Chiswick & Brook Green December 2014

2 [ChiswiCk and Brook Green]

Managing EditorFrancesca Lee

assistant EditorLauren Romano

Editorial assistantsJennifer Mason

Henry Hopwood-Phillips

Editorial intErnsTom HaguesTamir Davies

Editor-in-ChiEfLesley Ellwood

Managing dirECtorEren Ellwood

gEnEral ManagEr Fiona Fenwick

sEnior dEsignErLisa Wade

Publishing dirECtorGiles Ellwood

ExECutivE dirECtorSophie Roberts

CliEntrElationshiP dirECtor

Felicity Morgan-Harvey

businEssdEvEloPMEnt ManagEr

Nicola Bloomfield

ProduCtion Amy Roberts

Hugo WheatleyAlex PowellOscar Viney

One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AX

T: 020 7987 4320rwmg.co.uk

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R U N W I L D M E D I A G R O U P

An insight into this issue’s features

What’s inside

“…We Were overWhelmed by hoW supportive everyone Was When We first started the distillery in nasmyth street. ChisWiCk is a great neighbourhood With a fantastiC food and drink sCene…” distillery tour

“…new girl on the block foxes is hitting the

charts with adele-cum-paloma faith-sounding

tracks…” music

“…the dove has been in hammersmith sinCe the 17th Century, so it’s seen a lot of

Christmases…” food and drink“…she Was

studying medieval spanish poetry,

he Was studying Cosmology…” film

“…once i had regained my composure, i started to feel

like the exercise was actually doing me a whole lot of good…”

health and fitness

[ChiswiCk and Brook Green] 3

[editor’s letter and contents]

From theeditor CoNteNtS

REGULARS

4 TOP PICKS FOR DECEMBER The best events to attend this month19 HP SOURCE Hitting a nerve: identity crisis24 LETTERBOX The most pressing issues from Chiswick and Brook Green locals

FEATURES

16 REaD aLL aBOUT IT The best book releases just in time for Christmas21 THE HOUSE THaT gIn BUILT Sipsmith distillery arrives in the neighbourhood

nEwS, EvEnTS And REviEwS

7 HavE yOUR PURSE a MERRy LITTLE CHRISTMaS Local shops that are open later during the holiday season8 CHISwICK & BROOK gREEn’S gUIDE TO THE nEw yEaR Top picks for how to ring in 2015 with panache9 ... anD RELaX The best places to preen and pamper in the area10 FEEL THE BURn Your guide to local alternative exercise classes12 wEST LOnDOn’S SHOw REEL Keeping you up-to-date with the movie scene14 MUSIC MaTTERS All the local concerts this month to satisfy your musical needs15 FESTIvE On-STagE FUn Kick-start your Christmas with a seasonal show to remember18 On THE ROaD The latest from the area’s gastronomy scene20 BITE-SIzED FOOD anD DRInK nEwS The latest from the area’s gastronomy scene

On behalf of the Chiswick & Brook Green team, i would

like to wish all our readers a very merry Christmas.

For me, the festive period is a chance to unwind, spend

time with family and friends and enjoy all the seasonal activities on

offer in the local area.

To get you into the festive spirit, this issue we’ve compiled some of

the most seasonal events, from Christmas carols services (page six)

to new book releases to pop on your list just in time for Christmas

(page 16). with this in mind, if you still need to buy presents for

your nearest and dearest, we’ve also rounded up all the local late-

night shopping opening hours for your diary; turn to page seven to

find out more.

Elsewhere, those who are partial to the odd stiff drink or two

(i certainly am, especially at this time of year), should flick to page 21

where Lauren Romano drops by Sipsmith’s distillery on Cranbrook

Road to toast its arrival in the neighbourhood. Meanwhile, we shortlist

three local watering holes on our food and drink pages (p.20).

However you celebrate this year, be merry and enjoy every moment

– after all, Christmas comes but once a year.

Francesca Lee, Managing editor

ON THE COVER (left to right)The Great Gatsby ©Warner Brothers and other production studios; Passenger ©Tom Øverlie; The Theory of Everything ©Universal Pictures; Maddy’s Jiving School ©Richard Thomson; Westfield ice rink; Annie ©Columbia Pictures; masked ball in Phantom of the Opera ©Warner Brothers and other production studios; Edward Scissorhands ©Hugo Glendinning; Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas ©Simon Annand

the hobbit: the battle of the five armies, see page 12


Top picks forDECEMBERThe best events to attend this month

7 December A HIGHLAND FLING

The Chiswick Scottish Country Dance Club was established in 2002 and is now a roaring favourite with local Scots and Sassenachs alike. Its Kilts and Posh Frocks evening is a much-loved addition to the members’ Christmases and it’s also open to non-members who want to go along and have fun. The price of a ticket includes wine and soft drinks, and those who want to get into the community spirit of the season can take along a dish to add to the buffet.

£13 members, £15 non-members, 7pm-10pm, book tickets with Rosemary Kinghorn via the website, Chiswick Community School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN (chiswickscottish.org.uk)

12 DecemberBONJOUR CHISWICK

For all Chiswick-based Francophiles, help is at hand. Cercle Français de Chiswick (the French Circle of Chiswick) hosts regular talks, and this month it’s the turn of Cédric Cabanne who will give an address entitled: Mayotte, un département d’Outre Mer dans les Comores, which translates simply as: ‘Mayotte, a French overseas territory in the Comoros’. Hear all about the island’s brilliant white sands, turquoise water and diverse inhabitants while enjoying a glass of wine and the company of like-minded people.

Adults £7 on the door, students £3 on the door, 6.30pm, Raphael Room, St Michael & All Angels Church, Bath Road, W4 1TT, 07956 245 438

7 DecemberYOUNG AND TALENTED

At St Michael & All Angels Church this month, youngsters will be given the opportunity to become the new Beethoven or Tchaikovsky at an event organised by the West London Sinfonia to support the BBC’s initiative to introduce young children to classical music. The concert will offer something for everyone to enjoy, from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 to Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride. There will also be some interactive activities where keen kids can conduct, play along on sleigh bells or try out some of the instruments.

Adults £10, children £5, tickets available on the door and online, 3pm, St Michael & All Angels Church, Bath Road, W4 1TT, 020 8997 3540 (westlondonsinfonia.org)

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[eVents]

Until 10 JanuaryPaY tHe tHeatre a Visit

This month, the Bush Theatre is home to Visitors, performed by Up in Arms, a theatre company that ‘makes plays about people and the places they’re from’. Visitors is a touching story about an elderly mother who needs to be cared for. Her husband and son can’t look after her, so a blue-haired young woman is brought in to provide the help and attention she needs, prompting the family to face some difficult questions. This production will make for a great pantomime alternative or new Year’s outing.

From £15, Monday-Saturday 7.30pm, Saturday and Wednesday matinées 2.30pm, Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road, W12 8LJ, 020 8743 5050 (bushtheatre.co.uk)

17 decemberLaUgHter is tHe Best giFt

Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Charity Show returns to Hammersmith this year. with Sean Lock, Ross noble and Jason Manford on the bill, along with many others, it’s bound to be a laugh-a-minute evening. Mcintyre has presented this show for four years, and his running and bouncing around the stage is all in aid of Kids Company. Because of its varied acts and assorted styles of comedy, there will be a comedian for every member of the family, meaning there’s no excuse not to go. what’s better is that it’s for a good cause, making it entertaining and worthwhile.

£56.75, 7.30pm, Eventim Apollo, 45 Queen Caroline Street, W6 9QH, 0844 249 1000 (eventimapollo.com)

21 decemberBringing Fiction to LiFe

Ratty, Mr Toad, Badger and Mole will all make an appearance at Chiswick Pier this month as the wild ivy Theatre brings the colourful characters of The Wind in the Willows to life. Based on the original book by Kenneth Grahame, the production will be an interactive version of the story, packed with songs and high-energy dancing and will be a trip down memory lane for parents. wild ivy produces adaptations of classic literature to engage family members of all ages, and the end results are captivating to watch.

£5 members of Chiswick Pier Trust, £8, non-members, 3.30pm, Chiswick Pier House, Corney Reach Way, W4 2UG, 020 8742 2713 (chiswickpier.org.uk)

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[eVents]

chiswick chatter

what’s got Chiswick tongues wagging recently?

@CHISwICKHIgHRD Three new towers for Chiswick behind

Empire House. Happy about that? Take our survey, write to the council. Details here:

chiswickactiongroup.org.uk

@CHISwICKCHUMP #Apprentice tonight! ‘@ricky27704102: they filmed it earlier this year in front of the villa

at @Chiswick_House’

@CHRISRUDgE_ Thanks for a lovely day in leafy #Chiswick all

at @AlternergyPV. Will be back soon.

@wInKwORTH_w4 Turnham Green in #Chiswick looking

particularly lovely today

@CHISwICKISH Like the idea of a new huge 13-storey

block of flats with penthouses overlooking Turnham Green Church? Me neither

@wESTSIDEMagS Truly delicious dinner with the lovely

Hannah at @thebutchershook in Ravenscourt Park last night

@CHISTHEaTREaRTS We #dance because there’s no greater feeling in the world than moving to a

piece of #music and letting the rest of the world disappear

@URBanSCaPIngUK Good morning London #Chiswick! Ready to prepare your gardens for the winter

months? Have a super day!

@BROMPTOnHIREHave you seen the #facelift we’ve given

our dock at Turnham Green? Tell us what you think!

CHRISTMaS CaROLS

ST MICHaEL’S CHURCH7 December

the Christingle service takes place between 3.30pm and 4.30pm, and it’s bound to get everyone into the festive

spirit. go along as a family and try to resist eating the fruit sweets until the end.

14 Decemberst michael’s traditional carols

service begins at 6pm before the countdown to the big day begins.

st Michael’s Church, 60 Elmwood road, W4 3DY, 020 8994 3173

(stmichaels-elmwoodroad.org)

ST PaUL’S CHURCH14 December

those looking for a carols service with a twist can sign up to be part of the choir that leads the singing. No experience is

necessary, so whether you sound like an angel or completely the opposite, you’ll be able to have a go. those with instrumental

experience can also be part of the orchestra that will be performing alongside the singers

and providing a Christmassy atmosphere. services take place at 5pm and 7.30pm

followed by mulled wine and mince pies.

st Paul’s Church, Queen Caroline street, W6 9PJ, 020 8748 3855 (sph.org)

ST MICHaEL & aLL angELS CHURCH

14 Decemberhark! the herald family sing... Celebrate

the season with all the family at a traditional carols service at 6.30pm.

st Michael & All Angels Church, Bath road, W4 1tt, 020 8994 1380 (smaaa.org.uk)

ST PETER’S CHURCH14 December

sing your heart out at the carols service taking place at 6.30pm.

st Peter’s Church, Black Lion Lane, W6 9BE, 020 8741 4848 (stpetersw6.org)

gUnnERSBURy BaPTIST CHURCH14 December

stop the kids climbing the walls and calm them down with some carols. this singing

session for little ones starts at 4pm.21 December

the whole family can enjoy the morning carols service at 10.30am, and a candle-

lit service takes place at 6.30pm.

Gunnersbury Baptist Church, Wellesley road, W4 4BE, 020 8987 2965

(gunnersburybaptistchurch.org)

Look back to last monthsPeciaLitY saUsages Residents celebrated British Sausage week (3-9 november) at the Brook Green wild Food Market last month. visitors to the Addison Primary School site were shown how to produce bangers from scratch at a series of demonstrations, which also explained how to make strings of vegetable, offal or fruit versions. Everyone agreed that the results were delicious, and it’s nice to think that there is now a subset of the community in west London who are at home making personalised (if not wacky) sausages to go with their mash.

Saturdays 10am-3pm, Addison Primary School, Addison Gardens, W14 0DT (thewildfoodmarket.flavors.me)

for some families, attending a carols service is as integral to their festive celebrations as basting a turkey for six hours and setting a pudding on fire. here is a roundup of the most

popular sing-a-longs taking place in the area this month

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[shopping]

Have your purse a merry littleCHriStMaS Local shops that are open later during the holiday season

Switching on the Christmas lights ignites a sudden excitement within adults and children alike, so the need to buy the perfect present

for your family and friends is paramount. we understand, so we’ve selected some of the best late-night shopping events in the local area for those who need a few extra hours in the day to put a tick against their never-ending checklist. whether westfield caters for your every need, or you wish to buy something more boutique-chic, this list of late-night shops will prove very useful.

WestFieLd LondonPerfect for grabbing those last few presents you desperately need. The best place to go if you want a huge variety and a spot of skating.

15-20 December 10am-11pm, 21 December 10am-8pm 22-23 December 9am-midnight, 24 December 8am-6pm, Sundays 10am-8pm, Ariel Way, W12 7GF, 020 3371 2300 (uk.westfield.com)

Mint VeLVetParty season needs party clothes, and here you’ll find a smart clutch and sequinned jumpsuit for a razzle-dazzle Christmas.

Every Thursday open until 7pm until end of December, 244a Chiswick High Road, W4 1PD, 020 3441 6537 (mintvelvet.co.uk)

Kings MaLL sHoPPing centre with more than 30 retailers gathered in one space, it’s easy to find the best fashion, food and accessory purchases here, right on your front doorstep.

Monday-Friday 9am-9pm, Saturday 9am-8pm, Sunday 11am-6pm, Kings Mall Shopping Centre, King Street, Hammersmith, W6 9HW, 020 8741 2121 (kings-mall.co.uk)

adaM WaiteCalling all males! Get yourself suited and booted with a three-piece suit this season and be the talk of all Christmas dinners you attend, or buy a new one in a bigger size by way of preparing for the post-Christmas bloat.

Every Thursday 10am-8pm, Tuesday 23 December 10am-8pm, normal opening hours 10am-6pm Tuesday-Saturday, Sunday and Monday appointment only, 2 Bedford Corner, South Parade, W4 1LD, 020 7458 4478 (adamwaite.co.uk)

sWeatY BettYRegardless as to whether you plan to spend Christmas in the Alps or in your west London living room, get festive warmers here for a run, workout or ski trip this winter.

13 & 20 December 9am-6pm, 15 December

10am-7pm, 14 & 21 December 11am-5pm, normal opening hours Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 12noon-5pm, 62 Turnham Green Terrace, W4 1QN, 020 8747 6789 (sweatybetty.com)

Pie cLotHing Pie Clothing is well-stocked with designer apparel for men, and it’s open until seven.

15-25 December 10am-7pm,200 Chiswick High Road, W4 1PD, 020 8995 1942 (designer-fashions.co.uk)

coLLection women’s designer garb here. with plenty of brands in stock, you can put your designer knowledge to the test. Take advantage of the later opening hours and buy the perfect gift.

1-25 December, Monday-Friday 10am-7pm, 198 Chiswick High Road, W4 1PD, 020 8747 0474 (designer-fashions.co.uk)

noa noawith a range of popular styles and a late-night shopping day on 10 december, it’s likely that you’ll find something for yourself in noa noa when shopping for gifts. Treat yourself – ’tis the season to be jolly, after all.

Wednesday 10 December 10am-8pm, normal opening times Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm, 229a Chiswick High Road, W4 2DW, 020 8747 8949 (noanoa.com)

daMseL BoUtiQUeBoutique-chic is everywhere here, and it’s open until 7pm so you can visit after work.

Every Thursday until 18 December 10am-7pm, 11a Devonshire Road, W4 2EU, 020 8987 8571 (damselboutique.co.uk)

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[new year's eVents]

Chiswick & Brook Green's guide totHe New year top picks for how to ring in 2015 with panache

tricK and treatCelebrate the start of the new Year in a chandelier-lit, 1900s-era dance hall alongside cabaret and circus performers, aerial artists and dJs. There’s a midnight ceremony and even an optional dinner in the works too; no wonder the event always sells out.

£35-£95, 7pm, Bush Hall, 310 Uxbridge Road, W12 7LJ, 020 8222 6955 (bushhallmusic.co.uk)

dance tHe nigHt aWaYPut on your dancing shoes and prepare to greet the new Year with your finest moves. Ten of London’s best Latin dJs will take to the decks at Chiswick Town Hall for seven hours of salsa, kizomba, bachata and cha-cha. You can even take along a bottle of your own bubbly to get the evening going.

From £25, 7.30pm-3am, Chiswick Town Hall Ballroom, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN, 07831 715 368 (incognitodance.com)

LOCaL

ELSEwHERE In LOnDOn

tUrn BacK tiMeFlappers at the ready for this 20s-themed Great Gatsby-themed new Year’s Eve celebration at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, hosted by party-planning legends Propaganda. Last year, tickets sold out early, so make sure you get yours by booking now.

From £11.25, 10pm, O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, Shepherd’s Bush Green, W12 8TT, 0844 477 2000 (o2shepherdsbushempire.co.uk)

a nigHt to reMeMBerGet your gladrags on for an evening of dinner and dancing at Sam’s Brasserie. Enjoy a Champagne and canapé reception followed by a special three-course dinner before you dance the night away to a live dJ in the bar’s new Year’s disco.

£90 per person, to book call Fiona on 020 8987 0555 or email [email protected], Sam’s Brasserie and Bar, Barley Mow Centre, 11 Barley Mow Passage, W4 4PH (samsbrasserie.co.uk)

go incognito‘Masquerade! Paper faces on parade…’ Time to unleash your inner Phantom for the ever-popular annual Paradise new Year’s Eve party and see in 2015 through sequin-rimmed eyes.

£25, 8.30pm-3am. Paradise by Way of Kensal Green, 19 Kilburn Lane, Kensal Green, W10 4AE, 020 8969 0098 (theparadise.co.uk)

LiVin’ La Vida LocaThe theme for this year’s nYE party at Embargo is Tropicana Cabaret with live shows, great music and fireworks to celebrate the dawn of a new year.

From £40, for more information email [email protected] or call Jess on 07793 778 164, Embargo Republica, 533 King’s Road, SW10 0TZ (embargorepublica.com)

tHe Big Bang tHeorYwatch hundreds of rockets light up the London skyline as Big Ben chimes for the last time in 2014. This year, to prevent the overcrowding that has proved problematic in the past, there are only 100,000 tickets on sale, so you’d better snap yours up quickly if you want a great view.

£10, until 12.45pm, London’s Southbank (london.gov.uk/nye)

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[beauty]

… andreLaxThe best places to preen and pamper in the area

tHe YoU cLinic6 Chiswick Terrace, Acton Lane, W4 5LY, 020 8742 2266 (theyouclinic.co.uk)tHe retreat HeaLtH & BeaUtY1 Fromows Corner, Sutton Lane North, W4 4HA, 020 8994 5116 (theretreats.com)Menana sPa279 Chiswick High Road, W4 4PU, 020 8994 5754 (menana.co.uk)tHe cHisWicK BeaUtY LoUnge21 Turnham Green Terrace, W4 1RG, 020 8995 5186 (thechiswickbeautylounge.com)siMPLY BeaUtY oF cHisWicK1 Acton Lane, W4 5NE, 0785 4939 892 (simplybeautyofchiswick.co.uk)in-derM sKin cLinic2A Acton Lane, W4 5NE, 07443 548 025 (in-dermskinclinic.com)soUtH BeacH121-123 Chiswick High Road, W4 2ED, 020 8994 4127 (southbeachw4.co.uk)

nEw On THE MaRKET THE REvIEw

LOCaL HaIR anD BEaUTy SaLOnS

sMootHsKin goLd iPL Hair reMoVaLFinding the time to shave regularly or enduring weeks of fuzz while waiting for a wax are trials that most of us are familiar with. However, with the launch of a new iPL Laser hair-removal product, the Smoothskin Gold, those experiences could soon be things of the past. This futuristic gadget brings the world of expensive salon laser hair removal to you with easy-to-use settings, including a ‘detect and set’ feature that automatically adjusts the laser level to match the skin tone of the area you’re treating. Users claim to have noticed a significant difference after just a few uses, so imagine their delight of the results at the end of the 12-week long programme.

£299, available at Boots stores across London, including 332 Chiswick High Road, W4 5TA, 020 8994 1431 or online (smoothskin.co.uk)

sisLeY BLacK rose PrecioUs oiLComposed of five plant-based active ingredients including avocado, camelina oil and plum oil (rich in Omegas three and six, with restorative and hydrating properties) this silky-smooth dry oil prepares and nourishes to help restore comfort, suppleness, vitality and renewed vibrancy to dry or dehydrated skin. it has a rich, luxurious feel on the skin without falling into the trap of being oily.

£136 for 25ml, available from SpaceNK, 172 Chiswick High Road, W4 1PR, 020 8994 3184 or online at sisley-paris.com

a royal visitBelinda donovan takes a trip to local salon Beauty royal

Beauty Royal is an oasis of calm in a bustling city, and its owner Hannah, who trained at west London College, specialises in

the quickest-drying manicure ever – the Brazilian. Just two minutes after the last brushstroke of nail varnish, you can be scrabbling for keys in your bag with no smudges whatsoever and your nails will look glamorous for weeks.

Another treatment i recommend at the salon is the CACi non-surgical facelift, which wipes years off you. i was fortunate enough to have a tester of this treatment and i can recommend it ahead of a special evening out. Even my 15-year-old noticed the difference.

70 Blythe Road, W14 0HB, 020 7602 3423 (beautyroyallondon.co.uk)

LUMinis cHisWicK59-61 Turnham Green Terrace, W4 1RP, 0844 800 2152 (luminisbeauty.co.uk) tHe WeLLness LoUnge3 Acton Lane, W4 5NE, 07403 000 909 (wellnessloungechiswick.co.uk)teaW & Hair91 Chiswick High Road, W4 2EF, 020 8742 1826 (teawandhair.co.uk)Jo BLU saLon11 Grove Park Road, W4 3RS, 020 8996 0616 ( joblusalon.co.uk)aKso1A Stile Hall Parade, W4 3AG, 020 8994 7270 (akso.co.uk)BLo BLoW drY & BeaUtY Bar81 Chiswick High Road, W4 2EF, 020 8995 3455 (b1obar.com)tHe cHisWicK saLon14 Fauconberg Road, W4 3JY, 020 8742 0202 (thechiswicksalon.co.uk)

beautY roYal saloN


FeeltHe BurNYour guide to local alternative exercise classes

The dimmed lights of the studio, the pumped-up music and the enthusiastic trainer could mean only one thing: Barrecore is how

cool kids exercise. it employs a combination of Pilates and extreme yoga to stretch and strengthen the body’s muscles through various poses, small movements and dance-like positions. i carefully chose a mat to work on – far enough at the back that no one else could see me, but just close enough to still look enthusiastic – and prepared to give every muscle in my body a sound thrashing.

The session was just me and four ladies and before we began we had to undertake some admin. ‘does anyone have any pre-existing injuries?’ we all shook our heads. ‘is anyone here pre or post-natal?’ The ladies shook their heads and i shrugged in confusion before fervently shaking my head when i realised what i was being asked. The admin over with, the music was turned up and a series of (admittedly terrific) songs came on that had been adapted to suit an exercise room or, alternatively, a rave.

we were instructed to stand with our legs spread over our Shrek-green mats with our hands in a praying position. Then, we had to exhale and move downwards slowly, immediately putting strain on the muscles in our thighs. My eyes widened under the pressure and i gritted my teeth against the pain. ‘Hold it! Hold it!’ the instructor encouraged. it was at this point that the uncontrollable wobbling began and thoughts of ‘why have i volunteered to do this?’ crept into my mind.

Once i had regained my composure and grown used to the searing pain, i started to feel like the exercise was actually doing me a whole lot of good. The high intensity of the muscle-strengthening was counteracted by brief moments of stretching (i’m not ashamed to admit that i longed for these pauses for most of the workout) and with each set it became easier to concentrate on getting the most out of it. we were all assured that, because this was our first time, it would be tough. The workout was a full hour of non-stop training and the thorough regime left no limb un-limbered.

Barrecore is now a Chiswick institution;

its recently-opened Turnham Green studio offers a range of classes throughout the day, as well as a personal training room with reformer Pilates classes that will complement barre sessions nicely. The aim of Barrecore is to create a lean, toned body. The exercise focuses on the body’s core, which is painful, but really does get results. For anyone looking to trim down after the traditional Christmas gluttony, i recommend giving it a go – but be warned, it’s hard work.

From £18 for a 30-minute class, membership from £250, 12a Turnham Green, W4 1QP, 020 8996 0401 (barrecore.co.uk)

REvIEw

StretCH to tHe LiMitBarrecore, the muscle-strengthening, core-enhancing craze comes to chiswick, and tom Hagues bravely attempts it

the barreCore set up


[HEALTH AND FITNESS]

SOME LIKE IT HOTBikram Yoga is not for the faint-hearted. Designed to maximise the amount of oxygenated blood circulating around the body, an average class reinvigorates all the body. This discipline involves holding 26 different postures in a room with the heating cranked up to 40°C. Take a towel and plenty of water – you’ll definitely need both.

Drop-in price £15, membership packages from £40, Bikram Yoga Chiswick, First Floor,The Studio, Essex Place, W4 5UT, 020 8995 9955 (bikramyogachiswick.co.uk)

JIVING ROUND TOWN Maddy’s Jiving School offers five-week jive courses that will equip people with a trimmer figure and an impressive repertoire of moves. If you get the jitterbugs about going it alone, persuade a partner to join with you – not only will you both have fun, you’ll always be the best dancers at any parties you attend together.

£80 per person, 8pm-9.30pm Wednesday evenings, the next beginners’ course runs from 4 February-11 March 2015, advanced course 20 May-17 June 2015, The Upper Hall, Holy Innocents Church, Paddenswick Road, W6 0UB, 020 8566 5226 (learntojive.com)

PUTTING YOU THROUGH YOUR PACESDesigned for men and women of all ages and abilities, the Trilogy Bootcamp in Ravenscourt Park takes place three times per week for four weeks. Not only does it offer a great chance to exercise regularly and get your body into the shape you really want, it also advises on nutritional and dietary changes that you can make in order to boost your new healthy lifestyle. The bootcamp shuns fad diets, so there won’t be any grass-and-water-only meals involved.

From £89, see website for timetables, Ravenscourt Park, W6 0TJ, 07799 268 464 (trilogybootcamp.com)

alternative fitness

maddy’s jiving school teachers robin and colette

bikram yoga trilogy bootcamp

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West London’sshoW reeLKeeping you up-to-date with the movie scene

9 DecemberTHE WALK IIIDirected by Timothy FieldingStarring Kelly Downes, James Robinson and Timothy FieldingWith the grisly murders of five women over five years, support officer Elizabeth (Kelly Downes) becomes responsible for discovering the bodies. Her past comes back to bite her, with disastrous results.

10 DecemberTHE SINGING BIRD WILL COMEDirected by Iain Ross-McNameeStarring Gillian Harker, Charles O’Neill and Lolliella WilsonReturning home after the break-up of her relationship and the death of her mother, Lauren (Gillian Harker) works nights as a cleaner. During her shifts, she’s haunted by the ghost of a girl who disappeared years ago, and comes dangerously close to meeting the same fate. It’s a thriller which is sure to keep you on your toes.

‘However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. While there’s life, there is hope.’ This

is just one of the many pearls of wisdom that Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne) gives the audience in the latest biopic: illustrating an often-forgotten element of his turbulent life; love.

The chronological retelling of his past starts with the innocent courting of Jane Wilde (Felicity Jones) after meeting at a soirée in Cambridge, where they both attended university. She was studying medieval Spanish poetry, he was studying cosmology; their charming, twee relationship begins to blossom but is met with the earth-shattering diagnosis of Hawking’s motor neurone disease. Aged

just 21, he is given two years to live. Wilde, who later becomes Mrs Hawking,

gives up her life to care for him and, witnessing her silent struggle, makes for heart-breaking watching, exposing the honest tensions of their relationship as he beats the odds of his diagnosis and exceeds his life expectancy considerably, although his condition worsens. His triumphs in the field of physics act only as the spine of the film, so if you’re looking for a true portrait of his career, look elsewhere. The real story here is the incredibly moving and bittersweet romance.

The Theory of Everything is released on 1 January

review what’s new this month

The Theory of everythingBethan Rees is moved by this touching true story

rating

EddiE REdmaynE and FElicity JonEs as stEphEn hawking and JanE wildE

thE hobbit: thE battlE oF thE FivE aRmiEs

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[FilM]

12 decembertHe Face oF LoVeDirected by Arie PosinStarring Robin Williams, Ed Harris and Annette BeningA widowed woman falls in love with a man who happens to be the spitting image of her late husband.

12 decemberat anY PriceDirected by Ramin BahraniStarring Dennis Quaid, Zac Efron and Kim DickensA crisis causes a farming family’s relationship to be put to the test. And yes, that’s dennis Quaid, not Harrison Ford. And yes we know, they do look alike.

12 decembereLectricitY Directed by Bryn HigginsStarring Agyness Deyn, Lenora Crichlow and Christian CookeA young woman suffering from epilepsy that causes hallucinations embarks on a journey to find her long-lost brother.

12 decembertHe HoBBit: tHe BattLe oF tHe FiVe arMiesDirected by Peter JacksonStarring Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Benedict Cumberbatchand Cate BlanchettThe seemingly never-ending saga continues, as Bilbo and his pals embark on a war against Smaug to stop him from destroying Middle Earth. it’s 150-minute in length so make sure you set aside plenty of time.

15 decemberMontanaDirected by Mo AliStarring Michelle Fairley, Lars Mikkelsen and Adam DeaconA former Serbian commando and a 14-year-old boy take revenge against a ruthless crime lord. Throughout the ordeal, the young teenager is taught the delicate and dark art of assassination. Guess where it all takes place? London’s East End.

19 decemberdUMB and dUMBer toDirected by Bobby Farrelly and Peter FarrellyStarring Jim Carrey and Jeff Danielsidiots Lloyd and Harry try to find Harry’s adopted daughter 20 years after their last adventure. This picture is the embodiment of the phrase flogging a dead horse.

19 decembernigHt at tHe MUseUM: secret oF tHe toMBDirected by Shawn LevyStarring Ben Stiller, Robin Williams and Dan StevensLarry rushes around to keep the magic of the museum at night-time alive, for an oddly impressive third time.

20 decemberannieDirected by Will GluckStarring Jamie Foxx, Quvenzhané Wallis and Cameron DiazA remake of the original, only this time Annie is a tough foster child from new York. will Stacks, the city’s mayoral candidate, takes her in as an attempt to strengthen his election campaign and it soon becomes clear that Stacks needs little Annie more than she needs him.

26 decembereXodUs: gods and KingsDirected by Ridley ScottStarring Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton and Ben KingsleyMoses, played by Bale, rises up against Pharaoh Ramses and releases 600,000 slaves from Egypt’s harsh regime and its assorted plagues.

26 decemberBig eYesDirected by Tim BurtonStarring Amy Adams, Christoph Waltz and Krysten RitterA biographical drama focusing on artist Margaret Keane’s success in the 1950s and her legal battle with her husband in the 1960s when he claimed her work was his own.

31 decembertHe HUMBLingDirected by Barry LevinsonStarring Al Pacino, Dan Hedaya and Greta GerwigA fast-ageing actor (portrayed by Pacino, fittingly) turns his own life upside down by getting himself into a committed relationship with a lesbian.

Night at the museum: seCret of the tomb

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[Music]

Music MatterSall the local concerts this month to satisfy your musical needs

roYaL aLBert HaLL’s aUditoriUM Put your vocal chords to the test this month as part of the Royal Albert Hall’s Christmas Festival 2014. Join in with much-loved songs and carols such as Let it Snow and Jingle Bells. The instrumentals will be provided by the London Concert Orchestra and the vocals will be supported by the London Concert Chorus.

13-23 December, see website for dates and times, from £35, Royal Albert Hall,Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP, 0845 401 5045 (royalalberthall.com)

angUs + JULia stone16 December, 7pm, £28.50cHris rea 20 December, 6.30pm, £43.25

Passenger This folk and indie rock heartthrob can work a guitar as well as a beard. He describes his newest tunes as being cinematic stories that feature a positive attitude. There are a few sombre moments here, however, so it’s not all rose petals.

7 and 8 December, 7pm, from £27.25, Hammersmith Apollo, Eventim Apollo, 45 Queen Caroline Street, W6 9QH, 0844 249 1000 (eventimapollo.com)

HaMMERSMITH aPOLLO

FURTHER aFIELD

O2 SHEPHERD’S BUSH EMPIRE

ane BrUn10 December, 7pm, £17.50saXon13 December, 7pm, £27.50insPiraL carPets18 December, 7pm, £20MicHaeL scHenKer20 December, 7pm, £25

FoXesnew girl on the block Foxes is hitting the charts with Adele-cum-Paloma Faith-sounding tracks. She first came to the public’s attention when she featured on dJ Zedd’s 2013 single Clarity, and this show is a great opportunity for you to hear her perform tracks from her well-received debut album Glorious.

9 December, 7pm, from £14, O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire

tHe eneMYdespite its name, The Enemy’s music isn’t at all hostile. influenced by music from The Clash and Oasis, this lot are a medley of rock music’s finest.

19 December, 7pm, from £20, O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, Shepherd’s Bush Green, W12 8TT 0844 477 2000 (o2shepherdsbushempire.co.uk)

COMIng OUTTHIS MOnTH

III By TakE THaT1 December

McBusted By mCBusTED1 December

crIMe of the century By suPERTRamP8 December

MonuMents to an elegy By THE smasHiNg PumPkiNs

9 December

the PInk PrInt By NiCki miNaj15 December

swing into christmas

a roundup of the best albums and songs to get you in a festive mood

christmas by Michael Bublé

the christmas collectionby Frank Sinatra

White christmasby Bing Crosby

the andy Williams christmas albumby Andy Williams

WilD CaRD: you might not have heard Christmas Isn’t Christmas by The Boy Least

Likely To, but it’s got all the festive bells and jingles that everyone recognises. Why not

try something a bit different this year?

passeNger

roYal albert hall’s auDitorium

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[theatre]

Until 31 december raYMond Briggs’ FatHer cHristMasA must-see for little ones, this staged production of the classic illustrated children’s book returns to the Lyric for a third year. The story follows Father Christmas on his journey to deliver presents to boys and girls around the world.

Tickets £10, children £8; for full performance schedule see the Lyric website, details below.

Until 3 January dicK WHittington and His cat For your fill of pantomime fun this year, watch the trials and tribulations of dick and his feline sidekick as they encounter the evil Queen Rat and have lots of laughs along the way. This is a production for the whole family, and the performance marks the Lyric’s sixth year of bringing panto-land to the stage.

Tickets from £15; for full performance schedule see the website. Lyric Hammersmith, Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL, 020 8741 6850 (lyric.co.uk)

FestiveoN-StaGe FuNKick-start your christmas with a seasonal show to remember

LOCaL FURTHER aFIELD

Until 3 January WHite cHristMasLighting up the stage at the dominion Theatre this winter is irving Berlin’s classic Christmas tale. Two ex-army pals team up with a pair of sisters to save a remote vermont ski lodge that has fallen on hard times, by putting on a festive show. Sing along with your favourite tunes including Sisters, Blue Skies and, of course, the legendary White Christmas.

Tickets from £39.50, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday matinées at 2.30pm (Christmas schedule varies, see website). Dominion Theatre, 268-269 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7AQ, 0845 2007 982 (dominiontheatre.com)

2 december to 11 January edWard scissorHandsMatthew Bourne’s mesmerising and popular dance production of Tim Burton’s classic film Edward Scissorhands returns to the Sadler’s wells stage this winter. A touching and witty modern fairytale featuring music by danny Elfman and

Terry davies, it tells the tale of a misfit abandoned in a strange new world.

Tickets from £12, Tuesday to Saturday 7.30pm, Sundays 7pm, for details of occasional matinée shows see the website. Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 4TN, 0844 412 4300 (sadlerswells.com)

Until 4 January THE SnOwMAnThe Snowman has been a Christmas family favourite for generations. it’s the story of a unique friendship between a young boy and his snowman as the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the north Pole, where they meet Father Christmas and narrowly escape the clutches of Jack Frost. This winter, take the kids to see their favourite characters brought to life on-stage with a live band performing the classic score, including the spine-tingling Walking in the Air.

Tickets from £15, performances at 11am, 2.30pm and 7pm, for full schedule see the website. Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, Holborn, WC2A 2HT, 0844 412 4322 (sadlerswells.com)

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Readall about itThe best books to keep an eye out for this month

LOVE AND FREINDSHIP: AND OTHER YOUTHFUL WRITINGSJane Austen, £14.99 by Published by Penguin Classics No, that’s not a spelling error, that’s the actual title. Collected from Austen’s early stories from her teenage years, this book contains sketches, tales and general nonsense, and (hopefully) no other olde-timey misspellings.

BEST FOR THEOLOGIANS

BEST FOR THINkERS

BEST FOR mOGGy LOvERS

BEST FOR cLASSIcS FANS

BEST FOR THE cuRIOuS

BEST FOR cOOkS

BEST FOR STIGmATOPHILES

BEST FOR HISTORy FANS

BEST FOR POLITIcOS

IN GOD’S HANDSby Desmond Tutu, £9.99Published by BloomsburyTutu’s book reflects on the human condition and the infinite love of God. He says that ‘not only are we in God’s hands, but our names are engraved in his palms.’ Think of that what you will, but it’s an enthralling read about a man’s relationship with God throughout his very turbulent life.

PEN & INK by Wendy MacNaughton and Isaac Fitzgerald, £16.99Published by BloomsburyNope, not Cockney rhyming slang, but rather a literal title. This book is about tattoos and the many stories behind them, whether they were influenced by one drink too many or carefully planned memorials to someone or something. Featuring inks from rock stars to librarians, each story is as interesting as the next.

VERA BRITTAIN AND THE FIRST WORLD WAR by Mark Bostridge, £14.99Published by Bloomsbury, ContinuumBrittain wrote Testament of Youth in 1933 and Bostridge’s book tells the story of her life. It’s being published at a good time – a film about Brittain (also entitled Testament of Youth) is due to hit screens in January, and the two works about this famous author will complement each other nicely.

SOME HERE AMONG USby Peter Walker, £16.99Published by Bloomsbury CircusA story that covers the Vietnam and Iraq

wars focused on a group of friends from New Zealand. Tackling themes like youth, promise and loss, this novel is a good old look at today’s society, meaning it’s all relevant to the here and now.

PLAYING TO THE GALLERY: HELPING CONTEMPORARY ART IN ITS STRUGGLE TO BE UNDERSTOODby Grayson Perry, £16.99Published by Particular BooksWhat is art? A large, open question that, of course, has no real answer. Aficionados battle it out for hours trying to come to a conclusion, and Perry’s book will only add to the furore. Taken from his Reith Lectures, the words in Perry’s pages will turn what you already think about art on its head.

CAT SENSE: THE FELINE ENIGMA REVEALEDby John Bradshaw, £8.99Published by Penguin BooksCats are incredibly popular among many internet communities, as well as real-life ones too. But what is it that makes them the way they are? Bradshaw’s the man to tell us, since he’s an expert on animal behaviour and this book is a scientific look at the nature of cats. Give it a miss if you’re more of a dog person.

TALES OF THE MARVELLOUS AND NEWS OF THE STRANGEIntroduction by Robert Irwin, translation by Malcolm C. Lyons, £25Published by Penguin Classics This one’s perfect for intrepid readers. It’s a collection of 18 Arab stories that are 1,000 years old, and 12 of them are new discoveries that have never before been read in English. If pushing boundaries is what you’re good at, this is an ideal read. It’s a brand-new ancient piece of work. Intriguing, isn’t it?

HOME COMFORTSby James Martin, £20Published by Quadrille PublishingHis wholesome and hearty British food is a favourite among many, and there are mums and nans across the country who think he’s a bit dishy too. Martin’s latest book has a collection of recipes, from impressive dinner-party feasts to grab-as-you-run-out-the-door lunches.


[books]

STOCKIng FILLER

EaSyREaDIng

I’LL TaKE nEw yORKby miranda Dickinson

published by avon, £7.99brooklyn bookshop owner bea decides

that she doesn’t need or want any more boyfriends, and psychiatrist jake steinmann decides he’s better off with

New York being his only beloved. the two of them meet at a party and make a pact

to never have a relationship again. No prizes for guessing what happens next.

a cHristMas Feastby Katie Fforde, £6.99Published by ArrowPerfect for a quick spot of reading when there’s a lull in the festivities, this collection of festive short stories cries out to be stuffed into a stocking. it’s a collection of Fforde’s existing tales and includes a never-before-read short story.

for the coffee table: local reads

wILD aBOUT HaMMERSMITH & BROOK gREEn anD wILD aBOUT CHISwICK

by Andrew Wilson, £21.99Unity Print and Publishing

If you’re wild about Hammersmith, Brook Green and Chiswick, your luck’s in. Compiled by local

photographer Andrew Wilson, these titles are the latest addition to his portfolio. Having documented almost the whole of west and south-west London,

you can’t help but admire the man’s stamina. Photos from the deep, dark depths of winter

feature alongside spring snaps and summertime shots, with a lot of focus on the Thames as it snakes

its way west. Wild About Hammersmith & Brook Green has street scenes, river views and pictures of parks. It’s a remarkable documentation of the many

faces of Hammersmith and Brook Green, since it shows the tranquil countryside and the bustling

town centres and high streets of the areas. Some of its scenic snow pictures make you realise that,

despite the fact it stops you getting out and about, snow can be quite pretty.

Wild About Chiswick is very much in the same vein. It’s got lovely shots of the red brick of

Bedford Park, Chiswick House and Turnham Green. The area’s industrial history is

acknowledged with snaps of The Mall and Chiswick’s famous brewery, and it makes for a

handy reminder of why the area is so desirable. You might wish to read this book when it’s pouring

with rain and you want to remind yourself of sunnier, lazy-afternoons-on-Turnham-Green

weather. There’s picture evidence in this book that that kind of weather really does exist.

Coffee tables across Chiswick are, at this moment, scattered with remote controls, magazines, coasters and perhaps a Christmas decoration or two. Here are a couple of

suggestions for locally themed coffee-table reads that will inform, entertain and do everything else a coffee-table book should do.

MaRy FEDDEnby Christopher Andreae, £19.99Published by Lund Humphries

Mary Fedden, throughout her long career, painted colourful pictures that were always full of life and energy. Without delving into too much art-speak, Fedden was a modernist artist who painted in an expressive style and, as a Chiswick resident, she

was a notable member of the community.

Mary Fedden: Enigmas and Variations intends to educate, as well as allow readers to appreciate

Fedden’s vibrant work. Its words have been praised for being easy-to-read (which is always a

bonus) and each image reproduced in the book is written about in a refreshingly non-exclusive way

– essentially anyone can read this and understand the thinking behind Fedden’s work. The author,

Christopher Andreae, has been an art writer since the 1960s and is renowned in his field. Andreae

knew Fedden very well and recently visited Chiswick Pier House to give a talk about her, which was filled

with amusing anecdotes and stories.

Having documented almost the whole of west and south-west London,

you can’t help but admire the man’s stamina


[transport news]

on theroadKeeping things moving on the highways

roadworks in the local area

w4Chiswick High Road Traffic signals modernisation Until 5 december

Gunnersbury Avenue Advance works including stats diversions, construction of new utility bridge Until 30 november 2015

Acton Lane Traffic signals modernisation Until 5 december

Great Chertsey Road Upgrading the parapets of Chiswick Bridge and carrying out concrete repairs Until 6 February 2015

Great west Road Lane closure switches between Ealing Road and Chiswick Roundabout in both directions

Until 6 March 2015

Gunnersbury Avenue Build manhole chamber in carriageway, demolish two existing manholes Until 16 december

w6Batoum Gardens Connections projects Until 5 december

w12vespan Road Construct a new manhole in the carriageway to install an anti-flooding device Until 5 december

THE RESULTSaRE In

RESULTS FROM THE ORIgInaL PHaSE OF THE wHEELIE BIn TRIaL:Ninety-four per cent of residents in the

last trial area were in favour of the use of wheeled bins for household

rubbish collections.

eighty-two per cent of residents thought that the amount of spillage and littering in their area had been reduced following the

introduction of the bins.

recycling increased across the trial areas by four per cent.

rubbish decreased in trial areas by 32 per cent compared with the rest of

the borough.

the number of residents using the green box and plastics recycling increased significantly by 10 per cent for the

recycling box and eight per cent for the plastics sack.(hounslow.gov.uk)

road cLean-UPRoad users should find kerbs and pavements clear of rubbish in the near future after Hounslow Council pledged to deliver wheelie bins to up to 22,000 extra homes across the borough last month in a bid to clean up our roads.

Leader of Hounslow Council, Cllr Steve Curran, said: ‘The extension of the trial follows on from the success of last year which helped save £67,000 of taxpayers’ money from not paying extra landfill tax. wheelie bins not only help us save money but they also help keep our streets clean.’

(hounslow.gov.uk)

oUr saY on sPeed LiMitsHammersmith & Fulham Council is launching a public consultation next year to gauge support for a new borough-wide 20mph speed limit on all residential roads as part of a £1.81million programme of street improvements that will be funded by Transport for London.

if residents back the proposal, the new speed restriction will come into place between 2016 and 2018. A detailed plan to consult local residents and businesses throughout 2015-16 will be developed following discussions with other councils where borough-wide 20mph limits have been introduced successfully, such as Camden, islington and the City of London.

welcoming the proposal, John Griffiths, chair of H&F Cyclists, said: ‘This will make a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians and will go a long way towards encouraging more to take up cycling. we would like to see the limit extended in the future to Hammersmith Bridge and high streets where many cyclists and pedestrians go to shop and where there are most accidents.’

(lbhf.gov.uk)

PHone ParKingHammersmith and Fulham Council is trialling a new system for paying for street parking in Olympia zone E following requests from local residents. Mobile payments can be made either by phone, text or by downloading the RingGo app, which allows drivers to enter their vehicle registration and the location code of the bay they want to park in and confirm payment. The mobile system will not replace existing pay and display machines, so residents and visitors will still be able to buy tickets using cash at machines on the street. if the trial is a success, the scheme could be extended across the borough.

(lbhf.gov.uk)

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HP SOURCE: HEnRy HOPwOOD-PHILLIPS REPORTS On LOCaL ISSUES

HittiNG a NerVeHenry Hopwood-Phillips touches on one of the most sensitive issues that liberal societies confront today, the topic of identity...

The reason identity sticks in the throat of many a contemporary liberal is that it bucks the trend that Karl Marx noted within

capitalism: a system that ensures ‘all that is solid melts into thin air [and] all that is holy is profaned.’ Liberalism prides itself on its fluid, free and flexible aspects, yet identity is usually rooted in ethnicities and histories which cannot be moved in or out of at will; simply put, one cannot merely ‘participate’ in them, at least not in the short term.

Often, arguments are tabled that try to imply identity can be rendered null by the fact that hybridity is possible. A good example would be the author who in a recent book remarked that ‘to which civilisation does a Muslim soldier in a US army belong?’ But hybridity does not destroy an identity’s components; this would be akin to arguing that neither the labrador nor poodle are valid categories because the labradoodle is possible.

People forwarding these types of argument often adopt an ecumenical tone, emphasising their pious regard for the fact that we are all humans. Little or no stress is ever positioned on or around the fact that although we all defecate, consume, reproduce and commit violence, almost every aspect of higher culture demands that we take decisions as a group and the reason each culture is distinctive is that each takes different decisions and therefore routes. it could be argued that ‘humanity’ is elevated

to such a height merely to destroy the validity of the next largest unit: that of the culture or civilisation, arguably Man’s most noble (and delicate) achievement.

Other buzzwords employed include ‘pluralism’. This is used in the same way a candidate in Dragon’s Den television programme uses ‘net profit,’ which is not because he/she is certain what it means but because they know it sounds good. The truth (that pluralism means the heterodox elements of a society are exaggerated to the detriment of the homogenous ingredients; it is a polite way of requiring that almost every unit of belonging be disbanded) escapes

most and it is hard to tell whether through design or ignorance in most circumstances.

Just as talk of humanity is used to reduce the validity of culture to rubble, the insistence that pluralism trumps all veils a wish to reduce genuine diversity (of different modes of living and thinking) into the sham variety of the United Colors of Benetton [sic] advert where all look superficially different whilst singing from the same hymn sheet culturally.

A solution to the intractable identity problem is rarely given that is not, in the final analysis, full of platitudes or tenuous notions of ‘inventing new ways of being’. Suggestions like this are a sure demonstration of the psychological distance travelled between current political commentators and the entire canon of western thought. As C. S. Lewis warned, these ‘dreams of the far future destiny of Man are dragging up from its shallow and unquiet grave, the old dream of Man as God.’

Almost every aspect of higher culture demands that we take decisions

as a group

[politics]

ChisWiCk house


[food and drink]

Bite-sized food and drinknewsThe latest from the area’s gastronomy scene

sweet treats

a sPOONFUL OF sUGar HeLPs… eVerYtHING

Château Dessert has just the ticket for any sweet tooth looking to be satisfied. From

special editions of spiced macarons to praline and chocolate tarts, there’s bound

to be something that tickles people’s fancies in the run-up to Christmas. The kids can be entertained with cupcakes and the newly-introduced ‘Honey I’m

home for Christmas’ is a pleasing take on honeycomb cheesecake.

Château Dessert, 213 Chiswick High Road, W4 2DW, 020 8607 4488 (chateaudessert.com)

eVerY mOrseL mattersAvoid the inevitable squabble over who wants what this season with a mix and

match box of miniature cakes from Drink Me Eat Me in Hammersmith. Get creative (and generous) and treat someone special

to a personalised fruit and spiced rum cake that will both deliver a festive kick

and get the gluttony off to a start.Order by 15 December for collection after 19 December, Drink Me Eat Me,

250-252 King Street, W6 0SP, 020 7998 0073 (drinkmeeatme.com)

OUt aNd abOUt

CHRISTMAS MADE EASYA three-course party menu is the talk of Annie’s in Chiswick this month and, with the likes of beef bourguignon and turkey escalope on offer, culinary satisfaction is but a stone’s throw away. Happy hour is made even happier, too, by the inspired selection of easy-drinking cocktails, so get ready to eat, drink and be very merry.

Annie’s Chiswick, 162 Thames Road, W4 3QS, 020 8994 6848 (anniesrestaurant.co.uk)

TAKE A BREAK FROM TURKEYFor those who are sick to the back teeth of turkey, The Cabin offers an escape with its laid-back style of food, whatever the weather. It has a barbecue-themed menu that conjures up sweetcorn fritters and pulled-pork brisket, and for dessert there’s bread-and-butter bourbon pudding. However, for those who can’t get enough of traditional yuletide feasts, there are also two festive menus running until 23 December, so take your pick.

The Cabin Steak & Seafood Grill, 148 Chiswick High Road, W4 1PR, 020 8994 8594 (cabinrestaurants.co.uk)

CRÈME DE LA CRÊPEIf your calendar is too jam-packed to squeeze in a visit to the French Alps this year, La Petite Bretagne in Hammersmith has a good substitute. French tartiflette (potatoes, reblochon cheese and bacon), as well as Savoyarde crêpes with raclette cheese might convince your tongue that you’re in France.

La Petite Bretagne, 5-7 Beadon Road, W6 0EA, 020 8127 5530 (lapetitebretagne.co.uk)

FESTIVE HERITAGE The Dove has been in Hammersmith since the 17th century, so it’s seen a lot of Christmases. A particular highlight of this year’s menu is the Black Cab Christmas Pudding which contains Fuller’s Black Cab Stout to give it a boozy, intense bite.

The Dove, 19 Upper Mall, W6 9TA, 020 8748 9474 (dovehammersmith.co.uk)

TOP THREE FOR A TIPPLE

Get INtO tHe swING OF tHINGsThe City Barge is great for mulled wine and a festive atmosphere. A big open fire will make you feel like you’re in a Christmas film, and you can even pick

up tips from staff on 14 December on how to make the perfect mulled wine. However, the best thing is the discounted drinks you can buy when wearing

a festive jumper on 23 December. (Brownie points for light-up sweaters.)

The City Barge, 27 Strand-on-the-Green, W4 3PH, 020 8994 2148 (metropolitanpubcompany.com)

Get a GrOUP tOGetHer The Swan has magnums of wine that are

perfect for consuming with friends. The question is: will you succumb to the festive spirit and order the

five-litre Jeroboam? The Swan, 1 Evershed Walk, 119 Acton Lane, W4 5HH,

020 8994 8262 (theswanchiswick.co.uk)

PUt YOUr taste tO tHe testWe applaud those who claim life is too short to drink bad wine. Head over to Lea & Sandeman

for the best booze available this season, like the Barnaut Grande Réserve Brut Grand Cru Bouzy as a fizzy aperitif or the Château Bellevue La Forêt Côtes

du Frontonnais to accompany roast beef.Lea & Sandeman, 167 Chiswick High Road, W4 2DR,

020 8995 7355 (leaandsandeman.co.uk)

CupCAkEs AT CHâTEAu DEssErTimag

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[distillery tour]

the house thatGiN BuiLtThe gin revival sweeping through London is here to stay. on the quest for the most quaffable g&t in town, Lauren Romano drops by to the sipsmith distillery to toast its arrival in the neighbourhood

g&t aNYoNe? (left to right) jareD, sam aND fairfax raise a toast


of the strong stuff by teatime each day. ‘Our new home on Cranbrook Road is all about growing up and taking our dream of bringing London dry gin back to the capital where it all began,’ Sam says, as we tour the space, passing rotund drums of spirits and shelves of labelled samples, lined two or three deep. The place has the air of a slightly haphazard science laboratory: conical-like vessels and big bulbous bottles are everywhere and at its heart Prudence and co purr sporadically. As i peek through her portholes at the swell of a heady gin ocean, i notice frothy crests, which i’m told means her batch is almost ready.

despite the spirit’s historical London links, Sipsmith’s trio of copper stills are something of a rarity. ‘Over the last century, small-batch gin distillation using the traditional one-shot method started to give way to more mass-produced and concentrated methods, so spirit production moved slowly out of the capital in search of more industrially convenient locations,’ Sam tells me. ‘nobody was producing gin on the small scale that they used to, so when we applied for our licence for Prudence, nobody

In a distillery on Cranbrook Road sits Prudence and her sisters Patience and Constance. She does not, as you might assume, have a blue rinse, nor did she

take a wrong turn on her way to the bridge club. She is, in fact, the first copper still to launch in London for almost 200 years. with a vat of alcohol bubbling away in her belly, she is the formidable nucleus of the gin (and more recently, vodka) – making independent distillery: Sipsmith.

Having outgrown its original Hammersmith premises earlier this year (after producing more than 800 batches of spirits, no less), Prudence and the rest of team Sipsmith arrived in Chiswick during the summer. The distillery’s founders Sam Galsworthy and Fairfax Hall worked in the drinks industry for several years before deciding to turn their collective hands to producing delicious handmade spirits that celebrate the craft of distillation and artisanal methods.

‘we were overwhelmed by how supportive everyone was when we first started the distillery in nasmyth Street. Our new headquarters in Chiswick is part of a great neighbourhood with a fantastic food and drink scene; the residents and local businesses have been behind what we are doing from the start. working with our neighbours is the lifeblood of this business, so we wanted to stay where we are part of this special community.’

The new lock-up is more generously proportioned than its previous abode, which is just as well considering that the liquor-mongers churn out up to 300 bottles

in living memory had given one out. we set up Sipsmith because we are feverishly devoted to bringing the art and craft of distilling London dry gin, the way it used to be done.’ This respect for a traditional craft filters down to all aspects of the process. indeed, after a lengthy wait to be granted a licence, the team painstakingly designed their pride and joy with Germany’s oldest distillery producers Christian Carl – a small, family business that has been crafting magnificent stills since 1869. ‘we make an award-winning classic London dry gin that is more about timeless style than any passing fashion, so it has a flavour profile that is here to stay,’ Sam assures me.

Gin purists will be glad to hear that the Sipsmith offering is one of the only gins in the world made using the traditional one-shot method rather than a concentrate. The copper in its stills plays a big part in the resulting flavour of the alcohol since the metal reacts with it during the distilling process to remove some of the impurities, which less conscientious brewers might choose to filter out at the end, thereby impairing the taste. ‘Our gin was many months in the making, but with more than 30 international awards under its belt we think it was well worth the wait,’ Sam smiles

gET SIPPIng LOCaLLy

try your favourite sipsmith spirits at the following Chiswick and brook green

watering holes…

CHaRLOTTE’S BISTRO6 turnham green terrace, W4 1Qp,

020 8742 3590 (charlottes.co.uk/bistro)

SaM’S BRaSSERIE11 barley mow passage, W4 4ph,

020 8987 0555 (samsbrasserie.co.uk)

THE BROOK gREEn HOTEL (anD SMITH’S COCKTaIL BaR)

170 shepherds bush road, W6 7pb, 020 7603 2516 (brookgreenhotel.co.uk)

THE QUEEn’S HEaD13 brook green, W6 7bl, 020 7603 3174

(queensheadhammersmith.co.uk)

THE BIRD In HanD88 masbro road, W14 0lr, 020 7371 2721

(thebirdinhandlondon.com)

Gin production started to move slowly out of the

capital in search of more industrially

convenient locations

Where the magiC happeNs: the DistillerY’s ColleCtioN of botaNiCals aND samplesim

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ER


[distillery tour]

in London dry gin; Madagascan cinnamon bark and Chinese cassia

bark bring a delicate sweet spiciness; Spanish ground almond takes care of the marzipan notes and Bulgarian coriander seeds pack a mellow punch with a hint of ginger.

The distillery is a hive of activity and

runs regular tours which involve a tutored tasting of some of the award-winning spirits. ‘We had a blast this summer at Bedford Park Festival and

all the Chiswick Street Parties,’ Sam reveals. ‘This

winter, we’re attending the Park Club Strictly Come Dancing

charity event, we’ll be popping up at the odd local Christmas fair and we’re the official gin partner at Christmas at Kew.’

As I go to leave, Sam takes me through some of the other beverages that Sipsmith has perfected. Barley and damson vodkas and a Pimm’s alternative, Summer Cup – a thirst-quencher infused with Earl Grey tea, lemon verbena and cucumber – also get their turn in the vat. The beautifully syrupy sloe gin, meanwhile, is just crying out for the gluttonous festive season. Sam recommends mixing it with Champagne and serving it alongside a cheeseboard. Roll on Christmas.

The Sipsmith distillery, 83 Cranbrook Road, W4 2LJ, 020 8741 2034 (sipsmith.com)

as he pours me a fortifying drink.There’s an infectiously fun

feel to the whole operation; from the team’s evangelical love of spirits to Prudence’s name (inspired by a Gordon Brown remark on economic austerity) and the rumour that the company reportedly pays the farmer who supplies the water used to make the spirit with cases of gin. As I take a sip, I learn that the tipple in my glass is made from distilled vodka mixed with a blend of botanicals.

My lesson on the subject of gin begins over at a corner table, where, lined up in jars, are samples of the wondrous-sounding components. They look like an unusual assortment, but the team informs me that master distiller Jared scoured the history books for inspiration, so there is nothing here that would surprise a distiller from the 19th century. First up: Macedonian juniper berries. These little beads sit in my palm like fat peppercorns and, once crushed between finger and thumb, release a distinct eau de gin. Added to this, Seville orange peel lends a zesty tartness together with a few spirals of Spanish lemon peel for a ping of citrus.

Then there are the stranger aspects: Italian orris root (the root of the iris flower) which apparently delivers a delicate floral note despite its rather repugnant whiff, while a sprinkle of bittersweet Spanish liquorice root effervesces to neutralise the bitterness of any of the other botanicals. Belgian angelica root helps put the dry

a potted history of gin

The spirit first emerged in the English consciousness in Holland when soldiers

stationed there during the Thirty Years’ War observed Dutchmen downing a fortifying juniper

malt wine before battle. This, they nicknamed ‘Dutch Courage’. King William III of Orange kick-started the predilection for gin here.

1689: William III dropped the tax on spirit production, to make use of surplus grain and gin emerged in the capital’s popular punch houses.

1731: Gin and gingerbread were the gallows-side nourishment of the crowds congregating for public executions and were sold at market

stalls or from barrows on the streets.

1751: The brewing industry tried to topple the popularity of gin, after reformers had already

passed several acts to control the drink blamed for social decay. It commissioned Hogarth’s drawing Gin Lane which was meant to illustrate the evils of gin and promote beer consumption instead.

1770: Jean Schweppe’s first carbonated water, intended as an aid for digestive ailments, emerged and so a new tipple was born.

1820S: The invention of the distilling column paved the way for a new, drier

and regulated gin during the 1820s.

1850: G&Ts eventually arrived in 1850, initially as a palatable means of absorbing anti-malarial quinine for British troops in India. Then came

the invention of cocktails, and later still the birth of the Martini (‘a gin and it’, as it was formerly

known) and the rest, as they say, is history.

TAKE THE TOURThe next tours take place on

6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 January from 6.30pm-8pm, £15. Visit sipsmith.com for more

details and to book.

PRUDENCE TAKES PRIDE OF PLACE imag

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[letters]

The most pressing issues from chiswick and Brook green locals

word ontHe Street

If you have anything you’d like to share, ask or say, email us at [email protected], write to us at Chiswick & Brook Green, Runwild Media Group, 6th Floor, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AX or tweet us @Chiswick_BG

CHRISTMAS CHARITY

At this time of year it’s so important to remember that there are people in the area who are less fortunate than us, so i’d like to ask people to donate to a local charity when they’re out Christmas shopping. They will be incredibly grateful and it’s a gift worth giving. – Mrs Harrison, Flanchford Road

WHEELIE BAD IDEA

if the council gets its way and we’re all lumbered with large, unsightly wheelie bins, then Chiswick’s streets will be ruined. not only will the roads be scattered with the ugly plastic tubs on bin-collection day, what’s more pressing is the fact that there is nowhere for me to keep mine. i suppose the council would suggest i keep it in my living room with an ornamental vase on it or something equally ridiculous. i’m furious about the idea. – Mr Johns, Arlington Gardens

TALK OF THE TOWN

i’ve recently discovered that the Chiswick Pier Trust hosts talks and lectures from various interesting people about subjects that are very relevant to the area. i think this is fantastic and will definitely be attending more of the talks in the future. – Mr Knight, via email

THE CATS THAT HAVE THE SCREAM

i don’t know what’s going on, but a lot of my neighbours have cats that seem to be incredibly noisy at night. Perhaps it’s because they all live in close proximity to one another, but i’m often woken up by their screeching as they fight. it’s so inconsiderate for those of us without a pet. Can’t people choose to have a nice quiet tortoise instead? – Mrs Connelly, Addison Grove

WINTER WORRIES

Thank goodness for the mild autumn we’ve had. not only have i managed to keep the heating turned off, but it also means that the roads haven’t yet been damaged by severe frosts and cold weather. The roads around me are still scarred from the potholes of last winter and i’d hate to have to put up with any more. – Mr Poole, Pyrmont Road

STaRT aS yOU MEan TO gO On

We really enjoyed reading your first two issues that have been delivered – a great mix of local news

and events plus interesting features. i especially liked

the Chiswick Chatter section – we find there is

a real sense of community in Chiswick and brook

green (we used to live in brook green and moved

to Chiswick in 2012), so harnessing this in a

publication is an excellent idea!

– Mrs Keith via email

LOVELY ILLUMINATIONS

i have to say i am so impressed with the tasteful lights that people have put up in and around the area. it’s so nice to walk around under the warm glow and it makes everything feel very festive. i took my elderly mother for a wander the other day just as it was getting dark and she was so excited to see the twinkling decorations. – Mr Davies, Brooks Road

LOVE LIFE

isn’t community spirit a wonderful thing? There’s nothing better than walking along the High Road and recognising people every few yards or so. we’re very lucky here in this part of London since we have the best of both worlds; an intimate village feel and the hustle and bustle of city life. it’s a perfect combination. – Mrs Blain, via email

raisiNg moNeY for CharitY

ChisWiCk pier

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[property]

neW ProPertY PortaL to taKe on rigHtMoVe and ZooPLaChallenger property portal OnTheMarket.com is due to go live, going head-to-head with the incumbent property advertising websites Rightmove and Zoopla duopoly in the new Year, from 26 January 2015. The estate agency-owned portal – which was started by a panel of prime central London’s finest including renowned agents from Savills, Knight Frank, Strutt & Parker, Chestertons, douglas & Gordon and Glentree Estates – will launch with ‘a comprehensive and heavyweight media campaign’ and it promises to feature hundreds of thousands of properties available for sale from the first launch day.

This move is creating quite a stir in the industry and is on track to have more than 5,000 estate agency branches investing in the project by launch day, despite a clause that limits them to advertising properties on just one other portal – meaning that they will have to remove listings from either Rightmove or Zoopla – and a ban on online-only agents.

Forecast WatcHThere’s a consensus among property pundits that the

first half of next year will be quiet, with very little happening before the general election in May. The consensus, however, does not run that deep: prime central London house price forecasts for 2015 range from a five per cent drop (by Savills, assuming that a mansion tax is implemented) to a five per cent increase (by Chestertons, assuming the Conservatives

win the election and a mansion tax does not come to pass).

The most popular option, supported by both Knight Frank and winkworth, is that there will be no change at all in prices from January to december next year. Month-to-month could, however, be a little more turbulent, with winkworth forecasting a five per cent drop in average prices before May followed by a plus five per cent rally through the back end of the year.

Taking an average from six of the top estate agencies and research units, PrimeResi anticipates a slight 0.6 per cent increase in property prices in prime central London next year. nationally, and in Greater London, it’s likely that prices will rise a touch more, by around 2.6 per cent.

WitHdraWaLs and Price redUctions on tHe rise as London cooLsnot only is the number of properties being withdrawn from sale increasing – by 12.4 per cent year-on-year across prime central London – but new analysis by leading property data house Lonres has shown that weakening market conditions in the capital are forcing many vendors to accept lower prices than they anticipated in order to bag a sale. There’s a growing need for vendors (and estate agents and valuers) to ‘manage their expectations accordingly.’

The average per square foot sale price across

PropertyNewS


[property]

central London has rocketed by 45 per cent since 2009, so it’s perhaps no surprise that vendors’ expectations are still riding high, but it sounds like many are now unwilling to accept the reality of a slowing market.

ninety two per cent of estate agents feel that the majority of vendors are being unrealistic about their asking price, says Lonres, while 21 per cent claim that vendors are not only being unrealistic about the price, but are also unwilling to negotiate.

That being said, the level of negotiations is rising. during the third quarter, 60 per cent of properties that sold across central London were agreed below their initial asking price. This is still some way off the remarkable figure of 87 per cent seen at the beginning of 2009, but it’s definitely creeping in that direction (the proportion was at 50 per cent during the second quarter 2014).

Of all the properties currently available to buy across the Lonres area, 35.5 per cent have had a reduction in price since they were first marketed. A further 4.5 per cent of them have seen their asking price increase, while the remaining 60 per cent are still being offered for the price at which they were first launched.

The proportion of properties being marketed at lower prices than when they were launched is pretty consistent across prime London, with the lowest in the South (34.7 per cent) and the highest in the west (37 per cent). As for variations across the price ranges, the average asking price reduction is 7.6 per cent, but highest up in the £5million and above range, where it’s getting on for 10 per cent.

ForMer record LaBeL oFFices in BrooK green Hit tHe MarKet WitH residentiaL PotentiaLEMi House, a prominent office block with some serious long-term resi potential in Brook Green, has just been put up for sale for more than £50million.

Knight Frank has just launched the 85,672 sq ft freehold building at 43 Brook Green on behalf of ivG, with a guide price of £51.3million, reflecting an initial net yield of 5.25 per cent.

The six-storey block – which comes with 45 car parking spaces – is currently single-let to Halcrow Group Limited at a rent of £2.8million per annum and used to be the home of record label EMi. Halcrow recently

entered into a reversionary lease expiring on 24 december 2030.

According to Knight Frank: ‘This is a low passing rent compared with prime rents in Hammersmith in Central London, therefore offering excellent rental growth prospects. There is also long-term residual value underpinned by the potential for change of use to residential, subject to necessary consents.’

‘creaM coMes oFF tHe caKe’ as PriMe oUter London Prices FaLLAfter 40 months of on-the-trot growth, prices in prime outer London have finally seen a fall, dropping by 0.2 per cent in October, according to the latest from Knight Frank.

The area’s first price cut since May 2011 takes the annual growth rate back to plus 10.1 per cent – although that’s still up on last October’s plus 8.4 per cent.

South-west London, and Fulham in particular, bore the brunt of the decrease, which is being driven in part by uncertainty over what will happen in May, and whether there is actually cause for concern over a mansion tax on £2million homes, and in (probably larger) part by just a sensible adjustment after a prolonged positive stretch. in the east, however, prices still rose a bit.

‘what’s happening in Fulham is an adjustment that typically follows a period of rapid growth,’ says Anne Soutry, head of Knight Frank’s Fulham office. ‘it’s the cream coming off the cake.’


[property]

Building a PreSeNCe

‘From this time last year, applicants are up. Obviously there is a bit of uncertainty around the general election and, more specifically,

what the proposed mansion tax will involve but the assumption is that rents will go up, and with the improvement of yields there

will be more buy-to-let landlords,’ Elizabeth starts as she explains why she is optimistic in the medium term.

She sounds and looks like the consummate professional. You certainly wouldn’t be able to tell that she came to estate agency later in life. That is, after a history of art degree, a career at an auction house and even ‘a dabble at restoring cathedrals,’ a task Elizabeth accomplished wearing a mask ‘because pigeon poo is toxic’.

i am tempted to go easy on her. ‘it is my second week, after all’, she reminds me. But that’s not the whole story. Elizabeth tells me that she’s been at Knight Frank for eight years at the notting Hill office.

‘it feels like a natural progression to cover lettings down here. Tenants in notting Hill were always wanting bigger houses and more green space. Here, their money goes further.’ She points out the superficial similarities, from shops (Kitchen & Pantry) to members’ clubs (Soho House) but also the fundamentals, placing emphasis on the fact that 70 per cent of the market in notting Hill is international and Chiswick is where several international schools are located.

‘i think, as time goes by, we may even see some more celebrities fall into the Chiswick orbit. we have Pinewood and Shepperton studios quite nearby, after all.’ she says matter-of-factly. ‘How near?’ i tease. ‘Oh, it’s a small schlep,’ she laughs.

Elizabeth sets the promising prospects for Chiswick within a larger context, noting that the Crossrail project is changing people’s equations, ‘as is the regeneration of Shepherd’s Bush’. She has good reason to be positive; Knight Frank’s books show that yields have been the best registered in at least three years.

Elizabeth has not taken up the job as an outsider either. in fact, she’s been on Brook Green for two years and lived in the area for many before that, having moved to

It feels like a natural progression to cover lettings down here. Tenants in Notting Hill were always wanting bigger houses and more green space

Shepherd’s Bush after her university days. ‘i am a big fan of Chiswick & Brook Green’s self-sufficiency. More people live and work here than other parts of London – it’s so much less transient,’ she beams.

The passion shines through. it may be her second week, but she already has 12 instructions. She revels in the quirks of the job: ‘Every day is a new day; my most recent surprise was the landlord who only wanted vegetarian tenants’.

i ask what the plan is. ‘well, i think i’ve got the trust’, Elizabeth confesses; ‘now i’m off to swot up on the knowledge.’

64 Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick, W4 1QN, 020 3757 6230 (knightfrank.co.uk/chiswick)

elizabeth holDer, lettiNgs maNager

imag

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Nchiswick & Brook green is introduced to Knight Frank’s new lettings manager, elizabeth Holder

Dalling Road, Chiswick W6 A stunning family house to rent with a private garden A stunning family house situated in Brackenbury village. It comprises 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a spacious double reception room with a seperate dining area and eat‐in fitted kitchen. Other features include wooden flooring, cellar, front and rear garden. Unfurnished. EPC rating F.

Price: £1,400 per week

﴾CHQ207999﴿

Knightfrank.co.uk/Chiswick [email protected] 020 3757 6230

KnightFrank.co.uk

Dalling Road C&BG 25/11/2014 16:03:26

Hartington Road, Chiswick W4 An exceptional semi‐detached Victorian river property In excellent condition throughout, this charming riverside property comprises of five double bedrooms, a double reception room, bespoke kitchen, breakfast bar and large open plan living and dining area and a stunning 225ft garden leading to a purpose built studio and riverside terrace. EPC rating E.

Freehold.

Guide Price: £3,499,950

﴾CWK140022﴿


KnightFrank.co.uk

ChiswickAndBrookGreenNov14HartingtonRoad 25/11/2014 15:18:20

Dalling Road, Chiswick W6 A stunning family house to rent with a private garden A stunning family house situated in Brackenbury village. It comprises 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a spacious double reception room with a seperate dining area and eat‐in fitted kitchen. Other features include wooden flooring, cellar, front and rear garden. Unfurnished. EPC rating F.

Price: £1,400 per week

﴾CHQ207999﴿


KnightFrank.co.uk

Dalling Road C&BG 25/11/2014 16:03:26

Hartington Road, Chiswick W4 An exceptional semi‐detached Victorian river property In excellent condition throughout, this charming riverside property comprises of five double bedrooms, a double reception room, bespoke kitchen, breakfast bar and large open plan living and dining area and a stunning 225ft garden leading to a purpose built studio and riverside terrace. EPC rating E.

Freehold.

Guide Price: £3,499,950

﴾CWK140022﴿


KnightFrank.co.uk

ChiswickAndBrookGreenNov14HartingtonRoad 25/11/2014 15:18:20

Cygnet House, Chiswick Mall W4 A beautifully presented four bedroomed river property Situated in the highly sought after riverside location of Chiswick Mall, a superb Grade II listed period house with gardens, garage and direct river access. The property extends to approximately 195 sq m ﴾2,094 sq ft﴿ EPC rating E.

Freehold

Guide Price £2,750,000

﴾RVR100030﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/Chiswick [email protected] 020 3757 6230

KnightFrank.co.uk

ChiswickAndBrookGreent14Cygnet 25/11/2014 15:17:06

Chiswick High Road W4 A two bedroom, lower ground floor conversion flat A well presented Georgian conversion property, conveniently located just off Chiswick High Road. The living accomodation comprises two bedrooms, bathroom, an open plan kitchen/reception room and also benefits from private parking. EPC rating D.

Leasehold.

Guide Price: £499,950

﴾RCH140228﴿


KnightFrank.co.uk

ChiswickAndBrookGreenNov14ChiswickHighRoad 25/11/2014 15:21:05

Cygnet House, Chiswick Mall W4 A beautifully presented four bedroomed river property Situated in the highly sought after riverside location of Chiswick Mall, a superb Grade II listed period house with gardens, garage and direct river access. The property extends to approximately 195 sq m ﴾2,094 sq ft﴿ EPC rating E.

Freehold

Guide Price £2,750,000

﴾RVR100030﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/Chiswick [email protected] 020 3757 6230

KnightFrank.co.uk

ChiswickAndBrookGreent14Cygnet 25/11/2014 15:17:06

Chiswick High Road W4 A two bedroom, lower ground floor conversion flat A well presented Georgian conversion property, conveniently located just off Chiswick High Road. The living accomodation comprises two bedrooms, bathroom, an open plan kitchen/reception room and also benefits from private parking. EPC rating D.

Leasehold.

Guide Price: £499,950

﴾RCH140228﴿


KnightFrank.co.uk

ChiswickAndBrookGreenNov14ChiswickHighRoad 25/11/2014 15:21:05

Inside every great home is anexceptional Christmas waiting to happen.

sold

Rutland GRove, W6Guide £2.75 million

sold

Quick Road, W4Guide £1.175 million

At Christmas, we appreciate a beautiful home and the memories it creates. Whether buying, selling, renting or letting, we can find the perfect match for you.

Here is a selection of properties we have recently sold and let, where we have made a big difference for our clients.

sold & let

netheRavon Road, W4Ground floor flat Guide £795,000 | Guide £650 per weektop floor flat Guide £995,000

sold

edith Road, W14Guide £1.495 million

sold

Queen annes GaRdens, W4Guide £3.95 million

sold

BRook GReen, W6Guide £3.75 million

savills.co.uk

Inside every great home is anexceptional Christmas waiting to happen.

sold

Rutland GRove, W6Guide £2.75 million

sold

Quick Road, W4Guide £1.175 million

At Christmas, we appreciate a beautiful home and the memories it creates. Whether buying, selling, renting or letting, we can find the perfect match for you.

Here is a selection of properties we have recently sold and let, where we have made a big difference for our clients.

sold & let

netheRavon Road, W4Ground floor flat Guide £795,000 | Guide £650 per weektop floor flat Guide £995,000

sold

edith Road, W14Guide £1.495 million

sold

Queen annes GaRdens, W4Guide £3.95 million

sold

BRook GReen, W6Guide £3.75 million

savills.co.uk

savills.co.uk

SOLD

Linden Gardens, W4Guide £1.15 miLLion

SOLD

Hansard meWs, W14Guide £1 miLLion

Savills Brook Green 166 shepherd’s Bush road London W6 7PB020 3618 3777

SOLD

Park mansions, W6Guide £475,000

SOLD

Brook Green, W6Guide £2.55 miLLion

Let

BoLinGBroke road, W14Guide £1,500 per week

Let

THe avenue, W4Guide £1,900 per week

SOLD

BuTe Gardens, W6Guide £2.55 miLLion

Let

aPeX CourT, W12Guide £295 per week

With 31 offices in London, 80 in the UK and over 600 worldwide, we have got the market covered.

Let

CHisWiCk HiGH road, W4Guide £415 per week

Let

maCLise road, W14Guide £440 per week

Let

WeLTJe road, W6Guide £1,075 per week

Let

raneLaGH Gardens, W4Guide £975 per week

Savills Chiswick 92 Turnham Green Terrace London W4 1Qn020 8987 5550

Let

HeaTHfieLd TerraCe, W4Guide £975 per week

savills.co.uk

SOLD

Linden Gardens, W4Guide £1.15 miLLion

SOLD

Hansard meWs, W14Guide £1 miLLion

Savills Brook Green 166 shepherd’s Bush road London W6 7PB020 3618 3777

SOLD

Park mansions, W6Guide £475,000

SOLD

Brook Green, W6Guide £2.55 miLLion

Let

BoLinGBroke road, W14Guide £1,500 per week

Let

THe avenue, W4Guide £1,900 per week

SOLD

BuTe Gardens, W6Guide £2.55 miLLion

Let

aPeX CourT, W12Guide £295 per week

With 31 offices in London, 80 in the UK and over 600 worldwide, we have got the market covered.

Let

CHisWiCk HiGH road, W4Guide £415 per week

Let

maCLise road, W14Guide £440 per week

Let

WeLTJe road, W6Guide £1,075 per week

Let

raneLaGH Gardens, W4Guide £975 per week

Savills Chiswick 92 Turnham Green Terrace London W4 1Qn020 8987 5550

Let

HeaTHfieLd TerraCe, W4Guide £975 per week

This stunning three bedroom two bathroom townhouse enjoys arguably the best river views in Chiswick. Located within this prestigious gated development the property offers excellent contemporary space over four levels to include garage/storage plus off street parking. 25’ landscaped garden with direct access to the towpath. Freehold. EPC rating = C

Osier Mews, W4

• Gated riverside development• Arguably best views in Chiswick• Three large double bedrooms

• Two bathrooms• Two reception rooms• Top floor master suite

• Private walled garden• Off street parking• Freehold

£1,950,000 Freehold

First time to the market in 60 years this stunning example of a Norman Shaw designed detached home in arguably the premier road in Bedford Park. Grade II listed built in 1878, this imposing residence benefits from east/west aspects, 60’ x 43’ west facing garden and large garage. Outside is the large 25’9 x 16’2 garage. Freehold.

Queen Annes Gardens, Bedford Park, W4

• First time to the market in 60 years• Grade II listed detached residence• Prime Bedford Park location

• Original layout• Three reception rooms• Six bedrooms

• Three bathrooms• Large garage• West facing garden



Osier Mews, W4










£4,500,000 FreeholdChiswick Staithe, W4 £1,800,000 Freehold

An excellent four bedroom two bathroom riverside home enjoying a south westerly aspect over the river toward Kew. 39’ garden ending with 23’ decked area overhanging the river. Freehold EPC rating = C

• Popular residential road• South westerly aspect• Four bedrooms

• 31’ Kitchen/family room• Spacious reception with river view• 39’ garden and 23’ decked area

• Parking• Close to Chiswick Mainline• Freehold

www.andrewnunnassociates.co.uk ⃒ 020 8995 1500 ⃒ [email protected]


Osier Mews, W4












Osier Mews, W4










£4,500,000 FreeholdDukes Avenue, W4 £2,500,000 Freehold

A wonderful opportunity to acquire this family house in Dukes Avenue with a west facing rear garden enjoying uninterrupted aspects over gardens towards the west. Freehold. EPC rating = E

• Prime central location• Semi-detached family house• Wonderful west facing garden

• Six bedrooms• Two bathrooms• Two receptions

• Vaulted kitchen• Off street parking• Freehold

www.andrewnunnassociates.co.uk ⃒ 020 8995 1500 ⃒ [email protected]

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

£1,150,000Freehold

Cardross Street W6 Spread over 1,095 sq.ft. and boasting alovely patio garden is this family home.Located in the heart of Brackenburyvillage, the property is close to manysought-after schools. Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales

020 8563 7100 | [email protected]

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom,Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen,Play room, Garden, EPC: E.

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham East Putney Southfields & Earlsfield West Putney

douglasandgordon.com

£1,350 per week Fees apply

Unfurnished

St. Peters Square W6 A spacious family house spread over2,200 sq.ft in this popular square, closeto Stamford Brook. The property offersoff-street parking and a private garagewith direct access to the house.Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Lettings


5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms(1 en-suite), 3 reception rooms, Kitchen,Parking, Communal gardens, EPC: D.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush Kensington Kensington Gate South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

£1,150,000Freehold

Cardross Street W6 Spread over 1,095 sq.ft. and boasting alovely patio garden is this family home.Located in the heart of Brackenburyvillage, the property is close to manysought-after schools. Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Sales


2 double bedrooms, Bathroom,Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen,Play room, Garden, EPC: E.

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham East Putney Southfields & Earlsfield West Putney

douglasandgordon.com

£1,350 per week Fees apply

Unfurnished

St. Peters Square W6 A spacious family house spread over2,200 sq.ft in this popular square, closeto Stamford Brook. The property offersoff-street parking and a private garagewith direct access to the house.Hammersmith & Shepherds Bush Lettings


5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms(1 en-suite), 3 reception rooms, Kitchen,Parking, Communal gardens, EPC: D.

ProPerty.

It’s not just what we do,

It’s who we are.

London Estates are pleased to bring to market this fantastic well proportioned bay fronted Victorian house with potential to extend into the loft and side return. It has good ceiling height and generous bedrooms. Cobbold Road runs just off Askew Road, and is one of Askew Village’s most desirable roads, being just a stones throw from Wendell Park. It has all the local amenities on your doorstep and is approximately a 15 minute walk to Ra-venscourt Park or Stamford Brook (District Line tubesPlease call us to arrange a viewing.

LONDON ESTATES61 DALLiNg ROAD, HAmmERSmiTH, LONDON, W6 [email protected]

£885,000

• GreatLocation• ScopetoextendSTP

• Goodschoolcatchment• Periodfeatures

Cobbold Road W12

ProPerty.

It’s not just what we do,

It’s who we are.

Opening doorsin London since 1856

From the moment you walk through one of our doors, you’ll only deal with someone who lives and breathes your local property market.

Someone who knows exactly which buttons to press to sell or let your home. And someone who understands that determination and integrity will open more doors for you than any other approach.

So why not visit one of our 22 London o� ces? As we’ve been saying since 1856, our door’s always open...

marshandparsons.co.uk

Opening doorsin London since 1856

From the moment you walk through one of our doors, you’ll only deal with someone who lives and breathes your local property market.

Someone who knows exactly which buttons to press to sell or let your home. And someone who understands that determination and integrity will open more doors for you than any other approach.

So why not visit one of our 22 London o� ces? As we’ve been saying since 1856, our door’s always open...

marshandparsons.co.uk

www.lilouetloic.com

Lilou et LoïcL O N D O N

3kg Scented Candle From The Emperor Collection

SIZE DOES MATTER...

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Chiswick & Brook Green December 2014