Discover a New Way of Living at Henley Manor’s Taster Day

Round & About

Posted on

henley

Start the New Year by exploring a fresh approach to care, comfort and community at Hallmark Henley Manor. Families, friends and anyone curious about luxury care home living are warmly invited to pop in for their Taster Day on Saturday 24th January.  Stop by whenever is convenient between 10am – 1pm and enjoy a relaxed opportunity to discover what life in this award-winning home is really like.

Guests will have the chance to sit back, unwind and take in the surroundings while enjoying a selection of delicious nibbles prepared by the hospitality team. The event offers time to stroll through their beautiful and homely spaces, chat with friendly team members and experience the warm, vibrant atmosphere that residents enjoy every day.

Whether exploring care options for a loved one or simply looking to understand more about the lifestyle and support available, you may be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

“Our bighearted approach to care means you’ll always have the support you need to live your life to the fullest,” says James Morl, Customer Relationship Manager. “Our Taster Day is the perfect way to experience this for yourself—come along, see the home, meet the team and get a chance to see what life is really like here.”

RSVP today to reserve a place.
Contact James Morl, Customer Relationship Manager
Visit: hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk/henley-manor
Call: 01491 378 010
Find at: Hallmark Henley Manor, Mill Lane, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 4HD

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Let there be light! 

Round & About

Posted on

henley

Round & About

The Illuminated Boat Parade, Henley’s most dazzling night is back on Saturday, 20th September; could you help save the highlight? 

Get ready for one of Henley’s most enchanting traditions which returns at 7.30pm on 20th September! This magical annual event invites boats of every size, age, and style – powered or unpowered – to join a sparkling flotilla on the Thames. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just love a good spectacle, this is your chance to be part of a truly unforgettable evening. 

Picture Credit: Stuart Bailey

The parade was founded by Chris Taylor, entrepreneur and co-creator of Polly Pocket, who first lit up the river in Cookham in 2015. What started with just ten boats and a trip to the local pub, is now an event that has grown into a highlight of Henley’s calendar, bringing together families, friends, and boating enthusiasts from across the region. 

Last year, about 50 boats, each beautifully decorated and imaginatively themed, captivated 3,000 spectators. This year promises to be even bigger and brighter. The flotilla will set sail from Fawley Meadows, travel up to Henley Bridge, and complete a second lap, with buildings and homes along the route illuminated in vibrant colours. It’s a free event for all spectators and a beloved tradition for many families.“Boat entry is now open and there are wonderful prizes to be won so the organisers would encourage everyone to get creative and register now to secure your place. A panel of celebrity judges, including Dame Mary Berry, Debbie McGee and Edd China, based at the historic Leander Club will select the winners.  The club opens its doors to the public for the prize-giving ceremony. Peter O’Hanlon, the Voice of World Rowing, will be the compere and commentator for the evening. 

Enjoy delicious food and drinks from the bars and food trucks on site. Whether you’re taking part in the parade or coming down to watch, it’s a full night of entertainment for all ages. 

The Illuminated Boat Parade is also about giving back with all net profits going to charity. Chris says: “This year we’re once again supporting The Rivertime Boat Trust, a wonderful organisation that offers disabled and disadvantaged adults, children and young people an opportunity to develop a long-term involvement with the Thames, by providing a safe, supportive and stimulating environment aboard the charity’s boat Rivertime.   

“This cherished event relies on community support, and this year we’re grateful to our special partners: Phyllis Court Club and Blue Peak, O’Brien Real Estate, The Relais, Toad Hall, Dallas & Co Solicitors, Pokhara Delight, Blanchards Law Ltd, Henley Town Council, Hobbs of Henley, Henley Royal Regatta, Leander Club, and Pink Spaghetti. If you or your business would like to help keep this magical tradition alive, please get in touch. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.” 

Ready to light up? Register your boat now, plan your theme, and bring your friends and family for a night of community, creativity, and fun.

Visit illuminatedparade.com, see social media or email lights@illuminatedparade.com

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Small Towns, Big Wins: Ace Places Is Changing the Game

Round & About

Posted on

henley

Knowl Hill entrepreneur Emma Sweet is enjoying success in spades with her playing cards Ace Spaces

Ace Places Playing Cards Scoop National Award Nominations

Ace Places playing cards, the beautifully illustrated town-themed decks, are proving to be a winning hand for creator Emma Sweet. Designed to highlight independent businesses, hidden gems, and local legends, these cards bring Henley and Marlow to life in a fun, interactive way.

What began as a creative way to promote local pride has now turned into a nationally celebrated initiative. In 2025, Emma Sweet has been named a finalist in three major national awards, including the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards where she is shortlisted for Start-Up Entrepreneur of the Year.

Championing Community Through Ace Places Playing Cards

The Ace Places playing cards help residents and visitors alike discover towns in a fresh, playful format. Each card showcases a unique spot or business, encouraging people to shop local and explore with purpose.

Emma shared:

“It’s an incredible honour to be recognised. This journey has always been about celebrating small businesses and creating community connection—one card at a time.”

In addition to the British Entrepreneur Awards, Emma and Ace Places are also finalists in the UK StartUp Awards (South East) and have received two nominations in the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Awards for Most Promising New Business and Excellence in Innovation.

Turning Every Shuffle Into a Local Adventure

With more packs planned for new towns, Emma’s goal is simple:
“To turn every game into an adventure, every shuffle into a discovery, and every hand into a celebration of the vibrant spirit of each town.”

For more information about Ace Places, please visit here.

Ace Places continues to grow—offering a fun, beautifully designed way to support and explore communities.

To read more about your area, click here.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Henley Festival 2025 Reveals RISE Stage Talent

Round & About

Posted on

henley

Henley Festival, presented by Westcoast, is proud to unveil the outstanding ‘RISE’ line-up of emerging talent set to perform at this year’s event. The festival returns to the stunning Thames riverside for five unforgettable summer evenings from 9–13 July

The UK’s only black-tie music and arts festival returns to the Thames from 9–13 July with a spectacular mix of world-class music, comedy, cabaret, art, food, and fireworks. But Henley Festival is more than a magical night out… It’s a launchpad for the next generation of talent through its pioneering RISE programme.

RISE Stage

Now in its fourth year, RISE gives emerging musicians, visual artists, and backstage professionals a unique platform to perform, exhibit, and learn. Supported by industry leaders, RISE offers funding, mentoring, and career opportunities to outstanding new creatives from across the UK.

The 2025 RISE music line-up spans pop, jazz, folk, indie and classical. Headlined by Westcoast RISING Star Award-winner Hetta Falzon, a Manchester-based singer-songwriter known for her emotionally rich, genre-blending sound. Other acts include R&B vocalist Leila McKenzie, jazz-pop artist Darcy Winter, folk singer Jonny Morgan, South London’s Naima Adams, indie rockers The White Lakes, and more. Culminating with Irish singer-songwriter Conor McLain on Sunday.

Headliners

Henley Festival McFly
Henley Festival 2025 Headliner – McFly

In addition to the RISE line-up, year’s headliners include Diana Ross, McFly, Rick Astley, Matteo Bocelli, Jamie Cullum, Haçienda Classical, Jo Whiley’s Festival Anthems, Yolanda Brown: Bob Marley Songbook and Ellie Sax. Plus comedy from Ed Byrne, Ivo Graham, Matt Forde, Rob Auton and Alistair McGowan. There’s also a packed Family Day ‘Playdate’ to entertain little ones of every age and stage.

Henley Festival 2025 Dianna Ross
Henley Festival 2025 Headliner – Dianna Ross
Henley Festival 2025 Headliner – Haçienda Classical

Not just music…

Visual art also takes centre stage with the new RISE by Henley Festival Emerging Artist Prize. The winner, Raoul Orzabal, and runners-up Curtis Chan and Susan Kellaway will exhibit their work in the Audi High RISE Gallery, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary painting.

RISE continues to build creative futures! Working with colleges and academies to discover and support exceptional young talent, and offering them an inspiring stage to shine.

Purchase your tickets here.

Find more Activities & Events in Oxfordshire

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Opera Prelude’s Henley highlight, 21st March

Liz Nicholls

Posted on

henley

Liz Nicholls

Join Will Diggle, 11am-1pm, on Friday, 21st March at The Christ Church for Love and Hate: The Complex Relationship of Soprano and Tenor in Opera

Tenor Will Diggle will explore the dynamic – and often tumultuous – relationships between soprano and tenor leads for this highlight at The Christ Church, RG9 1AG.

This will include duets and arias from operas such as Puccini’s Tosca, Donizetti’s L’Elisir d’Amore, Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Tickets are £30pp.

For almost 15 years, Opera Prelude has nurtured a network of talented emerging artists with extraordinary stories to tell.  Unlike other early career programmes, Opera Prelude is dedicated to working with singers whose interests extend beyond classical singing and to supporting them holistically.

Opera Prelude understands that talent is where the artist’s journey begins, but that a successful career in the arts requires so much more than a “beautiful voice”. From helping singers with self-promotion and career advice, to fostering their needs for a sustainable work-life balance or being a listening ear when the journey seems too hard, Opera Prelude is a true musical family.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Rebecca’s Well Woman Yoga in Henley

Liz Nicholls

Posted on

henley

Liz Nicholls

, , , , , , , , , ,

Yoga teacher Rebecca Dobson is on a mission to help navigate stress with Well Woman Yoga Therapy & Goddess Gatherings in Henley

Women are renowned for juggling numerous responsibilities, leaving little time for self care. Rebecca understands this, and in the midst of all these demands, Well Woman Yoga emerges as a sanctuary for nurturing women’s health and wellbeing. Rebecca Dobson, an experienced yoga teacher and therapist and founder of GetCalmer, stands at the forefront of this holistic practice, offering a transformative experience grounded in her extensive expertise.

Rebecca brings more than 18 years of yoga teaching experience and 23 years of proficiency in Reiki and massage therapy. Her comprehensive understanding of women’s health, coupled with her therapeutic skills, provide a unique and deeply restorative approach through her weekly Well Woman Yoga classes and monthly Goddess Gatherings in Henley. Well Woman Yoga is designed specifically for women, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health. This practice combines gentle asanas, breathwork, and relaxation to support women’s well-being throughout different life stages – from menstruation to menopause and beyond.

“Unlike traditional yoga practices, Well Woman Yoga integrates therapeutic techniques that consider the unique needs of women’s bodies and minds,” Rebecca tells us. “Physically, these classes help to alleviate many common issues such as hormonal imbalances, pelvic floor issues and menopausal symptoms. The postures are tailored to enhance flexibility, strength, and balance, promoting overall vitality and comfort. Regular practice can lead to improved circulation, better posture, and reduced tension, contributing to a healthier, more resilient body through all major life cycles. The practice also offers significant emotional and mental benefits.”

Her classes create a calming space where women can reconnect with themselves, fostering deep relaxation and emotional balance, which helps manage stress. Rebecca’s personal journey through various life stages has been supported by yoga and Reiki, shaping her approach to teaching. Her classes are more than just physical exercises; they are a celebration of women’s health, offering a holistic experience that addresses the entire spectrum of wellbeing.

With her extensive background in therapeutic practices, Rebecca’s guidance provides a compassionate and informed approach to addressing women’s health challenges.

For more information about Well Women Yoga in Henley, private one-to-one sessions and Reiki courses, treatments, email rebecca@getcalmer.com or visit GetCalmer.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Rebecca offers yoga retreats both in the UK and abroad, designed to promote women’s health and wellbeing on a deeper level.

Latest posts

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Illuminated Boat Parade on the Thames

Round & About

Posted on

henley

The annual Illuminated Boat Parade is set to light up the Thames on Saturday, 14th September, bringing the community together, Claire Knott invites us all along

The Illuminated Boat Parade is an annual event for any boat, any size, any age providing a fun evening for the community.

Last year around 50 boats, powered and unpowered, participated watched by over 3,000 spectators. There were all kinds of themes including the Mamma Mia Abba all singing all dancing crew, a 15ft illuminated octopus for the Under the Sea theme, butterflies, pirates, and even a 7ft penguin accompanied by many other penguins, some singing and dancing overlooked by an enormous polar bear (ok, that was the crew). Many boat owners were so impressed they said they were going to ‘up their game’ this year.

A panel of judges will decide on the trophy winners. This year we have introduced an award for the Funniest Theme and there’s even a prize for the Best Lit Spectator! So, start planning now – get your thinking caps on and come up with a great idea for your boat. Everyone who takes part says it’s a magical evening, participants and spectators, so come on down and enjoy the magic.

The exclusive, historic Leander Club will open its doors to the public for one night, so everyone can come in and see the prize-giving. There will also be bars and food trucks with refreshments, truly a full evening of entertainment for the whole family.

For more on the event and how to enter, please visit Illuminatedparade, Facebook: Henley Parade, Instagram: @thehenleyparade and email: lights@illuminatedparade.com

Latest posts

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Do you dig Greys Court?

Round & About

Posted on

henley

As part of this month’s Festival of Archaeology, archaeologists from the National Trust and South Oxfordshire Archaeology Group will investigate some of Greys Court’s fascinating buried archaeology. Katy Dunn tells us more…

The known history of Greys Court, between Henley and Rotherfield Greys, stretches back over 900 years, with the earliest known record being the Domesday Book of 1086. The de Grey family constructed the original manor house on the site, and early historic fabric survives, notably the Great Tower and adjacent wall fragments, dating from the 12th-14th centuries.

The archaeologists will examine the evidence of a series of “parch-marks” which are revealed on Greys Court’s oval lawn in particularly dry weather. These hint at a courtyard wall with a possible gatehouse structure. There were also other buildings on the site, now demolished. The team will also be guided by a geophysics survey across the lawn.

National Trust archaeologist Adrian Cox said: “We are hoping to add to our knowledge of the fascinating early history of Greys Court. We have a range of information already, including aerial photographs and the evidence of an 19th-century engraving depicting the site and showing its courtyard walls. We want to better understand the medieval and post-medieval layouts of the manor, so that we can give visitors a more accurate picture of how it looked in the past. We are aiming to give visitors close access to this archaeological research as it unfolds on site.”

The National Trust is proud to support the Council for British Archaeology (CBA) Festival of Archaeology, the UK’s biggest annual celebration of archaeology.

Shannon Hogan, National Archaeologist with the National Trust said “We’re delighted to be working with Council for British Archaeology on the Festival Archaeology at the places we care for. Archaeological experiences and activities offer opportunities for more people to find ways to connect with and learn about their local history and heritage. The Festival of Archaeology helps us deliver more for communities by uniting children and adults alike in a range of heritage activities and events.”

Archaeologists will be working at Greys Court from 15th to 21st July, and will be very happy to speak with visitors and explain the work and there may be opportunities to get involved.

To find more National Trust Festival of Archaeology events, visit Festival of Archaeology 2024 | National Trust

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Henley Symphony Orchestra summer concert

Round & About

Posted on

henley

Enjoy a delightful evening of music in Henley in the company of Greig, Weber & Shostakovich

The beautiful surroundings of St Mary’s Church are the setting for Henley Symphony Orchestra’s summer concert on Saturday, 29th June, 7.30pm.

The concert will be led by guest conductor Jacques Cohen, Principal Conductor of the Royal College of Music Junior Department Symphony Orchestra and Lloyd’s of London Choir.

Emma Johnson is one of the few clarinettists to have established a career as a solo performer, after winning the BBC Young Musician of the Year at the age of 17. She has appeared as soloist with many of the world’s leading orchestras, playing all the major clarinet works as well as special commissions.

She will play Grieg Peer Gynt: No.1, Weber Clarinet Concerto No.2 and Shostakovich Symphony No.9.

Greig found it difficult to write the music for Peer Gynt after being asked to do so by Ibsen. Greig himself said the Hall of the Mountain King, now the theme music for Alton Towers, ‘reeked of cowpats’.

Weber’s interest in the clarinet began in 1811, when he met Heinrich Baermann, the greatest clarinettist in Germany, for whom he composed two concertos.

Shostakovich wrote his Ninth Symphony in 1945 after Russia’s defeat of Hitler. It should have been a glorious ode to Stalin and Russia’s heroes, but instead Shostakovich seemed to make fun of the leader.

Tickets, £22 reserved; £20/£18 unreserved; £10 for U16s/students, by phone 07726 459261 or via Contact Henley Symphony Orchestra, Henley-on-Thames

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter:

Peppard writer’s inspirational love letter

Round & About

Posted on

henley

Peppard writer Glenn Bryant has just published his first novel available now in The Bell Bookshop in Henley and Fourbears Books in Caversham

What would you do to survive if you were suddenly arrested in your own home? That’s the question posed by local author Glenn Bryant in his debut novel, Darkness Does Not Come At Once.

Four years ago he began writing inspired by a lifelong interest in the Holocaust and the question: how could ordinary people do something, in the worst sense beyond imagination, so extraordinary? Glenn learnt specifically how people with disabilities were targeted and says he knew he always wanted to write about that in this psychological thriller set on the edge of Berlin, 85 years ago.

He explains: “That deeper societal question was my motivation. My inspiration was Juliet, my wife, who has a spinal cord injury and a level of paralysis. We’re so happy together. My novel, at its heart, is simply a love letter to her.”

A “love letter” which on many occasions Juliet was unaware Glenn was writing as he would take to his keyboard first thing in the morning while she was still sleeping.

“Setting out to write a book is a commitment. It’s unavoidable. But… You can commit to it on your terms. I wrote three days a week: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the days I wasn’t working,” he says. “I was most interested in how many words I had written. I was aiming for 1,000 a day. From my document history, I can see I was writing a touch over 10,000 words a month. And in eight months, I had reached 85,000 words and the end of a first draft. Then the hard work starts.”

But having always wanted to write since he was a teenager he wasn’t deterred by rejections and knock backs from publishers and literary agents despite constantly asking himself “is your work ever going to see the light of day?”

Glenn adds: “You’re really on your own, and you feel it, so you have to be your own life coach and therapist too, and pick yourself up from the lows. But once I was through those moments, I pretty much loved the whole experience. I’m at the beginning of my journey as an author.”

And while he has plans for no more at this stage and is 100 per cent focused on this first work, he concedes: “I’m sure I will one day. You just need that gem of an idea to lodge in your head and I will be away, starting all over again with a blank Word document.”

Join Glenn for a relaxed Q&A style talk about the book on Friday 7th June, 7pm-8pm at Fourbears Books, 20 Prospect Street, Caversham. Enjoy free entry and complimentary wine when you get there.

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Choose which newsletter: