lifestyle Archives - Fleet, Hartley Wintney, Odiham McCarthy Holden Estate Agents

Village House Sales Boost In Odiham and Hartley Wintney

March 18, 2026 by John Holden

HARTLEY WINTNEY High Street copyright McCarthy Holden

This week has seen an impressive uplift in both exchanges and buyer demand for village properties, particularly across our Hartley Wintney and Odiham branches.

Activity has been strong across a broad range of price brackets, from £500,000 to £1.250m. Notably, contracts have exchanged on a number of properties in both central village locations and more rural settings on the outskirts, including sought-after areas such as Long Sutton and Crondall.

A selection of characterful and distinctive homes have recently exchanged contracts, including the following fine properties:

Why Live in Odiham or Hartley Wintney

Hartley Wintney offers an appealing blend of village charm, excellent amenities and strong transport connections. Ideally located near the M3 and A30, it benefits from fast rail links to London via Hook and Winchfield, as well as convenient access to Basingstoke, Reading and the wider M4 corridor—making it particularly attractive for commuters.

The village itself is rich in character, with a picturesque historic centre, period architecture and a vibrant high street. Landmarks such as the cricket green and duck pond are much-loved features that contribute to its distinctive sense of place.

Beyond the centre, the surrounding countryside offers extensive opportunities for walking, cycling and riding, alongside nearby golf courses and leisure facilities that support an active outdoor lifestyle.

Sharing many of these qualities, Odiham combines historical charm with a strong sense of community, excellent connectivity and easy access to open countryside.

Its historic high street, lined with period buildings, is widely regarded as one of the most characterful and quintessential in Hampshire.

From a buyer’s perspective, Odiham offers a diverse range of properties—from charming period cottages to modern family homes—appealing to first-time buyers, families and downsizers alike. On the outskirts, there are also some exceptional country homes.

With its relaxed pace of life and strong community feel, Odiham offers an excellent quality of living.

The village also has a close association with RAF Odiham, with Chinook helicopters often providing striking and memorable sights overhead.

Thinking of Moving?

If you are looking to find a home in a village or country setting, explore our latest properties through our search page. Alternatively, if you are a homeowner in these areas, contact your nearest branch for a free valuation or appraisal.

How the Colour Palette in Your Home Can Affect Your Mood

February 26, 2026 by Sam Holden

The colours you surround yourself with every day quietly influence how you think, feel, and behave. While furniture and layout shape function, colour shapes emotion. From calming blues to energising yellows, your home’s palette can either support your wellbeing — or subtly work against it.

Understanding how colour affects mood allows you to design spaces that feel intentional, balanced, and aligned with how you want to live.

Blue: Calm, Focus, and Emotional Ease

Blue is widely associated with tranquillity and stability. Lighter shades create an airy, open feeling, while deeper tones like navy feel grounded and secure. Psychologically, blue can slow the heart rate and encourage relaxation, which is why it works so well in bedrooms and bathrooms.

In workspaces, softer blues can also improve concentration and mental clarity. However, very dark or cool-toned blues may feel distant if not balanced with warm lighting or natural textures.

Yellow: Warmth, Optimism, and Energy

Yellow carries the warmth of sunlight and tends to evoke positivity and energy. In kitchens and dining areas, it can create a welcoming, sociable atmosphere. In creative spaces, it may spark inspiration and mental stimulation.

That said, intensity matters. Soft buttery tones feel uplifting and gentle, while overly bright yellows can become overwhelming over time. The key is moderation and thoughtful placement.

Green: Balance and Restoration

Green sits at the centre of the colour spectrum and is one of the most restful shades for the human eye. Because it is strongly linked to nature, it often promotes a sense of renewal and harmony.

Soft greens such as sage or eucalyptus can make a bedroom feel calm and restorative. Richer shades like emerald introduce depth and sophistication while still maintaining a sense of balance. Green is particularly effective in living spaces where relaxation and connection are priorities.

Red: Passion and Stimulation

Red is emotionally intense and physically stimulating. It can increase energy levels and encourage

conversation, which makes it well suited to dining rooms and social spaces.

Because red is so powerful, it is often most effective as an accent colour. Used thoughtfully — perhaps on a feature wall or in décor elements — it adds warmth and vibrancy without overwhelming the room.

Neutrals: Space to Breathe

Neutral tones such as white, beige, taupe, and soft grey create a sense of simplicity and calm. They allow a room to feel open and uncluttered, offering visual rest in a busy world.

However, neutrals are not automatically soothing. Cool, stark whites can feel clinical, while overly flat greys may appear dull. Texture, layered lighting, and natural materials are essential to bring warmth and dimension into a neutral space.

The Power of the Overall Palette

Individual colours matter, but the overall composition of your palette shapes the emotional atmosphere of a home. Cool-toned schemes tend to feel restful and serene. Warmer combinations create energy and sociability. High contrast adds drama and stimulation, while monochromatic layering produces cohesion and calm.

Lighting also plays a significant role. Natural daylight softens and clarifies colour, while artificial lighting can dramatically shift undertones. Testing samples at different times of day is always wise.

Designing with Intention

Choosing a colour palette should begin with a simple question: how do you want to feel in this space? A bedroom might prioritise calm and comfort, while a dining room might benefit from warmth and vibrancy. A home office may require clarity and focus.

When colour choices align with the purpose of a room, your home becomes more than visually appealing — it becomes emotionally supportive. Thoughtful use of colour can improve rest, boost creativity, enhance sociability, and create an atmosphere that feels authentically yours.

Ultimately, colour is not just decoration. It is a powerful tool that shapes your everyday experience in subtle but meaningful ways.

Early Signs Of High End Property Sales In the Blue Triangle Area

February 26, 2026February 26, 2026 by John Holden

PEATMOOR BLUE TRIANGLE SOLD MCCARTHY HOLDEN

“There are some impressive house sales occurring in early 2026 in the Blue Tringle area of Fleet, witnessed by two completions which have happened in recent days, one guided at £2.350m and the second £1.75m. It appears that the 2025 uncertainty around top end stamp duty is well and truly consigned to history now,” reports director at McCarthy Holden Richard Ebsworth.

Why Fleet?

As a company, we know that Fleet is a fantastic place to live with and we always see a good level of people moving out of London to settle in Fleet. High buyer demand is not surprising because not only is the town a great place to raise a family, but for those working from home or for those buyers who commute into the City, travel connectivity is great with the M3 or Fleet mainline railway station on our doorstep. Once established in Fleet, people continually up-size and downsize but tend to remain within the area.

Highly Sought After Blue Triangle Area

The outlook for house sales in the Blue Triangle in 2026 is one of a stable market with increased interest from buyers. For those contemplating a house sale, vendors can be confident in the potential of finding plenty of buyers willing to secure their dream home.

So if you are thinking of a house sale this year, please do consider inviting McCarthy Holden to provide you with a free no obligation valuation / property appraisal.

Experience Makes The Negotiating Difference

Our research shows that experienced personnel and high quality marketing, combined with a competitive fee level are the main reasons why house sellers chose McCarthy Holden, so below is a reminder of just a few of the reasons why we remain the agent of choice in the Blue Triangle.

• Experienced property professionals
• Property video tours – increased web engagement
• In The Country & Town Magazine
• In branch TV marketing
• Social media marketing campaigns
• Email campaigns to our 5,000 strong database
• Well connected – Mayfair Office London
• Established level of buyers
• Professional integrity and honest service delivery

Experienced personnel make a significant difference to the delivery of estate agency services, from the initial marketing through to the judgements needed around negotiating a sale and getting the transaction to exchange of contracts.

At McCarthy Holden in Fleet we have a long established and very experienced team.

Richard Ebsworth (Director): Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for 22 years and has around 30 years of estate agency / property experience.

Victoria Davies (Manager): Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for over 15 years and is one of our top performing managers year in year out.

Amalia Moruzzi-Lee (Property Consultant): Has worked at McCarthy Holden for 6 years and is one of our top performing house sale personnel.

Pedro Barros (Assistant Manager): With over 10 years of local knowledge in Fleet and the surrounding areas, Pedro combines 24+ years of sales negotiation experience to deliver outstanding results for his clients.

Henry David (Negotiator): Having grown up in Fleet, Henry has a good knowledge of the local area and he is confident and focused on achieving a high level of house sales.

Joanne Byford: Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for over 14 years as a property viewer / sales negotiator.

Louise Looijestijn: Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for over 12 years as a property viewer / sales negotiator.

Candice Walmsley: Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for 12 years as a property viewer / sales negotiator.

Candice Walmsley: Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for 12 years as a property viewer / sales negotiator.

Marianne Hascher: Lives in Fleet and has worked at McCarthy Holden for 5 years as a property viewer / sales negotiator.

Sophie Roberts: Lives in Farnborough and works at McCarthy Holden as an Administrator.

Harriett LLoyd: Lives in Fleet and works at McCarthy Holden as an Administrator

Our long established and experienced property sales team at our Fleet branch

Telephone 01252 62024

I’m a parent, how worried should I be about AI?

February 23, 2026 by Sam Holden

There is cause for concern, say the experts, but don’t panic.

Managing your child’s screen time and keeping the dinner table phone-free can feel like more than enough digital-related stress. AI though? That brings with it all new potential terrors that lots of parents would, understandably, rather ignore. But if we’re to protect our children and help them navigate AI, we must get to grips with it, say the experts.

“There is a fear of the unknown because AI is moving so quickly, potentially moving faster than childhood itself,” says Jake Moore, global cybersecurity advisor at software company ESET. “We’ve got parents who don’t necessarily understand AI, and then we’ve got children growing up with it.”

This leaves a gap, and parents can end up being “pushed further and further” away from the new technology. “We don’t want a world of technophobe parents,” says Moore. “We want parents to understand what their kids are going through.”

“Parents do need to be alert, but not alarmed [by AI],” says Yasmin London, child digital safety and wellbeing lead at digital safeguarding firm Qoria. “They need to develop their own AI literacy on what their kids might be exposed to.”

Four key concerns

With AI regulation from the Government lagging, parents need an idea of the risks their kids might face…

1. AI companions

Big tech used to be interested in the ‘attention economy’, but now it’s moving into the ‘attachment economy’, which is where AI companions come in. Sites like Nomi are being used by kids to “create any avatar they want and use that avatar as a friend,” explains London. “Kids perhaps who are vulnerable, feeling lonely, struggling with self-esteem or real-world relationships, might find themselves attracted to a chatbot like that because they constantly reiterate positive comments to them and mirror and validate them,” she continues. “While that can seem nice for them in the beginning, it can isolate kids further, and cause concerns around their critical thinking ability and relationship skills.”

2. Deepfakes

Parents might have heard about Grok, but kids have been using AI for some time to create images, “whether for fun or more malicious purposes, and sometimes those are sexual in nature, which could lead them down a very problematic route with legalities,” says London. “They’re not always intended to harm, but the outcome for a victim, if there’s a deepfake created of them in an embarrassing position, something that might perhaps even be defamatory, that can be a really big problem.”

3. Unrealistic beauty standards

“AI definitely disproportionately impacts young girls,” flags London. “A lot of them follow Instagram accounts that are just an AI avatar, but they look so hyper-realistic, girls still compare themselves to these unrealistic beauty standards.” This can “impact their worldview, their wellbeing”.

4. Misinformation

For boys, there’s fears around them being “sucked into a manosphere, radicalisation and incel culture”. “AI can certainly be used to scale harm in those ways, as well as to share fake information,” says London. “If a young person starts to search for that content over and over again, like any other AI, it will learn what they like, and start to share whatever information is fed into it, which may or may not be very accurate.”

How to protect your kids

The first thing to do, says Moore, is: “Download every app your kids are using, whether you like it or not. Start with things like Snapchat.” It might feel like you’re awkwardly trying to get down with the kids, but “if you adapt and communicate with your kids on the apps they are using, they will actually have more respect for you. And then, if you go through the settings, you might just be able to offer them a few tips on their privacy and security, which, if you’ve got the app, it’s much easier to talk about because you’re talking in their language and saying the right things”.

From there, you can move into trickier areas like AI. “Let’s all learn together, regardless of what generation you are,” says Moore.

London also recommends parents apply the ‘ABC model’. “A stands for managing access. So for kids, if they’re using an AI, firstly, let’s make sure it’s age-appropriate, so young kids certainly shouldn’t be using chatbots, ChatGPT and companion apps if we can avoid it,” she notes. “B stands for boundaries, and this is the difficult thing for all parents, but it’s about implementing and staying consistent with rules around technology use, whether it be AI, gaming or messaging.

“C is for communication,” she continues. “Having safe, trusted adults they can speak to is the number one protective factor when it comes to the online world.”

Try to be open to AI too. “Your children are likely going to have jobs that incorporate AI, so by learning it now, when they need your help, you’ll be able to understand what their troubles might be, or how to make their life more efficient,” encourages Moore.

And London warns against demonising new tech, as banning it can push your kids away from you, not AI. “We know that we thrive as humans when we’re active, out in nature, having a real life laugh with our friends,” she says. “It’s all about balance.”

Heart-shaped flowers and foliage to mark the season of romance

February 9, 2026 by Sam Holden

As Valentines Day approaches, who needs roses when there are so many other plants of the heart to choose from?

The season of romance is here, but if you’re yawning at the thought – and cost – of red roses, there’s a mass of other plants which spell love for both outdoor gardeners and houseplant lovers.

Take a look at some of the plants with heart-shaped leaves and flowers which can last a lot longer than a dozen red roses.

Bleeding heart

This beautiful, dainty-looking heart-filled perennial, also known as Lamprocapnos spectabilis (reclassified from dicentra), produces arching stems hung with heart-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer. Growing to around 90cm, they look beautiful in semi shade as each stem produces lines of these little romantic blooms. For those who aren’t fans of pink or red, there are also white varieties (‘Alba’), all of which look beautiful with low-lying plants such as saxifrages and hellebores.

Growing tips: They like cool, moist, sheltered situations, but will also do well in a sunny border. However, keeping them out of the heat of the day and making sure the soil is moist are likely to extend their flowering period. They will form clumps which will last for years and don’t like to be moved.

Hoya kerrii

Also known as the sweetheart plant, thanks to its heart-shaped fleshy succulent leaves, you can pick up this this popular houseplant in all its romantic glory at most garden centres, where a single heart-shaped leaf cutting will form the stand-alone attraction.

A native of Thailand and south China, it can, given the right conditions, fill pots with its thick, leathery love heart leaves. However, be aware that if you buy one which is just a heart-shaped leaf planted in a pot, most won’t grow into a full plant because they are not true stem cuttings. If you want one that’s going to grow properly you’ll need to find a plant with a properly rooted stem and visible other leaves. Mature plants can produce star-shaped cream and red flowers.

Growing tips: Never over-water this succulent. Only water it when the soil feels really dry and don’t water the leaves, only the soil. Keep it in a light position out of direct sunlight and don’t put it near radiators or in draughty spots. And if you want to have more chance of it lasting, buy a more mature plant.

String of hearts (Ceropegia woodii)

Native to South Africa and Zimbabwe, this trailing succulent houseplant produces thin wiry stems carrying heart-shaped grey leaves with pinkish undersides. It’s ideal for trailing down off shelving or a hanging pot, maybe alongside other trailers, such as string of pearls and string of dolphins.

Growing tips: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and never let the roots sit in water or you’ll kill the plant. If the leaves start to yellow, cut off the damaged foliage and don’t water until the soil is really dry. Feed with a houseplant fertiliser twice a year and keep the plant in a light, bright spot out of direct sunlight, turning it from time to time so all the stems get sufficient light.

Anthurium andraeanum

Native to South America and the Caribbean, and also known as the flamingo flower, this tropical-looking houseplant’s heart-shaped red waxy flowers (also known as spathes) and central yellow or cream spikes are instantly recognisable and add a huge splash of colour to any indoor area. You can also find pink, orange and white varieties.

Growing tips: They come from warm, humid parts of the world so try to imitate those conditions. Place them in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight in fast-draining peat-free acidic soil and water them with rainwater, preferably at room temperature, allowing the top third of the soil to dry out between waterings. Don’t water them with cold tap water or you will shock them. To maintain humidity, they may be best off in a bathroom, or alternatively mist the leaves regularly.

Indoor cyclamen

A great alternative to a Valentines bouquet, the dainty flowers – in shades of red, pink and white – atop pretty green and grey heart-shaped leaves should last longer than many other floral gifts, maybe even up to six weeks.

Growing tips: Keep it cool if you want it to survive. It won’t thank you being put near a radiator. If frost isn’t forecast, you could even put it in its pot on a covered porch or in an unheated conservatory or greenhouse. Again, don’t overwater, waiting until the pot has partially dried out, and water from below, putting the pot into a shallow bowl of water and letting the soil absorb the water, but make sure you drain the pot thoroughly after watering.

4 simple styling tricks to put a stamp on your space

February 2, 2026 by Sam Holden

From ambient lighting to shelving and rug rules, pro tips to enhance your decor. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

Flick through any glossy interiors magazine and it’s easy to get carried away with what’s trending; especially with a string of decorative ideas to spur your creativity.

But it can be a bit of a reality check, and you end up asking yourself: How can I express myself so it’s about me… as much as it is the decor?

Given all this – and depending on your design ethos – Lara Clarke of Lara Clarke Interiors says it’s about taking a personal approach with clients: “It’s a collaborative process – instead of putting our style on you, we pull your style out.

“We work with you to try and create something that’s essentially yours and unique, and not a carbon copy of everything else.”

From how you live, to a fabric you love, to where you’re going to be sitting with a cup of tea in the morning, the Surrey-based designer says those sorts of things are really important.

“We get into the nitty gritty detail… how this home is going to work for you as a family, and how it’s going to work best for you – and not for anyone else.”

An advocate of how simple styling tricks make a room feel more expressive, Clarke shares her top tips to inspire creatives and interior enthusiasts…

1. Layered lighting

One of the key things is lighting. “A lot of people might just have downlights; but if you layer your lighting, it makes a huge difference.”

Clarke suggests using a rechargeable wall lighting – flexible and cordless, simply mount a bracket or use strong adhesive – think brass sconce and decorative shade.

“You just put it on your wall, and instantly you’ll have some wall lights… it’s a great way to layer lighting in your home.”

“Table lamps are another one,” suggests Clarke. “On a table, go for a different lampshade.”

So if you buy a table lamp from John Lewis for example, she suggests choosing your own designer lampshade. “It elevates that lamp in a way an ordinary, plain white shade wouldn’t.”

She also prefers to add colour. If you’re not painting the walls and want to refresh your space by influencing the mood, Clarke says it’s another tool to add colour and pattern.

“I like using coloured lampshades in my designs, I kind of link with the scheme… a plain white one can be boring; but a patterned lampshade makes a big difference.”

2. Shelving & placement

To style your shelves and place accessories just so, the designer says it’s good to have a mixture of taller things, think photos, books, and suggests including some flowers within the scheme.

“Sometimes people tend to stuff it full when actually less is more.”

And if you’re torn between symmetry and scale, it’s an equilibrium. “So if you’re looking at a shelf or bookcase as a hole, there will be some elements of symmetry.

“But you don’t want everything to be symmetrical, because then it will feel too staged, there needs to be a balance between both.”

Clarke likes to do a mixture. “I put a lot of books flat, and then it’s nice to have something on top of them.

“If you have some books you want to balance, and they’re stacked on top of one another, then balance that with an object, vase or candle on top.”

3. The secret to scatter cushions

“I think cushions is one of those massive areas where it can completely change the look of your room,” highlights Clarke.

“The key is to get a quality cushion with a good plump; you can buy cushions from the high street, but they won’t have a nice feather insert.”

Therefore, if you’re buying a cushion cover, she says to buy a feather insert one size bigger. “So you stuff it, and then your cushion looks fuller than if you were to buy the corresponding insert which normally looks a bit flat.

“It makes the cushion look more expensive, I like a very plump cushion, it’s more luxurious rather than something limp on the sofa,” she quips.

Moreover, Clarke says you can never have too many cushions. “It’s a really good way to add colour and interest to potentially a plain sofa.”

4. Rug rules

When it comes to do’s and don’ts, the designer says a lot of people always buy a rug too small for the space. “And actually, it makes the space look a bit smaller if anything.

“So you want to oversize your rug… you don’t want it to look like a doormat under your coffee table.”

Ideally, she says to have most of the furniture sitting on it. “So that would be your sofa, your side tables, your accent chairs, if possible – but if in doubt, bigger is better.”

“You want to zone the space by including the furniture within that,” she says confidently.

Why 2026 kitchens are all about warmth and comfort

January 22, 2026 by Sam Holden

If you’re looking at your kitchen in a whole new light, and thinking about a different theme or concept, there’s a growing movement towards spaces that prioritise comfort and warmth.

“Think muted tones, soft furnishings, and a modern take on traditional design,” says Looeeze Grossman, founder of The Used Kitchen Company.

“Homeowners are looking for kitchens they actually enjoy being in, not just ones that look good on social media.”

Think relaxed, casual and harmonious blend of traditional and modern. Here’s how to create a space which feels congenial and bang up-to-date…

Painted kitchens

“The days of high gloss finishes are behind us for now,” says Grossman. “Painted kitchens have made a huge comeback thanks to their adaptability and timeless quality, whether solid wood or MDF.

“Painted doors in warm, comforting tones set the foundation for this new aesthetic,” explains Grossman.

Look for shaker-style details, vintage or reclaimed handles and warm tones to “create kitchens that look effortlessly chic and packed with warmth”.

Painted kitchens also open up your tile and worktop choices, highlights Grossman. “From wood to striking quartz, composite or porcelain worktops – all pair beautifully.

“Vintage mirrored splashbacks can add a modern twist, as can tiles laid in an intricate herringbone pattern, over the metro tiles [aka subway tiles] we’ve often seen in kitchens in recent years.”

Muted tones

It’s also time to switch out bright white and stark grey worktops. Grossman says she’s seeing a move towards warmer neutral tones.

“The beauty of a cosy kitchen is that everything should work within one colour palette.

“Nothing has to fight for attention, it all blends seamlessly, creating a natural warmth with a combo of paint colours and worktops.”

Moreover, she says bringing in living colours such as greens and beiges gives the space life, especially when used tonally in different shades.

“If you’re opting for a bold splashback or door colour, you can soften the look with blankets and seating cushions in lighter tones,” Grossman suggests.

Lighting is another key aspect, and extends to choosing softer lighting over the brightness of spotlights.

“Think vintage pendants over an island, and lamps on the walls. If you do opt for some spotlights, make sure they’re dimmable to create a warm, inviting atmosphere,” she advises.

Storage

When it comes to cosy storage, Grossman says it’s all about natural materials which complement each other.

“Natural wicker baskets instantly add warmth and texture over harsh plastic or metals.

“Glass jars with cork lids and simple ceramics look extremely attractive for storage on an open shelf; or creating a tidier larder.”

She continues: “Wicker works well for napkins, cutlery, and vegetables that don’t need to be refrigerated; glass and ceramics are ideal for dry ingredients.”

Open shelves

As Grossman points out, cosiness is as much about emotion as it is about design.

“Open shelving lets you display the things that matter… your favourite mugs, or tea set you spent ages finding.

“These are the things that give your kitchen personality and memories that define the cosy trend.”

To get the look, she suggests displaying your vases, showcasing your mug selection, and having stemware on show.

“But don’t mistake this as a time to over-clutter,” she warns. “Cosy kitchens still have style – pick your favourite pieces, add them to your shelves, and enjoy the display.”

Seating should be comfortable

Uncomfortable stools, plastic chairs, or benches without a back don’t belong in a cosy kitchen, underlines Grossman.

If replacing them isn’t an option, she says to soften what you have. “Add upholstered bench pads in soft muted shades that bring warmth and country cottage-style elegance.”

Team with throws and cushions to create a relaxed, welcoming feel. “If you have bar stools, opt for a cushioned topper so people will actually want to sit down.

“And if your kitchen opens onto your garden, match your indoor soft furnishings to your outdoor cushions to create a sense of continuity.”

As Grossman puts it: “A cosy kitchen is a kitchen you’ll want to spend time in – it won’t feel cold or stark.

“You’ll want to light a candle and snuggle up in the corner with a cup of coffee and a good book; or sit chatting for hours over a glass of wine with friends.”

She continues: “It’s about creating an emotional connection to the space that goes beyond just cooking… it’s a space that you want to live and be in.”

Spruce up your gardening wardrobe for winter

November 14, 2025 by Sam Holden

If your gardening wardrobe is looking tired, all bobbly fleeces and leaky wellies, perhaps it’s time to kit yourself out with some clothes and accessories which will wrap you up warm – and look stylish at the same time.

So ditch those gloves with holes, the tired jumpers and the water-holding jeans for some gardening garb which should help keep you dry, warm and comfortable while you are doing those outdoor jobs in the winter months.

Here are a few items to consider:

1. Norber flat cap (Glencroft, £44.95)

Calling all male gardeners: if you aspire to the likes of David Beckham or Vinnie Jones, a well-made flat cap may be for you. This Norber Yorkshire Tweed cotton-lined flat cap is as practical on the allotment as it is elegant in the potting shed.

Made in the north of England from British wool tweed woven in Yorkshire woollen mills, it is lined with Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified 100% cotton for enhanced breathability and is fully quilted for added comfort.

2. Waterproof garden apron (RHS, £32.99)

When the autumn rains fall, you can at least keep your gardening clothes dry, clean and protected if you’re wearing this gardening apron made from khaki waterproof canvas.

With two pockets to hold gloves, seeds and other ephemera so you can keep your hands free for gardening tasks, you can also tie the long waist straps around at the front for a more snug fit.

Just remember to hand wash only with a mild detergent in warm water.

3. Sure & Soft leather gloves (Kent & Stowe and good garden centres, £24.99)

When you’re doing hard tasks like digging, raking and weeding, it makes all the difference to have a pair of comfortable gardening gloves while you work.

These leather gloves are crafted from high-quality super-soft leather and feature a keystone thumb for maximum comfort, reinforced extra stitching for strength and durability and improved dexterity. They should withstand punctures and tears, making them ideal pruning gloves.

4. Women’s National Trust Vierzon Jersey Lined Wellington Boots (Le Chameau and the National Trust, £220)

We’ve all had cheap wellies which end up leaking and cracking, so it might be worth investing in these sublime limited edition boots, created through a collaboration between master bootmaker Le Chameau and the National Trust.

Each pair sold supports the National Trust sites, gardens and coastlines and the boots are inspired by the spaces in the care of the NT.

Made from high-quality Chamolux rubber, with a bespoke print jersey lining made from organic cotton and recycled polyester, a removable antibacterial insole and adjustable straps made from post-consumer recycled bottles, they are their most sustainable boots yet.

The unique Le Chameau/National Trust logo and bespoke lining print, inspired by Buckland Abbey, honours Britain’s natural and cultural heritage.

5. Women’s waterproof gardening trousers (Genus, £169)

Designed for gardening, these Genus waterproof trousers (which are not overtrousers) have a showerproof fabric on the outside and are fully waterproof-lined on the inside so people can still make the most of a very wet day in the garden.

They have handy stab-resistant pockets for secateurs and knives, a breathable padded knee and raised waist for back protection. The quick-drying stretch fabric means you won’t have to put them on the airer for long after a hard day’s digging, planting and composting.

6. Ridgeline Monarch Women’s Gilet (ArdMoor, £79.94)

This snug gilet is ideal for gardening and other outdoor pursuits, with a moleskin finish and durable water-repellent treatment to help keep stains and dirt at bay.

It has practical hand pockets with zips, a secure inner zipped security pocket for personal belongings, and a two-way front-opening zip, adjustable hem and high collar, which adds extra protection against the wind.

On warm autumn days you could wear it as an outer layer on top of a base thermal, while when the weather gets really cold it can be worn under a winter jacket. Available in three garden-friendly tones: Moody Teak, Deep Forest and Navy.

7. Hoggs of Fife Men’s Glenesk Quilted Jacket (Cherry Tree Country Clothing, £76.50)

Any gardener who wants to add style and comfort to his gardening attire should look no further than this snug padded quilted jacket which is crafted from windproof and insulating fabric, with a Teflon finish for durability.

It also has a full-length zip with studded placket cover and two large front pockets which will hold smaller gardening items. Ideal not only for the garden but for autumn walks in the countryside.

8. Chunky Wellington Boot Socks (Town & Country, £9.99)

Keep your toes toasty in these chunky Wellington boot socks in a range of colours, made with Merino wool to offer natural warmth, breathability, and comfort. This natural moisture management helps to keep feet dry and comfortable, and are ideal in colder and wet weather.

How to make Christmas stress-free by preparing food in November

November 7, 2025 by John Holden

Suzanne Mulholland once declared she ‘hated’ Christmas Day – she was the person who ended up organising the entire event, from presents, to decorations and, of course, the food.

“When the kids were little, I actually didn’t like Christmas. I didn’t feel it was my day. I felt like it was everybody else’s day,” the 49-year-old says. “I look back on it now and think I really did miss some key moments where I would have loved being the one sitting just helping build Lego, or whatever it was, but I felt tied to the kitchen.”

To make a busy life with children easier Mulholland started batch cooking, and after sharing videos on YouTube and Instagram, ‘The Batch Lady’ Instagram account was born. With it, the mum-of-two was able to transform Christmas so she wasn’t cooking all day.

“I started to change gradually. I would make sure my roast potatoes were done, but I always felt like there was quite a lot that maybe I couldn’t do in advance. And then over the years, I’ve actually managed to do it all in advance. Everything.

“If you happen to have a Friday morning or a Tuesday evening in November where you’re not doing anything, you can think, actually, I might get four recipes done for Christmas.”

November is the perfect time to start, she says, and buying a lot of your Christmas food in November can help spread the cost.

“You can do it all in November, when you don’t have every other activity going on, like the Christmas fete at school, your kids Carol concert and your work night out. December becomes really busy for us.”

So, getting ahead for the festive period isn’t just about prepping the Christmas Day meal, Mulholland also batch cooks plenty of one-pot meals to freeze and reheat during December.

Mulholland has two types of recipes – “Either you ‘cook ahead’ – which means cooking it and putting it in the freezer, or ‘grab and cook’ which means you’re making it up raw, and then you’re putting it in the freezer,” she explains.

Here’s how to make it work for you this Christmas…

‘Cook ahead’: What to cook, freeze and reheat on the day

Mulholland says accompaniments like bread sauce and cranberry sauce, as well as sides like roast potatoes and Brussel sprouts, can be fully cooked and frozen – far in advance. “I do a lovely shredded Brussels sprout with pancetta, and you actually make that in advance, because it shreds, it lasts.”

Homemade Yorkshire puddings make well in advance to freeze, or try Mulholland’s recipe for mulled wine red cabbage. While the method works well for starters too, think parsnip and apple soup, or desserts like panettone bread and butter pudding.

“The whole point of freezer cooking is that you use recipes that are meant to be frozen. Those recipes are specifically created to make sure that they’re going to be delicious.”

And freezing doesn’t take away from the flavour. “People would be so surprised to know that in the absolute top-end restaurants [chefs] prep in advance. A lot of that will come out of freezers and fridges that have been prepped in advance. A lot of things actually taste better if you’ve cooked them in advance.”

‘Grab and cook’: What to prepare ahead, freeze but cook on the day

While some parts of Christmas can be completely made and frozen, her methods aren’t about doing that for the entire meal. “We’re still cooking Christmas dinner. We’re just not prepping everything from scratch,” explains Mulholland.

“Prepping ahead is really that you’re getting it ready, but you’re not necessarily cooking it. You’re just getting all the ingredients ready together,” she says, for example, mixing the stuffing ingredients and putting into balls, before freezing uncooked, or wrapping the bacon around sausages for pigs in blankets.

“In November, I will make the herby butter [to use under the turkey skin] and wrap it up. I’ll get the pack of streaky bacon and put it beside the herby butter. I’ll make my stuffing mix. Then I’ll get my frozen turkey from the shops and I’ll put it next to it. So I’ve really created this meal prep kit that when I bring it out, it’s defrosting, and I know that everything’s there.

“Roast veg – you parboil them, cover them in oil, put your lovely seasoning over it, and then you flash freeze it [putting it in the freezer for two hours]. You’ve part cooked them. You haven’t cooked [them] to the end and then re-cooked. It’s about prepping everything so it’s ready to come out and be cooked from frozen, but it is being cooked on the day.”

Do this for starters and nibbles too, like pork and stilton sausage rolls, and cheese and chutney straws.

Cold starters, such as chicken liver pate or mushroom and tarragon pate, make easy freezer items too.

Batch cook some additional ‘December dinners’

Make December extra easy by making and freezing some nutritious meals you can take out of the freezer whenever life gets a bit busy. Think pork, parsnip and mustard traybake, Cajun-spiced chicken, or coconut and butternut squash curry.

“[If you know] ‘I’ve got a fish pie in the freezer, and I’m going to put it in the oven tonight’ – that is the easiest thing ever, because you can make a fish pie in three minutes. But if you haven’t done that, your headspace is ‘I don’t know what I’ve got in the house, I don’t know who’s in or who wants to eat. I’ll stop at the shops, I’ll grab whatever, or I’ll grab a takeaway’

“It’s automatically going to cost you more money – and that’s a normal work day. So you take that tenfold into the busiest December, and you are racking up a lot of money and a lot of stress.”

The Batch Lady Saves Christmas by Suzanne Mulholland is published by Ebury Press, priced £25. Photography by Andrew Hayes-Watkins, available now

Some Links To Batch Lady Recipes....

10 ways to style winter berry shades in the home

October 27, 2025 by John Holden

Seasonal and seductive, dark interiors are bearing fruit… so much so, we’re embracing shades of cassis, deep claret and plum, with winter berries are emerging as a firm favourite in the world of interiors.

Such is the surge in popularity, cookware, textiles and accent walls are being reimagined in rich berry tones – with new collections lending warmth, while creating an inviting atmosphere with a sense of luxury.

Indeed, leading interiors firm, Graham & Brown have named their Colour of the Year 2026 Divine Damson, which they describe as a “deep, timeless shade that evokes elegance, luxury and sophistication.”

Cited as a versatile and enduring colour, the inside team of designers say it “enriches a variety of styles and spaces,” and its versatility “makes it suitable all year-round, offering a cocooning, comforting feel in the colder months.”

While in summer, they say natural sunlight “brings out its vibrant depth allowing it to transition seamlessly across the seasons.”

Highlighting rich, bold hues, here’s what’s on our wish list…

Think a comforting autumnal beetroot soup, or red wine casserole, and this is your new centrepiece to chime with supper parties and themed tablescapes. Style with burgundy velvet ribbons on stemware, and a bottle of bordeaux.

As well as adding drama, colour and texture, this Scandi-style dining set makes for a conversation piece with its high-gloss finish, on-trend solid, pillar legs, and cool dining chairs… a dead cert for colour drenching.

This dark and moody motif features exotic birds, blooms and fauna for a dramatic backdrop – and generous dose of high drama. Said to be inspired by ancient textiles, nature and mythology, the design is produced as a double-width set; meaning you need two coordinating rolls for hanging the horizontal repeat pattern… frame the paper with a lick of Divine Damson to link the look

Chic and contemporary, this polished sideboard in a deep shade of cherry, topped with gold tone T-bar handles will enhance any aesthetic.

Upholstered in a plush chenille, these modish bar stools will bring colour and comfort to a kitchen island or trendy home bar.

This vintage-inspired tassel lampshade shouts sumptuous, and can be used to dramatic effect with its gorgeous gold fringing, scalloped detail and rich, burgundy hue.

More than a decorative afterthought, when you want to drink in a smooth merlot or cabernet sauvignon, set the scene for wining and dining with this whimsy wallpaper.

This statement bauble will add instant charm to stylish place settings… and can double up as a napkin holder.

Glamorous and romantic, ruffle-trimmed bedding in beautiful berry tones will luxe up any bedroom scheme – and who wouldn’t look forward to cocooning themselves in a delicious dark mulberry as we head into snuggle season?

Note – article by By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA. Prices correct at time of going to press but may have changed since.

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