Staying In

Make Your Bathroom A Wellness Haven

A few years ago, decent shower pressure and a generous-sized bathtub were considered the ultimate bathroom indulgences. But now our powder rooms are levelling up. ‘Today, the bathroom is enjoying something of a glow-up and is being reimagined as a space for restoration, rather than just routine washing,’ writes Busola Evans. ‘The most contemporary designs have wellness in mind and as a result, weave in thoughtful materials and quietly sophisticated technology. So welcome to the new world of showers infused with vitamin light, compact infrared saunas and lighting to support your circadian rhythm.’ Take a peek between the steam rooms, sunshowers and smart mirrors to see how interiors experts are upgrading their bathrooms.

Going Out

Attend Chelsea Flower Show

May in London is synonymous with Chelsea Flower Show, the world’s most prestigious gardening event which sees the grounds of Royal Hospital Chelsea taken over by dazzling blooms and greenery each spring. It returns this week, kicking off the social season with five days of innovative landscaping and garden design – attracting thousands of guests including A-listers and royalty. Highlights for 2026 include the Saatchi Gallery’s garden created with kinetic artist Lucy Gregory and designer Naomi Ferrett-Cohen, and The King’s Foundation Curious Garden designed by Frances Tophill (with contributions from the King himself as well as David Beckham). Plus, don’t miss Chelsea in Bloom: the free public art festival which runs alongside the flower show, with floral installations popping up all over the neighbourhood. And here’s where to eat nearby. 19 – 23 May

Property Of The Day

A Benedictine nunnery turned manor house turned country house hotel, Studley Priory was once a favourite meeting spot of the Inklings society – the famous literary club headed up by C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Now a private home once more, this 11-bedroom manor includes 10 reception rooms, a metamorphic maze and ponds inspired by a Spanish palace. 

On the market for £6,500,000. Find out more at knightfrank.co.uk

Little Luxury

Having a night in? If it’s relaxation you’re after, spend the evening indulging in The White Company’s recently refreshed Spa Escape collection. You’ll find the brand’s beloved spa candles, diffusers and fragrances, alongside a brand new Cleansing Exfoliator – designed to strip and rehydrate the skin in one fell swoop – and Glow & Shimmer mist, which leaves skin dewy and glowing. The collection shares the same fragrance family: top notes of ripe peach and orange blossom, offset by a soft vanilla base. The perfect addition to your at-home self-care routine. Spa Escape Collection, from £15, thewhitecompany.com

Competition Time

A cosy Cotswolds stay is calling. Here’s your chance to win a bed and breakfast stay in the new Tree Houses at Calcot & Spa, including dinner, a bottle of house wine and full access to the spa facilities. 

Psssst…

Finland is inviting 16 lucky travellers to discover its exceptional culinary scene through two all-expenses-paid trips taking place in September 2026. Visit Finland’s Official Tasting Table will see guests embarking on a four-day journey around the country’s top foodie regions, culminating in a special dining experience. Interested? You can apply by sharing a short video on social media – find out more here.

Whatever You Do, Don’t

Take a dip in an outdoor bathing site without checking its cleanliness rating first – there have been over 6,000 reports of sickness caused by swimming in polluted waters in the UK over the past five years. The Environment Agency regularly tests designated wild swimming sites throughout the summer; you can check how a spot fares via the GOV.UK website.