The August Edit: What to Read, Watch and Buy Now

August 2, 2025 Claire Hill

One of my favourite things I used to do as a journalist was to enthusiastically promote what I love, and thought the readers would also love. From culture to food, shopping to interesting articles and people to be inspired by enjoy my monthly dive into my favourite things that I think will quickly become yours.

The summer holidays are in full swing so that means finding things for the kids to do while juggling all of the other jobs. Keep reading for things to distract - without driving you crazy - and some extra treats for you.

Two weeks into the summer holidays and I have suffered the Smurfs, quite enjoyed Bad Guys 2 and am risking a trip to The Fantastic Four after Jurassic World Rebirth was deemed too scary. But it is K Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix which has been the big hit with great music, good animation, a pretty decent story and lots of laughs. Beware it might end up on repeat in your house and the car all of August.

I've loved watching the Pamela Anderson resurgence over the last few years as she has reclaimed not only her story but how she is portrayed and wants to be seen. And I must say I'm rooting for her and Liam Neeson's budding romance, let's hope it is as heartwarming as Meryl Streep and Martin Short. This episode of Elizabeth Day's How to Fail with Pamela is particulary good. And if you are looking for something new to listen to I can recommend The Tea with Myriam Francois for interesting and powerful conversations that aren't in the mainstream.

It's been my 2-3 times a week sanctuary since January and the longest I have stuck to regular exercise and time for myself since I gave birth, so I wanted to shout out to Steph, Leah and Lydia-May at The Studio for helping my mind and body get strong with Pilates, both the reformer and the mat. It's super welcoming so if you are in Cardiff and you fancy trying it give me a shout and we can go together - it's not scary honest. Also a special mention is also needed for my favourite summer day trip with my child, Ponty Lido (30p for a kid's swim!!). You will find us there ever Tuesday morning and then off for pancakes at Little Pickers .

A big welcome to the high street in the form of Gweni Gwyllt (Wild Smile in Cymraeg) as my lovely friend Rachel has opened up her new boutique championing ethical and sustainable fashion with 12 female designers. Based in Machynlleth, I'm proud that my jewellery is part of her gorgeous shop as Rach was the first person to ever stock anything I made. This was back in the day when I was making Bridal accessories and headwear. Speaking of stockists I dropped off my first order to the amazing Anne Morgan jewellers in Penarth so you can buy my labret jewellery there along with some really talented jewellery designers and markers.

I know a lot of you loved the recommendation for the Palestinian Olive Oil last month and bought some so I thought I would keep the recommendations coming especially as the focus has increased regarding the genocide. I've been craving Coca Cola for ages but it's been on my boycott list since last year so I've just ordered some Cola Gaza. Palestinian-owned and with profits going to rebuild hospitals in Gaza. And if you have any spare cash this month and were thinking of donating I support The Palestinian Children's Relief Fund and The Slow Factory - who are always worth a follow - have a list of Community Kitchens on the ground to support.