Coworth Park has unveiled details for Woven by Adam Smith, the new restaurant opening at Dorchester Collection’s luxury country house hotel on 8 September 2022. Chef Adam Smith’s menu will offer a tapestry of familiar flavours reimagined in unexpected ways, combining the classics with modern touches and layers of personal experience. Martin Hulbert Design has created the interiors for the restaurant, crafting a theatrical and contemporary space that blends seamlessly into the Georgian manor house setting, whilst complementing and elevating the dining experience.
An eye-catching set of sculptures inspired by the Coworth Park gardens sits at the entrance of Woven by Adam Smith. Past these, guests will be welcomed into an impressive new wine room and pantry, with two floor-to-ceiling wine cellars, holding a unique curation of bottles. The culinary journey will begin with a selection of snacks served from the pantry including devilled egg; caviar, smoked roe, pine; Coronation chicken; andcured seabass, XO sauce, kalamansi, seaweed. Welcome drinks will pair seamlessly with Adam’s menu and introduce guests to a list that celebrates British wines alongside library vintages from some of the best producers around the world, and cocktails that use storied, sustainable British spirits from Sapling.
A light-filled conservatory with expansive views over the Berkshire countryside sits to one side of the pantry, offering an extension of the main restaurant space or an exclusive private dining setting for up to 12 guests. The main dining room seats 44, with interiors that champion quality, craft and natural materials at every turn. As a centrepiece of the restaurant, a striking plaster relief set with root vegetables sits on the back wall, made by artisans Locker & Riley. The eye is also drawn to a contemporary light installation that mimics a woodland canopy, with delicate rays of light pouring over the restaurant below. The design of the space sets the scene for a wonderfully storied dining experience.
With surprising twists and turns, Adam’s food challenges expectations of the classics, with recipes, ingredients and dishes reinterpreted through the lens of personal experience. Adam rose through the ranks in the kitchens of The Ritz and The Devonshire Arms, before joining Coworth Park as Executive Chef in 2016. He has gained numerous awards along the way; amongst his proudest moments, winning the prestigious Roux Scholarship in 2012 and being awarded Master of Culinary Arts in 2017. Woven by Adam Smith represents the culmination of Adam’s great career to date, with the chef taking his years of experience combined with a creative and hugely passionate approach to cooking, and fully expressing his unique style at the new restaurant. The menu champions British produce in dishes such as brown crab, radish, apple, basil and yuzu; Hen of the Woods, Old Winchester, turnip and truffle; and Hereford beef, potato, onion, tendon and tongue. In celebration of Coworth Park’s bee hives, desserts include black fig, estate honey, walnut andbee pollen. Alternatively, guests can indulge in Adam’s signature chocolate, sea salt, coco nib andcrème fraîche, or choose from a wide selection of British cheeses served from the pantry.
The menu is priced at £80pp for lunch and £130pp for dinner, with the experience starting with a selection of snacks ‘From The Pantry’, followed by a choice ‘From The Larder’, ‘From The Stove’ and ‘From The Pastry’, before concluding with a selection of sweet treats. Wine pairing will be offered at £80pp.
You may have noticed that we have been a bit quiet lately while we’ve been putting together our latest issue of Travel Dine Relax.
Since we launched the magazine in 2020, we’ve been overwhelmed by the feedback from our readers and we hope that our Spring issue doesn’t disappoint.
Jam packed full of ideas of where to visit, things to do and places to dine along with some inspiring interviews with two talented chefs, there’s something for everyone. So sit back and enjoy the journey.
Dedicated to highlighting some of the West’s very best cheeses produced by women, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is taking attendees on a tasting journey, with guided samplings of five perfectly matched cheese and wines in the surrounds of the hotel’s cosy library.
Savouring Bath’s qualified cheese expert Mike will be joined by cheese-maker Julianna Sedli from The Old Cheese Room, taking guests through samples of Lypiatt, Berkswell and Wigmore among others. Limited to 10 attendees, tickets cost £45 per person and can be purchased directly from the hotel’s events team by calling 01225 823 333 or emailing events@royalcrescent.co.uk.
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa offers 45 individually designed suites and bedrooms, located in the heart of the 250-year-old Grade I Listed Royal Crescent in the historic city of Bath, the historical home of renowned female novelist – Jane Austen.
Maisons Pariente has announced that it will be welcoming guests to Crillon Le Brave this season, the property will open for Christmas and New Year for the first time providing a cosy Provencal getaway.
Located in the heart of Provence, Crillon Le Brave is the splendid 5-star hideaway reserved for guests who are disconnecting from city lights and fast paced life. The hotel is open to guests over Christmas and New Year to celebrate in pure luxury with loved ones without having a worry in the world.
Guests can enjoy a festive and New Year dinner at La Table du Ventoux, alongside a magic show for an evening of great surprises in the idyllic setting of Crillon le Brave. Surrounded by vineyards and breath-taking views, Hotel Crillon Le Brave offers a luxury, slow paced setting for a stay with the scents of Provence.
Nightly rates at Crillon Le Brave start from 350 Euros on a bed & breakfast basis.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is making a return to its homeland of Norway today as new ship Borealis sets sail in search of the Northern Lights, the natural phenomenon after which she is named.
Since the line resumed sailing in the summer, Fred. Olsen’s first cruise to Norway marks the start of a hand-crafted programme of cruising to the region, with 22 sailings across all four seasons in 2022.
Fred. Olsen’s Journey Planners have crafted the Norwegian sailings to maximise the benefits of their smaller ships, which allow them to sail size restricted waters such as Lysefjord, Åkrafjord and Fjaerlandsfjord, leading to secluded waterfalls and scenic fjord sailing.
Martin Lister, Head of Itinerary Planning and Destination Experience at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:
“At Fred. Olsen, we are proud to sail our own course, and our homeland of Norway is somewhere this really shines through.
“This is especially true in the fjords, where we frequently travel away from the well-sailed route. Here we can offer exceptional experiences for our guests, such as sailing Maurangerfjord to show our guests the sprawling Fureberg Waterfall.
“The smaller size of our ships opens up so many possibilities for us. We can sail the size-restricted Lysefjord so guests can look up at the famous Pulpit Rock or cruise Åkrafjord to the tall and tumbling Langfoss Waterfall, often regarded as the best waterfall in Norway, offering views of spectacular scenery direct from the ship.
“This first cruise back to Norway will be extra special, as not only will we be visiting Alta, renowned for being one of the best places on earth to see the Northern Lights, but it will also see Borealis going in search of the phenomena from which she takes her name. We can’t wait to share this experience with our guests.”
Some highlights of Fred. Olsen’s sailings to Norway in 2022 include:
Bolette’s 14-night T2202A ‘In Search of the Northern Lights cruise, departing from Southampton on 30th January 2022. Prices start from £1,399 per person. Itinerary: Southampton, England – Trondheim, Norway – Alta, Norway (overnight stay) – Tromsø, Norway (overnight stay) – Bodø, Norway – Ålesund, Norway – Southampton, England For more details: Visit T2202A ‘In Search of the Northern Lights
Borealis’ eight-night S2208 ‘Classic Norwegian Fjords’ cruise, departing from Liverpool on 6th April 2022. Prices start from £999 per person. Itinerary: Liverpool, England – Cruising Lysefjord, Norway – Cruising Hardangerfjord, Norway – Eidfjord, Norway – Cruising Maurangerfjord and Furebergfossen, Norway – Flåm, Norway – Cruising Nærøyfjord, Norway – Bergen, Norway – Kirkwall, Orkney Islands – Liverpool, England For more details: Visit S2208′ Classic Norwegian Fjords.’
Balmoral’s 15-night L2217′ Rugged and Remote Spitsbergen’ cruise, departing from Newcastle on 22nd June 2022. Prices start from £2,599 per person. Itinerary: Newcastle, England – Olden, Norway (overnight stay) – Cruising Nordfjord, Norway – Maloy, Norway – Cruising Nærøyfjord, Norway – Cruising Torghatten, Norway – Cruising Seven Sisters Mountain Range, Norway – Crossing the Arctic Circle, Norway – Cruising Trollfjord, Norway – Cruising by Djevelen Tanngard, Norway – Honningsvåg, Norway – Cruising North Cape, Norway – Pyramiden, Norway – Cruising by Nordenskiöldbreen, Norway – Cruising by Templefjorden, Norway – Longyearbyen, Norway – Tromsø, Norway – Cruising by Black Glacier, Norway – Cruising Nordfjorden, Meloy, Norway – Åndalsnes, Norway – Cruising Romsdalfjorden and Isfjorden, Norway – Newcastle, England For more details: Visit L2217′ Rugged and Remote Spitsbergen’
Braemar’s five-night M2222′ Summertime Fjords in Five Nights’ cruise, departing from Edinburgh (Rosyth) on 29th July 2022. Prices start from £799 per person. Itinerary: Edinburgh (Rosyth), Scotland – Olden, Norway – Cruising Nordfjord, Norway – Cruising by Hornelen, Norway – Ålesund, Norway – Cruising Hjørundfjord, Norway – Edinburgh (Rosyth), Scotland For more details: Visit M2222′ Summertime Fjords in Five Nights’
Just a stone’s throw away from London Charing Cross lies the Great Scotland Yard Hotel. Once the home of the first police force, it has now been transformed into a boutique hotel providing luxury, comfortable surroundings for its business and leisure guests. This stunning hotel is part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection which consists of an exclusive portfolio of upper-upscale and luxury properties designed to captivate travellers seeking distinctive experiences.
The last dwellers of the property were the Metropolitan Police, who moved out in the late 19th Century. A grand Edwardian façade offers a tantalising insight into its former use, and it’s this impressive heritage that’s celebrated within the interiors, along with some of the habitual inhabitants and characters that stayed at her majesty’s pleasure.
The hotel offers 168 bedrooms with a ground floor dedicated to food and drink and a lower floor for events and fitness rooms. Earlier this year, an exclusive five-storey townhouse opened to provide presidential suite accommodation with all the seclusion of a townhouse property, with all the benefits of the hotel’s butlers and facilities.
What’s nearby Locating the hotel was a breeze, and some of London’s most iconic landmarks are literally on your doorstep. Trafalgar Square, the National Portrait Gallery and Buckingham Palace are easily accessible, while those looking for a tranquil spot to relax after a spot of retail therapy can head for the nearby St James’ and Green Parks. Westminster, Big Ben and the London Eye are a leisurely stroll away, and I’d recommend a walk along the Thames to take in the sights. Charing Cross tube station provides a convenient way to explore the rest of London’s attractions, and a helpful concierge team are also on hand to order a taxi.
Safety First As you would expect, travelling during COVID has meant that hotels have had to adapt to the new challenges of PPE and sanitising stations. The Great Scotland Yard has incorporated a one-way system along with clear signage and plenty of sanitiser stations. These are located at lift and restaurant entrances, and complimentary antiseptic wipes were provided in our room.
Welcome & First Impressions Arriving at the hotel, we collected our key from the lovely Christina, who provided a short narrative of the hotel’s history. Its lobby stands testament to its police roots, and a gallery of installations from the hotels’ collaboration with charity Koestler Arts brighten neutrally decorated walls. The charity was founded in 1962 to help prisoners express and build self-confidence while providing a creative voice to the disadvantaged. A mini-museum has been collated, consisting of historic law and order pieces, from natural hair judge wigs and wig tins through to truncheons, keys and uniforms.
Impeccable interior styling sees Tom Dixon lights paired with seating areas dotted with talking points such as a quirky rhino styled chair and library tables. From the lobby, guests have access to The 40 Elephants, The Yard and Sibín bar. While we visited, the Sibín bar was unfortunately closed, but hopefully, it won’t be too long before this secluded gem is reopened.
Room Corridors feature police-themed patterns, while each door includes an antique style keyhole design with keyless access. Our King Premium bedroom provided a generous 25 m2 space to call our home for the night. From our window, we could view the courtyard buildings behind, and we were not overlooked. The room incorporated a more subtle and neutral approach to the building’s heritage, and amusing touches such as key, fox and moustache hooks added little nostalgic reminders. In-room amenities included a drinks station with a hidden fridge, drawers, and glass/cup storage. A kettle and pod coffee machine provides all the hot beverage essentials, while a hidden fridge provided chilled water.
Tech included a TV providing access to hotel activities, menus and ordering system along with ample bedside USB points for those that love to travel with their gadgets. The bathroom features an intelligent TOTO toilet and sensor lighting to help light the way during night-time visits! Air Con and heat control allows you to stay in control of the temperature, and it remained consistent throughout our stay. Guests can switch on a ‘do not disturb’ light to ensure an uninterrupted sleep – handy for international travellers coping with jet lag and time zone travel.
The bathroom consisted of a retro marble vanity unit with art deco styled mirror and lighting, paired with rich, dark blue metro tiles. A walk-in shower gave the option of overhead rain showerhead or handheld shower. The bathroom offered a range of handy travel essentials along with aromatic guest amenities such as moisturiser, shower gel, shampoo and conditioner – handy, if like me; you forget the odd essential or two!
Elsewhere, ample storage, ironing boards, a hairdryer and a smart safe provide practical essentials. An area to sit and relax was small but ample for our requirements. We had two pieces of colourful artwork that helped break up a neutral decor scheme. Our king bed offered a generous amount of comfy sleeping space, and white bedding added a crisp, clean touch.
All in all, it was a comfortable and timeless space that provided all the comfort you’d expect from a Hyatt hotel. For bath lovers, you will need to enquire whether you can book a room with a bath as ours had a shower – fine for us, but might be an issue for bath fans.
Dining In
The 40 Elephants This retro and saloon styled cocktail bar features a central chandelier while the walls are adorned with forty glass etched portraits of the notorious females that made up London’s 40 Elephants gang. This shrewd team of ladies took stealing and bribery to a new level between the late 1800s and mid-1900s, often emptying shops, bribing wealthy households and transporting their ill-gotten gains around the country with military precision. A quirky list of cocktails (starting from £14), such as Handsome Polly (Mango wine, bergamot liqueur, Spanish brandy and carbonated perfume), Black Diamond whisky cocktail featuring a rich chocolate diamond and delicately spiced Indian Summer were masterfully created by a talented mixologist team. We opted to have dinner within the salon settings digging into a GSY beef burger and house-made charcuterie board to help counteract the deceptively strong cocktails!
The Yard We headed to The Yard not for obligatory exercise hour but for our breakfast. We were greeted by a welcoming team of waiting staff decked out in prison styled shirts and trousers and braces based on the original police officer uniform. The open kitchen features patterned tiles, while the dining space is finished in earthy tones with half brick and panel designs with feature arches. While we predictably opted for a Full English breakfast (£18), there was a wide choice of dishes from healthy and vegetarian options.
Come back again? Absolutely, we couldn’t fault the staff for their friendly, professional, and caring attitude throughout our stay. While the hotel has been curated to replicate its heritage, the staff provide the personable detail that brings the Great Scotland Yard alive.
A new fun and inclusive bike festival for all ages and abilities will be taking place in Ballater between Friday 23rd and Sunday 25th September.
The inaugural Thrive Bike is a weekend for mountain and road bikers, as well as non-bikers, to come and enjoy different trails, try out cycles from top brands and test their navigation skills in the Ballater Dash and Reliability Rides. Music and local food are among other highlights including children’s activities and a talk from storyteller and bike adventurer Lee Craigie of The Adventure Syndicate.
The Thrive Bike Team – Andy Lewis, Ben Allum, Richard Watts, Kate Stewart and Susan Allum – wanted to create a festival where everyone could enjoy the benefits of the local environment whilst reflecting the values of responsible tourism. Susan said:
“Biking is such an accessible sport, whatever your age or fitness level, and in Scotland, and particularly around us here in the Cairngorms, we have the most stunning trails. Thrive Bike is very much welcoming everyone, bikers and non-bikers, families and those of all abilities, to come and enjoy this beautiful area and a fun weekend full of activities. All of us behind this event know ourselves how good the natural environment is for our wellbeing, and we want to showcase the fantastic trails and scenery we have here but also the local food, hospitality and other brilliant businesses that make Ballater and the East Cairngorms such a great destination.”
The weekend’s activities include guided and self-guided rides, on road, gravel and trails and a chance to demo new bikes from top brands. Test your navigation and route planning skills in the Dash or take the Reliability Ride (26 or 125km) at your own pace, which the elite Alba Development Road Team will be joining, stopping for coffee and cake on the way, before relaxing at the end of the day with the film night or inspiring presentation from Lee Craigie of The Adventure Syndicate.
As well as a children’s play area, climbing wall, stunt show and disco; you can recharge from local food trucks on the greens; learn how to improve your health and wellness from a range of coaches, from foundation and personal training to breathing your way to better health and sports performance; and explore with Grampian Disability Sports how their bikes can open up biking for all abilities.
Learn too about how we can all enjoy the benefits of our outdoor space at the same time protecting the environment for future generations by chatting to Nature Scot and Forestry and Land Scotland.
Entry to Thrive Bike Festival is free, with tickets available for purchase for specific activities. Advance booking is necessary for certain events; demo bikes, guided rides, the talk and film night (full details at www.thriveballater.com). Bike hire will be available, but visitors are advised to bring their own where possible.
The Thrive Team’s aspiration is to – over time – build a recognised event of a world class standard, which balances our responsibilities towards the land, landowners, users, flora and fauna, while at the same time aiding the development of mountain biking in the area and protecting the environment for the benefit of current and future generations.
“This is Thrive Bike’s first year,” explains Susan, “And will be the foundation upon which to improve year on year.”
Profits from Thrive Bike will be invested in the local trail network, working with landowners, the Aberdeenshire Trail Association and existing, sanctioned projects.
Keen mountain biker Andy Lewis, who will also be at the event with his wellbeing business, Highland Breathwork, said:
“This event is exciting as not only is it, genuinely, inclusive, giving everyone at every level a chance to try new trails, bikes and meet like-minded people, but the profits are going back into local bike trails. The better we can make the trail network, the more we can all enjoy being in the outdoors, and make it work for bikers, landowners and locals for all to benefit and enjoy. The fact that the whole event is filled by people and businesses from Aberdeenshire or a connection with Ballater, is what makes it special, as well as knowing that it is so brilliantly run with the environment, community and local growth so front and centre.”
The event aims to bring adventure tourism back and away from its more common association with extreme adventure races, to allow people of all fitness and ages to enjoy the holistic benefits of being in the outdoors, as well as working Cairngorm National Park and Scottish Disability Sport, to open up the magic and value of the landscapes to different abilities.
Noku Hotels has announced the opening of Noku Phuket. It is the fourth Noku hotel after Noku Kyoto, Noku Osaka and Noku Maldives.
A 45 minutes’ journey from Phuket International Airport takes you to the newly built resort that is a hidden gem nestled on the hilltop away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by natural flora, the resort features amazing views of the Chalong Bay.
Noku Phuket has been lauded with the Green Mark Gold award recently from the Building Authority of Singapore for its green design and sustainable efforts.
There are a total of 91 spacious Villas and Lofts furnished in soft earthy tones that marries Thai modern architecture with the hotel’s hillside lush greenery.
Each roomy Loft features a large bathroom and balcony that overlook the surrounding forested hills. The spacious Hill Villas provide wonderful sea views over Chalong Bay, and each stand-alone Tree Villa is a private sanctuary nestled amidst a quiet green landscape. Unwind in your private pool in both the Hill and Tree Villas or have a relaxing soak in the sunken bath.
For dining, EMBRACE Restaurant offers guests the opportunity to enjoy mouth-watering Thai dishes using locally sourced ingredients. After a long day of exploring the sights and sounds of Phuket at near-by attractions, guests can wind down and sip cocktails at The Terrace bar while enjoying the panoramic view of Chalong Bay.
Designed around a reflective swimming pool, the Wellness centre features individual spa pavilions with curated massages, an Infra-red room and steam saunas. Other wellness facilities include a fully equipped gym and a yoga room.
The hotel provides complimentary shuttle services to nearby beaches, the Phuket Old Town and shopping malls.
From April, Acme Fire Cult, a new live fire concept from chefs Andrew Clarke and Daniel Watkins, will open its first permanent restaurant at 40FT Brewery in Dalston. A collaboration with Steve Ryan of 40FT, Acme Fire Cult offers a new approach to barbecue, where vegetables take centre stage and where food and drink are intrinsically linked; from using beer by-products such as yeast and spent grain to make ferments and hot sauces to using Acme’s favourite ingredients as adjuncts in beers, such as ancho chillies.
Acme Fire Cult began in the spring of 2021 after Andrew Clarke and Daniel Watkin’s successful summer residency at London Fields Courtyard in Hackney. Deriving from the Greek word akmē (the point at which something is at its best or most highly developed), the menu at Acme Fire Cult is an evolution of their London Fields Courtyard offering, but central to the collaboration with 40FT is the symbiotic relationship between the food and drink. The low waste menu will use beer brewing by-products to make ferments and sauces, such as their Acme ‘Marmite’, made from leftover beer yeast; Ancho hot sauce made with beer-soaked chillis, and beer molasses made by reducing down the ‘first runnings’ to be drizzled on desserts. Spent grain will be used for fermenting dish ingredients such as nukazuke pickles and even to make dog biscuits.
Photography by Steve Ryan, courtesy of Acme Fire Cult
The restaurant will have ten beer taps pouring fresh beers brewed on-site that will be paired with dishes. Special edition beers will be brewed each month by 40FT to pair with the menu, with ingredients that will later be used in cooking. The first of these is Acme Dark Lager, a schwarzbier with a malt bill of chocolate and dark malts with subtle complexity from ancho chillies.
In addition to 40FT beers, there will be a concise wine list from Holly Willcocks (ex Noble Rot, now co-founder of Half Cut Market, Camden) and a cocktail menu to pair with the food with classic negronis and margaritas and beer-based cocktails like their Michelada built on the Acme Dark Lager with Acme hot sauce and fresh lime.
Vegetables will be at the heart of the menu, alongside rare and native breed meat from regenerative farms such as Lyon Hill Farm and Swaledale Butchers, plus dayboat fish from sustainable suppliers such as Fin & Flounder and Bethnal Green Fish, in supporting roles. At Acme, inspiration is pulled from around the globe, evident in their grilling and fermentation techniques, as well as their heavy use of chilli and spices. The constantly evolving, seasonal menu will feature small plates such as Grilled Leeks & Pistachio Romesco, alongside the likes of Beetroots with a sweet & sour dill dressing, beetroot purée, pickled blueberries and sorrel, which is cooked in the ‘first runnings’ of 40FT Brewery Sunset Hazy IPA. The sweet, malty, beet-infused juice is reduced down to a sticky molasses, which is then used to glaze the beetroot as they’re smoked and semi-dehydrated over birch wood. As at London Fields Courtyard, there will be a selection of flatbreads available, such as Coal Roasted Celeriac, Mushroom-Kelp XO, Coco Bean Miso and Salsa Verde made with foraged mushrooms and hand-gathered seaweed; Dorset Crab, Bone Marrow, Jalapeno Verde and Salted Cabbage and Smoked Shortrib, Mustard Greens, Beef fat Crema and Ancho Koij, where the Shortrib is glazed with a molasses made from 40FT Eccles Cake Stout. Large plates will include new dishes such as ½ Herb Fed Chicken with Vadouvan Butter, Tropea Onion and Crème Fraiche, alongside some favourites from their London Fields Courtyard residency, such as a ‘Char Siu’ of Monkfish, which uses a sweet and sour molasses of (by-product) fermented beetroot juice, then is dusted in fennel pollen, and served with roast Jalapeño verde and grilled sea vegetables. There will also be a reduced menu of small plates and flatbreads served at the 40FT Brewery taproom across the yard, which will also be available to takeaway.
The restaurant will be opposite the 40FT Brewery tap room, seating 50 covers inside and 60 outside on the covered and heated terrace. A large custom made grill and smoker will stand proudly in the covered yard, serving Acme Fire Cult flavours whatever the weather. Inside, the space is pared back and dark with industrial elements. A bar seats six, behind which pickles and ferments line the walls.
Acme Fire Cult’s signature plant-based sauces and condiments will also be available for sale at the Dalston yard and online, along with a range of merchandise such as t-shirts and branded hardware.
During March, there will be a limited, outdoor only, teaser ‘First Fires’ menu available, with the full menu available from 1st April.
Of the partnership, Andrew Clarke said: “Steve Ryan and I have been friends for a long time, and I’ve previously cooked at the brewery as a guest chef. Daniel and I had been looking for a space for Acme in Hackney, and when the space at the yard facing 40FT came up, we had to seize it. The potential for the space is huge, and we want special events and guest chef dinners to become a big part of the offering. We’re really excited to be working with
Steve and 40FT. The synergy of the beer brewing process and menu creation is central to what we’re doing at Acme and encompasses all aspects of the menu. We can’t wait for people to try it.”
The space will be open Wednesday – Sunday and is also available for private hire.
The Spirit of Summer Fair returns this June 23-26, reimagined as an exciting pop-up event at the iconic Olympia London venue. This must-attend event showcases the finest accessories in home interiors and beauty & fashion, in addition to artisan food & drink. Everything visitors need to refresh the look and feel of their living spaces with elegance and discover beautiful new pieces for their wardrobes in one place.
Discover unique pieces from hundreds of independent brands and boutiques for stylish summer living. The Fair brings together an enviably curated collection of businesses for four days only; championing brands that are British made, ethically minded, and sustainably run. We are proud to support independent businesses and the wonderful people behind them and invite visitors to look beyond the mainstream to invest in well-made, long-lasting, and timeless products.
Be the first to uncover fabulous fashion, stylish soft furnishings, authentic accessories, and delicious delicacies. Pick up one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones, elevate a home décor and dazzle at social soirées.
Fair Director, Mary Claire Boyd, comments “After two years, we’re really excited to be bringing back the summer edition of this premium shopping event. We are proud to continue to support creative, small independent businesses, and enable visitors to once again source desirable pieces for summer from this unique seasonal offering. Products are selected for their style and quality, and all approved by House & Garden, so visitors will only find the very best, new collections at the Fair.”
A day out to enjoy with friends, visitors can browse a selection of boutiques, enjoy a sumptuous dining experience at the Summer Bistro and sip a glass of bubbly – or two – at the Louis Roederer Champagne Bar. There will also be a selection of interactive workshops designed to help visitors get the most out of summer living. These have previously included indulging in champagne tasting and getting creative with flower arranging.
Tickets to the Spirit of Summer Fair also permit entry to the co-located and much acclaimed Art & Antiques Fair Olympia. Here, visitors will discover a cornucopia of art, antique pieces and design spanning centuries, cultural movements, and continents. Timeless art and antiques meet mid-century modernism and contemporary design-thinking as our roster of dealers and exhibitors bring their finest treasures for showcase and sale.
Fair Highlights: ● Discover independent brands and boutiques ● Support sustainable and ethical businesses ● Enjoy a sociable day out with friends ● Louis Roederer Champagne Bar and Summer Bistro ● Interactive, complimentary workshops ● The Arts & Antiques Fair Olympia
Tickets start from £18 when booked online in advance. Opening Times: ● Thursday-Saturday: 10:30am – 6:00pm ● Sunday: 10:30am – 5:00pm
Gift ideas to help celebrate in style this Mothers Day
With Mothers Day just around the corner, we’ve put together a few delectable delights and experiences that are sure to impress the leading ladies in your life.
Darts Farm New Fizz & Truffles (£49 from dartsfarm.co.uk) Make mum feel really special with the ultimate pairing of truffles and fizz. This indulgent gift of artisan chocolate truffles, handcrafted at Darts Farm’s in-house chocolatier, Cow & Cacao, paired with a bottle of Devon sparkling rosé from their own Pebblebed Vineyards, packed in a beautiful wooden box, makes the perfect gift for Mother’s Day.
Darts Farm New Fizz & Truffles
Newly opened Greyfriars Hideaway in the heart of Oxford City Centre is offering luxurious stays to celebrate Mother’s Day this year. Its two exclusive-use Listed properties each have breath-taking historical features, stand hidden away in an unrivalled central location and come complete with a menu of optional concierge services too, and to honour mother figures this year, complimentary fresh flowers, fizz and chocolates will be included as standard for all stays throughout March. Greyfriars Hideaway has good availability throughout March and bookings for its Mother’s Day offer can be made at greyfriarshideawayoxford.com by quoting ‘MOTHER’S DAY’. An exclusive-use three night stay at The Masters Lodgings costs from £2800 on a self-catering basis for up to four people, while an exclusive-use three night stay at Cloisters costs from £4800 on a self-catering basis for up to eight people. The properties can be taken together from £7600 for a three night stay for up to 12 guests. Optional concierge services are charged as taken.
Greyfriars Hideaway
If you’re mothers ideal gift is a foodie looking to explore new and exciting dishes then prepare to tickle the taste buds with a choice of fabulous food kits from Hop & Roll (hopandroll.co.uk). There’s a variety of kits to choose from, and each has been carefully curated by talented Hop & Roll founder Rosh and celebrate the diverse flavours and spices of Sri Lankan cuisine. Kits come with the option of including the traditional Hopper pan, and we particularly liked the sound of The Island Life Kit (£54.99), which includes a veritable Sri Lankan feast, Arrack cocktails, curries and pan.
Hop & Roll
A quintessentially British delight, Hush Mayfair (hush.co.uk/afternoontea), in the heart of Mayfair, is offering a brand-new afternoon tea just in time for Mothering Sunday, with three tempting options, from classic and champagne through to gin cocktails.
Hush Mayfair
Available on Sunday 27th March, and then from Monday – Friday weekly from 2pm until 4.30pm, afternoon tea at Hush Mayfair is an elegant affair. Situated in the beautiful Brasserie or captivating Courtyard, indulge in delicate and flavourful finger sandwiches – think honey roast ham and mustard; oak cured salmon with chive crème fraiche; and traditional cucumber and butter on fluffy white bread. Scones are, of course, a must – at Hush Mayfair they are freshly baked and served with lashings of raspberry jam and clotted cream. Suitably sweet treats include honey financiers; zingy mini lemon meringue pies; indulgent cream-filled gold-leaf chocolate eclairs and rainbow macarons. Tea is courtesy of master blenders Harney & Sons, with a choice of flavours including Jasmine, Gunpowder Green, Rose Puchong, and a classic English Breakfast.
The Traditional Afternoon Tea is priced at £50 for two, whilst for an extra special event opt for the Gin & Jam Tea, priced at £70 for two and including a gorgeous gin cocktail each. Choose from the T N Tea – a perfect pour of Tanqueray Gin, Savoia Bitters, nectarine, gunpowder tea and Fever Tree Soda Water; whilst the Breakfast Negroni is a tantalising blend of Highclere Castle Gin, Belsazar Rose Vermouth, Select Aperitivo, English breakfast tea and orange marmalade. If you fancy fizz, the Champagne Tea is priced at £80 for two and includes a glass of Canard-Duchêne Cuvée Léonie Brut Champagne.
The Langham, London (palm-court.co.uk) has launched a brand-new afternoon tea collection, as part of a series of teas in Palm Court inspired by the nation’s favourite biscuits. An established member of London’s afternoon tea scene, Palm Court has served up some of the finest cakes and pastries for over a century, putting a modern twist on classic favourites.
The Langham, London
Priced from £65pp, guests can expect a truly decadent spread of delights, with the menu overseen by Michel Roux Jr. and created by Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett. The drink offering is just as impressive as the food, and guests can explore an extensive range of teas with the assistance of the tea sommelier. For an additional £10pp diners can try COPENHAGEN Organic sparkling tea or add a glass of English sparkling wine from Gusbourne for £15pp or a glass of Taittinger Brut Reserve for £21pp.
Raise a glass to the leading lady in your life this Mother’s Day and spoil her with the new “G & Tea” experience at Manetta’s Bar (flemings-mayfair.co.uk/fine-dining-london/manettas-bar), located within the opulent surroundings of luxury boutique hotel, Flemings Mayfair.
Manetta’s Bar
Priced at £45 per person, guests can enjoy an assortment of freshly baked patisseries and fragrant tea blends from East India Tea Company alongside a choice of one of three refreshing and botanical gin tipples, including Whitley Neill Raspberry Gin, Salcombe Gin Rosé and Nicholson London Dry Gin. Or there’s the option to treat her to all three gins for an additional £25.
Beautifully presented on an elegant tiered stand, delight in plain and fruit scones with thick clotted cream and homemade jams, followed by a selection of delectable mini patisseries and macarons whilst the expert bar team take you through the tasting notes of your gin and tonic selection. The “G & Tea” experience will run from Mother’s Day (Sunday 27th March), continuing every Wednesday – Saturday thereafter from 1pm – 4pm. Book the experience online here. Whether you’re booking in for Mother’s Day, or treating your leading queen in the coming months, elevate celebrations with Manetta’s indulgent “G & Tea”.
Luxury all-inclusive Ikos resort offers new hiking & biking experience along the Spanish coast
The team at Ikos Andalusia has introduced the new Ikos Golden Mile Experience, offering guests the opportunity to bike or hike, independently or with a guide, to the old town of Estepona, via a variety of scenic routes directly from the resort. The experience has been added to the portfolio of activities available with the Ikos Local Discovery scheme, designed to encourage visitors to explore their surroundings. Along with a multitude of carefully curated activities, guests can now discover the New Golden Mile or Nuevo Milla de Oro, a 13-mile route filled with luscious green parks, prime beachfront properties and stunning coastal views.
The Ikos Golden Mile
Stretching from San Pedro de Alcántara to the east of the town of Estepona along the Costa del Sol, the Ikos Golden Mile offers a myriad of trails to explore. Guests can choose to take the scenic route and head off on a solo adventure or hit the road with the whole family and a knowledgeable Ikos guide. With a limitless array of boutique shops, local cafes and Spanish fine dining along the way, the journey to Estepona promises an indulgent cultural experience. Families can pause to marvel at the beautiful blue and green coastline, flecked with striking Spanish architecture and extraordinary views of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and, on a clear day, the northern coast of Africa. Those who opt to travel by bike can look forward to a beautiful five-mile route, offering an easy, idyllic beachfront trail suitable for all levels of skill and fitness. For those looking to up their step count, hiking the Ikos Golden Mile by foot offers a challenging climb with a rewarding view. Benefit from a personal guide who can customise your journey to push boundaries or take it a little easier. Whether working up a sweat or soaking up the scenery, all participants will be enchanted by the old town of Estepona where the trek ends.
Once in Estepona
Famed for its traditional charm, the old town of Estepona is one of the most beautiful in Andalusia and is known as ‘The Garden of the Costa Del Sol’. Uncover the region’s charming corners with a guided tour, exploring the hidden jewels of Estepona. Potter through the quiet squares and quaint streets of the historic town, perusing the storybook white houses draped in overflowing flowerpots. Alternatively, the Poetry Route offers a romantic walk through the town centre, where the streets and pavements are lined with famous poems from around the world. Budding poets will be delighted to discover the art form celebrated in an array of languages, accompanied by famous sculptures and murals discoverable nearby. For history buffs, the Route of The Murals is a treasure trove of antiques and rich culture, with street art by international artists adorning the city walls and oversized works of art decorating the local buildings.
Discovery & Beyond
The curated routes in Estepona, allowing guests to explore the beautiful old town, are all part of the Ikos Local Discovery programme. Along with the Ikos Golden Mile Experience, the Local Discovery scheme at Ikos Andalusia encourages guests to expand their horizons and explore beyond the resort. With complimentary use of a MINI car for the day, tickets to the best museums in Malaga or free green passes for golfers at the exclusive Los Naranjos Golf Club all included in their stay. The hotel also offers the pioneering Ikos Dine Out initiative, allowing foodies to enjoy meals at some of the best restaurants across Marbella and Estepona, all within their all-inclusive experience.
New experiences to look forward to this year at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa as they reopen for the season
JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa will reopen its doors this week, ready to welcome visitors to experience its tranquil setting and luxurious services on its very own Venetian private island escape. As part of the reopening, the resort will be launching a series of new and updated experiences for guests to enjoy.
Five new experiences to look forward to this year at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa:
JW Venice VOGA Academy – traditional Venetian rowing The JW Venice VOGA Academy is the resort’s first sports school dedicated to traditional Venetian rowing. Guests will have the opportunity to learn the unique art of Venetian rowing, both around the Isola delle Rose island and on some of Venice’s most famous canals. Lessons of about 2 hours a day will have guests experiencing the lagoon as the locals do and learn about what was once the only vehicle for transit and transport in the city. The JW Venice VOGA Academy is open to individuals, couples and families and can be booked via the resort’s app.
JW Culinary Experiences – 10 new Michelin starred Chefs join the line-up Following the success of the previous years, JW Culinary Experiences is back from May 20th with ten new guest Michelin starred Chefs to showcase the best of Italian cuisine over a series of 10 culinary weekends. The package includes daily breakfast, a Friday night “Starry Aperitif” in collaboration with Chef Giorgio Schifferegger at Sagra Rooftop Restaurant, followed by a Saturday morning cooking class led by the guest chef at the Sapori Cooking Academy. On the Saturday night, guests will enjoy a four hand Michelin starred dinner at Fiola at Dopolavoro Venezia restaurant. Chef guest names in the line up include the two Michelin starred Massimiliano Mascia and Fabio Pisani, and one Michelin starred Paolo Griffa, Theodor Falser, Edoardo Fumagalli, Peter Brunel, Giuseppe Di Iorio and Luigi Lionetti.
New Kids Club for 2022 by Bricks 4 Kidz Families travelling to JW Marriott Venice in 2022 will be able to enjoy a series of new experiences, including a paddle court, a bowling alley, and an open-air cinema – where a 3-metre screen will play movie classics for the whole family to enjoy. The Kids Club has been redesigned for 2022 in partnership with ‘Bricks 4 Kidz’. The resort will offer its younger guests a program of activities around both the resort and the city, helping keep the little ones entertained.
Pop-up Gourmet Pizzeria JW Marriott Venice has partnered with Italian pizza maestro Renato Bosco: to bring a pop-up pizzeria to the resort exclusively for the summer 2022 season. Guests will be able to enjoy a selection of delicious hand-made pizzas that made the Veronese Chef famous.
Reopening of Fiola fine dining restaurant Michelin-starred Chef Fabio Trabocchi, widely celebrated among the world’s leading restaurateurs, returns to the helm of dining at JW Marriott Venice this year, and the resort’s fine dining restaurant Fiola at Dopolavoro Venezia will be reopening on the April 14th 2022. Guests can indulge in the finest Venetian cuisine with a superb selection of wines where the menu perfectly combines seasonal ingredients from the Rialto market in Venice and the Adriatic Sea, vegetables grown in the garden and locally produced olive oil. The historical building “Dopolavoro” welcomes up to 50 guests in an intimate and elegant setting. It is an ideal place to spend pleasant evenings in the cool gentle breezes of the lagoon.
Speaking about the new opening, Cristiano Cabutti, General Manager of the JW Marriott Venice, has said: “The whole team is very happy to be able to welcome back our guests starting from March 16th. We are particularly proud to present many new venues and features in 2022. We have wonderful, renovated facilities and specially designed to make our guests experience a stay they will not easily forget!”
JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa is an oasis away from Venice’s labyrinth of canals and bridges, with lush green spaces and wide-open areas where guests can spend days exploring the finest wellness and dining experiences on offer at the resort. All of this is just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Venice, making it just a short boat ride away to St Mark’s Square for those wanting to explore the city’s cultural attractions. Families will also be well looked after with a range of activities to enjoy, from the dedicated family pool to Venetian biscuit making at the Sapori Cooking Academy.
JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa’s 266 rooms and suites are split into two separate accommodation experiences; the JW historic main building with its rooftop pool and the JW Retreats – a cluster of residences set apart from the main hotel offering another level of seclusion with their own private gardens, with select properties including private pools.
Antillean has announced that it’s launching a new Brunch Menu, available every Saturday to help kick-start guests’ weekends. Chef Patron Michael Hanbury’s three-course set menu welcomes diners to his restaurant inspired by the idyllic islands of the Antilles on London’s Blackfriars Road, with a bright new menu of refreshingly delicious dishes sure to kick-start the weekend.
The Pan-Caribbean menu reflects the heritage and vibrant multi-cultural influences of the Antilles.
The menu starts with a choice of sharing platters, including Mackerel Escovitch and Julienne Pickled Vegetables and Watermelon & Heritage Beetroot Salad.
Individual main courses are a variety of signature seafood, meat, vegetarian and plant-based recipes, including Ribeye Steak with Mojo Dressing and Yuca Fries and Grilled Aubergine with stir-fried Ackee. Chef’s indulgent desserts feature a sharing selection of sweet treats such as Carrot Cake with Pineapple and Guinness Punch Ice-Cream.
For hungrier guests, supplement delicacies include Grilled Octopus with Mango, Cucumber, Mint and a Scotch Bonnet Emulsion and a selection of Ceviche such as Mojito Cured Grouper with Mint, Lime and Rum.
Antillean’s white coastal chic with its sleek interiors and high ceilings offer a cool welcome for guests seeking brunch in a clean and bright space in London’s SE1 postcode. And brunch here is about more than just the imaginative food. The restaurant hosts a resident DJ on the decks, and on select weekends, he is joined by the Caribbean jazz vibes of a live saxophonist, while a percussionist will also join in April.
After a welcome cocktail, keep the drinks flowing, with the bar serving an extensive selection of over 100 distinctive types of rum from around the world. Alternatively, choose another colourful cocktail from the exciting list, specially created to complement the dazzling dishes flying out of the kitchen.
Antillean sits proudly in a stunning listed 18th-century coaching house just minutes from Southwark and Waterloo stations.
Ducie Street Warehouse presents a brand-new disco brunch series, with a new menu and DJs every Saturday, and an impressive finale brunch party hosted on the last Saturday of every month. The disco brunch will launch on Saturday 26th February, featuring a new menu curated by Head Chef Andrew Green, which includes both savoury and sweet dishes.
Saturday is disco brunch time at Ducie Street Warehouse – and on the last Saturday of the month, the warehouse will present an elevated disco experience with a themed party paying homage to disco culture around the world; with inspired entertainment, alongside exceptional cocktails that will be exclusive to the party. The restaurant will be transformed into beautiful surroundings with sounds from the finest DJs from 1pm until 4pm, before the decks are moved back into the lounge where the party will continue.
February’s end-of-the-month disco brunch, and first of the party series, on Saturday 26th, is a nod to New York City’s glamorous brunch party scene, with a vogue performance from The Ghetto Collective, music from DJs Danielle Moore, Rebecca Never Becky and a live trumpet plus a special host. The warehouse will serve guests with exclusive NYC-inspired dishes, including a special Steak n Eggs, plus bottomless Cosmopolitan and New York Sours.
Launching at the party brunch later this month and taking pride of place on the menu thereafter, the savoury menu includes Tofu Scramble on Sourdough; Shakshuka; a signature Tower Stack complete with Grandad’s sausages, crisp dry cured bacon, Burford brown egg, melted American cheese and potato cake; Halloumi & Potato Cake Stack; Steak n Eggs; a special Rainbow Bagel, plus a variety of Eggs Benedict dishes and On Toast options which range from mushrooms, avocado, feta & chilli through to Burford Brown poached eggs with crushed avocado and sumac.
Sweet options include the evolutionary and Ducie Street Warehouse’s signature Gochujang Fried Chicken Waffles with maple sauce, peanuts, and sesame; Homemade thick pancake stack with maple syrup, blueberries, crushed pecans and lemon zest; Brioche French Toast and special Knickerbocker Glory with Northern bloc ice cream, Gooey cookie pieces, poached plums, whipped cream, cherries and wafers.
DSW disco brunch party is hosted at the restaurant every Saturday – with a selection from the menu available to order from the lounge. And on the last Saturday of every month, the warehouse will host an elevated themed brunch party with special entertainment. The brunch menu is available from 11am until 4pm, priced at £40 per person, which includes bottomless Cosmopolitan or New York Sours, and a delicious brunch dish. The disco ambience will continue into the night, on Saturdays, with DJs playing all evening in the lounge.
Travel Dine Relax 