New or used? How to choose the right car for your needs

Zoe Gater

From setting a realistic budget to deciding between petrol, hybrid and electric power, here are the key factors to consider before buying your next car.


Time to change your car? Whether you’re opting for new or used it can be a minefield and with the choices of petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid where do you start?

It may sound obvious but know your budget – in addition to monthly payments, check out insurance and road tax costs, running costs, and any MOT that may be needed.

If you need a car that’s suitable for the school run and a dog don’t let your head be turned by a racy looking convertible. Is there enough boot capacity for all your holiday luggage? Where will you be doing the majority of your driving – towns, cities or in the country? Is manual or automatic better for your needs and that’s before you start looking at fuel vs electric options.

Electric cars are more expensive to buy however offer lower running costs, road tax and reduced emissions while petrol vehicles provide longer range and have an established refuelling infrastructure
If you have a good idea what you’re after then research the make and model, seek out any common problems or gripes of current owners. How reliable is it?

Got your eye on a shiny new one sitting on the forecourt at your local dealership? Make sure you ask about warranty length, servicing packages, delivery time, finance and pick the dealer’s brain – they’ll have untold amounts of knowledge that will help you make the right choice.

Opting for a used car means you can often find a great deal, check the service history, mileage, number of previous owners, MOT history, tyres, brakes and bodywork – buying from a recognised used car dealer will give you peace of mind with all these and the chance to ask any questions and quell any doubts.

Always take whichever you choose for a test drive – it’s the only way to really get a feel for the car to see if it’s the one for you. Aside from the actual driving, does it feel comfortable, does it feel like your car?

Once you’ve decided on the right one for you, read the paperwork carefully, don’t feel pushed into anything. If needs be go back and have another look on a separate occasion before setting out on the open road.

Essential car maintenance checks for safe summer driving

Zoe Gater

Regular servicing and simple monthly checks can help keep your vehicle safe, reliable and ready for summer journeys, while reducing the risk of costly breakdowns.


Whatever age your car there are times when it will need some TLC and regular maintenance is crucial for safety and performance.

Checks should be carried out monthly for tyre pressure, lights, oil and washer fluid levels. Every six months or 6,000 miles (whichever comes first) you should get an interim service with basic checks being carried out, oil/filter changes. Every 12 months (or 12,000 miles) a full service is needed to check the engine oil, filter, air filter and brakes.

Key components:

– Tyres: Check for tread depth and pressure to maintain safety.
– Brakes: Look for squeaking or reduced stopping power.
– Fluids: Regularly check and top up engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
– Battery: Inspect cables and terminals, especially before winter.

An interim service will keep your car safe and roadworthy between major services, for high mileage drivers this is particularly important while the full service will check all systems – steering, suspension, exhaust, lights and more.

With summer approaching and the likelihood of longer drives, the focus turns to preventing overheating and ensuring safety in higher temperatures.

Key tasks include checking coolant levels, inspecting tyres (pressure and tread), testing air conditioning, ensuring wiper blades are functional, and topping up engine oil to avoid damage.

Key summer maintenance:

– Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel, as start-stop traffic in summer increases consumption.
– Oil: Check oil levels; high heat makes oil thinner, reducing efficiency and increasing risk of engine damage.
– Rubber: Inspect tyres (including the spare) for pressure and tread (minimum 1.6mm in UK) to prevent blowouts. Also check wiper blades for perishing.
– Coolant: Ensure coolant is at the right level to prevent overheating. Use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water.
– Electrics: Check your battery, as heat can accelerate degradation. Clean terminals if needed.
– Screen wash: Top up your windscreen washer fluid, as dry conditions and insects increase usage.

Additional summer safe driving tips:

– Air conditioning: Check if it needs a recharge.
– Cooling system: Inspect for leaks and ensure the radiator fan works. Never open a hot radiator cap.
– Bodywork: Wash away bird droppings and tree sap immediately to avoid damaging the paint, which can set in the heat.
– Exterior lights: Ensure they are working for sudden summer storms.

Enjoy your summer driving safely!

Take part in the Big Butterfly Count this summer

Zoe Gater

Sir David Attenborough is encouraging people across the UK to spend 15 minutes counting butterflies and moths this summer, helping scientists track the health of the natural world while enjoying the wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature.


“Butterflies are vitally important. Their presence acts as a barometer of the health of our environment. Their ongoing decline tells us that all is not well in the British countryside.”

These are the words of Sir David Attenborough, president of Butterfly Conservation, who is urging wildlife lovers to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count, running from 17th July to 9th August.

The annual survey is the world’s largest citizen science project focused on butterflies and day-flying moths. By spending just 15 minutes counting insects in a garden, park, school field, balcony or countryside spot, participants can help scientists build a clearer picture of how wildlife is responding to climate change, habitat loss and changing weather patterns.

“It’s not too late to help,” says Sir David. “You can help ensure that butterflies still bring that sense of magic to our summertime by taking part in the Big Butterfly Count. The count will tell us if butterflies are recovering and let us know how they are faring in our back gardens, parks, fields, towns and cities. But more than that, the count brings us face to face with Britain’s wildlife stars living right under our noses. If you care about butterflies, make sure you take part.”

For many of us, butterflies are woven into childhood memories: peering into buddleia bushes, spotting cabbage whites in the vegetable patch or watching red admirals basking in the sunshine. Yet these delicate insects are far more than symbols of summer. They are among nature’s most important warning signs, with their fortunes closely linked to the health of the wider environment.

There’s good news for people taking part, too. Research has shown that spending time observing butterflies can improve mental wellbeing, helping to reduce anxiety and encouraging people to slow down and reconnect with nature.

“Butterflies really bring happiness and serenity when you observe them,” says artist Mel Seymour of melaniemosaics.co.uk, who has created butterfly mosaics for public spaces and care homes across the UK and beyond. “Please let some butterfly-friendly native wildflowers grow in your garden.”

Last year, more than 125,000 people took part in the Big Butterfly Count, recording a record 1.7 million butterflies and moths. The Red Admiral was the most commonly spotted species nationwide.

Across the south east, thousands of people got involved. In Berkshire, 2,190 participants recorded 26,041 butterflies and moths; Buckinghamshire saw 2,027 people record 24,654 sightings; Oxfordshire had 1,391 participants spotting 18,040 insects; Wiltshire recorded 33,913 sightings from 2,351 participants; while Surrey and Hampshire together contributed more than 128,000 sightings. In every county, the Large White was among the most frequently spotted butterflies.

Conservationists say every count matters, particularly after a year of unusual weather patterns. The combination of warm spring sunshine followed by wetter conditions may already be affecting butterfly numbers and behaviour, making this summer’s survey especially valuable.

One of the strengths of the Big Butterfly Count is its simplicity. No specialist knowledge is required and even the smallest outdoor space can become a wildlife haven. A few flower-filled pots on a balcony, a picnic in the park or a stroll along a country lane could reveal species worth recording.

Children often enjoy taking part most of all, turning the activity into a treasure hunt for peacocks, painted ladies, brimstones and other colourful visitors. Free identification charts and an easy-to-use smartphone app make it easy for beginners to get involved.

Dr Richard Fox, Head of Science at Butterfly Conservation, says: “This is a chance to turn curiosity into conservation and make a real contribution to protecting butterflies in the UK for generations to come.

“Butterflies are beautiful, yes – but they’re also incredibly important bioindicators. As they continue to disappear, as they have over recent decades, it indicates something is going seriously wrong in our natural world. We need to heed that warning and take action before it’s too late.

“If we lose butterflies, we lose more than beauty – we lose balance in our ecosystems, and that will have serious repercussions for wildlife in the UK. If you do one thing for nature this year, get out for the count this summer.”

To take part, download the free app or butterfly identification chart at bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org. You can also find local walks and conservation events at butterfly-conservation.org/events.

And if you capture any beautiful butterfly photographs along the way, don’t forget to share them and tag @roundandaboutmag on Instagram.

The ultimate family guide to summer holidays across the South East

Zoe Gater

From dinosaurs and steam trains to outdoor theatre, wildlife encounters and food festivals, here are some of the best family-friendly events, attractions and days out to enjoy this summer.


Summer is here and, with the school holidays stretching ahead, there’s no shortage of family-friendly fun to enjoy across the region. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, fascinating history, live entertainment, hands-on activities or simply a great day out in the sunshine, there’s something for every age and interest.

National Trust adventures and outdoor play

National Trust properties are once again pulling out all the stops with their popular Summer of Play programmes. At Greys Court, children can take to the stage, design their own gardens, create giant artworks and enjoy den building and mud kitchens. Basildon Park unveils its new Walled Garden play hub, packed with creative zones, fashion-themed activities and classic games with a twist.

Across Surrey and Hampshire, families can enjoy outdoor theatre, cinema screenings and themed trails at properties including Polesden Lacey, Hatchlands Park, Winkworth Arboretum, The Vyne, Mottisfont, Hinton Ampner and Uppark House, where visitors can step into the whimsical world of The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

Animals, dinosaurs and wildlife

Animal lovers are spoiled for choice this summer. Wellington Country Park hosts a prehistoric Dino Takeover from 1st-3rd August, with life-sized dinosaurs including a T. rex and Triceratops. The park’s new Big Weekender from 14th-16th August adds magic shows, storytelling, silent discos and creative workshops, while Inflatables in the Park promises giant bouncy fun over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Elsewhere, families can meet thousands of animals at Whipsnade Zoo, enjoy hands-on experiences at Kew Little Pigs, visit Beale Wildlife Park and Cotswold Wildlife Park, or spend time with rescue animals at Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary. Nature lovers can also enjoy the beautiful grounds and family trails at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens.

History, heritage and hands-on discovery

There are plenty of opportunities to step back in time this summer. Explore local treasures at Abingdon County Hall Museum, discover the world of William Morris at Kelmscott Manor, or climb aboard vintage locomotives at Didcot Railway Centre, where unlimited train rides run throughout the holidays.

Railway enthusiasts can also enjoy heritage journeys through the Chilterns on the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway, while Crofton Beam Engines celebrates its famous Steam Days in July. At Wilton Windmill, the only working windmill in Wessex, visitors can enjoy spectacular countryside views.

For living history enthusiasts, West Horsley Place recreates King Henry VIII’s visit with jousting, falconry and Tudor festivities, while Chiltern Open Air Museum hosts Viking raids, heritage crafts and family-friendly historical events. The annual Festival of Archaeology also returns to Greys Court.

Festivals, food and family entertainment

Foodies can start the summer at the Wantage International Food & Drink Festival, where international flavours, live music and free children’s activities create a lively family atmosphere.

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the hugely popular Henley Country Craft Show returns to Stonor Park, featuring more than 200 artisan stalls, demonstrations, food and family entertainment.

Festival fans can enjoy EdFest in Didcot, with live music, food and free family activities, while Hampshire’s DellFest offers a relaxed countryside vibe, excellent food and uplifting live music. Visitors can also enjoy the Great British Food Festival at West Horsley Place and the South Downs Show at Queen Elizabeth Country Park.

Theatre, music and outdoor cinema

Summer is the perfect season for outdoor entertainment. Dinton Pastures hosts open-air cinema screenings including Mamma Mia!, Dirty Dancing, Magic Mike and a Wicked sing-along.

At Waddesdon Manor, outdoor theatre returns with productions including The Tempest, The Railway Children and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Music lovers can head to Farnham Castle for a special outdoor Stevie Wonder tribute concert featuring acclaimed performers Derek Nash and Noel McCalla.

Meanwhile, Wycombe Swan presents a packed summer programme, including the touring production of High Society starring Helen George and Felicity Kendal.

Thrills, science and big days out

For adrenaline-fuelled family fun, Brooklands Museum celebrates 100 years since Britain’s first Grand Prix with its Summer of Speed, featuring interactive exhibitions, family activities and science shows.

At Guards Polo Club in Windsor, the Coronation Cup offers the chance to watch world-class polo up close, while LEGOLAND Windsor welcomes back its popular LEGO Festival, packed with brick-building challenges, live shows and favourite characters.

Science takes centre stage at Winchester Science Centre, where visitors can enjoy explosive demonstrations, meet South Downs minibeasts and journey through space in one of the UK’s largest planetariums.

For classic family days out, there’s always Longleat, with its famous safari park and attractions, or Bowood House and Gardens, where adventure playgrounds, pirate ships and beautiful grounds await.

Slow down and savour summer

If a gentler pace is more your style, enjoy a relaxing canal boat trip aboard the Rose of Hungerford, wander the beautiful gardens at Buscot Park, explore the ancient landscape of Avebury Stone Circle, or spend an afternoon beneath the big top with Giffords Circus and its new show, Waterfield.

Wherever you choose to go, this summer offers countless opportunities to explore, discover and make memories with family and friends. The only challenge may be fitting it all in.

Haslemere Fringe Festival returns with music, comedy and community spirit

Zoe Gater

With headliners Reef, Ocean Colour Scene and Ward Thomas, plus comedy stars, wellness sessions and more than 50 live acts, Haslemere Fringe Festival is set for another unforgettable weekend.


It’s nearly here! The 2026 Haslemere Fringe Festival is now just a few days away with music, comedy, dance, performance art, wellness and local food and artisans.

Alongside this year’s fabulous headliners Reef, Ocean Colour Scene and Ward Thomas, on the three nights respectively, there’s an exciting line up including the newly-added Caity Baser taking to the Main Stage on Saturday. Singer / songwriter Caity was nominated for the BRIT’s Rising Star Award, supported Olivia Rodrigo and has performed twice at the godfather of festivals Glastonbury.

They are just a handful of the more than 50 live acts showcasing a stunning array of talent across genres, from soulful acoustic sets to energetic rock and vibrant indie – truly living up to the ‘something for everyone’ tag.

Young festival goers aren’t forgotten with exciting games and rides at the funfair, engaging art activities, live performers, interactive shows, and delightful activities.

Friday night at the Fringe is comedy night hosted by popular local comedian Andy Steadman. He’ll be introducing comedy legend Bobby Davro and TV and radio favourite Bob Mills alongside Mark Simmons and up and coming new stars.

A first for this year’s festival will be Sunday morning Wellness at the Fringe from 8.30am to midday. Start your day with a dynamic line-up of sessions including revitalizing yoga flow, a high energy Dance Fit class, fun family-friendly HIIT to fire up the endorphins, deeply relaxing sound bath experiences and more – all included in the Sunday or Weekend Fringe ticket!

The not-for-profit, family-friendly festival run entirely by a fantastic volunteer network from the local community and beyond takes place every two years and this year will be supporting six local charities – Charlie’s Promise, The Haslemere Hub, Bliss, SERV, Haslewey, and I’m All Ears.

Volunteers are vital to the vibrancy and smooth running of this popular weekend event and also to keep Fringe ticket prices affordable to all. Volunteering also offers a great opportunity to meet new friends and be involved in this brilliant community event – plus you will be rewarded with free entry to the day of the festival on which you volunteer!

Volunteers are still sought to help with a variety of roles. Each shift will be three hours long and will require availability before the event to provide health and safety briefings and full details of the role requirements. You must be over 16 to volunteer.

For more information about volunteering and to sign up, and to buy tickets, please visit the website haslemerefringe.co.uk.

Seared scallops and moreish amuse-bouche at The Woodspeen

Zoe Gater

Exceptional seasonal dishes, polished service and elegant surroundings combine to make The Woodspeen near Newbury a destination well worth seeking out.


Light, airy, fresh, elegant and delightfully delicious sum up everything about The Woodspeen near Newbury and that’s before I get to the food.

Stylish and understated, The Woodspeen started life in 2013 transformed from a run-down country pub to the contemporary restaurant and cocktail bar it is today.

From the moment we walked in the laid back yet chic atmosphere was apparent as we were greeted with a cheery smile and shown to the bar area to enjoy a drink. Seated at the plush curved window seat, it seemed remiss not to begin with The Woodspeen 25 Yards Gin and Tonic, hand-crafted with botanicals just ’25 yards’ from the restaurant. The fresh citrus flavour worked a treat with a dish of large, bright green Parelloare olives.

The restaurant was buzzing with eager diners already enjoying a languorous lunch as we took our table at the picture window overlooking the spacious terrace boasting views to a recently planted arboretum. The carefully crafted Aston Martin in the garden makes an interesting additional attraction.

A lightly whipped cheesey bon bon was a very moreish amuse bouche, sadly I can’t remember the full details but take my word for it you could easily eat a plateful and still want more.

The menu showcases the best of what’s in season and in the hands of head chef Ben and his team whose skills you can watch in the open kitchen, the ingredients are brought to glorious life in innovative dishes.

Scallops always call to me and the plump perfectly seared Orkney scallops with butternut squash, spiced pork fritter and caper and raisin puree were quite simply divine. Our other starter of Cornish crab with Shellfish jelly, pickled radish, avocado and a sesame tuille was a work of art which tasted every bit as good as it looked.

Eagerly anticipating our mains we opted for Cornish sea bass, lemon roast fennel, fennel puree, chicken and hazelnut jus and sirloin steak accompanied by triple cooked chips, bitter leaf salad, peppercorn sauce. The sea bass was light, flaky and yet ‘meaty’ at the same time, while the fennel made me wonder why we don’t eat more of this anise-flavoured veg. The steak was mouth-wateringly charred to perfection and admirably matched with crisp and fluffy chips.

Continuing the light theme, the coffee cremeux with mascarpone ice cream, chocolate mousseline and hazlenut was like tucking into a deliciously-flavoured cloud and the ideal way to round off a superb five-star meal.

Hand in hand with five-star food goes five-star service and if I could give six stars all round I wouldn’t hesitate.

Find out for yourself, visit thewoodspeen.com.

Petersfield Eco Fair returns with family fun and green living inspiration

Zoe Gater

Live music, hands-on activities, sustainable shopping and practical eco advice will take centre stage as Petersfield Eco Fair returns to the Heath for its biggest celebration of environmentally friendly living yet.


Petersfield’s biennial Eco Fair is back! Now in its third iteration and growing each time, the event is a celebration of earth-friendly living.

Join in with family activities including crafts, performance and face-painting, listen and dance to live music, tuck into delicious food and drinks and discover sustainable products and fascinating stalls. Everyone is invited to this free event, organised by Petersfield Climate Action Network (PeCAN) and Petersfield Town Council.

Take a friend or the whole family to the lovely setting of Petersfield Heath and find out how, in a few simple steps, you can save money, help nature, and support our planet. Get valuable advice on home energy, and handy tips about upcycling.

Benefit from practical nature-friendly gardening guidance to invite wildlife back to our gardens and increase biodiversity for our children and grandchildren. Purchase bird boxes, bug hotels and other goodies from Petersfield Men’s Shed on the day.

Want to find out more about getting out and about on your bike in and around Petersfield? Go along and meet community groups to find out what’s happening locally and bring your bike for a free health check and security marking.

You will be able to purchase planet-friendly goodies from local makers, and there will be a plethora of creative and crafty activities to get involved with – from making finger puppets to creating a dead hedge. Children can also enjoy an eco-tips treasure hunt, and grown-ups are invited to make a pledge and enter a prize draw to win a gift hamper! There will be something to interest and entertain everyone.

Visitors are encouraged to minimise waste on the day by bringing their own reusable cups and bottles for drinks. The event will be run using batteries charged by renewable energy, and bike racks will be available. Everyone is welcome – and if you can walk, cycle or use public transport to get there that’s even better!

Full list of stallholders at PeCAN’s website: petersfieldcan.org/projects/eco-fair/petersfield-eco-fair-2026 and find out more on Instagram @petersfield_can & Facebook @PetersfieldClimateActionNetwork.

Oxford youth music project receives £7,000 police funding to help young people at risk

Zoe Gater

Oxford youth music organisation In-Spire Sounds has secured £7,000 from Thames Valley Police to expand support for young people at risk of exploitation, as it celebrates a new education accreditation and the release of a debut mixtape.


An Oxford-based youth music organisation has secured £7,000 from Thames Valley Police to expand its work supporting young people at risk of exploitation, violence and exclusion from education – with participants already showcasing their talents on a newly released mixtape.

In-Spire Sounds CIC, which operates from professional recording studios on Park End Street, will use the funding to deliver targeted music programmes across Oxfordshire, helping young people build confidence, develop skills and access mentoring before they reach crisis point.

The grant supports the organisation’s preventative approach, using music production, songwriting and creative mentoring to re-engage young people who face barriers in mainstream education or are vulnerable to criminal exploitation.

The funding comes as In-Spire celebrates a major milestone, having recently become an accredited Alternative Education Provider. The accreditation enables young people aged 12 to 25 to gain recognised qualifications alongside taking part in its music and wellbeing programmes.

Funding boost for Oxford youth music charity

The funding will help In-Spire expand its reach across Oxfordshire at a time when many young people are facing increasing challenges around mental health, school exclusion and social isolation.

Since launching in 2020, the organisation says it has supported more than 250 young people each year through workshops in rap, R&B, electronic music, lyric writing, beat-making and music production.

By combining creative opportunities with pastoral support and mentoring, the CIC aims to help young people build confidence, reconnect with education and develop positive futures.

Debut mixtape showcases young talent

The impact of the project can already be heard on IN THE MIX: Volume 1, a 12-track mixtape written, recorded and performed entirely by young people involved with In-Spire.

Released in May 2026 and launched at a dedicated Oxford event, the compilation features rap, R&B and electronic music, with proceeds from Bandcamp sales and donations helping to fund future studio sessions.

The release provides a platform for participants to share their work with the wider community while gaining hands-on experience of the music industry.

Working alongside music industry mentors

Participants learn from a team of established music professionals, including High Focus Records artist Kemastry, producer and engineer Sam Mansell, whose clients have included the BBC, Adobe, Warner Music and the University of Oxford, and UK hip-hop artist Evolucian.

Founder and director Kingsley “King” Boyden said: “We provide a structured, safe space where young people can build confidence, develop skills and see a future for themselves.”

He added: “Our ultimate goal is for young people not to need us anymore. If they don’t need us anymore, that’s success.”

New qualifications and pathways into creative careers

As an accredited Alternative Education Provider, In-Spire can now offer recognised qualifications alongside its creative programmes, giving young people additional routes into further education, employment and the creative industries.

The organisation also works to improve access to music careers for young people from lower-income backgrounds, ethnic minority communities, LGBTQ+ communities and those living with disabilities.

With fresh funding secured, an expanding education offer and a debut release showcasing participants’ achievements, In-Spire Sounds hopes to continue creating opportunities for young people across Oxfordshire through the power of music.

For more information, visit the In-Spire Sounds website.

Crofton Beam Engines to mark Kennet and Avon Canal Trust’s 75th anniversary with steam-powered celebration

Zoe Gater

Crofton Beam Engines will celebrate the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust’s 75th anniversary with a special steam event featuring historic beam engines, an accessibility boat exhibition, family activities and a biofuel trial aimed at preserving the site’s industrial heritage for future generations.


History, heritage and family fun are all on the agenda at Crofton Beam Engines this June, as the iconic site celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust with a special two-day event.

Taking place on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June 2026, the celebration will shine a spotlight on the Trust’s remarkable achievements in restoring and preserving one of the country’s most important waterways, while giving visitors the chance to see Crofton’s famous beam engines in action.

A highlight of the weekend will be the arrival of Hannah, one of the Trust’s accessibility boats. Open to visitors throughout Saturday and on Sunday morning, the boat will host an exhibition exploring the Trust’s past, present and future, offering a fascinating insight into the organisation’s role in bringing the canal back to life.

Adding to the occasion, Crofton’s historic boiler will be in steam, powering its world-renowned beam engines inside their Grade I listed Georgian buildings. Visitors can discover more about the restoration of the canal and pumping station, learn about future plans and find out how they can support ongoing conservation efforts.

The event will also showcase Crofton’s commitment to sustainability, with a trial of a biofuel made from a by-product of the rapeseed oil industry taking place on Saturday. The alternative fuel is being tested as a potential replacement for coal, helping to secure the future operation of the site’s historic machinery for generations to come.

Families can look forward to a packed programme of activities, including a duck race, interactive demonstrations showing how water can be lifted, hands-on large-scale models and craft activities for children. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the site’s grounds and taking in views across Wilton Water and the surrounding countryside.

The on-site tearoom will be open throughout the weekend, while guests are also welcome to bring a picnic and make the most of the picturesque setting.

For more information, visit croftonbeamengines.org.

Win! Tickets to Henley Festival and a VIP Champagne dinner for two at The Crooked Billet’s exclusive riverside restaurant

Zoe Gater

One lucky reader can enjoy a memorable evening at Henley Festival, with two general admission tickets for Thursday 9 July and a VIP Champagne Dinner for two at chef Paul Clerehugh’s acclaimed Crooked Billet Riverside Festival Restaurant.


Widely regarded as one of Britain’s original gastropubs, The Crooked Billet in Stoke Row has been at the forefront of pub dining for decades. The Daily Mail famously coined the term ‘gastropub’ in 1989 when describing the venue, helping cement its reputation as a pioneer of modern British pub food.

Owner and chef Paul Clerehugh became the first pub chef to win a prestigious Craft Guild of Chefs Award in 2004, a landmark moment recognising the culinary excellence found in Britain’s pubs.

Since then, the award has gone on to honour leading names including Tom Kerridge, Dominic Chapman and Nina Matsunaga.

The Crooked Billet has attracted national attention throughout its history, from hosting Kate Winslet’s wedding reception to being named among The Evening Standard’s Top 10 Pubs in 2025.

Readers of Observer Food Monthly voted Paul’s Sunday roast the best in Britain, while Tatler named it the best place to eat during Henley Royal Regatta.

Returning to Henley Festival this year, Paul and his team will once again be serving their award-winning gastropub menu from the riverside festival restaurant, where guests can enjoy exceptional food in one of the festival’s most sought-after dining locations.

Win a VIP Henley Festival experience

One lucky winner will receive:

– Two general admission tickets to Henley Festival on Thursday 9 July

– A VIP Champagne Dinner for Two at The Crooked Billet Riverside Festival Restaurant

How to enter

For your chance to win, simply answer the following question: Who is the Henley Festival headline act on Thursday 9 July?

Email your answer to: info@l-s-b.co.uk

Closing date: Sunday 5 July 2026.

Terms and conditions

– Entrants must be aged 18 or over.
– Entries must be received by 11.59pm on 5 July 2026.
– The prize includes two general admission tickets to Henley Festival on Thursday 9 July 2026 and a VIP
– Champagne Dinner for Two at The Crooked Billet Riverside Festival Restaurant.
– No cash alternative is available.
– The prize is non-transferable and subject to availability.
– The promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of equal or greater value if circumstances require.
– The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.