your complimentary copy

HC
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016
your complimentary copy
Home Counties Magazine
Buckinghamshire & Berkshire Edition
VALENTINE’S SPECIALS
AT CROWNE PLAZA MARLOW
ROSES ARE RED…
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th February from 7pm
Enjoy a sumptuous 4 course meal, with a glass of
Prosecco and a gift for your special one.
£45.00 per person
VIOLETS ARE BLUE...
Fridays and Saturdays throughout February
Treat the one you love to a luxurious overnight stay,
including breakfast and a delicious 4 course meal with
a glass of Prosecco and a gift for your special one.
£99.00 per person*
SUGAR IS SWEET
Fridays and Saturdays throughout February
A night of decadence at Crowne Plaza Marlow with a
bottle of sparkling wine, flowers and chocolate dipped
strawberries in your room on arrival. A luxurious King
Room and sumptuous breakfast, as well as a 4 course
dinner with a glass of Prosecco and a gift for your
special one.
£119.00 per person*
Upgrade to a Club Room for only £40.00
Based on two people sharing
*
Based on two people sharing
*
COME ALONG TO OUR WEDDING FAIR, 11AM–3PM, SUNDAY 13TH MARCH.
ENJOY A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF BUBBLES AND CANAPÉS ON ARRIVAL,
AS WELL AS EXCLUSIVE WEDDING OFFERS ON THE DAY.
PLEASE BOOK YOUR VALENTINE’S SPECIAL ONLINE
AT WWW.CPMARLOW.CO.UK/WHATS-ON
2
T: 01628 496 860 | E: enquiries@cpmarlow.co.uk | W: cpmarlow.co.uk
CROWNE PLAZA MARLOW, FIELDHOUSE LANE, MARLOW, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE, SL7 1GJ.
PACKAGES FROM
ONLY £49 PER PERSON
A HIDDEN GEM IN THE HEART OF BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
The stunning lakeside location of this modern hotel makes it the perfect venue for your special day. Crowne Plaza
Marlow is a superb wedding venue in the heart of the beautiful Chilterns and Thames Valley, only a few minutes
from Marlow, M4 and M40. The venue benefits from a spacious layout creating a feeling of calm and is surrounded
by luscious woodland, lawns and a lake. The lawns are also available for a blessing and provide a very romantic setting.
STUNNING FACILITIES
CONSERVATORY PACKAGE INCLUDES:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Banqueting Suite for up to 300 dinner guests
Four areas licensed for civil ceremonies
168 luxury en suite bedrooms, with special room
rates available for wedding guests
Health Club, Spa and swimming pool
Dedicated Wedding Co-ordinators.
•
•
£49* per person
Welcome drink
Hire of the conservatory, with views
overlooking the lake
3 course menu with tea, coffee and petit fours
Cake stand and knife
CALL OUR WEDDING CO-ORDINATORS ON 01628 496 860 OR
EMAIL ENQUIRIES@CPMARLOW.CO.UK TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS.
*
Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum numbers of 25. Maximum numbers of 70.
£49 Package is only applicable for weddings held in The Conservatory.
Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ, Postcode for Sat Nav: SL7 1LU
T: 01628 496 860 | E: weddings@cpmarlow.co.uk | W: www.cpmarlow.co.uk
3
Re-opening 18th March
Discover the splendour and history of the Abbey and its treasures
•
Stroll through 28 acres of award-winning beautiful gardens,
full of spring flowers
•
Treat yourself at the Duchess’ Tea Room
FIND US ON
01525 290333 admissions@woburn.co.uk
www.woburnabbey.co.uk
Welcome
I am thrilled. I am delighted. I am elated. I am so excited that I’ve started
involuntarily emitting a low humming noise, 24 hours a day. My legs are
aquiver, my mouth is dry. I am beside myself with anticipation.
Why, I hear you ask? Well, since you’ve asked,
when I leave for work at the end of the day,
it’s not completely dark. Now, this might not
sound like a good reason to whip myself up
into a nervous frenzy, but when you hate winter
with as much raw passion as I do, this is a
very serious event. The Christmas holidays are
all well and good, but when the festivities are
over and done with I just want to fast-forward
to, say, early June, back to my comfort zone
of beer gardens, festivals and relative warmth.
To match my boundless enthusiasm for
the forthcoming temperature increase, this
edition of HC is full to the brim with reasons to
celebrate the upcoming months.
We have a packed What’s On section for
ideas on how to fill your weekends and spare
time, a gorgeous guide to planning your perfect
wedding and a typically enthralling ode to Tahiti
and her islands by Peter Holthusen, alongside
interior design tips, an update on men’s
grooming trends and much more.
So, enjoy February and March, and I’ll
be back for the next issue unless I’ve
physically burst before then.
Jack Rayner
Your Wedding...Every Moment...Every Detail
We understand that you and your
partner envisage a truly perfect and
individual day.
Every Bride & Groom is special to
us, our team will guide you through
all the stages of planning your special
day. Leave all the finer details to us,
just relax and enjoy your “big day”
to the full.
Book your wedding with us, your
package, we will include:
• Red Carpet Welcome
• Master of Ceremonies
• Use of a cake stand and knife
• Preferential accommodation rates
for your guests
• Complimentary bedroom for the
bride and groom
The Blenheim room for more
intimate affairs.
The Silverstone for the larger party.
We have several menus and drinks
packages available.
WEDDING
FAIR
20th March,
11am-3pm
• Finest quality white table linen with
coloured napkins
OXFORDSHIRE INN HOTEL
Heathfield Village, Bletchingdon, Oxford OX5 3DX
Telephone 01869 351444 www.oxfordshireinnhotel.co.uk
5
TUES 2ND FEB
BINGO NIGHT
From 8pm
SAT 13TH FEB
VALENTINE’S
DISCO
7.30pm-late
TUES 1ST MAR
BINGO NIGHT
From 8pm
THURS 17TH MAR
ST PATRICK’S DAY
CELEBRATION
Irish Folk Band
from 7.30pm
EASTER SUNDAY
SPRING
FAMILY DAY
Mobile petting farm featuring
baby ducklings, small pygmy goats,
unusual chickens, baby
rabbits, guinea pigs,
and lambs
FRI 26TH FEB
LIVE MUSIC
NIGHT
From 7.30pm
FRI 25TH MAR
GOOD FRIDAY
LIVE MUSIC
NIGHT
BANK HOLIDAY
MON 28TH MAR
KARAOKE
RICHINGS SPORTS PARK
FEBRUARY & MARCH
EVENTS GUIDE
Check out what’s on at Richings Sports Park!
Call 01753 650801 for more information or visit www.richingssportspark.co.uk
Richings Sports Park Wellesley Avenue, Richings Park Iver, Buckinghamshire, SL0 9BN
t: 01753 650801 w: www.richingssportspark.co.uk
HC
CONTENTS
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016
magazine
10
IN THIS ISSUE
9 What’s On
21 De-stressing the holidays
27The Power of Love:
HC’s Wedding Guide
50
41Tahiti and her islands
50New Year deep clean
at Blenheim Palace
21
52 A Great Reception:
Tips on decorating your living room
59 Men’s facial hair trends for 2016
16
59
Editor
Jill Rayner
Artwork & Design
Ads Advertising + Design (Oxford) Ltd
The Planing Shed,
Blenheim Palace Sawmills
Combe, Oxfordshire OX29 8ET
29
64Motoring
HC Magazine,
Fyne Associates Ltd, Unit 4,
Ram Court, Wicklesham Farm,
Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7PN
01235 856300
Jill@fyne.co.uk
Contributors
oxhc.co.uk
twitter.com/oxhcmags
facebook.com/OXHCMags
HC Magazine is a sister title to OX Magazine
distributed in Oxford, Woodstock, Witney,
and Wallingford.
HC Magazine prints and distributes 10,000 copies bi-monthly
and hand delivers into AB homes in the city of Marlow,
Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross and Amersham. It is also
in the bedrooms and reception areas of luxury hotels and
spas, in superior golf clubs and in leading estate agents,
and at Oxford Airport. Copies are also available from our
advertisers, or on request by emailing jill@fyne.co.uk and
online at www.oxhc.co.uk It has an estimated readership of
40,000 per issue.
A huge thank-you this issue to:
Peter Holthusen, Jack Rayner,
Amanda Hanley & Kevin Haggarthy
The magazine has copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Manuscripts,
photographs and other materials submitted to the magazine are sent at owners risk. Neither the company nor its agents accept any liability for loss or damage.
7
8
February-March 2016 CALENDAR
C
Until 31st March
Fairytale Farm Development
Chipping Norton’s Fairytale Farm is crowdfunding
from 1st February to 31st March 2016, to enable it to
embark on the next phase of its development.
Until 12th March
The Perfect Murder at the Mill
Victor and Joan have been married for twenty
years. Too long. Victor would rather be with his
mistress Kamilla. Joan wants to escape with her
new love Don. Only one answer to this marital
problem…the perfect murder!
And then young Detective Roy Grace is called
in to investigate. It is his very first homicide
case and as he delves deeper into the mystery,
dark forces intervene. It soon becomes clear to
Detective Grace that nothing – in love, marriage
or murder – is quite as it seems.
Peter James’ novel spent 15 weeks at No. 1 in
the book charts, and his Roy Grace books have
sold over 14 million copies and been translated
into 36 languages. Now The Perfect Murder has
been adapted for the stage by Shaun McKenna.
This highly entertaining dark comedy thriller has
been acclaimed by audiences and critics around
the country – so don’t miss out!
Address: The Mill at Sonning Theatre Ltd,
Sonning Eye, RG4 6TY
Tel: 0118 969 8000
Visit The Website: www.millatsonning.com
Owner Nick Laister explains: “Fairytale Farm is the
first mainstream visitor attraction where everything
has been designed for children with disabilities – but
that can be enjoyed by everybody – and where no prebooking is required. We have achieved a phenomenal
amount since the Prime Minister, David Cameron, cut
the ribbon in 2013, but there is a lot more to do and we
need your help to achieve it.”
The Farm is trying to raise £91,500 for a number of
projects, all of which will be implemented over the next
two years. The projects include: two new interactive
themed areas based on fairies and dinosaurs;
installation of a hoist for disabled children; installing
interactive sound systems on the Enchanted Walk;
new activity panels with things that can be turned,
touched, make noise, etc; creation of a raised sandpit
for wheelchair users; animal handling building to allow
animal petting in adverse weather and shelter for
school groups; and the development of a new toilet
block at bottom of site.
Those contributing to the crowdfunding campaign will
receive a range of rewards and incentives that are not
available to anyone else. Nick explains: “These include
branded gifts, unique farm visits, animal keeper
experiences, a VIP party, opportunities to immortalise
yourself on the sensory trail and lifetime passes with
exciting perks. It will be a once in a lifetime opportunity
to support Fairytale Farm and receive something that
money can’t buy.”
Nick adds: “We can’t take Fairytale Farm to the
next level without this funding. £91,500 means we
can introduce these important new attractions and
facilities that will significantly improve our visitors’
experience. We have set up a special web page for our
crowdfunding campaign: www.fundthefairytale.com,
where people can sign up to receive more information
and be part of this fantastic campaign.”
Address: Fairytale Farm, Southcombe, Chipping Norton,
Oxfordshire, OX7 5QH Tel: 01608 238014
Visit The Website:
www.fairytalefarm.co.uk | www.fundthefairytale.com
10th-13th February
South Hill Park present Sweeney Todd: The Demon
Barber of Fleet Street
How about a shave?
Benjamin Barker was a kind and loving father with nothing but love in his
heart until a jealous judge punishes him for a crime he did not commit and
sends him off to Australia.
Barker returns as the transformed Sweeney Todd. Todd has an insatiable
hunger for revenge against those who separated him from his wife and
child… not even Mrs Lovett’s meat pies can curb his appetite!
A blood-thirsty tale of revenge, love, loss, tragedy and more fresh meat
than Mrs Lovett could ever hope for.
This musical hardly pauses for breath as Todd’s need for revenge spirals
wildly out of control.
Address: Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park,
Ringmead,
RG12 7PA
Tel: 01344 484123
Visit The Website:
www.southhillpark.org.uk
9
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CALENDAR February-March 2016
‘Capability’ Brown at
Blenheim Palace
Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown changed the face of
eighteenth century England, designing country
estates and mansions, moving hills and making
flowing lakes and serpentine rivers, a magical world
of green.
2016 is the 300th anniversary of ‘Capability’ Brown’s
birth and to commemorate the year we will be joining
a nationwide celebration.
Blenheim Palace was one of Brown’s finest examples
of his work and, in 1763, he transformed Blenheim
Palace’s landscaped parkland which, although
appearing natural, is ‘contrived to pleasing effect’.
We will be host to a range of commemorative
activities across 2016 to honour the life and work of
‘Capability’ Brown. The Palace will reopen in 2016
with a new temporary exhibition that will share his
work at Blenheim Palace across the 11 years he
was commissioned (1763-1774) through detailed
accounts of how he designed and executed such
a masterpiece through photography, drawings,
equipment and costumes, with a number of neverbefore-seen elements. The exhibition will run from
13th February until 2nd May.
Palace. A group of local contemporary painters also
will have work displayed, including Tim Scott Bolton’s
interpretation of Brown’s vision. The artists looked
at the landscape of Brown 300 years on from his
original design, and captured similar view points as
other artists have done in the past, showing their own
unique style and response to the landscape.
The exhibition is in partnership with The
Embroiderers Guild and will feature stunning
hand-made pieces by some of the Guild’s talented
members, depicting the parkland here at Blenheim
Address: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock,
Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP
Tel: 01993 810530
Visit The Website: www.blenheimpalace.com
Visitors can also enjoy tours of the park, a selfguided trail of discovery looking at vistas and views
before and after Brown’s work, and a number of talks
and other visitor experiences throughout the year.
Visit your local heritage
railway this Spring!
February Half Term: Steaming Days
Sunday 14th, Wednesday 17th
& Sunday 21st February
Easter Bank Holiday:
Day Out with Thomas™
Friday 25th-Monday 28th March
Easter Holidays: Steaming days
Wednesday 30th March
Sunday 3rd April
Wednesday 6th April
Sunday 10th April
And every Sunday until the end of October!
© 2016 Gullane (Thomas) Limited
© 2016 HIT Entertainment Limited
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Station Road, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY
Tel: 01296 655720 www.bucksrailcentre.org
10
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on Facebook
February-March 2016 CALENDAR
Mother’s Day Tea
Sunday 6th March 2016
£20 per person
Open between 12:30pm - 4.00pm
Treat mum to an indulgent afternoon at Missenden
Abbey for high tea and homemade sweet treats.
(all featured in the Missenden Abbey cook book!)
Tom Wakeley will be on the piano for you to enjoy
some elegant music throughout the afternoon.
To book your place, please contact us on
01494 866811 or head over to our website at
www.missendenabbey.co.uk.
Great Missenden | Bucks | HP16 0BD
13th February 2016-1st January 2017
Shakespeare in Windsor Castle Royal Library
Marking the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare, this display draws on
material in the Royal Library, including works of Shakespeare collected by the royal family,
accounts of performances at Windsor Castle, and art by members of the royal family inspired by
Shakespeare’s plays.
It will examine aspects of the playwright’s life, work and influence, and celebrate his longstanding
connection with Windsor and the royal court.
Address: Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 1NJ
Tel: 020 7766 7304
Visit The Website: www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/windsorcastle
11
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CALENDAR February-March 2016
16th-20th February
17th February
Inter Church Productions
presents Sister Act at
Lord Williams’s Upper School
A giant peach of a story
with Sandra Agard at The
Roald Dahl Museum
Inter Church Productions, in its inimitable all singing,
all dancing, all action style, presents the musical
of Sister Act. With a cast and crew drawn from
all denominations – and none – and fresh from
the triumph that was Jesus Christ Superstar, the
team from Inter Church Productions will be at Lord
Williams’s Upper School between the 16th and 20th
February to bring you this wonderful show.
For 5+ years: a wondrous hour
with our Centenary Storyteller in
Residence, Sandra Agard. Sandra
has been enthusing audiences
for years with a love of books and stories with her
dynamic, hilarious and heartfelt style. Climb on
board the giant peach and hear tales from all around
the world, tales of friendship, creepy crawlies
and journeys.
Based on the 1992 film of the same name, Sister
Act tells the story of aspiring disco diva Deloris Van
Cartier. Trying to work her way to the top in 1970s
Philadelphia, Deloris falls in love with a very tough—
and very married—gangster boyfriend named Curtis
and when Deloris witnesses him commit a murder
she ends up in hiding, on police orders, in a convent
whose parish has fallen on hard times. Though the
sequin-free lifestyle doesn’t agree with her, Deloris
finds her calling, working with the choir, and breathes
new life into the dusty convent while discovering a
sisterhood she’s never had before.
7.45pm with additional performance on 20th at 3pm
Tickets: Standard £13.00/£11.50, Concessions
(Over 65s and Under 14s) £11.50/£10.00
Address: Lord Williams’s Upper School, Oxford Road,
Thame, Oxon, OX9 2AQ
Visit The Website: www.thelittleboxoffice.com
www.interchurchproductions.com
£3 per person (adults and children) plus Museum
entry
Under 8s will need to be accompanied into the
workshop by an adult, all adults and children in the
room will need to pay to attend.
We recommend pre-booking as workshops can
sell out in advance. Please give us a call on 01494
892192 (booking line open Tuesday-Sunday) to
check availability and to book up until 4.30pm the
day before (we can take Museum admission at
the same time). Any unsold workshop tickets will
be sold on a first come, first served basis on the
day.11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm
Address: 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden,
Buckinghamshire, HP16 0AL
Tel: 01494 892192
Visit The Website: www.roalddahl.com
Try something NEW
in 2016
Experience the purest most natural way to fly
Discover Gliding
C
12
Trial Lessons
n Courses
n PPL Conversions
n Group Events
n
2 &5 Day Weekday Courses
Call office for course dates and details
t 01494 442501
www.bookergliding.co.uk
Booker Gliding Club
Wycombe Air Park Marlow Bucks SL7 3DP
The Roald Dahl Museum EDITS
THE ROALD DAHL MUSEUM
2016 marks 100 years since
Roald Dahl’s birth and the
Museum will be celebrating
in style. They’ll be taking a
year-long journey exploring
the master storyteller’s life
and books, with themed
activity weeks and weekends
throughout the year.
The Museum will be focusing on each
of Roald Dahl’s best-loved stories
through the year, beginning with his
first book for children James and
the Giant Peach in February half term. Join in with
a Peach Party, make James’ Peachy Pots and Meet
the Minibeasts with The Natural World Experience.
You’ll also get the chance to meet the Museum’s
Centenary Storyteller in Residence, Sandra Agard,
who’ll be sharing stories of friendship, creepy crawlies
and journeys from around the world. Take a look at
roalddahl.com/museum for full details including
dates, times and prices.
Other themed highlights will include Charlie and
the Chocolate Factory and George’s Marvellous
Medicine at Easter, Matilda
in May half term, The BFG
over the summer and The
Witches at Halloween,
right through to his last
published book The Minpins in December.
Themed activities will include storytelling and crafts,
author visits, behind-the-scenes archive tours, clue
trails and special events, with extra special birthday
celebrations on Roald Dahl Day on Saturday 17
September involving the whole village.
Peach
es and the Giant
Join us for a Jam
...
bruary half-term
of a week this Fe
...and celebrate Roald Dahl’s 100th
birthday with us throughout 2016
Join us every weekend for storytelling, trails and crafts!
For full events listings see roalddahl.com/museum.
Museum admission applies, some workshops incur an additional cost.
Call 01494 892192 to book. 81-83 High Street Great Missenden Bucks HP16 0AL
13
E
INNOVATIVE CUTTING &
CREATIVE COLOURING
Brothers – Thame • 16 Buttermarket, Thame OX9 3EP Tel: 01844 217365
Brothers - Oxford • 57 The High Street, Oxford OX1 4AS Tel: 01865 250 696
Brothers - Marlow • 68 West Street, Marlow SL7 2BP Tel: 01628 484 717
14
Book Online
www.brotherssalons.co.uk
www.brothers-uk.com
Recruiting now at all 3 salons Stylists, Technicians, Apprentices.
February-March 2016 CALENDAR
17th February
Rapunzel at the Kenton Theatre,
Henley-on-Thames
Presented by Immersion Theatre
From the Emmy Award-winning team behind the
mega-hit television series, Friends, comes Rapunzel,
an exciting musical perfect for all the family!
A familiar tale with a fantastic new spin, it has all the
charm you’d expect from the minds that have been
making the world laugh non-stop for more than two
decades.
Following their visit last spring with Wind in the
Willows, Immersion Theatre are thrilled to return
with the UK Premiere of this witty, tongue-in-cheek
retelling of a perennial favourite which gives us a
possessive mother who happens to be a witch, a
tentative young man who happens to be a prince and
a strong-willed but naïve young girl with the longest
hair you’re ever likely to come across!
Forced to live alone with nothing but her hair and
her witch (literally) of a mother, Rapunzel dreams of
seeing the outside world when a young prince and
his trusty valet come across her tower. Before the
Prince and Rapunzel can have their “happily ever
after”, however, they’re going to have to face the
witch’s wrath and some hilarious obstacles in this
unique fairy tale!
20th February
Mark Steel: Who Do I Think I Am?
at The Kenton Theatre,
Henley-on-Thames
It never really bothered me that I’d never met
my mum. It never occurred to me I needed to
meet her to ‘find out who I was’, as it didn’t
seem likely I’d discover I was someone different
to who I thought I was. Could it turn out I was
three stone lighter than I thought, or I spoke
Italian or supported Arsenal or had a fear of
Liquorice Allsorts?
But after the birth of my own son, I realised it’s
quite an event to have a child, and she may well
remember giving birth to me, and maybe even
the adoption.
See Mark Steel in his newest stand up show,
a surprising and enthralling story told with
aplomb.
Adults £12, Children £10, Family £40
Previously, Mark has written and presented
Mark Steel’s in Town on BBC Radio 4 and
toured it live around the UK. Mark has presented
the BAFTA nominated Mark Steel Lectures for
BBC2, is a regular on BBC One’s Have I Got
News For You and Radio 4’s Newsquiz. He’s
also appeared on BBC2’s QI and Room 101.
Mark has also written several, acclaimed books,
including: Reasons To Be Cheerful and What’s
Going On and he writes a weekly column for
The Independent for which he won Columnist of
the Year at the Press Awards in 2015.
Performance 90 minutes including interval
All tickets: £15
With a book and lyrics by the creators of the hit
television show Friends, rest assured this fairy tale
isn’t going to be business as usual!
Address:
Kenton Theatre,
New Street,
Henley-on-Thames,
RG9 2BP
Tel: 01491 575698
Visit The Website: www.
kentontheatre.co.uk
Suitable: 14+ (Parental Guidance) Likely to be
swearing and adult content
Performance: 120 minutes including interval
Reselling of tickets will result in cancellation
of booking
Address: Kenton Theatre, New Street,
Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP
Tel: 01491 575698
Visit The Website: www.kentontheatre.co.uk
15
C
E
EDITS Newbury Spring Festival
Newbury Spring
Festival 2016
Tickets go on sale on 1st March for the
Newbury Spring Festival 2016. 50 concerts
and performances will take place at
venues in and around Newbury from 7th to
21st May.
The opening night in St Nicholas Church is
an exciting programme of Elgar and Vaughan
Williams played by the City of Birmingham
Symphony Orchestra conducted by John
Wilson. Celebrated singer Clare Teal and
her ‘Mini Big Band’ trio bring a spectacular
opening night to the Corn Exchange with
some hits from the Great American Songbook.
Other highlights include performances by
Benjamin Grosvenor, Tenebrae, Stile Antico,
the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, the
Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers and the beautiful
Anoushka Shankar.
Tickets available from
1st March 2016
www.newburyspringfestival.org.uk
box office 0845 5218 218
16
February-March 2016 CALENDAR
29th February-5th March
Derren Brown:
Miracle at Wycombe Swan
Derren Brown © Featureflash/Shutterstock.com
The multi-award winning acknowledged master of
psychological illusion is back on tour in 2016 with a
brand new one-man show, Derren Brown: Miracle.
Having confessed that performing live on stage gives
him the greatest pleasure, Derren is, once again,
looking forward to the challenge that comes with
being acknowledged as one of the world’s most
renowned live performers; a dark manipulator of
magic and mind control.
This will be Derren’s seventh show since 2003. Since
then he has toured every year and been watched by
an estimated audience of over one and a half million
people. He has won two prestigious Olivier Awards,
for Something Wicked This Way Comes (2006)
and SvengalI (2012). His last show, Infamous, was
universally acclaimed by critics and audience alike.
Written by Andy Nyman, Andrew O’Connor
& Derren Brown
Directed by Andy Nyman & Andrew O’Connor
Address: Wycombe Swan, St. Mary Street,
High Wycombe, HP11 2XE
Tel: 01494 512000
Visit The Website: www.wycombeswan.co.uk
Discover
WINDSOR
& ROYAL BOROUGH MUSEUM
Discover our local history museum and hear
stories of people who lived and worked in the
Royal Borough.
Follow our audio-visual tour, try our
costumes, pillory and fun activities.
Find out more by calling:
01628 685686
or find us at:
www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/museum.htm
17
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CALENDAR February-March 2016
11th-12th March
Tell Me On A Sunday
at Wyvern Theatre
Jodie Prenger now steps into Andrew Lloyd Webber
and Don Black’s classic musical, Tell Me On A
Sunday.
Tell Me On A Sunday charts the romantic
misadventures of a young English girl in New York
in the heady days of the 1980’s. Brimming with
optimism, she seeks success and love. But as she
weaves her way through the maze of the city and
her own anxieties, frustrations and heartaches she
begins to wonder whether she’s been looking for love
in all the wrong places. This iconic musical, with a
wonderful original score, features the chart-topping
Take That Look Off Your Face and title track Tell Me
on A Sunday.
Originally conceived for television, Tell Me On A
Sunday has been performed by many legendary
musical theatre stars including Marti Webb and Sarah
Brightman. This new 2016 production directed by
Paul Foster includes an intimate post-show chat with
Jodie about life, love and playing the role of Emma.
Address: Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon,
Wiltshire, SN1 1QN
Tel: 01793 524481
Visit The Website: www.swindontheatres.co.uk
7th-12th March
Private Lives at Aylesbury
Waterside Theatre
A major new production of Noel Coward’s best loved
and multi-award winning comedy.
This glittering
production of one
of the greatest
plays of all time,
includes Olivier
Award nominated
TV and stage star
Tom Chambers
(star of Top Hat
the musical and
Strictly Come
Dancing winner)
as the lovable
and charming
Elyot and Laura
Rogers (Tipping
the Velvet) as the
unconventional and
vivacious Amanda.
Also starring Charlotte Ritchie (Call the Midwife,
Fresh Meat and Siblings) and Richard Teverson
(Downton Abbey).
Tom Chambers © Featureflash/Shutterstock.com
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An elegant evening of wit and glamour that bubbles
with sex and promises to be a deliciously delectable
and unforgettable classic.
Address: Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street,
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG
Tel: 0844 871 7607
Visit The Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury
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18th & 19th March
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
Are Dead at Oxford Playhouse
Questions, confusion and comedy abound
as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Hamlet’s
childhood friends, are summoned to Elsinore.
Join them as they try to find their way through
(and their place within) the plot of Hamlet, an
offstage world and some big philosophical
questions.
Commemorating 400 years since Shakespeare’s
death and 50 years since the play’s first
performance, Oxford Playhouse’s 17|25 Young
Company present an ensemble version of Tom
Stoppard’s comic masterpiece. Rosencrantz and
Guildenstern Are Dead was Stoppard’s debut,
written when he was a student in Oxford and
catapulting him into a career as one of Britain’s
most loved playwrights.
An Oxford Playhouse production
By Tom Stoppard
Directed by Jo Noble
18th March, 8.00pm
19th March, 2.30pm & 7.30pm
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford,
OX1 2LW
Tickets £15, Discounts available, a limited
number of £5 tickets for under 18s and OPT In!
members
01865 305305 | www.oxfordplayhouse.com
in person at Oxford Playhouse Box Office
February-March 2016 CALENDAR
6th-10th April
Oliver! at South Hill Park
Watch a classic story come to life before your
very eyes this Easter, as we present the much
loved Lionel Bart musical Oliver!, based on the
famous tale by Charles Dickens.
Set amidst the dark, sooty alleyways of
Victorian London, follow the journey of
a young orphan who faces the trials and
tribulations suffered by the lower classes by
simply asking for more.
Join the Artful Dodger, Nancy, Fagin and his
urchins who take Oliver under their wing,
teaching him the ways of all scallywags and
ragamuffins!
Will Oliver ever find a loving family?
Oliver! is a must see show for grown-ups and
all the little urchins out there!
If you have a little star of your own at home,
why not enrol them in the Oliver Easter School
and watch them perform in Oliver! alongside
the adult cast.
2pm and 7pm.
Price: £18, Conc £17, Members
£16, Family £52, Children £15
Why not relax in our Atrium
Restaurant before the show and
enjoy a two course meal, dinner/
theatre ticket price: £33pp.
Address: Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Ringmead, RG12 7PA
Tel: 01344 484123
Visit The Website: www.southhillpark.org.uk/oliver
facebook.com/southhillparkartscentre
@southhillpark
Phil & Jean welcome you
THE WHITE HART Winkfield
A Stylish 16th Century Pub and Restaurant directly opposite St Mary’s Church
This historic property was once a parish courthouse, still retaining a few original features.
• Recently extensively refurbished
• Large bar & restaurant dining
• Open Noon-11pm Mon-Sat
& Sunday 7pm
• Food Served 12-2.30
& 6-9 Sunday 12-3.30
• Large garden, car park
• Ideal venue for events
& weddings
• Quiz night – Wednesdays 8.30pm
• Real Ales – Rebellion IPA
& Sharps Doombar
• Fish & Chips Special on Fridays
The White Hart Church Road Winkfield Nr Ascot. SL4 4SE
01344 882415 www.thewhitehartwinkfield.co.uk
thewhitehartwinkfield@outlook.com
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HOLIDAY CAMPS ACROSS BUCKS AND BERKS
MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM TO 6PM - ACTIVITIES FOR AGES 4 - 14
EASTER • MAY • SUMMER
01235 467300 • WWW.SUPERCAMPS.CO.UK
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Super Camps EDITS
De-stressing
the holidays
Experts are increasingly pointing the finger
at the trappings of modern life to explain the
epidemic of stress affecting our children.
Computers, mobiles – too much exposure can
scramble the tender brains of children and create
anxiety and depression. Even school holidays are to
be dreaded as youngsters lose contact with school
friends and turn to their devices to cope with the
boredom of days that seem to stretch for ever.
At Super Camps, rediscovering the fun of childhood
will always be a guiding mantra. The company hires
schools and turns them into playhouses, encouraging
children of all ages to make new friends and enjoy
the wonder of discovery and exploration. Six actionpacked daily activities that range from swimming to
Quad biking to Archery are all included in the price,
but so too is the freedom to choose.
Prefer to get stuck into a clay-modelling session or
go on a scavenger hunt – or relax on a beanbag with
new chums and a good book? Or organise a 5 a-side
football game, girls and boys together? That’s OK by
us – and good for your child too. Allowing children to
decide the tempo of the day’s activities is regarded by
child development experts as essential to childhood
fulfilment – and certainly adds to the fun at Super
Camps.
Word-games, mosaic-making, body-art – the
opportunities for self-expression – and hilarity – are
endless, as are the opportunities to play classic British
sports like tennis and cricket – or, for children aged 7
and over, enjoy bushcraft or cooking lessons.
As leader in its field in the UK, Super Camps runs at
venues across the country, putting different activities
for children aged 4-14 each day, bookable daily or
weekly. Energetic, friendly staff put children through
their paces and ensure all ages and abilities bond
together as they learn and explore with friends new
and old.
All we ask is that you pack a healthy lunch – and
visit www.supercamps.co.uk now to book for Easter,
half-term or Summer camps. Remember – it’s all
about de-stressing the holidays. Once your child has
rediscovered fun at Super Camps, holiday stress will
be a thing of the past.
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Valentines Packages
at Donnington Grove
Celebrate and treat your loved one to a three course romantic
valentines dinner for just £27 per person.
Our chef has lovingly created a special menu that will include
some extra special treats between courses.
Preferential room rates available for diners that wish to stay
overnight and enjoy a relaxed breakfast the following day
from only £98 bb per room.
Available 12th, 13th & 14th February
Tel: 01635 581000
Grove Road, Newbury RG14 2LA
www.donnington-grove.com
easter Family Package
£199 (2 adults & 2 children)
Over 12s pay £30 for meals
Valentine’s Day:
Indulge in a romantic 4 course
Italian meal for 2
only £79 per couple.
Matched wines are also available at £20 per person.
Why not stay the night?
For only £179 per couple
enjoy our 4 course meal and a
relaxing night in one of our
Classic bedrooms.
Available Friday 12th- Sunday 14th February
Saturday night buffet for all the family, overnight accommodation in our Executive family bedrooms, Breakfast on
Easter Sunday, 3 course Sunday lunch, Easter egg hunt.
easter reFresh Package
£219 (2 adults)
Easter afternoon tea, overnight accommodation in our
Classic bedrooms, Breakfast on Easter Sunday, 3 course
Sunday lunch, ½ hour spa treatment per person
easter sunDay lunch
£30 per adult, £15 per child
Celebrate Easter Sunday with all the family at Burnham
Beeches Hotel. Includes 3 Course Sunday Lunch with
Tea, Coffee and Petit-fours, Easter Egg Hunt
BURNHAM BEECHES HOTEL Grove Road, Burnham SL1 8DP
Phone 016 2842 9955 Email: meetings.burnhambeeches@corushotels.com www.corushotels.com/burnham
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Woburn Abbey EDITS
DISCOVER THE
SPLENDOUR AND HISTORY
of Woburn Abbey and Gardens
One of Bedfordshire’s top attractions re-opens on 18th March for the summer season.
A house filled with history, Woburn Abbey is the
family home of the 15th Duke and Duchess of
Bedford. The Earls and Dukes of Bedford and
their families have been at the centre of social and
political events for almost 400 years.
Take your time to learn more about their lives and
discover great tales of imprisonment, beheadings,
love affairs, Royal Pardons, Prime Ministers, Grand
Tours, political reforms, Royal state visits and much
more.
Within the Abbey there are 22 rooms to explore over
3 floors, including the State Rooms, porcelain displays
in the Crypt and Gold and Silver Vaults. We are proud
of our world renowned art collection with more
than 250 paintings including works by Rembrandt,
Reynolds and Van Dyck. One of the highlights is
the largest private collection of Venetian views by
Canaletto in one room.
Your visit is not complete without a stroll through
the beautiful, award-winning gardens. When the 6th
Duke inherited the Abbey he commissioned Humphry
Repton, the famous landscape gardener, to create
designs for enhancing the gardens and deer park. Two
hundred years later, many of the features you will find
in the gardens are based on Repton’s designs, many
of which have been restored to their former glory. This
time of year, the gardens are awash with colour as
beautiful spring flowers are in full bloom.
THE HOME OF AFTERNOON TEA
We have a past Duchess of Bedford to thank for
popularising this quintessential English tradition.
Anna-Maria, wife of the 7th Duke, Duchess of Bedford
in the 1830s, is credited with first making ‘Afternoon
Tea’ into a formal social occasion. A Lady-in-Waiting
to Queen Victoria, Anna Maria began the custom of
taking afternoon tea at around 5.00pm and it became
fashionable at the Royal Palaces and at Woburn
Abbey where she entertained her friends.
INDULGE IN A TASTE OF HISTORY
The Duchess Tearoom offers a selection of hot and
cold beverages and a choice of home-made cakes
and biscuits and freshly prepared meals and snacks.
Please telephone 01525 290333 to book your
afternoon tea.
www.woburnabbey.co.uk
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Mother’s Day Luncheon
at Donnington Grove
Sunday 6th March 2016
Treat your mother to a two or three course lunch
and let us do the cooking.
Includes a complimentary welcome drink on arrival
and an extra special gift for all mothers dining.
2 Course Meal - £23 • 3 Course Meal - £27
Tel: 01635 581000
Grove Road, Newbury RG14 2LA
www.donnington-grove.com
OxFOrdShirE iNN hOtEL
Sunday Carvery Deals
£7.95 – One Course, £10.95 Two Courses, £13.95, Three Courses
Now taking bookings for Valentines Weekend 13th and 14th February,
Mothering Sunday Lunch 6th March and Easter weekend
25th March to 28th March
Also available for weddings , functions and corporate events
Oxfordshire inn hotel, heathfield Village, Bletchingdon, Oxford, Ox5 3dx
tel: 01869 351444 reservations: staff@oxfordshireinn.co.uk www.oxfordshireinnhotel.co.uk
Ample free parking • Wifi available • We look forward to seeing you very soon
Located just 4 miles from Oxford City centre, one minute form the main A34 and just 3 miles from junction 9 of the M40
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Romance
AT BOULTERS
There can be few
locations in the
Home Counties
and Greater
London whose
surroundings
and views are as
stunning as those
found on Boulters
Lock Island.
Book now for Valentines Day
A four course menu has been constructed by our Head Chef (Daniel Woodhouse) for your
enjoyment on Valentines Day. We will even throw in a glass of Prosecco to get you started!
Now is a great opportunity to win points with the other half so get in whilst you still can.
Weddings
With two offerings of a formal dining room in our ground floor
‘Riverside Brasserie’ or a relaxed event up in our ‘Terrace Bar’, Boulters
provides all of the best components for a truly magical wedding day.
Boulters Restaurant and Bar
Boulters Lock Island
Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 8PE
T 01628 621291
E enquiries@boultersrestaurant.co.uk
www.boultersrestaurant.co.uk
Weddings EDITS
The Power of Love
For those on the verge of plunging into the greatest – and
most joyous – life choice of all time, discover here the whole
A-to-Z for planning your perfect wedding.
Wedding Venues:
The World’s Best
The average cost of a wedding in the UK is around £20,000, with the reception venue alone costing
an eye-watering £4,189 alone. Budgeting for a wedding is a stressful and time-consuming task, so
I’m sure most couples fantasize about the possibilities of a money-no-object wedding. If you had
an unlimited budget for your ceremony, where would you hold it? You could do a lot worse than the
venues below, which hold the dubious title of the priciest in the world. We can but dream…
OBEROI UDAIVILAS
Situated at the glorious destination of Udaipur in
western India, Oberoi Udaivilas is often rated as the
best hotel in Asia. With stunning views over Lake
Pichola and spread over fifty acres (including an on-site
wildlife sanctuary), venue hire at the hotel can reach
heights of £150,000.
CHATEAU DE VAUX-LE-VICOMTE
A baroque French chateau located in Maincy, around
40 miles south of Paris, Vaux-le-Vicomte is an
incomparable venue for a fairytale castle wedding.
The ornate, 17th century palace is the largest privately
owned estate of its kind in France, and packages can
include a stunning display of 2,000 individually-lit
candles and of course, the best in French food and
wine. Weddings cost at least £100,000.
LITTLE PALM ISLAND
On a private island in the Florida Keys, this luxurious
resort can only be accessed by sea-plane or by boat.
If you’re looking for a beach wedding (and your bank
account can handle the abuse) then you can’t really
do much better, with packages that include arrival
amenities such as travel to the island via private motor
yacht with inclusive Cristal champagne and lobster
platter. Packages start at around £110,000.
CASTELLO ODESCALCHI
With 500 years of history in the half and
gardens of this magnificent Italian castle,
it’s no wonder that previous clients for
weddings have included Tom Cruise and
Katie Holmes. Set on the shores of Lake
Bracciano, the castle can cater for events
of up to a thousand people, and boasts
packages including catering from the most
esteemed and exclusive Italian chefs.
Rental can set you back up to £310,000.
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EDITS Weddings
Leap Day proposals:
Where do they come from?
Leap Day, on February 29th, has been a day of traditions, folklore and superstitions ever since Leap Years
were first introduced by Julius Ceasar over 2000 years ago. Traditionally, this was the day when it was
acceptable for a woman to propose to a man.
According to an old Irish legend, or possibly history, St
Brigid struck a deal with St Patrick to allow women to
propose to men – and not just the other way around
– every four years. This was believed to have been
introduced to balance the traditional roles of men and
women in a similar way to how Leap Day balances
the calendar.
In some places, Leap Day has been known as
“Bachelors’ Day” for the same reason. A man was
expected to pay a penalty, such as a gown or money,
if he refused a marriage proposal from a woman on
Leap Day. In many European countries, especially in
the upper classes of society, tradition dictates that
any man who refuses a woman’s proposal on February
29 has to buy her 12 pairs of gloves. The intention
is that the woman can wear the gloves to hide the
embarrassment of not having an engagement ring.
During the middle ages there were laws governing
this tradition.
Rules of courtship are quite different these days
(and much less strict), but long ago women who
were hoping to marry had to wait for their beaus to
propose. The tradition of February 29th, however,
was not observed in England until much later.
Since the day had no legal status, formal traditions
did not apply. Consequently, women who were not
content to wait for a proposal took advantage of this
anomaly and popped the question themselves. It
was also thought that since leap year corrected the
discrepancy between the calendar year (365 days)
and the time it takes for the earth to complete one
orbit of the sun (365 days and 6 hours), it was an
opportunity for women to correct a tradition that was
one-sided and unfair. Go ladies of yore!
d
The former 16th Century Coaching Inn situated only 12 miles from
Oxford is a superb one-stop wedding location.
Sympathetically updated, the George retains its character and
charm, giving it an unrivalled atmosphere for every occasion.
The Castle gardens, behind the hotel, make a great backdrop for
your photographs. Plus our experienced wedding organisers will
work with you to ensure everything goes to plan. You can rely on
the George to make your wedding dream come true.
OUR FACILITIES INCLUDE:
Events For Up To 150 Guests • Licenced For Civil Ceremonies
Choice Of Wedding Packages • Extensive Menu Selection
39 Exquisite Bedrooms • Ample Free Car Parking
Wedding dreams
are made of t
his!
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GEORGE HOTEL High Street, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 0BS
Tel: 01491 836665 • Fax: 01491 825359
Email: info@george-hotel-wallingford.com
Weddings EDITS
The 4 Cs of Engagement
Ring Diamonds
When thinking about your choice of engagement ring, there are a few variables
to consider which can affect the price and quality of the diamond. The ‘four Cs’
are a way of helping you understand the differences in diamond quality.
CLARITY
Almost all diamonds contain natural flaws known as ‘inclusions’. The
fewer inclusions a diamond has, the more valuable it will be. Usually,
inclusions are impossible to detect with the naked eye, so they are
unlikely to affect the appearance of your engagement ring.
COLOUR
Diamonds tend to be colourless, although they might have shades
of yellow or brown. Diamonds that are entirely colourless are usually
considered more desirable than one which is slightly yellow. Diamond
colour is rated from D to Z: a diamond which is graded D is completely
colourless, whereas one graded Z has a yellow tint.
CUT
The cut of a diamond refers to the shape, symmetry, proportions and
angles of the stone. A well cut diamond will make good use of light,
allowing it to be dispersed and reflected from one facet to another. To
find the perfect diamond, study the stone’s brilliance and beauty and
spend time deciding which one is right one for you.
CARAT
Contrary to popular belief,
carats are a measure of
a diamond’s weight, not
size. A diamond with a
greater carat will increase
its value due to rarity but
a diamond can often look
larger than its weight
due to differences in cut
and set. If you opt for a
diamond cluster ring, the
carat refers to the total
weight of all the stones
together.
The Tythe Barn
YOUR WEDDING DAY, YOUR DREAM
We love weddings
The Tythe Barn is a beautiful 14th Century stone and thatch structure that has been lovingly restored.
Our stylish venue combines Vintage with Contemporary, offering a bespoke and professional service.
The Tythe Barn, Launton, Oxfordshire | www.thetythebarn.co.uk | 01869 321442
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Wedding flowers
EDITS Weddings
Choosing wedding flowers that
fit your style and colour palette
isn’t always easy, especially if
you don’t know a dahlia from
a daisy. Here’s everything you
need to know about the most
popular wedding flowers.
ALSTROEMERIA
These flowers have small, bright blooms that grow in
clusters and often have freckled petals. They’re best
used as a backdrop to primary flowers (but make a
lovely and cost-effective bouquet).
Season: year-round
Colours: white, yellow, orange, pink, red, lavender,
purple, flecked
AMARYLLIS
Brides desiring maximum impact may choose this
impressive flower, which features two to five large,
trumpet-shaped blossoms that open in succession at
the top of its extra-long stalk. Grown from a bulb, the
amaryllis originated in the tropical rainforests of Africa
and South America and is now available in white, pale
yellow, pale green, pink, salmon, and red. Very rare
and expensive, these flowers are long-lasting and
offer a lot of drama with just a few stems.
Season: November-April
Colours: white, yellow, green, pink, red, burgundy
an undiscovered secret in the heart of oxford
the Oxford Union
make the legend yours
Call 07507 683129 / 01865 241353
Email: events@oxford-union.org
www.oxford-union.org
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Weddings EDITS
DAFFODIL
Shakespeare and Wordsworth both created
rhapsodies about this humble bulb flower. Perhaps
it is so well liked because its merry yellow bloom is
one of the first to appear after winter’s frost subsides.
The daffodil (and members of its family, including the
narcissus and the jonquil) is a flower of true variety:
blooms can be single or multiple, with large or small
cups, in solid colors or in combinations of white and
yellow with touches of orange.
Season: November-April
Colours: white, yellow, apricot, orange
SUNFLOWER
The head of the sunflower follows the sun as it
moves across the sky, a trait that undoubtedly
inspired its symbolism: “adoration” and
“loyalty.” Bold and flashy, with ray-like
petals and disk-shaped dark centres,
the sunflower is most at home at
informal weddings. It comes in warm
colours, from golden yellow to deep
reddish brown.
Season: May-November,
peak in summer
Colours: pale lemon, deep gold, orange,
russet, brown
STEPHANOTIS
The name stephanotis means “marital
happiness,” making the flower an
obvious choice for weddings. The
star-shaped, waxy florets grow
on a flowering vine; each must be
individually wired or placed onto a
special holder before it can be used in
a bouquet or boutonniere.
Season: year-round
Colours: white
Valentine’s Day
at The Oxfordshire Hotel & Golf Club
Valentine’s Day Dinner
13th & 14th February
£45 pp includes 4 course
dinner with a glass of
Prosecco.
Valentine’s Package
£259 per couple Saturday 13th February
and £199 per couple Sunday 14th February.
Includes accommodation in an Executive Room
with breakfast, 4 course meal and a glass of
Prosecco plus full use of the spa facilities.
Valentine’s Spa Package Special!
£349 per couple Saturday 13th February
and £279 per couple Sunday 14th February.
Includes accommodation in an Executive Room with
breakfast, 4 course meal, a glass of Prosecco, full use
of the spa facilities and 1 x spa treatment per person
from a choice of: Full body massage, Eco Chic Organic
Facial, Signature Indonesian Manicure or Signature
Himalayan Pedicure.
The Oxfordshire, Rycote Lane, Milton Common, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX9 2PU
Contact 01844 278300 or email reservations@theoxfordshire.com
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MAKE YOUR DREAM WEDDING A REALITY…
OUR STUNNING GEORGIAN COUNTRY HOUSE WITH LUXURIOUS
BRIDAL SUITE AND BEDROOMS BECOMES EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
FOR THE MOST SPECIAL DAY OF YOUR LIFE.
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WWW.HEDSOR.COM INFO@HEDSOR.COM 01628 819050
Weddings EDITS
How to pick a wedding dress
It can seem like a daunting task, but choosing a wedding dress should be great fun and as
stress-free as possible. Taking a few precautions before booking in a fitting can make your
experience far more enjoyable and with minimum hassle.
When it comes to accessories, less is more
The dress will dictate how much you put on and what
to do with your hair. Bling earrings can dominate,
and a hairstyle can be subtly improved with delicate
adornments. It’s a fine art. Be careful of necklines
and be mindful of how small, well-made jewellery can
have a better effect.
Find out which designers do bridal really well
There have been a lot of changes in bridalwear over
the last decade. Designers now realise that wedding
dresses are more time-consuming than ready-towear clothing and carry far more emotion. But a
wedding dress is the one occasion most women get
to experience made-to-measure dressmaking, and for
that reason a ready-to-wear designer may not have
the kind of expertise needed.
Be realistic about what you can afford
If you have a small budget but want a big dress and
can’t afford the same quality, or workmanship, as a
more expensive gown, it’s not possible to cheat. I
always recommend a smaller dress made from silk
inside out, with every detail beautifully made, rather
than something that looks bigger but cheap. A perfect
fit is more important than anything else.
Get fittings as close to the wedding as possible
A made-to-measure dress has to be ordered four to
five months in advance, so you need to allow that
time. But we suggest fittings as close to the wedding
as possible. Also, don’t try it on too much. Invariably,
women do lose weight before a wedding, so it’s best
not to start fittings until you have arrived at the size
you want to be. Otherwise, dresses have to be pulled
apart and taken in, and that takes time and can ruin
how you feel about the dress.
Listen to your heart, not your mother
A good dressmaker hones in on what the bride wants,
not the mother or the aunt or anyone else. I’ve had
brides in tears because their sister has dismissed a
dress she likes, and you can’t always be sure what
motivates people to decide whether they like a dress.
The shop assistant can’t intervene in all of that, so the
bride should have support whispered in her ear by the
shop, reminding her that it’s her day and it’s about
what she wants.
henley tOWn hall
Henley Town Hall is an ideal town centre venue for civil ceremonies
positioned in Market Place close to the two main car parks.
Standing out from the surrounding buildings, this iconic Grade 2*
Listed Building was opened in 1901. Four rooms are available according
to the size of your ceremony; the main chambers are panelled in oak
from floor to ceiling. Its main features include a fine fireplace and brass
chandeliers. This room can accommodate 60 people.
A grand marble staircase rises from both sides of a landing to the rectangular Main Hall with a
round-arched ceiling on the second floor. This room can accommodate up to 210 people for the
ceremony or may be used for the reception after the ceremony.
For further details please contact us via
T: 01491 576982 E: enquiries@henleytowncouncil.gov.uk
W: www.henleytowncouncil.gov.uk
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EDITS Weddings
The world’s most extravagant
honeymoon destinations
Hidden coves, a far-flung location, undiscovered deserted isles and unparalleled beauty - these are
what most people look for in a honeymoon destination. The world is huge and there are tons of these
secret corners around, if you know where to look. Forget Cancun, Maui and Venice, these 4 uncommon
honeymoon destinations are loaded with cosy resorts, private bays and incredible natural beauty.
Pre-register
on our website
to win a bottle
of Champagne!
Wedding Fair
Sunday 21st February
11am - 4pm
Browse through a variety of local wedding suppliers
and see Missenden Abbey set up for a ceremony and
a marquee reception. For more info please visit our
website at www.missendenabbey.co.uk.
Free Entry Goody Bag
Live Music Bucks Fizz Canapés
Great Missenden | Bucks | HP16 0BD
t: 01494 866811
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Weddings EDITS
SEYCHELLES
In this exotic Indian Ocean archipelago, expect
turquoise waters similar to that of the Caribbean
Islands, without the flashy resorts and tourists. With
over 100 islands, couples can go island-hopping one
day, forest-trekking through its lush foliage the next
or scuba diving in its deep waters. This is definitely
our top choice for a perfect blend of relaxation and
wildlife-watching.
SURINAME
A country not many has heard of, Suriname is a
slice of South America that is yet to be discovered
by travellers. Perhaps that’s what made this country
an attractive honeymooning destination. As the only
Dutch-speaking country besides Holland, Suriname is
blessed with a bizarre mix of cultural traditions and
colonial architecture. Thanks to a tropical climate,
dense inland forests, this is the best spot for adventure
travellers seeking something different.
LA RÉUNION
This French island, located in the Indian Ocean, is
sprinkled with tropical rainforest, active volcanoes and
endless greenery. The island might be popular among
French tourists, but it is still undiscovered by those
from the rest of the world. Again, for outdoor lovers
who are into hiking, trekking and adventure travel, this
might just be your paradise.
PALAU, MICRONESIA
Another far-flung nation in the Pacific Ocean,
Palau is as exotic as it can get. Rare orchids,
plants and vines embellish the island’s lush
jungle interiors. Palau is considered one of
the world’s best dive locations with pristine
coral reefs and proliferate marine life. It is
also home to the Rock Islands, a unique
phenomenon of 485 jutting limestone islets.
Its jellyfish lake offers an extraordinary
experience like no other.
Add a touch of grandeur to your special day
at South Hill Park Mansion, Bracknell
Our grade II listed, 18th-century mansion and beautifully
restored Italian Gardens are the picture perfect backdrop
www.southhillpark.org.uk/weddings
Contact Sally Little · 01344 413514 · sally.little@southhillpark.org.uk
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Unusual weddings traditions
from around the world
In the UK we have some wedding “etiquettes” or traditions that are truly bizarre. “Something old,
something new, something borrowed, something blue” is a fairly ridiculous custom if you remove the
familiarity, but these rituals from around the world are completely insane to those outside of the culture…
South Korea
In South Korea, once the ceremony has taken place
and often in extremely lavish fashion, friends of the
groom will remove his shoes and socks. After tying a
rope around his ankles, the groom’s friends then beat
the soles of his feet with dried yellow corvina fish. It is
believed that this practice makes the groom stronger
in his marriage and family life.
Mauritania
Traditionally, in Mauritania, obesity is considered
attractive, and the subsequent practice of forcefeeding (‘Leblouh’) girls as young as five is rife as
a result. Older women called “fatteners” force the
would-be bride to consume enormous amounts
in order to make them as attractive as possible to
potential suitors. ‘Leblouh’ stems from the 11th
century idea that being overweight was an indication
of wealth. It has been reported to have made a
significant comeback after a military junta took over
the country in 2008.
Kenya
The Masai people in Kenya are known to partake
in an unusually soggy post-wedding ritual. It is not
uncommon for the father of the bride to spit upon his
daughters head and breasts as she leaves the village
with her new husband. The Masai strongly believe
that by being disrespectful as opposed to praising
them too much, they avoid tempting fate and bringing
bad luck to the marriage.
STOKE PARK
WEDDING
SHOWCASE
Sunday 21st February 2016
Winner of ‘Best 5 Star Venue’
WEDDING DATES AWARDS
An intimate Wedding Showcase, designed to give you an
insight into Stoke Park as a Wedding Venue – whether
you’ve booked your special day here with us already or
have yet to decide, this is the perfect opportunity to see our
beautiful ceremony rooms dressed in all their splendour.
Our experienced Wedding Co-ordinator and Events Team
will be on hand throughout the day to give guided tours
and answer any questions you may have about holding your
special day here with us, at Stoke Park.
Entry from 10:30am until 3pm – there is no entry fee
and no need to book. Appointments will be available
throughout the day with our Wedding and Events
Co-ordinators, please note it is advisable to book these
before the day to avoid disappointment.
Please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator on
01753 717188 or weddings@stokepark.com
Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Bucks SL2 4PG. 35
minutes from London and 7 miles from Heathrow Airport
www.stokepark.com
36SPC_Wedding Showcase Ad_HC Mag_Jan 2016_Half Page.indd 1
25/01/2016 14:17
Weddings at the
Burnham Beeches Hotel
Your vision, your style, your day…
It’s all about YOU!
Burnham Beeches Hotel is ideally located on the border of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.
With extensive grounds and a stunning, newly refurbished wedding suite that can seat up to
120 guests it is the ideal venue for making beautiful memories.
Bespoke packages available and fabulous offers on 2016 weddings.
Contact us at weddings.burnhambeeches@corushotels.com and 01628 429955
37
Newly
engaged?
Then we have a date for your diary!
The Wedding Show returns to Ascot Racecourse this
March and the spectacular catwalk shows are not
only a great source of inspiration and entertainment
- but the show also provides a perfect day out for
you to start planning your big day. It’s also a great
opportunity to bring your mum along to enjoy the
research stage too.
The catwalks combine a showcase of the latest
wedding fashions with music and dancing guaranteed
to put a smile on everyone’s face. Latest bridal
collections will be displayed by boutiques including
Confetti Bridal and The Wedding Warehouse, with
menswear by Slaters and Anthony Blay, among
others. There will be mother-of-the-bride fashions and
occasion-wear on parade too.
And the event is bigger and better than ever this
year with over 90 exhibitors across two floors. Take
your time and stop at the champagne bar to toast
the upcoming celebrations, and enjoy live music
and entertainment as you make your way around the
stands.
38
This is the ultimate day out to start your wedding
planning in true style - it’s the only place that you can
try on dresses, see entertainment first hand, speak
to caterers and florists, plus much more - all under
one roof. And with experts on hand to help you make
the most important decisions for your big day, what
better place to start - being a bride to be just got very
exciting!
Book your tickets online in advance for your chance
to win an all inclusive 7 night honeymoon in Mexico.
Plus, the first hundred brides through the door will
receive a special bag packed with goodies.
One you’ve been to the Wedding Show, all that you’ll
need to do is start practicing your vows!
Ascot Racecourse
March 12th & 13th 2016 with catwalk
shows at 11.30am, 1.15pm and 3pm.
www.theweddingshow.co.uk/ascot
bpcollins.co.uk | 01753 889995
Why a Leap Year
proposal is a
sensible thing
2016 is a Leap Year and one of the most popular traditions
allows for women to propose to their boyfriends on 29 February.
While the Spring is officially the time for romance, setting aside the hearts and
flowers for a moment, there is one very good and practical reason for getting
married - and that’s who inherits your estate in the event of your early demise.
It may not be the most romantic of topics, but
the truth is that many couples who co-habit
simply don’t realise that if the worst happens,
they will have no claim on their loved one’s
goods and chattels.
“Therefore, one half of a couple could find
themselves without a roof over their head or
any money in the bank, while their partner’s
parents or siblings inherit the house and
everything that comes with it.
And, given that statistics show only around
half of young adults today will actually
marry - as opposed to living together it’s an increasing concern.
“If you live together, own property and possibly
even work together, then you must make a will
if you want to ensure each of you is looked
after in the event that one of you dies.
Vicky Johnson, a specialist in wills, trusts
and probate at Buckinghamshire law firm
B P Collins LLP, says: “Even if you have lived
together for many years and consider
yourselves to be married in all but name,
intestacy rules mean that if one of you dies,
it is the closest family who will inherit the
estate, rather than the live-in partner.
“Or, put simply, while it may not be the
most romantic reason for doing so, given
that this is a Leap Year, maybe it’s time to
start looking at those bridal magazines.”
@bpcollinslaw
39
Go beyond your world
HOLIDAY TIME IS PRECIOUS , SPEND YOURS WISELY
PLEASE CONTACT FULL CIRCLE TRAVEL
59 St Mary’s Street, Wallingford, Oxon OX10 0EL
T: 01491 833227
40
•
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www.fulllcircletravel.co.uk
xxxxx EDITS
TAHITI AND
HER ISLANDS
by Peter Holthusen
An Odyssey in French Polynesia
It is sunrise and on the ivory white sand a solitary figure is greeting the dawn. He lifts a
conch shell to his lips and it releases a low cry across the lagoon to the mountain beyond.
Then something moves. As if from nowhere a tiny pink crab appears, scuttling sideways
across the beach. It skims the surface, barely making an impression in the wet sand. And
then they are gone and once more the beach is totally deserted, proof that in a crowded
world there are still some places that remain unspoilt. Welcome to Tahiti and her Islands.
My first journey to Tahiti in 1989 was long and
arduous, for I was heading for Pitcairn Island, some
1,350 miles (2,173 kilometres) east-south-east of the
archipelago, having accepted a commission from
Geographical Magazine, the journal of The Royal
Geographical Society to write a series of feature
articles on the Bicentenary of the infamous ‘Mutiny on
the Bounty’, which took place in these waters shortly
before dawn on the morning of 28 April 1789.
There could scarcely be a corner of the world
further removed in both distance and spirit from the
everyday than these remote South Pacific islands, yet
my passion for islands has compelled me to return
to Tahiti no less than three times, and over a period
spanning close to three decades.
Tahiti, Mo’orea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea... high,
mythical islands with deep green valleys that exude
the heady fragrance of the Tiare, an ephemeral gem
worn behind the ear as you walk along the winding
paths through the luxuriant vegetation. Rangiroa,
Manihi, Tetiaroa, Fakarava, Tikehau, atolls at the end
of the world, tiny islets dropped like a string of pearls
across their lagoon casket.
Tahiti and her Islands, otherwise known as French
Polynesia, lie approximately 17,700 kilometres from
the United Kingdom and span four million kilometres
of ocean – an area equivalent to the size of Europe.
Tahiti itself, which is one of the Society Islands, lies
halfway between California and Australia.
In all, there are 118 islands, scattered across five
archipelagos: the Marquesas (to the north), the
Society Islands and the Tuamotu (in the centre), the
Austral Islands (to the south) and the Gambiers (to the
south-east).
41
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Its turquoise waters reflect the sumptuous harmony of the underwater
world where divers might meet turtles, lemon sharks, manta and
leopard rays or even scorpion fish amidst gardens of coral ‘roses’.
42
xxxxx EDITS
The vision of these islands, open to the ocean,
is an experience to behold. The eye cannot tear
itself away from the basaltic mountains that rose
out of the abyss, those dark peaks towering to the
sky, so elegant and proud that one doesn’t know
whether to defy or salute them.
The culture of this luxuriant land at the end of
the world mirrors the strength and power of their
landscape. Neither the first Europeans who reached
the archipelago in 1595, nor the sandalwood
traffickers and whalers who followed them, not
even the catholic and protestant missionaries of
the 18th and 19th centuries have managed to stifle
the cultural wealth of these islands.
Yet for many decades the tattoo, the language,
the traditional clothing and dance were banned. In
the late 1800’s the artist Paul Gauguin denounced
the death of Polynesian culture and resolved to
fight alongside a people seemingly crushed by an
imported civilization.
At the dawn of this new millennium, singing,
dancing and tattooing are practised once again in
these islands which resonate with the sounds of
paradise.
Tahiti is a mountainous island dominated by
the summit of Mount Orohena, flanked on either
side by the famous silhouettes of Aorai, the
Diademe and Mount Marau. The island is divided
geographically into two circles: the larger and more
populated Tahiti Nui (literally ‘Big Tahiti’) to the
north-west is linked by an isthmus to the smaller
Tahiti Iti (‘Little Tahiti’) to the south-east.
The first port of call for most visitors is the
capital Pape’ete. The town is the main political and
economic centre of French Polynesia, and only 5
kilometres from Faa’a International Airport .Here
you will find a plethora of shops teeming with local
handicrafts, and broad palm-lined avenues dotted
with numerous cafés.
Pape’ete has a vibrant, friendly feel and one of
the best places to meet the locals is along the
waterfront where you will find the bustling little
food caravans known as ‘les roulottes’, that rock
the quayside every evening. The public market
in Pape’ete (Marché de Pape’ete), between rue
du 22 Septembre and rue F Cardella, is the heart
of the town and very Polynesian. It’s bursting
with flowers, local produce, tropical fruits, fish,
patisseries, handicrafts and numerous souvenir
stalls.
The circular volcanic land mass of the large
island of Tahiti Nui is criss-crossed with beautiful
deep valleys, and is connected by the narrow
isthmus of Taravao. For the curious visitor, the
mountains offer charming walks in wild valleys
of shade and light, with cathedrals of fern trees,
impressive waterfalls, mysterious grottos and
archaeological sites infused with legends. The
high valley of Papenoo leading to the Maroto Pass
and the crater lake of Vaihiria with its sacred eared
eels or the nature reserve of Fenua ai’here and the
spectacular costal cliffs of Te Pari on Tahiti Iti, will
marvel ramblers and lovers of unspoilt nature.
Matavai Bay to the east of the capital was the
favoured anchorage of early European explorers,
including Captain James Cook and William Bligh
of the ‘Bounty’. On its western boundary, Taharaa
Point offers fine views of Pape’ete and Point Venus,
the promontory that makes the bay’s eastern end,
which was the site of Cook’s observatory, built in
1769 to observe the transit of Venus as it passed
across the face of the sun.
A visit to the nearby district of Arue is a must,
for here you will find the tomb of Tahiti’s last
monarch, King Pōmare V, and ‘La Maison James
Norman Hall’, a museum dedicated to the life of
James Norman Hall (1887-1951), the legendary
adventurer, soldier, aviator and author who, along
with Charles B. Nordhoff, wrote the 1932 classic
’Mutiny on the Bounty’. Today, one can pay a
visit to the museum which was once his home
and where his daughter, Nancy Hall-Rutgers and
her devoted husband Nick still live on the hillside
above, as living testimonies to the past.
During the course of my second visit to Tahiti
in the spring of 2005, Nancy and Nick invited my
wife Rosemary and I to dinner one evening in their
colonial-style bungalow overlooking Matavai Bay,
where we were joined by their charming friend
Tarita Teri’ipaia, widow of the actor Marlon Brando
who sadly passed away the previous year. Talk
soon turned to the books written by her father
and the motion pictures they inspired, in particular
‘Mutiny on the Bounty’, ‘The Hurricane’, ‘Botany
Bay’ and ‘Pitcairn’s Island’, first published in 1934,
in which we shared a mutual interest, given my visit
to Pitcairn in 1989.
Shortly before we left, Nancy presented me with
a surprise gift of a first edition copy of ‘Pitcairn’s
Island’ which she duly signed, but it wasn’t until
we returned to our hotel later that evening that I
noticed the date of our visit: 28 April 2005. The
very day of the mutiny which took place here just
over two centuries earlier.
43
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From Tahiti, turn your gaze west across the Sea
of Moons. Those tall, dark and handsome peaks 20
kilometres in the distance belong to the neighbouring
island of Mo’orea. If French Polynesia is paradise,
Mo’orea is the jewel in the crown.
When you spy an island on the horizon, a powerful
force takes over. It’s as if the human psyche demands
that we discover and explore. If that island is Mo’orea,
you’ll be well rewarded for charting a course to her
shores.
Transport from Tahiti is absurdly easy, so you’ve no
excuse but to spend, at the very least, a day or two on
this veritable gem of an island. You can stroll down to
the quay in Pape’ete, hop on one of the high-speed
ferries, and be on Mo’orea in less than half an hour.
Alternatively, you can go out to the airport, get on an
Air Mo’orea flight and be there in less than 10 minutes.
To the visitor, Mo’orea appears as a tropical garden
filled with pineapple fields, the main agricultural
product of the island. In the midst of this fairytale
landscape, light rays pierce the Mou’a Puta (“the
pierced mountain”). Was it just natural eccentricity,
or according to legend, made by the arrow of the
demigod ‘Pai ’?
This enchanting island has one of the most beautiful
lagoons in the world. Its turquoise waters reflect the
sumptuous harmony of the underwater world where
44
divers might meet turtles, lemon sharks, manta and
leopard rays or even scorpion fish amidst gardens of
coral ‘roses’. Here you will find The Lagoonarium, a
spectacular marine park where you can swim with
the rays, feed the sharks or view the lagoon from the
Aquascope, the island’s semi-submersible.
Although the island retains a palpable air of
traditional Polynesia, and locals pride themselves
on having avoided the jam-packed development
of Bora Bora, the island is dominated by tourism.
Nevertheless,
Tahiti of yesteryear can still be
discovered at the Tiki Village Theatre, where you can
observe the ‘Tiki’ sculptors at work, the tattoo artists,
the ‘vahine’s’ making flower crowns, stringing shell
necklaces, weaving baskets and hats from pandanus
or discover the secrets of the Tahitian black pearl by
visiting the Pearl Farm. After sunset your Tahitian hosts
will proudly show you their village, let you participate
in the opening of the traditional underground oven
(the ‘ahima’a), and dine before joining them in a
spectacular Polynesian dance show performed in the
natural setting of the open air theatre.
The spectacular Cook’s Bay (Baie de Cook) on the
north shore of Mo’orea, is something of a misnomer
because Cook actually anchored in neighbouring
Opunohu Bay (Baie d’Opunohu), with Mount Rotui
as a backdrop. Cook’s Bay is a beautiful stretch of
Tahiti EDITS
water; it is also one of Mo’orea’s main tourist centres.
There are no chain stores or shopping malls on the
island. There are, however, many boutiques, galleries,
clothing stores and curio shops to satisfy your
shopping itch. Because the lagoon is such a strong
focus here, the majority of the larger resorts, such
as the Mo’orea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, and the
Hilton Mo’orea Lagoon Resort & Spa are located on
the north shore.
The most famous of the Society
Islands is undoubtedly Bora Bora,
home to a population of only 5,767
and the world’s largest, most
beautiful lagoon.
A mythical island which was, according to legend,
once known as “Mai te pora” (created by gods).
Today, this ancient extinct volcano is survived by
the immense silhouettes of its two peaks, Mount
Pahia and Mount Otemanu, whose verdant masses
contrast sharply with the shades of sapphire, jade and
turquoise of the lagoon which encircles the island.
This is where the rich and famous come to play and
hotel chains come to open more and more resorts,
resulting it would seem, in perpetual development.
Notwithstanding this, Bora Bora displays one
aspect of the traditional way of life in the Polynesian
architecture of her luxurious hotels in the form of their
famous overwater bungalows. Foremost among them
is the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora on Motu Tehotu
... the perfect destination for honeymoon couples.
The island is also the final stage of the most important
canoe race in the South Pacific: The Hawaiki Nui Va’a.
Bora Bora is 270 kilometres north-west of Tahiti
and can be reached by air or boat from the capital.
There are 2-3 sailings per week and the journey takes
around 10 hours. However, the majority of visitors
arrive by air for there are at least six flights a day from
Tahiti and they take little more than 50 minutes to
reach the island.
It would be impossible to report on every island
in French Polynesia, but I have strived throughout
the text to devote my attention to the main tourist
destinations. However, should you ever decide to visit
these islands and have more than two weeks at your
disposal, you really should endeavour to visit some
of the smaller islands and atolls such as Huahine,
Raiatea and Tetiaroa, and if at all possible take a
cruise to Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas Archipelago or
the low-lying coral atolls of the Tuamotus, Australs
and The Gambier.
Huahine is made up of two volcanic islands split by
an arm of the sea, although at low tide you can walk
from one to the other. Like the other Society Islands,
Huahine is green and lush with a vanilla, melon and
citrus fruit agriculture. With ancient sites at Fare,
Maeva and Faaie, the island is a treasure of Polynesian
archaeology.
Raiatea is the largest of the Leeward Islands with an
area of 280 square kilometres. As it has few beaches,
tourism is little developed. The island was the religious
centre of ancient Polynesia and visitors to the island
can see the great temple of Taputapuatea dating back
to 1600.
The closest atoll to Tahiti is Tetiaroa, the ancient
royal residence of the Pōmare Dynasty. The island
boasts a shimmering lagoon in privileged, protected
surroundings. It is not surprising that the late Marlon
Brando, its owner since the 1960’s, fell under its spell
when filming on the set of the 1962 remake of ‘Mutiny
on the Bounty’, in the role of Fletcher Christian.
Enthralled by the Polynesian way of life – and his
leading lady Tarita, who played Maimiti opposite
Brando, and later became his third wife and the love
of his life – he resolved to find a way to own this piece
of paradise and succeeded in his goal in 1967. It was
in this natural wonderland that he settled down, and
finally found a home.
Brando was passionate about preserving Tetiaroa’s
natural beauty, biodiversity and rich cultural heritage
and was determined to find a way in which it could be
a centre for research and education and a model of
sustainability. He was convinced that this small atoll
could bring good to the entire world.
In 1999 he asked Richard Bailey, a long-time friend
and resident of Tahiti who shared Brando’s passion
for the environment and who had created some of
the region’s finest resorts, to help him conceive a plan
that would help Brando achieve his dream. Together,
Brando and Bailey pursued a vision of creating the
world’s first and foremost post-carbon resort – an
island where innovative new technologies would
enable a self-sustaining luxury environment for hotel
guests, residents and scientific research.
On his death in 2004, Marlon Brando’s dreams for
Tetiaroa were spearheaded by Bailey, who worked
tirelessly to see them fulfilled. The plans went through
many redesigns but Marlon’s wishes were finally
carried out when The Brando resort opened on
Tetiaroa in the summer of 2014. Today, this pristine
island paradise is the legacy of that shared vision. It
was my good fortune to stay there on my return visit
to Tahiti in 2015.
The Marquesas Islands, or “Enua Enata” in the
local language, comprise a group of islands that rise
up like lush green fortresses against the wide indigo
blue of the Pacific Ocean, right next to the Equator
and some 1,500 kilometres from Tahiti. Of the twelve
Marqueasas islands, only six are inhabited. The best
45
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known are Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa and Ua Pou. This is an
ideal world for sailing, the natural means of transport
from one valley to another. The Marquesas have
very few beaches, so they are all the more precious!
Pigs, goats, sheep and horses roam freely across the
splendid landscape.
The Tuamato Archipelago to the east of Tahiti
consists of some 77 low-lying coral atolls. Only 45 of
the islands are inhabited, ranging from large islands
such as Rangiroa with a population of around 2,000
to small, secluded islands such as Hereheretu and
Tematangi. Rangiroa is home to French Polynesia’s
only vineyard! The Tuamotus remain relatively
untouched, as tourism did not begin until the 1970’s
when the airstrips were built. The islands are the heart
of the Tahitian black pearl culture and it is here that
visitors can observe the grafting process at the many
black pearl farms.
To the extreme south of French Polynesia lie the
islands of the Australs group, only 5 of which are
actually inhabited. The Australs were the last of the
Polynesian islands to be settled and are perhaps
best known for their association with the ‘Bounty’
46
saga, when the mutineers led by Fletcher Christian
unsuccessfully tried to establish a settlement on the
island of Tubuai.
Just a few hours from Tahiti by air, the magnificent
beaches of Mangareva and her sister islands of
Aukena, Akamara and Taravai unfold their infinite,
dazzling whiteness on the peaceful shores of the
most remote archipelago of French Polynesia –The
Gambier. There are only three guest houses to choose
from on Mangareva, the only inhabited island of the
group. The climate is relatively mild and winter can
be quite cool.
If you have a touch of romance in your soul, close
your eyes and imagine a South Pacific island. You
might see a thatched-roof bungalow perched
above the crystal clear waters of an inviting blue
lagoon. And then you become part of the vision,
adorned in hibiscus and bathing in the warmth that
surrounds you. Come to Tahiti and her Islands and
find yourself in this dream. And it’s just possible
that you’ll never want to say goodbye.
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47
H
HOMES Chaplins
Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the HUSK outdoor armchairs allow water to
seep through the cushioning without stagnation for year-round use.
Chaplin’s new
‘Outdoor Living’ Shop
OPENS MARCH 2016
It’s time to embrace the panache with which the Europeans entertain,
live, eat and lounge about outdoors…
It may seem like ages away but time flies (more so
these days what with us all living at 100 miles an hour)
and soon it will be time to eat and entertain outdoors.
Furniture for such activity is the fastest growing sector of
the industry in Europe. And so Chaplins are offering the
very latest creations to luxuriate in this new mode for al
fresco living. Britain’s foremost and largest contemporary
furniture shop are opening a new ‘outdoor living’ furniture
shop at its flagship showroom in March 2016.
Simon Chaplin says
“our customers want design-led furniture
in their gardens and outdoor spaces
that reflects the style and quality within
their homes.”
The new Outdoor Living Shop at Chaplins will showcase
the expansive selection of luxury high-end furniture for
outdoors available in the UK; from sofas, kitchens and
loungers through to an array of outdoor lighting designed
by the world’s leading designers such as Philippe Starck
and Patricia Urquiola to include brands such as B&B Italia,
Flos, Gandia Blasco, Gloster and Serralunga.
chaplins.co.uk
48
Chaplins HOMES
entertain, live,
eat and lounge
about outdoors
Designed by Daniel Pouzet and
Fred Frety, ‘NESTREST’ is a
hanging pod offering a secluded
suspended sanctuary and unusual meeting place for open-air
conversations.
The Atmosfera outdoor lamps at Chaplins
are captivating sculptures of light which
create a beautiful and impressive setting
for evening entertaining.
49
H
E
EDITS xxxxx
New Year Deep Clean
at Blenheim Palace
The New Year is traditionally the perfect time to make a start on some serious
house cleaning, and a team of cleaners are hard at work on a pre-season
‘deep clean’ at Blenheim Palace – a painstaking procedure that has been
taking place at the Oxfordshire World Heritage Site for decades.
50
xxxxx EDITS
Although the
techniques,
equipment and
conservation
procedures may
have changed,
the cleaning
process itself
still takes six
weeks with a
team of up to 10
people working
daily.
Specific items
being cleaned
include 40 busts
and sculptures,
28 marble tables,
10,000 books, 18
clocks, 38 pieces
of armour and
200 pieces of
porcelain. These
images of “then
and now” show
just how pristine
the palace’s
inventory is kept…
51
E
H
HOMES xxxxx
A Great Reception
Tips on decorating your living room
Reception or living rooms are often decorated with a view to being used
for entertaining guests, and therefore in some ways designed as the
‘public’ face of a home.
Some will prefer to create an oasis of calm,
or choose décor that sets a more informal
atmosphere than elsewhere. Others will want to
be very traditional or perhaps mix contemporary,
traditional and continental styles.
Here we explore key flavours in living room style
to inspire new looks to personalise your home.
The key to establishing a look is colour. Bold, deep,
vivid, unexpected colours employed individually
against grey or stone, to moderate the impact, or
together (if you have the nerve) can be used to fabulous
effect. This is where a feature wall in one strong shade
or wallpaper can be used to transform a room.
Think about curtains, sofa, floor colour and wall
finish all at the same time. Don’t select the colour
of your walls first, and don’t rush the process. Let it
unfold like a pack of cards. Think about the whole.
Another important element is texture. The
unexpected addition of an unusual material, such as
a velvet-covered armchair, sumptuous linens or a
chunky chenille cushion can make a real statement.
This can turn a dreary room into one that dazzles.
The featured ‘Howard’-style chair, for instance, is
covered with game birds and is absolutely stunning.
Pieces like this will never disappoint, and this one
is perfect for the Cotswolds. It is one of our most
popular looks, is easy to work with, stylish and will
look as if it has been there forever.
Consider well-designed, unfussy furnishings.
Antique furniture or classic designs can be given
dramatic new lease of life when looked at afresh,
perhaps with the addition of traditional upholstery
with contrast-coloured buttons and piping. Don’t stick
to the usual rules. Be bold, play around and have fun!
Whilst the big picture is important, individual items
can make a real difference. This is a chance to
include eclectic accents, vibrant rugs and cushions,
intriguing light fittings, mirrors, wall art, or fabulous
window treatments. It may be something as discreet
as a coloured-glass vase or a bookcase with books
‘disarranged’ in rainbow colour order. That this look
does not take itself too seriously is what makes it such
fun. Set the trend.
Furniture should be close together. Don’t isolate
objects, pieces of furniture or certain areas.
The room should flow so that the
eye can move over everything in
one sweep.
You should get a comprehensive overview rather
than singling things out, or making furniture feel static
and formal.
The most welcoming homes are those that feel
informal, relaxed and decorated with the confidence
52
xxxxx HOMES
Pieces like this will never disappoint, and this one is perfect for the Cotswolds
to be personal and feel lived in. They are not scruffy
or cluttered, but neither are they pristine and
untouchable. They look elegant, yet invite guests to
curl up on the sofa; beautifully decorated, yet not
stiff, and most of all, they reflect the character and
personality of the owner and the way in which they
live.
Collect objects or ornaments with a similar theme to
make an impact and show personality.
Any object can look pretty if treated in the right way.
Displaying something that is not usually displayed
can turn it into a piece of art. Love things for their
imperfections. Choose some salvaged pieces as a
style statement.
The relaxed approach is about balance. Always
remember that not being too ‘precious’ about things
is key to making a home feel relaxed. Make regular
changes and your ‘public face’ will always look fresh
to the world.
The Gallery
69 High Street, Burford,
Oxon, OX18 4QA
Opening hours: Monday-Saturday
9am-5pm
Sunday 10am-4pm
ABOUT
AMANDA
HANLEY
A friendly Cotswolds-based interior designer
with 30 years' experience and an excellent team
of craftsmen, builders and suppliers, Amanda
Hanley takes on projects for clients from the
Cotswolds to London.
Born and trained in the capital, Amanda ran a
property-development company before moving
to Fulbrook, where she now runs the Amanda
Hanley by Design Studio. Get in touch for details
of buying trips to Europe, or advice and help
with your renovation and home-decor projects.
Amanda Hanley by Design
07976 353996
www.amandahanley.co.uk
53
H
Feel as
flexible
as your
payment
options
0%
*
finance on
Orthopaedic
care
*Zebra Finance offer approved customers 0% finance (Representative 0% APR) for one off private treatments.
Spire Thames Valley Hospital, Wexham Street,
Wexham, Buckinghamshire, SL3 6NH
54
Be in control of your Orthopaedic
care costs with Self-pay from Spire.
At Spire Thames Valley Hospital and Windsor Clinic,our
highly skilled orthopaedic consultants, nurses,
consultant radiologists and specialist physiotherapists
treat an extensive range of bone and joint problems,
from diagnosis using the latest tests, x-rays and scans
through to aftercare and out-patient treatment.
Going private could now be more affordable than you
think. Our fixed Self-pay prices means there will never
be any extras.
For us it’s more than just treating patients, it’s
about looking after people.
01753 665404
info@spirethamesvalley.com
spirethamesvalley.com
55
Water Mill House Care Home
Nursing, Residential & Dementia Care
Rose Lane
Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9TE
www.watermillhousecarehome.co.uk
For more information call us on
01442 899 000
Let’s talk about
better care.
Water Mill House in Hemel Hempstead is a new
purpose-built care home providing high quality
residential, nursing and dementia care.
It provides a high standard of living and
outstanding facilities for residents including a
bistro, spa and hair salon, private dining area,
fitness suite and cinema. Both the care provided
and the environment focus on independence,
meaningful days and social interaction for
residents and their families.
• Care focuses on an individual’s holistic needs enhancing wellbeing
and quality of life
• Highly experienced and trained nursing and care team
• An uplifting, relaxing and homely environment with a high standard of décor
• A full programme of lifestyle activities and events
• Much needed support and reassurance for all the family
56
94 YEAR OLD
IS TOP GYM ATTENDEE
94 year old Kay moved into Water Mill
House Care Home in October 2014.
She was not coping with living at home,
had very limited mobility and had
lost confidence.
“I used to be very independent and
losing my mobility was really difficult
for me. When I first came to Water
Mill House, I was just too nervous
to do anything. I am so thrilled that
I was persuaded to use the gym
and regain my strength, it’s made
such a difference. Now I am much
more active and that brings so many
benefits”.
When she first arrived at Water Mill House
Care Home, Kay was unable to bend and
was very unsteady and slow on her feet,
needing help with almost everything.
To start with, Kay would rarely come out
of her room and wouldn’t socialise with
the other residents.
An amazing lady
With gentle encouragement from
the Water Mill House’s team of carers,
Kay gradually gained enough confidence
to start exercising in the home’s specialist
fitness suite last November.
Tracy MacDonald, who works in the
fitness suite said, “Once we persuaded
Kay to come and use the fitness
equipment. I worked with her on a
one-to-one basis, gradually helping
her to build her strength and with it her
confidence. She is an amazing lady and
now she is my top attendee at the gym!
“Using the recumbent stepper to
strengthen her legs and knees, Kay
started with 316 steps in 6 minutes
and 14 seconds. By April this year, Kay
had improved so much that she was
achieving 1,833 steps in 15 minutes.
Her stride, originally 12.9 was now 17.5.
A huge improvement!”
Water Mill House Care Home
Nursing, Residential & Dementia Care
Rose Lane
Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9TE
T 01442 89900
www.watermillhousecarehome.co.uk
57
S
STYLE xxxxx
© Braid Barbers
58
Men’s facial hair trends STYLE
Men’s facial hair
trends for 2016
Beards are here to stay, but retro alternatives
are also making a comeback.
It seems that claims ‘peak beard’ had been reached
back in 2014 may have been a little hasty, with stylish
facial fuzz continuing to dominate in the men’s style
stakes throughout 2015 – but with the new year now
in full swing, it may be time to reconsider your current
look. Whether you rock the full beard with pride or
have - incredibly - yet to experiment with the unshaven
look at all, premium men’s grooming brand The
Bluebeards Revenge has teamed up with Mike Taylor,
MD of the British Barbers’ Association, to bring you the
lowdown on the biggest beard and facial hair trends
for 2016.
Trim regularly with a beard trimmer set to around 3mm4mm to maintain length, and be sure to care well for your
skin in order to avoid redness and irritation.
MOUSTACHE
Movember may be long gone, but the mighty moustache is
here to stay. Anyone who has actively shunned the beard
in recent years will be pleased to learn that there is a new
alternative, while those already sporting a proud facial mop
can add an upper lip accent for a fresh new look to coincide
with the new year.
To get one, patience is key – allow it to grow for a good
few months, and avoid trimming above the lip until you are
satisfied with the length. While you are waiting, be sure to
comb through regularly, training the hairs outwards either
side of your philtrum. Style with a little bit of moustache wax,
twisting upwards and outwards, and you’re good to go.
59
S
S
STYLE Men’s facial hair trends
60
Men’s facial hair trends STYLE
It’s all change for 2016, so
let this be the year you try
out a daring new look.
SIDEBURNS
Mutton chops, side slugs – whatever you call them,
sideburns are due a moment in 2016, and while you
may have assumed that this was a look left firmly in
the past, like most trends, it has come full circle. Very
much a part of the full-bearded trend, this time, the
lambchop is going solo, so if you’re all about making
a statement then it may be time to take a razor to the
rest of it and say goodbye to the hair on your chin.
Championed by the likes of Elvis Presley, Tom Jones
and – more recently – Bradley Wiggins, sideburns
are set to be huge – although never quite as huge as
those infamously sported by George Best.
STUBBLE
Not all men are blessed in the facial hair department,
and those who have spent the past three years trying
desperately to reach full-bearded status will be
relieved to hear that designer stubble is tipped for big
things in 2016. Not only is it the perfect choice for
the follically challenged, but it’s also a great option
for those who frankly can’t be bothered with the daily
shave.
That said, some maintenance will be required. Allow
hairs to grow until itchy, then follow the natural lines
created by your features to create your perfect shape,
wet shaving any areas that do not fit the template with
a good quality razor and creating clean lines along the
edges. If you already have a particularly chiselled face
then you might prefer to fade or taper your stubble
rather than creating a defined outline, as this will
make for a slightly softer look.
THE TIGHT BEARD
Keen to keep up with the beard trend but need to stay
neat and tidy for work? Then the tight beard is set
to be your best friend for 2016. This style keeps the
keeps the facial hair trimmed short for a well-groomed
look. That is well within the bounds of facial symmetry.
Set your trimmer to a setting of 2-3 millimetre, and
trim evenly all over, then wet shave the surrounding
areas, creating sharp, well-defined edges as you go.
THE SHORTER LONG BEARD
Long beards aren’t for everyone, and if not well cared
for they can look downright scraggy. To bring the
trend up to date, try a shorter take on the style.
This version of the beard follows the shape of the
face, with sharp, groomed lines which contrast with
the slightly more unpredictable growth below. The
bottom of the beard should line up a couple of inches
below the chin, while the hair beneath the chin and
towards the neck should be left in place to add to the
overall fullness.
61
S
Perfect for
Golf, Conference &
Weddings
Chobham Golf Club is a private members
golf club which welcomes visitors is one
of the friendliest clubs in Surrey. The
combination of a superbly designed golf
course and excellent conference facilities
will make your day one to remember.
Our 18 hole par 69 golf course opened
in 1994, was designed by Peter Allis and
Clive Clarke and is laid out on naturally
undulating parkland set amongst mature
oak woodland giving the impression that
the course has been around for many more
years. The course provides an excellent
challenge to the skills of low and high
handicap players alike.
Built to championship standards with
USGA greens and tees, the course has
automatic irrigation and a drainage system
designed to provide excellent year round
play. Among the many attractive features of
the course are the six strategically placed
62
lakes. There is a combination of challenging
par 4’s, reachable par 5’s and six superb par
3’s. The clubs signature hole is the 15th,
a 222 yard par 3 nestling in front of the
clubhouse terrace.
Our conference facilities are perfect for
your get away from it all meetings and an
ideal venue for combining business with
pleasure. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere
of the clubhouse which boasts a 1st floor
function suite overlooking the 15th hole
with a private bar capable of hosting a sit
down function for 150 guests. Additionally
Chobham Golf Club is licensed to hold
civil ceremonies and perfect for any special
occasion.
“Chobham Golf Club, where great golf
meets first class hospitality for weddings,
conferences and all types of celebrations”
www.chobhamgolfclub.co.uk
Summer Golf
at Chobham Golf Club
Where a friendly welcome is guaranteed
Summer Golf Days
Tea/coffee & bacon roll
on arrival
18 Holes of golf
For just £34 per person
Receive a Free 4 ball prize
voucher with every booking
for 12 or more players
Offer available 1st April –
31st October
Book now quoting
“HC Magazine”
01276 855584
sales@chobhamgolfclub.co.uk
63
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MOTORING Cars to watch out for in 2016
Alfa Romeo are pinning its hopes on revival
with the long awaited Giulia due around
September 2016
CARS TO WATCH
OUT FOR IN 2016…
With the motor industry booming there’ll be a plethora of great
new cars on the market for 2016. Too many to mention here,
so let’s look at a few highlights in alphabetical order.
Alfa Romeo are pinning its hopes on revival with the
long awaited Giulia due around September 2016 – it’s
a BMW 3 Series contender that Alfa hopes will revive
the brand. Meanwhile Aston Martin are planning to
step up the supercar stakes with the new DB11 due in
summer 2016, it’ll be powered by a twin-turbocharged
AMG engine and possibly launched under a different
name. Turning to Audi, they plan to facelift their A3
saloon in the summer with minor styling tweaks, whilst
it’ll be top down glory in the new R8 Spyder due in
the spring.
It’s a big year for Bentley – they’ll be launching their
first ever SUV, the Bentayga, after heavily modifying
the design of the original concept version. We believe
Her Majesty the Queen has already taken delivery of
one. BMW are on a roll too this year with the new X2
64
sports coupe due in late 2016. The new M2 scheduled
for April this year is the big hype car of the year; a 365
bhp rear wheel drive Coupe. BMW fans should also
look forward to the no doubt staggering M4 GTS due
in spring 2016.
Life wouldn’t be the same without Ferrari. I proposed
to my wife when she said she wanted one. 2016 sees
the introduction of the 488 Spider, whilst the revival of
the Dino name pledges a new £150,000 mid-engined
sports car from the brand. The F12tdf, on the streets
now (and here in the summer), with its big weight
reduction and power boost to 770bhp is the closest
thing to Viagra on wheels.
The MX5 based Fiat 124 is coming in autumn 2016;
beginning its life as an Alfa, it now becomes a Fiat and
may well poke a tiny hole in MX5 sales, but probably
Cars to watch out for in 2016 MOTORING
There is a new Dawn…
courtesy of Rolls Royce
too tiny to notice. Expect Italian flair handling for
Italian flair handling enthusiasts, for they will be the
buyers.
Turning to bigger fish, Ford plan to do what they do
best with the new Focus RS due in the spring; 316bhp
and all-wheel drive equals serious fun. At the other
end of the scale look out for the Focus Electric in late
2016 – rumoured to provide 100 miles of range in just
30 mins charging. Me – I’d go for the new Ford GT;
powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine
developing over 600bhp, a petrol-head’s delight.
So too is the new Honda NSX (spring), although this
is slightly more environmentally friendly, generating
550bhp from its hybrid powertrain incorporating a
V6 engine and three electric motors – a technological
engineering milestone we believe.
The trend towards luxury 4x4s continues with
Jaguars F Pace, their first ever SUV out in the spring,
and so is Kia’s revised Sportage. Land Rover are
building on the winning styling cues of the Evoque
with the introduction of the Evoque Convertible this
year. Meanwhile, Maserati will be in on the SUV craze
as well with the launch of the Maserati Levante, a car
we hope to see before the end of the year.
Mercedes-Benz plan to introduce a new E-Class this
summer, taking styling cues from the C-class, GLA
and S-class coupé, with an E-Class Coupe planned
for later in the year whilst MINI plan to introduce a new
and better equipped Convertible in 2016, and the new
Countryman due later in the year will be bigger with
updated styling. Mitsubishi meanwhile have facelifted
the Outlander this year but it’s uncertain when the car
will come to the UK.
There is a new Dawn…courtesy of Rolls Royce. It
is to our mind, the best looking Roller yet, looking
to target the younger well to do customer and set
to boost Rolls Royce sales in deliberately measured
fashion. Skoda on the other hand, already stooped
in accolades with their current model line-up, plan
to release a new large SUV this year. There’ll be mild
hybrid power and 1.0-litre turbo petrol for the Suzuki
supermini Baleno this summer.
Speaking of hybrid, we’ll see a revised Toyota
Prius with a new modular platform whilst Volvo plan
to introduce the new S90, with a V90 estate version
not long thereafter. Finally, watch out for the latest
reiteration of the Volkswagen Golf expected towards
the end of the year; it’ll have the new mild hybrid
power trains too.
Yes, manufacturers are set for a very busy and
competitive year!
Life wouldn’t be the same without
Ferrari… 2016 sees the introduction
of the 488 Spider
65
M
The new Infiniti Q30
THE FIRST EVER
INFINITI Q30
Born to Challenge
With its sleek and unique design
and assistive technologies, discover
how the new Infiniti Q30 stands out.
Infiniti Centre Reading
25-27 Rose Kiln Lane,
Reading, RG2 0JZ
Starting from
£20,550*
infiniti.co.uk
#BornToChallenge
 InfinitiRetailGroup  @InfinitiRG
0118 907 1333
centrehost@infiniti-reading.co.uk
www.infiniti-reading.co.uk
Official Fuel Consumption Figures for Infiniti Q30 1.5D (model shown) in mpg (l/100km) Urban 60.1 (4.7), Extra Urban 74.3 (3.8), Combined
68.9 (4.1). CO2 emissions 109g/km. Official EU test figures obtained from laboratory testing, and may not represent real-life driving results
(which
66 vary depending on driving behaviour, conditions, optional extras and other factors).
*Model shown is an Infiniti Q30 Premium Tech 1.5d (80 kW) 6MT FWD at £28,300 On The Road including optional glass roof at £500, metallic paint at £670 and 19” alloy wheels at £700.
115642T
Infiniti Q30 MOTORING
THE INFINITI Q30
Loyal Infiniti customers sussed it pretty early on and have been smiling ever since.
The rest of us tend to be married to the established premium brands we know and love,
yet rarely do we sit down and compare pound for pound what we actually get for our
money. Make such a calculation and you are likely to find Infiniti pops up on your shortlist, especially now they’ve introduced the Q30, their first medium sized family vehicle.
Infiniti has its own DNA; it is a sporting, stylish brand
seeking to combine performance with luxury and
practicality. Formula 1 fans will be aware of their
sponsorship association with the Red Bull Formula
1 team, and the consequent use of a Mr Sebastian
Vettel to tune up the handling of their big Q50; rumour
has it the said Vettel is pretty handy behind the wheel.
Yet Infiniti’s value for money plays just as big a part
in the brand’s appeal. The Q30 for example, set to be
their big mainstream seller, competes with the Audi
A3, the BMW 1 Series, the Mercedes A Class and the
Volvo V40, yet if you stand these models side by side
with identical technical and accessory spec, you’ll find
that many features you’d pay extra for on the other
premium brands come standard on the Q30 at the
quoted retail price. In short, you’ll be saving in the
region of a couple of grand on the purchase price of
your new car.
CONFIDENT
With the Q30, the intentions are to improve on volume
year on year in the UK and build on the brand for
the future. It is the right model for these ambitions,
especially with the impressive range of engine and
specification options opening it up to a good share of
retail and fleet sales alike.
There are 4 engine options, two diesel (1.5 & 2.2
litre) and two petrol (1.6 & 2.0 litre) – all turbo charged,
and available in 6 speed manual or 7 speed semiautomatic Dual -Clutch Transmission. The Q30 is
powered by the rear wheels, apart from the 2.2 turbo
diesel which is offered with a 4 wheel drive also.
The test drive impressions we previously reported
on at the car’s launch demonstrated that the Q30
offered impressive ride quality combined with long
distance motorway comfort, achieving in our view
a good compromise between ride refinement and
an engaging drive. The comparative ride refinement
of the bigger engined 2.0 litre cars and the spritely
driving dynamics of the highly competent 1.5 diesel
both have significant driver appeal. Good steering
feel, taking account of the weight and chassis
characteristics of the Q30, was a high priority for
Infiniti, making the driving both pleasurable and fun.
In terms of styling, we stand by our launch
impression that the Q30 is a fine looker with the guts
to be different without being offensive, whilst inside
offering the cabin comfort and quality that earns it its
badge as a premium car.
VALUE
Whilst Infiniti may not yet be quite as established in
the UK as the regular premium brands they are now
the genuine alternative, so as a result you need not
have concern about resale values. Independent value
researchers CAP, predict that the Q30 will retain 39%
of its value over three years and 60,000 miles which
is directly comparable to other premium cars in the
sector and ahead of the majority of the vehicles in this
segment; whilst insurance premiums are as low as
group 13 for the 1.5d.
There is a lot to the saying ‘less is more’, and the Q30
offers great value whilst leaving you with a little more
in the bank when you drive away from the showroom.
67
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Celebrated Chef Chris Wheeler invites you to indulge your tastebuds
at Humphry’s, Stoke Park’s award winning restaurant. Open to all,
Humphry’s fine dining restaurant allows you to enjoy ‘an experience you
want to relive again and again’ (At Home with Marco Pierre White).
Named as one of the ‘Best of Britain’ in the Tatler Restaurant Guide,
Humphry’s innovative take on Modern British Cuisine and enviable
wine list provides an unforgettable treat, all set within the sumptuous,
romantic surroundings of Stoke Park’s Georgian mansion.
Open: Wednesday - Sunday : Lunch 12.00pm - 2.30pm
Tuesday - Sunday : Dinner 7.00pm - 10.00pm
To make a reservation please call 01753 717172
or68email reservations@stokepark.com
www.stokepark.com