Royal Victoria Place magazine_Spring/Summer 2010

52
YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY ON THE BEACH AHOY THERE! ROAD TEST WIN Royal Place magazine Victoria SPRING/SUMMER 2010 HOT HOLIDAY STYLES FASHION’S GONE BOATING WE CHECK OUT THE ALFA MITO NEW SHOES FOR A YEAR westfield.com/rvp

description

Issue 3 of a stunning new magazine for Royal Victoria Place

Transcript of Royal Victoria Place magazine_Spring/Summer 2010

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

ON THE BEACH

AHOY THERE!

ROAD TEST

WIN

Royal

PlacePlacemagazine

Royal

Place

Royal

VictoriaSPRING/SUMMER 2010

BEACH

AHOY THERE!

ROAD TEST

WIN

HOT HOLIDAY STYLES

FASHION’S GONE BOATING

WE CHECK OUT THE ALFA MITO

NEW SHOES FOR A YEAR

RoyalRoyal

VictoriaVictoriaRoyal

VictoriaRoyal

westfi eld.com/rvp

3

Editor’s note

Published by

Advertising Director - Sharon Lacey [email protected] - Melissa Woodland [email protected] - Claire Hawkes [email protected]

Marketing & PR - Marc Burchett marc.burchett@westfi eld-uk.com

All prices and information correct at time of publication

Royal Victoria Place

Spring has sprung and Summer days are upon us. Here at Royal Victoria Place magazine, we’re feeling seriously inspired. Sombre shades are out and the fashion rails at the Centre are full of new collections just waiting for us to try them on

Welcome

So, in this issue we’re taking a look at some of Spring/

Summer 2010’s hottest looks. For the ladies, it’s pretty

blooms, nautical stripes and candy colours guaranteed

to make you smile. For the gents, double denim, short

cuts and lots of linen make the must-have list.

Booked a few weeks in the sun yet or are you

staycationing? Don’t start packing until you’ve checked

out our carefully chosen holiday essentials, including a

few celeb-style sunnies.

Love shoes? Well, we have a dream competition for you.

Royal Victoria Place magazine has teamed up with Offi ce

to offer you the chance to win a pair of shoes every month

for a year. It’s a fabulous prize worth nearly £1,000.

Plus, we take a spin in the new Alfa Romeo MiTo,

identify some of the cutest fashion trends for kids, get

adventurous with eyeshadows and fi nd our very own

chocolate factory just down the road.

Remember, if you want to stay up-to-date with what’s going

on in the Centre, simply visit us online at westfi eld.com/rvp

and sign up to our latest email newsletter.

Enjoy!

Melissa Woodland Editor

Contents

Contents6 ROYAL VICTORIA

PLACE NEWSThe latest from the Centre

9 FLORALS PICK OF THE BUNCHBlooming gorgeous fashion

10 ALL AT SEAMust-have nautical style

13 ONE SCOOP OR TWO?The season’s prettiest pastels

17 IN THE SHADEEssential eyewear for Summer

18 LIFE’S A BEACHGet ready for your days in the sun

21 ONE LOOK, THREE BUDGETSThe jacket that goes with everything

23 SHORT CUTSSummer suiting and laidback beachwear

28 AT YOUR SERVICERoyal Victoria Place gets to work

31 CENTRE A TO ZWhere to fi nd your favourite stores

33 COMPETITIONWin a new pair of shoes every month for a year

36 ON THE DRESSING TABLEThe best beauty buys

39 IT’S PLAYTIMEJunior style and toys for your little ones

42 EDITOR’S PICKSCupcakes, Macs and weekenders

45 THE MULTIAIR MITOWe roadtest the mighty little Alfa

50 A FACTORY FIT FOR CHARLIEThe Queen’s chocolatiers at work in TW

23

17

33

39

5

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

6

RVPNewsRecent ARRIVALS The Centre has opened its doors to a brace

of new fashion retailers. Topman and

Topshop are now established in the Centre,

offering the latest Summer styles, shoes

and accessories on level 1. Across the mall,

opposite Boots, Superdry has raised its

shutters to show its own brand of labelled

apparel. Be sure to check out their pretty

sundresses mixed in amongst the slogan

hoodies and T-shirts.

Danish jewellery retailer Pandora

has moved in next to Republic. Their

delightful charm bracelets are the

year’s must-have accessory and they’re

entirely customisable.

And, just in time for the warmer

weather, there’s an exciting new

kiosk opened in the Food Court.

Chilltime blend real chocolate bars into

milkshakes and you can choose from

over 1,000 fl avours.

WELL LABELLEDFenwick has expanded its

fashion portfolio with a

number of new labels arriving

at the department store.

In Contemporary women’s

fashion Marilyn Moore, Maison

Scotch and “I love my T’s”

are now available, while Nice

Things and Jackpot (pictured)

have moved into Ladies

Lifestyle. Pieces from the

latest collections by Guess

and Chilli Pepper are in

stock in Young Fashion, while

Menswear welcomes classics

style from Lyle & Scott and

Fred Perry.

6

With scores of outlets in Royal Victoria Place it’s

important you’re kept up to date with what’s

happening in the Centre, which is why we’ve been

keeping our ear to the ground. New stores, great

products, forthcoming events; it’s all here to make sure you don’t miss a thing

Sunday 20 JuneFATHER’S DAY Treat Dad to the perfect present for the man who has everything, a Westfi eld Gift Card, and he can fi nd something he loves in one of the 90 plus stores within the Centre.

Meet Dora the Explorer and Sponge Bob Squarepants at the Westfi eld Kids Club Summer events. See westfi eld.com/rvp for more details.

6

7

THE SUMMER IS

RICH WITH BANK

HOLIDAYS (MAY 3 AND

31, AUGUST 30) AND THE

CENTRE IS OPEN

10AM – 5PM FOR THAT

ESSENTIAL SEASONAL

SHOPPING

RVP News

Buyers REPORTWhat we should be wearing.

Michele Hughes – Contemporary

and Lifestyle Buyer, Fenwick.

“Spring/Summer 2010 offers a

variety of styles for us to try.

Nautical is the big theme for

Spring. Navy stripes are seen

on jersey tops, t-shirt dresses

and knits. Wear with denim or

leggings and bright accessories.

(See page 10 for more ideas).

Boyfriend blazers are back

for another season – a slightly

oversized jacket worn with sleeves

rolled up is a simple way to look

chic and be the height of fashion.

The Utility to Military look has a

feminine touch this time around.

Jackets and trousers in fl uid

shapes with metallic detail and

gold trim keep the style sharp.

For high-

Summer pastel

fl oral prints,

ruffl es and frills

are making a

comeback, creating

a softer silhouette.

The Denim vs.

Slouch Pant debate

continues. Denim

remains a very

strong look, worn

skinny with zips

cut at the ankle

or boyfriend jeans

worn with abrasions

and tears. But

comfort rules in

a pair of rolled up

slouch pants or

turned-up chinos.

And if you buy one

thing this season,

make it a shirt dress.

This statement piece

is a must have for

every wardrobe.”

What’s IN THE BAG?Trainee teacher Jenny Marlio, 22, is back home in TW for a job interview.

She popped into Royal Victoria Place for a little retail therapy.

“I live in Southampton at the moment, so it’s nice to be back in Tunbridge

Wells. I’ve bought a jumper and these gorgeous shoes in Topshop, but

I’m also going to restock my Mac cosmetics collection (you can’t get it

everywhere). I love that there are so many new shops since I was last here.

I’m going to Superdry in a minute!”

Reiss @ Fenwick

Friday 16 & Saturday 17 April FASHIONFEST’10 LIVE CATWALK SHOWSSee the latest fashion and beauty looks for Spring/Summer 2010 at Royal Victoria Place. Show times: 11am, 12pm, 1pm. 2.30pm, 3.30pm & 4.30pm, Food Court Terrace, level 1.

4 – 15 May BABY & TODDLER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION If your tot is pretty as a picture, come along to the Baby Photo Studio located on level 2 outside Boots. Entry is free and there are £500 worth of Westfi eld Gift Cards to be won.

A FRESH LOOK AT fashion!fenwick proudly hosts brands for both those who are looking for directional trendsetting fashion and also those who are looking for more casual easy to wear lifestyle items.

to keep up to date with fashion KEEP IN TOUCH WITH FENWICKfor your chance to win: A fabulous shopping experience at Fenwick, to include a £250 gift card to spend in store, a complimentary make-over courtesy of Bobbi Brown, a manicure by Nails Inc and a free lunch for you and a friend.Simply fill in your details below and return to: KEEP IN TOUCH WITH FENWICK, Fenwick Ltd, 101 Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN1 2SR

title forename surname

address

postcode

email

signed date

TICK THE BOX IF YOU DO NOT WANT FENWICK TUNBRIDGE WELLS TO SEND YOU DETAILS OF FORTHCOMING EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS. WE WILL NOT PASS YOUR DETAILS TO ANY THIRD PARTY.

Terms and conditions: This prize draw is not open to employees of Fenwick Ltd, employees of Concessions trading within Fenwick stores or their families. Closing date for entries 31st May 2010, when the winner will be drawn and notified by post.

lifes

tyle

liVin

g

lifes

tyle c

aters

for ev

eryon

e with

a co

lourfu

l

perso

nality

and

enjoy

s cou

ntry l

iving

. perf

ect fo

r

holid

ays,

weeke

nd re

treats

in th

e cou

ntry a

nd gr

eat a

mongs

t thos

e enjo

ying

the ro

unds

of m

usic

festiv

als. t

hese

garm

ents

are fu

nctio

nal, r

elaxe

d,

colou

rful a

nd ea

sy to

wea

r.

mixing

strip

es w

ith flora

ls, tw

eeds

with

silks

,

create

your

own i

ndivi

dual

style,

laye

ring

the ou

tfit and

delib

eratel

y clas

hing

colou

rs with

patte

rn. fe

nwick

hosts

barbou

r, Jou

les, g

reat p

lains

,

avoca

, sea

salt a

nd sa

ltwate

r, all

of whic

h hav

e grea

t co-o

rdina

ting

acce

ssori

es fro

m wate

rproo

f

jacke

ts an

d well

ies to

bags

,

scarv

es, p

ortab

le

chair

s, um

brella

s

and s

ocks

.

every

thing

you n

eed t

o

enjoy

yours

elf in

the g

reat

outdo

ors!

women’sfashion

With fl owers blooming indoors and out, we take a look at how to wear the season’s prettiest prints

Some

blossoms

appear to

have been

freshly

picked,

then lightly

scattered

over the fabrics. Others are bold

and abstract, with a strong,

modern edge. One thing is for

sure; fl orals are big this Summer.

From knee-length fi tted

dresses that wouldn’t look

out of place on Wisteria Lane

(Monsoon, Wallis @ Bhs,

Fenwick) to denim cut-offs with

a delicate print lining (£25 Jane

Norman), fl owery prints provide

an update for what you already

have in your wardrobe.

But the latest bunch of fl oral

pieces does not have to mean

‘girlie’. Team an abstract print

with distressed denims or throw

a biker-style leather jacket on

over a blossom print vest top

to keep the look contemporary

rather than cute.

Gorgeous patterns like these

mean we’re happy to be led down

the garden path. RVP

9

BunchPickof theFlorals

Bracelet £15, M & S

Blossom Dress £180, Monsoon

Tunic £25, Bhs

Cuff £15, Next

Skirt £21.99, River Island

Vest £19.99, Republic

Shorts £25, Jane Norman

Ring £7.50, M & S

Leather jacket £120, Silk printed top £22, twill trousers £22, all at Bhs

Halterneck maxi dress £79, M & S

Corsage bib £35, Wallis @ Bhs

Multi Firefl y Maxi Dress £70, MonsoonCollybrooke

dress £299, Hobbs

Stripe scoop neck top £25, satin washed skinny jeans £38, oval plastic sunglasses £8, all at Jane Norman

Garden of Eden dress £45, Great Plains @ Fenwick

Rhinestone necklace £100, Freedom @ Topshop

Seafaring style has dropped anchor at Royal Victoria Place. It’s time to walk the gang plank into a sea of red, white and navy

AllAt Seared, white and navy

10

Royal Victoria Place. It’s time

Seymour trousers £119, Hobbs

Pendant £45, Scarf £35, Cardigan £69, Vest £29, Belt £39, Stripe

jeans £79, Soft knot sandal £139, all at Hobbs

Blue Belle bow earrings £4, Accessorize

Stripe bow top £20, White jeans £22, both Bhs

Nautical wedges £18, Next

Necklace £8, NextRuffl e front

spot blouse £59, textured bangle £15, Ivory trousers £69 all at Elvi

Red stripe T shirt £35, Hobbs

Stripe ruffl e sleeve T shirt £40, French Connection

women’sfashion

It’s a look that, like the tide, comes

in and out on a regular basis. This

Spring/Summer Nautical fashion

is right on trend and the Centre is

awash with stripes.

Primary colours are the pick

of the day, with brass button

detailing reinforcing the style.

Team wide leg sailor trousers in navy (£119

Hobbs) or white (£59 Autograph @ M&S) with

wedge heels (£18 Next) to see you through

Spring. In Summer, hems get a little higher

with smart city shorts (£25 Wallis @ Bhs).

And for your top half? Don’t be put off by

the old idea that horizontal stripes make you

appear wider. It’s a myth! So, experiment

with navy or red stripe tops (try Republic,

Hobbs and French Connection) until you fi nd

one that suits. Alternatively, pick a sweetly

striped sundress (from £34.99, Superdry) for

a really laid back look.

If you don’t want to go head-to-toe with

sailor style, invest in a short, fi tted blazer in

blue and white (£35 Next) to wear with your

favourite jeans. It’s an easy wardrobe update

and will keep out any unseasonal chills.

Footwear is your chance to add a splash of

vivid red. During the day, team crimson leather

sandals (£34.99 River Island) with fi tted shorts

and cap-sleeve tees. If you’re sporting the look

in the evening, though, towering heels

in scarlet (£70 Offi ce) are seriously

eye-catching peeking out from

those wide trouser hems.

Still not convinced on the stripe

front? Try spots (£59 Elvi). Or just stick

to block colours and add in pattern

via your accessories. From beach

bags to blue bow earrings (£22/£4

Accessorize), the little touches will

really accentuate the trend.

Finally, where would nautical fashion

be without the ubiquitous anchor? Pick

a necklace or bracelet adorned with

tiny boating memorabilia (Next, River

Island, Accessorize) to complete

your sartorial trip to the sea.

All aboard! RVP

t’s a look that, like the tide, comes

to block colours and add in pattern

via your accessories. From beach

bags to blue bow earrings (£22/£4

Accessorize), the little touches will

really accentuate the trend.

Finally, where would nautical fashion

be without the ubiquitous anchor? Pick

a necklace or bracelet adorned with

tiny boating memorabilia (Next, River

Island, Accessorize) to complete

your sartorial trip to the sea.

All aboard! RVP

11

Beloved Rose £70, Offi ce

Stripe Bow T-Shirt £20,

Papillon Jeans £50,

Great Plains @

Fenwick

Wide leg trousers £59, Autograph @ M&S

City shorts £25, Wallis @ Bhs

Blazer £40, Striped top £20, linen blend trousers £25, bag £22, necklace £18, Bhs

Blue Belle bracelet £8, Accessorize

Necklace £19.99, River Island

Stripy sailor bag

£22, Accessorize

Red sandals £34.99, River Island

Blue meadow dress £34.99, Superdry

women’sfashion

It’s a look that really

can be tailored to

suit you. Demure

and feminine or

tough and edgy, the

delicate palette of

muted tones can be

mixed and matched

to create your own style.

While head-to-toe putty

shades may seem a little tricky

to pull off, as the weather gets

warmer, Neapolitan colours

become more appealing.

Instantly Summery, these

buttery shades are much more

forgiving than pure white. ➤

Pistachio, vanilla, strawberry, butterscotch, milk chocolate;

they might be ice cream fl avours, but they also

make up this season’s hottest colour trend

ortwo?Onescoop

13

Beige trench £70, Wallis @ Bhs

Lace dress £30, studded bag £12, quilted pumps £20, all at Jane Norman

Khaki chino £32.50, cotton

shirt £32.50, pocket tee £10, Pierre Hardy wedges £65,

all at Gap

Dress £25, Scarf £25, Bag £25, Lace waistcoat £35, all Warehouse @ Fenwick

Rainmac £149, top £69, shorts £69, bangle £49, shoes £189, all at Hobbs

Jumper dress £120, Reiss @ Fenwick

Meadow blouse £40, Topshop

Meadow crop top £25, Topshop

Miribel £65, Kurt Geiger @ Fenwick

Cream skirt £95, Reiss @ Fenwick

women’sfashionThe delicacy of the colour

range also gives you the

opportunity to really play with

cut and texture. The hard,

modern edge of streamlined,

creamy leather jacket (try

French Connection), for

example, contrasts beautifully

with the diaphanous qualities

of a blush chiffon blouse

or a lace vest (Topshop and

Republic). For a simpler,

urban look, try a jersey dress

in a pastel shade. Keep it from

looking too casual with a pair

of laced-up wedges and a

statement handbag (Gap).

And if you’re not sure this

trend is going to work for you,

look no further than the classic

mac (Bhs, Next, Fenwick). It’s

an investment piece that will

see you through Spring and

Summer for years to come.

Be brave and embrace the

pastel trend. It’s anything but

beige. RVP

14Abrianna fl ats £34, Faith

Cardigan £80, Top £80, Jeans £80, all Betty Barclay @ Fenwick

Laila leather jacket £350, French Connection

Vest £16.99, Republic

Biker jacket £130, chiffon dress £49.99, biker boots £74.99, all at River Island

One shoulder dress £70, bag £45, both Warehouse @ Fenwick

Belted mac £65, Next

Striped knitted vest £35, linen trousers £60, both Great Plains @ Fenwick

Bag £85, Topshop

Grey sweatshirt

dress £39.50,

hobo bag

£89.50, Pierre

Hardy wedges

£65, all at Gap

Sandal £75, Faith

As they form an essential part of your

Summer survival kit, we take a look through the latest

sunglasses. For the boys, classic aviators

and wayfarers. For the girls, Jackie O

frames and coloured lenses. So go and try

on a different pair. You might just like the

rose-tinted view

Sunglasses

17

ShadeIN THE

Ladies (top to bottom): £249, Prada @ Sunglass Hut / £27,

Boots / £12, Jane Norman / £27, Boots / £139, Miu Miu @

Sunglass Hut / £179, Chanel @ Sunglass Hut

Mens (right – top to bottom): £199, Ray Ban @ Sunglass Hut / £22 Boots

/ £155, Prada Linea Rossa @ Sunglass Hut / £22, Boots / £165,

Burberry @ Sunglass Hut / £12, Next

Ladies (top to bottom):

Boots / £12, Jane Norman / £27, Boots / £139, Miu Miu @

Sunglass Hut / £179, Chanel @ Sunglass Hut

might just like the rose-tinted view

17

£199, Ray Ban @ Sunglass Hut / £22 Boots

/ £155, Prada Linea Rossa @ Sunglass Hut / £22, Boots / £165,

£249, Prada @ Sunglass Hut / £27,

17

might just like the might just like the rose-tinted view

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

Whether you’re hoping to catch some rays in your back garden or travelling further afi eld, you’ll need to have a few essentials with you. Luckily, we’re on hand to help get you

ready for your days in the sun

Life’s aBeach

18

Woven tote bag £34.99, River Island

Hat £12, Fashion Targets Breast Cancer @ M & S

Polkadot bikini top £8, bottoms £10, both Bhs

Lunar bikini £32, briefs £22, Freya Swim @ Fenwick

Neneh shorts £32, Topshop

Books from a

selection at WHSmith

Spotty halterneck swimsuit £20 Boots

Soltan Once 50+ SPF from £13.29, Boots

Ice cream earrings £6, Freedom at Topshop

Snakeskin cuff £10, Accessorize

19

Holidays

CHECKLIST: SwimsuitBikiniHatBeach bagFlip fl opsSunscreenBeach towelAccessoriesEssential reading

White Kaftan £16, Boots

Carnival bikini top £28, string bottoms £23, Moontide @ Fenwick

Supernova underwired bandeau suit £46, Freya Swim @ Fenwick

Sundance dress £49.99, Superdry

Cover-up £25, Topshop

Natuical swimsuit £28 Accessorize

Cowboy hat £12, Jane Norman

Beaded fl ip fl ops £10, Boots

Seashell necklace £14, Freedom at Topshop

DON’T FORGET!

You might not iron your bikini before you

go down to the beach, but when it comes

to those linen trousers you want to wear to

dinner, you’ll be grateful you packed

this. Travel iron £16.99, Boots.

Jewelled sandals £45, Autograph @ M & S

Travel Iron £16.99 Boots

Bikini top £12, bottoms £18, bag £15, M & S

Gold trim bikini £24 Jane Norman

Wear with…The beauty of grey is its

versatility. It tempers

bright colours, invigorates

black and compliments

soft pastels. Such is its

potential, it’s a shame

to limit it to just one

look. Nevertheless, we

recommend pairing it with

a delicate, fl oaty dress or

cut-off jeans and a pair of

fabulous heels like these

lattice-cut sandals from

Jane Norman.

Three Budgets

We carry the hope of an Indian Summer every year, but sadly the British weather often disappoints. That leaves us with a dilemma. We want to embrace lighter fabrics, delicate straps and shorter hem lines, but once the sun goes down, we yearn for our Winter coats! But do not despair. We have the perfect, stylish evening warmers to suit your purse. Take your pick from one of this year’s dusky grey leather jackets

SAVESAVESAVE

One

look

SAVE – This suede bomber jacket adds a little texture to your outfi t. £50, Select.

SPOIL – Waterfall jackets are the look of the season. The draping front of this Limited Collection jacket is instantly elegant. £150, M & S.

Three BudgetsBudgetsBudgets

grey leather jackets

Women’s Fashion

SPEND – We love the quilted detail on this pale grey biker jacket. £100, Monsoon.

This suede bomber

are the look of the season. The draping front of this SPEND

SPEND

Cut-out lace up heels £35, Jane Norman

Meadow Slip £50, Topshop

Techno Traveller shorts £32, Topshop

SpoilSpoil

21

Men’s Fashion

Right chaps, it’s getting warmer outside and that

means you might have to consider alternating

your favourite jeans with something different

ShortStoriesLucky for you, there is no shortage of

options when it comes to shorts. From

casual cargos, perfect for laidback

weekends, to white linen, ideal for a

day by the river or a BBQ with friends,

to versatile swim shorts, just right for

a trip to the beach, wherever you’re

going, there’s a pair for you. Keep your

look casual with a bright T-shirt or

dress them up a bit

with a linen shirt

or lightweight

blazer. ➤

Polo shirt £34.99, Superdry

Striped T-shirt £25, French Connection

Coral scoop jumper £19.99,

Sloppy crew tee £9.99, Princes

red shorts £21.99, Zorza

white brogues £44.99, all at River Island

Polo shirt £34.99, Superdry

Machine Gun stretch shorts £45, French Connection

Classic Panama £45, Papertouch military mac £79, shirt £25, watch £29.50, linen shorts £25, leather holdall £59.50, all at M & S

Cotton T-shirt £3.50, linen jacket £99, seersucker shorts £25, canvas espadrilles £12, all at M & S

Jacket £29.99, shorts £19.99, both Republic

Polo shirt £24.99, Republic 23

Men’s Fashion

Give your pinstripe

three-piece a rest and opt for a

classy linen jacket to see you through

Summer. Wear with jeans at the weekend

and cream chinos for

those smart-casual days at

the office ➤

SuitedWell

25

Washbasket shorts £44.99, Superdry

Jenson check shirt £24.99, Faschino pants £29.99, Ticking scarf £7.99, Plaited belt £16.99, Tan gladiator

£24.99, all at River Island

T-shirt £10, Bhs

Silk Linen Jacket £99 Polka Dot Shirt £25, M & S

2.1.

1. Polo £50, Fred Perry @

Fenwick 2. Zip Cardigan £20, T-Shirt

£10, cargo shorts £25, all

at Bhs

Men’s Fashion

It’s back. Double Denim has returned

to our shores and everyone’s trying it.

UpDoubling

If you didn’t wear it fi rst time

round (in the Eighties), there’s

only really one rule. Your two

pieces of denim must not be the

same colour blue! We suggest

playing with different weight

fabrics and even different

colours to ensure the look is

modern rather than retro.

If you really don’t think that

trend is for you, jeans

remain the wardrobe

staple they always were,

whether you wear them

with a shirt, a hoodie

or even more

denim. RVP

Distressed jeans £32.50, yellow T-shirt £8.00, purple marl hoodie £ 55.00, all at Gap

Light torch jeans £65, French Connection

Black denim shirt £28 Topman

Skinny twister jeans £40 Topman

Denim look jersey biker £46 Topman

Vintage straight jeans £36 Topman

3.

2.

1.

1. Cream denim shorts £35, denim shirt £40, neckerchief £8, all at Topman 2. Denim Shirt Jacket £50, T-shirt £20, coated Raw Wash jeans £25, all at Next 3. Grey pocket cardigan £29.99, stripe T-shirt £14.99, linen crinkle scarf £7.99, jeans £34.99, Rosette shoes £54.99, shopper £99.99, all at River Island

27

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

28

Family FUN!A dedicated Parent Room helps

you take care of your young ones’

needs in a safe and comfortable

environment. The Parent Room is

located in the Food Court next to

Café Giardino.

Royal Victoria Place is a Child Safe

Zone. This simple effective scheme

aims to reunite a lost child with

their family as quickly as possible.

More information and free Child

Safe wristbands are available from

the Concierge desk located outside

Bhs on Level 2.

We host free children’s events

throughout the year including

free face painting, workshops

or events at which your kids can

meet and greet their favourite

characters. To keep up to date

visit westfi eld.com/rvp or join

the Westfi eld Kids Club today.

Getting HEREBy Car Tunbridge Wells is just off the

A21 (take Junction 5 on the M25 if

you’re heading south). From the East

the main routes are the A262 and

A26 and from the West, the A264.

By Train Tunbridge Wells Train

Station is well served by rail

services. Leave the station from

Mount Pleasant exit, turn left and

it’s a fi ve minute walk up the hill to

Royal Victoria Place.

By Bus There are a number

of bus services into Tunbridge

Wells from Chatham, Maidstone,

Brighton, Gatwick, Edenbridge,

Hastings, Heathfi eld, Benenden

and Oxted. For further

information and bus timetables,

please contact either Arriva on

0871 2002233 or Stagecoach on

0870 2433711.

SERVICEAt Your

Shop Late Royal Victoria Place is open late every Thursday until 8pm to help make shopping more convenient. Monday to Friday 9am – 6pm, except Thursday 9am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm. Individual store opening hours may vary.

29

Join

the W

estfi e

ld

Kids Club

see page 39 fo

r details

At Your Service

PARKINGRoyal Victoria Place Car Park offers

1,250 spaces with easy and convenient

access direct onto the malls. Allocated

accessible parking facilities and Parent

and Child parking bays are located on

Levels 4 & 6. Meadow Road Car Park

is located directly opposite the Centre

and provides a further 450 car parking

spaces. Free car parking is available in

both car parks every Thursday after 6pm.

Centre INFOThe Concierge team are at your

service to make sure you enjoy

your visit to Royal Victoria Place

even more. The Concierge desk

is conveniently located on Level

2 outside Bhs and will help you

with locating your favourite stores,

transport information, and any

other queries you may have.

Contact Westfi eld Concierge on

01892 506666.

Accessible Services are available

from Shopmobility located on Level

1 opposite Next. Shopmobility offers

a range of services to include hire of

wheelchairs and electric scooters.

Accessible toilets can be found at

several locations throughout the

centre and special accessible car

parking bays are located on Levels

4 & 6 of Royal Victoria Place Car

Park. Contact Shopmobility on

01892 544355.

Keep up-to-date with all the latest

news and hottest offers by visiting

westfi eld.com/rvp. Our website will

also keep you informed about our

news, stores, shopping hours and

special offers.

Register today to receive your

free email newsletters that make

sure you really are the fi rst to

know about what’s on at Royal

Victoria Place.

SERVICE Westfi eld

GIFTCARDSolve all your gift problems and give them what they

want with a Westfi eld Gift Card. They’ll have great

fun choosing a treat from over 90 stores.

Visit the Concierge desk on Level 2.

NOW AVAILABLE TO BUY

ONLINE AT

westfi eld.com/rvp

Shop Late Royal Victoria Place is open late every Thursday until 8pm to help make shopping more convenient. Monday to Friday 9am – 6pm, except Thursday 9am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm. Individual store opening hours may vary.

jeweller y

F a n t a s t i c W e d d i n g S a v i n g s

S O M E T H I N G D I F F E R E N T

138 Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2SR • Tel 01892542779 • Email: [email protected]

JEWELLERY REPAIRS • ENGRAVING • CUSTOM DESIGN SERVICE

Buy two wedding rings and get the cheapest half priceOffer ends June 30th 2010

Buy two wedding rings

and get the cheapest half price

Offer ends June 30th 2010

31

Centre Guide

Store Level

Department and Variety StoresBhs 01892 522281 1,2Boots 01892 526486 1,2Fenwick 01892 516716 1,2Marks & Spencer 01892 511466 1,2WH Smith 01892 517555 1,2

AccessoriesAccessorize 1Claire’s Accessories 2Star Sunglasses ECSunglass Hut 1 Tie Rack 2

Banks and FinanceAlliance & Leicester 1

Books, Cards & StationeryBetween the Lines 2Clinton Cards 1 Paperchase 2

Cafés and RestaurantsBanjo’s Deli ECBhs Restaurant 2Bhs Coffee Lounge 1Café Giardino FCCaffé Nero 2Costa Coffee 2Fenwick Terrace Restaurant 2M&S CaféRevive 2Muffi n Break 1Naked Coffee ECNutmeg Tree Tearooms FCO’Briens Gourmet Sandwich Bar 2Seattle Espresso Mall Café 1

Confectionery and Ice CreamJoe Delucci Ice Cream 1The Sweetspot 1Thorntons 2

Electrical Goods and ComputersiStore 2 Sony Centre 2

Fashion – ChildrenswearGAP Kids 1H & M 1 JoJo Maman Bébé 2 Mothercare 2

Fashion – LadieswearAnn Summers 1Dolly Rocks ECElvi 1Hobbs 1Jane Norman 1Kaos 2 La Senza 2Monsoon 1Select 2Topshop 1Yumi 1

Fashion – MenswearTopman 1

Fashion – MixedAnimal 2French Connection 2GAP 1Gas Station 2Next 1Republic 2River Island 2Superdry 1

Food and DrinkJulian Graves 2Marks & Spencer Foodhall 1

Store Level

Food Court/Take AwayAuntie Anne’s Pretzel Bar 1Café Giardino FCChilltime FC KFC FCMcDonalds FCMuffi n Break Espresso FCNutmeg Tree Tearooms FCShou Noodle & Sushi Bar FCSpud U Like FCSubway FC

FootwearFaith 2Offi ce 2Shoes by M EC

Gifts, Arts and CraftsBetween the Lines 2Latin Colours 1Revival ECSmiffys Serious Fun 2

HairdressersBuzz Barbers 1Now 4 Women 1Supercuts 1Trade Secret 2

Health & WellbeingBoots 1LA Fitness Health Club MSPlanet Skin ECThe Nail Sanctuary 1The Perfume Shop 2

Homewares and FurnishingMoben, Sharps and Dolphin 1China Chaps EC

Jewellery4 Silver 2Burrells Jewellers 2Claybrooks Jewellers 1Ernest Jones 2Goldsmiths 2Magnolia 1Pandora 2Silverleaf Jewellery 1Toulson Jones Jewellers ECVelox Jewellers 1

Mobile Phones3 1Carphone Warehouse 2O2 1Phones 4 U 1

Music and EntertainmentGame 1HMV 1Sony Centre 2

OpticiansBoots Opticians 2Optical Express 2

ServicesCréche 8Concierge Desk 2Free Kiddy Cars 2Parent & Baby Room FCShopmobility 1Timpsons 2

Sports and Outdoor LeisureRunning Bare 2Sports Direct.com 2

ToysFun Learning 2Hawkins Bazaar ECKeston Gifts 1Mothercare 2

EC - Ely Court FC - Food Court MS - Market Square

buzz

Open 7 days

WINNER 2009

men’s fashion 2009-2010latest hair trends

Buzz Hair Design For MenCalverley Row Entrance

BEST BARBER AW

ARD

cuts based around long fringesreturn of the classic side partingslick backs

cuts based around long fringes

return of the classic side parting

slick backs•

The Nail Sanctuary

O P IWe also off er threading –

the ultimate in eyebrow shaping. Eyelash extensions by Nova Lash

crafted by hand – no drills

140 Calverley Row 01892 544181

32

5% off* your next

holiday for all SoTW readers

Call us on 01435 866555 to see how.www.thetravelconcept.co.ukemail: [email protected]

The Travel Concept is a trading name of The Freedom Travel Group Limited registered in England and Wales with registered number 3816981. VAT NO. 403 3146 04. Registered offi ce: New Centry House, Manchester, M60 4ES. Head Offi ce: Hamil Road, Burslem, Stoke on Trent ST6 1AJ. The Freedom Travel Group Limited is part of the Co-Operative Group Limited.*Terms and conditions apply

Take a walk on the wild side

From adventure holidays to relaxing breaksEscape the norm and tailor-make your best holiday yet.

Holidays to Remember

33

Competition

PRIZE DRAW TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize draw is open to all readers aged 18 and over except agents, and employees and their families of Westfield Royal Victoria Place retail outlets and Westfield Royal Victoria Place Centre Management. One entry per customer. No purchase necessary. Damaged, defaced, illegible or photocopied entry forms will be disqualified. The prize draw closes at midnight on June 30 2010. The winner of the prize draw will be chosen at random from all entries and will be notified within seven days. The winner is entitled to one pair of OFFICE own brand shoes per month up to the value £80. No branded product can be chosen. Winner must produce the prize card on collection and have it signed by a member of management each month. No alternative prize or cash will be offered. Any shoe taken over £80, the difference will have to be met in full by the winner. Shoes not taken within the calendar month cannot be carried over. No refund or carry over will be given for shoes taken less than the total value of £80. The prize cannot be exchanged for cash or gift vouchers and no change will be given. The winner agrees to participate in any public relations arranged by the promoter. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable. An entry into the prize draw will be taken as acceptance of the terms and conditions. Promoter: Westfield Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells. Kent TN1 2SS

Title (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Other): First Name: Last Name:

Email*:

Address:

Town: Postcode:

Mobile No*: Date of birth: Gender:

Signature:

*By giving your email and/or mobile number you agree to receiving emails and/or mobile communications from Westfield Royal Victoria Place and Office.

Please tick this box if you would prefer not to receive postal items Please tick this box if you would prefer us not to pass your details on to carefully chosen third parties

WinNEW ShOES FOR A yEARSummer is upon us and to celebrate Office is offering

our readers the chance to win a WhOLE yEAR’s worth of OFFICE ShOES! 12 pairs over 12 months - a dream come

true for any shoe junkie – and worth nearly £1,000One lucky person can choose a pair of shoes every month, up to the value of £80, for twelve months. And Office’s collection is unconquerable this summer, covering every trend that’s hit the catwalk from tribal

chic to glam rock. Spend summer nights in massive wedges in tan shades or go for comfort with the sports luxe trend that has reinvented sandals with a twist. Metal, gems, feathers and chains have vamped

up the tribal styles which make any outfit stand out from the crowd. Or opt for the cute, flirty fashion of Boudoir that give your feet a romantic touch with ruffles and bows. View the entire collection on www.office.co.uk

For your chance to win simply fill in the form below and send it to

Royal Victoria Place / Office CompetitionThe Magazine People, Studio Six, Sussex Mews, The Pantiles,

Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QJ

36

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

The smoky look is over. Summer’s here and it’s time

to lighten up. We’re got the inside

track on the latest beauty treatsTable

DressingOn theFace OffEven on overcast days, UV rays can damage the delicate skin on our face. We’ve looked at a few of the best

foundations with built in SPF (Sun Protection Factor) available. They’ll keep your skin safe without adding time

to your morning beauty routine.

■ Clinique’s Even Better Makeup is the

one for you if your skin tone is patchy.

The lightweight foundation is designed

to reduce the appearance of irregular

skin colour if you use it regularly, so

you look better even without makeup.

It leaves your skin smooth and dewy,

while protecting it from the sun.

SPF15, £20 for 30ml from Fenwick.

■ If your skin is looking a little dull,

Vitalumière liquid foundation from

Chanel will give you a lift. It transforms

tired skin into a radiant, youthful

complexion

and, as it’s

also full of

moisturiser, it revialises at the same

time. SPF15, from £30, Fenwick.

■ The latest trend in beauty is mineral

make up, a more natural option which

is designed to let your skin breathe.

Maybelline has launched a range of

mineral cosmetics, including the Pure

Minerals Foundation. As it’s a powder,

it’s lighter than a liquid foundation,

but still contains the recommended

sun protection and leaves skin looking

fl awless. SPF15, £9.78, Boots.

■ Bobbi Brown’s Skin Foundation

is designed to look

like your

own skin

rather than

make up.

With built in

pore minimisers, you are left

with fresh, glowing skin. Unlike

other foundations, you can apply a

couple of layers of this make up to

create a more solid base. SPF15

£28 for 30ml, Fenwick.

■ Boots have added to their

anti-ageing range with the No7

Lift and Luminate Foundation.

Designed for more mature

complexions, it contains

ingredients that work together to

fi rm, lift and tone the skin.

SPF15 £15.50 for

30ml, Boots.

It’s time to step up your skin protection

Health and Beauty

37

Awash with ColourIt’s a perennial problem. We decide to

be adventurous and buy some different

eye make-up, but once we get it home,

we have no idea how to apply it.

Bobbi Brown has come up with

a solution that could solve your

cosmetic dilemma. The new Colour

Strips Palette allows you to co-

ordinate a panel of fi ve

complementary eye shadows with a

block of three lip and cheek colours.

The eye shadows feature one daring

colour and four more neutral shades

that are sure to suit everyone.

Compact £5, Eye Shadow Strips

£19, Pot Rouge Strip £16. Available

in May and June at the Bobbi Brown

Counter, Fenwick.

Nail itBlue is the season’s must-have nail colour. Finish

your mani/pedi with sapphire, aqua or baby blue

for a fresh look. Prefer something classic on your

hands? Just perk up your toes with a braver shade.

Nail polishes £2.50 each, Marks and Spencer.

A bit of ‘You Time’Don’t forget to pop in to the newly opened Planet Skin in Ely Court. Treat yourself

to an in-depth skin consultation, back and neck massage or brow shaping when

you’re fi nished your shopping. Call 01892 524615 to book an appointment.

Heaven ScentThe latest fragrance from designer Marc Jacobs, Lola is an unashamedly

fl irtatious perfume, with base notes of vanilla and top notes including red

grapefruit and pink peppercorns. It’s playful and fl oral, just right for the

warmer weather. £45 for 50ml, Boots. RVP

you’re fi nished your shopping. Call 01892 524615 to book an appointment.

39

Flower Power

Cami £20,

Farida Mexican

skirt £28, Jill

fl ip fl ops £8.

Left: Mexicana

Dress £32, all at

Monsoon

Farida Mexican Farida Mexican

skirt £28, Jill

Left: Mexicana

Dress £32, all at Dress £32, all at

it’sPlaytime!

SUMMER STYLEThis season, trends in kids fashion echo grown-up looks.

Shipshape styling, pretty pastels and fl ower power fi ll the

rails. And even tiny tots are doing double denim.

39

JUST FOR KIDSAre your children under

12? Sign them up to the

Westfield Kids Club at the

Concierge desk located

outside Bhs on Level 2

and they’ll receive a free

goodie bag and Westfield

Kids membership card.

Plus they’ll get event

newsletters and exclusive

offers throughout

the year.

Make shopping a bit

more fun for your little

ones. They’ll love going

from shop to shop when

they get behind the wheel

of one of our free Kiddy

Cars. Just visit the

Concierge desk with some

ID to take one out. (Your

child must be

under 104cm

(3’ 4”) and

able to

walk.

Kids get a free goodie bag when they join

Westfi eld Kids.

Flower Power

Cami £20,

Farida Mexican

skirt £28, Jill

fl ip fl ops £8.

Left: Mexicana

Dress £32, all at

Monsoon

above: Coral top £7, full woven skirt £14, both mini mode @ Boots /Gingham trousers £10, cream broderie top £10, hat £6, gingham swimsuit £10, all Molly and Jack @ Boots

Badged bomber jacket from £22, rugby shirt from £9, distressed jeans from £13, badged poloshirt from £9, turn-up jeans from £7, stripe hooded sweat top from £12, T-shirt (set of 3) from £10, shorts from £9, all at Next

Woven Romper and hat £16, M & S

Baby Rio Dress £26, Monsoon

White blouse £12.50, chambray trousers £7.00, denim jacket £22.00, denim dungarees £17.50, chambray dungarees £17.50, denim jacket £22.00, white dress £15.00, denim roll up jeans £15.00, denim pinafore £19.50, all at Gap Kids.

SAFE IN THE SUNYour children need more protection from the sun

than you might think. We love these swimming

costumes for kids up to age six. The equivalent of

Factor 50+ sunscreen, the suit will keep most of

your child covered up so they can play in the sun.

mini mode @ Boots.

For their arms, legs and face, Boot’s Waterplay

sunscreen offers 50+ protection for six hours

in the sun and three hours in the water, so you

don’t have to reapply as often. £13.29, Boots.

Keep the sun out of their eyes with a pair of

kid-sized sunnies. Boys sunglasses £4, Girls

sunglasses £6, both M & S.

your child covered up so they can play in the sun.

For their arms, legs and face, Boot’s Waterplay

TheToy Box ALL AT HAWKINS BAZAAR ELY COURT

TEA,ANYONE?We love these china mugs featuring our

favourite Mr Men or Little Miss characters.

With twelve designs to choose from there’s

one for everyone! £6.99

GROW YOUR OWNThese cute little watering cans come

with one of a selection of pretty

fl ower seeds: Blue Daisy, Alyssum,

Forget-Me-Not, Pansy, along with

a plug of growing medium and full

picture instructions. £3.99

CLOCK-WATCHINGColourful cogs are assembled

to make a fully functioning

mechanical clock, complete

with a swinging pendulum and

shiny bell. Perfect for learning

how to tell the time. £12.99

CLOCK-WATCHINGColourful cogs are assembled

to make a fully functioning

mechanical clock, complete

with a swinging pendulum and

shiny bell. Perfect for learning

how to tell the time. £12.99

These cute little watering cans come

fl ower seeds: Blue Daisy, Alyssum,

Forget-Me-Not, Pansy, along with

a plug of growing medium and full

ANYONE?We love these china mugs featuring our

GROW YOUR OWNThese cute little watering cans come

with one of a selection of pretty

fl ower seeds: Blue Daisy, Alyssum,

42

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

PicksEditor’s

Park Avenue Princess

The Centre is heaven for anyone who likes to shop. But with over 90 shops to choose from, it’s easy to overlook a few treasures. I’ve put together a few of my favourite looks, collections and must-have pieces to inspire you

Think Charlotte

from Sex and

the City or Gossip

Girl’s Blair

Waldorf. The

classic styling of

Audrey Hepburn

is back and I love

it. The perfect

look for lunch

with the girls.

42

Fairy Cakes Spring ShowersCupcakes have taken over. M & S

have the real thing – fresh vanilla

sponges with pretty pink swirls of

strawberry buttercream (£2.99 for 4),

while Paperchase have released a

charming collection of cupcake print

kitchen accessories. I’ve already

bought the tea towels and love the

traditionally shaped cakestand.

Tray £12.50, cakestand £25, garland £4, all at Paperchase. Cupcakes

from a selection at M & S.

A traditional Mac is a wardrobe staple

that no-one should be without. But if

you fancy taking a break from the usual

beige number, try this turquoise one

on for size. The buckle detailing on the

sleeves and collar make sure this is a

modern take on a classic look.

beige number, try this turquoise one

on for size. The buckle detailing on the

sleeves and collar make sure this is a

Turquoise Mac £160, French Connection.

Ionie bag £139, Reiss @ Fenwick

Bow front dress £48, Next

Peeptoes £55, Faith

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

43

Dressing Up

Weekender

There’s nothing like accessorising to lift an outfi t

from so-so to stellar. Beach-bound? Opt for

delicate seashells and tropical motifs. Want to

jazz up a work outfi t? Pick up a fl oral statement

piece to stand out from the crowd.

Selection from Freedom @ Topshop

This brown leather holdall is perfect for those

lads’ weekends away. The trim and embossed

motif make this bag a gents

must-have.

Leather holdall £34.99, River Island

Are you returning to work and need childcare? We offer high quality care in our Baby,Toddler and Pre-school Rooms. All staff are qualifi ed and we have a wide range of resources to help your child learn and develop to their full potential. Interested? Call Caron or Vikki on 01892 518080.

Look out for our special activities at the Hippo Club! Allow your child to have fun while you shop and relax. Hippo Crèche is open Monday to Saturday 9-5 with qualifi ed staff. Activities galore to entertain your little treasure. Book on 01892 518080.

Alfa Romeos are more often noted for

sharp styling and crisp handling rather than economy. However, the Italian marque

now believes you can have your cake and eat

it with the new Mito engine line-up

MiToMultiAirTHE

Words: Dan Smith T

he MiTo’s been around

for a few years now

and the fashionable

supermini has been

popular with everyone

from style-conscious

mums to boy racers.

Now, though, Alfa will

be pitching their new ‘MultiAir’ line of

engines to a more eco-friendly audience.

The engines, which are to be rolled out

across the entire Fiat group, are high-

tech pieces of kit which use electro-

hydraulically controlled inlet valves

to boost economy whether the car is

pootling around town or being given the

beans on country roads.

In fact, Alfa claims that in the case of

its 1.4 litre FIRE turbocharged engine,

MultiAir reduces CO2 emissions by over

10 per cent, increases power by 12.5 per

cent and reduces fuel consumption by as

much as 10 per cent.

Whether you opt for one of the new

engines, or go for the standard units,

you’re onto a pretty decent car. Our test

motor is the standard 1.4 Veloce, which

produces 153bhp and sits on a set of

rather tasty 17” alloy rims. The MiTo is

also available in the entry level Turismo

spec as well as the mid-range Lusso.

Obviously the more you spend,

the more toys you get although it’s

pretty well kitted across the range

for a car that can cost as

little as £10,745. ➤

spec as well as the mid-range Lusso.

Obviously the more you spend,

the more toys you get although it’s

pretty well kitted across the range

for a car that can cost as

little as £10,745. ➤

Motors

45

46

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

Even the basic package comes with

seven airbags and scores five stars (full

marks) on the Euro NCAP safety rating.

Overall Alfa have put together a

quality package; the whole range

comes with alloy wheels, CD player/

MP3 input plus electric windows and

locks all round. The car is only available

with three doors though, apparently to

emphasise its sporty features.

Whizzing around the bottom of TW is

a joy; the MiTo is an adept town car and

actually succeeds in drawing a few admiring

looks from the odd passer by. Heading out

onto the A-roads, my right foot gets a bit

twitchy and the 150 Italian ponies (rather

than horses) are more than happy to oblige;

this is genuinely a great fun car. The ride is

good and the rigidity comes from the same

chassis featured in the Fiat Grande Punto.

The ‘DNA’ button (standing for

dynamic, normal and all-weather)

means you can switch between three

modes which vary the throttle response,

suspension tightness and steering

speed. We preferred ‘dynamic’ of

course… I mean, why not?

The idea of the MultiAir engines

is that even using the more

sporty settings you receive strong

performance, while maintaining

relatively healthy fuel consumption,

which must be a good thing.

What Alfa has produced then, is

a great looking little car that drives

excellently, is £2k cheaper than a

MINI Cooper S and is a bit quirkier

now that those MINI’s are everywhere.

Plus with the new engines, this car is

even more appealing. RVP

VErDICT:The MiTo is a fun, run-

around motor that would

serve brilliantly as a

second car to the family

or as a first car for the

youngster. Keep an eye

out for the next in line

230bhp, 1750cc MiTo GTA

set to hit Blighty later in

the year.

01892 554700 32 THE PANTILES, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT • WWW.GETCRUISING.CO.UK

ABTA NO. K9517

New York

£899INCLUDES 5* QUEEN MARY 2 CRUISE AND RETURN FLIGHT.

Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T C R U I S E S P E C I A L I S T

CLASSIC 6 NIGHT TRANSATLANTIC CROSSING TO

ONLY

*Prices are per person, based on 2 passengers sharing the lowest grade of twin bedded cabin, subject to availability.

Whatever your look this Summer… it’s at

Road, just around

the corner from the

entrance to the Royal

Victoria Place car

park, is the home to

the factory that makes

them. Spread over two

fl oors, 55 chocolatiers

produce an array of

tempting treats.

The top secret

chocolate mixtures are

melted and tempered

to perfection and

the molten nectar is

deposited into moulds.

Expert chocolatiers add

a variety of fl avours

and centres including

champagne, ganache, caramel and their newest

confection, banoffee. They are then decorated by hand,

cooled and placed into boxes before being sent around

the country and the world.

Production at Tunbridge Wells started in the 1970s.

We’re close enough to the company’s fl agship Old Bond

Street store and the other major sales points at Harrods

and Selfridges to make sugary transportation smooth.

Our own ‘Royal’ connection simply adds to the appeal

for TW to be the home of royal chocolate-making.

Who needs to go to Belgium to try truly delicious

chocolates. Our favourites are made a good deal closer

to home. RVP

50

Royal Victoria Place Magazine

It’s a name synonymous around the world with decadent and luxurious chocolates, but did you know that Charbonnel et Walker’s delicious creations are made just a few minutes down the road?

The company, amongst the most

respected in chocolate making,

was created at the request of King

Edward VII (who was then Prince of

Wales) in 1875. His granddaughter,

our current monarch, still enjoys

her grandpa’s arrangement

maintaining Charbonnel’s Royal

Warrant to the present day.

Aside from being the Queen’s chosen brand, the

chocs are sent all over the globe and are available to

the rest of us mere serfs via the departments stores

like our very own Fenwick.

But before reaching the fi nest

taste buds of the world, they are

lovingly created by hand.

And where better for

a Royal chocolate

factory than a

Royal town…

Tunbridge

Wells!

Those

chocolates

become

that much

sweeter

in the

knowledge

that Quarry

fit forCharlie

a factory