Staying In

Hydrate The Right Way

In the world of wellness, even staying hydrated has become complicated. Water underpins almost every physiological process in the body, from maintaining blood volume and transporting nutrients to digestion, cognitive function and temperature regulation. But does that mean we should all be aiming for six to eight glasses a day? Nutritional therapist Eve Kalinik suggests that thirst is a more sophisticated guide than we give it credit for. ‘The six to eight glasses rule is a useful baseline, but hydration needs vary hugely depending on body size, activity levels, diet and environment. A more practical approach is to use thirst alongside urine colour – pale straw is a good sign you’re well-hydrated.’ She also points out that hydration isn’t just about water. ‘Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and magnesium help regulate how fluid moves in and out of cells. Without adequate electrolytes – especially when you’re sweating or under stress – water alone isn’t always enough.’ That said, she believes electrolyte supplements have been somewhat overmarketed. ‘Most people eating a balanced diet will meet their needs through food; vegetables, fruits, dairy, nuts and even a pinch of mineral-rich sea salt can go a long way.’ As for tap water, she is reassuring. ‘In the UK, tap water is generally safe and well-regulated. A simple carbon filter can reduce chlorine by-products and improve taste, which encourages better hydration overall.’ Camilla Hewitt

Going Out

Try New Cotswolds Restaurant LARDON

If a summer trip to the Cotswolds is on the horizon, be sure to check out new restaurant LARDON at Elkstone Studios in Cheltenham. The European-inspired eatery is inspired by Tuscany, the Basque Country and Provence, with the menu spanning everything from Cantabrian anchovies to handmade pasta and wood-fired fish. A dedicated ‘from the flames’ section, meanwhile, includes the likes of Iberican-style pork belly, wood-fired cod and long horn beef bavette, alongside salads of burrata and grilled peach, and dressed crab with avocado and croutons. Aside from the food, Elkstone Studios makes a lovely day out with its wellness spaces and wide-ranging programme of events – think candle-making, pizza pop-ups, yoga and more. Interested? Don’t miss our competition, where we’re giving you the chance to win a three-course dinner at LARDON for six, with drinks included. elkstone-studios.com

Property Of The Day

Designed by John Wood The Elder – the man behind Bath’s most iconic architecture, including The Royal Crescent – the interiors of this country pile haven’t always been so refined. Working through various incarnations as a religious institution, school, offices and a care home, this historic home has now been restored to its former glory. 

On the market for £5,950,000, search.savills.com

Little Luxury

If you’re in the middle of doing up your home right now, you’ll want to pay attention to Liberty’s new collaboration with pre-loved marketplace Vinterior. Tapping the brains of Liberty’s Head of Design (Home & Interiors), Genevieve Bennett, Vinterior carefully sourced a selection of vintage furniture pieces that were then reimagined using some of the department store’s most iconic fabrics. Spanning sofas, chairs, lamps and footstools, this is a collection that shows how heritage and vintage can come together to create something seriously chic for your home. Our pick? The Vico Magistretti C1960s Carimate Chair In Liberty’s Mount Stitch In Acacia. £1250, vinterior.co

Competition Time

Fancy a city escape complete with great food, great drink and great views across London? This competition gives you the chance to win a two-night stay at Andaz London Liverpool Street, including daily breakfast at Eastway Brasserie, one three-course dinner with drinks at Rake’s Café Bar, and a drink at Lady Abercorn’s Pub & Kitchen. 

Psssst…

The V&A has announced its line-up of exhibitions for 2027. Among the highlights there’s a big show on the punk movement, which will explore the creative explosion across music, art and fashion from 1972 – 1985. Find out what else is coming up here.

Whatever You Do, Don’t

Barbecue in London parks during the heatwave – the London Fire Brigade has warned that dry grass caused by periods of hot weather can lead to wildfires starting and spreading fast. Most parks have a blanket ban on barbecues year-round, but the last few remaining outdoor grilling spots like Cantelowes Gardens, Russell Square and Lincoln’s Inn Fields are now not permitting them either.

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