May 2011

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NXNW MAY 2011

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

ON NORTH WEST LONDON’S BOOK SHOPS

FOOD REVIEW: XO IN BELSIZE VILLAGE

TALKING OSCARS WITH COLIN FIRTH

WILD AT

HEART Get set for British summer... head outdoors in style

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NXN W

CONTENTS MAYÊ 2011

N O R T H Ê B Y Ê N O R T H W E S TÊ

The Great Outdoors

REGULARS

FEATURES 8 12 12 16

 FAMILY

EDITOR’S PICK

Three things you MUST SEE this month…

 HEALTH & BEAUTY

LONG LIVE THE KING

 FASHION

An interview with Oscar-winner Colin Firth

30

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

 TRAVEL

The bookshop tour

 INTERIORS

30 WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

 GADGETS

Our fashion shoot hits the great outdoors

 MOTORING

38 THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE 16

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London’s first ever certified organic pub

 FOOD & DRINK

 WHAT’S ON

38

 PROPERTY

29/04/2011 14:04


EDITORÕ SÊ LETTER HelloÊ Everyone!

I

trust this issue finds you all in high spirits following the spot of good weather we’ve been having. This month, we find ourselves full of the joys of spring and hankering after D&G’s entire SS11 collection – all floral prints, floating chiffons and pastoral chic! We’ve seen a lot of this trend on the catwalk, so we hope you enjoy our ‘In Full Bloom’ fashion page (p29). I had a fantastic time on location for our May fashion shoot (p30). We made the most of the fine sunshine and took our lovely models for a walk on the wild side at Camley Street Natural Park. It’s always nice to have your eyes constantly refreshed and discover new and adventurous places in the area, and this particular park - a blink-and-you’llmiss-it nature reserve down by Regent’s Canal – is a wonderful green oasis right in the middle of the King’s Cross redevelopment. This month I had the pleasure of reviewing Islington’s only certified organic pub TheÊ DukeÊ ofÊ Cambridge (p38), which I cannot recommend to you too highly for dinner or Sunday lunch. Our celeb reporter James Luxford had a chance to catch up with recent Oscar-winner Colin Firth for our lead interview (p12). Of course, this issue comes brimming with all the usual great tips on home interiors and the latest fashions - both inspired this month by nature and the great outdoors - as well as the niftiest gadgets and health and beauty secrets. Exciting stuff! Until next month!

Helen Baron helen.baron@zest-media.com

FIND US ON FACEBOOK ON THE COVER: TO GET ALL THE LATEST, JULIE WEARS: ARCHIVE PRINT DEALS, VOUCHERS AND COTTON DRESS, £125, REVIEWS – FIND US ON FB – LAURA ASHLEY ‘‘NxNW MAGAZINE’ LAURAASHLEY.COM

NXNW MAY 11 EDS LETTER.indd 4

NXNW N O R T H Ê B Y Ê N O R T H W E S TÊ

HAMPSTEAD, HIGHGATE, ST. JOHNS WOOD, HIGHGATE, PRIMROSE HILL, CAMDEN, CROUCH END, MUSWELL HILL AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

Editor Editorial Assistants

Helen Baron Gemma Billington Cate Sewell Anastasia Aboim

Shoot Coordinator

Frances Park

Beauty Editor

Helen Rance

Feature Writers

Eloise Baumann Andrew Hodgson

Head of Design

Ray Searle

Senior Designer

Jim Donald

Production Assistant Photographers

Lauren Giles Dan Williams Colin Streater

Lifestyle Manager Property Manager Senior Account Executive Account Executive Finance Director

Leah Day Tara Gentry David Allard Rochelle Streater Alexandra Hvid

Marketing Manager

Jessica Batten

Publishing Director

Sherif Shaltout

For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com

Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com. You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 6 & 12 months, £15 and £25 respectively (purely to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

Zest Media London Studio 202, Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media London Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media London Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

www.nxnwmagazine.com

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WHAT’S ON

THE LONDON BLITZ 70TH ANNIVERSARY RUNNING UNTIL 31ST MAY

Commissioned by the Mayor of London and produced in association with the London Transport Museum the ‘London Blitz - 70th Anniversary Exhibition’ is dedicated to the men and women of the emergency, volunteer, transport and specialist services who kept London going during the darkest days of the war. The exhibition includes rare photographs and graphics from the collections of the London Transport Museum, Museum of London, Metropolitan Police Historical Collection, London Fire Brigade Museum, London Ambulance Service, Barts and the London NHS and Royal Pioneer Corps Association and is located in the Museum’s Bomber Hall. RAF Museum, Grahame Park Way, Kingsbury, NW9 5LL, rafmuseum.org.uk, 020 8205 2266

EDITOR’S PICK

Three of the best local things to do this month

THE MAN WITH THE FLOWER IN HIS MOUTH RUNNING FRI 27 - SUN 29 MAY

An all-night café, just gone midnight. A traveller waits peacefully for her morning train. A man appears. The man with the flower in his mouth - a clown, a mad-man, a philosopher - strikes up a conversation, and turns her world upside down. In the intimate setting of Dean & Hudson on the Archway Road, Metta Theatre bring you a playful new adaptation of Pirandello’s classic short play. A foray into the darkness [and light] of a man whose salvation can only be found in the power of the imagination... Jacksons Lane, 269a Archway Road, London N6 5AA, 020 8341 4421 jacksonslane.org.uk

DIRT EXHIBITION RUNNING UNTIL 31ST AUGUST

2011 sees the wonderful Wellcome Collection getting all mucky, with a major exhibition exploring the history, cultural significance and scientific importance of, as the title suggests, dirt. With art on show alongside documentary photography, scientific artefacts next to literature, film and all manner of other bits and bobs, Dirt continues Wellcome’s distinctive (and consistently brilliant) approach to curating challenging but accessible exhibitions. Look out in particular for Susan Collis’ bejewelled broom and a stack of bricks with hidden stories, by Serena Korda. Wellcome Collection, 183 Euston Road, London NW1 2BE, wellcomecollection.org 020 7611 2222 8

NXNW MAY 11 Editor's Pick.indd 8

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VILLAGE NEWS

BUNTING: THE CONTEMPORARY HOME (TCH.NET)

Village COMMUNITY BOARD Ê MUSEUMSÊ ATÊ Ê NIGHTÊ 13 – 15 MAY

Ê CABBAGESÊ AND Ê FROCKSÊ SPRINGÊ FAIRÊ

The Museums At Night programme sees hundreds of museums, galleries and heritage sights in the UK unlock their doors for unique evening events. An exciting opportunity to see your favourite place to visit after hours! Locally, check out the RAF Museum for a special evening on May 14, or step back in time to see the restored Markfield Victorian Beam Engine running under steam power, just as it did in 1888! For info and listings see culture24.org.uk

14 MAY

PRIMROSE HILL PRIMARY SCHOOL Enjoy this one day fair for all the family. Fashion, food, entertainment and a jewellery making workshop. Tea & Crafting at 1PM. £7 for taking part, free for fi rst 15 children! 12 – 5 Primrose Hill Primary School, Princess Road, NW1 8JL cabbagesandfrocks.co.uk READER OFFER

Ê CLAYÊ FORÊ Ê JUNIORÊ Ê INFANTSÊ Ê COURSEÊ CREDIT: CLAY FOR INFANTS (2010), PHOTOGRAPHER: PETER DODDS, © CAMDEN ARTS CENTRE

31 MAY – 3 JUNE

Matt Sherratt teaches this class – split into age groups 5-7 and 8-11 – during the school holidays in Camden Arts Centre’s studio space. This particular course lets children experiment with clay by using traditional techniques including hand building, casting and moulding. £140 (£70 concessions) Camden Arts Centre, Arkwright Road London NW3 6DG. For all details see camdenartscentre.org

Ê MINTÊ POLOÊ INÊ THEÊ PARKÊ From 3rd-5th June 2011, Polo players from all over the world will battle each other at MINT Polo in the Park in Fulham. Spend a quintessential british summers day at Hurlingham Park, and discover the new additions for 2011: The Mahiki Bar, The Punch Bowl Pub, The Harrods Food Court, an even bigger Veuve Clicquot Champagne Garden, a newly designed Kids Zone and ... even more Polo! Winner of the 2010 ‘London Sport Attraction of the Year’ at The London Lifestyle Awards, MINT Polo in The Park is the leading outdoor polo and lifestyle event in Central London. Hospitality packages are available but selling fast. Benefit from our very special offer on general and grandstand tickets (up to £5 off on adult tickets and £10 off family tickets. Conditions apply). Simply quote FRIENDSOFMINTPOLO when booking with Ticketmaster on www.ticketmaster.co.uk/ polointhepark or 0844 847 2282 T&C: Only valid until 15th May 2011, on new bookings only. www.mintpolointhepark.com

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Long Live The

King The making of a ‘Best Actor’: how ex-North London resident, Colin Firth, came to be the toast of Tinsel Town with ‘The King’s Speech’ Interview By James Luxford

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INTERVIEW

S

taff at Islington’s Pleasance Theatre are delighted with the Oscars success of The King’s Speech. Back in 2007, a reading of the play was performed at the venue in front of the author Meredith Hooper. So impressed was she that she telephoned her son (the television and film director Tom Hooper) and told him that she had found his next project… the rest is cinematic history. Talking of which, a certain ex-Barnesbury resident is currently one of the most talked-about actors working in Hollywood (or anywhere), has directors knocking down his door and recently took home an Oscar for his role in that very film. After his appearance as King George VI in The King’s Speech, Colin Firth appears to be on top of the world - but how did the man rise to such prominence after so many years pigeonholed by rom-com? For much of the last decade, Colin Firth was an actor held back by typecast. The quintessential Englishman, the epitome of upper-class reserve, and other variations on his ‘Mr. Darcy’ role (including, of course, one directly referencing the character in the two Bridget Jones films). That is until 2009, when the actor took a role unlike the ones before. He played a gay college professor mourning the loss of his lover in 1960’s set drama A Single Man. Directed by top fashion designer (the man in charge of the Mad Men wardrobe), Tom Ford, the film was a revelation and considered

by many to be the performance of Firth’s career. “A Single Man didn’t feel like a departure, really” he recalls. “It was a chance to carry the movie and be given some good material to work with. It’s not often

last trip Hollywood’s biggest bash, however, as a year later he would be back with a role that became the talk of 2011’s award season. Hot on the success of A Single Man, Firth’s next project was to be even bigger, albeit with a return to the aristocratic form that made his name. He was cast in the lead role as King George VI in The King’s Speech, costarring Oscar winner Geoffrey Rush and directed by Tom Hooper, whose historical figures on screen also include Elizabeth I (played by Helen Mirren in The Queen). The story begins before his ascension, when the then-Prince Albert (he would change his name to George after his coronation) seeks out an unorthodox speech therapist (Rush) to help him with his debilitating stammer. Tensions flare as Albert begins to learn of what is at stake, but the friendship of the two men as well as the love of his wife (played by Helena Bonham Carter) hold firm. Firth is very quick to point out that this isn’t a film about disability, more about overcoming the obstacles in one’s life and finding your voice. “I think good story telling is never about trying to provide answers” he explains. “It’s about being honest, it’s about issues and problems and how we seek to eradicate them.” The film was a huge hit, instantly spawning award rumours, the highest praise reserved for Firth’s mesmerising performance as the future Monarch. Speaking before the awards ceremony, Firth shyly

“I THINK GOOD STORY TELLING IS NEVER ABOUT TRYING TO PROVIDE ANSWERS. IT’S ABOUT BEING HONEST, IT’S ABOUT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS AND HOW WE SEEK TO ERADICATE THEM.”

that you get given something that really feels like it has that much substance.” The Academy agreed, and gave Firth his first Oscar nomination in last year’s Academy Awards, although he eventually lost out to Jeff Bridges. That was not to be his

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INTERVIEW

remarks “I don’t most British actors know what’s going could really say they to happen (at the didn’t have some Oscars). The fact that sort of love for doing people are talking is a theatre.” However, sign of how positively his last experience they’ve responded treading the boards to it, which is was somewhat incredibly gratifying. treacherous. “I got This certainly wasn’t appalling stage fright a walk in the park last time I went by any means. But on stage actually” people don’t owe he recalls with a you gratitude just grimace. “I had to because you’ve open with a twotried very hard. On page monologue… this occasion, it’s I kept thinking ‘just wonderful to see the take a deep breath’ fact that audiences but I couldn’t do it. care as much about Then I was told I something (as we had to go straight on do) and so far we’ve stage and, weirdly, been getting a lot I remembered the of awards.” The film lines and got on with went on to win a lot it. It was like a car more at the 2011 crash.” Academy Awards As one would ceremony, picking imagine, the next up four Oscars film any Oscar including a Best winner takes on is Actor award for the focus of much Firth. Recognition, attention, and so “I GOT APPALLING STAGE FRIGHT Firth has gone for it appears, has finally come for the actor a British classic. He LAST TIME I WENT ON STAGE held so fondly in film is currently filming lovers’ affections. ACTUALLY. I HAD TO OPEN WITH with an all-star He currently lives cast including Gary A TWO-PAGE MONOLOGUE… in both London and Oldman and Inception Italy with Italian actor Tom Hardy in I KEPT THINKING ‘JUST TAKE A filmmaker Livia the remake of the DEEP BREATH’ BUT I COULDN’T Giuggioli, his wife book Tinker,Tailor, of nearly 14 years. Soldier, Spy, which DO IT. THEN I WAS TOLD I HAD The couple have two was also a famous children, in addition TV series. “I’m not TO GO STRAIGHT ON STAGE to one son Firth sure they’ve allowed AND, WEIRDLY, I REMEMBERED has from a previous me to discuss that relationship, and he jokes, “but THE LINES AND GOT ON WITH IT. one” the actor professes a I’m very excited, it’s IT WAS LIKE A CAR CRASH.” love for his family’s a wonderful story.” nomadic lifestyle. He will also appear “We get to live different lives does his wife enjoy being married in the film Main Street, co-starring somewhat” says Firth, who also to a big screen heartthrob? “Oh not Orlando Bloom. “I should rather like previously lived in Barnsbury. at all, she sees what I look like in to have a break at some point” he “We enjoy our life in Londonthe morning” he laughs. Indeed, the laughs when asked if he has any plans the theatres, the busy nature of stage seems to be a big reason the to slow down, “but I keep getting everything, and then in Italy we can capital is a draw for the 50-yearoffered these wonderful parts, you enjoy the culture and the way of life old both professionally as well as don’t want to turn them down in over there. It’s quite lovely.” And personally. “I love it, I don’t think case people forget about you!”.  14

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CallingÊ AllÊ Bookworms...Ê

AREA SPOTLIGHT WORDS:Ê ANDREWÊ HODGSON

TakeÊ aÊ tourÊ ofÊ northÊ westÊ LondonÕ sÊ legendaryÊ bookÊ shopsÊ andÊ literaryÊ hotspots

W

hether you take Hampstead as its former self - a village surrounded by heath, north of London - or in its current incarnation as a leafy suburb close to the city, it retains a place at the heart of the country’s literary landscape. You can hardly take a step without being reminded of the presence of literary greats through the ages, from Keats and T.E. Lawrence (better known as Lawrence of Arabia) to George Orwell and current luminaries such as Nobel laureate Doris Lessing. Hampstead has always inspired and nurtured creativity, and a stroll through her streets is proof that - even in an age of e-readers and chain stores - more romantic notions of literature still hold sway here. Independent book shops dot the roads and alleyways, and a pleasant few hours can be spent touring the best of them while taking in some of the area’s most famous literary landmarks en route. Turn left out of Hampstead tube station and a minute’s walk will find you at

the Keith Fawkes book shop. Based at 1-3 Flask Walk, it’s wonderfully snug and filled floor to ceiling with rare and second hand books the subjects of which range from Titian to Nietzsche. The shop’s main strength, however, has to be its friendly Hampstonian owners, who will happily search among an assortment of antique furniture, heaving shelves and boxes of old books to locate whatever you’re after. Back out to the main street and a short walk away down Rosslyn Hill a left on Downshire Hill reveals

legendary poet John Keats’ former home, now a public library and museum. Situated on Keats Grove, the house is comprised of two elegant white mansion buildings with tall windows, ringed by gardens and flower beds. It is here that Keats wrote Ode to a Nightingale and courted his neighbour Fanny Brawne (as depicted in the film Bright Star), and although you have to pay to enter the house nowadays, you can walk the grounds and peer inside the converted library-wing for free. Follow Downshire Hill further, turn right onto South End Road and then left onto Parliament Hill, and you’ll find George Orwell’s former home at

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SPOTLIGHT

number 77. A tall and slightly oppressive building on a steep incline, the writer lived on the top floor, entertaining friends (such as Old Etonian and fellow author Cyril Connolly) and, through his landlady, meeting his first wife and the love of his life, Eileen O’Shaughnessy. It is here that Orwell recuperated from his long solitary years in Burma - as retold so grippingly in his 1934 novel Burmese Days. Returning to South End Road, take a left and then a right onto Pond Street. At the end of the road, take a left and walk down Haverstock Hill towards Belsize Park underground station. At number 193 Haverstock Hill you’ll find Daunt Books. Part of a small independent chain regularly spotted in ‘Britain’s Most Loved Book Shop’ lists, this particular branch of Daunt was established in the mid-1980’s and carries a huge range of books on walls lined with dark wooden shelves. The softly spoken, welcoming staff are never too busy to field an enquiry, and it’s rare that a chance visit doesn’t end with a few exciting new discoveries. Leaving Daunt (if you must!), you can head down Haverstock Hill to find yourself outside an impressive pub, the Sir Richard Steele, known locally as ‘The Steele’s’. Named for a particularly fervent 19th century political essayist who (according to varying accounts)

lived either across the road or actually within the building itself, the inside of the pub is a pastiche of vintage kitsch below a hand-painted ceiling depicting a Romanesque heaven. Gods and goddesses cavort with cherubs in a sky of serene blue; the pub, meanwhile, is warmed by open fi res and serves great Thai food - an ideal option for a midday munch. When you’re fed and watered, it’s time to set off again. Twenty yards further down the hill on the left you’ll fi nd one of the best views in London. Outside The Hill pub, the road runs on to Camden and the fringes of Hampstead. The dome of St. Paul’s ascends nobly from among the distant City’s offices and banks. Further down towards the bottom of the hill, you’re met with a choice: enjoy the diverse offerings of Camden or, if you prefer, take a right by Chalk Farm underground station and wander over to Primrose Hill. On the high street here you will fi nd Primrose Hill Books - next door to the former home of that great frock-coated revolutionary and sometime colleague of Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels. Just around the corner is poet Sylvia Plath’s former dwelling. The shop, meanwhile, stocks everything from current bestsellers to second hand books of special interest.

Plath’s house is in Chalcot Square: head over that way and you will fi nd a series of beautiful pastel-painted Edwardian houses. Close by is L’Absinthe, a French restaurant, and right next door is the former home of poet and visionary William Butler Yeats - the same house, in fact, once occupied by Plath, and where the poet met her tragic end. L’Absinthe offers both a set lunch and an a la carte menu, both of which are designed to satiate the most demanding of gourmets. Options range from starters of marinated herring and potato with shallot dressing to duck confit and braised savoy cabbage with jus gras - and for the less adventurous, there’s always the classic Steak Frites. L’Absinthe proves another perfect pit-stop and an appropriately romantic fi nale for our little literary escapade - as too does the Princess of Wales, a secluded and intimate pub on Chalcot Road. The pub serves a wide range of beers and spirits and has a distinctly literary air, thanks in no small part to the candlelit walls lined with wellstocked bookshelves. All in all, a fitting place to look through the day’s assorted purchases and reflect on literary talents of days gone by. In north London - and Hampstead especially - art and artists are all around us. You just have to know where to look. ■ 17

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TRAVEL LOG:

BIG COUNTRY Intrepid Travel’s Robin Wild travelled to Western Australia and discovered that big is definitely beautiful.

“W

estern Australia is a big place, and I mean really big. It’s Australia’s largest state, occupying the entire western third of the country and in it, you could fit around 58 Englands. I have friends from WA who have stations (farms) which are the size of Switzerland, where they have light aeroplanes to herd cattle. For a girl from Hackney this kind of ‘big’ is almost impossible to imagine. You find out quickly that things run differently out in WA. In fact the locals will tell you that WA actually stands for “Wait Awhile”. This is a place where you can swim out from the shore to Ningaloo Reef and snorkel with sharks and turtles. It’s a place where wild dolphins swim up to 8/4/08 the shallow waters of Monkey Mia to be fed by hand. In WA you can explore the bizarre black and orange striped domes of a mountain range called the Bungle Bungles (pictured right)- such a happy wonderful word that they had to use it twice! You can sit around a camp fire and talk late into the night, drinking local wine bought from one of the many vineyards down on the Margaret River and then fall asleep in a Swag under a canopy of stars. There is nothing quite like being woken up by the sun rising over the horizon, feeling the earth warming and waking up underneath you, and knowing that this is the real Australia.”

6:04:46 pm

Robin travelled on Intrepid’s 11-day West Coast Safari from Broome to Perth, costing £1185 (excluding international flights.) Throughout May, Intrepid Islington are offering a cash bonus of up to £150 when you book an Intrepid Australia or New Zealand trip departing before the end of the year. To find out more, drop into the Intrepid Travel store, 76 Upper St (opposite the Green), call 020 7354 6169 or visit www.intrepidtravel.com/cashbonus

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Proionic action: The ions, micro particles that have vital functions in the metabolism of cells, are mobilised and rebalanced. Microcirculation: The thermal action increases capillary circulation and oxygenates the tissues draining and eliminating impurities. Hyperthermia: Increases the elasticity, reduces fibrosis and improves the cell metabolism. Effects of The Indiba Deep Beauty Method: Relaxing and painless State of the art monopolar radio frequency Revitalizes the skin Smooths and reduces cellulite Lifts and smooths the facial lines and wrinkles Lifts moobs/boobs Slimmer and more contoured legs, bums, tums and arms

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REEBOK EASY TONE SHORT SLEEVE T-SHIRT MAGENTA The stylish tee – made of moisture-wicking PlayDry fabric - has toning bands that create resistance to key upper body muscles, so you get a more intense workout. £41 johnlewis.com

PASHLEY SONNET BICYCLE Go back to the Golden Age of pedaling with this beautiful bicycle in claret red and cream by Stratford-Upon-Avon based Pashley. This traditional upright ladies bike is a 5 speed model with lighting, immobiliser lock and rear rack. £625 pashley.co.uk Also available at Bobbin Bicycles 297 St John Street EC1V 4LD bobbinbicycles.co.uk WE

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HEALTH &BEAUTY SIGG WATER BOTTLES Swiss made SIGG bottles - said to be the World’s toughest water bottles – are completely sustainable and far more ecological than single use plastic bottles. They also happen to come in a range of fantastic designs too! Peaceful Journey/Lotus Blossom/ Taj Mahal Pink all 0.6l £16.50 sigg.com

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NORDIC TRACK T9.1 FOLDING TREADMILL WITH IFIT LIVE As well as including some impressive built-in features, such as iPod connectivity, Cardio Grip EKG technology and AirLight Lift Assist Shock; the Nordic Track T9.1 also features the iFit Live Module so you can wirelessly enjoy iFit Live Fitness Applications. £999 johnlewis.com

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MANDUKA EKO LITE MAT Maduka’s mats are worldrenowned as being the highest quality rubber yoga mats on the market. The eKO lite mat is 100% natural and just 1.5kg. £49 manduka.com

TOP TIP: EAT MORE FISH. IT IS THE OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIS IN FISH OILS THAT ARE THOUGHT TO MAKE THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET MORE HEALTHY AND PROTECT AGAINST HEART DISEASE AND RAISED CHOLESTEROL LEVELS. YOU SHOULD HAVE 1.5G OF THESE FATTY ACIDS A WEEK - TWO OR THREE SERVINGS OF FISH 21 29/04/2011 14:49


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www.colmancoyle.com 28/04/2011 10:06

28/04/2011 23:14


HEALTH &BEAUTY

WHAT’S HOT GOING UP

Deamau5 Live outdoor show; the superstar DJ is joined by Mark Ronson, Calvin Harris, Zane Lowe, Nero, Skrillex, DJ Hype , Modestep, DJ Fresh, Jaguar Skills and Netsky in Victoria Park this June, with more acts to be announced over the coming weeks. Burberry A British legend that keeps getting better. Witness this season’s ‘return of the mac’. Check out artofthetrench.com for some raincoat inspiration. Britney Spears’ ‘Till the World Ends’ The queen of outrageous red one-pieces and extensions is leather-clad once more, proving she can still tear it up. Complete with sweaty, breathless backing dancers, this is 2011’s answer to Spears’ past hit I’m a Slave 4 U. And it features less product placement than her comeback video.

GOING DOWN

The Olympics The registration period for tickets ended just last month. As if cutting down ancient trees and fencing off much of Regent’s Canal was not enough, we have a summer of Victoria Park scaffolding to look forward to... and a heap of new congestion on the Central Line! Brace yourselves... Cadbury’s ‘Race’ bars Too much wafer and not enough CHOCOLATE! Obviously. British Airways This heritage brand needs to get its act together. Sitting under a leaking air conditioner is NOT ideal - especially on a transatlantic flight. The steward’s only comment? “Poor you, did you get wet?”

WHAT’S NOT

FEET FIRST

Mr Rohit Madhav from The London Orthopaedic Clinic gives his expert advice

I have just bought some gorgeous strappy sandals for the summer – the only things stopping me from wearing them are my unsightly bunions. Apart from looking horrible they’re quite painful and always cause blisters. Is there anything I can do before the summer to get rid of them? Unfortunately there is no quick remedy for bunions. The pain can be helped with the use of anti-inflammatory ointments; they are usually less painful in the summer months when people wear open footwear. It is advisable to get a professional opinion from an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery as there are several causes for bunions and they can require professional treatment. I’ve just booked a holiday and I’m really looking forward to a week of sightseeing but I’ve been suffering from a pain in the balls of my feet when walking. I’m really worried it’s going to ruin my week away. What is causing the pain and is there a way to treat it? Pain in the balls of the feet or metatarsalgia can occur for many reasons. Provided the foot shape and joints are reasonably well aligned the usual cause is sudden overactivity in unsupportive or poor footwear. I would recommend a programme of stretching exercises for the hamstring calf muscles and arch muscles along with supportive footwear. If shoes need to be open then cushioned, firm soles with reasonable straps to hold the foot in are advisable; some good brands are FitFlops and Birkenstocks. If closed footwear is appropriate then good quality trainers or formal walking shoes will help avoid unnecessary pain. One of my toes is really red and painful. I think I’ve got an ingrowing toenail but I don’t know what to do and I’m worried it will get infected. What is the best treatment for this? I want to be able to play with my children during the summer holidays so I don’t want to be in pain or still recovering from surgery. Painful red toes are best treated by a professional. It would be advisable to go and see a chiropodist in the first instance to see if there is a simple nail problem which can be remedied without resorting to surgery and allowing the pain and redness to settle. Unfortunately, sometimes you do have to resort to surgery but it’s reasonably minor and recovery is quick - normally within 7-10 days. Mr Madhav is a skilled consultant orthopaedic surgeon from The London Orthopaedic Clinic. The clinic is now working in new facilities in Golders Green. For more information call 020 7186 1000 or visit www.londonorthopaedic.com 23

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Now practising in the Golders Green area • Hip and Knee Unit • Spine and Pain Unit • Shoulder and Elbow Unit • Hand and Wrist Unit • Foot and Ankle Unit Roman House, 296 Golders Green Road, London NW11 9PY t: 020 7186 1000 f: 020 7084 6999 e:info@londonorthopaedic.com

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HAMPSTEAD HYPNO EDIT Half Page.indd 26

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HEALTH &BEAUTY

PARLEZ-MOI D’AMOUR THE NEWEST FRAGRANCE FROM JOHN GALLIANO. £39 FOR 50ML, JOHNGALLIANOPARFUMS.COM, FOR STOCKISTS 0845 769 7072.

RICCI RICCI DANCING RIBBON THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE HOUSE OF NINA RICCI; FULL OF DELICIOUS NOTES OF RASPBERRY AND GINGER. £41.50 FOR 50ML, AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE.

EMILIO PUCCI - VIVARA VARIAZIONI VERDE 072 A FRESH SUMMER SCENT - TRULY INSPIRED BY THE SUN, SAND AND WATER OF THE MEDITERRANEAN ISLAND OF VARIAZIONI! £40 FOR 50ML, HARRODS.COM

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BULGARI - MON JASMIN NOIR A CONTEMPORARY FLANKER TO JASMIN NOIR. £55 FOR 50ML, EXCLUSIVE TO DEBENHAMS.COM UNTIL MAY 16 - AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE ONWARDS.

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MARC JACOBS - DAISY EAU SO FRESH SPRING IS ONLY A SPRITZ AWAY WITH DAISY EAU SO FRESH! £47.50 FOR 75ML, THEPERFUMESHOP.COM

27

CA MAY 11 Beauty Product.indd 27

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shop online at

www.joythestore.com JOY Islington - Upper Street

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02/03/2011 09:43 14:32 12/04/2011


D&G LILAC FLOWER PRINT SHORTS £172 STYLEBOP.COM

FASHION CROQUET LEATHER & FLORAL CROSS BODY BAG £22 RUNWAYROUTE.COM

‘CAN’T TOUCH THIS’ SHOES £79.99 IRREGULARCHOICE.COM

LOUCHE VINTAGE FLORAL PLAYSUIT £39 JOYTHESTORE.COM

Dolce & Gabbana PAUL & JOE OSMOSE FLORAL-PRINT SILKCHIFFON GOWN £1,015 STYLEBOP.COM

INÊ FULLÊ

BLOOM

SILVER & GOLD VERMEIL BLOSSOM STUDS £180 SHAUNLEANE.COM

OSCAR DE LE RENTA EMBROIDERED LINEN & SILK PINAFORE DRESS £3,010 BROWNSFASHION.COM

AprilÊ showersÊ bringÊ forthÊ MayÊ flowers, so embrace fashion’s floral fixation this Spring

MARNI SILK BLEND TOP WITH FLORAL PRINT £385 BROWNSFASHION.COM D&G PEONY PRINT SILK CHIFFON BLOUSE, £210 MATCHESFASHION.COM

ERDEM SALOME DREAM SILK DUCHESS COAT £1,540 MATCHESFASHION.COM

VERSAILLES JACQUARD DRAPE FRONT DRESS £198 JIGSAW-ONLINE.COM

FROM THE BSITE FINDS PATTERN EVERYWHERE WE NG PIRI INS THIS K: O.U Y.C NIT WEBSITE OF THE MONTH: PATTER LY UNIQUE TIGHTS GE ARCHIVE OR PICK UP A PAIR OF TRU IMA THE GH OU THR OLL SCR . ENT IFIC 29 MUNDANE TO THE MAGN CA MAY 11 Fashion IN BLOOM.indd 29

28/04/2011 23:45


Julie wears: Portofino Silk Maxi Dress, £169, Jigsaw, 66 Cross Street, N1 2TZ jigsaw-online.com Eve wears: Louche Merle Vintage Floral Playsuit £39, Joy, 21-22 Upper Street, N1 0PQ, joythestore.com Picnic Hamper, £75, joules.com

CA MAY 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 30

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WHERETHINGSTHEAREWILD Photography:ÊÊ Dan Williams Hair/Make-up:ÊÊ Helen Rance Stylist:ÊÊ Frances Park

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Eve wears: Jacinta Pleated Shirt Dress, £59, Red Bow Belt, £12 both Joy

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Julie wears: Louche Quant Jacquard Shift Dress, £45, Joy ‘Pascale’ Heel, £175, by Toast 133 Upper Street, N1 1QP Eve wears: Louche Yellow Paisley Dress, £45, Joy ‘Pandora’ Black Sandals, £85, Toast

CA MAY 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 33

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Julie wears: Louche Reanna Ikat Print Playsuit, £45, Joy Panama Hat, £35, Toast Shoes as before

CA MAY 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 34

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Eve Wears: Fireprint Maxi Dress, £159, Jigsaw Julie wears: Tribal Print Maxi Dress, £159, Jigsaw Denim Waistcoat, £55, Joy Alll make up supplied by: GUERLAIN L’OCCITANE LAURA MERCIER LOCATION: CAMLEY STREET NATURAL PARK N1C --------------------

CREDITS: PHOTOGRAPHY: Dan Williams (danwilliams40@me.com) HAIR/MAKE-UP: Helen Rance (helenrance@yahoo.com) STYLIST: Frances Park MODELS: Julie Blanc & Eve Clancy at First Model Management

CA MAY 11 Fashion Shoot.indd 35

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Set in the heart of North London, a few stops away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kassaba is everything you could want. An opulent Restaurant, Bar, Lounge and Shisha Garden, along with a dedicated royal VIP suite – all in one location. Set across two floors, this awe inspiring venue is a perpetual Oasis of Persian, Ottoman, Eastern and Mediterranean inspired luxury. Kassaba has taken inspiration from the very first cultural fusions brought about by the legendary Conqueror: Alexander The Great, 356BC, creating an opulent ambience draped in history and infused with a modern and contemporary edge.

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Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê OnÊ tOÊ aÊ Ê GOOdÊ thinGÊ The Duke of CambriDge

HelenÊ Baron samples the flavours of London’s first ever ‘officially organic’ pub...

T

he Duke of Cambridge scored major brownie points with me before I’d even crossed the threshold (though it’s only fair to say I didn’t try the brownies; I’m sure they’d have fared extremely well). The reason for such advance admiration? Well, The Duke of Cambridge is not quite your average pub. In fact, this relative newcomer to the Islington drinking-anddining scene is the first and only certifiably organic pub in London. An astonishing fact, when you consider the sheer amount of air-time given to buzzwords like ‘organic’ these days; and – as someone interested in environmental issues and a supporter of various eco initiatives – enough to get me very excited indeed. The pub’s modus operandi is to serve only sustainable, seasonal, locally produced food, and to uphold a ‘sustainable fishing’ policy. The menu focuses on predominantly British fare and incorporates Mediterranean influences – but that doesn’t mean your

greens come complete with their own colossal carbon footprint: The Duke of Cambridge sources 80% of all its fresh ingredients from the home counties. Moreover, all their ingredients are certified organic by the Soil Association – and their provenance is traceable as a result. Menus change twice daily, according to what’s at peak freshness and therefore most flavoursome, and all the food is made on-site, including breads, pickles and ice-creams. But here’s where they’re onto a real winner in my opinion: there are always two meat, two fish and two vegetarian main courses on the menu. Traditional restaurateurs take heed: this is the way of the future, so don’t remain stuck in the past! As a long-term vegetarian who has recently started eating fish again – largely due to the sheer lack of variety in vegetarian cooking when out and about – I’m thrilled to see this ‘equal opportunities’ attitude to menu design. Never again need I pay for a full Sunday

roast while receiving just a parched plate of veg and (if I’m lucky) a Yorkshire pudding; and I don’t have to accept the seemingly obligatory (bland) mushroom risotto while my carnivorous companions take their pick from dozens of possible platters. Instead I can hop down to The Duke of Cambridge and choose something carefully tailored to my tastes. Just because I’m a pescatarian, doesn’t mean I’m not a dedicated foodie, and with the arrival of The Duke of Cambridge, I’m beginning to hope my tomato pasta days are over! The ConCepT Geetie Singh founded Sloeberry Trading in order to open and run The Duke of Cambridge. Having already gained extensive experience in the restaurant trade and wanting to do something about the appalling amount of wastefulness she’d witnessed, Geetie was determined to put her interest in social justice and her passion for nature to good use. Starting an environmentally friendly business

38

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FOOD &DRINK

seemed a great way to do so, and The Duke of Cambridge was the perfect way to support organic farming, sustainable living and healthy eating – but it was equally important to Geetie that her pub deliver top quality food to diners. As a result, the chefs at the pub (bless ‘em) buy goods direct from small independent farms. They also ensure that no food is wasted and source as much Fair Trade produce as possible – tea, sugar, coffee and chocolate comes from small producers who are paid a fair and decent premium for their crops. The chefs also adhere to a strict fish-buying policy (Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall would be proud) and try to avoid packaged, processed foods – for this reason, you won’t see the usual crisps behind the bar, though you can happily munch your way through delicious olives and nuts. Geetie, who had lived in a commune in the Midlands, says the idea for The Duke of Cambridge came about because she had grown “deeply disillusioned with the lack of sustainability in restaurants”. She clearly doesn’t do things by halves, refusing to be branded as “just an environmentalist” or “just a restaurateur”: she is both in equal measure, and certainly her employment of radical methods (as far as the restaurant business is concerned) proves her to be a shining example of both ethical activist and savvy businesswoman. One visit to The Duke of Cambridge makes it plain: the pub really goes that extra mile, proudly recycling and reusing building materials, furniture and kitchen waste while keeping a vigilant eye on energy use. In addition, it fosters links with local residents, training cooks at nearby schools as well as staff for a forthcoming community kitchen (Jamie Oliver would be proud – or jealous!) And as if all that was not enough, Geetie insists on advocating certification

ONE VISIT TO THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE MAKES IT PLAIN: THE PUB REALLY GOES THAT EXTRA MILE, PROUDLY RECYCLING AND REUSING BUILDING MATERIALS, FURNITURE AND KITCHEN WASTE WHILE KEEPING A VIGILANT EYE ON ENERGY USE policies, making the point that catering companies are legally exempt and able to regulate themselves, thus compromising the integrity of the organic movement. The Duke of Cambridge is certified organic despite not needing to be so. That kind of commitment to a better future is a rare thing indeed. THE TASTE TEST So the eco-conscious ethos is undeniably admirable… but would the food live up to all the good intentions? Well, the dining experience certainly started well: the pub has a friendly, buzzy atmosphere and stylish agrarian-inspired décor. Happily, the pastoral goodness and human touch extended to the food. I started with Alham Woods English mozzarella with mushroom, sundried tomato and walnut pesto; continued with a main course of potato, cauliflower, tomato, spinach and lentil curry (accompanied by a chilli gherkin salad), and ended with chocolate and almond cake with crème fraiche. My dining partner, who chose a starter of pan-fried scallops and cauliflower purée; a main of three-cheese soufflé in a white wine sauce and beetroot salad, and a lemon pot with crème fraiche and prunes for dessert, summed the experience up neatly when he said that the most impressive thing about the food was how perfectly it combined the wholesome and the refined – an achievement rarely seen in top restaurants, let alone a local

organic pub. His stand-out flavours were the soufflé and beetroot. Mine were the mozzarella (creamy beyond belief!) and the garnishes – the tomatoes tasted as if they’d been plucked from the vine just moments before; the chillis and gherkins divulged a freshness that seemed to burst out into the mouth. It was as if these time-honoured and familiar ingredients were suddenly made new to us – and that shows genius at work. If The Duke of Cambridge was conceived to show that a better future is possible without scrimping on pleasure or quality along the way, then Geetie Singh can give herself a pat on the back: mission well and truly accomplished.  WHAT MAKES IT ORGANIC? Organic farming works in harmony with the land, without the use of chemicals, respecting the environment and its animals, developing fertile soil and nurturing insect and animal life to naturally deter crop pests. Crops are rotated to maintain healthy soil and animals are reared without the routine use of antibiotics and according to a high standard of animal welfare – as certified by the Soil Association. The Duke Of Cambridge 30 St Peter’s Street Islington, N1 8JT 020 7359 3066 dukeorganic.co.uk 39

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COCKLE, COLEY AND GURNARD FISH STEW WITH CROSTINI & SAFFRON GARLIC MAYO BY GEETIE SINGH & SARA BERG

INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4) MAYONNAISE • Juice of half a lemon • Pinch of saffron • 2 cloves of garlic • Pinch of sea salt • 2 egg yolks • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • 2 tsp white wine vinegar • Olive oil • Salt and pepper FISH STEW • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1 onion, finely chopped • 3 sticks celery, finely chopped • 2 small leeks, sliced finely • 1 x240g tin tomatoes • 200ml white wine • 200ml fish stock • 200g coley • 200g fillet of gurnard • 24 cockles (or 12 mussels)

METHOD Place the lemon juice and the saffron in a saucepan and simmer until it’s infused. In a pestle and mortar crush the garlic with sea salt. Place the egg yolks, Dijon mustard and wine vinegar and garlic in a bowl and blend it with a hand blender, then slowly add the olive oil until thick, add the lemon juice and saffron and continue whisking, adding more oil if needed.

TO SERVE Toasted thinly sliced bread for crostini

Serve the fish stew hot in bowls. Spread the mayo on the crostini and float it on top of the stew.

Heat oil in a saucepan, add the vegetables and fry until soft. Add the tinned tomatoes and the white wine, simmer and reduce. Add the fish stock and let simmer for about 15 minutes. Lastly, add the fish and season, cover with a lid and serve within 5 minutes. Discard any unopened cockles.

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29/03/2011 19:33


FOOD & DRINK

FEATURED RESTAURANTS

THEÊ BULLÊ &Ê LAST

H CHISTO AR RI M C

168 Highgate Road, NW5 1QS 0207 2673641 thebullandlast.co.uk OPENING TIMES: Dinner Tuesday – Saturday from 7pm – 10.30, and Sundays 7-9pm Lunch Saturday & Sunday 12.30 – 3.30pm

L

ocated just a stone’s throw from leafy Hampstead Heath, this historic pub housed in a Grade 2 listed building has recently been given a new lease of life by a young and passionate team. The Bull and Last retains a traditional pub atmosphere and provides outstanding seasonal food and fantastic service.

City&East

BALLS BROTHERS Minster Pavement, Mincing Lane, EC3R 7PP 020 7283 2838

British

CLUB GARCON 57 West Smithfield EC1A 9DS 020 7796 0600

French

North

NorthWest

PUBLIC HOUSE 54 Islington Park Street N1 1PX 020 7359 6070

British

FIFTEEN LONDON 13-15 Westland Place N1 7LP 020 7251 3909

Italian

THE BULL & LAST 168 Highgate Road, NW5 1QS 020 7267 3641

British

CAFE REX 172-174 Muswell Hill Broadway Muswell Hill, N10 3SA 020 8444 3463

British

DOLLAR GRILLS AND MARTINIS 2 Exmouth Market Farringdon EC1R 4PX 020 7278 0077 American

MAGHREB RESTAURANT 189 Upper Street N1 1RQ 020 7226 2305

GAUCHO 64 Heath Street, Hampstead, NW3 1DN 020 7431 8222

THE PEASANT 240 St John Street EC1V 4PH 020 7336 7726

LE MERCURY 140a Upper Street N1 1QY 0871 332 7745

MANNA 4 Erskine Road, Primrose Hill, NW3 3AJ 020 7722 8028

Gastro Pub

PRISM BRASSERIE 147, Leadenhall St, EC3V 4QT 020 7256 3888

Moroccan and Mediterranean

French

Argentinean

Vegetarian

OISHIII 67 Stoke Newington Church Street N16 0AR 020 7254 3488

PROUD KITCHEN Stables Market Camden Town NW1 8AH 0207 482 3867

ST. JOHN BAR & RESTAURANT SMITHFIELD 26 St John Street, EC1M 4AY 020 7251 4090

YUM YUM THAI RESTAURANT 183-187 Stoke Newington High Street N16 0LH 020 7254 6751

ROSE AND CROWN 86, Highgate High Street, Highgate, N6 5HX 020 8340 0770

SMITHS OF SMITHFIELD 67-77 Charterhouse Street EC1M 6HJ 020 7251 7950

ZILOUFS 270 Upper Street N1 2UQ 020 7226 1118

Brasserie

British

Modern European

Japanese

Thai

Pan Asian

World Cuisine

French

XO 29 Belsize Lane, Belsize Park, NW3 5AS 020 7433 0888

Pan Asian 43

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FOOD &DRINK

FEATURED BARS

THEÊ OLDÊ CROWN

S O ECR AS ET IS

PUBLICÊ HOUSE ADDRESS: The Old Crown Public House 33 New Oxford Street WC1A 1BH T: 020 7836 9121 (bookings only)

T

he Old Crown Public House is a secret oasis away from the bustle of the westend. Totally individual in it’s design, the aim is to deliver locally sourced fresh produce with stylish service in an unpretentious environment. The team at the Old Crown Public House own, designed, built and live in the venue. This is a public house in purest form

City&East

BAR MUSIC HALL

134 Curtain Road, Shoreditch EC2A 3AR ☎ 020 7729 7216 BOHO MEXICA

151-153 Commercial Street, London E1 6BJ. ☎ 020 7377 8418

North

ALBERT & PEARL

181 Upper St Islington N1 1RQ ☎ 020 7354 9993 THE BARNSBURY

209--211 Liverpool Road, Islington N1 1LX 020 7607 5519

NorthWest

THE ADELAIDE

143 Adelaide Road Primrose Hill, NW3 3NL ☎ 0870 383 4595 THE ALICE HOUSE

283-285 West End Lane West Hampstead London NW6 1RD ☎ 020 7431 8818

CALOOH CALLAY

THE COACH & HORSES

COCO BAMBOO

COTTONS

THE HANBURY ARMS

FIFTY FIVE BAR & LOUNGE

LOUNGELOVER

KESTON LODGE

131 Upper Street, Islington N1 1QP ☎ 020 7354 9535

2 Crouch End Hill, Crouch End, London, N8 8AA ☎ 020 8340 1028

PAUSE BAR

THE LONDESBOROUGH

MAGDALA

VINOTECA

WAX JAMBU

THE QUEENS PUB AND DINING ROOM

65 Rivington Street, Shoreditch EC2A 3AY ☎ 020 7739 4781

70 Exmouth Market, Farringdon EC1R 4QP ☎ 020 7833 333

1 Whitby Street Shoreditch E1 6JU ☎ 020 7012 1234

80-84 Leadenhall Street, Shoreditch EC3A 3DH ☎ 020 7621 0850

7 St John St London EC1 ☎ 020 7253 8786

178 Stoke Newington, High Street, N16 7JL ☎ 020 7254 6697

Linton Street, Islington, N1 7DU ☎ 020 7288 2222

36, Barbauld Rd, London N16 0SS ☎ 020 7254 5865

144-145 Upper St, Islington N1 1QY ☎ 020 7226 7660

48 Chalk Farm Road London NW1 8AJ ☎ 020 7267 6613

31 Jamestown Road Camden Town London NW1 7DB ☎ 020 7424 9054 KINGS HEAD

2a South Hill Park, London, NW3 2SB ☎ 020 7435 2503

26 Broadway Parade, Crouch End, N8 9DE ☎ 020 8340 2031

44

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“but where are my folks going to stay?”

THE ROSE & CROWN

Just a thought...

A local land-mark pub and boutique guest house overlooking Clissold Park and fashionable Stoke Newington

199 STOKE NEWINGTON CHURCH STREET, N16 9ES 020 7254 7497

roseandcrownn16.co.uk

If you’re looking for a restaurant that’s offering something different, there’s only one place to go – for the finest in Moroccan food head to Maghreb. With a menu that includes harira, taboulleh and tanjines, the richness and diversity of this phenomenal cuisine is captured beautifully. The bar is also the perfect spot to open a bottle of wine from their extensive wine list that covers Morocco and beyond.

“Maghreb, is a dream of a restaurant... ...tackling the full repertoire of Moroccan classics with a flair and attention to detail that few can rival.” – Time Out Magazine

rose and crown/maghreb.indd 22

Maghreb Moroccan Restaurant & Bar 189 Upper Street, N1 1RQ, 020 7226 2305 www.maghreb-restaurant.com

29/04/2011 10:59


FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT REVIEW: XO, BELSIZE PARK, NW3

XTRO

SPECIAL AdamÊ CoghlanÊ visitsÊ contemporaryÊ PanasianÊ eatery,Ê XO

I

will first of all make an admission and concede that I had my reservations about XO: a very pristinely kitted-out red/black/ stainless steel affair in leafy north London suburbia serving food best described, notwithstanding Sticky Toffee Pudding and friends for desert, as Asiatic. There is no disputing the natural pleasure in arriving somewhere like Belsize village on a balmy spring evening to the European setting of sophisticates smoking and drinking on pavement terraces. I however, felt that the online proclamation: a ‘stylish contemporary restaurant and bar, serving exceptional pan-Asian food [and] bringing West End quality closer to home’ and photographs of bar stools resembling reconstituted shopping baskets on legs smacked of an overconfidence and an emphasis on style over substance. As is often the case when personal prejudice clouds objective openmindedness, I was immediately surprised and pleased to be served an exceptional pint of Asahi lager. It sounds like a small thing, but beer is too often poorly kept; here it was as clean as a whistle and came in a chilled glass which took it to an even higher plain of refreshment. To further surprise, where usually in such venues the faint murmur of lounge jazz sterilises any potential atmosphere, here there was a decent buzz and a sense of calm that comes with the presence of competent and well-trained staff. This would prove no illusion. After enjoying the pre-dinner pints in the bar, we made our way into the

dining room. Although the restaurant wasn’t full it was easy to forget that this was a Monday night; it seems to be a popular haunt for the more discerning, if style-conscious, residents in the neighbourhood. It came as little surprise that within a few minutes of sitting down, a celebrity had turned up for dinner. By the time our main courses had arrived, there were no free tables and I can conclude that this because the food here is excellent. It is difficult to get steamed and salted edamame beans wrong, but paired with a piquant chilli soy and mirin dip, they were a wonder: a perfect pre-starter. Equally good was a remarkably light chilli salt quid – an Asian version of deep-fried calamari. Where a mixed plate of sushi and sashimi (thick pieces of fresh salmon and tuna, crab rolls) was good, dim sum of chicken sui mai with chilli jam was a carnival of flavours beneath the bite. The flavour profile was so complex that to regurgitate it here would be futile. Instead, I would recommend that you try them yourself – an assault (in a good way) on the tastebuds. Such was their brilliance, it wasn’t before the starters had been cleared, another round of drinks had arrived and the main courses were in front of us, that my friend Jack and I stopped lauding the sui mai. Thereafter, the main courses served only to confirm what the starters had just told us: that the kitchen here knows

exactly what they are doing. A king prawn phad thai was very good. The sweet umami-rich sticky noodles offset by a balanced range of flavours and textures – broken peanuts, beansprouts freshened by a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkling of coriander. Even better was a perfectly cooked dish of steamed sea bass with black bean. The delicacy and finely judged acidity of the sauce provided a lovely, if unusual match for the subtle fish. With it we had sides of jasmine rice and a plate of bok choi with shaoxing and ginger. Both were good- the latter a sharp and lively foil to the phad thai. To finish we each had a selection of sorbets, not merely because they were the least strange option. A list that includes a group of British menuimposters probably demonstrates little more than an awareness of the wants of the clientele. Like with everything else they do – rows of comfortable banqueted-booths suit a clean and smart décor; the service astute and attentive – XO indicated an assured sense of self-identity. The sorbets, particularly a tart blackcurrant one, were wonderful. With that, their confidence had been vindicated and I left with a further (as if I needed it) reaffirmation of their allround competency.  29 Belsize Lane, NW3 5AS 020 7433 0888 rickerrestaurants.com/xo

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...a modern local... PUBLIC HOUSE is a modern local tucked away just off Upper Street in Islington comprising a modern british restaurant and fancy cocktail lounge specialising in seasonal british food and classic cocktails with a thoughtful twist. We have come up with something slightly different but based on simple, age-old ideas. A bar & restaurant in Islington where the hosts know your name just like in the community based public houses of a bygone day, but where the service, food & drink are up to the standards of today’s discerning consumer.

PUBLIC HOUSE MAY OFFERS: 2 courses & a glass of Prosecco for £17.50 (mon-sat) Sunday Roast & a Bloody Mary for £10

PUBLIC HOUSE is pretty...not in a statuesque model sense, rather like the kooky girl next door with something a little wonky about her person that just adds to her charm. The space is divided into a lounge/ bar area towards the front, with a restaurant area further back.

54 Islington Park Street, N1 1PX | Tel: 020 7359 6070 | Email: simon@boutiquepubs.com www.boutiquepubs.com | Follow us on Twitter @public_housen1 Open Day Ad 190x132

6/4/11

16:06

Page 1

St. Francis’ College

Independent Boarding and Day school for girls aged 3-18 years.

Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire

Have you looked at

weekly boarding for your daughter?

• • • • •

4 nights at school and 3 nights at home over the weekend All the benefits of boarding as well as family time Just half an hour North of Central London, in safe rural Hertfordshire Homework with an academic tutor Excellent results, 84% in the English Baccalaureate places us in the top 2% of all schools nationally despite only taking girls of average ability and above • “The standard of the pupils’ personal development is excellent” ISI inspection 2011 • Fabulous extra curricular opportunities

Come and see what’s on offer at Hertfordshire’s best kept secret

Open Day

Saturday 7th May 10.00am - 12.30pm

To pre-register for Open Day or to arrange a visit please email: admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk or call 01462 670511 St. Francis’ College, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3PJ www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Public house/st francis.indd 22

29/04/2011 11:02


KIDS

1 4

2

K DS 6 KI KIDS CORNER

3 5

EverythingÊ youÊ needÊ toÊ keepÊ yourÊ childrenÊ entertainedÊ

7

8

9

1. COWBOY BABYGROW Made by The Miniature Knit Shop, this gorgeous all-in-one knitted cowboy outfit is hand-made using 100% lambswool and full of cute details. Available in one size to fit up to 9 months. £136 shoplunaandcurious.comÊ Ê 2. SOPHIE LA GIRAFE BATH TOY Made in the French Alps with natural rubber and non-toxic paint, Sophie La Girafe is the World’s most famous teething toy and celebrates her 50th birthday this month! This bath toy is a delightful addition to your baby’s Sophie collection. £6.99 sophielagirafe.co.ukÊ 3. HELLO KITTY PICNIC TABLE This fab Hello Kitty picnic table sits up to 4 children and comes with a sturdy parasol; perfect for little ladies who lunch! £69.95 prezzybox.comÊ Ê 4. KIRBY’S EPIC YARN Kirby has been turned into yarn and his world is unraveling! With a brand new look and companion for his latest adventure, you and a friend can enjoy two-player play as you weave this patchwork land back together. £24.99 game.co.ukÊ Ê 5. LARGE PLUSH VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR Everyone’s favourite hungry critter comes to life in this adorable plush toy. £16.95 temptationgifts.comÊ Ê 6. FELT CUPCAKE SET These charming soft cupcakes are perfect for any make-believe tea party your little girl is hosting. £20 lauraashley.comÊ Ê 7. PAPERTOY MONSTERS ‘Papertoys’ are paper airplanes meets Origami meets Pokemon; an Internet phenomenon that’s hot among graphic designers and is now available for kids in this cool new book. With 50 monsters to make, this book offers hours of fun for kids and adults alike and you can even upload your fi nished monsters on the Papertoy website! £12.99 amazon.co.ukÊ Ê 8. JUICY COUTURE ANIMAL EAR HEADPHONES Your little girl will love listening to music with Juicy Couture’s sweet animal headphones. Designed with cute ears, they’re fi nished in a luxe silk and cashmere mix for an ultra comfortable fit. £65 selfridge.comÊ Ê 9. RUIN PRESCHOOL BLUE LIGHT-UP KEYBOARD There’s hours of musical fun to be had with this light up electronic keyboard! Your child can play along to 8 musical rhythms and different instrument sounds and play back their creations.£49.99 toysrus.co.uk

48

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Distinctly Different Limited Is Islington’s premier provider of Personal Development products and services

Personal Development and Learning for the Business, Education and Community sectors We have years of expertise working with business organisations, schools and communities, which are made up of individuals who are each unique and distinctly different; we are equipped to support them to increase their effectiveness

We exist to help individuals and organisations maximise their efficiency and further their skills through a range of tailored services: ● Consultancy and Development ● Programme Development ● Learning and Developing ● Adult Learning and Further Education ● Project Management Also specialists in the creative design of developmental products: ● Shhh or Tell It! This game helps kids to learn about decision-making in a fun and exciting way; a perfect fun filled experience for the whole family to share ● Distinctly Different Accessories Explore our range of unique products designed to increase personal effectiveness and ensure understanding of the core part of personal development

Distinctly Different Limited 658 Holloway Road, London N19 3NU Tel: +44 (0) 20 7281 8344

Distinctly Different5.indd 1

29/04/2011 01:13


Just add water spring sale advert 2011:buckhurst hill life_march 2010_just add water

22/3/11

14:20

Page 1

l r na Ap tio g di nin 0th Ad e 1 m Op day -4p n m Su 10a

on

SALE NOW ON SALE NOW SALE NOWON ON

on sel ecte d p ro d uc t s on selec t e d pro duct s on selecte Specialising in the very best in contemporary design bathroom and sanitaryware from major brand names across the worldd pro duct s Showrooms Showrooms Showrooms

Specialising in the very best in contemporary design bathroom and sanitaryware from major brand names across the world the very best in contemporary fromRoad major brand names across the world 202Specialising - 228 York in Way Roding Lane design bathroom and sanitaryware 15 -17 Margaret 202 Roding Lane Lane 15 Margaret Road 202- -228 228York YorkWay Way Roding 15 -17-17 Margaret Road King’s Cross Buckhurst Hill Barnet 202 - 228 York Way Roding Lane 15 -17 Margaret Road King’s Cross Buckhurst Hill Barnet King’sN7 Cross Buckhurst Hill Barnet London 9AZ Essex IG9 6DR Hertfordshire King’s Cross Buckhurst Hill Barnet EN4 9NR London N7 9AZ Essex IG96DR 6DR Hertfordshire EN4 London N73161 9AZ Essex IG9 Hertfordshire EN4 9NR9NR 020 7697 020 8504 6625 020 8370 6430 London N7 9AZ Essex IG9 6DR Hertfordshire EN4 9NR 020 020 8504 85046625 6625 020 8370 6430 0207697 76973161 3161 020 020 8370 6430 020 7697 3161 020 8504 6625 020 8370 6430 www.justaddwater.co.uk sales@justaddwater.co.uk www.justaddwater.co.uk sales@justaddwater.co.uk www.justaddwater.co.uk sales@justaddwater.co.uk

Ci Ex m ty & clus 15 ag A ive az ng ly Of Ple % i fe as o ne el/ fo rv e re Nx r ali qu ff d ot ou ad NW un e er til ref r f s: 31 . C e

es .

Ju &A ly 71 20 1 11

.

Wide range of bespoke residential design services Planning and layout of single rooms to complete homes Sourcing furniture and/or materials Interior decoration Refurbishments One-off consultations Services for estate agents looking to enhance the value of properties for sale

INTERNO UNO – London, UK – t. 07949 868 105 – emidio@internouno.co.uk – www.internouno.co.uk

Just add water_Inter uno.indd 1

29/04/2011 14:55


TECHNOLOGY

ECTAR RKSHIRE N US UK: YO M MYDECO.COM ANONYMO O £49.95 FR CUSHION

3Ê WAYSÊ TOÊ BEÊ AÊ DESIGNERÊ ONLINE

WorkingÊ forÊ aÊ digitalÊ designÊ agencyÊ (thatÕ sÊ websitesÊ toÊ youÊ andÊ me),Ê thereÊ isÊ alwaysÊ plentyÊ ofÊ inspirationÊ toÊ beÊ foundÊ online.Ê ThisÊ month,Ê thereÕ sÊ someÊ realÊ treats,Ê fromÊ creatingÊ yourÊ veryÊ ownÊ masterpieceÊ toÊ becomingÊ anÊ interiorÊ designer WWW.MYDECO.COM A great shop with some inspiring interior design ideas. Probably too mainstream for the more arty types among you, but certainly a good start before committing to that £8,000 armchair-come-basket ball hoop. WWW.ZEFRANK.COM/ SCRIBBLER This recommendation follows plenty of press and publicity. Made famous through the Apple iPad and iPhone applications, Scribbler turns your random, uninspiring lines into interesting works of art. It’s fun for 5 minutes, but if you keep at it, you might be surprised at what it can produce. With the ability to save a

high resolution image, you might actually consider putting it onto canvas (then, probably eBay). V3.PLANNINGWIZ.COM We’re moving office very soon (other side of the building if you’re interested) and this tool has been invaluable. It’s like testing Feng Shui using the web. Discovering what works and what doesn’t before committing

to buying shelves or sofas. The great thing about the tool is its ease of use. No forms, just log on, select your room size and start playing.

Iain Scott is managing director of Islington based web design agency, Base Creative. Iain’s role is helping businesses make more of their online marketing. basecreative.eu 51

CA MAY 11 Iains Column.indd 51

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KITCHENS OF DISTINCTION GERMAN MADE

Little Kitchen Store.com 878 High Road, North Finchley, London N12 9RH

020 8445 5454

Little Kitchen Store.indd 1

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EXPERIENCE THE SPEED OF SOUND IN YOUR HOME You don’t have to drive your Aston Martin into your living room to

designed with exceptional craftsmanship and the utmost in advanced

have the Bang & Olufsen experience in your home. We have a

engineering. Able to evoke emotions and sensations you thought

immense array of extremely sophisticated audio and video systems

only came from getting behind the wheel.

with the same approach to precision and high performance as your Aston Martin. From televisions with remarkable image clarity and

Visit Bang & Olufsen of Winchmore Hill to test drive any of our

colour, to music systems with interactive magic, to discrete digital

products. And brace yourself for a full throttle experience that’s

players and more. Each one is an object of desire in its own right,

nothing less than astonishing.

Bang of Olufsen of Winchmore Hill Home Entertainment Services include: • Multi room Audio & Video, CCTV, Satellite & Home Networks • Home Cinema • Authorised Distributors for: Kaleidescape - Home Movies & Music Control 4 & Lutron - Lighting Systems Aquavision - Kitchen & Bathroom TV

Bang & Olufsen of Winchmore Hill 733 Green Lanes, Winchmore Hill, London N21 3RX Tel: 0208 360 5088 Email: winchmorehill@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/winchmorehill

BANG & OLUFSEN.indd 1

Bang & Olufsen of Winchmore Hill - Aston Martin Tryout Advert - Place at 100% (297 x 210mm)

19/04/2011 14:37


KIDS

14 MAY

KID’S SOIREE

WhatÕ sÊ OnÊ

MAY

AT KEAT’S HOUSE Keats House are celebrating the launch of their Kids Guide with an evening premiere party especially for kids. Explore the house where John Keats lived and worked by taking part in an indoor story trail and creating a collage which will go on display in the House. Refreshments and a goody bag will be provided. Ê £5Ê perÊ child,Ê FREEÊ forÊ parents.Ê KeatsÊ House,Ê KeatsÊ GroveÊ HampsteadÊ NW3Ê 2RRÊ keatshouse. cityoflondon.gov.uk

We round up all the best things to do this month

CINEMA

3 – 22 MAY THEATRE

20 MAY – 26 JUNE

‘PLAY IT AGAIN SAM’

UPSTAIRS AT THE GATEHOUSE John Plews directs Woody Allen’s classic 1972 comedy; the story of a neurotic film critic trying to get over his wife leaving him with the help of his two married friends... and his alter ego Humphrey Bogart! UpstairsÊ atÊ theÊ Gatehouse,Ê HighgateÊ Village,Ê N6Ê 4BDÊ upstairsatthegatehouse.comÊ

MARK THOMAS: EXTREME RAMBLINGS

THE TRICYCLE THEATRE Comedian and political activist Mark Thomas decided to go rambling in the Middle East and walked the entire length of the Israeli Separation Barrier between the Israeli and the Palestinian side. A story of 300,000 settlers; a 750km wall; six arrests, too much hummus and a simple question: “Can you ever get away from it all with a good walk?” 269Ê KilburnÊ HighÊ Road,NW6Ê 7JR,Ê tricycle.co.uk

ALBUM LAUNCH

10 MAY

GILES ROBSON & THE DIRTY ACES

THE BLUES KITCHEN GilesÊ RobsonÊ isÊ aÊ damnÊ fine Harmonica player and he and his band are attracting a rather large amountÊ ofÊ attentionÊ atÊ theÊ moment, so check out this special free entry event to launch the new album, ‘Crooked Heart of Mine’. theblueskitchen.comÊ 111Ê Ð Ê 113Ê CamdenÊ HighÊ StreetÊ NW1Ê 7JN

MUSIC

10 & 11 MAY GLASVEGAS

HMV FORUM Following a short sold-out tour in Scotland earlier this year, Glaswegian rockers Glasvegas continue to tour the UK following the release of their highlyanticipated second album, ‘Euphoric/// Heartbreak’. Raw and epic; their sound is a unique combination of 50’s rockabilly surf music with raucous, brooding rock. Ê Miss them live at Ê your peril! TheÊ HMVÊ Forum,Ê 9-17Ê HighgateÊ Road,Ê KentishÊ Town,Ê NW5Ê 1JYÊ venues.meanfiddler. com/the-forum/homeÊ glasvegas.net

54

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T: 020 8450 9555

sales@marazzidesign.com TO VIEW OUR LATEST DESIGNS PLEASE VISIT

WWW.MARAZZIDESIGN.COM MARAZZI FP MAY11.indd 1

27/04/2011 16:46


Modular gardens May 11.indd 1

19/04/2011 11:21


Want to find out what’s not on the market?

providing an exclusive property finding service in east anglia

www.hollandclarke.co.uk HCPS (RHP).indd 1 Advert to print.indd 2

01728 638388 28/04/2011 12:59 17/03/2011 21:33


Priory Avenue, Crouch End, N8

£895,000 Freehold Sole Agents

A delightful mid terraced bay fronted Edwardian house offering spacious well modernised accommodation over two and a half floors including living room open to dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, four bedrooms, study, bathroom/wc and a shower room/wc, also with the benefit of a useful cellar with separate entrance and an 80’ west facing garden. Crouch End Office: 020 8341 4050

BRANCHES AT MUSWELL HILL, CROUCH END AND EAST FINCHLEY TATLERS MAY.indd 62

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www.tatlers.co.uk

Cranley Gardens, N10

£1,275,000 Freehold Sole Agents

Beech Drive, Ringwood Estate, N2

£2,695,000 Freehold Sole Agents

A fine example of a well presented four bedroom Collins built family home which provides extremely bright accommodation throughout whilst retaining a wealth of original period features and boasts two formal reception rooms and a lovely day room with conservatory leading out to a beautifully maintained 125’ rear garden. Benefits also include off street parking and an expansive loft with potential to convert (subject to relevant consents). Located within a short distance of Queens Woods and Highgate Tube Station (Northern Lane) Muswell Hill Office: 020 8444 1771

A magnificent five double bedroom detached family home having been exquisitely maintained throughout by the current owners with no expense spared. The property affords larger than average size rooms, some stunning fireplaces, a luxurious fitted kitchen/diner, four bathrooms, garage and off street parking for approx six cars and a breathtaking rear garden. Situated on the highly coveted Ringwood Estate within the catchment of Fortismere Secondary School. East Finchley Office: 020 8883 1001

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52 High Street, London N8 7NX Tel: 020 8342 9444 Email: info@philipalexander.net www.philipalexander.net

/philipalexander.net @Estate_Agent_N8

Reduced Letting Fees!

In order to meet the huge demand we have for residential property to let in North London we have reduced our letting fee to only 5% + vat!

Check out our new improved website where you will can also find detailed information on all of our services, browse our current range of properties to let or find out what we’ve been doing to support the local community recently!

www.philipalexander.net

PHILIP ALEXANDER MAY_v4.indd 62

29/04/2011 09:59


Why use Philipalexander to rent your property?

Allow our lettings team to take the stress out of your rental with our professional advice, guidance and expert knowledge

We believe in establishing successful working relationships with all of our landlords and are there at every step of the letting process, from the preparation of the property through to finding the ideal tenants.

Whether you are an experienced landlord with a large portfolio of rental properties, or are planning to rent out your first property, PhilipAlexander can help you realise the potential in your property and create a stable, hassle-free investment.

At PhilipAlexander we pride ourselves on delivering professional tenants who will care and treat your property with the same respect that you would. All of our tenants go through comprehensive referencing and credit checks ensuring you receive a smooth and enjoyable rental period.

With a proven track record, experienced staff and a reliable maintenance team you can rest assured that your property is in the safest possible hands.

If you are interested in finding out more about any of our landlord services please feel free to call our office on 020 8342 9444

/philipalexander.net @Estate_Agent_N8

PHILIP ALEXANDER MAY_v4.indd 63

52 High Street, London N8 7NX Tel: 020 8342 9444 Email: info@philipalexander.net www.philipalexander.net

29/04/2011 10:00


VIEWPOINT Michael green, director oF tatlers

PROPERTYÊ NEWS

Moselle Place, a Prestigious new develoPMent in crouch end

Offered for sale through Winkworth Crouch End is Moselle Place - a brand new development of 35 spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments across four storeys along with gated basement parking. Moselle Place is a development by award winning developer, Bellway Homes, and is located on Park Road - between Muswell Hill and Crouch End - just a few minutes walk from the hustle and bustle of Crouch End Broadway. Nestling in a valley surrounded by acres of green space yet offering all the attractions of one of the capital’s chicest enclaves - Crouch End is the urban village par excellence. So it is unsurprising that the location attracts everyone from city professional to media creative - and anyone who loves the unique buzz. With its distinctive landmark clock tower, fine period houses, and independent shops that have become part of the landscape, Crouch End feels like a place apart - yet is just seven miles from the London Eye. Winkworth Crouch End Tel: 020 8342 9999

Budget-hidden Boost For house Prices... Proposed changes in stamp duty are set to provide a fillip to house prices. Boosted by a multi-billion pound new stream of buy-to-let investment from those institutions prompted by a clause in the budget; this previously unnoticed clause reforms how stamp duty is calculated for multi/bulk buyers of residential property. If the budget proposal laws are passed, stamp duty for institutional investors and other buy-to-let landlords could be cut by 80%. Anyone buying a property portfolio of, for example, 100 homes worth on average £200,000 each after April 6th, would currently face a tax charge of £1m or 5% of the £20m deal value. The chancellor however has proposed changing the way tax is calculated so that the rate applied is based on the average value of the properties-not their bulk or total value. In the example above, the average price paid is £200,000, the rate of duty is just 1% and so the total tax bill falls to £200,000. This kind of change would provide a big boost to the private rented sector, enabling pension funds and other institutional investors to buy residential property in large volumes without unfair spikes in stamp duty. In fact, any buyer of more than one property at a time stands to benefit from the proposed reforms. Tatlers www.tatlers.co.uk

Yale terrace - a stunning new develoPMent in north london Winkworth are the selling agents for a new development,Yale Terrace, featuring a stunning collection of eight contemporary townhouses and four apartments in one of Islington’s most rapidly changing areas. The development, by Empyrean, is situated on Mitford Road N19, an up and coming area of North London, between Finsbury Park, Upper Holloway, Crouch End and Stroud Green. These areas boast some of North London’s best parks, markets, shops, restaurants and bars. Winkworth Kentish Town Tel: 020 7485 9210

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Estate Agents Residential Lettings and Management

Central Muswell Hill, N10

£2,875,000 Freehold

Central Muswell Hill, N10

£1,625,000 Freehold

An imposing double fronted “late Regency” villa, circa 1830’s, incorporating a wealth of architectural features, combined with a smart and tasteful modern restoration. 3,800 sq. ft. of living space provides a delightful family home for the 21st Century. Situated right in the heart of Muswell Hill, nestled behind established trees, is a deep, secluded 80 ft. front garden and carriage driveway, leading to this impressive house, Set on a large plot of 1/3rd of an acre, which is spread over 3 floors and has 5 double bedrooms - one with an en suite bathroom and a large, adjacent dressing room - 4 expansive reception rooms, including a drawing room, a spacious study/morning room and a separate formal dining room plus a family sized kitchen/breakfast room. There is a large playroom/games room - on the lower ground floor - with a utility area and a wine store. There is also a stunning, approximately 200ft. long, south westerly facing garden - and a generously sized garage, opening from the carriage driveway.

Situated in a prestigious location, close to the shops in Muswell Hill Broadway, is an expansive and double fronted Edwardian terraced house, which retains masses of the original features, fireplaces, newly fitted double glazed sash windows throughout and a delightful approximately 62ft. long, Southerly facing garden. The house has very flexible living space on the ground and mezzanine floor, allowing it to be utilized with 2 or 3 reception rooms or 4 or 5 double bedrooms - one with a white en suite shower room. There is a spacious kitchen/dining room - with access to the garden - a very large utility cellar and a family bathroom - with a “walk in” shower as well as a bath. Also a huge loft - with ample potential for creating 2 additional bedrooms and an en suite bathroom, obviously subject to planning and building regulations - gas central heating and potential for off street parking - again subject to planning permission.

336-338 Muswell Hill Broadway London N10 1DJ Telephone: 020 8883 5485 | Email: info@jhk.co.uk JHK MAY.indd 64

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www.jhk.co.uk

Muswell Hill, N10

£1,195,000 Freehold

Muswell Hill, N10

£875,000 Freehold

Situated in a secluded tree lined road, moments from the greenery of Alexandra Park, within easy walking distance of good local shops and a short drive from the shops in Muswell Hill Broadway, is an expansive, detached house, built in the 1920’s, on 3 floors, which has 4- 5 bedrooms - plus the advantage of a separate “au pairs” or Granny flat - 2 expansive reception rooms - one opening to the garden - and a large fitted kitchen/diner. There is also a family bathroom and separate shower room, a downstairs loo, gas central heating, an alarm system and a lovely wide, approximately 88ft. long, South Westerly facing lawned garden, plus a single garage and an off street parking space.

In a peaceful, sought after cul de sac, is a “wider than average”, semi linked 1920’s built house, which has 4 good sized bedrooms - one a fabulous loft conversion with an en suite bathroom and a wall of windows overlooking gardens. There are 2 bright reception rooms and a large fitted kitchen/dining room, a family bathroom, a downstairs loo, gas central heating, an ADT burglar and fire alarm and a wide, approximately 100ft. long, Westerly facing garden - with a side path to the front garden - where there is off street parking. The house is conveniently situated within easy walking distance of Muswell Hill Broadway with its associated shopping and transport facilities, including bus routes to Highgate and East Finchley Tube Stations - for speedy journeys to the City and West End.

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