Astrology & Tarot for October

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What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers her new monthly guides for all signs…

Aries (21 March – 20 April)

October is alive with new connections and opportunities to travel. The Full Moon on the 6th lights
up your independence, you may need to draw a line that day, reminding others where you stand.
Mid-month brings harmony in matters of the heart as Venus moves into Libra on the 13th, adding
sparkle to relationships. Singles could see fresh possibilities under the New Moon on the 21st, a
great moment to refresh dating profiles or simply stay open to chance encounters. On the 22nd,
Neptune retreats into Pisces, stirring deep reflection, while the Sun links with Mars, sharpening
focus on shared finances. Use this energy to restructure, invest wisely, and plan for lasting stability.
Wanderlust peaks around the 28th as Mars aligns with Jupiter, an ideal time for adventures near or
far. Mercury follows into your travel sector on the 29th, encouraging you to book trips or short
getaways before its retrograde begins on 9 November.

Tarot Insight – The Moon
The Moon casts a softer, uncertain light, reminding you that not everything is as it seems. Confusion or mixed signals may surround you, but this isn’t a time for rushing. Trust your instincts over appearances, and let your intuition guide you through the haze. What feels unclear now will gradually take shape, revealing truths at the right moment.

Taurus (21 April – 20 May)

Work matters dominate early October, with the Sun in Libra giving you influence and a strong voice in professional spaces. The Full Moon on the 6th invites you to pause, a quiet day for yourself will restore balance. Tensions may arise in close relationships around the 11th as Venus opposes Saturn, so avoid unnecessary disputes. From the 13th, Venus brightens your daily routines and work life, making your environment more pleasant and possibly sparking more romance. The New Moon on the 21st supports career changes or new projects, encouraging you to step forward with confidence. Neptune’s return to your social sector on the 22nd may expose unreliable friends, while the Sun’s entry into Scorpio the same day boosts your courage to face relationship issues directly. By the 29th, Mercury enhances dialogue in intimate partnerships, helping you express yourself with clarity and compassion.

Tarot Insight – The Tower
The Tower brings sudden shifts, often where stability seemed certain. It may feel unsettling at first, but its purpose is to dismantle what no longer serves you. When old patterns or structures fall away, space opens for renewal. What rises from the rubble will be more authentic and lasting, if you’re willing to let go.

Gemini (21 May – 20 June)

Your words carry extra weight this month. Mercury moves into Scorpio on the 6th, enhancing your ability to organise, persuade, and inspire colleagues. That same day, the Full Moon favours time with friends, perhaps celebrating a milestone. Venus brings romance on the 13th as she glides into Libra, making this a wonderful moment for love, dates, or deepening bonds. Your sharp wit is amplified by the Mercury–Mars conjunction on the 20th, making debates and negotiations highly successful. The New Moon on the 21st highlights romance and celebrations, ideal for proposals, parties, or new creative projects. Once the Sun enters Scorpio on the 22nd, work demands increase, urging you to step up as leader. On the 29th, mercury’s move into Sagittarius challenges you to balance honesty with diplomacy, particularly in important conversations.

Tarot Insight – The Lovers
The Lovers call you to pay attention to alignment, between yourself and others, and within your own choices. This card isn’t only about relationships, but about living in a way that reflects your values. A decision may present itself this month; choose not with logic alone, but with what resonates at the deepest level of truth.

Cancer (21 June – 22 July)

Domestic life takes centre stage in October. Mercury’s entry into Scorpio on the 6th sharpens communication within the family, while the Full Moon the same day shines on your career, prompting decisions around work–life balance. Venus enters Libra on the 13th, inspiring you to beautify your home or prepare for cosy autumn gatherings. Property matters are favoured under the New Moon on the 21st, making this a strong period for buying, selling, or moving. The Sun’s move into Scorpio on the 22nd energises romance and creativity, a joyful transit for both singles and couples. As the month closes, Mercury shifts into Sagittarius on the 29th, smoothing professional dialogue and offering a chance to make your case for promotion or fair recognition.

Tarot Insight- Two of Cups
The Two of Cups centres on connection, reminding you that balance in relationships is key. This may show up through love, friendship, or collaboration. Openness and vulnerability will strengthen the bonds around you. Where there has been distance, reconciliation is possible if both sides are willing to meet in the middle.

Leo (23 July – 22 August)

October begins with a flurry of tasks, conversations, and errands. With Mercury and Mars in your domestic zone from the 6th, family life feels especially active. The Full Moon that day highlights long-distance opportunities, making it ideal for travel or planning a holiday. Venus sweetens your words from the 13th, perfect for romantic gestures or heartfelt conversations. Guard against overspending around the 17th when the Sun clashes with Jupiter. The New Moon on the 21st may bring surprising news, invitations, or announcements that alter your plans. Once the Sun shifts into Scorpio on the 22nd, you’ll likely be called to take charge of family matters. Mercury in Sagittarius on the 29th adds eloquence to your love life, whether declaring feelings, resolving issues, or asking for commitment, you’ll know just what to say.

Tarot Insight – Three of Swords
The Three of Swords can bring moments of pain or disappointment, but it also clears the way for honesty. This is a card of release, facing truths that may sting, yet bring clarity once illusions are stripped away. Healing begins when you allow yourself to feel fully, then let go of what no longer belongs.

Virgo (23 September – 22 October)

Money matters are highlighted this month. With the Sun in your financial sector, opportunities to increase earnings present themselves, but Mercury’s clash with Jupiter on the 1st warns against careless spending. By the 6th, Mercury enters Scorpio, sharpening your ability to present ideas with clarity. The Full Moon the same day draws attention to shared resources, a good moment to review debts or joint accounts. Venus joins your money zone on the 13th, increasing income potential but also tempting you to spend. Hold to your budget. New income sources could arrive around the 21st’s New Moon, bringing fresh opportunities for work or side projects. From the 22nd, the Sun highlights short trips and learning, encouraging movement and curiosity. By the 29th, Mercury’s entry into Sagittarius stirs restlessness ,you may prefer to roam rather than stay put.

Tarot Insight – The Empress
The Empress surrounds you with abundance and creative energy. She calls you to nurture what
matters most, your wellbeing, your projects, your relationships. Growth is available if you give
consistent care and attention. This card also highlights the importance of rest and replenishment; by
tending to yourself, you allow more to flourish around you.

Libra (23 September – 22 October)

With the Sun in your sign, October begins with you firmly in the spotlight. Mercury and Mars in your money zone from the 6th boost your determination to secure financial gains. That same day, the Full Moon could bring closure in a partnership, offering clarity about your next steps. Venus graces your sign on the 13th, urging you to refresh your look or treat yourself. Romance thrives mid-month, especially on the 14th, when Venus forms supportive angles with Uranus and Pluto. The New Moon on the 21st is your chance for a personal reset, a brilliant time to refine your style or set new intentions. From the 22nd, the Sun’s move into Scorpio improves financial prospects. Mercury’s entry into your travel and communication zone on the 29th suggests uplifting short trips or local adventures to end the month.


Tarot Insight- Knight of Wands
The Knight of Wands bursts in with passion and drive. His energy is bold, restless, and full of possibility. This card urges you to act on inspiration rather than hold back. A sense of adventure may carry you forward quickly, but be mindful not to burn out, direct your fire where it matters most.

Scorpio (23 October – 22 November)

October begins quietly, with the Sun in your reflective 12th house. This is a time to rest, recharge, and guard your energy. On the 6th, Mercury enters your sign, empowering you to voice boundaries with ease. The Full Moon that day may also bring closure to work projects, freeing you from old commitments. Avoid tough negotiations around the 7th, when Mercury and Pluto clash. Venus joins the Sun on the 13th, potentially stirring a hidden attraction or secret connection. The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for retreat, a spa day or solitude could do wonders. Your energy lifts as the Sun enters Scorpio on the 22nd, marking your personal season and four weeks of greater vitality. By the 29th, Mercury moves into your finance zone, helping you negotiate deals and strengthen your earnings.


Tarot Insight – Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune signals a turning point. Life’s cycles are shifting, and what once felt fixed may change without warning. This card reminds you that fortune moves in rhythms, sometimes up, sometimes down, but always in motion. Trust that what leaves creates room for something more aligned to arrive.

Sagittarius (23 November – 21 December)

Your social diary looks full as October opens, thanks to the Sun lighting your friendship zone. Even so, Mercury’s shift into Scorpio on the 6th encourages you to carve out quiet time. The Full Moon that evening makes for a magical date night or romantic outing. Venus brings warmth to partnerships from the 13th, with single Sagittarians finding favourable opportunities to meet someone new. The New Moon on the 21st highlights friendship circles, social events, or group projects, an uplifting time to celebrate with others. From the 22nd, the Sun moves into your introspection zone, urging you to withdraw a little and prepare for busier times ahead. On the 29th, Mercury enters your sign, giving your words weight and confidence. This is your chance to express yourself boldly and directly.


Tarot Insight- Knight of Cups
The Knight of Cups arrives as a messenger of dreams, romance, and creativity. He encourages you to follow where your heart leads, even if the path feels uncertain. Opportunities for love, art, or soulful exploration may arise now. Move towards what inspires you, this is a time to let imagination and feeling guide your steps.

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January)

Career matters shine brightly this month, with the Sun at the top of your chart. You’re well-placed to advance, impress, and lead. On the 6th, Mercury and Mars energise your social life, while the Full Moon the same day wraps up domestic projects or family concerns. Recognition is yours when Venus joins the Sun on the 13th, expect praise, rewards, or heartfelt appreciation. The New Moon on the 21st marks a pivotal career moment, a promotion, job opportunity, or breakthrough in your public reputation. The Sun’s entry into Scorpio on the 22nd keeps social life buzzing, reminding you to celebrate achievements with friends. As the month ends, Mercury in Sagittarius encourages discretion: others may confide secrets, and your silence will be valued.

Tarot Insight – Two of Wands
The Two of Wands shows you standing at the threshold of expansion. You have built strong foundations, and now the question is how far you’re willing to go. Choices about travel, study, or future plans may present themselves. This card asks for vision and courage, what you imagine now can shape the next stage of your journey.

Aquarius (20 January – 19 February)

October awakens your longing for adventure. With the Sun in your travel zone, opportunities for exploration abound. Even so, Mercury and Mars energise your career sector on the 6th, keeping professional matters in focus. That same day, the Full Moon supports a short trip or new learning. Venus enters Libra on the 13th, adding romance to your journeys and adventures. The New Moon on the 21st once again encourages travel, study, or teaching, keep your passport close. On the 22nd, the Sun climbs to the top of your chart, bringing four weeks of professional growth and recognition. By the 29th, Mercury enters your friendship zone, kicking off a lively season of social gatherings and community events.

Tarot Insight – Seven of Cups
The Seven of Cups presents many options, but not all are what they appear. Some choices may be tempting illusions, while others hold genuine value. Take time to ground yourself and look clearly before committing. By cutting through the fog of fantasy, you’ll be able to choose the path that supports your long-term growth.

Pisces (20 February – 20 March)

Finances are spotlighted this month, urging you to review budgets and plan for security. With Mercury in your travel zone from the 6th, wanderlust may tempt you, though the Full Moon that evening also illuminates your money matters, weigh the cost before committing. Venus in Libra on the 13th stirs passion and intimacy, encouraging closeness with a partner. The New Moon on the 21st is an excellent day to review investments, seek advice, or make plans to strengthen your resources. On the 22nd, the Sun enters Scorpio, opening opportunities in travel, study, or spiritual exploration. By the 29th, Mercury’s shift into Sagittarius increases workplace communication, positioning you to share ideas with those in authority and impress colleagues.

Tarot Insight – The High Priestess
The High Priestess draws you inward, into quiet reflection and hidden knowledge. She invites you to listen closely to dreams, instincts, and subtle signs. Answers may not come through logic, but through intuition and inner awareness. This is a time of observation rather than action, what is concealed will be revealed when you are ready to see it.

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Beaconsfield’s twin ice hockey winners 

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We’re raising a toast to brothers Austin & Dawson Osborn who have just signed ice hockey contracts with Milton Lightning  

Beaconsfield has a new reason to cheer as brothers Austin and Dawson Osborn step onto the professional ice hockey stage, signing for Milton Keynes Lightning ahead of the new season. 

Aged just 21, the twins have had an extraordinary international journey. Born in Sussex, they lived in Scotland, Prague, Canada and the US before settling in Bucks four years ago. Along the way they represented Team GB at both U18 and U20 level, building a reputation as two of Britain’s brightest young talents. Now, after years overseas, they are returning to play in front of home crowds. 

Just weeks ago, the twins made headlines when invited to train with Elite League giants, the Nottingham Panthers. Not only did they impress during pre-season, they also became the first ever twins to play together for the Panthers, skating in front of more than 6,000 fans against a Canadian touring side – and helping secure a memorable win to boot. 

Austin and Dawson, who are both 6ft 1, are more than just teammates. As “mirror” twins (one is left-handed and the other right-handed), they bring perfectly balanced strengths to the game. Their instinctive understanding of each other’s play means they often line up together – a bonded partnership that leaves opposition players scrambling. 

“They second guess each other in the best way,” says proud dad of four Harvey. “It’s like watching two halves of the same player.” 

Off the ice, they are equally close. Though their personalities differ, they share passions for travel, fashion and food. In Beaconsfield, they are regulars at restaurants including Prime Steak, Bacchus, Sajna Indian and China Diner. 

Behind their success lies a decade of sacrifice. “As a parent, I now look at every professional athlete and think, behind them are parents who gave up a lot,” adds Harvey. “We dedicated ten years of evenings, weekends, holidays and much more to get the boys here.” 

The path was not without setbacks. Missed selections, limited ice time, broken bones, lost teeth and stitches all tested their parents’ resolve. Yet their determination never faltered. “Ice hockey is officially the fastest and most physical team sport on earth,” says Harvey. “But it’s also the most rewarding.” 

For Milton Keynes Lightning, the signings represent more than just two promising players. Head Coach Tim Wallace praised Dawson as “a strong skater with creativity and reliability,” describing Austin as “big, strong and physical, with the skill to make plays.” 

With the Elite League already taking notice, the future looks dazzling for the Osborn twins. As they lace up for their first professional games this season, Beaconsfield – and Britain – will be watching with pride. 

To find out more about the brothers, and their new podcast, please visit ozibice.com 

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Pots of talent at Ceramicus

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Members of Ceramicus are showcasing their skills in an exhibition at the Allen Gallery this month

Following on from their highly acclaimed exhibition in the City Space Gallery, Winchester earlier this year, Ceramicus is returning to the Allen Gallery in Church Street, Alton.  

The exhibition will run from Saturday, 4th October through until Friday, 31st October. Admission is free. This year the exhibition features individual ceramic works by 10 members of the group. A fascinating range of works in clay will be on display, showcasing diverse styles, skills and techniques. Works will be available to purchase and take away.  

Ceramicus is a group of potters based in the Surrey and Hampshire area who have come together to exhibit their work.  

This talented group covers a wide range of throwing, hand building and sculpting methods with various types of clay, followed by a wide spectrum of glazing and firing techniques. These range from the ancient art of wood burning kilns with natural ash glazes and the oriental “raku” methods to traditional gas fired processes using oxygen-starved atmospheres and modern electrically heated, electronically controlled kilns with oxidising conditions. The artists each have their own technique and show their individual expression of artistic form in their work. 

For more information on Ceramicus please see their website at ceramicus.co.uk 

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Chobham Festivals enriches & entertains

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The annual community Chobham Festival brings world class classical music and other entertainment to the village from October 4th to 18th

Music, art, theatre, cultural and children’s events will delight, enrich and entertain at this year’s Chobham Festival as Jennifer Britt tells us. 

Our two classical concerts – both at St Lawrence Church – include a return visit after a long absence of the exuberant baroque ensemble, Red Priest on Tuesday 7th. If you have not seen them before, you are in for a treat. As one reviewer put it: “If the Rolling Stones played recorder, violin, cello and harpsichord and their genre was 17th-century music, they would be the band called Red Priest”. 

In contrast, the concert on 11th is a romantic era programme of works by the Norwegian Edvard Greig and the Czech Antonin Dvořák. Beautiful Nordic and Bohemian music played by the Festival Strings, an ensemble of professional musicians who perform regularly with leading orchestras and at major London and national concert venues. We also welcome as concert director Japanese violinist Tamaki Higashi, on her second visit to Chobham. 

The Jazz Evening on Saturday 4th welcomes back the fabulous Peter Rudeforth Band. Trumpeter Peter has long been a fixture on the London jazz scene, playing with the Pasadena Roof Orchestra, Palm Court Theatre Orchestra, Temperance Seven, Charleston Chasers and the Piccadilly Dance Orchestra at The Savoy. He was a member of Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen, then of the legendary Chris Barber Band.  

Our children’s slot on Sunday 12th is with Mrs H Sings. Mrs H, aka performer, writer and singer Harriette Ashcroft, and her Singalong Band entertain children of all ages, dancing and laughing are guaranteed! This event is hosted by show sponsor Coworth Flexlands School. 

The literary event brings Stephen Dick of Holybourne Rare Books, Alton, who will talk about his passion for the printed word and some of the books that have passed through his hands in From JA to JK – I am a bookseller, on Tuesday 14th. Jane Austen’s home at Chawton is just outside Stephen’s Alton base, and he has a great appreciation and knowledge of JA – along with authors of many genres, including the JK (Rowling that is). 

Returning for a fourth year is Artworks, our arts and crafts show and fair, at Chobham Village Hall and St Lawrence Church on Saturday 18th wiith an exhibition of photography by David Fettes, dancing by Chobham Morris, a flower arranging demonstration by Andy Heslop of Chobham Flower Farm, a talk on the history of Chobham Common and many local artists and makers of crafts selling their wares. 

Book tickets for all events at festival.chobham.org or by post with a cheque. Printed copies of the booking form are in St Lawrence Church, or email chobhamfestival@outlook.com for a copy. 

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Claire Davis’s journey of discovery

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Fleet author celebrated the launch of her new book last month telling of a journey in more ways than one

Braver Than You Think, Cycling to Self-Discovery, From Land’s End to John O’Groats tells the story of how, at a mid-life low point, Claire set off for Scotland, ill-prepared, unsupported and alone. 

“To this day, I find it hard to explain why I did it,” Claire admits. “But I craved space and silence, and dreamed of filling my lungs with fresh air.” 

It turned out to be a 1,200 mile journey over 26 days not only to better physical fitness and mental health, but also to empowerment and self-discovery. 

“It was such a fantastic experience that I wanted to share it with others. Firstly, I wanted people to know that cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats isn’t just for fitness freaks: if I could do it, unfit as I was, anyone could, given enough time.” 

And Claire stresses that her book isn’t just for cyclists. “I also wanted to share – particularly with women in mid-life or older – how empowering it can be to step out of your comfort zone, and how healing it can be to spend time alone in nature. 

“I learned to see myself anew, through the eyes of people who knew nothing about me. To put it another way, if people call you brave often enough, you start to believe it.” 

Braver Than You Think, Cycling to Self-Discovery, From Land’s End to John O’Groats, is available from all good bookshops and on Amazon. 

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Step out with Guildford Health Walks

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You often hear people say “autumn is my favourite season” imbued with rich vibrant colours, the temperature becomes cooler and the air fresher, perfect to join a Guildford Health Walk says volunteer Michele Roach

Guildford Health Walks are circular, range in length from an hour to 90 minutes, and with the option to choose a different walk each weekday morning, you’ll explore local areas, get outdoors, and meet new people.   

All the walks are led by trained volunteer leaders with all abilities welcome. The walking is mainly easy, although be prepared to encounter all the seasons in one day and on some walks a hill or two. All walks are conveniently located near car parks or most can be accessed by bus routes. There’s always the opportunity to join others for refreshments at the local cafe or pub afterwards. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome. 

Monday: Boxgrove GU1 2PF, meet at 9.45am for 10am start next to Peacocks Greengrocer, Boxgrove shops, Cunningham Avenue. Parking along the neighbouring roads or Bus 23. Length: 60 to 90 minutes. A different walk for each Monday of the month. Shorter walk option, contact for more information. Explore Riverside park, Merrow Downs, Pewley Down, Stoke Park. Email: Boxgrove@guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk 

Tuesday: Worplesdon GU3 3RY, meet at 10.30am for 10.45am start in car park at Worplesdon Place hotel. Use car park or take Bus 28. Length: 60 minutes. Explore Whitmoor Common, Perry Hill, St. Mary’s Church, and the Merrist Wood campus. Email: Worplesdon@guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk 

Wednesday: Shalford GU4 8BU, meet at 9.45am for 10am start in the overflow car park behind Seahorse Inn. Use car park or take Bus 32. Length: 60 to 90 minutes. Explore River Wey, Shalford Park, Shalford Mill, lower Chantries. Email: Shalford@guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk 

Thursday: Shere GU5 9HE, meet at 10 am for 10.15am start behind Shere Village Hall, Recreation Road car park, Upper Street. Use car park, or park along surrounding streets or take bus 25 or 32.  Length 60-80 minutes. Explore Shere, the Tillingbourne, and the surrounding woodlands. Email: Shere@guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk 

Friday: Whitmoor GU3 3RN, meet at 10.45am for 11am start in the car park at The Jolly Farmer pub, Burdenshott Road. Length: 60 minutes. Explore Whitmoor Common, and the surrounding woodlands. Email: Whitmoor@guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk 

So come along and join one or more of GHWs walks and begin to reap the many rewards. For further information please visit: Guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk or email: enquiries@guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk or call Andy on 07982 908036. 

Guildford Health Walks are always looking for volunteers. If you love helping others and walking in the outdoors then volunteering for Guildford Health Walks could be perfect for you. For more information email volunteers@ guildfordhealthwalks.org.uk 

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Private Aye! Middlethorpe Hall & Spa 

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Yorkshire has a reputation for doing things proper… and Liz Nicholls is proper chuffed by her time at Middlethorpe Hall and Spa 

Yorkshire, eh? Where the tea’s strong, the opinions stronger, and the mighty portions offer plenty to write home about. This is God’s Own County – home to ancient abbeys and magnificent moors, and green fields spread beneath wide open skies like nature’s patchwork quilt.  

And there can be no better sanctuary for a rejuvenating staycation than Middlethorpe Hall & Spa. Built in 1699 and now owned by the National Trust, guest are in superbly capable hands at this country house hotel that oozes elegance. The pleasingly symmetrical Middlethorpe Hall is part of a trio of Historic House Hotels (along with Hartwell House in Bucks and Bodysgallen Hall in north Wales). There’s nothing like making a grand entrance and entering Middlethorpe, supervised by a proud stone eagle (the crest of the Barlow family) certainly makes you feel you’ve arrived in grand style. You can’t help but be bowled over by Sir Christopher Wren’s influence here, especially his Hampton Court, also of the 1690s. 

This William III masterpiece sits within 20 acres of sweeping lawns, woodland, lakeside paths, and a walled garden. Inspired by pioneering landscape designer Fanny Wilkinson, a wander through the “garden rooms,” with fragrant herb beds, espaliered fruit trees, and wildflower meadows is inspiring. A lakeside stroll through the woodland and haha reveals glimpses of deer, floral borders full of roses, and lawns so immaculate they could host a game of croquet.  

This wonderland hosts regular garden highlights for visitors, and is testament to the hard graft of the gardening team who also collaborate with award-winning head chef Ashley Binder (a born-and-bred Yorkshireman, naturally) to grow produce for the restaurant. 

Which brings us to the food — a crown jewel that makes Middlethorpe a destination in its own right. Dining here is a culinary celebration rooted in Yorkshire tradition but turbo-boosted into the culinary stratosphere by fine-dining flair. Twice named Restaurant of the Year, Middlethorpe’s restaurant holds two AA Rosettes and comprises two enchanting spaces: The Oak Room and The Pineapple Room (celebrating that symbol of wealth which is the Historic Hotels’ logo), both wood-panelled, candlelit in the evening, and overlooking those verdant lawnscapes. The food must do a lot to live up to its setting… and it does not disappoint. The menus are a work of art in themselves and the resulting dishes, showing off the locally sourced ingredients, are edible love letters to the county, and the seasons. This is mindfulness at its most delicious! The walled garden produces herbs, apples, peaches, plums and more which sing on the plate. We are still salivating, three weeks later, over the magnificent halibut with brown shrimp. Fellow foodies can return again and again to enjoy dishes such as pork with Earl Grey prunes (yes, really, and it works) and desserts which will knock your socks off, such as rhubarb tart with beurre noisette, especially with paired wines. If you’re feeling fancy or have an occasion worth toasting in epic style, put yourself in the hands of the kitchen team and go for the eight-course tasting menu (about £105pp) for an unforgettable feast. 

Another treat worth travelling for? Afternoon tea. The legacy of master pastry chef Paul Harrison, who recently hung up his apron after an incredible 40 years, lives on in every exquisite tier. Afternoon tea is served in Middlethorpe’s elegant parlours, where the atmosphere is calm and unhurried: think candy-striped chaises, crisp white linens and the gentle chime of fine china. Unwind with a pot of freshly brewed loose-leaf tea (or perhaps a glass of Champagne) before the main event arrives: a silver stand of delicacies fit for a queen. You’d be very hard pushed to find finer finger sandwiches, and the warm, buttery scones are (whisper it) even better than my grandmother’s. The top tier is a feast for the eyes: dainty patisserie, from glossy fruit tartlets to miniature éclairs and elegant slices of sponge. You can tell that everything has been freshly prepared in the kitchen, with the same emphasis on seasonality and craftsmanship.  

After all that indulgence, a stroll around the grounds is a must — but even better is booking in for the night, not least because booking an overnight stay means you can enjoy the breakfast of champions. We stayed in one of the charming courtyard suites, a dainty stroll from the main house, a heavenly home from home in the same sugary hues as the cakes in the parlour. As you’d expect from a National Trust beauty of this calibre, every guest will feel pampered in any one of the rooms, with the comfiest beds imaginable. The small details did not go unnoticed, either – fresh flowers, a writing desk that would befit Jane Austen, two bathrooms, two tellies: surely a recipe for marital bliss? There’s even a spa, with a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and treatments to leave you glowing head to toe.  

Sign up to the newsletter for events and deals and book a dreamy escape because you’re worth it! We’re already planning our return trip. 

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Smile with Happy Face Yoga

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Transform your wellbeing, one smile at a time at Burpham Yurt

Hidden in a garden not far from Sainsburys in Burpham, is the Burpham Yurt, a boutique space offering sanctuary in the suburbs with weekly yoga classes, monthly sound baths, breathwork and more. 

The ever-popular Happy Face Yoga is returning — a gentle, uplifting practice designed to rejuvenate your facial muscles, enhance your natural radiance, and foster a genuine sense of wellbeing. 

Happy Face Yoga is much more than a series of exercises; it is a celebration of self-care and positive energy through restorative yoga, face exercises, self- care habits and face massage. Perfect for those looking to try something new or to deepen their self-love journey.  

Curious? Join the 2-hour workshops, where you’ll be guided through interactive routines, mindfulness techniques, and face massage designed to reduce tension and leave you glowing inside and out.  

Committed? For those ready to embrace a deeper transformation, the 4-week course immerses you in the full spectrum of Happy Face Yoga benefits. Over four sessions, you’ll learn targeted exercises to lift, tone, and relax your face, while cultivating a sustainable practice you can incorporate into everyday life.  

The next workshops take place on Friday, 26th September and Friday, 30th January between 7pm & 9pm. 

The next 4-week course runs on Sundays starting on October 5th between 3pm & 5pm. 

For more information visit happyfaceyoga.uk  

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Cancer patients bags of hope

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Local charity Giving Bags of Hope is providing handcrafted pouches free to cancer patients

Sew much love goes into the luxurious and practical pouches given to support and comfort patients undergoing cancer treatment. 

The bags are sewn by volunteers using donated fabric. Every care plan is different so the bags are empty initially and filled by the patient with the essentials required to make their treatment day more comfortable.  

Giving Bags of Hope has recently gifted the adorable pouches to 300 local cancer patients in a week made possible through the support of their partners in the cancer care treatment centres, their outlets, talented sewing volunteers, and all those who have donated fabrics.“Every pouch carries a message of care,” said Carol Anne, co-founder of Giving Bags of Hope. “They’re not just practical – they’re also a reminder to patients they are not on this difficult journey alone.” 

Co-founder Lindsey added: “We gifted our first bag to a cancer patient in October 2024 and in the last 10 months we have been building a network of sewists, volunteers and ambassadors as well as a number of retail outlets to act as collection and distribution points throughout Thames Valley and we are delighted to have delivered over 950 through our partners and Cancer Treatment Centres.” 

Bags of Hope are available from Craft Coop in Camberley & Windsor, Artisans Handmade in Newbury and Blue Beetle Ceramics Studio in Thatcham and at hospitals including Wexham Park, Slough, Frimley Park, Camberley, Heatherwood, Ascot; Genesis Care in Windsor, Princess Margaret Hospital in Windsor, Royal Berks in Reading and Newbury Cancer Care. 

To keep up with requests for bags, they are now fundraising to purchase additional embroidery and sewing machines. Please visit Go Fund Me – Giving Bags Of Hope and find out more at GivingBagsOfHope.com 

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Breast cancer survivor’s charity artwork exhibition

Round & About

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Round & About

Thatcham artist Sue Lee’s one month residency will raise funds for Newbury Cancer Care

Sue Lee rediscovered her passion for painting during her battle with breast cancer and now has a one-month residency at Howarth’s Gallery in Newbury, starting on Monday 15th September.

Every single penny from sales will go directly to Newbury Cancer Care, a charity providing practical support to local people living with cancer and life-threatening illnesses.

Sue was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer after a routine check that she was invited to earlier than normal; while she could have put it off for another month or two, she decided to go ahead and book in to get it out of the way. The diagnosis was shattering, and being an aggressive type of breast cancer, she received equally aggressive treatment, but she was incredibly thankful that she had found out early – and for the care she received.

It was during Sue’s treatment that she began painting again, creating vibrant hand-drawn, handpainted, mandala-style pieces inspired by nature and different cultures. It was a creative escape from the mental and physical toll of the illness, but also the chemotherapy.

Sue said: “I’ve always been drawn to bright colours – whether it’s in clothing, home décor, my nails, or hair accessories – I had lots of different coloured headscarves during my chemo journey.

“When I started painting, I used those colours deliberately. They lifted me when I was at my lowest, and I wanted to create work that could do the same for others. These pieces are about bringing joy and brightness into your home, even when life feels dark and heavy.”

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in the UK, with nearly 56,000 people diagnosed each year and around one in two patients reporting anxiety or depression during treatment. Local services like Newbury Cancer Care play a vital role, offering free hospital transport for patients across West Berkshire, also helping with counselling, complementary therapies, coffee mornings for escapism, and respite care for families –

Claire Howarth, fellow artist, and the owner of Howarth’s Gallery, added: “Sue’s work is bold, intricate and full of joy. It’s incredibly moving to see how her journey with cancer has been transformed into something so positive. We are very proud to host her first residency and to help raise funds for a cause that touches so many families locally – bigger charities are doing fantastic work, but we should never forget the smaller ones who are grafting at ground-level.”

Pieces will be available from £45, with all proceeds donated to Newbury Cancer Care. The gallery will be open from 10am–2pm Monday to Thursday, and 10am–1pm Friday to view and purchase the art. Visits outside of these hours can be arranged by contacting Claire Howarth at: claire@howarthsgallery.co.uk

Digital viewings can also be facilitated, where pieces can be purchased over the phone, and shipped to another location.

For more information on Sue Lee, please visit: www.artbysuelee.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbysuelee

Howarth’s Gallery: https://www.howarthsgallery.co.uk/

Newbury Cancer Care: https://www.newburycancercare.org.uk/

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