LIFESTYLE
Originally published on Tuesday, 23 June 2009
Homes & Gardens
Where would a quintessential British Summer be without Glasto, Henley and Wimbledon, hmm? But before you hot-step it to Henman Hill or plant your pegs in the mud, we’ll let you in on this year’s secret. It’s all happening in other people’s backyards…
Since we can’t afford the Hilton’s Hamptons home ($325,000 to rifle through Paris’ walk-in?), we’re going rock’n’roll at Jo Woods’ country pile, where her pop-up venture ‘Mrs. Paisley’s Lashings ’ is serving organic menus in gothic grandeur.
If you prefer an overnighter, Sophie Conran’s latest project, a converted barn in the Cotswolds for bespoke house parties, is offering country pursuits from cheese-churning and cooking to honey-making and knitting.
Bohemians and bibliophiles should take advantage of the Earl and Countess of St Germans hospitality, as their stately home hosts the Port Eliot Festival for Hadley Freeman’s musings, fashion courtesy of Luella, music and midnight swimming.
And if you’re city-stuck, fear not, as the artificial grass gets rolled out for some Wimbledon-themed fun. Enjoy cocktails and live screenings at Bluebird’s outdoor courtyard, and sportily dressed staff and ‘Murray martinis’ on Gilgamesh’s ‘Players Lounge’ terrace.
Time to peek over the garden fence and see what the neighbours are up to.
Mrs. Paisley’s Lashings, 25th June – 8th July.
Sophie Conran for Temple Guiting
Port Eliot Festival, 24th – 26th July.
Players Lounge at Gilgamesh, 22nd June – 5th July.
Watch Wimbledon at Bluebird , 22nd June – 5th July
