Feast your eyes on 10 of the most haunted locations across the UK

It’s Halloween and we’re celebrating by sharing frightening news of haunted places of interest. Outdoors experts from Gardening Express have revealed some of the spookiest spaces around the UK.

From woodlands and nature reserves to entire villages it’s thought these are 10 of the most haunted gardens, parks, and cemeteries across the country. Recommended for those looking for spooktacular adventure.

Dare to scare: House of horrors! Brits say spooky house syndrome gives them the creeps

“We’ve researched and revealed some of the scariest outdoor spaces in the country,’ explains a spokesperson for Gardening Express. ‘These are places steeped in history, myths and legends, from cursed trees and old battlefields to vampires and witches.

‘The entirety of one certain village has earned a spooky reputation over the years. And whilst you might assume every cemetery could be haunted to some degree, there’s one in particular that trumps the others.’

Take a peek, if you dare…

1. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall

Gardening Express

‘Hauntings have terrified members of staff at Heligan for many years. With one gardener simply refusing to lock up the garden on his own at night. A link is often made between the ‘atmosphere’ at Heligan, and the fact that so many staff were lost in the First World War.’

2. Green Park, London

You may think of this as a great green space to head great place to head for a day out, but not all of the parkland is rumoured to be welcoming.

‘Legend has it that there’s one sinister “Death Tree” within the grounds which should be avoided at all costs. It’s said that anyone who falls asleep in the shade of the tree’s branches never wakes up again. The tree has only been identified in the past by claims of a black figure that’s been spotted under the tree, park wardens have said they’ve heard a man’s voice around the area, and moans have been heard coming from the tree.’

3. Pendle Hill, Lancashire

‘Home to the twelve Pendle Witches who were hanged at Lancaster Castle in 1612 – and buried on the ominous hill overlooking the village of Newchurch. Ghost hunters often climb the hill on Halloween to see if they can catch any ghostly activity.’

4. Cannock Chase, West Midlands

Gardening Express

‘Cannock Chase is a large densely woodland that has become known as one the UK’s most active paranormal hotspots. Most famously it’s known for its ‘werewolf’ sightings, and the monster apparently prowls the outskirts of Stafford.’

‘There have been numerous reports from people who live in the area who say they’ve seen what they claim to be a ‘hairy wolf-type creature’ walking on its hind legs around the German War Cemetery, just off Camp Road, in between Stafford and Cannock. Several of the witnesses claim the creature sprang up on its hind legs and ran into the nearby bushes when it was spotted.

5. Bovey Heathfield Local Nature Reserve, Bovey Tracey

‘In the Bovey Heathfield Local Nature Reserve, on the edge of Dartmoor, an English Civil War battle is said to replay. The original battle took place on 9 January 1646.’

6. Queen’s Park, Glasgow

Gardening Express

‘The 150-acre park is situated on the south side of the city and is the site of the Battle of Langside in 1568. Which is said to have marked the start of the Marian civil war. Hundreds of the 10,000 men who fought here died, and it’s now said that the ghosts of the dead soldiers are spotted near the boating lake on the anniversary of the battle on May 13th.’

7. Jenkyn Place, Hampshire

‘The ghost of a housekeeper has been dubbed ‘Mrs Waggs’, but a woman in white has often been seen wandering the garden. There have also been reports of the sound of a phantom coach pulling into the drive.’

8. Rowton Moor, Chester

‘The Battle of Rowton Moor took place here during the English Civil War in 1645. It appears to have left its mark on the land. It was one of the bloodiest battles of the conflict with a huge number of English soldiers brutally killed here. The area is now said to be haunted by the ghosts of men on horseback, who apparently appear each year around September 24th.’

‘Visitors have reported hearing the faint sound of music echoing across the landscape, which is thought to be the ghost of William Lawes, King Charles’ court musician, who was shot down by a parliamentarian.’

9. Berry Pomeroy, Devon

Gardening Express

‘No one is quite sure what happened to Berry Pomeroy castle. As the shell of a once great building is all that’s left. Apart from a café, Berry Pomeroy is creepily empty. Allegedly a ‘Blue Lady’ is known for luring in passers-by only for them to fall of their death. And a ‘White Lady’ also haunts the dungeons after being imprisoned there.’

10. Pluckley Village, Kent

Gardening Express

‘The entire village of Pluckley has a reputation for being the most haunted in Britain – and it was named just that by the Guinness Book of World Records in 1989.’

Related: This quirky London home hides a secret indoor garden – complete with cobbled floors

‘Between 12 and 16 ghost sightings have been reported in the village, including a screaming man, a highwayman who appears at Fright Corner, a schoolmaster found hanged by a group of children and an old woman who used to sit on a bridge smoking.’

The post Feast your eyes on 10 of the most haunted locations across the UK appeared first on Ideal Home.

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Food Trends To Know In 2020

2019 was all about faux-meat, eco-friendly packaging and CBD – so what’s on the cards for next year? Here are Whole Foods‘ predictions for the hottest food trends of 2020…

Regenerative agriculture

While this year we’ve seen a positive shift towards eco-friendly packaging, in 2020 the focus will move towards helping the environment at a grass roots level. Regenerative agriculture is a term used to describe farming practices which improve soil health and minimise their carbon footprint. ‘Farmers, producers, academics, government agencies, retailers and more are taking a closer look at how to use land and animal management practices to improve soil health and sequester carbon,’ say Whole Foods.

Fancy flours

In 2020 we’ll be waving goodbye to traditional plain flour as flurry of new and interesting types enter the market. Coconut and buckwheat flour are already big news, but next year it’s predicted we’ll see a rise in fruit and vegetable flours, such as banana and cauliflower. Bakers will also be able to boost their creations with ‘super’ flour blends, delivering everything from protein to fibre.

GettyImages

West African influences

Rich and earthy West African flavours will continue to grow in popularity next year. The trio of tomatoes, onions and chilli peppers forms the base for many West African dishes, with ingredients like peanuts, ginger and lemongrass often featuring. We’ll also be seeing more West African superfoods on shelves, such as moringa and tamarind, as well as cereal grains including sorghum, fonio, teff and millet.

Alternative Sugars

Many of us already use things like honey and maple syrup as an alternative to refined sugar, but it looks like we’ll have more choice next year. Expect to see an influx in syrups from pomegranate, coconut, sweet potato and dates, a way to add unique flavours into everything from desserts to meat glazes.

Fridge snacks

Keen snacker? You’ll be spending less time in the pantry and more in the fridge in 2020, as the refridegable snack market is poised to take off. Think hard-boiled eggs with savoury toppings, pickled vegetables, drinkable soups, and mini dips and dippers. ‘Even nutrition bars have made their way from the shelves to the chiller, thanks to the addition of fresh fruits and vegetables,’ say Whole Foods. ‘These snacking innovations mean ingredients lists are shrinking and there’s a lot less guesswork in picking up a quick snack you can feel better about.’

Soy no more

According to Whole Foods, many brands are slowing down on soy, instead experimenting with mung bean, hempseed, golden chorella, avocado and other plant-based alternatives.

Everything butters and spreads

We won’t be saying goodbye to the hugely popular nut butter market, but a new wave of butters will be joining the party this year. Spreads made superfood pili are on the cards, and it’s likely pumpkin butter will be available year-round. ‘Many brands are looking to either eliminate the use of palm oil or promote a Responsibly Sourced Palm Oil certification and use nuts that are grown in ways with less likelihood for environmental impact,’ say Whole Foods.

Meat-plant blends

‘Butchers and meat brands won’t be left out of the “plant-based” craze in 2020, but they’re not going vegetarian,’ say Whole Foods. Tapping into the ever-growing flexitarian market, meat companies are experimenting with burgers that aren’t totally meat-free, but use less of it. Leading this trend is The Blended Burger Project, a movement started by the James Beard Foundation which takes classic burgers and blends them with at least 25 per cent fresh mushrooms.

Alcohol-free drinks

More and more of us are swerving hangovers these days, and drinks brands are taking note. Non-alcoholic beverages are popping up everywhere from shops to world-famous bars – many using what Whole Foods call ‘faux spirits’, a trend which is predicted to surge even more next year.

Rethinking the kids’ menu

By 2026 80 per cent of millennials will have children, and it’s likely many of them will be introducing adventurous foods to the family early on. ‘Food brands are taking notice for the next generation – possibly our first true “foodies” – expanding the menu beyond nostalgic foods with better-for-you ingredients and organic chicken nuggets. They’re bridging the gap from old-school basic kids’ menus and taking more sophisticated younger palates into consideration.’ Goodbye chicken nuggets, hello non-breaded salmon fish sticks!

READ MORE: London’s Best Food & Drink Pop-Ups / Cookery Courses in the UK and Ireland

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London By Boat: A Guide

Discover the best that London’s rivers have to offer. We’ve compiled the ultimate guide to London by boat, be it commuting, dining or hiring your own. Explore the waterways of the capital…

With London’s transport infrastructure more strained than ever, C&TH have compiled the essential guide to the most serene way to navigate the capital – by boat! You already know the Thames plays a vital role as both a channel for transporting people through the heart of London and as a playground for people to explore the wonders of the city. But there are also 400 other individual rivers and canals flowing through London, making it one of the most liquid capitals in the world.

London By Boat: A Guide

River Commute

River Bus

Transport for London runs six River Bus routes daily between Putney Pier in West London and Woolwich Pier in East London. (The River Bus Express runs before and after events at the O2 in North Greenwich.) Annually, London River Services carry more than 10 million passengers, connecting over 30 separate piers and docks along the Thames. Why not join the other 2,000 Londoners who commute by river daily? Undoubtedly the perfect way to begin and end your day, especially during the warmer months. Unsurprisingly, the number of commuters travelling by River Bus increases by over 50% during the summer months. For over 600 years, the Thames has served as a fundamental transport link in London and in 1997, Thames 2000 was launched. The £21-million project has regenerated the Thames and propelled the popularity of passenger transport services on the river. tfl.gov.uk

Boat Hire

GoBoat

Whilst GoBoat is one of the more recent companies to offer private boat hire in London, it has certainly made a splash! GoBoat offers a truly unique way to explore the canals of London as it allows you to be the captain of your boat and choose up to 8 friends to form your crew. No previous boating experience is required. The boats have been designed around the dining table for you to enjoy a chilled glass of bubbles whilst taking in the splendour of London’s waterways. Sustainability is a fundamental tenet of GoBoat. All materials are sourced responsibly and 80% of their boats are made from recycled plastic. There is also no need to be concerned that your journey on a GoBoat is causing any harm to the environment; the electric engines are charged after use, meaning no harmful pollutants contaminate the water. Set sail from their base in Merchant Square and cruise up to Little Venice, along the Regent’s canal to Camden Lock. Prices start from £59, goboat.co.uk

London Party Boats

The fleet at London Party Boats is monumental, with vessels that can hold up to 360 people. The company have been organising private hire boat parties in London for more than thirty years, so whether you’re planning a birthday, wedding or just fancy being spoilt onboard, London Party Boats have experience with all group sizes and budgets. Map your route as you take to the water or leave the navigation to the crew and unwind at the onboard bar! Prices start from £175, londonpartyboats.co.uk

Capital Pleasure Boats

Capital Pleasure Boats are committed to catering for every type of London boat party event. Designated event managers will create a party event individual to you – from club nights and 18th birthdays to 60th wedding anniversary parties. Their luxury party boats hold between 40 and 240 passengers and are available to hire year round, taking you from Greenwich Pier in the East all the way to Putney Pier in the West. Sit back and relax as you’re escorted along the 12 mile route, passing some of London’s most notable landmarks. Prices start from £205, cpbs.co.uk

Boat Tours

London Duck Tours

Hop aboard one of London Duck Tours’ iconic yellow vehicles and enter the wonderful world of amphibious travel. It is far more exciting than just an ordinary sightseeing bus tour or river trip. Families can see some of London’s most famous sights before the thrilling splashdown onto the river Thames! There is a fabulous range of sightseeing and themed tours including the historical D-Day Duck Tour, which explores the history of the Ducks, originally used in the Second World War. Do not fret, they have been completely rebuilt and modified to meet the stringent safety regulations of today. All scheduled tours leave from Belvedere Road, Waterloo, SE1. Prices from £22, londonducktours.co.uk

Dine Onboard

Tamesis Dock

Tamesis Dock lies in an unassuming stretch between Lambeth and Vauxhall Bridge. The converted 1930s Dutch barge is now a restaurant and cocktail bar with killer views of Parliament and Battersea Power Station. Relax on deck with a cocktail in hand as the sun glistens on the river, or perhaps sample one of the ever-changing craft guest ales, coming from both local and international breweries. Tamesis Dock is also available to hire for private events, with a capacity of up to 150 people. The barge regularly holds different music events and has played host to Bastille! Don’t miss out on this eccentric piece of London’s water history. tdock.co.uk

10 Things to Do in London This Week

The Yacht 

Spread over three decks, The Yacht is one of the finest examples of a converted boat in London. The precision and quality of finish in the cocktail lounge, terrace and restaurant is unparalleled for a boat of its size or location. For evenings on board, the chefs offer a fine dining, a la carte menu with a less formal dining option for lunches. Given that it is open all year round and has a 3am license, this is also a sensational spot to host your next bash. theyachtlondon.com

London Shell Co.

London Shell Co. have committed to using only the best ingredients and produce available. The restaurant works closely with its suppliers, ensuring their food is fresh, delicious and in season. They spend as much time sourcing and changing their wine list as they do their menus. The extensive list of wines relies on small artisanal producers and has new additions weekly. London Shell Co. offer 24 options by the glass and some hidden treasures in their “Wines of Prince” section. This eclectic restaurant serves the finest British seafood for the ultimate journey along the beautiful, historic Regent’s Canal. Relax as you float through the depths of the Maida Hill Tunnel and past iconic landmarks such as London Zoo and Regent’s Park. londonshellco.com

READ MORE: What’s On at The Royal Opera House | The UK’s Best Boat Restaurants

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Best artificial Christmas trees to dress your home for the festive season

Nothing says Christmas is on the way quite like the tradition of putting up the tree.

Whether real or faux, the experience is a magical one for many an excitable family. As lovely as they look and smell, thanks to central heating, the winter home is not a welcome environment for a real tree. And with lots of us putting decorations up in early December or even November these days, a real tree is tested to extremes as it’s expected to last the duration.

Let’s spare the real trees and go faux for Christmas from here on in. Forget vacuuming up pine needles every day, it’s far easier with an artificial with tree. With so many great realistic designs, that can last you for many years to come, we think it’s all the better to fake it.

For inspiration: How to decorate a Christmas tree – Ideal Home’s definitive step-by-step guide

Here at Ideal Home HQ, we have rounded up and tested all the best new artificial tree designs for 2019 and a few reigning best-sellers. All are hoping to be the tree of choice for your home for this and many Christmases to come.

Whatever your style, we’ve got it covered with our pick of the best artificial Christmas trees for 2019.

How we test our artificial Christmas trees

John Lewis & Partners

We’ve quite simply assembled each and every one of the trees below. We’ve then looked at the quality and durability, getting hands-on for the best results.

Like little elves we’ve been unboxing and packing away the trees to test how easy they are to assemble and store.

To test the branches and explore how well they withstand all manner of decorations, we’ve hung the heaviest hanging baubles and ornaments and observed what we’ve calling ‘the droop factor’. We’ve also placed tree toppers on each and every one to see if they fit properly. And we’ve been testing the topple-factor by pulling at the decorations, mimicking what excited children or curious pets might do!

We’ve had our noses on red alert to detect if any of the trees carry an unwanted scent. It’s safe to say we know a thing or two about artificial trees so fear not, this lot have been in good hands to ensure we’ve found the best.

As a general rule of thumb it’s best to have at least six inches between the top of your tree and the ceiling – remembering to allow for a topper. Contending for that accolade is the fabulously ‘French Navy’ tree from John Lewis & Partners; the ingenious half tree from Dunelm and the quirky space-saving tree from Argos – all well worthy designs with a difference.

Best artificial Christmas trees 2019

1. Balsam Hill Vermont White Spruce Flip Tree – best pre-lit artificial Christmas tree

This tree is simply stunning. It’s SO well lit it could easily live in the lobby of a 5-star hotel. It’s not cheap, but it is in a completely different league.

Balsam Hill are the crème de la crème in the world of artificial Christmas trees. The much-loved tree experts have expanded their range of artisan-designed, highly realistic Christmas trees to more than 250 beautiful designs!

An exciting new addition, for 2019, to the extension range is the Flip Tree, which guarantees a super easy set up thanks to an innovative flip design which eliminates the need to lift heavy sections.

This smart tree took under a minute to assemble! The base, on wheels for added easy, has a foot pedal that you press then simply flip the bottom half over, into place. The top part is in one section, this slots into the base with easy. Fix the brakes once it’s in position, so it can’t be moved and plug in the lights.

Founder, Thomas Harman, was inspired to start Balsam Hill by a family member who was allergic to live trees. He struggled to find a true-to-life, premium quality, artificial Christmas tree.  So he decided to create his own.

The meticulously hand-craft tree is made using Balsam Hill’s exclusive True Needle technology, beautifully replicating nature, including asymmetrical branches, subtle colour changes, and lifelike texture.

The tree is pre-lit, and the coverage is superb – plus they are on a remote control to adjust the light colour. This magnificent tree is dressed with 850 warm white LED lights – that’s enough to channel National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation vibes!

Being such a premium tree, as you might expect, it comes complete with a repair kit, a spare set of lights, bulbs, heavy-duty canvas storage bags for both sections and even gloves to protect hands from prickly branches during assembly!

This tree is covered by a 3-year warranty, which covers quality of tree frame; foliage; hinges and stand. Plus repair or replacement of lights.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H198cm x Dia137cm

Buy now: Vermont White Spruce Flip 6.5ft Artificial Tree, £849, Balsam Hill

2. Wilko Mixed Cones and Berries Artificial Tree – best 6ft artificial Christmas tree and best budget artificial Christmas tree

We were left pleasantly surprised by this tree, particularly given its bargain price. The rustic-style 6ft Christmas tree is pre-decorated with cones and berries, making it suitably well-dressed as it stands.

Once assembled it’s sturdy enough to withstand a gentle push and not falter. The main bulk of branches are classic faux needles, soft and flat PVC needles that look more tinsel-like than pine needles. Those are mixed with at least three on each that branch that feel more bristle-like – offering an element of realism. The natural green branches feature a light dusting of snow, for a gentle frosted look – rather than a blizzard.

Pine cones and red berries sprigs are evenly distributed throughout the whole tree. These are neatly attached with a fine wire, making them sit comfortably. The branches need separating and fluffing slightly to take them to their full potential.

No elements shed from this tree, meaning it required no clean up. This is an easy tree if you want style on a budget. Thanks to the foliage decorations you could even leave it as it is, if it suited. One set of lights felt adequate enough to dress this charmingly understated tree.

Ideal Home’s rating: 5 out 5 stars

Dimensions: H182.9cm x Dia109cm

Buy now: 6ft Mixed Cones and Berries Artificial Christmas Tree, £75, Wilko

3. The White Company pre-lit 1.5ft tree – best artificial Christmas tree in a pot

This mini but marvellous tree is the newest addition to The White Company tree collection for 2019. This tree is small but mighty. Compact in size, but characterful enough to enter into the spirit of the season. This mini potted tree is perfect if you’re not really a fan of having a Christmas tree. And added bonus, it’s not just for Christmas – you could this one out all year round if you so wished.

The slender branches are thoroughly realistic to both sight and touch. Even the base around the bottom of the tree is covered in a life-like moss earth-effect covering, adding to the realism. While the branches would support larger decorations they look a bit out of character, because the tree is so small. We’d recommend dressing with miniature baubles if you wish to add colour. But in all honesty, this tree is magical enough as it is.

Arriving complete, ready to pop straight onto a surface for display – this tree could not be more convenient. The pre-lit 1.5ft tree stands in a decorative willow basket, with a switch to control the lights neatly hidden in a compartment located in the base. The warm fairy lights, on an undetectable green wire, evenly distributed from top to bottom for a perfect finish. There are three settings for the lights On, Off and Timer.

Ideal  for a hallway console, coffee table or even a dining table as a festive centrepiece.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H46cm x Dia37cm

Buy now: Pre-lit Christmas Tree in Willow Basket 1.5ft, £30, The White Company

4. John Lewis & Partners Diamond Smoke Fir – best coloured artificial Christmas tree

Black and gold trees were so last Christmas. This year, at John Lewis & Partners, the new ‘it’ colour is ‘French Navy’.

This stunning shade of blue has a hint of sparkle, thanks to a holographic glitter finish. Despite the glitter-effect there was no transfer of glitter or dropping, meaning you don’t have to Hoover the surrounding floor or shower immediately after assembling. You’ll also avoid finding glitter on your face three days later!

It’s not realistic in colour but it certainly is in structure, because it’s so densely covered. The bottom tier has a formation of nine branches, then eight, then eight, then six to offer a thorough coverage. The branches throughout are sturdy and well supportive of all decorations, even the heaviest glass ornaments.

This weighty tree passed the push test too, it would certainly take a fair amount of pressure to topple over. We folded the tip in half, in order to comfortably support a tree topper. But once securely in place, the topper was perfectly fine and remained standing upright.

The middle is very tightly wound with the blue branch material, although it’s hardly even visible due to the generous coverage. It does have a faint plastic scent, but nothing to deter us from choosing it.

The statuesque height gives this tree real presence. With the trend for popular shades like Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue for decorating homes, this tree is our on-trend choice for Christmas 2019.

The only enhancement to improve this tree would be if it arrived pre-lit, to save dressing it with lights by hand.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Size dimensions: H210cm x Dia137cm

Buy now: Isla Diamond Smoke Fir Unlit 7ft Christmas Tree, £199, John Lewis & Partners

5. B&Q 6ft Corbier Flocked tree – best artificial Christmas tree with snow

This flocked snow design is new for 2019. The snow coverage is excellent, with a soft textured feel to the touch. The branches are entirely snow-covered, with the dusting heavier on the ends – as you’d expect on a real tree out in the snow. The core of the tree is also covered in a snowy finish, to blend in.

The first thing to point out is the fairly strong synthetic smell, due to the snow. It does also moult a fair amount when you assemble it, but after that the snow doesn’t come off when you shake the branches. Due to the heavy snow coverage the amount that drops off while assembling doesn’t affect the overall appearance. Meaning this tree should see you through many a festive season for years to come – still completely covered in snow.

Assembly is straightforward enough, thanks to the hinged branches. While they fall into place they do require fluffing out to make them less bunched.

The branches are sturdy and supportive of even the heaviest of hanging decorations. We found hanging the heaviest ornaments further in, along the branches, helps to avoid them drooping too much.

B&Q recommends dressing the tree with 240 bulbs – we used just one set of 200 and that was sufficient coverage. We’d say this tree is ideal in a hallway or garden room to create a real sense of an authentic white Christmas.

Fairy sturdy and durable, this tree will withstand the odd knock but there may be snow loss as a result.

Once the celebrations are all over this tree is enough to pop back in the same box – just make sure you have tape handy.

Ideal Home’s rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H183cm x Dia108cm

Buy now: 6ft Corbier Flocked Artificial Christmas Tree, £82, B&Q

6. Next Forest Pine Slim – best slim artificial Christmas tree

This is a fabulous design if you’re looking for a space-saving solution to Christmas decorating. The slender tree is surprisingly dense with spruce thanks to its 340 tips, so by no means are you short changed by having less tree. The branches feel more tinsel-like than imitation fir, but the deep saturated forest green helps to give the overall feel of a real tree.

Our Next Christmas tree was fairly steady on its feet, so to speak, you could have this in a heavy footfall area of the house – such as a hallway or kitchen-diner – no problem.

The tree comes in two sections, which join together with ease. It also features an instant lock stand, meaning there are no bolts to be lost over the years.

You do have the tease all the branches down into place, but this doesn’t take too long given how short they are. Being short in length keeps the branches feeling more on the sturdy side.

The branches supported all weight of decorations with ease, only dropping slightly at the ends – as you’d expect from even a real tree. The top was supportive of a tree topper, but as with so many we folded it down slightly to give extra support and structure.

Thanks to the slim aesthetic this tree only require one set of lights, which were easy to wrap around the tree without having to even move from the spot.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H180 x Dia76cm

Buy now: Forest Pine Slim 6ft Unlit Christmas Tree, £55, Next

7. Dunelm 6ft Half Tree – best half artificial Christmas tree

We’ve found the ultimate tree for those on a budget and with smaller spaces! Half the tree and over half the budget, this tree is a complete steal.

Where full-sized would be overwhelming, this quirky half-tree design is perfect. Who really needs to see the back of the tree anyway? It’s always the worst baubles that get hung round the back of a full-sized spruce.

The plush artificial green foliage is not all that realistic looking, but we wouldn’t say that’s this tree’s main purpose. It’s an attractive deep fir green, so in many respects it wins in the style stakes.

The slender design simply slots together with easy. The branches need pulling into place, which we’d recommend doing once it’s in place against the wall. It will sit flush, unless you have skirting boards (as we did), which makes it sit slightly forwards. You could weigh down the base but given it’s essentially rested against a wall it’s unlikely the tree will waver.

You only really need to see the front and offer a place under which to store presents, making this half tree excellent for both budget and space-saving. No wasted floor space or wasted decorations, plus half the tree means half the price – what’s not to love? It’s weird but totally wonderful when you think about it.

Ideal Home’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H180 x W82cm

Buy now: 6ft Green Half Tree, £15, Dunelm

8. Dobbies 6ft Ullswater – best frosted artificial Christmas tree

This tall attractive tree is the garden centre’s best-seller, year in year out. So we put it to the test to see just why.

On first impressions it’s a stunning tree. t feels fresh from a woodland scene, thanks to its gentle frosting of snow and thoroughly realistic fir-tree pine cones. The three sections slot together with ease, with the hinged branches falling into place nicely. We did find the individual branches were tightly bound and required a fair amount of effort to tweak into place. This caused a generous amount of snow loss during the process, so just be prepared to vacuum up the snow.

Once the branches were in place the tree felt sturdy on its feet, passing the gentle push test no problem. The bristly branches supported heavier decorations with ease. We’d recommend using block colours, so the decorations don’t get lost amongst the light dusting of snow.

Given how tightly the branches arrived, it took a length of time to tease them back into place to pack away in the box. We’re not saying this distracts from the tree’s attractive greatness, it’s just worth bearing in mind.

Ideal Home’s rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H182cm

Buy now: Artificial 6ft Ullswater Christmas Tree, £149, Dobbies

9. Argos Parasol tree – best tall artificial Christmas tree

Quirky tall trees are popping up all over the place at the moment! We can totally see why they have become popular, as a clever solution for pet owners wanting a Christmas tree.

The tall tree comes with two poles, with one branch filled section for the top – the parasol if you will. While the base has bolts to keep the main pole in place, the second pole section merely slots in – there is no extra securing element in place. It felt fairly unforgiving when we did the push test, purely because all the weight is is the top section.

The PVC flat bristle branches required minimal tweaking to make them perfectly spaced. The stand pole is tightly wound with a tinsel-like green material.

We used just one set of fairy lights. We avoided using them on the base, as not to draw attention to it, but as demonstrated above it does work well.

While this tree is a brilliant solution to stop pets and young children playing with the decorations, we can’t help but fear the top heavy nature could cause a potential hazard. We’d highly recommend weighing down the base to make it feel more stable and less likely to topple.

If you take these precautions, or don’t have to worry about little ones or pets, then this tree is a fabulous quirky idea to elevate your decor this season.

Ideal Home’s rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Dimensions: H182 x diameter 73cm

Buy now: 6ft Parasol Christmas tree, £40, Argos

Buying an artificial Christmas tree – everything you need to know

How do I make my fake Christmas tree smell real?

If you love a real tree larger for it’s glorious scent, fear not because you can emulate the same smell with a touch of trickery. In recent years Scentsicles have become a thing. These magical sticks are soaked in seasonal scents and they cleverly hang from the branches, undetected.

If you want a more subtle hint of scent you can hang pine cones interspersed on the inner branches, attaching them using green gardening twine. A bundle of cinnamon sticks would also do the job if you’re looking for an alternative Christmas scent.

TI Media

How much should I pay for an artificial Christmas tree?

There’s no real answer to this question. It all depends on what you’re looking for. You can pick up a budget tree under £50, from the likes of IKEA and Dunelm, that will do the job perfectly.

At a mid-range price point many of our high street favourites offer realistic 6ft/7ft trees for prices ranging between £120 to £250.

At the other end of the spectrum you have the likes of Balsam Hill who make the most realistic looking faux trees, but these range from anywhere from £100 up to £1000. It all depends on what kind of investment you wish to make.

Generally speaking, with artificial Christmas tress you generally get what you pay for.

What are pre-lit Christmas trees and should I buy one?

Pre-lit Christmas trees are simply trees that already have lights on. The beauty of buying a tree with the lights already on is firstly the saving – as there’s no need to buy extra lights. Secondly, the placement is a real bonus. As the lights are already evenly distributed throughout the whole tree, it saves you the job of fiddling about and potentially getting in a tangle over the perfect arrangement.

Never underestimate the importance of the lights on a tree, as they can anchor your whole decorating scheme – highlighting well-placed decorations and glinting in all the right places.

What colour artificial Christmas trees are on trend in 2019?

The most popular choice is white as the snow-covered tree dominates retailers this year. But in terms of a new on-trend colour we’d have to say navy is the most fashionable colour for 2019 – it’s the new black tree. As blue paint sales soar, the blue colour choice is no real surprise.

Related: Christmas colour schemes to brighten up your home during festivities this season

What’s the best way to store an artificial Christmas tree to keep it looking good?

Quite simply, the best way to store the dismantled tree is in the original box to save on excess packaging. However if you have larger storage boxes or containers these are ideal, to make access easier. As long as you keep the branches flat and un-squashed, your tree should last you for years to come. Store in a cool, dry space to preserve the condition.

The post Best artificial Christmas trees to dress your home for the festive season appeared first on Ideal Home.

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The Most Luxurious Spas in Laos

Devanshi Mody finds breathtaking scenery, healthy eats and sublime spa treatments in this magical corner of Southeast Asia.

Luang Prabang

Rosewood Luang Prabang

With astonishing hill-perched tents, the ravishing new Rosewood has catapulted to the acme of Laotian luxury. You’d think the tents, exotically and individually decorated by Bill Bensley and fetching over £1000/night, are the hotel’s highlight. But its best-kept secret is Sense, the spa tucked half-way up the gardened hill the tents preside over. At the spa reception, heated towels warm your neck as you peruse the excursive spa menu, before you’re escorted through verdured ways to the spa suites, where a bed stands over a glass panel, framing a stunning streaming cascade of plants. Over signature “Lost Remedies” treatments, Ly – among the best masseuses on earth – straightens even the tautest of muscles, rendering you fit to sprint uphill to your tent. Treatment compositions use herbs from the hotel’s gardens, besides organic ginger, pepper and mountain honey, and smell so delicious you’d eat your poultice and scrub. But much better to try chef Sebastien Rubis’ Royal Laotian cuisine at the romantic, garden-wrapped restaurant in the hotel’s colonial Great House. Alas, his assemblage of French wines annihilate even the sternest detox resolve.

BOOK: Doubles from £630++

Avani+ Luang Prabang

Conceived by legendary architect-turned-hotelier Adrian Zecha, fringing the Main Street of Luang Prabang’s old heritage town, the hotel is a miracle of minimalism, set around a sleek central pool. If the hotel’s 40 rooms are snug, the 4 spa suites are expansive, with the same spartan elegance. The Couple’s Suite conveniently has 2 individual changing areas with their own showers on either side. The spa boasts not one but two exceptional therapists, Noy and Sui – so you needn’t combat your partner for the best hands to effect the intensely vigorous 90-minute Deep Impact massage with lemongrass oil. The all-day restaurant has superb healthy salads, some of which incorporate the gleaming cherry tomatoes that grow around the restaurant’s outdoors terraces. But the hotel’s most exhilarating feature surely must be the street-set al fresco lounge terrace which spectacularly juggles private and public spaces – you feel you are at one with Luang Prabang’s streets and yet remain aloofly apart on this suave hotel terrace. As you nibble on salubrious Living Land Sandwiches, feast your eyes on the pageantry of temples, tourists and local life all around.

BOOK: Doubles from £300

Belmond Résidence Phou Vao

This beautiful hill-top retreat is secluded and serene. The Belmond boasts some of the loveliest suites; here, French colonial chic meets Asian exoticism, capturing the hypnotic romance of Luang Prabang’s bygone era like no other hotel in town. You won’t want to emerge from the seductive confines of your room – except for multiple excursions to the spa village, set around the spa’s private pool, in a delightful embrace of lotus ponds. Immense spa suites in dark wood exude a sensual oriental aura. Try a traditional hot bamboo treatment where steamed bamboo is used across your body to iron out and invigorate your muscles. Post-treatment, you may be escorted to a secluded gardened pavilion for a 500-candle dinner – “You can count the candles!”, the staff enthuse – amongst the most stunningly orchestrated private dining experiences. The spa’s rejuvenating therapies apart, it’s as therapeutic to simply luxuriate around the hotel’s main pool, watching verdant hills waver against cloudless skies. More therapeutic still is alms-giving to monks at dawn, followed by Luang Prabang’s first ever Breakfast Cruise. Float down the Mekong, past sleepy foliage that’s awakening gently in the soft morning sun, as your butler unveils a savvily composed picnic breakfast comprising all your favourites.

BOOK: Doubles from £459++

Sofitel Luang Prabang

This abode has all the grandeur and the glamour – as it should, originally built as the French Governor’s residence in the 1900s. Citadel-like, the haughty white exteriors enclose opulent gardens and the longest, most lavish lawns in all Luang Prabang, inlaid with exuberant fountains and an amethyst-tiled pool. The spa is inspired, occupying fabulous heritage wooden Lao houses on stilts. Laos is renowned for its coffee: at The Sofitel, you don’t just drink it but are burnished with it during the elaborate Bonjour Experience, which uses rich Lao coffee and coconut to exfoliate the skin and stimulate circulation. The ritual culminates in a relaxing bath and an aromatherapy massage. Another spa with more than just one outstanding therapist, you’ll have to book a few massages to decide between Da and Lee’s expertise. Post-spa, relish one of the resort’s celebrated pop-up dinners in the bowers of an immense tree in the front gardens. New chef Jeremie Muller ‘Frenchifies’ Laotian cuisine into streamlined, stunningly presented artwork, imparting unprecedented finesse to Luang Prabang’s dining scene.

BOOK: Doubles from £240

Pullman Luang Prabang

The latest addition to Luang Prabang’s hotel scene, it’s enormous and excursive, contrasting with the intimate, exclusive boutique properties which are the norm. This is perhaps the town’s first real “resort”, and a resolutely modern one too. The spa, set against a backdrop of far-away hills, is accessed after a buggy ride past in-house patches of paddy cultivation. The reception is so outrageously chichi; from it, you are led to spa villas set around beautifully landscaped gardens. Try the 4-hand massages, where therapists Pou and Vanh knead you with wondrous dexterity, or combine a 90-minute deep tissue massage with the best facials in Luang Prabang, with components like marine ferments, plankton and “sacred lotus,” imparting a distinctly local flavour.

BOOK: Doubles from £200

South Laos

La Folie Lodge

Eco-elegant, endlessly adventurous and eccentric beyond imagination, this lodge near the fabled Wat Phou Temple is owned by French aristocrat Antoine de Noailles and, like its owner, has character. You arrive by boat, which happens to be a floating platform with a scatter of chairs and umbrellas for shade. If you arrive at dusk, there are no lights and you seem afloat on a ghost river until suddenly, a meander of lamps appears, snaking up the sand to the lodge. Named after the French for madness, it is madness you discover when you have to step off the boat, hop-scotch planks and then jump onto a tractor to reach the lodge. If the experience leaves you mildly bewildered, there’s an ineffable allure about this place. Wooden cabins, like something Robinson Crusoe might have built, sit along the Mekong. The new spa occupies one such cabin, and it isn’t trying to be too sophisticated – the idea is imbibing the natural surroundings over massages using oils, created for the resort by the famous Artisans Laos. Drink up the ambiance from the foliage-filled riverside terrace, and if that’s not tranquil enough, embark on a peaceful sunset cruise with a private butler and the best canapés in Laos.

BOOK: Doubles from £205

North Laos

Namkat Yorla Pa

An outdoor activities paradise sprawling across acres of green, the resort’s design features are deeply steeped in the architectural and cultural identity of the historic Oudomaxy region, with a strong tribal element to the contemporary fittings and artwork. Different categories of accommodation include everything from camping tents, set in the pristine hilled and leafy surrounds of North Laos, to the ethno-chic pool villa. The villa, comprising a living room and bedroom, has a bathroom as big as the bedroom with a free-standing jacuzzi-tub. But the real show-stopper is the outdoors terrace with wood-panelled walkways, exotic gardened pavilions and the serenade of the gushing stream. The restaurant has outdoors tables set before vast stretches of greenery whilst the spa, also set on the stream, is the place for hot poultice tribal massages.

BOOK: Doubles from £115

BOOK IT

Trails of Indonesia crafts bespoke itineraries with 3-day packages for Luang Prabang, from £957/person based on a couple.

Bangkok Airways offers Bangkok-Luang Prabang return flights from £180 for transits through Bangkok with complimentary lounge access on all fares.

More Weekenders: Perth | Cape Town | Tokyo | Berlin | North Devon | Provence

The post The Most Luxurious Spas in Laos appeared first on What's On? By C&TH.

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Everything you need to know about the Country Homes & Interiors Christmas Show

It’s that time of year again, get ready to have your fill of mince pies and oodles of Christmas inspiration at the Country Homes & Interiors Christmas show.

Related: Christmas colour schemes to brighten up your home during festivities this season

Country Homes & Interiors is hosting its boutique Christmas fair in the picturesque grounds of Stonor Park between the 21st and 24th November. Set in purpose-built heated marquees on the front lawns of the grand house, the Country Homes and Interiors Christmas show promises to be an unmissable festive fair featuring lovely boutique and artisan brands.

This year the Country Homes & Interiors Christmas show will be bigger and better than ever with more than 100 stands. The fair will be host to home, gifting and lifestyle products for the magazines favourite country makers and brands.

It is the perfect one-stop-shop for all your Christmas shopping, from decorations to gifts.

This year as well as enjoying the fair, Country Homes & Interiors is offering guests the opportunity to book a house tour with their ticket. take a tour of the historic Stonor House, one of England’s oldest manor houses. The house will be decorated especially for the festive season by the Stonor family and lit by candlelight.

The Country Homes & Interiors team has also been given access to decorate the dining room within the house, so will be worth a peek.

Free christmas talks will be given on each day of the fair by experts where you will be able to glean the secrets of festive style in just 30 minutes. The talks will be packed with tips and inspiration.

When looking for gifts be sure to have a chat with the expert exhibitors who are all on hand to answer any questions. The Country Homes & Interiors Christmas fair will ensure everyone leaves with that elusive perfect gift or a unique piece that will bring a smile to their friend or family members face.

Stonor Park is located between the M4 and M40 on the B480 Henley-on-Thames to Watlington Road. SAT NAV RG9 6HF

Buy your tickets in advance and save £2 ichfevents.co.uk/countryhomeschristmas.

The offer is valid until Monday 18 November 2019

1-day ticket: Adult £10.00 (£12.00 on the door)

House & Show: Adult £15.00 (£17.00 on the door)

Get your tickets here.

Merry Christmas!

The post Everything you need to know about the Country Homes & Interiors Christmas Show appeared first on Ideal Home.

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New Houz Oslo

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Norwegian concept store Houz just located to a new store and the results are simply amazing. I love it when stores are designed as if they were a home where you can just walk in, have a look and casually buy the items on display.

Norwegian interior stylist Elisabeth Heier styled the pictures (photography by Ina K. Andersen ) and I’m in love with the mixture of grey, beige and dark woods. The eye catching dining table in front of the tone on tone wall shelving looks so pretty in combination with the Astep pendant. The kitchen is done by Ask og Eng and fits wonderfully in this space as well. I love the combination with the open shelving on the walls.

The post New Houz Oslo appeared first on COCO LAPINE DESIGN.

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Adam Handling To Open New Sustainable Restaurant on the King’s Road

Acclaimed chef Adam Handling has revealed he’ll be opening a new restaurant in Chelsea, promising a luxurious take on zero-waste dining.

A restaurant, champagne bar and sustainability hub, Ugly Butterfly is set to open on The King’s Road on 13 November. It’s a collaboration between Adam Handling, Cadogan, Quintessentially Foundation and The Felix Project, a London-based charity which collects surplus food and delivers it to local charities and primary schools to help feed vulnerable people.

Adam Handling by Tim Green

The menu will feature a selection of dishes made from the parts of ingredients that are usually discarded as waste, focusing particularly on the four most-wasted foods: bread, milk, eggs and bananas. Creations include deboned crispy fried chicken feet with caviar, banana bread and chicken butter, lobster shell soup, broccoli stalk caesar salad, and reformed doughnuts made with leftover bread and overripe fruit jam.

‘This is such an exciting collaboration,’ said Adam. ‘Across my restaurants and bars we have a strong commitment to achieving zero waste and in setting up Ugly Butterfly, we can help to move the sustainability agenda forward even further by bringing together the pioneers in sustainable food and drink, fashion, business, furnishings, technology, arts and crafts and giving them a home for some really interesting discussions.’

Frog by Adam Handling

Ugly Butterfly will be open from lunch time until the late evening from Wednesday to Sunday. It will also function as a hub for sustainability initiatives, hosting talks from the likes of the Harwood Arms co-owner Mike Robinson and Steve Bannatyne of The Wood Store.

‘1.9 million tonnes of avoidable food waste is generated by the UK food industry each year,’ said the Quintessentially Foundation’s chairman Ben Elliot. ‘At the same time, food poverty is a huge and growing problem. Almost four million children in the UK live in households that struggle to afford to buy enough fruit, vegetables, fish and other healthy foods.’

Ugly Butterfly will add to Adam’s ever-growing collection of sustainable-focused London ventures, which include Old Street coffee and beer shop Bean & Wheat and his flagship Covent Garden restaurant Frog by Adam Handing.

Adam Handling’s Guide To Sustainable Dining / The Zero-Waste Movement: Everything You Need To Know

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The Best Restaurants in London for Art Lovers

If you’re a devoted foodie who also loves indulging in the arts, you might be inspired to spend an evening combining the two. From exhibition-inspired menus at The Tate to David Shringley’s satirical works at Sketch, delight in London’s eclectic array of artsy restaurants with our guide to the best in town…

The Best Restaurants in London for Art Lovers

 

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The Aldi retro radio is back and almost identical to the iconic Roberts radio...only £150 cheaper

As fans of all things retro, we could barely contain our excitement when we spotted the retro Aldi radio back among the supermarket’s special buys.

Related: Create your dream fireplace on a budget with Aldi’s electric stove effect heater…only £49.99

Eagle-eyed Aldi fans with a fondness for retro interiors will have spotted that the Aldi radio is a dead ringer for the Roberts revival radio. However, with the most inexpensive Roberts revival radio with Bluetooth costing £179.00, Aldi’s version is a massive £150 cheaper!

The Aldi radio is surrounded in a leather-look material and is completed with brass detailing that gives it a gorgeous vintage look.

Aldi Radio

The radio comes in four designs, you can opt for a simple white or olive green. Or if you prefer something jazzier it is also available in a spot design or floral print.

Buy now: Reka DAB & FM Radio, £29.99, Aldi

If you were worried that the Aldi radio might be all style and no substance, then let us stop your right there. The DAB and FM radio has 20 presets and a 24-hour clock that will automatically update when the clocks change.

However, the star feature has to be the Bluetooth capability, that allows you to pair it up with your phone and use it as a speaker as well as a radio in your bedroom or kitchen. You get a retro look with all the modern technology.

As always with Aldi, their superpower lies in their amazing prices. Costing just £29.99 the Aldi Radio is an absolute steal. However, while the Aldi Radio and Roberts radio might look similar, there are a couple of differences that set the two apart.

Roberts radio

Buy now: Revival RD70, £179.99, Roberts

The Roberts radio will always be the ultimate retro radio. Made out of an acoustically-tuned wooden cabinet, the radio is then bound in luxurious leather cloth, available in a variety of colours to match every room colour scheme.

The radio is also kitted out with an alarm and colour display that is unbelievable easy to navigate.

However, if you plan to be bopping along to the radio in the bathroom perhaps consider opting for the Aldi radio. A steamy bathroom is not the ideal environment for the luxurious leather cloth of a Roberts radio as I sadly found out with my beloved pink Roberts radio.

The Aldi radio went on sale this week and is already proving incredibly popular.

Related: The Aldi kitchen trolley almost identical to one at John Lewis – £100 cheaper

So if you are keen to get your mitts on the bargain retro radio you better be quick as we predict another sellout.

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