Country Living - June 2016.pdf

PURE INDULGENCE

SUMMER PUDDINGS & REFRESHING

FRUIT CORDIAL

SWEET SCENTSof SUMMER

Decorate with floral patternsEnjoy a house in bloom

Visit a fragrant garden

Natural beauty

ORGANIC SKINCARE DISTILLED

FROM PETALS

DARCEY BUSSELLON HER SIGNATURE

FLOWER

OLD-FASHIONED ROSES HOW TO GROW THEM

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DECORATING CRAFTS HOUSES GARDENS FOOD TRAVEL HEALTH

JUNE 2016 £4.20

countryliving.co.uk JUNE 2016 03

112 PERENNIAL ATTRACTIONS A British couple have created a glorious garden and thriving nursery in the Loire Valley

118 GOING WITH THE FLOW A stylish selection of salvaged materials and upcycled furnishings has been used by ceramicist Mouse Martin to transform an 18th-century cart lodge into a unique retreat in the Cotswolds

126 THE PASSIONATE GARDENERS In our series profiling those whose lives are shaped by their love of plants, we meet the renowned rose breeder and expert David Austin and his collaborator Carl Bennett

Features37 COUNTRY LOVING Rustic life isn’t always

idyllic, especially when it comes to dating, as our columnist Imogen Green discovers

41 LET YOUR TALENT SHINE Celebrating home-grown skills, we meet people making the most of their hobby, plus discover ways to follow in their steps. This month: the jeweller

Houses & gardens9 EMPORIUM New ideas to add a touch

of country style to your home14 ROMANCE OF THE ROSE The heady

fragrance of this quintessentially British flower evokes the pleasures of a glorious garden in full bloom. Be inspired by its vivid colours and elegant form to bring nostalgic charm inside and out

48 15 WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR BATHROOM Create a stylish and serene sanctuary with our easy and effective ideas for adding decorative details and practical purpose

79 GARDEN NOTES Everything you need to know to get the most from your plot

82 CRAFT IDEAS TO INSPIRE Continuing her series, Elizabeth Harbour shows how to create a collection of striking handmade decorative pieces, each one with its own original charm

104 COLOUR & CHARM An instinctive use of space and an eye-catching mix of characterful furnishings and appealing accessories has turned a cramped Georgian cottage in rural Berkshire into a welcoming family home

ON THE COVERSweet scents of

summer pages 14, 104 and 112 Natural

beauty page 96 Darcey Bussell on her signature flower page 186 Pure indulgence

pages 134 and 59 Old-fashioned roses

and how to grow them page 126

June 2016 issue 366

Contents 126

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countryliving.co.uk04 JUNE 2016

Contents

Health & beauty157 HEALTH NOTES Our monthly round-up 159 SNEEZING SEASON Don’t let allergies ruin

your summer in the countryside – try these natural remedies to help nip them in the bud

News & views27 A MONTH IN THE COUNTRY What to do,

where to go and simple pleasures to enjoy in June38 JOIN US FOR A ROLL IN THE HAY!

Unlock the secrets of online dating at the Hay Literary Festival with our event, Finding Love in the Countryside

165 WHERE TO BUY Stockist details166 NEXT MONTH in Country Living186 MY COUNTRYSIDE Darcey Bussell

Reader offers25 CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS FOR OUR NEW

SOFA The Lavenham design with DFS 94 SUBSCRIBE TO COUNTRY LIVING

59 THE ESSENCE OF SUMMER From indulgent desserts to fruity drinks, these three women create classic products that the season wouldn’t be complete without

72 EXPLORE THE ROSELAND PENINSULA With secluded coves and creeks, pretty fishing villages and scenic headlands, this unspoilt part of south Cornwall is a magnet for walkers and those in search of a slower pace of life

96 IN FULL BLOOM Amanda Saurin harnesses the power of the flowers and plants grown in her East Sussex distilling garden to make her carefully crafted beauty balms

Food & drink134 THE PROOF OF THE PUDDING Celebrate

the best of the season’s flavours by using fresh fruit and flowers in these delectable desserts

144 GILL MELLER’S TASTES OF THE SEASONS The West Country chef meets his favourite local food producers, then puts together delicious recipes with the ingredients they grow and provide. This month: wild herbs and flowers

TO RENEW OR TAKE OUT A SUBSCRIPTION See page 94 for details

COVER CREDITSPhotograph by Brent Darby.

Styling Sian Williams.For merchandise details, see page 16 and 17. For stockists,

see Where To Buy

14

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134June 2016 issue 366

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Hearst Magazines UK, 72 Broadwick Street, London W1F 9EP. Editorial: 020 7439 5157; countryliving.co.uk. Advertising: 020 7439 5134

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFSusy Smith

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ART Art Editor (Lifestyle) Roger BrowningPicture Editor Patricia Taylor

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FEATURES Acting Features Editor Anna JuryFOOD & DRINK Food & Drink Editor Alison Walker

HOMES & GARDENS Home Design Editor Ben KendrickDeputy Home Design Editor Alaina BinksContributing Garden Editor Stephanie Donaldson

HEALTH & BEAUTY Contributing Health & Beauty Editor Kate LangrishPRODUCTION & FINANCE Managing Editor Rebecca Stening

Production Manager Jeff PettittSenior Advertisement Production Controller Paul Taylor

MANAGING DIRECTOR, BRANDS GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTORMichael Rowley Sharon Douglas

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SHOWS & EVENTS Manager Lauren Hubbard Sales Executive Samantha ToroAssistant Aoife Keogh Sales Assistant Louise Duckett

GROUP BUSINESS Head of Marketing Operations Jennifer SmithGroup Commercial Director Ella DolphinNew Business Development Manager Jessica RothenbergDigital Marketing Manager Andrew PotterHead of Subscriptions (Lifestyle) Karen SharpCustomer Marketing Manager Georgina PearsonHead of Digital Marketing Seema KumariSubscriptions Marketing Executive Kathryn GreenSenior Marketing Designer Sabu ArjunanLicensing Coordinator Josie Lahey-JamesHR Director Surinder SimmonsDigital Sales Director Stephen EdwardsChief Digital Officer Darren Goldsby

HEARST MAGAZINES UK Director of Communications Lisa QuinnPublisher and International Licensing Director Adam CooperCirculation & Marketing Director Reid HollandHead of Consumer Sales & Marketing James HillChief Financial Officer Claire Blunt

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Hearst Magazines UK is a trading name of The National Magazine Company Limited (Registered in England number 112955) and Hearst Magazines UK 2012-1 Ltd (Registered in England number 4474102) whose registered offices are at 72 Broadwick Street, London W1F 9EP. Distributed by Condé Nast and National Magazine Distributors Ltd

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or at a local recycling point. Log on to recyclenow.com and enter your postcode to find your nearest sites.

The romance of the rose…is a most apt theme for this issue of Country Living, as the quintessentially British bloom appears in abundance. In our decorating story (page 14), the

glorious flower features on fabrics, clothing, china and stationery, providing inspiring looks for indoors and out. Then we meet innovative makers and

growers: Amanda Saurin, who distills essential oils from crushed petals for her natural beauty range (page 96) and the incomparable David Austin (page 126), responsible for creating some of our most beautiful garden roses, including the

one named after Darcey Bussell, the subject of My Countryside (page 186). We even explore the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall (page 72)! And while we’re on the subject of romance, don’t miss our forthcoming event, Finding Love in The Countryside, at the Hay Literary Festival on 2 June – for more details, see page 38.

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FOLLOWED BY YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS.TEXTS TO THIS NUMBER ARE CHARGED AT YOUR STANDARD NETWORK RATE*

COUNTRY LIVING AND YEO VALLEY – THE PERFECT

MATCHMAKING PARTNERSHIP FOR COUNTRY-LOVERS.

VISIT COUNTRY-LOVING.CO.UK FOR DETAILS.

Mix mid-century-style furniture with gentle hues inspired by summer meadows and

garden roses for a calm and tranquil home

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£24

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Use these hand-carved floral stamps (wide range available) mounted on kiln-dried beech to decorate homemade cards

and wrapping, from £8, Little Stamp Store at Etsy

Stylishly simple, this spindle-back bench is crafted from raw beech and is left unfinished ready for you to paint if you wish, £325, Laura Ashley

Pruners covered in a print adapted from the Bower wallpaper b

y

William Morris*, £15.95, V&A Collection by Wild & Wolf

Pretty meadow-patterned enamel mug, £8,

Laura Ashley

Walnut bird handmade by Jacob Pugh in his workshop

in York, £30, available to buy in a selection of colours through his brother

Matt Pugh

Hand-poured rose-scented soy candle in a reusable jar, £18/260g, Hopscotch

JUNE 2016 09countryliving.co.uk

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Hand-sewn cushion made to order in Scotland and printed onto silk, £50,

Little Axe

This hand-finished log side table is well-suited to a rustic home, £325 (tabletop 43cm diameter), John Lewis

Create a warm glow on a summer’s

evening with this blue miner’s lantern, £10, Garden Trading

Emma Ginnever makes elegant sterling-silver

jewellery inspired by nature – Swallow

cuff, £305

Thornback & Peel’s latest design, Mums & Roses, is a classic floral print featuring chrysanthemums and delicate dog roses used on a range of kitchen linens including this apron, £24

Earthenware coaster with seedheads by Yorkshire-based

illustrator Kate Thorburn, £6, What Kate Loves

This pitcher is from Dee Hardwicke’s latest ceramic collection, Pimpernel, inspired by the flora and fauna

she sees on local country walks (H18cm), £20

E M P O RI U M

10 JUNE 2016 countryliving.co.uk

For stockist details, see Where to Buy

Classic folding bistro set in weather-resistant powder-coated pale-green steel, £74.99/chair; £90/table, English Heritage Shop

Utilitarian shipyard wall light in galvanised silver (also

available in copper) that will look good

by the front door or in a kitchen, £390, Davey Lighting

Brighten your summ

er table with this screen-printed

linen runner, £79, Sam Pickard

This portable Roberts radio mixes retro styling with a delicate Liberty print (available in three designs), £225, Liberty

A5 notebook with plain pages, featuring illustrations of garden birds on the cover,

£5.50, Kate Broughton

Set of two tea towels with hand-printed leaf designs on linen (one natural, one white),

£24, Kiran Ravilious

E M P O RI U M

A unique Summer Meadow mixed-media piece of artwork (75cm x 120cm) created by artist Jane Powell using acrylic, thread, yarn and wire, £1,200


On a warm summer’s afternoon, the heady fragrance of this quintessentially British flower evokes the pleasures of a glorious garden in full bloom. Be inspired by its vivid colours and elegant

form to bring nostalgic charm to settings inside and out STYLING AND WORDS BY SIAN WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHS BY BRENT DARBY

Romance

roseof the


CREATE A COUNTRY FEEL with a mix of faded rose motifs, quirky vintage items and striped fabrics. Enhance the effect with toning pink accessories. Potted roses, £21.50 each, David Austin. Vintage chair, £45, ebay. Paris Rose linen, £48/m, Cabbages & Roses. Pink vintage remnant, £10, Jessie Chorley. Cushion in Melia Cherry Blossom linen, £75/m, Romo. Candles, £8.50 (box), Cox & Cox. Teacup and tea plates, David Austin. Pink cup, £6, Anthropologie. Watering can, similar from Hen & Hammock

OPPOSITE Rustic wooden outdoor

dining set, similar from Cox & Cox. For all other details, see

following pages

S E A S O N A L I N S P I R AT I O N

Store all your floral fabrics and ribbon together,

ready for craft and sewing

projects

OPPOSITE Make your own ribbon or bias binding from small fabric squares sold as fat quarter bundles in craft shops. Cut into thin strips, sew lengths together and leave the edges to fray or press for a neater look.Wooden letter rack, £65, Cox & Cox Top shelf, from left Bracelet, £4, Etsy. Rag hair grips, £6.50, Jessie Chorley. Flower month card, £3.50, Buddug. Ribbons made from Visage Textiles fat quarters (assorted packs of six), £7 each, Hobbycraft. Bottom shelf, from left Preserving jars, from £4.49 (set), Lakeland. Cotton fat quarters, from £5 each; cottons (in jar), £1.60 each: all Hobbycraft. MT pink tape, £12 (two), Bodie & Fou. Linen ribbons (on spools), £2.75/3m, Pipii. Scissors, £6, John Lewis. Vintage remnants, £10 each, Jessie Chorley. Pincushion, £14, Elm Tree Studios at Not on the High Street. Bucket, £10.50, Cox & Cox. Vintage jug, £10, Buddug. Hatley floral and Little Stripe box files, £21 each, Cabbages & Roses. Roses, £21.50 each (in pots), David Austin

THIS PAGE, ABOVE LEFT Revive a pair of plimsolls with rag ribbon laces. Cut thin strips of rose-print cotton, wash to prevent fraying and iron flat.Converse plimsolls, £44.99, Office. Laces made from Visage Textiles fat quarters, as before. Watering can, similar from Hen & Hammock ABOVE RIGHT Create eye-catching cushions by mixing and matching floral patterns with toning stripes.From left Cushion in Paris Rose linen, £48/m, Cabbages & Roses; Tickety Boo postbox stripe cotton, £24/m, Harlequin. Shirt, similar from Jessie Chorley. Cushion in Brinley cilantro stripe cotton, £49.50/m, Romo; Chelsea coral/emerald cotton, £56/m, Sanderson. Striped cushion in Melia cherry blossom linen, £75/m, Romo RIGHT Refresh old boxes with floral fabrics to create decorative storage. Rose paper, £8 (12 sheets), Jessie Chorley. Quote box, £4.50, Buddug. Notebook, £3, Talking Tables. Bowl, £10; teak pot, £30: both Anthropologie. Tub of pencils, £7.95, Muji


countryliving.co.uk



ABOVE LEFT String up a hammock between two sturdy trees for the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon in the garden. Add a pretty floral cotton quilt and an inviting array of cushions in a mix of cheery rosy, striped and toile prints to add to the romantic mood.Folding garden chair, similar £115 (set of two chairs and a table), Garden Trading. Sun hat, from a selection, John Lewis. Elderflower and Rose cordial (on chair), £2.80, Belvoir Fruit Farms. Vintage French bowls, £40 each, Swoon Lounge. Ball quilted crystal jam jars (used as glasses), £8.99 (set of six), Lakeland. King-sized hammock with spreader bars and rope, £139, The Hammock Store. Quilt and cushions, stool and journal (on stool), as in picture on right. Pink Converse plimsolls, £44.99, Office. Pink rose, £21.50 (sold in pot), David Austin. Vintage

terracotta plant pot, from a selection, Petersham NurseriesABOVE RIGHT A few fresh roses look beautiful when arranged informally in a vintage floral jug. Vintage rose jug, £10, Jessie Chorley. Roses, £21.50 each (sold in pots), David Austin RIGHT Cushions (from left) in Etienne cotton, £42/m, Harlequin; Paris Rose linen, £48/m, Cabbages & Roses, backed with Tickety Boo postbox stripe cotton, £24/m, Harlequin; Giselle Bordeaux olive-linen mix (far right), £55/m, Sanderson; striped cushion (in foreground) in Melia cherry blossom linen, £75/m, Romo. Book, from a selection, Much Ado Books. Cotton rose-print quilt, similar from Greengate at Fine Nordic. Vintage wicker stool, from a selection, ebay. Green journal, £22, Anthropologie



STYLISH SETTINGS FOR YOUR table can be created with a nostalgic mix of floral-print fabrics and vintage accessories.Tablecloth in Paris Rose linen, £48/m, Cabbages & Roses. Cushion cover in Chelsea linen mix, £56/m, Sanderson, and Brinley cilantro stripe cotton, £49.50/m, Romo. Journal, £22, Anthropologie. Card, £3.50, Jessie Chorley. Vintage tin, £25, Swoon Lounge. Jars (as glasses), £8.99 (set of six), Lakeland

ECHO THE VIBRANT HUES of fresh roses with bold pairings of fabrics and accessories for an uplifting scheme ideal for a sunny conservatory.Mexican chairs, similar from a selection, ebay. Seat cushions in Elodie cerise cotton-mix, £58/m, Harlequin, and Bilbao rosehip cotton, £18.50/m, Villa Nova. Back cushions in Paris Rose linen, £48/m, Cabbages & Roses, and Tickety Boo postbox stripe cotton, £24/m, Harlequin. Journal (on left chair), £22; red cup, £6: both Anthropologie. Stool, similar from ebay. Box of chocolates, £15.95, Bettys. Twine, £6/100m, Fred Aldous. Vintage coffee pot, £60; tin (on right chair), £25: both Swoon Lounge On windowsill English Rose jug (on left), £20; roses, £21.50 each (sold in pots): all David Austin. All other mugs, jugs and teacups, from a selection, Anthropologie

For stockists, see Where to Buy

CLASSIC GOOD LOOKS FOR OUR NEW SOFA

The Country Living Lavenham range from DFS has been designed to add sophistication and style to any home

MADE BY DFS FOR COUNTRY LIVING, the Lavenham sofa is a classically elegant design. Built as one piece with a refined fixed back, it has beautifully scrolled arms, a fully coil-sprung seat quilted in foam and fibre, and graceful wooden and brass feet, making a stylish and comfortable addition to any interior.

In 100 per cent cotton, it comes in a choice of 13 colours – duck egg (shown here), navy, blue, wheat, cream, mink, mole, slate, taupe, lavender, sand, green and khaki. The distinctive Lavenham design is available in two standard sofa sizes – medium and large – as well as a deep armchair and an accent chair. There

are also two different footstools, including one that incorporates useful storage, enabling you to find just the right pieces to suit the size and style of your space. With the exception of the central floral design, all cushions shown are included. Additional scatter cushions in all 13 colours are optional extras.

Designed and made in the UK, the sofa frame is constructed using high-quality, tried-and-tested materials that are glued and screwed or stapled for ultimate strength and durability.

For more information about the Country Living furniture range at DFS, visit dfs.co.uk/countryliving.


C L C O L L E C T I O N

JUNE 2016 27

As the days get warmer, it’s the time of year for goslings to hatch. The West of England goose is an ancient breed that used to be common on farms throughout the UK, particularly in the West Country. Males are white, while females have a saddleback grey and white pattern. There are nine breeds of goose native to the UK: see the other eight at rbst.org.uk.

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Tip: Alpine strawberries provide tiny fruits, which are perfect for adding to glasses of sparkling wine

PICK YOUR OWN STRAWBERRIESEVEN IF YOU’RE SHORT on time and space, you can easily grow strawberries. Nothing quite beats the taste of this quintessentially British fruit when perfectly ripe and freshly picked. Mature plants are widely available and resilient, so can be popped into the ground in late spring or early summer. Choose well and you can have a succession of berries from May right up until late September. ‘Christine’ is a great early variety, traditional ‘Cambridge Favourite’ will see you

through Wimbledon, and ‘Florence’ is a late bloomer. But if you have space for only one, make it flavour-packed ‘Royal Sovereign’.

Strawberry plants have shallow roots, so can be grown in pots, planters, hanging baskets and growbags, but they’ll do even better in the ground or a raised bed with well-manured soil. When the fruits start to develop, net them to keep the birds off, while laying barley straw at the base will help to suppress weeds.

Breed of the month West of England goose


1 Tear two pieces of handmade paper in contrasting colours to create a rough edge around each one. One piece should be 2cm smaller than the other in length and width. Using a spray adhesive, stick the sheets to the cover of the notebook, the smaller one on top of the larger.

2 Decorate with pressed flowers. We used violas and rosebuds, but you can use anything from your garden or collected from hedgerows. Daisies, poppies and buttercups all press well, and grasses can also work beautifully. If you don’t have a flower press, place a few of them between two sheets of blotting paper and weight down with a stack of books for at least two days, preferably longer.

A simple make... PRESSED-FLOWER JOURNALPersonalise stationery with scraps of handmade paper and pressed flowers

3 Secure delicate pressed flowers onto the paper with a small piece of double-sided tape and glue on the rosebuds. Cut out smaller strips of paper and mount these below the pressed flowers as labels.

4 Title your notebook by inscribing the label in your own handwriting – it could be for garden notes or favourite recipes. Using a dip pen and sepia ink will give it a timeless feel, or simply use a nice handwriting pen.

Designer, cook and author Sophie Conran shares her favourite seasonal flavourThe British asparagus season runs from 23 April to Midsummer Day (24 June) and many festivals and celebrations take place across the country to mark it. If you live by the sea and want to grow this wonderful vegetable, you are in luck, as it thrives on sandy soil and can tolerate higher levels of salinity than most plants. Otherwise, look for British asparagus at farmers’ markets and supermarkets now. It can be roasted, fried, steamed, boiled or sliced and added to salads, dipped into eggs, drizzled with olive oil or hollandaise, or, my personal favourite, eaten with a little melted butter. Find out more at sophieconran.com.

QUILTING COURSES31 Quilt as you go

Brook Farm, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire Make a patchwork wall hanging using the ‘quilt as you go’ technique, which allows you to work on three layers at once. 18 June, £32 (01480 891746; beeingcrafty.co.uk).

2 Patchwork and quilting

Hampton Court Village, Surrey Courses at Creative Quilting are run for enthusiasts of all skill levels – beginners can even hire a sewing machine – and tea and biscuits are served alongside plenty of guidance. Dates flexible, £39 (020 8941 7075; craftcourses.com).

3 Table runner class

Ditchling, East Sussex On this two-part course, you will learn how to make a patchwork runner as you master the basics of quilting and stitching. 21 June and 5 July, £60 (07967 819540; madeandmaking.co.uk).

An ingredient to enjoy ASPARAGUS

countryliving.co.uk

Back-garden birdwatcher

WHEN YOU HEAR the liquid twittering and whistles of a goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) on a warm June day, and see the flash of yellow and red feathers, it’s easy to understand why the bird’s collective noun is a ‘charm’. Numbers dropped dangerously low in Victorian times, as their attractive look and song made them popular as cage birds, but recent years have seen an increase in populations, largely due to more of us putting out food for garden birds. Their long, fine beaks are designed to prise seeds from thistles and teasels, but are also perfect for hunting out their favourite from your bird feeder – the tiny black nyger seeds.

LISTEN OUT FOR GOLDFINCHES

RuraldictionaryPleaching The traditional craft of

trimming and interlacing

branches to form a stock-

proof hedge.

The lush green growth from ridges of planted potatoes is now beginning to fill out and the rows that started as small pockets of leaves poking out in May will begin to meet over the coming weeks. Early varieties of potato will flower around this time of year – pretty pink, white, blue and purple blooms – indicating that their harvest is imminent. You may see machines ‘flailing’ the top growth from the plants to stop them from growing larger before they’re lifted from the ground later in the month.

TOP OF THE CROPSFind out what you’ll be seeing on British farmland this June

30 DAYS WILD

NEWS YOU CAN USE

QUIRKY COUNTRYSIDE

Nettle eatingDo you have what it takes to be crowned king or

queen of the stingers? Head to the Dorset village of Marshwood on 18 June to watch – or join – one of

Britain’s most eccentric traditions: the World Stinging Nettle Eating Championship. Competitors travel from

far and wide to the Bottle Inn (bottle-inn.net) for this alternative pub lunch, a freshly picked serving of two- foot-long nettle stalks. At midday, brave competitors

embark on a test of endurance, stripping each stalk and consuming as many of the stinging leaves as they can stomach in a single hour to win this coveted title.

How often do you pause to smell a wild flower, watch a bird or create a home for nature? This month, The Wildlife Trusts are asking you to take part in their 30 Days Wild challenge, a random act of wildness for every day throughout June. Wherever you live or however busy you are, this is your chance to make room for nature. Be inspired by 101 fun ideas listed on The Wildlife Trusts’ website (wildlifetrusts.org), from holding a meeting in the sun and enjoying a stroll through your local park to spending an evening under the stars or even digging a pond. Share your wild moments using #30DaysWild.


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A PLACE TO STAY… A CARAVANRomantic and ruralTake your pick from two gypsy caravans – Rowan or Holly – in the grounds of Powis House. Holly has a traditional cupboard bed, and you can enjoy breakfast delivered to your door. Bramble Bield, near Stirling; from £140 for two nights (bramblebield.com).

Vintage and vibrantSybil the 1940s caravan is full of retro charm with crocheted blankets and vintage china. Set in a wild-flower meadow, you will wake up to sunrise views across the Black Mountains. Mad Dogs and Vintage Vans, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire; from £180 for two nights (maddogsandvintagevans.co.uk).

Cool and contemporary

Settle in the kitsch comfort of a gleamingly restored Airstream in the Towy Valley. This huge American trailer comes complete with a king-size bed. Ty Cefn Tregib, Ffairfach, Llandeilo; from £63 per night (canopyandstars.co.uk). See our Romantic Retreats booklet for more unusual places to stay.

Garden Friends (National Trust Books, £9.99)*Harness the power of natural pest controllers instead of chemicals by encouraging wildlife into your garden. This guide from gardening expert Ed Ikin includes advice about tempting slug-munching hedgehogs to your patch, and tricks for clever companion planting to put pests off the scent.

A BOOK TO READ

A walk to take

The Life of the Robin (Pallas Athene, £9.99)By David Lack, one of the great British ornithologists, this book is perfect for birdwatchers and anyone who has enjoyed the company of a robin while weeding in the garden. It was Lack’s observations that revealed how robins sing to defend their territory and will fight to the death but also feed injured opponents. This classic work is as relevant today as it was when first published in 1943.

In early summer, a walk alongside your local stream, river or canal could bring you nose-to-nose with the lovable Ratty from The Wind in the Willows. Water voles love healthy waterways, with lush, green vegetation and shallow banks, so stroll beneath the swaying willows and purple- hued alders along the water’s edge, and time your ramble for early evening on a warm day. Listen for a loud ‘plop’ – like a pebble dropping into water – and watch for the streamlined shape of a water vole gliding fast through the water. If you spy one on the bank, you may see it munching on stems: they eat 80 per cent of their body weight every day in the breeding season. For good places for sightings, visit wildlifetrusts.org/lovewildlife.

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F I N D YO U R D R E A M C O U N T RY H O M E

PENELLICK, PELYNT, LOOE, CORNWALL £895,000

Each month, we choose our favourite country property currently on the market

SITUATED BETWEEN THE POPULAR FISHING and sailing villages of Fowey and Looe, this five-bedroom Cornish farmhouse is perfect for all would-be smallholders. With parts dating back to the turn of the 15th century, Penellick was originally built as a hall house and its roof is one of the oldest in Cornwall. It sits in ten acres, with formal lawns, herbaceous borders, a kitchen garden and even its own apple orchard. Two additional paddocks offer the opportunity to keep horses or livestock, and outbuildings include an old piggery, a well house, stables and stone barn.

Inside, the house is full of period features with stone walls and chamfered wooden door arches. The sitting room has a slate floor, inglenook fireplace with woodburning stove and a window seat. Upstairs, the galleried drawing room has exposed trusses and beams, and a second flight of stairs leads up to another timber-floored landing and the master bedroom, which also has a vaulted ceiling and views over the garden and grounds.

Enjoy the latest home and property features, plus much more, in the CL free weekly newsletter. To sign up, text CL to 84499 followed by your email address.*

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FOR DETAILS OF THIS AND OTHER RURAL HOUSE S FOR SALE SEE COUNTRYLIVING.CO.UK

C L P RO M OT I O N

Deliciously versatile

Add a flavoursome twist to a range of dishes with the creamy goodness of natural yogurt

lthough we all know how great a bowl of fresh fruit or granola tastes

when topped with a generous dollop of yogurt for breakfast, this delicious

ingredient can also be used to bring a special touch to all kinds of dishes – both sweet and savoury – throughout the day. From exciting salad dressings and soups and curries to perfect puddings and tempting teatime treats such as a mouthwatering coconut and raspberry cake (see recipe, far right), a few spoonfuls of yogurt can make all the difference. Somerset-based family farm Yeo Valley makes its quality dairy products using British organic milk, which supports UK farmers. And as its creamy natural yogurt contains no added sugar, it is not only delicious but is a healthy option at any time of day, too.

COCONUT & RASPBERRY YOGURT CAKE Preparation 20 minutes Cooking 30-35 minutes Serves 10-12 70g Yeo Valley Unsalted Butter 115g caster sugar2 large eggs 40g Yeo Valley Organic Natural Yogurt 115g self-raising flour1 tsp baking powder 50g desiccated coconut100g fresh or frozen raspberriesicing sugar, to serve

1 Preheat the oven to 160°C/gas mark 3. Grease and line the base of a 20cm cake tin.

2 Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix together the eggs and yogurt, then add to the butter and sugar and mix thoroughly.

3 Fold in the flour, then add the baking powder and coconut and mix until combined. Add the raspberries and stir gently.

4 Pour into the cake tin and bake for 30-35 minutes. Allow to cool, dust with icing sugar and serve.

Visit yeovalley.co.uk to find out about Yeo Valley’s delicious dairy products and to discover more tips and tricks for how to use them. The Yeo Valley range is available nationwide.

RU R A L RO M A N C E

countryliving.co.uk

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COUNTRY LOVING

WHEN I FIRST MET MY HUSBAND Ted, he told me that his earliest memory was of playing with a very old Shire horse that lived in the farm orchard. Although he wasn’t supposed to, Ted would squeeze under the fence and fuss over the bony creature, feeding him carrots and patting his face. The only problem was that whenever Ted tried to leave, the lonely horse would place one of his enormous feet over Ted’s, gently pinning him in place.

I’ve been thinking about loneliness a lot recently, as it’s the real reason I’m trying internet dating. I don’t want to be on my own when my children leave home. And the pressure is making me do things out of character: like leaving the farm during haymaking. It should be a wonderful time of year. Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly mown hay? But it’s stressful on this farm, where my son Henry is running a contracting business. This afternoon he only managed to big-bale half our crop before rushing off to placate a customer, and, as nearly all the stacking was done, I thought I could nip out on a date.

“Really?” my sister-in-law Susie said, as we stood amid the bales.“You’re the one who started me on this,” I replied. “And the

weather’s set fair.”“Don’t say that,” she said, crossing her fingers and firing up the loader.I hurried down to my car through the golden rows. My date was

waiting for me in the beer garden of a nearby pub, and I was relieved to discover he actually looked like his online photo. Except sadder and more crushed. Internet dating is like the old-fashioned sort but back-to-front and upside down: instead of starting with instant attraction, you know for sure someone is up for it – and spend the entire meeting wondering if you even like them. This guy, Andy, was bald – which I don’t mind – with an anxious, pointy-nosed face. I just wished I’d never met our hot vet, because the comparison did Andy no favours. Instead, he was somewhere on a sliding scale between “Oh no! I could never kiss you!” and “Maybe. If we grew to like each other.” He looked at me thoughtfully – as if, I realised to my horror, he felt the same about me. After some small talk, he began to slowly tell a story: “A… friend met someone on a dating site but there was no spark.”

I nodded. That’s exactly what this felt like. Flat. “But, as they liked each other, they met up every

month. Went to the theatre. That sort of thing. Then after they’d been friends for two years, she got drunk one night and texted him, saying she really cared for him.”

“So what happened?” I asked, wondering if I could hear thunder or if it was just a heavy load of hay going by.

Tears filled Andy’s eyes and I felt a rush of sympathy. “He realised he was in love,” he said. “And he raced to her house to tell her.”

“That’s very romantic,” I said, as he blinked. “Are you OK?”My mobile bleeped. It was one word, from Susie: “Rain!”Back at the farm she’d dragged the rusty old International B47

out of the cobwebby machinery shed and was forcing it up the rows while her daughter, Freddie, piled misshapen bales in heaps.

“Where’s Henry?” I shouted into the wind. “Who knows?” Freddie said. We fought to cover the bales with rick

sheets, and when the rain really got going, we ran to the barn, soaked. “So how was your date?” Susie asked.“Not good.”“Can’t you be friends?”“He’d never stop there,” I said, darkly.“Never mind,” she said. “Who needs men when you can make

hay in a thunderstorm with us?”

Columnist Imogen Green discusses the role that loneliness plays in internet dating and debates the importance of feeling a ‘spark’

START YOUR OWN RURAL LOVE STORY Are you looking for a partner who shares your love of the countryside? If so, there are hundreds of people just like you. Meet them on our new dating website: country-loving.co.uk.

‘Widow seeks that magic

spark – with man who

copes whenlife getsstormy’

C L EV E N T


IF YOU HAVE EVER FELT BAFFLED by online dating, wondered how on earth to take the right profile picture or simply become frustrated by the challenges of rural dating (when it can feel like the nearest single person is in the next county), then this event is for you.

7PM TALK: FINDING LOVE IN THE COUNTRYJoin us for an entertaining discussion of the good, the bad and the occasionally downright ugly world of online dating and rural matchmaking. Hosted by former Farmer Wants a Wife presenter Catherine Gee, our panel will share their experiences and offer expert advice on finding love online. Duncan Cunningham is founder of The Dating Lab and has been involved in the launch of dozens of dating websites, including CL’s very own rural site, Country Loving (country-loving.co.uk). Having seen tens of thousands of dating profiles, he knows the difference between eye-catching and off-putting, and will be sharing his tips. Novelist Emma Gray (her book One Girl and Her Dogs is published by Sphere at £8.99) and Country Living columnist and author Imogen Green have both written extensively about their personal experiences of rural dating. They will be revealing the highs and lows of finding love in the countryside.

8PM DRINKS RECEPTION Afterwards, join us in the Relish Bar, where you will be able to chat to our panellists and meet like-minded country singletons.

JOIN US FOR A ROLL IN THE HAY!

Unlock the secrets of online dating (and possibly meet your own country lover) at the Hay Literary Festival with our event,

Finding Love in the Countryside, taking place on 2 June

Jo and Andy first met while making tea in the Hay office kitchen. Their first date was fish and chips while watching the sun set over the Black Mountains – it must have gone well because earlier this year they welcomed the arrival of their first child.

For Ella and Finn, meeting at Hay wasn’t just the beginning of a romance but a whole lifestyle change. Soon after, they moved to Dumfries and Galloway to set up their own B&B (gallowayhouse estate.co.uk) and Wigtown Book Festival.

Journalist Sarfraz Manzoor met his wife Bridget on the last Sunday of the Hay Festival in 2008 when they found themselves on the same return train to London. Bridget had intended to get an earlier one but stayed to sit in the sun on the

platform. They then married and had their daughter Laila in 2012.

HAY-STRUCK When it comes to romance, the festival has a bit of a track record,

as demonstrated by these couples whose story began here

The event is on 2 June 2016 – to buy tickets and find out more, visit hayfestival.com. If you’re not able to join us, why not visit country-loving.co.uk or share your rural dating stories by emailing [email protected]. PH

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LET YOUR

SHINETALENT

In our series celebrating home-grown skills, we meet women making the most of their hobby, whether they’re earning from their kitchen table or launching a fully fledged business. Plus,

discover different ways to follow in their footstepsWORDS BY CAROLINE WHEATER PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALUN CALLENDER

THIS MONTH: THE JEWELLER


n a warm summer’s day, the door and windows of Alice Robson’s shepherd’s-hut-style studio in Sussex

are thrown open to catch the breeze. Sitting at her workbench, Alice concentrates hard as she files a silver

ring so that its surface is smooth to the touch. Next to her is a little pile of laser-cut silver shapes that she will make into her signature Pod pendants and earrings later that day. These are just two of the many tasks that she has to fit in between the hours of 10am and 4pm when her children, Fergus, 16, and Edie, 14, are at school.

“I’ve always wanted to do this business around my family – I’m a hands-on mum and I want to be there for them when they come home from school,” she explains, as she snatches a tea break on a sunshine-yellow wooden bench on the terrace outside her garden studio. “I only do fairs that are local or easily accessible to me, usually in Kent, Sussex and London. But I do have ambitions – I would love to get into the Goldsmiths’ Fair this autumn in the City. I’ll keep applying until I crack it,” she says, with an air of cheery determination.

Alice, 48, set up her jewellery business in 2005, after casting around for a job she could combine well with life at home. She had learnt jewellery design some 20 years earlier at Central Saint Martins before practising it for a short time with high-fashion jewellers Dinny Hall, then John Donald. This was followed by a stint travelling in Asia for 14 months. “When I returned to the UK in 1993, I needed a salary, quick, and I got a job as a receptionist at a start-up telecoms company,” she explains. “There were lots of opportunities and I was soon offered a role in sales, rising to become an account manager.” She continued working in this world until 2002 when she and her architect husband James moved to the country with two-year-old Fergus shortly before the birth of Edie.

Throughout her time in the telecoms industry, Alice kept her metre-wide workbench and made a few little things, but by 2005 the idea of returning to her trade as a jeweller had taken root: “I made a tiny silver box for a godson’s christening and that was the turning point. It felt rewarding to do something I really enjoyed – I’d never felt entirely comfortable in sales. When I was younger I didn’t have the

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE After building a light-filled garden studio where she could base her business, Alice has developed her handcrafted silver and

gold jewellery designs into coveted collections such as the distinctive Beaded and Pod – she often recycles clients’ items to make a bespoke piece of jewellery


confidence in my ability to design, but as a mum I had become much more self-assured about my own taste and style, and knew I could cope with unexpected challenges.”

Alice and James had savings of around £15,000 following the sale of their property in London and they used this to set up the fledgling business. Alice’s plan was to make her original designs, offer a re-making service for old or inherited pieces, and teach others jewellery making. Having a separate studio to do it all in was essential and James designed the cedar-clad garden building to Alice’s specifications, with plenty of windows for natural light, a woodburner to keep the space warm in winter, and four workbenches to accommodate students. “I wanted it to be an inspirational place for people to come to,” she says. She shopped cannily for equipment and materials, buying a job lot of specialist tools for £100 from the son of a family friend, and making additional purchases at Cooksongold and HS Walsh in Hatton Garden.

While the studio was under construction, Alice was already designing her own jewellery – one of the earliest ranges was the Beaded collection, which remains the most popular, and has since been joined by the subtly textured Pebble, Pod and Flint collections. “My pieces are all influenced by the organic shapes of nature – they are not an exact replica but more of an interpretation along simple lines,” she says. “I love mid-century-modern furniture and interior design, too, and one of my greatest inspirations is Lucienne Day and her repeat pattern fabrics from the 1950s such as Calyx and Flotilla.”

By 2007, with the studio finished, she was able to teach students for one-and-a-half days a week. “My turnover doubled in a year,”

DESIGNING JEWELLERYWords by Fiona Davies from WiRE (wireuk.org)

When it comes to setting up a business that involves being creative and crafting something beautiful, you can’t do much better than jewellery making.

COLLECTING CUSTOMERS Identify your niche – what makes your pieces special and different to others on the market? Telling a story around your collection – explaining your inspiration, your materials or your ethics – will help secure a sale.

Images are your best friend; make sure you have plenty showing your jewellery on models and stand-alone on a white background. Feature them on your website, social media and business cards, and change them often.

Think carefully about your business name. In order to recommend you, customers need to remember your name quickly, so keep it short and snappy.

OUT AND ABOUT Jewellery is often a spontaneous purchase; people want to touch and try. Research fairs and exhibitions – ask organisers for statistics and visit before you book. Only exhibit at places where the sort of people who buy your jewellery will be.

Make it easy for people to try and to imagine. Avoid glass barriers; instead have a big mirror and some scarves so people can experiment.

THE BUSINESS OF JEWELLERY Set aside time to review your finances, stock and marketing strategy. Just one day a week is enough, then your head can be clear for the other four.

Comply with all the legalities and practicalities of the industry, particularly the safety, wearability and statement of composition. If you need to register and apply a hallmark, contact theassayoffice.co.uk.

SOURCEBOOK The National Association of Jewellers – national trade association that promotes and supports UK jewellery and silverware suppliers (naj.co.uk).

Association for Contemporary Jewellery – representation and mentoring for contemporary jewellery makers in the UK (acj.org.uk).

London Jewellery School – support, courses and bootcamps covering the business and creative topics (londonjewelleryschool.co.uk).

SMALL-BUSINESSSTART-UP


she recalls. “Some people booked for a term, others ended up coming for two years or more.” Not only did the students bring in valuable income, they also bought pieces of Alice’s jewellery for themselves, recommended her to friends and generally widened her network of contacts. “Everything I earned from the teaching, I ploughed back into the business,” she says.

Alice has a realistic attitude to her business, and thinks a lot about making pieces accessible and affordable. “There’s always a battle between what I would like to make and what will sell. My customers want jewellery that is wearable, comfortable and goes with lots of things. They might buy a pair of £35 earrings for themselves at a fair, but their husbands will buy the matching necklace for £150 as a birthday present.” Attending fairs is also an important part of Alice’s business and she spends at least ten weekends a year selling at craft shows. She launched her website in autumn 2014 and has noticed an increasing number of sales coming through it. “First it was a support mechanism for the fairs, but now it is a selling tool.” She also updates her Facebook and Instagram pages every few days, seeing it as a way to stay in contact with her customers.

Alice enjoys being her own boss and the ebb and flow of her trade – at busy times, such as the run-up to Christmas, she will be making more than 30 pieces a week. “I constantly review what I do. Part of being a designer is never standing still, to always be growing and moving on.” It’s an attitude that has paid off – when she started out, she set herself the aim of earning £20,000 working part-time – it’s a goal that she has achieved and surpassed and, based on her sales figures, this could only be the beginning.

CL readers can receive a ten per cent discount until 31 May

2016 by visiting alicerobson.co.uk and quoting the code CLMAY.

ADD AN EXTRA DIMENSION

Cornwall-based Victoria Walker, 30, set up her own jewellery business in 2008, making

‘secretive and subtle’ kinetic (or moving) jewellery in flower forms such as Lotus, Lily,

Poppy and Rose. Initially she taught part-time to supplement her income. For Victoria,

shows are vital to demonstrate the way her designs move (she has explanatory videos on her website, too) and attending Goldsmiths’

Fair in London and Art in Action at Waterperry in Oxfordshire has introduced her to an

international audience. “The most important thing for a jeweller is to have a unique product,” she says, “and you need to have new pieces for return customers because they like to collect.”

(07773 621187; vwjewellery.co.uk)

TRY UNUSUAL MATERIALS “The best way to set up a jewellery business

is to start slowly and build momentum, and not be afraid to work really, really hard,

especially in the first five years,” says Edinburgh-based bespoke jeweller Grainne Morton, 45, who set up her ‘cottage industry’,

as she describes it, 21 years ago. Grainne makes distinctive necklaces and earrings

using materials such as vintage buttons and coloured rhinestones, 1950s plastic animal

charms and antique mother of pearl, all set into silver. “When I first began, I put

everything I earned back into the business. I’d advise against taking out loans and getting

into debt,” she says. Grainne has managed to fit her work around having two children, but often finds herself in her studio at weekends and in the evenings: “It’s a labour of love but

I wouldn’t want to do anything else.” (0131 443 2755; grainnemorton.co.uk)

MORE WAYS TO TURN YOUR TALENT INTO

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15WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR BATHROOM

Create a stylish and serene sanctuary with our easy and effective ideas for adding decorative detail and practical purpose

WORDS BY BEN KENDRICK

1Paint the underside of

a freestanding bath to make a colourful

statement, or panel the side of a boxed-in bath

with coloured tongue and groove. An eggshell paint will be durable enough to

withstand moisture and is wipeable for easy cleaning

Wallpaper can make a bathroom cosy and inviting and is practical if you choose the areas carefully – for example,

above dado height. To improve durability, the paper can be treated with decorator’s varnish.

A bright or patterned shower curtain can create a strong visual focus. Choose from seaside stripes, vintage florals, ticking or

graphic Scandinavian prints, all of which can look striking in a white interior, instantly adding decoration.

Use colourful areas of tiling on a countertop, splashback or up to dado height. Rectangular metro-style tiles (a wide range is

available from Topps Tiles) are popular but hexagonal, mosaic or decorative designs are effective if kept to a limited area.

Incorporate antique pieces of furniture to introduce character and contrast among modern bathroom fixtures. A vintage

freestanding or wall-mounted cupboard will make a stylish addition while concealing your everyday accessories.

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BAT H RO O M U P DAT ES


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Choose a paint shade for walls or woodwork that is

conducive to a relaxing feeling. White can be

chilly and clinical, so try warm greys and blues or

creams. Or, if your room is small or poorly lit, use a

rich, dark shade to create a cocoon-like effect.Fresh elements, such

as indoor plants, a flowering potted orchid,

flowers or even a tiny bud vase with a posy, can breathe life into

a bathroom. 8Geometric patterns can

create eye-catching areas of decoration on floors – the boards here have

been painted to look like tiles. Look for encaustic styles with bold designs

that have a warm semi-matt finish and

work well with underfloor heating.

50 JUNE 2016


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Introduce texture – baskets for storage, a woven bin, rugs or bare, grained wood – to bring in an element of warmth.

A rustic stool or bench or a wooden console can all provide tactile tone and contrast.

Antique or reproduction hooks and shelves for towels can introduce subtle decoration and detail while providing useful

storage for linens. Choose either a wall-mounted set or a freestanding rail and, ideally, position it above a radiator.

Many bathrooms benefit from the addition of fabric in some form to soften the cool, hard-edged look of chrome. A blind (even one that doesn’t function) or an under-sink or under-

counter curtain can be a practical way to incorporate it.

Unexpected elements not usually found in a bathroom can work surprisingly well. An old game rack, orchard ladder

for towels and a comfortable chair if you have space all add colour and create a quirky individual style.

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13Lighting in the form of a

chandelier or antique wall sconces can make elegant additions, provided they

meet safety requirements, or are sited well away from potential splashes. If they

will create the look you want but aren’t practical, they could serve as purely

decorative rather than functional light sources.

14Introduce some carefully chosen decorative pieces

for interest and colour. Pictures, prints, mirrors

and accessories with a marine theme, such as sailing boats or shells,

have a collective appeal, as well as individual charm.

15A practical choice that is easy to install, linoleum or vinyl comes in a wide

variety of plain colours or appealing geometric or floral patterns – other

designs can mimic stone or wood. It is also available in

tile form, which can be easier to lay.


DIRECTORY

BATHS AND SANITARYWARE

A AQATA (01455 896500; aqata.co.uk) Generously proportioned, high-quality shower enclosures with unique elements such as steam systems and seating areas. All handmade in Britain by this family-run company. Made-to-measure service. ASTON MATTHEWS (020 7226 7220; astonmatthews.co.uk) Wide range of quality bathroom fixtures, fittings and accessories. Spectrum of styles from design-led, contemporary pieces to more traditional looks. Offers to match any competitor’s prices.

B BATHSTORE (0800 023 2323; bathstore.com) Complete range of bathware, tiles, lighting etc and the latest designer looks at high-street prices. More than 170 stores across the UK, laid out in small room settings.

C CATCHPOLE & RYE (020 7351 0940; catchpoleandrye.com) Traditionally made cast-iron baths that suit period settings. Showrooms in Ashford, Kent and London. Various freestanding options, including a splendid shower bath. Also ranges of sinks, taps, fixtures and fittings in historic styles. CP HART (0845 873 1121; cphart.co.uk) Quality bathroom retailer offering a complete range of everything you could need for a bathroom, including lighting, flooring and taps. Wide range of price points and styles, from sleek modern to classic and traditional. Nine London showrooms and another five around the country.

D DRUMMONDS (020 7376 4499; drummonds-uk.com) Luxury freestanding baths in classic styles, including traditional roll-tops and bateau-lit designs, some in glamorous metallic finishes and also modern, updated versions. Also stocks stylish period-effect taps and sinks and other bathroom fittings of high quality. DURAVIT (0845 500 7787; duravit.co.uk) Specialists in bathroom and related fittings. Lots of modern designs that utilise the latest technology, some by designers including Philippe Starck. Stocked at bathroom showrooms, suppliers and through plumbers’ merchants.

G GEBERIT (0800 077 8365; geberit.co.uk) Top-quality baths and bathware made in Switzerland. Some designs incorporate cutting-edge technology. Carried by bathroom and plumbing suppliers nationwide. GROHE (0871 200 3414; grohe.co.uk) Complete range of bathroomware in modern designs, plus accessories in chrome. Large choice of shower systems and also sophisticated home-spa systems and larger

walk-in enclosures. Available through suppliers.H HANSGROHE (01372 472001; hansgrohe.co.uk)

Tap specialist with a large selection in chrome finishes. Also showers and bathroom mixer sets, many in sleek and contemporary styles. Stocked through a network of retail partners across the UK. HERITAGE BATHROOMS (0330 026 8501; heritagebathrooms.com) Wide range of different bathroom suites at reasonable prices, including cast-iron, claw-footed baths ready to paint yourself. Available through selected bathroom retailers.

M MATKI (01454 322888; matki.co.uk) Contemporary showers and bath screens made from toughened glass or chrome-plated aluminium. Also ceramic shower trays, brassware and large rainfall shower heads. Produces everything from a large, walk-in wetroom to a compact shower enclosure. Offers a ten-year guarantee. Carried by suppliers throughout the UK. MIRA SHOWERS (0844 571 5000; mirashowers.co.uk) Well-priced shower and tap specialist. Sells direct online and through suppliers nationwide. Also stocks shower enclosures, shower trays and a range of bathroom accessories.

N NEPTUNE (01793 427450; neptune.com) Fitted painted wooden cabinets and cupboards in classic styles. Also flooring, lighting, a good range of taps, sinks and marble-topped washstands. Now has 17 showrooms nationwide that offer a full planning consultation, including a site visit.

P PORCELANOSA (01923 815200; porcelanosa.com) This Spanish company specialises in contemporary bathrooms and also produces its own wall and floor tiles. It has 22 stores throughout the UK and Ireland.

R RIPPLES (0800 107 0700: ripples.ltd.uk) Complete bespoke design service offered in a broad spectrum of styles (including many of the latest innovative designs), which features

hand-drawn plans. Also has a range of luxurious bathroom products. There are 12 showrooms across the UK.

V VICTORIA PLUM (0344 804 4848; victoriaplum.com) Online-only retailer offering competitively priced bathroom suites, showers, accessories, heating, toilets, basins and furniture. Good choice of styles and prices.

TILESB BERT & MAY (020 3744 0776; bertandmay.com)

Reclaimed and handmade encaustic tiles. Geometric patterns and some with a Victorian aesthetic. Great for creating your own individual patchwork.

F FIRED EARTH (0113 243 0748; firedearth.com) Wide range of wall and floor tiles, and also bathware. Offers both traditional and contemporary designs, including wood- effect porcelain tiles.

M MANDARIN STONE (01600 715444; mandarinstone.com) Flooring specialist with ten UK showrooms. More than 100 different lines of flooring, including limestone, terracotta, slate, stone, mosaic, porcelain, marble and granite. Stone shower trays and sinks, plus attractive vanity units in painted wood with a stone top and a teak unit with counter-top basin in stone. MARLBOROUGH TILES (01672 515287; marlboroughtiles.com) Hand-painted traditional English wall tiles with Delft-like scenes or botanical motifs. Also a selection of porcelain floor tiles.

T TOPPS TILES (0800 783 6262; toppstiles.co.uk) Large range of very affordable bathroom and kitchen tiles, including natural stone and mosaic tiles. More than 340 stores nationwide, helpful ‘How to’ videos online for DIY tilers and a useful tile calculator.

LIGHTINGD DAVEY LIGHTING (01993 882251; originalbtc.

com) High-quality lighting made in England

with an industrial and nautical aesthetic, including bulkhead lights and utilitarian wall lights.

G GARDEN TRADING (0845 608 4448; gardentrading.co.uk) Reasonably priced designs, including metal and glass wall lights and a good range of exterior lights that would be suitable for a bathroom.

H HECTOR FINCH (020 7731 8886; hectorfinch.com) High-quality lighting of all types, which comes with a bespoke service for finishes and fittings. Range of rustic wall lanterns and other more sophisticated styles. HOLLOWAYS OF LUDLOW (01584 876207; hollowaysofludlow.com) Selection of period lighting, along with cast-iron radiators and bathrooms and taps. Array of wall lights with shades, plus glass, ceramic and metal designs.

J JIM LAWRENCE (01473 351518; jim-lawrence.co.uk) Family-run business in Suffolk that designs and crafts everything in its Stoke-by-Nayland workshops, including spotlights and wall lights. Many designs are available in a range of metallic finishes – for example, nickel, antique brass and copper. JOHN CULLEN (020 7371 9000; johncullenlighting.co.uk) All the lights produced by this company are designed in- house. Also offers a bespoke design service.

FLOORSG GERFLOR (01926 622600; gerflor.co.uk) A

wide range of vinyl flooring available in both tile form (some self-adhesive) and on-the-roll. All mimic natural materials such as stone effects or wooden boards.

H HARVEY MARIA (0845 6801231; harveymaria.co.uk) Modern vinyls and rubber flooring with collections by Dee Hardwicke, Cath Kidston and Neisha Crosland. Sprigged florals, geometrics and stylised petal shapes in a range of colours.

L LITTLE GREENE (0845 880 5855; littlegreene.com) Floor paints for boards in more than 200 colours with a tough mid-sheen finish that is hardwearing and washable. Sold through its own shops, decorating retailers and online.

N THE NATURAL WOOD FLOOR CO (020 8871 9771; naturalwoodfloor.co.uk) Good range of engineered wooden floors, which are suitable for a bathroom as they are much more stable than solid-wood planks. Available in oak, maple and walnut in several different finishes, including an attractive whitewashed effect.

Q QUICK-STEP (0844 811 8288; quick-step.co.uk) Large selection of laminate and vinyl flooring emulating wooden floors. Completely water- repellent and warm to the touch. Can be treated with both scratch- and stainguard.

countryliving.co.uk


56 JUNE 2016

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The CORDIAL BLENDER

The ICE-CREAM

MAKER

The BERRY

FARMER

RU R A L P RO D U C E R S


ESSENCEof summer

the

From indulgent desserts to fruity drinks, these three women create classic products that the season wouldn’t be complete without

WORDS BY RACHAEL OAKDEN PHOTOGRAPHS BY CLARE WINFIELD

The CORDIAL BLENDER

CHARLOTTE GRANT HAS BEEN a prolific pickler and jam maker for as long as she can remember. “I’ve always loved experimenting with the ingredients that nature provides,” she says. “I can’t bear the idea of wasting them.” It was while she was looking for something to do with the fruits of a mulberry tree in her parents’ Suffolk garden that she became interested in drinks when a friend gave her a bottle of mulberry cordial to try. “I love the fact that they’re only in season for a short time. It’s still one of my limited-edition flavours, made from the same tree.”

Seasonality and locality are at the heart of Hedgerow Cordials, the business Charlotte started while working as an environmental educator at Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Her richly aromatic syrups, hand-made in a shed in her parents’ garden, are created using berries, blooms and even weeds from local farms, gardens and allotments. The secret, she says, is to use really good ingredients and know what to do with them. “Fresh produce and sugar goes in; cordial comes out – there are no added concentrates,” she says. Her love of cooking and dabbling with flavours has produced winning combinations – pear and cinnamon, rhubarb and ginger, strawberry and elderflower – but other ingredients shine by themselves. “When I collect raspberries from the farm up the road, they fill the car with their smell. They’re one of the only fruits I don’t add other flavours to.”

Suffolk Raspberry is summer in a glass – over ice with sparkling water and a sprig of mint. It’s even better with a splash of vodka. Indeed, so popular are Hedgerow Cordials as bases for alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails that Charlotte and her boyfriend Ross Bennett, with whom she runs the business, have launched a street-food stall. “We sell most of our drinks over the mobile bar that we take to food fairs, music festivals and horse trials,” she explains. “To make a living selling bottles, we would have to produce such large quantities, all the creativity would go out of it.”

So if you come across a Suffolk Stinger – made with wild nettle cordial – at a folk festival or country fair this year, grab one while you can. Like all the best tastes of summer, its pleasures are fleeting. But nature keeps providing: soon Charlotte and Ross will be gathering hedgerow fruits and trying out recipes for winter cocktails and mulling syrups. “It’s a tough job,” Charlotte says, as she sips on a prototype spiced apple punch. “But someone’s got to do it.”

For a calendar of fairs and festivals Charlotte and Ross will be attending, see hedgerowcordials.co.uk.



OPPOSITE AND THIS PAGE Rhubarb

picked on a local farm combined with ginger

is a favourite flavour. With a splash of vodka,

it’s sold at Charlotte and Ross’s pop-up bar

as Rhubarb Roulette

The ICE-CREAM MAKER

IF YOU SEE A VINTAGE ICE-CREAM TRICYCLE under a tree in a country lane near the bottom of Windermere, don’t be shy about helping yourself. The ‘honesty bike’ belongs to Charlotte Sharphouse of Old Hall Farm, and the insulated box on the back is stocked with small tubs of the ice cream that she makes by hand from the milk of her Jersey cows. It tastes even better if you follow the track up to the on-farm tea room and sit beneath the bunting to enjoy a knickerbocker glory from a vintage sundae glass. “There’s nothing new about making ice cream on a farm,” Charlotte says. “What’s different about ours is that it’s made with care using the best ingredients possible.”

Charlotte knows a thing or two about puddings. She was, until last year, the director of the Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding Company in the South Lakes. But she’s also a pony-mad countrywoman, which is why, eight years ago, she and her steam-engineer husband Alex bought a derelict 150-acre dairy farm in the bowl-shaped valley of Bouth (pronounced ‘Bowth’), near Ulverston, Cumbria. “The plan was to restore and work it as a traditional mixed farm,” she explains, “ploughing with heavy horses and growing feed for our animals.”

Food production was integral to the plan. Originally, Charlotte wanted to make blue cheese, but as more people took an interest in their historic methods, they got planning permission to turn Old Hall Farm into a hands-on visitor attraction. “We realised that people don’t say to their children: ‘Let’s go out for a piece

of cheese,’” Charlotte explains. “That’s when my son, Joe, who was studying at agricultural college, had the idea to make ice cream.”

With the help of a rural enterprise grant, the family converted the former dairy into an ice-cream parlour and invested in a batch freezer and pasteuriser. But after Old Hall Farm opened to the public, Charlotte fell off a horse and broke her back. “I couldn’t walk for six months,” she remembers. “We had to write off our first summer.”

Three years later, through sheer determination and tireless work, Charlotte and Alex are on their way to achieving their vision. As she walks around a bustling farmyard populated by rare-breed piglets, clucking chickens and working horses – including her beloved Skye, the gentle Shire that gave her the confidence to handle horses again – she explains that ice-cream sales have been crucial to the farm’s viability. Now the sole ice-cream maker (Joe, having graduated, works for an agricultural firm in the northern



OPPOSITE Visitors flock to Old Hall Farm

to see the animals and classic farm machinery and eat the homemade

ice cream THIS PAGE Elfin, one of the Jersey

cows that provides butter-rich milk for

the ice cream

Lake District), she milks her growing herd of Jerseys in the original parlour, three at a time, once a day, using 1930s equipment. “All the cows have names,” says Charlotte, as she greets Madge, a calf that she raised by bottle in her Georgian farmhouse.

The milk goes straight to the ice-cream parlour and into the pasteuriser. “It’s one step up from the kitchen table,” Charlotte says, as she removes a four-litre jugful and uses a hand blender to combine it with a rich strawberry purée. This goes into the eight-litre batch freezer and, ten minutes later, dollops of pale-pink ice cream start wriggling out of the bottom. Collecting it in a tub, Charlotte adds a large spoonful of jewel-bright strawberry conserve and swirls it through by hand. Dense and velvety, with an intense fruity taste that belies its delicate colour, the ice cream is dispensed alongside

vanilla, mint choc chip and sticky toffee pudding flavour (naturally) from the counter next to the parlour. It’s also balled into sundaes and served alongside Charlotte’s home-baked cakes in The Chicken Shed Tea Room – a wooden hut salvaged from the nearby Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway.

This multi-tasking mother (whose younger son Alfie still lives at home) doesn’t have much time to enjoy the tea room’s Lakeland views. But peering out of the dairy on a busy day lifts her heart: “The farmyard is buzzing with families or school groups and there’s a queue for ice creams out of the door. I can’t describe the glow it gives me. It’s a gut feeling that we’re doing something right.”

For more about Old Hall Farm, visit oldhallfarmbouth.com.


64 JUNE 2016

NO FRUIT TASTES BETTER than a ripe strawberry or raspberry that’s fresh off the bush. But a handful of recently plucked berries scattered over a home-made pavlova eaten with the sun on your back has to be the next best thing.

Such is the set-up at Wild Strawberry Café, a yurt next to the pick-your-own fields at Peterley Manor Farm in the Chiltern Hills. It was opened two years ago by Katy Brill, a professional cook

The BERRY FARMER

whose parents, Roger and Jane Brill, have been running a farm shop on their 40-acre fruit and veg holding since the 1980s. “Mum used to plonk me on the counter while she served,” Katy says. “I still meet customers who remember me sitting in my baby carrier playing with a brown paper bag.”

Now, when those regulars encounter Katy, she’s likely to be on her way back from her parents’ fields, arms filled with punnets



brimming with freshly gathered berries. In an on-site kitchen next to the café known locally as ‘The Yurt’, she transforms the best of the day’s crops – including her parents’ organically grown vegetables and locally sourced meats and cheeses from the farm shop – into simple, summery dishes. “From the start, I was really stubborn about doing everything from scratch,” says Katy, whose most popular offerings include jam-jar granola with berry compote, and roasted rainbow beetroot salad with walnut pesto. It’s all washed down with apple juice pressed from the farm’s orchard fruits at tables decorated with blooms from its flower fields – part of the view from the outside tables and straw-bale seating.

“Everything is inspired by what’s growing locally,” says Katy, who didn’t set out to become a chef. She was studying history at the University of St Andrews when the thriving local food culture of the small student town took her in a culinary direction. “I was always filling the freezer with made-from-scratch soups, and throwing dinner parties,” she says. She then started working as a private chef during student holidays. “I would go with families to the Scottish Highlands, and they’d come home with a grouse they’d just shot or present me with a salmon. It was really good for my confidence,” she says.

The idea of opening a café at Peterley Manor Farm was often discussed around the family’s kitchen table, but it wasn’t until she’d spent a further four years, post-graduation, cheffing around the world that Katy felt ready for the challenge. “In April 2014, I came back from a job in Australia and said to Mum and Dad, ‘We’re doing it – and we have to be open for the summer PYO


countryliving.co.uk

THIS PAGE June marks the beginning of the farm’s busiest period. By July,

customers will be able to gather strawberries,

gooseberries, raspberries, blackberries, blackcurrants

and redcurrants

season.’ Our stumbling block was that we didn’t have a lovely old barn just sitting there waiting to be turned into a café. Dad came up with the idea of doing something temporary, just to see how it went. I said: ‘Dad, that’s called a pop-up!’” Opening the following June in a second-hand yurt delivered from Scotland, the ‘pop-up’ proved so popular that Katy found herself still serving meals at Christmas. Now it closes only during the coldest winter months (and on Mondays). “Our Sunday-morning breakfasts are really popular with walkers, cyclists and horse riders,” says Katy, who claims to make the best bacon buttie in Buckinghamshire (with Amersham rashers and sourdough bread). As for the berries tumbling over her pancake stacks, it goes without saying that they haven’t travelled far.

For more about Peterley Manor Farm, go to peterleymanorfarm.co.uk.



THIS PAGE Fresh berries form a key

part of Katy’s menu in summer – her

strawberry pavlova is a particular favourite

For more details on the Amtico range, call 0121 514 5694 or visit amtico.com to request a brochure, order samples or find your nearest retailer.

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Amtico’s Signature collection of custom-design premium vinyl flooring is the ideal choice for a unique look that will enhance any room. There is a wide variety of designs, from realistic rustic woods to smart stone styles, with a choice of traditional, classic and contemporary laying options. Many of these can be cleverly mixed, allowing you to produce your own layout. The collection also includes statement motifs, great for adding an eye-catching focal point in a large open space, and decorative border options to define certain areas (as shown above). Amtico Signature flooring is extra hardwearing with a 1mm wear layer, is warm underfoot, easy to clean, compatible with underfloor heating and comes with a lifetime warranty. And if you need more inspiration, take a look at Amtico’s online room visualiser, which has all the tools to help you find the perfect products for your home.

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72 JUNE 2016

With secluded coves and creeks, pretty fishing villages, wooded countryside and scenic headlands, this

unspoilt part of south Cornwall is a magnet for walkers and those in search of a slower pace of life

WORDS BY BRIAN JACKMAN

The one spot that sums up the magic of this corner of

Cornwall would have to be St Just in Roseland’s church, wrapped by its sub-tropical churchyard on a tidal creek overlooking the Fal Estuary.

Perhaps the best way to see it is by an easy two-mile walk

via the coastal path from St Mawes. The granite church

dates from the 13th century and stands on holy ground,

having been built on the site of a 5th-century Celtic chapel.

What makes it so special is its romantic setting. At high

tide, the sea laps against the wall. Yachts lie offshore at

their moorings, and the churchyard is surrounded by

luxuriant vegetation, as if nature has decided to shut

out the rest of the world.

Among the ferns and mossy banks are clear rivulets and ponds overhung with giant

gunnera. Oaks and palm trees hold back the winds, and native plants flourish

alongside fuchsias, hydrangeas, magnolias and

camellias in a flamboyant demonstration of south

Cornwall’s forgiving climate.

BLESSED WITH THE LOVELIEST NAME in Cornwall, Roseland is that beguiling peninsula of wooded creeks and National Trust clifftops that follows the Fal Estuary down to St Mawes and then turns eastward past Portloe towards Dodman Point. Down here, even in the deep midwinter, you can feel the mildness in the air. The first daffodils bloom in December. Come February and the magnolias in the grounds of Caerhays Castle are ablaze with the miracle of the Cornish spring, and in June the lanes are thronged with foxgloves.

Roseland begins at Tregony, on the upper reaches of the Fal. This is the gateway to a tangle of oakwood valleys and tilted fields set apart from the rest of Cornwall by the river and its mile-wide estuary. In these lost lands between the woods and the water lie quiet villages whose names ring out like Celtic poetry: Crugsillick, Treluggan, Polhendra, Ruan Lanihorne… Seek them out and you’ll soon find yourself driving down corkscrew lanes to valley bottoms where, even though you may be miles from the sea, tidal creeks steal through the trees and its salty tang is everywhere.

Sooner or later, all roads lead to St Mawes, to Roseland’s glorious heritage coast and the shining sands of Veryan Bay in the shadow of Nare Head. The beaches here are safe and sheltered, and if you come in June when the sea light is as dazzling as anywhere in the Mediterranean, you’ll find quintessential Cornwall at its best.

F O L L O W T H E FA LRising on Goss Moor National Nature Reserve near St Austell, the Fal is the river whose 11-mile journey to the sea marks Roseland’s northern limits. Tidal as far inland as Ruan Lanihorne, its lower reaches are smothered in oak woods and

its estuary, also known as Carrick Roads, is the world’s third-largest natural harbour. Geologists call it a ria, a drowned river valley formed when sea levels rose after the last Ice Age, and its gleaming tideways, set about with riverside inns, oyster beds and flamboyant sub-tropical gardens, are one of the defining glories of south Cornwall.

You can explore it all from the water – and St Mawes is where to begin. Set at the mouth of the Percuil River, it is by far the best-known resort in Roseland, still guarded by its Tudor castle and renowned for its pretty harbour. This is the departure point for the passenger ferry to Falmouth (falriver.co.uk). The adult return fare costs £9.50 – a small price to pay for a 20-minute cruise across the West Country’s finest sailing waters.

C R E E K S A N D O Y S T E R SOnce in Falmouth it would be a shame to miss the National Maritime Museum on Discovery Quay (nmmc.co.uk), and the chance to stop for a plate of flat-shelled native oysters (Ostrea edulis). Still gathered by traditional gaff-rigged boats from creeks and tributaries that are home to the last wild oyster beds in Cornwall, their flavour has been described as ‘like kissing the ocean’.

Afterwards, make your way back along Market Street to the Prince of Wales Pier and board the ferry for Truro (falriver.co.uk). The journey takes just over an hour and, once you have passed Restronguet Point, the hills close in and the woods reach to the water’s edge.

G L O R I O U S G A R D E N SAlternatively, why not spend a day aboard the Alice Rose, a 38ft traditional ‘gentleman’s motor launch’ belonging to the Nare Hotel (narehotel.co.uk/alicerose)? Scheduled sailings depart from Tolverne every Tuesday and Friday until October. The price for a maximum of eight

JUNE 2016 73

T R AV E L

LIVING LANDSCAPE

guests is £85 per person, including a sublime picnic lunch in a quiet cove on the Helford River.

Or cross the Fal on the King Harry Chain Ferry to visit Trelissick, one of the National Trust’s flagship gardens (nationaltrust.org.uk/trelissick). Upstream lies a ghostly fleet of giant container ships – victims of the global recession – and on the opposite bank is the Tregothnan Estate, the first place in Britain with its own tea plantation. The first bushes were planted in 1999 and thrive in a climate akin to Darjeeling’s.

Return to St Mawes and visit Lamorran Gardens (lamorrangardens.co.uk), a stunning sub-tropical hotspot complete with sea views to rival the Italian Riviera. Within its four acres are pools, streams and a small temple surrounded by hundreds of palms, tree ferns, proteas and 500 varieties of azaleas.

C L I F F T O P S A N D S A N D Y B AY SSouth Cornwall may lack the savage beauty of the Atlantic coast, but out on the breezy National Trust clifftops of Zone Point, Nare Head and the Dodman, there is grandeur enough for all, as a walk along the South West Coast Path will reveal. This is Roseland’s heritage coast, its peaceful coves and beaches strung out around two bays.

First comes Gerrans Bay, overlooked by Portscatho and its pocket-sized harbour. Follow the coast path from here as it squirms through jungles of wind-bent sloes and you pass a series of quiet beaches with limpet-strewn strand lines, first Porthcurnick and then the flat golden sands of Carne and Pendower, the jewels in south Cornwall’s crown, stretching for more than half a mile towards Nare Head. Continue east beyond the Nare and you’re in National Trust territory virtually all the way to Portloe, a cleft in the cliffs of Veryan Bay where fishermen stack their crab pots on the harbour slipway.

Trelissick Gardens

Prince of Wales Pier

Veryan Bay

St Mawes Castle

A fresh oyster from the Fal

Lamorran Gardens


T R AV E L

Carrick Roads

Dodman Point

Nare Head

Portscatho

Gerrans Bay

Trelissick

Tregothnan

St Just in Roseland

St Mawes

Falmouth

Lamorran Gardens

Tregony

To T

ruro

Portmellon

Tre

Portloe

Veryan

PLACES TO STAY

PLACES TO EAT

3 Fort Cottage, St Mawes Spacious self-catering holiday cottage set in the grounds of St Mawes Castle with sweeping views over the Fal Estuary. Sleeps four. Dogs welcome. Seven nights from £522 (0370 333 1187; [email protected]).

2 Porth Farm House, St Anthony A traditional stone cottage five minutes’ walk from Towan Beach on St Anthony Head, combining comfort and character. Sleeps five. Dogs welcome. A five-night stay in June costs £893 (0344 800 2070; nationaltrustholidays.org.uk).

1 The Nare Hotel, Carne Beach Spoil yourself at this stylish country-house hotel. Sherry decanters in your room, a choice of pools and one of Britain’s finest beaches right on your doorstep – a night or two here and you’ll never want to leave. Double B&B and sumptuous dinner from £290 (01872 501111; narehotel.co.uk).

1 The Hidden Hut, Porthcurnick Beach This wooden tide’s-edge beach café, half a mile along the coast path from

Portscatho, is a perfect summer lunch spot. Specials include split pea and slow-roast ham soup for £5. For evening feasts, you’ll need to book (seetickets.com). The seafood paellas are legendary (hiddenhut.co.uk).

2 The Lugger Hotel, Portloe Dine on locally sourced fish and seafood at this

17th-century whitewashed inn with its feet in the sea (01872 501322; lugger hotel.co.uk).

3 Hotel Tresanton, St Mawes Olga Polizzi’s elegant hotel has a suitably stylish restaurant and terrace overlooking the sea. The emphasis is on simply but wonderfully cooked fresh fish (01326 270055; tresanton.com).

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TrugsRETRO The galvanised metal trug from Crocus is a copy of a classic piece of 1950s design. Lightweight, it has a lacquered surface for extra protection (£19.99, crocus.co.uk). BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT The slatted wooden trug (shown above) is handmade exclusively for the Highgrove Shop using air-dried hardwood from a sustainable Welsh woodland (£29.95, highgroveshop.com). ORIGINAL The Truggery makes the only authentic Sussex trugs from willow and chestnut. There is a range of sizes, but the No.6 Garden Trug is the most popular (£56, truggery.co.uk).

OUT & ABOUTEdulis Nursery is tucked away in a walled garden near Pangbourne in Berkshire. The owner, Paul Barney, is a plant hunter and nurseryman who searches out, selects and grows an eclectic mix of rare plants, including unusual edible varieties. Most of the plants for sale are hardy and relatively easy to grow (edulis.co.uk).

Everything you need to know to get the most from your plot in JuneWORDS BY STEPHANIE DONALDSON

and topsoil. The idea is that, as the lower parts break down, they provide a perfect home for all the organisms needed for healthy soil, retain moisture and slowly release nutrients. It’s also a great way of filling new raised beds without importing huge amounts of compost. When my vegetable plot was re-landscaped last year, I used this method on some raised beds. There is some settling, but the regular addition of homemade compost and leafmould will build it to the ideal height. I’m also taking advantage of the low soil level in one bed to do some straw-bale gardening, guided by Straw Bale Gardens Complete by Joel Karsten (Cool Springs Press, £15.99). Follow my continuing experimentation at theenduringgardener.com.

THIS MONTH...I try to recycle as much as I can in the garden – shredding, composting, mulching and re-using. Until recently, larger branches have been a bit problematic – there’s a limit to how much rustic path edging I need – but now that I have embraced hugelkultur, they’ve become a precious resource. This is a permaculture technique for creating raised beds with layers of organic materials, starting with the coarsest at the bottom (the logs) and building up layers with thinner branches, then twigs and other garden litter, followed by composted manure

WHAT TO DOIn the greenhouse

Keep the greenhouse well-ventilated. Move any remaining over-wintered

plants outdoors. Sow rocket, basil and coriander.

In the garden Stake dahlias with sturdy supports

when planting them out. Thin fruit on apples and pears

where the crop is heavy. Dead-head roses and border

flowers regularly to encourage more blooms.

On the allotment Transplant young

brassicas and leeks.

Plant out tomatoes in the sunniest

spot. Protect ripening

strawberries with netting.

Sow maincrop carrots.

BUY WISELY

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PICK OF THE SHRUBSCrinodendron hookerianum

As with other aspects of life, gardening is making use of new technology to help us become more efficient and less wasteful. Hozelock’s new Cloud Controller allows you to manage watering remotely with equipment operated via an easy- to-install and equally easy-to-understand

app. It can even suggest changes to times based on local weather data. Holiday watering has just got a lot simpler (£114.99, hozelock.com).

Water power

FLORAL FAVOURITEThere is an ethereal beauty to the taller varieties of nicotianas that

makes them a delightful addition to summer borders and large containers. One of the loveliest is Nicotiana mutabilis, with blooms

that fade from deep pink to white, but it can be quite tricky. Nicotiana ‘Whisper Mixed’ is a more robust substitute. It’s an F1 hybrid, so is more

vigorous, disease resistant and easier to grow, and flowers from July until October. You can buy plug plants from sarahraven.com (five for

£5.95 or ten for £8.95) or seed is available at £2.50 per packet.

Take a seat

Tip: avoid having to empty slug traps by using paper cups and filling them with soil once their work is done

Are you sitting comfortably while enjoying the good weather in your garden? If not, you might be tempted by the acacia and weave bench. This classic high-backed design is elegant and stylish, with a soft-weave poly-rattan seat and back that looks and feels like natural rattan. The FSC-certified acacia wood has been crafted to expose the grain to give it a vintage feel and there are carved details on the arms. The wicker is weather resistant and the wood has been treated with sealant, but the bench

EVENT Grow London – the contemporary garden fair – takes place on 24-26 June on Hampstead Heath (growlondon.com).

WHY? Also known as the Chilean lantern tree, this beautiful ornamental evergreen bears fleshy, lantern-shaped crimson to deep carmine-pink flowers, suspended from the undersides of its branches from May through to August.WHERE? It’s perfect for a cool, partially shady woodland garden with humus-rich acid soil, where it will initially grow slowly but eventually make a large and attractive shrub. It grows well in a moist but well-drained acidic soil in a sheltered position in sun or partial shade.BEWARE Although hardy to -10°C, in cold areas it’s best grown in a cool greenhouse or conservatory to minimise the risk of frost damage to the young flowerbuds.

should not be left outdoors in prolonged bad weather (£325, coxandcox.co.uk).

In her seasonal series, Elizabeth Harbour shows how to create a collection

of beautiful handmade decorative pieces, each with its own

original charmTHIS MONTH:

SUMMER MAKES

DESIGNS AND PROJECTS BY ELIZABETH HARBOUR STYLING BY BEN KENDRICK

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RACHEL WHITING

CRAFT IDEAS

to inspire


DAISY TRAY CLOTHCreate your own pretty table linen with a simple hand-painted design.

YOU WILL NEEDnewspaper50cm pale-coloured linenSetacolor fabric paint, from pullingers.com, or Dylon fabric paint, from hobbycraft.co.uk. Used here is white (flowers), green and yellow mixed (stem) and yellow with a fleck of red (centre)Daler Rowney No8 round paintbrush old plate for mixing coloursheets of coloured papermasking tape

1 Cover a flat worksurface with newspaper.

2 Cut a piece of the fabric to the size of a tea towel (roughly 70cm x 50cm) and iron it flat.

3 Using the white paint and paintbrush, practise painting petals on a piece of paper by pressing down the brush – make sure

the tip faces outwards from the centre.

4 Try painting single petals, then a circle of petals and then several circles of petals. The daisies shown here are at a half-drop repeat. Once you feel confident, move onto the fabric.

5 Use masking tape to stick the corners of the cloth to the newspaper to secure it while you are painting.

6 Paint the daisies on the cloth and leave to dry.

7 For the flower centres, use the tip of the brush to dab small dots in the middle of the petals. For the stem, run the tip of the brush downwards in one action to create a curved shape. Repeat for every flower and leave to dry. Follow the instructions for fixing fabric paint.

8 Sew a hem along all the edges of the cloth and add a hanging loop with the excess fabric if desired.

9 The cloth can be gently handwashed.

C R A F T


PASTE PAPERSThese homemade designs are great for wrapping presents, lining cupboards or for covering books.

YOU WILL NEEDbox of cornfloursmall saucepan and wooden spoonacrylic paintold plate for mixing colourplastic tableclothsheets of smooth-surface paperspongebowl of water 5cm-wide hog-hair paintbrushvarious-width straight-edged combsfour-sided grout spreaderclothes airer

1 To make the paste, mix together 6 level tbsp of cornflour with 700ml of cold water in a saucepan and stir until the cornflour has dissolved.

2 Gently heat up the mixture on a low heat until it is the consistency of custard. If it becomes too thick, stir in a little hot water.

3 Remove from the heat and allow to cool, stirring every so often to prevent a skin from forming.

4 Once cool, mix together 4 tbsp of paste (from the saucepan) with 4 tbsp of acrylic paint (one colour).

5 Cover a flat worksurface with a plastic wipe-clean tablecloth and place a sheet of paper on top.

6 Immerse a sponge in cold water, squeezing out any excess, then gently wipe the sponge over one side of the paper. Be careful to dampen the paper evenly but not to flood it.

7 Swiftly apply the mixed coloured solution evenly over the paper with the wide paintbrush and run a comb through the paint to create a pattern immediately afterwards.

8 Repeat on another sheet of paper, experimenting with different patterns by moving the comb (or other utensils such as a grout spreader) in varying directions and with different colours.

9 Once you’ve finished, leave the paper to dry on an airer. Once dry, the process can be repeated again on the same papers to introduce another pattern or colour on top, if wanted.


C R A F T


DRAGONFLY GLASS LANTERNSUse these upcycled jam jars to add a decorative touch and a soft glow to a tabletop indoors or out.

YOU WILL NEEDpencilsheet of cardscissorssticky-back plasticcutting matscalpel or craft knifeBlu Tackglass jam jarsMarabu GlasArt transparent paint, from hobbycraft.co.uk (we used Carmine Red and Light Green)old paintbrush

1 Draw a silhouette of a dragonfly on a piece of card and cut out to make a template. Draw around this on the back of the sticky-back plastic – you will need five dragonflies facing alternate ways for each small lantern.

2 Place the sticky-back plastic on the cutting mat and cut out the dragonflies using a scalpel.*

3 Place small balls of Blu Tack onto the paper side of the sticky-back plastic dragonflies and stick to the glass jar. When you are happy with your arrangement, peel off the paper backing and stick the dragonflies to the jar. Make sure there are no air bubbles or creases and the sticky-back plastic is smooth to the glass.

4 Using one colour of glass paint, evenly stipple over the jam-jar surface with a paintbrush, paying careful attention to the edges of the dragonflies. Leave to dry.

5 For a darker colour, apply a second coat and leave to dry. (Soak the brush in a little cooking oil and wash out with washing-up liquid.)

6 Once the glass paint has dried, carefully peel off the sticky-back plastic dragonflies from the glass using the end of a scalpel.

7 Leave to dry for a few more days before placing a tea light inside and using as a lantern. Alternatively, they make lovely vases.


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DRAGONFLY GLASS LANTERNS See

previous page

Use shimmering jewel-coloured paints

for more effect


C R A F T

this on the back of the sticky-back plastic – you will need six or seven facing alternate ways for one small lampshade.

2 Place the sticky-back plastic on the cutting mat and cut out the birds using a scalpel.* Remember to cut out a small circular eye on each bird.

3 Mix together a small amount of white, crimson, yellow and blue acrylic paint to make a taupe tone. Using a small wide brush, practise making brushstrokes in alternate directions on a sheet of paper. When you are confident with doing this, repeat this action on the lampshade. Leave to dry.

4 Once dry, place a small ball of Blu Tack on the paper side of the sticky-back plastic birds and position them around the lampshade. When

DECORATED LAMPSHADETry this simple paint effect for adding interest and character to a plain table lamp.

YOU WILL NEEDpencilsheets of paper and cardsticky-back plasticcutting matscalpel or craft knifeold plate for mixing colouracrylic paint (we used Lemon Yellow, Crimson, Cobalt Blue and White)Royal & Langnickel flat brush set with white bristles and short handles, from amazon.co.ukjam jar Blu Tack25cm smooth silk-effect fabric coolie lampshadelarge round stencil brush

1 Draw a silhouette of a swallow on a piece of card and cut out to make a template. Draw around

you are happy with the arrangement, peel off the paper and stick in place, again smoothing out any air bubbles or creases.

5 Mix together another batch of taupe colour, adding a little more blue to make a darker shade, and stipple over the lampshade with the end of the paintbrush, paying particular attention to the edges and eyes of the birds.

6 Once you have an even covering, but can still see the brushstrokes underneath, leave to dry.

7 Using the round stencil brush and the white paint, press the end of the brush in 2cm intervals to make spots around the base of the shade.

8 Carefully peel off the sticky-back plastic birds from the shade using the end of a scalpel.

9 Attach the lampshade to a lamp base.


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92 JUNE 2016

Printmaker, illustrator, designer

and crafter Elizabeth lives with her

husband Llewellyn, 16-year-old daughter Esme and 13-year-old

son Samuel in a Georgian house in

Wateringbury, Kent. She runs courses

from her village hall and local galleries, including Mascalls

Gallery and National

Trust’s Monk’s House. For more details, visit

elizabethharbour.co.uk, where you

will also find a selection of her

handmade pieces to buy.

ELIZABETH HARBOUR

DECORATED LAMPSHADE See previous page

C R A F T

Subscribe to the digital edition of Country Living magazine and escape into an appealing world of rural beauty and tranquillity. You’ll find a wealth of ideas for your home and garden, learn about traditional crafts, discover inspiring rural businesses

and enjoy irresistible recipes using seasonal produce.

For when your heart is in the country

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Amanda Saurin harnesses the power of the flowers and plants grown in her East Sussex

distilling garden to create her carefully crafted beauty products

WORDS BY EMMA PRITCHARD PHOTOGRAPHS BY EMMA LEE

bloomIn full

realised that what they were using was chemical laden. The brands all claimed to banish wrinkles but didn’t seem to care about improving skin quality. So I macerated some garden herbs and plants that are traditionally known to be beneficial into a balm.” Amanda soon realised that to create products of the standard she was hoping for, she’d have to make them from scratch. “I started playing with shop-bought essential oils and, although they were OK, they were nothing special,” she says. “I then spent some time in Cyprus and was introduced to the art of distilling – once you know how to make your own oils and floral waters, nothing else compares.”

It didn’t take long for Amanda’s customers to recognise the benefits of this approach. “See how my camomile oil is an intense blue,” she says, referring to a glass bottle filled with inky-coloured liquid. “That means it has high levels of

IT’S IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO FEEL CALM in the presence of the founder of the A.S Apothecary. It could be the gentle tone of Amanda Saurin’s voice, or perhaps it’s the beautiful garden and views over the South Downs that surround her workshop on an organic farm in the East Sussex village of Plumpton. But most likely it’s caused by the aromatic blend of lavender, clary sage and camomile – all ingredients in Amanda’s natural and handmade skincare products – that wafts through the air.

Although qualified as a lawyer, Amanda made the unusual decision to train as a homeopath and herbalist 20 years ago. “I found working in law crushingly dull and stressful – the polar opposite of the tranquillity I experience now,” she says. After practising homeopathy for ten years, she began to experiment with creating her own beauty products: “I was treating a lot of women with skin complaints such as eczema and psoriasis, and


RU R A L A RT I S A N

chamazulene, an anti-inflammatory. I know that, because I planted the seeds, tended the plants, ensured the flowers were picked at the right time and distilled them in the best way possible.”

Today, it’s all about roses. Amanda and her team (which includes her daughter Bella, plus volunteers Kate, Emily and Julie) have spent a June morning gathering flowerheads from the 200 bushes on her plot, as well as at Glyndebourne, where she was granted permission to pick in 2012 in return for making an exclusive range of products for the famous Sussex opera house. They must now remove every petal before placing them on large bed-like racks suspended from the workshop’s beamed ceiling. “Roses produce a better oil and fragrance if you leave them to wilt for 24 hours before distilling,” Amanda explains. “We also remove the leaves and stalks because they can taint the end result.” The sight of petals from around 500 roses laid out in a deep blanket of blush pinks, fuchsias, corals and crimsons is arresting, as is the delicate, sweet aroma that hangs heavy in the air during this stage in the process.

When they’re ready, the flowers will go into a 200-litre copper still (copper, according to Amanda, produces a sweeter oil and water than stainless steel), where they will be heated in a water bath for between 15 and 18 hours: “Many distillers work by temperature but I find sound is a more reliable measure – if the water is bubbling too violently, I cool the temperature down. If it’s too quiet, I heat it up. The goal is a gentle swishing tumble.” This mindful approach is evident in every stage of Amanda’s

THIS PAGE In the beautiful rose gardens at Glyndebourne in June, Amanda picks fragrant flowerheads, choosing only the most perfect blooms for her

products. Being a small-batch distiller means that she is able to give each oil, cream and balm the greatest care and attention from start to finish


work. There is no rush here over the vast order that’s just come in from a distributor in Hong Kong, no anxiety over the rabbits that are nibbling on some camomile plants outside. Each product takes as long as it needs – and, fortunately for Amanda, her customers share her ethos for ‘slow beauty’ and are happy to wait.

“It’s a labour-intensive way of working,” Amanda says. “I grow as many of the ingredients as I can, distill them for their essential oils and flower waters, and then combine them to make products that nurture the skin and the soul. One order can take weeks to complete.” Ingredients such as clary sage, eschscholzia and arnica are all ones that you can find on Amanda’s plot. Some, such as chickweed and goose grass, she harvests from around the farm or on countryside drives with her family: “I’m always shouting, ‘Stop the car!’”

After the petals are distilled, the lighter essential oil separates from the ‘flower water’. These are both used to create Amanda’s facial balms, oils and perfumes. There are now nine scent combinations to choose from, including those in the First Aid Kit range. “#22 is great for combating colds, #12 for calming troubled minds and #11 for soothing bites and stings,” she explains. Luckily

she has never had to look far for support. Just a few months after founding the brand in 2014, she was contacted by Marissa Bourke, creative director of Harper’s Bazaar, who, having tried the products, asked if she could design Amanda’s packaging, photographer Emma Lee was keen to take pictures and William Vincent, a horticulturist, has helped to manage the plot. “We’ve never done any marketing – people just find us. I think social media has changed the way we all work,” Amanda says. As a result, she has grown the business, which required minimal start-up costs, organically.

She is also often asked to work on nationwide collaborations. There’s the sugar kelp aromatic water that she produces to complement the Isle of Harris Distillers’ artisan gin, which involves a week-long picking trip to the island each year; the tea-infused soaps she creates for Lewes tea connoisseur Pauline Maniere; and, of course, the Glyndebourne roses. “They’re my favourite, really,” Amanda says, glancing outside at the blooms. “Ever since I was a child, and smashed up petals in a jam jar with water to make my own ‘perfume’, I’ve been captivated by them. If I’m ever having a hard day, I just go and walk among the rose beds and I soon feel soothed, balanced and re-inspired.”

For more details on the A.S Apothecary range and Amanda’s perfume workshops, visit asapoth.com. CL readers can enjoy 20 per cent off cleansing oils or face creams by entering the code CLJUNE when ordering online before 30 June 2016.

“Essential oils and flower waters are combined to nurture the skin and the soul”

THIS PAGE The distillation process is very slow and gentle – after wilted petals have been added to the retort (the large copper pot) and

simmered for days, liquid drips into the glass separator, resulting in flower water in one bottle and the precious essential oil in the other

RU R A L A RT I S A N


Inspired use of space and an eye-catching mix of characterful furnishings and appealing accessories has turned a cramped

Georgian cottage in rural Berkshire into a welcoming family homeSTYLING AND WORDS BY LAURA VINE PHOTOGRAPHS BY CATHERINE GRATWICKE

I N T E R I O R S

JUNE 2016 105

hen Jules and Ben Covey decided the time had come to move out of London after the birth of their

third child, there was only one direction for them to head in. The call of the West Country was strong as

Jules grew up in Cornwall and Ben in Somerset, so they wanted to find somewhere closer to their families but still near enough to London for Ben to commute to work. West Berkshire fitted the bill and they came across a potential house near the pretty village of Pangbourne. Although it was a cold, dark January day when they first saw the house in 2012, they had a good feeling about it. “We liked the fact the previous owners had raised their family and lived there for almost 40 years,” Jules explains. “We looked at other places that had been done up but not in our style so it was a relief to find somewhere that genuinely needed updating.”

Originally built in 1810 as a two-up, two-down cottage for the rabbit catcher on the local estate, an extension had been added in the 1970s but the Coveys knew they would have to do quite a bit of work to create their dream home. They moved in a few months later when Luella was five, Woody three and Ludo just a tiny baby, and Jules remembers her heart sinking at the size of the task ahead of them. Sensibly, they lived

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT A cupboard painted a bold yellow brightens a corner of the playroom; the rustic shelf and peg rail in the kitchen provides stylish storage for cups and bowls; handsome Shaker-style units made by a

local carpenter are teamed with industrial light fittings and accessories to great effect OPPOSITE Light fills the dining area where a pretty floral cloth and antique bench complement a table and chairs that belonged to Jules’s grandparents

I N T E R I O R S


instant country character. The oak dining table that belonged to her grandparents was originally very dark but Jules had it professionally limed, along with its six matching chairs, to lighten the wood so they would work with the look of the kitchen.

At mealtimes, the family has a lovely view of the garden dominated by a beautiful old apple tree from the days when it was an orchard, through large bi-fold doors. Replacing all of the windows bar two was no mean feat but, as Jules says, “There are so many on all sides that the light is wonderful throughout the day – it flows around the house, so it was worth the investment.” This abundance of light meant she felt she could be more adventurous with colour. The walls in their previous house were all painted white but here each room has different combinations, mostly greyish greens and blues, with the darker colours used for the woodwork so doorframes, skirtings, shelves and mantelpieces stand out stylishly.

After the major upheaval of the kitchen and extensive replumbing and rewiring elsewhere, the Coveys worked their way round the rest of the house more gradually, putting back some of the character by reinstating fireplaces and adding tongue-and-groove panelling. Inspired by an original section they found in Luella’s bedroom, this now appears in almost every room – on walls and sometimes ceilings, with the painted planks running vertically and horizontally. It gives a strong coastal feel, which

there for a whole year to get the feel of the house before starting on the transformation. The cramped kitchen, with its beige Formica cabinets with red plastic handles and a gas cooker that lit with an alarming eyebrow-singeing ‘woof ’, was absolutely the first priority. The extension had given the house an L-shaped footprint, so the Coveys created a generous new kitchen with a dining area by filling in the space to make a square. The build took six months, three months of which involved managing on a makeshift camp kitchen in the hall, but it was well worth the wait.

The new room has a loft-like feel with a high pitched-glass roof that lets the light stream in. A local joiner made the greyish-blue Shaker-style cupboards with bleached oak worktops, which sit next to a white Aga – a practical choice, as it warms up the north-facing kitchen wonderfully. Jules has cleverly used old materials such as beautiful reclaimed oak floorboards, and blinds and cushions made from vintage grain sacks to introduce

THIS PAGE, ABOVE LEFT Ludo and Woody play games at the table, which is positioned by large bi-fold doors that open onto the garden ABOVE RIGHT A vibrant striped rug from Odd

picks up on the fuchsia-pink velvet upholstery of an elegant antique sofa in the sitting room OPPOSITE An old school desk and assortment of vintage toys bring character to the playroom


I N T E R I O R S

is appropriate because Jules grew up by the sea and Ben is a keen kite-surfer so they enjoy spending a lot of time on beaches. Collections of shells from annual holidays on Anglesey fill two glass demi-johns that have been turned into lampbases in the sitting room to display them.

Shells are just one of the things Jules has been picking up since she was young – she also has a weakness for buttons, ribbons and assorted vintage bits and pieces, especially rose-pattern china. Some of this is on show, along with other treasures, on the mantelpiece, which frames a log-burning stove. “I come from a long line of collectors and homemakers. We have a strong nesting instinct and cosiness is in our genes,” she says. Family is hugely important to Jules – it gives her great pleasure to use inherited pieces and these are mixed with vintage finds from Ardingly and Kempton Park markets and complemented by eye-catching, colourful rugs, fabrics and cushions from Odd – a quirky furnishings company run by her aunt and uncle.

In the sitting room, bright striped rugs and cushions liven up the restful grey-green scheme, picking up on the colour of an elegant antique sofa reupholstered in a fuchsia-pink velvet by Designers Guild. One of their pretty florals was used for the curtains and a neutral wool plaid for another sofa. Although a bit unconventional, Jules has always loved mixing stripes with florals and checks, and upstairs, the same striking combinations of patterns and colours can be found in Luella’s pretty bedroom, with its Calamine-pink walls, floral quilt made by Jules’s mother, blind and checked lampshade. In contrast, the boys’ room has curtains and an armchair in a subtle plaid. Cool bunk beds, built into the eaves and painted a soft blue, are a recent project and source of great excitement for Woody and Ludo, with cubbyholes at each end for bedside lights and favourite toys.

After three years of hard work, the Coveys have made their mark on the house, transforming it into the perfect place to bring up their family, just like the previous residents.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Walls in soft Calamine pink by Farrow & Ball provide a perfect backdrop for eclectic accessories in Luella’s bedroom; custom-made bunk beds in the boys’ room have plenty of built-in shelving and

alcoves for keeping favourite toys and books close to hand; a headboard in a bold stripe by Cabbages & Roses makes a bold statement in a guest room OPPOSITE A floral blind adds pretty colour to the soft grey- green scheme in the bathroom

I N T E R I O R S


A British couple have created a glorious garden and thriving nursery in the Loire Valley, drawing on a shared

passion for drought-resistant varieties to provide distinctive colour and eye-catching impact

WORDS BY STEPHANIE DONALDSON PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALLAN POLLOCK MORRIS

112 JUNE 2016

ighteen years ago David and Bella Gordon were living in London and working for the BBC. They

had a good-sized garden, where they spent every spare moment and often talked about turning their

love of gardening into a business when they retired. “Then,” David says,“we thought, ‘Why wait until then? Let’s do it now while we’ve still got the energy’.”

They looked for a nursery in the south-west of England, but didn’t find anything suitable, so their focus turned to France. “The Angers region of the Loire Valley, where we now live, is the epicentre of French horticulture,” David explains. “After arriving, we settled in and started quietly sowing seeds and propagating from the stock plants that we brought from our garden – and then we took them to plant fairs. We were determined to be part of the community and soon realised that if we wanted to sell our plants we must do so in French, so we now speak it in our working life with a touch of ‘Fringlish’ for technical terms.” David and Bella decided to call their

nursery Plantagenêt Plantes after the Kings of England who were also the Counts of Anjou.

There were minor hiccups along the way, including the time that their daughter Beth (then aged 18 months) helpfully swapped all the labels on the hellebores, but gradually they began to establish a backbone of perennial plants that suited the climate. Their presence at plant fairs led to contact with Domaine de Chaumont, the venue for the highly regarded International Garden Festival: “We were asked to run training courses there for professional gardeners, teaching our style of using perennials – and this in turn led to contact with the designers.” They soon realised that French horticultural training was all about the hard landscaping. “A paysagiste learns primarily how to construct walls, lay paths and make

THIS PICTURE Herbaceous perennials, trees and shrubs with contrasting shapes,

textures and colours draw the eye across the garden towards the pale stone house

G A R D E N I N G

SIX PLANTS FOR DRY GARDENS

Erigeron glaucus ‘Sea Breeze’ Spreading blue-grey leaves and striking lavender-pink daisy-like flowers

Dianthus carthusianorum Grassy foliage with clusters of magenta-pink flowers on tall, wiry stems

Phlomis ‘E A Bowles’ (syn. P. ‘Edward Bowles’) Downy heart-shaped leaves and whorls of sulphur-yellow flowers

Geranium cantabrigiense ‘Biokova’ Low, spreading cushions of green, smothered with pink-veined white flowers

Kniphofia ‘Shining Sceptre’ Glowing spires of golden orange flowers above spiky foliage

Salvia nemorosa ‘Ostfriesland’ Violet-blue flowers from summer through to autumn – all salvias thrive in dry conditions

swimming pools,” David explains. “The plants are a secondary consideration, so we saw there was an opportunity for us to help them expand their knowledge. You tend to see the same things planted everywhere.” As a result, Bella and David now train their own apprentices to work with them in the nursery and on their design projects, giving them a thorough grounding in horticulture.

“We go from A-Z through the process – sowing seed, taking cuttings, making divisions and growing the plants to maturity, as well as garden design, planting and maintenance,” David says. Each year they grow 100,000 plants – 750 varieties of perennials, grasses and drought-resistant shrubs – a big range of hardworking plants. “And we raise the plants slowly, which

OPPOSITE Dense plantings of lilies, red-hot pokers and red valerian create a striking display THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Kniphofia ‘Shining

Sceptre’; Erigeron glaucus ‘Sea Breeze’; Salvia microphylla ‘Ribambelle’; Acanthus mollis; Nigella damascena; delicate Dianthus carthusianorum

benefits them in the long term,” he adds. “We try to produce in an ecological way with no systemic treatments and use several natural products for plant health.” Rainwater is saved from the roofs and pumped from the well into old wine cisterns, although they now have a borehole because the well is unreliable in drought years.

The range of plants they grow has changed to those that don’t need any watering once they are established. This meant their business really took off when France was hit by severe droughts from 2003-2005 and municipalities had to give up thirsty annuals and turn to perennials. “We were well-positioned to offer an alternative to water-wasting hanging baskets,” David says. “A less predictable climate means that everyone is having to rethink how they garden and things are changing as they become more environmentally aware – but at the same time their outdoor spaces are getting smaller and smaller.” The vast majority of their customers are French – mainly designers, local communes and towns – but their increasingly important design service

Paths wind through head-high plants that are buzzing with insect life

G A R D E N I N G


has attracted British second-home owners, too: “And we have an open day twice a year when about 500 retail customers turn up.”

Bella and David’s own garden at the front of their house is ample proof that a dry garden is no dusty compromise. It is abundantly planted with a rich diversity, such as ground-hugging erigerons, thymes, dianthus and hardy geraniums weaving around grasses, and drought-tolerant shrubs that include box, sambucus, Bupleurum fruticosum and phlomis. The rounded shapes of the shrubs contrast with the spiky flowerheads of salvias, acanthus and kniphofias and the towering spires of eremurus that erupt from among the other plants. An undulating line of salvaged slate posts – rescued from

vineyards where they were once used to support the vines – creates an informal fence. Beyond the garden is the ‘prairie’ – previously a field – but now densely planted with thriving perennials and grasses that have never been watered. Paths wind through the head-high plants, immersing the visitor in an environment that buzzes with insect life. The entire area is cut down in spring, the foliage chopped into short lengths and returned to the ground as a mulch.

The couple describe themselves as self-taught designers. “Over the years we have gained an awful lot of knowledge and a critical eye. Plants are our palette and we consider them interchangeable if they are the right shape and colour,” David says. “The big advantage we have is the French perception that the English have a natural talent for gardening.” This has helped Bella and David grow themselves a successful business in their adopted country, and, as far as Plantagenet Plantes is concerned, the motto is very much vive la difference.

For details of opening times, visit plantagenetplantes.com.

“A less predictable climate means everyone is having to rethink how they garden”

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Bright lichen covers old slate posts salvaged from vineyards; Centaurea pulcherrima; Helianthemum

‘Henfield Brilliant’; Phlomis russeliana; Centranthus ruber ‘Albus’; Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’ OPPOSITE The stunning flowers of Clematis ’Arabella’

G A R D E N I N G


A stylish selection of salvaged materials and upcycled furnishings has been used by ceramicist Mouse Martin to transform an

18th-century cart lodge into a unique retreat in the CotswoldsWORDS BY ALEX REECE STYLING BY BEN KENDRICK PHOTOGRAPHS BY RACHEL WHITING

GOING WITH THE

f low


OPPOSITE The unusual property is situated on a grassy spit in a fork of the River Churn THIS PAGE French doors open from the sitting room onto a small riverside terrace

I N T E R I ORS

verything here is either upcycled, recycled or handmade,” says Mouse Martin of her thoroughly

unusual island property in the Cotswold village of South Cerney in Gloucestershire. A former cart lodge, dating back to 1750, Draycott stands on

a grassy spit in the River Churn (a tributary of the Thames), accessed via a humpback bridge and shaded by a sycamore tree. Ducks and otters often swim by – and even a kingfisher can sometimes be seen darting over the water. For a decade now, this idyllic scene has been the view from Mouse’s kitchen window – she has lived in the cottage opposite since leaving London in summer 2005. So when Draycott unexpectedly came up for sale last spring, Mouse was determined to make the island her own. “At nine o’clock on the Monday morning, I put my offer in to the agent, and by 11 o’clock the owner had accepted it. So it had only been on the market for a few hours!” she says.

After picking up the keys in July 2014, Mouse – a ceramicist, photographer and cook – set to work restoring a sense of history to the characterful property, whose Cotswold stone walls are two feet thick. Converted into a dwelling in the early 1970s, the 35 foot by 10 foot space had been divided into four small separate rooms (a bedroom, kitchen, sitting room and bathroom), linked by a corridor on one side. Mouse’s vision from the outset was to create an open-plan living/kitchen/dining area – adding height by removing the ceiling – and to link the property more fluidly to the outside space. To achieve this, she enlisted the help of Devon builder Colin Weeks and his team, who had done some work on her father’s farm, and Matt Edwards of Cotswold Architects in Cirencester.

Her ideas cleared planning without a hitch, but before the scheme could begin, Mouse did some preparatory work on the mill stream, which runs to one side of the property. With the

THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE The striking corrugated-steel feature wall in the kitchen was inspired by outbuildings in Australia where Mouse (above)spends a lot of time. Her own

simple, stylish ceramics are in daily use and stored in vintage metal wine crates that serve as shelving, while old fire buckets from a junk shop have been repurposed as lampshades

I N T E R I O R S


“Everything here is either upcycled,

recycled or handmade”

THIS PAGE An old Belfast sink, which Mouse re-enamelled herself, and the sofa were both finds from the local tip. A large vintage-style clock by Cox & Cox

makes a striking decorative and practical focal point OPPOSITE Jack Russell terrier Maisi in the ‘outdoor room’ created by the new porch with its river view


I N T E R I O RS

approval of the Environment Agency, she cleared out vegetation to improve its flow, and planted indigenous grasses on the ‘nose’ of the island to maintain the habitat for wildlife. She also had two dry-stone walls built on either side of the spit to protect against flooding. Initial work to the unlisted building involved installing wooden windows, lifting the ceiling up to the rafters and moving the door to the back. The new porch was built using reclaimed oak, and re-roofed with old Cotswold slate by a sixth-generation tiler from the next village. It now provides shelter and an ‘outdoor room’, affording views of the fork in the river and the bridge beyond.

Serendipity went on to inform much of the interior design: “Everything found me – that was the most amazing part of it,” Mouse says. Her guiding ethos was simply that all the features should be from the past, like the building itself. What followed was a series of ‘lightbulb moments’ – the first of which occurred when she was invited to scout round her neighbour’s barn, which had been used for storage, and she chanced upon a Victorian mangle, now re-purposed as the dining table. Here, too, were stacks of vintage doors, which Mouse has sanded lightly and re-used for the kitchen cupboards, beautifully built by fellow villager and retired carpenter Andy Beard. In another flash of genius, she came across an Industrial Revolution-era cartwheel on the side of the road in Devon, and decided to make it into a window, allowing light to flow through the regulation ‘fire wall’ between the living and sleeping areas, and making a clever visual reference to the cart shed’s original use. The corrugated-steel cladding on this wall

and the kitchen splashback is Mouse’s ‘homage’ to the outbuildings of Australia, where she often spends time on holiday.

An apple ladder – also from the neighbour’s barn – leads from the bedroom to the mezzanine, a perfect place for guests to store luggage. Mouse rents out Draycott when she is away, and its distinctive look and romantic location are hugely attractive to couples. She also runs a ceramics business – Made by Hands – based in a studio in her back garden, where she crafts slip-cast and hand-moulded pieces in pale porcelain or dark, textural stoneware. Her signature ‘Mouse’ tableware is decorated by her artist niece, Milla Eastwood. “I have a perfect life!” Mouse laughs. “I walk ten paces to work on one side of my house, and 40 paces to my other work on the opposite side. And I live in this lovely village – you name it, I’ve got it all here on my doorstep.”

When the building work was done, she invited the whole village to a party at the island, which went on late into the evening, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Having caught the house- renovating bug, Mouse says she would jump at the chance of another project – although it’s unlikely to be as close to home as this one.

Draycott is available to let through uniquehomestays.com – search under ‘Filly Island’. For Mouse Martin’s ceramics and photography, see made-by-hands.co.uk.

Enjoy house features in CL’s free weekly newsletter. To sign up, text CL to 84499 followed by your email address.*

The guiding ethos for the design was that all the features should be from the past

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OPPOSITE, FROM FAR LEFT Vintage fittings and accessories bring character to the bathroom; an old apple ladder leads from

the bedroom to the mezzanine THIS PAGE The eye-catching bedspread was made from a vintage Union Jack ensign


Continuing our series profiling horticultural devotees whose lives are shaped by their love of one species of plant, we meet English rose breeder and expert David Austin and his collaborator Carl Bennett

at David Austin Roses nursery in Albrighton, ShropshireWORDS BY STEPHANIE DONALDSON PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICHARD BLOOM

thepassionate gardeners


G A R D E N I N G

What are your earliest gardening memories?David Austin: I had my own little plot at my grandmother’s house (where I now live). Her gardener was one of the ‘old school’ and very good – he seldom spoke to me but occasionally would tell me to hold out my hands and pour a little of the seed he was sowing at the timeinto them. I grew a wide range of fruit andvegetables but no roses.Carl Bennett: My grandfather was a very keen plantsman who showed fruit and vegetablescompetitively. When I was about ten years old, he gave me bedding plants to create my own garden, which I tended with great care and pride.How did your interest in roses develop?DA: In my teens I was intrigued by plantbreeding and looked for something I could

do in that sort of line. I remember getting a catalogue from a nursery that specialised in old roses and I could see immediately that, compared with the modern varieties of the time, they were more beautiful – and I was aware that they were also more fragrant. I bought some and came to the conclusion that if we could cross them with hybrid teas and floribundas, we might getsomething superior to them both. I thoughtthey might appeal to many gardeners in this country but never imagined that they would gain worldwide popularity.CB: I’ve always been passionate about plants and nature but my interest in roses grew whenI came to work at the nursery straight fromschool, 25 years ago. I was fascinated by THIS PAGE Fragrant pink

Rosa ‘Princess Anne’

G A R D E N I N G


their beauty and, after a year, I started working in the breeding department. David is now 90 but we still work closely together.What are the most appealing qualities of English roses?DA: Beauty and charm in flower and growth, and a lovely fragrance. We are always looking for ways to improve the health and vigour of our varieties because they must grow well if they are to do their job properly.CB: Glorious flowers and pleasing, shapely form are the most important qualities, followed closely by a wonderful scent. Disease resistance is a more practical necessity.Does your appreciation of different rose fragrances coincide?DA: Scent is very much a matter of personal

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Petals are pulled from the flower head of a rose to expose its stamens, which are also removed prior to pollinating in order to prevent self-fertilisation. Pollen that has been collected from another rose is then carefully brushed onto the flower head. The cross-pollinated plant is labelled with a unique code.Successful crosses will form plump, ripe hips, which are harvested for their seed from which the next generation of roses will be grown

taste but, like most people, we agree that the true ‘old rose’ fragrance is the loveliest of all.What are the ideal conditions for roses?DA: A good soil enriched with well-rotted compost or manure in a sunny position (at least four hours of sunlight a day) and not too much competition from other plants and trees. Allow a metre distance from plants of other varieties and, if you are putting in groups of three roses (for added impact), allow 50cm between the plants. If the soil is limey, it is better to replace it where the roses will be growing.What is your advice regarding the problem of ‘rose sickness’?DA: This is not properly understood, but new roses do not grow well where others have been grown previously. It is better to plant them in

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130 JUNE 2016

THIS PICTURE A glorious display of roses in the nursery’s Renaissance Garden

G A R D E N I N G


another part of the garden or replace the soil.Do you prefer to plant bare-root roses?DA: They do establish more quickly but pot-grown roses have the advantage that they can be planted at any time of the year. Mycorrhizal fungi is beneficial when planting.Do you recommend deadheading for extended flowering?DA: Yes – this and a general tidying up of the shrub is very important and will mean it goes on to provide better flowers later.How should English roses be pruned?DA: They should be cut back by about half to three-quarters in late winter in mild areas, later in cold regions. They should only be lightly thinned, including removing dead and spent wood, and then trimmed to a nice shape. Mulch with well-rotted manure in early spring.

For information on David Austin Roses, call 01902 376300 or visit davidaustinroses.com.

Enjoy garden features, top tips and more in CL’s free weekly newsletter. To sign up, text CL to 84499 followed by your email address.*

DAVID AUSTIN’S FIVE FAVOURITE ROSES

‘Graham Thomas’ Voted the best rose in the world

by 41 National Rose Societies; medium-size cup-shaped

flowers in a rich, pure yellow; strong tea-rose fragrance;

upright, bushy and vigorous; 125cm x 125cm, or up to

3 metres as a climber

‘Olivia Rose Austin’ The best all-round rose we have bred to date; soft pink cupped rosettes with a distinctly fruity

fragrance; exceptionally vigorous with dark green foliage;

flowers three times annually; will reach 100cm x 90cm

‘Scarborough Fair’ One of the most beautiful

with cupped flowers in soft pure pink; light, musky old

rose scent; healthy, tough and reliable; likely to grow

to 80cm x 60cm

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Rosa ‘A

Shropshire Lad’

‘Munstead Wood’ Our most successful red so far – good ones are hard to breed; velvety crimson blooms that

open as deep cups and become shallower; exceptional strong,

warm, fruity old-rose fragrance; good disease resistance;

100cm x 75cm

‘A Shropshire Lad’ Probably our top climber;

slightly cupped rosette flowers in a soft, peachy pink; strong, very fruity tea-rose fragrance;

vigorous, very healthy and almost thornless; will reach

up to 2.5 metres

THE PROOF

PUDDINGof the

Celebrate the best of the season’s flavours by using fresh fruit and flowers in these delectable desserts

RECIPES AND FOOD STYLING BY ALISON WALKER PHOTOGRAPHS BY CLARE WINFIELD STYLING BY WEI TANG

250g strawberries1 tbsp chopped mint leavessqueeze of lemon juice300ml Jersey or whole milk4 medium egg yolks125g caster sugar300ml double creamFOR THE MERINGUE4 medium egg whites225g white caster sugar1 tsp cornflour1 tsp white wine vinegar1 tsp vanilla extractwhole strawberries and icing sugar, to decorate

1 Heat the oven to 140°C (120°C fan oven) gas mark 1. Draw three 20cm circles

on baking parchment and use to line 2-3 large baking sheets.

2 For the meringue, whisk the egg whites until stiff. Gradually whisk in the sugar until thick and glossy, followed by the cornflour, vinegar and vanilla.

3 Spread one third of the mixture almost to the edges of one of the circles drawn on the parchment. Repeat with the remaining two.

4 Bake for 45-60 minutes until the meringue is crisp on the outside and peels away easily from the paper. Cool on a wire rack.

5 Blitz the strawberries and mint leaves with a squeeze of lemon juice in a food processor until puréed.

6 Scald the milk until hot but not boiling. Mix the yolks and sugar in a bowl with a pinch of salt. Blend the milk into the mixture.

7 Rinse the pan and pour in the milk and egg mixture. Cook over a medium to low heat, stirring, until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon. Be careful not to overheat or the mixture will curdle.

8 Pass the mixture through a sieve into a chilled bowl. Stir in the strawberry purée. Chill.

9 Churn the strawberry custard and cream together in an electric ice-cream maker according to the

instructions or put in the freezer and beat every two hours until smooth.

10 Dampen a 20cm loose-bottomed round cake tin with water and line with freezerproof clingfilm, allowing it to drape over the sides. Put a meringue in the base, trimming to fit. Spread over half of the ice cream. Cover with a meringue. Carefully spread over the remaining ice cream, then top with the last meringue. Cover with the clingfilm and freeze until solid.

11 Take the meringue cake from the freezer 20 minutes before serving. Remove from the tin, peel away the clingfilm and transfer to a serving plate. Decorate with strawberries and a dusting of icing sugar.

STRAWBERRY MERINGUE ICE-CREAM CAKEPreparation 45 minutes, plus freezing Cooking 1 hour Serves 10-12If you don’t want to make the ice cream from scratch, use 1 litre of a good-quality shop-bought version and soften for 20 minutes before spreading it onto the meringues and freezing.

F O O D & D R I N K


150g plain flour75g cold butter, diced30g caster sugar2 medium egg yolks, beatenFOR THE FRANGIPANE FILLING75g butter, softened75g caster sugar45g self-raising flour50g ground almonds1 medium egg¼ tsp almond extract4-5 large peaches2 tsp redcurrant jelly

1 First make the pastry. Put

the flour into a bowl and rub in the butter until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs, or blitz in a food processor and transfer to a bowl. Stir in the sugar. Stir in the yolks with a flat-bladed knife until the mixture clumps together – add a splash of cold water if necessary. With the tips of your fingers, bring together into a ball. Knead on a lightly floured worksurface until smooth. Flatten into a disc, wrap

in clingfilm and chill for 20 minutes.

2 Line a 3-4cm deep x 23cm diameter loose-bottomed flan tin with the pastry – don’t worry if it tears as you can patch up any holes with leftover pieces of the dough. Prick the base all over with a fork. Chill until cold or pop in the freezer for 10 minutes if you prefer.

3 Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan oven) gas mark 6. Line the pastry with a circle of crumpled baking parchment and a layer of baking beans. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the sides of the pastry have set. Remove the paper and beans, and

continue baking for about 5 minutes until the base feels dry to the touch. Cool.

4 Meanwhile, for the filling, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the flour, almonds, egg and extract until combined. Spread over the base of the pastry case.

5 Halve and de-stone the peaches. Slice and arrange on top of the frangipane. Bake for 30-40 minutes until set.

6 Gently melt the redcurrant jelly in a small pan. While the tart is still warm, brush with the jelly. Serve warm or at room temperature with cream or ice cream.

PEACH AND ALMOND TARTPreparation 35 minutes, plus chilling Cooking about 1 hour Serves 8Peaches and almonds are a winning combination in this mouthwatering dessert.

F O O D & D R I N K

136 JUNE 2016

FOR THE CHOUX PASTRY150g butter, diced200g plain flour, sifted three times6 medium eggs, beatenFOR THE CREME PATISSIERE600ml whole milk4 medium egg yolks110g caster sugar40g plain flour40g cornflour2 tsp rosewater300ml whipping cream, lightly whippedFOR THE CARAMEL500g granulated sugarunsprayed rosebuds, to decorate

1 First, make the pastry puffs. Heat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan oven) gas mark 7. Line 2-3 large baking sheets with parchment.

2 Put the butter and 400ml water in a medium pan. Bring slowly to the boil.

3 Add the flour and beat well with a wooden spoon until the mixture leaves the side of the pan. Spread out onto a plate and leave to cool.

4 Return the mixture to the pan, then gradually beat in the eggs with a wooden spoon or in a mixer on a medium speed.

5 Spoon heaped teaspoons onto the baking sheets. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. With a skewer, make a small hole in the base of each puff and return to the oven for 5 minutes. Cool on a rack.

6 While the puffs are cooking, make the crème pâtissière. Bring the milk to just under the boil. Mix the yolks with the sugar in a bowl. Stir in the flours, then the milk. Return the mixture to the pan and bring to the boil until thick. Stir in the rosewater. Transfer to a

bowl, cover the surface with greaseproof paper and chill.

7 Tip the crème pâtissière into a food processor and whizz until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and fold in the cream. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a plain nozzle.

8 Enlarge the hole in the base of each bun and fill with crème pâtissière. Set aside.

9 Dissolve the sugar in a pan with 100ml water. Wash the sides of the pan with a pastry brush dipped in water to dissolve any stray crystals. Turn up the heat and boil until the sugar turns golden – dip the pan base in cold water to stop it cooking further. Set the pan in a bowl of hot water to keep the caramel liquid.

10 Dip the top half of each bun in the caramel and set on a piece of parchment. When set, dip each bun base into the caramel again and build into a tower around the cone. Decorate with rosebuds and serve within two hours.

ROSE AND CARAMEL CROQUEMBOUCHEPreparation 50 minutes Cooking 40 minutes Serves 10-12Croquembouche sets can be found in good kitchen shops or at alansilverwood.co.uk. Instructions for making cones will also be found online. Serve any leftover buns in a separate dish.

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138 JUNE 2016

125g lavender sugar1 vanilla pod, split and seeds removed200g raspberries 150g blueberries300g strawberries, hulled and halved150g redcurrants1 tbsp apricot brandy (optional)

1 Put the lavender sugar, vanilla pod and seeds in a pan with 300ml water. Heat

slowly until the sugar is dissolved. Turn up the heat and boil for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and leave to infuse until tepid.

2 Put all the fruit into a large shallow dish and pour over the lavender syrup. Leave to infuse for 2 hours, then stir in the apricot brandy if using.

3 Serve the fruit with pouring cream and shortbread biscuits.

LAVENDER AND SUMMER BERRY SALADPreparation 15 minutes, plus infusing Cooking 5 minutes Serves 6Check out local pick-your-own farms for the best – and cheapest – selection of seasonal fruit to make this.

F O O D & D R I N K


150g granulated sugar1 lemongrass stick, finely chopped250g fresh raspberries

1 Put the sugar in a pan with 300ml water and the chopped lemongrass. Heat slowly until the sugar is dissolved. Turn up the heat and boil for 1 minute.

2 Add the raspberries and cook gently for 3-4 minutes until the fruit has softened and released its juices. Set aside to infuse until cold.

3 Push the raspberry mixture through a sieve into a bowl. Discard the

seeds and lemongrass. Chill until cold.

4 Pour into a shallow container – the depth of the liquid should be no more than 2.5cm, so divide between a few containers if necessary.

5 Freeze for 30 minutes, then scrape any frozen mixture into the centre with a fork. Return to the freezer.

6 Repeat every 30 minutes until the mixture is completely frozen and has a grainy texture. Serve immediately in individual dishes.

RASPBERRY AND LEMONGRASS GRANITAPreparation 35 minutes, plus freezing Cooking 5 minutes Serves 4-6Originating in Sicily, a granita is a semi-frozen dessert that is best eaten as soon as it is ready.

F O O D & D R I N K

countryliving.co.uk

GET MORE ONLINEFIND A RECIPE FOR BLUEBERRY, LIME AND COCONUT ROULADE AT COUNTRYLIVING.CO.UK

Gill Meller’sTASTES

of the

SEASONSIn this inspiring series, West Country chef Gill Meller meets his favourite local food

producers, then creates mouthwatering dishes with the ingredients they grow and provide

This month WILD HERBS AND FLOWERSRECIPES AND FOOD STYLING BY GILL MELLER PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANDREW MONTGOMERY

INTERVIEW BY ALEX REECE FOOD AND DRINK EDITOR ALISON WALKER

OPPOSITE Roast wet garlic with beetroot and lovage THIS PAGE Gill collects elderflower heads with medical herbalist Eleanor Gallia, who reaps the nutritious benefits of seasonal native plants


Gill Meller has lived in the west Dorset/east Devon area all his life. As head chef at River Cottage, he has been involved in sourcing sustainable and ethical foods, creating recipes and developing the cookery school, where he also teaches. He

has often appeared alongside Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall in his TV series, and has lately been producing books as an independent food writer. The field-to-fork mentality of good ingredients, simply prepared, is key to his approach and

he has built up relationships with numerous inspiring producers, growers and farmers in his area: “Everything I do hangs on these amazing people,” he says, “and respecting the part they play in the food I cook.”

ate spring is a beautiful time to go out looking for interesting finds from the hedgerows. Now that the change in

temperature is more obvious, and there’s a warmth in the breeze, all the common wild herbs, such as nettle, plantain and sorrel,

are green and lush and in their absolute prime. And if you know how to treat these ingredients in a simple way – by making them into a cordial, for example – you can almost distill the very essence of June to sustain you through the months to come.

This is something I learned while living in a hamlet called Nether Cerne, just north of Dorchester, in 2002. My wife Alice and I were renting a cottage in the Cerne Valley on a farm owned by the Gallia family, and we became friends with medical herbalist Eleanor Gallia, who was born and raised there. After training at Napier’s in Edinburgh, and working in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, she had returned home to establish her practice and herbal dispensary, Nether Cerne Herbs.

Eleanor had such a deep connection with nature and the environment, particularly in this setting – where her late father, Godfrey Gallia, a passionate conservationist, had dug lakes and planted 60 acres of woodland – that I instantly found her intriguing. The cookery I was involved with then wasn’t driven by the seasons or created out of a knowledge of the land – I was still

finding my feet in the food world. But we would go for walks with my Harris hawk (I’ve flown hawks in one way or another since I was ten years old) and her German wire-haired pointer, Hoodlum – the mother of Lochi, pictured here – and she would point out all these incredible herbs to me and how you could use them.

Founded in the old kitchen of the 17th-century farmhouse, Eleanor’s clinic feels a million miles away from a modern-day doctor’s surgery, and to go there and be treated for whatever ailment you’re suffering from is amazing. “Holistic herbal medicine is about encouraging the body back into a place of balance,” says Eleanor, who is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH). She will spend up to two hours with a patient to get an overall picture of that person, before prescribing a course of treatment, which might include tinctures, teas and dietary changes: “The plants all have different actions – they could be astringent, diaphoretic, stimulating or relaxing – and with each situation, I’ll use a different combination of plants.”

Eleanor has always been a proponent of collecting wild plants sustainably, and from spring through to autumn, you’ll rarely find her indoors. She runs herb walks during the growing season and, when we opened the River Cottage Cookery School, she was one of the first people to teach a course, which included a forage for

F O O D & D R I N K


edible plants. This is one of a number of projects that Eleanor and I have worked on over the years (although my family and I no longer live at Nether Cerne, we’ve kept in touch). We also stocked some of her herbal teas in the River Cottage Canteen.

Recently, Eleanor and I went for a walk together around the farm, now run by her brother Edward, and picked a combination of herbs, leaves and flowers to form the basis for the recipes here. Eleanor suggested we make drinks that would have medicinal effects for specific ailments but which were also delicious to drink. She describes the elderflower, yarrow and peppermint cordial as being one of the staples of the herbal world, derived from a Victorian formula used to lower fevers. Instead of sugar, we used honey from Eleanor’s own bees – heating it gently so as not to destroy the beneficial enzymes.

We also made a garden salad with some of the first new potatoes of the year and lavender picked from the walled garden she has developed with her mother into a conservation paradise, with lots of space for wildlife. For the elderflower butter, we gathered clouds of blossom from one of the fields up by the lake – close to the granary farmstead that Eleanor is converting into her new herbal practice.

It was here that we found the sorrel leaves, too, which I chose to partner with the hake. Fish in sorrel sauce is something I cook quite a lot, but it’s also an important herb to Eleanor, who uses it to cool the liver and sharpen the appetite, among other things.

In addition to boosting vitality, the dishes are designed to be a snapshot of the landscape at this highly productive yet fleeting time of year, as spring turns to summer. It shouldn’t be hard to identify the plants used, then have a go at cooking them in ways that retain their nutritional and potentially healing benefits.

To contact Nether Cerne Herbs, call 01300 341750.

2 When the beetroot is cool enough to handle, slip off the skins, cut into wedges if large and transfer to a roasting tray. Add the whole garlic bulbs, thyme stalks, bay and lovage. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and trickle with the oil.

3 Roast in the oven for 35-45 minutes until the garlic is soft and tender and the beetroot is beginning to crisp and blister. Serve with good bread (onto which you can squeeze the soft, sweet garlic) and a sharply dressed green salad.

ROAST WET GARLIC WITH BEETROOT AND LOVAGEPreparation 15 minutes Cooking 1 hour 10 minutes Serves 2Garlic is full of compounds known as allicins, which are said to help to protect against cancer and heart disease, while lovage, one of my all-time favourite herbs, is rich in B-complex vitamins, essential for energy, and vitamin C, which supports skin and immune system health. Sweet and milder wet garlic is harvested young but isn’t hung up to dry.

4 medium beetroot, scrubbed5-6 wet garlic heads1 bunch of fresh thyme8-10 bay leaves1 small bunch of lovage, roughly torn2-3 tbsp olive oil

1 Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan oven) gas mark 6. Put the beetroot in a large pan and cover with fresh water. Bring up to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes. Drain.

148 JUNE 2016

CAMOMILE, NETTLE AND PLANTAIN TEAPreparation 5 minutes Makes 1 teapotThis traditional blend of herbs is used to relieve and calm allergic reactions. Camomile is anti-inflammatory, nettle is an antihistamine, elderflower is anti-catarrhal and plantain allays allergic reactions. As a tea, these herbs reduce the body’s response to all kinds of allergens, providing a calming effect on hayfever, eczema, asthma, prickly heat and nettle rash. Nettle and plantain and elderflower can all be gathered from the wild (but are best harvested away from roadsides and where dogs might have been). Camomile is a gloriously fragrant garden herb but can otherwise be bought from a health food shop or herbalist.

4 tbsp fresh camomile flowers or 2 tbsp dried (Chamomilla recutita) a small bowlful of freshly picked nettle tops (Urtica dioica)4-6 large plantain leaves (Plantago lanceolata)2-3 fresh elderflower heads (Sambucus nigra)

1 Herbal teas are best infused in teapots. This ensures the volatile oils are released by the heat, condense under the lid and distill into the tea. First warm your teapot, then add the herbs, cover with almost boiling water before covering with a lid and maybe even a cosy. For the most therapeutic results, drink up to three cups a day.

NEW POTATOES WITH GOAT’S CHEESE, LAVENDER, FENNEL AND ELDERFLOWER BUTTERPreparation 10 minutes Cooking 15 minutes Serves 4I love this fragrant early summer salad. The combination of waxy new potatoes and crumbly fresh goat’s cheese is always fantastic, but the delicate perfume of lavender and elderflower compliment and lift it to another level. I cut some elderflower heads to mop through the butter and flavour the potatoes – a cool trick I learned from René Redzepi, chef-owner of the Michelin-starred restaurant Noma, in Copenhagen.

800g new potatoes, halved if large50g butter

1 tbsp olive oil2 elderflower headsa squeeze of lemon juice150g goat’s cheesea few petals from 1-2 fresh lavender flowersa handful of fennel tops

1 Put the potatoes into a pan of well-salted water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8-15 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.

2 Drain the potatoes and return to the pan. Add the butter, oil, elderflower heads and lemon juice. Season well, turn together and set aside to rest for a few minutes.

3 Scatter the potatoes over a large platter with all the butter, discarding the elderflower. Crumble over the cheese and lavender, then tear over the fennel.

F O O D & D R I N K


HAKE WITH SORREL SAUCEPreparation 15 minutes Cooking about 20 minutes Serves 2Hake is a sustainable choice if you’re looking for white fish and it goes beautifully with the citrusy tang of fresh sorrel, which tastes like gooseberry crossed with rhubarb. It’s full of fibre and rich in vitamins, especially C.

20g butter2 tbsp olive oil½ onion, finely chopped1 garlic clove, peeled and sliced300ml hot fish or vegetable stock100g fresh sorrel1 bay leaf1 garlic clove, bruised2 hake fillets with skin (about 150g-200g each)

1 Start by making the sorrel sauce. Put a medium-sized pan over a low to medium heat. Add the butter (reserving a small knob for the fish) and 1 tbsp oil. Scatter in the onion and garlic, and cook, stirring regularly, for 10-12 minutes until softened.

2 Pour in the stock and bring to a gentle simmer for 4-5 minutes.

3 Remove and discard any

coarse stems from the sorrel leaves. Wash and roughly chop the leaves and add to the pan. Stir for 45 seconds to 1 minute, then transfer to a blender or food processor. Blend to a smooth sauce, adding a splash more water or fish stock, if necessary. Season well with salt and black pepper and keep warm.

4 To cook the fish, put a medium-sized non-stick

pan over a medium to high heat. Add 1 tbsp oil and the remaining butter. Throw in the bay leaf and garlic. Season the fish all over and lay skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the majority of the translucent flesh has turned opaque. Flip the fish and cook for a final 30 seconds. Serve the fish, skin-side up, with spoonfuls of sorrel sauce.

F O O D & D R I N K


ELDERFLOWER, YARROW AND PEPPERMINT CORDIALPreparation 30 minutes, plus infusing Cooking 10 minutes Makes about 2.5 litresThe combination of elderflower, yarrow and peppermint is a traditional herbal formula taken at the onset of colds and flu to induce a sweat and break a fever. Elderflower dries up catarrh, while yarrow stimulates the circulation

and is diaphoretic (induces sweating). However, here we have combined the fresh herbs in a cordial. In place of sugar, this recipe includes honey, which has preserving properties, too; Eleanor has bees at her home, so honey is in plentiful supply. Citric acid can also be added to extend the life of the tonic into the winter months. It is superb taken with hot water or you can add ginger, or even whisky, to bring extra warmth…

24 large fresh heads of elderflower (Sambucus nigra)12 stems of fresh peppermint (Mentha piperita) 6 medium stems of yarrow (Achillea millefolium)finely grated zest of 3 unwaxed lemons, plus their juice (about 150ml)1kg honey or sugar 1 heaped tsp citric acid (optional)

1 Inspect the elderflower heads and remove any

insects. Put the flowers in a large bowl with the mint, yarrow and lemon zest.

2 Bring 1.5 litres water to the boil, then remove from the heat and leave to stand for 5 minutes. Pour the cooled water over the elderflower, mint and yarrow. Stir once or twice, cover and leave overnight to infuse.

3 Strain the infused liquid through a scalded jelly bag or piece of clean muslin, then pour into a pan. Add the honey or sugar, the lemon juice and the citric acid (if using).

4 Heat gently to dissolve the honey and citric acid but do not boil. Using a funnel, pour the hot cordial into sterilised bottles. Seal with swing-top lids, sterilised screw-tops or corks and label when cold.


F O O D & D R I N K

CL OFFERRiver Cottage is offering Country Living readers

a 15% discount on all Hedgerow Foraging with John Wright courses in

2016 when using the code CLJUNE. To find out more,

visit rivercottage.net or call 01297 630300.*

*15%

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TICKETS PRICE IN ADVANCE PRICE ON DAY

Adults £23 £27

Children (age 5-18) £10 £13Family (two adults £56 £67 and three children)

or anyone with a passion

for rural life, a visit to this year’s Great

Yorkshire Show, which takes place on the edge

of the beautiful spa town of Harrogate, is not to be missed.

This will be the 158th time that England’s premier agricultural show has opened its gates to the public, bringing together a wonderful mix of attractions, demonstrations and competitive classes, as well as delicious local food and drink in the impressive new Hall 1.

There will be lots for everyone to see and do on each day of the event. Topping the bill in the main ring is the Freestyle

Motorcycle Display Team, Bolddog Lings, providing the crowd with non-stop action

from start to finish. You can also enjoy top-

class showjumping, musical entertainment, cookery workshops, the ever-popular Garden Show and the country pursuits and forestry areas.

There will be plenty of opportunities to shop, too, with stalls offering everything from country clothing and high-street designs to tractors. Plus, don’t forget to visit the Country Living Pavilion, where you can discover wonderful work from British craftspeople, including jewellery, homeware and art.

JOIN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE AT

The Great Yorkshire Show

To book tickets, visit

greatyorkshireshow.co.uk

or call 01423 541222,

quoting the code CL

12-14 JULY

healthnotes

countryliving.co.uk

ENJOY THE NORDIC TRADITION OF DRINKING CLEANSING BIRCH WATER –

the sap is sustainably tapped from the trees at the start of spring. Sibberi Birch Water (£2.49, from Waitrose) has a naturally sweet flavour but is low

in calories and rich in antioxidants.OVERDONE THE WEEDING IN THE GARDEN?

Try ActiPatch Knee Pain Advanced Long-Lasting Relief (£19.99, boots.com), a drug-free device that

emits a painless electromagnetic pulse, which helps to dampen the brain’s perception of pain.

NEW NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES ORGANIC SALVES (£6.50 each, nealsyardremedies.com)

are a handy addition to your pocket for walks and outings. There’s Arnica Salve for bumps and bruises,

Soothing Skin Salve for dry or irritated skin, and Calming Temple Salve for the end of a busy day.For more tips and products, visit netdoctor.co.uk.

NATURE’S MEDICINE CABINETPeas They may be small but the fresh peas popping up in gardens right now are nutrient powerhouses. They’re rich in vitamin K, which helps to anchor calcium in the bones, and a good source of B vitamins, which, along with their fibre content, help to reduce the risk of heart disease. A serving provides half your recommended amount of vitamin C – and, if growing them in your garden, don’t forget the pea shoots – gram for gram they contain seven times more vitamin C than oranges. Of course, nothing quite beats eating peas fresh from the pod, and this is the best way to eat them as the sugar quickly turns to starch. Otherwise choose frozen, as this preserves more of the nutrients.*

BEAUTY BUZZC L E A N S I N G B A L M SFor a deep cleanse that won’t strip your complexion of natural oils, try one of these new cleansing balms. They melt into skin, lifting away grime and impurities, while at the same time releasing wonderful aromas. Massaging them in, then removing with a hot flannel or muslin cloth, also helps to stimulate blood flow. Try: Pure Instant Radiance English Rose Cleansing Balm (£12, marksandspencer.com); Erborian Solid Cleansing Oil (£29, uk.erborian.com); Suti Cleanse Facial Cleansing Balm (£33, sutiskincare.com); Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (£39.50, elemis.com).

NEW FAVOURITE

Lily of the valley is at the peak of its short season but you can capture the delicate fragrance for

longer with new Molton Brown Dewy Lily of the

Valley & Star Anise Body Lotion (£25), Hand

Cream (£10) and Bath & Shower Gel (£18, moltonbrown.co.uk).

A CARROT A DAYThey’re not just good for your eyes – regularly serving up those delicious new-season British carrots could also help reduce the risk of certain types of breast cancer. A recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition revealed that women who had a diet rich in carotene – the plant chemical that gives carrots and peppers their bright colour – were between 40 and 60 per cent less likely to develop oestrogen receptor negative breast cancers, which account for nearly a third of all breast tumours. Carotene is turned into vitamin A in the body, and other studies have shown they help boost eye health as well as maintain a healthy immune system.

Boost your wellbeing the natural way with our round-up

from the world of health and beauty

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158 JUNE 2015 shop.countryliving.co.uk

et against the stunning surroundings of Ragley Hall in Warwickshire from

Friday 29 to Sunday 31 July, The Game Fair is the annual gathering for those who are

passionate about outdoor pursuits. Known as the ‘Festival of the Countryside’, this wonderful show celebrates the British rural areas in all their glory, from clay shooting to archery, gundog scurries and international championships to fishing, falconry, ferreting and equestrian pursuits. Plus an array of artisan food and drink, shopping stalls galore and hands-on outdoor activities guarantees that there is something for the whole family.

To make your visit even more exciting, try camping in the Bear Grylls Survival Zone and learn new skills with Bear’s expert team. Alternatively, indulge in a spot of glamping for a luxurious stay!

While you’re there, browse and buy from 850 stands, which offer a wide variety of products from traditional crafts and country equipment to unique items for your home that you won’t find anywhere on the high street. And be sure to visit the Country Living Pavilion, located adjacent to the Show Arena, where you’ll find an inspiring range of British crafts.

JOIN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE ATThe Game Fair

29-31 JULY 2016

Buy your tickets

now by calling 0844 776 7777 or visit the website

thegamefair.org

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y


AS THE COUNTRYSIDE AND gardens fill with the beautiful sight of summer blooms and scent of freshly cut grass, for an estimated one in four people in the UK who suffer from hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis to give it its formal name, it’s not such a joyous scene. If you’re allergic to pollen – be it tree, grass or weeds – a relaxing day in the sun can become a miserable endurance test of sneezing, sore eyes and a runny nose.

Even if you’ve made it to adulthood hay-fever free, you may not be off the hook. The condition is on the rise and, according to the National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit, half a million people in their thirties, forties and fifties can expect to develop it in the next decade.

For hay-fever sufferers, pollen is viewed by their body as an unwanted

Don’t let allergies ruin your summer in the countryside – try these natural remedies to help nip them in the bud

WORDS BY SARAH MASON

invader, and it reacts by producing antibodies (histamine) to kick it out as speedily as possible. As the cells inside the nose, eyes and airways fight to flush out the usurper, you can expect sneezing and a continuously dripping nose. And, thanks to inflammation and irritation, itchy and sore eyes, nose and throat can also be thrown into the mix.

Managing the symptoms of hay fever is vital, warns Amena Warner, head of clinical services at Allergy UK. “If left untreated, the allergens can eventually reach the lungs, causing dangerous asthma symptoms in some people.” While antihistamines, nasal sprays and other over-the-counter products offer relief for many, there are also natural choices to help ease the discomfort.

SEASONSneezing



NETTLESNo more moaning about nettles – they can be a welcome blessing to hay-fever sufferers, thanks to their rich source of quercetin. “The body uses quercetin to strengthen the mast cells, which are involved in the release of histamine, potentially reducing that activity, so helping with hay-fever symptoms,” says nutritional therapist Daniel O’Shaughnessy from the British Association for Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy. Try sipping on nettle tea, or, if you’re lucky enough to have a supply on tap, make some soup. You can also try quercetin-rich red onions, garlic and sweet potatoes.

GOOD BACTERIAProbiotics are not just good for balancing the good and bad bacteria in the digestive tract. In a trial published in The Journal of Investigational Allergology and Clinical Immunology, the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum was found to relieve symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose in hay-fever

sufferers. It’s thought that some good bacteria in the gut may help to improve the immune system, thereby reducing the severity of a reaction when exposed to an allergen. Try a balanced probiotic supplement such as Natural Health Practice Advanced Probiotic Support (£29.96, health-food shops).

BRITISH HONEYFans of a daily spoonful of local honey believe it works thanks to a process called immunotherapy. They claim that as honey contains small amounts of pollen, eating it triggers an immune response, causing the body to produce antibodies to fight off the invader. As the body gets used to the presence of pollen, when more arrives it’s less likely to have such a severe response.

If you want to give it a try, you don’t have to get it from your doorstep because, according to the Bee Farmers’ Association, the flora will be similar across a larger area. What’s more important is that you choose a British honey that hasn’t had its pollen removed through pasteurisation – a process that most supermarket varieties go through. Instead, try fresh unpasteurised honey from a farmers’ market, or a specialist product such as Hayfeguard Set Honey (£14.99, thehivehoneyshop.co.uk).

VITAL VITAMINSVitamin E reduces sneezing and a blocked nose, according to a study in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. It is an antioxidant that can help the body fight off free radicals – natural substances that cause oxidative tissue damage, which in turn triggers inflammation, worsening allergic reactions. Add sunflower seeds and almonds to your breakfast for a natural source.

Keep vitamin C levels topped up as well. “It has antioxidant properties along with being an antihistamine,” says Roger Newman Turner, a fellow of the British Naturopathic Association. Try Holland & Barrett Vitamin C Timed Release with Bioflavonoids Caplets 500mg (£12.69, hollandandbarrett.com).

CAMOMILEIt’s in full bloom at this time of year, so use the flowers and leaves to make a hay-fever calming infusion. “Camomile is cooling and soothing to help tackle inflammation,” says naturopath and herbalist Maya Daghighi. Double the benefits by sipping the tea, then put the squeezed tea bag in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before placing over an irritated eye for up to five minutes.

HOMEOPATHYA study in the British Medical Journal found that allergy sufferers given homeopathic remedies experienced an improvement in symptoms. GP Dr Helen Beaumont, president of the Faculty of Homeopathy, recommends seeing a practitioner in the first instance. “They can assess all your symptoms and design a personalised treatment,” she says. Alternatively, if you want to try self-dosing, she suggests one tablet a day of mixed pollen (try Weleda Mixed Pollen Tablets, £6.75, weleda.co.uk). If you specifically have a runny nose and sore throat, you could instead try taking allium cepa, or, for itchy eyes, try euphrasia – both are in Nelsons Pollenna (£5.79, nelsonspharmacy.com).

ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDSExperts increasingly think that getting the right balance of fatty acids in your diet is important for allergy sufferers. “We need both omega 6 and omega 3 in our diets,” explains Roger Newman Turner. “However, too much omega 6 can encourage inflammation, while omega 3 fatty acids are more anti-inflammatory. Since hay fever is an allergic response, causing inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, reducing this can help to reduce symptoms.” Most of us naturally have more than sufficient omega 6 in our diet, while omega 3 levels tend to be lower, adds Roger. So boost omega 3 levels by eating one or two portions a week of oily fish such as sardines and mackerel, and sprinkle walnuts and flax seeds over cereal and salads.



REDUCE YOUR POLLEN EXPOSURE

Allergen barrier balm Stop the pollen getting up your nose

by smearing a balm such as HayMax (£6.99, Boots) around your nostrils two or three times a day, advises Amena Warner,

head of clinical services at Allergy UK. “It is very effective

at stopping hay-fever symptoms taking hold.”

Adapt your garden Get someone else to mow the lawn (the perfect excuse) and if you

can, choose plants that are less allergenic. Dahlias, daisies,

geraniums, roses and tulips, for example, all produce a heavy, waxy pollen that’s less likely

to become airborne.

Salt water spray Each evening, send pollen that may have

become trapped inside your nose packing with an isotonic

saline nasal spray, advises Amena. Don’t be tempted to

make your own saline as it might be too strong and irritate

the airways – try Sterimar Isotonic Nasal Hygiene

(£5.99, Boots).

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Preview Evening 4 July. Members’ Days 5 & 6 July. Family Saturday 9 July. *Up to two children (aged 16 and under) go free with an accompanying adult (no under-16s admitted to Preview Evening).**Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone’s access charge.

***The show closes at 5.30pm on Sunday 10 July with the plant sell-off at 4pm.

elebrate summer at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. With

more than 40 show gardens, you are sure to find inspiration for your

own outdoor space. The ever-popular Summer Gardens make a welcome return alongside innovative Water Gardens and City Gardens showcasing how even the smallest spaces can be transformed.

The Plant Village and Floral Marquee are the perfect place to stock up on high-quality plants and get gardening advice from top nurseries. If you love roses, visit the Festival of Roses Marquee, which this year is themed around the cottage garden featured in Beatrix Potter’s tales.

There’s also a full programme of talks from gardening experts, including James Wong (5 July), Christine Walkden (5 and 6 July) and David Domoney (7 and 10 July).Plus chefs Jean-Christophe Novelli (7 July) and Gennaro Contaldo (10 July) share their passion for cooking with fresh produce in the Cook and Grow Theatre.

On our new Family Saturday (9 July), CBeebies’ Mr Bloom will inspire children to get closer to nature while the Kids Cookery School serves up wonderful recipes. There is also a storytelling bus, seed sowing and a Butterfly Dome to captivate young imaginations. Don’t forget, children under 16 go free*.

And finally there are acres of shopping stalls, including the Country Living Pavilion, showcasing the best of British crafts, plus delicious food and live music, making this a great day out for everyone.

JOIN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE AT THERHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

To book tickets, visit

rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt

or call 0844 338 7527**,

quoting the code HAMCL16

5-10 JULY

TIME

10am-7.30pm10am-7.30pm

10am-7.30pm***

DAY(S)

Tuesday 5 July Wednesday 6 JulyRHS Members only

Thursday 7 July-Sunday 10 July

CL READERS

n/an/a

£29.50in advance

MEMBERS

£35.50 in advance£30.50 in advance

£25 in advance£34 on day

PUBLIC

n/an/a

£31.50 in advance£37 on day

where to buyStockists in this issue

A ACORN AND WILL 07921 261194; acornandwill.co.uk ANTHROPOLOGIE 00800 0026 8476; anthropologie.com/uk

B BELVOIR FRUIT FARMS 01476 870286; belvoirfruitfarms.co.uk BETTYS 0800 456 1919; bettys.co.uk BODIE & FOU bodieandfou.com BUDDUG buddug.com

C CABBAGES & ROSES 020 7352 7333; cabbagesandroses.com COOLING NURSERIES 01959 532269; coolings.co.uk COX & COX 0844 858 0744; coxandcox.co.uk

D DAVEY LIGHTING 020 7351 2130; davey-lighting.co.uk DAVID AUSTIN 01902 376300; davidaustinroses.co.uk DEE HARDWICKE deehardwicke.co.uk DEE PUDDY 01794 323020; deepuddy.co.uk

E EBAY ebay.co.uk EMMA GINNEVER emmaginnever.co.uk ENGLISH HERITAGE SHOP english-heritageshop.org.uk ETSY etsy.com

F FINE NORDIC finenordic.co.uk FRED ALDOUS 0161 236 4224; fredaldous.co.uk

G GARDEN TRADING 0845 608 4448; gardentrading.co.uk GRAND ILLUSIONS 01747 858300; grandillusions.co.uk

H HABITAT 0344 499 4686; habitat.co.uk THE HAMMOCK STORE the-hammock-store.co.uk HARLEQUIN 0845 123 6815; harlequin.uk.com HEN & HAMMOCK 01844 217060; henandhammock.co.uk HOBBYCRAFT 0330 026 1400; hobbycraft.co.uk HOPSCOTCH hopscotchlondon.com

J JANE POWELL ART 07770 581033; janepowellart.com JESSIE CHORLEY 07708 921550; jessiechorley.com JOHN LEWIS 0345 604 9049; johnlewis.com

K KATE BROUGHTON katebroughton.co.uk KIRAN RAVILIOUS 0116 255 3044; kiranravilious.co.uk

L LAURA ASHLEY 03332 008009; lauraashley.com LAKELAND 01539 488100; lakeland.co.uk LIBERTY 020 7734 1234; liberty.co.uk

THE LINEN WORKS 020 3744 1020; thelinenworks.co.uk LITTLE AXE 0141 576 0539; littleaxe.co.uk LITTLE STAMP STORE AT ETSY etsy.com/uk/shop/LittleStampStore

M MATT PUGH 07880 638153; mattpugh.co.uk MUJI www.muji.eu MYLANDS 020 8670 9161; mylands.co.uk

N NOT ON THE HIGH STREET notonthehighstreet.com

O OFFICE 0330 100 1906; office.co.uk OGILVY’S 01780 450377; ogilvys.com OSBORNE & LITTLE osborneandlittle.com

P PIMPERNEL & PARTNERS 020 7731 2448; pimpernelandpartners.co.uk PIPII 01342 823921; pipii.co.uk

R ROMO 01623 756699; romo.comS SAM PICKARD 01769 574550; sampickard.co.uk

SANDERSON 0844 543 9500; sanderson-uk.com SWOON LOUNGE swoon-lounge.com

T THORNBACK & PEEL 020 7831 2878; thornbackandpeel.co.uk

V VILLA NOVA 01623 756699; villanova.co.ukW WHAT KATE LOVES 07540 953539;

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SEASONAL SEAFOOD

Easy livingNew ideas for coastal style

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SLEEP BEAUTIFULLY WITH HYPNOS Luxury bed manufacturer Hypnos has been making beautiful made-to-measure beds in the UK for over 100 years, combining traditional skills with innovation, style, and using only the finest natural and sustainable materials available. Internationally renowned as the leading specialists in producing handcrafted, sumptuous pocket spring beds, Hypnos believes in quality, comfort and detailed hand tailoring above all else, helping you to get a beautiful night’s sleep. Proud holders of a Royal Warrant, Hypnos specialises in creating bespoke beds tailored to your personal comfort level, size, shape and taste, meaning you can create a supremely stylish and comfortable bed that will allow you to wake up feeling refreshed. To find your dream bed, visit www.hypnosbeds.com

Stylish livingIdeas for your home

HUTCH.CO.UK The Portsmouth Stone Grey painted range from Hutch is a favourite with customers. This beautiful and inexpensive range comes in living, dining and bedroom. The oak tops and satin chrome D cup handles with the satin paint finish really set of any room in the home. Visit www.hutch.co.uk to take advantage of this great range, which is held in stock for next day delivery to the room of your choice, plus they even take the wrapping away.

SWOON EDITIONSSwoon Editions is an online furniture brand that enables people to buy beautifully handcrafted furniture at honest, reasonable prices. From the elegant hand-crafted curves through to the hand-finished paintwork, the Camille chest of drawers in Dove Grey merges French country charm and meticulous detailing - just £349 including delivery. Readers also save £20 on orders over £200 with voucher code COUNTRYLIVING. To order, go to swooneditions.com/countryliving or call 0203 137 2464. Offer expires on 26.05.16.


Fashion editLook good this summer

THE PERFECT WHITE T-SHIRTNothing beats the simplicity and style of a classic white t-shirt. And that’s just what The White T-shirt Co. are all about. Wardrobe essentials beautifully made to last in their own super soft organic cotton. All t-shirts come with an ethical promise of responsible manufacture and guarantee the perfect fit wash after wash. Available in classic white, black, navy and grey, prices start at £34 and are available on line at www.thewhitetshirt.com or by telephoning 0191 2582139. Country Living readers can enjoy a 15% discount by adding CL15 to their basket until the end of June 2016.

DENNY ANDREWS Comfortable clothes made in India with pure cottons or silks: kaftans, dresses, night gowns, waistcoats etc, bedspreads and round tablecloths. Free catalogue from Denny Andrews, Clock House, Coleshill nr Swindon SN6 7PT, 01793 762476 or look at www.dennyandrews.co.uk

TIMELESS JEWELLERY FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Eternal Collection offers beautiful costume jewellery and accessories at prices you will love. They have a fantastic selection of enamel, exquisite pearl, Venetian glass, gemstone, fashion and Swarovski crystal jewellery to suit all tastes and a vast range

of clip-on and pierced earrings. No quibble guarantee and free returns.For your FREE catalogue call 03453 707071 or visit www.eternalcollection.co.uk10% OFF your first order when you QUOTE CL26.* Excluding Postage & Packing.

Not valid with any other promotion.

VARCAThe handcrafted design of the traditional Menorcan Sandal from Varca is the perfect summer accessory for men, women and children. Our range includes a variety of colours and styles, including espadrilles and wedges. Shop online at www.varca.com or visit our showroom Unit 3, Spring Buildings, Storrington, RH20 3DW, open Wed/Thurs 10am-3pm or call 01903 746677.

THE TWISTERNew Colour - Azzure. On promotion from £89.00 to £65.00 plus P&P. 100% cotton.The Twister gracefully adds an element of fluidity to your wardrobe, whilst at the same time provides you with an enduringly versatile cropped style sweater. Available from our store www.originalblues.uk or call 01635 867165.


Where the heart isInterior inspiration

ESSE: BRITISH MANUFACTURING AT ITS BESTMore than 160 years of British manufacturing experience goes into every hand-crafted ESSE stove and range cooker.Mark Blewitt, director of ESSE, explains: “We have stoves with hot water boilers, double door models and even offer a stove that cooks to perfection. Our range of styles and specifications means there is something to suit every home.”ESSE’s Ironheart offers timeless appeal and is a River Cottage favourite. The gas fuelled model has 80% efficiency.It offers traditional style combined with modern convenience and faster heat-up times. It has a maximum output of 6.7kW and realistic log fire effect. RRP £4,012.73 (including VAT).www.esse.com or call 01282 813 235.

DAVID SALISBURY OAKDavid Salisbury Oak is renowned for its beautiful buildings created by a team of highly skilled craftsmen. If you have a dream to enhance your home, this experienced team can help you achieve it. A David Salisbury Oak design is exclusive to each individual customer and uses only the finest selected air dried, seasoned oak to create a stunning build. All sized projects are possible, including orangeries, garden rooms, conservatories and more. The company is currently offering readers free planning (usually £1200) until June 1st. To claim, call 01278 764415 or visit www.davidsalisburyoak.co.uk quoting OAK2804.

SPRINGVALE LEATHER Springvale Leather have been hand crafting beautiful high quality furniture for 30 years. All of their ranges can be made in any colour and you can alter the size and comfort to suit your personal requirements. For more information or to request their brand new 96 page brochure call 01706 225005 or visit www.springvaleleather.co.uk

KENTCHURCH BUTLERSA perfect gift that will last forever.Ideal for that birthday, wedding, anniversary or retirement present. Hand made and painted, these wooden side tables are fun pieces of furniture to rest your drinks etc on.To order: telephone 01803 732 933 or visit our website www.kentchurchbutlers.co.uk

Treat yourselfThis month’s essentials

PICTURE PERFECTThese exquisite watercolours by Alex Eganare beautifully printed onto a heavy weightpaper and come ready framed. Usually£32.50 with 20% off they are now just £26*each. Quote CL JUNE at checkout or call01603 759705. *P&P £2.95.www.wildcardcompany.com

KRILL OIL – THE NEW SUPER OMEGA 3Omega 3 in Krill Oil is in a unique phospholipid structure which research now suggests is far superior to fish oil omega 3 when delivered to the body for maximum omega health benefits. Krill Oil also provides astaxanthin, a highly respected antioxidant and choline, beneficial for brain and memory function. Silvertown Health Krill Oil is eco-harvested to protect nature in the pristine clear waters of the Antarctic. RRP £24.95, Reader Offer £16.97 + p&p. (60 capsules up to two months supply). Free home spa facial masque with first order. This offer can be withdrawn at anytime. Online Order/ more info – www.silvertownhealth.co.uk or Tel 24 Hour Order Line – 0345 0956903.

LOOK YOUNGER LONGERTM

REGENTIV’S THE SPECIALIST SERUM (WITH RETINOL)

Lines, wrinkles, crepey eyes, sun and skin damage can all benefit from this potent formula. Developed by leading skin specialists with concentrated Retinol, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera and sunscreen.

Users say, “Since starting with The Specialist Serum my friends have asked what I am using and my skin has never looked better”. To order visit www.regentiv.co.ukTel: 01923 212555. 30ml £29.95, 50ml £44.95, 100ml £79.95, 200ml £149. Free P&P. Regentiv Specialist Skin Care, PO Box 400, Herts, WD17 3ZW.


ENTERTAIN IN STYLE!Get ready for summer with this stylish wicker basket which comes with 12 FREE champagne glasses! Perfect for summer season entertaining, this attractive and practical solution to transporting picnic essentials is hand-crafted from full buff willow and is ideal for a party at the races, regatta, evening concert or any outdoor event. For a free catalogue, call 01243 811844 or order securely online at furfeatherandfin.com. Quote CL16 for 10% off your first order.

WILVERLEYThe Absolute King of Swing! Made for the British summer, the Idler swingseat from Wilverley is a traditionally upholstered swinging garden sofa. Marine canvas, spring cushions and a 100% stainless steel frame make the Idler not just a fair weather friend. Wilverley can ship internationally, £1945. Call 01843 603462 or visit www.wilverley.com for more information.

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

IDYLLIC ESCAPESCOUNTRY LIVING PRESENT A SELECTION OF IDYLLIC RETREATS

FROM WHICH YOU COULD CHOOSE A PEACEFUL AND RELAXING BREAK

NORTH DEVON COASTLuxury barn conversions sleeping 2-8.

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Tel 01237 441 311www.pattard.com

WINDERMERE LAKE HOLIDAYSLuxury self-catering holiday apartments with stunning

views on the shore of Lake Windermere.Short breaks available throughout the year.

Tel: 01539 443415www.lakewindermere.net

Email: [email protected]

DART VALLEY COTTAGESDart Valley Cottages offer a superb collection ofself-catering holiday cottages in South Devon on

and around the River Dart, Dartmouth and Dittisham,surrounding rural and coastal villages.

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Escape to a luxury cottageSleeps up to 8 & cot. Open fire & wood burner

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SANDBURNE VEGETARIAN GUEST HOUSEKESWICK – THE LAKE DISTRICT

Two beautifully finished twin rooms with luxury showers in theformer home of Donald Watson, founder of the Vegan Society;

far reaching views over wonderful Keswick towards the Coledaleand Lorton Fells, delicious vegetarian or vegan breakfasts using

locally sourced organic products wherever possible; largeattractive garden, easy parking, walks from the door,

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ISLE OF WIGHT ANDDORSET HOLIDAY COTTAGES

Charming cottages in beautiful rural and coastal locations situatedthroughout the Isle of Wight & Purbeck, Dorset. Pretty thatched

cottages, farmhouses, stone cottages with stunning sea views inpicturesque villages. Some cottages with swimming pools.

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LONGLANDS DEVONGet close to nature. Unplug from the daily rush.

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Bring the dog. Walk on the beach.Learn to surf. Gaze at star filled skies.

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01271 882004 longlandsdevon.co.uk

WILDERNESS COTTAGESTHROUGHOUT SCOTLANDQuality self catering cottages, housesand apartments, throughout Scotland.

Countryside to seashore, rustic to 5 star luxury.Short breaks available & pets welcome.

New 2016 Brochure Available.Tel: 01463 719219

www.wildernesscottages.co.uk

LAKELAND HIDEAWAYSCottages in and around the pretty village ofHawkshead in the heart of the Lake District

We are a local, friendly agency with choice of over 60 cottagesPets welcome and free fishing

Short breaks and flexible arrival dates availableEasy to use website with online booking

www.lakeland-hideaways.co.ukTel 015394 42435

PRIDE OF BRITAIN HOTELSWe’ve selected and approved 50 of the best independently

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EXCLUSIVE LUXURY HOLIDAYPROPERTIES IN THE UK AND IRELAND

A Rural Retreats property has been carefully chosen for itsbeautiful interior as well as its idyllic setting.

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BRECON BEACONSHOLIDAY COTTAGES

For that perfect break, we have over 350 great cottages in superblocations in and around the Brecon Beacons National Park, BlackMountains and Wye Valley. Romantic cottages for 2 people, rusticfarmhouses and large country houses some sleeping 20, with oakbeams and open fires. Pretty villages, good pubs, hill walking, pony

trekking, mountain biking and fishing. Pets Welcome.www.breconcottages.com 01874 749914

COTTAGES • FOOD • WILDERNESS5� (Gold Award) self-catering cottages on the historic Trelowarren Estate. 1000 acres of peace and

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Enjoy a treatment in the Walled Garden Spa, a swim in the heated ozone pool, dinner in theaward winning restaurant and, of course, all the wonderful walks around the estate.

All of our houses have wood burning stoves, are dog friendly and are furnished to the highest standards.Telephone: 01326 221224 Web: www.trelowarren.com

JUNE 2016 171

RAISE VIEW HOUSEAN ELEGANT BED & BREAKFASTGRASMERE THE LAKE DISTRICT

Six beautiful & stylishly furnished en-suite bedrooms. Enjoying magnificent views of the surrounding fells.

Perfect location for walking. Excellent choices of places to eat all within walking distance.

www.raiseviewhouse.co.uk

TRADITIONAL HOSPITALITY AND GREAT FOOD CLOSE TO NORWICH AND THE BROADSEnjoy warm hospitality, 2 AA Rosette dining, stylish accommodation and thoughtful service

at the 4 Old Rectory ‘Restaurant with Rooms’ and Dowager’s Cottage (self-catering). Norwich’s rich heritage and culture is close by and the wildlife and tranquility of the Norfolk Broads and coast just a short drive.

Call us or book from our website for best rates / offers – we look forward to welcoming you.

The Old Rectory ‘Restaurant with Rooms’, 103 Yarmouth Road, Norwich, NR7 0HFTelephone: 01603 700772

Email: [email protected]: www.oldrectorynorwich.com

CREEKSIDE COTTAGESNear Falmouth, Cornwall

Waters-edge, village and rural cottages sleeping 2 - 8.Enchanting picturesque positions, peaceful and comfortable.

Open fires. Dogs welcome. Available throughout the year.

For our colour brochure, please call 01326 375972Or visit our web site www.creeksidecottages.co.uk

HEACHAM HOUSE B&B IN NORTH NORFOLKA special place to stay where you can be assured of a warm

welcome. Short stroll to the beach and adjacent to the North Norfolk Coast AONB. Wonderful walks, birds, beaches,

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Contact us at www.heachamhouse.com01485 579529 [email protected]

BLACKWATER COTTAGE B&B, SOMERSETNestled in the Blackdown Hills in Somerset. off A303 and M5.

We have four lovely rooms on offer, a mixture of Double, Twin and Single, with a cooked breakfast.A relaxing place with lovely surroundings.

Wonderful houses, gardens and walks to discover.

www.blackwatercottagebandb.co.uk01460 234228

BROOK FARM AT BERRINGTON, WORCESTERSHIRE

"It's just like walking into the pages of Country Living" according to guests. A five bedroom farmhouse perfect for family or B&B and two holiday cottages set in nearly nine acres of gardens,

woodland and meadows. Brook Farm is one of those dream homes to come for a holiday or make your home for a lifetime.

For sale through McCartneys, Tenbury Wells or book a holiday through www.brookfarmberrington.com

BEECH FARM COTTAGESVisitEngland Award for “exceptional quality of

accommodation & customer service”.Village location on edge of N. Yorkshire Moors.

Cottages sleeping 2, 4, 6, 10 people.Heated indoor pool, sauna, children’s

play area, paddock, llamas.

Tel: 01751 476 612 www.beechfarm.comemail: [email protected]

FOR DETAILS OF CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PLEASE TELEPHONE 020 3728 6260 OR VISIT WWW.HEARSTMAGAZINESDIRECT.CO.UK172 JUNE 2016 172172

DARTMOUTH HOLIDAY HOMESDartmouth Holiday Homes specialise in propertiessolely in Dartmouth and the Dart Valley. Many takeadvantage of the wonderful views of Dartmouth’sspectacular harbour and surrounding countryside.

With a super portfolio of properties,we have plenty of choice for a holiday in this truly

unique riverside town.Call our team on 01803 833082

www.dartmouthuk.com

NORTH NORFOLK COASTCharming cottages, all just a 3 or 4 minute stroll to the beach.

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with a pub and shop. All with private car parking.

Pets by arrangement.

01263 768440www.northnorfolkescapes.co.uk

FELIN CREWI COTTAGESTwo self-catering, beautifully renovated watermill

cottages, each sleeping up to 6 people. Set by a beautiful waterfall, in the glorious Welsh

countryside of south Snowdonia with villages, seaside, mountains, bike trails, fishing & golf course nearby.

Short breaks available.

Tel: 01654 703113www.felincrewi.co.uk

LEACHACHAN BARNLeachachan Barn is on the southern shores of

Loch Duich in the Western Highlands of Scotland.Once used as a byre for working horses, the barn

has been redesigned and transformed into a modern house which has retained much of its

original character. Wood burning stove, picture windows overlooking

loch and the Five Sisters of Kintail. Sleeps 4.leachachanbarn.net

BRITTANY SPA COTTAGESTwo luxury cottages in Brittany sleeping 2 and 4.

Located in a stunning setting offering 5 star accommodation with stylish interiors, luxury linens, welcome goodies,

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babies welcome too!Tel; 0033 297 282065

Email; [email protected]

DISCOVER THE COTSWOLDSWe have a delightful selection of carefully chosen self-catering cottages, houses and apartments set in idyllic village and rural

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Call us on 01386 438 513, email us at [email protected]

or visit our website DiscovertheCotswolds.net

BOSVATHICK HOUSE, CORNWALLA peaceful place to stay in an historic house surrounded

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natural beauty, we offer luxury B&B accommodation for singles, couples and families.

www.bosvathickhouse.co.uk01326 340103

THE COTTAGES, IRELANDCome and explore the mysterious and ancient beauty

of the Boyne Valley, the gateway to Ireland’s Ancient East. Luxurious 300 year old thatched cottages superbly situated in private, gated, picturesque organic flower gardens in a hamlet

like setting on 6 miles of sandy beach.

www.cottages-ireland.com Tel: +353 41 982 8104

‘Highland Green’ by James Bartholomew RSMA,

now available as a Signed Limited Edition Print

on paper or canvas.

See more of James’ prints & original paintings on the

website or phone 01257 462333

www.jamesbartholomew.co.uk

Don’t forget the confetti!

Handpicked Flower PetalsCreate your own bespoke mixFREE DELIVERY with code CL2016

www.confettidirect.co.uk01386 555045

Full Range Available at NicholasMosse.com

UNIQUE HANDCRAFTED TABLEWARE

WWW.THEOAKANDROPECOMPANY.CO.UK 01227 469 413

BYGONE NEWSPAPERSAnniversary & Birthday Gift Ideas

For Free Details FREEPHONE 0800 138 0990 to 8pmInt: 00 44 1934 412844

www.bygonenews.com/clm

• ORIGINALDailyNewspapers 1847 -2016•A perfect gift to commemorateany special occasion• Each newspaper is accompaniedwith a Certificate ofAuthenticity•We offer a great range ofhigh quality nostalgic gifts

www.pebblestosand.co.ukTel: 01295 738531

VISITwww.hearstmagazines.co.uk

SUBSCRIBE TO ONE OF OURTOP-SELLING MAGAZINES

JUNE 2016 173FOR DETAILS OF CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PLEASE TELEPHONE 020 3728 6260 OR VISIT WWW.HEARSTMAGAZINESDIRECT.CO.UK

COUNTRY DIRECTORY

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185 ACCESSORIES

173 ARTS, CRAFTS & GIFTS

175 BATHROOMS

177 BEDS & BEDDING

184 CONSERVATORIES

185 COURSES

175 DOORS & WINDOWS

185 FASHION

183 FIRES, STOVES

& HEATING

185 FLOORS & FLOORING

175 FURNITURE &

FURNISHINGS

184 GARAGES &

OUTBUILDINGS

181 GARDENS

MARKETPLACE

184 GATES & FENCING

185 GENERAL INTEREST

177 HOME INTEREST

175 HOUSE & GARDEN

175 HOUSE SIGNS

175 HOUSESITTING

184 KITCHENS

185 PETS & LIVESTOCK

184 SERVICES

181 SOFT FURNISHINGS

185 TRAVEL & HOLIDAYS

Relax and unwind on a midweek break to Roseberry Cottage (www.roseberrycottage.co.uk 01423 772926), a stunning luxury B&B. Nestled in Yorkshire countryside, just 15 minutes drive from Harrogate town centre. Enjoy a delicious continental breakfast of homemade, home-grown and local produce. The offer is for a two night midweek break, to be taken October or November excluding school holidays, subject to availability. Use these clues to find four advertisers who can be found in the Classified section of this month’s issue of Country Living.

Jackets for Alice and the Mad Hatter? Shhh! Keep quiet about this discount furniture.Drying rack with female name. Regal outdoor bathing.

Send your answers on a postcard to: CPCNLP16177, Hearst Magazines UK, The Data Solutions Centre, Worksop S80 2RT. The closing date for entries is 30th June 2016. NB: One entry per household. Not open to employees of Hearst Magazines UK (or their relatives).

WIN A MIDWEEK BREAK IN YORKSHIRE

Arts, crafts & gif ts

FOR DETAILS OF CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PLEASE TELEPHONE 020 3728 6260 OR VISIT WWW.HEARSTMAGAZINESDIRECT.CO.UK174 JUNE 2016

Wonderful Gifts and Home Furnishings made in the South West

www.love-local.com

PENELOPE TIMMIS CONTEMPORARYART

Paintings, cards, Splash backs etc Studio/gallery open by appointment.07709342351, [email protected], www.penelopetimmis.co.uk

Bespoke Oak Doors

Door Frames,Architrave, Skirting,Architectural Hardware

www.bespoke-oak-doors.com01969 650355

BEAMS RENOVATED WITHOUT MESS!

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Back from BlackBeam Renovation Ltd

RENOVATING BEAMS SINCE 1997

I stay contentwhile you’reaway

Who will pamper your pets, secure yourhome, baffle the burglars and reduceyour insurance premium?

To book, or for a brochure call 01296 630 730or visitwww.homesitters.co.uk

What makes an Albion bath unique?Our exclusive bath material creates a difference you can feel....

Request your brochure on: 01255 831605 or go to: www.albionbathco.com

ALBIONHandmade bathrooms directly from our factory

FOR DETAILS OF CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PLEASE TELEPHONE 020 3728 6260 OR VISIT WWW.HEARSTMAGAZINESDIRECT.CO.UK JUNE 2016 175

Doors & Windows

House & Garden

House Signs

Furniture & Furnishings

Housesitting

Bathrooms

No risk 21 day moneyback home trial . 5 year hardwood frame guarantee

DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

For a free colour brochure call 01495 244226 or visit www.sofasofa.co.uk

GREAT BRITISH SOFAS

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S CUMB L GOOS I E“Extraordinary name. Extraordinary furniture.”

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www.kirkdale.co.ukFOR A FREE BROCHURE CALL 01495 243999

Woburn 3 seater sofa was £599 - NOW ONLY £449

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Beds & Bedding

Home Interest

Call 0345 164 5090 www.jamesgrace.co.uk/countryliving

James Grace Staircases @JGStaircases

We make it easier than ever to create a new or renovate your existing staircase in as little as 48 hours. Make a statement in your home.

Call now for a free design appointment.

*Applies to a £5,000 + VAT order. Minimum order value £2,000 + VAT. Offer valid until 25th May 2016. Full T&C’s on website.

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Keep your home beautiful with our stylish range of wipeable tablecloths.

Wipe Easy TableclothsLynx Trading Estate, YEOVIL BA20 2HL T: 01935 434700SEE US IN STORE - OR ONLINEwww.creamerykitchens.co.uk

CL0

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Enjoy a visit to Dairy House Antiques, where you will fi nd an ever-changing array of

antiques and vintage items for the home and garden. Open 7 days a week, free parking

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To view our entire range or to order your free colour brochure call 01443 771222 or visit www.thomaslloyd.com

Great BritishFurniture Makers of Fine Leather Furniture

for Generations

● British Standard tested and approved ● Made in our ownUK factory ● Direct from the factory prices ● 21 day

money-back promise ● 2 year guarantee

CHESTERFIELD 3 SEATER SOFAWAS £1299 - NOW ONLY £899

Madrid-sofa was

£369 - now only

£269

SOFAS & CHAIRS DIRECT

For a free brochure call 01685 844944or visit www.oakridgedirect.co.uk

CONTEMPORARY SOFAS DIRECT FROMTHE MANUFACTURER

The Braided Rug Company

We also make placemats and baskets!

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Placemat sets from £25

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www.braided-rug.co.uk

[email protected]

Whether its traditional or classic, fitted or freestanding, our kitchensand bathrooms are refreshingly different. Register online for a

brochure and free no obligation design service.

Commissions fulfilled throughout UK,Europe and worldwide.

Hope House High Street Moreton-in-Marsh Glos GL56 0LHwww.unfitted.co.uk [email protected] 01608 650065

All the ingredients for a perfect kitchen

An exclusive collection of well- designed, high quality fabrics

and soft furnishing items that will make any house a stylish home.

www.limetreetextiles.co.uk07887 946599


COVELLI TENNANT

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www.covellitennant.com

www.thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk01443 831981

The Foo tstoo lWo rkshop

SALVO FAIR

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UK's best show for architectural and garden antiques, reclamation and salvage

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C L V J U N 1 6

The finest of British Country Outbuildings

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Est 1909High Street, Strood, Kent ME2 4DR

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General Interest

I’m the sort of person who gets cabin fever if I’m stuck inside for too long; I love being outdoors. Mornings are my favourite time to be out – it gets you active and sets the tone for the rest of the day. I usually take my two dogs – both ‘spoodles’ – for a walk after I’ve dropped my daughters [Phoebe, 15, and Zoe, 12], at school. I live in London but Richmond Park and Wimbledon Common are both close by, and I try to find the quiet spots. If there aren’t many people around, I might have a little stretch while the dogs run about. I know Richmond Park well – I moved into White Lodge [The Royal Ballet’s Lower School] when I was 13. It was quite surreal at the time, going from a block of flats in central London to a school surrounded by trees, deer and so much history. I felt very privileged and it was such a beautiful place to explore.

We lived in the suburbs of Sydney for five years from 2008 and we loved all the bays along the coast there. The walk to school was along the foreshore and on the way home, we’d stop and do homework at picnic tables in the shade. It’s funny, though, because living abroad did give me a new perspective on the UK. We have these wonderful spaces here, and I now realise we’re so lucky to have such a diverse mix of countryside on this small island. We must hang on to these areas and protect them.In Australia we felt so much better after spending lots of time outside that when we moved back to the UK,

we wanted to bring a bit of that life with us. So in the summer months, we try to do something outdoorsy together after school. We sometimes go for family bike rides. Last summer my husband [Australian businessman Angus Forbes] and daughter cycled through France – they did 620 miles in five days. It was a huge achievement for Phoebe as she was only 14 at the time. When the people from David Austin phoned up ten years ago to ask about naming a rose after me, I couldn’t believe it. It’s such a great flower; it has a beautiful colour and smells absolutely amazing. We’ve got a couple in my garden, but my mum has rows and rows of them in hers in France. She’s a very keen and able gardener. My grandmother was the same – she could take the smallest cutting and turn it into a beautiful plant. I have

the enthusiasm but lack the skill! I’m keen to learn, though. I love being by the sea, particularly Poole in Dorset, especially at this

time of year. We love taking the boat from there across

to Brownsea Island, which is so unspoilt. The area also seems to have its own

microclimate. My favourite thing is to take the dogs

for a coastal walk – hopefully one that’s

long enough to warrant a hearty pub lunch at the end.

Former principal dancer for The Royal Ballet, Darcey Bussell fronts Quaker #SuperStart campaign, encouraging the nation to kick-start their day with a nutritious breakfast of wholegrain porridge oats.

The retired ballerina and Strictly Come Dancing judge on the diversity of rural Britain and enjoying bracing coastal walks

DARCEY BUSSELL

FROM LEFT Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island’s balmy climate makes the area a popular choice for Darcey and her family; the deep crimson ‘Darcey Bussell’ rose

We are so lucky to

have such a mix of

countryside

MY COUNTRYSIDE


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retreatsROMANTIC

42 MAGICAL PLACES TO STAY

L O O K I N G F O R L O V E ?Are you a single person who enjoys the countryside and is searching for a soulmate? Or maybe you know someone who is looking for love?

W E ’ R E H E R E T O H E L P !Since the launch of Farmer Wants a Wife in 1999, Country Living Magazine has been successfully helping countrymen and women find love – wedding bells have rung and happy families have grown. Now, to build on our proven track record, we have launched our new website, Country Loving – country-loving.co.uk. Working in

partnership with Yeo Valley, the family-run, organic dairy brand from Somerset, the Country Living dating story continues. This time it could include you…

H O W T O S I G N U PSimply visit country-loving.co.uk, follow the steps to sign up and let us do the rest. We’re even offering a one-week trial subscription to Country Loving. To take up this special offer, create a profile at country-loving.co.uk and enter FREEFAIR16 as the voucher code on the ‘subscribe’ page*. And do keep in touch, as we’d love to hear how you get on! Email [email protected].

CALLING ALL SINGLE COUNTRY LOVERS!

*Offer expires on 31 October 2016. No credit or debit card details necessary. Members must be aged 18 and over.

THERE IS SOMETHING very magical about the thought of getting away from it all, leaving behind the stresses and strains of everyday life and escaping to a haven where you can savour the peace and quiet while doing as much or as little as you choose.

Whether you want to retreat alone, take a friend or make it a family affair, there is a wonderful variety of unusual accommodation available, from vintage vehicles and cool caravans to beachside boltholes and woodland wagons, all in beautiful areas of the UK. I hope our pick of secluded places to visit will inspire you to find your own great escape.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFCOUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE

4 AIRSTREAM CARAVANS

6 BARGES & HOUSEBOATS

8 BEACH HUTS

10 BOTHIES

12 ECO CABINS

14 FARM BUILDINGS

16 GLAMPING TENTS

18 GYPSY WAGONS

20 RAILWAY CARRIAGES

22 SHEPHERDS’ HUTS

24 TREEHOUSES

26 VINTAGE VEHICLES

28 YURTS

30 TABERNACLES & CHAPELS

Published with the June 2016 issue of Country Living MagazineAll prices and details correct at time of going to press. © The National Magazine Company Ltd trading as Hearst Magazines UK 2016. Published by Hearst Magazines UK, 72 Broadwick Street, London W1F 9EP (Reg no 112955). All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, or by any means, without the prior written permission of the copyright holders. Printed and bound by Precision Colour Printing Limited.

WORDS Alex ReeceDEPUTY EDITOR Louise ElliottART EDITOR Roger BrowningCREATIVE DIRECTOR Darren Holdway PICTURE EDITOR Patricia TaylorCHIEF SUB-EDITOR Michele JamesonPH

OTO

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VINTAGE VACATIONS RYDE, ISLE OF WIGHTHelen and Frazer Cunningham were way ahead of the curve when they first launched their award-winning Airstream caravan glamping business on the Isle of Wight 12 years ago. They now have 13 classic American trailers on a rural

site near Ryde and continue to offer the same authentic mid- century experience – with a free bottle of Babycham for each Airstream stay. Everything in the caravans is either original or in keeping, as the couple prefer to restore

American dream

RETRO STYLE

WITH ALL

MOD CONS

4 ROMANTIC RETREATS

rather than refurbish. The oldest of their aluminium classics, the 1946 Spartan Manor, comes complete with period details such as a cocktail cabinet, and is set at the end of a row, away from the family accommodation, making it ideal for couples. Their smallest Airstreams, the 1960s Safaris, are also perfect for two – make yourself at home in the dinette seating booth with an old-school boardgame while tucking into the tasty homemade cake provided. If you need anything more, free-range eggs are available from the working farm where the trailers are based, which overlooks Brading Downs, and breakfast packs can be pre-ordered. A sweet ‘Shop-in-a-Shed’ sells vintage objects and handmade tea cosies if you fancy re-creating the look back home. Caravans have hot showers and a bathroom sink (a toilet and shower block is on site), plus full-size cookers and fridges. The regular dining events are incredibly popular – sign up to the newsletter to receive notice of forthcoming dates. Caravans sleep two to four. From £150 for a two-night weekend (vintagevacations.co.uk).

HAPPY DAYS RETRO VACATIONS SAXMUNDHAM, SUFFOLKThere are six American Airstreams at this Suffolk glampsite

(which re-located from Dorset in 2015), complete with wood-panelled interiors, gingham curtains and retro home accessories. All have WCs and sinks on board, plus external

awnings and a firepit for cooking. Caravans sleep four to five. From £220 for a two-night weekend (happydaysrv.co.uk).

THE PARK MAWGAN PORTH, CORNWALLJust 400 metres from the sandy beach at Mawgan Porth,

this smart holiday park has three vintage American trailers – one of which still looks as it would have done in the

1950s, while the others have been fully refurbished inside with all mod cons. Caravans sleep two (plus two children).

From £650 per week (airstreamholidays.co.uk).

ROMANTIC RETREATS 5

AIRSTREAM CARAVANS

HARBOUR HOUSEBOAT BEMBRIDGE, ISLE OF WIGHTSturdy the houseboat was built on the hull of a 72ft Thames lighter (a barge used for transporting goods up and down the river). And, as its owners, Georgina Moore and her partner James, also live on a houseboat on the River

Thames, they have fitted out their floating holiday home with expertise. A surprisingly spacious living/kitchen/diner has been decorated with a suitably maritime accent – a navy-blue sofa and a zinc- topped table are offset by

Shoreline shelters

BARGES & HOUSEBOATS

upcycled pieces of furniture and local art. Views here extend across the Solent as far as the mainland (use the telescope to get a closer look). On the roof is a viewing deck, ideal for sundowners and watching the sea-going traffic drift by, as the houseboat rises and falls with the tide. A fully fitted kitchen with range cooker allows guests to make the most of the local seafood: Bembridge is known for its crab, and being moored at the harbour makes it easy to buy fresh fish from the day boats. Across two levels, there are four large bedrooms – two of which have Loaf king-size beds – and two smart bathrooms. The boat also has a bio-plant treatment system, which returns clear water to the harbour. Step ashore to discover the village of Bembridge, with its crab shack, pubs, restaurants and shops – the nearest beach is just five minutes away. Get active on the island’s coastal path and 200 miles of cycle routes. Or visit the historic sites of Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle. Sleeps six. From £198 per night; three-night minimum stay (canopyandstars.co.uk).

BLAGDON WATER HOLSWORTHY, DEVON As the three traditional canal barges moored at Blagdon Water are spaced far apart, each with its own jetty and picnic area, you can enjoy the lake setting in total privacy. Located on the border between Devon and Cornwall, all have en-suite cabins, a light-filled galley living space and a heritage feel. Sleeps four

to five. From £450 per week (blagdonwater.com).

TWEE GEBROEDERS PIN MILL, SUFFOLKA cherry-red oil-fired range forms the centrepiece of this beautifully restored 1914 Dutch sailing barge on the River

Orwell, whose interior is panelled in tongue-and-groove with striped soft furnishings. It’s also close to the renowned

Butt & Oyster pub and 85 acres of National Trust woodland. Sleeps four. From £125 per night (heritage-travel.co.uk).

TOTALLY

PRIVATE

SETTING

THE LIMIT HOLYWELL BAY, CORNWALLWhen Steve and Rebecca Peck first came across this clapperboard 1930s beachhut at Holywell Bay, near Newquay, it had been left untouched for ten years and

was overgrown with ivy and brambles. Undeterred, they bought it and spent the next four years restoring it into a high-end haven for couples, doing much of the work

themselves, and opening for business in 2011. The original beach hut now houses the kitchen, diningand living area – while asympathetic contemporary

Beach boltholes

build next door, clad in local Cornish chestnut, serves as a king-size double bedroom and en suite. Here, floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the marine views and indoor/outdoor living – the property also comes with two acres of grounds, plus an outdoor deck with a chimenea and barbecue. In the ‘living’ hut, a cabin-style decorative scheme incorporates a woodburner, and vintage surfboards in the rafters chime with the oceanfront setting. Holywell Bay, a National Trust beach, has its own surf school and there are lovely coastal walks through the dunes. The ‘secret’ beach of Porth Joke, only accessible on foot, is the other side of the headland. And, of course, the many culinary delights of the North Cornish food scene – Fifteen Cornwall, plus Rick Stein and Nathan Outlaw’s eating places – are all within striking distance. Sleeps two. From £535 for a three-night weekend or four-night weekday stay (uniquehomestays.com).

THE SHACK COWES, ISLE OF WIGHTIn a secret location on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, The Shack offers a laid-back yet design-conscious escape close to

the water’s edge. Spend lazy afternoons relaxing in the hammock, or paddling in the sea, before lighting the barbecue or cosying up by the stove in the Fifties-look living room. Sleeps four. From £170 for a two-night midweek break (vintagevacations.co.uk).

TWENTY SIX ANDERBY CREEK, LINCOLNSHIREA Modernist classic built in 1959, this two-bed cabin has a lakeside setting near the Blue Flag beach of Anderby Creek. Refurbished under the guidance of an award-winning architect, it has a Nordic grey colour palette, a roomy living/kitchen-diner and mid-century artworks. Sleeps up to five. From £490 per week (anderbycreek.eu).

Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the

marine views and indoor/outdoor living

PRIVATE GARDEN WITH

LAKE VIEW

ROMANTIC RETREATS 9

BEACH HUTS

Small is beautifulTHE BOTHY BROUGHTON- IN-FURNESS, CUMBRIA

The upside-down layout of The Bothy makes the most

of the Lakeland views, encompassing England’s

highest mountain, Scafell Pike. From the open-plan living

room/kitchen/diner, wooden steps lead down to an en-suite

double bedroom. Rustic features include a logburning

stove and a slipper bath. Sleeps two. From £ 220

for four nights (woodendhouse.co.uk).

PEEL BOTHY HEXHAM, NORTHUMBERLAND

Dating from the 1850s, this one-storey cottage, previously used as a walker’s bothy, lies

in remote, craggy countryside that is close to Hadrian’s Wall.

Exposed beams and traditional furnishings add

to its away-from-it-all charm and there are great hikes to be

had from the front door. Sleeps two. From £300 for three nights (nationaltrust

holidays.org.uk).WONDERFUL

WALKS

NEARBY

10 ROMANTIC RETREATS

LA’AL BOTHY ISLE OF HARRIS, OUTER HEBRIDESThis diminutive stone-clad bolthole was hand-built in 2011-2012 by Alan and Ellen MacDougall, who were inspired by the traditional blackhouses of the Outer Hebrides. It stands in the grounds of their home (another self-build project) to provide an eco-friendly escape for honeymooners, surfers and those wishing to experience island life. The bothy has a turf roof (made with the original turf from the site – so that it recedes into the landscape), solar panels,

which provide hot water, LED lighting and a wind turbine. The characterful pieces of furniture – such as the four-poster and bunk beds, plus the Scandi-style sofa – have been handmade by professional carpenter Alan (excepting the modern kitchen). A woodburning stove, underfloor heating, insulation and full-size bath make this a cosy place to be in

all weathers. From the La’al Bothy, there are direct views of Scarista Beach – a three- mile arc of white sand. Beyond this, you can look out over the island of Taransay (made famous by the BBC’s Castaway series) and the Atlantic, where porpoises swim by. Outings include exploring the ancient sites and standing stones (the Callanish Stones on the

adjoining island of Lewis is older than Stonehenge). Sleeps six. From £420

per week; short breaks often available (laalbothy.co.uk).

An eco-friendly escape for those wishing to experience island life

BOTHIES

THE CABIN SOUND OF SLEAT, ISLE OF SKYEThe award-winning, turf-roofed Cabin blends so seamlessly into its surroundings, you can drive past and not notice it is there. Built in 2012 and designed to have minimal impact on the environment, it has

eco-friendly features such as ground-source heating, an air-recovery system and state-of-the-art glazing – while its larch cladding has silvered with age to render it almost invisible. The wraparound windows in the open-plan

living space afford incredible views over the natural harbour of Isleornsay, across the Sound of Sleat to the mountains of Kintail and the Knoydart Peninsula on the Scottish mainland. More gripping than any box set is the natural

Natural selection

drama unfolding outdoors: pods of dolphins, a family of otters and even elusive pine martens have all been sighted from this coastal enclave. That said, there is a TV and DVD player, plus Netflix via broadband, to keep guests otherwise entertained. The split-level, single-storey design includes two bedrooms, a bathroom and en suite, plus a book-lined study. The property is set in a third of an acre of private land along with a picnic area close to the water’s edge and lies on the south of the island, easily reached from the Skye Bridge and via the ferry from Mallaig. It is minutes from the Eilean Iarmain Hotel and Kinloch Lodge, both of which offer fine dining. By day, you have Skye to experience: the Cuillin mountains for walking and climbing, the Fairy Pools for wild swimming, or take a boat trip around the wildlife-rich shoreline. Sleeps four. From £660 for three nights (thecabin-skye.co.uk).

ANNIE’S CABIN LUDLOW, SHROPSHIREThis Finnish-style cabin, built with Douglas fir logs from nearby Mid-Wales, has inspiring green technologies such as a wood-

pellet stove, solar-water heating, induction hob and low-energy lighting. It is set in a river meadow, with two bedrooms, a

walk-in shower and well-equipped kitchen. Sleeps four (plus two extra). From £ 250 for a short break (ludlowecologcabins.co.uk).

ADAM, EVE & APPLE E-DENS GLASTONBURY, SOMERSETIn a quiet paddock, with views of Glastonbury Tor, are three

tear-shaped eco pods, hand-built for glamping by local craftsmen. Each has a double bed, private bathroom (a short

walk away) and outdoor cooking facilities. Includes use of a heated swimming pool. Sleeps two. From £140 for

a two-night stay (qualityunearthed.co.uk).

OUTDOOR

COOKING AREA

Pods of dolphins, a family of otters and even elusive pine

martens have all been sighted from this

enclave

ROMANTIC RETREATS 13

ECO CABINS

THE RED BARN PANCRASWEEK, HOLSWORTHY, DEVONIf a keen sense of style is evident throughout this newly renovated, 100-year-old farm building, that might be because its owners, Karen and Conrad Allen, both work in the fashion industry. When they first moved from the

capital to this relatively untouched part of the Devon/Cornwall border in 2007, The Red Barn was little more than a shell. “It had a roof and four walls but nothing inside it at all,” Karen says. But, with the help of Conrad’s architect

Down on the farm

PHO

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father, they have brought the property back to useful life as a chic holiday let. The reverse- level layout has resulted in a large kitchen/dining space with living area and woodburner on the upper floor, which leads out seamlessly onto a deck and large private garden. The interior is flooded with light and crisply decorated with a mix of reclaimed and new pieces, plus regularly changing artworks. On the lower floor, the two bedrooms have feature walls papered in contemporary floral prints. Guests are invited to walk around the farmstead and collect fresh eggs each morning from the Allen family’s hens. Their wild-flower meadow, managed in conjunction with the Devon Wildlife Trust, will be in full bloom around now. A breakfast hamper is provided for every stay, along with fresh flowers, and Karen and Conrad supply a map highlighting all the local things they love to do, such as cycling along the Camel Trail and taking a dip in the Bude Sea Pool at Summerleaze Beach. Sleeps four. From £495 for a three-night break (venn-farm.co.uk).

THE PIGGERY GAYTON THORPE, NORFOLKThis west Norfolk former piggery has been stunningly converted with an air of rough luxe: there are timber-clad walls in the living room and the kitchen is a blend of chipboard and stainless steel. Also to be found on this family-run farm are an indoor pool, spa

and steam room. Sleeps four. From £650 for a three-night weekend or four-night midweek break (greatbarnfarm.co.uk).

COWEY COTTAGE PORTAFERRY, CO DOWNClose to the shores of Strangford Lough, Cowey Cottage – a

19th-century former farm building – has been renovated by owner Sarah Wilson with exposed stone walls and flagstone flooring.

And with a superking-size bed and lavish, locally sourced welcome pack, you can’t fail to feel pampered. Sleeps four. From £ 95 per

night, minimum two-night stay (coweycottage.com).

UNDERFLOOR

HEATING AND

WOODBURNER


FARM BUILDINGS

Under canvasKATA CABINS, FFOREST CAMP

CILGERRAN, PEMBROKESHIRE Founded in 2005 by Sian Tucker and James Lynch,

fforest has a range of thoughtful accommodation across three sites in West Wales. Their own-design

Kata Cabin tents are on the 200-acre fforest farm, along

the Teifi Gorge, and have built-in bunks, a woodburner,

power and a fully enclosed kitchen and dining pod. Sleeps five. From £347 for a three-night

break (coldatnight.co.uk).

BAREFOOT GLAMPING HELSTON, CORNWALL

A world away from conventional camping, these two safari tents

(plus one tin tent) on the Lizard Peninsula have en-suite showers and are accessorised with covetable cowskin rugs,

enamelware crockery and Robin Day chairs. What’s more, the honesty shop stocks local

produce. Sleeps four to six. From £411 per week; short

breaks available in winter, spring and autumn

(barefoot-glamping.co.uk).


LANTERN & LARKS BLEASDALE, LANCASHIREThis deeply rural Lancashire site will help visitors to unplug from their everyday lives in accommodation that’s anything but basic. The five glamping tents here are so homely, they could be described as canvas cottages. Their three-bedroom design is based around an open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner, with wooden decking throughout, and each has a shower room with WC. A wood-fired range provides warmth and cooking

facilities. From the tents’ terrace, there are captivating views down the valley, where wild deer can be spotted on the banks of the River Brock. On the Bleasdale Estate, where the tents are located, there is direct access to the footpath network through the Forest of Bowland AONB,

distinguished by its heather moorland, dry-stone walls and ancient sites. The Bleasdale Circle, a Bronze- Age earthwork – possibly aligned with the sunrise of the summer solstice – can be reached in 20 minutes on foot. Alternatively, hire a bike and cycle to Chipping for a pint at the pub. Sleeps six. From £385 for a weekend break; parties of four or less receive 15 per cent off (lanternandlarks.co.uk).

If you’ve forgotten anything, an honesty shop has provisions to buy and

games to borrow


GLAMPING TENTS

LITTLE RED GYPSY WAGON RHAYADER, POWYSThe Upper Wye Valley is an area of Mid-Wales still pretty undiscovered by tourists. Those who come here are often drawn by the thrilling

proximity to wildlife, and a holiday in this traditional, Romany bow-top wagon – which the owners found and restored themselves – offers

the ultimate back-to-nature experience. Based on an organic farm, Little Red’s guests have access to a treehouse (also a filming

Traveller’s rest

AN IDYLLIC

AND UNSPOILT

SETTING


location for Springwatch), where they can observe or feed wild badgers in the evenings. There are 200 acres of farmland to explore, which leads to walking and biking trails through mountains and moorland, or you can stroll along a private boardwalked area of the riverbank. Close at hand, the red kite feeding centre – visited by numbers of these graceful birds of prey each day – is a 15-minute drive. The wagon itself, with its bird, animal and fruit paintings, makes for a dreamy sleeping space, housing a cosy double bed (which folds away into a daybed) and seating area. A shepherd’s hut next door – an upcycled horsebox – contains a kitchen, dining area and shower room with underfloor heating. The duo moves around according to season: in summer, you’ll find yourself in a meadow with a chimenea to use as an outdoor fire or barbecue, fuelled by sustainable wood from the farm. Sleeps two. From £250 for a three-night weekend (underthethatch.co.uk).

RAMBLING ROSE CARAVAN LOSTWITHIEL, CORNWALLOriginally built in Penzance in the 1930s, Rambling Rose has

been re-built to incorporate a pull-out bed, woodburning stove, modern cooking hob, brass paraffin lamps and electricity.

A cottage-garden setting adds to the feel of nostalgia, against a backdrop of the meandering River Fowey. Sleeps two. From

£160 for a short weekend break (ramblingrosecaravan.co.uk).

WANDERLUSTS GYPSY CARAVANS PENRITH, CUMBRIATravel (under guidance) through Cumbria from camp to camp in a horse-drawn bow-top caravan. Your hosts will set you up with a fire before leaving you to relax in the great outdoors. Two static

Romany caravans are also available by Lake Windermere. Sleeps up to five. From £ 200 for a three-night weekend or four-night

midweek break. Statics from £65 per night (wanderlusts.co.uk).

Borrow a bike and enjoy the freedom of the long-distance cycle routes that go through the farm


GYPSY WAGONS

COASTAL CARRIAGE ROSEHEARTY, ABERDEENSHIRE“Everything we do is very much re-use, recycle,” says Carole Short, who, along with husband Matthew, runs this unique reclaimed railway carriage at their 200-acre beef farm on Scotland’s north-east

coast. The couple rescued the dilapidated 1930s passenger van from a nearby croft, where it had been used for storage and was about to be destroyed. Instead, Carole and Matthew took it home and spent six to seven months

Heritage havens


carefully re-building it into what it is today – taking in their first guests from May 2015. The Shorts are keen on giving disused items a second life: the WC (which contains a compost loo), bush shower cubicle and the dining table have been creatively fashioned out of discarded telephone cable reels. Water comes from their own spring and they have recently installed a solar panel to power the carriage’s lighting. The property, which has a woodburner and single- ring gas stove, is off-grid, but, says Carole: “Keeping everything primitive really seems to appeal to people.” The Banffshire coastline is famous for its dolphins and, on a clear day, you can spot them from the carriage, where the sea views stretch across the Moray Firth to the Sutherland Hills on the other side. Mainland Scotland’s only gannetry at Troup Head is a ten-minute drive. And, as the area is largely off the beaten tourist trail, you’re likely to have many of the stunning beaches to yourself. Sleeps two (plus one child). From £70 per night; minimum two-night stay (coastalcarriage.co.uk).

THE OLD STATION ALLERSTON, NORTH YORKSHIREThe three railway carriages at Allerston, on the boundary of the North York Moors, are all former First Class corridor stock, dating

from the late 1960s. Refurbished to include central heating, kitchens and bathrooms, they retain British Rail details such as luggage racks and passenger seats. Sleeps up to six. From £ 246

for a three-night break (theoldstationallerston.co.uk).

CLIFFTOP RAILWAY CARRIAGE ABERPORTH, CEREDIGIONThere are panoramic views of Cardigan Bay from this Edwardian

railway carriage, set high above Aberporth Beach. Its interior has been re-modelled to feature a contemporary-style kitchen/living/dining room, with French doors opening onto a sun deck, and the bedroom has a freestanding roll-top bath. Sleeps two.

From £380 per week (welsh-cottages.co.uk).

TRAVEL BACK

IN TIME IN A

‘SLEEPER’


RAILWAY CARRIAGES

WRIGGLY TIN HUTS HAMBLEDON, HAMPSHIREThere is much to soothe an urban soul at Wriggly Tin in the South Downs National Park, from the five traditional shepherds’ huts, with their lovingly curated vintage-style interiors to the lack of wi-fi

and electricity, enabling guests to take life at a slower pace. These pleasingly low-tech wagons, harking back to the 19th century, when shepherds used them to remain close to

their flock at all times, have been hand-built by Plankbridge Hutmakers in Dorset. Each has a woodburning stove, luxury bed linen and a character all

of its own. ‘Butser’,

Hideaway huts

ALL HUTS ARE IN STUNNING LOCATIONS


for example, is popular for romantic breaks, owing to its timeless feel – panelled wood walls painted in shades of pale grey and apple green are complemented by quirky details such as a pull-out dining table and reclaimed shop signage. ‘Old Winchester’, meanwhile, is a genuine, 100-year-old shepherd’s hut, now restored to its former glory, and sought after owing to its sheltered location in a woodland dell, close to the site’s wood-fired hot tub. Smart washing facilities – including innovative compost loos – can be found in a dedicated, separate hut. So, after a leisurely breakfast (hampers made up of local produce and home-cooked meals can be pre-ordered), visitors might embark on the South Downs Way, to take in a ridge-top panorama of the Isle of Wight, the New Forest, Sussex and Surrey, before returning to prepare dinner on the campfire. Bicycles are also available to hire: arrive on foot, and you get a day’s free bicycle hire; arrive by bike and you receive a free breakfast hamper. Huts sleep two to five. From £ 90 per night (wrigglytinhuts.co.uk).

THE SALTY SHEPHERD CAMBER SANDS, EAST SUSSEXCombining the best of countryside and coast, this stylish hut

– furnished as far as possible with pieces made locally – stands on a secluded farmer’s field overlooking the Walland

and Romney Marsh. The seven-mile stretch of Camber Sands beach is a ten-minute walk away. Sleeps two. From £ 90 per

night for four nights or more (thesaltyshepherd.co.uk).

CWT CRANNOG LLANGRANNOG, CEREDIGIONThe accommodation at Cwt Crannog is cleverly divided

between two custom-built farmworkers’ huts – one housing the bedroom and the other the kitchen and bathroom. A private, one-acre wild meadow is yours to enjoy, with sweeping views

down to Cardigan Bay. Sleeps four. From £ 227 for a three-night weekend (underthethatch.co.uk).


SHEPHERDS’ HUTS

BENSFIELD TREEHOUSE WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX What could be more romantic than walking across a rope bridge to spend the night in a boutique treehouse? This circular Sussex hideout was the first project built by Simon and Andy Payne, founders of Blue Forest (blueforest.com), which

specialises in luxury treehouses and sustainable buildings. The siblings grew up in Kenya, where an outdoor childhood gave them a passion for climbing trees and being creative with natural materials. The Bensfield Treehouse, built

Woodland wonders


on their family farm, was originally their office – but once their team grew too big (they now build treehouses for schools, businesses and celebrities), they re-located, and their parents run the space as a holiday let. A feat of clever engineering, the timber construction is wrapped around a living oak. The fit-out is high- end, with central heating, a curved, fitted kitchen, king-size bed, TV and an en-suite shower room. From the outdoor deck, you can look out over a pond (across which the 24-metre rope bridge is slung), mature trees and 44 acres of private farmland. Guests are treated to a hamper of local produce on arrival, but, for essentials, the pretty village of Wadhurst is nearby, as are the attractions of the High Weald AONB – such as the gardens at Sissinghurst Castle and Great Dixter – or even the Sussex coast. Sleeps two. From £368 for a two-night stay (qualityunearthed.co.uk).

LIVING ROOM TREEHOUSE MACHYNLLETH, POWYS Choose from one of six individually designed, contemporary-style treehouses, built 30 feet off the ground on an organic sheep farm bordering Snowdonia. Accessed by spiral stairs,

they are off-grid, but come with double beds, hot spring-water showers and woodburning stoves. Sleeps two (plus two

children’s bunks). From £127 per night (canopyandstars.co.uk).

BROCKLOCH TREEHOUSE KIRKPATRICK DURHAM, DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY

This timber eco eyrie stands on stilts in an idyllic bluebell wood frequented by red squirrels, and is furnished with Scandi-style simplicity (without wi-fi or TV). The built-in double bed has a skylight for stargazing, as does the washroom with a sunken

bath. Sleeps two. From £155 per night (canopyandstars.co.uk).

WATCH THE

STARS FROM

THE SKYLIGHT

The oak tree grows through the centre of

the living space, so guests feel closer to the

natural world


TREEHOUSES

‘GES’ THE HORSEBOX CHIDDINGFOLD, SURREYMotorhomes don’t get much cuter than Ges the vintage horsebox. “As soon as we saw her, it was love at first sight,” admits owner Yvonne Harris, “even though she looked a

little forlorn.” When she and husband Gary (who are street- food caterers and gardeners by trade) came across the 1975 Bedford TK lorry in a magazine in 2011, she had been standing

neglected for ten years. They spent the spring and summer of 2012 renovating, adding furnishings such as a king- size cabin bed and 100-year-old pine floorboards to the

Classic campersPH

OTO

GRA

PH B

Y PE

TER

WRI

GH

T


interior. Retro fabrics and accessories were sourced at charity shops and second-hand furniture stores – and Yvonne crocheted the blankets herself. Ges (pronounced Jess – the name comes from the three main letters on her number plate) now resides on a friend’s farm outside Chiddingfold, tucked away in a field, by woodland that is carpeted with bluebells in springtime. Cooking facilities and a woodburning stove are contained within the vehicle, while the washroom is located in a 1970s horse trailer, nicknamed Baby Ges, which has a walk-in shower. A welcome hamper is filled with seasonal home-grown or local produce, including eggs from Yvonne and Gary’s hens. Pack the picnic basket provided for outings to Arundel Castle and West Wittering Beach. Sleeps two adults (plus two children under 14 at an additional charge). From £145 per night for two adults (mycoolholiday.co.uk).

BIG GREEN BUS LEWES, EAST SUSSEX A 1982 West Midlands Metro bus has been imaginatively

converted into a spacious holiday let complete with lounge/diner, full-size kitchen and wet room in the Sussex countryside.Its re-purposed bus fittings add to the spirit of fun. Use of the

wood-fired hot tub and campfire hampers can be booked for an additional fee. Sleeps six. From £160 per night (biggreenbus.co.uk).

O’CONNORS CAMPERS OKEHAMPTON, DEVON Survey the iconic landscape of Devon and Cornwall through the split screen or bay window of a classic VW camper van.

Based near Exeter, O’Connors Campers has 15 colourful vehicles from the 1960s and 70s, all fully restored with

new engines for easy driving. Sleeps two to six. From £325 for a three-night weekend (oconnorscampers.co.uk).

CHILL-OUT

SPACE ON THE

TOP DECK

The location, views and wildlife are so beautiful that you cannot help

but unwind


VINTAGE VEHICLES

TEAPOT LANE GLAMPING CO LEITRIM, IRELANDOne of the most memorable aspects of a stay at Teapot Lane is the campfire lit every evening, around which guests can gather to enjoy some music and a glass of wine before retiring for the night. Indeed,

the whole five-acre woodland site (where you’ll find four luxury yurts, plus a variety of other glamping options) gives couples and families the chance to re-connect. Far from the distractions of

modern life, you can immerse yourself instead in the exhilarating landscape of Ireland’s Atlantic coast. Founded in 2010 by Derval McGovern as the country’s first glamping site, Teapot

Cool and cosy

Lane’s Mongolian-style, hand-crafted tents feature traditional wooden lattice work on the inside, along with king-size beds, vintage-effect accessories and a woodburning stove. Further home comforts include hot showers and flushing loos, serviced sustainably by a reedbed and wetlands system. With a hint of festival cool, the communal kitchen and dining shelter are stylishly kitted out with retro kitchenalia (cups, glasses, plates and cutlery are provided) and a timber-hewn bar. And for couples wanting to unwind completely, the on-site spa offers holistic massages and reflexology treatments. Further afield, there are five beaches to be enjoyed within a five-mile radius – Bundoran, in neighbouring Co Donegal, is world-famous for its surfing scene. The distinctive, flat-topped silhouette of Benbulben mountain – immortalised in the poetry of WB Yeats – is also visible from Teapot Lane, tempting walkers and climbers to discover Co Sligo’s mythical Dartry range. Sleeps two to six. From €220 for two nights (glampingireland.ie).

WOODLAND TIPI & YURTS LITTLE DEWCHURCH, HEREFORDSHIRE The six yurts on this site were all made locally by British

craftspeople and are dotted around 12 acres of woodland. Each has its own hammock, firepit and firewood. Spend time cooking local produce (one of the two kitchens has a pizza oven) or walk

to the River Wye for a paddle and a picnic. Sleeps four to six. From £310 for three nights (woodlandtipis.co.uk).

SECRET CLOUD HOUSE HOLIDAYS LEEK, STAFFORDSHIREBook one of the yurts at this award-winning site on the edge of the Peak District National Park, and you can admire views of the Staffordshire Moorlands from your own, private wood-fired hot tub. The washrooms are solar-heated, and relaxing treatments

are on offer in the ‘Shepherd’s Rest’ hut. Sleeps two to five. From £300 for a weekend (secretcloudhouseholidays.co.uk).

LUXURIOUS

SUPER-KING-

SIZED BEDS


YURTS

Sacred sanctuariesTHE CHAPEL FORT WILLIAM,

HIGHLANDSQuirkily decorated with

newspaper-lined walls, copper baths and hand-built beds,

the converted chapel on the Corrour Estate is a remote

Highland getaway with no TV or radio (although there is

wi-fi). Spend the day walking, fishing or climbing one of

seven Munros in the locality, before relaxing with a dram by the fire. Sleeps ten. From £455

for a two-night break (cottages-and-castles.co.uk).

TY CAPEL RHIWDDOLION, BETWS-Y-COED, CONWY

Formerly a school and chapel, when Rhiwddolion was a busy

slate-quarrying community, Ty Capel was rescued from ruin by The Landmark Trust. It now has a gallery bedroom where

the only sounds you’re likely to hear are sheep and the stream

next door. Access is on foot from your parking spot ten minutes away. Sleeps three.

From £165 for four nights (landmarktrust.org.uk).

FULL OF

HISTORICAL

FEATURES


CORNISH TABERNACLE TOTNES, DEVONOpen since summer 2015, this idyllic couple’s retreat, based on a historic tin tabernacle design, was purpose-built in Cornwall using salvaged materials, and equipped with reclaimed furnishings, luxury bed linen, feature wallpaper and a freestanding Hobbit stove. From the private wood-fired hot tub and deck, there are views down the secluded valley. It is the perfect place to indulge in a spot of stargazing, as there is no light pollution, or traffic noise to disturb the peace. To add to the

feeling of escape, you are driven to the property from reception by Land Rover, although the farmstead setting means facilities are always close at hand. You can order breakfast or cassoulet dinners (made by owner Kate Tregoning) and pick them up at the on-site larder honesty shop – the eggs, rare-breed pork sausages and bacon all come from

Brownscombe Farm. Then there are board games and other activities on offer in the games room. Meanwhile, the multi-award-winning Church House Inn is just a 20-minute stroll away. Also nearby are the market town of Totnes and the sandy beaches of the South Hams – but, according to Kate (who has recently been celebrating the first engagement at the property), many visitors don’t want to stray too far from their hillside hideaway. Sleeps two. From £386 for three nights (brownscombe.co.uk).

At night, guests might catch sight of one of the

resident tawny owls, perched on the spire

TABERNACLES & CHAPELS

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