RHS Garden Showcases Medicinal Plant Magic

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RHS Healer’s Hollow explores the use of plants as medicine in a feature garden at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 

Discover RHS Healer’s Hollow: Celebrating Plant Folklore and Healing

Inspired by centuries of plant stories and traditional herbal medicine, RHS Healer’s Hollow invites visitors to reconnect with nature. This garden shows how plants have helped people’s health and wellbeing for many years. Moreover, it highlights the natural healing power of plants and old wisdom.

Meet the Creators of RHS Healer’s Hollow

Award-winning designers Emily Grayshaw and Jude Yeo from Inspired Earth Design in Godalming created this garden. After winning two gold medals and a Best in Show award at earlier RHS events, the RHS asked them to design this special garden. Their work focuses on the strong bond between people and plants, showing how nature can heal us.

Healing Stories Told Through Garden Design

The garden centres on Gaia, a wise healer who lives off the grid in a handmade shepherd’s hut. Through Gaia’s story, visitors learn about both old and new ways of using plants for health. For example, the garden is a calm space filled with plants known for their healing and traditional uses. It encourages everyone to explore natural remedies that have helped people for centuries.

A Closer Look at the Garden’s Features

Emily and Jude worked with local artists to create many garden features. These include botanical artwork, natural materials, and the handmade shepherd’s hut. Each element serves a purpose and tells part of the garden’s story. Additionally, the designers consulted a historical herbologist and a medicinal horticulture lecturer. Their expertise helped ensure the garden’s authenticity and educational value.

Bringing Healing to the Community

After the festival ends, parts of RHS Healer’s Hollow will move to Farncombe Community Garden near Godalming. This space, supported by local doctors, promotes social prescribing. It encourages patients and community members to engage with nature for better physical and mental health. In fact, their goal is to foster “growing community wellbeing” through gardens and green spaces.

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Unleash Your Imagination at West Ox Arts 2025

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Enjoy the Arts & Crafts 2025 exhibition in Bampton until 25th July, with affordable art to browse, too!

Art For All: Discover Creativity at West Ox Arts’ Art & Craft 2025

West Ox Arts (WOA) lives by the motto Art For All. This year, the West Ox Arts exhibition called Art & Craft 2025 invites you to explore a wide variety of creative work by members and friends. The exhibition showcases an exciting mix of mediums including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glasswork, jewellery, textiles, woodwork, and wirework. Together, these pieces create a vibrant celebration of artistic expression.

In addition to the main gallery, the exhibition space features a gallery shop. Here, you can purchase smaller items, such as jewellery, textiles, and art cards. These are handmade or printed from the artists’ original works.

WOA encourages visitors to meet the artists in person. This is a great chance to learn about their inspirations and connect with the creative minds behind the art. Whether you want to discover a new favourite artist or find the perfect piece for your home, this exhibition offers something for everyone. Most importantly, it invites you to enjoy the joy of artistic discovery.

Artists participating include Alison Fagg, Maggie White, Anne Lowe, Melanie Phillips, Sharon Rich, Liming Chen, Mora Abell, Chris Tebble, Kashmira Patel, Rupert Booth, Jenny Baxter, Melissa Orrom Swan, Liz Bryant, Pauline Carter, Felix Wilkinson, Jilly Wilkinson, Lynne Fisher, Neil George, Katerina Wild, Katheryn Dyche, Dinah Trowbridge, Judith Parker (Holder), Lindsay Viner, Judith Towle Jones, Ruth Gerring, Chris Dyche, Kevin Scully, Linda Benton, Esther Hepworth, and Philippa Norris.

The WOA gallery in Bampton is open 11.30am-4.30pm, Tuesday to Saturday. Admission is free and lift access is available. Click here for more information. WOA is a charitable organisation dedicated to promoting the arts in west Oxfordshire. Interested in becoming a member, exhibiting your work, or volunteering with WOA? Email the team on gallery@westoxarts.com.

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Sobell House: Tie a Ribbon, Share the Love

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Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons at Oxford’s University Parks invites you to celebrate great people in full colour, including Zach Lewis’s beloved dad Mickey

Join the Rainbow of Ribbons to Brighten Lives

Once again, the hospice team invites you to join the Rainbow of Ribbons hospice fundraiser, a heartwarming event that brings colour and joy to every person they care for. This fundraiser encourages the community to create a vibrant rainbow of ribbons, symbolising hope, remembrance, and support for Sobell House Hospice.

Remembering Mickey Lewis: A Legacy of Love

One person for whom the ribbons mean a lot is Zach Lewis. His dad, Mickey, an inspiring local footballer, manager, and coach, passed away in 2021. Zach and his wife Suzanne have shared how they keep Mickey’s legacy alive through Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons.

Suzanne says: “University Parks holds so many memories for us. Mickey coached the University of Oxford Football Team, and we often met his students there. Finding Mickey’s ribbon felt magical, like everything came full circle. Each colour has meaning, and each ribbon tells a story. Therefore, the event is not just remembrance — it’s a celebration of the man and Daddy we love.”

Hospice Heroes Taking on Challenges

Nicola Duckworth is swimming the channel in August with friends Steve and Carl. They hope to finish in under 15 hours; however, they will be happy just to complete the challenge. Living in Oxfordshire means limited sea swimming, so they train in lakes and make weekend trips to the coast. You can support Nicola here: Nicola Duckworth is fundraising for Sobell House Hospice Charity.

Similarly, in April, Ele and Graham completed a 24-hour cycle challenge in their garage and raised £2.6k. Ele previously did a swim challenge last summer in memory of her brother-in-law, Justin, and returned to support more this year.

Honouring Sandra: London to Paris Bike Ride

John Hill will ride from London to Paris on 31 July with five friends. This ride is in memory of his wife Sandra, who was cared for by the hospice community team at home in 2020. John and Sandra took on this challenge with friends in 2016. Six months later, Sandra was diagnosed with cancer. Now, John and his friends ride to remember her and raise awareness.

The Ashman Family’s Fundraising Triumph

The Ashman family recently held another spinathon, raising their total to over £12k! Upcoming events include Steve’s Tenby Ironman in September and three family members running the Oxford Half Marathon. Additionally, Pete is aiming for a place in the 2026 London Marathon. Thanks to their incredible commitment, the hospice team is deeply grateful for their ongoing support.

By making a dedication, you will help Sobell create a beautiful and moving display. Please visit here. You’re welcome at the launch event on Sunday, 20th July at University Parks, Oxford. The display will remain at the Parks until the end of August.

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Chef John’s Culinary Magic at The Greyhound Inn

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We chat to chef John Harrison who now leads the kitchen team at The Greyhound Inn in Letcombe Regis

Chef John: A Culinary Journey from Lancashire to The Greyhound Inn

John, a classically trained chef, moved from Preston in Lancashire to London in 2003. He began his apprenticeship at the National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait Restaurant, kickstarting his culinary career.

A Passion for Fine Dining and Michelin Stars

After gaining valuable experience in various fine dining venues, John honed his skills at Michelin-starred Paul Heathcote at Longridge. Later, he joined Marco Pierre White’s pub group in Oxford, followed by a Head Chef position at Newbury’s Manor House Hotel. There, he earned their second AA Rosette. After another time in London, John returned to Newbury in 2019, settling with his young family.

Simplicity, Flavour, and Tradition

“I have fond memories of my Grandma’s weekly baking: jam tarts, butter pies, and Eccles cakes,” says John. “Growing up, I admired Gary Rhodes and Marco Pierre White. Their ability to create dishes bursting with simple yet massive flavours is something I’ve always tried to replicate.”

With two AA Rosettes and an entry in the Good Food Guide, John’s cooking continues to attract attention. The Greyhound Inn, a charming pub-with-rooms, has earned a reputation for outstanding food and friendly service.

The Greyhound Inn: A Local Gem

In 2015, the Greyhound Inn reopened as a free house after being lovingly restored by Catriona Galbraith and Martyn Reed. The Grade II-listed building, along with its idyllic garden, is perfect for al fresco dining.

“I feature heritage tomatoes in my summer menus, alongside peaches and cherries,” John explains. “The oven-roasted chicken breast with chicken fat mash, slow-cooked leek, and onion is one dish I’m especially proud of. It’s the first dish I cooked here, and over time, I’ve perfected it.”

Craft Ales and Seasonal Dishes

The Greyhound Inn also offers four rotating real ales, sourced from the UK’s finest breweries. With local favourites like Butts, Ramsbury, and Little Ox, as well as seasonal ales, there’s always something new to try. The pub has won a local CAMRA award for five consecutive years, a testament to its dedication to quality brews.

John’s Guilty Pleasures and Memorable Meals

John confesses, “My guilty pleasure? Henderson Sauce on everything! We even gave it as a party favour at our wedding.” When recalling his most memorable meal, John fondly remembers dining at Trinity in Clapham: “Adam Byatt’s restaurant is phenomenal. Like Marco and Gary, he makes food taste incredible with simplicity.”

Book online and click here, pop by or call 01235 771969.

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Sun, Laughter, and Magic: Laguna Bay at Giffords Circus

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Hats off to the Giffords Circus team for delivering a joyous celebration, with plenty of 1950s sass, with their 2025 summer show

Laguna Bay: Giffords Circus’ Joyful Seaside Spectacle

Laguna Bay is this year’s glittering, seaside-themed show from Giffords Circus. Set against the backdrop of a fictional 1950s Italian holiday resort, this performance has a retro charm that’s sure to leave you grinning like a Cheshire Cat.

A World of Fun & Laughter

Giffords Circus invites you into a whimsical world where the ordinary simply doesn’t exist. From the moment you step into the big top, you’ll be immersed in a performance full of laughter, awe, and a whole lot of heart. Laguna Bay blends vintage Riviera glamour with quirky British humour, creating a spectacular atmosphere of fun and escapism. It’s exactly what we need in these times!

A Show Full of Surprises

With Laguna Bay, you’re not just watching a show—you’re part of the performance. Giffords’ intimate and eccentric theatre style brings the audience close to the action, ensuring that every moment feels personal. The show’s direction by Cal McCrystal combines physical comedy, acrobatics, and live music into a seamless blend of unpredictable delight.

The Return of Tweedy the Clown

One of the most anticipated parts of Laguna Bay is the return of Tweedy the Clown. A beloved character, Tweedy is the show’s heart and soul. His impeccable comedic timing and rapport with the audience ensure that no one leaves without a smile. Tweedy’s physical comedy makes him a national treasure, adored by both children and adults.

Dazzling Acrobats & Aerialists

While Tweedy keeps the laughs rolling, the acrobats and aerialists will leave you breathless. Their performances seem to defy physics as they twist and turn high above. Horses bring elegance and power to the ring, adding even more layers to the breathtaking spectacle.

A Mediterranean Vibe & Stunning Costumes

The Mediterranean-inspired live band provides a vibrant soundtrack that adds depth to the circus magic. And the costumes—candy-striped swimwear, vintage parasols, and sun-bleached pastels—bring a golden-age beach resort feel that immerses you completely in the performance. You’ll want to join in the fun and grab a vintage swimsuit from the dressing-up box!

Fun for Everyone

Laguna Bay has something for all ages. The humour is multi-layered, so both kids and grown-ups enjoy it equally. The slower, dreamlike moments draw you in, while the fast-paced stunts keep you on the edge of your seat. Giffords Circus is known for its focus on community and craftsmanship. You can feel the love and dedication from every performer.

A Joyous Celebration

By the end of the show, my face ached from smiling—Laguna Bay is pure joy. It’s a celebration of silliness, shared human wonder, and a much-needed reminder of the magic in life.

Catch Laguna Bay in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire between now and 28th September.

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Amersham Hospital’s Wildflower Meadow: A Hidden Oasis of Orchids

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Janey Wall praises Wild Amersham’s efforts at Amersham Hospital, including orchids!

Orchids are quietly blooming in the grounds of Amersham Hospital. They’ve sprung up on what was, until two years ago, tended lawn.

Now, thanks to Wild Amersham, the hospital is restoring native wildflower meadows on sloped areas. The move has triggered an explosion of species, some familiar, others arcane, many with fascinating folkloric associations. Bee orchids are the star attraction, named after their stunning bee-like velvety pattern, designed to lure in males to try to mate and pollinate the flower. Inches away: a pyramidal orchid. How did they get there, you may ask. As volunteer Marieke Bosman explained on a wildflower walk, the orchids’ seeds are tiny and can be carried far by wind. No human hand was involved; the orchids self-seeded.

The Chilterns’ chalky ground is also key. Described as the “rainforest of Europe”, lowland chalk grassland – if left untouched – is one of the continent’s most diverse plant communities, hosting up to 40 species per square metre. A botanist last year counted 140 species across the new patches of wildflower meadow at Amersham Hospital.

The most prolific species this year is the oxeye daisy, which is flourishing waist-high on a slope near the hospital’s new heat pump. Other species include the delicate harebell, clover and aromatic wild strawberries. There’s the curiously named ribwort plantain (not related to bananas), ploughman’s spikenard and cut-leaved cranesbill. 

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Indulge in Italy’s Best at Marlow’s Prosecco Superiore Festival

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Bucks fizz time! La Dolce Bolla in Marlow will host a two-day Fizzy Fest on 18th & 19th July, thanks to the wine bar’s owner, Prosecco pioneer Kristyna Weston

Prosecco Superiore Festival: Experience Italy’s Best Bubbles in Marlow

Did you know the UK is the third-largest consumer of Prosecco? Kristyna, who has spent years studying, working, and traveling across Italy, was already familiar with the top-quality Prosecco Superiore. However, when she returned to the UK, she couldn’t understand why Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G wasn’t easily available.

From Passion to Business: The Birth of La Dolce Bolla

Determined to change this, Kristyna set out to introduce the best Prosecco Superiore to the UK market. She founded Fizzy Happiness Ltd, and later, La Dolce Bolla, bringing some of Italy’s finest producers to the UK. Kristyna’s hard work has culminated in the launch of the UK’s first-ever Prosecco Superiore Festival in Marlow, Bucks.

What to Expect at the Prosecco Superiore Festival

On the event day, imagine a lively square in Marlow filled with Italy’s finest Prosecco and the passionate producers behind each bottle. At the festival, you’ll enjoy:

  • Live Music that will create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day
  • Masterclasses, including an exclusive one with Sarah Abbott, Master of Wine, on Friday, 18th July
  • Tasting Sessions featuring a range of Prosecco Superiore
  • Artisan Foods paired perfectly with the wines.

This event is strictly for over-18s only, and you can choose from two types of tickets:

  • Standard Tickets: £19pp, including entry, a tulip glass, and five tastings.
  • VIP Tickets: £49pp, which includes the standard benefits plus access to the exclusive Masterclass with Sarah Abbott.

Additional Attractions and Limited Tickets Available

Moreover, on 19th July, enjoy live music at Liston Court Gardens, offering a relaxing backdrop to your Prosecco experience. Tickets are limited, so make sure you secure yours today!

For more info & to book tickets, please visit here.

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Amanda Thomas and the Magic of Chilterns Handmade Candles

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Amanda Thomas, who founded Chapel House Fragrances from her kitchen table in Princes Risborough, tells us about her local loves & candle-making workshops

Discover the Magic of Chilterns Handmade Candles

Candles do more than just create a warm, rosy glow—they bring magic to any space. Chilterns handmade candles, especially the ones crafted by Amanda Thomas, offer not only beautiful light but also enchanting fragrances that transform your home. Amanda creates her candles, diffusers, and wax melts by hand in her charming converted Baptist chapel in Loosley Row.

A Passion for Crafting Chilterns Handmade Candles

For over 13 years, Amanda has combined her love of candle-making with a busy career in IT. She balances her days managing IT services with evenings dedicated to perfecting her candle creations. Amanda shares, “Our chapel has high ceilings, which makes heating a challenge, but it also gives the space character that inspires my work.” When not crafting candles, she enjoys walking the scenic Chiltern Hills, rewarding herself with coffee and cake after exploring.

From Candles to Bath Products: A Growing Range

Amanda recently won a stand at the NEC Spring Fair through Theo Paphitis’ #SBS competition. She’s excited to launch new products like soap, bath bombs, and bath salts later this year, expanding beyond Chilterns handmade candles. She also runs popular candle-making workshops at beautiful locations such as the Walled Garden in West Wycombe and Layby Farm at The Goat Centre in Stoke Mandeville.

Join a Workshop or Visit a Market

Upcoming workshops, including one on July 25th at Layby Farm, offer a hands-on experience with Chilterns handmade candles. Amanda will also participate in the Oxmoor Farm Art Exhibition from August 29th to 31st, including a candle-making workshop on the evening of the 29th. These events are perfect for anyone who wants to create their own fragrant candles or find unique gifts.

Why Chilterns Handmade Candles?

Amanda says, “I love creating fragrances that bring warmth and peace to homes. The Chilterns community is wonderful—friendly and supportive. My favorite local spot is The Greyhound in Beaconsfield, known for its delicious food and welcoming staff.” Her wish is simple: “If everyone could experience more joy and kindness, it would make a world of difference.”

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

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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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Introducing Dellfest 2025 – A Brand-New Family Festival in the Meon Valley!

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18–19 July 2025
The Dell, Meon Valley, Hampshire
Get Tickets Now »

Get ready for the very first Dellfest – Hampshire’s exciting new family-friendly summer festival, taking place in the stunning Meon Valley this July! Join us at The Dell for two unforgettable days of live music, family fun, delicious food, and vibrant summer vibes.

Festival Highlights

  • Live bands and top DJ performances
  • Local talent including steel drum groups, ukulele bands, and choirs
  • Creative kids’ zones with activities like pottery workshops and family yoga
  • Entertainment for all ages, all day long

Whether you’re coming for the music, the kids’ activities, or the local food and drink, Dellfest has something for everyone.

Food & Drink Delights

Fuel your festival experience with:

  • The Dell’s signature wood-fired pizzas
  • Street food favourites: bao buns, smash burgers, tacos, crêpes & more
  • Locally brewed ales, ciders, and wines from Hampshire producers

Ticket Information

  • Adults and Children (Ages 2–16) – General admission
  • Under 2s – Free entry
  • Dogs welcome – Must be on a lead at all times

Book Your Tickets Here »

Stay the Weekend – Camping at Cedar Valley

Make it a weekend escape! Festival goers can enjoy exclusive camping, glamping, and bell tent options just minutes from the venue at nearby Cedar Valley.

  • Available for 18–19 July 2025 (2-night minimum stay)
  • Choose from standard camping or luxury glamping
  • Use code DELLFEST25 at checkout for 5% off

Book Your Stay at Cedar Valley »

Don’t Miss Out on Dellfest 2025!

Join us in the heart of the Meon Valley for a joyful, sun-filled weekend that’s perfect for families, foodies, and festival-goers of all ages. Come for the music – stay for the magic of Dellfest.

👉 Follow @TheDellHampshire for updates and announcements!

Enjoyed hearing about Dellfest? Click HERE to read our 2025 summer festivals guide

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