What's On 5 Jan NEW

Ellie Smith
January 05, 2025

Dear Reader,

And a happy new year to you all. I’d like to share two good reads I had over the holiday. First is Maurice and Maralyn – quite the most perfect book I’ve read in a long time, and the one I would recommend gifting to everyone you know. A normal British couple, a voyage, a whale, a survival story (four months at sea!) – but ultimately a tale of resilience, love and loss – faultless ingredients of course. Utterly extraordinary (and surprisingly ordinary) – and beautifully written. Second is Alexei Navalny’s autobiography Patriot, which I’m nearly through. Despite the subject matter – and it’s crazy to think he only died in February last year – his book is full of warmth, humour and insight into not just the Russian state but the Russian people. How those who can’t bear the regime must feel his loss.

Have a great week.

WHAT’S EXCITING ME THIS WEEK

Micro Workouts

Fitness goals set for 2025? I’m definitely down to do more yoga… As I approach my 50th, I’m feeling far less flexible so that’s my focus. But as ever, it’s all about time, which is why I’m intrigued to know whether a wee little workout is better than nothing at all. Read on.

BBC/Studio Lambert/Euan Cherry

Traitors Is Back!

And we’re off… three episodes in and I’m already chomping at the bit for next Wednesday. Armani’s rapid discovery as a traitor was inevitable – she was just too loud – but what will become of her sister?

What’s On In The West End?

Like my two books, I have two theatre recommendations upcoming. The RSC’s Kyoto is coming to town from Stratford and I’ve been told by anyone who’s seen it, it is quite extraordinary. I’m also down to see the Royal Court’s Roald Dahl play Giant which transfers to the West End this spring. More recommendations here.

FIVE THINGS NOT TO MISS

Getty Images

Make like the French and enjoy a slice of galette des rois, a culinary tradition enjoyed on 6 January to mark the Epiphany.

Chase away the January blues with a trip to The Village Bike, the newest concept store from British designer Anya Hindmarch. Opening 8 January

Trying your hand at Veganuary this year? It won’t feel like a chore when you’re tucking into a tasty meal at one of London’s best plant-based restaurants.

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Kickstart your 2025 health kick by signing up to a running race – here are some of our top picks, from Newcastle to Lapland.

Be one of the first in at La Môme London, The Berkeley’s glitzy new restaurant hailing from the French Riviera.

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