Ever wondered how some women manage to remain fresh-faced during a gruelling exercise class, while the rest of us descend into a panting, sweaty mess? You are not alone – but the Queen of the ‘freshies’ must be Hannah Frankson. “When it comes to beauty products, I admit that I can easily get caught up in the noise of something new or the latest trend – but in the end, I always seem to find myself going back to the same products I know and love. I roll my eyes at myself as when it comes to skin, hair and make-up, as it’s usually better to keep it simple.”

Want to know what Hannah’s flawless formula is? Forget pricey wonder creams and 100-step regimes, as it turns out that this exercise queen can be thrifty, too. “I exercise indoors a lot and sweat a fair bit, so this changes the price point at which I buy products. I don’t want to wear an expensive cream or SPF if I know that two or three hours later, I’ll have to reapply. Saying that, I always keep a good cleanser and toner to hand at work, as sometimes I sweat wearing make-up and want to ensure it doesn’t sit on my skin.”

A good bra is non-negotiable

“A secure bra is a tool of my trade and the Lululemon Longline Energy Sports Bra (from £24) is my favourite all-rounder. It’s great when it comes to fitness, as I can lift, run and cycle in it. It’s also ideal when I want to do a yoga or pilates class, as it’s lovely and comfortable to move around in.”

Good hair needs good moisture

“No matter how many products I try, for the past 10 years, I have always gone back to Morroccanoil Intense Curl Cream (£29). It really helps to define my curls, keeps them hydrated without the frizz, and ensures my hair looks shiny and healthy.”

My mascara must stay put

“A colleague told me about Hourglass Cosmetics Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara (from £18), and now I understand why! It doesn’t move during a Peloton class – even the extremely sweaty ones – and is easy to apply and remove. It makes my lashes look darker and longer instantly, too.”

My lips are low-key

“I don’t stick to a colour, but Nars Powermatte High Intensity Lip Pencils (£26.50) are my go-to for teaching classes. They stay on perfectly but don’t leave my lips feeling dry, like lots of long-lasting lip colours do. I forget I’m wearing anything on my lips most times and I never need to touch up.” 

Take pleasure in the little moments

“For me, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil (£43) turns a regular shower after exercising into a moment of bliss. I love using the oil myself, but I also like to give as a gift because it turns a boring experience into a whole luxury spa moment, which I feel everyone deserves! It smells incredible, too.”

I’m faithful to my fragrance

“My long-term signature scent is Creed Aventus For Her (£275). I like to wear scents that are different from other people and this delivers on every level. It’s fresh and fruity but strong and long lasting – which is perfect to see me through the day”.

I keep skincare simple

“I’ve dabbled with lots of lotions and potions, but one product I have repeatedly bought is Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream (from £26). It’s hydrating and makes my skin look exactly how I want: dewy and really plump after every use. It’s a staple for me whatever the season.”

Hannah Frankson can be found on Instagram at @hannahfrankson and @thefunclubhf.

The post Look-good tips from Insta sensation and Peloton instructor Hannah Frankson appeared first on Checklists.

Sticky marmalade loaf cake

A homely and comforting addition to your afternoon cuppa, this moist and zingy sponge will satisfy the entire family.

Ingredients:                           
175g softened unsalted butter
150g light brown sugar
Three large eggs
225g self-raising flour
Zest of one orange
Four tablespoons of La Vieja Fábrica Fine Cut Marmalade
One teaspoon of vanilla extract
Two to three tablespoons of milk (enough to make a batter consistency)
Pinch of salt

Glaze:
Two tablespoons of orange marmalade
One tablespoon of water

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan) and line a 2lb loaf tin with greaseproof paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour if the mixture begins to curdle.
4. Stir in the orange zest, vanilla and marmalade.
5. Fold through the flour and salt, adding a splash of milk to loosen if needed – the batter should be smooth and drop from the spoon.
6. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
7. While the cake is still warm, heat the marmalade and water together until loosened, then brush over the top for a sticky glaze.
8. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Marmalade chicken kebabs

Perfect for BBQs or prepared the night before as a quick mid-week dinner, these marmalade-infused kebabs bring a touch of sunshine to mealtimes.

Ingredients:
500g chicken thighs
50g-75g St Clements Marmalade
One tablespoon sesame oil
Two tablespoons of soy sauce
One tablespoon of mustard

Method:

1. Slice each of the chicken thighs into six pieces. Place in a bowl with all the marinating ingredients and leave to sit for at least an hour in the fridge or overnight.
2. Take the chicken out of the marinade and place on a tray. Put your grill on a medium-high heat and cook for five to seven minutes until the chicken pieces start to slightly catch and char. 
3. Turn the pieces and repeat for another five minutes until completely cooked through.
4. Remove from the heat and leave to rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve with rice noodles, carrot ribbons, and lettuce cups, or a side of your choice.

Marmalade glazed sausage rolls

Golden puff pastry wrapped around juicy sausage meat and glazed with a sweet and tangy hint of marmalade for mouthwatering balance of savoury and citrus, they can also be made vegan using plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients:
Eight sausages of your choice
One small red onion, finely chopped
One garlic clove, minced
One teaspoon of smoked paprika
Half a teaspoon of ground cumin or allspice (optional)
One and a half tablespoons of No Peel marmalade
One tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or sage
Salt and pepper, to taste
One sheet of vegan or standard puff pastry (ready rolled)
Your choice of milk, for brushing
Optional: sesame seeds or nigella seeds for topping

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Line a tray with baking paper.
2. In a small pan, sauté red onion and garlic until softened (about five minutes). Add the paprika and optional spice, stir for another minute, then remove from heat.
3. In a bowl, mash the sausages with a fork. Add the onion mixture, marmalade, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Unroll the puff pastry and cut into two–three long strips, brushing lightly with marmalade (depending on size preference).
5. Spoon the filling in a log shape down the centre of each strip. Fold over and seal the edge with a fork. Slice into rolls.
6. Brush with milk and sprinkle with seeds if using.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Marmalade bread and butter pudding

A cosy twist on a British classic, layers of buttery brioche are spread with marmalade and baked until golden and custardy. Comforting, citrusy, and just the right side of indulgent.

Ingredients:
Eight slices of slightly stale white bread (brioche, challah, or sandwich loaf all work)
75g unsalted butter, softened
100g thick cut marmalade (plus one or two tablespoons extra for glazing)
Four large eggs
300ml whole milk
300ml double cream
75g caster sugar
One teaspoon of vanilla extract
Zest of one orange
Pinch of salt
Optional: handful of sultanas, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips

Method: 

1. Lightly butter each slice of bread and spread with a thin layer of marmalade. Cut into triangles or halves.
2. Arrange the slices in a greased medium baking dish, overlapping slightly. Scatter with dried fruit or chopped chocolate if using.
3. In a jug, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla, orange zest, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard evenly over the bread and gently press the slices down so they soak up the liquid. Leave to stand for 30 minutes (or cover and chill for up to four hours ahead).
5. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Place the baking dish in a roasting tin, pour in boiling water halfway up the sides, and bake for 35–40 minutes, until puffed and golden but still slightly wobbly in the centre.
6. Warm the extra marmalade in a small pan or microwave, then brush over the hot pudding for a glossy finish.
7. Serve warm with pouring cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
   

Marmalade-glazed cocktail sausages 

Sticky, glossy and made for sharing — these cocktail sausages are coated in a smooth orange marmalade glaze that clings beautifully and finishes shiny and irresistible.

Ingredients:
450g cocktail sausages
Four tablespoons of thin cut orange marmalade
Two tablespoons of soy sauce
One tablespoon of wholegrain mustard
One tablespoon of honey or light brown sugar
Freshly ground black pepper

Method: 

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).
2. Mix the marmalade, soy sauce, mustard, honey and black pepper until smooth.
3. Place the sausages in a shallow baking dish, pour over the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until golden and sticky.
5. Spoon over any extra glaze from the dish and serve warm.

Marmalade fizz

Bright, lightly sweet and beautifully refreshing, this sparkling citrus cocktail is finished with chilled Cava for an elegant aperitif.

Ingredients per cocktail:
One tablespoon of No Peel orange marmalade
30ml gin or vodka (optional)
10ml fresh lemon juice
Cava, to top up
Ice
Orange twist or slice, to garnish

Method: 

1. Add the marmalade and lemon juice to a glass and stir until smooth.
2. Pour in the gin or vodka if using and stir again.
3. Add ice, then top slowly with chilled Cava.
4. Give a gentle stir, garnish and serve immediately.

Recipes supplied by La Vieja Fábrica

The post Marmalade fan? It’s more than just for spreading on your toast appeared first on Checklists.

Dogstival

When? 30-31 May
Where? Burley Park, New Forest, Hampshire
What to expect: Beach resort vibes with palm trees, foam parties, paddling pools, DJs and 100-piece Rock Choir. There’s have-a-go activities such as flyball jumps, weaving through the agility arenas or tackling scurries sniffing out treats or toys. There’s also a Barkour adventure playground for dogs of all sizes, three swimming pools, and scent training. Plus the UK’s only dog cookery school. Need more? Grab a delicious ‘puptail’ or head to one of the selection of street food stalls available.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? £10 for children and £18 for adults

Woofstock

When? 12-14 June
Where? Powderham Castle, near Exeter
What to expect: This event has been hailed as ‘Glastonbury for dogs and their humans’ – an impressive statement if we say so at least. A gathering of canines and their companions, there will be live music in the evenings, along with action-packed days crammed with dog shows, speakers, agility, flyball and police dog displays. Don’t forget to let them sniff out the ‘Pawcasso’ tent and have a mooch around the tempting artisan market to feel suitably spoilt. 
Can you camp? Yes
What’s the cost? From £17.50

Barklove

When? 5 July
Where? SWG3 venue, Glasgow
What to expect: Following its debut last year, dogs big and small should love their day at Scotland’s most stylish fur-fest. Highlights include dog-friendly DJ sets and live dog art, plus a top-notch agility area. You can also enjoy chill out sessions and a range of workshops aimed to inspire and inform. Explore at canine pace, safe in the knowledge everything has been designed to thrill your favourite friend. And yes, two-legged visitors will be well catered for, too.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? £8.50 for children and £13.50 for adults

Dog Lovers Festival

When? 21-23 August
Where? Elvaston Castle, Derby
What to expect: The UK’s biggest dog-friendly tribute festival’s been voted by The Daily Telegraph as one of the top 10 dog events in the UK. There’s a Fun Dog Show running on both days, great for both competitors and spectators. You can also expect a scurry run, lure chasing, steeplechase, hide and seek, doggie dip, and tips from dog specialists. There’s stalls to buy pretty much everything they need, food and drink to enjoy, and some of the best tribute bands performing across the weekend.
Can you camp? Yes
What’s the cost? From £15

All About Dogs Show

When? 12-13 September
Where? Knebworth House, Knebworth Park, Stevenage
What to expect: There’s other locations to head to for the All About Dogs Shows (Suffolk, Berkshire, Essex, and Norfolk), but we’re heading to its Knebworth location – new for 2026. There’s shows and breed meet-ups, as well as fantastic arena displays and even. dog foam party. But that’s not all – added to the line-up are competitions, live music, and even a one-of-a-kind Canine Comedy Cinema. Just don’t forget your pupcorn.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? From £10 for children and £15 for adults, with family tickets £37

Dogfest

When? 3-4 October
Where? Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
What to expect: If you’re not close to Sussex, Cheshire or Yorkshire (where else the show is on) it’s here to head. Explore the grounds with your four-legged friend, then check out the selection of food and stalls. Added to that are Royal-themed dog shows, breed meet-ups, and interactive activities. Why not head to the Palace Lawn for games, and daily quizzes? And don’t forget to visit the Photo Booth for a free commemorative photo. All you’ve got to do is get your pup to strike a pose.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? From £10 for children and £24.50 for adults

The post Affordable dog-friendly festivals coming to a town near you appeared first on Checklists.

If your dermal filler appointments seem to be happening more frequently, you’re not alone. The UK dermal filler market, worth £500 million in 2024, continues to boom – yet the issue of longevity is being discussed in clinics across the country. Aesthetic doctors are hearing more and more: “It used to last a year… now it’s gone in six months.” 

So, what has changed? Is it the product itself, or perhaps part and parcel of the aging process? According to leading aesthetic doctors Dr Richard Devine and Dr Emma Goulding, longevity is influenced by far more than genes and the syringe itself.

Metabolism matters
The first factor that could be affecting the lifespan of your dermal filler is your metabolism. A recent report by Sport England revealed that today a record number of us are taking part in sport and physical activities, which means that as a nation, we are exercising and training harder than ever before. “All hyaluronic acid filler is gradually broken down by the body,” explains Dr Emma Goulding. “But the rate at which that happens varies hugely from person to person. Higher metabolic rates, intense exercise and overall lifestyle can absolutely influence how quickly the body processes filler.” In other words, the healthier and more active a person is, the faster their body may clear their filler.

The skinny jab effect
Another side effect of the spike is weight management medications, with doctors seeing changes in our facial structure. “Rapid weight loss can alter the scaffolding of the face,” says Dr Richard Devine. “When underlying fat reduces, filler can appear to dissipate faster – not necessarily because it’s gone, but because the surrounding support has changed.” It’s not always disappearance. Sometimes it’s redistribution and structural shift.

Refined new look
Technique could also be behind your dermal filler’s perceived prompt retreat. Recent trends have shifted away from the overfilled looks, and today ‘microdosing’, ‘baby filler’ or simply striving for an elevated but natural look reign supreme. “In general, practitioners are now placing smaller amounts with far more precision,” explains Dr Goulding. “Modern aesthetics is about refinement and balance rather than obvious augmentation. That can mean results look softer – and patients may perceive them as fading sooner.” Put simply, less overcorrection means less dramatic longevity.

A biological reality—rarely discussed regarding long-term filler use—also exists. Repeated filler treatments stimulate increased enzymatic activity in some individuals, which means the body breaks down hyaluronic acid more efficiently. “Filler doesn’t stop working,” explains Dr Devine. “But over time, the body responds differently. That’s why you should reassess the situation rather than simply repeating the same plan year after year.”

A turn toward collagen, not volume
Finally, a philosophical shift explains why filler feels different today. “We are moving away from chasing volume,” says Dr Goulding. “Patients today prioritise skin quality and long-term collagen support. Treatments that stimulate your own tissue often create results that feel more stable and natural over time.” Dr Devine agrees. “Doctors can improve the skin’s foundation through the strategic use of regenerative treatments. When you strengthen the framework, you rely less on repeat filler.”

So perhaps the conversation isn’t really about filler failing. It’s about expectations evolving. While longevity was once measured in months, it is now often measured in harmony, skin health and how well the face ages over time. And perhaps that’s not a downgrade – it is progress.

The post Why your dermal filler may not last like it used to appeared first on Checklists.

Iconic design: Crosley Voyager CR8017B Portable Turntable, £99.99

If you’re dabbling with vinyl for the first time or simply enjoying rediscovering the classic analogue sound, Crosley’s Voyager makes a great entry-level option. The fruit of 100 years of rich audio history, record collectors love this model thanks to its vintage-style aesthetic and clean, feels-more-expensive sound. Spin 33 1/3, 45 or 78 RPM records – or connect with your other devices through Bluetooth – and ride the sound waves of a musical icon.

On a budget: Mixx Revival 55 Vinyl Record Player, £79

Offering a listening experience at a pocket-friendly price, this nostalgic design offers Bluetooth input and output, plus three vinyl speeds with pitch-control, and an auto-stop feature. The chic suitcase-style, available in a wide array of colours, make it a hit with trendy teens, and whether you’re savouring a classic record or belting out a curated digital playlist, this budget buy is very much one to consider.

For an upgrade: Pro-Ject Debut Evo 2, £599

If you are at the stage where you want to dip your toes into high-end vinyl playback, this giant of the audio world makes a savvy investment. The original model, Debut PRO, has been prised by music lovers across the globe since its introduction back in the late 1990s, and this new arrival, Debut Evo 2, draws from the same refined industrial design, but benefits from a range of updated technology, from a new improved cartridge and platter to updated tonearm and stronger chassis.

For beginners: House of Marley Rise Up Bluetooth Turntable with Built-In Stereo Speakers, £179.99

For pop pickers looking for an easy gateway into the joy of vinyl, this popular model is just the ticket. With built-in speakers and the option of using Bluetooth, it comes ready to play straight out of the box and gives high quality sound. Combining sustainable materials with a clean, contemporary design, Rise Up is ideal for anyone looking to build an enviable vinyl collection, without forking out too much cash.

For serious audiophiles: Technics SL-1300 G, £2,799.99

The post You spin me: five record players for old-school listening appeared first on Checklists.

Merguez Meatballs

“These French-inspired meatballs are both quick and economical. They’re gently spiced, wonderfully fragrant, and also come together in minutes — perfect for busy evenings. Serve them with couscous, rice, a simple green salad, or even tossed through spaghetti for a bistro-style supper”. 
Serves 4. Prep time: 15 minutes; chilling time 60 minutes; cooking time 12 minutes.

Ingredients

• 500g lamb mince
• One onion
• Two large cloves of garlic
• One heaped tablespoon tomato paste
• Three teaspoons smoked paprika
• One teaspoon salt
• One teaspoon ground cumin
• Half teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Half teaspoon ground coriander
• Half teaspoon ground cayenne
• Zest of one lemon
• One to two tablespoons olive oil

Method
1 Peel and finely grate the onion and garlic into a large bowl. Next, add the lemon zest and all remaining ingredients. 

2 Using your hands, massage the spices into the mince. If you have the time, let the mince rest for one hour, which will give the spices time to infuse the meat. 

3 If refrigerated, remove from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking. Divide mince into 12 equal portions and then roll into balls.

4 Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the meatballs for several minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Serve immediately.

Get ahead! The seasoned mince can be prepared a day in advance. Alternatively, after the one-hour rest, roll the mixture into balls and then freeze. Place them on a tray to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid (this prevents them from sticking together).

Red velouté with herb butter baguettes

“This velouté is proof that the humblest cupboard staples — red lentils and tinned tomatoes — can be transformed into something silky, soothing and deeply satisfying. It’s nourishing, naturally economical, and comes together with very little fuss. Paired with herb butter baguettes, warm and fragrant from the oven, it feels far more luxurious than its ingredients suggest”. 
Serves 4. Prep time: 15 minutes; cooking time 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• Four onions, peeled and finely sliced
• Four tablespoons olive oil
• One heaped table spoon tomato puree
• 200g red lentils
• 1000ml good quality vegetable stock

For the herb butter baguettes:

• 250g butter (plant based if desired), very soft 
• Large handful of fresh parsley or 40g frozen parsley, defrosted
• One shallot
• Generous pinch of sea salt
• Four small baguettes or one large baguette 

Method

1 Fry the onions in the oil for about 10 minutes, until soft and starting to turn golden. Stir in the vegetable stock, lentils, and tomato puree. 

2 Simmer for 10 minutes or until the lentils are very soft, then blend until smooth. Pass through a sieve to make the soup extra smooth.

3 While the soup is cooking, make the herb butter baguettes. Preheat the oven to  180°C fan. Peel and finely chop the shallot. Finely chop the parsley (if using fresh) and then beat with the shallot, salt and the butter until it’s well combined. Use immediately or form into a block or sausage shape.

4 Next, every 2cm cut halfway through the baguette (not all the way through) to be able to put slices of the garlic herb butter in. Bake until the butter is melted and the baguette is golden.

Get ahead!
The soup can be made a couple of days in advance or be frozen for a month. Add some extra vegetable stock to get the desired consistency (the soup tends to thicken when chilled). The butter Can also be kept well sealed in the fridge for a week or frozen for a month.

Spring garden gratin with Kettle Chips crust

“This spring garden gratin is homage to those Parisian bistro classics that I adored during my time in the City of Light. The combination of tender spring vegetables in a pull-apart cheese sauce is casual French cooking at its best. It’s not too fussy and bursting with flavour. What makes this a truly special dish is the clever crust made from Kettle chips, arranged on top with vegetables peeping out like little garden plants. Bon appétit! 
Serves 4 as a side or starter. Prep time: 20 minutes; cooking time 10 minutes.

Ingredients

• 200g asparagus
• 75g fresh peas or sugarsnaps
• One large leek, washed thoroughly and finely sliced
• One clove of garlic
• 20g unsalted butter

For the cheese sauce:

• 25g unsalted butter
• 20g plain flour
• 250ml whole milk, warmed
• 100g Comté cheese, grated
• 750g Reblochon cheese, grated
• A sprig of fresh thyme
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the crust:

• 150g Kettle Chips Brie and Caramelised Onion flavour
• A bunch of chives

Method

1 Peel the garlic, cut it in half and then rub the cut half all over the insides of four ramekins.

2 Bring a pot of water to the boil with a generous pinch of salt. Remove the woody part of the asparagus and chop the stalk into 0.5cm rounds, leaving a 3cm long tip. Once the water comes to a boil, add the fresh peas or sugarsnaps and asparagus tips, boiling for two minutes then drain.

3 Add the butter to a pan and place on a medium heat. Once melted and bubbling add the sliced leeks and asparagus rounds. Cook until soft, stirring occasionally. 

4 For the cheese sauce, place a pot on medium heat. Add the butter and once melted, stir in the flour. Take off the heat and whisk in the milk gradually. Place back on the heat and continue to whisk, also making sure to scrape the edges and base of the pan so the sauce doesn’t burn. Once the sauce starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and whisk in the pepper, nutmeg and cheese. Stir in the leek mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if required.

5 Divide the cheesy vegetable mixture between ramekins and arrange the Kettle chips on top followed by the blanched asparagus tips, sugarsnaps and chives. Serve immediately.

Chicken paillard sandwich with brown butter crispy capers

“Using the French paillard technique, you gently pound the chicken breasts until thin, helping them cook in minutes while making the meat go further. The brown butter and crispy capers add a nutty, salty richness, balanced by a crunchy slaw and vibrant mango dressing. Serve with crusty while rolls and mayonnaise.”
Serves 4; preparation time 30 minutes; cooking time: 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• Two chicken breasts with skin (approx. 300g total)
• Two tablespoons olive oil
• 50g unsalted butter
• Four tablespoons capers
• Generous pinch of salt
• Pepper

For the slaw:

• 200g green cabbage, thinly sliced
• One small onion, peeled (approx. 40g)
• One tablespoon olive oil
• Pinch of salt

For the mango dressing:

• 250g mango flesh, roughly chopped
• One lime
• One tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• One tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Method

1 Prepare the slaw by thinly slicing the cabbage and the onion and then tossing in a tablespoon of olive oil and a generous pinch of salt.

2 Next, make the mango dressing by combining the chopped mango, lime juice, vinegar and olive oil in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3 Place each chicken breast between two sheets of cling film and using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it is about 1cm thick. Season both sides.

4 In a large frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for three to four minutes, skin side down, or until golden brown. Turn over and cook again for three to four minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Cut each chicken breast into two. 

5 Finally, make the brown butter using the same frying pan. Add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the capers. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns a deep golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about three to four minutes) and the capers have also crisped up.

6 Serve by spreading a spoon of mayonnaise onto the bun followed by the cabbage, chicken, mango dressing and bun top.

Recipes from Rachel Khoo’s weekly Substack newsletter Thank Me Later brings you weekly, feel-good recipes. www.rachelkhoo.substack.com

The post Rachel Khoo’s thrifty-but-delicious dinners appeared first on Checklists.

Swap screens for a stroll

This may take persuasion, but getting out in nature with the family is a great way to pass on healthy habits and improve mental health. You can find lots of beautiful family-friendly trails on The National Trust website, with many being suitable for pushchairs and offering play areas or woodland for den building along the way. Use a step-counting app to keep tech-head teens satisfied too!

Join the hunt

If your kids are mad for treasure hunts, nudge them outdoors by joining the biggest hunt of them all — geocaching. Unfamiliar with the craze? A ‘geocache’ is a small waterproof container people hide which contains a logbook to sign and small trinkets to swap. There are over 189,000 hidden across the UK, and you can get involved by creating a free account on the geocaching website. Ready, steady, geo.

See a show for free

Sky-high prices for concerts, theatre, and sports events mean there are often not enough bums to fill seats. But here’s a tip: anyone receiving cost-of-living support or working as a teacher, volunteer, NHS or charity worker can actually bag complimentary tickets to some of the UK’s biggest events by simply registering at Tickets For Good. The entertainment world will be your oyster.

Visit the past

Britain boasts some of the finest museums in the world, so if you fancy exploring the past with your brood, you will be spoilt for choice. Most of the grand dames, including the British Museum and Natural History Museum, are free to enter and offer hands-on activities to keep kids engaged. Take a picnic to swerve the pricey cafe costs too.

Check out some street art

If you have a Banksy in the family, winter is a great time to grab a hot chocolate and take in some street art before the crowds descend. Places like Manchester’s Northern Quarter and Banksy’s hometown of Bedminster in Bristol are great postcodes for urban art critics to explore. You may even be able to find a free walking tour on websites such as FreeTour.com.

Visit a gallery

Prefer to appreciate your art in warmer surroundings? Pack your sketchpad and head to an art gallery near you. Iconic buildings like Tate Modern, the National Portrait Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art are all free to enter, allowing you to inspire little minds with famous paintings such as Van Gogh’s Sunflowers without opening your purse.

Dust off your bikes

If your wheels are in hibernation, it’s time to wake them up. Obviously cycling with younger children is best kept to safer traffic-free routes, but you will find plenty of doable options listed at Cycling UK, along with tips on everything from teaching your toddler to master a balance bike to more challenging routes for teenagers. Cycling shorts are strictly optional.

Get gardening

It doesn’t matter if you have a sprawling back garden or window box; little green fingers will love every opportunity to get dirty and prepare for spring. Make bird feeders by coating toilet paper rolls in peanut butter or lard and rolling them in bird seed; prune dormant shrubs, or plant hardy vegetable seeds on your windowsill to enjoy a longer growing season. Dobbies Garden Centres also run free monthly Little Seedling workshops for kids, so check them out.

Take in the view

From The Shard to The London Eye, views of the capital often come with a hefty fee — yet you can book free tickets to soak up the same iconic skyline at Sky Garden or Horizon 22, London’s highest free viewing platform. Prefer wilder panoramas? Why not stash some sarnies and take in some world-famous beauty spots such as Cheddar Gorge, Snowdonia and Dundle Door. If it rains, you will feel all the more Bear Grylls for it.

Hunt for fossils

Finally, remember that UK beaches are not just for sandcastles and rock pooling — they are also brilliant for fossil hunting! Make like Mary Anning and head to fossil spots like Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Whitby, the Isle of Wight, or the chalk cliffs of Sussex and Kent to see what you can discover. Shark teeth, ammonites and belemnites will be a proud inspiration for many show-and-tells to come.

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Do check in on the kids

Kids will happily while away an entire day if left to their own (ahem) devices. But overdoing screen time can lead to physical problems such as eye strain, neck pain, and sleep disruption, while potentially causing developmental delays in language, creativity, and social skills. For small children, the World Health Organisation recommends no screen time for kids under two and no more than one hour per day for two- to four-year-olds. Setting parental controls on your children’s devices will also help protect older kids from harmful content and encourage a gentle digital detox.

Don’t sleep with your phone

If you’ve ever left your phone charging on your bed at night, you are not alone. 74% of Brits charge devices in their bedrooms, say HR Fire and Safety, who warn that leaving gadgets with lithium-ion batteries charging for long periods can not only reduce your device’s lifespan, but it can also present a major fire hazard. Caused when the heat from your phone is trapped under flammable materials such as pillows and duvets, the London Fire Brigade reports an average of 24 fires each week resulting from overcharging. Save on scares by vowing to charge your phone on a hard, non-flammable surface instead — and always unplug when you’ve reached 100%.

Do stick to the 20-20-20 rule

The nation’s daily average for consuming screen-based media is now almost 7.5 hours, according to the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising, so it is no surprise that many of us complain of having sore peepers. The remedy? Optometrists recommend resetting your vision by taking a break from your screen every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Obviously keeping a timer and tape measures to hand is a little extreme, but simply looking away from your screen regularly to focus on something far away should do the trick.

Don’t shun software updates

Some devices seem to demand software updates more often than Madonna demands a new wardrobe — but remember these annoying notifications are there for good reason. Offering new features, fixes for viruses, and performance improvements, software updates also include new security features which will protect your data and solve known flaws that attackers can use to compromise your technology. The easiest way to stay up to date is to enable automatic updates on all your software and always install promptly when notified. The National Cyber Security Centre is also a great place to start for those needing a quick crash course on software how-tos.

Do look after your battery

Finally, if you suspect that your battery is draining too quickly, it may be time for a little check-up. Small changes like lowering your screen brightness and disabling push notifications can save oodles of energy, as can turning off Wi-Fi when it isn’t needed to stop your phone from constantly searching for a connection. Still at a loss? Try checking your daily usage summary in the battery section of your phone’s settings. You may discover that app you installed two years ago — and haven’t looked at since — is an energy vampire.

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As impressive women go, Julie Chung is right up there with the best of them. A practising eye surgeon who just happened to create the hair tool brand T3 as a side hustle, we caught up about her drive, inspiration and the secret to good hair days.

You’ve been pushing the luxury hair market forward for over two decades. Were you always driven to succeed?

“If success means being mission-driven, then yes. I was raised by parents who instilled a deep responsibility to be of service to my community. That led me to medicine and becoming a glaucoma eye surgeon. At the same time, I’ve always believed in the importance of how women feel in their own skin. To me, feeling confident and put together is part of whole-body wellness.”

Were you always interested in hair?

“I grew up in a Korean immigrant household where culture places a strong emphasis on appearance, which probably explains why it’s become such a global phenomenon. Trying to understand my hair was a constant project. As a teenager, I cycled through chemical treatments and Japanese straightening, often using tools that were harsh, ineffective, or frustrating. Looking back, hair felt less like self-expression and more like something to manage.”

The Featherweight StyleMax Hair Dryer was your first launch in 2004. How did the idea come about?

“Directly from my frustration! I have thick, coarse hair, and it took nearly an hour just to blow-dry and another hour to straighten. My partner Kent couldn’t understand why the tools I used worked so poorly. His parents were hairdressers, so he was familiar with how little technology and innovation existed. We realised there was a space: tools that actually worked, were easy to use, and felt effortless. We also saw an opportunity to design tools women would want to own – most looked like garage equipment at the time! The dryer was about solving problems: speed, performance, and design without compromise.”

You mentioned your husband, and impressively, your business is still family-owned. How do you find working together?

“It’s both fun and challenging. When you work with your partner, you really must learn where to draw boundaries. We’re very intentional about when work conversations end, especially in the evenings and during family time. That said, there’s something special about building something together. We get to be creative side by side.”

You left a full-time medical career to make your dream happen. Is risk essential to success?

“I still practise one day a week. One of the most helpful perspectives I’ve learnt is that a risk doesn’t have to be irreversible. There’s almost always a path forward. Very few decisions are as final as we think. As a physician, I took the Hippocratic Oath to do no harm, and that principle directly informs how we develop our hair tools. At T3, health is never secondary. We design for beautiful results and high performance, but always with a priority of the long-term health of hair.”

Why do you think hair is so important to our self-esteem?

“Whenever I speak in front of a room full of women, I like to ask: who here feels comfortable doing their own hair? Usually, very few hands go up. Hair is often perceived as difficult and frustrating, and because of that, when it’s done well, it genuinely lifts our spirits. A great blow-dry, even without make-up, often communicates confidence and intention. Hair has long been a battleground for many women. A good hair day feels like a small but meaningful victory.”

Is there one of your products you couldn’t live without?

“Without question, the AIRE 360. My hair tends to frizz, so how I dry it really matters. The AIRE 360 has eliminated my need for chemical straightening treatments and significantly reduced how many products I use.”

Where do you see the industry going?

“There will be a deeper focus on hair health and personalisation. There’s a growing recognition that differences go beyond hair texture – women also have different lifestyles, priorities, and definitions of what ‘good hair’ means. Tools will be designed not just for performance but with long-term hair health in mind. Your hair isn’t the problem; it’s often simply a matter of finding the right tool to support what’s already there.”

The post Interview: T3 hair tools co-founder Julie Chung appeared first on Checklists.

Never dial and drive

“If you’ve ever sneaked a quick scroll at a red light, think again: while the law used to prohibit calling or texting while driving, since 2022 any handheld interactive use is illegal. This includes taking photos or videos, scrolling through a playlist or checking social media. It even includes using the phone as a sat-nav if held in your hand. If caught, you could be looking at a minimum of six penalty points and a £200 fine. And if you passed your test within the last two years, this single offence could result in your driving licence being revoked. Even momentary inattention due to phone use can cause a severe accident, so leave your phone alone or in a hands-free cradle while driving.”

Lawful surveillance

“A video doorbell or camera is great for protecting your property, but you gain responsibilities if it records into your neighbour’s garden or the public street. Simply pointing a camera at the street or at your neighbour’s property can violate data protection laws, so while purely domestic use is fine, recording outside your boundary triggers legal obligations. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) requires you to take precautions if your camera captures areas outside your property line, which means angling them to minimise intrusion, and displaying signs telling people they are being recorded. Footage can only be kept for a maximum of 31 days — and you must respond if a neighbour asks for copies. While the ICO often gives warnings for domestic cases, neighbours have a right to complain if your set up unreasonably intrudes on their privacy.”

Streaming sense

“Under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, every time a film or series is accessed without permission, a copyright infringement occurs. Downloading is the most straightforward infringement, but even seemingly transient streaming is a breach, as it creates temporary reproductions of the content in your device’s cache memory. Those that sell illegal Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) boxes on a commercial scale can result in up to 10 years in prison and unlimited fines, while civil cases against commercial infringers can result in the offender being required to pay damages and have injunctions taken out against them. Ultimately you don’t know who knows you’ve got a ‘dodgy’ device, so beware of the consequences and purchase your TV box or stick from reputable sources.”

Subscription traps 

“Companies make it all too easy to sign up for subscriptions online, only to force you to call, fill out complex forms, or navigate impossible menus to cancel them — but in April 2026, under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, companies must now make cancellation as simple as signing up. This means you should get clear information upfront about costs and renewal dates, with reminders before a free trial turns into a paid subscription with automatic renewals.”

Fake reviews

“Regulators are taking serious action to stop businesses from tricking consumers with manipulated reviews or paying to have negative reviews removed. Creating, hosting, or commissioning fake reviews is a criminal offence. Online shopping sites now face huge fines — up to 10% of global turnover — if they don’t implement reasonable systems to stop fake reviews, and if a business gives someone a product for free in exchange for a review, they must clearly disclose this publicly.”

Rebecca is co-founder of shizl, a platform which allows businesses to create, e-sign, share and store legal documents online. For more information visit skizl.com

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