What's On 10 August

Ellie Smith
August 10, 2025

Dear Reader,

Holiday time means grovelling gratitude for books. I’ve said before in this newsletter that my reading has waned over the years (phone, focus, fatigue, family) and my reading list has steadily dwindled (I’m looking forward to former Observer Magazine editor Harriet Green’s feature coming up on the subject – check out her Linkedin post, which garnered an incredible 653 comments, so I’m not alone). What keeps the flame alive (and gives me hope!) is that I really can get stuck in when I’m away. I’ve just finished Chloe Dalton’s Raising Hare. With suncream sticky fingers I folded corners of pages I wanted to revisit, to imbibe, to let sink in, to remember. As a treatise on humans and our relationship with the natural world and our place – and responsibility – in it, I don’t think it can be bettered. It was also longlisted for this year’s Women’s Prize for Fiction, which we’re celebrating at the inaugural Chelsea Arts Festival on Sunday 21 September – book your tickets here.

Have a great week.

WHAT’S ON MY MIND THIS WEEK

Ottolenghi Ice Cream Has Landed In Waitrose

Now this is truly exciting… What flavours can we expect from Yotam Ottolenghi, the man who transformed the way so many of us cook now? Well, I’ll be digging my spoon deep into Madagascan Vanilla & Miso Salted Caramel, shortly followed by Coffee & Cardamom. This is pure summer happiness.

©pasco.photography

Who Actually Needs A Digital Detox? (Clue: All Of Us)

If Chloe Dalton’s book doesn’t do it for you, read up on why and how we should seek to create time and space away from our phones. A whole industry is growing out of it, naturally. We like to create problems – and follow up with solutions. Such is the human condition.

The One That Got Away

Prince Harry’s former girlfriend, Cressida Bonas surmised correctly that marrying into the royal family would come at a hefty cost. Now, happily married and with two children, she chats all things motherhood with C&TH.

FIVE THINGS NOT TO MISS

You can ride the Golden Arrow Pullman train for just £10 with Uber’s latest initiative – which ends with a vineyard tasting. Don’t miss out on tickets when they drop tomorrow.

Are you part of the growing London dining brigade that prefers a 5pm booking? Here are the capital’s best early bird restaurant deals to make the most of.

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See what it’s like to be famous for the day at FAME*FACTORY, a new immersive experience brought to life by cinematic production and a cast of actors.

After its initial run in January, Coldplay’s immersive film is returning to Lightroom London to tie in with the band’s upcoming shows at Wembley.

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Heading to Edinburgh for the Fringe? A local chef shares his top recommendations for where to eat in the Scottish city.

WHAT'S TRENDING ON C&TH

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Win A Luxurious Escape To Ansty Hall, Coventry

Ever tried a high chai afternoon tea? Now’s your chance. We’re offering you the opportunity to win an overnight visit to Ansty Hall in Coventry, including a complimentary three-course meal and bottle of wine.