Competition | Win a Cornish Holiday worth £500

Choose from 250 self-catering properties by Beach Retreats, each located alongside
Cornwall's finest beaches

With vibrant surf apartments to stylish family homes and large, luxurious coastal retreats, you are sure to find a property to suit you.

Start the day with an exhilarating sea dip with just the gulls for company, spend the day walking the breathtaking coastal paths and enjoy evenings watching the sun setting over the ocean. Relax and unwind in a beautiful coastal setting, with everything an easy walk from your chosen property.

Beach Retreats offers 250 self-catering properties across Cornwall, all located within easy walking distance of the finest beaches. Less time in the car means more time making the most of your precious time on the Cornish coast.

As a Cornish-owned, family-run businesses, the Beach Retreats team are beach experts and are on hand to ensure your holiday on the coast is one to remember.

To find out more and browse the holiday properties visit beachretreats.co.uk.

How to enter

To enter, simply click on the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 9 June 2025.

Q: What do all Beach Retreats properties have in common?

Terms & conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 9th June 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. The prize is a £500 voucher which can be used towards any available property on the Beach Retreats website. To use the voucher, you will need to contact Beach Retreats directly by phone. The voucher must be used by 30 December 2026. Beach Retreats booking terms and conditions apply (see website for details). If due to circumstances beyond their control, Beach Retreats is unable to provide the stated prize(s), they reserve the right to award a substitute prize of equal or greater value. The prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. Transport is not included. This prize must be booked by someone aged 18+. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules

Competition | Win £200 to spend at Gudrun Sjödén

We’ve teamed up with Swedish brand, Gudrun Sjödén, to give two lucky readers of The Simple Things the chance to win a wardrobe refresh

Summer is almost upon us and with it, a chance to refresh your wardrobe thanks to Gudrun Sjödén’s colourful summer offerings. Fusing artistic expressions with Nordic simplicity, Gudrun’s latest collections flirt with luscious nature from around the world and lets natural and recycled fibres shine through its different design chapters.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, then enter our competition for your chance to win one of two vouchers – worth £200 each – to spend at Gudrun Sjödén.

Featuring colours and textures inspired by travels along the silk route, this season’s collection focuses on natural fibres to create an airy silhouette in tactile linen and cotton. Meanwhile, these wardrobe staples will appeal to all in vibrant summery shades that conjure up earthy tones and sunset palettes.

However, stunning colours, prints and designs aside, the real beauty of Gudrun Sjödén pieces is their timelessness. Always designing responsibly for both people and the planet, the clothes are made to stand out, whatever the season. Their longevity and versatility makes them instant classics and pieces that can be worn, loved, and passed down from generation to generation. 

For more information and inspiration, visit gudrunsjoden.com or follow on Instagram at: @gudrunsjoden.ldn

How to enter

For your chance to win one of two Gudrun Sjödén vouchers, each worth £200, answer the question below by the closing date of 11 June 2025. 

Q: This season’s colours and textures by Gudrun are inspired by which trading route?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 11 June 2025. Two winners will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winners cannot transfer their prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at: icebergpress.co.uk/comprules. 

Competition | Win a Farm Stay worth over £700

Feather Down Farms is offering one lucky reader of The Simple Things the chance to win a three-night glamping stay on a farm

Step into nature and leave your worries behind with an immersive farm stay that will allow you to experience the magic of rural life. Ideal for families, let the kids experience freedom like no other as they meet friendly goats and sheep, while collecting fresh eggs each day from the chicken coop – all while you sit back and breathe in the fresh countryside air.

With 22 Feather Down Farm locations across the UK, there’s somewhere to suit all tastes, including National Parks, AONBs, and sites within a stone’s throw of a sandy beach, but what they all have in common is vast countryside and breathtaking views that prove a balm for the soul.

Tend to the hectic demands of daily life with a family-friendly farm stay and soak up the opportunity to recharge, revitalise and reawaken your inner child, surrounded by nature’s rich pickings.

Feather Down Farm’s glamping hideaways sleep up to 6, with cosy beds, a fully equipped kitchen, hot private showers and a spacious living area complete with a wood-burning stove. There’s no electricity or Wi-Fi in your home-from-home, so you’ll be free from digital distractions and able to reconnect to each other and nature.

If this sounds like a breath of fresh air, then enter our competition as The Simple Things has a three-night stay* up for grabs for one lucky reader, meaning you could soon be enjoying farm life while the kids collect the morning provisions. The only decision you’ll need to make is how you fancy your morning eggs…

For more info, visit featherdown.co.uk or follow at: @feather.down.farms

How to enter 

For the chance to win a three-night weekend stay at any of Feather Down Farm’s 22 UK locations, click the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 11 June 2025.

Q: How many Featherdown Farm locations are there across the UK?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 11 June 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. *Prize is a three-night weekend stay (Friday - Monday) at one of our 22 UK locations for up to 6 people. The canvas hideaway sleeps up to 5 adults and 1 child (under 12), and includes bedding, towels, starter pack, and wood for the wood-burner. Stay must be taken by 24 October 2025 and cannot be extended (excludes weekends 2 May, 23 May, and 22 August 2025). Individual farm dates may vary and dates are subject to availability. Prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash. Any additional costs and expenses incurred during the trip will be the responsibility of the prize winner. Feather Down Farm’s standard booking terms and conditions apply: featherdown.co.uk/terms-and-conditions. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at: icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win £500 to spend at One.World

Give your home a spring refresh with timeless classics designed to be cherished

Spring is the ideal time to breathe new life into your home, and this month’s competition gives you the opportunity to do just that with a £500 shopping spree at One.World up for grabs. Whether you’re drawn to reclaimed wood furniture, hand-finished ceramics, or rustic stoneware, One.World’s carefully curated range is designed to bring warmth, charm and effortless style to every home.

As a family-owned brand, One.World believes in creating pieces that tell a story – crafted with care, made to last, and designed to be lived with and loved. “One.World only sells products that we love and want in our own homes,” says Managing Director, Jason Bensohn – and that passion is woven into every design.

Sustainability is also at One.World’s core, using reclaimed materials, and crafting many of its products by hand. Not only that, but a tree is planted for every purchase, ensuring your home refresh is kinder to the planet, too.

Featuring natural, tactile textures and organic shapes, the One.World collection helps to create a space that feels lived-in, welcoming, and uniquely yours. So, regardless of whether you’re styling a cosy reading nook, elevating your dining space, or adding character with unique decorative pieces, One.World designs are made to evolve with you – embracing sticky fingers, muddy paws, and the beauty of everyday life.

With over 250 new lines added this season, there’s more to discover than ever before, plus speedy delivery, exceptional quality, and a Trustpilot rating of Excellent, shopping with One.World is effortless. From bestselling mirrors and statement wall art to elegant lighting, furniture, and home accessories starting from under £10, there’s something for every home and every budget, so enter now for your chance to win £500 to spend on pieces that you’ll cherish for years to come.

For more information and inspiration, visit one.world or follow on Instagram at: @onedotworld

How to enter 

For your chance to win £500 to spend at One.World, click on the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 8 May 2025. 

Q: How many new lines have been added this season?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 8 May 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win one of four Tulip Bistro Sets worth £239

We have Lazy Susan bistro sets up for grabs, meaning less time maintaining furniture and more time enjoying your garden

Spring is here and with it, the prospect of getting outdoors and enjoying fresh air, sunshine, and all that your outdoor space has to offer. For many, the arrival of warmer weather means laborious chores maintaining garden furniture ready for the year ahead. However, if you’d prefer to be sowing and potting rather than sanding and treating, then Lazy Susan garden furniture may be the answer.

After years of struggling to maintain his teak garden table, it became clear to Michael Scott that the long-term solution was not fighting a losing battle with wood, but using cast aluminium instead. After much searching, product testing and deliberation, Lazy Susan was born and now features timeless designs that are maintenance-free, rust-proof and can be left outside all year round.

The Alice Bistro set

From a charming circular four seater, through to a spacious table for twelve, Lazy Susan has something for everyone, and when you buy a set there are great discounts on extras, such as a coordinating bench or Bistro set for additional seating, as well as parasols and cushions in gorgeous tonal colours.

The Simple Things has teamed up with Lazy Susan to offer four lucky readers the chance to win a Tulip Bistro set in antique bronze, worth £239.95. These compact tables offer the ideal place to sit, relax and enjoy your morning cuppa in comfort.

For more information and inspiration, visit www.lazysusan.co.uk, or follow on Instagram at: @lazysusanfurniture

How to enter

For your chance to win one of four Tulip bistro sets, worth £239.95 each, enter our competition by clicking the button below and answering the following question by the closing date of 8 May 2025. 

Q: What material did Michael Scott use to create the Lazy Susan range?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 8 May 2025. Four winners will be selected at random from
all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winners cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a two-night stay in a themed vehicle

Win a one-of-a-kind stay worth £330 in the Lincolnshire countryside

The Layby Lincs offers adult-only, pet-friendly, themed vehicle accommodation on the southern edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB. It’s a short drive to amazing sandy beaches, nature reserves and bustling market towns.

Louise and Alex bought Mill Lane Farmhouse in August 2022 and then set about building their dream escape for those looking to stay somewhere truly memorable, all set around a wildlife pond in their back garden.

 If a comfy, cosy, country getaway with unusual accommodation appeals to you, then this is your chance to win a two-night stay in one of the five vehicles, worth £330.

With five individually themed vehicles, there is something to suit every taste. Will you choose the bold and bright 70s disco themed RV, Alabama (above)? Or are you looking for something a little more subdued, like the English country cottage style of the racehorse transporter, Gee Gee (below)?

Staying in one of the individually themed vehicles is closer to staying in a luxury holiday cottage than it is to camping. Each one has a king size bed with cotton linens, and sustainable duvets and pillows made from recycled cotton and feathers. There is air conditioning for both heating and cooling, as well as WiFi. Outside is a private deck with your own covered kitchen, (made with 95% recycled deck boards). There is no need to share facilities, you get your own private bathroom, with fluffy towels, robes and vegan, cruelty free toiletries. Each vehicle also has its own woodfired hot tub, which is perfect for stargazing, and a fire pit for toasting marshmallows.

The site is a boutique, adults only and pet friendly retreat, with an ethos focussed on repurposing, recycling and relaxing. The whole site, (including the couple’s home), is powered by their own large solar and battery system. Being situated in a rural setting they are very fortunate to have a host of wildlife pass through the site. You might even be lucky enough to see the breeding Barn Owls who have their box on the side of the barn. Alex and Louise look forward to hosting you and any furry, feathered or scaly friends you bring to stay.

How to enter

Please enter the competition by clicking the ‘Enter Now’ button below and answering the following question:

Q: In which year did Louise and Alex buy Mill Lane Farmhouse?

For more info please visit www.thelaybylincs.co.uk or visit their Instagram @thelaybylincs  

Terms & Conditions

The winner will stay at Layby Lincs for 2 nights and the stay is for 2 guests (plus a pet if you wish)
The competition closes at 11.59pm on 21 April 2025. One winner selected at random from all correct entries. The winner is responsible for transport to and from Layby Lincs. No more than 2 large dogs or 4 small dogs allowed per accomodation vehicle. If in doubt then please email info@thelaybylincs.co.uk prior to arrival and check. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap for cash. The winner may be required to participate in publicity. The stay is subject to availability. Dates and the vehicle you stay in will also be dependent on availability. Only one night in the hot tub is included, additional nights are £40 per night. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a Brother Sewing Machine worth £499

We are delighted to have teamed up with Brother to offer readers the chance to win this fabulous prize. Smart sewing made simple!

 No matter where you are in your sewing journey, the Innov-is A series has you covered. Easy to use and packed with features, allowing you to enjoy smooth sewing on all types of fabric, including stretchy jersey and thick denim.

The prize, worth £499

The Brother Innov-is A65 features 60 stitches, including six one-step buttonholes, ensuring you can always find the perfect stitch for any project. Its convenient features, such as an automatic thread cutter, advanced one-action needle threader, lockstitch button, quick-set bobbin, Start/Stop button, and adjustable speed control, make the Innov-is A65 easy to set up and a joy to sew with.

This sleek, compact, and sturdy sewing machine is lightweight and comes with a handy hard cover, making it perfect for those who love to sew on the go. Whether you're heading to a friend's house, attending university classes, or participating in busy sewing workshops, you can easily take your talent wherever you go.

 How to enter

For your chance to win a Brother sewing machine, please press the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 22 April 2025.
Q: How many one-step buttonholes does the Brother Inn-is A65 have?

Find your local Brother retailer here to see and try the Brother range

Terms & Conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 22 April 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. If a UK mainland address then Brother will post the machine out free of charge to the winner. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a Six-Month Subscription to Famileo

Many of us live far away from older relatives and it can be hard to meaningfully connect between visits, particularly if they’re not part of the family Whatsapp group.

Enter Famileo, a truly unique way of sharing your day-to-day, their way. Famileo automatically turns the whole family’s shared photos and messages into a personalised family magazine and posts it to your loved one, each month.

And it’s so easy to do. Once you have an account, simply download the app, invite each member of the family to do the same, and there you will find your own secure, private space in which to share photos and messages (very much like a family Whatsapp group).

What makes Famileo unique is that on your chosen date each month, your family feed is automatically formatted into a family magazine. A PDF copy is immediately available via your account, and up to a 16-page, colour, A4 magazine is printed and posted to your older relative.

 A French company, Famileo is now available in the UK and with over a quarter of a million older relatives already receiving their own monthly magazine, now is the perfect time to see for yourself the joy that regular family news, printed and posted to their doorstep, brings to older generations. Family news they can look forward to and keep going back to.

 So if you have an older loved one who is not tech-savvy, or who just prefers the tangible charm of print, then consider Famileo as a thoughtful way to share family news they can look forward to receiving each month. 

A Famileo subscription costs just £5.99 a month and allows an unlimited number of family members to join the account and a family magazine to be printed and posted anywhere (in the world), monthly. For more information and inspiration, please visit famileo.com or follow @famileo_uk

 How to enter

We have six-month subscriptions, worth £36 each (normally £5.99 a month), to give away to 5 lucky winners. To have a chance of winning, just click the button below by the closing date of 12 April 2025 and answer the follwing question…

Q: Up to how many colour pages are there in the monthly magazine?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 12 April 2025. Five winners will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at: icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a Weekend Stay in Whitstable worth £1,400

You could win a two-night break in Whitstable, a town loved for its oysters, sunsets, beach walks and indie shops 

Ask anyone who has been to Whitstable what they loved about their visit, and they will undoubtedly say the beach walks, local food and hospitality, independent shops and the incredible sunsets. Just an hour from London, on the north Kent coast, the charming town of Whitstable has become a year-round destination for food lovers, families and those seeking a little weekend escape to the seaside.

With longer days and lighter evenings upon us, there’s never been a better time to visit. If you’ve never visited or would love to return, then enter our competition to win a seaside escape thanks to Whitstable Holiday Homes. The prize is a two-night stay – worth up to £1,400 – at So Ho House, a stylish and spacious house in the heart of the town.

The house name is derived from the owner, Solange’s, initials and she has been the creative heart behind its beautiful interiors and furnishings. You and up to seven guests, plus pooch, can relax and catch up in the huge kitchen, dine al fresco in the garden, chill in one of the two lounges and enjoy a great night’s sleep in one of the four bedrooms. Located near the harbour and beach, it’s just a short stroll to the shops and amazing foodie places. To ensure you’re well looked after during your stay, Whitstable Holiday Homes’ owner Gail will be on hand to offer personal recommendations on how
to make the most of your visit.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic break, a family holiday, birthday celebration, or a dog-friendly stay, Whitstable Holiday Homes has over 25 charming properties to choose from, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Visit whitstableholidayhomes.co.uk for more information, or follow on Instagram: @whitstableholidayhomes. To see more information about So Ho House, visit whitstableholidayhomes.co.uk/so-ho-house.

How to enter

For your chance to win a two-night stay in So Ho House (for up to eight people and one dog), enter our competition by clicking the button below and answering the following question by the closing date of 9 April 2025.

Q: Whitstable is on the coast of which English county?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 9 April 2025. One winner selected at random from all correct entries. Prize must be taken before 31 March 2026 and excludes school and Bank Holidays. The winner is responsible for transport to and from So Ho House and will need to pay a Refundable Security Deposit of £300 prior to arrival to cover any loss or damage to the property. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap for cash. The winner may be required to participate in publicity. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win an Esse 1 stove worth £695

Combining style, environmental responsibility and over 170 years of experience, ESSE stoves are something to get fired up about

March can be a funny old month, and the weather is often reliably unreliable, as the adage suggests – in like a lion and out like a lamb. But despite spring sending snippets of brighter and warmer days, we know that once the sun goes down, the chill will return. So what could be more inviting after a day spent getting out and about or pottering in the garden than retreating inside to the warmth of an ESSE 1 stove.

Hand-built in Britain, ESSE stoves have been in production since 1854, and the small and mighty ESSE 1 model is a cosy classic. It can burn either wood or solid fuel and has an impressive 5kW output. Clean burning and efficient, it’s EcoDesign compliant and approved for burning wood in smoke control zones. Simple yet sophisticated, the cast iron ESSE 1 is easy to use and features adjustable feet, tertiary air supply, top or rear flue options, and a cooler-touch handle. Its compact design – 510mm (h) x 380mm (w) x 322mm (d) – also makes it a welcome addition to any home.

If you’re warming to the idea, then we have one ESSE 1*, worth £695, up for grabs. Simply enter our competition and you could soon be snuggling up next to your own ESSE 1 stove, book and cuppa in hand. Good luck.

For more information, visit esse.com or follow on Instagram: @esse1854.

How to enter 

For your chance to win an ESSE 1 stove, worth £695, click the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 9th April 2025.

Q: Esse stoves have been in production since which year?

Terms and conditions:

*The prize includes doorstep delivery of the ESSE 1 only. Installation by an approved local company will be the winner’s responsibility. The competition closes at 11.59pm on 9th April 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules. 

Competition | Win a Boating Holiday for Six in the UK

Win a seven-night boating adventure with Le Boat for up to six people worth up to £1,700

Get a table with a different view every minute! Le Boat is giving you the chance to win a seven-night self-drive boating holiday for up to six people, where every moment is filled with adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery.

See a different side to England or Scotland as you cruise the historic Thames or the breathtaking Caledonian Canal. Your journey will showcase the beauty of the UK like you’ve never seen before.

No experience? No problem! No prior boating experience or licence is required—anyone can do it. With our easy-to-handle Budget and Comfort boats, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace. To find out more about the holidays visit leboat.com/en.

How to enter

So, why wait? Enter now by clicking the button below and answering a simple question for your chance to win the ultimate getaway and experience the magic of a Le Boat holiday. 

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Terms and conditions

*T&C’s Apply: Must be booked at least eight weeks in advance, departing between 1st April - 31st October 2025, excluding select dates and boat types. Available for departures in the UK on budget and comfort boat types only. For full terms and conditions, visit the Le Boat website. Read The Simple Things’ terms and conditions on page 125 of the magazine or visit thesimplethings.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a Year of Scented Blooms Delivered to your Door

Gift a loved one (or yourself) with fabulous flowers for an entire year, thanks to Scilly Flowers

Just imagine the smile on the face of someone who receives a gift box of scented flowers through the post on a dull mid-winter day. Enter our competition and you could win 12 boxes of scented narcissi, worth over £250, to send to your friends – however, we won’t judge if you choose to enjoy a few yourself.

Grown on the picturesque Isles of Scilly, off the Cornish coast, the ‘Tazetta’ narcissi – a scented cousin of the daffodil – flourish in sheltered fields from October to Easter. The Isles of Scilly are unique in being able to grow flowers outdoors throughout winter without the need for any additional heat or light. As the flowers are delivered directly from where they’re grown, they have a far lower carbon footprint than those grown in heated glasshouses or flown in from further afield. It also makes the scented narcissi a thoughtful gift to brighten a loved one’s day, whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Mother’s
Day or just to let a friend or family member know that you’re thinking about them.

Once the scented narcissi season comes to an end in late spring, owners of Scilly Flowers, Zoe and Ben Julian, and their loyal team of flower pickers at Churchtown Farm on the island of St Martin’s, turn their attention to the summer crop of scented pinks. Similar to carnations, pinks have a subtle hue and a delicate fragrance. On an island, fresh water is a particularly precious resource, and the pinks are grown in coir-filled tubs that reduce the need for irrigation. Once on display, these blooms will brighten any room and are a reminder of the joy that is home-grown in Scilly.

For more info, visit scillyflowers.co.uk or follow on Instagram: @scillyflowers.

How to enter

For a chance to win a year’s supply of scented flowers (12 boxes of flowers to share over the year), enter by clicking on the button below and answering the following question by the closing date: 12 March 2025.

Q: Tazetta narcissi are a cousin of which flower?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 12 March 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at: icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a Janome Sewing Machine worth £449

JANOME sewing machines are synonymous with innovation, quality, and ease of use. This
Winter JANOME have a great all-round sewing machine for one lucky reader to win.

Whether you are sewing for thrift, sustainability or simply pleasure the Janome DC3200 computerised sewing machine is the perfect companion. With a few easy steps you will be up and sewing.

Model DC3200 has lots of easy-to-use features which make sewing a pleasure, It is the machine to grow with your skills and is suitable both for beginners and more experienced sewing practitioners. Fully computerised with stitches and settings at the touch of a button. No fuss threading with the auto needle threader, top loading easy set bobbin & a hard cover for storage.

The Prize

JANOME DC3200 computerised model has 30 stitch choices and three buttonhole styles; this machine is perfect for beginners and more advanced hobbyists alike. Begin your sewing journey with a smooth operating, robustly built JANOME, make the right choice first time.

Visit your local Janome retailer to see the JANOME range or click here to find your nearest store. Follow Janome online at @janomeuk.

How to enter

To be in with a chance of winning just click on the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 14 February 2025.

Q: How many button hole styles does the Janome DC3200 have?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 14 February 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 of the magazine and online at at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win an organic gardening consultation worth £500

It’s the perfect time to plan for the gardening year ahead – and we’ve teamed up with Garden Organic to offer a consultation with its head of organic horticulture and former Blue Peter gardener Chris Collins

Do you want to welcome more wildlife into your garden in 2025, or grow more organic veg? If you’ve always wanted to try gardening the ‘organic way’ then this fantastic competition with the nation’s leading sustainable gardening charity is for you.

Garden Organic promotes organic growing and composting, citizen science and research at its headquarters at Ryton, Coventry – as well as seed conservation through its unique Heritage Seed Library.

The Library conserves the National Collection of Heritage Vegetables, and Calendula, and aims to conserve rare heritage seeds that are not widely available. Each year, it shares the seeds with gardeners through its Seed List so they can be grown again – and in doing so protects plant diversity and food security. You can find out more about heritage seeds in the January issue of The Simple Things, which is on-sale now.

Learn to grow organic!

You can make it your New Year’s resolution to boost biodiversity in your growing space with a two-hour organic gardening consultation. Chris Collins will offer advice and guidance on how to use more natural, wildlife-friendly methods, such as composting, recycling and growing pollinator-friendly and pesticide-free flowers and vegetables.

Organic gardener Chris Collins has more than 35 years in horticulture, and has worked with Garden Organic since 2016. With a huge enthusiasm for gardening sustainably without peat or pesticides, he’ll take you step-by-step through the process - whether you want to sow more heritage seeds, nurture your soil, build a pond, or grow organic vegetables in containers.

What the prize includes

Garden Organic is offering a two-hour online consultation with its head of organic horticulture Chris Collins, which can be redeemed during 2025 once a date between the winner and Chris has been agreed

How to enter

Click on the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 14 February 2025:
Where is Garden Organics’ HQ?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 14 February 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules. 

For more information about Garden Organic or its Heritage Seed Library, go to gardenorganic.org.uk, or find the charity on social media @gardenorganicuk.

Christmas Quiet | Festive Stories to Listen to

December nights are traditionally for story telling. Pour yourself a glass of something and settle down this Christmas Eve to listen to three short stories that we enjoyed when we ran a festive fiction competition back in December 2015.

And don't forget - we print a Bedtime story in every issue of The Simple Things.

A very Merry Christmas from The Simple Things team. X

Christmas Eve by Jennifer Gray

Merribelle’s Gift by Emma Richardson

Wassail by Helen Duncan

Music by Dominic Halpin. Stories read by Anna Hope. Anna Hope trained at RADA and acted for many years before completing an MA in Creative Writing at Birkbeck College. Her first novel 'Wake', which tells the story of three women in London in 1920 dealing with the aftermath of the First World War, was published by Doubleday in January 2014. She's delighted to be reading the short stories for the Simple Things competition. This blog was first published in December 2015.

Buy this month's The Simple Things - buy, download or subscribe

More fun for Christmas Eve…

More reading magic…

Competition | Win a Microwave and Rice Bundle

For nutritious, tasty rice that’s ready in minutes, look no further than Veetee – And we have a microwave and rice bundle up for grabs

A new year often brings about new ideas, adventures and aspirations, and if those plans include new meal inspiration, then Veetee rice may be just the right starting point. Whether you’re embracing Veganuary, trying to make your meals that little bit healthier, or you just want to liven up your regular dishes, Veetee rice guarantees fluffy rice every time without compromising on taste.

Veetee’s 10-stage steam filtering ensures only the finest quality grains make it to your plate, so you get reliably fluffy, fragrant rice at the touch of a button. Available in mouth-watering flavours like classic Basmati, Thai Jasmine, and the very moreish Sticky Rice, Veetee microwave rice pots and trays take the hassle out of healthy eating, meaning you can enjoy satisfying, fuss-free meals in minutes.

If this has woken up your taste buds and ignited some meal inspiration, then our competition may be right up your street. We’ve teamed up with Veetee to give one lucky reader of The Simple Things the chance to win a brand-new microwave filled with delicious Veetee rice products, worth over £200. Two runners-up will also receive Veetee rice packages, worth £25 each. So, regardless of what meal you’re serving up, you can always have flavourful, nutritious rice on hand.

For more information, visit: veetee.com and for inspiration, follow on Instagram at: @veetee_official.

How to enter 

For your chance to win a microwave and Veetee bundle, worth over £200, click the entry button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 24 February 2025.

Q: How many stages are there in Veetee’s steam filtering cooking system?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 24 February 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules. 

Competition | Win a weekend in a Shepherd's Hut

We have a relaxing break in a Blackdown shepherd hut up for grabs, so you can enjoy all the home comforts with nature on your doorstep, thanks to Dimpsey glamping

As the festive season rolls in and we approach the final crescendo of the year, celebrations fill the social calendar and spending valuable time with loved ones takes centre-stage. Whether it’s sipping bubbles, surrounded by sparkling fairy lights at parties or getting together for bracing winter walks, crunching through frosty fields, followed by cosy afternoons in front of the fire, life is full. But as December slips into January, things slow down to a more sustainable pace and thoughts turn to plans and ambitions for the new year ahead.

If you’re longing to pencil in a treat to look forward to – something a little more peaceful than activities of late – then a glamping break might be just what you’re after. The Simple Things has teamed up with our friends at Blackdown Shepherd Huts and glamping retreat, Dimpsey, to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night off-peak stay for two in Hither, a beautifully crafted shepherd hut in Chard, Somerset, together with a 60-minute relaxing massage* for one guest.

With all the comforts of a high-end break, including sumptuous beds, cosy wood-burners and UK-made artisan pieces throughout, a shepherd hut stay at Dimpsey combines the best of luxury living with the simplicity of nature just outside your door. So, you can relax and embrace the opportunity to totally switch off and recharge your batteries, ready to tackle all the adventures that are yet to come later in the year.

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

* An additional massage can be booked and paid for independently.

How to enter

For your chance to win a two-night stay at Dimpsey glamping retreat, worth £375, click the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 7 January 2025.

Q: What is the name of the shepherd hut in Chard, Somerset that the winner will stay in?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 7 January 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap for cash. Massage is for one winner only. An additional treatment can be purchased separately. Subject to availability. The off-peak break must be taken by 30 June 2025 and excludes Christmas, New Year, Easter, school holidays and weekends. Details of our full T&Cs are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a hamper from Suma worth £300

Whether you have a walk-in pantry, a larder unit or a simple storecupboard, show it some love with Suma Wholefoods

So often, convenience trumps quality, which is why there’s something deeply rewarding about slowing down and making thoughtful choices for yourself and the planet. When life gets hectic, having a cupboard full of simple ingredients allows us to make meals that bring comfort and nourishment. Suma Wholefoods – a worker-owned co-operative based in Yorkshire – is committed to providing organic, Fairtrade, and sustainable products that help you make nourishing meals while staying true to your values.

Ingredients that matter

One of the joys of a Suma Wholefoods pantry is knowing that each item is ethically, fairly and sustainably sourced, ideal for those seeking more mindful living. Imagine opening your cupboard and finding whole grains like organic quinoa, bulgur wheat, and arborio rice, ready to nourish body and soul. Staples in any kitchen, they’re a great starting point for comforting stews, risottos, or grain bowls and can be easily adapted to whatever seasonal produce you have in.

Then, there are the pulses. Suma’s range of lentils, chickpeas and beans is great for those looking for simplicity. A jar of lentils can quickly become a warming soup or a hearty stew, giving you sustenance on even the busiest of autumn days. They’re affordable, versatile, and packed with plant-based protein – keeping you and your family full and happy.

Beyond the basics

No pantry or storecupboard is complete without the essentials that bring depth and warmth to your dishes. Suma’s organic tinned tomatoes, beans, and coconut milk are the simple foundations for easy, nourishing meals. These basics, paired with Suma’s range of dried herbs and spices, allow you to effortlessly create rich, flavourful meals that feel special without excess time and or effort.

Suma’s range of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits make a healthy snack or can be added to dishes for extra texture and nutrition. Try sprinkling chia seeds on your breakfast oats or tossing almonds into a salad for an easy dash of goodness.

Treat yourself, mindfully

There are also times when it’s essential to indulge a little. A mug of coffee and a home baked treat offers a simple way to unwind during a busy day, reminding you of the joy in small, mindful pleasures. Suma’s Fairtrade-certified organic Peruvian coffee, grown by a co-operative of women farmers, provides an ideal pick-me-up. Well balanced and smooth, this coffee not only tastes great but also supports sustainable farming communities. Pair it with a homemade flapjack made from organic Scottish jumbo oats and sweet medjool dates – simple, yet satisfying, and packed with fibre and slow-release energy for a healthy boost. Ethical and sustainable, food done fairly.

Win a £300 Suma hamper

If this all sounds like your cup of tea… or coffee… or flapjack even, you’ll be pleased to hear that The Simple Things has teamed up with Suma to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a hamper packed with a selection of Suma’s finest goodies, worth over £300. Brimming with whole grains, pulses, delicious snacks and ethical treats, it’s your chance to fill up your storecupboard with the best that Suma Wholefoods has to offer. An ideal way to start your journey towards simpler, more sustainable living. Scroll down to enter…

For more information and inspiration, visit suma.coop

How to enter 

For your chance to win a Suma hamper, worth £300, click the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 4 December 2024.

Q: What county are Suma Wholefoods based in?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 4 December 2024. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at: icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win £500 to spend at Garden Trading

As we batten down the hatches and snuggle up indoors, there’s no better time to treat your home to an autumnal refresh. Whether you’re serving hearty, home-cooked meals or simply settling in for a peaceful evening, Garden Trading’s latest collection of homewares, lighting, furniture, and timeless accessories brings warmth and comfort the moment you step over the threshold.

Cosy autumn days provide a great opportunity to create a memorable dining experience at home. From classic to contemporary, Garden Trading’s new collection blends natural textures with quality craftsmanship, offering a range of styles and finishes that let you curate the heart of your home to reflect your unique taste. This season, statement pieces like the Bayur wood freestanding furniture make their debut. While the Walcote range – launched in celebration of Garden Trading’s 30 years of beautifully crafted designs – brings a country kitchen aesthetic to life.

To help inspire your next home update, The Simple Things has teamed up with Garden Trading to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a £500 gift voucher. Enter today for the opportunity to spruce up your living space and style a home that looks and feels as warm and welcoming as the season itself.

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

How to enter 

For your chance to win £500 to spend at Garden Trading, enter our competition by clicking the button below and answering the following question by the closing date of 4 December 2024. 

Q: What is the name of the range launched in celebration of Garden Trading’s 30 years?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 4 December 2024. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win Seasonal Soups (plus a microwave to heat them up)

HungryHead soups are packed with flavour and are ready to enjoy in just a minute

With the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal can be a challenge, let alone making every meal from scratch. But thanks to HungryHeads, you can now savour stunning soups in no time at all.

To celebrate the launch of its new range, HungryHeads is inviting readers of The Simple Things the chance to win a microwave that’s packed with rich servings of SoupHead meals to keep you warm in the cold months to come, plus two additional meal bundles to give you even more bowl-ready options. In total, the prize is worth more than £200.

The SoupHead range is made up of five sensational flavours – vegetable and sweetcorn, tom yum, yunan congee, hot and sour, and tom kha gai. The winner will be well stocked up with Asian-inspired, flavour-packed meals that you can have piping hot on the table in 60 seconds. They’re just what you need to keep you well fed during your busy day.

SoupHead is just one of the tantalising varieties available. NoodleHead, PastaHead, Mac ’n’ CheeseHead and RamenHead ensure that whatever else you’re in the mood for – a hearty noodle dish, a pack-a-punch pasta, a cheesy pleasure or a soothing ramen – HungryHeads will fill you up.

Find HungryHeads in Tesco. Discover more at thehungryheads.com/noodlehead and follow on Instagram @Be_a_noodlehead

How to enter

For your chance to win a microwave and range of soups, enter our competition by clicking the button and answering the question below by the closing date of 13 November 2024.

Q: How many flavours make up the SoupHead range?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 13 November 2024. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.