Care Home Open Week 2026 invites you to explore and connect

Zoe Gater

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Curious about care homes? Care Home Open Week invites you to step inside and discover what’s on offer.

From Monday 15 to Sunday 21 June 2026, the annual Care Home Open Week event celebrates the warmth, care, and vibrant communities that care homes across the UK create and support.

With a special World Cup–inspired theme, the week highlights what life in a modern care home is really like, while also showcasing the rewarding career opportunities the sector offers.

Visitors step through the doors and experience the heart of care home life – they meet residents and staff, hear personal stories, and discover the activities and connections that make each home unique. It offers a first-hand look at the sense of community, kindness, and inclusivity that define today’s care settings.

The week also shines a light on innovation in social care, with homes showcasing new approaches to wellbeing and demonstrating their ongoing commitment to delivering the highest quality of life for residents.

Supporting Care Decisions

For families facing a sudden or time-sensitive decision about care, visiting during Care Home Open Week can prove especially valuable. It helps them understand what to look for in a home, what questions to ask, and how residents experience daily life.

Last year, more than 5,500 care services took part, opening their doors to local communities, businesses, and groups.

Mitesh Dhanak, Chair of the Care Home Open Week Committee and board member of Championing Social Care, said:

“Care Home Open Week is a fantastic opportunity to reposition the care sector in the public’s mind. It’s a chance to welcome people in, build trust, strengthen relationships, and show the energy, creativity and compassion that define today’s care homes.”

The week also provides an important opportunity to recognise care home teams. Homes celebrate staff achievements, highlight unsung heroes across all roles – from carers and chefs to activity coordinators – and share pride in the care they deliver every day.

Great British Care Cycle Relay

Care Home Open Week is supported by the Great British Care Cycle Relay, which takes place from 11–15 June 2026. The event brings together cycling, community spirit, and connection across five routes over five days.

The final London leg begins in Caversham and passes through Windsor, Chertsey, and Kingston before finishing in Wandsworth. The route starts and ends at care homes, with stops along the way where participants meet residents and staff and enjoy refreshments.

To find out more or sign up for the cycle ride, visit championingsocialcare.org.uk/care-home-open-week.

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Fall in love with the UK again: The rise of modern staycations

Zoe Gater

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We’re all going on a summer holiday, and more of us are going on staycations – double-decker bus optional…

I do like to be beside the seaside – and in the countryside too – and so do millions of us, with more opting for a staycation last year than hopping on a plane and going abroad.

South West England, Yorkshire, Wales and Scotland are the most popular choices with cottages, caravans and camping all enticing us to enjoy the stunning scenery, history and heritage around us, not to mention visits to the many and varied excellent local pubs and restaurants too.

Combine the comforts of home with the atmosphere of a destination break with a home from home at a holiday park. They make the ideal choice if travelling as a family, a couple, or a group of friends, they’re designed to make holidays easy, enjoyable, and packed with choice, offering plenty to entertain the whole family.

Accommodation is a big part of the appeal. Holidaymakers can choose from cosy caravans and modern lodges to luxury cabins with hot tubs, often set in scenic locations by the coast, countryside, or lakes. Many options are fully equipped with kitchens, living spaces, and outdoor seating, giving you the freedom to holiday on your own terms.

On-site facilities are another highlight. Most holiday parks feature swimming pools, restaurants, entertainment venues, and play areas, so there’s always something to do without leaving the park.

For families, kids’ clubs and organised activities keep younger guests engaged, while adults can enjoy live shows, fitness facilities, or simply unwind.

Holiday parks also offer a strong sense of community and convenience. Everything you need is usually within walking distance, from shops to dining options, creating a safe and social environment. At the same time, you have the flexibility to explore the surrounding area, whether that’s beaches, walking trails, or local attractions.

Holidaying this way allows you to strike a balance between activity and relaxation – giving you the freedom to do as much or as little as you like, all in one place.

With the increase of flexible working, pet-friendly accommodation, and with a nod to more mindful travel, staycations are here to stay and are better than ever and if holidaying without airport queues, luggage allowances and keeping an eye on your carbon footprint strike a chord then staycationing is the way to go.

Discover the hidden gems this country has to offer from cosy countryside escapes to indulgent spa days and vibrant local dining, a staycation lets you experience all manner of delights and fall in love all over again with favourite childhood destinations.

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Star Q&A: Racing legend, Nigel Mansell

Zoe Gater

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We share a chat with racing legend Nigel Mansell who is staying at The Pop-Up Hotel which has returned to Silverstone in time for summer.

Hi Nigel! What’s your favourite corner at Silverstone?

Becketts is pretty awesome, but then so is Stowe. The old Stowe – the new Stowe is not as challenging.

And your favourite Silverstone memory?

Winning… oh no, there’s a few of them! 1992, when I won the championship.

What are you doing here at the Pop-up?

The hotel is bringing something genuinely different to Silverstone, and I’m looking forward to staying. To have that level of comfort and hospitality right inside the circuit, with great food, a relaxed atmosphere and everything taken care of across a race weekend allows you to enjoy the event in a different way.

Apart from the British event, what Grand Prix is your top race to attend?

Difficult one. Without even thinking about it, I do have a soft spot for Hungary. I always used to have my birthday there, and I won the Grand Prix and finished the World Championship there.

What would you change about the Monaco track to make it better from a fan’s perspective?

I wouldn’t change too much. You’ve got what you’ve got at Monaco. They’ve made it much safer. You could possibly – somehow, I’m not sure – make it a bit wider in places for more overtaking opportunities, because there’s hardly any. But Monaco is all about qualifying, and everybody knows that. If you do a great job in qualifying and your car is reliable, then you should be able to win.

What country that doesn’t have an F1 race do you think would be great?

New Zealand’s too small… Thailand would be good. Singapore has a fantastic race. Probably a few others.

Does Lewis Hamilton have one more championship in him?

Well, yes – no question.

What would be on your playlist if you could listen to music while driving an F1 car, what would be on your playlist?

Queen.

Do you drive an electric car?

No – I don’t think fully electric is sensible. Hybrid is totally different – half and half is fantastic, recharging energy as you go along. Hybrid is smart.

Who’s your favourite person from your F1 career?

There’s only one – my dear wife.

If you could have your career again, would you race now, in your era, or another era?

That’s a difficult one. But to have twice the capability of doing the job you love, for twice the number of years and not getting injuries – now is a special time to race.

If you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?

Peace, tranquillity… try to think the best of people and get rid of disharmony. Just get rid of conflict. I don’t understand why we have to repeat history.

We don’t have to have conflicts – negotiate before there’s any conflict at all. But peace and harmony.

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Win! A foodie stay for two at The Kings Head in Cirencester

Zoe Gater

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You could win a two-night midweek foodie stay for two at The Kings Head in Cirencester – here’s why it will leave you feeling majestic!

“What have the Romans ever done for us?” As it happens, quite a lot, especially if you find yourself descending into the vaulted cellars at The Kings Head.

Set right on the historic market square in Cirencester, this 14th-century coaching inn is a masterclass in old-meets-new.

There’s heritage at every turn – Roman vaults, Georgian grandeur more exciting than any Bridgerton bodice-ripper, medieval bones – but it’s all been brought bang up to date with a stylish, characterful redesign that never tips into try-hard.

What really makes it, though, is the atmosphere. The place is vibey. On a recent stay, the bar was alive with chatter: dogs snoozing happily under tables, couples lingering over wine, and young children in glittery dresses bopping along to live music. It’s that sweet spot of feeling both elevated and entirely at ease.

And then there’s the food. Head chef Mathew Peter (formerly of The Frogmill) is firmly focused on seasonal, locally sourced produce – and it shows. I settled into the gorgeous brasserie (after a couple of golden ales) and the wild mushrooms on sourdough toast arrived piled high and deeply savoury, the kind of dish that feels simple but delivers big, earthy flavour. A generously portioned fish pie followed – comforting, rich and exactly what you want from a classic done properly.

Across the table, my carnivore boyfriend went all in on the short rib. “Melt-in-the-mouth and pink,” promised our server – and it absolutely delivered. It’s that attention to detail, paired with genuinely warm, knowledgeable service, that elevates the whole experience.

Upstairs, 64 individually styled rooms (many dog-friendly) offer a calm retreat from the buzz below, while outside, you’re perfectly placed to explore. Wander past St John the Baptist Church (we watched a choral concert through the keyhole), dip into independent gems such as Witches Knickers, or simply soak up the rhythm of this impossibly pretty Cotswolds town.

Beautiful, bustling and brilliantly welcoming, The Kings Head is the kind of place you check into – and immediately start plotting your return.

The best part? You could experience it all for yourself.

One lucky reader will win a two-night midweek bed and breakfast stay for two, including a superior room and a three-course dinner with a bottle of house wine on one evening.

How to enter

To enter our prize draw, fill in the form below before 12pm on Friday 12 June 2026.

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Where to find more prizes?

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Get your garden match ready for the ultimate summer of sport

Zoe Gater

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From BBQs and outdoor bars to cosy seating and weatherproof shelters, discover how to turn your garden into the perfect space for al fresco dining and summer entertaining as football fever takes over.

It’s coming home, it’s coming home… the World Cup kicks off on Thursday 11 June 2026 and whether it comes home or not, there will be plenty who will celebrate or commiserate in their gardens. Is yours worthy of winning the coveted trophy or more of an own goal?

As the World Cup lights up summer, make sure your garden is ready for whatever highs and lows it brings with friends and family round to lead the cheers.

Gardens can be games of two halves as football matches can – you need somewhere to relax and put your feet up and somewhere for that all-important get together over food as you clink glasses.
Al fresco dining isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience.

The smell of fresh dishes mingling with a gentle breeze, the plink plink of ice cubes splashing into glasses cheers-ed together alongside laughter that lingers long after the sun goes down. Whether it’s a relaxed brunch in a sunlit courtyard or a candlelit dinner beneath the stars, everything tastes better outdoors.

Flavours are savoured and taste buds sharpened, there’s something so very special about cooking outside.

BBQs have come a long way from the iconic charcoal kettle-style to gas powered and brick built ones to today’s bouji outdoor kitchens that are designed to impress (and make your culinary skills do the same), or perhaps pizza’s your thing and you like to mix and match your toppings and have your unique family favourite?

True al fresco fans will have constructed their own bar and perhaps already put up that TV ready to settle in front of the match – think about the variable British weather with this.

A shelter or shade of some sort is a must. Shades, sails and awnings have become popular in recent years to add a stylish touch and are the ideal way to protect you from a shower and also to ward off excess heat, fingers crossed.

Depending on your home and garden, perhaps a pergola, gazebo or lean-to is a more permanent option?

If it’s going to be a late night, you’ll need lighting to keep the party going – solar power is a popular choice, strings of fairy lights, wall lighting or spotlights in your decking, and you’re ready to party into the early hours.

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Why classic cars remain timeless icons of style and driving passion

Zoe Gater

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Think of a classic car and you think of a pure driving experience, effortless style, nostalgia and the wind whipping through your hair…

Like good music and fine wines, classic cars age well, evoke emotions and are timeless in their appeal and are why you’ll see thousands gathering at meets and rallies over the summer months to drool over the sleek lines and stylish features.

A classic is defined as “something of the highest quality that serves as a standard or model for others”.

More than just old vehicles to be admired by young children and dreamed of by older enthusiasts, they are celebrated as machines with a soul, offering a connection to the past and stirring memories of a time when cars were still a luxury and oozed historical significance rather than being today’s necessity as a means of getting from A to B.

This sense of nostalgia and “harking back to yesteryear” are the enduring lure for many.

Gareth Williams is part of the team working on Hart Classics, a classic car and motorcycle show at Hartley Wintney on Sunday, 21st June. He believes classic cars reflect changing design and style influences through time.

“Like good music, certain car designs age well, bring about certain emotions and become timeless classics. The Porsche 911 is a classic case in point – while the latest iteration is a completely different car from the original classic, the design still bears a strong resemblance and has been iterated sympathetically through time.

“I’ve always loved cars and at a younger age I was in awe visiting motor shows with my dad, reading car magazines/books and even playing Sports Car Top Trumps with my brothers. I always thought that one day, should the opportunity arise to own one of these previously unobtainable cars, I would like to.”

He is “lucky enough” to own a 1988 Porsche 911 Carrera – known as the G series, impact bumper model – “it is a joy to own”. Some of his fellow organisers of Hart Classics are huge Jaguar and Lotus enthusiasts. All will be on display at the event where owners will be happy to share their love and what drives the attraction of owning one.

“One driver’s attraction to VW Beetles is another’s attraction to Ferraris,” explains Gareth. “For some, classic cars have proven to be an attractive long-term investment, driven by rising demand and limited supply; but like all investments, the value can rise and fall. I prefer to focus on driving them and enjoying the experience.

“It puts a smile on your face. The driving experience is more raw, more analogue than today’s modern cars, which makes driving them a more involved, enjoyable experience. I always find I’m ‘waved out’ at junctions in my classic car, which says a lot; fellow drivers appreciate seeing them on the road and are intrigued.”

The appeal is down to the driving experience for Mark Perkins who is CEO of Historics Auctioneers which has recently unveiled a new £5m HQ in Lyndhurst Road, Ascot.

“The wonderful thing about classic cars is everyone is bonded by the passion of ownership, no matter their age and the depth of their pockets, with values of classic cars ranging from a few thousands of pounds to many millions.

“In this comparatively sanitised motoring world of new cars, those of yesteryear get a big thumbs up for their diversity, the driving enjoyment at the wheel and as a passenger, plus, for many, the ability to tinker with their pride and joy.”

In recent years he’s seen major growth in “modern classics”, cars of the 1980s, ’90s and 2000s, adding that collecting is not purely the preserve of the “more mature enthusiasts”.

He says: “These tend to attract a younger age group of buyers, which will continue to swell the ranks of classic cars on the road. Not surprisingly, the interest in ownership is championed by thousands of UK clubs representing the interests of owners of individual car makes and models – the social aspects of classic car ownership cannot be over-estimated!”

A typical Historics auction showcases cars close to a century in age up to a relatively young 40, spanning differing marques.

If this whets your appetite, Historics’ summer auction is at the rural setting of Windsorview Lakes in Datchet on 18th July, just minutes from Junction 5, M4. Visit historics.co.uk

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Designed for life

Zoe Gater

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Beautiful living spaces created with care and pride by Ben Heath Furniture Makers.

Making beautiful bespoke furniture to suit you, your home and your life is at the heart of everything Ben Heath Furniture Makers do.

The small, family-run company is wholeheartedly dedicated to crafting high-quality, stunning living spaces with quality, attention to detail and exceptional service at the core.

With over 25 years of valuable experience, they take great pride in creating one-off, elegant handmade furniture and interiors that consistently bring lasting pleasure and satisfaction to their clients.

Designers will guide clients through the whole process, visiting their home to offer expert advice to ensure the finished product fits sympathetically into their life, enhancing their home. Mood boards are employed to include materials and colours to help clients visualise the end product. Each piece blends timeless style with practical use.

Combining the skills and experience of the team of five cabinet makers in wood craftsmanship, each piece is created blending traditional techniques and quality materials with long lasting durability. Furniture is meticulously crafted with style and aesthetics in mind so you can be assured of precision and care at every stage of the process.

All furniture is individual, carefully produced and meticulously crafted in Hungerford and installed by their own expert installation team to guarantee it fits perfectly into the room for which it was designed, combining functionality with elegance.

At the heart of Ben Heath Furniture Makers is exceptional quality, precise craftsmanship, and outstanding customer service which all combine to guarantee free standing and fitted furniture for bedrooms, utility rooms, under stairs and kitchens of which they are proud and which customers will treasure for years to come.

Find out more at benheath.com or call 07788 360 580 / 01488 684444 to start your journey to a beautiful living space.

In partnership with Ben Heath Furniture Makers

With more than 25 years of experience, Ben Heath Furniture Makers is a family-run company specialising in the creation of beautifully crafted, high-quality living spaces across Newbury, Hampshire, Wiltshire, and the surrounding areas.

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7 of the best independent bookshops to visit in Buckinghamshire

Zoe Gater

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Zoe Gater

In an era of algorithm-driven recommendations and endless online scrolling, there’s still something unbeatable about finding your next favourite read because somebody behind a counter loved it enough to put it face-out on a shelf.

From beautifully curated market-town indies to hidden second-hand gems tucked away in the Chilterns, Buckinghamshire’s bookshop scene is one to be admired.

Whether you’re hunting for your next literary obsession, a thoughtful gift or simply somewhere to spend a rainy afternoon, these seven shops are worth knowing about.

The Marlow Bookshop

Sitting among Marlow’s boutiques and cafes, The Marlow Bookshop is a much-loved indie spot that mixes bestseller appeal and unique titles.

Inside, expect carefully styled front tables, excellent children’s selections, and staff recommendations that may result in an extra purchase you didn’t plan on making… Its author events are some of the strongest in the county too, regularly bringing big literary names to Buckinghamshire.

The Snug Bookshop, Olney

Tiny, welcoming and incredibly charming, The Snug Bookshop in Olney has become one of Buckinghamshire’s most beloved literary spaces. If your ideal bookshop involves cosy corners and discovering books you didn’t know you needed, this is the one.

Originally known for its brilliant children’s offerings, the shop has evolved into a community-focused indie, packed with thoughtful fiction and beautiful gifts. Expect handwritten staff picks and events bringing local readers together throughout the year.

Real Magic Books, Wendover

Beautifully curated and refreshingly modern, Real Magic Books in Wendover specialises in contemporary fiction, memoir, politics, nature writing and children’s books. It’s the sort of place where you walk in for one title and leave with a reading list for the next six months (not that we’re complaining!).

The events programme is growing quickly too, helping establish it as one of Buckinghamshire’s most exciting newer independents.

The Buckingham Bookshop

The Buckingham Bookshop offers a broad, thoughtfully selected range of books spanning fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children’s titles.

It’s known for its hands-on approach to recommending books and its willingness to help readers discover something new – including its ‘blind date with a book’ style selections that encourage stepping outside familiar genres. The shop also supports reading communities through events and book-related activities.

Crocus Books and Gifts, Gerrards Cross

Part bookshop, part lifestyle destination, family-owned Crocus Books and Gifts blends contemporary reads with stationery, gifts and beautifully presented displays that make it dangerously easy to ‘just pop in’.

The team is passionate about literature and creativity – always eager to share recommendations and insights to help you find exactly what you need. They offer a range of books for all ages, from children’s books that spark the imagination to classic literature that inspires. It also hosts community events such as book clubs and author-focused gatherings.

​Chapter Two Community Bookshop, Chesham

A true hidden gem, Chapter Two Bookshop is a much-loved second-hand bookshop with a strong community focus.

Its shelves are deliberately eclectic, offering everything from well-loved paperbacks to unexpected finds that reward a bit of browsing patience. All proceeds support The Hospice of St Francis, giving every purchase an added sense of purpose beyond the page.

Chorleywood Bookshop

A long-standing independent on the edge of the Chilterns, the award-winning Chorleywood Bookshop has been a local fixture since the 1970s. Carefully chosen front tables and handwritten staff picks make browsing feel personal, whether you’re after a bestseller or something a little more unexpected.

Beyond the shelves, it’s known for its strong community presence, hosting regular author events and supporting local schools and readers.

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Paws at The Lexicon promises tail-wagging family fun this May half-term

Zoe Gater

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From Bluey appearances and agility courses to face painting and family trails, The Lexicon is hosting a brand-new dog-themed half-term event in Bracknell this May – with free activities and fundraising for Guide Dogs.

From agility courses and face painting to a special appearance from Bluey, Bracknell’s The Lexicon is going dog-friendly this May half-term with a brand-new event celebrating all things canine – while raising money for Guide Dogs.

Families, dog lovers and four-legged friends are invited to enjoy ‘Paws at The Lexicon’, taking place from Friday 22 May to Monday 1 June 2026, with a packed programme of free activities and interactive experiences across the town centre.

Supporting locally based charity Guide Dogs, the event will transform The Lexicon into a canine celebration, with a mix of dog-friendly experiences and themed activities designed for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights includes a Dog Agility Course in Union Square, opposite Boots, running from Tuesday 26 to Friday 29 May. Dogs taking part will receive treats and rosettes, while a special soft toy-only session on Friday 29 May gives younger children the chance to join in the fun too.

Children will also have the opportunity to meet much-loved character Bluey in Princess Square on Saturday 30 May, appearing at intervals throughout the day.

Elsewhere across the week, visitors can enjoy a dog caricature artist creating personalised keepsakes on Tuesday 26 May, followed by craft sessions and storytelling in Princess Square on Wednesday 27 May.

Face painting will be available on Thursday 28 and Friday 29 May in The Avenue, before moving to Princess Square on Saturday 30 May. Visitors will also have the chance to meet Guide Dogs volunteers and their four-legged companions on Saturday 30 May.

All activities will take place between 11am and 4pm.

There will also be plenty of opportunities for families to get involved throughout the half-term, including a free interactive trail encouraging children to spot pups hidden in shop windows, complete a trail leaflet and enter for the chance to win prizes.

Visitors can also take part in the ‘Snap, Tag & Share’ competition by posting photos of their dogs during their visit and tagging The Lexicon and MIL Pet Photography online, with one winner receiving a dog photography experience and wall art worth £200.

Adding to the celebrations, The Lexicon Express will be running throughout the event with a special limited-edition sticker available for visitors.

Sue Boor, Head of Marketing at The Lexicon, said: “As a dog-friendly town centre, with well-behaved dogs welcome in over 70 of our stores, we’re delighted to introduce Paws at The Lexicon for the first time this May half-term.

“It’s exciting to trial a new type of event for us, bringing together families and dog lovers for a fun-filled half-term.”

For more information, visit thelexiconbracknell.com/events/paws-at-the-lexicon.

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Three Counties Cycle Ride 2026 returns to Bracknell this June

Zoe Gater

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Cyclists of all ages and abilities are being encouraged to sign up for the 43rd Three Counties Cycle Ride this June, with routes through Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire helping raise money for good causes.

Hundreds of cyclists will take part in the annual Three Counties Cycle Ride on Sunday 7 June 2026, as organisers finalise preparations for the long-running charity event.

Now in its 43rd year, the charity bike ride gives cyclists the choice of 15, 34 and 52-mile routes through the Berkshire countryside, with parts of the courses extending into Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities will start and finish at Garth Hill College, while organisers have already put marshals, drink stations and route signage in place ahead of the event.

Since launching in 1983, the Three Counties Cycle Ride has generated well over £1 million for local charities and community causes, with more than 200 cyclists already signing up for this year’s event.

Amanda, Community Champion at Tesco North and one of the event’s supporters, praised the ride after taking part last year while fundraising for the British Heart Foundation.

She said: “It was a great day. Thanks to all the people involved in organising the ride. This year, I cycled for British Heart Foundation and with the help of my supporters raised over £2,000.”

The Ride Angels team from Bia Cycling Club will once again ride all three routes to support cyclists throughout the day.

Adults can register online in advance for £20 or pay £25 on the day, while accompanied under-18s can take part for £1.

Organisers also encourage non-riders to volunteer as marshals or registration helpers, with donations going to their chosen charities.

Bracknell Cycle Festival returns after the ride

After completing the ride, cyclists and supporters can head to the Bracknell Cycle Festival in Bond Square next to The Lexicon.

Avanti Cycling is organising the free festival in partnership with Trek Bicycle Bracknell and Bracknell Forest Council. The event will run from 11am to 4pm and include BMX stunt displays, obstacle courses, cycling stalls and family-friendly activities.

Visitors can also meet teams from Thames Valley Police and Thames Valley Air Ambulance, while organisers will donate profits from this year’s ride to the air ambulance charity.

How to register for the Three Counties Cycle Ride

People can register and find more information through the 3CCR official website, while the Bracknell Cycle Festival website includes festival details.

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