the curry powder, turmeric and some salt and pepper, tossing for another minute until fragrant. Stir through the chopped coriander.
n Spoon the raita onto plates, top with the potato hash, layer over the sliced mango chicken and scatter with pomegranate seeds and coriander before serving.
HONEY AND GREEK YOGURT BASQUE CHEESECAKE
ON SALE NOW SO GOOD EXPRESS Quick, nutritious food for a busy life by Emily English, Published by Seven Dials, £25. Photography by Clare Winfield.
SERVES
8
PREP: 5 MINUTES
COOK 30 MINUTES (OR UNTIL GOLDEN AND SET)
500g (generous 2 cups/1lb 2oz) light cream cheese
200g (scant 1 cup/7oz) Greek yogurt (0% or fullfat) 3 large eggs, 75g (3½ tbsp) honey, plus extra to serve 2 tbsp plain (allpurpose) flour 1 tsp vanilla extract Fresh berries, to serve
n A lighter Basquestyle cheesecake that swaps some cream cheese for Greek yogurt, keeping it creamy but higher in protein. Straining the batter before baking ensures the texture is extra smooth.
n Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C (400°F) Gas 6. Line a 20cm (8 inch) springform cake tin (pan) with baking parchment, letting it overhang the sides.
n Blitz all ingredients (except the berries) together in a blender until smooth, then strain through a sieve (strainer) into a jug.
n Pour into the lined tin and bake for 30 minutes or until golden and set, with a slight jiggle. Cool before slicing and topping with berries and extra honey.
The Sunshine Gin from Capri
Gin Mare Capri, £44, 70cl, 42.7%, www.ginmare.com.
Gin Mare Capri is a Mediterranean gin inspired by Capri, combining juniper with lemon, bergamot and grapefruit alongside basil and rosemary notes. It is crisp, aromatic and refreshing over ice with premium tonic and citrus. Perfect for July, it captures long summer evenings and relaxed entertaining, bringing coastal Italy home.
Heard it through the
Our monthly digest from Ketton’s Rutland Vineyard with Zoe & Tim Beaver
Wine & Spirits
A curated selection of Italianinspired wines, refreshing nonalcoholic serves and elegant summer drinks chosen to elevate long warm evenings, relaxed entertaining and seasonal living for stylish garden gatherings...
Three Italian Wines For Summer Dining
Pieropan Soave Classico, white peach and almond elegant, blossom notes, £18.50, 75cl, 12% ABV, www.pieropan.it.
Benanti Etna Bianco, lemon zest and volcanic minerality, beautifully fresh with depth, £24.95, 75cl, 12.5% ABV, www.benanti.it.
Fontodi Chianti Classico, dark cherry and violet notes, refined tannins and spice, £28, 75cl, 14% ABV, www.fontodi.com.
The vineyard is looking absolutely breathtaking in full bloom, with vibrant green vines stretching across the rolling Rutland countryside now the growing season is in full swing. Seeing the vines thriving under the summer skies reminds us why we are so passionate about producing wines that reflect our local landscape and our county. We are incredibly excited by the launch of our new Triple Tipple white wine, a delicious blend of our Bacchus and Ortega grapes, lovingly grown right here in Rutland. This fresh and aromatic wine captures the essence of the vineyard and has already become a favourite amongst many of our visitors. Alongside this, our very first Rosé has received such a warm welcome from you all. We are so grateful to everyone who has tasted it, shared kind feedback, and given it your seal of approval: your support means the world to us.
Elsewhere around the vineyard, our dog walking area is now available to book online. You can enjoy a relaxing glass of your favourite tipple while giving your pooch a safe and secure walk... the perfect countryside outing for both owners and dogs!
Visit The Rutland Vineyard’s tasting barn, Ketton, from Wed-Sat, therutlandvineyard.com.
The Guide
What’s On July
1st31st July
Twelfth Night at Tolethorpe
July at Tolethorpe promises another magical season of openair theatre as the Stamford Shakespeare Company invites you to enjoy its three 2026 productions.
Nestled within beautiful gardens and rolling countryside, the 400seat covered auditorium remains one of the region’s most atmospheric venues.
This season’s centrepiece is Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, the enduring comedy of mistaken identity, romance and mischievous humour.
Filled with memorable characters, witty dialogue and moments of joyful chaos, the production is perfectly suited to Tolethorpe’s enchanting surroundings and promises an evening of laughter and
3rd July
A Night at the Musicals
escapism for newcomers and seasoned theatregoers alike.
Alongside Shakespeare’s classic comedy, audiences can also enjoy the riotous modern farce One Man, Two Guvnors, Richard Bean’s fastpaced adaptation packed with slapstick humour, confusion and comic misunderstandings.
Meanwhile, Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island brings swashbuckling adventure to the stage, with pirates, and hidden treasure.
Arrive early to enjoy a picnic within the beautiful grounds or enjoy pretheatre dining at The Fig Leaf restaurant before settling into your seats for an unforgettable evening of theatre in one of the area’s most unique settings.
Throughout June, July and August, three productions run concurrently, see website for dates, www.tolethorpe.co.uk or call 01780 917240.
Join ClassicBRIT nominated soprano Katie Marshall for an evening celebrating iconic songs from Broadway to Hollywood. Katie has performed at venues including the O2 and St Paul’s Cathedral and toured with G4. Here she performs classic favourites from Carousel, West Side Story, My Fair Lady and the King and I, this will be an evening of glamour, music and romance. Katie is one of the most exciting young artists in the classical world today and captivates audiences with her pure tone, artistry and compelling stage presence. Friday 3rd July from 7.30pm, Stamford Arts Centre, £22/adults, call 01780 763203 or see www.stamfordartscentre.com.
4th July
Osprey Cruise
One of the most exciting ways to see Ospreys at Rutland Water is to take a guided trip aboard the Rutland Belle, set sail on an evening cruise and enjoy a different perspective on the reservoir. The cruises depart from Whitwell Harbour for an hour and a half cruise –refreshments available onboard. You can expect to see ospreys, but also Little Egret, Great Crested Grebe, Red Kite, Buzzard, Common Tern and occasionally Barn Owls and Grey Wagtails. Rutland’s Osprey cruises will take place on Saturday 4th, Wednesday 8th, Wednesday 15th, Saturday 18th and Saturday 25th and Wednesday 29th July, departing from Whitwell Harbour at 6pm, call See lrwt.org.uk/osprey-cruises.
Katie Marshall.
4th July
The Vintage Speed Trials
A celebration of prewar motorsport, set within the historic Grimsthorpe Castle estate. The events aims to uphold Grimsthorpe’s rich legacy of motorsport, which began in 1903 with the first timed runs in the old deer park, hosted by the Lincolnshire Automobile Club.
Grimsthorpe Castle, £21.29 general see speedtrials.co.uk.
5th July
John Clare Poetry Tour
Enjoy the idyllic surroundings of John Clare Cottage with a guided tour of the museum and gardens. The afternoon continues with a poetry walk around Helpston village, led by Stamford Sights and Secrets Tours in collaboration with local Stamford poets.
John Clare Cottage now operates as a museum, café and gardens, welcoming visitors from all over the world to engage in Clare's belief in our shared and timeless right to nature.
From 11am, £30 including lunch. John Clare Cottage PE6 7ED, call 01780 763 203 or see www.clarecottage.org.
10th12th July
Global Birdfair
Rutland Water once again becomes the centre of the international wildlife community this summer as the Global Birdfair returns for another inspiring threeday celebration of nature, conservation and outdoor adventure. The event attracts visitors from across the UK and beyond, combining expert talks, wildlife travel inspiration and a festival atmosphere in one spectacular setting.
Held at Lyndon Top overlooking Rutland Water, the Birdfair brings together conservation organisations, photographers, artists, tour operators and specialist exhibitors alongside some of the world’s most respected naturalists and broadcasters.
Visitors can enjoy a packed programme of talks, live demonstrations and workshops covering birdwatching, photography, conservation and the natural world, with opportunities to meet leading experts and discover exciting wildlife destinations from across the globe.
The event is equally appealing for families and casual visitors, with delicious local food, live entertainment, shopping and activities creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere throughout the weekend. Whether you’re a lifelong birdwatcher or simply love the outdoors, Global Birdfair offers a fascinating and uplifting summer day out with wildlife at its heart. £50/three day admission. For full programme of talks, see www.globalbirdfair.org.
11th July
Petrov & Summers
Music lovers are invited to enjoy an evening of exceptional chamber music as acclaimed cellist Michael Petrov joins pianist Susie Summers for a special recital featuring works by Beethoven and Rachmaninov. The programme includes Beethoven’s dramatic Sonata in G minor, Op. 5 No. 2 alongside Rachmaninov’s richly romantic Sonata in G minor, Op. 19. Petrov, praised for his ‘musical temperament and direct eloquence,’ performs on a rare 1745 JeanBaptiste Vuillaume cello. Saturday 11th July from 7.30pm, St Martin’s Church, Stamford, tickets £12/standard, £5/junior, call 01780 763 203 or see stamfordartscentre.com.
Clare Cottage.
QUANTUM THEATRE PRESENTS TREASURE ISLAND
Saturday 11th July, 6pm
JAZZ IN THE GARDENS
Sunday 12th July, 2pm
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
11th12th July
The Belvoir
Castle Flower and Garden Show
Returning on 11th and 12th July, Belvoir Castle once again hosts its annual Flower & Garden Show within the spectacular grounds of the historic estate. Overlooking the beautiful Vale of Belvoir, the muchloved event has become one of the highlights of the East Midlands’ summer calendar, attracting gardeners, plant lovers and families alike for a wonderfully relaxed
weekend celebrating horticulture, creativity and outdoor living. This year’s event promises stunning floral installations, imaginative show gardens and specialist plant exhibitors alongside artisan stalls, garden accessories and locally produced food and drink. Gardening enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to hear from familiar television personalities including Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost and gardening expert David Domoney, both appearing across the weekend with talks, demonstrations and questionandanswer sessions.
The muchadmired border competition will once again showcase creative planting schemes from emerging and established garden designers, while workshops and demonstrations offer practical inspiration to take home for gardens of every size.
Whether you’re a serious horticultural enthusiast or simply seeking a glorious day out against the backdrop of the Castle. You’ll enjoy a grand day out in a great setting. Belvoir Castle, £13/adult, £4/child, from 9.30am, see www.belvoircastle.com.
11th July
The Battle Proms
Concert at
Burghley House
The 21st annual Battle Proms Picnic Concert: an uplifting celebration of iconic music, dazzling fireworks and breathtaking displays!
Pack a picnic and chill the fizz as it’s going to be bigger and better than ever! Sing along to the stirring music, enjoy fireworks, Spitfire display, live cannons, mounted cavalry, the Red Devils parachutists and so much more at this unique Vintage Spectacular.
If swing is your thing you can get your toes tapping with the gorgeous harmonies and 1940s glamour of the Battle Proms Belles and their superb live band, and join in with the fabulous moves from the Victory Swing dancers.
Around the parkland you’ll also enjoy fascinating WWII living history displays.
Enjoy a glorious orchestral programme of iconic pieces from film, TV and the musicals alongside uplifting classical music you know and love, including the 1812 Overture and Beethoven’s ‘Battle Symphony’ complete with 200 live firing cannons, and muchloved operatic arias from superstar soprano Denise Leigh. The evening closes with a jubilant flagwaving, singalong finale with all the traditional prom favourites under a sky of dazzling fireworks!
Burghley House, gates 4.30pm, musical programme from 7pm, see www.battleproms.com.
17th July
Claire Martin at Stamford Arts Centre
Multi awardwinning jazz vocalist, Claire Martin OBE, hosts an intimate celebration of the great Jazz Divas of the Twentieth Century. Through a wonderfully diverse programme, specially arranged and curated by Claire, the concert features a sparkling collection of music inspired by the great ‘Jazz Divas,’ which includes the likes of Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee and Ella Fitzgerald whose legacy and influence continues to define a classic era of jazz singing. Friday 17th July, 7.30pm, Stamford Arts Centre, PE9 2DL, tickets £22/adult, call 01780 763 203.
17th July
Lamport Hall
Quilting and Sewing Show
A variety of exhibitors selling patchwork & quilting supplies for all your needs. Feature quilt displays from wellknown quilters and textile artists also on display. Also this month, Five hour Fused Glass Workshop with Sally McRae. Learn to make a shaped bowl or a stanup sculpture, Thursday 23rd July, from 10.30am, prebooking essential, £105/person. Quilting and Sewing show £9/on the door, from 10am, www.lamporthall.co.uk.
20th25th July
Waitress at Curve Theatre
Jenna, a waitress and expert piemaker dreams of some happiness in her life. When a dashing new doctor arrives in town, life gets complicated. With support of her workmates Jenna soon finds that love and friendship can provide the perfect recipe for happiness. Monday 20th-Saturday 25th July, Curve Theatre.
21st25th July
Tales from Acorn Wood
Author Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales
From Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage for the first time in an enchanting lifttheflap experience. Toetapping songs and puppetry. Tuesday 21st to Saturday 25th July, tickets £10-£18.50, Curve Theatre, LE1 1SB, call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.
25th July
Classic Ibiza at Burghley House
Burghley House’s Classic Ibiza promises another unforgettable evening of music, atmosphere and openair celebration beneath the stars. A muchloved concert that combines the energy of an Ibiza dance festival with the elegance of a stunning backdrop and a summer sunset.
For 2026, organisers are promising their most ambitious production yet as the acclaimed Urban Soul Orchestra expands to an impressive 45piece ensemble, conducted by Stephen Hussey.
Across fiveandahalf hours of live music, audiences can expect a soundtrack of Balearic classics, dance anthems and chilled summer favourites performed alongside worldclass DJs and the powerful vocals of the London Community Gospel Choir.
The evening begins with relaxed arrival sets and a brandnew ‘ChillOut Set’ designed to accompany picnics on the lawns before the tempo gradually builds towards a spectacular laserlit finale packed with iconic dancefloor fillers.
Burghley House, PE9 3JY. £57.50/general, £20/child 5-12 years, 5pm-11pm, see www.burghley.co.uk.
Claire Martin.
Waitress.
London Theatre
1st25th July La Bohème
Puccini’s opera is staged at London’s Royal Opera House. Rodolfo, a penniless poet, meets Mimì, a seamstress, they fall instantly in love. Rodolfo introduces Mimì to his bohemian friends Marcello, Colline and Schaunard. The group heads to Café Momus, where Marcello reunites with his exgirlfriend Musetta. Soon, the happiness of the friends, and of budding romance, is threatened when Rodolfo learns that Mimì is gravely ill. Can the warmth of friendship, and of young love, sustain the group of bohemians through the hardships of a cold winter? Sung in Italian with English surtitles.
Tickets £13-£280, Royal Opera House, London WC2E 9DD, 020 7304 4000, rbo.org.uk.
1st30th July Warhorse
At the outbreak of the First World War, young Albert’s beloved horse Joey is sold to the cavalry and shipped to France. Too young to enlist, Albert refuses to forget him, embarking on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of wartime France, determined to bring Joey home. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, War Horse is a timeless story of love, courage and friendship, brought to life by astonishing lifesized horses from Handspring Puppets Following a sellout national tour, the Tony Award–winning global sensation returns to the National Theatre.
Tickets £30-£110, National Theatre, SE1 9PX, 020 3989 5455, www.nationaltheatre.org.uk.
1st30th July Jesus Christ, Superstar
The awardwinning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of Jesus Christ Superstar comes to the iconic London Palladium this summer. Starring Sam Ryder as Jesus, Tyrone Huntley as Judas and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Simon Russell Beale, Richard Armitage, Boy George, Layton Williams and Julian Clary sharing the role of King Herod. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Jesus Christ Superstar follows the events of the last days of the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and the iconic title number Superstar. Tickets from £40, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, 0333 400 3562, www.openairtheatre.com.
1st31st July
The Guilty
Russell Tovey is troubled police officer Joe, stuck on the night shift, who takes a desperate 999 call from Emily. As he scrambles to decode fragmented clues from a woman in danger, a realtime thriller unfolds. In a night filled with unsettling twists, Joe has a mounting sense that nothing is quite as it seems.
Directed by Felix Barrett, The Guilty is by awardwinning writer Chloë Moss, based on the films of Den Skyldige and The Guilty.
Relive the 90s in all its iconic glory: music, fashion, football and the faces that made Cool Britannia cool.
Original costumes worn by the Spice Girls, previously unseen Oasis memorabilia, photography by Jill Furmanovsky and Derek Ridgers, and personal items from record producers and DJs Paul Oakenfold, Dave Pearce and Judge Jules are presented in a new exhibition marking thirty years of Cool Britannia. Author, broadcaster and former editor of The Sun Dominic Mohan curates a mustsee show featuring stunning memorabilia from the 90s when London felt like the centre of the earth and music, football, dance culture, fashion, art, food, politics and the media spectacularly collided.
Free exhibition at the Barbican EC2Y 8DS, presented by the City of London, 020 7870 2500, www.barbican.org.uk.
1st31st July
Star
Trek at 60
2026 marks 60 years since Star Trek first hit our screens. To celebrate, the British Science Museum has partnered with the franchise on a special exhibition of the iconic TV series and films.
A new, free exhibition at the British Science Museum about how food must change to protect the planet. How does our food today go from field to plate, and how will major advances in ecology and biotechnology change food in the future?
Produced by the awardwinning filmmakers behind many of Sir David’s TV programmes, this is a new 50minute experience blends footage of the natural world with cuttingedge animation to create something truly special with a clear message. Natural History Museum, SW7, £25/adult, £12.50/child, 020 7942 5000, www.nhm.ac.uk
1st31st July
Few productions in the West End have achieved the enduring success of Wicked, the spectacular musical that continues to captivate audiences at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre. Now one of the capital’s longest running shows, the production tells the untold story of the witches of Oz long before Dorothy arrived along the Yellow Brick Road. Based on Gregory Maguire’s acclaimed novel, the story follows the unlikely friendship between the intelligent and misunderstood Elphaba and the glamorous and ambitious Glinda. As their lives take dramatically different paths, audiences discover how one became known as the Wicked Witch of the West while the other became Glinda the Good. With dazzling staging, breathtaking costumes and a score packed with unforgettable songs including Defying Gravity and Popular, Wicked combines humour, emotion and spectacle in equal measure. The Apollo Victoria Theatre provides the perfect setting for this magical production, placing theatre lovers in the heart of London’s vibrant West End. Whether discovering Oz for the first time or returning for another visit, Wicked remains an unmissable theatrical experience. Tickets from £27, Apollo Victoria Theatre, SW1V 1LG, www.theapollovictoria.com.
David Attenborough (BBC).
La Boheme.
2nd31st July
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
One of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies returns to London this summer as A Midsummer Night’s Dream takes to the stage at Shakespeare’s Globe. Performed beneath the open sky on the banks of the Thames, this joyful new production brings romance, mischief and magic to life in one of the capital’s most atmospheric theatres.
Directed by Emily Lim, the production combines vibrant staging with the unique energy of outdoor theatre, creating an unforgettable evening, even for a lifelong Shakespeare fan.
Duran Duran return to London this summer with a spectacular headline performance at Hyde Park’s Great Oak Stage as part of the BST Hyde Park concert series. One of Britain’s most successful and enduring bands, the group promise an unforgettable evening packed with classic hits, dazzling visuals and the energy that has defined their career for more than four decades.
Fans can look forward to favourites including Rio, Hungry Like the Wolf, Girls on Film and Ordinary World as Simon Le Bon and the band take to one of the capital’s most iconic outdoor stages. Worldclass music and the atmosphere of a summer festival in central London.
Tickets from £79, Hyde Park, W2 2UH, 0300 061 2000, www.bst-hydepark.com.
10th11th July
Ludovico Einaudi
Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi will bring his atmospheric and deeply emotive music to London’s O2 Arena this month, in what promises to be one of the summer’s most memorable live performances. Marking his biggest ever UK show, the concerts will feature Einaudi performing alongside his full band, making these his only UK ensemble appearances of the year.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Over the past 30 years, Einaudi has become the world’s most celebrated contemporary classical composer, captivating audiences with music that blends minimalist piano melodies with cinematic scope and emotion. His compositions have become familiar to millions through acclaimed films including This Is England, Nomadland, Mommy and The Father, while artists as diverse as Iggy Pop, Nicki Minaj and Ellie Goulding have expressed admiration for his work. Renowned for creating unforgettable live experiences, Einaudi has performed everywhere from Arctic Ocean stages to soldout residencies at the Royal Albert Hall, the Barbican and Sydney Opera House. His music’s unique ability to feel both intimate and epic has earned him a devoted global following. Opening the evening will be celebrated organist and broadcaster Anna Lapwood MBE, Organist of London’s Royal Albert Hall and one of classical music’s most exciting modern ambassadors. Together, the performances promise an extraordinary evening of powerful, immersive music.
See www.theo2.co.uk.
9th31st July
Buckingham Palace Annual Summer Opening
Visitors to London this summer can enjoy a rare opportunity to step inside Buckingham Palace as the State Rooms open to the public from July. The annual summer opening allows guests to explore the magnificent interiors used for official royal occasions and state entertaining. Highlights include the Throne Room, White Drawing Room and the impressive Picture Gallery featuring works from the Royal Collection. Set within the heart of the capital, the experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the history, ceremony and splendour of the British monarchy.
Tickets £33/adults, £21.50/age 18-24, £16.50/child, 0303 123 7300 or see www.rct.uk.
17th July First Night of the Proms
Dalia Stasevska and massed BBC forces launch the 2026 season with an American accent. Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man; Gershwin’s ‘rhapsodic ballet’ An American in Paris and Ravel’s bluesy Concerto in G major. Tickets £28.52 to £89.72, Royal Albert Hall, SW7 2AP, 020 7589 8212 or see www.royalalberthall.com.
17th26th July
Swan Lake
One of the world’s most celebrated ballets returns to London this season as Swan Lake is performed at the magnificent London Coliseum. Presented by English National Ballet, this timeless production brings together breathtaking choreography, sumptuous costumes and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score in a truly spectacular
evening of classical dance.
Telling the tragic story of Prince Siegfried and the enchanted Swan Queen Odette, Swan Lake remains one of the most romantic and dramatic works ever created for the stage. Audiences can expect graceful performances, dazzling sets and the iconic Dance of the Little Swans.
Tickets from £25, London Coliseum, WC2N 4ES, call 020 7845 9300, www.londoncoliseum.org.
Duran Duran.
25th31st July
Cats: The Musical
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical Cats returns to London this summer in a spectacular new production at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Set beneath the stars in one of the capital’s most beautiful outdoor venues, the awardwinning show promises an unforgettable theatrical experience combining music, dance and striking visual storytelling.
Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the musical follows the Jellicle cats as they gather for their annual ball where one special feline will be chosen to begin a new life. Audiences can expect beloved songs including Memory alongside breathtaking choreography and imaginative costumes that have made Cats one of the world’s most successful musicals.
The unique setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre adds an extra sense of magic to the production, with performances unfolding against the backdrop of London’s summer evenings. Atmospheric, energetic and filled with emotion, Cats remains a timeless celebration of individuality and imagination. Whether revisiting a classic or seeing it for the first time, this iconic musical is one of the season’s most exciting theatre events.
Tickets from £15, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, 0333 400 3562, www.openairtheatre.com.
Ludovico Einaudi.
July Cinema Releases
The Odyssey (US, 12A)
Christopher Nolan takes on one of literature’s greatest adventures with The Odyssey, a retelling of Homer’s ancient epic. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, the Greek king trying to return home after the Trojan War, with a huge cast including Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron. Expect myth, danger, battles, monsters, gods and largescale filmmaking Nolan is known for. An ancient story meets hitech cinematography and the result is, er... epic.
Ish (UK, TBC)
Ish is a powerful British comingofage drama from artist and filmmaker Imran Perretta. The film follows twelveyearold best friends Ish and Maram as their close bond begins fracturing after a traumatic police stopandsearch incident. Against a backdrop of racial profiling, grief and growing social tension, the boys struggle to understand friendship, identity and the pressures of masculinity. Shot in striking black and white, the film is an intimate portrait of modern British adolescence and prejudice.
The Invite (US, 15)
Joe and Angela are on thin ice, and tonight might be when it all falls apart. Unfortunately, their upstairs neighbours are about to arrive for dinner, and everything that can go wrong goes worse. Olivia Wilde’s scenes from a marriage are suitably raw and revealing, but also compassionate, deeply human, and incredibly funny. Two couples endure awkward small talk, grievances, and insecurities, in a tense production, shot chronologically on 35mm, bringing a clever, claustrophobic aesthetic to the drama.
Birds of War (UK, TBC)
Birds of War is a documentary by Janay Boulos and Abd Alkader Habak, following a Londonbased Lebanese journalist and a Syrian activistcameraman whose professional connection becomes a love story shaped by conflict. Told through 13 years of personal archives, the film moves between revolution, war and exile, beginning with Boulos seeking footage from Aleppo during the Syrian civil war. Intimate, urgent and deeply human, it explores love, journalism, displacement and the moral weight of bearing witness.
500 Miles (Ireland, 12A)
Bill Nighy stars in 500 Miles, a warm and uplifting road movie following two young brothers who flee their troubled home in Yorkshire and set out on an unforgettable journey to Ireland’s wild west coast. Hoping to reunite with their estranged grandfather, the boys encounter unexpected adventures along the way. Emotional, funny and beautifully filmed, the movie blends family drama with heartfelt charm, celebrating resilience, hope and the power of reconnecting with those we love.
Life Support (UK, TBC)
A harrowing BritishPalestinian documentary examining the collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system during the ongoing conflict. Directed by Daniele Rugo, the film follows international doctors entering Gaza to work inside overwhelmed hospitals, documenting bombed wards, dwindling medical supplies and the emotional toll on both staff and civilians. Combining firsthand testimony with footage captured by Palestinian journalists, the documentary offers an unflinching portrait of survival.
Rosebush Pruning (US, 18)
Karim Aïnouz directs this satirical thriller about an obscenely wealthy American family hiding dark secrets inside a luxurious Catalonian villa. Inspired by Marco Bellocchio’s Fists in the Pocket, Rosebush Pruning follows siblings Jack, Ed, Anna and Robert as grief, jealousy and twisted relationships begin tearing their privileged world apart after Jack introduces his girlfriend to the household. The film blends black comedy, psychological drama and surreal excess into family dysfunction.
My Father’s Island (Fr, 15)
My Father’s Island is an atmospheric psychological drama set amid the isolated beauty of Norway’s fjords. Following a fractured relationship with his father, teenager Roy travels to a remote island where the pair attempt to reconnect away from modern life. But growing tension, loneliness and emotional instability soon turn their retreat into something darker. Adapted from David Vann’s acclaimed novel Sukkwan Island, the film combines stark Nordic landscapes with an intense exploration of masculinity and grief.
Never Had a Chance (UK, 18)
Set within West London’s Punjabi community, Never Had a Chance is a gritty British drama from director Jazz Bhalla. Ravi dreams of escaping his troubled past and building a better future after meeting Sukhi, but the pull of old loyalties proves difficult to resist. Drawn back into street crime by his reckless best friend Jay, Ravi finds himself spiralling into moral compromise. Starring Amar Chaggar and Tina Sharma, the film explores identity, friendship and the struggle to break free from circumstance.
Alpha (India, TBC)
Alia Bhatt leads the cast of Alpha, an explosive new Indian action thriller set within the hugely popular YRF Spy Universe. Costarring Sharvari, Bobby Deol and Anil Kapoor, the film follows two elite female agents drawn into a dangerous mission against a ruthless enemy. Packed with stylish action sequences, suspense and highstakes drama, Alpha promises fastpaced entertainment and marks a bold new chapter for Bollywood’s growing appetite for bigscreen spy adventures.
SpiderMan (US, TBC)
SpiderMan:Brand New Day sees Tom Holland return as Peter Parker for the latest chapter in Marvel’s hugely successful superhero series. Following the dramatic events of No Way Home, Peter faces a fresh start as he balances ordinary life with the demands of being New York’s friendly neighbourhood SpiderMan. With new villains emerging and old dangers resurfacing, the film promises spectacular action, emotional depth and plenty of humour, delivering another thrilling adventure for Marvel fans.
And for the family...
Looking to entertain the children or grandchildren over the holidays? Cinema audiences are spoilt for choice this season, with Disney’s eagerly awaited Moana returning for another ocean adventure alongside the everpopular yellow troublemakers in Minions & Monsters. Meanwhile, Pixar reunites Woody, Buzz and the gang for Toy Story 5, promising fresh laughs and heartfelt moments for all ages. With colourful animation there’s plenty to enjoy on the big screen this summer.
JULY BOOK RELEASES
Running On Air
Sophie Raworth
The inspiring story of how one of Britain's bestknown broadcasters found her feet through running. At the age of 40, BBC broadcaster Sophie Raworth assumed she was too old to start running. She had done no exercise for decades. But after seeing a friend do the London Marathon, Sophie decided to give it a go.
Her first attempt was a disaster. But she picked herself up and kept going on a path that would take her to races all over the world. 256 pages, hardback, £18.
JULY’S MUSIC PICK
How to Fly
Simon Barnes
Flight fascinates us. We thrill to birds, we adore butterflies, we're baffled by bats and we can hardly believe in pterodactyls. We worship angels and we compare love, religious ecstasy and artistic achievement to flight. Bestselling writer Simon Barnes brings together all aspects of aerial life –evolution, technology, mythology, religion, nature and imagination – in a celebration of the wonders of flight. Taking in the thoughts of great poets, musicians and athletes in the process.
368 pages, hardback, £20.
Pope Leo XIV
Elise Ann Allen
Who is Robert Prevost, the man who is now Leo XIV?
What personal traits led him to be chosen as pontiff at a time when the Catholic Church was debating whether to continue the legacy of Francis I or roll back the reforms advanced by him?
How did he rise as pope in an overwhelmingly majority vote and what could it mean?
Elise Ann Allen, specialising in Vatican news, outlines a detailed and intimate profile of the new pope, from childhood to his role as pontiff
336 pages, hardback, £25.
The Boys of Dungeon Lane Paul McCartney
Look out... old Mac he is back, with his first new solo album to be released in over five years.
The Boys of Dungeon Lane is not only the 18th solo album to be released by Paul McCartney; it is a collection of rare and revealing glimpses into memories neverbefore shared from one of the most culturally significant figures of our time.
The album is his most introspective album to date, taking the listener back to where it all began. These extraordinary new songs find Paul writing with rare openness about his childhood in postwar Liverpool, and early adventures shared with George Harrison and John Lennon long before the world had ever heard of Beatlemania. £12.99/CD, £29.99/vinyl.
Signals
Dr Saira Hameed
Hormones control our milestone moments as well as our daytoday emotions and behaviour. Dr Saira Hameed is a leading endocrinologist and here, she takes us on a journey inside our bodies to reveal the spectacular endocrine life force at work.
Combining patient histories, with stories of medical breakthroughs and addressing common misconceptions, this is a vital book for anyone who wants to understand their health and appreciate the wonder that to be human is to be hormonal.
336 pages, hardback, £20.
More affluent readers. More online readers. Highest engagement. Transparent circulation. When you need premium readers, Pride delivers - literally!
Reach the region’s most affluent readers - every month. Over 60,000 engaged readers across print and digital. w: www.pridemagazines.co.uk t: 01529 469977 or e: sales@pridemagazines.co.uk
The Henley Royal Regatta
Combining world-class rowing with timeless social tradition, Henley Royal Regatta attracts Olympic athletes, elite crews and thousands of spectators for six days of competition, and quintessential English style
Images: Benedict Tufnell.
HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA
Each summer the quiet town of Henley-on-Thames becomes the setting for one of Britain’s most recognisable sporting occasions. Henley Royal Regatta combines elite competition, rich tradition and an unmistakably English sense of occasion, drawing competitors and spectators from across the world to the banks of the River Thames.
For six days the river is transformed into a theatre of sporting drama, where Olympic champions race alongside students, club crews and rising young athletes. Yet Henley is far more than a rowing event. It is also a social institution, famed for riverside hospitality, elegant dress codes, champagne picnics and the timeless charm of an English summer.
A Regatta with Victorian Roots
The origins of Henley Royal Regatta date back to 1839 when the Mayor and people of Henley decided to stage a rowing event designed to attract visitors to the town and promote interest in the sport. The first regatta was a modest affair lasting just a single day and featuring only a handful of races.
What began as a local sporting attraction soon flourished during the Victorian era, helped by the growing popularity of rowing among schools, universities and private clubs. As rail travel improved and Britain’s middle and upper classes embraced organised sport, Henley rapidly established itself as the country’s leading rowing event.
Royal approval followed soon afterwards. Prince Albert became patron in 1851 and, six years later, Queen Victoria granted the regatta official Royal status. From that moment it became known as Henley Royal Regatta, a title that cemented its prestige and ensured its place at the heart of British sporting society.
Over subsequent decades the regatta absorbed and replaced several smaller rowing meetings that had taken place along the Thames. By the end of the nineteenth century it had developed into an international event, attracting crews not only from Britain but from Europe, the United States, Australia and New Zealand. Today Henley remains one of the most coveted prizes in rowing, with victories carrying enormous prestige throughout the sport.
From Gentlemen Amateurs to Olympic Champions
For much of its history Henley reflected the traditions of Victorian sporting society and competition was dominated exclusively by men. Women first raced at the regatta in 1975 when a small number of exhibition events were introduced.
Over time female competitors became increasingly integrated into the programme and by the 1990s women’s races officially formed part of the regatta itself. Since then women’s rowing has grown dramatically, with elite international crews now among the highlights of finals weekend.
Modern Henley welcomes competitors across a broad range of categories and standards. Amateur club rowers line up alongside Olympic medallists, university crews and national teams, all competing on the same historic stretch of river. Each year around 4,000 athletes, coaches and support staff descend upon Henley, representing hundreds of rowing clubs, schools and institutions from around the globe.
Six Days of Intense Racing
Henley Royal Regatta traditionally begins on the Tuesday following the final week of June and concludes on the first Sunday in July. More than 400 races take place during the week, in a fiercely competitive knockout format. The simplicity of the structure adds to the tension. Lose once and a crew is eliminated immediately. Win and they progress through the rounds towards the coveted finals.
Events are divided according to both boat class and standard of competition. There are races for single sculls, pairs, fours and eights, together with categories for junior athletes, students and club crews.
Among the regatta’s most famous trophies are the Grand Challenge Cup for men’s eights, the Ladies’ Challenge Plate, the Thames Challenge Cup and the Remenham Challenge Cup for women’s eights. Unlike many modern sporting events there is no prize money at stake... just the honour of victory!
For elite rowers, winning at Henley often ranks alongside success at the World Championships or Olympic Games.
The Famous Henley Reach
THE HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA
Central to the regatta’s appeal is its historic course along the Henley Reach of the Thames. The modern course measures one mile and 550 yards, slightly longer than the international Olympic standard of 2,000 metres.
In the regatta’s earliest years the course layout varied considerably depending on local river conditions, but over time improvements created the straighter and fairer course seen today. The distinctive side-by-side racing format evolved during the nineteenth century as the banks and islands along the route were reshaped and stabilised.
The final stretch towards the finish line near Temple Island and the Stewards’ Enclosure has produced some of the sport’s most memorable moments, with exhausted crews battling stroke for stroke in front of packed riverside crowds.
A Defining Social Occasion
While rowing remains at the heart of Henley Royal Regatta, the event is equally famous for its social atmosphere. Around 300,000 visitors attend across the six days, making it one of the highlights of the British summer season. Spectators gather along both banks of the river,
enjoying picnics, garden parties and hospitality marquees while watching the racing unfold. The combination of sport, tradition and riverside elegance creates an atmosphere unlike any other British sporting event.
General admission tickets usually begin at around £30 to £40 depending on the stage of the regatta, while premium hospitality experiences can cost several hundred pounds.
The most exclusive area remains the Stewards’ Enclosure, where entry is restricted to members and invited guests. It is regarded as the social heart of Henley and is famed for its strict dress code.
Men are expected to wear lounge suits or jackets with ties, while women traditionally wear dresses or skirts below the knee accompanied by hats or fascinators.
Elsewhere, the Regatta Enclosure offers premium riverside viewing with dining, bars and private hospitality, particularly popular during finals weekend.
Henley Royal Regatta takes place from Tuesday 30th June to Sunday 5th July. For tickets and further information see www.hrr.co.uk.
HOMES & GARDENS
WELCOME HOME
Chestnut Farm
A beautifully restored Grade II listed farmhouse with a rich sense of history. Chestnut Farm combines elegant period character with contemporary family living, extensive equestrian facilities and 35 acres of gardens and paddocks, located on the edge of Braunston
“It’s a great family home,” says Nicky Brake. “I can’t tell you how many parties we’ve had here. We’re big party people and the kids were about five and seven when we moved to Rutland, so when we found this house about six months later, it soon became the kind of place that’s always full of kids, noise and excitement.”
Nick and Nicky are originally from Kent and, via the French Alps where they ran a ski business, and a property in Nottingham, they moved to Rutland in 2009, soon falling in love with Chestnut Farm in Braunston. Much of the property was constructed in the 17th century, although it’s believed that certain parts of the building are even older. Additions in the 19th century and in the 1930s have seen the property amass a total of 7,000 sq ft in the main house itself. There’s a self-contained granary too, with an additional 1,700 sq ft of living space, and the properties are set within 35 acres of grounds.
Grade II listed and made of ironstone, the farmhouse is arranged over three floors. It comprises four main reception rooms currently arranged as a living kitchen, dining room, playroom and snug, plus six bedrooms across the two upper floors, with five en suites.
Words: Rob Davis.
The property’s kitchen was designed and built by Nick in what was formerly a barn in the east wing of the property, replacing a much smaller kitchen to create a snug.
The solid chestnut timber cabinetry combines with honed granite work surfaces and appliances from premium brands like Siemens and Quooker, alongside a four oven electric Companion Aga, plus a large separate pantry with refrigeration appliances and plenty of storage. There’s a separate utility room and boot room too, meaning there’s plenty of space for keeping family clutter out of the way.
The kitchen’s living and dining areas mean there’s plenty of space to socialise and, understandably, Nicky and Nick say the family spend most of their time there. Its size is mitigated by natural light and porcelain flooring with underfloor heating, so it always feels cosy too. Speaking of being cosy, the dining room, playroom and main living kitchen all have wood burners as well.
The playroom in the west wing of the property is contemporary in style, whilst the dining room has a handsome stone fireplace. There’s a study too, with plenty of space for those working from home. A mezzanine area above the kitchen provides an additional art studio at one end and a gym area at the other.
The Granary is currently being put to good use as a holiday let, but could easily accommodate intergenerational living, with a sitting room, large dining kitchen, separate utility room, and two bedrooms with an en suite and a shower room respectively.
The space continues outdoors too, with a stable block that has a large barn area, six boxes, plus space for tack and a wash area.
Additional outbuildings include two further stables, a storage area, a triple garage and a potting shed... the latter provides good storage for Nicky’s beautiful and substantial kitchen garden, which is, quite understandably, her pride and joy.
The family used to keep horses and ran a livery from the property, with plenty of space and paddock areas for horses or a smallholding. With their son and daughter now in their early 20s, the couple are downsizing and hope that a family will take on the property, having just as much fun and making as many memories as they have. They’ll miss the place and want to stay in the area... but now, they say, is the time to let someone else enjoy Chestnut Farm. And in fairness, there’s a lot to enjoy!
Rooms: Four, currently arranged as living kitchen, snug, dining room, playroom. Six bedrooms with four en suites.
Guide Price £3,500,000.
Find Out More: Currently on the market with King West, Stamford, call 01780 484520 or see www.kingwest.co.uk.
25 Years of Timeless Interior Design Excellence
With 25 years in the industry, Sarah Harding Interiors has been transforming homes with elegant, personalised interior design tailored to each client’s lifestyle and vision. From countryside retreats to contemporary city spaces, every project is approached with creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for exceptional craftsmanship.
Supported by a skilled and dedicated team,
Sarah Harding Interiors offers a seamless, collaborative experience from concept to completion. Known for combining timeless style with a warm, client-focused approach, Sarah has built a reputation for creating beautiful interiors that not only meet expectations, but exceed them.
“If you want to save yourself time and money, then I would highly recommend Sarah Harding Interiors. Sarah is an
incredible talent. She listens to what you are wanting to achieve, offers her gentle guidance, giving spectacular end results.
Her customer service is first class, and you will end up with designs that you will totally love and cherish.
Highly recommend her and after trying so many others, I would now not go anywhere else” says one happy customer.
Secret Garden Curiosities
Transform your garden with unusual, luxurious and whimsical touches
RUSTIC GARDEN MIRROR
Large arch mirror adds depth and character to outdoor garden spaces, £289, loungeliving.co.uk.
RED STAG SCULPTURE
Created by Charles Elliott, a limited edition of twelve, £58,147, Call 01494 302201.
MOONLIT OUTDOOR MAGIC
Bring soft lunar ambience to patios and pergolas with elegant outdoor pendant lighting, £117, ulorra.com.
ELEGANT OUTDOOR TABLE
It’s simple, descriptive, and highlights both style and function for the garden setting, £790, massworks.co.uk.
HYDRA SCULPTURE
Created by David Harber, verdigris and gold patina, £POA, www.davidharber.co.uk.
LUXE WOODLAND CHARM
Made with reclaimed oak, underfloor
heating, full kitchen and shower room, £39£45,000, 01793 716316.
Artful, British made pieces that bring whimsy and character to every meal, £140, emmajshipley.com.
A luxe, handcrafted parasol that brings elegant shade and style to outdoor living, £780, theroost.com.
SERENE GARDEN GUARDIAN
Elegant sitting fairy adding timeless character and whimsical elegance outdoors, £4,395, avantgardenbronzes.com.
RATTAN DAYBED RETREAT
Willowbrook lattice weave rattan daybed in natural tones for outdoor relaxation, £689, daals.co.uk.
COLOURBANK
Carpets, flooring, beds and more
With over 30 years’ experience and more choice and stock than any other retailer in the area, Leicester’s Colourbank is the name to know for carpeting and flooring, rugs, beds and mattresses
Words: Simon Johnson.
When it comes to interior design in Leicestershire and Rutland, we often obsess over the ‘eye-level’ details - the velvet of a sofa or the hue of a feature wall. Yet, the true character of a home is defined from the ground up. For over 40 years, Colourbank has been the silent partner in the region’s most elegant renovations, evolving from a local specialist into the largest independent flooring and bed retailer in the Midlands.
The Luxury of Choice: Carpet & LVT
In 2026, the trend for ‘quiet luxury’ has moved flooring to centre stage. At Colourbank’s superstores, the selection of premium carpets remains unparalleled. Whether you are looking for the cloud-like indulgence of a deep-pile Saxony for a master suite or the heritage charm of a woven Wilton, the quality is evident in every fibre. These are carpets designed not just for aesthetics, but for the sensory experience of home.
For those seeking the perfect marriage of practicality and prestige, Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) have become the sophisticated choice for modern Leicestershire living. Colourbank showcases the very best from industry leaders like Karndean and Amtico. These floors provide the authentic texture of reclaimed oak or honed stone but with a resilience that handles the rigours of family life with ease.
An Independent Legacy
What truly sets Colourbank apart is its status as a famed independent. In an era of generic retail chains, their four decades of experience provide a level of expertise that is increasingly rare. This longevity is built on a simple, honest foundation: unbeatable prices and gold-standard service. From the initial browse to the final fitting, the service is personal and precise. Because they stock more than anyone else in the region, the journey from selection to installation is famously swift. Whether you are refreshing a rural Rutland cottage or a contemporary Leicester townhouse, Colourbank remains the definitive destination for those who value quality underfoot. After all, a premium lifestyle begins with a premium foundation.
Colourbank is based at Crest Rise, Leicester LE4 9EX, call 0116 3500 630, and at Cavendish Road, Leicester, LE2 7PH, call 0116 3500 635. Alternatively visit www.colourbank.net. Open seven days a week.
HUNTERS INTERIORS HUNTERS INTERIORS
Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you.
Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you. The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD 01780 757946
Royal visits, celebrity appearances and magnificent show gardens too
Words: Rob Davis.
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show returned this year with all the colour, creativity and horticultural inspiration that has made it one of the most celebrated events in the gardening calendar. More than 145,000 visitors gathered in west London for a show that balanced spectacular floral displays with a strong environmental message, while the presence of the King and Queen ensured the event once again captured national attention.
This year’s show placed biodiversity, conservation and the protection of natural spaces firmly at its heart, with designers embracing wildlife-friendly planting, sustainable landscaping and traditional gardening craftsmanship. Yet alongside the gardens and displays, it was the appearance of Sir David Beckham and the unveiling of a rose bearing his name that created some of the most talked about moments of the week.
Royal approval at Chelsea
The King and Queen toured several of the headline gardens during their visit, spending time with designers, growers and charities connected to causes close to their hearts. King Charles III has long championed environmental issues and sustainable gardening, and this year’s Chelsea reflected many of those themes.
One of the most significant gardens visited by Their Majesties was The RHS and The King’s Foundation Curious Garden, designed by Frances Tophill. Filled with productive planting, wildflowers and traditional craft inspired elements, the garden was designed to celebrate the joy of gardening while encouraging biodiversity.
The King, who is patron of The Delphinium Society, was particularly interested in the garden’s delphiniums,
including several rare varieties. Sir David Beckham and Alan Titchmarsh were both involved in the project, with Beckham reportedly suggesting the inclusion of garlic and catmint in the planting scheme.
The royal couple also visited Sarah Eberle’s striking Campaign to Protect Rural England Garden, featuring an enormous sculpture of Gaia surrounded by naturalistic planting. The garden highlighted the importance of protecting overlooked areas of countryside on the edges of towns and cities.
Elsewhere, Japanese designer Kazuyuki Ishihara presented what may be his final Chelsea garden, Tokonoma Garden Sanumaya no Niwa, a contemplative space inspired by traditional Japanese gardens and family storytelling.
By any other name... David Beckham’s rose
One of the standout moments of this year’s Chelsea Flower Show was the unveiling of a new David Austin rose named in honour of Sir David Beckham.
The former England captain joined the Queen at the David Austin Roses exhibit in the Great Pavilion, where the family-run breeder revealed the new bloom. The tribute was reportedly organised after Beckham’s daughter Harper approached the company last year wanting to create something lasting and meaningful for her father’s fiftieth birthday.
Sir David described the gesture as an honour and said the rose would become a wonderful legacy for his family. He already has 37 of the roses planted in his Cotswolds garden, with additional specimens growing in his parents’ gardens too.
The connection between Beckham and gardening has grown considerably in recent years, with the former footballer becoming increasingly passionate about
horticulture and outdoor spaces. His role as ambassador for The King’s Foundation has further strengthened that association, and proceeds from every rose sold will help support the charity’s work.
The launch also created one of the most photographed moments of the show, with Beckham wearing the rose proudly as a buttonhole while greeting visitors and exhibitors.
Angela Rippon and Show Gardens Galore
Among the lighter moments at Chelsea this year was the appearance of Angela Rippon, who recreated her iconic dance routine from the 1976 Morecambe and Wise show.
As ever, though, the show gardens provided some of the most inspiring ideas of Chelsea week, combining artistry with powerful storytelling and imaginative planting.
Among the highlights was the Alzheimer’s Society Microbes and Minds Garden, featuring sweeping Corten steel curves intersecting around a central apple tree. The design explored the relationship between brain health, memory and the natural world. The balcony garden category also impressed visitors.
A Little Garden of Shared Knowledge, a space designed to blend personal sanctuary with memories of travel, gardening and creativity.
Meanwhile the Tales from the Riverbank Floating Balcony Garden recreated the atmosphere of riverside living with a floating home surrounded by lush planting that appeared to drift effortlessly alongside the water.
RHS Badminton and Sandringham
Chelsea may remain the jewel in the RHS calendar, but this summer the organisation is expanding its reach with two other major events. The inaugural RHS Badminton Flower Show takes place from 8th to 12th July, bringing worldclass planting and garden design to the grounds of the famous Gloucestershire estate. The event promises show gardens, floral displays, specialist nurseries and outdoor living inspiration in a spectacular countryside setting.
Later in the month comes the first RHS Sandringham Flower Show from 22nd to 26th July. Hosted at the Royal Estate in Norfolk, the event is expected to combine traditional horticultural excellence with the relaxed atmosphere of a summer country gathering.
www.rhs.org.uk
GARDENING with MARK LANE
As July reaches its glorious peak, the garden rewards us with colour, scent and abundance, but it also demands careful attention and thoughtful stewardship to keep the garden flourishing through high summer and beyond
Words & Images: Mark Lane.
July is one of those months where the garden feels abundant, generous and, if we’re honest, a little overwhelming. Everything is growing at pace, borders are full, vegetables are cropping and yet the list of jobs doesn’t slow down. In fact, July is about maintaining momentum while also preparing for what comes next. It’s a month of balance: enjoying the rewards while quietly steering the garden through its peak.
One of the key things to focus on in July is watering, but not just watering for the sake of it. It’s about watering wisely. Early morning or late evening is best, allowing moisture to soak into the soil rather than evaporating in the midday sun.
Water, water, everywhere... Deep, infrequent watering encourages plants to develop stronger root systems, rather than becoming dependent on surface moisture. Containers, hanging baskets and newly planted specimens will need particular attention, as they dry out quickly in warm weather. If you can, use collected rainwater; it’s better for plants and more sustainable.
Deadheading becomes a regular ritual this month. By removing spent flowers from plants such as roses, dahlias, cosmos and geraniums, you encourage further blooms and keep displays looking fresh. It’s a small task, but one that makes a noticeable difference.
Lawns, too, require a thoughtful approach. Growth is still active, but during hot, dry spells, it’s best to raise the cutting height slightly. This helps the grass retain moisture and reduces stress. If the lawn begins to look tired or brown, resist the urge to overwater, as it will usually recover with the autumn rain. Weeding is another ongoing job, though, by July, it becomes more about control than eradication. Annual weeds should be removed before they set seed, while perennial weeds need careful extraction to prevent regrowth. After weeding, a light mulch can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture, creating a more stable growing environment.
In the vegetable garden...
In the vegetable garden, July is both productive and forward-looking. Crops such as courgettes, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers and soft fruits are coming into their own, and regular harvesting is essential. The more you pick, the more the plants will produce. It’s one of the simplest ways to extend your harvest period.
Tomatoes, in particular, need consistent care. Pinch out side shoots on cordon varieties, tie in stems as they grow and ensure even watering to prevent issues like blossom end rot. Feeding with a high-potash fertiliser once flowers have set will support fruit development. It’s a rhythm: water, feed, check, repeat.
At the same time, it’s important to think ahead. July is a key sowing month for late crops. You can still sow carrots, beetroot, lettuce and radishes for succession, as well as autumn and winter vegetables such as kale, spring cabbage and turnips. This keeps the garden productive beyond summer and avoids crop gaps that can occur later in the year.
Harvesting and preserving herbs
Herbs are at their peak now, and regular harvesting keeps them productive. Many, like mint, thyme and oregano, can be cut back lightly to encourage fresh growth. It’s also a good time to harvest herbs for drying or freezing, preserving their flavour for use in the coming months.
Above: Mark Lane is a horticulturalist, garden designer, TV presenter, author of The Thrifty Gardener, Royal Gardens of the World and the Future of Gardens.
Summer pruning is another important task. Early-flowering shrubs such as philadelphus and weigela can be pruned after they finish blooming, helping to shape the plant and encourage strong growth for next year’s flowers. Wisteria also benefits from a summer prune, cutting back long shoots, to maintain structure and promote flowering.
Cutting back early perennials that have finished flowering can sometimes encourage a second flush. Plants like hardy geraniums and delphiniums may reward you with fresh growth and even additional blooms if trimmed and lightly fed.
Climbers and ramblers
Climbers and ramblers may need tying in as they grow rapidly. Keeping them supported not only improves their appearance but also ensures good air circulation, reducing the risk of pests and disease.
Aphids, slugs, snails and caterpillars are all active, and fungal issues such as powdery
mildew or rust can appear in warm, dry conditions. Rather than reaching immediately for treatments, consider a balanced approach. Encourage natural predators such as lacewings and ladybirds, maintain good spacing between plants and remove affected material promptly. A healthy, biodiverse garden often regulates itself more effectively than one that’s overly controlled with the use of insecticides, pesticides and herbicides.
Greenhouse care
Greenhouse care is especially important during this month. Ventilation is key; open doors, vents and windows to prevent overheating. Shading may be necessary during particularly hot spells, and watering will need to be frequent and consistent. Plants under glass can dry out quickly, and stress can lead to poor growth or pest problems.
Caring for soft fruit
If you’re growing fruit, protecting your harvest becomes increasingly important. Netting may be needed to keep birds off soft fruits (but
check nets regularly for inquisitive birds), while regular picking prevents overripening and waste. Strawberries, raspberries and currants all benefit from attentive harvesting.
And finally...
And then there’s the less tangible, but equally vital, job: spending time visiting gardens or simply enjoying your own garden. July invites you to pause, observe and enjoy the scent of flowers, the movement of pollinators and the interplay of light and shadow.
It’s easy to become caught up in the list of things to do, but July reminds us why we garden in the first place. Yes, there’s watering, weeding, feeding and pruning, but there’s also sitting quietly with a cup of tea, noticing how the garden shifts through the day.
In many ways, July is about stewardship rather than control, so, while the workload may feel steady, it’s also deeply rewarding. July is generous. It asks for your attention, but it gives back in abundance.
Gardening in July
n Water containers, hanging baskets and newly planted shrubs thoroughly during dry spells, ideally early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
n Deadhead roses, dahlias and summer bedding regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
n Trim lavender once blooms begin to fade, keeping plants neat and encouraging healthy new growth without cutting into old woody stems.
n Harvest runner beans, courgettes, salad leaves and soft fruit frequently to keep crops productive and prevent plants becoming overgrown.
n Feed tomatoes weekly with a high potash fertiliser and pinch out side shoots on cordon varieties for stronger fruit production.
n Check lilies, roses and vegetables for aphids, slugs and fungal problems, treating promptly to avoid damage spreading in warm conditions.
n Sow biennials such as foxgloves and wallflowers now for colourful displays next spring and early summer.
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.
£875,000
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.
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.
SHOTLEY
£565,000
OAKHAM
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.
An enviable opportunity to acquire a distinguished and energy-efficient Skandia-Hus residence, beautifully positioned in the sought-after hamlet of Shotley. The home enjoys a picturesque setting, with far-reaching views across open countryside, generous gardens extending to approx. 0.48 acres and a range of versatile outbuildings. Reception Hall, Wet Room, Kitchen/Dining Room, Sitting Room, Inner Hallway, 3 well-proportioned Bedrooms, Bathroom, Utility, Rear Porch. Energy Rating: D. MORCOTT
A much-loved family home for over 40 years, this Grade II listed former farmhouse dates back to 1686 and offers a wealth of period charm. 4 Reception Rooms, 5 Large Double Bedrooms & Loft Room, Bathroom, original Garage detached Barn, & Off-road Parking, Charming, Private Gardens. Energy Rating: D.
Offers In Excess Of £1,100,000
Medbourne Road, Hallaton
A beautifully reimagined five-bedroom home with stunning gardens, exceptional living space and an elevated position in one of the Welland Valley’s most sought-after villages. Standing proudly in an elevated position, this superb five-bedroom detached residence has been transformed by the current owners into a truly exceptional home extending to just under 3,300 sq. ft. What was once a traditional property has been completely renovated, redesigned and significantly extended, resulting in a contemporary, high-quality home
Guide Price £850,000
Main Street, Sewstern
A beautifully presented five-bedroom character farmhouse with extensive accommodation and superb grounds offering over 3,300 sq. ft. of generous and versatile accommodation, set in the heart of the sought-after rural village of Sewstern. Originally a modest cottage, the property has been thoughtfully and significantly extended over time, resulting in a wonderful blend of period charm and modern family living.
Waltham Road, Thorpe Arnold
Guide Price £1,100,000
De Bosco House presents a rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional country home of remarkable quality, beautifully positioned along one of Thorpe Arnold’s most picturesque lanes. This distinguished residence has been sympathetically upgraded throughout, blending timeless character with refined modern living to create a home of style, sophistication and comfort.
Main Street, Barrowden
Offers In Excess Of £400,000
Tucked discreetly behind its traditional stone façade, Mullion Cottage is a beautifully presented two-bedroom period cottage set in the very heart of one of Rutland’s most coveted villages. Unassuming from the roadside, the property reveals its full charm the moment you step through the garden gate and into the south-facing garden, where the honey-coloured stone glows warmly in the sunlight.
Manton
The Old Hall, a grade II listed building, was built by Sir Gilbert Heathcote of Normanton Hall, a co-founder of The Bank of England and one of the wealthiest commoners at the time. He created it for members of his family who resided there until the late 1800s, the property since having many esteemed owners including Caroline Beresford, the Duchess of Montrose, an eccentric aristocrat, socialite and notable racehorse breeder who used the pseudonym of Mr. Manton in Newmarket records to circumvent the rules.
Guide price £2,250,000
The Old Hall
www.pelhamjames.co.uk Enjoying far-reaching panoramic countryside views across a patchwork of green fields, Lodge Cottage is a fully refurbished family home on the edge of the peaceful village of Braceborough, blending contemporary comfort with effortless country living.
or
Lodge Cottage Braceborough
Uppingham
A contemporary house, with inverted layout, offering bright, well-appointed living spaces, designed to maximise south and east aspects, the wooded views and the secluded Uppingham setting. Discreetly positioned along a private lane, this striking contemporary home, which was constructed in 2023, combines bold architectural vision with outstanding family accommodation, all within an unexpectedly secluded setting, little more than 600 metres south of Uppingham’s Market Place. London Road
Guide Price £1,795,000
Built in 2006, and set in a private position on the edge of the village, Scales Dyke is a striking stone and brick residence offering spacious, high quality living spaces across three floors. Constructed to an exacting standard, the property features underfloor heating to the ground and first floors, sash windows, solid oak and tiled flooring and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Scales Dyke Lyddington
The Manor House
Tallington
Full of character, from recessed windows now sealed in stone and timeworn shutters to aged beams in every shade of honey and chestnut, The Manor House is the very embodiment of English country heritage.
Guide price
£1,250,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Pudding Bag Lane
Exton
Exton is a charming conservation village in Rutland situated in attractive, undulating countryside about a mile to the north of Rutland Water. The village also has a popular local pub.
Guide price £1,395,000
King West 13 St Mary's Street, Stamford PE9 2DE Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
The
Old Vicarage Langham
The Old Vicarage is an elegant country home with beautifully proportioned rooms, high ceilings, and an abundance of natural light.
Offers Over £900,000
Moores Estate Agents Barleythorpe, Oakham, LE15 7FS Call 01780 484555 or see www.countryequestrianhomes.com
Church Lane Ridlington
This imposing Ironstone home is situated on an elevated position in the picturesque village of Ridlington.
£2,500,000
Osprey Property 4 Burley Road, Oakham LE15 6DH. Call 01572 756675 or see www.osprey-property.co.uk
Pointhyrst
Stamford
Built in 1928 and reimagined for modern life, this elevated Stamford home balances the assurance of its origins with a calm, contemporary finish.
Guide Price
£1,250,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Ketton House
Aldgate
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.
Guide Price £3,500,000
Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk
Chater Valley Farm
Pilton
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.
Guide price £1,950,000
Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com
Scales Dyke
Lyddington
Built in 2006, and set in a private position on the edge of the village, Scales Dyke is a striking stone and brick residence offering spacious, high quality living spaces across three floors.
Guide Price £2,450,000
Strutt & Parker 5 South View, Tinwell Road, Stamford PE9 2JL. Call 01780 510039 or see www.struttandparker.com
High Street
Uppingham
51-53 High Street is a beautifully presented period home being offered to the market for the first time in over 50 years, situated in the centre of Uppingham, having been thoughtfully renovated and upgraded.
Guide Price: £1,375,000
King West 13 St Mary's Street, Stamford PE9 2DE Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Main Street
Great Casterton
Nestled in the sought-after village, this beautifully presented 5-bedroom 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.
£1,150,000
Willow & Stone Properties 2 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PB. Call 01780 431218 or see www.willowandstoneproperties.co.uk
North Barn
Exton
North Barn is a distinguished four-bedroom stone-built barn conversion that combines the charm of a period property with the advantages of modern energy efficiency. Set within a generous plot.
Guide price £1,000,000
James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com
The Stone House
Caldecott
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.
Guide Price: £1,400,000
Strutt & Parker 5 South View, Tinwell Road, Stamford PE9 2JL. Call 01780 510039 or see www.struttandparker.com
Winston House
Langham
Discover the comforts of new build living in the peace and tranquillity of the countryside at Winston House in Langham.
Guide Price £1,100,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Chapel Street
Belton in Rutland
This substantial and characterful stone-built Grade II listed period home dating back to the early 17th century offers a rare opportunity to own a slice of history in the sought-after village of Belton.
£975,100
Hurfords 38 St. Marys Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS. Call 01780 752136 or see www.hurfords.co.uk
Bridge House Farm
Allexton
Bridge House Farm is a beautifully situated, south-facing five-bedroom farmhouse with a one-bedroom annexe and a range of characterful outbuildings. It sits within approximately three acres of grounds.
Offers in excess of £1,000,000
James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com
Tambre House
Ketton
Occupying a discreet position within the sought-after Rutland conservation village of Ketton, Tambre House is a stunning Stamford stone home, boasting tranquil gardens, with south-westerly lake views.
Guide price £2,850,000
Savills UK Ltd 9 High Street, St Martins, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com
Timeless Romance
Sophia and Stephen recently enjoyed a heartfelt celebration in Stamford, bringing together family, friendship and thirteen years of love, marked with thoughtful details and laughter
Images: Sarah Carter Photography, 07970 327716, www.sarahcarterphotography.co.uk.
There is something rather special about a couple who truly know one another. After thirteen years together, Sophia & Stephen’s wedding was never going to be anything other than deeply personal, effortlessly joyful and filled with meaning at every turn.
Having met at university in Plymouth, the couple’s story began far from Stamford, yet it is here that they chose to build their life together.
Drawn initially by work, they quickly fell in love with the town’s character and charm, eventually making it their permanent home. When it came to planning their wedding, there was
never any question. Stamford was not only beautiful, but perfectly placed for guests travelling from across the country and beyond.
The proposal itself was nothing short of cinematic. On New Year’s Eve 2025, surrounded by fireworks on the top deck of a cruise ship, Stephen surprised his bride completely.
Despite years of playful encouragement from her father, who had long since given his blessing, the moment still came as a total surprise. A classic round diamond solitaire in gold sealed the occasion, timeless and elegant, much like the celebration that would follow.
Sophia & Stephen wasted no time in planning, securing a date that felt wonderfully significant. Thirteen years together, celebrated on the 13th of September at The William Cecil.
The bride’s look was effortlessly romantic. Her Jenny Yoo gown, found at Halo and Wren, featured a full skirt, elegant train and statement puff sleeves, softened by a long veil finished with delicate pearl details.
Bridesmaids wore rich merlot satin dresses, whilst the groom and his party embraced classic black tie, a timeless choice that complemented the setting beautifully.
From the outset, the day was filled with warmth and personality.
Captured by photographer Sarah Carter and videographer James Smith, the atmosphere was relaxed, joyful and entirely genuine.
Their natural rapport with the couple ensured every moment felt effortless, resulting in images and film that truly reflected the spirit of the day.
Highlights came thick and fast. The speeches brought both laughter and surprise, particularly from the maid of honour, whose performance left the room in stitches.
The evening celebrations were equally memorable, with a lively band keeping guests on the dance floor well into the night.
In fact, many were so engrossed in the music that they missed the evening
food entirely, perhaps the greatest compliment of all.
Among the more touching moments was a surprise father and daughter dance, a gesture that brought genuine emotion to the room. And, in a final flourish, the newlyweds themselves took to the stage for a duet to close the night, a fittingly joyful and lighthearted end to a remarkable day.
For Sophia & Stephen, the wedding was never just about the ceremony. It was about bringing together the people who mattered most and creating a weekend filled with connection, laughter and celebration. Their advice is simple but valuable. Embrace the town around you, trust experienced local suppliers, and, if possible, keep your guests close. When everyone is together, the memories last far beyond the day itself.
Local Suppliers
Photographer: Sarah Carter Photography, 07970 327716, www.sarahcarterphotography.co.uk.
Hair: Lucy Watts, Lucy Locks 07568 350004 and Jamie Leigh at My Lab Stamford, 01780 591513.
Video: James Smith, info@jamessmithweddings.com.
Entertainment: Synergy Live Band 07531 109948, The Distractions Band 0115 6668276.
Dog Services: Campbell's Canine Services, 07599 279733.
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
SUN SHIELD
EVERYDAY SKIN DEFENCE
As we move deeper into summer, one beauty principle remains quietly essential and that is sun protection. For our readers who understand skincare as a long-term investment rather than a seasonal consideration, the newest wave of beauty launches makes it easier than ever to protect, perfect and refine the complexion within a simple daily routine.
What is particularly noteworthy this season is how seamlessly sun protection now fits into modern skincare and makeup. No longer heavy, chalky or clinical, today’s formulations feel comfortable on the skin while offering hydration, luminosity and broad-spectrum defence against daily exposure. Even on overcast days, UVA rays are present throughout the year and can penetrate cloud and glass, quietly contributing to pigmentation, fine lines and a gradual loss of elasticity over time.
One of the most welcome developments is the rise of complexion products with built-in sun protection. Tinted moisturisers and lightweight foundations now combine coverage with SPF, allowing skin to appear naturally even and softly radiant without the need for multiple layers. These are ideal for women who prefer an effortless finish that still feels polished and refined.
We are also seeing more protective primers and serums designed to sit beneath makeup. These multitasking formulas help defend the skin while delivering ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. The result is a smoother-looking base that supports makeup longevity while keeping the skin feeling comfortable throughout the day.
Lip protection is another area gaining attention. Hydrating balms with SPF help protect the delicate skin around the mouth, an area where sun exposure often shows earlier than expected. Regular use can help maintain softness while supporting a more youthful appearance over time.
Finishing powders with SPF are another clever addition, allowing easy top-ups without disrupting makeup. A light sweep across the face during the day is particularly useful for time spent outdoors, whether in gardens, at events or simply enjoying lunch in the sun.
Ultimately, sun protection has become an essential part of everyday beauty rather than a separate step reserved for holidays. The latest formulations make it simple to care for the skin while still enjoying a fresh, radiant complexion. It is a practical yet elegant approach to skincare that supports both immediate confidence and long-term skin health.
Our Recommended Products (above):
1. La RochePosay Anthelios UVMune 400 Hydrating Tinted Cream SPF50+. High protection tinted sun cream with UVA and UVB defence, lightweight finish that evens skin tone, £22.50, laroche posay.co.uk.
2. Rodial SPF50 serum drops that protect UVA and UVB while hydrating with antioxidants and blue light defence, leaving skin weightless and nourished, £75, rodial.com.
3. Clé de Peau UV Protective Lip Treatment SPF30. Velvety lip treatment that hydrates and protects lips with SPF30, keeping them smooth and nourished, £59, cledepeaubeaute.co.uk.
4. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Color Balm SPF50. Multitasking SPF50 colour balm that protects lips, cheeks and eyes with UVA and UVB defence while adding colour, £34, colorescienceuk.com.
5. Germaine de Capuccini HiProtection Makeup SPF50+. Compact colour sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection that evens skin tone while guarding against sun damage, £59, germainedecapuccini.com.
LUCY PEARSON
BACK TO SCHOOL
From Old Oakhamian to England international cricketer Lucy Pearson returns to Oakham School this summer, to mark both a personal homecoming and a historic new chapter for one of the area’s most renowned schools
Words: Rob Davis.
“It could only be Oakham!” As the saying goes, your school days are the best of your life, and that was certainly true for Lucy Pearson. She looks back on her time as a pupil at Oakham School in the early 1980s with such fondness that she later returned to Oakham as an international cricketer, to impart her enthusiasm for the game to a new generation of pupils at the school.
This September, Lucy will return to Oakham again, this time as its Headteacher, responsible for over 200 members of staff and 810 pupils, including nearly 400 boarders. As the school’s 32nd Headteacher, Lucy will also be the first female Head in its 442-year history.
“My working life has been centred around education. I started out as an English teacher and worked my way up to being a Headteacher, a role I loved. Then I moved to the Football Association as Director of Education,” says Lucy.
“I led the Division whose responsibility was to develop and deliver football’s qualifications for coaches, medics, talent scouts and welfare officers, from grassroots level right up to the WSL and Premier League. It was a really interesting role and great to work in a different sector.”
“After six and a half years at the FA and knowing that I like variety, I decided to move on again, this time to concentrate on a new voluntary role as Chair of the Lord’s Taverners, and to qualify as an executive coach. I was thinking about an eventual return to school leadership and then saw the position of Head of Oakham School being advertised. I realised that if Headship was the direction I was going in, it could only be Oakham.”
After leaving the school as a pupil, Lucy read English at Keble College, Oxford, where she also continued to pursue her preferred sport of hockey. We suspect a degree of false modesty when she says that she was ‘never going to set the world on fire’ in the sport.
As Lucy and a few of her peers were keen to continue playing sport in the summer after the hockey season had finished, they took up cricket instead, and that was when Lucy really found her game.
After graduation, she spent a year in Australia, imagining perhaps that she might drift into a polished graduate scheme and eventually run her own business. Instead, she found herself working in a boarding school in New South Wales, with the English department’s office located in the Sports Hall, “It was the perfect place for me!” she says.
LUCY PEARSON
Lucy had originally gone out to Australia intending little more than to have a year away and to think about the future. Instead, she discovered a love of working with young people. “There were two boys in one of the classes I taught who used to make me laugh,” she recalls. “I fell in love with being a teacher, with developing and supporting young people. It was a pleasure and a privilege to be surrounded by the energy, the fun and the drama that young people bring. Although I had intentions for my future to lie elsewhere than education, I realised this was where I really wanted to be. I didn’t want to be sat in an office; I wanted to be in the classroom and on the sports fields surrounded by and working with young people and their energy.”
Whilst discovering the joys of working in education, Lucy also pursued her love of cricket and, in 1996, she was invited to play in a warm-up game against New Zealand. Later that same summer, with New Zealand dominating the Test match series, the national selectors asked her to join the England team for the final Test. “Oakham had taught me about taking opportunities and seeing what happens when you really commit to something. I wasn’t on a talent pathway – I was a wild card really. But once that opportunity landed, I was determined to take it as far as I could.”
Lucy went on to open the bowling for England for nine years, playing in 12 Test matches and 62 one-day internationals from 1996 to 2005. She was twice named Women’s Player of the Year and became only the second woman in over 70 years of Test cricket - and the first for nearly 50 years - to take 11 wickets in a Test against Australia. Forced retirement came in the 2005 World Cup however, when she suffered a third stress fracture and decided that enough was enough.
“I had to admit it to myself and say ‘right, that’s me, I’m done,’” she says. “That is when my career in teaching, which I had been pursuing in parallel, really took off. I loved having both careers and I was very
A HISTORY OF OAKHAM SCHOOL
1584
Archdeacon Robert Johnson establishes Oakham School. His original schoolhouse still stands in the town and is being transformed into a new community performing arts space.
1925
The School’s Chapel is completed as a memorial to the 70 pupils and staff who lost their lives in the First World War. Today it is used for morning chapel, hymn practice and concerts, and it remains the beating heart of Oakham School.
fortunate to have two very generous bosses who recognised the value of having an international sportsperson working in the school; I was able to model having a dual career, having balance and choice alongside showing the great things that sport can bring.” Lucy taught at Wolverhampton Grammar School and then Solihull School as Head of Sixth Form, became Deputy Head at Wellington College before moving to Cheadle Hulme School as Head in 2010. She also served on the England and Wales Cricket Board and is currently Chair of the Lord’s Taverners, which aims to empower young people through cricket and support those living with disabilities or facing socio-economic disadvantage.
Lucy was named as the next leader of Oakham School in November and will take over the role from Henry Price, who is heading to Dubai to take up the position of Principal of Rugby School.
“Returning to Oakham feels incredibly special,” says Lucy. “The school opened doors for me, as it does for so many, not least through the bursary support that makes education here possible for a broad range of people. Without a doubt, the school instilled the skills and values in me that have shaped every stage of my life.”
“The wonderful spirit and ethos of the School remain exactly as I remember them. That was what I wanted to be sure of throughout the recruitment process. School communities naturally evolvepupils and staff change every year - but the character of a school, its spirit, should endure.”
“A Head’s role is to act as the steward of that spirit: to honour the heritage that generations have built, while ensuring the school continues to best serve its students and prepare them for adult life. The feel of a school inevitably shifts as each leader brings their own ethos and philosophy about education and young people, but that evolution sits alongside a deep respect for the school’s history and its immutable values.”
1971
Headmaster John Buchanan leads Oakham into a new era, becoming one of the first independent schools in the country to go fully co educational, setting the tone for its modern, inclusive identity.
1989
Oakham reaches a 50:50 balance of girls and boys – a ratio it still proudly maintains and a testament to the School’s longstanding commitment to equality and opportunity for all.
2001
The International Baccalaureate Diploma joins Alevels and Oakham quickly becomes one of the UK’s leading IB schools and a champion of innovative, futurefocused learning.
2025
The School’s Careers Department wins the Independent Schools of the Year Award in the Student Careers Programme category; celebrating its outstanding, fully integrated approach to preparing students for life beyond Oakham.
LUCY PEARSON
“Oakham has always been committed to developing the whole person and sought to be inclusive. It was one of the first boys’ independent schools to welcome girls, back in 1971, and it has long recognised the richness that comes from diversity and difference. A community is at its strongest when it brings together people with varied interests, backgrounds and characters.”
“Education is about developing young people who can move positively and confidently into their adult lives; young people who know themselves, who build positive relationships, who contribute, and feel equipped to navigate a changing world. Our job is to give them brilliant learning opportunities inside and outside of the classroom, so that when they leave us at 18, they feel ready for what comes next. That, ultimately, is our purpose.”
Lucy will relocate from Cheshire to Rutland over the summer break and is currently in Oakham every week or two, meeting parents, pupils and staff. It affords the opportunity, she says, to carefully consider the school’s future strategy and establish clarity in its direction from September, when she will officially be in post.
“As a leader, my job is to remove the obstacles that stop people from doing their best work,” she says. “Sometimes that means looking hard at the systems and structures we’ve inherited and asking whether they are still serving us: are they effective, are they enabling, are they adding value? Leadership is also about setting a tone: being positive, being visible, and being an ambassador for the school you are stewarding.”
Lucy describes her values as simple but unwavering. “I believe in treating people fairly. I believe in hard work. And I believe in giving things a go - creating a culture where people feel able to try, to learn and to grow.”
Arguably, such soft skills as these – resilience, emotional intelligence and also the ability to positively interact with one another – are increasingly valuable characteristics for a young person in a world where the Victorian philosophy of education, based on rote learning, has given way to application.
“We now carry vast amounts of ‘knowledge’ in our pockets. With the internet, we have access to more information, more quickly, than at any point in human history,” Lucy says. “But that makes our ability to create, to question and to interrogate what is in front of us more important than ever.”
She notes that artificial intelligence is often presented as the next great leap. “But AI works by analysing everything that has happened before and producing something based on that. The human mind can do something different: it can untether itself from the past and imagine the future. It can create something wholly new.” Critical thinking, she argues, is central to that uniquely human capability. “It’s essential for assessing the information we’re presented with today, especially for young people who must evaluate online content, influencers and AI-generated material. One of the things Oakham taught me was good judgement – something that I believe is more important than ever.”
Lucy also highlights how our understanding of intelligence has broadened. “Literacy and numeracy matter, of course, but so do problem-solving, logic, emotional intelligence and critical thinking. People think differently and learn differently, and they always will.”
That diversity has practical implications. “Take revision,” she says. “As a Headteacher, I absolutely recognise the need for pupils to revise. But effective revision varies enormously depending on an individual’s attention span and whether they respond best to visual, auditory, pictorial or kinaesthetic strategies.”
What she resists is any attempt to impose a single correct way of learning or living. Instead, she talks about ‘freedom under the law;’ the idea that schools can create clear boundaries while still allowing pupils to discover the methods and habits that suit them best.
“We want young people to find their own way,” she says. “To work out for themselves what works best for them rather than dictating that there is only one route to success. It’s simply not true and is another example of where diversity, appreciating and understanding difference, is so important. As much as we want young people to work out their own way, their own path, we need to help them appreciate that others might have other ways and other paths, and that richness is a strength.”
Not only has learning become more challenging, but being a young person today can also be fraught with uncertainty.
Lucy being interviewed by BBC Radio Leicester in 1989 whilst a student at Oakham School.
This is reflected in the increasingly important role that pastoral care and safeguarding play in education. Lucy is clear that schools must protect children, but equally that young people cannot simply be instructed into wisdom. They must be understood, supported and helped to regulate themselves. In a world of online influence and ever earlier exposure to adult realities, she believes schools must work from the pupil out rather than the adult in.
“The adult has not got the answer,” she says. “We have to work with (and in support of) our young people, not impose on them.” Boarding schools, she believes, have a special role because they create close communities in which human connection can be learned and practised. In an age of fragmentation, that matters. “We need to connect meaningfully,” she says.
Lucy recognises that independent schools such as Oakham have a degree of freedom not always available elsewhere. Qualifications still matter and pupils need outcomes that will stand up in the wider world, but there is room to build something richer around those essentials. She speaks positively about Oakham’s broad offering, from A-levels, IB and BTECs to diverse co-curricular opportunities across sport, the arts, leadership and service. Her instinct is that education should be less constrained by narrow subject boundaries and more alive to the skills that transcend them. “For Oakham, it is about adding value: by making the most of our independence, our heritage, our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and our history of thinking a little differently.”
Even with the challenges that come with teaching and leadership in education, Lucy believes there are few careers as important or as rewarding. “The wonderful thing about schools is they are places for people,” she says. “They are deeply human. That is the joy of it.”
That joy has never left her, whether in the classroom, in the sixth form, in headship or in national sport. Education, for Lucy, is meaningful because it deals in possibility. It’s about helping young people to become ready for the next stage of life, not about producing ‘finished products’ but grounded, thoughtful and capable individuals.
For Lucy, returning to the school that helped shape her is not simply a career move. It is a homecoming, a statement of gratitude and a new chapter in the life of one of Rutland’s most respected schools. More than four centuries after Oakham School first opened its doors, she brings with her a rare combination of elite sporting experience, educational leadership and a deeply personal understanding of the school’s character.
“My favourite time as a Head is when you see the pupils graduating at 18,” she says. “In that brief moment, as they walk across the stage, you reflect on their journey. Some find school easy and that’s wonderful. Others will have found it more challenging. But you see them at 18 and you realise that moment is the gift that the career offers, because you realise they are brilliant. Young people are brilliant.”
Lucy Pearson will be in post from September as Headteacher of Oakham School. See www.oakham.rutland.sch.uk.
“We have ‘knowledge,’ in our pocket and access to information more quickly than ever before,” Lucy says.
“But our ability to question what is in front of us has become more important than ever...”
Independent Schools and VAT
The decision of the Labour government to impose VAT on independent school fees has caused widespread dismay in Lincolnshire, Rutland and Stamford. There are around 2,600 independent schools in the UK educating around 615,000 youngsters, or about 7% of British schoolage children.
1,400 schools with over half a million enrolled pupils are allied to the Independent Schools Council, founded in 1974.
The Council says that its members contribute £16.5bn GVA to the country’s finances and provide £574m of bursaries to broaden the demographic of independent schools’ intake.
The Council says that since January 2026, 100 independent schools, educating 25,000 pupils, have closed as a result of VAT and other tax pressures with Chief Executive of the ISC, Julie Robinson, warning of a strong likelihood of more closures in the future.
MP for Rutland & Stamford Alicia Kearns says that Lincolnshire and Rutland is home to more than 10 independent schools, employing 2,000 people. In a statement to the Commons in October 2024 she quoted the Adam Smith Institute research which determined that: “Every child in independent schooling contributes £28,000 to the public finances. The average £2,700 saved on VAT makes a return to the taxpayer of 1,040%. If 5% of independent school pupils leave, the Government will generate £1 billion through this policy. If 10% to 15% of pupils leave, the Government will generate no revenue. If 25% of pupils leave, the Government will lose £1.58 billion.”
Fernando Alonso wears a Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43.
enquiries@crowlandcarpets.co.uk
WELCOME TO PORTFOLIO
There’s something rather special about seeing the place you call home through the eyes of visitors. Recently, we welcomed the in-laws for the weekend, splitting our time between Lincolnshire, Rutland and Stamford, and it reminded me just how fortunate we are to live in such remarkable counties.
What struck them most wasn’t simply the beautiful countryside, the historic market towns or the excellent restaurants — although we enjoyed all of those in abundance — but the warmth of the people.
Everywhere we went, people spoke to one another. Staff in the bars and restaurants we frequented asked after customers by name, strangers exchanged a cheerful “good morning” on the daily dog walk, and conversations seemed to flow naturally wherever we stopped. In a world that can often feel increasingly hurried and disconnected, that sense of community feels genuinely valuable.
Summer, of course, brings out the very best in our area. Gardens are in full bloom, pubs and restaurants are buzzing, and every weekend seems to offer another fête, open garden, concert or outdoor gathering. There’s a relaxed confidence to country life at this time of year — a reminder that luxury is not always found in the fast-paced or extravagant, but often in quality of life, beauty, friendship and time well spent.
It’s easy to take our surroundings for granted when we see them every day, but hosting visitors offered a fresh perspective. Watching others fall in love with the places we know so well reminded me just how proud I am of where we live.
I hope you enjoy similar experiences this summer, introducing others to the wonderful area we are fortunate enough to call home.
Rob Davis Executive Editor, Pride Magazines
AN EXCITING NEW PARTNERSHIP
Breitling and Aston Martin
Images: Calvert Studios.
Breitling has joined Aston Martin and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team as their Official Watch Partner. There are certain partnerships that feel less like a commercial arrangement and more like a natural meeting of minds. The new alliance between Breitling and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team is one such collaboration, bringing together two brands whose histories have been shaped by speed, engineering excellence and timeless design. The partnership begins with the unveiling of the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team edition, a striking new timepiece that also marks Breitling’s return to Formula One.
For enthusiasts of either marque, the relationship feels inevitable. Aston Martin and Breitling have each spent more than a century perfecting their respective crafts, driven by an obsession with speed and an unwavering commitment to style.
Shared Histories of Speed
The roots of both companies stretch back to the earliest years of motoring and aviation. In 1907, Leon Breitling introduced the
Vitesse, a pioneering chronograph capable of measuring speeds up to 250 miles or kilometres per hour. Its remarkable accuracy led to its adoption by Swiss police, who used it to issue some of the world’s earliest speeding fines.
Across the Channel, Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford were establishing their own legacy in Britain. Competing in the Aston Hill Climb near Aston Clinton in Buckinghamshire, their specially prepared car achieved success on the steep chalk climb and inspired the name Aston Martin. Over the decades, both brands evolved into internationally recognised symbols of engineering sophistication and refined luxury.
Aston Martin became synonymous with elegant grand touring cars and motorsport pedigree, producing legendary models such as the DB5, Vantage and Vanquish. Breitling, meanwhile, cemented its reputation for highly technical chronographs designed for pilots, adventurers and professionals who demanded absolute precision.
A Formula 1 Debut
Their paths have crossed repeatedly throughout modern cultural history. In the 1950s, Aston Martin made its Formula One debut
Above: Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team. Georges Kern, CEO, Breitling.
When it appeared on Sean Connery’s wrist in Thunderball (1965) as the first Q-modified gadget watch in the James Bond franchise, it became an emblem of the era.
while racing icons Graham Hill and Jim Clark, both of whom were also qualified pilots, famously wore Breitling Navitimer watches. Originally launched in 1952 as a wrist-worn cockpit instrument for aviators, the Navitimer featured a circular slide rule that allowed pilots to calculate speed, fuel consumption and flight times. It quickly became as useful at the race circuit as it was in the skies.
Then came the 1960s, when both brands achieved cinematic immortality through James Bond. Sean Connery wore a Breitling Top Time in Thunderball, while Aston Martin’s DB5 became perhaps the most famous car in film history after appearing in Goldfinger and later Thunderball. Together they represented the glamour, sophistication and technical ingenuity that defined the era.
Precision and Performance
Today, those shared values continue to unite the two companies.
“Aston Martin builds cars that are as much about presence as performance,” says Georges Kern, Chief Executive Officer of Breitling.
“We share that same heritage of iconic design: every line, finish, and proportion has purpose. Nothing is left to chance.”
Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, believes the partnership reflects a mutual pursuit of excellence.
“Our pursuit of a World Championship demands partners who match our ambition,” he says. “Today, we're proud to welcome Breitling to the team. Beyond a shared heritage, we are united by values that drive everything we do. The precision, craftsmanship and engineering excellence we pursue at Aston Martin Aramco are lived and breathed by Breitling. We look forward to working together.”
Adrian Hallmark, Chief Executive Officer of Aston Martin, also highlighted the historical connection between the two names. “Aston Martin and Breitling have crossed paths at key moments in design and culture,” he says. “The partnership is a perfect showcase of
excellence, design mastery and performance, something that is integral to everything that Aston Martin puts its name to.”
A Watch Inspired by Formula One Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Edition is limited to just 1,959 pieces in tribute to Aston Martin’s first Formula One campaign in 1959. Its lightweight titanium case marks the first time the material has been used on a Navitimer model, while the dial features carbon-fibre-inspired detailing reminiscent of Formula One cockpit construction. Aston Martin Racing Green and vivid lime accents echo the team’s racing livery, creating a watch that feels unmistakably linked to the modern Formula One grid.
The leather strap takes inspiration from racing harnesses and enhanced low-light legibility ensures the chronograph remains functional in any environment. Turning the watch over reveals the Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01 movement through an open sapphire crystal caseback. COSC certified and offering a 70-hour power reserve, the movement has been engineered for absolute precision under pressure.
The specially designed matte black rotor is crafted from tungsten with a durable physical vapour deposition coating and features the Aston Martin Formula One Team logo. Additional engravings include “One of 1959” and the phrase “Instruments for Drivers.” For collectors and motorsport enthusiasts alike, it is likely to become one of the most desirable collaborations in recent years.
A Bold New Chapter
From cockpit instruments to racing chronographs, from Aston Hill to Formula One, Breitling and Aston Martin have spent more than a century pursuing speed in their own distinctive ways. Now, that pursuit enters a bold new chapter together.
www.breitling.com.
LINCOLNSHIRE SHOWGROUND
Celebrity guests, thrilling entertainment and even a Guinness World Record attempt are set to make this year’s Lincolnshire Show one of the most exciting yet.
The county’s biggest celebration of food, farming and the countryside returns to the Lincolnshire Showground on 17th and 18th June 2026, welcoming more than 65,000 visitors across two packed days.
Among the headline attractions are two familiar television faces. JLS singer, presenter and farmer JB Gill will appear on Wednesday 17th June, bringing with him a passion for British farming developed through his own North Kent farm business.
On Thursday 18th June, actor, TV personality and Strictly Come Dancing champion Kelvin Fletcher will visit the show, following the success of ITV’s Fletcher’s Family Farm, which has showcased his family’s rural life.
The White Hart Hotel Main Ring will once again provide spectacular entertainment throughout the event, including a Guinness World Record attempt as competitors race against the clock to assemble and engage a combine harvester header in record time.
Visitors can also look forward to a Polo Chukka featuring Dart Polo versus Sunbrave Polo of India, the Heavy Horse of the Year Show Qualifier, British Show
Jumping and the ever-popular Shetland Pony Grand National.
Elsewhere, highlights include displays from the RAF Falcons, motocross stunts from Squibb Freestyle FMX and performances by the Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue Band.
Returning after its successful debut in 2025 is the Rural Voices Stage, offering expert-led discussions on farming, sustainability and countryside issues.
Charlotte Powell, Chief Executive of the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, says this year’s event will be “bigger and better than ever,” with new attractions, returning favourites and opportunities to celebrate everything that makes Lincolnshire special.
Advanced tickets are on sale now at £28 for adults, £10 for children and £70 for a family ticket, with full details available at www.lincolnshireshow.co.uk.
JB Gill and Kelvin Fletcher will visit the popular county show on Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th June
CHIC Holiday
Effortless beachwear essentials: kaftans, flowing trousers, and chic coverups to elevate your holiday style this season
Cover ups are no longer just a simple layer they are now an essential part of your beach or poolside look. Lightweight kaftans in soft linen or airy chiffon are perfect for comfort and elegance draped over your favourite swimsuit. Flowing trousers and wide-leg palazzos create a relaxed yet sophisticated silhouette that works beautifully for moving from the sand to a casual lunch or evening stroll.
Tunics and embroidered shirts add a touch of luxury while sheer kimonos bring effortless movement and versatility. Mix prints with solids to suit your mood tropical florals add playfulness while pastels and classic white provide understated elegance.
Choosing the right colours ensures that each piece can be combined with others in your wardrobe for maximum impact. Lightweight jumpsuits are also gaining popularity offering a one-piece solution that is both comfortable and stylish.
Practical details are key. Lightweight fabrics with pockets and adjustable ties make wearing cover ups simple and comfortable. Layering is essential throw on a breezy kaftan over your swimwear in the morning then switch to flowing trousers and a tunic for a relaxed lunch or evening stroll. Accessories such as oversized hats stylish sandals and a chic tote instantly elevate the look. Scarves and delicate jewellery can also transform a simple cover up into a complete outfit that feels considered and polished.
Sustainable fabrics are increasingly popular organic cottons eco-friendly linens and recycled materials allow you to look stylish while making thoughtful choices. From relaxed elegance to bold statement pieces versatile cover ups mean you are always ready for whatever your holiday brings.
Investing in well-chosen pieces makes your beach wardrobe functional flattering and effortlessly stylish. Kaftans trousers tunics flowing skirts and jumpsuits have evolved into the cornerstone of any summer-ready ensemble combining comfort with timeless fashion. Thoughtful layering and smart accessories ensure that each outfit feels personal and put together while remaining light and easy to wear.
Right: Dea Kudibal Sabrina paisley print kaftan style silk dress grand paisley ocean, £429, www.sisteronline.co.uk. Danse des Vagues beach cover up, £167, www.lisecharmel.com. ti Cuiti floral print maxi kaftan, £110, www.monsoon.co.uk.
Left: Aqua pebbles silk kaftan, £195, www.sophiaalexia.com.
Bahabini mini kaftan dress in Amalfi print, £79, www.outdazl.com.
Side tie kaftan dress white black embroidered, £139, www.boden.com.
Below: Palmaria caftan in crème rouge, £299, www.maryanmehlhorn.com.
mytheresa.com
SUMMER SHADE SUBTLE SHINE
Black and natural raffia sun hats bring effortless Riviera elegance, offering chic sun protection with sculptural brims, textured finishes and timeless neutral tones perfect for stylish summer days at home or abroad.
£195, mulberry.com
Metallic gold and silver kitten heel mules offer understated glamour, combining comfort with elegance. Perfect for summer occasions, they add a refined shimmer to both daytime looks and evening ensembles.
bottegaveneta.com
Relaxed Elegance for Warm Days
STYLE FOR MEN
ORLEBAR BROWN DEFINES SUMMER SOPHISTICATION with relaxed yet tailored menswear perfect for holidays or sunny weekends. From impeccably cut swim shorts and day shorts to crisp linen shirts and lightweight trousers, all balancing style and comfort effortlessly.
Polos, jackets, and accessories complete the seasonal wardrobe, offering versatility that transitions seamlessly from poolside to evening drinks. Classic prints, subtle patterns, and breathable fabrics ensure every look feels polished, relaxed, and distinctly Orlebar Brown.
Left Hand Page: The Davey sunglasses in tortoise shell/agave, £295. Bulldog swim shorts with exclusive carnival print in vermillion, £295. Ridley linen shirt, relaxed fit in cream and tarragon green, £345. Ridley open resort placket shirt with tonal edge stitch in macaron pink, £345. Alex cotton linen trouser in Thasos Beach, £345. Velo Italian silk scarf, white sand, £150. Right Hand Page: Alvaro cotton linen jacket with twoway zip in sabbia, £595. Canet ribbed stitch knit polo shirt in white sand, £395. Laurent bermuda shorts in Thasos Beach, £295. Maitan, soft seersucker, capri collar shirt in vermillion, £345. Larson O.B stripe shoe you can swim in, white/orange/aquamarine, £195.
CLASSIC FIREPLACES
If you’re seeking to elevate the heart of your home with both elegance and warmth, look no further than Classic Fireplaces in Market Deeping. With over 40 years’ experience in design, manufacture and installation, this family-run specialist brings a wealth of craftsmanship and trusted knowledge to every project.
As well as bespoke surrounds, the company offers an extensive selection of premium fires and stoves. What truly sets Classic Fireplaces apart is its bespoke manufacturing capability. Each fireplace surround is made to order, allowing customers to choose the exact dimensions, materials and finishes that best suit their interior. This attention to detail ensures every installation is perfectly tailored, becoming a beautiful and enduring feature of the home. Call 01778 347267 or see www.classicfireplaces.co.uk.
LAKE COMO
Striking landscape remains one of the world’s most luxurious destinations
Set against the dramatic foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como has long been one of Europe’s most glamorous and romantic holiday destinations. With its elegant villas, charming lakeside towns and spectacular mountain scenery, it combines Italian sophistication with breathtaking natural beauty. For generations it has attracted aristocrats, artists, film stars and discerning travellers seeking tranquillity, culture and understated luxury, yet despite its reputation for exclusivity, Lake Como remains wonderfully welcoming and deeply authentic.
Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, around an hour from Milan, Lake Como is shaped like an inverted Y, with three long branches stretching into the mountains. It is one of the deepest lakes in Europe and perhaps the most visually striking, with steep wooded slopes descending dramatically into sparkling blue water. Around its shoreline sit picturesque villages and grand historic estates, many framed by cypress trees, olive groves and flowering gardens.
The scenery is central to Lake Como’s enduring appeal. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy view, whether it is a tiny harbour filled with wooden boats, a terraced hillside covered in vines or a grand villa reflected in the still waters of the lake. Throughout the day the colours constantly shift, from the soft haze of early morning to the golden light that settles over the mountains in the evening. Even in the height of summer there is an atmosphere of calm elegance rather than frantic tourism.
One of the pleasures of visiting Lake Como is simply exploring the lakeside towns that each possess their own distinct character. Como itself, at the southern end of the lake, is a lively and sophisticated city known for its silk production, elegant shopping streets and impressive cathedral. Bellagio, often described as the pearl of the lake, sits at the point where the lake divides into its three branches and is famed for its cobbled lanes, luxurious hotels and sweeping views across the water. Elsewhere, villages such as Varenna, Menaggio and Tremezzo offer quieter charms, with pastelcoloured buildings, waterfront cafés and flower filled promenades.
Travel on the lake is an experience in itself. Ferries and water taxis glide between towns throughout the day, allowing visitors to admire the landscape from the water just as generations of travellers have done before. There is something timeless about arriving by boat at a grand villa or stepping ashore beside an ancient church framed by mountains. The lake encourages visitors to slow down and savour every detail.
Luxury is woven naturally into the atmosphere of Lake Como, although rarely in an ostentatious way. Historic grand hotels line parts of the shoreline, many dating back to the nineteenth century when European nobility first discovered the region. These elegant properties offer manicured gardens, refined dining rooms and terraces overlooking the water where guests can linger over aperitifs as the sun sets behind the mountains. Private villas, many hidden behind stone walls and shaded by ancient trees, add to the sense of exclusivity and romance.
“It is a destination where nature still feels pristine, where silence is broken only by the rustle of palms and the sound of waves gently reaching the shore...”
The area’s cultural heritage is equally rich. For centuries Lake Como has inspired writers, composers and artists who found inspiration in its peaceful beauty. The composer Franz Liszt, the novelist Stendhal and the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley all admired the lake, while modern filmmakers continue to use it as a backdrop for cinema thanks to its timeless elegance. Walking through the gardens of historic villas such as Villa Carlotta or Villa del Balbianello, visitors encounter ornate architecture, sculptures and botanical collections that reflect centuries of wealth and artistic patronage.
Italian culture is deeply embedded in daily life around the lake. Mornings begin with espresso in lively cafés while afternoons stretch lazily into evenings filled with conversation, wine and long dinners beside the water. The pace is unhurried and sociable, encouraging visitors to embrace the pleasures of good food, beautiful surroundings and simple rituals.
Above: View of the city Mezzegra, Via Statale.
Markets selling local produce, artisan shops and family-run trattorias ensure that despite the lake’s glamorous reputation, authenticity remains at its heart. Outdoor activities also play an important role in the Lake Como experience. The surrounding mountains provide opportunities for hiking and cycling, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints high above the lake. Sailing, paddleboarding and swimming are popular during the warmer months, while nearby alpine regions offer skiing during winter. This combination of relaxation and activity broadens the lake’s appeal beyond romance alone.
Perhaps what makes Lake Como so memorable is the way it balances grandeur with intimacy. It is undeniably luxurious, yet it never feels artificial. Beneath the elegant hotels and celebrity associations lies a region shaped by centuries of local tradition and close connection to the landscape.
Top: Trattoria in Bellagio. Villa Carlotta.
Food &Drink
The cuisine of Lake Como is rooted in northern Italian tradition, shaped by the lake itself and the surrounding Alpine landscape.
Freshwater fish such as perch, trout and whitefish appear regularly on local menus, often served simply with herbs, olive oil and polenta, a regional staple. Risotto is another defining dish, especially risotto al pesce persico, made with delicately fried perch fillets from the lake.
The area’s mountain influence brings rich cheeses, cured meats and hearty rustic dishes, balanced by elegant Lombard cooking and excellent local wines.
Olive groves thrive in the lake’s mild microclimate, producing light, fragrant oils used throughout the region. In lakeside towns such as Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, visitors will also discover refined restaurants serving handmade pasta,
seasonal vegetables and sophisticated interpretations of traditional recipes.
Dining beside the water is an essential part of the Lake Como experience, whether enjoying a leisurely espresso in a sunny piazza or a candlelit dinner overlooking the lake at sunset. The food reflects the region perfectly: relaxed, stylish and unmistakably Italian.
Attractions
Bellagio: Often described as the jewel of Lake Como, Bellagio sits at the point where the lake divides into two branches. Its elegant waterfront, narrow cobbled lanes and colourful villas make it one of the area’s most photographed destinations.
Varenna: Quieter and more romantic than some of the larger resorts, Varenna is known for its pastelcoloured houses and peaceful lakeside promenade. Visitors can explore Villa Monastero and its spectacular botanical gardens overlooking the water.
Menaggio: On the western shore, Menaggio combines lively cafés and grand lakeside hotels with easy access to hiking trails and ferries across the lake. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it popular with both walkers and families.
Villa del Balbianello: Perhaps Lake Como’s most famous landmark, this historic villa stands on a wooded peninsula near Lenno. Surrounded by terraced gardens, it has appeared in films including Casino Royale and Star Wars.
Como: The city of Como offers elegant shopping streets, impressive architecture and a beautiful cathedral at its centre. A funicular railway climbs from the city to Brunate, providing panoramic views across the lake and mountains.
Tremezzo: Tremezzo is home to the magnificent Villa Carlotta, renowned for its art collections and beautifully landscaped gardens filled with azaleas, camellias and exotic plants. The lakeside setting is especially spectacular in spring and early summer.
Villa Melzi Gardens: Set on the shoreline in Bellagio, the gardens of Villa Melzi are among Lake Como’s most peaceful attractions. Pathways lined with exotic trees, sculptures and colourful flowers lead visitors beside the water, creating spectacular views across the lake.
Accommodation
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
One of Lake Como’s most iconic addresses, Grand Hotel Tremezzo has welcomed glamorous guests since 1910. Overlooking Bellagio and the Grigne mountains, the hotel combines Belle Époque elegance with fivestar luxury, including floating swimming pools, private boats and a worldclass spa. Rooms and suites are richly furnished, while its lakeside terraces offer unforgettable sunset views.
Guide price around €1,200/night. www.grandhoteltremezzo.com.
Villa d’Este
Set within 25 acres of landscaped gardens in Cernobbio, Villa d’Este is widely regarded as one of Europe’s finest hotels. Originally a sixteenthcentury villa, it has hosted royalty, celebrities and politicians for decades. Guests can enjoy opulent suites, exquisite dining and the hotel’s famous floating pool on the lake.
Guide price approximately €1,500/night. www.villadeste.com.
Mandarin Oriental
Occupying a secluded lakeside setting in Blevio, the Mandarin Oriental brings contemporary luxury to one of Lake Como’s most historic estates.
The hotel combines elegant nineteenthcentury villas with sleek modern interiors, offering guests private terraces, fine dining and an awardwinning spa overlooking the water. Beautiful gardens descend directly to the lake, while the peaceful atmosphere provides a more exclusive alternative to the busier resorts.
Guide price approximately €1,300/night. www.mandarinoriental.com/lake-como.
Travel Arrangements
Travelling to Lake Como from the UK is straightforward, with direct flights available from several regional airports including London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham to Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate.
Flight times are approximately two hours, with return fares typically starting from around £120 per person in low season, rising considerably during summer.
From Milan, Lake Como can be reached in around an hour by private transfer, hire car or regular train services.
Italian is the official language, although English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas.
The local currency is the Euro, and major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, though carrying some cash is useful for cafés, ferries and smaller shops.
Getting around the lake is part of the experience itself. Ferries connect many of the principal towns including Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio, offering spectacular scenery from the water. Private boat hire is also popular, while taxis can be expensive.
Visitors should expect a relaxed but stylish atmosphere. Smartcasual dress is appreciated in restaurants and luxury hotels, especially during the evening.
Italians tend to dine later than in the UK, with dinner often beginning after 7.30pm. A polite greeting when entering shops or restaurants is customary and always appreciated.
Above: Grand Hotel Tremezzo.
Left: The grounds of Villa d’Este.
YOUR NEW FRIENDLY LOCAL TRAVEL EXPERTS…
OPEN NOW IN LOUTH, KIRTON NEAR BOSTON & LINCOLN, OPENING SOON IN SPALDING
Your new friendly local travel experts, Your Dreams Travel, are now open in Louth, Kirton (Boston), and will open soon in Lincoln and Spalding on high streets near you!
Our 24 members of staff have over 500 years of combined experience in the industry. The same familiar faces you know and trust are now setting off on an exciting new journey of their own - wherever you dream of going, we’re here to help you get there!
We’re more than travel agents—we’re trusted advisors, problem-solvers, and dream-makers. By truly listening to our customers, we create personalised journeys that reflect their needs, preferences, and aspirations. With expert destination knowledge, strong supplier relationships, and access to exceptional deals, we aim to deliver seamless, stress-free travel experiences every time.
We are a travel agency group driven by one clear purpose: turning your holiday dreams into reality.
Enjoy a complimentary bottle of Prosecco with every new holiday booking! Simply quote “BUBBLES” at the time of booking— because every great getaway deserves a celebratory pop!
Visit our website or follow us on Facebook, scan the following QR code:
ON SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA AT MABULA LODGE
10 days now from £2,720pp SAVE UP TO 15%*
Departing August 2026 to December 2028
On this immersive, family friendly tour, you’ll get the chance to really settle into your breathtaking surroundings as you spend a blissful, allinclusive stay at the Mabula Game Lodge. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the UNESCOlisted Waterberg Mountains, the Mabula Private Game Reserve boasts diverse landscapes and habitats, perfect for the freeroaming 'Big Five' and other wonderful creatures, making this a perfect family friendly safari holiday that you’ll never forget!
n Seven nights’ allinclusive, staying at the Mabula Game Lodge.
n Six safaris into the Mabula Private Game Reserve.
n Traditional bush lunch and a stargazing session.
n Seven breakfasts, lunches and dinners with daily high teas.
n Wildlife talk, bush walk & visit to the Hornbill Project.
n Return flights and comfortable, airconditioned transfers.
Eastgate, Louth LN11 9PL
01507 665753
PUGLIA AND THE SOUTH: UNDISCOVERED ITALY
Departing August 2026 to October 2027
8 days now from £1,113pp SAVE UP TO 15%*
Enjoy rest and relaxation on the shores of the Adriatic, and take in the oftenoverlooked delights of Italy’s sunkissed southern 'high heel'. Full of highlights, this hugely enjoyable holiday in Puglia is based on the shores of the Adriatic and lifts the veil on a fascinating region of Southern Italy. Included is the opportunity to discover Castellana's famous cave network, wineproducing Locorotondo and elegant Martina Franca, on an optional excursion, complete a wonderful stay.
n Seven nights' dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation at the fourstar Hotel del Levante, Torre Canne.
n Spend seven nights beside the brilliant blue Adriatic Sea.
n Tours of Lecce and the cave network at Matera.
n A tour of Apulia, Cisternino, Ostuni and Alberobello.
n Discover the UNESCOlisted Matera's Sassi cavedwellings.
n Witness hilltop Ostuni’s white walls gleaming in the sun.
n Return flights to Bari. Coach travel &transfers throughout.
Market Place, Spalding PE11 1SL 01775 888561
spalding@yourdreamstravel.co.uk
TOYOTA’S UNSTOPPABLE
LAND CRUISER
What happens when an immovable force meets an unstoppable object?
If the unstoppable object in question is Toyota’s Land Cruiser, chances are you just drive over it. At £81,000 it ought to be luxurious, rugged... but most of all, brave enough to compete with Land Rover’s Defender
Words: Rob Davis.
Land Cruiser or Defender? It’s a more difficult choice than you might think. When Land Rover revealed the ‘new’ Defender in 2020, some initially dismissed it as just another luxury SUV, lacking its forebears’ inclination to carry hay bales and have its interior hosed out.
The thing is, any farmer or landowner who has that use case now invariably has a telehandler or a Gator-style UTV. And if they’re happy to have a single ‘dirty work’ vehicle, there are a range of pick-ups, most with a bit of luxury about them these days. The use case of the old Defender just isn’t there any more. Defender’s prowess off-road surprised nobody, but the fact that it was so very good on-road was a very pleasant surprise all round.
It’s been a runaway sales success for JLR, the highest-selling product in the company’s portfolio, selling around 115,000 units a year. So anyone competing against it is going to live in its shadow, right?
Not necessarily. Toyota’s Land Cruiser is arguably its most direct competitor, and dates back to 1951, and with 14 major generations sharing the same name. Over 11.3m Land Cruisers have been sold and it’s favoured by organisations like the United Nations, Red Cross, and Médecins Sans Frontières.
The new Land Cruiser and the Defender both have plenty of off-road capability, very comfortable interiors, plenty of tech and tonnes of space... worldwide both are available with seven seats too, although the UK market favours Land Cruiser’s five-seat version.
The two arch-rivals are the same, but different... Defender is the more urban-looking of the two, but the Land Cruiser is just as charming, albeit in a more utilitarian way. Our test car came in a metallic sand shade, which is quite retro and divided opinion: I loved it as it suits the muscular vehicle; but some colleagues reckoned it was dated.
What’s not dated though is the off-road tech, and you can’t even say that the Land Cruiser is analogue in its off-road execution, like the Ineos Grenadier. The latter is an also-ran in this category, because it’s just too uncivilised on-road, and too compromised day-to-day compared to the Toyota and Land Rover.
The Land Cruiser has a dial to select on-road modes (Sport feels a bit redundant) and offroad terrain, but you can use a simple rocker switch to activate low-range gears, and push-buttons to lock centre and rear diffs, activate hill-descent control and detach the car’s stabiliser bars, enabling greater axle articulation.
For serious off-roading, Land Cruiser requires a bit more intervention than the ‘just let me handle it’ Defender. Does that make it better off-road? Perhaps, in extremis.
However, I’d point out that if you’re driving somewhere that even a Defender might not handle, you probably shouldn’t be there. Also, a good off-road driver in a less well-specified 4x4 will always be better than a brilliant 4x4 being piloted by a novice off-roader... also, your choice of tyres makes a huge difference.
MOTORS
On-road, Defender rides beautifully on the 110’s air suspension, but the Land Cruiser, whilst a large vehicle, is still beautifully set up, with body roll controlled, and suspension comfortable but with a nicely firm edge.
Whilst the Defender is available with a four-cylinder PHEV-augmented engine, it otherwise relies on six or eight-cylinder engines. Land Cruiser, meanwhile, is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel mild-hybrid unit. Does that make it underpowered?
You’d think so on paper, but actually it’s a rather nice engine, with decent torque. It’s a bit gruff, but in a charming way, and whilst the Land Cruiser is never going to be a sports car (the Defender D250 reaches 60mph in 7.9 seconds compared to the Land Cruiser’s 12.3 seconds), its performance is still sufficient for overtaking.
What did impress me after a week in the Land Cruiser is its economy. The diesel engine settles to 1,500rpm on an A-road or motorway, and to a relatively quiet cruise. My average was 32mpg out of town, which is actually more than Toyota’s official WLTP figure.
Inside it’s more of the same... conventional compared to modern cars (especially EVs) which do everything via a touchscreen. The Land Rover and Land Cruiser each use physical controls for heating and off-road controls.
Land Rover’s touchscreen dominates the interior a bit more but the Land Cruiser’s driving position really is delightful. You sit high up, it’s all very chunky, and build quality is superb. The seats are supportive and have a very soft, supple leather as standard. Only one interior colour is available so you’d better like black, and there’s no multi-colour ambient lighting (that’s anathema to what the Land Cruiser is), but as a place to spend time it’s practical, logical and definitely worthy of the car’s price tag.
At nearly £81,000, the Land Cruiser is over £5,000 more expensive than a Land Rover 110 HSE. So which is better? There’s nothing between them when judged with your head. This is definitely a case of which appeals more to your heart: the chunky, endearing Land Cruiser with its no-nonsense approach, or Defender, the fashionable, modern iteration of a British motoring legend... on balance, I think I lean more towards the latter.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Invincible 2.8litre MHEV
Price: £80,945.
Engine: 2.8 Diesel 48V, automatic, fulltime 4x4 with high/low range gears.
Performance: 105mph, 060mph 12.3secs.
Economy: 26mpg, CO2 281g/km.
Equipment: Toyota Connect with wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Heated and ventilated front and rear seats, full leather. Heated steering wheel, JBLbranded hifi, power tailgate, electric panoramic roof, electrically adjustable seats. Head up display, 360° camera, adaptive cruise.
Sport A Summer of
Wimbledon, The Open and the British Grand Prix
There is something uniquely British about the sporting season in high summer. Strawberries and cream on Henman Hill, champagne beside the fairways at Royal Birkdale and the thunder of Formula One engines across Silverstone all combine to create a social calendar as important as the sporting contests themselves. Across June and July, Britain becomes host to some of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, attracting millions of television viewers and hundreds of thousands of spectators.
Wimbledon
The Championships at Wimbledon remain the jewel in Britain’s sporting crown. First staged in 1877, Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and the only Grand Slam still played on grass courts. Held over two weeks at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in southwest London, the tournament welcomes 128 competitors in both the Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Singles draws, alongside doubles, mixed doubles and junior competitions.
Last year’s singles champions were Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Świątek, with Świątek securing her first Wimbledon title in emphatic fashion.
The tournament culminates with the Ladies’ Singles Final on the Saturday and the Gentlemen’s Final on the Sunday, watched by a worldwide television audience of millions. In Britain, coverage is broadcast extensively by the BBC, with Centre Court matches becoming an essential part of the summer schedule.
Wimbledon is as famous for its traditions as it is for its tennis. Players continue to wear all-white clothing, Royal Box appearances are
carefully scrutinised and spectators consume around 140,000 portions of strawberries and cream during the fortnight. The famous dessert has been associated with Wimbledon for generations and remains one of the most charming rituals in British sport.
Celebrity spotting has become part of the appeal too, with actors, musicians, royalty and sports stars filling Centre Court throughout the championships. The atmosphere combines sporting intensity with a distinctly elegant social scene, helped along by glasses of Pimms and immaculate summer tailoring.
Attendance across the fortnight regularly exceeds half a million visitors, while over a million people typically apply for tickets through the famous Wimbledon ballot system. For those without tickets, the tradition of “The Queue” still offers the chance to gain entry on the day, often after an overnight wait in Wimbledon Park.
Prize money continues to rise each year, with singles winners receiving around £3 million each. Yet despite the money and global attention, Wimbledon somehow retains a distinctly English charm that no other sporting event can quite replicate.
The Open Championship, Royal Birkdale Golf’s oldest major championship returns to Royal Birkdale in Southport this summer, bringing the world’s finest golfers back to one of England’s greatest links courses. First played in 1860, The Open Championship is steeped in history and remains the ultimate test of links golf, where wind, weather and patience matter as much as power.
Opposite: Scottie Scheffler, 2025 winner of the 153rd Open Championship, placed number one at Royal Portrush Golf Club in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
The tournament features a field of 156 competitors from around the world, all hoping to lift the famous Claret Jug after four rounds of championship golf. After two rounds, the field is reduced by the traditional halfway cut before the final weekend decides the Champion Golfer of the Year.
Last year’s Open champion was Scottie Scheffler, who claimed victory at Royal Portrush with a dominant performance to secure his first Claret Jug and fourth major title.
Royal Birkdale is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging venues on The Open rota, with towering dunes and narrow fairways demanding absolute precision. The course has previously crowned champions including Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Jordan Spieth.
The Open attracts more than 250,000 spectators during championship week, many arriving not only for the golf but also for the social atmosphere around the hospitality pavilions and grandstands. Corporate entertaining has become a major part of the event, with premium dining experiences and champagne terraces overlooking the course.
Sky Sports provides live coverage throughout all four days, with highlights broadcast on the BBC each evening. For spectators attending in person, practice days earlier in the week often provide the best opportunity to watch players up close in a more relaxed environment.
Formula One at Silverstone
If Wimbledon represents tradition and The Open offers refinement, Silverstone delivers pure spectacle. The British Grand Prix has been held at Silverstone since the very first Formula One World Championship race in 1950 and remains one of the highlights of the modern sporting calendar.
Twenty Formula One drivers representing ten teams compete across practice sessions, qualifying and Sunday’s Grand Prix itself. The circuit’s sweeping corners at Maggotts and Becketts are considered among the greatest sequences in world motorsport and offer some of the best viewing for spectators.
Last year’s British Grand Prix winner was Britain’s own Lando Norris, who delighted the home crowd by taking victory for McLaren in front of record attendances at Silverstone.
The popularity of Formula One has exploded in recent years and Silverstone now attracts crowds of more than 450,000 across the race weekend, making it one of the largest sporting events in Britain. Fans arrive from across Europe, many camping trackside for the full weekend.
The British Grand Prix has become as much a celebrity and lifestyle event as a sporting contest, with concerts, luxury hospitality suites and famous faces appearing throughout the paddock. Sky Sports broadcasts every session live, while Channel 4 continues to provide highlights coverage for terrestrial viewers.
The World Cup
This summer also sees the FIFA World Cup continuing in North America, ensuring football remains impossible to escape entirely. Argentina arrive as defending champions following their victory in the last tournament, while England supporters will once again hope for success on the international stage. Matches will be broadcast live across the BBC and ITV.
Formula One British Grand Prix, Silverstone, 3rd–5th July, www.silverstone.co.uk. The Championships, Wimbledon, 29th June–12th July, www.wimbledon.com. The Open Championship, Royal Birkdale, 16th–19th July, www.theopen.com.
Jannik Sinner accepts the silvergilt cup from The Princess of Wales.
Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek, 2025 Wimbledon winners.
The Natural World
As summer reaches its height, the countryside comes alive with colour, birdsong and wildlife. From flower-filled meadows and ancient woodland to peaceful waterways and thriving wetlands
July is one of the richest months in the countryside calendar. Hedgerows are heavy with growth, fields shimmer beneath warm skies and the natural world seems alive with movement and colour from dawn until dusk. Midsummer reveals nature at its most abundant, offering a season filled with birdsong, wildflowers and thriving wildlife.
Wildflowers & Meadows
By July, roadside verges, meadows and grassy banks are transformed into ribbons of colour. Wildflowers reach their peak during the height of summer, creating a patchwork of purples, yellows, whites and pinks that attract insects in remarkable numbers. Oxeye daisies sway among tall grasses while knapweed, field scabious and red clover provide a valuable source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Traditional hay meadows are especially beautiful at this time of year. Once common across the countryside, these rich grasslands support an extraordinary variety of plant life and remain one of the most important habitats for pollinators. Warm weather encourages clouds of butterflies to dance above the flowers, with species such as meadow brown, gatekeeper and common blue frequently seen fluttering between blooms.
The gentle hum of insects is one of the defining sounds of July. Bees move tirelessly from flower to flower while dragonflies patrol sunlit edges of long grass.
Woodland & Trees
Woodland in July offers welcome shade and coolness beneath dense green canopies. Mature trees are in full leaf and ancient hedgerows provide shelter for wildlife seeking refuge from the heat of the day. Oak, ash and beech trees stand rich with summer foliage while silver birch catches the sunlight with its pale bark and delicate leaves. >>
>> Woodland floors are quieter now than during spring, though there is still plenty to discover. Ferns spread across damp ground and foxgloves continue to flower in clearings and along paths. Young squirrels dart through branches collecting early seeds while deer often emerge cautiously during the cooler hours of morning and evening.
Hedgerows are especially important during midsummer. Hawthorn and elder begin to develop berries that will sustain birds later in the year, while thick vegetation provides nesting cover and protection for small mammals. Brambles start to flower, promising blackberries by late summer and attracting insects in impressive numbers.
Birdlife in July
July is a busy month for bird life as fledglings continue to appear across gardens, fields and open countryside. Young birds are often seen perched awkwardly on fences or fluttering uncertainly through hedgerows while attentive parents remain close by with a constant supply of food.
Swallows and house martins sweep gracefully through summer skies hunting insects above farmland and waterways, whilst skylarks continue to sing above open fields while blackbirds and thrushes can still be heard during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk. Birds of prey are also easier to spot in warm weather, circling high above open land on rising currents of air.
Wildlife & Insects
Warm July evenings bring increased activity from mammals and insects. Rabbits emerge cautiously to graze while foxes begin to roam along field edges and quiet lanes after sunset. Bats can often be seen darting through twilight skies hunting moths and midges with astonishing speed and agility.
Butterflies are among the stars of midsummer. Peacock, red admiral and painted lady butterflies add flashes of colour to gardens and wild spaces, while bees continue their vital work among flowering plants. Ladybirds, shield bugs and grasshoppers all thrive during periods of warm weather. Dragonflies and damselflies are especially active in July. Their shimmering wings catch the sunlight as they hover above reeds and grasses, providing one of the most striking spectacles of the season.
Waterways & Wetlands
Ponds, streams and wetlands are full of life during midsummer. Reeds sway gently at the water's edge while water lilies spread broad green leaves across still surfaces. Frogs and toads remain active in damp margins and fish can often be glimpsed beneath clear water in bright sunlight.
Wetlands provide essential habitat for insects and birds alike. Herons stand motionless in shallow water while ducks guide nearly grown ducklings through sheltered pools and channels. Reed beds offer nesting places and protection for smaller birds hidden among the dense vegetation. On warm evenings, waterways become peaceful places alive with sound. The splash of fish, the buzz of insects and the soft rustle of reeds combine to create a calm and timeless atmosphere that captures the very essence of an English summer.
Heroic Hedgerows
Hedgerows are among the most important and distinctive features of the British countryside, shaping the landscape while supporting an extraordinary range of wildlife. Across the UK there are more than 500,000 miles of hedgerows, with England home to some of the highest hedge densities anywhere in the world. In fact, England’s hedgerows are extensive enough to circle the Earth ten times.
More than 40% of Britain’s hedges are considered ancient or species rich, many dating back to before the eighteenth century Enclosure Acts. Some are believed to be over 900 years old. Hawthorn is the most common hedgerow shrub, though older hedges often include blackthorn, hazel, field maple and dogwood.
Hedgerows are vital habitats for wildlife, supporting over 2,000 species including 600 plant species, 1,500 insects, 65 bird species and 20 mammal species. They provide shelter, nesting sites and important wildlife corridors, allowing creatures such as bats and dormice to move safely through the countryside.
Their environmental value is equally significant. Hedgerows help reduce soil erosion, filter pollution, absorb carbon and provide natural shelter for livestock during harsh weather. They also play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and protecting biodiversity.
Despite their importance, more than 118,000 miles of hedgerow have been lost since the 1950s, largely due to agricultural intensification. Restoration efforts are now under way, with plans to create or restore tens of thousands of kilometres of hedgerows over the coming decades.
Almanac
July
Zodiac: Cancer until 22nd July, then Leo, both associated with warmth, loyalty and a love of home and celebration.
Birthstone: Ruby, symbolising passion, protection and prosperity.
Notable Dates: 4th July: Independence Day in the United States. 7th July: World Chocolate Day. 15th July: St Swithin’s Day. 30th July: International Friendship Day.
In The Garden: Roses at their peak, lavender ready for cutting, deadhead borders and water regularly in dry spells.
Seasonal Table: Cherries, raspberries, peas, broad beans, new potatoes and summer salads.
On The Farm: Haymaking continues, wheat begins to ripen, sheep shearing underway, and long days keep farmers busy from dawn until dusk.
ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY
Folklore: July in Britain carries echoes of ancient midsummer traditions, when communities gathered to celebrate warmth, abundance and light. Although the summer solstice falls in June, its spirit lingers into July with village fetes, church fairs and garden parties. St Swithin’s Day on 15th July is steeped in folklore, with the belief that rain on this day foretells forty days of wet weather. Lammas preparations begin towards the end of the month, marking the first wheat harvest and the baking of ceremonial loaves. In many rural areas, agricultural shows take place, celebrating livestock, crafts and local produce, continuing traditions that date back centuries. Coastal towns embrace regattas and maritime festivals, often accompanied by brass bands and evening fireworks. July is also the season for Wimbledon, a thoroughly British institution combining sport, strawberries and a sense of occasion.
Altogether, the month reflects a gentle blend of heritage and leisure, rooted in the rhythms of the countryside and community life.
IN OTHER WORDS
“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.”
Helen Keller, author and disability rights advocate
WEATHER WATCH
Daytime highs average 21 to 23 degrees, with overnight lows around 12 degrees. Rainfall is typically 50 to 60 millimetres. Sunrise is around 4.45am, sunset near 9.20pm, giving over 16 hours of daylight.
THE BBC PROMS
The BBC Proms began in 1895, founded by impresario Robert Newman and conductor Sir Henry Wood, who wanted to make classical music accessible to a wider audience rather than just London’s social elite.
Their idea was simple but revolutionary: audiences could attend inexpensive ‘promenade concerts,’ standing in the arena and moving freely rather than sitting formally in expensive seats. The concerts were first held at Queen’s Hall in London, with Sir Henry Wood conducting many of the performances himself for almost half a century. The Proms quickly became known for introducing audiences to new music alongside popular classical favourites. During the Second World War, Queen’s Hall was destroyed during the Blitz in 1941, forcing the festival to relocate to the Royal Albert Hall, where it remains today.
In 1927, the BBC took over management of the Proms, helping the festival grow into an internationally respected celebration of classical music.
ON YOUR TV AT THE CINEMA IN THE CHARTS
July 1965: The Rolling Stones released (ICan’t Get No_
Satisfaction. July 1973: Pink Floyd release Dark Side of the Moon. July 1977: The Eagles release Hotel California, a title track of their new album.
July 1966: England’s World Cup 42 Victory at Wembley. “They think it’s all over… it is now!”
July 1969: Millions of British viewers stayed awake to watch Neil Armstrong become the first man on the Moon.
July 1975: Jaws opens in UK cinemas with its iconic tense strings. July 1993: Jurassic Park reaches UK cinemas bringing Michael Crichton’s novel to the big screen.
TRIVIA, FOLKLORE AND HISTORY
FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN JULY
HATCHED, MATCHED & DISPATCHED
Hatched: Princess Diana born 1st July 1961. Author J K Rowling born 31st July 1965.
Matched: David and Victoria Beckham married 4th July 1999 at Luttrellstown Castle in Ireland and remain one of Britain’s most enduring celebrity couples.
Dispatched: Singer Amy Winehouse died 23rd July 2011 at the age of just 27. Jane Austen died 18th July 1817, aged 41.
‘OWZAT?
Cricket has long been woven into the fabric of the English summer, and July is traditionally one of the sport’s busiest and most atmospheric months. County Championship matches, Test cricket and limitedovers competitions draw spectators to grounds from Lord’s and The Oval to village greens across the country. Thought to have originated in southeast England during the 16th century, cricket became Britain’s national summer sport by the Victorian era. Today, the England and Wales Cricket Board estimates there are more than 6,500 cricket clubs across England and Wales.
WHAT’S COMING UP
ON THIS DAY
JULY IN HISTORY
1st July 1916
The Battle of the Somme, one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the First World War, was fought by the armies of the British Empire and the French Republic against the German Empire.
1st July 1967
Colour television officially launches in the UK, marking a major shift in home entertainment as viewers begin to experience programmes in full colour for the first time, transforming the way families gather around the television.
5th July 1948
The National Health Service is founded, offering free healthcare at the point of use and becoming one of Britain’s most significant post war achievements, reshaping daily life for millions across the country.
13th July 1985
Simultaneous Live Aid concerts in London and Philadelphia raised millions for famine relief in Ethiopia and became one of the most famous music events in history.
4th July 2012
The Higgs Boson was discovered, with CERN’s announcement confirming what became regarded as a crucial part of the Standard Model of particle physics.
WIMBLEDON TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS
First held in 1877, Wimbledon is the world’s oldest tennis tournament and one of Britain’s most cherished sporting traditions.
Officially known as The Championships, it takes place each summer at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in southwest London. It is the only Grand Slam still played on grass courts, giving matches their distinctive fast pace and low bounce.
What began with just 22 gentlemen competing for a silver cup and 12 guineas has grown into a global sporting spectacle. Today, Wimbledon attracts more than 500,000 spectators during its fortnight, while around 2,000 competitors take part across singles, doubles, mixed doubles, junior and wheelchair events. Legends including Björn Borg, Martina Navratilova, Roger Federer and Serena Williams have all become synonymous with Wimbledon success. Federer holds the men’s record with eight singles titles, while Navratilova won the ladies’ singles nine times.
The tournament lasts two weeks each July. Men’s singles matches are played over five sets, while women’s singles are best of three. Wimbledon is famous for its traditions too, from strict allwhite clothing rules to strawberries and cream, with the Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Finals bringing the tournament to its dramatic conclusion.
GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED
First staged in 1993 by Lord March, now the Duke of Richmond, the Goodwood Festival of Speed has become one of the world’s greatest celebrations of motorsport and automotive engineering. Held each summer at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, the event attracts more than 200,000 visitors across four days. At its heart is the famous hill climb, a 1.16mile course where historic racing cars have all, competed against the clock. The festival is renowned for bringing together legendary drivers, engineers and manufacturers, with appearances from icons such as Lewis Hamilton, Ayrton Senna’s championshipwinning cars and classic Ferraris, McLarens and Porsches. Alongside the motorsport action, visitors can enjoy manufacturer showcases, concept car launches, air displays and exhibitions celebrating the history of motoring.
A REAL PAGE-TURNER
Time to choose some reading material for my holidays
In recent years, scientists (and I use the term loosely) have apparently been able to disprove the previously held conviction that goldfish only have an attention span and a memory span of just two to three seconds. I’m not sure how they managed to ascertain that fish are absent-minded in the first place, or why they’d go to the trouble of disproving that.
Humans face a few existential crisis points right now, not least among which are ongoing international conflicts, climate change, our need for clean and abundant energy, and of course, our failure to cure the common cold. Quite why, given the above problems, you’d choose to invest your time mucking around trying to decide whether fish are forgetful is anyone’s guess.
But what I can tell you from experience is that humans aren’t far behind fish. It’s fashionable to blame social media, so let’s go with that. I adore reading. Not online, not on a tablet. Proper physical books and magazines. No notifications popping up, no log-ins, just the beautiful English language painted in a glorious serif font. Trouble is, I’ve a shockingly short attention span, as is proven when I try to read, especially in the evening.
I’m not keen on holidays. Not at all. I like being in the office, among my colleagues. Regrettably we’re heading to the time of year when the current Mrs Davis conspires with my colleague Mandy to get me booted out of the office for a week or two. They’ll book some time off on my behalf, the building manager is instructed to lock the door after I leave and I’m banned from the building for the ensuing period. One of the few coping strategies I’ve developed is to make sure I’m due to start a new book.
Upon arriving at a holiday destination mandated by Mrs Davis, I assume the horizontal, pick up a book, and immediately fall asleep. For the same reason I’m a terrible reader in bed or on the sofa. I just have to look at a page and I fall fast asleep.
I have zero attention span, which both adversely impacts my ability to enjoy a good book and reduces my ability to consume books to a glacial pace. It’s telling that once you take the computer and phone away from me, and when I’m not driving, my brain just needs to revert to a state of idleness and stupor. It makes me reasonably sure that electronic devices, and the act of sitting in front of a screen are anathema to the way our brains are designed to function.
I struggle to read, I think, because I’ve fallen out of the habit of switching off my brain and adopting what everyone these days refers to as being mindful. I think the term is overused generally, but it’s legitimate here, because when reading a book you only have words on a screen, assuming you can concentrate on them without your mind wandering; something else I struggle with.
I frequently find myself reading a few pages, recognising my mind beginning to wander and then realising to my dismay that the last few paragraphs just haven’t gone in at all.
I must admit however, I am to blame, at least in part. I don’t like reading fiction; I don’t like reading unless I’m learning something. Unfortunately my appetite for that exceeds my ability to concentrate. Recently I experienced the literary equivalent of my eyes being bigger than my belly and purchased Professor Stephen Hawking’s Brief History of Time. Haven’t got a clue what he’s talking about. Something about space and time being all wibblywobbly I think, but I’ve definitely over-reached with that choice.
Happily, in this month’s magazine you’ll find an extended range of reading recommendations, which I hope will provide me, as well as our readers, with some recommendations for books you can enjoy at home, on holiday and (most importantly) whilst you’re awake.
Here at Pride, welove to read your feedback... email us on any subject at robin@pridemagazines.co.uk.
