Lifestyle Magazine | Issue 05 | 2018

LIFESTYLE ISSU E F IVE * 2018

HOMES

INTERIORS

37

ENTICING EATERIES

OUR GUIDE TO AL FRESCO DINING AND WHERE’S HOT RIGHT NOW

WIN

A LUXURY SPA DAY

L O C AT I O N S

DINING

T R AV E L

ENVIRONMENT

FESTIVAL FEVER BEST OF THE LOCAL FESTS

EXPLORE LEDBURY & LUDLOW

FIRE FOOD ELEVATE YOUR NEXT BBQ

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

The

WESTWOODS Northleach

CONTEMPORARY COTSWOLD LIVING

Spacious four-bedroom homes with Cotswold style exteriors and modern interior layouts.

Featuring generous plot sizes and an unrivalled specification.

View our aspirational show home, open daily.

From ÂŁ465,000 For more information or to arrange a viewing 01451 263 123 www.thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk sales@thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk

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LIFESTYLE IS PUBLISHED BY MF FREEMAN GROUP, RUARDEAN WORKS, VARNISTER ROAD, DRYBROOK, GLOUCESTERSHIRE, GL17 9BH, UK. COPYRIGHT FOR ALL MATERIALS PUBLISHED IN LIFESTYLE REMAINS WITH THE PUBLISHERS. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. PHOTO CREDITS: ALL DEVELOPMENT & HOMES PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVIDRIERAPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK,

I

t’s an inspiring time of year.

We’re rejoicing having fully emerged from the hibernation that is winter. And the approach of summertime always succeeds in brightening our outlook.

For us, this is a particularly exciting season as we begin building beautiful new homes in a picturesque part of the country. The Herefordshire village of Weobley offers the country lifestyle so many are seeking these days, as desire for both a more sustainable way and pace of life only increases. To gain insight into the lovely area and what the development will offer, find more on page 18.

There are innumerable reasons we’re partial to the warmer seasons. We hope this vibrant issue of Lifestyle will elicit your fondness for all that the longer, lighter days bring, from Britain’s famed festivals, some of our favourites on pages 8 and 25, to the superior ice cream and gelato producers, our recommendations on page 40.

Take the opportunity to dine al fresco, our guide on page 28 offers some excellent places to do so. Let us lure you to Ledbury and Ludlow for a weekend away, and allow yourself to be tempted by our roundup of natural, pampering treatments which you’ll find on page 34.

However you intend to spend it, we hope you thoroughly enjoy all that spring and summer bring, and we’ll be back with you in autumn.

40

8 CONTENTS 2 INSIDE VIEW Team building

£9.99 See page 24 for details

4 LUST LIST 6 EXPLORE

25 SUMMER FESTIVALS

Ledbury

Four of the best nearby

8 EXPLORE

26 NEW & NOTEWORTHY

Ludlow

Five places to visit & three new gins

11 ASK AN EXPERT Showers go digital

28 AL FRESCO DINING Where to lunch in the sunshine

12 ARCHITECTS’ VIEW Contextual design

31 FOOD INSPIRATION Barba di frate

15 ASK AN EXPERT Personalised interior design

Luke Freeman & the Lifestyle team.

SUBSCRIBE TO LIFESTYLE Receive 3 issues by post and a £10 One4All gift voucher for only

32 TRAVEL Singapore

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.

17 ASK AN EXPERT Help to buy equity loans

34 WELLBEING

18 LET’S MOVE TO

Nature’s remedies for the body & mind

Oaklands Holt, Weobley

37 JENNY’S GARDEN LIFESTYLE TEAM

20 LET’S MOVE TO

Reap the rewards

Ariconium Place, Weston-under-Penyard

38 SHOPPING INSPIRATION Summery living

22 LET’S MOVE TO The Westwoods & Westcombe Place, Northleach From left, Hayley Coombs, Emma Shotton, Rebecca Jenkins, Jocelyn Heem, Rachel Browne

MAGAZINE EDITOR & CONTENT PRODUCER Jocelyn Heem

MAGAZINE DESIGN & ART DIRECTION Jones Design Create info@jonesdesigncreate.com

PRINT Cambrian Printers Ltd

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40 BEST FOR LAST Superior scoops

COVER IMAGE BY DAVID LOFTUS FROM THE BOOK FIRE FOOD: THE ULTIMATE BBQ COOKBOOK BY DJ BBQ PUBLISHED BY QUADRILLE

TEAM B U I L D I NG Family-owned house builder Freeman Homes believes developing great people is key to a strong foundation and ongoing success.

F

reeman Homes’ head office overlooks the Wye Valley with far reaching views of the Black Mountains from an elevated spot right on the border of Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Freeman Homes is part of the wider family-owned MF Freeman group which employs a team of 98, and counting. Well aware that in order to create superior quality homes, it needs to develop great people, Freeman Homes proactively nurtures its staff.

The company offers its talent exciting professional paths by providing the necessary tools for them to achieve this.

Career development is clearly evident - numerous team members have recently completed or are currently underway with various qualifications, courses and specific training. To find out more about the diverse roles within the company and opportunities for progression, we chatted to a few of the team members.

MILLIE JONES Currently on her way to becoming a Project Surveyor, Millie joined Freeman Homes at 19 as an apprentice, assisting the respective project surveyors in the delivery of each project.

She previously completed an HNC in Construction and The Built Environment at Gloucester College (with Distinctions), enabling her to take on the responsibilities of a ‘trainee’. Millie is now underway with a BSC Hons in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management at UWE Bristol. This degree is growing her confidence and skills across all areas of quantity surveying

including placing orders for materials, managing subcontractor works, providing drawings, schedules, quantities and pertinent information to site and managing customers’ upgrades and options.

Due to graduate in 2020, Millie will then be able to take full responsibility for development projects, ensuring they’re delivered on time, to budget and to the company’s high standard.

What do you enjoy most about working for Freeman Homes?

“Working within a great team where I’m encouraged to take opportunities to grow professionally. Feeling comfortable asking questions and getting guidance in return that develops my skills, knowledge and understanding.”

Favourite project to date?

“Working on The Westwoods and Westcombe Place developments (see page 22) has been my favourite project so far as it was the first larger scale project I have been involved with from the outset and I have learnt a lot while assisting Darren (the site’s Project Surveyor).”

SAM COWBURN Having initially joined the team as a sales co-ordinator working at Freeman Homes’ Mitcheldean development, Woodlands View, in 2016, it’s fair to say Sam’s role has changed dramatically. He now dons a hard hat, hi vis and safety boots, and is based at the beautiful new Northleach

‘WITH VARIOUS QUALIFICATIONS, COURSES AND SPECIFIC TRAINING, CAREER DEVELOPMENT IS CLEARLY EVIDENT’

LIFESTYLE 2

LEADERSHIP TRAINING To encourage inspired leadership across all departments, there are multiple staff members currently underway with Quolux’s LEAD and GOLD programs.

LEAD is a ten-month leadership and business development program, specifically designed for those in management roles within small and medium sized enterprises. Those on the course tackle real-life business issues, drawing upon actual situations they’re facing at work, making this course particularly practical and beneficial to the company. It’s a great opportunity to make valuable connections with other local business leaders and to build a supportive network.

The next step on from LEAD is GOLD which focuses on business planning, strategic leadership, change management, decision making processes and culture change. Each course participant acts as a hypothetical Non-Executive Director for each other’s organisation for a series of stimulated board meetings and workshops.

Some of our team members who are currently completing LEAD and GOLD. From top, Hayley Coombs, Barry Coward, Emma Shotton, and Peter Wharton.

development (The Westwoods and Westcombe Place) where he’s a trainee site manager. Sam’s currently studying a BSc(Hons) in Construction Management at UWE Bristol to qualify as a site manager, a role which involves responsibility for dealing with both the day to day operations of the working site and producing a build programme for the construction. Gaining this invaluable site experience and knowledge whilst completing his degree will set him in great stead for his next career steps; assistant site manager, then on to site manager.

What do you enjoy most about working for Freeman Homes?

“The attitude in which they approach everything they do. The houses we build are complex and a lot of time is put into getting every detail right. You can see in any Freeman Home that they always put the customers first when designing any of their homes.”

Favourite project to date?

“The Northleach development, due to the vast differences between each house. The variation of house types has meant I’ve had the opportunity to learn about many different construction aspects.”

LOUISA EVANS With a wealth of experience producing video content, Louisa’s expertise has helped develop an effective video presence for the group. She recently completed a Diploma in Professional Marketing with the Chartered Institute of Marketing, and is now enjoying using the learning to apply a more strategic approach to communications and marketing. Of all the projects she’s worked on to date, Louisa is particularly proud of ‘Freeman TV’ (MF Freeman’s YouTube channel). Louisa says: “I like how I have been able to use my film background skills in my role and that is what I like about working at

LIFESTYLE 3

MF Freeman - they look at what you want to achieve in your career and really embrace your existing skills and passions to make it happen.”

LUKE FREEMAN Joint Chief Executive, Luke Freeman has recently completed a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) in Leading Business.

Dubbed the ‘MBA for SMEs’, Quolux and the University of Gloucestershire have partnered to offer this practical qualification which is unique from other MBAs in the fact it is centred on work based learning - essentially graduates gain a Master’s level qualification in running their own business. Luke undertook this intensive program to further develop his leadership in order to grow and strengthen the family business.

JOIN THE TEAM We’re always looking for great people.

Email us at workforus@mffreeman.co.uk

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LUST LIST

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LIFESTYLE 4

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LIFESTYLE 5

L E DBURY Enjoy the impressive dining, in depen dent shopping, arts an d culture on offer in this characterful Herefordshire town.

S

ituated on the western border of the majestic Malvern Hills, just half an hour’s drive east of central Hereford, Ledbury is a lovely market town with plenty to offer. The summer months welcome the town’s distinguished poetry festival – now in its 22nd year – as well as Lakefest, an annual weekend event held at Eastnor Castle with world-class music and a myriad of activities. Come winter, the town becomes an extolled destination for fulfilling your festive gifting list, voted by The Guardian ‘YOU’LL BE as one of the ten best European destinations for Christmas shopping.

TEMPTED BY THE “There may be more obvious places for a INDEPENDENT festive UK shopping spree”, the recent SHOPPING article acknowledged, “but little Ledbury BOUTIQUES’ in Herefordshire is a picturesque, stress-free option.”

Just seven minutes’ drive from the town centre you’ll find Verzon House, a country house hotel offering luxury accommodation and excellent dining. Its picturesque positioning is hard to beat and the kitchen and bar here serve the best in local produce. Stroll five minutes up the road and you’ll find The Nest at Little Verzons Farm, a quirky café where the shelves are stocked with local, artisanal olive oils, cheeses, Tinsmiths crisps, crackers and all the other trimmings necessary for a delicious picnic on the Malvern Hills. Slightly further along Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the freshly baked treats, Hereford Road you’ll find Trumpet Corner, comprising of a coffee and lunches at Malthouse Café and Gallery are beautiful tea room and art gallery spaces, as well as hosting guaranteed to satisfy. Don’t forget to pop upstairs to view the regular art and craft events and courses. art gallery while you’re there. For a cosy pub meal try The In the centre of town you’ll be Seven Stars, one of the town’s oldest inns. Much of the meat tempted by the independent and fresh produce served here is sustainably sourced from the shopping boutiques. Hus & inn’s own farm, situated near Malvern.

Hem is filled with a tasteful Ledbury’s Eastnor Castle and its surrounds are inspiring. The selection of modern, historic house is full of medieval armour and fine art, and the Scandinavian-designed impressive grounds - home to an arboretum and a lake – homeware and gifts. Tinsmiths provide spectacular walks, trails and views. Once you’ve inhabits a 16th century timber perused the house’s fascinating history, there’s an adventure framed former Tinsmiths playground, the Knight’s Maze, the Junior Assault Course and workshop which has been the woodland play area to keep the younger family members sensitively renovated and entertained. Adventure seekers can book an off-roading Land extended. Here you’ll find Rover experience, tackling the thrilling Eastnor tracks which timeless pieces for the home, have been used to test every Land Rover product ever made, mostly designed and made in still in use for testing today. the UK, with lighting and Built in the 1600s, the Market House stands on its stilts in the fabrics being the mainstays, heart of the bustling town centre. The striking black and white accompanied by fine art prints, timbered building is home to a twice-weekly charter market blankets, rugs, glass and with stalls selling fresh produce, art and crafts, plants, ceramics. They also regularly Hus & Hem homeware and gifts. exhibit local artists’ work.

Hus & Hem

LIFESTYLE 6

ASK A LOCAL PHOEBE CLIVE Tinsmiths owner.

WHY DO YOU LOVE LIVING HERE? Because the bustling town lies on the land softly rising towards the Malvern Hills and it’s so special that within a few paces of the town’s Market House you are in woods opening to meadows and parkland.

YOUR FAVOURITE TIME OF YEAR IN LEDBURY AND WHY? End of September beginning of October when the cider apples are being collected, the regular Friday Country Market is spilling over with produce and all the exceptional independent shops are getting their new stock in. Tuesday and Saturdays are street market days too.

Above, go off-roading with Land Rover. Below, pottery

by Paul Young at Tinsmiths.

LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL 29th June – 8th July 2018 The famed ten-day festival takes place annually from late June. The biggest poetry festival in the UK, it features poets from all over the world. You can expect live readings, performances, workshops, open mic entertainment, music, exhibitions, films, family events and various street events. poetry-festival.co.uk

ALL VISITORS SHOULD EXPERIENCE...

Strolling along the linear High Street looking into all the alleyways crowded with small, owner-run shops, then proceed to cobbled Church Lane, pop in to see the late 15th century Painted Room and take a circular walk through Eastnor Estate, returning for a well-earned cuppa in one of the many excellent cafes in the town.

PHOTO CREDITS: ROBTARREN.CO.UK, TINSMITHS.CO.UK, EASTNOR.LANDROVEREXPERIENCE.CO.UK, HUSANDHEM.CO.UK

WORTH CHECKING OUT…

LAKEFEST 9th – 12th August 2018 Fun for the whole family, spend the weekend camping against the enchanting backdrop of Eastnor Castle and enjoy a line-up of new and established musicians, watersports on the lake, craft workshops, yoga sessions, tightrope walking, and the adrenaline-fuelled UK BMX Dirt Series Final. lakefest.co.uk

BUTCHER ROW HOUSE MUSEUM

Above, doing the hula at Lakefest. Left, sleep in style at Verzon House.

LIFESTYLE 7

Here you can step back in time and experience Ledbury’s history. Butcher Row House was previously one of 15 houses and shops, many of them butchers, which stood in a row along the now High Street. In 1830 these were bought out by public subscription, and in 1979 this particular house was re-erected on the cobbled Church Lane, just up from the Market House, where Ledbury Civic Society have turned it into a museum full of fascinating artefacts. ledburycivicsociety.org/butcher-rowhouse-museum

LUDLOW Discover why poet, writer an d broadcaster, John Betjeman described Ludlow as “probably the loveliest town in Englan d”.

P

erched on a cliff above the River Teme, Ludlow is located at the heart of the Welsh Marches. The medieval market town is rich in history and architecture and has a wealth of artisanal creativity. In 1945, Christopher Hussey, one of the chief authorities on British domestic architecture of his generation, praised the town: “For sheer visual beauty, coloured by romantic history and substantiated in richness of architectural sequence, Ludlow stands high, perhaps first among English towns”.

The area is home to three fantastic annual food festivals.

Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, the Ludlow Spring Festival presents over 60 food and drink producers, 200 different ales, 150 classic cars and live music. Described as “a beer festival but better”, the event is held within the grounds of the historic Ludlow Castle. Offering something a little different, the Ludlow Magnalonga is a mouth-watering walk for the whole family scheduled for August this year. Starting just outside Ludlow, the between 8 to 10 mile walk combines glorious countryside with delicious tastings put on by some of the area’s top food and drink purveyors. The famed Ludlow Food Festival, now into its 24th year, is a three-day event which brings together more than 180 local food and drink artisans and attracts close to 20,000 visitors.

One of the town centre’s gastronomic gems is Harp Lane Deli. Standing adjacent to an alleyway that was once populated exclusively by butchers, this independent delicatessen serves good coffee, messy hot deli

Ludlow food festival at Ludlow Castle

sandwiches, salads and a selection of artisanal delights. Upon satisfying your appetite here, walk around the corner to Black Bough boutique on Market Street – a beautifully curated shop stocked with gorgeous homewares, gifts and vintage watches.

Art appreciators would be wise to make their next stop the Twenty Twenty Gallery pop-up at The Square. Having opened in September 2017, this exhibition space is an extension of the reputable Twenty Twenty Gallery in Much Wenlock, Shropshire, where you’ll find regular exhibitions of work by some of the best British artists and makers across ceramics, glass, furniture, sculpture, paintings and prints.

Sitting just south west of Ludlow Castle on the banks of the River Teme and overlooking Dinham Bridge, is CSONS at The Green Café - a new café-restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and everything in between, with Friday and Saturday dinners expected soon too. The chefs keep the menu here dynamic, getting creative with the best seasonal produce available each day from local suppliers.

LIFESTYLE 8

Above left, carrots from Ludlow Food Centre. Left, spa with a view at Fishmore Hall hotel.

©NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/ELEANOR DOBSON

©NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/ELEANOR DOBSON

Above left, art installation in the garden at Berrington Hall. Above right, inside the installation. Below, taken at Ludlow Spring Festival.

5

DATES TO DIARISE… A few added incentives to book a weekend in Ludlow.

1. LUDLOW SPRING FESTIVAL 12th & 13th May 2018 ludlowspringfestival.co.uk

2. LUDLOW FRINGE FESTIVAL 16th June – 1st July 2018 ludlowfringe.co.uk

3. LUDLOW MAGNALONGA Sunday 12th August 2018 magnalonga.co.uk While exploring Ludlow, it’s well worth taking a quick trip south down the A49 to the National Trust’s Berrington Hall to see the striking pink pineapple. Titled ‘Look! Look! Look!’, despite the prominent sculpture being nigh on impossible to miss, the contemporary ‘LUDLOW STANDS creation is by internationally renowned HIGH, PERHAPS artists Heather and Ivan Morison. The FIRST AMONG masterpiece was inspired by the decadent social lives of the Georgians. Pineapples are ENGLISH TOWNS’ believed to have been imported during the eighteenth century as a statement of wealth, and there is evidence indicating they were grown in the garden at Berrington. It’s also a nod to the Georgians’ fondness of popping up temporary pavilions, made of wood, canvas or material, for entertaining, dining, reading or even for illicit meetings. Grand in size, visitors are able to step inside and gaze at its exposed intricacies.

For a luxurious stay in Ludlow, the elegant Fishmore Hall hotel provides the perfect escape. Situated just seven minutes from the town centre but surrounded by the vast Shropshire countryside, this stunning Georgian house offers 15 individually styled, modern bedrooms. Unwind at the hotel’s splendid spa which offers an outdoor cedar wood wellness hot tub, thermal cabins and an extensive range of heavenly treatments. You’re guaranteed to leave here feeling decidedly refreshed.

LIFESTYLE 9

4. LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVAL 7th - 9th September 2018 foodfestival.co.uk

5. LOOK! LOOK! LOOK! Art installation in the garden at Berrington Hall, Herefordshire.

June 2017 – 12th December 2019 nationaltrust.org.uk/berrington-hall

Ludlow Food Centre

SHOWERS

MAKE IT RAIN The fashionable new way to take a shower unsurprisingly involves your smartphone…

E

ver wish your shower would pause and wait for you once sufficiently heated? That you could control the shower’s duration remotely when your teenager has outstayed their allotted time in the bathroom? Or that running a bath to the perfect temperature and water level was possible at the touch of a button while remaining reclined on the sofa?

With these ideals now readily available realities, Craig Baker of Mira Showers one of the exceptional brands Freeman Homes feature within its superior specification for each new home – provides the lowdown on digitised dousing.

Packed with technology and innovative features, digital showers are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to a mixer shower. Designed to be simple to use; the minimalist shower controllers feature push buttons to adjust your temperature easily and to switch on and off. The Mira digital shower range comprises award-winning products, the latest technology and stylish, contemporary designs. Put simply, a Mira digital shower will definitely elevate your new bathroom.

W H AT I S A D I G I TA L S H OW E R ?

A digital shower works in the same way as a mixer shower, taking water from your hot and cold supplies and mixing it to reach your desired temperature.

However, digital showers offer you ultimate control of the experience, by digitally controlling your shower temperature and flow.

ABOVE, A STYLISH MIRA DIGITAL SHOWER WILL ELEVATE ANY BATHROOM EXPERIENCE. LEFT, THE SLEEK CONTROLLER.

D O E S I T LO O K D I F F E R E N T F R O M A M I X E R S H OW E R ?

offering an easy way to watch your water usage, select the Eco function for the display to show a five minute timer. For the ultimate showering experience, choose the Mira Platinum Dual; this clever digital shower delivers a spa-like experience when you have both the deluge showerhead and separate handshower working simultaneously.

Mira digital showers are well-known for their minimalist, stylish aesthetic, with discreet and compact controllers. The F O R U LT I M AT E C O N T R O L ?

Mira Mode has a sleek controller with LED The Mira Mode is the latest, must-have lights that ‘pulse’ when your shower is digital shower. Recognised by a Red Dot warming up and then remain static once design award, its sleek chrome finish and it has reached your desired temperature. minimalist design adds effortless class to Alternatively, the Mira your bathroom. Plus, you Platinum controller can be can truly personalise your ‘DIGITAL rotated to adjust the water experience using the free flow. All Mira digital SHOWERS OFFER Mira Mode smartphone app showers come with which allows you to switch YOU ULTIMATE premium shower fittings to the shower on and off, set CONTROL’ complete the look. the maximum temperature and shower duration. When W H AT A R E T H E F E AT U R E S ? you choose the Mira Mode Shower and Wireless digital showers, such as the Mira Bathfill, you can personalise up to 10 bath Platinum, have a welcoming warm-up pre-sets; so whether it’s the kids’ bath mode which means your digital shower time or a long, relaxing soak, you can will pre-heat the water to your ideal enjoy your perfect bath every time, at just temperature and then pause until you’re the touch of a button. ready to step in. Keep track of the time For more information and to see the full with the digital clock display, and, range, visit mirashowers.co.uk/digital

LIFESTYLE 11

CONTEXTUAL DESIGN

SENSE OF COMMU N ITY Public consultation is an essential part of any good development process. An exemplar of the practice, Freeman Homes demonstrates the value of effective public engagement and how the two-way process informs the early stages of design for a development of new homes.

I

n December last year, Freeman Homes and Bristol-based architects Origin3 Studio held a public consultation in Newnham on Severn to present the first draft plans for a proposed housing development. The scheme comprises approximately 80 properties on the northern edge of the Forest of Dean village. The developer was joined by planning, landscape, ecology and drainage experts to ensure the team’s combined knowledge covered all relevant fields for effective consultation. With an impressive turnout of over 120 local residents, the event provided invaluable community feedback that is informing the design process now underway.

Good engagement is about much more than just ‘ticking a box’. Meaningful and effective community engagement

should be inclusive and benefit all parties involved. It should encourage communities to have an influence over the shape of the places they live in that ultimately results in better development schemes.

Luke Freeman, joint CEO of MF Freeman Group explains: “Our main motivation for effective engagement during the early stages of a proposal is to improve the scheme and create added value for all. It is a two-way process of openly sharing and exchanging information and results in better developments that work successfully within their environment.”

Architect David Rhodes

Luke Freeman

LIFESTYLE 12

For the local community, the collaborative process provides an opportunity to better understand what is proposed and explore how a development can add value to an area. Local people bring local knowledge and play a vital role in helping to identify which options work best within a local context.

DESIGNING THE DEVELOPMENT Architect David Rhodes of Origin3 Studio shares their approach to the design, following the public consultation: How are you approaching the overall design of the development?

This particular site is on the edge of a village so engagement with the community and adjoining landowners is of upmost importance. When we talk to the local residents, we often find that there is genuine interest in the size and quality of new dwellings, and concerns are also often raised about repetition and lack of variety which can typify suburban developments. The preference at Newnham is for uniqueness and contextual design, rather than the

Images show indicative architectural impressions at Newnham on Severn.

generic. Our design strategy mirrors developments, we like to place landscape these concerns. Successful developments design and community landscape assets involve variation in both the appearance at the heart of the scheme. In semi-rural of the buildings but also the street environments such as our work at pattern and scale of space.

Newnham, we like to focus on We feel strongly that housing permeability and spaces which work for developments should not have a single both future residents and the wider style but can benefit from taking cues community. For example, at Newnham from both the we identified immediate and pedestrian linkages ‘LOCAL PEOPLE BRING wider context. to the wider LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND In this type of landscape allowing environment, on a seamless PLAY A VITAL ROLE’ the edge of transition between an established the existing and the settlement and conservation area, we proposed. We also identified and will take inspiration from the extended existing community assets, existing without crossing the line of such as allotments and re-instatement pastiche replication. of historic features like orchard The overall approach will provide a planting. These factors are extremely transition from village to rural, not just important in establishing an stylistically, but also spatially which integrated open environment and sense creates a sense of place for residents and of shared ownership. the wider community.

How have you approached the design of What is your approach to landscape the individual dwellings? design in such locations?

We aim to design dwellings which work When we initially look at housing within their own parameters of siting in

LIFESTYLE 13

relationship to both other buildings and the wider environment. For example, two and a half or three-storey dwellings are located on lower ground or in the centre of the site in order to be in keeping with the wider context. Large picture windows are used for master bedrooms to take advantage of views while not compromising privacy. For terraces and higher density areas, great care has been taken to position principal and secondary elevations in order to maintain privacy and maximise views.

On a technical level, we are ever more conscious of specifying high performance thermal envelopes which often go over and beyond the building regulations minimum, in order to minimise energy costs. This is a common goal for Origin3 Studio and runs through our projects large or small. Finally, we use a palette of robust materials that include brickwork, through-colour render, treated timber and weatherboard. This approach will result in almost zero maintenance homes at the future development in Newnham on Severn.

To find out more information about Newnham on Severn please email marketing@mffreeman.co.uk, call 01594 543354 or visit freemanhomes.co.uk

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INTERIORS

ST Y L E I T YO U R W AY Lydia Walshe from bespoke furniture and interiors experts, I&JL Brown offers tips to personalise your home.

F

TOP, BE BRAVE WITH COLOUR. MIDDLE, ADD PERSONALITY WITH WALLPAPER. BELOW, FURNITURE SHOULD BE COMPLIMENTARY.

TH I N K I N G AB OUT F U R N ITU R E

or some, styling your own home can be a little overwhelming, especially if you are working with a blank canvas and, like most people, within a budget.

However, whether you’re aiming for a chic dramatic look, or a cosy country feel, it’s all easily achievable.

It’s easy to be influenced by others and the ongoing trends of the ‘must haves’ and the ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’. But when it comes to styling your own home, you must follow your instincts to benefit from the colours and textures you love, as well as considering the aspects of the specific room you’re working with.

W O R K I N G W I T H C O LO U R

It’s quite easy to talk yourself out of colours you love when influenced by those around you keenly offering their opinions. Whilst their point of view might be helpful, you mustn’t overlook what you want or the style and designs you wish to create.

When it comes to colour, there are a few things you need to consider. The size of the room is important and can be deceptive, the amount of natural light it gets and the direction it faces is crucial.

Understanding tones and depth of colours which work in your home is a big step to creating that perfect atmosphere. One mistake a lot of people make is taking a small dark north facing room and painting it stark white to try and lighten it and to give the illusion of space. This however, can achieve the opposite, and before you’ve even started you’re left with a room you’re not in love with. By using warm undertones, you can create a homely atmosphere with a depth of colour which makes the room feel uplifting and larger. For inspiration visit our Farrow & Ball display in our Hereford showroom.

Before placing your furniture, carefully consider the space you’re working with. Understanding not only your needs but the surrounding area is a big step to finalising your perfect home.

You don’t want your room to appear overwhelming by cramming too many pieces in but at the same time you don’t want to lose your stunning furniture in a room that’s far too large.

Working in proportion to the room is a must without forgetting the essentials.

When choosing your dining table, consider both the style you want and the table’s finish, for example a heavy distress on oak for that antique farmhouse look or a light distress on a scrubbed painted top for that modern breakfast table look.

Furniture in a home should never have to match, however, each piece should complement the others. Adding that quirky personal piece or even colour to furniture is something that you shouldn’t overthink or hesitate to do. Giving the room a bit of character personalises your home, whether it’s with fabric to dress the windows, upholstery on a set of dining chairs or just a couple of bright scatter cushions on a corner sofa, don’t stifle your creativity.

For further interior design guidance, the I & JL Brown team are always happy to assist. For more information, phone 01432 851991 or email lydia@ijlbrown.com

LIFESTYLE 15

New Lighting Gallery at

ijlbrown Set the scene in any interior with the addition of impeccable lighting.

With a range of styles available, I & JL Brown have gathered a selection of lighting options from leading designers to give you an extensive choice for your home.

Discover the new collection at I & JL Brown, Whitestone Park, Whitestone, Hereford HR1 3SE LIFESTYLE 16 Tel 01432 851991 ijlbrown.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE MORTGAGE BRAIN, EMAIL INFO@THEMORTGAGEBRAIN.NET OR VISIT THEMORTGAGEBRAIN.NET PHOTO CREDITS: RAWPIXEL.COM ON UNSPLASH

FINANCE

NEED HELP TO B U Y ?

The government initiative is proving popular, and not just for first time buyers, explains Terry Sutherland from The Mortgage Brain.

W

e’ve just seen a record year for the government’s flagship scheme, the Help to Buy equity loan.

Figures from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government show that over 32,000 new build homes were bought using the governmentsubsidised loan in the first three quarters of 2017. This is a 23% increase on the 26,000 homes that had been purchased using the scheme by the close of Q3, 2016, proving the scheme to be currently as popular as ever.

Over 350,000 people have now taken advantage of the various Help to Buy

‘OVER 350,000 PEOPLE HAVE NOW TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF THE VARIOUS HELP TO BUY SCHEMES’

schemes, with over 144,000 completions taking place. As one of the main motivations behind the scheme was supporting younger buyers, the government will be glad to see the majority (81%) of Help to Buy completions are by first-time buyers.

to use the scheme. However, if you are a homeowner, as long as you have sold your home (subject to contract) then you are also able to benefit from Help to Buy. In this instance it would work in exactly the same way as for a first time buyer, provided this new purchase would be the only home that you own.

HOW CAN IT HELP?

One of the soundest investments you can make is in owning your own home, however, getting on the property ladder, or sometimes moving up the ladder, is not an easy task nowadays. If you’re looking to buy your first home or selling a home and moving up the ladder, Help to Buy may be able to assist.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THESE HELP TO BUY EQUITY LOANS?

Current homeowner A popular misconception is that first home buyers are the only ones eligible

LIFESTYLE 17

First time buyer After you put down 5% of the property price as a deposit, the government then loans you another 20%, raising your deposit to 25% in total. With a 75% mortgage, you should also get more favourable terms from your mortgage lender. The equity loan is interest free for five years after which you pay 1.75% of the loan’s value for a year, then 1.75% plus 1% after that. The equity loan is exclusively available on new build homes and the property must be worth less than £600,000.

LET’S MOVE TO

OAK L A N D S HOLT , WEOBLEY A new development coming soon to the traditional village of Weobley will combine countryside living with modern day luxuries.

‘ITS CENTRAL STREETS LINED WITH STRIKING BLACK AND WHITE TIMBER BUILDINGS’

C

hoosing to embrace village life and be surrounded by beautiful countryside is becoming increasingly popular as more people vouch for a sustainable, simpler lifestyle.

The Herefordshire village of Weobley offers that lovely compact village feel with picturesque surroundings.

Weobley is distinctive, its central streets lined with striking black and white timber buildings, dating back to medieval times. Leisurely strolling the Jubilee Heritage Trail, which takes you along a few of the main streets past numerous points of interest, is an excellent way to get a feel for the village and its rich history. For weekend outings, there are numerous towns and a city all within a close drive.

Forest of Dean-based house builder, Freeman Homes, is building a new development of high quality homes in Weobley this year where the design of the exteriors is in keeping with the area’s more traditional architecture. The homes will range in size from two-bedroom to five-bedroom, taking into account different stages in life and family types.

You can expect spacious rooms, living areas that flow nicely for a modern style of living and entertaining, and easy-tomaintain gardens. The interior specification of these homes will be completed to a high standard, with NEFF integrated appliances, underfloor heating and Porcelanosa tiles.

With the show home scheduled to be available for viewings from as early as Autumn 2018, you’d be wise to register your interest now to avoid missing out.

For more information about Oaklands Holt, please call 01594 543354, email sales@oaklandsholt.co.uk or visit freemanhomes.co.uk

DINING OUT NEARBY JULES RESTAURANT Tucked in the heart of Weobley, Jules has been serving delicious country cooking since 1985. jules-restaurant.co.uk LAL BAGH For heart-warming Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine with a modern twist. lalbagh.uk.com THE STAGG INN 20 minute drive Most of the menu at this award-winning country pub is made from scratch or produced on site, from the bread and pickles to the puddings. thestagg.co.uk THE BOOKSHOP 25 minute drive This popular Hereford restaurant serves a show-stopping Sunday roast. aruleoftum.com/thebookshop BURGER SHOP HEREFORD 25 minute drive Brimming with locally sourced fillings, these burgers boast a big reputation. aruleoftum.com/burger-shop-hereford

SHOPPING THE WORKHOUSE GALLERY & CAFÉ Nestled in Presteigne, this cute combined café and homewares shop is sure to tempt you into a purchase. the-workhousegallery-cafe.myshopify.com

Above, a traditional street in Weobley.

Right, enjoy lunch at this award-winning country pub.

LIFESTYLE 18

A NIGHT AWAY

Above, Hay Festival inspires all ages.

Below, glassware from The Workhouse Gallery and Café.

Above, computer generated image of The Hardy house type at Oaklands Holt.

IMAGE OF HOUSE TYPE IS INDICATIVE OF PROPERTIES BEING BUILT AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE PHOTO CREDITS: MARSHA ARNOLD

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 Airport in under 2 hours.

Bus services are regular and run 6 days a week to nearby towns and cities for those that don’t drive.

SCHOOLS Both the primary and secondary schools in Weobley are incredibly well thought of and rated as “good” with Ofsted.

OLD VICARAGE VOWCHURCH This renovated former Vowchurch vicarage, surrounded by four acres of garden, an orchard and a paddock, sleeps twelve and offers luxuries like a hot tub, sauna, woodburner, top of the range charcoal barbecue, beautiful modern kitchen and spacious bedrooms. oldvicaragevowchurch.co.uk UPPER HOUSE & SPA The ethos at this well-appointed selfcatering retreat is ‘stay, revive and experience’. Guests can book either the beautifully restored Long Barn which sleeps four or the Hayloft Cottage, a favourite with honeymooners.

Surrounding the retreat is 70 acres of indigenous woodland with walking tails which offer spectacular views. Stargaze, mountain bike, fly-fish, kayak, pony trek or indulge in a day of spa treatments. upperhouseandspa.co.uk

FESTIVALS HAY FESTIVAL Just over a 20 minute drive away, Hay-on-Wye is home to the prestigious annual literature and arts festival.

24th May – 3rd June 2018 hayfestival.com

Above, feast on a Chimchurri burger at Burger Shop. Below, take in the view at Upper House and Spa.

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.

For a full list of all the amazing activities, clubs and groups in Weobley visit www.weobley.org

LIFESTYLE 19

LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVALS Ludlow, just half an hour from Weobley, presents three acclaimed festivals annually in celebration of the exceptional standard of locally sourced food available.

These take place in May, August and September, see our ‘Festival Fever’ feature on page 31 for more details.

LET’S MOVE TO

AR ICON I U M PL AC E , WE STON - U N DE R - PE N YARD HEREFORDSHIRE This development of high quality new homes offers the chance to embrace a countryside lifestyle with the magnificent Wye Valley only moments from your doorstep.

Above, Baileys Home for eclectic interior pieces. Below, the beautiful Wye Valley.

T

he small Herefordshire village of Weston-under-Penyard has great views out to the surrounding countryside and is situated conveniently close to the bustling town of Ross-onWye. Herefordshire’s little villages are highly desirable and it’s not hard to see why. The county is home to two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and an increasingly growing independent scene, garnering a reputation for fine food and boutique shopping.

The Wye Valley is less than ten minutes from Weston-under-Penyard and is a gateway to many weekends’ worth of walks and bike rides with much to explore. The Pedal a Bike Away trail centre has a range of waymarked routes – some of the best in the country – from gentle off-road family rides to technical cross-country routes and exhilarating downhill lines.

In the heart of the Wye Valley, Symonds educated on the area’s Roman history by Yat straddles the River Wye and offers an Archaeologist Thomas Wellicome who abundance of outdoor showed the children some of pursuits. Hike to the top of the fascinating finds he has ‘ARICONIUM Symonds Yat Rock which discovered in their village, BEING THE towers 120 metres above the including artefacts linked to river, and from this vantage the iron industry from over ORIGINAL point, during April to August, 2,000 years ago. They were ROMAN NAME there’s the unique chance to then given the opportunity to FOR THE AREA’ watch Peregrine Falcons suggest a name. The winner, while they hunt and raise Gemma Smith, put forward their young. A short drive north, the ‘Ariconium Place’ – Ariconium being the remarkable ruins of the 11th century original Roman name for the area. medieval Goodrich Castle are well worth The Ariconium Place development will exploring up close. include 35 homes in total which will be a Inspired by the village’s past, to decide mix of detached and semi-detached, with on a name for this new development a traditional cottage-esque exterior. coming soon to Weston-under-Penyard , Contemporary spatial layouts will allow Freeman Homes held a competition for for flexible family living and luxury year five and six students at the local CE features such as underfloor heating will Primary School. The students were first ensure the homes are a pleasure to live in.

The modern kitchens will feature integrated appliances.

With the first phase of homes due to be released from early 2019, register your interest now to be kept up to date on the development’s progress.

For more information and to stay informed of the Ariconium Place development progress, phone 01594 543354, email marketing@mffreeman.co.uk or visit freemanhomes.co.uk

LIFESTYLE 20

Try a floristry class at Tudor Farmhouse.

WHAT’S NEARBY ROSS-ON-WYE For boutique shopping, pop in to Baileys Home, for expertly shaken cocktails there’s Leonards at 39, and for dining out there’s Restaurant No3 or Harry’s Restaurant at The Chase Hotel where you should also try the high tea. For a pub meal, head to The Mill Race in nearby Walford. All hairdressing and beauty requirements can be taken care of with two excellent salons, Simply Stunning and Reds Hair Company.

Left, ride right through the trees at Pedal A Bike Away. Above, exterior of existing Freeman Homes house in Weston-under-Penyard.

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: LINDA WRIGHT

SCHOOLS Weston-under-Penyard Church of England Primary School is housed in a traditional Victorian building and has just celebrated its 150th anniversary. It is federated with Whitchurch CE Primary School.

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.

Drink cocktails at Leonards at 39.

EXPLORE F OR A DAY OF RETAIL TH E RAPY, LE DB U RY’S IN DE PE N DE NT BOUTIQU ES OF F E R AN ECLECTIC ARRAY OF INSPIRATION.

HARTS BARN COOKERY SCHOOL For those keen to better their culinary repertoire, Harts Barn Cookery School in Longhope hosts a variety of culinary classes including bread-making, pasta, cheese, patisserie, Asian, Moroccan and Chinese cuisine. The ‘Forage and Feast’ class is new for 2018, where you head out with a trained forager before creating a meal with your findings, and the new Family Cooking Experience makes for fun, quality time together. hartsbarncookeryschool.co.uk MONMOUTH Just 20 minutes away, Monmouth has many highly praised eateries to try. Two of our favourites are The Whitebrook (see page 28) and Green & Jenks (see page 40).

LEDBURY Eastnor Castle hosts numerous festivals and is a pleasure to visit. eastnorcastle.com TUDOR FARMHOUSE Try your hand at the floristry courses offered at Tudor Farmhouse – a luxury country hotel in Clearwell, just 30 minutes south, which is also fabulous for a celebratory meal or romantic night away. tudorfarmhousehotel.co.uk

Learn new culinary skills at Harts Barn Cookery School.

LIFESTYLE 21

LET’S MOVE TO

THE W E ST WO OD S AND W E STC OM BE PL AC E NORT H L E AC H These new developments of high quality, modern homes are located in quite possibly the UK’s most desirable area.

I

Above top, exterior view of The Westwoods. Above right, light and modern kitchens.

Below, a spacious en-suite bathroom at Westcombe Place.

t’s not surprising living in the Cotswolds is so appealing. The area is exceptionally charming, epitomising the attraction of England’s countryside villages. Its distinctive aesthetic has become famous - stone walls, honeycoloured houses and a distinguishing paint palette all complements the surrounding countryside just so.

Northleach is a quintessential Cotswold town with the unique benefit of being much quieter than some of its busier neighbours which tourists flock to. There is no shortage of ways to spend your leisure time here. Picturesque pubs, plenty of paths for rambling, and the to ensure no two are the same, which bustling Bourton-on-the-Water, adds to the developments’ character.

Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester and There is a mix of three, four and Cheltenham all within 20 minutes’ drive. five-bedroom homes. All of the bedrooms The homes at these new Northleach are generously sized with an abundance developments, The of built-in storage. The Westwoods and Westcombe ‘NO TWO ARE THE spacious living areas have Place, provide the best of been designed in a ‘broken SAME, WHICH all worlds: they feature plan’ style – a flexible ADDS TO THE contemporary layouts, layout where the kitchen, DEVELOPMENTS’ dining and lounge areas all modern day luxuries and a high specification; they’re flow nicely between each CHARACTER’ surrounded by scenic other but can also be closed countryside, some boasting off when necessary. Each views across the Leach Valley; and, while home has spacious bathrooms and Northleach offers some of the benefits of a en-suites with modern fittings, a separate rural location, they are conveniently utility room and a landscaped garden. located for all local amenities.

The specification is excellent. Stunning The exteriors are very much in keeping Silestone quartz worktops and integrated with the area’s architectural style, NEFF appliances have been selected to featuring Cotswold stone detailing, slate create a modern kitchen that will be a roofs and timber windows. Of the 20 pleasure to cook in. There is a Worcester homes, each has differentiating aspects Bosch Greenstyle woodburner in the

LIFESTYLE 22

USEFUL FACTS

Above, generously sized bedrooms as standard. Below, woodburners keep sitting rooms cosy.

SCHOOLS Northleach C of E Primary School is a close walk away. It’s an Ofsted good school with outstanding features.

Just a 12 minute drive away is The Cotswold School, a comprehensive school in Bourton-on-the-Water which achieved an outstanding Ofsted status.

TRAVEL Both Bristol Airport and Birmingham Airport are 80 minutes’ drive away.

Kingham train station is less than a 30 minute drive away and runs a direct route into London, taking approximately 90 minutes, depending on the time of day.

PHOTO CREDITS: FARPEAK.CO.UK

Above right, the outdoor climbing wall at Far Peak. Below, sophisticated dining at The Wheatsheaf Inn.

living room, wet underfloor heating in all bathrooms and LED recessed spotlighting throughout the house.

Porcelanosa wall and floor tiling is used in the contemporary bathrooms.

The development has been purposefully designed to feel like a neighbourhood in itself. Four interconnected streets meet in a little courtyard in the centre, and cul-de-sac streets slow traffic making it a safer environment for children.

But don’t take our word for it, visit our show homes to see for yourself. For appointments and more information, please call 01451 263123, email sales@thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk or visit thewestwoodsnorthleach.co.uk

WHAT’S NEARBY FAR PEAK Far Peak is an activities centre set within 25 acres of woodland, also home to some local wildlife. Here you’ll find the Far Peak Climbing Centre which offers a variety of indoor climbing walls as well as a thrilling 15 metre outdoor tower with 20 climb lines. Children, novices and practiced climbers will all be entertained.

There are bikes to hire to explore the family-friendly tracks, a low ropes course, numerous walking trails, camping and star gazing at night. The onsite café, deli and bar serves homemade meals and freshly baked treats which can be enjoyed in the yurt or picnic-style relaxing on the outdoor beanbags. farpeak.co.uk MECHANICAL MUSIC MUSEUM AND CAFÉ BAR Step back in time and discover a variety of self-playing musical instruments – the pride and joy of our previous generations.

All of the instruments have been lovingly maintained in the onsite workshop. The cosy Museum Café Bar serves freshly ground coffee and homemade cakes. mechanicalmusic.co.uk THE WHEATSHEAF INN This ivy-clad inn is an excellent option for a meal, a few drinks or an overnight stay.

Sophisticated and stylish, the food here is quality with the chefs mixing local ingredients with a rustic charm. theluckyonion.com/property/thewheatsheaf

LIFESTYLE 23

Win a luxury

Cowley Manor

spa day

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freemanhomes

Want to WIN a luxury spa day for two?

We’re on the hunt for the most interesting location to read Lifestyle magazine. Take a photo reading Lifestyle and post on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #WhereDoYouReadYours for a chance to win a spa day for two at Cowley Manor, near Cheltenham.

Competition closes 31st August 2018. For terms and conditions see www.mffreeman.co.uk/WhereDoYouReadYours

LIFESTYLE

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LIFESTYLE

LEFT AND ABOVE, COUNTRY FUN AT DAYLESFORD SUMMER FESTIVAL.

ABOVE, FAIRPORT CONVENTION WILL BE AT NEWNHAM LIVE.

DAYS OUT

FESTIVAL FEVER Bring on summer and its fantastic festivals.

From the food-focussed to those that’ll have you dancing the weekend away, here are four to familiarise yourself with.

NEWNHAM LIVE, 7th – 16th June 2018 This year’s folk, blues and boogie festival promises to be the biggest yet. The impressive line-up includes The Carrivick Sisters – the immensely talented twin sisters from South Devon, Red Priest, Michael Messer’s Mitra, Dino Baptise, and The Ric Sanders Trio and Fairport Convention. Each of the festival’s events will be held in Newnham on Severn’s beautiful St Peter’s Church.

Profits will go to the Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice, the restoration of St Peter’s Church bells and other community projects. Concerts start at 7.30pm with the festival bar opening two hours earlier. newnhamlive.org DAYLESFORD SUMMER FESTIVAL, 9th June 2018 A fabulous day out for the whole family, last year’s was the biggest yet with cookery classes, floristry, a cake decorating competition, honey displays, talks from the farm’s expert team, farm animals, dog shows, and of course the organic food Daylesford is famed for. This convivial day’s outing is the ideal way to mark the start of summer. daylesford.com/events

ABOVE AND BELOW, FOOD DEMOS AND TALKS AT ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL. LEFT, DON’T MISS THE CARRIVICK SISTERS AT NEWNHAM LIVE.

ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL, 15th & 16th September 2018 Showcasing the best locally farmed, grown and artisan-made produce, and the passionate purveyors promoting Britain’s food scene, the annual festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

The brainchild of two local farmers in response to the lack of consumer confidence in British produce, it’s grown into an extolled event, now attracting 30,000 visitors and world renowned chefs. Sample first-class food and beverages, discover new and future food trends and some of the industry’s emerging stars, and partake in masterclasses and hands-on-cookery lessons. abergavennyfoodfestival.com

LIFESTYLE 25

EL DORADO FESTIVAL, 29th June – 1st July 2018 Fireworks, fire dancers, feathers, bright lights, vibrantly-clad, glitter-faced festival goers and a tidal wave of energy transforms the Eastnor Castle grounds for three days each year. This year’s festival is sure to be huge, with Sister Sledge the first headliner to be announced. Showcasing a diverse line-up of international and local acts, previous performers include Craig David, Groove Armada and Sky FX. eldoradofestival.com

N EW VE N U ES

THE NEW & THE NOTEWORTHY Keeping you informed of the places and products worthy of becoming acquainted with.

MALT & ANCHOR, CIRENCESTER Winner of ‘The Best Newcomer Fish and Chip Shop’ at the 2018 National Fish & Chip Awards, this little gem anchored up on Cirencester’s Castle Street last year. Whether you’re dining in or taking away, the fresh, sustainably sourced choices from this modernised “chippy” menu won’t disappoint. The specialty fish and chips comprise prime fillets of MSC certified Cod or Haddock cooked to order in the restaurant’s secret batter, accompanied by homemade tartar sauce, twice-cooked chips, mushy peas and a fresh lemon wedge. They also serve tasty tempura battered prawns, panko coated calamari and bangers and mash with sausages from Jesse Smith’s Butchers, among much more. Washing it down is done in style, with prosecco cocktails, a bottle of champagne and Hooked small batch ales on offer. maltandanchor.co.uk

THE BARN AT SEVERN & WYE SMOKERY, WESTBURY-ON-SEVERN Famed for their award-winning smoked salmon, the clever team behind Severn & Wye Smokery decided to turn the derelict farmyard outbuildings adjacent to their Smokery, into a dream destination for seafood lovers. The Barn incorporates a restaurant, café, fish market and food store.

Predominantly fish-based, the restaurant and café menus also include locally farmed meat and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant’s open-plan theatre style kitchen comprises a charcoal grill for barbecuing whole seabass, turbot and steaks, and a plancha grill for quickly searing and caramelising fish fillets, scallops and crevettes. Selfcontained by a floor-to-ceiling glass frontage entrance, the Fish Market is an impressive fresh fish counter selling a vast selection of fresh seasonal British and international fish and shellfish and offering specialist cooking advice. To accompany the seafood, The Food Hall is full of artisanal ingredients, home to a Hobbs House bread counter, over 50 different local and international cheeses, locally farmed meat, antipasti and local beverages. severnandwye.co.uk

THE GREEN ROOM, MALMESBURY An exciting new gastronomic space has been unveiled at Whatley Manor hotel. Sitting alongside the formal restaurant, The Dining Room, it will be used for various dining events, cookery demonstrations, cheese and wine tastings, cocktail making classes, small music events, as well as being available for private hire. The Green Room will be helmed by outstanding Danish chef Laetizia Madsen, whose previous tenures span across the globe including Sarong in Bali and most recently the three Michelin-starred Benu in San Francisco. A great venue for up to 24 guests, keep an eye on the Whatley Manor website for details of upcoming events. whatleymanor.com/eat-drink/the-green-room

THE GINS KEEP FLOWING… Partial to a fine quality botanical spirit, we were delighted to find these additions to the flourishing scene being distilled not too far from our doorstep.

THE FISH HOTEL, BROADWAY You’ll be truly immersed in the Cotswolds’ spectacular surrounds when staying in one of the new luxury treehouses or hideaway huts here. Undergoing a notable refresh, this Farncombe Estate hotel is adding to and elevating further its collection of quirky accommodation options. Nestled within a 400 acre private estate, the plush yet fun accommodation is ideal whether you’re wanting a weekend of relaxation or outdoor adventures. The makeover includes a six bedroom farmhouse (sleeping 15), ten new bedrooms added to the coach house, three new treehouses, five new hideaway huts, a screening room for up to 15 people, an eight-obstacle dog agility course and a children’s play zone created from the estate’s recycled wood. thefishhotel.co.uk

HOOK, THE FISH HOTEL, BROADWAY Hook is the stellar new seafood restaurant at The Fish Hotel. With culinary director Martin Burge at the helm, one can expect sophisticated fare, sometimes served with the theatrical flair (hint: order the griddled octopus, chorizo and white bean). This laidback but luxurious celebration of the ocean’s delights offers a menu of the finest, freshest, sustainably sourced fish and shellfish as well as a few timeless classics from the land. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner thefishhotel.co.uk/eat/hook/

PHYSIC GIN, Oxfordshire This unique gin from Oxford’s recently debuted distiller, The Oxford Artisan Distillery (TOAD), celebrates the University of Oxford’s Botanic Garden which was planted during the 1640s for the teaching of herbal medicine. The special spirit consists of 25 botanicals, many grown and foraged in the Garden today, including wormwood, rue and sweet woodruff which deliver a deeply complex flavor and a rich, earthy result, reflecting a time when plants formed the base of all medicine. Boasting total grain-to-glass provenance, ancient grains are sustainably farmed (exclusively for TOAD) in fields nearby Oxford, contributing to the English countryside’s biodiversity and soil health. spiritoftoad.com CHELTENHAM GIN Gloucestershire Timely launched for toasting the commencement of this year’s renowned race week, this small batch release cloudy gin exhibits lime and juniper accents to begin, a finely spiced mid palate and a soft lingering finish.

Containing a unique blend of botanicals including fresh zest from Spanish oranges and limes, Cheltenham Gin is handcrafted with water that filters down to a spring not far from Cheltenham, having travelled from high up in the surrounding hills. cheltenham-gin.co.uk

Above, Professor Simon Hiscock and TOAD’s Tom Nicholson at Oxford Botanic Garden. Below, a floral bottle of Sly Gin.

SLY GIN Herefordshire Tucked away in the heart of the Herefordshire countryside you’ll find the small yet mighty Haven Distillery - easily mistaken for an unassuming cottage surrounded by a pretty garden.

Here a husband and wife team are concocting artisan London Dry-style gins that are quickly garnering attention. They grow their own herbs and botanicals including lemon thyme, bay, apple mint, rosemary, angelica and lemon verbena, and – in true country style – dry these when necessary above the kitchen’s Aga. Their Lemon Verbena Sly Gin is proving particularly popular, while there’s also the Original Sly Gin and the Pink Grapefruit - perfectly refreshing for summer. havendistillery.co.uk

Cheltenham Gin a cloudy gin made in the cotswolds.

LIFESTYLE 27

LE ISU R E

LET’S TAKE THIS OUTSIDE Balmier days and nights call for dining al fresco, an excellent option at these picturesque venues.

1

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TUDOR FARMHOUSE, CLEARWELL On glorious days, the stylish farmhouse hotel pops open the parasols so you can enjoy award-winning head chef Rob Cox’s impressive menu alfresco in the scenic surrounds. Promoting provenance, their suppliers are largely located within a 20 mile radius of the boutique retreat. tudorfarmhousehotel.co.uk

GREY’S BRASSERIE, MALMESBURY Dine al fresco in the ‘Kitchen Garden’ at Whatley Manor’s Grey’s Brasserie, overlooking beds of rosemary, basil, mint, thyme and dill, a selection of lettuces as well as Cavolo Nero, chard, carrots, beetroot and runner beans. The informal restaurant serves fantastic fare with typical dishes including the likes of crispy pig’s head served with garlic aioli, chorizo, cucumber and gem lettuce or the crayfish cocktail with chopped iceberg, Marie Rose, cucumber and avocado. whatleymanor.com

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BAKER & GRAZE, CHELTENHAM One could probably get away with saying that the utterly delicious doughnuts served here have made this eatery famous, well at least on a local scale. And if it’s not those the foodies are flocking for, it may well be the brownies, croissants, ‘cruffins’, and the top-notch coffee. Let yourself be seduced by their freshly baked treats before heading out to the sun-trap courtyard – a cosy spot that’s no doubt going to be buzzing during the warmer months.

For something savoury, the Shaksuka baked eggs with toast, coriander and dukkah, is highly recommended, or the hard-to-beat classic of smashed avocado, streaky bacon and poached eggs. bakerandgraze.com

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KINGS HEAD, CIRENCESTER In the centre of bustling Cirencester lies a green oasis – the rooftop terrace at Kings Head Hotel.

Bathed in the morning sun, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a few beverages and the summer-centric menu of salads, oysters, British charcuterie, vegetable tartlets, barbecue pulled pork and grilled vegetables. kingshead-hotel.co.uk

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THE WHEATSHEAF INN, NORTHLEACH The lush foliage offsets the honey coloured seventeenth century coaching inn fabulously, making this courtyard a stunning setting on a sunny day. Ideal for a pie and a pint or something more fancy from their rustic, modern pub menu, this uber cool venue is no doubt one of Northleach’s finest hangouts. theluckyonion.com

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LYGON ARMS, BROADWAY When seated in the courtyard here, the beautifully preserved, quintessential Cotswold architecture has the effect of transporting you to bygone times. Steeped in British history, this celebrated coaching inn dates back to the 1500s when the hotel served as a connection between Wales, Worcester and London during the Elizabethan era. The small dishes served from the Lygon Wine Bar are perfect for enjoying alfresco with a glass of wine on a midsummer evening. Choose from a tasty range of nibbles and antipasti, varied starters to share, a selection of pasta and pizzetta and seasonally dictated meat and fish dishes. lygonarmshotel.co.uk

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DE KOFFIE POT CAFÉ AND BAR, HEREFORD Situated within Hereford’s Left Bank Village venue, overlooking the River Wye, this café courtyard is a picturesque place to enjoy a menu of locally-sourced dishes with organic, vegan and gluten-free options. The beans in the hop here are courtesy of James Gourmet Coffee and the delicate teas are from Trumpers Teas on Hereford’s Green Street. herefordleftbank.com/de-koffie-pot

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THE WILD RABBIT, KINGHAM Embodying Cotswold chic, the tastefully adorned courtyard creates a cosy ambience you’ll want to settle into until dark. Undoubtedly one of the most fashionable British inns you’ll come across, a crackling fire, handsome wooden furniture, wool blankets and delightful design details set the scene. The rustic charm is paired perfectly with the menu of organic, locally farmed, grown and madefrom-scratch choices. Unsurprisingly you can expect dishes like rabbit, served with offal ragout, black garlic, carrot and hispi cabbage, as well as Devon Creedy Carver duck, and the Chateaubriand cooked over charcoal, using beef from mature herds dry aged for a minimum of 28 days. thewildrabbit.co.uk

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THE WHITEBROOK RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS, MONMOUTH This Michelin star restaurant is nestled in the Wye Valley. Its terrace overlooks the valleys below and is a perfect place for an aperitif or breakfast. The original menu makes use of freshly picked herbs and plants to reflect the surrounding valley on the plate. There’s occasionally the opportunity to join Harrod and expert forager Henry Ashby on one of their hunts for wild ingredients for the kitchen. thewhitebrook.co.uk

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LIFESTYLE 30

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FOOD I NSP I R ATION

A TASTE OF ITALY… GROWN IN HEREFORDSHIRE This trendy Italian ingredient may be gracing local menus for longer, thanks to a Wye Valley producer.

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nly the most fashionable ingredients have numerous names. This in vogue vegetable is no exception. You may know it as barba di frate, agretti, saltwort, land seaweed, monk’s beard, friar’s beard, roscani or agretto. Or (and don’t worry it was new to us too), you may be yet to discover this gastronomic gem.

Top, rows of barba di frate. Above, To keep things simple, we’ll refer to it the vegetable ready for cooking. as barba di frate from here on in. So what exactly is it you may well be wondering?

The unusual vegetable hails from Italy. It introduced the ingredient to foodies back has chive like leaves and a slightly acidic in 1963 and whom Amanda Stradling has taste similar to spinach. It has a high been supplying for the past eight years. concentration of potassium and calcium With Amanda now able to continuously and is rich in vitamins A, B and C. It’s low grow and supply restaurants with the in calories and boasts vegetable from April till detoxifying properties.

October, there should be The sought-after ‘BARBA DI FRATE plenty of time for you to try ingredient has previously SHOT TO FOODIE it for yourself. The Mill been restricted to annual Race pub in Walford, FAME A FEW cameo appearances on top Herefordshire, have long YEARS AGO’ restaurant menus, due to been fond of Wye Valley its short-lived seven to Salads’ fresh produce, and eight week season and the have previously featured logistics of importing it from Italy.

Amanda Stradling’ barba di frate on the However, expect to see more of these menu. Hoping to reintroduce it to the vibrant green fronds with award-winning menu again soon, keep an eye on the Herefordshire vegetable producer, pub’s Facebook page for when it’s arrived.

Amanda Stradling (owner of Wye Valley Salads) growing a succulent supply in the For updates from Amanda Stradling of Wye Valley.

Wye Valley Salads (awarded Producer of Barba di frate shot to foodie fame a few the Year, Observer Food Monthly Awards years ago, appearing on the likes of in 2015), keep an eye on twitter.com/ MasterChef and the menu at Jamie Oliver’s UKBarbadifrate Fifteen restaurant. But other avant-garde For updates on new additions to The Mill chefs have long been fans of the food – Race pub’s menu, keep an eye on including the acclaimed Franco Taruschio facebook.com/millracepub and twitter. (founder of The Walnut Tree) who com/millracepub

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BARBA D I F RAT E AL L’AGL IO Franco Taruschio offers a delicious recipe for cooking the interesting ingredient, should you get your hands on some.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS 100g barba di frate Salt 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 fresh red chilli, seeded and finely chopped 1 lemon cut in wedges METHOD Remove the woody part from the barba di frate, and wash thoroughly to remove all of the soil. Stean or boil the barba di frate for 5 minutes, then season with salt. Heath the extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan and stir in the garlic and chilli. Add the barba di frate and toss well into the oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges to squeeze over.

An alternative, simpler way of preparing barba di frate is to cook it in lightly salted, boiling water for about 8 minutes. Drain, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and dress with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice to taste.

Tip: never cover the pot when cooking barba di frate, or it will go black.

TR AVE L

SINGAPORE STOPOVER

Botanic Gardens

The vibrant island city state is increasingly attracting the creative cognoscenti,with plenty to offer from architecture to fine fare. Travel writer Lucy Grewcock shares her recent visit.

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ne of the world’s most affluent cities, Singapore started life as a British trading post in 1891. Today, its innovative architecture and pioneering approach to development earned it ‘UNESCO Creative City of Design’ status in 2015. But beneath this futuristic skyline, its tranquil green spaces and ethnic enclaves reveal a whole different side to the city.

Last year, I visited on a Gardens by the Bay two-day break with Singapore Airlines. Like many other tourists, I was here on a stopover. En route to a holiday in Laos, I had to change planes in Singapore, so I decided to stick around and experience the metropolis for myself. With 48 hours at my disposal, I set foot in ‘the Lion City’ for the very first time.

INCREDIBLE URBAN ATTRACTIONS Synonymous with 21st century Singapore, the Supertrees Grove was top of my to-see list. Straight out of a sci-fi movie, these manmade ‘trees’ were first unveiled in 2012. Wrapped in flowers and ferns, they stand up to fifty metres above the CBD and waterfront. Built to mimic the qualities of actual trees, they can generate solar power and harvest rainwater.

The supertrees are just one part of Gardens by the Bay – a huge complex of indoor domes and sky-high walkways, which I spent the rest of my morning exploring. With incredible architectural design and horticultural creativity, the gardens’ standout features include a living cloud forest and the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

Gazing over Gardens by the Bay is Marina Bay Sands. This £4 billion resort boasts three 55-storey towers topped with the world’s largest public cantilevered platform – a cruise shipshaped sky park. When it opened in 2010, it transformed the city skyline. Attractions that are open to the public include designer shops, the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum, and a casino with one of the world’s largest Swarovski crystal chandeliers. The resort’s 200-metre-high infinity pool is for hotel guests only.

Bringing myself back down to earth, I spent the afternoon in the Botanic Gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been part of Singapore since 1859. It’s home to the National Orchid Garden and a ‘Learning Forest’ of elevated walkways, as well as peaceful pavilions and manicured lawns that are perfect for picnics. As I strolled around this serene green sanctuary, it

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seemed unfathomable to think that one of the world’s busiest cities lay just outside the garden gates.

East of the Botanic Gardens, I stopped off at Orchard Road.

Singapore’s undisputed shopping mecca, this 2.2km strip was once lined with pepper farms and nutmeg plantations. Today, it brims with shopping malls, restaurants and entertainment venues. Shopaholics Clockwise from left, Supertree Grove; could easily spend a whole day here.

Hawker Centre; Little India rickshaw Just off Orchard Road, the flagship ride; view from 1-Altitude.

Raffles Hotel building dates back to the 1800s. Famous for its colonial-style luxury, it’s the birthplace of Singapore’s national cocktail – the Singapore Sling. Sadly, the hotel and bar were closed for refurbishment when I visited, but keep your eye out for the grand reopening later this year.

For dinner, I met some friends in the highly acclaimed Coriander Leaf restaurant at ‘Chijmes’ – a former catholic convent. We chose from a selection of sharing dishes that were categorised into five flavours – Fresh, Familiar, Spicy, Umami and Sweet. My favourites were the charcoaled lamb chops with harissa (familiar); barbecued ray fin with Here, I discovered my favourite Singapore sambal (spicy); and the Nepalese attraction: the Chinatown Heritage momo dumplings (umami).

Centre. This shophouse museum gives an ‘I JIGGLED AROUND THE After dinner, we took a taxi to Clarke incredible insight into Singapore’s early STREETS IN A RICKSHAW, Quay for a nightcap. A former days. The replica rooms, where entire PASSING FAMOUS LANDMARKS’ families once lived and worked, were no industrial area, this riverside district was developed into a nightspot of bars, bigger than my bathroom back home. And floating restaurants and nightclubs in the museum’s exhibits tell dark secrets the early 1990s. Today, it’s a popular place to party. about the district’s death houses and opium dens.

Another highlight of Chinatown is its excellent ‘hawker AMAZING ETHNIC ENCLAVES centres’ – huge covered markets packed with independent food On my second day in the city, I explored two of the city’s stalls. My favourite was Maxwell Road Hawker Centre, where you Heritage Districts. First up was Little India, Singapore’s most can order everything from Chinese dumplings and Indian roti, to colourful enclave. Here, the brightly painted buildings, bustling Singapore noodles. Nearby, the Chinatown Complex Food Centre markets, and decorated temples stand in stark contrast to the boasts a Michelin-starred hawker stall. shimmering skyscrapers of the CBD. To take it all in, I jiggled I spent my last few hours in Singapore peering down on the around the streets in a rickshaw, passing famous landmarks like supertrees and shophouses from the world’s highest alfresco bar: the ornate Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, and the 24-hour 1-Altitude. Sipping a cocktail on the wraparound terrace, I Mustafa Centre shopping mall. With more time, I would have reflected on just how unique this city-state is. Singapore’s diverse visited the Indian Heritage Centre, which traces the history of districts had challenged my preconceptions, and there was still so Indian and South Asian communities. much more to see, like the artificial beaches on Sentosa Island, and Five minutes away on the MRT (the citywide rail network) is the glamorous Malay quarter of Kampong Glam. As I boarded my Singapore’s largest historic district: Chinatown. Originally home flight to Laos, I made a pact to return. There’s no doubt about it: to the thousands of Chinese immigrants who arrived in the one Singapore stopover simply isn’t enough.

1800s, it was built to echo their lives back home. Today, it still Lucy travelled with Singapore Airlines. They offer a one-night feels full of local Chinese life, with narrow streets, public spaces stopover program with a Singapore attraction pass and twin and original buildings that are a world away from the avantroom at a 3-star hotel from £28pp, or £65pp for a 5-star hotel. garde architecture in the city centre.

For more information, visit singaporeair.com

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WE LLB E I NG

AN ALLNATURAL TREATMENT FOR ALL Many local spas, beauticians and therapists are using nature’s miraculous remedies in marvellous ways. From their highly tempting treatment lists, we’ve carefully selected a natural, tailor-made treatment to suit specific needs.

ONE FOR THE MEN… Men’s Deep Tissue Muscle Energiser Massage at Kings Head Hotel This powerful massage alleviates aching muscles while the use of 100% natural essential oils and balms soothes away tension and calms the mind. kingshead-hotel.co.uk ONE FOR THE WOMEN… Jessica GELeration Luxury Manicure at Simply Stunning Hair and Beauty Your hands always deserve pampering and a pop of pretty colour on your nails is lovely in spring and summer. This prescriptive manicure uses renewing liposomes, an enriching mask and heated mittens to nourish dry hands, with visible results. Jessica’s GELeration gel is then applied – a cruelty-free, vegan friendly, ‘7-free’ brand of polishes void harsh toxins – which lasts up to three weeks without chipping. Choose from over 100 colours and glitters. simplystunninghairandbeauty.co.uk

ONE FOR COUPLES… Mud Room at Dormy House’s House Spa Anyone familiar with the American legal drama, Suits, will recall a certain character’s fondness for ‘mudding’.

Discover the benefits of hot mineral mud

for yourself with a private steam Rasul and warm, soothing mud experience for two people to enjoy together. Paint healing mud combinations onto your body and let them mineralise in the deep heat, for a treatment that will leave your skin cleansed and nourished and your muscles relaxed and restored. dormyhouse.co.uk

colloidal oatmeal, aloe and green tea help improve hydration and soothe redness. A veil of water lily wax is softly laid over your face to protect your skin from harsh environmental factors and restore its barrier. You’ll float out of this Cotswolds spa, your skin calm, clarified, nourished and radiant. cowleymanor.com/spa/treatments

ONE FOR A GLOWING COMPLEXION… Organic Water Lily Radiance Facial at Cowley Manor’s C-Side Spa Specially designed for sensitive skin, natural fruit acids and lactic acid are used to gently remove dead skin skills while organic extracts of water lily,

ONE FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS… Make-up Application at Reds Hair Company Having your makeup professionally applied before a celebration or night out can be a fun start to the festivities. The full application service here enhances

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LEFT, INDULGE IN A SHIRODHARA OIL POURING TREATMENT AT THE SCARLET. ABOVE TOP, FIND BALANCE AT UPPER HOUSE AND SPA. ABOVE, TAKE TIME FOR A MASSAGE AT THE KINGS HEAD HOTEL.

received a Diploma in Pregnancy Shiatsu and Massage from Wellmother, giving her an in-depth understanding of the anatomy through the trimesters. wyetherapies.co.uk your best facial features and complements your look. Jane Iredale’s paraben-free beauty products are used which not only look great on but feel nice to wear and won’t irritate your skin. redshaircompany.co.uk ONE FOR IMPROVING OVERALL BALANCE AND HARMONY… Reflexology at Upper House & Spa Local reflexologist Sharon Freeland uses pressure on reflexes in the feet to release blockages in the body. This ancient therapy is ideal to allow your body to move towards greater balance and harmony and can be effective in healing pain through releasing natural body

endorphins. To enhance the relaxation, stay and enjoy the Finnish sauna and spectacular views this Herefordshire sanctuary offers. upperhouseandspa.co.uk

ONE FOR THE MUM-TO-BE… Mum to be Ultimate Massage at Wye Therapies This top to toe pampering is tailored to meet the needs of the expectant mother.

Included is a facial with a gentle exfoliation and facial massage which is followed by a soothing full body massage using warm, organic coconut oil, with attention paid to areas of tension. Kate, of Wye Therapies,

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ONE FOR RELIEF… Shirodhara Oil Pouring Treatment at The Scarlet A little less local but well worth the drive, The Scarlet in Cornwall offers an Ayurvedic oil pouring experience to relieve headaches, fatigue, nervousness and insomnia, while bringing more vibrancy to your senses and clarity to your mind. Your therapist will help identify areas out of balance and tailor the treatment to help you let go of tension and blocked emotions. The soothing combination of a Mukabhyanga facial massage and continuous oil pouring will leave you feeling calm and nurtured. scarlethotel.co.uk

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J E N NY’S GAR DE N

REAP THE REWARDS The warmer, longer days are a great time for gardening. Elicit your green fingers now, and you’ll soon be enjoying the benefits.

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pril heralds the growing season, so it’s on with your boots and time to get fit in the garden with sunshine and fresh air – much better than the gym. Enlist the help of the family from oldest to the youngest – it’s a great opportunity to bond. Share in the little ones’ amazement when their seeds and plants come to life and when they eat the vegetables that they have grown.

Tackle weeds first. Hoe the flower beds and the vegetable garden that was dug in the winter, but remove perennial weeds such as dandelions, docks and ‘ALL VEGETABLES TASTE BETTER buttercups with a fork, making sure you remove all FRESH FROM THE GARDEN’ of the root. From now to the end of summer, it’s hoe, hoe, hoe.

All vegetables taste better fresh from the garden, but as few of us have large enough plots to be self-sufficient, just grow your favourites. The taste of freshly dug early potatoes is so different to the ones in the shops. Plant the potatoes you chitted in February and March 18 inches apart. When the stems are eight to nine inches tall, draw up the soil from both sides of the row to make a flat topped ridge. Remove weeds as you go. If you have space, plant first earlies in early April and second earlies in the middle of the month. Try Pink Fir Apples (yes, they are potatoes) as they are not readily available in the shops and have a wonderful flavour.

Kidney (runner) beans are one of my favourites. Plant the seeds straight into the ground when the risk of frost has passed in late May. Train them up wigwams or the more traditional row. Pick the beans every other day to keep them producing.

[An asparagus bed needs a couple of years to reach the cutting stage but is well worth the wait].

Look for unusual salad crops when choosing your seeds for exciting salads later. Remember to plant all salad crops little and often to have a regular supply. Baby finger carrots are delicious eaten raw. Flower baskets, tubs and bedding plants can be planted up in May but beware of late frosts.

ABOVE, JENNY’S GRANDSON ALBERT HELPING PREPARE By the end of June you will be fitter and all the family will be THE BEDS FOR PLANTING. TOP, ENJOYING THE RESULT LATER IN THE SEASON. enjoying delicious home-grown vegetables.

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The interior design at Bamford Haybarn Spa offers summery inspiration

I NSPI R E D BY

THE SPIRIT OF SUMMER Lakrids Salt & Caramel Chocolate Coated Liquorice, £8.95 husandhem.co.uk

A vibrant dose of shopping inspiration to welcome the longedfor season in style.

Fjord Skandinavisk Scented Candle, £29 husandhem.co.uk

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dopting a sunnier disposition as the warmer months near, we’ve delightedly rounded up a selection of pieces to optimise the longer days. From mouthwatering barbecue inspiration and picnic essentials to nature-influenced homewares and sophisticated sun loungers, we can almost taste the Pimms!

Fire Food: The Ultimate BBQ Cookbook

by DJ BBQ, £15 hardiegrant.com

Devon Leather Blanket Harness, £75 tannerbates.co.uk

Brass Plant Pot on a Wooden Stand, from £60 theforestandco.com

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Golden Pineapple Necklace, £130 taylorblack.co.uk Black Rattan Garden Bench, £450 theforestandco.com Michael Angove Hydrangea Tray by Jamida, £28.95 husandhem.co.uk

Nautical Lighting, from £165 davidhuntlighting.co.uk

Indigenous Sable Cereal Bowl, £20.40 indigenous.co.uk

Cushion Covers, £18.95 each husandhem.co.uk

Vowchurch Music Handbag, £280 williamshandmade.com

Babington Sun Lounger, £1,595 sohohome.com

Rattan and Metal Side Table, from £75 theforestandco.com

Logan Round Floor Cushion in Rose, £225 sohohome.com

Microblue Jug by Bridget Williams, £85 guildcrafts.org.uk

B EST FOR LAST LEFT, FARMHOUSE ICE CREAM AT ROWLESTONE COURT FARM. RIGHT, MOCHI ICE CREAM AT KIBOUSUSHI.

GET THE SCOOP Summer wouldn’t be complete without the refreshing treats, so we’ve sought out six superior producers.

MILKBAR, CHELTENHAM Your taste buds are certainly in for a treat at this dessert pitstop just off Cheltenham’s The Promenade. Head chef and gelatiere Gianfranco comes from a family of gelaticians with generations of expertise. Milkbar’s gelato is freshly handcrafted each day with organic ingredients including daily delivered Jess’s Ladies Organic Farm Milk. The creative team have been trialling a few vegan variations, as well as experimenting with interesting flavours like avocado – so watch this space for what’s to come. milkbars.co.uk ROWLESTONE COURT FARM, HEREFORD A family favourite for sure, the ice cream is made on the Rowlestone Court Farm using the quality milk the farm’s own cows produce. Dedicated to using only pure, natural ingredients, a well topped cone here is a highly anticipated treat after a walk through the farm’s woods.

Adults may want to indulge in the ‘affagato’ - where scoops of Rowlestone’s luxury vanilla come served with a neat espresso shot poured over. rowlestoneicecream.co.uk

LEFT, SLICED ICE ROLLING THE ICE CREAM. ABOVE, SUPERIOR SCOOPS FROM GREEN & JENKS. BELOW, TASTY GELATO AT MILKBAR.

WINSTONES ICE CREAM, STROUD The Winstone family have been making delicious British ice cream from their prime spot in the heart of the Cotswolds since 1925. As well as their lusciously creamy scoops, they also offer a refreshing selection of sorbets including the ‘champagne and elderflower’ which sings of summer. Winstonesicecream.co.uk

GREEN & JENKS GELATO, MONMOUTH A picture-perfect gelateria where the award-winning gelato, lovingly made with local ingredients, tastes as good as it looks.

This sixth generation family business is celebrating its 130th anniversary, having been founded in 1888 by Frederick Green.

The menu of artisan gelatos, vegan sorbets and frozen yoghurt changes regularly, bar the classic favourites, so expect seasonal specialties and a few unique flavours. greenandjenks.com

SLICED ICE, BATH The fascinating handcrafting of these inspired dessert tubs involves firstly choosing your favourites from the tasty treats on offer, before watching these get mixed into the ice cream which is then thinly sliced in preparation for the rolling ritual. Founders Georgie and Dion were captivated by the street food phenomenon while traveling around South East Asia and decided to bring a slice of that magic home. To taste the new trend yourself, keep an eye out for the team who’ll be popping up at a few food festivals over summer, or book them in for a private event. sliced-ice.com KIBOUSUSHI, CHELTENHAM The masters of sushi here also create mochi ice cream – a creative variation on the much-loved Japanese rice cakes. The mochi is prepared in the traditional round shape, but instead of filling the pudding with paste, the round is filled with green tea, sesame or fruit-flavoured ice cream.

They’re served fresh from the freezer as the glutinous exterior of the mochi softens quickly, creating an interesting contrast to the cold ice cream. kibousushi.com

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