What's On 22 August

Ellie Smith
August 24, 2025

Dear Reader,

I remember the first time I pointed out to my then small children how they would never ever be allowed a phone at the dinner table. We were on holiday in the Austrian Alps (I was flying solo with a four and a six-year-old), having a lovely buffet supper (ice creams loaded with M&Ms and caramel sauce). I shushed them and pointed surreptitiously (and snobbily) at a table across the way. ‘You will never be like them,’ I said pompously (and quietly). The parents had both their offspring propped up at the table with iPads, plugged into Spongebob Squarepants headphones. They could only have been about five. I thought to myself, ‘This is the end of society,’ before digging out the chocolate bits from the ice cream – and refreshing my news app under the table. Now, restaurants are helping even us grownups fight back with a steep rise in ‘phone-free dining’. Would you hand over your mobile for a great meal?

Have a great week.

WHAT’S ON MY MIND THIS WEEK

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Trinny Woodall x eBay’s Ultimate Designer Sale

I’m on the committee for this sale, so I can vouch that you will be able to buy some very serious style for some insanely decent prices. Expect pre-loved and new pieces from Chanel, Prada, Loewe and more, alongside donations from celebrity wardrobes (even Claudia Winkleman’s Traitors coat!). Proceeds support The King’s Trust’s Change a Girl’s Life campaign. 10-11 October. Tickets here.

Sea Moss: Superfood Or Just Hype?

Spirulina’s got a new rival. Sea moss is the latest wellness craze making waves (ho ho), but we asked a nutritionist whether it really deserves a place in your smoothie. Get the lowdown here.

Rivals 2: Everything We Know So Far

The glossy world of Jilly Cooper’s Rivals will be back – we’re just not sure quite when. With new twists, heaps of saucy drama and new characters including the delicious Hayley Atwell, playing Rupert’s ex wife Helen, here’s everything you need to know.

FIVE THINGS NOT TO MISS

London’s hottest new hotel is soon to open its doors, The Chancery Rosewood. Be first in to see it by booking a table at one of the restaurants.

Anya Hindmarch’s latest pop-up is a back-to-school themed tuck shop – think nostalgic pencil cases and quirky bag charms.

Nab last minute tickets to Battersea Park in Concert: open-air live music shows backdropped by the historic park, complete with gourmet picnic hampers. 24 and 25 August

Get excited about the return of Bake Off by treating yourself to at-home afternoon tea courtesy of Mary Berry, who has created a new hamper for Fortnum & Mason.