Issuu

ESSEX

Essex

SEPTEMBER 2026 / £3.95

SEPTEMBER 2026

SPECIA L News and views from the county's best schools

Seasonal

SHIFT ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES.COM COVER WITH SPINE.indd All Pages

BE READY FOR AUTUMN THANKS TO THE LATEST COLLECTIONS FROM POETRY PLUS

GAIL DAVIS How Essex helped shape the career of the Sky Sports presenter WATER WORLD Enjoying Maldon, from maritime heritage to dining with a view REAP THE REWARDS 10 of the best restaurants to make the most of harvest season

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT 25/08/26 07:59

AD JENSEN BEDS.indd 2

25/08/26 08:00

The Thesleep sleepthat that makes makesyour yourday. day. WeWe believe believe youyou should should never never be be held held back back because because youyou areare tired. tired. That’s That’s whywhy wewe have have devoted devoted 75 75 years years to perfecting to perfecting thethe sleep sleep thatthat sharpens sharpens your your mind mind andand strengthens strengthens your your body. body. OurOur beds beds areare built built in Norway in Norway using using passion, passion, tradition tradition andand innovation innovation to make to make thethe most most of your of your sleep. sleep. So So youyou cancan make make thethe most most of your of your day.day.

Welcome Welcometotoour ourLondon Londonshowroom! showroom! Experience Experience Jensen Jensen sleep sleep quality quality at our at our showroom showroom in Chelsea in Chelsea Harbour. Harbour. At At jensen-beds.com/uk jensen-beds.com/uk youyou can can joinjoin ourour mailing mailing listlist and and getget advance advance

access access to Sleep to Sleep Talks Talks where where wewe help help youyou improve improve your your sleep sleep health. health.

AD JENSEN BEDS.indd 3

25/08/26 08:00

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

AD FRENCH FURNITURE FITTERS.indd 4

25/08/26 08:00

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

AD FRENCH FURNITURE FITTERS.indd 5

25/08/26 08:00

AD CUSTOM GARDEN ROOMS.indd 6

25/08/26 08:00

ABSOLUTELY

Contents SEPTEMBER 2026

CULTURE

FASHION

EDUCATION

14 Agenda Model magic and cutting

36 The Shoot POETRY in

66 Prep Schools Exploring

comedy lead this month's diary

motion for autumn

their value to families

16 Gail Davis The Essex influence

39 Jewellery Nine of the best necklaces available to buy now

71 America How to earn

on the Sky Sports presenter

20 Maldon How to spend

INTERIORS

a day by the water

48 Farrow & Ball How their Colour

FOOD & DRINK

Consultancy will change your outlook

30 10 Of The Best Spots to make

52 House of Lexden Meeting

the most of harvest season

the founder, Michaela Clarke

33 Copas Traditional Turkeys

54 Jensen Beds Sleep

Why Christmas starts now

comfort made in Norway

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07861 994764 or email: claire@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 @ABSOLUTELYESSEX Twitter @ABSOLUTELYESSEX Instagram @ABSOLUTELYESSEX absolutelymagazines.com

your place overseas

75 Clare Pollard Reimagining Jason and the Argonauts

91 News The latest from schools across the county O N T H E C OV E R POETRY AW26 (poetryfashion.co.uk)

editor MARK KEBBLE • art director PAWEL KUBA • magazine designers MARIANA SUZUKI, ARTHUR JONAS • production manager DANICA BRODIE • group sales manager - south ABIGAIL GARDNER • media consultant LOUISE PEARSON, SARAH BAKER • credit control manager ALEXANDRA HVID • directors CRAIG DAVIES, JAMES FUSCHILLO • 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 7

25/08/26 08:00

AD MILLFIELD THEATRE.indd 8

25/08/26 10:59

Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S September issue highlights

n the past couple of years I have gone back to school. Not literally – my exam results were not that bad – but I have taken my love of football and fitness a step further by taking coaching modules and embracing the learning opportunities on offer via the FA (who, at times, get a bad rep, but I think they do a sterling job supporting aspiring coaches). It has got me thinking, too, about what I studied 30 odd years ago now. It baffles me, given my interest in the human body today, that I hated all the sciences and couldn't wait to see them off post-GCSEs. I love my career, but I do think biology should have been something I pursued for A Levels, rather than the absolutely tedious economic & social history I struggled with for two years. I was even considering history for my degree until I didn't get the grades I needed for that, took a year out, and then realised my journalistic calling. I also generally hated being at school – friends were great, lessons were not. But as I have got older, I have grown to appreciate the amazing job my teachers did, which is why when our education special comes around I always enjoy it immensely, especially visiting some of our top local schools. The world is very different now compared to when I was in uniform, but the younger generation are in good hands.

5 House of Lexden

We meet the founder of the Essex business (p52)

4 Wishlist

What is catching our eye this month (p10)

Gail Davis

The Sky Sports presenter on her Essex upbringing (p16)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

23 Maldon

Exploring the many joys by the water (p20)

EDS LETTER.indd 9

10 Of The Best

Essex venues to make the most of harvest season (p30)

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

25/08/26 08:01

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 10

25/08/26 08:01

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 11

25/08/26 08:01

AD HERITGE LIGHTING.indd 12

25/08/26 08:02

C U LT U R E

The Anglia Comedy Allstars 19 SEPTEMBER, PRINCES THEATRE

The Anglia Comedy Allstars show returns to Princes Theatre, with a huge line-up featuring the hilarious Chris McCausland, Geoff Norcott, Laura Smyth (pictured) and Josh James. From a Strictly star to the Essex Comedian of the Year, this is one night not to miss.

princestheatre.co.uk

Agenda 14 • Gail Davis 16 • Maldon 20 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CULTURE OPENER.indd 13

25/08/26 08:02

The Agenda

SEPTEMBER'S HOTTEST HAPPENINGS

CO M E DY

Lucy Porter

PHOTO: MARTIN JOHNSON

PHOTO: CHARLIE CLIFT

11-12 September C H E L M S F O R D T H E AT R E Lucy Porter is back on the road with her 18th solo show, Let Yourself Go – an hour of stand-up exploring what it means to age, evolve, and loosen your grip on everything from self-image to social expectations. In this new show, she reﬂects on the strange freedom of midlife – from the reality of botox regrets and menopausal rage to her newfound love of slankets, garden centres, and doing the register at the start of each show. chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

EV E N T

T H E AT R E

Large Model Air Show

That’ll Be The Day

1 2 S E PTE MB E R , STOW MA R I E S GR E AT WAR AERODROME

The Large Model Air Show returns to Stow Maries by popular demand. This is a great chance to see remote controlled aircraft going through their paces – some as big as cars – in a full day of ﬂying action. This will be followed a week later, on 19th September, by Words Without Wires, a day of living history focusing on the history of military communications. stowmaries.org.uk

17 September T O W N G AT E T H E AT R E That’ll Be The Day is a unique feelgood experience that is bursting with electrifying performances, laugh-out-loud comedy sketches and chart-topping favourites. The show brings decades of music to life in a vibrant blend of rock ‘n’ roll, pop and nostalgia, and features hits that span from the 50s through to the 80s. towngatetheatre.co.uk

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

AGENDA.indd 14

25/08/26 08:22

CULTURE • AGENDA

EYE-OPENING

walk

How The Line is redefining family entertainment this season EV E N T

26-27 September CRESSING TEMPLE BARNS Cressing Temple Barns again plays host to this county-centric fair. Exhibitors will include arts and crafts, fashion and beauty, food and drink, gifts and household accessories, outdoor and garden goodies, as well as the unique and uncategorisable. charlieowenevents.co.uk

CO M E DY

Georgie Carroll 22 September C L I F F S PAV I L I O N Georgie Carroll is back with her brand-new show, Infectious. An undeniable live comedy powerhouse and a natural storyteller, she’s razor sharp and riotous. The nurse turned comedian is not only brilliantly funny, she is unstoppable on the comedy circuit having performed her smash hit award winning show Sista Flo 2.0 for three solid years of sold out seasons – so don’t miss her brand new show. trafalgartickets.com

This Month’s Must See

MU S I C

Tribute to Hans Zimmer

9 S E PTEMBER, CHELMSFORD CATHEDRAL

helmsford Cathedral will be hosting an immersive tribute to Hans Zimmer and cinema's most iconic music with a live chamber orchestra illuminated by light. The event will feature cinema's most iconic music, beautifully performed by a live chamber orchestra, including legendary music from soundtracks for Dune, Gladiator, Inception, Interstellar, Jaws, Man of Steel and many, many more. chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk

PHOTO: ADA IHEBOM

Craft & Shopping Fair

he Line, a free outdoor art trail in east London, is inviting Essex locals to head into town and enjoy a walk along waterways, encountering wildlife, nature, heritage and world-class public art. The Line's year-round evolving programme encapsulates the growing body of evidence that spending time outdoors, being close to water, and engaging with art and culture can all have a positive impact on wellbeing. Research from Mind and Natural England highlights the mental health benefits of spending time in nature, while additional studies suggest that experiencing art and being near water can further enhance these effects. The Line encourages people to enjoy these wellbeing benefits firsthand. The route of The Line passes art installations by some of Britain's most celebrated artists with current installations – including Rasheed Araeen, Abigail Fallis, Madge Gill and Gary Hume – located along the River Lea and across the Thames at North Greenwich via the IFS Cloud cable car. The Line is suited to all ages, making it ideal for something a little different to do. The route starts / finishes at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, close to Hackney Wick and Fish Island, all of which offer a multitude of spots to stop for a drink or something to eat before or after. Those starting or finishing at the North Greenwich end will find cafés in and around The O2 and the Design District. One of the joys of The Line is that it is constantly changing – different seasons, times of day and tides mean it’s always worth a return visit. the-line.org

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

AGENDA.indd 15

25/08/26 08:22

GAIL PRESENTING ON SKY SPORTS

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

GAIL DAVIS.indd 16

25/08/26 08:22

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

GAME

Changer From Essex school sports to the world's biggest sporting stages, Gail Davis reﬂects on resilience, recovery and rediscovering her love of movement

ky Sports presenter Gail Davis has spent her career telling the stories behind some of the world’s greatest sporting moments. From the touchline at Premier League matches to Rugby World Cups, Wimbledon and the unforgettable London 2012 Olympics, she has become one of Britain’s most respected broadcasters. Behind the polished live broadcasts lies a story that began much closer to home, growing up in Essex, where a love of competition, teamwork and resilience first took root. Looking back, Gail credits those early years with giving her many of the qualities that would define both her career and her outlook on life. “I owe Essex a lot,” she smiles. “It was home for the first 18 or so years of my life. It’s where I grew up surrounded by family and friends, discovered my love of sport, developed my competitive streak and built my resilience.” Like many children, weekends revolved around fixtures, training sessions and time outdoors. Netball for the borough, hockey matches reached by school bus, tennis at the local club and endless cricket and rounders in the garden created the foundations of a lifelong passion. Those experiences, she believes, taught lessons that would prove invaluable long after schooldays were over. “Those years taught me so much about resilience, discipline and the value of hard work,” she explains. “When I later found myself as one of the

few women working in sports broadcasting, those qualities became invaluable.” Although work and family mean visits home are less frequent these days, Essex remains an important part of her life. Returning to Chigwell recently to help open a new padel club felt, she says, like a full-circle moment. Better still, her mother was once again watching from the sidelines, just as she had done throughout Gail’s childhood sporting adventures. “Some things never change,” she laughs. That competitive spirit eventually led Gail into one of television’s most demanding professions. Breaking into sports broadcasting more than two decades ago wasn’t easy, particularly at a time when female presenters were still something of a rarity. Rather than allowing that to become a barrier, she focused on meticulous preparation and journalistic credibility.

“I knew what I wanted to be – a respected journalist who knew the subject, understood the stories and could perform under pressure,” she says. “Preparation gave me confidence.” While she is delighted to see far more women thriving across sports media today, she believes there is still progress to be made. Nevertheless, she is encouraged that today’s generation has opportunities and role models that simply didn’t exist when she first entered the industry. Asked to single out a defining sporting memory, there is no hesitation: London 2012. “The atmosphere was unlike anything I’ve experienced before or since,” she recalls. “The whole country seemed to come together.” Interviewing Olympic medallists and sharing their stories during a home Games remains one of the greatest privileges of her career. “Those are the moments you simply can’t script.”

INTERVIEWING ARSENAL MANAGER, MIKEL ARTETA

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

GAIL DAVIS.indd 17

25/08/26 08:22

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

“When I am on the padel court, the noise of everyday life disappears for a couple of hours” These days, while she continues to cover elite sport, Gail has discovered a new personal sporting obsession. Padel has become far more than a hobby; it has reignited the competitive spark she enjoyed growing up in Essex. “It has given me back that feeling of competing, improving and being part of a sporting community,” she explains. Alongside fellow Sky Sports presenter Jo Wilson, the pair have built a loyal following through their Padel Smash Girls platform, encouraging more women to try one of Britain’s fastest-growing sports. For Gail, its appeal extends beyond the game itself. “When I’m on the padel court, I have to be completely present,” she says. “The noise of everyday life disappears for a couple of hours.” That combination of competition, community and mental escape has become an increasingly valuable part of her busy life. Exercise, she says, has always been her “reset button”. Whether training for marathons, playing hockey or simply finding time to stay active around a demanding television schedule and family life, movement has remained constant. That is precisely why being diagnosed with early knee osteoarthritis proved so devastating. Her knee problems stretched back much further than many realised. Years of impact through childhood sport, followed by a serious ACL injury and cartilage damage during a netball match, eventually caught up with her. Despite surgery in her 20s, she continued playing sport, running and lifting weights well into pregnancy. When the diagnosis finally came, it felt like losing part of her identity. “I was told that, eventually, I would likely need a knee replacement,” she says. “I felt absolutely gutted. Sport had been a constant throughout my life – it had given me my career, my friendships, my confidence and my escape. The thought that it might be taken away was incredibly difficult to process.” Hope arrived through consultant Dr George Bownes at Citius Health, who recommended Arthrosamid®, a minimally invasive, single hydrogel injection designed to help reduce pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. Having already experienced several operations,

THE PADEL SMASH GIRLS

Gail welcomed the opportunity to try a different approach. “I had the injection in September 2025 and I honestly haven’t looked back,” she says. “The recovery was very straightforward... I was back on the padel court within two weeks.” Nearly a year later, she says the improvement has transformed everyday life. “I’m not experiencing soreness in my knee. I feel more mobile when I’m exercising and, most importantly, I’m no longer constantly thinking about my knee. I can focus on enjoying being active again, and that has been incredibly liberating.” The experience has also changed how she approaches fitness. Strength and conditioning now play a far bigger role than ever before, while Reformer Pilates has become, in her words, “non-negotiable”. Gail also hopes speaking openly about her experience encourages more women to seek help rather than simply accepting persistent pain. “I think women have traditionally become very good at putting everyone else’s needs before their own,” she says. “My advice would simply be to start the conversation. Speak to a healthcare professional, understand what options are available and don’t assume that pain is just something you have to accept.” For her, staying active is about far more than fitness. “It’s about confidence, independence, mental wellbeing and being able to keep doing the things you love.”

Balancing international sporting events, live television and motherhood is no easy task, and Gail admits there is no perfect formula. Instead, she has learned to accept that self-care isn’t an indulgence but a necessity. “I’ve learnt that looking after myself isn’t a luxury, it’s what allows me to do everything else well,” she says. Looking ahead, there are still countless sporting stories she wants to tell. Personally, she hopes to keep playing padel for as long as possible and perhaps even return comfortably to running. More than anything, however, her ambition is wonderfully simple. “I’ve realised through my own journey that movement is a privilege,” she reflects. “It gives us confidence, freedom and the ability to keep doing the things that bring us joy. Sport has shaped so much of my life – from the little girl playing every sport she could in Essex, to the career it gave me, to the community I’ve found through padel. I hope it continues to be part of my story for many years to come.” Follow Gail on Instagram @gaildavistv Arthrosamid® is an injectable hydrogel implant that delivers lasting relief for knee osteoarthritis. A proven, one-step treatment that’s safe, simple, and without surgery - redefining treatment for knee OA. For more information and to find a clinic visit arthrosamid.com

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

GAIL DAVIS.indd 18

25/08/26 08:22

AU C T ION EE RS

VA LUERS

HansonsHertfordshire auctioneers and valuers are pleased to invite you to our regional valuation days.

We are currently consigning jewellery, watches, antiques and collectibles for our monthly auctions. Our experienced valuers would be delighted to meet and advise you on auction estimates. We also oﬀer FREE home visits if you are unable to attend our valuation days. EVERY Wednesday at Burston Garden Centre, North Orbital Road, St Albans AL22DS 10am – 1pm

EVERY Thursday at The Kings Arms, 147 High Street, Berkhamsted HP43HL 10am – 1pm

EVERY Friday at our auction house Hansons Hertfordshire Unit 1, Lumen Road, Royston, Hertfordshire SG8 7AG 10am – 1pm

EVERY third Thursday at Saracens Head Hotel, High Street, Great Dunmow, Dunmow CM6 1AG 10am – 2pm

AND the last Wednesday of every month at The Acorn Room Pendley Manor Hotel Cow Lane, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5QY 10am –2pm

hansonsherts.co.uk Telephone: 01763 793 688 AD HANSONS AUCTIONEERS.indd 19 HANSON_AUCTIONEERS_FP_ABS_HERTS_AUG2025 FINAL.indd 1

25/08/26 08:22 18/07/2025 19:01

MALDON SMOKEHOUSE

E ST U A R Y

ESCAPE From maritime heritage to waterside dining, Maldon blends centuries of history with one of Essex's most distinctive coastal settings

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

MALDON.indd 20

25/08/26 08:22

CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

MALDON REVEALS LAYERS OF ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY

here are towns that wear their history quietly, and then there is Maldon, where almost every street, quay and waterside view tells a story stretching back more than a thousand years. Sitting on the banks of the River Blackwater, around 15 miles east of Chelmsford, Maldon has long occupied a strategic position, first as a Saxon settlement and later as one of England’s most important medieval ports. Today it remains one of Essex’s most attractive destinations, combining centuries of maritime heritage with independent shopping, exceptional food and spectacular estuary scenery. The town’s defining historical moment came in AD 991 with the Battle of Maldon, one of the most famous conflicts of AngloSaxon England. Viking raiders landed on Northey Island before confronting the forces of Earl Byrhtnoth. Although the English were defeated, the bravery displayed during the battle became immortalised in the Old English poem The Battle of Maldon, one

of the great surviving works of AngloSaxon literature. The battle helped shape England’s response to Viking invasions and remains central to the town's identity. By medieval times Maldon had become a thriving market town and port. The town’s famous sea salt production dates back centuries, with the unique combination of Blackwater estuary seawater and traditional harvesting methods producing flakes prized by chefs around the world. Maldon Salt, now recognised globally, remains one of Essex’s best-known exports. Walking through Maldon today reveals layers of architectural history. Timber-framed buildings stand alongside Georgian merchants’ houses, medieval churches overlook winding streets, and elegant Victorian additions reflect the prosperity brought by maritime trade.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO The best way to discover Maldon is simply by wandering. Its compact centre encourages slow exploration, with independent shops, galleries, cafés and historic buildings revealing themselves around every corner.

High Street remains the heart of the town, lined with attractive period buildings housing everything from artisan food shops to antique dealers and boutiques. One of Maldon’s greatest treasures is Promenade Park, a beautifully maintained riverside park stretching alongside the Blackwater Estuary. Opened in the late Victorian era, it continues to provide one of Essex’s finest outdoor spaces. Visitors come to admire colourful floral displays, enjoy riverside walks or simply watch yachts drift across the estuary. Perhaps nothing symbolises Maldon’s maritime heritage more vividly than the collection of Thames sailing barges moored at Hythe Quay. These distinctive rust-red sailed vessels once transported cargo around Britain’s coastline and estuaries, and Maldon now boasts one of the country’s largest concentrations of preserved barges. Seeing them lined along the quay offers a glimpse into an era when wind-powered commercial shipping dominated the River Blackwater. Several operators offer sailing trips aboard these beautifully restored vessels, allowing visitors to experience A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MALDON.indd 21

25/08/26 08:22

XXXX • XXXX

QUEEN VICTORIA

A MALDON SALT RECIPE

traditional seamanship while enjoying sweeping views across the estuary. For those with an interest in local heritage, the Maldon Museum offers an engaging overview of the town’s development, showcasing archaeological discoveries, maritime history and everyday life through the centuries. It provides valuable context before exploring the historic streets beyond. Just outside the town centre lies Beeleigh Abbey, originally founded in the 12th century by Premonstratensian monks. Although now privately owned, its beautiful riverside location where the Rivers Blackwater and Chelmer meet remains one of the area’s most picturesque spots. Nature lovers should also venture onto the Blackwater Estuary itself. Designated as an internationally important habitat, it supports huge populations of migratory birds including avocets, Brent geese, redshanks and curlews. Birdwatchers travel from across Britain to experience the changing wildlife throughout the seasons. Throughout the year Maldon hosts an impressive programme of events. The Maldon Mud Race, first staged in 1973, has become internationally famous, attracting competitors willing to race through the estuary’s notoriously sticky mud in elaborate fancy dress.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK Given its coastal location and internationally recognised sea salt, it is no surprise that Maldon has developed an increasingly impressive food scene. Fresh seafood naturally features prominently, while several restaurants make excellent use of produce sourced across Essex. Among the town’s standout dining destinations is The Blue Boar Hotel, a handsome Grade I listed building occupying a prominent position on the High Street. Combining centuries-old character with contemporary British cooking, its restaurant showcases seasonal ingredients

in elegant surroundings while the historic coaching inn atmosphere makes it equally appealing for overnight stays. For refined waterside dining, The Queen Victoria enjoys an enviable location overlooking the River Blackwater. Seafood naturally dominates the menu, with locally landed fish, oysters and shellfish frequently taking centre stage alongside carefully prepared modern British classics. Few restaurants in Essex can match its combination of estuary views and relaxed sophistication. Another standout is The Maldon Smokehouse, which has quickly become one of the town’s most distinctive dining destinations. Overlooking the Blackwater Estuary, it specialises in meat, fish and artisan produce smoked on site using traditional techniques, creating everything from smoked salmon and mackerel to slow-cooked meats and generous sharing platters. Alongside its relaxed restaurant, the adjoining Estuary Bar provides one of Maldon’s most scenic spots for a drink, with panoramic views across the meeting point of the river and sea. It’s a fitting showcase for the area’s maritime heritage and local produce, combining informal waterside dining with expertly prepared smoked flavours that are difficult to find elsewhere in Essex. In the town centre, Mrs Salisbury’s Famous Tea Rooms offers one of Maldon’s most charming settings for afternoon tea. Housed within a characterful historic building, it serves freshly baked cakes, homemade scones and traditional lunches in surroundings that perfectly complement the town’s heritage. Those looking for a relaxed waterside meal will enjoy The Jolly Sailor, a traditional pub overlooking the estuary where classic British dishes accompany uninterrupted river views. Watching sailing barges pass while enjoying locally caught seafood feels quintessentially Maldon. Historic pubs remain an important part of Maldon’s appeal. The Swan Hotel,

Five things you may not know about Maldon 1. The town inspired one of England's

oldest surviving poems. While many people know about the Battle of Maldon, fewer realise that the Old English poem describing the conflict remains one of the most important pieces of Anglo-Saxon literature ever discovered. It continues to be studied in universities around the world.

•

2. The Blackwater Estuary helped shape

modern conservation. The estuary surrounding Maldon is internationally protected under the Ramsar Convention for its wetlands, recognising its importance to migratory birds on a global scale rather than simply within Britain.

•

3. Maldon once exported far more than

salt. During its busiest trading years, the port handled timber, bricks, coal, grain and agricultural produce, making it one of Essex's most commercially significant riverside settlements throughout the medieval and Georgian periods.

•

4. Traditional sailing barges are still built and restored nearby. Maldon remains one of the few places where specialist shipwrights continue preserving these iconic vessels using traditional techniques, ensuring an important chapter of Britain's maritime history survives for future generations.

•

5. The town sits at the end of one of England's oldest navigations. The Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation, completed in the late 18th century, links Chelmsford with Maldon via a remarkable series of locks, creating a peaceful route now enjoyed by walkers, boaters and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

dating back several centuries, continues to welcome visitors with timber beams, open fires and a menu centred on hearty British favourites. Meanwhile, The White Horse, another long-established coaching inn, provides an atmospheric stop after a day spent exploring the High Street.

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

MALDON.indd 22

25/08/26 08:22

AD FENWICK.indd 23

25/08/26 08:22

Hidden

HISTORIES Heritage Open Days unlocks some of Essex's most fascinating landmarks, inviting visitors to discover remarkable stories behind closed doors By MARK KEBBLE

very September, Heritage Open Days throws open the doors to places that are often hidden from public view, celebrating England’s extraordinary history through free events, guided tours and behind-the-scenes experiences. From medieval buildings and historic libraries to secret gardens, Roman archaeology and remarkable churches, it is a chance to explore the county in a completely different way. Whether you are passionate about local history or simply looking for an interesting day out, this year's Essex programme offers a fascinating journey through centuries of heritage. Here are some of the highlights not to miss.

Friary Walled Garden, Maldon Open: Sunday 13 & Sunday 20 September, 10am-4pm Hidden just a stone’s throw from Maldon’s bustling High Street, the Friary Walled Garden feels like one of the town’s best-kept secrets. Beyond its walls lies a peaceful oasis where formal Georgian design blends

24 18

effortlessly with an exuberant cottage garden, creating a space that is both elegant and wonderfully informal. Maintained by the dedicated volunteers of the Maldon and Heybridge Horticultural Society, the garden showcases the beauty of traditional horticulture while providing a tranquil escape from everyday life. Visitors can wander along carefully tended paths, admire seasonal planting and appreciate the remarkable transformation of a oncehidden corner into one of Maldon’s loveliest green spaces. It is a reminder that some of Essex’s greatest treasures are tucked away in the most unexpected places.

techniques before inviting visitors to try ringing for themselves, making this a genuinely hands-on experience. Exclusive access to the bell tower adds another dimension, giving visitors an appreciation of the skill, coordination and tradition involved in English bell ringing. It is an engaging event that brings centuries-old customs vividly to life. FRIARY WALLED GARDEN, PHOTO BY LIZ DUNKIN

St Nicholas Church, Elmdon Open: Saturday 19 September, 2pm-5pm For anyone who has ever wondered what happens behind the scenes in a church bell tower, St Nicholas Church in Elmdon offers a rare opportunity to find out. Although the church’s historic bells are temporarily out of action, visitors can experience the art of campanology through a specially installed mobile mini ring. Qualified instructors from the Association of Ringing Teachers will demonstrate

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

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS.indd 24

25/08/26 08:23

CULTURE • EVENT

This year's programme offers a fascinating journey through centuries of heritage Our Lady of Fatima, Harlow Open: Monday 14 September, 10am-12.30pm Harlow is renowned for its post-war architecture, and few buildings illustrate that better than the Grade II* listed Church of Our Lady of Fatima. Its most striking feature is its spectacular stained-glass construction, with around 60 per cent of the building formed from coloured glass set directly into concrete – believed to be the first major use of the technique in England. The result is a wonderfully luminous interior where light pours through vibrant geometric panels, transforming the church into a constantly changing work of art. Heritage Open Days provides the perfect excuse to discover a building that combines bold modernist design with spiritual tranquillity and remains one of Essex’s most distinctive architectural landmarks.

Thomas Plume's Library, Maldon Open: Saturday 12 September, 10am-4pm One of Britain’s oldest public libraries provides an ideal setting for an exhibition exploring the everyday lives of working people during the 16th and 17th centuries.

THE MOOT HALL, MALDON

Through an impressive collection of rare books, visitors can gain an insight into professions that shaped early modern England, from sailors and constables to lawyers, clergy and craftsmen. Rather than focusing solely on kings and queens, the exhibition shines a light on ordinary lives and the written works that influenced them. Housed within the atmospheric surroundings of Thomas Plume’s historic library, the event offers a fascinating blend of literature, social history and beautifully preserved heritage, making it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in the stories behind the books.

Old Library and Law Courts, Colchester Open: Saturday 19 September, tours at 1pm & 2.30pm Colchester’s handsome former public library has been welcoming readers since 1894, but Heritage Open Days allows visitors to venture far beyond the bookshelves. Guided tours reveal the building’s striking Neo-Jacobean architecture before leading guests into the atmospheric former law courts and prison cells hidden within the complex. These contrasting spaces tell the

story of civic life in Victorian Colchester, where education, justice and public service all came together under one roof. From intricate architectural details to sombre holding cells, the tour offers a compelling glimpse into how the building has served the town for well over a century.

The Moot Hall, Maldon Open: Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 September, 10am-4pm Standing proudly on Maldon’s High Street, the magnificent Moot Hall has overlooked the town for more than 500 years. Originally built as the D'Arcy Tower, the medieval brick building has played many roles throughout its long history, including courthouse, prison and civic headquarters. Visitors can explore fascinating historic rooms including the Court Room and former prison yard before climbing the rare brick newel staircase to the rooftop. The reward is one of Essex’s finest panoramic views, stretching across Maldon and the River Blackwater. It is a wonderful opportunity to step inside one of the county’s most recognisable historic buildings, while appreciating its remarkable survival through half a millennium of change. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS.indd 25

25/08/26 08:23

CULTURE • EVENT

The Munnings Art Museum, Dedham Open: Tuesday 15 September, 11am-4.30pm Set within picturesque Castle House in the heart of Dedham Vale, The Munnings Art Museum celebrates the life and work of Sir Alfred Munnings, one of Britain’s finest equestrian and landscape painters. During Heritage Open Days, visitors can explore rooms lined with celebrated masterpieces alongside lesser-known sketches that reveal the artist’s creative process. Outside, Munnings’ original studio remains preserved with many of the tools, materials and props he used throughout his career, offering an unusually intimate insight into his working life. Surrounded by the beautiful Essex countryside that inspired so much of his work, the museum provides an inspiring blend of art, history and landscape.

THOMAS PLUME'S LIBRARY SYSTEMA AGRICULTURAE BY JOHN WORLIDGE

Tours bring the extraordinary archaeological landscape of Gosbecks to life, revealing the remains of Britain's largest known Roman theatre OLD LIBRARY AND LAW COURTS PHOTO BY PHILIP J. WISE

Gosbecks Archaeological Park, Colchester Open: Sunday 20 September, guided tours at 11am & 2pm Long before Colchester became one of Roman Britain’s most important settlements, Gosbecks was already a significant Iron Age centre. Guided tours bring this extraordinary archaeological landscape to life, revealing the remains of Britain’s largest known Roman theatre, capable of seating around 5,000 spectators, alongside the foundations of a Romano-Celtic temple. The site is also closely associated with Emperor Claudius’ invasion of Britain in AD43, making it one of the country’s most historically significant locations. Today the earthworks sit peacefully within open parkland, but with expert interpretation visitors can vividly imagine the bustling religious ceremonies, performances and political gatherings that once took place here, making it a fitting finale to a Heritage Open Days adventure across Essex. For full listings, visit heritageopendays.org.uk

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

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS.indd 26

25/08/26 08:23

FILLER - ALTERNATIVE STRETCH.indd 27

25/08/26 10:59

AD COPAS RESTAURANT.indd 28

25/08/26 08:23

FOOD & DRINK

Sisterly love EAT MOMO

Eat Momo have announced their newest residency, at the Coach and Horses in Leyton. Founded by sisters Trishna and Dipa Chamling, Eat Momo first opened in Borough Yards as a tribute to the food and traditions they grew up with in Nepal. Now, guests visiting The Coach will be able to enjoy their signature momo in a classic pub setting. eatmomo.uk

10 Of The Best... 30 • Drinks 33 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD OPENER.indd 29

25/08/26 08:23

FOOD LEIGH ON SEA, PHOTO BY LE BEAU PHOTOGRAPHY

10 OF THE BEST

For harvest SEASON

Whether you are looking for a sustainable restaurant or to make the most of game season, Essex has plenty of top options The Magic Mushroom

magicmushroomrestaurant.co.uk Few Essex restaurants embrace the changing seasons quite like Billericay’s The Magic Mushroom. Long regarded as one of the county’s finest independent restaurants, chef Darren Bennett’s menus evolve almost weekly, making September one of the most exciting times to visit. As summer vegetables give way to earthy autumn flavours, diners can expect dishes built around wild mushrooms, heritage squash, blackberries and orchard fruits, alongside the arrival of partridge, venison and other game as the shooting season begins. Sustainability is central to the kitchen’s philosophy, with close relationships forged with Essex growers, fishermen and farmers ensuring ingredients travel as few miles as possible.

Pig & Whistle Restaurant pigandwhistlechelmsford.uk Harvest month is the ideal time to

experience the Pig & Whistle in Chelmsford, whose acclaimed tasting menus regularly champion the very best local produce. The restaurant even stages a dedicated “Taste of Essex” seven-course menu each autumn, showcasing ingredients sourced from around the county. September naturally lends itself to wild mushrooms, late-season vegetables, apples, pears and the first game birds, all presented with impressive technical skill. Rather than following culinary fashions, the Pig & Whistle focuses on seasonality, giving guests a genuine snapshot of what Essex fields, woodlands and coastline are producing at that moment.

Rubino Kitchen

rubinokitchen.co.uk Set within the countryside near Tiptree, Rubino Kitchen has earned a loyal following by putting provenance at the centre of every menu. Chef-patron Massimo Rubino works closely with local growers and artisan suppliers, allowing the seasons to dictate

what reaches the plate rather than relying on imported ingredients. September is when the restaurant really comes into its own, with earthy vegetables, orchard fruits, locally reared meats and the first game appearing alongside handmade pasta and refined Italian influences. The result is an appealing blend of Essex produce and Mediterranean technique.

The Gardeners Rest Restaurant at RHS Garden Hyde Hall rhs.org.uk Few restaurants can genuinely claim ingredients are picked metres from the kitchen, but that’s exactly what happens at the Gardeners Rest Restaurant overlooking RHS Garden Hyde Hall. Seasonal vegetables, herbs and salads are regularly harvested directly from the Global Growth Vegetable Garden before appearing on the menu the very same day. September is perhaps the finest month to

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

10 FOR HARVEST SEASON.indd 30

25/08/26 08:23

FOOD XXXXXXXX & DRINK • XXXXX TOP 10

Located on a working farm, The Farm Cafe by Black Pig offers a direct connection between ﬁeld and plate visit, when tomatoes, pumpkins, squash, beans, beetroot and apples are all reaching their peak. The menus are refreshingly simple, allowing exceptional produce to shine rather than being overworked.

Flitch of Bacon

flitchofbacon.co.uk September signals the beginning of one of the most eagerly anticipated periods in the British culinary calendar, and the Flitch of Bacon in Little Dunmow embraces it wholeheartedly. This elegant country inn has built its reputation on refined British cooking rooted firmly in the surrounding countryside, making game one of the stars of the autumn menu. Expect beautifully prepared partridge, pheasant later in the season, venison and rich sauces accompanied by celeriac, mushrooms, blackberries and hedgerow fruits. Rather than overwhelming the ingredients, the kitchen lets exceptional local produce speak for itself.

Food Leigh-on-Sea

foodleighonsea.com Harvest isn’t solely about fields and farms. FLITCH OF BACON

RHS GARDEN HYDE HALL, PHOTO BY DANIEL BRIDGE

Along the Essex coast, Food Leigh-on-Sea demonstrates that September is equally rewarding for seafood lovers. The kitchen pairs the county’s superb fish and shellfish with vegetables, herbs and fruit sourced from local growers, creating menus that perfectly bridge late summer and early autumn. Wild mushrooms, beetroot, apples and squash complement beautifully cooked fish, while sustainable sourcing underpins every dish. The restaurant’s regularly changing menu encourages repeat visits throughout the season, as ingredients evolve week by week.

The Maldon Smokehouse

maldonsmokehouse.co.uk The Maldon Smokehouse offers a different take on harvest dining by championing one of Essex’s oldest food traditions – smoking locally sourced fish and meat. During September, smoked salmon, trout and other delicacies pair beautifully with seasonal salads, apples, beetroot and artisan breads, creating menus that celebrate local craftsmanship as much as local ingredients. Sustainability comes through careful sourcing and traditional preservation techniques that have been part of Britain’s food culture for centuries. Set close to the Blackwater Estuary, the restaurant provides a genuine taste of coastal Essex, while naturally complementing another famous local product – Maldon Sea Salt.

The Farm Cafe by Black Pig

farmcafebyblackpig.co.uk Located on a working farm in Maldon, The Farm Cafe by Black Pig offers perhaps the most direct connection between field and plate in Essex. Produce grown around the estate, alongside locally reared meat and artisan ingredients, forms the backbone of a menu that changes with the seasons. September is filled with pumpkins, courgettes, beetroot, tomatoes, apples and freshly harvested vegetables, making it one of the most colourful times to visit. While

more informal than many restaurants on this list, its commitment to supporting local agriculture makes it an excellent example of sustainable dining in practice.

Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel

countyhotelchelmsford.co.uk Named after the coastal plant synonymous with East Anglia, Samphire Restaurant in Chelmsford naturally places local produce at the forefront of its menus. September allows the kitchen to showcase the transition between summer and autumn through dishes featuring heritage vegetables, locally sourced meats, mushrooms and orchard fruit, all presented with contemporary flair. Close relationships with regional suppliers help reduce food miles while ensuring produce arrives at peak freshness. Harvest month highlights precisely why modern British restaurants increasingly build menus around what’s available locally, rather than importing ingredients unnecessarily. The result is food that’s not only more sustainable, but also more representative of the county itself.

Ellis’s Restaurant at Greenwoods Hotel

greenwoodshotel.com Set within the elegant surroundings of Greenwoods Hotel in Stock, Ellis’s Restaurant provides a polished setting for enjoying the flavours of early autumn. The kitchen takes full advantage of harvest season by incorporating local vegetables, game, mushrooms and orchard fruits into sophisticated modern British dishes. September is particularly rewarding as menus begin shifting away from lighter summer cooking towards richer, more comforting flavours without losing their freshness. Careful sourcing from regional producers ensures ingredients remain seasonal while supporting Essex agriculture, reflecting the growing importance of sustainability within fine dining. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

10 FOR HARVEST SEASON.indd 31

25/08/26 08:23

FILLER - LONDON BARREL.indd 32

25/08/26 08:23

FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

An early

tradition Why Christmas starts in September

W THE COPAS FAMILY HAS BEEN RAISING TURKEYS FOR NEARLY 70 YEARS, AND THEIR APPROACH REMAINS REFRESHINGLY TRADITIONAL

hile most of us won’t give Christmas dinner serious thought for another couple of months, in the fields of Cookham, Berkshire, Christmas is already well under way. At Copas Traditional Turkeys, preparations for the festive season don’t begin with decorations, shopping lists or the first appearance of mince pies. They begin months earlier, with turkeys enjoying a rather leisurely summer and autumn roaming the farm’s grassy meadows and orchards and that time, according to the Copas family, is one of the most important ingredients in a great Christmas turkey. The family has been farming in Cookham Dean for more than a century and raising turkeys for nearly 70 years. While much has changed during that time, their approach remains refreshingly traditional. Copas turkeys are allowed to grow slowly to full adult maturity, typically reaching 24-26 weeks, rather than being produced as quickly as possible. It means that September is an important month on the farm. While thoughts elsewhere may be turning to the new school term, the turkeys are still growing, exploring their outdoor surroundings and developing naturally. That extra time makes a noticeable difference at Christmas. As the birds mature, they develop a natural layer of fat beneath the skin which gives the meat its characteristic flavour and succulence.

It also makes life considerably easier for whoever has volunteered to cook Christmas lunch: there’s no need for complicated brining or endless basting, a little seasoning and a hot oven are all that’s required. After rearing comes another traditional process. Copas turkeys are dry plucked and hand finished before being game hung for up to 14 days, a timehonoured technique which intensifies flavour and improves the texture and succulence of the meat. It’s an approach that feels particularly relevant today. As shoppers increasingly want to understand where their food has come from and how it has been produced, there’s something reassuringly straightforward about food that takes time. No shortcuts; just good farming, careful husbandry and generations of experience. So, while Christmas morning may still seem reassuringly distant, a very traditional Christmas is already taking shape in the fields at Cookham. The secret to a memorable Christmas lunch isn’t something that happens in the kitchen on 25th December. It starts months earlier. Copas Traditional Turkeys are available to order for Christmas from copasfarmshop.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

COPAS.indd 33

25/08/26 08:24

FILLER - BLOOBLOOM.indd 34

25/08/26 08:24

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 36 • Trend: Necklaces 39 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION OPENER.indd 35

25/08/26 08:24

POETRY has launched Catena, from the Latin meaning 'chain' or 'linked series' and inspired by the work of artist Brendan Stuart Burns. It is sure to add a unique twist to autumn dressing P O E T RY FA S H I O N .C O. U K

SHOOT.indd 36

25/08/26 08:24

FULL of

layers SHOOT.indd 37

25/08/26 08:24

FILLER - MULBERRY.indd 38

25/08/26 08:24

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 39

25/08/26 08:24

AD GOLD CARE HOMES.indd 40

25/08/26 08:24

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 43 • Randox Health 45 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HB OPENER.indd 41

25/08/26 09:28

Always a Classic. Designed to last a lifetime, these minimalist bottles have kept people hydrated and happy for years. Our vacuum-insulated Classic is the solution for both cold and hot beverages on the go. This iconic bottle is proof that reusables never go out of style. kleankanteen.co.uk

FILLER - KLEAN KANTEEN.indd 42

25/08/26 09:28

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

A IR 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 43

25/08/26 10:59

ESCAPE - WITHOUT LEAVING HOME

C L E V E R LY C O M PA C T F O R T H E C I T Y the traditional sauna experience, upgraded

L U X U R I O U S LY L A R G E I N T H E W I L D

classic design, best in class, built to last

WH-Advert_ABSOLUTELY_02.26_AW.indd 1 FILLER - WILDHUT.indd 44

22/02/26 11:44:04 25/08/26 09:29

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

body early, understand individual risk factors and make informed decisions that support long-term health. That philosophy sits at the heart of Randox Health. With more than ten clinics across London, Randox Health continues to make advanced diagnostics more accessible with new locations at Westfield London, St John’s Wood and Hampstead. Whether fitting an appointment around work or family life, Londoners can access comprehensive blood testing without the need for a GP referral or lengthy waiting lists.

THE NEW

LUXURY? Understanding your health before symptoms appear

or years, we’ve invested in everything that helps us perform at our best – from personal trainers and nutritionists to wearable technology that tracks every step, heartbeat and hour of sleep. Yet many of the health conditions that have the greatest impact on our lives develop quietly, often without any obvious symptoms. Heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, metabolic disorders and many other conditions can develop over years. By the time symptoms appear, opportunities for earlier intervention may already have been missed. A growing number of Londoners are changing that narrative. Rather than waiting for symptoms, they’re choosing to understand what their bodies are signalling today. It’s a shift from reactive to proactive healthcare – using advanced diagnostics to identify imbalances in the

MORE THAN A BLOOD TEST At the forefront of Randox Health’s offering is RanChip Insight 360, a health intelligence platform that delivers predictive health insights into 200 conditions. From simple blood and urine sample analyses hundreds of biomarkers are measured, providing insights across 200 health conditions including heart health, inflammation, nutrition, hormones, digestive health and more. Rather than reporting whether results sit within a reference range, the test looks at the bigger picture – identifying patterns and changes that may indicate your body is beginning to move away from optimal health. SMARTER CHOICES FOR LONG-TERM HEALTH By understanding how your body is functioning now, you can make smarter decisions around nutrition, exercise, sleep and lifestyle, while investigating areas that may require further attention. Results are delivered through the Randox Health app, where intuitive dashboards make complex health data easy to understand and allow you to monitor trends over time, creating a personalised picture of your health as it evolves. As London continues to embrace a more proactive approach, Randox Health is helping people move beyond treating illness towards protecting future health. Randox Health now has more than 10 clinics across London, including new locations at Westfield London, St John's Wood and Hampstead, alongside a network of more than 50 clinics across the UK and Ireland. Book your health check today at randoxhealth.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RANDOX.indd 45

25/08/26 09:29

AD TYE ARCHITECTS.indd 46

25/08/26 09:29

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 48 • House of Lexden 52 • Jensen Beds 54 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS OPENER.indd 47

25/08/26 09:30

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 48

25/08/26 09:30

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 49

25/08/26 09:31

INTERIORS • Q&A

First hand KNOWLEDGE

Absolutely meets Joss G S, the local Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant from Battersea Studio

team and, three years in, serendipity struck again. Before I knew it, I was moving my life to southwest London to be the Battersea Studio Colour Consultant, the first position of its kind. It was a leap of faith and how glad I am that I took it! Q Can colour actually change how a room feels, even if nothing else changes? A Unquestionably. Paintable surfaces typically make up 90+ percent of a space, what we do with those surfaces shouldn’t be an afterthought. The tone and depth of colour is what water is to a lake, and the texture of the surfaces we paint is what foliage is to the forest. It is what defines the space, what gives it form and feel, a beginning and an end. Colour has the power to hold or release you; it can define how strongly or subtly your own presence is felt in a space.

Q Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career with Farrow & Ball… A I came to Farrow & Ball at a rather interesting time, my colleagues and I had just been made redundant following COVID and I was two thirds of the way through a course in Interior Design. Through a series of serendipitous events, I found my way to Farrow & Ball, and it was perfect! I began as an Assistant Cluster Manager in Solihull, a great town with an excellent

and we encourage sending in photos, mood boards, floorplans and so on to help build a picture so that we are prepared in advance, exactly the same as we would for an in-home consultation. It’s all about asking the right questions and listening to the answers, and using our expert knowledge to understand the light and dimensions of the rooms.

Q How do you help couples or families with very different tastes reach one scheme everyone loves? A Always with patience and diplomacy. Typically, we are simply wanting our spaces to look beautiful and work for us, the purpose of a Colour Consultancy isn’t to tell you what will or won’t work, it’s to show you. Where there are differing opinions I like to explore those so everyone is heard but ultimately, it’s the palettes and colours who do the talking. Naturally, I will have my own thoughts, however the best way forward for the space often becomes apparent.

Q Do you have a favourite Farrow & Ball colour right now? A I rarely have favourites so I’ll take a two-pronged approach in my answer. For its versatility, Dimity No.2008 is my bread and butter. It brings together a near holy trinity of warmth, light, and reliability all in one colour. I say reliability because Dimity tends to hold true as a colour regardless of where you use it, making it ideal for challenging spaces such as hallways or where the light is temperamental. Faded Terracotta No.CC8 is also a great summer hue, it is perhaps the most tepid of our terracotta colours and as the name suggests has a subdued quality. I love its duality in that, emotionally, it is quite grounding, but aesthetically it can really elevate a space. It’s also part of our Archive collection, meaning it’s harder for friends and neighbours to steal your ideas!

Q When is a virtual consultation just as effective as an in-home visit? A A virtual consultation is just as effective as an in-home and a great option for those who don’t have a Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant nearby. A questionnaire is sent

Visit your local showroom to find out more about Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy. Book an appointment with Joss in store at 146 Northcote Road, London, SW11 6RD, or visit farrow-ball.com

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

FARROW AND BALL.indd 50

25/08/26 09:31

Lock in Energy Savings and Secure Your Home and Family

FREE TRIPLE GLAZING

UPGRADE

plus HOME SECURITY

SYSTEM

Offer now extended to end of September*

Protect your home from rising energy costs and improve security, simply. We’re so excited about the energy efficiency of our innovative new triple glazing, we’re offering it as a free upgrade. It exceeds current standards, to help reduce bills this coming winter.

Claim Offer

And every order comes complete with our window security monitoring and alarm system, keeping your property and your family safe. *Free as upgrades when you order new windows.

0800 666 444 sehbac.com WINDO WS DO O R S GA R A GE D OOR S R O O FLIN E & C L A D D I N G

Rated Excellent

E X T E N SI O N S C O N SE RV AT O RI E S F L AT RO O F S G ARAG E C O NV E RSI O NS

*Offer ends 30th September. Ts&Cs apply. See website for detail

AD SEH BAC.indd 51

25/08/26 09:31

H O U S E

Proud

Essex-based interior designer Michaela Clarke discusses a former career in entertainment, designing for people and county architecture

ichaela Clarke believes that the best interiors are about far more than aesthetics. As the founder of House of Lexden, the Essex-based interior design studio creating elegant homes across the county and beyond, she has built a reputation for designing spaces that are as practical as they are beautiful. Her signature approach blends timeless style with a contemporary edge, layering thoughtful lighting, carefully chosen materials and meaningful pieces to create homes that genuinely reflect the people who live in them. In this interview, she discusses her journey into interior design, the inspiration she finds in Essex, and why creating calm, characterful homes that stand the test of time has become her ultimate passion.

Q You had successful a career in TV and

film before moving into interior design. What inspired that career change? A I’ve always been fascinated by people and understanding what makes them tick. After almost a decade running my own television recruitment business, I was looking for a career that combined creativity with my fascination for people and how they live. Around the same time we were renovating and extending our own home, which made me realise just how profoundly our surroundings influence the way we act and feel. That experience sparked a passion for interiors, but it was my understanding of people, relationships and problem-solving that gave me the confidence to build House of Lexden. Looking back, I don’t think I ever really changed careers. I used to match talented people with the right opportunities. Today, I help match people with the way they want to live.

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

MICHAELA CLARKE.indd 52

25/08/26 11:00

INTERIORS • Q&A

Q How would you describe your design

philosophy? A For me, every project starts with the architecture and the people, not the furniture. Light is one of the first things I notice when I walk into a house. It changes how a room feels throughout the day and influences almost every design decision I make. I want to understand why someone bought the house in the first place, what they love about it, how they live and, just as importantly, what they don’t like. Those answers tell me far more than simply asking someone what colour they’d like their sofa to be. Q How do you get to know a client well

MICHAELA CLARKE

enough to create a space that genuinely tells their story? A I ask lots of questions. Of course I ask what people love, but I also ask what they dislike because that’s often where the most important clues are. Why did you choose this house? What drew you to this area? What room do you avoid? How do you spend your weekends? How do you want life to feel here? Every project naturally carries elements of my design thinking, but my role isn’t to create another House of Lexden home. It’s to help clients see possibilities they may never have considered themselves, while always respecting who they are and how they want to live. Q What do you particularly enjoy about

working on properties across Essex?

A Essex has an incredible mix of

architecture, and every property presents a different challenge. I’ve always been fascinated by history. I love understanding why a building was designed the way it was and how we can respect that character while making it work beautifully for modern family life. Q Can you tell us about one or two

standout Essex projects?

A One memorable project involved

transforming a large five-bedroom Victorian villa for a family returning to the UK in just five weeks. Alongside decorating, we coordinated damp repairs, new flooring, plumbing, electrical work and colour consultations throughout the property. It was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when talented trades work together with a shared vision. Another project that will always stay with me was redesigning a living room that the owners hardly used. Today it’s where family and friends naturally gather. When clients tell me they’re proud to invite friends into their home again, or that they now spend every evening in a room they once avoided, those moments genuinely make my heart sing. Q What are you working on now? A I have just completed a project in

Wivenhoe, where the client loved midcentury modern design. I was inspired by a Tom Dixon pendant my client admired and I also took inspiration from his love of art and design. Alongside my interior design projects, I’ve recently launched a property presentation service for homeowners preparing to sell. Rather than simply styling a house for photographs, I look at how each room functions, how the property should be marketed, and the small changes that can completely transform first impressions. I’m also working on a number of family homes, ranging from individual room schemes through to larger renovations involving bespoke joinery and complete redesigns. House of Lexden offers everything from focused design consultations and individual room schemes through to full interior design, bespoke joinery and larger renovation projects across Essex and the surrounding counties. Discover more at houseoflexden.com and @house_of_lexden A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MICHAELA CLARKE.indd 53

25/08/26 11:00

Levelling

UP Take your sleep comfort to the next level with Jensen

ensen adjustable beds are becoming an increasingly popular choice – and it’s easy to see why. Combining Norwegian craftsmanship with exceptional sleep comfort and smart functionality, they give you the freedom to adjust your bed to suit the moment. Once you’ve experienced the flexibility of an adjustable bed, it may quickly become your favourite place to relax – day or night. WHY CHOOSE A JENSEN ADJUSTABLE BED? With a double adjustable bed, you and your partner can adjust the head and foot ends independently to find your preferred positions. You can also synchronise both sides and control them together with one remote.

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

JENSEN BEDS.indd 54

25/08/26 09:32

• PARTNERSHIP • XXXXX INTERIORS XXXXXXXX

JENSEN'S BEDS ARE DEVELOPED WITH EXPERTISE IN PHYSIOLOGY

The Jensen SplitTopper has been specially developed for their double adjustable beds. From the centre down to the foot end, it creates one seamless sleeping surface without a gap between you and your partner. At the head end, the topper is split, allowing each side to be adjusted individually. ADJUSTABLE FUNCTIONALIT Y, CONTINENTAL LOOKS Advanced functionality doesn’t have to compromise on design. The mechanical components are discreetly integrated into the bed frame, so when the bed is flat, it has the elegant appearance of a continental bed. MAKE MORE OF YOUR BEDROOM Breakfast in bed, reading before sleep or enjoying a lazy morning watching TV – an adjustable bed makes it easy to find a comfortable position. Instead of stacking pillows behind your back, simply adjust the bed at the touch of a button using the remote control or your

smartphone. When you find a position you love, the memory function lets you save it and return to it whenever you like. WHY CHOOSE JENSEN? Since 1947, Jensen’s purpose has been to help people sleep better. Their beds are developed with expertise in physiology and sleep comfort, combining generations of craftsmanship with continuous innovation. Features such as Jensen Exact Comfort Adjustment, the unique Jensen Original Zone System and the Aloy® spring system are designed to provide excellent support and comfort throughout the night. The result is a bed designed around one simple goal: helping you wake up fully rested. MADE IN NORWAY SINCE 1947 Jensen was established in 1947, when resources were scarce and ingenuity was essential. Their first mattresses were made using materials such as horsehair and cotton wool – natural materials that were available at the time.

Much has changed since then, but their commitment to outstanding sleep comfort has remained the same. Every Jensen bed is still made in Svelvik, Norway. For Jensen, Made in Norway is more than a label. It represents generations of craftsmanship, attention to detail and a dedication to quality. DISCOVER JENSEN IN LONDON Choosing a new bed is a personal investment, and finding the right comfort is an important part of that decision. If you are considering a Jensen bed in the UK, they invite you to visit their showroom at the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre. Their London-based team can guide you through the collections, help you find the right comfort and provide personalised recommendations based on your needs. JENSEN CHELSEA HARBOUR jensenbeds.chelseaharbour@hildinganders.com 020 3914 1262 / jensen-beds.com

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

JENSEN BEDS.indd 55

25/08/26 09:33

AD INSPIRATION MOTOR YACHTS.indd 56

25/08/26 09:33

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 58 • Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 63 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TRAVEL OP.indd 57

25/08/26 09:33

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 58

25/08/26 09:33

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 59

25/08/26 09:33

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 60

25/08/26 09:33

• 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 61

25/08/26 09:33

AD WEST MERSEA HOLDAY PARK.indd 62

25/08/26 09:33

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 63

25/08/26 09:33

AD FOREST SCHOOL.indd 64

25/08/26 09:33

SPECI A L

BEST OF ALL WOR LDS L A N C I N G CO L L EG E

Lancing College is a co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 13–18, set in the stunning South Downs of West Sussex. Welcoming pupils from across the UK and more than 40 nationalities, the College combines academic excellence with a warm, inclusive community. Turn to page 70 to read more. lancingcollege.co.uk

Inside this section 6 6 VA L U E O F A P R E P E D U C AT I O N 7 1 W H Y ST U DY I N A M E R I CA 91 SCHOOL NEWS & VIEWS

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

EDUCATION OPENER.indd 65

25/08/26 11:00

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 66

25/08/26 09:34

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 67

25/08/26 09:34

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 68

25/08/26 09:34

AD OLD BUCKENHAM SCHOOL.indd 69

25/08/26 09:35

AD FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE.indd 70

25/08/26 09:35

EDUCATION • OVERSEAS

SECRETS OF

STATESIDE SUCCESS

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

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. Q How about destinations –

DUKE UNIVERSITY

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

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

STUDY IN USA.indd 71

25/08/26 09:35

“Nail the basics – crush your academics – and also opt for standardised testing” STANFORD UNIVERSITY

fosters that free speech culture, and it gives you that quintessential US college experience – the sports culture and allAmerican movie-like college adventure. 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 – 90% of our admits to Harvard and MIT this last year had submitted research papers. 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 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 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. I wrote mine about working in a chicken burger shop. 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, like Metallica and Iron Maiden. 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 testoptional, 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. Schools are looking for early indicators of entrepreneurial flair, so don’t be afraid to get out there and launch something.

crimsoneducation.org/uk

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

STUDY IN USA.indd 72

25/08/26 09:35

AD BRENTWOD SCHOOL.indd 73

25/08/26 09:35

AD ST EDMUNDS.indd 74

25/08/26 09:35

EDUCATION • BOOKS

E P I C

A DV E N T U R E

PHOTO: SOPHIE DAVIDSON

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

CLARE POLLARD

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

CLARE POLLARD.indd 75

25/08/26 09:35

AD OAKTREE SCHOOL.indd 76

25/08/26 09:35

EDUCATION • BOOKS

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 love 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

"I take children's literature very seriously and think about what stories we are telling them"

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 says. 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 POLLARD.indd 77

25/08/26 09:35

AD BISHOP STORTFORD COLLEGE.indd 78

25/08/26 09:35

EDUCATION • BOOKS

"Children are a particularly good audience to test jokes on" 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 off 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 POLLARD.indd 79

25/08/26 09:35

OPEN MORNING DISCOVER THE POWER OF STEAM... *T

f e e p a yi n g s c h

h for m

The Times Parent Power Guide 2026*

s ix t

National rank in

ith

Friday 2 October - Prep School Saturday 3 October - Senior School

Visit colchesterhighschool.co.uk or scan the QR code below to book your place.

AD COLCHESTER SCHOOL.indd 80

25/08/26 09:35

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

MEET THE

NEW HEAD Alex McCullough ushers in a new era at Orwell Park Prep School, Suffolk

s families across Essex prepare for the new academic year, Orwell Park Prep School – just five minutes from Junction 57 of the A14 in Nacton, near Ipswich – is ready to welcome its new Head, Alex McCullough. Beginning his tenure this September, Alex brings a compelling blend of experience, clarity of vision and genuine warmth that promises to shape an exciting new chapter for one of Suffolk’s most characterful prep schools. Orwell Park’s future is strengthened further by its position within the Benenden Family of Schools, a partnership Alex describes as an exciting aspect of joining the community. “One element that excites me is the strong foundation Orwell Park already has as part of the Benenden Family of Schools,” he explains.

His own journey – from chorister to prep school educator to ISI inspector – has shaped a leader who believes deeply in teamwork and striving for excellence. “Being part of a close-knit community where everyone was working towards a shared goal left a lasting impression on me,” he reflects. These formative experiences underpin his belief in ambitious standards matched with kindness and strong relationships. What struck him most on his first visit was the school’s atmosphere. “There is a warmth and authenticity to Orwell Park that is difficult to manufacture,” he says. Pupils are confident yet grounded, ambitious yet unpressured – a balance many families seek but few schools achieve. As he steps into the role, Alex’s vision is both ambitious and reassuring. He aims to build on Orwell Park’s strengths while preparing children for an ever-changing world. Creativity, communication,

“There is a warmth and authenticity to Orwell Park that is difficult to manufacture”

ALEX MCCULLOUGH

teamwork and resilience are becoming increasingly vital, and he is determined that pupils leave not only academically prepared but adaptable, curious and ready to embrace opportunity. Childhood is deeply nurtured at Orwell Park. The school’s breadth of opportunity – from ASPIRE activities to outdoor pursuits, music, drama and leadership – ensures children develop confidence, character and a genuine love of learning. “Prep schools occupy a unique place in education because they are able to nurture children academically while also helping them develop confidence, character and a genuine love of learning,” Alex notes. Years 6–8 are treated as a pivotal stage, with specialist teaching and leadership opportunities helping pupils develop independence and identity. By the time they leave, they are not simply ready for entrance exams – they are ready to thrive at some of the best senior schools in the UK. Pastoral care remains a defining strength. The new OrWellbeing Hub provides dedicated spaces for support, reflection and enrichment, ensuring every child feels known, valued and understood. Boarding continues to evolve too, with refurbishment underway to create contemporary, nurturing environments that foster independence and deep friendships. Looking ahead, Alex hopes to strengthen the sense of connection across pupils, staff and families. “Schools are at their strongest when everyone feels part of a shared journey,” he says. Visit their whole school open morning on Friday 2nd October. Register your interest at orwellpark.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ORWELL SCHOOL.indd 81

25/08/26 09:35

AD WOODBRIDGE SCHOOL.indd 82

25/08/26 09:35

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

SPACE TO

THRIVE Headteacher of Woodbridge School, Shona Norman, highlights the many reasons why they impressed during their recent ISI inspection

oodbridge School, including our Pre-Prep, Prep, Senior School, Sixth Form and Boarding, is a coeducational school for students aged 4 to 18, where confident, kind, proactive free-thinkers gain the confidence, knowledge and skills to become everything they are meant to be. Numerous areas of excellence across school life were highlighted in the exceptional report from our March 2026 ISI inspection, recognising that the values-driven culture of our school and its inner workings means that every child thrives through the support of our staff, governors, pastoral care, the curriculum, and our extensive co-curricular offering.

WOODBRIDGE SCHOOL PREP Children at our Prep School are encouraged to seek out adventure, rise to challenges and accept the value of mistakes, enjoying their own and others’ achievements. Our aim is to ensure children develop life-long skills and learning habits, with CLICK (Communication, Leadership, Initiative, Collaboration and Kindness) at the heart of everything we do.

SENIOR SCHOOL At our Senior School, students can expect to continue to develop exceptional

the university application process right up to and including results day. As our recent ISI inspection March 2026 recognised, we provide comprehensive university and apprenticeship guidance, and the majority of students progress to prestigious universities, some to Art or Drama schools. We also support students in researching and organising gap years. relationships with teachers, working together to take every opportunity to discover and nurture their own talents; supporting and encouraging them to become the best version of themselves today, and in the future.

SIXTH FORM, YEARS 12 AND 13 Offering a wide range of academic subjects for further study at A level, Sixth Form students receive the perfect balance of independence and support. Having celebrated record A level results for our students last year, including almost a third achieving ‘straight A’ grades, and more than half of grades scoring A*- A, we combine high academic success with co-curricular activities encouraging the development of skills, attributes and mindset essential for broader success in life. With our Head of UCAS offering forensic knowledge of different university courses, we provide support with academic references and all other elements of

BUS ROUTES AND BOARDING A little over three miles North from Martlesham Retail Park in Ipswich, located just off the A12, Woodbridge School offers a comprehensive system of bus routes reaching across Suffolk as well as Essex. For those living further afield, the school offers full and weekly boarding options.

VISIT WOODBRIDGE SCHOOL You can visit Woodbridge School at any time by appointment; our whole School Open Day takes place on Saturday 26th September where you can meet and talk to teachers, students and experience our community for yourselves. And for those looking to study A levels, please join us at our Sixth Form Open Evening on Tuesday 6th October where you can meet teachers, other students and even take taster lessons. Register your place for both events by visiting our website. woodbridgeschool.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WOODBRIDGE SCHOOL.indd 83

25/08/26 09:36

AD IPSWICH SCHOOL.indd 84

25/08/26 09:36

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

Real world V I E W

hoosing a school is one of those decisions where it is tempting to focus on what can be easily compared. Exam results, facilities, class sizes and inspection reports all have their place. But an Open Day offers something rather different: the opportunity to imagine the experiences, friendships and memories that could shape your child’s years at school, and long after they leave. The most useful Open Days are therefore less about seeing what a school has, and more about discovering what life there could offer your child. Look beyond the polished presentations and planned tours and notice the interactions taking place around you. How do pupils speak to one another? How comfortable are they talking to adults and visitors? Do teachers know their pupils as individuals; their interests and strengths, as well as where they might need encouragement? These small, sometimes unscripted moments can reveal far more about a school’s culture than any prospectus. Talking to pupils can be particularly illuminating. Rather than simply asking whether they enjoy school, ask what they have tried that they never expected to do, what they are proud of, or what they will remember most. The answers might involve a lesson, a concert, a match, a trip, a friendship or an unexpected opportunity. Together, they provide a much richer picture of what growing up within that school community might actually be like. It is also worth thinking beyond what already interests your child. Impressive facilities may catch the eye, but look at what pupils are actually doing with them. Are they being encouraged to experiment, ask questions, take on challenges and discover

What can you really learn from an Open Day? We visit Ipswich School to ﬁnd out

TALKING TO PUPILS CAN BE PARTICULARLY ILLUMINATING interests they might never have considered? And ask about ordinary days, not just exceptional ones. How are new pupils helped to settle in? What happens when something goes wrong? Are relationships warm and respectful? Do pupils seem comfortable being themselves while also having the confidence to stretch beyond what feels familiar? Perhaps the most valuable question is not simply, “Will my child be happy here?” but, “Who might they become here?” The right school should provide more than a good education. Over the years, it will be the setting for friendships, challenges, discoveries and experiences that help shape a young person’s confidence, character and ambitions for the future. An Open Day cannot tell you everything. But look beyond the obvious, and it can offer a glimpse of something much more important: not only the school your child might attend, but the future they might begin to create there. ipswich.school A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

IPSWICH SCHOOL.indd 85

25/08/26 09:36

ST CEEDS SCHOOL.indd 86

25/08/26 09:36

EDUCATION • CCF

DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP

As Framlingham College celebrates 125 years of Combined Cadet Force (CCF), it continues to see these activities as vital in helping pupils to develop life skills

esearch carried out by the University of Northampton in 2025 found that the presence of CCF in education institutions not only positively impacts pupils’ behaviour and learning, but also the school environment itself. Published in March 2025, the report found that areas such as enrichment, attendance, wellbeing, confidence, engagement, career aspirations and a sense of belonging were all enhanced in schools with CCF. Today, more than 500 schools across state and independent sectors have cadet units, with the CCF at Framlingham College just one of three CCFs in Suffolk to offer both Army and Air Cadets pathways. Now in its 125th year, the Framlingham College CCF is just as popular today and still plays a vital role in the life and traditions of the school, allowing pupils to develop key life skills in leadership, teamwork, resilience and respect. Year 12 pupil and CCF Sergeant, Hattie R, is among CCF’s greatest fans. “Here at Framlingham, joining the CCF is something everyone does between Year 9 and 11, but I chose to continue this into Sixth Form because I have genuinely grown to enjoy it. I recognise the opportunities it has afforded

me, many of which I would not be able to get anywhere else, and it has also allowed me to give back to the school community.” She sees multiple benefits beyond school life, too. “The CCF has offered me opportunities to work as part of a team, challenge myself, and develop leadership skills. It has helped me learn how to cope with pressure and adapt to whatever situations I am faced with.” This year, Hattie was appointed as one of the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets – the highest honour a cadet can achieve. “It feels like a real honour to be recognised as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet,” she says. “I’m incredibly excited and proud to represent both myself and my school while carrying out service and responsibility within the community. It is very rewarding to have my commitment to the CCF acknowledged.” Framlingham College’s CCF combines outdoor education alongside first-class military experience days. Activities include flying, shooting competitions, field days, and acts of remembrance. With team building, strategic planning and communication in the mix, the CCF allows every pupil to develop skills that are readily transferable to everyday life and future careers. Hattie notes that CCF develops the kind of skills and attributes that are invaluable. “It instils real leadership opportunities from an early age," she says. "CCF has helped me develop resilience, discipline, leadership – life skills which are essential for adulthood beyond school. It has taught me how to be a responsible and supportive leader who looks after everyone in the team.” She says she is proud of the journey undertaken thanks to CCF. “The structure and discipline provided by the CCF has helped prepare me for future challenges and responsibilities. Overall, my biggest achievement has been seeing my own personal development – becoming a stronger team member, developing leadership skills, showing long-term commitment and taking pride in the responsibility I have been given.” framlinghamcollege.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE.indd 87

25/08/26 09:36

“

My advice for those wanting to follow their passion for art is to experiment with your work. At Tonbridge inspiration is never far away and there is limitless opportunity to create. From Tonbridge to Oxford University, discover Ben’s journey into Fine Art.

AD NEW HALL SCHOOL.indd 88

25/08/26 09:36

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

BEST OF

Both Worlds Why Berkhamsted School offers parents the perfect balance

By XXXXXXXXX

very parent wants the right fit for their child, but independent schools often encourage an early choice. Will your child’s future school be small or large? Grounded in tradition or focused on the future? Co-educational or single sex? At Berkhamsted School, they’ve found the balance. They call it: “The best of both worlds.” Located around 40 minutes from Euston station by train, Berkhamsted is within reach of London while keeping a small-town feel. Their campuses sit across Berkhamsted’s scenic town centre, surrounded by acres of playing fields, woods and the historic canal. Distinct to Berkhamsted is their diamond structure, which lets your child experience co-educational and single-sex environments at stages suited to their development. At Pre Prep and Prep, girls and boys are mixed. For Year Groups 7 to 11 pupils attend single-sex sites for their academic studies, so staff can tailor wellbeing support, learning styles and opportunities to each gender. However, the two campuses will still mix through extracurricular opportunities, benefitting pupils socially. At Sixth Form, students reunite at the new Sixth Form block, in a building designed to mirror university or the workplace. Their structure is about stretching pupils in new ways throughout their education, so that they

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

don’t feel they outgrow the school, but rather that the school grows with them. Berkhamsted has the benefits of being a large school, but the diamond structure and multiple sites help it feel small. Individual campuses create close-knit communities where every pupil is known, while the wider school comes together often through society events, music concerts and sports fixtures. Ask a pupil where they go, and they won’t say Berkhamsted Boys, or Girls, or Sixth. They’ll say Berkhamsted School. Berkhamsted School honours the founding principles of their foundation in 1541 while keeping sight of what’s next. At the Castle campus, stained-glass chapel windows overlook the historic quad, while 100m away, the new Zaha Hadid Sixth Form offers sustainable, modern design shaped

around academic independence. Tradition guides their values, but innovation guides their teaching: their curriculum is researchbacked, and their constantly evolving education technology is award-winning. Pupils feel the best of both worlds on results day too. This year, 23% of A Levels were awarded top grade A*, but those results were built on strong character education, extracurricular opportunities and leadership programmes that run alongside academics. Pupils leave Berkhamsted with the grades to succeed, and the confidence, tenacity and happiness to make the most of them. To take a closer look at Berkhamsted’s Best of Both Worlds, book your place at the next open event at berkhamsted.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDIT.indd 89

25/08/26 09:36

AD WOODFORD GREEN PREP.indd 90

25/08/26 09:36

EDUCATION • NEWS

EDU CATION NEWS The latest from schools across the county

Look to the past

Brothers in arms New Hall School in Chelmsford is celebrating the achievement of siblings Leo Walsh, Year 8, and Henry Walsh, Year 10, from Nayland, who completed a remarkable 40-mile charity walk from Little Baddow to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) on Saturday 20 June. Their walk raised funds and awareness for Epilepsy Action and Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, following Leo’s epilepsy diagnosis, subsequent surgery and recovery. His life changed dramatically in December 2024, when he suffered his first tonicclonic seizure. After months of specialist care, Leo underwent brain surgery at GOSH on 13 December 2025 to remove a tumour. Leo and Henry, along with their parents, undertook the 40-mile charity walk in order to thank the organisations that had supported their family and to raise awareness of epilepsy. The family’s charity walk has so far raised £14,156, helping to ensure that other children continue to benefit from the lifechanging care, treatment and support provided by GOSH and Epilepsy Action. newhallschool.co.uk

Runwell Community Primary School in Wickford recently commemorated its 60th anniversary with an event for its school community that included the burial of a time capsule, a flower display, a community picnic, workshops and stalls, pupil performances, and more. The school, which opened its doors to the community in 1965, started the celebration with the burial of a time capsule, filled with contributions from each of the school’s classes for future generations to discover and study. The contents reflected the personality of its current cohort of pupils, the school’s ethos and the present world, including items such as photographs, paintings, t-shirts, squishes, fidget toys and memes. Charlotte Castle, Head of Runwell Community Primary School, said: “It was an absolute joy to see our incredible community walk through our lovely school grounds and celebrate our diamond anniversary together.” runwellprimary.co.uk

Walk this way Towards the end of term, pupils at Dame Bradbury’s Junior School celebrated their third annual walking bus event. The environmental initiative, which saw more than 50 pupils, parents, staff members, and dogs meet at a collective point and walk to the school together, was born from the Saffron Walden school’s Integrated Learning Week, a cross-curricular initiative where pupils across all age groups engage in collaborative, thematic projects on broader topics, such as the environment. After launching in 2023, the event proved so popular that it has become a much-anticipated annual event. Not only does it contribute to the school’s

commitment to promote active travel habits, but it also reinforces the positive benefits of exercise and connecting with others to support pupils’ wellbeing. Equipping its pupils with the skills and knowledge they need to become global citizens informs the school’s environmental initiatives, which have been recognised by the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award. damebradburys.com

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

EDUCATION NEWS.indd 91

25/08/26 09:37

AD BTMK.indd 92

25/08/26 09:37

PROPERTY

OLLARDS GROVE, LOUGHTON IG10 OFFERS IN EXCESS OF

£2,200,000

ffering living and entertaining spaces across three floors, this four bedroom home benefits from three bathrooms (two en-suites), plus additional WC, elegant reception rooms, study, utility, boot room, cinema room and open plan kitchen/diner, with air conditioning throughout. Externally, there is a landscaped garden, elevated patio, double garage and driveway.

DURDEN & HUNT

020 3026 0160 durdenandhunt.co.uk

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

PROPERTY OPENER.indd 93

25/08/26 09:37

T DURDEN & HUNT FOUNDERS ALEX DURDEN AND JAMES HUNT WITH THE DEPUTY MAYOR OF SOUTHEND COUNCILLOR ANNE JONES

Making

A MOVE Durden & Hunt celebrates its Leigh-on-Sea arrival with community spirit ﬁrmly at its heart

here is something particularly fitting about an estate agency marking its arrival in a new town by focusing on the people who already call it home. That was very much the spirit when Durden & Hunt officially opened its new Leigh-on-Sea branch, bringing together hundreds of residents, independent businesses and community partners for an afternoon that was as much local celebration as launch party. The new Broadway West office is the award-winning estate agency’s seventh branch, continuing an expansion across Essex and London that has gathered considerable pace over the past seven years. Its arrival was officially marked by the Deputy Mayor of Southend, Councillor Anne Jones, who joined founders James Hunt and Alex Durden for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. For the founders, Leigh-on-Sea has long been on the wish list – and not simply because of the strength of its property market. “Opening our Leigh-on-Sea branch marks another important milestone for Durden & Hunt,” says James. “Leigh has always been a location we wanted to be part of, not only because of its exceptional property market, but because of its strong sense of community.” It is a sentiment that goes some way to explaining why the launch was conceived as an event for the wider town rather than simply an opportunity to showcase a new office. “Our ambition has always been to create offices that become part of the places they serve,” James continues. “So seeing so many residents and local businesses

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

DURDEN AND HUNT.indd 94

25/08/26 09:37

PROPERTY • PARTNERSHIP

supporting our launch was a fantastic welcome and we’re excited to build lasting relationships across Leigh-on-Sea.” Those local relationships were already on display throughout the afternoon. Guests were treated to complimentary ice creams from Gemma’s of Leigh and coffees from Crystal Rock Co, alongside play vouchers from Mini & Me Play Cafe, refreshments, dog treats and balloons. Independent businesses from across Leigh also donated prizes to a charity raffle, ranging from restaurant and shopping vouchers to treatments, experiences and family attractions. At the heart of the fundraising was Leigh Lionesses FC, whose under-15s team is sponsored by Durden & Hunt. The raffle raised more than £500 for the grassroots football club, while the estate agency also pledged £10 for every property valuation booked during the launch event.

“We are incredibly thankful to Durden & Hunt for their support of Leigh Lionesses FC,” says club chairman Jody Rice. “Their sponsorship helps us provide valuable opportunities for our players and ensures they can continue to enjoy football, develop friendships and reach their full potential.” For Councillor Anne Jones, the partnership demonstrated exactly how a new business can establish meaningful roots within its community. During the afternoon she met residents, local business owners and representatives of Leigh Lionesses, while paying particular tribute to the role the young players had in the celebrations. “It was so wonderful to officially open the new branch of Durden & Hunt,” she says. “They are an organisation that are determined to be part of our thriving business community, but also recognise the wider role that business colleagues contribute.”

She adds that it was “so fulfilling” to witness the company’s support for a local girls’ football team, noting how the Lionesses had been promoted as “the real VIPs of the event”. That warm welcome was echoed by Leigh-on-Sea Branch Partner Andy Binnington. “The support we received from the local community and fellow businesses exceeded our expectations,” he says. “It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate the opening of our new branch while raising money for such a worthwhile local cause.” The branch itself has been designed to offer something a little different from the traditional estate agency environment. A full-size feature tree and illuminated property displays are among the distinctive touches, while the contemporary interior is intended to create a relaxed place for buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants to discuss their next move. From its Leigh base, the team will handle sales and lettings across Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Chalkwell, Rayleigh, Thorpe Bay, Hadleigh, Langdon Hills and surrounding areas, combining local knowledge with a personalised approach. Seven branches in seven years represents considerable growth for Durden & Hunt. But judging by its introduction to Leighon-Sea, the company is equally interested in putting down local roots – and becoming part of the community long after the opening-day balloons have disappeared. Durden & Hunt Leigh-on-Sea, 123-125 Broadway West, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 2BU 01702 411 461 leighonsea@durdenandhunt.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DURDEN AND HUNT.indd 95

25/08/26 09:37

That holiday feeling. Every day.

markilux pergola cubic

Visit us NOW!

More Info?

markilux Designer Awnings. Made in Germany. Innovative technology and highest quality, outstanding when it comes to relaxing outdoors. Create the most alluring shade in the world. markilux showroom at Business Design Centre London N1 0QH · 52 Upper Street · T: 020 7288 6810 · markilux.co.uk

AD HILL RESIDENTIAL.indd 96

25/08/26 09:37

PROPERTY • FOCUS

HERE AND RIGHT, A FIVE-BEDROOM HOME CLOSE TO LOUGHTON STATION, WHICH IS ON THE MARKET FOR AN ASKING PRICE OF £3,750,000

All change AT THE TOP

Felicity Walker from Savills Loughton discusses what a new prime minister could mean for the housing market

ousing markets tend to like stability. Unfortunately, the past ten years has provided little of this – with the UK churning through an unprecedented seven prime ministers. Another change in leadership will almost certainly mean the air of caution hanging over the housing market since late 2022 remains for the rest of 2026. Journalists, commentators and lobbyists alike have been quick to speculate about the economic direction new Prime Minister Andy Burnham could take. At the time of writing we still don’t know for sure what this will mean for the property market. But he does, for the moment, appear to have ruled out any reform of council tax and stamp duty – limiting the risk of rumour and conjecture in the run up to October’s budget.

time last year – demonstrating a robust performance in a challenging market. Although demand is undoubtedly more measured with buyers focused on value, realistically priced, wellmaintained homes continue to sell well. Over the summer we have also been asked to visit several houses with a view to launching a full marketing campaign in September, while the number of potential buyers registering an interest is also higher than we might expect for this time of year – suggesting we could be in for a busy autumn. Until buyers have greater clarity on the PM’s policy and tax environment, however, caution will persist. As a result, the market is expected to remain price sensitive, with recovery selective rather than uniform. For now, the strongest markets are likely to be those underpinned by needs-based demand, scarcity of stock and realistic pricing.

SENSITIVE MARKET Against this backdrop, buyers and sellers have understandably become more careful, which has translated into further price falls. However, activity has held up better than sentiment might suggest. Data from property market analysts TwentyCI shows that across the last quarter, net agreed sales were within 95% of last year’s levels for the whole market. For homes above £1 million, activity was at 94% of last year’s level. Areas with strong connectivity, good schools and established local demand have been the most resilient performers – pointing to a market where buyers are still engaged, but only where sellers are aligned on sensible pricing.

FOCUS ON VALUE Encouragingly, our Loughton office has been outperforming the national average, with sales agreed ahead of this

FELICITY WALKER

If you’re considering a move we’d be delighted to hear from you. Visit the Savills office at The Triangle, 1A Smarts Lane in Loughton or call 020 8498 6600 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SAVILLS.indd 97

25/08/26 09:37

LAST WORD • VENUE why everyone is talking about…

THE CHARLES

Garden

Country house weddings are all set to be reimagined at Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate

ew settings lend themselves to romance quite like the Essex countryside, and now one of the county’s bestknown country house hotels has unveiled a spectacular new space designed to make the most of it. Set within 110 acres of landscaped grounds, Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate has launched The Charles Garden, an elegant outdoor wedding venue that blends classic English garden style with contemporary luxury. Designed for couples looking to exchange vows beneath open skies, the beautifully landscaped half-acre garden can host ceremonies and celebrations for up to 180 guests, with fragrant jasmine arches, a sweeping central aisle and a dedicated terrace and bar creating an effortlessly stylish backdrop. As outdoor weddings continue to grow in popularity, the new space offers an experience that feels distinctly connected to nature without compromising on comfort. Newly planted trees, sculptural planting and secluded garden spaces surround the venue, while the estate’s grand country house provides an impressive setting for celebrations that can continue long into the evening. True to Down Hall’s reputation for refined hospitality, the culinary offering is every bit as considered as the setting itself. Couples can tailor their day with bespoke wedding breakfasts, relaxed evening feasts or the standout Woodland Table Wedding Brunch, an atmospheric alfresco dining experience centred around open-fire cooking and seasonal produce. It’s an approach that embraces the growing appetite for memorable food experiences while celebrating the best of the season. The Charles Garden is the latest chapter in an ambitious programme of investment

at Down Hall. Over the past two years, the hotel has benefited from around £3 million of enhancements, including refurbished bedrooms, upgraded public spaces, landscaped gardens and additional outdoor facilities, reinforcing its position as one of the East of England’s premier luxury destinations. Conveniently located on the EssexHertfordshire border, less than an hour from London and just 15 minutes from Stansted Airport, Down Hall continues to attract visitors looking for countryside tranquillity with easy access to the capital. Alongside its award-winning spa, two AA Rosette dining and impressive events spaces, The Charles Garden adds yet another reason to visit the historic estate. For couples dreaming of an elegant outdoor celebration, it promises a setting where every detail has been thoughtfully considered. From champagne toasts beneath summer skies to intimate garden ceremonies framed by fragrant blooms, The Charles Garden captures the timeless appeal of an English country house wedding while giving it a fresh, contemporary twist. downhall.co.uk

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

EVERYONE TALKING.indd 98

25/08/26 09:38

ESSEX IBC - FILLER POOKY.indd 99

25/08/26 09:38

ESSEX OBC - EMSON HAIG.indd 100

25/08/26 09:38