Waddesdon Manor unveils vibrant programme of spring events for 2026

Zoe Gater

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Hosting everything from winter walking tours and Easter adventures to Pudding Clubs and Mother’s Day afternoon teas, Waddesdon Manor has plenty to offer this spring.

Waddesdon Manor has announced an exciting selection of springtime activities throughout March and April 2026, with a programme spanning indulgent Pudding Clubs and afternoon teas to beautiful tours both inside and outdoors at the Manor.

Upcoming highlights include Winter Walking Tours. Taking place on Wednesdays and Sundays from 18 February to 22 March 2026, visitors can admire the beauty of the gardens in wintertime – and keep an eye out for aconites and hellebores, along with rarely visible views across Aylesbury Vale.

Showcasing three fabulous desserts created in-house by the Head Patissier, satisfy your sweet toth at the Pudding Club at the Manor Restaurant on Saturday 14 March, from 7pm.

Starting with canapés and sparkling wine in the Wine Cellars, the four-course menu celebrates the rich tradition of British desserts.

Light artist Bruno Munro returns to Waddesdon for the first UK collaboration with his daughter Tink Munro, from 27 March 2026 with the Four Seasons exhibition, exploring time, place, and the natural environment through light, sound, and sustainable materials.

It will be shown in the Coach House Gallery and includes a piece that translates the music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons into dynamic light.

Little ones can take part in an Easter Adventure Trail on various dates throughout March and April. Packed with games, creative activities, and, of course, chocolate eggs, simply pick up your trail sheet on arrival at the Welcome Pavilion or Visitor Information.

Running throughout the year, visitors can discover the stories of the rare, precious objects on display and learn about the tradition of treasure rooms as part of A Rothschild Treasure: Tours.

The Rothschild Treasury houses more than 300 objects made from rare and precious materials – from a 1st-century cameo of Augustus Caesar’s grandson to jewellery gifted by Queen Victoria, gold boxes, and more.

For the full programme or to book, visit Waddesdon Manor’s website.

Easter Trail © Waddesdon Manor Image Library, Chris Lacey

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Best Mother’s Day experiences in the South East

Zoe Gater

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From sparkling river cruises and indulgent afternoon teas to hands‑on workshops and soothing spa escapes, here’s our pick of wonderful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day across Surrey, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 30th March in 2026, offering the perfect excuse to slow down and show your appreciation.

Whether she loves time on the water, a decadent dining experience, hands-on creativity or pure relaxation, there are plenty of thoughtful ways to celebrate close to home this year.

River cruises

Treat mum to a relaxing cruise along the River Thames this Mother’s Day.

Enjoy three hours of sailing with Hobbs of Henley, complete with afternoon tea and a ‘Sparkling Lady’ cocktail on arrival. In Bray, choose a two-course lunch or afternoon tea cruise with Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company, while Thames Rivercruise in Caversham offers scenic trips with dining options. It’s a stylish, stress‑free way to celebrate on the water with springtime views in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

Afternoon tea

For mums who prefer dry land, there are plenty of indulgent options. Enjoy heritage surroundings at Waddesdon Manor, refined riverside luxury at Cliveden House, or sweeping Thames views with delicate pastries at Danesfield House Hotel & Spa.

Head west to Wiltshire’s Lucknam Park for a special Mother’s Day afternoon tea with spa add‑ons, or treat her to a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea experience in Surrey’s vineyards with sparkling wine. Traditional finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a glass of fizz make it a memorable celebration.

Creative workshops

Gift a hands-on experience with creative workshops across the region. Try a Mother’s Day Bouquet Workshop at Coppa Club Henley or Buckingham Flower Farm, or explore modern calligraphy at Farnham Maltings in Surrey.

For something crafty, book a candle-making workshop at Bicester Candles & Crafts and family-friendly glass fusing workshops at Wokingham Countryside Centre are also great for little helpers. These shared experiences leave mum with something handmade and memorable.

Spa days

If relaxation tops her wish list, a spa day is always a winner. Treat mum to indulgent spa packages at Pennyhill Park, known for its extensive thermal facilities, multiple pools and wide range of high‑end treatments in a luxurious Surrey countryside setting.

For a truly lavish retreat, enjoy the elegant wellness facilities at The Spa at Coworth Park in Sunningdale near Ascot, set in a Georgian country estate with refined spa therapies and scenic surroundings. Taplow House Hotel & Spa also offers pampering treatments in a serene setting, perfect for a full day of unwinding and celebrating Mother’s Day in style.

Scenic walks

For mums who love fresh air, a walk through flowering arboretums and historic forests provides a tranquil springtime escape for Mother’s Day.

Explore the bluebell trails and diverse tree collections at Winkworth Arboretum or explore the mature woodland trails at Alice Holt Forest – both in Surrey. Meander along the peaceful paths of Harcourt Arboretum in Oxfordshire and stroll among the ancient oaks and expansive glades of Savernake Forest in Wiltshire.

Dining out

A classic Sunday lunch never goes out of style. Book a riverside table at The Angel on the Bridge in Henley, enjoy refined dining at The Waterside Inn, or opt for relaxed country charm at The Crown at Bray.

For mums with a sweet tooth, check out spots like The Pot Kiln in Thatcham and The Great House in Sonning, where indulgent desserts are plentiful. Treats include chocolate custard cream cones, rhubarb sorbet with gingerbread, treacle tart with rum & raisin ice cream, and white chocolate crème brûlée with orange shortbread — all perfect for a decadent finish.

Family-focused events

Celebrate Mother’s Day with fun, hands-on activities across the region. Take part in the Roald Dahl Ramble: Matilda’s Mother’s Day Walk in Great Missenden on Sunday 15 March 2026 or explore spring gardens and trails at Cliveden.

Further afield, treat mum to a gentle Alpaca Walk at Hensting Alpacas in Hampshire, spot rare breed animals at Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park in Buckingham – with mums going free for the weekend – or head to Rumsey’s Chocolaterie for handmade Mother’s Day lollipops.

Local gifts: Memberships, drinks & artisan hampers

Prefer something to wrap? Celebrate local makers with artisan hampers from independent farm shops, small-batch spirits from producers such as Henley Distillery, or a vineyard tour and tasting at Stanlake Park Wine Estate.

For a gift that keeps giving, consider annual memberships to organisations like National Trust — opening the door to hundreds of historic houses and gardens — tickets for Blenheim Palace Flower Show and a theatre membership or gift voucher for venues such as Oxford Playhouse or Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

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13 best riverside restaurants and pubs on the Thames – Bucks & Berks

Zoe Gater

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Berkshire and Buckinghamshire are packed with riverside pubs perfect for lazy lunches and sunset drinks. Whether you’re arriving by foot, boat or bike, these waterside favourites offer front-row seats to some of the region’s most beautiful scenery.

From peaceful Thames-side terraces to tucked-away spots along the Kennet & Avon Canal, Bucks and Berks are brimming with gorgeous waterside venues.

Whether you’re planning a lazy afternoon drink, a scenic lunch stop on a country walk or a well-earned refreshment after time on the river, Round & About rounds up 13 of the best waterside pubs where you can soak up the sunshine and watch boats drift by.

1. The Swan at Pangbourne

A refurbished 17th-century Grad II-listed inn, The Swan is full of charm and character, featuring oak beams, open fires and a terrace overlooking the River Thames.

Perched right on the waterfront, the riverside pub offers boaters the chance to moor up and enjoy a pint on one of the most scenic stretches of the upper Thames.

2. The Boathouse at Boulters Lock, Maidenhead

Set beside the lock on its own island, this popular Thames-side spot offers front-row seats to the action on the river.

With plush sofas and expansive terraces, it’s a sought-after place to pause for drinks or lunch while watching boats pass through the lock.

3. The Compleat Angler, Marlow

One of the most famous Thames-side destinations, The Compleat Angler dates from the 17th century, but the current building is largely 19th century – and pairs refined food and drink with unbeatable views over Marlow Bridge.

You don’t have to be a hotel guest to dine here, but smart casual dress is encouraged. The venue is a classic choice for a special lunch or elegant evening by the water.

4. Roux at Skindles, Maidenhead

Set right on the Thames, Roux at Skindles brings elegant brasserie dining to one of the river’s most iconic addresses.

Expect refined British and French-inspired dishes, polished service and glorious water views from the terrace. Perfect for a long lunch or special-occasion supper just moments from Cliveden.

5. The Bounty, Bourne End

Relaxed and welcoming, The Bounty sits right on the Thames and is a favourite with locals, walkers and boaters.

Its riverside garden is a real draw when the sun is shining.

6. The Waterside Inn, Bray

A legendary riverside dining destination in Bray with three Michelin stars, where refined French-inspired cuisine and impeccable service meet picture-postcard views of the Thames.

Classic, elegant and ideal for a celebratory lunch or unforgettable dinner.

7. The Rowbarge, Woolhampton

A lively canal-side favourite on the Kennet & Avon Canal, The Rowbarge is an 18th-century pub known for its buzzing atmosphere, regular events and expansive outdoor space.

With its large garden set on the banks of the River Kennet – with access to the towpath and moorings – it’s a great place to enjoy sunny afternoons that drift into long summer evenings.

8. The Swan at Streatley

A relaxed yet stylish riverside pub and Coppa Club with a sunny terrace on the Thames, The Swan at Streatley serves seasonal European fare, pizzas and long lunches with river views.

Located in the Chiltern Hills, this spot is perfect for casual drinks, brunch or a laid-back dinner as boats drift by.

9. The Boatman, Windsor

With prime Thames-side views and Windsor Castle just upstream, The Boatman is a standout spot for a riverside pint.

Its spacious terrace makes it a top choice for summer drinks and people-watching – and you can enjoy waterside views all year round with a retractable roof to cater for the unpredictable British weather.

10. The Ferry, Cookham

A proper old-school river pub with moorings right outside, The Ferry is a much-loved stop on the Thames.

Its relaxed vibe and waterside seating make it perfect for an easy-going pint after a riverside stroll.

11. The Great House at Sonning

A charming riverside inn with a sunny terrace and classic British menus, The Great House at Sonning sits right on the Thames.

Perfect for lunch, drinks or a leisurely stop on a river walk, with moorings for boaters.

12. The Dundas Arms, Kintbury

Tucked away beside the Kennet & Avon Canal, The Dundas Arms is a postcard-perfect country pub surrounded by water, woodland and rolling countryside.

Popular with walkers and boaters, it’s ideal for a peaceful pint or hearty meal after exploring the towpath.

13. St George & Dragon, Wargrave

Nestled on the Thames in the charming village of Wargrave, the St George & Dragon combines traditional pub charm with riverside seating and scenic views.

It’s a great option for relaxed lunches or a sunny afternoon pint by the river.

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Fun, Friends, and Fresh Opportunities at the Didcot Youth Festival

Round & About

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Designed by young people for young people, Didcot Youth Fest, 11-5pm on Wednesday, 24th July, at the Cornerstone Arts Centre, promises lots of free fun

Discover the Didcot Youth Festival: Fun for Ages 10 to 20

The Didcot youth festival offers a lively day full of hands-on activities and live performances for young people aged 10 to 20. Designed by local volunteers, it celebrates creativity, community, and confidence.

A Festival Led by Young People

Young volunteers from Didcot worked with youth workers from TRAIN and SOFEA to create this festival. It supports youth-led social action and wellbeing, backed by Didcot Community Partnerships, SOHA, Sovereign Network Group, the #iwill Fund, and the National Lottery Community Fund.

Exciting Activities for Everyone

Visitors can enjoy graffiti art, dance workshops, live music, smoothie bikes, inflatables, parkour tasters, and human hungry hippos. The Youth Exhibition Zone shares information about local clubs, support services, and creative opportunities. Plus, there’s a chill-out space for those who want to relax.

Connecting Through Fun and Learning

The festival aims to help young people build confidence and explore new interests. It also offers a chance to connect with the local community. No booking is needed—just turn up and join the fun.

Ben Drabble, CEO of Didcot TRAIN, says, “This event is special because local young people shaped its vision and made the key decisions. They are creating something meaningful for their peers.” Zoe, a volunteer involved in website and flyer design, adds, “It’s great to have an event designed for us. It highlights many local opportunities.”

Supporting Youth Wellbeing and Social Action

This festival forms part of a wider project to encourage youth-led social action and improve wellbeing across Didcot. Through this event, organisers hope to inspire young people to get involved, learn new skills, and feel empowered within their community. Such initiatives play a vital role in creating a positive environment where young people can thrive.

More about SOFEA click here.

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Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide support

Round & About

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Coping With Suicide Loss: Tim Owens Shares His Story of Bereavement and Support with SoBS Witney

Tim Owens, a volunteer with Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS) in Witney, shares his powerful personal story of losing his beloved sister Lucy, who tragically died by suicide at just 29 years old. Now, he helps others navigate the grief and unanswered questions that follow a suicide loss.

Losing Lucy: A Brother’s Journey Through Suicide Bereavement

“Lucy had been struggling for most of 2013,” Tim shares. “We knew something wasn’t right, but we didn’t realise the depth of her pain.”

After leaving her job, Lucy began travelling around the UK, staying in hotels, withdrawing from daily life. Despite her family’s efforts to reach her, she kept insisting: “I’m all good.” Tim gently persuaded her to come and stay with him and his wife in their new home.

“She mostly curled up in a blanket on the sofa. It felt like having a timid rabbit in the house,” he remembers. “I was so careful—one wrong move and I thought she’d run. But I was just glad she was there.”

Lucy Owens

One day, Tim convinced Lucy to take a walk along the river. She spoke about her plans and sounded hopeful. “I tried not to ask too much. I just wanted her to feel safe.”

Then came October 1st—a day that changed everything.

“I came home from work and opened the door. That’s when the bomb exploded in my life.”

The Aftermath: Grieving a Sister Lost to Suicide

The hours and days that followed were overwhelming. “I went into overdrive. I needed to know why.”

Tim and his family discovered Lucy’s notebooks—pages filled with inner pain, self-hate, and overwhelming sadness. “She’d been battling alone for months. None of us knew. Her friends didn’t know. She had a brave face, but inside, she was fighting demons.”

Today, more than a decade later, Tim continues to live with grief. “I still wake up thinking I’ll call her. I miss her terribly. She never got to meet my children. I often wonder—what if she had stayed just a little longer?”

Finding Hope: Support After Suicide Loss with SoBS UK

Now, Tim channels his grief into helping others through SoBS (Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide), the only UK charity offering peer-to-peer support for adults affected by suicide loss.

“SoBS provides a safe, confidential space for those bereaved by suicide to share, support, and heal. We understand that each person’s experience is unique, but no one needs to go through it alone.”

The charity offers local groups, a national helpline, and resources for people coping with suicide loss in the short and long term.

“We’re a self-help organisation and provide a safe, confidential environment”

💛 If you’ve been bereaved by suicide, you are not alone.

Contact the SoBS support line: 0300 111 5065
Open daily from 9am to 7pm
Learn more at: www.uksobs.com

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Musical stars: Rock Choir

Round & About

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Rock Choir offers members known as Rockies much more than just the opportunity to sing with others, it can be life changing as founder Caroline Redman Lusher explains

Rock Choir takes on the role of a family, nurturing, supporting and transforming lives and for founder Caroline Redman Lusher, it is quite simply her “whole world”.

What is Rock Choir?

Founded in Farnham in 2005, Rock Choir has grown to encompass over 33,000 members across 400 choir groups in the UK.

Rock Choir is all about singing, having fun, community and friendship and best of all there’s no audition and no need to read music.

“Everyone who knows me understands that my whole world is Rock Choir and has been for 20 years now. It’s very much my ‘baby’ and very clearly my life’s work,” says Caroline. “Pop and rock music, performance and taking care of people are the three big areas of focus for me as well as my family, of course. I feel protective of my team, the choir leaders who work alongside me across the UK and the tens of thousands of members who take part in Rock Choir. After all, they have stepped into my Rock Choir- world and I feel responsible for their happiness, well-being, musical education and for my team, their careers.”

The Impact of Rock Choir

Caroline concedes that for any venture to succeed in the music business is notoriously tough but the letters she receives from Rockies makes it more than worthwhile. “When I hear their personal stories filled with challenges and often pain and grief, they explain how Rock Choir has helped, given them focus and friendship and made a huge and positive difference to them. It means the world to me and I know that I am in the right place with my life and career and making a difference to all these people.

“The personal sense of fulfilment comes when I see a member lose themselves in the music, smiling, singing and with sparkle in their eyes. They’re confident, free and happy. And that’s what we all want isn’t it? Rock Choir gave them this and it makes me want to work harder and offer the experience to as many people and communities as possible.”

Caroline’s new book, Sing: The Story of Rock Choir, documents her story and how she came to set up Rock Choir and in doing so help to transform the lives of thousands. The book delves into the meteoric rise of enterprise, which first captured national attention following an appearance on BBC Breakfast. This exposure helped propel Rock Choir into the spotlight, making it a symbol of joy, unity, and musical expression for people.

She explains: “When I created Rock Choir, my aim was to offer a positive, glamourous and safe social and musical platform to each community, supporting both the members who take part in Rock Choir and in turn, their families, local organisations and charities.

“I had already witnessed the positive impact of group singing on the mental health of my students as an A-level Music and Performing Arts teacher. I knew I could help communities and support the public if I offered something new and glamourous; a choir experience with exciting performance opportunities creating a busy social lifestyle led by exemplary teaching using pop and rock music.

“Instead of teaching traditional music using traditional choir values, I offered an accessible and inclusive experience with no audition and no requirement to read music. I created the unique Rock Choir experience using many well-being tools to help build members’ personal confidence, giving them a busy diary full of fun social events and immersing them in the greatest pop and rock songs of our time.

“The Rock Choir experience as a whole, leads to a huge improvement of their emotional, physical and mental health. It gives everyone a sense of purpose, fulfilment and the new friendships they make offer support, kindness and further social activities.”

For man Rockies it has become much more and is an emotional and fulfilling testament to the work of Caroline and her choir leaders. She says: “I often receive emails and letters from the Rockies and their families describing how Rock Choir has given them a new and happier outlook on life and that they have found their sparkle again; that they have made new friends for life.  

“For some, Rock Choir has become a life-line when the more difficult and challenging aspects of life appear like divorce, depression, empty-nest syndrome, loneliness, cancer and ill-health.  

“Rock Choir takes on the role of a family, nurturing, supporting and helping the individual. Introducing a choir which uses contemporary music, pop and rock songs and it has transformed lives.” 

Meet the choir leaders

All Rock Choir leaders are unique and talented individuals who have been carefully chosen, not just for their talent, but for their personality and commitment to members’ well-being too. There are currently over 80 leaders leading between 3 and 11 rehearsals a week in their community. 

  • Mondays at 8pm in St Michael’s Catholic School, Daws Hill Lane, Wycombe, HP11 1PW.
  • Tuesdays at 8pm in St Thomas’ Church in Mayflower Way, Holtspur, HP9 1UF.
  • Wednesdays at 11am in the Large Hall, Buckingham Park Community Centre, Jubilee Square, Aylesbury, HP19 9DZ.
  • Wednesdays at 7.30pm in the same hall, Buckingham Park Community Centre.
  • Wednesdays at 7.45pm in the Ernest Shackleton (small) hall, Jubilee Hall, Rectory Hill, Amersham, HP7 0BT.
  • Wednesdays at 8pm in the KS2 Hall, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Priory Road, Chalfont St Peter, SL9 8SB.

Join the Rock Choir Community today

Find details about your local Rock Choir at Meet Your Local Rock Choir Leaders

Sing: The Story of Rock Choir is available from SING – The Story of Rock Choir – Caroline Redman Lusher and at Waterstones, WH Smith, Amazon & more.

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Chiltern Camerata’s charming cello & more!

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

, ,

Chiltern Camerata will perform at St Mary’s Church in Old Amersham on Saturday, 9th November. Star local cellist Nicky Tait Baxter, who will perform, tells us more.

Music-lovers! An eagerly anticipated event is all set for St Mary’s in the form of the Chiltern Camerata’s autumn concert.

Local stars violinist Ruth Schulten and cellist Nicola Tait Baxter will perform one of the most intriguing of concertos ever written, Brahms’ Double Concerto, featuring two soloists & orchestra. It’s piece full of colours and warmth, with bold orchestral textures, offset against sumptuous and singing solo lines.

Nicky tells us: “I performed Shostakovich 1st concerto with the orchestra last year and I can’t wait to return for this performance. The Brahms happens to be one of my favourite pieces; it’s tremendously exciting and challenging to play and just brilliant to listen to!”

Other pieces in the programme are Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony. Now in their 29th season, The Chiltern Camerata string orchestra include professionals and advanced amateurs. The orchestra perform music from a widely drawn repertoire, this season under the baton of various guest conductors. Their guiding aim is to entertain audiences with music, from the Baroque era to the present, in a friendly, un-stuffy environment.

This concert, the first in the new season, starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12pp (18s and under go free) and you can book yours at ticketsource.co.uk/chiltern-camerata or email info@chilterncamerata.org.uk

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Which one is Bucks’ best-kept village?

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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Marlow has won the Buckinghamshire Best Kept Village Michaelis Cup for small towns

Marlow has been awarded the Buckinghamshire Best Kept Village Michaelis Cup in the small towns category of the annual competition. The judging, which took place in early June, evaluated various aspects such as green spaces, children’s play areas, floral displays, the cemetery, war memorial, nature conservation areas and community engagement. The judging panel praised the town’s hanging basket displays, the tidiness of the Cemetery, and the maintenance of the Causeway and War Memorial. Marlow received an impressive 192 points out of a possible 200.

The competition, based in Buckinghamshire and held annually between June and July, was established in 1957 by Sir Francis Dashwood and the Local Councils’ Association. It aims to encourage community collaboration across all age groups to enhance the attractiveness of villages and town for both residents and visitors.

The Leader of Marlow Town Council, Cllr Chris Funnell said: “We are proud of this success and see it as a foundation for addressing greater challenges such as environmental issues. This recognition motivates us to continue improving our community and we would like to thank the council team, community groups and residents for their dedication and support of our entry.”

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Vox pop Q&A with Holt Dugan

Round & About

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Carpenter & dad Holt Dugan, 45, tells us his best bits of Bucks after swapping America for Amersham

Q. Hi Holt. Where do you live?
“I live in Amersham with my wife Emily and our kids Ada (4), Sam(2), and our English Springer Spaniel Sonny. We live in Amersham and moved here from SW London in 2021. However, I grew up on a row-crop farm in the American mid-west and moved to England from Nashville at the end of 2018 after meeting Emily when she was visiting for work – we’ve been busy!”

Q. What are your favourite shops or local businesses?
“I can often be found at Timberstore in Beaconsfield where the team always look after me, and John Cox & Son Motors are top-notch mechanics and just generally good people. I work as a carpenter, specialising in bespoke garden rooms and outdoor kitchens, treehouses, pergolas and playground equipment, as well as fitted indoor furniture such as wardrobes, cabinets, bookshelves etc.”

Q. What are your favourite local pubs or restaurants?
“Lunches at Darmon Deli and at Spiga in Amersham are always great. In both instances, the proprietors are as terrific as the food. With two small children my wife and I are more likely to enjoy an evening takeaway from Tom Yum Thai in Amersham or from Kai at Shangri-La Chinese in Chesham. However, if we are going out, we do like to treat ourselves with the daal makhani at Hawkyns or a night at The Griffin in Old Amersham. I worked as a chef many years ago in Austin Texas so my ultimate treat is probably a tasting menu somewhere very fancy, which often surprises people! The Artichoke in Old Amersham for my birthday last year was exceptional.”

Q. What are your favourite walks?
“Sonny comes to work with me most days and my business partner Jon has a spaniel too so they have a great time! Our favourite place to walk is in the woods at Hervines Park near to where we live, particularly when the bluebells are out.”

Q. What highlights are you looking forward to later this year?
“Workwise we’re about to start building a three-tier treehouse with a zip line and climbing wall which I am excited about. With the weather finally turning nicer we are getting more outdoor kitchen projects being booked in. We just finished a really fun one in Chalfont St Giles and have another really unique one booked for Beaconsfield in a couple of weeks. We also have a massive timber-framed barn restoration and conversion on a farm outside of Chesham we’re really looking forward to. We’ve got a really enjoyable next few months coming up. Outside of work my family has a couple of holidays coming up. In July, my parents are coming over for my daughter’s nursery graduation after which we are all heading to Menorca for two weeks. Then in October my wife and kids and I are joining other friends for a week in Turkey.”

Q. What do you most love about where you live?
“I just love Amersham. The people are lovely. My neighbours are kind and amicable. The town itself has everything I need from hardware and timber to speciality groceries to Michelin star restaurants. Not to mention the absolutely breathtaking rolling hills and centuries old architecture. I can be lost in the woods, on a playground with the kids, picking up dinner, getting a cup of coffee or catching the tube to London, all within a 15-minute walk from my house. Y’all know how to design a town over here!”

Q. Finally, if you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?
“I would wish for everyone to live with a little more love and a little less fear. To work hard, laugh loudly, eat well, and be kind. Also, hire us for your next building project!”

Call Holt on 07379 209449.

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Farm shops worth forking out for!

Liz Nicholls

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Summer is the perfect season to sample the goodies at your local farm shop (NB many close on Mondays!), support homegrown growers and help the environment. Liz Nicholls offers her pick of the crops in Bucks & nearby

Fellow foodies, you’re in good hands at the universally loved Peterley Manor in Prestwood, HP16 0HH. Its founders, the Brill family, have been farming in these parts for more than 130 years. Today Peterley is a great day out, with its nursery, pick-your-own and gorgeous Barn Kitchen (a feast for your eyes and tastebuds). The multi-award winning farm shops stocks homegrown, British and seasonal produce, plus products from 100+ suppliers, including Bucks Fish, Laceys (more of which imminently), Nettlebed Creamery, Marlow Cheese Company and Norton and Yarrow. There are wellbeing events, and more too. Visit Peterley Manor Farm or call 01494 863566 to find out more.

The Laceys are into their seventh generation carrying on a passion for farming and preserving our beautiful countryside. And Laceys Farm Shop, HP14 3LP, is the cream of the crop! The farm is home to a pedigree herd of Guernsey Cows, beef cattle and arable croppers with milk bottled on site and delivered around local towns and villages, supplying independent cafes and restaurants. The Laceys are delighted to have been crowned Best Farm Shop and Deli in the 2024 Muddy Stilettos Awards. Visit Laceys Family Farm / 01494 881660.

Oxmoor Farm in Great Hampden, HP16 9RD, is open for the season! Every month the Wild Feasts team welcome a resident chef to cook a sharing banquet on the farmland to serve diners on shared tables overlooking the idyllic views (or in the renovated barn in cooler months). Beautiful new restaurant The Barn offers coffees, small plates, pizzas and natural wines and you can shop for fresh free range eggs, local honey and more. Visit Oxmoor Farm – The Barn & Wild Feast’s.

Would you like some wonderful Wagyu beef?! Pop into Town Farm Shop in Bisham, SL7 1RR, for this as well as fresh eggs, lamb, pork and pheasant (when in season). Visit Town Farm Shop or call 01628 473781.

Copas Farms Estate is a progressive, family-run, rural estate with deep roots in sustainable farming, in a fairytale setting. There are two pick-your-own Fruit Fields juicy with produce and the Copas Farm Shop in Iver, SL0 0LU. Visit Copas Farms Estate or call 01753 652727.

Nearby, soft fruit and apples grow in abundance and you can pick your own or stock up on groceries at Home Cottage Farm Shop, SL0 0BB. Call 01753 653064 or visit Home Cottage Farm to find out more!

Looking to ‘taste the rainbow’ and tuck into the freshest produce? Emmett’s Farm Shop in Little Marlow, SL7 3RR, offer this, plus chilled & frozen items, cakes, flowers, local honey & much more. Call 01628 484094 or visit Emmetts Farm Shop

Are you, like me, a sucker for a scotch egg?! This (as well as Mrs Blusch’s strawberry jam) is one of the specials attracting a loyal customer base at Amersham’s Hatchery Farm Shop, HP7 0JY. Visit The Hatchery Farm Shop or call 01494 670109.

All the goodies are created with love and locally sourced at Orchard View Farm in Little Meadle, HP17 9UG. This postcard-pretty setting is a dog-friendly and also has a café, farm shop, butchery and campsite. Call 01844 273387 or visit ORCHARD VIEW FARM

Farming comes first at the small but perfectly formed Buckmoorend Farm Shop in Butler’s Cross, HP17 0UT. You’ll find quality pork, beef and lamb, available for sale and the family team are involved in the entire chain, from farm to fork. They also serve hot food and drinks from the farm kitchen. The farm is surrounded by natural woodland amid the undulating Chiltern Hills and is part of the Chequers Estate, steeped in history. Call 01296 622472 or visit Buckmoorend Farm to find out more.

From pies to parties the team at Bradmoor Farm, Shop & Café in Haddenham, HP17 8JX are ready & waiting to help you! The butcher’s counter is full of quality cuts of meat and is a great stop for barbecue-lovers – the team’s banging burgers and sausages are freshly made on site. Call 01844 299387 or visit Bradmoor Farm to find out more.

Suppliers to the best in the hospitality business, Boarstall Meats was established in 2000 to market all the livestock produced on the Ernest Cook Trust farm of 500 acres half of which is on Muswell Hill (besides the Pheasant in Brill) which in places in 500ft above sea level and therefore only suited to grazing livestock. The shop is open Thursday to Saturday, and the team can cater for your outdoor events. Call 01844 238256 or visit Boarstall Meats to find out more.

Still fresh after 70 years in business, Rectory Farm, in nearby Stanton St John, OX33 1HF, is home to 45 acres of PYO fields, a well-stocked farm shop, cafe and woodland play area for a beautiful day out in the countryside. I’m a little bit obsessed with the coffee, with an obligatory wodge of cake. I also highly recommend the pies and sausage rolls from the Eadles Farm in neighbouring Beckley and Kingcott Dairy’s award-winning cheeses. Home – Rectory Farm (rectoryfarmpyo.co.uk)

For artisan foods with provenance you can’t beat The Wild Pig (formerly known as The Crazy Bear Farm Shop) at Stadhampton, OX44 7XJ. The team here started breeding Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs in 2006 and it was the world’s first farm to be TSG approved, awarded for welfare excellence by Compassion in World Farming. Visit The Wild Pig for more about this & scenic hot air balloon rides!

Whether you’re looking for quality meat, seasonal veg, homemade pies, seasonal game or tasty chutneys, Kings Farm Shop in Nash Lee End near Wendover, HP22 6BH, is always worth a visit. For more info please call 01296 622014 or visit King’s Farm Shop in Wendover

The rosettes hang proudly at Parrott Bros Farm Shop on Beechmoor Farm in Whitchurch, HP22 4LG. You’ll find top-quality meat including gammon, venison, rabbit, chicken, duck, guinea fowl, partridge and sausages as well as pork pies, fruit and veg, dairy and bakery items, soups, pickles and preserves! Call 01296 641207 or visit Parrott Bros

Priding themselves on the best homegrown and homemade produce, the team at Waterperry Farm Shop, OX33 1LB, deliver to a large portion of west Bucks. Visit Waterperry Farm Shop or call 01844 369351 for more info.

I’ve almost got to the end of my greedy list but a shout-out to Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop over in Chipping Norton (as seen on Amazon Prime). Diddly Squat Farm Shop

You can find more shops near you – or wherever else you’re visiting over the summer – at Fabulous Farm Shops. Tuck in & enjoy!

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