LIFESTYLE ISSU E TH RE E * 2017
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OUR GUIDE TO THE WYE VALLEY & CHELTENHAM C E L E B R AT I N G T H E C O T S W O L D S , H E R E F O R D S H I R E , G L O U C E S T E R S H I R E , F O R E S T O F D E A N & W Y E V A L L E Y
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Quality touches
Aspirational homes in desirable locations Visit one of our show homes or call us for a brochure www.freemanhomes.co.uk or 01594 543 354
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PHOTO CREDITS: ALL DEVELOPMENT & HOMES PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVIDRIERAPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK, PIXELFIT/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, TBRADFORD/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM. COVER IMAGE: FAMVELD/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
hat a wonderful time of year this is as the seasons change and we take stock of life. Whether you’re thinking of upsizing or downsizing, a change of scenery, or taking your first step onto the property ladder - we’ve got all bases covered right here. Of course we’re biased, but there really is nothing quite like moving into a brand new home – a true blank canvas you can make your own! We are passionate about the areas we build in, so this issue we explore The Wye Valley and Cheltenham both just a stone’s throw away from some of our new and upcoming developments. Learn more about our homes in Northleach and what village life in The Cotswolds has to offer; history rich Weston-under-Penyard sits just outside Ross-on-Wye; and the postcard perfect black and white Herefordshire village of Weobley. Read our ‘Top Ten Locally Sourced Tipples’ feature to get a flavour for the regions collection of micro-breweries and distilleries, some of which can be toured. Our very own Mill Race village pub enters the autumn winter season with an exciting new management team who are ready for the festive period. Walk the Cotswold Way with travel writer Lucy Grewcock and explore Chester with the Romans in our travel features. Finally, we help remove the stress from house buying with our next instalment of ‘Why Buy New’. Enjoy the read and we’ll be back with you in the spring!
38 33 CONTENTS 2 INSIDE VIEW
18 DEVELOPMENT FEATURE
Behind the doors at MF Freeman
The Westwoods & Westcombe Place, Northleach
4 LUST LIST
22 DEVELOPMENT FEATURE
Unique gift ideas
Oaklands Holt, Weobley
6 EXPLORE
24 DEVELOPMENT FEATURE
The Wye Valley
Ariconium Place, Weston-under-Penyard
8 EXPLORE Cheltenham
27 GARDENING Autumn planting
10 ASK AN EXPERT Cast iron wood burners
12 ARCHITECT
Luke Freeman & The Lifestyle Team. Please contact us with any editorial or advertising enquiries at marketing@mffreeman.co.uk. We’re online! For a digital edition
of Lifestyle go to www.issuu.com/mffreeman.
Freeman Retirement Living
15 WHY BUY NEW Remove the stress
17 FINANCE
THE TEAM
Elections and the property market
Emma
28 TOP LOCAL TIPPLES Distilleries and micro breweries to tour this autumn
31 FOOD & DRINK The Mill Race Village Pub
33 WELL BEING Action follows intention
34 TRAVEL Walking the Cotswold Way
37 CITY BREAK A weekend in Chester Louisa
Rebecca
Hayley
38 SHOPPING 14 fantastic winter warmers
CONTENT Louisa Evans, Emma Shotton, Rebecca Jenkins, & Hayley Coombs
DESIGN & ART DIRECTION Jones Design Create info@jonesdesigncreate.com
PRINT Cambrian Printers Ltd
40 INTERIOR TIPS Choosing the right dining table
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SUBSCRIPTION OFFER Turn to page 11 for more info.
BE H I N D T H E D O OR S AT M F F RE E MA N We talk to the Freeman family to find out the inspiration behind MF Freeman in the early days, the people behind the business today and where the company is heading in the future.
FROM THE BEGINNING
Back in 1966 how did the business begin? MERVYN: I started agricultural contracting. We then bought a JCB and a drott and the plant hire and civil engineering developed from there. JENNY: I was working as a Mervyn and Jenny. laboratory assistant back then so I used to do all the paperwork and fetching spare parts on the weekend, and I had a couple of other jobs as well… it was quite busy. So who did what? MERVYN: We each do what we’re good at. Jen did the office work and I did the nuts and bolts and really that hasn’t changed. How did it evolve from being just the two of you into a larger concern? MERVYN: In the sixties we were struggling to get going and we started doing work for Westbury Estates in the seventies and it was then that we got married. We built a house in the village and started doing ground works. At that point we were employing 20-25 people.
the fact that’s still a part of what we do. I enjoy coming to work and as long as I’ve got good people around me, which I have, then I’m happy. Did you envisage at the start, what it would become today? MERVYN: No, how could you? We took opportunities when they came up. We took our first big job in 1986 at Ross Cattle Market and the new Somerfield’s Warehouse which was worth £2.5 million back then. So what do you make of the business today and the areas it’s grown into? MERVYN: It’s great to see, at the end of
The family in 1989.
Did you always want to be in business? MERVYN: I suppose back then I didn’t really know what I wanted to be, I enjoyed farming and wanted to be a farmer so I like
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the day we do a good job and this is why we have been able to grow the group into what it is today with everyone’s contribution. The group has grown in line with different interests and passions from family members which is key to running a successful family business. JENNY: I think we have successfully grown because, right from the beginning in all our work from day one, we did everything well. We always maintained high standards and that remains today. These high standards have been adopted across all our divisions. Was it always the plan to have your children come into the business? MERVYN: It’s obviously something that you always hope will happen, but you never know and you can’t force them. We’re lucky that Luke and his partner Hayley, Richard and his wife Emma and Rebecca did want to and they are all focusing on what they enjoy. They have different interests and they all get on really well growing their own areas of the business. JENNY: We enjoy working alongside each other and we also enjoy family holidays as well. We all go together, including the grandchildren.
Award-winning homes at The Close, Llangrove.
A LOOK AT TODAY From those early days it’s plain to see that dedication and hard work grew the business from Luke. great foundations. The family now operate divisions in housebuilding, leisure, farming, contracting and plant hire. We talk to Luke Freeman, Joint CEO, who joined the contracting team 21 years ago and then shortly afterwards established the homes division, to understand what the future holds. PIONEERS AND INNOVATORS What is the secret of today’s successes and the growth of Freeman Homes? LUKE: The key is innovation. For me that means that we are always looking to improve and always looking to be the best at what we do. We focus on building bespoke award winning homes that are different from other house builders and that
ICONIC HOMES AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE How are the homes you build different? LUKE: We place great emphasis on quality craftsmanship and that is the most important thing. We listen to our customers and then design homes around what they say matters to them. We make sure we are forward thinking in the design of the homes to accommodate how people like to live and will always look to do so. Some of the main areas that stand us apart from other house builders are the generous room sizes and the superior finishes in every home. It always comes back to doing a good job well, that’s how the company started 50 years ago and that’s how it will continue for the next 50 years and beyond.
And the future? LUKE: Our vision is to grow our retirement living and homes divisions to deliver a greater number of developments and our goal is to double our turnover in the next five years. Whilst we grow it is important for us to maintain the culture and values that have been the key to our success over the years. More importantly for us is thinking about the outputs How do you ensure that you of our leadership and what we always remain innovative? are creating. Our vision of LUKE: We employ people “Building for a Better JOI N that enjoy creating Future” means we will be THE TEAM something new and building on what we We’re always looking for who thrive on coming have achieved in the great people. Get in touch up with new ideas and past by focusing on at workforus@ they are then nurtured. ensuring that we deliver mffreeman.co.uk As a team we look to do outputs which are better everything differently and for all stakeholders where challenge the accepted norms. we can. This ambitious vision is Even when marketing our homes the topic of my final year research we try new and exciting things. We’re project in completing my work based even one of the first house builders to set MBA in leading business. Everyone is on up a dedicated YouTube channel with board and very excited about the helpful videos for our customers called direction we are taking. Watch this space! ‘Freeman TV’. It’s about thinking differently and always striving to be the best at everything we do. We’re very fortunate to have a great team of people all playing to their passions and strengths. is important to us, retaining the quality as we grow. It’s how we’ve got the good reputation that we have so far in business and how we ensure that continues. We also took time to carefully select and employ a professional senior management team to secure the business going forward and plan for future growth.
LIFESTYLE 3
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LUST LIST
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LIFESTYLE 4
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LIFESTYLE 5
THE W Y E VAL L E Y The dramatic lan dscape of the Wye Valley is full of phenomenal sights. Descen d into gorges, climb hills an d get lost in forests as we take you on a brief tour of the are a.
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tretching from just south of Hereford to Chepstow and covering a total of 126 square miles this rural Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a haven for anybody looking to pull on their walking boots and get out and about. Sweeping hills and meadows blend into thick woods before falling down to the base of the valley, and hidden within this range of landscapes there is an abundance of wildlife. You may see otters, badgers and even wild boar as you roam. During their mating season in Autumn, fallow deer are also likely to be seen and heard. With the River Wye forming its backbone there are spectacular views in every direction as you follow the trails and paths. The Wye Valley Walk follows the river’s course for 136 miles and meanders between England and Wales. Instead of tackling the whole route, why not pick a section between two of the delightful villages and end your walk at a traditional pub? The spectacular Tintern Abbey is a medieval abbey which has stood the test of time and is now one of the best preserved remaining in Wales. The empty windows jut into the skies
Resident Roe Deer
Symonds Yat
amongst tree covered hills and is still beautiful in its ruined state. There are some intriguing natural structures waiting to be explored as well, including King Arthur’s Cave near Symonds Yat. Steeped in legend, there is nothing better than exploring the secrets held here, we’ll let you decide for yourselves if King Arthur ever stayed here! If you’re in need of something to keep the children entertained then the Wye Valley does not disappoint. Archery lessons will release their inner Robin Hood, or head into the Forest of Dean and tackle the adventure ropes courses. The River Wye was once used as a commercial waterway but today you can venture out by canoe or kayak, with smooth and faster flowing stretches there is something to suit all abilities. After doing all of this, we can forgive you for wanting to take a seat and relax and this is a great time to try the locally produced food and drink available. With bacon, smoked salmon, cheeses, cider and wine there is a fantastic selection available, many of which are showcased at festivals. In October choose from the Forest Food Showcase at Speech House or the Monmouthshire Food Festival at Caldicot Castle, both charming locations which include cookery demonstrations, arts and crafts and over 100 producers. As we’re sure you can see, there is plenty on offer in the Wye Valley to keep everybody happy. See our “What’s Local?” list for some great local days out.
LIFESTYLE 6
WHAT’S LOCAL?
ASK A LOCAL
CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE
MATTHEW DAVIES
BEST THING ABOUT LIVING HERE? City life went hand in hand with long journeys to reach the countryside. Now finishing work on a Friday we can load our bikes onto the back of the car and head straight into the forest, not a traffic jam in sight. It really is the perfect way to start our weekend and there are still so many things on my “to-do” list.
EDEWOLF/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
PHOTO CREDITS: GOLFER2015/THINKSTOCK, JUPITERIMAGES/THINKSTOCK, WYE DEAN TOURISM,
WHY THE MOVE HERE? With family ties at both ends of the country, The Wye Valley started as just a convenient half way point on the map. Both my partner and I were very accustomed to city life but it only took one visit to realise what a fantastic place this would be to call home - the job hunt began and we packed our bags!
ANY HIDDEN TREASURES? One of the first places I visited was Symonds Yat – It’s not so much a hidden treasure but it’s an incredibly beautiful area. Walk down to Biblins Bridge and back up the other side, hop onto the rope ferry and enjoy a drink at the Saracens Head overlooking the river – it doesn’t get much better!
Above, race with other Mad Hatters from Eastnor Castle. Above right, have a flutter at Chepstow racecourse.
DID YOU KNOW? TH E RIVE R WYE IS TH E U N ITE D KINGDOMS 5TH LONGEST RIVE R!
The winter jump season opens here in October with live bands and an Oktoberfest marquee giving you entertainment between the races. The racecourse also hosts a mind, body and spirit event, an obstacle mud race and fireworks events to ensure that everyone is kept happy throughout the year. chepstow-racecourse.co.uk
EASTNOR CASTLE This fascinating castle has a beautiful lake, arboretum and deer park within its grounds which are the setting for many events and experiences. The Land Rover Experience gives you an exhilarating drive and the remaining muddy tracks are taken advantage of when the muddy trail race is hosted. If you don’t fancy a mud bath, the Malvern Mad Hatter bike race also begins and ends here. eastnorcastle.com
WYE LEISURE, FOWNHOPE Paddle down the Wye
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With five spa pools, three swimming pools and many treatments on offer, this is the place to relax in the Wye Valley. Take some time out in the steam room or sauna, join a fitness class or be pampered with a massage or beauty treatment before having a drink in the coffee shop or terrace bar. wyeleisure.co.uk
C H E LT E N H A M This stunning Regency spa town is home to be autiful architecture, heritage fe atures an d picturesque outdoor spaces. Cheltenham has so much on offer.
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tepping away from the fast pace of normal city life, Cheltenham offers an elegant retreat which is easily accessible from both Bristol and Birmingham. Found beneath Cleeve Hill in the Cotswolds, not only is the surrounding scenery breathtaking, but the town itself offers fantastic parks and picnic spots. Pittville Park, the largest in Cheltenham, is home to The Pump Room where you can sample the famous spa waters. The discovery of this healing water brought King George III to visit in 1788 and began the growth of the town from its market beginnings to the diverse and cultural hub that you see today. Cheltenham is separated into a number of quarters which each have a different personality and offer a choice of experiences. In the elegant Montpellier district you can enjoy a romantic evening meal at the town’s Michelin starred restaurant, Le Champignon Sauvage. An array of independent shops line Montpellier Walk opposite Montpellier Gardens which are separated by magnificent sculptures, making you feel as though you have been transported to ancient Greece.
Top left, the classic architecture of The Minicipial offices. Right, The Minotaur and the Hare statue by Sophie Ryder.
Georgian Pump room and Pittville Park.
Towards the centre of town you can spend a delightful afternoon wandering the wide tree lined promenade where you will see the characterful Hare and Minotaur statue. Within this very pretty area and the nearby bustling high street you will find a selection of well-known high street stores and higher end boutiques. There are some lovely cafes where you can set your shopping bags down and rest with an afternoon tea whilst taking in the bustling atmosphere. Cheltenham is known as the cultural centre of the Cotswolds and it is easy to see why. With an events calendar full to the brim all year round covering everything from food and drink to literature and music you are sure to find something to keep the whole family entertained. If the British weather disappoints then there are plenty of things to do on rainy days! The town has a number of theatres, art galleries and museums and at The Brewery is a cinema and bowling alley for some friendly competition. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, tackling Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, is sure to blow away the cobwebs and will reward you with breathtaking views across Cheltenham and the undulating surrounding hills. This is a brilliant way to end your stay in Cheltenham and let you see what else this scenic area has to offer.
LIFESTYLE 8
The Everyman Theatre
WHAT, WHERE & WHEN? A little helping hand to plan your weekend in Cheltenham. CHELTENHAM FOODIE TOURS On every Saturday throughout the year the Cheltenham Foodie Tour is a fabulous way to discover hidden secrets of the town and tickle your taste buds. Learn how the city became the cultural and varied hub you see today while trying delicious local produce. visitcheltenham.com
ASK A LOCAL RACHEL PALMER
CHELTENHAM RACES Put on your ‘Sunday best’ and see if you pick a winner at one of the world-famous race days. On the 27-28 October The Showcase has seven races each day and is a great opportunity to get into the spirit. Tickets are available online at cheltenham.thejockeyclub.co.uk
PHOTO CREDITS: CARONB/THINKSTOCK, STOCKNSHARES/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, TBRADFORD/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
WHY THE MOVE TO CHELTENHAM? I landed a dream job as a designer in Cheltenham and bought my first house here. That was nearly 20 years ago now. BEST THINGS ABOUT LIVING HERE? The town sparkles with an energy which comes from all the community projects and festivals which are held almost weekly. The small pockets of independent shops in Montpellier and the Suffolks are a delight to browse. However, drive a few minutes in any direction and you are in green countryside with rolling hills and stunning views. ANY HIDDEN TREASURES? As a foodie, Cheltenham has an impressive selection of excellent eating establishments, two stand out; Lumiere and Prithvi. If Cheltenham is the jewel of the Cotswolds then these restaurants are the jewels of Cheltenham.
CHELTENHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL Running from the 6-15 October with over 600 authors, politicians and poets including Miranda Hart, Michael Morpurgo and Nadiya Hussain. Partake in workshops, meet favourite childhood characters and enjoy one of the many performances and readings. cheltenhamfestivals.com
Above, bump into equine royalty at Cheltenham Races.
LIFESTYLE 9
EVERYMAN THEATRE PRODUCTIONS With a mind boggling choice of plays, ballet, opera and comedy, The Everyman Theatre showcases award-winning productions. Wuthering Heights and The Kite Runner are amongst those showing this November. everymantheatre.org.uk
remove the smoke, hot gases and other by-products created when wood burns. However, if you haven’t got one, a pre-fabricated flue can be installed either inside or outside of your home up to and above your roof level, allowing you to situate a stove against any suitable wall. Incorporating clean-burn technology for a higher heat output and minimal emissions, Worcester’s Greenstyle stoves are between 74% and 86% efficient – amongst the highest level possible for a wood burning stove. Given their low emissions, they are also DEFRA exempt, so you can install one wherever you live in the country.
ASK AN EXPERT
WOOD BURNING STOV E S Martyn Bridges at Worcester Bosch Group discusses the benefits of cast iron wood burning stoves.
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ood burning stoves are an increasingly popular way to create a warming focal point in both modern and traditional properties. From an eye-catching and timeless feature in an open plan kitchendiner to a centre piece in a cosy snug, wood burning stoves add elegance all year round and provide a boost of warmth throughout the colder months. With curved cabriole legs, a cornice top and matt black, cast iron finish, the Greenstyle Hanbury from Worcester, Bosch Group was the perfect choice for Freeman Homes. The stylish wood burning stove comes as standard specification at Westcombe Place and The Westwoods sites positioned on the eastern fringe of Northleach. It is now also available as an upgrade at a variety of other upcoming developments.
ARE THEY EASY TO USE? The Hanbury is surprisingly easy to clean as it features a convenient hearth ash Martyn Bridges is director of technical catcher, which increases protection from communication and product management hot embers and allows you to remove at Worcester, Bosch Group, he suggests them regularly with ease. You can also that “the beauty of cast iron is that, help to keep your stove clean and in good although it may take slightly longer to heat condition by using the right fuel. Burning up, it naturally retains heat and gives off wood which has less than 20% moisture warmth long after the logs have burned will help to stop ash particles from building down. While it is burning logs it gives off up in the flue or chimney and will help a powerful heat which is strong enough to prevent the glass of the door staining. heat the entire room as well as increasing The air control levers at the front of the temperatures throughout your property”. Hanbury allow you to simply adjust the flames and switch from a roaring fire to a DOES SIZE MATTER? gentle flicker with ease. When on full The Greenstyle Hanbury is power it can give off enough available in 4kW, 5kW and heat to warm a large space 8kW models allowing you on a cold winter’s day. It also ‘LARGER to choose a size which fits effectively creates a soft, MODELS WORK into every area of your warming ambience when on WELL IN OPEN property. The smaller a low setting – perfect for PLAN SPACES’ models work well in cosy dinner parties or cosy extensions as they provide autumn evenings. additional heat to an area of As you would expect from the house which may not be powered by Worcester, the Greenstyle Hanbury also the original heating system. The larger comes with a no quibble 5 year guarantee models work well in open plan spaces for the main body, handles and core and are effective in creating a stylish components plus 1 year cover for the feature wall. glass, grate and seals. For further information on Worcester’s DO I NEED A CHIMNEY? Greenstyle wood burning stoves or Unlike real fires, wood burning stoves award winning heating and hot water don’t need to be installed into a products, call 0330 123 2445. traditional brick built chimney. If your property already has a chimney, then after suitably lining the chimney it’s the ideal place to house the flue to safely
LIFESTYLE 10
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01594 542 485 www.freemanfirewood.co.uk
Force dried woodchip for biomass boilers also available. Call for a competitive quote.
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LIFESTYLE ISSU E TH RE E * 2017
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OUR GUIDE TO THE WYE VALLEY & CHELTENHAM C E L E B R AT I N G T H E C O T S W O L D S , H E R E F O R D S H I R E , G L O U C E S T E R S H I R E , F O R E S T O F D E A N & W Y E V A L L E Y
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LIFESTYLE 11
LIFESTYLE
DESIGN-LED LIVING
RETIREMENT R E I M AG I N E D Lifestyle met with South West based Freeman Retirement Living to discuss their flagship development and talk ‘design-led’ with Neil Ross of KWL Architects.
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ake a moment to imagine enjoying the total independence of owning your very own property within a friendly and likeminded community; a place where you can enjoy all the benefits of the lifestyle that you live today but with even more located right on your doorstep. All of this, coupled with the peace of mind that support is on hand as and when needed and we start to build a picture of Freeman Retirement Living (FRL). To start at the beginning, FRL was launched in 2009 by the highly respected and family run MF Freeman Group. At the time, a clear gap in the UK market between residential housing and traditional care homes created a window
The old Cadburys factory now The Chocolate Quarter, Keynsham.
of opportunity for innovation and growth THE FAIRWAYS into a completely different kind of FRL’s first flagship development was a £28 age-exclusive accommodation. It is million retirement village on the outskirts within this movement that echoed so of Chippenham called The Fairways, much of what was already well lending its name to the Golf Club that it’s established in the US, Australia and New situated adjacent to. With its 75 Zealand that FRL began to set themselves individually custom-built apartments, apart. Developments alike across the UK extensive shared communal facilities and are typically restricted 60-bed care home run by to the over 55s where care provider MHA, The occupiers both own Fairways went all the way ‘EVERYONE IS VERY and rent properties. in creating the desired DIFFERENT, Most include some secure and dynamic ENJOYING DIFFERENT community that its’ provision for care and feature shared residents enjoy today. LIFESTYLES AND communal facilities HOBBIES’ and onsite activities DESIGN-LED and clubs. Freeman We met with lead Retirement Living decided to offer all of architect Neil Ross from KWL Architects this, but champion for a better standard who designed the village in conjunction of housing in design-led schemes that with project manager Andrew Wilson. allow for an active lifestyle. At the very Neil explains the thought process behind core of their business lies a commitment the design. “The Fairways Retirement to ensuring you have every opportunity to Village was designed to provide residents make the very most out of your with the best facilities and amenities that retirement. Providing flexibility and retirement living could offer. The brief we freedom within a retirement village received from FRL was to provide a setting they make it easy to do more of vibrant community in which people could the things you enjoy. live and enjoy their lives, both securely and independently, but with the advantage of having help and care
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delivered to their home when needed. Everyone is very different, enjoying different lifestyles and hobbies, therefore when we developed the design, the team utilised best practice researched from visiting retirement living schemes across the continent, America and Australia. The three storey glass atriums are pivotal for residents to enjoy a secure and sheltered social space, where they can interact and partake in activities whatever the English weather offers. These places embrace the macro community living within the Fairways and promote wellbeing. When seeking quieter times residents can also retreat into their luxuriously appointed apartments or just enjoy their own company and privacy using their lounges and balconies away from others. A range of facilities within the building encourage both communal and individual activities, hinged around the main restaurant and bistro at the heart of the building. A luxurious swimming pool, fitness suite, cinema, games room and
library were incorporated within the design which can be enjoyed by the residents and visitors to the village. Children and grandchildren are actively encouraged to use the facilities adding to the vibrancy experienced at The Fairways. Most importantly the building has been designed to ensure the wellbeing of its residents. The Village, including the buildings and its environment, has been designed to ensure accessibility to those of limited mobility and meet the expectations of ‘lifetime homes’. The Fairways allows care to be provided to those residents, when required, in a discreet and dignified way whilst maintaining the lifestyle and freedom of its residents.” WHAT’S NEXT FOR FREEMAN RETIREMENT LIVING? FRL’s next retirement project will be part of a much larger regeneration project for the area of Wichelstowe headed up by Forward Swindon. The overall scheme includes 3 villages that will be made up of 4,500 homes, commercial premises, shops, eating establishments, and a community centre as well as plenty of green open spaces. FRL will develop a retirement village within the community, comprising of 125 extra care apartments with shared communal facilities. The site is ideally positioned next to the canal, just a short walk from Waitrose and well connected with nearby access onto the M4. For more information on Freeman Retirement Living please contact the team on 01594 543354
LIFESTYLE 13
Main image, have a dip in the pool at The Fairways. Above, the elegant exterior at The Chase Dales.
F L AG S H I P F R L D E V E LO P M E N T S THE FAIRWAYS RETIREMENT VILLAGE, CHIPPENHAM Dynamic community of 75 individually custom-built apartments with outstanding communal facilities opposite Chippenham Golf Club. THE CHASE DALES, ROSS ON WYE Gated development of 12 houses and apartments exclusively designed for the over 55’s with a visiting Estate Manager. Beautiful shared landscaped garden and summer house. THE CHOCOLATE QUARTER, KEYNSHAM Facilitator of a £60 million mixed use development that includes 140 assisted living apartments, 90-bed care home, office space, retail outlets and leisure facilities.
WHY BUY NEW?
R E M OV E THE ST R E S S Getting help where it matters most. We guide you through some of the benefits of buying new.
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PHOTO CREDITS: EVA-KATALIN/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
e all know that moving house can be stressful so we looked into ways that you can reduce your stress levels when buying your next home, and why buying new means a more relaxed move.
materials in your new home. The remaining 8 years of the warranty period are covered by the warranty provider. Unlike with an older home, from day one you have peace of mind that you’re covered. There is also great peace of mind in knowing that 80% of new build houses are checked by NHBC to ensure that it is of the highest standards and ready to move into.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE The option of using Help to Buy to reduce your mortgage and buy with a smaller deposit is open to all home buyers as long as it’s a new home. Take out the stress of finances by freeing up your cash flow when you first move in so you have more money left ‘NO PURCHASE over to buy that new sofa PART EXCHANGE GOES MORE you’ve had your eye on! No purchase goes more There are also options to get smoothly than a chain free SMOOTHLY your new home under a one. When you buy new you THAN A CHAIN shared ownership scheme may have the option to part FREE ONE’ helping those who may not exchange your old property have thought they could for your new home. get on the property ladder, to own their Developers often offer this on selected own home. plots and this is by far the simplest and easiest way to move house. You can work PEACE OF MIND deadlines around you and move when you Most new homes come with a 10 year want to… often in as little as 6 weeks if structural warranty to protect you, the that’s what suits you. home owner. In the first 2 year period it’s the responsibility of the house builder to FINANCIAL INCENTIVES put right any defects in workmanship or New homes tend to be priced more competitively for what you are buying and there are sometimes financial incentives available for those looking to
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buy direct from a house builder. These can range from upgrade packages or flooring being included to schemes like Easy Move where on selected plots you can get help selling your existing property and even have agents fees paid for you. CONSUMER CODE All house builders must adhere to The Consumer Code and so the service that they offer you during the sales process, in their marketing efforts and throughout the process is rigorously checked. You can be sure when buying new that you’re getting what you pay for with excellent service. Having that customer service that leads you through the process and then the subsequent support is a reassuring benefit. You can look as many times as you like at your potential home to make sure you’re making the right decision at times that are convenient to you… overall there is more choice, a better layout, size and more options to upgrade.
PROUD TO BE DIFFERENT
High specification
Aspirational homes in desirable locations Visit one of our show homes or call us for a brochure www.freemanhomes.co.uk or 01594 543 354 16 LIFESTYLE
FINANCE
E LECTIONS AND THE PROPERTY MARKET Terry Sutherland from The Mortgage Brain asks what does the election result mean to the property market?
FIGURES QUOTED CORRECT AT THE TIME OF GOING TO PRESS SEPTEMBER 2017 PHOTO CREDITS: TBRADFORD/ISTOCKPHOTO
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H OT TO P I C Interest Rates
property market but London has been notoriously overheated for some time so perhaps this really is just a re-balancing of the market place. Once again house prices are showing modest growth with Nationwide Building Society’s latest price index showing prices up by 0.3% in June with average UK house prices now £211,671. The recent modest growth in house prices will be cheered by potential first-time buyers, who have seen property values rise at a much faster rate than interest on savings. Homeowners should not worry about a crash, as the chronic shortage of properties available - the main reason sales transactions are down - will ensure prices remain buoyant.
he general election may seem like a long time ago and last year’s referendum an eternity but what has really changed for the housing market? It’s worth remembering that political uncertainty has become the norm recently – but neither of these recent ‘THE MARKET HAS events have had any significant effect on the COMMITMENT TO NOT RADICALLY residential market. BUILDING CHANGED IN ANY Naturally, there was It is clear the government WAY-THUS FAR’ plenty of doom and are committed to the gloom around election development of new time and following it as homes and will continue to what the hung parliament means for to support people moving up the the market but actually, since then, property ladder for the time being. The the market has not radically changed in overall message once again is business as any way-thus far. We were already usual as despite the election results, not seeing house price growth slow much has changed. dramatically in London in the past year, highlighting a change of gear in the UK
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MY FIXED RATE IS ABOUT TO COME TO AN END, SHOULD I STAY ON THE LENDERS STANDARD VARIABLE RATE? The re-mortgage market has seen a resurgence in recent times and this is down to the very low fixed rates at present. Most lenders standard variable rates are generally speaking over 3%. Currently some of their fixed rates are below that. Lenders have a great appetite to lend at present and there are deals out there which offer free valuations and free legals/solicitors. WHICH IS THE BETTER DEAL, FIXED RATES OR TRACKERS? It does really depend on your personal circumstances. That said, if you’re merely looking at one against the other purely driven by rate there is currently very little margin between these two types of mortgage product. They are quite opposite in what they do as the tracker is a variable rate which moves up and down as rates move and the fixed rate gives a level payment over a period irrespective of what the rate moves up and down to. It comes down to your risk profile and you would need to factor in the affordability should the variable rate change. At present, the margin between the rates are that small that a reasonably small increase in base rate, could mean that if you chose a tracker, you may actually be worse off than a fixed rate. I would suggest you contact a mortgage broker who can recommend a product based on your circumstances.
LET’S MOVE TO
THE W E ST WO OD S NORT H L E AC H Vast in all their beauty, the rising green hills of the Cotswolds are peppered with honey pot towns and villages that emanate a warmth and richness that can only be found in this unique location.
4 bedroom homes at The Westwoods
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he Cotswolds is nothing short of a lifestyle choice and where better to take up residence and call home than the delightful town of Northleach. Something of a hidden gem, Northleach is one of the smaller traditional Cotswold market towns – but don’t be fooled by its size. The picturesque and completely unspoilt town has a thriving collection of independent shops that radiate out from a large market square. Home to some highly reputable places to eat and drink where you can soak up the warm and friendly atmosphere, Northleach is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Cotswold lifestyle. There are many great walks in and around the area, especially along the Hampnett Valley and the Salt & Fosse Ways where beautiful countryside offers the
River Leach
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perfect opportunity to go walking, cycling, riding or for a family picnic. With the bustling towns of Cirencester and Cheltenham no further than 11 miles away from this picturesque location you are never too far from a vibrant shopping scene. At The Westwoods, Freeman Homes have drawn inspiration from the regions mesmerising countryside and beautiful architecture to develop a collection of traditional Cotswold style homes, blending traditional elevations with contemporary internal specifications. Built using exceptional quality materials, the properties sit comfortably and sympathetically in their surroundings. Positioned on the eastern fringe of Northleach in the beautiful Cotswold countryside, The Westwoods is within easy walking distance of the town centre. This bespoke development presents 40 generous 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes all with private off road parking. The undeniably beautiful properties have been designed to sit comfortably within the traditional market town surrounding and feature Cotswold stone detailing, slate roofs and timber frame windows that echo the regions architecture. For more information about The Westwoods call 01451 263123 or email sales@thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk, www.thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk.
WE STC OM BE PL AC E NORT H L E AC H An exclusive and luxurious collection of 5 large Cotswold style properties.
I USEFUL FACTS
IMAGE OF HOUSE TYPE IS INDICATIVE OF PROPERTIES BEING BUILT. PHOTO CREDITS: COTSWOLD TOURISM, STEVE.DORE@HOTMAIL.CO.UK
ACCESS Perfectly positioned just 10 miles northeast of Cirencester and 11 miles east-southeast of Cheltenham the town benefits from easy access to Gloucester, Oxford, Stow-on-theWold and is just 6 miles from Bourton-on-the-Water. Kingham train station is 14 miles away and runs a daily direct route to London which takes approximately 1.5 hours dependent on the time of day. SCHOOLS Northleach C of E primary school is less than a mile from The Westwoods development. The Cotswold Secondary School in Bourton-on-the-Water is just 6 miles away and achieved an outstanding Ofsted status.
ntroducing Westcombe Place, an undeniably beautiful development of five exclusive detached Cotswold properties. Westcombe Place strikes the perfect balance of quintessential English style and gorgeous contemporary twists. These luxury homes boast spacious layouts that have been designed for a changing family dynamic as well as entertaining your friends and family in impressive style. Accessed from a private entrance, the homes enjoy striking views down the shallow River Leach Valley with frontage to the open countryside to the south side of the site. All homes have been designed with this in mind; where the sun will first enter the house and leave on the other. The tree lined avenue, green spaces and an original stone boundary wall enrich the feeling of space and the countryside location in the rolling green Cotswolds.
FACILITIES A great selection of local shops, places to eat and drink, play sport and socialise. The community centre host a range of clubs and activities for all ages.
Street view of Westcombe Place
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A 5 bedroom home at Westcombe Place
FLEXIBILITY IS KEY On the ground floors particularly, we have exercised flexibility in the relationship between the kitchen and its primary functions. By using broken plan design we allow the rooms to all flow together in open plan form or to be closed down into separate spaces if you wish. HISTORICAL INSPIRATION Rich in architectural history Northleach is home to The Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul – often referred to as The Cathedral of the Cotswolds and one of the best examples of the areas perpendicular style. The impressive 15th-century church is testimony to the town’s former importance as a major centre for the wool trade. For more information about Westcombe Place please call 01451 263123 or email sales@westcombeplace.co.uk, www.westcombeplace.co.uk.
L E T ’ S E AT O U T
THE WH E AT S H E AF AT NORT H L E AC H A local pub with delicious home-cooked meals, refreshing artisan drinks, an impressive wine list and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Above and main, enjoy relaxed and elegant dining at The Wheatsheaf.
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ust over a ten minute walk from The Westwoods, The Wheatsheaf Inn is a cosy retreat set amongst honey coloured houses in a beautiful historic setting. Once a coaching inn, the stylish and contemporary interior provides a backdrop to friendly conversations amongst locals and tourists alike. The rustic décor has a quirky edge with portraits of old and new lining the walls, quality wooden tables and lived in armchairs make it feel like a home away from home. The roaring open fire will keep chilly evenings at bay as you enjoy a drink at the bar before sitting down to dinner. Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and simple recipes that let the food speak for itself result in a delicious menu. You won’t be able to resist returning on a regular basis. Food is served from breakfast through to evening meals and with a private room that can accommodate a group of twenty this is also a great place to celebrate a special occasion. The fourteen rooms, designed by Georgie Pearman, will take your breath away. From the ‘ENJOY A DRINK AT sumptuous bedding to the THE BAR BEFORE SITTING elegant freestanding baths, DOWN TO DINNER’ no detail has been missed. Amongst the style and character there are Hypnos beds ensuring a cosy night’s sleep, luxuriant robes, 100 Acres toiletries and artwork which is sure to be a conversation piece. Some of the rooms are even dog friendly which is a big bonus considering you are surrounded by some of the country’s finest countryside. After a long walk put your feet up and relax in the small treatment room. Enjoy an indulgent massage, facials and other treats but remember to book in advance. It is hard not to fall in love with this quintessentially English pub with an edgy twist, as proven by Kate Moss who thought it was good enough even for her wedding guests!
Stylish dining at No. 131.
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One of many forest paths.
The lush exterior at The Wheatsheaf.
VI L L AGE L I F E
ALSO NEARBY… Other unique pubs in the Cotswolds from The Lucky Onion group. NO.131, CHELTENHAM This beautiful Georgian townhouse is a fabulous place to try fun food in a relaxed setting. Eleven rooms feature original artworks by Banksy and David Hockney amongst others.
Above and below, pull in for a burger or freshly made pasta at The Tavern.
THE TAVERN, CHELTENHAM Head to “Late Night at The Tavern” on a Friday or Saturday and party til the early hours to hip hop and funk, vinyl only of course. Don’t miss out on the artisan burger of the month while you’re there! THE CHEQUERS INN, CHURCHILL Mixing traditional country with London chic, The Chequers indulges both pie and pint fans and cocktail connoisseurs. Set at the heart of this quaint Cotswold village you’ll quickly feel part of the local scene.
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The beautiful developments of Westcombe Place and The Westwoods are an easy ten minute stroll from The Wheatsheaf and everything else that Northleach has to offer. Set around the market square, the community here is thriving with a number of quality establishments and independent shops selling local produce. You will be welcomed with a friendly atmosphere as you settle into the gentle pace of Cotswold village life. The town was previously a centre for the wool trade and its history is evident throughout with half-timbered buildings set along the small alleys and busy traders at the market. Head down to the local community centre, Westwoods, to see which clubs you can join and what activities might be of interest before spending the evening in the local wine bar or one of the country pubs. Surrounding this unspoilt town is the wealth of the Cotswold countryside, an amazing backdrop to your everyday life, with many opportunities for walkers, ramblers and anybody looking to get out and about. It is without a doubt that Northleach is a hidden treasures within the Cotswolds which offers a quintessentially English way of life.
LET’S MOVE TO
OAK L A N D S HOLT W E OB L E Y Oaklands Holt is perfectly positioned near the centre of the quaint and picturesque village of Weobley, only a stones throw from nearby Leominster and Hereford.
Above and below, images indicative of house type at Oaklands Holt.
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he traditional homes being built at Oaklands Holt are perfect for modern day living with generous room sizes and layouts. There are well proportioned two bedroom properties on the development through to impressive and striking five bedroom houses. All the homes are built to the highest specifications with quality touches throughout. VILLAGE LIFE The village of Weobley is picture postcard perfection dating back to medieval times. line the centre of the village. When you walk around you get the feeling that traditional village life with a community at its heart is not a thing of the past. Life takes on a lovely gentle pace and is an ideal way to spend your leisure time. The residents of Weobley are friendly and welcoming and there is a vibrant social scene for all ages. This pretty village has attracted a lot of attention with the BBC’s The One Show broadcasting live from the centre last summer. Millions of viewers tuned in to watch the locals take part and join Alex and Matt on the famous green sofa. The community spirit is clear to see with the village centre home to many shops, a Post Office, tea rooms and also a lovely local pub ‘Ye Old Salutation Inn’ that welcomes you with a great atmosphere and home cooked food. There are so many groups and activities that you can join, from cricket, football or bowling through to gardening, social and walking clubs. There is even a history society and an agricultural improvement society.
The pretty village of Weobley
Formerly a market town, Weobley is rich in history. The Church of St Peter and St Paul has a Norman south doorway, a 13th century chancel and a 14th century tower. The ‘Throne’ is also a building with an interesting historical narrative having been the venue that King Charles I spent the night on 5 September 1945 after the battle of Naseby during the English Civil War. With a focus on today, the village is home to many local artists and is rich in culture. In the centre of Weobley is a striking sculpture which was designed by a local artist Walenty Pytel of a magpie, the emblem of the village, taking pride of place. THE AREA The local area attracts its fair share of tourists who enjoy the 40 mile long black and white trail which takes a meandering path through nearby villages to take in the resplendent views. As the name suggests, the villages on the trail are very much like Weobley, characterised by a large number of timber and half-timbered houses dating back to medieval times. For more information about Oaklands Holt please contact 01594 543354 or visit www.freemanhomes.co.uk.
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Go Quad biking at Herefordshire Raceway.
WH AT ’ S N E ARBY ? HEREFORDSHIRE RACEWAY This 600 metre outdoor karting track is great fun for a day out. As you take a lap around the course you will be both exhilarated and your driving skills will be challenged. Children over the age of 8 are welcome but you need to be 14 or over to drive one of the twin engine pro-karts with speeds of up to 50mph. www.herefordshireraceway.org.uk
USEFUL FACTS ACCESS Only a 25 minute drive from Hereford and a 15 minute drive to nearby Leominster. The city of Worcester is only an hour’s drive away and you can even be in Birmingham in under two hours. Bus services are regular and run 6 days a week to nearby towns and cities for those that don’t drive.
PHOTO CREDITS: CARONB/ISTOCKPHOTO
SCHOOLS Both the primary and secondary schools in Weobley are incredibly well thought of and rated as “good” with Ofsted. FACILITIES With a dental practice, doctors, community centre, thriving village centre with shops, cafes and a post office, Weobley has everything you could need on the doorstep.
Crate stacking at Oaker Wood Leisure.
EXPLORE TH IS LOVE LY VILLAGE HAS B E E N INCLU DE D AS ON E OF TH E TOP 20 MOST IDYLLIC VILLAGES TO VISIT
THE HEREFORDSHIRE GOLF CLUB Should you fancy a leisurely round of golf then head to The Herefordshire Golf Club. With views over the Brecon Beacons, the Shropshire Hills and the Malverns this golf course has been described as the ‘Gleneagles of the Midlands’. It is challenging but suitable for all abilities. www.herefordshiregolfclub.co.uk
OAKER WOOD LEISURE, LEOMINSTER A fun filled day out for the family that gives older children the chance to immerse themselves in nature. Get stuck into paintballing, raft building, Monkey Climbing, target shooting, Zip Wires, Tree Trekking, and much much more. Pre-booking essential and group number required. www.oakerwoodleisure.co.uk
For a full list of all the amazing activities, clubs and groups in Weobley visit www.weobley.org
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Improve your putt at Herefordshire Golf Club.
LET’S MOVE TO
WE STON - U N DE R - PE N YARD H EREFORDS HI RE The tranquil and beautiful village of Weston-under-Penyard is something of a much loved countryside retreat. One of the smaller South Herefordshire villages it stands astride the A40 with spectacular views as far reaching as the very prominent and picturesque May Hill.
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ith the bustling Wye Valley market town of Ross-on-Wye only 2 miles away, Westonunder-Penyard is only a very short distance from an increasing collection of independent shops and highly reputable places to eat and drink. Soak up the friendly atmosphere and enjoy the relaxed pace of life at any one of our named spots on the ‘What’s nearby?’ list. On a clear day you can enjoy views of the Malverns in the east and Black Mountains in the west from The Prospect viewpoint at St Mary’s Churchyard.
This page, indicative images of house types at Ariconium Place.
ARICONIUM PLACE On the far east side of the village, Ariconium Place is surrounded by beautiful countryside views and large green open spaces. Drawing inspiration from the local area, a collection of 35 properties will sit beneath Penyard Hill and comprise of spacious 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes designed to enhance modern day living. Each home will be built to the highest of standards with exceptional finishes throughout, synonymous with the Freeman Homes brand. The homes will feature the signature Freeman specification to include Neff appliances, Porcelanosa tiles and an abundance of built in storage. Built using exceptional quality materials and superior craftsmanship, these homes will be a pleasure to live in for years to come.
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RICH IN HISTORY Rich in Roman history, Weston-underPenyard was a former Roman settlement called Ariconium. During the Roman occupation of Britain around 2,000 years ago, the settlement was a busy industrial area home to iron production for weapons, armour and more common household objects like cooking pots. A recent archaeological dig uncovered artefacts linked to the iron industry to include a quern stone which would have been used to grind up cereals. For more information about Ariconium Place please contact 01594 543354, email marketing@mffreeman.co.uk or visit www.freemanhomes.co.uk.
Left, a misty dawn on May Hill. Below, a view of Ross-onWye from the river.
NEARBY IN ROSS… RESTAURANT NO3 This relaxed restaurant and bar is a great place for foodies to enjoy meals in a rustic yet contemporary setting. After a walk along the river take a seat with some delicious food and enjoy your surroundings. www.no3rossonwye.com
USEFUL FACTS… ACCESS Perfectly positioned just 2 miles east of Ross-on-Wye on the A40, the village benefits from easy access to Gloucester (15 miles) and Hereford (18 miles). The M50 is very accessible connecting South Wales to the M5 motorway network.
PHOTO CREDITS: FATMANPHOTOUK/THINKSTOCK
SCHOOLS Weston-under-Penyard Church of England Primary School is housed in a traditional Victorian building and has just celebrated its 150th anniversary. The school is federated with Whitchurch CE Primary School.
‘SOAK UP THE FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE AND ENJOY THE RELAXED PACE OF LIFE’
FACILITIES The 14th century St Lawrence’s church and the Weston Cross public house are both within easy walking distance of Ariconium Place. The village hall and playing fields both sit at the end of School Lane not far from the development.
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THE KING’S HEAD With a warm welcome guaranteed, The King’s Head is found in the centre of town and meals are available for non-residents in the restaurant. The open fires and beams remind you that this was once a coaching inn and makes a comfortable place to gather with friends and family. www.kingshead.co.uk SIMPLY STUNNING If you need a bit of ‘me time’ the team at Simply Stunning will take good care of you. Melt the stresses away with a massage, freshen up with a manicure or just pop in for your next regular cut. They have also won awards for their wedding hair and beauty so keep them in mind for your big day! Phone 01989 762989
PROUD TO BE DIFFERENT
Aspirational homes desirable locations
Experience luxury Visit one of our show homes or call us for a brochure www.freemanhomes.co.uk or 01594 543 354
GAR DE N I NG
THE AUTUMN WINTER GARDEN As the cooler months approach prepare your beds and plant some bulbs ready for full bloom in spring. Here is Ross Garden Stores guide for this time of year… PLANT BULBS IN POTS READY FOR SPRING FLOWERING
PHOTO CREDITS: MEMENTOIMAGE/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, DARRYA/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM ROSS GARDEN STORE, SALES@ROSSGARDENSTORE.CO.UK, O1989 568999
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utumn is the best time for planting spring-flowering bulbs such as Hyacinths, Anenome, Narcissus, Muscari, Chionodoxa PLANT BULBS TO NATURALISE IN GRASS and Scilla and Tulips. Narcissus prefer a Bulbs always look good planted in natural looking drifts long growing season, so get them in the ground as amongst grass or under existing trees. Most bulbs are soon as they appear in your local Garden Centre in suitable for this and the best way to do it with smaller September. Tulips prefer to wait and are better planted bulbs is to scatter groups of them on top of the grass, in October and early November. This delays growth then lift the turf where they land and replace it over that could be damaged by hard frosts. September is them. With larger bulbs, use a bulb planter rather than also the latest month for planting bulbs to flower digging individual holes. indoors for Christmas. Take care when planting bulbs. Fork CHRISTMAS FLOWERING BULBS over the area to break the hard soil There is nothing more pleasing than a ‘BULBS ALWAYS and ensure free drainage. Work in a pot of flowering daffodils or hyacinths LOOK GOOD slow release feed such as Bonemeal with their beautiful fresh scent on the PLANTED IN (2-3oz / sq metre). windowsill at Christmas time. Buy NATURAL LOOKING your bulbs in September but look for Dig your hole making sure the base DRIFTS’ of the bulb where the roots will form those labelled ‘forced’ or ‘prepared’ is in good contact with the soil. In as they will have been specially heavier, damper soils, place a layer of supplied by the producers to flower grit in the hole and sit the bulb on top of the grit to earlier than others. Choose a nice windowsill improve drainage and prevent the bulb from rotting. container and plant your bulb in bulb fibre, then If bulbs fail to flower or grow, it is usually that they follow the packet instructions and you will have a have been planted at the wrong depth. A rough guide lovely show by December. They are also ideal to give is to cover a bulb with 2-3 times their own depth of as Christmas presents. Try Narcissus Paperwhite with soil. For example, a 5cm narcissus bulb would be its tall creamy white flowers above slender stems, planted with 10cm of soil above it. and beautifully sweet scent. These rules are subject to being bent a little-such as when planting in containers. Check the packet as they generally have good planting instructions these days. WHERE TO PLANT YOUR BULBS Dwarf bulbs in pots look particularly good. There are plenty of daffodil varieties to choose from, such as Jack Snipe with creamy yellow petals, and Pipit with yellow and white flowers. Other dwarf bulbs to try include Chionodoxas, Crocus and dwarf Iris.
ENLIST THE HELP OF A PLANTER
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LE ISU R E
TOP TEN LOCALLY SOURCED TIPPLES Herefordshire and its neighbouring counties are home to many micro breweries and distilleries, some of which you can visit.
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WESTON’S CIDER With an impressive list of awards, Weston’s Cider have been producing traditional and quality ciders since 1880. Learn all about cider making at their farmhouse which is surrounded by row upon row of apple and pear trees. Our favourite, Stowford Press, includes 16-17 home grown apples in each pint, practically one of your five-a-day! westons-cider.co.uk
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GUN DOG GIN Locally sourced Herefordshire fruit and vegetables are steeped in a British gin distilled specially for Gun Dog Gin for up to 12 months. Their range are full of flavour and can be enjoyed neat or mixed with tonic. Try their rhubarb gin with ginger ale, damson gin with cider or blackcurrant gin and prosecco. gundoggin.co.uk
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THREE CHOIRS VINEYARDS Transport yourself to one of England’s largest vineyards at Newent in Gloucestershire. Wander through the vines before indulging in a little wine tasting. You can learn more about the wine making process before enjoying a glass or two with delicious homecooked food in their restaurant! three-choirsvineyards.co.uk
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BATH ALES Dive into a diverse menu of craft ales at Bath Ales’ independent brewery. There is something for everyone from real ale fanatics to the more casual drinker. Discover the history of the micro-brewery on one of their tours before spending a great night at one of their award-winning pubs. bathales.com
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PEARSON’S CIDER CO Such is their passion for real cider, each apple is inspected before it begins the journey to becoming a bottle of Pearson’s. That’s a lot of apple gazing! Their medium cider has won first place at the Cotswold Life Food and Drink Awards, two years running. Serve chilled alongside a spicy dish. madeslow.co.uk
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COTSWOLDS DISTILLERY Using 100% locally grown Cotswold barley, the Cotswold Distillery are on their way to creating the first single malt whisky from this area. With an award-winning gin under their belt, we’re sure their whisky is well worth the wait. Nearing the end of its three year ageing process and available from October, why not head down for one of their tours and see if you can get hold of the limited supply! cotswoldsdistillery.com
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WHITE HERON This award-winning British Cassis is the perfect blend of sweet and sharp. Using currants from their Herefordshire farm which are elegantly bottled, this cassis is an ideal accompaniment to an evening in with friends. Topped with prosecco and a few blackberries the classic taste of British Cassis really shines through.whiteherondrinks.co.uk
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PLEASE VISIT WWW.DRINKAWARE.CO.UK FOR RECOMMENDED UNITS PHOTO CREDITS: ROS ATKINSON
COTSWOLD BREW CO This quirky, family owned company brew additive and preservative free lager using just four ingredients. Pop along to one of their tours of the brewery and get to know their beers inside out. Try a refreshing Cotswold Premium Lager after a busy day in the office. cotswoldbrewco.uk
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GIBSON’S ORGANIC LIQUEURS Home grown, local fruit is used to produce these award-winning fruit liqueurs. Designed to be enjoyed alone, or as part of a variety of cocktails they can also be used to liven up your favourite recipes enriching gravies or drizzled over ice cream. But don’t take our word for it ask Prue Leith! gibsonsorganic.co.uk
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CHASE DISTILLERY Home to Chase Vodka, this is Britain’s first singleestate distillery; take a tour and see the magic happen. Their signature vodka has been voted the World’s Best Vodka and you really can’t get any better than that. For something a bit different, try their Marmalade Vodka with strawberry jam and lemon juice, delicious! chasedistillery.co.uk
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THE COTSWOLD PORT COMPANY And finally... neither a brewery nor a vineyard but by far our favourite supplier of quality fortified wines – we couldn’t leave this page without mentioning The Cotswold Port Company. Fantastic service and advice on hand if needed! cotswoldport.co.uk
Taking bookings now for the festive period Contact us to request a menu
Award Winning Village Pub New Autumn Winter Menu INTRODUCING NEW GENERAL MANAGER DAVID JENKINS
Showcasing Wye Valley Suppliers Passionate about locally sourced quality produce Lunch menu served Tuesday to Saturday 12pm - 2.30pm Evening menu served Tuesday - Saturday 6pm - 9pm Sunday lunch served 12pm - 3pm Like and follow our facebook page for Mill Race news, events info and to enter our competitions
01989 562891 www.millrace.info generalmanager@millrace.info LIFESTYLE 30 Herefordshire, HR9 5QS The Mill Race, Walford Road, Ross on Wye,
FOOD & DR I N K
THE MILL RACE VILLAGE PUB
DE L IC IOUS & L IGH T C HO COL AT E & GRE N AD I N E MOUS S E
A focus on local produce and an award-winning wine list makes this pub a perfect place to catch up with friends and family.
MAIN PIC AND LEFT, THE MILL RACE VILLAGE PUB. BELOW, A TASTY DESERT TO WOW YOUR FRIENDS.
PHOTO CREDITS: OLINDANA/THINKSTOCK
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ith the autumn winter season upon us, darker chilly evenings provide the perfect excuse to huddle into the village pub with friends ‘Chinn-Chinn!’ to and family and catch up over a glass of Amanda’s Veggies wine, local beer and some heart-warming Galore supplying food. The Mill Race is surrounded by the beautiful organic beautiful English countryside, so after a produce, the Mill nippy Sunday afternoon exploring the Race suppliers could Wye Valley, you can warm up fireside take you on a with one of their delicious roast dinners fantastic tour! served with crispy roast potatoes, The pub boasts an award-winning wine seasonal vegetables and lashings of gravy list that is worthy of a visit alone. – yum! Better still, the bar area is Representative of important wine regions dog-friendly so you can dine with man’s from all around the world, wines have best friend at your feet been selected for quality and and a glass in hand. value for money across all The newly refurbished price points with a good ‘SOAK UP THE Mill Race is just a stone’s selection available by the throw away from Rossglass. There is also a fantastic WARM AND on-Wye in the village of selection of local ales, ciders FRIENDLY Walford. Featuring and spirits that can be ATMOSPHERE’ stripped back stone walls, enjoyed sat up at the dark comfy leather booths and granite top bar or on the a roaring woodburner you terrace with views can sit back and soak up the warm and overlooking the banks of the River Wye friendly atmosphere. and Goodrich castle on a warmer day. Owned and managed by people who are With plenty of tasty produce on offer passionate about food, their focus is on the Mill Race presents a relaxed village sourcing good quality seasonal produce pub atmosphere, friendly service and from within a 30 mile radius of the pub stylish surroundings. We highly with menus changing on a regular basis. recommend a visit in the near future! Take a few moments to observe the Please see The Mill Race website for impressive suppliers board as you come opening hours www.millrace.info or call through the front door that showcases the 01989 562891 to book. pub’s suppliers within the local area. From Cobrey Farms Castle Brook Vineyard that supplies English sparkling wine
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Impress your friends with this creative desert from The Mill Race.
MAKES: 5 INGREDIENTS For the mousse 6 egg yolks 500ml cream 125g sugar 125g chocolate 2 x gelatine leaves 100ml water For the jelly 400ml water 25ml grenadine 4 x gelatine leaves 25g sugar Zest of ½ orange 10g fresh ginger METHOD Mousse: Whisk egg yolks until you can form a figure of eight with the whisk. Bring sugar and water to soft boil, add softened gelatine and remove from heat. Pour onto egg yolk mixture slowly whilst continually whisking. Mixture should double in size. Melt chocolate in a bowl over a pan of water. Ensure water does not touch bottom of the bowl. Add chocolate to the egg yolk mixture and stir in slowly. Whisk cream until soft peaks form, do not over whisk as will become lumpy. Slowly fold cream into chocolate mixture, keep folding until well mixed. Place into a piping bag and pipe into glass moulds. Jelly: Bring all jelly ingredients except the gelatine to the boil. Add the softened gelatine and simmer for 1 minute. Allow to cool for 30 minutes then pour onto the set mousse and place into the fridge to set fully. Serve with your choice of decorations.
ijlbrown Specialist furniture makers
Bespoke furniture hand made in our own Herefordshire workshops. Full interior design service available to include Farrow & Ball paint and bespoke window treatments. Whitestone Park, Whitestone, Hereford HR1 3SE Tel: 01432 851991 634-636 Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW6 2DU Tel: 0207 736 4141 ijlbrown.com LIFESTYLE 32
WE LLB E I NG
ACHIEVING GREAT THINGS Our wellbeing expert Sarah Hayler talks us through how we can use visualisation to achieve our goals.
*PRICES CORRECT AT THE TIME OF GOING TO PRESS SEPTEMBER 2017. WWW.SARAHJANEHAYLER.CO.UK PHOTO CREDITS: PIXELFIT/ISTOCKPHOTO
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n Alexander Teacher once told me that ‘action follows intention’. At the time I was having treatment for my aching back and hip so this piece of knowledge was a little lost on me, but the phrase has always stayed, and returns with me now. No matter where you are in your life relationship, or just a better golf swing and there may be more that you want to have, a lower handicap? be or do in the future. What is important to There is a very simple and effective understand is our actions follow our technique that many people use now to intentions, so if we want something enough create excitement for what they want and we feel excited and inspired by the next, they use something called ‘Vision thing we are looking at, we Boards”. These are boards will eventually feel drawn to filled with images and ‘take action’ in line with it. inspirational thoughts and ‘IMAGINE WHAT Many people now use feelings that you create for IT WILL visualisation techniques to yourself to look at daily and FEEL LIKE TO literally see the thing they feel inspired by. These HAVE IT’ want to happen in their images can be taken from mind’s eye before it has anywhere, glossy happened. Professional magazines, the internet, golfers imagine the flight of the ball to the photographs you have taken, and phrases hole before they take their swing and make that you hear and see around you. It can be their shot. Entrepreneurs visualise what an opportunity to let yourself go, and be they want to achieve before they make their creative. For many it takes them back to first move. Performers see themselves on the child like creativity they once had stage and imagine the applause that comes cutting and pasting images into a after their flawless performance. Action scrapbook but of course today with apps therefore follows intention, but what it such as Pinterest at your fingertips we can requires is a clear vision and connection to forgo the glue and scissors. how that vision makes them feel. Take some time for yourself and see just If you want more than you currently have what you can envision and create. Once right now you too can use visioning you have created your vision board spend techniques to give you the inspiration and some time with it each day, perhaps first intention that your actions will then follow. thing in the morning and then notice what Why not ask yourself ‘What do I want inspired actions seem to come to you. Let right now?’ A beautiful home, a new car, a your actions follow your intentions.
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BOOK REVIEW THE MIRACLE MORNING by Hal Elrod
Based on the premise that how you start your day largely determines the quality of your day, your work and your life, The Miracle Morning gives you the ultimate morning ritual to get your day off on the right foot. At Lifestyle we love this book and avidly follow Hal Elrod’s example of making the most of an early start. Simply having a level of focus first thing makes a massive difference to your mind-set. If you’re convinced you’re a night owl and that early mornings aren’t your thing, Hal even teaches you how to beat the snooze button. The Miracle Morning has now become an international movement, has been translated into 17 languages and is transforming hundreds of thousands of lives around the world. It is so simple and yet so effective at getting you focussed on creating the life you’ve always wanted. A must read. Available from Amazon £11.93*
TR AVE L
WALKING THE COTSWOLD WAY As the iconic trail turns 10 years old Lucy Grewcock takes us on a magical 56-mile stretch from Painswick to Bath.
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e are sitting on a hilltop above sheep-speckled pastures, with honey-coloured villages nestling in the valley below. As I tear off a piece of malt loaf Andrew Guppy, owner of Cotswold Walks, says “Parachute a local into any Cotswold village and they’ll tell you where they are by the colour of the stone, or so the saying goes ... The stone in the north is golden, and here in the south it’s paler,” he adds. I am walking part of the Cotswold Way. Wending through the Cotswold Hills for 102 miles between Chipping Campden and Bath, parts of this footpath have been hiked for generations. Another legacy of this wool-fuelled wealth is the plethora of When it was elevated to National Trail status in 2007, it received grand churches that loom over each idyllic village. One of the global recognition, government funding, and a series of signposts most striking is All Saints in Selsley. Its French-gothic spire is bearing an acorn symbol. visible from miles around and, with stained glass windows Relatively easy-going, the rolling terrain is ideal for gentle created by the arts and crafts pioneer William Morris, it’s well rambles with long pub lunches, while seasoned hikers can tot worth a peek on your way past. up more miles. Feeling ambitious, I’d decided to tackle a Rising behind the church is Selsley Common – a protected 56-mile stretch between Painswick and Bath in grassland that is peppered with purple orchids in three days. summer. “Over 40% of the Cotswolds used to be Leaving London on a Friday, I take the limestone grassland like this,” Andrew says as I pant ‘THE ROLLING 90-minute train from Paddington to Stroud, uphill. “Today it’s more like 1%”. TERRAIN IS where I hop onto a bus to Painswick. Dubbed One mile later, Andrew says his goodbyes and IDEAL FOR “queen of the Cotswolds,” this chocolate-box disappears down a track to catch a bus back to GENTLE town is famous for its 99 yew trees, which stand Painswick. I continue to Underhill House B&B in RAMBLES’ like leaf-coated lollipops around its church. Dursley, which sits next to the Old Spot Inn – a Cotswold Walks has arranged my Cotswold institution which, on a Saturday night, was accommodation, recommending three B&Bs and as busy as any London pub. transporting my overnight bag between each one. I spend Friday The following morning, I step out into the spring sunshine and night at the 16th-century Falcon Inn, which sits slap, bang on stride across open fields towards the 111ft Tyndale Monument, the Cotswold Way. which commemorates William Tyndale, the 16th-century Andrew joins me for my first day. We set off from Painswick scholar known for his translation of the Bible into English. through lush meadows and flower-filled woodlands. Pretty It’s a cruel 121 steps to the top of the tower but the panoramic cottages are tucked into every dip and fold in the ’wolds. Cattle views are worth it. Catching my breath as the wind whips at my graze peacefully and, when we pass through a farmyard, I peer hair, I look out over the Severn Valley, towards the Brecon over a barn door to find 10 piglets asleep in the hay. Beacons on the horizon far beyond. That night, I rest my legs at “Watch out for the lions,” Andrew warns as I clamber over a The Little Smithy, a quintessential Cotswold cottage in stile. Looking up, I see a herd of sheep staring back. Nicknamed Tormarton village. the “Cotswold lions” because of their golden fleeces, these sheep The next day leads me through shady beech woods that smell are responsible for the region’s historic wealth. of wild garlic, and onwards to the deer park at Dyrham estate,
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Visit Bath Spa for a perfect end to a long walk.
PLAN YOUR JOURNEY Main image, a sunken path on Cotswolds Way. Above right, looking out across Wotton Under Edge.
GETTING THERE Great Western Railway operates direct trains between London and various stations near the Cotswold Way. www.gwr.com
THE FALCON HOTEL, PAINSWICK Dating back to 1554 the Falcon is a small hotel and restaurant situated in the centre of this beautiful Cotswold village. Great hospitality and a warm welcome come as standard. Doubles from £85, B&B. www.falconpainswick.co.uk
PHOTO CREDITS: ANDY LLOYD, WYE DEAN TOURISM
The West Room at Underhill House.
the perfect stop for a cream tea in the café. Seven miles before reaching Bath, I cross a civil war site, where the Battle of Lansdown raged in 1643. Now a pretty pasture trimmed by dry stone walls, it’s hard to imagine the gallons of blood that were shed in this peaceful place. My first proper view of Bath is at the Prospect Stile viewpoint, which peers over a green-lipped bowl with a puddle of city streets in the hollow below. This year Bath marks its 30th year as a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the Cotswold Way leads past the Georgian architecture and Roman landmarks that earned it this status. I push on past the sweeping arc of the Royal Crescent and the triple-tiered townhouses at the Circus, before heading for the city’s heart. The trail finishes beneath Bath Abbey, which towers over the historic Roman Baths and the modern Thermae Spa. Here weary walkers can bathe in naturally hot spring waters, like the Romans did 2,000 years ago. Now in the city centre, I feel suddenly self-conscious in my hiking boots and walking gear but with thousands tackling the Cotswold Way each year, the locals don’t seem to mind. Nor do the staff at the Thermae Spa, who help me stow my rucksack in a locker before I make a beeline for the showers. Minutes later, I am bubbling away in the rooftop pool, letting the mineral-rich waters work their magic on my muscles. It makes the ultimate end to my journey along the Cotswold Way. For more information on walking The Cotswold Way contact www.cotswoldwalks.com.
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UNDERHILL HOUSE, DURSLEY A recently renovated bed and breakfast, Underhill House has idyllic countryside accommodation but with all the modern touches. Doubles from £70, B&B. www.dursleybnb.co.uk
THE LITTLE SMITHY, TORMARTON Smithy House is an attractive 18th century house in the heart of this peaceful village. Guests stay in a pretty cottage adjoining the house with their own sitting room and are welcomed with tea and home-made shortbread. Doubles from £80, B&B. www.littlesmithy.com FOR MORE INFORMATION www.cotswolds.com www.nationaltrail.co.uk/cotswold-way
The Tynedale Monument
PROUD TO BE DIFFERENT
Room to live
Aspirational homes in desirable locations Visit one of our show homes or call us for a brochure www.freemanhomes.co.uk or 01594 543 354 36 LIFESTYLE
CITY B R EAK
A WEEKEND IN CHESTER Full of charm and intrigue, Chester is a beautiful city with so much on offer it will be hard to tear yourselves away.
PHOTO CREDITS: GEORGE-STANDEN/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, DAVEBOLTON/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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andering the cobbled streets you can truly ABOVE, STROLL ALONG immerse yourself THE RIVER DEE. LEFT, in the vibrant atmosphere. Begin DINE AT THE CHESTER your stay by walking the city GROSVENOR. RIGHT, walls, the best way to see the city CLOCK TOWER AND from every angle. Enjoyable either RESIDENT ROMAN ABOVE THE EASTGATE. independently or as part of a tour, the walls partly follow the route of the Shropshire Union Canal and pass the impressive cathedral which hosts events throughout the WHERE TO EAT, DRINK year. With a charming garden, this is a Next on route are the Roman Gardens AND MAKE MEMORIES great spot to sit with a picnic and listen as where you step into the history of this the bells toll. Inside you will find a true fascinating city. With the remains of a TELFORD’S WAREHOUSE sense of calm as the colours of the stained Roman hypocaust and columns you can Set along the banks of the canal, glass windows illuminate the stone floors. learn what life must have been like in Telford’s Warehouse is a restaurant, From here the walls decades gone by. To art gallery and live music venue. continue along to the discover more, a Roman Folk music, latin dancing and open famous clock tower above tour led by authentically mic nights are regular fixtures. ‘A ROMAN TOUR the Eastgate. Look down clad soldiers is a must. telfordswarehousechester.com LED BY upon the shoppers as they The walls are then AUTHENTICALLY come and go from The flanked by the River Dee, STORYHOUSE CLAD SOLDIERS a popular spot to sit and Rows, a collection of half The recently opened Storyhouse is IS A MUST’ timbered galleries which watch the water flow past the cultural hub of the city. Housing form a row of shops above or perhaps embark on a half a theatre, cinema, library, restaurant those on the main street below. With so hour cruise to see the city from a different and two bars you won’t be short of much space for well known and point of view. Nearby is Grosvenor Park things to do here! Footloose, Blood independent shops you could easily spend which is a great place to spend some Brothers and Spamalot are already your whole weekend browsing! family time amongst the very friendly in the diary for the Autumn season. squirrels! This park is particularly storyhouse.com breathtaking in Autumn as the leaves THE CATHEDRAL begin to change colour around you and THE CHESTER GROSVENOR lay crisply on the ground, just waiting for A visit to the Chester Grosvenor in you to crunch through them. the heart of the city will add a touch Finally, before heading home, walk of luxury to your stay. Choose from along the edge of Chester Racecourse. This lunch, dinner or a glass of is a lovely spot to spend some time champagne within the sophisticated outside of the racing season with an surroundings of the Parisian award-winning restaurant and modern brasserie. chestergrosvenor.com gastro pub on site to choose from. Head to visitchester.com to find out more.
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Patchouli & Grapefruit Candle £35 notonthehighstreet
Luxury Reindeer Rug £169 notonthehighstreet
Marble Base Table Lamp £295 IJL Brown
I NSPI R E D BY
AUTUMN COLOURS This season doesn’t need to be all doom and gloom.
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s the evenings turn that little bit colder and the air gets crisper, we search out items that make you feel warm and cosy inside. Some are inspired by the changing colours of nature as the leaves shift to shades of ochre and others are quite simply irresistible winter pieces that we adore. Compiling this shopping edit has reminded us just how wonderful those cooler months are as we look forward to snuggling on the sofa in front of an open fire with a steaming hot drink.
Leggings, available ages 0-4 years £12 Milk Childrenswear
Lime Basil & Mandarin Reed Diffuser £15 notonthehighstreet
Oversized Blanket Cape £69 notonthehighstreet
Antiqued Brass Star Pendant Lamp £510 notonthehighstreet
Personalised Brandy Warmer Set £34.95 notonthehighstreet
Yarnscombe Chunky Hand Knitted Throw £250 notonthehighstreet
Bronze Nesting Tables Large £450 Small £325 IJL Brown Small Clovis Glass Vase £35 IJL Brown
S HOPP I NG
STOCKISTS: INSTAGRAM/FACEBOOK @MILKCHILDRENSWEAR, NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM, IJLBROWN.COM
Add any one of these items to your home this winter and banish the cold. Personalised Tweed Log Carrier £28 notonthehighstreet Hidden Heart Mittens £33.50 notonthehighstreet
Hampton Lowback Arm £595 + 2.5m fabric IJL Brown
New Baby Footprint Penguin £125 notonthehighstreet
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I NTE R IORS
THE RIGHT DINING TABLE Interior Design Specialist Hannah Llewelyn-Jones suggests a few useful points when choosing your next dining table.
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ne of the first decisions that you need to make is how many people you would like to sit at the table and whether you wish to have an extending option to seat extra people at certain times of the year. Once this has been decided you can move onto other aspects such as shape and size. CHOOSING THE SHAPE A rectangular dining table is obviously the most popular. It is universally loved for its form as it offers the visual of clean and well-defined straight lines while serving your needs. Whether it is a lovely evening dinner with the family or grand celebrations, this table plays the ideal host. If the rectangular dining table is the most popular option, the round and oval dining tables are alternative options but when on a larger scale can be space greedy. However, these tables can be very sociable if you have a good sized room. It is not a coincidence that most compact dining spaces feature a beautiful circular dining table, preferably with pedestal legs. Round tables and oval tables also help create a more intimate setting, and in a world dominated by straight lines, the curves offer a welcome change. It is best to opt for a round dining table only when you need to seat up to eight. Larger round dining tables make both conversation and serving a touch inconvenient. But add a stunning pendant light above, along with two plush chairs, and these small, rounded wonders can fashion a warm and romantic setting that is simply magical.
SIZE MATTERS After making up your mind on both the style and the shape of the table, it is time to move ahead to the all-important size. There are a few simple rules that will get you through this difficult part. The golden rule is to ensure there is at least 110cm – 120cm of space between the table and the edge of the adjoining walls or other furniture. This will give you adequate room to move around and will ensure that your guests can get up and sit down without having to cramp themselves into the chair. Another rule is to make sure you allow at least 55cm – 65cm of space around the edge of the table per person as this will ensure that your guests have adequate room with no elbows getting in the way. I suggest you chalk the area out you wish to put the table in, cover it with a tablecloth or newspaper, and then use it as a template for the maximum and minimum size of the table you intend to purchase. While the gap between the table and the walls can be larger, try not to opt for one that looks diminutive in an overwhelmingly large room. We have a large variety of different dining tables in our Herefordshire showroom. Why not join us for a cup of coffee and discuss your requirements with us. Further Interior Design services available from IJL Brown. Find all tables featured in this article at www.ijlbrown.com or pop in and see us at Whitestone Park, Hereford HR1 3SE.
LIFESTYLE 40
1 ed ase erv Ph Res % 50
Northleach
Two New Beautiful & Unique Cotswold Developments 3, 4 & 5 Bedroom Homes Traditional in style with exciting and contemporary layouts and specifications
For more information or to arrange a viewing 01451 263123
sales@thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk www.thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk www.westcombeplace.co.uk
From £445,000 - £925,000
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE Our homes are built to the highest standards and come with a 10 year warranty for your peace of mind. With no maintenance to do and an easy to manage garden you will have time to entertain friends, old and new, in the light airy living spaces and make the most of what village life has to offer.
We will make moving home easy Part Exchange and Help to Buy available From £485,000
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PROUD TO BE DIFFERENT
Superior finish
Aspirational homes in desirable locations Visit one of our show homes or call us for a brochure www.freemanhomes.co.uk or 01594 543 354