But if you’re planning a camping trip this year, planning and packing can be a bit daunting. There are so many distinct products that can make your trip easier. Instead of scouring the internet for answers, here’s a comprehensive list of the most important items to pack (without the obvious like phones, wallets, and keys).

1. Big water bottle

Drinking water is the most important thing to pack for camping. The size you choose to bring should be based on your itinerary and available space.

If you have a lot of free space, it’s best to bring extra water, even though it’s quite heavy. It will help for washing up; and when it comes to water, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

2. Emergency food

Whether you plan to stick to your diet, make full meals, or pack a few sandwiches, it’s paramount that you pack some emergency or long-life food in case your perishable food, well, perishes.

Granola-based snacks (preferably with fruit and nuts) are always a good option; with fibre, protein and carbohydrates to keep you going in an emergency. Other popular choices are freeze-dried foods or pre-made food packs that only require boiling water to eat.

3. First-aid kit

It doesn’t have to be a full kit, but a first-aid kit with a basic collection of necessities is absolutely crucial if anything were to go wrong during your trip.

4. Cookware

If you plan on eating any substantial meals while camping, a bit of basic cookware is important. A simple list of options include: one pan, one pot, one spatula or wooden spoon, some washing up liquid or wet wipes (which are dual-purpose), cutlery, plates/bowls, one chopping board, and one sharp knife (or use a pocketknife; also dual-purpose). Some companies offer easy-to-store options that include most or all of these items.

5. Toilet paper

Everybody has to go at some point. It’s much more enjoyable with toilet paper rather than the alternatives. In addition, toilet paper can be used to wipe messes up, or you could pack some kitchen roll if you have some free space.

6. Sleeping gear

While there are many ways to build a shelter, pillow, and bed out of trees and shrubs, it’s certainly easier, less time consuming, and more comfortable to bring these things from home.

The important pieces of sleeping gear are: a tent, sleeping bag, spare blanket, inflatable pillow, inflatable mattress or sleeping pad, and a tarp. With these essentials, you can be comfortable and well-rested for whatever adventures you have planned.

7. Extra layers

If the weather turns bad, it’s always good to have some extra layers in case you get wet or cold. A couple of extra pairs of socks and underwear; shirts and thermals; as well as beanies and gloves can save your life in an emergency. Merino wool is a trending material lately – for many reasons – but it can be expensive, so standard wool (or cotton) is always a good choice.

8. Lighters

What would a camping trip be without a nice campfire? If you plan to make a fire, make sure you have a couple of lighters or matches, a safe area to start it, and some water nearby to put it out.

To start a fire, it’s best to start with small pieces of wood or bark (especially birch) and newspaper, or fire sticks.

9. Pocketknife

A good pocketknife – particularly one with multiple tools – comes in handy in a multitude of situations: including cutting, cooking, repairing, and much more. Make sure the cutting edge of the blade is 7.62 cm or less to ensure legality.

10. String/Rope

There are almost unlimited uses for string or rope. Whether you’re out on an adventure and need to tie something to your bag, or simply need to tie up a tarp to stay dry, string or rope can save the day.

It’s best to learn a couple of simple knot-tying techniques as well, especially if you plan on using a tarp.

This list might not be completely exhaustive for all camping plans, but it covers the most important bits. Some other key items include: a portable power bank, icebox, head torch, whistle, compass, map, satellite phone, speaker, bug spray, suncream, towel, sunglasses, axe, and cap.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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If you’ve been craving some greenery, here are some basic steps to take to make sure the plant life in your home thrives.

Evaluate your space and time

You might have grand plans for your spaces, you might even have specific plants already picked out, but it will be all for naught unless you can fit it all in your space and make it look aesthetically pleasing in the end.

Therefore, the first thing you should do is evaluate the spaces you intend to incorporate plants into. Perhaps the most important factor to pay attention to is natural lighting. Plants need water and sunlight to thrive. If there isn’t enough sunlight, your plants will have trouble surviving.

Check which direction your windows face. If you have south-facing windows (and live in the northern hemisphere), you’re in luck! West-facing and east-facing windows are also good for many plants. North-facing windows don’t cut it for most greenery, so if you have only north-facing windows, you might have to resort to getting a grow light.

It’s not enough to just have south-facing windows. It’s also important to have an idea of the space you have near windows and how much time you have to tend to your little green friends. These factors should influence which plants you decide to purchase, as many plants require different things, and should be combined with others in ways that please the eye.

Maximise your space

Most people have limited space for plants. You simply can’t just buy every plant you see and hope to fit them all in your home while still leaving space to breathe. However, if you have evaluated your space effectively, you should be able to maximise it to create a lovely smorgasbord of greenery.

The first thing you should consider is what your goal is for each space. This encompasses colour, sizing, grouping, depth, and height, as well as considering your lighting limitations.

Then, consider whether you want plants to sit on the floor, on a bench or table, or perhaps even hang from the ceiling. Once you have an idea what you want to do with each space, consider grouping plants together that enjoy the same kinds of conditions. Also, figure out which kinds of plants will complement each other, and how you can set them up to accentuate their features and the dynamics of the room.

Choose the right plants

While you can find plants in a wide range of stores, there are certainly places to buy from that are better than others. The most important thing to look for when buying a plant is health, because your goal should always be to help it grow. In general, saturated and deep colour is a indicator of good health, as well as evidence of new growth, such as shoots or buds.

This is why ‘Mom and Pop’ nurseries are the best place to buy from. In general, they take amazing care of their plants and are knowledgeable about post-purchase care. They can also help you with advice on your general plan and help you tweak it to suit your needs.

There are also garden centres in most large hardware shops, however, the plants at these shops might not be as healthy, and you might have trouble finding advice about your purchases.

Lately, there has been a trend towards purchasing plants or seeds online. But with a certified minefield of online plant retailers cropping up over the last decade, it’s best to play it safe and choose to get your plants from reputable companies that grow their own. The benefit of ordering online is that you have a wider variety of options and can find some real rare stunners, which helps if you already know exactly what you’re looking for. But keep in mind that, in general, the plants you buy online will be smaller and could take a while to be delivered.

Think outside the pot

Who says you have to pot plants in plain ceramic or terracotta? There are so many fun and unique ways to display your little green friends these days, so let your imagination run wild!

If you need some inspiration, there are many tried and true options that you can bring home. Something as simple as a ceramic pot with a unique design can really make a display pop. Terrariums can also bring a nice focal point to an otherwise dull room. Hanging pots are certainly trendy lately, and they can help maximise your space if you’re limited. Bird cages fit this mould effectively as well. The options at your disposal are virtually endless; if it can hold soil, it can probably host a little greenery. Don’t forget air plants as well.

One of the more interesting trends gaining popularity lately are living walls. Living walls can be a bit tricky to get going, but once they are thriving, they’re some of the boldest and most immersive ways to display plants in your home. There are a number of ways to take them a step further, for example, you could surround yours with a picture frame.

Monitor progress and be flexible

It’s almost guaranteed that you will encounter some issues with certain plants in your collection, if not most. Whether bugs have started attacking the leaves, diseases are latching on, or the leaves are simply starting to brown, there are usually simple solutions to common problems – if you act quickly.

Even better than swift action is thinking proactively about plant health. There are many ways to prevent these issues from arising in the first place. Insecticides are regularly recommended as a preventative measure to reduce the incidence of unwanted pests. Wiping dust off of leaves regularly can help prevent mould from growing. Keeping plants at optimal moisture levels according to their needs can help keep them green and happy.

But if issues occur, and they will, do your best to be flexible with your goals. You cannot force growth or health, so be patient with your green buddies and try them in different spots or different pots if they seem unhappy – as well as different watering techniques and fertilisers.

Not everyone can have the greenest of thumbs, but there are many easy steps to follow to do your best to create thriving plant life. Enjoy building your own little indoor sanctuary!

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging, please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Are you ready to rock your heart out, or immerse yourself in art? If so, grab your hottest festival gear and get ready to book your next summer adventure at one of the most popular festivals at home or abroad.

Glastonbury Festival: James Genchi / Unsplash

Glastonbury in Somerset

Next Event: 22 to 26 June 2022

It’s official; Glastonbury is the most popular music festival in the United Kingdom. First held in 1970, Glastonbury welcomed over 200,000 revellers to its grounds in 2019. Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney, and Kendrick Lamar have been announced as this year’s headliners for the much-anticipated return of the festival after a few years of cancellation due to the pandemic.

Reading Festival in Reading

Next event: 26 to 28 August 2022

The second most popular festival this year is Reading. With its roots as a rock music festival back in the 70s, Reading is now one of the most-loved festivals in the country every year and offers music that covers a wide range of genres from hip hop to rock. A popular choice for young festival-goers looking to enjoy their first festival experience, Reading and its sister festival Leeds will be welcoming the Arctic Monkeys, Dave and Wolf Alice to their stages this year.

Parklife Festival in Manchester

Next event: 11 to 12 June 2022

Heading to Manchester now, Parklife is the third most popular festival this year. Tens of thousands of music fans gather in the fields of Heaton Park every year for one of the most loved events on Manchester’s cultural calendar. This year, attendees can expect to see the likes of 50 Cent, Tyler the Creator and Chase & Status.

Tomorrowland in Belgium

Next event: 15 July to 1 August 2022

Tomorrowland is the most popular festival in Europe this year. This Belgian festival has been on the go since 2005 and is one of the biggest electronic dance music festivals around. Fans of Tomorrowland are in luck, as 2022 marks the first year in which the festival will take place over three weekends, a one-off to make up for lost time over the past few years. The line-up includes Alesso, Martin Garrix and many more big names.

Awakenings Festival in the Netherlands

Next event: 29 to 31 July 2022

Awakenings is a series of festivals around the Netherlands and is the second most popular festival in Europe this year. If you’re a lover of techno, then this is the choice for you. Awakenings is the largest outdoor techno festival in the world. The 2022 festival will host nine areas, including outdoor stages and tents. This year will be the 25th anniversary celebrations, so expect the event to be bigger and better than ever.

Rolling Loud in Portugal

Next event: 6 to 8 July 2022

Heading to the beach of Praia da Rocha now to the third most popular festival of the year; Rolling Loud Portugal. Named the ‘world’s largest hip-hop festival’, Rolling Loud was first launched in Miami in 2016, and this year makes its European debut in the city of Portimão in Portugal. This is the festival for you if you fancy seeing J. Cole, A$AP Rocky and Future whilst in the sun and on the beach.

Visit the study page to view the complete Festival Index 2022 by Holidu.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post These are the most popular festivals in Europe to look forward to appeared first on Checklists.

Eyewear for cycling can protect the eyes from various weather conditions. For example, during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, sunglasses can shield your eyes from dust, insects, and the sun’s damaging rays. Meanwhile in the winter, sunglasses can provide a barrier to snow, rain, wind, and mud.

Speaking to Checklist, Sharon Copeland, an optician at Feel Good Contacts, explains that when buying a pair of shades for cycling, there are various things to look out for, including the lenses, frame, arms, and nose bridge.

1. Choosing between mirrored or polarised lenses

If you’re cycling in a sunny environment, mirrored lenses are a stylish and practical choice. However, a mirror lens isn’t suitable for dark and wet conditions.

I would recommend polarised lenses when cycling on the road as these provide the ultimate protection against glare and keep you safe when riding in various conditions. They help filter out reflections from bright, smooth surfaces allowing you to identify risks clearly.

Polarised lenses are not suitable if you are a mountain biker as there is usually very little glare out on the trail compared to road cycling. Depth perception can make it harder for you to spot an obstacle or bump.

2. Opting for the right lens colour for cycling

Amber and rose-tinted lenses increase visual acuity, providing the brightest field of vision and making them ideal for conditions with little sunlight. Their strength in colour contrast makes them a great choice for cycling on roads. These tints enable you to notice the smallest of details quickly and clearly.

When choosing coloured lenses for cycling, you should avoid choosing tints that are too dark as they will make it hard for you to see in shady areas, such as under trees, tunnels, and bridges.

The following lens colours are also great choices for cycling:

Grey tinted lenses – reduce glare and provide true colour perception; they are great for cycling all year round

Brown tinted lenses – enhance contrast in natural light and are great for low-light conditions

Yellow tinted lenses – these filter out blue light, allowing you to see contrast better. This makes them a great choice for cyclists who find themselves in low light conditions and overcast days

3. Does size matter?

Big frames are great for providing coverage and protection; however, some riders may find that they interfere with their peripheral vision.

4. Frame shape

If you find that big frames interfere with peripheral vision then you might want to consider wraparound sunglasses. These type of sunglasses offer the most coverage, protecting your eyes from sun, wind and debris, and they stay in place on the face better than other models. By shielding your eyes from the wind, they can also reduce tear evaporation and prevent dry eyes. Oakley and O’Neill are both popular brands for wrap sunglasses.

5. Prescription sunglasses

If you’re looking for prescription sunglasses, you can choose Transitions (photochromic lens), which darken when exposed to direct sunlight, or you could opt for Sun Tints, which feature a full, permanent dark tint. Both feature 100% UVA and UVB protection and are available in three colours (grey, brown and green).

6. Ensuring that the arms are the right fit

It’s important to carefully inspect the arms of sunglasses and glasses when choosing frames for cycling. Check that the arms and hinges are sturdy enough to keep your frames firmly in place, even over the roughest terrains.

7. Straight Temples

Also, you may want to consider frames with straight temples, as these are easier to take off when you have your helmet on.

8. Nose bridge checks

Sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and bridges are ideal for offering a more personalised fit. These features ensure that the sunglasses stay comfortable and in place whilst cycling.

9. Scratch resistance

It would be wise to choose a scratch-resistant, large lens when looking for cycling sunglasses.

10. Sun protection

Finally, you can best protect your eyes while cycling by choosing sunglasses which reduce glare and filter out 99 to 100% of UV rays.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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1. Mamma Mia! The Party

If you want to experience the glamour and ambience of Kalokairi and become part of one of the most world-renowned love stories of all time, head to The O2.

Mamma Mia! The Party takes place in a purpose-built Greek Taverna within The O2, London. With easy access from central London, your Greek paradise has never been so close. Come by boat, tube, or even cable car…all roads lead to Nikos Taverna.

A perfect gift for a fan who wants to immerse themselves in an ABBA-filled extravaganza.

Find out more at mammamiatheparty.co.uk

2. ABBA Voyage

With the release of ABBA’s first album in 40 years, the band are back touring with Voyage. But there’s a twist. Watch the star-studded ensemble perform as digital avatars accompanied by a 10-piece band.

The performance will showcase their new album and of course belt out all the classic songs that made them world-famous in their heyday. Experience ABBA like never before, frozen in time and perfect in performance.

Find out more at abbavoyage.com

3. ABBA Voyage LP

Still want to own part of the ABBA experience without the digital tour? Display a limited edition colored vinyl of the band’s latest album, Voyage.

Discover ABBA’s revival and relive their glory days with 10 brand-new tracks from the Swedish Europop group. Their latest LP has become the fastest-selling vinyl for the last century and shot to number one album in the UK at release.

Find out more at abbathemuseum.com

4. ABBA Boat Party and Cruise

On Fever’s ABBA Boat Cruise and Party, all Dancing Queens are invited to party on the Thames.

The boat’s resident DJ will be playing a combination of classic ABBA tracks to get you and fellow Super Troopers boogieing like it’s the 70s again.

All this retro fun takes place on London’s first purpose-built floating club, The Hurlingham, which boasts 360-degree views of the Thames banks from both floors, spacious dance floors, and amazing sound systems.

Find out more at feverup.com

5. Mamma Mia! The Musical

The hit musical is back and bigger than ever, with performances in London, Oslo and the Royal Caribbean. Throw yourself back into the story and revisit the Greek isle to blast out show tunes with a thousand other ABBA fanatics.

Find out more at mamma-mia.com

6. ABBA the Museum

This one is a bit further afield, but has to be on an ABBA fan’s bucket list. Visit the band’s official museum in Stockholm to discover the behind-the-scenes secrets and take a peek into the bandmembers’ lives past the showbiz.

Try on the band’s iconic outfits with help from their interactive virtual studio and even become the fifth member of the band with a digital performance with Björn, Benny, Frida and Agnetha.

Book a guided tour for the ultimate history lesson and visit their extensive collection of memorabilia; from gold records to original costumes.

Find out more at abbathemuseum.com

7. ABBA Gold LP

Vinyl has seen an unexpected mass revival in the last decade, and in case you’ve dabbled in record players recently, you’ll want to pick up this iconic piece of ABBA history.

The Gold LP features 19 of ABBA’s greatest hits from 1973 to 1981, remastered and re-released in 2014 from the original recordings.

Find out more at hmv.com

8. Official ABBA Fan Club subscription

To sate your bottomless appetite for ABBA content, why not consider a subscription to the band’s official international fan club?

Founded over 35 years ago and boasting personal support from the band members themselves, the International ABBA Fan Club offers its members access to difficult-to-acquire tickets such as ABBA the Museum’s special events and concerts.

Included in your subscription are quarterly magazines filled with all the latest ABBA news and throwbacks to days gone past. The club also offers rare promotional materials and merchandise, as well as access to the International ABBA Weekend in Roosendaal every April.

Find out more at abbafanclub.nl

9. ABBA merchandise

What better way to support your favourite band than by proclaiming your fandom to the world? A great gift choice for any ABBA fan, and a safe choice to please that Sweden-mad friend of yours.

From album cover T-shirts to Christmas tree ornaments, there’s something for every occasion at the ABBA shop.

Find out more at abbathemuseum.com

10. Karaoke nights

What better gift to an ABBA fan is there than taking them out for a night of sing-a-longs and cocktails?

Karaoke always promises an eventful evening, whether you’re a secret superstar vocalist or better heard from very far away. Singing ability isn’t a factor in your performance when you’re belting out ABBA’s top hits with the rest of the bar.

Find out more at designmynight.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top 10 gifts and experiences for the ABBA fan in your life appeared first on Checklists.

During the recent lockdowns we all found ourselves spending a lot more time at home. Essential key workers were still leaving the house to do their jobs keeping the UK running but the rest of us were mainly confined to our own spaces, with the occasional hour of exercise and fresh air outdoors.

So it’s no wonder that long-forgotten crafts became attractive again and hobbies we might never have had the time for suddenly seemed a possibility.

A poll of 2,000 adults found more than one third have taken the opportunity to pursue new interests in a bid to keep their minds and bodies active.

While going to the gym, swimming and travel became off limits for most, a return to more traditional pastimes such as gardening, cooking and baking was seen.

Supermarkets saw a shortage of flour and yeast at certain points as the quest for the perfect sourdough or banana bread began trending on social media.

The extra time not spent on the commute has also given us more time for walking, reading and exercising, with 81 per cent choosing some form of mindfulness to help distract them from worries caused by the pandemic, while three quarters of those asked were keen to involve more exercise in their day-to-day lives.

Other factors cited as impacting the way people chose to occupy their time included the level of skill needed, any costs involved and a desire for self-improvement.

Nearly a fifth of adults questioned say their new interest has helped increase their overall happiness, showing that for many, the pandemic has been an eye-opener in terms of lifestyle.

Sarah Dixon, of Hozelock, which commissioned the survey, said: “Many of us have had more time on our hands during the past 12 months, so it is only normal that we are filling this time trying out new hobbies and interests. With so much uncertainty, it is great to see that people are choosing activities which will improve their mental health and provide some structure to their days and weekends.”

Further down a list of 40 most popular new hobbies taken up by adults during lockdown, activities included martial arts, pottery, knitting, video gaming and doing jigsaws.

Another survey, commissioned by Serenata Flowers, looked solely at skills sought after by women. Top was learning a new language, with one in five citing it as a goal. That was closely followed by mastering a musical instrument or crafting. Dancing, video making and woodwork were also popular among respondents.

Breaking down the results geographically, website Love Crafts found that northerners and Scots from cities such as Newcastle and Edinburgh were keen to work on their DIY skills, while learning to code and programme were popular ambitions in Bristol. Meanwhile in the south, residents of Brighton and Southampton had their sights set on learning to play guitar.

Cross stitch, birdwatching and doing crosswords all featured in the top 40 also, as well as – perhaps unsurprisingly with pubs shut or exercising restrictions – brewing beer.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Here are some ideas to inspire and motivate you   

1. Hornby Hobbies Scalextric 

Scalextric offers something special for the motorheads in your life. For the younger budding racers there is My First and Micro Scalextric, a compact and simple click together track system with durable high-speed cars that have built-in magnets, so they hold onto the track. All are suitable for boys and girls three years and above. 

If racing isn’t your thing, there’s the Scalextric American Police chase set containing jumps, side swipes and a cross over, and two cars with lights and siren. The ideal chase, bash and crash set!

Then something for the wider family is the ARC World GT and 24hr Le Mans race sets. Both sets are compatible with ARC (App Race Control) system which allows you to create your own bespoke race format with a multitude of different race functions and conditions to form a competitive event in your household all via a smartphone, tablet or PC.

Find out more at scalextric.com

2. Babbel

Found anything useful at home lately? That mug you forgot about at the back of the cupboard? Pennies behind the sofa? How about an exciting new language and culture? 

With the language learning app Babbel, you get lessons crafted by a team of over 150 language experts. But you also get to uncover and enjoy a new culture every day. Because from food to phrases and dancing to dialects, language and culture are inseparable. 

Lessons are based on real life conversations to get you speaking ASAP and, before you know it, you’ll be using your new skills and knowledge. Maybe cooking a delicious new dish, like a regional speciality, whilst proudly showing your loved ones on the phone what you’ve learnt so far! 

Babbel’s experts also customise content for native English speakers. In-context grammar 
tips, ‘false friends’ lessons, and more offer a more tailored, relatable and effective language learning experience. 

Find out more at babbel.com

3. Puzzler 

What better way to liven up your day than with a puzzle from Puzzler, the UK’s number one puzzle magazine publisher.

Puzzles are perfect for banishing boredom or providing a bit of ‘me-time’ and this fantastic range of magazines caters for all ages and abilities. Plus, their puzzle magazines are great for sharing with friends and family at home or online.

However and wherever you like to puzzle, Puzzler has something here that’s perfect for you! Check out their range of magazines, arrange a subscription, browse their digital apps, and find other puzzle products, including books, games and printable puzzles. If you’re a Puzzler magazine reader – save yourself the price of a stamp by entering your competition solutions online.

Get into puzzling and enjoy that sense of achievement when you complete a crossword, crack a codeword or deduce who did what, when and how with a logic problem.  

Find out more at puzzler.com

4. Gibsons 

Piecing together a jigsaw puzzle is the perfect way to keep your mind active and your hands busy. Gibsons are an independent British, family business who have been entertaining generations for over 100 years and their high-quality jigsaws are made from the thickest board on the market using 100% recycled materials. 

Produced in the UK and Europe, Gibsons have hundreds of puzzle designs for you to choose from, such as nostalgic villages, scenes featuring iconic planes and trains, and cheeky kittens causing mischief! The puzzles are available in a variety of pieces counts including 40 pieces, 500 pieces and 1000 pieces…there is something for everyone!

‘Bringing people together’ underpins everything the company does, from encouraging people to play games, and creating a happy working culture, to supporting a local children’s charity and valuing the relationships with its suppliers and customers.

Find out more at gibsonsgames.co.uk 

5. Hobgoblin Music 

The UK has seen a big increase in online instrument sales this spring. Playing music is a great way to lift your mood, as is learning a new skill, and many people are taking to the internet to share music and song.

As a result, Hobgoblin have stocked up on the most popular beginner and upgrade instruments, and put together starter packs, all available online.

Hobgoblin offers you a unique range of unusual and exciting acoustic and folk instruments from all over the world at great prices. Every item has been chosen to give the best quality at each price level. So give them a call, buy online, or visit one of their music shops where their staff are friendly and well informed. You pay the same price whether you buy online or in their shops. Hobgoblin do trade-ins, part exchange, appraisals and buy instruments for cash.

Find out more at hobgoblin.com

6. Hobbycraft 

Calling all artists: Discover great value in a range of Hobbycraft offers, with products available across a huge range of categories. 

If you love craft, you’ll find no better place to discover ideas, inspiration and great value products. Hobbycraft’s vast range has been created to reflect your crafting needs, with thousands of customer favourites at fantastic low prices, making it easy to stock up on essential materials for your next projects.

Grow your crafting confidence and try out new craft techniques, with everything you need available at Hobbycraft. 

Whether you’re a budding beginner or a professional artist, Hobbycraft have got all the tools and materials you’ll need to create your next masterpiece. From Seawhite sketchbooks to Pebeo paints, brush sets, colouring pencils and more, it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up. 

Visit any of Hobbycraft’s 94 stores nationwide or shop online. 

Find out more at hobbycraft.co.uk

7. The Mystery Book Club

The Mystery Book Club loves discovering fantastic new books and sharing them with you.

Sign up now, and every month the team will send you a brilliant, beautifully gift-wrapped paperback in the post. It might be fiction; it might be non-fiction. It might be a thriller, or a saga, or the memoir of a glamorous Russian jewel thief. But it will definitely be a wonderful book that will be worthy of your time. That is a promise to you.

The Mystery Book Club only selects the very best in contemporary fiction and non-fiction, from award-winning, critically acclaimed authors.

A subscription to the Mystery Book Club also makes a great present, for the book lover in your life, and they provide a beautifully presented gift card free of charge.

The Mystery Book Club offers a range of great value subscriptions and gift cards, all with free postage and packing.

Find out more at themysterybookclub.co.uk

8. Arcade Depot 

Who remembers the 70s and 80s? Take back a bit of the past with a retro arcade machine, including all the classic games you remember. Pacman, Space Invaders and Donkey Kong just to name a few.

Arcade Depot’s UK-built machines are the perfect addition to an entertainment space, with a variety of styles, finishes and themes to choose from. With at least 60 games there is something for the whole family to enjoy, just plug it in and start playing.

Since 2008, Arcade Depot have been manufacturing their own retro arcade machines, refining their designs to offer the best looking, best performing and most practical machines available.

The quality of their arcades is renowned, and they have built a solid reputation based on the highest level of customer satisfaction. When it comes to retro arcade machines, Arcade Depot reckons to be the UK’s number one supplier.

Find out more at arcadedepot.co.uk

9. Bitcade 

We’ve all found ourselves with more time to spend at home at the moment, so why not indulge in some retro-gaming nostalgia with Bitcade’s custom arcade machines?

Bitcade is the UK’s largest provider of custom-built arcade machines and is the brainchild of Jack England, who started the business to feed his passion for the 70s and 80s inspired gaming experiences. 

Nothing says 80s arcade nostalgia like Street Fighter, and the 27-inch upright arcade cabinet is the perfect addition to any gamer’s life. The sleek design incorporates a 1080p brand new monitor and a superb 2.0 in-built sound system and allows you to play up to 2,992 classic games, giving you a totally immersive gaming experience for one or two players.

Alternatively, the compact Space Invaders Style Bartop takes up no floor space and features American-style joysticks and colourful light up buttons, ideal for one or two players.

Find out more at bitcade.co.uk

10. MSI

MSI are proud to bring you their personal gaming gift guide. Whether you’re after a gift for a casual gamer or a professional, they’ve got you covered – offering premium mechanical keyboards to provide speed, accuracy, and endurance, high-fidelity headsets, ultra-high DPI gaming mice, wireless gaming controller and lightning-fast surfaces to go with them. Looking for a hardware upgrade? MSI offers the latest in ground-breaking GeForce RTX 30 Series graphics card as well as powerful AMD 5000 series. The ultimate MSI gaming experience, wrapped up just for you. 

In the gaming gift guide, you could find reviews and recommendations from the best gaming and technology media, giving you a quick grasp of why it’s worth investing in high quality gaming peripherals. 

MSI’s recommendation: The Immerse GH61 gaming headset is your hi-res audio solution, featuring virtual 7.1 surround sound, Nahimic audio and a built-in ESS DAC and AMP. 

Find out more at msi.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post 10 ways to expand your hobby horizons and enjoy your spare time appeared first on Checklists.

Here are some places to start – whether you’re dipping in your toe or plunging right in.

1. BQ Watches

Are you guilty of holding onto a top-brand watch that you once loved but no longer wear? Don’t let your hidden treasures gather dust – turn them into cash instead with BQ Watches.

With over 30 years’ experience in the watch, retail and jewellery industries, BQ Watches are looking to add to their inventory of the finest luxury timepieces in the world.

The company is looking for popular Rolex models like the Datejust, Date, Day-Date, Submariner, GMT-Master, Explorer, Milgauss, Daytona and Yacht-Master.

While BQ Watches are specialists in pre-owned Rolexes, they also trade Breitling, Cartier, Hublot, Omega and other high-quality brands. BQ Watches don’t just buy watches – they provide a range of supplementary services including watch repairs, servicing, refurbishing and dial changes.

The dedicated team also supply and fit diamond dials and bezels at very competitive prices.

Find out more at:  bqwatches.com

2. Silverstone Auctions 

Automotive Auctions is a brand new, online-only auction platform – brought to you by the UK market-leading classic car auction house, the Silverstone Auctions Group. 

The platform offers seven-day auction cycles allowing for efficient selling with absolutely no seller’s fees. The dedicated team of experts behind Automotive Auctions are knowledgeable and experienced in the world of both classic and modern cars and therefore can provide a service for all types of vehicles – classic cars, supercars, modern cars, competition cars, hybrid and electric cars, motorcycles, motorhomes as well as automobilia and number plates. 

This platform is an additional route to market for the group, having already had huge success in the traditional world of auctions.

Over the years the company has been selected by a number of the UK’s official owners’ clubs to hold marque-dedicated sales, including the Ferrari Owners’ Club of Great Britain, the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club and Porsche Club GB.

Find out more:  automotiveauctions.co.uk

3. Pack & Send

For nearly 30 years PACK & SEND have been delivering far more than just a simple courier service; they are the UK’s largest network of packing and shipping specialists with huge experience of safely moving virtually anything to all parts of the globe. 

Their unique range of secure packing options make them particularly effective in handling fragile and valuable goods, including includes art, sculptures, glassware and ceramics, antiques and collectables, PCs, peripherals and data storage kits. They can also transport medical and laboratory equipment, vehicle parts and engineering machinery – or anything else that is susceptible to damage in transit. 

They understand the concerns of buyers and vendors when moving unique and valuable items and are so confident in the security of their shipping services that they offer a loss and damage warranty on anything that they have packed – regardless of its value.

Find out more: packsend.co.uk

4. Chiswick Auctions 

Chiswick Auctions is a West London auction house dedicated to offering clients a straightforward and friendly approach to buying and selling. They provide free and confidential valuations on antiques, paintings, jewellery, books, luxury accessories and more. 

Known particularly for their design and interiors sale, which caters to all lifestyle categories, Chiswick Auctions’ monthly sale has become a ‘must attend’ event among interior design enthusiasts and London collectors. 

Chiswick Auctions’ specialist sales are led by a world-class team of experts who enjoy a reputation of delivering exceptional results. Categories going under the hammer include fine, urban and world art, rare books, fine wines and designer handbags. 

Recent sale highlights include a 10.5-carat Burmese ruby which soared way past its pre-sale estimate to make £462,500 and a sketch by the early 19^th century landscape painter John Constable, entitled ‘A River Landscape’, which sold for £87,500. 

Find out more: chiswickauctions.co.uk

5. Pullman Editions 

Pullman Editions designs, commissions and publishes striking original posters which capture the enduring appeal of Art Deco. Their newly commissioned posters feature glamorous destinations around the world, ski resorts in the French and Swiss Alps, as well as the world’s greatest historic automobiles on the road and track. 

Executed by leading poster artists, each with their own unique ‘signature style’, their editions combine originality with the quintessential heritage and dramatic imagery of vintage posters. Available in strictly limited editions of 280, posters are printed using traditional techniques on the finest quality 100% cotton fine art paper. They are signed, hand-numbered and bear our embossed stamp of authenticity. Each poster is approximately 97 x 65 cms (38 x 26 inches) and is supplied unframed in a robust tube which can be shipped worldwide. Pullman Editions also offer a framing service for personal shoppers at their London gallery. 

Find out more: pullmaneditions.com

6. The Art Institute 

The Art Institute’s online art appreciation course is a comprehensive and flexible art history course delivered in a supportive learning atmosphere. The course will help students think critically and become art savvy. The focus is to develop a deep knowledge and to expand the student’s horizons to enjoy art with confidence either as a hobby or to support certain career options.

Course curator Hilary Kay, best known for her appearances on the BBC’s ‘Antiques Roadshow’ programme, has brought together 12 remarkable authors presenting the students with an engaging course to study at home, whenever it suits. Students can enrol every day of the year. 

A tutor will be allocated to the student upon enrolment, who will guide the student through each module of the course, while giving constructive feedback on all submitted work. Benefit from 24 hours support for all levels.

Find out more:  theartinstitute.co.uk

7. Alfies Antiques

Discover a treasure trove of collectables from Art Deco, silver, furniture, jewellery, paintings, glass and vintage clothing. Whether it’s a Clarice Cliff tea set, an Alvar Aalto chair or a Victorian ring, Alfies Antiques Market is truly an exceptional place to find beautiful and unusual pieces, with a specialist section for antiques from the Middle East. Enjoy the bohemian atmosphere, meet the dealers and visit the elegant rooftop café. 

For over 40 years, Alfies Antique Market has attracted new and serious collectors, interior and fashion designers and a host of celebrities to its vast and varied collection of art, antiques, jewellery and fashion. To this day people travel from all over the world to experience the bohemian chic atmosphere, and hunt across the four floors for unique and genuine treasures.
Alfies is proud to be the largest and longest running arcade of its kind in the country.

Find out more: alfiesantiques.com

8. Bowman Sculpture 

Robert Bowman, appointed sculpture expert for the UK Government, opened Bowman Sculpture in 1993 with his wife, Michele. He developed his expertise in sculpture during the 15 years prior at Sotheby’s, where he was the director of European works of art.

One of London’s rare family-owned-and-operated art galleries, Bowman Sculpture is today headed by Mr Bowman and his daughter, Mica, who joined the gallery last year as director. Robert has a world-renowned reputation for consistently sourcing important sculpture by some of the world’s most revered artists. His unique eye has earned him the trust of a myriad of clients and institutions, including the Musée Rodin, Musée d’Orsay and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artist-defining works have always been at the core of Bowman Sculpture, the world’s premier gallery for sculpture by Auguste Rodin, deals in sculpture from 1830 to the present day.

Find out more:  bowmansculpture.com

9. Grays Antiques 

Grays is home to one of the largest and most diverse collections of fine antiques, jewellery, watches and collectables in the world.

Just a few seconds away from Bond Street and Oxford Street, Grays is a focus of the London antiques trade and is home to some of its finest dealers. Grays has a multiplicity of stock comparable to attending an international fair, but with a healthy dose of London history. 

Close to Sotheby’s, Phillips, Asprey, the Royal Academy and many other institutions that make London the unquestioned epicentre of the art and antique dealing world, Grays gives dealers the opportunity to trade in an indoor environment, unencumbered by punitive overheads. 

When it was founded by Bennie Gray in 1964 it was the first permanent covered antiques market in the UK. A remarkable development at the time, the concept is now a much-copied blueprint the world over.

Find out more: graysantiques.com

10. Octavian

Fine wine is precious. Without proper storage however, it’s at risk of falling short of its full potential. 

Renowned across the fine wine world for its impeccable storage environment and no-compromise commitment to extraordinary care, Octavian is the choice of connoisseurs and collectors alike, seeking to maximise the value and pleasure of their collections.

For the past 30 years Octavian has continued to invest in world-class storage conditions at its cellars at Corsham, some 100 feet below the Wiltshire hills, encased in solid Bath stone. There, perfect temperature is a constant, humidity is controlled at optimum level, there is no natural light; vibration is non-existent and air quality is maintained at all times. Wines are nurtured in the exact environment needed for them to reach their full potential, protected against both physical harm and financial threat with enhanced ‘all risk’ insurance to protect at current value. 

Find out more at: octavian.co.uk

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post 10 ideas for curating your own treasure trove of art, antiques and collectables appeared first on Checklists.