Discover the joy of veg & company with Twyford Growers, as the group invites over-50s to get involved this spring.
Do you have green fingers? Would you like to, but don’t know where to start? Join Twyford Growers – a local gardening group that brings people together to enjoy gardening in the great outdoors.
Twyford Growers meets weekly to grow fruit, flowers and vegetables in a friendly, sociable setting. Whether you already love gardening or want to try it for the first time, the group welcomes you.
The group meets on Thursday mornings at Hurst Road Allotments in Twyford. You’ll find the site near the train station, with parking, seating and toilets available.
At the end of each session, everyone comes together for a well-deserved tea break. The group welcomes older people from the local area, supports those living with dementia, and encourages carers to join in too. To find out more, email twyfordgrowers@gmail.com or call 07718 882792.
Twyford Growers forms part of the wide range of activities that Age UK Berkshire runs to help older people stay socially connected. Developing interests matters at any age, especially as we grow older.
If you’re over 50 and live locally, you can enjoy a full calendar of events through Age UK Berkshire. The organisation runs social groups, seated yoga classes, choirs and much more.
Emily Lowson says: “Alongside activities, Age UK Berkshire delivers a range of support services. We provide free information and advice, a home help plus service, a handyperson service, and Home from Hospital, which helps you settle back at home after a hospital stay. We also offer a fully qualified one-to-one dementia support service, giving care to people living with dementia and vital respite to their carers and loved ones.”
A vibrant new space for arts, classes, performances and community connection has now opened its doors in Newbury.
After nearly a decade in the making, Newbury Old Library has officially reopened its doors, transformed into a vibrant, flexible arts hub in the heart of the town.
The newly opened Old Library Café Bar, launched on Monday 23 March 2026, is now welcoming visitors on weekdays, offering a relaxed space to enjoy a coffee or bite to eat while taking in the character of the redeveloped building.
Alongside this, courses and classes began across the upstairs and downstairs spaces from Monday 20 April, with a programme of intimate performances in the studio theatre set to follow as part of the autumn season.
Delivered by Corn Exchange Newbury, the project has been years in the planning. Initial development work began in late 2022, followed by extensive consultation and design stages, before construction commenced in early 2025.
The building has since been carefully taken back to its bare structure and reimagined as a modern, multi-purpose venue designed to serve a wide range of community and creative needs.
More than half of the funding for the redevelopment was secured through trusts, foundations and public donations, with the generosity of supporters playing a vital role in bringing the vision to life.
The finished space now includes two flexible activity and performance areas, a studio theatre with seating for up to 94 people, and a welcoming café bar at its centre.
The project aims to create a space that feels calm, friendly, adaptable and inspiring – a place where people of all ages can feel at home and return to time and again. That ethos builds on a strong foundation of community engagement developed over the past 15 years.
In the past year alone, more than 30,000 community engagements have taken place through a range of inclusive and accessible initiatives.
These include ‘Touch to See’, an arts programme supporting people with visual impairments; ‘Contactless Creativity’, which connected participants during the pandemic through delivered activity packs and radio broadcasts; and ‘Becoming Us’, designed to support new parents and their babies as they reconnect socially and reach early developmental milestones.
The organisation’s Youth Theatre has also grown significantly, now engaging over 140 members and providing opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop skills and form lasting friendships.
The Old Library is now fully open, and provides a central base from which this work can continue to grow.
Miroslava Flimelova invites you to the Reading Sailing Club open day on 9 May 2026 to experience the joy of being on the open water.
Sailing offers a unique way to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors, fresh air, and wide-open spaces. It allows people to cross oceans – or simply a lake – using wind power alone.
It offers something for everyone. As a competitive sport, it demands technical skill and athletic ability, and as a leisure activity, it provides calm and relaxation. The independence of being on a boat with only the wind and the waves brings a distinctive thrill.
Reading Sailing Club is a hidden gem for anyone who loves the water, set on a beautiful, secluded lake in Sonning, just minutes from Reading town centre (postcode RG4 6TT).
The club provides a friendly, welcoming environment with facilities for dinghy sailing, model yachting, windsurfing, and paddle sports. A full programme of racing, adult and junior training, and social events runs throughout the year.
The membership spans novices to competitive racers, thrill-seekers who enjoy challenging conditions, and those who prefer peaceful time on the water with family and friends – or watching sunsets over the lake.
The club celebrates its 72nd anniversary this year and has occupied the current site since 1967. The current clubhouse, completed in 2004, offers excellent facilities, including an outdoor deck with views across the lake. A large boat park supports member-owned craft, alongside a range of dinghies available for hire.
Members run the club entirely, volunteering as instructors, race officials, safety boat crew, and maintenance teams. The club operates as a recognised Royal Yachting Association sailing centre, offering structured training and qualifications.
The club aims to encourage more people to take up sailing and will host an open day on Saturday 9 May 2026, from 11am to 3pm.
The event welcomes everyone and offers a chance to try sailing in sessions led by experienced sailors. Visitors can meet members and learn about training and membership options. Windsurfing, canoeing, and model yachting displays will take place, with refreshments available.
Anyone interested can register in advance by contacting enquiries@readingsc.org.uk or attend on the day. A warm welcome awaits. Find out more at readingsc.org.uk
Win a vibrant South Indian banquet for four people delivered to your door this season, thanks to WorldFeast.
If you’ve been enjoying the bold flavours and global inspiration in our latest Recipes & Wine Compendium, this is your chance to bring those ideas to life – no cooking required.
Close your eyes and imagine the scent of toasted spices drifting through warm evening air, the gentle heat of chilli balanced with creamy coconut, and dishes designed to be shared, savoured and remembered… That’s exactly what’s on offer with this irresistible competition from WorldFeast.
We’ve teamed up to give one lucky winner a South Indian Feast Box for four – a generous, chef-curated experience that brings the soul of southern India straight to your table, wherever you are in the UK.
This is food that sings with flavour. Think slow-simmered Goan pork vindaloo, rich and tangy with warming spice; fragrant Malabar prawn curry, layered with coastal influences; and vibrant vegetable sambar, brimming with depth and comfort. Alongside, you’ll find crisp, golden pakoras, delicate coconut sides and colourful accompaniments that add freshness, texture and balance to every bite.
WorldFeast specialises in creating beautifully composed meal boxes that celebrate global cuisine in its truest form. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, allowing you to experience bold, authentic flavours without the fuss – just heat, serve and enjoy.
Perfect for entertaining, a laid-back dinner with friends or a cosy night in with something a little different, this feast transforms any meal into an occasion. It’s generous, joyful and bursting with the kind of flavour that lingers long after the last bite.
The UK’s first-ever National Triathlon Day launches in Surrey this May, with a free, beginner-friendly event featuring pro athletes, coaching sessions and hands-on activities.
The UK’s very first National Triathlon Day is set to launch on Wednesday 7 May 2026 – and everyone is invited to give it a ‘tri’ at a free, action-packed event in Surrey.
Taking place at Divers Cove from 4pm to 8pm, the inaugural celebration aims to introduce more people to the world of triathlon, regardless of experience or fitness level.
Organised by leading triathlon brand Zone3, the event promises a welcoming, hands-on environment where visitors can discover what the sport is all about.
Guests will have the chance to try out kit, take part in coached sessions led by top professionals and hear directly from elite athletes during a live Q&A.
Among the special guests is Kieran Lindars, who recently made headlines by setting a new British Ironman record at the 2026 Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Texas North American Championship in April.
He’ll be joined by respected coach Scott Hill, a British Triathlon high-performance coach and former Performance Director and Head Coach for the Royal Air Force Triathlon team.
Designed to be as inclusive as possible, the event will feature a range of accessible activities.
Visitors can enjoy free open water swimming sessions, test out equipment, hop onto turbo trainers for a cycling workout or explore the scenic surroundings on foot or at a run.
While attendance is free, donations will be welcomed for Level Water, a charity dedicated to providing swimming opportunities for children with disabilities.
The day will also mark Zone3’s commitment to donate £1 from every pair of goggles sold throughout the season to support the charity’s work.
The partnership marks a significant opportunity for AHAG to expand its reach and impact at a time when demand for homelessness support continues to grow locally.
Aylesbury Homeless Action Group (AHAG) has been awarded the Rothschild Foundation Charity of the Year for 2026, following a vote by staff and volunteers at Waddesdon Manor.
The local homelessness charity, which has supported people in north Buckinghamshire since 1992, provides advice and practical assistance to individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
In the past 12 months alone, AHAG has helped more than 700 people – double the figure recorded in 2022 – reflecting rising demand for its services amid ongoing financial pressures in the region.
Its work includes housing and financial guidance, as well as access to legal and mental health support, with a focus on helping people move from crises into stable accommodation and longer-term independence.
As part of the 2026 partnership, AHAG will receive a £20,000 grant from the Rothschild Foundation, alongside support aimed at increasing awareness, volunteer engagement and fundraising capacity.
A calendar of community fundraising events is also planned, including a Solidarity Sleepout, Bake Off mornings, pub quizzes and bingo nights.
Sir Roger Wright, CEO of the Rothschild Foundation, said the decision reflected strong internal support for AHAG’s work and highlighted the importance of local charities making a difference across Buckinghamshire.
AHAG CEO James Boultbee welcomed the recognition, noting the growing number of people seeking help in recent years. He praised the dedication of the charity’s staff and volunteers, who support individuals “from crisis to being housed, settled and confident in their future,” and emphasised the vital role of community backing.
Five pairs of sustainable luxe String Nix thongs worth £150 to be won…
Understated, elegant and designed for everyday comfort, String Nix is redefining your top drawer essentials. Founded in Surrey by Carol Wiltshire, the brand focuses on beautifully crafted organic cotton thong underwear that feels as good as it looks.
Each piece is designed to offer a smooth, barely-there fit, sitting softly against the skin for all-day ease. The breathable organic cotton ensures comfort without compromise, while the refined cut creates a flattering, effortless silhouette.
Available in six timeless, carefully considered shades, String Nix combines simplicity with quiet luxury – the kind you’ll reach for again and again. It’s no surprise the brand has earned glowing reviews from those who value both comfort and conscious design.
We’ve teamed up with String Nix to offer one lucky winner five pairs of these sustainable essentials, worth £150.
Make the most of May half term with a packed programme of family-friendly days out across the region, from outdoor adventures and animal encounters to creative workshops and live entertainment.
Longer days and a welcome hint of summer make May half term the perfect excuse to get out and explore. Whether your children love getting close to nature, diving into hands-on activities or simply burning off energy in the great outdoors, there’s no shortage of inspiration.
Across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Surrey, you’ll find a brilliant mix of festivals, trails, shows and immersive experiences designed to keep all ages entertained.
Berkshire
This year’s Reading Children’s Festival celebrates its 37th anniversary from May 9th to 31st with events and activities for children all over the borough, starting with Forbury Fiesta on 9th, where there will be something for everyone to get involved with on the day. Expect plenty of fun, mayhem and madness from sport and music workshops to fun with art and craft sessions – take your pick from the exciting events at venues across Reading. Visit whatsonreading.com for more.
Get ready for a week of animal talks and interactive farm-themed activities at Wellington Country Park, May 25th to 29th. Meet the Farmer Q&A, step into the shoes of a vet with roleplay workshops and get stuck in with a mucking out activity. Explore tractors and ride-on mowers and discover how they are used. Get creative by chalk painting wooden barn animals, explore the corn sensory box and make memories at some of the farm-themed photo points. Book tickets at wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk.
Follow the Sonning Scarecrow Trail in and around the beautiful Thameside village to find the themed scarecrows amongst the gardens and hedgerows on May 24th & 25th.
Boom, Boom! The Basil Brush Family Magic Show comes to South Hill Park Wilde Theatre on Friday, 29th May. What tricks will the cunning fox be up to? Tickets at southhillpark.org.uk/shp-events/basil-brush-family-magic-show/.
Football Mania is set to hit Windsor Racecourse on Monday, 25th May when the pitch comes to the turf. Under 18s go free and there’s free entertainment for all the family all day alongside racing including fun fair rides, Shetland Pony races, bouncy castles, circus performers, stilt footballers, penalty shoot-out and football darts—all getting you ready for the World Cup in June. windsor-racecourse.co.uk
The National Trust always serves up family fun days to enjoy. Take the woodland walk in Basildon Park to find the wild play trail in the parkland. Get adventurous on the balance beam, jump on the hopscotch and play with the ball run. Enjoy playing in nature at Greys Court, look out for trees to climb and piles of logs to jump over on your very own adventure.
Go Ape in Swinley Forest offers high ropes for treetop adventures—take on the forest trails with a Segway, tackle the tree-to-tree crossings, Tarzan swings and epic zip lines. Book at goape.co.uk/locations/bracknell.
Get your hands dirty with Create & Grow at Squire’s Garden Centres this half term—plant a tasty veg pot, decorate it, add a plant label and take it home to watch your veggies grow (£8 booking a must, squiresgardencentres.co.uk).
Buckinghamshire
Waddesdon Manor is always a great day out. Between 23rd & 31st May, Art in Nature (free with entry) invites you to get hands-on with large-scale community collaborations, take part in workshops, masterclasses and talks, or simply wander the art trails; visit waddesdon.org.uk.
Chinnor & Princess Risborough Railway offers timeless family-friendly adventures. Why not book a ride on a lovingly restored heritage train? Visit chinnorrailway.co.uk.
Kew Little Pigs in Old Amersham is a small, friendly farm offering pre-booked piggy petting and grooming experiences that will have you smitten… Also check out the May Half-Term Colouring Competition! kewlittlepigs.com.
Step back in time at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont St Giles. Events include family trails, traditional games and costumed interpreters bringing historic buildings to life, with plenty of space to roam; coam.org.uk.
Fancy a National Trust day? Exciting plans are afoot at Hughenden Manor, the former home of Benjamin Disraeli, with a children’s trail and hands-on craft workshops. The gardens and orchards will be buzzing with life. Nearby, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt lands at Cliveden, with a series of interactive installations. Get ready to swish, splash and squelch your way to the bear this half term! nationaltrust.org.uk.
Enjoy time on the water with Cookham Reach Sailing Club, a friendly, family-focused club on a beautiful stretch of the Thames. Open to all ages and abilities, it offers everything from relaxed social sailing and paddle boarding to competitive racing and coaching sessions; cookhamreachsc.org.
Over in Beaconsfield, Bekonscot Model Village is a timeless treat. Kids love spotting the tiny trains, buildings and hidden details, and it’s just the right size for a relaxed half-day outing; bekonscot.co.uk.
A family trip to Peterley Manor Farm in Prestwood is always a feast for all the senses. Check out Cherry’s Nature Crafting Sessions for little ones aged three to seven, 26th to 29th May; peterleymanorfarm.co.uk.
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts near Maidenhead hosts family theatre, workshops and drop-in craft sessions perfect for the school holidays; norden.farm.
Bookworms shouldn’t miss the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden, with interactive exhibits, storytelling and creative fun; roalddahlmuseum.org.
And Go Ape Wendover delivers treetop adventures, zip wires and forest fun high above the ground, set in beautiful woodland; goape.co.uk.
Oxfordshire
Starting with a seasonal favourite, Waterperry Gardens is bursting into bloom. Follow Family Trails through the ornamental gardens, with clues to solve along the way, then refuel at the tearoom or browse the garden shop; waterperrygardens.co.uk.
For hands-on countryside fun, Big Bale Play at High Lodge Farm in Culham is a winner. Think giant straw bale mazes, climbing towers and space to roam; highlodgefarm.com.
For a brilliant mix of history and play, Cogges Manor Farm near Witney offers 17 acres of adventure. Meet the animals and enjoy seasonal crafts, trails and storytelling; cogges.org.uk.
Nature lovers will adore Earth Trust for outdoor discovery. Climb Wittenham Clumps for stunning views or explore meadows, ponds and woodlands; earthtrust.org.uk.
In Oxford, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History hosts interactive events such as Meet the Scientists (27th & 28th May), while The Story Museum brings tales to life through play; storymuseum.org.uk. The Ashmolean Museum offers fantastic free family activities; ashmolean.org, while Oxford Castle and Prison often runs interactive workshops; oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk.
Transport fans will love the Oxford Bus Museum, where heritage rides await; oxfordbusmuseum.org.
History fans can enjoy themed fun at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock (sofo.org.uk), while the Pendon Museum offers a glimpse of rural life for all generations; pendonmuseum.com.
For a grand day out, Blenheim Palace is always a showstopper, with parkland, play areas and Half-Term Trails; blenheimpalace.com.
Nearby, the inclusive Fairytale Farm brings magic to life; fairytalefarm.co.uk. And Roves Farm near Swindon offers animal encounters and family fun; rovesfarm.co.uk.
If you fancy a touch of arts and crafts heritage, Kelmscott Manor, once home to William Morris, is open for the season. Wander through the enchanting gardens, explore the historic interiors and enjoy homemade treats in the tearoom; kelmscottmanor.org.uk
Fancy a National Trust day out? Hughenden Manor is always a winner, with woodland trails, open parkland and family-friendly activities.
Cliveden is another showstopper, with its parterre gardens, riverside walks and Storybook Play Den, perfect for outdoor fun; nationaltrust.org.uk
Hampshire
The Shed is your go-to spot for family fun, laughter, and community vibes! With Free Toddler Tuesdays, lively Saturday Events, and something happening every week, there’s fun for all ages. Sing your heart out at family karaoke, get crafty with Daisy, or enjoy music, games, and more. From dog walks to wine strolls, it’s all about bringing people together and making great memories.
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Nature Day at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne, on May 10th. This perfect and affordable family day out invites visitors to connect with nature through guided walks, hands-on crafts and activities from conservation groups, while exploring the historic house and beautiful gardens in a fun, engaging setting for all ages. Children go free!
Farncombe Boat House is open from late March until the end of October for self-drive day boats and holiday boats. Enjoy a day out on the River Wey with friends and family, or a weekend exploring further downstream and onto the River Thames. Available for days, weekends, midweek breaks and weekly holidays on the river.
Enjoy a great day out by steam with Railway Touring Company to destinations including historic towns and cities, trips to the seaside, as well as journeys through mountains and valleys across land often not seen from roads. Most trains allow time to visit the destination and discover its attractions. To find out where your next journey could take you, visit railwaytouring.net/uk-day-trips.
To celebrate the launch of the new book I Spot a Cow by Kay Vincent, published by Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust, join Hinton Ampner for this fun-filled family trail and explore the gardens to find all of the farm animals. They’ve also left lots of fun games for you to do along the way!
Day Out With Thomas™: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour is hitting the tracks and bringing the beat to The Watercress Line from 23rd to 31st. Hop on board a train ride with Thomas, watch exciting live shows with Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty, join the Thomas & Friends™ character hunt, enjoy garden games and more! There are also two new Rusty & Dusty outdoor entertainment shows with Sir Topham Hatt, Percy, Diesel and Toad.
Screen On The Lawn returns to Aviator Hotel in Farnborough this month, bringing a unique outdoor cinema experience—where else can you watch an iconic film while private jets take off behind the screen? The 2026 line-up includes Pretty Woman (22nd May), Zootropolis 2 (23rd 4pm), F1: The Movie (23rd 8pm) and Grease (24th 8pm). More info & booking at aviatorhampshire.com/experiences/screen-on-the-lawn.
Surrey
May half term is time for the Great Garden Game-a-thon at RHS Garden Wisley. Explore the maze and play giant garden games. Meet Zoolab’s animals in Scales and Tails Challenge and climb through leaves and branches to reach the top. Details & booking at rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley/whats-on/may-half-term-at-wisley.
Hatchlands Park invites you to take a magical wander inspired by Moominvalley this spring, with a family trail around the garden, meeting characters from the stories.
Be a Meadow Explorer and step into the wild beauty of the meadow with relaxed, family-friendly outdoor adventure at Painshill. Discover the incredible plants, insects and wildlife that thrive in this vibrant habitat.
Farncombe Boat House is open from late March until the end of October for self-drive day boats and holiday boats. Enjoy a day out on the River Wey with friends and family, or a weekend exploring further downstream and onto the River Thames. Available for days, weekends, midweek breaks and weekly holidays on the river Wey.
The Shed is your go-to spot for family fun, laughter, and community vibes! With Free Toddler Tuesdays, lively Saturday Events, and something happening every week, there’s fun for all ages. Sing your heart out at family karaoke, get crafty with Daisy, or enjoy music, games and more. From dog walks to wine strolls, it’s all about bringing people together and making great memories.
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Nature Day at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne on May 10th. This affordable family day out invites you to connect with nature through guided walks, hands-on crafts and activities from conservation groups, while exploring the historic house and beautiful gardens. Children go free!
Say Hello Again as you follow Neil Diamond’s story from his early songwriting days to international stardom, through six decades of hits including Sweet Caroline. Hello Again – The Neil Diamond Story is at Camberley Theatre on Saturday, 2nd May. Get the Party Started with award-winning P!nk impersonator Stacy Green on 11th July, packed with pop hits and energy.
Enjoy a great day out by steam with Railway Touring Company to destinations including historic towns and cities, seaside trips, and journeys through mountains and valleys across countryside often not seen from roads. Most trains allow time to explore the destination. Visit railwaytouring.net/uk-day-trips.
Get your hands dirty with Create & Grow at Squire’s Garden Centres this half term—plant a tasty veg pot, decorate it, add a plant label and take it home to watch your veggies grow (£8 booking required, squiresgardencentres.co.uk).
Which school is right for your child? You’ll find the answers at an open day.
Q. What should you ask at a school open day?
A. As much as you can to find out the information you need to help you make the right choice. Here are a few suggestions to help:
Academic & educational philosophy
What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
How does the school challenge high achievers and support those with special needs or learning difficulties such as dyslexia?
How is academic progress measured and reported to parents?
How are pupils prepared for key transitions such as from primary to secondary and to university
Does the school focus largely on academic achievement or is their approach more holistic?
How frequent are parents’ evenings and what format do they take?
Atmosphere & pastoral care
How do you handle bullying and ensure pupil mental health and wellbeing?
How do you help new students settle in?
What is the school’s philosophy regarding homework?
What is your approach to discipline and behaviour management?
How is the pastoral welfare of the pupils monitored and how are parents kept informed?
Is there a House system and are children offered the opportunity to take on responsibility?
What career advice is given and how is this delivered?
Are children assisted to plan and secure work experience?
Logistics & facilities
Logistics & facilities
What is the average class size?
What extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports are available?
Is there before-and-after school care?
What are the facilities like for arts, technology, and sports?
Are there trips and events to develop and widen interest and knowledge outside the classroom curriculum?
What provision is there for extra lessons in musical instruments? Is there a choir or orchestra?
Does the school offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award?
Do sixth form pupils participate in Young Enterprise?
What transport options are available for to and from school?
Key tips
Key tips for the day include paying attention to how teachers interact with students and the general atmosphere. Most open days will include an address from the headteacher, which will often give you a good overall impression.
Visit everyday areas: Don’t just see the library and gym; check the toilets and dining area for maintenance and cleanliness too.
We all need space, sometimes personal and sometimes in our homes – but there are ways you can create both.
Fed up of picking clothes up from the floordrobe and trying to force things into spaces they’re just not meant to go? Perhaps it’s time to declutter and make more of the space in your home.
Ruthlessly decluttering is the perfect place to start and when you can see the wood for the trees, you’ll have a much clearer way of maximising the space available.
Vertical storage such as ladder shelves and multifunctional furniture such as sofa beds and storage ottomans often offer quick wins. Use mirrors to increase light, and adopt a neutral colour palette to make rooms feel larger.
Look around your home with a critical eye to assess where you could make space or at least create the illusion of it.
For example, could you add a slimline cabinet or wall-mounted hooks in the hall rather than the free-standing coat stand? What about the under-the-stairs space – is there room for corner shelving or drawers for extra storage? A few simple tricks can make all the difference there without the need for the assistance of a boy wizard.
Install a media wall with shelving and drawers for additional storage, it will create a focal point in the living room drawing eyes to that and away from a lack of space.
Letting more light in will instantly create the impression of space, skylights, bi-fold doors and even just simple spotlights or stand out light fittings will help brighten up a room. If space is a squeeze in your home, how about swapping traditional opening doors with sliding ones.
Look upwards, perhaps a loft conversion is the answer, specialists can talk you through your options and carry out the work. Putting boards down and simply using the area for storage will at the least keep your clutter out of sight but could your loft become another room, perhaps a play room or den for teenagers? A properly insulated loft will also help keep your energy costs down.
Is there room to expand with an extension? Always check whether planning permission is needed first, and you may need to consult an architect to confirm your scheme is actually viable. Could you knock two smaller rooms into one to create a large living/dining room? Be prepared for some upheaval along the way, but with the help of a reliable local builder, you can make space for your place to grow.
