1. Gas: Glass-fronted gas fires are the most energy efficient option, and very stylish too. High-efficiency gas fires can be up to 94% efficient. When you realise that an ordinary open fire is just 15% efficient, you can see how you’ll quickly make back the money you invest in a new fire. And they’re cleaner [...]

Now that you’ve visited the snowdrop gardens, why not create a snowdrop themed display on your mantelpiece this spring? If you can get hold of some real snowdrops, you can mix them with lots of  ivy and display them in a shallow bowl. Alternatively, try grouping bunches of snowdrops in the squares of a grid, [...]

For Valentine’s day why not treat yourself or your loved one to a useful heart-themed accessory for your home? Why not concentrate on something attractive AND useful this year for the heart or  hearth of your home, whether it’s your fireplace or your cooker.  And what’s cosier on Valentine’s Day than a warming fire with [...]

The hearth of your home, whether your fireplace or your  kitchen stove, no longer has to be a simple black or grey.  We love these rich ruby red colours – they would make a luscious accent against a simple neutral background. In chilly winter weather a wood burning stove or, better, a multifuel stove, is [...]

If we don’t get more snow in February, you can at least guarantee that we’ll start to see snowdrops.  Maybe it’s enough to tempt you away from your cosy fireside for a bracing walk around a winter garden?  Did you know that there are 19 species of snowdrop (or galanthus, meaning milk flower) and more [...]