Angela Rippon leads Oxford’s beloved Macmillan carol concert at Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford
Oxford’s iconic “Follow the Stars” Christmas Carol Concert returns for its 28th year on Friday 5th December 2025 at 8pm, transforming Christ Church Cathedral into a beacon of festive joy and generosity in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.
For nearly three decades, this much-loved event has marked the start of Christmas in Oxford, blending world-class performances, celebrity readings, and seasonal spirit — all in support of people living with cancer.
This year’s concert welcomes Angela Rippon CBE as one of the evening’s celebrity readers. A familiar and much-loved figure in British broadcasting, Angela has been a household name for almost 60 years, from BBC News to Rip-Off Britain and Strictly Come Dancing. In 2025 she launched her Let’s Dance campaign, celebrating the power of dance for wellbeing — a fitting message of hope and vitality.
Acclaimed lyric soprano Sophie Bevan MBE will perform, bringing her exquisite voice to the Cathedral’s soaring acoustics. A frequent soloist at the Royal Opera House and Garsington, Sophie’s involvement carries personal meaning — as someone who has experienced cancer treatment herself, her performance is a moving tribute to Macmillan’s compassionate work.
Also appearing is Abigail Thaw, beloved for her role in Endeavour and daughter of the late Inspector Morse star John Thaw, adding her talent to an evening of warmth, reflection and festive spirit.
Almost 3.5 million people in the UK are currently living with cancer, and Macmillan Cancer Support continues to be there for them and their families every step of the way. As His Majesty King Charles III recently reflected, “These moments of kinship create what I might call a ‘community of care’ — one that sustains patients through the most difficult of times.”
Funds raised through Follow the Stars directly support Macmillan’s vital work — from specialist nurses and financial advice to emotional and practical help when it’s needed most.
Joy is the fuel that fires up the festive sparkle, and nothing stokes the joy like a thoughtful, handmade gift
“Buying handmade is personal in so many ways,” says Wiltshire upholsterer and lampshade maker Aimée Alice Payton. “You take time to select something perfect from a range of unique gifts which makes your loved ones feel extra special. And the makers feel pride in the fact that you value their artistry.” Find out more & shop at aimeealicepayton.co.uk
Aimée is also among the stars at the Modern Makers Collective, 10am-4pm on 29th & 30th November in Yattendon, RG18 0UE. Famous for its Christmas trees (and pubs!), the beautiful village is the perfect setting for mindful shopping, coffee, food, and more. Browse gifts from an array of star makers including paper artist Kate Hipkiss & local jewellers Charlotte Berry and Kate Wilkinson; modernmakerscollective.co.uk
If you thought fudge couldn’t get any more delicious then you haven’t tried the goodies from award-winning family-run Kintbury business Marsdens Fudge. The Willy Wonka-esque fudge gifts, handmade following Alex’s grandmother’s recipes, include chilli, Baileys and even a Ramsbury Gold edition (pictured). Shop for these and more at marsdensfudge.co.uk and also at the Spirit of the Vale Christmas Fair, 10am-7pm on Wednesday, 19th November, in Sparsholt, OX12 9PJ, which supports local charities.
Milly Broughton created BRAVE Chutney in her kitchen in Manningford Bohune back in 2021 during the pandemic after she was furloughed from her French teaching job. She had always made chutneys, jams and jellies for her family but the penny dropped when she realised there was a gap in the market for great-tasting chutney in gorgeous packaging. Her first product, Hot Pear & Ginger Chutney, was inspired by a recipe handed down from Milly’s mum. Find @bravechutney on Facebook & Instagram Between 14th November & 21st December, Blenheim Palace transforms into a dazzling festive village. Shop for goodies from 50+ local makers, including The Ramsden Weaver. Don’t miss the illuminated trail and openair ice rink; blenheimpalace.com
Julia’s House Christmas Artisan Market at Braeside Education Centre in Devizes, 11am-4pm on Sunday, 16th November, celebrates local artists and makers. Entry is free, and visitors can expect a sleighful of delights including wreath-making workshops, children’s Christmas craft, a pop-up café serving delicious homemade treats, mulled wine and lots more. Find more info and book wreath-making at juliashouse.org/market
Hungerford will light up for Christmas from 4pm on 23rd November, with entertainment and festive cheer. Cheers also to a Christmas wine tasting evening on 20th November thanks tothe Naked grape (thenakedgrape.co.uk)and Victorian Hungerford Extravaganza on 12th December with steam engines, horse carriage rides, live music, Santa’s grotto, lantern parade, street food and artisan stalls; hungerfordextravaganza.com. While you’re in Hungerford, Christian Alba’s Traditional Butchers in the High Street offers freerange pork, beef, lamb and chicken, handmade sausages, a deli selection, and a range of glutenfree products. And Cobbs Farm Shop will offer festive menus & tastings from 24th November to 21st December; cobbsfarmshops.co.uk. Also check out the honey and candles at potternehoney.co.uk
Help Santa find his missing reindeer at Didcot Railway Centre’s 21-acre site, culminating in a visit to meet the big man himself in the grotto (selected dates in December). And you can join Charles Dickens’ great great grandson Gerald for his unique telling of A Christmas Carol on 16th & 17th December. Booking essential; please visit didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
The Christmas Carol Concert In Support of Hope and Homes for Children will take place in the beautiful candlelit chapel at Marlborough College at 4pm on Saturday, 13th December, thanks to Haine and Smith Opticians, Indigo Antiques and Berkshire Trout. See Spotlight for more info and visit hopeandhomes.org
Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum near Tetbury features an illuminated trail from 28th November, and see our article for info about the Christmas lights trail at Stourhead (with a family ticket up for grabs); mychristmastrails.co.uk/events/christmas-at-stourhead
Handmade & heartfelt gifts are the best choice to spread the love. Here’s our guide including markets, fairs & fun, offering hidden gems & lots of sparkle
Joy is the fuel that fires up the festive sparkle, and nothing stokes the joy like a thoughtful, handmade gift.
“It’s so lovely to use things for years and years that have been made by the hand of an individual maker,” says potter Harriet Coleridge. “Any of us who enjoy using and looking at handmade objects must buy from the artisans or they’ll stop making!” Ewelme Pottery will open 10am-1pm on Wednesdays between now and Christmas (except 12th November); visitors welcome but please get in touch at harrietcoleridge.co.uk
Also find Harriet at the Modern Makers Collective fair, 10am-4pm on 29th & 30th November in Yattendon, RG18 0UE. Famous for its Christmas trees (and pubs!), the beautiful village is the perfect setting for mindful shopping, food, and more. Browse gifts from star makers including textile artist & straw worker Penny Maltby, paper artist Kate Hipkiss & jewellers Charlotte Berry and Kate Wilkinson. modernmakerscollective.co.uk
Between 14th November & 21st December, Blenheim Palace transforms into a dazzling festive village. Shop for goodies from 50+ local makers, including The Ramsden Weaver and don’t miss the illuminated trail and open air ice rink! blenheimpalace.com
The Oxford Etsy Christmas Market on Sunday, 16th November, at the University’s Examination schools, OX1 4BG (artweeks.org/christmas) will star lots more local legends, as will Oxford Indie Book Fair, at the same location on Sunday 23rd; oxfordindiebookfair.co.uk And three cheers for Indie Oxford Christmas Market, back for its fourth highlight at Tap Social’s Taproom in Botley, 11am-5pm on Saturday, 29th November, with pizza and kids’ fun. “It’s all about celebrating Oxfordshire’s vibrant independent businesses, a chance for the community to shop small and make a positive impact,” says Rosie Jacobs. independentoxford.com
Our prettiest local towns take on a wondrous sparkle about now, including Henley with the Christmas market and lights turn-on 29th November, plus Living Advent, a Grinch visit, decorated tree and retailers offering lots of cheer, fundraising for great local causes. Also supporting local charities, the Spirit of the Vale Christmas Fair, 10am-7pm on Wednesday, 19th November at the Barn in Sparsholt, OX12 9PJ. Shop for funky fudge from Marsdens Fudge, award-winning Spanish balsamic and savoury jams from Oxford’s Fino Olive Oil & much more.
South Oxfordshire Christmas Fair at The Oxfordshire Golf Club near Thame on 18th November features 60 stalls including Pied Beauty Flower Farm, Memara Jewellery, goodies from Jacobs Field Lavender and lots more, helping great local charities Style Acre & SeeSaw. south oxfordshire christmasfair.com
Dame Mary Berry DBE is the special guest at Maggie’s Christmas Artisan Market in Wallingford, in aid of Maggie’s Cancer Centre, with an exclusive preview evening on Thursday, 27th November, and the market with star talks, original gifts and more, 10am–4.30pm on Friday 28th; maggies.org. Find more festive shopping and cheer on Saturday, 29th November, at the School of St Helen and St Katharine in Abingdon and The Earth Trust market in Little Wittenham, OX14 4QZ, on 5th & 6th December. Between 14th November & 21st December, Blenheim Palace becomes a dazzling festive village. Shop for goodies from 50+ makers, including The Ramsden Weaver. And enjoy the illuminated trail & openair ice rink; blenheimpalace.com
Help Santa find his missing reindeer at Didcot Railway Centre’s 21-acre site, culminating in a visit to meet the big man himself in the grotto (selected dates in December). And you can join Charles Dickens’ great great grandson Gerald for his unique telling of A Christmas Carol on 16th & 17th December. Booking essential; please visit didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
Copas Farm Shop near Cookham offers award-winning turkeys (whole or in boxes for pick-up or delivery); copasfarmshop.co.uk And, if you’d rather not cook, OX’s Courtyard Marriott in Milton, offers great hospitality, especially catering for Christmas Day lunch and New Year’s Eve; theoxen.co.uk
“Handmade gifts are so much more personal than mass-made items,” says glass artist Jan Fennelly “Supporting local artists enables them to continue making beautiful things. I remember the fun we had when I was a child decorating our Christmas tree. I still have some of these decorations: bringing them out makes me smile every year. I hope some of my decorations may last long enough to be passed down.” Find Jan & more at the Art & Craft Fair in Faringdon Corn Exchange 1-5pm on Saturday, 29th November; faringdonartsociety.co.uk
“Unlike mass-produced items, handcrafted gifts carry a soulful touch,” says bellows maker Anne Mills (firesidebellows.com). Shop for these, Cloelea Jewellery and more at Cogges Christmas Market, 10am-4pm on 29th & 30th November; cogges.org.uk and also visit the Artweeks events & fairs, 13th-23rd December; artweeks.org
Find more festive shopping on Saturday, 29th November, at the School of St Helen & St Katharine in Abingdon and The Earth Trust market in Little Wittenham, OX14 4QZ, on 5th & 6th December; earthtrust.org.uk
Before you hang up your stockings and baste the turkey, there’s more festive fun to enjoy than you can shake your tinsel at!
Festive fun is firmly on the menu for all this month and next, so stop wrapping and start carolling!
BERKSHIRE
Christmas at Basildon
Experience the enchantment of the season at Basildon Park through the magic of ballet. From Nov 15th to Jan 4th, join a festive celebration where rooms of the mansion are beautifully decorated. Experience a twirling world of dance with sumptuously adorned trees, twinkling lights and beautiful decorations inspired by the stories, characters and colours of famous ballets. Outside, little ones can run off energy on a pushchair-friendly trail – spot, twirl, and explore a world of Christmas ballet magic!
National Trust Images / Nadia MacKenzie
Grab your programme, ticket and opera glasses for a warm nostalgic Christmas inspired by the joy of Victorian theatre at Greys Court. From Nov 22nd to Jan 4th, immerse yourself in a wonderland of theatrical decorations, all inspired by the characters of Henry Irving, Lady Brunner’s grandfather, and the magic of Victorian theatre. Beautifully adorned trees, garlands, and twinkling fairy lights welcome you. The garden decorations, wreaths, twinkling lights and oversized baubles add gorgeous sparkle. Little ones can run off energy on a Christmas trail in the gardens.
Santa and his elves are stopping at Beale Park where as well as meeting the man in the red suit for story time, photos, a present and Christmas feast you can join in the elf stocking trail and feed a reindeer. Visit bealepark.org.uk/Christmas for more information & to book.
Celebrate Christmas at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort with festive fun for the whole family! Packed with magical Christmas activities for kids and memorable Christmas events like meeting Father Christmas, new festive holiday shows, and themed rides. Nov 22nd – Jan 3rd.
Follow a path through woodland awash with colour as sparkles of fireflies, luminous beacons and dancing fairies blaze the way, the lake alive with flood-lit fountains and glimmering reflections at Windsor Great Park Illuminated, Nov 14th – Jan 3rd. Enjoy mouth-wateringly good food, mulled wine and hot chocolate or toast marshmallows at one of the fire pits. Top your evening off with a traditional fairground ride on the carousel or big wheel or slide down the helter skelter, fun for kids of all ages. Book at windsorilluminated.com/tickets
Make festive memories at Reading Winter Wonderland at Hills Meadow from Nov 9th – Jan 5th. Whether it’s the Huge North Pole Giant Observation Wheel or the Penguin Bumper Cars, with more than a dozen rides and attractions to choose from you’ll make festive memories this Christmas and all with an amazing array of festive food too. Santa and his Elf make it a magical experience for children with a fantastic gift to take home. You can take your own pictures of your experience with Santa too. The ice rink is even larger this year with 560sqm of skating surface all under a huge 900sqm clear dome to protect you from the elements. To book ice skating, Santa’s grotto, rides or to hire an Alpine lodge please visit readingwinterwonderland.co.uk/booking
Christmas in Reading officially gets under way on Nov 15th with the switching on of the town centre’s lights – a display of an amazing 800,000 LED lights. Seasonal food and music will help get everyone in the mood.
Experience Reading’s newest winter light trail and immerse yourself in a magical light trail around the grounds of Forbury Gardens & Abbey Ruins this winter. The light installations will transform the park & ruins into a glowing seasonal display from Nov 15th – Jan 4th. Visit the food and drink court for sweet treats, marshmallows to toast and more. Book at illuminatereading.co.uk/tickets
Help Santa find his missing reindeer at Didcot Railway Centre. Explore the 21-acre site to find each of Santa’s lost reindeer, culminating in a visit to the grotto to meet Santa. Selected dates in December. Join Charles Dickens’ great great grandson Gerald for his unique telling of A Christmas Carol on Dec 16th & 17th. Booking essential, visit didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
Copas Farm Shop near Cookham offers award-winning turkeys (whole or in boxes for pick-up or delivery); copasfarmshop.co.uk
Markets
Broad Street’s Christmas Market is back from Nov 15th, go gift hunting in the heart of the town centre, and bask in holiday spirit throughout the entire festive season.
The Reading Town Hall Christmas Market is back and bigger than ever on Nov 30th. With stalls spread across the Soane Space, the Museum, and The Concert Hall foyer, this fully accessible market is packed with festive finds – a great way to support local makers.
Sindlesham Court’s Christmas Market has over 50 stalls offering a huge selection of festive goods on Dec 1st, browse for gifts, treats, and seasonal surprises. There’s a café on-site to keep you fuelled, plus a tombola too.
Santa
Enjoy a festive time at Pinewood Miniature Railway. The Santa Specials include a train journey around the line – look out for the reindeer and other lineside decorations, a small gift for each child and seasonal refreshments. Book at pinewoodrailway.co.uk/specialevents.html
Santa is back at Chocolates for Chocoholics in Hurst. Create and decorate your festive chocolate bar with Mrs Claus, join the elf training course, post your letter to Santa. Selected dates in December. Book at chocolates-for-chocoholics.co.uk/santas-christmas-chocolate-grotto
Father Christmas has found time to visit Bucklebury Farm again, go to buckleburyfarm.co.uk to find out more details of what he’s up to & to book.
We’re sharing a taste of A Very Vegan Christmas – The Complete Mini Cookbook for a Magical Festive Feast
Get ready to make this holiday season unforgettable with A Very Vegan Christmas – The Complete Mini Cookbook for a Magical Festive Feast, available now, exclusively on the Viva! shop. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or preparing an intimate dinner, this new mini cookbook is set to transform your Christmas spread into an event to remember.
Packed with 30 mouthwatering recipes, A Very Vegan Christmas brings together showstopping starters, magnificent mains, essential sides and indulgent desserts, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Chestnut, mushroom & red wine pithivier (serves two)
This traditional French dish, with its sunbeam pastry, is a feast for the eyes, rich, tasty, easy to create and makes for the perfect Christmas centrepiece or any time you’re feeling fancy on a Sunday! Pithivier is named after the French town of Pithiviers, where the dish is commonly assumed to originate..
Ingredients: Filling:
One red onion, finely diced
Two leeks, ends removed and finely sliced
400g/14 oz button mushrooms, halved
Three cloves garlic, finely chopped
½ tsp cayenne pepper
50g/¼ cup plain flour
2 tbsp tomato purée (or use harissa paste for a bit of spice)
1 tbsp dried or fresh thyme, stalks removed and finely chopped
½ tbsp dried or fresh rosemary or oregano, stalks removed and finely chopped
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
175ml/¾ cup vegan red wine (use alcohol-free if preferred or mix 1 tbsp red miso paste with 175ml boiling water)
250ml/1 cup vegan stock
1 tbsp soft brown sugar
250g/1½ cups pre-cooked quinoa or lentils
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pastry:
640g/22.5 oz vegan ready-to-use puff pastry sheets
2 tbsp unsweetened plant milk mixed with 1 tbsp syrup (eg maple or agave) for brushing
Method:
Filling
Fry the onion on a medium heat in a little vegan butter or oil until golden.
Add the leeks and fry for a further 5 minutes.
Add the mushrooms and fry for another 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and the cayenne pepper and fry for 2 minutes.
Stir through the flour until all the vegetables have been covered.
Stir through the tomato purée and add all of the other ingredients apart from the pre-cooked quinoa/lentils.
Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring regularly, for around 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has reduced down significantly (you don’t want the mixture to be too runny).
Add the quinoa or lentils to the mix and stir through. The consistency should be thick but not too thick. Add a little more stock if necessary (you don’t want it to be runny). Set aside until needed.
Pastry
Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas Mark 5 (ensure it’s fully preheated).
Line a large baking tray with greaseproof paper and set aside.
On a floured surface, use a large dinner plate to cut one of the pastry sheets around the shape of the plate (this is your small pastry circle).
Place the smaller circle on the lined baking tray and set aside.
Take the next pastry sheet and again cut around the shape of the plate but this time leave 2cm of extra pastry around the edge (this is your large pastry circle).
Assembly
Transfer the mixture onto the small pastry circle and heap the mixture as high as possible, leaving at least 5cm of pastry free around the edge.
Cover the mixture with the large pastry circle and seal the edges with your fingers. Brush the edges with some oil.
To create the sun pattern, make a tiny hole in the top centre and then score wavy lines deeply (but not all the way through!) from the centre to the outer edge of the pastry using a sharp knife.
Brush the outside of the pastry with the plant milk/syrup mix until fully coated.
Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until crisp and golden.
Known as a wildflower, perennial weed and many other unrepeatable names, it is the gardeners’ nightmare – but is there any good to it?
The plant: Herbaceous perennial looking remarkably like a white morning glory! It’s in the family Convulvulaceae and was indeed once known as Convolvulus. It has a beautiful trumpet flower and is loved by bees, butterflies and hoverflies. It is the food source of many moth caterpillars including the Convolvulus hawk moth and the elephant hawk moth. It can be seen rambling through hedgerows, up trees and fences and seems to survive anything. It spreads by roots, shoots and seeds. The roots can regenerate from the smallest section, the shoots can layer themselves and the seeds can remain dormant in the soil for over 30 years! It’s an incredible plant which thrives when all around it have given up in floods, droughts and arctic temperatures. Even though it completely disappears in winter, it will be back!!
The weed: In our gardens it can invade everywhere, twining up crops, flowers, shrubs and trees. It smothers plants like a sheet and competes for nutrients, light and water. The shoots can reach 3m long and are impossible to remove once established as they attach themselves like string around the stems of your prize plants.
What is the answer?: At CGS we totally organic and are embarking on a renovation programme. Perennials are being dug up and bindweed removed before potting and put in quarantine. Shrubs completely cut down and other plants cleansed of the perpetrator. Once the ground is ‘clear’ we are applying a thick mulch. The bindweed will lurk underground and pop up in the spring when we will be ready for it. The theory is if you can see the ground you can hoe off the new bindweed shoots as they pop up. This is completely opposite to my well stocked garden. It can never be obliterated but over time can be kept under control with systematic perseverance!!
l Cathie’s Gardening School runs gardening courses and practical workshops as well many other enjoyable learning experiences. Very limited spaces available next year.
R&A’s resident wine columnist, Giles Luckett, chooses the red wines he’ll be sipping this autumn
Hello. I’m writing this in early September, and as I look out, I can see leaves on the ground and feel the first hints of autumn’s chill. Autumn’s for wine lovers, given the crop of new season foods, so here are the autumnal reds I’ll be turning to this year.
First up, the Cune Rioja Crianza (Majestic £10.50 on a mixed six). This ever-reliable wine has been on a run of form recently, thanks to some fantastic vintages and is a must-try for Rioja lovers. Fruit-driven and with bags of character, its bouquet of summer pudding with cream sets the tone for an easy-to-love wine that’s versatile and food-friendly. Its cherry, strawberry, and blackberry fruit is given subtle support by oak, and the lively, cranberry and anise finish will bring out the best in everything from tomato pasta to a steak and ale pie.
Masi is one of the great names of Italian wine; their mighty Masi Costasera Amarone Classico (Waitrose £38.50) is magnificent and capable of complementing even the heartiest of winter fare. For something lighter and brighter, try the Fresco di Masi Rosso (Goldenacre Wines £13.99). Made organically and with a skilful lightness of touch, the plentiful red cherry, pomegranate, and redcurrant flavours could easily be simplistic and thin. The intensity with which they are delivered, and the underlying floral essences, instead make for a stylish wine that’s capable of pairing with everything from red meats to savoury vegetarian fare – we had it with falafels, and it was excellent.
When it comes to great wines that offer great value for money, few nations can compete with Portugal. The trade’s been singing their praises for decades, and its throng of converts has seen it go from cult to mainstream following. A delicious example of a modern Portuguese red is the Esporao Monte Velho Red (Noble Green £10.50). Supple and smooth, sum this wine up. It’s easy-going charm comes from its softness and the abundance of wild berries, strawberry, and cranberry fruit, all of which are tinted with herbs and mint. The absence of oak allows the fruit to shine, making for a wine that’s as good on its own as it is with red or white meats, mellow, creamy cheeses, or mid-week pizza.
Burgundy is another fantastic autumnal choice, and while prices remain high, something the tiny 2024 vintage is not going to help, know where to look, and brilliance on a budget can be found. Take the Jadot Bourgogne Gamay (Sainsbury’s £16.50), a wine I noted as ‘pure purple pleasure’. Gamay is sometimes seen as Pinot Noir’s poor relation, but this is unfair. On sandy, limestone soils, it’s capable of producing wines of power, generosity, and complexity. This medium-bodied wine is packed with black cherry, plum, and strawberry fruit, and within its silky body are highlights of black pepper, almonds, sour cherries and woody spices. Just the thing for pot-roasted pheasant.
Next, a wine high point from a land down under with the Chateau Tanunda Grand Barossa 2022 (Sainsbury’s £14). For me, this is the perfect autumn wine. Like the season, it offers mellow satisfaction with bright highlights of berry fruits. Deep red, the nose is all of red and black berries, with an earthy, mushroom, and iodine tone. Quite full, but no blockbuster, it’s juicy, pepper-tinted cassis and raspberry fruit give it freshness, while the spicy oak and dusty tannins give it depth. Pair this with a well-cooked steak or perhaps a lasagne or some other tomato-rich pasta dish.
Nipping over the Tasman Sea to New Zealand, we find a cool climate Pinot Noir hot spot. Pinot is often referred to as being fickle, though I’ve heard many a winemaker describe it using a different f-word. It seems to like New Zealand, though, and produces great wines at all levels. I recently had another encounter with the King’s Series Pinot Noir (Majestic £14/£12 on a mixed six). This is a showcase for New World Pinot, one that shows its capacity to be fruit-driven and racy, while being complex and satisfying. An opening salvo of raspberries, redcurrants, and brambles is followed by darker tones of black cherry and coffee, with chalky minerals, cream and strawberries toward the end. Fresh enough to serve with fish such as trout or salmon, it was a knockout with shepherd’s pie.
In my recent white wine article, I recommended the Puglia Pop Verdeca (Perfect Cellar £19.96). Inspired by it, I took a look at their reds, the Luminaria (Perfect Cellar £26.96) and the Fico (Perfect Cellar £26.96). The Luminaria is made from Primitivo, a grape I have a love-hate relationship with, by which I mean I love hating it. Almost all the Primitivo’s I’ve tasted have been over-extracted, sickly, smell like a lump of putty and have been about as welcome in my glass. The Luminara is devoid of all of this. The bouquet is rich and heady, boasting prunes, black cherries, cough drops, plum jam, bitter chocolate and herbs, with tangy loganberries imparting freshness to the finish.
The Fico is somewhat lighter and fresher. Cherry red, its bouquet is suffused with red cherries, almonds, and roses. In the mouth, it’s gentle, soft, and rounded. Cherries dominate, but complexity is added by black berries, blue berries with a cherry conserve sweetness that’s nicely balanced by red berry acidity and soft tannins. This is a cheery, easy-to-love wine that tastes as good as it looks and is a super solo artist.
Cabernet Sauvignon is often referred to as the king of grapes, and like royalty it can be haughty and severe. Equally, it can be generous, gracious, and a giver of joy, and that’s exactly what you get with the Journey’s End Sir Lowry (Waitrose £15). Packed with plums, this dark, smoky wine comes loaded with spiced black fruits, touches of mint chocolate and crisp, dry finish. Just the thing for a well-cooked steak or a cottage pie, it’s got the power and intensity to pair with a wide range of savoury dishes.
Spain is a great source of compelling red wines, and the de Nariz De Nariz Monastrell (Perfect Cellar £29.95) shows they nose what they are doing. Sorry, that was funny at the tasting. Made from local speciality Monastrell, this is a big, exuberant wine with bags of character. Inky blackened red, aromas of dark berries, spices, earth and black treacle soar from the glass. On the palate, it’s rich and full-bodied, the ample prune, damson, bramble and fig fruit are bounded by smooth tannins and a touch of peppery complexity. Low in acidity, it has a luxurious feel that makes it suitable for pairing with a cheese board, meatballs, or charcuterie.
I’ll stay in Spain for my last wine, the Beronia Gran Reserva (11) (Majestic £25, £23 on a mixed 6). Gran Reserva Rioja is only made in great years, and when made by a quality-obsessed producer such as Beronia, they can be extraordinary. The nose encapsulates autumn. Red and black berries, wood smoke, and a touch of vegetal decay make for an alluring mix. In the mouth, it’s soft, yielding and yet well-structured. The black and red berries are swathed in creamy oak but retain sufficient intensity and freshness to hold their own. Toward the finish, herbs, spices, and orange zest come through, attended by polished tannins and a long, nuanced finish that combines zest and depth. Open and let it breathe for a couple of hours, and serve with game bird, coq au vin, or chorizo pasta.
With autumn under way, you may see a different version of your dog than you have earlier in the year. So what’s going on? Zara Linehan of More Than Sit Dog Training has the answers
As the days get colder and damper, arthritis and joint issues may become more problematic for pooch than in the warmer months. Dogs are excellent at masking pain but look out for:
• stiffness or lameness when moving, especially when getting up;
• reluctance to go on walks, use stairs or sit when asked;
• less tolerance of others in their personal space.
If you suspect your dog might have arthritis, chat to your vet. There’s lot you can do to help alleviate their discomfort: medication, hydrotherapy and changes in the home, like supportive bedding and providing non-slip surfaces, can drastically improve pup’s quality of life.
At this time of year, your dog’s nose might also go into overdrive and they become more distracted. Moisture captures scent molecules, so damp days become more enticing for sniffing dogs. Coupled with increased biological activity in humid soil, there’s lots to keep your dog’s nose (and brain) busy!
With dusk falling earlier, you may find pooch is more alert on their evening walks. Dogs have excellent vision in low light levels and are better at detecting movement than humans, but their detailed vision is not as good.
Your dog may see and react to something you may not notice or think twice about. For example, a parent carrying their child on their shoulders may appear to your dog as a giant two-headed monster. Or a person struggling along with grocery bags will walk, sound and look different to the pedestrians your dog usually sees. If pup does spook at something: increase distance to help them feel more comfortable; allow them time to watch, process and understand they’re not under threat; and, as always, give them heaps of praise for being so brave!
Before you hang up your stockings and baste the turkey, there’s more festive fun to enjoy than you can shake your tinsel at!
Festive fun is firmly on the menu for all this month and next, so stop wrapping and start carolling!
Surrey
Family fun
National Trust Images / Arnhel de Serra
The Snowdogs are coming to Hatchlands Park this winter. Inspired by the animated sequel to the late Raymond Briggs’ timeless picture book The Snowman™, visitors can follow a festive trail through the parkland to find Wild in Art’s 10 uniquely decorated sculptures of The Snowdog. There’ll be fun activities along the way, and even some games for your own pup! And on December afternoons the house will be open, beautifully decorated for a traditional country house Christmas.
Waddle into Claremont this festive season for A Very Penguin Christmas, Nov 22nd-Jan 4th, where you’ll find a group of adventurous penguins have travelled from the South Pole to the North Pole (aka Claremont) in search of Father Christmas. Join Captain Iceberg, Professor Snowflake and friends as they explore the garden with fun games and activities.
National Trust Images / Arnhel de Serra
Get creative with local artist Sarah Rawlins and bring some Christmas cheer to your home on Dec 6th. Drop in to Dapdune to make your own festively decorated pompom snowman, Christmas keyrings or friendships bracelets. Free. Snowmen £4.50, bracelets and keyrings £3.50. Join a Christmas Family Wreath Making Workshop on 7th using natural materials, children can create their own simpler special version of a wreath. £49 per adult + 1 child. Additional children £12.50. Booking essential. nationaltrust.org.uk/riverwey.
Tumble down the rabbit hole into a world of wonder and delight this festive season at Polesden Lacey. Follow the White Rabbit inside the house to see rooms inspired by the story of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Outside, follow the children’s trail around the grounds to win a prize and enjoy a range of seasonal treats. Nov 22nd-Jan 4th.
Discover the magic of the Nutcracker at Winkworth Arboretum, Nov 29th-Jan 5th. Follow Clara’s footsteps through the winter woodlands, uncovering storybook scenes and meeting life-sized nutcracker sculptures. Enjoy festive games along the trail and hop aboard the vintage carousel.
Step into a Christmas Enchantment on a midwinter journey through Petworth House drawing on the park and gardens taking inspiration from the Winter Solstice and the surrounding nature. As part of Christmas Enchantment, Brambley Hedge inspired by Jill Barklem’s Winter Story and The Secret Staircase, is coming to Petworth House with cosy scenes all around. Festive favourites will fill the air at Petworth House after dark, with sparkling lights and a courtyard choir on Nov 29th & Dec 20th. 5.30pm.
Christmas brings many gifts not least pantos and you can take your seat for an early one at Chertsey Hall when Bridges Musical Theatre present The Wizard of Oz on Dec 16th & 18th-20th. Join Dorothy and friends as they take the yellow brick road to the Emerald City. Tickets at bridgesmt.org.uk/current-production
Discover the true meaning of Christmas with the telling of the Nativity in an immersive theatre experience. Stand with the shepherds, walk with Mary, Joseph and the donkey, journey with Roman soldiers and enter the stable to watch the miracle unfold with the Wintershall Nativity, Dec 18th-21st. Book at wintershall.org.uk/event/the-nativity-journey/
At West Horsley Place this festive season there is something for all: art, culture, heritage and, of course, Father Christmas! From Nov 21st–23rd, the Arts and Artisans Christmas Fair fills the historic buildings with hand-made jewellery, ceramics, textiles, paintings and more, alongside live music and seasonal delicacies – all entry costs to support heritage restoration. On select dates the Manor transforms into a winter wonderland for families: dress-up corners, biscuit decorating, storytelling, toy testing – and a chance to meet Father Christmas in his cosy study. Find out more at westhorsleyplace.org
Haslemere Museum is getting everyone into the festive spirit with Christmas events throughout November and December. There are evening Christmas craft workshops (the wreath-making workshop includes a glass of festive bubbly!). For children, there are decoration-making sessions, and a chance to visit Santa in his Victorian parlour. And don’t forget the Museum’s gift shop offers plenty of Christmas present ideas! See details on the What’s On page of the Museum’s website.
National Trust Images / Paul Harris
Celebrate the season with fun for all ages at Farnham Maltings. Browse handmade gifts at the Christmas Fair (Nov 19th&20th), enjoy live theatre with The Paper Dolls (Nov 29th&30th), and discover winter magic with family show The Snowsmith (Dec 12th–24th). Plus, experience a Traditional Christmas at the Museum of Farnham (Nov 29th&30th).
It’s Christmas Eve and Santa is about to set off on his deliveries but his sleigh has broken down, can you help him fix it? Santa’s on His Sleigh! is an exciting and interactive Christmas show with on screen Santa’s virtual little helper Head Elf Justy, played by Justin Fletcher. G Live, Dec 13th-24th. Book at trafalgartickets.com/g-live-guildford/en-GB/event/family/santas-on-his-sleigh-tickets
As we enter panto season, head to Yvonne Arnaud Theatre to meet Beauty and the Beast, Nov 29th-Jan 4th, expect spectacular songs, showstopping dances and panto magic in a beauty of a show you’ve got to see to Belle-ieve.
Visit Santa
Santa will also be popping up at Watts Gallery and at Squire’s Garden Centres at Badshot Lea, Frensham, Milford & Woking. Check websites for dates.
Travel with Mizens Railway on a picturesque journey on a winter evening with the site and trains illuminated by thousands of lights on Nov 29th and take a ride with Santa on Dec 7th, 14th & 21st. Booking essential at mizens-bookings.org.uk
Meet real reindeer in the Reindeer Lodge at Chobham Adventure Farm and join in the chaos with The Jingle Jesters. Book at chobhamadventurefarm.co.uk/christmas25
Festive markets
Premium Christmas trees available from 22nd November at Ramster Hall. Festive setting with mulled wine, seasonal treats and gift ideas. Post letters to Father Christmas. Ramster Christmas Market, Nov 22nd & 23rd, 10am-4pm, local artisan stalls selling handcrafted gins, ceramics, art, jewellery, and beauty products. Entry £2.50 (under 12s free) includes a donation to Shooting Star. Don’t miss festive gnome-making on Nov 30th and space-themed theatre with music and puppetry on Dec 14th, 3-8 yrs.
Find Christmas presents and a treat for yourself at Petworth House’s festive makers market full of high quality artisan gifts including jewellery, homewares, textiles and art, Nov 29th & 30th.
Guildford Cathedral’s shopping adventure boasts over 50 stalls with a stunning array of bespoke Christmas gifts, decorations, spirits, jewellery, accessories and more, Nov 21st & 22nd.
Illuminations
RHS Glow at Wisley is a sparkly Christmas adventure for the whole family from Nov 21st to Jan 4th when RHS Garden Wisley becomes a glittering wonderland bursting with festive fun for kids and grown-ups alike. RHS Glow runs on selected dates and tickets must be booked in advance at rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley/whats-on/wisley-glow
Explore the light installations around the 30-40 minute trail of Guildford Castle. Illuminate will transform the castle into a winter spectacle, Nov 15th-Jan 4th. Explore the historic grounds on a magical journey through several activations showcasing the castle and its beautiful grounds. Tickets at illuminateguildford.co.uk/
Gilbert White’s Eco Light Festival, a winter light show with a difference, starts on Nov 20th. With environmental consciousness at its heart, the light trail takes you on a magical journey through Gilbert White’s House where you can experience nature come to life through inventive sensory displays. Then weave your way into the garden where more magic awaits. The light festival is designed to have a minimal impact on the natural world, using renewable energy, solar power, UV (among others) to power it’s lights. The trail takes light pollution into account and does not up-light trees and keeps tight hours to ensure our wildlife is as undisturbed as possible. Where possible reusable or natural materials are used. This winter discover the magic of nature! More at gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk
Handmade & heartfelt gifts are the best choice to spread the love. Here’s our Bucks gift guide including markets, fairs & fun, offering hidden gems & lots of sparkle
Joy is the fuel that fires up the festive sparkle, and nothing stokes that joy like a thoughtful, handmade gift.
From Marlow to Stokenchurch and beyond, Buckinghamshire’s talented makers will shine at fairs and markets between now and Christmas. A group of local crafters and creatives including illustrator Nicola Metcalfe (nicolametcalfe.com) will offer a warm welcome at their third craft fair at Marlow’s All Saints’ Church Hall, 10am-3pm on Saturday 8th November, offering everything from hand-painted glassware, locally themed pieces and fused art to pottery, jewellery, crochet items, memory bears, and handmade decorations.
“Why buy from a huge retailer when you can meet the maker, see the care that goes into a gift, and find something truly one-of-a-kind?” A good question from textile artist Marie Jones who finds inspiration here in the Chiltern Hills. You can browse her fibre art and embroidery kits, which invite each recipient to take a piece of nature-inspired creativity home, thanks to Sally Evans whose craft fairs in Princes Risborough, 10am–4pm on Saturday, 15th November, and Thame Town Hall on 6th & 20th December will offer art, jewellery, ceramics, textiles & bespoke items. Also starring at Sally’s fair is Longwick pen-and-ink artist Mia Babb who blends fine line drawing with metal leaf to create striking pieces and homewares. “Shopping locally is a way to give something beautiful and original while backing the community,” she says. You can also shop at jealouschild.co.uk
Magical Missenden favourite & foodie hub Peterley Manor Farm will welcome you for the Christmas fair, 13th-16th November. Among the local creatives starring is Vicki Scoble who creates personalised pottery and painting kits for families, and baby keepsakes. “People love the chance to create memories as well as gifts,” she says; visit pot-tastic.co.uk. Also at Peterley’s Christmas market is artist Debbie Shrimpton (our cover star last year) who depicts Chesham, Missenden & other local scenes in her beautiful artworks; visit debbieshrimptonillustrates.co.uk
E.J. Churchill in Lane End offers the perfect festive escape in the Chilterns. From shooting experiences for all abilities to seasonal dining, gin tasting & parties in the Pavilion, every celebration feels unique. Don’t miss the late-night shopping special on Thursday, 4th December! Visit ejchurchill.com
Supporting local charities, South Oxfordshire Christmas Fair at The Oxfordshire Golf Club near Thame on 18th November, features almost 60 local stalls. Enjoy lots of sparkle in Marlow on 20th November, plus Carols on the Causeway on 16th December. And Christmas at Waddesdon Manor, 22nd November to 4th January, invites you to meet makers, shop small, and soak up the festive atmosphere; waddesdon.org.uk
Copas Farm Shop near Cookham offers award-winning turkeys (whole or in boxes for pick-up or delivery); copasfarmshop.co.uk
“Christmas is when our work really comes alive,” says Haddenham jeweller Liz Dee of The Silver Workshop. “Each piece is unique; you’ll never find someone else with the same gift!” Liz opens her studio for commissions and workshops. Find her at the Elgiva Artisans Craft Fair in Chesham, 11am–4pm on Sunday, 23rd November (£2.50pp entry). Visit elgiva.com/craft-fair-exhibitors-2025 for all the makers!
Amanda Thomas, founder of Chapel House Fragrances, brings extra sparkle with her new Christmas bauble candle workshops. Her unit at Lay-by Farm “is where all the magic happens! Participants create three full-size candles in stunning electroplated bauble jars – one red, one green, one gold. They’re bigger than people expect, and make a beautiful handmade gift, and once they’re finished, can be used as ornaments or elegant trinket jars.” chapelhousefragrances.co.uk
Amersham artist Ali Mackie explores the bright side of life in her & workshops and gifts, cards & more (as mentioned last month, she’s at @amershamartunlocked on 1st & 2nd November). More next month! Visit alimackie.art
Also shop for lovely heartfelt goodies atTeenie Craft Collective in Great Missendenand check out the shiny, sweary goodies from Katrin Gaska (AKA Colourful Kat) on Etsy & more @chicsign.studio. Another golden example of Bucks creativity is Kate Wilkinson whose jewellery is inspired by nature. Follow her @katewilkinsonjewellery & find her at Yattendon Winter Market, 29th & 30th November; modernmakerscollective.co.uk
