What Flies Our Kite - Running, Recipes and Woodland Retreats

We’re big believers in life’s little joys – those uplifting moments, places and passions that brighten our days and inspire everything we do here at Kite.

Each month, we share a few things that have been flying our collective kite… from books we’ve loved to new discoveries, creative adventures and comforting treats.

As the days grow shorter and the air crisp with autumn, we’ve been embracing the season with open arms.

A huge shoutout to our incredible team members who laced up their trainers and took on the Bournemouth Half Marathon. Running for Macmillan Cancer, Meningitis Research Foundation and Julia’s House, they powered through the 13.1-mile course along the stunning south coast.

Jo, Rachel and Sarah were joined on this half marathon by two ex-employees of Kite - Jo’s daughter Polly and Kirstie. Having never run a marathon before our founder Jo wanted to check this one off her list. “The training was a lot but well worth it - the atmosphere was amazing! I’d definitely recommend a more experienced running partner for anyone doing it for the first time - Polly was a brilliant motivator and pacemaker and got me through the last few miles!”

To celebrate Kite’s 18th birthday, our talented Assistant Buyer Libby baked a showstopper: a three-layer lemon and elderflower cake adorned with elderflower drizzle, blackberry jam, and elderflower buttercream. Inspired by Jane’s Patisserie’s recipe, it was a delightful nod to our milestone year. The cake was as beautiful as it was delicious!

TRY OUT THE RECIPE

Our Print Designer Katie embarked on a breathtaking four-day journey along the South West Coast Path, covering approximately 50 miles of England’s most scenic coastline. Starting in Seatown and finishing at Durdle Door, Katie’s adventure included a mix of camping and B&B stays. Katie described the experience as "incredible” with “the most beautiful views every day”. She’s already planning her next leg - Land's End, here she comes!

PLAN YOUR OWN TRIP

Taking a slightly slower pace, our Brand Manager Lauren took her mum for a morning of relaxation at the enchanting Forest Sauna at Happy River Retreat. Surrounded by trees and the calming sounds of nature, it was a blissful way to reset and recharge. Perfect for anyone looking to embrace the restorative power of the outdoors while indulging in a little mindful self-care.

DISCOVER THE FOREST SAUNA

Last week we hosted our very first Kite Collective Book Club evening – and we were joined by the brilliant author Clare Leslie Hall to discuss her powerful novel, Broken Country.

Members of the Kite community came together both in person at Westbourne Bookshop and online for an inspiring conversation about Clare’s writing journey, the stories that shaped her, and the themes that run through her book. From exploring the research process to sharing her dream film casting, Clare gave us such a fascinating insight into her world as a writer. Keep an eye on our socials for details of the next event in the new year.

We hope these stories inspire you as much as they’ve inspired us. Whether it’s setting new personal goals, trying your hand at a new recipe, exploring the great outdoors or simply taking a moment to breathe, we’re here for it all.