“If Kent is the Garden of England, then Maidstone is its gate.”
Neil McAllister visits this gorgeous part of the world this week — including Leeds Castle, which is our front cover painting, posh Knightrider Street, and the surrounding villages on another lovely blue day.
He really has had a good run of it with the weather recently, although apparently this all changed on his recent visit across the Irish Sea, when thundery showers blew through.
Sherlock
Who can resist a dog in booties? Sherlock is another addition to the list of incredible dogs we’ve had in the magazine, as he can sniff out the causes of fires and help the investigation team.
In this week’s issue, his handler, Paul, tells us about the work he does, and how Sherlock’s safety is always their foremost concern.
Queen Vic
It’s the bicentenary of Queen Victoria’s birth this week, and Ian Lloyd is taking a look at how she spoke about some of her contemporaries in her writing. Ian’s written a book about the Queen, “An Audience With Queen Victoria”, which is well worth a read. Find out the details of it on page 59.
Terrific Tomatoes
Celebrate British Tomato Fortnight with our tasty recipes. Fruit and veg tastes better the closer to home it’s grown, so we’re delighted to be sharing these recipes to help you make the most of fresh British toms.
We’ve also got a lovely stripey top in the knitting, more great gardening advice from Alexandra Campbell, and all your puzzles favourites!
By subscribing this week, you’ll not only pay less per issue and have the magazine delivered to your door, we’re also giving this Kew Gardens Southbourne Rose Cake Stand as a free gift! Find out more on our shop page.
Alex Corlett I am the "Friend's" Features Editor, working with the talented Features Team to bring you everything from cryptic crosswords to financial advice, knitting patterns to international travel and inspirational real life stories. Always on the hunt for a new feature idea, I also enjoy cycling and love a good tea room.
