Discover the highlights from this month's issue of olive magazine, including trusted recipes and expert advice. Plus, find out how to subscribe.
olive is brought to you by the same team as Good Food, Britain’s leading food media brand. All our recipes are developed and thoroughly tested by experts, so you know they’ll work every time. Our writers are food experts, so when we make a restaurant recommendation or review a destination or product, you can trust our opinion. Order direct to your door, download the issue or subscribe AND get your first 5 issues for just £5! Out now in all supermarkets and newsagents. Five reasons to buy our April issue What to cook now From an eye-catching pistachio and beetroot starter to wild garlic scones and vibrant blood orange crêpes suzette, discover the in-season recipes to cook this month. Crowd pleasers Our easy yet impressive dishes for Easter as sure to hit the mark, from a boozy lemon meringue trifle to a slow cooked, one-pot lamb with orzo. Why I love South African chef Ryan Cole shares 10 things he loves about the food and drink culture from the area, including international street food, the oldest wine region and local catch. Shelf love Find out how transform this month's umami storecupboard star into shredded mushroom tacos, glazed pork meatballs and a cheddar and chive loaf. Cook like a local Learn three classic dishes from Lebanon to make at home, from a spiced chicken shawarma with pickles and toum, grilled halloumi salad with watermelon and a baked tomato and sumac flatbread. Subscribe to our magazine Save money vs paying in the shops and subscribe to olive magazine today AND get your first 5 issues for just £5! As one of our magazine subscribers, you'll also enjoy these great benefits: Free delivery direct to your door, so you never miss an issue Bonus digital access to the olive guide to making sourdough Get £5 off every order at the olive shop Discounts on tickets to Good Food Shows Risk-free shopping: cancel your subscription at any time Order now *UK, Direct Debit offer only Order direct to your door, download the issue or subscribe. Out now in all supermarkets and newsagents.
Looking for wedding gifts for food lovers? Explore our pick of the best presents, from decadent hampers and elegant crockery to luxe kitchenware, all at different price points
Treat the happy couple in your life to a top-notch foodie gift. We have everything from luxury food gifts to essential kitchenware, along with personalised and fun food activities. There's plenty of choice when it comes to picking a wedding gift for keen foodies. To start, we've chosen our favourite edible foodie gifts for a special treat they can share on a romantic date night. We've selected a range of truffles, macarons, jams, spreads and bottles of booze. For a more luxurious option, see our stunning hampers or a handmade pasta subscription. Looking for a high-end kitchen gift? We've also picked out a range of essential kitchenware they'll get daily use out of, from kettles to coffee machines and cookware. Treat the couple to a homeware gift like a punch bowl or chip and dip that they can use when entertaining guests. Or they can decorate a new space with potted plants and pretty kitchenware. Browse through our list for inspiration and check out our other guides for the best gifts to buy for foodies, such as our best champagne gifts for the celebratory couple See more ideas with our best coffee gifts, chocolate gifts, baking gifts, housewarming gifts and tea gifts. Treat the couple to a boozy gift with our wine gifts, beer gifts, whisky gifts and gin gifts. We've also tested out the best online cake delivery services for all the special occasions in your life. Best wedding gift ideas Jump to: Edible wedding gifts Homeware wedding gifts Food experience wedding gifts Edible wedding gifts Knightsbridge hamper with champagne Available from Not on the High Street (£141.20) Treat the lucky couple to a luxury gift with this hamper filled to the brim with sweet and savoury treats. From olives and chutney to chocolates, cherry cake, coffee and red wine, this will be a gift that keeps on giving with plenty to unpack and enjoy – perfect for relaxing post-wedding. And of course, not forgetting a bottle of champagne to toast the new marriage. Available from: Not on the High Street (£141.20) Fortnum & Mason personalised sparkling tea & truffle gift box Available from Fortnum & Mason (£75) Fortnum’s luxurious pairing of their Royal Blend truffles and sparkling tea will please alcohol-conscious friends and teetotallers alike, with the option to customise the bottle label for a personal touch. Truffles are malty and honey-sweet, while the non-alcoholic sparkling tea has light, tropical notes. Available from: Fortnum & Mason (£75) Baked By Steph letterbox cookies Available from Not on the High Street (£24.45) This sweet letterbox cookie delivery works just as well as an engagement or post-wedding gift. The fun selection of ring and champagne cookies includes a heart cookie that can be personalised with the couple's names. Available from: Not on the High Street (£24.45) Pasta Evangelists pasta subscription Available from Pasta Evangelists (from £20) This is a great gift for a couple who loves authentic Italian food and cooking together. A Pasta Evangelist subscription sends out boxes of fresh, handmade pasta straight to your door for cooking, so you can enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home. Available from: Pasta Evangelists (from £20) Craft Gin Club personalised gin Available from Craft Gin Club (from £33) Nothing says congratulations like a personalised gift. Simply give the gin a name and tagline, then choose a total of five botanicals from a range of spices, florals, herbs, fruits, teas or cocoa. If you want to make the gift extra special, you can add gold or silver flakes, or have the bottle gift wrapped. Available from: Craft Gin Club (from £33) Ladurée 12 macarons gift box Available from Ladurée (£42) Nothing says romance like a box of gourmet macarons – choose from a range of elegant flavours including rose cardamom, orange blossom and raspberry ginger. Available from: Ladurée (£42) Tiptree jams & marmalade tasting selection box Available from Selfridges (£20.99), Amazon (£19.84), Fenwick (£21.50) This Tiptree selection is a great gift for those who love their condiments and enjoy a nice breakfast. Flavours include apricot with armagnac, morello cherry and raspberry with cassis. Available from: Selfridges (£20.99) Amazon (£19.84) Fenwick (£21.50) Cutter & Squidge afternoon tea at home Available from Cutter & Squidge (from £29.90) Renowned for its beautiful array of cakes and bakes, Cutter & Squidge's afternoon tea at home does not disappoint. This high quality yet affordable offering for two is available throughout the UK, and for just under £30 you can enjoy a classic combination of buttery scones with Rodda's clotted cream, Cutter & Squidge's strawberry jam and the brand's own loose-leaf English breakfast tea, plus brownies and lemon drizzle cakes. Browse our full reviews of the best afternoon tea deliveries for more inspiration. Available from: Cutter & Squidge (from £29.90) Homeware wedding gifts The Always Pan 2.0 Available from Our Place (£125) The pan taking Instagram by storm lives up to the hype. Made from responsible materials in ethical factories, this pan has an unbeatable non-stick coating and is thoughtfully designed to be multi-use – fry, steam or boil in one. Choose from a variety of colours, from pale lilac to fiery red. Available from: Our Place (£125) undefined Ninja Foodi AF300UK dual zone air fryer Available from Amazon (£137.65), John Lewis (£138), Argos (£149.99) This multi-functional air fryer is a brilliant gift for a busy married couple who are short on time but love good food – this model claims to be up to 75% faster than fan ovens, and uses far less fat than traditional frying methods. undefined That's Nice That personalised picnic hamper Available from Not on the High Street (£59.95) This personalised gift is a practical gift the couple can keep forever – either as smart storage to display at home or a picnic hamper to fill and take out and about. It's made of sturdy wicker and can be personalised with initials on top. Available from: Not on the High Street (£59.95) Le Creuset Signature cast iron round casserole Latest Deals This luxury Le Creuset casserole is a lovely gift for newly wedded couples and makes for a great addition to the kitchen. It's a versatile piece of kit – use in the oven, on the hob, under the grill or even on the barbecue. For more ideas, visit our Le Creuset deals round-up. Latest Deals Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser Latest Deals Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or just a special treat, velvety smooth hot chocolate will always go down a treat. Whip up barista-grade hot chocolate in just over two minutes, with flavour packs ranging from vegan nutmilk to vanilla white chocolate and cafe latte. Latest Deals Mysoda carbonator Available from Finnish Design Shop (£54.30) This sparkling water maker is an eco-friendly gadget: it saves on plastic bottles, and the Finnish-designed machine is made from a biocomposite of nearly 100% renewable raw materials. Plus, it requires no electricity. Available from: Finnish Design Shop (£54.30) Cuisinart gelato & ice cream professional Available from Amazon (£199.99), Lakeland (£199.99) Treat the happy couple to a high-end ice cream maker so they recreate their favourite treats at home. This ice cream maker creates silky, creamy ice cream and gelato with the perfect texture. undefined KitchenAid Artisan 1.5-litre kettle Latest Deals For a wedding gift they’ll use every day, this classic KitchenAid kettle has adjustable temperature control, so they can get bespoke with each brew. If they have a KitchenAid mixer, pick the colour to match! Latest Deals Smeg milk frother Available from Amazon (£169.95) This top of the range milk frother is a stylish kitchen addition for anyone who loves the retro look. Perfect for making a frothy coffee but also voted our best milk frother for making super silky hot chocolates, it’s bound to become the new favourite kitchen gadget. undefined Dartington Crystal set of six wine glasses Available from Dartington Crystal (£60) This set of six white wine glasses makes a great wedding or housewarming gift that’s sure to get regular use. More of a pinot noir or cab sauv fan? Go for the slightly larger red wine glasses. Available from: Dartington Crystal (£60) Papier recipe journal Available from Papier (£29) In hardback with a beautiful green botanical design, this recipe journal comes with clear guides to add ingredients and write steps, plus there are little details to note down difficulty and portion. Another unique feature is the boxes for tips and tricks. The couple can write down family recipes to share together, creating traditions for years to come. Available from: Papier (£29) Emma Bridgewater half pint jug Latest Deals Perfect for a spring or summer wedding, this cheery dandelion jug from Emma Bridgewater is a colourful addition to an afternoon tea set. Or choose from a range of patterns including classic polka dot or stars. Latest Deals Food experience wedding gifts Best whisky experiences For a truly special gift, we’ve found the best whisky experiences from across the world. In the UK, you could try a whisky blending masterclass at Jameson’s Distillery in Dublin, find the perfect food and whisky pairing event in London or sail past classic Scottish distilleries on a whisky canoe cruise. For something further afield, we’ve found a whisky trek in Switzerland, the Arctic Whisky Festival in Norway or whisky trails across Tasmania. Best gin experiences Looking to buy a unique gift for gin lovers? Treat them to one of our favourite gin experiences, from boutique retreats beside remote Scottish distilleries to masterclasses in making your own gin. Read our guide here. Best chocolate experiences From sipping on single-origin dark hot chocolates to creating your own unique bar, we've rounded up the best chocolate experiences for chocolate lovers in the UK. The couple can take part in an in-depth chocolate tasting, create their own slabs of chocolate and forage for chocolate ingredients. Back-to-the-land foodie experiences From making your own cider at Kate Humble's Monmouthshire farm to learning how to run a smallholding and smoking your own mussels, treat the couple to the UK's very best back-to-the-land experiences. They can bake sourdough, learn more about farming or become fermenting experts. The UK's best gastro pubs with rooms Treat the couple to a relaxing stay at a UK gastro pub. They can curl up by the fire in the Lake District or tuck into a hearty roast in the Cotswolds then prolong the cosy vibes with a night in a great-value boutique room. Best UK vineyard stays For walks with verdant views, picnics amongst the vines and bottles of local brut, gift a trip to one of the UK’s ripening crop of vineyards, from Sussex to Cornwall and Wales. Additional words by Christina Geggus More reviews Best coffee gifts Best chocolate gifts Best baking gifts Best tea gifts Best wine gifts Best beer gifts Best whisky gifts Best gin gifts Best KitchenAid stand mixers Best champagne gifts Best BBQ gifts
Best waterproof picnic blankets UK for summer 2025 al fresco dining
Looking for picnic supplies? We've rounded up the best waterproof picnic blankets for al fresco dining including stylish wool, cotton and fleece options
Treat yourself to an alfresco feast this summer complete with a roomy picnic blanket to sit on. Looking for a new picnic blanket this summer? We've picked out the best waterproof versions that are as stylish as they are practical. Check out our top picnic blanket picks including large designs and tartan styles. There are a few things to consider when deciding on a picnic blanket, first of which is durability and waterproofing. We looked for designs with sturdy waterproof backing, protecting your picnic from the damp ground or sand on the beach. You'll also want to consider size so we've included a range of large blankets for the whole family and smaller options for couples and friends. All the picnic blankets are designed with portability in mind, as they roll up into a compact size complete with handles for carrying. Whether you're going for a hike, a family camping trip or having a beach day, there's a waterproof picnic blanket for every occasion. Complete your picnic kit with our best picnic accessories including dinner plates, tumblers, cool bags and picnic baskets. Try our best summer recipes including cocktails, barbecue ideas and fruity desserts. After, check out Celeste Wong's lowdown on how to make coffee while camping, so you can enjoy a barista-like drink anywhere you like. For more recipe inspiration, see our best picnic food ideas including sandwiches, wraps, pies and snacks on the go. Don't forget to pack a portable cocktail or a summer cordial with our best picnic drinks ideas. Next discover the best walks in the UK. Best waterproof picnic blankets at a glance Best check picnic blanket: La Redoute Aline 1-sided waterproof picnic blanket, £23.99 Best classic picnic blanket: National Trust Green Meadow Check picnic blanket, £45 Best on-trend picnic blanket: Oliver Bonas Pineapple Tile Blue Chequerboard picnic rug, £55 Best minimalist picnic blanket: Rains Carry picnic blanket, £69 Best patterned picnic blanket: H&M patterned picnic blanket, £19.99 Best classic waterproof picnic blanket: VonShef picnic blanket, £21.99 Best camping picnic blanket: Greenfield Collection waterproof picnic blanket, £24.99 Best British picnic blanket: The British Blanket Company waterproof picnic blanket, £150 Best knitted picnic blanket: Sophie Alport lobster picnic rug, £53 Best luxury picnic blanket: Heating & Plumbing wool waterproof picnic blanket, £155 Best waterproof picnic blankets to buy 2025 La Redoute Aline one-sided waterproof picnic blanket Available from La Redoute (£23.99) Best check picnic blanket Gingham is a huge trend this summer, and a classic when it comes to picnicware. This blanket from La Redoute features a navy blu- and-white gingham check and is fastened with red ties, which double as carry handles. The blanket is 100 per cent cotton, making it comfortable to sit on, and is lined with a polyester waterproof backing. Available from: La Redoute (£23.99) National Trust green meadow check picnic blanket Available from National Trust (£45) Best classic picnic blanket The National Trust might be best known for its stunning properties across the nation, but it also offers a wide range of products available that are made in the UK. This picnic blanket is made in colours reminiscent of a summer meadow, and has a waterproof backing to make sure you stay dry on uneven or wet ground. Available from: National Trust (£45) Oliver Bonas pineapple tile blue chequerboard picnic rug Available from Oliver Bonas (£55) Best on-trend picnic blanket We love Oliver Bonas for its colourful, trendy wares, and this picnic blanket is spot on. It's a woven blue chequerboard backdrop with a blue-and-white pineapple tile motif. The green carry handles add a pop of colour and make it easy to carry the rug to your chosen picnic spot. The rug features a tassel around the edge and a waterproof mat on one side to protect you from damp grass. Available from: Oliver Bonas (£55) Rains Carry picnic blanket Available from Rains (£69) Best minimalist picnic blanket Rains is well known for its waterproof technology, which it has used to make this waterproof picnic blanket. Instead of rolling up like many of the picnic blankets in this list, this model folds thanks to a system of webbing attached to the material which allows you to strap it up for easy storage or taking on the go. Available from: Rains (£69) H&M patterned picnic blanket Available from H&M (£19.99) Best patterned picnic blanket This brightly patterned picnic blanket has a soft, water-repellent backing and carry handle. It's available in a range of patterns, including sage green palm leaves, black-and-white sea creatures and blue tropical flowers and animals. Available from: H&M (£19.99) VonShef picnic blanket Latest Deals Best classic waterproof picnic blanket In need of extra room for your al fresco feast? Try this large picnic blanket from VonShef in a subtle herringbone pattern. It's a generous size at 180cm x 147cm, large enough to fit all your snacks and drinks on top. We love this spring colour but it also comes in an understated blue or a neutral beige. The detachable faux leather carrier is perfect for transportation and the waterproof PEVA backing is sure to keep your picnic spot dry. Latest Deals Greenfield Collection waterproof picnic blanket Available from Amazon (£24.99) Best camping picnic blanket With a classic design, this hard-wearing waterproof picnic blanket from Greenfield Collection will suit those looking for something more traditional. The upper side is made from soft polyester fleece complete with leather-effect PU handles. The underside is fully lined with durable PVC, ensuring it's resistant to moisture. Available from: Amazon (£24.99) undefined The British Blanket Company waterproof picnic blanket with straps Available from The British Blanket Company (£126) Best British picnic blanket Invest in a picnic blanket that's sure to last year after year, like this one from The British Blanket Company. It's made from 100% wool from small mills in the British Isles. It also features a durable waterproof canvas backing, ensuring you'll stay clean and dry all afternoon. The genuine leather handles can attach to a backpack for easy, on-the-go dining. We love the navy blue colour with white stripes but other options are available including pastel pink, spring green and even a rainbow stripe. Available from: The British Blanket Company (£126) Sophie Alport Lobster picnic rug Available from Sophie Allport (£48) Best knitted picnic blanket Add some character to your outdoor accessories with this lobster print picnic rug from Sophie Allport. The nautical-inspired design would be perfect for a sunny beach picnic or a walk along the coast. The knitted blanket is soft and comfortable to sit on, while the waterproof backing protects from light ground moisture. It comes with sturdy faux leather straps and fringe trim along the edging. Available from: Sophie Allport (£48) Heating & Plumbing Pure new wool waterproof picnic blanket Available from Heating & Plumbing (£135) Best luxury picnic blanket There's never been a better time to go all out with an impressive al fresco spread. This luxury blanket from Heating & Plumbing is the ideal option for an eye-catching picnic spot. We love the bright rainbow pattern and the soft 100% pure new wool. The polyester backing is a great touch and the leather handles come in yellow or red. You can complete your picnic stash with a deluxe portable champagne ice bucket for bubbly on the go. Available from: Heating & Plumbing (£135) More reviews The best picnic accessories Best summer wines to buy olive summer supermarket awards Best afternoon tea delivery Best vegan hampers Best chef's knives Best pepper grinders and mills Best cutlery sets Recipe ideas Easy picnic food ideas Best picnic drinks ideas Easy picnic desserts Best BBQ recipes Best summer recipes
Discover the top UK food festivals and Christmas markets for 2025. Mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas shopping galore
Looking for the best Christmas markets in 2025 across the UK? We've found the best German Christmas markets, Christmas fairs and festivals across the UK. For more festive inspiration, check out our 10 best London restaurants for festive get-togethers. Cooking up a festive meal yourself? See our ultimate collection of Christmas recipes for mains, sides, desserts and more. Best UK Christmas markets to visit 2025 Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market Winchester Cathedral Christmas market, 21 November – 22 December Known for its historic college and cathedral, Winchester and its surrounding villages are becoming something of a culinary hotbed. The cathedral grounds are transformed over the Christmas season, with the Winchester Cathedral Christmas market running from 21 November to 22 December. The cathedral provides the picturesque backdrop for the German-inspired market, with pretty wooden chalets serving mulled wine, street food and displaying crafts for Christmas presents. Where to stay: Just a short walk from the house Jane Austen once lived in is The Wykeham Arms, an apparent favourite of Colin Firth and Robert Plant. It’s an 18th century coaching inn with beautiful curved, Georgian bow doors, a cosy but bright bar that’s managed to escape modernisation (we loved the tankards hanging from the ceiling) and a separate dining room decorated with wonky framed photos, Persian rugs, gnarled oak chairs and more tankards. It’s easy to imagine Austen in here, scribbling away by one of the original fireplaces. There are rooms upstairs (including superior doubles with four-poster beds) and it’s a popular place for dinner – book in advance for prettily presented plates of ambitious seasonal food, including tempura oysters with wasabi ice cream; Hampshire ribeye steak; and chicken and pig’s trotter pie with mash and liquor. Doubles from £152, check rates and availability at booking.com or wykehamarmswinchester.co.uk Bath Christmas Market Bath Christmas market, 27 November – 14 December Shop the Bath Christmas market with more than 25o traders offering everything from baked goods to drinks and more. The market is nestled amongst the city's most famous sights – the spa, Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Don't miss the ice skating at Bath on Ice (open from 14th Nov until January 4th 2026) and 'Glow Golf' for mini golf lit up by fairy lights at night. Make it a festive break: Hotel Indigo is a honey-hued Georgian terrace, a stone’s throw from the markets and city festivities. Unwind after a day out with barrel-aged negronis in The Elder’s cosy rooms, decked with plush red leather stools and panelled walls painted a deep-sea green. Doubles from £107, check rates and availability at booking.com, expedia.co.uk or bath.hotelindigo.com Christmas by the River, London Bridge London Bridge City Christmas by the River, 13 November – 4 January Christmas by the River is perfect for iconic views of London. Featuring festive entertainment, shopping, a wide selection food and drink, plus support for local charities. Local vendors include Aroma – Steak and Chips serving Brazilian food, Burger & Fries providing gourmet street food, Chilli Cha Cha serving Punjabi fast food and Nicholas Pitta dishing up slow-cooked Greek souvlaki. There is also a pop-up winter bar at The Riverside Lodge serving warming mulled wine and other festive cocktails. Healeys Christmas Market Healeys Christmas Market, 8 November – 14 December In contrast to the bigger urban markets, Healeys Christmas Market is set on a working farm, in this case outside Perranporth in Cornwall. Weekends are dedicated to festive food and drink, expect a range of Cornish produce on offer including jams, juices and chutneys, all made on the farm. Stalls will showcase local crafts in the Old Bottlery restaurant, with choirs, carols and live music adding to the festive vibes. Make it a festive break: Stay a half hour drive away from Perranporth at The Scarlet in Mawgan Porth. Rooms, which are spread over five levels, come with their own outdoor space and open-plan bathrooms to ensure the connection with the stunning sea view is never broken. The goosebump-inducing outdoor pool is naturally filtered with reeds, while the indoor pool is heated by solar panels. Doubles from £275, check availability at scarlethotel.co.uk Manchester Christmas Market Manchester Christmas Market, 7 November – 22 December Spread across this dynamic city, Manchester’s Christmas Market is one of the country’s largest, with more than 200 stallholders set out between nine distinctive locations. Soak up the festive spirit as you wind through the city centre’s brimming streets, buying from a tempting choice of food and drink producers from both the local region and across Europe. Choose from traditional German bratwursts, great British hog roasts and an array of vegetarian options while fluffy Dutch mini pancakes and French profiteroles are sure to satisfy sweet cravings as you make your way around this wintry wonderland. Make it a festive break: When you’re finished, take a stroll to Manchester’s Northern Quarter and adjoining trendy Ancoats neighbourhood for cosy Victorian pubs, indie bars and top-quality restaurants. For dinner, Rudy’s is the local go-to for Neapolitan pizza and refreshing aperitivo with pals. Or if its drinks you’re after, Beermoth is jam-packed with local brews. The Cow Hollow Hotel, a converted textile warehouse, features a reception which doubles as a cocktail bar, where guests can sip on complimentary prosecco and snacks. Rooms come kitted out with beautiful marble fireplaces, super comfy beds and a round of milk and cookies delivered to your room each night. Doubles from £109 per night, check availability at booking.com York Christmas Festival York Christmas Market, 13 November – 21 December The streets of York will once again be turned into a festive playground this winter. Wooden chalets will house food producers selling everything from spiced apple chutney to pecan and amaretto brownies along with local crafts and artisan products, with over 80% of the businesses coming from Yorkshire, as a way to celebrate local producers. If you’re feeling chilly, cosy up by the fire inside Thor’s Tipi with a mulled wine and hot cocoa. Head to the Shambles Market food court for savoury galettes from the Krep Truck and arancini from Pizzaoli’. Make it a festive break: Before the day is over, take a well-earned pit stop at Betty’s Tea Rooms in St. Helen’s Square for cake and creamy hot chocolates. Or if it’s dinner you’re after, the markets are not far from Skosh, an independent restaurant serving Indian-inspired small plates and seasonal cocktails on one of York’s most historic streets. Within a few minutes from the market is Malmaison York, a boutique hotel on the corner of Rougier Street. Its impressive views over the famous cathedral from its rooftop bar marks a perfect close to a day of exploring. Doubles from £118, check availability at booking.com Canopy Christmas Market, London Canopy Christmas Market, 28 November – 22 December King’s Cross’ independent food, drink and crafts market is getting into the festive spirit with a series of special events. The market will trade daily (closed on Mondays) with over 50 independent makers, crafters and designers to find all your Christmas gifts, plus plenty of artisan produce, street food and mulled wine to keep you going. There will also be live music every Friday evening, a 60-foot Christmas tree in Granary Square and a chance to try out the winter sport of curling at Club Curling. Make it a festive break: After perusing the stalls mooch down to The Drop, an intimate wine bar in a friendly corner of Coal Drop’s Yard. Order a bottle of European wine and relax under the low-arched ceilings and soft lighting, with great cheeses and meats to snack on. If you’re after a low-key dinner without the queue, visit Happy Face Pizza for its festive spins on wood-fired pizza. Retro-chic hotel The Standard next to St Pancras station is the place for post-market unwinding. Book a King’s Terrace room and you’ll be rewarded with a large terrace complete with an outdoor bath overlooking the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel and its terracotta-coloured clock tower. Doubles from £199, check availability at booking.com More travel inspiration... 12 small towns across the UK every foodie should visit The UK's best pubs with rooms UK boutique hotels for food lovers 10 exciting UK city breaks for food lovers Best restaurants with rooms UK spa hotels for food lovers Best romantic UK hotels Best seaside staycations Best country hotels
olive magazine Effortless competition T&Cs
Share your effortless! ideas with us and WIN!
Each month on our effortless! feature we share three genius buys and clever tips to make entertaining a breeze. Tell us your own that you use at home for the chance to win a ProCook casserole set worth £279! How to enter Tell us your best effortless! idea that you use at home. Send a photo showing us what you do. Use #oliveeffortless! or email us on oliveweb@immediate.co.uk with the subject line “Effortless competition” We’ll feature the winner in a future issue! Win this stunning ProCook cast iron casserole set worth £279. A ProCook Cast Iron casserole dish is the perfect vessel for cooking casseroles, soups, stews and sauces, roasting various meat joints and even baking bread. Enamelled inside and out, each dish has a rich, glossy and premium finish, making it highly covetable cookware that looks great in any kitchen. ProCook’s Cast Iron casseroles boast exceptional non-stick qualities, even heat distribution, incredible performance on all hobs including induction and come with a 25-year guarantee. Terms and conditions The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Ltd. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram. The promotion is open to all residents of the UK, including the Channel Islands, aged 18 years or older (entrants under 18 must have parent/guardian’s permission) except the Promoter’s employees or contractors and anyone connected with the promotion or their direct family members. The closing date for each challenge is 23.59 on the final sale date of the month of that issue. For example, the March issue challenge will close on the 24 March 2022. The next challenge shall open for entries as soon as that issue goes on sale. Closing dates are as follows: 24 March (March issue close date), 21 April (April issue close date), 19 May (May issue close date), 16 June, (June issue close date), 14 July (July issue close date); 11 August (August issue); 8 September (September issue); 6 October (October issue); 27 October (November issue); 8 December (Xmas issue); 29 December (December issue). Entries must meet the following criteria: the dish in the photo must correspond to the current magazine cover recipe. Photos must closely match the style of the dish as best possible. The winning photo will be chosen by an independent judge. By entering the promotion, the participants agree: (a) to be bound by these terms and conditions; (b) that their surname and county of residence may be released if they win a prize; and (c) that should they win the promotion, their name and likeness may be used by the Promoter for pre-arranged promotional purposes. Entrants should enter by sharing their photos on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #oliveeffortless, or email oliveweb@immediate.co.uk with the subject line ‘Effortless competition'. Entries received after the closing date of the promotion will not be considered. Entrants must supply to Immediate Media Company Limited their full name, email address and daytime telephone number. The Promoter will use entrants’ personal details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (www.immediatemedia.co.uk/privacy-policy). These details are being collected and used by the Promoter, not by Instagram. Only one entry will be permitted per person, regardless of method of entry. Bulk entries made by third parties will not be permitted. The prize will be a ProCook cast iron casserole set as detailed in that month’s issue. The winning entrants will be the entry selected by the independent judge based on the judging criteria after the closing date. The Promoter’s decision as to the winner is final and no correspondence relating to the promotion will be entered into. The Promoter may share the details of the winners with the prize provider for the purposes of fulfilling/delivering the prizes. The winner will be notified within 30 days of the close of the promotion email or direct message on Instagram. If the winner cannot be contacted, or fails to respond within 28 days of such notification being sent, the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to a runner up, or to re-offer the prize in any future promotion. There is no cash alternative and the prize will not be transferable. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The surname and county of residence of the winners will be available upon request by sending an SAE to olive Effortless competition, Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, W6 7BT within two months of the closing date of the promotion. The Promoter will contact the winner[s] before releasing this information and provide the winners the opportunity to object or limit the amount of information shared. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winners arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. By entering this promotion you agree to release Instagram of any liability howsoever caused in respect of this promotion. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.
olive magazine ‘Cook the cover’ challenge T&Cs
Cook our cover recipe to WIN a prize from Le Creuset every month
Can you recreate this month’s gorgeous cover recipe? Send us a photo of your dish for the chance to WIN a Le Creuset roaster worth £119. Share a photo of your dish on #olivecookcover or email oliveweb@immediate.co.uk with the subject line ‘Cook the cover’. Want to sharpen up your photography skills? Gillian McNeill, olive’s art director, shares her top tips. Choose your angle. Show off the food’s most interesting features. While a salmon dish looks lovely from overhead, something else, like a burger, will look stronger from the side. Lighting. Bright and sunny? Moody and dark? Make sure your light source matches the mood. Daylight is great, but if you have to shoot indoors, consider using an out-of-shot table lamp. Props. Keep it simple – go for pale woods and neutral ceramics. Terms and conditions The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Ltd. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram. The promotion is open to all residents of the UK, including the Channel Islands, aged 18 years or older (entrants under 18 must have parent/guardian’s permission) except the Promoter’s employees or contractors and anyone connected with the promotion or their direct family members. The closing date for each challenge is 23.59 on the final sale date of the month of that issue. For example, the July issue challenge will close on the 15 July. The next challenge shall open for entries as soon as that issue goes on sale. Closing dates are as follows: 15 July (July issue close date); 12 August (August issue); 9 September (September issue); 7 October (October issue); 28 October (November issue); 2 December (Xmas issue); 30 December (December issue). Entries must meet the following criteria: the dish in the photo must correspond to the current magazine cover recipe. Photos must closely match the style of the dish as best possible. The winning photo will be chosen by an independent judge. The judging criteria is creativity, presentation and resemblance to the original. By entering the promotion, the participants agree: (a) to be bound by these terms and conditions; (b) that their surname and county of residence may be released if they win a prize; and (c) that should they win the promotion, their name and likeness may be used by the Promoter for pre-arranged promotional purposes. Entrants should enter by sharing their photos on Instagram using the hashtag #olivecookcover or email oliveweb@immediate.co.uk with the subject line ‘Cook the cover’. Entries received after the closing date of the promotion will not be considered. Entrants must supply to Immediate Media Company Limited their full name, email address and daytime telephone number. The Promoter will use entrants’ personal details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (www.immediatemedia.co.uk/privacy-policy). These details are being collected and used by the Promoter, not by Instagram. Only one entry will be permitted per person, regardless of method of entry. Bulk entries made by third parties will not be permitted. The prize will be a Le Creuset product worth £100, as detailed in that month’s issue. The winning entrants will be the entry selected by the independent judge based on the judging criteria after the closing date. The Promoter’s decision as to the winner is final and no correspondence relating to the promotion will be entered into. The Promoter may share the details of the winners with the prize provider for the purposes of fulfilling/delivering the prizes. The winner will be notified within 30 days of the close of the promotion email or direct message on Instagram. If the winner cannot be contacted, or fails to respond within 28 days of such notification being sent, the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to a runner up, or to re-offer the prize in any future promotion. There is no cash alternative and the prize will not be transferable. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The surname and county of residence of the winners will be available upon request by sending an SAE to olive Cook the Cover competition, Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, W6 7BT within two months of the closing date of the promotion. The Promoter will contact the winner[s] before releasing this information and provide the winners the opportunity to object or limit the amount of information shared. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winners arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. By entering this promotion you agree to release Instagram of any liability howsoever caused in respect of this promotion. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.
Treat yourself or a loved one to a festive vegan Advent calendar, from dairy-free milk chocolate to flavoured popcorn and fruit candy varieties
Looking for the best vegan Advent calendars? Try our ideas below, or check out our best alcohol Advent calendars and favourite Advent calendars for foodies. Looking for plant-based gifts? Check out our pick of the best vegan gifts. Following a plant-based diet doesn't mean you have to miss out on treats, so we've rounded up the best vegan Advent calendars to celebrate the festive season in style. Count down to Christmas with a traditional chocolate calendar filled with dark or milk chocolate, or discover fun alternatives featuring gourmet popcorn and fruity sweets. Best vegan Advent calendars Dark chocolate Advent calendar, £12.50, Hotel Chocolat Hotel Chocolat proves to be a reliable vegan option year after year. Dark chocolate fans will love the rich, silky 70% cocoa chocolate with its balanced sweetness. There's a festive message behind each door and the chocolate pieces are moulded into fun Christmas shapes. We also loved the sleek packaging with its silver metallic detailing. Buy now Vegan popcorn Advent calendar, £29.99, Joe & Seph's (Amazon) For an alternative to chocolate, try this gourmet popcorn Advent calendar from Joe & Seph's. Expect crispy, well-coated popcorn and must-try flavours, including toffee apple & cinnamon, orange chocolate and – our favourite – strawberry caramel. Buy now Dark chocolate Advent calendar, £9.99, Divine (Amazon) For a budget-friendly Advent calendar, look no further than this milk chocolate number from Divine. The beautiful red and gold packaging is equal parts festive and sleek, and the heart-shaped chocolates are made using 70% Fairtrade cocoa. We liked that each day contains an animal fact with eco-friendly tips on the back. Buy now Christmas Advent calendar tree, £12, Candy Kittens (Amazon) Assemble your own Christmas tree with this unique, vegan-friendly Advent calendar from Candy Kittens. The flat-pack kit arrives with everything you need to assemble, plus extra vegan candy to snack on along the way, with delicious fruity flavours including wild strawberry, sour watermelon, tropical mango and blueberry bliss. Buy now <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chocolate-Advent-Calendar-Lactose-Christmas/dp/B09J8WJ7XB/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=happi&qid=1635350793&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&smid=A2PT1TIN0BNU0L&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzRDNXNzZaUUZKOVEyJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjA3MzM3M1VaSFlQSEQ5T1g3USZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjk1MjY5Mk9SVEFFV0ZKQUFHTyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU%3D&tag=olivemag-21&ascsubtag=olivemagazine-114900" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Oat milk chocolate Advent calendar, £8.90, Happi (Amazon) Looking for a vegan Advent calendar that’s not dark chocolate? We’ve finally found a great milk chocolate alternative with this deliciously creamy oat milk chocolate. This ethically made Advent chocolate is free from dairy, gluten and soya, plus it's lower in sugar than most brands. The packaging is made with vegetable based inks and the tray is made from a minimum of 75% recycled plastic material and is 100% recyclable. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chocolate-Advent-Calendar-Lactose-Christmas/dp/B09J8WJ7XB/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=happi&qid=1635350793&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&smid=A2PT1TIN0BNU0L&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzRDNXNzZaUUZKOVEyJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjA3MzM3M1VaSFlQSEQ5T1g3USZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjk1MjY5Mk9SVEFFV0ZKQUFHTyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU%3D&tag=olivemag-21&ascsubtag=olivemagazine-114900" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Buy now Free from popcorn Advent calendar, £20, Popcorn Shed (Not on the High Street) Another delicious alternative to chocolate, this popcorn advent calendar is full of snacks to enjoy during the advent season. The calendar contains 24 mini bags of popcorn in a variety of unique flavours with a mix of sweet and savoury. Some of our favourites include salt & vinegar, white truffle and toffee. This fun Advent calendar is 100% vegan and gluten-free. Buy now Christmas tea Advent calendar, £29.99, Teapigs Fan favourite tea brand, Teapigs, have released a festive Advent calendar to count down to Christmas. We love that the calendar contains 23 different varieties of tea with something new to try every day. Pick from their classic flavours or try a unique blend to mix things up. The packaging is subtle with delicate wintery design, plus it's plastic free and recyclable. The tea bags are plastic-free too- made from corn starch and paper which is biodegradable. Check this one out for an eco-friendly tea lover. Buy now Vegan Advent selection box, £25, Chococo More in the style of a classic box of chocolates instead of a traditional calendar with doors, this is an option best for adults. We were impressed with the creative flavours and fillings of these handmade truffles, which include the likes of chilli-infused caramel, figs steeped in tawny port and agave nectar honeycomb. Buy now Advent calendar, £55, PLAYin CHOC Kids and grownups alike will love this fantastic offering from Playin Choc, which includes a whimsical 3D puzzle toy to assemble each day. The chocolate is perfectly smooth and creamy – plus it’s organic and free from gluten, nuts and soy. We also love that it’s completely plastic-free and the paper sleeve unwraps into play mat. Buy now Coffee Advent calendar, £35, Yawn Coffee addicts, rejoice! This calendar from Yawn features 24 speciality coffees from around the world in generously sized individual portions. We love that the calendar is available in ground beans for a cafetiere and whole beans. The coffee blends come from a variety of counties including Kenya, Costa Rica, Ethiopia and Columbia. The packaging is easy to manage as both the box and sachets are biodegradable. What better way to start the day than a hot cup of coffee during the festive season? Buy now Tea Advent calendar, £25, Offblak Searching for something a little edgier this year? Look no further than this tea Advent calendar from Offblak featuring bold colours and abstract designs. This set contains 24 black teas, green teas and herbal & fruit infusions with flavourings. One of our favourite tea bags is the nicely spicy flavour with notes of cinnamon and cranberry. We also enjoyed the just dessert flavour made with spearmint and chocolate. Keep in mind this calendar is on the larger side but it's another plastic-free design. Buy now