A skilfully handcrafted, deep buttoned loveseat This large scale loveseat comfortably fits two adults…perfect for snuggling up to watch movies and box sets! Available from My Furniture, £899.99
Italian designer, ‘Seletti Wears Toiletpaper’ snake-print velvet chair.
Add a splash of art to your home with this colourful snake chair crafted by the brand ‘Seletti Wears Toiletpaper.’
Infuse a home bar area with a touch of retro glamour with this Balmore Bar Stool. This stunning black leather stool features defining antique brass embellishments and a chic, black velvet outer back. Stylish yet subtle.
Designed by Takeshi Sawade for EO, this fun Cow Chair is handcrafted in Denmark from solid oak with walnut feet. The perfect companion to your furniture!
From March onwards, we look forward to crawling out of hibernation in the UK. With so many events starting to bubble away, we list below our best picks for this Spring season.
Goodwood Members Meeting 13th-14th April
If you’re one of the lucky members of Goodwood Road racing Club community, or are looking at joining, you will be able to attend this intimate and thrilling weekend at the glorious Goodwood motor circuit. From speed track demonstrations to fun-packed festivities, and a close-up look at some incredible motors (without the crowds), this really is a great way to kick off the Goodwood calendar of events in 2024!
Visit the Royal Academy of Art for this introductory talk as Frederic Leighton’s iconic painting, Flaming June, comes home to this wonderful venue in London.
Frederic, Lord Leighton was a leading Victorian artist and President of the Royal Academy from 1878 to 1896. Flaming June was part of his final submission to the Summer Exhibition in 1895. The painting is a dazzling example of Leighton’s use of colour, line and composition and it quickly became one of the most recognised and reproduced images in British Art.
Senior Curator of Collections, Dr Hannah Higham, will discuss the importance of the painting, which is on loan from the Museo de Arte de Ponce in Puerto Rico. A wonderful experience for art lovers!
Set in the heart of Manchester, The Urban Garden Show celebrates your own oasis. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this new immersive gardening experience.
Mark your calendars for 18th – 21st April 2024. For further info, click here: https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-urban-show/urban-gardening/urban-gardening
“Step in to King Charles resident garden,”
Ardingly, Sussex, Antique Fair
This March Antiques Fair will provide you with all the Spring fashion, interior and styling flare you need for 2024.
Only one hour from London, local, national and international dealers and buyers regularly attend the largest iacf event in the south of England. Up to 1,700 stalls housing thousands of goods, from fine antique furniture to delicate ceramics, are available here.
It has a reputation as one of the UK antique markets where quality European decorative items can be found.
With a combination of inside and outdoor stands, this mid-week fair is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a little vintage shopping, or hours of professional trading!
“The perfect opportunity to indulge in a little vintage shopping,”
Spring Walks at Highgrove, Tetbury
Step in to King Charles resident garden, crafted by himself, and sweep away the winter cobwebs with an invigorating Spring Walk. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Highgrove’s splendid spring flowers.
Guided by one of the garden’s seasoned experts in a group of up to 26 guests, you’ll uncover expanses of daffodils, flourishing blossoms, and a myriad of other seasonal wonders, while hearing what inspired the King with every aspect of this stunning garden.
We select some of the best festive events we think you’ll enjoy this Christmas
Elf, the Musical
Being shown at Dominion Theatre, London (until 6th January 2024,) ELF is the funny and charming tale of Buddy, who mistakenly crawled into Santa’s bag as a baby and was raised as an elf! This festive production based on the hit movies, is sure to get you in the Christmas mood.
What’s a London Christmas, without Somerset House‘s iconic ice rink? Skate around the grand neoclassical courtyard on this huge, 900-square-metre outdoor rink, with a 40ft Christmas tree plonked in the middle for maximum Insta-potential. This year’s instalment has got a Swiss theme, with hearty, cheesy classics available at onsite restaurant Chalet Suisse. Plus, the venue’s legendary Skate Lates are back, bringing ice-cool DJs to the rink after dark. For more info click here.
Brighten up the chilly winter evenings with a seasonal lights spectacular!
Before boarding, witness the new, big switch-on performance as the darkness of Sheffield Park Station is lit up.
Board for the magical journey and be seated in the luxury of your own compartment with your party. You can even add a special SteamLights picnic box (collected from the Bessemer Arms bar before boarding the train.)
Journey through the Sussex countryside under the cover of darkness, bringing shimmering light and colour as you go. Along the way, enjoy new festive-themed scenes among the trees and clearings and a colourful light show orchestrated in time with music. A multi-sensory feast, and a magical way to experience the Sussex countryside at Christmas.
Enjoy a festive afternoon tea with your loved ones, and as a bonus, enjoy access to Warwick Castle and gardens beautifully decorated for the festive season!
JOALI BEING ANNOUNCES EXCITING PROGRAMMING WORKING WITH GLOBAL ‘MASTER PRACTITIONERS’ AT THEIR LUXURY MALDIVES RESORT
On the pristine isle of Bodufushi in Raa atoll, JOALI BEING – the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives – has announced its programming for guests with focus on immersive wellbeing experiences curated by ‘Master Practitioners’ offering guests unrivalled expertise with personalised and results-driven transformative wellbeing menus to renew, uplift and inspire. Running from now to early 2024, the menu presents a hybrid of healing and restorative practices alongside alternative methods of therapy, such as Holographic Memory Resolution and heart-centred wellbeing methodology, to name a few.
Redefining the meaning of wellbeing getaways, experts will work alongside JOALI BEING’s long-established network of specialists within its unique transformative spaces – including hydrotherapy, movement and sound healing treatments – to nourish guests and give them a new sense of ‘weightlessness’.
In keeping with JOALI BEING’s core methodology, the programme aims to fuse ancient Eastern and Western modern philosophies bringing leaders in alternative wellbeing practices to the destination.
The curated programme for the duration of 2023 in to 2024 includes:
2-29 October – Holographic Memory Resolution® will be led by Dr Rachel Maurice – a former anaesthesiologist – and will be giving guests effective and personalised tools and methods for powerful self-healing. Workshops include Luminous self-healing sessions and self-sabotage coaching.
3-30 November – Sound Healing with Aurelio Hammer | Embark on a resonant journey with sound designer, healer and educator, Aurelio, a pioneer in development and manufacture of innovative musical instruments specialising in sound healing.
23 November – 1 March 2024 – Transformative Healing | Fusing Eastern and Western healing traditions, Javier de Prado is a master of craniosacral and Watsu therapy, visceral manipulation and Osteothai. The massage techniques aim to transform from within and will be running.
4 December – 4 January 2024 – Elevate Your Life will see expert Sandro Thiara Mota bring his pioneering Mota Method to JOALI BEING. Using a combination of breathwork and high-performance fitness training offerings also include water nervous system resetting (Janzu), energy activation and breathwork and ice bath, water rebirthing plus stress management and the option to book a separate five-day retreat with Mato.
At the heart of JOALI BEING is modern science and long-honoured traditions aimed at guiding guests on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. A dedicated expert team of naturopaths, therapists and movement experts aims to work with guests every step of the way to help set intentions, nurture and co-create moments of ‘wonder and transcendence.’
Boasting 33 design-led beach villas and 35 over-water villas surrounded by crystalline lagoons amidst glorious tropical nature, offering thirteen different villa categories with two, three and four-bed room options. Designed to seamlessly blend with its natural surroundings using organic materials with structures reminiscent of temples, guests are greeted by artwork by Sculptor Seçkin Pirim – an organic shape representing the dissolution of the ego. Architects working in unison with design studios Autoban and Atolye4N – which also led the design concept of sister destination, JOALI Maldives – acted together to preserve the local landscape and nature using Biophilic principles with the goal to achieve harmony by eliminating negative vibrations and enhancing the energy flow of the island; whilst ensuring the forest and wildlife remained untouched.
Joali Being has also just announced its exclusive partnership with Dr B Sturm in the Maldives. She’s a regular at the resort and has created a bespoke menu for guests which is now open for bookings.
With 13 categories to choose from, guests can opt for one-, two-, three- or four-bedroom villas and residences. JOALI BEING features unique transformational spaces that allow guests to immerse in elemental therapies and healing experiences. Nature is at the centre of life at JOALI BEING, with the island being completely committed to nature immersive and responsible travel – the pathway to true “weightlessness”.
For the love of dogs, don’t miss the ultimate fun & sophisticated doggy day out this May
Back with a bark following the inaugural event in 2022, Goodwoof offers a superb day out for every dog-lover, including the Princess of Wales brother James Middleton (pictured right who also attended last years’ event.). With world-class competitions, trials, demonstrations and workshops, there is something for everyone… including four-legged friends!
James Middleton says of this upcoming event, “I can’t wait to return to Goodwoof. Last year’s event was spectacular, with so much to see and get involved with, whether you came with or without a dog. For me, Charlie Mackesy’s infamous ‘The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse’ book highlights the unique bond between humans and animals, which aligns perfectly with this year’s charity Pets As Therapy, who work to promote the important role dogs and animals can play in our lives. It’s wonderful that Charlie will be adding his work to a Babboe bike and I can’t wait to showcase the bike at Goodwoof together.” Mackesy will appear on the Sunday to headline the Literary Corner where he’ll share his journey of bringing his beloved characters to life.
Taking place on the weekend of 20th & 21st May, this year celebrates being the ‘Year of The Poodle’ with a Poodle parade taking place on the Saturday (20th) morning. Expect spectacular hairstyles and well heeled doggies showing off their curls and tippy-toes!
What a sight that will be; a group of fabulous poodles with their razor-sharp intelligence and model good looks, sauntering past the giant orange Goodwoof hounds, ready to enjoy the ultimate dog’s day out with their family.
“I’m very much looking forward to seeing a whole pack of poodles heralding the opening of another fun-filled weekend as we celebrate our love of dogs at Goodwoof this May.“
The Duke of Richmond
Poodles are held in high esteem on the Goodwood estate. The Duke of Richmond has very fond memories of one particular very special poodle.
He says, “When I was a child, my grandmother, Betty, had a huge black standard poodle called Bruno. Memories of playing with him remind me of my earliest days at Goodwood, so I’ve always had a soft spot for the breed. I’m very much looking forward to seeing a whole pack of poodles heralding the opening of another fun-filled weekend as we celebrate our love of dogs at Goodwoof this May.”
Highlights of this years’ event include: Barkitechture with kennels designed by some of the world’s most influential architects, Chien Charmant: a concours d’elegance celebrating the unique bond between dog and owner, and Literary Corner: with appearances from famous faces.
To purchase your tickets, and for further information about this wonderful event, please click here.
Taking an action packed holiday, doesn’t mean you have to cut back on luxury. On the contrary, there are lots of popular choices that involve a different kind of holiday, but still with high end service and comfort.
We take a look at a few popular destination trips for 2023.
Hiking In Japan
Away from the crowds, Audley’s specialists recommend … tackling the Pilgrimage route Kumano Kodo, in Honshu. Despite its UNESCO World Heritage status, the route is very rural and takes clients away from crowds. The route follows in the footsteps of people from all levels of Japanese society who, for more than 1,000 years, have walked to the three Grand Shrines on the Kii Peninsula.
The Kumano Kodo trail in Honshu
The Nakahechi route from Takijiri-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand Shrines, was typically used by the Imperial Family and is lined with Oji shrines where pilgrims can make offerings and perform purification rituals. The trail covers 24 miles over two days and is clearly marked so clients don’t need a guide. The route takes hikers through thick forest, with occasional hamlets of houses where the owners welcome hikers for tea.
Audley Travel offer these luxury trips. A 15-day tailor-made trip to Japan includes time in Honshu and Tokyo and costs from £5,995 per person (based on two travelling). The price includes flights, transfers, accommodation, excursions and travel by bullet train.
The Azores might be known as a superb dive destination, but these Portuguese islands are still flying under the radar as a luxury holiday destination. And a week-long itinerary will show you, they shouldn’t be, because this is the perfect place for a European island adventure.
Diving With Manta Ray in The Azores
Explore diving in the Azores. The varied seafloor topography creates ideal conditions for a rich, abundant and diverse underwater fauna that spans tiny invertebrates to huge pelagic fish and marine mammals. Princess Alice Bank, 50 nautical miles (93km) from Pico Island is one of the Azores’ world class dive sites.
Original Travel specialists are offering packages from £ 2,845 to £ 3,590 per person for 8 days, depending on season of travel, accommodation and activities.
Exploring the cloud forest in Costa Rica
Away from the crowds, and for a more serene holiday alternative, visiting the cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota to look for the quetzal is a must destination. This is a very peaceful, fairly isolated place and the focus of a visit is on the beautiful environment and birdlife. The lodges are simple but comfortable and offer expert birdwatching guides with quetzals often spotted feasting on the local fruit trees. Explorers can also take longer hikes in search of over 200 species of highland birds, hike to the Savegre waterfall, explore on horseback or try trout fishing.
A hanging bridge in the costa rican jungle
Audley Travel are offering a 14-day tailor-made Birdwatching in Costa Rica itinerary, from £5,555 per person (based on two travelling) which includes flights, transfers, accommodation and excursions. Tel: 01993 838 665 / www.audleytravel.com/costa-rica.
Spectacular birdwatching in Costa Rica
Husky Safaris in the Arctic
Whether you be a snow lover, dog lover or simply love a holiday in the snow with a difference…this expedition trip may tick the box for your requirements of a fun holiday with a difference.
There are few more memorable ways to travel in the Arctic than by dog sled! We simply implore anyone who is able to go on a dog sledding adventure, to do so. The experience of crossing a wild and remote landscape in Norway, Finland and Sweden is quite remarkable.
Husky sled dogs ready to go in the Arctic mountain wilderness
This holiday can offer such a strong sense of connection to the environment as your team of eager dogs, delighting in their work, pull you across beautiful frozen landscapes. Though often known as husky sledding, it is actually a variety of breeds that take part in dog sledding who are all trained by local expert mushers.
Artisan travel experts offer a range of Arctic safaris. You could tailor your holiday in Ranua or Torassieppi, choosing the husky safari that fits in with your winter break. Or you could choose an itinerary completely focused only on the dog sledding. Dog sledding in Finland, in particular, is extremely popular. Learn more about dog sledding tours in Finnish Lapland here.
Artisan travel can arrange packages from £2145 per person to Finland for 7 nights, this includes accommodation.
With the season of ‘sparkle’ officially upon us, it’s time to check your Christmas wardrobe. Whether it be a staff party or a family get-together, adding a touch of cheer to your outfit will help you jingle all the way.
We select a few pieces that we think every Christmas wardrobe deserves.
Reiss Red Velvet Suit
This single breasted red velvet jacket with matching high rise flared trousers, makes the perfect combination show-stopper for an Christmas gathering.
A beautifully designed scoop neck top, with detailed popper fastened shoulder straps, which is notched in at the chest to flatter the silhouette. This designer top by Courreges is partially lined and has a zip fastening back.
Introducing the next must-have accessory for your parties…the gorgeous Zoe clutch is a three-in-one bag- wear it cross-body, on your shoulder, or by hand. Its adjustable shoulder strap is adorned with the Ba&sh signature diamond design. We love the bohemian style look of its suede fringe. A versatile and elegant bag.
There’s no better time to snap those heels together and don your most pretty party shoes…and we think these Jimmy Choo embellished red velvet mules will make the perfect dance party this season!
Renowned for their exceptional design, this tuxedo-inspired double-breasted bodice dress by Ralph Lauren features a sequinned georgette skirt embellished with a crest-engraved buckled belt at the waist, for a sophisticated look and feel.
The perfect winter coat that will make you feel like a Star wherever you go. Loose fit, trumpet sleeved, star-printed and lined, this coat wants to join the party!
The Christmas season gives us the perfect excuse to indulge in a little bit of luxury and glamour, and that includes your festive home decor. Metallic shades of gold, copper and brass, instantly infuse your space with warmth and character. We’ve gathered some of our favourite products below to help you embrace an opulent style in the lead up to the big day.
Copper Mistletoe Light Up Christmas Wreath
Add a touch of Christmas sparkle to your home this year with our copper mistletoe light up Christmas wreath. The LED lights woven into this festive wreath shine with a light that brilliantly showcases the copper and gold glittering berries of this mistletoe design.
Made with beautifully thick paper stock, and finished with ribbon, these pretty six crackers come in a stylish presentation box so can also make the perfect gift for hosts over the Christmas period.
Gifts include the following: wooden honey drizzler, nutmeg grater, wooden plant labels, a metal slinky, a wooden yoyo, faux leather keyring, wooden comb, washi tape, cookie cutter and mini strawberry jam by Wilkin & Sons.
Also inside is a silver paper crown, a joke and the snap.
Add elegance and glamour to your home this season with this Gold Metal Mistletoe Bunch. This luxe take on the real thing, will make a stylish welcome in your hallway! Delicate golden leaves are complemented by pearl-like berries for an opulent look. The perfect piece to brighten up those dark days of winter.
Nothing is more festive than a reindeer! And two holding a trio of beautiful glass votives is even better. Featuring two gracefully regal reindeers supporting three glass votives with a dazzling metallic silver distressed finish, this dainty candle holder is sure to light up any home beautifully this Christmas.
This Christmas Angel cushion, in a luxurious cream velvet, is adorned with a beautiful Guardian Angel in cream felt, appliquéd and hand-embroidered with fine chain-stitch in antique gold thread highlighting the detail of the cherubic face and wings. The angel is surrounded by stars, some of them embellished with sparkling gold sequins, and the edges of the cushion are finished with gold blanket stitch. The perfect guardian angel to watch over you this Christmas!
Do you feel in need of a warm holiday this winter with a difference, as oppose to being in a main tourist area? Well, we may have just the trip for you below. Here, we select some of the best destinations for a less obvious autumn and winter getaway.
Winter on the coast of Sardinia tends to be very mild, with average day temperatures of around 12°C, which usually drop at night to around 5 to 8°C. During the month of December, on sunny days, often peaking as high as 22°, making it a popular destination for this time of the year.
Costa Smeralda in picturesque Sardinia on the corner of Northern Gallura is home to the world-renowned and exclusive Pevero Golf Club. As one of the world’s most “picturesque golf courses”, the 6,107 meters long 18-hole course is surrounded by otherworldly wind sculpted granite rocks and natural lakes with sweeping fairways throughout.
Nestled in between the glittering emerald waters of the bay of Cala di Volpe and the Gulf of Pevero—in the very heart of the fabulous Costa Smeralda.
The Mistral—the northwest wind of the region as it’s been nicknamed by locals—increases the challenge of each shot, creating a thrilling and unrepeatable golfing experience. As the weather cools and the crowds lessen, autumn and winter makes it an ideal time to go for golf lovers and beginners, looking to hone their skills. Pevero Golf Club offers a full calendar of golf tournaments and a program of activities organised by the Pevero Golf Academy including dedicated courses for adults, but also for teenagers and children, who want to get closer, even for the first time, to the world of golf. All under the aegis of the Pevero Golf Academy led by Alessio Cocchi, Federal Master and Head Pro of the Club.
The golf course features an expert putting and pitching green, a bunker, chipping green and a driving range with 20 outdoor and five indoor spaces perfect for instruction and practice. A golf pro is available for private lessons. Worth noting, the club is also open to non-guests and rates start from €100 for 18 holes in the low season.
Pevero Golf Club
Cervo Hotel , part of The Luxury Collection, remains open during the low season for guests staying for a golfing break. The emphasis there is on privacy and seclusion with two private beaches and a clubhouse with an infinity pool. Rates start from £240 per night
Two new properties in Mexico as featured by Audley travel, make an interesting trip away from the main tourist areas.
The remote El Cuyo, and the eight-kilometre-long Isla Mujeres, near Cancun. Both locations are the ideal spots for relaxation at the end of a tailor-made itinerary exploring Mexico’s Mayan ruins, highland towns and cities as well as seeing the wildlife and sampling the cuisine.
LunArena Boutique Beach Hotel is far from mass tourism in the picturesque fishing village of El Cuyo and is nestled between ocean, lagoon and jungle. The property owners have carefully designed its four rooms to take advantage of its unique positioning giving clients sunset and sunrise views over the water. The onsite restaurant offers a fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine, prepared with ingredients sourced from local producers.
A 10-day trip to Mexico including five nights at LunArena costs from £4,950 per person (based on two sharing). The price includes flights, transfers, accommodation and excursions. 01993 838670 www.audleytravel.com/mexico
An all-suites luxury property in Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte, Casa del Jaguar has been redesigned and opened in January. It is an excellent choice for clients wanting to relax in comfort and privacy on the white sands. Accommodation is in beachfront Junior Suites for two, Family Suites for two adults and two children and Master Suites for two with a terrace or balcony.
Clients can eat at the beachfront Oceanus Beach Club and Restaurant, opt for healthy choices at the Green Demon juice bar and wraps palapa and enjoy a special celebration at the adults-only Guru Beach Club and Restaurant in a secluded north beach location.
The owners are planning to open a new spa at the property in the autumn with six treatment rooms, an indoor jacuzzi and anti-aging specialised treatments.
A 10-day trip to Mexico including five nights at Casa del Jaguar costs from £6,600 per person (based on two sharing). The price includes flights, transfers, accommodation and excursions. For bookings, contact: 01993 838 670 www.audleytravel.com/mexico
the debut of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, marking a significant moment for the iconic hospitality brand as it makes its foray into the luxury yachting space. Envisioned to perfectly blend the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton resorts with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, Evrima, the first of three custom-built yachts from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, set sail on October 15, 2022, with a voyage from Barcelona, Spain, to Nice, Italy, delivering highly tailored getaways for travellers seeking to wholly immerse themselves in the culture of each destination.
Unveiling unique itineraries and immersive experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection carves out an exclusive space within the industry while exemplifying the brand’s forward-thinking approach to luxury hospitality.
Stopping at both intimate and signature ports of call, most voyages range from 7 to 10 nights, with no two journeys alike so that guests can combine itineraries without repeating a destination. Depending on the season, Evrima visits the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Destinations along the way range from Spain’s Balearic Islands and coveted havens along the French Riviera, to the aquamarine shores of Aruba and the tropical coastlines of Costa Rica. The intimate size of Evrima also allows unique access into some of the most sought-after ports of call, delivering yacht-style cruising in destinations such as Mykonos, Saint-Tropez, and St. Barts.
The Evrima- part of The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection
The yachts of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter. For more information, please visit www.RitzCarltonYachtCollection.com. For reservations, contact a Reservations Services Agent at +1 833 999-7292 (U.S. & Canada) or contact your travel professional. Voyage prices vary based upon the itinerary and season. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is also a part of Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s travel program.
Goodwood Revival was as popular as ever, proving that this event remains one of the highlights of society diaries and motor lovers alike.
We share some of our favourite highlights from this years Rolex sponsored event.
The Goodwood Revival was a vision of British charm and automotive elegance this year, with as many as 150,000 motoring and vintage enthusiasts gathering from all corners of the globe to immerse themselves in the event’s unique style and to experience the excitement of wheel-to-wheel racing. Rolex shares the Goodwood Revival’s quest to preserve the past and its most treasured items for future generations, (having supported the Rolex Drivers’ Club and the event as the Official Timepiece since 2004.)
Sir Jackie Stewart, a Rolex Testimonee for more than half a century and three-time FIA Formula 1 ®Drivers’ World Champion, says: “Every year, the Revival raises its game and attracts more people who come to see these cherished cars. Rolex is very much part of the event; the quality, the attention to detail and integrity perfectly aligns with the Swiss watchmaker. Goodwood always brings back fond memories for me, having first visited when I was just 14 years old, and since then I have spent many years at this historic track, where I am in fact still the lap record holder from 1966.”
A Tribute at Goodwood Revival to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Reflecting on the poignancy of this year’s event, Sir Jackie continues: “This year, the Revival coincided with the very sad passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I was extremely privileged to be a friend of Her Majesty and attended her funeral at Windsor Castle. I think that Goodwood recognized Her Majesty’s passing in a very dignified fashion.”
Fondly known as ‘the heart of the Revival’, the Rolex Drivers’ Club welcomes drivers from an array of motor sport disciplines and, over the course of the three-day event, Rolex’s motor sport Testimonees, Sir Jackie Stewart, Tom Kristensen and Jenson Button, all sought sanctuary in its familiar surroundings. Having raced in both the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy and the RAC TT Celebration, the 2009 FIA Formula 1® Drivers’ World Champion, Jenson Button says: “The Goodwood Revival is one of my favourite weekends of the year; it has become very international but it remains so quintessentially British. Racing cars from the 1940s, 50s and 60s, and dressing up from that era is so much fun. I also get to race against some of the best drivers in the world and catch up with friends – everyone is here to celebrate motor sport, it’s incredible.”
Rolex’s close ties with motor sport date back to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s World Land Speed Record successes in the 1930s, when he became the first driver to break the 300 mph barrier (483 km/h) at the wheel of his car, Bluebird. Since then, Rolex’s presence in motor racing has grown steadily, its support extending to revered endurance events such as the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship. In 2013, Rolex became associated with Formula 1 ®, the pinnacle of motor sport, having supported Rolex Testimonee Sir Jackie Stewart since 1968. The three-time FIA Formula 1 ®Drivers’ World Champion has been joined by fellow high achievers from the world of motor sport: Tom Kristensen, the record nine-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner; Mark Webber, the multiple Formula 1 ®race winner and 2015 FIA World Endurance Champion and, most recently, Jenson Button, 2009 FIA Formula 1 ®Drivers’ World Champion. The brand also has a global appreciation for classic automotive events steeped in elegance, beauty and tradition, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and the Goodwood Revival.
A scenic staycation that includes clear turquoise waters, rugged cliffs and not too many crowds sounds appealing to most, and that’s exactly what Verity Craig discovered at the picturesque Babbacombe district on The South Devon Coast
There’s something totally different about a British holiday in comparison to one abroad. I personally don’t think you should compare the two, as one is guaranteed to often be hot, a different culture and the excitement of a plane journey. While the other, here in the UK, can be a salty-covered adventure with views and waters arguably more stunning than you will see anywhere else in the world. And as for the quirky traditions that one has to indulge in on a staycation trip (the fish’n’chips, maybe the odd canoe, tram or boat trip), for me the UK wins hands down as a family holiday.
The Cary Arms and Spa, Babbacombe Beach, Devon
For us as a family (including our dog), our trip was to The Cary Arms on Babbacombe Beach, near Torquay, on the Southern District of Devon.
After a rather breathtaking drive through the scenic roads and lanes of Devon, you enter the steep entrance road that takes you down to The Cary Arms Hotel and Spa; an independently-owned hotel spearheaded by hotel entrepreneur and philanthropist, Peter De Savary.
“There’s not many holidays where you can be enjoying your breakfast and dinner outside on a terrace overlooking the sea, only to be greeted by a seal bobbing his head up looking at you!”
Arranged and terraced upon the cliffs overlooking the clear waters and beach below, The Cary Arms has a selection of cottages, beach huts or the main house for accommodation. Being secluded away from the bustle of the main town, tucked away in its own bay and facing the old harbour arm, makes it a quiet little haven where you feel you have left the rest of the world behind.
The old harbour arm in front of The Cary Arms Hotel and Spa
Although The Cary Arms has kept its character and history in tact, it also has the comfort and service of a five star hotel; the original cottages have been restored but have kept their character, while luxury amenities are on hand. Meanwhile, the Beach Hut suites take on more of a New-England style, situated sea-facing, and are incidentally next to the modern fully-equipped spa. I was fortunate enough to enjoy a relaxing massage there with wonderful masseuse, Chloe. There’s something very calming during a massage knowing you are beside the sea. Or maybe it’s just the karma of the area that The Cary Arms is situated!
“…a quiet little haven where you feel you have left the rest of the world behind,”
The funicular railway, Babbacombe
A must-do experience when visiting Babbacombe, is to take the funicular railway to the beach. Also known as the Babbacombe Cliff Lift, it’s a fun experience, with a great view, to travel to and from the beach (it runs every half hour, each day from 9.30am till 5.30pm.)
We were very lucky to have a wonderful guided tour by local man, Graham, who’s knowledge of the area, and its’ history, brought a fascinating angle to our stay. He even added in a treasure hunt for my daughter to do along the way, which included looking for the local pet…’Sammy the Seal,’ who I am happy to report, we saw in the sea several times. There’s not many holidays where you can be enjoying your breakfast and dinner outside on a terrace overlooking the sea, only to be greeted by a seal bobbing his head up looking at you!
Swans flying past and an old Brixham Trawler seen at Babbacombe
There’s so much interesting history to this little area in Devon, that not many people have heard of; from Queen Victoria being a regular visitor of this bay (since her former nanny lived there,) to Agatha Christie taking inspiration when creating Miss Marple’s fictional village, St Mary Mead.
There’s also lots to do and see in the area for those that like an action-packed holiday. We enjoyed canoeing to look at the caves and surrounding headlands. And there’s a lovely walk above The Cary Arms that is part of the South West Coast Path; stunning views can be captured at St Marychurch!
The view from Stmarychurch, Torbay
The Cary Arms Hotel & Spa Luxury Seaview Rooms start from £275 per night B&B (up to £455 high season) and from £335 B&B for a Beach Hut. Tel: 01803 327 110.
But if simply unwinding, not doing much and enjoying the comfort of a hotel with stunning views and service to match is all you require, then also look no further than The Cary Arms. The luxury comforts are abound, and you can enjoy an exquisite food menu (and a very impressive wine list!) Most evenings, we sat outside enjoying a family game of Uno after dinner on the terrace, followed by toasting marshmallow’s under provided cosy blankets, while watching people fishing off the harbour arm…and looking out for our new friend ‘Sammy.’
