With September behind us we are well and truly on our way into the autumn, one of my favourite times of the year and when matchmaking really heats up. What can be better than the smell of fallen leaves, a blaze of red, orange and yellow through the trees, and spectacular Technicolor sunsets? It’s the perfect time for that long city park stroll, or countryside walks that are naturally casual.
What can be more inspiring for romantic matchmaking than to be in the big outdoors walking hand in hand in the fresh air or sharing an umbrella? The countryside beckons and what better way to travel than to rent a vintage car from Open Road Classic Car hire? Imagine pootling about in a 1962 Austin Healy or a 1970 E-type jag. Take a train from central London to Stratford Upon Avon or Warwick and they’ll meet you at the station with the vehicle of your dreams. From there you can take a short drive to the gorgeous 17th century Lower Slaughter Manor located in what is considered Gloucestershire’s prettiest village.
If you want to splash out book a room in the Georgian Coach House. Highly recommended by Maclynn’s matchmaking professionals is the Valentine suite with a huge bathroom that sports two…yes you read correctly two roll top baths with French doors leading to a private garden with hot tub!
There’s nothing sexier than indulging in some kitchen antics everyone and again with a special someone – something about chocolate mousse and finger licking. Take your partner and drop into The Cookery School at Daylesford Organic Farm whose branches in Notting Hill and Pimlico are positively heaving with people from the deep end of the gene pool. Courses take place in a converted barn where you can indulge in a four-course menu with wine or simply pour your efforts into your favourite desserts.
The English countryside delivers romance in spades and a wander around the grounds of Sudeley Castle will thrust you into your very own episode of The Tudors or White Queen. The Castle was home to Henry VIII last wife Katherine Parr and its walls are groaning with Van Dykes and Rubens. Autumn is the perfect time to snuggle up by a fire, curl up under a blanket, or enjoy a heavenly ‘meringue’ duvet with someone you love. Take a leaf out of my autumn book and embrace the chill. Happy matchmaking.
By Martin Turner
Martin Turner has had a 25 year global career in events which resulted in the book Travel Secrets in 2010 and a new career in journalism and lecturing. A recent graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Art, he has won his way into the heart of the VIDA team while zooming about the planet on new assignments and escapades.
