Goodwood's James Hughes shares his downtime essentials

Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?

James Hughes: I must admit, I am not very good with this as I derive a huge amount of pleasure from both. Since the pandemic until the end of 2023, I was in the office infrequently except for meetings, so everything blurred. However, I am now on the estate three to four days a week and in London on the others. The drive to and from West Sussex is the perfect buffer and way to download the day.

What’s one thing you do after the workday to help you unwind?

Being married with a daughter, two Tibetan terriers, and having recently adopted a Netherland Dwarf rabbit as well as a Lionhead-Angora rabbit, it tends to be something family or pet-related. Always fun though!

What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and re-centre after a stressful week?

Long walks, the outdoors, nature and racquet sports whenever I can. I am not one to just put on the Hokas and head out for a run, however am envious of those who do. I'm building up to it.

What’s something you’ve read, listened to, or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?

No Rules Rules by Erin Meyer and Reed Hastings. I am really enjoying reading about the unique culture which Netflix has fostered. It's an interesting one.

After home and the office, where’s your favourite ‘third space’?

West Wittering Beach when I'm down in West Sussex, and exploring the Surrey Hills with the pooches when near home.

On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?

Bingeing on rather unhealthy and often quite traumatising documentaries seems to be my current go-to. I have become quite zen in middling age, and like to practice mindfulness and to keep things simple. Combine that with the fact I always look forward to the working week and exciting challenges it inevitably presents, and I don’t find It hard to shift back in to gear prior to the week ahead.

Best reason you've had to turn your Out of Office on recently?

A lovely trip to sunny Portugal with my wife – our first overseas holiday in six years.

Your go-to out of office outfit: A heavy gauge knit, Nathan chukka boots by Cleverley, Japanese selvedge denim, and sometimes a piece from my Kilgour archive. I'm not a fan of big logos and normally dress in a pretty monochromatic way – my wardrobe is a scary sea of navy, black and grey with a hint of khaki.

Your happy place anywhere in the world: In the UK, Devon, and abroad, the south of France.

Your favourite bar or restaurant: We tend to be pretty low-key, so at the end of a dog walk, we like a nice pub lunch nearby. Currently, that's The Running Horses in Mickleham. That said, Woven by Adam Smith at Coworth Park is also a favourite if we're feeling fancy or celebrating.

Something cultural/sporting you booked recently that you'd recommend: I recently enjoyed my first ice bath with 'The Wim Hof Method', and it really was invigorating. Although I was absolutely dreading it, I felt so alert and alive afterwards.

Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend: I listened to the new Travis album for the first time before Christmas, then went to see them at the Hammersmith Apollo. I was never a huge fan the first time round, however they were superb and that album has been a proper earworm for me ever since.

A hobby you'd like to cultivate: Guitar, guitar, guitar! My wife bought me one as a gift and despite me picking it up from time to time, it's proving tricky to maintain momentum.

A luxury that’s actually a necessity: Possibly a controversial one in the current era smartphones and smartwatches, but a TAG Heuer Monaco on my wrist - my one has been my familiar friend for many years. Not only a brilliant brand, but it brings back happy memories from my time working for them at LVMH.

Best luxury under £25: Molton Brown Ultra-Light Bai Ji Hydrator (although I think it's now £26!). It's worth every penny.

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