Category: Days Out

Beauty & the Beast – The Grand Theatre Blackpool

Children, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for children, Theatre

It’s December and the panto season is in full swing and there’s nowhere better to soak up this Christmas tradition than in Blackpool. Nothing says festive fun quite like a good old-fashioned pantomime, and in Blackpool, where the humour is gloriously cheeky and the double entendres glide in quicker than a seagull after chips – it’s family entertainment at its finest.

Betty Legs Diamond, the original Funny Girl herself, strides on as Dame Polly La Plonk, resplendent, outrageous and armed with a wicked glint that suggests she could reduce a grown man to helpless giggles with nothing more than a raised eyebrow.

Belle, played by Kitty Harris is exactly how a fairytale princess should be. She’s beautiful and kind and you can easily see that she sees past the horns, fur and claws to spot the prince within.

Leading the all-star cast is Coronation Street baddie Marc Baylis as Hugo Pompidou. He strides across the stage with the perfect mix of danger, drama and irresistible charm, making it impossible not to boo the moment he appears.

Photo credit © Blackpool Grand Theatre | Photography Martin Bostock

But the real heart of a Grand Theatre panto is, as ever, Steve Royle. Having earned the title of the UK Pantomime Awards’ Best Comic, he bounds onto the stage like a child who’s had too many fizzy drinks. His energy, perfectly timed slapstick and razor-sharp adlibs had the audience in stitches from the moment he appeared on stage.  

Photo credit © Blackpool Grand Theatre | Photography Martin Bostock

The costumes this year are an explosion of colour, big, bold and bursting with personality. The Beast’s costume is particularly impressive and with his swishing cloak he cuts quite the imposing figure. The transformations from prince to beast and back again are especially impressive, they are so quick that you half expect to find Doctor Who lurking in the wings with a malfunctioning time vortex! Maybe one to include next year!!  Elsewhere, the French theme justifies a profusion of red, white and blue. The dancers seem to have a new outfit for every scene, while Dame Polly’s costumes… well, let’s just say they’re that little bit more daring. Would we expect anything less?

The show is peppered with brilliant scenes, from classics like the Ghostbusters routine to wonderfully funny adlibs when the balloon scene went deliciously off-script.

Photo credit © Blackpool Grand Theatre | Photography Martin Bostock

Choreographed by Katie Hill, the talented dancers from The Barbara Jackson’s Theatre Arts Centre were excellent, wowing the audience with a variety of different dance styles. We especially enjoyed the Can Can which added a typical French flourish to the show.

Beauty and the Beast runs until Sunday 4th January, giving you plenty of time to catch this magical, laugh-out-loud production. If you love pantomime – and honestly, who doesn’t at Christmas? – this is one you absolutely won’t want to miss.

Tickets start from £15 and are available from The Grand Theatre here

Photo credit © Blackpool Grand Theatre | Photography Martin Bostock

Vivat Bacchus Restaurant, London

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Restaurant, Winter

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Tucked behind the Hays Galleria in London Bridge, Vivat Bacchus is a traditional steakhouse which serves South African dishes, cooked in the traditional South African style. This branch of Vivat Bacchus also contains an extensive wine cellar, which of course stocks South African wine, but there’s also something called a Cheese Room – yes, a room full of just cheese!  We visited on a miserable evening before Christmas to sample the best South Africa has to offer.

The menu is not just African food, but contains well known dishes such as burgers, sea bream and steaks but some of the ingredients, like Springbok, aren’t what you would usually find elsewhere!  Some of the spices are different too, and the cooking methods aren’t what we’re used to in the UK. However, this was a pleasant surprise as it’s nicely removed from the usual pizza places and fast food joints that are everywhere now, and the price of a pizza isn’t far off the price of the main meals at Vivat Baccus, plus you get more for your money here as the portion sizes are pretty huge!

We started with the Smoked Snoek and Pap Fishcake and 3 Sosaties – a dish of three mini kebabs of chicken, lamb and Boerewors served with baked apricots, pepper and onions.  These were delicious little treats, with an oil sauce that brought out the flavour and made a nice change to the usual starters. The Smoked Snoek and Pap Fishcakes are obviously made with fish found in South Africa and not our usual British waters, so the flavour of these was a gorgeous surprise. We were also given a baked corn bread as a starter, which came in a piping hot skillet as an accompaniment.

For mains, we ordered the Pork Belly (my favourite!) and a side of creamed spinach, and Vivat Bacchus’ famous beef burger with fries. The beef burger was enormous; with a salad and the chunkiest chips I’ve ever seen! There was so much there, we could hardly touch the side salad. The Pork Belly comes with a delicious Rainbow Coleslaw which has a slightly tangy dressing to counter the pork belly savoury taste. The Pork Belly was divine… a descent slab of meat, cooked until tender and soft enough to be pulled apart, with a seasoned crackling on top which was very easy to cut through, unlike some arrangements. This was perhaps the best Pork Belly dish I’ve ever had, thanks to the seasoning and the tenderness of the meat through the cooking process.

We were then treated to dessert.  Much like the rest of the menu, the desserts are a South African twist on the usual staples but there are also so completely unique items.  I tried the Crisp Peppermint Tart, which sounded like nothing else I’d heard of before.  A huge dish of cake was brought out to me and I was asked how much I wanted, which was a really nice touch when you’re completely full! Of course, I was given far more than I expected which I took to be part of the African hospitality.

The Crisp Peppermint Tart is a layered dessert with sponge, a mascarpone-type filling and peppermint on top. There’s crisp biscuits lining the top of the pudding too, giving it a juxtaposition of textures. This was divine! I really loved the peppermint flavouring after such a heavy meal, and the mascarpone filling was bubbly and light, making it easier to digest. The sponge was also firm enough to call a proper dessert in itself – think Tiramisu but with peppermint on top and sprinklings of chocolate and biscuit. This is one that I want to make for myself at home!

We didn’t venture too far into after dinner dessert wines or the extensive wines they have on site, but we did have the South African version of Champagne – a sparkling white wine with bubbles and a touch of acidity.

There’s a great atmosphere in the restaurant with wooden floor, chairs and tables, which I don’t think is particularly South African but the wine cellars and bottle presentation boxes are. It can get quite noise in there with the low ceilings and I noticed that there were a lot of couples at tables rather than bigger gatherings but that might just be because it was a Monday night. Incidentally, they do 2-for-1 on burgers on a Monday night too, which might explain how busy they are!

Having never been to any of the Vivat Bacchus restaurants before (there is another one in Farringdon) I was more than pleasantly surprised by the choice on offer, and with how removed it is from the usual chain restaurants on the market. The food was excellent, the wine was equally as good and the staff looked after us. In answer to your question, no, I did not manage to finish the Crisp Peppermint Tart in the end – maybe next time!

https://www.vivatbacchus.co.uk/london-bridge

https://www.vivatbacchus.co.uk/farringdon

Emerald Storm at the Emerald Theatre, London

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Days Out, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Theatre

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Hailed as the 21st Century’s answer to Riverdance, the Emerald Storm production by Adam Garcia returns to the West End again, and this time at the Emerald Theatre.

A fusion of Irish dancing, tap dance and urban street dance, the story is brought to audiences by The Boss, played by Tom Ball. A singer in a cabaret show, The Boss punctuates the story as Irish dancers take the stage, The Boss sings, and the immersive theatre happens around you. Watch out for the Mop Boy at this point… then the dancers blend away as tap dancers take the stage and finally singers take on the harmonies as they all take it in turn to bring the dance experience to you.

Every song in this musical extravaganza is accompanied by dance.  The theatre is a cabaret-style, two tier theatre with cocktail tables, several bars and sofa seating to sit back and relax. There are actors walking around before and after the show, who then appear on stage as part of the story.  Not only does Tom Ball need a shout-out for his talent, but principal dancers Olivia Graydon (Irish dancing) Bayley. Graham (tap) and Matt Walker (Mop Boy) also feature heavily in the dancing as well as the interactivity. There’s lots of stomping, clapping, audience echoing and the main show is book-ended with a house band to open, and audience tap dancing on stage afterwards.

There’s a fabulous energy to the show and lots of smiles – genuine smiles between the performers who all hail from performing schools across the country.  The mix of different dance styles is really engaging and is heightened by some fabulous singers and cheeky to-and-fro between the cast and the floor.

It’s an energetic night out with lots of uplifting dance and music, close up and in a cocktail evening style that you don’t get in many places across London nowadays. Magnificent! 

https://www.emeraldstorm.net

A Fairytale for Christmas at the Dominion Theatre, London

Children, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for children, Theatre, Winter

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Kick start Christmas with an Irish-themed song and dance spectacular in London’s West End! We were lucky enough to see the show live and experience the entertainment of Irish dancing, Christmas classics, live music and a few Christmas jokes in between! 

Starting the show with an Irish band of banjo, violin and guitar, we are introduced to the 6 Irish dancers who accompany the 130 minute long show.  Shane is our main compere and brings us to the show, starting in New York with a lean towards an Irish Christmas tale. We meet the six Irish dancers early on and are treated to a Riverdance-style performance with songs such as Santa Claus is Comin’ To Town, Step Into Christmas and some traditional songs such as Oh Danny Boy, O Holy Night and old-fashioned Irish songs like The Galway Girl, The Irish Rover and Dirty Old Town.

The band are phenomenal and take on the title of ‘house band’ with pride as we’re treated to great live music thanks to Shane Morgan (vocals), Oliver Cave (vocals and guitar), Peet Jackson (banjo), Molly Farmer (vocals) and Caitlin Forbes (Violin).  The show finishes with some chart hits of yesterday such as the famous Fairytale of New York by The Pogues. The show ends with an Irish St Patrick’s Day party where everyone is on their feet, singing and dancing to the songs of A Fairytale for Christmas. A fabulous show for the whole family.

Salomé by Oscar Wilde – Theatre Royal Haymarket, London

Days Out, Theatre, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Wow. Oscar Wilde’s Salomé is probably one of his least known plays (Lady Windermere’s Fan, An Ideal Husband) but was actually one of his biggest grossing and most controversial. The Gesher Theatre Repertoire take this production stratospheric with their portrayal of the Biblical story in an amazing, West End production.

The story of Salomé is easy to follow despite the dialogue being over 100 years old. Salomé (Neta Roth) is the stepdaughter of King Herod (Doron Tavori), who is married to her mother (Lena Fraifeld). Jon the Baptist (Shir Sayag) is referred to as Jokanaan in the play, and is imprisoned by Herod for Jokanaan’s comments about Herod’s wife, Herodias.  Herodias. Thinks nothing of Jokanaan, but her daughter Salomé is obsessed by his voice and wants to meet him. Her obsession grows, and she wants to touch him and kiss his mouth but Jokanaan, believing she is the “daughter of Sodam” tells her to stay away from him and that she will never kiss him.

Herod becomes infatuated with Salomé and begs her to dance for him, exclaiming that she can have anything in his kingdom if she does so. Herodias begs her daughter not to dance for her husband, but eventually, Salomé dances the dance of the seven veils for her stepfather.  In return, she tells him only after he has sworn on oath to give her anything, that she wants, “The head of Jokanaan on a silver platter.” The discussion goes on for some time as Herod offers her anything but the death of John the Baptist, as Herod is fearful of what may happen if he kills a prophet. He eventually relents though, and Salomé gets her wish.

I won’t give away the ending but let’s say it’s fitting, and very dramatic.

The creative production of this play is beyond amazing. Based on the troubles in the Middle East, there isn’t a corner spared which hasn’t been thought out carefully. You forget that this play is 125+ years old as the costumes, stage scenery and acting are exemplary.  I cannot over emphasise how good the acting is in this production, especially Neta Roth and Doron Davori, who create the most amazing energy and Roth especially, who is in nearly every scene of the one-act play, has a talent you only see in the West End. I also need to pay respect to Shir Sayag who plays John the Baptist. The scenes where he is captive and then again when Salomé meets him face-to-face are astonishing. 

I came away from the play with a new found respect for Wilde, but this production takes it to a whole new place. It’s a very thought provoking, modern take on an ancient story but an exceptionally well written Oscar Wilde play. I could go back several times and see this production, for the creative freshness it brings but the outstanding cast and their interpretation of the story, it left me in awe. Exceptional! 

Salome runs at The Theatre Royal Haymarket until 11 October. Details and tickets: https://trh.co.uk/whatson/salome/

The Shawshank Redemption – The Grand Theatre Blackpool

Days Out, Theatre

Disclaimer: We received free tickets to the show for the purpose of this review but all thoughts  and opinions are our own. 

Based on a Stephen King short story, The Shawshank Redemption soon became a classic following the 1994 film which starred Tim Robbins as Andy and Morgan Freeman as Red. We went to Blackpool’s Grand Theatre last night to see the stage adaptation, cleverly adapted by Owen O’Neill and Dave Johns and directed by David Esbjornson and I’m pleased to say that it didn’t disappoint and was just as gripping and powerful as the original film was.

If you’re not familiar with the story it is about Andy Dufresne (Joe McFadden), a quiet banker convicted of murdering his wife and her lover. Despite protesting his innocence, he is sentenced to two life term sentences and sent to Shawshank State Penitentiary. There, he befriends long-term inmate Ellis “Red” Redding (Ben Onwukwe), the prison fixer who can get hold of almost anything. Red guides Andy through the harsh reality of prison life – beatings, corruption and violence,  brutally inflicted by both guards and inmates. When the corrupt Warden Stammas (Bill Ward) discovers Andy’s talent for numbers he exploits his accountancy skills for his own benefit.

Bringing such a tough story to the stage is no easy task – the story includes violence, a gang rape and murder but whilst alluded to on stage it is very much played down in this production and the notorious attack by “the Sisters,” is sensitively done but still carries a powerful punch.

We were really impressed with the set, shabby prison walls and clever lighting create a strong sense of claustrophobia, drawing the audience into Shawshank’s oppressive world. Scene changes are seamless, and music is used to mark the passage of nearly twenty years.

Performances across the twelve-strong, all-male cast are excellent with Joe McFadden capturing  Andy’s quiet resilience whilst portraying a man who refuses to give up hope despite impossible odds. Ward slips with ease into the skin of the vile Warden Stammas but it is Onwukwe who really stands out – also acting as narrator, pulling the story together with warmth and humour, despite the tough storyline.  

We really enjoyed the show and judging by the standing ovation at the end of the performance, the rest of the audience did too! The Shawshank Redemption runs at The Grand Theatre, Blackpool until Saturday 27 September, and it’s a production I’d highly recommend – whether you know the story already or are new to it.  

Tickets are available from £15 with concessions for 1894 Club members and Friends of The Grand. Group rates are also available.

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk for full listings, bookings and further information.

SEA LIFE Aquarium London

Birthday Gifts, Children, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for children, Summer

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

When it comes to summer holidays, the weather is always better the week before children break up from school, making it difficult to book things to do! The SEA LIFE Aquarium London is the safest bet yet for planning as it’s completely indoors and therefore weatherproof!

Located on the South Bank, in the old County Hall building and next to The London Eye (giant ferris wheel) there is plenty to do in the area.  Book tickets to SEA LIFE Aquarium online and you can reserve your entrance time and plan your day ahead, including transport.

The SEA LIFE Aquarium starts with the Atlantic section. There are more than 10 sections throughout the aquarium including Antarctica and Rainforests, acting as a tour around the world via aquatic life.  The aquarium follows a path where you meet fish and sea creatures in different tanks with informative digital displays that tell you the fish contained within the tank as well as information about their habitat and how endangered they are. There are all sorts of fish, star fish, lobsters and other animals to look at which the children found fascinating and there was certainly something for everybody. You can read as much or as little about the species as you like, or just watch them swim around. Photos are also possible.

As you travel round more tanks, you come to the main attraction of the underwater exhibition – a huge tank containing sharks, turtles and stingray!  There are ample windows around the tank and seating points for small children as well as adults to be able to sit and watch, or in the case of most children, to sit and point at the animals. The sharks are seriously impressive due to their size and their elegance but the turtles are huge, and look just like Crush in Finding Nemo! The stingray and turtles swim around and come up to the glass to ‘greet’ onlookers which makes for some fabulous photos. Some of the sharks swim too, but there are a couple of basking sharks at the bottom of the tank which you can see up close.

Walking around the rest of the exhibitions, there’s an area with Ben Fogel talking about the habitats of the rainforest, an area of rockpools where you can touch shark eggs and star fish and learn about their lifecycles from a member of staff. We loved hearing about how the turtles in the main display were rescued from a turtle farm and brought to London and got to see a real turtle shell, its skeleton and be able to touch it.

The displays are interspersed with different types of interactions, professional photos, a virtual reality lab and activities for children of all ages. We saw babies being carried forward facing so that they could look into the tanks and toddlers being able to watch the motion of the fish for what must have seemed like hours to them!

For both adults and children, the best display has to be the penguins. A large pool with an equally large area of hardstanding behind big glass walls houses the penguin colony who were entertaining and inquisitive. They didn’t seem to mind the number of people watching them and seemed genuinely nosy and came face-to-face with the public with no fear. We watched for ages as they did dove into the pool, swam for fun, swam for hunting and then hopped out of the water onto the ground. There’s ice being churned out all the time to keep them cool and the viewing window (a globe above ground where children can stand and watch them) was especially good fun. The children loved the antics of the penguins and how close they could get to them and we loved watching them. I could sit there for hours! 

Before finishing, you go through a sea of jellyfish too, which were magical and fascinated the smaller children with their illuminous properties. The SEA LIFE Aquarium finished with a huge gift shop selling all sorts of soft toys, mugs and keyrings as well as more for the grown-ups. You can purchase the photos at this stage too before walking out to South Bank where you are right next to the London Eye and Shrek’s Adventure.

It took us about 2 hours to walk round the whole exhibition with stopping to see the fish in each display, taking photos and roughly reading the information boards. By the end of the day, we were buzzing from all the sights and sounds of the aquarium and being able to see animals and fish we would never usually get to see in London. It’s a fabulous day out!

Tickets available online at: https://www.visitsealife.com/london/

BBox Insulating Flip Top Bottle

advent calendar, Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, National Walking Month, REUSABLE, Sport, Summer

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The insulating Flip Top Bottle from BBox is one of those items you don’t know you need until you start using it. The 690ml bottle (shown here in spearmint colour but is also available in varieties of blue, green and pink) appeals to both adults and children thanks to the colours as well as the easy of use and volume.  It has stainless steel inners with a similar stainless steel straw and a flip top spout so that it doesn’t spill. There’s a bendy carry handle too which makes it easy to fix to a backpack or carry by hand and not get broken.

I found this really easy to use. It’s easy to fil up with the screw lid coming off to reveal the stainless steel. Your water doesn’t have to touch any plastic.  I am particularly passionate about not using plastic bottles because of the damage they do to the environment, but few people know what damage plastic does to our bodies, so stainless steel is the best option.  I like the fact that the BBox Insulating Flip Top Bottle can keep drinks cold as well as hot, so it has use during both the summer and the winter. 

It’s great for take out on trips, and the robust design means it can be taken to football games, put in the car (the insulating layers means it won’t get hot quick) or in a backpack for lunchtime.  The huge capacity means though, that you can stay hydrated all day on just one fill up. It can take drinks from temperatures as low as -20C right up to 120C. Tell me who wouldn’t want to use a versatile insulating bottle with those credentials?

Available from £28.99 at: https://uk.bbox.com/products/690ml-insulated-flip-top-bottle-spearmint?_pos=3&_sid=55527eae2&_ss=r

Grease The Musical at The Grand Theatre Blackpool

Days Out, Theatre

Disclaimer: We received free tickets to the show for the purpose of this review but all thoughta and opinions are our own.

Blackpool Grand Theatre rolled out the pink carpet last night for its vibrant new production of Grease the Musical, presented in collaboration with Pitlochry Festival Theatre. From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was whisked away into the colourful world of 1950s American high school life, filled with teenage drama, romance, and rock ‘n’ roll energy.

As a lifelong fan of Grease, I arrived with high expectations and the brilliant cast exceeded them at every turn. What made this production really stand out was that the performers didn’t just sing and dance; many also played their own instruments live on stage. Rather than relying on a separate orchestra, the cast doubled as the band, seamlessly integrating guitars, saxophones, drums, and keyboards into the action. This added a raw, electric energy to the performance and gave the musical a fresh, live-concert feel.

Alexander Service delivered the perfect blend of swagger and vulnerability as Danny, effortlessly capturing the essence of the iconic character. His on-stage chemistry with Blythe Jandoo who played Sandy, was unmistakable, especially during their heartfelt duets, my favourite of which was their last song  “You’re the One That I Want.”

The choreography by Kally Lloyd Jones was also a highlight, from energetic hand jives to slick twists and turns, the cast nailed every move with infectious enthusiasm.

The staging was dynamic and clever, making full use of the Grand Theatre’s space with smooth transitions between Rydell High, Marty’s bedroom, and the burger bar. While the film’s famous car race scene was understandably omitted, Greased Lightning made a couple of thrilling appearances, including being impressively driven off stage to the audience’s delight.

As the show built to its joyous finale, the themes of change, acceptance, and young love came into sharp focus. Danny’s transformation into a letterman and Sandy’s bold new look sparked cheers, culminating in a high-energy rendition of “You’re the One That I Want.”

It was impossible to single out a favourite performer, each cast member brought something unique, and together they created a night of nostalgic, foot-tapping, feel-good theatre. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the story, this is a must-see show.

Tickets start at £15 with school and group rates available

Grease The Musical is at The Grand Theatre Blackpool Opera House until Saturday 14th June.

For more information or to book tickets visit: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk or call the box office on 01253 290 190

Photo credit dannywithacamera.com
 

Helly Hansen Women’s Verglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Days Out, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Spring, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

In our final item from the Helly Hansen delivery, we have the Women’s Verglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket.  This extremely lightweight jacket can be folded into one tiny sized pocket to take on hikes, or can be worn whilst running or hiking without getting in the way due to its weight. It’s waterproof too so you can keep the majority of the weather away from you. It’s breathable too so you can wear it in the rain, when it’s windy or hot or a combination of all three!

The added benefits of. The Verglas 2.5 Fastpack Jacket include a hood, zip-up pockets, fleece chin guard, elastic cuffs and hem, and the 2.5 layer material construction which adds the waterproof and breathable functions.  It’s pricy at £200 but it’s meant for the serious outdoor types who love the wet weather!  This is a quality piece which can be worn or taken out for years.  I wear a size XL in this and it’s a bit snug, so if you’re bulked up with layers underneath, it might be worth getting a larger size than normal.

The Veriglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket is brilliant for putting in a backpack on a long journey, even if you’re just travelling by train across the country or leave it in the car because it’s so light it can’t not be useful.

Available from £200: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-verglas-25l-fastpack-jacket-63313?color=290002

Helly Hansen’s Women’s Escape Anorak

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, hiking, National Walking Month, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Some relief from the recent rains – the Helly Hansen Escape Anorak for women is an all-season lightweight waterproof jacket, perfect for hiking thanks to its design. There’s a huge pocket at the front with a roof to prevent rain getting in, so you can store your phone, map and keys all in one place whilst you walk.  The waterproof material (100% polyester) dries quickly and stretches too, especially along the seams. I like this jacket because the arms are particularly long, and it doesn’t have a fastening – you just throw it over your head and the rain can’t get in! The high neck has vertical poppers to both keep you warm and there’s poopers on the cuffs too, which limits the amount of water in your sleeves when it’s REALLY raining! It has an adjustable hem too – a draw string to keep you snug when it’s cold.

This jacket isn’t just for hiking but for any outdoors pursuits, especially because it’s so light that you can put it in the car and forget about it. The jacket comes in other colours (pink and black) and is size XS up to XL which is what I’m wearing here. 

Available for £80 at: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-escape-anorak-54328?color=627457

Sea-Band Natural Sickness Relief

Children, Days Out, eco friendly, Family Life, health, REUSABLE, Summer

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

As summer approaches, trips on boats, cars and planes often get dogged by travel sickness.  Medication aside, there is a natural way of preventing it that doesn’t include drugs and is safe even for morning sickness.  Sea-Bands use pressure points on the inside of the wrists to alleviate the symptoms and in some cases, the sickness goes altogether. We were sent a pair to try out and we discovered they’re not just for cruises!

There are two bands in the pack, and they come in their own plastic box to keep them clean, or to have on hand in a handbag or travel luggage as and when needed.  To use, just place them over your wrists (you need to use both bands for them to be effective) and have the button in the inside of your wrist, over the Nei-Kuan point. This acupressure point can be found by placing your middle three fingers on the inside of your wrist, with the third finger just below the first wrist crease. The Nei-Kuan point is found under our first (index) finger.  If you’re placing the Sea-Bands on children, use their fingers to find the same point.

You can place the bands on before a journey or as you start to feel sick, although it can take 2-5 minutes to start taking effect so it’s best to place them on before travelling. Extra pressure on the buttons gives more relief so sleeping with them on and your palms faced down has a greater effect.  If you’re wearing them for morning sickness, you can put them on the night before and wear them all day too.

Sea-Bands have no side-effects and can be used all day to prevent relief, just be sure to adjust them if they come out of place. They’re re-usable too, so you can take them off and store them for another day and wash them gently under water. They’re also used for the symptoms of nausea resulting from anaesthesia and chemotherapy.

We go on cruises frequently, and if you’ve ever travelled through the Bay of Biscay or the North Atlantic, then you’ll know that anti-nausea relief is a MUST!  The Sea-Bands really help with the nausea feeling. They don’t always prevent all of the sickness but they do relieve it, and depending on the cause and severity, can give complete instant relief.

Available for £7.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nausearelief-Sea-Band-Wristband-for-Nausea/dp/B0BK1ZR172?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1

Shirley Valentine, The Grand Theatre, Blackpool 

Days Out, Gifts for Her, Theatre

Disclaimer: We received free tickets for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Directed by Lotte Wakeham and re-set in Lancashire rather than its original Liverpool, Willy Russell’s popular play, Shirley Valentine, is currently captivating audiences at Blackpool Grand Theatre. We had the pleasure of watching it last night, and it is definitely a production not to be missed!

The story revolves around Shirley, a 42-year-old woman whose children have flown the nest, leaving her feeling stuck in a stagnant marriage and disillusioned with life. We first meet her in her 1980’s kitchen, typical of many a Lancashire home, where she communicates to the audience by talking to the kitchen wall. Through these reflections, she recalls encounters from her past, one minute she’s reminiscing about bumping into an old school friend who’s now a high-class escort, and the next, she’s got us howling with laughter at tales of her son’s school nativity play.

As Shirley shares her story, she’s calmly cooking up egg and chips for husband Joe’s tea, all the while enjoying a well-deserved glass of wine. The unpretentious set and the choice of a classic northern meal felt so comforting and familiar, and it really felt like the audience were being welcomed right into her kitchen. 

As Shirley shares her story, she confides in us about her secret plans for a holiday to Greece with her friend Jane, who’s kindly bought her the ticket. You can sense her inner turmoil as she wrestles with the idea of leaving – who’s going to cook Joe’s meals and keep the house in order while she’s away? But the tipping point comes when her daughter Millandra breezes back home, fully expecting Shirley to keep catering to her every whim. It’s the final straw! As The Clash’s Should I Stay or Should I Go? blasts out, Shirley makes her choice – she’s off! She leaves behind a freezer stocked with meals and a note for Joe. We both agreed it was an absolutely brilliant way to end the first half – full of drama, defiance, and a touch of rock ’n’ roll!

The second half is set in Greece and when Shirley’s friend quickly becomes occupied with a man she met on the plane, Shirley is left to her own devices. Yet, far from feeling abandoned, Shirley embraces the solitude and the opportunity for self-discovery and enjoys it so much she decides to stay in Greece despite Joe wanting her to return home!

Mina Anwar’s performance as Shirley Valentine was absolutely brilliant. In a one-woman show, the challenge of carrying the entire script is no small feat, yet she delivered it flawlessly. She brings such warmth, humour, and depth to the character, effortlessly shifting from heartfelt moments of reflection to laugh-out-loud comedy. It’s no wonder her performance earned a thoroughly deserved standing ovation, her portrayal was so genuine and relatable.

Even though Willy Russell wrote Shirley Valentine over 30 years ago, it still speaks to us today. I know of lots of women who at times wish they could escape and leave everyday life behind – although most of them never would, but it’s nice to dream! This production is uplifting, empowering, and it’s such a wonderful reminder to grab life by the olives and make the most of every moment!

Shirley Valentine is at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 1st April to Saturday 5th April. Tickets cost from £15 with concessions for 1894 Club members and Friends of The Grand. Group rates are also available. There is also an Audio Described/BSL performance on Saturday 5th April at 2.30pm

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit the Blackpool Grand website for full listings, bookings and further information.

Photo credits – The Other Richard

The Three Fishes, Mitton

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Days Out, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Restaurant, Valentine's Day Gifts

Disclaimer: This meal was gifted to the reviewer for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are their own.

Tucked away in the charming hamlet of Mitton, right in the heart of the Ribble Valley lies The Three Fishes, a fabulous foodie heaven led by renowned chef Nigel Haworth. With a real passion for local produce and proper, traditional flavours, this place is all about that farm-to-fork goodness. It had been a long time since our last visit and after browsing the enticing menu online we couldn’t wait to tuck into what promised to be a truly special dining experience.

Nigel’s dedication to locally sourced ingredients is evident in every aspect of the menu, with many seasonal elements harvested directly from the restaurant’s kitchen garden or carefully selected from trusted local suppliers. This commitment ensures that each dish is served at peak freshness, resulting in bold, well-balanced flavours that truly shine. From the finest local producers to the restaurant’s own kitchen garden, every ingredient is chosen with care, and the attention to detail elevates even the simplest of dishes. The menu proudly showcases regional treasures like Mrs. Kirkham’s cheese and Morecambe Bay lobster, celebrating the authentic flavours of Lancashire’s rich culinary heritage.

The menu changes with the seasons, meaning there is always something new to discover. On this occasion, we ate from the Farm-to-Fork Tasting Menu, a carefully curated five-course journey through the best that the local land and sea have to offer. Despite it being a midweek evening, the restaurant maintained a lively yet intimate atmosphere, with just the right level of bustle to create a sense of occasion. Service was impeccable, with the knowledgeable staff providing detailed explanations of each dish and offering personal recommendations, particularly when it came to accompaniments for the pheasant. Small but significant touches—such as a waitress noticing our water needed replenishing without being asked demonstrated a level of attentiveness that is all too rare.

The meal commenced with Nigel’s Lancashire Cheese Bread Rolls, made with the renowned Mrs. Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese. These warm, pillowy rolls were accompanied by a savoury black pea hummus and a bright, herbaceous parsley pesto, an inspired combination of flavors and textures that set the tone for the meal ahead.

Next came the Baked Wilja Potato, sourced from a local farm and presented with samphire butter, fennel coleslaw, and puffed rice. The contrast of crispy, golden skin against the fluffy interior, drenched in rich butter, was simply divine. It was a masterclass in how to elevate a humble ingredient to something truly memorable.

Now, if I had to pick a standout moment from the evening, it would have to be the Morecambe Bay Lobster Soup. A properly well-executed dish, it had a rich, deep-sea flavour that was further enhanced by a bit of cream and a very sensible amount of chili, just enough to make itself known without being overpowering. The addition of sticky rice, along with decent-sized chunks of lobster and haddock, provided a pleasing contrast in texture. Each spoonful was a rather excellent balance of spice and creaminess, and I must say, this is one of those dishes that stays with you – in a good way, of course.

The Ribble Valley Pheasant Breast arrived as a golden-brown schnitzel, fried in pheasant fat for extra depth of flavour, and served with a fragrant herb butter and a spiced crumb. We opted for the super thick chips and cauliflower as accompaniments, though the unexpected highlight was a delightful serving of pheasant shepherd’s pie. Nigel’s philosophy of using every part of the bird resulted in a deeply satisfying dish, succulent minced pheasant with a sweet, moreish flavour, topped with a cloud-like layer of mashed potato.

For dessert, the Foragers Souffle, a delicate apple and bramble souffle was an absolute triumph. Light and fluffy it melted on the tongue and was served alongside a delicious, brown bread ice cream and crunchy croutons, providing a medley of textures that made each mouthful an absolute pleasure. Just when we thought we had finished, a final surprise arrived: a small Eccles cake, its crisp, flaky pastry encasing plump, juicy currants, providing a perfectly sweet ending to an exceptional meal.

Dining at The Three Fishes is a masterclass in how to celebrate local produce with skill, creativity, and a deep respect for the land. Nigel Haworth has created more than just a restaurant, he has crafted an experience that is both comforting and exciting, traditional yet innovative. This is farm-to-fork dining at its finest, and it’s one I’ll be eager to return to again.

5 courses £39 Wednesday & Thursday and £49 on Friday & Saturdays

To book telephone 01254 826666 or email reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk


Platzki, Manchester

Days Out, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, Restaurant, Valentine's Day Gifts

Disclaimer: We received a meal and drinks free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Right in the heart of Deansgate, one of Manchester’s most vibrant stretches, sits a Polish restaurant called Platzki. Arriving on a bitterly cold Sunday lunchtime, we were greeted with warmth, both from the staff and the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere. The industrial-chic design was softened beautifully with plenty of greenery and fresh flowers, creating the perfect balance between contemporary and cosy and is just the kind of place you want to settle into for a long, leisurely meal.

From the moment we arrived, the service was nothing short of exceptional. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the food they were serving. They guided us through the menu with genuine enthusiasm, offering thoughtful recommendations and ensuring that we felt comfortable navigating the array of traditional Polish dishes. Their attentiveness was perfectly balanced, not too overbearing, yet always available when needed, making what could potentially have been an intimidating experience an enjoyable exploration of Polish cuisine. The drinks menu featured an extensive range of cocktails and Polish wines and not being wine experts we followed our waiter’s recommendation and opted for a Polish chardonnay. Light, crisp, and refreshing, it was a perfect match for the meal. 

As we awaited our starters, we were offered some Smalec, a traditional Polish rustic spread made from rendered pork fat and served with sourdough bread and pickles. Rich and surprisingly tasty it was balanced beautifully by the sharpness of the pickle giving us a tasty snippet of the Polish treats to come.

Eager to sample a variety of flavours, we opted to share two highly recommended starters. The Pierogi, delicate dumplings filled with velvety cottage cheese and topped with crispy fried onions, were wonderfully soft, satisfying and full of flavour. Meanwhile the Tatar, a hand-chopped, 21-day aged beef fillet tartare, was nothing short of exceptional. Whilst I enjoy a rare steak, eating raw meat was a step into the unknown but the tartare didn’t disappoint. The finely balanced flavours of mustard, spring onion and pickles elevated the dish, making it a real highlight of our meal. 

For the main course, we opted for a classic Polish dish – Bigos, a traditional hunter’s stew made with sauerkraut, beef, pork neck, Polish sausage, mushrooms, and a hint of red wine. The stew was robust, rich in tomato and onion flavours, and incredibly hearty. Served with sourdough bread, it was a deeply satisfying dish that showcased the heartwarming nature of Polish cuisine and was just what we needed on a chilly February day.

Our second main was Szaszlyk, a lighter but just as satisfying dish. The grilled chicken thigh skewers had been marinated in kefir, paprika, and thyme and were served with roasted baby potatoes and a creamy dip. The chicken was lovely and tender and packed with flavour and the accompanying pickles, salad and dip complemented the dish wonderfully.

To accompany our mains, we opted for two classic Polish side dishes. The Buraczki, a vibrant beetroot dish mixed with walnuts and mayo which offered an earthy sweetness that paired perfectly with the chicken. The Sauerkraut, mixed with carrot, apple, and onion, was a surprising delight. Having previously found sauerkraut underwhelming, this version was bursting with flavour and was incredibly moreish.

No meal is complete without a sweet finale and as we were both quite full we opted to share a baked cheesecake. Served warm, the creamy texture and subtle sweetness made it the perfect ending to our meal, especially when paired with the homemade chocolate hearts that accompanied it.

This visit marked our first foray into Polish cuisine and it certainly won’t be our last. The combination of a welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and outstanding food made for a memorable experience. Whether you’re already a fan of Polish cuisine or looking to try something new, Platzki on Deansgate is well worth a visit – we’ll certainly be back soon.

Nibbles £6

Starters from £7.50

Mains from £21.50

Sides from £4.50

Desserts £6.50

The Ivy Restaurant, West Street, WC2 London

Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Restaurant

NOT SPONSORED

The outside appearance of The Ivy is deceptive when you consider that the restaurant is wedge shaped and on both Litchfield Street and West Street, where the entrance is, in London’s Theatre Land.  The distinctive Ivy Windows which have become their branding, can be seen clearly from both streets as you approach and are directly opposite St Martin’s Theatre where The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie has been playing for more than 70 years.

Inside, the bar dominates the centre of the restaurant which isn’t as expansive as you might have thought. The tables arrange around the bar and towards the back of the room but there are more private rooms out of view – a necessity for the celebrities who frequently choose The Ivy for entertaining.  If you walk off the street and ask for a table you’re unlikely to find one, but there’s a slim chance that you’ll get a seat at the bar to eat, which is the same menu as everyone else.  

The Ivy

Opening in 1917 for the first time, when Europe was at war and there were very few people in London, The Ivy has in the past decade branched out and opened several Ivy Brasseries around the country. All of them have the stained glass window branding and this original West Street site is ne exception, even after renovation.  What’s striking is the attention to detail such as the ivy cut outs on the bar’s drip tray, the artwork which reflects the bold colours of the (obscured) windows and the managers who wear an Ivy brooch to show their responsibility.

The menu is classic and the portions plentiful.  From Veal cheeks bourgouignon to the Ivy Classics of The Ivy Burger and Deep-fried haddock and chips, there is something for everyone.  The menu at West Street is similar to what you find in the brasseries but with added temptations and some specials you won’t find anywhere else such as Beef Wellington for 2. We also liked the dessert menu, which has staples such as Tiramisu and a selection of cheeses, but with The Ivy’s famous Chocolate Bombe which is a theatre experience in itself when the staff pour hot caramel over the chocolate bombe to reveal ice cream underneath. Not for the fainthearted, it’s worth saving room on the mains for this delicious, decadent treat that The Ivy does so well.

The bar creates a wealth of cocktails, some of which are house specialties going back decades, as well as the usual long selection of spirits. The Ivy is famous for their Martinis though, and the bar staff will happily advise along which Martini route you wish to indulge.  Another suggestion would be their Peach Bellini, the Prosecco based tipple which is often enjoyed at breakfast but goes exceptionally well with lunch as well.

The atmosphere is bustling and warm within The Ivy with nearly every seat at every table able to see who walks in the door.  From the outside, it’s impossible to see who is seated inside so you have to venture in through the wood and glass Art Deco doors, past the huge vases of fresh flowers and to the hosts on the main desk to see if they have a table, or a bar stool for you.  The food is the star of the restaurant though, with sumptuous presentations of classic dishes and something different for anyone looking for a change.

https://ivycollection.com/restaurants/the-ivy-west-street/

The Ivy West Street

Hyatt Hotels, Manchester       

Days Out, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Hotel

Disclaimer: We received a free stay and meal for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Manchester has always held a special place in my heart. My husband spent his university years there, and I visited often, falling in love with the city’s energy and charm. Returning after so many years and exploring our old haunts, we couldn’t help but marvel at how much Manchester has evolved whilst the warmth and friendliness that define the North remain beautifully intact. 

This time, our base wasn’t the humble student digs of our youth but the splendid 4 star Hyatt Hotel Manchester, tucked just behind the home to Manchester’s universities – Oxford Road. The hotel offers two hotels under one roof, the Hyatt Regency with 212 rooms, and Hyatt House, a 116-room aparthotel making it the ideal base for a city break. One challenge we often encounter when visiting cities is finding convenient car parking but thankfully, this wasn’t an issue during our stay, as the hotel is perfectly located next to the secure university car park, providing 24-hour parking for £16.50. For those arriving by train, it’s also conveniently located, a 10-minute walk from Manchester Oxford Road Station or a 20-minute stroll from Manchester Piccadilly.

Opening the door to our room, we were greeted by a spacious room that struck the perfect balance between modern design and comfort. A king-sized bed occupied pride of place and there was also a comfortable chair and sleek, modern desk, perfectly suited for guests visiting the city on business.The pièce de résistance, however, was undoubtedly the floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a stunning view of Manchester at night, with the city’s twinkling lights creating a striking contrast against the dark sky.

The room was spotlessly clean and furnished with everything you might need for a restful retreat. It was tastefully decorated in neutral tones and contemporary textures that whispered rather than shouted sophistication. The spacious bathroom was a pleasant surprise, featuring both a generous shower and a bath, along with luxury toiletries. It was the perfect retreat for unwinding after a day of exploring the city.

The central location is perfect for exploring Manchester, with Oxford Road’s Dutch-style cycle lanes making it a cyclist’s dream and with city bike’s to hire nearby there’s no need to bring your own. For those seeking adventure, the Fallowfield Loop, Britain’s longest urban cycleway, provides a largely traffic-free track for walking or cycling, following the path of a former railway line. Though we plan to return and explore this scenic route on two wheels, our short visit called for a gentler approach and we opted for a leisurely stroll. As we wandered, the streets conjured memories of nightclub queues, post-pub kebabs, and the carefree energy of youth. While Manchester has transformed in many ways, its vibrancy and unmistakable spirit remain as captivating as ever – a city that embraces its evolution while honouring its past.

Back at the hotel, we ate at The Laureate Restaurant with the à la carte menu offering an array of choices at reasonable prices. We began with Calamari Ringsand ChickenWings, the calamari was tender, encased in a light, crispy coating, while the chicken wings had just the right level of spice and succulence to keep us reaching for more. For our main courses, we indulged in two favourites: a richly spiced Chicken Tikka Masala and a beautifully golden Fish and Chips, coated in crispy batter and served with chunky chips and mushy peas. Each dish was perfect and was satisfying without being overwhelming. Despite feeling pleasantly full, we couldn’t resist a dessert. My Lemon Tart was a zesty delight with the raspberry sorbet perfectly complementing the tart. The cheeseboard offered a selection of fine cheeses and rounded off the meal beautifully.

For guests who prefer the comfort of dining in their room, the In-Room Dining Menu offers a  variety of options, available from 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM. The menu includes starters, mains, pizzas, and side dishes, alongside a couple of indulgent treats – a cheeseboard and ice cream. There is a charge of £5 for delivery.  

Whilst not for me, fitness enthusiasts will find the onsite gym a dream, equipped with Peloton® bikes, treadmills, weights, and more. A perfect way to offset the fine dining and no excuse to miss a gym session whilst away from home!

The following morning, breakfast was nothing short of a feast catering for all tastes and appetites. For those who prefer a lighter start to their day there were cheeses and cold meats, cereals and a wide selection of fruits plus juices and yoghurt. When I’m on holiday I like to indulge in a cooked breakfast so the help-yourself buffet was just what I needed with eggs cooked to perfection, sizzling sausages and delcious bacon as well as other traditional favourites, all washed down with freshly brewed coffee. Had I wanted something that was not on offer, the chef was on hand to create dishes on request.

We really enjoyed our night at the Hyatt Regency Manchester, from the warm welcome we received to the wonderful food and the location which was the perfect base to rediscover Manchester, and we’ve promised ourselves we won’t let so much time pass before our next visit.

Hard Rock Cafe, Manchester

Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Restaurant

Disclaimer: We received a meal and drinks free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Nestled right in the heart of Manchester, within the newly refurbished Printworks entertainment complex, stands the Hard Rock Café, a veritable shrine to rock ‘n’ roll and, as it turns out, mighty fine food.

Upon entering we were warmly welcomed and shown to our booth which, given our location, was the ideal spot – situated beneath a display of memorabilia from Oasis – one of  Manchester’s most iconic bands.  The Hard Rock Café is more than just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of music, culture, and legendary artistry. When you look around the restaurant there is an amazing collection of memorabilia, from guitars autographed by iconic musicians, drum kits on the walls and outfits worn by some of the world’s most famous musicians, every piece tells a story and a meal at the Hard Rock Café is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.

January, of course, is a month for frugality, as many of us recover from the excesses of Christmas. And so, the two mains for £25 deal (available Monday to Thursday, 12–3 pm) was music to our wallets. While the menu for this offer isn’t as vast as the standard menu, the selection remains delightfully tempting. Choices range from a Caesar Salad with Chicken or Salmon to a classic burger with fries, a grilled chicken sandwich, or a South-Western Chicken Bowl, each each dish tempting enough to make you reconsider those New Year resolutions.

Guided by the expert advice of our ever-attentive server, Andy, we began with the starters: the “One Night in Bangkok Spicy Shrimp” and a mammoth tray of nachos. While the nachos were generous enough to satisfy two, it was the shrimp that truly stole the spotlight, perfectly crispy, tantalisingly spicy, and served on a bed of crunchy coleslaw – it was absolutely delicious and I could easily have eaten a second portion!!

For our main courses, my husband opted for the Caesar Salad with Salmon, while I indulged in the Classic Burger with Fries. The salad was delightfully fresh and crisp and refreshing with large croutons providing a pleasing crunch, while the salmon was cooked to perfection. The burger, was everything a good burger should be – a towering stack of tender beef, melted cheese, and all the classic accompaniments, expertly assembled for maximum satisfaction.

After devouring two courses, we were feeling quite full, but I can never say no to dessert, especially when there’s a hot chocolate fudge brownie on the menu. This show-stopping treat arrived in a towering glass, featuring a warm, gooey brownie as its base, crowned with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream, a fluffy swirl of whipped cream, and a bright red cherry on top. Rich, indulgent, and utterly divine, it was the perfect way to end the meal on a sweet high note.

The atmosphere in the restaurant was relaxed yet lively, with classic rock hits playing at just the right volume to enhance the vibe without overwhelming the conversation. The staff were friendly and efficient, and the diverse crowd, families, couples, and groups of friends—added to the welcoming, inclusive feel of the place.

If you’re in Manchester and looking for a meal that delivers on flavor and fun, the Hard Rock Café is a must-visit. We’ll definitely be back—and probably sooner rather than later!

Walk-ins are welcome, but booking is recommended. For more information or to reserve a table, visit: Hard Rock Café Manchester.

Maison Francois, 34 Duke Street SW1Y

Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Restaurant

NOT SPONSORED
Tucked behind The Ritz and Fortnum & Mason, Maison Francois is a piece of France nuzzled into the London West End scene.  The food, like the extensive menu, is quintessentially French and uses the best ingredients in one of the best London locations to keep Londoners happy. Very few people know of its existence either, making this a new find for most casual city diners.

The restaurant opens into an Art Deco floor with woodwork booths and sectioning to give privacy to diners.  There’s a huge pewter clock above the passe to the kitchen and the high ceilings makes it easy to talk at any of the tables.  The menu is written all in French but the staff are happy to help with any of the items especially the specials and the bar is well stocked, again with specials available to everyone.

Maison Francois is famous for their patisseries but before we get to that stage, the menu is worth talking about.  There is a huge choice and everything that you can imagine is French is on there, including some things that aren’t such as types of pasta and breakfast items.  The steaks and duck pasta (reginette, ragoût de canard, olives vertes) are particularly good.  We also sampled some of the wines which are on show in a huge cabinet behind the waiter’s station.  The desserts are also on show, but in the old-fashioned tradition of a dessert trolley.  The glass dome shows off the hand crafted cakes and drawers underneath hold even more delights such as macarons and bark.

Downstairs there’s a breakfast bar which turns into a wine bar after 3pm. Again, the theme of open plan works well here as you descend downstairs and see the deli items on show.  No reservations are needed here but as it’s downstairs, you can easily hide away or take time out before returning to shopping.

The atmosphere is professional yet low-key with a high level of service but a familiarity of the restaurant and friendly staff.  The attentive nature of a French restaurant means you are well catered for, service is quick and the food is top level.

Pros

Huge choice of French cuisine

Excellent desserts and a range of cakes

Service was friendly and efficient

Cons

The menu is entirely in French so you might need a translation from staff

Can be pricy, reflecting on the quality of the food

https://www.maisonfrancois.london

The Delaunay, 55 Aldwych London WC2B

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Restaurant

With London’s rich history comes a plethora historical restaurants which are less for tourists and aimed more at those aching for a London gone by.  The Delaunay, on the edge of Covent Garden and with The Strand at one end and London’s financial district at the other, has been part of Holborn for decades albeit as The Wolseley on Piccadilly. As part of the Wolseley Group, The Delaunay caters from breakfast to dinner, serving theatre goers as well as locals and fans of European cuisine but with an understated, high end elegance only this part of London can show off.

The Delaunay boasts a classical, wood panelled French-style bar when you walk in. Here you can have a drink pre-dinner or walk through to the hive-like restaurant with its grand ceilings, low lighting and a huge antique clock at one end, it looks like it’s been there for decades yet only opened as The Delaunay in 2011. It’s menu reflects the surroundings; Tranche of Halibut, Fillet of Beef Stroganoff and Grilled Spatchcock Chicken with Jersey Rock Oysters for starters, or Borscht with horseradish cream to reflect the European feel of the restaurant.  There’s a specials menu too, which produced this delicious Beef Wellington with a doorstep sized wedge of beef that was medium rare, but not by any means a medium meal.  There was no need for side orders with this meal as there was ample on offer. Still, the relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant allowed for some time between mains and dessert, allowing an opportunity to soak in the ambience.

The dessert menu gets the full European treatment with gems such as Classic Apple Strudel, Salzburger Soufflé and The Franz-Joseph Kaiserschmarrn (a fluffy, German inspired pancake dessert with plum compote).  We went for the Berry & Vanilla Baked Alaska which arrived with the very dramatic blow torch and alcohol pan, served flaming in front of us with the meringue lightly scorched enough just as the flames burnt out.  The fresh blackberries, red currants and kirsch bring out the sweetness of the ice cream and meringue in this hearty dish, leaving everyone satisfied after just two courses. You can of course, have a selection of British Cheeses either as well or instead of a dessert, and the extensive wine and cocktail list from The Delaunay Bar adds to the grandeur of the occasion.

Unlike other establishments, the hassle-free expertise of the waiting staff at The Delaunay contribute to the pleasure of dining in contrast to the more formal settings. Diners are afforded the speed of a City restaurant but the laid-back service of a French café or a German bar, making the entire experience the best of European dining.

Pros

Different cuisine with an emphasis on European, especially with the desserts

Very relaxed, easy to take your time over food or just a snack

Spacious seating so you can converse without interruption

Cons

Very dim light, so use the torch on your phone!

Cinderella at The Grand Theatre Blackpool

Children, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for children, Winter

Disclaimer: We received free tickets for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

December is here, and panto season is in full swing! Last night, we made our way to The Grand Theatre in Blackpool to see Cinderella, and what a brilliant evening it turned out to be. The theatre was buzzing with festive cheer, and the excitement in the air was electric as we took our seats, eagerly waiting for the curtain to go up.

The Fairy Godmother, played by local lass Hayley Tamaddon, kicked things off by introducing us to the classic tale with a lovely sprinkle of rhyme, magic and sparkle. She kept the story flowing as the narrator but didn’t stop there, she also wowed us with her cracking dance moves and stunning singing voice.

No Blackpool panto would be complete without Steve Royle, who shone as the lovable Buttons. From the moment he bounded onto the stage, he had the audience in stitches, connecting seamlessly with both children and adults. His slapstick antics and razor-sharp wit are absolutely brilliant and a real highlight of the show. 

The Ugly Sisters, played by Jamie Morris and Tarot Joseph, were nothing short of spectacular, delivering laugh-out-loud comedy, jam packed with double entendres. Their hilarious double act had me in tears of laughter at one point, as they effortlessly stole every scene with their outrageous antics. True to tradition, their costumes were flamboyantly over-the-top, utterly sensational, and a dazzling spectacle in their own right!

There’s so many great scenes in this pantomime and one of the highlights came just before the interval when Cinderella’s rags were magically transformed into a stunning ball gown, and her enchanted pumpkin coach appeared, pulled by two adorable Shetland ponies. The quick change was flawlessly executed, adding to the magic, while the (incredibly well-behaved) ponies were an absolute treat, earning audible gasps of delight from the children nearby. Kitty Harris shone as Cinderella, looking every inch the princess in her dazzling gown.

Choreographed by Katie Hill, the show featured lively dance routines performed by a talented troupe of young dancers from Barbara Jackson’s Theatre Arts Centre. We especially enjoyed the little ones being foxes, wowing the audience with their cartwheeling antics.

This fabulous pantomime is a treat for all ages, packed with laugh-out-loud moments and clever jokes that work on many levels – from cheeky innuendos for the grown-ups to playful humour for the kids. Don’t wait until the clock strikes midnight to book your tickets – grab your tickets to the ball now! Cinderella is a magical Christmas treat for the entire family and it’s not to be missed this panto season.

Cinderella is at Blackpool Grand Theatre until Sunday 5 January 2025 with matinee and evening performances. Tickets are available by calling the box office on 01253 290190 or visit the Blackpool Grand website. Tickets cost from £15

Photos: Martin Bostock Photography

Here We Come Again at The Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Days Out, Theatre

Disclaimer: We received free tickets for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

From the moment the lights came up for Here You Come Again, it was blindingly obvious this was going to be a fantastic show. The grim reality of the COVID-19 pandemic sets the stage, but instead of doom and gloom, we’re greeted by Kevin, a 40-year-old comedian, chucking jumbo packs of toilet rolls through his attic window – a hilarious reminder of the toilet roll panic buying we all did in lockdown!!

Poor Kevin has hit rock bottom and he’s been forced to return to his parents’ home in Yorkshire. His career is in ruins, his boyfriend Jeremy has given him the boot, and things couldn’t look much bleaker. With no job and endless hours to fill, he finds solace in his beloved Dolly Parton albums. But when he starts pondering, “What would Dolly do?”, she magically comes to life, in true fairy godmother style, to help him untangle the mess that his life has become. Dolly, played by Tricia Paoluccio has such an amazing voice that if you closed your eyes you’d swear the real Dolly had descended from Nashville! Her renditions of “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” were especially brilliant, transporting the audience straight to country music heaven.

Kevin, played with manic energy by Steven Webb, is hilariously relatable. His comedic timing is impeccable, and his dance moves, both wild and uninhibited are fantastic to watch.  Somehow, he manages to be both hilarious and heartfelt, portraying Kevin’s journey from despair to determination with a captivating mix of humour and vulnerability. His chemistry with Paoluccio is electric, balancing gut-busting laughs with moments that genuinely tug at the heartstrings.

Yes, the story has been orchestrated to fit Dolly’s hits, but who cares? It works. Dolly acts as Kevin’s sparkly guiding light, doling out advice and belting out tunes to drag him out of his misery. There are plenty of nods to the pandemic including  stockpiling loo rolls and washing  your hands to “Happy Birthday” and I guarantee you will be laughing out loud all night!  

By the finale, the entire audience was on its feet belting out Dolly classics in unison. It’s gloriously over-the-top, hilarious and utterly unforgettable and I guarantee you’ll leave the theatre grinning ear to ear and humming one of Dolly’s hits!

Here You Come Again is at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 26 November to Saturday 30 November 2024 with evening and matinee performances.

Tickets cost from £24.50 with concessions available for 1894 Club Members, Groups and 18 to 26 year olds.

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit: www.BlackpoolGrand.co.uk for full listings, bookings and further information.

Christmas at The Ivy Market Grill

Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Restaurant, Winter

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

There’s nowhere better than The Ivy this Christmas to meet up with friends, celebrate with family or finish off a joyous evening at the theatre. With The Ivy’s new festive menu, you can take the work out of Christmas and dine on their sumptuous, all-Christmas menu. We visited The Ivy Market Grill at Covent Garden this week to see the Christmas lights turned on and start the celebrations with a gorgeous meal!

All venues of The Ivy throughout the country are decorated from now until New Year with an Alpine theme of snowmen, skiing and winter chalets. Here in Covent Garden, we couldn’t move for the amount of people stopping to admire the snowmen, skis and the festive trees at the front door and have their photo taken. As you enter, the restaurant is dotted with fully lit Christmas trees throughout the floor, providing a backdrop to each of your yuletide photos.

We were also privy to the luxurious private dining rooms which were set up and ready for guests that evening. There are two private dining rooms at The Ivy Market Grill in Covent Garden, one which can sit 18 on a long table or more on 3 round tables, and the other room comfortably seats 10-12. Each room had a Christmas tree and lots of candles to create the Christmas mood, with each table laid with candelabras and floral centre pieces.  A perfect setting for your department outing, or to meet up with family without the hustle and bustle of the bar and other patrons.

Upstairs, the Covent Garden level tables are split between outside dining (with appropriate heating and throws to keep warm!) or indoors with booths, tables or at the bar. The atmosphere on this Tuesday night was much like a Friday with lots of people dropping in for after work dinner and drinks.  We tried out some of the staples on the menu including this Stilton salad and then the smoked salmon and rye bread. For mains we had seabass and duck curry then ice cream with shortbread and I tried the Birthday Dessert Box – a luxurious dessert of a golden orb, vanilla ice cream, honeycomb pieces, chocolate strands and a hot caramel sauce poured over, with a taste of birthday cake and a huge amount of calories! It’s presented in a ‘box’ which reveals the dessert underneath.

This Christmas, The Ivy have a special festive menu which includes some of your favourites like The Ivy 1917 Cured Smoked Salmon like we tried above, plus some takes on the usual dishes.  There’s the Goose, Turkey and Duck Shepherd’s Pie which is a step-up from the Shepherd’s Pie you find on the menu all year round, and of course being Christmas, there’s the obligatory Turkey Ballotine with all of the Christmas trimmings.  There’s also some new cheeky extras – like the Pigs In Blankets side dish! Two courses (served until 6:30pm) are available for £55 or 3 courses (available 11:30am until close) is £60.

It’s not just the A La Carte menu that’s been updated but this year, you will be able to sample the Boxing Day Brunch with The Ivy, complete with a Bloody Mary and brunch served all day. 

The Ivy is open on Christmas Eve all day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day as well where there’s a great 3-course menu for £87.50 per person. For dinner on the 2nd quarter of the 21st century, you can sample all of the delights of The Ivy without any of the leftovers!

Finish off your meal at any of The Ivy’s bars. We were treated to the Nyetimber Classic Cuvee and there are some delicious Christmas-inspired cocktails to try including the Christmas Mojito, Fig Leaf & Pear Negroni and Ginger & Honey Margarita.

 I cannot wait to go back to The Ivy later this month when I meet up with friends for our annual Christmas dinner.  We love the food, and the service is always so special plus the atmosphere at this time of year is exactly as you dream it should be – Alpine Christmas all the way.

A La Carte Festive menu is available now until New Year: https://ivycollection.com/christmas/

Gift Cards are available for The Ivy here: https://gifts.ivycollection.com

Contigo West Loop Mini Travel Mug

Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, hiking, Home, REUSABLE, secret santa

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate all of those friends and family who buy us Christmas gifts which are both stylish and practical.  With the Contigo West Loop Mini travel mug, you could be one of those gift-givers because Contigo have come up with this excellent design of travel mug that will make anyone happy!

The Contigo West Loop Mini travel mug is designed to fit into outdoor pockets or be able to be carried snugly thanks to its curvy design. It keeps drinks hot for p to 4 hours or cold drinks are cold for up to 14 hours due to a clever design with BPA-free stainless steel.  It’s dishwasher safe as well, including the lid which twists off and reveals 470ml of drinking space – the size of most coffee mugs.

The most ingenious design of the Contigo West Loop Mini is the 100% leak-proof seal.  If you play around with the lid, you find that there’s a spring release autoseal (marked ‘AUTOSEAL’) which when pressed, release the sip cover so that you can drink. When it isn’t pressed, the West Loop Mini is completely sealed so that it doesn’t spill anywhere. That means you can use it in the car, put it in a bag or rucksack and not only will it keep the heat of the drink but it will not leak at all. You can see by the sturdy design of the lid and the inner spring that it’s really effective and when I tested taking it out into the garden, there was indeed no spill no matter how much I threw it around!  This would be great for when you’re out with the children or if you’re into real outdoor pursuits in all weathers.

tea mug

The team at Contigo were also generous enough to send me what I consider a luxury – a proper tea infuser! For those of us who appreciate loose tea, this is a fabulous addition you don’t normally find in travel mugs.  Once the loose tea is put inside the stainless steel strainer, the infuser fits inside the lid before you affix the lid in place. Perfect for having the West Loop Mini full of boiling water, then you can add the already filled infuser to the mug and allow the tea to brew. No more stewed tea when you go out!

Contigo have thought of everything with this travel mug, and there are other products in the Contigo range such as the water bottle which has similar clever designs. The Contigo West Loop Mini comes in 5 different colours (the one featured here is the liquorice design) and sizes.

Available on sale from £24.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Contigo-Autoseal-Stainless-Leakproof-Easy-Clean/dp/B07TRG2RGH/ref=sr_1_5?crid=10N00O7XWBK&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ogA6XhsejKBbFGmkCasxzOXzSCx29RM-0uVZYE8lOLFz7qAzDuDzdktzKHqhIp3r9qmIxhzLB7E-ry8Yg9FHPTxXNAzqcAJeyeviFR8CZch-QogxE_O5yyfIAQfFlHb1gGXRpZEbTm6NdFmJdGXHQCPGhIKTbt6hA3NAaznjAz-vODrevzmiXzj3NyQPduKjoL-f2BFd1J3RMmITfKlELJ4vBUEMoWoJ8_DOprMcMcRNKGE1voWwPKlRVfQqoQG6YRItmMv2USIWdP5p_H-yvi3dulsawpgipU6sfXMGvjE.I9HFuC3mx6yte5i-trYQXRlOZJFFsiZunzc7tUooUNo&dib_tag=se&keywords=contigo&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1730636284&s=sports&sprefix=contigo%2Csports%2C74&sr=1-5

Tea Infuser £15.99 At: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Contigo-Infuser-strainer-stainless-dishwasher/dp/B084C25JMQ/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2BWY8VOYMITXI&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SCRFxTLti8pkQw7yg8bFVAlfG4qU32VNabvQjZjyTx3pFvmNSKQE7IdNQfuZzVV432WZc1nks_BhQEJlXeq1flfHLg4Gldudz0gMEZ63sOk7x5TeZ_MD_d9YZRc9v5foD4rWDYMFzaXMzE_IlYJapkmaTjD9OGxpGD_nM6IZIznyiBc8z3kByLO7Zxp49Pha0cQeQ7JdGfsOIWrtRN9Hrr8nzNHpyMQcrmNjmgAZ8oLdZlhlhAK4XzZEVBIu8mAhM8Eee0UOGtAzLMZnYYq6h20wAQxg5xQSC4e6K3ksyIE.T6hoMdPPp0fa-inAPsOEa2Uc_lDoYEr350cK0fo8nQ8&dib_tag=se&keywords=contigo+infuser&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1730636581&sprefix=contigo+infuser%2Caps%2C60&sr=8-5

Heathers The Musical at The Grand Theatre, Blackpool

Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Gifts for Her, Theatre

Disclaimer: We received free tickets for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Watching Heathers The Musical at The Grand Theatre, Blackpool last night was like stepping into a bold mix of dark humour, nostalgia, and electric storytelling that was captivating from the very start. I haven’t seen the original 1988 film, but that didn’t matter as I was quickly drawn into the powerful story, which isn’t afraid to tackle tough themes head-on, using dark humour to explore the complex, often troubling side of teenage life. The show’s unique blend of ’80s aesthetics and a contemporary edge, created an atmosphere that seemed to reverberate with the audience, who embraced every scene with gusto. 

Photo Credit Pamela Raith Photography

The musical, just like the film, has gained a cult following and many of the audience were dressed in the ‘Heather’ uniform of brightly coloured, short kilts, knee-high socks and scrunchies which really added to the atmosphere in the theatre. 

The Heathers (Esme Bowdler, Sedona Sky and Daisy Twells) in their perfectly coordinated blazers and skirts, commanded the stage with both elegance and intimidation, evoking the stylish allure of a high school clique. JD, on the other hand, wore a classic trench coat that brilliantly captured the cool, detached aesthetic of the 1980s anti-hero. His look, brooding, mysterious, and effortlessly rebellious, added a visual layer to his character’s complex and dangerous allure. The trench coat, especially in scenes where he faced off against the high school jocks, emphasised his outsider status and added to his dark charm.

Photo Credit Pamela Raith Photography

The minimalist set design played a subtle yet powerful role, transforming smoothly from the  high school setting to bedrooms and the graveyard.The lighting added an almost cinematic layer to the scenes, especially when Jenna Innes, as Veronica, stepped into her diary entries. The spotlight brought an intimacy to these moments, drawing us into her character’s vulnerable thoughts and struggles.

The canteen showdown between JD, Kurt, and Ram was one of my favourite scenes. The combination of dynamic lighting and sharp choreography brought a thrilling edge to the scene, capturing the humour and underlying tension of the moment. 

Photo Credit Pamela Raith Photography

Jenna Innes’s portrayal of Veronica brought depth to a character who serves as the show’s moral compass yet finds herself constantly torn between rebellion and innocence. Her voice was strikingly powerful, yet controlled, handling the emotional rollercoaster of the character with nuance. JD’s character, played by Keelan McAuley, was equally compelling, blending charm and danger in a way that made his scenes both captivating and unpredictable.

With dark themes including murder and suicide, Heathers: The Musical is far from your  typical feel-good musical, yet it works surprisingly well, delivering a darkly humorous and thoroughly entertaining exploration of high school’s pressures and contradictions. With catchy songs, sharp dialogue, and a cast that brought the story vividly to life, it’s a show that resonates deeply and stays with you long after the final curtain call, whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the story.

Heather The Musical is at The Grand Theatre,Blackpool until Saturday 2nd November, click here to book tickets.

Tickets from £17.50