Issuu

CHESHIRE

Cheshire SEPTEMBER 2026 / £3.95

PLU S

MOLLY DARLINGTON

S PECI AL News and views from the county's best schools

From Northwich to the World Cup

• ALDERLEY EDGE The view from the top

SEPTEMBER 2026

• THE QUEEN AT CHESTER

Inside Cheshire's new luxury hotel

Check

ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES.COM

MATE WHY BARBOUR CHESHIRE OAKS HAS ALL YOU NEED TO TRANSITION TO THE AUTUMN MONTHS

COVER WITH SPINE.indd All Pages

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT

8/26/26 11:42 AM

AD ROLEX.indd 2

8/26/26 11:42 AM

AD ROLEX.indd 3

8/26/26 11:42 AM

AD THE STAIR SHOP LIMITED.indd 4

8/26/26 11:42 AM

Transforming Transforming a staircase a staircase intointo a statement a statement of of architectural architectural elegance, elegance, TheThe Stair Stair Shop Shop crafts crafts bespoke bespoke designs designs thatthat elevate elevate thethe entire entire home. home. From From sculptural sculptural solid solid oakoak flights flights to seamless to seamless glass glass balustrades, balustrades, each each piece piece is conceived is conceived withwith precision, precision, balancing balancing contemporary contemporary aesthetics aesthetics withwith enduring enduring craftsmanship. craftsmanship.

0161 0161 477477 8077 8077 office@stairshop.co.uk office@stairshop.co.uk Chamart Chamart House, House, Haigh Haigh Avenue, Avenue, Whitehill Whitehill Industrial Industrial Estate Estate Reddish, Reddish, Stockport, Stockport, SK4 SK4 1NU 1NU W W WW W .WS . TSAT I AR I SR HS OH PO. PC . OC . OU . KU K

AD THE STAIR SHOP LIMITED.indd 5

8/26/26 11:42 AM

42 42 City City Road, Road, Chester Chester CH1 CH1 3AE 3AE T 01244 T 01244 322280 322280 info@chattels-designerfurniture.co.uk info@chattels-designerfurniture.co.uk | www.chattels-designerfurniture.co.uk | www.chattels-designerfurniture.co.uk Open Open Hours: Hours: Tuesday Tuesday - Saturday - Saturday 10.00am 10.00am - 5.00pm - 5.00pm

AD CHATTELS.indd 6

8/26/26 11:43 AM

AD CHATTELS.indd 7

8/26/26 11:43 AM

FILLER POOKY.indd 8

8/26/26 11:43 AM

ABSOLUTELY

Contents SEPTEMBER 2026

46 CULTURE

FASHION

EDUCATION

16 Agenda Top events in Cheshire and the North West

46 The Shoot Modern Heritage

78 Abbey Gate College A

at Barbour Cheshire Oaks

sustainable approach

18 Molly Darlington From Northwich to the World Cup

49 Jewellery Nine of the

81 Tatton Park Helping children to embrace culture

best new necklaces

26 Alderley Edge Why a view

INTERIORS

from the top is just the start

FOOD & DRINK

58 Farrow & Ball Helping to

40 Just Bee Honey Food from

62 Design Central Ten years

the soul made in Cheshire

of the top interiors event

43 Booths A recipe to offer a

67 Products Cutlery to impress

warm welcome to autumn

at your next dinner party

bring colour into our lives

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07862 004 024 or email: martin@zest-media.com Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, 020 7704 0588 zest.london

Facebook @ABSOLUTELYCHESHIRE Instagram @ABSOLUTELYCHESHIRE absolutelymagazines.com

82 Prep Education Exploring its long-lasting value

90 America How to make the grade overseas

O N T H E C OV E R Barbour Modern Heritage AW26 (barbour.com)

editor MARK KEBBLE • art director PAWEL KUBA • magazine designers MARIANA SUZUKI, PAMELLA MORENO • production manager DANICA BRODIE • senior media consultant north region MARTIN CUNNINGHAM • senior media consultant Cheshire JAMES MILLER • credit control manager ALEXANDRA HVID • directors CRAIG DAVIES, JAMES FUSCHILLO, ABIGAIL GARDNER • non-executive director ALEXANDRA HUNTER • managing director SHERIF SHALTOUT Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CONTENTS.indd 9

8/26/26 11:43 AM

FILLER NETHERBY HALL.indd 10

8/26/26 11:43 AM

ABSOLUTELY • THIS MONTH

ASHLEY RUDD

Cheshire CHATTER New year, new you? Ashley Rudd suggests starting in September

here’s a moment every September when Cheshire seems to exhale. The light changes first. It goes soft and low and golden, the kind that makes even the school run through Chester feel cinematic. Then the hedgerows along the lanes toward Tarporley start to turn, and by the time the first conkers are dropping outside the Eastgate Clock, something in me has quietly clicked into place. I’ve never really bought into January as the reset month. It arrives cold, dark asking us to build entirely new habits in the bleakest weeks of the year, with nothing

CHESTER'S EASTGATE CLOCK

outside to root us to the effort. September, on the other hand, comes dressed for the part. It has structure built in. New school years, new terms, new stationery in every shop window, that unmistakable back-to-business energy that’s been wired into us since we were five years old and it’s never quite left. I’m a co-founder of a public relations agency based in Chester, working with founders, creators, and talent who are trying to build something that lasts beyond a single viral moment. Summer, for us, is often about output. Campaigns, launches, the relentless business of getting people seen. September is different. It’s when we sit down properly, usually with a coffee from somewhere I can watch the Dee, and go through what actually worked, what I want to let go of, and what I want the next quarter to look like. You can’t ignore a reset when the whole landscape is doing one alongside you. I’ve taken to doing my thinking on the move rather than at a desk this month. If there’s one thing I’d want you to take from this issue, it’s permission. Permission to treat September as your proper start, whatever January told you. Permission to let a goal quietly change shape rather than declaring it failed. And permission to spend an unreasonable amount of a Sunday afternoon walking through leaves for no better reason than that they’re beautiful and we only get a few weeks of it.

This month I will be...

The market towns are worth a slow Saturday. Make sure you have a couple of hours to spare as there is always something unique to find. Autumn walks, Delamere Forest (above) starts turning amber at the edges. The Sandstone Trail becomes genuinely worth the walk again, once the summer heat has gone and the ground firms up underfoot. Working through the goal setting in Jaunty Goat Chester. Their coffees are perfect for powering through, and we won't say no to one of their pastries, either.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WELCOME.indd 11

8/26/26 11:43 AM

Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

WRAP PA R T Y Beach cover-ups, sarongs and kaftans are all part of the late summer holiday wardrobe, and there's no better place for the perfect look than Amelie's Follies. ameliesfollies.co.uk

COLOUR CODE Habitat's new collection is full of well-designed and colourful accessories. We love this striped vase, a snip at just £14. habitat.co.uk

MUSHROOM M AG I C Need a bit of extra clarity and motivation in the morning? Try Ancient Extracts' Morning Magic Mushroom Coﬀee. It's a low-caﬀeine blend of functional mushrooms, adaptogenic herbs and supportive nutrients that'll give you a little lift to last the day. ancientextracts.co.uk

HOLD ON The Alice cross body bag has been handmade from the highest quality Tuscan calfskin. Light and deceptively capacious, it's a keeper, £600. neo87100.com

I N T H E D E TA I L Jewellery designer Francesca Villa's collections feature a diverse range of motivs ranging from tomatoes to whales – and this adorable puﬀer fish ring is reverse painted on crystal backed with turquoise, with a bezel set in yellow gold, £5,870. francescavilla.it

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WISHLIST.indd 12

8/26/26 11:44 AM

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES EDITOR’S PICK

S U GA R G I R L Little Simz is widely agreed to be one of the most exciting musical acts to emerge in the UK over the past years – and not only is she an accomplished actor as well as a rapper, but she has now been announced as the newest ambassador for Miu Miu Beauty, representing Fleur de Lait, Miu Miu’s fruity-solar scent. miumiu.com

TIED UP Avani Haus' collection of beautiful silk scarves are designed as wearable art. Tie them around your neck or wrist or wear them as tops. avanihaus.com

C R E AT U R E COMFORT Artist and print designer Emma Shipley has teamed up with Lulu Guinness for a limited-edition capsule collection of characterful bags. emmajshipley.com

CHARM SCHOOL Jeweller Tilly Sveaas is celebrating 10 years of her brand with a collection of charms inspired by the symbols and stories that have shaped her style. Mix and match the charms with the ‘Charm Builder’, or choose one of her curated necklaces. tillysveaas.co.uk

B OT T L ES U P For the ultimate fashion water bottle, make it Dior. This simple yet chic stainless steel bottle channels 18th-century rococo and will set you back £170. dior.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WISHLIST.indd 13

8/26/26 11:45 AM

Get Instant cash for Designer Handbags, Handbags, Watches, Watches, Jewellery Jewellery,, Gold Gold,, Cars Cars,, Art & all other luxury assets!

POSH PAWN Buy,, Sell, Buy Sell, Loan with the UK’s Luxury Pawnbroking Specialists

Visit us in-store at our Guildford Guildford,, Weybridge Weybridge,, Richmond Richmond,, Chelsea Chelsea,, Hatton Garden, London Bank, Garden, Bank, Loughton & Manchester branches!

UK-WIDE SERVICE

AS SEEN ON TV

NO CREDIT CHECKS

Award-winning service across the whole of the United Kingdom.

Prestige Pawnbrokers. The stars of Channel 4’s tv show Posh Pawn.

We do not require any credit checks — just fast, hassle-free cash.

Visit ‘poshpawn.co.uk’ for Terms & Conditions. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit related activities under registration number 676907.

Call Now:

FILLER POSH PAWN.indd 14

0808 134 8258 or Scan the QR Code for a Free Valuation 8/26/26 11:45 AM

C U LT U R E

Jen Brister 9 SEPTEMBER, CREWE LYCEUM

Jen Brister is Reactive – or so she's been told. Finding herself in a constant state of exacerbation at the state of the world and people in general, Jen has been told she needs to chill the hell out. Can Jen find her zen? It seems unlikely to be honest… trafalgartickets.com

Agenda 16 • Molly Darlington 18 • Alderley Edge 26 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CULTURE OPENER.indd 15

8/26/26 11:45 AM

The Agenda

THE BEST EVENTS IN CHESHIRE

EV E N T

Happy Place Festival

PHOTO: COLLIER SCHORR

5-6 September TATTON PARK Think of Happy Place Festival as a pick-and-mix for your wellbeing. Yes, there’s yoga, but there’s also conversations, creativity, food, shopping, laughter, performances, and a big sense of community. happyplaceofficial.co.uk

F I L M

The Greatest Showman 3 S E PTE MB E R , STO RYHOUSE

With summer just about still here, make sure you take advantage of Moonlight Flicks at Rooftop Social Club, Storyhouse. This is the musical dramatisation of the story of P T Barnum as he creates his circus show in 19th century New York, with Hugh Jackman exemplary in the lead role. storyhouse.com

MU S I C

Sam Smith

3-4 September MANCHESTER ALBERT HALL Multi-Platinum, GRAMMY®, BRIT, Golden Globe, and Oscar-winning artist and songwriter Sam Smith has announced a tenshow tour across two residencies this September, including these two dates at Manchester's Albert Hall. Sam’s highly anticipated ﬁfth studio album, Hazel Eyes, was released on 21st August, so this will be a chance to hear those new songs the best way: live. alberthallmanchester.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AGENDA.indd 16

8/26/26 11:46 AM

CULTURE • DIARY

M U S I C

MU S I C

THE EARS

Man / Woman / Chainsaw

Liverpool ONE has recognised piano star Brad Kella with a special plaque

22 September MANCHESTER GORILLA Described by Rolling Stone as “a young band in the process of inventing something ecstatically new”, Man / Woman / Chainsaw are a six-piece formed by childhood friends Billy Ward and Vera Leppänen. The tight-knit group have rapidly become one of the UK’s most talked-about emerging acts, earning praise from The Guardian, NME, The Line Of Best Fit, DIY, The Fader and BBC 6 Music. thisisgorilla.com

EV E N T

THE QUEST TO EXPLORE SPACE

This Month’s Must See

24 SEPTEMBER, PARR HALL British astronaut Tim Peake is returning to Warrington for an awe-inspiring evening which will celebrate some of the landmark achievements in space exploration. In his first sell-out visit to Warrington three years ago, Tim brought to life his own incredible story. In this show he will look at the wider picture, sharing the amazing stories and historic achievements of some of his fellow astronauts. parrhall.culturewarrington.org

KATSEYE 6 SEPTEMBER, CO-OP LIVE

atseye have announced the Wildworld Tour, a headline outing that will take the global girl group to arenas across the UK, Europe and North America this autumn. The group released Wild, their third EP on 14th August, the follow-up to the GRAMMY®-nominated 2025 EP Beautiful Chaos. cooplive.com

blue plaque has been unveiled at Liverpool ONE to mark the spot where piano star Brad Kella first performed at the centre more than 10 years ago. Self-taught pianist Brad returned to the centre to unveil the plaque at the very spot he first busked at the centre – marking the significance of the moment and celebrating the inspiring journey he’s since been on, gaining national recognition as the winner of Channel 4’s The Piano and achieving a Number 1 Classical album with Phoebe’s Melody, named after his daughters. Brad said: “It’s always a joy to perform at Liverpool ONE – I still get the same buzz from it now as I did all those years ago. There’s something special about the crowds and the atmosphere that’s a winning combination. I’m so proud to be from Liverpool and the city’s support means the world to me. Whether I’m busking or performing to a sold-out crowd at the Philharmonic Hall, it’s amazing to see people’s reactions and be able to make people happy through my music, especially in my hometown. There’s no other city that backs their own like Liverpool and I’m so grateful for this honour and the support the city continues to show me.” The plaque unveiling comes as Liverpool ONE’s popular annual piano celebration, Tickle the Ivories, gets under way. The event has been running since 2011 and brings live piano performances into the heart of the city each year. Tickle the Ivories runs until mid-September. Members of the public can turn up and play any of the pianos, or can pre-book online via the website. liverpool-one.com

PHOTO: RAHUL BHATT

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AGENDA.indd 17

8/26/26 11:46 AM

COMMONWEALTH GAMES NETBALL MOLLY DARLINGTON/GETTY IMAGES

IN THE

T FRAME From non-league football in Northwich to World Cups and Olympic Games, Cheshire’s Molly Darlington has built a remarkable career behind the lens

here are few better illustrations of how far a career can travel than Molly Darlington’s. As a teenager in Northwich, she was standing on the touchline at non-league football matches, camera in hand, learning her craft as a volunteer. Today, her working environment might be a FIFA World Cup, Champions League final or Olympic Games, capturing images that will be seen by millions around the world. Yet the beginnings were pleasingly modest. Molly’s first camera was a Canon 5D EOS body paired with a Canon 70-200mm lens, equipment she put to use photographing 1874 Northwich while studying at college. “I always hoped that I would be covering major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Champions League finals,” she says, “but as a 17-year-old starting her career in Northwich, I didn’t know how I would get there at the time.” She certainly found a way. Molly has since covered four FIFA World Cups – two men’s and two women’s tournaments – alongside the Olympics, Paralympics, European Championships and many of football’s biggest occasions.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MOLLY DARLINGTON.indd 18

8/26/26 11:46 AM

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

BURY V BRADFORD MOLLY DARLINGTON/BURY FC

Even with that experience, there is no suggestion that arriving at another major tournament has become routine. “Every World Cup I have covered has felt special,” she says. “The fans, the atmosphere, and the unexpected moments that happen whilst seeing the world’s biggest sports stars competing in what I consider to be the world’s biggest sporting event.” The scale of those occasions is one thing; finding a distinctive way to photograph them is another. At the most recent World Cup in North America, Mexico and Canada, many matches took place in American football stadiums rather than the purpose-built football grounds Molly was accustomed to, presenting a fresh creative challenge. “There can sometimes be less flexibility in being creative at the World Cup, as you always need to be ready to capture the vital moments of the game, such as goals, red cards and celebrations,” she explains. “But there’s also the opportunity for those moments to go viral, and for those images to be seen and shared by millions of fans around the world.” Being ready for the obvious moments is only part of the job. What makes the finest sports photography so compelling is often what happens away from the defining goal, medal or trophy lift – the

glance, reaction or fleeting human moment that tells another story. “I always keep an eye out for moments that are a little bit ‘extra’,” Molly smiles. “The story may not be obvious when it’s right in front of you, so I always do my research before each game or match. There might be a player in the headlines or a story that’s going on outside the pitch.” She also tries to remember who will ultimately be looking at her work. “It’s always good to see things from a fan’s perspective too, because they’re the ones who will see the images you captured from the game in a magazine, online or on social media.” Perhaps appropriately, her favourite photograph isn’t from one of the enormous global occasions that now populate her CV. Instead, it dates back to the first professional football match she ever photographed, Bury against Bradford City. “Jermaine Beckford was with the mascot in the centre circle of the pitch before kick-off, and the look on the child’s face showed just how special that moment was to him,” she remembers. That instinct for capturing stories has earned considerable recognition. Before turning 25, Molly was named Young Photographer of the Year by the Sports Journalists’ Association, while

MOLLY DARLINGTON

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MOLLY DARLINGTON.indd 19

8/26/26 11:47 AM

CULTURE • INTERVIEW MEXICO AT THE WORLD CUP MOLLY DARLINGTON/GETTY IMAGES

also winning its Olympic and Paralympic Portfolio Award. “Being named the Young Photographer of the Year by the SJAs meant a lot to me,” she says. “Being recognised alongside distinguished people in the industry – especially after covering my first ever Olympic and Paralympic Games – was a surreal experience.” She had been working full-time for just three years when the awards arrived. “I felt like I had been recognised for all the hard work that I had put into my career so far.” That career had been taking shape long before the accolades. While studying at Manchester Metropolitan University, Molly worked for two smaller agencies: football specialists AMA Sports Agency and motorsport agency LAT Images, now part of Getty Images. She even tailored two university modules around football and motorsport photography, ultimately graduating with first-class honours. “I gained valuable experience while working at both agencies and learnt a lot from AMA’s founder, Matthew Ashton, while I was starting out,” she says. And when it came to deciding which direction to take, the choice was straightforward: “I chose to pursue a career in football photography because my heart lies in football.” Photography technology has inevitably evolved during her career. Molly began

with DSLR cameras and now works with mirrorless equipment, while today’s cameras can shoot at speeds that would have seemed extraordinary to previous generations of photographers. But she believes technology can only take a photographer so far. “The mindset and core skills that you need to capture compelling imagery remains the same,” she says. “You still have to focus on the key moments – the goals, the fans, telling the story throughout the day – but it’s just a case of learning the di!erent ways that each new camera works.” The industry itself is changing too. Sports photography remains maledominated, something that could understandably make walking into a press room for the first time intimidating for a young photographer. “It can be a little daunting walking into the press room when you start out, but in my experience, everyone I’ve interacted with has always been very welcoming,” Molly says. Her advice for those hoping to follow her is reassuringly practical. “Show how seriously you take the job. If you show people that you’re willing to put in the work to hone your skills, they’ll be willing to help you.” After the intensity of major sporting occasions and assignments around the globe, Cheshire continues to provide the counterbalance. When we speak, she has

recently returned from the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. “I love returning home!” she exclaims. “It’s always nice to see friends and family – and sleep in your own bed. I also love taking my dog out for walks in the countryside. After working in chaotic, busy cities around the world, it’s nice to slow down and relax.” It is a world away from the teenager who spent three years photographing 1874 Northwich in the rain, although those days remain an important part of the story. What, then, would today’s Molly tell the girl standing beside those non-league pitches with ambitions of photographing the biggest events on earth? “Sixteen-year-old Molly wouldn’t believe how far she’s come!” she says. “When things get tough, I’d tell her, ‘Don’t give up and keep doing what you love, because you’ll get there in the end’.” And despite everything already achieved, Molly is far from finished. “I hope that there’s still many more football tournaments and Olympic Games on the horizon,” she says, “and I’m looking forward to seeing what challenges cross my path wherever in the world my career takes me.” From Northwich in the rain to the greatest sporting stages on the planet, you suspect there are plenty more pictures still to come. mdarlingtonphotography.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MOLLY DARLINGTON.indd 20

8/26/26 11:47 AM

FILLER PARK GATE.indd 21

8/26/26 11:47 AM

LAUGHTERAMA, HERE AND BELOW RIGHT PHOTOS BY MATT EACHUS

TOP

10 L O T S

O F

Laughterama returns to the North West with a stellar comic line-up. Absolutely picks out ten we can’t wait to see

LOLs

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP 10 LAUGHTERAMA.indd 22

8/26/26 11:47 AM

CULTURE • TOP 10

MICHELLE WOLF

NICK MOHAMMED

One of America’s most fearless and uncompromising comedians, Michelle Wolf arrives in Manchester fresh from cementing her reputation as one of standup’s sharpest voices. Best known for her acclaimed Netflix specials, Emmy-nominated writing on Late Night with Seth Meyers and memorable appearances on Have I Got News For You, Michelle has built a career on fearless social commentary delivered with infectious energy. Nothing is off limits, whether she’s dissecting politics, celebrity culture, relationships or modern life, yet her material remains smart rather than simply provocative. Her rapid-fire delivery and brilliantly constructed arguments reward audiences who enjoy comedy that challenges as much as entertains. As Laughterama’s closing headliner, Michelle brings genuine international star power to Castlefield Bowl.

Few performers can switch between brilliant comic acting and outstanding stand-up quite like Nick Mohammed. Beloved worldwide as the wonderfully awkward Nate Shelley in Ted Lasso, while also delighting audiences with his chaotic Mr Swallow persona, Nick possesses an extraordinary gift for blending character comedy, improvisation and sharp writing. His appearances on Taskmaster and The Celebrity Traitors have further showcased his delightfully unpredictable humour and impeccable comic instincts. Live, audiences can expect a mixture of clever storytelling, absurd observations and moments of inspired silliness that continually wrongfoot expectations. His performances often balance childlike enthusiasm with razorsharp intelligence, creating routines that appeal to comedy lovers of every generation.

JACK DEE

LAUGHTERAMA CASTLE FIELD BOWL

For more than three decades, Jack Dee has perfected the art of making misery utterly hilarious. His trademark deadpan delivery, permanently world-weary expression and perfectly timed put-downs have made him one of Britain’s most recognisable comedians. From Live at the Apollo and I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue to countless sell-out tours, Jack has remained effortlessly relevant by finding humour in everyday frustrations that most people quietly endure. His genius lies in making ordinary inconveniences feel absurdly monumental, while his deceptively laid-back style disguises meticulous writing and impeccable timing. Audiences know exactly what they’re getting with Jack Dee – dry, intelligent, expertly crafted stand-up delivered with masterful understatement.

SARA PASCOE Sara Pascoe has become one of Britain’s most respected comedians by combining intellectual curiosity with warm, relatable storytelling. Equally at home discussing science, feminism, family life or human

anchester’s live comedy scene reaches its annual peak this month as Laughterama returns to Castlefield Bowl for five nights of open-air entertainment. Running from 2-6 September, the festival has quickly established itself as one of the UK’s standout comedy events, pairing blockbuster headline acts with some of the brightest emerging talent in a relaxed festival setting complete with street food, bars and one of the city’s most distinctive outdoor venues. Here are ten acts we are particularly excited about seeing. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP 10 LAUGHTERAMA.indd 23

8/26/26 11:47 AM

CULTURE • TOP 10

behaviour, Sara has an enviable ability to tackle complex ideas without ever losing sight of the laughs. Television viewers know her from shows including Taskmaster, QI and Live at the Apollo, while readers have embraced her bestselling books exploring everything from relationships to the human brain. On stage, she blends thoughtful observations with self-deprecating humour, creating performances that feel both insightful and deeply personal.

FERN BRADY

LAUGHTERAMA, PHOTO BY MATT EACHUS

STEWART LEE Stewart Lee remains one of the most influential stand-ups of his generation, revered by audiences and fellow comedians alike for his meticulous craftsmanship and brilliantly layered routines. His comedy rewards close attention, often building seemingly simple observations into elaborate explorations of culture, politics, media and modern Britain. Famous for deliberately playing with audience expectations, Stewart frequently deconstructs the very mechanics of stand-up itself, creating performances that are as intellectually stimulating as they are laugh-out-loud funny. Longtime fans relish his callbacks, extended routines and razor-sharp satire, while newcomers quickly discover why he’s regarded as one of comedy’s true innovators.

CHRIS MCCAUSLAND Chris McCausland’s warmth, quick wit and effortless storytelling have made him one of Britain’s most loved comedians. Following his history-making success on Strictly Come Dancing, audiences have embraced him not simply for his achievements, but for his brilliantly relatable humour. Blind since his 20s, Chris effortlessly weaves his experiences into routines that are insightful without ever becoming worthy, finding universal comedy in family life, technology, parenting and everyday misunderstandings. His natural storytelling style creates an immediate connection with audiences, while his spontaneous interactions often generate some of the night’s biggest laughs. Rather than relying on gimmicks, Chris’s comedy is built on outstanding writing and impeccable timing.

awkward storytelling. Creator and star of the acclaimed sitcom Starstruck, Rose excels at finding humour in dating disasters, social anxieties and the everyday embarrassments that define modern adulthood. Her conversational style makes audiences feel like they’re catching up with a hilariously honest friend, even as her expertly crafted routines build towards perfectly judged punchlines. Whether reflecting on relationships, fame or growing up in New Zealand, Rose combines warmth with razor-sharp comic instincts. Her performances effortlessly balance vulnerability and confidence, making even life’s most awkward moments feel universally relatable.

PHOTO: MATT STRONGE

PHOTO: STEVE ULLATHORNE

Scottish comedian Fern Brady has carved out a unique place in British comedy with her fearless honesty and uncompromising perspective. Never afraid to discuss subjects others avoid, Fern combines razor-sharp observations with brilliantly dry delivery and a wonderfully rebellious spirit. Her hugely successful autobiography and acclaimed stand-up have introduced audiences to her refreshingly candid reflections on everything from growing up in Scotland to navigating adulthood and neurodiversity. Television appearances on Taskmaster revealed both her chaotic energy and natural comic timing, earning her an even wider following. Live, she mixes dark humour with deeply personal stories that somehow become universally relatable. Fern’s comedy feels bold, authentic and entirely original, making every performance unpredictable and refreshingly free from convention.

NINA CONTI There is nobody quite like Nina Conti. Combining exceptional ventriloquism with razor-sharp improvisation, she transforms every performance into something completely unique. Her puppet companions have become comedy stars in their own right, creating hilarious exchanges that blur the line between performer and character with astonishing skill. Audience participation often plays a major role, with unsuspecting volunteers becoming unforgettable parts of the show through Nina’s extraordinary comic imagination. Beyond the technical brilliance of her ventriloquism lies an exceptional stand-up performer capable of quick thinking, playful mischief and wonderfully surreal humour. Every performance feels spontaneous, with no two shows ever unfolding in exactly the same way.

ROSE MATAFEO New Zealand comedian, writer and actor Rose Matafeo has become an international star thanks to her irresistible mix of charm, self-awareness and brilliantly

IVO GRAHAM Few comedians capture middle-class awkwardness quite as hilariously as Ivo Graham. Instantly recognisable for his self-deprecating charm, frantic enthusiasm and wonderfully over-analytical storytelling, Ivo has become a favourite on panel shows, podcasts and live stages across the country. Whether recounting social mishaps, family dynamics or his own spectacular ability to overthink absolutely everything, he creates richly detailed routines filled with clever callbacks and perfectly judged observations. Television appearances have showcased both his quick wit and lovable nervous energy, while his live shows reveal a comedian whose writing is every bit as impressive as his delivery. Ivo’s humour feels deeply personal yet universally recognisable. laughterama.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP 10 LAUGHTERAMA.indd 24

8/26/26 11:47 AM

Contemplation Stone XXI

CAROLIN RECHBERG

Porcelain Sculpture 43 x 15 x 14 cm 2021

carolinrechberg.com

FILLER CR.indd 25

8/26/26 11:47 AM

TOP View from the

From legendary landscapes to luxury dining, Alderley Edge combines Cheshire glamour with ancient history and outstanding countryside escapes

here are few places in Cheshire that conjure quite the same image as Alderley Edge. Mention its name almost anywhere in Britain and thoughts immediately turn to footballers, celebrities and grand homes hidden behind electric gates. Yet to define the village solely by its affluent reputation would be to overlook a remarkable history stretching back thousands of years. Beneath the designer boutiques and immaculate gardens lies one of Cheshire’s oldest and most fascinating settlements, where myths,

mining and magnificent landscapes combine to create somewhere genuinely unique. The village takes its name from the dramatic sandstone escarpment known simply as The Edge, a wooded ridge rising around 200 metres above sea level and dominating the surrounding Cheshire Plain. The word "Edge" derives from the Saxon term for a ridge, while "Alderley" is thought to come from "Aldred’s clearing", referencing an Anglo-Saxon landowner. Long before today’s prosperous village emerged, however, people were drawn here by something hidden beneath the sandstone: copper. Mining has taken place on The Edge since the Bronze Age, making it one of Britain’s

oldest known mining sites. Archaeological excavations have uncovered evidence of prehistoric miners extracting copper more than 3,500 years ago using stone tools and primitive techniques. Later, the Romans recognised the area’s value and expanded operations, leaving behind an extensive network of underground workings that continued to be exploited periodically over the following centuries. The Victorian era transformed Alderley Edge into something rather di"erent. The arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century suddenly placed the village within easy reach of Manchester, encouraging wealthy industrialists to build substantial

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ALDERLEY EDGE.indd 26

8/26/26 11:47 AM

CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

VICTORS ALDERLEY EDGE

VIEW FROM THE EDGE

homes overlooking the countryside. Elegant villas appeared alongside older cottages, while fashionable visitors came to enjoy clean country air and spectacular walks across The Edge. Today the village balances heritage and modern luxury remarkably well. Historic buildings sit comfortably alongside contemporary boutiques, while centuriesold woodland begins only a few steps from stylish cafés and independent shops. It’s this combination that continues to make Alderley Edge one of Cheshire’s most distinctive destinations.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO TODAY A visit naturally begins with The Edge itself. Now owned and managed by the National Trust, this dramatic escarpment offers some of the finest panoramic views in North West England. On clear days the vista stretches across the Cheshire Plain towards Liverpool, the Welsh hills and even the

Pennines. Well-maintained walking trails weave through ancient woodland, passing weathered sandstone outcrops, hidden caves and viewpoints that have inspired visitors for centuries. Back in the village centre, Alderley Edge’s compact high street is perfect for leisurely browsing. Unlike many commuter villages, it retains an impressive collection of independent boutiques alongside carefully chosen premium retailers. Fashion, interiors, gifts and artisan food shops all contribute to an atmosphere that feels decidedly sophisticated without becoming intimidating. Golf is another major attraction. Alderley Edge Golf Club, founded in 1907, occupies beautiful heathland just outside the village and remains one of Cheshire’s most respected courses. Visitors can also find several excellent courses within a short drive, reflecting the area’s long association with the sport. Nature lovers should allow time for nearby Hare Hill, a delightful National Trust garden just beyond the village centre. Although relatively small, it offers peaceful woodland walks, colourful seasonal planting and one of Cheshire’s finest rhododendron collections during late spring. It’s a welcome contrast to the bustle of the high street and particularly lovely during autumn when the woodland turns golden. The wider Cheshire countryside provides further opportunities for walking and cycling. Quiet lanes wind through rolling farmland towards Nether Alderley, where the handsome medieval church of St Mary houses one of the finest collections of Tudor monuments in the county. The surrounding landscape remains remarkably unchanged despite being only a short distance from Manchester Airport.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK Alderley Edge has quietly become one of Cheshire’s strongest dining destinations, attracting talented chefs alongside wellestablished restaurant groups. The result is a food scene that comfortably rivals much larger towns. For something with a Mediterranean influence, Victors Alderley Edge remains one of the village’s most recognisable destinations. Its elegant interiors, floral displays and lively atmosphere have made it popular for brunches, cocktails and evening dining. The menu ranges from sushi and robata grills to steaks, seafood and Asian-inspired sharing plates, all served in glamorous surroundings. The village’s culinary reputation remains as strong as

SAN CARLO

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ALDERLEY EDGE.indd 27

8/26/26 11:47 AM

CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

ALDERLEY EDGE MIXES HISTORIC AND CONTEMPORARY BUILDING STYLES

ever, led by San Carlo – Alderley Edge, one of the most glamorous restaurants in Cheshire. Following a £3 million transformation, the restaurant combines contemporary Italian luxury with interiors inspired by grand Milanese villas, including an elegant garden terrace with a retractable roof and fireplace. The menu showcases premium Italian cuisine, from fresh seafood and handmade pasta to expertly grilled meats, while Sunday roasts, an impressive wine list and lively weekend DJ sets ensure it remains a destination from lunchtime through to late evening. It’s exactly the sort of polished, high-end dining experience that reflects Alderley Edge’s sophisticated reputation. One of the newest additions to the village is The Fire Station Social Cucina, which opened in June 2026 on the former Gusto site. The second venue from Cheshire Pub Company’s Fire Station Social Cucina brand, it has brought a fresh, neighbourhood-style Italian concept to the heart of Alderley Edge. The spacious restaurant centres around Napoli-style pizzas, hand-rolled pasta, Italian sharing dishes and handcrafted cocktails, complemented by regular aperitivo hours, bottomless brunches and Sunday roasts with an Italian twist. With its open pizza theatre, welcoming atmosphere and stylish interiors, it has quickly established itself as one of the village’s most exciting new dining destinations. Those seeking exceptional coffee and lighter lunches will enjoy The Bubble Room, an Alderley Edge favourite that blends café

culture with contemporary dining. Brunches are especially popular, while afternoon cakes and artisan coffee make it an excellent stopping point after exploring The Edge. The Drum and Monkey offers an excellent traditional pub option, combining historic charm with quality gastropub cooking. Its carefully kept ales, comfortable dining rooms and locally sourced ingredients continue to attract loyal regulars alongside visitors exploring the area.

INSPIRED BY ALDERLEY EDGE

Things You May Not Know About Alderley Edge Alan Garner's internationally acclaimed The Weirdstone of Brisingamen was directly inspired by the landscape, caves and legends of Alderley Edge, introducing millions of readers to its magical folklore.

•

The copper mines beneath The Edge rank among Britain's oldest known prehistoric mining sites, with archaeological discoveries revealing sophisticated mining techniques long before Roman occupation.

•

During the Second World War, nearby Birtles Hall was used by military intelligence, and the wider area played a discreet role in wartime operations, attracting several notable visitors, including Winston Churchill.

•

On exceptionally clear days it's possible to see not only Cheshire but parts of Lancashire, Staffordshire, Derbyshire, North Wales and even the distant peaks of Snowdonia.

•

Victorian industrialists were already building grand country houses around Alderley Edge over 150 years ago, establishing its reputation as one of Cheshire's most desirable residential addresses decades before Premier League stars made it famous.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ALDERLEY EDGE.indd 28

8/26/26 11:48 AM

FILLER NELSON HOTELS INNS.indd 29

8/27/26 7:44 AM

JAMES WALKER, FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF JORVIK TRICYCLES

RIDING HIGH On the back of opening a new showroom in Chester, Jorvik Tricycles’ MD offers his guide to the best cycling routes in Cheshire B y J A M E S WA L K E R

ycling is about freedom, from being able to explore somewhere new, spending time in the great outdoors, staying active or just having the liberty to move at your own pace. The ability to get on a bicycle (or tricycle) is something that many people enjoy. Cheshire is one of the UK’s best cycling destinations offering a diverse range of routes and scenes from historic city roads to scenic canal paths to woodland and countryside views. Electric tricycles are a versatile way to travel around. Road legal at 250W, and ideal for a weekend in the city or travelling along country roads, Jorvik Tricycles has a huge range available, from agile tricycles best for the city right through to mountain trikes that can take on the countryside and coast. Each charge will usually get you around 35 miles minimum which is more

than enough for a day out, and the benefit of a tricycle is that you have more space to carry cargo. No need to pack light! Jorvik Tricycles’ new 4,706sq ft showroom and workshop in the Central Trading Estate in Chester gives cyclists the opportunity to test-ride tricycles on their 300m square indoor track designed to prepare you for your Cheshire cycling exploration. Then, once ready, here are some of the best cycling routes across the county to explore, from canal towpaths and gentle inclines, to hilltops and offroading – there is a route for everyone.

WHITEGATE WAY Start point: Hartford Railway Station, Chester Road, Hartford, CW8 1QX Distance: 12 miles This mostly flat, popular cycle route goes by a number of quaint English towns. It starts in Hartford and goes all the way to the salt mine at Winsford. Jorvik Tricycles’ recently launched RIDA+ boasts all the benefits of an e-bike with the stability of three wheels. Thanks to it being gear-free, it offers brilliant straightforward riding and genuine reliability making it perfect to hit winding scenic roads with confidence. The key benefit to this route other than it being well-maintained and mainly traffic-free is that it has deep

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CHESHIRE CYCLING SPOTS.indd 30

8/26/26 11:48 AM

CULTURE • CYCLING

EXPLORE CHESHIRE THANKS TO JORVIK TRICYCLES

cuttings with oak, silver birch and bramble and provide an ideal home for many woodland birds and animals. This makes it perfect for bird enthusiasts.

THE MIDDLEWOOD WAY Start point: Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 6UT Distance: 10 miles The Middlewood Way offers a 10-mile traffic-free route ideal for cyclists. It follows the line of the former Macclesfield, Bollington and Marple Railway through beautiful Cheshire countryside and between historic mill towns. This route is well suited to a foldable VANDRA+ electric tricycle, perfect for city cycling and exploring.

THE BIDDULPH VALLEY WAY

all levels and can be cycled both ways. Jorvik Tricycles VANDRA X is a great option for this route. Its game-changing design is built for every adventure, with innovative folding mechanisms that make them easy to transport.

BOLLIN VALLEY CYCLE TRAIL Start point: Macclesfield Forest, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 0NS Distance: 24 mile This long distance cycle route was launched to celebrate National Bike Week in 2012. The trail follows the

course of River Bollin from its source in Macclesfield Forest to where it joins the Manchester Ship Canal near Partington. Using country roads for most of the way, the route is more suitable for experienced and confident riders but it also takes in part of the Trans Pennine Trail, which is great for families. The newly launched RIDA X is a great option for this route. Its game-changing design allows it to move smoothly through trails, woodland paths, and rough terrain. jorviktricycles.com HARTFORD

Start point: A54 Brook Street, Congleton, CW12 2AA Distance: 12 mile The Biddulph Valley Way follows the route of a former railway line between Congleton and Stoke-on-Trent. The trail offers views of the Macclesfield Canal and both the Cheshire and Staffordshire countryside, passing close to Biddulph Grange Country Park and Greenway Bank and Knypersley Reservoir, which are well worth a small detour from the route. Using country paths for most of the way, the route is suitable for riders of A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CHESHIRE CYCLING SPOTS.indd 31

8/26/26 11:49 AM

FILLER ELEPHANT.indd 32

8/26/26 11:50 AM

CULTURE • EVENT CHESTER RACECOURSE PHOTO BY CHRIS CLAYTON

OPEN SECRETS Discover Cheshire's fascinating history as Heritage Open Days unlock remarkable buildings, unique tours and hidden stories across the county this September

very September, Heritage Open Days throws open the doors to some of England’s most fascinating historic buildings, landscapes and cultural treasures, offering visitors the chance to explore them for free. From medieval halls and wartime aviation landmarks to guided walks, geological talks and family-friendly workshops, the

festival celebrates the places and stories that have shaped local communities. This year’s Cheshire programme once again showcases the county’s remarkable diversity, inviting residents and visitors alike to discover everything from Roman Chester to Tudor architecture, eerie ghost stories and even a modern stone circle. Whether you’re a lifelong history enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring day out, these standout events are well worth adding to your diary.

LITTLE MORETON HALL

CHESTER TIME TRAVEL TOURS: ROMAN TOUR

Open: Friday 11 September, 11am Chester’s Roman heritage is impossible to ignore, but this engaging guided walk brings the city’s ancient past vividly to life. Rather than following a conventional tour guide, visitors are accompanied by a Roman hoplomachus gladiator, who recounts stories from nearly two millennia ago while leading the group through the city’s historic streets. Lasting around an hour, the experience has been designed to be interactive, family-friendly and accessible, making it an excellent introduction to Chester's extraordinary history.

CHESTER RACECOURSE WALKING TOUR

Open: Wednesday 16 September, 2pm-3.30pm The Roodee is famed as the oldest operating racecourse in the world, but its story stretches back far beyond horse racing. This guided walking tour explores almost 2,000 years of history, beginning when the area served as Chester’s Roman harbour before evolving through centuries of change into one of Britain’s most celebrated sporting venues. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS.indd 33

8/26/26 11:50 AM

FILLER CHESTER RACE.indd 34

8/26/26 11:50 AM

CULTURE • EVENT

PARKFIELDS PARK, PHOTO BY TIM PREVETT

Along the way, guides reveal surprising historical connections and lesser-known stories that many racegoers have never discovered. It’s an ideal opportunity to see one of Chester’s most iconic landmarks from an entirely different perspective.

LITTLE MORETON HALL

Open: Saturday 12 September, 10.30am-5pm Few buildings capture the imagination quite like Little Moreton Hall. Surrounded by a picturesque moat, this wonderfully wonky Tudor manor house appears to lean at almost every angle thanks to centuries of movement in its timber frame. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors the chance to step inside a beautifully preserved Elizabethan home while uncovering the stories of the Moreton family and the generations who lived here. Keep an eye out for the intriguing ritual protection marks hidden throughout the building, believed to have been carved to ward off evil spirits. It’s one of Cheshire’s most distinctive historic houses and an unforgettable Heritage Open Days destination.

HOOTON PARK HANGARS

Open: Wednesday 16 & Thursday 17 September, 10am-4pm Aviation enthusiasts will relish the chance to explore the remarkable Grade II* listed hangars at Hooton Park. Originally built during the First World War, the vast structures formed part of RAF Hooton Park and remain among Britain’s most significant surviving aviation buildings. During Heritage Open Days, visitors can admire historic aircraft displayed within their original surroundings while learning about the site’s military and aviation heritage through informative audio-visual presentations. The combination of impressive engineering and fascinating wartime history makes this one of the county’s most unusual heritage experiences.

Nantwich Museum's imaginative workshop encourages visitors to think about their own place in history by creating a personal zine – a miniature magazine filled with memories, drawings, photographs and stories. Alongside the creative activities, participants can contribute to a community time capsule and temporary exhibition, helping preserve everyday experiences for future generations. Suitable for all ages, it’s a wonderfully inclusive event that demonstrates how everyone’s story contributes to the wider history of Cheshire.

THE KNUTSFORD GHOST WALK

Open: Sunday 20 September, 3pm For those who enjoy history with a supernatural twist, Knutsford’s Ghost Walk offers 90 minutes of chilling entertainment. Guided through the historic streets, visitors will hear spine-tingling tales of strange sightings, unexplained happenings and local legends linked to everything from centuries-old coaching inns to modernday businesses. Knutsford’s handsome Georgian architecture provides the perfect atmospheric backdrop, while the storytelling reveals a side of the town that many residents may never have encountered before. It’s history, folklore and theatrical fun rolled into one memorable afternoon.

KNUTSFORD GHOST WALKS

A TREK THROUGH TRIASSIC CHESTER

Open: Wednesday 16 September, 7.30pm-8.45pm History stretches back far beyond the Romans in this fascinating illustrated talk exploring Chester’s geological foundations. Hosted at St John the Baptist’s Church, the presentation examines the city’s ancient Triassic sandstone, explaining how it was formed millions of years ago before becoming the building material that defines so much of Chester’s distinctive architecture.

PARKFIELDS PARK

Open: Saturday 12 September, 10am-11.30am Warrington’s Parkfields Park is one of Cheshire’s lesser-known curiosities. Created as a modern interpretation of a prehistoric ceremonial landscape, it features a stone circle, henge, long barrow and other megalithic-inspired monuments designed to evoke Britain’s ancient past. During the guided walk, visitors can discover why the site was originally conceived, learn about its unique design and share their own memories and photographs. heritageopendays.org.uk

HOOTON PARK TRUST - SUPERMARINE SPITFIRE MK XIX PHOTO BY N HUTCHINSON

A H I S TO RY O F YO U – ZINE WORKSHOP

Open: Saturday 19 September, 10am-3.30pm Heritage isn’t only about the distant past. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS.indd 35

8/26/26 11:50 AM

AD GLENEAGLES - AD HH EXECUTIVE.indd 36

8/26/26 11:51 AM

ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

Treasured possessions The Gold & Silver Roadshow events head to the North West in September, an opportunity to cash in on a host of vintage objects

here will be a host of Gold & Silver Roadshows heading to the North West in September, with a special oneday event being held at The Sweeney Hall Hotel, Morda, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 9EU on 27th September; and Memorial Hall Oswestry, Smithfield Street, Oswestry, SY11 2EG on 30th September. What can you expect at these events? A very lucky couple called at one of their recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver coins. They were paid over £1,600 just for the coins alone. They turned out to be pre 1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected. Like most people, who can only dream of winning the pools or the lottery, a lot of normal households have a hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, teapots, trophies, trays and old objets

d’art. Why not get a free valuation from an expert at one of the roadshows? There is no queuing and their experts will give you a one on one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area, where there are no prying eyes, watching the process evolve. If you like the valuation, their expert will make you the same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself. Anything can be an unearthed treasure. Any old British or foreign coins. Any old wrist watches or pocket watches. All chains, bracelets, rings and bangles broken or not and in any condition. If you think it is a diamond ring, bring it along and they will confirm it to be genuine. If you have an old trophy or tankard or any silver coloured items, let them value them for you. Old war medals and old Masonic medals

can be very valuable. You will be surprised to hear that they have paid thousands of pounds for certain war medals and even the General Service Medal group is worth bringing especially if you have the original box. Also of great interest are old military uniforms, tunics, hats and any army, navy or RAF field gear. There are rarely any queues at the events and they can normally offer a valuation within a few minutes. They will give you a free valuation on which they back up with a cash offer, there and then. Get looking now in your old drawers, cupboards, and jewellery boxes. Look in the loft and the cellar, even old broken or squashed items of jewellery and silver are valuable. Of particular interest are gold and silver cigarette cases, Vesta Cases, thimbles, candlesticks, trays and all things silver are needed. Pocket watches in gold and silver and all wristwatches by: Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Longines, IWC are particularly in demand. 07378 965411 / goldandsilverroadshow.co.uk

R oa d s h ow e v e nts OSWESTRY Sunday 27th September, 10.30am-4pm The Sweeney Hall Hotel, Morda, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 9EU OSWESTRY Wednesday 30th September, 10.30am-4pm Memorial Hall Oswestry, Smithfield Street, Oswestry, SY11 2EG

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

GOLD SILVER ROADSHOW.indd 37

8/26/26 11:51 AM

SCAN ME for more

CHR I STM IS COM AS OPE I N NO G N 08 .10.2 026

AD E. H. BOOTH CO LTD.indd 38

8/26/26 11:51 AM

FOOD & DRINK

HI G H PR AISE THE IVY

The Ivy Spinning fields has recently unveiled its newly refreshed rooftop, The Ivy on the Roof, alongside a brand-new menu inspired by global flavours. New dishes include Royal Imperial Caviar blinis, Wagyu Tataki and the restaurant's signature Miso Black Cod. ivycollection.com

Just Bee Honey 40 • Booths 43 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD OPENER.indd 39

8/26/26 11:51 AM

PEXELS, MARINO KURUNIC

THE BEES KNEES

Just Bee Honey is fast becoming our go to for gut health and general wellbeing. Co-founder Joe Harper tells us about evolution, Dragons and a Cheshire escape

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

JUST BEE.indd 40

8/26/26 11:52 AM

FOOD & DRINK • Q&A

“THE NON-NEGOTIABLE IS THAT IT HAS TO TASTE DELICIOUS. PEOPLE LOOK FORWARD TO IT” Q Your family has a long history with beekeeping, yet you famously weren't a fan of bees or even honey as a child. How did that relationship evolve into building your own honey business? A It’s a running family joke. My grandad kept bees in Northern Ireland and my dad kept them in our family home in Lancashire, and I was the one who wanted nothing to do with any of it. I got stung so many times as a kid that I didn’t even like honey for years. What brought me back wasn’t the bees, it was the idea. Andy [Sugden], my co-founder, and I were working as accountants and wanted to build something around health and wellbeing, and honey turned out to be the perfect base for it. So I came at this from completely the opposite direction to most people in the industry. I wasn’t a beekeeper who fell in love with honey. I was someone who was slightly scared of it and gradually came to see what it could do. Q Many businesses struggled during the pandemic, but for Just Bee it became a turning point. What gave you the confidence to reinvent the company rather than walk away? A Honestly, it wasn’t confidence so much as having nothing left to lose. COVID killed around 80% of our revenue almost overnight when hospitality and retail closed, and the choice in front of us was shut the company down or reinvent it. Andy and I started blending wellness honey at home during lockdown, and the response was immediate. People were looking for natural ways to look after themselves, and our acacia honey with lemon, ginger, vitamins and echinacea struck a chord straight away. That early demand is what gave us the conviction to go all in. It wasn’t a unanimous decision, though. We had seven angel investors and not everyone agreed with abandoning five years of work. It came down to a board vote, which we won by the narrowest margin. That vote is the reason the business exists in the form it does today.

ANDY SUGDEN AND JOE HARPER

Q Consumers are increasingly looking for natural ways to support their health. Why do you think products like wellness honey have resonated so strongly compared with traditional supplements? A Because most wellness has forgotten about pleasure. Supplements largely come as pills, powders and capsules, and people give up on them because they’re a chore. The best product in the world does nothing if you stop taking it after three weeks. We take premium acacia honey and blend in vitamins and botanicals to support things like immunity, sleep, energy and gut health, but the nonnegotiable is that it has to taste delicious. People look forward to it, so they keep going, and consistency is what actually makes a difference. There’s also a wider shift away from ultra-processed foods and artificial ingredients, and people want something they recognise as food rather than something that feels clinical. Q You famously turned down Peter Jones' investment on Dragons' Den. With the benefit of hindsight, would you make the same decision again, and what did that experience teach you about trusting your instincts? A Yes, I would. It felt mad at the time, walking away from a Dragon, but the investment wasn’t right for us and something about it didn’t sit well. The exposure itself was rocket fuel regardless. It put us in front of millions of people overnight and

TURMERIC

brought a wave of new customers, job applicants and investor interest. What it taught me is that the terms of a deal matter more than the validation of getting one. It’s very easy to say yes to money and to someone believing in you, particularly when you’re young and struggling. But you’re choosing who you’re tied to for years. Trusting that instinct was one of the better calls we made. Q How do you switch off when you're home in Cheshire, and are there any favourite places, walks or local businesses you find yourself returning to? A Getting outside is what does it for me. Most days it’s the dog and a walk on Lindow Moss or round Carrs Park, and my four-year-old daughter is fairly insistent that any Carrs Park trip includes the playground. When I want something longer and a proper blow-out, I’ll head over to Teggs Nose. There’s nothing like a decent hike for clearing your head after a hard week. Beyond that, we’re big fans of the pubs in Mobberley, and the Bulls Head is the one we keep going back to. My daughter’s choice for lunch is always the café on Water Lane, where she’ll have a baked potato with tuna and cheese and nothing else will do. And when we’ve got friends coming for dinner, the Cheshire Smokehouse is where I go for the fancy bits.

justbeehoney.co.uk

GUT HEALTH

ROYAL HONEY

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

JUST BEE.indd 41

8/26/26 11:52 AM

FILLER GIN AGAIN.indd 42

8/26/26 11:52 AM

FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

Seasonal fare I Fall into ﬂavour this autumn with Booths

t’s the season for cosy nights with hearty recipes and an abundance of autumnal fruit and vegetables. From beans to pumpkins, mushrooms and Sherry, get to know your produce, try new, exciting recipes and discover autumn favourites at Booths.

TRY BOOTHS’ NEW SEASONAL RECIPES Hearty, healthier ingredients is what autumn’s all about, using earthy, savoury flavours to create lots of scrumptious dishes. Made using small and mild Haricot beans, carrots, parsnip and fresh tomatoes, try Haricot Bean Cassoulet, paired with seasonal greens with melted butter and a glass of your favourite red wine. For something a little different to your usual autumn meals, there’s the Venison Pot Roast With Sherry & Wild Mushrooms, a mouth-watering stew made with the best of seasonal produce.

porridge topper or even use their seeds to make pesto, there’s so much variety. Proud to work with local suppliers across the four counties they call Booths Country – Cheshire, Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria – Booths are happy to introduce their new pumpkin supplier. Located just outside Thirsk, Tom Spilman grows a wide range of pumpkins and squash on the family farm in Yorkshire. Each pumpkin is planted in late spring and spends the summer growing in fertile Yorkshire soil. Once ripe each pumpkin is harvested ready to be delivered to your nearest Booths store.

PERFECT PUMPKINS Versatile and slightly sweet, pumpkins are great for creating a range of tasty dishes. Roast their seeds to make pumpkin brittle, blend into soups and stews, warm until tender and serve with blackberries as a

Scan the QR code to explore their selection of recipes, from cosy meals to easy-to-prep salads, showstopping desserts and creative cocktails, there’s a recipe for everyone

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BOOTHS.indd 43

8/26/26 11:52 AM

FILLER BLOOBLOOM.indd 44

8/26/26 11:52 AM

FA S H I O N

SLOW fashion EMELLO

Just launched in Selfridges is Emello, a brand of wearable and considered sustainable womenswear. Each item is crafted with high-quality fabrics made in collaboration with independent, family run manufacturers and suppliers in Italy, Portugal and Turkey. emello.com

The Shoot 46 • Trend: Necklaces 49 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION OPENER.indd 45

8/26/26 11:53 AM

Changing

F A C E S Prepare for the transition to autumn with Barbour Cheshire Oaks’ Pre AW26 Modern Heritage collection BARBOUR.COM

SHOOT.indd 46

8/26/26 11:53 AM

SHOOT.indd 47

8/26/26 11:53 AM

FILLER MULBERRY.indd 48

8/26/26 11:53 AM

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Chain reaction New necklaces for layering or wearing solo B y PENDLE HARTE

ROBINSON PELHAM Paragon Diamond Necklace, £18,900 robinsonpelham.com

FRANCESCA VILLA 18k Yellow & White Gold Diamonds, Blue & Yellow Sapphires, Enamel, Titanium Keep Dancing Sea Horse Pendant, £8,860 francescavilla.it

MAYA BRENNER Endless Summer Necklace Blue Lagoon, £134 mayabrenner.co.uk

OTIUMBERG

TILLY SVEAAS

COEUR DE LION

Gold Vermeil Quartz Heart Necklace with Clear Quartz, £195 otiumberg.com

Wings of Peace Necklace, £240 tillysveaas.co.uk

Signature Collection Y-Style Necklace in Gold, £369 coeur-de-lion.org

HEAVENLY LONDON

H.AZEEM LONDON

Axis Pendant with Green Cord, £80 heavenlylondon.com

Gaia Oval Necklace, £70 hazeem.co.uk

Black & 18ct Gold Plated Silver White Topaz Green CZ Maya Necklace, £195 lauravann.co.uk

LAURA VANN

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PRODUCTS.indd 49

8/26/26 11:53 AM

give the gift of relaxation Gift vouchers available to purchase online and from our Spa Boutique.

lacebymanor.co.uk/spa

FILLER LACEBY MANOR.indd 50

8/26/26 11:54 AM

HEALTH & BEAUTY

A REAL GLOW CHARLOTTE TILBURY

The secret to Sienna Miller’s effortless, lit-from-within glow? Charlotte Tilbury’s skincare-infused Unreal System – a summer glow-up in three sticks and just three steps. charlottetilbury.com

Beauty News 53 • The Woodland Spa 54 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HB OPENER.indd 51

8/26/26 11:54 AM

THE

ENGLISH

RETREAT

Overnight Spa Break Designed for couples and friends alike, this curated experience invites you to reconnect and relax at an unhurried pace. Ease into tranquil spa serenity before retiring to your luxurious room, where a perfectly chilled bottle of English sparkling wine awaits to make your stay truly special.

£175

Book Now! thewoodlandspa.com

AD THE WOODLAND SPA.indd 52

T&Cs apply

JUST

8/26/26 11:54 AM

HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

FOCUS

HAIR HERO

EDITOR’S PICK

JVN

You might not have known that you need an Air Dry Cream, but if you want sleek, frizz-free hair that smells fabulous, this is your friend. There’s also a set of three miniatures in diﬀerent scents that’s perfect for travelling. Complete Air Dry Cream, Jumbo, £45.

Diva RITUAL CECRED

Want to have hair like Beyonce? Cecred is Beyonce’s own haircare brand and we love the Nourishing Hair Oil – it’s a blend of 13 oils and plant-based extracts designed to seal in moisture and add a soft, natural shine without silicone ﬁlters, £43.

cecred.com

DY S O N

Dyson’s new Supersonic Travel Hairdryer is a portable hair tool doesn’t compromise on hair health or styling results. Complete with global voltage compatibility, it weighs less than a can of soda, fitting easily into handbags, carry-ons, and cabin luggage, £249.99.

National Fitness Day returns this month: time to get moving

spacenk.com

AIR P OW E R

POWERED BY YOU ational Fitness Day returns on 16th September, encouraging people across the UK to discover just how how much difference a little extra movement can make. Organised by ukactive, this year’s theme is “Powered by you!”, celebrating the idea that physical activity belongs to everyone, whatever their age, ability or current fitness level. Crucially, taking part doesn’t have to mean signing up for a marathon or committing to hours in the gym. National Fitness Day is about finding achievable ways to move more – and hopefully enjoying them enough to continue. That could mean joining a free local exercise class, heading out for a 20-minute walk, trying a new sport or simply taking a tenminute stretch break during the working day. Workplaces are also encouraged to get involved through lunchtime walks, walking meetings and group activities, while gyms, leisure centres and sports clubs will be hosting events and taster sessions. The message is simple: doing something is better than doing nothing. Regular movement can support physical and mental wellbeing, but National Fitness Day also offers the perfect excuse to experiment. Discover the kind of activity that works for you. ukactive.com/national-fitness-day

dyson.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BEAUTY NEWS.indd 53

8/26/26 11:54 AM

Leave all your stresses and strains behind at The Woodland Spa

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WOODLAND SPA.indd 54

8/26/26 11:55 AM

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

estled in the heart of Lancashire, The Woodland Spa has quietly established itself as one of the UK’s most celebrated wellness destinations. Multiaward-winning and thoughtfully designed, it is a place where contemporary luxury meets the restorative power of nature, offering an escape that feels wonderfully removed from the pace of everyday life. While its appeal extends throughout the seasons, autumn reveals The Woodland Spa in a particularly enchanting light. As the landscape takes on rich russet, amber and golden hues, cooler days invite guests to embrace the contrast between crisp country air and the warmth of bubbling water, soothing treatments and beautifully considered interiors. It is the kind of place where hours slip by unnoticed, and the feeling of being on holiday arrives almost

instantly – no airport queues or passport required. The spa’s architecture has been carefully conceived to blur the boundaries between indoors and out. Expanses of floor-toceiling glass frame uninterrupted views of the changing landscape, allowing the colours of the season to become part of the experience, while beautifully landscaped terraces offer the chance to step outside and breathe in the crisp autumn air. Every detail has been designed to foster a sense of calm, creating a slower rhythm that feels particularly welcome as summer fades. Outside, gently steaming hot tubs provide peaceful pockets of relaxation, while the terraces offer the perfect vantage point from which to watch the seasons change. Wrapped in a robe with a warm drink in hand, guests can soak up the tranquillity as birdsong and the gentle sound of flowing water provide an almost meditative backdrop. Whether enjoying a crisp morning beneath pale autumn skies or lingering into the early evening as the light begins to fade, there is an unmistakable sense of serenity that defines every visit. At the heart of the outdoor experience is the UK’s longest infinity-edge spa pool, located on The Rooftop, where guests can drift effortlessly while taking in peaceful views across the Lancashire countryside. On the ground floor, The Terrace’s bubbling hot tubs offer a wonderfully indulgent retreat from the cooler air, while spacious

seating areas provide the perfect place to relax between treatments or enjoy a drink as the landscape slips into its autumnal palette. And, unlike many spas that impose a two-hour curfew, guests can spend the entire day here, allowing plenty of time to properly switch off. Dining is equally considered. The Rooftop and Terrace Bar provide the perfect setting for leisurely lunches, elegant small plates and expertly crafted cocktails, with the changing countryside providing a beautiful backdrop. As daylight fades and the evenings draw in, Bertram’s Restaurant offers a sophisticated conclusion to the day. Celebrated for its award-winning cuisine, refined interiors and impeccable service, it is a destination in its own right, where carefully curated seasonal menus showcase the finest ingredients with creativity and flair. Whether enjoyed as an indulgent spa day, a restorative overnight 'spacation' or a weekend escape at Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort, The Woodland Spa captures the essence of modern luxury. In autumn, however, it offers something altogether more evocative – a chance to embrace the season’s quieter pace, reconnect with nature and savour life’s slower pleasures. It is a destination that proves the most memorable escapes don’t always require travelling far; sometimes they’re waiting, quite beautifully, right on your doorstep. thewoodlandspa.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WOODLAND SPA.indd 55

8/26/26 11:55 AM

Life is about the company you keep V I S I T U S AT O U R KN U T S FO R D STO R E

Knutsford_297x210mm_F.indd FILLER COTSWOLD.indd 56 1

COT SWOL D CO .CO M

OLD QUA SW

CO T

taesevoL enotS sirroM

RANTE

18/05/2026 14:37 8/26/26 11:55 AM

INTERIORS

LIGHT HOUSE C R I T TA L W I N D OW S

Internal and external systems from Crittall Windows combine minimal sightlines with maximum glazing, allowing daylight and borrowed light to flow throughout a property. Backed by more than 175 years of craftsmanship, Crittall creates beautifully designed architectural features that unite heritage character with contemporary performance. crittall-windows.co.uk

Farrow & Ball 58 • Design Central 62 • Products: Cutlery 67 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS OPENER.indd 57

8/26/26 11:55 AM

BEYOND THE

paint From ﬁrst impressions to lasting comfort, discover how expert colour advice from Farrow & Ball can completely transform the way you live

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FARROW BALL.indd 58

8/26/26 11:56 AM

INTERIORS • FEATURE

BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS ARE CREATED THROUGH EXPERT KNOWLEDGE AND GENUINE COLLABORATION

here is a moment in every decorating project when inspiration gives way to uncertainty. Perhaps you’ve collected countless screenshots, built up a wall of colour on Pinterest, and still something just doesn’t quite fit. More often than not, it isn’t a lack of imagination that’s holding people back. It’s knowing how to make every decision work together. That’s where Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy takes a refreshingly different approach. Rather than beginning with paint charts, the service starts with people. Every consultation is built around understanding how a home is lived in, how each room connects to the next and, perhaps most importantly, how you want your home to feel every day. Colour is treated as far more than decoration; it’s the first layer of comfort, quietly shaping the atmosphere long before the furniture is arranged or the finishing touches are added.

Whether you’re redesigning a single room, renovating an entire property or planning a commercial project, the consultancy is designed to remove the guesswork while giving clients the confidence to make bold or beautifully understated choices. Every project begins with conversation. Before the consultation itself, your Colour Consultant takes the time to understand your home, your aspirations and your personal style. Some clients arrive with detailed mood boards and a clear vision, while others simply know how they want their home to feel. Both approaches are equally valuable because every recommendation is tailored to the individual rather than following trends. The consultation itself is collaborative from start to finish. Rather than prescribing colours, consultants explore the property alongside you, noticing the details that often go unseen. The changing quality of natural light throughout the day, original architectural features, existing furniture, flooring, artwork and even the view through the windows all become part of the conversation. It’s this wider perspective that often makes the greatest difference. Instead of treating rooms as separate decorating projects, Farrow & Ball encourages a whole-home approach. Hallways, staircases and connecting spaces are considered just as carefully as kitchens or bedrooms, allowing colours to flow naturally while still giving each room its own distinct personality. Even exterior surroundings, from garden planting to brickwork, can influence the palette, creating a home that feels beautifully connected inside and out. Of course, every household lives differently. A family kitchen has different demands from a peaceful reading room, while an openplan entertaining space needs to balance energy with relaxation. Colour Consultancy isn’t simply about selecting attractive shades; it’s about creating environments that genuinely support everyday life. The service is equally accessible whether you choose an in-home or virtual appointment. Virtual consultations provide the same one-to-one expertise, with colour cards and fan decks supplied beforehand so

ideas can be explored together in real time. For those welcoming a consultant into their home, sampling tools allow colours, finishes and patterns to be viewed within the unique conditions of each room, helping decisions feel informed rather than instinctive. Once the consultation is complete, clients receive a comprehensive set of personalised recommendations covering colours, finishes, wallpaper suggestions, practical guidance and quantities, allowing every aspect of the project to move forward with confidence. The service also includes a 15 per cent discount, making it even easier to begin bringing the vision to life. Perhaps what makes the experience stand apart is that the relationship doesn’t end once the paint is ordered. Colour Consultants remain available for follow-up advice, with showrooms and customer services continuing to support clients throughout the decorating journey. It’s an approach that reflects a steadfast belief at Farrow & Ball: that beautiful interiors aren’t created through one perfect colour alone, but through thoughtful guidance, expert knowledge and genuine collaboration. In a world where decorating advice is often reduced to social media trends and fleeting fashions, Colour Consultancy offers something far more enduring. It gives homeowners the confidence to make decisions that not only look beautiful today, but continue to feel right for years to come. Because the best interiors aren’t simply designed to impress. They’re designed to feel like home. Turn over for an exclusive interview with a local Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FARROW BALL.indd 59

8/26/26 11:56 AM

INTERIORS • Q&A

FIRST HAND

knowledge Absolutely meets Naomi C, the local Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant covering Harrogate and Wilmslow Q Tell us a little bit about your career with Farrow & Ball… A I’ve been working for Farrow & Ball for over five years now, covering both Yorkshire and the North West. I feel extremely lucky to have the privilege of stepping into people’s homes and collaboratively working together to create schemes that completely transform their spaces. Q Can colour actually change how a room feels, even if nothing else changes? A Absolutely. Paint and wallpaper can dramatically change how a room looks and feels. Paint, in particular, is a really costeffective way of changing how a room looks,

at a fraction of the cost of flooring, textiles and furniture, but it can be one of the most impactful ways to transform a space. Wrapping a whole room, like a kitchen, in a colour such as Dimity, which has warm undertones, can instantly make a space feel warm and inviting. It can give a busy kitchen a more relaxed feel. Alternatively, creating a decadent dining room in something like Brinjal fills the room with a more opulent atmosphere. Q How do you help couples or

families with very different tastes reach one scheme everyone loves? A Probably one of the most important

parts of understanding a customer’s brief is listening to how they would like that space to feel, and equally importantly, how they use it. The biggest battle is usually between light and dark, which is completely understandable. Some people love neutrals for their calming impact, while others love colour because it makes them feel energised and instantly creates a bold statement. I like to start by understanding who predominantly uses a room and what its purpose is, whether it’s an office space or a family movie room. This can instantly help determine what type of colours might work best. Lots of clients want a dark, moody colour in an office space, but as a working environment, many people find that they don’t feel as motivated in very dark spaces. However, a family movie room that is predominantly used in the evening and lit by soft lighting could be the perfect space to create a tranquil sense of escapism with a colour like De Nimes. If couples have been clashing over colours for weeks, having a colour consultation is a great way to get an expert point of view that is completely independent. Q Do you have a favourite Farrow & Ball colour right now? A Oh, that’s tough because it can change weekly. I think I would have to say I’m drawn to Scallop at the moment. It’s a beautifully soft, brown-based pink that works so well in every setting because of its warm undertones. I’m also really enjoying some of the neutrals, like Lime White and Fawn from our Archive Collection, particularly for kitchens. They are light enough not to feel heavy, but the green undertones give them a crisper interest than some creamy whites.

Visit your local showroom to find out more about Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy. Book an appointment with Naomi in store at 18-22 Albert Street, Harrogate, HG1 1JT, or 19 Church Street, Wilmslow, SK9 1AX, and visit farrow-ball.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FARROW BALL QA.indd 60

8/26/26 11:56 AM

FI ND A SHOWROOM

FILLER HARVEY JONES.indd 161 HJ_Press_Ad_Absolutely.indd

8/26/26 11:56 AM 22/04/2026 11:02

DECADE IN DESIGN

GRAHAM & BROWN WILL BE EXHIBITING AT DESIGN CENTRAL

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DESIGN CENTRAL.indd 62

8/26/26 11:57 AM

INTERIORS • Q&A

Celebrating ten years of inspiration, Design Central returns with its biggest and boldest showcase yet. Founder Catherine McCubbin tells us about origins, dealing with adversity and showcasing the North

or a decade, Design Central has been bringing together the very best of the interiors industry, creating an inspiring meeting place where designers, architects, specifiers, retailers and leading luxury brands can connect, collaborate and discover what’s next. As the event celebrates its landmark 10th anniversary this September, it returns to the magnificent surroundings of Capesthorne Hall in Cheshire with an expanded programme that reflects just how far it has come since launching with only a handful of exhibitors in 2016. Today, the trade show is recognised as one of the UK’s leading regional interiors events, welcoming more than 100 premium brands spanning furniture, fabrics, lighting, flooring, wallcoverings and home accessories, alongside a packed schedule of expert talks and networking opportunities. This year’s anniversary edition promises to be the most ambitious yet, introducing enhanced visitor experiences, fresh learning opportunities and new industry collaborations, while retaining the relaxed, thoughtfully curated atmosphere that has become Design Central’s hallmark – and here, founder Catherine McCubbin tells Absolutely what we can expect.

CATHERINE WITH MARC PRATS AND RYAN WENHAM OF LARSEN ARCHITECTURE

Q Design Central is celebrating its 10th anniversary this September. Looking back, what inspired you to launch the event, and did you ever imagine it would become the UK's largest professional design event outside London? A I was inspired to launch Design Central at “yet another” interior event being held in London. Interior design has been and still is very London-centric. There are a plethora of great designers, architects and all types of interior-related creatives outside London. The cost in time, travel and accommodation has only increased in the last few years and this makes a regional design event even more important to designers. Q What do you think has been the secret to the event's success over the past decade? A From its inception in March 2016 to our first event in September 2016, I would never have thought we would be still going strong ten years later, nor be the largest interiors trade event outside London. There is no secret to success other than hard work, great exhibitors

who believe in us and believe in all the creatives in the regions. Q Capesthorne Hall provides a spectacular backdrop for the show. How much does the venue contribute to the atmosphere and overall visitor experience? A Capesthorne Hall has been a massive influence in our events, especially its spectacular setting – its juxtaposition with Jodrell Bank in the background as you drive up to the building. The rooms are warm, inviting and we have great space to erect our marquee on the rear terrace. The staff have such a fantastic attitude, and we love working with them. I’d recommend them to anyone looking for a venue for a wedding, party or corporate event. Q You've built an incredibly strong network across the design industry. What have you learned about bringing together designers, brands and suppliers in a way that genuinely benefits everyone? A We have built a fantastically welcoming A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DESIGN CENTRAL.indd 63

8/26/26 11:57 AM

INTERIORS • Q&A

SOME OF THE DESIGNERS APPEARING AT DESIGN CENTRAL NATURALMAT X WALLACE SEWELL WOOL THROW

environment for everyone, that’s so important. One of our exhibitors once said: “We love coming to Design Central, it’s so easy, everything is taken care of from set up to lunches and it allows us to do our job with ease.” Visitors love the atmosphere, the ease with which they can connect to companies and it’s generally easy to get to. Q Interior design trends evolve

constantly. What colours, materials or styles are you expecting to dominate homes over the next 12 months? A Interior designers are not looking at trends per se, but work with their clients to help them build the environment they want to live in. But, earthy paint colours, natural stone, rich wood tones along with curated personal items are certainly being explored for the next 12 months. Mass produced furniture is also being replaced with carefully selected vintage pieces. I have just bought a mid-century Danish dining table and it’s fabulous! Q The design world is increasingly focused

on sustainability and craftsmanship. Are those priorities becoming more important for both exhibitors and visitors? A These priorities have been key with designers for a long time; their belief is in buying beautifully crafted furniture that lasts longer than a couple of years. Yes it may cost more initially, however some pieces will last a lifetime. Naturalmat are an exhibitor of ours, their mattresses have a lifetime guarantee, they can re-tuft, replace the covers

or you can donate your old mattress and they have it washed and donated to furniture charities. Their B Corp is very important to them and to us. Q As someone based in Cheshire, what do you love most about living and working in the county, and has the region's creativity influenced your own journey? A Born and bred in the North I love “banging the drum” for northern designers and creatives. In Cheshire we have great regional transport links, and this enables our visitors and exhibitors to reach us easily. Cheshire was known for its silk production (Macclesfield) and ribbon production (Congleton), which are both close to Capesthorne Hall. My own creativity was massively influenced by the late Gillian Doxford Hook, a Chester-based designer. She taught me so much over the years and I still miss her today. The last time she visited Design Central she said to me how proud she was of what I had achieved with Design Central. Q Design Central is known for championing both established names and emerging talent. How important is it to give smaller brands and independent designers a platform alongside industry leaders? A Incredibly important, everyone needs a start somewhere and we try to provide that, such as Louise Williamson Art who is with us this year. Q This year's anniversary show introduces new learning opportunities and collaborations. What can

visitors look forward to that they've never experienced before? A This year, Design Central is partnering with Larsen Architecture to introduce new business-focused learning opportunities. There will also be business-based talks from Marc Prats and Ryan Wenham, plus interviews with author and colour psychologist, Karen Haller. Q Running a major national event must come with its fair share of challenges. What has been the biggest hurdle you've overcome during the past decade, and what did it teach you? A COVID! It taught me that people are caring and very kind and understanding, and that, along with very hard work, kept us going. Q Finally, when visitors leave Design Central's 10th anniversary event this September, what do you hope they'll be talking about on the journey home? A How totally inspired they feel from meeting new suppliers, current suppliers and friends and colleagues, and what a wonderful, informative and connective day they have had.

designcentraluk.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DESIGN CENTRAL.indd 64

8/26/26 11:58 AM

Motcombs Narrow Herringbone, Residence® Collection

Visit our Cheshire Design Centre We are delighted to welcome you to our refreshed Cheshire Design Centre. Discover every Ted Todd floor using our pull out panels to experience the tone, texture and craftsmanship. Enjoy a personalised consultation with our wood floor specialists to help you find your perfect floor.

FILLER TED TODD.indd 65

Book an appointment 18 Chesford Grange, Warrington, WA1 4RQ Find us at junction 21 off the M6 with close links to the M62 and M56. Free parking available on site.

8/26/26 11:58 AM

AD EWEMOO - AD ROLUX UK.indd 66

8/26/26 11:58 AM

INTERIORS • TREND

OKA Pompadour faux shagreen cutlery set, 28 piece, £195 oka.com

COX & COX 16-piece cutlery set, wooden handles, £75 coxandcox.co.uk

CASA BY JJ

ADDISON ROSS

Four-piece Bamboo cutlery set, £80 casabyjj.com

Wave cutlery, 16-piece set, £80 addisonross.com

NKUKU Osko brushed gold cutlery set of 16, £190 nkuku.com

KNIVES OUT

CASA BY JJ Four-piece Pearl cutlery set, £80 casabyjj.com

Colourful cutlery is having a moment By P E N D L E H A R T E

VISTA ALLEGRE

SOPHIE ALLPORT Green handle 12-piece cutlery set, £150 sophieallport.com

REBECCA UDALL Tortoiseshell four-piece set, £60 rebeccaudall.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Domo matt gold cutlery set of 16, £495 micucci.store

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PRODUCTS.indd 67

8/26/26 12:03 PM

Emma Mackley Private Travel is an independent agency specialising in luxury tailor made holidays.

Over 20 years’ experience and contacts in the luxury travel industry.

Unbiased, honest and friendly advice on all holiday types and destinations. Romantic escapes and cultural city breaks to fun family getaways or an adventurous trip of a lifetime.

Appointments can be made to discuss your travel requirements at a time and place to suit you. All travel arrangements are made through ATOL bonded tour operators. Relax and let me do the research, planning and booking for you.

+44 7412 018515 hello@emmamackleytravel.com www.emmamackleytravel.com FILLER EMMA MACKLEY.indd 68

8/26/26 12:03 PM

TRAVEL

ON THE CASE KAPTEN & SON

The key to a successful holiday? Obviously choosing the right location is paramount, but after that, surely it's packing. Pack right and you'll have everything you need to hand – and what you need to pack right is a suitable bag. Kapten & Son's collection has them all, clever pockets, dividers, and flexible options. kapten-son.com

Kandima, Maldives 70 • Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 75 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TRAVEL OPENER.indd 69

8/26/26 12:03 PM

P A R A D I S E

XXX IMAGE CAPTION XXX

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MALDIVES.indd 70

8/26/26 12:03 PM

TRAVEL • MALDIVES

Kandima gives the classic Maldivian escape an energetic, stylish and unexpectedly playful twist B y C R A I G D AV I E S

here is a particular image of the Maldives that has become almost impossible to escape: an overwater villa, a hammock suspended above impossibly turquoise water and very little to trouble the diary beyond lunch, a swim and the important business of deciding where to watch the sunset. Kandima Maldives has all of that, of course. What it also has is rather more momentum. Set in the Dhaalu Atoll on an island stretching for almost three kilometres, Kandima takes the ingredients that make the Maldives so irresistible – dazzling white sand, warm Indian Ocean water and a colour palette that seems to run through every conceivable shade of blue – and adds something unexpected: energy. This is a resort where you can dive, snorkel, cycle, play tennis, make art, work out at midnight, dance after dark or, should the mood take you, race an electric go-kart beside the ocean. Getting here provides the first reminder that the Maldives really does look like the photographs. From Malé, Kandima can be reached by domestic flight and speedboat transfer, and as the resort

appears amid the blue, the transition from London life to island life feels satisfyingly dramatic. Once ashore, it’s clear this isn’t a resort overly concerned with traditional notions of Maldivian luxury. There is colour, contemporary architecture and a playful confidence to the place. Bicycles are part of the furniture, music drifts from the bars and there is a sense that you are arriving at a tropical resort with the scale and variety of a small village rather than disappearing into an isolated honeymoon hideaway. That distinction is important. Kandima isn’t the Maldives at its most hushed. It’s the Maldives with its shoes off and music on. ISL AND LIFE There are 270 studios and villas on offer, ranging from Beach and Sky Studios to Beach Pool Villas and those quintessentially Maldivian overwater retreats. The aesthetic throughout is contemporary: clean lines, generous proportions and splashes of colour rather than dark woods and faux-rustic castaway chic. For the full experience, however, it is difficult to resist life above the lagoon. Aqua Villas have private decks and direct access to the ocean, while Aqua Villas with Swirl Pools add an outdoor pool

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MALDIVES.indd 71

8/26/26 12:04 PM

INTERIORS • FEATURE

to the equation. Ocean Pool Villas go further still with private pools and uninterrupted Indian Ocean views – and, if luck is on your side, dolphins passing in front. There’s something wonderfully indulgent about waking up, opening the curtains and seeing nothing but water. Morning entertainment comes courtesy of the reef fish beneath the deck; your commute to the sea involves a few steps. Kandima’s scale becomes apparent when you start exploring. Cycling quickly became one of my favourite ways to get around, particularly towards the end of the afternoon when the sun begins to soften. Palm-lined paths link villas with restaurants, pools, sports facilities and quieter corners of beach, and moving between them gives the island a sense of discovery that smaller resorts can sometimes lack. And there is a lot to discover. The facilities include tennis and badminton courts, a football pitch, beach volleyball and KULA Art Studio, where guests can join painting and craft classes with the resident artist. Then there is Fast Track, billed as the Maldives’ first asphalt oceanfront electric go-kart track, a 500-metre circuit that may not feature prominently in most fantasies of Maldivian serenity, but rather sums up Kandima’s determination to do things differently. There’s more indoor entertainment at PlaySpace, Kandima’s dedicated gaming hub, designed for all ages and packed with activities when you fancy a break from the sun. It’s another slightly unexpected addition to a Maldivian resort – and further evidence that Kandima has thought beyond the traditional beach-and-lagoon formula. The same applies to fitness. BURN is open 24 hours a day, while the wider sporting offering means it would take considerable determination to remain

AQUA VILLAS

LINEAR PLUS DRAWERS

PLAYSPACE

horizontal for an entire week. Not that anyone is judging if you do. FOOD FOR THOUGHT With a resort of this size, dining could easily become the weak link: enormous buffets designed to satisfy everybody but excite nobody. Happily, Kandima’s food offering is one of the reasons I would return. There is enough variety to ensure that dinner

Kandima doesn't ask you to subscribe to one particular idea of paradise feels like an occasion rather than a routine. Flavour and Zest provide the more relaxed market-style international dining, but the speciality restaurants are where Kandima really starts to show its personality. Azure is exactly the sort of restaurant you hope to find on a tropical island. Sitting beside the beach, it has a Mediterranean sensibility that suits the surroundings perfectly. Fresh seafood, salads and grilled dishes are the natural order of the day, and this is somewhere where lunch can very easily consume an afternoon. Add a chilled glass of wine, the lagoon a few metres away and nowhere particularly urgent to be, and plans tend to evaporate. Smoked offers something altogether richer. Built around an open BBQ kitchen, its menu moves through steaks, ribs, fresh fish and vegetarian dishes. Watching food cooked over the flames adds theatre without tipping into gimmickry, and it feels sufficiently special for a celebratory dinner while retaining the informality that Kandima does so well. Then there is Sea Dragon. Positioned over the water and specialising in Asian

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MALDIVES.indd 72

8/26/26 12:04 PM

• MALDIVES • XXXXX TRAVEL XXXXXXXX

cuisine served family-style, it is one of the island’s most atmospheric dinner spots. There is the rather wonderful distraction of blacktip reef sharks gliding through the water beneath the restaurant – the sort of detail that makes even an excellent meal difficult to replicate once home. The casual options are equally important because they give the resort rhythm. Aroma Café overlooks a lake rather than the ocean and is an appealing stop for coffee, juices and baked treats; Deli covers quick bites and ice cream; while Breeze supplies the poolside drinks and soundtrack. It’s this choice that makes a longer stay work. One day can involve coffee at Aroma, lunch overlooking the water and dinner at Sea Dragon; another can revolve around the pool before heading to Smoked. Despite the resort’s size, dining doesn’t feel corporate or over-orchestrated. INTO THE BLUE If the restaurants surprised me, the ocean ultimately defined the trip. Aquaholics, Kandima’s diving and watersports centre, ensures that the lagoon is something to experience rather than simply photograph. Diving and marine biology activities sit alongside a watersports programme, and there is something particularly appealing about being able to switch so easily between doing nothing and doing rather a lot. Paddleboarding across water that barely seems to move is an excellent way to begin the day. Snorkelling, meanwhile, reveals the other Maldives: coral formations, flashes of tropical colour and rays moving silently beneath the surface. We loved seeing schools of reef fish and having encounters with rays, while the wider

IT IS A HAVEN FOR WATERSPORTS

Dhaalu Atoll offers opportunities for divers to see turtles, reef sharks and eagle rays. It is this accessibility that makes the difference. You don’t feel as though every adventure needs to become a major expedition. The ocean is simply there, waiting. Eventually, even the most enthusiastic diver needs some downtime, and esKape Spa provides the counterpoint to Kandima’s activity. Hidden amid tropical greenery, it offers treatments alongside steam and sauna facilities, yoga, a nail bar and hairdresser. After several days of swimming, cycling and being in the sun, surrendering an afternoon to the spa feels entirely justified. Families are well catered for too. Kandiland runs a daily programme of activities for younger visitors, while the abundance of sport, water-based activities and space gives older

FAST TRACK

children considerably more to occupy them than another afternoon around the pool. That helps explain why Kandima feels different from resorts built almost exclusively around honeymooners. Couples can find romance and privacy here – quite easily – but families and groups don’t feel like interlopers. As darkness falls, the island changes gear again. Music and live entertainment replace some of the daytime activity, and Breeze becomes a natural meeting point. Yet the clever part is that participation is optional. Kandima may have more going on than many Maldivian islands, but you can always walk away from it and find silence, stars and the sound of the Indian Ocean. And perhaps that is the real luxury here: choice. Kandima doesn’t ask you to subscribe to one particular idea of paradise. You can spend the morning beneath the ocean and the afternoon beneath an umbrella. You can have dinner cooked over flames at Smoked or linger over Asian food above the lagoon. You can cycle three kilometres, take an art class, visit the spa, go diving or ignore absolutely everything and sit on the beach. For anyone imagining the Maldives solely as a romantic cocoon, Kandima might initially come as a surprise. It is bigger, brighter and considerably more energetic than the archetypal private-island retreat. For me, its scale is precisely what makes it compelling. The Maldives supplies the beauty effortlessly. Kandima gives you reasons to engage with it. The villas are stylish, the dining impressively varied and the service warm, but my strongest memories aren’t confined to a room: they’re of cycling beneath the palms, slipping into the lagoon, discovering what lives below the surface and sitting over the water as another Maldivian day disappeared. You still return home with the photographs everyone expects: white beaches, blue lagoons and sunsets that scarcely look real. Kandima simply makes sure you return with a few stories as well. For full pricing information, visit kandima.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MALDIVES.indd 73

8/26/26 12:04 PM

FILLER WESTAWAY.indd 74

8/26/26 12:04 PM

TRAVEL • DUBAI

It holds the Guinness World Records title for Most Waterslides in a Waterpark

FANTASY

ISLAND Dubai’s Atlantis, The Palm, is a vast, sprawling world of its own

tlantis, The Palm is a 46-hectare, oceanthemed entertainment resort on Dubai’s man-made Palm Jumeirah island. The resort draws inspiration from the legendary lost city of Atlantis, blending Arabian architectural motifs such as Moorish archways, palm-shaped pillars and hand-wrought iron detailing with dramatic features. The vast resort holds 1,544 rooms and suites across two 22-storey towers, including six signature suites (notably two Underwater Suites), an Imperial Club with dedicated lounge and VIP perks, and over 2km of private beachfront, making it the largest continuous privately-owned stretch in Dubai. Dining is a major pillar, with 38 restaurants, bars and lounges spanning celebrity-chef venues (Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen and Street Pizza,

Nobu, Hakkasan, FZN by Björn Frantzén and Brasserie Frantzén), Michelinstarred options, and the award-winning underwater restaurant Ossiano. Family entertainment runs through Wavehouse, and Casablanca Beach Club, is an elevated beach club with a designer twist. The resort’s signature attraction is Aquaventure World, now the world’s largest at 22.5 hectares. It holds the Guinness World Records title for Most Waterslides in a Waterpark, with over 105 rides and attractions across three towers, three river rides, and dedicated kids’ zones, plus record-breaking slides like Odyssey of Terror and Shockwave. It’s also the Middle East’s first certified Autism Center waterpark. Marine life is central to the experience: The Lost World Aquarium and The Ambassador Lagoon together house over 65,000 animals across 250+ species, AZA-accredited since 2020. Dolphin Bay and Sea Lion Point offer conservationfocused encounter programmes. Wellness is served by the 2,400sqm AWAKEN Spa (27 treatment rooms, holistic "four elements" concept, vegan/ cruelty-free products) plus a fitness centre, nail bar, and salon/barber. Shoppers can browse The Avenues, a 2,200sqm retail souk with 30+ luxury boutiques including Tiffany & Co. and Stefano Ricci. The resort has earned extensive recognition, including multiple World Travel Awards, Forbes Travel Guide recognition, and sustainability honours, cementing its status as one of the region’s premier destinations. atlantis.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DUBAI.indd 75

8/26/26 12:04 PM

AD STONYHURST COLLEGE.indd 76

8/26/26 12:05 PM

SPECI A L

BEST OF ALL WOR LDS T H E K I N G ' S S C H O O L C H E ST E R

The King’s School Chester is a leading independent day school for girls and boys aged 4-18. With more than 475 years of history, it combines academic excellence with extensive sporting, artistic and cocurricular opportunities, encouraging pupils to develop confidence, curiosity and character. kingschester.co.uk

Inside this section 7 8 S U S TA I N A B L E A P P R O A C H 8 1 H I S T O R Y AT TAT T O N PA R K 8 2 VA L U E O F P R E P E D U C AT I O N

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDUCATION SPECIAL OPENER.indd 77

8/26/26 12:05 PM

Forward

THINKING Abbey Gate College is celebrating winning a national award for its Sustainability Conference

bbey Gate College has been named winner of the Outstanding Conservation Initiative Award at the 2026 National Conservation Education Awards, organised by Chester Zoo. The award recognises the impact of the College’s pioneering Cheshire Schools Sustainability Conference, which has become a flagship event bringing together young people from across the county to address environmental challenges and drive positive change. Now in its third year, last November’s conference welcomed more than 140 students aged 8–18, alongside teachers from eight schools across Cheshire. Led by Abbey Gate College students and opened by the Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sherin Akhtar, the event provided opportunities for collaboration, discussion and the sharing of sustainability initiatives. Students participated in workshops, presentations and discussions focused on environmental responsibility, leadership and practical solutions to some of the most pressing sustainability issues facing society today. Emma Flatman, Head of Sustainability at Abbey Gate College, says:

“We are thrilled to receive this national recognition. The conference was created to give young people a platform to share ideas, learn from each other and recognise the importance of collective action in creating a more sustainable future. “Winning this award reflects the passion, creativity and commitment

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABBEY GATE.indd 78

8/26/26 12:06 PM

EDUCATION • FEATURE

shown by students across all participating schools, and we are incredibly proud of what they have achieved together.” The conference forms part of Abbey Gate College’s Community Partnerships Programme, which fosters collaboration between schools, businesses, charities and community organisations across the region. Kayleigh Pitcher, Community Partnerships Coordinator, adds: “This award highlights the strength of partnership working and what can be achieved when young people are given opportunities to lead meaningful conversations around sustainability. We are grateful to all of our partner schools and look forward to building on this success in the future.” Sustainability is one of Abbey Gate College’s three Pillars of Purpose and is woven throughout the educational experience, encouraging pupils to become informed, responsible and proactive global citizens. Headmaster, Craig Jenkinson, says: “We are immensely proud to see the Cheshire Schools Sustainability Conference recognised with this prestigious national award. It demonstrates the remarkable commitment of our students

and staff, and the positive impact that can be achieved when schools work together towards a shared goal. “This is a proud moment for Abbey Gate College and for everyone who has contributed to the success of the conference over the past three years,” he adds.

The College hopes that the success of the conference will continue to inspire collaboration across the region and further strengthen young people’s engagement with sustainability and environmental leadership. abbeygatecollege.co.uk

CRAIG JENKINSON, HEAD OF ABBEY GATE COLLEGE

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABBEY GATE.indd 79

8/26/26 12:06 PM

AD MANCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS.indd 80

8/27/26 7:44 AM

EDUCATION • FOCUS PROJECTION MAPPING AT BEYOND THE VIEW, TATTON PARK

B E Y O N D S C R O L L I N G Tatton Park is reimagining how young people engage with culture, using cutting-edge technology to bring art, history and heritage vividly to life

BEYOND THE VIEW – TATTON PARK CANALETTO EXHIBITION

echnology is often blamed for keeping young people glued to their phones, but one of Cheshire’s best-loved heritage attractions is taking a refreshingly different approach. Rather than asking visitors to switch off their screens, Tatton Park is embracing digital innovation to inspire a new generation to discover art, history and culture in ways that feel immersive, relevant and engaging. Running until 1st November, Beyond the View: Canaletto is far more than a traditional art exhibition. It combines the timeless beauty of the celebrated Venetian artist’s work with state-of-the-art technology, creating an experience that encourages visitors to interact, explore and uncover stories that might otherwise remain hidden. It’s a fascinating example of how heritage attractions are evolving to connect with younger audiences without compromising their historic significance. Visitors can expect everything from immersive floor projections and interactive touchscreens to projection mapping, digital story maps and lifelike Metahuman avatars. Rather than replacing the artworks and collections themselves, these digital elements enhance the experience, offering fresh perspectives and making centuries-old history feel remarkably contemporary. It’s a reminder that technology can deepen rather than diminish our appreciation of the past.

One of the exhibition’s standout moments is the unveiling of a remarkable digital recreation of Ludovico Ughi's 1729 map of Venice. Acquired by Samuel Hill, the beautifully preserved map has never previously been fully assembled. Thanks to advanced scanning technology from Esri UK, visitors can now explore the complete map digitally for the very first time, revealing an extraordinary snapshot of 18th century Venice in unprecedented detail. Elsewhere, history quite literally comes alive through See Me Appear, an immersive installation by London-based collective Studio Peut-Porter. Using virtual performance capture, augmented reality and atmospheric soundscapes, the experience imagines the voices and stories of Samuel Egerton’s female relatives, Beatrix, Hester and Elizabeth. By combining digital storytelling with handcrafted artefacts, the installation shines a light on figures whose stories have often been overlooked, adding another compelling layer to Tatton Park’s rich history. At a time when debates around screen time continue to dominate, Tatton Park is demonstrating that the conversation doesn’t have to be about choosing between technology and culture. Instead, Beyond the View: Canaletto proves that, in the right hands, digital innovation can become a powerful gateway to discovering Cheshire’s remarkable heritage and the stories that continue to shape it. tattonpark.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TATTON PARK.indd 81

8/26/26 12:06 PM

POSITIVES As more parents weigh up options and budgets, Nathaniel McCullagh of Simply Learning Tuition considers the long-term value of a prep education

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

VALUE OF PREP EDUCATION.indd 82

8/26/26 12:06 PM

EDUCATION • PREP

or many parents, paying for independent school for their child’s entire education is no longer an option. With the inclusion of VAT, average day fees are now around £19,000 a year or £50,000 for boarding, but this is an average. Many top schools charge far more – for example, Brighton College charges more than £19,000 a term for UK sixth form boarders. In effect, this would mean spending somewhere between £350,000 and £700,000 on independent schooling through nursery, prep and senior school – for one child. Unsurprisingly, a significant minority of families are now considering independent school for a limited time. For example, applications to sixth forms have remained strong despite fee increases, as parents choose to make financial sacrifices for two years. As more families mixand-match state and independent, the question becomes what age to prioritise. Many parents might consider it sensible to focus on senior and sixth, particularly as this covers off public exam years. They may also believe that home environment and family support can have a bigger influence on children when they are younger, but as they become teenagers their peer group matters more. It would be an oversimplification to assume that independent education in the earlier years (to Year 6 or Year 8) is a luxury, with the greatest value added at senior level. For example, if you live in the catchment area of an academically

Prep schools typically have smaller class sizes and more specialist teaching rigorous senior grammar but a poorperforming primary, then the opposite may well be true. Local situation plays a key part in such decisions, but there are also more general reasons why independent education through the formative prep years delivers long-term value. EXPANDING HORIZONS Prep schools typically have smaller class sizes, more specialist teaching, excellent facilities, high expectations for academic achievement and behaviour, varied extracurricular activities and outstanding pastoral care – including before and after school hours. Prep settings are important – they are often idyllic. For example, Sunningdale School, near Ascot, is set within 25 acres of woodland and playing fields, and boys can go fishing, mountain biking, climbing and camping. More rural still, at Pinewood School in Wiltshire, there are 84 acres and pupils can ride and go clay-pigeon shooting. Preps provide both breadth and depth of experience. Annie Gent, Head of Sherborne

Prep in Dorset, notes that senior school Heads, “really value the children who come on to them from us – their willingness to get involved in school life, their excellent education grounding across all subjects, and their quiet confidence, sense of community and maturity”. At Sherborne Prep, pupils are offered more than 130 different enrichment opportunities each term. Children play sport every day of the week (by contrast, state primary schools may offer as little as one lesson of PE a week), and every day pupils have a co-curricular lesson – whether that be Art, DT, Music, Drama or project work. STRETCH AND SUPPORT State primary schools can work well for confident independent learners who find the three Rs (Reading, Writing and Arithmetic) relatively straightforward. At the other end of the scale, those with severe learning difficulties (critically, children with an Education, Health and Care Plan – EHCP) get one-to-one help for free, and so can also be well-supported. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

VALUE OF PREP EDUCATION.indd 83

8/26/26 12:06 PM

EDUCATION • PREP

However, an independent prep can really come into its own for both all-rounders and those who sit in the ‘middle’ of the academic spectrum. In a typical cashstrapped primary, it is easy for ‘middling’ or quieter children to be overlooked. An overstretched primary school teacher, trying to instruct a mixed-ability class of 30 with a range of educational and behavioural needs, may simply not be able to adequately support or stretch those students who are not obvious over- or under-achievers. THE 'PREPARATION' FACTOR By design, an independent prep school can help your child get a place at a top secondary school. Most parents are already aware that prep schools are excellent at readying students for the demanding entrance tests to academically selective independent schools, but they can also give students the best possible chance of moving on to a non-fee-paying selective school. For example, Gayhurst Prep in Buckinghamshire sees about 40% of its leavers head to one of the popular local grammars, while Holmwood House in Essex loses half its pupils after Year 6 to Colchester Royal Grammar and Colchester County High. Preps such as these help to prepare students for the rigours of the 11+ exam and senior life, but in a way that is less pressured than the Standard Assessment Tests (SATS) of state primaries, which are invariably much more about teaching to the test.

EXTENDED CHILDHOOD A critical benefit of the classic prep school – educating children from 7 to 13 – is that it gives children an opportunity to stay in primary education for longer. Those extra two years allow time to mature and enjoy a more carefree school existence for longer. Once children are in secondary school, immersed in the world of adolescence and surrounded by much older pupils, some innocence and confidence can be lost. Christine Cook, Head of Kitebrook School in the Cotswolds, points out that Years 7 and 8 in a prep school are valuable for offering plenty of leadership opportunities. “Students here have lots of chances to be role models to the younger pupils – for example, being a prefect – and can also excel in lots of areas, such as being a Scholar in an academic subject,” she says. “As well as helping to extend their childhood and hold off the pressures of teenage life for a little longer, it can really build up their confidence. For some students, moving to secondary school at Year 7 can make them feel like a very small fish in a very big pond, and force them to grow up very quickly.” It’s also worth noting that teachers at independent prep schools are specialists, both in terms of subject and age group. At secondary school, teachers are often incredibly busy prioritising A level or GCSE classes, or spending time writing references or assisting with university personal

statements, and so Year 7 and 8 classes can sometimes be a bit of an afterthought. At prep schools offering places up to 13, these year groups are the top of the school. In many respects, they are the priority. Despite prep schools’ many attributes, this may not be the right route for every child. Ultimately, it comes down to family circumstances, local options and your child’s interests, strengths and personality. There are opportunities outside school that help to add breadth and depth. In particular, working with a tutor can be invaluable for parents considering the independent school route for senior years, but nervous about the academic leap required. Tutoring represents an accessible investment to help ensure that, wherever your child spends their senior years, they can thrive. Nathaniel McCullagh is founder and director of Simply Learning Tuition. Find out more at simplylearningtuition.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

VALUE OF PREP EDUCATION.indd 84

8/26/26 12:06 PM

AD THE GRANGE SCHOOL.indd 85

8/26/26 12:07 PM

PHOTO: SOPHIE DAVIDSON

CLARE POLLARD

E P I C

A DV E N T U R E While Jason and the Argonauts is not famous for laughs, Clare Pollard has delivered a funny and gripping take on the myth to delight middle-grade readers 86

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CLARE POLLACK.indd 86

8/26/26 12:07 PM

EDUCATION • BOOKS

ow do you solve a problem like Medea? It’s one of the reasons Clare Pollard believes Jason and the Argonauts is a story that hasn’t been retold for a young audience in a while. But it’s a challenge she decided to take on, in part because it began her lifelong fascination with the myths and legends of Ancient Greece. “I think for me the starting point was seeing the movie of Jason and the Argonauts when I was a kid, which is why the story means so much to me. I absolutely adored it.” The result is The Othernauts, with adventure, characters to love and – it has to be said – a slew of epic jokes about the weirder aspects of the tale and the lives it describes. The time felt right because Clare has her own children as inspiration: “I’ve got children who are nine and 12 so middle grade is right in the zone.” And there is, she admits, a little bit of their sibling dynamic in central characters Phoebe and (plot spoiler) her twin brother Perry. This is an author who has worked across genres and age groups – from The Weather, a play that premiered at the Royal Court, to poetry, adult fiction and non-fiction, plus a new translation of Ovid’s Heroines that she toured as a one-woman show. “I’ve always loved writing everything, really,” she smiles. Her book Fierce Bad Rabbits was an exploration of the sometimes dark and sinister elements of children’s stories. “I take children’s literature very seriously,” she says. “I think we should all take children’s literature seriously and think about what stories we’re telling them. These books completely shape our imagination and often shape our moral code, our sense of what’s

possible in the world.” Now with two children of her own, she’s believes the biggest mistake a writer can make is to underestimate the audience. “Your storytelling needs to be just as good, your descriptions just as evocative, your characters just as rounded, your jokes just as witty.” In The Othernauts, there’s no dumbing down in the language, and she shows the

same respect for the wit of a child audience as an adult one, albeit with some thought about the grislier bits of Greek myths. “There is dark material in them that you have got to handle quite carefully. But I just love the idea that I’m telling a story to children that is a version of the same story told to children thousands of years ago. I find that just incredible,” she says. “I really love reinterpreting these myths and trying to make them relevant now.” Medea, that problem character, is handled rather beautifully. “I had quite good fun turning her into a Goth teenage witch,” she laughs. From her first stomping and slamming entrance, because she’s taken a night off from the shrine (where she spends her time making potions and sun-drying shrews’ hearts), she’s riveting and ghastly in equal measure. As Phoebe puts it: ‘I thought she’d be cooler than this’. The seriously cool character in The Othernauts is Phoebe, who is also incredibly funny. What’s not to love about a heroine who starts out telling us how deeply bored she is, with only a wicked stepmother and poisonous flowers for company on the dust-smothered and man-free island A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CLARE POLLACK.indd 87

8/26/26 12:07 PM

EDUCATION • BOOKS

CHILDREN START GIVING ME A BLOWBY-BLOW ACCOUNT OF THE ODYSSEY of Lemnos. She certainly doesn’t want to be a boy – having been educated in man hating since she was small – but she wouldn’t mind a change of scene. “I really wanted Phoebe to be that cynical, sarcastic character,” says Clare. Here, she admits she was influenced by her own children and the way they crack jokes – part of the shared language of home. “We all really love that deadpan humour,” she laughs. She believes jokes are a hook for this age group, as long as they are actually funny, but she had the perfect judging panel of two. “Children are a particularly good audience to test jokes on. A joke will fall absolutely flat – it’s humbling,” she says. There’s no doubt that audiences – boys and girls – are going to enjoy the polished humour in a story that treats a dark myth with lightness. Clare thinks the Greek myths endure because they have a plot that’s for everyone. “What’s so appealing about Greek myths – and the same is true of fairytales and a lot of these traditional tales – is that they weren’t aimed at children. There

wasn’t such a thing as childhood in those days. It was literature for everybody.” She’s looking forward to taking The Othernauts into schools – where she already does a lot of work with The Poetry Society – because she knows there’s a keen audience. “The couple of workshops I’ve done so far, it’s been hard to get a word in edgeways because children start giving me blow-byblow accounts of The Odyssey – they get geeky about it!” She’d like the workshops to cover something else the Greek myths gave us. “I think the Greeks invented the shapes of stories – the stories that we still tell now,” she says. “One of the things I’m going to be asking is, how does a story work?”

The good news for readers who get behind Phoebe and Perry is that they ride o! into the sunset in search of another adventure. The second book is well into production – no plot spoilers but expect monsters, a fiendish female and other typical hazards of ancient times. Clare is delighted because these are two characters she isn’t ready to let go of quite yet. “I’m fond of Phoebe and Perry. It’s really nice to take them forward into another story and see them grow up a bit.” The Othernauts, written by Clare Pollard and illustrated by Macha Yao, is out now (£7.99, Piccadilly Press)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CLARE POLLACK.indd 88

8/26/26 12:07 PM

AD ABBEY GATE COLLEGE.indd 89

8/26/26 12:07 PM

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

Secrets of

STATESIDE

SUCCESS Dr Jamie Beaton, CEO of Crimson Education, gives insider perspectives for students looking to study at a US university 90

Q What trends has Crimson Education noticed in students' choice of subject areas? A Right now, the most dominant majors are AI, Business, Pre-Med, Pre-Law, Economics, and Entrepreneurship. This is because of the rise of AI – a lot of people want to learn AI, machine learning and MathTyperelated skills. Also, a lot more students want to go on to direct entrepreneurship. On the whole, students are return-oninvestment focused – choosing majors they think will give them good job outcomes. Probably the most notable trend is that Environmental Science is less common than it was five or ten years ago. Also, Computer Science directly is less popular than five years ago, partly because of the availability of AI tools. More students are looking at pure engineering subjects such as Electronic Engineering or Applied Maths. I’d add that some of the smartest students I see are typically doing Applied Maths, Data Science, Statistics, Economics, or AI if they have a STEM background. They tend to be the majors that lead to some of the highest-paying jobs.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

STUDY IN AMERICA.indd 90

8/26/26 12:08 PM

• US• XXXXX EDUCATION XXXXXXXX STUDY

NYU STANFORD UNIVERSITY

humanities pathway, such as Sociology, all the way to Astrophysics, to show their technical domain knowledge and academic curiosity. Beyond that, I would say there’s a rotation back to standardised testing in a big way. Universities like Princeton found out that the students who didn’t take the SAT performed worse, so there’s a snap back. I would say there’s definitely a renewed focus on academic excellence. Q From Crimson's experience, what are the

features common to successful applications?

A Last year, the average student applying

DUKE UNIVERSITY

Q How about destinations – both

consistently favoured, and up-and-comers? A The up-and-comers are Vanderbilt, University of Michigan, Duke and UChicago, in my opinion. Vanderbilt, for example, wasn’t considered that selective 30 years ago – it had an admissions rate of 60%. Now the admissions rate is down to sub 3% for the regular admissions round. Vanderbilt is now opening campuses in West Palm Beach, California, and has become very popular because it’s viewed as a bastion of independent thought, which fosters that free speech culture, and it gives you that quintessential US college experience. Another up-and-coming school I’d note would be The American University in Washington DC. Dave Marchick, who has taken over the Business School there, has been really pushing to build the school’s success in AI, entrepreneurship, and sustainability – with some success. As far as the most popular schools, Harvard is the most popular overall, followed

by Stanford at number two. Stanford is in a dramatic rise because of its exposure to Silicon Valley and entrepreneurship. The other school that’s really thriving is NYU. Its location, right in the middle of Manhattan, is very attractive to both American and international students. Q Do you see any shifts in students'

approach when it comes to building compelling applications? A There have been some major shifts. The first thing is that AI tools enable students to crank out capstone projects, apps, and other initiatives that would once have taken them six months in three weeks. The top students who are really entrepreneurial can do more with their time, which means the standard of competition at the high end is going up. The second thing is that research is becoming very mainstream. Schools like Yale and Columbia now require research papers on the application (it’s 'optional', but optional means compulsory). These research papers enable students of anything from a

to America had all As and A*s, two to three leadership projects, typically one to two research papers, plus five honours that we’ve trained them for, often at regional or international level. Now, for a British applicant, this might involve taking extra A-level subjects. On top of this, a lot of successful students will have very differentiated application essays. A lot of the best essays are quite wacky. A student of mine who got into Yale and Stanford wrote his essay about his love of heavy metal rock music. Q What are your top tips for students

aiming for standout appeal to admissions officers at top-tier universities? A First nail the basics – crush your academics – starting as early as you can. Secondly, opt for standardised testing. Even though schools are test-optional, don’t listen to that. Train hard on the ACT/SAT and get a high score. My average student who went to Harvard or Stanford last year scored 1560. My average Ivy League student scored 1540. Next up would be getting extra honours. You’ve got to compete in a range of online competitions and other activities early on and work up to winning awards. And thirdly, top schools like Stanford are trying to find student entrepreneurs – the kind that launch initiatives when they’re still in high school. crimsoneducation.org/uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

STUDY IN AMERICA.indd 91

8/26/26 12:08 PM

AD RYDAL PENRHOS SCHOOL.indd 92

8/26/26 12:08 PM

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

A b o v e

BEYOND

The King’s School Chester: exceptional education, excellent value

hoosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions that parents will ever make and if you’re thinking of going down the independent school route, you’ll want to be sure that you are getting good value for money. At a time when costs are rising for all households, The King’s School Chester is delighted to have been recognised by The Telegraph as offering “very good” value for money, the highest category in its 2026 guide to private schools. But what does very good value for money look like? At The King’s School Chester, it is about the quality of education, the range of opportunities offered to every child at every stage of school life and, ultimately, the outcomes they achieve. The Telegraph’s analysis takes all of these aspects into account, comparing the fees charged with academic performance and the facilities on offer at the school. The useful tool even compares outcomes with local state schools so that parents can be sure that they are making a sound investment. The King’s School celebrates outstanding academic results every year and its students progress to some of the UK’s most competitive universities and courses. These outcomes are supported by an environment that is designed to help pupils flourish at every stage of their

education. Set within 33 acres of grounds, facilities on the school campus include a £4.5 million Sports Centre, swimming pool, professional theatre, a music school and exceptional art and DT studios. However, value cannot be measured in grades and facilities alone. A King’s education is about giving children the confidence to discover their strengths, pursue their interests and develop the skills they need for life beyond school. A rich extracurricular programme and outstanding pastoral care complement the academic curriculum

to help every young person shape a future that is uniquely their own. The new Head of The King’s School Chester, Luke Rogers, welcomed the recognition from The Telegraph. “For families considering independent schools, this report provides welcome reassurance that choosing The King’s School Chester represents a strong investment in their child’s future,” he says. “I recognise that it is a significant decision for families to invest in a King’s education and I look forward to working in partnership with parents to ensure that their child benefits from every opportunity available at King’s.” Discover what a King’s education could offer your child at one of the upcoming Open Days where prospective families can meet pupils and staff, see the facilities and experience the welcoming community first-hand. Your child’s future starts with one visit. Sixth Form Open Day – Saturday 19 September Senior School Open Day – Saturday 26 September Infant and Junior School Open Day – Saturday 10 October Find out more at kingschester.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

KINGS SCHOOL.indd 93

8/26/26 12:09 PM

AD ST DAVIDS COLLEGE.indd 94

8/26/26 12:09 PM

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

“Aboremp orerisque et labor solo volorehenda eiunt, odiam fuga. quam eum volut”

Building

character Values-led education praised by ISI at a leading independent school in Lancashire

ounded in 1593, Stonyhurst is a leading day and boarding school and the world’s oldest continuously operating Jesuit school. Set within a spectacular 1,000-acre estate in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, it has spent more than 430 years educating young people through a philosophy that values character as highly as academic achievement. A commitment to educating the whole person lies at the heart of Stonyhurst’s mission. Guided by the Jesuit principle of cura personalis – care for the whole person – pupils are encouraged to develop intellectually, socially, spiritually and emotionally. Head of Stonyhurst, William Doherty, believes this holistic approach is more relevant than ever. “A Jesuit education is not one dimensional – too often schools are focused on academic achievement, but a Jesuit education focuses on the whole person,” he says. “It is about putting morality, spirituality, wellbeing, reflection

and service at the core of education.” This enduring philosophy begins in the Prep School, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, where curiosity is nurtured through a broad and engaging curriculum, and continues through to Sixth Form, where pupils benefit from increasing opportunities for leadership, independence and personal responsibility. This approach was recently recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), which confirmed that Stonyhurst met all Independent School Standards and awarded the school the rare distinction of a Significant Strength for its co-curricular programme. Inspectors concluded that “the cocurricular programme promotes pupils’ wellbeing particularly effectively, and is a significant strength of the school”. From leadership and service to sport, music, drama and outdoor education, pupils are encouraged to discover their strengths beyond the classroom while developing confidence, resilience and compassion. For William, the inspection affirms a vision that has guided Jesuit education for centuries. “Again, this is about educating the whole person,” he explains. “Pupils grow and develop because of the co-curricular programme – it makes an impact on their formation.” The school’s boarding provision was also praised, with inspectors describing boarding as “a vibrant, diverse and inclusive community where pupils learn

the value of living together in harmony”. William sees the combination of day and boarding pupils as one of Stonyhurst’s great strengths: “From a boarding point of view, we recognise that it often represents a great sacrifice on behalf of parents as it is all about letting go – preparing your children to fly from the nest with confidence.” Whether day pupils or boarders, every pupil benefits from a strong culture of care and support throughout their educational journey. Inspectors praised the school for its “embedded culture of safeguarding” and recognised the strong whole-school approach to pupil welfare promoted by leaders. Looking ahead, William’s ambition is clear: “Our aim is to cultivate outstanding team players who have a global perspective. A Jesuit education encourages discernment and gratitude – understanding what gives you joy and being appreciative of it.”

Find out more at an Open Day – scan the QR code for more A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

STONYHURST.indd 95

8/26/26 12:09 PM

Every Opportunity. Endless Possibilities.

Your child’s future starts with one visit Register today to book your place at a King’s School Chester Open Day: Sixth Form Saturday, 19 September 2026 Senior School Saturday, 26 September 2026 Infant and Junior School Saturday, 10 October 2026

Every opportunity. Endless possibilities.

AD THE KING S SCHOOL CHESTER.indd 96

8/26/26 12:09 PM

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

confidence, character and practical skills to succeed in an ever-changing world. Q How do you ensure every pupil

meet the

HEAD

Absolutely sits down with Tom Hutchinson, Principal of Rydal Penrhos School Q How would you describe the ethos and

values that underpin everything you do? A At Rydal Penrhos, everything we do is rooted in our enduring belief that education is about developing the whole person. Our guiding principle, inspired by John Wesley’s words, is to "Do all the good you can", and this shapes our expectations of kindness, integrity, service and ambition. We want every child to feel known, valued and challenged to become the very best version of themselves. In the modern world academic success is important, but so too are character, compassion and resilience. We believe that young people flourish when they are encouraged to serve others, embrace opportunities and develop confidence in their own abilities. Ours is a community where strong relationships, high expectations and genuine care create an environment in which every pupil can thrive. We strive to create interesting young people who will be amazing world changing and community creating adults.

Q How is the school preparing pupils

not only for academic success, but also for life beyond the classroom? A Preparing young people for the future means looking beyond examinations alone. Alongside a strong academic curriculum, we place significant emphasis on developing the skills employers and universities increasingly value: communication, adaptability, leadership, creativity and critical thinking. Pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities including sport, music, performing arts, outdoor education, enterprise and community service. We are also embracing new technologies, including artificial intelligence and digital literacy, ensuring pupils learn to use them responsibly, morally and effectively. Careers education begins early and is strengthened through employer partnerships, work experience and guidance tailored to each individual. Our aim is that every pupil leaves Rydal Penrhos not only with excellent qualifications but with the

feels supported, valued and able to reach their full potential? A Outstanding pastoral care is one of the defining strengths of Rydal Penrhos. We recognise that every child is different, and we work hard to ensure every pupil is known as an individual rather than simply a name on a register. Strong relationships between staff, pupils and families allow us to provide support that is both proactive and personalised. Dedicated pastoral leaders, tutors and our wellbeing team work closely together to help pupils navigate challenges, celebrate successes and build resilience. We also place great importance on creating a culture where kindness, respect and inclusion are recognised and celebrated every day. When children feel safe, valued and understood, they develop the confidence to take risks, embrace opportunities and fulfil their potential both inside and outside the classroom. Q If you could share one message with

prospective families considering your school, what would you like them to know? A I would encourage families to visit us and experience the school for themselves, because it is the warmth of our community that truly sets Rydal Penrhos apart. We are ambitious for every child, but our ambition is always balanced with care, encouragement and a genuine understanding that each pupil’s journey is unique. Whether a child excels academically, creatively, musically, on the sports field or simply needs the confidence to discover their strengths, they will find opportunities to flourish here. Our focus is on helping each child to find their best, rather than simply telling them to be their best. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family makes in my eyes, and our commitment is simple: to know every child, believe in every child and help every child become the very best version of themselves. rydalpenrhos.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RYDAL PENHROS.indd 97

8/26/26 12:09 PM

LAST WORD • PLACE

why everyone is talking about…

T H E Q U E E N AT Chester Hotel

Combining more than 165 years of heritage with the distinctive character and personal touches that define Handwritten Collection, the hotel offers an authentic gateway to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. The opening marks another significant milestone in the continued expansion of Handwritten Collection, further strengthening a portfolio of distinctive hotels that celebrate individuality, local character and authentic hospitality. Now present in 20 countries, with 50+ hotels open and more than 50 additional hotels in development, Handwritten Collection is designed for travellers seeking memorable experiences and unique stories. First opened in 1860 as a grand hotel for first-class rail travellers, the property has long been regarded as one of Chester’s most iconic landmarks and has welcomed notable guests including Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry throughout its history. Today, as part of Handwritten Collection, the hotel celebrates that rich heritage through thoughtfully preserved architecture, warm hospitality and meaningful touches that connect guests with its unique past. Bookings can be made at all.accor.com

A new luxury hotspot has opened in Cheshire's historic city

andwritten Collection, a characterful collection of bespoke hotels by Accor, has announced the opening of The Queen at Chester Hotel – Handwritten Collection, marking the brand’s first address in the UK. Bringing one of the city’s most iconic landmarks into its fast-growing portfolio, the opening builds on Handwritten Collection’s continued global momentum, following the recent milestone of opening 50 hotels worldwide. Guests can enjoy 218 beautifully appointed bedrooms, including spacious family rooms and elegant suites. Alongside dining

options such as The King’s Grill and the V&A Restaurant, where seasonal dishes are crafted using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners can also relax in the V&A Lounge Bar, offering quintessentially British afternoon tea and crafted cocktails or head to the V&A Terrace, where a specially curated menu provides the perfect setting for al fresco dining. Ideally positioned just moments from Chester’s historic city centre, The Queen at Chester Hotel – Handwritten Collection places guests at the heart of one of the UK’s most captivating destinations, renowned for its unique Chester Rows, magnificent historical Cathedral, ancient Roman walls, and Britain’s largest Roman amphitheatre.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EVERYONE TALKING.indd 98

8/26/26 12:09 PM

IBC - AD O HARES.indd 99

8/26/26 12:09 PM

OBC - FILLER KIMBLE RODEN.indd 100

8/26/26 12:09 PM