A noteworthy programme for classical music fans
This coming Friday (September 8), a special baroque recital at King Charles the Martyr Church will set the scene for this year’s Royal Tunbridge Wells International Music Festival, launching in October. Here the event’s Chair, Rupert Preston Bell, tells Eileen Leahy more about the event and what else to expect from the renowned festival when […]
Read SO Magazine September 2023
It took 25 years for Richard Branson to create his dream hotel – here’s the result
The Son Bunyola estate in Mallorca was a long-term passion project for the entrepreneur. It was well worth the wait, says Sarah Marshall… They say good things come to those who wait, so it’s no wonder Sir Richard Branson is looking so pleased with himself. He has just unveiled the latest jewel in his […]
Discover heritage hotspots on your doorstep
Be a tourist in your own area for free during the forthcoming Heritage Open Days events, which are taking place in and around Tunbridge Wells from September 8-17. Eileen Leahy caught up with the local event’s co-organiser Caroline Auckland to discover the wonderful historic and cultural gems we can discover for free next month… […]
Ringing the culinary changes
The Eight Bells in Hawkhurst has so much to offer customers, including a delicious seasonal menu, a great beer garden and local craft ales. Eileen Leahy savours a taste of this popular historic hostelry… If you can’t go on holiday this summer, why not get away from it all courtesy of a trip to […]
Speech Bubbles platform helps inspire children’s communication confidence
Eileen Leahy speaks to Trinity Theatre’s Education Producer, Katie Sommers, about its Speech Bubbles programme, both a local and county-wide initiative, which helps young schoolchildren develop their speech and language skills… This academic year, Trinity Theatre has taken its Speech Bubbles programme (originated by London Bubble) across the county, working with 69 schools and […]
In a spin: why this DJ believes music can bring people together and also inspire them
As part of its 18th anniversary celebrations, the Local & Live festival, which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend at Calverley Grounds and various satellite sites, is featuring its first DJ set, courtesy of Marcel Mendez. Eileen Leahy spoke to the local DJ, who works on a global stage… So Marcel, when […]
Stress less, live longer
Qualified local hypnotherapist Karen Martin reveals the inflammatory effects of stress and anxiety, and suggests that by adopting a more positive, healthier mindset this can help create better habits and a more relaxed you… The biochemistry of stress and anxiety is inflammatory, and inflammatory diseases in their many and varied forms tend to kill […]
Show your appreciation
Yoga and well-being expert Lucy Parker of FLOW Tunbridge Wells reveal her top tips on how to begin practising daily gratitude… I’m sure you’ve heard that gratitude can make you feel better, but have you ever considered practising it daily in order to help you lead a happier and healthier life? Scientists are busy […]
The heat is on
With heatwaves and hosepipe bans becoming more and more frequent, Tim Sykes of Gardenproud reveals why drought-tolerant gardens could be the way forward… After the severe drought of last summer and the heatwaves happening this summer, plus the hosepipe ban, all garden lovers must be wondering how on earth their precious outdoor spaces are […]