Freyja Hanstein’s cookbook delves into the healing power of food, with an NHS-backed app that offers a 360 approach to wellness
Freyja Hanstein offers a candid insight into the inspiration behind her debut cookbook, Wholesome World, retelling her love story with her late husband Lars with warmth, to the point where he passed away from Synovial Sarcoma cancer in 2014. As if this wouldn’t be enough for one human to bear, Freyja was diagnosed with a brain tumour later that year, leading to her spending time in and out of hospital, having to contend with major surgery, as well as unpleasant symptoms.
Following brain surgery on the temporal lobe, Freyja was then put through post-op treatment, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Freyja had to relearn how to speak, how to put sentences together; she couldn’t even remember her loved ones’ names at some points.
But out of these extremely testing circumstances, Freyja found a way to channel her energy into something truly beautiful; a nourishing cookbook called Wholesome World. In the upstairs room at Arthur Hoopers in bustling Borough Market, one of Freyja’s favourite restaurants in the city, Freyja allows me to sample culinary treats such as spiced baba ghanoush with seeded crackers, freshly squeezed turmeric and ginger juice with a warming kick, and the most delicious homemade jam; all recipes from Wholesome World.
All the recipes in her book are carefully researched and crafted from ingredients that have numerous health benefits, particularly when it comes to boosting immunity and warding off illnesses. Recipe highlights include beetroot, potato and horseradish rostis, fish tacos and summer salad and a deliciously-rich beef cacao stew.
During our meeting, I revealed how my own life had recently been shaken by a cancer diagnosis, with my mum having been diagnosed with breast cancer just weeks before our meeting. Kind-hearted Frejya insisted I took a copy of the book for my mum too, which she read cover to cover and started trying recipes from immediately. To know that she was cooking dishes that had the backing of experts as being nourishing and immunity boosting was a great comfort for her going through her treatment.
And it’s not just the book that can help those looking to pursue a healthier lifestyle – with or without a cancer diagnosis – there’s also an NHS-backed app to help you on your wellness journey through making better diet choices. As well as a library of recipes, the app offers nutritional insight and digital health links. You can download the app here.
Cancer is still very much a taboo, a word said in hushed tones, shrouded with fear. But the more we can openly talk about the disease that now affects one in two of us, the more we can talk about how we can change our lifestyle habits in ways proven to help fight it, the better. It’s commendable that Freyja is taking such a bold step in this direction, with a book filled with delicious recipes that everyone can enjoy.
“The sun always shines in Newmarket,” tour guide Malcom tells me as we walk around the National Stud, just outside the town centre, its perfectly manicured fields bathed in a late-summer glow. This isn’t the only thing about sunny Newmarket that feels idyllic.
The whole place feels peaceful, a far cry from hectic city life, with acres of green space at every turn, from picnic fields to the manicured lawns of the Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa to the Gallops. Newmarket is the only place in the UK where horses have the right of way, so travel can be slower, but you get the distinct feeling that nobody here is ever really in a rush.
A united love of horses – and horse racing – bonds the town. Not to mention the horse racing museum, as well as the training fields and National Stud making for popular tourist attractions, there are also statues of famous racehorses dotted around the town and Newmarket is home to not one, but two, racecourses – the July Course and the Rowley Mile Course – as well as being the national headquarters for the legendary Jockey Club.
Horses racing at Newmarket Rowley Mile racecourse
It’s fair to say that my whistle-stop tour of this peaceful Suffolk town involved a fair bit of horse racing history and a trip to one of Newmarket’s famous racecourses, but there’s a lot more to love about this historic destination, including fine dining, an award-winning spa and the chance to spend some time in the great outdoors. Here’s how I spent 24 hours in Newmarket.
2pm
National Horseracing Museum
After an hour’s train ride from London to Cambridge, followed by a quick 19 minutes to Newmarket and I had arrived. First up was lunch at the Tack Room – a delicious open steak sandwich with a seasonal salad – and we were off to explore the National Horseracing Museum. The museum is packed with artefacts from around the world, as well as plenty of information about the origins of horseracing and how the sport has developed over the decades.
4pm
After checking into the luxurious Jockey Club Rooms, our tour guide, Frankie, shows me around the building, which is every bit as grand and elegant as you’d expect from such an institution. The Jockey Club was founded in 1750 by some of the most influential figures in British society who shared a passion for horse racing. It was originally intended as a place to meet and discuss their shared interest, as well as important affairs and host special guests in the grand dining room.
Today, the Jockey Club is the largest commercial horse racing organisation in the UK, owning 15 of Britain’s most famous racecourses, including the Rowley Mile and July Course in Newmarket, as well as Aintree, Cheltenham and Epsom Downs.
5pm
After a busy day exploring, it was time for a little R&R at the award-winning spa in the Bedford Lodge Hotel and Spa. Sitting adjacent to the hotel, the hotel’s spa has a rooftop hot tub, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, and experiential showers. It’s light and airy, with far lovelier views over the town’s atmospheric architecture than photographs would have you believe.
7.30pm
Newmarket gin served at the Bedford Lodge Hotel and Spa
Our dining experience begins with a refreshing Newmarket gin, of course. A small-batch gin brand presented in a delightful racing-themed bottle. Then on to the main event in the hotel’s cosy restaurant, serving a seasonal menu and some seriously delicious desserts.
9.30pm
A short drive back to the Jockey Club rooms and it was time to turn in for the night. The Jockey Club Rooms chambers are spacious and homely, with traditional, yet stylish, decor and a cosy feel. It’s easy to get an early night in the super-comfy beds at the Jockey Club Rooms, complete with luxurious bedding and cosy throws for snuggling down under now the cooler weather has set in.
Day 2
7.30am
I’m repeatedly told that Newmarket rises early. The first lot of horses are taken out of the stables for a ride across the training grounds at 6am, but we’re going to catch a slightly later session. I head out to the front of the building where a new tour guide, the lovely Malcolm, is waiting for me in a branded black cab – the perfect chariot for guiding us around the sights of Newmarket on a morning excursion.
First we watch the horses on their morning ride, which turns out to be such a peaceful start to the day. There’s also the option to enjoy some bubbles while you watch, if you’re celebrating the sights of Newmarket.
9am
The National Stud
We’re back in time to enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Jockey Club Rooms, which for me means a huge veggie breakfast, plenty of coffee to prepare me for the day ahead, fresh juice and fruit and yoghurt. After a quick outfit change, it was time to head off to the National Stud – quite literally, where the magic happens.
10am
A visit to the National Stud offers an insight into how the race horses of tomorrow are bred, as well as taking a look at some of the most famous racing horses of years gone by. Malcolm talked me through the turbulent history of Mill Reef, who was largely considered one of the finest racehorses to run in the second half of the 20th Century. Mill Reef won both his starts as a four-year-old before his racing career was ended by injury, but inspired such fandom that one woman apparently still visits his grave every year to leave flowers – and says she loves Mill Reef even more than her husband, Malcolm tells me.
There’s the chance here to see the horses up close and how well they’re looked after; animal welfare is clearly a top priority across the different attractions and facilities in Newmarket. Our final visit in Newmarket is to feed some foals a few apples before heading on the road again – a sweet and heartwarming finish to the visit.
12pm
Next, we’re off to our final stop of the day; the Rowley Mile racecourse. After a quick tour around the grounds including a peek inside the Royal Box, Malcolm offers up some advice on picking a winner, as well as how to place a bet and find the best deals on the day, for racing novices. I’m then left to my own devices to enjoy an afternoon of racing at one of the UK’s most historic racecourses – a fitting end to my whistle-stop tour of brilliant Newmarket.
Bridgerton fans, rejoice! The talk of the Ton is that Lady Whistledown is hosting the biggest ball yet – and we’re all invited.
Bridgerton x Secret Cinema with Fever is set to be one of the interactive experience’s most flamboyant settings yet, not to mention a real Regency knees-up, with cocktails and snacks inspired by the hit show. In order to announce the special news, Bridgerton actors stormed our very own iconic Regent Street, transforming it into Regency Street for the day. What followed was an impromptu flash dance, celebrating the opening of the new immersive experience inspired by the global sensation and hit series from Netflix and Shondaland.
The shows will take place in Wembley throughout March, finishing up on the 27th. And while we don’t have all the details yet (and Secret Cinema are careful to always keep some surprises under wraps) we do have a few clues as to what will go down.
The costumes will be epic
Expect everything from Regency dresses, to cutaway coats, top hats, and everything in between. You will be assigned a specific dress code to suit your Regency alter-ego and strongly encouraged to get into character. Secret Cinema’s The Boutique offers everything you might need to prepare yourself for the evening. Or, feel free to improvise.
It will be a visual masterpiece
The night will feature The Lumiere Brothers’ Incredible Moving Light Show in the ballroom. Here, guests will mingle with their favourite characters as they move through projected images. Remember, phones and cameras are banned at Secret Cinema, so you can fully relish the moment.
Expect lavish and luxurious decor
Sure, the pastel-hued reimagined regency era of Bridgerton is a little closer to our own work than the sets of Back To The Future or Stranger Things depicted in previous Secret Cinema shows. But that doesn’t mean you won’t still get lost in the glitz and glamour of Lady Whistledown’s world. Guests are sure to relish the strong mix of opulent period pieces and modern lighting and cinematography.
Matt Costain, Creative Director of Secret Cinema presents Bridgerton with Fever, said, “Re-imagining the stunning world of the Netflix and Shondaland hit series Bridgerton and conjuring up Regency-era London has been a pleasure. From casting and costumes to soundtrack and set design,Bridgertonhas pushed boundaries and we’re excited to take this even further by bringing the scandalous world to life.
“This is an immersive experience that marries 1800s London with modern-day special effects, while characters from Bridgertonmove freely through the world, interacting with guests. Working with our production partners Fever, we’ve created a ball that will play out uniquely for each individual guest. Whether you wish to observe as part of The Ton, pose in the artist’s den, train at the boxing club, or take centre stage on the dancefloor, there’s something for everyone.”
Tickets to the ball, a ball like no other, are on sale now at secretbridgertonball.com. Prices start at £49 + booking fee.
Co-produced by Secret Cinema, the creative pioneers of immersive storytelling, and Fever, the leading entertainment discovery platform, Secret Cinema presents Bridgerton with Fever is the second collaboration between Netflix, Secret Cinema, and Fever.
Make Valentine’s Day extra special… without leaving the house. These delicious recipe boxes and takeaway options mean you can enjoy a restaurant-style experience at home.
Don’t fancy a night out this Valentine’s? Who can blame you… It’s cold, it’s on a Monday, and Pam & Tommy just dropped on Disney+. If it’s a cozy night in for you, why not treat yourself to something special, whether that’s a fancy takeaway, delicious meal kit, or extra-special dessert. Staying at home can be just as good as going out with these tasty – and easy-to-prepare – options.
Burger & Loster DIY Meal kit
Enjoy a signature spread from the favourite London restaurant with whole Nova Scotian lobster followed by an 8oz Nebraskan beef burger and a lobster roll to share, plus two Potts & Co Lemon and lime possets to finish. Just to top things off, the kit also comes with two Espresso Martinis from MOTH Drinks.
This dim sum date box includes innovative and delicious dishes such as limited edition rose leaf bao and scallop and Chinese leek dumpling. We love this 100% handmade, gourmet-style dim sum, from London based Mai Dim Sum, who have recently opened their first pop-up restaurant as well as a home delivery service.
For those who want some real luxury this Valentine’s Day, try this box of treats from Farmison & Co. The Luxury Steak & Caviar Box includes a British chateaubriand heritage beef and Kings Imperial caviar. This is accompanied by a decadent truffle and parmesan butter, a full-bodied rich red wine sauce, and some beef dripping koffman chips, as well as a starter of hand-carved smoked salmon, with a traditional London cure.
Why not just go straight to dessert with this box of sweet treats from PAUL Bakery. The box includes four sumptuous heart-shaped cakes, generously packaged alongside a box of 12 PAUL mini macarons.
London-based Hoppers offers delicious Sri Lankan and south Indian-inspired dishes packed with flavour. The kit includes a feast of lamb shank Kari, bream with lemongrass and chilli, mutton rolls with Sri Lankan hot sauce, and Love Cake to finish.
There’s no need for Valentine’s Day to be met by a collective groan from singles. In fact, why not use the day of love to invest in yourself with one of these decadent gifts. Whether you have a partner or not, let February 14th be the day for spoiling… yourself. Light a candle, draw a relaxing bath, and slip into something more comfortable for a night that’s all about you. After all, self-love is the best love.
These gifts range from little treats to luxurious buys, with our curation of Valentine’s Day gifts keeping self-care front of mind. The gifts we tend to give ourselves are largely practical – we often splash out on the things we need, rather than want. There will be none of that here, with sumptuous and indulgent buys you perhaps wouldn’t normally justify. Have a loving partner? We still recommend treating yourself. After all, nobody loves you like you do.
Damesfly Candles, available at Harvey Nichols, from £48. With touching messages that keep it real, Australian candle brand Damesfly are a great choice for getting cozy with this Valentine’s Day.
2.Yaa Yaa London ‘Quietly Confident’ Pink Earrings, £59. These statement earrings are handmade using precious stones and are beautiful and unique – just like you. Brushed metal is teamed with gate crystal-lined stones to create these eye-catching earrings, with no two pairs the same.
3. The Stopover: The Mile High Club by T L Swan, available at Amazon, from £4.99. Fasten your seatbelt, you’re in for a real ride. There’s a reason why our wellness editor and editor-in-chief are raving about this saucy slice of escapism. And the good news is, there’s a sequel.
4. Ivy Ekong Fashion Amie Dress, £159. There’s power dressing, then there’s the blazer dress. This beautiful tweed dress can be worn both day and night.
5. Hill & Friends Its Lit Candle, £55. Scented candles are our love language. And this special treat is scented with a medley of pomegranate, pepper, and spice with a tang of blackcurrants.
6. BEAU Polish Chan Y’all Feel The Love, £7.50. BEAU Polish is a small, independent beauty brand championing inclusivity. We love this bright and bold shade in pillar box red – perfect for a statement V-Day mani.
7. Yogipod Relaxation Gift Bundle, £20. We love this gift box of hand-printed yoga props brand that will help you find your calm and encourage a moment of zen this Valentine’s Day.
8. Little Moons ‘You Mean So Mochi To Me’ gift box, available to purchase from Deliveroo, Heavenly Desserts, Westfield London, and Selfridges Pick & Mix mochi bar, £15. They do say the way to my own heart is through my stomach, so when it comes to self-love, dessert is king. Enjoy a plethora of Little Moons flavours with this delicious gift box.
Sometimes, we all need a release. Whether to you that means pounding the treadmill at the gym, escaping in a camper van to somewhere where the pace is a little slower, or letting it all go while headbanging to thrash mental, escapism is key. An itch to scratch, an urge to satisfy. But one staycation destination that’s taking this to the next level, is London’s Mama Shelter, with a minibreak that offers a release in its most primal form: the sexcation.
Now what exactly is a sexcation, you may ask. Will there be lube-themed toiletries? Butlers in the buff? Handcuffs adorning every doorknob? It’s not quite as crass as that. A sexcation is more a chance to dedicate a weekend to your sexual pleasure, whether that’s with a partner, lover, or your own fine self, with the help of a few prompts to aid a sexual awakening.
Modern life and its many stresses can have us so tightly wound, boxed in by schedules and rules. It’s easy to become disconnected from our sexual side, with so much to contend with in the outside world. How liberating to put that on hold for a little while in a decadent hideaway to indulge in what ultimately is an act of self-care. Just a super sexy one.
What’s included in a Mama Shelter Sexcation package?
Now, the details. Upon arrival for the two-night Sexcation package at Mama Shelter, guests will be treated to a glass of bubbly each, followed by a ‘Sexy Mama Box’ packed with treats to enhance your sexual pleasure.
This will include branded condoms, lube, fragrant massage oils, plus other sexy surprises, as well as complimentary in-room adult films. As part of the package, breakfast for two will also be included as well as a late check out until 2pm, allowing guests to savour every last spicy moment.
According to a recent study from MysteryVibe, 40% of Brits has less sex during the pandemic, despite being cooped up together due to lockdown restrictions. It’s safe to say many of us are in need of a booster when it comes to practicing a little passion, so a weekend break dedicated to just that could be just the ticket.
Mama Shelter Shoreditch’s ‘Sexcation’ package can be booked online using the promo code ‘Sexy’. This offer is available for a 2-nights minimum stay for 2 guests at Mama Shelter Shoreditch, for Medium and Large Mama Double room types, at a £249 starting price.
For your favourite feminist in your life, gift buying is easy. Whether it’s a daily journal that will help her plan for world domination, or artwork that celebrates fearless women, this guide to the ultimate feminist gifts has you covered.
Show you care with a badass book tackling social issues from the likes of Florence Given, or treat your bestie to a bottle of Lady A, the premier new rosé that celebrates both wine and art. In the spirit of self-love, we may just have to treat ourselves to a few of these brilliant gifts…
Women Don’t Owe You Pretty, by Florence Given This debut hybrid of vibrant illustrations and sage advice from 21-year-old feminist and activist Florence is had skyrocketed in popularity thanks to its unique and relatable take on addressing social issues surrounding women. Even just a quick flick through of this book will make you feel inspired. £12.99 at Waterstones
Freida Kahlo Portrait T-Shirt We love this cute tee, paying homage to one of the biggest artist icons of our time. Perfect for a fashion-forward friend with a unique style. £19 at The Spark Company
Emmeline Pankhurst by Stanley Chow Fine Art Print Tastefully framed on high-quality, textured paper, this vibrant print pays homage to one of our top tier female icons. We love this pop-art take on a classic portrait. £24 at Egoiste Gallery
Raging Feminist Killjoy Mug Who said feminists don’t have a sense of humour? This cute mug is sure to plaster a big smile on whoever receives it. £13 at The Spark Company
Subscription to Emjoy Emjoy is an audio-app for women who want to explore and expand their sexual wellbeing, encouraging self-care and self-loving. There’s a range of exercises and erotic stories, as well as access to some of the best sex therapists and mindfulness experts. £29.99 for a yearly subscription at Google Play
Lady A Rosé Wine Vincent Gasnier, the Master Sommelier for the Soho House group, teamed up with the iconic Chateau la Coste estate in Provence to create this dreamy, sophisticated wine, aptly named Lady A. £14.95 at 31 Dover
Lethally Her 2021 Planner This brilliant 2021 planner has everything covered, from daily affirmations, to yearly budget planning. An essential tool for helping you live your best life. Stay organised, inspired and driven in 2021 and make it your best year yet. £30 at Lethally Her
I’m of the opinion that Manchester is the best city in the UK; but then again, I am biased. Before migrating to the south in search of a journalism career in the Big Smoke, I lived in Manchester and I miss it dearly. Growing up I enjoyed my fair share of cocktail-fuelled nights spent under the arches of Deansgate Locks or sneaking into the private member’s clubs that were the epitome of glamour in the noughties. But Manchester’s evolution since I left the city has been monumental, its incredible food and bar scene evolving rapidly over the last decade. Thanks to an influx of media jobs via Media City in Salford and suburbs like Altincham becoming home to some of the country’s leading food markets, Manchester’s offering has gone from strength to strength. If you’re going to spend just a few days in the city, this is how to pack in all of Manchester’s finest experiences.
10am: first, coffee
For the best coffee spots, head down to the Northern Quarter, a largely pedestrianised hub of independent shops and bars. There’s an industrial vibe here, with street art adorning every corner. You’re spoilt for choice in terms of pared-back, Nordic-style cafes that take their coffee very seriouly. I’d recommend Takk, which draws its influences from Iceland and offers tasty breakfast treats like blueberry porridge and French toast, or Foundation Coffee House for a reliable cuppa. They also do a cracking espresso martini, if you’re past the yardarm. Another personal favourite is Another Heart To Feed, a Melbourne-inspired cafe, bar and brunch spot.
12pm: fill ya boots
While you’re in the vicinity, the Northern’s Quarter’s vintage offering is spectacular. Affleck’s Palace is a treasure trove of retro pieces, costumes, jewellery and accessories, as well as being a hub for tattoo artistry. Pop to Oldham Street to peruse shops like Fig & Sparrow, Piccadilly Records and Magma to shop vintage clothes, gifts, magazines and records. Tibb Street is another one to tick off your list of must-visit destinations, with my favourite-ever flower shop, Northern Flower, offering vibrant, unusual floral arrangements and an abundance of plants and succulents. If you venture to this part of the city around evening time, be sure to make a pit-stop at Manchester’s most famous, yet well hidden, jazz bar, Matt & Phreds. The Northern Quarter has been accused of losing its cool in recent years thanks to an influx of hen and stags descending on its cobbled streets and identikit bars and coffee shops, but a recent trip back to the area proved it’s still full of its original charm, if you side-step the L-plates and occasional chain pub.
2pm: a cultural excursion
Manchester has plenty to offer in terms of culture, particularily if you’re a football or music fan. Visit the National Football Museum on Todd Street or hop on the tram up to Old Trafford if that’s your bag, but if, like me, you’d rather revel in Manchester’s musical history, a trip to Salford’s Lads’ Club to honour The Smiths and the band’s iconic hayday photograph should be on your to-do list. The Whitworth Art Gallery is my favourite in the city; there’s always a brilliant exhibition on, with recent favourites including an exploration of Utopia throughout history and collections from greats like Andy Warhole and Cornelia Parker. For a spot of tea or afternoon snack, the gallery cafe has beautiful views over the park.
6pm: feeding time
It’s impossible to choose just one favourite restaurant in Manchester; the city is teeming with incredible culinary offerings. If you can only eat in one place, I’d say go for the stunningly situated The Refuge, a dramatic dining experience serving creative small and large plates, as well as a winter garden cocktail lounge. The Refuge is housed within the sumptuous The Principle Hotel, which is well worth a stay in if you’re looking for a city centre hotel that will knock your socks off.
7pm: bar crawlling
As the birthplace of musical greats like Oasis and The Smiths, you’d expect Manchester to have a solid music scene. Music from all genres makes up the backing track to Manchester’s vibrant bars, with plenty of areas in which to crawl through with a drink in hand. Going back to the Northern Quarter is a great place to start, its windy streets filled with eccentric bars and revamped traditional pubs, many with a hidden rooftop or terrace to while the night away in. A few to add to your list are Port Street Beer House for traditional ales, Guilty By Association for dimly-lit cocktail shenanigans and Dusk Til Pawn for weird and very wonderful interiors (it’s a hidden bar in what used to be a dodgy-looking pawn shop). And that’s just to name a few.
If you’re after something a little more swish and are partial to enjoying a glittering skyline alongside your martini, head to one of Manchester’s famous rooftop spots to take in the views. Cloud 23, which is housed inside the Hilton at the top of Deansgate Street, boasts arguably the best views in the city. Newcomer 20 Stories has firmly established itself as one of the best places to enjoy a glass of bubbly or expertly-crafted cocktail while overlooking the city’s rooftops. The venue houses a restaurant and lively bar, as well as a heated winter terrace. 20 Stories is situated in Spinningfields, which is full of decadent cocktail spots, fancy wine bars and some of Manchester’s best restaurants, so it’s well worth a wander to this corner of the city.
1am: karaoke in Chinatown
For me there’s only one way to end a night out in Manchester. And that’s with dumplings and blaring out Kiki Dee and Elton John. Chinatown is another area of Manchester worth discovering, marked by its impressive structure, situated at the foot of Faulkner Street, where you’ll find delights such as Happy Seasons Restaurant and The Little Yang Sing. Karaoke spots in Chinatown are available in abundance, but if you’re looking for guidance, I can vouch for K2 Karaoke Nightclub, with a neon basement bar and wide range of tracks ready for you to do your worst to. Orchid Lounge is also a great shout for those who fancy murdering a tune or two, plus it’s open until 4am.
11am: bloody mary o’clock
Are there many things in life that can’t be cured by a decent bloody mary? Likely not. Japanese-inspired restaurant Cottonopolis offers a spicy variety that will wash away any traces of last night’s bar crawl-induced hangover, while El Capo is the perfect place to induge in some Mexican brunch classics, with two variations on offer; the classic and a Bloody Maria, which is served with tequila and lime, instead of vodka and lemon. Viva Mexico!
1pm: take the tram
Or ‘The Met’ as we affectionately called it… Manchester’s suburbs are worth exploring; especially as the Metrolink offers you easy access to pretty much any of the surrounding areas within 20 minutes. Neighbouring Altrincham’s food market, officially called Altrincham Market, is a popular spot for a weekend wander, offering an abundance of tasty food of all varieties. Dumplings, sushi, sourdough pizza, aperol spritz and lovely red wines; all the usual suspects. After enjoying anything from a nibble to a three-course meal, persuse stalls selling jewellery, dresses, wine, gin, handmade beauty products and pretty trinkets.
5pm: time for a brew
You’re welcome to opt for a cuppa now, but I was actually refering to something stronger. Manchester has a number of excellent tap rooms on offer where you can taste some of the country’s tastiest IPAs and ales. You’ll have to travel to the outskirts of the city, but it’s well worth the trip. Manchester Brewing Company has a sterling reputation, but my favourite has to be the newly instated Cloudwater Brewing Company.
8pm: one last hurrah
For a Manchester staycation, it would only be right to go out on a bang, so we’d advise dining somewhere truly special for your final meal in the city. Newbie Mana means business – in 2019 it became the first restaurant in Manchester to receive a Michelin star since 1977. Situated on Blossom Street, its considered dishes are visually stunning and a joy to eat. If you want something more low-key to end your Manchester experience, the Northern Quarter’s Rudys is legendary for its pizza offering.
The festive season is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the most magical time of year than sipping a glass of champagne somewhere luxurious?
Okay, so we may have to do all our sipping before 10pm and only with our nearest and dearest household members, but enjoying a socially-distanced drink in one of London’s top champagne drinking spots is sure to get anyone ready for the festive season. Things may be a little different this year, but that’s all the more reason to revel in small pleasures and, for me, a glass of champers with a friend is the ultimate decadent treat.
London is home to many an iconic drinks spots, but these are my top recommendations for a magical, fizz-fuelled evening in the capital.
Best London champagne bars for a magical evening in the city
The latest new hot spot to arrive at London’s glittering Selfridges store is the London Calling champagne bar. This is the place to sip champagne like a quintessential Brit, in surroundings designed by London’s most iconic motifs – the red telephone booth. Within this specially designed space will be a stylish champagne bar and a curated exhibition of moments of celebration in London from 1980 to 1990s. You can also take advantage of a limited edition personalised gift box service, ‘Specially Yours’.
Is there any better combination than bubbles and cheese? We’ll wait. Nestled in bustling Brixton Village where you can pick up plants, trinkets, vintage buys, your weekly fruit and veg haul, plus enjoy cuisine from pretty much anywhere in the world, Champagne + Fromage is always a busy spot thanks to its delicious offerings. This charming venue also serves charcuterie boards, salads, desserts and French beer, but let’s face it, we’re here for the fizz. The selection is vast and champions lesser-known champagne brands, with staff on hand who are more than happy to impart their wisdom on the bubbly stuff.
While it may not strictly be a bar, we couldn’t resist adding this luxurious London restaurant to the list. Bob Bob Richard became an Instagram sensation with its iconic ‘press for champagne’ button within easy reach of diners. We defy anyone to visit this restaurant without ordering some fizz! Champagne connoisseurs will rejoice at what they claim to be the biggest selection of champers of any UK restaurant.
An absolute classic, this is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a truly iconic cocktail bar. The cocktails themselves are expertly crafted, but there are few that can beat a crisp, clean glass of ice cold champers while propping up the (very plush) bar. There are two reasons The Savoy’s American Bar justifies its £20 price tag for a glass of fizz. Firstly, it’s Louis Roederer champagne, known to be one of the best non-vintage wines around. Secondly, the measure is 150ml, rather than a standard 125ml, to prolong the decadence. The surroundings are spectacular, with art-decor inspired designs that will transport you to the roaring twenties. Plus how could you resist not to take a peek at the hotel’s famous lobby while you’re there…
Champagne is preferably drunk here just before boarding the Eurostar to Paris, but even if you’re not off an excursion, it’s still a pretty impressive place to enjoy some bubbly and watch the world go by. We’d recommend a Veuve Clicquot Champagne Trio, which includes Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, Veuve Clicquot Rosé and Veuve Clicquot Vintage 2012 Blanc for £27 per person.
House of Coco chatted to former Leeds resident Steven Guthrie about upping sticks and moving across the pond to Canada. He tells us why he fell in love with the city he now calls home, plus the inside scoop on the best places in town to see, drink and dine.
Years ago, I’d have laughed if you told me I’d be a Toronto resident. Leeds was my home. I was nicely settled in at my first house; a bricks and mortar manifestation of years of working hard in my role within the NHS. Leeds was my city and I was there to stay, until a trip to Toronto changed everything. In a crowded Toronto bar, the night before I was due to fly back to the UK, I met Kevin. And my fate was sealed; not only would I fall in love with Kevin, but also with the city of Toronto. I liked Toronto. It has a friendly, open vibe and is so diverse. Torontonians love their sports, their coffee and Drake is basically royalty. Leeds was home; it’s where I lived for 13 years, and where I made lifelong friends. But Toronto is where the next chapter of my life has begun.
From Friday night in the city
Toronto has some amazing restaurants. With such a diverse population comes the opportunity to take a trip around the world every time you go out to eat. My top recommendations include Gusto 101 (a stylish Italian in the heart of downtown Toronto), Planta on Queen (a vegan restaurant in the Financial District), and Grand Electric (arguably the best tacos in town). Happy Hour is big here. Try Oretta on King Street for great deals on drinks and appetisers. Belfast Love, just down the road, has an extensive list of beers which makes propping up the bar for hours a breeze. Innovative bar snacks are also a thing here, going far beyond the usual olives and nuts.
The good spots are more underground, a bit like London, so it took me a little time to find my (dancing) feet. If you’re into DJs, I’d recommend CODA on Bathurst Street. Purple Disco Machine did an epic set there recently and it’s such a good space – plus it always stays open late! Most places in Toronto close at 2am, when bars are legally obligated to stop serving alcohol. The Gay Village in Church & Wellsley is always a good night out. Nestled in downtown Toronto’s core, there’s no shortage of busy cafes, bars and clubs. Gatsby Speakeasy is a fun choice, with two pianos playing requests throughout the night; expect to hear anything from Elton John to the Spice Girls. I also have a guilty pleasure for Crews & Tangos – a fun drag bar where you can dance off a busy week of work.
To the perfect relaxing Sunday
First, we observe the religion of Brunch. Toronto is bigon Brunch – you’ll often find people will actively queue to get in front of their eggs benedict or tower of pancakes and maple syrup. Then it’s time to walk-off the gluttony. There are plenty of parks and public spaces in Toronto, such as Trinity Bellwoods, Brickworks, which has a great market on Sundays, or our very own Corktown Common. We usually finish up on the sofa watching British TV; it stops me feeling homesick.
If you’re going on a first date
Head to the Distillery District, located in the east of downtown Toronto. Here, cafés, bars and restaurants are housed within heritage buildings of the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery. It’s the largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture in North America. Start with some top-notch-quality Mexican food at El Catrin and then grab a pint (or two) at the Mill Street Brewery. Plus, you’ll need to get a photograph underneath the famous Distillery District heart sculpture, if that’s not too keen for a first date!
And if you want to escape
Niagara Falls is about a two hour drive from Toronto – and worth the trip. There are plenty of reasonably priced tours from downtown, which also stop off at Niagara-on-the-lake, a picturesque, chocolate box town that once served as Canada’s first capital. There are a number of wineries around Ontario, such as Muskoka and Prince Edward County. Toronto is also well connected with two airports: Pearson International and Billy Bishop. Within an hour’s flight you can be in the nearby cities of Montréal and Ottawa.
It’s also worth taking a trip to Toronto’s islands. They’re just a 10-minute boat ride from the city but feel a world away. There are so many things to do on the islands for young and old; relax on the beach, cycle, visit the mini funfair, or check out festivals that take place over the summer. The view of Toronto’s skyline from here is unreal – definitely one for Instagram!
Getting around Toronto: a newbie’s guide
Downtown is pretty well served by the Toronto Transit Commission, more commonly referred to as the TTC, which comprises a subway system, buses and streetcars. The Oyster card equivalent is called Presto – and it is cheap compared to UK cities. It costs around £1.80 to travel anywhere within Toronto and, as long as you’re within 2 hours from your first Presto card tap, you won’t be charged another fare for additional journeys. I also like to walk as much as possible – that way you get to see more of the city.
