So, you’ve decided to build your own house? First off, congratulations on your bravery! Exciting (and admittedly nerve-wracking) times lie ahead, but we’re confident the finished product will make all the current anxiety worthwhile. Before you start sketching out your dream home layout, though, let’s walk through 7 essential tips to ensure your build goes as smoothly as possible. Hard hat on? Come join us on the site…
Learn From Others’ Mistakes (AKA Binge-Watch Grand Designs)
No, seriously – hear us out. If you want to know what obstacles await and the mistakes to avoid when building your dream home, then may we suggest settling in for a marathon viewing of ‘Grand Designs’? With 21 series under its belt, this show has documented practically every possible pitfall in home building.
Time and again, we’ve watched ambitious homebuilders attempt to create their perfect property, complete with fancy features like instant boiling water taps and morning rooms, only to run into the same issues – particularly spiralling costs. According to the host, Kevin McCloud, most problems stem from “a lack of planning.” Wise words, Kev.
Get Your Dream Team In Place
Building a house isn’t a solo adventure – it’s more like assembling your very own A-Team, minus the van and mohawks. Start with a skilled architect who can translate your Pinterest board into actual plans. They’re not just drawing pretty pictures; they’re your creative ally in deciding how spaces flow and where that perfect morning light will stream in.
As the expert home builders in Dayton, Ohio, Schumacher Homes tell us, you’ll of course also need a reliable builder. Don’t just pick the first one you find on Google – look at their previous work, check their references, and trust your gut feeling. Remember, you’ll be working closely with these people for months, so chemistry matters almost as much as competence.
Master Your Money (Before It Masters You)
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – money. Building your own home can actually be considerably cheaper than buying from a developer, but only if you budget correctly. The cardinal sin of home building? Waiting until after you’ve started to figure out your finances.
Set a realistic budget before the first brick is laid, and then add another 10-20% for those inevitable surprises. Whether it’s discovering your plot needs extra groundwork or facing labour shortages, having this buffer could save your sanity.
Seek Professional Guidance
Before planning anything, it’s imperative you seek advice from real estate agents and home-building professionals. A real estate agent can provide valuable insights about your chosen location’s potential value, while an architect can help maximise your space and budget efficiency. Similarly, a building contractor can help you create realistic timelines and schedules.
If you’re selling a property to finance your build, work with companies who are part of the Property Ombudsman – they provide fair, independent service and work to consistent standards for consumers.
Consider The Custom Build Route
Building your own house shouldn’t necessarily mean getting your hard hat on and your hands dirty. Consider, instead, opting for a custom build. Generally, this comprises ready-made designs that you can customise to suit your specific needs.
While you might pay a premium for this approach, it can help avoid material mix-ups and budget overruns. Plus, you’ll still get the satisfaction of creating something uniquely yours without quite so many headaches.
Choose Materials That Last (Not Just Look Good)
While it’s tempting to spend hours picking out trendy tiles and fancy fixtures, focus first on the bones of your build. Your choice of materials will determine not just how your house looks, but how it stands up to whatever the British weather throws at it (and we all know it can throw quite a lot).
Consider materials that suit your local climate and lifestyle. That gorgeous hardwood flooring might look stunning on day one, but how will it cope with muddy wellies and endless rainy days? Sometimes, the practical choice is the smart choice.
Plan For The Future (Crystal Ball Optional)
When designing your dream home, you need to think beyond the immediate future. Will you need space for a growing family? Might elderly parents need to move in someday? Are you planning to work from home more often?
Don’t just build for the life you have now – build for the life you want to have. That might mean incorporating flexible spaces that can evolve with your needs, planning for potential extensions, or simply ensuring your ground floor could accommodate single-level living if needed down the line.
The Bottom Line
Building your own home is a bit like conducting an orchestra – there are lots of moving parts to coordinate, and occasionally someone will hit a bum note. But with proper planning, a realistic budget, and the right team behind you, you can create something truly spectacular.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your dream home won’t be either. But stick to these tips, keep your sense of humour handy, and before you know it, you’ll be turning that key in the door of your very own grand design.
The clocks have gone back. The nights are darkening. And as the crisp, golden hues of autumn already threaten to turn to the silvery shiver of winter, it’s essential to remember that our hair, like our wardrobe, requires a change in routine with the shift in seasons.
With leaves turning and temperatures dipping, autumn is synonymous with dry air. This can wreak havoc on our hair, leaving it parched, frizzy, and brittle. However, fear not, for we have your winter hair care essentials covered, ensuring that you maintain luscious locks through the fall and beyond.
Deep Conditioning: Moisture Mantra
The biting winter air and indoor heating can strip your hair of its natural moisture, leaving it vulnerable to damage. Your hair’s number one companion during this season is a good deep-conditioning treatment. Preferably, opt for conditioners containing natural oils like argan, jojoba, or shea butter, which are rich in essential fatty acids. These nutrients penetrate your hair shaft, restoring and locking in the moisture, leaving your hair soft, smooth, and resilient against the harsh winter elements.
Shampooing: Less Is More
While cleanliness is critically important, over-shampooing can further dehydrate your hair. During winter, try to limit your washes to twice or thrice a week at most. This allows your scalp to maintain its natural oils, keeping your hair naturally moisturised. Invest in a sulphate-free shampoo that gently cleanses without stripping away essential oils.
Protective Styling: Shield From The Cold
Consider adopting protective hairstyles during the colder months. Classic options like braids, buns, or updos not only limit your hair’s exposure to the harsh winter elements but also help prevent tangles and breakage due to winter winds and woollen scarves.
Heat Styling: Minimise During Winter
While it’s tempting to reach for your heat styling tools when battling winter frizz, the combination of artificial heat and dry air can be particularly damaging. Instead, explore heat-free styling alternatives: twist-outs for natural waves, heatless curls using soft rollers or silk scarves, braiding damp hair for textured waves, or pin-curling for vintage-inspired bouncy curls. If you must use heated tools like straighteners, curling wands, or blow dryers, keep usage to a minimum, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand, and keep your styling tool on the lowest effective temperature setting.
Hydrate & Nourish From Within
Topical applications are only half the battle. Hydrate and nourish your hair from within by drinking plenty of water and incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and proteins into your diet. Foods such as salmon, avocados, nuts, and seeds are a rich source of these nutrients. Consider adding a vitamin D supplement to compensate for reduced sunlight exposure.
Cold Water Rinse: The Chilling Truth
After a warm, relaxing shower, a cold water rinse might not sound appealing, especially during winter. However, finishing your wash with a cold rinse can work wonders for your hair. Cold water helps seal the hair cuticles, improving the shine and strength of your strands.
Essential Winter Hair Accessories
Invest in a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and static, which can cause hair breakage while you sleep. A wide-tooth comb is perfect for detangling your hair without causing unnecessary stress. Consider wearing a silk-lined hat or beanie to protect your hair from harsh winter weather whilst preventing friction and breakage.
Scalp Care: The Root Of The Matter
Winter can exacerbate scalp issues, leading to dryness and flaking. Incorporate a weekly scalp treatment into your routine using scalp-friendly products. A gentle massage with a few drops of essential oil, like tea tree or lavender oil, can stimulate blood circulation, promote hair growth, and create an optimal environment for healthy hair. Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom to combat the drying effects of central heating.
Regular Trims: Maintain Health
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks during the winter season are crucial. This helps eliminate split ends and reduces hair breakage, leaving your locks looking fresh and healthy. If you can’t make it to the salon, read our guide on how to give yourself a successful DIY haircut at home.
Never Leave The House With Wet Hair
Going out with wet hair in freezing weather can cause it to freeze and break. Always ensure your hair is completely dry before venturing out into winter weather. If you’re in a hurry, try using microfibre towels or t-shirt drying methods, which absorb water effectively without causing excessive dryness or frizz. Consider washing your hair in the evening to allow for natural overnight drying.
The Bottom Line
Winter doesn’t need to spell disaster for your tresses. With proper care and attention, you can maintain healthy, vibrant hair throughout the coldest months. A winter-specific hair care regimen not only protects your hair from damage but also ensures it remains beautiful and manageable, even on the frostiest of days. Embrace these beauty tips just in time for party season, and let your hair shine as brightly as freshly fallen snow!
Whilst it might feel perverse to mention firing up the central heating, let alone whispering the ol’ W word, let’s face it; winter is coming. Autumn, of course, is well and truly here, with its unmistakable scents and darkening evenings already very much in the air.
As we approach the colder months, it’s essential to prepare our homes for the inevitable temperature drop. While we all look forward to the changing leaves, cosy evenings in front of the television, and warming cups of tea, there is a less than appealing side to the autumn and winter seasons – the likelihood of our homes losing valuable heat. And, the resulting increase in energy bills that brings.
So, how do you keep your home efficiently warm and avoid rising energy bills? Here are some effective strategies you can implement for the coming colder months.
Insulate Your Home Effectively
Insulation is one of the keys to maintaining an energy-efficient house, and its importance can’t be overstated. Proper insulation in your loft, walls, floors, and ceilings can prevent heat from escaping and cold from entering your home. This ensures you have a warm and comfortable environment, even as the temperatures outside plummet.
We realise that a full on insulation project for your property might be prohibitively expensive right now, particularly in a cost of living crisis. Fear not; there are DIY ways you can insulate your home, too. Bare floors can account for as much as 10% of heat loss if they’re not insulated. Invest in carpets or area rugs to keep your feet warm and prevent heat from escaping.
Also consider your windows as a source of heat loss. While an upgrade to double – or even triple – glazing (more of that in a moment) is the most all-encompassing approach to improving the heating efficiency of your home, there are more basic insulating approaches you can take, too. A cost-effective method to improve the insulation of your windows is to attach a special insulation film. The film can be cut to size, attached with double-sided tape and then heated with a hairdryer to shrink it and remove any wrinkles.
Thick curtains or thermal blinds can significantly reduce heat loss through windows, too. They trap a layer of air against the window, which provides an extra layer of insulation.
Finally, insulating your hot water pipes can prevent heat loss, meaning your boiler doesn’t have to work as hard. Pre-formed foam tubes can be purchased, which can be easily cut to size and placed around your pipes.
Upgrade Your Windows To Double Glazing
As the team at Phair, one of the more reputed window companies in Leicester, tell us, when it comes to home heat preservation, windows are a common weak point. Heat can easily escape from single-pane windows, making your heating system work extra hard. Double-glazed windows are a fantastic solution. These consist of two sheets of glass with a gap in between, which creates an insulating barrier to keep the heat in.
In particular, if your home has sash windows, you might have experienced significant heat loss. Traditional sash windows are notorious for being draughty. Upgrading your existing sash windows to double-glazed sash windows could drastically improve your home’s heat retention capability, saving you money on your heating bill. Moreover, it maintains the charm and character of your home. A skilled tradesperson will be able to restore these windows without damaging their integrity or prized aesthetic.
Mind The Gaps
Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and loft hatches to prevent heat from escaping. Even the smallest of gaps can create a significant draught, and heat can be lost from these unexpected places, affecting not only your levels of comfort, but also your energy bills and the carbon footprint of your property. Here are some of the best methods to prevent those pesky draughts:
Window and Door Draught Excluders: Draught excluders are a simple and cost-effective way to reduce draughts. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from long sausage-shaped draught excluders that you can place at the bottom of doors, to adhesive rubber seals that fit around the edges of your windows.
Weatherstripping: This involves applying a thin strip of material (usually rubber, vinyl or metal) around the windows and doors to seal off small gaps. There are self-adhesive strips available which are very easy to install.
Caulking: This is a flexible sealant that is applied to the cracks and gaps. Make sure your windows and doors are clean and dry before applying caulk, apply it smoothly and evenly, and allow it to dry before painting over it.
Expandable Foam: This is a good option for draught-proofing larger gaps around windows and doors. Be cautious while using expandable foam as it expands rapidly and can be difficult to remove if it makes a mess.
Window Film: Window insulation film is a plastic film which can be applied to glass windows to reduce heat transfer. It’s transparent so you can still see through your windows, but it helps to reduce draughts and increase energy efficiency.
Remember, before you undertake these improvements, it’s important to identify where exactly the draughts are coming from. You can do this on a windy day by moving a lit candle around the door and window edges. If the flame flickers, there’s a draught. Using these methods can prevent draughts and make your home more energy efficient.
Install A Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat gives you greater control over your home’s heating by allowing you to schedule when it turns on and off. Some models can even learn your daily routine and adjust the heating accordingly. This improved efficiency helps your home stay warm and reduces waste, thereby saving you money.
Regular boiler servicing will keep your boiler operating at maximum efficiency. Ensure it’s up to the job of warming your home by having it serviced annually. Now is the perfect time to get your boiler in top shape, so when it’s time to crank up the central heating, you can be confident that you’re not wasting energy.
The Bottom Line
There are numerous ways to prevent your home from losing heat during the winter months. By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only have a warm, comfortable home but also see a significant reduction in your energy bills. So why wait? Start preparing your home today and ensure that you get the most out of these cosy seasons.
While the leafy streets of Dulwich might be better known for their pristine parks and the Dulwich Picture Gallery (Britain’s oldest public art gallery, no less), the area’s food scene has been quietly evolving into something special.
With three stations (North, East and West Dulwich) serving the area, you’re never more than a short walk from your next memorable meal, whether that’s a Georgian feast with wine from clay vessels, satisfying, sprawling pizza, or modern Indian cooking that’s earning widespread acclaim. With the help of CJ Digital, a leading restaurant marketing agency in London, here’s our pick of the best places to eat in Dulwich.
Kartuli, Lordship Lane
Ideal for discovering the comforting flavours of Georgian cuisine and wines from the cradle of winemaking…
Behind a striking emerald-green shopfront adorned with hanging baskets and Georgian bunting, Kartuli brings a slice of Tbilisi to East Dulwich. Housed in the historic David Greig building, the dining room marries bentwood chairs and warm wooden surfaces with trailing plants and a spectacular wall of Georgian wines – it’s the kind of place that makes you want to settle in for the long haul.
The menu reads like a love letter to Georgian cuisine. Start with badrijani – tender fried aubergine rolls filled with a ground walnut, garlic and spice paste – or their exemplary pkhali selection, where spinach, beetroot, carrot and beans are transformed through grinding with walnuts and aromatic spices. The legendary khachapuri (cheese-filled breads) come in several regional varieties, but it’s the Acharuli version that draws gasps: a boat-shaped bread filled with molten cheese, topped with an egg and butter that you stir together to create what might be the world’s most indulgent dip.
Main courses showcase Georgia’s mastery of slow cooking – the chakapuli (lamb shank fragrant with tarragon, spring onions and Rkatsiteli white wine) is soul-warming, while their shkmeruli (roasted poussin in garlic cream) shows how elevated ‘simple’ dishes can be. Vegetarians are particularly well-served; the lobio (pinto beans rich with herbs, fresh chillies and spices) is served with fermented vegetables and puts most meat dishes to shame.
The wine list is, quite simply, one of the most exciting in London. Georgia, widely considered the birthplace of wine, is represented in all its amber-hued glory. Start with their ‘First Time Taster’ flight, which includes a qvevri-made amber wine that will change how you think about white wine. Their Saperavi reds are powerful yet elegant, while their standout Shumi Qvevri sparkling wine offers a fascinating Georgian take on traditional method bubbles, made with 70% Chinebuli and 30% Mtsvane grapes.
End with their honey cake (layers of honey-infused sponge filled with caramel cream) or, better yet, the intriguing Pelamushi – a traditional dessert of Kindzmarauli wine and grape juice, served with roasted walnuts. A shot of chacha (Georgian grape brandy) provides the traditional finale.
Ideal for seasonal British cooking that lets the ingredients sing…
A quarter-century into its tenure on Lordship Lane, Franklins remains exactly what you want from a neighbourhood restaurant – unfussy yet special, with a daily-changing menu that reads like a greatest hits of British cooking. As Jay Rayner put it (some 21 years ago, admittedly), it’s “West End style without the hype.”
The farm shop next door may have closed, but its spirit lives on in the restaurant’s devotion to excellent produce. The menu shifts with the seasons and market availability – on any given day you might find clear venison soup with chive pancakes to start, followed by ox heart with chicory and chorizo, or cod with beetroot and tarragon yoghurt. The kitchen shows particular flair with game during season, and their generous Barnsley chops have achieved near-mythical status among locals.
There’s real value to be found in their set lunch menu (£21.95 for two courses, £24.95 for three), while the evening a la carte delivers proper cooking at prices that remain remarkably fair for the quality – starters hover around £9-10, mains £16-27. Even better, they’re celebrating their quarter century this November with a throwback menu offering three courses for £19.99.
The wine list is equally thoughtful and fairly priced, with interesting guest wines by the glass, while the puddings – think quince crumble with custard or chocolate and hazelnut parfait with red wine pear – make lingering essential. Their selection of after-dinner armagnacs and cognacs, including some remarkable aged examples, provides a final flourish.
Price: Starters £9-13, mains £16-27, set lunch menu £21.95/£24.95
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun 12pm-10:30pm
Book ahead: Essential for Sunday lunch, advisable other times
Ideal for contemporary Greek cooking that values substance over stereotypes…
There’s not a smashed plate or bouzouki in sight at Evi’s, and that’s exactly the point. This compact North Cross Road spot – from Evi Peroulaki and Conor Mills, who earned their stripes running the much-loved Souvlaki Street stall – delivers Greek food that’s both authentic and excitingly contemporary.
The narrow space, with its navy blue booths and whitewashed walls, offers just enough Hellenic hints without falling into taverna cliché, while the perspex-sheltered garden is a suntrap perfect for long weekend lunches. But it’s the cooking that makes this place special – elegantly rugged dishes that showcase just what happens when you spend years perfecting your craft in London’s street food scene.
Their famous pork souvlaki, made with premium Tamworth collar, shows how elevating ‘simple’ street food can be, while the tzatziki and melitzanosalata (smoky aubergine dip scattered with walnuts and pomegranate) have the vivid freshness you’d expect from something made minutes ago. The courgette fritters are a must-order, arriving as golden-crisp boulders with dill-flecked centers and cooling sumac yoghurt.
The drinks list is ace, too – think all-Greek wines and house-made sodas spiked with cucumber and lime. Don’t expect coffee or dessert (a conscious choice given the space), but do expect some of the most exciting Greek cooking in London.
Price: Small plates £6-9, mains £14-18
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 6pm-9:30pm, Fri 12pm-2:30pm & 5:30pm-9:30pm, Sat 12pm-3pm & 5:30pm-9:30pm, Sun 12pm-3pm
Book ahead: Essential – they recently introduced online booking for good reason
Ideal for contemporary Japanese cooking with serious sushi credentials…
From the team behind Clapham’s much-loved Tsunami comes this sophisticated spot that’s been quietly serving some of South London’s best Japanese cuisine since opening a decade ago. The dining room strikes a perfect balance between sleek and welcoming, with the sushi counter providing dinner theatre for those lucky enough to grab a seat there.
The menu covers impressive ground without losing focus. Start with yellowtail hamachi with jalapeño and ponzu or their exemplary salt and chilli squid, before moving onto their selection of precisely crafted nigiri and sashimi – the scallop is a particular highlight. Their ‘special’ rolls show real creativity; the soft shell crab version, wrapped in tempura and served with avocado and spring onion, is lightness in batter form, and after the initial satisfying crunch, disappears on the palate.
For those seeking something more substantial, the black cod marinated in sweet miso is worth its £29.50 price tag, while the Scottish Angus rib-eye comes three ways: straight-up teriyaki, ‘dynamite’ style with chilli sauce, or with exotic mushrooms and truffle. Their bao buns – try the pork belly with truffle mayo or Korean fried cauliflower – make perfect drinking food alongside their selection of Japanese beers and sake.
Ideal for sophisticated Indian cooking that honors tradition while embracing modernity…
In a smart suburban parade on Rosendale Road, Heritage – Dulwich’s only Michelin-recognised restaurant – is quietly reinventing Indian fine dining in South London. Chef Dayashankar Sharma, who has led many of London’s finest Indian kitchens over three decades, now cooks alongside his son Anmol, creating dishes that are both reverent to tradition and thrillingly contemporary.
The menu reads like a masterclass in balancing heritage and innovation. Start with old Delhi papdi chaat – wheat crisps topped with sweet potato and pomegranate – or venture into more ambitious territory with the venison badal jaam, where wild venison meets spiced aubergine and tomato. The tandoor section showcases technical precision: Heritage lamb chops are given the royal treatment with black cardamom and raw papaya, while king prawns come alive with Bengali shatkora citrus.
Mains strike a perfect balance between comfort and refinement – the rogani nalli gosht (lamb shank with black cardamom) is pure indulgence, while the Kashmiri lamb shows real respect for regional recipes. Their weekend thali lunch (£19.99) might be the best value fine dining in South London. For the full experience, opt for one of their tasting menus – the 7-course feast (£68) with matched wines (£40) shows particular ambition, moving from rabbit kebab with radish yogurt through to tandoor-grilled pineapple with salted caramel ice cream.
The wine list shows real thought, with interesting pairings like Grüner Veltliner with scallop moilee, while the cocktail menu plays with Indian flavors – try the Rajwara Old Fashioned, where cardamom-infused bourbon meets bay leaf and bitters.
Price: Small plates £8-12, mains £12-23, tasting menus £52/£68
Ideal for creative all-day dining with a plant-forward focus…
Behind the charming white-painted frontage of this East Dulwich stalwart, complete with wooden benches and window boxes spilling with herbs, Spinach has been quietly revolutionizing neighborhood dining since 2013. Founded by Melissa Harwood, who you’ll still find between here and their sister site most days, it’s the kind of place that makes you wish all local restaurants could be this good.
The daytime menu sings with creative brunch dishes that work whether you’re virtuous or hungover. Their sweet potato shakshuka – two perfectly poached eggs swimming in a sauce livened up with cheddar, pickled onions and sriracha butter – has achieved cult status, while their brioche French toast with black forest compote offers indulgence done right. The ‘Oooh go on then’ section of add-ons (from £2-£6) lets you customise to your heart’s content.
Come evening, the lights dim and the menu shifts to sophisticated small plates that showcase vegetables without being strictly vegetarian. The burrata topped with roasted pumpkin and pesto (£12) is a standout, while the rump steak with Jerusalem artichoke purée (£12.50) shows they’re equally deft with meat. Their cocktails are well-crafted and fairly priced – the English Garden (£10), with gin, elderflower, cucumber and mint, is summer in a glass.
Sustainability is a key driver of the whole vibe here too, from careful menu planning to reduce waste to a commitment to local suppliers – the sourdough comes from nearby Blackbird Bakery, while William Rose provides the meat.
Price: Brunch £8-14, evening small plates £4-13
Opening hours: Mon-Wed 8am-5pm, Thu-Sat 8am-11pm, Sun 8am-5pm
Book ahead: Yes for weekend brunch and Thursday-Saturday dinner
Ideal for properly good pizza that doesn’t take itself too seriously…
Behind the distinctive orange and blue shopfront, Yard Sale has been quietly revolutionising London’s pizza game for some time now. The Lordship Lane outpost (the operation’s sixth) might be compact, with just a handful of seats, but that’s hardly the point – this is a pizza joint that knows exactly what it’s doing.
Each pizza starts with their signature slow-cooked tomato sauce and carefully sourced fior di latte mozzarella. The ‘TSB’ (tender stem broccoli with parmesan, pine nuts and garlic) has achieved cult status, while the ‘Holy Pepperoni’ – loaded with regular pepperoni, smokey gyula pepperoni and nduja – shows they’re not afraid of excess. For the truly committed, there’s the ‘Unholy Pepperoni’, which doubles down on everything and adds hot honey.
The menu plays with tradition without losing the plot – their vegan options aren’t afterthoughts (try the Texas VBQ with THIS™ plant-based chicken), and there’s a knowing wink in dishes like ‘Guindillas in the Mist’. Pro tip: the 18-inch pizzas are better value than two 12-inch ones, perfect for sharing or ambitious solo dining.
They’ve thought of everything: truffle mayo for crust dipping, the Ribman’s famous Holy F*ck sauce for heat seekers, and even marmite and cheese garlic bread for the umami-heads.
Ideal for special occasion dining in a Grade II-listed Georgian mansion…
Behind the grand columns of Dulwich’s most imposing mansion, No. 5 at Belair House delivers a dining experience that matches its setting. The restaurant balances special occasion glamour with neighborhood warmth, serving modern British cuisine across several menus that change with the seasons.
Their brunch game is particularly strong – the breakfast waffle topped with crispy bacon, poached eggs and hollandaise shows their knack for elevated comfort food, while their lamb kofta with yogurt and mint dip proves they can handle more substantial fare. The afternoon tea (£22, or £29 with prosecco) needs pre-ordering but delivers the full works: finger sandwiches, fresh scones and petit fours.
Evening brings more ambition to the plate – think scallop and prawn with butternut squash purée, or herb-crusted corn-fed chicken with garlic and rosemary potatoes. Their Sunday roasts have earned a loyal following, with options including slow-roasted beef ribeye and whole roasted poussin (£17-18), all served with a pleasing array of trimmings and Yorkshire puddings the size of your head.
The cocktail list shows similar attention to detail – try their English Garden (gin, elderflower, cucumber and mint) while taking in those park views. Just remember to book ahead and check they’re not closed for a wedding – it is, after all, primarily an events venue.
Ideal for relaxed Italian dining that doesn’t sacrifice authenticity…
Named after a village in the Alban Hills southeast of Rome, this independent trattoria brings a genuine slice of Italian hospitality to Dulwich Village. The bright, airy space offers alfresco seating both out front and in their rear garden – perfect for long summer lunches after a stroll around Dulwich Park or the Picture Gallery.
The menu reads like a greatest hits of Italian cuisine, but done with real care. Pizzas come on dough made with Wildfarmed flour – try the pizza Romana with spinach, pork salsiccia and chillies, or the bianca which swaps tomato sauce for a decadent mix of mozzarella, parmesan, and goat’s cheese with caramelized onions. The pasta, all made in-house under Executive Chef Francesco’s supervision, ranges from comforting classics (the carbonara with guanciale and Clarence Court eggs is textbook) to more ambitious plates like tortelloni filled with lobster and prawns in a sage and caper butter sauce.
For those seeking something more substantial, the branzino puttanesca (grilled seabass with a punchy sauce of capers, anchovies and olives) shows they can handle fish with finesse, while the lamb cutlets with mint sauce prove there’s more to Italian cooking than pasta and pizza. Their wine list focuses entirely on Italian bottles, with helpful pairing suggestions for each dish.
End with their torta della nonna or pecan caramel cheesecake, and don’t skip the digestivi – their grappa selection is impressive.
Deciding to go from renting a home to purchasing one is an incredibly exciting move, but it’s also one which is fraught with red tape and tension aplenty. And that tension is only amplified by recent reports of an ongoing and worsening mortgage crisis here in the UK, with rising interest rates wreaking havoc on the market.
Because this purchase is symbolic of your graduation to a level of financial maturity and lifelong stability, which may help you properly settle down, it’s one which shouldn’t be taken lightly. Instead, you should exercise inquisition, caution and due diligence at every turn.
In the very first stages of seeking somewhere suitable, there are several key enquiries you should be making. These are those; our 8 questions to ask in the early stages of house hunting.
Does The Neighbourhood Have A Good Sense Of Community?
One of the first things that you should do when you’re considering purchasing a home is to check the neighbourhood that it’s located within scrupulously. Because when you’re buying a house, it’s not just the bricks and mortar which define whether you’ll be happy there. Just as important is the area, its atmosphere and vibe, and whether it’s a convenient place to spend time.
Top of the list of importance are:
To check the schools in the local area for your children to attend
To understand the kind of community that you’ll be moving into and engaging with
To see if the neighbours are welcoming, positive, open-minded folk
So, during the house hunt, spend time in the neighbourhood, enjoying a coffee and a stroll, striking up conversations, and getting a feel for the area. Intuition and a certain sixth sense are invaluable here; if you feel in your gut that a place is well suited to you, then it probably is!
Are There Developments Planned In The Area?
It’s an honest truth of any diligent house hunt: Asking the right questions can often yield answers you weren’t perhaps prepared to hear.
And so it goes when looking to learn if there are any developments planned in the area. This could have a positive or negative effect on the future valuation of your potential property, but it’s essential to be well informed on any plans for the neighbourhood, as this will affect your quality of life and the property’s value.
Your property’s value is likely to inflate over time, but planned developments in the area will have a huge impact on by just how much. If there’s massive regeneration and added transport links happening soon, then result! But if a future development – like a noisy nightclub or sports stadium – might put off future investment and dominate the neighbourhood, then you may want to exercise caution. It’s these kinds of considerations that you will need to keep in mind if you’re looking to make money selling the property on.
What Does A Local Conveyancing Lawyer Think?
In the UK, when making a house purchase, you leave the conveyancing to a professional lawyer, who’ll help you to figure out the right questions to ask according to the specifics of your potential new property.
The key thing to remember here is that you don’t need to be a property expert yourself in order to get the advice you need from a trusted ally in your house move. You’ll need the trusted advice of experience residential conveyancing lawyers or online conveyancing solicitors to help you to understand the kind of investment you’re making in the property – and to check if there’s any hidden costs or damage to the home that you should know about. This second opinion will be invaluable in the process.
Is The House Listed Or Is It In A Conservation Area?
Not all listed, protected buildings are immediately obvious as being so, or boast a particularly grand, historic appearance. Neither does a conservation area necessarily appear full of wildlife and biodiversity. Sometimes, the true value (and therefore, restrictions) of an area isn’t clear to the naked eye.
Therefore, it’s absolutely crucial that you check if the property you’re considering purchasing is listed or standing in a conservation area, as this will significantly affect any changes you’d like to make the property, extensions you might add, even colour schemes you might change.
You can check if the property is listed via Historic England’s official database and if it’s in a conservation area via your local council’s website.
How Much Are The Bills?
It might sound uncouth, inconsequential even, to ask about the finer details, such as bill and utility costs, at the early stages of a property viewing. If they’re disproportionately high, or there are discrepancies with average costs in the area, then it’s a good indication of the function of the central heating and water flow, as well as the internet and electricity, and therefore, telling of the state of the property as a whole. Relatively large bills should serve as a warning. Council tax is also highly variable and can differ even from street to street, so check this too.
What Are The Energy Efficiency & Environmental Factors?
Inextricably linked with the cost of bills, environmental sustainability is an issue that more people are concerned about, and this extends to our homes. Inspect the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which will give you a clearer insight into the house’s energy efficiency.
When attending property viewings, it’s essential to gather information on the seller’s motivations and property chain status – this can influence your offer and the overall speed of the transaction. If the seller has already secured their next home or requires a quick sale, they may be more open to reasonable offers, representing an opportunity for potential cost savings.
What Is The History Of Previous Sales?
Understanding the property’s sales history can offer invaluable insights into its market value and potential investment worth. A quick Land Registry search will reveal previous sale prices, helping you gauge whether the current asking price is reasonable given historical trends. Be particularly mindful of properties that have changed hands frequently in a short period – this could either signal an excellent investment opportunity or hint at underlying issues that have prompted previous owners to sell quickly.
Look out for any significant price jumps or drops between sales, as these might indicate major renovations, structural problems, or changes in the local area that have affected the property’s value. This historical context, combined with current market conditions, will help you make a more informed decision about whether the property represents good value for money.
The weekend is traditionally a time for r’n’r, to let your hair down or kick your feet up, and leave the worries of the week behind. It’s certainly not the time of the week that we expect to be spending at the dentists. Yes, it’s true, dental problems over the weekend can leave us in a spin and an unplanned panic, as contingency plans for such an episode are rarely in place. We never plan to knock out a tooth, break our braces, or correctly anticipate the pain of a toothache in advance.
When it happens, wrong decisions can exacerbate an already fraught (or should we say ‘fractured’?) situation. So, we’re here to chew the fat on what constitutes a dental emergency and who to contact for help. Here are 7 simple steps to take if a weekend dental emergency strikes.
Step 1: Recognise The Emergency
When that niggling tooth pain transforms into something more sinister, it’s crucial to know whether you’re dealing with a genuine dental emergency or something that can wait until Monday morning. The most obvious sign is severe, unrelenting tooth pain that keeps you tossing and turning all night. If you notice your face beginning to swell, particularly if it affects your breathing or vision, that’s your cue to seek immediate help. The same goes for any trauma that’s left your teeth loose or, heaven forbid, knocked clean out.
Persistent bleeding that won’t stop with pressure isn’t something to sleep on, and neither are those telltale signs of infection: fever, swelling, and severe pain that makes you want to climb the walls. A broken jaw or severe facial trauma? Well, that’s definitely not something to sleep on, either.
Step 2: Keep Your Emergency Contacts Handy
Being caught short without the right number to call can turn a dental drama into a full-blown crisis. Before disaster strikes (and it always seems to strike at the most inconvenient times), make sure you’ve got your emergency contacts sorted. Your regular dentist’s emergency number should be right at the top of that list – many practices nowadays have special arrangements for weekend emergencies.
Pop NHS 111 in there too; they’re absolute champions at providing out-of-hours dental advice. Know where your nearest emergency dental clinic is, and keep their number handy. For those particularly nasty accidents involving facial trauma, your local A&E department’s details are essential. Here’s a nifty bit of intel: many dental practices now offer WhatsApp consultation services, perfect for sending those “is this as bad as I think it is?” photos. Worth asking your dentist about this service before you need it.
Step 3: Provide Immediate First Aid
Different dental disasters call for different types of urgent dental care and their accordant emergency responses, and knowing what to do in those crucial first moments can make all the difference. Take a knocked-out tooth, for instance – it’s not game over if you act fast. First things first: find that tooth! Handle it like fine china, touching only the crown (that’s the part you usually see, not the root). Give it a gentle rinse with milk or saline, but for heaven’s sake, don’t scrub it – you’ll do more harm than good.
If you’re feeling brave, try popping it back in its socket. If that’s not your cup of tea, pop it in a container of milk or saline solution instead. Just remember: time is of the essence. You’ve got about 60 minutes to get to a dentist if you want the best chance of saving that tooth.
Step 4: Manage Pain & Swelling
While you’re waiting for professional help (and doesn’t that wait always feel like an eternity?), there’s plenty you can do to keep yourself comfortable. A dynamic duo of paracetamol and ibuprofen can work wonders for pain relief – just follow the dosage instructions, mind you.
Get friendly with a cold compress; 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off on the outside of your face can help keep swelling at bay. Warm salt water rinses are your new best friend – give them a go every hour. If you can get your hands on some clove oil from the chemist, that’s nature’s little numbing agent right there. And while you might be tempted by that steaming cup of tea or ice-cold drink, your tender tooth will thank you for sticking to room temperature refreshments for now.
Step 5: Handle Common Weekend Mishaps
Weekends have a funny way of throwing dental curveballs our way. Take broken braces, for instance – a situation that always seems to crop up right before a big event. Orthodontic wax becomes your best mate here; it’s brilliant for covering those sharp edges that are trying to redesign the inside of your cheek. If you’ve got a wire playing havoc, the clean end of a pencil can be your unlikely hero – use the eraser end to gently push it back into place. Just resist the urge to play dentist with those wire cutters!
Lost a filling while tucking into your Friday night takeaway? First off, give the cavity a gentle clean with warm water. Your local chemist will be able to sort you out with some temporary filling material – it’s not pretty, but it’ll do the job until you can get to the dentist. In the meantime, treat that side of your mouth like it’s on holiday – no heavy lifting required.
Step 6: Know When To Head To A&E
Sometimes what starts as a dental emergency can take a turn that warrants a trip to Accident & Emergency. If you find yourself struggling to breathe because of swelling, or you’ve taken a knock that might have rearranged your jaw, A&E is your best bet. The same goes for bleeding that’s deciding to be stubborn about stopping, or if you’re showing signs of a serious infection – think fever, breathing difficulties, or swelling that’s making you look like you’ve gone a few rounds in the ring.
Step 7: Prevention Is Better Than Cure
While we can’t bubble-wrap our teeth for the weekend, we can certainly stack the odds in our favour. Sporting types, make friends with your mouthguard – it’s a lot cheaper than dental work. Save your teeth for eating and smiling; they’re not bottle openers or scissors, no matter how tempting that may be when you’re in a pinch. Regular check-ups with your dentist might seem like a faff, but they’re champions at spotting little problems before they turn into weekend-ruining emergencies. And while dental insurance might seem like just another monthly expense, you’ll be glad you have it when you’re facing an emergency bill that makes your eyes water more than the toothache.
Remember, dental emergencies don’t keep office hours, but thankfully, neither do emergency dentists. Don’t let fear or inconvenience stop you from seeking help – your teeth (and your weekend) will thank you for taking swift action. Keep this guide handy, and hopefully, you’ll never need to use it. But if you do, you’ll be glad you were prepared!
*This article is meant as general advice only and should not replace professional medical guidance. Always consult qualified dental professionals for specific medical advice about your situation. In case of doubt, contact NHS 111 or visit your nearest A&E department.*
Picture this: Your pop-up restaurant is buzzing. The tables are full, Instagram is lighting up with photos of your signature dishes, and food critics (or, at least, a slew of vloggers) are taking notice. But here’s the million-dollar question: Can you transform this temporary triumph into a lasting success story that investors want to be part of? If you can’t, this is all a fumbled crumb on the story of your life, rather than a perfectly proven loaf rising in the oven…
The harsh reality is that even the most innovative pop-ups often struggle to make the leap from hot ticket to serious investment opportunity. While your grandmother’s secret recipe might have customers lining up around the block, investors are looking beyond the plate. They’re searching for pop-ups that combine culinary creativity with business savvy—operations that can scale from one-off sensation to sustainable success.
We’ve analysed dozens of pop-up-to-permanent success stories and chatted to investors who’ve backed them. The pattern is clear: The winners aren’t just serving great food—they’re building sophisticated operations disguised as simple restaurants. Whether you’re testing waters in a borrowed kitchen or running a six-month residency, these are the 7 critical elements that turn investor heads and open wallets.
Show Numbers That Actually Matter
We had to start with the boring bit, but money talks. First-week sales are exciting, but they don’t tell the full story. Smart pop-ups track metrics that actually matter: customer retention rate, average spend per head, peak vs off-peak performance, and social media engagement that translates to bookings, not just likes. These are the numbers that make investors’ eyes light up.
But it’s not just about collecting data – it’s about using it. Are you tracking which dishes get reordered most often? Do you know your busiest days and times down to the hour? How about your average table turnover time? These insights help you optimise everything from staffing levels to menu engineering.
The most successful pop-ups use data to predict trends before they happen. If you can show investors how you’ve adjusted your business based on real customer behaviour, you’re speaking their language.
Your Space Should Tell A Story
Walk into any successful pop-up and you’ll feel it immediately – that perfect match between concept and space. It’s not just about cramming in as many tables as possible – it’s about the innate feel of the room, a fine balance between spaciousness and bustle, intimacy and energy.
Working with an experienced restaurant furniture supplier, you can create a space that flows naturally, adapts to service needs, and makes everyone feel like they’re part of something special.
The secret lies in understanding how diners move through your space. The best pop-ups create natural pathways that guide guests from entrance to table to bar without awkward bottlenecks. Think about sightlines too – can your guests see the kitchen action? Is there a focal point that draws the eye? These details matter to investors because they show you understand how space impacts both operations and atmosphere.
Your furniture choices speak volumes about your brand. From the height of your bar stools to the finish on your tables, every detail contributes to the story. But remember – comfort drives revenue. Uncomfortable guests don’t linger for that extra dessert or cocktail.
Design A Menu That Makes Money
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – your stunning signature dish might be losing you money. Each plate needs to earn its place on your menu through smart costing, efficient prep, and price points that your target market will actually pay. It’s about finding that sweet spot between culinary ambition and commercial sense.
Menu psychology matters too. Consider your menu layout – where do eyes naturally fall on the page? Are your high-margin dishes positioned prominently? Smart pop-ups use menu design to guide ordering behaviour subtly. They also understand the power of limited choice – a carefully curated menu often outperforms a sprawling one.
Consider your prep times too. Can your kitchen handle a full house ordering your most complex dishes simultaneously? The best menus balance showstoppers with quick-fire crowd-pleasers.
Build A Dream Team
In the pop-up world, your team needs to be doubly impressive. They’re not just serving food – they’re selling your vision. When everyone from your head chef to your part-time server can naturally explain your concept and make genuine connections with guests, investors notice.
Training is crucial, but culture is key. How do you maintain team energy when service is slow? What systems do you have for sharing feedback and ideas? The strongest pop-ups create environments where staff feel invested in the concept’s success.
Think about roles differently too. Could your bartender double as a social media manager (whilst you respect their agreed hours and roles, of course)? Could your servers help with prep during quiet periods (again, whilst ensuring this doesn’t amount to a blurring of defined, contracted responsibilities)?
All that dispensed with, versatility and a sense of nimble fluidity impresses investors.
Create Systems That Scale
Here’s the brutal truth – if your pop-up only works because you’re there every second of every service, and everyone is frazzled trying to deliver the quality and consistency you aspire to, investors will walk away. You need robust systems that anyone can follow, from opening checks to closing procedures. Think of it as writing the manual for your future empire.
Documentation is your friend here. Every process, from how to plate each dish to how to handle complaints, should be recorded. But keep it practical – the best systems are the ones people actually use.
Consider technology too. The right point-of-sale system, inventory management tools, and reservation platforms can make scaling much smoother. Just make sure they talk to each other.
Marketing Beyond The Buzz
Instagram buzz is great, but sustainable success needs more. What’s your plan for quiet Tuesdays? How are you building a loyal customer base? The most successful pop-ups combine social media savvy with old-school hospitality values to create genuine word-of-mouth excitement.
Email marketing remains incredibly powerful in hospitality. Are you collecting customer data? How are you using it to drive repeat visits? Smart pop-ups create targeted campaigns based on dining habits and preferences.
Local partnerships can be game-changers too. Think about complementary businesses in your area – could you create mutual value through collaborations?
Partner With The Right Suppliers
Your suppliers aren’t just vendors – they’re your growth partners. When you work with established, esteemed names, you’re showing investors you understand the importance of reliability and scalability. The right suppliers don’t just deliver goods; they deliver peace of mind.
Build relationships with multiple suppliers for crucial ingredients – this redundancy impresses investors. And don’t forget to negotiate terms that can scale with you. The best suppliers will want to grow alongside your business.
Remember, investors aren’t just backing your food – they’re backing a food business. Show them you’ve thought beyond the pop-up phase, and you’ll find they’re much more willing to come along for the ride.
The Bottom Line
Most importantly, let your passion show through in everything you do. Yes, investors care about numbers and systems, but they also invest in people who combine ambition with smart business sense. Get these elements right, and you’ll be well on your way to turning your pop-up dream into a permanent reality.
In the heart of London’s West End – a broad term that encompasses Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea – lies a glittering gem renowned globally for its dazzling drama and sparkling performances.
No, we’re not talking about the London Coliseum or Palladium, striking as they may be. Rather, we’re referring to the West End’s other great centres of showmanship; its restaurants.
Indeed, both the culinary and the theatrical roots of the West End run deep, the latter stretching back to the dawning of the Restoration period in the 17th century, when the reopening of theatres marked an era of unbridled creativity, innovation and artistic expression.
Over the centuries, this district has evolved into a theatrical powerhouse, featuring remarkable venues from the grand and ornate, like the Royal Opera House, to the more intimate, such as the Ambassadors Theatre. Today, this legendary locale is synonymous with the best that theatre has to offer – a place where dreams take centre stage, where heartache and euphoria intermingle in tales of love, loss, and ambition.
Yet, the allure of the West End extends beyond its stunning performances. There is an intrinsic romance surrounding the tradition of attending theatre in this magical corner of London. Part of this allure comes from the cherished ritual of dining before the curtain rises – the pre-theatre meal.
The concept of a pre-theatre meal is as time-honoured as the West End itself, rooted in the practicality of dining early enough to ensure no late arrivals to the auditorium (and the disruption of rustling crisp packets once the show has begun).
However, it’s the convivial charm of these meals that has truly made them an enduring tradition. A moment of anticipation, where palate-pleasing cuisine gives way to the excitement of the impending performance – it’s a match made in heaven.
Today, we’re exploring that delicious opening act with an eye on our pockets, seeking out the best dinner deals, price fixes and set menus in the heart of London’s theatre district.
So, with that in mind, here’s where to find the best value pre-theatre menus in London’s West End.
Wild Honey, St. James
Ideal for effortless Modern European cuisine with an eminently reasonable price tag…
Chef Anthony Demetre is one of the most unassumingly influential chefs in the UK, and a man whose first restaurant Arbutus was credited with bringing the Modern European, small plates vibe to Central London long before pretty much every other restaurant in the UK was doing the same.
We’d go as far as to say that his Michelin-starred restaurant Wild Honey does the flagship pre-theatre menu in London. Running from Tuesdays through Saturdays from 5pm to 6:30pm, and packed out for each of those five early evenings, the proposition here is refreshingly simple; 3 courses of effortlessly faultless, always generous cooking for an eminently reasonable £40.
On a recent visit the crisp ox tongue with a properly piquant, mustard-heavy celeriac remoulade is a joy. Follow with a puck of pearlescent Cornish cod paired with the just in-season sweetcorn and impeccably prepared girolles, and end with a gently wobbling slice of custard tart, and you’ve got one of London’s best set menus, full stop. The fact that it’s light, bright and at times effervescent in its delivery feels just right before settling into the performance proper.
And if Demetre’s signature crispy chicken with hand-cut macaroni ‘Cacio e Pepe’ is on the menu, pre-theatre or not, order it. The dish is divine.
Ideal for Italian opulence and refined dining in the heart of the theatre district…
Tucked away on the lower ground floor of the luxury, high camp hotel Broadwick Soho, Dear Jackie is a destination that exudes Italian opulence and glamour, in that kind of big-hearted, extravagant way that we love so much about Bel Paese.
Located in the heart (or, should that be bowels?) of London’s theatre district, it’s the perfect spot for an early evening dinner before emerging blinking into the light, ready to once again be plunged into darkness at the theatre.
The recently launched pre-theatre menu at Dear Jackie is a curation of some of the restaurant’s most-loved dishes, served, in true Dear Jackie style, with a fair amount of flourish. The ambiance is set with Murano lighting, crimson silk walls, and plush banquettes, ensuring a truly special experience to sink into, even if you are only commencing your evening here, rather than the evening taking you over.
Guests have the option of either two courses for £28 or three for £34, making it an excellent value for the quality of cuisine on offer. Start your meal with light, zippy starters like sea bass crudo with navelina orange and fennel, or burrata served with fresh peas, asparagus, and white balsamic.
For mains, right now you can choose from dishes such as pork collar with roast treviso and salsa verde, seared yellowfin tuna served with salmoriglio (a Sicilian condiment of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and herbs that pairs beautifully with oily fish), or a bowl of orecchiette with Roman courgettes, datterini tomatoes, and smoked almonds, the latter a truly elegant reflection of the season.
No meal at Dear Jackie would be complete without one of their indulgent desserts, which chime succinctly with the sumptuous surroundings of this den of deliciousness. Round off your dining experience with a choice between tiramisu or a selection of ice creams and sorbets to end things on a sweet note.
The menu is available from Tuesday to Saturday for seatings between 5:30pm and 6:15pm.
Ideal for regional Italian food in the heart of Soho…
Here at IDEAL, our love of Soho restaurant Bocca di Luppo is no secret; it’s a place we come back to time and time again, never getting tired of chef Jacob Kennedy’s ode to regional Italian cuisine.
Whether it’s the Laziale salt-baked bream or the melting mangalitsa coppa from Emilia Romagna that’s served over bang-in-season slices of melon, there’s no restaurant in London more adept at transporting you to Bel Paese than this one.
Before your next bout of escapism in the nearby Apollo Theatre, you can first immerse yourself in Bocca di Luppo’s ‘Workers Lunch’ set menu, which, despite the name, runs until 6:30pm, Monday to Friday. For just £15 (!), it’s a three course, pasta or risotto-focused feast plus a salad, which has got to be the best value meal you’ll find in all of Central.
On a recent visit, the main course is an open-handed bowl of the Sicilian classic rigatoni all norma, all fudgy from deep-fried aubergines and umami-rich from tomatoes and salted ricotta. It’s joyous. Add a scoop of sorbet and an espresso for a fiver; the latter of which you’ll be thankful for as you take your seat for a two-hour play.
Here, in a bright and breezy dining room defined by blonde wood and cheery waitstaff, it’s a set menu designed for sharing – for £35 a head you won’t see the whites of your table for the veritable spread of perky vegetable-led dishes that are laid out in front of you.
Those dishes are unmistakably Ottolenghi, with jewel-like pomegranate seeds, preserved lemon, tahini, za’atar and sumac, as well as plenty of good quality olive oil, defining proceedings here. It’s a lovely light way to raise the curtain on an evening of theatre, but if you’re keen to loosen up a little before the show, then for an additional £16 you can enjoy several consummate paired glasses of wine to go with your food. Cheers to that!
The all-conquering British steakhouse needs little in the way of an introduction; there are now a dozen in operation, including a recent opening in New York that’s been receiving all the plaudits.
Though Hawksmoor isn’t necessarily known for its inclusive pricing, at the Seven Dials outpost, just a short hop from several West End theatres, you’ll find a commendably priced set menu, with two courses for £27 or three for £31. Steak, of course, features, here in the form of an à la minute sirloin and thin cut chips, and a very good steak frites it is, too. Honestly, you’ll be pleased it wasn’t one of the restaurant’s larger, heavier cuts when you’re bright eyed and bushy tailed come theatre time.
This one runs from Monday to Saturday, 5pm to 6.30pm
Ideal for celeb spotting with a side of Stateside staples…
There could be nowhere more fitting to end our round-up of the best value pre-theatre menus in the West End than at Joe Allen. Aside from the fantastic New York brasserie-style food and side order of celeb spotting (Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian Mckellen have both been known to dine here), you’ll find excellent value within these hallowed walls. The set menu (which runs until 9pm on Mondays and from midday to 6:45pm Tuesdays to Saturdays) is just £25 for two courses or £30 for three.
For that straightforward sum, you’ll get satisfying plates loosely inspired by what’s going on Stateside (or rather, what was going on around a century ago), whether that’s a refreshingly uncomplicated Caesar salad or a portion of back baby ribs with bread and butter pickles. Sneak in a pre (or even post) show cocktail in Joe’s Bar upstairs, and you’ve well and truly earnt your West End stripes.
Ideal for British cooking with bohemian spirit in the heart of theatreland…
As belts tighten across the UK, Soho’s pre-theatre dining scene seems to be expanding, with diners prioritising efficiency and affordability over languid luxuriating. In a striking corner spot where Brewer Street meets Warwick, Nessa brings a dash of art deco elegance to that scene, proving that a speedy meal needn’t be a gauche one.
Named after Bloomsbury Group artist Vanessa Bell (rather than, as some might assume, Ruth Jones’s Gavin & Stacey character), the restaurant occupies what was once The Warwick pub, now transformed into an elegant dining space by the team behind Mortimer House, anchored by tan and terracotta tones. When warmer months arrive, the al fresco tables under striped green awnings are sure to be among Soho’s most coveted spots, for the people watching as much as the food.
Not that the food doesn’t hit the mark. At the helm is chef Tom Cenci, formerly of Duck & Waffle and Loyal Tavern, whose menu deftly walks the line between comfort and creativity. The Nessa Express menu, served weekdays from 5pm until 6pm, offers exceptional value at £28 for two courses or £35 for three – perfectly designed to get you to the theatre in time for a glass of champagne before curtains up.
On the current menu, a beetroot and sheep’s cheese number, with granola for crunch and hot honey dressing for intrigue, kicks things off. Follow that with a suave artichoke ravioli, given heft and sweetness with an onion puree and nubs of glazed Jerusalem artichoke – it’s a gorgeous dish that’s full of surprises. There are meatier dishes too; a decidedly festive flat iron chicken with bread sauce sounds like just the ticket – anytime but in the run-up to Christmas, that is.
Desserts showcase Cenci’s flair for elevated British classics and are the highlight here – the cherry Bakewell with almond frosting and caramelised pecans is fast becoming a signature, a decadent affair that manages to be both light and satisfying.
If it’s on the express menu when you visit, try their carrot cake, which has the sumptuousness of a sticky toffee pudding and is drenched in a decadent buttery carrot caramel. The delicate cream cheese frosting on top lightens things and is topped intriguingly with a subtle sprinkle of dill powder – it’s one of the most memorable desserts we’ve eaten this year.
If you’ve worked up a thirst, slip into the adjacent bar for one of bar manager Floriano Cubeddu’s expertly crafted cocktails. The drinks list champions British producers and seasonal ingredients, perhaps try their Cuppa G&T with Cotswolds gin, Italicus, rose, and cherry, or their signature Boho Negroni featuring East London Gin, nectarine, and saffron. Or, you know, have both; and forget all about the play you’re now missing…
And with its prime location just minutes from the bright lights of Shaftesbury Avenue, Nessa perfectly positioned for an early dinner before the main event.
That pristine fence you invested in last year is already showing signs of wear. The panels are warping, the posts have developed an unsettling lean, and the whole structure has taken on that tired, weathered look that plagues British gardens nationwide. This isn’t bad luck—it’s the predictable result of poor material choices and rushed installations that cost homeowners thousands in unnecessary replacements.
The evidence is everywhere: in storm-damaged panels cluttering skip bins each winter and in the steady stream of emergency repairs after every major storm. Most British homeowners are unknowingly throwing money away on fencing that’s destined to fail within five years.
The True Cost Of Cheap Fencing
Expert opinion suggests that fences only last around six years before showing pronounced signs of wear and tear. Those budget-friendly lap panels—stacked temptingly by the entrance of every garden centre—are failing at an astonishing rate. Replacing a failed fence costs three times more than getting it right the first time, once you factor in removal and disposal fees.
Material Evolution: Beyond Traditional Timber
The fence material market has transformed dramatically, yet many homeowners remain unaware of the innovations that could save them thousands. Traditional treated softwood remains popular due to its accessible price point, but requires religious annual maintenance to reach its 10-15 year potential lifespan. Miss one treatment, and you’ve potentially halved your fence’s life expectancy.
Composite fencing represents a genuine leap forward. Modern composites offer sophisticated textures and a 25-year minimum lifespan with zero maintenance requirements. Their 15-20% higher initial investment typically pays for itself within six years through eliminated maintenance costs.
Cedar provides remarkable resistance to both rot and insect damage without chemical treatments, typically lasting 15-20 years with minimal intervention. While costlier than treated softwood, its reduced maintenance needs make it particularly suitable for gardens where aesthetic consistency matters more than initial savings.
Vinyl fencing, the latest evolution in fence technology, has overcome historical issues with UV degradation and thermal expansion. Modern systems offer sophisticated woodgrain textures that can withstand decades of British weather without fading or warping. Their 30-40 year lifespan makes the higher initial cost increasingly attractive for homeowners thinking beyond the five-year horizon.
The Science Of Stability
A fence is only as good as its foundations – a truth that becomes painfully evident during British winters. Post depth should reach at least 600mm in firm soil, extending to 750mm in clay or loose soil. Post thickness must increase proportionally with fence height: 100mm for standard garden fences, scaling up to 150mm for anything pushing height restrictions. The concrete mix ratio of 1:2:4 isn’t just builder’s lore but a scientifically determined formula that provides optimal strength while allowing enough flexibility to prevent cracking in frost.
Installation: Where Most Fences Fail
The gap between a fence that lasts five years and one that lasts twenty often has little to do with materials and everything to do with installation technique. Professional installation typically adds £80-100 per panel to your project—a cost that many try to avoid. However, this decision often proves catastrophically expensive.
Each post hole needs proper drainage preparation—a step often skipped in DIY installations. The gravel layer at the base of each post isn’t optional; it’s essential for preventing water accumulation that leads to rot, algae and frost heave. Ground preparation makes or breaks a fence’s longevity. Removing all organic material from post holes prevents future subsidence.
The Bottom Line
A properly specified and installed fence should deliver at least 15 years of service with minimal maintenance. Quality materials command £75-120 per metre, with professional installation adding £40-60 per metre. While these figures suggest significant upfront costs, they pale compared with the £150-200 per metre cost of replacement, including removal of failed fencing.
Consider a typical 20-metre garden boundary. Budget installation might save £1,000 initially but typically requires complete replacement within five years. Factor in the cost of multiple replacements over 15 years, plus ongoing repairs and maintenance, and that initial saving transforms into a £2,000 loss. This figure doesn’t include the disruption of repeated installations or the gradual degradation of garden aesthetics between replacements.
The British garden fence represents a significant investment in property value and lifestyle quality. Understanding the technical aspects of fencing allows homeowners to make informed decisions that save thousands over the long term while delivering the security and aesthetics they actually seek. In an era of rising property maintenance costs, getting fencing right the first time has never been more crucial.
Perth’s reputation for endless sunshine can lull visitors into a false sense of security. While the city enjoys around 265 days of sun annually, those other 100 days can catch tourists off guard, especially during the winter months from June to August when sudden squalls roll in from the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re fearing being holed up in a Perth hotel for a week or you’re visiting the City of Lights just for the day, rest assured that some of the city’s best experiences actually happen indoors.
Art Gallery Of Western Australia
As the state’s premier art institution, this modernist concrete building anchors the Perth Cultural Centre, housing one of Australia’s finest collections of Indigenous art. The rooftop sculpture park offers spectacular city views and thought-provoking installations, worth visiting even in light rain. The Indigenous art section on Level 2 is particularly compelling, featuring rotating exhibitions of Western Australian Aboriginal artists.
Pro tip: Time your visit for Wednesday afternoons when local artists often give informal talks about their work. The gallery’s café, AGWA Café, serves some of the best flat whites in the Cultural Centre precinct.
WA Maritime Museum
Situated on Victoria Quay in historic Fremantle, this striking contemporary building celebrates Western Australia’s relationship with the sea. While the submarine tour draws most visitors, the real gems are the museum’s lesser-known exhibits.
The Shipwreck Galleries in the separate Commissariat building houses artefacts from the Batavia, one of Australia’s most infamous shipwrecks. The museum’s location in Fremantle means visitors can duck into nearby Bread in Common for lunch, a restored warehouse serving incredible sourdough and local produce.
Independent Cinemas
Perth’s independent cinema scene offers far more character than the mainstream multiplexes. The Backlot, tucked away in West Perth’s business district, is an intimate 50-seat cinema beloved by local film industry insiders that screens advance previews and rare indie films. Their membership programme includes invites to filmmaker Q&As and special screenings. If you’re in Northbridge, the heritage-listed Paradiso offers £5 tickets on Mondays and serves local craft beers – perfect for a rainy evening.
The Nostalgia Box
The Nostalgia Box, Australia’s first and only museum dedicated to video game history, sits in a converted warehouse in Northbridge. This unique venue is more than just retro games – it’s a living museum of technological evolution. The owner, Jessie, regularly hosts tournaments on classic consoles, and their collection includes rare Australian-released games found nowhere else. Thursday evenings are particularly special, when local gaming developers often drop by to test their newest projects on visitors.
One of Perth’s most unique landmarks, the Bell Tower is home to the historic bells of Saint Martin-in-the-Fields. Situated overlooking the picturesque Swan River, the Bell Tower offers an interactive, educational experience for all ages. Visitors can enjoy the striking architecture, take part in bell ringing demonstrations, and learn about the tower’s incredible history. The Observation Deck provides stunning panoramic views of the city and river, a sight that is especially impressive during a passing storm.
Perth’s Day Spas
While the city offers numerous spa options, Bodhi J in Wembley stands out for its thoughtful approach to wellness. Their indigenous-inspired Li’Tya treatments use native Australian ingredients and traditional healing techniques. The Marta Kodo treatment combines pressure point therapy with rainforest-scented oils – ideal for easing travel-worn muscles. Advance booking is essential as they’re usually booked out weeks ahead.
The Perth Mint
Standing as Australia’s oldest operating mint, this heritage-listed limestone building has been striking coins since 1899. While the gold pour demonstration draws crowds, the vault tours (bookable in advance) offer the rare opportunity to handle a 400-ounce gold bar worth millions. The 1:30 pm tours sometimes include access to the heritage vault, displaying rare coins from the mint’s opening year. The gift shop sells unique jewellery featuring pink diamonds from the Argyle mine – a truly Western Australian souvenir.
Historic Shopping Arcades
Rather than heading to modern shopping centres, explore the historic London Court, a weather-protected Tudor-style arcade between Hay and St Georges Terrace. This architectural gem, built in 1937, recreates the atmosphere of medieval England. Pigeonhole offers uniquely Western Australian gifts, while Western Australian Pen Specialists crafts writing instruments from local timber. Creative Native stocks genuine Indigenous art with certification of authenticity.
Indoor Climbing
Located in Malaga, City Summit isn’t just another climbing gym – it’s the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The recently added crack climbing section prepares enthusiasts for scaling the granite peaks in Margaret River. Tuesday evening technique classes welcome beginners, and professional climbers from the Southwest regularly host guest workshops.
Multi-venue RAC member passes offer good value for stays longer than a week
Perth’s unpredictable weather adds to the city’s character. These indoor activities aren’t just wet-weather alternatives – they’re essential experiences that reveal a different side of this sun-soaked city. Whether dodging a summer storm or escaping winter winds, these spots will see you right.
Here’s a fun fact that you’ve definitely heard before; our skin is the body’s largest organ. Not only that, but it also plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and wellness, and however many times you’ve heard that, it still bears repeating. Yep, your skin is one very impressive part of you.
Among its many functions, the skin protects the body against infection, regulates body temperature, and controls vitamin D production. They say that your skin’s condition speaks volumes about your overall health, and, as such, a radiant glow should be treated as something so much more than simply cosmetic.
In this modern age of innovation and scientific research, there are now a number of incredible skin care ingredients that can have radical benefits for your skin, and your health in general. As such, you should be scrutinising cosmetics labels accordingly for their presence. With that in mind, here are 11 skin care ingredients you should be prioritising.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps to improve the appearance of your skin by brightening it and making it look more radiant. It can also help protect your skin from environmental damage.
Now, one of the beauty industry’s go-to vitamins for improving your skin’s appearance is Vitamin C, and once you know that, you’ll start to notice that it’s infused in everything from moisturisers to serums.
Combined with your daily skincare routine, applying Vitamin C topically to your skin in serum form can encourage collagen production, helping reduce wrinkles and blemishes.
And of course, getting Vitamin C in your diet will also help with collagen production, too. Is there anything it can’t do?!
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that’s naturally produced by our skin cells, playing an important role in maintaining the skin’s moisture levels. The skin can often be deficient in this important acid, however, thanks to factors such as environmental contaminants, or simply due to age.
This deficiency then causes the skin to dry out, often causing dullness, skin sensitivity, uneven tone and texture, and fine lines. The easy and natural fix? Apply hyaluronic acid to your skin in order to replenish these levels. Accordingly, you will find it as an ingredient in some moisturisers and serums.
It should be noted that having the name acid in the title is a little misleading as hyaluronic acid is a super nourishing and hydrating ingredient.
Retinol
Retinol based products are becoming increasingly common in skincare products, because retinoids help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
As you age, changes happen to your skin in tandem, and you may start seeing fine lines, one of the earlier signs of ageing. Because the skin loses its elasticity, it also becomes thinner and more prone to damage from environmental factors like pollutants and the sun’s harmful UV rays. After a while, the lines deepen, forming wrinkles visible on the face, neck, and hands. Enter retinol.
This substance can be effective in smoothing the surface area of the skin, aiding with the overall appearance. If using retinol based products, it’s recommended that they’re applied according to the particular product’s instructions, but generally only in the evening or at night (for example before bed) as this will make the skin sensitive to sunlight after application.
You’ll find this as a popular ingredient in night creams, but retinol products can be strong and, accordingly, shouldn’t be approached flippantly. It’s vital to seek out only trusted names for skincare products, such as SkinCeuticals Retinol, whose product helps minimise lines and wrinkles, are soothing and gentle to the skin, and promotes a healthier glow.
Vitamin E Skincare
Vitamin E is especially beneficial for helping to prevent early signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. Indeed, vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin against free radicals and other collagen destroying pollutants. It also has major moisturising and soothing properties and it’s great for dry skin. Oh, and it’s often called tocopherol in ingredients labels, just in case you’re truly scrutinising those labels.
Avocado Oil
Scientists have known for some time that avocado oil has many benefits when ingested as part of a varied diet. Many of these positives can also be enjoyed when applied to the skin, meaning that we are now seeing this oil incorporated as an ingredient in skincare products.
Most particularly, avocado oil is rich in fatty acids which helps the skin to heal issues and blemishes, and has been found to improve symptoms of psoriasis, a skin condition that manifests in bumpy red and white scaly patches on the skin. Not just for brunch, indeed.
Squalane might sound like a scientific mystery, but it’s actually a skin-loving ingredient that your body is already familiar with. Our skin naturally produces squalene (note the ‘e’), but our production decreases as we age. This is where squalane (with an ‘a’) comes in – it’s the more stable, skincare-friendly version derived from plant sources like olive oil and sugarcane.
fThis lightweight oil absorbs quickly without feeling heavy or greasy, helping to lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. You’ll often find it in facial cleansing products, where it excels at gently dissolving makeup and daily grime while maintaining the skin’s moisture balance – none of that tight, stripped feeling that some cleansers can leave behind.
Squalane suits virtually all skin types, from dry to oily and even sensitive skin, and appears in various products from facial oils to moisturisers. For those concerned about sustainability, most brands now source their squalane from plant-based alternatives rather than traditional shark-derived sources.
Nanosilver
Nanosilver, as the name suggests, is micro particles of the precious metal, silver. Silver has been shown to have powerful properties when it comes to combating bacteria, viruses and fungi. It has therefore been widely used as an antibacterial treatment in medicine. Nanosilver, in turn, has started to be used in cosmetics and skincare products as a powerful cleansing component, but it’s important to note that debate continues as to whether it’s beneficial or harmful, overall, to the skin.
Argan oil is a natural oil which is derived from the kernels of the fruit of the north African argan tree. This oil has been a part of Moroccan cuisine for a very long time, and in more recent times has been incorporated into medicinal use for its range of beneficial properties, from antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to possible preventative effects for heart disease and diabetes.
These benefits have now been realised by the cosmetic industry, with argan oil now available for both application to the skin, and as an ingredient in topical products. Through this kind of application, argan oil is a powerful moisturiser, as well as helping to treat skin conditions, acne, and helping to heal wounds and infections.
Alpha Hydroxyl Acids(AHAs)
Alpha hydroxyl acids are also known as AHAs, and are natural acids most commonly derived from citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons, as well as, sometimes, other natural ingredients such as sugar cane, grapes and even milk. AHAs are a highly effective exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and therefore improving the clarity and smoothness of the skin.
By exfoliating the skin and removing dead cells, you may also help to improve underlying skin issues such as age spots, acne and wrinkles.
Types of AHAs include:
Phytic acid which one of the more gentle AHAs and is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
Glycolic acid is known for brightening and refining skin texture and tone. It’s a great exfoliator too.
Salicylic Acid(BHA)
Salicylic acid can help unclog pores and prevent breakouts by dissolving excess sebum on your skin surface. It is a common ingredient in anti-acne products. However, overuse can result in dehydration, so it’s not recommended to use products containing salicylic acid everyday. Always consult with the specific product’s packaging for accurate instructions on how best to use salicylic acid in your skincare routine.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is also known a vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid. It can be beneficial for the health and appearance of skin in multiple ways, such as managing uneven skin tone, reducing pore size, improving skin dullness and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
It works by acting on the natural components in the skin to encourage the skin to improve its barrier, which acts to defend skin cells from environmental factors and so improve dullness, large pores, wrinkles and other external signs. Like many of the ingredients on our list, its active components can be absorbed by the skin for almost instant effect. One of the stand-out advantages of niacinamide is that it is extremely versatile; it’s suitable for almost every skin type and can be used with skin which has pretty much any type of condition.
And with that, we’re off to wash our face; we think we’ve sampled a few too many products in the course of writing this article!
Maybe it’s the hipster in us. Is a possible environmental sustainability at its heart? Or perhaps the current economic climate and state of confusion over our country’s collective capital makes it a necessity. But whatever the reason, ‘upcycling’ has taken the design world by storm in recent years.
Upcycling – repurposing old bits from around the house and casting them in new, exciting roles – provides an opportunity for homeowners to show off their creativity, and to make a lasting impression on guests with thoughtful reinventions of old items. And we think that the bedroom is the ideal domain for an upcycling enthusiast, as it offers the most opportunities for creative home decor. So if you’re looking to give the unloved a new lease of life, then read on; our 10 great upcycling ideas for your bedroom.
Storage Ladders
If you have an old ladder taking up unnecessary amounts of space in your attic, then consider redeploying it as a charming and rustic storage item instead. The beauty of ladder upcycling lies in its versatility – wooden ones bring warmth and character, while metal varieties can add an industrial edge to your space.
Start by giving your ladder a thorough clean and safety check. Any loose rungs should be secured, and sharp edges sanded down. Then, depending on your style preferences, you might want to give it a fresh coat of paint – chalk paints work particularly well for that fashionable farmhouse look, while metal paint in matte black can create a more contemporary aesthetic.
The real creative fun begins with how you use it. The ladder rungs can store rolled-up towels and blankets, creating an attractive display of different textures and colours. For book lovers, wider rungs make perfect impromptu shelving – just be sure to arrange your books thoughtfully, perhaps colour-coding them for extra visual impact. Plant enthusiasts might hang trailing varieties like pothos or string of pearls, transforming their ladder into a vertical garden. You could even add some battery-operated fairy lights for a cosy evening ambiance.
Pro tip: If you’re working with a particularly tall ladder, consider cutting it down to size or using it horizontally above a desk or bed for an unexpected storage solution.
Transitioning Your Children’s Furniture Into Teen-Friendly Bits
Time flies fast, and before you know it, your child steps into the teenage years. While your kid’s furniture for bedrooms might have served them well through childhood – with its cheerful colours and whimsical designs – teenagers need something that reflects their evolving tastes and growing independence.
Fear not! There’s no need for a major shopping spree. Those cherished pieces of children’s furniture can be transformed into sophisticated items that your teen will love. Take that colourful kiddie study table and give it a mature spin with neutralising hues like cool greys or muted blues. Add some stencilled patterns or geometric designs for a more personalised touch. Even themed kid’s furniture for bedrooms can be reimagined – that princess castle bookshelf could become an industrial-style display unit with some chalk paint and new hardware.
This approach not only fits your adolescent’s evolving tastes but also preserves memories of yesteryear, all while being kind to both the environment and your wallet. The key is to look at each piece with fresh eyes – that bright yellow desk chair might just need a sleek charcoal cover to become the perfect gaming seat.
Create Lamps From Old Junk
Almost anything can be made into a lamp, you just need to bring the bulb. You can use old wine or spirit bottles for an edgy, hipster lighting effect, but bear in mind that upcycling is most effective when you pair your items appropriately; an upcycled bottle lamp on top of a cheap, plastic bedside table won’t look good, for instance.
For a neat upcycled lamp aesthetic, you’ll want it standing on something that’s preferably wooden and looks approximately rustic – a piece of old tree trunk (sustainably sourced and checked for mites, of course!) is perfect here.
Turn Trash Into Tables
Speaking of which…
The classic upcycling rule goes; if it’s box-shaped, it’s a coffee table. One of the most popular upcycling ideas recently has involved using old cages, particularly crab catching cages, and turning them into tables for a raw, industrial look. Crabs, sadly, don’t come included. Crates are also popular options, with an inventive repurposing of wine crates being particularly in vogue.
Worn Out Can Be Warmth
You can also simply upcycle old furniture, sprucing it up with minimal effort, to maximum effect. If you have a beaten-up chest of drawers that could do with replacing, opt instead for simply repainting a small section of it with a bold colour, preferably in pastel or matte. Just re-paint one or two of the drawers, and leave the rest untouched. This makes your tired old furniture look like a conscious and deliberate design choice – one that guests won’t forget. After all, worn out, in the right hands, can be turned to warmth.
Upcycled Art
Rather than splashing out on vintage posters or paintings, creating your own upcycled art can add a deeply personal touch to your bedroom walls. The beauty of this approach is that literally anything can become art when thoughtfully presented – it’s all about context and creative vision.
Framing old wallpaper is particularly on-trend right now, especially if you can get your hands on vintage designs with bold patterns or interesting textures. Try creating a triptych effect by framing three complementary sections in identical frames. For book lovers, carefully chosen pages can create stunning wall art – consider framing a particularly beautiful passage from your favourite novel, or creating a collage of meaningful quotes.
If you’re working with fabric pieces like old rugs or tapestries, consider creating a hanging system that shows off their texture. A simple wooden dowel with some elegant cord can transform even the most humble piece into a striking wall hanging. Remember, the frame itself can be part of your upcycling project – old picture frames can be refreshed with paint or decorative papers, creating a cohesive look that ties your room together.
Storage Crates As Bedside Tables
If the thought of throwing away sturdy storage crates irks you, simply upcycle them into practical bedside tables. All it needs is a whisk of paint and varnish, amalgamating with your existing decorating style. This can also serve as a mini bookshelf!
The beauty of using crates lies in their versatility. Stack two or three together to create different configurations – horizontally for a wider surface area, or vertically for a taller unit with multiple cubby holes. You might even consider adding castors to the bottom for easy mobility, particularly useful if you like to rearrange your bedroom layout seasonally.
For a more polished look, line the inside of the crates with wallpaper offcuts or fabric remnants, instantly transforming that rustic storage solution into something altogether more sophisticated. Remember that different crates bring different characters – wine crates often come with interesting typography that can add personality, while plain wooden fruit crates provide a perfect blank canvas for your creative vision.
Containers Turned Plant Holders
Resurrect your old ceramic containers, tin cans or colourful old water jugs by turning them into interesting plant holders. Not only do they add a dash of life to your bedroom corners but also serve as surprising décor elements. Your indoor plants might be a little confused by their new homes at first, but hey, they’ll get used to it!
Upcycle Vinyl Records Into Unique Wall Clocks
Have any old vinyl records gathering dust in the store room? Bring them back to life with a quartz clock movement, instantly transforming them into eye-catching wall clocks. You’ll be punking up your wall with a timepiece that’s thoroughly unique and a genuine talking point when visitors spy your room.
Transform Old Doors Into Statement Headboards
If you’re hunting for a show-stopping headboard that tells a story, look no further than that old door languishing in your garden shed. Old doors, with their weathered patina and characterful imperfections, make for spectacular headboard transformations that bring instant personality to your bedroom. The beauty of this upcycling project lies in its versatility – whether you’re working with a simple panelled door or an ornate Victorian number with original brass fittings, each will create its own unique statement.
For a rustic look, simply clean up your door and let its natural wear shine through. If you’re after something more polished, a coat of chalk paint and some gentle distressing can work wonders. The door’s original fixtures and handles can be left in place to add interest, or removed for a sleeker finish. And here’s a clever trick – if your door comes with a letterbox, it makes an ideal shelf for your morning cup of tea or current bedtime read!
Remember, though – always check old paint for lead before sanding, and ensure your chosen door is properly secured to the wall. After all, the best upcycling projects marry style with safety.
Clothes Hanger Rack From A Broken Chair
Turn an unneeded chair into a wall-mounted clothes hanger rack. Start by removing the back of the chair, smoothen the surface, paint it in a vibrant colour and simply fix it to the wall. Here’s a hat rack for the coats, hats or simply for draping clothes.
Don’t limit your upcycling endeavours to the ideas we’ve mentioned. Let your imagination run wild, and you really can make your room a haven of creativity. Go on, get transforming!
“Skip the sunset camel ride photos that flood Instagram,” says Ahmed, a veteran desert guide of 15 years and friend of IDEAL for three. “The real magic of Dubai’s desert happens when you dig deeper.”
He’s right, you know. After spending two weeks testing every desert adventure Dubai offers (and quietly regretting some/several/many tourist traps), here’s your no-nonsense guide to what’s actually worth your time and money.
Hot Air Ballooning: Worth The 4am Wake-Up Call?
That brutal 4am alarm might make you question your life choices, but here’s why a Dubai hot air balloon experience truly deserves its spot on your bucket list: Imagine floating silently above an endless ocean of golden dunes as the first rays of sunrise paint the sky in impossible colors. Below, Arabian oryx leave delicate tracks across pristine sand, and gazelles bound gracefully through the morning mist. The silence up there, broken only by the occasional burst of the balloon’s burner, creates a moment of pure desert magic that no ground-based activity can match.
December through February offers the most reliable conditions, with flights running consistently thanks to stable weather. Expect cancellations if winds exceed 25km/h or visibility drops – this isn’t just cautious operators, it’s crucial for safety. The entire experience takes around 4-5 hours, with actual flight time typically between 40-60 minutes. Most operators provide a light breakfast, but bring your own water.
Your morning starts long before sunrise with hotel pickup, but here’s a pro tip: book for your first morning in Dubai when you’re still jet-lagged. You’ll thank yourself later. Most providers allow GPS tracking and photos during the flight, perfect for capturing your route across the dunes.
Essential packing:
Warm layers (desert mornings are surprisingly cold)
Camera with spare batteries
Sunglasses for post-sunrise glare
Hat that won’t blow off easily
Quad Biking: The Desert’s Ultimate Thrill Ride
Think of quad biking across Dubai’s dunes as a dance – one where you’re constantly reading the terrain, adjusting your balance, and working with the sand rather than fighting it. Once you’ve mastered the basic techniques, you’ll discover a thrill that’s equal parts technical skill and pure adrenaline. The best part? Every day brings a different desert, as overnight winds reshape the landscape into fresh challenges.
Don’t fall for the quick-thrill offerings that plague tourist hotspots. A proper desert quad experience needs at least two hours, giving you time to master the basics before tackling more challenging terrain. Morning sessions offer the best conditions, when visibility is clear and winds typically stay below 30km/h – crucial for keeping dust levels manageable. If you’re an experienced rider, let your guide know; they can often customize routes to offer more challenging terrain.
Safety standards vary dramatically between operators. Look for small group sizes (never more than eight bikes), thorough safety briefings, and well-maintained vehicles. Anyone with recent back injuries or pregnancy should sit this one out, but otherwise, basic fitness and balance are all you need to get started.
Essential gear:
Bandana or neck scarf (prevents sand inhalation)
Long sleeves and trousers (sand burns at speed)
Closed shoes with ankle support
Sunglasses with strap
Desert Safari: The Real Deal vs Tourist Trap
A desert safari in Dubai can either be the highlight of your trip or a crowded disappointment – and the difference often lies in the details. The best safaris unfold like chapters in an Arabian adventure, beginning with heart-pumping dune bashing and ending with authentic cultural experiences under the stars. Skip the mass-market camps and opt for smaller, more authentic experiences where you can actually hear the desert’s silence.
Quality experiences start with the basics: modern 4x4s, certified desert drivers, and small groups of maximum six people per vehicle. Your driver should provide a proper safety briefing and clearly explain the day’s itinerary. The best operators have access to private conservation areas, where wildlife sightings are more common and the dunes remain pristine.
Morning safaris offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities, though sunset tours provide those classic Arabian nights experiences. Eat lightly before any dune bashing session, and consider bringing motion sickness pills if you’re prone to queasiness. Keep your camera in a dust-proof bag – the desert isn’t kind to electronics.
Sandboarding: Desert Slopes Without The Lift Queue
Swapping snow for sand brings a whole new dimension to board sports. The fundamentals might feel familiar to snowboarders, but sand demands its own techniques and rewards you with unique thrills. The biggest difference? Your legs will feel every climb back up those dunes – but the virgin slopes and endless lines make it worth the burn.
Early mornings provide ideal conditions, before the sand heats up and while it retains some moisture from the night air – this actually improves grip and speed control. Start on gentler slopes; sand requires a wider stance than snow and more weight on your back foot. You’ll need to wax your board more frequently than on snow, and expect to empty sand from your shoes after every run.
First-timers should listen carefully to guide recommendations on dune selection. What looks like an easy slope can hide challenging variations in sand density. Take regular breaks between climbs – the desert heat can sneak up on you, even during cooler months.
What to wear:
Long socks (crucial for sand protection)
Athletic clothes you don’t mind getting dusty
Face protection (bandana or neck gaiter)
Sunglasses with good coverage
Dune Yoga: Sunrise Salutations In Nature’s Studio
There’s something profoundly different about doing your sun salutations while actually watching the sun rise over endless dunes. Desert yoga sessions offer more than just exercise – they’re a chance to experience the desert’s legendary silence and connect with this ancient landscape in a unique way.
Sessions typically begin 30 minutes before sunrise, with small groups of no more than 12 people. The practice usually runs 60-90 minutes, suitable for all experience levels. Many instructors incorporate meditation elements, taking advantage of the desert’s natural stillness. Stay for the traditional tea ceremony afterward – it’s often when the best local insights are shared.
Pack light but smart: desert mornings start cool but warm up quickly. Most operators provide mats, but a small hand towel proves invaluable. Consider bringing a camera for those stunning sunrise moments, but remember to stay present in the experience.
Essential preparation:
Arrive well-hydrated
Wear layers that can be easily removed
Bring breakfast/snacks for after
Pack sun protection
Fat Biking: Two-Wheeled Desert Exploration
Fat biking across the dunes offers a unique blend of exercise and exploration. Special wide-tired bikes let you cruise across the sand with surprising ease, accessing areas that even 4x4s can’t reach. It’s a workout, certainly, but one that comes with unprecedented access to pristine desert landscapes.
Success requires adjusting your normal cycling technique. Lower tire pressures than you’d expect, frequent standing on descents, and maintaining momentum across flats are crucial skills your guide will teach. Routes stick to marked trails, both for safety and conservation. The desert ecosystem is fragile, and responsible operators ensure minimal impact while maximizing your experience.
You’ll need moderate fitness and basic cycling experience, but technical mountain biking skills aren’t necessary. The wide tires provide surprising stability, though leg strength definitely comes in handy on longer dunes. Early morning rides offer the best conditions, when the sand is slightly firmer and temperatures are manageable.
Must-bring items:
Cycling gloves
Secure water bottle (at least 1.5L)
Energy snacks
Basic first aid supplies
Essential Dubai Desert Know-How
The desert’s magic lies in timing and preparation. November through March offers perfect conditions, while shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) require careful planning around the heat. Summer adventures should stick strictly to early mornings.
Desert temperatures can swing dramatically – a scorching afternoon can transform into a chilly evening. Pack layers and always bring more water than you think you’ll need. Power banks are crucial; cold mornings and hot afternoons drain phone batteries faster than you’d expect.
Watch for hidden costs that can spoil the experience. Many camps charge extra for everything from camera rentals to “premium” viewing positions. Book directly when possible, and always get clarity on what’s included before paying.
A Note On Conservation
Dubai’s desert holds centuries of natural and cultural heritage. The best operators balance adventure with preservation, staying on designated tracks and maintaining safe distances from wildlife. They employ local guides who share authentic insights rather than rehearsed scripts. Your choices matter – responsible tourism helps preserve these experiences for future generations, ensuring the desert’s magic endures beyond the Instagram era.
Let’s be honest here: with the average UK wedding now costing upwards of £20,000, it’s no wonder more and more British couples are looking abroad for their big day. And who can blame them? Guaranteed sunshine (well, more guaranteed than here), stunning backdrops, and – crucially – a significantly smaller bill at the end of it all.
If you’re considering taking your nuptials to sunnier shores, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up the most beloved European wedding destinations that won’t break the bank. Passport at the ready, then; here’s how to have your dream wedding for less…
Lisbon: Portugal’s Sun-Soaked Gem
Perched across seven hills, Lisbon is a city that seems made for romance. Picture your ceremony in an azulejo-tiled palace, or your reception in a rooftop venue overlooking the Tagus River as the sun sets. The city’s famous golden light (beloved by photographers) means your wedding photos will be nothing short of magical.
The surrounding area offers even more possibilities. Sintra, with its fairytale palaces and misty forests, provides an enchanting backdrop for ceremonies. Meanwhile, the coastal town of Cascais combines beautiful beaches with elegant 19th-century architecture – perfect for sophisticated seaside celebrations.
Money-Saving Tips:
Look at venues in nearby Cascais or Sintra for better deals
Portuguese wine is exceptional and incredibly reasonable – look for vinho verde for summer weddings
As is the seafood and other celebratory meals. Some of the best Lisbon restaurants are sprawling places just perfect for that reception meal.
Many historic quintas (manor houses) offer complete packages that work out cheaper than booking everything separately
Consider a Sunday wedding – they’re less popular locally, so venues often offer better rates
Imagine exchanging vows against a backdrop of Gaudí’s whimsical architecture, or celebrating your reception in a centuries-old villa overlooking the Mediterranean. Barcelona offers an intoxicating mix of old and new, where medieval Gothic spires sit alongside modernist masterpieces.
The city’s beach clubs provide stunning seafront venues, and any wedding planner in Barcelona will tell you that the surrounding Catalonian countryside plays host to romantic masias (traditional farmhouses) that make perfect wedding venues. For the food-obsessed couple, Barcelona’s renowned gastronomy scene means your wedding breakfast could be anything from a traditional Spanish feast to innovative Michelin-starred cuisine.
Money-Saving Tips:
Consider venues in up-and-coming neighbourhoods like Poblenou (think converted industrial spaces with character) or El Born rather than the Gothic Quarter
Book during shoulder season (March-May or September-October) for better rates
Many venues include catering in their packages – opt for local Spanish cuisine rather than international options
Take advantage of local cava instead of champagne (trust us, your guests won’t mind!)
Look at venues like Can Valldaura, a sustainable venue in Collserola Natural Park, for better rates than city-centre locations
Split: Croatia’s Historic Coastal Charmer
Forget Dubrovnik’s Game of Thrones pricing – Split offers equally impressive historical backdrops without the premium price tag. The UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace forms the heart of the old town, where ancient Roman walls house buzzing restaurants and atmospheric squares perfect for celebrations.
Just outside the city, you’ll find gorgeous islands like Brač and Hvar, where you could marry in a lavender field or an ancient olive grove. The Dalmatian coast’s famous light makes every moment photo-worthy, while the region’s excellent food and wine scene means your guests will be well-fed for a fraction of UK prices.
Money-Saving Tips:
Book outside July-August for significantly better rates
Consider nearby islands like Brač for more affordable venues
Local Croatian food and wine offers excellent value
Many venues don’t charge corkage fees – a massive saving!
Look at converted konobas (traditional wine cellars) for atmospheric reception venues
Malta: Year-Round Wedding Potential
With its honey-coloured stone buildings, crystal-clear waters, and over 300 days of sunshine annually, Malta offers an irresistible combination for wedding planners. The island’s historic palazzos and baroque churches provide gorgeous ceremony venues, while sea-view terraces and beach clubs offer stunning reception locations.
Valletta, the tiny capital, is packed with elegant venues – think grand baroque buildings with internal courtyards perfect for intimate ceremonies. Meanwhile, the former capital Mdina, known as the ‘Silent City’, offers a medieval atmosphere and spectacular views across the island.
Money-Saving Tips:
Look at Gozo for more reasonable venue hire – try the historic farmhouses or boutique hotels
Winter weddings here are still gloriously sunny but much cheaper
Local suppliers often cost significantly less than their UK counterparts
Many hotels offer free wedding packages when booking a certain number of rooms
Consider historic venues like Palazzo Parisio’s gardens for better value than hotel packages
For many, the dream of an affordable European wedding is complemented by practical solutions like a cash wedding registry. This allows couples to fund their adventures and really make the most of their special day abroad.
Puglia: Italy’s Stylish Southern Alternative
Hold on to your confetti, because we’re about to let you in on something special. While the crowds (and their euros) flock to Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast, savvy couples are heading to Italy’s heel for a slice of authentic Italian romance at a fraction of the price.
Puglia offers everything you’d expect from an Italian wedding – historic architecture, incredible food, world-class wine – but without the eye-watering price tag of its northern cousins. Think ceremonies in ancient olive groves, receptions in converted masserias (fortified farmhouses), and dancing under the stars in cone-roofed trulli houses.
The region’s whitewashed towns, like Ostuni (nicknamed ‘The White City’), provide a photographer’s dream backdrop. Meanwhile, the baroque splendour of Lecce, often called ‘The Florence of the South’, offers elegant city venues without Florence’s premium prices. And let’s not forget those beaches – stretches of powder-white sand and turquoise waters that could easily pass for the Caribbean (if the Caribbean served orecchiette pasta and burrata).
Money-Saving Tips:
Look inland rather than at coastal venues – you’ll still be no more than 20 minutes from the sea
Consider restored masserias in the Valle d’Itria – they often offer better value than more tourist-heavy areas
Some trulli complexes in Alberobello offer venue hire at surprisingly reasonable rates
Take advantage of the incredible local wine – Primitivo and Negroamaro offer outstanding value
Book a local chef for traditional Pugliese cuisine rather than formal catering – it’s both more authentic and more affordable
Consider May or late September when temperatures are perfect but prices are lower
The Practicalities Of Planning
Timing Is Everything
Book midweek if possible – you’ll often save up to 40% on venue hire. Plus, your guests can turn your wedding into their holiday! Many of these destinations offer excellent shoulder season weather – think warm days and pleasant evenings without the peak summer crowds.
Local Suppliers
Source local photographers, florists, and musicians rather than flying them from the UK. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also benefit from their local knowledge and connections. Most popular destinations have English-speaking wedding planners who can help coordinate everything.
Package Deals
Many venues offer all-inclusive packages that work out significantly cheaper than arranging everything separately. Don’t dismiss them without running the numbers first. Often, they’ll include elements you might not have thought of, like local wedding licence arrangements.
Currency Considerations
Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider paying larger deposits when the rate is favourable. Setting up a currency transfer account could save you hundreds.
Let’s be realistic here; while a wedding abroad might seem like an extravagant choice, it often works out considerably cheaper than a UK celebration. Plus, you’re practically guaranteed better weather photos than anything shot in Birmingham in November (no offence, Brum).
Remember though, wherever you choose, booking well in advance is crucial – particularly if you’re eyeing up those peak summer months. And perhaps most importantly, don’t forget to check the local marriage laws. Nothing kills the romance quite like discovering your dream ceremony isn’t legally binding!
While many fret about artificial intelligence making jobs obsolete, a different story is unfolding in the job market. AI isn’t just eliminating roles – it’s making certain careers significantly more lucrative. As organisations scramble to harness AI effectively, professionals who can work alongside these new technologies are commanding ever-higher salaries.
Recent employment data and market analysis suggest several roles are set to offer particularly impressive compensation packages in 2025. These aren’t just jobs that will survive the AI revolution—they’re positions that are becoming more valuable precisely because of it.
Prompt Engineers: The New Power Players
Once an obscure specialisation, prompt engineering has emerged as one of the most sought-after skills in the tech industry. These professionals craft the instructions that make AI systems produce useful results, and they’re rapidly becoming indispensable to organisations adopting AI technology.
The role doesn’t necessarily require traditional coding skills – instead, it rewards clear thinking and creative problem-solving. The market reflects this demand: salaries start at £80,000 and can exceed £150,000 for experienced professionals, with major tech companies and financial institutions particularly eager to secure top talent.
Integration Specialists: The Workplace Diplomats
As companies rush to adopt AI systems, they’re learning a hard lesson: technology alone isn’t enough. Integration specialists ensure new AI tools actually help rather than hinder the workforce. Their role combines technical expertise with change management, focusing on making AI systems genuinely useful in day-to-day operations.
This combination of technical knowledge and people skills commands serious money. Salaries typically range from £70,000 to £120,000, with performance bonuses often pushing total compensation significantly higher.
Ethics Officers: The Moral Compass
With AI systems making increasingly important decisions, ethics officers have moved from optional extras to essential team members. These professionals ensure AI systems are fair, transparent, and responsible—no small task when algorithms can affect thousands or millions of lives.
Major companies are paying anywhere from £90,000 to £200,000 for senior AI ethics positions. The cost of ethical missteps can be catastrophic, both financially and reputationally, making this role increasingly crucial in corporate structures.
MLOps Engineers: The System Specialists
MLOps (Machine Learning Operations) engineers keep AI systems running smoothly in the real world. Their work involves maintaining and optimising AI models in production environments—a complex task that requires deep understanding of both traditional IT operations and machine learning systems.
The scarcity of professionals with this combination of skills is reflected in compensation packages. These specialists typically earn between £75,000 and £130,000, with additional stock options or performance bonuses common in tech companies.
Healthcare Practitioners: The AI-Enhanced Healers
Medical professionals who effectively integrate AI tools into their practice are seeing their market value increase substantially. Rather than replacing healthcare workers, AI is amplifying their capabilities—and their earning potential.
Consultants and specialists who demonstrate proficiency with AI diagnostic and treatment planning tools are seeing salary premiums of 20-40% compared to their peers. Teaching hospitals and private healthcare providers are particularly keen to attract AI-proficient practitioners, with consultant packages routinely exceeding £150,000.
Business Intelligence Experts: The Data Interpreters
As the experts at Signum Magnum Education illuminate, the role of business intelligence has evolved far beyond basic data analysis. Today’s BI experts transform AI-generated insights into practical business strategies, combining technical understanding with commercial acumen.
This evolution is reflected in compensation, with salaries ranging from £65,000 to £140,000. Performance-related bonuses often double these figures, particularly in financial services and consulting firms.
Quality Assurance Specialists: The Safety Net
As AI systems take on critical roles in healthcare, finance, and infrastructure, QA specialists ensure they perform reliably and safely. This isn’t traditional software testing—it requires understanding how AI systems might fail in subtle and unexpected ways.
Salaries typically range from £60,000 to £110,000, with higher rates in regulated industries. Recent high-profile AI failures have only increased the perceived value of these roles, particularly in sectors where AI decisions can have significant real-world impact.
Digital Transformation Advisers: The Change Makers
These professionals guide organisations through AI adoption, combining technical knowledge with business strategy. Independent consultants in this field often charge £1,000-£3,000 daily, while those employed by major firms earn £85,000-£200,000 plus substantial bonuses.
The most successful practitioners in this field combine deep technical understanding with practical business experience, helping organisations navigate both the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption.
Creative Directors: A Shifting Landscape
The relationship between AI and creative work is complex and contentious. While some creative directors are finding lucrative opportunities in combining AI with traditional skills, particularly in advertising and commercial design, many artists and illustrators face serious disruption to their livelihoods. Some report declining commissions as clients experiment with AI-generated content, while others have seen their work used without consent to train AI systems.
The most resilient roles are those focusing on strategic creative direction and original concept development—areas where human insight and cultural understanding remain crucial. In these positions, packages worth £100,000-£180,000 are still common for those who can effectively blend human creativity with AI capabilities, though the long-term impact of AI on creative industries remains uncertain.
Making Your Move
Breaking into these fields requires a strategic approach. Industry analysis suggests several key steps for success:
Develop both technical understanding and soft skills
Network with professionals in your target field
Consider relevant certifications or further education
Stay informed about AI developments in your chosen sector
The message is clear: AI won’t only eliminate jobs – it will transform them and create new ones, too, for better or for worse. Those who prepare now for these emerging roles will find themselves well-positioned for the most rewarding careers of tomorrow.
Note: Salary ranges are based on current market data and industry projections. Actual compensation may vary based on location, experience, and specific employer.
