Hotel Chocolat is best known for making edible gifts and (thanks to the Velvetiser) incredible home hot chocolates, but I was surprised when they added a coffee machine to their lineup. The machine, called The Podster, is the result of yet another collaboration with Dualit. It’s compatible with Nespresso capsules, but the machine also launched alongside a line of Rabot Estate coffee pods, which claim to offer barista-quality brews, from home. These pods are recyclable with the rest of your home recycling, and come with a ‘Podcycler’ device that’s easy to get to grips with.
I tried the Hotel Chocolat The Podster coffee machine for two weeks, alongside a tasting selection of Rabot Estate coffees, to see if it’s a worthwhile investment as one of the best coffee machines on the market. It retails for £149.95 and currently only comes in one colour: charcoal.
Thinking of buying The Podster? Well, here’s what I thought in my Hotel Chocolat The Podster coffee machine review. It’s a good quality machine with some thoughtful features that make it a good rival for many of the best pod coffee machines, but I had a few issues with dripping, and would’ve liked if the design had been a more exact pairing to the Velvetiser.
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Buy The Podster direct at Hotel Chocolat, £149.95
The Hotel Chocolat The Podster is a relatively lightweight machine. Its heaviest design feature is the handle, which is sturdy and echoes the handle of the Velvetiser, also designed by Dualit. Hotel Chocolat sent me a tasting assortment of Rabot Estate Coffee pods, from their classic ‘The One’ to mellow ‘Cashmere’ and my personal favourite, the bright and fruity ‘Oh, Hello’, to try with the machine. Included with every Podster is a ‘Podcycler’, which is designed to make the aluminium Rabot Estate pods recyclable.
It’s slimline and quite deep, with the perfect dimensions for small kitchens that don’t have the space foe a bulkier machine.
Assembly instructions were minimal, but the machine slots together intuitively. It has a fluted plastic water container which elevates it from a more basic machine, and the same plastic can be found on the used pod container. I like that this is see-through, which makes it easy to see when you need to empty your machine.
There is an on/off switch at the side of The Podster, as well as two drink sizes to choose from at the front of the machine. That’s it for controls, it couldn’t be more simple.
Hotel Chocolat launched three mugs alongside the new coffee machine, called Hug, Chat, and Spark. I really enjoyed these mugs, which cost extra but really complete the look if you plan on using alongside a Velvetiser which has tall mugs that are perfect for a serving of hot chocolate. They are the perfect size for a latte, and have tactile designs that really complement the drinking experience.
To use The Podster, simply use the sturdy side handle to open the engraved slot at the top of the machine and drop your pod in. Pulling the lever down, which is a solid and satisfactory motion, locks the pod into place. Then it’s just a case of choosing between an espresso or a lungo shot of coffee. The pre-heat time sat at around the 8-second mark, which wasn’t long but also wasn’t the quickest of the pod coffee machines I’ve reviewed. The buttons are both soft-touch, with a flashing light that turns solid when the machine is ready to dispense coffee.
I first opted to make a lungo, and found that a little water dropped from the dispenser before the machine began to brew. This was a little disappointing, but it was followed by a two-second pre-dose that is perfect to develop the coffee flavour before it begins to extract. As expected, my coffee was hot and rich, with a thin layer of crema at the top of the drink. I did find that the coffee was a lot less strong by the end of the shot, which suggested to me that the pods are best suited for espresso, but I still enjoyed the taste and texture of my ‘The One’ house blend.
The espresso follows largely the same process, but I noted that some water still dripped into my glass before I pulled the shot. I did find that the intensity was a lot stronger, but the flavour was still great and the layer of crema was a lot thicker. When I positioned the machine under my kitchen cabinets, which is where I test appliances for prolonged periods of time, I found that the lever wouldn’t lift fully without hitting the underside of cabinets. I had to pull it out in order to add a pod, which got in the way of my daily use.
After my espresso had finished brewing, there was some more dripping that fell directly into the drip tray under the dispenser. This meant I needed to empty it regularly, but didn’t last more than ten seconds.
The Velvetiser is designed to make hot chocolate (which is what I tested it for in my Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser review), but when it comes to making a latte, it creates a thick foam that’s not too rigid and has heaps of body. It was perfect for making a consistently creamy coffee, and the matching handle looks the part when the machines are side-by-side. If you already own the Velvetiser in the shade Charcoal, you’re in luck. The podster only comes in this colour, which pairs with a charcoal Velvetiser. I have the white one, which does not look quite so compatible when sat side-by-side in the kitchen. This duo is perfect for making lattes at home though, or even the occasional mocha.
While the Velvetiser is all smooth lines and metal exteriors, the Podster is comparatively plastic and a lot more streamlined. The one design element that does tie them together is a lovely textured handle. However, it would’ve been nice to see a little more continuity between the two products.
The Podcycler comes included with every Hotel Chocolat machine, and it’s an innovation I’ve seen from Dualit in the past. The concept is simple but does involve a little extra work. The perk? You can stack your used coffee pods together and put them in the household recycling.
To use the Podcycler, I placed the used pods rim-side down on the bottom of the contraption and then pressed down using the top half. This pushes the pod inside-out, ejecting the used coffee grounds and leaving you with an empty aluminium shell. Give this a good rinse and stack the used pods together in order to put them through household recycling.
Is it as sustainable as using a bean-to-cup coffee machine? No. However, it’s a step in the right direction when compared to the legions of plastic pods on the market that claims to be recyclable, but require you to take them to sparsely-located recycling centres to get the job done.
While I was a little underwhelmed by the look, I still think that The Podster is a decent coffee machine. For one, it’s backed by a quality Dualit design, and it also boasts an impressive nine bars of pressure that worked perfectly with the Rabot Estate coffee pods’ selection of blends. I really enjoyed this coffee, which had heaps of flavour, and I also enjoyed using the Velvetiser in the place of a milk frother. However, I did wish that the Podster and Velvetiser had a more compatible design profile to look like a complete set on the kitchen counter, and the dripping was an issue that detracts from the quality feel of the machine.
In terms of price, the £149.95 cost is actually pretty reasonable. The Velvetiser retails for £110, which is well above the average price for the best milk frothers, so I was expecting a more pricey coffee machine from Hotel Chocolat. The Podster is similar in price to the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa, and a lot less expensive than the Grind Pod Coffee Machine, which has a similar lever-style design. It’s a decent value machine, especially for the 9 bars of pressure that come included.
Millie Fender is small appliances editor at Ideal Home. She reviews everything from coffee machines to air fryers from her own kitchen, meaning these tests have been carried out in the same conditions that you’ll be using the machine.
The Podster was kindly sent to Millie by Hotel Chocolat, and she tested it for two weeks before writing her review. This gave her the chance to test all of its functions as well as cleaning and check for any troubleshooting. While she prefers a frothy latte or an iced cappuccino, her partner is never running on less than three americanos, so the Hotel Chocolat The Podster was very thoroughly tested.
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Gone are the days of grey, uneven slabs with moss growing between them, now as with the rest of the home, we all want beautiful patio paving ideas – something sleek and sophisticated to reflect our personalities and the many styles of paving out there.
The right design could transform your garden to give you more space to entertain, enjoy time with the family and make the summer last longer. Inviting friends and family around becomes a pleasure if you have somewhere relaxing to sit. And there is no reason you can’t enjoy your new space into the colder months too with the addition of a fire pit, throws and a patio heater.
Small patio ideas are just as important and can transform your outside space, creating an outdoor room you didn’t know you had.
Patios are easy to look after and could add value to your home, check out our looks below to see if there is a style to suit you or view these patio ideas.
Image credit: RAK; Fashion Stone from £45 m2
Make your outdoor space feel like part of the main house by using the same paving throughout. It not only gives you a seamless look, it will open up to make both spaces feel bigger. The added benefit of not having a threshold means there is less risk of a trip hazard.
This natural stone look is hardwearing porcelain. In a linked space like this, think about your furniture choices and colour scheme, so the whole area blends together for a cohesive look.
‘How we use our outside space has changed dramatically in recent years.’ Says Abbas Youssefi, Director of Porcelain Superstore. ‘The garden has become an extension of the home, an exterior living space used for entertaining and unwinding. So creating a space that looks – and feels – part of the home has never been more important.’
Image credit: Quorn; Light Mist Porcelain Pavers, from £60 m2
If you don’t like the look of a large expanse of paving, mix it up with areas of gravel, not only will it give the space a different look, it will help with drainage too.
For a truly Mediterranean look choose white gravel and cream paving. Here large slabs create a stylish dining and seating area with more slabs used as ‘stepping stones’ around the flower beds and to create a path.
Choose colours that work well together, in this instance, the grey sofas, grey dining chairs and parasol with a white and metal dining table. As gravel is cheaper than pavers, this idea works as a cheap patio paving idea too.
Image credit: Tile Mountain
Paving slabs don’t have to be plain. Create your own unique design by teaming a decorative slab like these petal design pavers with plain ones to make a feature of different areas such as this dining area.
The same petal design has been used on the step to add to the overall look and make it stand out, which has the added benefit of making it less likely that people will trip up. This would work well as a small patio idea too.
Buy now: Hardblue Grey Decor Porcelain Tiles, £39.99 per m2, Tile Mountain
Image credit: Tile Mountain
Due to the technological advances and versatility of porcelain, it’s possible to have different looks rather than just plain square pavers, such as these wood-effect plank tiles which will give you a wooden deck effect but without the maintenance. It’s a good choice if you want a warmer look, if the garden is north-facing for example, and an ideal small patio idea.
Porcelain tiles are also resistant to water and staining, so no more labour-intensive pressure washing every spring.
‘With recent advances in technology, porcelain is now available in a huge range of textures, colours and sizes.’ Says Jo Oliver, Director of Stone & Ceramic Warehouse. ‘Porcelain is the perfect material for outside as it is virtually maintenance-free. It doesn’t fade in the sun or grow moss, and is anti-slip.’
Buy now: Nebraska Oak Wood Effect Outdoor Slabs, £41.95 per m2, Tile Mountain
Image credit: Mandarin Stone; Limestone flags, from £98.40
If you have an older, more traditional home, why not try classic cobblestones? These limestone cobbles are natural stone, so each one is different.
Here they have been blended with limestone flags to give a patchwork effect. It’s a great contrast to the main house and has an individual, classic look. It would be perfect for a courtyard too.
Buy now: Ballanstone Tumbled Outdoor Limestone Cobbles, from £119 per m2, Mandarin Stone
Image credit: Mandarin Stone
Terrazzo has been big news recently on floors, walls and even accessories. It’s a great small patio idea as it has small chips of colour that work well in a more compact space and will add more interest than a plain tile.
Buy now: Jagger Mid Grey Terrazzo-effect Outdoor Porcelain, from £58.80 per m2, Mandarin Stone
Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young
Natural sandstone is a classic paving idea for patios and paths and works well for traditional and country gardens. Sandstone comes in a variety of sizes and colours, so you can choose whatever pattern you wish, and comes with either a smooth or distressed finish.
As a natural stone it is durable, and cream or yellow sandstone will add a warm, honey colour that will blend perfectly with relaxed planting.
Image credit: Future PLC/Brent DarbyLink the house and garden
Limestone paving is a great choice for any style of house, it’s light grey tone suits most properties and again, as a natural stone it is hard-wearing and will look good for many years to come. Using the same stone as stepping stones on the lawn leads you towards the house, through the arch and links the two areas seamlessly.
Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd
Make the paving the start of your design. This contemporary patio is all about the hard surfaces. They create the paving, are used on top of the raised beds, and for a raised breakfast area too.
A cool grey and white colour scheme gives the space a contemporary feel, further enhanced by the sculptural planting. The water feature with a split face cladding is a lovely focal point.
Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young
If you want a rustic look, then these small distressed tiles are ideal. They are similar to traditional Norfolk clay pammets and would work really well as a small patio idea or as a cheap patio paving idea. The neutral colour means they would suit lots of schemes, it’s the perfect English country look.
‘There are two main types of tiles that are suitable for outdoor patio use. The first are natural stone tiles such as granite, limestone and slate, these are aesthetically pleasing but will require sealing when installed and can be costly. ‘ says Colin Lincoln-Evans, Buyer at Tile Mountain. ‘The second are porcelain tiles which are available in a wide choice of sizes, shapes and finishes, including some that replicate the look of natural stone, wood and even cobbles, and come in less traditional shapes such as planks with a wood effect finish. Porcelain tiles do not require sealing, but should be between 18-20mm in thickness and have an anti-slip rating of between R9 and R12.
‘If you are thinking of tiling your patio, remember that it needs to be durable and be able to withstand all weather conditions. You want to make sure that it will last you for years to come and you only want to do it once.’ says Kamila Swiatecka, Brand Manager at Tile Giant.
‘20mm outdoor porcelain has very good slip resistance, doesn’t fade, is frost proof and is algae and moss resistant, unlike natural paving or timber decking, which can be very difficult to maintain and keep in top tip condition.’
‘To keep costs down, consider the installation. Laying your tiles as stepping stones on grass or gravel is a good DIY solution, saving you money. However, If you opt for a fully tiled patio, we recommend using a professional, but consider a raised pedestal system as it will allow you to take your patio with you if you move. It’s also a good option if you are renting.’
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If you’re looking to access the equity you’ve built up in your home, it’s worthwhile researching all the alternatives to equity release before you commit to something like a lifetime mortgage, which could prove expensive.
From downsizing to taking in a lodger there are a number of alternatives that could not only improve your finances, but depending on your circumstances, give your retirement a boost too.
Selling a large family home and moving to a smaller, less expensive property is the cheapest way of releasing equity.
Downsizing may suit you if you relish a fresh start in a new home. However, Georgina Oxton, divisional manager for equity release at LV= says some people will find downsizing an emotional wrench. ‘Speaking to customers, what I frequently hear is that people don’t want to leave the home they’ve lived in for years and brought their children up in.’
You may also be disappointed with the amount of money you can release – in addition to all the costs of moving house, you may get less than you expect for your existing home or have to spend more on your new one.
Image credit: Future PLC/ Brent Darby
This is an interest-only mortgage over-55s can use to repay an existing loan, or any other purpose. Unlike lifetime mortgages you need to repay interest each month but you only repay the capital when you sell your home.
Will Hale, CEO of adviser Key says: ‘To take out a Retirement mortgage, you need to be able to pass affordability checks and prove that you can make the payments for the rest of your life – even if your partner passes away.’ Struggle with repayments and you could lose your home.
You could release equity by selling your home and renting a new one. This might give you a bit more financial wiggle room in the short term, however it’s not without risks. Will Hale explains: ‘The benefits are that you’re not responsible for the upkeep of the property and have the freedom to move without worrying about selling your home.’
‘However, you will also need to ensure that you have sufficient income or savings to cover your rent for as long as you live. If you run out of money, you’ll get state support but it may not cover your current home.’
You may not be able to agree a long-term tenancy either, making it harder to put down roots.
Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole
If you have a spare room why not consider renting it to a lodger? Each year you can earn up to £7,500 tax-free under the Rent a Room Scheme. ‘It’s not for everyone,’ says Oxton, ‘but if you are older it can be very helpful from a welfare point of view.’
If you’re considering equity release to carry out alterations or repairs to your home, it’s worth contacting your local authority to see if you are eligible for grants.
If money is tight it’s always worth checking you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to.
It’s always best to get expert advice before committing, so speak to your mortgage provider who will be able to offer advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
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