PR IDE RUTLAND & STAMFORD
Julian Wilkinson, CEO & Publisher, Pride Magazines
WELCOME TO PRIDE
The summer months are always a happy time to be the editor of a county magazine. The combination of sunshine, decent weather and the attractive countryside of Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding area ensure there’s plenty to see and do, out and about in our area.
This month we make no apologies for venturing over the county borders to Leicestershire. Just a few miles out of Market Harborough David Ross will once again welcome visitors to the grounds of his country house, Nevill Holt, for the festival that he established back in 2013.
Today’s festival has evolved beyond its previous provision of opera to include art, music, lively discussion and much more besides. This month we’ve picked out just a few of the festival’s 60
events to recommend. We’re certain you’ll find something that appeals at this year’s festival!
We’re also celebrating the return of Stamford’s SIMFestival, back for its 10th anniversary with exceptional performances of chamber music at several venues throughout the town.
And returning home, we’re championing local businesses too, with ideas for creating beautiful summer interiors as well as advice for gardeners.
Elsewhere, we’re enjoying exceptional dining out at Witham on the Hill’s Six Bells to celebrate the exceptional pub-restaurant’s retention of its Michelin Bib Gourmand award, signifying great value and high quality dining out.
Our very best wishes for a wonderful month!
MAY 2026
LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS
12LOCAL NEWS Our round-up of ‘good news’ stories in Rutland & Stamford.
33THE GUIDE The best live events, theatre and other events taking place across Rutland and Stamford this month.
34NEVILL HOLT FESTIVAL From opera to art and everything in between, David Ross’s first class cultural festival returns for 2026.
44CHAMBER MUSIC Returning for 2026 it’s Stamford’s SIMFestival.
FOOD & DRINK
18DINING OUT Pub restaurant dining at Witham on the Hill underwritten by a 2026 Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
24THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS
This year’s celebration of the best food restaurants and food producers across Rutland and Stamford.
28RECIPE When life hands you lemons, reach for Letitia Clark’s new recipe book, For the Love of Lemons.
31WINE Our wine and spirit tips for May, plus a catch-up with Zoe and Tim at the Rutland Vineyard.
HOMES & GARDENS
56WELCOME HOME A beautifullyrestored and extended Edwardian country home at Tilton on the Hill.
64HOMES May recommendations for your home in shades of emerald green.
68 THE WOOL ROOM A sound night’s sleep all summer long with natural wool.
74 SARAH HARDING INTERIORS 25 years of exceptional interior design.
80 BESPOKE RUTLAND Space and light.
88GARDENING With author Mark Lane.
PORTFOLIO
118THE BIG INTERVIEW One year on, we’ll find out what Dame Andrea Jenkyns has been able to achieve as Combined County Authority Mayor.
126FASHION Summer fashion with stylish blue and cream hues.
140STYLE FOR MEN Effortless style and smart tailoring with Brioni.
142 TRAVEL Breathtaking scenery in Peru.
150MOTORS Porsche’s 911 GTS.
160ALMANAC Trivia and fiction.
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This month’s cover shows spring lambs by Rutland Water, image by Julian Wilkinson. We’re always looking for outstanding images that show off the area in which we live. To submit your photograph for possible use on our cover, email editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.
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Local News
Burghley chooses World Horse Welfare as
its 2026 charity
Defender Burghley Horse Trials has announced World Horse Welfare as its official Charity of the Year for the 2026 event, which takes place from 3rd–6th September at Burghley Park.
Event Director Martyn Johnson said the team was ‘delighted’ to partner with a charity that works across all areas of equestrian sport to ensure the welfare of every type of horse, from leisure animals to elite competitors.
During the event, the charity will raise funds and awareness through a series of on-site initiatives, including a themed cross-country fence and a ‘Shop & Drop’ service where visitors can store purchases for a donation. Ticket buyers will also be able to add a voluntary contribution when booking online.
Content creator and World Horse Welfare patron Esme Higgs, pictured above, will also launch a new initiative on Burghley’s Insights Stage ahead of the charity’s centenary celebrations next year.
Stamford’s ‘Town of Culture’ bid
Stamford Town Council is spearheading a bid for the town to become the UK’s first Town of Culture, a new government competition that will award £3m to the successful place for 2028. The initiative celebrates towns with strong cultural identity and ambitious plans for the future. Stamford’s vibrant creative life already includes events such as the Stamford Verse Festival, with Pint of Poetry on 2nd May, when the town’s new Poet Laureate will be named, succeeding Ross Ayres.
A Pretty Penny, Found at Burghley
A Stamford metal detectorist has uncovered a remarkable hoard of medieval coins near Burghley House, discovered during a search of farmland on the estate.
Stephen Stones took up metal detecting in 2020 and made the find the following year. The discovery, now known as the Burghley House Hoard, includes 350 silver Plantagenet pennies dating from the reigns of Henry II to Henry III, minted between the C12th and C13th. Archaeologists believe the coins were buried sometime around the late 1230s or early 1240s, though the reason remains unknown. After being reported under the Treasure Act and assessed by museums, the coins have been returned to Mr Stones and are expected to sell at auction for over £16,000.
MP Alicia’s best local businesses named for 2026
Walkers Bookshop in Stamford is named Overall Winner in local MP Alicia Kearns’ Independent Shop Awards for 2026
Walkers Bookshop in Stamford has been named the overall winner in Alicia Kearns’ annual competition celebrating Rutland and Stamford’s favourite independent shops.
The awards highlight the vital role of local businesses across Rutland and Stamford, attracting an impressive 41,606 votes across 20 categories. Walkers secured the top honour after receiving the highest number of individual votes, with a total of 1,242.
Among the winners were St Martins Antiques Centre in Stamford for Art and Antiques, Natalie Dams Beauty in Stamford for Beauty, Pampering and
Wellness, Simpsons Butchers at Stamford Garden Centre for Butchery, Central Café and Tea Rooms in Stamford for Café, Noughts & Crosses in Stamford for Children and Babies, Bog Dog Running in Stamford for Clothing and Accessories, Ewe Wool Shop in Stamford for Craft and Hobby, Farmer Lou in Exton for Farm and Produce, Stamford Flowers for Florists, Hambleton Bakery in Stamford for Food and Drink and The Rutland Nursery in Manton for Garden Centre.
Other category winners included You Living and Giving in Stamford for Gifts and Stationery, Glow in Oakham for Hairdressers, Nook in
Credit: This Esme Ltd.
Stamford for Homeware, Stamford Music Shop for Music and Musical Instruments, Pets Korner in Stamford for Pets, Rutland Late Night Pharmacy for Pharmacy and The Village Stores in Ryhall for Village Shop. Harrison and Dunn received a special commendation in the awards.
Alicia said the awards show the strength of our local independent
retail community and commented:
“Our independent shops are at the heart of our high streets and communities, and the support shown for them throughout these awards has been fantastic.”
“Congratulations to all of our winners and nominees — your hard work and contribution to our communities deserves to be celebrated.”
Celebrating five years on air
Rutland & Stamford Sounds celebrates five years on air with a bus ride across the area!
Rutland & Stamford Sound celebrated its fifth birthday with a successful bus tour across the area last month.
The live broadcast travelled through Oakham, Uppingham, and Stamford villages, featuring interviews and community events involving more than 100 people. Festivities began with Rutland
Morris dancers in Oakham’s Market Place and other highlights included a community choir performance in Uppingham and a visit to the Birch Tree Café in Easton-on-the-Hill. The day concluded at Burghley House with live music, cake and a colourful convoy of walkers, cyclists and dogs through the parkland.
Send your Rutland & Stamford news stories or press releases to editor@pridemagazines.co.uk
Rutland Vineyard Raises £6,945 for Anna’s Hope
local businesses. Each company donated £250 to sponsor the vineyard’s first ten row posts, helping to boost the final total.
The Rutland Vineyard has celebrated its most successful year of fundraising after presenting nearly £7,000 to Stamford’s Anna’s Hope. The Ketton-based Vineyard selected Anna’s Hope as its chosen charity for last year, raising an impressive £6,945 through a series of community events and sponsorship. Funds were generated from the vineyard’s popular sunflower event and its Dinosaur Fossil Weekend, alongside generous support from ten
Anna’s Hope supports children and young people diagnosed with brain tumours. The charity was founded by Carole and Rob Hughes following the death of their daughter Anna, who died aged three after a 15-month battle with a brain tumour.
The latest donation represents a record-breaking year for The Rutland Vineyard and brings the total amount it has raised for charity to more than £26,000 since planting began in 2021.
Vineyard founders Tim and Zoe Beaver thanked the businesses and visitors whose support helped achieve the record total, saying the generosity of the local community continues to make the events such a success.
Tim Beaver with Carole and Rob Hughes of Anna’s Hope.
ambitious foor school f faamily The f minds
BECAUSE GOOD ADVICE STARTS WITH A CHAT VINCENT SYKES
When you want to be more than just a ‘case.’ When you want legal advice from a fullservice firm that stays personal, clear and userfriendly. When you want to work with real humans people with a breadth of legal expertise and real life experience, committed to achieving the best outcomes... you want to pick up the phone and speak with Vincent Sykes
At some point in life, it’s inevitable that you’ll need the services of a really good law firm. From conveyancing and succession planning to family and commercial, Vincent Sykes recognises the necessity of building a longterm relationship that works hard on your behalf. It is, the firm says, best for the client and also the best way to retain clients year after year, generation after generation.
With over a 40year history, Vincent Sykes is still familyowned, with offices at Barleythorpe near Oakham, on Oundle’s West Street, and Warrington in Cheshire.
The firm employs over 40 people and prides itself on offering both private and commercial clients the benefits of a fullservice practice that’s userfriendly and has inhouse expertise across different legal specialisms to ensure a collaborative approach to a client’s needs.
“Having a range of experts within the firm means that we can offer a genuinely full service to our clients to ensure the best outcomes,” says Managing Partner Lorna Crawford. “For example, succession planning for a farming business may involve protecting land and assets through trusts or safeguarding of gifted assets with a prenuptial agreement.”
“Similarly, a family separation or estate administration will often involve a sale of the family home. Working with a firm that truly gets to know you and can provide a single, consistent point of contact throughout, can be transformative to your experience with the legal profession.”
Residential Property Services
Buying or selling a property can be complex, especially when chains and tight deadlines are involved. Whether you’re purchasing or selling a residential or commercial property, Vincent Sykes always ensures a dedicated
conveyancer and their legal assistant are a consistent point of contact. From first time buyers to seasoned investors, Vincent Sykes are there to support you.
It’s a distinct and distinctly better service than highvolume, lowcost legal service providers who are often criticised for their lack of personal contact and difficulty handling nonstandard transactions.
Private Legal Services
Planning for the future and dealing with major life events can mean engaging with a range of different specialisms within the law, especially where a complex family situation or business structure is involved. Whether you need help with succession and inheritance tax planning, wills, trusts and powers of attorney or probate and estate administration, the team at Vincent Sykes are known for providing expert legal advice with a personal touch.
Family Law
Vincent Sykes offers a comprehensive range of family law services, from divorce, separation and children matters to the negotiation and preparation of financial agreements, including financial settlements on divorce, pre and postnuptial agreements
and cohabitation agreements. Between uncertainty and separation there’s often a lot of soulsearching and fear about the future.
With a blend of empathy, experience and clear, practical advice that can help to bring clarity to uncertainty, even if what you need is simply guidance, reassurance or a better understanding of your options.
Company & Commercial Law
And finally, Vincent Sykes can provide clear, strategic advice on all aspects of company and commercial law. From business formation, shareholder agreements, to contract drafting and complex transactions. They work closely with their clients to deliver practical legal solutions tailored to their commercial objectives. Vincent Sykes is the multiservice legal practice that can help you navigate every stage of your life.
Vincent Sykes is the multi-service legal practice that offers expert legal advice, with a personal touch. Based at The King Centre, Barleythorpe Oakham, and on West Street in Oundle and Warrington in Cheshire. Call 01832 272971 or see www.vincentsykes.co.uk.
SIX BELLS AT WITHAM ON THE HILL
This month we’re enjoying a return visit to The Six Bells, a country pub restaurant which retains its long-standing Michelin Bib Gourmand status for 2026, offering quality, value and a very friendly welcome
Words: Rob Davis.
I’ve always thought it curious that French dining, as a restaurant genre, hasn’t permeated the British consciousness in the same way that restaurants offering Italian, Indian, Chinese or Thai cuisine have established themselves in our towns and cities.
It’s a common idiom to ‘go out for an Italian,’ for example, but it’d sound odd to say that you were ‘going out for a French.’ The lack of such a colloquial phrase is even more puzzling given that our continental copains are renowned across the globe for their contribution to good food.
Personally I adore good bread, tonnes of cream and butter, good cheese, the judicious use of herbs and salt, glossy sauces... and a decent glug of red wine from the Rhône.
The nice thing about French dining is that it doesn’t need to be pretentious, expensive or fussy; just hearty and well-executed. Hence France’s auberge restaurants, renowned for serving classic dishes like steak frites and moules marinière in a comfy, relaxed and rustic setting. Joyfully, that’s exactly what’s available at The Six Bells at Witham on the Hill, every Monday evening. The pub restaurant serves a dedicated, fixed-price auberge menu offering a choice of three starters, main courses, and desserts each, all for £28.
Fewer local restaurants are open on a Monday, so it’s perhaps for this reason, and for the fact that the pub restaurant’s auberge offering is such decent value that, during our visit on Monday afternoon (when most places would be closed or deserted) the place was packed.
But inexpensive Monday dining is by no means The Six Bells’ only selling point. In February the Michelin Guide for Britain and Ireland announced this year’s ratings, and reaffirmed the pub restaurant’s Bib Gourmand status, defined as ‘recognising restaurants that serve high-quality food at great value, helping diners discover outstanding meals for every occasion and every budget.’
The Six Bells was built in 1908 and commands a Grade II listing. It has been owned by the Trevor family since 2014, though Jim and Sharon previously ran The Jackson Stops inn at Stretton, Jim’s Yard in Stamford and The Beehive in Peterborough prior to their arrival in Witham on the Hill.
The two have long since handed over the day-to-day running of the place to son and daughter, James and Lauren who had been running The Queen’s Head at Bulwick until rejoining The Six Bells in 2020. Last year, too, the family opened a sister restaurant, The Rose & Crown, in Thorney, whose feel, philosophy and food ethos is generally similar to that of The Six Bells.
Opposite: Loin of Grimsthorpe venison, potatoes dauphinois, seasonal vegetables, port & blackberry sauce.
Above: Chicken and smoked ham terrine with chutney and Six Bells woodfired oven bread.
Whipped goats cheese mousse with beetroot and walnut.
ON THE MENU
SIX BELLS
Witham on the Hill
STARTERS
Soup of the day, £9.
Chicken liver pâté, tomato and pear chutney and toasted sourdough, £12.
Lincolnshire Poacher soufflé, creamed leeks and wholegrain mustard £14.
Oak-smoked salmon, lemon & capers, £13.
Chicken and smoked ham hock terrine, homemade chutney plus wood-oven bread, £13.
Burrata mozzarella, fig, rocket and parma ham, £13.
MAIN COURSES
Smoked haddock, Norfolk Keeper potatoes, monks beard, leeks and lemon butter sauce, £26.
Roast rump of lamb, minted new potatoes, seasonal vegetables red wine sauce, £30.
Cornish monkfish with wild leeks, lemon, parsley and aged Parmesan risotto, £29.
Dry-aged sirloin steak with green beans, French fries and peppercorn sauce, £30.
Honey-glazed pork collar with black pudding, mash, Bramley apples, seasonal vegetables and a red wine sauce, £27.
Roast rump of beef, with mini shin cottage pie, dauphinois potato, seasonal vegetables and smoked bone marrow sauce, £32.
DESSERTS
Chocolate Nemesis with crème fraîche.
Bramley apple and plum crumble, vanilla ice cream.
NB: Sample menu and featured dishes, subject to availability and change.
The pub restaurant’s statement of intent, as quoted on its website, is ‘simple foundations, honest food, prepared and cooked with care, using quality ingredients, combined with warm and welcoming hospitality.’ Beyond that, The Six Bells’ good value, and its long-standing Bib Gourmand status probably explain The Six Bells’ popularity. Another reason, though, might be its reputation for consistency.
As well as being under the same family’s ownership since 2014, and retaining its Michelin Bib Gourmand status for 12 years on the trot, Head Chef Ben Poulton has been in post for over a decade. It’s all but unheard of for a chef to stay in one place for so long, unless they own the restaurant.
His presence has ensured consistent quality year after year, but with a second child on the way and a desire to spend more time with family, Ben will this month give way at the pass to his Sous Chef, Phil Evans, who has also worked at the pub restaurant for over a decade.
Given that fact, we expect the quality and consistency of The Six Bells’ dining to endure, and with Ben’s partner, Danielle, the longstanding and much-loved General Manager of the place, you can still expect to see Ben popping into The Six Bells... probably pushing a pram.
Monday’s auberge menu gives way to an à la carte menu served from Tuesday to Saturday and offering four seasonally-changing dishes during lunchtime and evening service. The menu also runs an offering of Napoli-style wood-fired oven-baked pizzas, and the availability of half-rôtisserie chicken, brined and flavoured with fresh herbs snipped from the pub restaurant’s in-house allotment.
Residual heat from the same wood-fired oven that bakes pizzas on Saturday evening is used to slow-roast the 28-day-aged sirloin of beef and loin of lamb for Sunday lunch. The dry, slightly smoky heat from local kiln-dried logs lazily imparts exceptional flavour and ensures a tender, rosy-pink and succulent roast.
Across The Six Bells’ menus, butchery is supplied by Derbyshire-based Owen Taylor, who works with farmers across the East Midlands, including those in Lincolnshire.
Lamb is supplied by Sophie Arlott of Lavinton Lamb who also supplies a number of one, two and three-Michelin starred British restaurants.
Sustainable line-caught fish is supplied by Wild Harbour, game is from local shoots and veg is sourced from the Fens via Accent Fresh.
The Six Bells bakes its own no-knead eight-grain bread. Surplus loaves of this are available to purchase and take home. Truffles and fudge served with coffee are made in-house too.
Local ales are supplied by Nene Valley, Oakham and Grainstore breweries and local spirits include Multum Gin Parvo.
The Edwardian pub is also traditional and comfortable, with wood burning stoves if it’s cool this month. Meanwhile, a timber and glass canopy with patio heaters at the front of the building, as well as outdoor seating enables diners to hedge their bets in terms of the weather. Dogs are welcome under the canopy too.
The bar and two restaurants provide a total of 55 covers with an additional 25 covers on the terrace. Private dining for up to 12 diners is available too, ideal for family celebrations. Last year’s new car park isn’t exactly the sexiest thing to mention, but it does make life easier, given the restaurant’s popularity.
Overall, The Six Bells is excellent, and excellence is never an accident. A great setting, attentive, friendly service and seasonal dishes with locally-sourced ingredients all make this lovely pub restaurant a highly recommended experience, one that’s a credit to its lovely team and to the lovely family who own it.
THE SIX BELLS Witham on the Hill
The Pitch: “An independent family business, a village pub with bedrooms, a south Lincolnshire institution and a restaurant serving locally sourced, seasonal dishes, seven days a week. Awarded the coveted Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide in 2014; retained the accolade for 2026.”
Opening Hours: Open seven days. Lunch Mon to Sat, 12 noon2pm, Sunday 12 noon5pm. Dinner served Monday to Saturday 6pm9pm.
The Six Bells Main Street, Witham on the Hill, Bourne, Lincolnshire, PE10 0JH. Call 01778 590360 or see www.sixbellswitham.co.uk.
Above/Left: Smoked haddock. Above: Bramley apple bakewell, and rhubarb panna cotta.
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
HAMBLETON HALL
OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS
Each year we ask our readers to vote for their favourite restaurants, coffee shops and food producers. We reveal 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
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. Rutland Hall Hotel, Barnsdale, LE15 8AB. Call 01572 757901 or see www.rutlandhall.co.uk.
BEST INTERNATIONAL DINING RESTAURANT 2025 CLOISTERS
Cosy Italian bistro serving fresh pasta, authentic pizzas, and a variety of traditional Italian dishes.
St Mary's St, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 755162 or see www.cloistersbistro.com.
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.
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
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.
THE CROWN
16thcentury coaching inn serving light lunch, comforting pub classics, handstretched stonebaked pizza.
High St E, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, 01572 822302 or see www.crownuppingham.co.uk.
THE FALCON HOTEL
Historic hotel and pub offering a variety of hearty British dishes and Sunday roasts.
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 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 747 418 or see thegeorgeanddragonseaton.com.
THE HORSE & JOCKEY
Traditional pub located near Rutland Water, offering pub classics and local ales.
St Mary’s Road, Manton, LE15 8SU. Call 01572 737335 or see horseandjockeyrutland.co.uk.
THE KING’S HEAD
A quaint pub in the heart of Stamford, offering hearty pub meals.
Maiden Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AZ. Call 01780 753510 or see www.kingsheadstamford.co.uk.
THE LONDON INN
Oldworld pub offering traditional dishes, including brunch and grill options.
St John's Street, Stamford, PE9 2DB. Call 01780 754919.
THE LORD BURGHLEY
A traditional British pub with a suntrap garden, serving a variety of pub classics. Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 763426.
THE NOEL AT WHITWELL
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.
No23 Uppingham.
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. 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 Rutland Vineyard.
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 12,000sq 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.
Recipes
LEMON AND COURGETTE CARBONARA
SERVES 2
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to serve
1 garlic clove, bashed
2 medium or 3 small courgettes (zucchini), sliced in half lengthways, then into halfmoons sea salt
180 g (61/2 oz) pasta of your choice
1 egg plus 2 egg yolks
4 tablespoons grated pecorino (or Parmesan) zest of 1 small lemon and juice of 1 or 2 lemons basil leaves, to serve.
This courgette carbonara is lifted by a hefty hit of lemon (both zest and juice), which cuts through the richness of the eggs beautifully. It is also essential to counteract the sweetness of the braised courgettes, which become almost jammy after slow sautéing in plentiful olive oil and garlic. Courgette and lemon is a combination you will often see in my recipes, and it is a happy and mutually complementary marriage; the sweetness of the vegetable is cut by the acidity of the fruit, and the innate lemonyness of courgettes accentuated by both the zest and juice of the citrus.
I often make the sautéed courgettes the night before, and keep them in the refrigerator before putting this together the next day for a lastminute lunch. I like using smooth penne, but spaghetti or rigatoni also work well.
n Heat the oil in a frying pan (skillet) over a mediumlow heat, then fry the garlic clove until it just begins to sizzle and smell good. Add the courgette slices and sauté, stirring regularly, until they are golden all over, beginning to break down and almost jammy. Season well with salt and set aside (or leave to cool, then keep in the refrigerator for future use).
n Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions in a large pan of wellsalted boiling water until al dente.
n Meanwhile, mix the egg and egg yolks, cheese and lemon into the courgette mixture, and begin to heat very gently, stirring all the time. Scoop out the pasta with a slotted spoon straight into the courgette pan along with a splash or two of the cooking water. Stir and toss over a low heat until you have a creamy sauce that coats the pasta. Taste for seasoning, add a few fresh basil leaves, extra Parmesan and a drizzle of your best oil, then serve.
n Avariation is Artichoke Carbonara; make as described for courgette carbonara, but in place of the courgettes, use 4–5 prepared, sliced artichoke hearts, and finish with chopped mint rather than basil.
LEMON
TIRAMISÙ
ON SALE NOW
For the Love of Lemons, Letitia Clark (Quadrille, £28.00)
Photography by Charlotte Bland
SERVES 8-10
FOR THE LEMON CURD: 2 teaspoons cornflour,
50 ml (1 3 /4 fl oz or 3 1/2 tablespoons) water, 120 ml (4 fl oz or 1/2 cup) lemon juice, 3 eggs, 150 g (5 1/2 oz or 3/4 cup) sugar, 40 g (11/2 oz) unsalted butter, a pinch of salt
FOR THE CREAM: 400 g (14 oz/2 cups) mascarpone
300 ml (10 fl oz/11/4 cups) whipping cream
80 g (2 3/4 oz, 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon) icing sugar
FOR THE SPONGE LAYER: 2 packs of savoiardi or sponge fingers (about 24 biscuits), or leftover cake (see introduction)
400 ml (14 fl oz/generous 11/2 cups) milk
TO FINISH: lemon zest, lemon slices, sprigs of mint
I may have resisted the temptation to call this ‘lemonisu’ (partly because it doesn’t sound right anyway) but I could not resist writing a recipe for a pale yellow, lemony tiramisù.
Of course, a real tiramisù should have coffee and cocoa (and in my mind, marsala and brandy), but this is a truly heavenly (if heathen) version, which, quite apart from being delicious, has a strong aesthetic argument behind it; such swathes of lemon yellow and pale cream seem like some sort of divinely luxurious sofa, smug and snug in the corner of an idyllic Amalfi residence.
n First, make the curd. Whisk the cornflour with the water until dissolved and milkylooking, then place all the ingredients in a small saucepan over a low heat. Whisk constantly, helping the butter to melt, then gradually increase the heat to medium and stir until it thickens to form a curd the consistency of loose mayonnaise. Allow to cool to room temperature.
n Whip the mascarpone with the cream and icing sugar to form soft peaks. Decant into a piping (pastry) bag if you have one.
n Soak the savoiardi in milk, allowing them to absorb enough to become just damp and spongy but not dripping, then layer them at the base of a 23 cm (9 in) dish. Pipe over a third of the cream, flatten with a spatula or back of a spoon, then spread over half of the cooled curd. Repeat, then finish with little piped peaks of cream.
n If you do not have a piping bag or prefer not to use one, you can layer differently and finish with a shining layer of yellow curd, which is equally beautiful. In this case, do two layers of both: start sponge, then cream, then curd; sponge, cream and finally curd. To finish, arrange the lemon zest, slices and sprigs of mint on top.
SPRING SIPPER
Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle Gin
£42.00, 70cl, 40% ABV www.sipsmith.com
A beautifully bright, citrus led British gin that captures the essence of early summer. Zesty lemon peel and subtle vanilla notes dance with traditional botanicals, making this a stunning choice for a Lemon & Tonic with a sprig of thyme or a refreshing Gin Fizz. Perfect for garden gatherings and al fresco evenings in May.
Heard it through the
Our monthly digest from Ketton’s Rutland Vineyard with Zoe & Tim Beaver
Wine & Spirits
This month we invite you to discover premium drinks to elevate your enjoyment this season, whether you’re savouring sundowners, hosting dinner al fresco, enjoying a garden party, or celebrating with friends
Spring Reds & Rosés: Blush, fruity and food friendly!
Three Mills Reserve is a Britishmade fruity rosé ideal to partner with seafood, or for those seeking a lighter wine, £15.95, 75cl, 8% ABV.
Revelation is a cabernet and merlot blend, juicy, mediumbodied classic ideal with roast lamb, £25, 75cl, 13.5% ABV.
Rock Angel rosé wine is a Provence style rosé, ideal with seafood or summer salads, £27.50, 75cl, 13% ABV.
Spring is stirring in the vineyard! Tiny buds are beginning to appear along the vines, a quiet sign that the growing season is underway once more.
This stage is also a tense one. These young buds are fragile, a late frost can cause serious damage, potentially affecting the entire season ahead. Each cool night is watched carefully, with fingers crossed that temperatures stay just high enough.
Fortunately, our vineyard's elevated position and the gentle breezes that move across the site help reduce the risk. That natural airflow keeps cold air from settling among the vines, offering a little extra protection during these early weeks.
In the winery beyond, there is good news too. Our new rosé will soon be arriving, just in time for the brighter days ahead. Fresh, vibrant, and perfect for spring and summer sipping, we can't wait to share it with you. Alongside it, we are excited to produce our Triple Tipple white & red wines which we really hope you will enjoy.
As the vineyard begins its new chapter for the year, we look forward to raising a glass with you soon.
Visit The Rutland Vineyard’s tasting barn, Ketton, from Wed-Sat, www.therutlandvineyard.com.
World Class
This summer, over 25,000 people are expected to enjoy 60 different events at the 2026 Nevill Holt Festival. From opera and live music to fascinating talks as well as beautiful gardens with impressive sculpture, the festival is rich, varied and really quite wonderful!
It never happens to me! Arriving at the home of David Ross, businessman, philanthropist and founder of the Nevill Holt Festival, my phone battery went flat. It left me with no sat-nav, no means to call at the gate and advise of my arrival, no way to review my preinterview notes, and no device on which to record our conversation.
I mused upon how important mobile phones have become for administering our lives, and how lost we are without them. But who should know that better than the co-founder of Carphone Warehouse in 1991? The retailer was at the cutting edge of technology, establishing the company when car phones sold in limited volumes then ceased selling when mobiles emerged, by which time it was too late to name the company Mobile Warehouse instead. David’s company, at its peak, comprised 531 stores and sold 6.5 million mobile phones a year.
That being the case, you’d think he would be a technology advocate, but his admission to using an old phone with a cracked screen proves otherwise. “I’m not a tech wizard,” he says. “I was on the operational and finance side; the technology was sort of incidental to me.”
Additionally, from 2007 when he founded the David Ross Education Trust, he has also been involved in education and sees the importance of getting youngsters off their screens (“At 12, 13 or 14 they just don’t need the distraction,” he says). One way to achieve this is to introduce them to live music and theatre, something he’s well-placed to do as the founder of the Nevill Holt Festival.
Words: Rob Davis.
Left: Opera North collaborated with Nevill Holt Festival to present Mozart’s Così Fan Tutte at last year.
“My father used to take me to concerts. He was also a singer, albeit not a very good one!” David says. “I went to school in Uppingham and on a Saturday morning we were given the choice of staying at school to study, or going on the bus to venues like Sheffield’s City Hall or the Crucible to see the Hallé Orchestra or The Magic Flute or Joseph & The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. What started off as a scam to get out of the classroom soon became a real pleasure, and I want to provide that experience to youngsters, as well as adults, so that’s why I’m keen to include them in the festival as well.”>>
Productions like last year’s Cosi Fan Tutte and this year’s Don Pasquale, performed in collaboration with Opera North, ensure that opera is still at the festival’s heart
David purchased the 13th-century Grade I-listed Nevill Holt in 2000 and spent three years on a comprehensive renovation of the estate, the former home of Sir Bache Cunard in 1876, who inherited it following the death of his brother Edward.
After a good friend, who ran an opera festival down south, asked to use the estate for a similar event, the first Nevill Holt Festival took place, comprising a couple of hundred people and a handful of performances.
Today’s Nevill Holt Festival has a remit beyond opera, although productions like last year’s Così Fan Tutte and this year’s Don Pasquale, produced and performed in collaboration with Opera North, ensure that opera is still at the festival’s heart.
More than 25,000 people are expected to attend a summer programme of over 60 events. These range from the opening of Nevill Holt’s gardens, with their exceptional sculpture, for the NGS, to appearances by actors (Hugh Bonneville, Dame Imelda Staunton, Jim Carter), sports personalities (Clare Balding, Rebecca Adlington, Jonathan Agnew) and comedians like Rory Bremner. Other participants include broadcasters like John Simpson and historians such as David Olusoga, fresh from Celebrity Traitors.
Other events include Guardians of Heritage in which David himself will be joined by the Duke of Buccleuch of Boughton House and Orlando Rock of Burghley House to discuss what it means to undertake custodianship of Britain’s great country houses.
Those who appreciate fashion will enjoy the opportunity to see Dame Anya Hindmarch and Zandra Rhodes. Food for thought is also a feature of the festival courtesy of Bake Off finalist Dr Josh Smalley, Bake Off winner Matty Edgell and Rory O’Connell, founder of Ballymaloe Cookery School and two-time holder of Ireland’s Chef of the Year title.
IN BRIEF
David Ross
Early Years: Born in Grimsby, Lincolnshire. Educated at Uppingham School then University of Nottingham: BA (Hons) Law plus chartered accountancy qualifications.
Businesses: Founded Carphone Warehouse with Charles Dunstone in 1991, directorships in National Express, Trinity Mirror, founded Kandahar Real Estate. Jigsaw fashion brand.
Philanthropy/Education: Founded the David Ross Education Trust in 2007. Funded Lincoln Castle’s highsecurity Magna Carta Vault in 2015. Trustee of National Portrait Gallery.
Musical acts featured this year include the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson, the Jay Rayner Sextet and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra.
The creation of a dedicated theatre (a winner of a RIBA National Award) in the adjacent 17th-century stable block in 2018 plus the organic growth of the festival means it now attracts a greater audience than ever, whilst still retaining its intimate feel thanks to events being spaced out from Friday 29th May to Sunday 21st June.
If David was hoping to reclaim his front lawn any time soon, hard luck... the festival’s popularity has grown, and its combination of world-class performances with hospitality and a beautiful setting have all helped to ensure that Nevill Holt has become one of the best, and most varied outdoor cultural festivals in Britain, and a thoroughly enjoyable part of your summer.
Over the next few pages, we’ve a few highlights of this year’s festival...
Sculpture at Nevill Holt
Art forms an integral part of the experience at Nevill Holt, where a thoughtfully curated collection of contemporary sculpture is displayed across the estate. Among the most striking pieces is Horse at Water by Nic Fiddian-Green, a monumental bronze horse head poised as if drinking from the lake. Other works include The Morrígan by Luke Alen Buckley, a powerful three-part monument formed from suspended blue-limestone boulders.
The wider collection features sculpture by leading modern British artists including Antony Gormley, Rachel Whiteread, Marc Quinn, Allen Jones, Sean Henry and Peter Randall-Page. Together the works create a compelling outdoor gallery that reflects Nevill Holt’s commitment to contemporary art alongside its celebrated opera festival.
The Gardens of Nevill Holt
The gardens at Nevill Holt extend across ten acres and combine historic character with thoughtful contemporary design by Chelsea gold medal-winning garden designer Rupert Golby.
Three distinctive walled gardens provide structure and variety. The Italian Garden is planted with old English roses and framed by mature holm oaks clipped into large spheres, with herbaceous planting providing colour in early summer. The Walled Kitchen Garden has been productive since the seventeenth century with wall-trained fruit including peaches and nectarines alongside vegetables and flowers grown for the estate.
At the Font House a peaceful modern pavilion sits within planting of shrubs, roses and perennials beside symmetrical pools with sculpture seen throughout the grounds of Nevill Holt.
The gardens are open from Friday 29th May to Sunday 21st June, in association with the National Gardens Scheme and Nevill Holt Festival.
Exceptional Dining at Nevill Holt
London’s Maison François will once again take over the main marquee at Nevill Holt to create The Garden Restaurant, a full-scale pop-up dining experience, and a destination in its own right. Opened in 2020 by François O’Neill, Ed Wyand, and Executive Chef Matthew Ryle, Maison François is a critically-acclaimed brasserie in the heart of St James’s in London’s West End.
At Nevill Holt, The Garden by Maison François will serve French classics all day and into the evening, often using produce from the estate’s own Kitchen Garden. The à la carte menu features dishes such as steak frites, moules frites, ratatouille, and a rotating selection of signature plats. A set summer menu is also available for those looking to combine dining with a performance.
Reservations can be made online at www.nevillholtfestival.com/dining.
Nevill Holt: 12 Highlights for 2026...
29th & 31st May & 5th & 7th June
Don Pasquale
Opera North & Nevill Holt present Donizetti’s Don Pasquale, a classic opera buffa – a fastpaced comic opera brimming with sharp wit, romantic intrigue and sparkling music. Step into the golden age of Italian cinema with this stylish new production by Opera North, directed by James Hurley, and set in an independent film studio in mid1960s Rome. Fizzing with wit, glamour and cinematic flair, Don Pasquale blends comedy with the romance and nostalgia of Italy’s filmmaking heyday. This opera will be sung in Italian with English surtitles.
5pm Fridays, 3pm Sundays, £170-£200.
Friday 29th May
Clare Balding and Rebecca Adlington
Join BAFTA awardwinning writer and broadcaster Clare Balding CBE as she sits down with twotime Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington OBE. The pair will reflect on Balding’s remarkable career at the forefront of sport and television. Honoured with both an OBE and CBE for services to broadcasting, sport and charity, Clare continues to champion greater visibility and equality in women’s sport and will surely prove a wonderful host for the 2008 Olympicwinning swimmer.
7.30pm-8.30pm, tickets £45.
Saturday 30th May
John Simpson
A legendary name in news reporting, John Simpson CBE, makes an exclusive appearance with us to share reflections on his illustrious career as the BBC’s World Affairs Editor. Widely regarded as one of the most distinguished foreign correspondents of our time, Simpson is the ‘David Attenborough of news.’
For more than six decades, he has reported on almost every major turning point in modern history, from the Iranian Revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall to the Gulf Wars, the end of Apartheid, the genocide in Rwanda and the collapse of the Soviet Union.
2.30pm-3.30pm, tickets £40.
Friday 12th June
Rory Bremner
For four decades, Rory Bremner has been the voice of our times... quite literally. Now, following a thrilling soldout 2025 tour, the master satirist is back to combine his signature standup with candid conversation. Expect a virtuoso display of vocal mimicry, razorsharp political commentary, and revealing insights from the man who’s made a career of being other people. Don’t miss this rare chance to see Britain’s foremost impressionist blend standup comedy and conversation in an evening of acute observations, pitchperfect impressions, and surprising revelations. 7pm-8pm, tickets £37.50.
Saturday 13th June
Jim Carter & Dame Imelda Staunton
Jonathan ‘Aggers’ Agnew is back by popular demand, this time joined by acclaimed actors and devoted cricket enthusiasts Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton. This spectacular trio come together for a hilarious and captivating conversation. Jim Carter is one of Britain’s most respected stage and screen actors, widely recognised for his portrayal of Mr Carson in Downton Abbey. Dame Imelda Staunton is the BAFTAaward winning star of Harry Potter and The Crown and Aggers... well, he needs no introduction! 4pm-5pm, tickets £45.
Saturday 13th June
David Olusoga
An opportunity to unpack the inner workings of one of the UK’s most compelling voices on history, race and identity. David Olusoga, BritishNigerian historian, bestselling author, BAFTAwinning filmmaker and Celebrity Traitors presents an evening of insight, challenge and a powerful rethinking of what we thought we knew about British history and its global connections. David is the author of acclaimed books including Black & British: A Forgotten History, The World’s War and Black History for Every Day of the Year, cowritten with his sisters.
3pm-4pm, tickets £30.
Saturday 13th June
Hugh Bonneville
Join the legendary screen and stage star Hugh Bonneville, actor, producer and author, widely recognised for his roles in Notting Hill, Downton Abbey, W1A and the three Paddington films. Hugh will be in conversation with acclaimed actress Genevieve Gaunt for an afternoon of insight and wit. Together, they will delve into the anecdotes, backstage encounters and quietly comic misadventures that shaped Hugh’s warmly received memoir, Playing Under the Piano: From Downton to Darkest Peru, a charming reflection on several decades spent, as he puts it, trying not to bump into the furniture. 5.15pm-6.15pm, tickets £30.
Friday 19th June
Dame Anya Hindmarch
A vibrant occasion to celebrate the career of Dame Anya Hindmarch, fashion designer, passionate advocate of British design and a trustee of Tate. Anya will be in conversation with acclaimed journalist and editor Emily Sheffield. Hindmarch founded her business in London in 1987, and it has since grown into a global brand. Today, it is known for its luxury, organisationobsessed accessories, groundbreaking work in sustainability and playful experiential retail concepts. Creativity, modern craftsmanship and personalisation sit at the heart of everything Anya Hindmarch does. 3pm-4pm, tickets £40.
Friday 19th June
Dame Zandra Rhodes
An afternoon with British fashion and textile designer, Dame Zandra Rhodes, renowned for her bold, colourful handdrawn prints and unmistakable personal style. As a trailblazer in fusing the craft of screenprinting and fashion design, Rhodes launched her own label in 1969, designing five decades’ worth of groundbreaking fashion collections and dressing every one from rock stars to royalty, including Freddie Mercury and Princess Diana. Zandra recently published her memoir, Iconic: My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects, and her designs can be seen in many prestigious museums.
3.45pm-4.45pm, tickets £call.
Saturday 20th June
Jenny Eclair
Join Jenny Eclair for an hour of loosely described ‘conversation,’ featuring indiscreet gossip/scurrilous anecdotes and illadvised oversharing.’ Jenny is an awardwinning comedian, writer and actress, best known as the first woman to win the Perrier Award at the Edinburgh Festival. She has starred in Grumpy Old Women on stage and screen, appeared regularly on television and radio, and is the author of several novels from the standup comedian and author, whose memoir, ‘Jokes, Jokes, Jokes’ was written in an attempt to get it all down in print, before she forgot everything. 3pm-4pm, tickets £30.
Saturday 20th June
Matty Edgell: From The Bake Off Tent
See Bake Off winner Matty Edgell live at Nevill Holt Festival! Watch his expert baking demos, pick up top tips, and gain an insight into his Bake Off journey. Known for his deliciously creative bakes and downtoearth style, Matty will be sharing insider tips, mouthwatering recipes, and the secrets behind his showstopping cakes. Watch him in action during live demos, get inspired by his journey, and even grab the chance to meet him in person. If you’re a fan of the show or love great food, this is unmissable! 3.30pm-4.30pm, tickets £20.
Saturday 20th June
Grimethorpe Colliery Band
The legendary Grimethorpe Colliery Band, made famous worldwide by the acclaimed film Brassed Off, takes to the stage at Nevill Holt Theatre for an afternoon of awardwinning music. Founded in 1917 for miners at Grimethorpe Colliery in South Yorkshire, the band has since become a British institution and one of the world’s most celebrated brass ensembles. Their glittering career includes appearances at the BBC Proms, Eurovision, and the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony. 4pm-5.50pm, tickets £35.
Laugh & Cry!
A joyful and moving celebration of chamber music returns to Stamford, as Freya Goldmark’s Stamford International Music Festival brings together outstanding musicians for a richly expressive programme spanning centuries of sound
If you don’t know whether to laugh or cry, this month’s SIMFestival programme of classical music in Stamford is for you. Returning each May, the Stamford International Music Festival offers something rather special, a few days set gently apart from everyday life, inviting audiences to gather, listen closely and experience chamber music in its most immediate and expressive form.
Founded by Uppingham born violinist Freya Goldmark when she was just 19, the festival has grown into one of the region’s most distinctive cultural events. This year’s theme, music to laugh and cry to, shapes a programme that moves fluidly between lightness and depth, humour and intensity.
Words: Rob Davis.
Image: The Ligeti Quartet are Freya Goldmark, Patrick Dawkins, Val Welbanks and Richard Jones... The quartet named themselves after the Hungarian composer György Ligeti (19232006), inspired by his kaleidoscopic musical outlook and his tireless invention.
Across a carefully curated series of concerts, audiences will encounter works that speak directly to human experience, from joy and tenderness to grief and exhilaration. As Freya puts it, “at the heart of all these works is a shared response to human character and emotion… for me, this remains remarkably unchanged across centuries.”
The repertoire brings together some of the most beloved names in classical music, including Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Mendelssohn, Dvorak and Tchaikovsky, alongside more recent voices such as Steve Reich, György Ligeti, Dobrinka Tabakova and Jörg Widmann. Integral to SIMFestival is its sense of collaboration, and the 2026 festival is no exception. >>
The festival opens with a programme that establishes the emotional landscape of the weekend, beginning with Beethoven, a work of youthful energy and elegance...
>> Alongside Freya herself, audiences will hear violinists Alessandro Ruisi, a Royal Philharmonic Society Award winner and founder of the acclaimed Ruisi Quartet, and Charlotte Saluste Bridoux, a Young Classical Artists Trust prize winner and Classic FM Rising Star.
They are joined by versatile string players including Emma Purslow, known for her work with the Alkyona String Quartet, and Welsh violist Edgar Francis, whose career has flourished since winning first prize at the Cecil Aronowitz Competition. Fellow violist Ting Ru Lai brings a rich international perspective, having performed widely across Europe and collaborating with leading artists on the festival circuit.
The cello section is equally distinguished, featuring Scottish cellist Hugh Mackay, recipient of the prestigious Suggia Gift, alongside Latvian musician Peteris Sokolovskis and Irish cellist Brian O’Kane, a prize winner at the Windsor International String Competition who has appeared at Wigmore Hall and with major orchestras.
Completing the ensemble are pianists Joseph Havlat, a noted interpreter of contemporary repertoire, and Jâms Coleman, whose performances span major festivals from Aldeburgh to the BBC Proms.
Among this year’s highlights is the welcome appearance of Freya’s own ensemble, the Ligeti Quartet, performing in Stamford for the first time. Renowned for their commitment to new music and bold programming, the quartet embodies the adventurous spirit that defines the festival. As Freya notes, “chamber music thrives on long musical friendships as well as fresh collaborations, and this year’s programme reflects both.”
Freya’s own career has been defined by that same sense of curiosity and energy. Named one of Classic FM’s Rising Stars for 2025, she continues to build a reputation for expressive performance and imaginative programming, yet Stamford remains at the heart of her work. Its historic venues and engaged audiences provide what she describes as ‘the perfect place for this kind of shared musical experience.’
Thursday 21st May
Opening Concert: Mendelssohn Double Concerto in D minor
The festival opens with a programme that establishes the emotional landscape of the weekend, beginning with Beethoven’s String Trio in D major Op. 9 No. 2, a work of youthful energy and elegance from his early Vienna years, followed by Korngold’s Suite Op. 23 in which the Groteske and Lied contrast biting wit with lush lyricism, before concluding with Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin and Piano in D minor, offering a vivid sense of dialogue between soloists and ensemble in music that moves between warmth, intensity and expressive charm. Stamford Arts Centre, 6.00pm, £30 plus £2 ticket commission.
Late Night: Different Trains
This late evening concert juxtaposes two contrasting musical journeys, opening with Schubert’s Fantasie in F minor for piano four hands D. 940, an inward and emotionally searching work rich in lyrical interplay, before moving to Steve Reich’s Different Trains, performed by the Ligeti Quartet. Stamford Arts Centre, 9.00pm, £20 plus £2 ticket commission.
Friday 22nd May
Lunchtime Concert:
Much Ado About Nothing
A varied, intimate programme begins with J S Bach’s Actus tragicus BWV 106 Sonatina in a transcription by Kurtág for piano four hands, followed by Mozart’s Violin Sonata No. 18 in G major K. 301, before Korngold’s Much Ado About Nothing suite Op. 11 for violin and piano offers theatrical colour and wit, complemented by Dobrinka Tabakova’s Insight for string trio and from 2013 which brings a contemporary, reflective voice, and concluding with Ligeti’s String Quartet No. 1 Métamorphoses nocturnes, a vivid and transformative work that explores shifting textures and moods within a compact musical form. Stamford Arts Centre, 1.00pm, £16 plus £2 ticket commission.
Evening Concert:
Dvořák ‘Dumky’ Trio
At the heart of the festival, this concert opens with Widmann’s 180 Beats per Minute, a driving and rhythmically charged work, before Dvořák’s Piano Trio No. 4 in E minor Op. 90 ‘Dumky’ unfolds in a series of contrasting movements inspired by Slavic folk forms, balancing melancholy reflection with moments of exuberance, and after the interval Korngold’s String Sextet in D major Op. 10 brings rich Romantic textures and sweeping lyricism to close a programme that moves between intensity, nostalgia and radiant musical expression. Stamford Arts Centre, 7.00pm, £30 plus £2 ticket commission.
Late Night Beethoven: String Quartet Op.130
This late night performance is devoted to Beethoven’s String Quartet in B flat major Op. 130, one of the most expansive and searching works of his late period, a vast and deeply expressive composition that moves from passages of lightness and humour to moments of profound introspection, revealing the composer’s bold structural imagination and emotional depth in music that continues to challenge and inspire performers and audiences alike. Browne’s Hospital, 9.30pm, £20 plus £2 ticket commission.
Saturday 23rd May
Morning Concert: À la mémoire d’un grand artiste
This morning concert centres on Tchaikovsky’s Piano Trio in A minor Op. 50 ‘À la mémoire d’un grand artiste’, a monumental chamber work written in memory of Nikolai Rubinstein, combining grand, sweeping gestures with deeply personal expression, its two large scale movements encompassing both elegiac reflection and virtuosic brilliance in a tribute that is at once intimate and expansive. Stamford Arts Centre, 11.30am, £16 plus £2 ticket commission.
THURSDAY 21st-SATURDAY 23rd MAY
Children’s Concert: Family Programme
A relaxed and engaging introduction to chamber music, this family friendly performance features music from Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence, written after the composer's stay in the city during 1890, alongside Turina’s The Circus, presented in an accessible and interactive format with piano and strings, offering younger audiences an imaginative and lively exploration of musical storytelling and instrumental colour.
Stamford Arts Centre, 2.00pm, £8.
Charlotte SalusteBridoux will perform on the Stamford SIMFestival’s opening night.
Festival Finale: Souvenir de Florence
The festival concludes with a celebratory programme bringing together many of the weekend’s musical threads, including Turina’s The Circus in an arrangement for piano quartet by Joseph Havlat presented as a world premiere, alongside a broader exploration of dance rhythms, theatrical character and Romantic lyricism, that reflects the festival’s theme of music that moves between joy and introspection, energy, colour and emotional breadth. Stamford Arts Centre, 7.30pm, £30 plus £2 ticket commission.
To book tickets and for more information about the 2026 Stamford SIMFestival event, see www.simfestival.com or book by phone via Stamford Arts Centre on 01780 763 203 or by visiting https://www.stamfordartscentre.com/whats-on
RELAX
There’s something quietly transformative happening at Walcot Wellness this season: a wild sauna experience to benefit body and mind
Tucked beside a private lake in a countryside location between Stamford and Peterborough, a Scandistyle Lakeside Sauna is one of those rare finds you almost hesitate to share. Rooted in wild simplicity, it offers an experience that is truly unique — a place where you can unwind, surrounded by nature, and enjoy hot and cold contrast therapy in its purest and most natural form.
What makes this spot particularly special is its ‘wild’ character. It’s the only offering of its kind locally — not a spa, not a retreat centre, no membership required – but something more organic and quiet. The sauna itself doubles as a hide, allowing you to remain unseen while enjoying a frontrow view of the birds and wildlife around you.
While closely linked to The Nest Glamping — an escape where African Safari meets the English countryside — Walcot Wellness itself is open to everyone. Locals, visitors, early risers and sunset chasers alike are all welcome!
The Nest comprises just three beautifully appointed safaristyle lodges, each designed to sleep up to six guests and thoughtfully positioned to make the most of the
surrounding landscape. Inside, guests will find stylish interiors, fully equipped kitchens and proper bathrooms, while outside, each lodge enjoys its own deck, woodfired hot tub and uninterrupted views across the water, creating a wonderfully peaceful retreat from everyday life.
The Sauna is bookable at £50/hour for up to four people. It’s perfect for a catch up with friends or a restorative moment to yourself.
Beyond its setting, the sauna offers a wealth of wellbeing benefits. Time spent in the heat is known to improve circulation, ease muscle tension and support recovery, while also helping to reduce stress and promote deeper, more restorative sleep.
Paired with the invigorating cold of the lake, the contrast can boost mood, sharpen focus and leave you with a lasting sense of clarity and calm — a natural reset for both body and mind.
Looking ahead, Walcot Wellness by the lake is set to become a space for outdoor wellness throughout the summer months. We are busy putting together a programme of wild swimming sessions, guided experiences, and openair gatherings designed to reconnect people with both nature and themselves.
A hidden gem, for now — but not for long!
What’s On May
28th April
The Great British Bake Off Musical
Step into the iconic tent and experience The Great British Bake Off Musical. A feelgood, laughoutloud celebration of baking, bravery, and finding your place.
Bursting with British wit, this joyful musical serves up all the warmth and humour fans love, with a theatrical twist that’s utterly delicious.
With an original score that captures every whisk, wobble, and winning bake, this musical is an immersive treat from start to finish. Perfect for audiences of all ages, The Great British Bake Off Musical is a heartwarming crowdpleaser.
Stamford Corn Exchange, Tuesday 28th April to Sunday 3rd May, from 7.30pm, tickets £20, call 01780 766455 or see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.
2nd May
Burghley Spring Fine Food Market
Local produce in the stunning surroundings of the Chestnut & Stable Courtyards at Burghley House this May Bank Holiday at the Spring Fine Food Market. Featuring a wide range of exhibitors including dishes from around the world, cheese, soft and alcoholic beverages, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats.
Saturday 2nd to Monday 4th May, Burghley House, call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.
8th May
The Rutland Sea Dragon
Talk and guided walk by Joe Davis about the Rutland Sea Dragon at Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre, 10am. See anglianwaterparks.co.uk.
9th May
Lamport Hall Makers Market & Food Festival
Following last year’s successful debut, this twoday Maker’s Market and Food Festival celebrates the region’s finest artisans, designers and food producers. Browse over 80 carefully curated stalls showcasing everything from handmade jewellery and ceramics to artwork, homewares and sweet treats. Street food favourites and artisan coffee add to the atmosphere, alongside live acoustic music across the weekend. Visitors can also enjoy craft demonstrations, including printmaking and woodturning, with opportunities for children to get involved. With free family activities such as facepainting, storytelling and hobby horse fun, it’s a vibrant, creative weekend for all ages.
Entry £5/over 16s. From 10am4pm, Lamport Hall, NN6 9EZ. Call 01604 686272 or see www.lamporthall.co.uk.
Freya Goldmark, Stamford SIMF.
12th May
The Bodyguard
‘And IIIIIIEEIII will always love you,’ said Whitney to her bodyguardturned love interest in the 1992 film. And now, a stage production reaches Leicester’s Curve Theatre this month, with Sidonie Smith undertaking Whitney’s warble and Adam Garcia as the eponymous bodyguard. Featuring all of Whitney’s hits from So Emotional, One Moment in Time, Saving All My Love, I Have Nothing and I Wanna Dance With Somebody as well as, of course, I Will Always Love You. Tuesday 12th May to Saturday 16th May, 7.30pm and 2.15pm, Curve Theatre, Leicester, call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk
15th May
Summer Music
Celebration
A multivenue celebration of music features pupils from Uppingham School, in the school’s chapel from 7.30pm. See www.uppingham.co.uk.
16th May
Rutland
Walking & Cycling Festival
The popular festival will be returning once again from 16th29th May, celebrating movement, wellbeing and community across Rutland. See discover-rutland.co.uk for the festival’s full programme of events and walks.
16th May
Glenn Tilbrook, the Voice of Squeeze
An evening of music and chat with the Squeeze vocalist, expect to hear Cool for Cats, Up the Junction, Labelled With Love and Take Me I’m Yours. Armed with ready wit and a supply of grininducing great songs, few musicians connect with an audience so immediately and warmly. Stamford Corn Exchange, Saturday 16th May, £34, see stamfordcornexchange.co.uk.
17th May
Classic Wheels
An unforgettable day for motoring enthusiasts with more than 1,000 classic vehicles on display in 2025 alongside Autojumble stands, food & craft stalls, live music, children’s entertainment and club displays. Entries still being invited for those who want to show off their classic car or motorcycle, see website. £12.50/adults, Rutland Showground, from 10am, see classicwheelsrutland.co.uk.
29th May
Fleetwood Mac By Moonlight at Rockingham Castle
Get ready for an incredible line up of talented musicians and stunning vocalists performing some of Fleetwood Mac’s best loved and timeless classics including Dreams, Rhiannon, The Chain and many more! With high energy authentic performances, prepare to be immersed in the magical energy of a live Fleetwood Mac concert. Bring family and friends and enjoy a long summer evening picnicking and partying in the beautiful grounds of Rockingham Castle! Friday 29th May from 7pm, £29/adult early bird, Rockingham Castle, Corby LE16 8TH, book online at www.operationmoonlight.com.
31st May
The 192nd
Rutland County Show
2026 will be the 192nd year of The Rutland Show, and organisers say they’re planning a show that is bigger than ever with the jampacked schedule packed full of family entertainment alongside livestock and equine showing classes and the county’s finest food and drink.
For tickets and this year’s main ring programme see www.rutlandshowground.com.
Fleetwood Mac by Moonlight.
NEW BOOK RELEASES
Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!
Liza Minnelli
Born into Hollywood royalty, Liza was the daughter of legendary director Vincente Minnelli and the incomparable Judy Garland, her mother being both an inspiration and, at times, a source of fear. In this deeply candid memoir, Liza pulls back the curtain on her extraordinary life, Michael Feinstein helps Liza relive the activism and friendships that shaped her; including the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Jackson and Princess Diana.
Release mid-March, £19.99.
A World Appears
Michael Pollan
The story of the quest to solve the greatest mystery in nature: consciousness. How does it feel to be you with your own personal feelings, thoughts and experiences? Every one of us is intimately familiar with consciousness, but no one knows how – or why – it came to be that three pounds of grey matter can generate a subjective point of view. Blending together science and philosophy, The Guardian calls A World Appears unsettling yet lifeaffirming.
320 pages, hardback, £18.
CINEMA RELEASES IN MAY
Uhoh! She’s back! The world’s most difficult boss! Meryl Streep reprises her role this month as Miranda Priestley, Editor in Chief of high fashion magazine Runway in The Devil Wears Prada 2. Former assistant Andy has gone from putupon PA to highflying digital media exec, and her old boss needs her help to secure valuable advertising revenue. Expect a script with waspish putdowns and cameos from Donatella Versace and Lady Gaga. Elsewhere? Entertain the children with The Mandalorian & Grogu, Disney’s extended canon Star Wars spinoff featuring baby Yoda.
Stamford Arts Centre, 01780 763 203, www.stamfordartscentre.com. Cinema for Rutland, 01572 758440, rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk. Odeon Peterborough, 0333 014 4501, www.odeon.co.uk.
Small Comfort
Ia Genberg
Longlisted for the Booker Prize. Small Comfort is an intricately built, and wickedly humorous collection of five interconnected short stories, all about one thing: money. What does it really mean to be in debt to someone? How does our financial worth permeate the ways we think and feel? And what do we lose when we supposedly win? Small Comfort skewers its characters, slyly implicating the reader along the way. Brilliant, original and thoughtprovoking.
384 pages, paperback, £12.99.
MUSIC
The Rodgers and Hart Songbook
Ella Fitzgerald
The undisputed queen of vocal jazz, Ella Fitzgerald released her second album of songbook standards in 1956 and now, 70 years on, it’s being rereleased. The Lady is a Tramp, My Funny Valentine, Blue Moon, and Have You Met Miss Jones are just a few of the tracks that make this album a pleasure to enjoy on vinyl or, if you must, on digital. The album is full of standards that everyone knows and loves, but in Ella's hands these songs become even more special. £65.99, from 27th March 2026.
WELCOME HOME
Handsome & High Tech
Stone Lodge House, Tilton on the Hill
Stone Lodge House is a beautifully reimagined ironstone home that blends Georgian and Edwardian character with a comprehensive modern rebuild, complete with pool, lodge, garaging and state-of-the-art technology
Stone Lodge House looks as though it has always belonged to its landscape, yet inside it offers the confidence of a thoroughly modern rebuild. Julian and Janine Twynham bought it in 2017 seeking privacy and land, after the last of their children had flown the nest.
What they did not anticipate was how much work lay behind the ironstone exterior. The house had not been properly updated for around twenty five years, the heating was erratic and the rear section was bitterly cold. Once they began, the only sensible route was to do the job properly, once.
The building is a blend of periods. There is an original Georgian corner that began life as a farmer’s cottage, an Edwardian extension that broadened the frontage, and what had been a single brick Victorian addition to the rear. That Victorian section has been replaced with a double gabled stone extension that sits naturally
Words: Rob Davis.
against the older roofline, so the house now reads as one cohesive whole, roughly half historic character and half new build precision. It is not listed, which allowed the Twynhams to pursue a sympathetic, practical plan with the council insisting that the new rear should be in stone rather than brick.
Julian credits the craft of builder Craig Woodford of C and L Woodford for the crisp stonework and disciplined pointing, but he is equally proud of the unseen elements. Inside, the old part was stripped back with floors and joists removed, the roof renewed, thick walls relined and replastered, and the whole envelope repointed and refenestrated. On the new section the windows are triple glazed, with double glazing to the rest, all in woodgrained effect frames that keep the traditional look while quietly doing the hard work. The roof is finished in Spanish slate, chosen with a practical eye for quality and value. For day-to-day living the house is planned with real intelligence. There is a snug, a
dining room and a study, plus what the owners call the library, a cosy sitting area with a log burner set alongside the dining space. The main sitting room is double height, a dramatic volume softened by timber detail and tall glazing. In the new section a mezzanine lounge creates another place to retreat, or to gather when the house is full, as it often is with children and grandchildren.
The heart of the house is the bespoke living kitchen, designed for entertaining without ever feeling showy. Cabinetry is by Wychwood, finished in a confident green, with granite worktops and blocks of timber for prep. Copper toned lighting adds a warm gleam above the island, while an oil fired Aga, refurbished from the original, sits alongside Fisher and Paykel appliances and built-in fridges and wine storage. A matching utility keeps the practicalities out of sight.
Upstairs, the principal suite feels like a private hotel, with a dressing room, an en suite that includes a Japanese soaking tub
plus separate shower, and access to an outdoor terrace. A second bedroom enjoys its own shower room, while two further bedrooms are served by a family bathroom, finished with green tiling and a copper bath. An open study area on the landing adds a useful workspace.
Julian has installed a Control4 system that brings lighting, heating and blinds into one network, with scenes and routines that can close blinds after dark and manage comfort room by room. Even the gates have number plate recognition and facial recognition, giving secure, effortless arrivals.
Outside, the plot extends to approximately 6.84 acres approached via double electronic gates, with a heated garage block accommodating eight vehicles and a two bedroom, two bathroom lodge above, complete with a fitted kitchen and a south facing sun deck. The Twynhams have also added solar panels to the garage block, supported by substantial battery storage.
For summer, the grounds become a destination in their own right. A heated ceramic pool, ten metres by four, is edged with stone walls and ironwork, with underwater lighting and a contemporary fountain. Nearby, a purpose-built pool house includes a covered barbecue area, a bar, a sauna, shower room and the discreet pump equipment. There is also a gated pond with native planting and an arbour positioned for long views. The formal gardens have expanded to around one and a half acres, with paddocks beyond and a small menagerie that includes alpacas, a llama and sheep.
Stone Lodge House is finished, immaculate and ready for a new chapter. It is a home built for all seasons. The decision to sell is pragmatic, a move towards family and dayto-day ease, yet the home itself is the culmination of years of careful work. Close enough to Oakham and Uppingham for everyday life, it still offers the rare luxury of feeling entirely your own.
Stone Lodge House
Tilton On The Hill
Location: Oakham 7.5 miles, Uppingham 10.5 miles, Leicester 13.6 miles.
Rooms: Three receptions currently arranged as living kitchen, living room, library. Study/snug. Four bedrooms with two en suites plus selfcontained twobed lodge.
Guide Price £2,600,000.
Find Out More: Naylors, Market Harborough, LE16 7PA. Call 01858 450020 or see www.naylorsestateagents.com.
• Interior Design • Curtains & Blinds
• Upholstery • Lighting • Decorative
H-Works, 33 St. Mary's Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS 01780 754605 www.hworksdesign.co.uk @h_works_interiors
Emerald Everywhere
Luxurious home and garden pieces in lush green tones for May
LUSH FOREST BEDDING
Rich green duvet set with vibrant florals, soft 100% cotton sateen, £100, www.grahambrown.com.
MYRTLE GREEN TABLE
Sleek stained side table with minimalist design, perfect for modern interiors, £629, www.fermliving.co.uk.
EMERALD COCOON CHAIR
A stylish outdoor egg chair with lush green rope and comfort, £649, www.atkinandthyme.co.uk.
LAYERED GLASS PENDANT
Artisan glass pendant light with textured depth and contemporary designer appeal, £435, www.serenzaliving.com.
ZAMBEZI DINING SET
Exquisite Zambezi dinner set with vibrant wildlife, fine bone china, £280, www.emmajshipley.com.
MODERN GREEN NIGHTSTAND
Curved green bedside table with three drawers, stylish storage solution, £320, www.uk.homary.com.
PROUD PEACOCK BENCH
Handcrafted bench in rich peacock tones, striking modern garden statement, £878, www.wolffblitz.com.
BOTTLE GREEN TUB CHAIR
Luxurious bottle green upholstered tub chair with brass frame and comfort, £429, www.myfurniture.com.
DESIGNERS GUILD CUSHION
Linen cushion with painterly botanical print, luxe textured floral statement, £100, www.sheenupholstery.com.
BOTANICAL OUTDOOR RUG
Lush green outdoor rug with botanical motif, for durable stylish flooring, £289, www.rugs.co.uk.
DARK GREEN GOLD VASE
Elegant emerald and gold oval vaseluxe centrepiece for stylish spaces, £145, www.hardtoresist.co.uk.
ORNATE CANDLE LANTERN
Decorative iron garden lantern with green patina for ambient lighting, £125, www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk.
BEVERLEY HILLS JUG
Mouthblown crystal jug with vibrant green leaf, exclusive craftsmanship, £990, www.asprey.com.
VERDIGRIS SUPREME PLANTER
Stylish resin planter with aged verdigris finish — luxury garden accessory, £299, www.foras.co.uk.
ORANGE GROVE WALLCOVERING
Textured green botanical wallpaper with vibrant foliage pattern and designer appeal, £322, www.osborneandlittle.com.
SHADY WAVE WOOL THROW
Sumptuous green wool throw with elegant wave texture: cosy luxury, £74.99, www.thewoolroom.com.
The Stables, Copthill Farm, Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD Visit our showroom 01780 757946
our website www.huntersinteriors.co.uk Our experienced interior designers create timeless spaces tailored just for you
The Wonder of
Wool
Better at regulating temperature. Better at wicking away moisture, perfect for comfortable sleep allyearround, and naturally hypoallergenic too. Natural, sustainable British Wool is the perfect fibre for a luxurious sleep experience and Woolroom is its greatest champion...
Words: Rob Davis.
For happy sheep and a good night’s sleep, you only need to know one name: Woolroom.
Established in 2008 and now owned and run by Stamford’s Chris Tattersall, the company was founded on a seemingly rather obvious question... why don’t we value wool more?
After all, it’s a wonder fibre, if ever there was one. For a start, it’s sustainably produced, by
farmers who care for their flock. It’s also an exceptional material for temperature regulation, ideal for those going through the menopause and it’s superb when it comes to keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer and for wicking away moisture from the body too. It’s hypo-allergenic, and is the only bedding material approved by Allergy UK.
Woolroom’s bedding is proven to boost sleep by 67% and all of the wool the company uses to create its premium duvets, bedding, pillows, mattresses, beds, throws and cushions has been produced in Britain, with an in-house WoolID traceability programme. If you’re seeking better sleep, it just goes to show that where there’s wool, there’s a way...
Woolroom’s Bangor University study uncovers facts about the benefits of sleep and how to achieve better sleep naturally. The study is available to read on Woolroom’s website and highlights wool's ability to combat one of the most common disruptors to sleep; overheating and waking due to perspiration...
Below: Shady Wave cushion cover, pink (aqua, blue, green, natural and yellow available too), 45cm, £28.99
Bottom: Natural wool bedding is good at regulating temperature and moisture, classic wool pillow £62.99, classic wool duvet £129.99/light; £159.99/medium; £169.99/warm, all king, single to superking also available.
Right: Organic cotton bedding in almond (also Earl Gray, marshmallow, pistachio, vanilla and white), £99.99/duvet cover, king; £13.99/pillowcase. Olivia upholstered bedstead, choice of fabrics, £1,986.75/king. Shady wave wool throw, £74.99/130 x 170cm.
Top: Wool fillings are naturally hypoallergenic, fireretardant, and naturally absorbent. It’s cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold, making it the perfect material for bedding.
Above: Sophia upholstered bedstead £2,579.25/king, with hundreds of upholstery combinations to choose from.
Right: Broadway upholstered headboard available in six colours, £269.25. Herringbone Shetland wool throw, £84.99/145 x 185cm. Arinta bed linen in vanilla, £99.99/duvet cover, king; £13.99/pillowcase.
The Woolroom Story
Woolroom was founded out of frustration that such a useful and sustainable natural fibre was being neglected in favour of manufacturers of bedding offering synthetic, unethically produced fibres. Woolroom wanted to provide a financially and ecologically sustainable use for British wool, and today, through its WoolID Traceable Wool Programme, you can trace your bedding back to the Texel, Suffolk, Poll Dorset, Portland, Southdown and Lleyn sheep from which your wool is derived. The company only works with farms that can guarantee the five freedoms outlined in the UK Animal Welfare Act 2006, and via a QR code on your product’s label you can trace your product right back to the farm from which the wool originated.
Woolroom is located on Pillings Road, Oakham, 01780 461217 or you can purchase products online as well as finding out about the importance of sleep via the company’s website, at www.thewoolroom.com.
Chris Tattersall (right) on one of Woolroom’s partner farms.
Chris Tattersall (right) on one Woolroom’s partner farms.
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SARAH HARDING INTERIORS 25 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN
For over 25 years, Sarah Harding Interiors has enjoyed excellent working relationships with clients, providing a full interior design service while also undertaking projects, commissions and bespoke furniture
Exceptional interior design isn’t trend-led or determined by what’s ‘in season.’ Nor is it universal or transposed from project to project, family to family. For 25 years, the prevailing principle of Sarah Harding Interiors is that every client and every project must be approached as something individual and unique, tailored and personal.
“Every home and every room is different, so there’s definitely a practical advantage to creating interiors with bespoke furnishings,” says Sarah. “But every family is unique, too. So our work isn’t shaped by the space, but by the people who live there.”
Working alongside Sarah is her husband John and daughter Alice, plus a wider team of experienced interior designers too. The size of the team and breadth of experience mean that every client can enjoy a personal, thoughtful consultation that reflects the individuality of the client, not only in the collaborative design process, but in the finished design.
“It’s really important to take the time to put the client first, to listen to their ideas and aspirations for their project and to ensure their vision can be realised from idea, to planning, to inspiration, ensuring everything is delivered to budget and on time.”
“A good interior designer will understand the technical details of a project and how to create an interior that’s cohesive.”
Words: Rob Davis.
“It’s a great role and one where no job, no client, is ever the same... we enjoy it, and our reputation is unsurpassed. That’s why we’ve become trusted and respected across Rutland for over 25 years!”
“They’ll also have access to the quality products from fabrics to wallcoverings and paint, to expert furniture makers who can make bespoke soft furnishings, tables, chairs, and sofas to suit your space in terms of size and style.”
“But that’s nothing without a process that allows the client to remain empowered to be part of the process and to create their vision, rather than having an interior designer’s single signature style dictated to them. That’s the opposite of what a good designer should provide. The idea of an interior designer imparting their ideas has been consigned to the past, replaced by a much better experience for the client.”
“One perception that does remain, however, is the idea that an interior designer is only interested in larger projects, a complete home, for example. Nothing could be further from the truth. The size of our team and our ability to project manage ongoing work means we can always accommodate advice and ideas, or to create for clients everything from a set of curtains to fit a specific window, or even a single cushion. We’re always able to help clients to commission something to suit, without compromise.”
“Testimonials that we’ve received have reflected this too. One client said that ‘Sarah has the most amazing talent at finding the look that you actually want rather than trying to influence her taste on you.’
Another said that we ‘listen carefully to your needs and give clients loads of helpful suggestions as well as working within a budget and timescale.’ And a third said that ‘the staff that work in the showroom are definitely the best in the area.’
“And finally, a good interior designer should offset the cost of their services with the quality and longevity of the products they create, but also avoid a client ending up with a scheme they tire of, or with decisions they later regret.”
“We pride ourselves on ensuring happy clients and providing a service that people enjoy engaging with. It’s a great role, and one where no job and no client, is ever the same... we enjoy it, and our reputation is unsurpassed. That’s why we’ve become trusted and respected across Rutland for over 25 years!”
6 Market Place, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9QH. Call 01572 823389. See www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk. On Instagram search for sarahhardinginteriorsltd.
Seeing the
Light
Add space and light to your home, even a listed building or one situated in a conservation area. See the light this season with the addition of a conservatory or orangery from Bespoke Rutland, a trusted family business with over 30 years’ experience
Words: Rob Davis.
There can’t be a single family across Rutland and Stamford who wouldn’t welcome more space at home. From an additional reception room in which to entertain friends to a generous living kitchen where the family can gather at the end of a busy day, adding a luxury orangery or conservatory is an elegant and relatively straightforward way to achieve exactly that.
And for really discerning people, who value quality and a seamless experience, Bespoke Rutland provides a complete turnkey service that removes the stress and uncertainty from extending your home.
An orangery or conservatory is far more than a simple addition. It is an investment in the way you live. Done properly, it will transform both your property and your day-to-day life.
Bespoke Rutland is a family run company with more than 30 years of experience, and is now headed up by Faye Vaughan. Under Faye’s creative direction, the business has earned an enviable reputation for craftsmanship, attention to detail and a genuinely personal approach.
“We’re incredibly proud to be a family-run company,” says Faye. “Our clients trust us with their homes, and that’s something we never take lightly. Every project is personal to us.”
Every commission begins with a detailed conversation about how the family lives and what they want their new space to achieve.
“People often come to us because they simply need more room,” Faye explains.
“But very quickly the conversation becomes about lifestyle. Do they want a calm reception room for entertaining, or a large open-plan living kitchen where everyone naturally comes together?”
“Our job is to listen carefully and then guide them towards the best possible solution.”
One of the company’s greatest strengths is that it offers a true turnkey service with a single point of contact from start to finish. Initial concepts, measured surveys and architectural drawings are all handled in-house. The team advises on planning consent where required and has considerable experience dealing with listed buildings and properties within conservation areas. Building regulations approval is managed on the client’s behalf, ensuring complete peace of mind.
“A major extension can feel daunting,” says Faye. “That’s why we manage everything, from the very first plans through to the final decorative finishes. Our clients don’t have to juggle different contractors or worry about who is responsible for what. We oversee the whole installation so the process feels organised and reassuring.”
This careful project management continues on site, where skilled trades are coordinated to deliver a cohesive, high-quality finish. From the main structure to flooring, heating, lighting and decoration, every element is considered as part of a whole.
In practical terms, modern orangeries offer impressive levels of insulation and performance. Combining solid masonry elements with
generous glazing and elegant roof lanterns, they achieve a refined balance between solidity and light. The result is a room that feels connected to the garden yet remains comfortable in every season.
For many households, the most popular brief is a living kitchen extension. “A well-designed open plan kitchen with dining and seating areas can completely transform family life.”
“It becomes the heart of the home. You cook, eat, relax and entertain all in one beautiful space filled with natural light.” Others prefer a more formal reception room, perfect for
hosting guests during the summer months or enjoying a quiet evening retreat.
Whatever the vision, thoughtful design is essential. With more than three decades of experience and a steadfast commitment to quality, Bespoke Rutland ensures that each project feels like a natural and elegant evolution of the property.
Faye and the team guide the journey from first sketch to the final flourish. Bespoke Rutland creates rooms that not only add value to a home, but enrich the lives of those who live there.
Bespoke Rutland ensures that each project feels like a natural and elegant evolution of the property
Bespoke Rutland is based in Ketton, visits by appointment only, call 01780 722401 or see www.bespokerutland.co.uk.
GARDENING with MARK LANE
As spring’s first flourish begins to fade and the promise of summer waits in the wings, May is a month of quiet transformation in the garden. Now is the time to nurture young plants, plan for lasting colour and fill the gap between bulbs and high summer with thoughtful planting that will reward you for seasons to come
Words & Images: Mark Lane.
May is here, and summer is in the air. Flower shows and seasonal events across Rutland and Stamford, from Burghley in bloom to open gardens throughout the Welland Valley, help to kick off the gardening season, but May, in the garden, can be an odd time. All of the beauty of spring bulbs is coming to an end, and the garden itself is just starting to get going.
I love visiting the flower shows, presenting at them for the BBC and writing about them, but show gardens only depict a garden or planting scheme as a set or static week in all its glory, often with plants forced or held back by skilled nurserymen and women.
Our gardens in May, however, can sometimes feel deflated. Before summer species start to flower, borders, pots and containers can look a little lacking in colour, form and texture, but I am delighted to say that many plants can help fill the spring to summer gap.
What I have realised while trying to juggle a busy filming schedule, managing my garden design projects and writing, is that actually taking your time to review and reinvent areas of your garden is paramount. In other words, do not rush into creating a new border or planting scheme. It will take time, as and when money permits.
The ‘Chelsea Chop’
In late May, prune back a third of your perennials, known as the Chelsea Chop, to
stagger and prolong flowering. The cuttings from these and tender perennials, such as fuchsia, argyranthemum and pelargonium, as well as the new shoots of hardy perennials, can be used for cuttings. This is a great way to increase your plant stock for free and does not take too much time.
Hardening off plants
May is the perfect time to start hardening off hardy and non hardy bedding plants raised under glass or indoors. This year I have gone a little crazy and sowed a lot of seed back in March, and the young plants now need to get ready to be planted outside.
Hardening off simply means introducing the plant to outside temperatures slowly, bringing it in each night, and gradually extending the number of hours outside. For us here in Rutland and Stamford, the middle of May, around the time of the Chelsea Flower Show, is a sensible point to start the hardening off process, depending of course on the forecast.
As my dahlias are still young, but already filling out, I might add some jute string netting to the borders, laid horizontally at different heights and fixed to thick bamboo canes in the corners. Once in flower, the netting will disappear.
It is important to remember to support your dahlias, as many have large flowers which weigh quite a bit. Dahlias have had a resurgence in popularity over the last few years, and rightly so, in my opinion. I will also add some upturned pots filled with straw to collect earwigs, and to keep them off my precious dahlia flowers, which they love.
First year flowering perennials
Most of the time when we think about growing plants from seed, we look primarily at annuals and biennials, but some great first year flowering perennials are easy to grow and will fill your borders for months on end. The first thing to remember is that seed packets can contain hundreds or just a handful of seeds. For the former, think about how big your
Opposite: Mark’s Chelsea Show Garden from 2019. 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.
border or container is and sow just enough, perhaps with an additional ten per cent in case of any casualties along the way. In other words, there is no point sowing one hundred seeds of a plant that is going to grow to thirty centimetres in width unless you have a very large border or lots of containers to fill. Remember also that perennials come back year after year, so there is no wastage like annuals or biennials, which end up on the compost heap, saving you money in the long run.
So, if you want summer and autumn colour, scent and interest this year and subsequent years, sow perennial seeds now until July. Many gardeners are put off from growing perennials from seed, fearing that they will take too long to grow, but sowing perennials early in the year will result in flowers to be proud of.
Shrubs and trees to fill your garden
When it comes to shrubs and trees during May, it is hard to beat hawthorn, viburnum, osmanthus, exochorda, magnolia, lilac, cornus
May in the Garden
and weigela. The May tree, hawthorn or Crataegus monogyna, has fragrant white flowers in May, followed by spherical, glossy, dark red fruit, and deeply lobed, glossy, dark green leaves. It makes a great specimen plant or as a boundary hedge, particularly suited to both town and country gardens across our region.
When it comes to viburnum, there are several to choose from. I love Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum ‘Pink Beauty’, which has gorgeous white, lacecap style flowers in late spring that mature to pink, and toothed, deeply veined, dark green leaves that turn red purple in autumn. Viburnum opulus roseum, however, is smothered with large, snowball like clusters of white or green tinted white flowers that sometimes age to pink. Perfect for May wedding bouquets.
For elegant beauty, it is hard to beat a magnolia shrub or tree as a specimen plant. Magnolia ‘Susan’ has narrow goblet shaped, fragrant flowers that emerge from slender,
n Tie in climbing and rambling roses. Lay the stems horizontally to help produce more flowers. Also, support clematis, sweet peas and beans, before they become unruly.
n Prune springflowering shrubs immediately after flowering.
n If growing tomatoes, courgettes and pumpkins outdoors, then you’ll need to harden them off for planting early next month.
n Protect strawberries with straw (to control weeds and to lift the berries off the soil) and netting (to keep birds off the fruit).
n Plant out summer bedding, once frost has passed. Enrich the soil with compost and ensure containers have drainage holes.
n Pinching out the tips of plants such as cosmos, fuchsias and chrysanthemums encourages bushier growth and more flowers.
n Aphids, slugs and vine weevils become active this month. Encourage natural predators — ladybirds, hoverflies, frogs and birds — by maintaining habitat diversity. Handpick where practical and avoid chemicals and pesticides.
n Deadhead tulips (unless you’re saving seed), but leave foliage to die back naturally — the leaves replenish the bulb for next season.
dark burgundy buds. These open to slightly twisted burgundy petals on the outside and paler on the inside.
Flowers fit for a bride
In addition to viburnums, for pure white, scented flowers, the two varieties of Osmanthus that come to mind are Osmanthus x burkwoodii and Osmanthus delavayi. Both are scented like jasmine, and both are evergreen with dark green serrated leaves, making them fine specimens in your garden or wedding bouquet.
Plan your borders for months of colour
When it comes to bulbs, rhizomes and herbaceous perennials, a collection of aquilegia, geum, wild violet, bearded iris, Siberian iris, peony, martagon lily, Libertia chilensis, Pimpinella major rosea, epimedium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Hesperis matronalis, freesia, acanthus, delphinium and hardy geranium will all keep your borders looking stunning in later spring and throughout the summer months.
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. Verbascum.
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 attractive detached 1920s residence, beautifully positioned in a private setting on a generous plot within the historic market town of Uppingham. This elegant home is complemented by mature landscaped Gardens, a single Garage and ample Parking. Exuding timeless character and charm, the property has been sympathetically maintained and thoughtfully enhanced to blend period elegance with contemporary comfort. 2 Reception Rooms, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms. Energy Rating: D.
BILLESDON
£455,000
A charming, detached period cottage offering tastefully presented and well-proportioned family accommodation with 2 Reception Rooms, Farmhouse Kitchen, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath/Shower Rooms, Garage, Workshop and attractively landscaped, good-size Garden in a picturesque village. Energy Rating: C.
£798,000
A delightful and substantial period residence, offering beautifully presented accommodation comprising 3 Reception Rooms, 6 generous Bedrooms and 2 Bath/Shower Rooms, occupying a plot of approximately 1.1 acres (in total) within a picturesque village with open rural views to the rear. Carport, secure Parking, Outbuilding with Workshop, Private Garden, Paddock. Energy Rating: F.
Guide Price £595,000
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. CALDECOTT
period farmhouse with double garage and good-size gardens set in a picturesque rural location and offering substantial character accommodation briefly comprising: Reception Hall, Snug, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Diner, Utility, Cloakroom/WC, Boiler Room, Office, 5 Double Bedrooms, two of them with en-suite Bath/Shower Rooms, Family Bathroom, Attic Room. Extra charge: £300.00 pcm for gardener's services. Energy Rating: E
St. Leonards Street
Stamford
Nestled on historic St Leonard’s Street in the heart of Stamford, this Grade II listed Georgian stone townhouse combines period character with a fascinating local history. Dating from the 18th century, the property showcases ashlar stone elevations, a traditional stone-slate roof, and handsome rectangular bay windows with nineteenth-century glazing that flood the interior with light.
Price: £1,250,000
Goodwin Property 2-3 St Johns Street, Stamford, PE9 2DA. Call
Chapel Farm Barns
Ashton Guide Price: £995,000
This beautifully appointed four bedroom stone barn conversion offers impressively proportioned accommodation across three floors, combining character, contemporary style and far reaching views over its garden and 0.95 acre paddock. Honeysuckle Barn forms part of an exceptional farmyard development completed in 2016. This private, gated enclave sits on the edge of the Conservation village of Ashton.
Defined equally by respect for its heritage and commitment to future living, Cottesmore Grange is a home of quiet grandeur. Once of humble proportions, now evolved into a spacious six-bedroom retreat complemented by a self-contained two-bedroom apartment, wrapped within 4 ½ acres of tended gardens and wilder, reclaimed grounds, it is a home shaped by duality; cultivated yet natural, historic yet renewed.
Guide price: £2,000,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Cottesmore Grange
Cottesmore
Barley House Wothorpe
Offers in Excess of £2,000,000
Churchgate, Hallaton
The Grange is a distinguished Grade II listed four-bedroom home with coach house, gardens, paddock, lake and woodland. A rare opportunity blending historic charm and modernisation potential, set within the sought-after village of Hallaton.
Church Lane, East Norton
Brookfield, built in 1750, is a Grade II listed four-bedroom ironstone and red brick home, full of character and period features, set on over half an acre in the charming Leicestershire village of East Norton.
Offers in Excess of £1,250,000
Main Street, Teigh
Linden Lea, converted in 2000, is an impressive four/fivebedroom stone-and-brick barn conversion offering versatile accommodation, set in mature grounds with outbuildings and countryside views in peaceful Teigh village, Rutland.
Water Lane, Ashwell
A newly built three-bedroom ironstone home on a generous plot with off-road parking, a garage, and a west-facing garden, located on a quiet lane in the popular village of Ashwell.
High Street
Uppingham
51-53 High Street is a beautifully presented period home being offered to the market for the for the 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
Little Barnsdale Oakham
Little Barnsdale enjoys a prime position just a short walk from the thriving and picturesque market town of Oakham, nestled in the heart of Rutland.
Guide Price: £1,250,000
King West 13 St Mary's Street, Stamford PE9 2DE Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk
Main Road
Barleythorpe
An elegant five-bedroom residence, constructed in brick with cladding and finished to a high specification, offering spacious open-plan living areas, private gardens, off-road parking, and garaging.
Guide Price: £1,200,000
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
Birch Field House
Belmesthorpe
Amid the quiet lanes and quaint cottages of Belmesthorpe, architecture takes a confident turn at Birch Field House, where contemporary zinc and glass gleam against green pastures and village stone.
Guide Price: £1,250,000
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.
£995,000
Hurfords 38 St. Marys Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS. Call 01780 752136 or see www.hurfords.co.uk
Hereward Place
Stamford
An impressive six-bedroom executive home, beautifully crafted from stone, and located just a short walk from the heart of Stamford's vibrant town centre.
£1,050,000
Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk
Orchard House
Stamford
Nestled in one of Stamford's most sought-after addresses, this spacious four-bedroom detached family home presents an exciting opportunity for renovation or redevelopment (STPP).
£1,500,000
Nest Estates 8-9 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA. Call 01780 238110 or see www.nestestates.co.uk
The Engine House
Burley
Steeped in heritage and shaped by centuries of architectural evolution, The Engine House offers a graceful meeting of history, craftsmanship and quiet contemporary living.
Guide Price: £1,400,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
The Old House Ketton
The house dates from 1789 and is Grade II listed. It is constructed of mellow stone elevations under a thatch and slate roof, is arranged over two storeys.
Guide Price: £1,275,000
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: £1,000,000
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
Drywell House
Barrowden
Blending timeless craftsmanship with natural materials and creative design, Drywell House offers a home that is as stylish as it is enduring
Guide Price: £2,250,000
Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497 070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk
Swooning House
Oakham
Swooning House is a distinguished five-bedroom residence set on arguably Oakham’s most desirable residential plot, just a short walk from the town centre.
Guide Price £1,250,000
Murray Market Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DY. Call 01572 755555 or see www.murray.co.uk
Main Street
Great Casterton
Nestled in the sought-after village, this beautifully presented 5-bedroom detached family home is a sanctuary unto itself. As you step inside, you are greeted by character features that add charm and elegance to each room.
Offers in Excess of: £1,250,000
Willow & Stone Orion House, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE. Call 01780 431218 or see www.willowandstoneproperties.co.uk
High House
Braunston
High House stands in the heart of the village, its striking ironstone façade and Collyweston roof making a distinctive impression.
Guide Price: £1,195,000
Strutt & Parker 5 South View, Tinwell Road, Stamford PE9 2JL. Call 01780 510039 or see www.struttandparker.com
The properties featured here represent just a selection of what we currently have available. A significant number of our homes are marketed discreetly, so we would encourage you to register with us for early access to these
With an ever-growing database of qualified buyers seeking new instructions, we are also well placed to introduce proceedable purchasers on an off-market basis. If you are considering a move, please do get in touch.
Swallow Hole Farm, Saltby
Swallow Hole Farm, Saltby
Brookside Cottage, John O' Gaunt
Manor Farm House, Burrough On The Hill
The Cloisters, Wymondham
Church Street, Langham
Swallow Hole Farm, Saltby
Swallow Hole Farm, Saltby Willoughby Drive, Empingham
A beautifully refurbished and thoughtfully reconfigured 3 bed detached bungalow, offering stylish open-plan living, 2 en-suites and landscaped private gardens, positioned within the highly regarded Rutland village of Empingham.
St. Albans, Oakham
Substantially
Wish you were here?
An insight into the property market with Vernon & Jenny Moore, founders of Moores Estate Agents and Country & Equestrian
As late spring gives way to early summer, the property market across Rutland, Stamford and the surrounding areas enters one of its most influential periods.
Meanwhile, Vernon Moore is planning a trip to London. He’ll be introducing potential buyers to what could be their dream property, but also, to one of the best places to live in Britain... Rutland and Stamford!
Rather than waiting for buyers to discover the area, Vernon and his team are taking the conversation directly to them. “We’re now going down to London to meet buyers face to face,” he explains. “Many of them are already under offer on their properties and are starting to look seriously at where they want to move next.”
These visits take the form of carefully arranged property clinics, hosted in collaboration with London agents. Here, potential buyers are introduced not just to
individual homes, but to the wider lifestyle on offer in this part of the country. It is a crucial distinction.
“People often begin their search with quite a fixed idea,” Vernon says. “They might think they need to be near a particular station or motorway. Many know of Stamford, for example, but might not have considered the surrounding areas. Once you explain the realities of travel, schooling and day-to-day life, their perspective can change quite quickly.”
That role – part agent, part ambassador – is increasingly central. Buyers relocating from London are not simply purchasing a house, they are choosing an entirely new way of living.
Understanding the nuances between, say, Grantham and Peterborough rail links, or the character of different villages and market towns, can be the difference between a tentative enquiry and a committed move.
The impact of such conversations becomes evident in June, when many of these buyers make their first visits to the area.
To accommodate them, Moores organises a series of open house weekends, structured around price ranges. This allows buyers to view multiple properties in a single visit, gaining a broader sense of what is available and how far their budget will stretch.
“People naturally search by price, so we group properties accordingly and make it as easy as possible for them to see several options in one trip.”
What becomes clear is that this is not simply about marketing individual homes, but about widening the pool of potential buyers. Those already searching locally remain important, but by engaging with London-based purchasers earlier in their journey, Moores is able to introduce properties to people who may not yet have settled on a specific destination.
“If you rely solely on website marketing, you are speaking to buyers who have already decided to move here,” Vernon says. “We are also proactively reaching those who are still deciding where to go.”
That distinction can be significant. Buyers from outside the area often arrive with greater flexibility and, in many cases, increased buying power, having sold smaller properties in the capital. For sellers, this can translate into stronger offers and smoother transactions.
Ultimately, it reflects a broader philosophy. Property is never just about bricks and mortar. It is about place, connection and the confidence to make a change. By guiding buyers through that bigger picture, Moores continues to position itself not simply as an agent, but as a trusted partner in one of life’s most important decisions.
Moores Estate Agents and the company’s Country & Equestrian brand provide professional, proactive property services for buyers and sellers of homes across the region. Familyowned and established in 2005, the company offers free initial advice tailored to your personal circumstances, call 01572 757979 or see www.mooresestateagents.com.
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Also: Massage, LED phototherapy, manicures and pedicures
AT THE STONEYGATE EYE HOSPITAL Caring for your Vision
When it comes to our eyesight, few things matter more.
The ability to read clearly, to drive with confidence or to recognise faces across a room is something most of us take for granted until it begins to change. For patients across Rutland, Stamford and the wider East Midlands, The Stoneygate Eye Hospital in Leicester offers something rather special: the region’s only private eye hospital, dedicated exclusively to ophthalmic care.
Established in 2013, the hospital has built a reputation for consultant-led excellence. With nine highly experienced consultants, including three partners, patients are assured that their care is overseen by senior specialists at every stage. Set in a leafy, residential location, the hospital feels calm and discreet, more akin to a private residence than a clinical environment. It is an atmosphere designed to reassure from the moment you step through the door.
Treatments
Cataract surgery is among the hospital’s most frequently performed procedures, and for good reason. Cataracts remain one of the commonest causes of deteriorating vision, particularly as we age. Patients often describe increasing cloudiness, glare from headlights or difficulty reading fine print.
While NHS waiting times can extend to sixteen weeks or more, The Stoneygate Eye Hospital works in collaboration with the NHS to dramatically shorten that pathway, often reducing waits for private treatment to as little as a week or two.
As a specialist cataract centre, the hospital also offers advanced private treatment options that go beyond standard monofocal implants. Multifocal lenses, for example, can provide the equivalent of bifocal spectacles, helping to reduce dependence on glasses for both distance and near vision. For many patients, this represents not simply restored sight but enhanced visual freedom.
Oculoplastics is another common area of treatment and focuses on the delicate structures around the eye. This includes the management of blepharitis, eyelid cysts and tumours, watery eyes and lacrimal bypass tube treatment. The hospital’s oculoplastic consultants have decades of experience each, and can also undertake cosmetic procedures such as blepharoplasty and facial plastic surgery in the eye region, offering subtle results delivered by surgeons who understand both function and aesthetics.
Beyond cataracts and oculoplastics, The Stoneygate Eye Hospital provides a comprehensive range of specialist services. Yag laser procedures are available for laser vision correction procedures, including Lasik and Lasek, which offer life-changing improvements for those wishing to reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses.
Retinal conditions such as detached retina and troublesome eye floaters are also treated, as are glaucoma, corneal disease and complex cases requiring corneal transplant procedures.
Clinical excellence is only part of the story. Compassion, excellence and integrity are equally important to the hospital...
Patients can be assessed, treated and followed up within a single specialist setting, rather than navigating multiple providers.
Accessing Care
Patients may self-refer directly, whilst referrals are also welcomed from any GP or from optometrists or ophthalmologists. Patients attend because their vision needs remediation, because they are experiencing pain or discomfort, because another primary care service has recommended further assessment, or for cosmetic concerns.
For those choosing private treatment, a range of self-pay pathways is available. Transparent pricing ensures clarity from the outset. Finance packages are also offered, including a twelve-month interest-free option, enabling patients to spread the cost of
treatment if they wish. In addition, the hospital works with most major health insurance providers, making the administrative process straightforward for insured patients.
Ethos
Clinical excellence is only part of the story.
The Stoneygate Eye Hospital is underpinned by five core values: excellence, integrity, equality, compassion and collaboration.
These are reflected in the way patients are greeted, the time consultants spend explaining options and the meticulous standards applied in theatre.
The hospital also holds a Care Quality Commission rating of Good and is proud of its collaborative working relationship with the NHS.
Patient feedback further reinforces its standing. There are more than three hundred reviews on Google, over one hundred and sixty on Doctify and numerous testimonials on Trustpilot and the hospital’s own website.
The East Midlands’ only private eye hospital, The Stoneygate Eye Hospital is a place where modern ophthalmology meets traditional values of patient-centred care, delivering a clear vision in every sense of the word.
The Stoneygate Eye Hospital in Leicester is the East Midlands’ only dedicated private eye hospital offering consultant-led diagnosis and treatments for a range of conditions. For more information call 0116 270 8033 or see www.thestoneygateeyehospital.co.uk.
Rob Davis, Executive Editor, Pride Magazines & Portfolio
WELCOME TO PORTFOLIO
Frustratingly, the whole of Lincolnshire, Rutland and Leicestershire currently finds itself in a state of limbo. As Pride goes to press, the consultation on local government reorganisation is due to close.
Four proposals for a new Lincolnshire have been put forward (you can view the options at www.gov.uk), with a decision expected in the summer, possibly as early as July.
Rutland has submitted three proposals of its own, with our preference—and that of Alicia Kearns— being for Rutland to join Stamford, or whichever area South Kesteven ultimately aligns with, while retaining its ceremonial county status. Sadly, it now seems less likely that Rutland will align with Lincolnshire, and more likely that it will instead be attached to Leicestershire… although not if we, or our local MP, have anything to do with it.
Should Rutland ultimately join Lincolnshire, it would do so under the latter’s Combined County Authority, headed by Dame Andrea Jenkyns, who was elected as the first Combined County Authority (CCA) Mayor in May 2025.
This month, we catch up with Andrea a year into the role to explore why the position differs significantly from that of a civic mayor, and how it is already proving capable of unlocking meaningful investment and opportunities for longterm strategic planning across Lincolnshire— and, hopefully, Rutland too.
Elsewhere in this month’s Portfolio, we preview spring/summer fashion from some excellent local brands, share history and trivia on our Almanac pages, and enjoy a test drive of the newest and most advanced version of Porsche’s iconic 911 sports car.
Our best wishes for a great month.
Rob Davis, Executive Editor, Pride Magazines
A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF THE MAYOR
On 1st May 2025, Dame Andrea Jenkyns was elected as the first Mayor of Lincolnshire’s newlyestablished Combined County Authority. A year on Andrea she reveals what happened next and tells us why, even a year into the job, she’s still ‘just getting started’
Words: Rob Davis.
50years ago, Harold Wilson remarked that ‘a week is a long time in politics.’ That was the era before social media and before the 24-hour news cycle.
It was also prior to the obsolescence of Lincolnshire’s historic Lindsey, Holland and Kesteven divisions (which had existed since 1889), in favour of our existing countywide Lincolnshire administration and the subsequent creation of our current district, borough and Lincoln City councils.
Half a century later, in modern politics (national or regional) much more can happen in the space of a week, never mind a year, as Lincolnshire’s first county-wide Mayor, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, is acutely aware. Following the inaugural mayoral election on 1st May 2025, Andrea was voted into the role, securing a majority of 40,000 and a total of 104,133 votes.
It was a nasty, very personal process. “It was a horrible, bruising campaign. It was emotionally draining, and if I’m honest, it nearly broke me,” she said at the time.
“It didn’t need to get as vicious. It got very personal with some of the candidates. But something in me said ‘I’m not going to let you get away with it.’”
A year on, Andrea has put that behind her, and now works well alongside even her most bitter former critics, describing most relationships as constructive as she approaches a year in the role.
Andrea wasn’t just stepping into an existing role; she was defining a whole new one, designed to benefit the county by means of greater devolved power and a more direct working relationship with Westminster than Lincolnshire has ever been able to secure. Given that Lincolnshire already has parish, borough, district and county councils, some were sceptical of another tier of bureaucracy. Meanwhile the title of Mayor was generally understood by the public to involve wearing chains and cutting ribbons, which is a real misnomer in Andrea’s case. The role is radically different to that of a ceremonial mayor.
“We had a budget to work with in the first year and we’ve managed to carry some of that budget over to use in our second year. I don’t believe in just spending money for the sake of it, and I haven’t gone crazy spending that budget.”
In fact, Andrea’s role is much more about high-level strategy. It’s also about setting out priorities, securing funding and stimulating growth across Lincolnshire, with vast potential beyond big challenges... as a year in the job has shown.
“It’s been a year now… and what a year,” Andrea says. We’re in her office on the first floor of Lincolnshire County Council’s offices on Newland. A year ago Andrea had neither the office nor her team, and had to secure both.
“I suppose there was a precedent in the sense of figures like Andy Burnham but really I was creating the role from scratch,” she says.
“Being a minister for a time I did have an idea of how I was going to approach the role, and I had been elected on the strength of my manifesto, but it was a case of sitting down with Lee Sirdifield (who had previously served as interim chief operating officer before being appointed to the role of Chief Executive in February 2026), and starting to plan how to deliver what we promised.”
“I’m not a politician who believes in just saying something to get a vote, and when politicians do that and fail to deliver, people soon lose faith in them. The role is one with a really wide brief, which does present a challenge, but that’s also what will ensure a Combined County Authority Mayor can deliver the most powerful change.”
So… what does the Mayor do? For a start, like MPs, there’s a huge volume of casework.
“At first I had no one in my direct team, so I was answering my own casework for months, on matters that individuals and businesses could bring to my desk. I was receiving about 5,000 emails relating to casework alone every month. It took ages to recruit someone, and that someone was Josh Turner who now works alongside Grant Clark and Maria Starnes. They’ve managed the caseload really well and cleared the backlog last autumn.”
As well as casework, the office has around 40 projects under consideration at any one time, of which some may prove to be impractical or may not deliver significant economic benefits and therefore remain unlikely to
proceed. Those that do are likely to be of a scale that will necessitate years of planning but will deliver huge advantage.
“We had a budget to work with in the first year and we’ve managed to carry some of that budget into our second year. I don’t believe in just spending money and I haven’t gone crazy spending that budget.”
“I think it’s important to lay down foundations and complete feasibility studies to see if there’s a business case for each of the investments that we believe have true potential before we commit to them.”
“When I was an MP, I developed a lot of embassy contacts, so I’ve been working with the Danish, US and Taiwanese embassies and the Indian High Commission to secure memoranda of understanding (MOUs) for future cooperation at a regional level.”
Closer to home, Andrea delivered the budget for her second year in which she announced £53m of additional Local Growth Funding, and more than £131m, which is set aside for transport improvements.
With direct access to the Prime Minister, Andrea can pitch for, and gain access to, funding at the bi-monthly meeting of England’s 14 elected metropolitan mayors.
Andrea is in the room with Greater London’s Sadiq Khan, Greater Manchester’s Andy Burnham and the other mayors, as well as the Prime Minister and senior government figures such as the Deputy Prime Minister, Secretary of State or Skills Minister.
“It’s actually a really constructive, collegiate opportunity,” says Andrea. “You can talk about your area with the other mayors, tell them about the issues that communities face and also discuss some of the things you’re working on. It’s a different atmosphere to what you’re used to seeing in the Commons and we’re not competing against one another as political parties.”
“Sadiq Khan, for instance, invited us up to see how Transport for London works as I’m keen to set up a similar joined-up initiative here, Transport for Greater Lincolnshire (TGFL).
We’ve two travel hub pilot schemes in North Hykeham and Gainsborough. Sadiq was very supportive; he offered to organise his team reaching out to us to show us around TfL.”
“We’ve already set up the board, again with the agencies, key decision makers and transport providers all there at the table together to deliver joined-up policies and strategy.”
“The aim is to establish a travel app which will combine live travel information and the location of electric vehicle infrastructure with rail and bus services and walking routes, simplifying the use of public transport, and providing transport for senior citizens, veterans and care system-leavers.”
“But it can also incorporate heritage sites, visitor attractions and routes like the Viking Way and English Coast Path so that we can unlock tourism potential too. On top of that we’ve secured £76m for highways maintenance and road upgrades.”
In practice, I asked, does affiliation to one political party or another prove to be a sticking point when trying to secure funding?
“Yes,” says Andrea. “Definitely. You’ve either got to be a member of the incumbent party or be able to pester people relentlessly… I’m good at doing the latter and I’m happy to do it, if it means Lincolnshire can benefit from the funding I can secure as a result.”
On the subject of collegiate relations with the party to which you’re affiliated, in Andrea’s manifesto was the employment of more scrutiny to prevent wasteful spending, akin to Trump’s much-vaunted Department of Government Efficiency (‘DOGE’).
In practice Andrea now regularly works with Lincolnshire County Council’s leader Sean Matthews to identify efficiencies by scrutinising the council’s PLA spreadsheet line by line each month.
Among Andrea’s mayoral brief is inward investment, business engagement and the development of skills, too. Her Great Lincolnshire Exhibition took place in October, with 90 exhibitors, 700 delegates and companies such as Associated British Ports and Siemens represented across fields
as diverse as agriculture, food and farming, plus AI and technology sectors.
The Great Lincolnshire Exhibition will return in 2026, but Andrea has also set aside £20m in her 2026/2027 budget for the creation of an Inventors’ Angel programme to promote innovation and a Mayoral Digital Academy to secure the most relevant future skillsets such as software coding, and to bridge the skills gap between engineering and technology across multiple sectors.
For Lincolnshire’s farmers, a new Farming Industry Technology & Innovation programme will also help our farmers to access new technology, improve productivity and strengthen UK food security. And on 28th April the first meeting of a new triannual Mayor’s Business Guild will convene for networking, operating alongside an Investors’ Fund to help turn innovation into workable businesses. The aim is to keep talent here in the county.
Generally, Andrea is keen to facilitate interagency partnerships at the events, and to bring together agencies for more productive, joined-up working relationships.
A good example is the Greater Lincolnshire Enhanced Water Partnership which will align resources and agencies from the Environment Agency and internal drainage boards, plus Anglian Water and the county’s farmers, to both maintain infrastructure and prevent losses and shortages, but also protect against flooding events in the future and ensure sufficient supply of water to new housing developments.
Andrea continues to rally against large-scale solar farms, which collectively total 40,000 acres of land. Much of that land will be taken out of farming and food production when major projects are green-lit by means of Ed Miliband’s large-scale Landmark Planning and Infrastructure designation. >>
“My aim is to build a county where people can find good jobs close to home and where family businesses can feel secure and supported in their communities...”
Almost 10% of the UK’s groundmounted solar infrastructure is already located here in Lincolnshire, reducing domestic food production and increasing Britain’s reliance on more volatile international food supply chains.
Huge solar farms are among the most contentious issues for Lincolnshire residents, and one of the topics most likely to cause locals to gnash their teeth.
Good job, then, that Andrea recently opened the University of Lincoln’s new £1.5m Lincolnshire Institute of Dental and Oral Health (LIDOH). “My own son had to wait two years to get a tooth out, and the desperate need for more available dentistry in the county meant that it was one of the first services we invested in,” she says.
“When a historic failure of investment in such a basic service manifests itself as a young child enduring dental pain you really do want to find practical solutions. And that’s what we have now with a school that, as both a teaching unit and working practice, can treat patients immediately, whilst serving to train future hygienists and dentists too.”
“Already in Britain though, there are peripatetic community dentists who work across different clinics, and I want to conduct
a trial to see if we can bring dentistry to rural communities. It just requires somebody to employ joined-up thinking and explore possibilities for a better way of working.”
“Healthcare doesn’t come directly under my remit but when I see a problem I feel compelled to try to fix it, and so I’m due to meet with our local NHS Integrated Care Board to discuss the delivery of local healthcare, because I just don’t believe it’s right to simply say ‘that’s not under my remit.’”
Among Andrea’s other plans are the creation of tourism videos that link in with her planned transport app, plus the promotion of literacy with funds for the delivery of a ‘gold-standard’ inter-agency project to help 200,000 of the least literate people in Lincolnshire overcome the economic barriers that result from being unable to read and write to a reasonable standard.
The most ambitious plan, though, is for the creation of an entire new town. Currently subject to an ongoing feasibility study, it’s an example of how Andrea and the role of a county mayor is not about short-term initiatives or projects. Rather it’s concerned with the creation of larger, long-term economic growth through infrastructure and major investment.
After a year in the job, rather than being overwhelmed by the vast scope of her role, Andrea is emboldened by it.
“The wheel really is starting to turn for Greater Lincolnshire,” she says. “Our aim is to build a county where people can find good jobs close to home and where families and businesses can feel secure and supported in their communities.”
“For many years the national decisions that have been made have often reflected the needs of larger urban areas, and too often rural and coastal communities have faced slower investment and fewer opportunities.”
“We now have a chance to put Lincolnshire people first, and in this role I have the resources and the authority to do just that.”
“Some of the projects we’re working on are slow-burners by virtue of their scale, but they’re also greater in ambition and reward, and that’s exactly what this role involves.”
“I’ve had a busy year, but already a year that shows what potential this role has to deliver a blueprint for Greater Lincolnshire. I may have been in the role for a year, but there’s much more to come in the future. I’m still just getting started!”
See www.greaterlincolnshire-cca.gov.uk.
OMAR OASIS
NOW AVAILABLE AT TALLINGTON LAKES
Sleek, with clean lines and a distinctive front featuring four sets of bi-folding doors, the side-facing Omar Oasis is stunning both internally and externally, and impossible not to love.
Featuring three bedrooms, this bespoke super lodge can only be found at Tallington Lakes and has stunning views over farmland from the living area and two of the three bedrooms. It’s somewhere you will enjoy spotting everything from rabbits and deer to all sorts of birds, from the smallest robin to elegant red kites and gorgeous barn owls.
With elegant, clean lines, every effort has been made to ensure that this home provides a feeling of warmth and comfort throughout. Attention to detail has been paramount in the design of this lodge, with brushed chrome light switches and sockets, many of which feature integrated USB points. Curtains and blinds are also included throughout. Lighting comes predominantly from recessed spotlighting.
The contemporary fitted kitchen comes equipped with all of the white goods you will need, neatly integrated within. The spacious living area features two ‘L’-shaped sofas, making the most of the views, while a generous modern dining table offers ample room for family mealtimes. Offering peace and solitude, the three bedrooms all contain sumptuous beds, bedside tables and wardrobes as standard. Finally, the two bathrooms provide a luxurious space in which to relax and unwind.
For those who don’t know Tallington Lakes, our luxurious lodges are set within over 300 acres of beautiful lakeland, with the park now becoming somewhere to downsize and relax, whether you are here year-round or for shorter stays.
To arrange to visit the park and to see the stunning Omar Oasis for yourself call us on 0800 564 2266, alternatively email us at info@goodlifelodge.com.
REDEFINED Casual Elegance
Effortless blues and creams combine for timeless sophistication, perfect for daytime sophistication or relaxed evening gatherings in style and comfort.
& Product Selection:Mandy Bray
From the moment you slip into this ensemble, it feels like a masterclass in understated elegance. Soft, flowing fabrics in gentle cream and cool shades of blue create a serene, polished look that works equally well for a business-casual lunch or a refined weekend outing. A lightweight button-down brings structure and crispness, while a cosy cashmere layer adds warmth and textural interest without ever feeling heavy.
The tailored cropped trousers lend a modern edge, elongating the leg and offering a flattering silhouette that pairs seamlessly with woven leather flats. Accessories in subtle metallics and natural resin elevate the outfit, providing delicate shimmer and statement details that catch the eye without overpowering the look.
A structured top-handle bag in a complementary shade completes the outfit, tying together the palette and lending practical sophistication for daytime errands, social engagements, or a lunch meeting with friends or colleagues.
What makes this ensemble so compelling is its versatility. You can layer the pieces effortlessly, mix textures, and still feel entirely coordinated. The combination of relaxed tailoring, soft textures, and considered accessories demonstrates a confidence in dressing that is approachable, aspirational, and entirely seasonally appropriate. Carefully chosen shades and finishes make it effortless to transition from indoor events to outdoor walks or springtime garden gatherings.
For your wardrobe this season, consider investing in pieces that offer both style and comfort. Shades of blue and cream feel fresh and timeless, while the carefully considered shapes ensure you can move gracefully from day to evening, from work to weekend, always looking polished.
This is an outfit that speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression— classic, refined and effortlessly modern, ideal for the discerning, style-conscious woman.
Opposite: Amelia striped buttondown shirt, £298. Daro cashmere cardigan, £368. Bancroft
fl
£395. Gold floral statement necklace, £486. Resin drop hoop earring, £131.
Carys cropped pant,£368. All available from veronicabeard.com.
woven leather
at,
Veronica Beard dash top handle bag, £550.
Words
Shirt, £185; trousers, £200, ralphlauren.co.uk.
Shirt, £165; trousers, £195; cardigan, £175, meandem.com.
1. Blue striped cotton shirt, £ 155, www.thekooples.com.
2. Blue striped embroidered floral blouse, £99, www.mintvelvet.com.
3. Stripe concealedplacket shirt in blue and ivory, £148, www.reiss.com.
4. Muriel linen shirt indigo stripe, £129. Doretta linen trousers, £97. www.baukjen.com.
5. Shortsleeved shirt, £145. Flared jeans, £140, www.liujo.com.
6. We The Free Bailey stripe shirt, £118, www.freepeople.com.
Below: Classic vneck blouse azure stripe, £119. Classic jeans, £129. www.hollandcooper.com.
SAHARA
A recent addition to Stamford’s Red Lion Square, this month we take a look at Sahara’s new Summer 2026 collection
There is a quiet confidence to Sahara, a brand that has spent over four decades refining its distinctive voice in British fashion. Founded by Royal College of Art graduate Suzy Coppersmith Heaven, and now led alongside her daughter Tiffany, the familyowned label has built a loyal following for clothing that celebrates individuality, artistry and enduring style.
Its recent arrival in Stamford feels less like an opening and more like a natural homecoming — a meeting of shared values between an independent brand and a town that cherishes character and craftsmanship.
From its earliest days in Covent Garden, Sahara has been guided by a simple philosophy: designing for the individual rather than the crowd. Collections are created to be worn, lived in, and returned to season after season, favouring timeless silhouettes over fleeting trends. The result is a wardrobe that evolves with its wearer, grounded in thoughtful design and beautiful textiles.
That sense of considered creativity continues this summer with a collection inspired by Morocco, a place that has shaped the brand’s visual identity for decades. A palette of cerulean, aqua and sunwarmed coral reflects tiled courtyards and painted doors, while lightweight linen takes centre stage — soft, breathable and full of subtle texture.
Fluid viscose prints introduce movement and colour through dresses and relaxed layers, with motifs ranging from hazy horizons to expressive florals and rhythmic stripes. Signature silhouettes, from cocoon dresses to easy A-line shapes, offer both comfort and elegance, designed to move effortlessly with the body.
Beyond aesthetics, Sahara’s ethos is rooted in responsibility. The brand supports British manufacturing, with a significant proportion of its collections made in England, while long-standing relationships with global artisans ensure each piece carries a story of collaboration and care. A commitment to ethical production, reduced waste and charitable giving underpins every collection, reflecting a desire to leave a positive impact on both people and place. >>
Top: Spot Jacquard Linen Shirt, £185. Linen wide trousers in white, also available in aqua, £149. Above: Tie Dye Printed Shirt, £159. Twisted linen crop bubble trouser in white, also available in black, putty, sky blue and pale pink, £145. Inglesa pumps in white, also available in light pink, navy and slate, £45.
Secret Garden 100% silk shirt, £225. Twisted Linen Slim Trouser in blueberry, also available in white, mushroom, night and black, £125. Gold Labradorite Fan Earrings, £59.
Right: Floral Oasis shirt, £149. Twisted linen slim trouser in white, also available in blueberry, mushroom, night and black, £125. Bead necklace, £49.
Opposite Page: Vintage floral embroidered top, £155. Hem bubble trousers in golden, £139.
Opposite Page: Meadow Dreams sleeveless dress, £209. Gold Vermeil ginkgo leaf earrings £145 and pendent £149. Soft Meadow Dreams silk scarf, £75.
Sahara is now open Red Lion Square, Stamford PE9 2AQ. Call 01780 408 549 or see saharalondon.com.
JIGSAW
Jigsaw’s latest Spring Collection captures this transition with confidence, offering pieces that feel relaxed, modern and quietly uplifting
Jigsaw’s Summer 2026 campaign was photographed at Nevill Holt, the Leicestershire estate owned by David Ross, well known locally as the host of the Nevill Holt Festival each May and June. Its formal gardens and sweeping landscapes provide an elegant yet understated backdrop, reinforcing the collection’s connection to nature and the sense of renewal that defines this time of year.
At the heart of the collection is a focus on fabric and movement. Lightweight cotton dresses are softly pleated to create fluid silhouettes that move easily with the wearer, while fine merino cardigans offer a practical yet refined layer for changeable spring temperatures. Tailoring is reimagined in Irish linen, delivering structure without stiffness and ensuring pieces work just as well for daytime engagements as they do for more polished occasions.
Print plays an important role, with florals that feel contemporary rather than decorative. These designs echo the energy of gardens in bloom without overwhelming the clean lines that underpin the collection. Occasionwear follows a similar approach, with full skirts, cinched waists and considered pleating creating shape and movement while maintaining a modern, wearable feel.
The palette draws directly from the landscape. Soft yellows, sage greens and cornflower blues sit alongside versatile neutrals, making it easy to build a cohesive wardrobe that feels both fresh and grounded.
On 19th June, Jigsaw will host a one-off Jigsaw Day at this year’s Nevill Holt Festival (www.nevillholtfestival.com). Highlights include Anya Hindmarch in Conversation with Emily Sheffield and a talk with Dame Zandra Rhodes. The NHF x Jigsaw pop-up, which will run for the duration of the festival, will offer exclusive promotions alongside a Best Dressed competition.
“Jigsaw and the Nevill Holt Festival are natural partners. We share the same DNA – a dedication to quality, an eye for beauty, and a deep belief in supporting the UK’s creative industries,” says Tikki Godley, Jigsaw Managing Director. “Three years in, this partnership feels stronger than ever, and we’re thrilled to be back.” >>
Top: Iris Leaf linen Vneck top, £99, and trouser £125, both in burgundy. Above: Recycled satin halter dress in burgundy, £165.
Frill Plissé maxi dress in red, also available in yellow, £249.
See www.jigsawonline.com.
Above: Pinstripe linen waistcoat £xxx, and trousers £xxx. Opposite: Geometric check linen tunic in cream, also in black, £125. Finton denim seam detail short in ecru, £69.
£175, thefoldlondon.com
£179, hobbs.com
£89, phaseeight.com
£910, prada.com
From soft sage dresses to bold emerald prints, these greenhued pieces mix plain sophistication with patterned flair. Perfect for spring wardrobes, they bring freshness, versatility, and subtle luxury to any occasion.
£159, whistles.com
£120, nobodys child.com
£199, lkbennett.com
£565, macduggal .com
GILDED BALLET
meandem.com
£139, baukjen
Gold metallic Mary Jane ballerina shoes bring modern shine to timeless silhouettes. Elegant, feminine and endlessly wearable, they pair beautifully with tailoring, dresses, and relaxed linen throughout spring and summer. tf lop.com
£235, anoncph.co.uk £129, boden.com
£255, memara.co.uk
EMERALD GEOMETRY
Emeraldhued Art Deco jewellery delivers glamour, pairing vivid gemstones with geometric lines. Striking yet re these heirloomworthy pieces elevate modern tailoring and evening ensembles effortlessly
£175, astleyclarke.com
£248, naghed inyc.com
Spring Showers
Short rain macs in joyful colours brighten grey days while offering lightweight protection, effortless practicality, and polished everyday style everywhere.
Crafted in supple tan leather and tactile woven finishes, these handbags offer meless appeal. Neutral tones ensure versatility, while artisanal textures bring warmth, refinement, and effortless elegance to spring wardrobes everywhere.
£650, aspinalof london.com
£4,500, fendi.com
£349, airandgrace london.com
FROM THE ROMAN ATELIERS that have defined luxury menswear since 1945, Brioni’s Spring 2026 collection epitomises effortless refinement. Tailored nubuck blousons and the Monti blazer in soft grey balance Italian craftsmanship with contemporary ease, while suede jackets and cashmererich pieces add texture and luxe depth to any wardrobe. For accessories, timeless silk ties and pocket squares in muted tones elevate every outfit with subtle sophistication. Brioni’s enduring sartorial language (quiet, elegant, impeccably cut) nues to set the standard for the modern gentleman.
1. Taupe nubuck city deck shoes, £810. 2. Light orange cotton Marcello shirt, £480. 3. Beige nubuk microperforated belt, £580.
4. Linen blazer shirt, £830. Ivory white cashmere and silk tshirt, £1,070. 5. Brick cotton, silk and cashmere Trama weave polo, £970. Dark brown wool Journey trousers, £1,170. 6. Les Extraits de Parfum Labdanum Brut, £260. 7. Brown cashmere suede desert jacket, £8,750. Taupe cashmere and silk crewneck sweater, £1,460. Midnight blue cotton stretch Merano jeans, £620.
8. Brown and beige microchecked silk blazer shirt, £2,340. 9. Beige and black ribbed canvas Via Veneto backpack, £1,850.
Epic Adventures in PERU
Indulge in Peru’s heritage, adventure, cuisine, and serene
luxury retreats
If you’re planning a May escape that’s rich in culture, awe inspiring scenery and memorable culinary experiences, Peru should be at the top of your list. May is truly an excellent month to visit — it’s the shoulder season between the end of the rainy months and the busier winter tourism period, meaning clearer skies in the Andes and fewer crowds at iconic sites such as Machu Picchu.
Your journey begins long before touchdown. Most visitors from the UK will fly into Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport via a single connection in Europe or North America. Aim for a morning departure so you arrive in Peru’s vibrant capital in the late afternoon, with time to unwind and acclimatise gently to the rhythm of the country.
Start with a night in Lima. The city’s Miraflores and Barranco districts offer leafy boulevards, boutique galleries and clifftop parks overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This is Peru’s gastronomic heart — a chance to sip your first Pisco Sour and savour the ceviche that has shaped the nation’s international culinary reputation.
From here, fly south to Cusco, the ancient Inca capital and your gateway to the Sacred Valley and beyond. Fly into Cusco’s Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport and make your way to your base for the next few nights: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, A Belmond Hotel, Cusco: luxury in the Andes at its finest. This former convent, built on Inca walls in the historic centre of Cusco, combines authenticity with five star comforts. With only 55 suites, a serene courtyard pool and a spa that uses local ingredients like Andean salt and purple corn, it epitomises refined travel.
Rooms are equipped with enriched oxygen to help you acclimatise to the altitude and ensure you feel revitalised as you explore.
After breakfast in the hotel’s tranquil garden, take a private guided walking tour of Cusco’s UNESCO World Heritage listed historic centre. Wander down cobbled streets, explore the imposing Plaza de Armas cathedral and admire the fusion of Inca foundations supporting Spanish colonial architecture.
Next, venture into the Sacred Valley — a fertile highland corridor framed by snow tipped peaks and dotted with terraced stone ruins.
Visit the artisan market of Pisac, where hand woven textiles and silverwork make irresistible souvenirs, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in Urubamba, savouring trout from the Urubamba River and produce from local farms. You’ll notice how indigenous ingredients, such as quinoa and native potatoes, are woven into contemporary dishes with elegant flair.
Day trips to Ollantaytambo and Moray reveal more of the Incas’ remarkable engineering and agricultural insight. Opt for a scenic ride on the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury train — a classic way to reach Aguas Calientes with brunch on board, live music and complimentary pisco sours at sunset.
Machu Picchu needs no introduction. Arrive in the early morning to witness the ancient citadel bathed in golden light, backed by the dramatic Andes ridge. Prioritise a guided tour that gives depth to the experience, explaining the echoes of history that radiate from temple terraces and sunken plazas.
“From Machu Picchu’s sunrise to Lima’s coastal flavours, Peru offers unforgettable moments at every turn...”
After a day of exploration, return to Cusco for a quiet evening in at the Palacio Nazarenas lounge or courtyard. If you have the time, allocate a few days for the Peruvian Amazon or Lake Titicaca.
The Amazon region, accessible by a short flight to Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos, immerses you in lush rainforest, river excursions and wildlife encounters — a completely different facet of Peru’s vast diversity. Meanwhile, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, where traditional reed islands and the culture of the Uros people await.
Dining throughout your journey reflects Peru’s acclaim as a world class culinary destination. Lima’s restaurants, including internationally lauded venues, showcase the depth of Peru’s fusion of Andean, coastal and jungle flavours. In the highlands, sample locally sourced produce paired with fine wines and inventive cocktails that draw on native ingredients.
Top: Colonial buildings and streets in the Peruvian capital, Lima. An aerial view of Cusco from Pukamuqu mountain.
Above: Andean crafts in the traditional town of Ollantaytambo in Cusco. The floating and tourist Islands of lake Titicaca.
May’s climate lends itself to outdoor activities too. In Cusco and the Sacred Valley, clear skies and mild days make for excellent walking tours and archaeological exploration.
In Lima, the cooler Pacific breeze lingers over clifftop parks, ideal for a late afternoon stroll before dinner. As you plan your trip, consider a stint at one of Peru’s signature luxury train experiences — the Belmond Andean Explorer — for an unforgettable overnight journey between highland cities with panoramic views of the vast Altiplano.
Your Peruvian holiday will resonate long after you return home. It’s the blend of dramatic landscapes, ancient history, elegant hospitality and sublime cuisine that creates a series of moments you’ll treasure — whether savouring a slow morning coffee in Cusco, gazing across Machu Picchu at dawn, or dining on fresh ceviche by the Pacific.
Food &Drink
Peru’s culinary reputation is renowned for blending indigenous ingredients with Spanish, African, and Asian influences to create a unique tapestry of flavours that will delight your palate. Start with ceviche, the coastal classic: fresh white fish marinated in lime juice with chilli, red onion, and a sprinkle of coriander, often served with sweet potato or corn on the cob. Another coastal favourite is tiradito, a delicate raw fish dish drizzled with a zesty, spicy sauce, perfect as a light starter.
In the Andes, sample lomo saltado, a sizzling stirfry of tender beef, onions, tomatoes, and Peruvian spices, served with golden fries and fluffy rice; comfort food elevated to gourmet standards. Causa limeña layers mashed yellow potatoes with avocado, seafood or chicken, and a punchy ají amarillo dressing, marrying texture and colour in every bite.
Peru’s beverages are equally remarkable. Sip a Pisco Sour, the nation’s signature cocktail
of pisco, lime, sugar, egg white, and bitters, or enjoy a chilcano, a lighter piscobased drink with ginger ale. Nonalcoholic options include chicha morada, a sweet, spiced purple corn drink, and emoliente, a warming herbal infusion popular for mornings or cool evenings.
And for dessert, try lucuma ice cream, made from the Andean lucuma fruit with caramellike sweetness, or turrón de Doña Pepa, a traditional honey and anise layered treat often enjoyed in spring festivals.
Attractions
Machu Picchu: The iconic Inca citadel, perched high above the Urubamba River, offers panoramic Andean vistas and centuriesold stone terraces.
Cusco Historic Centre: UNESCOlisted cobbled streets showcase Inca foundations beneath Spanish colonial architecture, with charming plazas, churches, and boutique shops.
Sacred Valley: A lush corridor of rivers, hills, and terraced ruins, perfect for exploring vibrant markets and Inca sites.
Pisac Market and Ruins: Colourful handicraft markets sit below dramatic terraced ruins, offering a glimpse of both contemporary Andean culture and Inca ingenuity.
Ollantaytambo: A fortress town with remarkable Inca terraces, narrow stone streets, and strategic mountain views that transport you back in time.
Lake Titicaca: The world’s highest navigable lake, where traditional Uros reed islands and local customs create a serene, unforgettable experience.
Lima’s Barranco District: Art galleries, colonial architecture, and clifftop coastal parks combine with a vibrant café culture and sunset views.
Peruvian Amazon: Lush rainforest excursions reveal exotic wildlife, river journeys, and immersive ecolodges for a luxurious nature experience.
Miraflores Clifftop Parks: Pacific vistas, coastal gardens, and gentle sea breezes make for perfect strolls, sunset photography, and leisurely afternoons.Cusco Historic Centre – UNESCO World Heritage cobbled streets.
Left: Causa de pescado, ceviche and rice with seafood. buffet table.
Accommodation
Casa Andina Premium
Valle Sagrado
GoodValue Sacred Valley
Nestled in the Sacred Valley, this boutique hotel offers charming Andeanstyle rooms with terraces overlooking the Urubamba River. Relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy locally inspired meals, and explore nearby Inca ruins with ease. Ideal for culture and nature lovers.
Guide price around £140 per night. www.casa-andina.com
JW Marriott El Convento Cusco
UpperMid Historic Cusco
Housed in a beautifully restored 16thcentury convent, this hotel blends colonial architecture with contemporary comforts. Courtyards, a spa, and refined dining provide a luxurious base for exploring Cusco’s cobbled streets and vibrant markets. Guide price around £290 per night. www.marriott.com
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
Luxury, Cusco
Set on Inca foundations in Cusco’s historic centre, this former convent offers intimate suites, a serene courtyard pool, and a spa with signature Andean treatments. Perfect for those seeking indulgence and heritage in one Guide price around £600 per night. www.belmond.com
Belmond Miraflores Park
UltraLuxury, Lima
Perched above Lima’s Pacific coast, this fivestar hotel features oceanview rooms, rooftop pool, and gourmet dining. A haven of sophistication, ideal for travellers wanting city luxury with panoramic sunsets over the cliffs. Guide price around £1,100 per night. www.belmond.com
Travel Arrangements
Getting to Peru from the UK is straightforward, though it’s wise to plan ahead for comfort on such a long journey. The majority of travellers fly into Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport, typically via a single connection in Europe or North America. British Airways, Iberia, and LATAM offer convenient routes, with total flight times averaging around 14–16 hours, depending on stopovers. Opt for premium economy or business class if you want to arrive rested and ready to explore — both offer wider seats, extra legroom, and attentive service for longhaul comfort.
Once in Lima, you can choose to spend a night or two in the city before heading to the highlands. Domestic flights connect Lima
Left: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas.
Opposite: The PeruRail train at the Ollantaytambo station.
with Cusco in under 1 hour 30 minutes, an ideal option if you want to maximise your time in the Sacred Valley and beyond. Airlines such as LATAM and Sky Airline are reliable, with frequent departures.
For local travel, private transfers are recommended for both convenience and safety. Many luxury hotels, including the Belmond Palacio Nazarenas and Belmond Miraflores Park, provide chauffeured vehicles for airport pickups and guided excursions. Alternatively, hire a private driver for day trips, which allows you to stop spontaneously at scenic viewpoints or artisan markets along the way.
For those venturing further, such as to Machu Picchu, consider the Belmond Hiram Bingham train or the scenic Vistadome service, both combining comfort with unparalleled views. Planning your travel this way ensures you can enjoy Peru without the stress of logistics.
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MORE DYNAMIC THAN EVER
911 GTS
Words: Rob Davis.
Porsche’s 911 range now covers over 20 variants, each designed for drivers seeking varying degrees of grand touring luxury or outright performance and dynamic handling. Bridging the gap between the versatile Carrera and the savage Turbo is the GTS: Porsche’s first hybrid 911
Decisions, decisions. Let’s start with an easy one. We can unequivocally recommend a Porsche 911. Released in 1964, there have been eight distinct generations of the car, with the present one launched in 2018 and a facelifted version appearing in 2025. Today’s Porsche 911 lineup comprises no fewer than 20 variants, from the Carrera model and its lighter Touring iteration, to the more powerful S and 4S versions and then the ‘hardcore’ Turbo, GT3 and GT3 RS versions.
In addition to different levels of performance you can also specify coupé, cabriolet and Targa (glass roof) iterations and even a rugged Dakar off-road 911 for competing in the eponymous endurance rally. Rear-wheel drive? All-wheel drive? Manual gearboxes or automatic transmission? They’re all options facing a motorist looking to acquire their ideal Porsche 911.
And that’s even before you begin to dive into the Porsche configurator and start to specify colours, interior trim, plus technology and performance options, from the manufacturer’s Sport Chrono package to Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) system or Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDDC).
It this just too much choice? Nope. Not a bit. In fact, configuring your 911 is a bit like commissioning a bespoke suit. It’s yours to personalise, to turn into an individual reflection of what matters to you as a driver, from creating a luxurious grand tourer with an automatic gearbox and plenty of tech, or a lithe, lightweight and performance-oriented racer. Porsche’s GTS is a great compromise.
Sitting between the more comfort-focused grand tourer models, and the more aggressive performance-oriented versions, Porsche’s press bumph describes it as ‘dynamic’ which you can interpret as having less savagery than a Turbo or GT3, but a similar leaning towards driving feedback, and finessed handling balanced between comfort and a track-oriented car.
Most 911 models achieve 60mph in three seconds, although the Turbo versions sprint to 60mph in 2.5 seconds. Power outputs across the whole range span to 394-711PS. Prices are from £103,000 to £210,000.
The Goldilocks Carrera GTS is priced at £137,000, reaches 60mph in three seconds flat and has an output of 541ps. It’s available as an all-wheel drive and cabriolet and Targa versions. The GTS has a 3.6-litre flat six engine with electric turbocharger, a 400-volt traction battery and Porsche’s PDK (Porsche
Doppelkupplungsgetriebe – good job they used an acronym), which is a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Sports car purists might dismiss the GTS’s hybrid turbo assistance and automatic ‘box as diluting the traditionally ‘authentic’ driving experience of that a 911 offered, but for the rest of us, it’s impossible to make a case for a car that makes you work harder to derive the same performance and handling as this thoroughly modern 911.
The GTS is Porsche’s first hybrid 911 and it’s every bit a reflection of the direction of travel in which all cars – even the world’s most famous and well-respected sports car –are going. Will an all-electric 911 follow? We think it’s an inevitability and that will certainly be controversial, but if the execution of that is as good as the GTS’s ability, as a hybrid, to remain faithful to the 911’s DNA, we’re looking forward to it.
But that’s for the future. For now, the 911 GTS is definitely the sweet spot in the range; it’s quick, easy to live with, refined enough to offer comfort and dynamic enough to assure any driver of ride and handling worthy of a motoring connoisseur.
Porsche 911 Carrera GTS
Price: £137,900 (coupé), Engine: 3.6litre sixcylinder petrolwith 541PS and 570Nm torque, rearwheel drive.
Performance: Top speed: 194 mph, 0–60 mph: approx. 3.0 seconds.
Economy & Emissions: Combined fuel economy: approximately 27.4 mpg (WLTP) CO₂ emissions: approximately 233g/km.
Equipment: 20”/21” wheels, matrix LED headlights, Bose stereo, Sport Chrono Package, partelectric seats, heated with heated steeringwheel, cruise, climate.
For more information on Porsche’s 911 range visit Porsche Centre Hull, 01482 911918, www.porschehull.co.uk.
WHY PRECISION LANDSCAPES HAS TURNED GARDEN DESIGN INTO A CRAFT OF CARE PRECISION LANDSCAPING
At a time when outdoor space has become an extension of how we live, work and unwind, Precision Landscapes stands out for treating garden design not as a commodity, but as a craft rooted in care, clarity and genuine collaboration. Their approach feels almost architectural in its discipline, yet unmistakably personal in its execution.
The journey begins with something many firms have quietly abandoned: a face-toface consultation. It’s a simple gesture, but one that signals respect for the client’s vision and the unique character of the site. This early conversation sets the foundation for a design process that is refreshingly grounded — balancing ambition with practicality, and creativity with budget transparency.
From there, Precision Landscapes leans into a level of rigour that many homeowners don’t realise they need until it’s too late. Detailed site surveys, thoughtful concept development, and careful consideration of access, gradients and land use ensure that the final design isn’t just
beautiful on paper, but buildable in the real world. Their planting and lighting plans reveal the same sensitivity: gardens that evolve gracefully through the seasons and remain inviting long after dusk.
But perhaps the most transformative element of their service is their 3D design package. In an industry where clients are often asked to imagine the future from flat drawings, Precision Landscapes offers something far more empowering: the
ability to see your garden before a single spade hits the ground. Their immersive 3D visuals bring materials, levels, planting schemes and spatial flow to life, eliminating guesswork and giving clients the confidence to make informed decisions. It’s not just a design tool — it’s a bridge between imagination and reality.
What ultimately defines Precision Landscapes is the pride and purpose woven through their work. Despite a portfolio that includes award-winning show gardens and collaborations with respected designers, they remain deeply committed to serving local communities across Oakham and the surrounding areas.
Their ethos — precision, communication and craftsmanship — feels like a quiet counterpoint to the rushed, transactional nature of modern home improvement.
In a world hungry for outdoor spaces that restore, inspire and endure, Precision Landscapes offers something rare: gardens designed not just to be admired, but to be lived in.
PEACE OF MIND PROTECTION & PLANNING FOR
For more than a century, NFU Mutual has provided trusted insurance and financial advice rooted in personal service and longterm relationships. The Stamford team explains how the right protection, planning and guidance can help families and businesses secure their future with confidence
Life rarely stands still for long. Whether it’s moving home, planning for retirement, growing a business or safeguarding the things you value most, change is an inevitable part of life. And with change often comes uncertainty.
For our team at NFU Mutual Stamford, helping clients prepare for those moments, both expected and unexpected, is at the heart of everything we do.
The National Farmers Union was established in 1908 to represent British farmers and agricultural businesses, and two years later NFU Mutual was created as a separate organisation to provide insurance to the rural community. Today, more than 115 years on, the company has grown into a nationwide network of over 280 agency offices, offering a wide range of insurance and financial planning services to individuals and businesses alike.
Despite our heritage in the countryside, NFU Mutual’s services are far from limited to those who work in farming. Anyone who values high quality insurance products, thoughtful financial advice and personal service can benefit from the expertise of their local agency.
Leading the Stamford agency are Senior Agent and NFU Group Secretary Ashley Oxer, alongside Emma Westley, Agent and NFU Group Secretary. Together with their experienced team, they pride themselves on building long term relationships with clients,
taking the time to understand each person’s circumstances and helping to ensure the cover or financial plan recommended is the right fit.
Insurance can sometimes feel like a reluctant purchase, something chosen quickly and driven by price. Yet when the unexpected happens, the quality of your insurer and the guidance you received becomes extremely important. For our Stamford team, personal service and face to face conversations remain central to helping clients make informed decisions about their protection.
A considered approach to savings, investments and estate planning can help ensure families are well prepared for the future
NFU Mutual offers a comprehensive range of cover including home and contents insurance, motor, business and farm insurance, as well as a specialist policy for high value properties and possessions.
From art and antiques to jewellery, collections or rare items with personal significance, NFU Mutual Bespoke Home Insurance helps ensure that valuable assets are protected properly and appropriately.
Alongside insurance, our agency also provides financial planning and wealth management services through NFU Mutual
Financial Adviser Dhiren Chudasama, who works with clients to help them plan for the future. Advice may include pensions, ISAs, investments, life cover and protection for families or businesses, as well as guidance on long term financial planning.
With the introduction of changes to Inheritance Tax rules and increasing awareness of the importance of financial planning, more people are seeking advice on how best to protect and pass on their wealth. A considered approach to investments and estate planning can help ensure families are well prepared for the future.
Please be aware the value of investments can rise or fall and you may get back less than you invested. NFU Mutual Financial Advisers advise on NFU Mutual products and selected products from specialist providers. Dhiren will explain the advice services offered and the charges. Financial advice is provided by NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited.
Above all, the Stamford team believes that trust and relationships are fundamental to what we do. When clients know they can speak to someone who understands their circumstances and has taken the time to get to know them personally, it brings reassurance and confidence.
Because whether you are protecting your home, your business or your family’s financial future, having the right support and protection can make all the difference. Find Out More: NFU Mutual Stamford is now based at 41 St Mary’s
tive of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. A member of the Association of British Insurers. And an introducer to NFU Mutual Select Investments Limited, a member of the NFU Mutual group of companies.
Almanac
May
Zodiac: Taurus until 20th May, then Gemini, combining steadfastness with sociable charm.
Birthstone: Emerald, emblem of renewal and long associated with prosperity and clear sight.
Notable Dates:
1st May: May Day, 8th May: VE Day
In The Garden: Continue sowing hardy annuals directly into prepared borders. Check regularly for aphids on tender shoots. Thin out vegetable seedlings to ensure strong crops later in summer and mulch beds to conserve moisture as temperatures begin to rise.
Seasonal Table: Asparagus, Jersey Royal potatoes, rhubarb, watercress, lamb and the first English strawberries.
On The Farm: Lambing draws to a close, cattle return to pasture and fields of oilseed rape blaze yellow across the rural landscape.
Folklore: May has long been regarded as the gateway to summer, rich in ritual and rural celebration.
At dawn on 1st May, villagers once gathered hawthorn blossom and processed to the green to crown a May Queen, weaving ribbons around the maypole in a dance symbolising fertility and community.
Though gentler in scale today, many schools and market towns still keep the custom alive. Morris dancers step out across the country, their bells and handkerchiefs bright against fresh grass.
Oak Apple Day on 29th May commemorated the restoration of Charles II in 1660, with oak leaves worn for loyalty. Meanwhile, bluebell woods reach their height, drawing walkers to ancient coppices carpeted in violet haze.
In more recent tradition, the Chelsea Flower Show has become a modern festival of British horticulture, shaping tastes in planting and design.
From village fetes to cathedral concerts, May remains a month when heritage, pageantry and the natural world intertwine gracefully.
IN OTHER WORDS
“We should be disobedient, curious and human. I believe in storytelling to bring us together as a community, and I believe in women’s voices to tell those stories.”
Jessie Buckley, star of Hamnet, at the 2026 Baftas where she won Best Leading Actress
WEATHER WATCH
Across Lincolnshire and Rutland, May’s daytime highs average 1618°c with overnight lows 79°c degrees and around 45mm of rainfall. Sunrise is about 5am and sunset near 9pm, giving roughly 16 hours of daylight.
ORDER! PARLIAMENT REOPENS FOR BUSINESS
The State Opening of Parliament is one of Britain’s most quirky constitutional ceremonies, marking the formal start of the parliamentary year, in May. At its heart is the monarch’s Speech, read in the House of Lords, outlining the government’s legislative agenda. One of the most theatrical moments comes when Black Rod, the monarch’s representative, has the doors of the House of Commons symbolically slammed in their face before summoning MPs to hear the Speech, a ritual dating back to the 17th century and Parliament’s struggle for independence.
The Palace of Westminster, rebuilt after the 1834 fire, is a vast Gothic Revival landmark with around 1,100 rooms, 100 staircases and three miles of corridors. Several thousand people work on the parliamentary estate, from MPs and peers to clerks, researchers and security staff
ON THE AIRWAVES IN HISTORY
ON YOUR TV AT THE CINEMA IN THE CHARTS
May 1967 Penny Lane by The Beatles; May 1975 Stand By Your Man by Tammy Wynette; 1st May 1982 Ebony and Ivory by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder; May 1998 Frozen by Madonna.
16th May 1975
Fawlty Towers shown on BBC Two; 24th May 1988 This Morning begins on ITV; 19th May 1996 First National Lottery results programme airs; 19th May 2007 Britain’s Got Talent debuts.
21st May 1980
The Empire Strikes Back UK release; May 1994
Four Weddings and a Funeral nationwide screenings; 22nd May 2002 Bend It Like Beckham UK premiere; May 2019 Downton Abbey trailer debut.
TRIVIA, FOLKLORE AND HISTORY
FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN MAY
HATCHED, MATCHED & DISPATCHED
Hatched: Florence Nightingale 12th May 1820; Sir Arthur Conan Doyle 22nd May 1859; David Beckham 2nd May 1975; Adele 5th May 1988.
Matched: Queen Victoria and Prince Albert 10th May 1840; Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 19th May 2018. Dispatched: Laurence Olivier 11th July 1989, remembered each May at the National Theatre; Barbara Cartland 21st May 2000; Sir Alec Guinness 5th August 2000; Sir Christopher Lee 7th June 2015.
MAYDAY
MAYDAY
‘Mayday’ is the international radiotelephony distress call used to signal grave and imminent danger. It was conceived in 1923 by Frederick Stanley Mockford, a senior radio officer at Croydon Airport, who was asked to devise a word easily understood by English and French pilots. He proposed ‘mayday’, from the French m’aidez or venez m’aider (“come and help me”). It remains in use today with protocol requiring the word to be spoken three times to ensure certainty.
ON THIS DAY
MAY IN HISTORY
15th May 1940
Winston Churchill delivered his first speech as Prime Minister to the House of Commons, pledging ‘blood, toil, tears and sweat’ at a moment of profound national uncertainty.
8th May 1945
Victory in Europe Day was declared, prompting celebrations across Britain as the Second World War in Europe came to an end.
6th May 1954
Roger Bannister broke the four minute mile at Oxford’s Iffley Road track, achieving a sporting milestone that resonated around the world.
4th May 1979
Margaret Thatcher entered Downing Street as Britain’s first female Prime Minister after a decisive general election victory.
31st May 2003
Concorde made its final commercial flight into Heathrow, closing a remarkable chapter in British aviation history.
23rd May 2012
The Olympic flame arrived in Britain ahead of the London Games, beginning a nationwide relay that united communities in celebration.
WHAT’S COMING UP
NIL POINTS: THE EUROVISION SONG CONTEST
The Eurovision Song Contest began in 1956 as a way to unite Europe through music and has since grown into the biggest annual live music event on television, attracting around 160 to 180 million viewers worldwide. What started with just seven countries now features roughly 37 nations.
The United Kingdom has competed since 1957 and has won five times, most recently in 1997 with Katrina and the Waves. We have, however, finished second a record sixteen times and in recent years have endured several disappointing results, despite Sam Ryder’s triumphant runner up placing in 2022 restoring some pride.
This year’s contest takes place in May, with the Grand Final scheduled for Saturday 16th May 2026. The BBC has selected Look Mum No Computer to represent the UK, bringing an eccentric electronic energy to the stage. Eurovision remains camp, over the top, and at times, downright strange... as for its ability to unite countries, history has demonstrated that giving someone ‘nil points’ isn’t, in fact, the best way to make friends!
THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW
RHS Chelsea Flower Show returns this year from 19th to 23rd May 2026 at the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea in London. It’s the world’s most prestigious garden show and a highlight of the British summer horticultural calendar, drawing more than 168,000 visitors including gardening experts, designers and members of the Royal Family. The event celebrates cuttingedge garden design, fabulous floral displays and inspirational planting across show gardens, feature gardens and plant displays. New for 2026, gardens emphasise themes of nature, wellbeing and cultural inspiration, with many designers spotlighting causes and innovative planting ideas. Celebrity involvement includes David Beckham codesigning The King’s Foundation Curious Garden, reflecting the growing blend of gardening, wellbeing and creativity.
SAY CHEESE ROLLING
The Stilton Cheese Rolling Festival returns on Sunday 24th May 2026, from 11am to 9pm at Stilton Playing Field, just over the county borders in in Cambridgeshire. Teams of four race to roll a cheese (a mock cheese is used these days) along a set course, often dressed in colourful fancy dress, with food and drink stalls, live music, and other activities.
A STAGE REVISITED
Love rekindled after decades apart
Joseph and Ellen first met in the spring of 1945, when the air still carried the faint scent of victory and hope. They were children then, running barefoot through the green fields on the outskirts of a small village, their laughter mingling with birdsong and the distant clatter of trains. War had scattered their families, and they had drifted apart when Joseph’s parents moved to a nearby market town, leaving behind the dusty lanes and hedgerows of their childhood.
Decades passed, each carrying a quiet rhythm of work and family. Joseph ran a modest antiques shop, the polished mahogany and brass fittings reflecting his meticulous nature. Ellen became a schoolteacher, nurturing young minds with gentle patience. Life was full but contained, punctuated by occasional memories of afternoons spent chasing dragonflies or reading by the riverbank.
It was a chance meeting at the local Theatre that changed everything. Joseph, now in his seventies, had gone to see a local production of The Importance of Being Earnest with his niece and nephew. Ellen, performing in the play, had grown into a woman of poised elegance, her presence on stage commanding attention without demanding it. When their eyes met during the intermission, the years melted away. Recognition sparked instantly, warm and astonishing. They laughed nervously, recalling fragments of childhood adventures that neither had thought of in years.
That spring, walks along winding lanes and afternoons in cosy cafés became routine. They spoke of their lives, of the gaps left by distance, of grandchildren and grandchildren-to-be. Every meeting seemed a delicate weaving of old familiarity and newfound affection, each conversation a bridge spanning decades.
One particularly rainy May afternoon, Ellen confided how much she had missed the spontaneity of her youth, the freedom of simply being present without responsibility. Joseph, listening intently, reached for her hand across the table, the touch light but grounding. “We’ve got time now,” he said softly. “And we’re going to make the most of it.” That was a moment that mattered - quiet, unassuming, yet profound. It anchored them both, a reminder that life, no matter how long, can still surprise you with joy.
Soon, their shared love of travel blossomed. Cruises along the European waterways, from the fjords of Norway to the canals of Venice, became their ritual. They delighted in the small indulgences: champagne at sunset, local cheeses sampled on sunlit
terraces, or a spontaneous dance under strings of fairy lights on the deck. Each voyage stitched new memories onto the fabric of their reconnection.
In the evenings, back home in their charming cottage with its flower-laden garden, they would sit on the terrace and watch the sun sink behind the rolling hills. Joseph often recalled a line from a play they had loved as children: “The simplest moments hold the most beauty.” It was true. Every shared laugh, every quiet conversation, every stolen glance mattered more than any grand gesture.
Now, sitting in their shared drawing-room one May morning, sunlight spilling across the oak floorboards and the scent of roses drifting through open windows, Joseph and Ellen reflect on their extraordinary, ordinary journey. The theatre, the laughter of childhood, the years of separation - all led them to this quiet happiness. They sip tea and smile, knowing that life’s small, seemingly accidental encounters can ripple across decades. And they are grateful for each one.
For Joseph and Ellen, every day is a reminder that love, once found, can endure - even after life has taken you far apart. It is the quiet, unexpected moments that truly matter, shaping a life rich not in wealth but in warmth, in memory, and in the profound simplicity of togetherness.
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