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Located in sleepy Richmond, with views overlooking the Thames, The Mitre Hampton Court is our top choice for the ultimate dog-friendly winter staycation this holiday season. Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies and intrepid doggy rePAWter TeamCocopup Charlie ventured out to foggy Hampton Court to experience the festive delights of the hotel themselves.

Beautifully illuminated in fairy lights, you’ll see the façade of Mitre Hampton Court from a mile away. The hotel sits right on the edge of the Thames, giving it an almost ethereal quality that is absolutely ideal for evoking Christmas cheer. So much so, that not even the horrendous Surrey holiday traffic could dampen our spirits.

This characterful boutique hotel is as eccentric as it is cosy. Art is everywhere in this 17th-century Grade II listed hotel, from the illustrated map of surrey to playful portraits of King Henry dotted throughout. You are greeted by a glass of Taylors Port upon arrival, a perfectly warming gesture that hints at the level of service you can expect at The Mitre Hampton Court.

The hotel is hosting a wonderfully cosy Taylors Port pop-up in the terrace which is adorned with Parisian style furniture, outdoor kitchen, twinkling lights and roaring fires. We recommend sampling one of Taylor’s signature cocktails, which includes a Porto Negroni, Port Old Fashioned or LBV Martini before going for dinner at the lovely 1665 restaurant.

1665 restaurant at Mitre Hampton Court

Led by Chef Mark Jarvis the gorgeous riverside 1665 restaurant offers British classics with an eclectic twist. We started off with the Teriyaki cauliflower popcorn and the wonderfully indulgent panko-crusted Brie. For mains, don’t skip the Pork Belly, which is tender, crunchy, savoury and perfect for a winter meal.

The house wine, a Domaine de Saissac Cabernet Sauvignon, was the perfect choice to pair with our hearty winter meal which ended with a slice of the restaurant’s delicious (and slightly savoury) burnt basque cheesecake – which was a revelation in and of itself.

cosy winter terrace with Taylor's Port pop-up

Breakfast is served at The Boathouse, where you can enjoy a nice cuppa while overlooking the Thames. The plant bowl is delish, but so too are the classic Eggs Benedict and Full English options. Almost all restaurants in Mitre Hampton Court have dedicated areas where you doggy can dine with you – which obviously gives it plus points from me and Charlie.

We stayed in the Thames View suite, which as the name suggests, has incredible riverside views. A gorgeous red patterned wallpaper decorates the space, while a handsome freestanding bath is a clear focal point. Designed by Nicola Harding, the room was spacious, colourful and appropriately festive.

Thames View room in Mitre hampton court

There was a dog bed, dog bowls, dog toys and dog treats for Charlie too – who of course loved all the special treatment.

So – whether you are ‘In The Tub’ or ‘Out to Court’ (playful door signs which feature King Henry and Queen Charlotte respectively), there is certainly plenty to love at Mitre Hampton Court. We think it may even be the best festive dog friendly staycation this side of the Thames.

dog and woman in bed

Book your staycation now at The Mitre Hampton Court Hotel

Introducing you to the Kimpton Clocktower Manchester

Where is the Kimpton Clocktower hotel?

Housed in a magnificent terracotta Grade II–listed building, the Kimpton Clocktower in the vibrant city of Manchester has a rich history and effortlessly combines its storied history with its eclectic style and boutique amenities.

History of the Kimpton Clocktower

Designed by Alfred Waterhouse, the architect behind Manchester’s grand Town Hall, the elaborate building with its distinctive clocktower that stands out in the city’s skyline dates back to the 1890s and in its previous incarnation as a life assurance building, the Kimpton Clocktower has maintained plenty of its original charm and ornate features.

Architecture and design of the Kimpton Clocktower

Located in the heart of the city, at the corner of Oxford Street and Whitworth Street, the Kimpton Clocktower is extremely central with the bars of Canal Street just a hop and a skip away. The shared areas including the extravagantly-decorated lobby are where the hotel shines.

As you enter through the wooden revolving door, the catchphrase of Manchester’s very own Oasis ‘Mad fer it’ is emblazoned by hologram as you enter.

The lobby is expansive and has a spectacular glass-mosaic dome feature, vintage bikes and also has a centrepiece of a three-metre-tall bronze horse which was sculpted by artist Sophie Dickens who was the granddaughter of novelist Charles Dickens.

The artwork demonstrates where the original turning circle for horse and carts was when visitors used to come to the headquarters of The Refuge Assurance Company.

Eating at the Kimpton Clocktower

The bar at the Kimpton Clocktower hotel in Manchester
The bar at the Kimpton Clocktower hotel in Manchester

One of my favourite areas of the hotel was the super stylish Refuge bar which is resplendent and all kinds of fabulous. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff are extremely friendly and willing to help. This was reflected by all staff members in the hotel who offered excellent service throughout our stay.

The walls of the restaurant are adorned with graphics and pictures paying homage to the city of Manchester and in particular its industrial past. With its excellent cocktail menu and DJ sets, it makes for a very chilled vibe!

Breakfast is served in the Winter Garden conservatory area which has decorative trees adorned with twinkling lights and a white art-deco style floor. One lovely added touch was the complimentary refreshing ginger, grapefruit and lemon health shot before we chose from the impressive breakfast menu.

Dining at the Refuge’s vibrant menu works on a small plates basis, giving diners the option to choose a couple of dishes for themselves or opting for a selection to share. Highlights include the delicious hummus and corn ribs with hoisin sauce.

Richard Kelly photography exhibition – ‘A Time and Place’

Just outside of the bar and restaurant, there is a photography exhibition featuring the photos of music photographer Richard Kelly. ‘A Time and Place’ features a series of rare photos from the early noughties of musicians like Amy Winehouse, Pete Doherty, Ian Brown, John Cooper Clarke, Florence + The Machine and many more.

Rooms at the Kimpton Clocktower hotel

The hotel is divided up into three separate buildings and there are 270 rooms and suites, all of which are individually styled. Some of the rooms have maintained some of its lovely original features such as panelled walls.

Decorated with a colour palette of neutrals juxtaposed with flashes of mustard, french navy and dark green, the rooms are spacious, but can be a little bit dark.

One nice touch is the complimentary snack boxes which contain water, crisps and chocolate as well as the ring to order service which is super helpful, as well as the standard toothbrush, razors, you can request everything from nail varnish to hair straighteners! Fantastic!

Opulent and stylish, with its nod to its industrial heritage coupled with its edgy yet chic interiors, the Kimpton Clocktower makes for a fabulous getaway to explore one of the UK’s most vibrant cities!

Check in: Double rooms start from £227 per night

Introducing you to the Balmer Lawn hotel, New Forest

From its fantastic two-AA Rosette restaurant to its friendly service, a stay at the characterful Balmer Lawn Hotel, one of the region’s most historically rich hotels was always going to be highly enjoyable.

History of the Balmer Lawn hotel

And you will be in splendid company too, as this imposing family-owned hotel has hosted esteemed guests including royalty since the mid-1800s such as King George V, Queen Mary and Winston Churchill.

Situated in the heart of the stunning New Forest and the picturesque town of Brockenhurst, the Balmer Lawn is an expansive four-star red brick hotel surrounded by 500 acres of picturesque expanses of forestry complete with the obligatory cute ponies.

Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest, Hampshire
Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest, Hampshire

The building has taken on many guises over the years which includes a hunting lodge, field hospital and General Eisenhower even issued orders for the D-Day Landings during the Second World War from here.

The hotel has maintained many of its historical features and this aesthetic has been extended to the decor such as the antique-style furnishings, Windsor chairs and the vintage-inspired four-poster beds.

Staying at the Balmer Lawn hotel

We stayed in one of the sumptuous traditionally-styled queen rooms which makes for a truly romantic experience thanks to its traditional wooden furniture, heavy curtains and queen-sized four-poster bed. Heritage and vintage aesthetics are the name of the game and many of the rooms overlook the lush greenery where ponies roam.

Balmer Lawn hotel reception area
Balmer Lawn hotel reception area

Balmer Lawn hotel facilities

The hotel has an outdoor heated pool towards the rear of the hotel which made for a relaxing dip. It also has an indoor pool, sauna, gym and jacuzzi. The spa makes for a relaxing experience and has a cosy relaxation area where you can zen out with a healing cup of herbal tea.

Balmer Lawn hotel swimming pool
Balmer Lawn hotel swimming pool
The spa at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest
The spa at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest

Beresfords Restaurant at the Balmer Lawn hotel

As well as its stunning location in the Hampshire countryside, one of the highlights of staying at the Balmer Lawn is the amazing food at the two AA-rosette Beresfords restaurant.

Headed up by esteemed executive head chef Andrew Gault and head chef Ben Brooks, Beresfords have an impressive menu filled with delicious dishes with ethically and locally sourced ingredients.

We started with one of the ‘Beresfords Bites’ – the Gloucester Old Spot Pork Crackling with an apple and pear compote which was one of the best dishes of crackling I have ever had.

Beresford restaurant at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest
Beresford restaurant at the Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest

All of the dishes from the starters through to desert are jam-packed with flavour and enjoy exquisite presentation. The Cornish lobster souffle, the quail scotch egg and the vibrant salt-baked beetroot with goat’s curd are all excellent choices for starters and the watercress risotto, Cornish wild sea bass and roasted fillet of chalk stream trout are an absolute delight.

One particular highlight was the 28 day matured fillet steak which comes with thick chips, salsa verde and confit tomatoes.

For more informal dining, you can enjoy snacks and light bites at The Lodge Kitchen and Bar, which stretches out into an alfresco eatery.

The bar at the Balmer Lawn hotel
The bar at the Balmer Lawn hotel

There are some interesting wines to choose from on their expansive wine list and you can also opt for a beer from the local Ringwood Brewery.

The glorious New Forest is amazing all year round, but a stay at the Balmer Lawn makes for serene and highly-satisfying getaway.

Check in: Double rooms start from £215 per night or for a luxury four poster bed- £300 per night.

London boasts a plethora of dynamic rooftop restaurants in the city centre. One that has stood the test of time is Galvin at Windows. Being situated on the 28th floor of the historic London Hilton on Park Lane, you won’t be surprised to find unimpeded views of London’s fascinating skyline.

Chef Patron is Chris Galvin. Along with his brother Jeff, they’ve dominated the London restaurant scene for years with their Michelin-starred cooking skills at restaurants like Galvin La Chapelle. They famously opened the Wolseley restaurant in 2003 and Chris had already earned his first Michelin star at the Orrery back in the year 2000.

At Galvin at Windows, he has appointed talented Marc Hardiman as head chef. Marc had perfected his skills at the Ritz as Senior Sous Chef. Interestingly, Chris had worked as a commis chef at the Ritz back in the day.

With such power-packed CVs, you wouldn’t be surprised to find the food at Galvin at Windows is remarkably polished. Service is attentive yet discreet from the moment you step into the restaurant.

A great way to experience their menu is to try their Sunday lunch menu. For the quality of food and service and the views on offer, it is very reasonably priced at £59 per person for 3 courses. It is available from 12 pm to 3 pm every Sunday lunch.

Furthermore, they are dishes you readily pay a premium for, as the ingenious combination of ingredients is unlikely to be recreated at home. Think locally sourced Halibut paired with St Austell Museels, yuzu kosho, nori, Champagne and rose. It is rightfully decadent as you would expect dining at a rooftop restaurant in the heart of Park Lane.

Dishes I would recommend trying include a beautifully sweet heritage tomato salad. It has a beautiful zestiness due to the addition of ponzu dressing and has some weighty substance with the presence of moreish goats curd.

Their beef carpaccio was a delightful surprise. It had a real depth of flavour due to the fact it has been dry aged and they used the finest quality black Angus. It was very cleverly paired with artichokes, mustard seeds and a smoked egg yolk for added complexity.

Enhanced flavours were also the order of the day with the main courses. Cornish Brill had an extra umami kick with the inclusion of Porthilly oysters and coastal herbs. The extra ingredients are always given careful consideration on how they can enhance and support the main act.

They had a very healthy take on the classic lasagne. The ‘lasagne’ sheets were made with celeriac whilst the filling was stuffed with meaty confit king oyster mushrooms. There was a hint of truffle used, but it was never overpowering. This is very much unlike less celebrated restaurants, which often use truffles to compensate for a lack of flavour in their dishes.

The highlight of their not-to-be-missed dessert section is the blackcurrant soufflé. Blackcurrants are incredibly underrepresented in fine dining menus. They have high levels of Vitamin C and antioxidants. The soufflé rose to just the right height and it had the perfect smooth consistency inside. It was paired with a delectable cheesecake ice cream and topped with crème de cassis to add to the blackcurrant notes.

Pairing the right ingredients to enhance the flavours is also evident in most of the other desserts on the menu. Case in point is the exquisitely executed white chocolate and blackberry crème brûlée. They’ve included a blackberry sorbet, so the tart and sweet notes come through even stronger. The texture was silky smooth along with the requisite crunchy topping. The dessert was finished off with a muscovado sugar shortbread.

When booking your table, check which side of the restaurant you might be sitting on. For example, when we visited for Sunday lunch recently, it was particularly glaring on the Hyde Park side. I would recommend booking for the Oxford Street side of the restaurant for Sunday lunch. You will still enjoy spectacular views of the London topography.

If you want a great recommendation for an apéritif or digestif, do check out their neighbouring bar, 10 Degrees Sky Bar. They offer some highly innovative cocktails and you can still admire the stunning views from the 28th floor.

For more information on the restaurant, please visit –

https://www.galvinatwindows.com/

Come with us to one of London’s most exclusive boroughs for an elegant evening in charming Chelsea.

As much as I adore the King’s Road in Chelsea, it can get a little bit chaotic, especially in the summer holidays or on a weekend. But if you’re in the know, there’s a hidden gem just off the bustling high street where you can retreat to rest and recharge ready for another round of shopping.

And at House of Coco, we know ALL the best places. This one in particular is located at The Sloane Club – an elegant private members club located just a short stroll away from the hustle and bustle of Chelsea’s Sloane Square.

When the sun is out in London, there is no greater occasion for drinking rosé on a buzzing terrace with friends, which is why The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club has partnered with the iconic rosé brand, Whispering Angel, throughout July and August for a pop up of summer soirées and al fresco dining.

Whispering Angel have taken over The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club to delight guests with crisp rosés accompanied by a mouth-watering menu by The Club’s Chefs. Diners can indulge in the menu that has a variety of light and fresh dishes celebrating British summer flavours with a delicious exotic twist from Messy aromatic lemongrass chicken burger with garlic aioli, pineapple salsa, spicy Asian slaw to Seafood and basil risotto with native lobster, Devon crab, tiger prawns & squid. Be sure to end your evening with the chocolate bombe – it’ll delight everyone at the table.

Enjoy The Pale Rosé, a juicy and elegant blend from the wider Provençal region in France; Whispering Angel Rosé made from Grenache, Cinsault and Vermentino – a dry wine with a smooth finish; and Rock Angel Rosé bearing a complex and structured taste profile, making it perfect as an aperitif.

The pop up is also the perfect place to inject a bit more sunshine into your summer, as let’s face it, this one has been a little bit drab! A flower arch and floral installation of beautiful pinks, greens, and whites set amongst the elegant surroundings of the roof terrace gives you that bright, sunshiny feeling. And if the British weather does what it does best and rain, they have a retractable roof that will roll on out to keep you nice and dry.

Open seven days a week from 12pm through to 11pm it’s ideal for ladies who lunch, a stylish business meeting, that all important first date, special celebration or even just a fun get-together with friends. And what’s even better is that the club’s sister property, Sloane Place, is located next door, giving you the perfect excuse to stay in stylish South West London.

Located in an iconic red brick building on Lower Sloane Street, the hotel is the younger sister of the 101-year-old Sloane Club next door. With a welcoming reception area, Sloane Place instantly gives the impression of being elegant, stylish, and refined – exactly what we’d expect of a hotel in the heart of Chelsea – yet retains that feel of exclusivity.

Making our way to the room, this feeling carried on throughout the hotel with a warming colour palette of creams, blues and deep golds. The bedrooms are surprisingly spacious for a London hotel with lots of natural lights thanks to the long sash windows. Molton Brown toiletries can be found within your bathroom, along with a deep bath and rainfall shower.

There’s another fabulous restaurant on the ground floor serving up as an alternative option to the roof terrace. We had breakfast here which was fantastic – think matcha lattes (make it dirty by adding a shot), American pancakes and avocado on sourdough toast. If you can bag a table by the window, do, as it makes for the perfect people watching spot.

We’d recommend Sloane Place for a London getaway, and will no doubt book the roof terrace when were in town – come rain or shine!

sloaneplace.com

Planning a trip to London and feel like you need to cram in as much as possible? There’s no need to exhaust yourself running around getting sweaty on the tube in the summer months when there’s everything you need and more in Carnaby Street London . . .

With a compelling heritage that boasts the birthplace of Swinging London in the ‘60s, Carnaby is, today, the go-to destination for global fashion brands, unique independent stores, and world-first concepts. Located in London’s vibrant West End, just a short walk from Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus tube stations, the area invites you to discover over 160 brands spanning fashion, lifestyle, beauty, food, and drink across 14 streets, including the world-famous Carnaby Street.

Check out our guide on how to best utilise your time here . . .

Where to stay . . .

Karma Sanctum Soho

Carnaby Street, London

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.

If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There are surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.

What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!

It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.

sanctumsoho.com

What to see . . .

Carnaby is known for its world-famous art installations, especially at Christmas, but this summer there are some exciting things to feast your eyes on.

Carnaby in Colour summer installation

Spanning across Carnaby Street and Newburgh Street is a brand-new, vibrant feature made exclusively from recycled plastic. Brought to you by the recycling brand ‘Are You Mad’ these three hand/heart-shaped arches will be suspended above the streets until mid-September. Sitting alongside the existing Welcome To Carnaby Street arches that have also been upcycled with colourful recycled hand embellishments, these installations form part of the wider Carnaby in Colour campaign. Crafted using 684kg of recycled plastic waste from local shops and restaurants the installation took four weeks of collecting waste plastic, 16 days of sheet pressing and a team of 13 people to create the finished materials. We think the installation showcases the community, colour and care that Carnaby is all about.

Festoon lights, Kingly Street

Kingly Street is home to some of the best restaurants in Carnaby from Dishoom, Pizza Pilgrims, Kolamba and Dehes. This back street is the perfect place to dine al fresco and enjoy a photo on the outdoor seating under the pink festoon lights.

Ganton Street giant light bulb installation, Ganton Street

The West side of Ganton Street has been taken over by 51 ginormous light bulbs suspended from the sky. Impressive at any time of day, the installation is best viewed at night when the LED bulbs light up in a rainbow of colours creating the most spectacular light show.

Where to shop . . .

Forget trying to dodge all the people on busy Oxford Street and enjoy a calmer and more authentic shopping experience in Carnaby with over 100 stores to satisfy all your shopping needs. There’s everything from international and British heritage labels to independent boutiques, one-off concepts, and bespoke jewellery specialists to name but a few. Here are our standouts –

Mind is Carnaby’s first permanent charity shop and houses a carefully curated collection of preloved vintage and designer stock for the stylish West London shopper. Items in store include the likes of luxury designers Givenchy, Vivienne Westwood, Burberry, Coach and Louis Vuitton, plus new stock will be added to the shelves each day meaning no two shopping experiences will be the same. It’s worth noting that Kate Spade and Lulu Guiness donate unsold stock to them regularly, meaning you can pick up some real bargains, all for a good cause!

Annie’s Ibiza sells a mix of eclectic and rare, one-of-a-kind pieces. Every piece is handpicked by Annie herself and is a reflection of her wardrobe, with a majority of the pieces being exclusively available to Annie’s Ibiza. Even if you don’t buy anything, this store is an experience in itself and an Aladdin’s Cave of gorgeous garments. While there, we found a stunning dress made by Annie that was inspired by designs from the Ottoman Empire, as well as a dress made exclusively from recycled pieces collected from the shop over a year.

Ffern is a natural fragrance maker based in Somerset. It was born out of a simple vision: to restore perfumery to its artisan roots. With this in mind, Ffern creates fragrances that are organic, vegan and made from the highest quality, sustainably sourced, natural ingredients. Working with the rhythms of the seasons, they blend, barrel-age and bottle four unique fragrances a year, released at the equinox and solstice. It’s a beautiful store that makes you feel calm and grounded as soon as you walk through the door.

Kat Maconie shoes are instantly recognisable by their dazzling colour palette, statement hardware frames on architectural heels, and maximalist details. From beaded and bedazzled, to embroidered and appliqued; more is more. Uniquely comfortable and easy to wear, Kat Maconie shoes are designed with comfort and fit at the forefront. It’s a fun fashion for your feet and is bound to add a little spring to your step.

Hayley Menzies has opened the doors to a beautiful new boutique in the heart of Carnaby. The store hosts a highly curated edit of Hayley Menzies essentials for those embarking on a day out in the city’s revered shopping district. Pop downstairs to see what deals she has on and chat with the fab assistants to see what styles they recommend.

Where to eat . . .

With 60 restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from you sure won’t go hungry in Carnaby. We’ve done the hard work and compiled some of the places that are a MUST VISIT, trust us, you wont regret it . . .

Darjeeling Express

This is Indian food cooked from the heart with the all-female kitchen, most of whom began as part-time assistants when Asma started her business years ago, have all been taught to cook by their mothers and grandmothers. Darjeeling Express started as a dinner for 12 guests at home, serving Indian food lovingly cooked from family recipes that go back to generations by founder Asma Khan. Based on the top floor of Kingly Court, her London restaurant is inspired by the interiors of Indian train station waiting rooms filled with terracotta pots and wooden ceiling fans. Discover mouth-watering textures and flavours in her compelling dishes including nourishing Dhall, tender Methi Chicken, and Prawn Malaikari paired with tantalising sides such as Beetroot Chop, Bulandshahr Rogni Roti and Spinach Pakora. The biriyani will have you coming back for more, which probably explains the regular queue outside the door. However, we recommend the set menu dinner served on a large silver tray filled with delectable dishes allowing you to have a taste of everything. And the cocktails are just as good as the food!

darjeeling-express.com

Dishoom

This famous Bombay-inspired eatery can be found throughout the UK, but the Carnaby site is the fourth in the London collection. Inspired by the old Irani cafes that were all the rage in Bombay in the ‘60s, Dishoom pays homage to these now rare places. Rich businessmen, courting couples and sweaty taxi-wallas all frequented the cafés. They were the first places in the city where people from any caste or class could have an inexpensive snack or a hearty meal, or just seek cool refuge from the street with a glass of chai. But now as the city rushes towards modernity, these beautiful old cafés are disappearing, mourned by Bombayites, and fading into memory.

Open all day, pop along for breakfast, lunch or dinner, but be prepared to queue unless you’ve managed to get a booking. Breakfast is our favourite, not only can you usually get a table, it will be a breakfast unlike any you’ve had before. Tuck into their famed bacon naan, try chilli cheese on toast or opt for the never-ending refillable date porridge. What we love the most, however, is that for every breakfast you eat at Dishoom, the restaurant will donate a ‘magic’ breakfast to a school in London. Magic Breakfast charity aims to end hunger as a barrier to education by providing nutritious breakfasts to its partner schools. Now, how lovely is that?

dishoom.com

Zahter

Located on the corner of Foubert’s Place, Zahter showcases true Istabanbulite cuisine with its vibrant places. The interiors comprise a pleasant blue and white palette with the wood and charcoal oven at the centre of it all. Long countertop tables are perfect to perch at and people-watch on a busy afternoon. The menu encompasses finely crafted dishes and exotic tastes all of which are cooked in the open wood-fired oven and are continually changed to showcase what’s in season.

All the dishes were small and designed to be shared, but the menu felt a little overwhelming having little knowledge of Istanbul cuisine, so we asked our delightful waiter to choose for us and boy did he do good! A watermelon salad paired with goat’s cheese, chilli and honey was not something we would have usually opted for, but it was heavenly and the baked aubergine is something like we’ve never had before. Using fresh ingredients is vital for the taste, hence sourcing ingredients from sources and small artisanal producers.

zahter.co.uk

What to do . . .

Pamper at So.Shell

Pop by Ukrainian nail bar, So.Shell, a place where customers don’t have to compromise between time and quality. Here you can get a manicure, pedicure and eyebrow treatment all done in just 90 minutes! However, their large treatment menu extends beyond this with nail extensions, nail art, lash treatments and brow lamination all available and performed by highly qualified professionals. So. Shell interior resembles a holiday destination, helping you to relax and recharge. Dip your feet into a relaxing bath followed by a massage, order a refreshing drink and escape from your daily routine.

I opted for a heavenly pedicure! My technician Irene gave my poor feet some much-needed love and attention, and I left with not only a beautiful bright red pedicure but also a spring in my step.

soshell.uk

Cocktails at Cahoots

Descend into Cahoots for an immersive 1940s experience where you’ll find yourself sipping on themed cocktails from a Toby Jug, jiving away to jazz and swinging the night away in a reworked 1940s tube carriage.

Inspired by the era that saw Londoners take refuge in the underground, as stations were commonly used as air raid shelters during the war, Cahoots replicates the wartime British spirit with drinks and sing-alongs around the piano to boost morale. With an extensive cocktail menu printed on an old newspaper, all drinks are themed and regularly change, making it all too easy to spend most of the evening down here. Be adventurous and ask your waitress (who’ll likely be in character) what they recommend. Wartime rations are served in the form of small plates to share with friends.

cahoots-london.com

Read more about colourful Carnaby over at carnaby.co.uk

Synonymous with central London, and especially famous for its nightlife and LGBT+ community, Soho is much more than its lively streets and vibrant bars. In fact, you won’t need to venture far during your time in London to have a good time.

Check out our guide of how to best spend your time here . . .

Where to stay . . .

Karma Sanctum Soho

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.

If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There’s surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.

What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!

It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.

sanctumsoho.com

Where to shop . . .

Spread across several streets in Soho including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street, Shaftesbury’s Soho portfolio showcases 39 shops with plenty of independent boutiques, here are our top picks –

Sister Ray started as a humble record stall on Camden Market in the mid 80s and has steadily grown into one of London’s most iconic suppliers of quality, alternative vinyl and CDs. Set over two floors, you can expect the likes of the finest new releases alongside a huge range of classic albums and a superb selection of rare and second-hand vinyl.

A Day’s March is a Swedish clothing label with a three-story townhouse in the heart of Soho. The brand reflects their ambition to make clothes that get you through the triumphs and troubles of everyday life. Explore their classic menswear and womenswear collections of high-quality garments, featuring timeless designs for every occasion. You can also relax in their chill-out area post-shop. It’s just as cool as it sounds.

Aēsop specialise in fine quality products for skin, hair and body. Featuring both plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, Aēsop’s products only use those with a proven record of safety and efficacy. The Soho store combines a vast range of products with a modern and minimal design. Head in-store for a personal assessment from on-hand trained consultants, who can provide you with all your skincare answers whilst trying one of their season-appropriate samples.

Where to eat . . .

Discover 31 restaurants, bars and cafes across several Soho streets including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street. Here’s our favourite spots in Soho for some stylish sustenance . . .

Ember Yard

Specialising in dishes inspired by the amazing wood-fired grills of Spain and Italy, Head Chef Adam Kulikowski creates exceptional small and large sharing plates. No fuss. No fanfare. Just flavour. The restaurant is located in the heart of Soho over two floors, including an exciting downstairs space known as The Ember Bar, a slick area in which to indulge on small plates over their impressive cocktail list. Find yourself amongst an electric and buzzy atmosphere making it a perfect space to relax with a drink pre or post dinner.

The aim of the game here is to order a selection of small plates to share which will arrive as and when they’re ready. Their signature dish is the courgette flower which is just as delightful as it sounds, but other notable dishes include their soft shell crab burger, charcoal roasted scallops and prawn croquetas. Definitely try out a few different options from their cocktail menu if you can – they’re not only fun and inventive, but delicious, too.

emberyard.co.uk

Temper

One for meat lovers, this city spot near the shops of Carnaby Street is well worth a visit for those who appreciate great dining experiences. Temper is an ultra-modern and hip hangout that serves some satisfying and social dishes. Begin with creative snacks like the Caramelised Spicy Corn or starters like the Aged Beef Nachos or Beef Fat Cornbread with Gochujang Butter. The main event here is the selection of Barbecued smoked meats and seafood. Beef Brisket with Tajin in Paratha, Sweet & Sour Pork Rib and Chilli & Garlic Prawns all for your order.

Dine on a Sunday and indulge in their famous Sunday roast with a range of meats on offer. Expect enlarged Yorkshire puddings and comforting cauliflower cheese. The open kitchen makes for a theatrical dining experience while the space still feels intimate and cosy.

temperrestaurant.com

Read more about Soho over at thisissoho.co.uk

The grande dame of luxury 5-star hotels in London, The Landmark has recently undergone a major £1.3m refurbishment. Part of that project is to launch a brand-new luxury Champagne Bar. It is on a mezzanine level on their famous garden terrace. The vision of tropical palm trees and the eight-storey-high glass atrium recalls a bygone era of glamour and high society. The Champagne bar designed by Alex Kravetz Design is created to blend in with the luxurious surroundings. The main bar is hidden under a foliage-laden glasshouse. The furnishings have a mixture of vibrant greens, blues, and gold that transports you to the Jazz Age era.

Accentuating that imagery is their High Seas High Tea offering. The hotel offers a traditional afternoon tea at their famous Winter Garden Restaurant but at the Champagne Bar, it is very much seafood-focused. It is available every Saturday and Sunday between 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm. You will also hear the melodic piano sounds emanating from the Victorian Winter Garden atrium. They use the term ‘sandwiches’ but what is served up at the beginning is more tartlets of umami delights from the sea. They offer a tartlet of Scottish lobster, a tartlet of poached langoustine, salmon pastrami, Cornish white crab and yellowfin tuna. Focusing on local produce, the freshness of the seafood is top-notch. The salmon and tuna exuded healthy omega-3 fattiness, whilst the shellfish had a gentle sweetness when you bite into the firm, fresh meat. Each creation has been carefully crafted to maximise the flavours of the seafood. For example, the yellowfin tuna is served with ponzu, black sesame, toasted rye, and fennel butter. The citrus notes from the ponzu are a match made in heaven with the enticing tuna.

The fruity flavours were very much in evidence with their scones and desserts. The scones were either freshly baked apple or raisin scones. All the condiments you would ever need were present from clotted cream to a plethora of jams. The options included Bergeron apricot, London marmalade, strawberry, rhubarb, redcurrant & vanilla and raspberry deluxe. Each scone was generously sized and I have no doubt, they would offer you a refill if you asked.

The desserts were exquisitely presented with a parade of appetising colours. If you are looking for something subtle and delicate, there is the tartlet of nectarine, ginger, mascarpone and raspberry gel. The nectarines were sliced with military precision and presented in an intricate rose shape. If you are looking for textural variety, there is the black cherry and pistachio bakewell. The key is all the creations were sweet without being overbearing. And they do offer boxes for you to take away anything you can’t finish. They only use the finest of ingredients from Valrhona dark chocolate in their choux to English strawberries in their Swiss rolls.

The tea offering also shines brightly in this regal afternoon tea experience. They have green teas, herbal teas, oolong tea and white tea. That includes very high-end options such as Snow Buds white tea. which is high-altitude-grown white tea made entirely of silver-haired tea buds. That creates an elegant, sweet-flavour profile with delicate vegetal notes.

The afternoon tea is available at £75pp or £88pp with a glass of Ruinart Champagne Brut.

If you visit in the evenings, they do still offer seafood-focused small plates, as well as heritage tomato tart and British cheese plates. They also serve a caviar selection that ranges from platinum caviar to the rare, golden oscietra. They have a lengthy Champagne selection that includes on the top end, Krug, Grande Cuvée MV. They can offer a Taittinger Champagne flight, which is 100ml per glass which is great if you want to pair your glass of bubbly with your seafood.

If you want to impress friends or family with a special treat, do consider inviting them to a High Seas High Tea at The Landmark London.

To find out more about the afternoon tea, please visit

https://www.landmarklondon.co.uk/dining/champagne-bar/

As my car turns onto the sweeping drive of Schloss Roxburghe it’s hard not to be impressed. This country pile in the heart of the Scottish Borders stands proud amongst pretty gardens and perfectly manicured lawns against a backdrop of lush green countryside and rolling hills.

Once owned by the Duke of Roxburghe, this quintessential country house hotel has undergone a full refurbishment and expansion bringing an additional 58 rooms, self-catering cottages, and a Finnish inspired spa facility to the property. The new extended Estate House is sympathetic to the rest of the hotel. The seamless extension boasts similar rich colours and textures to the main house that it’s hard to spot the old from the new. Tartans combined with oak, natural stone and plush textiles successfully fuse Scottish heritage with contemporary design. I checked into one of the new park view rooms that overlooks the championship golf course set amongst the grounds. The rooms in the new estate are spacious and modern, lots of white and teal dominate the colour palette with accents of gold. The bathroom has a large walk-in shower, heated floor and is loaded with Molton Brown toiletries.

Schloss Roxburghe is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. With over 300 acres of land including two and a half miles of the River Teviot, Trout Loch, beautiful parkland and Estate gardens, it is a fabulous place to enjoy nature. I spent an afternoon with the hotel’s very own Ray Mears, Ian Fairgrieve, to try my hand at some country outdoor pursuits. With an extensive programme of activities, you can find something to suit your preferences and skill level. First up for me was archery on the lawn in the front of the house. After a quick demonstration and advice from Ian I was firing arrows like Robin Hood. We then moved on to the lake for a bit of trout fishing. I’m a total novice when it comes to country pursuits but was instantly put at ease and was soon confidently casting for my catch. Shortly after I caught a trout, which was immediately sent to the kitchen to be cooked for my supper. However, my confidence was dashed at the shooting range as my hand eye coordination and reaction speed wasn’t hitting the mark. Despite not hitting one shot on target, I had great fun and learned some new skills.

After all the activities I was ready to relax. The new 1100sqm spa facility has floor to ceiling windows that look out to the grounds and a heated outdoor infinity edge pool. With a spacious indoor relaxation zone guests can unwind or book one of the spa treatments featuring Aromatherapy Associates and Kloris products. There’s an additional plunge pool, a Finnish dry sauna and an aromatic sauna.

Expect a warm welcome, the staff are the jewel in the Schloss crown bringing their relaxed, friendly Scottish disposition to your stay. The team are knowledgeable and quick to ensure you have everything you need to make your break enjoyable. In 1745, the hotel bar the resident mixologist will whip up something special using their own label gin, Lady Chatto Rose, distilled locally it includes botanicals grown on the grounds. You certainly won’t go hungry here, the food choice is extensive from loaded breakfast buffets to afternoon tea. Charlie’s, named after Bonnie Prince Charlie, who frequented the place in 1745, offers ‘Scottish bistronomy’, using the highest quality ingredients and gourmet cooking techniques. For those looking for something special then book the seven-course tasting menu at Sunlaws. Available with wine pairing it showcases fine dining at its best.

This rural retreat is a stunning Scottish hideaway, perfect for slowing down and unwinding. By the time I checked out, I felt every inch Lady of the Manor.

Rooms at Schloss Roxburghe are from £239 per night in a King Bed Estate including breakfast.

Walk into the entrance of The NICI hotel and you are instantly transported to South Beach, Miami. Candy coloured prints, raffia beach bags and opulent gold touches are scattered around this stylish five-star destination resort. Unlike the dilapidated B&B’s that flank the Bournemouth seafront, The NICI is a cool, chic coastal gem that gives all the SoBe vibes.

My sea-view suite is a generous size and comes with a free-standing bath, a retro drinks trolley loaded with complimentary rum and an outdoor terrace overlooking the pool, ideal for sundowners. The room is light and airy with accents of green and further nods to the hotel’s art deco style. There’s 84 luxury bedrooms, many with spectacular coastline views, garden hot tub suites and family rooms. Each one comes with fluffy white bath robes and a supply of Malin+Goetz toiletries.

Relaxed dining is the focus at the hotel’s restaurant, South Beach. With floor to ceiling views of the pool and gardens as well as a terrace for alfresco dining, it’s the perfect spot for a late supper. The menu is versatile and caters for those who want healthy light bites as well as more substantial dishes. There’s an afternoon tea menu too.

Beyond the luxurious accommodations and outstanding dining options, The NICI excels in providing a range of exceptional amenities. Having undergone a £20m refurbishment, it is bringing a slice of style to the south coast. A 30m outdoor heated pool complete with pretty pastel striped loungers, cabanas and firepits makes it the most Instagramable spots in the town. The team behind the hotel has pulled out all the stops to make sure guests are catered for and have access to top notch facilities. The kids club and cinema room are great additions for the less sunny days. Wellness lovers can explore the ten miles of coastline using the complimentary bikes or hit the waves with one of the paddleboards and kayaks, all free of charge. The spa will also run a programme of outdoor fitness sessions from boardwalk runs, to exhilarating sea swims and beach fitness classes.

The spa facilities are an oasis of relaxation, offering a range wellness solutions designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The NICI Spa features a 18m heated indoor pool and hydrotherapy pool, alongside a steam room and aromatherapy sauna. There’s also a fully equipped gym. With eight treatment rooms, including a treatment room for two, they have partnered with award winning spa brands, OTO CBD and OSKIA, to create a bespoke menu of holistic therapies, which includes bamboo massage, sound therapy and innovative anti-ageing techniques. The OTO Signature treatment is 90 minutes of zen, using a CBD oil tailored to your needs the therapist gets to work on releasing any stress or tension in the body while delivering the optimum amount of CBD. The spa is one of the hotel highlights and after my OTO massage I spent the afternoon on the crystal energy loungers, making the most of the opportunity to tune out.

What truly sets The NICI apart is the level of personalised service. From the reception team to the restaurant staff, they all have the knack of making you feel like a truly valued guest and ensuring your stay exceeds all expectations.

Rooms from £230 per room, per night. Visit www.thenici.com