Celebrate International Friendship Day with Food, Drink and a Friendly Party

International Friendship Day, celebrated on the 30th July every year, is the perfect excuse to gather your best mates, share some great food and drink, and remind each other just how much those bonds mean. 

Whether you’ve been friends since childhood or only recently connected over shared hobbies or work, it’s time to raise a glass (and a fork) to friendship!

Here’s how to throw the perfect Friendship Day celebration filled with warmth, laughter, and deliciousness.

Friendship on a Plate: Sharing Food, Sharing Love

Food has always been a unifier. For International Friendship Day, focus on sharing-style meals. Think platters of tapas, mezze boards, a big pasta bake, or even a make-your-own taco bar. 

Encourage each friend to bring a dish that means something to them — a family recipe, a cultural favourite, or even just their go-to comfort food.

Fun Idea: Print little cards where everyone can write what their dish is and why they chose it. It’s a great icebreaker and can lead to some lovely conversations.

Drinks That Toast to Togetherness

Whether you’re all about cocktails, mocktails, or a good cuppa, having a special Friendship Day drink adds a fun twist to the day. Try creating a “Friendship Punch” fruity, refreshing, and perfect for a crowd. Or mix up some personalised cocktails named after each guest!

For non-drinkers, stock up on artisanal sodas, fresh juices, herbal teas and sparkling water garnished with fruit and herbs. Cheers to friendship, whatever your glass holds!

Friendly Vibes Only: Setting the Mood

Make the space feel welcoming. String lights, bunting, a playlist filled with everyone's favourites, and maybe a few photos of fun memories, this is your time to get sentimental. You might even set up a “Friendship Wall” where people can pin up their favourite memory with someone at the party.

Include some light games or a friendship quiz, or even host a mini “awards” session where everyone gets a silly prize (Best Hugger, Most Likely to Reply with Memes, etc.).

Sweet Treats for Sweet Friends

No party is complete without dessert! Think cupcakes with friend-themed toppers, a big pavlova to share, or even a build-your-own sundae station. Add some edible glitter or heart sprinkles to make it extra cheerful.

You could also bake biscuits and pop them in little goodie bags for each guest to take home, a thoughtful touch that says, “Thanks for being a friend."

Don’t Forget the Message Behind the Fun

While the food and laughter are important, so is taking a moment to express gratitude. A short toast, a handwritten note, or even a simple hug can make your friends feel valued and appreciated.

In Summary…

Friendship is one of life’s greatest gifts. On International Friendship Day, why not take a little time to nurture those connections in the best way we humans know how, over food, drink, and shared joy.

So go on, throw that party, lift those glasses, pass the snacks, and remind your mates: you’re part of what makes life so good.

STK London: The Ultimate Summer Destination for Rosé-Fuelled Days & High-Energy Weekends

This summer, STK London invites guests to experience the season in style with two must-visit experiences: the return of its iconic Vibe Brunch and the launch of the Whispering Angel Terrace, a picturesque new space dedicated to chilled rosé, curated cocktails and open-air vibes. 

The newly unveiled Whispering Angel Terrace is where the world's most iconic rosé meets one of London's most glamorous hospitality destinations. 

Guests are invited to unwind in the open air while sipping bespoke cocktails made with Whispering Angel, including the Blushing Sunset, a refreshing mix of peach liqueur and Aperol and the Elderflower Kiss, crafted with mint, elderflower and lime. 

These drinks are designed to compliment STK's signature small plates, from indulgent sliders to truffle parmesan fries, all served to the soundtrack of live DJ sets that transition the vibe effortlessly from relaxed afternoons to early evening energy.

Meanwhile, STK's ever-popular Vibe Brunch returns every Saturday with its signature blend of bold flavours, flowing drinks and immersive entertainment. For £49 per person, guests enjoy a multi-course brunch experience that begins with a selection of sharing starters and leads into a choice of mains such as roasted salmon, steak and eggs, or the ever-popular buttermilk chicken and waffles. 

The experience ends with a party-style dessert board, designed for the table and guaranteed to impress. Guests can elevate their brunch with 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco, selected cocktails or Moët & Chandon champagne.

Guests can expect live DJs, saxophone performances and a high-energy crowd that create an atmosphere that's equal parts stylish and spirited. 

STK Steakhouse & Bar 

The Gantry, 40 Celebration Ave, East Village, London E20 1DB 

Monday - Sunday: 11.30 am to 12 am 

STK Steakhouse Strand 

336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA 

Monday - Thursday: 11.30 am to 12 am 

Friday: 11.30 am to 1 am 

Saturday: 1 pm to 1 am 

Sunday: 1 pm to 11 pm 

Website: www.stksteakhouse.com. 

Instagram: @stk.london 

ScentAir: The Staycation Luxury You Didn't Know You Needed

This summer, forget the stress of packing, airports, and itineraries. 

With ScentAir, a global leader in home fragrance innovation, you can create a luxurious holiday atmosphere in the comfort of your own home. 

As more people embrace the art of the elevated staycation, fragrance has become the secret to transforming everyday spaces into transportive retreats. 

Experience the soft breeze of a coastal walk along sun-drenched beaches, the indulgent calm of a poolside escape, or the crisp mountain air with fragrances designed to help you unwind, recharge, and feel your home in a completely new way.   

“Scent has the power to shift the energy of a space,” said Stephanie Soittoux, Manager of EMEA Marketing and eCommerce at ScentAir, told That's Food and Drink. 

“During a staycation, fragrance sets the scene, helping you unwind, feel present, and bring the ease and pace of a holiday to everyday surroundings. At ScentAir, we believe you don’t need a suitcase to travel.”

ScentAir helps staycationers turn their homes into true destinations with travel-inspired favourites like Isle of Capri, a sun-warmed citrus escape; Tropical Coconut, a beachy, breezy classic; and Seaside Driftwood, reminiscent of fresh coastal air. For those seeking a spa retreat, clean, calming scents like Green Clover & Aloe or White Tea & Thyme bring instant serenity to any space.

Top Staycation Fragrance Tips:

Select fragrances inspired by your favourite destinations or getaways

Pair your evening cocktail with a sun-soaked, summer-ready scent 

Use scent to shift the mood from day to night – bright, beachy notes for daytime, and soft, sophisticated scents after sundown

Spritz your bedroom with a calming room spray for hotel-level comfort

Let fragrance take you somewhere beautiful – no passport required 

Discover more staycation-ready fragrances at scentair.com. 

Stig's Cider? Sandford Orchards Launches Ben's Cider, at the First Ever Bristol Cider Week, in Collaboration With Ben Collins

Sandford Orchards is launching a new Vintage Straw Pressed Fine Cider (ABV 6.8%) created in collaboration with Ben Collins, formerly known as The Stig. 

The cider will be launched on 30th July at the inaugural Bristol Cider Week and will be available in 750ml bottles RRP £14.50 from www.sandfordorchards.co.uk and other retail outlets.

Barny Butterfield, founder of Sandford Orchards, told That's Food and Drink: “Not many people know that there is a very different side to the racing driver who was once The Stig on Top Gear and a stunt driver for James Bond. 

"He's also now a farmer in Devon who wants to grow apples and make fantastic, truly authentic cider. We have been working with him on that journey and Straw Pressed is the result of our first collaboration.”

Using a centuries-old, single screw, Devon straw press, Ben and Barny hand-pressed apples from an ancient orchard at Prowse Farm, which contains a unique collection of cider varieties. 

The result of their labours is a spectacular cider with a burgundy hue and notes of grapefruit and melon running through a classic Devonian bittersweet farmhouse blend. 

It's a fine cider with truly extraordinary lineage, born in the nineteenth century. Slowly fermented and naturally bright and unfiltered, a whisper of yeast may remain as a final reminder: this is living history in a bottle.

Ben's Cider will be launched at the first ever Bristol Cider Week, the Oktoberfest of cider that aims to firmly establish Bristol as the undisputed 'Cider Capital of the World'. 

Running from 25th July until 3rd August there will be parties, tastings, dinners, talks and workshops alongside a city-wide Cider Trail and a city centre block party hosted by Cider City. There will be two opportunities to meet Sandford Orchards and Ben and be the first to taste the new cider as well as a diverse selection of Sandford Orchards' craft ciders, all made with fresh juice from British cider apples. 

Join Sandford Orchards and Ben at 5pm on 30th July at  The Apple (unticketed event) or at 7pm at The Steam Crane (admission by tickets available here from eventbrite.co.uk).

Ben adds: ”My early years were spent on a farm in Devon and I have always had a dream to return to that life. It has been immensely rewarding to tap into Barny's vast experience to help me to create my own cider orchard and to make my very first cider. 

"Traditional English cider making is a rare process that touches your soul through every sense. Barny shares my passion for doing things “right” and I'm delighted to be working with one of the best cider makers in the country. We are both looking forward to slaking the thirsty with our first batch of this straw-pressed special.”

Barny finishes: “It is always a pleasure to collaborate on a new cider. It is always enlightening to bring a new perspective and distinctive skill set to the mix and we've been inspired to seek out more opportunities like this going forward so watch this space.”

Sandford Orchards X Ben's Cider (ABV 6.8%) 2024 Vintage Straw Pressed Fine Cider will be available in 750ml bottles from www.sandfordorchards.co.uk and other retail outlets RRP £14.50. It will also be available to the trade in 30 litre kegs.

For further information on Sandford Orchards please visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk/cider-awards or follow Sandford Orchards on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. 

For more information about Ben Collins please visit www.bencollins.com. 

For more information about Bristol Cider Week please visit www.bristolciderweek.co.uk.

How to Launch a Local Food and Drink Trail with Your Tourism Board, Chamber of Commerce and Businesses

Creating a food and drink trail in your local town or suburb is a fantastic way to promote regional producers, support small businesses, and encourage tourism. 

Whether you're in a bustling market town, a picturesque suburb, or a rural village, a well-organised trail can bring people together and boost the local economy. 

Here's how you can get started by working collaboratively with your tourism board, chamber of commerce, and food and drink businesses.

1. Understand the Power of a Food and Drink Trail

Food and drink trails offer visitors a curated experience, a way to sample the best local bites, sips, and stories in one cohesive journey. 

Trails not only encourage people to explore your area, but they also extend visitor stays, increase spending in local shops, and create memorable experiences that drive return visits and positive word of mouth.

2. Rally Your Partners

A successful trail starts with collaboration. Reach out to:

Your Local Tourism Board – They can help with promotion, mapping, branding, and grant funding.

Chamber of Commerce – They’ll likely know all the local business owners and can coordinate with a wider network of stakeholders.

Independent Businesses – Bakeries, breweries, distilleries, delis, cafés, pubs, farm shops, and restaurants all bring something unique to the table.

Host a meeting to share the concept and invite feedback. Emphasise how participation can increase footfall and visibility for each venue.

3. Decide on the Trail Format

Will it be a walking trail, a driving route, or a combination of both? Consider:

Themed Trails – For example, “The Artisan Trail”, “Sweet Tooth Tour”, or “Ale and Tapas Route”.

Time-Limited Events – A weekend trail, monthly tasting night, or seasonal campaign (like a Christmas trail).

Permanent Trail – With printed maps, a mobile app, or signage around town.

Whatever format you choose, make sure it’s accessible and clearly signposted.

4. Create a Brand and Marketing Plan

Work with your tourism board and local creatives to design a logo, trail map, and website or landing page. Include:

Descriptions of each business on the trail

Opening hours

Contact details

Social media handles

GPS or paper map routes

Encourage each business to promote the trail on their own platforms, and consider setting up a dedicated Instagram or Facebook page.

5. Offer Incentives and Experiences

Add value to your trail by offering:

Passports and Stamps – Visitors get a stamp at each stop and can win a prize for completing the trail.

Tasting Experiences – Offer exclusive samples, behind-the-scenes tours, or chef’s specials for trail participants.

Trail Tickets – Charge a small fee to cover a tasting at each location, which can help with logistics and funding.

6. Think Seasonally and Sustainably

Plan themed trails around events like British Food Fortnight, harvest season, or Christmas markets. Make sure you include:

Recycling points

Clear travel information (public transport options or parking)

Accessibility for all

This will help position your trail as a responsible and inclusive experience.

7. Measure and Celebrate Success

Track attendance, social media engagement, and business feedback. Ask visitors for reviews and testimonials. Celebrate your successes with press coverage, thank-you events, and public recognition of participating businesses.

Conclusion: Taste the Potential

A food and drink trail isn't just about eating and drinking – it’s about community pride, storytelling, and economic development. By bringing together your local tourism board, chamber of commerce, and food and drink businesses, you can create something that puts your town or suburb on the culinary map.

So, get planning, get tasting, and get your town ready to show off its finest flavours!

Need help planning your trail or designing your promotional materials? Your tourism board may offer support, and many local designers or marketing students are keen to get involved in community projects. Keep it local – and keep it delicious!

Discover the Charm of Joules Pubs: A West Midlands Must-Visit for Food and Ale Lovers

If you find yourself in the West Midlands and have a hankering for hearty food, brilliant beer, and a quintessentially British pub experience, there’s one name you should absolutely seek out – Joules.

Steeped in tradition and brimming with character, Joules Brewery is a proudly independent Shropshire-based brewery with deep roots in the region's brewing heritage. 

Their distinctive red cross logo  is an ancient marker of quality and finding it outside a pub is a good sign you’re in for something special.

A Slice of History in Every Sip

The Joules name dates back to 1758, making it one of the most storied breweries in the UK. After a brief hiatus, the brewery was revived in Market Drayton in the early 2000s, where it continues to produce award-winning ales using traditional methods and local ingredients.

Their beers pay homage to the past while embracing the present – from the classic Joules Pale Ale, a crisp and refreshing drink with subtle hoppy bitterness, to the rich and smooth Slumbering Monk, a full-bodied favourite that’s perfect for cooler evenings.

Don’t Miss: Green Monkey

One of the stars of the Joules lineup is Green Monkey, a clean, continental-style lager with a cheeky name and a serious fan base. Brewed with natural mineral water and fine hops, it’s incredibly drinkable and pairs beautifully with food – particularly fish and chips, burgers or anything grilled.

Joules pubs also serve a variety of IPAs, stouts and seasonal brews that rotate throughout the year. Whether you prefer something light and citrusy or dark and malty, there’s always something interesting on tap. And they have a fine range of wines, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks, too.

Food that Feeds the Soul

While Joules may be known for their beer, don’t overlook the food. Joules pubs focus on locally sourced ingredients, classic British dishes, and generous portions. Expect to find everything from homemade pies and Sunday roasts to artisan burgers, ploughman’s lunches and vegetarian specials. The menus vary slightly from pub to pub, giving each one a unique flavour.

Some even offer beer-infused dishes – think steak and ale pie made with Joules’ own brew, or ale-battered fish served with hand-cut chips and mushy peas.

A Pub Experience Like No Other

Walking into a Joules pub is like stepping into a cosy, character-filled haven. They take pride in restoring historic pubs or building new ones that echo traditional styles – complete with oak beams, open fires, flagstone floors and a welcoming atmosphere.

They’re not part of a faceless chain. Each Joules pub has its own identity, with friendly staff, thoughtful décor and a real sense of place. Dogs and muddy boots are often welcome, and you’ll find everything from quiz nights to acoustic sessions depending on where you go.

Where to Find Joules Pubs

While Joules Brewery is based in Market Drayton, you’ll find their pubs dotted around Staffordshire, Shropshire, the Black Country, Cheshire and into Wales, ideal for a detour during a Midlands countryside walk, a day out in a market town, or even a short pub crawl in a historic village.

Some popular Joules pubs include:

The Crown Wharf (Stone) – a striking canalside venue with great views and even better beer

The Henry Tudor Inn Barracks Passage, Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury

The Red Lion (Market Drayton) – the original Joules Tap House, bursting with charm and history

The Cock Hotel, Wellington, Shropshire, an ancient coaching inn

The New Inn, Newport, Shropshire,

The Red Lion, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

The Cross Keys, Chester

The Royal Oak, Wrexham, Wales

To check out the 40+ tap houses visit https://www.joulesbrewery.co.uk/our-taphouses

Joules pubs are a true Midlands treasure. They combine heritage, hospitality and hand-crafted brewing in a way that few other pub groups can match. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, a lover of British pub culture, or simply someone looking for a very good meal in good company, a Joules pub is always worth seeking out.

So next time you’re in the West Midlands, follow the red cross – and raise a glass to one of Britain’s finest independent breweries. Cheers!

https://www.joulesbrewery.co.uk

The Surprising Twist Your Snack Game Needs — Savoury Popcorn

Popcorn has long been a staple of movie nights and cosy evenings in, typically drenched in butter or dusted with sugar for that classic sweet-salty hit. 

But what if we told you popcorn could take on a whole new life, one that’s bold, flavour-packed, and decidedly savoury?

Savoury popcorn is having a moment, and it’s easy to see why. 

It’s quick to make, infinitely customisable, and delivers the kind of snack satisfaction that rivals crisps, nuts, or even that cheeky packet of mini cheddars.

Why Go Savoury?

Let’s be honest — not everyone has a sweet tooth, and even those who do sometimes want something a bit punchier. Savoury popcorn caters to those cravings. It’s lighter than many processed snacks, can be made with just a few ingredients, and offers a blank canvas for big, exciting flavours.

Plus, it’s easy to make vegan or gluten-free, and it works just as well for a solo snack session as it does in a bowl at a party.

Flavours to Try

Here are a few savoury popcorn ideas that’ll have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about this humble puffed corn:

1. Smoky Paprika & Sea Salt

A smoky, sultry twist with depth. Mix olive oil or melted butter with smoked paprika, sea salt, and a touch of black pepper for a simple yet addictive option.

2. Cheese & Chive

A sprinkle of nutritional yeast gives a vegan-friendly cheesy vibe, or go full cheddar by tossing hot popcorn with finely grated hard cheese and chopped chives. Finish with a tiny pinch of garlic powder for extra zing.

3. Curry-Spiced Popcorn

Warm and aromatic, this one's for fans of bold flavours. Toss your popcorn with coconut oil, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chilli flakes for a punchy Indian-inspired snack.

4. Truffle Oil & Parmesan

For something a little posh, drizzle warm popcorn with a touch of truffle oil and a snow of finely grated Parmesan. It’s simple, elegant, and a guaranteed conversation-starter.

5. Nori & Sesame

Go East Asian with crumbled nori sheets, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil. Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for a deeper umami kick.

How to Make It

The method is simple:

Pop your corn – You can do this in a pan with a splash of oil or use an air-popper for a healthier option.

Add fat – A little oil or melted butter helps the seasonings stick. Coconut oil works beautifully with spices; olive oil suits herbs and garlic.

Sprinkle your flavourings – While the popcorn is still warm, toss it with your savoury seasonings. Shake well in a lidded bowl or toss gently by hand.

Taste and tweak – A pinch more salt? More heat? Make it your own.

Where to Find It

If you’re not ready to make your own just yet, more UK snack brands are getting in on the savoury popcorn trend. Look out for flavours like sour cream & chive, sriracha, dill pickle, or even Marmite from artisan popcorn producers. Some local farmers' markets even sell small-batch savoury popcorns with unique twists.

Savoury popcorn is more than a mere novelty, it’s a delicious, flexible snack that’s surprisingly grown-up. Whether you’re after something light with a glass of wine or a big, flavour-packed bowl to share with mates, this twist on a classic delivers.

So, next time you reach for the microwave bag, why not think beyond sugar and salt? 

Chia Seeds: Tiny Superfood with Mighty Benefits

Chia seeds may be small, but don’t be fooled by their size, these little black or white seeds pack a powerful nutritional punch. 

Once a staple food of the Aztecs and Mayans, chia seeds have surged in popularity across the UK in recent years, finding their way into everything from smoothies and yoghurts to baked goods and energy bars.

But what exactly makes chia seeds a superfood, and how can they benefit your health?

What Are Chia Seeds?

Chia seeds come from Salvia hispanica, a plant native to Central America, a member of the mint family. They are naturally gluten-free and can be eaten raw or cooked. Their mild, nutty flavour makes them versatile in the kitchen, and their unique ability to absorb up to 10 times their weight in water gives them a gel-like texture when soaked—perfect for puddings, drinks, or egg replacements in vegan baking.

Nutritional Profile

A single 28g (about two tablespoons) serving of chia seeds contains:

Fibre: 11g

Protein: 4g

Fat: 9g (5g of which are omega-3s)

Calcium: 18% of the RDI

Magnesium: 30% of the RDI

Phosphorus: 27% of the RDI

All this for under 140 calories. That’s impressive.

The Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

1. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 that supports heart health. While ALA isn’t quite as powerful as EPA or DHA found in fish, it’s still beneficial—particularly for vegetarians and vegans.

2. Excellent Source of Fibre

With nearly 40% of their weight being fibre, chia seeds can help support digestion, promote regular bowel movements, and feed beneficial gut bacteria. Their high soluble fibre content also contributes to a feeling of fullness, making them a helpful addition to weight management diets.

3. Packed with Antioxidants

Chia seeds contain antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body, which may reduce inflammation and slow down the ageing process.

4. Support Bone Health

Rich in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, chia seeds are a strong plant-based ally for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

5. Aid in Blood Sugar Regulation

Thanks to their high fibre and healthy fat content, chia seeds may help slow the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, which can help prevent spikes and crashes in blood glucose.

6. Plant-Based Protein

Chia seeds are a good source of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids—excellent news for those following vegetarian or vegan diets.

How to Use Chia Seeds

Here are some simple and tasty ways to incorporate chia seeds into your daily diet:

Chia Pudding: Mix 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with 200ml of milk or a milk alternative, add sweetener and flavourings (like vanilla or cocoa), and let sit overnight.

Smoothie Booster: Add a spoonful to your morning smoothie for extra nutrients and thickness.

Baking: Stir into muffins, bread, or flapjack recipes.

Egg Replacement: Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it gel, this can replace one egg in vegan baking.

Sprinkle on Top: Add to yoghurt, porridge, salads or soups for a bit of crunch and extra nutrition.

A Few Words of Caution

Chia seeds are safe for most people, but due to their high fibre content, it’s best to introduce them gradually to avoid digestive upset. Also, because they absorb water so effectively, always consume them with plenty of liquid—eating dry chia seeds alone is not recommended.

Chia seeds are a true superfood, nutrient-dense, versatile, and easy to incorporate into almost any meal. Whether you're aiming to boost your fibre intake, up your omega-3s, or just looking for a healthy way to feel fuller for longer, chia seeds are well worth a spot in your pantry.

If you haven’t tried them yet, why not start with a simple chia pudding or a smoothie sprinkle? These tiny seeds might just become your new kitchen staple.

How to Choose the Best Cutlery for Your Home, or as a Wedding or Housewarming Gift

Cutlery is more than just a daily essential, it’s a reflection of your style, your lifestyle, and often the tone you want to set when hosting family or friends. 

Whether you're shopping for your own home or searching for the perfect wedding or housewarming gift, the right set of cutlery combines function, form and lasting quality.

Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect cutlery set – one that fits beautifully into everyday life or makes a thoughtful and elegant gift.

1. Consider the Material

The best cutlery is both durable and elegant, and material plays a key role.

Stainless Steel (18/10): The gold standard in cutlery. The '18' refers to 18% chromium for rust resistance, and the '10' to 10% nickel for a polished shine. It’s ideal for everyday use and formal occasions.

18/0 Stainless Steel: Less shiny and more budget-friendly, but still durable – a good pick for starter sets or secondary homes.

Silver-Plated or Sterling Silver: Traditional and luxurious, silver cutlery is perfect for special gifts but requires more upkeep to prevent tarnishing.

Titanium-Coated or Coloured Steel: Modern and stylish, available in matte black, gold, rose gold or rainbow hues – great for trend-led households.

2. Think About Style and Design

Cutlery sets come in a range of styles, so consider how they’ll complement your kitchen or dining area:

Classic: Rounded handles and a timeless finish – perfect for traditional or country-style homes.

Modern: Sleek lines, matte finishes, or bold colourways suit contemporary settings.

Vintage/Art Deco: Ornate patterns or antique finishes offer charm and character – ideal for statement pieces or period homes.

When gifting, choose styles that suit the couple’s or recipient’s lifestyle – do they love understated minimalism or lean towards decorative flair?

3. Check the Set Size

Cutlery sets typically come in:

16-piece (for 4 people – basic dinner forks, knives, dessert spoons, and teaspoons)

24-piece (for 6 people)

32 or 48-piece (larger sets, often with extras like dessert forks or soup spoons)

Serving sets may include salad servers, butter knives, or cake servers, great as add-ons or premium gifts.

If you're buying for a wedding gift or a couple starting out, opt for at least a 24-piece set to cover entertaining as well as daily use.

4. Choose a Gift-Worthy Presentation

For weddings or housewarmings, presentation matters:

Look for sets in gift boxes or keepsake tins.

Some brands offer engraving options – initials or a date add a personal touch.

Pair with other dining items like placemats, serving utensils, or a cookbook to make a complete themed gift.

5. Check for Dishwasher-Safe Convenience

Not all cutlery is created equal when it comes to the dishwasher. While most stainless steel is dishwasher safe, silver-plated and coloured finishes may require hand-washing to preserve their look. Check the care instructions if low-maintenance is a priority.

6. Shop Smart – Trusted Brands and Retailers

Some trusted UK brands and retailers to explore:

Robert Welch – Known for elegant British design and quality. https://www.robertwelch.com

Arthur Price – Long-standing heritage and luxury cutlery. https://www.arthurprice.com

Viners – A popular and affordable British brand. https://www.viners.co.uk

John Lewis https://www.johnlewis.com

Lakeland https://www.lakeland.co.uk

 and ProCook https://www.procook.co.uk – 

The above retailers offer great selections for all budgets and styles.

Whether you're refreshing your own tableware or shopping for someone else's new beginning, the right cutlery set adds both beauty and function to any home. A good set lasts for years, complements any meal, and adds a touch of luxury to even the simplest dinner.

If you are buying cutlery for someone with, for example, rheumatoid arthritis or other medical conditions that result in limited use of hands and fingers you might need to look at suppliers of specialist cutlery such as Care Co https://www.careco.co.uk/living-aids/kitchen-aids/cutlery Mobility Smart https://www.mobilitysmart.co.uk/daily-living-aids/eating-aids/disabled-cutlery.html

Choose well, and your cutlery won’t just serve – it will shine.

Dinglewood Vineyard's Night Owl. Another Wonderful Shropshire Export

(c) Image courtesy Dinglewood Vineyard

Nestling within the rolling Shropshire hills of Corvedale is the ancient village of Stanton, which is home to the Dinglewood Vineyard, a small yet distinctive family-run estate devoted to producing limited‑edition wines with genuine character. 

Among its Owl-themed collection, Night Owl red has quickly become a firm favourite. It's an elegant, fruit-forward wine with depth, charm, and just the right hint of midnight mystery.

And genuinely a firm favourite of my wife and I. Even though I'm not much of a wine connoisseur, to be perfectly honest. There's something about Night Owl that sets it above other English red wines. (You'll have to buy a bottle or two to see what I mean.)

Dinglewood Vineyard, located in Stanton, Shropshire, is a small, family-run vineyard where passion and craft meet the rolling green countryside of England. They focus on producing boutique small-batch wines that really showcase their local terroir and their dedication to quality.

Dinglewood is a modest but vibrant vineyard run by a family team who take great pride in crafting wines that have real personality. 

Their vines benefit from a south-facing site and enjoys a microclimate that lends itself remarkably well to cool-climate grape varieties. Every vintage is handled with careful attention to detail, from hand-harvesting to small-scale fermentation.

The Owl Series: Embracing the Night

One of the standout labels is their Owl Collection, which includes Night Owl, a velvety red with a midnight-blue label graced by an elegant owl in flight. Other whimsical offerings include Shy Owl, Ghost Owl and seasonal gift sets like their Valentine's Box.

Night Owl Red Wine

Price: Around £18 per bottle, aligning with their other Owl wines like Ghost Owl and Shy Owl. 

Profile: Rich, fruit-forward and medium-bodied, this red wine is smooth on the palate, with ripe dark berry aromas, subtle spice, and fine tannins.

Pairings: Excellent alongside hearty dishes including grilled lamb, mushroom risotto, charcuterie boards or mature cheddar. Its silky finish makes it equally suited to cosy evenings by the fire or relaxed dinners with friends.

The Owl label is more than just a branding exercise. Night Owl captures the essence of those peaceful, contemplative late-night moments, offering a wine that’s both approachable and expressive. 

It's ideal for serving with a dinner with friends and family, or for contemplatively sipping in the conservatory or on the patio on a sultry summer's eve. 

Or sipping in the conservatory or on the patio wrapped up against the cold night air when there's a nip of frost about later in the year? Who knows? Maybe you'll see or hear an elusive night owl in flight? 

Why Night Owl Stands Out

Distinctive branding: The owl motif sets the label apart and hints at the wine’s character, observant, poised and a little mysterious. We first noticed it at a farmer's market in Shrewsbury, the county town of Shropshire. And after a taste each, my wife and I were hooked!

Local provenance: Crafted in the Shropshire countryside using homegrown fruit.

Value for money: At around £18, it delivers a satisfying complexity without breaking the bank.

Versatility: Works beautifully as a treat on its own, or paired with comfort foods, social gatherings or relaxed winding-down evenings.

Dinglewood Vineyard’s Night Owl red captures the essence of English craft wine: vibrant fruit, balanced structure and an inviting sense of place. 

If you’re exploring Shropshire’s burgeoning wine scene, you’d do well to raise a glass of Night Owl for its approachable elegance and thoughtful provenance.

Fancy suggestions on how best to serve or pair it, or maybe ideas for visiting local vineyards nearby? Just ask!

https://dinglewood-vineyard.sumupstore.com