While we’d all love a bathtub we could take a swim in, or a toilet seat which does all the dirty work for us, the reality is that for many, the bathroom is a functional room at best.
But did you know the average person spends more than two years in the bathroom? That’s a whole lot of time spent on the toilet, in the bath, under the shower and all the rest, regardless of the size of the space. Which, for the most of us, is generally on the smaller side, let’s be honest…
That doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of this limited space, to make the room into somewhere you want to spend time. It all starts with generating more real estate. Or at least, giving the illusion of space. Here’s how to do both, and make your small bathroom look bigger in 7 IDEAL steps.
Use Frameless Shower Units
That shower curtain over bath scenario just isn’t a good look. Nor is it particularly convenient, let’s be honest. Use less space and make more of it, with a modern, sleek glass shower unit with frameless shower doors.
These serve to make bathrooms look a lot bigger because they’re not cutting off space visually. By removing any visual obstruction, you’re left with an open and airy space to bathe or shower in. Be conscious that if you choose to use textured glass the same effect is unlikely, as it’ll act like a wall. It may also look pretty dated. Just sayin’.
Bigger Mirrors
There’s a reason why so many interior designers place emphasis on using mirrors to create more space across their designs. If you want to make your small bathroom appear larger without having to invest in costly solutions, a few simple mirrors – or one large one, for that matter – can work wonders.
In fact, go for the largest mirror that the bathroom can take. Mirrors are great for reflecting light and open up spaces effectively. A full length, or full wall mirror, can create the impression of having double the space. And that’s what you’re here for right?
Shower Enclosures
Everybody knows just how relaxing it can be to take a soak in the tub after a long day. However, when it comes to utilising the space in a smaller bathroom you’ll probably want to reconsider your bath versus shower cubicle options.
Though you may think that adding a bath with shower enclosures overhead is going to give you the best of both worlds, the truth is that baths aren’t exactly petite.
Instead, we’d highly recommend opting for shower units or cubicles in replacement of a bath, if space saving is your main concern. Shower enclosures are inexpensive and easy to fit, and there are lots of spa-like shower designs out there to take advantage of if you value the relaxing quality of a good soak, including modern hydro shower cabin options from companies like Vidalux.
Tile Right To The Ceiling
As we mentioned earlier, eliminating obstructions in a small bathroom space should be your priority if an improved impression of spaciousness is your end goal. You can do this by ensuring that your tiles go all the way up to the ceiling. If you leave a small space of a painted wall or wall trim above your tiling, you’ll make the space appear cramped – unfinished, even.
For a more seamless look, extend those tiles all the way. Avoid using patterned tiles as this can create a busy space that can end up looking cluttered.
Blend Your Colours
While contrasting, block colours can bring about a unique finish to a bathroom, you should avoid channelling this energy in smaller spaces; the effect can often be on the dingy side. Instead, harness the power of tiles, contrasting with the colour of the rest of the space, to act as a visual divider. Or, if you’re keeping with paint and wallpaper, lighter colours as a general rule of thumb are best for making any room look as big as possible.
Recesses & Clever Storage Solutions
Recessed medicine cabinets, toilet roll holders, and soap dishes pry out more space. Compared to cabinets built out, recessed ones offer more room to bend over and use the sink. You’ll gain more space without foregoing sleekness.
Using recessed light also makes a tiny bathroom appear spacious. Consider recesses since they don’t cost much in the grand scheme of your remodelling.
By building shelving units into the existing wall structure rather than building outwards, space is saved on a foundational as well as visual level. If you’re lucky enough to have any alcoves in your bathroom that you can make use of this way, then do so! Recessed shelving can be fairly easy to install and the extra graft will certainly pay off in the long-run.
Also, we don’t need to tell you that hidden bathroom storage is better than having stuff exposed; but we’ll reiterate that point nonetheless.
Keeping things clean is equally as important as keeping them uncluttered, we think. It might sound obvious, but when you let your bathroom become dirty, you might find that it’s a great deal more difficult to unwind in. Make a regular schedule for cleaning and stick to it. If you have a houseful of people regularly using the bathroom, then set up a rota for cleaning.
Let Natural Light Flow
One of the most effective ways to create an illusion of space is to maximise natural light in your bathroom. If you’re lucky enough to have a window, make sure you’re not blocking it with heavy blinds or frosted treatments that diminish light flow. Instead, opt for lightweight, sheer window coverings or frosted film that maintains privacy while letting sunlight stream through.
For ground floor bathrooms where privacy is paramount, consider installing a top-hung window or a skylight if possible. These additions not only flood the space with natural light but also create a vertical dimension that draws the eye upward, making the ceiling appear higher. If structural changes aren’t an option, using light-reflective materials for your bathroom fixtures and fittings will help bounce whatever natural light you do have around the room, amplifying its space-enhancing effects.
Lights Up
Drab and dreary lighting isn’t going to do much aesthetically for any interior space and this is especially illuminative for bathrooms. While shoddy lighting can result in making a bathroom feel tighter on space than it actually is, properly considered brightness can have the opposite effect. By introducing both general and task lighting you’re going to instantly open up the area.
Make sure the lighting you choose doesn’t cast shadows of any kind; in a compact space shadows only serve to enhance that sense of dinginess.
Ah, the Christmas jumper. Once the sartorial equivalent of a festive faux pas, now a beloved icon of Yuletide cheer. But let’s face it, while we all adore the comfort and the camaraderie of donning a knit emblazoned with Rudolph’s slightly intoxicated-looking visage, there’s a fine line between looking seasonally spirited and resembling a walking, talking Christmas grotto.
Fear not, my fashion-forward friends! With a few clever accessorising tricks, you can transform your Christmas jumper from ‘novelty nightmare’ to ‘festive fashionista’. So, grab a mince pie and a mulled wine, and let’s dive into the art of making that jumper look (kinda) stylish.
The Subtle Art Of Layering
First things first, layering is your ally. A crisp white shirt under your jumper can add a touch of sophistication. Pop the collar (not, we should implore, in a Harry Hill-esque way) and let the cuffs peek out; it’s like saying, “Yes, I’m here for the eggnog, but I’ve also got a grasp on the basics of chic.”
Statement Necklaces: The Bolder, The Better
Now, let’s talk bling. A chunky statement necklace can work wonders. It draws the eye, creating a focal point that says, “I meant to wear this jumper, and I’m owning it.” Opt for something with a bit of sparkle or a geometric design that complements the festive patterns without competing with them.
The Magic Of A Gold Bracelet
Ah, the gold bracelet – a true classic. It’s like the Christmas fairy atop the tree, but for your wrist. A sleek gold cuff or a collection of delicate bangles can add a touch of elegance to your ensemble. It’s the sartorial equivalent of wrapping tinsel around your arm, but, you know, tasteful.
Whether you’re accessorising with a gold bracelet for women, men, or however your bracelet identifies, consider the jumper’s design. If your jumper is on the busier side, with Santa and his reindeer playing a game of Twister across your torso, opt for a simple gold bangle. It’ll add a touch of class without adding to the chaos.
On the other hand, if your jumper is a more subdued affair (perhaps a tasteful tartan or a minimalist tree), feel free to go a bit more ornate. A gold charm bracelet jingling away with every flick of the wrist can be quite the conversation starter. Just be prepared for the inevitable “Oh, how charming!” puns.
Belts: Cinch It In Style
If your Christmas jumper is a bit on the boxy side, a belt can be your best friend. Cinch it at the waist to give yourself a silhouette as flattering as a fitted midi dress. A sleek leather belt or a metallic chain belt can add structure and style in equal measure. This simple trick transforms even the most oversized jumper into something that hints at your natural shape.
Footwear: From Drab To Fab
Moving on to the lower regions (hmmm, that sounds weird), your choice of footwear can make or break the outfit. A pair of heeled ankle boots can elevate the look (quite literally) and add an edge to the softness of the Christmas jumper. If heels aren’t your thing, a pair of polished brogues or even some snazzy trainers can keep things stylish yet comfortable.
The Enchantment Of Earrings
Let’s not forget the power of a good pair of earrings. They’re like the fairy lights of your outfit; they add sparkle and draw attention to your face. If your jumper is already a kaleidoscope of colour, opt for simple studs. However, if your knitwear is more “silent night” than “jingle bell rock,” feel free to go for something a bit more daring. Think dangling, shimmering, and perhaps even a nod to the festive season with a tasteful snowflake or star design.
The Charm Of A Chic Hat
Now, for the pièce de résistance: a chic hat. Whether it’s a classic fedora with a festive band or a cosy beanie topped with a faux-fur pom-pom, a hat can add a whole new dimension to your look. It’s practical for those chilly winter days and adds a touch of mystery. After all, who is that stylish individual beneath the brim? Why, it’s you, of course!
The Finishing Touch: A Dash Of Humour
Lastly, never underestimate the power of a good sense of humour. Christmas is the time for joy and laughter, after all. So, if your jumper has a 3D Santa whose belly button lights up, own it. Pair it with confidence and a cheeky grin, and you’ll be the life of the Christmas do.
The Conscious Choice: Sustainability
In the midst of our accessorising adventure, let’s not forget the jumper itself. In an age where fast fashion is a naughty list no-no, ensuring your Christmas jumper is sustainably sourced is as important as the eggnog being boozy.
When selecting your festive knit, look for materials that are kind to the planet. Organic cotton, recycled wool, or even Tencel (a fabric made from sustainably sourced wood) can make your Christmas cheer a little greener. Brands that offer transparency about their manufacturing processes and support ethical labour practices deserve a spot on your “nice” list.
Moreover, consider the longevity of your jumper. Is it well-made? Will it last you for several seasons? The most sustainable garment is one that doesn’t need to be replaced every year. And if you’re feeling particularly crafty, why not upcycle an old jumper? A few well-placed embellishments can breathe new life into a forgotten garment.
Remember, a stylish Christmas jumper doesn’t have to cost the Earth—literally. By choosing sustainably sourced knits and timeless accessories, you’re not just making a fashion statement; you’re spreading goodwill to the planet, and that’s a trend that will never go out of style.
When it comes to keeping a clean home, most of us will diligently scrub our bathrooms, polish our kitchen surfaces, and hoover our living spaces with the utmost care. However, despite our best efforts, there are certain areas within our abodes that harbour more bacteria and grime than we could ever imagine. These hidden germ hotspots can often be the most surprising, lurking in plain sight, yet frequently overlooked in our cleaning routines.
With that in mind, today we’re (somewhat reluctantly) uncovering the most unexpectedly dirty places in your home and providing you with practical advice on how to keep them spotless. Only then will we take you up on that invite over for dinner…
The Overlooked Offenders
1. Household Handles and Switches
Doorknobs, cupboard handles, and light switches are touched multiple times a day by various hands, making them prime real estate for germs. Yet, they are often neglected during regular cleaning.
Sanitising Tip: Wipe these surfaces down at least once a week with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with a mixture of hot water and antibacterial soap.
2. Remote Controls and Electronic Devices
Our electronic companions, from remote controls to smartphones, are handled constantly and rarely cleaned. They can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Sanitising Tip: Use an alcohol-based wipe to gently clean your devices, being careful not to damage any sensitive areas with excess liquid.
3. Kitchen Sponges and Cloths
Ironically, the very tools we use to clean can become the dirtiest items in our homes. Kitchen sponges and cloths can contain a higher number of bacteria than any other household item, leaving quite the smell behind if you’re not careful.
Sanitising Tip: Replace sponges regularly, and microwave damp sponges for two minutes daily to kill bacteria. Wash cloths at a high temperature and let them dry thoroughly before reuse.
4. Toothbrush Holders
Toothbrush holders are often found near sinks and toilets where they can be exposed to a host of germs, including E.coli.
Sanitising Tip: Regularly run your toothbrush holder through the dishwasher if it’s dishwasher-safe, or wash it in hot, soapy water.
5. Pet Bowls and Toys
Our furry friends’ accessories are often forgotten in the cleaning process. Pet bowls and toys can harbour bacteria that can affect both pets and humans, not to mention the musty aroma they often leave in their wake.
Sanitising Tip: Clean pet bowls daily and toys weekly, either in the dishwasher or with hot, soapy water, depending on the material they are made from.
These personal items come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day but are rarely cleaned.
Sanitising Tip: Wipe leather goods with a suitable cleaner and use disinfectant wipes on other materials, paying special attention to handles and corners.
7. Washing Machines
A device that’s supposed to clean your clothes can become surprisingly dirty itself, especially if you often wash at low temperatures.
Sanitising Tip:Run a hot wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar once a month to keep the machine and your clothes fresh.
8. Bedding and Mattresses
While sheets and pillowcases may be washed regularly, the mattress and duvet often go unnoticed. Dead skin cells, dust mites, and other allergens can accumulate, making your bed a hotbed for germs.
Sanitising Tip: Vacuum your mattress every month, use a mattress protector, and air out your duvet and pillows on a sunny day to reduce allergens. Wash bed linen weekly at a high temperature to kill dust mites. Many brands, such as Tineco, offer cordless vacuums equipped with strong suction power that can handle everything from dust and pet hair to larger debris.
9. Keyboards and Mice
Whether it’s for work or leisure, our computer keyboards and mice are in constant use. Crumbs, spills, and germy fingers can make these devices surprisingly dirty.
Sanitising Tip: Turn off your computer, unplug the keyboard and mouse, and gently shake out any debris. Use compressed air to blow out particles from between the keys, and clean the surfaces with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol, ensuring it’s not too wet to prevent any damage.
10. Showerheads
The warm, moist environment of a showerhead is ideal for bacteria and mould to thrive, especially if you have hard water which can cause mineral build-up.
Sanitising Tip: Detach the showerhead and soak it in a mixture of white vinegar and water for a few hours to dissolve mineral deposits and kill bacteria. If it cannot be removed, fill a plastic bag with the vinegar solution and secure it around the showerhead with a rubber band, allowing it to soak.
11. Houseplant Leaves & Pots
While our leafy companions bring life and freshness to our homes, their leaves and pots can accumulate surprising amounts of dust, mold, and bacteria. The moist soil in plant pots can harbor fungal growth, while dusty leaves not only look unsightly but can also impair the plant’s ability to photosynthesize effectively.
Sanitising Tip: Gently wipe plant leaves monthly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust buildup. For smaller plants, you can give them a shower in the sink or bathtub using lukewarm water. Check pot saucers regularly for stagnant water, and clean decorative pots with warm, soapy water when you repot plants. Consider adding a layer of pebbles or activated charcoal on top of the soil to prevent mold growth and fungus gnats.
Keeping Your Home Hygienically Clean
Maintaining a hygienic home is not just about the visible cleanliness but also about being mindful of the unseen germs that can accumulate in the nooks and crannies of our living spaces. Here are some general sanitisation tips to keep your home clean:
Regularly Disinfect: Incorporate the cleaning of these surprising areas into your regular routine.
Stay Dry: Moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria, so keep your home as dry as possible.
Ventilate: Good airflow can help prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Declutter: Less stuff means fewer places for dust and germs to hide.
Use the Right Tools: Microfibre cloths and the correct cleaners can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your cleaning.
The Bottom Line
By shining a light on these surprising dirt magnets and adopting a thorough cleaning regimen, you can ensure that your home remains not just sparkling on the surface, but deeply sanitised for the health and well-being of everyone under your roof.
Remember, a clean home is a happy home, and sometimes the smallest efforts can make the biggest difference in our quest for cleanliness.
The UK may not boast the same temperatures as sunny Spain or possess the gastronomic heritage of foodie France. But whether it’s out of necessity, curiosity or national pride, people are increasingly realising that there’s still so much to enjoy about good old Grande-Bretagne.
Particularly in the often idyllic Devon to Cornwall, we boast some brilliant coastal towns and villages that can easily compete with holidays spent on the continent. With that in mind, here’s our top picks of coastal destinations in Devon and Cornwall.
Padstow: Ideal For A Foodie Summer Holiday
Padstow is a charming working fishing port, making it the ideal foodie destination in Cornwall for lovers of all things seafood.
From quirky cafes to award-winning bakeries and Michelin-rated restaurants, this harbour town has views that are as delightful as its culinary scene.
For a fine dining experience, it has to be Paul Ainsworth at Number 6, which offers a modern, playful tasting menu celebrating Cornwall’s frankly world class produce. Celebrity chef Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant and Rick Stein’s Cafe are also both within the town, earning it the nickname Padstein.
It’s also the start of the Camel trail cycle path. A hugely popular route with all ages, the gentle and scenic bike ride between Padstow and Wadebridge is a succinct way to get some fresh air in your lungs, wind in your sails and, of course, an opportunity to take in some views. Take a walk by the estuary at low tide and you’ll find the saltlands teeming with birds, if nature is your thing.
Ideal Tip: A short 37-minute drive from Padstow (or a 11.7 mile walk) you’ll find Port Issac. If you’re after some top-draw fish cookery, then one of the finest fish chefs in the world, Nathan Outlaw, owns two fantastic restaurants in Port Isaac, making the very most of the area’s finest produce. Which of course equates to some bloody nice seafood.
Mousehole is a small fishing village and one of the most picturesque spots in Cornwall – and one of the oldest, too.
The guys at Luxury Coastal say, “Arriving in this sleepy fishing village is a little bit like stepping into a fairytale. Found just three miles from Penzance, Mousehole is one of those destinations where time seems to stand still. Boats bob in the harbour, waves lap the beach and cafes serve the catch of the day. If you want to experience the Cornwall of days gone by, this is the perfect place to do it”.
One of the most popular times to visit Mousehole is in the lead up to Christmas when people come to see the famous Mousehole Lights. However, summer is an equally brilliant time to visit, and just perfect for strolling around its narrow streets, taking in some art galleries and enjoying the views across the harbour.
Ideal Tip: If you’re travelling with children, be sure to bring along the children’s classic ‘The Mousehole Cat’, a beautifully illustrated book that tells the tale of a cat and Cornish fisherman braving stormy seas to save their village.
Nestled in the South Hams district of Devon, Dartmouth stands as a testament to Britain’s rich maritime history. This picturesque harbour town, with its colourful mediaeval and Elizabethan buildings lining the waterfront, offers visitors a perfect blend of historical charm and modern coastal living.
The town’s crowning glory is the Royal Naval College, which has trained British naval officers since 1905. Take a stroll along the Embankment and you’ll find yourself surrounded by bobbing boats, from tiny fishing vessels to luxury yachts. For history buffs, Dartmouth Castle, perched at the mouth of the River Dart, offers stunning views of the estuary and a fascinating glimpse into the town’s military past.
Ideal Tip: Don’t miss the chance to hop aboard the Dartmouth Steam Railway for a journey along one of Britain’s most spectacular coastal routes. The round trip to Paignton offers breathtaking views of the English Riviera, and if you’re lucky, you might spot seals basking on the rocks below.
Falmouth: Ideal For Culture Vultures
Boasting the world’s third-deepest natural harbour, Falmouth combines maritime heritage with a thriving arts scene and vibrant university culture. This Cornish gem has reinvented itself as a creative hub whilst maintaining its seafaring roots.
The town is home to the excellent National Maritime Museum Cornwall, where visitors can explore Britain’s seafaring heritage through interactive exhibits and stunning vessels. Art enthusiasts will find themselves spoilt for choice with numerous galleries, including the renowned Falmouth Art Gallery, showcasing both local talent and international artists.
The bustling Events Square hosts year-round festivals, from the Falmouth Oyster Festival in autumn to the Sea Shanty Festival in summer. For those seeking a quiet moment, the subtropical Trebah and Glendurgan Gardens offer peaceful retreats with stunning coastal views.
Ideal Tip: Take the short ferry ride across to St Mawes for lunch at the Idle Rocks Hotel. The journey offers spectacular views of Falmouth’s harbour, and the hotel’s terrace restaurant serves up some of Cornwall’s finest seafood with a view to match.
Brixham: Ideal For Beach Lovers
According to Beachlets, who offer bespoke beachside cottages across the UK, one of the nicest things about the beaches in Devon’s Brixham is that the area’s coastline is peppered with little stretches of sand.
The hard part is where to go. However, they tell us that, “For popularity and convenience, it’s got to be Breakwater Beach…with a Seaside Award and a nod in the Good Beach Guide, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best-loved Brixham beaches! And then there’s Churston Cove. The kind of sleepy cove that the Famous Five would have gone crazy for”. We couldn’t have put it better ourselves.
Clovelly Beach: Ideal For An Instagrammable Holiday
Finally, Clovelly is a picture-perfect fishing village in North Devon, brimming with quaint cottages centred around its cobbled main street. This place is picture perfect in the truest sense of the word – in 2020 it was named the most Instagrammable village in the UK, with distinctive cobbled streets, flower-strewn cottages and resident donkeys all playing their part in its unique aesthetic.
As Great British Life explains “Clovelly is privately owned so you have to pay an entry fee, making it one of the most unique places in the country…And then there are some of the most breath-taking views over Bideford Bay and across the coastline, towards the North Atlantic Ocean. It’s easy to see why Clovelly makes it into so many social media feeds”.
Because you can’t spell Clovelly without ‘lovely’, after all!
The Bottom Line
With so much gorgeous coast to explore, defined by both golden sands and quaint fishing villages and towns, why would you ever want to leave Old Blighty?
Sometimes, when the colder climes kick in, those looking to warm up their homes simply turn up the heat to full. A quick fix solution, sure, but doing so doesn’t take the time to consider what might not be seasonal factors, but rather structural issues which need addressing.
Don’t be that guy; doing so could waste money, energy, and worst of all, do a damage to the environment which could easily be avoided. Fortunately, there are several different tricks and techniques that you can put into practice, ranging from the simple and affordable to the more expensive and time-consuming, which can stop your home losing heat and keep your energy bill low in the coming months. With that in mind, here are 6 methods to prevent heat loss at home this Winter.
Insulate Your Home Properly
The clearest cut, most foolproof way to reduce your home’s energy bills is to insulate your house properly. Sadly, identifying exactly where the heat is being lost isn’t quite so clear cut.
There are several places where your abode can lose its heat, including the floor, windows, doors and roof. If you don’t insulate your home properly, a lot of this energy can end up going to waste, which is detrimental to your bank balance and more importantly, the health of the planet. If your reluctance to strengthen your property’s insulation is due to the cost, then you may even be able to get a grant from the government to cover some of the fees involved.
Windows can account for up to 25-30% of your home’s heat loss, making them a crucial area to address for energy efficiency. Double and triple glazing are excellent long-term solutions, significantly reducing heat loss through the windows while also providing added benefits like noise reduction and increased home security. If you’re considering this upgrade, look for windows with a low U-value rating, as this indicates better insulation performance.
However, if double glazing isn’t currently within your budget, there are several cost-effective alternatives you can implement immediately. Start by installing heavy-duty window films – these transparent sheets create an additional barrier against heat loss and can be applied using just a hairdryer and some patience. For older windows, draught-proofing strips are particularly effective at sealing gaps in window frames. Choose self-adhesive foam strips for windows that open, and silicone sealant for windows that don’t.
Don’t overlook the window frames themselves. Check for any visible gaps or cracks and seal them using appropriate weather-stripping materials or caulk. Pay special attention to where the frame meets the wall, as these joints often develop gaps over time. For wooden frames, regular maintenance including painting and sealing can prevent warping that leads to draughts.
As the team at GT Glazing recommend for during particularly cold spells, consider using temporary secondary glazing kits, which involve attaching a layer of clear plastic film to your window frame using double-sided tape and shrinking it tight with a hairdryer. While not as elegant as permanent solutions, these kits can reduce heat loss significantly and are very cost-effective.
Use Draft Excluders For Your Doors
One of the most overlooked yet significant sources of heat loss in homes comes from the gaps under doors, particularly external doors and those leading to unheated spaces like garages or utility rooms. Installing draft excluders – whether store-bought or homemade – can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home warm and reducing your energy bills.
For external doors, consider fitting a brush strip or rubber seal to the bottom of the door. These are relatively inexpensive and can be easily installed with basic DIY skills. For internal doors, you could opt for fabric draft excluders, which can be simply placed against the bottom of the door when closed. These come in various designs to match your home décor, or you could even make your own using old pillowcases filled with rice or dried beans.
Additionally, don’t forget about letterboxes and keyholes – small brushed covers for these openings can prevent surprising amounts of cold air from entering your home. This simple and cost-effective draught-proofing solution can complement your other heat-saving measures and contribute to a warmer, more energy-efficient home.
Check Out Your Radiators
The first step that you can take to get your radiators working more effectively is to bleed them. Doing so will mean you’re using the heat generated effectively and efficiently.
Essentially, this means getting rid of any trapped air that is preventing them from giving off the maximum amount of heat. When you are spending so much money on heat, it makes sense that your radiators are working to their full potential.
It’s fairly easy to do this; with the heating turned off, simply take a radiator key and open your radiator’s valves (this should be obvious as the item which can be turned with the key usually positioned on the side of the radiator). Then, be prepared to catch the drips that follow, which will slowly turn into a steady stream. Once that stronger stream is present, you’ve released all the air. Tighten back up and move on to the next one.
Install A Radiator Shelf
Another option is to install a radiator shelf, which will direct the heat forwards in the room, rather than allowing it all to simply rise to the ceiling. You can get this item from most of hardware and DIY shops. Another simple step that you can take is to move anything away from your radiators that is causing a blockage, such as larger items of furniture.
Invest In Some Good Quality Curtains
We have already covered how much heat can end up being lost through your windows. Rather than letting this become too much of an issue, investing in some good-quality curtains can make such a big difference in your fight against heat loss.
Make sure that you also keep them open at the right time – allowing the sun to stream in when the weather allows for it. Avoid letting your curtains hang over the radiators as this can prevent the heat from warming the whole room.
As winter’s icy grip takes hold and frost blankets our gardens, many of us retreat indoors with barely a thought for our lawns until spring. However, these chilly months are surprisingly crucial for maintaining a healthy patch of green that you’ll be proud to show off when warmer weather returns.
Whilst your grass may appear dormant during winter, what happens beneath the surface during these months can make or break your lawn’s vitality come springtime. With proper attention now, you’ll be setting the stage for a lush, vibrant garden when the temperatures rise again.
The Winter Walking Dilemma
During frosty periods, your lawn becomes particularly vulnerable to damage. When frost forms, grass blades become brittle and crystallised, making them susceptible to breakage.
If you must traverse your lawn, wait until the frost has naturally thawed. Better yet, consider laying temporary pathways using wooden planks for essential winter garden maintenance tasks. For frequently used routes across your lawn, consider installing stepping stones—they’ll protect your grass whilst adding a charming design element to your garden.
Mastering Winter Drainage
Winter rainfall can wreak havoc on poorly draining lawns, leading to waterlogging and subsequent moss invasion. Keep an eye out for standing water, particularly after heavy downpours. If you notice persistent puddles, you may need to improve your soil’s drainage.
Winter is actually an excellent time to address drainage issues, as the reduced grass growth allows for easier implementation of solutions such as installing land drains or incorporating sharp sand into particularly boggy areas. For severe cases, consider installing a French drain system—whilst it represents a significant initial investment, it could save your lawn from long-term water damage.
The Battle Against Moss
Winter’s damp, shady conditions create the perfect environment for moss to flourish. While it might add a certain verdant charm to your winter garden, moss will actively compete with your grass for resources and space, potentially leading to bare patches come spring.
Rather than waiting until the problem becomes severe, take preventative action by ensuring good air circulation across your lawn. This might mean pruning overhanging branches that create excessive shade or using a spring-tined rake to gently lift the grass, allowing better airflow at ground level. Consider applying a winter-specific moss treatment when conditions allow—many professional products are specifically formulated to work effectively at lower temperatures.
The Art Of Winter Mowing
Contrary to popular belief, your mower shouldn’t necessarily be consigned to the shed all winter. During milder spells, when the grass is dry and temperatures are above 5°C, a light trim can help maintain lawn health. However, adjust your mower to a higher cutting height than usual—this extra length provides better protection for the grass roots during cold snaps.
Remember to avoid mowing when the grass is wet or frozen, as this can cause significant damage to both your lawn and your mower. When you do mow, ensure your blades are sharp—clean cuts heal better and are less likely to allow disease to take hold during the vulnerable winter period.
While many weeds become dormant in winter, others continue to thrive. These opportunistic plants can take advantage of your lawn’s slower winter growth rate to establish themselves. Keep an eye out for winter-active weeds like chickweed and annual meadow grass, removing them by hand when the soil is moist enough to allow for complete root extraction.
For larger weed infestations, consider consulting a lawn care professional about winter-safe herbicide applications, and check out buying guides and reviews at the weed killer experts at Posh to find out which item might be best for your garden. The key here is to tackle weeds before they set seed and create bigger problems for the spring.
Essential Equipment Maintenance
Winter offers the perfect opportunity to maintain your garden tools. Clean and sharpen your mower blades, service your strimmer, and ensure all equipment is properly stored in a dry place. Well-maintained tools will make your spring lawn care routine considerably easier and more effective.
Take time to clean and oil your tools after each use, paying particular attention to removing any wet grass or soil that could cause rust. Consider treating wooden handles with linseed oil to prevent weathering and cracking.
Preparing For Spring Success
As winter progresses, start planning your spring lawn care regime. Order seeds and treatments well in advance, and consider booking any professional services you might need—the best lawn care specialists often get booked up quickly as winter draws to a close.
Take advantage of milder winter days to assess your lawn’s condition and make notes of areas that might need special attention come spring. This forward-thinking approach will help you hit the ground running when the growing season begins.
The Bottom Line
Remember, winter lawn care isn’t just about maintaining appearances during the colder months—it’s about laying the groundwork for a spectacular spring revival. By giving your lawn the attention it needs during these challenging months, you’re investing in its future health and vitality.
With proper winter care, your lawn won’t just survive the cold season—it’ll emerge stronger and better prepared for the year ahead. After all, a well-maintained winter lawn is the foundation of a garden that will be ready to burst into life when those first warm days of spring finally arrive. Whether you’re a dedicated gardener or simply someone who appreciates a beautiful lawn, these winter maintenance steps will help ensure your grass remains healthy and resilient throughout the coldest months of the year.
The concept of living ‘off-grid’ has captured the imagination of many, conjuring images of a self-sufficient lifestyle that escapes the hellish hustle of modern life, free from the clutches of utility companies and, well, everyday responsibilities. But is this idyllic vision truly attainable in the UK, with its dense population and strict planning laws?
The answer is a tentative yes, and there are already intrepid Brits who are proving it’s not only possible but also profoundly rewarding.
The Feasibility Of Off-Grid Living In The UK
Firstly, it’s essential to point out thatliving off-grid means different things to different people, but at its core, it involves disconnecting from public utilities and creating a self-sustaining home.
In the UK, this can be challenging due to the climate, legalities, and the need for land. However, with advances in technology, a growing community of off-gridders, and a shift in societal values towards sustainability, the barriers are slowly being dismantled.
Legal Considerations
One of the biggest hurdles for off-grid living in the UK is navigating the planning permission process. The law requires that any residential dwelling has the right permissions, which can be tricky for non-traditional homes.
However, policies such as the One Planet Development in Wales are beginning to acknowledge and accommodate off-grid living.
Energy & Heating Considerations
A crucial aspect of off-grid living that many British homesteaders grapple with is heating their homes through the notoriously damp winters. While renewable energy can power electrical appliances, heating often requires a more robust solution. Oil tanks for home heating remain a common choice among off-grid communities, particularly in areas where natural gas connections aren’t available. These storage tanks need to be carefully positioned away from water sources and require regular maintenance and refilling by approved suppliers.
However, many off-gridders are moving towards hybrid systems that combine traditional heating methods with renewable alternatives. A well-designed setup might include a combination of oil heating for the coldest months, supplemented by wood-burning stoves, solar thermal panels for hot water, and excellent insulation to minimise overall energy consumption. Some pioneering households have even implemented ground source heat pumps, though these require significant initial investment and suitable land conditions.
The key is to develop a heating strategy that’s both reliable and sustainable. This might mean storing several months’ worth of fuel, whether that’s heating oil, wood, or other materials, and having backup systems in place for extreme weather conditions. It’s worth noting that proper insulation and thoughtful house design can dramatically reduce heating requirements, making the goal of sustainable warmth more achievable.
Technological Advances
Renewable energy technology has made leaps and bounds, making it more accessible and efficient. Solar panels, wind turbines, and rainwater harvesting systems are now more affordable and reliable, even in the less sunny British climate.
Practicalities Of Off-Grid Living In The UK
Transitioning to an off-grid lifestyle in the UK involves a myriad of practical considerations that extend beyond energy independence and housing. Healthcare, as mentioned, is paramount, and ensuring you have access to a GP within a reasonable distance is essential for both emergency and routine medical needs.
In terms of communication, an online PO box can serve as a flexible but stable mailing address. However, for those who require consistent internet access, whether for work or personal reasons, exploring satellite broadband or mobile data options is necessary, as traditional broadband services may not reach remote off-grid locations.
Transportation is another key practicality. Off-grid locations are often situated away from public transport routes, so having a reliable vehicle is important, and it may be worth considering an electric or hybrid model to align with sustainable living values. Regular travel to nearby towns for supplies, or in case of emergencies, should be factored into your planning.
Waste management is a further consideration. Without municipal services, you’ll need to establish a system for dealing with both household waste and sewage. Composting, recycling, and reducing waste through mindful consumption are all part of off-grid living.
Lastly (well, not lastly, there are so many more practicalities to consider), water access is also critical. While rainwater harvesting systems can provide for your water needs, they must be properly filtered and sometimes heated. For those not on a mains supply, boreholes or wells are an alternative, though they come with their own legal and environmental considerations.
Community Support
There’s a growing community of off-gridders in the UK, offering support, advice, and a shared pool of knowledge. This network is invaluable for anyone looking to make the transition. Here are a few places where such support can be found:
The Low Impact Living Initiative (LILI)
A non-profit organization that provides resources and runs courses on sustainable living.
Lammas Ecovillage is a pioneering project that has become a beacon of sustainable living. Established in 2009 under the Welsh Government’s One Planet Development policy, Lammas consists of nine households living on 76 acres of land. Each household is built from natural and recycled materials and is designed to minimize its ecological footprint.
The community supports itself through a combination of traditional farming, green technology, and eco-tourism. They have communal facilities, including a community hub building, and offer courses and workshops to share their knowledge and experience with others.
The Isle of Eigg, Scotland
The Isle of Eigg is a remarkable example of community-led sustainable living. In 1997, the islanders bought out the private landowner and took control of their future. By 2008, they had established their own off-grid electric company, Eigg Electric, which harnesses wind, solar, and hydro power to provide electricity to the island’s residents.
The system is designed to be robust and self-sufficient, ensuring that the community is not reliant on mainland power sources. The islanders are also committed to conservation efforts, preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Eigg.
Tinkers Bubble, Somerset, England
Tinkers Bubble is a small woodland community that has been living off-grid since 1994. The residents use environmentally friendly methods to manage their 40-acre land, including horse-drawn ploughs and wood-fired steam engines. They grow their own organic fruit and vegetables, keep bees, and manage the woodland for timber and firewood.
The community is also financially self-sufficient, selling their surplus produce at local markets. Their commitment to a low-impact lifestyle extends to their homes, which are built from local, natural materials and are designed to blend into the landscape.
Simon Dale’s Hobbit Home, Wales
Simon Dale’s ‘Hobbit Home’ is a testament to individual ingenuity and the potential of natural building techniques. With no prior experience in construction, Dale built a charming and eco-friendly home for his family using a chainsaw, hammer, and chisel, and with the help of friends and volunteers.
The house is dug into a hillside for low visual impact and natural insulation, with a roof covered in turf. It features a compost toilet, a gravity-fed water system, and solar panels for power. This home has inspired many others to consider alternative, sustainable ways of building.
The Hockerton Housing Project, Nottinghamshire, England
The Hockerton Housing Project is a co-housing community that consists of five earth-sheltered homes built to rigorous energy efficiency standards. The residents live a sustainable lifestyle, generating their own clean energy, harvesting rainwater, and growing food in their communal polytunnel and gardens.
The houses are designed to be passive solar homes, minimising the need for additional heating or cooling. The community also runs educational tours and workshops to promote sustainable living practices.
Scoraig, Scottish Highlands
Scoraig is an off-grid community accessible only by boat or foot, located on a remote peninsula in the Scottish Highlands. The residents here are a mix of long-term settlers and newcomers, all attracted by the prospect of a self-sufficient lifestyle. They generate their own power using homemade wind turbines and solar panels, and many grow their own food, keep livestock, and fish in the local waters.
The community is also home to a small school and a lighthouse, and they share resources and knowledge to maintain their off-grid way of life.
The Bottom Line
While off-grid living in the UK may not be for the faint-hearted, it is undoubtedly possible and increasingly viable. Sure, you might have to exercise a little poetic license in what ‘off grid’ actually means, and invest in a fair amount of gear to make it happen, but in doing so, you may well find a new meaning to life. Even if that meaning is how much you love having a Tesco Express just round the corner.
2025 looks set to be a bumper year for tourism in Turkey, with the country’s ‘Hello Turkiye’ campaign taking flight and tourist numbers predicted to soar, with numbers already up 70% since the pandemic.
On top of that, Turkey this year is set to take over France as Europe’s second most visited country. Yep, we said 2025 is going to be a bumper year here.
Of course, the majority of tourism in the country starts in the glorious capital Istanbul, a city as rich in diverse culture and history as you’ll find anywhere on the planet. Straddling Europe and Asia, and enjoying a unique vibe all of its own, it’s also one of the biggest cities in the world, and certainly one of its most influential, with must-see attractions, thought-provoking museums and historical monuments all over the city to enjoy.
Whether you are travelling with family, or you are taking your first solo trip, from the moment you leave the airport, you’ll find so much to entertain, stimulate and arouse here. To inspire your itinerary, here are 11 places to explore the culture and heritage of Istanbul in 2025.
Hagia Sophia
This building was one of the biggest cathedrals in the world for almost a thousand years, and it’s no wonder people from around the world travel to Istanbul to see this. In the 15th century, it was transformed into a mosque and then a museum in 1935, before being returned to mosque status this year; a colourful history, indeed. Before all of this, it was known as the centre of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Standing tall over the city (though not quite as towering as Istanbul Sapphire, one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers), to say Hagia Sophia is enormous is an understatement. With its massive dome and walls embellished with Byzantine mosaic portraits of past emperors and representations of Christ, you can easily spend a morning or afternoon here, just taking in the majesty of the structure and its cultural significance in the country.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace, a beautiful, ornate structure and museum overlooking the Bosphorus, served as the residence for the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries and has so much to offer visitors. Open every day except Tuesdays, the large-scale rooms and chamber houses are open to the public and wandering them is actively encouraged; pay particular attention to the conversation-starting imperial collections like the 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond.
There are four back-to-back courtyards surrounded by huge walls, though there is only one accessible to the public. In the other courtyards, only official visitors and members of the court can enter the space. Topkapi Palace still upholds its original layout from four centuries ago to this day and as such, it’s a historical site you do not want to miss.
No visit to Istanbul would be complete without experiencing the magnificent Bosphorus strait, the natural waterway that literally divides Europe and Asia. This iconic waterway has been the lifeblood of Istanbul for millennia, and today offers visitors countless ways to experience its majesty.
The best way to appreciate the Bosphorus is, naturally, from the water itself. Whether you’re looking for a Bosphorus cruise on a private yacht, a romantic sunset tour, or a full-day excursion to the Black Sea, there’s an option to suit every preference. Many of these experiences depart from Bebek or Kabataş, and as you sail, you’ll witness the city’s most stunning waterfront attractions, including the Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and the magnificent Bosphorus Bridge.
For those who prefer to stay on terra firma, the waterfront neighbourhoods offer their own delights. The Ortaköy district, with its baroque mosque and bustling weekend artisan market, is particularly charming. Here, you can sample the famous kumpir (stuffed baked potatoes) whilst watching the boats go by. Meanwhile, the Bebek area, with its luxurious yalıs (waterfront mansions) and sophisticated cafés, offers a glimpse into Istanbul’s more refined side.
Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at one of the many fish restaurants along the shore, particularly in areas like Arnavutköy or Sarıyer. The catch of the day, served with rakı (the local anise-flavoured spirit) and meze, tastes even better with the spectacular water views and the gentle sea breeze.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, is another historical must-see which will enlighten you on Istanbul’s culture and heritage immensely. With its instantly recognisable, iconic blue interior, it was built during Ahmed I’s reign in the 17th century and still stands still and resplendent to this day.
Each wall in the monumental mosque is embellished with 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles, and it’s a striking sight to behold, regardless of your faith. But the azure anointed walls aren’t the only reason why the interior stands out; natural light from the mosque’s 200 windows filters through in a magical, mystical way. The mosque’s six minarets, instead of the usual two, are another striking feature.
Just be cognizant of when you attend, as Sultanahmet is still a functional mosque and visiting during prayer isn’t permitted.
Basilica Cistern
To take a deep dive into a very deep past in Istanbul, you have to visit Basilica Cistern, which sits underground, close to Hagia Sophia. In Turkish, the Basilica Cistern is known as Yerebatan Sarnıcı and was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I. He used it to house 80,000 m3 of water and ration it out to other palaces in the area. This water system is a complex and intricate attraction with hundreds of time-honoured Ionic and Corinthian columns.
You can even go below the ground to check out some of the underground compounds. One of the most noteworthy things to see here is the two-column bases, adorned with the upside-down head of Medusa. As you pass through the columns, you’ll feel water dripping from overhead, and history all around you.
Istanbul Archaeological Museum
This is known as Turkey’s first museum and is actually part of a collection of three (the others being the Museum of the Ancient Orient and the Tiled Pavillion), all housed in Gülhane Park, which is close to Topkapi Palace.
Founded in 1891, it’s still perhaps Istanbul’s most extensive collection of artefacts, with over a million (!) pieces to admire. It’s huge, so it’s wise to arrive early; you’ll need an entire day to get the most out of this tourist attraction.
Established in the late 19th century, the Archaeology Museum is home to Ancient Greek, Roman and Turkish artefacts. There are even some heirlooms from places like the Balkans, Africa, Mesopotamia and the Middle East. If you want to get familiar with the city (and country’s) unique, complicated past, then it’s here you should head.
Gülhane Park
Actually, let’s mention Gülhane Park in its own right, as is one of the biggest parks in the historic city, and a great place to escape to hustle and bustle of this furiously paced metropolis. Sitting proud in the city’s Eminönü district, and overlooking the Bosphorus strait and Marmara sea, the ideal time to come here is during springtime when you can see hundreds upon hundreds of tulips blooming, lending the place a hopeful, optimistic air in tune with Istanbul’s energy. The breeze coming off the water and shade lent by trees (which date back several centuries) make the park one of the best places in the city to cool off.
Grand Bazaar
If you love going shopping for trinkets and souvenirs unique to a city, then the Grand Bazaar is definitely the tourist attraction for you. Indeed, Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s biggest and oldest covered markets, home to hundreds of shops dispersed across too many streets to count (60ish, actually). It’s so big in fact, that it has its own prayer rooms, police station and pharmacy. Keep in mind that when shopping here, the name of the game is bargaining and bartering; all part of the experience when visiting Grand Bazaar’s 4000 stalls and shops. Of particular interest here are Turkish teas, Turkish delight and the country’s intricate, unique jewellery and ceramics.
Spice Bazaar
Treat the gourmet chef in you and indulge yourself with hundreds of stalls that sell spices, sweets, teas, dried fruits and other goods at the Spice Bazaar. Smaller than the Grand Bazaar, this shopping hub is also a great place to buy your family and friends souvenirs from your trip relating to Turkey’s incredible cuisine. It’s not just about food here; don’t be afraid to try the many traditional Turkish herbal remedies sold in the market, which are believed to help things like memory, immunity, digestion and overall health.
Finish your tour of this great market with a glass of pickle juice (yep, you read that right) in the market where locals often stop off for a reviving sup of the sour liquor. Often accompanied by balik ekmek (fish sandwiches) straight from Bosphorus, this is a refreshing, energising Turkish tradition we’d love to see become popular in the UK!
The ‘Asian Side’
Speaking of pickle juice, another place to sample it is across the river at Meşhur Özcan Turşulari, near to the Kadikoy underground station. It’s one of the most popular pickle vendors in town and has been selling the stuff since 1935.
The Asian side (or the ‘other side’) itself is a multicultural mix of Ottoman palaces, galleries, lively cafes and bars with a hipster vibe. Be sure to explore the Kadıköy district and its cool Moda neighbourhood in particular to experience a more laid back side to Istanbul and its culture.
Dolmabahçe Palace
Completing our list is the majestic Dolmabahçe Palace, a stunning example of Turkey’s transition into the modern age while still holding onto the grandeur of its past. Built in the 19th century, this palace served as the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire in its final years and was home to the last of the Ottoman Sultans.
As you wander through its opulent halls and richly decorated rooms, you’ll be transported back to a time of lavish lifestyles and political intrigue. The palace’s architecture is a fusion of various European artistic influences integrated with traditional Ottoman design, making it a unique cultural gem. The grand ceremonial hall, with its 4.5-tonne chandelier, is a sight to behold, while the palace’s extensive collection of paintings, furniture, and decorative arts offers a glimpse into the imperial lifestyle.
Dolmabahçe Palace is not just a symbol of Istanbul’s imperial past but also a reminder of the city’s continuous evolution, embodying the spirit of ‘Hello Turkiye’ as it opens its doors to the world.
How Easy Is It For Brits To Move To Turkey?
For British nationals considering a move to the enchanting city of Istanbul or any other part of Turkey, the process is relatively straightforward, thanks to the warm bilateral relations between the UK and Turkey. However, there are some essential steps and legal requirements to be aware of.
Visa Requirements
Initially, British tourists can enter Turkey without a visa for short visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For those looking to stay longer, whether for work, study, or retirement, you will need to apply for a visa and/or a residence permit.
Residence Permits
After your visa-free 90 days, if you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a residence permit. The Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM) handles all applications, which can be done online through their e-residence system. Types of residence permits include short-term, family, student, and long-term.
Short-Term Residence Permit
This is suitable for those who wish to stay for longer than 90 days but do not intend to work. It’s often used by retirees or those who can support themselves financially without working in Turkey. You’ll need to provide proof of sufficient funds, health insurance, and a place to stay.
Work Permits
If you plan to live and work in Turkey as an expat, you’ll need a work permit, which also serves as your residence permit. Your employer in Turkey typically initiates this process by applying to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. You can then enter Turkey with a work visa and complete the process.
Long-Term Residence Permit
After living in Turkey for at least eight years without significant interruption, you may be eligible for a long-term residence permit. This gives you more rights, similar to those of a Turkish citizen, but you must prove you have not received any social assistance in the past three years and have sufficient income to support yourself.
Buying Property
Purchasing property here can also lead to a residence permit. The process is relatively investor-friendly, with apartment prices in Turkey around 65% cheaper than in the UK. There is even a pathway to citizenship for those who invest a certain amount in real estate.
Healthcare and Insurance
All expatriates are required to have health insurance coverage to obtain a residence permit. You can either pay into the Turkish state health system (SGK) or purchase private health insurance.
Integration and Language
While not a legal requirement, learning Turkish will significantly enhance your experience and ease your integration into Turkish society. There are numerous language courses available in Istanbul and other cities.
Retirement in Turkey
Turkey is becoming an increasingly popular retirement destination for Brits due to its lower cost of living and Mediterranean lifestyle. As a retiree, you would apply for a short-term residence permit and show proof of a pension or other regular income.
Legal and Professional Advice
It’s highly recommended to seek legal and professional advice when moving to Turkey. Regulations can change, and having a professional guide you through the process can ensure you meet all the requirements and choose the best type of permit for your situation.
Indeed, while moving to Turkey requires some administrative work, the process is well-established and facilitated by the Turkish government’s desire to attract foreign residents and investors. With the right preparation and support, Brits can find the transition to life in Turkey to be a smooth and rewarding experience.
The Bottom Line
As you embark on your journey through Istanbul, let these 10 destinations be your guide to a city that is as timeless as it is dynamic, as rooted in history as it is forward-looking. Welcome to Istanbul, where every visit is an encounter with the soul of Turkey.
New year, new sleep routine? We’ve certainly heard of worse New Year’s resolutions, that’s for sure. And as we now enter the final month of 2024, don’t you think it’s time you should start making some that will actually count?
But just how do you achieve a better night of rest efficiently and economically? It all starts, unsurprisingly, with your bed.
Your bed is the centrepiece of your bedroom, and determines the quality of your work, rest and play, both directly and indirectly. It makes sense, then, to adorn it with a quality mattress.
As well as enhancing the look and feel of your bedroom, having a quality mattress will improve your sleep and help you rest more comfortably.
When shopping for a new mattress, you’ll want to consider your body type, preferred sleep position, and bedroom size at the forefront of thinking when buying a new mattress, whilst also considering the suitability of the material, whether it’s made from memory foam, latex, or an organic material.
Your budget is another crucial factor to consider. The price of a mattress varies hugely; you can find a decent quality mattress for as little as £250 or a luxurious one for upwards of £5000. Alternatively, you can design a customised mattress the suit your own unique needs. Decisions, decisions, indeed. You might want to sleep on it…
Anyway, let’s explore further on how to choose the right mattress for your bedroom.
The Lifetime Of A Mattress
The best age-proof mattress could last up to 25 years, and that longevity represents a worthwhile investment, both in your home and your sleep.
The average mattress lifetime today is around eight years. If you’ve used yours for longer than that, it’s time to upgrade, as it has likely absorbed a fair amount of sweat and may have begun to degrade in quality, sagging and no longer offering the support needed for a good night’s sleep.
According to scientific studies, a new mattress can even help you breathe better, lessen the risk of allergic reactions, alleviate back pain, promote better air circulation, be easier to clean, and, of course, help you sleep more soundly.
Whether you’re in the UK, the US or Canada, mattresses have standard sizes. It’ll be relatively easy to buy a mattress that fits your bed frame as long as you follow these standard sizes, though you may need to measure your bed to fit your bedroom’s design. An oversized mattress may drive you to distraction and look incongruous, whilst a small one could cause discomfort.
The standard mattress sizes and dimensions for your consideration are:
Small single: 75cm x 190cm
Single: 90cm x 190cm
Small double: 120cm x 190cm
Double: 135cm x 190cm
Kingsize: 150cm x 200cm
Super kingsize: 180cm x 200cm
Emperor: 200cm x 200cm
These standardised dimensions ensure you can find the perfect fit for any space or sleeping arrangement. Compact options like singles and doubles are ideal for smaller rooms or guest spaces, while the increasingly popular king and super king sizes offer generous space for couples. Emperor beds and other larger sizes are available for those seeking maximum sleeping area, but the most important factor is finding the right balance between your room’s dimensions, your lifestyle needs, and your comfort preferences.
Many people find that mid-range sizes offer the sweet spot between spaciousness and practicality, while still leaving enough room for bedside furniture and easy movement around the bedroom. If space-saving is a priority, consider foldable mattresses – they can stand upright in a closet or slide under a bed when not in use. Ideal for guest rooms or multi-use spaces.
Mattress Firmness
Firmness can be measured, too. As a rule of thumb, heavier people prefer firmer mattresses because they provide better support, whereas lighter people opt for softer or medium mattresses. But that is a very general rule. You should also consider personal preference and your natural sleeping position, of course.
Mattress firmness is graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being extra soft, 10 being extra firm and 6 (medium firm) generally considered the norm.
Of course, there are more esoteric concerns when considering the size, shape and placement of your mattress. The ancient Chinese practice of Feng Shui can help inform these decisions.
So far, so simple. But let’s be honest here; cleaning your mattress is another story entirely. If you have a washable one, it may take you an entire day to clean it. Instead, save your time by using a mattress topper and other accessories. That way, you can clean the outer layers and protect the mattress itself.
They also prevent the ruinous effect of spills, stains, sweat and the rest. Instead, you could peel the outer layers and throw them in the washing machine to save time. Let’s face it; nobody has time to clean a mattress and hang it out to dry, and washing it may actually do more damage than good.
No matter how you slice it, cleaning a mattress isn’t as easy as it sounds. So, choose easy-to-clean mattress accessories to save yourself from a housekeeping nightmare.
Sleep Better & Save The Earth
The last factor in choosing a mattress for your bedroom is mattress recycling. Yep, we’ve all seen mattresses chucked somewhere by the side of the road, often soiled and always unsightly.
Instead, it’s a conscious decision to choose a recycle-friendly mattress because sooner or later, you’ll need to replace it. Think ahead because discarded mattresses are a growing environmental concern, and check out our guide on eco-friendly mattresses here.
Does jam or cream come first on your scone? And how do you pronounce the damn thing? Do you cut your sandwiches into squares or triangles? Should the milk or tea go in the mug last?
Yep, for such a longstanding and beloved British tradition, and one which brings family and friends together, certain elements of an Afternoon Tea party aren’t half divisive. But really, these little vignettes and verbal duels are all part of what makes the spectacle of High Tea so enjoyable and so quintessentially British.
Indeed, afternoon tea is a British staple and immediately conjures images of grand dining halls and stacked silver trays of dainty sandwiches and cakes.
Whether you’re seeking out afternoon tea in this kind of location or you fancy hosting your own, we’ve come up with seven ways in which you can make it a unique gathering to remember. Here’s how to throw the perfect afternoon tea party with a twist.
Source The Set-Up From Charity Shops
First things first, you will need the basic equipment for your afternoon tea, for convenience of serving and more importantly, for the sake of custom. This includes a tiered cake stand where you will place the cakes and sandwiches. The cake stand is traditionally the centrepiece of the occasion, and this isn’t an item you should cut corners or get experimental with. Doing so might lead to all of your carefully curated savoury and sweet treats ending up on the floor.
Crockery – the teapots, teacups, plates, cutlery and cake knives used – also plays a defining role in any afternoon tea party. Ideally, this is the occasion you’ve been saving your best china for, but if you don’t own any, the daintiest crockery in your kitchen cupboards will do.
Alternatively, you could source your crockery from charity shops. Though, admittedly, it’s unlikely you’ll find a matching set, the shelves of your local Shelter or Oxfam are often blessed with exactly the kind of delicate china such an occasion demands.
Finally, add some lacy doilies and artfully folded napkins for that finishing flourish.
Traditional Tea Mixed With A Few Surprises
Without doubt the most important element of an afternoon tea is the tea itself. When your guests arrive, they will likely be parched and expectant. As such, it’s important to make sure you have tea ready and waiting for them. You should be very selective when choosing the beverages for your afternoon tea party. Most people expect only the finest, speciality teas to be served.
A traditional English Breakfast blend is a firm favourite, and Earl Grey a crowd pleaser, too. However, you could tempt your guests with something a little more unusual such as a power green tea, for the ultimate teatox, filled with antioxidants and nutrients. Or for the more daring, try a chilli chai tea for that fiery kick. On warmer days, try brewing an iced tea using your favourite tea and add slices of citrus fruits for a refreshing twist.
But in all honesty, guests will be expecting high-quality, loose-leaf teas. The aforementioned Earl grey or white rose and raspberry teas usually go down well. Throwing caution to the wind, of course, and serving coffee is totally acceptable, too, but if you don’t want to stray too far you could opt for green tea or jasmine tea.
We also suggest investing in proper tea-making equipment (like strainers or infusers) because this will bring out the very best flavours for your guests to enjoy. Go that extra mile, and your guests will be rewarded with the finest cup of tea.
You could, of course, forgo the tea altogether…
Not Tea Total
What, you thought this thing was just about drinking tea and eating scones? As with almost every British institution, a large part of the occasion is actually about providing cover for a cheeky afternoon drink. Not serving some bubbles, then, would be sacrilege.
Rather than splashing out on champagne, English sparkling wine provides the perfect alternative to complement your afternoon tea, and is so fashionable right now.
Pair your afternoon tea with local sparkling wine, Blanc de Blancs from Cotswold vineyard Woodchester Valley, an elegant English sparkling wine with aromas of baked apple, citrus and biscuit. For an added twist, why not serve your favourite tipple with a splash of elderflower or raspberry liqueur.
Scones Are Non-Negotiable
Not only will the tea selection have to be impressive, but the food you serve will also need to be exquisite and appropriate to the occasion.
Whether you pronounce it ”scon” or ”scoooone”, the scone’s presence in the spread is non-negotiable. If you don’t serve them, then we’re afraid to say that it’s just having a cuppa with friends. Choose your pronunciation, and don’t falter.
Pledge allegiance to a method and stick to it; ‘the Devonshire’ dictates that you should smother a scone in cream before adding jam, while the groupies of ‘the Cornish’ persuasion insist jam should be applied first. But most importantly, serve the very best version you can muster (or buy them in – there’s no shame in that).
Of course, you’re here for afternoon tea with a twist, so why not mix things up with your scones, serving a veritable feast of global flavours in the form of coconut and mango scones, a luxurious buttermilk version, and a Mediterranean savoury version containing olives, sun-dried tomatoes and a basil cream.
Get Experimental With The Rest Of The Spread
Of course, any self-respecting host will serve up a wide variety of savoury and sweet treats for guests – though if the baking feels a bit ambitious, an afternoon tea delivery can take care of the heavy lifting.
Either way, make sure that you keep some of those classic ‘crowd pleasers’ on the menu, namely; egg mayonnaise sandwiches; cucumber with cream cheese and smoked salmon sandwiches; macarons; Battenberg; and éclairs.
Make sure everyone in the group is catered for, and provide more savoury foods such as scotch eggs, quiche and sausage rolls, accompanied with drinks for the non-tea drinkers such as a superfood smoothie for the ultimate health kick.
Think global, too; snack selections inspired by Turkey could form the basis of your own little kiraathane or go all the way back to the drink’s origins and sample some Chinese small plates while you enjoy a brew.
Turn Up The Entertainment
While the genteel nature of the afternoon tea is kind of the point for many, that might put off the party animals who are also fond of a French fancy.
Adding some disco tunes or a film might not be for the traditionalists – but if it’s your afternoon tea you can do what you like!
A few party games can liven up the atmosphere, although drinking varieties might not work so well with scalding hot water…
Things could be as raunchy or relaxed as suits your guests!
Make It Into A Tour
The afternoon tea is the classier sibling of the bottomless brunch, but both surely recoil in horror at their grubby cousin – the pub crawl.
Perhaps lessons could be learned from that marauding approach, however, if you can stand to put power to the pavement, you may be able to sample a composite afternoon tea from a number of establishments in your area. If you’re visiting somewhere new it might be a great way to get your bearings!
To help with that part of the plan, do yourself a favour and check out these 5 IDEAL afternoon teas in the UK. Now, shall I be mother?
Halfway through the 2020s, and the smart home features that once felt like science fiction are starting to look more like an inevitability. The technology is advancing fast, costs are dropping, and what seemed futuristic a few years ago is already cropping up in showrooms and new builds. So what might the fully connected, automated home actually look like by the end of the decade? Here are ten features we expect to become commonplace.
Seamless Integration Of Technology & Design
In 2030, smart home technology will likely be integrated seamlessly into our living spaces. This means that devices such as smart speakers, lighting systems, and security cameras will blend effortlessly with our interior design choices, creating a harmonious and unobtrusive environment.
One real-world example of a company that is currently integrating smart home technology seamlessly into living spaces is Google’s Nest. Nest offers a range of smart home products, including thermostats, cameras, doorbells, and smoke and CO detectors, that can be controlled via a single app. They are also now integrated with AI, though we’re not quite sure how we feel about that.
These products are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and minimalistic, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings and are compatible with a wide range of smart home platforms, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, enabling homeowners to control their devices with voice commands or through other smart devices.
Voice-Activated Control Systems
Voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri have already made their way into many homes. By 2030, these voice-activated control systems will be even more advanced, allowing homeowners to manage everything from lighting and temperature to entertainment and security with simple voice commands.
Some future advances expected in the realm of domestic voice-activated control systems include:
More personalised interactions: Voice assistants are already able to recognise different voices and personalise responses and experiences based on that recognition. In the future, we can expect even more personalised interactions, including the ability to recognise emotions and adjust responses accordingly.
Integration with more devices: From smart homes to smart cars, voice-activated systems will continue to be integrated with more and more everyday devices. This means that controlling your environment will become even more seamless and intuitive, as you’ll be able to interact with everything around you using just your voice.
Enhanced language processing: As voice-activated systems become more advanced, they will be able to process more complex language and understand context even better. This will enable more natural and conversational interactions, making voice control feel even more intuitive and effortless.
Integration with AI: Artificial intelligence (AI) is already being used to improve voice-activated systems, and this trend is only going to continue. As AI becomes more advanced, voice control will become even more intelligent, predictive, and personalised.
Advanced Lighting Solutions
Smart lighting systems will become increasingly sophisticated, offering homeowners the ability to customise their home’s ambiance with precision. This could include colour-changing LED lights, circadian rhythm-based lighting schedules, and even holographic displays for immersive experiences.
The Philips Hue is arguably the leading company in smart automated lighting for the home. They offer a range of products such as smart bulbs, lamps, and lighting fixtures that can be controlled via their mobile app. Their commitment to integration with other smart home devices – you can control their lights using voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant – and easy-to-use system set them apart.
Energy-Efficient & Sustainable Design
As concerns about climate change continue to grow, smart homes will prioritise energy efficiency and sustainability. Solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems will become standard features, while smart thermostats and energy management systems will help homeowners optimise their energy usage.
It’s likely that the control and even installation of such devices will be more inclusive, with home features like temperature, lights, and wall plugs all manageable remotely.
Windows have always been one of the home’s more passive features – they let light in, keep weather out, and that’s about it. By 2030, that’s set to change dramatically. Electrochromic glass, which can switch from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button (or automatically based on sunlight levels), is already being fitted in high-end builds and will likely become far more affordable and widespread.
Beyond tinting, smart windows could double as display screens, showing everything from the weather forecast to video calls, while maintaining transparency when not in use. Some manufacturers are also developing glass that generates solar energy without the need for rooftop panels, turning every window into a power source.
Privacy is another benefit – no more fumbling with blinds when the neighbours peer in. With smart glass, you can frost your bathroom window on demand or schedule your bedroom to go opaque at bedtime. Companies like View and Halio are already leading the charge here, and as production scales up, expect smart glass to become a genuine selling point in property listings by the decade’s end.
Smart Kitchens
In the not-too-distant future, smart kitchens will likely include a range of cutting-edge features that will revolutionise the way we cook and eat at home. One such feature could be smart fridges that utilise advanced AI algorithms to keep track of expiration dates, suggest recipes based on ingredients, and even place online grocery orders.
Smart ovens that can recognise different foods and adjust cooking times and temperatures without human intervention are also likely to become commonplace. Countertops that weigh ingredients, detect spills, and wirelessly charge devices are another possible addition. With the increasing sophistication of virtual assistants, smart kitchens could also be equipped with a voice-activated AI that can guide home chefs through recipes and answer any cooking questions they might have. The potential for innovation in this field is enormous.
Enhanced Security & Privacy
There are multiple benefits to ever-proliferating smart home systems – you can keep watch on your house even when miles away (sounds like a fun holiday!), the systems are sensitive and can easily trace unknown people and objects, and best of all, they can be customised to suit your needs.
In the future, smart security for the home will be more advanced and personalised. Smart cameras will have better image recognition, allowing for more accurate movement detection and alerts, as well as the ability to identify different people and animals.
Advanced AI systems will enable predictive analytics, which would allow homeowners to receive alerts when unusual activity is detected around the home. Integration with other smart home devices, such as smart locks and lighting, will allow for more comprehensive security measures.
Voice-activated assistants will also offer hands-free control over security systems, including the ability to arm and disarm alarms or lock doors remotely. Overall, smart security for the home will be more intuitive, personalised, and integrated, making it easier for homeowners to keep their property and loved ones safe.
Health & Wellness-Focused Design
Our living spaces will be designed with our health and well-being in mind. Air purification systems, ergonomic furniture, and smart sleep technology will be integrated into our homes to promote physical and mental wellness.
Smart home technology could also be employed to encourage physical activity by monitoring and measuring movement and activity levels and providing tailored exercise recommendations, not dissimilar to current innovations in the world of smart home gyms, just supercharged.
Additionally, smart homes could incorporate advanced non-invasive health monitoring (freaky) and diagnostic tools to track vital signs and detect early symptoms of illness, offering a truly holistic approach to health and wellness.
Virtual & Augmented Reality
By 2030, virtual and augmented reality technologies will have matured significantly, allowing for immersive entertainment experiences and virtual interior design tools. Homeowners will be able to ‘try on’ different home decor styles and furniture arrangements before committing to a purchase or renovation.
Finally, robotics and automation will play a significant role in the smart homes of 2030. From robotic vacuum cleaners and lawn mowers to automated laundry folding machines, these innovations will streamline household chores and free up more time for leisure and relaxation.
Some robots may be designed to perform highly specialised tasks, such as medical care or assistance for the elderly, while others may simply function as family companions, capable of engaging in conversation and providing entertainment. Hey, they might even replace your spouse…
The Bottom Line
The smart, automated home of 2030 promises to be an exciting blend of cutting-edge technology, sustainable design, and enhanced functionality. As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible, our living spaces will become more efficient, comfortable, and enjoyable than ever before.
Or, alternatively, a home that turns against you and ends up as your nemesis. Just saying…
In an ever-changing world, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves grappling with stress and uncertainty. Whether it’s personal challenges, work pressures, or broader societal issues, these factors can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. However, it’s essential to remember that we have the tools to navigate tough times effectively.
Today, we’re exploring practical strategies to help you maintain your wellbeing during stressful periods. From embracing open dialogue and maintaining a regular exercise routine, to smart eating habits, practising gratitude, and prioritising sleep, these tips are designed to help you stay grounded, resilient, and positive, no matter what life throws your way. Let’s dive in.
Take A Moment To Talk
Though it may sound counterintuitive, sitting down and facing up to your feelings and the increasingly troubling state of the world is a healthier, more holistic way to approach this tough time, we think.
Instead, try to take proactive steps to take stock of the turbulent situation we find ourselves in. A regular practice of mindful meditation can help you do just that; only ten minutes a day can do wonders for realigning your perspective. If you’re new to the wonderful world of ‘taking a moment’, there are plenty of apps offering guided meditations and mindfulness exercises for a monthly fee. If meditation doesn’t work for you, do still make the time just to sit still for a few minutes each day, enabling space for reflection on what is, for everyone, a really confusing time.
Try to remain open, frank and honest with those around you about how you’re feeling. A problem shared is a problem halved and all that, and you may just find others are experiencing similar feelings as you, and have advice to share through learned experience.
Home Gym Haven
When the sun is shining and the temperature mild, exercise is easy, whether that’s taking yourself for a run, embarking on a long stroll or getting down the gym in one, dry piece. Peering out the window now, imagining the rays of summer sunshine feels like another world ago. Yep, winter can bring about a very different approach to exercise, when the temptation of the sofa is often too strong to get you in your gym kit and out the door.
But during tough times, it’s especially important to remember just how hugely, immeasurably beneficial exercise is, for both the body and mind, with the NHS recommending 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week, to boost mood, health and wellbeing, as well as keeping a whole host of issues at bay.
Don’t allow the longer, darker nights and colder temperatures to herald a more sedentary life until spring rolls around. Even if you’re not keen on going to the gym when the temperatures dip below freezing (hey, who is?) you can still get the blood pumping at home with some cardio and aerobic exercise, such as star jumps or running on the spot. It’s basic, we know, but it can make a worldof difference.
Diet Smarts
Of course, a healthy, balanced diet comes first, and is the most sustainable way to get all of the nutrition you need. That said, some choice supplements can help things to tick along nicely, too.
With more time spend indoors over winter, it might be tough to get enough that all important Vitamin D from the sun. Fortunately, there are various Vitamin D supplements out there, and as such, it might be sensible to stock up. Experts also advise taking a multi vitamin daily, one which contains Vitamin C as a priority, as well as zinc, to promote good metabolic function and strengthen the immune system.
Other supplements may soothe the stresses of a shift in the seasons. The amino acid L-Theanine can help reduce heart rate, inhibit the release of the ‘stress hormone’ cortisol and potentially, create a sense of relaxation approximately 30-40 minutes after ingestion. The good news is that it’s found in a cup of tea, but if you prefer, L-Theanine can also be bought in capsule form, for those crazy folk who don’t like tea.
Gratitude
Optimism can slip with the changing of the seasons, but in recent years experts have started recommending a new solution to help you put things in perspective; gratitude. Indeed, practicing gratitude is a great way to boost your emotional wellbeing, as it helps you appreciate the things you do have, rather than pining for unattainable, material items. Slowly but surely, your outlook changes, helping you take a more positive outlook on life.
Keeping a gratitude diary doesn’t have to involve writing down your hopes and dreams in essay form each night. Instead, most practitioners simply write down three things that they’re grateful for today, three things you enjoyed yesterday, or three things you’re looking forward to tomorrow, either just after waking up or just before bed, though of course, any time is fine. This is a wonderful way to gather your thoughts and learn to be thankful for what you’ve got.
Foster Social Connections
In times of stress, it’s easy to retreat and isolate ourselves. However, maintaining social connections can be a powerful antidote to feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. Reach out to friends and family, join local community groups, or engage in online forums that interest you. Remember, human beings are social creatures, and a sense of belonging can significantly boost our emotional wellbeing.
If you’re drawn to painting, start with a basic oil paint palette – a few primary colours, white, and some earth tones are all you need to begin exploring this rewarding medium. Don’t feel pressured to create masterpieces straight away; focus instead on the meditative process of mixing colours and applying paint to canvas.
Even simple exercises like creating colour swatches or painting basic still life compositions can help quiet a busy mind. They allow us to express ourselves, focus our minds, and achieve a sense of accomplishment. Plus, they can be a lot of fun! So, pick up that paintbrush, dust off that guitar, or start that blog you’ve been thinking about. Your mind will thank you for it.
The Importance Of Sleep
When the mind is racing, full of thoughts and concerns which haven’t had a productive outlet all day, it can be hard to get a full, replenishing night’s sleep. But being properly rested is so crucial to tackling stress and anxiety; according to the American Institude of Stress, ‘’anxiety and insomnia are two very common problems that may hamper your ability to fall asleep…both conditions can play off each other, making the other worse’’. And they’d know, right? Yep, this thing can be cyclical; get on top of one and you’ll likely develop a better control of the other.
Therefore, a good night’s Zzzeds must always be at the top of your list of priorities when taking care of yourself. Check out our tips on how to get more restorative sleep for more!
In the words of William Morris, “have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” And while that’s certainly a maxim worth remembering, when minimalism is a necessity due to lack of floor space, well, it doesn’t quite have the same ring to it.
Indeed, eeking out real estate around the home can be tough when you live in a small apartment. But ‘small’ doesn’t necessarily have to mean compact or cramped. Yep, the good news is that there are interior design approved tricks out there to maximise the space you do have, both visually and physically. All it takes is a little know-how and a lot of creativity. With that in mind, here’s how to find more space in a small apartment in 8 simple steps.
Double Duty Furniture
There are some really clever ways you can create space in your apartment involving practical but stylish furniture which boasts hidden storage potential.
Elle Decor points out that this ‘double-duty furniture’ not only looks stylish but gives you great storage options, and we couldn’t agree more with them. Indeed, furniture retailers are catching on, realising that there is a demand for maximising space in properties and are tailoring their offering to suit this. Storage benches or a simple footstool or poof which allows for storage does a great job of fusing the functional with a foolproof storage option.
Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind
Collapsible furniture is a fantastic resource that lets you enjoy all the functionality you need from a chair, table, desk or set of drawers, but only when you want it. When the item isn’t in use, you can seriously mitigate the space it takes up by reducing its size until its next outing is required.
Folding dining tables can be pulled away from the wall, used, then simply folded flat and returned to a corner again, whereas collapsible chairs can be folded and slotted under the bed or in a utility cupboard in between uses. It’s this flexibility which is so essential in small spaces, so do endeavour to seek collapsible or folding options as opposed to rigidly standing furniture.
Cut To Size Cabinets
In the quest to maximise space in a small apartment, one cannot overlook the importance of cut to size cabinets. Specifically designed to suit your space requirements, these types of cabinets can be the key to unlocking more room in sometimes compact living quarters.
Their main advantage lies in their customisable nature. They can be designed and built to fit the exact dimensions of your wall or corner, ensuring no precious space goes to waste. Furthermore, these tailored cabinets can be fashioned with numerous compartments, enabling organised storage and reducing clutter. In short, cut to size cabinets are a novel solution worth investing in when attempting to create more space in a small apartment.
Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff
Not just a great life tip, this applies to small apartments, too. What we mean is that you should prioritise finding storage solutions for the really bulky items as a matter of urgency, rather than worrying about a couple of rogue leads or shampoo bottles.
Because it’s the heavyweight kit which takes up so much room. If you’re a cyclist, for example, the amount of floor space a bicycle takes up is ridiculous, especially when squeezing past the handlebars is taken into account; a recipe for disaster and damage, no doubt.
As the team at Stash Bee, who offer self storage in Leicester, tell us, clever storage solutions for those big, bulky items is vital, so in the case of your trusty commuter-friendly wheels, get it up on a hook, on the wall. As for your cycling kit, just stuff it all in a bag and on the back of the bathroom door. Done!
Stash In The Bathroom
If your bathroom barely manages to play host to the basics, like toiletries and loo roll, without overflow (hmm, perhaps the wrong term there) it’s time to put the minimal space here to better use. Pull-out storage baskets, wall hooks, over-door hangers and shower caddies are all brilliant ways to get more bang for your bathroom-storage buck.
With more storage and hanging options in place, plenty more items can take up permanent residency in the bathroom, thus freeing up space in your bedroom, which let’s be honest, is more of a priority. Just be sure that you exercise a little caution, as there are certain things that shouldn’t be stored in a humid bathroom.
So Niche
If you own a small apartment, you can decide to be more adventurous with permanent fixture adjustments which add space. Taking a few doors off can be a fun way to start, to get a more open-plan vibe working for you, but what about building shelving into all those empty wall niches, too? They might make good wall art display areas, but we’re focusing on space saving here, so populate that wall niche with as many shelves as you can fit, potentially doubling your storage. Floating shelves work best, as they leave a neater finish and look more contemporary. Additionally, consider installing floating tables, which provide functional workspace or dining surfaces without occupying floor space.
Get Crafty In The Kitchen
If you haven’t noticed how much space is wasted in your kitchen cupboards already, you will now we’ve mentioned it. Sorry about that. Indeed, the backs of your cabinet doors can often lay dormant but for a solitary tin of tuna, but really, this area represents prime real estate for integrated bins, shopping bag storage and even spice racks. Talk about practical kitchen improvements that make an aesthetic impact, too.
By clearing the bulky clutter out of the actual cupboards, you’ll be able to keep your surfaces clearer and free up floor space too. Without a freestanding bin, for instance, you’ve created a whole extra corner which you can move around in more effortlessly. And that’s why you’re here right?
You can also put your wall space to better use, by adding a pegboard with hooks that can easily house pans and Tupperware lids, both of which seem to eat up so much cupboard space. Yep, there are so many kitchen storage solutions out there, if only you look.
Not Just A Shoe Rack
We’ve all seen those door-mounted shoe holders with plastic pockets for your favourite footwear, but are you seeing the potential for more? We certainly are. A perfect solution for organising everything from cleaning products to first-aid supplies, medications and even toiletries, they can be hung inside a cupboard door, out of sight but still always within easy reach, and far better than being splayed out on the floor ready to be tripped over.
That’s not to say they don’t work well for shoes. Discarding bulky shoeboxes that need to be stacked and tessellated perfectly will free up an enormous amount of shelf or under-bed space that can be used for other storage needs. Sure, it’s a game of Tetris at every turn, but it’s worth it for the extra room and peace of mind you’ll create.
The Bottom Line
Small apartments don’t need to feel claustrophobic, as long as you decorate and innovate with space-saving initiatives in mind. By freeing up floor and cupboard space using simple tricks and hacks, you’ll lift the burden of clutter from your apartment, making it more peaceful, and most importantly, spacious place to spend time.
The European winter ski season is nearly upon us, with early December traditionally welcoming the requisite snow blanket over The Alps, and in turn heralding the opening of the proverbial gate into the continent’s greatest slopes.
This season is looking like a busy one, with Ski Mag predicted huge snowfall this winter. We don’t blame anyone seeking that sense of escapism after the couple of years we’ve all had, but for those still in the planning stage of their skiing holiday, let’s explore 7 of the best resort villages in the Swiss and French Alps for ski season 24/24.
Saas-Fee, Switzerland
We start in Saas-Fee, a place known for both the quality and predictability of its snow. As any keen skier will attest, those two attributes are a perfect mix for a holiday on the slopes.
Nicknamed ‘the pearl of the Alps’, owing to its position amongst 13 peaks including Switzerland’s highest, the Dom, Saas-Fee boasts over 150 kilometres of ski slopes and 1’800 metres of vertical. Whilst this might sound like a hair-raising proposition, Saas-fee is actually well-known for being perfectly suited to beginner and intermediate skiers, with a practice slope and nearly 40 kilometres of beginner slopes.
The resort village itself is car-free, with a luxury ski chalet in Saas-Fee perfectly suited for a skiing holiday with the children… The family that skis together, stays together, after all.
Perched at 1,500 metres in Switzerland’s southwestern Valais canton, Verbier stands as the crown jewel of the 4 Vallées ski area, offering a staggering 410 kilometres of marked runs that cater to every skill level – though it’s particularly renowned for its challenging off-piste terrain that draws expert skiers from around the globe.
The resort has earned its reputation as one of the Alps’ most prestigious destinations, attracting a cosmopolitan mix of serious skiers and glamorous socialites. Mont Fort, reaching an impressive 3,330 metres, serves as the resort’s highest point and offers heart-stopping views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc massif. From here, expert skiers can tackle one of the most challenging black runs in the Alps, while intermediate skiers can find their sweet spot on the numerous red runs that criss-cross the mountain.
But Verbier’s appeal extends well beyond its slopes. The resort village pulses with an electric après-ski scene that rivals St. Moritz and Courchevel, with Le Rouge, Pub Mont Fort, and the infamous Farm Club drawing in crowds until the early hours. The town itself maintains its traditional charm with wooden chalets and cobbled streets, while housing some of Switzerland’s most exclusive boutiques and restaurants. Whether you’re seeking extreme skiing, luxurious accommodation, or simply that perfect Swiss Alpine atmosphere, Verbier delivers on all fronts.
Laax, Switzerland
If that all sounds a little pedestrian for you, then perhaps you might want to head north-east to Laax, which has been voted as the ‘World’s Best Freestyle Resort’ at the World Ski Awards for six years on the bounce.
Because of this, Laax has become one of the coolest (and that’s not just the temperature!) ski resorts in the world, populated by pros who head here to have a go on Laxx’s halfpipe, the world’s largest.
Here, the skiing happens in the midst of the Vorab Glacier (over 3’000 metres at its summit) and on the 225 kilometres of slopes, runs and trails of Vorab and four other interconnected mountains.
Laax is also revered for its environmental credentials, with the resort pioneering the concept of ‘greenstyle’, which aims to see the resort become the world’s first to be totally self-sufficient and use 100% sustainable resources. Bravo to that, we say!
Away from the slopes and half-pipes, Laax is also ideal for winter hiking and is home to some of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes.
Espace Killy, France
Named after Val d’Isere native and three-time Winter Olympic medal winner Jean Claude-Killy, Espace Killy combines the two iconic resorts of Val d’Isere and Tignes, coupling 300km of downhill skiing.
Situated close to the Italian border, Espace Killy is defined by the Grande Motte Glacier at its summit, which rises some 3600 metres above the group of villages that make up this high altitude ski resort.
In Tignes, the action is focused around Val Claret; the highest village at 2’300 metres and with direct access to the slopes (there are five lifts here, all within a few minutes of each other), as well as plenty of bars. In fact, there are two nightclubs in town notorious for debauchery, the Blue Girl and the Melting Pot.
Speaking of debauchery, Tigne’s sibling Val D’isère is famous on the snow circuit for its raucous apres-ski, a reputation which is defined largely by globally celebrated apres-ski bar La Folie Douce, where a level of impropriety is actively encouraged. It’s even earned Val D’isère the nickname of being ‘Ibiza on the Snow’.
It’s also here where you’ll find the infamous black downhill run, La Face. So, whether you’re looking to get off your face or tackle La Face, you’ll find Espace Killy an incredibly satisfying place.
Another collection of Tarentaise Valley resorts with a quirky name, Paradiski primarily encompasses La Plagne, Les Arcs and Peisey Vallandry. The former is particularly good for beginners and intermediate skiers, as it’s home to plenty of gentle runs and the longest ‘funslope’ in Europe, as well as a 1500m Olympic Bobsleigh which is now open to the public.
For something a little more full-throttle, the ski resort of Les Arcs was the first of its kind in Europe, boasting ski-in and out apartment access as standard and plenty of hair raising descents.
If you’re planning a ski holiday in Paradiski, it’s important to know that the villages here are, rather prosaically, named numerically. The original village, for instance, is Arc 1600, and the most party-heavy is Arc 1800. In Arc 2000, on the other hand, the ice bar known as Igloo Village attracts tourists to its freezing cold climes for cocktails and traditional Savoyard fare.
Nestled in the Tarentaise Valley of the Alps is Meribel, a ski resort which is part of the Three Valleys Ski area, the largest on earth with 600km of piste. It’s particularly suited to beginners, with green runs making up around a tenth of the total offering here, and the Easy Rider slopes safe and accessible for all.
Ski season here lasts from early December to late April, and if you’re after a longer holiday with a greater frequency of challenging runs, Meribel is perfectly positioned between Courchevel and Val Thorens. That said, accommodation here is particularly lovely, andis a touch more affordable than its neighbouring resorts. When combined with the easy links between the Three Valleys ski resorts, this makes Meribel the perfect launchpad to hit the superb slopes of this region.
We finish, somewhat topsy-turvily, at the summit of the highest winter sports area in the Alps, Switzerland’s Zermatt. Here, altitudes reach almost 4’000 metres, with the resort resting in the shadow – or, rather, bathing in the glory – of the Matterhorn with Italy on the other side. In fact, at 3’295 metres in altitude, you’ll find the legendary Theodul Pass, which allows you to descend from Switzerland’s side of the Matterhorn down into Italy via a spectacular sloping trail.
So spectacular it is, that we’ve run out of superlatives and energy to ski onwards. Now, where’s the best bar for a spot of apres-ski?
There’s something almost poetic about exploring Italy by bicycle. Perhaps it’s the way the morning mist clings to Tuscan cypress trees as you climb yet another hill, or how the Ligurian Sea sparkles beyond each hairpin bend of the Cinque Terre.
In a country where life moves at a speed that entirely depends on when you had your last espresso, cycling offers a rhythm that feels just right – fast enough to cover ground, slow enough to absorb every detail.
And you can only, truly absorb every detail if your mind isn’t fixated on plotting your next move the whole damn time. We’re here to lighten the load, metaphorically speaking, and help you get ahead with the planning side of things, so you can luxuriate in that feeling of the open road properly, fully and without tedious distraction.
With that in mind, here are some suggested itineraries that piece together sections of Italy’s most beautiful roads, many immortalised in the country’s great cycling races. You’re in for one hell of a ride…
The Chianti Classic
Route: Florence to Siena loop (suggested itinerary)
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Duration: 3-5 days
IDEAL for: Intermediate cyclists who appreciate combining cultural visits with their riding. The route offers plenty of opportunities to stop at historic towns, vineyards, and local restaurants, making it perfect for those who view cycling as part of a broader Italian experience rather than purely about covering distance.
This suggested route through Tuscany’s undulating landscape incorporates sections of the famous Strade Bianche race, known as “Italy’s most beautiful race”. The white gravel roads that give the race its name create one of cycling’s most spectacular one-day events each March, when professional riders battle over the steep hills of Siena province. Our leisure-paced itinerary follows some of these iconic gravel sections while also taking in the classic Tuscan landscape between Florence and Siena.
The route can be customised to your preferences, but we suggest including the stretch through Gaiole in Chianti, where the famous L’Eroica vintage cycling event starts each October. This non-competitive celebration of cycling heritage attracts thousands of enthusiasts riding pre-1987 bikes along the historic white roads. It’s also massively popular with motorcyclists.
Insider Tip: The majority of cycling tours in Italy are timed for May or September, to avoid both the summer heat and crowds. The morning light in these months is particularly magical for cycling through the Tuscan countryside, and you’ll find many agriturismi (farm stays) more readily available for overnight stops.
IDEAL for: Experienced cyclists and climbing enthusiasts who relish steep ascents and technical descents. This route is best suited to those with good fitness levels and experience in mountain riding.
This challenging circuit incorporates some of the most famous climbs in professional cycling. The Passo Giau (2236m), regularly featured in the Giro d’Italia, was the scene of Egan Bernal’s epic solo victory in the 2021 edition through the snow. The Passo Falzarego (2105m), another Giro favourite, has been crossed more than 40 times in the race’s history.
You can adapt this route to your abilities by choosing which passes to tackle – the classic combination of Giau and Falzarego makes for an unforgettable day, while adding the Passo Pordoi (2239m), known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, creates an even more epic challenge. This pass has been crossed more times than any other in Giro history and hosts the Cima Coppi (highest point) of the race when included in the route.
Insider Tip: Start your ride no later than 7am to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the Dolomites during summer months. Always carry a lightweight waterproof jacket and arm warmers, as temperatures can vary dramatically between valleys and mountain passes.
Sicily’s Coastal Circuit
Route: to Cefalù (suggested itinerary incorporating Giro di Sicilia routes)
This suggested itinerary pieces together sections of the Giro di Sicilia race route, including parts of the dramatic coastal road that regularly features in this spring stage race. The route through the Madonie Mountains follows roads used in the 2023 edition, where Damiano Caruso thrilled local fans with a decisive attack on the final climb.
The beauty of this route is its flexibility – you can follow the flatter coastal sections for easier riding, or challenge yourself on the inland climbs that have tested professional riders in both the Giro di Sicilia and the Giro d’Italia’s Sicilian stages.
Insider Tip: The coastal roads can get busy with traffic, particularly in summer. Plan to tackle these sections early in the morning and save the quieter inland routes for later in the day. Local cyclists recommend carrying extra water during the summer months, as drinking fountains are less common than in northern Italy.
Route: Conegliano to Valdobbiadene (following sections of the Giro d’Italia time trial route)
Distance: 60 km
Duration: 1 day
IDEAL for: Wine enthusiasts and photographers who enjoy a challenging day ride. This route suits cyclists who appreciate a good climb followed by a rewarding glass of Italy’s finest sparkling wine.
This route follows parts of the spectacular 2020 Giro d’Italia time trial course, where Filippo Ganna powered to victory through the UNESCO-listed Prosecco vineyards. Known locally as the ‘Strada del Prosecco’, these roads have also featured in the Giro Rosa (now the Women’s Giro d’Italia), offering challenging climbing among some of Italy’s most prestigious wine estates.
Insider Tip: Book your vineyard visits in advance, as many require reservations. The best time to cycle this route is during the harvest season (late August to early October) when the vines are heavy with grapes and the whole region buzzes with activity.
The Great Lakes Tour
Route: Lake Como to Lake Garda (suggested itinerary incorporating Il Lombardia routes)
Distance: 180 km
Duration: 2-3 days
IDEAL for: Confident cyclists who enjoy varied terrain and dramatic scenery. Perfect for those who want to combine challenging riding with opportunities to explore historic lakeside villages and elegant villas.
This suggested route connects two of Italy’s most famous lakes via roads that have witnessed some of cycling’s greatest moments. The section around Lake Como incorporates parts of Il Lombardia’s finale, including the famous Madonna del Ghisallo climb – a chapel at its summit serves as cycling’s spiritual home and houses a fascinating museum of cycling history. The route to Lake Garda can be customised to include varying degrees of challenge, from the gentle lakeside roads to more testing climbs in the pre-Alpine foothills.
Insider Tip: The roads around Lake Como can get extremely busy, especially on weekends. Plan your departure from Como for early Sunday morning when traffic is at its lightest, and consider taking the ferry across some sections of the lakes to avoid the busiest stretches of road.
The Bottom Line
While these suggested routes piece together some of Italy’s most beautiful cycling roads, they should be viewed as starting points for planning your own adventure. The joy of cycling in Italy lies in the flexibility to adapt your route based on your interests and ability – whether that means tackling the same legendary climbs as your cycling heroes or meandering through quiet backroads in search of the perfect gelato stop.
