What Flies Our Kite - Sauna, Sea Swims and Summer Reads
The team’s latest loves, adventures and discoveries...
We’re big believers in the little joys – those uplifting moments, places and passions that brighten our days and inspire what we do here at Kite. Each month, we’re rounding up a few things that are flying our collective kite… from wild swims to local gems, creative hobbies and foodie favourites.
Here’s what the team has been loving this July.
A sunny team day out at Studland
We made the most of a glorious July day with a trip to Studland Bay – just a stone’s throw from Kite HQ. With soft sand, shallow waters and sweeping views, it’s one of our favourite places to press pause and soak up the beauty of the Dorset coast.
If you haven’t discovered the Studland Beach Sauna yet, consider this your sign. Tucked right on the shoreline, it’s a unique way to warm up after a bracing sea swim. Some of the team tried the full hot–cold cycle with a plunge into the sea straight after... let’s just say it was refreshing. An unforgettable experience and a brilliant gift idea too.
Just around the corner from Studland beach, Shell Bay Restaurant is one of our go-to recommendations – and we thought it deserved a spot here too. With fresh seafood, beautiful views and a relaxed, coastal vibe, it’s a real local gem. Perfect for date nights, weekend lunches or post-swim dinners with a view.
Hooked on crochet
Crochet is having a well-deserved moment – and a few of the Kite team have officially joined the club. It’s mindful, creative and easy to pick up (plus, it makes for a very relaxing evening activity). Whether you’re making a colourful coaster or diving into your first jumper, there’s something so satisfying about watching it grow stitch by stitch. We’ve been loving the bright, beginner-friendly kits from Wool and the Gang.
Wild swims and snorkel spots
Open water swimming continues to be a favourite with the team at Kite – and with so many beautiful coastal dips on our doorstep, it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s for the headspace, the challenge or the chance to be part of a brilliant community, there’s something really special about taking the plunge.
And it’s not just swimming… there’s been some serious snorkelling rediscovery too. First stop? Kimmeridge Bay – part of the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and a brilliant place to spot underwater life, explore rockpools and enjoy the quieter side of the coast.
Kite’s summer reading list
We have a lot of keen readers at Kite HQ (we even have our own book club) so we’ve rounded up some of our current favourite reads to inspire you. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, enjoying a peaceful park bench moment or snuggling on the sofa with a cuppa, our summer reading list has something for everyone.
From gripping thrillers to heartwarming tales, these picks have been flying around the Kite office lately.
A taste of Dorset
Tucked away in Poole, The Pickled Berry is a new favourite of ours – a lovely spot that brings together comforting flavours with just the right amount of flair. Their menu is full of clever twists on traditional recipes, with inspiration drawn from the best local ingredients Dorset has to offer. Think fresh-from-the-market produce, carefully crafted dishes and a real celebration of quality.
We also love the atmosphere – relaxed, welcoming and just right for sharing a meal with the people you love. Whether it’s a low-key dinner, a birthday treat or a long-overdue catch-up, it’s one of those places that feels special without trying too hard.
If you would like to go and try it out yourself, The Pickled Berry have offered Kite customers a 10% discount code: Kite10
A sweet summer recipe
This month we’re sharing a dreamy little dessert that’s just right for sunny days, lazy afternoons and family picnics. Light, refreshing and bursting with flavour, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a real treat but is surprisingly simple to make.
At the heart of this summer showstopper is a cloud-like lemon cream – soft, zingy and the perfect match for a tumble of juicy seasonal berries. Whether you’re hosting friends, packing up a picnic or simply fancy something sweet after supper, this dessert is bound to go down well.
It’s been a firm favourite in the Kite kitchen for good reason – and we hope you’ll love it as much as we do.
