Expanding Access to Breakthrough Preventive Health Scans to the West Midlands.
With extraordinary demand for preventive health checks in the UK, Neko Health opens its first Health Centre in Birmingham—accelerating its mission to shift healthcare from reactive treatment to prevention and early detection.
Neko Health, the preventive healthcare technology company co-founded by Hjalmar Nilsonne and Daniel Ek, continues its UK momentum with the opening of its first Health Centre in the West Midlands, officially launching today in Birmingham. Building on a period of rapid national growth, the company is now widening access to preventive healthcare beyond major capitals and has delivered six times more scans in 2025 than in 2024, with global signups now exceeding 300,000 people.
The Birmingham Health Centre opens just three months after Manchester and marks another important step in Neko Health’s regional rollout. Conveniently located at 10 Livery Street, steps from Snow Hill Station, the new location is designed to be easily accessible for people across the city and surrounding areas. At full capacity, it will be able to deliver up to 25,000 full-body scans per year.
At the heart of Neko’s offering is the Neko Body Scan. It is a 60 minute, comprehensive, non-invasive and radiation free health assessment that captures millions of health data points and is priced at £299. Using proprietary sensors alongside blood analysis, the scan assesses skin health including moles and marks, blood sugar levels to identify pre-diabetes risk, blood abnormalities, and risk factors linked to metabolic syndrome, stroke and heart attack. Results are delivered on site within minutes and discussed during an in-person consultation with a medical professional, providing members with personalised and actionable health findings.
The entire experience is completed in under an hour, and nearly 80% of members choose to rebook and prepay for their next scan the following year.
Hjalmar Nilsonne, CEO and Co-Founder of Neko Health, said:
“At Neko, we’re building a completely new healthcare experience — one that puts prevention first. We’ve been blown away by the response across the UK, and especially in Birmingham, where thousands of people have already joined our waitlist. That’s why I'm thrilled that our first new location opening in 2026 will be in this great city.”
Dr Nikita Kanani, Global Medical Director at Neko Health, said:
“In clinical practice, we see the consequences of late diagnosis every day. The ability to assess metabolic, cardiovascular, and dermatological risks in a single, non-invasive visit represents an important step forward in preventive healthcare. What makes the Neko Body Scan unique is that we bring multiple assessments together in one streamlined pathway, giving members a clearer picture of their health earlier and allowing clinicians to intervene sooner when needed.”
In its second year of operation in Stockholm in 2024, the data showed the following findings:
Neko Health is registered with the CQC (Care Quality Commission), ensuring the centres meet the national standards for healthcare quality and safety.
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The new independent restaurant is set to open in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter
Vieni, meaning “come in” will open at The Goodsyard on Pitsford Street, on Saturday 7 February, becoming the first hospitality venue to welcome guests into the landmark new development. Bookings are live at www.vieni.co.uk
Founded by Angelina Adamo and led by Charlotte Carter, Vieni occupies a 1,485 sq ft space with 40 covers and brings together a shared passion for hospitality and over a decade of industry experience.
The menu at Vieni is a personal reflection of Angelina’s heritage, inspired by everything her Nonna ever taught her. Fresh, bright and full of life, the dishes are designed to transport diners straight to Agrigento, Sicily. Mornings begin with coffee brewed in traditional moka pots, served alongside brioche and sharp lemon granita, while generous, unfussy plates such as whole sea bass, chargrilled beef ribs feature later on. There are nods to Sicilian street food throughout, with arancini, cannoli, and, for dessert, Angelina's father's Giovanni’s tiramisu soaked generously in Marsala.
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Spritzes and Italian liqueurs feature throughout the drinks list, with indulgent affogatos also on offer.
Vieni’s design is bold, feminine and inviting, created to feel like stepping into Nonna’s house. An open kitchen sits at the heart of the space, alongside bespoke Sicilian-inspired wallpaper, handmade plates by Moulded by Sarah Jane, a statement disco ball from Disco Heads, a Bertha charcoal oven, and a striking Ferrari-red coffee machine.
Chef-founder Angelina Adamo has spent more than ten years working across Michelin-starred restaurants, hotels and kitchens of every scale. She is also the founder of Tutto Apposto, which has grown from intimate private dining into a successful events and hospitality business, now operating the Circle Lounge at Birmingham Hippodrome. Vieni marks her first bricks-and-mortar restaurant.
“When I first viewed the site, sunlight flooded the space and I just knew,” says Angelina. “My very first thought was how perfectly a disco ball would catch the light! Vieni allows me to bring my Nonna’s cooking into a restaurant setting for the first time and seeing that vision realised in my first permanent space is incredibly special. I can't wait to showcase that Sicilian food isn't just pizza and pasta, it's so much more!"
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Charlotte Carter, restaurant manager, is a respected leader in hospitality and a passionate advocate for women in the industry. With a deep understanding of operations, people and guest experience, she has been instrumental in shaping Vieni from the earliest concept stages through to opening.
“We’ve been sketching ideas on napkins from the very beginning, menus, colours, the kind of team and atmosphere we wanted to create,” says Charlotte. “Vieni is about warmth, generosity and making people feel instantly at home. We’re so proud to be the flagship hospitality opening in The Goodsyard, it's so exciting to finally open the doors.”
Reservations are now live, bookable at : www.vieni.co.uk
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Birmingham Light Festival will return in February, shining a light on the very best local artists and performers
With just two weeks to go until Birmingham Light Festival returns (12-15th February), more details have been revealed on the programme alongside the Birmingham creatives involved, with even more opportunities for local people to be a part of this winter’s most magical event.
Setting the sky alight at Bullring, FORGED will feature performances from local spoken word artist, Amerah Saleh and Insurgent, a progressive metal band from the city. Performing against the backdrop of a giant flaming organ, these artists will be bringing a powerful contemporary voice to this year’s festival.
Brummies still have time to be at the heart of the festival, as Birmingham-born artist Anna West and Davi Callanan (idontloveyouanymore) bring their The Matter of the Heart project to Brindleyplace. It’s the last chance for local people to apply to be one of the live heartbeats featured as part of The Heartbeat of Brindleyplace. Those with a special story to tell only have until 1st February to apply to be part of the installation, which will be based in Oozells Square. Applications can be made via the Birmingham Light Festival website.
The programme of artworks also features Birmingham talent. Artist Jack Quddus (NeonCow) will be spreading the love on Lower Temple Street with My Heart Belongs in Birmingham and mural artist Richard O’Gorman will be unveiling this year’s legacy piece, Where the Trees Begin, in Edgbaston Village.
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Birmingham Light Festival has also added a brand-new event to the programme, with support from Birmingham City University (BCU) as the festival’s first ever Connectivity Partner. Love on the Line will invite festivalgoers to Birmingham New Street, during the festival, to write a love letter to the city. These heartfelt declarations will be on proud display in light, on the station concourse throughout the festival.
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Outside Birmingham New Street, Reunion will be the perfect greeting for those arriving into the city by train, inviting them to share in connection underneath the luminous colourful arches. Visitors will also be able to experience pop-up musical performances from Royal Birmingham Conservatoire students, all of which will be inspired by human connection.
The installations create a perfect path across the city, with visitors encouraged to use the Birmingham Light Festival map to explore on foot. Maps are available to download online, or can be picked up from the Festival Information Point at Bullring. For those that would prefer to explore with company, dog walks, group runs and walking tours are also available as part of the Festival events programme.
Festivalgoers heading into the city by tram, or looking to rest their legs between installations, can enjoy an exclusive travel offer thanks to West Midlands Metro. Visitors can get up to 15% off day tickets in Zones 1–4 and Zone 1 only, covering the full route from Edgbaston Village to Wolverhampton. To claim the discount, visitors can download the MyMetro app from the Google Play or Apple App Store and visit the Birmingham Light Festival website to access the code.
Over at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, visitors can join even more local organisations such as Fruit and Nut Village , Birmingham Open Spaces Forum, Sustainability WM and Brum Biosphere for Climate Conversations; a special climate change event featuring stalls, talks and activities running alongside festival artwork, Tipping Point.
Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor at Birmingham City University, the Festival’s Connectivity Partner, said:
“Birmingham Light Festival captures the imagination and energy of our city, bringing people together through creativity and shared experience. We’re proud to support an event that celebrates artistic innovation while transforming familiar spaces into something truly inspiring for residents and visitors alike. This speaks to our vision for Birmingham, as set out in our Strategy 2030, and reflects our commitment to creative partnerships that enrich city life, spark new ideas, and open doors for people from all backgrounds to connect, learn, and flourish.”
Alex Nicholson-Evans, Birmingham City Curator and Festival Director, said:
“There are just two weeks to go until Birmingham Light Festival is back and we can’t wait to light up the city once again. This year’s programme is packed with some really exciting artworks and events and we’re so proud that local artists, performers and organisations have played such a huge part in bringing the festival to life. We’re counting down the days until we can show everyone what we’ve collectively put together. See you there!”
Delivered by the city, for the city, Birmingham Light Festival is being brought to life by a network of local partners including Festival Producers, OPUS, volunteers from United By 2022, placement students from BCU, a whole host of businesses across the city and founding partners Colmore BID, Central BID, Southside District, Westside BID and The Jewellery Quarter BID.
For more information, visit: www.birminghamlightfestival.co.uk
The Most Luxurious Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
VALENTINE’S DAY, AT ITS MOST REFINED, IS NOT ABOUT GRAND GESTURES PERFORMED FOR AN AUDIENCE, BUT ABOUT INTENTIONAL INDULGENCE SHARED BETWEEN TWO PEOPLE WHO APPRECIATE BEAUTY, CRAFT, AND EXPERIENCE. LUXURY, AFTER ALL, IS NOT EXCESS FOR ITS OWN SAKE, IT IS THE PRIVILEGE OF CHOOSING THE EXCEPTIONAL. THIS VALENTINE’S DAY, THE MOST MEMORABLE CELEBRATIONS ARE THOSE THAT TRANSFORM TIME TOGETHER INTO SOMETHING EXQUISITELY RARE.
Begin with travel that feels effortless yet deeply considered. A private villa perched above the Amalfi Coast, a chalet in St. Moritz accessible by chauffeured transfer, or a discreet riad hidden behind unmarked doors in Marrakech offers more than scenery; it offers privacy. In these settings, mor nings unfold slowly, guided by sunlight, impeccable service, and the absence of schedules. For couples who value discretion, a bespoke itinerary curated by a personal travel designer ensures every moment feels organic rather than orchestrated.
Dining, too, becomes an intimate art form when elevated beyond the reservation. Consider a private chef preparing a tasting menu in your suite, each course inspired by shared memories or favourite destinations. Alternatively, after-hours access to a Michelin-starred kitchen,where the chef cooks solely for you - creates an experience that is both theatrical and deeply personal. Wine pairings drawn from a sommelier’s private cellar, or a vertical tasting of a beloved vintage, transform dinner into dialogue.
For those who equate luxury with wellness, Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to indulge together in restoration. Book a couple’s spa ritual that spans an entire after noon, complete with mineral baths, customised aromatherapy, and post-treatment Champagne. Even more decadent is a wellness retreat that replaces noise with silence: guided meditation at sunrise, tailored bodywork and nutrient-rich cuisine designed to leave you both radiant long after the day has passed.
Art and culture provide another avenue for refined romance. Private gallery viewings, museum tours led by curators, or a candlelit per formance by a string quartet in an architecturally significant space elevate Valentine’s Day beyond cliché. These experiences invite connection through shared curiosity and intellectual pleasure, an often-overlooked form of intimacy.
Above all, true luxury lies in exclusivity that feels natural rather than contrived. It is the handwritten note waiting on fine stationery, the perfectly timed surprise that reveals an intimate understanding of one another, the quiet confidence of knowing that nothing has been left to chance. Even moments of stillness, lingering over breakfast served on porcelain warmed just enough, or watching dusk fall from a terrace wrapped in cashmere become indulgent when they are unhurried.
For couples who treasure legacy, Valentine’s Day can also be a moment to invest in the future. A private viewing of a landmark property, a consultation with an art advisor to acquire a meaningful piece, or a tailored experience designed to mark a shared milestone elevates the day from celebration to significance. These gestures speak not only to romance, but to vision.
Finally, consider the luxury of the bespoke. Commission a jeweller to design a piece that tells your story, or arrange for a renowned per fumer to create a shared scent, blended exclusively for the two of you. These are not gifts meant to impress, but to endure.
In the end, the most luxurious Valentine’s Day is not defined by price or spectacle, but by intention and intrigue. It is about choosing experiences that reflect discernment, emotional intelligence, and a deep appreciation for life well lived, together.
To complete the experience and add a touch of dream-worthy indulgence, we turned to our friends at Harvey Nichols, who shared their curated recommendations for this Valentine’s Day.
Sirène Privée Parfum 75ml
The bold just got bolder. A fearless evolution of the Sirène legacy, Fragrance Du Bois Sirène Privée is a fragrance of striking contrasts, spicy yet smooth, seductive yet elevated. If Sirène was the bold original, Privée is her darker, more dangerous side. Created by per fumer Wesley Perumal, it is inspired by the evolution of the original Sirène, created to express a deeper, more provocative side of femininity, layered with mystery, seduction, and illusion.
£295.00
Renaissance Mask - Nutri-Active Brightening & Resurfacing Mask
This Oskia luxuriously textured AHA and enzyme exfoliating mask leaves the complexion smoother and illuminated.
This deliciously scented mask works hard to remove tired skin cells and boost cell regeneration and ATP energy without aggressively stripping the top layers of the epider mis.
£75.00
Floral-embellished satin box clutch
Self-Portrait satin box clutch.
Detachable chain shoulder strap, crystal and bead-embellished floral appliqués, pavé metal bow plaque, internal card slot, fully lined with push-lock fastening at top.
£400.00
Teese embellished voile top
Sister Jane voile top.
Paillette sequin embellishments, hang threads, halterneck, cascading ties at back neck, fully lined.
Concealed zip fastening at back.
£70.00
How Space, Wilderness and Restraint Define Modern Safari Luxury
There are places in the world where luxury arrives with a fanfare, and there are places like the Okavango Delta, where it reveals itself quietly, through space, silence and a profound sense of privilege. From the moment you approach by air, the Delta feels different. Channels of water glint in the sunlight, spreading across a patchwork of emerald islands and floodplains, creating a landscape that appears to breathe as it shifts with the seasons. Touching down on a narrow bush airstrip surrounded by nothing but grass and sky, the noise of the outside world falls away almost instantly.
The Okavango Delta sits at the heart of northern Botswana, one of Africa’s most stable and conservation-focused countries. Fed by rains that fall hundreds of miles away in the Angolan highlands, the Okavango River spills into the Kalahari Desert but fails to reach the sea. Instead, it fans out into the largest inland delta on earth, transforming arid land into a thriving wetland just as much of southern Africa begins to dry. This unique timing sustains one of the richest wildlife habitats on the continent and underpins the Delta’s reputation as a safari destination without equal. From classic tents overlooking quiet channels to secluded island retreats, every lodge and camp is positioned to take full advantage of this astonishing biodiversity, inviting guests to witness life in its most elemental form.
Luxury safaris here are shaped by this environment rather than imposed upon it. Camps are small by design, often with fewer than twelve tents, and built to blend into their surroundings. Canvas suites sit on raised wooden decks, shaded by ancient trees, their interiors defined by natural textures and understated comfort. Open fronts invite the bush inside, so mornings begin with birdsong and the soft movement of animals passing nearby. There is no sense of spectacle for its own sake. Everything feels considered, calm and quietly confident. Properties such as Zarafa Camp envelop guests in refined comfort while placing them in the heart of the Delta’s waterways; Abu Camp delivers close encounters with elephants splashing at the water’s edge; and the intimate Pom Pom Camp offers timeless tented luxury where crystal-clear channels thread through the bush.
Days follow a rhythm dictated by light and temperature. Early mornings bring game drives that take advantage of the cool air and heightened animal activity. The Delta reveals itself slowly at this hour, mist lifting from the floodplains as herds of elephants move through shallow water, their reflections stretching across the surface. Red lechwe splash effortlessly between islands, while giraffe browse in the distance and hippos grunt softly from hidden channels. The sheer density of wildlife is striking, but it never feels crowded. Botswana’s low-volume tourism model ensures that vast concessions are shared by very few vehicles, creating a sense of exclusivity that feels genuine rather than manufactured.
What sets the Okavango apart is the variety of ways in which the landscape can be explored. In addition to traditional game drives, many areas offer “mokoro” excursions, gliding silently through narrow waterways in dugout canoes guided by skilled local polers. From this low vantage point, the Delta feels intimate and immersive. Water lilies drift past, frogs cling to reeds, and fish ripple beneath the surface. The absence of engine noise sharpens the senses and creates moments of unexpected encounter, a sitatunga stepping delicately through papyrus or a fish eagle calling overhead. Some luxury lodges also arrange boat safaris, tracing channels that open onto wide lagoons where crocodiles bask and waterbirds cluster, a testament to the Delta’s extraordinary ecological diversity.
As the sun climbs higher, activity slows. Late mornings and early afternoons are designed for rest rather than movement, a concept that defines the true luxury of the Delta. Lunches are unhurried, often taken beneath shady trees or on open decks overlooking the water. Afternoons invite sleep, reading or quiet observation, time spent watching the play of light across the floodplain or the steady procession of wildlife passing at a distance. In camps where private plunge pools are part of the experience, it is not unusual to share the view with elephants or antelope moving through the heat haze.
As temperatures ease, the Delta stirs again. Afternoon drives build gently toward the drama of dusk, when predators become active and the air fills with anticipation. Lions are a constant presence here, often encountered resting on islands or moving confidently through shallow water. Leopards are seen with surprising regularity, while wild dogs, with their energy and intricate social bonds, provide some of the most memorable sightings the Delta has to offer. These encounters are never rushed. Guides position vehicles thoughtfully, allowing moments to unfold naturally rather than chasing a checklist of species.
The expertise of the guides is central to the experience. Many have grown up in the region, their knowledge shaped by both formal training and lived experience. They read tracks, interpret behaviour and share insights with a quiet authority that deepens understanding rather than overwhelming it. Stories of the land, its people and its wildlife are woven naturally into each outing, adding depth and context to every sighting. Walking safaris offer another layer of connection. On foot, the scale of the Delta shifts. Attention moves from big game to the smaller details that underpin the ecosystem, from insects and plants to the patterns left by passing animals. These walks recalibrate perspective and reinforce the idea that the Delta’s richness lies as much in its subtleties as in its icons.
Evenings in camp are defined by warmth and ritual. As the light fades, fires are lit and lanterns glow softly against canvas and wood. Sundowners are taken in carefully chosen spots, a simple drink enjoyed as the sky deepens in colour and the sounds of the bush emerge. Dinner is social but relaxed, with menus that balance refinement and comfort. Freshly baked bread, locally sourced produce and thoughtful presentation reflect a level of care that feels personal rather than ostentatious. Conversations flow easily, shaped by shared experiences and the absence of distraction.
For travellers from the UK, reaching the Okavango Delta is far more straightforward than its remoteness suggests. Most journeys route via Johannesburg or Cape Town, with frequent overnight and daytime flights from London Heathrow and other major UK airports. From Johannesburg or Cape Town, a direct regional flight of around two hours connects to Maun, the Delta’s main gateway, where small aircraft or helicopter transfers await. On arrival, guests are met by their safari operator and transferred by light aircraft into the Delta itself. These short flights provide a breathtaking introduction to the landscape, revealing the full scale and complexity of the waterways below before landing on private bush airstrips close to individual camps. From start to finish, the journey is seamless and well managed, allowing the transition from city to wilderness to feel effortless.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of luxury safaris in the Okavango. Botswana’s commitment to conservation ensures that tourism supports wildlife protection and local communities rather than compromising them. Camps operate with a light footprint, relying on solar power, minimising waste and working closely with nearby villages. Many employ and train local staff, creating long-term opportunities and fostering a strong sense of custodianship. For guests, this adds a layer of meaning to the experience, knowing that their presence contributes directly to the preservation of this remarkable ecosystem.
Leaving the Okavango is always tinged with reluctance. On the final morning, the familiar rituals take on added significance, one last drive, one last coffee enjoyed as the sun lifts over the floodplain. From the air, the Delta returns to abstraction, a living mosaic of water and land that feels almost unreal. Yet what lingers most is not the imagery, but the feeling of having experienced something rare and deeply grounding.
Many areas offer mokoro excursions; gliding silently through narrow waterways in dugout canoes guided by skilled local polers
Luxury safaris in the Okavango Delta are not about excess or spectacle. They are about access, authenticity and connection. It's about moving at the pace of the land, engaging all the senses, and rediscovering a relationship with the natural world that feels both humbling and restorative. In a world increasingly defined by noise and speed, the Delta offers a different kind of richness, one that stays with you long after you have returned home. The Okavango does not shout its value; it simply proves it.
Introducing the SWEALTHY BOOK CLUB, a new regular feature where our book gurus curate the top ten titles from each edition’s genre.
SWEALTHY BOOK CLUB
A new year brings a clean slate and with it, a subtle pull toward something more considered. As resolutions soften into reflection, the right ideas have the power to reshape how we think, work and live. Introducing the SWEALTHY BOOK CLUB, a new regular feature where our book gurus curate the top ten titles from each edition’s genre. And just to add to the joy, you can purchase the books via our website at an exclusive price.
For our February/March edition, the focus is self-help and personal development. Ten stand out reads that cut through the noise, offering fresh perspective, intelligent insight, and the kind of motivation that inspires lasting change.
Mel Robbins
In The Let Them Theory, Mel Robbins distils a powerful mindset shift into two deceptively simple words. The premise is clear: much of our stress, frustration and self-doubt stems from trying to control people and outcomes beyond our reach. Robbins argues that learning to “let them” frees energy for what truly matters... Your goals, values and well-being.
Drawing on behavioural science, psychology and personal anecdote, she applies the theory across work, relationships, confidence, and ambition. Practical, direct and highly accessible, this is a book designed to challenge people-pleasing tendencies and restore a sense of personal agency with clarity and conviction.
£22.99 (hardback)
Hal Elrod
The Miracle Morning centres on the idea that how you start your day shapes everything that follows. Hal Elrod’s S.A.V.E.R.S. method; Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading and Scribing offers a structured yet flexible morning routine designed to improve focus, mindset and productivity.
Updated editions expand the concept to include evening habits and long-term fulfilment, reinforcing that change is less about doing more and more about becoming more. Practical and motivational, the book appeals to readers seeking routine, discipline and intention, positioning small daily rituals as the foundation for sustained personal transformation.
£12.99
Mark Manson
Mark Manson’s The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is a blunt antidote to relentless positivity culture. With sharp humour and refreshing honesty, Manson argues that happiness comes not from avoiding discomfort, but from choosing what genuinely deserves our care and attention.
Drawing on psychology, philosophy, and personal experience, he encourages readers to confront limitations, accept uncertainty and take responsibility for their values. Beneath the irreverent tone lies a thoughtful meditation on meaning, resilience and emotional maturity, one that resonates with readers seeking realism over platitudes and substance over superficial motivation.
£18.99 (hardback)
Prof Steve Peters
The Chimp Paradox presents a practical framework for understanding and managing the emotional brain. Prof Steve Peters introduces the “Chimp Mind”; the impulsive, emotional part of our psyche and explains how it can sabotage happiness, confidence and success if left unchecked.
Using accessible language grounded in neuroscience, Peters offers tools to manage thoughts, emotions and behaviour more effectively. The book combines explanation with exercises, making it as practical as it is illuminating. Widely adopted in elite sport and business, it’s a valuable guide for anyone seeking greater emotional control and mental clarity.
£14.99
Robert T Kiyosaki
Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad remains a cornerstone of personal finance literature. Framed around lessons learned from two father figures; one financially conservative, the other entrepreneurial, the book challenges traditional beliefs about money, work and education.
Kiyosaki emphasises financial literacy, asset-building and the importance of making money work for you rather than the reverse. While opinions on its advice vary, its core message about mindset and long-term thinking continues to resonate across generations. Decades after publication, its influence endures as a gateway text for financial independence.
£13.99
Robin Sharma
In The 5 AM Club, Robin Sharma champions early rising as a gateway to productivity, creativity and inner calm. Delivered through a fictional narrative, the book outlines a structured morning routine designed to protect focus and maximise personal growth before the demands of the day take over.
Sharma blends neuroscience, leadership principles and motivational philosophy to argue that consistent early mornings create long-term advantages. While the storytelling approach may divide readers, the underlying message is clear: discipline, intentionality and ownership of time are essential tools for high performance in a distracted world.
£16.99
James Clear
Atomic Habits explores how small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable results over time. James Clear breaks down habit formation into a clear, actionable framework rooted in behavioural science, making complex psychology easy to apply.
Concepts such as habit stacking, the two-minute rule, and environment design are presented with clarity and supported by real-world examples. Rather than focusing on goals, Clear emphasises systems; arguing that identity-based habits create lasting change. Practical, evidence-led and highly readable, this is a definitive guide for anyone seeking sustainable improvement across work, health and relationships.
£18.99
Steven Bartlett
Despite its title, The Diary of a CEO is less about business tactics and more about enduring principles for success and fulfilment. Steven Bartlett draws on insights from his entrepreneurial journey and thousands of podcast interviews to explore themes such as self-belief, discipline, resilience and purpose.
Rooted in psychology and behavioural science, the book examines what consistently underpins excellence across industries and backgrounds. Thoughtful and reflective, it speaks to readers interested in personal growth as much as professional achievement, positioning mindset as the true foundation of long-term success.
£20.00 (hardback)
Vex King
Good Vibes, Good Life blends personal storytelling with spiritual guidance, centred on self-love, mindfulness and emotional healing. Vex King draws on his own experiences of adversity to offer accessible practices for improving mindset and wellbeing.
Topics include meditation, energy, manifestation and re-framing limiting beliefs, all delivered in an encouraging, conversational tone. While firmly rooted in spiritual self-help, the book’s emphasis on compassion, positivity and intentional living has resonated widely. It’s best suited to readers seeking gentle motivation and a more intuitive approach to personal development.
£19.99 (hardback)
Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
Presented as a dialogue between a philosopher and a student, The Courage To Be Disliked introduces Adlerian psychology in a clear and engaging way. Its central message; that happiness comes from self-acceptance, personal responsibility, and freedom from people-pleasing, is both challenging and liberating.
The book encourages readers to set boundaries, let go of external validation, and choose their own path. Thought-provoking rather than prescriptive, it invites reflection on how beliefs shape behaviour. Calm, philosophical, and quietly radical, it offers a compelling framework for lasting emotional independence.
£10.99
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Yes, timber-framed houses still lean gently towards one another, and the River Avon continues its steady course through the centre of town, but what makes the town so compelling is just how comfortably it exists in the present. History is part of daily life here rather than something set apart; it’s woven into the fabric of modern cafés, independent shops, riverside leisure, and evenings at the theatre.
This balance is especially noticeable each spring during Shakespeare Week, an annual national celebration that will next take place from 23–29 March 2026. Across the UK, this initiative encourages schools and families to explore Shakespeare through performance and creativity. Throughout Stratford-upon-Avon, this feels less like a standalone event and more like a natural extension of the town’s cultural life. Workshops, talks, and trails slot easily into everyday routines, adding a vibrant buzz without disrupting the steady rhythm of the town.
A walk through the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon makes this abundantly clear. Historic façades line the streets, but behind them are modern spaces that feel current and relaxed. A Tudor frontage might lead to a café serving carefully sourced coffee and seasonal pastries, but inside exposed beams sit comfortably alongside contemporary furniture, laptops, and conversations about theatre bookings or weekend plans. The past is visible everywhere, but it never dominates. Instead, it adds character and continuity, grounding modern life rather than slowing it down.
The River Avon plays a central role in shaping the daily pace. Early mornings are calm and purposeful, with rowers gliding across the water and joggers moving along the towpath. As the day unfolds, the river becomes more social. Friends meet on benches overlooking the water, families spread out picnic blankets, and punts drift downstream, hired from Avon Boating (www.avon-boating.co.uk). Life along the river feels unhurried, offering space to stop, talk, and linger.
Riverside pub gardens are part of this rhythm. On warmer days, tables fill with a mix of locals and visitors, conversations stretching well into the afternoon. Stratford-upon-Avon is a popular destination, but it absorbs visitors without losing its sense of normality. Quieter streets, familiar faces, and everyday routines remain intact, allowing local life to continue alongside tourism with ease.
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The town’s cultural centre of gravity is the renowned theatre company, the Royal Shakespeare Company (www.rsc.org.uk). On performance evenings, the atmosphere shifts slightly. Restaurants become busier earlier, pavements fill with people heading towards the theatres, and the town feels quietly animated.
However, the RSC’s influence extends far beyond the stage. Alongside Shakespeare’s plays are new productions, modern interpretations, and community-led projects that keep the programme fresh and relevant. Education and outreach work connect the theatres to local schools and groups, reinforcing the idea that culture within Stratford-upon-Avon is open and shared.
Away from the theatres, independent businesses help define the town’s modern character. Monsoon Estates Coffee Co. (www.monsoonestates.co.uk) is known for its carefully roasted beans and loyal following. Bensons House of Tea (www.bensonsstore.co.uk) offers a wide range of blends that feel both traditional and contemporary. Gem Pantry (www.thegempantry.co.uk) specialises in elegant, understated jewellery, while Hobsons (www.hobsonsantiques.co.uk) mixes antiques with modern design in a way that feels current rather than nostalgic.
Markets add to this sense of everyday vitality. The weekly Rother Street Market (www.stratford.gov.uk/markets) supplies fresh produce, flowers, and artisan food, while the Waterside Upmarket (www.stratforduponavonbid.co.uk/markets) focuses on crafts, design, and independent makers. These markets are as much about meeting people as they are about shopping, creating regular moments of connection at the heart of town life.
Another strength of Stratford-upon-Avon is how quickly town life gives way to countryside. Within a short walk or cycle, historic streets open out into fields, lanes, and footpaths. The Warwickshire countryside and the northern edge of the Cotswolds are close enough to make rural walks, cycling routes, and pub lunches part of everyday life rather than special occasions. This easy access to green space adds to its appeal, particularly for those looking to balance cultural life with time outdoors.
Community is a defining feature of the town. Schools are well regarded and closely linked to neighbourhood life. Parks host sports clubs, informal gatherings, and seasonal events that feel low-key and inclusive. Shakespeare Week, river festivals, and winter lights mark the year, but the strongest sense of belonging comes from daily interactions: familiar faces in cafés, regular walks along the river, and shared routines that give the town its shape.
For those considering a move, Stratford-upon-Avon offers a quality of life that seems increasingly difficult to find elsewhere. The town is walkable, well-serviced, and socially connected without feeling closed or insular. Life here can be busy or quiet, cultural or outdoor-focused, often within the same day.
Shakespeare’s presence is, of course, ever-present without completely dominating the town. During Shakespeare Week his legacy becomes a starting point for creativity rather than a fixed point of reference, encouraging participation and curiosity, and reflecting a town that values living culture over static heritage.
Whether strolling by the river, browsing independent boutiques, or joining the creative buzz of Shakespeare Week, there’s a sense that every corner of Stratford-upon-Avon holds a story, and every day is an invitation to be part of it. History and modern life flow together effortlessly, creating a lifestyle that feels alive, elegant, and unmistakably welcoming.
Further information on workshops, events and news on Shakespeare Week 2026 can be found at:
From the moment we stepped into Cuubo on Harborne High Street, Birmingham, the tone was set.
From the moment we stepped into Cuubo on Harborne High Street, Birmingham, the tone was set. A warm welcome, seamless service and menus presented without fuss made for an effortless start. The interior echoed the restaurant’s philosophy: clean, minimalist Scandi-inspired styling that feels contemporary yet comforting, immaculately considered and immediately inviting.
We started with a bottle of water (it is dry Jan after all) and Cuubo’s house-baked sourdough, served with rich butter and crisp nutritional yeast; an early signal of the kitchen’s thoughtful, ingredient-led approach. Details mattered here, from the daily-baked bread to the elegant Italian-imported tableware and glassware, lending a quiet refinement to the experience.
Starters followed after a brief consultation with the team - a deeply flavoured onion soup topped with toasted pine nuts and chives, alongside a beautifully executed sausage raviolo with ragu and parmesan espuma. Both dishes celebrated restraint and balance, delivering confidence through simplicity.
For mains, sea bream arrived paired with courgette, nduja, parsley, and sweet tomato, while the chicken breast was served with pancetta cream, parsley, and potato. Each plate was carefully composed, allowing high-quality ingredients to take centre stage without unnecessary embellishment.
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere remained peaceful and comforting - a space designed to encourage unhurried dining and easy conversation.
Desserts were equally exquisite: roasted pineapple with pineapple sorbet, and an Amalfi lemon custard with poppy seed and lemon custard ice cream; fresh, vibrant, and thoughtfully layered.
Coffee closed the evening, accompanied by a conversation with owner and chef Dan Sweet. His warmth and passion were unmistakable as he spoke about ingredient provenance, from Amalfi lemons to oils and tomatoes sourced directly from Italy. That personal connection added a final, memorable flourish.
Cuubo delivers refined, ingredient-driven cooking with genuine hospitality and a relaxed confidence. A thoughtful addition to Birmingham’s dining scene and one we’ll be returning to!
HOW DANIEL SWEET’S BRITISH-ITALIAN VISION HAS TRANSFORMED A 20-COVER RESTAURANT INTO ONE OF BIRMINGHAM’S MOST TALKED-ABOUT DINING DESTINATIONS.
It is only two years this April since Daniel Sweet opened the doors to Cuubo, yet in that short time the 20-cover restaurant on Harborne High Street has made a striking impression. What began as a modest former takeaway has quickly become one of Birmingham’s most talked-about dining rooms, drawing not only local devotees but an increasingly international clientele.
Sweet’s culinary outlook was shaped long before Cuubo existed. Childhood summers spent in Italy with his family instilled an early respect for fresh, seasonal produce; an ethos that now underpins the restaurant’s approach. With a British grandfather and Italian grandmother, his cooking naturally sits at the intersection of both cultures.
“My British Grandad and Italian Nan are responsible for kickstarting my cooking style,” Sweet explains. “From a fry-up cooked in extra virgin olive oil to my Nan’s lasagne, they taught me how to respect food. I learned how to prepare it from the age of six, and when I first visited the countryside in Campagna aged eight, the quality of the produce and the flavours left a lasting impression.”
That philosophy translates directly to Cuubo’s menu, which follows the seasons in both Italy and England to source the best possible ingredients. Dishes such as chilled lemon custard, sausage ravioli, and onion soup have emerged as current favourites, each allowing simplicity and produce quality to take centre stage. Sweet describes the style as “British Italian”, a reflection of both heritage and experience.
Summer remains his favourite season, not only for nostalgia, but for the abundance and intensity of its fruit. “It’s when ingredients really speak for themselves,” he says.
The same attention extends beyond the plate. Cuubo’s interiors have been thoughtfully designed to mirror the food; calm, considered, and precise. “Every detail makes a difference, Sweet notes, from tableware to layout".
At a time when many Michelin-listed restaurants are closing their doors, Cuubo continues to thrive. Early praise from Jay Raynor helped place it firmly on the map, but Sweet credits success to a relentless focus on the guest experience; service, value, seasonality, and quality. Reservations can be competitive at weekends, but midweek diners are often rewarded with a table and a reminder of why Cuubo has become one of the city’s most compelling culinary addresses.
250g caster sugar
250g egg yolk
400ml milk
500g ricotta
(Shop bought clotted cream ice-cream if you don’t have an ice-cream maker)
250g egg yolk
250g caster sugar
One litre whole milk
Peel of three lemons
Chopped pistachios
Roasted marzipan / 1 pack
Micro fennel
Mixed edible flowers
Chopped lemon segments
Whisk together sugar and egg yolk, add milk and ricotta using a hand blender to combine.
Heat over a medium heat until the temperature reaches 85, chill straight away. Once cold, churn in a ice-cream maker and serve when ready.
Whisk egg yolk and sugar, combine with milk add to sauce pan.
Add lemon peel and cook until the custard reaches 85, chill straight away leaving the lemon peel in the custard.
Once ready strain off the lemon peel and place in a jug until ready to serve.
Grate the marzipan onto a tray lined with greaseproof paper, roast in the oven on a low temperature eg 140 stirring every few minutes until you have an even golden colour.
Remove from the oven and break up with a whisk until you have small pieces of marzipan crumb (be sure to do this while its hot, once cold the marzipan will become very hard).
Add 1 tablespoon of diced lemon segments to a bowl.
Cover with lemon custard, add chopped pistachio and roasted marzipan to the top.
Finish with micro fennel and mixed flowers and top with ice-cream.
New developments. Prime locations. Expert management.
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If you’re ready to stage smarter, Swealthy Staging can help. Visit swealthystaging.com to see how purposeful staging can transform your property and attract the right buyers.
If you’re ready to stage smarter, Swealthy Staging can help. Visit swealthystaging.com to see how purposeful staging can transform your property and attract the right buyers.
Swealthy Staging specialise in both interior design and property staging, offering expertise that helps clients achieve the right balance between lifestyle-focused living and market-driven presentation. In this article, we explore the distinctions between these two disciplines, why they matter, and how our team can guide you towards a service which aligns with your goals.
When it comes to transforming a home, the terms interior design and property staging are often used interchangeably, yet they are far from the same thing. While both involve careful arrangement of spaces, furniture, and décor, the goals, approaches, and outcomes of each service differ significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial for homeowners, property investors, sellers, and estate agents who want to make informed decisions about their property.
Interior design is the art and science of enhancing a living space to reflect the personality, lifestyle, and needs of the owner. Unlike property staging, interior design is not focused on selling a home, but about creating a space that supports long-term living.
Key elements of interior design include:
1. Personalisation: Every choice in interior design, from colour schemes and furniture selection to finishes and layout, is tailored to the client’s tastes. The goal is to create a space that feels uniquely theirs.
2. Functionality: Interior designers consider how people use their spaces on a daily basis. Storage solutions, flow, lighting, and ergonomics all play critical roles in designing a home that is both beautiful and practical.
3. Emotional Connection: A well-designed home evokes an emotional response in its occupants. It reflects their personality, tells their story, and becomes a place where memories are made.
4. Long-Term Investment: Interior design is an investment in lifestyle. It is about creating a home to meet a client’s evolving needs over years, rather than just appealing to others.
In essence, interior design is about living in a space, making it functional, comfortable, and visually pleasing for those who call it home.
Property staging, on the other hand, is a strategic approach aimed at selling or leasing a property. The purpose of staging is to present a home in its best light so that it appeals to a wide audience of potential buyers or tenants.
Key features of property staging include:
1. Depersonalisation: Unlike interior design, staging removes personal items such as family photos and memorabilia. This enables prospective buyers to visualise themselves in the space rather than feeling like a visitor in someone else’s home.
2. Neutral Aesthetics: Staging often relies on neutral colour palettes, minimalistic décor, and carefully curated furnishings to create a broad appeal. The aim is to make the property look stylish yet universally inviting.
3. Strategic Styling: Stagers highlight the home’s best features, emphasise the flow of rooms, and make spaces appear larger and more functional. Small touches like rearranging furniture, adding art, or placing a few decorative items can dramatically improve buyer perception.
4. Short-Term Impact: Property staging is a temporary, market-driven exercise. Once a home is sold, the staging items may be removed or repurposed.
Ultimately, staging is about marketing a space, helping potential buyers connect with it emotionally while leaving them free to imagine living there.
Understanding the difference between interior design and property staging comes down to three main contrasts:
Interior design personalises a home for the occupant, reflecting their tastes, lifestyle, and preferences.
Property staging intentionally depersonalises the space to appeal to a wider audience.
Interior design focuses on creating spaces for daily living, comfort, and functionality.
Property staging focuses on presenting a property to sell, highlighting potential, scale, and versatility.
Interior design fosters an emotional connection for the homeowner, creating a sense of belonging.
Property staging cultivates emotional neutrality, allowing buyers to imagine their own lives without distraction from the owner’s personal style.
These differences are subtle but significant. Misunderstanding them can lead to decisions that either compromise the home’s liveability or limit its market appeal.
Choosing the right service (interior design or staging) has real implications for both lifestyle and investment.
For homeowners who plan to live in their property for years, interior design is the clear choice. It ensures that spaces are tailored to personal needs and functional for daily routines. A home that is aesthetically pleasing and practical enhances quality of life and can even increase long-term property value.
For sellers or estate agents, staging is an essential tool to accelerate sales and maximise return on investment. Staged homes tend to sell faster and often command higher prices because they allow buyers to see the potential of a property without being distracted by the previous owner’s personal style. Staging turns an ordinary property into a marketable showpiece.
By clearly distinguishing between the two, clients can make smarter decisions: investing in long-term living solutions with interior design or achieving short-term market success with staging.
When deciding between interior design and property staging, consider your primary goal:
If your focus is long-term living, comfort, and personal expression, interior design is the solution.
If your focus is selling or leasing, attracting buyers, and maximising market appeal, property staging is the key.
For many homeowners and property investors, the ideal strategy may even involve both: a home designed for personal enjoyment but with staged elements to enhance resale value.
Swealthy Staging’s expertise makes navigating these choices simple and stress-free. We understand lifestyle and marketing needs. This means we can advise homeowners on subtle upgrades that enhance liveability while also boosting market value if they decide to sell in the future.
We know how to transform a home into a stylish, functional space for daily life and can also shift it into a strategically staged property to appeal to buyers. This dual perspective ensures no detail is overlooked. Plus, our clients benefit from our comprehensive knowledge, creative solutions, and meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s crafting a personalised sanctuary or creating a market-ready property, we deliver results that exceed expectations.
If you’re ready to move forward with clarity and confidence, Swealthy Staging is here to help.
READY TO STAGE YOUR PROPERTY?
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Abberley, The Manor at Abberley offers an elegant retreat for those seeking a refined British countryside escape.
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Abberley, The Manor at Abberley offers an elegant retreat for those seeking a refined British countryside escape. Proudly holding a prestigious 5-star AA rating and awarded two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence, the property combines exceptional dining with warm, attentive hospitality, set against the timeless beauty of the Worcestershire countryside.
This charming 17th-century gastro pub with rooms blends historic character with contemporary comfort, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. A true destination for food lovers, the kitchen is led by chef Alex Boghian, whose experience includes helping several establishments secure a place in the Michelin Guide. His menus showcase beautifully presented, imaginative pub dishes that celebrate quality ingredients and seasonal flavours.
Inside, guests can unwind by the wood-burning stove in the cosy front room, while a spacious dining area to the rear opens onto a terrace and lawn, offering a peaceful setting for leisurely lunches and evening drinks. This seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces also makes The Manor an exquisite choice for intimate weddings, private dining, and exclusive gatherings looking for a refined countryside setting.
The nine individually styled bedrooms are located on the first floor and feature original oak beams, soft furnishings and views across rolling hills and woodland. A leisurely breakfast is included, with a choice of a full English or vegan feast, eggs royale, avocado on toast or wholesome granola bowls.
From the doorstep, guests can wander along scenic country footpaths or venture further afield to the Malvern Hills, where panoramic views reward the climb. Nearby Worcester offers cultural appeal with its magnificent cathedral, before returning to The Manor to enjoy a locally brewed ale and a thoughtfully curated menu of elevated pub classics and expertly grilled dishes.
enquiries@themanorabberley.co.uk
TELEPHONE
In the upper echelons of British society, luxury is no longer defined by excess alone.
In the upper echelons of British society, luxury is no longer defined by excess alone. It is defined by access, intelligence, and control. As the country’s wealthiest individuals refine how they live, travel, and do business, helicopter chartering has emerged as one of the most powerful, yet understated, symbols of modern privilege.
More than a mode of transport, helicopter chartering in the UK represents a philosophy: one that values time over distance, discretion over display, and experience over convention.
For ultra-high-net-worth individuals, time is not merely valuable, it is non-renewable. Helicopter chartering addresses this reality with surgical precision. Where road and rail introduce unpredictability, helicopters deliver certainty.
A journey from Mayfair to a country residence in the Cotswolds can take under half an hour. A same-day round trip between London and Manchester, Liverpool, or the West Country becomes not only feasible, but effortless. Even Scotland, long considered remote, is suddenly within comfortable reach.
This ability to compress geography fundamentally reshapes how affluent individuals structure their lives. Business meetings, family commitments, leisure pursuits, and international travel can coexist within a single day, without compromise.
Commercial aviation, even in first or private class terminals, still involves queues, fixed schedules, and exposure. Helicopter chartering removes friction entirely.
Clients depart on their own timetable from private helipads, executive airports, or discreet rural locations. There are no crowds, no announcements, and no waiting. The aircraft arrives when required, flies directly to its destination, and lands as close as regulations allow to the final point of interest.
For individuals accustomed to bespoke service in every other area of life, this level of autonomy feels less like luxury and more like necessity.
In an era of heightened visibility, privacy has become one of the most coveted luxuries of all. Helicopter chartering offers it by default.
Unlike fixed-wing aviation, helicopters can operate away from major hubs, dramatically reducing public exposure. High-profile clients, whether business leaders, public figures, or members of established families, can move discreetly, shielded from unwanted attention.
For many, this discretion extends beyond convenience. It is integral to personal security, reputation management, and peace of mind.
Today’s luxury helicopters rival premium automotive interiors in both design and comfort. Cabins are meticulously finished with hand-stitched leather seating, refined lighting, advanced sound insulation, and climate control systems that ensure a calm, controlled environment.
Panoramic windows provide uninterrupted views of the British countryside, coastlines, and cityscapes, turning each flight into an experience in its own right. For many clients, helicopter journeys become moments of quiet reflection rather than mere transit.
Service levels are equally refined. Charter operators provide concierge-style coordination, flexible scheduling, and pilots trained not only in advanced aviation but in client-facing professionalism. The experience is seamless, discreet, and entirely tailored.
One of the defining advantages of helicopter chartering is its ability to reach places other forms of transport cannot. Private estates, Highland lodges, remote shooting grounds, islands, racecourses, and yachts at anchor all become accessible with minimal disruption.
Helicopters are frequently used to connect London residences with country homes, transfer clients to and from private jets at regional airfields, arrive directly at major sporting and cultural events, provide yacht-to-shore transfers along the UK coastline and reach rural or offshore business interests.
For individuals with complex lifestyles spanning multiple locations, helicopters serve as the connective infrastructure of modern wealth.
While efficiency is the foundation of helicopter chartering, pleasure is its natural extension. Increasingly, helicopters are commissioned not only for transport but for experience-led journeys.
Aerial tours over the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, Snowdonia, or the Jurassic Coast reveal Britain from a perspective few ever see. Sunset flights over London’s skyline, private Champagne picnics reached by air, and bespoke sightseeing itineraries have become hallmarks of contemporary luxury travel.
Milestone birthdays, anniversaries, and proposals are now celebrated at altitude, where exclusivity is absolute and memories are truly singular.
Britain’s social calendar is rich with prestigious events, many of which are synonymous with helicopter arrivals. Royal Ascot, Cheltenham Festival, Silverstone, Goodwood, and major cultural gatherings all see helicopters ferrying guests directly to the heart of the occasion.
For attendees, this is not about spectacle. It is about avoiding congestion, maintaining privacy, and arriving composed rather than fatigued. The helicopter becomes an extension of the event itself, an elegant prelude rather than an ostentatious display.
The UK is widely regarded as having one of the most rigorous aviation regulatory frameworks in the world. Licensed helicopter charter operators operate under strict Civil Aviation Authority oversight, with uncompromising standards for pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and operational procedures.
For the luxury client, this regulatory discipline translates into confidence. Safety is embedded into the service, allowing clients to focus entirely on the experience rather than the logistics.
In a cultural climate where overt displays of wealth feel increasingly outdated, helicopter chartering reflects a quieter, more assured form of status. It is not about being seen but about moving through the world efficiently, privately, and on one’s own terms.
Helicopter chartering does not announce wealth. It assumes it for Britain’s most affluent individuals, this form of travel aligns perfectly with a broader shift in luxury values: toward discretion, craftsmanship, and intelligent design.
Ultimately, helicopter chartering is not simply about flying. It is about rethinking distance, redefining convenience, and reclaiming time.
As the boundaries between business, leisure, and personal life continue to blur, those who can move effortlessly between them gain a decisive advantage. Helicopter chartering offers that advantage, elevated, refined, and unmistakably modern.
In a nation defined by tradition, helicopter chartering represents progress: a way of living that rises above the ordinary, without ever needing to say so.
In a nation defined by tradition, helicopter chartering represents progress: a way of living that rises above the ordinary, without ever needing to say so.
At the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, internationally renowned artist Luke Jerram presents Tipping Point, an immersive outdoor installation running throughout the festival dates.
Using light, sound and personal testimony, the work evokes the intensity of a forest fire, offering a powerful reflection on climate change within the Gardens’ natural setting. A specially composed soundtrack deepens the sensory experience, while the accompanying Climate Café invites moments of pause and conversation. Unlike most festival installations, Tipping Point is free but ticketed, with limited availability each evening; advance booking via the Birmingham Light Festival website is recommended. The installation is presented with thanks to Middlemarch, whose support has made it possible to bring the work to the Gardens.
From 12th to 15th February, Birmingham Light Festival returns to illuminate the city’s winter nights and in Edgbaston Village, the experience is intimate, atmospheric and unmistakably stylish.
The festival also marks the launch of a new permanent artwork, Where the Trees Begin, by Birmingham-based mural artist Richard O’Gorman. Inspired by the ancient woodland that once shaped the city’s landscape, the illuminated piece introduces a quieter, more contemplative moment within the urban environment. Selected through an open call to local artists, the work will remain in place long after Birmingham Light Festival concludes on 15th February.
Beyond the artworks, Edgbaston’s programme brings together creativity, wellbeing and indulgence. On Friday 13th February, the Edgbaston Night Market, in association with Birmingham Artisan Markets, invites visitors to explore independent makers and designers along Greenfield Crescent, offering a relaxed way to move between installations.
Evenings from 12th to 15th February are defined by candlelight and considered hospitality. Loki Wine hosts intimate candlelit tastings throughout the festival, creating a warm, romantic counterpoint to the illuminated streets outside. Nearby, The High Field and Chapter add to the after-dark atmosphere with light-themed cocktails and festival exclusives, ideal for lingering between events.
Wellbeing and creativity also feature across the programme, with experiences ranging from Painting in the Dark and illuminated movement sessions to candlelit yoga and live performances, offering visitors a more reflective way to engage with the festival. For those seeking a more restorative moment, Glow and Flow at MK Reformed introduces illuminated reformer Pilates sessions, blending movement, light and calm into a uniquely immersive way to experience the festival.
Balancing striking artworks with moments of pause, indulgence and movement, Edgbaston presents a sophisticated way to experience Birmingham Light Festival from 12th to 15th February where candlelight, cocktails and culture meet after dark.
12-15 February '26
A new illuminated legacy artwork by Richard O’Gorman, launching during the festival
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A powerful, immersive installation by Luke Jerram
(12–15 February, free with booking)
Independent makers, creative energy and after-dark browsing (Friday 13th February)
Intimate evenings by candlelight throughout the festival weekend
Illuminated reformer Pilates for a restorative festival moment
From the quiet of the new mexico desert to the edge of space, a handful of travellers experience a journey that blends engineering, elegance, and a view of the earth few will ever see.
Instead of a countdown, there is a peaceful calm. A desert morning at Spaceport America in New Mexico, the air is still, the light sharp. On the tarmac sits a gleaming twin-fuselage aircraft, the VMS Eve, named after founder, Richard Branson’s mother.
Suspended beneath its central wing, the smaller white shape of VSS Unity waits for flight. It looks more like sculpture than a machine, its mirrored windows catching the sunlight, its smooth hull marked simply with the words Virgin Galactic. For a handful of travellers inside, they will leave Earth behind and see it from above the edge of space.
Richard Branson’s ambitions have always stretched beyond the ordinary. From music, train travel, airlines and ocean exploration, his ventures have pushed boundaries, but none are as audacious or as transformative as his foray into space tourism. With Virgin Galactic, he has sought to make space travel accessible, offering a journey that combines technical excellence, luxury service and an unparalleled perspective on our planet. Based at Spaceport America in New Mexico, the gateway to the edge of space, private travellers can board the sleek spacecraft VSS Unity and leave Earth in a way that few humans ever will.
Virgin Galactic has spent nearly two decades building towards this point. Founded by Branson in 2004, the company was borne out of a simple but ambitious goal: to open space to private citizens. After years of testing, setbacks and redesigns, commercial service began in 2023. Since then, a select group of paying passengers has joined company staff and researchers on flights that rise more than 80 kilometres above the Earth, crossing the United States’ definition of space and offering a few minutes of weightlessness before gliding back to land.
The journey is meticulously choreographed. Passengers arrive several days in advance for what Virgin calls its Astronaut Preparation Programme: an immersion that combines physical readiness, a technical briefing and a mental focus. They tour the spacecraft, practice moving in microgravity and learn how to steady themselves during phases of high gravity. They meet their pilots, often veterans of the test-flight programme, and rehearse communication protocols. Each traveller is fitted for a tailored Under Armour flight suit, designed to manage body temperature and enable freedom of movement in weightlessness. Evenings are spent with the small flight team in the spaceport’s lounge areas designed to echo the surrounding desert landscape. Meals are shared, questions answered and nerves eased.
“It’s a process that builds anticipation in a measured way,” explains Beth Moses, Virgin Galactic’s chief astronaut instructor and one of the first to experience the flight. “You get to know the crew, the systems, the procedures. By the time you walk out to the spacecraft, you’re ready both physically and emotionally.”
The VSS Unity itself is a hybrid of spacecraft and aircraft, capable of gliding to a runway landing yet to be built to endure the stresses of rocket flight. Each mission begins with Unity attached to Eve, which carries it to around 50,000 feet. The separation is smooth, almost unremarkable, until the rocket motor ignites. In a few seconds, the quiet is replaced by a rising thrust that pushes everyone firmly back into their seats. The ship climbs steeply, accelerating to three times the speed of sound. Through the windows the blue fades to indigo, then black.
Then, suddenly, silence again. The engine cuts off, the gravity forces vanish, and everything floats. Harnesses release and the cabin becomes a slow-motion zone. Passengers push gently from walls and seats, drifting in zero gravity, turning toward the windows to look down at home. From more than 80 kilometres up, the Earth curves visibly, a luminous arc edged by a thin blue line where atmosphere reduces to a fragile shimmer. “The moment you detach from the mothership and feel yourself in zero gravity, looking down at the planet, it’s unlike anything else in life,” says Moses. “You see how delicate everything is. You feel simultaneously small and connected.”
Branson himself, who flew aboard Unity’s first full-crew flight in 2021, described it as
“a moment to see the Earth as a whole, fragile and beautiful, and to feel our connection to it.”
He has often said that the true purpose of Virgin Galactic is not simply to offer a thrill but to change the way people think about the planet.
“Space offers clarity. It reminds you that Earth is our shared home, and that we are all connected.”
Inside the cabin, everything has been built to heighten that moment. Panoramic windows curve around both sides and the ceiling is designed to frame the view regardless of where a passenger floats. The structure, white, soft grey, polished metal portrays a calmness. The seats recline automatically as the ship re-enters the atmosphere, discreet lighting shifts to match each phase of flight. It feels less like a vehicle and more like a meditation chamber built for speed.
The descent, like the ascent, is choreographed with precision. As Unity re-enters the upper atmosphere, its wings pivot upwards into what engineers call “feather mode,” increasing drag and stability. The craft then transitions back into glider configuration for the final approach, touching down on the same runway it left. The entire journey, from take-off beneath the mothership to landing, lasts around ninety minutes. For passengers, though, it feels suspended outside of time.
The price of the Galactica experience is $600,000, or roughly £465,000. It includes the pre-flight training, accommodation, hospitality and post-flight debriefing, as well as membership in the company’s Future Astronaut community, an ongoing network of those who have flown (or are preparing to). Virgin Galactic frames this as the birth of a new kind of travel, a blending of engineering, exploration and emotion. “Flying to space is not just a thrill,” says Branson. “It’s about creating a moment that stays with you for the rest of your life.”
Those moments are already changing the people who experience them. Passengers consistently describe a shift in perspective: the so-called overview effect, first noted by astronauts decades ago, where viewing Earth from space provokes a deep sense of unity and responsibility. One recent traveller commented that it was the silence which struck her the most: “You expect fireworks and adrenaline. What you get is calm. You look down and it’s so peaceful, so complete. It’s impossible not to think differently about everything after that.”
Virgin Galactic’s next generation of spacecraft, the Delta Class, is already in development and expected to begin service in 2026. These vehicles will carry six passengers per flight and enable weekly sessions of missions, expanding access while preserving exclusivity. Built using lessons learned from Unity’s test programme, they are designed for rapid turnaround, capable of flying, landing and being prepared again within days. The company’s long-term plan includes additional spaceports, including potential sites outside the United States, as Branson describes “a global space line for Earth.”
For all the innovation, Virgin Galactic has always framed its work in emotional rather than purely technical terms. The tone at Spaceport America is closer to a private retreat than a launch complex. The architecture, all glass and desert hues, merges with the landscape. Visitors pass through galleries that trace the history of flight and exploration before entering the preparation areas. Every element from sound, lighting, to pacing, is designed to build a sense of ritual.
That focus on human experience differentiates Virgin Galactic from its competitors. Where other companies talk about payload capacity and orbital range, Virgin speaks of perspective and connection. The result is a form of travel that sits somewhere between science and art, reflective even. In an era where luxury often means isolation, this experience offers the opposite: a direct, visceral awareness of belonging to a larger whole.
When the flight ends, passengers gather once more with their crew for debriefing and celebration. The suits are removed, the adrenaline fades, but the sense of quiet wonder remains. Each traveller is presented with an album of photographs taken from inside and outside the cabin, though the most powerful image is the one that stays in their memory: that curve of Earth, luminous against darkness.
It is, in every sense, a milestone in modern travel. Virgin Galactic has taken the structure of luxury (comfort, service and exclusivity) and redirected it toward experience, curiosity and perspective. The company is, in effect, selling access to a view and the feeling that comes with it: a glimpse of the planet that redefines the idea of home.
The world looks different after you have seen it from space. That, perhaps, is the real value of the ticket. It is not about status but awareness; not an escape from Earth, but a new way of returning to it. As Branson once said, “Every flight is an invitation to see the world differently, to understand our place on this planet, and to carry that perspective forward.”
Branson’s dream was never just to send people upward, but to expand their view outward. As more travellers look beyond Earth’s horizon, they will bring that vision back with them, reshaping not only how we travel, but how we live in the world we call home.
Every flight is an invitation to see the world differently, to understand our place on this planet, and to carry that perspective forward.
A journey through the wonders of Sabah
WHERE RAINFOREST MEETS REEF, AND LUXURY MEETS ADVENTURE, SABAH, THE MALAYSIAN STATE ON THE NORTHERN TIP OF BORNEO, OFFERS TRAVELLERS A RARE BLEND OF WILD BEAUTY, RICH CULTURE, AND FIVE-STAR COMFORT.
Borneo, the third largest island in the world, defies expectation. Shared by Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, this is a land of deep green jungles, ancient rainforests, coral-fringed coastlines, and rare wildlife found nowhere else on the planet. Yet amidst this natural grandeur, Borneo also offers something unexpected: luxury. Think five-star rainforest lodges, overwater villas on turquoise seas, and private encounters with orangutans and pygmy elephants.
For the discerning traveller, Sabah, the Malaysian state on Borneo’s northern tip, is the ultimate base to experience this unique blend of wilderness and comfort. From its highland peaks to its pristine islands, Sabah is Borneo’s crown jewel, a magical region where adventure, conservation, and indulgence coexist beautifully.
Your journey begins in Kota Kinabalu (KK), Sabah’s vibrant coastal capital. This is a city where modern luxury meets island charm with its mix of bustling markets, seaside promenades, and world-class resorts. Stay at the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, where ocean-view suites and sunset bars redefine tropical elegance, or retreat to the Magellan Sutera Resort, part of the Sutera Harbour complex, with its marina, golf course, and infinity pools overlooking the South China Sea.
KK’s appeal lies in its effortless combination of city and sea. Just offshore lies the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a cluster of five idyllic islands only 15 minutes by boat. Each offers something different: the powdery beaches of Manukan, the vibrant reefs of Sapi, and the shaded forest trails of Gaya. For barefoot luxury, Gaya Island Resort delivers sustainability and serenity in equal measure: villas hidden among mangroves, sea-view infinity pools, and a marine ecology centre where guests can help replant coral.
Back on land, Sabah’s warmth extends beyond the weather. Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village, where the traditions of the Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Bajau and other ethnic groups are celebrated through bamboo cooking, tribal crafts, and rhythmic dances. Or wander through KK’s Sunday market at Gaya Street, where local artisans, coffee roasters, and food vendors showcase the island’s creative spirit.
In the evening, dine on fresh seafood: butter prawns, soft-shell crab, and steamed grouper, as the sun dips below the horizon in a blaze of gold. KK’s sunsets are famous, and they seem to linger longer here, as if reluctant to leave.
A two-hour drive inland brings you to Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak at 4,095 metres. The mountain’s jagged granite spires rise above the clouds, and are sacred to the local Dusun people who believe ancestral spirits dwell among its mists.
For the adventurous, climbing Mount Kinabalu is a bucket-list challenge, with a two-day trek through rainforest and alpine meadow rewarded by views over the whole of Borneo. Yet even those who prefer gentler pursuits will find beauty in the park’s trails, where orchids, pitcher plants, and butterflies thrive in cool mountain air.
Stay within the park at Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, where wooden chalets with log fires overlook forested valleys, or in nearby Kundasang, surrounded by flower farms and tea plantations. Don’t miss the Poring Hot Springs with its thermal pools and a rainforest canopy walkway high above the jungle floor.
Further afield, the Ranau and Tambunan valleys reveal another side of Sabah: rolling rice terraces, bamboo houses, and rural communities living in harmony with nature. It’s a reminder that in Sabah, life still moves to the rhythm of the land.
From mountain heights to coastal lowlands, the journey east to Sandakan reveals Sabah’s wild heart. Once a thriving colonial port, Sandakan is now a hub for wildlife conservation. Here, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre rescues and rehabilitates orphaned orangutans, offering visitors a chance to watch these remarkable creatures swing through the trees during feeding sessions.
Next door, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre protects the world’s smallest bears, while the Rainforest Discovery Centre introduces you to Sabah’s astonishing birdlife from its elevated canopy walkways: hornbills, broadbills, and the occasional giant red flying squirrel.
Stay at the Sepilok Nature Resort, where wooden chalets sit around a tranquil lake shaded by orchids and ferns. From Sandakan, venture deeper along the Kinabatangan River, one of the richest ecosystems in Southeast Asia. At the luxurious Sukau Rainforest Lodge, you can glide silently by electric boat through mangrove-fringed waterways, spotting proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and crocodiles basking on the riverbanks.
For true immersion in the rainforest, journey south into the Danum Valley Conservation Area, 130 million years old and largely untouched by modern civilisation. Here, at the award-winning Borneo Rainforest Lodge, luxury means connection with nature, silence, and the heartbeat of the jungle itself.
Spacious villas overlook the Danum River, outdoor bathtubs face ancient trees, and guided treks reveal a world of wonders: orangutans building nests, gibbons calling at dawn, and rare hornbills gliding between the canopy layers. Night safaris bring encounters with civets, flying squirrels, and luminous fungi glowing in the dark.
Nearby lies the Maliau Basin, often called Sabah’s Lost World, a vast crater-like wilderness of cloud forest and waterfalls that feels rather primeval. It’s harder to reach but infinitely rewarding, offering expedition-style eco-lodges and guided treks for those seeking the ultimate off-grid adventure.
If the jungles of Borneo are its lungs, then Sabah’s islands are its heartbeats, each one pulsing with coral life. To the northeast lies Lankayan Island, a small coral atoll within the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area. Its crystal-clear waters attract whale sharks, sea turtles, and reef fish in dazzling abundance. Guests at Lankayan Island Dive Resort can watch turtles nesting under the stars and release hatchlings back into the sea.
South of KK, Gayana Marine Resort and Bunga Raya Island Resort on Gaya Island offer five-star indulgence just minutes from the city with overwater villas, private beaches, and world-class dining framed by the sound of waves and cicadas.
Further south still, near Semporna, the islands of Pom Pom, Mataking, and Mabul promise secluded stays and effortless access to Sipadan, one of the world’s greatest dive sites. Descend into a world of colour: barracuda tornadoes, turtles gliding through crystal blue seas and coral walls alive with motion. For non-divers, these islands offer equally idyllic pleasures with their spa pavilions over the sea, hammocks between palms, and picnics on deserted sandbanks.
Beyond Sabah’s wildlife and beaches lies a cultural richness often overlooked. Inland towns such as Tenom are known for their coffee plantations, where visitors can tour family-run roasteries and sample the island’s rich arabica and liberica blends. In Kudat, at Borneo’s northernmost tip, the Tip of Borneo viewpoint offers spectacular coastal panoramas, while nearby Rungus villages showcase traditional longhouses and intricate beadwork.
Sabah’s people, a mosaic of more than 30 ethnic groups, are as warm as the climate. Markets burst with colour, from jungle fruits and handwoven baskets to pearls harvested from the sea. Wherever you travel, a smile and a simple “kopivosian” (hello) will open hearts and doors.
Sabah’s true luxury lies not just in its beauty, but in how it’s protected. Many of the state’s top resorts and lodges are pioneers of eco-tourism. Sukau Rainforest Lodge and Borneo Rainforest Lodge both employ and train locals, fund conservation projects, and offset their carbon footprints. Gaya Island Resort rehabilitates injured turtles through its Marine Ecology Research Centre, while park entrance fees and eco-permits directly support preservation efforts. This commitment means that travellers can enjoy the best of Borneo while contributing to its future.
Sabah enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with warm days and occasional rain. The dry season (February to August) is perfect for climbing Mount Kinabalu and island-hopping, while the wetter months (October to January) bring lush greenery and quieter trails.
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is well-connected, with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Hong Kong. From there, short domestic flights and scenic drives open up the rest of Sabah, from Sandakan’s coastal jungles to the dive islands of Semporna.
In Sabah, adventure and elegance partner to create a journey that will linger in your memory long after you’ve left. Every trail, river, and canopy holds a story, inviting travellers to witness nature’s wonders whilst enjoying the warmth of local hospitality. Borneo is more than a destination, it’s a place where the spirit of the island seeps into your soul, leaving you with a sense of awe, connection, and an irresistible urge to return.
Want to find out more about Sabah? Head to:
As winter sets in and the nights draw close, the UK bursts into colour and sparkle with festive markets that light up towns and cities across the country.
The scent of roasted chestnuts, the sounds of carol singers and the sight of twinkling lights transform familiar streets into scenes of Christmas magic.
Whether you’re seeking handmade gifts, indulgent festive food, or simply the warm glow of seasonal cheer, the UK’s Christmas markets offer a rich mix of tradition, creativity and community spirit. Here are ten of the very best to explore this festive season.
From Bath’s Georgian charm to Glasgow’s high-energy celebration, the UK’s Christmas markets each capture the spirit of the season in their own unique way. Some dazzle with grand scale and spectacle; others charm with intimacy and tradition. But all share one common magic - that unmistakable feeling of warmth, light and joy that makes Christmas truly special.
So, wrap up warm, grab a cup of mulled wine, and let the glow of fairy lights guide you through the country’s most enchanting festive destinations this Christmas.
Few places capture the festive spirit quite like Bath and that's why it makes our number one spot! Surrounded by the city’s elegant Georgian architecture and overlooked by Bath Abbey, the market’s wooden chalets create a charming, old-world atmosphere. Local artisans fill the streets with handmade crafts, decorations and seasonal food, making it one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in the country.
To enjoy a festive setting steeped in history and craftsmanship
Late November to mid-December
Visit midweek or early in the morning to enjoy the stalls before they get busy
Birmingham’s festive market is one of the largest in Britain and brings an unmistakable German influence to the heart of the city. From bratwurst and pretzels to steaming mugs of glühwein, the air is filled with irresistible aromas and lively chatter. The atmosphere is fun and friendly, making it perfect for both families and groups of friends.
For a truly European-style market experience full of food and music.
Early November to Christmas Eve.
Go hungry - the food and drink are the highlights.
Manchester takes festive celebrations seriously, with markets spreading across multiple squares and streets in the city centre. Each area has its own theme, from international food stalls to traditional crafts and decorations. The huge illuminated Santa watching over St Peter’s Square has become a local Christmas icon.
For the sheer size, variety and festive buzz.
Early November to just before Christmas.
Plan ahead - there’s so much to see that it’s worth mapping your route.
Set beneath the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the city’s Christmas markets offer an unforgettable blend of atmosphere, entertainment and scenery. The main market in Princes Street Gardens features traditional stalls, rides, an ice rink and Scottish street food. As night falls, the lights and skyline create one of the most magical sights in the country.
For its unbeatable views and vibrant Scottish character.
Mid-November to early January.
Stay until dark to experience the city illuminated in festive colour.
York’s St Nicholas Fair brings festive tradition to one of England’s most historic cities. Wooden chalets line the medieval streets, offering handmade gifts, local produce and delicious sweet treats. The market’s smaller size makes it relaxed and atmospheric, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing and soaking up the Christmas spirit.
For a cosy, traditional feel in a beautiful historic setting.
Late November to just before Christmas.
Wonder the Shambles after sunset for a storybook winter scene.
Cardiff’s Christmas market reflects the city’s creative spirit, showcasing Welsh crafts, art and food. Stalls selling glassware, ceramics, textiles and traditional treats like Welsh cakes and bara brith fill the city centre. Its compact layout and proximity to Cardiff Castle make it easy to enjoy alongside the capital’s other attractions.
For a distinctly Welsh celebration of creativity and community.
Late November to just before Christmas.
Don't miss the chance to sample homemade Welsh cakes straight off the griddle.
Set in the shadow of one of England’s most famous cathedrals, Winchester’s Christmas market is as atmospheric as they come. Wooden chalets surround the historic cathedral, while carol singers and festive lights add to the magic. The market has earned a reputation for its high-quality gifts and local produce, making it a favourite among those seeking something special.
For a traditional English Christmas experience in a stunning setting.
Late November to just before Christmas.
Visit at sunset to see the cathedral beautifully lit against the winter sky.
Glasgow brings a big-hearted energy to its Christmas celebrations. Split between George Square and St Enoch Square, the markets are full of international street food, crafts and festive entertainment. Expect live music, laughter and a lively atmosphere that perfectly reflects the city’s warm, friendly spirit.
For a vibrant, feel-good market full of character.
Late November to early January.
Warm up with a traditional Scottish hot toddy or a whisky-infused cocoa.
In Nottingham’s Old Market Square, the Winter Wonderland transforms the city centre into a festive playground. Alongside the gift stalls and food stands, there’s an ice rink, a Ferris wheel and alpine-style bars serving mulled wine. It’s a great destination for both families and groups looking for a complete festive day out.
For a fun mix of skating, shopping and festive entertainment.
Mid-November to early January.
Book skating sessions early - they sell out fast.
The Southbank in London transforms each year into a riverside winter wonderland, with wooden huts offering artisan goods, gourmet street food and seasonal drinks. With the Thames, the London Eye and Big Ben as your backdrop, it’s a festive experience like no other - urban, lively and full of atmosphere.
For the iconic setting and diverse mix of food and gifts.
Mid-November to early January.
Visit during the day for relaxed browsing, or after dark when the lights reflect beautifully on the river.
While visual appeal is undeniably important, successful staging goes far beyond surface beauty.
SWEALTHY STAGE PROPERTIES TO SELL FASTER + FOR MORE.
If you’re ready to stage smarter, Swealthy Staging can help. Visit swealthystaging.com to see how purposeful staging can transform your property and attract the right buyers.
When it comes to preparing a property for sale, it’s easy to focus primarily on aesthetics, a fresh coat of paint, stylish décor, and perfectly plumped cushions. While visual appeal is undeniably important, successful staging goes far beyond surface beauty. The most compelling homes are those which not only look good but also feel right to prospective buyers. This sense of rightness often stems from one critical factor: function. Thinking through how a person will physically use and move through each space transforms a staged home from merely attractive to truly desirable.
Buying a home is as much emotional as financial. When viewers walk through a property, they imagine themselves living there: making coffee, getting ready, relaxing. If the layout or features make these tasks awkward, it disrupts that connection, but when everything works effortlessly, the buyer starts to see the space as a home rather than a house.
Staging should show how a room works, not only how it looks. This means allowing enough space to open drawers and doors, placing lighting where it’s needed, and positioning utilities, plug sockets, towel rails, shelving, in practical locations. These details may seem minor, but they strongly influence buyer perception.
A well-staged room has a natural flow that fits real life. When planning a layout, it helps to think like a visitor: Where will they enter? What will they see first? Can they move without obstruction?
In living rooms, furniture should encourage conversation and comfort. A sofa that blocks a path or a coffee table that’s hard to walk around signals poor usability. Dining areas should have space to enable chairs to pull out easily. The aim is to achieve a sense of proportion and flow that helps buyers picture their daily routines.
Small practical touches signal thoughtful design. A plug socket beside a mirror, a light switch where you would instinctively reach for it, or a towel rail within arm’s reach of the shower all suggest the home was planned for living. These conveniences communicate quality and care; they make a property feel move-in ready.
In contrast, if a viewer has to imagine running an extension cord across the floor to dry their hair, or stepping dripping wet across the bathroom to reach a towel, they may start to mentally add up the potential renovation costs.
Each room in a home has its own set of functional priorities. When staging, these should guide the decisions you make.
Kitchens: Functionality here is paramount. Ensure there’s clear workspace between appliances, easy access to cupboards, and logical positioning of the sink, cooker, and fridge (the classic “kitchen triangle”). Keep worktops clutter-free, but include subtle hints of real life, a chopping board, a coffee machine near a plug socket, to reinforce usability.
Bathrooms: Think about comfort and reach. Towels should be within arm’s length of the shower or bath, and toiletries should have a designated place. A mirror placed opposite good lighting, ideally near a socket for grooming appliances, conveys both practicality and good design.
Bedrooms: These spaces should feel restful and functional. Consider where bedside lamps will plug in, where someone might place their phone or book, and how much space is available for wardrobes or drawers. The aim is to show that the room comfortably accommodates daily routines.
Living Areas: Here, flow and comfort take centre stage. Arrange furniture so conversation feels natural, and ensure lighting supports different moods: bright for reading, soft for relaxing. Avoid overcrowding, but don’t make the space feel sterile; a side table beside an armchair shows thoughtfulness.
It’s tempting to stage purely for photography, creating a visually stunning composition that will capture attention online. But a home that photographs beautifully can sometimes disappoint in person if its functionality has been neglected. A well-staged home must be attractive in pictures and convincing to live in. Consider how people walk, reach, sit and store items within the space.
Ultimately, the best staging is invisible. Buyers shouldn’t notice the details because they’re so naturally integrated; they should simply feel that the home “works.” Every decision, from where a lamp is plugged in to how a towel hangs, contributes to that feeling.
Staging a home for sale is both an art and a science. While style and presentation create the first impression, function and practicality sustain it. When a potential buyer senses that a home has been designed with their comfort in mind, they’re far more likely to fall in love with it, and make it their own.
What an exceptional experience we had at The Cross in Kenilworth.
What an exceptional experience we had at The Cross in Kenilworth. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the Restaurant Manager, Pietro, and invited to begin our evening with pre-dinner drinks accompanied by a selection of chef’s snacks: Cheddar & Old Winchester Croquettes with Bramley Apple & Smoked Mayonnaise, delicate Beetroot Tartlets and succulent prawns in tempura batter. These first bites were a sign of the magic to come, perfectly balanced, imaginative, and utterly delicious.
We were shown to our table in the restaurant’s beautifully understated dining room, where the sense of anticipation only grew. We had both chosen the six-course tasting menu, and from the very first dish, it was clear we were in for something special.
To start, we were served warm house sourdough - simple, but superb, while we waited excitedly for our opening courses: a ham broth with white beans and parsley, followed by a beetroot salad with Windrush Valley goat’s cheese, raspberry vinaigrette, and puffed quinoa. Both dishes were crafted with remarkable finesse, each flavour bright, balanced, and beautifully presented.
We had opted to substitute the tartar of dry Aged Angus Beef with two alternatives: Cornish Hake with Squid, Chervil Root purée, coastal herbs & vegetables, seaweed butter and the fillet & cheek of wiltshire pork with baked potato mash, hispi cabbage, gooseberry purée, pork jus, smoked sausage, pickled leek buds & sage. These dishes were outstanding, the freshness of the ingredients, the depth of flavour, the precision in presentation, every detail was executed flawlessly. We were genuinely blown away.
Next came a perfectly cooked fillet of plaice with cauliflower, capers & lemon, parsley new potatoes, and brown butter sauce, followed by what was perhaps the highlight of the evening: the roast loin of Venison with a tartlet of braised haunch and haggis, braised pearl barley, crushed roots, black fig and a Venison jus infused with green peppercorn. This dish was a masterpiece, rich, elegant, and unforgettable.
For desert; the spiced rice pudding soufflé with stem ginger ice cream and rhubarb coulis was, without exaggeration, one of the best soufflés I have ever experienced.
We enjoyed our meal with a glass of Merlot and a Blush, both of which complemented the dishes beautifully. As we left, we found ourselves repeating the same word over and over: WOW!
We truly had the most wonderful evening. Our sincere thanks to The Cross and their exceptional team for a culinary experience we felt privileged to enjoy. It is no surprise that The Cross in Kenilworth has retained its Michelin star for the 11th consecutive year.
Thank you to everyone who looked after us so impeccably.
And how a financial plan can turn uncertainty into opportunity
Why it's best not to panic around the UK Autumn budget statement
And how a financial plan can turn uncertainty into opportunity
We’ve been delighted by the tremendous response to our recent article. With its timely insight and continued relevance, we’ve chosen to bring the feature back for those who may have missed it and to keep it top of mind for readers returning for a second look.
Every year, the UK’s Autumn Budget Statement is a hotly anticipated event. For some, it brings the hope of tax cuts or increased public spending. For others, it raises anxiety about what changes may be coming - from income tax and national insurance contributions to pensions, business rates, and benefits. But one thing is certain: the media frenzy around the Budget often stokes fear more than it provides clarity.
In uncertain times, it’s easy to let headlines drive your decisions. But reacting emotionally to budget announcements can lead to costly mistakes. Instead, by keeping calm and focusing on a sound financial plan, you can not only weather economic shifts but potentially turn them into opportunities.
Understanding the Autumn Budget Statement
The Autumn Statement is a key fiscal event where the Chancellor of the Exchequer outlines the government's plans for taxation and spending. It's used to update the country on the health of the economy and to make adjustments based on current financial realities.
Because it directly affects personal finances, business operations, and investment climates, many people react strongly - especially if it introduces changes to taxes, benefits, or pension rules. But overreacting or making hasty decisions in response to these announcements is rarely helpful.
It’s important to remember that the Autumn Statement is fundamentally a political tool. Decisions are made in the context of national economic priorities and political strategy - not with individual financial plans in mind.
While changes may have a knock-on effect, such as adjustments to income tax thresholds or capital gains tax, the impact on your long-term financial position is often much less dramatic than it first appears. Jumping to conclusions based on a single budget announcement can lead to rash decisions, such as pulling investments, changing pension contributions, or even selling property - all without proper analysis.
When budget changes are announced, markets may respond quickly, sometimes with volatility. But this initial reaction is rarely sustained. Investors who panic and make knee-jerk decisions often lock in losses that could have been avoided by staying the course.
For example, an increase in corporation tax might cause a temporary dip in business sentiment or share prices, but over time, companies adapt, and markets rebalance. Those with long-term investment strategies typically outperform those who try to time the market.
While the Budget sets the national financial landscape, your personal financial success is more often determined by your planning and behaviour. Having a clear, flexible financial strategy allows you to absorb changes and make adjustments without panic.
A good financial plan acts like a compass. It helps you see the bigger picture and stay on course, even when the economic environment is shifting. Instead of worrying about every policy change, your plan is built around your personal goals - whether that’s saving for retirement, buying a home, or funding your children’s education.
With a solid plan in place, you can assess how changes affect your strategy in a structured way. This clarity helps you act with intention rather than emotion.
Budget changes often present new financial planning opportunities but only if you’re prepared to spot them. For example:
Tax-efficient investing: A rise in income tax could make ISAs or pension contributions more attractive, especially for higher earners.
Business adjustments: Entrepreneurs may find new incentives, grants, or allowances that support growth or innovation.
Capital gains planning: Adjustments to CGT may create windows of opportunity to sell or restructure assets strategically.
By working with a financial planner or adviser, you can review these opportunities in the context of your overall goals and take action where it makes sense.
The most valuable aspect of financial planning is resilience. When you know your income, savings, investments, and insurance are working together in harmony, you’re less likely to panic when external events happen. Your plan can include:
Emergency funds to cover short-term instability
Diversified investments to reduce risk exposure
Debt management strategies to keep liabilities under control
Regular reviews to adapt to new legislation or economic conditions
This proactive approach helps turn challenging times into manageable ones and sometimes even into times of growth.
It’s one thing to read about planning, it’s another to do it. If you’re unsure where to start, or how changes in the Autumn Budget might affect you, consider working with a qualified financial adviser or planner. They can help you:
Understand exactly what budget changes mean for you
Create a bespoke plan tailored to your circumstances
Stay focused on your long-term goals, regardless of political noise
Find efficiencies and opportunities you might have missed on your own
Panic is a poor financial strategy. The Autumn Budget may bring news - good or bad - but it doesn’t have to derail your financial future. By approaching it with a calm, considered mindset and a well-structured plan, you can rise above the noise and make decisions that genuinely serve your goals.
The truth is, financial success is rarely about reacting to government announcements. It's about preparation, discipline, and adaptability. With a financial plan in place, you can look beyond the headlines and see the opportunities that others miss, even in the toughest of times.
For a no-pressure introductory conversation about protecting your estate and legacy, visit southcotefinancial.co.uk or call 0121 661 7014.
Business Property Relief Schemes (BR) invest in assets that are high risk and can be difficult to sell such as shares in unlisted companies. The value of the investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back what they originally invested, even taking into account the tax benefits. Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.
This article is for financial education, not financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, we recommend you seek professional financial advice.
The former Grade II 19th-century inn, now a celebrated gastropub overseen by Executive Chef Adam Bennett boasts a Michelin star, three AA rosettes and a Good Food Award Gold Seal.
It’s little surprise that this cosy Kenilworth haven, refurbished and relaunched in 2013, offers one of the region’s finest gourmet dining experiences.
Former Dorchester chef Adam and his team delight diners by working their magic in the pub’s open kitchen. The space once served as a schoolroom, while a butcher’s shop stood in the smaller adjoining bar area. Regulars at this beautifully presented gastropub ensure that favourites such as Cornish crab soup, dry-aged beef with pickled walnut, glacé carrots and Bordelaise sauce remain fixtures on the menu, while the hazelnut soufflé is practically immovable.
Adam explains: “Our most requested dish, by far, is the Crispy Duck Egg in its various seasonal variations. This is served with Wye Valley asparagus in the spring, white beans, peppers and chorizo in the summer, celeriac, mushrooms and truffle in the autumn and smoked haddock, leeks and potatoes in the winter.”
The Cross relies on the team at local Mill Piece Gardens for exceptional vegetables, salads and fruits - all grown using the ‘no-dig’ organic method. Just a 10-minute drive away, produce ordered at 11pm can be picked and delivered by 10am the next morning, and on the plate from midday.
Despite its Michelin distinction, Adam insists that The Cross remains a relaxed dining experience, albeit one defined by first-class attention to detail in both service and food.
One of Adam’s favourite dishes is guinea fowl. “This is in respect of our collaboration with Laurent Perrier and their Grand Siècle 26. We cook the guinea fowl on the bone gently, then grill to crisp the skin, or serve it with a croquette of the leg, crispy potato terrine, butternut squash and a sauce with white pepper, winter truffle and redcurrants,” he says.
The Cross may be renowned and in high demand, but it is not immune to economic pressures. Adam explains: “The current economic climate has become very difficult for hospitality in general, but small, independent restaurants have found it particularly challenging. Our aim has been to make savings through improved organisation and staff reduction; it’s helped ensure any belt-tightening goes unnoticed by our guests.”
Adam believes government support could play a role in helping restaurants navigate today’s economic headwinds, particularly through reducing VAT for the hospitality industry and easing the process of employing staff from the EU.
With unwavering dedication to quality ingredients, thoughtful cooking and warm hospitality, Adam Bennett continues to guide The Cross with confidence and creativity. Even in challenging times, his commitment to consistency and excellence ensures the restaurant remains a cherished destination for diners from across the Midlands and beyond.
A 350g piece of skinless, boneless sea trout (or salmon as a substitute)
100g coarse sea salt
100g granulated sugar
10g juniper berries - chopped
6g white peppercorns - crushed
½ bunch dill coarsely chopped
1 tsp each finely grated zest of lemon and bergamot (or lime as a substitute)
100ml approximately of aromatic gin
Combine the salt, sugar, dill and spices in a bowl. Add the gin little by little to give a texture a bit like wet sand.
Lay half the mixture on a stainless steel or glass tray, place the sea trout on top and cover with the rest of the mixture. Cover with cling film and leave in the fridge to cure for around 12 to 16 hours or until firm to the touch. Turn the fish over after 6 hours.
Remove from the salt mixture & rinse briefly under cold water. Dry well and reserve in the fridge, covered.
2 bunches of mixed colour baby beets
Salt and pepper
100ml virgin rapeseed oil
A sprig of thyme
1 clove garlic – peeled and cut into 3
2 tbsp wood chippings – beech for preference
Trim the leaves from the beets, wash thoroughly and package them in foil with salt, pepper, a piece of garlic, sprig of thyme and a little rapeseed oil. Bake in a preheated 170c oven until the beets are tender when tested with the point of a knife.
Remove from the oven, when cool enough to handle rub the skins off with your fingertips.
Then rinse beets briefly under cold water, arrange them on a wire rack to fit over a deep roasting tray. Place the chippings in the tray and heat on the hob until smoke rises. Place the rack of beets over the smoking tray and cover with foil.
Allow to smoke for a few minutes depending on the smoke density. When you are happy with the level of smoke remove and chill the beets. Turn off the heat source under the tray and carefully pour in some cold water, leave to cool down.
150g water
50g sugar
100g liquid glucose
100g Colman’s horseradish sauce
6g sorbet stabiliser (optional)
250g yoghurt
250g soured cream
Pinch of salt
20g lemon juice
Mix the sugar with the sorbet stabiliser (if using).
Place the water, sugar mixture and glucose in a pan & bring to the boil. Remove from the heat and cool.
Add the rest of the ingredients to the cold syrup, leave to stand for 20 minutes then pass through a fine sieve.
Churn in an ice cream machine and reserve in the freezer.
1 small shallot – finely diced, rinsed in cold water and squeezed dry
A handful of washed watercress sprigs
Some shredded raw candy stripe beetroot
Extra virgin rapeseed oil
Calamansi vinegar (or cider vinegar as an alternative)
A sprinkle of sourdough crumbs toasted with rapeseed oil
Cut the sea trout into a 3mm dice then mix with a little diced shallot and rapeseed oil. Cut the baby beets into quarters, season and dress with calamansi vinegar and rapeseed oil.
Arrange the diced sea trout on each plate, add the beets then a scoop of sorbet. Finish with the shredded beetroot, sourdough crumbs and the watercress
The Rising Popularity of Private Jet Charters in the UK
Private jet travel, once the exclusive domain of monarchs, magnates and movie stars, is no longer a distant aspiration; it has quietly, but markedly, become woven into the lifestyle of the UK’s elite and well-heeled business class. What was once a luxury seen as extravagant is increasingly treated as intelligent, time efficient, and status defining. From the post-Covid rebound to innovations in service and sustainability, there are multiple factors propelling the UK private jet charter market to new altitudes.
The global disruption caused by the COVID 19 pandemic left many travellers disillusioned with commercial flying: unpredictable schedules, crowded terminals, health risks and disruptions. Private jet charters offered an escape. According to British GQ, business jet flight hours in 2021 were almost 50% higher than in 2020, and even surpassed pre-pandemic levels.
In fact, UK based firms arranging rentals saw strong demand from first time users and returning clients alike. One leading global broker, Air Charter Service, reported a 35% increase in private jet revenues in 2022, together with tens of thousands of charter flights arranged and more than 2,000 new customers (aircharterservice.com).
Time is the new currency. For many executive travellers, entrepreneurs and those with multiple engagements in different cities, private charters reduce friction: fewer airport hassles, minimal queues, flexible scheduling, access to smaller and more convenient airports. Business meetings, urgent trips, or itineraries that demand agility are increasingly facilitated by private aviation. A report from CBI Economics found that the private business aviation sector adds nearly £4.9 billion in gross value to the UK economy each year, with hundreds of thousands of flights tied to revenue generating travel
Also, private jets are no longer the preserve of single travellers: there is a growing trend toward group charters i.e. family, friends, or corporate groups seeking an exclusive, comfortable journey together. Larger cabin jets are also experiencing increasing demand.
One notable shift is the emergence of new categories of users, not just ultra high net worth individuals (UHNWIs) for whom private jets are longstanding symbols of prestige but also business travellers, entrepreneurs, tech founders, and even affluent leisure travellers who view private travel as part of a broader lifestyle portfolio. According to the 2025 Jet Card Report (via Private Jet Card Comparisons), subscribers are increasing their flight hours; demand for mid size and large cabin jets is growing.
privatejetcardcomparisons.com
Executives and seasoned travellers also increasingly expect superior in flight technology, privacy, bespoke cabin amenities, gourmet menus, and even pet friendly arrangements. The modern private flight is not simply about speed, but also about an elevated experience.
Of course, the popularity of private jets has raised its share of environmental scrutiny. The UK and Europe more broadly face pressures to reduce aviation emissions, implement carbon offset schemes, and adopt cleaner fuels or more efficient aircraft. Government policy is responding: in the UK, recent changes to Air Passenger Duty notably increased taxes for larger private jets, though industry leaders assert that for many clients the incremental cost is a small fraction of total benefit.
Operators are also investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), lighter aircraft materials, and improved efficiency. The luxury market is duplicating trends seen elsewhere: clients desire not only opulence, but also responsibility. As rising emissions from private aviation attract media and regulatory attention, charter companies are slowly integrating sustainability into their value proposition.
Data shows that the UK is among the busiest European markets for private jet departures. In 2022 alone, over 90,000 private flights departed the UK, more than from any other European country. Sky News One private jet is said to take off every six minutes in the UK.
Charter companies are responding by offering more flexible membership or jet card programmes, and services are being digitised: faster booking, dynamic pricing, empty leg deals (where private aircraft fly empty on return legs), all of which make flying private less opaque and more accessible than in years past.
Beyond practical advantages, private jet travel has become a marker of identity. To fly privately now signals not just wealth, but taste, freedom and exclusivity. In a world saturated with luxury goods, experiences matter: from chic cabin design to personal service, in flight dining curated by renowned chefs, to partnerships with fashion, décor and lifestyle brands, it is part of how the elite curate their image, and how brands align themselves.
Still, the path forward is not without turbulence. Regulatory pressures over carbon emissions, rising taxes, protests and public scrutiny remain. Some clients may balk at environmental reputational risk. Also, economic instability could curb frivolous luxuries. But the industry appears resilient: for many clients, the price of convenience and exclusivity remains a price worth paying.
Private jet chartering in the UK is no longer simply an indulgence, it is increasingly understood as a strategic asset: saving time, enabling privacy, enhancing prestige and, even amid climate concerns, attempting to evolve. For luxury travellers, business elites, and a growing cadre of newcomers, the skies are no longer the limit - they are the stage.
A designer’s guide to beginning your interior journey
By Michael Novak-Young
So you’ve finally decided it’s time to tackle your home’s interiors. Maybe it’s the tired kitchen tiles that are bothering you, or the living room that never quite feels right. You open Pinterest, fall into a rabbit hole of beautiful spaces, and then close your laptop feeling more overwhelmed than inspired. Sound familiar?
As an interior designer, one of the most common things I hear is: “I don’t even know where to start.” And it’s a completely valid point. Whether you’re redesigning a single room or planning a full home refresh, the beginning can feel like standing at the foot of a mountain with no clear path to the top.
But here’s the good news. You don’t need to have it all figured out before you begin. In fact, the best designs often come from asking the right questions at the start, not from having all the answers. So, here’s a designer’s guide to taking those first few confident steps.
Before you start choosing paint colours or sofas, pause and consider how you want to feel in the space. Calm? Energised? Social? Private? Design isn’t just about how things look. It’s about how your space supports your everyday life.
Ask yourself: What’s working, and what’s not? These answers become your brief.
Visual references are powerful tools. Gather images of spaces you love. Don’t limit yourself to interiors alone, include materials, places, fashion, or artwork that genuinely moves you.
Now look for patterns. Are you drawn to a minimalist white kitchen because it suits your lifestyle, or just because it's trending? The aim is to uncover what consistently resonates with you.
Trying to do everything at once leads to decision fatigue and overspend.
Choose your priorities. Are you updating a specific room? Making your home more family-friendly? Creating a quiet retreat? Define what matters most and set a realistic budget. From there, you can decide whether to take things step by step or complete the work in one go.
One common misstep is rushing into big purchases like sofas or dining tables without considering the bigger picture.
Instead, approach your space in layers:
Foundation: flooring, wall finishes, and lighting
Function: layout, storage, and how the room is used
Feeling: textures, colours, mood, and personal touches
This layered approach helps create a more thoughtful and cohesive design.
Interior design doesn't have to feel overwhelming, and you don’t need a huge budget to bring in a professional. Many designers offer consultations, room-by-room plans, or even virtual services.
A good designer won’t impose a signature style. They’ll help you uncover yours and give you the tools to bring it to life.
The perfect place to start is rarely the perfect-looking place. It’s simply the moment you decide to begin. Be curious, stay open, and give yourself the freedom to evolve your ideas as you go. Great design doesn’t start with a shopping list. It starts with you.
START YOUR DESIGN JOURNEY WITH NOVAK & PARKES: info@novakparkes.com • 01902 271 563
Redefining estate agency for the modern Midlands
At Grove Properties Group, we understand that a property is more than bricks and mortar, it’s a foundation for memories, growth, and opportunity. Whether you’re taking your first step onto the property ladder, searching for your next investment, or preparing to sell a home filled with history, we’re here to ensure your journey is handled with care, clarity and confidence.
98.7%
of asking price achieved, compared to industry average of 96%
4.7*
Google review rating from delighted clients
5,630
registered buyers currently trying to 'find their home'
84
days average to exchange compared to industry average of 120 days
For many years, we’ve worked alongside clients across South-West Birmingham, North Worcestershire, and the surrounding communities, guiding them through the intricacies of buying, selling, renting and letting. Our reputation has been built on trust, local expertise, and a genuine commitment to delivering a service that feels personal, reliable, and refreshingly straightforward.
We recognise that the property market can often feel daunting. That’s why we’ve shaped our approach around simplicity and support. From the moment you reach out to us, our goal is to remove the stress and uncertainty, replacing it with a seamless, well-informed experience. Our clients frequently express how reassuring it is to work with a team that not only understands the market but understands them, their priorities, timelines and aspirations.
Our longstanding success is a reflection of the people we serve. We are proud to have helped so many individuals and families find their ideal homes, and equally proud of the relationships we continue to build along the way. Every testimonial, every referral and every returning client reinforces our belief in doing things the right way: with integrity, insight and a personal touch.
Our team is made up of friendly, knowledgeable professionals who bring extensive experience across all aspects of residential property. From valuations and viewings to negotiations and management, we work collaboratively to ensure every client receives the highest level of service.
We combine local understanding with market expertise, enabling us to offer advice that is both practical and insightful. No matter where you are in your property journey, our specialists are here to support you every step of the way. Say hello, we’re always happy to help.
Dean co-founded Lex Allan Grove in 2006 and has been a driving force behind the company’s evolution into what is now Grove Properties Group. Under his leadership, the business has grown from a respected local agency into a recognised name for residential sales, lettings and new property development across the region. In January 2025, his vision and strategic growth initiatives helped transition the brand into its next chapter as Grove Properties Group.
With deep roots in Halesowen and a career grounded in property insight and exceptional customer service, Dean has dedicated himself to building a company that reflects his core values: professionalism, personalised service and continuous innovation. His ability to adapt to the ever-changing market has ensured that the business not only stays relevant but remains ahead of the curve.
“Our mission has always been to provide a personal, high-quality service while continuously adapting to the changing needs of the property market.”
Get in Touch
ë Halesowen & Hagley
0121 550 5400 | 01562 270270
hagley@grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
halesowen@grovepropertiesgroup.co.uk
From home-grown design to global icons, discover gifts that feel as good to give as they do to receive, at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.
CHESTNUT & CASHMERE DIFFUSER
£60
Infused with notes of spiced chestnut and soft woods, this luxurious diffuser from BAMFORD promises to embrace the home with quiet warmth and understated luxury.
MARVELOUS GARDEN FLORAL-PRINT VELVET JACKET
£390
Velvet blooms and painterly colour, this eye-catching jacket from FARM RIO is wearable art that is bound to capture the spirit of joy and individuality and gaze of others.
AMBIENT LIGHTING EDIT UNLOCKED FOX
£92
Achieve the signature HOURGLASS glow with the limited-edition Ambient Lighting Edit in Fox – a luminous palette that features five new Ambient Lighting shades to create the perfect flush and lit-from-within glow.
Florian Extrait de Parfum (100ml)
£290
Exclusively at Harvey Nichols, this Venetian masterpiece by the Italian fragrance house, blends saffron, iris and leather in a scent that’s both refined and rare. Wear an expression of pure olfactory artistry this festive season.
Nina 14kt Gold Vermeil Hoop Earrings
£210
Designed by Midlands-based jeweller Laura Vann, these heirloom-inspired hoops effortlessly blends modern minimalism with timeless craftsmanship, a shining tribute to the city’s heritage of fine jewellery.
Pillow Quilted Leather Wallet
£95
Supple leather, soft quilting, effortless elegance - this timeless piece proves that everyday essentials can still feel indulgent. Available in burgundy and brown.
Dior Addict Lip Glow Butter
£33
A nourishing veil of colour that strikes the perfect balance of enhancing the lips’ natural tone whilst providing intense hydration with effortless Parisian ease. Explore the full range of colours instore.
Curated for the discerning, each piece celebrates the art of thoughtful gifting - exclusively at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.
This Christmas, head into Harvey Nichols Birmingham to discover the full range of gifting in person, or book a Personal Shopping appointment and let one of our dedicated stylists bring your festive wish list to life.
Start your festive celebrations early with The High Field’s Festive Jazz Breakfast on Saturday 13th December, from 10am to 12pm. Ease into the day with the smooth sounds of live Christmas jazz in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, share the moment with friends and family, and let your morning unfold with seasonal warmth and cheer.
Then, just a short stroll away, the festive cheer continues with the Christmas Artisan Market, taking over Greenfield Crescent from 10am to 4pm. Wander through up to 80 handpicked stalls brimming with design-led gifts, handmade jewellery, fine homewares, seasonal delicacies, and small-batch gourmet treats. Enjoy the sounds of live festive music as you browse for those last-minute, one-of-a-kind gifts, each lovingly crafted by talented artisans. Whether you’re sipping something warm and spiced or wrapping up your Christmas shopping in style, it’s the perfect way to soak up the season’s sparkle.
For younger guests, the magic begins earlier in the month with Breakfast with Santa on Saturday 6th December, complete with a complimentary visit from Santa when you book in for breakfast - a joyful treat for the whole family. Booking is essential; simply reserve online and quote “Jazz Breakfast” or “Breakfast with Santa” to secure your table.
This Christmas, experience the music, the magic, and the soul of the season - only in Edgbaston Village.
As the year draws to a close, Edgbaston Village invites you to toast the festive season with food, drink, and memorable moments.
For lovers of sparkling wine, Loki Edgbaston hosts An Evening with Exton Park on Wednesday 10th December. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or simply curious, it’s an evening of elegance, insight, and discovery. And with Loki open throughout the festive season, there’s plenty of opportunity to raise a glass at any time.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Chapter invites you to celebrate with a New Year’s Eve à la carte menu, available from noon to 8.30pm. From seared Brixham scallops to grass-fed Aubrey Allen beef, every dish is crafted with care, allowing you to end the year surrounded by friends and family.
For a truly exceptional celebration, Simpsons offers an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience. Guests are welcomed with Champagne on arrival before enjoying a five-course menu that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients, including Beef Wellington as the centrepiece.
The High Field presents a premium menu with a lively DJ set, ideal for enjoying festive food, music, and drinks with friends and family.
If a relaxed pace is more your style, The Physician provides a warm, familiar atmosphere - hearty food, good drinks, and friendly faces. With a few seasonal specials on offer, it’s a comfortable way to ring in the new year without fuss.
Whether it’s a refined tasting at Loki, a festive lunch at Chapter, a Michelin-starred evening at Simpsons, dinner with music at The High Field, or a casual celebration at The Physician, Edgbaston Village has a way to make the end of 2025 unforgettable.
FOR MOST CHEFS, A SATURDAY AT VILLA PARK MEANS SWITCHING OFF THE PASS AND SWITCHING ON THE MATCH. FOR BRAD CARTER, IT NOW MEANS BOTH.
The Birmingham-born chef, whose Carters of Moseley has held a Michelin star since 2015, has joined forces with Aston Villa to transform the club’s 150 Club into something new: a hospitality experience that brings fine dining and fandom together on the same plate.
A dedicated Villa fan since the age of six, Brad’s return to his boyhood club marks a new chapter in his celebrated career and a new era of hospitality at Villa Park, giving fans and guests a unique opportunity to experience his food in an exciting new setting.
Carter’s takeover of the 150 Club comes with three distinct menus, each reflecting a different side of his culinary personality. There’s Chef Brad Carter at Aston Villa 150 Club, a fine dining experience that nods to his Michelin roots; One Star Döner Bar, his cult kebab concept reimagined for matchday; and the new Chicken Club, a playful, family-style offering inspired by terrace food nostalgia.
To experience or gift Aston Villa’s tastiest signing yet, visit:
www.avfc.co.uk/hospitality/michelinmoments
Gift vouchers available at: www.tickets.avfc.co.uk/giftVouchers
FOR ALL ITS SPARKLE AND SENTIMENT, CHRISTMAS CAN BE AN EXHAUSTING TIME.
THE FAIRY LIGHTS ARE TWINKLING, THE SHOPS ARE HEAVING, AND YOUR TO-DO LIST SEEMS TO GROW LONGER BY THE HOUR. FOR ALL ITS SPARKLE AND SENTIMENT, CHRISTMAS CAN BE AN EXHAUSTING TIME. BETWEEN WORK DEADLINES, FAMILY GATHERINGS, PARTIES, PRESENTS AND THE PRESSURE TO MAKE EVERYTHING PERFECT, IT’S NO WONDER SO MANY OF US END UP COLLAPSING ON THE SOFA BY BOXING DAY, WONDERING WHERE OUR FESTIVE SPIRIT WENT.
But what if we did it differently this year? What if the season could feel joyful and manageable. With a little planning and a lot of kindness (mainly towards yourself), it absolutely can. Here’s our guide to staying well, calm and genuinely happy over the festive season.
Every December, television ads and social media feeds set an impossible standard: flawless decorations, matching pyjamas, and roast potatoes that crisp to perfection. The reality, of course, is far different, but far more human.
So, here’s your permission slip to let “perfect” go. If the turkey’s dry, a delivery goes missing, or someone forgets the crackers, it doesn’t matter. You’ll remember the laughter, not the logistics.
Choose joy over performance. Simplify where you can, say no when you need to, and remind yourself that Christmas shouldn’t be measured by Instagram posts or five-star gravy.
The festive season can feel like a marathon of ‘to-do’ lists. Work socials, school concerts, last-minute shopping, back-to-back dinners. It’s easy to get swept up and burn out before the King’s Speech.
You don’t have to attend every invitation or host every meal. It’s perfectly acceptable to say, “Thanks, but I’m having a quiet one tonight.” Rest is not laziness; it’s self-preservation.
If you’re hosting, ask for help. Let others bring dishes, pour drinks, or handle the playlist. A shared effort makes for a shared experience, and a much calmer host.
Think of your energy as a battery. Keep it charged with rest, healthy food, and time alone when you need it. By protecting your peace, you’ll actually have more to give.
When you’re rushing about with arms full of shopping bags or your mind full of lists, your breathing tends to speed up and tighten. A few deep breaths can stop that stress response in its tracks.
Try this:
Inhale through your nose for a slow count of four.
Hold for four.
Exhale gently through your mouth for four.
Repeat three times.
It’s a small act with big impact. You can do it anywhere: in a queue, before a difficult conversation, or even when the wrapping paper runs out again. It’s a moment of calm that costs nothing, but gives plenty.
Exercise might not feel appealing when it’s dark by 4pm and the sofa’s calling, but movement is one of the best remedies for stress. The trick is to make it joyful rather than a chore.
A brisk walk on a crisp morning, a stretch while the kettle boils, or a kitchen dance-off all counts. Movement keeps your energy steady, boosts your mood, and helps counter the sluggishness of too much rich food and too little daylight.
And yes, the traditional Boxing Day walk really does work wonders. Think of it as a reset rather than a regime.
Christmas is deliciously full of temptation with those cheese boards, puddings, mulled wine and mince pies galore. The goal isn’t to resist it all; it’s to find balance.
Eat mindfully. Savour your food instead of grazing endlessly. Include some colourful vegetables alongside the roast, and keep a glass of water nearby. Most of all, drop the guilt. Food is meant to be enjoyed, especially when it’s shared.
Late nights, rich food and fizz can make restful sleep elusive. But if you can keep a gentle rhythm, your body and mind will thank you.
Try winding down half an hour before bed: lights low, screens off, maybe a bath or a book. Even ten minutes of calm before sleep helps your brain switch gears.
If you’re struggling to nod off, don’t panic. A short nap or a quiet sit-down the next day can work wonders.
For some, Christmas isn’t all joy and laughter. It can stir up grief, loneliness, or old tensions. If the season feels heavy, be kind to yourself.
You don’t have to plaster on a smile. Reach out to a friend, a neighbour, a helpline, or a community group. You might be surprised to know how many others feel the same.
It can also help to create your own version of the holiday, one that feels right for you. That might mean volunteering, keeping things small, or spending the day differently. There’s no rulebook for a “proper” Christmas.
Even in the busiest week, try to carve out moments that are just for you. Sit quietly with a cuppa before the chaos begins. Step outside and feel the cold air on your face. Listen to soothing music.
You don’t need an hour-long meditation session. Just a few mindful minutes here and there can help you stay grounded and realise that calm is still possible amid the noise.
After the whirlwind of December, it’s tempting to leap into January with strict resolutions and detox plans. But what if, instead, you eased into it slowly?
Rather than setting punishing goals, think about how you want to feel in the months ahead. Then choose small habits that support those feelings.
New year, same you, just a bit more rested and ready.
Christmas doesn’t need to be perfect to be wonderful. You don’t have to do everything, fix everything, or please everyone. What really matters are the small, genuine moments, the laughter around the table, a walk in the cold, a quiet evening by the tree.
So this festive season, take a breath. Let go of the pressure. Savour what’s in front of you, because the best gift you can give yourself, and everyone around you, is a version of you that’s calm, kind, and well.
Breathe.
Stillness.
WHERE CHRISTMAS BEGINS WITH ELEGANCE, ENTERTAINMENT, AND ARTISANAL INDULGENCE.
This winter, Edgbaston Village invites you to celebrate the magic of the season with two exquisite festive occasions that blend timeless tradition with contemporary charm.
Christmas Lights Switch-On
An unmissable date in the social calendar, the Edgbaston Village Christmas Lights Switch-On returns on Saturday 8th November, transforming Greenfield Crescent into a haven of seasonal magic.
The festivities begin at 3pm, with the Edgbaston Village Artisan Market running from 10am to 6pm. Enjoy an afternoon of live entertainment, including a spellbinding performance by Elmhurst Ballet School, festive choral music, and a Frozen-inspired show to delight all ages. Santa and Mrs Claus will also be there with their signature festive flair.
At 6pm, gather with friends and family as the lights are switched on in a sparkling ceremony that officially marks the start of Christmas in Edgbaston, a moment made for celebrating, shopping, and soaking up the Village’s elegant charm.
Christmas Artisan Market
The festive cheer continues with the Christmas Artisan Market on Saturday 13th December, from 10am to 4pm.
Discover up to 80 handpicked stalls offering design-led gifts, handmade jewellery, fine homewares, seasonal delicacies, and small-batch gourmet treats, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Greenfield Crescent.
Whether you’re browsing for the perfect gift or sipping something warm and spiced, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your Christmas shopping in style.
This festive season experience the sparkle, the style, and the soul of Christmas - only in Edgbaston Village.
Growing Little Ones opens in Edgbaston Village
Say hello to the UK’s first hammam baby spa, now open on Greenfield Crescent. Growing Little Ones is a serene, sensory-led space where ancient rituals meet modern baby care designed to nurture both little ones and their grown-ups.
From calming hydrotherapy and gentle baby massage to unique hammam experiences tailored for tiny bodies, every session is expertly guided to support development, bonding, and relaxation.
Whether you're a new parent or simply looking for something truly special, this isn’t just a spa it's a beautiful new way to connect, unwind, and grow together.
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A curated collection of luxury décor: when it comes to celebrating the festive season in true grandeur, only the most exquisite decorations will do.
A CURATED COLLECTION OF LUXURY DÉCOR: WHEN IT COMES TO CELEBRATING THE FESTIVE SEASON IN TRUE GRANDEUR, ONLY THE MOST EXQUISITE DECORATIONS WILL DO. THIS YEAR, ENHANCE YOUR HOLIDAY AESTHETIC WITH A CURATED SELECTION OF ULTRA-LUXURY CHRISTMAS DÉCOR WHERE EVERY TREE, ORNAMENT, AND LIGHT INSTALLATION IS A STATEMENT OF TIMELESS ELEGANCE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP.
From majestic outdoor lighting displays, an indoor life size Nutcracker to miniature, enamelled sculptures, we bring you exceptional pieces to transform your home and garden into a winter wonderland of refined sophistication.
Here we showcase some extraordinary items that bring the magic of Christmas to life both indoors and out. Each reflect impeccable craftsmanship, timeless design, and price tags that reflect their beauty.
Each item in this curated collection celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and the art of festive expression. Make this festive season one to remember, with pieces that bring charm, character, and elegance to your home.
Add a touch of grandeur to your festive décor with this opulent nutcracker from Harrods. Dressed in velvet red and gilded accents, and adorned with a jewelled crown and feathered plume, this stately figure makes a dramatic statement in any grand hallway or living space.
EXTRA LARGE NUTCRACKER ORNAMENT (178CM)
£2539.00
Towering with festive grandeur, Festive Lights’ breathtaking ‘Statement Tree’ is illuminated by warm white LEDs for a dazzling, energy-efficient glow. Designed for large scale displays, this is the ultimate centrepiece for unforgettable Christmas moments.
STATEMENT TREE
£13,499.99
A rare and complete set of Stuart Devlin’s Twelve Days of Christmas silver and silver-gilt boxes, edition No. 94 of just 100 made between 1970 and 1978. Each box, hallmarked and numbered, opens to reveal a miniature, enamelled sculpture inspired by the carol’s verses, crafted with exquisite detail and adorned with precious hardstones. Housed in original fitted cases, this collection is a true showcase of Devlin’s masterful artistry and a prized acquisition for serious collectors.
TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
£67,039.27
These elegant Fortnum & Mason Christmas Crackers are designed to bring a little sparkle to your table setting. Beautifully made and filled with silver-plated keepsakes, they’re the perfect decorative detail for a truly special occasion. Set includes: 6 Gold Paper Hats, 6 Motto Cards, Silver-plated Cheese Markers, Tea Caddy, Napkin Rings, Bowl & Spoon, Egg Cup & Spoon, Olivewood & Sterling Silver Honey Drizzler.
REGENCY CRACKER
£1,000.00
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When it comes to cooking with a conscience, chef director David Taylor and his team at Grace and Savour can’t be faulted.
When it comes to cooking with a conscience, chef director David Taylor and his team at Grace and Savour (which includes wife Anette) can’t be faulted. From growing their own organic vegetables to foraging, pickling and preserving, the team is also part of the GRFFN Project (Growing Real Food for Nutrition), which means growing methods are monitored for nutrient density.
“We have a team of incredible gardeners we work closely with,” said David, whose restaurant currently has one-Michelin star. “We'll do some picking ourselves for things like flowers and herbs to capture as much freshness as possible, however we listen closely to what our gardeners, Lesley and Caroline, believe is best. In this way we’re reacting to the garden, rather than moulding it to our own needs.”
This focus on produce is prompted by David’s time in Norway’s three Michelin-starred Maaemo.
“Maaemo in Oslo was all about showcasing the very best of Norway, while connecting guests authentically with Norwegian culture,” said David. “I felt the story of our soil and the incredible produce we can grow here in the UK was being underplayed. As such, I really wanted to create something that could reflect and celebrate British produce.
“Championing the best of Britain requires us to take care of our land and seas in every way possible to secure a future for our food and to get the most notorious, tasteful produce.”
Set in the 45-acre family-run Hampton Manor estate, built by Sir Robert Peel’s son, Sir Frederick Peel, vegetables are grown in a Victorian walled garden. The restaurant, however, has a clean-lined, modern, minimalist feel where the staff are casually dressed and the atmosphere is relaxed.
“Anette and I have always strived to create an authentic connection between who you're dining with, the team and the dishes we serve. We wanted to make Grace & Savour a place where special occasions are elevated by warmth, professionalism, and exceptional quality. Yet everything is delivered with such ease and grace that the world fades away, leaving only the company you’re with and the unforgettable experience of dining here.”
David isn’t known for a particular signature dish since his creations change all the time, in keeping with the seasonal produce.
“Fascinatingly, produce rarely returns in season at exactly the same time each year. This means our menu is constantly evolving, with new dishes always in the works.
“However, there is one snack that remains a consistent standout: our crispy Jerusalem artichoke skin, filled with creamed artichokes and bay leaf pickle, topped with delicate slices of apple and thyme leaves. It’s a stand out among guests.
“In terms of plating, we've had a few that stand out. One was a delicate potato basket filled with pickled fennel, fresh fennel, and lobster claw - completely covered, front to back, in marigold flowers. It looked beautiful, but plating enough for the whole restaurant took nearly an hour.
“Another particularly time-consuming one was a walnut serving. We began in spring with green walnuts, turning them into a syrup for a green walnut liqueur. In late summer, we used wet walnuts, which we ‘blackened’ - similar to black garlic, but with walnuts. Finally, in December, we incorporated the mature nut itself. The finished dish celebrated all three stages of the walnut across almost nine months of preparation.”
David and Anette enjoy the creative freedom they’re given by Hampton Manor’s current managing directors, James and Fjona Hill. The latter have always mentored and supported them since their arrival at the estate. 2025 has been a particularly busy year for David’s team. They’re producing the food for weddings and events at Kynd (their new casual eatery i.e. on the estate), participating in Great British Menu, and hosting their first pop-ups.
David added: “Despite the whirlwind, we’re loving the ride and grateful to be busy. Sundays and Mondays are our family days when we ignore emails and focus entirely on nurturing our family relationships.
“A strong, connected home is essential for the support and energy we need to build a successful restaurant. Holidays are wonderful, and we love that extended time together, but it’s the everyday moments where we set important non-negotiables of eating together, screen-free time, family days out, and doing the things that bring us closer. Of course, there are days off when events, work, or commitments disrupt this rhythm, but we don’t let it break our focus on carving out time for each other.”
David and his team are delighted with the response they’ve seen to Grace & Savour since its opening in 2022.
“It’s been deeply humbling. Regular guests aren’t common in this type of dining, but we have many and it means the world that, with so many options, they keep coming back again and again. Recently, our countertop dining space had three couples on the same evening who have collectively been over 20 times. To have a restaurant you feel deeply connected with, and to see it so valued by others, truly means the world.”
www.hamptonmanor.com/grace-savour
Hampton Manor
Shadowbrook Lane
Hampton in Arden
Solihull
B92 0EN
Nestled in the heart of the city, Grand Hotel Birmingham offers a refined escape where timeless elegance meets modern convenience.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Grand Hotel Birmingham offers a refined escape where timeless elegance meets modern convenience. The guest rooms blend classic design with contemporary softness, featuring plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and panoramic city views. Suites elevate the experience with additional furnishings and features, Nespresso machines, and tailored minibars that anticipate every guest’s whim.
The hotel boasts 185 bedrooms including a two-storey Penthouse suite. Accommodation amenities include yoga mat, robes, fresh milk and a Cadbury chocolate bar to enjoy! Each bedroom is unique in layout and characteristic, and designed with the guest in mind.
After a day of exploring the City’s attractions and highlights, retreat to the Grand Hotel Birmingham for an evening of relaxation and elegance.
AS AUTUMN SETTLES AND THE DAYS GROW SHORTER, THE SEASON CALLS FOR A RE-EXPLORATION OF BOTH WARDROBE AND BEAUTY RITUALS. AT HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM, SOPHISTICATION IS FOUND IN THE DETAILS - FROM TACTILE FABRICS AND INDULGENT TEXTURES TO BEAUTY ACCENTS THAT QUIETLY TRANSFORM THE EVERYDAY.
This is the moment to invest in pieces that work as hard as they are refined. A sculptural knit provides warmth and structure, serving as the perfect foundation for effortless layering. Paired with a chocolate suede tote - practical in scale, and indulgent in finish - it strikes that rare balance between utility and elegance. Designed for the pace of contemporary living, they carry you with ease from office elegance to evening allure.
Just as wardrobes evolve, beauty becomes a tool for quiet transformation. A sweep of copper shadow nods to Autumn’s landscape, while the depth of a deep red glossy lip carries you seamlessly into evening. These are not fleeting embellishments but intentional choices, subtle yet powerful accents that echo the richness of Autumn and the indulgence of evenings well spent.
The final layer is fragrance. Indulgent, enveloping, and utterly distinctive. Gritti’s amber-rich scent, presented in a luxurious gilded flacon, Muskaria is more than just a fragrance, it is a statement of identity. Available exclusively at Harvey Nichols, this coveted fragrance house represents the pinnacle of Italian artistry, blending heritage with modern luxury. Deep, sensual, and unforgettable, it lingers long into the night, setting its wearer apart with a note of rarity.
Step into our October and November edit, and discover the must-have staples of the season.
LA MAIILLE CASTANHA WOOL AND CASHMERE-BLEND TOP
£450
This timeless Jacquemus top is the ultimate foundation for a transitional wardrobe. Crafted from a sculptural blend of Castanha wool and cashmere, it offers both warmth and structure. Designed for effortless layering, it carries you from crisp mornings to candlelit evenings with understated elegance.
NEW YORK SUEDE TOTE
£495
The New York tote in chocolate suede by Demellier, balances sustainability with modern polish. Its belted detail and long handles add ease, and the spacious, cotton-lined interior offers discreet security for everything you need. Designed for city living, the New York is the perfect day-to-night bag inspired by the city that never sleeps.
CURATOR EYESHADOW PALETTE
£67
Featuring velvety powders in four finishes, this cruelty-free palette from Hourglass is Autumn’s go-to for a multi-dimensional look. Compact enough to slip into your bag, it layers with ease to transform makeup from subtle daytime polish to evening depth. Available in six styles to suit every mood.
PHANTOM VOLUMIZING GLOSSY BALM
£36
An innovative gloss that hydrates, plumps, and delivers a mirror-like shine. Instantly transformative, the volumizing glossy balm shifts a look from understated to bold with seasonal ease. Pictured left is Impulse, a deep red that silently commands attention and is the perfect companion for any seasonal chic look.
MUSKARIA EXTRAIT DE PARFUM (100ML)
£230
Available exclusively at Harvey Nichols, Gritti’s Muskaria was once a fragrance reserved for the perfumer himself but is now unveiled as an olfactory treasure. Opening with bright bergamot and rose, it deepens into soft leather, warm spice, and sophisticated musks providing a magnetic blend that carries effortlessly from Autumn days into enigmatic evenings.
A designer’s guide to beginning your interior journey
By Michael Novak-Young
So you’ve finally decided it’s time to tackle your home’s interiors. Maybe it’s the tired kitchen tiles that are bothering you, or the living room that never quite feels right. You open Pinterest, fall into a rabbit hole of beautiful spaces, and then close your laptop feeling more overwhelmed than inspired. Sound familiar?
As an interior designer, one of the most common things I hear is: “I don’t even know where to start.” And it’s a completely valid point. Whether you’re redesigning a single room or planning a full home refresh, the beginning can feel like standing at the foot of a mountain with no clear path to the top.
But here’s the good news. You don’t need to have it all figured out before you begin. In fact, the best designs often come from asking the right questions at the start, not from having all the answers. So, here’s a designer’s guide to taking those first few confident steps.
Before you start choosing paint colours or sofas, pause and consider how you want to feel in the space. Calm? Energised? Social? Private? Design isn’t just about how things look. It’s about how your space supports your everyday life.
Ask yourself: What’s working, and what’s not? These answers become your brief.
Visual references are powerful tools. Gather images of spaces you love. Don’t limit yourself to interiors alone, include materials, places, fashion, or artwork that genuinely moves you.
Now look for patterns. Are you drawn to a minimalist white kitchen because it suits your lifestyle, or just because it's trending? The aim is to uncover what consistently resonates with you.
Trying to do everything at once leads to decision fatigue and overspend.
Choose your priorities. Are you updating a specific room? Making your home more family-friendly? Creating a quiet retreat? Define what matters most and set a realistic budget. From there, you can decide whether to take things step by step or complete the work in one go.
One common misstep is rushing into big purchases like sofas or dining tables without considering the bigger picture.
Instead, approach your space in layers:
Foundation: flooring, wall finishes, and lighting
Function: layout, storage, and how the room is used
Feeling: textures, colours, mood, and personal touches
This layered approach helps create a more thoughtful and cohesive design.
Interior design doesn't have to feel overwhelming, and you don’t need a huge budget to bring in a professional. Many designers offer consultations, room-by-room plans, or even virtual services.
A good designer won’t impose a signature style. They’ll help you uncover yours and give you the tools to bring it to life.
The perfect place to start is rarely the perfect-looking place. It’s simply the moment you decide to begin. Be curious, stay open, and give yourself the freedom to evolve your ideas as you go. Great design doesn’t start with a shopping list. It starts with you.
First Class Journeys On The Orient Express
In an age of frictionless travel and vanishing boundaries, there remains one experience that invites slowness, ceremony, and grace. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express does not rush toward a destination, but creates the time in between.
More than a train, this is a curated theatre of movement, nostalgia, and beauty, where every detail, from the weight of the silverware to the scent of polished wood, has been preserved with exquisite intent. It beckons travellers not merely to journey across landscapes, but to traverse eras, stepping into a world where elegance and ritual reign supreme.
Operated by Belmond, the Orient Express revives the glamour
of 1920s and 1930s travel. Its deep-blue lacquered carriages,
art deco interiors, and white-gloved stewards recall an era when the journey itself was a form of art. Here we explore some of the most captivating routes, journeys where landscape and luxury intertwine.
There is something quietly cinematic about departing from Venice as twilight falls. The Orient Express waits at Santa Lucia station, gleaming beneath the Venetian sun, its navy carriages perfectly mirrored in the Grand Canal below.
Boarding here is like stepping into a living painting where time slows, and the outside world seems momentarily suspended. The faint murmur of gondoliers and the distant church bells dissolve behind the closing doors.
The train glides through the Venetian lagoon, soon leaving behind waterways for the rolling hills and vineyards of northern Italy. As night deepens, it climbs into the Dolomites, where snow-capped peaks emerge beneath a starlit sky. In the glow of the dining cars, a sense of anticipation builds. The rhythmic clatter of the rails underfoot becomes hypnotic, punctuated only by the soft clink of crystal and the low murmur of conversation.
Morning reveals the French countryside unfolding gently beyond the windows. Burgundy’s soft green hills roll by, vineyards basking in the early light. The journey concludes at Gare de Lyon in Paris, but the lingering sensation is less about arrival and more about having inhabited a beautifully uninterrupted world.
The Paris to Istanbul route is the Orient Express’s great epic; a sprawling six-night odyssey through five countries, tracing much of the original 1883 journey that cemented the train’s legend. This is travel as storytelling, where each stop brings fresh layers of history and culture. From bustling urban centres to remote mountain passes, the route unfolds like a richly woven tapestry.
Departing from Paris’s Gare de l’Est, the train moves eastward across France’s rural heart, threading the foothills of the Alps. The landscapes shift, the languages change, and the feeling of crossing time grows palpable. After two days on the rails, the train pauses in Budapest where passengers may disembark to explore the grandeur of the Danube. Whether cruising past neo-Gothic Parliament buildings or wandering historic Buda Castle, this city is a chapter in itself, poised between East and West.
Beyond Budapest, the train threads through Romania’s Carpathian Mountains. Stops include Sinaia, where a visit to Peleș Castle offers a taste of royal life. Further on, Bucharest reveals its Belle Époque heritage amid bustling boulevards. The final leg traverses the Bulgarian plains toward the Turkish border. Here the city’s minarets and domes rise against the horizon like a visual crescendo. Istanbul marks more than an endpoint; it is the place where continents meet and histories converge.
There’s something quite theatrical about departing Vienna on the Orient Express. Beneath the soaring roof of Wien Hauptbahnhof, the train gleams against a backdrop of imperial history.. The carriages, midnight blue and gold-trimmed, feel like a deliberate contrast to the modern station.
The train rolls westward, tracing a path once followed by composers, couriers, and crowned heads. Outside, the landscape softens: forests blur into farmland, then deepen again as the train approaches Bohemia.
By nightfall, the train slips into Prague. It lingers here long enough to tempt guests into dining in the city or wandering through its hushed Gothic lanes. Even in brief moments, the city impresses: spires silhouetted against the Vltava, the stone hush of the Old Town Square and the romantic ache of bridges in twilight.
Reboarding, the night deepens. Guests return to their suites turned down, lights dimmed, a quiet turndown note on the pillow. The train begins its final stretch toward France. In the dining car, a last glass of Sauternes is poured; in the bar car, the piano plays something genteel.
By morning, the train is gliding through Champagne. Breakfast arrives just as the outskirts of Paris come into view: a tray of pastries, preserves, and perfect coffee.
There is something quietly cinematic about departing from Singapore aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express. Beneath the lush equatorial sun, the train gleams in green and gold, its vintage carriages a promise of slower rhythms ahead.
Boarding is a step back in time, where wood-panelled cabins and white-gloved stewards recall the colonial elegance of Southeast Asia’s golden era.
As the train glides northward, the city falls away, replaced by rice paddies, palm groves, and kampongs tucked along the tracks. Inside, rattan screens filter the light, casting soft shadows on teak tables set for afternoon tea. The atmosphere is unhurried, each moment wrapped in subtle rituals, from the clink of bone china to the murmur of distant gongs as villages pass like dreams.
Dinner is served as dusk descends: a procession of refined courses - spiced sea bass, tamarind duck, tropical fruit delicately plated, and paired with fine wines and quiet conversation. By morning, the mist lifts to reveal limestone hills and the glint of Penang’s straits. Butterworth arrives not as a destination, but as a gentle hint to a world where past and present meet, and where movement slows just long enough to be remembered.
The Geneva roundtrip offers a distinctive experience; a circular journey beginning and ending in the same place, but revealing new perspectives with every turn of the rails. It’s a meditation on travel itself, free from the impulse of point-to-point urgency. The train moves through the heart of the Alps, rolling past snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and dense pine forests dusted with white. The scenery is as much a part of the experience as the interiors, creating a dialogue between nature and design.
Passengers enjoy uninterrupted views from spacious suites, while the bar car becomes a quiet retreat, ideal for reflection or intimate conversation. By the time the train returns to Geneva, the world feels subtly altered. It is the travel itself, not the destination, that has left its mark.
Beyond the visual splendour and historical allure, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express enchants through its rich sensory tapestry. Dining aboard is an event in itself, where culinary excellence meets theatrical presentation.
Menus celebrate regional specialties reflecting the changing lands outside the window, crafted with care to mirror the journey’s sophistication. Courses arrive in succession, plated with artistry, paired expertly with fine wines from cellars that rival those of renowned châteaux. Each meal is a curated moment of pleasure, heightening the train’s timeless elegance.
The human element, too, breathes life into the experience. The stewards, impeccably dressed in white gloves and tailored uniforms, move with practiced grace, anticipating needs without intruding. Their knowledge of the train’s history and routes adds depth to every interaction, offering stories and anecdotes that make the journey feel personal and unique.
Aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, first-class is not simply a category of service, but a state of being. The meticulous preservation of detail, from gleaming brass fittings to hand-stitched upholstery, creates a space where history and modern comfort coexist. Guests inhabit suites that recall the glamour of a bygone era. The Historic Cabins offer cosy elegance, while the Grand Suites provide a private world of marble baths, polished wood, and silk fabrics.
Travel on the Orient Express is a rare invitation to inhabit time differently. Each route is a narrative, a carefully composed symphony of place, history, and human connection. The train is both vessel and stage, carrying passengers through landscapes that defy haste. Disembarking, the physical journey ends, but the impression will remain. The train’s pace, its details, and its atmosphere linger as a timeless reminder that sometimes the richest journeys are those measured not by miles, but by treasured moments.
And how a financial plan can turn uncertainty into opportunity
Every year, the UK’s Autumn Budget Statement is a hotly anticipated event. For some, it brings the hope of tax cuts or increased public spending. For others, it raises anxiety about what changes may be coming - from income tax and national insurance contributions to pensions, business rates, and benefits. But one thing is certain: the media frenzy around the Budget often stokes fear more than it provides clarity.
In uncertain times, it’s easy to let headlines drive your decisions. But reacting emotionally to budget announcements can lead to costly mistakes. Instead, by keeping calm and focusing on a sound financial plan, you can not only weather economic shifts but potentially turn them into opportunities.
The Autumn Statement is a key fiscal event where the Chancellor of the Exchequer outlines the government's plans for taxation and spending. It's used to update the country on the health of the economy and to make adjustments based on current financial realities.
Because it directly affects personal finances, business operations, and investment climates, many people react strongly - especially if it introduces changes to taxes, benefits, or pension rules. But overreacting or making hasty decisions in response to these announcements is rarely helpful.
It’s important to remember that the Autumn Statement is fundamentally a political tool. Decisions are made in the context of national economic priorities and political strategy - not with individual financial plans in mind.
While changes may have a knock-on effect, such as adjustments to income tax thresholds or capital gains tax, the impact on your long-term financial position is often much less dramatic than it first appears. Jumping to conclusions based on a single budget announcement can lead to rash decisions, such as pulling investments, changing pension contributions, or even selling property - all without proper analysis.
When budget changes are announced, markets may respond quickly, sometimes with volatility. But this initial reaction is rarely sustained. Investors who panic and make knee-jerk decisions often lock in losses that could have been avoided by staying the course.
For example, an increase in corporation tax might cause a temporary dip in business sentiment or share prices, but over time, companies adapt, and markets rebalance. Those with long-term investment strategies typically outperform those who try to time the market.
While the Budget sets the national financial landscape, your personal financial success is more often determined by your planning and behaviour. Having a clear, flexible financial strategy allows you to absorb changes and make adjustments without panic.
A good financial plan acts like a compass. It helps you see the bigger picture and stay on course, even when the economic environment is shifting. Instead of worrying about every policy change, your plan is built around your personal goals - whether that’s saving for retirement, buying a home, or funding your children’s education.
With a solid plan in place, you can assess how changes affect your strategy in a structured way. This clarity helps you act with intention rather than emotion.
Budget changes often present new financial planning opportunities but only if you’re prepared to spot them. For example:
Tax-efficient investing: A rise in income tax could make ISAs or pension contributions more attractive, especially for higher earners.
Business adjustments: Entrepreneurs may find new incentives, grants, or allowances that support growth or innovation.
Capital gains planning: Adjustments to CGT may create windows of opportunity to sell or restructure assets strategically.
By working with a financial planner or adviser, you can review these opportunities in the context of your overall goals and take action where it makes sense.
The most valuable aspect of financial planning is resilience. When you know your income, savings, investments, and insurance are working together in harmony, you’re less likely to panic when external events happen. Your plan can include:
Emergency funds to cover short-term instability
Diversified investments to reduce risk exposure
Debt management strategies to keep liabilities under control
Regular reviews to adapt to new legislation or economic conditions
This proactive approach helps turn challenging times into manageable ones and sometimes even into times of growth.
It’s one thing to read about planning, it’s another to do it. If you’re unsure where to start, or how changes in the Autumn Budget might affect you, consider working with a qualified financial adviser or planner. They can help you:
Understand exactly what budget changes mean for you
Create a bespoke plan tailored to your circumstances
Stay focused on your long-term goals, regardless of political noise
Find efficiencies and opportunities you might have missed on your own
Panic is a poor financial strategy. The Autumn Budget may bring news - good or bad - but it doesn’t have to derail your financial future. By approaching it with a calm, considered mindset and a well-structured plan, you can rise above the noise and make decisions that genuinely serve your goals.
The truth is, financial success is rarely about reacting to government announcements. It's about preparation, discipline, and adaptability. With a financial plan in place, you can look beyond the headlines and see the opportunities that others miss, even in the toughest of times.
For a no-pressure introductory conversation about protecting your estate and legacy, visit southcotefinancial.co.uk or call 0121 661 7014.
Business Property Relief Schemes (BR) invest in assets that are high risk and can be difficult to sell such as shares in unlisted companies. The value of the investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back what they originally invested, even taking into account the tax benefits. Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.
This article is for financial education, not financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, we recommend you seek professional financial advice.
When it came to choosing starters, our waiter noticed we were torn between several tempting options.
Marinated Nocellara & Kalamata olives
Crispy squid with Tajín dusting, lemon & lime mayonnaise
Smokey maple glazed brisket with beef dripping & bacon ketchup
Ox cheek & cheddar croquettes with roquito ketchup
Sticky pork belly with floral soy & honey glaze, pork rind, chilli, lime & chive crumb
Fillet steak with green & pink peppercorn sauce
Fillet steak with truffle butter
Smoky sweet potato with chive crème fraîche, crispy onions & watercress
Grilled baby gem with chive crème fraîche, bacon bits & crispy onions
House slaw of fennel, cabbage, onion, carrot & cider vinaigrette
House vegetables: courgette, mangetout, peas, broad beans, French beans, cavolo nero, pomegranate seeds & almond flakes
Set saffron custard with rhubarb textures, basil & extra virgin olive oil
Ancora Pinot Grigio Rosé
Andes Peaks Merlot
Brûléed Old Fashioned
Americano coffee
When it came to choosing starters, our waiter noticed we were torn between several tempting options. Rather than leave us to decide, the team ensured we sampled an array, a thoughtful gesture that set the tone for the evening: generous, attentive, and confident in the menu.
The starters were full of personality. Crispy squid with Tajín spice and lemon & lime mayo was light and zesty, while the ox cheek and cheddar croquettes delivered rich indulgence with a sweet kick of roquito ketchup. The smokey maple glazed brisket was melt-in-the-mouth, deepened by beef dripping and bacon ketchup. Best of all was the sticky pork belly, glazed with soy and honey, topped with pork rind, lime, and chive crumb - a dish that balanced sweetness, savouriness, and crunch with perfection.
The fillet steaks were the undeniable stars of the main event. Cooked flawlessly to a tender, blushing pink, they required little more than a knife’s touch. One paired with a creamy green and pink peppercorn sauce, the other finished with truffle butter - two variations, equally indulgent. Sides impressed as much as the mains: smoky sweet potato with chive crème fraîche and crispy onions was playful and hearty, while grilled baby gem with bacon added smoky crunch. A sharp house slaw and a vibrant medley of seasonal vegetables - courgette, mangetout, peas, broad beans, French beans, and cavolo nero, finished with pomegranate seeds and almond flakes - proved that vegetables, when prepared with care, can steal the spotlight.
Dessert carried the same balance of indulgence and surprise. The set saffron custard, delicate and silky, was paired with rhubarb in multiple textures, bringing tartness and intrigue. The addition of basil and extra virgin olive oil lent a savoury sophistication, transforming the dish into something both daring and elegant. Drinks were equally well-judged: a crisp Pinot Grigio Rosé, a smooth Merlot, and the theatrical brûléed Old Fashioned, smoky and indulgent. A simple Americano closed the evening with quiet finesse.
Cow & Sow is a standout in Birmingham’s dining scene. With its mix of indulgence, creativity, and genuine hospitality, it delivers a meal that feels as generous as it is unforgettable.
Think of it as one of the most effective assets in the property market: a silent sales person that frames a property in its best light, highlights its true potential, and helps buyers to imagine themselves living within its walls.
Staging a property is often a misunderstood skill. Too many people still see it as just a decorative addition, an extra layer of cushions, artwork, or furniture chosen to ‘pretty up’ an empty space. In reality, staging is a strategic tool that goes far beyond appearances. Think of it as one of the most effective assets in the property market: a silent sales person that frames a property in its best light, highlights its true potential, and helps buyers to imagine themselves living within its walls.
Done with care and intent, staging can shape perceptions, communicate value, and create a genuine emotional connection with the correct target demographic. Done poorly, however, it can distract, confuse, or even diminish the very asset it is meant to enhance.
Effective staging is purposeful. It involves more than simply placing a sofa in a lounge or setting a dining table because the room looks bare without it. Every detail, from the scale of the furniture to the texture of a throw, must reflect the value of the home, the functionality of the space and the dreams of the likely buyer.
For luxury homes, quality and refinement are essential. A buyer considering a multi-million-pound property expects exclusivity, attention to detail, and an environment which reflects their lifestyle. If they walk into a living room that’s filled with mass-produced furnishings, their illusion collapses. Instead of instilling confidence, the staging creates doubt: if corners have been cut here, where else might compromises exist? Trust, once broken, is extremely difficult to rebuild.
At the same time, professional mid-market homes require a slightly different approach. Here, buyers want spaces that feel modern, stylish, and aspirational, but are also believable and attainable. The goal is to strike the perfect balance between ambition and reality, showcasing a lifestyle that inspires, but one that still feels within reach.
Whether at the very top of the market or within the competitive mid-range, the principle is the same: staging should reflect not just the property, but the lifestyle buyers either already enjoy or hope to achieve.
In today’s property market, the first encounter between a buyer and a home rarely happens in person. The majority of buyers first see a property online, either through portals, social media, or virtual tours. How a home appears in photos and videos can make or break interest before anyone steps through the door.
Every choice, from lighting and layout to colour palettes and accessories, influences online perception. Cluttered or poorly proportioned rooms can appear smaller or less inviting, while carefully staged spaces convey scale, flow, and lifestyle. Well-staged homes photograph better, stand out on listings, generate more enquiries, and ultimately increase footfall for viewings, improving the likelihood of a sale. Staging, in this sense, begins the buyer’s emotional journey before they ever set foot inside.
While aesthetics may capture attention, functionality and authenticity sustain it. Buyers are quick to sense when a home feels staged for show rather than for life. Durability and practicality must play a central role. In environments such as hotels, serviced apartments, or multi-residence developments, furnishings must withstand heavy use while still represent beauty. Fabrics need to resist wear, finishes must be robust, and layouts should make movement and cleaning straightforward.
Likewise, in private residences, staging should mirror reality. Dining areas should hint at family meals, living spaces should look inviting enough for long evenings, and storage solutions must feel intuitive. When these functional elements are ignored, staging risks creating a sense of artificiality that buyers instinctively recognise.
Another common oversight is the reliance on a “one-style-fits-all” formula. Using the same collection of furniture across multiple properties may simplify operations, but it strips homes of their individuality. Buyers often tour several properties in succession, and when they see identical furnishings being repeated, the homes begin to feel generic and forgettable. Worse still, applying budget-friendly staging to high-value homes can inadvertently reduce their perceived worth.
Today’s buyers are more discerning than ever. Influenced by countless hours scrolling through property portals, Instagram feeds, and Pinterest boards, they understand style and design. They can tell when furnishings feel cheap, mismatched, or out of sync with the property. Conversely, when staging feels tailored, authentic, and aligned with their ambitions, it resonates deeply. Buyers leave thinking: “This feels like home.” That moment of connection often transforms casual curiosity into a serious commitment.
As explained, purposeful staging is not simply a creative exercise, but an active financial strategy. Properties styled with intent consistently attract more interest, spend less time on the market, and command stronger offers. Each day a property remains unsold carries costs (maintenance, utilities, financing, etc) and erodes its momentum in the marketplace. Tailored staging reduces this risk and drives faster sales.
It also bridges the imagination gap. Empty rooms, particularly those with awkward layouts or expansive open-plan designs, can be difficult for buyers to interpret. Without guidance, buyers may struggle to visualise where furniture should go, how spaces can function, or what lifestyle the home supports. Curated staging eliminates any uncertainty. By presenting spaces with carefully considered scale, proportion, and style, it brings clarity and inspires imagination. Instead of asking questions, buyers begin to picture themselves living there.
Staging is not an optional extra. It is a proven method of storytelling that conveys professionalism, builds trust, and sets properties apart in crowded markets.
At Swealthy Staging, we believe every property has its own story to tell. That story begins with understanding its value, its purpose, and the audience it is designed to attract.
Our approach ensures that properties are not only presented beautifully, but also functionally and authentically. The result is an environment that connects with buyers on both a practical and emotional level, creating spaces that are memorable, desirable, and positioned for success.
If you’re ready to stage smarter and with greater impact, Swealthy Staging can help. Visit swealthystaging.com to discover how tailored, strategic staging can both transform your property and capture the hearts of buyers you want to attract.
New developments. Prime locations. Expert management.
Birmingham's skyline is transforming with stunning new apartment developments, creating exceptional investment opportunities in the heart of the UK's second city.
Have you invested in Birmingham's new apartment blocks?
Three2Six Real Estate Agents specializes in maximizing returns for apartment investors across Birmingham city centre. With £50 million plus portfolio under management and deep local expertise, we understand what makes city centre properties profitable.
With the Autumn Budget approaching, housing market dynamics could shift significantly.
Whether it's changes to capital gains tax, stamp duty adjustments, or new landlord regulations, savvy investors are securing professional management now to navigate whatever changes lie ahead.
Why choose Three2Six for your apartment investment?
City Centre Specialists – We know Birmingham's apartment market inside out
Full Management Service – From tenant screening to maintenance, we handle everything
Budget-Ready Expertise – We'll help you adapt to any policy changes
Technology-Driven – Advanced property management platform with AI integration
Local Expertise – 5-18 years of Birmingham real estate experience
Whether your new apartment is in the prestigious Jewellery Quarter or prime city centre locations, we'll ensure it delivers optimal rental yields while keeping you compliant with evolving regulations.
Don't wait for budget uncertainty. Secure expert management today:
Call Three2Six Real Estate Agents - specialists in Birmingham City Centre Apartments
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In today’s wellness-driven world, food goes beyond basic nutrition. It reflects a desire to live longer, care for ourselves, and make intentional choices.
“Rarely do we need pharmaceuticals,” states Steven Moxon, nutritionist and Founder of Spice Realm, a brand known for its premium, globally inspired superfood blends. “True wellness begins with understanding the body’s ability to heal when supported by nature’s most potent compounds. It’s about restoring balance and resilience from within.”
This philosophy shapes our curated list of ten essential superfoods - ingredients steeped in tradition, backed by science, and elevated by culinary elegance. From antioxidant-rich berries to nutrient-dense seeds and clean proteins, they offer a luxurious, natural path to wellness and self-care.
Each of these superfoods offer more than health benefits, they embody a mindful, curated approach to living well. Rich in function and flavour, they reflect a lifestyle where nourishment is intentional, elegant, and personal.
“When you choose quality ingredients that nourish and delight the senses,” Steven concludes, “you’re not just eating, you’re investing in future vitality.”
Content verified and quotes provided by Steven Moxon, Nutritionist,
Founder and CEO of Spice Realm, Hertfordshire
Packed with nutrients that surpass those of their cultivated cousins, wild blueberries are nature’s tiny powerhouses. These diminutive berries contain significantly higher levels of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation linked to ageing and chronic diseases like heart disease and neurodegenerative conditions. Harvested from the pristine forests of North America, blueberries are picked at peak ripeness to preserve maximum nutritional potency.
Respected health researcher and evidence-based nutrition
advocate Mr Moxon, highlights their benefits: “Eating wild blueberries regularly may support brain health and memory as we age.” This endorsement reinforces their reputation for promoting cognitive
vitality and healthy ageing.
Wild blueberries offer more than just nutrition. Their sweet-tart flavour and vibrant taste make them a favourite in refined cooking. Whether enriching smoothies, layering parfaits, or folded into gourmet pastries, they bring taste and texture to every dish. Paired with creamy dairy, toasted nuts, or aromatic herbs like mint and basil, they elevate recipes with effortless refinement.
Thanks to their year-round availability in frozen form, wild blueberries have evolved from a seasonal delicacy to a pantry staple for discerning wellness enthusiasts. In today’s high-end culinary world, they offer a delicious, elegant way to support vitality while delighting the palate.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has long been revered for culinary versatility as well as for its health benefits. Extracted through cold pressing to preserve delicate polyphenols and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, premium EVOO is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, a pattern linked to increased longevity and reduced cardiovascular risk. Its bioactive compounds combat inflammation, support healthy cholesterol, and aid cellular repair, making it a truly functional fat.
Olive oil is widely regarded as one of the cleanest and most protective fats available, explaining why it remains a cornerstone for those seeking taste and wellness. The hallmark of luxurious EVOO lies in its provenance and production. Early-harvested oils offer the finest quality, characterised by ultra-low acidity and complex flavour profiles, from vibrant peppery notes to gentle fruity undertones. These layers come alive when enjoyed raw, drizzled over sun-ripened tomatoes, steamed vegetables, or artisanal breads, elevating meals into sophisticated experiences.
Incorporating premium EVOO into daily rituals is a mindful act - a luxurious, healthful ritual that transforms simple eating into a celebration of wellness and flavour.
Though tiny, chia seeds pack an outsized nutritional punch, these ancient seeds are exceptionally rich in plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fibre, complete protein, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Soaked in liquid, they swell into a gel-like consistency slowing digestion, helping regulate blood sugar and to prolong feelings of fullness - qualities highly prized in holistic and functional nutrition.
Chia seeds are excellent plant sources of essential omega-3s the body cannot produce on its own. This makes chia a vital addition for those seeking to support heart and brain health.
Culinary versatility is one of chia’s greatest strengths. Its mild, neutral flavour allows it to be seamlessly incorporated into a wide range of dishes from luxurious chia puddings and vibrant smoothie bowls to nutrient-boosted gluten-free baking. Visually, the tiny seeds lend an elegant, almost jewel-like texture, striking a perfect balance between comfort and nourishment.
For the discerning luxury wellness enthusiast, this humble seed offers convenience, longevity, and functionality without compromising taste or sophistication. Whether sprinkled over salads or blended into artisanal health drinks, chia seeds quietly elevate any culinary creation into a refined, nutrient-rich experience.
Manuka honey, derived from the nectar of New Zealand’s native Manuka bush, is a rare and highly prized honey renowned for its exceptional therapeutic properties. Its concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO) - a bioactive compound - delivers powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects that conventional honey cannot equal.
For centuries, Māori communities used parts of the Manuka plant medicinally to treat wounds, fevers, and digestive issues. Today, science supports many of these uses. Studies show Manuka honey promotes wound healing, prevents infection, soothes sore throats, eases acid reflux and gastritis, and may reduce harmful oral bacteria.
Beyond medicinal benefits, Manuka honey is highly regarded in both wellness and gourmet circles. Its deep, earthy sweetness with herbaceous or bitter notes enhances herbal teas, smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, sourdough toast, and even savoury dishes like glazes, vinaigrettes, and cheese boards.
As both a functional superfood and gastronomic delicacy, Manuka honey offers a rare fusion of science-backed healing and sensory delight: nature’s gift in every spoonful.
Known as the “Miracle Tree,” moringa has earned its place among the world’s most powerful and revered superfoods. Native to the foothills of the Himalayas and widely used in Ayurvedic tradition, moringa leaves are exceptionally rich in essential nutrients, boasting seven times more vitamin C than oranges, fifteen times more potassium than bananas, and a potent array of antioxidants, amino acids, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
“Moringa isn’t just nutrient-dense,” states Spice Realm’s Founder, Steven Moxon. “It’s deeply regenerative, supporting cellular health, hormonal balance, and natural detoxification in a way few plants can.” Particularly valued for its chlorophyll content and high bioavailability, moringa is a tonic for modern life, addressing fatigue, oxidative stress, and immune imbalance with quiet power.
In its powdered form, moringa blends effortlessly into smoothies, elixirs, or artisan lattes, giving a gentle, earthy note similar to matcha but with a more herbaceous edge. Infused into broths or paired with citrus and ginger, it elevates both sweet and savoury recipes with verdant complexity.
For the modern wellness enthusiast, moringa represents the intersection of ancient wisdom and refined nourishment. It’s not just a supplement, it’s a daily ritual of renewal, grounding the body in vitality while inviting a deeper connection to nature’s healing intelligence.
Lacinato kale, also known as Tuscan or dinosaur kale, is a nutrient-dense leafy green treasured for its exceptional health benefits and culinary versatility. Unlike its curly cousin, Lacinato kale boasts dark, tender leaves with a milder, sweeter flavour, making it a favourite for chefs and nutritionists. This super green is rich in calcium, fibre, Vitamins A, and C, and sulforaphane, a powerful chemical studied for its detoxification and anti-cancer properties.
The remarkable qualities of Lacinato kale are praised by Spice Realm’s Steven Moxon, describing it as “a detox hero, especially when massaged with olive oil.” This simple ritual softens the leaves and enhances the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients, elevating both taste and nutritional impact.
In haute cuisine, Lacinato kale’s uses are beautifully diverse, from vibrant raw salads and hearty soups to irresistible crispy kale chips that balance crunch with deep flavour. The tactile experience of massaging kale with premium olive oil creates an intimate, mindful connection between food and wellbeing - perfect for luxury lifestyles focused on holistic health.
Its robustness and adaptability make Lacinato kale a culinary and nutritional staple for those who value both taste and vitality. Serving this sophisticated green signals thoughtful eating and a commitment to vibrant health; an essential element in the refined wellness repertoire.
Effervescent, tangy, and refreshingly light, coconut kefir is quickly becoming a staple in the refined wellness repertoire. Made by fermenting coconut water or coconut milk with live cultures, this probiotic-rich elixir delivers excellent gut health support. Unlike dairy kefir, it’s entirely plant-based, offering a clean alternative for those seeking digestive balance without compromise.
Coconut kefir contains a diverse spectrum of beneficial bacteria and yeasts that help restore microbiome harmony, supporting immunity, mental clarity, and skin health. The gut is the seat of vitality. Coconut kefir nourishes that foundation while bringing in the added benefits of hydrating electrolytes and natural enzymes.
Beyond its function, coconut kefir is also an experience. Its subtly sweet, fizzy profile offers a sophisticated alternative to sugary drinks or conventional sodas. Served chilled in a stemmed glass with a sprig of mint or a splash of citrus, it transforms into a daily ritual of conscious luxury.
Whether consumed as a morning tonic, post-workout refresher, or a base for probiotic smoothies, coconut kefir embodies modern wellness. More than a beverage; it’s a living expression of healthful indulgence.
Dark chocolate, especially varieties boasting 85% or higher cacao content, is much more than a decadent indulgence. It’s a potent superfood packed with health-boosting compounds. Rich in flavonoids, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, high-quality dark chocolate supports vascular health by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cognitive function. The flavonoids found in cacao stimulate nitric oxide production, which relaxes blood vessels and promotes healthy circulation, crucial for heart and brain health alike.
A few squares of dark chocolate daily can reduce stress and lower inflammation. This scientific validation has helped reposition dark chocolate from a guilty pleasure to a functional food celebrated for its therapeutic benefits.
For the luxury consumer, single-origin, fair-trade dark chocolates provide a sophisticated tasting experience, with complex flavour notes ranging from bright fruity to deep smoky undertones. These chocolates pair exquisitely with robust red wines, freshly brewed coffee, or seasonal fruits, to create a sensory journey that combines indulgence with mindful wellness.
Beyond its taste and health benefits, dark chocolate represents the art of balancing pleasure and purpose. It offers discerning palates a way to satisfy cravings thoughtfully, making it a perfect companion for those who seek to enjoy luxury with sophistication.
Hemp seeds, often called hemp hearts, offer a delicate crunch and subtly buttery flavour, making them an understated yet powerful addition to any health-conscious diet. Renowned for their nearly perfect balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, hemp seeds provide complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, along with the rare anti-inflammatory gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This unique nutritional profile supports brain health, cardiovascular function, and helps reduce systemic inflammation; key pillars of long-term wellbeing.
Culinary versatility is a hallmark of hemp seeds. They can be effortlessly sprinkled over vibrant salads, blended into creamy smoothies, or stirred into warm porridges, elevating everyday dishes with a subtle crunch and nourishing boost. Their mild flavour ensures they complement a range of ingredients, making them a favourite among chefs and nutritionists alike.
From an eco-conscious perspective, hemp cultivation is both sustainable and regenerative, further appealing to luxury consumers invested in ethical and healthful living. Incorporating hemp seeds into daily meals transforms simple recipes into sophisticated, nutrient-rich experiences - an understated luxury for the modern wellness enthusiast who values both taste and purpose.
Wild salmon stands as a celebrated superfood, prized for its rich supply of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health, cognitive function, and reducing systemic inflammation. Beyond these benefits, wild salmon contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant responsible for its signature pink hue, which offers powerful skin and cellular protection, helping to combat oxidative stress and aging.
Salmon supports cardiovascular and cognitive vitality. It’s the pinnacle of clean protein. This reinforces why wild salmon remains a cornerstone of health-conscious diets worldwide.
Sourcing sustainably caught wild salmon, such as the highly regarded Alaskan or New Zealand Ora King varieties, ensures both superior flavour and environmental stewardship. These premium fish boast rich, buttery flesh with delicate textures and complex flavours, making them a favourite among gourmet chefs.
Culinary preparation options are diverse. Whether gently poached, expertly grilled, or elegantly cured, wild salmon elevates any dish with its luxurious taste and health benefits. Its presence on the plate is a statement of mindful indulgence, seamlessly marrying nourishment and sophistication.
For discerning consumers, wild salmon is a timeless ingredient that delivers deep satisfaction while capturing the essence of wellness and refinement; a true luxury superfood for those who demand the best in both taste and nutrition.
People tend to shy away from colourful kitchens, under the old assumption it could date more quickly than the ‘safer’ black, grey, or white colour palette. But not so. Bolder, braver colour combinations have arrived.
The heart of the home, the kitchen is where life plays out, and that should be reflected within the room - more than a mere practical place to cook, it’s where people tend to congregate when socialising, carry out homework under the watchful eye of parents preparing dinner, and more recently, an extension to the office.
Do not be afraid of colour or finishes which can provide incredible depth. We have a fabulous metallic-finish kitchen in our showroom, an exclusive Italian brand, it captivates and several discerning customers (naming no names), have chosen it for their homes. The Italians are known for their incredibly progressive style, and their new colour palettes across cabinetry is the cornerstone to breathtaking designs with subtle pink, golden and green colours forming just a few of the new kitchen trends.
Add to this a layering effect with wonderful textural finishes such as faux leather tops for a head turning statement. Deep, warm, and natural tones are proving extremely popular in this move towards characterful and personality-filled spaces, but as a designer, what I am most excited by is the ability to turn practical storage elements into real wow factors – works of art! The kitchen is an expressive space – a reflection of you and your lifestyle and the tide has changed, colour is the crest of the wave. Time to join the movement…
13-15 Kenilworth Street, Royal Leamington Spa, CV32 4QS 01926 774764 | veritasinteriors.com
For those who seek silence, beauty, and spiritual luxury beyond the predictable, Bhutan offers a path less travelled - a journey into a kingdom that lives, breathes, and believes in stillness.
A hidden sanctuary in the sky: High in the folds of the Eastern Himalayas lies a kingdom seemingly untouched by time. Bhutan, mysterious, contemplative, and cloaked in mist, feels more like a myth than a modern nation. This tiny landlocked country, cradled between the ancient powerhouses of India and China, has long guarded its sacred traditions, unspoiled forests, and quiet spiritualism with unwavering pride. Bhutan doesn’t chase the world; it preserves its soul.
For the ultra-discreet traveller, this is spiritual luxury. Bhutan offers not the ostentation of five-star excess, but something far more rare: a presence. It is a country where mountain air smells of pine and incense, where crimson-robed monks chant in candle-lit sanctuaries, and where the silence carries a weight that somehow lightens the soul.
This is not a country where one arrives accidentally. Tourism is tightly regulated by the government’s pioneering “High Value, Low Volume” policy, ensuring that each visitor treads lightly - environmentally, culturally, and spiritually. Instead of mass-market resorts and over-touristed landmarks, Bhutan offers forested retreats, heritage-rich lodges, and a cultural immersion so intimate, so authentic, it quietly humbles even the most jaded globetrotter.
Time here bends and slows. Days begin with the sound of temple bells echoing through emerald valleys and end with prayers whispered beneath the Himalayan stars. This is a quiet recalibration of the soul, similar to a deep exhale after years of holding your breath.
There is no better way to experience Bhutan’s deep serenity than through Amankora, Aman’s circuit of five luxury lodges across the country’s central valleys. This isn’t simply accommodation, but a pilgrimage in comfort, curated for reflection, intimacy, and spiritual depth.
Each lodge offers a unique expression of Bhutanese culture and landscape, yet all are connected by Aman’s signature aesthetic: minimalist architecture, flawless discretion, and reverent design. The name itself - Aman meaning “peace” in Sanskrit, and kora, a “circular pilgrimage” in Dzongkha - perfectly captures the essence of the journey.
In Thimphu, Bhutan’s understated capital, Amankora is cocooned within a blue pine forest, its structures blending seamlessly into the landscape. The lodge’s stone walls and wood-burning stoves exude warmth, while its library, spa, and private dining rooms invite stillness. Mornings might begin with a private hike to Cheri Goemba, a 17th-century monastery shrouded in mist, followed by a blessing from a monk or a herbal foot soak upon your return. Afternoons might be spent with a master weaver, learning the symbolic intricacies of handwoven kira or gho garments.
The scenic drive to Punakha - over the Himalayan Dochula Pass - is more than a route; it's a moving meditation. Punctuated by 108 chortens and panoramic views, it’s a soul-stirring transition into the subtropical valley below. Amankora Punakha occupies a traditional farmhouse once used by the Queen Mother. Here, days unfold gently: outdoor yoga beside rice paddies, riverside picnics, visits to Punakha Dzong with its whitewashed walls rising like a fortress of light, and candle-lit hot stone baths prepared under the stars.
In Gangtey, the setting becomes even more remote and more mystical. The lodge overlooks the Phobjikha Valley, where rare, black-necked cranes winter amid swaying grasses and sacred forests. This is the land of long walks, tea by floor-to-ceiling windows, and long silences broken only by birdsong. Nearby, the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery invites guests to observe young monks chanting their morning lessons.
In Bumthang, often called the spiritual heart of Bhutan, Amankora is a short walk from ancient temples and relics believed to hold the ashes of saints. The energy here feels ancient, almost mythic. You’ll explore monasteries where butter lamps flicker in stone chambers and monks chant centuries-old mantras with solemn grace. The stillness is profound.
Finally, in Paro, you prepare for Bhutan’s most iconic experience: the climb to Taktsang Monastery, known as the Tiger’s Nest. Clinging impossibly to a cliffside 3,000 feet above the valley floor, this sacred site is equal parts physical challenge and spiritual gift. Amankora’s private guides pace the journey according to your breath rather than your watch – ensuring moments of deep connection instead of exhaustion. The reward? Tea with panoramic views and a heart cracked open.
If Amankora is Bhutan’s spiritual pilgrimage, then Six Senses Bhutan is its immersive wellness odyssey. With five lodges spread across the same five valleys - each uniquely designed to reflect its surroundings - Six Senses offers sensorial storytelling through architecture, rituals, and holistic wellbeing.
At Six Senses Thimphu, perched on a mountain ridge above the capital, you’re enveloped in contemplative grandeur. The architecture, inspired by a dzong fortress, frames vast courtyards and quiet pathways. Arrival begins not with check-in but with a juniper purification ritual, followed by a wellness consultation that sets the tone for your stay. From here, your journey unfolds: forest bathing through pine trails, guided breathwork, reiki healing, and deeply restorative massages using wild-foraged herbs.
In Punakha, the “flying farmhouse” is one of the most striking properties in the kingdom. Suspended above rice terraces and the Mo Chhu river, it’s a design marvel and a spiritual sanctuary. Days here feel dreamlike - floating in a cantilevered infinity pool as prayer flags flap in the breeze, or dining beneath the stars after a silent river blessing.
Gangtey is where time halts completely. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls dissolve the boundary between you and the sacred valley, allowing the outside world to breathe into your suite. At dawn, monks chant blessings just across the valley, and you might find yourself sipping ginger tea in silence, watching cranes dance through mist.
Each lodge is attended by a GEM (Guest Experience Maker) - your personal host and curator, fluent in both comfort and culture. Want a sunrise picnic on a mountaintop? A spontaneous prayer ceremony for a loved one? A one-on-one with a local lama? Simply whisper the desire.
Although spectacular, Bhutan is not defined by its vistas but by its spiritual pulse. This is a land where devotion is woven into the fabric of daily life. Prayer wheels spin on every corner, temples flicker with butter lamps, and the air hums with the low drone of mantras.
Luxury properties here offer something rare: access to authentic, unscripted rituals. You may find yourself lighting 108 butter lamps in a hillside monastery, each flame representing a prayer for healing. You might sit in a private puja ceremony, monks chanting your name in blessings while you sit on the temple floor, hands folded, breath held.
There’s the quiet ritual of hoisting prayer flags at a mountain pass, each bearing your intentions to be carried on the wind. Or perhaps a sacred astrology reading, delivered in a wooden room by a lama whose lineage traces back centuries. These are not performances for tourists, they are glimpses into a way of life still deeply intact.
And sometimes, the most profound moments are unplanned: a shared silence with a monk, a spontaneous smile from a child in a remote village, or a moment of reflection as mist curls across the mountains like prayer.
In Bhutan, food is medicine, memory, and mindfulness combined. Meals are nourishing and inspired by the earth. Ingredients are almost always seasonal and local, grown in lodge gardens or sourced from nearby villages.
Start your day with fresh yak yogurt, herbal infusions, and warm buckwheat pancakes. At lunch, you might try ema datshi, a chilli and cheese dish that is Bhutan’s unofficial national treasure, paired with nutty red rice and wild mushrooms foraged nearby. At night, menus often include grilled river trout, roasted root vegetables, or momos - delicate dumplings filled with nettles, cheese, or spinach.
Both Amankora and Six Senses offer private dining that is as soulful as it is sophisticated: farm-table breakfasts with mountain views, outdoor tandoor feasts, or candle-lit dinners in 17th-century farmhouses where every creak of the floorboards tells a story.
Even beverages reflect the spirit of place: from wild tea infusions to Bhutanese whiskey and a curated selection of organic wines.
There is no place quite like Bhutan. In a world of louder, faster, shinier, Bhutan invites you to slow down, strip back, and rediscover the sacred in simplicity.
You won’t leave Bhutan with flashy souvenirs or crowded camera rolls. Instead, you’ll leave with something rarer: the memory of stillness, the echo of mountain bells, the scent of pine and incense, and the feeling of being entirely present. Bhutan doesn’t change for its visitors. But if you let it, it will change you.
10 Luxury Essentials For The Modern Traveller
Travelling in style is no longer just about the destination, it’s about the journey, the details, and the curated essentials that define each moment. From handcrafted luggage to state-of-the-art tech and luxurious silk loungewear, today’s luxury traveller demands both form and function wrapped in sophistication.
Whether you're escaping to a private island or arriving in first-class comfort, these meticulously selected travel must-haves blend elegance with utility to ensure you never compromise on excellence, no matter where you roam. In this guide, we unveil ten premium essentials that redefine what it means to travel well.
TUMI UK
Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium and distinguished by its fluid, sculpted lines, this carry-on is as resilient as it is refined. Protective corner caps and secure clasp closures safeguard your belongings, while the smooth-glide wheels and telescopic handle ensure effortless movement through terminals. Inside, intelligently designed compartments keep essentials neatly organised, making it the ultimate blend of form, function, and first-class style. (Also available in gold).
£4,315
LAUNER LONDON
The largest in the trio, offering generous capacity without sacrificing refinement. Its silhouette balances functionality with understated luxury, making it the ultimate companion for longer journeys.
£3,195
LAUNER LONDON
Compact, yet generous, the Hatherton Overnight Bag features reinforced handles, protective studs, multiple interior pockets, and a central zip with storm flap and engraved padlock. Perfect for hand luggage, it nests nearly inside its larger counterparts.
£3,650
MÉTIER
Metier’s Nomad Weekender is crafted for effortless travel, with
smart proportions, a spacious interior, and a comfortable carry. Thoughtful details like hidden magnetic pockets, expandable sides, and a detachable strap make it the ultimate carry-on companion
for longer getaways. Also available in Suede Marrakech and
Suede Bergen.
£3,150
MÉTIER
Available in Suede Marrakech or Buffalo Cacao, featuring a 14” laptop sleeve, hidden magnetic pockets, and solid brass hardware, this durable, weather-ready backpack ages gracefully with every mile.
£650
ALABAMA MIRA by Olivia von Halle
The Alabama Mira set redefines the art of travel dressing. Imagined in black or soft pink silk crêpe de chine and fastened with lustrous pearlescent buttons, it’s an ode to effortless glamour on the move. The bold, archival-inspired print carries a touch of Olivia von Halle’s signature. Officially pyjamas, yet destined for far more, this is the piece that slips seamlessly from sun-drenched lounging to twilight aperitifs abroad.
£350
AUDREY ASTRID from Olivia von Halle
The Audrey Astrid eye mask is the travel companion. Cut from lustrous bronze silk-satin and traced with shimmering crystal details, it brings couture-level polish to even the quietest hours. Tucked inside its own bespoke case, this indulgent accessory ensures that resting on the move feels as refined as arriving.
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£1,999
CLARA from Audio Concierge
A premium in-ear monitor crafted in black PVD stainless steel with precision machined aluminium detailing. Offering balanced sound, textured lows, smooth mids, and crystalline highs, Clara is as elegant in form as it is in performance.
£2,449
HIFIMAN from Audio Concierge
The HiFiMan HE1000 V2 is an award-winning magnetic headphone featuring the world’s first nanometre-thin diaphragm and asymmetrical magnetic circuit. Re-nowned for expansive, transparent sound with minimal distortion.
£2,250
BENTLEY
Crafted to celebrate the Continental GT Speed, this exclusive three-piece set is crafted from premium Italian leather and embossed with the Bentley emblem. Available in Gravity Grey with bold accent colours (Mandarin, Kingfisher, or Hotspur) this collection is limited in number and presented in signature dust bags – a true collector’s edition.
From Hitchcock to Steven Soderbergh and Casino Royale’s Martin Campbell, Lake Como in Italy’s Lombardy region exudes, charm, luxury and beauty.
Today it’s home to the likes of Madonna, George Clooney, Sylvester Stalone and Sir Richard Branson. But tourists too are drawn to the romance of waterfront villas, picturesque villages and stately mountain backdrops.
The largest of the lakeside locations in the Italian Alps is Como itself. This city, a one-hour drive from Milan, provides ferries to the various towns dotted around these crystal-clear emerald-green waters. All are worth a visit, if you happen to be time-rich.
Before embarking on that ferry trip though, it’s worth a look around Como itself. History and religious lovers can admire the centuries old centre of town where you’ll find the towering Duomo di Como cathedral and the Basilica of San Fedele. Walk along the waterfront and you’ll encounter the 18th century Villa Olmo with its famous gardens. Stop and have a meal at some of the many lakeside restaurants. Dishes the city is famous for include Risotto al Pesce Persico and Ossobuco alla Milanese.
A trip on the funicular takes you to the pretty village of Brunate, where you can enjoy a drink while admiring the view. Also worth a visit is the Silk Museum, silk weaving being a traditional craft in the city.
Some of Lake Como’s most famous lakeside towns, which are approachable via ferry, include Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio.
Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como,’ Bellagio simply smacks of elegance and opulence. Pretty coloured houses of yellow, orange and pink line tiered streets as you wind your way along the ancient cobbled streets to the town’s top point and where the views of the Swiss Alps in particular are simply stunning. Punta Spartivento, near the impressive Basilica of San Giacomo, is undoubtedly the most picture-perfect spot.
Varenna’s lakefront area, Riva Grande is perfect for dining. Afterwards take a stroll along the romantic promenade known as the Passeggiata degli Innamorati. Stroll languidly down the town’s narrow streets and you’ll encounter the breath-taking 13th-century Church of San Giorgio in all its Gothic and Romanesque glory.
Sitting on Lake Como’s western flank, Menaggio is less touristy than Varenna and Bellagio yet it still offers those magnificent lakeside views. Via Calvi is perfect for some upmarket boutique shopping, while you’ll find plenty of charming artisan offerings along the waterfront and in the Piazza Garibaldi.
Il Sereno. With its contemporary interiors of glass, wood and stone, Il Sereno is a far cry from the typical traditional five-star hotel in Como. Boasting a Michelin-star restaurant, wine tasting, cooking classes and a picnic-on-the-lake adventure, it’s pretty much a must for those looking for an unforgettable luxury stay.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo. This beautiful, elegant hotel with stunning views across to Bellagio, was a favourite of actress Greta Garbo. With its own botanic garden, tennis courts, three swimming pools and luxury wellness centre, it offers plenty of options if you fancy a break from sightseeing.
Villa Cipressi. Located in Varenna, this beautiful 17th century villa offers guests the opportunity to stroll through its colourful terraced garden down to the lake with its stone steps and cast-iron gate (the hotel’s private boat jetty).
The best time to visit Lake Como if you plan on sightseeing is in May or at the beginning of autumn. That’s because there’s fewer crowds and the weather will be more manageable. Average day time temperatures are between 8 and 18°C in May, and there’s usually less rain. This is when many of the flowers are at their best too.
Beachlovers will prefer planning their trip from June to August, when they’re pretty much guaranteed hot, sunny days and warm evenings.
Get a flight into Milan or Lombardy from the UK. You can then travel by train or rental car from Milan to Como or Varenna. The ferries can take you to your lakeside vista of choice. It’s also possible to travel by train from London to Milan, via Eurostar and Italo, the fastest time being ten hours, three minutes.
Getting around Lake Como itself is best by boat, whether that’s via the public ferry, hiring a self-drive boat, or renting a private charter complete with captain.
Our platform is the go-to source for anyone looking to enjoy an authentic experience in one of Italy’s most enchanting destinations.
We offer exclusive tours through historic villas, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque villages designed to make you fall in love with the area.
Each itinerary is carefully curated to deliver unforgettable moments.
Our printed and digital magazine shares stories, traditions, and curiosities from Lake Como, featuring interviews, events, and travel tips.
Whether you're a curious traveler or a relaxation lover, you'll find inspiration and valuable advice.
Lake Como Tourism is your ideal guide to uncover hidden gems and enjoy unique experiences.
Browse our website to plan your perfect getaway and get ready to be amazed.
Explore, dream, and experience Lake Como like never before...
Tucked away in the heart of Lichfield City Centre, The Quill & Scholar offers more than an on trend setting - it delivers a truly delightful dining experience that lingers long after the final course.
Rustica olives
Soy-glazed mackerel
Beetroot terrine
7oz fillet with peppercorn sauce
Monkfish and king prawn skewer
Coconut sticky rice
Sticky toffee pudding
Amaretto coffee
Tucked away in the heart of Lichfield City Centre, The Quill & Scholar offers more than an on trend setting - it delivers a truly delightful dining experience that lingers long after the final course.
Our evening began with a shared bowl of Rustica olives, the perfect way to ease into the meal with their rich, herb infused flavour and satisfying bite. Simple, elegant, and wonderfully moreish.
To start, we enjoyed the soy-glazed mackerel, served with a refreshing fennel and roquette salad. The toasted fennel seeds added a subtle crunch, balanced beautifully by a light lemon vinaigrette. The beetroot terrine was equally impressive - a colourful and creative plate complemented by a punchy horseradish sorbet and a delicate beetroot balsamic dressing. A lovely balance of earthy and bright flavours.
For mains, we selected the 7oz fillet with peppercorn sauce, which arrived cooked to perfection - tender, flavourful, and accompanied by triple-cooked chunky chips, a fresh mixed leaf salad, and a roasted garlic tomato. Every component on the plate was thoughtfully executed and delicious along with the Monkfish and king prawn skewer, a standout dish of the evening - grilled perfectly and paired with a vibrant papaya salad and a citrus dipping sauce that brought freshness and zing to every bite.
We paired our meal with a crisp glass of house white wine and a delicate rosé, both of which complemented the dishes wonderfully.
Desserts were equally delightful. The coconut sticky rice was a tropical dream - paired with a mango and passion fruit salad, mango sorbet, and a crisp coconut tuile. The sticky toffee pudding was indulgent comfort food at its finest, served warm with a rich butterscotch sauce and a dollop of Normandy crème fraîche to cut through the sweetness beautifully.
To end the meal, we lingered over a decaf coffee and a wonderfully smooth amaretto coffee, the perfect finish to a flawless evening.
The service throughout was exceptional - attentive, thoughtful, and never rushed - allowing us to fully relax and savour each course. A special mention must go to Veru, the Deputy General Manager, whose in-depth knowledge of both the food and drink menus, combined with her warm and engaging personality, truly elevated the experience. The ambience was stylish yet welcoming, creating the perfect setting for a leisurely and enjoyable evening.
If you're in Lichfield and looking for somewhere special, The Quill and Scholar is an absolute gem. We left feeling delighted, completely satisfied, and already planning our return - there are so many tempting dishes on the menu we can’t wait to try next time.
Note from editor: As a new regular contributor to Swealthy Magazine, we’re proud to name Southcote Financial our trusted financial advice business - a collaboration with a shared mission to empower clients, protect legacies, and deliver transparent, jargon-free financial advice.
Every issue will detail topical financial areas our readers have to increase financial knowledge and empower our devoted readership to making informed and successful financial decisions.
Southcote Financial: Your Trusted Partner in Financial Wellness
At Southcote Financial Ltd, planning your financial future isn’t just a job - it’s a responsibility we carry close to heart. Guided by Managing Director Will Kiely, the team crafts tailored plans that protect your wealth, help secure your lifestyle, and honour your legacy. Whether it’s saving, pension-ready strategies, or structuring your estate, Southcote combines deep technical expertise with a warm, approachable service ethos.
One of the major concerns of many families is Inheritance Tax (IHT) - a 40% death tax on estates above certain allowances. This article is designed to dis-spell some myths and provide some factual knowledge around an ever-changing tax landscape.
Structuring assets and gifts in a tax-efficient way is imperative, so you keep more of your wealth for loved ones. We list the top seven areas of understanding
Every individual in England has a tax-free IHT allowance of £325,000. Estates above this threshold face a 40% tax on the balance. Couples can double the benefit by transferring unused allowance, meaning up to £650,000 can pass tax-free between spouses.
Leaving your main home to direct descendants (children, grandchildren), and each person can claim an additional £175,000, increasing the tax-free band to £500,000 or £1 million for couples. Be aware though: estates over £2 million see a tapered reduction in this allowance.
Well-structured gifting downsizes your taxable estate. Key allowances include:
Annual Exemption: Up to £3,000 per year (carried forward by one year if unused).
Small Gifts: Unlimited gifts up to £250 per person, per year.
Wedding Gifts: £5,000 for a child’s wedding; £2,500 for a grandchild; £1,000 for others.
Normal Expenditure Rule: Regular gifts from surplus income (e.g., school fees, gifts) are exempt, if your living standard isn’t impacted.
Spousal Exemption: Transfers between UK-domiciled spouses/civil partners are unlimited and fully exempt.
Larger gifts beyond the above allowances become Potentially Exempt Transfers. If the giver survives seven years, they’re tax-free. But if death occurs earlier, taper relief applies:
Years before death IHT rate on gift
0–3 years
40%
3–4 years
32%
4–5 years
24%
5–6 years
16%
6–7 years
8%
7+ years
0%
Gifting 10% of your net estate to charity not only avoids tax on that portion it also reduces the IHT rate from 40% to 36% on the remainder.
You can set up trusts to manage and pass on assets more tax-efficiently. You can seek advice on using Business Property Relief, which can offer up to 100% relief on qualifying assets. However, be aware upcoming reforms cap these at £1 million of relief from April 2026.
Setting up life insurance policies in trust to ensure enough cash is available to pay IHT, without the proceeds themselves being taxed as part of your estate.
With assets increasing and tax free thresholds frozen until at least 2028 or beyond, strategic IHT planning is no longer a luxury, it’s essential. Consider the following:
Use annual and small gift exemptions diligently.
Plan PETs early, allowing time for taper relief or exemption.
Coordinate spousal transfers to maximise combined allowances.
Consider charitable giving for financial and social returns.
Use trusts and reliefs to shelter significant assets.
Secure insurance in trust for IHT liquidity.
Review and adjust with your adviser as rules, values, and families evolve.
In the evolving landscape of wealth and inheritance, clarity and foresight matter. Southcote Financial’s compassionate, expert-led approach ensures that inheritance tax isn’t just a problem to solve - it’s a legacy to protect. At Swealthy, we’re proud to feature Southcote as our trusted advice partner: clear, consistent, and committed to keeping your family’s future secure.
For a no-pressure introductory conversation about protecting your estate and legacy, visit southcotefinancial.co.uk or call 0121 661 7014.
Business Property Relief Schemes (BR) invest in assets that are high risk and can be difficult to sell such as shares in unlisted companies. The value of the investment and the income from it can fall as well as rise and investors may not get back what they originally invested, even taking into account the tax benefits. Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.
This article is for financial education, not financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, we recommend you seek professional financial advice.
Perhaps no possession embodies lasting allure quite like a classic car.
In the world of luxury, true value often lies in the timeless - a fine watch, a vintage wine, a well-kept estate. But perhaps no possession embodies lasting allure quite like a classic car. These machines are not just built, but sculpted; designed not just to move, but to move you. Decades after their debut, classic automobiles continue to captivate collectors, connoisseurs, and those with an appreciation for engineering elevated to art.
Here, we present ten of the finest classic cars ever created: machines that have defined eras, broken records, and earned their place in the pantheon of automotive greatness.
1955
A car so rare that it exists in legend more than in garages. Only two were built, and one sold in 2022 for €135 million; making it the most expensive car ever sold. Derived from the dominant W196 Formula 1 car, the 300 SLR is a fusion of racing ferocity and aesthetic restraint. Its long bonnet, gullwing doors, and raw mechanical performance represent the pinnacle of post-war German engineering. The SLR defines what it means to be priceless.
1962–1964
If any car can match the 300 SLR in mystique, it’s the Ferrari 250 GTO. Built for GT racing, but styled with grace, the GTO is considered by many to be the most beautiful Ferrari ever made. Just 36 were produced, each with its own subtle differences. Beneath the svelte Pininfarina-designed body lies a 3.0-litre V12 that sings at every rev. Values have comfortably exceeded $70 million at private sales - the ultimate status symbol, and for many, the ultimate car.
1956–1959
The car that delivered Aston Martin its first and only outright win at Le Mans in 1959. The DBR1 isn’t just beautiful, it’s victorious. Driven by legends like Stirling Moss and Carroll Shelby, it stands among the rarest and most celebrated competition cars of the 20th century, with only five ever built. Its flowing curves evoke a sculpture in motion, and its performance helped define Aston Martin’s golden era. The DBR1 is British motorsport royalty - graceful, historic, and undeniably iconic.
1966–1968
A grand tourer of extraordinary poise and presence, the 275 GTB/4 represents the perfect marriage of design and dynamics. Sleek, muscular, and V12-powered, it marked Ferrari’s transition from the 250 series to the modern GT era. The four-cam engine added depth to the performance, while Scaglietti’s bodywork captured Italian craftsmanship at its peak. Prices now range from £2.5 to £4 million - for many, a relative bargain compared to its rarer siblings.
1904–1906
Where it all began. The 10 HP was the first model jointly developed by Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, a motor car of elegance and engineering precision. Only 16 were built, of which just a few survive today. One example sold at auction for over £3 million. It may not be described as fast or flashy, but its significance is immeasurable. For serious collectors, the 10 HP is not just a car but the genesis of a legend.
1961–1967
No list of classic cars would be complete without the Jaguar E-Type. Revealed at Geneva in 1961, it stunned the automotive world. With a top speed over 150 mph and styling to rival Italian exotica, it was both a technical marvel and a cultural phenomenon. Available in coupé and convertible form, it remains one of the few icons you can still buy today - with pristine examples ranging from £100,000 to £250,000. An icon that endures, not just in memory, but on the open road.
1954–1958
Favoured by the likes of James Dean and Steve McQueen, the 356 Speedster is pure, purposeful driving. Lightweight, minimalist, and imbued with Porsche’s early racing DNA, it’s as rewarding to look at as it is to drive. The low windshield, bucket seats, and stripped-out interior give it a raw charm. Collectors prize the original Pre-A and Carrera versions, often fetching over $500,000 at auction.
1971–1973
Sensual, audacious, and utterly revolutionary - the Miura redefined the sports car as we know it. With its mid-mounted V12 and impossibly low stance, it shocked the establishment in 1966 and matured into the sublime SV by 1971. The SV variant delivered 385 hp and sculpted rear haunches that bordered on erotic. Values have soared in recent years, with mint examples crossing the $3 million mark. Still, there is no price too high for automotive perfection.
Unveiled at the Carrozzeria Bertone stand at the 1968 Brussels Motor Show, the Miura Roadster (pictured) remained a one-off and is considered one of the most beautiful show cars ever produced. The color combination itself was designed to dazzle: Lamè Sky Blu for the paintwork, with white leather interior and red carpeting.
The Miura Roadster has no side windows or roof closure system, which allowed the Bertone stylists to maintain a unique purity of line. Many aesthetic changes were made compared to the Miura sedan, with the rear part completely redesigned to leave the engine fully exposed, and the secondary control switches in the cabin interior, usually mounted on the ceiling, moved to a different position.
1954–1957
Part spacecraft, part sculpture, the 300SL Gullwing was the world’s fastest production car when it launched. With its distinctive upward-opening doors and advanced fuel injection, it was a technological tour de force. Even today, few cars attract as much admiration. Values remain strong, typically between $1.5 and $2.5 million - and every penny is justified by its engineering brilliance and undeniable glamour.
1986–1991
Proof that modern classics now command just as much reverence as vintage grand tourers. The E30 M3 was BMW’s special - a DTM-bred saloon with sharp handling, boxy aggression, and a howling 2.3-litre four-cylinder. This is the definitive driver’s car of the 1980s. Once obtainable for £10,000, exceptional examples now command six figures. It’s not just nostalgia, it’s a legend reborn.
These ten cars are more than mechanical marvels, they are stories on wheels, investments in artistry, and testaments to human ambition. Whether admiring the uncompromising purity of a Ferrari 250 GTO or the heritage embodied by a Rolls-Royce 10 HP, each invites reflection. Some remain parked in private collections, others occasionally appear at prestigious auction houses, but all represent a standard of design and craftsmanship that modern machines, for all their speed, rarely match.
Harvey Nichols
Luca Gritti: the visionary behind Gritti Venetia Fragrances, has redefined niche perfumery by blending his family’s rich Venetian heritage with a fresh, modern creative vision. Descended from a renowned 16th-century dynasty of spice merchants and diplomats, Gritti draws from centuries of exploration and artistry to craft bold, unforgettable fragrances. Since launching the brand in 2009, he’s pushed boundaries with meticulous craftsmanship and luxurious details, making Gritti Venetia a standout name in the fragrance world.
Gritti
Mango Aoud Extrait de Parfum 100ml
£230.00 | Exclusive
Gritti
Gritti Pomelo Assoluto Extrait de Parfum 100ml
£230.00 | Exclusive
Gritti
Neroli Extreme Eau de Parfum 100ml
£175.00 | Exclusive
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There's nothing quite like being at sea, and no experience that rivals stepping aboard a super-yacht tailored entirely to your tastes.
No itinerary is fixed, no detail overlooked, and the only limit is the horizon. Elite charter yachts represent the pinnacle of bespoke travel: part private resort, part personal sanctuary, and part seaborne adventure. For the discerning traveller, they offer a rare combination: total privacy with uncompromising luxury, wrapped in a setting that changes by the day.
From the Côte d’Azur to the Maldives, these floating palaces glide across the globe’s most exclusive waters, offering a lifestyle reserved for the world’s few. Here are some of the most coveted charter yachts redefining luxury on the water.
Few yachts match the sculptural beauty of LANA. At 107 metres, this Lürssen-built superyacht combines powerful engineering with refined design. With exterior lines by Espen Øino International, LANA’s sleek silhouette is balanced and commanding, gliding through the water with grace and precision.
Launched in 2020, she features a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, reaching top speeds of 18.5 knots. Her expansive 3,600 GT volume provides ample space for luxurious accommodations and wellness amenities. Interior design by Benetti’s in-house team focuses on rich textures (glossy rosewood, ivory-toned furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows) that bring in sweeping sea views.
Wellness is central to the LANA experience. Guests enjoy a spa with a massage suite, steam room, hammam, and fully equipped gym. Outdoor areas include a sundeck, Jacuzzi and a beach club with direct access to the sea. The water sports garage holds jet skis, SeaBobs, diving gear, and inflatables, allowing guests to explore in style.
Service is nearly unrivalled, with a crew of 34 catering for up to 12 guests in eight lavish staterooms. Whether organizing gourmet dinners, curated excursions, or wellness treatments, LANA’s staff delivers the definition of Mediterranean glamour with precision, privacy, and polish.
Commissioned by an NFL team owner and delivered by Feadship in 2019, the 93-metre LADY S is a floating playground built for fun and flair. Her sleek profile was crafted by Michael Leach Design, while the interiors, a blend of crisp whites, metallics, and modern minimalism, were designed by Reymond Langton.
Her standout feature? A fully certified IMAX cinema - the first ever aboard a yacht. It delivers a true theatrical experience with 4K visuals, surround sound, and tiered seating. Other entertainment features include a golf tee, a basketball court (which doubles as a helipad), and a chic beach club with a plunge pool and lounge area.
LADY S is built for both adventure and relaxation, offering family-friendly layouts alongside sophisticated social areas. She sleeps up to 12 guests in seven suites, with a professional crew of 31. Each voyage aboard LADY S feels dynamic and bespoke, combining the energy of a sports enthusiast’s dream with the elegance of a world-class retreat.
At 190 metres, Evrima is the flagship of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and redefines luxury cruising with the intimacy of a private yacht. Launched in 2022, she accommodates just 298 guests in 149 ocean-view suites - each with a private terrace and interiors inspired by European design principles.
The focus on experience is evident in every detail. Guests can dine in five refined venues, from S.E.A., helmed by a Michelin-starred chef, to Talaat Nam, an Asian fusion restaurant. Local ingredients and regional flavours are central to Evrima’s globally inspired menus.
Wellness is equally prioritised. The Evrima Spa features treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, and a modern fitness studio. Outdoors, guests can unwind on the expansive pool deck or enjoy the private marina for paddleboarding, kayaking, or snorkelling.
Evrima sails to handpicked ports in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Central America. Every itinerary is curated to deliver cultural immersion, comfort, and signature Ritz-Carlton service, blending the best of luxury travel and yachting in one sleek vessel.
Built by Bilgin Yachts and delivered in 2021, the 80-metre TATIANA showcases how sustainability and luxury can co-exist. The first of the Bilgin 263 series, she was designed by Unique Yacht Design with interiors by H2 Yacht Design. Her sleek profile and streamlined hull reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
TATIANA runs on MTU engines and incorporates advanced wastewater treatment and emissions control systems, resulting in significantly lower environmental impact compared to similar-sized yachts.
The interior is modern and warm, with earth tones, ambient lighting, and natural materials creating a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere. Her wellness offerings include massage rooms, a sauna, and a beauty salon. Guests can enjoy an onboard cinema, an infinity pool, and an expansive beach club with fold-out terraces and ocean access.
TATIANA hosts up to 12 guests in eight cabins, attended by a crew of 20. She cruises comfortably at 12 knots, offering a serene and eco-conscious experience without compromising luxury.
From the sculpted precision of LANA to the innovative spirit of LADY S, the elegant curation of EVRIMA, and the sustainable ethos of TATIANA, these yachts represent the evolving face of modern yachting. Each vessel delivers more than just transport — they offer immersive experiences defined by craftsmanship, service, and lifestyle.
Whether designed for sporting fun, spa-level relaxation, sustainable innovation, or hotel-grade service, these floating palaces redefine exactly what it means to sail in style.
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Serves 6
For the Fishcake
200g Salmon
200g Mackerel
200g Hake (or any white fish)
2 x egg yolks
3 x fresh red chillies
1 x teaspoon Thai Puree
small bunch fresh coriander
2 x Thai spring onions (sliced)
1 x nob fresh ginger grated
Chop all of the fish, chillies and coriander small and add to a mixing bowl, add sliced Thai spring onion and grated ginger to the bowl with the Thai puree and egg yolks. Mix all of the ingredients together, shape into patties and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Pan fry the patties for 3 minutes on each side and place in the pre-heated oven at 180C for a further 3 minutes to ensure cooked through.
beansprouts
carrot
Chinese cabbage
mange tout
ponzu dressing
crispy rice noodles
Shred carrot, Chinese cabbage and mange tout, place in a bowl with the beansprouts and coat with the ponzu dressing. Place a handful of salad on each plate, add the fishcake and finish with crispy rice noodles.
BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW • BOOK NOW
1lb Whole Native Lobster
Back by (very) popular demand!
Served with garlic butter and fresh summer salad
Available Tuesday - Saturday from 11 July - 30 August
Book now via website quoting LOBSTER
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