If you’re looking for different ways to enjoy your Somerset cider as the party season approaches, why not think about mixing a cider cocktail to celebrate with your friends and family?
Topped up with a blood orange cider, this delicious and warming toffee apple cider cocktail from Thatchers is just right for Halloween.
Spread the word! Butter boards, topped with vibrant, delicious delights are sweeping the nation.
If you haven’t already seen this trend on TikTok, a butter board is all about fresh butter being spread onto a board, before being decorated with an assortment of toppings, served with bread for dipping.
Before going viral on TikTok, the invention is credited to the cookbook Six Seasons: A New Way With Vegetables by Joshua McFadden. While for us, it will never replace the charcuterie board, these photogenic sharing platters are perfect for gatherings and a novel way of serving bread. They’re also great for a celebratory vegetarian feast, too, which was the original point.
As butter is the star of the show, it’s worth sourcing the good stuff. A regular old butter spread isn’t going to cut it here. Our friends at Trewithen Dairy tell us that their luxuriously smooth and rich salted butter is ideal for a butter board.
The butter fat content in the Cornish cream used to make their butter gives it such an exceptional mouthfeel and transforms a hunk of bread into something very special indeed.
Moreovever, Trewithen’s butter is enhanced further with the addition of Cornish sea salt, which is hand-harvested from the ocean waters west of the Tamar. The salt’s unique, concentrated flavour enhances anything it is paired with. Indeed, it is this rich complexity of flavour that brings Trewithen Dairy butter to life.
With the help of Trewithen, here’s how to make the IDEAL butter board, alongside some recipe ideas that we’ve churned out (sorry).
How To Make A Butter Board
Soften a block of butter so it is spreadable but still firm
Take your favourite wooden board or sharing platter and spread the butter onto the board
Using a spoon, create ripples and grooves in the butter to fill with your toppings
Top with an assortment of delicious delights
Serve with slices of French baguette for dragging, dipping and spreading
Butter Board Pairing & Flavour Ideas
Though this is a trend which has a ‘no holds barred’ feel to it, you shouldn’t simply throw everything you’ve got at your board and hope for the best. Instead, try to pair considerately and thoughtfully, using ingredients that go well together. Here are just a few ideas…
Raspberry jam, crumbled shortcakes and desiccated coconut
The Breakfast Butter Board
For an indulgent brekkie, try raspberry jam, fresh raspberries, orange Zest, maple syrup and croissants for dipping.
The Appetiser Butter Board
Serve up an appetiser board of Gordal olives, red peppers from a jar, crispy sage leaves, toasted pine nuts and olive oil for drizzling, to really impress (or befuddle) your dinner party guests.
The Sunday Brunch Butter Board
For a Sunday brunch with a difference, a board of Nutella, toasted hazelnuts, slices of banana and toasted French bread could really hit the spot.
The Bottom Line
Of course, these are only a few ideas of the places you can take a butter board. Whether savoury or sweet, sharing or solo (which would, admittedly, be pretty indulgent), this Tik Tok trend looks here to stay, and we’re certainly not complaining!
Hands up who noticed the fallen leaves on their brisk, multi-layered walk around the block earlier? Okay, we see a lot of raised mittens; autumn is definitely here!
The changing seasons, particularly that transition from the unbridled optimism of summer into the relative introspection of autumn, can sometimes knock folk off-kilter, with the first rumblings of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) beginning during this time.
Whilst it’s vital to see a GP if you’re struggling to cope, there are several lifestyle measures recommended by experts that can address a change in mood brought on by the onset of shorter, colder days. With that in mind, here are 5 ways to tackle a seasonal change in mood proactively.
Let There Be Light
According to the NHS, whilst the precise cause of SAD isn’t yet understood, ‘’it’s often linked to reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter autumn and winter days.’’
This may effect the brain’s production of melatonin, serotonin, and our circadian rhythm, all of which play a role in regulating our mood.
It’s essential, then, to make the most of the natural light whenever you can. The evenings haven’t yet fully drawn in, and neither should the curtains on another summer past. Sunlight is good for the soul, make no mistake, with research suggesting that the brain produces more serotonin (the brain’s natural antidepressant) on sunny rather than darker days.
But that’s not all; technology can be used to address a lack of natural light, too. There are now a wide range of SAD wake-up lamps that can mimic a natural sunrise, perfect for the dark mornings when getting out of bed seems tougher.
Harness The Power Of Aroma With A Scented Candle
Dips and deviations in mood because of a change in weather certainly can’t be cured through a scented candle, but the power of aroma can have an impact on our wellbeing in some instances.
Wondering what candle to burn? If you want a boost of energy and, erm, zest, the smell of citrus fruit has been shown to do this. Want to feel relaxed? Candles of jasmine and lavender offer a wonderfully soothing scent that have calming properties, perfect to help you unwind.
That reduced exposure to sunlight and the subsequent loss of vitamin D supply can cause mood fluctuations. Accordingly, it might be wise to mark the shift in seasons with a shift in diet.
Do endeavour to eat healthily and in a balanced fashion, with a focus, as always, on fruit and vegetables. The more green foods you can pile onto your plate the better. Broccoli, apples, kale, spinach, courgettes, avocado, peas.the list is near endless. Green foods are packed with immune-boosting vitamin C, iron, vitamin E, carotenoids and zinc; great for the body and soul.
It can also be hugely inspiring and soul-nourishing to eat with the seasons as much as possible, giving you a new appreciation for nature and the passing of time. In season right now and wonderfully good-for-you are a whole range of darker autumnal fruits, like plums, Bramley apples, figs, apricots and pears, to name but a few. Vegetables at their peak in early Autumn include butternut squash, celeriac, kale, leeks, pumpkin and more.
Supplements
It can be tough to get enough of that all important Vitamin D from the sun during the autumn and winter months. Unfortunately, it’s also not that easy to find sufficient Vitamin D from your diet alone, though fatty fish and fish liver oils do contain it.
The good news is that there are various, affordable Vitamin D supplements out there, and as such, it might be sensible to stock up for autumn. As the NHS recommends, ‘’Government advice is that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter.’’
Though it’s not clear whether SAD is directly affected by your production or intake of vitamins, it’s certainly worth keeping your Vitamin D levels up, potentially alongside Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, if you’re not a massive fan of oily fish.
Other supplements may soothe the stresses of a shift in the seasons, too. The amino acid L-Theanine can help reduce heart rate, inhibit the release of the ‘stress hormone’ cortisol and potentially, create a sense of relaxation approximately 30-40 minutes after ingestion. The good news is that it’s found in a cup of tea, but if you prefer, L-Theanine can also be bought in capsule form, for those crazy folk who don’t like tea.
Keep The Exercise Up
When the sun is shining and the temperature mild, exercise is easy, whether that’s taking yourself for a run, embarking on a long stroll or getting down the gym in one, dry piece. Autumn can bring about a very different approach to exercise, when the temptation of the sofa is often too strong to get you in your gym kit and out the door.
During times like these, it’s important to remember just how hugely, immeasurably beneficial exercise is, for both the body and mind, with the NHS recommending 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week, to boost mood, health and wellbeing, as well as keeping a whole host of issues at bay.
There really is no reason not to. Not even the drizzle and chill in the air!
The Bottom Line
Though the cause of a changing seasonal mood isn’t firmly established, many experts believe it can be addressed via a few simple lifestyle measures, including increased exposure to natural light, diet, and exercise.
Sleep also plays a crucial role here. Sadly, as so many will know, those nightly Zzzeds can be disrupted as the seasons change. Allow us, then, to direct you to our tips on the best ways to improve your circadian rhythm for more on doing just that.
*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified mental health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*
Baby showers, traditionally an American celebration, have become increasingly popular on this side of the pond in recent years. Not that we’re complaining; any and every excuse to throw a party can’t be a bad thing!
Anyway, we digress. The main idea behind a baby shower is that the mother is ‘showered’ with gifts – for her and the soon-to-be new arrival. This is both a whole lot of fun and a huge help towards the staggering costs of a newborn baby.
More importantly, the event serves to emphasise and reiterate that much needed support network for new parents. So, with that in mind, if you’re the friend or family member charged with planning the event, then here are 7 IDEAL tips for organising the perfect baby shower.
Settle On A Date That Suits Mother-To-Be, Friends & Family
First things first, get the date in the diary of the baby shower. Nail that thing down. Talk to the expecting mother and choose a time that suits her. You’ll want to make sure that you don’t end up clashing with any doctors’ appointments or her working hours if she is not on maternity leave yet; expectant mothers can find themselves pretty short on time, after all.
Moreover, you’ll want the mum-to-be to enjoy the day with her friends and not worry about the idea of giving birth at any minute, so avoid hosting it towards the very end of her third trimester.
Traditionally the baby shower takes place around seven weeks before the birth, when the expectant mother is safely into her pregnancy but still comfortable.
Send out invitations well in advance and get everyone to RSVP; this way they’ll have plenty of time to reserve the date and find that all important present. Also, consider going against your stereotypical baby shower full of women; the father has, after all, played a role in getting the bun in the oven.
A Stress-Free Location
If you want to plan the perfect baby shower (and you do, that’s why you’re here) then obviously you’ll need to find the perfect location. The mother won’t be able to drink, so it’s best to steer clear of noisy, packed bars, unless you are booking out a private room.
If you don’t have the cash to splash, you could host the baby shower at your house, or ask a friend if you can hold it at theirs.
And unless the expectant mother has a mansion and butler, don’t host it at her place; you want to prevent the whole day becoming stressful for her. If you’re hosting the shower when the weather’s nice, consider a park party – just make sure there a public toilets closeby!
The Photo Session
Capturing memories at a baby shower can be a delightful yet delicate task as ensuring the comfort of the expectant mother is crucial. When considering photography, the first imperative tip is to secure a professional or an experienced amateur photographer who understands how to navigate the environment, creating a balance between capturing the event and maintaining an intimate, comfortable atmosphere.
Empathy is key in their approach, as the mother-to-be may be feeling a range of emotions. It may help to discuss the style of photos desired beforehand, detailing whether candid or posed shots are preferred, or a bit of both.
The use of natural lighting can greatly embellish the charm in photos, so consider this when organising the venue and time of day. Moreover, personal touches to your photographs, like using props or designing particular setups that reflect the personality or theme of the baby shower, can ensure stunningly memorable pictures. If she’s feeling comfortable and stylish, it might even be a great opportunity for her to showcase some beautiful maternity dresses for photoshoot sessions.
Above all else though, ensure the expectant mother is comfortable at all stages of photography, taking breaks when needed and offering support to ensure her day is as beautiful as the photos taken.
The Theme& Decorations
For a baby shower, the overarching theme is of course already written. If you’ve learnt the gender of the baby, awesome, but avoid going overboard with cheesy, gender conformist pinks and sky blues. If you do opt for a pink or blue theme, do it in a minimalist, classy way.
If you’re not keen on letting colours dictate the ambience, then tea parties are always popular for baby showers as you don’t have to provide alcohol and the vibe is graceful and relaxed.
Alternatively, you could keep things simple and organic, slinging up a few banners, bunting and balloons galore, setting the right tone for a fun, frivolous but laid-back time.
The All-Important Gifts & Games
It’s likely that people are going to bring gifts to the baby shower – being as that is what this is all, on the face of it, about – so you should make sure that you have a good way of organising these when they arrive. If you want to prevent any sort of duplicates, you could get together a list of gifts that the mother would enjoy receiving.
But what present to present we hear you ask? A practical present is a great place to start; something that is essential to a new parent like a breast pump, overnight diapers or baby blankets are all good ideas.
Keepsakes are another great options; some brilliant gift ideas include a baby handprinting kit, a newborn photography session, baby milestone cards or a classic silver babyspoon that the parents can engrave when the baby is born. Decisions, decisions!
Organised fun. You either love it or you hate it. While we firmly reside in the latter group and are secretly envious of people who genuinely enjoy getting stuck in, baby showers are one of those events where some sort of game is expected.
While we recommend avoiding toilet humor games such as filling a potty with prosecco and ‘downing it’ – not for anyone, especially for the expectant mother who can’t get sloshed herself – there are some games which strike a more suitable tone.
Of course, don’t choose any games that are too active; the mother-to-be isn’t exactly going to want to get up and jump around.
Refreshments
Every baby shower needs food, at least one of the guests is eating for two after all. However, consider the nibbles carefully. Firstly, find out if any of the guests have any dietary requirements and more importantly, do some research into what the expectant mother ought to be eating.
Does she have any food cravings (the familiar ‘pickle dipped in nutella’ perhaps?) or is she suffering from any food aversions because of her pregnancy? There’s also a whole array of foods mums-to-be aren’t supposed to eat, so get informed.
Once you know, then you can plan the spread – and spread around the responsibilities, too. You could even ask each guest to bring a dish with them. Oh, and don’t forget the cake!
You might find that the expectant mother is happy for others to drink alcohol but don’t just assume that to be the case. You want her to have fun and so need to make sure that she doesn’t feel left out. If you want to make the day alcohol free, look into fixing some non-alcoholic cocktails for the group, which can add an extra little sprinkle of stardust to proceedings.
Help With Thank You Notes
At a baby shower, there will be lots of gifts being given and it can be hard to keep track. This often means that a stressed mother-to-be has a lot to deal with when it comes to thank you notes. This is why you should help out and keep track of who gives which gifts.
You could then spend the day helping her to write the thank you notes, giving her the addresses of those who were on the guest list and information about which gift they bought her.
And with that, can we expect our invite in the post?
Sometimes, people’s understanding of the symptoms and obsessions of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be a little misplaced. ‘’Oh, I’m so OCD’’, a friend proclaims, as they put a plate in the dishwasher or rearrange a skew-whiff picture frame in a completely standard fashion.
Perhaps some of these misconceptions stem from a lack of understanding about various OCD subtypes. Nope, this thing certainly isn’t a catch-all term for a general preference for tidiness. Rather, it goes deeper and gets far more complex.
Indeed, it’s easy to assume that the disorder revolves solely around germophobia and cleanliness, but OCD is a very complex and multifaceted illness, and can cause obsessions around relationships, symmetry and order, and endless other hyper-fixations. As a result, sufferers can exhibit compulsive behaviour intended to reduce their anxiety and prevent their fears from becoming a reality, only to continue their cycle of anxiety all over again.
OCD is a subjective disorder, which is why it can take multiple forms, and there’s no definitive list of OCD subtypes. However, here are six of the most commonly observed OCD subtypes and their symptoms.
Checking OCD
Checking OCD involves compulsions regarding mental checklists, typically revolving around their loved ones or their own safety. That can range from checking if the door is locked to ensuring they turn the stove off. Patients with OCD perform these checks repeatedly, often feeling an all-consuming need to check, even if they just checked a few moments ago.
Obsessions in checking OCD can revolve around burglary, theft, fires, flooding, car accidents, reading and understanding, diseases, and upsetting loved ones. Here are a few commonly seen symptoms of checking OCD:
Checking whether all doors and windows are closed
Checking stoves, lights, and electronic appliances have been turned off
Checking taps have been turned off, even in workspaces
Repeatedly asking loved ones if you have upset them
Calling and texting family and friends to see if they are okay
Meticulously and extensively planning routes in advance
Re-reading sentences over and over again
Hyper analysing symptoms
Contamination OCD
Contamination OCD is one of the most common (and commonly stereotyped) subtypes of OCD, with obsessions revolving around germs and cleanliness. A person suffering from contamination OCD may fear that being contaminated by an external source could lead to sickness or death. Therefore, they may perform excessive cleaning rituals as their compulsion to prevent contamination.
Obsessions in contamination OCD can revolve around becoming sick, and compulsions may manifest as:
Washing hands excessively
Avoiding contact with strangers
Avoiding vaccinations and injections at all costs
Avoiding red blood-like stains
Excessive and extended tooth brushing and flossing
In rare cases, contamination OCD may also cause fear of mental contamination, such as infidelity, crime, and abuse. It can show up in symptoms like:
Avoiding anything that reminds them of their partner
Performing good deeds counteract internal uncleanliness
Repenting or asking God for forgiveness for their crimes
Avoiding reminders of a traumatic experience
Washing hands or body excessively to rid themselves of a dirty feeling
Religious or Scrupulosity OCD
Religious OCD, also known as scrupulosity, is one of the oldest recorded subtypes of OCD, creating intense fear of breaking religious rules and upsetting God and religious authorities. Their compulsions can revolve around living sin or performing sinful acts, prayers being recited incorrectly, unholy or blasphemous thoughts, and similar actions.
Here’s how religious OCD can manifest:
Excessive prayer to repent for their sins
Spending too much time in holy places
Excessively reciting prayers for correction
Analysing every single sentence of the prayer
Reading religious texts excessively
Looking for reassurance from friends and family
Constantly asking, “Did I commit a sin?”
Symmetry & Ordering OCD
Symmetry and order OCD is another common subtype, causing the patients to feel anxious about perfectionism, especially in visual forms. Typically, they feel the need to achieve perfect symmetry and order, especially in their living spaces. Otherwise, they may feel highly anxious and like something catastrophic may happen.
Patients with symmetry and ordering OCD typically have compulsions surrounding items or objects that are disorderly or uneven, asymmetrical, or unbalanced. Their symptoms may manifest in ways like:
Rearranging or evening out the items when they become disorderly
Stopping people from tampering with perfectly ordered items
Monitoring items to ensure their symmetry
Holding everything with two hands to ensure balance
Checking that objects are perfectly balanced on flat surfaces
Walking everywhere with feet planted in a particular position
Magical Thinking OCD
Magical thinking OCD is a subtype of the disorder, but all OCD patients may suffer through its compulsions. Often considered ‘superstitious’ behaviour, magical thinking OCD causes patients to believe specific actions can protect themselves or their loved ones from catastrophes.
Their compulsions revolve around superstitions like stepping on cracks, certain days of the week, and specific colours, with symptoms like:
Staying home in fear of stepping on a crack accidentally
Reciting a prayer or mantra after unintentionally stepping on a crack
Staying at home on a specific day to prevent accidents
Asking and advising loved ones not to wear a particular colour
Reciting a prayer or mantra after seeing a certain number
Relationship OCD
Relationship OCD involves intrusive or upsetting thoughts about one’s partner, causing stress and anxiety and leading to harmful compulsive behaviour. This subtype of OCD typically shows up in early adulthood, especially in romantic relationships. It can cause the patient to obsess over whether they’re with the right person, taking the right steps (marriage, children, etc.), or if their partner is faithful.
Here are a few compulsions seen in patients with relationship OCD:
Overanalysing time spent with your partner
Trying to determine for sure if you and your partner are true ‘soulmates.’
Comparing your previous relationships to your current one
Since OCD is a subjective mental disorder, there is no one-size-fits-all way to describe it or exact symptoms to categorise it. OCD has many subtypes with various fixations, making the diagnosis and treatment somewhat complicated.
It’s also worth noting that the list mentioned above is not a comprehensive guide on OCD subtypes, as other unmentioned subtypes are less talked about, such as false memory OCD, maternal OCD, sensorimotor OCD, and more.
Should you be suffering and are keen to get help, it’s sensible to first speak to your GP, who can then refer you to a specialist, whether that’s a therapist, clinical social worker, or psychiatric nurse or other qualified health professional, or recommend the appropriate treatment, which may involve medication.
*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified mental health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*
Every horse racing year contains a whole host of top class horse racing events full of spectacle, socialising and splurging. Many of those meetings date back for hundreds of years and are amongst the oldest organised sporting occasions in the world. From the rolling hills of Epsom Downs to the challenging fences of Aintree, these prestigious events draw crowds in their hundreds of thousands, united by their passion for the sport of kings.
2026 is going to be very special with another set of unforgettable runnings. Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast, a casual observer drawn in by the pageantry and excitement, or simply a lover of horses, the year ahead promises drama, triumph and heartbreak in equal measure. The world’s finest thoroughbreds will compete for glory and substantial prize money, whilst the betting industry gears up for some of its busiest days of the year. Here is just a taste of what racegoers can look forward to.
The Cheltenham Festival
Held across four days in March, the Cheltenham Festival is the most important meeting in the National Hunt calendar. It’s also one of the most well-attended events and it provides something of a gateway to a spectacular spring and summer of sport.
There are a number of top class Grade One races across the festival, but the most important of these is the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Traditionally held on the final day, the Gold Cup was first contested in 1924 and many of the biggest names in the sport have lifted the trophy. It’s a testing run with many fences to jump along three miles, two furlongs and 70 yards of the Cheltenham course.
In 2026, the Cheltenham Festival will run from Tuesday 10th March to Friday 13th March. The atmosphere at Prestbury Park is electric throughout the week, with roars echoing around the amphitheatre-like course as punters cheer home their fancies. The festival attracts over 260,000 spectators across the four days, making it one of the largest sporting gatherings in Britain. Beyond the Gold Cup, races such as the Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase and Stayers’ Hurdle draw the finest horses from Britain and Ireland, ensuring fierce competition and unforgettable moments.
Aintree’s Grand National has to be the most spectacular of all the race meetings in the UK. This is a real test of skill and endurance with horses having to negotiate no fewer than 30 fences across four miles and 514 yards of the course.
The Grand National is another historic horse race and the first edition was run way back in 1839. It is also one of the busiest days in the calendar for the horse racing betting industry. This is a time when serious bettors are joined by casual punters who may be staking their one bet of the year.
Horse racing betting markets are made available months in advance of the meeting, and this is a time when the industry is at its most competitive with excellent odds and a few promotions. The drama and thrills supplied by the race is behind this particular phenomenon.
The Grand National will take place on Saturday 4th April 2026, returning to its traditional first Saturday in April slot. The race has become synonymous with extraordinary tales of triumph and heartbreak, with legendary horses like Red Rum, who won the race three times in the 1970s, forever etched in racing folklore. The famous fences—including Becher’s Brook, The Chair and the Canal Turn—present unique challenges that test both horse and jockey to their limits. The three-day Grand National meeting also features the Grand Sefton Chase and Aintree Hurdle, ensuring quality racing throughout the festival.
The Melbourne Cup
Whilst the UK hosts many of the biggest races on the calendar, it doesn’t have a monopoly on the top meetings. Australia is another country where the sport has a huge following and the highlight of their racing year is the Melbourne Cup.
The significant prize purse on offer makes this the richest two mile handicap in the world and it’s one of the most lucrative races of any kind. The Melbourne Cup was first run in 1861 and it’s known in the present day as the Race that Stops a Nation.
The Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne is the destination as the race produces the highlight of Victoria’s Spring Carnival. Expect more thrills when the Melbourne Cup returns on Tuesday 3rd November 2026. Held on the first Tuesday in November, the race has become a public holiday in Melbourne, with offices and schools closing so everyone can watch this iconic event.
The carnival atmosphere extends beyond the track, with fashion competitions, celebrity appearances and lavish hospitality making it as much a social occasion as a sporting one. International horses frequently compete, adding a global dimension to the race, and winners such as Makybe Diva, who claimed an unprecedented three consecutive victories from 2003 to 2005, have achieved legendary status.
The Kentucky Derby
It’s over to America now for one of the most highly anticipated events on the horse racing calendar. First held in 1875, this must be an exceptional race because it has two nicknames.
The Run for the Roses or, the Fastest Two Minutes in Sport is a ten furlong sprint which has given us some memorable winners such as Secretariat in 1973 and American Pharoah in 2015.
It’s a stunning two minutes of sprinting with the 2026 edition of the Kentucky Derby being held on Saturday 2nd May. Held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, the race is steeped in tradition, from the singing of ‘My Old Kentucky Home’ to the draping of a garland of 554 red roses over the winning horse. The Derby kicks off the American Triple Crown series, followed by the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, with only 13 horses having won all three races in history. The event attracts over 150,000 spectators, making it one of the largest single-day sporting events in the United States, and the accompanying festivities—including mint juleps and elaborate hats—have made it a cultural institution.
This, in the opinion of most turf enthusiasts and those who bet on horse racing, is the most important flat race on the calendar. The Epsom Derby is also the oldest race on this list with records confirming that the first ever running took place in 1780.
The Derby is a race for thoroughbred three-year-olds and the list of previous winners reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of horse racing. Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Benny the Dip and Shergar have all claimed the trophy.
It’s a short event, held over one mile, four furlongs and six yards, but this is an undulating surface and a true test for the runners. In 2026, the Epsom Derby will take place on Saturday 6th June. The unique topography of Epsom Downs, with its sweeping descent to Tattenham Corner followed by a gruelling uphill finish, ensures that only the most balanced and talented horses can triumph. The Derby is the middle leg of the English Triple Crown—following the 2000 Guineas and preceding the St Leger—though the feat has been achieved only 15 times in history. The race day forms the centrepiece of the Derby Festival, a two-day celebration that also features the Oaks, the fillies’ equivalent, run the day before.
The Best Of The Rest
These are just five of the biggest races to look forward to in 2026. Aside from these renewals, there are a host of other highly anticipated Group Ones on the way over the next 12 months. Racegoers should also look out for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the St Leger, the Oaks, Royal Ascot, the World Cup in Dubai, and the Belmont Stakes to name just a few.
It will be another thrilling year with all of these meetings hopefully providing a major highlight.
Whether you’ve had your vehicle for many, many years or you’ve just picked up a new whip, your car says a lot about you. The make, model, year, and style of your headlights can give other drivers and passers-by a little more insight into your personality.
While many drivers are more than happy and content with their car, others want to make adjustments to bring it up to their liking. Customising your car can not only boost your vehicle’s aesthetic appeal, but doing so can improve performance, increase safety features, and potentially boost its value should there come a point where you’re ready to sell.
Before you look into customising your car, there are some important factors to consider so you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into. Let’s explore further…
It Can Be Costly
If you’ve already shelled out a significant outlay on a vehicle, you may not have loads left in your budget for personalising and modifying. What’s more, there could be hidden costs attached with customising your car. For instance, if you’ve got your engine modified, you may need to swap to premium fuel. Should you install wider tyres, this can impact fuel consumption, meaning you would need to refill more frequently.
Whatever alterations you decide on, you need to be aware that making changes to your car can prove incredibly expensive. The best place to start is by establishing a budget. This will help you stick within your means and stop you from overspending. Once you’ve set aside cash for personalising your vehicle, you can look at modifications that align with your budget.
Try not to cut corners during this process. If you go for the cheapest provider to make alterations, this could leave you with a subpar result. The cost of driving a car can already be very expensive for some. This means you do not want to spend much out of your pocket only to make your car look nice.
Image by Group4 Studio via Canva
There Will Be Risks Attached
While some modifications can actually make your vehicle safer, there are others that can be pretty dangerous. Unfortunately, there are always risks of an improper installation or a faulty part, and either of these could put you in serious danger when on the road. While adding seat covers or installing LED floor lights isn’t going to compromise your safety, changing the steering wheel, gearstick or pedals can be risky.
Before getting any customisation done, especially electrical alterations, it’s your duty to pick reputable companies to carry out the work. Make sure to check out ratings and reviews before making a decision.
Never go for the cheapest provider on the market. This is because they may not have the experience and expertise to do a good job. Sure, you may be left with seat covers that don’t look the best. However, this won’t impact your health and safety, whereas modifications to your steering wheel can be incredibly costly to rectify if the work isn’t up to scratch.
Whatever type of changes you wish to make to your car, it’s always best to find a reliable mechanic in your area to carry out work. They can provide expert advice on what your options are and modifications that can put you and others in danger. You might be better off investing in these essential pieces of car care equipment, instead.
Think About the Future
When you factor in how costly some car personalisation options can be, it’s important to think about the future and whether you’ll be happy with your alterations months and years down the line. You don’t want to fork out all that money on making changes to find you’re not satisfied and don’t feel comfortable in your vehicle.
There are some ways to personalise your car that don’t involve such wholesale changes or long-term commitments, such as installing private number plates. Once you have an idea in mind for what you’re after, check on a personalised number plate database like Click4Reg or the government’s official ‘buy a personalised number plate’ platform via the DVLA to see if it’s available and within the UK’s legal parameters.
Warranty Could Be Void
Perhaps you may not need to worry about the possibility of your warranty being void for things like a body modification, but you can run into issues if you’re altering your car’s performance, via the vehicle’s engine or manipulating its electrical components. Even if a related part is impaired, your car manufacturer will likely blame the damage on modifications. This could see your warranty claim being denied.
It’s in your best interests to steer clear of any internal modifications if your car is under warranty. The last thing you want to do is make changes to your car to find you are not covered. Should you be involved in a car accident and find your warranty isn’t valid, you could be in all kinds of trouble that can be financially crippling.
Will Affect Any Potential Resale
Let’s be honest, there comes a point for every driver when they’re ready for a change of car. If you’ve grown tired of your vehicle and want to upgrade to something better, you need to be fully aware of how personalising and modifying your car can affect its resale value. You’ll want to get a good asking price for your car but may soon realise that your personalising efforts haven’t paid off in the long run.
Although it isn’t always the case, some modifications can lower the resale value, which could see you not make any profit off your vehicle. The reason for this is simple. You may make modifications to align with your personal taste but find many other drivers don’t share the same views!
If you’re serious about personalising your car, try and think of the bigger picture and how others view your car. Taking the minimalistic approach can give your car a new lease of life while looking pleasing to the eye when it comes to selling.
Know The Legalities
Most importantly of all, you need to be aware of the legalities linked with car modification and personalisation. There are some rules on what you can and cannot do to a vehicle. If you want to alter your car’s headlights, they must be coloured white or yellow. Your rear lights must be red. If you opt for any other colour, this is against the law. Neon lights are banned as they increase the risk of distracted driving.
For those who like the idea of tinted windows, while they provide many positives, it’s illegal to have a tinted windscreen that does not allow at least 75% of light through. Your front side windows must also let at least 70% of light through. Understanding the legalities of personalising your car will mean you do everything above board and not get into legal trouble.
The Bottom Line
There are a number of reasons why car owners personalise their vehicle. If you’re ready to follow suit and make some changes to your own, you need to be fully aware of the impact your modifications can have, both in terms of safety and resale value.
Whether you’re focusing on the interior, exterior, or a bit of both, make sure you’ve done your full research into the best ways to personalise your car. Remember; many of these changes cannot be reversed. This means you need to have a serious think about what is going to enhance your car or hinder its performance.
Speaking of hindered performance, check out this guide on what to do when your car breaks down. Next time you’re broken down at the side of the road, you won’t regret this moment of inquisitiveness.
When you’re looking for love later in life, it can be challenging to know where to start, especially if you have recently come out of a long-term marriage or relationship. Whether it’s because of an amicable split, a difficult divorce, or loss, reclaiming your life as a senior single can be a daunting experience.
Furthermore, services catering to elders and widows, who have suffered a loss have been gaining an increased amount of traction recently. However, getting your confidence back is the key to successful dating as a senior, and in our guide, we’ll help you with everything you need to know in order to find your perfect match.
Benefits Of Senior Dating
Many people assume that dating when you’re over 60 will be more difficult, but most seniors find it can be more straightforward than dating in your 20s. The reason senior dating is simpler is due to the fact that most people have a firmer grip on their sense of identity and what interests them as well as a history of past relationships to draw on, which provides the perfect foundation for knowing what they want from a potential partner.
As a mature person interested in finding new love or companionship, there is typically more choice in partners and, in today’s modern world, there are more ways than ever before for how and where to meet people.
Meeting People Online
As we mentioned already, there are more ways than ever to meet people in today’s modern world, and this is due to the technological advancements that also let you shop, bank, and work online. In the past, online dating was often seen as the last resort when traditional methods didn’t work, whereas it is now the go-to method to connect you with thousands in your immediate area, even when it comes to over 60 or 70. With increasing life expectancies more and more British singles over 80 have been taking an interest in online dating services.
The benefit of online dating is the fact that it puts all the power in your hands, and with so many people online, you are free to browse, choose who you contact, and decide who to ignore. Many online dating sites are free to use and only expect login details, a short biography, a location, and photos in order to get started. Other sites require you to pay a subscription fee and provide more information about yourself, such as a questionnaire, to help tailor your search.
Choosing The Right Dating Site
When you’re looking to start dating again, it’s crucial that you find a dating site that is right for you, and most seniors prefer to sign up to services that are tailored specifically for a mature audience in order to match with like-minded people in a similar age bracket. Other people prefer to focus on shared interests rather than finding people of a similar age and find they enjoy the company of people who share their opinions on politics or world affairs and don’t mind whether they are older or younger than them.
With so many dating websites available, it can be overwhelming when you’re looking for the perfect match, which is where DatingHive comes in handy. DatingHive compares the dating sites available to let you find the site that offers what you’re looking for, and there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a generic website or one tailored to senior dating in the UK.
Once you’ve found the right matchmaking service or app for you, you’ll need to create a profile to reflect your personality, world view, and interests. However, try not to list your characteristics or interests; instead, speak about the kind of person you are to give the reader a better idea of who might compliment you and your life.
When your profile is ready, don’t be afraid to respond to messages or send out your own to get to know people and remember you don’t have to keep things online, you can meet up for actual dates in restaurants or museums. Finally, in order to complete your dating profile, it’s imperative to make sure that the photos you provide are clear and recent for the best chance of success finding a dating match.
Have A Summer Getaway
If you’re having trouble connecting to people online or in-person, a great way to get back into the dating groove is by taking a summer getaway, as it’s the perfect environment to strike up a romance. Furthermore, holidaying when single offers you the opportunity to dictate your own travel itinerary, which will provide you with the perfect chance to tick off bucket-list experiences you’ve always dreamt about.
There may be a part of the world that you’ve always wanted to visit but never had the chance to go; consider adding some friends to your trip to help with any anxieties you may have about meeting people or dive in solo while signing up for activities that will let you meet people. Travelling alone can sometimes be a little daunting, but it’s the ideal way to meet new people who could become friends for life or new romantic partners.
Whether you’re getting down on one knee, shouting your love from the rooftops, or making a mature, mutual decision, proposing to your partner has to be up there with one of the most important and memorable moments of your life.
Planning that proposal, then, can be as exciting as it is daunting, with many people wanting the big moment to reflect their relationship and their unique definition of love, marriage and the rest. Choosing a gorgeous location, the moment to do it, the script you’ll follow (or the spontaneity you’ll rely on), and the ring itself are all key decisions that have to be made.
If you’re feeling the weight of it all, read on to gather some inspiration from fellow Brits before popping the question.
The Ring
There are many factors that can impact on both the romanticism and practicality of your proposal, but central to it all is the ring. It’s arguably the aspect of the proposal that people have the most anxiety about, and it’s something you want to get just right.
When choosing your engagement ring, remember the 4Cs (colour, clarity, carat, and cut) and take your partner’s personality and style into account. Don’t be distracted by trends; this is something your partner will wear for the rest of their life, so it has to have lasting meaning.
For those who don’t want to spend their monthly pay cheque on the ring (a post-pandemic engagement trend of thrift is fast gaining traction), remember that size only matters if it’s important to your fiancé – and there’s definitely an innuendo in there somewhere, if only we could find it.
Search for something special and with unique symbolism to the two of you, investigate where the stone came from, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box with design.
It can be daunting to get all this right, but with research by engagement ring specialists F.Hinds finding that only 17% of Brits would be put off a proposal if there was no ring, the pressure isn’t perhaps quite as heavy-going as we previously thought. You could, instead, go ring-shopping together, which is rather romantic and respectful in its own way, don’t you think?
A Shared Or Private Moment?
Depending on who you are as individual people and as a couple, you need to decide whether to pop the question in front of loved ones or with just the two of you present. Public proposals can range from getting down on one knee at a family BBQ (just no) or doing it in a crowded restaurant, all the way to popping the question at a huge football match with thousands of onlookers. It’s perfect for couples who enjoy being the centre of attention and prefer big displays of affection, but it’s certainly not for everyone.
In fact, it’s not for that many people; before you plan a public proposal, it might be helpful to know that 74% of Brits would be put off if their partner proposed to them in public. 89% of residents in Belfast would also turn down public proposals, whilst 36% of Brits admitted that a professional photographer being there would also put them off.
It’s also crucial to know where your partner stands in the relationship and if they are actually ready and willing to get engaged in the first place. If you’re not sure how you feel about getting engaged, ask yourself whether you’re afraid to visualise your future with your partner, whether you feel your most comfortable around them, if your communication is effective and if you’ve survived rough spots and come out stronger.
Timing is really important. In fact, 47% of Brits said that being proposed to too early would make them reconsider the relationship. Every relationship is different, so have fun with your proposal and make it an everlasting memory.
Keep Those Nerves Under Control
You want to enjoy this special moment as much as your partner, but so many proposals, however well planned or coordinated, are ruined by the nerves of the proposer. Make sure you keep those nerves under control so the whole occasion goes as effortlessly as possible.
Though the virtues of Dutch courage are extolled by some, you don’t want to risk being sloppy or losing your balance on one knee; you want to remember this, after all! Instead, stay smooth and suave and save the champers for after you’ve popped the question, and learn a few simple breathing exercises to keep you cool under pressure.
Good luck, and we hope to receive our wedding invitation soon!
The ketogenic diet has become an increasingly mainstream way to potentially lose weight. A low carb, high-fat diet, the keto (for short) diet shares similarities with the Atkins in that the plan’s massive reduction in carb intake aims to put the dieter’s body into a state of ‘ketosis’ – a metabolic state where the body becomes more efficient at burning fat.
Of course, as with any form of extreme change to a more conventional way of eating, the keto diet comes with risks, and certainly isn’t a diet to try as an experiment. Rather, it should only be undertaken under the supervision of a medical expert or nutritionist.
In order to see potential results in weight management terms, your nutritionist may recommend that you include the following foods in your diet…
Eggs
One of the best breakfasts for a keto dieter is eggs, which can be prepared in many ways and are a nutrition powerhouse; naturally low in carbs, and packed with protein, essential fatty acids, and nutrients.
Whether you like them scrambled, fried, or boiled, eggs can be a part of just about any meal. You’ll have to reconsider the usual toast you have alongside your eggs, though, as there’s around 20g of carbohydrates in a single white slice. Fortunately, keto-friendly bread does exist, and isn’t half bad when slathered with butter!
Though it’s possible to do a keto diet as a vegetarian or vegan, it’s pretty tough to adopt to the parameters of a well-rounded keto meal plan without meat.
In an eating plan focused heavily on protein and high fat foods, some of the most appropriate meat to include in your diet include rib-eye steak, pork belly, lamb chops, chicken thighs (skin on, naturally) and, basically, any other type of meat we’re usually told to swerve due its high-fat content, excess of skin, and marbling.
Offal is also a great option for those on a keto diet, as it’s nutrient-rich, boasts plenty of healthy fats, such as omega-3, and contains no (or very few) carbs at all. It’s also affordable, which is very welcome right now, with belts tightening across the country.
Eating fish and other types of seafood is a great way to amp up your protein intake while on the ketogenic diet. Seafood is also a good source of omega-three fatty acids, which are beneficial for your health, and this is particularly true when considering oily fish; salmon, tuna, sardines, and other fish are all excellent seafood choices for the keto diet.
You can also eat shrimp, crab, and lobster on the keto diet. Be sure to avoid seafood that is battered or breaded, as this will add carbs to your meal.
When choosing seafood, opt for fresh, wild-caught whenever possible. Canned seafood can be a good option as well, but make sure to check the nutrition label to ensure that there are no added sugars or carbs.
Don’t forget to add lots of dairy to your keto diet. Dairy products are a great source of fat and protein, making them perfect for the keto diet. Choose full-fat dairy products whenever possible, as they are higher in fat and lower in carbs.
For example, certain types of cheese, like mozzarella and cream cheese, for instance, are very low in carbs, while other cheeses like cheddar and Swiss have a little more. Always check the packet!
Vegetables & Greens
It’s essential to eat various vegetables while on this program, to ensure you’re getting enough nutrition (and deliciousness) from your diet.
These veggies contain essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and potassium. They also contain fibre which helps with bowel movements and digestion (constipation is a problem for those on a keto diet).
Leafy greens, whether that’s spinach, kale, swiss chard, or whatever else is looking good at the market, are a particularly essential addition to the mix, as they are super-nutritious. Greens are low in carbs but high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re also a great source of fibre. Eat them cooked or raw, whichever way you prefer.
You’ll also want to incorporate various nuts and seeds into your diet. These are great sources of healthy fats, protein, and fibre, and are particularly crucial if you’re of a vegetarian or vegan persuasion and considering a keto diet.
Nuts, seeds, and nut butter are popular sources of healthy fats and proteins for many vegans. They also contain fibre, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, and vitamin E, as well as antioxidants, and can replace the mouthfeel of dairy products in a dinner, which can be really useful for eking maximum enjoyment from your eating.
Of course, nuts and seeds are also incredibly versatile, bringing texture and flavour in spades, and can be used in a huge variety of different dishes and cuisines. Some of our favourite nuts and seeds include:
Cooking with fats like coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and grass-fed butter can help add variety and nutrition to your diet. These healthy fats are a great source of energy and can help you feel fuller for longer. Including these in your diet can also help increase your intake of antioxidants and vitamins.
When it comes to cooking with so-called healthy fats, it’s important to choose a quality product. Look for oils that are cold-pressed, unrefined, and organic. You should also avoid processed fats like margarine, shortening, and hydrogenated oils, which, quite frankly, bring nothing to the party.
Artificial Sweeteners
Instead of using sugar, many people on the ketogenic diet will use artificial sweeteners. While there are some artificial sweeteners that are safe to consume, others can actually kick you out of ketosis. As a general rule of thumb, avoid artificial sweeteners that contain maltodextrin and dextrose, as these can raise your blood sugar levels.
The Bottom Line
The keto diet is an increasingly visible way for some folk, under the proper medical supervision, to attempt to manage their weight. That said, it should be noted once again that this type of diet should never be attempted without first consulting a medical professional.
There are few better feelings than cosying up in a luxury hotel during your ski holiday. While schussing with abandon is of course the main attraction, the allure of relaxing by a roaring fire and indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments is equally compelling. The most luxurious hotels also offer access to award-winning restaurants and a variety of entertainment options, making your ski holiday a truly memorable experience far beyond the slopes.
But how do you find the most verifiably luxurious hotels for your ski holiday? It largely depends on your preferred skiing destination. The French and Swiss Alps are popular choices, renowned for their opulent hotel resorts. Across the Atlantic, Colorado and the Rocky Mountains also boast numerous luxurious options.
With so many incredible skiing locations to choose from, holidaymakers are truly spoiled for choice. To help you decide, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the top luxury hotels for your next skiing holiday. Whether you’re seeking opulent dining areas, lavish spas, or magnificent casino floors, we’ve got something for everyone.
The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado, USA
Nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain, The Little Nell is a five-star, five-diamond hotel that epitomises luxury and sophistication in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its ski-in, ski-out access, this iconic hotel offers unparalleled convenience for ski enthusiasts looking to hit the slopes of one of the most famous ski destinations in the world.
The Little Nell boasts 92 spacious guest rooms, including 11 suites and three signature suites, each designed with a contemporary alpine aesthetic. Guests can enjoy breathtaking mountain views, cozy fireplaces, and plush furnishings that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The hotel’s renowned concierge service ensures that every need is met, from arranging private ski lessons to securing reservations at Aspen’s top restaurants.
After a day on the slopes, guests can unwind at the hotel’s luxurious spa, which offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate and relax. The Little Nell is also home to Element 47, a Forbes Five-Star restaurant that celebrates locally sourced ingredients and offers an extensive wine list curated by master sommeliers. For a more casual dining experience, Ajax Tavern provides a lively après-ski scene with its famous truffle fries and burgers.
Four Seasons Hotel, Megeve, France
Nestled in the picturesque French Alps, the Four Seasons Hotel Megeve is emblematic of alpine elegance, featuring numerous selling points that keep visitors returning year after year. The beautiful rooms offer a perfect blend between cosiness and grandeur, with panoramic views over the slopes complementing the beautiful interiors.
Guests have full access to an expansive spa typical of the Four Seasons Hotel & Resorts portfolio, with steam rooms, massage parlours, and more. There’s also a Michelin Star restaurant on-site to enjoy. Le 1920 is a homage to classic French cuisine, with celebrated chef Anne-Sophie Pic designing a menu with full appreciation for the array of local Alpine ingredients.
The Four Seasons Hotel Megeve also offers access to Casino Barriere, a huge and sophisticated casino popular with visitors. From blackjack to poker and roulette, there’s something on offer for all types of player.
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland
An iconic symbol of luxury, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St. Moritz is a world-renowned destination for ski enthusiasts and general up-market holiday lovers. Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps and opened way back in 1896, the hotel offers panoramic views of Lake St. Moritz and direct access to the Corviglia scopes.
Badrutt’s Palace is emblematic of the affluent and luxurious Alpine resorts of the late 19th century, with 157 elegant rooms and suites blending traditional Swiss charm with cutting-edge entertainment and comfort technology. The Palace Wellness spa boasts state-of-the-art facilities, so if the king-sized baths and shower rooms in the hotel rooms aren’t enough, you’ll have access to top-tier saunas, jacuzzis, and more.
Guests can also indulge in Michelin-starred dining at Igniv by Andreas Caminada, an imaginative yet traditional restaurant by the legendary Swiss chef that has garnered two Michelin stars for its exceptional cuisine—the perfect winter counterpoint to your summer Saint Tropez fine dining adventure. Elsewhere, the King’s Social House has a legendary aprés-ski scene and is famed as Switzerland’s oldest nightclub.
The Chedi, Andermatt, Switzerland
The Chedi, one of the best contemporary spa resorts in Switzerland according to Forbes, has called the pristine Swiss village of Andermatt home since 2013. It’s one of the newest luxury skiing hotels on the block but has already made quite the splash with its functional yet extravagant approach. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Gemsstock Mountain, the hotel offers ski-in, ski-out access and over 120 km of some of the best ski trails in Europe.
With 123 luxurious rooms to choose from, The Chedi has options for various types of holidaymakers, from families to newly-wed couples. Each one has a fireplace and a deep soaking tub, offering skiers an instant respite from the cold Alpine weather. But this is just the start, with the massive hotel complex also offering access to numerous other highlights.
Take the world-renowned 2,400 m² spa, for example. Guests get access to a picturesque heated outdoor pool, various saunas, massage rooms, a dedicated hydrotherapy area, and more. After relaxing, The Chedi offers a hand-curated wine and cigar library, alongside gourmet dining at The Japanese—a double Michelin-starred restaurant serving authentic Japanese cuisine.
Higashiyama Niseko Village, Hokkaido, Japan
For those seeking a far flung adventure in Japan’s premier ski destination, Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, this exclusive retreat provides ski-in, ski-out access to the renowned powder snow of Niseko, one of the world’s top ski destinations.
Higashiyama Niseko Village features 50 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of Mount Yotei or the surrounding Annupuri ranges. The interiors blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy amenities such as private onsen baths, cozy fireplaces, and spacious living areas that provide the perfect sanctuary after a day on the slopes.
Yōtei-zan, Niseko, Abuta-Gun, Japan
The resort’s culinary offerings are equally impressive, with Yukibana serving a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine using the finest local ingredients. Sushi Nagi offers an intimate dining experience with expertly crafted sushi and sashimi, while Ume Lounge provides a relaxed setting for après-ski cocktails and light bites.
Higashiyama Niseko Village also boasts a world-class spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments inspired by Japanese wellness traditions. The spa features private onsen baths, a sauna, and a relaxation lounge, ensuring a rejuvenating experience that complements the physical demands of skiing.
For those looking to explore beyond the slopes, the resort offers a variety of activities, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy classes. The dedicated concierge team is on hand to curate personalized itineraries, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is tailored to your preferences.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape in the heart of the Rocky Mountains or Far Eastern adventure in Japan’s premier ski destination, these hotels offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and world-class amenities for an unforgettable ski holiday.
It’s a question as old as time itself; just how do you keep the spark alive in a long marriage? Though it’s often asked, and it can be difficult to answer. Everyone ages differently. Some may stay young at heart while others grow older and wiser with each day. As people age, marriage changes too, and not always for the better.
With divorce rates at their highest for ten years and only predicted to rise further, never has it felt more important to be proactive about keeping the love, intimacy and passion alive in your relationship. Here’s how to bring new passion into your marital life as you age.
Make Time For Your Spouse, Each & Every Day
Your spouse deserves the time you dedicate to your marriage, especially as the years pass. One of the most important things couples can do in order to keep their marriage healthy is making sure they have daily ‘dates’ with each other.
You may feel like you already spend enough time together or that it’s more important for you to get chores done. But don’t forget about how much time should be devoted just for talking and hanging out.
Even if all you do is sit on the couch next to one another while watching TV, make sure they know they matters by giving them an hour (or at least half an hour) each day when nothing takes priority over spending some quality time together.
Ask them how they feel, or talk to them about what you did that day. You don’t have to do anything big or exciting, but make sure your spouse knows they’re important and matters every single day. It doesn’t matter how many years pass, marriage is a commitment to each other for life.
Do Something Spontaneous
One of the best ways to ignite a spark is by doing something that surprises your partner. Cook them their favourite meal, make them feel like a million dollars, whisk them off on a surprise holiday or shopping trip, or even arrange for them to do something that they love doing (with you, of course). Doing something spontaneous to show them how much you love and care for them. This usually prompts them to do something for you too, and it becomes a cycle of showing your spouse how much they really mean to you.
Surprises can certainly be hard to organise when you’re both spending so much time in such close proximity, but with a little inventiveness and ‘planned spontaneity’, it can be done.
Nowhere is this truer than the bedroom; setting aside times to have sex each day, dressing up for one another, even surprising your partner by wearing a matching red lingerie set underneath your work clothes (hey, we got rather specific there, pretty quickly!), you can keep that element of surprise and spontaneity alive.
While sex is a very important part of a relationship, it’s not everything. Sometimes keeping things physical by simply hugging and kissing more often, holding hands while watching TV and offering the occasional back rub can make them feel loved. More often than not, a physical act like a back rub leads on to sexual relations which, as you know, most definitely keeps the spark alive in your relationship.
Keep Things Fresh By Trying New Things Together
No matter how old you are, marriage is always about keeping things fresh. It’s important to keep an open mind and try new activities together in order to stay interested in each other, as well as staying healthy with the physical activity of it all! Try some fun date ideas like hiking or going on a picnic at your local park; these are great ways for you both to get out there and enjoy yourselves.
Here’s a list of ideas you could try out:
A picnic
Take up running together, or any other sport
Road trip
Cook your favorite meal and serve it by candlelight
Go on a hike or to the beach
Take up rock climbing, white water rafting, paintball
Have Date Nights
Yes, we realise that we already mentioned date nights at the top of the article, but it’s a point that bears repeating; making time for each other helps to keep the spark alive and make you both feel like newlyweds again.
Date nights are not only fun but they also allow you to reconnect with each other emotionally, spiritually, and physically. You can talk about anything that is going on in your lives or the world around you during date night without distractions from children or work issues. No one has ever regretted having regular date nights!
Remembering what drew you together in the first place, when butterflies fluttered in your tummy and your heart raced whenever you were close, can be a great way to rekindle a romance that is in danger of becoming stale.
For a meaningful date night idea, why not revisit the scene of your first meet, or the place where you first said ‘I love you’, or even where you first made love, in doing so reconnecting with that first frisson of attraction between you. Sounds pretty romantic to us!
All that time in each other’s company, without extracurricular activities or engagement with friends, family and colleagues, has likely left your relationship feeling somewhat insular. We all need an outlet away from our partner from time to time, to nurture that other side of our personality. Do make sure, then, that you’re not neglecting your friends (and in turn, your individuality) during this difficult time, as a lack of independence, or even an increase in co-dependence, may, in fact, be making matters more fraught.
Take the time to focus on your own hobbies and interests, too, to ensure you retain that individuality which first so appealed to your partner. Doing so will equip you with the tools to deal with the challenges which lie ahead on your own terms, rather than via an over-reliance on your partner. Your relationship will be stronger for it, trust us!
Pasta lovers, rejoice! World Pasta Day is just around the corner (October 25th). If you’re in any doubt about how to celebrate this year, may we suggest a steaming bowl of the good stuff? Victoria’s popular Venetian-Italian eatery TOZI Restaurant & Bar has revealed the recipe for one of its delicious pasta dishes, the Buffalo Ricotta Ravioli with Black Truffle. Try it out yourself by making it at home … or swing by TOZI and order one from its extensive menu of delicious small plates. Buonissimo!
FOR THE DOUGH
500g plain soft flour
5 eggs
5ml olive oil
FOR THE FILLING
250g buffalo ricotta
20g grated parmesan
Salt & pepper
TO SERVE
300ml vegetable stock
A knob of unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
A sprinkling of grated black truffle
METHOD
Place the flour in the mixing machine (or use a large bowl with a hand whisk); add the eggs and the olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together. The dough should be firm and dry.
Remove the dough from the bowl, cover it with cling film and let it rest in the fridge for few hours.
Place the ricotta in a chinoise colander and let it drain for 24h. Once ready, mix it with the parmesan, salt & pepper.
Fill a piping bag with the mixture and leave in the fridge until ready to use.
Stretch out the pasta dough (ideally using a pasta machine) until 1mm thick.
Dampen the surface of the pasta sheet with cold water; lay a knob of ricotta filling the size of a small walnut in the middle of the sheet 5cm apart from each other.
Fold the pasta in half and press out all the air around the filling.
With an 8cm pasta cutter ring cut the shapes in to half circles.
Cook the ravioli in salted boiling water for 3 minutes. In the meantime bring to boil some vegetable stock, add a pinch of salt and some butter. Cook down until creamy.
Drain the ravioli and add them to the buttery sauce.
You know what they say, that home is where the heart is? But if that heart is clogged by clutter, darkened by bad lighting and life choices, and its beat is arrhythmic rather than dependable, it can lead to a home that lacks a warm welcome.
Whilst our homes are, of course, firstly functional, providing shelter and somewhere to rest, they are also a place where individuality and self-expression can be nurtured.
In autumn, as the nights draw in and the temperature drops, domestic self-care feels more important than ever, and this is certainly true in 2022, with global turmoil insistent and oppressive, and temptation to hibernate until spring ever-present.
Instead, take solace in your sanctuary this season; here’s how to make your home a cosy place of comfort this autumn in 5 simple steps.
Let There Be Natural Light
Well-lit, whether that’s artificial or natural, spaces are hugely important to the overall running of the household, sure, but they also contribute a remarkable amount to your overall wellbeing at home, particularly as the evenings (and eventually afternoons) get darker, and you want to savour every moment of sunshine.
Natural light, in particular, provides some serious health benefits, boosting Vitamin D, alleviating the symptoms of seasonal depression, improving sleep and so much more.
Dark and closed-off spaces can often feel overwhelming and intrusive, leaving you yearning for daylight and vast expanses of outdoor space (and this is not what you want when you are relaxing indoors). If you’re particularly prone to these feelings of oppression, consider more drastic steps, such as installing a skylight, patio doors (with the requisite patio door blinds, of course, for managing the light and maintaining privacy), or even a new window.
If you’re renting or simply don’t have the means for a renovation project right now, then fear not; you can use artificial wall light, ceiling lights, lamps and even candles to lighten and brighten up spaces, making them feel cosy, warm, and inviting, too.
Lose The Clutter (Where You Can)
When you are busy leading your life, you often fail to see clutter and mess building up around you until it’s too late, and you’ve been buried.
Clutter can amass quickly, and before you know it, it has taken the love and the enjoyment you once felt for your home and replaced it with the fear of tripping over every time you make for a different room.
You don’t want this in any season, but when you’re attempting to retreat into domestic bliss and sanctuary as the world falls apart around you, such clutter can be particularly intrusive, both physically and mentally.
To get the maximum amount of enjoyment you can from your domestic environment, you need to create more space in your home, and you can start doing this by decluttering. Getting rid of those things you’re inexplicably hoarding or hanging onto is what you need to be focusing your efforts on. When your home feels like it has space, and it feels uncluttered, then you will see (and feel) how much more enjoyable it is to be in.
The Power Of Colour
The colours and the shades that you use throughout your home can and will have an impact on the enjoyment you get from spending time there. Using softer and earthier tones and hues can help you feel more connected to nature and grounded in your property, which may heighten your sense of enjoyment. Or, you may also find that more colour schemes of a sunnier disposition may leave your home feeling warmer and calmer.
In fact, there’s a whole scientific discipline concerned with such matters. According to colour psychology, if you’re looking for colours that inspires wellness, dark greens and navy blues channel a harmonious ambience, whilst warm yellow or even muted bubble gum pink offer an uplifting aesthetic.
You could heap praise on autumn for its clear-as-glass branding, such is the strength of its colour association. Auburn, maroon, dark green and orange…earthy, rich shades take precedent as the season shifts and we’re well and truly here for a change after summer’s never-ending orgy of bright yellow.
The way you introduce these new tones is up to you; we wouldn’t recommend repainting with abandon. As time marches on, seasons are fleeting and it’s one hell of an ask to be changing your home’s colour scheme that often. You can, however, bring in throws and cushion covers of the requisite colour, as well as placing some carefully chosen trinkets which evoke those hues, too. Perhaps not a rotting pumpkin in the corner, but you catch our gist.
Forget stuffy interiors and chairs that cause pain to your bottom rather than cup it. What you add to your home in terms of furniture simply has to be comfortable.
Furniture can look good, but if there is no comfort to a piece, then you will find you never use it, and this means you never get the chance to fully embrace and enjoy every area of your home.
When you are looking at adding furniture or even replacing furniture, you need to remember to make it personal, but you also need to remember that comfort should never be undervalued. If comfort is undervalued or even overlooked, especially in autumn and winter, then you will end up with a show home.
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful,” as William Morris once said, “or believe to be beautiful.” Well, if an item brings you joy, then surely that’s one of the most useful things of all?
While we did say earlier that you should declutter, we do think that you should collect certain things that bring you joy; think objects that can tell a story and trinkets that act as a visual reminder of a time you enjoyed, be it a postcard from Brighton Pier or a print of your favourite flower. Or, if you have a hobby that you love, incorporate that into the design of your home, should it provide treat for the eyes as well as the soul.
Even if the objects that bring you joy are not useful or unconventionally beautiful, so be it – there’s much beauty to be found in the weird and the whacky after all.
The Bottom Line
Aesthetics and appearances be damned. If there’s one thing recent crisis has taught us, it’s that life is short and happiness, when there are circumstances circling that are out of our control, is finite. Rather than living in a house that fails to cultivate contentment, instead you owe it to yourself to nurture joy, cosy and comfort in your domestic space. Only then can you truly call it a home.
And hey, if you’re keen to pour one up to celebrate the new season, you could do much worse than one of these autumnal rye whiskey cocktails. Cheers!
Like the colours of the leaves, the fruit and vegetables we bring home from the local farmer’s market changes colour with the seasons; from summer’s bright berry reds to the dulcet, honeyed tones of autumn. Think the pale chartreuse of pears, the dark gold of apples, the purple of figs and of course, the orange of seasonal squashes.
So too does the colour of the liquids we bring home from the local bottle shop change in texture. From the effervescent summer rosés to the deep autumn ambers of whiskey, it’s a seismic shift reflected in our changing appetite for how we want to eat and drink.
A warming whiskey is just the thing to savour on these autumn evenings. At the moment, we’re particularly fond of rye whiskey from Maryland, which is traditionally sweeter than those from Virginia and Kentucky, but still with that peppery, astringent back-note. This is because the whisky makers in Maryland mix their rye grain with a high percentage of corn, which lends sweetness, balancing the rye’s characteristic spiciness.
Interestingly, this type of whiskey is the original base spirit of classic New York cocktails, such as the Manhattan and Old Fashioned, so if you’re looking to be ultra-traditional in your mixing of these classic cocktails, it’s American Rye Whiskey all the way. And who are we to complain?
Getting into the – ahem – spirit of things, we’ve spoken to the experts behind Sagamore Spirit, whose American Rye whiskies have earned more than 100 awards internationally, including the title of World’s Best Rye Whiskey in 2019, for their favourite autumnal cocktail recipes that make the most out of those seasonal ingredients we mentioned earlier.
Pumpkin Spice Sipper
Move over Pumpkin Spiced Latte, there’s a new, grown-up autumn drink in town, and it goes by Pumpkin Spice Sipper, or PSS.
Just like the PSL, the aromatics of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger in the Pumpkin Spice Slipper evoke familiar, cosy memories of autumn, creating a sense of nostalgia and the desire to connect with and embrace the autumnal season – just the ticket on these colder, darker nights, don’t you think?
The recipe is for a single serve:
Ingredients
1.5 oz Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
1.5 oz Pumpkin Puree
1.5 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
One Heavy Dash Pumpkin Spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger)
Ground Cinnamon for garnish
Method
Fill shaker halfway with ice and add all ingredients.
Shake to combine all ingredients.
Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube.
Garnish with a dusting of ground cinnamon.
IDEAL Tip: Give this one an extra shake or two to ensure each seasonal flavour blends to perfection.
Sagamore Pear Sour
The comedian Geroge Carlin once said that “a pear is a failed apple”.
Whilst we’re big fans of this stand-up comedian, we can only conclude that he never enjoyed a pear in its prime, which to our humble taste is unbeatable.
That said, it’s true that a pear is a paradoxical fruit, and a perfectly ripened one is a remarkably hard thing to come by, and they can often go from impenetrable and sour to brown and mushy in the space of a single day.
Once you find one that’s in its prime, however, it’s one of those autumnal moments of pure joy – just like having a sip of your first PSS. Pear is an underdog flavor that shines in this unique take on a classic sour, and we’re celebrating it now with a toast…
Ingredients
1.5 oz Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
2 oz Pear Juice
0.5 oz Lemon Juice
0.5 oz Cinnamon Syrup*
One Fresh Pear
Lemon & Ground Cinnamon for garnish
Method
Cut the pear into quarters and remove core. Place ¼ into shaker and muddle.
Strain into a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with a lemon wheel and ground cinnamon.
*Cinnamon Syrup: Mix one cup each of water and sugar with two cinnamon sticks in a small pot. Cook on med-low heat until sugar is dissolved and reduce to a simmer for 10-minutes. Cool and store in refrigerator. Yields 1 ½ cups.*
Yes, we said butter. In a drink. What are you afraid of?
A deliciously savoury cold weather cocktail which calls to mind, of all things, the flavours of a tarte tatin in cocktail form (what could be better, quite honestly?), made even more gluttonous with a pat of the real stuff.
Ingredients
1.5 oz. Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
4 oz Cinnamon Apple Spice Tea
0.5 oz Lemon Juice
0.75 oz Honey
Unsalted Butter for garnish
Method
Steep tea bag in hot water according to boxed instructions.
Add Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey, lemon juice and honey. Stir until combined.
Garnish with one tablespoon butter to melt on top.
A ripe fig is a rare treat, as a wise woman once said. The season is short, and finding one at its peak not guaranteed, but when you do, the temptation to scoff it there and then is hard to resist.
These guys don’t ripen after picking, so it’s a take-me-as-you-find-me situation when shopping. As such, it’s best to enjoy a fig as soon as you take it home, and we can’t think of a better way of doing so than by using fresh fig as a garnish in this classic Old Fashioned recipe, turned up a notch of two.
Ingredients
2 oz. Sagamore Spirit Signature Rye Whiskey
0.5 oz Dark Brown Sugar Syrup*
2 Dashes Sycophant bitters (orange and fig bitters)
1 Dash Angostura bitters
Fig for garnish
Method
Add all ingredients into a mixing glass.
Add ice and stir until cold.
Strain into a coupe glass and garnish
*Dark Brown Sugar Syrup: Mix one cup each of water and sugar. Cook on med-low heat until sugar is dissolved and reduce to a simmer for 10-minutes. Cool and store in refrigerator. Yields 1 ½ cups.*
Sagamore Spirit Double Oak Rye Whisky is available from Native Spirits,Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt retailing at £60 for a bottle of the good stuff. And with that, we’re raising a responsible glass to you as we light the scented candles and cosy on down. Cheers!
