Yorkshire Life (August 2024)

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Год: 2024

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THE COUNTY’S FAVOURITE MONTHLY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

A heavenly
conversion
Corrie star’s labour of
love in Scarborough

yorkshirelife.co.uk AUGUST 2024

QUIRKY
BOLTHOLES
for summer sips
KATE ATKINSON
Author’s favourite
Yorkshire places
Ramble the
HISTORIC
RIDINGS

WIN

A pair of
electric bikes
worth
£2,800

Whitby
wandering,
distilleries to
discover and
a big-view
getaway spot

Coastal
treasures
& pleasures

+ THE GLORIOUS TWELFTH AND ITS RURAL TRADITIONS

£4.99

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

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August 2024

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

WELCOME
from the editor

o, August brings us an oicial Yorkshire Day when
Park and sat by the boating lake. Brilliant, as was the
social media will be illed with puddings, iconic
concert at this fab, friendly and well organised venue.
views, tea, fat rascals, terriers and more, all in
Next morning the sun shone and by 9am we had smugly
celebration of God’s Own Country.
got in our 10k steps on a beach/clif walk. I visited the Old
Of course, in my job and for most of you reading this,
Town properly for the irst time, saw Anne Brontë’s grave
every day is Yorkshire Day. Lucky us.
and explored historic streets – among them St Sepulchre
I’ve even been on two ‘holidays’ in Yorkshire since my
Street – and if you read on to page 118, this is where
last editor’s letter – how’s that for dedication to the cause?
Coronation Street star Antony Cotton has renovated
Notably ‘Scarbados’, for one night only thanks to a concert
an old church!
The smell of baking lured us to bustling Scarborough
at Scarborough Open Air Theatre. That weekend, to see
Market Hall and Solange Bakery for buttery croissants
Deacon Blue, we were blessed by the best of weather.
and ham and cheese sourdough buns.
Proper blue sky, no coats – not even a sweater.
It was great fun to walk from South Bay to North Bay
As getaways go, it was hardly original,
by the coastal road without even a hint of bufeting wind.
but good fun in the sun.
That route holds such memories – it seemed like miles
‘Vacay’ two was three nights on the seafront in
and miles when I was a little girl. In fact,
Saltburn-by-the-Sea with sunshine, seafood
so epic that you needed to make it on an
with a sea view and sunset for dessert.
open-top bus armed with a lemon top.
It took in a ‘beach hut day’ and the rain
This time we ambled by the sea, then I got
fell. But not for long. We partied on the prom
very jealous of the motorhome folk pitched
(with passing Morris Men), swam in the sea
and later skies cleared for sunset. Next day
beneath the castle with folks living their best
Friday night lives, relaxing in camping chairs,
was a family-illed day of crazy golf and
drink in hand, gazing at the sea. One of those
more of that sun stuf. Yorkshire days –
camper vans is on my to-do list.
would recommend!
From here, via the cricket ground, we
Kathryn
Have a happy August wherever you a
headed to North Bay Fisheries – like much
Armstrong,
spend it – I hope you enjoy this edition
Editor,
of the SOAT crowd judging by the queue. We
somewhere sunny.
Yorkshire Life
took our fabulous ish and chips to Peasholm
kathryn.armstrong@newsquest.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

INSIDE
August 2024

PHOTO:ANNIEROBINSON

16 24 33 34
BEYOND THE
TRIGGER

By John Robinson
As the Glorious Twelfth
approaches, a new book
celebrates the skills and heritage
of Yorkshire people playing their
part in grouse season. Meet
the stick maker, dog trainer,
leather artisans and more.
10

August 2024

BEST YORKSHIRE LIFE

CHRISTINE TALBOT

By Kathryn Armstrong
York-born bestselling writer
Kate Atkinson, renowned for
her crime novels featuring
former detective Jackson
Brodie, often sets her books
in Yorkshire – a place she’s
passionate about. She reveals
her favourite go-to spots.

Our columnist remembers
the life of Hannah Hauxwell,
the stoic Dales farmer
whose simple but tough
country life brought her
to the eyes of the world
following the documentary
Too Long a Winter, made
by Yorkshire Television.

CORINNE’S
KEY CHANGE

By Tony Greenway
Yorkshire-born singersongwriter Corinne Bailey Rae
performs at The Wardrobe in
Leeds this month. She talks
about the city’s creative buzz,
her latest album and why she
likes confounding people.

Yorkshire Life

PLUS

PHOTO:TONYBARTHOLOMEW

In the know
News, snippets and events

Reader photos
Every day is Yorkshire Day

What’s on
A guide to summer
shows and events

Shaun Rankin
Grouse on the menu

Eat out
Quirky food & drink spots

Ridings high
Yorkshire’s historic
borders revisited

WHITBY’S SUMMER BUZZ
By Jeannie Swales
The appeal of Yorkshire’s coast is no secret and summer is busy
and bustling. We explore Whitby’s seaside character and, in our
coastal section, also discover some distilleries and breweries to
delight, things to do and ind an inspiring place to stay.

100 24 in 2024
How to pass your time
in Boston Spa

185 WIN!
A pair of electric bikes
could be yours

A BIG FEAST

152 Buy a castle
Look inside the for-sale
Ripley Castle

PHOTO:BBC

By Emma Mayoh
Great British Bake Off ’s
Rowan Claughton shared his
long-held love of baking on the
popular Channel 4 show. Now
the 22-year-old, who lives in
Boston Spa, has partnered with
Yorkshire Sculpture Park for a
Yorkshire Day treat.

118

177 Retirement revels
Make it matter
190 Fun for free
Pocket-friendly
family playdays

A HEAVENLY
CONVERSION

210 My Yorkshire weekend
Holmirth Arts Festivals’
Bev Adams
PHOTO:DANIELELAND

By Kathryn Armstrong
Coronation Street favourite
Antony Cotton has crossed the
Pennines for an interiors passion
project in Scarborough that has
created a wow-factor home
within a former church. It’s been
a real labour of love.

164 Raceday fashion ix
Tips, trends and style

ON THE COVER

158

COUNTRY LIFE

By Beth Windsor
Rachel Scott left behind her
career as a model in Mayfair
to up sticks with her husband,
Philip, and return to Yorkshire.
Now she spends her days candle
making, surrounded by a gaggle
of geese, a pack of cockapoos,
and a collection of beehives.

Yorkshire Life

A summer sunrise in Whitby.
Photo: Getty Images

August 2024

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on Facebook
/yorkshirelife

Snap with us
on Instagram
@yorkshirelifemag

EDITOR
Kathryn Armstrong
07703 201491 / kathryn.armstrong@newsquest.co.uk
CONTENT EDITOR NORTH
Emma Mayoh
07841 492724 / emma.mayoh@newsquest.co.uk
FEATURE WRITER
Beth Windsor
07702 674019 / elizabeth.windsor@newsquest.co.uk
PRINT EDITOR
Sarah Rodi
sarah.rodi@newsquest.co.uk
DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER
Vijay Arogyasami
07584 147949 / vijay.arogyasami@newsquest.co.uk
REGIONAL MAGAZINES PUBLISHER NORTH
Jane Hanson
07968 374982 / jane.hanson@localiq.co.uk
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Published in Yorkshire by Newsquest Media Group.
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Yorkshire Life adheres to the Editors’ Code of Practice (which you can ind
at pcc.org.uk/cop/practice.html). We are regulated by the Independent Press
Standards Organisation. Complaints about stories should be referred irstly
to the editor by email at: kathryn.armstrong@newsquest.co.uk It is essential
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next to the comment.

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Sarah Steele is a world expert on Whitby jet and these
days runs her own shop on picturesque Church Street.

DON’T
MISS THE
September
issue

on sale
August 23

SOCIAL
14

August 2024

PHOTO: GETTY
PHOTO:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

PHOTO:XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

NEXT ISSUE

PHOTO:TONYBARTHOLOMEW

The jet set

TIME TO BLOOM

We take a fabulously loral close up
of the treats in store at this year’s
Harrogate Autumn Flower Show
at Newby Hall.

Find us on Facebook
/yorkshirelife

SPORTING SHOWCASE

All eyes will be on Masham this September
as it hosts Long Course Weekend, a
sporting spectacular being held in
Yorkshire for the irst time.

Snap with us on Instagram
@yorkshirelifemag

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

One of the images from the book
– Rachael Wearmouth with her
pack at the end of a long day on
the grouse moor at Brandsdale

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

RURAL TRADITIONS

THE

RULES
OF THE

GAME
As the Glorious Twelfth of August
approaches, a new book celebrates the
skill sets and heritage of Yorkshire
people playing their part in rural life
WORDS: John Robinson
PHOTOS: Annie Robinson

ehind & Beyond the Trigger is a made-inYorkshire book, by John and Annie Robinson
who live in Dalby Forest. Launched to coincide
with the Glorious Twelfth – traditionally the
start of the grouse shooting season – it highlights
the people who are at the centre of the game tradition
and rural economy on the North York Moors, Yorkshire
Dales and further aield.
They include deer stalkers and head keepers, farriers,
saddlers, gundog breeders and butchers; makers of tweed,
sticks, shotguns and leather goods; gunsmiths and gun
engravers, and even a wildlife artist.
Says John: ‘There are many great characters involved
within the industry, but behind every gun, there are
probably around 50 people employed in some way – this
book celebrates their remarkable talents and shows how
important they all are to the rural economy.’
>

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

The

GUNDOG BREEDERS,
TRAINERS and HANDLERS

ogs are used in every sphere of shooting, from the beating line for
grouse, pheasant, and partridge, the picking-up team, grouse counting,
deer tracking and stalking, and all-round companion in the ield. That
simply means that the variety of breed, type and use is substantial.
You may be a professional stalker and keeper using a variety of dogs within the
role or indeed a recreational stalker and rough shooter. Whichever you choose
to be, the dogs are indispensable in the ield for all of us.
Thirsk-based Richard King is a top level gundog breeder, trainer, and handler:
an England International for 15 years, World Cup winner on four occasions and
winner of the Home International on seven occasions, backed up by winning the
International Gundog League Retriever Championships in 2014.

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

RURAL TRADITIONS

The

SADDLER
magine what it might take to be a
master saddler and saddle itter; what
you might have to make, and for what.
The equine world is full of ponies and
horses of diferent sizes, and they are used for a
myriad of uses, and no two horses, or ponies, are the same.
In short, seven years of exams, which will include
benchwork saddlery, equine anatomy, physiology,
behaviour, biomechanics, and saddlery itting.
Kieran Forsyth and Jocelyn Danby of Danby Equestrian
say: ‘Our general ethos is that the horse must always
come irst and we are constantly looking for the best
ways to improve equine welfare and comfort in the most
eicient ways. A section of society today believe that
horses should not be used for work, sport, or leisure.
Therefore, to maintain and improve the social licence to
use the animal in this way we must strive to provide the
very best in welfare for all the animals involved.’

The

HEAD KEEPER
n the role of a modern-day grouse keeper, qualiications have become
the norm and you are unable to do anything nowadays without them.
For anything to do with machinery, you must have done the courses for
chainsaws, brush cutters and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Then there is
spraying, controlled burning, wildires, and use of rodenticides.
With 4,900 acres of grouse moor on the North York Moors to manage,
Andrew Orr must make all this happen, aided by his beat keeper, Morgan Campbell.
The controlled skills in the hands of the head keeper to have a successful season range
from medicated and non-medicated gritting with the use of GPS, tick control through
sheep, heather burning and cutting depending on peat depth, road/track building
and maintenance, grouse butt building and maintenance, training and
directing beat and under keepers, detailed record keeping, and bracken
spraying with scrub clearance.

I
Yorkshire Life

August 2024

RURAL TRADITIONS

The

LEATHER
ARTISANS
eather goods in the shooting
field serve important purposes.
Shotguns need protecting and must be
able to be carried safely over rough ground, whilst
cartridges need the same attention whilst being protected
from the elements, but still giving easy access. The rile
slip will be dragged through peat bogs, mud, heather and
snow and shale on the hill. When you have just stalked
for ive hours, that rile needs to be it for purpose.
In Malton, Jackie and Allistair Croot’s hand-crafted
products are born from many things. ‘Our craftsmanship,
our heritage, our proximity to some of the world’s most
magniicent country estates, our insistence on only ever
using the best materials, and our commitment to creating
the inest ield sports accessories and luggage. All these
things come together in Malton, the market town we call
home, and the gateway to the shooting grounds of the
North York Moors. This is where our family-run company
produces every item under one roof. Each item is a a nod
to our past, and to the shooting country that surrounds
us. When we make our shotgun slips, cartridge belts and
bags, choosing the right materials is crucial. We handpick our hides. And we only ever use natural, vegetabledyed leather to give us that unbeatable combination of
suppleness and performance. Our preferred grade of
sturdy cotton canvas can’t be bettered, and pure, natural
rubber provides the best waterprooing by far.

The

GUNSMITH
ike a car, a gun needs to be repaired, serviced, restored and inished
to a very high standard to be it for purpose. Shotguns and riles can get
heavy amounts of use in all weathers and conditions in the ield. As a result,
the gunsmith becomes an incredibly important part of the shooting day.
Chris Caine, one of Yorkshire’s finest gunsmiths, is owner of
W. Richards Ltd of Pocklington.
The history of W. Richards has connections with gun-making going back
to 1780, and was patronised by royalty from all over the British Empire.
Richards, still very much a family business, passed from one family member to
another and survived the depression of the turbulent 1920s. Chris purchased
the name, goodwill and intellectual property of W. Richards in the late 1990s,
relocating to Pocklington, East Yorkshire, where he repairs and manufactures
guns to order with the inest materials and workmanship as made for hundreds
of years by time-served craftsmen.

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

Behind
the book

The shoot day at Helperby
Estate with the head keeper
(right) leading the guns onto
their pegs. Second in from the
right is estate owner Professor
Sir Anthony Milnes Coates

John Robinson is a shooting
coach who volunteers for
Mountain Rescue, a Nuield
Farming Scholar with a military
background who has been involved
one way or another with farming,
wildlife and shooting all his life. A
former Commonwealth and British
Grand Prix gold medallist, he spent
20 years in the Great Britain and
England shooting teams, latterly
as England’s head coach, and he
also spent 10 years in Team GB’s
triathlon team.
Annie Robinson is an awardwinning wildlife photographer
who also specialises in
photojournalism, portraits
and landscapes.
Together they live on a farm
teeming with wildlife on the edge
of the Dalby Forest, near the
North York Moors, with their
self-employed fox terrier, Ted.
Behind and Beyond the Trigger
is a limited-edition 432-page
hardback book in a slipcase
with just 2,500 leather-bound,
hand-numbered copies available.
Each copy is signed by the author
and photographer. Priced at £95.
behindandbeyondthetrigger.com

The

STICK MAKER

f you think it is just a stick, then think again. Used for just about everything
you can think of whilst stalking – shooting, beating, lanking, picking up
and everything in between – the stick comes into its own. The skill, time,
and patience needed to produce a great stick is enormous.
If you take a trip to Hawes in the Yorkshire Dales you may come across the
timber worker, joiner, former dairy farmer, and sheep keeper William Lambert.
This is a man who has made sticks for his majesty King Charles III and Queen
Camilla, who is also a busy judge at agricultural shows in the north of England
where stick making thrives.
William Lambert made his irst stick at the age of 12, only to be disqualiied
by the judges as they didn’t believe anyone of his age could make a stick of that
quality. He went on to win the National Young Farmers competition aged 14 with
his next stick. Later, he was commissioned by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society
to make a pair of sticks to be presented to the future King and Queen of England.

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

SLICE OF LIFE
Yorkshire’s inspiring people, places and passions
LIFE OF AN AUTHOR

CORINNE BAILEY RAE

WHAT’S ON

Bestselling writer Kate Atkinson shares
Yorkshire places that inspire her

The international singer-songwriter
comes home this month

Those all-important summer
dates for your diary

IT’S SHOWTIME!

PHOTO:SARAHCALDECOTT

August brings with it some fabulous country shows across
Yorkshire where you can indulge your veg-growing,
dahlia-arranging, sheep-keeping, scone-making fantasies
– or just make the most of some artisan gin-tasting.
Of course there are tractor-watching and beer tent
options too. The weather can never be relied upon but
the atmosphere at shows like Wensleydale, pictured,
is unique. Elmley Show, August 3, Rosedale Show and
Gargrave Show, both August 17, Mirield Show, August 18,
Wensleydale Show in Leyburn, and Malham Show, both
August 24, Reeth Show, August 26, Kilnsey Show, August
27. Check show websites for timings and entry details.

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

INTERVIEW

BEST
YORKSHIRE LIFE
York-born bestselling writer kate atkinson, renowned for her
crime novels featuring former detective Jackson Brodie, often sets
her books in Yorkshire – a place she’s passionate about

A place in Yorkshire that
makes you smile?
Whitby. All human life is there. Every kind
of person and character you can imagine
wandering along the pier, Church Street,
the 199 Steps. Halloween these days is a
true spectacle. To see the steps up to the
Abbey crammed with ‘vampires’ climbing
up to the Abbey and St Mary’s churchyard
is astonishing. Last year, one of the biggest
full moons I’ve ever seen rose out of the sea
as if on request.
A place in Yorkshire that
you love to eat at?
Two quite diferent places. Firstly, the Magpie
(Whitby again). It’s very comforting the
way it never changes. The wonderful staf
are the same, year in, year out. Even after
a devastating ire it came back exactly the
same. If you have a formula, stick to it!
The other, of course, has to be Bettys Café
and Tea Rooms, all of them – York, Harrogate,
Ilkley, Northallerton, Harlow Carr – although
York will always be closest to my heart.
I miss Little Bettys in Stonegate (now closed),
I used to go there long before it was Bettys
and loved the sloping loors and sense of
history. When I was young I was able to see
through the window into my dentist’s surgery.
Always a relief to be across the road from it
and not in it.
A place in Yorkshire that
you like to take friends?
York, always. I don’t understand why it
doesn’t have UNESCO status yet. If I was
taking friends I would probably go for a walk
along the walls, take in the Minster (I’ve yet
to ind a cathedral anywhere in the world that
I think is more beautiful.). Then I would take
them to the Castle Museum and the Railway
Museum and then, obviously, we would inish
at Bettys. Quite a long day!

Yorkshire Life

spiritual and it’s always heartening to see so
many families enjoying Fountains. Having
said that, Rievaulx is probably my favourite.
A place for indulgence in Yorkshire?
It must be Bettys again. I know, I know, I’m
like a one-woman advert for them. I always
try and get a mention of them into a Jackson
Brodie book. There’s a new one – Death
at the Sign of the Rook – coming out this
August. Jackson pops into the Bettys in Ilkely,
encouraged by ‘The siren-call of a toasted
teacake’. If there’s one food I’m allowed in
heaven (depending on whether I get in or not,
of course) it would be a Bettys vanilla slice.

above: Kate Atkinson tries to get a mention
of Bettys into her Jackson Brodie books
left: Kate is alway inspired by the Cistercian
ruins of Rievaulx Abbey in North Yorkshire

An early memory of Yorkshire?
An early York Festival in the 1950s. I was
very young and came out of my parents’ shop
in Stonegate in the early evening and saw a
woman dressed in 18th-century costume
selling lavender, like a street hawker of
old. It felt for a moment as if the past had
come to life. Not diicult for me as our shop
was undoubtedly haunted. Its most recent
incarnation was as a Kingdom of Sweets,
now thankfully gone. Still haunted though.
Your cultural go-to in Yorkshire?
I’m no longer sure what cultural means but
for me it would be the three great Cistercian
abbeys – Fountains, Rievaulx, Jervaulx. The
peace and quiet of Jervaulx can feel very

I’m never happier than when...
Well, see above, but my favourite place is
actually the National Railway Museum in
York. I love steam trains in a way that’s almost
visceral. I’ve ridden on the footplate of both
the Tornado (thrilling, 70 miles an hour never
felt so fast) and the Sir Nigel Gresley. The
Mallard is perhaps the most beautiful manmade object on earth, in my opinion. I am
in the planning stages of a novel about the
early days of the railway. I’m very excited at
the prospect of the research.
A Yorkshire view that inspires?
The Terraces at Rievaulx, looking down at the
abbey in the valley below. There’s something
about the juxtaposition of 18th-century
cultivation – a pleasure garden with temple
follies – and the ruins of the abbey down
below that I ind quite magical.
Three words that sum up your best
Yorkshire life?
Scenery, heritage, humour.
Kate’s latest book, Death at the Sign
of the Rook, features her detective,
Jackson Brodie. It is out in hardback
this month, published by Transworld

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

YORKSHIRE NEWS

PHOTO:GETTY

In the KNOW

BERRY GOOD SHOW
Egton Bridge, eight miles from
Whitby, is the setting for the oldest
surviving gooseberry show in the
country, established in 1800. The
show is held on the irst Tuesday
in August each year by the Egton
Bridge Old Gooseberry Society. Last
year gardening royalty Monty Don
attended ilming his series, Monty
Don’s British Gardens, so look for it
on screen. The 223rd show on August
6 at Egton Manor is free to attend and
open to the public from 2pm.
egtongooseberryshow.org.uk

Flying the lag

Embark on a guided dog-walking tour
across the Castle Howard landscape.
Led by Castle Howard’s experienced
game and wildlife conservation
manager, this 8km route traverses
parts of the estate not accessible by
public footpath, providing unique
access and views. This tour promises
an intimate connection with nature,
as you and your pooch learn to tread
respectfully in the great outdoors.
August 2. £15, please book.
castlehoward.co.uk/whats-on/

Yorkshire Life

PHOTO:DREWFORSYTH

PHOTO:NICKHOWARD

WALK THIS WAY

Bright, bold and adventurous works of art
with their own story to tell pack the halls
and walls of Harewood House and grounds
this summer as the Harewood Biennial
2024 celebrates craft and artisanal heritage
connecting generations and continents.
Create/Elevate brings large-scale works
from 16 international contemporary artists,
designers and craft collectives throughout
Harewood House and Gardens for the third
edition of the Harewood Biennial, presented
by Harewood House Trust in Yorkshire.
A notable outdoor installation, pictured,
is Rebecca Chesney’s Conditions at Present
– 25 windsocks made from reclaimed fabric
from tents salvaged from music festivals.
Tents provide shelter in times of crisis or
displacement. They can perform a very
different role at music festivals where
cheap tents are often discarded by their
temporary inhabitants.
Chesney asks viewers to consider the
environmental impacts that produced tents
so cheaply. Conditions at Present is a cocommission with the British Textile Biennial,

in collaboration with FWRD (Festival Waste
Reclamation and Distribution).
Elsewhere, Xanthe Somers has created a
new sculpture entitled Eye of the Beholder,
which provides a critical relection upon
Harewood’s collection of Sèvres porcelain.
Somers’ ceramic artworks use traditional
Zimbabwean craft techniques and are
informed by the colonial history of Zimbabwe.
Her work reimagines everyday life through
what she terms the ‘subtle treason of objects’.
Somers challenges the prevailing ideas
associated with beauty and reinement which
have been manipulated by the colonial gaze
and the systematic repressions ixed upon
southern Africa.
All the works are thought-provoking, says
Rachel Crewes, CEO of Harewood House
Trust: ‘Harewood Biennial is a showcase
for the trust’s vision to commission and
collaorate with exceptional artists who
engage with Harewood’s history in a
contemporary way, provoking different
perspectives and conversations.’
Until October. harewood.org

August 2024

YORKSHIRE NEWS

Much-loved traditional black and
white direction signs and village
nameplates of the Howardian
Hills National Landscape, North
Yorkshire, are being given some
tender loving care.
The refurbishment work follows
a survey by volunteers from the
Howardian Hills Partnership,
who hit the road and recorded 40
old-style direction signs across 47
villages and hamlets and reported
on the condition of 103 name-plates.
A few of those inspected were
relatively modern part-plastic
replacements, whilst some of the
older ones had corroded, been bent
or faded badly.
Where repairs were not possible,
cast-iron replacements made by
skilled craft workers in Staithes
have been installed, faithful to the
classic design, as part of the ongoing programme. Work is being
funded by the Howardian Hills
Partnership and local communities.
Tony Croser, grants oicer at
the Howardian Hills National
Landscape, pictured below,
inspects the new cast-iron direction
sign and village name-plate
in Hovingham.

Admire the view

PHOTO:HESTERCOX

PHOTO:NYMNP

SIGNS OF LIFE

Fellrunner Hester Cox sees the landscape
diferently to many of us and as an artist she
gets to show us that world in a new exhibition
at The Folly in Settle this summer.
Within These Walls is a celebration in print
of Yorkshire Dales meadows, focusing on rich
meadowland in agriculture and ecology in a
project that includes hand-printed linocuts,
collagraphs, monotypes and a large-scale
print installation. Artist Hester says: ‘As a
fellrunner, I often view the landscape from
the tops of hills and am fascinated by the
serpentine drystone walls that hug the
contours of the land and the way the enclosed
spaces change throughout the seasons.’

Also showing at The Folly, The World
Beneath Our Feet is an exhibition of
modern caving photographs from within
the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
This includes photographs by Mark Burkey
and Gary Douthwaite, and is curated by
Tim Allen. It has been funded by the Council
of Northern Caving Clubs.
Both exhibitions run util September 28.
Admission to the museum is free.
The Folly, built in 1679, is home to the
Museum of North Craven Life, which tells
fascinating tales of the people and landscape
of the local area.
thefolly.org.uk

PHOTO:THEPOINT

Deep dive in Don
It’s oicial – The River Don is Amazing.
This is the title of an interactive experience
at The Point, Doncaster, which will see the
gallery transformed into a vibrant slice of the
River Don. Local sculptor Dan Jones brings
the river to life with magniicent hanging
sculptures of otters, ish, and kingishers.
A large-scale ilm projection transports
visitors underwater, revealing hidden
wonders through stunning footage, drone
views, and unique perspectives. Witness the
river’s renewed health and the recreational
activities it supports, all from a captivating
underwater world.

Yorkshire Life

Dan Jones will host workshops with
schools and community groups, and visitors
of all ages can create their own sculptures
in the maker space, adding to the evolving
riverbed installation.
Artist Dan says: ‘The River Don is Amazing
is a celebration of the River Don’s remarkable
transformation and the diverse communities
that share its lifeblood. I’m excited to create an
immersive experience that sparks curiosity,
encourages exploration, and fosters a
connection with this vital waterway.’
Running until 11 September 2024.
Entry is free. Call 01302 341662

August 2024

R E A DER S’ PHOTOS

Every
day is
Yorkshire
Day
clockwise from top:

Swaledale meadow and barns
by Tim Dunn
Sandsend to Whitby
by Heather Croft
Big sky over Wharfedale
by David Sawley
Upton Wold Garden
by James Ferrero

Send your photo submissions to
photos@yorkshirelife.co.uk

CHRISTINE TALBOT
Buzzing around Yorkshire, our columnist’s days are never the same…

ugust 1 means Yorkshire Day.
However, as we raise a glass
and celebrate all that is great
about God’s Own County, let’s
also remember the original ‘Yorkshire
Shepherdess’ and ‘Daughter of the Dales’,
Hannah Hauxwell – who aptly celebrated
her birthday on this day.
I was lucky enough to get to know this
iconic lady in the years before her death in
2018. She would be turning 98 this year,
but I last saw her just a few months before
she passed away when I visited for her 91st
birthday that August.
This kind, uncomplicated and iercely
intelligent woman, whose values and ethics
came from a bygone era and who lived life with
a simplicity, untouched by the modern world
or her accidental celebrity, had inally had to
surrender her independence due to health
problems. Two hip replacements, a legacy
of a lifetime of gruelling labour from singlehandedly running her isolated Yorkshire
farm, had left her with poor mobility. She
had been forced to leave, irst her beloved
farm, then her small village cottage, to live in
a nursing home in County Durham. She had
a room on the top loor, chosen because, from
her window, she could see the countryside
and the changing seasons.
She kept herself to herself, mixing rarely
with other residents, but instead enjoying the
company of her radio, which she listened to
all day. She was interested in current afairs
and knew every twist and turn of Brexit.
She also loved classical music, and had
recently discovered Classic FM, particularly
enjoying David Mellor’s Saturday night show,
a weekly highlight.
I irst met Hannah when I interviewed her
on her 85th birthday when she was living in
her cottage in Cotherstone and our friendship
developed from there. Hannah did life at her
own pace and could never be rushed. I quickly
learned not to call before 1pm. If I was ilming
with her she always worried about what to wear
and I’d wait with our crew as she changed
several times, only to emerge in what looked
like a series of identical outits topped with a
woolly hat or headscarf covering her whitehaired bun.
Hannah had turned white-haired in her
forties so had barely changed from the
time she became an international star after
a Yorkshire TV producer accidently came
across her remote farm and old-fashioned
simple life and made her famous in the 1972
documentary, Too Long a Winter.
I continued to visit Hannah over the next
few years, often having to clamber over
all the things she liked to hoard, which

Yorkshire Life

The day I showed the
First Lady of the Dales
how to take a selie!
included hundreds of margarine tubs and
old newspapers – that wartime ‘waste not
want not’ mentality!
I loved sitting with her by her stove as she
darned an old mattress that seemingly never
got inished, her lilting, gentle voice speaking
words of old-fashioned common sense. It was
a voice from years long gone and she was
refreshingly straightforward in her views.
Hannah was also incredibly thoughtful.
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer,
she was concerned that I got enough rest.
She also always asked how my daughter was
getting on in her school exams and once even
reeled of Beth’s A level subjects to me over a
year after I’d irst mentioned them.
On my last visit, Hannah was more frail,
but her smile still lit up the room. I wanted
to capture that smile and suggested we take a
selie. That innate sense of curiosity was there,
and she asked me to show her how to use my
iPhone so she could take the selie herself.
So here we are, in the picture on this page,
the last time I saw Hannah and a photo I’ll

above: Hannah gets to grips with the
art of the selie. Photo: Christine Talbot

always treasure, taken by the most famous
and iconic Daleswoman in the world.
I stayed till her tea arrived (always ham,
eggs and cornlakes) but, before I left, I
asked her if she would like me to take her
outside one day. Always unfailingly polite she
answered: ‘That’s very kind of you indeed,
but it’s a bit cold at the moment, one day soon
I hope to get out in the fresh air.’ I left her
looking out of the window across the ields,
the legendary First Lady of the Dales.
I don’t know if she did manage to get
outside one last time but I hope so.
I do know that, on Yorkshire Day on August
1, I’ll be toasting Hannah – and celebrating
with ham, eggs and cornlakes too!
You can follow Christine on
@christinetalbot
@christineetalbot
@ChristineTalbot

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

PUT HER RECORDS ON

A KEY
CHANGE
for Corinne

Internationally famous Yorkshire-born
singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae
performs at The Wardrobe in Leeds this month.
Tony Greenway talked to her about the city’s
creative buzz, her latest acclaimed album and
why she enjoys confounding expectations
WORDS:

Tony Greenway

t’s funny how life turns out. For instance,
if a good friend of hers hadn’t fallen
pregnant, Corinne Bailey Rae might
have ended up as the frontwoman of
a moderately successful indie girl group
called Helen, rather than a globally famous
solo artist with two Grammy Awards on her
mantlepiece. So perhaps these things happen
for a reason.
Music was always going to shape the life
of Leeds-born Bailey Rae. She started Helen
when she was just 15, and the band became a
hit on the city’s bar and pub scene. Excitingly,
a bona ide record contract was waved in front
of them; although, before it could be signed,
the bass player — a good friend of Bailey Rae’s
— announced that she was pregnant. At that
point, the phone stopped ringing and interest
faded away. A gutted Bailey Rae knuckled
down to her studies at the University of Leeds.
Yet talent will out. In 2006, she released
her self-titled debut solo album, which was
drenched in sunshine, became a hit on
both sides of the Atlantic and featured her
breezy signature song, Put Your Records

left: ‘When I do shows it’s like: “Who’s the

oldest person here?” There’s always people
in their seventies and, if they’re allowed
to go, there are babies and kids, too,’ says
Corinne Bailey Rae. Photo: Rebecca Hull

Yorkshire Life

On. Two MOBO awards, three BRIT Award
nominations and three more acclaimed
albums have followed: The Sea (2010),
The Heart Speaks in Whispers (2016) and
last year’s Black Rainbows.
During the course of her career there have
been amazing highs; but the death of her
irst husband, Jason Rae, in 2008, was a
shattering low. Now aged 45, Bailey Rae lives
in Leeds with her record producer husband
Steve Brown and their two daughters, and
says life is good. When we speak over Zoom,
she’s back in Leeds but in the middle of a
world tour, and the schedule — which takes
in Australia, the US, South America and
Europe — looks punishing.
‘I feel like I’m always about to set of, or I’m
always about to get home,’ admits a serenelooking Bailey Rae. ‘But it really does feel
like a consistent life at present. I’m with my
family at home, and I’m with my family when
I tour. I have a really good team of people
that I know well, and they make it smooth
— and I love the band. It seems to be making
sense at the moment.’
Bailey Rae’s concerts come in all sizes.
In June, she performed at the Glastonbury
Festival, one of the biggest stages in the
world. In August, she plays two nights in
Leeds at a rather more intimate venue: the
400-capacity arts space The Wardrobe, which
is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. As >
August 2024

PUT HER RECORDS ON

a bonus, she only has to nip up the road
to get there.
‘I haven’t played The Wardrobe for a long
time,’ she says. ‘I wanted to do it because
it’s a really important venue for the city and
loads of great people have played there. I
remember seeing (jazz funk pioneer) Roy
Ayers there, and loads of local bands who
became bigger, like The Haggis Horns — who
went on to play with Mark Ronson — and
The New Mastersounds. Plus loads of my
friends who are musicians have performed at
The Wardrobe, so I’ve been backstage a lot.
It’s a nostalgic place for me, and I’m pleased
to see that it still pulls in really great bands.’
Although she’ll be with her full band
on both nights, the atmosphere will be

‘I’ve been really glad that people
heard the record,’ she says. ‘Sometimes
with music, you think no one’s going to
hear it unless it has a real pop aspect to it.’
She’s well aware that marketing is part
of the record business. Even so, she
doesn’t doesn’t like being commodiied or
feeling that ‘I can’t (make music like) this
because... it’s too long, it’s too weird, it’s too
diferent to what I’ve done before, it’s not
popular enough, and the subject matter isn’t
universal enough so it won’t connect.’
Sometimes musicians have to dare to
be diferent. Lindsey Buckingham from
Fleetwood Mac once recalled that after the
band had released Rumours — one of the
best-selling albums of all-time — their record

‘Leeds has big universities, the dance
school, and the music college, so there’s
always this fresh energy coming in’
informal and the setlist will be luid because,
she says, ‘I’ve a lot of songs at this point.’
No doubt that will include material from
her latest extraordinary album, Black
Rainbows, which was inspired by her visits
to an archive dedicated to black history and
the black experience at the Stony Island
Arts Bank in Chicago. Released to universal
acclaim at the end of last year (The Guardian
called it ‘her best work yet’), the album
marked a stark change of direction from
her usual sound. Out went the sweet-natured
pop of Put Your Records On, and in came
electronica, jazz, punk, Afrofuturism and
lashings of dirty rock guitar. Did she enjoy
confounding her fans’ expectations?

August 2024

label was clearly expecting Rumours 2 as a
follow-up. Instead, disappointed executives
were presented with the avant-garde double
album Tusk, and ‘saw their Christmas
bonuses going out the window’. Can Bailey
Rae relate to that?
‘Yeah, it does feel like that,’ she admits.
‘It’s kind of an entangled thing. (The record
executives) want you to do well for you.
They want you to do well for them, of
course. But I think it’s hard for them to
understand that, for an artist, “doing
(a record) for yourself ” is making
something that really excites you. So
I feel thrilled with Black Rainbows,
because it excites me. It interests me when

Yorkshire Life

left: Still loving life in Leeds even

though music takes Corinne Bailey Rae
across the globe. Photo: Koto Bolofo
above: In August, Bailey Rae
plays two nights in Leeds at The
Wardrobe, which is celebrating its
25th birthday this year. Photo: Gregory Berg

I’m playing it. I love these songs and I love
what they communicate.’
She also loves living in Leeds. It’s where
she was born and raised and where she feels
most comfortable, but it’s also creatively
energising. ‘My family are there and a lot
of my friends are there,’ she says. ‘I also
really love that Leeds has big universities,
the dance school, and the music college, so

Yorkshire Life

there’s always this fresh energy coming in,
in terms of young people. A lot of people stay
after university because you can still ind a
warehouse and set up a business like (artist
studio) Lord Whitney have (in Scott Hall
Mills); or just do some interesting stuf that’s
harder to do in a city like London because
it’s so expensive.’
She enjoys the academic expertise the city
ofers, too. ‘Especially in the black space,’ she
says. ‘For example, Malika Booker and Jason
Allen-Paisant are both massive intellectuals,
fun people, artists and makers. Peepal Tree
Press is in our city, which is the biggest
publisher of Caribbean literature outside
of the Caribbean. And, obviously, there’s a
big, ethnically diverse population in Leeds,
which I love. There are people of diferent

religions and people who have no religion.
It’s a culturally diverse, hip space.’
That diversity is found in the audiences at
her shows. Wherever she plays, she can look
out into the audience and ind people in their
twenties — but also people in their thirties,
forties, ifties and sixties. ‘When I do shows
it’s like: “Who’s the oldest person here?’’’ she
says. ‘There’s always people in their seventies
and, if they’re allowed to go, there are babies
and kids, too. I really love that because, in
my music, I’m trying to connect. That’s really
important to me. I like that we can all be in
it together.’
Corinne Bailey Rae plays
The Wardrobe on August 15 and 16.
Black Rainbows is out now.
thewardrobe.co.uk

August 2024

PHOTOS:DAMIENJAMESBRAMLEY/DJBPHOTOGRAPHY

SOCIETY

Francine White, Bridget Mackinnon,
Laura White, Titi Asu

Perfect day at
The Yorkshire Polo

Matt Pilmoor, Shona Manderson

David ‘Dixie’ Dixon

The Yorkshire Polo at Allerton Country Park
ofered the perfect alternative to Royal Ascot
this year here in Yorkshire, held by Yorkshire
Children’s Charity. Polo matches took centre
stage, following on from a three-course dinner
from The Hog and Apple, and silent auction, all
hosted by David ‘Dixie’ Dixon. A beautifully
presented starter of black treacle cured salmon
was served in the sun-soaked marquee, followed
by a sirloin and short rib croquette main course,
and inished with a delightful Solero tube dessert
that combined ine dining with everyone’s
favourite summertime treat. The day was well
attended by Yorkshire supporters, and raised an
amazing £172,000 alongside the Yorkshire Clay
Shoot held the following day.
yorkshirechildrenscharity.org

Beth Windsor, Bridget Mackinnon, Titi Asu

Charlotte Farrington,
Yorkshire Children’s Charity CEO

Yorkshire Life

Rachel Woolford

Paul Boulton

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

WHAT’S ON
COMPILED BY:

Tony Greenway

August 2024

PHOTO:JONTYWILDE,COURTESYYORKSHIRESCULPTUREPARK

Guide to
THE BEST
events in
August

ART

Elisabeth Frink: Natural Connection
It’s been 31 years since Dame Elisabeth Frink — a leading post-war
artist and a titan of British sculpture — passed away, aged just 62.
This exhibition highlights Frink’s connection to the natural world
and is drawn from the Yorkshire Sculpture Park’s own collection,
featuring a selection of her bronzes, plasters and works on paper.
Until February 2025, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton; ysp.org.uk
Yorkshire Life

DIARY

This event — which plugs into
all things Georgian — includes
a Georgian dance class, an Anne
Lister walking tour, a rogues
gallery tour, an 18th century
cooking demonstration, family
trails, dance performances in St
Helen’s Square, a Bridgerton by
Candlelight concert and a York
Georgian Ball at the Grand
Assembly Rooms.
August 1–4, various venues,
York, mansionhouseyork.com
ROCK

Noel
Gallagher
With little brother Liam doing
the rounds over the summer (see
this month’s Leeds Festival, for
instance), Noel Gallagher is not
to be outdone, playing a gig
among the Italianate splendour
of The Piece Hall in Halifax.
Other names this month include
Richard Ashcroft (August 2),
The Stranglers (August 3), Jess
Glynne (August 8), the great
PJ Harvey (August 20), Fatboy
Slim (August 24), and Jungle
(August 25).
August 1, The Piece Hall,
Halifax, thepiecehall.co.uk
MUSICAL

Six the Musical
This musical is short and upbeat.
Why upbeat? It’s about the
six wives of Henry VIII, who
appear on stage as pop stars

and take it in turns to sing
songs about how dreadful their
ex-husband was. You’ve got to
hand it to writers Toby Marlow
and Lucy Moss: it’s inspired.
July 23–August 10,
Lyceum, Sheield,
sheieldtheatres.co.uk
OUTDOOR THEATRE

The Secret Diary
of Henry VIII
A comedy performed by touring
theatre company The Three
Inch Fools in the gardens
of Wentworth Woodhouse,
Rotherham’s Grade I listed
stately home. It’s billed as ‘an
essential guide on how to keep
your head in the Tudor Court’ —
but with musical instruments
and quick costume changes.
All profits go to Wentworth
Woodhouse Preservation Trust.
August 7. Wentworth
Woodhouse, Rotherham,
wentworthwoodhouse.org.uk

FOLK FESTIVAL

PHOTO:DAVIDANGEL

FESTIVAL

York Georgian Festival

The
Magpies Festival
Returning to Sutton Park
for its fourth year, this familyfriendly folk festival is the
brainchild of — as the name
suggests — all-female Yorkshirebased folk trio, The Magpies.
Names on the bill include
Molotov Jukebox, Jesca
Hoop (who was discovered by
Tom Waits and has worked
with Peter Gabriel), Jim Moray,
and The Turbans. Oh, and The
Magpies, of course.
August 9 & 10,
Sutton Park, York,
themagpiesfestival.co.uk

FESTIVAL

Underneath
the Stars

THEATRE

Brassed Of
It’s grim up north for the
miners in a Yorkshire brass
band when they discover that
their colliery is threatened
with closure. So with jobs
u nder t h reat , temp er s
fraying and their community
fracturing, they’ve got more
important things to worry
about than qualifying for the
National Championships at
London’s Albert Hall. Er...
haven’t they? Based on the
hit movie, this production —
from Stephen Joseph Theatre,
Theatre by the Lake and
Octagon Theatre Bolton —
features live music from local
brass bands.
August 2–31,
Stephen Joseph Theatre,
Scarborough,
sjt.uk.com

It’s been 10 years since Kate
Rusby launched this fabulous
Yorkshire music and arts
festival, so expect 2024 to
have big celebratory energy.
We know Rusby’s name opens
doors, but this year’s line-up is
particularly good and includes
headliners The Feeling, Rumer
(both playing on Saturday) and
Bill Bailey (who’ll be performing
on Sunday). Rusby herself will
be taking to the stage on Friday
evening. Other not-to-be-missed
names include Blazin’ Fiddles,
Dervish, Lucy Spraggan and
Hamish Hawk.
August 2–4,
Cinderhill Farm,
Cawthorne, Nr Barnsley,
underneaththestarsfest.
co.uk
>

CONCERT

Live From
The Yard
That’s Zebedee’s Yard to you — Hull city
centre’s events space. The names headlining
this new live music event are impressive:
Calum Scott (on August 8 with Caity Baser,
Tim Gallagher and Charlotte Jane); Ocean
Colour Scene (on August 9 with Embrace
and Cast); and Razorlight (on August 11 with
The Zutons and Reverend and the Makers).
Throughout August, Zebedee’s Yard, Hull,
livefromtheyard.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Music in the Park’s Anne-Marie Jackson

MUSIC EVENT

Music in the Park:
The Grand Finale
The tiny East Yorkshire hamlet of Spaldington, near Howden, plays host to a big evening
of proms-inspired music in aid of research into Parkinson’s disease. Music in the Park was
launched in 2003 by Spaldington locals Anne-Marie and David Jackson after Anne-Marie
was diagnosed with the condition; and, over the years, it has raised more than £100k. This
particular evening — organised by the couple’s daughter, Sara‚ is billed as ‘one last major
fund-raiser’ and will feature a spectacular ireworks inale. Bring picnics and blankets.
August 3, he Old Hall, Spaldington, Nr Howden,
07512 465 557, musicinthepark2024@gmailcom
44

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

DIARY

IMAGE:SHERLOCK.PR

PRIDE

UK Pride
Every year, a number of locations
around the UK compete to host
the annual national LGBTQ+
UK Pride event and, this time
around, the winning city is...
Doncaster. A crowd of 20,000
are expected to attend these
free celebrations on Town Field
(it’s moved from Elmield Park
where Doncaster Pride has been
held since 2022), which features
four stages, a funfair, a family
zone with entertainment and
activities for children and — of
course — a parade. Plus much
more besides, so check out the
website for full details.
August 10,
Town Field, Doncaster,
doncasterpride.co.uk
MUSICAL

Disney’s Aladdin
Disney’s Aladdin stage show
— based on the animated ilm
— did extremely brisk business
when it opened on Broadway
in 2014. Since then it’s been a
smash around the world, with
instantly recognisable songs by
Alan Menken, Howard Ashman
and Tim Rice, including Friend
Like Me, A Whole New World,
One Jump Ahead, Prince Ali and
Arabian Nights.
August 14–September 1,
Alhambra,
Bradford,
01274 432000
bradford-theatres.co.uk

OPER A

Sherlock Holmes and the Sign of Four
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s big brained Baker Streetbased sleuth gets an operatic makeover in this
world-premiere production, which is a highlight
of this year’s Leeds Opera Festival (August 5–
September 8). It’s the irst-ever opera adaptation of
a Holmes tale, and features bass Edward Hawkins

as Sherlock, tenor David Horton as Watson, soprano
Ellen Mawhinney as Mary, and bass Trevor Bowes
as Jonathan Small. For other festival highlights,
see the Northern Opera Group website.
Leeds School of Arts, August 28–31,
northernoperagroup.co.uk

ART

Monet in York
This is — as the saying goes —
‘a last chance to see’ exhibition
featuring one of Monet’s most
famous works, The Water-Lily
Pond, which he painted in his
beloved gardens at Giverny in
France. The painting forms
the centrepiece of the middle
room in the gallery; while
around it and in the side rooms
are works by other artists who
influenced Monet — or who
were inluenced by him.
Until September 8,
York Art Gallery,
01904 687687,
yorkartgallery.org.uk

Yorkshire Life

FESTIVAL

FOOD

POP

Leeds
Festival

Harrogate
Food and
Drink Festival

Becky Hill

The sun is setting on the UK’s
summer music festival scene for
2024, but this event is a good way
to round things of. Big names on
the bill include Liam Gallagher,
Blink 182, Fred Again, Two Door
Cinema Club, Lana del Rey, Raye,
Beabadoobee, Jorja Smith and
Catish and the Bottlemen. The
queue for the toilets starts here.
August 21–25,
Bramham Park,
leedsfestival.com

Part two of the Harrogate
Food Festival comes to you
from Ripley Castle, with a
programme of live music,
cooking classes, independent
bars, a comedy improv show,
a f lower crown workshop,
artisan
markets
and
international street food —
and, of course, live chef demos.
Foodie fun for all the family.
August 24–26,
Ripley Castle,
harrogatefoodfestival.com

With various Brit Awards on her
mantelpiece, a string of musical
collaborations with everyone
from David Guetta to Little Simz,
and four billion (yes, BILLION)
streams on Spotify, Becky
Hill rounds of the summer at
SOAT on August 29. Well, to be
accurate, Busted have the inal
show of the season, appearing
on 31st. Ooh, and don’t miss the
fabulous Bill Bailey on August 2...
Scarborough Open Air Theatre,
scarboroughopen
airtheatre.com

August 2024

SOCIETY

PHOTOS:KIRSTYCARTLEDGE

Charlie Renwick,
Laura De Wesselow

Champagne reception

Bramham’s big
birthday celebration
Shaun Bear, Kathryn Hepworth, Bob Hepworth

Nick Lane Fox (with photo of
his father, George Lane Fox)

Richard Waygood MBE,
Nick Wood, Adele Wood

The 50th anniversary Defender Bramham
International Horse Trials more than lived up
to its big birthday billing. Five world-class days
of top-light equestrian competition were blessed
with ideal weather conditions with riders from all
over the globe descending on the Yorkshire venue
hoping to impress for a place at this summer’s
Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The event got underway in traditional style
with the Lycetts Welcome Party, and it was quite
the celebration. Master of ceremonies John
Kyle welcomed guests and set the scene before
Charles Renwick of Lycetts gave a speech to
mark the event’s golden jubilee. A number of
former winners were in attendance, including
Nick Straker, who was a winner at the irst
running in 1974. The winners of the best dressed
at the Horse Inspection were also announced –
congratulations to the stylish pair of Jack Mantel
and Emma Thomas.
HRH The Princess Royal visited the event on
Sunday to take in the event and present the prizes
in the Defender CCI4*, much to the excitement
of the crowd – she herself competed in the irst
event back in 1974. As part of the ceremony, she
made a special presentation to Ian Stark who
signed of as cross-country course designer after
15 years.
The next Defender Bramham International
Horse Trials will be June 5-8, 2025

Nick Straker, Rupert Wailes-Fairbairn, Charlie Douglas,
Harry Appleton-Metcalfe, Emily Young, Charlie Douglas,
Charlie Renwick, Roddy Bannister, Laura Berry, Bec Stockbridge

Storm Straker, Arabella Thomson,
Georgie Wood

August 2024

Hamish Munro, Hannah Renwick,
Sophie Phillips, Scott Rogers

Hazel Towers, Jill Campion

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

COASTAL LIFE
The best of life on the Yorkshire coast

ALL ABOUT THE VIEWS

SAY CHEERS

WHITBY WANDERINGS

A stunning holiday spot with its
own bar and terrace in Whitby

Distilleries to discover where you can
sample local sips this summer

Fancy a move to Whitby?
Here’s everything you need to know

A ROUSING REGATTA PARTY

PHOTO:SIMONMCCABE

Whitby Regatta is the seaside town’s big weekend – an
event billed as ‘probably the oldest sea Regatta on the
northeast coast’. It’s certainly one of the prettiest – hey,
it’s in picturesque Whitby after all – with side attractions
that include a ireworks display, rowing races, a grand
parade, a funfair, a regatta fun run and a Spit and Polish
Classic Car Rally. Lashings of seaside fun guaranteed –
wonder how many chips are sold over the three days?
August 17-19, whitbyregatta@live.co.uk
whitbyregatta.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

50 Cheshire Life: <%+1m><%M> <%Y>

THE BIG
PICTURE
If you need something that resonates on
Yorkshire Day on August 1, how about the
instant calm of this serene sunrise on still
waters at Robin Hood’s Bay. Take a breath
and enjoy Yorkshire at its inest.

Photo: Getty Images

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

BEST YORKSHIRE LIFE

In the know
TOP TIPS FOR YOUR STAY
If you’re staying near Whitby and love
your beer, Verity and Ed, who run the
Coast & Camplight site (see p91)
share their favourite places for a
summer tipple:
Whitby Brewery – delicious local
ale brewed in a converted barn in the
shadow of Whitby Abbey. Actually
one of the best places to view the
Abbey so you can pretend you’re
being cultured sitting in their great
beer garden eating their delicious
pizza. Terriic – and dog friendly.
The Green Dragon is a teeny, tiny
bottle shop and bar on Grape Lane,
Whitby. It has an amazing selection
of beers to drink in and take away.
Lurk in their doorway until a space
opens up in the postage-stamp-sized
bar (it’s worth it), or buy a couple of
cold ones and take them to the beach
with your ish and chips. Dog friendly
(they really do need to be friendly to
it in the tiny bar with the three other
dogs that are already in there).
The Moon and Sixpence offers
craft ale and cocktails, nice food
and a great view over the harbour. It
doesn’t take dogs, but there’s a small
outside seating area that does.
The Black Horse – a tiny, traditional
pub with good beer, always Tiny Rebel
on tap, a great gin selection and
Yorkshire Tapas for nibbles. Squash
yourself into the old-fashioned front
bar and listen to the banter while
you sup your pint (dog friendly).

ALL ABOUT THE VIEWS
f your idea of a perfect getaway is a place
that includes a ‘sit still and take it all
in’ spot, then Lister & Walker is a real
box-ticker.
You can live in ‘Gentleman Jack’ luxury
style in this ive-storey Georgian townhouse
located in the heart of Whitby that will truly
make for a memorable stay on the North
Yorkshire coast. With a stunning balcony
terrace and bar area on the top loor of this
home, you’ll have incredible views over
Whitby, stretching all the way to the Abbey,
which can be enjoyed as you sip your morning
Yorkshire tea or as the sun sets over cocktails
at happy hour.
The property is handsome to look at and
full of luxury touches like comfy furnishings
in bold colours, a modern kitchen.

PHOTO:PLUMGUIDE

Yorkshire Life

coastandcamplight.co.uk

On sunny evenings, take advantage of
the courtyard on the ground loor of this
home, and dine alfresco. Then curl up on the
comfy sofas to relax after an exhausting day of
exploring and climbing the famous 199 steps
up to the Church of Saint Mary.
Whitby ofers narrow medieval streets
with boutiques and pubs, discover the ruins
of the Abbey, or visit the Blue Flag West Clif
beach and promenade, just a ive-minute
walk away.
Finally, slip into the plush bedding
and luxury linens to ensure you have a
great night’s sleep, ready for another
day of adventures.
Lister & Walker sleeps four.
Three nights in September,
£924, plumguide.com

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Say cheers to
Yorkshire’s inest
Summertime and the livin’ is easy… and
the Yorkshire coast is the perfect place to
relax over a drink and a delicious meal
WORDS:

Gemma Rio PHOTOS: Tony Bartholomew

he food and drink landscape in
the UK has changed out of all
recognition over the last few
decades – we’re no longer the
laughing stock we were in the ’60s and
’70s, instead leading the world in culinary
innovation and excellence.
The emphasis is strongly on seasonality
and locality – who doesn’t think about food
miles these days? – but they don’t just apply
to food. If you want a refreshing and very
local snifter to have alongside your dinner,
there are plenty of coastal options.
Sample a beer or two from the wellestablished Wold Top Brewery, near Filey.
This family-run company does everything
it can to promote sustainability on the farm,
rotating crops to keep the soil healthy, using
renewable energy from their own wind
turbines, and doing what they can to ofset
their carbon footprint – their barley is malted
just 10 miles away, at Muntons’ Flamborough
Maltings, just outside Bridlington, and they

Whitby Brewery produces
a range of beers ‘brewed in
the shadow of the Abbey’

August 2024

source their own water from natural chalk
aquifers under their farmland.
The result is a wide range of beers from
the fruity Scarborough Fair IPA to the dark
chocolate notes of Rip Curl. They’ve even
teamed up with Scarborough’s innovative
seaweed farmers, Seagrown, to create
Hold Fast, which has salty hints from the
kelp grown and harvested just off
the Yorkshire coast.
Up the coast at Whitby, the Whitby
Brewery produces a range of beers ‘brewed
in the shadow of the Abbey’ with a very local
slant – a bottle of Abbey Blonde, Jet Black,
Saltwick Nab or Smuggler’s Gold, anyone?
This young company, just nine years old,
is going places, with a line in small-batch
experimental beers.
The Whitby Distillery also loves a local
twist – their beautifully designed bottles
with an ammonite embossed on the base
make them extra covetable, and who
could resist a gin with a name like the >

Fred Savill, distillery assistant
at Whitby Distillery

Yorkshire Life

DISCOVER THE COAST

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

DISCOVER THE COAST

A TASTE OF THE SEA
Looking for a delicious dish to enjoy
alongside your locally produced gin
and tonic? For a summery taste of
the sea, try this fabulous and simple
dish from Paul Gildroy, head chef
at Whitby’s Magpie, which is world
famous for its seafood. Paul was one
of the many chefs who demonstrated
their skills at the town’s Fish and Ships
Festival in the late spring – keep an eye
out for announcements on the next
year’s line-up soon.

LANGOUSTINE PIL PIL
Serves 4

INGREDIENTS
100ml extra-virgin olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, inely sliced
12 whole langoustines, butterlied, or
just the tails, peeled and deveined
2tsps chilli lakes
2tsps smoked sweet paprika
1tbsp lat-leaf parsley, chopped
Half a lemon for squeezing
Sea salt to taste

Fred Savill, distillery assistant
at Whitby Distillery

‘Who could resist a gin with a name like the
PRINCE OF DARKNESS, or the Demeter edition?’
Prince of Darkness, or the Demeter edition
(the Demeter being the ship that brought
Dracula from Transylvania to Whitby)?
They also favour local lavours, working
with the North York Moors to collect
heather; with Seagrown to harvest sugar kelp
and pepper dulse; and with local producers
to incorporate Yorkshire honey.
And here’s something to treat yourself to
this year, the 200th anniversary of the RNLI:
Whitby RNLI Dark Spiced Rum honours
the dedication and courage of the brave
volunteers who have been saving lives around
the UK for the last two centuries – 10 per cent
of every bottle sale is donated to the RNLI.
More local gin is on ofer from the Filey
Distillery, where the gin is distilled in a
160-year-old former herring smokehouse
in the town. Check out their coastal edition

Pink Gin, lavoured with cassia and cinchona
bark, orange peel, fresh Filey rhubarb, and
strawberries – a real favourite!
And since we’re back down at the southern
end of the region, why not swing by the Spirit
of Yorkshire Distillery – sister company to
the Wold Top Brewery, and based nearby?
Proud creators of Yorkshire’s irst single malt
whisky, every stage of the process is in-house,
from choosing the variety of barley and how
it’s grown, to the unique still coniguration,
right through to bottling at the distillery.
The distinctive bottles are embossed with a
gannet skimming the waves – a lovely tribute
to the fact that the UK’s largest mainland
breeding colony of this bird is at Bempton.
Find further information on what else
is on across the Yorkshire Coast and
beyond at visitnorthyorkshire.com

METHOD
Heat the olive oil in a pan, add
the sliced garlic, and fry until
lightly golden in colour. Remove
the garlic and set aside.
Using the same oil, add the butterlied
langoustines, top side down, and
cook over a high heat for three to
four minutes, then turn over and
cook for another three to four
minutes. If you’re using just the
peeled tails, add to the pan and cook
over a high heat for two to three
minutes, tossing them frequently.
Add the chilli lakes, garlic, sweet
smoked paprika and chopped
parsley, and stir well.
Season with salt and a squeeze of
lemon and serve immediately.

Paul
Gildroy

FOOD FOR THOUGHT
If you’re the kind of person
who loves a good nose around
a food festival, inding new
culinary ideas, lavours and
ingredients, there’s an event
on the coast for you…
FILEY FOOD FESTIVAL
(AUGUST 10-11, OCTOBER
12-13, 2024 – THEN
QUARTERLY, IN APRIL,
JUNE, AUGUST AND
OCTOBER 2025): Pie, or

August 2024

prosecco? Scotch egg, or
Thai curry? You can ind
it all, and more, at Filey’s
regular food festivals,
located in the Evron Centre
and the Crescent Gardens,
overlooking glorious Filey Bay.

WHITBY FISH AND SHIPS
FESTIVAL (MAY 2025):
This family-friendly event
looks at all things maritime,
including demos from
leading local chefs in the
Seafood Kitchen Marquee.

SAVOUR THE YORKSHIRE
COAST (MAY 2025): A long
weekend of local food and
music at Scarborough’s
historic Spa complex.

SCARBOROUGH SEAFEST
(JULY 2025): More seafood
demos at Scarborough’s very
own maritime festival, located
on the town’s West Pier.

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

LET’S MOVE TO

Whitby Abbey headland

L ET’ S MOV E TO

WHITBY
Neighbourhood know-how, people and places
WORDS:

Yorkshire Life

Jeannie Swales PHOTOS: Tony Bartholomew

August 2024

LET’S MOVE TO

f you’re thinking of a move to Whitby, the good news
is that there’s plenty of property for sale, and much
of it at afordable prices. The bad news – for some
of you at least – is that you’ll almost always have
to share your beloved town with tourists. Visit Whitby
on a rainy Tuesday morning in November, and you’ll
still bump into them. But who can blame them? Why
wouldn’t they want to visit this gloriously quirky seaside
town, lanked on one side by the stunning landscapes of
the North York Moors National Park, and on the other
by the wild North Sea?
Tourists have locked to Whitby for centuries, including
writers Lewis Carroll and Bram Stoker. The former visited
Whitby regularly between 1856 and 1871 – it’s said that
his nonsense poem The Walrus and The Carpenter was
inspired by his walks on the town’s beaches.
Bram Stoker took a week’s holiday in the town in 1890
after a particularly tough theatrical tour – his boss,
actor-manager Sir Henry Irving, recommended it as a
good place to rest and recharge. Little could he know that
that week’s wanderings around the winding streets would
provide the spark for one of the greatest gothic novels in
the English language – Dracula.
Whitby is a town rich in history and heritage, art and
culture, industry and tourism. If shopping is your thing,
you’ll ind few chains; the town is thronged instead by
fascinating independents (with a nice mix of touristy
outlets alongside the kind of shops you actually need).
There’s plenty to feed the soul, too: great restaurants
and pubs, a decent theatre with live shows and ilms, and
throughout the year, a pageant of festivals, from music
to the annual Whitby Regatta.

right:

View across
the harbour
from St Mary’s
churchyard
near the top of
the 199 steps
below left:

View across to
the 199 steps
and Abbey
headland
in Whitby
below:

View over the
harbour mouth
from St Mary’s
churchyard
bottom:

Arguments Yard

EXPLORE
You could spend a lifetime exploring Whitby
and still not exhaust its possibilities. Let’s
start with the obvious – on the East Clif,
there’s the world-famous Abbey, whose
gothic silhouette dominates the town.
Alongside it, St Mary’s Church with its
fabulous 18th-century box pews, threelayered pulpit, and strong connections
to the town’s lifeboat community. In the
churchyard – famed amongst those who
enjoy the dark side as the place where
Dracula took his irst victim on English
soil – is a cross commemorating Caedmon,
widely regarded as the irst English poet.
64

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

From there, the famous 199 Steps lead
down to, on the right, Henrietta Street,
home to historic Fortune’s Kippers, and
to the left, Church Street, a picturesque
cobbled lane lined by jet works and shops
and the town’s former Town Hall.
Beyond this busy area, wander along
the riverside (maybe via the Captain Cook
Museum on Grape Lane) to the Seamen’s
Hospital, decorated with an ornate
balustrade and statuary, all topped by a
fully rigged model sailing ship.
Phew – so much history, so little time!
And we haven’t even crossed the river yet.

Yorkshire Life

Do so via the swing bridge – if you have
to kill a bit of time while it opens to let a
tall-masted boat through, so much the
better: it’s a spectacle in its own right.
On the west side, wander down towards
the piers, past the newly opened Whitby
Lobster Hatchery. At the bandstand, pause
to decide between a breezy stroll along the
pier, or a climb up the Khyber Pass to the
West Clif, home to the whalebone arch,
and Captain Cook’s statue. Walk down
Skinner Street, with its many independent
shops, leading to Flowergate, where you
can take a vertiginous walk back down to

the harbourside, or go a little further uphill
to ind the beautiful Whitby Museum and
Pannett Art Gallery.
And all that before we even touch on
Whitby’s architecture (the remarkable
‘bottle’ windows were said to be a solution
to the window tax); the extensive yards,
alleyways and ‘ghauts’ that riddle the town
(explore by all means, but remember that
many are still residential, so be respectful);
fossil hunting; the town’s important role in
the whaling industry of the 18th and 19th
centuries… tired of Whitby? You must be
tired of life!
>
August 2024

WHITBY
HOMES TO BUY

Mayield Road, Whitby, £600,000
A detached house that has had a
stunning renovation and is now a
high-spec contemporary family
home with light-illed interiors and
landscaped gardens. Unrecognisable
from the original 1970’s building with
the property extended to the front by a
glazed extension that offers a spacious
entrance hall and a snug/TV room.
hopeandbraimestateagents.co.uk

Cottages in Henrietta Street, near the foot of the 199 steps

BAG A PROPERTY
Whitby has a nice mix of properties for sale,
and at afordable prices. Looking for a one-bed
lat in a converted landmark Victorian hotel,
complete with balcony and sea views? It’s
yours for just £150,000. If you’re climbing
the property ladder, there are plenty of newbuilds available on the outskirts, with prices
generally in the £300,000-£400,000 range
for three to four bedrooms. Or a gorgeous
Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse with

seven bedrooms will set you back just
£895,000.
Whitby is only reachable by train via
Middlesbrough or, in the summer months,
by steam train from Pickering. It’s a halfhour drive from the next biggest centre of
population, Scarborough. Travel by car is
probably the most convenient way to get to
Whitby, but that does mean that parking can
be at a real premium in the busier months.

Mandalay House, Esk Terrace,
Whitby, £575,000
This Victorian townhouse with views
across the harbour has private parking
and a garden close to the town centre.
This period home spans ive loors
and has been carefully restored while
incorporating contemporary interiors
with a touch of luxury.
hopeandbraimestateagents.co.uk

Town life

Lois Vorrett of Botham’s Whitby. Photo: Botham’s

August 2024

Lois Borrett is the great-greatgranddaughter of Botham’s
Bakery founder Elizabeth
Botham, and heads up the
bakery’s Finishing Room.
‘When the sun’s shining and
the Whitby lemon buns are
iced, you’ll ind me at the family
beach hut – summers for the
Botham family are all about the
beach! We’ve lots of tricks up
our sleeves for beach hut days
– pre-slicing and buttering
Heritage Ginger Loaf is our top
hack. And you’ll always ind our

Resolution Tea in the hut for
post-dip warm-ups.
‘We like to make the most
of Fusco’s Royal Fisheries’
app to pre-order fish and
chips, or order pizza from the
clifftop Pizza West: surf
and a slice!
‘My role includes product
development, and I personally
love Whitby Sea Salt. We use
it in many of our bakes; most
recently I created a Whitby Sea
Salt & Caramel Biscuit for May’s
Fish & Ships Festival.’

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

FOOD & DRINK
Tasting the best of Yorkshire
SUMMER SIPS

ON YOUR SIDE

SHAUN RANKIN

Quirky places to grab a
drink in Yorkshire’s sunny season

Perfect accompanying dishes
for your summer barbecue

The Grantley Hall chef
cooks with grouse

LOVE A SUMMERY STREET FOOD FIX?

PHOTO:WAKEFIELD.GOV

Every third Friday and Saturday of alternating months,
Wakeield hosts its Peddler Market, one of the country’s
leading street food events. Head to Wakeield’s Tileyard
North on Friday and Saturday August 16/17.
Other markets include Ossett Market every
Tuesday and Friday, or swing by Pontefract’s indoor
and outdoor markets for freshly handmade produce,
open six days a week.
If you’re looking for foodie delights this August Bank
Holiday weekend (23-26), check out the Continental
Street Food Market in Carlton Street in Castleford.
Visit peddler.market/location/wakeield/
and experiencewakeield.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

FLAVOURS
of the month

Tuck into these marvellous
morsels from Yorkshire
COMPILED BY:

Emma Mayoh

CH EF’S TA BL E

ROWAN CLAUGHTON
PHOTO:ROWANCLAUGHTON

Great British Bake Of’s Rowan Claughton shared his long-held love of baking – served with a side of
humour – on the popular Channel 4 show. Now a food content creator and writer, the 22-year-old, who
lives in Boston Spa, has partnered with Yorkshire Sculpture Park and will host a special afternoon tea
on Yorkshire Day, August 1, with Yorkshire-inspired tea and lemon sponge with passionfruit curd, a
demonstration and question and answer session. He says: ‘Bringing you a summer of cake imagined
by me and culminating in an afternoon tea event on Yorkshire Day, this partnership was written in the
stars after being a lifelong visitor to the park.’

What have you been
up to recently?
I’ve baked like I’ve never baked
before. I thought practising for
Bake Of would have been the
peak of chaos in my kitchen, but
when it’s your job and your hobby
you ind yourself tethered to the
oven all day. I’m not complaining,
though. The end result does
sweeten the chaos somewhat.
Even less glamorously, I’ve been
sending a lot of emails. If you’re
a freelancer, you’ll understand
the constant desire to secure
work for the coming months.
Thankfully, it seems to be paying
of, although my friend does call
me the king of the cold email!
Tell us about your
partnership with YSP
The Yorkshire Sculpture Park has
been a weekend destination for
my family since I can remember.
I’m only in the irst phase of my
career post Bake Of, and to mark
it with a collaboration with YSP,
where I get to share my cake
creation with the patrons of the
park, seemed itting. I was once
the person eating the cake, and
now I’m creating it too.
What are you looking
forward to about the
Yorkshire Day event?
I’m excited to try something
70

August 2024

new and share the day with
those who choose to spend it
with me. I’m honoured that
people would come and see me
chat and spread my passion and
knowledge for baking. It’s also
nice to be hosting the event in
familiar surroundings, which
makes me more comfortable as
I tick of another ‘irst’, this time
public speaking.
What memories stand
out for you and your
Bake Of experience?
I remember on the irst day of
ilming, before we started to
bake, hearing Alison Hammond
walk down to the tent as we
waited at our benches. You could
hear, rather than see her initially,
because her laugh entered the
room irst. It’s my favourite thing
about her and it completely put
me at ease. She’s the human
embodiment of anti-anxiety.
First dish/bake you
learned to cook?
We’re going back in time now,
but jam tarts really were my jam.
My parents would prop me on a
stool and teach me the basics of
pastry, sometimes even letting
me rub the butter into the lour.
My favourite part, however, was
dolloping the diferent jams into
the pastry shells which lined a

worn Yorkshire pudding tin.
I didn’t have any brothers or
sisters, so this really was the
peak of fun for me.

time we introduced the family
to our place. We still have the
grainy pictures of me devouring
a margherita pizza somewhere.

Most vivid childhood
food memory?
One evening, I was given a plate
of bean pie. I was watching a kid’s
TV show about school children
living like Victorians and sat
on my lap was a concoction of
baked beans, kidney beans, and
more cannellini beans, bound
together by ketchup and topped
with mashed potato. I looked
back up at the school children,
clad in Victorian garb, and felt
an instant connection with them
as they spooned gruel into their
mouths. I vowed never to eat
beans again.

Favourite ingredient?
For something sweet, vanilla
bean paste. The little lecks of
vanilla seeds look irresistible in
buttercream and sponge cake,
and I tend to spoon it into most
bakes because it adds an extra
je ne sais quoi that a standard
vanilla extract doesn’t achieve.
For savoury, it has to be a jar of
minced garlic in vinegar. The
vinegar almost matures the
garlic lavour.

Most memorable meal out?
There was a restaurant on
Horsforth high street called
Café Marinetti. It was imperfect
and comforting, clad with faux
marble tables and paper napkins
poking out of wine glasses.
I seem to remember there was
a spiral staircase leading from
the ground loor to the toilets,
which was very exciting for a kid
who’d only known the creaky
stairs of a modest semi-detached
in Wortley. We often took the
trip over to Horsforth, and one

Your go-to snack?
I love bread. It’s my life source,
my friend, and my foe. If there’s
fresh bread in my house, I will
gravitate to it like a ish to water.
Focaccia, topped with laky salt,
will always be my favourite,
closely followed by a bagel.
Your dream dinner guest?
Joanna Lumley, darling. It’s hard
to write about her without my
internal monologue adopting her
distinct tone, and to sit across
from her, eating something posh
and sipping Bolly would send
that monologue into a spiral. I
just ind her fascinating, and her
experience unrivalled. I’d like to

PHOTO:ROWANCLAUGHTON

FLAVOURS
...
People

ask her about her life and career,
and discuss her philanthropic
work. I’d want to show her my
Absolutely Fabulous inspired
pies I made in my inal week of
Bake Of.
Your guilty food pleasure?
A mountain of crispy chips, with
salt visible from a mile away.
Who are your Yorkshire
food and drink heroes?
James Martin. I admire the
longevity of his TV and print
career, especially as I’m trying to
break more into the food writing
scene myself. I also think the
people behind Bluebird Bakery in
York and beyond are gods. Their
sourdough is immense.
A place you love to eat?
I like Ambiente Tapas in York
and Leeds. I recommend the
Zanahoria con hummus and
prawn gambas. The house white
is also delicious.
A career highlight?
Aside from working with the
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, one of
my highlights has to be developing
my food writing. I’ve developed,
written and produced recipes for
many food and drink brands, and
I was given the chance to provide a
recipe for a national PR campaign.
I get to use my expensive English
degree for something I love to do
– talk about food!

ROWAN’S FAVOURITE BAKE
I love to bake cakes, and when I do, I really
go for it. I want as many layers to pack as
much lavour as possible. I love to load a
lemon cake up with curd, buttercream and
lemon caramel, but what I really like to do
is make them taller each time. Take, for
example, my 21st birthday cake. Layers upon
layers of sponge, creams, curds, jams and
mousses. It was ridiculously extravagant.

What’s next?
I want to write. I love putting
words on a page and telling a
story with them, whether that be
about food or writing recipes. In
the future, I’d like to write a TV
show. It’s a huge veer away from
my current career trajectory, but
I’ve always had ideas spiralling in
my head, waiting to be imagined.
Oh, and I wouldn’t mind baking
on the telly again – that was fun!
The Yorkshire Tea bake
will be on sale all summer
at the YSP’s cafés and The
Weston Restaurant with
every penny of proit going
to the registered charity and
museum. To book for Rowan’s
afternoon tea call 01924
832508 or email hospitality@
ysp.org.uk

August 2024

E X PERT GU I DE

PHOTO:BOOTHS,LAPOQUAGLI

Tasting
Notes
This summer Booths will
be brimming with fabulous
Italian food and drink as they
introduce their Bellissimo
Booths campaign sharing great
food, recipes and some fantastic
summer wines. The Booths
buyers have expanded their
range from aromatic whites to
bold Super Tuscan wines. Italy’s
remarkable range of indigenous
grape varieties, regions and
styles make it a great time to
try a new wine and experiment
with new grape varieties.
Here’s all you need for a perfect
Italian summer.
booths.co.uk

Anselmi San Vicenzo, Veneto, £13
A fruity, youthful white wine with
crisp, clean lavours that match
well with seafood or white meat.
PHOTO:GETTYIMAGES

M A K E A ME A L OF I T

Borgo Conventi Ribolla Gialla,
Venezia Giulia IGT, £14
An ancient white variety rarely
seen elsewhere. Notes of citrus
and blossom pair well with salmon.

Broad beans
A veg patch favourite, these podded beans are packed with
the good stuf – vitamins A, B1 and B2, as well as lots of
protein. Easy to grow, your planting eforts in the autumn
(for hardy varieties) and spring will be rewarded when
the weather turns warm. Broad beans ofer a real taste
of summer, working well in salads, stews and soups.

HOW TO GROW

ENJOY FOR LONGER

HOW TO EAT

Sow hardy varieties in
autumn or sow indoors or
outdoors in March or April.
If the weather is cold, make
sure to sow under cover
irst. If you don’t want
to sow from seed, young
plants tend to be available
in early spring. Harvest
when pods are 6cm long.

These sweet beans have
a relatively short natural
season. The good news
is that they freeze well.
Remove from the pods,
blanch in boiling water for a
few minutes, before popping
in freezer bags, making sure
to remove as much air from
the bag as possible.

Great as the star of the
show in a salad, cooked
up with courgettes and
peas, as a nutritious topping
for bruschetta slathered
with goat’s cheese, or
whizzed in a blender
with garlic mint, olive
oil and parsley for a
refreshing summer dip.

August 2024

Santa Tresa Organic
Frappato, Sicily, £12
This red wine, with strawberry
and cherry lavours, is best
served chilled and with ish.

Paleo Leo Mora Mora Malvasia
Nera, IGP Salento, £12
Aromatic black grapes. Best
sipped chilled paired with cured
meats and cheese.

Le Volte dell’Ornellaia,
Tuscany, £25
Damson and plum lavours pair
beautifully with Tuscan style steak.

Yorkshire Life

FLAVOURS
...
Menu

Tried &
Tasted
Amber’s Restaurant,
Harrogate,
Cedar Court Hotel Harrogate,
Park Parade, Harrogate HG1 5AH
01423 858585
ambersrestaurant.co.uk

PHOTO:HARROGATESPRINGWATER

VENUE: After a cool half-amillion-pound revamp, Amber’s
is the latest restaurant set to
wow guests at the Cedar Court
Hotel Group’s lagship hotel in
Harrogate. A short stroll from
the town centre, the restaurant
is open to residents and nonresidents. The space is decadent
and provides the wow factor,
with room for 75 guests.

T H IS MON T H T RY

A mindful mocktail
Mindful drinking is all the rage at the moment and
Harrogate Spring Water’s Mindful Drinking Mission is all
about encouraging people to be more considered in their
approach to drinking. They have created opportunities
to make the most out of life’s moments, drink after drink,
with their range of Mindful Mocktails, meaning you can
still enjoy the ritual without the sore head the next day.
harrogatespring.com

MENU: In keeping with the décor,
expect modern British cuisine
showcasing the best of Yorkshire
and the British Isles. Passionate
about supporting local and
regional suppliers, expect 28-day
dry-aged steaks, Hereford- breed
beef, sourced locally from Sykes
House Farm in Wetherby, roasted
Gressingham Duck breast and
Wharfedale lamb. For dessert, you
can’t beat rhubarb and custard
locally sourced from Wakeield.

M A K E YO U R O W N

A light and zesty summer
spritz with the bright essence
of lemon and the subtle
botanical hints of lemon
thyme. Light, refreshing
and elegantly refined,
this cocktail featured
at this year’s Royal Ascot at
the Harrogate Spring Water
Mindful Drinking Bar.
Ingredients
Cubed ice
50ml Rhubarb 0% Spirit
20ml fresh lemon juice
15ml lemon thyme syrup

Yorkshire Life

(method below)
Harrogate Sparkling Water
Lemon thyme and lemon
to garnish
Method
Fill a 16oz glass with ice. Add
all ingredients (except the
sparkling water) to a cocktail
shaker with ice and shake
until chilled.
Strain shaker contents
into the glass and top with
Harrogate Sparkling Water.
Garnish with a lemon wheel
and a sprig of lemon thyme.

To make the lemon
thyme syrup
Ratio should be 2 parts sugar
to 1 part water. Then the
ratio of fresh lemon thyme
to liquid should be 1/10. E.g.
150ml liquid would need
15 grams of lemon thyme.
Add water, sugar and lemon
thyme to pan, stir and let it
simmer gently for around
10 minutes until the sugar
has dissolved. Leave to
infuse for an hour or so
until cooled and decant into
a sterilised container.

PHOTO:AMBER’SRESTAURANT

Lemon thyme spritz

WHAT WE LOVED: The stylish
surroundings, paired with quality,
local ingredients, topped off with
the friendliest of staff, makes
for a true Yorkshire experience.
Their Thursday Club is a great
way to experience the place with
a well-priced set menu and live
music, even better is the resident’s
discount for those with a HG1
postcode when they sign up to
Friends of Amber’s. We loved
discovering The Imaginarium
– a beautiful private dining
space for up to 28 guests.
Review by Beth Windsor

August 2024

SHAUN RANKIN
The Michelin-starred chef at Grantley Hall, Ripon, shares his life in food

PHOTO:TOMSYKES

ro sted r
i
hin
e barbecu

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

LIFE IN FOOD

SE A SONA L
INGR EDIEN T

PHOTO:TOMSYKES

Grouse

elcome back to Yorkshire Life
for what has to be one of my
most favourite months of the
year. August in Yorkshire is
particularly delightful as the landscape
is transformed into a rich tapestry of
heather-laden moorlands, golden ields of
wheat and barley, and hedgerows bursting with
seasonal berries and lora – a true forager’s
paradise, especially under the hue of the
summer sunshine.
Perhaps the most exciting time for me is
the arrival of the Glorious Twelfth and with
it, the beginning of game season, which in
Yorkshire is the heartbeat of many rural
communities and a key culinary marker for
chefs to enjoy the best of our county’s produce.
Although sometimes overlooked, grouse is
one of my favourite game birds to cook with
their exceptional depth of lavour developing
from delicate notes of wild heather to a rich and
gamey proile as we move through to autumn.
To mark the occasion, I’m sharing the best
way to cook grouse, including a little barbecue
cooking, which is perfect for summer too.
Your local butcher is your go-to for inding
beautiful, locally sourced grouse, best enjoyed
alongside roasted celeriac and homemade
pickled blackcurrants which are bang in
season in August.
1. Combine one litre of water, 150g salt and
50g sugar into a pan, add the bird and allow
to brine for 30 minutes. This will ensure that
the legs are not tough when cooked.
2. Remove the ofal, wishbone and head
from the bird.
3. Poach the grouse in a seasoned chicken
stock with thyme, garlic and bay leaf
for three minutes. Transfer to the
barbecue for three minutes and allow to
cook over the hot charcoal.
4. Transfer to a pre-heated oven and roast at
180°C for six minutes, then allow to rest for
four minutes.
5. Serve either on the bone or carve to
your preference.

Thirsk and Bedale are two beautiful
market towns which are both home to
The Yorkshire Greengrocer, an incredible
purveyor of some of the inest locallysourced produce you can get your hands
on in North Yorkshire.
The business is run by husband-andwife team Charlie and Fiona, as well
as Fiona’s brother, James, and at this
time of year their stores are stocked

with everything from soft fruits and
seasonal vegetables to fresh eggs,
and even a selection of bedding plants
and hanging baskets for your garden!
I’m incredibly lucky to have a diverse
range of small, independent suppliers
on my doorstep and a traditional
greengrocer really is the backbone of the
British high street – it’s so important to
shop local where we can.

TIME OFF IN YORKSHIRE
August is always a busy month for me
and this year is no exception as I look
forward to my sons, Harry and Ethan,
joining me for the summer holidays here
in Yorkshire. York is always our go-to day
out with the boys and a trip to the Jorvik
Viking Centre is excellent if your children
are history fanatics like mine.
Escaping the hustle and bustle of the
city, I’m also looking forward to some
quality time with family on the Yorkshire
Coast, including a ride on the North York
Moors Railway to enjoy the spectacular
scenery on ofer.

August 2024

PHOTO:CHARLOTTEGRAHAM

Yorkshire Life

A FOODIE FIND

SABRINA GHAYOUR
Happily planted in Yorkshire, Sabrina shares the food love

ummer has been wholly unpredictable on so many
fronts that the weather genuinely feels like the last
thing to complain about. But the absence of some
consistent warmth has left me a little under the
weather, if you will. I know we live in England, but may
we dare to dream? Dare to hope for a few weeks of solid
sunshine, even 22 degrees, each summer? Well even if
we have had some rays, they don’t nearly feel like enough
and I’m not ashamed to tell you that I have been seeking
solace in comfort food and eating, as if it were mid-winter.
Nothing can change my mood quite like a decent
oversized mug of Yorkshire Gold tea, some biscuits and
comfy pyjamas, which I’m happy to tell you that I never
change out of, some days. And so it got me thinking, in
a world that is slowly beginning to feel like very little is
within our control anymore, what do we do? Where do
we turn, when all else fails? And then it hit me, like a bolt
of lightning that made me choke on my last slurp of tea…
‘Food, glorious food! Hot sausage and mustard!’ – that
famous song from the 1960 theatre production of Oliver!
Food really is the ultimate comfort and let’s be honest,
comfort food can hold very diferent meanings from one
person to another but for me, it always means eating the
food my body craves at that very moment in time and
I must admit, dear reader, that this can sometimes even
be a lettuce-laden salad in the deepest, darkest depths
of winter but for the most part, I love roasts, stews, pies,
cakes, sarnies, noodles, pasta, rice and, well, you can see

where this is going – carbs! Glorious alabaster stodge,
in every form, preferably doused in something gloopy
whether that be bread dunked in a nice thick soup or
potatoes swimming in gravy and rice topped with curry
or sauce… it’s all good, I won’t discriminate. I have love
for it all. Because the truth is, there is a certain trusted
reliability with comfort eating… it never lets you down,
it rarely disappoints, it always tastes good and feels like
the hug you need right when you need it.
So I ask you, if just half an hour of time in the kitchen
means you can conjure up the kind of comfort that will
help you forget life’s little let-downs, even temporarily,
would it make you cook a bit more often?
Well let me start you of with this wonderful little cake
recipe that is oh so familiar on some levels and 100 per
cent the kind of comfort I turn to when the chips are down.
My iced lemon almond loaf cake is just the ticket for
a little pick-me-up, anytime of day. I am unashamed to
say I am actually enjoying a slice right now (this is no
lie) which in turn inspired this month’s column because
when all is said and done, it’s the little things that perk
us up. I can’t control the weather, the world or indeed
anything else that gets thrown at me but this glorious
little loaf cake takes minutes to mix and needs no fancy
equipment to bring it together.
So make a little time and get this cake in the oven
because I promise you, within an hour, plus a little extra
cooling time, you’ll have every comfort you will need.

Iced lemon almond loaf cake
This has quickly become our house
favourite, and it’s my youngest
stepson’s number one cake, with
good reason. It is super-delicious and
therefore totally moreish, yet also
incredibly simple to make. When
I irst started making it, a loaf would
disappear within a couple of hours and
I was baking three or four each week to
keep up with demand. So beware – I’ve
given you plenty of warning that this
cake is highly addictive!
(serves 6–8)

For the icing
6tbsp icing sugar, sifted
Juice of ½ lemon, left over from the
cake ingredients
Hundreds and thousands, to decorate

METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C/
(160°C fan)/Gas Mark 4.
Line a 900g loaf tin with a non-stick
paper liner or cut a rectangle of baking
paper, scrunch it up, then smooth
it out and use it to line the tin.

PHOTO:KRISKIRKHAM

INGREDIENTS
3 eggs
150g caster sugar
2tsp lemon extract
(alcohol-free)
1tsp almond extract
(alcohol-free)
100g plain lour
1tsp baking powder
100g ground almonds
150g unsalted butter, melted
Finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon
and the juice of ½ lemon

August 2024

Put the eggs, caster sugar, and lemon
and almond extracts into a mixing bowl
and beat together until well combined.
Add the lour, baking powder,
ground almonds, melted butter,
lemon zest and the juice of half
the lemon and mix thoroughly
until you have a smooth batter.
Pour the batter into the lined tin
and bake for 1 hour, or until cooked

through and a skewer or knife inserted
into the centre comes out clean.
Meanwhile, put the sifted icing
sugar in a small bowl and slowly
add just enough lemon juice,
stirring as you go, to form a thick,
smooth spreadable icing.
Remove the cake from oven, turn it out
of the tin and place on a wire rack.
Quickly drizzle or spread the
icing over the cake, sprinkle with
hundreds and thousands and
leave to cool before serving.

Taken from Persiana
Everyday by Sabrina
Ghayour, published by
Mitchell Beazley, £25.
octopusbooks.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

RECIPES

A BIT
on the

SIDE
Put these tasty accompanying dishes to
the test at your next barbecue
COMPILED BY:

Kelly Rose Bradford

Barbecued sweetcorn
with black bean guacamole (serves two)
These gently spiced ears of grilled corn and creamy guacamole are perfect for al fresco dining

PHOTO:ABEL&COLE

Yorkshire Life

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

2 sweetcorn cobs
1tbsp pumpkin seeds
Salt for seasoning
A few pinches of chilli powder
1 avocado
2 vine tomatoes
400g tin of black beans
1 lime
A handful of coriander
150g soured cream
½tbsp oil
75g natural tortilla chips
Green salad, to serve

Put a large pan of salted water
on to boil. Light your barbecue, if
you’re using it. Pull the leaves and
silks off the sweetcorn cobs. When
the water is boiling, add the corn
and simmer for ive mins. Drain
and leave the cobs to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, set a dry frying pan
over a medium heat. Tip in the
pumpkin seeds and dust in ½tsp
salt and a small pinch of chilli
powder. Dry fry for two to three
minutes until the seeds pop,
shaking the pan while they cook.
Tip into a small bowl. Set aside.
Halve the avocado and discard
the stone. Scoop out the lesh
and roughly chop it. Roughly
chop the tomatoes. Drain and
rinse the black beans. Mix them
all together in a large bowl.
Zest and juice the lime. Reserve
the zest for later. Pour the lime
juice into the bowl. Gently mix

together. This is your black
bean guacamole. Set aside.
Pick the leaves from the coriander
sprigs. Finely chop the stalks.
Spoon the soured cream into a
small bowl. Stir in the chopped
coriander stalks and the lime zest.
Season with a little salt. Set aside.
Mix ½tbsp oil with a pinch of chilli
powder. Lay the sweetcorn cobs in
a large dish and pour over the spicy
oil. Rub all over the cobs. Pop them
on the barbecue or under the grill for
10 mins. Turn regularly until charred.
Transfer to a serving platter.
Spoon the soured cream over
the cobs and sprinkle with the
pumpkin seeds. Serve with the
guacamole, tortilla chips and
green salad. Scatter over the
coriander leaves to garnish.
Recipe courtesy of
abelandcole.co.uk

August 2024

PHOTO:OPIES

Caramelised pear, blue cheese and
pickled walnut salad (serves two)
This tangy, crunchy salad is sure to become a favourite all year round

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

For the dressing

In a small bowl mix together
all the dressing ingredients
until smooth and season
with black pepper.

50ml buttermilk
50g soured cream
50g mayonnaise
1tsp white wine vinegar
75g blue cheese, crumbled
Couple dashes
Worcestershire sauce

For the salad
2 small pears
Knob of butter
15g muscovado sugar
2 large handfuls
mixed leaf lettuce
4 Opies pickled walnuts,
sliced into rounds
1tbsp sunlower seeds

August 2024

Cut the pears into thin
slices. Add the butter to
a frying pan on a medium
heat, wait until foaming
and add the slices of
pear, ensuring they aren’t
overlapping (you may have
to do this in two batches).
Sprinkle over the sugar
and allow to fry for three
minutes until golden and
the sugar is caramelised.
Flip the slices and cook

for another three minutes.
Remove from the pan
with a slotted spoon
and allow to cool.
Toss together the salad
leaves with the pickled
walnuts and sunlower
seeds with two tablespoons
of dressing until the
leaves are well coated.
Divide onto two plates,
top with the pear slices
and an extra drizzle
of dressing.
Recipe courtesy of
bennettopie.com

Yorkshire Life

u
a
zz

n
o

H O:SACLA

,
190g
o

Barbecue tool set,
£44.95, annabeljames.co.uk

Fruit print picnic basket,
£18, lyingtiger.com

Acacia salad servers,
£12, procook.co.uk

Bistro grill gas stove,
£99.99, campingaz.co.uk

Wonderland ready-to-drink picnic
cocktails, £3.90 each, brewdog.com

Smart bluetooth barbecue
thermometer, £49, barbequick.com

Akinod magnetic cutlery,
£24.95, berryuseful.co.uk

MUST
HAVES
Elevate your al fresco feasts with these
barbecue and picnic accessories
COMPILED BY:

Banhoek chilli oil barbecue condiment,
£8.50, banhoekchillioil.co.uk

August 2024

Fire starter,
£14.99, dobbies.com

Kelly Rose Bradford

Feuerhand Tamber table top grill,
£99.95, berryuseful.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

SHOPPING

Gozney Roccb
box piizza oven,
£399, dobbies.com

Botanics paper napkins,
£3.49, giselagraham.co.uk

Marbury rattan picnic basket,
£90, marquisanddawe.co.uk

Insulated picnic backpack,
£49, procook.co.uk

OxyLED garden lights,
£36.99 for four, amazon.co.uk

Waterproof 15l cool bag backpack,
£134.95, red-equipment.co.uk

Chiminea with barbecue rack,
£381, irepitsuk.co.uk

Alphon plastic jug and beaker set,
£27.99, wayfair.co.uk

Portable suitcase barbecue,
£39.95, rexlondon.com

Marbury round rattan wine cooler,
£45, marquisanddawe.co.uk

Wool and cotton picnic blanket,
£168, socosy.co.uk

Set of four slogan plates,
£70, yvonneellen.com

Two-in-one smoker and charcoal grill,
£69.99, towerhousewares.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

Portable hammock,
£32.80, sostrenegrene.com

August 2024

QUIRKY
for
BARS

summer sips
With the summer upon us,
BETHAN ANDREWS delves into some
of the quirkiest places to grab a
drink in Yorkshire’s sunny season

THE OLD
LIQUOR STORE
York
The Old Liquor Store, which opened
last summer in the historic Grade
II listed former Terry’s Chocolate
Factory, has expanded with the
addition of a 40-cover outdoor terrace.
The new south-facing Joseph Perrier
Champagne terrace and oyster bar is
adjacent to the restaurant in a tranquil
courtyard garden area which beneits
from views of the iconic 135ft clock
tower. A special champagne cream
tea consisting of freshly baked scones,
jam and cream served with a glass of
champagne for two people is £19.95.
theoldliquorstore.co.uk
QUIRK FACTOR:
Champagne and oysters in a listed
former factory.

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

1 STORIES

An interesting place for
a bar – The Race Room in
Manield. Photo: gaspphotoco

KIP AND NOOK
Manield
New for summer 2024, Kip and Nook, a
glamping spot in North Yorkshire, is bringing
something diferent. The Race Room is illed
with classic cars to ogle at while sipping your
cocktails, and there’s a car simulator too.
Where did the idea come from?
Owner Ben Rennison grew up around
cars with his dad Mark, a rallycross
British champion, hence his own rally
racing and interest in cars. ‘The workshop
had always been a big feature onsite, and
everyone adored the interior, so once we
added the co-working space and yoga studio
upstairs, we needed a place to store the car
collection. The race room now serves as an
admirable storage room as well as an extra
function room.

Yorkshire Life

Was it always the plan to incorporate
a quirky drinks ofering ?
We’ve always wanted drinks in the workshop
and thanks to our team we managed to craft
a cocktail menu with classics as well as what
we call the Kip and Nook creations. These are
exclusive to our bar – we’ve even had recipe
inspiration from guests who have stayed.
Where did the idea for the G&T
and Cocktail Van come from?
Ever since we opened the workshop,
we had the van inside as part of the
interior but as an idea we decided to do the
inside up and put adjustable windows in so
we could serve drinks out of it. Once we got
a bigger bar, we thought it was best to utilise
the views and the outdoor space, so we then

made it into our summer/events G&T and
drinks van.
What quirky elements are the best?
The workshop – it’s a versatile space where
guests can come and go and use the facilities.
As for the Race Room, the most favoured
area would have to be Alf’s own workshop,
the owner’s little brother, who takes part in
enduro biking. You can see all his bikes and
tools through a big window. This shows there
are areas that are in use and gives it more
character than usual. The vast car and truck
collection is a cherished part of the race room.
Kip and Nook on Facebook
QUIRK FACTOR: Glamping
and classic cars.

August 2024

BIRCH HALL INN
Beck Hole
When it comes to something a little
bit diferent, the smallest pub in
Yorkshire ticks all the boxes. You’ll
ind the tiny Birch Hall Inn in Beck
Hole, near Whitby, and it’s an ancient
pub with a whole lot of soul. The
quirkiness of the place comes mostly
from its petite size, but also in the
way in which it is simply run. It’s a
little like stepping back in time, so
you won’t ind any wii here and it’s
cash only, too. It’s also been named as
one of the best pubs in the country by
National Geographic.
Birch Hall Inn Beck Hole
on Facebook
QUIRK FACTOR:
The tiniest pub in Yorkshire.

KIRKSTALL BREWERY
AT THE TETLEY
Leeds

HYDE PARK BOOK CLUB
Leeds
It doesn’t get much more quirky than sitting
in a disused petrol station forecourt for
your Friday night beverage. But, despite
it sounding less than salubrious, you’ll be
pleasantly surprised by the vibes at Hyde
Park Book Club. The former fuel stop is
packed full to the brim with creativity,
parties and, of course, good drink.
Founder Jack Simpson tells us more.

August 2024

What quirky elements
do you like best?
I like how things are in lux. We don’t have
a big plan that’s costed and rolled out.
Someone comes in to hide from the rain and
ends up running a lower shop here, jazzers
hang out so we do a record of Leeds jazz,
and dog bowls and deck chairs just appear!
There’s a nice energy and everything seems
to low from that.

QUIRK FACTOR:
A landmark building.

What can people expect
from you this summer?
We have lots of great one-of shows. There’s
always a chilled space for writers.
Drink of the season?
Personally, it’s a hot cofee in the morning,
and then an Aperol or Radler later on.
hydeparkbookclub.co.uk
PHOTO:GETTY

Where did the idea for Hyde
Park Book Club come from?
I’ve worked in music and the arts in Leeds
since I was really young and I’ve travelled
and lived in other cities, and just visited a
lot of diferent places – a magazine shop in
a bar in Tokyo, a venue that just did talks
and more cerebral stuf in Brooklyn, a bar
that felt so laid back that you couldn’t work
out if it was actually a business in Berlin,
the list goes on.
The inspiration from these and other
places just accumulated and came out
when we started to do stuf in the space at
Hyde Park Book Club. It was just going to
be cofee and beer, but then we had DJs,

exhibitions and a seance, and it just started
to develop its own momentum.

Kirkstall Brewery at The Tetley is a
unique place to enjoy a pint or two.
Just opened, the drinks establishment
is aiming to renew the building’s
status as a landmark of Yorkshire
beer culture. The Tetley is the former
brewing headquarters of Tetley’s
Brewery, built in the quirky Art
Deco style of the 1930s. In the 1980s,
Tetley’s Brewery became the largest
producer of cask ale in the world, and
the site has remained an icon of Leeds
beer history, even after its closure in
2011. Today, you can enjoy a drink here
again thanks to Kirkstall Brewery and
the sensitive restoration makes for a
unique experience.
kirkstallbrewery.com

QUIRK FACTOR:
A former petrol station.

Yorkshire Life

10 STORIES

The Thor’s tipi vibe
comes to Leeds this
summer. This is one of
Thor’s venues in York
Photo: @kluens

THOR’S SUMMER RESIDENCY
Leeds

Tipis are often associated with the twinkly festive season, but Thor’s
Summer Residency is opening its irst one in Leeds this summer
and it’s set to be a unique place to head to for a tipple. The tipi bar
will transform the City Square into a lively venue and will combine
cocktails with outdoor games, easels and ice cream. Expect live bands

and plenty of action, and instead of festive fairy lights, think tropical
plants, foliage and greenery in abundance.
thorstipi.com
QUIRK FACTOR: A pop-up in a tipi.

PUBLIC
Sheield

OPPOSITE CAFE
Chapel Allerton

THE BRAIN JAR BAR
Hull

You wouldn’t think the site of a former
public toilet could become something
so cool, let alone something that you
would want to eat or drink at, but
Public in Sheield is changing people’s
opinions. The table service cocktail
bar celebrates all things local and
Yorkshire, and has been described
as ‘a Wes Anderson train carriage
crowbarred in to an old bog’.
publicpublic.co.uk

Can’t choose between a hit of the strong
stuf in the form of cafeine or a hit of
the strong stuf from your favourite
liquor? Visit Opposite Cafe in Chapel
Allerton. The independent cofee shop
is set to transform into a cocktail bar
by night as part of a pop-up with
Leeds-based Blank Canvas Drinks.
Expect espresso martinis made with
Opposite Cafe’s own espresso.
Opposite Cafe on Facebook

Regardless of the fact you could
be served by a world-champion
compet ing cock ta i l creator,
The Brain Jar Bar is about as
quirky as it comes. The space is
full of artist collaborations and
you can expect some wild and
s c ient i f ic a l ly put tog et her
cocktail concoctions.
theoldliquorstore.co.uk

QUIRK FACTOR:
A former public toilet.

QUIRK FACTOR:
A side of cofee with your cocktail?

Yorkshire Life

QUIRK FACTOR:
Science lab wizardry from
a cocktail champ.

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

OUTDOOR LIFE
Walks, big views, and fresh Yorkshire air
24 HOURS IN BOSTON SPA

EARL CRAG EXPEDITION

Writer and photographer Caroline
Smith shares the secrets of the town

Scale a crag near Skipton crowned
by two curious monuments

.PHOTO:COASTANDCAMPLIGHT

RAMBLE THE RIDINGS
Mark Yorkshire Day with a tour of
the borders of Yorkshire’s Ridings

GO OFF-GRID THIS SUMMER
Let the kids go feral and run free along mown trails through the
rewilded ields at Coast and Camplight; or play at being on safari
by sitting outside and spying deer, owls or bats at twilight. All
this comes as second nature if families stay in one of Coast and
Camplight’s three safari-style tents, each sleeping four with woodburning stoves, open wooden verandas complete with galley kitchen,

Yorkshire Life

their own inside/outside shower and loo, and spacious outdoor area
with irepit and seating. Each of the of-grid tents stand in complete
seclusion in their own patch of wilderness in countryside on the
outskirts of Whitby.
Stays from £110 per night for a family of four.
coastandcamplight.co.uk

August 2024

GO RAMBLING

RIDINGS

high
We mark Yorkshire Day on August 1
with a tour of the borders of Yorkshire’s
Ridings - 50 years after the redrawing
of the county’s political boundary
WORDS:

Paul Kirkwood PHOTOS: Paul Kirkwood & Getty

Stanedge Pole
marks the border
between Yorkshire
and Derbyshire

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

STANEDGE POLE

The moor between the
path up to Stanedge Pole

Marking the border between Yorkshire and
Derbyshire, the 450-metre-high Stanage
Edge feels like a frontier, complete with
border post. Viewed from a distance,
Stanedge Pole, set back from the Edge,
looks like a boat adrift on a sea of moorland.
The hull is a cluster of rocks and the whitepainted larch trunk makes a convincing
mast, sheathed at its foot by a band of iron
rods and topped by a metal cap. Some believe
the original pole could have been erected
to mark the frontier between the former

kingdoms of Mercia and Northumbria as
indicated on the baseplate.
From the Edge there are superb views
across the Peak District. The chimney and
cylinders of the Hope cement works and
the stegosaurus proile of the more distant
Chrome Hill seem to belong to another
country let alone county.
Head up to the Edge and pole from the
Hooks Carr car park and on your walk
also check out Robin Hood’s Cave and
the millstones.
>

GO RAMBLING

BALDERSDALE AND
LUNEDALE
These two dales in the North Riding are
perfect for a half-day bike ride. Starting
from picturesque Cotherstone, head
initially towards Hury Reservoir. Use the
hide at Blackton Reservoir for some bird
spotting. The farm here, Low Birk Hat, was
home to Hannah Hauxwell, a hill farmer,
who worked alone and without power
or running water for 50 years until her
retirement in 1988. Her unbelievably harsh
subsistence was portrayed in Yorkshire
Television documentaries in the 1970s.
The nearby Hannah’s Barn visitors’
centre explains how the adjacent upland

hay meadow is one of the rarest natural
habitats in the country and Site of Special
Scientiic Interest.
Cycle along the dam of Balderhead
Reservoir, over the high moor and into
Lunedale. The fourth and inal reservoir,
Grassholme, is an ideal rest spot featuring
a new observatory, café and shop. The last
port of call, Romaldkirk, is a real gem
boasting the recommended Rose and
Crown inn, stone cottages around three
greens, mini-cathedral of a church, pair of
stocks and water pump. Distance: 18 miles.
Online map: bit.ly/Baldersdale

Early summer
harvesting in
Baldersdale

THE RIDINGS

The Akay ‘pepperpot’ folly.
Photo: Karen Lynch

SEDBERGH
Sedbergh lies within the West Riding and Yorkshire Dales national park but is also part
of Cumbria. In this town, what looks like a bus shelter is actually a book shelter. Sedbergh
is dominated by its 16th century public school. You can get a good view of its magniicent
playing ields, once graced by England rugby players Will Carling and Will Greenwood,
from a public footpath running up from the River Rawthey.
Start your 2½-mile stroll by heading to New Bridge to the east of the town then follow
the south bank of the river to the next road bridge, cross it and continue on the north bank
and through the old Akay estate. In the woods you can ind loor tiles from the mansion
built by the town’s chemist and druggist Charles Edward Taylor in the late 19th century
and demolished in 1938. Easier to spot is the recently restored summerhouse folly known
as the pepperpot and owned by the school. bit.ly/Akayestate

The Yorkshire Ridings Society
advocates for the wider recognition
of Yorkshire’s historic borders and its
traditional subdivisions: the North,
East, and West Ridings.
These Ridings were established
over 1,100 years ago, and the word
‘Riding’ itself comes from the Danish
term ‘thridding’, meaning a third.
The invading Danes called
representatives from each
‘Thridding’ to a thing, or parliament,
and thus established the Ridings
System. Today, Yorkshire consists
of the North, East, and West
Ridings, along with the City of York.
Interestingly, there is no South
Riding, except in a novel of that
name by Winifred Holtby.
yorkshireridingssociety.org.uk

YARM

BAWTRY

Yarm is enclosed within a meander of the Tees that used to
denote the political county border, nosing audaciously into
County Durham. Only the 500m-wide neck of the meander
prevents Yarm becoming an island. The broad high street echoes
Northallerton, Thirsk and Bedale of the North Riding with quaint
wynds leading of it adding to the appeal. The bridge over the
Tees is impressive but dwarfed by the Victorian railway viaduct.
Originally a tollbooth, Yarm town hall has recently reopened
after restoration as a heritage centre. New artworks on the
ground loor include a silver nose cast in honour of 18th century
war hero Sir Thomas Brown who had his nose cut of in battle,
a Viking helmet, and a lood bell and lion from the Tall Trees
nightclub, all presented in a replica of an Iron Age canoe found
when the railway viaduct was built. You can see Sir Thomas’s
headstone at St Mary Magdalene’s Church.

Bawtry is a grand gateway to the south of the county like Yarm is
to the North Riding. The Georgian town used to have an address
of ‘Number One Yorkshire’ but now that’s just the house name.
Bawtry has continued to thrive despite three transport related
setbacks. In the 12th century it became established as an inland
port based on the River Idle, relected by the location of St
Nicholas’ Church just of centre to the present town and near
the original course of the river. The opening of the Chesterield
Canal in 1777 marked the beginning of the end of Bawtry as a
port. Its position on the Great North Road made the town an
important coach staging post but the coming of the railway in
the mid-18th century put paid to that. The station closed in the
1960s when the town was bypassed by the new A1.
A 24-point heritage trail is available from the Heritage and
Information Centre.
>

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

BARNOLDSWICK
Called Barlick by locals, Barnoldswick
has such a split identity that welcome
signs for the town bear both the red
and white roses of Lancashire (to
which it was politically relocated in
1974) and Yorkshire, respectively. Well
worth a visit, Barnoldswick Town FC
competes in the North West Counties
League, the ifth tier of non-league
football. Named the Silentnight
Stadium after the bed manufacturing

company headquartered in the town,
the club’s characterful ground seems
embedded in the community and
environment. One stand has the
stonework of a barn and the Pennine
fells provide the backdrop.
Find out about Barnoldswick’s
industrial history by visiting the
Bancroft Mill steam engine museum
and walking the two-mile Stream &
Steam Heritage Trail, which ends

at the football ground. Download a
booklet from bit.ly/Barnoldswick.
Alternatively, cycle or walk to
Barnoldswick along the towpath
of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal,
starting at the recommended Wharf
at Foulridge café.
Look out for Barlick Beach, a pop-up
covered beach complete with donkeys
in August, and the town’s Festival of
Fire and Ice every January.

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

in
Lifestyle writer and photographer
Caroline Smith lives in Boston Spa
with husband James, and children Phoebe,
Matilda and Raferty. She tells us how a visitor
could spend 24 hours in the idyllic town

MY BOSTON SPA
MORNING
Kick-start your day with a delectable
brunch at the Pudding Lab – a must-visit
for any foodie. Owners Ashley Close and
Kian Lian, who recently appeared on BBC
Four’s Bake Of: The Professionals, have
turned this patisserie into a local gem
– the perfect spot to indulge your sweet
tooth and savour a luxurious brunch.
If you have little ones in tow, a visit to Stables
Lane Park is in order. This well-maintained
park features a delightful playground where
children can burn of energy while you relax
at the picnic benches. It’s an ideal spot for
parents to unwind and enjoy the morning
sunshine while keeping an eye on their kids.

AFTERNOON
No trip to Boston Spa would be complete
without a visit to Gifted, a treasure trove of
unique inds right on the High Street. This
charming shop ofers an impressive selection
of gifts, from handmade crafts to quirky home
decor. Judith, the lovely owner, is always on
hand to help you ind that perfect something

for a loved one or even a little treat for yourself.
Take a leisurely stroll along the River Wharfe.
The footpath runs the length of the river
and provides one of the prettiest walks in
the area – a routine I relish almost daily. If
you’re feeling adventurous, extend your walk
to Newton Kyme and circle back via the old
railway track to Thorp Arch. The picturesque
scenery and peaceful ambiance make it a
perfect afternoon activity.

EVENING
As the day winds down, book a table at Amor,
Boston Spa’s newest culinary sensation.
Helmed by the talented chef Nikki Pybus,
Amor tantalises the tastebuds with a menu
that showcases fresh, local ingredients
and innovative dishes – it’s an evening
of gastronomy you won’t want to miss.
End your day on a high note at The Crown.
When the sun is shining, head to the beer
to soak up the evening atmosphere. With
a refreshing drink in hand and the lovely
ambiance, it’s the ideal way to conclude your
perfect day in Boston Spa.

Don’t miss
in 2024
BOSTON IN BLOOM
Witness the village transform
with beautiful loral displays.
It’s a sight to behold and a
testament to the community’s
dedication to beautifying their
home. In autumn there’s a
delightful halloween trail.

BOSTON SPA: Yorkshire’s most popular village

PHOTO:CAROLINESMITH

Boston Spa is a sought-after village, just of the A1, 11 miles from Harrogate
and 13 from York, and nestled within the coveted aluent ‘Golden Triangle’
of Harrogate, York, and Leeds. The village boasts stunning Georgian
architecture and sits along the River Wharfe with picturesque views
and serene walks. Named after the natural springs discovered in the
18th century, Boston Spa is characterful and has historic signiicance.
With a growing population of around 5,000 residents, house prices
relect its desirability, with averages signiicantly higher than the national
norm, thanks to its attractive setting and excellent transport links.
Boston Spa is brimming with activities and events that foster a strong
sense of community. From the Boston Spa Festival of the Arts and
Crafts Festival to Boston in Bloom, the Green Group, and the Riverside
Committee, there’s always something happening.
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August 2024

Yorkshire Life

BEST YORKSHIRE LIFE

A ine vantage point – the bridge over the River Wharfe at Boston Spa. Photo: Kevin Gibson Photography Ltd

PHOTO:CAROLINESMITH

SENSE OF PLACE
A walk through Boston Spa reveals a village
rich in history and character. Begin your
exploration at Jezabels, a charming clothing
boutique on the High Street. Jezabels boasts a
curated selection of diferent brands, making
it a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts seeking
something unique.
Just a few steps away, you’ll ind Douglas
Yeadon hardware shop, a local institution
that has stood the test of time. Established
decades ago, this shop is often referred to as
an Aladdin’s Cave for DIY, ofering everything
from household essentials to quirky gifts. It’s a
true treasure trove where you can lose yourself
browsing the extensive range of goods.
No visit to the High Street would be
complete without stopping at Firths, the
village butcher, where there’s always a queue,
a testament to its popularity and quality.
Local produce supporting local farming.
For loral enthusiasts, Kate Mell is a mustsee. This enchanting lower shop ofers an
array of stunning blooms and plants, and is
also renowned for its event arrangements.

Yorkshire Life

of beers. It a great place to relax and sample
diferent brews. For a culinary treat, Thai
Chokdee is Boston Spa’s premier Thai
restaurant, beloved for its takeaways.
Harts Café is a popular spot for brunch
and cofee, renowned for its salad bar and
welcoming atmosphere. The Cozy Tearooms
ofer handmade cakes in a quirky, pretty
setting, making it a nice treat for little girls
and adults alike, and Tom Foolery is great for
cofee catch-ups and good pizza.
simplycaroline.co.uk

FURTHER AFIELD
It’s a delightful spot to pick up a bouquet or
simply enjoy the beautiful displays.
The village also features several
outstanding charity shops. Martin House
Hospice Shop and St Gemma’s Hospice
shop are both excellent for inding hidden
treasures, from vintage clothing to unique
homeware items.
Beer aicionados should head to Salt, a
fantastic venue ofering a diverse selection

Stockeld Park ofers an array of seasonal
activities, from enchanted forests to
ice skating and now the Playhive and
indoor play area.
Harewood House, with its stunning
gardens, park and historic house tours,
promises a day of exploration and fun.
There are many properties to stay at in
Boston Spa, listed on Airbnb, from pretty
chocoate-box cottages to the airy Art Studio.

August 2024

101

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August 2024

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View towards Lund’s Tower

WALK:

An Earl Crag
micro-expedition

Channel your inner mountaineer to scale a crag
near Skipton crowned by two curious monuments
WORDS & PHOTOS:

104

August 2024

Paul Kirkwood

Yorkshire Life

WALK

below far left:

Lund’s Tower
looking towards
Wainman’s Pinnacale
below left:

The meadow leading
back to the Dog & Gun

THE WALK

Turn left out of the Dog & Gun and
up the road, then turn left down a
gravel lane. Pass High Malsis Farm
house and a terrace of cottages and, in front
of garages, turn left and over a stile. At
Bent Farm turn immediately right up a
tarmac track, which becomes a grassy path
to the right of a stream, passing Low Jack
Field Farm.
At a row of cottages bear right along
a concrete track. At the road turn left
then soon right up a stepped path to
Lund’s Tower. Follow the broad grassy path
towards Wainmain’s Pinnacle.

Retrace your steps towards Lund’s
Tower and at a gate turn sharp left
along a path below the Pinnacle and
through a gap in the wall.

At the road turn sharp right then left
onto a footpath. Don’t enter the trees
between the parallel walls but walk with
the walls to your right. At a junction with a
track turn right and through a metal gate. Pass
Summerseat Farm house and barn and over
a stile then cross the ield towards a wooden
ieldgate. Pass through the gate and bear left
to join the track leading away from Crag End.
Just before old stone gateposts turn
right, keeping a wall on your left. Pass
over two step stiles and cross the next
ield diagonally. Pass over a new steep step
stile and continue with the wall on your left
to and through a ieldgate bearing a sheet of
corrugated steel with an arrow sprayed onto
it. Pass through it onto a stony track which
bears left then right to High Malsis Farm.
Retrace your steps.

COMPASS POINTS
START/FINISH:
Glusburn Green, BD20 8DS

GRID REF:
SD 993444
TIME/DISTANCE:
6.4km/3 hours
ACCESSIBILITY:
The route is easy to follow but
includes a modest ascent and
descent. Children may enjoy a
scamper around the rocks

5
2
4
3

MAPS:
OS Landranger 104 Leeds
& Bradford. OS Explorer
21 South Pennines
PARKING: At the Dog & Gun if
you’re a customer. Alternatively,
with consideration, on Old
Hall Road, just to the east of
the pub, off the A6068
MAP LINK: bit.ly/TwoFollies

Yorkshire Life

August 2024

105

WALK

COMPASS POINTS
POIN T OF IN T ER EST

A pair of follies
These will catch your eye as soon as you
arrive for this walk, luring you like a shapely
mountain peak. Often compared to salt and
pepper pots, the follies are perched on Earl
Crag. The tower and obelisk hide their history
from the casual visitor and both aford ine
views over the Aire valley.
Also known as Ethel’s Tower, Lund’s Tower
was built as an eye-catcher by industrialist
James Lund of Malsis Hall across the valley
from Earl Crag to celebrate either Queen
Victoria’s golden jubilee in 1897 or his daughter
Ethel’s 21st birthday the preceding year. The
door is not blocked and you can ascend the
gloomy spiral staircase to the small viewing
platform at the top. Be the king of the castle!
With no inscription, and dating back to
1816, Wainman’s Pinnacle, also an eye-catcher,
was built by a member of the Wainman family
of nearby Carr Head Hall. Although it is
often said to date back to the Civil War, the
most likely explanation is that it was built
by William Wainman to commemorate the
battle of Waterloo in 1815. Wainman’s son had
served in the campaign against the French so
the monument would also have celebrated
his safe return home. The obelisk has been
damaged several times by lightning. It was
rebuilt at the turn of the 19th century and
repaired again in 1953 by Harry Bannister,
the then owner of Carr Head.
The Dog & Gun makes the perfect base camp
for your expedition.

E AT H ER E

DOG & GUN, Glusburn
Large pub and restaurant with tables outside
and ine views. Cosy in the winter, airy in
the summer. Food served all day every day.

BURNEYS CAFÉ, Crosshills
Serves sandwiches and wraps, jacket
potatoes, omelettes, paninis and toasties.
Home-made cakes and lapjacks. Open Tues
to Fri 9am to 2pm and Sat 9am to noon.

GET RAMBLING: Get rambling: Paul Kirkwood, 60, has been walking
and exploring every corner of Yorkshire since he relocated here in 1994.
He says: ‘Yorkshire boasts the inest walking routes of any county in
the UK because of the extent and rich variety of its countryside. In my
Yorkshire Life features I cover off some of the classic routes, but also
try to introduce readers to corners that they might not be aware of. The
opportunities for trying something new where we live are endless.’

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August 2024

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August 2024

107

Yorkshire is home
to 16 per cent of the
British breeding barn
owl population

PHOTO:DOUGSWINSON

Yorkshire,
home of the wild
The irst ever State of Yorkshire’s Nature report reveals
what we can do to help the county’s wildlife lourish
WORDS:

e all know Yorkshire is a
very special county – from
our rolling hills and dales to our
white chalk coast, our thriving
and diverse urban centres, our famous cheese
and Yorkshire puddings, love of tea, and our
strong regional pride.
Although sometimes overlooked, our
wildlife is something many of us have always
been proud of – and now the science conirms
just how important Yorkshire is. The irst
ever State of Yorkshire’s Nature report,
compiled by leading conservation charity

W
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August 2024

Amy Cooper

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust using data from
several conservation organisations, has done
a deep-dive into how our birds, mammals,
plants and moths are faring across our great
and green county – and what we can do to
make Yorkshire’s wildlife lourish.
The headlines show that Yorkshire is an
important home for British wildlife. Twothirds of all British species are found in
Yorkshire – that’s between 40,000 and
50,000 diferent species. Some plant species
– thistle broomrape and Yorkshire sandwort
– are so rare that they are only found in

Yorkshire, and we also have England’s only
population of dark bordered beauty moths.
There are declines happening, as
environmentalists have increasingly been
warning us. The report estimates that
nearly 2,000 species may have disappeared
from Yorkshire over the last 200 years –
one in 20 of Yorkshire’s larger moths and
plants – and a further 3,000 are at risk
of extinction. Over 300 species of birds,
plants and moths are ‘Yorkshire Species
of Concern’: species which are nationally
threatened, rare and declining in Yorkshire,

Yorkshire Life

PHOTO:ROBERTGOODISON

and/or have a large part of their range or
population in Yorkshire.
Yorkshire has some amazing wildlife – in
many cases it is rare and declining, and
often supporting nationally significant
populations – but we are losing this
unique wildlife in favour of more common
species. In time, there is the danger that
Yorkshire’s biodiversity could become just
like everywhere else.

BUILDING A GREENER
YORKSHIRE
Over the next year, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust
will be producing a region-wide plan for
nature recovery which will look at setting
out a way forward for our habitats, wildlife
– and for us. The State of Yorkshire’s Nature
report will also be used in the development
of Local Nature Recovery Strategies, and
to map a future for Yorkshire’s wildlife in
policies and decision making.

PHOTO:KEVINWALKER

PHOTO:STEFAN JOHANSSEN

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE
There is hope. The report highlights the
importance of maintaining a broad range
of habitats to sustain the full range of
Yorkshire’s species, and identiies three
key habitats where conservation and
restoration eforts will bring important
biodiversity and environmental beneits.
Limestone habitats are especially rich
in Yorkshire. Almost half of the plants of
conservation concern grow on limestone
or chalk soils, and more than half of the
UK’s limestone pavement and upland
limestone grassland is found here, as
well as the UK’s most northerly chalk
streams – of which there are less than
200 worldwide.
Wet habitats – Yorkshire has seen
signiicant wetland loss through drainage
and river canalisation, and less than
20 per cent of rivers in Yorkshire are in a
healthy state. Almost half of the plants that
have disappeared from Yorkshire grew in
wet habitats and some of our most obvious
conservation successes are where they
have been restored. Bringing water back
onto the land will have substantial
biodiversity beneits.
Marine habitats – the chalk clifs on
the Flamborough and Filey coast support
the largest mainland breeding seabird
colony in the country, and the Humber
Estuary is an internationally important stopof for waders, wetland birds and migratory
species. The reef habitats at Flamborough
are the most diverse in the UK, and the kelp
beds there are part of a larger area which
soaks up over 1,300 tonnes of carbon a year.

Swifts have declined by 50 per
cent in Yorkshire since 1995

- Local people to hold their local councils, MPs
and councillors accountable to any green
pledges they made during the run-up to the
general election, and to creating more, bigger,
better and joined up green space for all.
- Communities to join together to create more
green space for their local nature – in their
back gardens, in community spaces, on
verges and in public parks. Joining Yorkshire
Wildlife Trust’s #TeamWilder initiative is a
great place to start!
-Support for the Trust via a donation
or becoming a member. Our 45,000
members help our region’s wildlife
thrive – and the impact their support makes
has never been clearer.
ywt.org.uk

YWT NEEDS...
- Councils, landowners and managers, and
organisations with a role in caring for our
landscape, to use this report and work
together to protect a higher percentage of
Yorkshire’s landscape for nature.

Yorkshire Life

Yorkshire sandwort and lady’s slipper orchids are so rare
that they are only naturally found in Yorkshire

READ THE REPORT
The State of Yorkshire’s Nature report
was created in collaboration with and
using data collected from Yorkshire
Wildlife Trust, the British Trust for
Ornithology (BTO), the Botanical
Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI),
Butterly Conservation (BC) and the
Yorkshire Naturalists’ Union (YNU) to
provide a benchmark for the status
of Yorkshire’s wildlife. The report
was also made possible thanks to a
generous donation from the Joyce
Mary Mountain Will
2024
Trust. Data is also
available in technical
reports published
by the Yorkshire
Naturalists Union.
State of
ywt.org.uk/
Yorkshire’s Nature
StateofNature
What we know about nature and wildlife in Yorkshire

August 2024

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August 2024

113

The

R
U
F
F
guide
Oakley

These poochy
pals all take part
in the social dog
walks organised
by Yorkshire
Dog Socials

S P R O C K E R S PA N I E L
BY:

Oakley is a sensitive soul with a mischievous side. He likes
to think of himself as a ladies’ man and is the ultimate sock
thief! He has boundless energy but makes every walk slower
by greeting every human or dog he comes across by rolling
over. His happy place is running through the woods,
but he also loves to snuggle up in the evenings.

114

Beth Windsor

Yorkshire Life

IT'S A DOG'S LIFE

Thalia, Hatchi & Kaidley
COL L IE, R ESCU E & COL L IE
These three pals love nothing more than being spoilt by their humans and going on adventures together. Hatchi and Kaidley go
absolutely mad for their balls, so much so their humans can’t go anywhere without them. Thalia is the newest addition to the
family at only a few months old. She was unwanted after only a week, so was ofered to the family and its in perfectly.

River & Ralph

Aria

Douglas & Dolly

C O C K E R S PA N I E L
& COCKERPOO

DOBER M A NN

BOR DOODL E &
L A BR A DOODL E

These cheeky pups are described by
their humans as loving, fun and loyal.
Their humans says that River (left)
and Ralph (right) are the greatest best
friends a human could have. Their
favourite thing to do is adventure
far and wide across Yorkshire with
Yorkshire Dog Socials – a sociable
dog-walking group their mum runs.

Yorkshire Life

Aria is a one-year-old chocolate
and tan Dobermann who is
described by her human as ‘the most
beautiful, gentle giant’. She loves
playing with every breed of dog
and going out for woodland walks,
especially if there’s a stream or rivers.
Aria certainly lives up to the name
‘velcro dog’ and will rarely leave her
mum’s side.

These two are the ‘pawfect’ double act,
always up to something mischievous
together. Two-year-old Douglas (left)
is a border collie and poodle cross who
loves nothing more than tennis balls
and doing agility, while six-monthold miniature poodle and labrador
cross Dolly’s (right) true love in life
is her food.

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HOME & PROPERTY
Dream homes to buy and interiors to inspire
PASSION PROJECT

WANT TO BUY A CASTLE?

BEDROOM BLISS

Corrie’s Antony Cotton has created a wow
home in a former church in Scarborough

Ripley Castle Estate is set to come
on the market this autumn

Ideas to help you get the perfect
night’s sleep in a beautiful room

PHOTO:CARTERJONAS

SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE VIEW
It’s certainly a case of making the
most of the outdoors at Aspen House,
a stunning property just half a mile
from Bingley with an elevated position
which ensures panoramic views across
the valley to the west.
It’s a place you need never leave, with a
stunning garden room, putting green and,
indoors, a cinema room.
The ex ten sive enclosed a nd
completely private landscaped gardens

Yorkshire Life

extend to over half an acre. Laid
mainly to lawn they feature an extensive
paved terrace/entertaining area; a
superb bespoke studio/office/gym
annexe with glazed fully opening
bifold doors overlooking the garden,
a lovely covered loggia area and a log
store/workshop.
At a lower level of the garden
is a firepit, barbecue area and golf
putting green.

The grounds beneit from the mature
woodland backdrop, an area of which is
owned by the property.
Aspen House is situated on the northern
fringe of Bingley, within easy commuting
distance of Leeds, Bradford and Ilkley, and
is on the market at a guide price of £1.25m.
For more information or to
arrange a viewing, contact
the Harrogate oice of
Carter Jonas on 01423 393318

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THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

left:

Antony Cotton and
partner Peter Eccleston
in Church House,
Scarborough
below:

Hansom the handsome
hound – Peter and
Antony’s pet dog

Inside Antony Cotton’s

HEAVENLY
RENOVATION
Coronation Street favourite Antony Cotton has crossed the
Pennines for an interiors passion project in Scarborough that
has created a wow-factor home within a former church
WORDS:

Kathryn Armstrong PHOTOS: Daniel Eland

here’s a quiet nod to Antony Cotton’s life as a
resident of Coronation Street in one of the
bedrooms of the three-storey home he has
renovated in the heart of Scarborough’s Old Town.
It is nothing to do with architectural styles – the former
church is a long way from Weatherield’s terraces. No,
it comes in the shape of wallpaper. A William Morris
design irst made in 1917 then revived by Sanderson.
A recognisable design in many an ’80s home, and also
in the aspirational Ken Barlow’s terrace in ‘the Street’ –
where it’s there for all to see on screen, even today.
For Antony it is a happy coincidence rather than a
homage to ‘The Street’ that has been his workplace since
2003, starring as Sean Tully in the soap.
On the days when he’s not ilming for television, Antony
keeps himself busy in two ways. He’s heavily involved
with armed forces charities and was appointed an MBE
in the 2022 Birthday Honours for services to the British
Army, personnel and veterans.
He became involved through friends who had served
in Afghanistan and struggled after leaving the services.
His advisory and campaigning work continues on a
voluntary basis as a patron of military charities Help for
Heroes and the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families
Association (SSAFA), and Antony is a regular visitor to
the Catterick base in North Yorkshire.
His other passion is property, interiors and renovation,
particularly the renovation of his latest project, >

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The striking living room is what
Antony calls ‘modern Victorian’ and
features furniture he has renovated
himself as well as the iconic
William Morris print wallpaper
One of the luxurious
bathrooms

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Dark panelling and
pops of colour in
soft furnishings
in this bedroom

Yorkshire Life

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE

Church House in Scarborough’s Old Town, which he
has completed as an Airbnb property with partner Peter
Eccleston – Hansom their miniature schnauzer making
up the family.
It is a town he loves. ‘Scarborough is unique – it is not
sprawling, it is quite self-contained, it’s cute,’ he says.
‘I do honestly believe that the drive into Scarborough as
you come in from the big bridge with the sea on your right
at night – I don’t think there’s a better view than that. It
still takes my breath away when I see it.
‘Scarborough is a very honest seaside town and is
getting the love it deserves. I probably go over at least
once a month, sometimes more than that – I spend a lot
of time at Catterick with the Army and often come over
after. I love it out of season when it is quiet, and we are
in the Old Town which has its own separate vibe.

every bit of furniture. It has had love poured into it and
I am very proud of it. It has been a true labour of love.’
About three years ago, Antony began thinking of how
he wanted the place to look, starting out with thoughts
of a contemporary space.
There are modern touches like luxurious linen and
bathrooms. In the kitchen area there is open shelving
with glassware and pots that Antony has collected.
The kitchen was made in Yorkshire by Kitchen
Warehouse in Ripon. It is solid wood and painted
in a shade called Obsidian Green by Little Greene
Paint Company.
In the open-plan kitchen/living space a chandelier
came from a house clearance in Liverpool.
Antony has been all over the country collecting pieces
for the house.

‘MODERN VICTORIAN I like to call it –
very comfortable; all pieces of furniture are
authentic, there’s nothing that is new’
‘There are so many listed buildings – it is a very
historic place and even out of season it does not feel
like a ghost town.’
The entire former St Sepulchre’s presbyterian
church was bought by property developer pals of
Antony’s and they created a number of apartments
within in the building.
Antony and Peter took on the front of the building to
create a three-storey property with a ground-loor kitchen
and living room, two irst-loor bedrooms and an attic
bedroom as well as three bathrooms.
‘It is super luxurious,’ says Antony. ‘Modern Victorian
I like to call it – very comfortable; all pieces of furniture
are authentic, there’s nothing that is new, not a single
piece of lat-pack furniture in there – it is all Victorian
or Edwardian.’
Antony has renovated every picture frame by hand – his
own home became something of an artisanal workshop,
and he’s scoured lea markets, antique centres and
auctions across the country to ind pieces that it the
period and style to suit Church House.
‘I did it all in my lounge in the house where I live,’ he says.
‘It was like a workshop for two years – it drove everyone
mad while I did it, but it has been worth it. I renovated

‘If I knew I was going to be in London for work
I would go and pick things up. I have done it with
a green footprint – I wanted it to be sustainable
as far as possible.
‘We live in disposable times, and I have found the pieces
that were made well and have lasted.’
The main living area is decorated with calming green
colours – with Sanderson print wallpaper in soft sage
shades. For his sofas, Antony found fabric trims from old
mills. The fabrics and wallpapers throughout the property
are William Morris and Sanderson prints complemented
with heritage paint colours.
The yellow wallpaper in a bedroom with feature church
windows is William Morris Windrush – this is the one on
the Coronation Street set in Ken Barlow’s house.
‘It is a homage of sorts,’ laughs Antony. ‘I couldn’t ind
the fabric but tracked down a woman who had a roll of
it. It was printed in 1984 and she had had it all that time.’
Another bedroom blends contemporary and
heritage with dark panelling and a vibrant Sanderson
print wallpaper – bold orange cushions bringing
the look together.
All the rooms have high ceilings and dramatic windows
relecting the architecture of the Victorian church. >

WHEN IN
SCARBOROUGH
‘We like to go to Geos on the
front, The Anchor for ish and
chips and like the look of the
new Catch 55 restaurant.’
‘The Old Town is a lovely place to
wander near the castle, through
the cemetery and walking up
near the old hotels. Great views
– and the parks are all fabulous.’
Church House, Scarborough,
£273 per night, sleeps six.
airbnb.co.uk

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LA LABEL (RIGHT)

Open shelving in the
kitchen shows off
some of Antony’s inds

‘I couldn’t ind the fabric but tracked down a
woman who had a roll of it. It was printed in
1984 and she had HAD IT ALL THAT TIME’
Bedrooms are full of contrasting colours and textures
with throws and cushions – and unique prints and art.
Room-darkening blinds keep things cosy.
Antony has sought some genuine antiques that
give a nod to Scarborough’s heritage and create a sense
of place in Church House. Among them, some ishing
reels and a pair of oars. There are also original prints
and sketches of the seaside town from its heyday as a
fashionable resort.
Elsewhere, there are church chairs in the kitchen with
their bible holders and a hymn board, giving a nod to the
heritage of the building.
There are sweet touches throughout, such as the
engraved Church House water glasses in the bathrooms.
‘These were made by a veteran who has a business
called The Highland Engraver – it is nice to be able to
give business to people like that.
‘The bathrooms were from the Cast Iron Bath Company
in Scarborough – couldn’t recommend them highly
enough. Yes, we have done pretty much the whole thing
with Yorkshire suppliers.’
A striped carpet in the hallway is one of the few modern
touches. ‘I took a punt on that and hoped it would look right,’
says Antony. ‘It looks great. I had rugs made to match.’
Whatever he does – be it with his Army charity work,
his acting, or with his renovation project – Antony
commits hard and is perfectionist.
‘Whatever you do, I believe you should do it with all of
your heart and with all of your soul.
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‘That is how I approach my work with the armed forces
and that is how I approached doing this house. I spent
far too much money on it, but it is beautiful, and I want
people to go and have a beautiful time there and love it
like we do.
‘I want people to say that’s the nicest Airbnb
in Scarborough.’

The William Morris Windrush wallpaper in Ken Barlow’s
Coronation Street home that is replicated in the bedroom in
Antony’s Scarborough renovation. Above left photo: Danielle Baguley/ITV pictures

Yorkshire Life

When home is a
history lesson
Here’s a home that is steeped in history
and packed with character at every turn

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GRANGE HALL COTTAGE, Kildwick
What: Set in North Yorkshire’s
countryside, Grange Hall
Cottage ofers a tranquil haven
amidst rolling hills – perfect
for dog-walking, cycling, and
outdoor adventures. Situated
near Kildwick, known for its
charming pub, ‘outstanding’
primary school, and St Andrew’s
Church, this Grade II-listed
property is ideal for a serene
lifestyle.
Inside: The electric gates
open to a sweeping driveway.
The cottage is a meticulously
renovated architectural gem
with private access and a
spacious garden. Enter through
the original front door into the
Great Room, which showcases
historic details. The modern,
marble-topped kitchen is illed

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with light and features a pantry
that was once a buttery.
The living quarters, with
low doorways and thick walls,
include a dining room adorned
with restored oak panelling,
beams and balustrades. The
bedrooms feature historic
details like geometric strapwork
on the ceiling and a vine-clad
frieze from the 17th century.
The master bedroom boasts
a private stone balcony with
views of the Aire Valley and a
17th-century four-poster bed.
The cottage blends history
with modern comforts.
Price: OIRO £795,000
Contact: Leightons Estate
Agency, 01535 666031, info@
leightonsestateagency.co.uk

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PROPERTY

Perfect period pieces
Two stunning character homes in dreamy
sought-after Yorkshire locations

HIGH HALL, Appletreewick, near Skipton
PHOTO:DACRES

What: An enchanting and historic
Grade II home, enjoying a beautiful
setting in the heart of Wharfedale,
providing characterful family living
of generous proportions.
Inside: Planned over four loors,
High Hall ofers very practical
living, with three well-proportioned
reception rooms, a lovely breakfast
kitchen, seven bedrooms
and bathrooms.
Outside: Overlooking delightful
landscaped gardens with an extensive
range of outbuildings and garaging.
Ofering 0.76 of an acre, with additional
grazing land of 3.6 acres, available by
separate negotiation.
Price: £2,295,000
Contact: Dacre Son and Hartley
Estate Agents Ilkley, 01943 600655.
dacres.co.uk

MILL HOUSE, Dunford Road, Holmirth, West Yorkshire
Inside: A beautiful double-fronted
family home in a fabulous elevated
position with impressive gardens,
pleasant views across the valley and
contemporary features that blend
with the property’s period features
and character charm.
Outside: The Mill House is
nestled in a tree-lined setting
in the heart of the sought-after
village of Holmirth, in a
catchment for well-regarded
schooling. It’s a short walk
to the village centre and
conveniently positioned
for access to commuter links.

PHOTO:SIMONBLYTH

Price: Ofers around £600,000
Contact: Georgina Sutton,
Simon Blyth Estate Agents,
01484 689 689,
georgina.sutton@simonblyth.co.uk

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PROPERTY

Move in - and live in luxury
Looking for a shiny new home? Here’s two to choose from in lovely locations
23 HILLSIDE VIEW, Menston, Ilkley
PHOTO:DALEEDDISON

What: The Grassington is an elegant
four-bedroom detached home.
Inside: Open-plan kitchen, dining and
family area with adjacent utility room,
a separate living room, a study and
cloakroom to the ground loor. Upstairs,
bedroom one boasts an en-suite shower
room, while the remaining bedrooms
share the family bathroom.
Outside: To the front of the property
there is a well maintained lawned garden
to each side of the lagged footpath with
access around to both sides of the property
leading to the private rear gardens with
paved seating areas; ideal for outdoor
gatherings and relaxation. To the side
of the property is driveway parking for
multiple vehicles and access into the
single garage.
Price: £635,000
Contact: Dale Eddison, Otley, 01943
465465, otley@daleeddison.co.uk

GREEN BANK GLUSBURN, Keighley
What: A new-build detached family
residence of the highest quality
with beautifully appointed fourbedroom accommodation.
Inside: The hall opens into an open-plan
L-shaped kitchen, dining and living space
with garden room extension. This fabulous
room is looded with natural light from the
twin aspect fully glazed bifolding doors
and the roof light in the garden room.

PHOTO:JONATHANBEATTIE

Outside: The property is approached
from the private road onto a block-paved
driveway and electric garage with an EV
charging point, battery connected to the
solar panels and under loor heating. A
fabulous garden has a lagged seating area
in front of the sun room and a lawn and
planting area enjoying far-reaching views
over the village to open countryside.
Price: £795,000
Contact: 01756 795621, david-hill.co.uk

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INTERIORS

Such stuf as

DREAMS
are made on

Creating the perfect environment in which to
sleep your best sleep is within your control
COMPILED BY:

Yorkshire Life

Kate Houghton

REST YOUR WEARY HEAD

SPECIAL GUEST

For a good night’s sleep you need a good pillow,
so if yours is, ahem, just a few years past its best,
it’s time to invest. Natural latex has an opencell structure, providing superior airlow and
breathability, helping the sleeper keep cool in
summer and warm in winter.
Natural latex foam pillow, £99,
inebedding.co.uk

These days, no spare room sits empty for
months at a time, so creating a beautiful
space in which you also work, or read, or sew,
or whatever, simply makes sense. Curate an
elegant space all for you – and to occasionally
show of to special guests.
Alexandra bed linen, white, from £88,
rebeccaudall.com

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133

Fit for a queen
Fitted bedroom furniture
is not only jolly useful for
hiding away your extensive
wardrobe, but when done in
a holistic fashion – as here
with matching wardrobes,
headboard and window
seat – brings a bedroom
scheme together with ease.
Second Nature Chapter
Bedroom in hartforth blue,
£3,000, sncollection.co.uk

SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED
Space for a lamp, a clock and to place your book,
and a drawer for the obligatory bedroom clutter.
Your bedside table is more than just a handy
receptacle, however, it’s a major element in your
overall design scheme, so choose carefully.
Flute marble bedside drawer, £299,
atkinandthyme.co.uk

READY FOR YOUR CLOSE-UP?
Every gorgeous woman needs somewhere
to gild the lily, so ditch the desk and invest
in a dressing table that makes you feel the
million-dollar woman you are.
Large mirrored dressing table, mirror and
stool set, £479.95, melodymaison.co.uk
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August 2024

BEDTIME STORY
A good book to fall asleep to is a necessity, which means the correct light is also
a must-have. Tall enough to shed light on your pages, whether you sit or recline
to read, yet delicate enough to be absolutely deinitely bedroom-appropriate.
Hatton four table light by Original BTC, £799, amoslighting.co.uk

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Welcome home

Struggling to find your dream home?
End your search by beginning ours…
Garrington Property Finders are leading experts in
Yorkshire and often have access to properties that will
never be visible on the open market. If you are looking
for help, trust us, we know where to look.

GARRINGTONNORTHEAST.CO.UK

PROMOTION

THE BUYER’S AGENT
Julian Rich from Garrington Property Finders discusses some of the
matters people should consider when buying an additional property

here are a variety of driving factors
that lead to the purchase of an
additional property. It might be
as a retreat to relax and reset, but
it is also often the case that the purchase
is strategic, whether it be as a pied-à-terre
for work purposes, or a forward-thinking
investment for children. I have assisted many
clients searching for all types of homes from
home. Here are the considerations to focus
on when looking for an additional property:

LOCATION IS KEY
Be clear on how far you are willing to travel
to regularly visit the property because
if it is too long the appeal of visiting will
quickly diminish. Also, are there shops, a
pub, restaurant and recreational facilities
within easy reach? Are you happy to drive to
these or would you prefer to abandon the car
during your stay? How near are neighbours
and are you used to living in this proximity?
If you’re planning to work from this property,
is the internet bandwidth adequate?

LOCK UP AND LEAVE
A second property may not be inhabited
continually throughout the year, so consider
matters such as security and maintenance.
A low-maintenance garden is a wise choice.
Purchase a specialist insurance policy
which recognises the property will be left
empty more than a standard home and
accommodates your requirements if the
property is to be let.

Pretty Runswick Bay cottages. A sought-after location for a coastal bolthole, says Julian

Home from home

PHOTO:HANNAHSTOCKDALE

COASTAL RETREATS

Yorkshire’s coastline ofers the perfect getaway
to relax and unwind. Runswick Bay with its
sandy beach and stunning clifs is a pictureperfect village where you can enjoy homecooked local specialties at The Royal Hotel
and sweeping views of the bay from its beer
garden. The seaside town of Saltburn-by-theSea is a great location for families. Its stretch
of golden beach, colourful beach huts and pier
provide the perfect setting for days out and
the high street is home to independent shops
and places to dine. The town is served by a
railway station linking to the national network.
A few miles north of Whitby, Sandsend ofers
a high-end experience. The Hart Inn pub
and restaurant on the seafront provides a
welcoming atmosphere whilst the promenade
and pebbly beach draw beachcombers scouring
for fossils and Whitby jet.

COUNTRY BOLTHOLES
In the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors,
the village of Goathland with its picturesque

Yorkshire Life

cottages and leafy streets lined with stone
walls take you back in time. It is famed for
being the ictional village of Aidensield in
Heartbeat. The village beneits from a range
of independent shops and eateries and is
home to the North Yorkshire Moors steam
railway station. The Yorkshire Dales village of
Grassington also boasts TV fame as the setting
for All Creatures Great and Small. Located
in Upper Wharfedale, this village, with its
cobbled streets and stone cottages, is an idyllic
location with an array of shops and amenities.

URBAN PAD
The medieval walled city of York is packed
with culture and stunning architecture.
Overlooked by the impressive York Minster,
quaint cobbled lanes and trails along the
River Ouse beckon. You can enjoy ine dining
at every turn. National rail links provide
convenient travel to wider Yorkshire and
beyond. The historic market town of Malton is
often referred to as ‘Yorkshire’s Food Capital’.

It boasts a variety of food festivals, artisan
producers, and award-winning eateries.
The town’s picturesque setting along the
River Derwent and its proximity to the
North Yorkshire Moors National Park and
accessibility to the East Yorkshire coast make
it a desirable destination for nature lovers
and history enthusiasts alike.

WHAT IS A GOOD BUY?
If you’re looking to buy an additional property
it is possible that you’re not fully ‘in the know’
with the local market, and it’s even more
unlikely that you’ll be easily able to attend a
viewing at a moment’s notice. A local property
inder will advise a property buyer on suitable
areas, help them weigh up their priorities and
match these with potential homes, being fully
immersed in the local market on your behalf
to unearth the ideal property.
Garrington ofer a commitmentfree meeting. Contact Julian
on 01423 206055

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LIVE IN A CASTLE

Stunning historic estate
on the market
One of North Yorkshire’s most visited country
estates will go on the market later this year

orth Yorkshire’s Ripley Castle
Estate, held by the same family
for over seven centuries, is to go
on the market.
Current owners Sir Thomas and
Lady Ingilby have announced they are to sell
the estate, just north of Harrogate.
They describe the Grade I-listed 14th
century country house as ‘a much-loved
family home’, adding the planned sale is
‘with the support of their family’.
The Ingilbys live in an apartment and
value their privacy away from the public gaze.
These quarters are elegant and beautifully
furnished, indistinguishable from the rest.
The Countess of Wessex is one of the guests
who has stayed here. The guest bedroom is

‘Ripley Castle
has a history of
political, military,
religious and social
upheaval, plague
and persecution’
decorated with columns and plasterwork,
botanical prints, an ornate antique mirror
and chaise longue, among the antiques, and
Lady Ingilby explains this was an old nursery
room before it was restored.
Ripley Castle has been in the family
for 700 years – some 28 generations of
Ingibys have lived at the castle – and it
has a history of political, military,
religious and social upheaval, plague and
persecution. Sir Thomas Ingilby, who lived
from 1290 to 1352, married the heiress
Edeline Thwenge in 1308/9 and acquired

left: Lady Emma Ingilby at Ripley Castle
above: Elegant and beautifully furnished:

Sir Thomas and Lady Emma Ingilby in their
private quarters. Photos: Richard Doughty Photography

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the Ripley Castle estate with its medieval
manor house as her dowry.
His oldest son, also called Thomas
(1310–1369), saved the king from being
gored by a wild boar whilst on a hunting
expedition and was knighted in return with
the boar’s head symbol as his crest.
Henry Ingilby collected taxes for Edward
II, an earlier Sir William served the Tudor
sovereigns, and in 1605 nine of the 11
known conspirators of the Gunpowder Plot
were close relations or associates of the
Catholic Ingilbys.
In the 18th century a Sir John took
down the old castle apart from the Tudor
tower and gatehouse and his son created
the model estate village with its large
Hotel de Ville.
A statement issued by the estate
continues: ‘The family will continue to live
nearby and focus on their other interests.
Most of the estate’s enterprises will continue
to trade as normal and our valued clients,
employees and tenants will be advised at

the earliest opportunity of any changes
to this plan.’
The sale is being handled by Mark Granger
of Carter Jonas in Harrogate, to whom
enquiries must be directed.
Mark said: ‘It is unlikely that marketing
of the Ripley Castle Estate will start before
October. Until just before then there won’t be
any information available on lotting or pricing.’
Ripley Castle and Estate is noted for its
large grounds, lakes, deer park, walled
gardens, hothouses and kitchen garden. The
estate village is one of Yorkshire’s prettiest
and a magnet for visitors with its gourmet
shops, gallery and popular pub, The Boar’s
Head. The Knight’s Chamber is one of the
rooms that is part of a public tour of the
castle with wood-panelled walls.
The estate is a wedding venue and every
year hosts Ripley Show, this year on August 11,
as well as regular food festivals and markets.
The sale is expected to include the pub,
hotel and restaurant, The Boar’s Head, plus
several houses in the village.

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IN THE GARDEN
Advice and inspiration with Nige Eaton, horticulture expert at Moss & Moor, Ilkley

AUGUST REFLECTIONS

ugust has always been a month for
a bit of relection. All the planning,
planting and earlier preparations
should now be paying of. Borders
and containers will be brimming with tall
herbaceous plants, bright coloured summer
bulbs, baskets frothing with hanging plants
and burgeoning fruit trees.
August is the pinnacle of summer growth
and it’s going to start to fade gradually over
the next few months, and a more sedate look
and feel will be taking over. It’s important
that we take this opportunity to breathe,
sit back and enjoy our labours before the
autumn jobs start. However, a weekly session
of feeding, dead-heading and tidying will
keep lowers and fruit coming.

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August 2024

I ind it very satisfying to wander my plot
on a warm evening and just remove the spent
lower heads. I’ve got a great Burgon & Ball
product called a hands-free Hip-Trug that
clips to my belt and allows me to dead-head
as I wander. I also use a watering lance with
a fertilizer dispenser to keep my plants at
peak performance. A weekly sweep around
with a stif brush prevents any pests that
might be hiding in the fallen leaves. This way
everything is kept in tip-top condition for as
long as possible.
It is also time to take cuttings of tender
plants that you want to overwinter, such as
fuchsias, salvias, pelargoniums, echeveria
and aeoniums. Use root trainers, which are
ingenious deep trays that allow the cuttings

to root over the winter. In the spring they
split down the sides for you to check the
progress of the roots and once they are
established, they can be individually
potted on. Take the cutting and allow
the cut end to dry of before inserting
in the compost. This will stop the fresh
stems rotting off in their young state.
A little planning now will pay dividends later.
Finally, remember that the light levels
drop, so install some solar lights strategically
around your plot to bathe your garden in
a welcoming glow on these warm, balmy
evenings. Uplighters under trees highlight
their forms, and walls bathed in warm colour
can make your garden look more intimate
and your space welcoming.

Yorkshire Life

G A R DEN TO V ISI T

SHEFFIELD
BOTANICAL GARDEN
The gardens at Sheield Botanical
Garden are a great inspirational
space for seeing late summer and
autumn planting schemes that you
can use at home. In August I make
my way to four speciic areas. In the
‘four seasons garden’ there is an
Autumn bed planted up with late
summer colour. In the Osborn’s ield
area, there is a South African garden
which features borderline hardy
perennials growing in a sunny site, in
gritty soil, to show the diverse variety
of late summer plants that can be
successfully grown in Yorkshire, if
you give them the right conditions.
The prairie garden is another
highlight, and the Pavilions are full
of exotic beauties looking their best.

QUESTION TIME
PL A N T OF T HE MON T H

DAHLIAS
Seen in the late 19th century as
too big and blousy, we have seen
dahlias resurge, especially when
used in prairie-type planting
schemes. Their pollen-rich saucersized lowers attract a huge range
of foraging insects and are great
for pollinating. Ones to look out for
are the Bishop’s series, which have
mahogany-coloured foliage and
lots of lowers through summer and
autumn. Bishop of York is a favourite
with dusky yellow lowers, Bishop
of Dover has pale cream lowers on
taller stems, and Bishop of Llandaf
has deep cherry red lowers. Also
available are the larger size
decorative varieties, such as crème
de cassis and café au lait.

Yorkshire Life

Every year I try and plant snowdrop
bulbs in October and very few come
up. What am I doing wrong?
This is a common problem for gardeners
planting bulbs. Some varieties just don’t like
being packaged for sale and dry out before
they are planted. One of these candidates is
the snowdrop family. Galanthus are dug up
in July and packaged for delivery in August.
Ideally this is when you should plant them.
Don’t wait until you plant the rest of your
bulbs. Plan the area you want them to come
up in the spring and just plant them around
the existing plants that are in full bloom. The
area then needs to be well watered to keep
the newly lifted bulbs plumped up and in the
best condition to start rooting down for an
early spring show. Other varieties that beneit
from early planting are scilla, aconites and
anemone blanda varieties. The aconite and
anemone beneit from being soaked overnight
to rehydrate the corms before you put them

in. You should then get a much better success
rate with your spring display.
After a visit to Harlow Carr and
seeing their long border display,
I would like to know what I can
use to give height and colour
this autumn in my garden
The long borders at Harlow Carr are a treat
at this time of the year. Plants to put in
your garden to give the same efect are the
Eupatorium family or Joe Pye Weed – North
American stately herbaceous plants with
clusters of deep pink lowers. Or Helianthus
maximiliani, a perennial sunlower with
lemon-coloured lowers that get covered
in hoverlies. Finally, to add foliage colour
and lower, Thalictrum Black Stocking and
Actaea Black Negligee add deep mahogany
foliage and the Actaea is scented and attracts
butterlies and moths. These varieties will
give height in pots.

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LIFE & SOUL
Take a breather with the good things in life
MODEL TO MEADOW

POWER OF PETS

BE BEACH READY

Rachel Scott went from Mayfair
model to Yorkshire candle maker

Dr Amir Khan on why our
pets are good for us

The holiday wardrobe
you’ll want to pack

THE ART OF JEWELLERY

PHOTO:BOODLES

The National Gallery is our nation’s treasure box: home
to one of the world’s greatest collections of art. Since
opening in 1824, it has inspired artists and creatives. In
honour of its 200th anniversary and being their oicial
partner, Boodles designers have taken inspiration from
paintings in the gallery to create this year’s High Jewellery
collection. Three collections take inspiration from artistic
techniques: Play of Light, Brush Strokes and Perspective.
A fourth, Motherhood, acknowledges a key theme of
the gallery. Pictured here is a platinum collar from the
‘Perspective’ collection relecting the work of Canaletto.
This collar mirrors his architectural style through the
use of Ashoka cut diamonds set in platinum. Enquire at
Boodles, Briggate, Victoria Quarter, Leeds. boodles.com

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WHOLESOME LIFE

FROM

MODEL
MEADOW
TO

Rachel Scott left behind her career as a model in Mayfair

to up sticks with her husband, Philip, and go back home to Yorkshire.
Now she spends her days candle making, surrounded by a gaggle
of geese, a pack of cockapoos, and a collection of beehives
WORDS:

Beth Windsor PHOTOS: Hannah Webster

any of us dream of retiring to the countryside
to tend to donkeys, collect fresh eggs and
possibly take up bee keeping, maybe even
start a small business too, but for one woman
based in Darley, North Yorkshire, this is her everyday
reality. Rachel Scott never imagined that a fun little hobby
would turn into a business so in demand that former
Spice Girl Mel B would be raving about her candles, but a
simple gift bought for her two daughters did exactly that.
‘Someone bought the girls a little candle-making kit
one year and I did it with them and thought it was quite
fun,’ she explains. ‘So, then I started making my own,
just as a hobby – I never planned for it to be a business!’
Starting out by gifting to friends and family,
Rachel soon realised she had a knack for creating
beautifully scented candles. Fast forward to more than
a year later and she now has a production line set up in
a spare room of her house and sends out hundreds of
orders each week. Every element, from the candle making

left: Fresh eggs and happy hens – Rachel

Scott is loving the country life. Photo: supplied

Yorkshire Life

down to packing the order, is done by Rachel herself,
even ensuring she uses only paper packaging and
eco-friendly tape, to keep in line with the nature-inspired
philosophy of the brand.
It’s this level of detail that’s made Meadowfarm
Lifestyle so successful. As a self-confessed perfectionist,
Rachel explains that ‘once I start something I become
quite obsessional, so if I’m doing something I need to do
it properly’. Cue candle-making courses and staying up
into the early hours as she consumed every book on the
subject that she could possibly get her hands on.
Some of you reading this may have done a course
yourself at some point, maybe as part of a hen do as I did
once. Therefore, you wouldn’t be mistaken for thinking
it’s quite a simple process – you just need to get the wax
to the correct temperature, put a wick in a glass jar, add
some smelly essential oils, let it set and hey presto, you
have a candle! The science behind it, however, is far more
complex, especially if you want to create something utterly
gorgeous that’s going to burn for hours and ill your home
with just the right amount of scent – not overpowering,
headache inducing, or so completely unnoticeable you’ll
wonder if you even lit it at all.
>
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WHOLESOME LIFE

It took months of experimenting with eyewatering
amounts of time and money spent on perfecting her
product. ‘I thought this is impossible as it’s a simple
process, but it’s not easy to get them right,’ Rachel
tells me, as she explains how important it is to get the
temperature of the wax and the material of the wick
correct as sometimes a particular fragrance might not
work with a certain wick. ‘I’m really fussy with what
I use – some are 100 per cent essential oils, some are
high-quality perfume oils, I always use soy wax which
is sustainable and ethical, and I use the best ingredients
possible – I’d rather make less proit, knowing I’ve put
quality into the candle, than scrimp on the ingredients.’

‘I’m really fussy with
what I use – some are
100 per cent essential
oils, some are highquality perfume oils’
I must admit that when I irst came across Rachel’s
brand, I thought it looked beautiful, but didn’t think
much beyond that. It wasn’t until I walked into her home
and my senses became enraptured by the stunning smells
surrounding me that I understood it all.
If you’re familiar with the feeling you get when you
walk into a perfectly scented shop or spa and the calm
it evokes, making you want to stay there all day, well
that was exactly how I felt here. ‘One of my goals was to
make sure that the scent throw was right – that I could
smell it, but it not be overpowering.’
If, like I was, you’re unfamiliar with the term
‘scent throw’, this refers to how faint or strong the
fragrance lows through the air, as well as how much
it permeates a space. Indeed, after a few hours sat
chatting to Rachel in her showroom-style kitchen,
I could still smell the scent of her Wildlowers candle
as strong as when I irst walked through the door. Yet
the sweet-smelling tones of wild lavender, honeysuckle

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above: Rachel does the whole candlemaking process from start to inish
right: Living a wholesome life in North Yorkshire. Photo: supplied
below left: Fresh eggs wanted by Weetons
below right: Taking courses on bee keeping,
Rachel wants to grow this side of the business

and sweet pea weren’t accompanied by a headache or
sickness that some candles can induce – a feeling Rachel
wanted to stay well clear of.
Inspired by her gorgeous surroundings in the North
Yorkshire village of Darley, Rachel ‘got the scents
fairly quickly’. There’s Citrus Mint which came from
her herb garden, Yorkshire Bramble was inspired by
the bramble bush that’s located in the ield where her
donkeys reside, the ig trees in her garden are to thank
for Warm Fig, while the wildlower patch nearby is the

Yorkshire Life

reason for Wildlowers, and her walks in the woodlands
with her collection of cockapoos is what brought about
Into the Woods. All of these scents are available as
candles or difusers, housed in glass vessels with timeless,
elegant designs.
If it all sounds rather dreamy, it is. This wholesome life
came about after Rachel left behind her career as a model
in Mayfair to up sticks with her husband, Philip, back to
her home county of Yorkshire to be close to friends and
family as they raised their two young daughters. More
land meant they could add to their family with a drove
of donkeys, a gaggle of geese, a pack of cockapoos, and
a collection of beehives. It seems others want a piece of
this idyllic lifestyle too, with an online following of 13k
and counting, Weetons Food Hall are after their gigantic
goose eggs, while Grantley Hall buy their in-demand
honey from the hives.
When Rachel irst started out, she went from her online
store with Etsy to being stocked in a small interiors shop
just outside of Wakeield before landing in the designer
store Morgan Clare in Harrogate. After receiving rave

Yorkshire Life

reviews from esteemed fragrance journalist Alice du Parcq
of her Warm Fig candle followed by a lovely voicemail
from former Spice Girl and fellow Leeds lass Mel B,
she’s now set her sights on Harvey Nichols and higher.
‘I’d love to open a farm shop and be a mini-Daylesford,’
Rachel enthuses as she speaks about the pioneering
vision from Carole Bamford, who set out to change the
way we eat and grow by being more in tune with the
seasons. For the time being, however, Rachel wants
to continue growing her brand and showing others
how eco-friendly and sustainable products can still be
luxurious. Handwashes and hand creams are currently
in development, but Rachel explains that ‘these are
really diicult to get completely right when they need
to be 100 per cent natural’. An active beekeeper, she’s
also looking to develop their honey ofering, as well as
adding in some chickens, ducks, and other animals to
their ever-growing brood.
We wouldn’t mind a slice of the Meadowfarm
life ourselves!
meadowfarmlifestyle.co.uk

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Manager of LK Bennett’s
Harrogate store, Gemma McNamara,
with Natalie Anderson at
The Ivy, York. Photo: Charlotte Gale

Ready for the
raceday fashion ix?
With the social season in full swing, and plenty of exciting
raceday events ahead, it’s all about dressing to impress
WORDS:

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Beth Windsor

Yorkshire Life

THE STYLE STAKES

here are plenty of opportunities to
bag yourself a best-dressed prize at
one of the many upcoming ladies’
days in Yorkshire. Racecourses
around the county will be transformed into
a runway of elegance with all eyes scanning
the sea of stunning outits.
But what to wear? Tailoring, florals,
classic or catwalk? One place with an eye
on style is Harvey Nichols, Leeds, where
you can book the occasion dressing service
if you’re facing a dilemma.
Head of womenswear Max Kendrew says:
‘A great dress is usually a go-to for event

‘A capsule wardrobe
ofers them
FLEXIBILITY and
options that can
work depending on
how they feel - and
also the weather’
dressing, however, this season there are also
lots of great separates, including tailored
trousers. Many of our clients have more than
one occasion, therefore, buying separates
or a small event dressing capsule wardrobe
ofers them lexibility and options that can
work depending on how they feel – and also
the weather.’
Book a complimentary appointment
by emailing personalshopping.leeds@
harveynichols.com
In York, Harrogate Spring Water held
an elegant afternoon in conjunction with
LK Bennett to show how mindful drinking
goes hand in hand with fabulous frocks this
event season. Held in The Etty Room of
The Ivy in York, guests were invited to sip
on mindful mocktails made using Harrogate
Spring Water and the inest non-alcoholic
ingredients. Before leading a Q&A, host

Natalie Anderson said she was ‘a huge
advocate for creating a space where everyone
can enjoy themselves, regardless of their
alcohol intake’.
Manager of LK Bennett’s Harrogate
store, Gemma McNamara, showcased the
range of pieces in the brand’s Royal Ascot
Collection. Perfect for any occasion, there’s
something for everyone, with a wonderful
array of accessories to complete a winning
outit. ‘We’ve added more block heels and
wedges, along with some amazing dressy
lats,’ explains Gemma, meaning there’ll
be no stranded stilettos getting stuck in the
grass this year.
There’s also a collection of hats and
headpieces to suit all face shapes and styles
featuring LK Bennett’s timeless look.
Florals are still big fashion news for summer
events. Gemma notes: ‘Floral is popular this
year, not just at Ascot, but at all occasions’ –
which is why so many pieces in the Royal
Ascot x LKB collection feature pretty loral
prints paired with ruled sleeves.
Shop the collection at lkbennett.com
or pop into their James Street store in
Harrogate. For more about Harrogate
Spring Water’s Mindful Drinking
campaign, visit harrogatespring.com

Looking the part –
one of the racegoers
at Thirsk Racecourse.
Photo: Hannah Ali

PLAN YOUR OUTFIT
Five-star hotel Grantley Hall will
be headline sponsor of the Ebor
Fashion Lawn, which will take
place across the four days of
The Sky Bet Ebor Festival August
21-24 at York Racecourse.
The Ebor Fashion Lawn is a
catwalk that’s open to all during
the races, offering the opportunity
for the most stylishly dressed
to show off their outits, whilst
a judging panel will then select
the best dressed each day of
the festival. Judges this year will
include resident milliner George

Yorkshire Life

Durdy, Melissa Barton (founder
of the luxury British occasion
wear brand 8th Sign) alongside
representatives from Grantley Hall.
The judges will decide the winners
for each of the ive categories:
Most Stylish, Most Stylish Couple,
Most Stylish Runner Up, Best Hat,
and Best Dressed Child.

Prizes include

Most Stylish – Midweek Dine &
Unwind Spa Experience for Two
at Three Graces Spa (worth £270)
Ladies Day – Midweek Overnight

Stay for Two in a Deluxe Room with
Afternoon Tea for Two (worth £710)

LADIES’ DAY DATES
August 14
Beverley Racecourse
August 21-24
Sky Bet Ebor Festival,
York Racecourse
September 7
BresBet, Thirsk Racecourse
September 12
St Leger Festival,
Doncaster Racecourse
goracing.co.uk

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FASHION

Holiday in

STYLE
From airport to beach, those who love to travel will
love these efortlessly chic wardrobe essentials
COMPILED BY:

Beth Windsor

8
9

5
10
6

Main image: Selene swimsuit, £150, naiabeach.com 1. Aurora rosy panther print maxi dress, £295, rebeccarhoades.com
2. Cannes bandeau swimsuit, £155, naiabeach.com 3. Pink open collar button polo, £310, connollyengland.com
4. Lennox sunglasses in chrome gold, £85, iolla.com 5. Loupe gold sandal, £120, dunelondon.com
6. Sartorial sunset titanium sunglasses, £607, shop.brunellocucinelli.com 7. Pink and blue ombre dress, £65, johnlewis.com
8. Paisley print swim shorts, £390, shop.brunellocucinelli.com 9. Straw trilby hat, £75, hackett.com
10. Red checked swimming trunks, £250, connollyengland.com 11. Padstow cream and red raia penny loafers, £695, manoloblahnik.com

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DR KHAN
AMIR

The TV doctor discusses the healing properties of our pets
few weeks ago, while on call at
the surgery, I was asked to do an
urgent house call on a lady who
lived in a nursing home. I packed
my doctor’s bag, told the receptionist I was
heading out and that they could get me on
my mobile if anything urgent came in, and
made my way over to the home. After I had
tended to my patient, I was making my way
out when I noted a bit of a commotion coming
from one the communal rooms the residents
usually watched television in.
Curious, I went to investigate. The other
nursing home residents were arranged in
a makeshift semicircle in the centre of the
room, and in the middle was a young lady
stood beside a pony.
Now, it is not every day you see a pony
inside a nursing home, so I stayed for a few
minutes to see what it was all about. I know
these residents, I often make visits to this
particular care home, many of them have
dementia or life-limiting conditions, and
it was immediately obvious that this little
pony was having a tremendously positive
impact on them. They were enthralled by it,
smiling, wanting to touch it, and some were
even talking to it in a way I hadn’t heard them
speak before. For many of them, it was better
than any medicine I could have given them.
I relected on this on my way back to the
surgery. There is a lot of evidence to support
the presence of animals in residential and
care homes, and perhaps in a time when
social care has been so stripped of resources,
having an animal around may bring many of
the residents comfort.
Of course, lots of them may have had pets
when they were in their own homes and miss
that sense of companionship, pleasure and
enrichment animals bring. Interacting with
animals ofers residents a way to maintain
a sense of self – something that can be lost
when you are cared for in a home.
And the healing efects of pets doesn’t
end in care homes. They are doing

left: Pets are good for us, in our own home or

as therapy animals for residents in a care home

right: Be like Amir and get a cat – it

could release those happy hormones

Yorkshire Life

magical work up and down the country.
Many of us own pets and know how
big a role they play in our lives. I have recently
become a parent to a cat, a Cat Daddy if you
will, and even though she does wake me up
at 4am each morning by pawing my face
wanting to be fed, I can’t imagine our family
without her.

When we are around the pets we love so
much, our brain starts making a hormone
called oxytocin – this has also been labelled
the ‘love hormone’. It connects and bonds
us to our pets so we feel they are part of
the family. The more oxytocin we produce,
the stronger that bond is but also the more
relaxed and content we feel. In moments

‘Now, it is not every day
you see a pony inside a
nursing home, so I stayed
for a few minutes to see
what it was all about’
My friends with dogs tell me (only
half-joking) they actually prefer their
dog to their children most of the time
and you only have to see how many of us
plan our weekends or trips away with
out pets in mind to see how much these
animals mean to us. And there is real science
behind it – pets heal us.

of anxiety, petting your dog or cat makes
you feel more relaxed because you are
getting that love hormone hit. Beyond that,
the sight, smell or touch of our pets release
positive brain chemicals like dopamine
and serotonin, which can lower our stress
levels and make us feel happier inside,
making us come back for more.
That may explain that feeling you have
when you are returning from work and really
looking forward to seeing your dog racing
towards you as you enter the front door – you
are getting a full hit of positive hormone and
neurochemicals and it is like a drug, only
the legal kind.
We often think about what we do for our
pets: feed them, clean up after them, take
them for a walk. But it’s good to be reminded
about what they do for us – not only do they
give us emotional support and have been
shown to help with mental health disorders,
they are used to help the visually impaired,
help us keep active and improve our heart
health, and they give us a sense of purpose.
So as a doctor, allergies aside, I would highly
recommend we all get a dose of pet therapy.

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HEALTH

MONICA PRICE
You may not win a gold medal this summer
but these healthy foods will help you stay in shape

ummer is upon us, and this is often
a time to think about your overall
health and energy levels. Now is
the season for delicious fruits, so
experiment and try adding some new foods
to your daily diet. With the summer Olympics
taking place in Paris this month, I thought
this would be a good time to share with you
four of my top foods that an athlete would
eat – and you can too – to put you on the path
to excellent health this summer.

QUINOA
This wonderful wholegrain has increased
in popularity over the years, and you can
ind it on its own or added to dishes on the
supermarket shelves. Because it has a high
ibre, high protein and low-fat content, this
is a irm favourite with athletes, but is an
excellent staple for you too. It has nearly
twice as much protein as other wholegrains
and contains all the nine essential amino
acids which make up a complete protein –
and that is great for your body to help build
muscle and recover from a long workout.
It is packed with niacin (B3), folate (B9),
phosphorus, magnesium, iron, copper and
manganese. And it is so versatile – you can eat
it for breakfast with cinnamon and honey, or
you can serve it with a savoury dish to replace
rice or pasta. It’s a very popular wholegrain
if you’re vegetarian or vegan, or have a
gluten intolerance.

BANANAS
The humble banana is often overlooked for its
nutritional beneits. This is a great snack for
you if you exercise, and can be eaten before,
during or after your workout. They are a irm
favourite with athletes as a recovery food
following a big event, because they are high
in potassium. Your body needs this to help
regulate luids, and prevent muscle cramps
and spasms. They also contain thiamine (B1),
pyridoxine (B6), manganese, vitamin C and
are rich in carbohydrates. Bananas are low in
calories and are a great low-sugar fruit with
natural electrolytes – so really good if you
don’t want to eat the bars or gels commonly
used during workouts.

BERRIES
A favourite of mine, and for many who work
out, as they are a powerful antioxidant packed
full of vitamin A and C. Antioxidants protect
against oxidative stress and free radicals
that form in the body during strenuous
physical activity, and an increased intake
of polyphenols will help to alleviate your
tiredness. Polyphenols are a group of
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The ‘gold’ menu
compounds found in plants that have antiinlammatory properties, which is important
following a workout as the body can become
inlamed. Choose blueberries, blackberries,
raspberries or strawberries, and add them
to a smoothie or eat them whole. Either way,
these little guys are a must for good health.

post-exercise, and reduced fatigue and
tension. Almonds are rich in protein, ibre,
vitamin E, magnesium and ribolavin (B2).
Almonds also have more unsaturated fats
than the other nuts, making them the
healthier choice to eat.
Now it’s time to go for the gold…
you’ve got this.
Monica Price is a qualiied nutritional
therapist, writer and broadcaster.
She is the go-to expert for health
and wellbeing on national television
and radio stations across the UK.
For more information, visit
monica-price.co.uk

ALMONDS
One of the healthiest nuts to eat and a great
recovery food after exercise. A recent study
last year involving people who exercise less
than three times a week demonstrated that
snacking on almonds increased leg and
lower back strength, enhanced recovery

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LIVE THE LIFE
Inspiration to make the most of retirement
HOW TO SPEND IT!

REVEL IN RETIREMENT

WELLBEING WONDERS

Indulge in some luxury with ideas
for escapes, indulgence and fun

Time on your hands? Share a
skill, buy a bike, give a gift...

Fresh air, do-you-good ideas
for memorable adventures

A FASHION MESSAGE

PHOTO:JUTIARPHOTOGRAPHY-LONDON

Silver model Annie Stirk caused a
sensation with an iconic fashion shoot.
Yorkshirewoman Annie, 74, was chosen
to feature in a shoot in central London,
where she posed in striking age-defying
outits – from biker boots to statement
pieces from designer Zandra Rhodes.
Now she is tackling ageism in fashion
urging brands and advertisers to take
more notice of the mature market, as she
joins forces with international charity
Models of Diversity to ask the industry
why they are ‘ignoring a generation of
energetic, vibrant women?’
She says: ‘Not only are today’s over-55s
wealthier, they are also healthier and have
more time to spend their money. Over-50s
already account for around 47 per cent of
all UK consumer spending. But despite
their spending power, the industry’s
institutional ageism makes this powerful
demographic feel invisible. I hope that
by taking part in this shoot with these
amazing images it serves as a reminder
that fashion is ageless and I hope my open
letter gets some of the brands who are
ignoring us to sit up and listen.’

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SPEND YOUR DAYS WELL

Good time on your hands
Share a skill, buy a bike, give a gift... revel in retirement

THE NUMBERS GAME
Money on your mind? ‘The 50/30/20
rule is a plan you can use each month
to divide your money into categories’,
says Gina Silvester, chief operating
oicer at wealth app Chip. It splits to
50 per cent for essentials and any debt
repayments, 30 per cent for nice-tohaves such as cinema trips, eating out
and subscriptions. Finally, 20 per cent
goes towards savings, investments and
longer-term inancial goals such as a
house deposit or an emergency fund.

PEOPLE, PEOPLE
Spending time with others regularly
is important for physical and mental
health. Face-to-face contact can
reduce stress and anxiety levels and
raise our conidence and self-esteem.
Socialising regularly can boost brain
health and reduce the likelihood of
developing a range of conditions,
such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Be proactive and make plans, or say
yes to dinner with a friend even if you
don’t really feel like it.

WISE UP

LEARN SOMETHING NEW
Free online resources are great for those who may be
short on time, money or both because you can use them
at your leisure, and they won’t cost you a penny. No
matter what age you are, the internet has plenty to ofer
and continues to evolve and develop all the time. It’s
worth using free online resources to supplement your
learning. A good place to start is the website restless.co.uk
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Over-50s can use the free Pension
Wise service. Downloading your
pension provider’s app and checking
your pension regularly may help
you get an idea of your pension pot.
The Pension Tracing Service can
also help with tracking down ‘lost’
pensions. The Pensions and Lifetime
Savings Association (PLSA) produces
retirement living standards to give
people an idea of the lifestyle to expect
in retirement. The gov.uk website
can also help people check state
pension forecasts.

Yorkshire Life

Retirement your way – it might mean
buying an electric bike, learning a new
skill or heading to a daytime disco

ON TWO WHEELS
If Sunday cycling in Lycra has been your let-of-steam outlet during working life, then
chances are that’s going to be a go-to challenge for retirement too – with even longer
journeys, higher climbs and sunnier spots than Yorkshire. But novice cyclists are
increasingly turning to electric bikes to make their journeys easier, distances greater – or
as a greener switch from car-based travel, especially in cycle-friendly cities like York.

FAMILY GIFTING

WRITE THAT BOOK

DJ YOUR DAYS

A third of people have given a family
member £5,000 or more towards a
home, university, wedding or debt.
Sarah Coles, head of personal inance
at Hargreaves Lansdown, says: ‘You
have a gifting allowance of £3,000
each year which falls out of your estate
for inheritance tax purposes. You
can give bigger gifts and, if you live
another seven years, it will also fall
out of your estate. Your generosity can
cut a potential inheritance tax bill.’

Life experience, skills to pass on or the
novel that’s been brewing for years?
Retirement means time on your hands
to get creative. If you want guidance,
then look into taking a creative writing
course. Wherever you live, there are
dozens of writing courses you can
beneit from. If you’re writing noniction, you might also beneit from a
class. If you believe you have a book in
you, then writing it is only the irst step.
Check out restless.co.uk for more tips.

Daytime ‘nightclubs’ are having a
moment. Relive the heady days of
’80s and ’90s music with a daytime
night out for the over-30s. Actress
Vicky McClure and husband Jonny
Owen have created their club night
Day Fever that’s open from 3-8pm so
you can party hard then get home for
cocoa. In August and September join
the fun in Sheield and Leeds. See
Day Fever on Facebook or booking
sites such as viagogo.co.uk

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August 2024

179

Wellbeing your way
Fresh air, do-you-good adventures await
in retirement. Here’s our pick

WALK AND TALK
Social walks are brilliant for mental and
physical health. Yorkshire Dales-based
Muddy Boots organises guided walks tailored
to your speciic requirements. They know
the Yorkshire Dales like the back of their
hands so, whether you’re looking to get of
the beaten track, are new to hiking, would
like support with a challenge walk or simply
want to learn a bit more about the area,
plan a guided walk to suit. Walks are led by
Muddy Boots’ co-founder, Matt, a qualiied
hiking guide, who can plan the route to
it in with your requirements for distance,
diiculty, location and with your interests.
This autumn there are walks in Malham and
Grassington planned
muddybootswalkingholidays.com

HEAD FOR THE HILLS
Motorhomes are having a moment – if
you’re thinking of going mobile then hire
a motorhome and start of small by ticking
of some Yorkshire bucket list locations. It

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might well be a prelude for the grand tour
of Europe next. Just see how you manage in
the conined space irst.

above: Rent a campervan and tick off
your Yorkshire sights bucket list. Photo: PA

DIG DEEP

river swimming. After a short drive to the
swim spot in Summerbridge, you will be fully
supported to enjoy the beneits of wild water
swimming. Return to Acorn for a wholesome
plant-based lunch and the opportunity to
relax for the afternoon in the sauna, steam
facilities and relaxation rooms.
acornwellness.wpengine.com

If gardening is your thing, volunteering could
give you the opportunity to work in some
of Yorkshire’s most stunning and stately
gardens, where you can meet new people,
learn new skills and pass on your expertise.
Newby Hall, RHS Harlow Carr and National
Trust have volunteer opportunities – as do
places such as Ripon Walled Garden and
Helmsley Walled Garden.

TAKE THE PLUNGE
Wild swimming is popular with midlifers
– try a Wild Swimmer’s Retreat at Acorn
Retreat, near Harrogate, known as ‘a day of
relaxation with a splash of adventure’.
A day of exploring river swimming with an
expert, it starts with a cleansing cuppa and
mindful breathing, with a discussion about
the principles of cold water and the safety of

SAUNA ON THE SAND
The folks at Whitby Wellbeing encourage
you to peel of the layers, soak up the ozone
and immerse yourself in a sauna on the sand.
They have regular beach saunas across the
Yorkshire coast, so whether you seek a quiet
moment of relection or a chance to bond with
loved ones in a serene seaside environment,
their blissful retreats might be the start of
something new.
whitbywellbeing.com

Yorkshire Life

E-bikes are an increasingly popular way of getting out and about

WIN a pair of electric bikes
Time for adventure on two wheels with this fabulous
prize worth £2,800 from WHEELBASE in Ilkley
itch the car and see Yorkshire on
two wheels with an electric bike.
We’ve tea med up w it h
WHEELBASE in Ilkley to ofer a
brilliant prize of a Step-Over and a Step-Thru
Electra e-leisure bikes, together worth £2,800.
The brilliant bikes take the hard work out
of cycling and are an increasingly popular
mode of transport – whether for commuting,
leisure or adventure.
The batteries take the strain in both bike
styles. The Electra Loft Go! 7D is a lightweight
e-bike that is easy to use thanks to a simple
and intuitive Hyena drive system and
seven-speed gearing.
It provides the range needed to take you
on some great cycling adventures. This
modern-day classic was designed with
both versatility and style in mind, with the
traditional ‘Step-Over’ frame shape or the
easier ‘Step-Thru’ frame design.

Win! The Electra
electric bike. StepThru bike
e (left)
and Step
p -Over
bike (right)

PHOTO:BRIANKUHLMANN

THE E-BIKES

• Reach a top-assisted speed of 25km/h
with support from the rear hub motor.
• A fully-integrated 250Wh battery
provides a range of up to 65km.
• Monitor your level of power

Yorkshire Life

support and battery charge
easily with the LED controller.
• The seven-speed drivetrain adds
extra range for getting around.

WHEELBASE YORKSHIRE
Wheelbase in Ilkley is the electric bike expert.
The company has been at the forefront
of premium cycle retail for more than
30 years and has a team of expert staf on
hand to help you choose the perfect electric
bike from the expansive range. Stocking top
brands like Electra, Trek, Cube, Cannondale,
Scott, Merida, Orbea, Eovolt and Riese and

Muller. With a fully equipped workshop and
a professional team of mechanics they can
also handle all your electric bike servicing
needs and ofer ive-star customer support.

WHEELBASE Ilkley,
25 Skipton Road,
Ilkley LS29 9EW
wheelbase.co.uk
For a chance to win, scan
the QR code or visit
promotions.newsquest.
co.uk/yorkshirelife

August 2024

185

The Lake House and
Island at Swinton Park.
Photo: Swinton Estate

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August 2024

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to tick of your
bucket list
1
HIRE A PRIVATE ISLAND
Escape to your own private island in the grounds of Swinton Park,
Masham. This is the perfect spot to celebrate big events with your
nearest and dearest. Take a hand-drawn cable ferry across to your own
private kingdom, complete with a Georgian-style summerhouse. Feast
on a picnic, then light the brazier, before retreating to the Lake House.
swintonestate.com

2
HEAD FOR THE FAST LANE
If you’ve always dreamt of what it would be like to get
behind the wheel of a supercar, now’s your chance. Live
out your F1 fantasy in a McLaren 570S or feel like James
Bond in an Aston Martin – it’s LL possible at Croft Circuit.
croftcircuit.co.uk

3
THE SUITE LIFE
Stay in Yorkshire’s most luxurious hotel, Grantley Hall,
near Ripon, and book the Royal Suite. Set over two
loors, there’s a dining area for entertaining guests, a
complimentary bar and even your own butler.
grantleyhall.co.uk

4
TIME TRAVEL
Hop onboard Britain’s most luxurious train – the Northern
Belle. Embark upon a journey of total decadence as you
explore destinations across the UK with champagne,
gourmet dining, entertainment and memorable moments.
northernbelle.co.uk

5
CHEFS TABLE
A well-kept gourmet secret, the chefsTABLE at the True
Foods bespoke dining room, near Ripon, will blow your
mind if you’re a food lover. This is an up close and personal
dining event with Michelin-level chefs cooking 14 courses
for 10 diners. Fridays and Saturdays only.
chefstableattruefoods.com

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187

R I S H WO RT H
SCHOOL

R I S H WO RT H

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For the most important people in your life
FREE FUN FOR ALL

SUMMER READS

BOARDING BASICS

Ideas for family days out
this summer

The best books of the month you’ll
want to pack in your beach bag

Modern boarding school is
a home away from home

PLAYTIME IN THE GARDEN

PHOTO:JMAPHOTOGRAPHY

On Wednesday, August 7, The Hepworth Wakeield
celebrates National Playday. It’s the perfect opportunity
to pack a picnic and see its garden in full bloom.
The Hepworth Wakeield Garden is a place for nature,
people and art – and the perfect way to spend a sunny
day. Families can take inspiration from the garden
to build, experiment, draw and imagine in the open
air during free Garden Play sessions every Tuesday to
Sunday during the holidays. No need to book, just
turn up and play. The Hepworth Wakeield Garden is
open daily and is free for everyone to visit. All family
activities in the garden are free.

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August 2024

189

FAMILY DAYS OUT

Fun for free
The summer holidays are a time for
family fun – so, whether you’re a parent,
a carer or grandparent looking for ideas
to ill the days, pack a picnic and check
out these pocket-friendly playdays

SWING INTO FUN
Fun for free guaranteed at Danby Lodge National Park Centre
on the North York Moors with a fabulous new playground that
is inclusive of diferent ages, abilities and conidence levels. It
features an eye-catching tower den (hand-woven with willow),
a double zip-wire and an accessible slide and basket swing.
The structure takes inspiration from the NYM wildlife and
habitats. Look out for a pretend ranger vehicle too. Playground
and Moors Centre free to visit. northyorkmoors.org.uk

MEET A DRAGON

HUNT A DINOSAUR

It’s the event of the year in Wakeield
– The Hatchling is a huge-scale giant
dragon puppet that will be hatching
from an egg over the August bank
holiday before building herself a
nest in Wakeield City Centre then,
thrillingly, taking f light across
Pugneys Country Park as the sun
sets. It promises to be a spellbinding
spectacle and all for free.
Wakefield City Centre, and
Pugneys Country Park August
23-25. experiencewakeield.co.uk

In Whitby’s Pannett Park there’s a
pathway in the garden taking you
through 60 million years of Jurassic
time. It is made up of different
colours that represent the age and
depth of the rocks. You will ind
casts and impressions of fossils,
including ammonites, corals and
dinosaur footprints. Take a fun
dino quiz whilst coming face to
face with a Tyrannosaurus Rex,
Stegosaurus, Pterodactyl and more!
discoveryorkshirecoast.com

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August 2024

FOLLOW THE
FLOWERPOTS
Children and grown-ups will love
following the famous lowerpot trail
in this lovely Dales market town. Settle
Flowerpot Festival runs throughout
the summer until September 1.
Households, businesses a nd
community groups come together to
contribute their creative installations.
You can wander the streets and see the
installations for free – or a trail sheet is
£3 from shops and tourist information.
settlelowerpotfestival.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

WALK THE WALLS

VILLAGE ADVENTURES

BATTLE STATIONS

York is always a draw in summer – and
the adventure of walking the ancient
walls (3.4km in all) around the city
never gets old. See the city from a
diferent viewpoint as you’re guided
to city gates with history lessons
along the way. No trip to York would
be complete without a visit to the
National Railway Museum. Get up
close to rail icons including Mallard,
the world’s fastest steam locomotive.
Entry is free.
railwaymuseum.org.uk

Saltaire village near Bradford makes
for a brilliant day out. Named after
Sir Titus Salt who built a textile mill,
known as Salts Mill, this village on
the River Aire is full of character.
Saltaire Village was designated a
World Heritage Site by UNESCO in
2001. You don’t have to book to visit
– and Salts Mill is free to enter. There
are shops, places to eat, wonderful
architecture, a park and canal walks.
saltairevillage.info,
saltsmill.org.uk

The Royal Armories Museum in Leeds
must be one of the best free days out
for families – with daily combat
included. Royal Armouries daily live
combats demos show the expert live
interpretation team bring authentic
combat techniques to life. Elsewhere,
explore thousands of incredible
objects, from ancient times to the
present day. From Japanese samurai to
iconic movie props, from Henry VIII’s
armour to an Indian war elephant.
royalarmouries.org/leeds

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August 2024

191

hen boarding schools are
mentioned to those who have
not been through the system
themselves or have little upto-date knowledge of modern boarding,
misconceptions and assumptions often
abound. They can frequently be based on
ictitious portrayals in books and ilms, where
themes such as loneliness, estrangement
from family, and uber-strict regimes are
often depicted. So what is it like to be a
boarder in 2024, and how does it difer from
what people might perceive or expect? Who
better to ask than those who are currently
in the thick of it?

W
Challenging
misconceptions
Forget Hogwarts and St Custard’s – modern
boarding is a home away from home
WORDS:

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August 2024

Kelly Rose Bradford

FAMILY-STYLE SUPPORT
‘Boarding has been a really positive
experience for me,’ says Annie, who has
boarded at Ampleforth College in York for
seven years. ‘My friendship groups are more
like family, and I feel part of the wider school
community as we all live together – girls from
all years in one boarding house.’
Indeed, many children praise the close
bonds that are formed through boarding, and
the home-from-home environment it fosters,
with peers and staf always on hand to advise,
counsel, or just chat. Francesca, another
Ampleforth boarder, says the ‘support system’

Yorkshire Life

PHOTO:CANFORDSCHOOL

she has at school is just as good as what she
has at home, provided in abundance from
her friends, her housemistress, matron,
house chaplain and tutors. ‘There is
always someone there to listen and to ofer
advice and help whenever times are tough,’
she explains.
For some children, boarding ofers them
more opportunities to enjoy extra-curricular
activities than they would be able to access
if they were day pupils.
‘I get to take part in Model United Nations,
the poetry society, politics society and do
hockey training as well as netball club,’
enthuses Ampleforth boarder Charlotte.
‘It’s so much easier to access these as a boarder
as they are made readily available, and it’s
a great way to have lots of fun outside of
the classroom.’
Nicola Hunter, deputy head pastoral at
Canford School in Dorset, agrees boarding
helps to ignite a real sense of community and
belonging among pupils, as well as widening
their leisure and sporting opportunities, but
adds that it’s their wellbeing and happiness
that is always the main priority for staf.
‘Boarding school life has the care and the
wellbeing of every individual child at its
heart,’ she says. ‘And boarding provides a
safe and nurturing environment where pupils

are encouraged to understand themselves
and develop emotional resilience.’

A PARTNERSHIP
WITH FAMILIES
She also agrees that outdated thinking on
what boarding involves can cause families
to draw the wrong conclusions about what it
means to board in the current climate.
‘There are misconceptions, such as
boarding school means you don’t see your
child for weeks on end. This is an outdated
model and modern boarding looks very
diferent. It’s a true partnership with families,
and schools encourage parents to visit for
sports matches, concerts and productions.’
Twenty-irst century boarding, she says,
is ‘truly inclusive’ for the whole family, with
programmes of social events for parents and
‘at homes’ in the students’ houses.
Canford has received awards for its
boarding provision, and Nicola believes
living-in enables pupils to create a rewarding
balance between their academic work and
their own interests, through having the
chance to be able to use school facilities
outside of lesson time to further their
academic and co-curricular skillsets.
‘Boarding gives pupils time and space,
and a seven-day-week boarding provision

above: Nicola Hunter, deputy
head pastoral at Canford School
top: Ampleforth College in North

Yorkshire: people’s ideas of boarding
schools are often based on the
portrayal of schools in ilms and books,
but don’t necessarily relect reality

>
August 2024

193

EDUCATION

like ours means weekends are a time for the
houses to get together and have ilm and pizza
evenings, or take part in competitions or
quizzes,’ she says, adding that in the summer,
‘great use is made of the house gardens
for barbecues.’

MORE OPPORTUNITIES

PHOTO:CANFORDSCHOOL

Sharing the thoughts of Canford’s current
pupil ‘head of school’, who joined as a day
girl before switching to boarding, Nicola
adds that the social aspects that boarding
brings can be life changing.
‘Abi, our head of school, has really enjoyed
the social aspects of boarding house life and
having the chance to use school facilities to
work in the evenings and at weekends, as well
as the increased activities on ofer; she has
led a winning Riles Cup team, taken part in
Ten Tors on Dartmoor and has successfully
applied for an army scholarship after
university,’ she explains. ‘And when asked
how she would sum up what boarding school
ofers in one word, she said: “opportunity”.’
Patrick, a Year 13 student at Ampleforth
College is head of his house, St Hugh’s.
He concurs that the opportunities that
boarding schools ofer are immense, and
that attending school as a boarder has
‘emphasised the importance of co-curricular
activities’ to him.

‘When in the situation, albeit rather out
of the ordinary, where you live with 40
other boys in a house, 80 others in your
year, or indeed 450 other people in a school,
connections and inter-personal relationships
are integral to boarding school life,’ he says.
‘With these connections and little parts of
life we share with one another in sports and
activities, friendship can be born.
‘The implications of this are immense. With
the perception that one could feel lonely in a
boarding school, getting involved in sports
and activities, becoming a part of a team,
gives you a sense of belonging with people
outside of your house and indeed outside of
your closest friend groups,’ he adds.
‘And as clichéd as it is, by dipping your
feet in many diferent aspects of community,
you form mini-families and support networks
across school.’
This is a thought shared by Dr Andrea Saxel,
deputy head pastoral at Cranleigh School,
who feels that boarding environments foster
tolerance and understanding among students,
and an appreciation of what makes a team.
Far from feeling lonely, or sad to be away from
home, Dr Saxel says that weekly boarding
in particular allows children to ‘really get
stuck in at school’, safe in the knowledge they
will have ‘quality time with their families at
the weekend’.

above: Abi has enjoyed the social
aspect of boarding at Canford School
below: Cranleigh School pupils

appreciate what it is to be a team
below left: Boarding fosters lifelong
friendships, say Ampleforth pupils
below right: Extra-curricular
activities on offer at Ampleforth
College are ‘immense’

PHOTO:CRANLEIGHSCHOOL

‘They have the support of their boarding
house staf and tutors in addition to their
parents and families to navigate the
complexities of the teenage years,’ she says,
adding: ‘A boarding experience ensures
pupils leave as confident, independent,
personable and well-rounded young people
who are equipped to make the best of
their talents.’

FRIENDS FOR LIFE
Back at Ampleforth College, boarder Finbar
relects on what boarding means to him, and
how he feels when he heads to his boarding
house after a hard day of lessons, rather
than to his family home. ‘It never feels like
a challenging place to return to,’ he says.
‘It’s the place where I have the most fun in the
school day, and a place where I can conide
in friends – and I know these friendships
are ones that will last a lifetime.’

PHOTO:HUGHCODRINGTON/AMPLEFORTHCOLLEGE

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August 2024

IN ASSOCIATION WITH:
The Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) is the
leading voice for boarding schools in the UK.
boarding.org.uk

Find out more:
Ampleforth College, ampleforthcollege.org.uk
Canford School, canford.com
Cranleigh School, cranleigh.org

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August 2024

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PHOTOS:MIKEWHORLEY

SOCIETY

Anna Nolan, Jeremy Nolan,
Iryna Andisheh-Tadbir
and Kamran Andisheh-Tadbir

Eleanor Shenderey, Fii Starr, Madeleine Wright, Ava Pitcher-McLeish,
Annabelle Barlow, Immy Sayner, Erinn Baskind, Isabella Jarman

Olivia Njoroge and Alesha Ndikumana

Harrogate Ladies’
College Sixth
Form Ball
Ilene Andisheh-Tadbir,
Gracie Waterhouse, Emily Walker
and Orla McPartland

Charlotte Ingram, Ellie Boon,
Hilary Boon and Simon Boon

The Harrogate Ladies’ College Sixth Form Ball
took place at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate. The
theme for this year’s ball was The Oscars and it
was attended by parents and pupils in Lower 6
and Upper 6, along with members of staf. Guests
enjoyed a three-course dinner and danced the
night away afterwards.
The ball followed the school’s Annual Speech
Day event held at the school earlier in the day,
which celebrated the achievements of all pupils,
particularly the Upper 6 leaving year group.

Helena Kitchingman, Mia Edmondson,
Lily Bisson and Ellie Darcy-Evans

Freya Hatield, Sami Brierley
and Nini Kutateladze

Demi Caizley, Tessa Kabs, Lucy Dargavel,
Sarah Callendar, Amelia Eggleston and Orla McPartland

Yorkshire Life

Lucinda Weston, Helena Kitchingman, Martha Shackleton,
Sophie Ingham-Barrow, Megan Turner and Beatrice Nolan

August 2024

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200 August 2024

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August 2024

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MOTORING

F IR ST DR I V E

Mercedes CLE Cabriolet
The old C-Class and CLK Cabriolets were a byword for comfort, hi-tech and
luxury open-top cruising – can the new topless CLE keep up that reputation?
WORDS:

Cameron Richards PHOTOS: Mercedes/PA

WHAT IS IT?
The CLE replaces the C-Class coupe and now
Mercedes has decided to chop the roof of it
to make it attractive to those who want the
wind-in-the-hair experience. Essentially a
forerunner to the old C-Class Cabriolet, the
CLE Cabriolet is directly competing with the
convertible versions of the BMW 4-Series
and Audi A5.
Designed to offer four-seater luxury
with the ability to travel longer distances,
Mercedes has created the CLE Cabriolet
to be reined, comfortable and, above all,
engaging to drive.

WHAT’S NEW?
The Cabriolet version of the CLE, like the
coupe model, has a new exterior design with
a more curved and swooping body compared
with the C-Class models it replaces, while a
longer wheelbase – with an extra 164mm over
its predecessor – aims to make the interior
more spacious for everyone aboard.
The fabric hood has been designed to stand
up to the very harshest of weather. This is
down to an insulated multi-layered soft top,
which can be operated at speeds of up to
37 mph and takes 20 seconds to be lowered
and raised.
Plus, a new and improved ‘AirCap’ system
located in the top frame of the windscreen
allows the air to low over the car at greater
height to reduce drag and wind noise.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
Our test car was the CLE300 which came
with a 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder that
produces 261bhp and 400Nm of torque – with
emissions and fuel economy igures of 167g/
km of CO2 and 38.2mpg. Mercedes quotes a
zero to 60mph time of 4.5 seconds, too.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
We drove the predicted best-seller, which
was the CLE300, and although the power is
plentiful, it’s let down by a hesitant automatic
gearbox and steering that lacks feel. That
said, standard-it four-wheel-drive helped
inspire conidence in the bends and will be
a welcome attribute in the UK.
However, there is no denying that the
CLE is a heavy car – weighing in at 1,985kg.
So on a twisty road, it feels a little bit out of its

Yorkshire Life

comfort zone, with the car wallowing when
exiting a corner. Thankfully, the suspension
does a great job of absorbing any lumps and
bumps in the road.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
Inside the CLE there are plenty of good points,
with soft plastics used throughout and the
infotainment screen was clear and easy to use.
The space in the back was good, with an
ample amount of legroom, and headroom
wasn’t too bad with the roof up while boot
space was also impressive at 385 litres –
which is the same as the BMW 4-Series and
ive litres more than the Audi A5.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
The CLE Cabriolet is available in four
diferent lavours for British buyers with the
entry-level AMG Line starting at £53,030
and rising to £61,280 for the Premier Edition.
The car we drove was the equivalent of
the UK specced AMG Line Premium which
starts at £58,780. As standard it features
ambient lighting, rain-sensing windscreen
wipers, keyless entry and start, heated and
ventilated front seats, 20in alloy wheels, a
sports steering wheel with Nappa leather
and blind spot monitoring.

FINAL SAY
The CLE Cabriolet was not designed to be
a B road basher or a track day toy for the
driving enthusiast. Instead, it’s been set up
to be a relaxing cruiser for those sunny road
trips down to the south of France. It also has
useable back seats and a bigger boot than the
Audi A5 cabriolet, making it practical and a
genuine four-seater.
Also, thanks to standard mild-hybrid
technology, the CLE Cabriolet will be a lot
cheaper to run than the old C-Class Cabriolet.
Although it’s not revolutionary, the droptop version of the CLE is still a great choice
for those wanting a useable yet premium
four-seater cabriolet with that three-pointed
star pedigree.

TECH & SPEC
Model as tested: Mercedes CLE300 4Matic
Price as tested: £58,750
Engine: 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder
Power: 261bhp
Torque: 400 Nm
Max speed: 155mph
0-60mph: 4.5 seconds
MPG: mpg: 38.2 mpg
Emissions: 167g/km

August 2024

203

JANE TOWNSON OBE
CEO of the Homecare Association, who has extensive experience
in the social care, health, housing and technology sectors

otted across the East China Sea,
the Okinawa archipelago is a
picturesque blend of Japanese
cultural richness and natural
beauty. What sets Okinawa apart on the
global stage is its status as a ‘Blue Zone’,
with a remarkable population of healthy
centenarians. Okinawan longevity has led
to extensive research, as scientists seek to
uncover its secrets. This article explores why
Okinawa’s elders live long and fulilling lives,
providing inspiration for us all.
An important element in the Okinawans’
long healthy life is their traditional diet, which
is low in calories and packed with nutrients.
It is mainly plant-based and includes a variety
of vegetables, legumes, and soy products,
with sweet potatoes as a staple. Okinawan
purple sweet potato is rich in carbohydrates,
vitamins, minerals, and lavonoids. Oily ish,
consumed in moderation, provides a healthy
dose of omega-3 fatty acids, beneicial for
brain health.
Sea vegetables, or seaweeds, play a
signiicant role in the Okinawan diet. These
contain 10 to 20 times the minerals of land
plants. Calcium, iron, magnesium and
iodine are present in a bioavailable form.
Sea vegetables are also rich in vitamins A,
B, C, and E vitamins, as well as protein,
soluble ibre, and omega-3 fatty acids. They
contain other bioactive substances which can
ight inlammation, bacteria, and viruses.
Regularly consuming sea vegetables is
associated with lower rates of heart disease
and certain cancers. The traditional
Okinawan diet comprises few processed
foods and only small portions of meat, dairy,
and eggs. It is high in antioxidants, which can
help prevent chronic diseases by reducing
inlammation and oxidative stress. This
dietary pattern matches modern advice to
eat more vegetables, fruit, and wholegrains,
and less saturated fats and processed foods.
A unique aspect of the Okinawan lifestyle
is the practice of Hara Hachi Bu, which
translates to eating until one is 80 per cent
full. Studies suggest restricting calorie
intake can lead to better health outcomes,
with lower rates of obesity and heart disease.
The practice of Hara Hachi Bu is not about
deprivation or extreme calorie-counting,
but about mindful eating and listening to
our body. Okinawans savour their food,
taking time to appreciate the lavours and
textures. This not only helps with portion
control, but also helps digestion and promotes
a more satisfying dining experience.
Okinawans continue to be active in
advanced old age, keeping body and mind

204

August 2024

Embrace your ikigai
resilient. Many walk daily and practise
traditional dance and martial arts. Gardening
and farming involve exercise and keep elders
engaged in purposeful work.
Strong social networks, or moai, provide
emotional and social support, reducing
stress and promoting a sense of belonging.
Tight-knit communities formed in childhood
offer lifelong support, purpose, and
connection. Spending time together, sharing
meals, and working together strengthens
social bonds and promotes wellbeing.
Another important concept in Okinawan
culture is ikigai, which translates to ‘reason
for being’ or ‘purpose in life’. Finding our
ikigai involves discovering the intersection
of what we love, what we are good at; what
the world needs; and what we can be paid
for. Some in Okinawa continue working until
they are 100 or more.
While a healthy lifestyle is crucial, research
suggests genes also play a role in Okinawan
longevity. The Okinawa Centenarian
Study, the world’s longest study on people
over 100 years of age, has uncovered some
fascinating insights.
Siblings of Okinawan centenarians have
a much higher chance of living to an old
age themselves compared to the average
person. This suggests that shared genes in
families may inluence long life. For example,

Okinawan centenarians are more likely to
have a version of the DR1 gene that may
protect against inlammatory conditions.
They also have gene variants that promote
cardiovascular health. These include variants
in the CETP gene that are associated with
beneicial cholesterol proiles. There is also
a lower frequency of the APOE4 variant,
which increases risk of heart disease and
Alzheimer’s disease.
Another interesting inding relates to the
DNA in mitochondria, the powerhouses of our
cells. Okinawan centenarians have a higher
prevalence of a mitochondrial DNA type
known as mt5178A. This may help protect
their mitochondria from age-related damage
and improve energy production.
The subtropical climate and clean
environment of the islands also contribute
to the health and longevity of its inhabitants.
Warm weather encourages year-round
outdoor activities. Exposure to natural
sunlight promotes vitamin D production and
wellbeing. With its clean air, water, and fresh
local produce, these islands ofer a naturally
healthy environment.
While it is not feasible to replicate all
aspects of the Okinawan lifestyle,
incorporating key elements into our daily
routine can improve our health and wellbeing,
no matter where we live.

Yorkshire Life

Okinawans savour
their food, taking time
to appreciate the
lavours and textures

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Helena, who returns to
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a dig on an Aegean island.
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earth and to understand
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from start to inish.
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are
e cra ts the
most dark and thrilling stories. He has a
passion and lifelong interest in gaslight
murders, particularly Jack the Ripper,
and owns up to having pretty much every
book written on the subject! He is currently
working on writing more books.
Domini Mortum is a supernatural
murder mystery novel set in late Victorian
London. The story is gripping and has so
many twists and turns it will leave you
reeling. The story’s protagonist, Samuel
Weaver, an illustrator and correspondent
for The Illustrated Police News, is renowned
for his work; his sensationalist style of
drawing and writing make him popular
with the public, who love his bloodthirsty
and violent stories, and hated by other
members of the press and the police,
who see him as a self-serving monster.
Weaver is, however, a deeply flawed
character whose fascination with murderer
Sibelius Darke leads him to tread a
dangerous path that to both loss and
personal tragedy.
I thought that this was a brilliantly
written and researched novel. It is evident
fro
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nes,
coll ctions
of short stories and poetry. Her work has
been published widely, and broadcast on
BBC radio. She lives in Yorkshire and
works in publishing.
Her latest book of short stories is a
love letter to Japan. Huggins takes us on
a journey both external and internal, as
she explores the culture, customs, and
landscapes, through characters who
struggle to ind connection, both with
other people and with nature. From
the bewildering noise and lights of the
city to the peaceful beauty of the parks,
and forests, the lost characters travel
through an alluring yet politely distant
environment. The stories are painfully
human, with themes of loss, loneliness and
a search for meaning. Japanese folklore
is deftly woven into a very real world, as
loved ones appear and disappear, and
everything is always more than it seems
to be. Family is both lost and found, and
often haunts you either way. Husbands
are disconnected and cold. Strangers are
friendly but removed. Yet the beauty of
the cherry blossoms and the peace of the
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CROSSWORD

We hope you enjoy our local knowledge
crossword and brain-teaser sudoku. Look
out for answers in the September edition

The letters in the shaded pink squares spell out a hidden Yorkshire placename
ACROSS

1 Traditional title for the
driver of a horse-driven
carriage; built in 1776, The
______, a Georgian inn in
Snainton, near Scarborough,
now boasts a ine-dining
restaurant in addition to
its two popular bars (8)
5 Something all archaeologists
do; based in St Saviour Church,
___ is York Archaeological
Trust’s museum and
educational centre (3)
8 Halifax-born fashion
designer and entrepreneur
____ Whiteley (1903-72);
her label specialised in
stylish blouses sold by
1,000 retailers across
the UK; the town’s
Innovation Centre, a hub
for creative businesses, is
named in her honour (5)
9 Term for a series of boat
races; Whitby _____, an
annual event promising
exciting yacht and rowing
races, takes place on
August 17-19 (7)
10 Pop-rock band formed in
2003, named after a character
in Back To The Future; they
play two shows at Piece Hall,
Halifax, on August 10 (5)
11 White, dense, malleable
metal element mined
throughout the Yorkshire Dales
from Roman times until the
late 19th century; remnants of
the industry can still be found
at Old Gang, near Reeth (4)
14 Bustling market town 10
miles north-east of Doncaster;
it lies on the Stainforth and
Keadby Canal; the town’s
Memorial Park is home to a
popular miniature railway (6)
15 Established by Catherine
_____ in 1971, ______
Shoes is a York-based empire of
100 retail stores; it started with
‘shoe parties’ ofering clearance
stock from shoe catalogues;
the irst retail shop opened
later in Scarborough (6)

7
8

17
18

19
20

18 Naval slang for the rum
ration which ended in 1970;
The Grub & ____ Shop was
an ethical restaurant, based
in Sheaf Street, Leeds (4)
19 Founded by William
_____ in Scarborough
in 1881, this chain of
department stores specialise
in household products,
fashion and footwear
at their many outlets
throughout our county (5)
21 This is a Yorkshire dialect
term for a narrow passageway
between two walls, or
behind a row of houses (7)
22 Named after the clergy
member responsible for the
running of York Minster,
____’_ Park on the north
side of the minster is also
home to the cathedral
library, The Old Palace (4’1)
23 Northern dialect word,
meaning ‘anything’; Eating
___, witty title of The
Northern Echo’s muchmissed restaurant and pub
food column by legendary
journalist Mike Amos (3)

24 Architect, and dramatist of
the Restoration era,
Sir John _______
(1664-1726), best known
as the designer of both
Blenheim Palace and
Castle Howard (8)

DOWN

2 The name derives from the
pre-Celtic word for ‘water’
or ‘slow-lowing river’; an
appropriate title for the
wider one of the two which
low through York (4)
3 Shape of the moon
before its irst quarter phase;
The ______, a former
York working men’s club,
now a community venue
recognised as a leading grass
roots music venue (8)
4 An aromatic evergreen
shrub with white lowers and
blue-black berries; ______
Grove, also known since 1926
as Bingley Town Hall (6)
5 Dialect word for a foolish
person, and also for the
plover (so-called because
they were ‘foolish’ and

caught easily); The _____
Inn at Reighton, near Filey (8)
6 The _____ Hotel,
dominating the skyline at
Scarborough, this stunning
building opened in 1867 as
‘the largest and handsomest
hotel in Europe’; its unusual
V-shaped style is in honour
of Queen Victoria (5)
7 & 20 Down This hamlet
at Conisbrough Clifs, near
Doncaster, was a limestone
quarrying settlement from
1815 until the 1920s when
insanitary conditions led
to its abandonment (6,4)
12 This confection
(singular), irst produced by
Rowntree’s in York in 1948
is known for having ‘a hole
in the middle’; a standard
pack contains 23 (4,4)
13 This ornamental strongly
scented plant with small
purple lowers is cultivated
for its essential oil used
in perfumery; located at
Terrington, Yorkshire _____
is a 60-acre farm
and sculpture park
attraction (8)
16 To scatter luid
about in lying masses;
appropriate name for _____
Park, the Huddersield
leisure centre featuring the
Sidewinder, The Lazy River
and an eight-lane pool for
serious swimmers (6)
17 This picturesque North
York Moors village is home
to the Camphill Community
for people with learning
diiculties; several organic
social farms are located
around the village (6)
18 If you know the Italian
word for ‘taste’, vigorous
enjoyment, zest or relish,
then you can identify
Il _____, stylish
retailers of oils, vinegars,
liqueurs and spirits in
Low Petergate, York (5)
20 See 7 Down

Last month’s answers: ACROSS: 1 Pass 3 Pagoda 7 Dalton 8 Skeeby 10 Arcadia 11 Idles 12 Don 13 Barth
14 Jar 16 Sugar 17 Cowshed 19 Redcar 20 Dobson 21 Yordas 22 Ryan DOWN: 1 Pelican 2 Sword 4 Askwith
5 Abyss 6 Edward 9 Maurice 13 Barbara 14 Johnson 15 Riding 16 Stray 18 Woody PLACE: PUDSEY
208

August 2024

Yorkshire Life

TAKE A BREAK

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SUDOKU

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Solution to last month’s Sudoku

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Yorkshire Life

August 2024

209

PEOPLE

MY
YORKSHIRE WEEKEND
BEV ADAMS is the director of Holmirth Arts Festival, a freelance

artistic director and creative producer, co-director or Edgelands Arts
(a Wakeield based community arts organisation) and a part-time PhD researcher.
Born in Sheield, she grew up in South Africa and now lives in Wakeield

Friday nights out – cocktail or chill?
If I am not working on an event, I like to stay
in on Friday nights. I pour myself a gin and
tonic and chill in the garden or in front of
the TV. On some Friday nights, I go out for
dinner with my mother-in-law, or we meet
for drinks at each other’s houses. We live
in the Wakeield village of Walton and we
are blessed that we have a great local pub,
The New Inn, which does excellent food.
Saturday morning –
parkrun or papers?
If I am not working on a Saturday event,
a Saturday morning is my time to do a bit
of sorting out and cleaning after my busy
week, but it’s all very relaxed and usually
accompanied by Radio 4. In the afternoon,
I head to my partner’s house in Hadield, near
Glossop, or he comes to me in Wakeield.
Feeding time?
I love food and cooking. I try to take my main
meal at lunch time in the week and eat lightly
in the evenings. My favourite fast food is
falafel so you’ll ind me grabbing one of those
for a lunch when I am out and about near
the University of Leeds or at Edgelands Arts
studios at The Art House in Wakeield. When
I am in Holmirth, I often have a working
lunch at the Old Bridge Inn.
210

August 2024

PHOTO:AMANDACROWTHER

How do you spend your days?
Most days, when I am producing events or
researching, and not on site at an event,
I work from home so I try to do around 15
minutes of yoga before settling down to my
laptop at around 8-9am. On Wednesdays
and Fridays, I start a little later as I go to the
gym for a HIIT and kettlebells class, and a
swim. I often work into the evenings, and
when I don’t have an evening meeting, I’m
usually still on my laptop until around 10pm,
at which point, I down tools and the telly
goes on. Thursday night is reserved for Kung
Fu training and on Monday nights I video
call my brother in South Africa. I love being
outdoors, so I punctuate my screen time with
a potter in the garden or get creative in my
garage cum studio.

Bev Adams at Holmirth Arts Festival this year

Retail therapy?
I am not fond of shopping really. I try and pick
up second-hand items on eBay and Vinted or
I pop into charity shops. I sometimes pick up
unusual gifts and clothing items at festivals.
Saturday night perfection?
We like live music so are often at a gig in
Manchester Glossop or Wakeield. I also like
visual theatre and circus so try to get to see
shows when they are in town. If we’re not out,
we will look for a good ilm to watch at home.
Sunday relaxation?
Sundays start with a lie in. Then we’ll go
for a walk near me or in the Peak District.
My partner and I have great walks from our
doors. We like outdoor swimming so are
always seeking out nice rivers and lakes. I
also live close to Walton Hall in Wakeield,
where we may pop in for a swim. On some
Sundays, we just chill or go to an art gallery
– I like the Whitworth in Manchester and
The Hepworth. Yorkshire Sculpture Park
has a special place in my heart as I studied
my undergraduate degree there at Bretton
Hall College.

Hopes for the year ahead?
I am working on the theme of FLOW for the
next two years at Holmirth Arts Festival,
so I am looking forward to programming
and producing year two. Based on the
Peak District National Park, Holmirth
Arts Festival focusses on Creativity in the
Landscape and the theme of low is inspired
by the River Holme and the people and
ideas that low through the valley. I am also
looking forward to sinking my teeth into my
PhD, which is about whether giant puppet
performances in the street can communicate
climate change messages to passing
audiences. To do this I will be building
my own giant puppet and looking into the
creative activism of Extinction Rebellion
and new climate change themed work by
The Walk Productions, who took the giant
refugee puppet, Little Amal, on a journey
across across the world to highlight the issues
faced by refugees. So it’s a busy year ahead
for me, splitting my time between Holmirth
Arts Festival, community arts projects with
Edgelands Arts and PhD research.
Holmirth Arts Festival runs until
September, holmirthartsfestival.co.uk

Yorkshire Life

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