Country House Weddings has six handpicked wedding venues across the south of England. These stunning venues have been chosen for their picturesque settings, opulent interiors and extensive facilities. Each offers a range of hassle-free allinclusive wedding packages to suit all tastes & preferences.
Country House Weddings has six handpicked wedding venues across the south of England. These stunning venues have been chosen for their picturesque settings, opulent interiors and extensive facilities. Each offers a range of hassle-free allinclusive wedding packages to suit all tastes & preferences.
NEW COLLECTION
Inspired by our heritage, designed for the modern bedroom. The Iconic Collection features floating beds with unparalleled comfort and exclusive fabrics. Handmade in Sweden
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EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE
MAMA EDITOR
CARLY GLENDINNING
ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA
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MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER
CARMEN GRAHAM
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MARIANA SUZUKI
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GEMMA GRAY
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LETTER Editor’s
ABSOLUTELY’S November issue highlights
1
The feast Sky Mcalpine is choosing goose. As turkey fans, we're torn. Which do you prefer?
Moving seamlessly from Halloween into Christmas has become the norm. In the spirit of maintaining a decorated front garden
for as much of the year as possible, November 1st sees households all over London replacing their pumpkins and comedy cobwebs with twinkling lights and inflatable santas. At Absolutely, we embrace this spirit wholeheartedly and are firmly in the camp that believes Christmas starts in November. So this issue is filled with festive ideas, from decorating and hosting to gifting and feasting. We have been in search of the loveliest baubles, the finest fizz and the prettiest presents. You won't find us unprepared on the big day. Enjoy November.
PENDLE HARTE EDITOR
2
On the board
The best thing about winter? Board games. Who agrees?
5
4
Festive spirit If decorations go up in November, can we hang our stockings up now too? Only if they're Kit Kemp's.
Hung up Our favourite baubles this year are all food-themed. Think baguettes, olives and Sriracha.
3
Pretty packages
Absolutely's award for the best Christmas packaging goes to C.Atherley. No contest.
Wish LIST
BESPOKE APPEAL
Pearl Lowe's vintage-inspired dresses are handmade to order by local seamstressses in Somerset. With cuts designed to be fl attering and stylish, each dress comes in several lengths. pearllowe.co.uk
RED RED WINE
Celebrate the season in style with Moët & Chandon’s festive Limited Edition Blanc. With its striking ruby-red gi box and elegant festive bottle livery, it captures the true spirit of Christmas. £47 magestic.co.uk
RED VELVET
Aspiga's Victoria Dress iin viscose velvet has a luxe feel: the skirt moves beautifully, while the three-quarter length puff sleeves have double-layered frills. Perfect for party season. £250 aspiga.com
HOT LIPS
This cut glass trinket dish is a playful addition to any surface. Store your rings in it, or keep it on your desk for paperclips. £16 anthropologie.com
ON THE LASH
Not one but two mascaras come in Nars' glittering Christmas packaging - gi someone this Climax Duo Set and they'll be batting their lashes for months. narscosmetics.co.uk
PAIR OFF
Pairs is the luxury sock brand based in the Scottish highlands, who make beautifully so and durable socks in natural fabrics
- Alpaca, Merino, Bamboo, Mohair and Wool - in an evocative colour palette. pairs-socks.com
BRIGHT SHADE
Seeing red? Amelie's Follies in Battersea will have the perfect shade. Make an appointment and you'll come away with the best fitting underwear you've ever owned. ameliesfollies.co.uk
TIGHT FIT
The Perfect 10 is a limitededition capsule collection of ten tights, featuring two styles that have been exclusively designed by celebrity stylish Aimée Croysdill and eight of her hand-picked favourites from the new collection. Whether providing the fl awless base that pulls a look together or the dramatic fi nishing touch, Heist tights are central to her styling. heist-studios.com
JAM HOT
The Jam red dome fl oor lamp is a striking addition to modern interiors. Featuring a frosted glass dome atop a sleek, jam red base, this lamp delivers both bold style and functional elegance. £390 houseof.com
SILK CUT
In collaboration with supermodel and entrepreneur Lily Aldridge, Eberjey's limited-edition collection marries their signature Washable Silk with Lily's modern, sophisticated eye. Silk Lace Cami & Short Set, £245 eberjey.com
AT THE CUTTING EDGE OF PILATES
At Pilates Squared Kensington we step away from the large gym classes and allowed the client to have a Pilates workout that is personally tailored for them. From the super t, to pre and post natal, to injuries.. Classical or Dynamic, whatever your style. Private sessions to small group classes, we o er something for everyone.
PILATES SQUARED: Voted Pilates Studio of the Year by British Vogue and Best Pilates Studio UK by Prestige Magazine
TO BOOK YOUR FIRST SESSION, GO TO www.pilatessquared.co.uk or call us on 0207 244 9898
SPECIAL NEW CLIENT
AUTUMN OFFER: 2 sessions for the price of one
The Agenda
EVENTS NOT TO MISS IN LONDON
A Christmas Carol
21 NOVEMBER - 4 JANUARY, ALEXANDRA PALACE THEATRE
Frozen in time with beautifully preserved original features, the wonderfully atmospheric Alexandra Palace Theatre will be filled with Dickensian, spine-tingling special e ects. Prepare to be frightened and delighted in equal measure as you enter the supernatural Victorian world of Dickens' A Christmas Carol as conceived by Mark Gatiss.
alexandrapalace.com
THEATRE
Red
19 November - 10 January
CHICKENSHED THEATRE
In a winter forest, secrets stir - and something unexpected waits beyond the trees. Chickenshed presents a magical twist on Little Red Riding Hood. When Red and her siblings leave the city for their grandmother’s mountain home, they’re swept into adventure with spirits, legends, and surprises. Tickets from £10, for ages 5+years. chickenshed.org.uk
From 4 November
DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY
The first major UK exhibition dedicated to Anna Ancher (1859–1935), one the most important and innovative artists in Danish history, and one of the few women of her era to achieve widespread recognition for her work. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
THEATRE
MUSIC Baroque and Roll weekends
8&9, 22&23 November HANDEL HENDRIX HOUSE
Experience the vibrancy and intimacy of live music in this space during our weekend slots as musicians perform music by Handel and his contemporaries on the harpsichord, with other historical instruments and singers, followed by sounds of the 1960's in Jimi's bedroom when guitarists fill the rooms with blues.. handelhendrix.org
ART TO WATCH
Recommended by Lisa Baker
LES MISERABLES
ongoing
SONDHEIM THEATRE
Les Misérables is the longest running and one of the most popular musicals in the world.ts.
The show has been seen by over 150 million people worldwide in 55 countries, 452 cities, and has been translated into 22 languages. It has won over 270 major awards around the world, among which 5 Olivier Awards 8 Tony Awards and 5 Helpmann Awards. It has just celebrated its 40th year in London. lesmis.com
This Month’s Must See
Nordic Noir
ONGOING, BRITISH MUSEUM
Explore the macabre, melancholy and sometimes provocative themes that run through aspects of Nordic art. Nordic noir: works on paper from Edvard Munch to Mamma Andersson is the culmination of a fiveyear programme dedicated to building the British Museum's collection of postwar Nordic artwork. Showcasing one of the best collections of Nordic art outside the region, the exhibition aims to provide a welcome and stimulating insight into the distinctive art originating there. britishmuseum.org
F
rom 4 to 8 November, War Child’s annual Sound & Vision fundraising exhibition comes to Iconic Images Gallery. Kate Bush has invited 52 artists to respond to a lyric from her iconic 1985 anthem Running Up That Hill for an exhibition and auction pairing music and art to raise vital funds to support children caught in war zones around the world. The lyric inspiring the art: “If I only could, I’d make a deal with God” was chosen by Kate Bush herself. ‘All wars leave horrific scars– but it’s the children who su er the most in so many ways,’ says Bush. Peter Doig, Maggi Hambling CBE, Boo Saville, Shezad Dawood and Nick Grindrod are just some of the artists who have created original artworks, with bidding starting at just £100. Register via Givergy to bid online until 13 November. Sound & Vision is at Iconic Images Gallery, 16 Waterloo Place, SW1Y 4AR
In Asphaltos Phos, Nathaniel Rackowe’s debut solo show at Varvara Roza Galleries, the artist fuses bitumen and artificial light to explore the dynamics of urban space. Featuring new and past works, the exhibition reflects on cities in flux, drawing from Rackowe’s personal and global experiences. Industrial materials and fluorescent light transform familiar elements into uncanny, meditative forms. Influenced by Constructivism and science fiction, Rackowe creates spatial poems that invite viewers to reimagine the built environment. The exhibition coincides with his new outdoor light installation at the Southbank Centre’s Winter Light, expanding his exploration of light, space, and perception.
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
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WEST VILLAGE MARYLEBONE
On 12 November, Marylebone High Street will be pedestrinised for an evening of market stalls, Christmassy cra workshops and late-night shopping offers as the area's stylish Christmas lights are switched on by a yet-to-be named celebrity. marylebonevillage.com
SMART BUYS
O2 GREENWICH
Smart shoppers head to outlet shopping at the O2, where there's up to 70% off on over 60 brands including Adidas, Calvin Klein and Clarin's, plus lots more. Levi's has a great selection too. outletshoppingattheo2.co.uk
LIGHT
FANTASTIC
OXFORD STREET
The ultimate Christmas light display is of course Oxford Street, and this year it is teaming up with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity to raise vital funds to help make every moment matter this Christmas for seriously ill children. gosh.org/christmas
MARKET FORCE SPITALFIELDS
Spitalfi elds Market's stalls offer hidden gems and unique artisanal gi s, from jewellery to one-of-a-kind artwork. The area is home to over 90 independent traders offering contemporary and vintage fashion, music, jewellery and accessories. spitalfields.co.uk
STREET LIFE
CARNABY STREET
Carnaby Street’s festive atmosphere is home to new and established stores including Tala, Farm Rio, Charlotte Tilbury, GANNI, Adidas Originals, MAC, END., Astrid & Miyu, and Carhartt WIP, alongside independent concept boutiques. thisissoho.co.uk
de d ise ng dispatch
Inside the whimsical worlds of Wes Anderson: a fi rst look at his archive exhibition at the Design Museum
Aworld of pastel palettes, precise symmetry, and eccentric characters emerges at the Design Museum this month as it becomes the first venue in the UK to host a full retrospective of Wes Anderson’s cinematic universe.
Titled Wes Anderson: The Archives, the exhibition will showcase over 600 objects from the filmmaker’s private collection— many of which have never been seen by the public before. Among the treasures are
original costumes, stop-motion puppets, hand-painted props, storyboards, and even Anderson’s spiral-bound notebooks, filled with character ideas and scene sketches in his unmistakable handwriting.
Announced on 1 May (Anderson’s birthday), the exhibition marks a major collaboration between the Design Museum and la Cinémathèque française, where the show originally debuted earlier this year. The London iteration will be a reimagined and expanded version, adding more than
100 new items and shining a brighter spotlight on the intricate design process behind Anderson’s beloved films.
At the heart of Anderson’s work lies a deep a ection for the material. “Every single object in a Wes Anderson film is very personal to him,” explains Lucia Savi, Head of Curatorial and Interpretation at the Design Museum and co-curator of the exhibition. “They’re not simply props—they are fully formed pieces of art and design.” That philosophy is evident in the
WES ANDERSON. COPYRIGHT SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES. PHOTO/ CHARLIE GRAY
Photograph by Stuart Wood
centrepiece of the exhibition: the monumental, candy-pink model of the Grand Budapest Hotel’s façade, which spans over three metres in width. Used in the 2014 film to depict the fictional European hotel, the model embodies the director’s commitment to hand-built cinematic worlds—constructed with as much care as the characters who inhabit them.
Other highlights include the vending machines from Asteroid City (2023), Gwyneth Paltrow’s iconic FENDI fur coat from The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), and the vibrantly costumed stop-motion puppets of fantastical sea creatures from The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004).
And yes, Boy with Apple will be there too—the “priceless” Renaissance-style portrait that fuels the plot of The Grand Budapest Hotel. Commissioned from British artist Michael Taylor for the film, it’s a winking nod to Anderson’s talent for worldbuilding down to the last ornate frame.
Spanning three decades of filmmaking, the exhibition follows a broadly chronological journey through Anderson’s career, from his early days directing Bottle Rocket—the 1996 feature that launched a long-standing creative partnership with Owen Wilson— to his recent Oscar-winning short, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023).
Visitors will be treated to a rare screening of Anderson’s original 14-minute Bottle Rocket short, created in 1993, and can trace the evolution of his visual language through concept art, polaroids, and meticulously preserved ephemera.
Anderson, it turns out, is something of an archivist himself. Following the production of Bottle Rocket, he discovered that everything had been sold o by the studio. From Rushmore onward, he began personally salvaging props, costumes, and design pieces from each film—building what is now a vast archive of cinematic memory.
“A candy-pink model of the Grand Budapest Hotel’s façade spans over three metres in width”
“The show highlights the analog heart of Anderson’s work”
While Anderson is rightly celebrated for his singular visual style, Wes Anderson: The Archives also gives due credit to the many creative collaborators who help bring his visions to life. From Oscar-winning costume designer Milena Canonero to puppet-maker Andy Gent and composer Alexandre Desplat, the exhibition includes works by a veritable ensemble of Anderson’s behind-the-scenes cast.
Full costumes from Rushmore, The French Dispatch, and The Life Aquatic are featured, as are the head-to-toe looks of recurring Anderson muses like Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, and Scarlett Johansson. The exhibition’s sections on Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) and Isle of Dogs (2018) dive deep into the craft of stop-motion animation, with original puppets, miniature sets, and maquettes giving a behind-thescenes look at the painstaking process of animating Anderson’s most tactile films.
“The show really highlights the handmade, analog heart of Anderson’s work,” says Johanna Agerman Ross, Chief Curator at the Design Museum. “In an age of CGI and green screens, Wes’s use of real objects— real textures—feels like a quiet rebellion.”
Wes Anderson: The Archives is not just a film exhibition—it’s a design showcase. Anderson’s films are an exercise in worldbuilding through objects: ornate luggage, record players, typewriters, badges, books, tents, paintings, and cakes all help to create immersive, rule-bound worlds governed by their own sense of time and place. This exhibition doesn’t just pull back the curtain on those objects—it invites visitors to step inside them.
21 November - 26 July 2026 designmuseum.org
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RIVER SIDE
GLIDE, BATTERSEA
London’s only riverside ice rink, Boots Presents Glide at Battersea Power Station, returns with London’s first ever scenic ice-skating trail. 7 November to 4 January. glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk
HOUSE STYLE
THE QUEEN'S ICE RINK
Set against The Queen’s House in Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this open-air rink offers a skating experience unlike any other. 21 November to 4 January. thequeenshouseicerink.com
COURTLY LOVE HAMPTON COURT PALACE
For over 20 years, skating at Hampton Court Palace has been a highlight of the festive season. This year there are live ice sculpting displays, DJ sets and Santa on Ice too. 21 November to 4 January. hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk
PARK LIFE
WINTER WONDERLAND
Don’t miss the UK's largest open-air Ice Rink set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around Hyde Park's iconic Victorian bandstand and next to the 70m Giant Wheel. 14 November to 1 January. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
CITY LIGHTS SKATE, SOMERSET HOUSE
Somerset House transforms into a scene from a Christmas movie; visitors glide across the ice, enjoy drinks by the rink and shop for one-of-a-kind gi s. 12 November to 11 January. somersethouse.org.uk
WHAT A PANTOMIME
Corny jokes, fairytale favourites and a wall of noise from the audience –pantomime plays for belly laughs, and don't say it isn't drama
Words LIBBY NORMAN
CLIVE ROWE IN DICK WHITTINGTON, THE 2024 PANTO AT HACKNEY EMPIRE.
PHOTO: PEROU
Up and down the country, wigs are being sculpted, giant sateen skirts stitched, crowns and wands polished, while scripts are written and refined. Panto season is approaching – mainstay for regional theatres, still a hot ticket in London, and treasured by audiences who return year after year.
But try and explain pantomime to anyone not familiar with its traditions and you'll struggle. The cross-dressing, the jokes on repeat, the line-up of fairytale characters mixing old plots with topical jokes. I mention this to Clive Rowe, Olivier Award winner, and a panto legend (greatest of all modern dames, many say). I suggest that panto is a bit weird. He thinks weird is a strong word – the wrong word.
"It may be a little bit peculiar to the UK," he concedes. He's right there, for
panto is a largely homegrown tradition. The roots, most histories tell you, are in Italy's commedia dell'arte, although you don't have to be a theatre historian to spot echoes in Shakespeare's comedies – or go further back to the Lord of Misrule, mummers and even mystery plays. Clive Rowe sees that historical mash-up, but says panto has its own distinct identity. "The vital components are comedy, good music, good dancing – entertainment for families, from the youngest to the oldest."
Rowe is returning to Hackney Empire – one of the capital's biggest hitters in panto productions. A familiar lead character there over many years, this time he's in the director's chair for Cinderella, featuring well-known talent and up-and-comers supported by the theatre's creative development programmes. It's already selling out. Andrew Pollard is another celebrated pantomime dame, and also an in-demand
writer and director – hugely experienced in panto creation. He presided over the well-loved pantomime at Greenwich Theatre for 15 years. Now he's back for his second year as writer and director of the King's Head Theatre panto up in Islington, after his smash hit last year. Second time around, he's delivering Jack and the Beanstalk. Once he's steered that to the stage, he will don his wig and head north to be Dame Madeline Marzipan in the Victoria Theatre, Halifax's production of Beauty and the Beast. For that show, he has just a week's rehearsal time. Like Clive Rowe, he is a huge believer in panto power – its ability to entertain everyone. "I think it's a combination of the fairy stories, which kind of live in our DNA," he says. "But the appeal of the panto is that we do this in its most simplistic form." In other words, with pantomime, you know where you are – goodies meet baddies, and good always overcomes evil. "Not only are the stories in our DNA,
DICK WHITTINGTON, HACKNEY EMPIRE, 2024.
PHOTO: MARK SENIOR
“IT'S AS DIFFICULT TO DO PANTOMIME AS IT IS DOING OTHER FORMS OF THEATRE – AND IF PEOPLE SAY IT ISN'T, THEY'RE NOT DOING IT PROPERLY”
but nowadays panto is too. Grandparents will take their grandchildren or parents will take their children because they were taken to panto, too. For some people it's a Christmas ritual." Such was the importance of that ritual at Greenwich that some families returned each year, not only on the same date but also booking the same seats. "By the time I'd finished there, those children were adults. And it was a great pressure to be better every year."
Clive Rowe also feels that responsibility to exceed expectations. He says it's all about staying true to the storyline and ensuring everyone in that audience gets included. "I do pantomimes that appeal to the whole family, to all the generations, so the kids have as much fun as the adults."
He and his team of creatives, including writer Will Brenton, refine and sharpen constantly during the intensive rehearsal period. "When you are in the rehearsal room you just try and make it as funny
CINDERELLA, KING'S HEAD THEATRE, 2024. PHOTO: CHARLIE FLINT
CLIVE ROWE, 2024
PHOTO: MARK SENIOR
as possible, have as much fun as you possibly can," he says. "The best comedy routines are rehearsed again and again and again. Great comedy is well rehearsed."
Most of the time, Will Brenton gets the jokes spot on, adds Rowe, but you can never be sure until show time. "I don't know what the formula is, I just know that sometimes they make me laugh out loud, and sometimes I know that even if I don't get them the kids will get them or the adults will get them," he says. "The audience is the last 25% – and the cast work o the audience."
That is the thing about panto – it is so interactive and so dependent on the night (or day, for it's a punishing schedule) that cast and creatives always think on their feet and bounce o the audience response.
"It's a skill, and it's as di cult to do pantomime as it is doing other forms of theatre," says Clive Rowe. "And if people say it isn't, they're not doing it properly."
Events can change dynamics, even scripts. Andrew Pollard says a new earworm hit song that comes out shortly before the show may get swapped in to please younger members of the audience. Scripts get adapted when that clever word play you spent ages working on doesn't get close to the same roar of laughter as the throwaway line about, say, an errant
“WITH PANTOMIME, THE AUDIENCE IS THE LAST 25% – AND THE CAST WORK OFF THE AUDIENCE”
HACKNEY EMPIRE'S DICK WHITTINGTON, 2024.
PHOTOS: MARK SENIOR
Discover Amersham is Festive Season
Just 40 minutes from London, Amersham blends historic charm with modern delights — a perfect winter escape in the heart of the Chiltern Hills. Stroll cobbled streets, explore independent boutiques, and unwind in cosy cafés. From artisan gifts to gourmet treats, Amersham o ers a unique festive shopping experience wrapped in seasonal sparkle.
FESTIVE HIGHLIGHTS NOT TO MISS
is season, Amersham transforms into a winter wonderland lled with music, lights & joy for all ages.
Amersham Christmas Festival
Friday 29 November | Amersham-on-the-Hill
Live music, market stalls, Christmas lights, and Santa’s Grottoa magical start to the season.
Old Amersham Christmas Festival
Friday 5 December | Old Town
Meet Father Christmas & his reindeer, enjoy the Rock Choir & Amersham Band, a vintage funfair, and carols by the tree.
Eat, shop & be merry - Relax in award-winning restaurants, cosy pubs, and independent cafés. Enjoy mulled wine by the re and savour the warmth of this picturesque market town.
Your perfect festive getaway - Easily reached by the Metropolitan Line or a scenic drive, Amersham is your countryside retreat this Christmas. Trade the city rush for twinkling lights, warm welcomes & magical memories.
“YOU GET LETTERS IF YOU DON'T PUT IN TERRIBLE, CORNY OLD JOKES – LIKE THE 'BEHIND YOU' ROUTINE”
politician. "That's always the joy of panto," he adds. "It is live as well, and unlike being in a straight play you can play on it if something goes wrong. You can share it with the audience. I love that."
Audiences have strong expectations around familiarity, though. Over all those years writing the panto for Greenwich Theatre, Andrew Pollard used to try and lose some classic lines, thinking new audiences might be tired of the old faithfuls. "But you get letters if you don't put in terrible, corny old jokes. Like the 'behind you' routine – at Greenwich I'd try and do it once every other year and people would say, 'oh, where was the ghost gag?'."
Familiar stories, old jokes and lavish costumes are woven through the DNA, but pantomime must also have children in the mix. They are the best audience. Andrew Pollard recalls, still with glee, a matinee where a particularly fierce teacher stood up, just before curtain-up, and ordered her excited class to: 'sit down, be quiet and say nothing'. This was too much. "When I came on as Dame I said: 'So what your teacher just said, ignore all that – I want you to shout out and have a good time'," he says. "That's what the kids want. They can let o steam. They participate in the telling of the story."
Clive Rowe agrees that nothing beats the atmosphere of stepping out in front of a very young crowd. "It's fantastic, it's absolutely wonderful. It's like a wall of sound." So, whatever we adults think pantomime is, children definitely get it. Long may that wall of sound continue.
Cinderella ,directed by Clive Rowe, is at Hackney Empire from 22 November-31 December. From £10. hackneyempire.co.uk
Jack and the Beanstalk , written and directed by Andrew Pollard, is at King's Head Theatre from 23 November-4 January. From £10. kingsheadtheatre.com
KING'S HEAD THEATRE'S CINDERELLA, 2024. PHOTOS: CHARLIE FLINT
HACKNEY EMPIRE, 2024. PHOTO: MARK SENIOR
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Nutcracker IN HAVANA
A Cuban twist on a ballet classic
By DIANE PARKES
D“The only Nutcracker where the corps de ballet becomes a conga line”
Carlos says. “This is not going to be a European feel where you are in a Victorian mansion and everything is period, this is much more Cuba.”
The Nutcracker is set amid a family party on Christmas Eve – yet as a child growing up in Havana Carlos was unable to take part in such festivities. “I wanted to give the Cuban people the Christmas they never had,” says Carlos. “We started to celebrate Christmas after Pope John Paul II came to the island in 1998, because before that Christmas was banned.”
ance superstar Carlos Acosta’s production Nutcracker in Havana takes the ever-popular festive ballet and moves the story to the Cuban capital. A celebration of joy, life, love and family, the show takes the Tchaikovsky classic and gives it a new spin.
Performed by more than 20 dancers from Acosta’s Havana-based company Acosta Danza, the production retains the classic story of a young girl transported to a magic world, while incorporating the culture, history and music of Carlos’ home country of Cuba.
A world-renowned dancer who has performed with companies across the globe including 17 years with The Royal Ballet, Carlos has choreographed previous productions including Carmen and Don Quixote and felt The Nutcracker was ideal for re-invention.
“I have performed so many versions of The Nutcracker and I think that putting it in Havana creates a production which is totally di erent from any other production out there,”
The ballet also has new orchestration of the classic Tchaikovsky score by Cuban composer Pepe Gavilondo. “When we started to work on the show, I started to play in my mind that we could rework the score to incorporate Cuban rhythms,” explains Carlos. “That was going to be a significant change because the audience will hear Nutcracker and Tchaikovsky in a completely di erent light with conga rhythms, guaracha, son - the music of Havana.”
At its heart it is The Nutcracker story that you can expect with all of the magic and joy that goes with that. It is balletic at its core and it’s pushing the boundaries of ballet by bringing that Cuban feel into it. And it's the only Nutcracker where the corps de ballet becomes a conga line. It has a sense of fun and it’s also a spectacle – and theatre needs spectacle.
It's an intensely personal show to Carlos and a special moment for somebody whose career has been so ensconced in ballet and who has danced so many Nutcrackers in his life. With him coming from Cuba there is real heart to this show.
Nutcracker in Havana plays at Richmond 18-22 November; atgtickets.com/richmond
SAN CARLO
This
WHAT TO DRINK GRAPE news
Wine recommendations for the month
By THE WINE SOCIETY
The Society's Exhibition Cap Classique 2023
£12.95
Simonsig are the creators of South Africa's answer to Champagne, Method Cap Classique, where the Champagne grapes of chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier create this wonderfully refreshing, complex, and generous traditional method sparkling wine.
JM Brocard, Bourgogne Chardonnay 2024
£13.50
This is a 'baby Chablis' in all but name, a bright, taut, unoaked wine with a mineral, firm and fresh palate. Made by The Wine Society's main Chablis producer, from vineyards just 2km outside the Chablis Appelation Contrôlée.
Fleurie Les Douzes Perles Vielles Vignes 2018
£14.95
From 70-year-old vines, this mature Fleurie shows soft plum and dried red berries with a hint of cinnamon spice. Savoury and supple but still with energy and freshness, this has impressive character for the price.
Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.
The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers. Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com
TASTING
London’s food news and most exciting openings this month
By PENDLE HARTE
Winter warmer
BRIGADIERS
The Outpost is a new winter terrace at Brigadiers in the City, o ering covered and heated seating as the perfect cosy haven to dine al fresco during the winter months. A new winter drinks menu has launched designed to complement the bold flavours of Brigadiers’ signature Indian barbecue dishes. Menu highlights include The Masala Mulled Wine, a blend of red wine and warming spices, and Indian Co ee, made with Amrut Fusion, and Masala-spiced chai cream.
brigadierslondon.com
Listen up
JUNSEI
A new look for Junsei transforms the yakitori restaurant into a listening bar based on Tokyo’s izakayas. Natural textures and colours are accentuated with pieces from local tattoo artist Ant The Elder. Turntables mark the entrance, followed by shelves piled high with vinyl records. junsei.co.uk
Thai treat
PLATAPIAN
Just opened on Greek Street is Platapian, a new venture from restaurateur Nam Parama Raiva bringing Thai culinary heritage and forgotten family recipes to Soho. The menu draws on diverse regional influences of both Northern and Southern Thailand. pataralondon.com
CARLUCCIO'S
This new panettone is wonderfully light, moist and fragrant with an unmistakeable aroma, laced with Marostica cherries for sweetness and tart cranberries. Panettone Ciliegia di Marostica, £24.95. carluccios.com
LINA STORES
This traditional panettone with raisins and orange peel follows an original Milanese recipes and comes in an elegant Lina Stores box. Traditional panettone, £27.95 linastores.co.uk
VERGANI
This festive sweet bread follows a traditional recipe but is elevated by the inclusion of vibrant, aromatic citrus fruits sourced from sundrenched Sicily. Vergani Sicily Panettone, £24.95 lemonsalt.co.uk
GOOD BAKES
GAILS
Rooted in Britain’s fields and orchards, Gail's new autumn menu arriving combines hyper seasonal recipes, autumnal favourites, and much-loved returns. We can't get enough of these cheese and leek brioche bun, pillowy brioche filled with cheddar bechamel and melt-in-the-mouth braised leeks, topped with grated ricotta salata, inspired by the French classic Poireaux au Gratin. gails.com
Godet on Essex Road is London's only wine pub, featuring a weekly evolving wine list predominantly featuring French wine, drawing on Owner Sylvain’s heritage. Wine lovers are treated to tastings and exclusive ‘meet the winemaker’ events, and Godet’s kitchen is host to a roster of talented and diverse guest chefs. Beloved Chinese and pan-Asian kitchen, Ling Ling’s has just kicked o a year-long residency –don't miss the wontons. godetlondon.com
GODET
Italian indulgence
Celebrate the magic of Christmas at San Carlo
There’s something timeless about gathering with friends, family, or colleagues during the festive season – the laughter, the sparkle of glassware, the comforting hum of conversation. At San Carlo, Christmas isn’t just a meal. It’s an occasion to savour – a celebration of warmth, Italian elegance, and indulgent joy. Whatever festive gathering you’re planning, celebrate the magic of Christmas with San Carlo. From long lunches to evening dinners, intimate family occasions
to glittering parties, San Carlo provides the setting, the service, and the sparkle. Expect the famous San Carlo atmosphere, flamboyant service, and their most luxurious festive menu to date – all designed to make this Christmas truly unforgettable. As you step inside, the buzz of conversation mingles with the scent of fresh herbs, garlic, and baking bread. The tables glimmer beneath soft lighting, glasses catch the glow of flickering candles, and every detail whispers of celebration. Whether you’re toasting the season or simply escaping the winter chill, San Carlo sets the stage for moments that feel e ortlessly special.
"At San Carlo, Christmas is an occasion to savour, a celebration of warmth and indulgent joy"
A MENU MADE FOR CELEBRATION
This year’s Christmas Fayre menu, available for lunch or dinner at just £59.95 per person, showcases the very best of Italian dining with a festive flourish. It’s a feast of flavour and craftsmanship – where every course feels like a small celebration in itself. Begin with an array of antipasti designed to delight. There’s Gamberoni Luciana –king prawns sautéed in garlic, chilli, and tomato, finished with a touch of cream – or Mozzarella in Carrozza, golden-fried and perfectly crisp, served with a fragrant basil and tomato sauce. Those who love something earthy and indulgent will find Crostone Funghi e Tartufo irresistible, with tru ed mushrooms and Grana Padano atop toasted Altamura bread.
For your main course, the choice is as varied as it is luxurious. Enjoy Branzino – pan-fried sea bass in lime sauce – or Tacchino con Ripieno di Castagne, tender turkey breast with chestnut stu ng and pancetta-wrapped chipolatas, capturing the essence of a classic Christmas roast with Italian flair. There’s also Suprema di Pollo Principessa with mushrooms and asparagus, Salmone Prosecco e Gamberetti served in a Prosecco and prawn sauce, or rich Tagliatelle Porcini with chestnut pasta, porcini mushrooms, and black tru e.
And for those who prefer a little indulgence, Medaglioni al Pepe – fillet steak medallions in green peppercorn sauce – o ers an elegant touch of decadence, the perfect centrepiece for a festive feast. Every dish is served with seasonal vegetables and rosemary potatoes, bringing warmth, colour, and balance to the table.
Dessert is where San Carlo truly shines. The Panettone Bread & Butter Pudding with limoncello and vanilla ice cream o ers comfort with a citrus twist. For chocolate lovers, the Ferrero Rocher Cake – layers of chocolate and hazelnut mousse wrapped in praline – is pure indulgence. Or perhaps the Tiramisu and Panna Cotta ai Frutti di Bosco, with their classic Italian flavours, are the perfect finale. Vegan desserts are also available, ensuring everyone can end their meal on a sweet note.
WHY SAN CARLO IS THE PLACE TO CELEBRATE
San Carlo has always been about more than food. It’s about experience – the kind of experience that makes an ordinary evening feel like an event. During the festive season, that magic multiplies.
The atmosphere is unmistakably Italian – vibrant, stylish, yet welcoming. It’s where you can enjoy a glass of fizz before dinner, linger over espresso after dessert, and feel part of something joyful from the moment you arrive. Service is as polished as it is personal, delivered with that signature San Carlo flair: attentive, generous, and always a little bit theatrical.
Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two, a lively lunch with friends, or a company celebration, San Carlo’s team knows how to make each occasion feel e ortless. Every detail is considered, every guest is made to feel special, and every visit feels like a celebration.
And for those who appreciate great value as much as great taste, the Christmas Fayre menu strikes a perfect balance. At £59.95 per person, it o ers refined, multi-course dining crafted from premium ingredients – an indulgent experience that still feels accessible, with something for every palate and every pocket.
THE SPIRIT OF ITALIAN HOSPITALITY
What makes San Carlo unique at Christmas isn’t just the food or the festive décor – it’s the spirit. This is a family-led collection of
restaurants, founded by Chairman Carlo Distefano and led by his son, CEO Marcello Distefano. Together, they’ve built a legacy of Italian hospitality that blends authenticity with sophistication. Each restaurant reflects that ethos: a place where quality, care, and conviviality come together beautifully. It’s that mix of energy and elegance – of polished service and heartfelt warmth – that transforms a San Carlo meal into a true celebration.
MAKE
IT A SAN CARLO CHRISTMAS
Planning your celebration couldn’t be easier. Whether it’s a table for two or a larger group booking, San Carlo’s team will tailor your experience to perfection. From festive lunches to glamorous dinners, dietary requests to décor details, everything is handled with style and ease.
Gather your family, your colleagues, your oldest friends – the ones you’ve been meaning to see all year. Dress up, raise a glass, and let San Carlo take care of the rest. Because the best memories of the season are made around a table filled with laughter, warmth, and exquisite food.
This Christmas, celebrate in true Italian style. Celebrate with San Carlo – where every guest is family, every dish is a gift, and every moment is made to shine.
SAN CARLO
6 Hans Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1RX Book now at sancarlo.co.uk
Where have you BEAN?
Absolutely chats to Amelia Christie-Miller about reinventing the bean
By PENDLE HARTE
Have you had a conversation about those beans? The ones in the glass jars? At some point over the past couple of years, I was not alone in becoming aware of a better brand of bean being sold in the supermarket. Probably the algorithm had suggested it for my online shop, and then a friend mentioned the delicious new chickpeas she’d bought, and gradually a fully formed awareness came into my brain and I stopped buying tinned pulses and legumes. The Bold Bean Company is one of those success stories that seem so obvious but also so small. Because really, who gets excited about beans? Turns out, quite a lot of people and especially Amelia Christie-Miller, who is the 31 yearold founder of The Bold Bean Company. Her distinctive jars of chickpeas, butterbeans, black beans and more are now supermarket staples, though two years ago they were exclusively a Waitrose o ering, and four years ago they didn’t exist. Since starting out in 2021, she has rebranded the humble bean into a significant business, appeared on Dragon’s Den, and published her second cookbook focusing, naturally, on beans. Today, Amelia lives in Barcelona, and tells
me how her bean journey started 10 years ago, also in Spain. “As an Erasmus student in Madrid aged 21, I was hungover one day and all I had in my cupboard was a jar of beautiful butter beans that I’d bought because Nigel Slater had written about them. I ate them straight from the jar and it blew my mind how delicious a bean could be.” In Spain, jarred butter beans are the norm, and they’re a world away from the tins commonly sold here, where about 60p will buy you a dusty portion of woody and relatively tasteless pulses. This was Amelia’s epiphany: the flavour, texture and pure joy of those beans were a discovery that would later lead her to recreate them for the UK market.
Later, when she became a private chef and moved into the field of food sustainability where concerns about soil health, food security and the need to reduce meat were paramount, she began to see beans in their sustainability context. “I became a bean fanatic. Beans are honestly the world’s best food,” she says. “They take nitrogen from the air and put it in the soil; they’re a natural fertiliser, and the diversity of beans is brilliant for food security.” She’s not vegan – she loves all food, but reducing meat consumption is a concern, and fake meat products just don’t appeal to her. Beans and pulses are satisfying and they taste delicious, so it makes sense to focus on
“It blew my mind how delicious a bean could be”
them as sources of protein, she believes. So she began a quest to make people share her love of them, researching the methods of cooking and conserving that are common in Spain. “I knew the process was really key,” she says. “And I wanted to launch a brand, so I thought I could bring great beans to the UK”. The main di erence between her jarred beans and the usual supermarket tins is time. “We soak them, then discard that liquor. Then we scald them in hot water to remove the skin (that helps people with IBS, who often find they can eat our beans without any problems) and then we cook them long and slow. So the cost of that is reflected in the price.” Of course, they are selective with the beans they start with too. “We choose based on texture and mouth feel; we have our own sourcing criteria. It’s a fascinating process compared to a tin factory where everything is done for speed and e ciency rather than flavour.”
Then came Dragon’s Den. Amelia took her Bold Bean brand to Dragon’s Den when it was first stocked in Waitrose, but by the
time the show aired last year, the beans were in all supermarkets. “First of all we got a lot of funny faces, then the Dragons tasted them and loved them and I accepted an o er from Deborah Meaden.” She can’t talk about what happened after that because of an NDA –but she hints that we might find out soon. Now the range spans 12 products including three flavours of baked beans (“we thought there was a gap in the market for luxe baked beans”). The fabulous Queen Chickpeas are the bestseller, followed by the butterbeans, and a recent collaboration with Ottolengi on a jar of black chickpeas was a coup for the brand. “That was an incredible milestone. Our goal is to bring more people to beans, to get people to reconsider beans. We want to be known as the bean people,” she says. Central to the core idea is a dialogue with customers, who might not know what to do with beans. There’s a website full of recipes and two cookbooks filled with ideas, all arranged by bean. “We have a relationship with consumers that goes beyond just selling to them,” she says. Living in Spain to be closer to the beans (most of them are grown and processed in Spain), Amelia has lots of ideas for the future. Bold Bean is set to launch in the Netherlands next year, and from there, who knows? Beans are certainly the future.
CELEBRATE THE FESTIVE PERIOD WITH US!
Whatever festive gathering you’re planning, celebrate the magic of Christmas with us. Enjoy the famous San Carlo atmosphere & flamboyant service, and induldge in our most luxurious menu to date.
Italian FEASTING
Warming winter favourites at Scalini London
Scalini London is an iconic Italian restaurant in the heart of Chelsea with more than 35 years of history and culinary heritage.
With an emphasis on tradition, quality and exclusivity, yet with an inclusive warm welcome and ‘family’ feel, Scalini London is loved by regular clientele and international visitors all year round.
During the winter months, Scalini really comes into its own as the home of traditional Italian feasting and festive celebrations on Walton Street. With over three decades of ‘ospitalità italiana’ under our belts, the relaxed Italian way of enjoying good food and wine with friends and family is perfectly suited to the intimacy of Scalini.
Restaurant manager Massimo has been greeting local clientele ever since we opened our doors in 1988 and we count many of our guests and their families as our very good friends.
Italian cuisine has always been underpinned by quality, seasonality and regional produce. For the chefs at Scalini, authentic, tasty and varied menus rely heavily on market fresh ingredients
sourced from all across Italy and locally. Executive Chef Paulino Alves, a fixture in the Scalini kitchens for over 30 years, thrives on preparing dishes with this traditional approach at its heart.
The menu at this time of year stays resolutely Italian, bolstered by seasonal ingredients such as Tagliolini with tru e cream and fresh shaved black tru e and warming winter favourites such as Ossobuco, a traditional Lombardy slow cooked veal stew with fresh herbs. Seafood is always popular with signature dish
Spaghetti all’ Astice – a generous portion of premium lobster in a delicious, spiced tomato sauce always on the menu.
And who could forget the wine list, a treasure trove of Italian quality, rarity and taste, packed with big reds, sophisticated whites and chilled bubbles perfect for the big occasions.
Spritzes are also a speciality and perfect for relaxed aperitivo pre dinner.
Dine in the main restaurant for parties up to ten, or for larger groups and complete privacy, reserve our spacious private dining room and bar on the first floor, ideal for Christmas parties and events for up to 26 people seated.
Feast with Scalini this winter and enjoy the perfect combination of friends, family, exceptional food and wine in the heart of Chelsea.
To book a table or to hold a private dinner, party or celebration at Scalini, please contact info@scalinilondon.co.uk or call 020 7225 2301. Tables can also be booked at scalinilondon.co.uk
Open 12 noon - 10.45pm Tuesday-Sunday
Open Daily in December. Closed 24 & 25 December.
beans
Bold ideas for pulses and legumes from Amelia
Christie-Miller
Black bean makhani with kachumber salad
Serves 4
Takes 30 minutes
A makhani (originally a Punjabi word for butter) simply OOZES comfort. Here, Bold Bean contributor Raina Patel replaces lentils with black beans to create a delicious veggie makhani that’s packed with flavour. She says: ‘This recipe is my tribute to my grandma – cosy, comforting flavours from my childhood with a little twist.’
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tbsp neutral oil, such as sunflower or rapeseed oil
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed or finely grated thumbsized piece of fresh ginger, finely grated
• 1 chilli, finely chopped / ½ tsp
• cayenne pepper, to taste
• 3 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 150ml (5fl oz/¼ pint) passata / 2 large tomatoes, blitzed in a blender
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 570g (1lb 4½oz) jarred black beans, with their bean stock
• 100ml (3½fl oz) double cream or Greek yoghurt
• pinch of white sugar (optional)
• juice of 2 limes, plus wedges to serve
• salt
• Greek or coconut yoghurt, to serve For the kachumber salad
• ½ cucumber, diced
• 2 vine or cherry tomatoes, diced
• ½ red onion, very finely chopped
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• pinch of chilli powder
• small handful of mint or coriander
METHOD
1 1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Tip in the onion with a pinch of salt, and cook for 8–10 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, ginger and chilli or cayenne pepper, and cook for a further 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
2 Stir in the garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric and another good pinch of salt.
Continue to cook for 1 minute or so, stirring constantly to prevent the spices from burning. Add a splash of water if it begins to stick.
3 Add the passata and the bay leaf, if using, and stir for 2–3 minutes. The mixture will begin to thicken. Now add the beans and their bean stock. Increase the heat to medium–high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water if needed.
4 Meanwhile, make the kachumber salad. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and taste for seasoning. Set aside for later.
5 If you’re happy with a chunkier makhani, you could partially mash the beans with a potato masher, then add the cream or yoghurt. However, for something closer to the traditional Punjabi classic, carefully transfer a third of the mixture to a blender, making sure the bay leaf isn’t in there. Pour in a splash of the cream or yoghurt to cool it slightly, secure the lid tightly, and blend until smooth. Pour the blended mixture back into the pot and stir to combine.
6 Taste for seasoning. At this stage, you may want to add a little sugar to balance. Stir in the remaining cream or yoghurt. Add the lime a little at a time, tasting as you go.
7 To serve, spoon the makhani into bowls, and top each one with a dollop of Greek or coconut yoghurt and a big spoonful of the kachumber salad. To make into a full and hearty meal, serve with basmati rice, naans or tortilla chips.
Butter bean tagine feast with olive + lemon salsa
Serves 6
Takes 45 minutes
Feast your eyes on this. Creamy butter beans are gently simmered in a fragrant, spiced tagine, absorbing all the deep, aromatic flavours of cumin, coriander and cinnamon. Served alongside fluffy, herby bulgur wheat and a tangy olive-and-lemon salsa, it’s easy to prep in advance and is guaranteed to impress at a dinner party or Sunday lunch.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 3 fat garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1½ tbsp ras el hanout
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp rose harissa paste
• 2 × 570g (1lb 4½oz) jarred butter beans, with their bean stock
• 150ml (5fl oz/¼ pint) veg stock
• 400g (14oz) can chopped tomatoes
• 60g (2¼oz) dried apricots, raisins or sultanas (optional)
• salt and pepper
For the tabbouleh
• 150g (5½oz) bulgur wheat or quinoa
• 15g (½oz) each mint, parsley and coriander, finely chopped
• 100g (3½oz) pomegranate seeds
• juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
For the salsa
• 50g (1¾oz) flaked almonds or sunflower or pumpkin seeds
1 1. Heat the olive oil in a large casserole pan over a medium–high heat. Add the onion, carrots and a pinch of salt, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, then stir in the ras el hanout, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup and harissa paste. Cook for 3 minutes, mixing well.
2 Pour the butter beans and their bean stock into the pan, along with the veg stock and chopped tomatoes. Fill the tomato can about a third full of water, give it a swirl, and throw that in too. Add the apricots, raisins or sultanas, if using, then bring to a simmer and cook for 22–25 minutes so that the flavours mingle and the sauce thickens and reduces slightly.
3 Meanwhile, prepare the tabbouleh. Cook the bulgur wheat or quinoa according to the packet instructions. Drain and leave to cool.
4 Tip the cooled bulgur or quinoa into a large bowl and add the remaining tabbouleh ingredients. Season with a pinch of salt and mix well to combine. Taste and add more seasoning or lemon juice to your liking.
5 To make the salsa, toast the almonds or seeds in a small dry frying pan over a medium heat for a couple of minutes until golden, tossing regularly. Tip into a bowl and mix with the remaining salsa ingredients.
6 Scatter some of the salsa over the tagine, reserving some for the table, and place the pan in the centre of the table, alongside the tabbouleh, and perhaps some yoghurt and flatbreads, if you like.
TOP TIP
If you don’t have ras el hanout, make your own by combining 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, ground cinnamon, paprika and ground ginger.
Recipes taken from Full of Beans: delicious beany recipes to obsess over by Amelia
Christie-Miller. Published
by
Kyle Books. Photography
by
Sam A Harris
Chickpea, sweet potato + peanut butter curry
Serves 3-4
Takes 40 minutes
Our favourite part of this recipe – one of our toprated ones from the website – is that the sweet potatoes are gently poached in coconut milk and all those sweet and spicy aromatics, so it’s full-on flavour from the inside out. The peanut butter adds an extra layer of creaminess, as do the chickpeas.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or neutral oil, such as sunflower or rapeseed oil
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, grated
• thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chilli powder (optional)
• ½ tsp cinnamon / 1 cinnamon stick
• 500g (1lb 2oz) sweet potato, butternut squash or pumpkin, peeled and cut into chunks
• 400ml (14fl oz) can coconut milk
• 100ml (3½fl oz) veg stock
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 200g (7oz) fresh spinach
• 100g (3½oz) sugar snap peas
• 700g (1lb 9oz) jarred chickpeas, with their bean stock
• j uice of ½ lime, plus wedges to serve
• 15g (½oz) coriander, roughly chopped
• salt and pepper
TO SERVE OPTIONAL
• Greek or natural yoghurt
• mango chutney
• roasted peanuts or toasted flaked almonds, roughly chopped
• cooked white or brown rice
• warm naans or flat breads
METHOD
1 1. Heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 8 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and ginger and cook for 2 minutes more until fragrant.
2 Add the cumin, turmeric, garam masala, chilli powder and cinnamon, along with a splash of water, and stir to create a paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3 Add the sweet potato, squash or pumpkin chunks, along with the coconut milk and veg stock. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 25–30 mins until the liquid has reduced right down and the starch has leached from the sweet potatoes to create a thick sauce. They should be soft enough that a cutlery knife can be inserted into the centre easily.
4 Stir in the peanut butter until it mellows into the sauce. Add the spinach, sugar snaps and chickpeas, along with their stock – you may need to add the spinach in batches. Mix well to combine, then simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted. Add the lime juice and most of the coriander, saving a handful for a garnish. Check for seasoning, adding salt, pepper and more lime juice, if desired.
5 Serve the curry into bowls, and top with the remaining coriander, along with a dollop of yoghurt, some mango chutney and a scattering of roasted nuts for crunch, if you fancy. Serve with cooked rice and naans or flat breads for something even heartier.
CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS TREE FARM TREE FARM
Your Christmas begins at ..... HURLEY’S CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
Real Christmas Trees from the Real Christmas Tree Farm, Essex
OPEN to the general public from MID-NOVEMBER andTHROUGHOUT
DECEMBER from 9am to 5pm Weekdays & 8am to 6pm Weekends for the sale of real fresh Christmas Trees
Family fun with thousands of the finest, freshly grown Real Christmas Trees to choose from, including needle retaining, ‘non-drop’ & traditional varieties.
Get your Christmas trees DIRECT FROM THE GROWER at Hurleys Farm. Choose your fabulous Family Tree from over 10 freshly cut varieties on display or choose directly from our fields and we will cut it for you
Christmas Trees at the best prices around from 3/4ft up to 15ft for this year at our Hurleys Christmas Tree Farm, Battlesbridge.
When should the decorations go up? Right after Halloween or deep into December? Whichever camp you're in, and whether you're into full garish or pared back and muted, Meri Meri has all you need in terms of garlands, candles and ornaments. merimeri.co.uk
MERI MERI
DECORATE TO THE MAX
KIT KEMP
Kit Kemp’s Christmas style blends whimsy, warmth and charm. Known for her bold use of colour, pattern, and texture, Kemp's festive interiors are joyful, imaginative spaces that feel h luxurious and inviting. Expect handcrafted ornaments, richly layered textiles and natural elements like pine, berries, and foliage paired with quirky, artistic touches, such as embroidered stockings or sculptural table settings. Bespoke garlands drape among an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. kitkemp.com
TABLE TALK
Latina works directly with over 60 artisans in nine communities across Colombia and Venezuela. Beautiful hand-painted ceramics, woven mats and pretty napkin rings create lovely Christmas tablescapes. casalatina.co.uk
CASA LATINA
Casa
TOY FACTORY
VILLEROY & BOCH
HOME COMFORTS
CINNY
Cinny Aumonier, the interior designer behind CINNY is launching a new collection this Christmas. It includes a new series of vintage pieces reworked in her own fabrics, plus her much-loved stripe eiderdown, meticulously handmade and perfect for your bedroom. The Arthur Stripe design is a stylish upholstery option that comes into its own at Christmas. cinny.co.uk
Villeroy & Boch's collectible Toy's Delight Christmas crockery is back for 2025 with their detailed, hand-painted design and lovingly crafted toy motifs to delight all ages. villeroy-boch.co.uk
LIGHT
MERI MERI
For candles, garlands, paper plates and all party supplies, look to Meri Meri. A special collaboration with Liberty for Christmas 2025 results in lots of beautiful printed paper decorations. Candles come in countless colours and sizes, while beautiful packaging makes them great gifts too. merimeri.co.uk
ROCKETT ST
GEORGE
Baguette bauble, £11.95 rockettstgeorge.co.uk
STUDIO THIE
Real Housewives of Clapton Set, £45 studiothie.com
ANTHROPOLOGIE
Glass car ornament, £18 anthropologie.com
SELFRIDGES
Mustard glass decoration, £16 selfridges.com
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Mary Anning Embroidered Decoration, £15 nhmshop.co.uk
Raise a toast to Wonderbly's personalised cocktail book. Take one cocktail lover, mix with a splash of personalisation, shake well, then strain through one snazzy illustrator and voila. With 29 thirst-quenching recipes and a signature cocktail inspired by the recipient's name, this gi kicks harder than a Moscow Mule. From £29 wonderbly.com
Ladies Beatrice the Bear lambswool crew, £75 houseo ruar.com
By PENDLE HARTE
Venice Opera Drop Earrings
lesundial.com
KARMA ON THE ROCKS
Kobe silk kimono, £550 and matching slippers, £52 ameliesfollies.co.uk
THE AVANTGARDE
Dahlia sunglasses in Mid Choc Tort, £117 theavantgarde.com
Blondie striped jumper, £240 hades-shop.co.uk
CATHERINE ZORAIDA
Parakeet green tassle earrings, £180 catherinezoraida.com
MADELEINE THOMPSON
Cashmere Pippa hat, £155 madeleine-thompson.com
GUCCI
Flora Blush de Beauté Limited-Edition Cheek and Eyes Powder, £42 selfridges.com
Life in the French Riviera is warm, effortless, and enduring—a spirit perfectly captured in the new Le Creuset stoneware gifting collection. Featuring ten sets in coastal-inspired hues, the Riviera Collection is unmistakably joyful and the perfect gift for travel and adventure lovers.
EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN YOU VISIT A LE CREUSET STORE • BESPOKE CUSTOMER SERVICE • EXCLUSIVE PRODUCT RANGES AND OFFERS • PRODUCT EXPERTISE AND AFTERCARE • FREE DELIVERY OVER £50 • LOYALTY REWARDS • FREE RECIPE CARDS CALL & DELIVER. | PAY BY LINK. | FREE UK DELIVERY WHEN YOU SPEND £50 OR MORE. | CONTACT THE STORE FOR MORE DETAILS.
LE CREUSET MARYLEBONE, 6 NEW CAVENDISH STREET, LONDON. W1G 8UH. TEL: 0207 4865404 • E-MAIL: MARYLEBONE.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM
LE CREUSET MUSWELL HILL, 74 MUSWELL HILL BROADWAY, LONDON. N10 3RT. TEL: 0208 8834394 • E-MAIL: MUSWELLHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM
LE CREUSET NOTTING HILL, 54 LEDBURY RD., NOTTING HILL, LONDON. W11 2AJ. TEL: 0203 2200017 • E-MAIL: NOTTINGHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM
LE CREUSET ST. ALBANS, 27 MARKET PLACE, ST. ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE. AL3 5DL. TEL: 01727 850453 • E-MAIL: STALBANS.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM
LE CREUSET WIMBLEDON, 4 CHURCH RD., WIMBLEDON VILLAGE, LONDON. SW19 5DL. TEL: 0208 9440624 • E-MAIL: WIMBLEDON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM
By PENDLE HARTE
Effortless PERFECTION
The easiest Christmas turkey you’ll ever cook
Christmas is a time for celebration, not stress, and this year, hosts across the South East can look forward to a festive feast that’s as e ortless as it is exquisite. Imagine a beautifully reared, flavour-packed turkey that requires no brining, no basting, and no fuss. Simply season, pop it in the oven, and let it do the rest.
This Christmas, discerning households can enjoy the luxury of ease with premium, fully mature turkeys available for home delivery on December 22nd or collection from select South East locations on December 22nd, 23rd, and 24th.
NATURALLY PERFECT, NO EFFORT REQUIRED
These aren’t ordinary birds. Each turkey is traditionally reared on the Copas
turkey farm in Cookham, where quality, welfare, and flavour come first. Allowed to mature fully, the turkeys naturally develop a thin layer of fat beneath the skin, nature’s own basting system. The result? Tender, juicy meat and beautifully crisp golden skin, every single time. There’s no need to soak in brine or continually open the oven door to baste. All the hard work has been done for you. Simply season with salt, pepper, and a sprig of herbs, then roast to perfection. It’s the simplest way to achieve restaurant-quality results at home, ideal for those who want their Christmas Day to be indulgent, not intense.
EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE FOR THE MODERN HOST
For households where the tree twinkles just so, the champagne is perfectly chilled, and the table is set with timeless style, this turkey is the ultimate
centrepiece. It’s the perfect combination of artisan craftsmanship and modern convenience, no shortcuts on quality, just fewer steps to perfection.
With one simple preparation, you can enjoy the rich flavour and succulence of a hand-reared bird that tastes as though you’ve spent hours tending to it. Your guests will think you have.
Each bird arrives oven-ready, beautifully presented, and ready to take centre stage in your Christmas celebrations.
THE STRESS-FREE SECRET TO A PERFECT CHRISTMAS
DINNER
This year, let the hardest-working part of your Christmas meal be the oven. Enjoy a turkey that’s been raised with care, perfected by nature, and prepared for your convenience, ensuring that your Christmas Day is as deliciously e ortless as it should be. copasfarmshop.co.uk
TRADITIONS NEW
Skye McAlpine’s Christmas Companion is filled with classic dishes with a modern twist
Roast Goose with Caramelised Clementines
Serves 6
There is something Dickensian (in a good way) about a roast goose. When you cook the bird, you want the meat buttery rich and tender, but the skin salty crisp; that same delectable texture as Peking duck. The best way to achieve this is with the cooking method below, where you pour boiling water over the bird, then pat dry. A brief note on timings: for a larger (or smaller) bird, roast for 10 minutes at 240˚C / 220˚C fan. Reduce the heat to 190˚C / 170˚C fan and cook for 32 minutes per kg. When calculating cooking time, include the weight of the citrus inside the bird.
Hands on time 20 minutes
Hands o time 2 hours to dry in the fridge, 3 hours to cook, 30 minutes to rest
INGREDIENTS
• 4.5‒5kg goose
• 3 lemons, plus the finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 12 clementines
• Small bunch of bay leaves
• Small bunch of rosemary
• 2‒3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons clear honey
• Sea salt flakes and black pepper
METHOD
1 Bring a kettle of water to the boil. Pierce the skin of the goose all over with a fork. Set it on a wire rack in the sink, then pour boiling water over it. Pat dry with kitchen paper, then settle the bird, on its wire rack, in a roasting tray. Slice 3 lemons, cut 6 clementines in half and stu them inside the cavity with most of the bay leaves and the rosemary sprigs. Sprinkle the skin generously with salt and set in the fridge to dry for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
2 An hour before you’re ready to roast the goose, take it out of the fridge and heat the oven to 240˚C / 220˚C fan. Halve the remaining 6 clementines, slicing them across their bodies, and arrange them snugly in a roasting tray; then season generously with salt and pepper, throw in a few more bay leaves and drizzle over the olive oil. Set aside.
3 In a small bowl, combine the honey with the lemon zest and juice, add a generous pinch of salt and smother all over the skin of the bird. Cover with foil and set in the oven; after 10 minutes, reduce the temperature to 190˚C / 170˚C fan for 2½‒3 hours. For the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil so the skin can crisp up. To test if the goose is done, insert a knife into the thickest part and check the juices run clear; or use a probe thermometer: it is cooked at 70˚C. Cover with foil and clean tea towels, then rest it for 30 minutes.
4 Meanwhile, set the tray of clementines in the oven to roast for 30-40 minutes, until tender and caramelised. Serve the goose with the roasted sweet fruit.
Panettone Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Makes 2
There is so much that is seemingly wrong about this combination of melted, rich cheese with golden toasted sweet bread, yet by some kind of alchemy the two work exceptionally well together. Trust me on the addition of mustard: you need a slick of something sharp and peppery to cut through the glorious greasy, buttery richness of the whole affair (indeed, by the same principle, this would be good with a few cornichons or pickled onions on the side).Trust me also on the mayonnaise: I know it seems egregious to slather mayo over something as delicately flavoured as a slice of panettone, but you won’t taste it. I promise. The mayonnaise seemingly evaporates into nothingness, but the combination of its constituent parts – eggs and olive oil – paves the way for a perfectly golden exterior on the sandwich.T his makes for a gloriously rich and indulgent breakfast, but I am also quite partial to a grilled cheese sandwich for supper, with nothing more than a little crisp green salad on the side.
Hands on time 10 minutes
Hands o time None
INGREDIENTS
• 80–90g panettone
• 10g salted butter
• 2 heaped teaspoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 heaped tablespoons grated mild Cheddar
METHOD
1 Slice the panettone into 2 evenly (and roughly equal) sized pieces. If it’s a round, crossways section, I like to cut it on the diagonal, so that when sandwiched together you have a rounded triangular sandwich. Set a nonstick pan over a medium heat and melt the butter. Spread the mayonnaise over 1 side of each of the pieces of panettone. Now turn a slice over so its mayonnaise-coated side is facing downwards and spread with a thin layer of mustard, then top with the grated cheese.
2 Sandwich together with the second slice of panettone,mayonnaise-coated side facing upwards this time, then set in the pan.Fry gently over a medium heat for 2–3 minutes, until the bread turns golden, then carefully flip the sandwich on to the other side and fry for a further 2–3 minutes,until golden on both sides and the cheese has melted. Serve immediately.
Gingerbread, Cranberry and Zabaione Trifle
Serves 8-10
If you are able to serve this in a glass dish then all the better, because part of the magic of a trifle is to see and enjoy all the different layers. This Anglo-Italian variation on the theme of trifle, with its layer of dark, sticky gingerbread, ruby-red cranberry sauce, custard yellow, frothy zabaione and final stratum of so , snowy whipped cream, is certainly no exception. But don’t let the absence of the right bowl put you off: this particular combination of cloud-like zabaione with dense, peppery ginger bread is enough to make even those who think they don’t really like trifle (of which I count myself a member) change their minds. A traditional trifle calls for a layer of custard, which I’ve replaced here with airy zabaione, infused with Amaretto liquor, instead of the more conventional prosecco or Marsala. The hint of sweet almond is a subtle and pleasing complement to the layer of sticky, spiced ginger cake. All together the cake, cream and zabaione are quite sweet, which is why I like the sharpness of cranberry sauce here rather than a more canonical sweet jam, but you could also use fresh fruit instead.
Hands on time 35 minutes
Hands o time 1 hour (minimum) standing before serving
INGREDIENTS
• 580g gingercake (I use Jamaica Ginger Cake)
• 300g cranberry sauce
• 12 egg yolks
• 200g caster sugar
• 140mlAmaretto
• 30g flaked almonds
• 900ml double cream
METHOD
1 Slice the ginger cake into 2–3cm-thick pieces and arrange in a trifle dish in a single layer, squishing the pieces of sticky cake together with your fingers so the entire area is covered.
2 Now spoon the cranberry sauce over the cake, spreading it out evenly.Fill a pan up to one-third full of water, set it over a medium heat and bring to the boil.
3 Put the egg yolks and sugar into a heatproof bowl and whisk with electric beaters – plugged in (if they need to be) close to the stove – for 2–3minutes, or until you have a light, flu y and voluminous mass. As the mixture begins to froth up, set the bowl over the pan of gently simmering water, taking care that the hot water doesn’t touch the bowl. Keep whisking until the mixture is thick enough for a trail of it to remain on the surface when drizzled over from the whisk.
4 Slowly pour in the Amaretto, whisking all the while.This should take 3–5 minutes, and as you add the liquid, the zabaione will double in size and thicken.Remove the bowl from the heat and let the zabaione cool to room temperature, whisking occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
Toss the flaked almonds into a nonstick frying pan and set over a medium heat.Toast for 2–3minutes, shaking the pan from time to time to move the shards of nuts about, until they are lightly golden.Take o the heat and set aside. In a second bowl, whip 400ml
of the double cream until soft peaks form, taking care not to over-whip.
5 Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled zabaione and spoon the yellow, Amaretto-scented custard into the trifle dish, over the cranberry sauce, spreading it out evenly. Store in the fridge, covered, forupto 36hours. Alternatively, freeze for up to 3 months, then defrost overnight in the fridge before adding the whipped cream and nuts.
6 When ready to serve, whip the remaining cream to soft peaks,spoon it over the layer of zabaione and sprinkle over the toasted flaked almonds. You can prepare this up to 24 hours before serving and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready for pudding.
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NThe Real Deal
Support natural woodlands and wildlife with Capital Gardens’ pot grown Christmas trees
Nothing says Christmas quite like a real tree
othing says Christmas quite like a real tree. The distinctive fragrance, sparkling decorations, and glowing lights really do create the heart of a festive home. At Capital Gardens, they know just how important it is to find the perfect tree. That’s why they partner with trusted UK growers, Needlefresh, to bring you the very best in quality and choice. Step into any of their Garden Centres and you’ll discover a wide range of Christmas trees, along with everything you need to decorate and light them. Quite simply, they’re your one-stop Christmas tree destination.
Give Your Pot-Grown Christmas Tree a Second Life
Needlefresh has supplied Capital Gardens’ Christmas trees for more than 25 years and in 2023 they launched a new initiative with them. Their customers can return their pot-grown trees after the Christmas celebrations, for replanting in a woodland.
Thanks to the fantastic response, Capital Gardens is delighted to continue this scheme across all five of their centres: SherfieldOn-Loddon, Alexandra Palace, East Sheen, Wandsworth, and Berkhamstead.
In partnership with Yattendon Estates, your returned tree is planted in a natural clearing within a mature woodland. This area is largely broadleaf forest, where the older trees provide essential shelter to help young Christmas trees establish and flourish. Your tree will continue to absorb carbon, provide shelter for wildlife and thrive in a natural woodland setting, making it a truly eco-friendly choice. All you need to do is water your tree throughout the festive season, so it stays healthy and alive. Then return it to any of the five Garden Centres by the 11th January 2026. They will replant it, and, as
a thank you, you’ll receive a voucher for 20% o your next year’s Christmas tree.
Explore Their Christmas Tree Collection
Whatever your space, style, or budget, Capital Gardens have the tree for you. Their reduced-drop varieties range from the everpopular Nordmann Fir through to the Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, Fraser Fir, Noble Fir, and Omorika Spruce, each with its own unique charm.
NORDMANN FIR
With its classic outline and glossy green foliage, the Nordmann Fir is the UK’s favourite Christmas tree. Strong tiered branches make it perfect for hanging decorations, while its soft needles are child and pet-friendly.
FRASER FIR
Compact and conical in shape, the Fraser Fir is ideal for smaller rooms. It brings a wonderful festive fragrance and its dense, green-silver branches create a lush backdrop for lights and baubles.
NOBLE FIR
The Noble Fir combines elegance with practicality. Blue-green foliage, a gentle fragrance, superb needle retention, and open branching make it the ultimate tree for showcasing larger decorations.
Explore the ultimate Christmas gift guide from London Transport Museum
This Christmas, dive into the unique charm of London Transport Museum for your Christmas shopping. With a huge range of gifts inspired by the city’s iconic transport history, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list. From stylish apparel to memorable collectibles, shop instore at Covent Garden or online.
CHRISTMAS KNITWEAR
The 2025 limited edition Christmas knitwear range celebrates London's transport system, featuring a blue design interweaving iconic modes from
across the TfL network into the shape of a Christmas tree. The range is a fun and stylish way to keep you warm during Christmas celebrations. Pick up your adult knitwear jumper, scarf, hat and socks, plus the kids can wrap up with a jumper so the whole family can match.
GIFT BOXES
Take away the stress of Christmas shopping and save time with a pre-made gift box. Featuring a mix of transportthemed gifts packaged in a kraft box with recyclable colourful shredded paper, they are ready to be delivered straight to your loved ones’ doors. You can also add a gift message for a personalised touch.
Available in four di erent themes including London transport, Elizabeth line moquette, District line moquette and Routemaster moquette. Only available to purchase online, so be quick as there is limited stock available.
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Deck the halls with transport-themed decorations that o er a stylish nod to London transport icons. Featuring baubles and decorations in a variety of sizes, adorned with the roundel and designs of tube trains, these will turn your tree into a festive transport wonderland.
ORGANIC COTTON MOQUETTE SOCKS
Moquette socks prove that practical doesn’t have to mean boring. Socks are available to buy in 10 di erent patterns either individually or in a Socks in a Box set ideal for gifting. They feature contemporary and nostalgic patterns from London’s transport network, adding a dash of personality to any wardrobe. O ering comfort and warmth, they’re a thoughtful present for the winter season.
MOQUETTE SCARVES
A sophisticated Christmas gift for those who appreciate both style and heritage. Made from lambswool produced in the UK, these scarves are available in six vintage and modern moquette patterns from the seats of London’s transport system. Not only do they provide warmth and comfort during the colder months, but they also carry a unique story that represents the rich history of transport in London. ltmuseumshop.co.uk
FASHION
Party season
RUSSELL & BROMLEY It's all about party feet at Russell & Bromley this season – so think stilettos, metallics and colour. We love this heeled strappy sandal, £275 , which comes in Blush too. russellandbromley.co.uk
The Shoot: Pearl Lowe's dresses 98 • Ski style 107
UP Dress
Handmade, vintage-inspired frocks from Pearl Lowe
The
continuesstory
Own a piece of Rolex history with a Rolex Certified pre-owned watch from the Watches of Switzerland Group
“SOME WATCHES DON’T JUST TELL THE TIME – THEY TELL A STORY ”
For decades, people have chosen Rolex watches to celebrate achievements, journeys and personal triumphs, and often they become heirlooms passed from one generation to the next. Through the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme, available at the Watches of Switzerland Group, these exceptional timepieces allow you to begin your own story with a watch that carries true heritage.
As well as o ering the opportunity to own a piece of Rolex history, the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme ensures each watch is authenticated and meticulously checked to meet the exacting standards of the world’s most renowned watchmaker. From the case and bracelet to the movement itself, every detail is tested and verified by Rolextrained watchmakers, using genuine replacement parts where needed to ensure precision and reliability.
In selected Goldsmiths, Mappin & Webb and Watches of Switzerland showrooms, these Certified Pre-Owned collections o er clients the rare opportunity to view, try on and purchase pieces from across the decades. For collectors, it is a chance to find an elusive piece from years past, while for first-time buyers, the programme o ers the chance to step into the world of Rolex with the reassurance of authenticity
certificates and a two-year international guarantee.
Each timepiece is presented with a distinctive pouch, a Rolex Certified Pre-Owned seal, guarantee card, o cial papers and a new two-year international warranty. The result is a timepiece that performs to the brand's exceptionally high criteria, while preserving the heritage and character of its past.
Part of the programme’s appeal lies in its connection to history. Many Rolex Certified Pre-Owned models have the same design signatures as watches from earlier eras, including discontinued models no longer in current production. From the Submariner, created for underwater exploration back in the 1950s, to the Datejust, an object of desire for horologists since the 1940s, each piece carries the character of its past into the present.
More than a timepiece, a Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watch is a connection to decades of watchmaking excellence. Whether marking a milestone, expanding a collection, or beginning your journey with Rolex, the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned programme ensures authenticity, heritage and excellence, all supported by the trusted expertise of the Watches of Switzerland Group. Because some watches don’t just tell the time – they tell a story.
Sam Green, Sales Manager at Prestons, shares his experience working alongside our teams at each of our showrooms in Cheshire, Yorkshire, Norwich and Surrey. He also reveals his favourite Rolex model and offers his advice to clients in search of their perfect timepiece.
How does the partnership between Prestons and Rolex elevate the customer experience?
Our partnership with Rolex is truly special, it’s what allows us to provide an experience that goes beyond simply buying a wristwatch. For the team and I, it’s about building trust, offering expertise, and sharing a passion for craftsmanship with every client who walks through our doors.
I feel so fortunate to have worked with Rolex for over a decade. The brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence is unmatched, and it’s that dedication that enables us to deliver an exceptional experience at Prestons. We’re able to offer clients more than just beautiful timepieces; we offer a journey that’s personal and filled with meaning. Our showrooms are, I believe, the perfect environment in which to experience the Rolex collections.
What is the most exciting part of showcasing the Rolex collection to customers?
There is truly so much to explore in the Rolex collection, so many wonderful features, configurations and aesthetics and stories to share. Every collection offers something unique, and every model offers a different function or set of functions.
Our teams love introducing clients to the diversity within the Rolex range, from the most classic models to the latest releases. Each model offers something different, and we never tire of seeing the excitement when a client discovers their perfect watch.
Ultimately, it’s about connecting with clients and understanding their needs – whether they’re marking a special occasion or finally acquiring a model they’ve admired for years. The relationships we build, combined with Rolex’s timeless craftsmanship, ensure that every experience is one they’ll remember for years to come.
The Rolex collection offers a comprehensive selection of timepieces, but do you have one particular model or configuration you personally love?
One of the things I value most about Rolex is the versatility of its collections. It’s never easy to choose a single favourite – every model has something unique to offer, whether it’s the design, the story behind it, or how it fits into everyday life. That’s part of what makes Rolex so special: the perfect balance between heritage and innovation.
If I had to choose, I’d say the Oyster Perpetual is a collection I always return to. It has such a timeless, classic design. Over the years, I’ve recommended it to so many clients, whether they were buying their first Rolex or adding to an existing collection. After all this time, I am still discovering new variations that I love. The new dial colours introduced at this year’s Watches and Wonders, are truly beautiful and show just how exciting the collection can be.
With five different sizes, there is great flexibility in the range. Personally, my favourite configuration is the Oyster Perpetual 41 with a black dial. It’s a classic combination and really showcases the elegance of the Oyster Perpetual collection - robust, stylish and incredibly comfortable on the wrist thanks to its Oystersteel bracelet.
It’s a watch that can be dressed up or down, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. I’d happily wear it at work, with friends, or for an evening event.
Another favourite of mine is the Yacht-Master. It’s an iconic piece that combines a sporty yet elegant aesthetic with impressive technical features. Beyond its style, it’s also a highly practical tool –ideal for those who appreciate its nautical roots. Whether you value its performance or its design, the Yacht-Master never disappoints.
“My
favourite configuration is the Oyster Perpetual 41 with a black dial. It’s a classic combination and really showcases the elegance of the Oyster Perpetual collection”
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41
115 - 117 High Street, Guildford GU1 3DP
What’s the most rewarding part o helping someone find their perfect Rolex?
There is nothing more special than matching a client with their perfect watch. I can speak on behalf of the team at each showroom when I say it’s one of our greatest passions. Often, a client is considering purchasing a olex wristwatch to mar a significant moment in their life, so it is usually a deeply personal experience for them. Whether it’s to mark a milestone or as part of a celebration, the meaning behind each choice adds real emotion to the journey. The discovery process is such an important part of any client’s journey with Rolex, and it is truly wonderful to see the moment when a client finds the watch for them – the experience of finding and purchasing that watch is so filled with joy, that it becomes a memory for both us and the client. It’s a shared moment of excitement and pride.
Each member of our team at Prestons Guildford, as well as across each of our locations, feels incredibly lucky to be a part of these important moments and to be part of so many of our clients’ memories, milestones, and occasions. The personal care we offer and the long term relationships we build with our clients are at the heart of what we do. We’re not just helping people buy a watch; we’re building lasting connections.
he personal care we o er and the long term relationships we build with our clients are at the heart of what we do”
How would you advise a client who wished to purchase a Rolex to mark a special milestone in their life?
When a client visits Prestons Guildford looking to mark a special milestone with a olex watch, our first step is always to get to know them – the occasion, their personal tastes, and what makes this moment meaningful. A Rolex is never just a watch; it’s a personal reflection of an achievement or a memory they want to carry forward. Recently, we worked with a client who wanted to commemorate the birth of his first child. He wanted a timeless piece to symbolise this new chapter, and it was incredibly rewarding to help him find the perfect watch that matched both his style and sentiment.
We pay close attention to every detail –from preferred metals, like white, yellow or Everose gold, to lifestyle and hobbies that might influence their choice. The Rolex collection is vast and diverse, offering something for everyone and we take great pride in tailoring our recommendations to suit each client’s personality and lifestyle. Choosing a Rolex for a milestone is about creating a lasting connection to that moment, not just a purchase, but a celebration of life’s meaningful achievements.
What makes the experience of exploring Rolex at Prestons Guildford so special for new and returning clients?
Whether it’s your first time exploring the Rolex collection or you are adding to your collection, the journey truly comes to life when experienced in person. Prestons Guildford provides a calm, inviting space where clients can feel comfortable, relaxed and fully immersed in the world of Rolex.
From the two discrete VIP lounges to the elegant champagne bar, the Rolex showroom at Prestons uildford offers a setting that invites exploration of the brand and its collections. The space allows our clients to enjoy a coffee, or perhaps a glass of champagne, as well as the privacy to select their new wristwatch, celebrate an occasion or to learn more about the Rolex servicing journey.
For those beginning their Rolex journey, we recommend exploring Rolex.com and Rolex.org, which beautifully capture the brand’s heritage, craftsmanship and philanthropic values.
Ultimately, nothing compares to seeing a Rolex on the wrist. The team and I would invite anyone interested in exploring the brand to visit our showrooms, where our teams will be delighted to guide you through our collection and answer any questions you may have.
Our Guildford showroom is led by our two wonderful showroom managers, Ryan Tully and Chris Grieve, who, together with our sales team, are always on hand to guide each client through their own Rolex journey.
For further information please visit: prestonsdiamonds.co.uk
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Pure wellbeing
THE GLOSS Luxury health and wellness clinic The Gloss is the go-to haven for women with every skin type and tone, located in the heart of Knightsbridge. This female-founded wellness hub boasts a wealth of NHS-qualified doctors, pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychiatrists and nutritionists, marrying the opulence of Knightsbridge, with the results of Harley Street. the-gloss.com
BEAUTY
NOTES
The latest in luxury makeup and skincare
By CARLY GLENDINNING
JO MALONE LONDON
Christmas at Jo Malone London is inspired by games, with a playful approach to packaging. The Ginger Biscuit Pillar candle collection features a warm spicy scent inspired by just-baked biscuit. Finished with a decorative print
EDITOR’S PICK
DAILY RITUAL GAME ON COCOA POP
MARIA NILA SPOTLIGHT
Vegan haircare from Sweden
SEARL OF EAST
wedish brand Maria Nila o ers a hair-care range celebrated for its ethical credentials and e ective performance. Established in 1999, the line is entirely vegan and free from animal testing – a clear statement of sustainability and “clean” beauty practice.
One of Maria Nila’s standout features is its commitment to colour-protection and hair-type-specific collections. Their products target needs such as coloured hair, dry or frizz-prone hair, scalp concerns, volume boosting and more — for example, the Luminous Colour series safeguards vibrancy, while the True Soft line smooths and softens textured or dry strands.
Olverum’s trio of expertly crafted products including Pro cellular Day Cream, Pro cellular Night Cream and Cleansing Balm, seamlessly blends advanced skin science with Olverum’s renowned dedication to psychological wellbeing. More than just skincare, this range is designed to nurture both skin and mind, setting a new standard for self-care.
Packaging is also part of the appeal: the brand uses CO -compensated packaging and emphasises environmentally responsible production alongside high performance. From shampoos and conditioners to masks, oils, colour-deposition treatments and styling products, Maria Nila covers the full gamut of hair-care needs.
Maria Nila Head & Hair Heal Shampoo is targeted at scalp and hair problems like flakiness and itch.
for di erent hair types — Maria Nila represents a strong choice. and wrapped in a colourful gi box. £66
VICTORIA BECKHAM BEAUTY
Each shade in the new Cocoa collection is intentionally chosen and eminently wearable, while each formula retains the same standard of excellence and ease of application as every product in the Victoria Beckham Beauty collection. victoriabeckhambeauty.com
Meanwhile, the Luminous Colour Shampoo & Conditioner Duo focuses on colour-care and shine, and the True Soft Shampoo appeals to those needing softness and smoothness.
In short, if you’re seeking haircare that blends ethical credentials
In short, if you’re seeking haircare that blends ethical credentials (vegan + sustainable), salon-grade performance and tailored solutions for di erent hair types — Maria Nila represents a strong choice.
MARIA NILA Range stocked at Liberty marianila.co.uk
The future OF BEAUTY
The Gloss: where luxury, beauty and wellness converge
Once upon a time, beauty clinics were sterile, clinical spaces. Somewhere you went to “fix” things, not to indulge. Fast-forward to 2025, and The Gloss has rewritten that narrative entirely. With its flagship locations in Knightsbridge and Mayfair, the brand has become synonymous with a new kind of luxury: one where expertled beauty meets indulgent self-care, all wrapped in the e ortless elegance of a members-only experience.
A NEW KIND OF LUXURY AESTHETIC
Forget white walls and fluorescent lights. The Gloss feels more like a five-star retreat than a clinic. Think golden light, plush interiors, and treatment suites that feel designed for transformation and tranquility. But make no mistake: behind the serene aesthetic lies serious medical expertise. Each destination is home to a collective of top-tier professionals o ering a 360-degree approach to beauty and wellness. Instead of clients hopping between multiple clinics for facials, injectables, or skin treatments, everything exists under one luxurious roof. The result? Seamless, personalised plans that enhance, restore, and refine.
MEMBERSHIP:
THE MODERN BEAUTY ESSENTIAL
In today’s world, true luxury is consistency. And that’s exactly what The Gloss delivers through its exclusive membership program. Priced at £999 per year; about the same as a pair of designer slingbacks, the membership o ers something infinitely
“ Luxury without limits – The Gloss is changing how London experiences beauty”
more enduring: glowing, revitalised skin and total wellness access.
Members enjoy a carefully curated suite of treatments, including regular facials, weekly massages, lash and brow maintenance, and laser or PRP treatments designed for long-term rejuvenation. No need to choose between a Hydrafacial or a peel, or delay a booster until payday.
At The Gloss, members simply book, treat, and glow; as often as they please.
“Skin isn’t transformed by one treatment. It’s consistency, every 4–6 weeks, that stimulates collagen, clears congestion, and maintains glow,” says The Gloss.
For those not ready to commit, The Gloss also o ers an à la carte treatment menu.
Whether it’s a pre-event glow-up or a first dip into the world of advanced aesthetics, guests can experience the brand’s signature approach without the full membership.
TREATMENTS WORTH THE HYPE
From Hydrafacials and lymphatic drainage to microneedling, PRP, and injectables, The Gloss combines medical precision with results-driven pampering. Every detail is tailored, whether you’re targeting texture, tone, or tension, ensuring each visit feels both indulgent and intentional. It’s luxury without limits, and it’s changing how London experiences beauty.
REDEFINING BEAUTY RETAIL
But The Gloss isn’t stopping at treatments.
It’s also redefining how beauty and wellness brands reach consumers. The group recently opened applications for product partnerships, inviting both established and emerging brands to stock their collections across its premium London locations.
For beauty founders, it’s an unprecedented opportunity. In a market where placements with retailers like Space NK or Sephora are notoriously competitive, The Gloss o ers something di erent: exposure within a curated, medically-led environment trusted by discerning clientele.
“The Gloss was built by founders, for founders,” says its retail team. We know how di cult it can be for brands to access multi-location luxury retail, so we’re opening our doors to innovative, results-driven beauty and wellness companies who want to reach an engaged, loyal community.”
THE FUTURE OF BEAUTY, REDEFINED
Whether you’re a client chasing that postfacial radiance or a beauty brand ready to reach an elite audience, The Gloss is more than a clinic, it’s a movement. One that’s redefining how luxury, wellness, and accessibility intersect in the capital. Because beauty isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling exceptional, every single day.
To apply for membership or brand partnerships, visit www.the-gloss. com or email info@the-gloss.com
Battersea Place by
LifeCare Residences
More community. Less retirement.
Luxury accommodation, facilities, lifestyle and service.
At LifeCare Residences, we understand that retirement should be a time of unparalleled freedom and personal enrichment. This is precisely why our villages were established, to take care of everyday tasks, provide outstanding service and peace of mind, so residents can spend their time doing what they love.
Battersea Place, London’s premier luxury retirement village, redefines independent living for those who seek an exceptional and vibrant lifestyle in the heart of our capital city. Situated in an enviable position directly opposite the verdant expanse of Battersea Park, our residents enjoy the serenity of this beautiful green space alongside the cultural richness and excitement of central London. The elegant streets of Chelsea and Knightsbridge are but a short, pleasant stroll across London’s most attractive bridge, offering a world of fine dining, high-end boutiques, and renowned galleries.
The true essence of life at Battersea Place lies in the seamless blend of private apartment living with impeccable services and amenities amongst a likeminded community. Our contemporary one, two, and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses are designed to the highest standard, offering a private sanctuary for each resident. Beyond your front door, an enriching community awaits, filled with opportunities for connection and personal fulfilment.
Battersea Place by LifeCare Residences
We provide an exquisite lifestyle where you can immerse yourself in the pursuits you are most passionate about, surrounded by a community of like-minded people. Our commitment to a life of ease is perhaps best exemplified by the vibrant and varied lifestyle calendar we curate each week. We are proud to have a dedicated activities team whose sole focus is to create a diverse programme of events and sessions that cater to a wide range of interests. From engaging talks by visiting experts and live musical performances to invigorating fitness classes in the gym or pool, there is always something to pique one's curiosity. Residents are empowered to pursue their passions, whether it's through our regular art and craft workshops, book clubs, or social gatherings.
At the RHN, we pick up the pieces caused by strokes and other types of brain injury and help survivors start a second life living with disability.
Tragically, many people lose contact with friends and family after a brain injury but, with your help, we can make sure they live as full a life as possible.
A small gift of a few pounds can provide toiletries and clothing for patients who have nothing and no-one to provide for them.
STRONGER SMARTER SIMPLER
The benefits of working out at home with hand weights and bands
In the age of convenience, more people are ditching crowded gyms for home-based workouts—and for good reason. You don't need bulky machines or expensive memberships to build strength, improve flexibility, and boost your overall health. With just a set of hand weights and resistance bands, your living room can become your own personal fitness studio.
1. MAXIMUM RESULTS, MINIMAL EQUIPMENT
Hand weights and resistance bands may be small, but their impact is anything but. Dumbbells allow for targeted muscle engagement, whether you're performing
equipment, and juggling your schedule can sabotage the best intentions. But working out at home removes all those barriers. In just 20–30 minutes a day, you can get a full-body workout with minimal setup and zero travel. Hand weights and bands also encourage consistency. Their portability means you can keep them visible—in a basket by the couch or under your desk—so it’s easier to squeeze in a quick set during a break or between meetings. And consistency is the real secret to fitness success.
3.
LOW IMPACT, HIGH REWARD
Resistance bands are especially popular for people recovering from injuries or looking for a lower-impact option. They provide controlled resistance that’s easier on the joints while still strengthening muscles. Similarly, hand weights o er a manageable step up from bodyweight exercises without overloading the body. These tools also promote better form and balance. Unlike machines that guide your motion, free weights and bands force your body to stabilize itself. That means you're not just working individual muscles— you’re also strengthening your core and improving coordination with every move.
4. COST-EFFECTIVE AND SPACE-SAVING
bicep curls, shoulder presses, or squats. Meanwhile, resistance bands—lightweight and incredibly versatile—can add challenge to virtually any exercise, promoting muscle activation and control.
These tools let you modify intensity on the fly. Want a heavier workout? Grab a thicker band or increase your dumbbell weight. Prefer a lighter session? Adjust accordingly. This flexibility means your workout evolves with you, whether you’re a beginner or already in great shape.
2. SAVE TIME, STAY CONSISTENT
One of the biggest hurdles to fitness is time. Commuting to the gym, waiting for
You don’t need a dedicated home gym to get in shape. A couple of hand weights and a few resistance bands can cost less than a single month’s gym membership. They take up hardly any space and can be stored in a drawer, closet, or under the bed when not in use. Plus, there are countless free workout videos and apps tailored to weights and bands, so you’ll never run out of routines to try. Whether you're following a 10-minute core session or a full 45-minute strength circuit, you can progress without spending a dime more.
Fitness doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a pair of hand weights and a set of resistance bands, you can build a consistent, e ective, and sustainable workout habit from the comfort of your home. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about taking control of your health on your terms.
In a fitness world increasingly dominated by large, impersonal Pilates chains, Pilates Squared stands as a rare gem. Tucked away in an intimate setting, this boutique reformer Pilates studio has been transforming bodies and lives for over 15 years—and its loyal clientele, some of whom have been attending for over a decade, are a testament to the studio’s unique and personalised approach.
Unlike the cookie-cutter classes often found in larger studios—where instructors follow a script and students are just another number on the mat—Pilates Squared is all about you. Specialising in private 1:1 sessions, duet classes, and small group classes with a maximum of four people, the studio ensures that every movement, every correction, and every progression is tailored to your specific body and goals.
This level of personalised attention is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Many clients come to Pilates Squared seeking a solution after being let down (or worse, injured) by the generic
BODY
WORK
Why Pilates Squared is the boutique reformer Pilates studio you've been looking for
programmes at larger studios. Without proper supervision or individualised care, it's easy to develop poor form or aggravate underlying conditions. At Pilates Squared, injury prevention and long-term wellness are built into the foundation of every session.
A major focus of the studio is injury care and rehabilitation, with specialist programs designed to support recovery from spinal, knee, hip, and back issues. Expert guidance and modifications will support healing without compromising results.
Pilates Squared also excels in pre- and postnatal rehabilitation, an area that requires deep knowledge and sensitivity. Whether you’re preparing for birth or rebuilding strength after pregnancy, the studio o ers safe, e ective programming tailored to your stage of motherhood. You’ll never be thrown into a one-size-fits-all workout; instead, each session is crafted to honour your body’s unique needs and changes.
One of the studio’s most popular o erings is the 30-Day Reformer-Based Total Body
Transformation: a targeted, immersive program designed to strengthen, tone, and align your entire body. This is not a crash course or a gimmick; it’s a highly structured and supportive experience that leaves clients stronger, leaner, and more confident in their movement.
It’s no surprise that Pilates Squared has earned accolades such as Vogue Magazine’s Pilates Studio of the Year in 2019 and Best Pilates Studio in London by Prestige Magazine in 2025. What truly sets Pilates Squared apart is the genuine investment in each client’s journey. This is not just about fitness—it’s about wellbeing. The experienced team is deeply passionate, highly trained, and focused on helping you reach your full potential.
In a world full of noise and repetition, Pilates Squared o ers something rare: real results, real care, and real transformation.
With its collection of exclusive-use wedding venues across Southern England, Country House Weddings puts your dream wedding within reach thanks to their stunning settings, all-inclusive packages and unrivalled wedding experience. From breathtaking country manors to fairytale castles, these hidden gems are the perfect choice for your showstopper wedding. (Pictured is St Audries Park) countryhouseweddings.co.uk
DITA BOWEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Dream
locations
Unveiling six of the UK's most enchanting wedding venues
When it comes to finding your wedding venue, you want a backdrop where your love story can unfold that is not only breathtaking, but exclusively yours. From an ancient castle steeped in history to elegant country houses surrounded by serene landscapes, the Country House Weddings’ collection of venues, paired with its allinclusive wedding packages, o ers just that. Here, discover their six distinctive venues, each o ering a unique and unforgettable setting for your dream wedding.
BOURTON HALL, WARWICKSHIRE
The newest addition to the Country House Weddings collection, Bourton Hall is a striking Italianate-style manor set in 12 acres of gardens, woodland and parkland. The former-Catholic Chapel is an idyllic backdrop for your ceremony with a
high ornate carved wood and gold-leaf ceiling, as is the dreamy Italian Room with double-height sash windows and crystal chandelier. On warmer days, opt for an outdoor ceremony either beneath the Portico or within the picture-perfect gardens. The Banqueting Hall is the setting for your wedding breakfast, prepared by the in-house chefs, and you can dance the night away in the Bar & Disco, relax in the lounge or play croquet on the lawn. Enjoy the view from your private balcony in the honeymoon suite and with 21 bedrooms for you and your guests, you’ll be ending the night in luxury. Why not make it a two-day a air with a Night Before Party in The Coach House? A new on-site retreat with bar, restaurant, and accommodation designed to extend your celebrations.
HOLMEWOOD HALL, CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Cambridgeshire’s newest and most exciting exclusive-use wedding venue, Holmewood Hall is a stunning Tudor
GOSFIELD HALL, PHOTO BY NATALY J PHOTOGRAPHY
Gothic-style country house nestled in the idyllic countryside at the Gateway to the Fens.Couples can tie the knot in the spectacular Gold Room, complete with its 50-foot-long aisle, or for sunnier days, opt for outside with the Bandstand and its perfect country house backdrop. You can dine in style in the Dining Room with striking views across the lake, take to the Great Hall for your first dance as confetti envelopes you from above, then party the night away in the Vault Bar & Disco. Finally, guests can rest easy knowing that they can stay the night in one of 20 bedrooms, complete with breakfast the next morning. The house also o ers a night before cottage for one half of the wedding party to enjoy an evening of celebrations.
CLEARWELL CASTLE, GLOUCESTERSHIRE
A magical castle in the Forest of Dean, Clearwell Castle is the embodiment of a fairy-tale venue. The castle’s sensational portcullis and crenellations set the scene for a truly special day, and despite its medieval facade, inside it o ers all the comforts of a manor house providing unrivalled grandeur and romance. With grand reception rooms, a stunning church-like ballroom complete with 75ft aisle – an awe-inspiring space
for your ceremony – and accommodation for almost 80 guests, your wedding will be seamless from start to finish. In the evening, you and your guests can celebrate in the Cellar Bar, or you can enjoy your first dance in the more traditional setting of the Great Hall. If you don’t want the celebrations to end, the neighbouring private bar, lounge and dining venue, The Wyndham, enables couples to enjoy an extended celebration.
LEEZ PRIORY, ESSEX
Rich in Tudor history and charm, Leez Priory in Essex is one of the longestestablished exclusive-use wedding venues in the country. Wedding ceremonies can be performed in any of the venue’s eight licenced indoor and outdoor settings, including the breathtaking historic Great Tower, beneath the carriageway or by the lake for a truly romantic a air on warmer days. The Coach House boasts a rustic charm with exposed beams and brickwork, while the Great Hall exudes tradition and elegance with a feature fireplace, exposed beams and vaulted ceiling, both of which can be used for your wedding breakfast. Accommodation is spread across 25 rooms and lodges, including the honeymoon suite, where newlyweds retreat to a four-poster bed, and large en-suite, set back from the house for privacy.
ST AUDRIES PARK, SOMERSET
This destination wedding venue, nestled between the rolling Quantock Hills and the Sea, has all the ingredients for the wedding of your dreams. The idyllic naturally lit Victorian Orangery is a stunning way to tie the knot, and the courtyard with the breathtaking country house backdrop is ideal for welcome drinks in the summer months. For more wintery a airs, you will not be disappointed with the Great Hall with its double-height arched ceiling and
grand feature fireplace, two bars, and a dedicated disco room. For your threecourse wedding breakfast, the Banqueting Hall seats up to 130 guests, with large sash windows, beautiful chandeliers, and elegant fireplace – a grand setting for your speeches. Located within a 100-acre deer park and with accommodation for over 100 spread across the main house and cottages within the grounds, the list of what this venue o ers goes on and on…
GOSFIELD HALL, ESSEX
This stunning Georgian manor house, once a royal palace, is a gem of the Essex countryside, and when you see the pictureperfect surroundings and grand reception rooms that this exclusive-use wedding venue has to o er, you will understand why! From the Marquis of Buckingham’s former Ballroom, an exquisite setting for the wedding breakfast, to Queen Charlotte’s oak-panelled gallery which comes complete with a 120-foot aisle, there are so many exquisite rooms to use on your wedding day. The Grand Salon with double-height hand-painted ceiling is also a must-see ceremony space, while the courtyard is perfect for spring and summer nuptials; however you will be blown away by The Rococo Suite – arguably the UK’s most beautiful Honeymoon Suite!The house also o ers couples 23 luxurious bedroom suites, allowing guests to celebrate before retiring to a grand room, many of which include four-poster beds, while just two minutes from the main house is The Marquis, where your Night Before Party can be held, to help start the celebrations early.
Deciding where to tie the knot is an important step... we select some of the best venues in and around London
L'oscar
LONDON WEST END loscarlondon.com
Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, L’oscar
London is a five-star boutique hotel, housed within a Grade II-listed former Baptist church. The hotel blends historic grandeur with contemporary elegance, o ering a unique and theatrical setting for weddings and civil partnerships.
A wedding at L’oscar is more than an event, it is an experience, where every detail reflects elegance and romance. Our dedicated team is committed to crafting celebrations as unique as your love story, ensuring that from the first toast to the final dance, every moment is filled with charm.
There are three captivating spaces to choose from, including The Baptist, the hotel’s awe-inspiring church, dating back to 1856. The space features a magnificent glass-topped dome and breathtaking period features, hosting up to 150 guests. It's a space unlike any other in London. Then there is The Library, enveloped in exquisite oak panels and adorned with Venetian masks. Its inviting atmosphere is ideal for intimate ceremonies of up to 80 guests.
With L’oscar London’s rich history and the team’s close attention to detail, this hotel o ers an enchanting stage for love stories to unfold.
An elegant Château hôtel in stunning grounds, surrounded by rolling vineyards with 360° views
The Langham
LONDON langhamhotels.com
For a wedding venue that blends timeless elegance with contemporary luxury, look no further than The Langham. Set in the heart of the city and steeped in history since 1865, this grand hotel remains one of London’s most refined venues.
From a spacious ballroom to intimate dining rooms, there is a setting for every couple’s vision. The Grade II–listed Grand Ballroom exudes sophistication with its soaring ceilings, antique chandeliers and tall windows opening onto a leafy Courtyard Garden (which can be seamlessly incorporated into your celebration for some al fresco glamour). For couples who favour something more intimate or unconventional, beautifully styled private dining rooms and modern British tavern The Wigmore o er versatility without compromising on luxury.
You’ll be paired with a dedicated Wedding Specialist whose mission is to bring your vision to life, from selecting the perfect room and tailoring menus to orchestrating the flow of the day. Dining experiences are overseen by renowned chef Michel Roux, who brings French technique and modern flair to every banquet. Whether your guest list numbers are 20 or 250, the food will be as memorable as the moment itself.
The hotel’s charm lies in its ability to make large-scale weddings feel personal.
“THE HOTEL’S CHARM LIES IN ITS ABILITY TO
The same spaces that make a grand impression can be styled to reflect your story, from candlelit dinners and bespoke table settings to custom florals. There’s room for creativity at every turn. From the grandeur of the Ballroom to a tranquil pre-wedding pampering session at Chuan Spa, or postwedding day cocktails in Artesian, this grande dame hotel supports every part of your journey - the build-up, the big moment, and the afterglow.
But the celebration doesn’t just begin at the ceremony. Many couples choose to stay the night before in one of The Langham’s elegant suites. After the festivities, retreat upstairs to a romantic haven for newlyweds.
If your vision of your day is one of luxury, legacy, and personalised joy, The Langham, London is the perfect place to begin your forever
Drapers' Hall
LONDON
thedrapers.co.uk
At Drapers’ Hall, you'll become part of over 500 years of history. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding breakfast or a grand celebration, the entire venue — including two beautiful outdoor spaces — is exclusively yours for the day. Every wedding at Drapers’ Hall is unique. The venue o ers complete flexibility, with bespoke catering and inclusive packages that can be tailored to your personal taste and style. Couples who choose Drapers’ Hall enjoy a seamless planning experience, with all the essentials thoughtfully included — from elegant candelabra centrepieces and a spacious dance floor to the use of a magnificent Steinway grand piano. The dedicated Events team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that every detail of your special day is flawlessly planned and perfectly delivered.
Call the events team now on 0207 448 1324 or email events@thedrapers.co.uk for more information.
Waddesdon Manor
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE waddesdon.org.uk
Nestled in the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside, The Dairy o ers a breathtaking blend of rustic charm and refined elegance which is the perfect setting for your unforgettable wedding day. Surrounded by tranquil lakes, rolling parkland, and timeless architecture, The Dairy is a private venue that promises exclusivity, intimacy, and sheer beauty from the moment you arrive.
Originally a model dairy on a the grand Waddesdon Estate, this historic venue has been lovingly restored to retain its original character while o ering every modern luxury. From the romantic ceremony spaces to the stunning lakeside terrace, every corner of The Dairy has been designed with celebration in mind. Whether you're envisioning a small, stylish gathering or a grand a air, The Dairy’s versatile spaces can be tailored to bring your unique vision to life.
Exchange vows beneath vaulted ceilings or beside the serene water’s edge, then toast your new life together in beautifully appointed reception rooms filled with natural light. Partnering with exceptional caterers and trusted industry suppliers, your wedding at The Dairy is uniquely tailored to reflect your personal style and vision. With exclusive use of the venue, your celebration is entirely private, allowing you and your guests to relax and revel in the moment. Sustainability and legacy are part of the story, too. All profits from weddings go back into the upkeep of the estate, helping preserve this historic backdrop for future generations.
THE DAIRY, WADDESDON MANOR
DINING AT DRAPERS' HALL
DRAPERS' HALL
DRAPERS' HALL GARDEN
Ashridge House
HERTFORDSHIRE ashridgehouse.org.uk
Formerly a royal residence, Ashridge House is a Grade I listed stately home set within 190 acres of magnificent gardens. Why It’s Exceptional: Ashridge House offers several impressive ceremonyandreceptionspaces,includingthebreathtakingMarbleHall withitssweepingstaircaseandthegrandChapelwithbeautifulstained glass windows. The manicured gardens provide a serene setting for outdoor ceremoniesordrinksreceptions.Withitsrichhistory,royalconnections,andgrand architecture,Ashridge House is a perfect venue for a timeless, classic wedding.
FThe Roman Baths
BATH romanbaths.co.uk
or a wedding steeped in history and elegance, The Roman Baths in the city of Bath o er a unique setting. Built around natural hot springs, the ancient Roman Baths have been remarkably wellpreserved and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Why It’s Exceptional: The Roman Baths o er a mesmerising venue for intimate ceremonies, with the torch-lit, open-air setting around the Great Bath creating an ethereal atmosphere. Couples can exchange vows surrounded by ancient architecture, followed by a reception in the nearby Pump Room.
HEDSOR HOUSE, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
Hedsor House is a quintessentially English country house o ering elegant Georgian architecture set amidst over 100 acres of private parkland. It has become a favourite for celebrity weddings and lavish celebrations. Why It’s Exceptional: One of the highlightsofHedsorHouseisitsflexibility; couples have exclusive use of the house and grounds, allowing for tailored experiences. The house itself features an opulent ballroom, stunning domed hall, and several reception rooms that exude charmandluxury.Withitssprawlinglawns and wooded parkland, Hedsor is a perfect choice for couples seeking an elegant, timeless setting with the ability to host both indoor and outdoor celebrations. hedsor.com
PHOTO: EMMA
JANE
PHOTO:
Opened in 1865 as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’, The Langham, London enjoys an unrivalled location at the top of Regent Street. With a distinguished legacy of hosting society’s most notable guests, 160 years on The Langham remains a London icon — a place where the city’s most memorable celebrations unfold. From timeless traditions to contemporary elegance, our expert team understands that every wedding is a reflection of individual style. Whether your vision is classic, modern, or beautifully distinctive, we’ll ensure every detail is seamlessly executed. Celebrate in the splendour of our Grade II Listed Grand Ballroom, the serenity of our Courtyard Garden, or the intimacy of our private dining rooms.
With bespoke menus curated by two Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux and a dedicated event specialist guiding you throughout, your celebration will be nothing short of exceptional.
1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA
T (44) 020 7636 1000 | tllon.weddings@langhamhotels.com langhamhotels.com/london
Your Biggest Day, The Smallest Details
WEDDINGS AT THE DAIRY
WADDESDON
A tranquil waterside setting amidst glorious gardens, a private building on the Waddesdon Estate
Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire
Less than 1 hour from London & Oxford
Cliveden House
BERKSHIRE
clivedenhouse.co.uk
Cliveden House, a grand Italianate mansion surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and set atop the banks of the River Thames, is one of the UK's most luxurious wedding venues.
Why It’s Exceptional: For a quintessentially British experience, ClivedenHouseishardtobeat.Couples canholdtheirceremonyintheelegant French Dining Room or under the grandeur of the ornate Main Hall.
EASTNOR CASTLE
HEREFORDSHIRE
Eastnor Castle is a romantic, 19th-century mock-Gothic fortress surrounded by a stunning deer park, arboretum, and lake. The picturesque countryside setting combined with the grandeur of the castle makes it a dream venue for couples.
Why It’s Exceptional: Eastnor Castle offers an exclusive wedding experience with a choice of several indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, including the impressive Gothic Drawing Room and the grand Courtyard. The grounds provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and wedding photos. Eastnor also boasts luxurious guest accommodation within the castle itself, allowing your wedding to continue into a weekend retreat for you and your guests. eastnorcastle.com
The Savoy
LONDON thesavoylondon.com
Aname synonymous with luxury and elegance, The Savoy is one of London’s most prestigious hotels. Located on the banks of the River Thames, this five-star venue o ers a sophisticated and iconic setting for weddings. Why It’s Exceptional: The Savoy is famed for its Art Deco glamour and impeccable service. It o ers several rooms for ceremonies and receptions, including the spectacular Lancaster Ballroom and the intimate River Room with stunning views of the Thames.
Kasia Fiszer
NOTES INTERIORS
Ideas, designs and styles for your home
By PENDLE HARTE
DE SIGN SKILL
UNCANNY STUDIO
Everybody is raving about Uncanny Studio, a new creative design practice with o ces in Paris and London. Their architectural language is marked by open volumes, gentle curves and striking juxtapositions of texture and tone, as seen in this lovely Maida Vale apartment project.
uncanny-studio.com
THE WALL
CURIOUSA
Award-winning lighting studio Curiousa has launched a playful new bathroom wall lighting collection. Pastello combines practical task lighting with warm, ambient glows to turn bathrooms into vibrant, mood-enhancing sanctuaries. curiousa.co.uk
HERITAGE STYLE
THE CONRAN SHOP
Designed by Francis Sultana for The Conran Shop, the Tamilla Collection draws on the brand’s heritage and the vision of Sir Terence Conran. Recognised as one of the world’s leading interior and furniture designers, Sultana brings his distinctive approach to form and materiality across the series. Armchair, £1,595. theconranshop.com
TAKE FIVE
Christmas crackers
Nutcracker crackers, box of six, £22.99 giselagraham.co.uk
Two Heads Are Better Than One is a sculptural shelf with bookends created by Donna Wilson as part of a collection of handmade objects that poetically respond to the pressures of everyday life. £5,400 scp.co.uk
AUTUMN SPICE
DIPTYQUE
Diptyque’s autumn Pumpkin candle has notes of chestnuts and spices abound, carrying inspiration from the classic pumpkin pie. It's available until 13 November... and a er that, there'll be a Christmas candle. diptyqueparis.com
ROCKETT ST GEORGE
Set of six luxury Milagro crackers, £45 rockettstgeorge.co.uk
GISELA GRAHAM
MER MERI
Liberty velvet bow crackers, £38 merimeri.co.uk
ON THE BALL JONATHAN ADLER
Elevate your pickleball game
Jonathan Adler's Eden set. Paddles are printed with stylish serpents and have leather-wrapped handles, while stylish printed canvas covers keep your equipment clean and tidy between matches. £175 jonathanadler.com
FACT CHECKER ADDISON ROSS
New to Addison's collection of colourful homewares is a range of beautifully fi nished lacquered backgammon sets in four colourways. Perfect as a luxe gi , £295. addisonross.com
CHECK MATE CONRAN
The minimalist Milos chess set is handcra ed in Greece. Each chess piece is carved from tulip wood and the board features a storage compartment for your chess pieces. £350 theconranshop.com
SHAKE IT OFF NOT ANOTHER BILL
This luxurious Perudo set comprises tactile suede-lined leather cups and weighty dice. Choose from orange or navy, and add initials or a name to the lid for extra appeal. £120 notanotherbill.com
PICK A CARD KIT KEMP
Kit Kemp's Our Furry Friends playing cards showcase a watercolour illustration of Kit’s beloved pups, housed in a sleek acrylic box with magnet corners. £25 kitkemp.com
FADED GLAMOUR My
in the city GLAMOUR
Pearl Lowe
's new
home is a west London flat that's smaller than her country house but just as stylish
When Danny and I decided to move back to London, all but one of our children having flown the nest, we began looking in East London for a small house that would be big enough for the two of us and our youngest daughter Betty. I had envisaged something akin in style, though smaller in scale, to our beloved house in Camden, North London that we sold in 2005, when we upped sticks to fulfil our dreams of raising our children in the countryside. When our initial searches proved fruitless, we began to look further afield, which is how we ended up in West London, a stone’s throw from Portobello Road.
When this property came up for sale –coincidentally, just around the corner from my very first flat, where I lived more than 30 years ago – I went to view it on my own. I thought, I’ll just look at it, but I don’t think it’s going to be right. It is tiny, at only 880sq ft/81.75sq m, but it’s got high ceilings and is unusual for a London flat because it doesn’t have a shared entrance. As soon as I stepped inside, I thought: ‘Oh, wow!’ I was taken aback by the height of the ceilings and the feeling of grandeur. The owner had used the space as a therapy room since 1995, so it felt like a very healing space. It hadn’t been decorated for years, and had all the original period features that I love, but it needed work, and that’s exactly what I wanted.
I’ve never done up a flat before, so this has been a new challenge for me. Somehow a house is more forgiving, as there are more rooms to try things out and fit things in, whereas with a flat you have to make the space work hard and think about every little detail.
Originally, I had grand plans to divide up the openplan living space, which stretches from the front to the back of the building, using a set of beautiful double doors, and to make the back part, with its soaring ceiling, into our bedroom. I thought it would make a fabulously romantic space, complete with an antique bed and freestanding bathtub. What is now our bedroom could have been a cute little kitchen, and the bathroom would have become a spacious shower room. However, Danny was adamant that we shouldn’t
reconfigure it that way and I lost the argument.
What we did agree on was that we didn’t want it to look too much like a traditional kitchen, as it’s part of the main space that you first walk into, but more like a bar or diner – fun and glamorous. We always work closely with deVOL to design our kitchens and were fortunate enough to do so here, too. The cabinets (finished in Farrow & Ball’s Mizzle), sink, appliances, marble-topped butcher’s table and bar stools are all from there.
The worktop is a stunning greyish green quartz with brown and red veins running through it, which we sourced from a great supplier in Frome, Somerset. We used one of my antique French lace curtains to screen the open shelves, a pair of antique lights from the cabin at our beach house and some gorgeous mirrored tiles from Fired Earth that make a unique splashback and add a decadent touch. I filled the shelves and surfaces with my favourite decorative objects –floral pictures, nudes and portraits of women, ceramics, glass bottles, taxidermy and feathers. I’m a maximalist through and through, and ever-changing displays bring me such joy.
Much to Danny’s dismay, I insisted on tearing up the engineered-wood flooring, as I love the character and texture that old floorboards lend to a space. One day when he wasn’t there I asked the builders to pull it up, and underneath were these beautiful floorboards. They were, however, a rather unsightly shade of orange and it took several weeks to install the required insulation, re-lay the floorboards and sand and stain them a rich dark brown – quite a palaver, but totally worth the e ort.
We bought the flat in November and making decorating decisions during the winter months definitely influenced the colour palette. We’ve gone for rich, soft, warm tones that feel cosy and cocooning – shades of brown, pink, green, russet, red and mustard. We had set our hearts on painting the walls of the main living space in Potted Shrimp by Farrow & Ball, a lovely
shade of blush pink, but after applying just one coat it looked so brown that we had to repaint it in the lighter shade of Setting Plaster, which brings a warm glow to the room. It looks stunning against the brown wood floor, the Mizzle-painted units and woodwork/trim, and the rich, spicy shades of our velvet-covered sofas and chairs from Soho Home. I absolutely love using vintage rugs to add colour, pattern and softness underfoot, and I found a couple of fabulous ones on Etsy that tie all the colours together. The bedrooms are snug and enveloping spaces, inviting a restful night’s sleep. I designed our bedroom around the gorgeous antique emperor-size French bed, which turned out to be a bit bigger than I had anticipated and almost didn’t fit.
It’s dressed with the softest pink bed linen from Piglet in Bed and a beautiful bedspread that I bought from Helen Parker, the Creative Director at deVOL. The walls are painted in chocolaty Salon Drab, again from Farrow & Ball, and I edged them with a wonderful bobble trim that I found in Shepherd’s Bush Market. It’s really pretty and unexpected, and finishes o the room perfectly.
The standout feature of my daughter’s room is the pair of stunning bell-shaped pink glass wall lights from Rothschild & Bickers. As soon as I spotted them, with their playful fringing, I knew they would work well. They’re such beautiful jewellike objects and they make the room feel magical. We originally painted the walls pink, but it felt a bit boring, so I had them lined with Mulberry Home’s striking Somerton Stripe wallpaper in russet, and I love the depth that it brings to the space.
We completely gutted the main bathroom and replaced the window with star-patterned frosted glass. The centrepiece is the gorgeous tub from BC Designs. It’s a huge 180cm/71in and I love it. I was away when it was delivered and the builder FaceTimed me saying, ‘The bathtub is too big!’ I said, ‘It needs
to fit, you’ve got to make it work.’ I’ve hung romantic white drapes around it, which I bought at Shepton Mallet flea market. The vintage-style marble sink is from deVOL – I’ve been coveting it for a very long time. We chose pink-and-white glazed rectangular tiles from Bert & May to create vertical stripes that accentuate the high ceiling. Both the walls and woodwork/trim are painted chalky pink – it’s so pretty and feels a bit Parisian. There’s something about a pink bathroom that is just so restful and uplifting.
I’m a great believer that if you see something you love, you should buy it, even if you don’t have a space for it yet. By the same token, you can’t rush things when you’re decorating with vintage. You have to learn the art of patience, as you never know when you will stumble across the perfect piece for your home.
I’ve always said that Danny and I get itchy feet – we like to move on every couple of yearws, but for now, this glamorous little London bolthole is ideal for us. I want to spend all my time here. It’s become my happy place in the beating heart of one of my favourite parts of the city.
Extract taken from Faded Glamour in the City by Pearl Lowe, published by CICO Books (£25)
We speak to architect Zac Monro about why modern homes are the unsung heroes of London’s housing stock
Photography BY FRENCH+TYE
For generations, Londoners have been infatuated with the romance of the Victorian terrace — high ceilings, bay windows, ornate fireplaces. But to architect Zac Monro, there are times when it feels like that nostalgia has gone far enough. “Victorian houses were made to sit in the dark next to a fire with a sweater on,” he laughs. “Modern homes were built looking at the sky.”
Monro, a self-confessed “brutalist at heart,” has spent the last decade coaxing beauty and comfort out of the capital’s most overlooked housing stock — the suburban postwar home. From ex-council terraces to boxy 1960s semis, his London-based practice
has built a reputation for transforming what many consider “ugly houses” into light-filled, sustainable homes fit for 21st-century living.
“People still think the 60s houses are flimsy because they’re ugly,” he says.
“But when you fit them out, they can be beautiful. They were designed for modern living — square, solid, built with the idea of space and sunlight. They don’t wobble.”
For Zac, the great myth of London housing is that the older it is, the better it must be. The practice also specialises in Victorian refurbishments, but the experience, he admits, can be punishing. “You get tired of the poor construction,” he says. “The plaster comes o , there’s damp brickwork, endless layers of stu . They were built to get wet and evaporate out — not to be airtight or insulated, so making
ENTRANCE TO RAM HOUSE, ZMA’S NEWLY COMPLETED PROJECT AT THE HEART OF THE DULWICH ESTATE
them sustainable is not straightforward.”
And for all that, the result, he argues, is often no more “wonderful” than what can be achieved with a mid-century home. “You can chase higher ceilings in a Victorian, but you’re still looking through little window frames. Our attitude to living and cooking today is much more attuned to the 1960s house.”
That attunement — to space, light, and flow — lies at the heart of Zac’s work. The postwar period, he believes, deserves a second look. “There’s a stigma that’s going away,” he says. “People are beginning to appreciate the value of 60s and 70s homes. They’re well built, adaptable, and grounded in optimism — and retrofitting them to meet today’s environmental demands is easier.”
His advice to house-hunters is pragmatic. “Look at the bomb map,” he suggests. “Find the pockets of housing that were rebuilt after the war. They’re usually a lot less expensive than the house next door. If you’re going to gut and redo it anyway, it’s a smart move.”
Unlike their Victorian counterparts, these postwar homes were conceived for life to be lived in motion — open-plan rooms, sightlines to the garden, sunlight as an architectural material. “The central premise of mid-century architecture was connection to the garden,” Zac says. “That’s the unique selling point. You can open the back, extend naturally, and the house still feels coherent.”
He cites his inspiration: Ernö Goldfinger’s Willow Road house, Geo ry Powell's Rossdale House, the Royal Festival Hall. “The Festival Hall is one of my favourite buildings in London,” he says. “It’s really come into its own — people understand it emotionally now, not just intellectually. Those spaces were brave and forward-looking. They still are.”
While working on his Channel 4 TV series ‘Inside Out Homes’ (now on Amazon), he and his partner bought and renovated a modest ex-council home. The experience, he says, “completely changed how we thought about British homes.”
Since then, his practice has championed the quiet potential of the suburban modernist
house — its honesty, its economy, its humanity. “A lot of what we’ve been doing over the last five years is working with these supposedly ugly houses,” he says.
“But when you strip them back and retrofit them properly, they’re some of the most sustainable, comfortable homes in the city.”
For Monro, good architecture begins not with style but with intimacy. “We get really involved with our clients,” he says.
“Where are you going to have breakfast? How does the light move through the day? How do you host a party?” He describes this process as “balancing the heritage of things” — whether that means preserving a mid-century façade or reimagining its layout for contemporary life.
His respect for the craftsmanship of the 1960s is pragmatic rather than nostalgic. “Generally, the construction in the 60s
was better than people realise — often better than the skill level in the Victorian era,” he says. “By the 80s and 90s things got weird — minimum-cost builds, paper-thin walls — but the 60s and 70s stock was solid. Mortgage surveyors rate it highly for a reason.”
Modern homes, he insists, aren’t just practical — they’re stimulating. “They were built for how we actually live,” he says. “They look up, not down. They connect you to the garden, the light, the sky. And that’s what we need more of.”
As London continues to evolve, Zac believes the city’s next architectural renaissance won’t come from restoring the past but from reimagining its mid-century future. “There's a di erence between traditional and timeless – if you’re able to put the style of the architecture second, it tends to put the human first.” z-m-a.co.uk
SEAMLESS INDOOR–OUTDOOR LIVING IN THE REAR COURTYARD OF RAM HOUSE
A ZMA SIGNATURE — PARK HOUSE, AS SEEN ON GRAND DESIGNS
Style the season
The Cult Black Friday Event
As the festive season nears, our homes become the backdrop for celebration, tables extend, chairs multiply and living spaces transform into the heart of the occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or the unexpected plusone, Cult’s Black Friday Event is the perfect time to refresh your home with design-led pieces that make entertaining e ortless, with up to 25% o everything.
THE MORE, THE MERRIER
Christmas gatherings begin around the table, where stories are shared, laughter flows, and memories are made. When your guest list grows, Cult’s extendable dining tables, including the Montreux, Ceva, Landon, and Caleb o er generous proportions and elegant design, adapting seamlessly to any occasion.
ALWAYS ROOM FOR ONE MORE
For those spontaneous festive invites, our 24hour dispatch means everyone has a seat at the table. Design-driven, stackable styles like the Madeleine, Willis, Gibson, and Weston bring flexibility without sacrificing style.
INVITING SPACES
Add comfort and a touch of luxe with plush velvet and bouclé upholstery in rich winter tones. From the curved Chaplin and Ivy swivel chairs to the irresistibly soft Cloud Armchair, or our Ava, Marie, and Hazel pou es, every piece adds warmth, texture, and timeless elegance, available at unmissable Black Friday prices.
STAY THE NIGHT IN STYLE
When the party runs late, Cult’s sofa beds ensure guests stay in comfort and style. The Diego, with built-in storage and bold colourways, or the Ava, in soft neutral bouclés, cappuccino, latte and stone, transform from statement seating to a sleep-ready haven in seconds.
HOST WITHOUT THE HASSLE
From flexible furniture and space-saving solutions to design-led details that spark conversation, Cult makes it easy to create a home that feels as good as it looks, and this Black Friday, it’s the perfect time to invest in the pieces you’ll love all year round.
Shop the Cult Black Friday Event with 25% o everything cultfurniture.com. Design-led living starts here.
no more WASTE
Max Lamb and Potato Head
Reimagine Homeware with Purpose
In Bali, waste doesn’t just pile up—it transforms. At Desa Potato Head, the creative village and cultural hub that has made “Good Times, Do Good” its mantra, discarded plastics, broken glass, and worn linens are no longer refuse. They’re raw material. They’re stories. And now, through a visionary collaboration with British designer Max Lamb, they’re a design collection that pushes the boundaries of what homeware can mean.
Potato Head’s Wasted: Collection 001, is a line of functional, intentional objects crafted entirely from waste. The collection is less a product launch than a design manifesto—a rethinking of how the things we live with are made, and what they say about us. This is the culmination of years of in-house experimentation at Desa Potato Head, which has quietly been building one of the most ambitious circular design ecosystems in the world. Since opening, the
Desa has achieved an astonishing 99.5% diversion from landfill, a feat accomplished not just by managing waste but by reimagining it. The team has turned trash into tiles, upcycled plastics into furniture, and transformed surplus food into compost that fuels gardens and dye baths.
With Wasted, that radical approach takes on a new, global dimension. The collection embodies a closed-loop system in which every object originates from something discarded, then reborn as something purposeful. It’s not recycling as we know it—it’s regeneration.
To bring this vision to life, Potato Head turned to Max Lamb, a London-based designer celebrated for his process-driven approach and deep respect for materials. Lamb’s work often straddles the line between craft and experiment, whether carving stone by hand or casting pewter in sand. With Potato Head, he found fertile ground for his material curiosity.
“Designers have a responsibility to justify every product we bring into the world,” Lamb explains. “With Wasted, we’re not just rethinking materials—we’re celebrating the human hands and knowledge that shape them.”
For five years, Lamb collaborated with Balinese artisans and Potato Head’s Waste Lab, exploring what could be made from the island’s detritus. The result is a collection that feels both global in vision and deeply rooted in place.
Collection 001 is organized into eight “material families,” each tied to a specific waste stream:
• Recycled HDPE plastics reborn as marbled chairs.
• Natural dyes from composted marigold and indigo, infusing fabrics with vibrant, living color.
• Retired hotel linens, given a second life through craft.
• Broken glass, reshaped by traditional mouth-blown techniques.
• Used cooking oil, transformed into refillable candles.
• Discarded ceramics, ground and reformed into new tableware.
• Composite materials like Styrofoam and oyster shells, pressed into experimental forms.
• Balinese bamboo, sustainably harvested and handwoven into lounge seating.
The methods are as diverse as the materials: weaving, glassblowing, ceramic glazing, plastic casting, and dyeing. Yet every object carries the same ethos—functional, poetic, and regenerative. A chair isn’t just a chair; it’s a second life for what once seemed useless.
No two pieces in the collection are exactly alike, and that’s intentional. By embracing the variability of waste, the collection resists uniformity in favor of authenticity. A marbled plastic stool might hold swirls of unexpected color; a handshaped ceramic plate might carry the subtle marks of its maker. The collection values imperfection, a radical shift in a world conditioned to mass-produced sameness.
Though Wasted is born in Bali, its vision is scalable. The model (collect local waste, transform it with local craft, and distribute globally) o ers a blueprint for communities worldwide. By tethering design to place, the project demonstrates how global consumption patterns can be disrupted by hyperlocal production.
Wasted is about more than homeware. It’s about reframing waste as possibility, about aligning design with responsibility, and about celebrating the intersection of global innovation and local tradition.
Max Lamb’s contribution ensures the project has a design pedigree, but the heart lies in the hands of Balinese artisans, whose skills anchor each object in heritage. Together, they’ve created not just products, but symbols—reminders that beauty can emerge from what we discard, and that design, at its best, is an act of regeneration.
As the world grapples with mounting environmental crises, Wasted arrives not as a solution, but as an invitation. To see di erently. To live di erently. To waste less, and to create more.
shop.potatohead.co
To truly appreciate the artistry and quality of Crown Pavilions, visit one of their UK show sites:
Longacres Garden Centre, Bagshot, Surrey
• Chessington Garden Centre, London
• Van Hage Garden Centre, Ware, Hertfordshire
• Frosts Garden Centre, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes
Great OUTDOORS
Exploring the world’s finest garden rooms, gazebos and equestrian buildings
At Crown Pavilions, they design and handcraft some of the world’s finest luxury gazebos, garden rooms, and equestrian buildings – where timeless British craftsmanship meets contemporary elegance. Founded on a passion for excellence, Crown Pavilions has become the UK’s leading name in outdoor living, trusted by thousands of discerning clients to create spaces that inspire relaxation, connection, and joy throughout every season. Every Crown Pavilion is meticulously built by their skilled craftsmen in Oxfordshire, using only the finest materials to achieve a perfect balance of beauty, comfort, and durability. Each structure embodies their celebrated Marque of Excellence – a promise that every detail, from precision joinery to finishing touches, meets the most exacting standards.
Whether it’s a tranquil garden retreat, a sophisticated home o ce, or an elegant space for entertaining, every design is completely bespoke. Their creations are
crafted to enhance your lifestyle, with results that blend indoor luxury with outdoor charm. Fully insulated, doubleglazed, and finished to residential standards, Crown Pavilions buildings are designed for year-round enjoyment, with optional underfloor heating and bespoke lighting ensuring comfort whatever the weather.
Beyond craftsmanship, it is the personal service that truly defines the Crown experience. From concept to completion, their expert team works closely with each client to bring their vision to life – o ering guidance, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to perfection. This tailored approach has earned them the loyalty of clients across the UK and beyond, including well-known figures who describe their work as “the best that money can buy”.
Expanding their expertise, the Crown brand also encompasses LN Construction, specialising in bespoke architectural extensions and large-scale residential spaces, and Crown Equestrian, creators of premium stables and equestrian facilities that embody strength, style, and longevity.
Alton Garden Centre, Essex Bridgemere Garden Centre, Cheshire
And now, for a limited time, Absolutely readers can enjoy an exclusive 10% OFF their order — applicable to all installations completed before March 2026
To invest in Crown Pavilions is to embrace more than a building — it is to choose a lifestyle defined by elegance, excellence, and enduring luxury.
Visit crownpavilions.com and crown-equestrian.com Call: 01491 612 820 Email: sales@crownpavilions.com
“When elegance meets warmth, a harmonious environment emerges”
CSPACE MAKER
A modern, warm and elegant project from CAO architects
AO, an architecture practice focused on modern, warm, and elegant spaces, has recently completed a project in Hackney. This project exemplifies their talent for creating sleek and minimalist environments that reflect cohesive design. By utilising natural materials and ensuring abundant natural light, CAO crafted a harmonious atmosphere. The natural colour palette of the interiors is complemented by bright accents in the fittings.
ELEGANCE AND WARMTH
These two elements are vital in designing spaces where people feel a sense of belonging, whether living, working, or passing through. Elegance emerges from careful attention to form, proportion, and materials, resulting in visually balanced and functional spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and functional. It embodies simplicity and unity, where every detail contributes to a refined yet approachable atmosphere. Warmth transcends aesthetics, evoking emotional responses through the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and textiles, which bring back memories. Large glazed openings are often essential as they invite natural light and create a connection with the outdoors, continuing the lines between inside and outside. Colour choices also play a significant role; soft, earthy tones make spaces feel inviting and cosy. The combination of elegance and warmth creates visually appealing environments that foster well-being. Thoughtful design choices, such as open layouts encouraging interaction or cosy corners for relaxation, further enhance this balance. When elegance meets warmth, a harmonious environment emerges, enriching everyday experiences.
VISION
CAO is committed to enhancing clients' briefs through the expert balance of form and function. The practice prioritises the use of durable materials and objects that perform as a cohesive whole. E orts are made to reuse salvaged materials or specify low-carbon alternatives, addressing the pressing issue of waste. The studio encourages clients to adopt sustainable practices for heating, cooling, and ventilation. This holistic approach aims to create spaces that are both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, while also being contextually appropriate. CAO takes pride in supporting clients in enacting change and bringing their visions to life.
"A great building must begin with the immeasurable, must go through measurable means when it is being designed, and in the end it must be unmeasured." -Louis Kahn
caolondon.com
ARTas a SAGE
Artworks as a path to the recognition of alert and aware Presence
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The dying and ascending self-sheddings skins to rise to life; Finding Stillness in the Inner Chaos; A Breath in Time
While artworks function as accents or intriguing, beautiful objects, the seek and representation of Carolin Rechberg’s work is also, ‘a call to awareness to a conscious presence’. A notion in her art is to stimulate an alertness through sense experience, which to her transfers to the behaviorism of the individual with life. The idea is that the encounter with art and its processes translates to an awareness of observing, of perceiving, of engaging with the experience of the moment. Rechberg’s artworks often spring from the ephemerality of the moment and speak to the importance of being attentive and alert. This is reflected in her ‘eye’. The demeanour with which she arrests images in her photography, the exploration of her marks in carving relief prints, or in the allowed freedom of gestural and performance focused painting, result
in works which ring from the experience with the artist's hand and presence. They are an embodiment of her whole persona, a continuum to her research in the engagement with the material and in-material.
Rechberg originates from Starnberg, Germany, and in her higher education has attained an Individualised Bachelor of Fine Art from the California College of the Arts. To pursue her studies of art further she attended the San Francisco Art Institute where she received her Masters in Drawing and Painting. While continuing her interdisciplinary focus, she taught as a Teaching Assistant to Jeremy Morgan in Advanced Drawing and Painting. Through the recognition of art as a vehicle to a greater understanding of life, its systems and patterns at work both in the natural and human world, and the importance and beneficial multi-sensory encounter in the process of art, Rechberg pursued a second Master of Art and Art Education at Teachers College Columbia University. There she also
managed the Printmaking Studios for an in-depth specialisation in the printmaking processes and assisted Dr Mahbobe Ghods in the courses of Etching, Lithography, Relief Print and Silkscreen. Resonance she found in ‘The Making and Knowing Project an initiative from the Center for Science and Society at Columbia University’ led by Professor Pamela H. Smith, ‘that explores the intersections between artistic making and scientific knowing.’ Rechberg’s work has been exhibited and published internationally, and spans the mediums of ceramics, drawing, illustration, installation, music, painting, performance art, photography, poetry, printmaking, sculpture, sound and voice work. She is currently establishing her independent Art Studio and Business in Murnau am Sta elsee, Germany. Rechberg’s artworks can be seen on her website, and she will launch a new online shop later in the year to share new art, as well as her body of work from the last 20 years.
carolinrechberg.com
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE:
Contemplation Stone; Awoken by the warming Sun; The Language of Paint; Marginal Men
Step into a world where craftsmanship meets creativity. Harvey Jones has been handcrafting luxury bespoke kitchens and furniture for the home, for almost 50 years, and now, our Guildford showroom has been beautifully refreshed, o ering even more inspiration, expertise, and timeless design.
Located just o the cobbled charm of Tunsgate, our newly updated space is more than a showroom, it’s a celebration of what’s possible. Here, you’ll find curated displays showcasing our most-loved kitchen collections, from the classic elegance of Shaker to the sleek sophistication of
Bespoke kitchen designer Harvey Jones has five London showrooms – plus a newly relaunched one in Guildford
Linear. Each one is handcrafted, handpainted, and made to last for generations.
What makes a Harvey Jones kitchen truly di erent? Every project is completely bespoke to you – your lifestyle, your tastes, your space. We do one-of-a-kind, built with care and designed in close partnership with you.
From clever storage solutions to bold colour palettes and luxurious finishes, our designers obsess over the details that elevate your everyday. Whether you’re dreaming of a sociable island for family breakfasts, a walkin pantry for seamless organisation, or a show-stopping entertaining space, we’ll help bring it to life, beautifully and thoughtfully.
And while our reputation is built on kitchens, we’re proud to create elegant
cabinetry for spaces beyond the kitchen too – utility rooms, boot rooms, home o ces, pet spaces and more. Every detail reflects the same dedication to thoughtful design and lasting quality.
Visiting our Guildford showroom is the perfect first step to bringing your dream kitchen to life. You’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and a fresh co ee before sitting down for a complimentary design appointment. No pressure, just expert advice and inspiring ideas to start shaping your vision
Visit us: 9 Tunsgate, Guildford GU1 3QT Book your complimentary design appointment: 01483 352 054 harveyjones.com
TRAVEL SNOW
QUEENS
CORVARA IN BADIA
Everyone who's skied in the Dolomites agrees that the region is a delight: the slopes, the scenery, the food and even the colourful gondolas make it a fantastic place to ski. We visit Corvara and stay at Hotel Sassongher, which has easy access to slopes for all abilities. sassongher.it
ON THE SLOPES
Looking for a ski destination that’s right for skiers of di erent levels? The Dolomites’ Corvara in Badia o ers something for everyone, as Absolutely discovers
It’s easy to feel excluded from skiing if you didn’t grow up on the slopes. As an adult with lots of enthusiasm but limited experience, a ski holiday is a tricky proposition, and it’s important to get the destination right. If your group has a range of di erent abilities, at least you want to be able to meet for lunch, right? So finding somewhere with nursery slopes for beginners, blues for people like me and blacks for the more adventurous is key. And Corvara, in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, caters to skiers of all abilities, from absolute beginners to seasoned experts.
Situated within the Alta Badia ski area and part of the vast Dolomiti Superski region, Corvara o ers access to over 1,200 kilometers of interconnected slopes, ensuring a diverse and exciting skiing experience for everyone. In the village, Hotel Sassonger is an endearingly authentic mountain hotel. It’s family run, which is apparent throughout, from the diverse and often eccentric collection of art and artefacts (think hunting trophies, stag heads, a doll collection) to the friendly team (and don’t miss the collection of family photographs that show the hotel’s evolution since it opened in the 1930s). Sta speak Ladin, the mountain language that has about 30,000 native speakers in and around the South Tyrol – but of
course, they’re fluent in Italian, German and English too. Rooms are comfortable and traditional with lots of wood, luxurious duvets and modern comforts. In the bar there’s a pianist. And the food is a highlight: a vast bu et is on display alongside an a la carte menu, and the idea is to have it all. Local cuisine is hearty mountain fare with an Italian slant, and a focus on venison. We’re fitted for skis and helmets as soon as we arrive, and stash our kit in the hotel’s basement ski room, ready for our morning classes. A quick drive to the ski lift and we’re on the slopes, where stylish yellow and orange bubble-shaped gondolas seem somehow very glamorously Italian. The backdrop is impressive - the craggy Dolomites emerge as vast rocks,
Words PENDLE HARTE
HOTEL SASSONGHER
empty of snow at their peaks, while underfoot the snow is crisp and perfect. Skies are perfectly blue and conditions are excellent: the slopes are wide and queues are minimal. Our instructor tells us that he’s a cowboy in Tuscany during the summer, and he splits his year between horses and skiing. It’s a story that seems very exotic to our urban group. For lunch we head to Piz Arlara on the other side of the village, a dreamy sunny spot full of skiers drinking Aperol Spritz and eating vast schnitzels. From here we can see the famous Sellaronda
circuit, a stunning ski route that loops around the Sella massif. This well-marked route o ers a full day’s adventure with varying terrain, picturesque views, and plenty of mountain huts for breaks.
Corvara is a particularly welcoming destination for beginner skiers. The village itself sits at a relatively gentle altitude, and the local slopes are wide, well-groomed, and easy to access. An abundance of blue runs makes it an ideal environment for learning and building confidence. The Col Alto and Piz Sorega areas provide long, scenic runs that are forgiving and fun for new skiers.
The Alta Badia region also features long red runs with just the right amount of challenge. For advanced skiers, I hear that there are some thrilling black runs, as well as o -piste opportunities in the surrounding peaks. Plus, the nearby slopes of Arabba and Val Gardena are easily reachable with steeper descents and deep snow for adrenaline seekers.
Back at Sassongher, we visit the impressive rooftop spa, soaking our tired muscles in the outdoor hottub with its mountain views. Beyond the slopes, Corvara's charming alpine village atmosphere, modern lift systems, and stunning UNESCO-listed mountain scenery enhance the experience for all visitors. With its perfect blend of accessibility, variety, and beauty, Corvara stands out as a ski destination that welcomes every level of skier.
Hotel Sassongher o ers Comfort Rooms from €280 per night, based on two adults sharing on a half-board basis. sassongher.it/en/
CORVARA IN BADIA
HOTEL SASSONGHER'S ROOFTOP SAUNA
SPECTACULAR VIEWS FROM THE HOT TUB
in the Derbyshire Peak District
w Lodges sleep 2 - 8 people
w Perfect for couples, families & celebrations
w Hot tubs available
w Pet friendly
To
w Health & fitness centre
w Restaurant & bar
w Woodland location
w Visit the Peak District
w Activities for all ages
w Soft play centre
w Mini golf, tennis & games room
w Cycle hire & nature trails
LIGHTS
“What seem like a million twinkling lights bring the festive season to life while a gospel choir takes things to a higher plane”
Lake Como's Villa d'Este is a showstopper at any time of year, but at Christmas time it is magic
By
SANDY CADIZ-SMITH
it’s an irresistible combination of serene landscapes and refined Italian style, making Lake Como one of Europe’s most enchanting and glamorous destinations.
And nowhere is this more apparent than at the legendary hotel Villa d’Este on the shores of the lake in the village of Cernobbio. Since 1893, this five-star resort has been one of the most celebrated worldwide. And now the hotel is pulling out all the stops to create a Christmas wonderland with a dazzling light display – an extravaganza that we’re going to be part of.
Perfectly positioned in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como is a shimmering jewel of northern Italy, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and timeless glamour. The lake’s deep blue waters
reflect the surrounding peaks and lush, cypress-lined hillsides, while elegant villas and terraced gardens cascade down to the water’s edge. Long a retreat and inspiration for artists, aristocrats, and Hollywood stars, including George and Amal Clooney, the Versace family, and Richard Branson,
Villa d’Este is a short drive from Milan (just 30 minutes), and the first glimpse of Lake Como, shimmering and serene, elicits a quiet gasp of wonder. The first of many. As the grand wrought-iron gates to our hotel swing open, they reveal a tree-lined drive that winds gracefully toward the arrival court, where a stately fountain welcomes us.
From that very first moment, there’s an undeniable sense that we’ve arrived somewhere exceptional. Stepping through the entrance into the majestic reception hall, our gaze is immediately drawn outward, where the lake reveals itself once again. Lake Como is not merely a backdrop here, it is a constant, breathtaking presence – as much a part of the experience as the hotel itself.
Before long we’re seated in the Green House restaurant enjoying a mouthwatering plate of homemade pasta with tru es (it’s tru e season after all) and a glass of crisp white wine while we soak up those views. Everything faces lakeward, including our large and rather grand junior suite. The tall
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT VILLA D'ESTE
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS IN THE GREENHOUSE
windows (with balconies) let in the light and lake vistas, the carpets are plush underfoot, and the exquisite antique furniture adds a timeless grandeur. Our suite’s centrepiece is an oversized bed, and there’s a gleaming marble bathroom to marvel at. Everything you'd expect from Italian luxury, but we can’t linger too long as we’re here for the hottest ticket around – the exclusive lighting ceremony and cocktail party.
“At Villa D'Este there's even a chocolate room where we can indulge in the stu to the sound of live harp music”
Nothing is done in small measure at Villa d’Este. Their Christmas light extravaganza has been on everyone’s lips for months. It is not easy to get an invitation, and the planning has been extensive. We’re in glamorous company as we gather in anticipation below the curve of the spiral staircase, champagne in hand. With the flick of a switch, the lights burst to life, and Villa d’Este is turned into a magical, sparkling fairyland. What seem like a million twinkling lights bring the festive season to life and happiness to everyone’s hearts while a gospel choir takes things to a higher plane. Truly something special. Aside from the lighting ceremony, undoubtedly the star of our November Villa d’Este show, we also enjoy exceptional food. Along with tru es on demand, we enjoy the best of Italian wine (the list is like a connoisseur’s encyclopaedia). We indulge in a relaxing facial in one of the nearby villas that belong to the hotel and try out tasty Italian small plates in the jazz club
listening to a charming and talented local singer. There’s even an elegant chocolate room where we can indulge in the stu , along with pastries and afternoon tea, to the sound of live harp music. It is quite magical. We take to the lake one sunny afternoon for a boat tour with Vaporina. That legendary gleaming woodwork and cream leather seats make anyone feel like Hollywood royalty. There's also a discreet opportunity to villa-spot some of the area's most exclusive enclaves. Everything seems even more spectacular from the water as we whizz across its sparkling surface with the wind in our hair, taking in mountain views and gorgeous homes. Best view of all is when we pass the place we’ve very quickly come to call home. Sitting majestically on the shore, Villa d’Este doesn't just live up to the hype, it exceeds it, and go during the festive season and you’ll be well on your way to your best Christmas yet.
villadeste.com
VILLA D'ESTE'S IMPRESSIVE LOBBY
POOL ON THE LAKE
Island LIFE
Why Niko Seaside Resort in Crete is an ideal honeymoon spot
By EVE HERBERT
NIKO Seaside Resort in Crete is a sophisticated adults-only hideaway that feels designed with couples in mind. Set along the coast of Agios Nikolaos, it o ers a kind of modern calm that’s increasingly rare—minimal fuss, no children, and a setting that invites you to slow down and pay attention to the small details. The resort’s position over Mirabello Bay gives it a cinematic backdrop: clear light, endless blue, and a sense that everything moves at a gentler pace.
The mood here is quietly luxurious rather than showy. The architecture blends slate, glass, and pale wood with soft blues and greens drawn from the sea. It’s not the kind of place that shouts for attention; instead, it creates an atmosphere where couples can unwind without distraction. Many of the 137 rooms and suites come with private plunge pools or terraces, giving you that simple pleasure of privacy—breakfast by the water, a swim at sunset, a drink in silence. The design connects everything back to the landscape; even from the corridors, the sea is always within view.
Dining at NIKO matches the same understated aesthetic. The focus is on Cretan and Mediterranean food made with precision rather than excess—grilled seafood, local olive oil, clean flavours. The open terraces and candlelit spaces make dinner feel like part of the scenery rather than a staged event. You can easily spend a whole evening here without feeling you’ve missed out on anything beyond the resort walls.
Still, being just minutes from the centre of Agios Nikolaos means you don’t have to stay in your own little bubble unless you want to. The town has a mix of waterfront
cafés, small boutiques, and the photogenic Lake Voulismeni, where locals gather in the evenings. It’s the kind of place where you can wander without a plan—have a drink, watch the fishing boats come in, and then return to the quiet rhythm of your room. Service at NIKO tends to be personal without being intrusive. Sta remember names, o er thoughtful touches, and occasionally surprise guests with small gestures—wine, chocolates, a handwritten note. What makes NIKO particularly suited to honeymoons isn’t just the luxury; it’s the balance between simplicity and indulgence. For couples looking for somewhere that feels both modern and human, NIKO Seaside Resort o ers a calm, grown-up version of paradise—less about posing for the perfect photo and more about the kind of comfort that lingers.
nikoseasideresort.com
HURTWOOD
IB Diploma orA levels
Should you choose A levels or the IB Diploma?
Amelia Buckworth, Education Manager at Quintessentially Education, clears up 10 common myths and misunderstandings surrounding this important sixth form choice
1. IB Diploma is harder
This is a pervasive myth, particularly in the UK. Certainly, the IBDP has a wider range of subjects to cover than the typical three or four within A levels – one of the reasons it has earned the reputation of being challenging. This is further perpetuated by student reports that some schools o ering the IBDP hand select the students deemed ‘academically able’ to study the IB programme.
Both A levels and the IBDP are academically rigorous and demanding. So, the question should be which option best suits me. While some students prefer the breadth of the IBDP, others enjoy the depth and focus of A levels. This makes it important to consider the best fit for you when choosing between the two.
2. A levels narrow learning options
This is a common charge. By choosing only three or four subjects, students are forced to decide their academic direction too early. It’s true that A levels are extremely focused, but the core skills learnt are transferable to a broad range of university subjects and career pathways. A focus on specific subjects in great depth helps students who might feel overwhelmed with a broader subject load and can be useful for candidates considering specific
subject areas (medicine, veterinary science, engineering, computer science, for instance). By building an excellent foundational knowledge, well-chosen A levels provide building block towards continued learning. Many schools o ering A levels also o er the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This large-scale independent project on a subject chosen by the student increases independent study skills and breadth of learning. It may also count towards UCAS points, although not all universities accept EPQs so do check.
3. The IB is too generalist
One of the great strengths of the IBDP is also considered by some to be a weakness. They argue that English Literature texts, for example, can only be covered superficially because there are so many, so students don’t develop the essay writing skills required by A level. Certainly, IBDP rewards pupils who are good at everything, so if you excel at Maths, say, but are weaker at English and foreign languages, A levels might be your better pathway to top results.
4. IB is a better preparation for university
It is often said that the IBDP o ers a more rounded approach to pre-university education. The breadth of subjects and the additional components within the IBDP
foster skills such as critical thinking and interdisciplinary connections. Some say this sets students up better for the independent study that undergraduate courses require.
On the other hand, A levels also require critical thinking and are excellent at preparing for university because students typically have fewer timetabled hours than their IBDP counterparts. They are therefore encouraged to become independent learners and to organise their own time – essential skills for the approach to teaching and learning at university.
5. The IB is just for students at international schools
This is a complete myth. The last 20 years or so has seen many of the UK’s top schools adopt the IBDP, often alongside A levels. To give specifics, 200 of the 2,600 independent schools in the UK now o er the IBDP at sixth form. Those include London day schools such as Godolphin & Latymer and King’s College Wimbledon, alongside schools such as Rugby and Cheltenham Ladies’ College.
6. British universities prefer A levels
While it is true that A levels are the more traditional route to a UK university, the IBDP is a globally recognised qualification. Most British
“In many instances, you have an equal chance of entering an international university with A-level qualifications as with the IB”
universities now recognise the IBDP as equal to A levels, as indicated by the fact entry requirements are listed on the main pages of their websites (other curricula are found under the ‘international student’ sections). The key element in any university application is a requirement to meet minimum criteria for a particular course of study – both IBDP and A-level pathways determine this.
7. The IBDP is preferred by international universities
One common misconception is that you must study the IBDP if you want to apply to international universities. The IBDP is certainly recognised the world over, and its breadth means it sits well with applicants considering a Liberal Arts degree in the US, for example. But A levels are well known and respected, too.
In many instances, you have an equal chance of entering an international university. Just be sure to check for prerequisites, as breadth of subject matter may be more challenging for applications to certain regions.
8. You can’t do IB MYP and then switch to A levels
The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11-16 is much less common than the Diploma in the UK (currently taught in 35 predominantly international schools). Rather like the Diploma, it focuses on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. In the final year of the MYP (Year 11) each student develops a personal project which is externally validated. Historically there were no written exams, as such. The MYP eAssessment was launched in 2016 and is an optional external
assessment giving the opportunity to earn an internationally recognised certificate. This can help smooth the transition for students moving from the MYP to A levels.
9. IB teaches you how to think, A levels are about regurgitating facts
This is the greatest misconception of all. Both A levels and the IBDP require intense independent study and enable students to apply to the world’s best universities. Because A-level students focus on subjects they are passionate about, they are motivated to think critically and deepen their understanding.
10. It’s best to choose a sixth form offering both
t might be tempting to keep options open and look for a sixth form that o ers both IBDP and A levels – many top independent schools do – but this isn’t necessarily your best option. Running both IBDP and A-level programmes is challenging to timetable and expensive for schools.
From a student perspective, it makes better sense to decide which pathway you want to take and then opt for a sixth form that o ers your preferred study route.
MAKING A
MARK
Eltham College students in the news
From running relays in China to winning a national chess crown, Eltham College students have been making their mark not just locally but across the world.
Alongside academic performance, the London independent school is well known for its rich o ering of co-curricular activities, and these have brought about some standout moments in recent months. Hot on the heels of being crowned British Girls Under 12 Champion at the Chess Championships in Liverpool, Year 7 pupil Yueci was selected to represent England at the 2025 European Youth Championship this month. Sixth former George, rising star in the world of tabletop strategy, likewise earned a prestigious place on the England Juniors Blood
Bowl team to compete at the European Open. Meanwhile, in collaboration with local school St Thomas More, students performed their own version of the play 100 at the Camden Fringe, while others travelled to Uganda in support of the charity International Needs, spending time in particular working with students at Buikwe Secondary School. Back home, the school announced an exciting partnership with Super
“The school is well known for its rich o ering of co-curricular activities”
League netball franchise London Pulse, opening up access to top-flight training and coaching for both Eltham’s students and sta and bringing a wealth of opportunity for talented netball players in the local community. And after becoming fully co-educational in all year groups in 2024, the school’s first-ever girls’ 1st XI hockey team made history, finishing runners-up in the Under 18 “Mel Clewlow” Kent County Championships at Eltham’s inaugural outing.
Making history on the other side of the world, students and sta were honoured to take part alongside local runners in an international cultural peace initiative held by Weifang city, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the wartime death there of Eric Liddell— Olympic gold medallist of Chariots of Fire fame, missionary, and former Eltham College pupil.
