January 27, 2025

Your go-to guide to Surbiton

Sarah Taylor, owner of boutique Shoes at Last, and one of the founders of Surbiton Farmers Market, has been at No.81 Maple Road for 21 years. She says,“Running a small business makes you realise how important community is.” Here she shares what she loves about being a local and her top recommendations for the area.

Where do you get your morning coffee from?
“For a coffee and a laugh it has to be The French Tarte! Great coffee, excellent patisserie and very entertaining, especially chatting to locals in the queue, there’s always a lot to catch up on. Highly recommend their yummy breakfast.”
The French Tarte, 83 Maple Road
@thefrenchtartesurbiton

Where’s good for a spot of TLC?
“It has to be Archie’s. Extremely laid-back atmosphere with its shabby chic look. If you want a great colour, stylish cut, balayage or highlights, all mixed with a lovely cup of coffee, this is your place to go.”
Hair by Archie’s, 79 Maple Road
archies-surbiton.co.uk

What’s new this season at Shoes at Last?
“We’ve gone bright and cheerful this autumn, from brown being the autumn fashion statement, to russet red, teal blue, bright orange and all shades of glorious pink. Don’t worry there’s a bit of black to keep people happy! The store is certainly worth visiting this season, especially with the lovely festive gifts arriving.”
Shoes at Last, 81 Maple Road
@shoesatlast

Where do you recommend for dinner?
“Gordon Bennett! kitchen and bar. A relaxed place to meet for a tasty burger or tapas and a lovely glass of prosecco.”
Gordon Bennett!, 75 Maple Road
@gordon_bennett_surbiton

Finally, what’s the best thing about Surbiton?
“When you run a small business, you soon realise your local community is essential for your wellbeing. Getting involved and supporting local businesses keeps the community and towns going, which is important for everyone’s health and happiness.There’s a fantastic mix of people in Surbiton, one thing we all have in common is we all love our town.”

Some more places to try…
Surbiton Farmers Market
“If you haven’t visited the award-winning market, then you are missing a treat! Third Saturday of every month, 45 stalls of delicious fresh produce, a charity stall (the market matches their money raised that day) and all the restaurants and bars are open for breakfast and lunch. My go to stalls are: ‘Isle of Wight Tomatoes’ and fresh fish stall ‘Henderson’s’.”
Surbiton Farmers Market, Maple Road
@surbitonfarmersmarket

Service with a smile
“When I visit Mail Boxes Etc, I feel I have walked into an episode of “Open all Hours”, a great place for local information. A fantastic selection of stationery, printing ideas, advice on shipping abroad and the UK. Nothing is too much trouble and all done with a smile.”
Mail Boxes Etc, 61 Victoria Road, KT6 4JX

Tailoring and alterations
“A little shop with a good heart, if you have something to be altered A2Z stitch is the place, a husband and wife team, Shwan and Suzan are experts in tailoring, fittings and alterations, there’s no end to their skills and service, they deliver a brilliant job.”
A2Z Stitch, Oak Lodge, 156A

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January 23, 2025

OUT Recommends – Afrikana

Tantalising African-inspired dishes with an adventurous twist

Amidst the bustle of the Bentall Centre and located on Level 1, Afrikana brings a unique dining experience to Surrey. Blending beats and African-inspired flavours with stylish décor; woven lamps hang overhead while tables are nestled among lush fronds and a striking mural transports you on a sensory adventure before you even take your first bite.

The menu offers a mix of small plates, hearty mains, specials and platters. Start with a crispy, golden treat – Ladies Fingers are deliciously deep-fried, fresh okra, then for a little kick, Let’s Taco ‘Bout It delivers slow-cooked pulled beef marinated to perfection in soft taco shells.

”Dial the spice factor up or down”

For mains, What Cheese Said stands out – a succulent grilled butterfly chicken smothered in melted cheese, served with jollof rice and sweet plantain. With a choice of sauces to satisfy heat seekers, feel free to dial the spice factor up or down. Meat lovers won’t be disappointed with Steak It On Me – a spiced Angus sirloin steak, grilled and basted in Afrikana’s signature glaze. Served with crispy fries, it balances bold and smoky flavours.


Leave room for desserts! Stack it Up is made with indulgent layers of peanut butter crunch, caramel, chocolate brownie, Biscoff and ice cream and Baking My Heart is a classic cheesecake with passion fruit and mango sauce that ends your meal on a refreshingly sweet note.

Afrikana
Bentalls Shopping Centre
Level 1
Kingston upon Thames
KT1 1TP
@arfrikanakitchen

Words by Fatima Truscott

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December 10, 2024

There’s snow place like home

It’s over 2,000 miles to Lapland from Surrey, so instead, we’ve gone in search of the best snow-inspired adventures to be found a little closer to home.

Go in search of Father Christmas
It starts by entering an enchanted forest, while all around snowflakes silently fall. Before you know it, you’ve stepped through a secret doorway to find yourself in the mythical homeland of Father Christmas. Found in Whitmoor Forest, two miles from Ascot train station, Lapland UK creates such a magical world that even adults won’t fail to be transported back to their childhood. The immersive theatrical experience, which lasts for four and a half hours, is rich in storytelling and takes you into a toy factory, an elf village and a maker’s forge (he mends the sleigh). Meanwhile, young and old can decorate gingerbread with Mother Christmas, go ice skating on a frozen pond and write letters with elves. A highlight is greeting the real reindeer before meeting the big man himself. Who said Father Christmas isn’t real?
Portal.laplanduk.co.uk


Watch The Snowman in a cathedral
It may not be snowing inside Guildford Cathedral, but the holy place of worship is bringing the much-loved film, The Snowman, alive this year in a special screening with a live orchestra. Taking place on 14 December, you’ll take your seats inside the lofty space and, as the violins strike up, you’ll watch the iconic Christmas movie on a big screen. Since its release in 1982, The Snowman has become a Christmas classic. The charming story of a Snowman who takes a boy on a magical flight to meet Santa Claus is told without dialogue – through animation and music alone. What’s more, for many, the film’s score, by Howard Blake, is intrinsically linked to Christmas time. As well as a festive introduction to the orchestra and a visit from the Snowman himself, the family-friendly performance will also include an additional short film, which will also be accompanied by orchestral music by some of the UK’s finest musicians. You’ll leave ‘Walking in the Air.’
Guildford-cathedral.org


Get festive amid the fir trees
At Chessington Garden Centre, you can buy your Christmas tree, stock up on new baubles and take the little ones to meet Santa all in one visit. The Christmas store is bursting with even more fairy lights, tinsel and musical decorations than ever before. This year, the shop has also elevated its grotto offering with the creation of a Christmas Wonderland, complete with a woodland walk, snow-topped trees and elves that peek out behind illuminated toadstools. As well as a real-life gingerbread house that you can enter, there is a magical train that gives the illusion that you are travelling through snowy mountain vistas and past traditional villages. At the cobblestone-lined Christmas Village, you can watch elves create toys and then it’s on to Santa’s Workshop and time for children to request their wishes to Santa himself. It is an interactive experience that brings the magic of the holidays alive. Make a pit-stop in the festive shop, and you might be able to finish off your Christmas shopping, too.
Chessingtongardencentre.co.uk


Ski off in Surrey
It might be lacking the essential ingredient of snow, but at least at the Ski School at The Oakwood, part of Sandown Sports’ offering, you can get your practice in before hitting the real pistes. Launched in 1974, the dry ski facility offers two purpose-built dry slopes, including a 200m main slope with ramps, and a dedicated nursery incline. There is private ski coaching available as well as courses for beginners. It’s the perfect activity for blowing away the cobwebs on a winter’s day and for those wanting to sharpen up their technique before a skiing holiday. After a day whooshing down the mountain, you can also head to The Lookout, a restaurant and bar found in a woodland setting (it’s a local take on après ski). When the weather is good, tuck into al fresco dining on the deck with views over the Surrey countryside.
Theoakwood.com


Play in the snow
Found in central London, Hamley’s toy shop on Regent Street does not offer the most sedate, winter-time scenes you might imagine. But it is a sure bet if you want to find a flurry of snow – even if it might be fake. During its busiest time of year, the store is known for its extravagant countdown to the big day – from the fake snow that cascades on to the pavement to seasonal pop ups and shelves full of must-have gifts for children, including the ‘magical snow’ which allows you to make your own icy powder at home. For pre-schoolers, don’t forget to book the revamped Santa’s Grotto experience.
Hamleys.com


Warble a White Christmas
Whether you want to meet up for festive drinks with friends or have a family reunion over a traditional roast, the Runnymede on Thames is truly capturing a singalong spirit of Christmas this year. As well as festive menus and themed cocktails, the riverside hotel has a calendar of musical events to see you humming into the New Year. Craig Charles ‘Funk and Soul House Party (29 November – 2 December) guarantees old-school floor-fillers for those wanting to shake a leg; while Gareth Malone’s Christmas Playlist (13-16 December) will see the nation’s ‘Choirmaster in Chief’ perform Christmas hits such as
All I Want for Christmas and White Christmas. All together now.
Warnerleisurehotels.co.uk

Words: Angelina Villa-Clarke

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November 25, 2024

Awkwardly adulting

Local writer Kim Hawley is back to share her festive musings, mishaps and (all-too-familiar) fond family memories…

“Twas the night before Christmas… and our dog was hooked to an IV at the emergency vets after having consumed a box of dark chocolate festive delights. The classy confectionery was not in agreement with his delicate canine constitution. 

I was unsure what was upsetting me most; the sight of my poor pooch in such a miserable state, the minor issue of the illegally high fees that were stacking up by the minute or the fact that it was Christmas Eve and the timing was crackers! 

Usually at that point on the 24th, I’d be knee-deep in wrapping paper and ribbons attempting to summon my inner Kirstie Allsop while happily ignoring that kernel of discontent that questioned the pointlessness of this task because everyone now tells you what they want to receive in advance on this Most Special Day via helpful weblinks to the product itself – so the ‘Surprise!’ element is most definitely lost. 

Opening Christmas presents was a genuine delight when we were younger because we had no clue what lay beneath that tantalisingly wafer-thin wrapping paper. However vile the perfume, it would be used. No matter how hideous the hand knitted jumper, it would be worn. Regifting? When did that start? 

And don’t get me started on the Christmas stocking! That now costs more than the presents alone! 

One of my fondest memories was when the Christmas edition of the TV Times arrived. It was a real moment.  We would read out the listings with rapt delight, scheduling which movies to watch and when but now with festive movies ‘on demand’ 24/7, 365 days a year *eye rolls, seriously, who wants to watch Elf in August? Where’s the joy in that? 

Said ‘joy’ started to disappear early for me – 2003 to be exact. My six-year-old son queried why Santa didn’t visit starving children in Africa (that I kept insisting his discarded veg could go to) and take them food and maybe, oh, I don’t know… a home? I couldn’t sustain the lie any longer and instead, collapsed like a pack of cards. The magic of Christmas at that point onwards felt little more than a cheap parlour trick. 

I want to enjoy these moments but they get trampled on from all angles. Selection boxes being stocked in September, Easter eggs by Boxing Day. The list is endless.

Gone are the highly flammable foil festoons sellotaped to the ceiling, now it’s all colour-themed baubles and coordinated family Pjs with a matching pair for the designer Pugapoo.

My dog? Well, fortunately, little Deefur came round from his canine coma and I managed to get him home in time to take the turkey out of the freezer. Actually, as it turns out, I wasn’t in time but that’s another story for another day. Suffice to say, if everyone’s drunk enough, sausages are still perfectly plausible to serve on the 25th December.”

Illustration by Tom Hubmann

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November 19, 2024

Page Turners

From tales of real-life heroes to festive kids’ fiction, the Regency Bookshop, Surbiton, recommends their top five reads this winter including some signed copies you can find in store. Treat yourself, or get another gift ticked off the list!


Precipice
by Robert Harris

1914: Journey to the eve of the most devastating war of the century and immerse yourself in a tale of political intrigue, sexual obsession and a threat to national security. Harris once again delivers a thrilling punch in Precipice. Exclusive Independent Bookshop signed editions in stock.


The Siege
by Ben Macintyre

Six days that gripped the nation and established the SAS as heroes. With all the meticulous research and swash-buckling detail we have come to expect from bestselling historian Ben Macintyre. This is the inside story of all the players in this incredible tale. Signed copies in stock.


Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent
by Judi Dench

Our finest actor on our finest playwright. Judi takes us on a personal journey of her relationship with Mr William Shakespeare. Sharing secrets from behind the scenes during her seven-decade career, inviting us into this fascinating world. Clever and funny, an absolute delight!


What I Ate in One Year (and related thoughts)
by Stanley Tucci

With his dry wit and sharp observations, the delicious Stanley Tucci tantalises us with this personal food diary. Enjoy it yourself with a martini in your hand or treat the foodie in your life! Signed copies in stock.


The Christmasaurus and the Night Before Christmas
by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Shane Devries

Embrace the magic of Christmas as the Christmasaurus returns in another beautifully illustrated adventure. An uplifting message told in rhythm and rhyme, we learn that the true spirit of the season comes from the unique sparkle in each and every one of us.


The Regency Bookshop (est. 1962) is a popular independent in Surbiton. “Our traditional regency window entices readers into our tardis-like shop which is brimming with books, beautiful cards, jigsaws and toys. We love putting books in to the hands of budding new readers!” says owner, Pat Freestone-Bayes.

regencybookshop.com
@regencybookshop
Regency Bookshop, 45 Victoria Road, Surbiton, KT6 4JL

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November 18, 2024

Cheers to the Magic

Busy season brings busy people and we’re celebrating those individuals in our community who’ll be working behind-the-scenes to bring the magic to all. From choir singers, to hotel manager, school fundraisers and party planning, these folk are all about spreading joy and good energy.

Jack Stones, 36, is the Pub Landlord for The Spring Grove in Kingston and has been in hospitality for 15 years.

My team and I do it all
From taking bookings, to delivery of beer. Pouring pints to pouring gravy. It ramps up a bit as we get closer to the big day, it’s a case of doing a bit of party Tetris to fit everyone in and making sure they’re happy. It’s loud, warm, busy and fun!

We start preparing in June!
I look forward to seeing the diary fill up with events, the Christmas parties have different requests so always lots to look forward to. Once the dust settles in January, we have our staff Christmas party and make sure everybody gets bought plenty of beers as a thank you for working so hard in December.

Hospitality can be very stressful
Unless you’ve been through something worse. If you see a very calm manager in the midst of an incredibly busy pub you know they’ve got some serious war stories. I ran nightclubs for years and got some pretty gnarly ones.

Looking after people is an important part of what I do
Christmas is a stressful time if you’re a host, we can make that disappear, creating a home away from home where you can properly relax, hang out with friends and not worry about the clear up afterwards.

thespringgrove.co.uk
@thespringgrove


Desirée Harris, 46, is a horticulturalist, Mum, PTA parent, face painter and netball coach. She wears many hats, but her favourite has to be her Christmas one.


I have always loved Christmas
I’m known as ‘Mrs Christmas’ by the PTA at my school. I find bringing the magic to family, friends and the community so rewarding. Over the years I’ve organised wreath workshops, shopping evenings, community light switch on and been head elf gift wrapper. The PTA have a blast and it brings lots of cheer.

I look at Pinterest for decorating ideas
Once Halloween is over, my 20 boxes of Christmas decorations come out of the loft and I collect my fresh Nordmann Fir as soon as it’s available. I then start decorating the whole house, in sections! I love seeing the smiles of the children’s friends that come to visit.

Day to day I transform my clients’ gardens and pots
I love to plant these with berries and Christmas colours ready for the season, harvesting all I can (like hydrangea and thistle heads) for the wreath workshops. Although, if it’s raining or I’m sick I switch on the Christmas channel while I do housework. I secretly watch Christmas movies all year round!

Christmas Day we always have an open house
With friends and family joining us, Boxing Day is the same, we play lots of games. NYE we have an early party so the kids can join in, then once they’re in bed my husband and I watch the fireworks on TV in peace, ready for the New Year to bring us renewed health.

@thebloomdoctor


Karla Goodman, 41, and her Dad, Bryan Goodman sing for Singology, a local community choir with groups across London, including Wimbledon and Thames Ditton.

We try to spread joy whenever we can
We’ve livened commutes at train stations, taken the stress out of shopping at Christmas markets, merrily cheered members of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and always hold a special concert in the church where we rehearse. Our greatest honour was to have sung for the Queen back in 2021.

We know Christmas isn’t an easy time for everyone
To find time to connect and bring even brief moments of comfort and joy during this time is really important to us. The sense of achievement we get from singing with and for others while hopefully inspiring people to consider joining a choir is such a privilege.

It’s indescribable the feeling when all the parts and harmonies come together
As a group, we draw inspiration and confidence from each other and as father and daughter, singing together is our dedicated time together, it brings us so much happiness. Whenever we can, we always prioritise this, even when things get busy. Sometimes you’ve got to slow down to speed up.

singologychoir.com
@singologychoir


Vinny Freulon, 44, is the General Manager of boutique hotel, The Mitre, next to Hampton Court Palace.

\It’s all about a strong briefing and big smiles
I have worked in this industry for 28 years. Christmas, when you work in hospitality, is just another day, there is a little more pressure, but as long as you’re fully prepared there’s not reason to worry.Planning for the festive period starts in April so it’s very much an all-year-round project.

I look forward to delivering the best experience
From making sure the venue looks its absolute best, to making guests feel completely at home. It’s exciting, magical, rewarding and exhausting! But there’s nothing better than waving happy guests goodbye on Boxing Day or receiving an email of thanks after their stay to share with the team.

I’ll be wrapping presents while watching Love Actually
On Christmas morning I’ll wish my little boy a Merry Christmas and open presents with him (making him smile is my favourite thing). I’ll then spend the day with the team. As for NYE, I will be working but it’s always such a great celebratory atmosphere here at The Mitre.

mitrehamptoncourt.com
@mitrehamptoncourt

Words by Daniella Matier, Photography by Jayne Saunderson

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November 18, 2024

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. Angelina Villa-Clarke finds gentle ways to lean into the season ahead with some comforting activities that are good for the soul.

Embrace Nature: Forest bathing, Winkworth Arboretum, Godalming

Created over 80 years ago by horticulturalist Dr Wilfrid Fox, Winkworth Arboretum is a glorious celebration of trees. Part of the National Trust since 1988, it covers 121 acres and is made up of 1,000 trees and shrubs. A peaceful place for a winter stroll, there is a choice of three walking routes to follow, in the fresh air amid wellbeing-boosting nature. Forest bathing – or spending time in nature – is rooted in the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku and studies have shown that it boosts the immune system, lowers your blood pressure and helps with anxiety. Also on offer are guided walks to learn more about the plants, a scenic lake and tea room – essential for refuelling on a cold day. Watch out for the new visitor centre which is due to open in 2025.

Nationaltrust.org.uk

Image credit: National Trust Images/John Miller


Get Creative: Art Workshop, Surrey Art School, Dorking

Inspired by nature and the changing seasons, Surrey Art School offers a whole line-up of mindful workshops for all abilities. For winter, founder Ellie Green is offering private art classes in her picturesque studio. You’ll spend the time, paintbrush in hand, overlooking a farm tucked away in the Surrey Hills. As well as botanical painting and lino printing, you’ll also be taught how to make your own beautifully-executed Christmas cards and tags – perfect to impress your loved ones this year. You can book one-to-one classes or grab some friends and make it a festive event to remember. From mid-November onwards, Ellie is also running an artistic retreat at the Sussex Country Yurt, which will focus on the Yew tree. Activities include watercolour painting and learning about plant medicine.

Surreyartschool.com


Close Your Eyes: Sleep Retreat, Pennyhill Park, Bagshot

Designed to reset your circadian rhythm, the Pro-Sleep Spa Retreat is a one-night, holistic experience created for guests to return home with a renewed sense of deep calm. Check-in to the 19th-century manor house-hotel and straight to the award-winning spa, which features a ballroom pool with underwater music, an outdoor hydrotherapy pool and wild swimming pool. As part of the programme, you’ll be drifting off with an 80-minute Tranquility Sleep Treatment, using Ayurvedic massage techniques, essential oils and a specially curated soothing soundscape. Guests will also find special amenities in their rooms, including Sleep Well Tea, magnesium water from OHMG Water to ease stress and snooze-inducing treats from Comfort Zone’s Tranquillity Line.

Exclusive.co.uk


Look Up: Full Moon Circle, The Yurt, Warnham

A moon circle aims to connect you with the powerful lunar cycle and help you understand more about the impact of the full moon on your moods and energy. This season, yoga instructor and wellbeing guide, Amy Miller, will hold two events (14 November and 16 December) to harness the transformative power of the moon. The relaxing evening event includes gentle yoga, gratitude meditation and crystal work. The aim, she says, is to leave feeling calm and free of anything that has been troubling you. Bring cushions, blankets and prepare to go deep.

Amymilleryogaandwellbeing.co.uk


Turn The Pages: Walk a Book, Regents Park

Emily’s Walking Book Club was launched by writer Emily Rhodes in 2012 and it’s still going strong. With a global community of over 2,500 members, a group of friendly book-lovers meet and walk across Hampstead Heath or Regent’s Park, discussing a chosen book as they stroll. Coming up is The Past is Myself by Christabel Bielenberg (various dates in November) and Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (various dates in December). If you can’t make the walk, there are zoom chats to join instead. “It’s much
easier to talk while walking,” says Emily. “The rhythm of it loosens your thoughts and your tongue, too. Also, you’re perhaps looking around at the landscape, rather than making stressful eye-contact.”

Emilyrhodeswriter.com


Escape for the Night: A rural staycation, The Piggery, Horsham

Sometimes you just need a break from the humdrum of life and The Piggery at John Bull’s House in Horsham is the perfect escape. The cosy cottage is big enough for two and is found in a rural location at the foot of the South Downs National Park. The converted farm building features comfy sofas which are perfect for curling up and reading, a state-of-the-art kitchen for hearty feasts and a king-sized bed dressed in Egyptian cotton linens for early nights. Outside is a wood-fired Scandi hot-tub – just the thing for stargazing on a winter’s night. You can also book uber-relaxing massages to make for the ultimate escapist experience.

www.classic.co.uk


From Scalp to Soul: Japanese Headspa, Epsom

Reset and unwind with a soothing Japanese Head Spa at Carley Bayne Hair. An expert in scalp health and rejuvenating treatments, the session starts with an in-depth analysis using a magnifying camera – for a bespoke experience. Using Oway products – an eco-friendly Italian hair care line known for its biodynamic farming and chemical-free ingredients – every treatment is luxurious and sustainable. Benefits include improving blood circulation through specialised massage techniques, detoxifying your scalp by removing impurities and buildup and you can add on a holistic facial or Reiki too. The perfect way to melt away seasonal stress and boost overall well-being.

www.carleybaynehair.com

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October 22, 2024

Hyo the Hellmaker

We spoke to British-Japanese author and illustrator Mina Ikemoto Ghosh about her debut, young adult, fantasy novel, Hyo the Hellmaker.

What inspired you to start writing, and how did you find your voice as an author?
“I discovered J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings when I was 9 and figured it couldn’t be that hard to write if this bloke managed all those pages without a single shapeshifting unicorn girl! No unicorn girls in my debut though (forgive me, inner child).”

Can you share your process for developing characters and plots?
“I’m quite visual, so I imagined one scene from a later chapter first, then the worldbuilding, then thought of the best characters to explore the world. Plot followed from characters.”

Do you get writer’s block?
“I’m not sure about any specific writer’s block, as opposed to just being stuck – as happens in any job – but as a writer you’re just very alone with how stuck you are. My solution is, grit your teeth and write. Slowly.”

What has been your most rewarding experience as an author so far?
“Getting to know all the other writers I’ve met along the way and having lots to celebrate with their milestones – signing with an agent, deal announcements, manuscript hand-ins, launches, there are so many excuses to say ‘congratulations’.”

“Find your weird. Write with heart.”

Mina Ikemoto Ghosh

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October 15, 2024

Your go-to guide for Thames Ditton

Megan Warrington, owner of local business, Denny’s Books says, “We’re a family-run business selling books, cards and gifts. We’re a small business but a big part of the community.” Here she shares her favourite places to explore in the area.

Where do you get your morning coffee from?
“La Fontana is a fantastic Italian cafe, they have delicious coffee and is run by the friendliest ladies, it’s always busy and has a great ‘buzzy’ atmosphere. They also have a pizza hatch that makes the best pizza and is well worth a visit!”
53 High St, Thames Ditton, KT7 0SF
@lafontanacafe

Village highlight
“I personally enjoy walking by the river near The Albany, there’s a small stretch of grass opposite Hampton Court Palace and is a bit of a hidden gem, it’s great for walking dogs or sunbathing.”

A bite to eat
“Nice Buns has a great menu for breakfast and lunch, and a lovely little courtyard at the back which is a great sun trap, lovely for eating and relaxing alfresco.”
48 High St, Thames Ditton, KT7 0SA
@cafenicebuns

Treat yourself
“Little Foray is my favourite hairdressers, they also offer a wide range of beauty and skin treatments, and is the best place to go for a pamper session. The staff feel like old friends and I always come out feeling lighter after a session there!”
57 High St, Thames Ditton, KT7 0SF
@littleforay

All about community
The Thames Ditton Foundation (founded in 2012), supports the high street in various ways from making the high street look pretty to commemorate national events, to planting beautiful flowers at Thames Ditton Station. They have some great initiatives, such as supporting East Elmbridge Food Bank, Elmbridge CAN (offering refugee support) and Elmbridge Rentstart (helping the homeless and those vulnerably housed).

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October 3, 2024

Play with Purpose

Celebrating local communities through creativity

The Community Brain are a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to bringing people and communities together to enjoy their local space and engage with those within it.
We spoke with Dr Robin Hutchinson MBE, Director of TCB, about how their projects and events are re-igniting the local area and empowering individuals with their inclusive, ‘everyone and anyone is welcome’ approach.

Passion for people

“Everybody is brilliant if they’re given the help and support to be brilliant,” says Robin explaining the principle behind TCB. “It all started with what we categorise as ‘playgrounds for adults’, making events and spaces that allow people to reconnect and recharge. We wanted people to smile”.

Location, location, location

“We discovered that when you asked people what they like about Surbiton, they’d say, ‘Oh it’s great, only 16 minutes from London, only 16 minutes from the countryside…’ and it struck us that if someone describes where they live by the speed you can leave it, there’s something a bit odd there!” Events such as the popular Seething Festival, Surbiton Ski Sunday and the most recent (and hugely successful) Mini Cooper Procession have all been key to bringing people together and making connections in a space they feel at home.

Supporting those in crisis

TCB not only want to bring joy and play to the community, but provide practical help to those who need it. “Due to Covid, the cost of living, food poverty, there are many communities unsupported. Some of our work is now diverted to how we can support community fridges, offer cooking facilities, and teach cookery, not only to locals but refugees with no access to these facilities.”

Who can get involved?

“Anyone who feels they want to play, or belong somewhere. We’re involved with Kingston College and the Uni, so we have lots of young and mature volunteers who work side by side and that’s so important. That’s what a community should look like.”

Rewilding Tolworth Court Farm

One of the next projects in motion for TCB is the rewilding project of the largest nature reserve in the borough. Working with Kingston Council and Citizen Zoo, the plans are to introduce a small number of free roaming livestock to the area to encourage the natural regeneration of trees and shrubs. “The idea is to respect it as a place of nature but allow people to be a part of that nature” says Robin.

For more info about TCB upcoming projects and how you could be involved email contact@thecommunitybrain.org or follow on Instagram @communitybrain

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