Sponsored post | Inspired Summer Shopping

Whether laying on food for friends, looking to entertain little ones, or if you’re just after a treat, here are some brilliant buys

Wholesome Bowls by Melissa Delport

If you’re after a deliciously simple collection of one-

dish recipes that use only the freshest whole foods to build flavour, comfort and nourishment, then Wholesome Bowls by Melissa Delport (Nourish) offers a wide selection of dishes designed to fit every lifestyle. After some summer cooking inspiration? Try Turkish Eggs with Spicy Sesame Drizzle for brunch, a gooey Balsamic Fig and Goat’s Cheese Bowl for lunch, or a vibrant Chicken Fajita Bowl for dinner. Wholesome Bowls (rrp £20) is available from all good book retailers . nourishbooks.com

Potter & Mooch

Jewellery lovers will be inspired by the beautiful selection of climber earrings – aka Ear Wings – on offer at Potter & Mooch. Designed for a single piercing with a small bar that runs up the back of the lobe, each pair is handmade in England from either sterling silver, 14ct rose or yellow gold-filled wires. They’re also hypo-allergenic and nickel-free. Starting at £24 per pair, readers of The Simple Things can get 15% off all purchases by using the code TSTFIFTEEN at checkout. Offer ends 30 August 2023. Mail order tel: 01903 331744. potterandmooch.co.uk

Valiant

Get ready for an unforgettable summer with Valiant’s Portable Folding BBQ. This sleek, compact and sustainable grill is easy to clean and is designed for adventure – whether it’s a beach picnic or a camping trip, it can reliably cater for up to six people. Readers of The Simple Things can get 15% off all purchases, including other summer essentials such as an outdoor rug, a camping kettle, and the handy BBQ multi-tool, by using code BBQ15 at checkout. Offer ends 01 September 2023. simplyvaliant.co.uk

Voxblock

Voxblock is the screen-free audiobook player for children aged 3-12. With no need for WiFi, downloads or set-up, the audiobooks slot into the lightweight and portable player, and there’s a growing library of over 150 titles to choose from. Voted Best Kids’ Audio Player for Ease of Use by both The Independent and The Evening Standard, readers of The Simple Things can get 10% off a Starter Pack, which includes a player, three books and a protective bumper (rrp £59.99, £54 with code). Use code SIMPLETHINGS at checkout. Offer ends 10 September 2023. voxblock.co.uk

Sponsored Post | Blooming Good for Business

In the latest of our ‘Hut For All Seasons’ series, we meet one business owner, for whom Blackdown’s collection of shepherd huts helped to turn her dreams into reality

Dreams are important – they’re often the catalyst for life-changing plans. This was the case for Chloe Dennis of In Bloom Beauty. When she was looking to expand her business, back in 2016, she dreamt of relocating her salon to a shepherd hut overlooking the lake on her family’s farm in Okehampton, Devon.

As her dream took shape and she researched the idea further, she came across Blackdown Shepherd Huts and her dream started to become a reality.

Following a visit to Blackdown’s display garden in Ilminster, Somerset, Chloe discovered the Tasker self-build hut, which was the ideal solution for her business. It offered all the quality of a Blackdown build, but in a kit form that Chloe and her family could construct, safe in the knowledge that the Blackdown support team were on hand to answer any questions.

Order placed, Chloe began to build on her dreams, planning a space that her clients would find relaxing while enjoying their treatments. In Bloom Beauty opened in its new setting in June 2017 and proved an immediate hit. Chloe’s clients loved the stylish salon with glazed double doors that opened out onto beautiful lake views.

Fast forward a successful few years and Chloe’s dreams and ambitions were once again starting to gather pace, so when she saw the Blackdown Brace double hut, she knew that it was the logical next step for her growing business.

She and her family set to work building the new acquisition and the bigger and better In Bloom Beauty salon opened earlier this year. Chloe’s keen eye for style and detail has resulted in a beautiful space that she not only adores working in, but her clients love to visit. We wonder where Chloe’s dreams will take her to next.

Follow at inbloombeauty.co.uk, and on Instagram: @inbloombeautyy. For more information and inspiration, visit blackdownshepherdhuts.co.uk or follow on Instagram: @blackdownshepherdhuts.

Sponsored Post | Meet the owner of Gild Lane

Jenifer Dapper, the creative force behind Guild Lane, gives us the low-down on the paint brand’s colourful plans

Hi Jenifer, so tell us a little bit about Guild Lane

My husband and I acquired the company in 2016. I have a background in art, so I was particularly drawn to the premium enamel paints – as were countless scale modellers across the country. As an artist, I’ve always been on the lookout for really good metallic paints, so our first project was to create a line of our own.

Tell us more…

Our paint production team used groundbreaking technologies to create GILD – a range of six exquisite metallic paints. The launch of GILD also officially marked the company’s rebranding as Guild Lane.

You’re clearly passionate about the industry

Absolutely. In fact, after the success of GILD, we introduced our latest range last year, called Jubilee, and we’ve seen sales go from strength to strength ever since. Jubilee is a vibrant palette of 29 colours derived from historic hues, sourced from the British Colour Council. Each shade has its own story, which I believe adds a real depth to every project that they’re used on.

They must have taken quite some research

They did. While curating the line, I was lucky enough to work alongside the renowned colour historian Patrick Baty, who wrote The Anatomy of Colour. We also got hold of some of the British Colour Council first edition colour books, dating back to the 1930s.

We imagine the Jubilee paints are hugely popular

They really are – from furniture designers and artists to DIY enthusiasts, crafters and scale modellers, the paints’ exceptional coverage, durability and ease of use have made them the ideal go-to for their projects. Unlike chalk paints, the Jubilee range is a one-step solution which doesn’t need priming or waxing and has its own sealant. It’s also eco-friendly and is certified safe for children’s furniture and toys, for added peace of mind.

It’s great that you have such a strong eco-stance

We’re incredibly conscious of our environmental responsibility. In fact, all of our paints are manufactured in the UK, using sustainable manufacturing practices.

And in your line of work, you must come across some inspirational makers

Oh yes – we made our debut on Hobby Maker TV earlier this year, which has only strengthened our presence in the crafting and hobbyist community. Through this, we’ve met some amazing individuals who share our love for creativity and craftsmanship. We really value their feedback as it not only helps us to improve product development, but also fosters collaborations. I believe that if we provide makers with top-quality products it will encourage creativity and will inspire them to produce their own masterpieces and artistic narratives. Whether it’s starting from scratch, transforming cherished heirlooms, or adding flair to everyday items, compromising on quality should never be an option.

So, what’s next for Guild Lane?

Onwards and upwards! We’re looking to expand our network of over 100 stockists, as well as working on some very exciting collaborations. We also have some fantastic new product lines sets to launch later this year, so keep your eyes peeled. Guild Lane’s future is bright.

Sponsored post | Wild Cosmetics

Millions of bathroom products are thrown away every year and the sustainable and natural alternatives out there don't cut it — until now. At Wild, we want to shake-up the throwaway culture of bathroom products with high-performing products made from natural ingredients that never compromise on convenience or efficacy.

So, if you’re looking to reduce your single-plastic use, switch to our aluminium deo case that will last you a lifetime. You can refill your case again and again with our bamboo pulp refills. Every time you refill your case, you’ll save 30 grams of plastic going to the landfill.

We’ve got 7 great smelling scents packed full of premium natural ingredients that stop the growth of odour-causing bacteria and keep your armpits smooth and moisturised. Wild is powered by plants, not aluminium-salts or parabens and sulphates and all our formulas are certified vegan and cruelty-free. We never test on animals, only smelly people! So, by switching to Wild you're letting go of aluminium salts, parabens, and chemicals you can’t pronounce and replacing them with natural ingredients to give you the freshest pits all day, every day. 

One of the most important missions at Wild is to get bathrooms going green and going reusable! There's so many places in the house where you can make small changes, but we think the bathroom has amazing potential. Alongside this, we want to keep our planet Wild. Every time you buy from us, you help grow the Wild forest thanks to our partnership with ONAMISSION. By planting more trees, we’re proud to be carbon negative and so far we’ve planted over 300,000 trees and counting!

For more info, visit wearewild.com or follow on Instagram: @wildrefill

The Simple Things readers can enjoy 20% off online orders by using the code SIMPLEWILD at checkout. Valid for new customers only & until 31 July 2021.

Sponsored Post | National School Sports Week

Join in to Play For Fun, Play For 60!

This year’s, National School Sports Week intends to empower children to unleash their potential through play and sport. From 19-25 June, the initiative, powered by Sports Direct, invites schools, families and organisations to embark on a journey of active participation and collective impact.

Research commissioned by the Youth Sport Trust reveals a significant underestimate among parents regarding the recommended levels of daily physical activity for children. While the UK Chief Medical Officer recommends 60 minutes of elevated heart rate activity for children aged 5 to 18 each day, many parents believe merely 30 minutes is enough. This discrepancy highlights the urgent need to raise awareness and inspire children to lead active lives.

Amidst a prevailing wellbeing crisis among young people, studies conducted by Sport England demonstrate that less than half of all children (47%) meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily activity a day, with nearly one third (30%) falling below the 30-minute mark. These statistics underscore the crucial importance of fostering a culture of physical activity and prioritising the wellbeing of children.

National School Sports Week hopes to make a change by amplifying the benefits of play, sport and physical education. By making a #PledgeToPlay for 60 minutes every day during the campaign, schools, families and organisations can make a tangible difference in children's lives. Once you’ve pledged, you’ll be given access to a range of supporting materials and resources to help you achieve your active minutes with your children. Our resources are tailored to suit all age ranges, with separate resources to support schools and families.”

Joining the movement is simple. Visit www.youthsporttrust.org/join-us/nssw to learn more about National School Sports Week and how you can actively contribute. By taking part you become an advocate for change, encouraging children to embrace an active lifestyle, both inside and outside the classroom.

Together, we can ensure that play and sport become an integral part of every child's life. National School Sports Week is an inspiring call to action, inviting the nation to champion the wellbeing, development and happiness of our future generation.

For disabled young people, the Chief Medical Officers’ recommendation is for 20 minutes of physical activity every day and strength and balance activity 3 times a week. You can find out more about the guidelines for disabled young people here.

Sponsored post | Soak in the Tranquility

Bring simplistic beauty into your outdoor space this summer with the Hikki Bohemen wood-fired hot tub from Bushgear

With longer summer evenings on the horizon, many of us are embracing al fresco living and reconnecting with our outdoor spaces, creating a serene environment in which to relax and escape the hubbub of daily life. We all know the importance of taking time to pause and reset, and how spending time in the open air can soothe even the most frazzled of souls.

So when it comes to unwinding, what could be more relaxing than an outdoor bath? Submerse yourself and soak away life’s stresses. Being virtually silent, wood-fired baths are crafted for peace and tranquillity, creating harmony with nature. No sound pollution here, meaning it’s kinder to both the environment and your neighbours!

Swedish Design

Hikki’s original design combines a saltwater resistant aluminium body with a solid oak frame and interior, making the Bohemen as durable as it is beautiful. Lightweight and easily manoeuvrable, this tub works in locations that are unsuitable for more traditional hot tubs – plus it can be stored away when not in use, allowing you to make the most of your space.

Its simplistic design means that it’s incredibly straightforward to set up, with no need for chemicals or electricity. Using kiln-dried wood to fuel the stove means that your environmental impact is low, too, with the Bohemen being much more sustainable than its counterparts. You can even recycle the water on your veg patch afterwards.

The Hikki Bohemen is available from Bushgear – an independent online retailer specialising in skilfully-crafted products designed with outdoor living in mind. So linger a little longer and start making plans to jump into summer with both feet.

For more information and further inspiration, visit bushgear.co.uk or call 01795 534343.

Sponsored post | Rhino Greenhouses Direct

“‘Our core values are still the same as they were on day one: strength, durability, style and community’”

— Andrew White, Rhino Greenhouse Direct

Andrew White, Head of Sales & Marketing at Rhino Greenhouses Direct, tells us why a greenhouse isn’t just for sowing season…

Tell us a bit about Rhino

Rhino was established back in 1999 after the founders grew frustrated at what the market had to offer. They knew that they could come up with a greenhouse made from the highest quality materials, that wouldn’t succumb to weather damage or wear and tear within the first few years.

I think we can see the inspiration behind the name

Yes, the founders take conservation seriously, and were inspired to name the brand after one of the strongest, most resilient creatures on the planet.

So, after almost a quarter of a century, how have things changed?

Well, we’re a little bigger now, with more staff, but our core values are still the same as they were on day one: strength, durability, style and community. We’re also proud to be British. Rather than moving production overseas, we invested in a brand-new, purpose-built building at our base in East Harling, Norfolk – just across the yard from where it all started.

Remaining part of the community is clearly important

It really is. Staying in the UK means we’re able to support other local businesses and also keep an eye on all the materials being used, ensuring the quality we’re so proud of. However, the Rhino community stretches far further than just our little corner of Norfolk.

Tell us more…

Everyone who buys a Rhino greenhouse becomes part of the family. Our customers take us with them on their greenhouse journey, sharing photos, tips and progress on social media and the Rhino forum – and we’re not just talking photos of successful tomato crops, either. In recent years, we’ve seen a move from greenhouses being purely functional to being part of an overall lifestyle. They can obviously provide a quiet space – somewhere to enjoy a peaceful cuppa and a moment of calm – but we’ve also seen them used as a venue for intimate dinner parties under the stars, home gyms, cosy living spaces, yoga studios and even as pop-up shops. Our loyal customers continue to inspire us, and we must inspire them too, as we’ve been voted Britain’s Best Loved Greenhouse for four consecutive years now.

Wow, what an accolade!

It’s a huge honour! It’s stuff like that and the fact that we’re still British made that keeps us motivated.

So, where can we see a Rhino greenhouse?

You might already have seen one as part of your Friday night viewing. Our beautiful Rhino Premium in Silver Sage often makes an appearance in Carol Klein’s segment on Gardener’s World, and on her own Channel 5 show, Gardening with Carol Klein. We’ll also be taking a selection of our greenhouses on tour during show season – we’d love people to pop over and say hello.

And what seeds are being sown for the coming year?

Working on winning that fifth Best Loved Greenhouse award, of course! There are some exciting new products and projects in the pipeline, too – including a very special appearance at a certain prestigious event… although our lips are sealed for the moment. We’ve never been one to rest on our laurels and we’ll continue to strive to be the very best that we can be, but 2023 is set to be the year of the Rhino.

For more information on Rhino, visit rhinogreenhouses.co.uk or follow on Instagram: @rhinogreenhouses.

Sponsored post | The Best Choice for Your Best Friend

We’re proud to be a nation of dog lovers, with approximately 13 million pet dogs in the UK. As well as being perfect companions, they make it easier to appreciate the simple things in life, whether that’s a long walk in the great outdoors or an afternoon snooze on the sofa.

Every single dog has their own unique needs, tastes, and quirks – that’s part of the reason we love them so much. Tails.com celebrates this diversity, with their mission to give every dog the precise nutrition they need to thrive, wherever life leads them. Changing the world of pet food for good, tails.com is delivering millions of meals each month!

Simply answer a few questions about your dog’s breed, age and lifestyle, and tails.com will create a tailor-made kibble blend just for them, using high-quality ingredients that your dog will love. You can choose to add wet food, treats and chews, and there’s even a free scoop to help with portion control – and it’s all delivered straight to your door in one handy box.

Each nutritionally complete blend contains tailored ingredients like salmon oil for shiny coats, yucca for healthy poos and glucosamine for joint support. No added sugars or preservatives here, just a whole lot of flavour with delicious high-quality proteins. Everything your dog needs to stay healthy, inside and out. And because dogs’ needs change as they age, their blend will automatically change to support every life stage.

The boxes are delivered monthly, so you’ll never run short, and a fully flexible subscription means you can pause or cancel your deliveries whenever you want. Even the cost is tailored, with subscription prices depending on the size of your dog.

Reader discount

Everything your dog needs to thrive and a flexible subscription that works with you. Sign up to tails.com today and, as an exclusive offer, you can enjoy 80% OFF your first month!

Sponsored Post | Gilding with Guild Lane

There is something special about gilding that has been admired and prized by cultures around the world for millennia. The bright illumination of metallic finishes elevates the beauty of an object and gives the perception of elegance, sophistication and importance.

Today, gilding is still a specialist trade that requires careful preparation, precise application, and attention to detail. That’s why Guild Lane has developed a range of paints to make adding metallic finishes easy and economical with stunning results, so you can do it yourself at home.

GILD is a remarkable range of metallic enamel paints that have excellent coverage, eye-catching luminosity, and superb depth of colour. In a one-step application that leaves a lustrous, tarnish-free finish, GILD is a wonderful alternative to traditional gilding. Formulated with the finest metallic pigments and locally manufactured with the most advanced paint technologies, GILD is available in six innovative water-based enamels, and one oil-based chrome. All have superior self-levelling properties and are suitable for primarily non-porous surfaces including glass, metals, ceramics, plastics, leather, sealed wood and other hard surfaces.

The hardwearing GILD acrylics have a semi-viscous texture that is available in six radiant shades. GILD Silver is cool and bright with shimmering white highlights and pale grey shadows that resemble highly polished silver metal. Warm and inviting with pinkish-orange undertones, GILD Copper harnesses the vibrancy of freshly exposed copper metal. GILD Bronze is a dark blonde hue with intense, caramel highlights that resembles the natural surface of bronze metal before the patina. Pretty in pink, GILD Rose Gold is a sophisticated combination of gold, copper and silver with velvety-salmon undertones and brilliant blush highlights. Silky and neutral with sandy-beige undertones, GILD Champagne sits between gold and silver and glistens like soft champagne bubbles. GILD Gold is a rich, classic, vivid yellow colour with soft amber undertones that emulates pure solid gold. Made with an innovative pigment, GILD Gold is also suitable for fabrics and other porous surfaces.
The one and only oil-based enamel in the range, GILD Chrome is a remarkably reflective, superior metallic paint that resembles mercury. With its excellent fluidity and self-levelling characteristics, GILD Chrome produces an incredible mirror-like finish to non-porous objects.

So when finishing your next project, try adding some timeless beauty the easy way. Make your creations shine, with GILD.
For more information on Guild Lane paints, visit guildlane.com or follow on Instagram: @guildlane. Readers of The Simple Things can enjoy free shipping over £30 by using the code SPRING30 at checkout. Valid until 30 April 2023.

Sponsored Post | Work in Progress

Working from home just got a promotion, with Blackdown’s new super stylish workspace shepherd hut. All work and no play doesn’t apply here.

Life, it feels, is very much back to full pace, but with more of us working from home than ever before, the need for additional space has never been greater. While some find an escape in curling up with a good book and a cuppa, or pulling on wellies and heading for the hills, four-legged friend in tow; for others, it’s a physical place to retreat to that’s needed. Especially for those that set up office at the kitchen table – how many times has work been halted when it’s time to clear the table for dinner. And for the crafters out there, packing up can be a mammoth task, not only interrupting productivity, but creativity, too.

Somerset-based Blackdown Shepherd Huts knows this only too well, having helped many an artist and hobbyist to create their ideal studio space with its fully-built Retreat huts and self-build Tasker huts. A garden shepherd hut gives a degree of separation between workplace and home space, meaning you can stop the distractions of life getting in the way of work – and, more importantly, the distractions of work getting in the way of life. Inspired to create a full tech solution, Blackdown created its new workspace hut.

The Tech Spec

Creating a meridian between home and work, stepping into your workspace has never felt so good. A sit-stand desk faces the full-width window, providing great light for photographers, or somewhere to simply take advantage of views. To the rear, there’s purpose built shelving and file storage, as well as a coffee machine, hot water tap and drawer fridge to keep snacks and lunch fresh. The built-in seating area makes an informal meeting space, or just somewhere comfy to enjoy your mid-morning cuppa. Meanwhile, the workspace is also fully alarmed and the lights and music can be controlled by phone. This is creative thinking at its finest, and possibly the one workspace that you’ll be reluctant to leave… and the commute is pretty good, too.

For more information and inspiration, visit blackdownshepherdhuts.co.uk, or follow on Instagram: @blackdownshepherdhuts

Sponsored post | Spring Gift Guide

With Mother’s Day and Easter coming up, and no doubt a birthday or two, these are great
for giving (or simply keeping)

Voxblock

This screen-free audiobook player for children aged 3-12 was named ‘Best kids’ audio player 2022 for ease of use’ by The Independent. It has tangible blocks that snap into place, and children can listen through the speaker or headphones. There’s no need for WiFi or apps, and the battery offers 14 hours’ playtime.

The growing library of more than 120 titles ranges from classics to the latest stories. Visit the website to order a starter pack, which includes the player, three stories of your choice and a protective bumper for £53.99, when using the code THESIMPLETHINGS for 10% off (offer ends 3 April 2023). Voxblock.co.uk

Friend in a box

This small business puts a lot of love and care into its pretty blue gift boxes, and gets regular feedback that receiving one is very special. Whether for a happy or sad occasion, the range of carefully curated treats and your words of celebration and support make a real difference. The letter, which can be as long as you wish, is printed on beautiful watermarked paper and makes a wonderful keepsake. Owner Jane also enjoys being asked to create bespoke boxes, so please do get in touch. Friendinabox.co.uk or email: jane@friendinabox.co.uk.

Knit + Wear

The luxury knitting box delivered straight to your door! Formed by a team with more than 15 years’ experience designing in the knitting and craft industry, Knit + Wear offers beautifully curated kits. There are new designs and colours to choose from each quarter, created in luxury Rowan Yarns.

From accessories to cardigans there is something for all abilities – the perfect treat for yourself or as a gift for a knitting friend. Save 25% by using the code SIMPLETHINGS25 at checkout (offer ends 31 May 2023). Knitandwear.co

Stuff & Co

Everything at Stuff & Co is well-made, ethically sourced and carefully chosen to bring style, comfort and simple pleasure into your life. From scented candles to double-door mirrors reclaimed from French farmhouses, it presents an ever-changing collection of homeware, fashion, curios and an array of unusual, irresistible stuff! For the full experience, visit the 16th-century store in Midhurst, West Sussex – the heart of the South Downs. Or shop online and save 25% using the code SIMPLETHINGS25 at checkout (ends 30 April 2023). Stuffandco.co.uk  

Sponsored post | Salzburg - the best of two worlds

Tradition meets zeitgeist in this small Austrian city with big cultural cachet and
breathtaking scenery, too

As your thoughts shift towards longer days and getaways, now’s the time to turn that city break you’ve been dreaming of all winter into reality. And if the prospect of culture and concerts makes your heart sing, then grab your passport and book a short flight to Salzburg, a cosmopolitan destination to delight all your senses.

As you might expect from the birthplace of Mozart, Austria’s fourth-largest city is renowned for its musical heritage and outstanding live events. For more than 100 years, the Salzburg Festival has transformed the city into a cultural centre, with the old streets and squares becoming a stage for top-class orchestras and classic theatre.

Discover the city’s unique beauty for yourself with several themed walking tours, exploring the Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – as well as other off-the-beaten-track options. Or simply wander around the many charming shops, where old traditions meet new creativity, from bakeries to breweries. (Often dubbed the beer capital of Austria, with a legacy dating back more than 600 years, the city is currently home to an impressive 11 breweries!)

To really make the most of your stay, consider buying the Salzburg Card, which offers a range of benefits. These include one-time admission to the city’s tourist attractions and museums, discounts on cultural events and concerts, plus free travel on some modes of public transport. You can get a card for 24, 48 or 72 hours, and they’re now available digitally as well (meaning no more rummaging around in your wallet).

So book that break today and experience for yourself the true magic of Salzburg – where the whole city becomes a stage.

For further information, visit austria.info

Photography: A. Hechenberger; GÜnter Breitegger, all © Tourismus Salzburg GmbH

Sponsored post: Graz - a feast for the body and soul

This year combine culture with cuisine for a delectable city break you’ll never forget

With spring almost here – not to mention the Easter and May bank holidays – now’s a great time to book yourself that well-earned city break. And if it’s a gastronomic getaway you’re after, look no further than the foodie’s paradise of Graz, a destination dishing up culinary highlights and culture in a stunning historical setting.

Austria’s second-biggest city, located in the south, Graz is known as the Capital of Culinary Delights – and it isn’t hard to see why. Partner restaurants serve high-quality seasonal fare from the region, washed down with the finest Styrian beer, wine and soft drinks.

You can also potter around the farmers’ markets, picking up a wide range of foods direct from the producer. From fresh fruit and veg to homemade bread and local specialities, you’ll find something here to whet every appetite. When you’ve finally managed to choose from the many temptations on offer, you can tuck in alfresco at one of the charming picnic spots.

Another of the city’s star attractions is the Long Table of Graz (pictured above), where the historic centre transforms into an open-air restaurant for around 750 guests. Imagine feasting on a five-course meal paired with wines beneath the sky, while musical entertainment stirs your senses. (The next event is expected to take place in 2024.)

But it’s not just amazing food on the menu: Graz also serves up a smorgasbord of cultural treasures. It’s a city with many different faces: the historic centre and Eggenberg Palace (above left) have been granted UNESCO World Heritage status, yet it’s also a hub for young and vibrant art. This is a place that cherishes tradition, such as dirndl and lederhosen clothing, but also encourages new things to grow.

So if you’re searching for a deliciously different city break this year, why not discover the many charms of Graz for yourself? It truly is an enchanting city to fall in love with.

For further information, visit austria.info.

Photography: Harry Schiffer, Graz Tourismus Werner Krug

Sponsored post | Top six campsites for grown-ups

Camping is a fantastic way to escape the bustle of everyday life, but peace and serenity aren’t always guaranteed. Here are a few adult-only campsites, that welcome caravans and motorhomes up and down the country, selected by Insure My.

Our top six adult only picks

1. Colemere Caravan Park , Shropshire

A beautiful campsite nestled beside Colemere Lake; this is the perfect place to come for tranquillity. The woods and fields are full of wildlife and you may even see otters swimming in the lake.

The site itself is dog- and BBQ-friendly, and has an indoor social space with sofas, a long table and kitted-out kitchen for guests to use. To add a touch of luxury to your getaway, you can hire a wood-fired hot tub with lilypond views for the ultimate peaceful retreat.

2. Parkland Caravan and Camping Site, South Devon

For the eco-conscious motorhomer or caravanner, this campsite has a strong focus on sustainability, with recycling points, energy-saving lights and solar-heated hot water. There’s also a disabled access wet room and a well-stocked shop onsite selling fresh local produce as well as the usual essentials, so you can feast on the finest Devon has to offer.

Parkland is close to the idyllic beaches of south Devon, attracting keen walkers, swimmers and surfers all year round. From nearby Bigbury-on-Sea at low tide, you can reach Burgh Island, the inspiration for Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None.

3. Barley Meadow Touring Park , Devon

Discover Dartmoor from your doorstep at this campsite – bring your bikes to hit mountain trails or set out on foot into the wild hills. The nearest pub is a mere mile away, with plenty more not much further.

This campsite has its own small information centre and a shop, as well as an off-leash dog area for your dog to run off any excess energy. Other than the odd over-enthusiastic pooch, this site is calm and peaceful, making it a great destination for active and laid-back visitors alike.

4.  The Paddocks Caravan and Camping, Gwynedd

If you want to explore North Wales, The Paddocks, a small but well-connected campsite, is the perfect base. Raised fires and BBQs are permitted and there’s even a fridge and freezer for guests, as well as bathroom and washing up facilities. Local bus routes are within easy reach, the beach is just a five-minute drive away and, most importantly perhaps, the pub isn’t far.

For hikers and history buffs, Snowdonia National Park and Caernarfon, home to a spectacular castle, are a short drive away and the long, once smuggler-plagued sands of Pwllheli are a mere 10 minutes from your door.

5. Ashton Hall Caravan Park, Lancashire

Located on the Ashton Hall Estate near Lancaster, this adult-only site boasts forest walks, fishing in the river Lune and an 11-hole golf course with sea views. You can wander along the estate’s footways or branch out to the foot and cycle paths that wind through the surrounding woods.

The Lune Estuary footpath and Lancashire Coastal Way are both on your doorstep. The nearby Forest of Bowland, a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers open stretches of moorland and lush green lowlands dotted with farms. If you prefer something more urban, Lancaster is less than six miles from the estate.

6. Zambuka Campsite, Dorset

This dog-friendly site on the Jurassic coast has great views to the sea and is only 10 minutes’ drive from the striking landmark Durdle Door. The Southwest Coast Path is yours to enjoy as well as fossil-hunting at Ringstead Bay or Chesil Beach, just up the coast.

Just be aware that there’s no hot water during the winter but the multiple local fish and chip shops five minutes’ drive away more than make up for it.

Protection for both the journey and destination

Sadly, camping kid-free doesn’t completely shield you from unwanted interruptions but specialist campervan or motorhome insurance can.  

With InsureMy, you can compare quotes from a panel of trusted specialist insurers in minutes and get the best deal at the lowest price – guaranteed. So, do the adult thing and get covered for accidental damage, theft and more, no matter where you are and who you’re with.

Sponsored post | Guide to Caravan Cooking

We all love an adventure and discovering new things. If you own a caravan or are thinking of owning one, then it can provide a wonderful way to scratch the adventure itch

One of the best things about holidaying in your caravan is having the freedom to go where you want, when you want, so the last thing you need is for mealtimes to restrict your adventures.

Eating out is great – but it can end up dictating where you go, and if you are away for a week or more, it can really add up

Keep in mind that to make sure you have peace of mind, it’s important to compare caravan insurance before you buy.

Caravan cooking tips

So, with all the above in mind, below are five top tips for cooking in your caravan.

1.      Planning

You don’t want to spoil your holiday stressing about what to cook each day, so plan ahead. Think about the meals you will have while away, and pack just the ingredients for those meals, don’t forget things like oil, Oxo cubes, butter, salt and pepper – the stuff that you have on the side at home but might not think of as an ingredient.

2.      Equipment

As well as bringing ingredients, you also need to make sure you have all the kitchen essentials to prepare them. For example, pans and a colander or strainer for pasta and rice, saucepans for cooking up sauces and frying pans or a wok if you want to do a stir fry. Ensure you have any utensils you will need – chopping boards, knives, a peeler, grater, a slotted spoon – you may either want to take scales and measuring jugs or you could measure everything out before if you are tight on space - and don’t forget can openers and bottle openers.

3.      Storage

Obviously, you need to make sure you have enough room to store everything, so if you’re short on fridge space, maybe think about meals that don’t require too many fresh ingredients, eg pasta with pesto , and stick to meals that don’t require too many pots and pans. It could be worth bringing a slow cooker and thinking of a few different meals you could do in that, which could save time, effort and space, or bringing your microwave from home if you don’t have one in your caravan.

You may also want to bring a few plastic tubs, or some clingfilm or kitchen foil in case you have any leftovers, or cook up a large batch that can be used again

4.      Keep it simple

Don’t try anything too complicated. No one wants to be slaving away in a little caravan kitchen so, the quicker and simpler the recipe, the better – and if you can prepare anything before you go, you’ll be grateful you did.

5.      Barbecues

Having a nice, easy barbecue meal when staying at a caravan park is one of the easiest ways to cook and, given you can cook on a barbecue for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is an essential for most caravanners. There are lots of barbecue options -  gas, electric, disposable or good old-fashioned charcoal – whichever you use, don’t forget the fuel! Many caravan sites have permanent barbecues set up already, or gas hook-ups you can use – so check before you go, and of course, make sure you are allowed to barbecue before you light up.

What to cook

So, we’ve looked at some tips on how to cook in a caravan, now let’s take a look at what to cook with five easy caravan meals:

1.      Salad

The easiest meal to ‘cook’ in a caravan is salad. You can bring all the ingredients you need, and ‘beef’ it up a bit with some cheese or cold meat and bread so it is more like a ploughman’s, or maybe whip up an omelette or frittata on the hob to have with it.

2.      Pesto pasta

One of the easiest meals in the world - and tasty to boot – is pesto pasta. Just bring dried pasta and a jar of pesto. Cook up the pasta, stir in the pesto, done! You can always add chicken or prawns or spring veg into the pasta if you want to pad it out a bit.

3.      Slow cooker chilli

If you bring your slow cooker, a chilli is a very simple thing to prepare: beef or Quorn mince, kidney beans, tinned tomatoes, chilli powder and paprika. If you’re doing the meat version, fry off the meat first, then chuck in all the other ingredients and leave it for a few hours. If you’re vegetarian, put the tomatoes, beans, chilli and paprika in, leave it for a few hours, then stir in the frozen Quorn about half an hour before you need to eat. Cook up some rice and you’re all done.

4.      Hotdogs and burgers

Bring sausages and burgers from home, or buy some when you are out and about, and either fry on the hob, do them in the oven or cook them on the barbecue. Then, all you need to complete your meal are some bread rolls and a bit of salad - don’t forget the ketchup, mustard or brown sauce.

5.      Jacket potatoes

If you have a microwave for your caravan, jacket potatoes can be a quick, easy, no fuss meal with very little preparation and hardly any washing up. Just serve with your favourite topping – cheese and baked beans is probably the easiest, but you could always keep a bit of the chilli you had earlier in the week and make two meals out of one.

These are just a few ideas. There are loads of things you can do, especially if you bring a slow cooker, which gives you lots of options, from curries and stews to casseroles and ratatouille to name just a few. It’s also a good idea to bring some back-ups like tins of soup, beans on toast etc. Don’t forget classic staples like bread, cheese, cereal etc, which can be used to whip up a quick meal any time of day.

Sponsored post | Caring Coffee Culture

Enjoy flavours of the world with Volcano Coffee Works’ ethically traded coffee and a discount on its roaster’s choice subscription

Coffee – it wakes us up and kickstarts our day, but what if that warming cup of coffee could taste all the more sweeter, knowing that from bean to cup it has positively impacted others?

Volcano Coffee Works was established in South London in 2010 with a mission to introduce the World to better coffee – better tasting; better for the environment; and moreover, better for the people who grow it. With ethical trading principles at the core, Volcano Coffee Works strives to help others along every step of the supply chain, from direct initiatives at origin to helping local communities here in the UK. It’s also proud to be both B Corp certified and carbon neutral.

Volcano believes in giving everyone a fair shot, too. Whether it’s the farmers growing the beans or the team working in the roastery, everyone is valued for their ability to enact positive change.

Travel the world from your cup

Quality and taste is also top of Volcano’s agenda. Its coffee is hand roasted in small batches, then dispatched the following day to guarantee freshness and flavour.

For a taster of what’s on offer, there’s the Roaster’s Choice Coffee Subscription, described as a coffee tour guide. Every month, Nick Mabey – Head of Sourcing and also UK Roasting Champion 2018 – presents an exciting new coffee from around the world. Each coffee is hand roasted to its particular sweet spot that releases delicious and exotic flavours for you to enjoy in your own home. The Roaster’s Choice subscription has featured coffees from Honduras, Nicaragua, Uganda, Guatemala and Peru over the past year. Available in 500g or 1kg bags of beans or ground coffee, each month you’ll receive a coffee alongside a postcard with tasting notes and brewing tips.

Did you know… 5 million cups of Volcano Coffee are served every year in the best independent cafes and restaurants?

Treat yourself to Volcano

Volcano is offering 50% off your first month of the Roaster’s Choice subscription, which provides free delivery on a date selected by you each month. Simply enter the code TRYVOLCANO at checkout. For more info and to buy Volcano’s speciality blends, visit volcanocoffeeworks.com or follow on Instagram: @volcanocoffeeworks.

Sponsored post | Pause for a Moment

A monthly subscription box, packed with fun activities, will help you take some time out. And you’ll be supporting the charity Mind, too

How wonderful would it be if you could pause everything, take a deep breath, and give yourself a moment of calm every month? Well now you can – with Pause.

Pause is a subscription box that provides a monthly moment of mindfulness, creativity and calm, delivered straight to your door – and not only does it boost wellbeing, but it helps support Mind, the mental health charity, too. With a range of activities, each tailored to provide something fun and calming, Pause allows you to give back some time to yourself. Each box offers something unique, something you might not have tried before, and is designed to nurture your wellbeing through activities that help you reflect, relax and get creative. It helps you to find the time to acknowledge how you’re feeling, and to check in with yourself.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW

But wellbeing isn’t just about self-reflection. Your Pause box can also help you to learn a fun, new skill and encourage you to try new activities that perhaps you have never previously considered. These new skills, goals or challenges can have a positive impact on your self-esteem and wellbeing. Also, by making time to enjoy your Pause activities with family and friends, perhaps gifting a subscription or teaching loved ones your newfound skill, it can help you to feel more connected with others.

You can gift someone you love a moment of calm for themselves, or simply treat yourself – from just £7.50 a month, Mind will send you or a loved one 12 Pause boxes over the course of a year. We all want to give those that are closest to us a little time to help slow down and focus on themselves and a Pause subscription box encourages just that – time for reflection, for quiet and peace. Now isn’t that a gift?

FAR-REACHING BENEFITS

Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem. By subscribing to Pause, your regular donation will help Mind be there for everyone who needs support. All of your donation goes into Mind, so you can be sure that your money is making a real change and helping those who truly need it. Your donation can help fund Mind’s work in so many ways. It could help someone access lifesaving information through their booklets, website and helplines. Or help support someone through Side by Side, a 24/7 online community. It could also help Mind campaign for better mental health services. All donations help Mind continue their vital work. So pause, take a moment to yourself, and treat yourself or someone you love to a more mindful future. For further information and to subscribe, visit pauseformind.org.uk/simple.

Sponsored post | Vorarlberg - a Breath of Fresh Air

As the winter sports season gets underway, Austria’s Vorarlberg region offers something
for everyone

If the new year has ignited your sense of adventure, and the lure of snow is tempting you to book a well-deserved trip, then look no further than Vorarlberg for a destination that truly offers something for everyone. Set in Austria’s westernmost corner, bordering Switzerland, Germany and Liechtenstein, the stunning backdrop of Vorarlberg offers amazing ski resorts, charming villages and an unrivalled selection of gastronomic treats that will truly make it a holiday to remember.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro on skis, Vorarlberg caters for all abilities with both gentle and demanding runs. There are plenty of ski schools and guides to nurture your talents, too. And thanks to its location on the northern rim of the Alps – some two-thirds of the region is situated more than 1,000m above sea level, while many resorts reach an altitude of 2,400m – there’s always plenty of fresh, natural snow. Stunningly picturesque, many will attest that taking the cable car to the summit is every bit as enjoyable as the journey back down on skis.

However, what really makes Vorarlberg so appealing is its regional ski pass networks, free ski buses and short distances between each resort. So every day you can explore and experience something new, all the while surrounded by pretty villages dotted with traditional wooden architecture and state-of-the-art contemporary designs.

No matter if skiing isn’t your cup of tea, though – the region offers a host of alternative activities, including snowshoe rambling, cross-country skiing and winter hiking, to take in the spectacular scenery and breathe deep the invigorating, crisp air. There are plenty of tours available including magical torch-lit evening hikes in Lech Zürs, night-time tobogganing in the Montafon valley, a snowshoe hike with accompanying gourmet picnic in Kleinwalsertal, or you could discover the vibrant cultural life in the towns of Bregenz, Dornbirn, Hohenems, Feldkirch and Bludenz.

After so much action, it’s inevitable that there will be hungry tummies in need of refuelling and there’s any number of eateries to explore, all with a side helping of scenic views. For an authentic taste of winter sports life, head to Trittkopf BBQ Station in Zürs – a converted mountain station that still boasts the old red cable car pulleys and offers a delicious selection of barbecued meats. Frööd, in Brand, is a carbon neutral restaurant that effortlessly combines contemporary design with energy efficiency and prides itself on serving regionally-sourced ingredients, while the Baumgarten Panorama Restaurant, in Bezau, really is something quite special with views extending down to Lake Constance.

Whether swooshing through fresh powder or simply enjoying the après-ski, a trip to Vorarlberg is sure to capture your heart and will leave you feeling revived, recharged, and raring to return.

For more information, visit austria.info or vorarlberg.travel/en

Sponsored Post | Pause for a Moment

A monthly subscription box packed with fun activities will help you take some time out, and you’ll be supporting the charity Mind as well

How wonderful would it be if you could pause everything, take a deep breath, and give yourself a moment of calm every month? Well now you can – with Pause.

Pause is a subscription box that provides a monthly moment of mindfulness, creativity and calm, delivered straight to your door – and not only does it boost wellbeing, but it helps support Mind, the mental health charity, too.

With a range of activities, each tailored to provide something fun and calming, Pause allows you to give back some time to yourself. Each box offers something unique, something you might not have tried before, and is designed to nurture your wellbeing through activities that help you reflect, relax and get creative. It helps you to find the time to acknowledge how you’re feeling, and to check in with yourself.

Learn something new

But wellbeing isn’t just about self-reflection. Your Pause box can also help you to learn a fun, new skill and encourage you to try new activities that perhaps you have never previously considered. These new skills, goals or challenges can have a positive impact on your self-esteem and wellbeing. Also, by making time to enjoy your Pause activities with family and friends, perhaps gifting a subscription or teaching loved ones your newfound skill, it can help you to feel more connected with others.

You can gift someone you love a moment of calm for themselves, or simply treat yourself – from just £7.50 a month, Mind will send you or a loved one 12 Pause boxes over the course of a year. We all want to give those that are closest to us a little time to help slow down and focus on themselves and a Pause subscription box encourages just that – time for reflection, for quiet and peace. Now isn’t that a gift?

Far-reaching benefits

Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem. By subscribing to Pause, your regular donation will help Mind be there for everyone who needs support.

All of your donation goes into Mind, so you can be sure that your money is making a real change and helping those who truly need it.

Your donation can help fund Mind’s work in so many ways. It could help someone access lifesaving information through their booklets, website and helplines. Or help support someone through Side by Side, a 24/7 online community. It could also help Mind campaign for better mental health services.

All donations help Mind continue their vital work. So pause, take a moment to yourself, and treat yourself or someone you love to a more mindful future.

For further information and to subscribe, visit pauseformind.org.uk/simple.

Sponsored post | Follow the trail to Wales

Winter is the ideal time to visit Wales and take in its unspoilt beauty, jaw-dropping wildlife and delicious local produce

The new year is here and with it, fresh opportunities to explore somewhere different or learn a new skill. If you’re raring to visit a destination that offers a rich mix of nature, culture, food and heritage, then look no further than Wales for an invigorating break that will heighten the senses.

It’s easy to feel that the long nights and grey days may never give way to sunnier climes, however, now is the ideal time to plan a trip to break up the monotony of winter. Whether it’s a weekend visit or a little longer to allow yourself more time to explore, Wales’ mix of dramatic landscapes and diverse culture is sure to open you up to new adventures.

Wales appeals to those who love the great outdoors and is home to three National Parks and five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The adventurous will be in their element on a craggy mountainside, perhaps ascending Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) or Pen y Fan. The views will be worth the climb, but many routes won’t be for the faint of heart. For a more gentle amble, pull on your walking boots and head for one of Wales’ well-worn trails, maybe a stint along the Wales Coast Path for breathtaking sea views, or inland to take in the sights of ancient standing stones or ruined castles and to acquaint yourself with local folklore, myths and legend. 2023 is Wales’ Year of Trails, so whatever your ability or energy levels, there’s a route to suit and to guide you around the country’s beloved sights.

With spectacular scenery comes wonderful wildlife, so pack your binoculars. From the Wales Coast Path you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of dolphins – Cardigan Bay is a hotspot – or a grey seal bobbing playfully amidst the waves, particularly around the Pembrokeshire coast. Later in the year, on Skomer island, puffin colonies are a sight to behold, and twitchers will appreciate the red kites and ospreys to be found in Mid Wales.

Meanwhile, with large areas unspoilt by light pollution, budding astrologers will be in awe of Wales’ unrivalled network of International Dark Sky Reserves and Dark Sky Parks. Winter is the ideal time to wrap up warm, fill a Thermos, and embrace the long nights to gaze skywards.

After a day spent exploring, the promise of a good meal and a cosy night’s sleep will keep spirits raised. Head to a bustling market town or city and you’ll find an abundance of eateries proudly serving local produce, from inviting pubs with a welcoming fire to award-winning fine dining – you’ll want to extend your trip just to taste all that’s on offer. But one thing’s for certain, enjoying a taste of this beautiful land during the quieter months is sure to ignite a lifelong love affair with Wales.

Wonderful Wales

Three National Parks:

• Eryri (Snowdonia)
• The Pembrokeshire Coast
• The Brecon Beacons

Five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty:

• The Anglesey Coast
• The Gower Peninsula
• The Llŷn Peninsula
• The Clwydian Range and the Dee Valley
• The Wye Valley

For more information and inspiration, visit visitwales.com