Elaine Hastings

Shaped by her love and experiences of the 90s music scene, we spoke to Kingston author Elaine Hastings about writing her debut novel, When We Were Young.

Record Breaker

Business owner, DJ, skateboarder, father - Jon Tolley is the force behind Banquet Records. Trusted by artists and loved by the community, Banquet grew from one small high street shop into an industry go-to. We spoke to Jon about his passion for the job and breaking into music.

The Great Summer Treasure Hunt

Explore Surrey’s historic landmarks for the ultimate summer’s day out. Angelina Villa-Clarke puts the county’s prettiest beauty sites – steeped in fascinating facts - on the map.

A head for style

From her riverside studio in the heart of Kingston upon Thames, Bee Smith Millinery blends timeless elegance with head-turning design.

All Inclusive

Whether you’re 80 or 8, age is but a number when it comes to moving your body and exercising your mind. Meet the coaches motivating teens, empowering kids, and strengthening adults.

The thrill of it

From scream-inducing rollercoasters to toddler-friendly character rides, visiting a theme park is one of the highlights of the summer. Here’s our ultimate guide of what to expect at some of the UK’s favourite parks.

Union Jack

After walking from Epsom Clocktower to Glasgow earlier this year, dad-of-two Jack Percival, 30, is on a fundraising mission for causes close to home, including the charity he founded, Percy’s Homeless Hub.

Bloomin’ lovely

From green spaces bursting with flowers to whimsical fairy trails, Angelina Villa-Clarke tracks down a few of Surrey’s prettiest gardens

Awkwardly adulting

Local writer Kim Hawley is back to share her musings and this time it’s about reinventing Mother’s Day…

Books in Bloom

Spring into your next read with these recommendations from Regency Bookshop in Surbiton.

Style in the Suburbs

Did you know that Kingston has long been a powerhouse of creativity, shaping fashion and design in ways you might not expect?

A helping hand

Local charity Home-Start provides emotional and practical support to families in need through their team of dedicated volunteers.

Bounce your way into Spring

From hiking across Surrey’s countryside to cooking in the wild, Angelina Villa-Clarke discovers six ways to get your mojo back as we say hello to longer days ahead.

The Art of Wintering

As tempting as it might be to hole up once the temperatures plummet, the quiet days of winter are also the best time to try something new.

Back to the Future

While technology continues to plug itself into every single part of our daily lives, a retro revival is keeping pace right alongside it.

Indulge, Relax, Repeat

To celebrate National Spa Week, Angelina Villa-Clarke finds the best holistic havens.

Ripple Effect

Queen’s Promenade Friends are a volunteer group helping improve the river walkway in Kingston upon Thames. We spoke with Stefan Gross, Chair of QPF, about how rejuvenating areas along the river has renewed a sense of local, community spirit.

Let’s hear it for our heroes

This Father’s Day, why not plan a day to remember for the special Dad in your life? Angelina Villa-Clarke finds five ways to make him feel on top of the world.

It’s Showtime

Discover and enjoy world class theatre right here on our doorstep at The Rose Theatre. This summer, explore an incredible line up from family friendly productions to shows that will have you laughing, singing and dancing in the aisles.

Take me to the River

Local hot spots to enjoy along the water this summer.

Grooving through life with Hannah Dorman

Welcome to our musician spotlight! This month we have Hannah Dorman, a singer songwriter that has a big voice, and even bigger dreams. In this Q&A, we'll uncover her mottos in life, her inspiration for her music, and what's next for the future!

Step into Autumn with a Soulful Day Out

From leaf-peeping to theatre trips, Angelina Villa-Clarke finds Surrey’s most satisfying days out to make the most of the new season ahead.