It's funny how it never seems to be a gradual season change from Summer to Autumn, you just suddenly notice the leaves on the ground, feel the chill of the air and your internal body clock kicks in - telling you to eat comforting food and cosy up indoors. At Summerdown we love Autumn; the Estate is looking absolutely stunning and there's a pre-Christmas excitement and sense of anticipation in the air.
We thought we'd share some tips from the Summerdown team on getting ready for Autumn.........
Your home
As we start to spend more time inside and the days get shorter, Autumn is about creating warmth and cosiness in your home, somewhere inviting to come back to. It's time to turn on the heating, and turn the Aga back on - if you're lucky enough to own one. If you haven't got an open fire or woodburner, you can still add warmth through candle-light. Our newly formulated and award-winning
candle has a longer burn time and stronger throw.
Adding new throws and cushions also help - some of our favourites are from
Susie Watson
Image Susie Watson Designs
What's cooking?
Autumn's about comfort food; roasts, casseroles, soups and crumbles. Sir Michael's Grandson Jo Colman who has recently joined the family business enjoys cooking and shares some of his twists on Autumn favourites here.
First up, Nigel Slater's twist on Roast Chicken
- Spatchcock chicken with rocket cous cous
If you're looking for a soup with a bit of a kick and one with natural health benefits (just like our mint), try this
Turkey and turmeric broth
For Autumn entertaining, try Jo's favourite
Black garlic and lamb - it looks impressive and tastes divine. Don't forget to finish off your meal with our award winning
chocolates and teas. Peppermint team is a natural way to aid digestion.
And finally, for a crumble that's worthy of a place on Masterchef, you can't beat
Raymond Blanc's apple and blackberry version - he cooks the topping separately to get that extra crunch
Enjoying the outdoors
There's something about wrapping up and getting outside on sunny and chilly Autumn days, taking a bracing walk and feeling the crunch of leaves beneath your feet. Fed up of your usual walk? Why not visit The National Trust's
website for a list of UK-wide Autumn walks to lift your spirits. If none of them are close by, you can also just simply enter your postcode on their home page and it will provide you with local walks and places to visit. If you're looking for ways to keep the children occupied on a walk, log on to our Charity Partner
Plantlife and join the Great British Wildflower hunt. The children can hunt as they walk, and everyone's happy.
Bath-time (yours, not the kids!)
And when you're back home from that walk or day at work, Autumn nights give you the green light to relax in the bath. Find half an hour to yourself to fully unwind. Our Beauty Shortlist award-winning
bath soak is gentle enough not to dry your skin and the pure peppermint oil fragrance relaxes the mind naturally and de-stresses. Light a
candle at the same time for some real indulgence.
Image Susie Watson Designs
