Discover the countryside run club with a wild spa twist at Peterley Manor Farm

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

If your ideal weekend involves movement and mindfulness, this one’s worth setting an early alarm for.

Tucked away in the rolling countryside at Buckinghamshire’s Peterley Manor Farm, Run Club x Slohaus Wild Spa brings a bi-weekly mix of sociable running and restorative outdoor wellness.

The experience takes place on selected Saturdays, starting with a relaxed 5–8km group run through the Chilterns countryside, followed by a recovery session designed to help you properly reset.

Leaders set an inclusive, steady pace that keeps the runs accessible for regular runners and newcomers alike, with a clear focus on community over competition.

Afterwards, you head back to the wild spa for wood-fired sauna sessions and cold-water immersion – a simple but effective contrast therapy that helps you recharge.

Each session runs from 8am to 10am.

Tickets cost £20 per person, with each experience lasting around two hours.

For more information or to book, visit Slohaus Wild Spa’s website.

10 of the best places to go fruit picking – within easy reach of London

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

From sun-ripened strawberries to pumpkin-filled autumn fields, these pick-your-own farms near London offer the ultimate seasonal day out – with plenty of fresh air, flavour, and countryside charm.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about picking your own produce straight from the source. Whether it’s a punnet of perfectly ripe strawberries, a bunch of vibrant wildflowers, or a wheelbarrow-worthy pumpkin in autumn.

And fortunately, you don’t have to travel far from the capital to find some of the UK’s best pick-your-own (PYO) experiences. Across Surrey, Oxfordshire and beyond, farms are opening their gates each season to welcome visitors into their fields.

So whether you’re planning a wholesome weekend activity, entertaining little ones, or simply chasing the taste of fruit at its freshest, these PYO farms deliver a seasonal experience that’s as enjoyable as it is delicious.

Fruit picking in Surrey

Garson Farm, Esher

If you’re after a pick-your-own experience that really delivers, Garsons Farm more than earns its award-winning reputation. Crowned ‘Pick Your Own of the Year’ at the 2025 Farm Retail Association Awards, it’s a go-to for top-quality produce and beautifully kept fields.

Spanning an impressive 155 acres, and farmed by the same Thompson family since 1871, it’s one of the UK’s largest PYO sites. Expect row upon row of vibrant crops – from juicy strawberries to colourful flowers – with around 30 varieties to choose from across the season. PYO typically kicks off in late spring, just in time for those first sweet harvests of the year.

Crockford Bridge Farm, Addleston

Steeped in history (it even gets a mention in the Domesday Book!), Crockford Bridge Farm blends heritage with a seriously good seasonal offering. Set across 80 acres of Surrey green belt, this family-run spot is a firm favourite for good reason.

There’s always something new to pick from June through to December – think sun-warmed strawberries and raspberries in summer, followed by pumpkin patches and winter squashes as the seasons turn. And whatever you do, don’t leave without stopping by its ice cream parlour – the perfect end to a day in the fields.

Secretts of Milford, Godalming

A staple of Surrey’s food scene is Secretts. Just outside Godalming, this award-winning farm is known for its lively events, beautifully maintained fields, and seriously fresh, seasonal food.

Depending on the time of year, you can wander through fields picking everything from asparagus and rhubarb to pumpkins – all harvested just metres from where you stand. Afterwards, the farm shop is a must-visit – especially the cheese counter, which boasts more than 300 varieties (yes, really).

Priory Farm Estate, Redhill

Looking to turn your fruit picking into a full day out? Priory Farm Estate has you covered.

Alongside seasonal PYO fields, you’ll find woodland trails, nature-inspired play areas, and plenty of space to roam. Kids can run wild, and adults can slow down – ideally with a basket full of fresh produce in hand.

Fruit picking in Oxfordshire

Rectory Farm PYO, Oxford

Rectory Farm has been feeding Oxfordshire (and beyond) for generations – and its PYO offering is just as impressive as you’d expect.

With 45 acres dedicated to pick-your-own crops – plus a further 60 acres of asparagus fields nearby – there’s plenty to explore. From April through to October, the fields come alive with more than 30 varieties, from spring asparagus and strawberries to late-summer sunflowers and autumn pumpkins (with thousands planted each year).

Fruit picking in Buckinghamshire & Berkshire

Peterley Manor Farm, Great Missenden

Tucked away in the Chilterns, Peterley Manor Farm feels like a proper countryside escape. Family-run and full of charm, it offers a relaxed, scenic setting for a spot of seasonal picking.

Depending on when you visit, you might find yourself gathering plums, strawberries, or redcurrants in the sunshine – or wandering through fields of sunflowers and pumpkins later in the year. Come Christmas, it transforms again, with rows of beautifully grown trees ready to take home.

Copas Farms, Cookham/Iver

If variety is what you’re after, Copas Farms – operating as The Fruit Fields – is hard to beat. With multiple sites and a well-planned growing calendar, it offers a steady stream of crops throughout the seasons.

From the first strawberries and cherries of early summer to raspberries, apples, sweetcorn and more, there’s always something worth picking. It’s a reliably good choice for those who like their PYO trips easy, well-organised, and packed with flavour.

Fruit picking in Hampshire

Pickwell Farm, Bursledon

A much-loved local spot just outside Southampton, Pickwell Farm has been welcoming visitors since 1985.

The picking calendar is packed with variety, from early rhubarb and strawberries to late-summer sweetcorn and autumn pumpkins. In between, expect everything from raspberries and blackberries to courgettes and beans – perfect for filling your basket (and your kitchen) with fresh, seasonal produce.

Goodall’s Strawberry Farm, Lymington

For a more traditional, no-frills PYO experience, Goodall’s Strawberry Farm is a south coast classic.

Best known for its beautifully grown strawberries, this is the place to come on a sunny day when only the freshest, sweetest fruit will do. Simple and seasonal!

Fruit picking in Wiltshire

Lotmead Pick Your Own, Wanborough

Friendly, relaxed, and easy to visit, Lotmead PYO is a great all-rounder for families and casual pickers.

Fields are well-kept and full of variety, with strawberries and raspberries in summer giving way to pumpkins as autumn rolls in. Whether you’re planning a wholesome day out or just popping by for a punnet or two, it’s a lovely spot to soak up the seasons.

Peppa Pig Live is back in a brand new ‘oinktastic’ stage show

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

Peppa Pig and her family prepare for an oinktastic day of fun, as the world-famous pig appears live on stage at Wycombe Swan, in April 2026.

Join Peppa and – for the very first-time – baby Evie, as they embark on their latest adventure in Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show when it appears on stage at the Wycombe Swan in April 2026.

With a new arrival on the way the whole family are busy getting ready. With building and decorating work to be done, it’s an oinktastic makeover and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the arrival of baby Evie!

There’s so much to do – will they get it all finished in time?

With performances on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 April 2026, the show is packed full of songs, laughter, and interactive fun, it’s the perfect introduction to theatre for little ones.

Bringing Peppa and friends to life is a talented cast of actors, singers and puppeteers including Charlie Culkin, Cinem Gopaul, Cate Brookes and real-life married couple Emma Hilts and David Tudor.

The production is directed and co-adapted by Richard Lewis, who said: “It’s a new era for Peppa and her family as we introduce Baby Evie alongside Peppa, her friends and family to a live theatre audience, in a show that brings a heart-warming and relatable new story, packed full of fun, to life.”  

For more information or to book tickets, visit trafalgartickets.com.

Haringtons crowned Salon Group of the Year at UK hair awards

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

A Buckinghamshire-based salon group has scooped one of the industry’s biggest accolades at a prestigious London awards ceremony.

Haringtons Hairdressing – which has salons in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Maidenhead, Marlow, Wendover, Winchester and Wokingham – has been named Salon Group of the Year at The Hair Awards – The Cut 2026.

The ceremony, sponsored by Revlon, took place at The Standard Hotel and brought together some of the most talented names in the hairdressing industry.

The award recognises consistent excellence across all Haringtons salons, with judges highlighting the group’s strong focus on customer service, creativity and tailored client experiences.

A spokesperson for the group said the win reflects the dedication of the entire team, from stylists to front-of-house staff.

“Every client experience matters to us. We take time to understand what people want and make sure they leave feeling confident and cared for – that’s always been at the heart of what we do,” they said.

Alongside technical skill and creativity, this personalised approach was a key factor in securing the national title.

Haringtons also thanked its loyal clients for their continued support, which has helped the business grow and innovate across all seven locations.

The group is no stranger to supporting its local communities, too.

Its Beaconsfield salon has previously launched initiatives such as the Community Chair, inviting residents to nominate local heroes for a complimentary salon experience – highlighting the brand’s commitment to giving back as well as delivering high-quality hairdressing.

Founded on a blend of expertise and a welcoming atmosphere, Haringtons has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading salon groups, offering clients a premium yet personal experience across the region.

Two epic UK events set to ignite Silverstone and Goodwood

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Japanese cars of simply looking for an adrenaline-pumping day out, Japfest 2026 delivers two standout events that capture the spirit, creativity and excitement of automotive culture at its very best.

Mark your calendars – Japfest is back for 2026 with not one but two celebrations of Japanese automotive passion.

Taking over both Silverstone Circuit in spring and Goodwood Motor Circuit in autumn, this year’s events promise bigger thrills and louder engines than ever before.

The action kicks off at Silverstone on Sunday 19 April, where Japfest cements its reputation as Europe’s largest Japanese car show.

With more than 3,500 display cars and around 25,000 visitors expected, it’s a must-visit for enthusiasts of everything from classic icons to cutting-edge modified builds.

The famous circuit will host high-speed track sessions, while drift demonstrations promise to keep the crowds on edge with tyre-smoking precision.

One of the headline attractions is the Drift Kings sessions, featuring some of the UK’s most skilled drivers, including Steve ‘Baggsy’ Biagioni.

Visitors can also experience drift taxi rides and meet drivers while soaking up the buzzing atmosphere.

New for 2026, ‘The Grid’ show and shine competition celebrates standout craftsmanship, while ‘The Great Unveilings’ will showcase never-before-seen custom builds.

The excitement continues on Saturday 3 October at Goodwood, where Japfest brings it energy to one of Britain’s best motorsport venues. This year introduces a fresh format, welcoming all Japanese cars with no age restrictions – making it a true celebration of JDM culture.

Expect a full day of live-action entertainment, from drifting and drag racing to impressive stunt displays. With everything from lowriders to flying trucks, the spectacle is designed to thrill both die-hard petrolheads and curious newcomers.

The historic surroundings of Goodwood provide a brilliant backdrop for a high-octane event packed with sound, smoke and four-wheel entertainment.

For full event details, advance discounted tickets and updates, visit japfest.co.uk/silverstone and keep an eye on their social media for special announcements and prizes.

10 perfect picnic spots across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

From riverside lawns in Marlow to peaceful corners near Henley and wide-open parkland with far-reaching views, these are our favourite local spots to roll out a blanket and make the most of the warmer months.

With sunnier days upon us, it’s the perfect excuse to slow things down, grab the factor 50, pack up a few sandwiches and head outdoors.

Whether you’re planning a last-minute lunch, a family day out or a catch-up with friends, these picnic spots across our patch offer just the right mix of scenery, space and fresh air.

Cliveden, Buckinghamshire

A standout National Trust estate, Cliveden combines sweeping terraces, woodland walks and beautifully maintained gardens overlooking the River Thames. There’s plenty of space to explore, with quieter corners to settle in for a picnic with a view.

It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a full afternoon wandering before finding the perfect spot to pause and take it all in.

Higginson Park, Buckinghamshire

Set along the Thames in the heart of Marlow, Higginson Park is a firm local favourite. With open green space, riverside views and easy access to the town’s cafés and delis, it’s an effortless choice for a relaxed picnic.

Watch the boats drift past, enjoy the lively atmosphere and make the most of one of the area’s most scenic town parks.

Greys Court, Oxfordshire

Just outside Henley, Greys Court offers a quieter, more secluded setting. With its orchard, wildflower meadows and gentle woodland walks, it’s ideal for those looking to escape the busier spots.

It’s a peaceful place to unwind, with plenty of tucked-away areas perfect for a leisurely picnic.

Dinton Pastures Country Park, Berkshire

Dinton Pastures Country Park is a popular choice for group outings, thanks to its mix of lakes, open fields and walking routes.

There’s ample room to spread out, whether you’re bringing a picnic for family and friends or planning a full day outdoors exploring the trails and waterside paths.

Basildon Park, Berkshire

Set within rolling parkland, Basildon Park offers far-reaching countryside views and a classic picnic backdrop.

With wide open spaces and historic surroundings, it’s a great option for those who enjoy a slower pace and a more scenic setting for their outdoor lunch.

Shotover Country Park, Oxfordshire

Just outside Oxford, Shotover Country Park combines woodland trails with elevated viewpoints across the city and beyond.

It’s a great choice if you fancy pairing your picnic with a walk, with plenty of space to explore before settling in at one of the higher vantage points.

Windsor Great Park, Berkshire

Spanning vast areas of open land, ancient woodland and landscaped scenery, Windsor Great Park offers no shortage of picnic spots.

Whether you’re looking for wide grassy expanses or quieter shaded areas, it’s easy to find your own peaceful corner away from the main paths.

Black Park Country Park, Buckinghamshire

Surrounded by woodland and centred around a large lake, Black Park Country Park is a great option on warmer days.

With shaded areas, walking trails and open clearings, it’s a relaxed, natural setting that works well for both short visits and longer stays.

Cookham Common, Berkshire

Offering open grassland along the Thames, Cookham Common is a classic riverside spot with plenty of space to unwind.

There are scenic walking routes nearby too, making it easy to combine a gentle stroll with a relaxed picnic in a laid-back setting that feels quintessentially local.

Henley-on-Thames riverside, Oxfordshire

Sometimes the simplest option is the best. The riverside in Henley-on-Thames offers one of the prettiest picnic backdrops in the area, with rowers gliding past and plenty of spots to pause along the water’s edge.

Bring a blanket, settle in and enjoy one of Oxfordshire’s most charming views.

Cookham author launches children’s book inspired by the Thames

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

In an exciting new chapter for author and mum Amanda Boulding, Save Our River! has been published by The Lela Initiative as the first title in a new children’s series, The Willow Bank Tales.

For those living in Cookham and Marlow, the River Thames is a familiar and much-loved presence, winding gently through the landscape. Now it has become the inspiration for a new picture book carrying an important message for young readers.

Amanda’s Save Our River! is a gentle yet hopeful story aimed at Reception and Key Stage 1 children.

The book follows a family of otters who discover pollution flowing into their peaceful backwater. In one of the story’s most striking moments, the animals gather white shells and arrange them on the riverbank to spell out a powerful message: “SAVE OUR RIVER!”

Living close to the Thames in Cookham, Amanda has drawn heavily on the wildlife that can be spotted along the river locally. The pages are filled with her hand-drawn illustrations of willow-lined banks, darting kingfishers and, of course, the otters at the heart of the tale.

The book also marks a significant milestone for Amanda, who has recently signed with the publishing house The Lela Initiative. Save Our River! is the first title in the forthcoming series The Willow Bank Tales, which will introduce young readers to stories inspired by river life.

At its heart, the story celebrates teamwork, courage and caring for the places we love – a message that will resonate with families living along this treasured stretch of the Thames.

Save Our River! is available now from bookshops in Henley and Marlow.

For more information, visit amandaboulding.com.

‘Working at The Beacon feels very much like coming home’ – meet the Amersham headmaster making a difference

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

Amersham-raised Nick Baker returned to the area in 2022 to become headmaster of The Beacon School. As the prep prepares to welcome girls for the first time, he shares his thoughts on local life, education and the community he calls home.

Raised in Amersham, Nick Baker is headmaster of The Beacon School, a boys’ prep school. Since joining in 2022, he has focused on strengthening relationships, enhancing facilities and guiding pupils through their school journey – and soon, welcoming girls to the school as well.

Round & About speaks to Nick about family life and the local area, from his favourite independent businesses and restaurants to the exciting developments ahead at the school.

Hello Nick, please tell us about yourself!

I’m married to Brigid, also a teacher, and we have two sons, Patrick and Joseph. We’ve lived in Berkhamsted since leaving London when Patrick was born 20 years ago.

I grew up in Amersham and many of my friends and family still live in the area. Working at The Beacon feels very much like coming home.

Where did you go to school?

I went to Dr Challoner’s where many of our pupils transition to at the end of their time here. It was a great experience, from both an academic and social point of view. The head during my time, the legendary John Loarridge, ultimately became a good friend and a mentor as my career developed. On my 13th birthday, during school assembly, Mr Loarridge asked to see me in his study immediately after.

I was very nervous and worried about what I’d done wrong… but he simply wanted to give me a birthday card, containing a book voucher, as we shared the same birthday. We then exchanged birthday cards every year up until his passing in 2020. He was a truly great man, superb company and an inspiration as an educationalist.

What is your favourite local business?

JPS Stationers in Chesham – the owner is a massive Tintin fan, like me, and stocks all sorts of memorabilia.

I still read the books to this day, and I have all manner of posters and objects around my house and office.

What about your favourite local restaurant?

Laurie Gear, head chef and owner of The Artichoke in Old Amersham, is a great friend of The Beacon and judges our annual cooking competitions.

Dining at his restaurant is a truly special culinary experience.

Are you a member of any local groups?

My boys and I are Watford season ticket holders, and I am a governor of Watford Grammar School for Boys.

What do you most love about where you live?

Many of my school friends have moved back to Bucks and many of our parent body are old boys and local people; it’s not difficult to see why.

The beauty and tranquillity of the countryside here, yet still being able to access the vibrant urban areas of London and Oxford within the hour means you have the perfect work-life balance.

Tell us about some highlights you’re looking forward to at the school later this year

We’ve recently announced that, after 93 years of being all boys, The Beacon will be welcoming girls into our school from this year (in nursery) and through the rest of the school in 2027.

The excitement from my colleagues, our parents and the boys is palpable, and the school is alive with the opportunities to excel and develop the school in new areas – bring on the girls!

For more information about The Beacon School, visit beaconschool.co.uk.

Buckinghamshire’s ‘Garden Fairy’ launches third book

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

Since we last interviewed Anya Lautenbach, AKA “The Garden Fairy”, she has been appointed a National Garden Scheme ambassador – now, she’s just published her third book.

For gardeners of all levels, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching plants thrive under your care. Now local gardening expert and bestselling author Anya Lautenbach – known to her many followers as “Anya the Garden Fairy” – has distilled that joy and know-how into her latest book, The Money-Saving Gardener Containers.

The new guide shows how anyone can create a beautiful container garden all year-round without spending a fortune.

Whether you have a windowsill, balcony, courtyard or patio, Anya demonstrates how pots can become “little gardens that anyone can own,” bringing nature closer even in the smallest spaces.

Packed with practical advice, the book explores everything from choosing containers and repurposing everyday household items as planters to growing plants from seed, cuttings and free propagation.

Seasonal projects offer inspiration throughout the year – from cheerful spring bulbs to winter paperwhites – alongside tips on saving money on essentials like compost and water.

For Anya, gardening has always been about more than plants. Growing up in Poland, she remembers her family cultivating flowers and crops in pots on their balcony, learning to waste nothing and find happiness in simple things. After moving to the UK, container plants became a portable way of creating a sense of home wherever she lived.

Now based in Buckinghamshire, her own garden has flourished through years of propagation and thrifty techniques; knowledge she shares with more than a million followers online. Her work also highlights the wellbeing benefits of gardening, something she advocates through her writing and social media.

With inspiring displays for every season and practical guidance, The Money-Saving Gardener Containers proves that creating a thriving garden doesn’t have to cost the earth – just a little creativity, patience and love of growing.

For more information, visit anyalautenbach.com.

Discover National Garden Scheme spaces open near you

Zoe Gater

buckinghamshire

Need some inspiration for your garden? Visit an NGS garden near you, as part of another record-breaking fundraising year thanks to the National Garden Scheme.

Every year, thousands of people up and down the country open their gates to their gardens, their pride and joy, lovingly crafted and tended to, ready to welcome in visitors who come to marvel at their handiwork, pick up tips and no doubt, copy a few ideas – all to raise some funds for the charities supported by the National Garden Scheme.

Find out which ones are open near you to explore and make the most of the brighter days.