Papapreneur

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Minipreneurs Like To Be Magna-Tiles Ahead

Minipreneurs Like To Be Magna-Tiles Ahead

Minipreneur loved playing with Magna-Tiles so much at preschool that I just had to get him his own set to play with at home.

A classic must-have toy, these colourful, versatile, super high-quality 3D magnetic building tiles are designed for cool learning activities, sparking creativity and imaginative play.

Little ones can make, create, learn, stack, build, and explore any way they want with this educational toy.

Magna-Tiles are available in a choice of set sizes and prices – just make sure you are buying authentic original products and not the cheaper lower quality magnetic tiles from lesser brands.

The Magna-Tiles 32-piece set is £19.99 from Smyths

Minipreneurs Love Learning with LeapFrog LeapStart

Minipreneurs Love Learning with LeapFrog LeapStart

Minipreneur loves books and insists on having at least 3 if not more books read to him during bedtime storytime, taking great pleasure in reciting all the bits he knows off by heart.

However, Mamapreneur and I think it is important for him to also spend individual time developing a love of learning so we were excited to find out more about the LeapFrog LeapStart Learning System which promises to get children excited about learning by bringing books to life.

The LeapStart learning system works with a library of replayable activity books (sold separately) that cover four learning levels. Each learning level teaches and supports 50+ core and life skills that complement the UK National Curriculum.

The kid-tough device and stylus help teach proper handwriting grip. Get kids excited to learn about everything from STEM to social skills and problem-solving as well as scientific thinking.

LeapFrog LeapStart Learning System is £41.99 from Argos and John Lewis & Partners. Activity books are available from Argos, Smyths. Amazon, and John Lewis & Partners.

Minipreneurs Like To Work, Arrest & Play

Minipreneurs Like To Work, Arrest & Play

Minipreneur loves playing cops and robbers with the baddies always being bank robbers – he knows that’s where the big bucks are!

So you can imagine his delight when he unwrapped the Hape Metro Police Department Playset – it has everything he would every need for some serious imaginative play where good always triumphs over evil.

The Hape Metro Police Department Playset is a feature-packed police station playset made of wood and plastic elements offering children hours of fun playing cops and robbers.

The two-level wooden station features a jail cell with an opening door (that can be locked with a teeny tiny key!), an office, a wooden helicopter with its own landing pad, a wooden police car with parking space, a police officer figure and a prisoner figure with poseable arms and legs so they can stand, sit and turn their heads.

There are also loads of accessories to bring the playset to life including searchlight, speaker, flag, walkie-talkies, roadblock cone and even a police dog! Plus, there’s a real alarm which sounds and lights up when you push the button.

The Hape Metro Police Department Playset is £72.95 from isaacstreasures.com

Weymouth’s Aquatic Wonderland: Family Fun at Sealife Park

Weymouth’s Aquatic Wonderland: Family Fun at Sealife Park

Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park has revealed its brand-new habitat for its adorable Asian short-clawed otter, Badger. After calling the place home for a decade, SEA LIFE wanted to provide its super-cute resident with a newly revamped pad, which provides added enrichment and allows Badger the chance to explore a range of new places, whilst he waits for a new mate to arrive.

Badger the bachelor Otter

The newly opened otter enclosure has upgraded Badger’s original home to feature tunnels with windows, a tranquil Asian garden theme – paying homage to the origin of the otters’ breed – pagodas and new gravel, meaning the aquatic mammal will be able to spend his day foraging in his new habitat, whilst enjoying the bigger open space. What’s more, male otter Badger, who was born in Weymouth in 2012, will be turning his new enclosure into Weymouth’s best bachelor pad, as he will be ridin’ solo until a new companion arrives at the aquarium ready to breed. Asian short-clawed otters are incredibly social animals, notoriously known for their playful and cheeky personalities, so there is no doubt that Badger will find a new soul mate in no time. The new enclosure means visitors will be able to get closer than ever before to the playful singleton, as guests can crawl through tunnels equipped with enhanced viewing areas. The enclosure will give guests an even better experience when visiting Badger, thanks to the new tunnels, windows and specialist viewing areas.

However, as we are based in London we decided to check out SEA LIFE London and support the animals closer to home.  Red is my favourite colour so I started small with the red cardinal fish.

It feels as if I am scuba diving, it is so nice to get up so close but not get wet!

I managed to find the grumpiest of fish but they seemed to play together, swimming in their aquarium!

but this one wouldn’t play with me!

SEALIFE isn’t just fish, they had penguins too but my favourite was the underwater tunnel with this fabulous creature

To visit Badger’s new bachelor pad at Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park and for further information on the aquarium, please visit www.visitsealife.com/weymouth or those closer to London, it’s lots of fun there too.

Family-Friendly Staycation at Hilton London Bankside

Family-Friendly Staycation at Hilton London Bankside

Hilton London Bankside is a design-led hotel and a Hilton flagship, pioneering the future of the brand and of travel. It is situated in the vibrant cultural hub of London’s Bankside, moments from iconic London attractions, including the Tate Modern, The Shard, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, and that foodie favourite, Borough Market. This prime location offers guests an incredible base from which Papapreneurs can explore the capital, but Minipreneurs are more than welcome.

The hotel’s unique design references the rich history of its neighbourhood. It has a modern industrial aesthetic that nods back to the history of the area in 1800, when the site was home to the famous Stevenson & Howell Fragrance Factory.

The hotel has 292 modern guest rooms, including 25 bespoke Suites and one beautiful Penthouse Apartment, which has its own private terrace and views of London. There are 11 flexible meeting rooms, Bankside’s largest Ballroom and leisure facilities, including a fitness studio and heated indoor swimming pool that allows children to swim accompanied by an adult.

The hotel also houses OXBO Bankside, a 168-cover restaurant serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, and The Distillery Bankside, which offers a wide range of drinks including over 100 gins.

Hilton London Bankside is the perfect choice for hosting private events. It has 11 unique spaces, including The Agora, an award-winning multi-sensory meeting room designed to inspire creativity and enhance human interactions. The hotel also offers spa experiences.

There are five different room options: Guest Room, Deluxe Guest Room, Executive Rooms and Suites, as well as a Penthouse Apartment. Guests staying in the Suites or Executive Rooms have complimentary breakfast and access to the exclusive Executive Lounge, which has a dedicated arrivals area and pre-check-in shower facilities. Hilton London Bankside offers a wealth of features and benefits for families staying at the hotel.

Bathtime fun is guaranteed for all thanks to the JOHNSON’S Baby toiletries and bath toys galore.

In addition, there is the luxurious fluffy kid-sized bathrobe and even a little teddy that’s yours to keep to remind your little one of the fabulous family-friendly stay.

What a child-friendly hotel! Hilton London Bankside goes above and beyond to make a child feel at home. Minipreneur was so happy with this glorious cot that awaited him.

Clearly a lot of thought and preparation goes into any child’s stay inclusive of a toddler-friendly seat and little steps.

Going above and beyond, a selection of toys was supplied along with a really sweet picture book that was a joy to read to Minipreneur.

It didn’t take him long to explore the toy box.

Then it was time to test out the musical instruments supplied after which there was plenty of creative play thanks to the crayons and colouring book.

A hard decision followed – should one jump on the bed or read a book? Luckily a compromise was found!

Our room was perfect for those who love views of the city skyline and you could even spy a train or two which fascinates little ones. No compromise on sound though. A peaceful night was had by all.

Downstairs, The Distillery Bankside is a destination bar, serving delicious nibbles, sharing platters and a unique drinks menu in a vibrant and sophisticated setting throughout the day. The Distillery Bankside is located on the site of Stevenson & Howell’s Fragrance Factory, which distilled essential oils and manufactured essences, flavourings and garnishes during the 1800s. The bar pays homage to its heritage by serving signature cocktails using homemade syrups, aromatics, infusions and bitters, all handcrafted by the bar’s expert bartenders.

The bar dedicates an entire section of the menu to gin from across the globe. It features over 100 different varieties, encompassing fine old classics, vintage favourites, its own brand and new gins from artisan distilleries springing up all over London, including Monkey 47, Langton’s Number 1 and Dodd’s Gin. Signature cocktail highlights include the o D.Fashioned (Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Campari, Frangelico & Banana), Bankside Colada (Pineapple Gin, Falernum, Apple, Cinnamon, Bitters, Lemon & Coconut Cream) and Alexander Royale (Remy Martin VSPO, White Chocolate, Pistachio, Oat, Cream Bitters & Golden Glitter).

Located between the Southbank & Borough Market, OXBO Bankside serves a menu of individual and sharing dishes. The cuisine pays homage to the restaurant’s multicultural neighbourhood, with French, Eastern and British gastronomy inspiring the offering. Executive Head Chef Ollie Couillard leads the kitchen. He uses fresh and seasonal ingredients to create global favourites, from Bankside Gin Cured Salmon to Roast Duck Breast. The restaurant features an all-day A La Carte Menu, as well as a vegan menu and a weekend brunch offering.

Spacious and modern, the restaurant has an open kitchen, which brings an element of theatre to the dining experience, making it the perfect setting for romantic date nights, dining with friends and celebratory catch-ups. The hotel’s fox theme is continued with mini cuddly fox toys that apparently have lots to say to their mini friends.

If your child likes foxes they will be extremely happy that they get their own kid-friendly plate, spoon and bowl all designed in the fox theme.

Adults won’t be disappointed either as Ollie Couillard is the Executive Head Chef at Hilton Bankside. He has 25 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, including at Michelin Star restaurants La Trompette and The Square in Mayfair and luxury hotels, The Dorchester and The Grosvenor House. During his career, Couillard has opened five highly successful restaurants, creating the concepts and menus for each one. He has also accumulated many awards during his time as Head Chef at La Trompette, including AA Guide Restaurant of the Year 2002-2003 and Best New Restaurant in the Good Food Guide and Time Out 2002.

Something from the varied selection of cocktails is worth a try by the grown-ups.

There is a touch of elegance with this foie gras and oyster mushroom ballotine.

The colours of the asparagus pop not only on the plate but are matched by a flavourful pop on the palate too.

A classic steak with peppercorn sauce is a perfect choice.

Although the lamb couscous takes first place in complexity and comfort. A winning combination.

Foxy fries are a guilty pleasure, I couldn’t sit down for dinner and not order them as they are absolutely scrumptious.

The only problem being is that they don’t allow you room for dessert because although bought to share, they are too good to share for most!

OXBO Bankside’s also has a wonderful vegan menu which has had a great reception in the plant-based community. It features a number of innovative dishes, from Avocado & Tofu Poke Bowl to a plant-based lightly spiced lentil dhal.

Hilton London Bankside
2-8 Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 0UG
+44 (0)20 3667 5600
www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lonsbhi-hilton-london-bankside/
@hiltonbankside

Stunning Views & Superb Service at Park Plaza County Hall London

Stunning Views & Superb Service at Park Plaza County Hall London

Park Plaza County Hall London is situated perfectly for any Papa or Minipreneur staycation.

Located in the heart of London, the city’s best attractions and sightseeing are on the doorstep.

Hotel staff are friendly and helpful.

Many bedrooms have stunning views of the London skyline and famous landmarks like the London Eye.

The Penthouse living room.

The Penthouse bedroom.

View from the Penthouse balcony.

Papa & Mini enjoying time on the balcony with a stunning view of London in the background.

Park Plaza County Hall boasts some of the best views of any London hotel. Here’s the view of the London Eye.

Minipreneur couldn’t wait to get out of his stroller to take a stroll on the balcony and enjoy the view.

If you want to see London from the ideal vantage point, you’ll love the views from the hotel. Here’s Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

What an amazing view of the London Eye from our suite. It’s a good thing Minipreneur isn’t afraid of heights!

After taking in the views, it was time to check out the welcome gifts from the team at Park Plaza County Hall.


I think Minipreneur approves of the lovely food & drink welcoming us to Park Plaza.

And just like Goldilocks, Minipreneurwent from tasting the food to trying out the bed but luckily met a friendly elephant rather than an angry family of bears!

Hello Ellie Elephant! Minipreneur goes in for a hug.

Minipreneur then discovered the “Park Plaza Cash” for him to spend in the hotel on little treats. We love this kid-friendly idea.

After a visit to the London Aquarium with his grown-ups, Minipreneur returned to the suite for a chillax with his CBeebies friends. Can you spot the cuddly clownfish?

Minipreneur loves art and made the most of the colouring in supplies provided by the kid-friendly Park Plaza team.

Atrio Bar.

Atrio Restaurant.

Bread Basket sets the scene but I’ll be reviewing the whole dinner soon.

A lovely setting to enjoy a satisfying hotel breakfast.

Park Plaza County Hall London
1 Addington Street, London SE1 7RY
+44 (0) 333 400 6116
www.parkplazacountyhall.com

Farm Wilder: Regenerative farming in harmony with nature with meat boxes direct to your door

Farm Wilder: Regenerative farming in harmony with nature with meat boxes direct to your door

Papapreneurs love to support their environment, as we want this world to be as good as it can be for future generations. Anyone who regularly reads Papapreneur, you will know how much I love food. I also know that the quality of the meat, also affects the outcome of the dish, but there is more than just taste. That is why, I decided to try different meat boxes, butchers and more. Here is one that I’ll be using again.

Farm Wilder is a non-profit organisation promoting nature-friendly farming that supplies meat boxes direct to your door via its ecommerce site at www.farmwilder.co.uk from farms in south Devon and east Cornwall. The entire range is reared by farmers who are committed to supporting and restoring wildlife to their farms by using regenerative farming practices. They work in harmony with the environment to benefit the animals, consumers, wildlife and the natural world.

Father and son walking on the road.

Not only does this positively impact wildlife habitats but it gives people the choice to select delicious food that doesn’t cost the earth. Its slow grown livestock reared with the highest welfare standards on a varied diet of herbs, legumes, grasses and tree browse. The meat is healthier with a rich and complex flavour. The animals are all grass-fed which means they live outside and are not fed any imported grains This ensure the flavours are incredible – succulent, tender and oozing with the most mouth-watering taste.

Johnny Haimes & cattle at Saltram House

Regenerative farming improves sustainability across the whole farm, restoring soil health, increasing soil carbon, reducing soil pollution, and making the land more resilient to climate change.

Tim Williams with cattle at Erth Barton

Farm Wilder’s beef comes from farms that are conserving and restoring old and wildly diverse pastures that support much of our rarest and most endangered wildlife, lamb comes from regenerative farms that are encouraging wildlife to thrive with wildflower restoration, introducing agroforestry, planting hedgerows and sowing herbal lays. Wilder chicken is slowly grown in acres of space foraging on diverse crops, and Wilder Venison is free roaming from Forestry England sites.

Daniel Mason at Sladesdown

Farm Wilder labels all its meat, allowing customers to understand where their meat has come from and the wildlife it is helping to save. It gives consumers the choice of buying food from farms that are protecting and restoring biodiversity – a choice that doesn’t currently exist in the marketplace.

Choose a meat box, available from £59.99 or build your own box, adding Farm Wilder beef, Farm Wilder Lamb, Wilder Chicken and Wilder Venison.

Alternatively, why not try the Pasture Fed Favourites Box (£104.72) which contains a collection of 100% pasture fed meat with wonderfully deep flavours and includes lean mince beef, lamb barnsley chops, whole shoulder of lamb, lamb boneless chump, rump steak, sirloin steak and a silverside joint. Even the most ravenous carnivore and his tribe will enjoy many days of feasting with this wonderful selection of meats which all come frozen so you can choose exactly when you want to eat each meaty treat from Farm Wilder.

Farm Wilder was founded by Tim Martin, a former executive producer with the BBC’s Natural History Unit and Luke Dale Harris, a former investigative journalist and current adviser for the Farm and Wildlife Advisor Group.

Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus)

It is partnered with MC Kelly which supplies meat to the hospitality trade throughout the Westcountry and whose CEO Andy Gray farms at Elston Farm in the heart of Devon. This allows Farm Wilder to use MC Kelly’s master butchers and online sales platform to deliver meat right to your door.

Marsh Fritillary Butterfly in Ireland

Supporting Farm Wilder means consumers can directly support farmers who are working to deliver important environmental changes the world needs and supporting wildlife and our environment. That’s why as a Papapreneur I decided to try them out. I like their story and also am impressed with the quality of their meat.

Papapreneurs & Minipreneurs Love The Animals at ZSL London Zoo

Papapreneurs & Minipreneurs Love The Animals at ZSL London Zoo

London Zoo is the perfect way to spend a day when you have little ones, or even for the big kid in you. This was Minipreneur’s first trip to a Zoo.

ZSL London Zoo main entrance © ZSL London Zoo

From Saturday 28 May to Sunday 5 June, ZSL London Zoo will pay tribute to its Royal Patron, HM The Queen Elizabeth II, with a new outdoor picture gallery charting the Zoo’s royal history and a series of regally British activities in the Zoo’s blooming gardens. Visitors to ZSL London Zoo this May half-term are invited to join the Zoobilee Festival – a week-long wildlife-themed celebration to mark The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

With children’s storytime sessions, face-painting, lawn games and a series of four-legged visitors throughout the day – including alpacas Alpacaccino, Cuenca and Cookie, and the Zoo’s herd of friendly pygmy goats – ZSL London Zoo’s Zoobilee Festival is the perfect half-term day out with the family.

Pygmy Hippo © ZSL London Zoo

Grown-ups can relax on summer deckchairs, or picnic under colourful bunting, while children can bring their treasured teddies to join the wildest Teddy Bear’s Picnic around.

Penguin Beach © ZSL London Zoo

However, whatever date you choose to go, you can have a wonderful day out. Perhaps pick up a real picnic from the Zoo’s Terrace Restaurant and snack on traditional British favourites including finger sandwiches and cream teas – surrounded by majestic Asiatic lions, Humboldt penguins and more than 14,000 other regal animals from around the world.

Asiatic lion Bhanu © ZSL London Zoo

Discover the kings and queens of the animal kingdom at a fun animal talk, or head to a pop-up Q&A with the Zoo’s team of expert keepers, vets and gardeners to explore more royal wildlife connections – such as which animals have natural ‘crowns’ and why.

Squirrel monkey © ZSL London Zoo

Identify the unusual species of tiger

We were pleased to hear about a new royal gallery celebrating international conservation charity ZSL’s long history with the Royal family, which dates all the way back to 1829, when ZSL was first granted a prestigious Royal Charter by King George IV. Find out about The Queen’s visits to London’s zoo as a child, before becoming Patron of ZSL upon her coronation – and how Her Majesty has supported the conservation charity and its two zoos, London and Whipsnade, in the 70 years since.

Princess Elizabeth visiting ZSL London Zoo in 1939 © ZSL London Zoo

Take photos next to the animals, but be careful which ones you get up close to!

Find ones that move a little more than others!

Western lowland gorilla © ZSL London Zoo

Even learn and explore the wonderful bug kingdom

Perfect day out for Minipreneurs and papa’s everywhere. We visited London Zoo but they also have one in Whipsnade which we will check out in the next holidays.

ZSL London Zoo
Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY
0344 225 1826
www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo
@zsllondonzoo

Minipreneur’s Favourites for National Share-A-Story Month

Minipreneur’s Favourites for National Share-A-Story Month

Here are some of Minipreneur’s favourite picture books for National Share-A-Story Month.

Attack of the Giant Baby! by David Lucas & Bruce Ingman

I read this book every night to Minipreneur. He absolutely loves it! This laugh-out-loud picture book is perfect for igniting giant imaginations with a story about a Giant Baby destroying everything in his path and the various attempts by the King to save the kingdom from sending in the Royal Airforce to letting loose a monster-sized bear. But why is no-one listening to the Princess? Find out in this larger-than-life picture book written by David Lucas and illustrated by Bruce Ingman.

£12.99 published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Tilda Tries Again by Tom Percival

Bold, bright and empowering, this is an inspiring story written & illustrated by Tom Percival about coping with difficult situations. I think this is the ideal book for helping children build resilience, self-confidence and manage their feelings. It’s also the kind of book that helps little ones embrace a ‘can do’ approach to life. Minipreneur loves this book and I think every child’s bookshelf should contain one (or more) of Tom’s books.

£6.99 published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

The Witchling’s Wish by Lu Fraser & Sarah Massini

This is a heart-warming, magical picture book about what it means to be a friend written by the hugely talented Lu Fraser and beautifully illustrated by Sarah Massini. This is a beautiful friendship story full of gentle charm and gorgeous illustrations. Minipreneur loves the appealing rhyme this book is written in.

£12.99 published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

The Viking Who Liked Icing by Lu Fraser & Mark McKinley

Nut isn’t like the other vikings; he doesn’t climb hills or swim icy lakes… but he does have one great passion – Nut loves to bake cakes! Told in effortless verse, this hilarious picture book is an original take on believing in yourself & learning how to shine – two important emotional skills that I’m instilling in Minipreneur from an early age.

£6.99 published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Leaves by Stephen Hogtun

A gorgeous debut picture book from a huge new talent, this is a moving story about the leaves that grow and fall, and the memories we hold dear of intergenerational relationships – perfect for fans of Benji Davies and Oliver Jeffers. Filled with Stephen’s luminous, atmospheric artwork, this is a truly beautiful book that shines in both its moving message and its gorgeous illustration style. It’s a real pleasure to share with Minipreneur during storytime.

£12.99 published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Minipreneur’s Book Club: Favourite Children’s Books This May

Minipreneur’s Book Club: Favourite Children’s Books This May

Here are some of Minipreneur’s favourite picture books this month.

The Library Book by Gabby Dawnay & Ian Morris

Minipreneur loves storytime. If your little one is just getting into books, this picture book written by Gabby Dawnay and illustrated by Ian Morris will help early readers understand the plethora of books available to them through their local library and encourages parents, guardians and teachers to help children find books that appeal to their personal interests. Written in a catchy rhyming style by bestselling author Gabby Dawnay, The Library Book will trigger a love of words in readers of all abilities, while Ian Morris’ inventive watercolour illustrations make Zach’s emotional journey come alive. The combination is a picture book that will inspire a love of libraries, reading, books and words in even the most reluctant reader.

£12.99 published by Thames & Hudson

The Big Book of Belonging by Yuval Zommer

If there’s something Minipreneur loves more than reading, it is nature. The Big Book of Belonging is for all the children who like to climb trees, run barefoot, splash in paddles, search for bugs, sing with the birds, taste snowflakes and count the stars. By placing children at the heart of the natural world, the book celebrates our connection with planet Earth and reveals the often surprising similarities between humans,  animals and plants. Illustrated in Yuval Zommer’s inimitable style and packed with quirky natural history facts, the book’s uplifting message will inspire environmentalists young and old alike.

£14.99 published by Thames & Hudson

Operation Alphabet by Al MacCuish & Luciano Lozano

Minipreneur is really good at numbers and can now count to 36 which is funny given he has just turned 3. However, the alphabet doesn’t fascinate him in the same way so I was keen to find a book that brought the ABC to life. This is why I was so happy finding this book. In Operation Alphabet, Charlie Foxtrot starts school and finds mastering the alphabet confusing. But thanks to the help of the Special Alphabet Service, he learns about the power of letters and words. The charming artwork, reminiscent of classic children’s book illustrations from the 1950s and 1960s, combines with the witty text to bring the characters of the alphabet to life.

£6.99 published by Thames & Hudson

The Sea by Piret Raud

This surreal story about The Sea and her fish children and the importance of reading and bedtime stories blends a highly imaginative narrative and illustrations with an empathetic understanding of the challenges of solo-parenting. Minipreneur loves the surrealism of this quirky picture book.

£9.99 published by Thames & Hudson

Are You Hungry? by Janik Coat & Bernard Duisit

This Flip Flap Pop-Up book is packed with flaps to lift, tabs to pull and plenty of surprises that kept Minipreneur engaged right to the end. It’s a really simple yet useful way to help encourage discussion with your young children about food, likes & dislikes and mealtimes.

£8.95 published by Thames & Hudson

Steak Staycation at The Westminster London

Steak Staycation at The Westminster London

This Papapreneur is always on the lookout for steak restaurants that can do other meats just as well as they do steak. So often places disappoint, but at STK, there are a lot of choices.

Located in the heart of historic London, The Westminster is surrounded by the capital’s most famous landmarks: The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey are a stroll away in an area rich with history, home to some of the world’s most legendary authors and political figures.

Like the location at large, The Westminster echoes a lively but intimate setting infused with mystery and curiosity, leaving you with a feeling there’s more than meets the eye.

STK Westminster combines a modern steakhouse and chic lounge with a bustling bar scene, an inspired menu, and a vibed dining atmosphere featuring its very own bowling alley.

The Westminster features uniquely tailored rooms with sublime city views. The expertly designed Queen Rooms offer an intimate and balanced experience. The relaxed, modern and sophisticated feel of the guest rooms offer a generous warm welcome to all of the guests.

As well as your bespoke bed and 4K Ultra HD 49-inch TV, this room’s modern style is enhanced by added extras, including an elegant bathroom with luxury rain shower, bathrobes, and slippers.

If suites are more your style, within the spacious and bright King Junior Suites and King One Bedroom Suite, you can enjoy the extra comfort of a large suite with the same high-end amenities as the Queen Rooms including a generous lounge area with a comfortable sofa bed.

The added touch includes a barista-like experience from the Nespresso coffee machine that you can enjoy within your room throughout the day.

For the ultimate in luxury and boasting incredible views over the River Thames, The Westminster Suite offers the extra comfort of a large room with a separate living area including a dining table and 2 bathrooms.

With two excellent dining options, you’re spoilt for choice whether you fancy a whimsical twist on classical bao at Bao Yum or a contemporary take on classic American cuisine at STK Westminster.


STK Steakhouse is a globally recognized restaurant brand that artfully combines the modern steakhouse and chic lounge into one VIBE DINING experience. STK Westminster offers a dynamic, fine dining experience with the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse.


Dinner at STK Westminster can be had whether you stay at the hotel or not. It is on the first floor and separate to the hotel. A good choice of cocktails with a twist on the classic Old Fashioned on the list. Not Your Daddy’s Old Fashioned is a blend of Japanese Whisky, Cadello 88, Cherry Heering Liqueur, Maple Syrup and Orange Bitters.


Crispy Calamari is garnished with basil and Padron peppers and comes with two different sauces – roasted garlic & lime aioli and Asian chilli sauce. The calamari was lightly cooked, so not too much crunch on this delicate sea creature. The perfect amount of bite and flavour.


Grilled King Prawn on the Specials menu was absolutely gorgeous. If this appears on the menu again, I would definitely jump at the chance to order it.


As one would expect, STK features a nice selection of steaks, but the 300g Wagyu Picanha definitely caught my eye. Served a little rarer than I would like or ordered but delicious nonetheless.


For those who want a meat option but not steak, Roasted Lamb Rack was a scrumptious choice with a pistachio crust and served with heirloom carrots & black garlic.


STK serves three types of Mac & Cheese which all make a great side option but our favourite has to be the Truffle Mac & Cheese.


Those with a sweet tooth are well-catered for with a choice of four delicious desserts on the menu from Hazelnut Chocolate Cake and Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie to Apple Pie and New York Cheesecake.

For the Papapreneurs who need to focus on business as well, The Westminster offers a range of unique spaces to suit everything from company brainstorms to intimate dinners and cocktail receptions. The hotel’s events spaces reflect the eclectic rich local history.

Elegant, spacious meeting rooms and event venues with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment are available in addition to intimate private dining rooms providing a unique contemporary and sophisticated dining experience.

The Westminster has also reinvigorated the experience of bowling thanks to The Bowling Alley – a funky exclusive and fully private space that’s perfect for personal celebrations and team-building events alike. Guests can take full advantage of unlimited bowling and enjoy their very own private bar. With the carefully curated STK playlist, The Westminster’s bowling alley provides the perfect setting for cool and exclusive private experiences in a space that is truly unforgettable.

Situated in one of the capital’s most sought-after cultural districts, The Westminster London , Curio Collection by Hilton is within walking distance of some of the world’s most iconic historical landmarks, The Houses of Parliament, one of the world’s most famous clocks, ‘Big Ben’ and Westminster Abbey are just a short stroll away.

You can also walk to a host of other famous London landmarks such as 10 Downing Street, Horse Guards Palace, The Mall, Pall Mall, Clarence House, Buckingham Palace, The Royal Mews, St James’ Park, Churchill War Rooms, Westminster Abbey and St James’ Palace.

The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton
30 John Islip Street, London SW1P 4DD
+44 (0)20 7630 1000
www.hotelwestminster.co.uk

Minipreneur’s Favourites for International Children’s Book Day

Minipreneur’s Favourites for International Children’s Book Day

Here are some of Minipreneur’s favourite picture books for International Children’s Book Day.

I’m Sticking With You Too by Smriti Halls & Steve Small

Minipreneur loves exploring pictures by the illustrator Steve Small, so we simply had to get this book as soon as it was published. A joyful tale about acceptance and belonging, this beautifully written, gorgeously illustrated follow-up to the bestselling I’m Sticking with You is the perfect book for examining how, even if new friends might disrupt the rhythm at first, the sense of belonging
that friendship can bring has the potential to make your heart sing!

£12.99 published by Simon & Schuster Children’s

The Dragon with the Blazing Bottom by Beach

Minipreneur loves a laugh-out-loud story so I couldn’t wait to read him this first book in a fabulously funny and hugely appealing A Very Fiery Fairy Tale series about a dragon who has lost his flame from the hugely exciting new picture book talent, Beach. This hilarious and dynamic character-driven picture book has a truly explosive ending that young children will love.

£12.99 published by Simon & Schuster Children’s

Little Bear by Richard Jones

From the highly talented author-illustrator Richard Jones, Little Bear is a tender, stunningly illustrated story about the friendship between a boy and a little polar bear. I loved this book as it helped Minipreneur understand the concept of letting go with love.

£12.99 published by Simon & Schuster Children’s

How to Track a Sabre-Toothed Tiger by Caryl Hart & Ed Eaves

This book transported Minipreneur to the Stone Age. How to Track a Sabre-Toothed Tiger is the latest adventure in the bestselling Albie series as we join Albie on a prehistoric adventure where he meets lots of amazing animals on the way. Minipreneur loved getting involved in the fun and naming all the different animals.

£6.99 published by Simon & Schuster Children’s

The Runaway Pea Left Behind by Kjartan Poskitt & Alex Willmore

Disaster strikes when Pea falls out of the shopping bag. Follow Pea as he journeys across the city on a skateboard, bus, and even on the wings of a passing-by bird for the adventure of a lifetime. Sometimes it pays to be small! The Runaway Pea Left Behind is laugh-out-loud funny, bursting with imagination, and the most perfect third story in this much-loved series. Minipreneur thinks this story is hilarious and giggles all the way through it!

£6.99 published by Simon & Schuster Children’s

Papapreneurs Drink Pink – Bow Bar: Street attitude with city refinement

Papapreneurs Drink Pink – Bow Bar: Street attitude with city refinement

Bow Bar is a new destination bar that is bringing to West London the creative dynamism of the East End, an area renowned for its eclectic design, gastronomic innovation, trendsetting philosophy and vibrant atmosphere. Bow Bar takes residence inside the flagship Hilton London Metropole hotel on the Edgware Road and hosts an array of DJs from Thursday – Saturday.

Featuring a dramatic central bar, sleek copper menus and warm lighting, the décor is bought to life with lively commissioned artwork inspired by Bow, Columbia Road Market and East London in general – created by local resident, Olha Pryymaak.


Bow Bar’s name references the Bow bells of London – to be a true Londoner, one must have been born within the sound of these East London church bells. This spirit of authenticity and East London’s daring soul and strong character can be tasted in each sip of the bar’s innovative cocktails, expertly crafted by the team’s imaginative mixologists, who take centre stage. The attention to detail here is amazing, from the grafitti on the stem of your glass to the delicately placed raspberry in the Blinker.

The attention to making each sip perfect is second to none. Order meets Chaos at Bow Bar with the pairing of General Manager Pietro Fania and Assistant General Manager Francesco Betti. Both have crafted an ever-changing, seasonal creative mixology menu, featuring artistic, decorative and complex cocktails with stunning visual presentation to satisfy the senses. Their passion and great teamwork is a gem in this well-thought out destination. It is always lovely to see two talented people reunited and after a stint working together in a previous venue (which I love) and a little break away with Pietro even venturing to Australia, these two are back working together at Bow Bar and we are so lucky that they have.

Assistant General Manager, Francesco Betti (left) and General Manager, Pietro Fania (right)

Francesco and Pietro endeavour to provide an educational experience at the bar, taking time to converse with customers and create their perfect mixology mix – always on-hand for recommendations that take customers out of their comfort zone, to surprise and delight with cocktail creations such as the Bell Old Fashioned that is smoked before your eyes with “East London Fog” and is a blend of Diplomatico Riserva Exclusiva, Coconut Pearl Fat Washing, Pineapple Barks Infusion, Tropical Husks Extract and Sea Salt Caramel.

Pietro commented: “The anticipation to launch Bow Bar has been immense. We’ve spent months and months scribbling in our notebooks, half in Italian, half in English, crafting incredible recipes to surprise and delight the cocktail lovers of London.” His love of psychology also gives him the edge of anticipating your needs and making everyone feel welcome. Although this bar is perfect for groups, it is also very much somewhere you can drink alone but feel as much a part of the experience as anyone else.

Francesco continues: “We both live in bustling Brick Lane and are excited to bring a taste of the East End to West London. We spend time with guests to understand the preferred flavour profile to suggest one of our unexpected creations. Take the Blinker, for example, a deliciously sweet taste created with whiskey. We never get bored seeing the non-whisky lovers stunned reactions after their first taste. We love challenging the norm and enticing guests out of their comfort zone.”

The Blinker (vibrant red drink pictured earlier in this article) is the perfect choice for converting any non-whisky drinker. In fact, people who normally don’t order whisky and choose a clear spirit such as gin or vodka have been said to recommend this cocktail. The technique here is the perfect combination of flavours, and this doesn’t come by accident. The level of commitment in trialling new drinks, working out the quantities, and deciding how long to infuse certain ingredients is what makes this one of the finest establishments for cocktails. You can see the skill in choosing infusing times,  where one day can make something so intense you have to throw the whole bottle out and start again and if the base isn’t right you also have to go back to the drawing board and choose a different brand of spirit. This is why passion is so important and Francesco & Pietro are two mixologists that take a passion for cocktails to the next level. No drink is average or simple!

Bow Bar is a vibrant space serving late-afternoon and night-time drinks, including quality spirits and East London crafted beers, and shareable, creative small plates made with British ingredients and featuring the East End’s iconic Jellied Eels in addition to Spiced Beef Tartar and Chilled Shiitake Mushroom.

No respectable East London bar would be without a gin selection and Bow Bar is no exception. London’s age-old love affair with the spirit is encapsulated in Bow Bar’s very own 225 Gin. Blended and bottled in the capital, every drop encapsulates Bow Bar’s unique and incomparable essence. Guests will want to take a bottle, or two, home from Bow Bar (which is the only stockist in London).

Highlights from the cocktail menu as previously talked about before include the Blinker – Macallan 12 Sherry Oak Cask, Fresh Berries Compote, French Forrest Wild Berries Liqueur, Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice & Raspberry Coating.

A lower alcohol option is Spritz Lane – Aperol, Italicus, Peach and Grapefruit Cordial and Bubble.

Last but by no means least is Columbia Road Martini – Roku Japanese Gin, Grey Goose Vodka, Middle-East Rose Infusion, Redchurch Pale Ale Reduction, Wild Foragers Liqueur & Apple Malic Acid. If that presentation doesn’t make you want to order this cocktail then the taste will most definitely.

Bow Bar is sustainability-focused. Each uniform is made from fully recyclable materials. Herbs and garnishes are grown in an inside garden on the bar, compostable straws made of agave adorn the drinks and careful management of water filtration is considered.

Bow Bar is open every day of the week from 11am to 1am.

Bow Bar at Hilton London Metropole
225 Edgware Road, Paddington, London W2 1JU
020 7402 4141
www.londonmetpresents.com
@bowbarldn

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