JULY GUIDE
JULY
Fancy summer in the Alps? Morzine, France, July and August
HOT OFF THE PRESS! Chalet Fourmiliere is offering A FABULOUS 15% OFF all stays in this utterly gorgeous chalet, throughout July and August (subject to availability), exclusively to you gorgeous Muddy readers. Morzine is utterly perfect in the summer – only an hour from Geneva, it offers trekking, white water rafting, paddle boarding on the lake, a fab outdoor pool (or three), a wild and wacky Goat Village and the best mountain biking in the alps. Take my word for it – it’s the best family holiday ever. Book now! www.chaletfourmiliere.com Email them to find out more!
15% Discount at The Pink Pheasant! To Wed 10 July
The Pink Pheasant has a 15% discount on all items on their website, using code MUDDY15 at checkout. This fabulous boutique site has picked up a Muddy Award for its outstanding products, from the decorative furnishings to personalised jewellery pieces. Go on, get shopping! www.thepinkpheasant.co.uk
Fresh Air Sculpture 2019, The Old Rectory, Quenington, to Sun 7 July
This impressive biennial contemporary art show and sculpture exhibition celebrates the stark yet beautiful differences between the rural, tranquil landscape of The Old Rectory, and cutting-edge sculptures and artwork. Fresh Air Sculpture brings over 130 pieces of outside sculptural work to this fantastic setting, with its expansive organic garden, lovely lawns, and River Coln running through. Each piece is created from a variety of ornate stone, stunning glass, textiles and impressive metal work – and is for show and sale, you lucky people! Take a tour around the grounds where they’ve been specially built, as if the work belonged there. Alongside this, The Pool House transforms into a contemporary craft gallery for the duration of Fresh Air Sculpture, inviting artist makers from across disciplines to interpret views through clay, glass, metals, wood and cloth emerging to form unique collections for visitors to purchase. The full line up of Pool House Gallery exhibitors can be seen here. Fancy getting stuck in yourself? Check out their range of workshopsincluding collage, lettering, paper cut out and textile-based printing. £7.50 entry, under 18s free, www.freshairsculpture.com
Mystery Masterpiece Auction, Broadway Arts Festival, Little Buckland Art Gallery, to Sun 7 July
View over 250 artworks from renowned artists with different technique, inspirations and style. The 30 pieces which receive the most online interest will be auctioned by celebrity auctioneer Phillip Serrel on 7th July. Simply come to enjoy the artwork, or if something really catches your eye place a bid. littlebucklandgallery.co.uk
The Comedy of Errors, venues in Glos, to 14 July
Downpour Theatre Company presents The Comedy of Errors, Shakespeare’s shortest yet wittiest play at Rendcomb College (5 and 6 July), as well as Bristol Shakespeare Festivals (13-14 July). Be transported to the Byzantine Empire, when hilarity ensues when Antipholus of Syracuse and his servant Dromio arrive in the hustle and bustle of Ephesus which, unbeknownst to them, is the home of their identical twins, Antipholus and Dromio from whom they were separated in a tragic shipwreck when they were just infants. Over the course of a single day, mistaken identities lead to unfair beatings, wrongful arrests and false accusations of infidelity, theft, madness and even demonic possession. A gloriously silly farce, performed by a marvellously talented cast; what better way to spend a summer weekend! Get your tix here. www.downpourtheatrecompany.co.uk
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Wimbledon Afternoon Tea, The Greenway Hotel and Spa, Cheltenham, to Mon 15 July
Enjoy a joyous summer afternoon tea in celebration of Wimbledon. Throw in some finger sandwiches, sunny weather and a glass of Pimms and you’re in for a fabulous afternoon. www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com
Early Summer Special, Woolley Grange Hotel, Bradford on Avon, to Thurs 18 July
Slip away for a midweek break to countryside haven, Woolley Grange hotel. This special offer includes a complimentary breakfast and dinner for two, three or four-night stays with prices from £329. www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk
Yoga for Men with Real Life Yoga, Santosha Studio, Chippenham, to Sun 21 July
Top athletes turn to yoga to complement their training and increase their focus, others use it as a way to increase core strength and muscle definition. Or, it can be used purely as a means of relaxation and meditation. This five-week course is specifically built to introduce men who are just beginning to learn about yoga and its benefits. Sounds fab. www.santoshastudio.co.uk
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Baroque Night, The Prince Albert, Stroud, Tues 2 July
Renowned musician and composer Dave Ayre and his talented band will be performing at the Prince Albert pub. Spend an evening listening to the best classical pieces at the 25th Baroque night – it’s bound to be a special one! www.theprincealbertstroud.co.uk
Dead Dog in a Suitcase (and other love stories), Bristol Old Vic, Bristol, Tues 2 – Sat 13 July
The phenomenal Kneehigh’s witty, wonderful and weird reworking of John Gay’s musical satire The Beggar’s Opera. Review to follow.
USA Night, The Looking Glass, Cheltenham, Wed 3 July
Celebrate our friends over the other side of the pond with classic US dishes including corn bread, crispy buttermilk chicken and a banana split, finished off with a cold bottle of America beer. thelookingglasscheltenham.co.uk
Ladies’ Lunch with David Waters, Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Thurs 4 July
Founder of Great Bustard Group, David Waters will be joining the monthly Ladies’ Luncheon for a delicious two course meal. Discuss the importance of David’s charity work fighting against the extinction of birds within the UK. www.bowood.org
Dr Phil Hammond, Komedia, Bath, Thurs 4 July
NHS specialist, Private Eye journo, campaigner and comedian Dr Phil Hammond with his two Edinburgh Fringe shows. komediabath.co.uk
An Evening with Tyson Fury, Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Fri 5 July
Tyson the ‘Gypsy King’ Fury will be taking to the Wyvern Theatre stage for one night only. The legendary boxer will greet fans, take pictures and tell all about his remarkable and controversial career. swindontheatres.co.uk
Cheltenham Music Festival, Thurs 5 July to Sat 14 July
Cheltenham is famous for its established, respected and varied festivals, with tents appear throughout the historic town throughout the summer months celebrating arts, literature and of course, music. Cheltenham Music Festival is a celebration of music culture, musicians, instruments and song writing. Kicking off the festival are free concerts in Imperial Square, followed by an impressive line-up of acts including London Symphony Orchestra, Danielle de Niese, Nicola Benedetti and many more. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com
Steak Night, Hillbrush, Mere, Fri 5 July
On every first Friday of the month, Hillbrush offer the crackin’ deal of two steak dinners plus drinks for £25. And for any our veggie lovers, they offer a Vegetarian option for £20. Better mark this one on your calendar and make it a tradition! visit.hillbrush.com
Cornbury Music Festival, The Great Tew Park, Oxon; 5 – 7 July
The Beach Boys and The Specials head the bill at this civilised festival that prides itself on being quintessentially English. Think country fair with a rock’n’roll twist. Jovial Geordies The Hairy Bikers provide the food.
Minety Music Festival, Minety, near Malmesbury, Wilts, 5 – 7 July
Love a good ABBA tribute? Well, get yourself tickets for this not-for-profit, community festival then – and be transported back to the ’70s. minetyfestival.co.uk
Frome Festival, venues around Frome, Fri 5 July – Sun 14 July
Celebrating the 200th anniversary of JW Singer (iconic statue maker, Justice on top of the Old Bailey is one of his), the festival of arts includes the Food Feast, the Hidden Gardens, Open Studios, Scouting for Girls, DJ superstar Judge Jules, The Coral, Jethro, the Miracle Theatre and The Drifters in a post-festival encore. Full programme here. fromefestival.co.uk
Japanese with Wakako, Vaughan’s Kitchen, Devizes, Sat 6 July
Specially trained Japanese chef Wakako Guppy, will be teaching you how to combat the notoriously difficult authentic Japanese cooking. Wakako wants to make Japanese food more accessible and give people the confidence and skills to try delicious Japanese recipes in their own homes. This class will teach you how to make sushi, Japanese fish soup, tempura batter, gomaae salad and tofu cheesecake. www.vaughanskitchen.co.uk
Natalie Shay Live, The Prince Albert, Stroud, Sat 6 July
Multi-award-winning singer Natalie Shay has proved herself in the London scene, firmly planting herself within the up and coming UK artists. Her single ‘This Feeling’ reached number 4 in the iTunes chart, and her technique is equally as impressive thanks to her training with the BRIT school. The Prince Albert has snapped up a rare opportunity to get Natalie on their stage for an evening of her original indie tunes and some brilliant covers. www.theprincealbertstroud.co.uk
World Chocolate Day, Ramsbury Estate and Distillery, Marlborough, Sun 7 July
Take a chocolate making masterclass with the Ramsbury pastry chef. You’ll get the pick of some delicious recipes, homemade chocolates to take away and a glass of prosecco. www.ramsburyestates.co.uk
Soulful Self Care Sunday, Kalm n Kind Yoga, White Horse Yoga Centre, Devizes, Sun 7 July
Take some time for yourself and re-adjust – join Kalm n Kind for a gentle yoga session and afternoon tea to finish. kalmnkindyoga.co.uk
Ferment Fortnight, Bristol Old Vic, Bristol, Mon 8 – Sat 20 July
The bi-annual work-in-progress fest showcasing some of the most exciting artists and companies across the South West. bristololdvoc.org.uk
Rock of Ages, Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Mon 8 July to Sat 13 July
Jam out to some classic rock bangers in the smash hit musical Rock of Ages. This hugely popular west end show is coming to Swindon for one week only, so don’t hang around on bagging some tickets. swindontheatres.co.uk
Instagram Workshop with Matt Inwood, Bowood Hotel & Spa, Calne, Mon 8 July
The key to a successful Instagram page is engaging content and high-quality photography – this workshop is perfectly suited to foodies, blogger or anyone hoping to improve their Instagram content. www.bowood.org
Calendar Girls – the Musical, Bristol Hippodrome, Tues 9 – Sat 20 July
The WI get their kit off. Based on a true story, the real calendar girls have raised £5millon for the Bloodwise cancer charity. Tickets
Never Have to Ask Twice, The Parenting Partnership, John Lewis, Cheltenham, Thurs 11 July
The Parenting Partnership are a brilliant and vital team of professionals here to help you navigate the complicated role of being a parent. This special talk will cover why children don’t listen and practical ways to encourage children to listen and to follow instructions. Yep, I need that! www.theparentingpartnership.com
The Slinky Fox at The Dog and Gun Inn, Netheravon, Thurs 11, 18 and 25 July
Don’t miss the best pizza in town! 4pm – 8.30pm every Thursday The Dog and Gun Inn welcomes The Slinky Fox artisan wood fired pizza pop ups – let Thursday be the new Friday! You can also find them every Friday 4-8.30pm outside Old Sarum Community. theslinkyfox.co.uk
Restorative Yoga Evening, Kalm n Kind Yoga, White Horse Yoga Centre, Devizes, Fri 12 July
Warm up, stretch out and find your zen during this restorative yoga evening. This class is specifically targeted for relaxation to help even the busiest and stressed individuals find a quiet and tranquil moment. kalmnkindyoga.co.uk
Clay Planter Workshop, New Brewery Arts, Cirencester, Sat 13 July
Create your own amazing and handcrafted planters which will make a perfect edition to your summer garden. You’ll learn a variety of ceramic hand building techniques as well as decorative techniques to make your planters truly unique.www.newbreweryarts.org.uk
New Brewery Arts Summer School, Cirencester, 13 July – 23 August
Book NOW for this fab host of workshops covering all kinds of different craft at the brilliant New Brewery Arts. Their second Summer School is a feast of craft – sculpture, papercraft, textiles, printmaking, ceramics, stone carving, drawing and painting. Workshops are half, one, two or three days, and are run by experienced tutors, allowing you to explore a craft in greater depth. Got a crafty little one on your hands? These are a great way to keep the Mudsters busy on the loooooooong summer break. If you’re coming from further afield, accommodation is available at The Barrel Store next door. www.newbreweryarts.org.uk/summer-school
A Discovery of Rose’ – Summer lunch with Yapp Brothers Wines’, Howards House Hotel, Salisbury, Sat 13 July
Love wine? Love the summer sun? Join wine experts Yapp brothers for an exploration of the finest rose wines, supported by a delicious al fresco summer lunch on the garden terrace. Sounds like bliss. howardshousehotel.co.uk
Marlborough College Summer School, 14 July – 10 August
OK, so you’re going to have to wait for this one until the summer hols, but definitely book your place now to avoid disappointment! Recognised as one of the South West’s top Artistic, Cultural and Learning Experiences, the Summer School caters for kids from 3 years to 90 – choose from day courses, week-long camps or residential jaunts for the whole family. Kids are split into Junior Troopers, Young Adventurers and Teenagers, with a bonkers amount of action-packed courses to choose from including Cricket, Clay Shooting, Martial Arts, Dance Fusion, Drama, Fencing, Water Polo, Adventures in Clay, Beginners Harp and Stay Alive Survival. While there’s plenty of the obvious, the majority of courses are designed to offer your little ones experiences they’ve never tried before. summerschool.co.uk
Outdoor courses include Horse Riding, Tennis, Road Cycling, Metal Detecting: Discover History Beneath Your Feet, A Week of Foraging, Outdoor Adventures and LOADS more!
Yoga retreat with Yoga Glow, Ellenborough Park Hotel, 14 July and 11 Aug
A whole day of uplifting, feel-good and relaxing yoga, delicious nourishing food and fun at Ellenborough Park Hotel, the finest luxury hotel in Cheltenham. Spend a day in beautiful surroundings with like-minded people, a chance to discover well-being from inside out and wind up feeling blissfully rested, inspired and energised. Book now! www.theyogaglowuk.com
8 Stars 1 Kitchen, Whatley Manor, Malmesbury, Mon 15 July
Join four of the most renowned chef’s in the country for a spectacular banquet in aid of Hospitality Action’s Social Sunday. Whatley Manor welcomes three accomplished chefs’ including Christian Bau, Mark Birchall and Brett Graham, who between them have 8 Michelin stars. There are few opportunities you’ll get to taste such exceptional food from chefs with such different styles, techniques and talents. www.whatleymanor.com
Pizza & Beer, The Looking Glass, Cheltenham, Wed 17 July
Grab a pizza and beer at the Looking Glass in Cheltenham for £10 per person. There are some delicious sourdough bread pizzas on offer with some interesting tasty ingredients, including cured meats and wild garlic. thelookingglasscheltenham.co.uk
Cinema Night: Terrace Screenings, Cowley Manor, 18 July, 24 Aug, 21 Sep
Fresh from the silver screen, catch tip tops screenings at the top lawn at Cowley this summer, featuring Bohemian Rhapsody,. A Star is Born, Grease and The Greatest Showman. www.cowleymanor.com
Jewellery Making, Lechlade Craft Barn, Lechlade, Thurs 18 July
Get introduced to technical craft of jewellery making. Learn how to use tools, create clasps and design your own beautiful and original pieces. www.lechladecraftbarn.com
Larmer Tree Festival, Larmer Tree Gardens, Salisbury, Wed 18 July – Sat 21 July
A bigger line up than ever with The Cat Empire, KT Tunstall, Kate Tempest and Jack Savoretti. Activities, family fun and live events. Larmertreefestival.co.uk
Planning Planting – Garden Workshop, Bowood Hotel & Spa, Calne, Fri 19 July
Creating your perfect garden can be time consuming and takes real planning to ensure you’ve chosen the right foliage and design to keep your garden looking its best all year round. During the workshop they’ll discuss the key tips and techniques that professionals use to keep a garden looking healthy all year round. www.bowood.org
Chalfest, Chalford, near Stroud, Glos, 20 July
Tickets are nearly gone for the hippest village festival EVER. It went off like a well-oiled festival fun machine in 2018 and is on a roll to be even bigger and better this year with more acts, more free stuff to do, more food, more cool stuff to buy – just more of everything! chalfest.co.uk
Aluminium Jewellery Workshop, New Brewery Arts, Cirencester, Sat 20 July
Learn to make your own jewellery out of anodised aluminium. Colour, cut and shape an aluminium sheet into a gorgeous necklace, bracelet, earrings or brooch. www.newbreweryarts.org.uk
In the Steps of Apollo 3D, We the Curious, Bristol, Sat 20 July onwards
On the 5oth anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, a new musical show about the big cheese and the legacy of the lunar landing, with a talk by Debbie Ireland, Curator of the Royal Photographic Society exhibition Space Steps: The Moon and Beyond. 16+ wethecurious.org
Stone Age Summer, Cheddar Gorge & Caves, Sat 20 July – Sat 1 Sept
Relive the Stone Age in Somerset’s pre-historic caves. Learn about Cheddar Man, Britain’s oldest most complete skeleton discovered in Gough’s Cave. Discover the story of early man via the Dreamhunters multimedia experience. Dress up as Stone Age person, make thumb clay pots and brass rubbings of a woolly mammoth. See original artefacts and meet a hunter-gatherer. cheddargorge.co.uk
Modern Calligraphy, New Brewery Arts, Cirencester, Wed 24 July
Learn key calligraphy basics like how to use essential tools, mark making drills to practice applying pressure to a calligraphy pen. Soon enough you’ll be creating the most amazing hand-written cards, notes and invites. www.newbreweryarts.org.uk
Legally Blonde Jr. The Musical, Wharf Theatre, Devizes, Wed 24 July to Sat 27 July
Based on the cult-classic film and award-winning Broadway musical, this hilarious amateur adaptation takes you on fabulously pink journey of self-empowerment by disbanding stereotypes and proving we can accomplish anything we set our minds to. This production is filled with humour, wit and sass and instantly recognisable Broadway songs. www.ticketsource.co.uk
Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle, Lulworth, Thurs 25 – Sun 28 July
The super child-friendly alternative to Bestival, this one has loads to keep little people happy while you empty that box of wine. Human League, Chic, Jess Glynne are playing, with Sara Cox, Annie Mac and Spice Girl Mel C on DJ duties.
Womad, Charlton Park, Malmesbury, Thurs 25 – Sun 28 July
Founded by Peter Gabriel in 1980 this fest still stands out. Acts include Ziggy Marley, Orbital and Anna Calvi – there’s always a feel-good offering of global culture with large side dish of happy vibes. womad.co.uk
Ballet Under The Stars, Hatch House, 26-28 July
The Covent Garden Dance Company celebrates the 10th Anniversary of ‘Ballet Under the Stars’ this July, in Hatch House’s beautiful and romantic 17th Century Walled Dutch Garden. Enjoy breathtaking dance performances – a stunning mix of classical, neo-classical and contemporary ballet, celebrating the last decade of dance. This year boasts one of the most impressive line-ups of world class dancers that have ever performed at Hatch, including stars such as Xander Parish OBE of The Mariinsky Ballet, the first British dancer to ever be employed by this prestigious company, Steven McRae and Lauren Cuthbertson, both Principals with The Royal Ballet and Ksenia Ovsyanick, Principal Staatsballett Berlin. The programme will take some beating too, with highlights including tap work “Something Different” performed by Steven McRae. A quintessentially British evening in a beautiful country garden – a truly unmissable event. www.coventgardendance.com
Bowood’s Summer Garden Party, Bowood House and Gardens, Calne, Sat 27 July
Bowood House kick off the summer holidays with the ultimate outdoor get together. Enjoy a BBQ, face painting, bouncy castles, a Punch and Judy show and much more! www.bowood.org
Parent and Child Workshop, Pure Punjabi, Downton, Sat 27 July
This mother and daughter duo cook up an absolute storm in the kitchen. Bring your little ibe to learn how to make a traditional North Indian cuisine and have a blast! www.purepunjabi.co.uk
Summer Party, Previous Homewares, Corsham, Sat 27 July
Previous Homewares stock everything weird, wonderful, quirky and vintage in their brilliant store. They’ve invited Muddy readers to their evening summer party, with big discounts on offer! There will be complimentary Pimms and nibbles available whilst you peruse all the items on sale. Don’t miss out! www.previoushomewares.co.uk
Cowley Manor, near Cheltenham, 31 July
It’s 1792 and France is deep in the throes of revolution. The aristocracy are holding out for a hero, and one swoops in from across the Channel. A tale of England and France, of rich and poor, of divided loyalties and of a mysterious hero saving French nobles from the guillotine – just for fun! A small troupe of actors adopt a variety of disguises, accents and probably some beards, as Baroness Orczy’s classic adventure story The Scarlet Pimpernel gets the Jenny Wren treatment.
Cotswolds Decorative, Antiques & Art Fair, Westonbirt School, Tetbury, Fri 2 to Sun 4 Aug
Fabulous, eye-catching and unusual art and antiques return to Westonbirt School this 2-4 August at our fave fair of the year, the Cotswolds Decorative, Antiques & Art Fair. With a huge variety of pieces for collectors, home furnishers, interior designers and anyone looking for unusual decorative accessories, it’s your chance to find some real gems, from vintage fashion and costume jewellery, to traditional antique pieces or the latest in decorative chic style. A cut above other vintage fairs, dealers from all over the UK and Europe will be selling Mid-Century Modern, eye-catching Art Deco, contemporary sculpture, industrial chic, painted furniture, portraits and glamorous jewellery…need I go on? cooperevents.com/westonbirt
Wilderness, Cornbury Park, Oxford; 1 – 4 Aug
Possibly the coolest local festival of them all, here there’s a heady mix of right-on hippiness (think yoga, skinny-dipping and hot tubs) combined with impressive big-name music bookings. The line up has just been released with Groove Armada returning to the Wilderness Main Stage along with Robyn, Bombay Bicycle Club and Tom Odell.
School of Wizardry, Cheltenham, Mon 5 Aug to Fri 9 Aug and Mon 12 Aug to Fri 16 Aug
This spellbinding magic school is only for the most dedicated young witches and wizards, enough to rival the famous students of Hogwarts. Inspired by the magical world created by J.K Rowling this summer school gets your little magicians acting out magical scenes, singing enchanting songs and even learn a magic trick or two. www.camda.org
Wildlife Safari, Tudor Farmhouse, Clearwell, Dates in August, September and October
Wildlife expert and broadcaster Ed Drewitt has teamed up with Tudor Farmhouse to create the ultimate West Country safari. Explore the ancient wonderland to discover one it’s many residents including bats, deer, badgers, foxes, voles, mice, hedgehogs and wild boar. tudorfarmhousehotel.co.uk
Marlborough Rising, 9-11 Aug
Marlborough Rising bursts back into town 9-11 August for its second year on the music-fest scene. This three-day banger of an event showcases live music from acoustic strings to blues, from orchestral pop to songs from the shows – there’s something for everyone this year! The venture (dreamed up by an enthusiastic group in the back room of the Green Dragon, no less) deserves a whack of support – the music promises to be wide ranging, catering for all tastes and has already proved to be a fabulously threatening new kid on the block in the Wilts live music scene.
Soul Circus, Yoga & Wellness Festival, Elmore near Gloucester, Glos, 16-19 Aug
The ultimate wellness festival, Soul Circus promises to blow your mind, body and soul, show you a good time and leave you feeling balanced and Zen-like at the end of it. Now in its fourth year, expect sunrise sessions with masters of yoga and sunset kickback parties, with a menu of healthy food and drink (yes there’s booze!). Tickets are going quick, so book now – it’s good for you! soulcircus.yoga
Not to Miss!
Two for Tuesday, Hillbrush, Mere, Every Tuesday through July
Throughout July, Hillbrush will be offering any desserts or side for free if you buy a main. There is a chocolate brownie sundae on the menu, so you can bet you’ll see me there! visit.hillbrush.com
Schools Summer Challenge, Cotswold Discovery Trail
Get your school involved in the Summer Schools Challenge and compete against other schools in the area. Get the students out and exercising with a dose of healthy competition as you jump up the school’s league table, available on the website. Schools will also receive a big discount on all the trail packs throughout the Cotswold. www.cotswolddiscoverytrail.com
Water Babies, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, Discount on Autumn Term!
Water Babies offer Muddy readers a 5% discount on Chapter 1 swimming lessons, if booked by the 31st of July. Snap this up quick as places are hugely popular. www.waterbabies.co.uk
The Holibobs Facial, Lifestyle Health and Beauty, Hankerton
Lifestyle Health and Beauty are offering an absolute fab one-off deal this summer. If you’re looking for a bargain pamper session to get you ready for your holiday, this dual facial will do just the trick. The first step will help prep your skin and the second step will deep moisturise and hydrate using a vitamin E infused cream to help prolong your healthy glow. Each facial usually costs £75 each, but this special offer includes both facials for £120. lifestylehealthandbeauty.co.uk
Baby’s First Stay Away, Woolley Grange Hotel, Bradford-on-Avon, Valid Sunday to Wednesday until Thurs 19 Dec
Bringing kids away for the first time can be a daunting experience. The plans you had to relax and unwind can quickly become stressful. Woolley Grange Hotel have set up the perfect get away if you plan to bring a baby. They’ll provide anything you need whether its bottle cleaning, baby listening service, highchairs or cots. They have thought of everything to ensure you’ll have the most stress-free family break possible. Included in the deal is a personalised welcome hamper, parent and baby first swim lesson, Baby Breakfast Club and babysitting services. www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk
We luuuurve these unique campervans (each with their own personality, no less) which will totally make you stand out from the crowd at the best of the fests. Book one for your favourite festival, and then you’ll be back to bag it again for the summer hols – Wanderlust Camper Co are launching a series of experiences, and whether it’s road tripping around the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, or hitting the Cider Route for artisan cider and perry producers around Herefordshire, you’ll want to take a look. *BREAKING NEWS* Wanderlust Camper Co are offering 10% off to all Muddy readers for any 2019 break when taken by 30th September. Minimum 3 nights. Enter ‘muddy10’ at the checkout to redeem. www.wanderlustcamperco.com
Book ahead:
The Big Feastival, Kingham, Oxon; 23-25 Aug
This posh nosh extravaganza on the farm of cheese-obsessed Blur bassist Alex James hosts top chefs alongside music acts. Line-up details are tba but this is definitely one to bookmark if you’re a foodie. The only downside is you might bump into Cotswolds locals David Cameron and Jeremy Clarkson.
End of the Road, Larmer Tree Gardens, near Blandford, Dorset, 29 August to 1 September
Small but perfectly formed, this alternative music festival is perfect for anyone who balks at massive crowds and loves a bit of folk, Ameriana and alt country. They get some good headliners here – last year Jesus and Mary Chain for one. Early Birds and Tier 1, 2 and 3 tickets have already sold out, so don’t dilly dally. endoftheroadfestival.com
Verve Festival, Ebbesborne Wake, Wilts, 7-8 Sep
Get your tix now for this fab new wellness festival celebrating health, fitness and the great outdoors. All ages are welcome for a weekend of yoga and meditation, Pilates, exercise classes and guided farm runs in the most picturesque location imaginable in South Wiltshire, plus there will be a full education programme, covering health & wellness, nutrition, sleep, mindfulness, life coaching, children’s health and much more. Enjoy mindful activities such as foraging, bushcraft in the woods, silent walks or landscape drawing with a local artist. Reconnect with yourself and your surroundings in workshops that celebrate the beauty of The Chalke Valley and promote mindfulness and wellbeing. Oh, and there is a Zest Spa! What’s not to like? www.feeltheverve.com
Born to Parent course, 19-20 September
