Spice Spring and Summer Weekend Breaks Spring and Summer are a great time to enjoy our Spice London weekend breaks. For 2016 we have lots to choose from including Narrow Boating, Cycling, Photography, Bunkhouses, The Bristol Balloon fiesta & Harbour Festivals, Summer Chill Outs and even a Bunkhouse Foraging weekend, plus the usual Walking and Sailing weekends. The only problem is deciding just which to do, here are some ideas to help you choose. For a great way to relax and de-stress a weekend narrow boat cruising along one of the many beautiful canals is hard to beat. The UK canals are a direct result of Britain's Industrial Revolution between 1750 and 1840, from then the railways and later the road network saw the decline of the canal network and many fell into disrepair. However in the 1960’s interest grew in their use for recreational use and many have been restored, today it’s hard to believe they weren't built for an industrial purpose. We have three narrow boat weekends, Starting from Gayton marina near Northampton on 15�� April, from Aldermaston marina in Berkshire on 27�� May & from Hilperton marina in Wiltshire on the 2ⁿ� September. These are a chill out and relax weekend with the odd lock to navigate, don’t worry the locks are very easy to master. Bristol hosts two world class events every year which shouldn’t be missed. The Harbour music festival has an amazing line-up, soul, reggae, jazz, funk and folk musicians, there really is something for every musical taste. In addition there are artists, circus acts, dancers and stalls plus lots to see including all kinds of sailing vessels. We are staying at the Thistle Grand which is a great base to exploring the harbour area where all the action take place starting 15�� June. The other event is the Balloon fiesta starting 12�� August, this is the largest event of its kind in Europe with over 150 hot air balloons taking off, it’s also famous for it’s night glows. This is a very popular Spice event and is likely to get booked very quickly. Our bunkhouse weekends have been extremely popular with you recently, they're a great way to relax and socialise with other Spice members whilst offering great value for money. We include breakfasts and at least one guided walk and usually an evening meal or BBQ . They are very much a muck in weekend which is all part of the fun so don’t expect tea & coffee to be made for you on this one! For something a bit different we are foraging for our food, don’t worry we have an expert on hand to identify any dodgy looking mushrooms picked, this event is near Dorking in Surrey for June. In July we are off to the beautiful Chilterns for a rustic bunkhouse experience, Saturday evening we have a summer BBQ planned in the garden. Our Summer Bunkhouse weekend in Swansea (August) was an instant sellout with 17 of you on a wait list, not to disappoint we are running it again two weeks later! Finally in September we are off the the picturesque Isle of Wight which offers some great walking, cycling and stunning scenery.
Cycling is a brilliant way to get out and see the countryside. Our cycle rides are at a fairly leisurely pace on mostly flat tracks or quiet roads but you do need to be reasonable fit or have cycled a bit before. You can bring your own bike or you can rent one for the weekend. In April we are off to the New Forest staying in the town of Lyndhurst, on Saturday we will be cycling through the forest towards the sea to enjoy the views. On Sunday we have an easy day cycling a disused railway track. In May we are exploring the area around the lovely city of Bath, on Saturday we cycle along the canal passing a series of locks and into Bath for lunch. On Sunday we head along the canal and take in some stunning villages and the market town of Bradford-on-Avon. In June we are cycling in the beautiful Cotswolds. The emphasis on both weekends is upon a social leisurely ride, so please leave the racing Lycra at home! If you want to improve you photography skills how about joining us for one of our weekends designed to do just that. First up in April is Cinque Terre in Italy which is a stunning location our photo expert Steve is on hand to offer tuition and tips, you do need to have a SLR or a good quality camera which allows manual adjustments (an iphone isn’t suitable). In May we are off to Woolacombe on the North Devon coast, a bit nearer home but another great location to improve your skills. Finally in June we are off to Bled in Slovenia with it’s stunning mountains, lakes and iconic church on Bled island. If you cannot take stunning photo’s here there really is no hope for you! Sailing is also a popular event in Spice, for a number of years we have teamed-up with Encompass sailing. They have two yachts Kelana is moored in Chichester marina which gives good access to the Solent, a safe and large area allowing many passage options including sailing the spectacular Jurassic coast to Weymouth and also the option of an exciting cross channel sail to Cherbourg or St Vaast in France. Their other yacht Delphini, is moored in Malta which allows for a sunny relaxed sail around the island, it’s Northerly sister Gozo and a warm swim. Whatever your sailing experience or none at all Encompass will ensure you get the most from your weekend. Our sailing weekends usually starts around Easter and end in October, take a look at our website for dates. Our Walkwise walking weekends are always a firm favourite with Spice members, just ask any member who has enjoyed one of their weekends. They are also very social and a great way to make new Spice friends. This Spring we have walks in the Lake District, Cornwall, Hadrians Wall, Devon, Wales, The Cotswolds, Snowdonia and the Dorset Coast, see or web site.
Hello Everyone!
Dianne’s Wee Bit
Welcome to our Spring edition of the Spice London Newsletter 2016 A big welcome to all of our new Spice members who joined at the start of the year. If you have still to book your first event but are not sure what to do or have any questions just give us a call at the Spice office. You may also want to drop into one of our local club nights and have a chat with your Spice host and the other members who will give you a few ideas. We also run a monthly New Members Meet & Mingle at Champagne Charlie’s in Central London, which is a great way to get started, you do need to book this one as a buffet supper is included. This summer Spice will be celebrating its 35�� anniversary when Spice Manchester was formed, the Spice London group is a youngster at a mere 23 years. Back in those days there was no Internet, no mobile phones and we had a discussion to decide if we needed email! Quite a bit has changed but the idea behind Spice hasn’t, it has always been about making new friends whilst enjoying our events. We couldn’t let 35 years pass without marking the occasion and so we are off to celebrate with a National Spice ball at the 4 star Queens hotel in Leeds. This is going to be a fantastic evening but I am sure Spice London members will want to make a weekend of it as overnight accommodation is available, see our web site for full details, we have already sold lots of tickets. It looks as though spring will soon be here and as our long term members know some of our outdoor events are seasonal and these are back in the program, lookout for our cycling and sailing weekends. Recently it seems many members have gone bunkhouse bonkers as these offer great value social weekend breaks. Other weekend events to watch out for are our National Center Parcs weekend in June which is always great fun with 2 big parties and this year by popular demand we are running our dastardly Spice challenge on Sunday. We have also added three Narrow boat weekends, these are a great way to relax and de-stress with the company of a few Spice members, if you have never tried it don’t worry navigating the locks is very easy and all part of the fun. Our Bristol Harbour festival (July) and Bristol Balloon fiesta (August) are also back in the program, these received great feedback last year. A new event for this year is Surfing in the Gower for August, so lets go “Catch A Wave”, this looks to be lots of fun! There are of course lots of Walkwise Weekends to choose from including Sussex, Shropshire, Snowdonia, Devon/Cornwall, The Lake District, The Cotswolds, Derbyshire, Pembrokeshire and Yorkshire, wow that pretty much covers the whole country! We have a number of unusual events over the next three months which shouldn’t be missed. In April we are off to investigate the Crime Museum, and the Hippodrome for a Suspiciously Elvis Dinner. For the adrenaline junkies we are Mud Buggy Racing and White Water Rafting in the Lee valley. In May we are off to Brighton for the vintage commercial vehicles run which sounds fun and we are back at the Hippodrome for a Ratpack Dinner in Vegas. Our beginners Pottery workshop was very popular last time we ran and so we are throwing some clay and making a few more pots. Why not try Canadian Canoeing in Kent, a fun way to explore the river. In June we are Foraging for our food in Surrey, having a small flutter at the Epsom Derby and off to see Rod Stewart in Cardiff. More Canadian Canoeing along the River Wey and a sailing taster day. Lots of fun to choose from this spring and we hope to see you soon.
Have fun on the events… Dianne
Coming Events – April 2016 Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
www.spicelondon.co.uk T: 01276 479253 E: dianne@spicelondon.co.uk
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Meet & Eat Gem of Kent in Maidstone
Borough Market Stroll
Mud Buggy Racing at Mud Mania
1 April
2
Crime Museum Uncovered & Lunch Comedy - Pub supper and Tattershall Castle
Social & Find Out More Evening Central London
4
Spice U40 American Pool Social Night at 1920
5
6
Early Dine Navarro's Best Tapas in Town
7 Meet & Eat at Cau, T. Wells
Theatre - The War of The Worlds Social & Find Out More Evening Bromley The Beatles in London Tour
11
12
13
Indoor Hockey
Social & Find Out More Evening St Albans
Social & Find Out More Evening Sevenoaks Spice Dines - Thai Pinto Leatherhead
18
19
Spice London Book Club - April - London
8
Badminton
Spice Dines San Lorenzo Wimbledon
10
Imperial War Museum Duxford Air Museum
Pitsford Ramble
Meet and Eat Pub Social - The Glamorgan Croydon Sevenoaks Shuffle at Oaks Spice Indian Restaurant
Sunday Roast at Marcus Wareing at Tredwells Unique Wolf Experience Walk Wildlife Photography Exhibit & Lunch NHM Zipworld Velocity Ultimate Zipline
Hippodrome Suspiciously Elvis & Dinner Moroccan Feast Dining and Belly Dancing Spice U40 - Ice Skating And Drinks
Italian Dinner at Sopranos & Live Piano Bar
Spring Walk Hampstead Vintage Wine Festival with Laithwaites
Social & Find Out More Evening Richmond
Latin Krazy Salsa Dancing and Tapas Supper
Tour of Spencer House & Afternoon Tea
Sailing Weekend around the Solent Walking Weekend Arundel, West Sussex and South Downs 16 17
Social & Find out More Evening Chelmsford
21
String Quartet, Opera Matinee Lunch Sarastro
MG Sports Car Day at Brooklands in Surrey
Tate Britain & Lunch
15
Badminton
Strawberry Hill House Tour and pub lunch
9
St Moritz Swiss Dining or Meat or Cheese
Brighton Social at Bom-Bane's Cafe/Restaurant
20
Soho - Roots of the Swinging Sixties
Climbing the Longstone Pinnacle
Spice East Mids Spring Sleepover Party
14
Cocktails Vintage Style on a Tube, in a Tube Station
Spice U40 - Spring Beerfest at the Bavarian Beerhouse
Supper & Social Olio Italian Chelmsford
London Eye and Thames River Cruise
Friday Night Comedy Great Queen Street
Badminton
Royal London Pub Walk and Quiz
Spanish Tapas & Pub Social - Lobos Borough
3
22
Clay Pigeon Shooting in Dartford, Kent Sunday Lunch at Gordons Wine Bar & Two Temple Place Exhibition White Water Rafting Lee Valley
Back to Nature Bushcraft Weekend Cycling Weekend - New Forest Narrow Boat Weekend - Gayton Marina, Northampton North Wales Hostel Walking and Social Weekend Serenity Weekend Discovery Your Inner Self Walking Weekend Ballachulish and Glencoe Walking Weekend Snowdonia Mountains and Coast 23 24 Meet and Mingle New Members Champagne Charlies Sailing Introductory Taster Day
Cocktails, Music from the 70's to 90's Dancing Golf Break Telford Hotel and Golf Resort Meet and Eat at The Bakers Arms
Saturday Guided Walk - Toys Hill, Westerham Saturday Night Dining at The Pig's Ears Saturday Night Shuffle Sherlock Holmes Museum + After Tea Shuffle Jamie's Italian, St Albans
Ain't Nothin But the Blues & Lunch Banqueting House and Lunch at Cote Fine Dining at Chapter One Greenwich Naval College and Maritime Museum Stroll Industrial Heritage Walk of Chelmsford The Big Abseil Wine Tour Tasting & A Tea at Kingscote Estate
Italy Cinque Terre Photography Tour - 4 Night Break Arrochar and Loch Lomond Bargain Break
Coming Events – April /May 2016 Monday 25
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Indoor Hockey
Live Music & Drinks - Dion Bar
Badminton
Friday Night Boogie on Down at Ruby Blues
Historic and Secret Clerkenwell
Archery at Groombridge Place
Comedy Italian Supper Tattershall Castle
Lunch & Free Flowing Prosecco Hispaniola
Funkynation at Ronnie Scotts
Motorbike Off Road Experience
Spice U40 - Speak Easy Cocktails At Callooh Callay
Murder Mystery Trail Covent Garden
26
Tony Tobin Gourmet Dining Reigate
27
Social & Find Out More Evening West Sussex Spring BeerFest at Bavarian Beerhouse
28
Social & Find Out More Evening U40 Swing, Motown and Dinner at Sarastros
29
30
Social & Find Out More Evening Guildford
Tour BBC Broadcasting House & Lunch
Theatre Jersey Boys
2
3
4
5
Bistro Live Milton Key
Relax, it’s
Day Bank Holiday
9
Dinner and Champagne Cocktail Winter Garden
10
Regent Canal Easy Stroll and Floating Chinese Dinner
Cook Your Own Curry
U40 Fun Game of Ping Pong at Bounce
Social & Find Out More Evening Central London
Spice U40 Meet And Eat – Zédel
11
12
13
Social & Find Out More Evening Sevenoaks Theatre - Motown The Musical
Social & Find Out More Evening Richmond Wine Bar Social at the Cork & Bottle
Hippodrome - Ratpack In Vegas and Dinner
Cycling for Fun - Royal London Bike Tour
Saturday Night Social and Dancing at The Aviary Bar
Imperial War Museum Visit and Lunch Western Style Trail Riding in the New Forest
Sailing Weekend around the Solent 15
Brooklands - The 1940s Relived
Meet & Eat Turtle Bay Crawley
Social & Find out More Evening Upminster
Cultural Tour of Apsley House & Wellington Arch & Lunch
14
Badminton
Social & Find Out More Evening St Albans
London to Brighton Vintage Commercial Vehicle Run
Canary Wharf Walk & Turkish Lunch
The View from the Shard - London
Tunbridge Wells Social Fuggles
Dorking Social and Meal at Viva Italian Indoor Hockey
Social & Find Out More Evening Bromley
Lunch and Jazz at Wharf Waterside
Sailing Cross Channel Race - Cowes to St Vaast Ambleside Bank Holiday Bunk Weekend Walking Weekend Hadrian's Wall and Gilsland Spa Walking Weekend Plymouth, South Devon and Cornish Coasts Walking Weekend Spring into Windermere and Ambleside Welsh Camping Long Weekend 6 7 8
Badminton
Fun Pub Quiz Central London
1 May
Greek Party Dining Live Music - Soho Chateaubriand or Lobster and Bubbly at The Crazy Bear Fitzrovia Drinks with a View - St Georges Hotel
MoonWalk London Spice Team Steward Racing at Uttoxeter The Human League Comedy - Pub supper and Tattershall Castle Spies + Deception Bletchley Park Visit Stonehenge Sunset Tour Try The Wines at New Hall Vineyards
Afternoon Tea at Ashdown Park Hotel and County Club Beginners Pottery Workshop at Merton Abbey Mills Pottery Benjamin Franklin House Tour & Lunch Sunday Brunch at Hotel Du Vin Lunch + Stroll Belvedere Holland Park
Fitness Adventure Weekend Horse Riding Weekend for Beginners and Improvers Sailing Weekend around Malta See Glasgow - Cultural and Social Break Walking Weekend Derbyshire's Dales and Eastern Peaks Walking Weekend Sidmouth and the East Devon Coast
Coming Events – May / June 2016 Monday 16
Tuesday 17
Wednesday 18
Live Jazz The Archduke, Near Waterloo Kensington Palace in The Orangery " What is British Fashion"
23
Spice London Book Club - May - London
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Badminton
Break The Code Walking Challenge
Bavarian Night - White Asparagus Season
Easy Guided Walk Hainault Forest
Live Music and Dinner at Caffe Concerto
Beginners' Climbing Taster Session Kent
Fun on Bikes - Lee Valley Park, Herts
19
Cocktails Vintage Style on a Tube, in a Tube Station Meet and Eat (with Jazz) at the Woodman pub, Ide Hill Theatre - Funny Girl - Starring Sheridan Smith WAIT LIST
Social & Find out More Evening Croydon Spice U40 - Social & Live Music
20
21
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club
24
25
26
27
Sounds Familiar Music Quiz Party Join the Spice
Badminton
Friday Night Comedy at Tattershall Castle
Scandinavian Supper Nordic Bar String Quartet and Opera Cabaret and Dinner at Sarastro
30
Social & Find Out More Eve U40
31
1 June
Theatre - Curious Incident of the dog
2
Social & Find Out More Evening Guildford
It’s
Summer has arrived!
Mind Management
Meet and Mingle Evening for New Members Champagne Charlies
Spice U40 - St Pauls Scavenger, Photo Tennis - Henry VIII Style - Hampton Court
National Gallery & Afternoon Tea
Tower of London with Yeoman Guided Tour
Bank Holiday Shuffle Meal - London Celebrity "Look Alike" Sleepover Party
Canadian Canoeing along the River Medway, Tonbridge to East Peckham
Hippodrome - The Eastcoast Boys
Lunch Jazz Ronnie Scotts Jive Aces
Spanish Tapas at Pinchos, Chelmsford
The Big Abseil - 200 Feet Straight Down
Victoria & Albert M
Chelsea Physic Garden
Sailing Cross Channel to the Cherbourg Peninsula Bank Holiday Narrowboat Weekend - Aldermaston Ilfracombe and North Devon Bank Holiday Walking and Social Weekend Secret Ridges of Wales Bank Holiday Walking Weekend Walking Weekend Evesham North Cotswolds Walking Weekend Tenby and Pembrokeshire Coast Walking Weekend on IIkley Moor Woolacombe Coastal Photography Weekend 3 4 5
Badminton Meet and Eat at Prezzo, T Wells
Medieval Banquet
Cycling Weekend - Bath Drawing and Watercolour Weekend Sailing Weekend Poole, Jurassic Coast and Weymouth 28 29
Indoor Hockey Central London
Mediterranean Dining Hitchin
1940's Americana Drinks, Live Entertainment Social & Find Out More Evening Central London
Social & Find Out More Evening Bromley
Clerkenwell Guided Walk
Italian Dining Freddie Mercury - Party
Monday Night Comedy Tattershall Castle
7
8
9
10
Kensington Palace - The Story Behind Fashion Rules Restyled
Badminton
Royal Opera House - Ballet The Winter’s Tale
Social & Find Out More Evening St Albans
Social & Find Out More Evening Upminster
Visit to Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium and Cream Tea
Cycling Weekend - Cotswolds Wilderness and Foraging Bunkhouse Weekend - Dorking 11 12
Fun Game of Ping Pong at Bounce Indoor Hockey
Tour of Wimbledon Tennis / Museum
Epsom Derby Festival Day and After Party
Segway Trek Segway Tennis Experience
Georgian Dining Academy at Simpson's Tavern
Sunday Lunch at West Thirty Six Notting Hill
Foraging Foray in the Woods - Dorking
Swing, Motown Dinner Sarastros
6
22
Spice U40 - Friday Night - The Road House
Borough Market Morning Stroll
Clay Pigeon Shooting in Findon, W Sussex
Canadian Canoeing along the River Wey
Free Flowing Bubbly Afternoon Tea overlooking Thames
Reigate Caves Tour and Lunch - Reigate Rod Stewart Concert and 1 Night Accom Cardiff Spice Dines with Champagne at Langan's Brasserie
HMS Belfast and Hearty Breakfast Unique Sailing on the Fabulous Tall Ship Mercedes Thames Unique Wolf Experience with Walk
Social & Find Out More Evening Richmond Sailing Weekend around the Solent
Coming Events – June 2016 Monday 13
Tuesday 14
Wednesday 15
Theatre – Show Boat Social & Find Out More Evening – Sevenoaks
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Badminton Herts
Dinner Shuffle Strada, Richmond
Dinner Shuffle St Albans - L'Italiana
Latin Krazy Salsa Dancing and Tapas Supper
Sunday Brunch at Hotel Du Vin in Brighton
London Zoo Late Night
16
17
Little Bay – Opera Evening – Croydon
18
Entertaining Islington Guided Tour Meet and Mingle New Members Champagne Charlies
Thai Dinner Shuffle at Mai Thai in Wimbledon Unique Dining and Entertainment at Circus
21
22
23
Indoor Hockey
Cocktails Vintage Style on a Tube
Badminton
Spice London Book Club - June - London
24
Vine to Wine Tour and Tasting Herts
Caribbean Beach Shack Social and Food at the Rum Kitchen
Social & Find Out More Evening Guildford
28
29
30
Dine and Social Harpenden - Chef Peking
Live Music & Drinks - Dion Bar, St Pauls
Badminton -
Supper and Social Cote Reigate
Meet and Eat at The Old Windmill near Hanningfield, Essex
Social & Find Out More Eve U40
Social & Find Out More Evening West Sussex Theatre – Guys and Dolls
The Corrs Live at Epsom Downs Race Night
White Water Rafting Lee Valley Wild Orchid and Flower Walk in Chafford Gorges in Essex
Slovenia Photography Tour Sailing Weekend around Malta Center Parcs Sherwood Weekend Walking Weekend Beddgelert Snowdonia 25 26 Behind the Scenes Guided Tour of Transport Museum Depot
Meet and Eat at Bills Restaurant, Sevenoaks
Friday Lunch HMP Brixton Restaurant
27
Visit to Kenwood House and Lunch at The Brew House
Sailing Introductory Taster Day Spice Dines Out Carlo's Trattoria, Guildford
20
19
Canadian Canoeing & Camping Weekend Wye Valley Gordons Wine Bar Saturday Lunch Social Indoor Skydiving Experience New You Boot Camp Fitness Day Richmond Park
Dim Sum Sunday at Dim T - Unlimited Dim Sum Lunch Italian Shuffle at Casa Mia in Hampton Court, Surrey London Royal Parks Murder Mystery Trail Outdoor Archery Hertfordshire String Quartet and Opera Cabaret and Dinner at Sarastro
Saturday Night Funkynation at Ronnie Scotts
Gower Walking and Social Weekend Walking Weekend Bournemouth Hampshire and Dorset Coast
Spice members stocking up on bacon sandwiches! Wilderness Bunkhouse Weekend near Dorking in February Sailing Round The Island Yacht Race
Our website has all of our latest events for June
Spice Preview & Club Nights
get involved, find out more & meet local members Central London
U40 (for under 40’s) - Central London
The Slug & Lettuce 5 Lisle Street, WC2H 7BG
Champagne Charlie’s, 17 The Arches Villiers Street, WC2N 6NG
Friday 1�� Apr, 6�� May & 3�� Jun Spice are in the upstairs section of the pub Arrive 7:00pm. Presentation 7:00 & 8:00pm
Thursday 28th Apr, 26th May & 30th Jun Spice table look for Spice sign Arrive 7:00pm. Presentation at 7:15pm
Richmond, West London
Sevenoaks, Kent
The Cricketers, The Green Richmond, TW9 1LX Thursday 14th Apr, 12th May & 9th Jun Spice have a reserved area upstairs look for the Spice sign Arrive 7:30pm. Presentation 7.45pm
Croydon, South London The Spreadeagle 39-41 Katherine Street Croydon CR0 1NX Thursday 19th May Spice have a reserved table in the bar, look for the Spice sign Arrive 7:30pm. Presentation 7:45pm
St Albans, Herts Slug & Lettuce 13 Victoria Street, St Albans, AL1 3JJ
The Black Boy 13 Bank Street, Sevenoaks, TN13 1UW Wednesday 13th Apr, 11th May & 15th Jun Meet in the bar, ask for Spice table or look for the Spice sign Arrive 7:30pm. Presentation at 7:45pm
Bromley, Kent The Richmal Crompton 23 Westmoreland Place, Bromley, BR1 1DS Thursday 7th Apr, 5th May & 2nd Jun Spice table, look for the Spice sign Arrive 7:30pm. Presentation at 7:45pm
Upminster, Essex The Thatched House St Mary’s Lane, Upminster, RM14 3LT
Wednesday 13th Apr, 11th May & 8th Jun Spice have a reserved table in the bar, look for the Spice sign Arrive 8:00pm. Presentation 8:15pm
Thursday 12th May Spice table, look for the Spice sign Arrive/Presentation at 8:00pm
Guildford, Surrey
Chelmsford, Essex
The Weyside, Millbrook, Guildford, GU1 3XJ Friday 29th Apr, 27th May & 24th Jun Meet in bar, look for the Spice sign Arrive 8:00pm. Presentation 8:15pm
Horsham, West Sussex The Greets Inn 47 Friday St, Warnham Horsham, RH12 3QY Wednesday 27th Apr & 29th Jun Meet in bar, Ask for Spice area or look for the Spice sign Arrive 7:30pm. Presentation 7:45pm
The Slug & Lettuce 1-5 Annonay Way, Chelmsford, CM2 6LF Thursday 14th Apr & 9th Jun Spice table, look for the Spice sign Arrive/Presentation at 8:00pm
Our regular Club & Preview nights are a great way for members to catch up with each other and socialise over a drink in relaxed surroundings. There is no need to book and there is no charge, you only pay for your own drinks on the night. They are also a great way for prospective members to find out more about Spice and meet a few existing members. A Spice coordinator will be there to welcome you, make some introductions and also give a short talk about how Spice works.
Getting the most from Spice - top tips
Sports, come along keep fit & have fun!
● Check the web site regularly, we update on a daily basis, make sure you don’t miss that “must do event”
Our regular Sports nights are a great way to meet and socialise with other members as well as keeping fit, we usually have a drink in the bar or at a local pub afterwards! Usually there is no need to book just turn-up (please check the main website entry first). A Spice member will be there to organise everyone so players are mixed & matched and that everyone gets a turn with other Spice members of their own ability. These regular events are great fun so do come along as we are always looking for new players.
● Some events are seasonal booking early means you won’t be disappointed by an event selling out. ● Try something different, you never know you may surprise yourself and love it! ● Use the transport share list if you find it difficult to get to an event, most Spice members are more than happy for a bit of company on a long trip. ● Go on the wait list, we do get members cancelling bookings and we can often arrange for extra slots. ● Don’t forget Spice UK has some brilliant holidays, check the web site regularly. ● Remember Spice is a network, one big family, you can attend events organised by all the other Spice Groups. ● Call the office if you have any questions about an event, or are not sure about something, we are happy to help. ● Say hi to the Spice host when arriving, they will introduce you to the group and be included. ● Check the write-up, although equipment is provided, you may need to wear suitable clothing or footwear, this is especially true for our guided walks.
Local Spice Coordinators We have a team friendly local Spice coordinators who would love to meet you and find out what kind of events you like doing. Our coordinators run our local club nights and also some of our social events. Helping us run our club nights, we have Ashley running Richmond, Croydon & our U40 evenings and Pam runs St Albans.
A big thanks to both of them If your new to Spice and have some questions or want a few ideas why not drop into one of our local club nights, look out for them and say Hi.
Tell the world… Had fun on a Spice event, well don’t keep it to yourself, tell you family, your friends, your work mates, tell the world, we're on Facebook and Twitter.
Badminton - Hertfordshire Welwyn Garden City Thursday night from 8pm to 10pm Gosling Sports Park, AL8 6XE Meet on courts 1 & 2 £6 - includes equipment hire 7th 14th 21st & 28th April 5th 12th 19th & 26th May 2nd 9th 16th 23rd & 30th June These sessions are for those who can already play, sorry we cannot teach you.
Indoor Hockey - Central London University of London Union Malet St. WC1E 7HY Tuesday night meet at 7:45pm Sports Hall Basement Reception £5 12�� & 26�� April 10�� & 24�� May 7�� & 21�� June
Event Photo’s We are always looking out for any great photo of you and your Spice friends enjoying our events. Don’t keep them to yourself, post them on social media and let us know or email them to us.
Meet and Eat at Gem of Kent in Maidstone
Date: Friday 1st April 2016 Place: Gem of Kent, 62 High St, Maidstone, Kent (ME14 1SR) Ask for the Spice table on arrival 7:30pm Cost: £2 Includes: Booking fee and Spice host Extras: Food, drink and service charge Gem of Kent is a Turkish and Kurdish Restaurant offering the finest dishes of both cultures. The restaurant has authentic Anatolian decoration throughout and is a perfect place for relaxed dining. Dishes are prepared freshly by hand on site and cooked to order by using the finest ingredients. Sounds delicious!
Date: Place:
Borough Market Saturday Morning Stroll
Saturday 2nd April 2016 The Globe Pub, 8 Bedale Street, London (SE1 9AL) Outside The Globe Pub 9:15am £6 Includes: Stroll around Borough Market, Spice Host Extras: Refreshments This morning we will enjoy a lovely stroll around the famous Borough Food Market which is now one of the largest food markets in the world. Our meet time for the stroll is 9.15am so as to beat the crowds so you can see the stalls at their very best with wonderful displays of fresh produce. This is a great time to take pictures so bring your camera/phone along if you want to capture some nice shots. This is also the best time to shop so bring a shopping bag if you want to buy some delicious produce for the weekend. After our stroll we will stop for refreshments (own cost) and socialise.
Date: Place: Cost:
Crime Museum Uncovered Exhibition and Lunch
Saturday 2nd April 2016 Linbury Gallery, Museum of London, 150 London Wall, London (EC2Y 5HN) outside main entrance, 10:45am £34 entrance & Lunch, £18 entrance only Includes: ticket to Crime Museum Uncovered Exhibition, 1 course lunch & service charge, Spice host. We cannot refund on tickets unless we resell your ticket. Extras: Drinks For the first time ever, never-before-seen objects from the Metropolitan Police’s Crime Museum are on public display in this major exhibition at the Museum of London. Since its establishment by serving officers in the mid-1870s, the Crime Museum has previously only been open to police professionals and invited guests. Now, using original evidence from this extraordinary collection, we unlock real-life case files to take you on an uneasy journey through some of the UK’s most notorious crimes from Dr Crippen to the Krays, the Great Train Robbery to the Millennium Dome diamond heist. After our visit to the exhibition, we will have time to see other parts of the museum before going to a nearby Pizza.
Saturday Night Comedy - Pub Supper and Tattershall Castle
Date: Saturday 2nd April 2016 Place: Theodore Bullfrog, 26 John Adam Street, London (WC2N 6HL) Ask for Spice Table 6:15pm Cost: £32 ticket and supper Includes: comedy ticket, pub one course meal, Spice host and booking fee Extras: Drinks This is one of the very best comedy nights in London, we get lots of repeat bookings for this evening so why not treat yourself to a ticket. The Comedy is held on the Tattershall Castle boat, which is permanently moored at Victoria Embankment. The 130 seats sell out and this is a very popular Spice night out so do book early to secure you place as we have a limited amount of tickets. Many of comedy’s greatest stars have played or started their careers here including Graham Norton, Jerry Sadowitz, Dylan Moran, Mark Thomas, Harry Hill, Michael McIntyre and Ross Noble.
Spanish Tapas and Pub Social - Lobos Borough High Street
Date: Saturday 2nd April 2016 Place: Lobos, 14 Borough High Street, London (SE1 9QG) Ask for Spice Table 7:15pm Cost: £29.99 Includes: sharing tapas meal and service and Spice host Extras: Drinks Our Spanish Tapas evenings are very popular in Spice so we are off to an upmarket new restaurant for us called Lobos, in Borough High Street. Lobos meat and Tapas is born from the love of excellent food, good wine and all things Spanish. With such tasty dishes on offer such as Herb Crusted Lamb, Lobo bun (Pork Patty), Croquetas (Ham, Chorizo and Smoked Bacon), Seafood, Chicken Cheese and Salad. We will choose a selection of tapas for us to share to suit most tastes.
Spanish Tapas at Pinchos, Chelmsford
Date: Saturday 2nd April 2016 Place: 3a Baddow Road, Chelmsford, Essex (CM2 0BX) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm £26 Tonight we are heading to Pinchos serving authentic Spanish Tapas in Chelmsford. This traditional Tapas restaurant has an informal atmosphere where the emphasis is on sociable eating, using seasonal Spanish and local ingredients and culinary passion. We will be sharing a mixed tapas menu so you have the opportunity to try several different Tapas dishes as well as Paella. If you are vegetarian there will be vegetarian options. Our dining out evenings in different restaurants are always very enjoyable and a great way to meet with other Spice members in the local area.
Supper and Social at Olio Italian Restaurant in Chelmsford
Date: Saturday 2nd April 2016 Place: 37 New London Road, Chelmsford, Essex (CM2 0ND) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £25 Includes: 2 Course Pizza or Pasta meal and Dessert, Service Charge, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Olio Italian Restaurant in Chelmsford is a family owned and run business by the Gremi family who offer you a warm welcome and relaxed dining experience. It offers excellent traditional and authentic Italian food with a great selection of freshly prepared dishes to choose from.
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Mud Buggy Racing at Mud Mania near Crawley, West Sussex
Sunday 3rd April 2016 Mud Mania, Staplefield, West Sussex (RH17 6AP) Reception at Mud Mania 11:30am £54 Includes: Tea/coffee on arrival, protective gear (helmet, overalls and goggles), safety briefing, demonstration of the buggies, practice laps, 4 races, medals for winners and Spice Host/fee Thoroughly exhilarating and great fun, the 400cc engines have plenty of power, combined with fully automatic transmission in a chassis with a full roll cage and all-round suspension. These purpose built mud buggies are very simple to drive – right foot down on the juice and go go go! And occasionally left foot to stop! The races are run under Grand Prix rules. Four buggies race at a time, you’ll be lined up on the grid, have several gentle practice laps, then back on the grid, the flag drops and you’re off! Your own adrenalin filled roller coaster ride! Battling it out head to head round the purpose built circuit, skidding round the corners, over bumps and lumps, you’ll feel like a rally driver whizzing round twists and turns until after a number of circuits you see the chequered flag!
Soho - Roots of the Swinging Sixties
Date: Sunday 3rd April 2016 Place: St Anne's Church, Wardour St, London (W1D 6AF) In front of the churchyard 1:45pm to 4:15pm Cost: £12 Includes: 2 hour guided tour Our walk takes you around Soho visiting the important locations that played a big part in the roots of the swinging sixties. We'll take you to the birth place of British rock and roll, the street that turned the fashion world on its head and also to the sites of the various influential discotheques and clubs of the day. We'll be showing you some evocative and historic photos of the time and you'll hear many anecdotes, some personal to Barrie, about those amazing few years that helped shape the cultural landscape not only of London - but the rest of the world too. It'll take around two hours and we finish in Chinatown where we will stop at one of the many bars to have a drink to round off the evening.
Strawberry Hill House Tour and pub lunch
Date: Sunday 3rd April 2016 Place: 268 Waldegrave Rd, Twickenham (TW1 4ST) Strawberry Hill House 12:05pm Cost: £33 not NT member, £28 with NT membership card Includes: Self–guided tour of house and 1 course pub lunch at The Alexander Pope, Extras: Audio guide (optional), drinks, dessert if desired th Join Spice today as we visit one of England’s most elegant and eccentric Gothic houses created by Horace Walpole in the 18 Century. Our tickets are for a timed visit at 12.20 pm so please ensure you arrive in time. Following the approx. 1.5 hour selfguided tour we will walk towards the river to enjoy a pub lunch at the Alexander Pope pub (formerly the Popes Grotto). Here we will have a one course meal with choices such as Sunday roast, beef burgers, bangers and mash and steak and ale pie on offer. There is a discount if you are a National Trust Member, please bring along your card on the day.
String Quartet, Opera Matinee and Lunch at Sarastro
Date: Sunday 3rd April 2016 Place: Sarastros, 126 Drury Lane, London (WC2B 5QG) Ask for Spice table 1:30pm Cost: £42.50 Includes: 3 Course Meal, Service, Live music & opera, Host Extras: Drinks Sarastro, named for a character in Mozart’s Magic Flute is known as ‘the show after the show’. The restaurant in Drury Lane is a rich tapestry of flamboyant artwork, gilt furniture and wall mounted opera boxes, which provide a spectacular view of the interior. On Sunday lunchtimes Sarastro really comes into its own with magical live performances by a string quartet and opera singers. Today we’ll indulge in a delicious three course set menu whilst being entertained by singers not just from London's Opera Houses but from all over the world too. They perform some of the most popular arias that are instantly recognisable and loved by us all. We will be having a special Opera Cabaret menu which includes shared starters of Hummus, Tzatsiki, Cheese Borek, Mushroom filled puff pastris and sautéed aubergine. There is a choice of main course such as Lamb, Roast Duck, Salmon, Chicken, Vegetarian Pancake or Sarastro Vegetarian Penne Pasta. There is a dessert of either Panna Cotta or Fresh Fruit and Coffee.
Tour of Spencer House and Afternoon Tea
Date: Sunday 3rd April 2016 Place: 27 St James's Place, London, SW1A 1NR (SW1A 1NR) Meet inside entrance of Spencer House 1pm to 5:30pm Cost: £28 Includes: Guided Tour of Spencer House and Afternoon Tea, service charge Enjoy a one hour guided tour around one of the most magnificent private palaces in London, Spencer House. It was built in 1756-66 for John, first Earl Spencer, an ancestor of Diana, Princess of Wales (1961-97) and has now been fully restored to its full splendour of its late eighteenth century appearance after a ten-year restoration programme. The guided tour will take us through the different State Rooms of the Palace such as the Dining Room, Library, Palm Room, Lady Spencer’s Room, the Great Room and the Painted Room. The final appearance of the rooms, complete with carved architectural detail, chimneypieces and copies of original furniture, is also a testament to the support of the Spencer family who provided access to Althorp to enable replication work of outstanding quality to be achieved. The accurate restoration is complimented by a magnificent collection of paintings and furniture, specially assembled for the House, including five Benjamin West paintings graciously lent by Her Majesty The Queen. Following the guided tour we make our way to Piccadilly to enjoy an Afternoon Cream Tea at the famous Patisserie Richoux, established in 1909. The tea includes finger sandwiches, scones with strawberry preserve and Cornish clotted cream with your choice of tea, coffee or hot chocolate. A delightful way to round off a Sunday afternoon.
Spice U40 - American Pool and Social Night At 1920 Bar
Date: Monday 4th April 2016 Place: 19-20 Great Sutton St, London (EC1V 0DR) At the Spice Pool Table 6:30pm to 8:30pm Cost: £10.50 Includes: Our own pool table for two hours, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Test your pool shark skills in tonight’s Spice U40 pool night. Whether you’re a grand master or a rookie this will be a fun night out in a great location in central London. We will have our own American sized pool table to play on and thee are drinks and food aplenty for those who wish to indulge. The decor at 1920 is akin to that of a 70s New York Pool House, with cool brown decking matched with lipstick red furniture to create a relaxing yet chic ambience. These guys are serious about their cocktails as well - be sure to check out the vodka, caramelised apple and cinnamon syrup-infused 'Apple Crumble.'
Early Dine - Navarro's Best Tapas in Town
Date: Tuesday 5th April 2016 Place: 67 Charlotte Street, London (W1T 4PH) Meet at Spice Table 6:30pm £28.50 Includes: fabulous sharing tapas meal, the food is plentiful, service & Spice host Extras: Drinks are payable on the evening This is a great restaurant and very popular with Spice members. The food is excellent and with our sharing tapas menu you have the opportunity to try lots of different dishes. Our menu includes an extensive selection of tapas dishes with plenty of vegetarian options. There is always plenty of food for everyone. We have not included desserts or drinks/coffees to try and keep this a reasonable night out but you can buy these on the night. Our dining out evenings in different restaurants are always very enjoyable and if you have not been to Navarro’s before it is definitely worth a visit. Review: “This is truly one of the best tapas restaurants I have ever been too. The food is excellent and the service is as good as the wine.
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Theatre - The War of The Worlds
Wednesday 6th April 2016 Dominion Theatre, 268 Tottenham Court, London (W1T 7AQ) At entrance to foyer - Spice Sign 7pm £55 Includes: discounted ticket, booking fee and Spice host. Public Price £69 tickets in Stalls Row M & N Sorry there can be no refunds on tickets unless we can re-sell your ticket for you. Jeff Wayne's global music phenomenon is reimagined and brought to spectacular life for its much anticipated world stagepremiere. This new production features a star cast, full supporting company, Liam Neeson in 3D holography and on screen, the iconic Martian Fighting Machine, special effects, and a live on-stage orchestra conducted by Jeff Wayne. The groundbreaking score, which has enjoyed over 15 million double albums sales and a staggering 330 weeks in the charts, includes the unforgettable hits The Eve Of The War, Thunder Child and Forever Autumn. Set in Victorian England and inspired by the famous H.G. Wells novel of the same name, THE WAR OF THE WORLDS tells the devastating story of the invasion of Earth by Martians, as seen through the eyes of a journalist, his loved ones and those he encounters.
All prices shown are for Spice members please see our web site for guest prices
Meet and Eat at Cau, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Date: Thursday 7th April 2016 Place: Cau, 99-101 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent (TN1 1QG) Ask for the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: Booking fee and Spice host. Extras: Food, drinks and service charge. CAU’s vision is to capture that spirit in a restaurant that would fit right into the heart of Palermo, Buenos Aires. Full of vitality, passion and a sense of fun, CAU is a great place to visit and enjoy. The menu embraces Buenos Aires cuisine, a melting pot of comfort food inspired by Italy and Spain alongside the jewel in Argentina’s crown, its beef. Mouth-watering steaks, burgers and steak sandwiches are joined by a tempting selection of more-ish favourites, each with a distinctive Buenos Aires twist.
The Beatles in London Tour with Ian Jelf
Date: Thursday 7th April 2016 Place: Outside Baker Street tube Station, London (NW1 5RU) At the statue of Sherlock Holmes 7pm Cost: £15 Includes: 2 hours guided tour with Ian Jelf Although everyone associates the "Fab Four" with Liverpool, once they became famous they moved to London. For that reason London has plenty of sights associated with arguably the best group ever and what better way to discover more than on the latest of our guided walks with Ian Jelf? We'll see where Paul and Linda dodged dustbins, how Ringo was unlucky as a landlord, George had quite an innocent trip(!) and John upset the Ku Klux Klan! The walk lasts about two hours and begins at the statue of Sherlock Holmes in front of Baker Street Station. The walk will end at Piccadilly Circus.
Friday Night Comedy Great Queen Street
Date: Friday 8th April 2016 Place: Kingsway Hall, 66 Great Queen Street, London (WC2B 5BX) Meet at entrance - Spice sign 6:45pm Cost: £20 Includes: entrance ticket, booking fee and Spice host Extras: Drinks If you would like a bit of luxury on your comedy night out in London then this is the venue for you! Kingsway Hall in Great King Street in Covent Garden is a magical world of luxury. The comedians are the finest and funniest on the circuit. After the comedy has finished you can stay and enjoy the wonderful surroundings and late drinking in the Lounge Bar or we can head off to get a late supper locally.
Sailing Weekend around the Solent
Dates: Fri 8th Apr - Sun 10th Apr Fri 6th May - Sun 8th May Fri 10th Jun - Sun 12th Jun Fri 15th Jul - Sun 17th Jul Fri 29th Jul - Sun 31st Jul Fri 30th Sep - Sun 2nd Oct Place: Chichester Marina, Chichester Harbour, West Sussex (PO20 7EJ) Friday evening from 8.00p.m. Cost: £255 Shared Cabin, (Deposit £50) includes: 2 nights on board in shared cabins, diesel, wet weather gear, life harnesses, breakfasts, lunches, tea and coffee. Extras: evening meals and marina charges The Solent is an ideal location for a weekend sailing cruise. There is so much to see, the beautiful Isle of Wight, many boats and ships passing by and many historic harbours from which to choose our Saturday night stop. With sheltered sailing, we normally sail for the whole day (after a hearty breakfast) and lunch is often eaten underway. Teas/coffees, soft drinks and snacks are available throughout the day. We aim to moor before dark for time to relax, then set off to a restaurant or pub for the evening meal - there are excellent eating places at all the overnight stops. This is a hands on weekend from those who have never sailed before and want to learn the basics and also for those with sailing experience, see our web site for more.
Spice Dines San Lorenzo Wimbledon
Date: Friday 8th April 2016 Place: 38 Wimbledon Hill, Wimbledon (SW19 7PA) Ask for Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £29.50 Includes: 2 Course Menu, Service Charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Tonight we are dining at the popular San Lorenzo restaurant in Wimbledon. San Lorenzo’s is a family run restaurant and has become one of the restaurants in Wimbledon frequented by many tennis stars! The San Lorenzo style of cuisine is Tuscan and we are having a two course meal offering us some tasty Italian Pasta and Pizza dishes. For the main courses there is a selection of Classico Italian Pasta and Pizza dishes which San Lorenzo’s have been serving for many years and are popular favourites. All sauces, breads and the yummy desserts are hand-made on the premises so we are in for a treat. As this is a very popular busy restaurant early bookings are recommended as we have to secure our table many weeks in advance.
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Walking Weekend Arundel, West Sussex and South Downs
Fri 8th Apr 2016 - Sun 10th Apr 2016 Norfolk Arms Hotel, High Street, Arundel, West Sussex (BN18 9AB) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £179 Twin Share, £219 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £45 Single) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals choice of 2 walks each day Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: West Sussex is simply a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty, filled with history, wildlife, picturesque villages, enchanting country pubs, rolling countryside and meandering river valleys, all of ensure your walks are beautiful varied, interesting and thoroughly enjoyable. Further, numerous trails and paths criss-cross the beautiful countryside allowing everyone easy access to what is now Britain’s newest National Park. For more information see our website.
Climbing the Longstone Pinnacle
Date: Saturday 9th April 2016 Place: Symonds Yat, Forest of Dean 10.00am - 4.30pm £55 Climbing is one of the fastest growing sports. Its great fun and anybody can do it. It’s a really exciting way to improve physical fitness combining strength, balance, flexibility and mental stimulation. On your arrival at 'Symonds Yat Rock' you will be met by a member of Forest Adventure’s team of highly qualified climbing instructors, who will give you a full safety brief and kit you out with your harness and helmet. Learning as a group and in pairs all the skills needed to enjoy this great sport will be taught in a relaxed way and at an easy pace. You will need to wear loose comfortable outdoor clothing and pumps or rock shoes. (the thinner the sole the better). Take waterproofs and snacks, we will break for lunch at a local café (to be paid separately). In the morning you will learn the techniques of rock climbing and Abseiling around rock faces at Symonds Yat, we will then break for lunch, after lunch we shall further challenge ourselves culminating in climbing up the Longstone Pinnacle which is a pillar of Rock 110ft on one side and 50ft on the other standing on its own, from the top you can reward yourself with a magnificent view overlooking the Wye Valley.
Imperial War Museum Duxford Air Museum
Date: Saturday 9th April 2016 Place: IWM Duxford, Cambridgeshire (CB22 4QR) Visitor Centre 11am Cost: £22 Includes: Entrance to IWM Duxford Air Museum and Spice Host Extras: Refreshments IWM Duxford is set within the spacious grounds of the famous former First and Second World War airfield. The Duxford Air Museum has one of the best collections of Aircraft in the world with exhibitions on Historic Aircraft, Battle of Britain, Land Warfare, Historic RAF Duxford and 1940’s War Room. This is a great day out and gives you a fascinating insight into our aviation history. We will meet in the visitor Centre and during the day we can stop for refreshments at the Mess Restaurant or Wing Co Joe’s Café (members own cost).
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London Eye and Thames River Cruise
Saturday 9th April 2016 London Eye Millennium Pier, County Hall (SE1 7PB) Pier entrance by Eye - Spice Sign 11:15am Cost: £34 Includes: London Eye Flight, Thames Cruise, 4 D Cinema ticket, Booking Fee & Host Extras: Refreshments A Thames Cruise and “flight” on the London Eye must be high on everyone’s “Must Do” list of things to do in London! Even if you’ve done this before, the scenery and views are always different. It’s a fantastic way to get a bird’s eye view of London and the Thames which never fails to amaze! Prior to our Flight we will take a 40 minute circular sightseeing Cruise along the Thames where you get close up to the Houses of Parliament then make your way along the Thames to Tower Bridge. There is a fascinating commentary that brings the city and its buildings to life and you may find out a few factoids you never knew before! After our cruise we will then make out way to The London Eye next door to the Millennium Pier.
Pitsford Reservoir Ramble
Date: Sunday 10th April 2016 Place: Brixworth Country Park, Pitsford Water, Northamptonshire (NN6 9DG) 11.15am for 11.30am start Cost: £5.50 Includes: 6 miles guided walk Extras: Refreshments Whether you want to blow off the cobwebs from our Spring party the night before or just fancy a nice Sunday walk around the reservoir, join Steve Dell for this lovely walk. We start at the Brixworth Country Park visitor centre and walk around the perimeter of Pitsford Water reservoir. The walk is around 6 miles and fairly flat with a couple of undulations but we will take our time. At the end of the walk we can visit the lovely café for a bite to eat.
St Moritz Swiss Dining or Meat or Cheese Fondue
Date: Saturday 9th April 2016 Place: 161 Wardour Street, London (W1F 8WJ) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £28.25 Cheese Fondue/Swiss Dish, £37.25 Member Meat Fondue Includes: 1 Course Dinner, Service Charge and Spice host Extras: Drinks and additional courses Sample the delights of Swiss Dining at St Moritz restaurant. Established in 1974 the St.Moritz is London's oldest Swiss restaurant. The offer genuine traditional Swiss cuisine prepared and served under the auspices of the renowned proprietor and chef Armin Loetscher. Included is a one course dinner with a range of different Swiss dishes to choose from such as Cheese or Meat Fondue (min 2 people), Pork with Calvados, Escalope of veal in breadcrumbs, chicken with tarragon sauce, Beef Stroganoff , Bratwurst sausage with Rosti potato and vegetarian dishes such as Cheese fondue, Rosti with vegetables or Spatzli with wild mushrooms and cheese.
Tate Britain Visit and Lunch
Date: Saturday 9th April 2016 Place: 58 Millbank, Westminster, London (SW1P 4RW) Morpeth Arms - Spice Table 12:15pm Cost: £19.50 Includes: One Course Meal, Service, Visit to Tate Britain, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Today we are heading to the Morpeth Arms in Millbank for a lovely lunch before taking a stroll to the Tate Britain Museum where we can browse the art exhibits at our leisure. Overlooking the River Thames and just two minutes from Tate Britain, The Morpeth Arms is a traditional London pub with 'Haunted Spirits'. Here, we’ll be having a one course meal with pub classic choices like steak and ale pie, bangers and mash, beer battered fish and chips, ham, egg and chips, and char grilled Mediterranean vegetable kebabs. After lunch we make our way to the Tate Britain which holds the largest collection of British art in the world from 1500 to the present day. You'll find masterpieces by Gainsborough, Hogarth, Millais, Whistler, as well as outstanding modern and contemporary artists such as Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, and Damien Hirst. The Tate Britain also has the largest collection of works by JMW Turner in the world. (Entry to Special Exhibitions not included)
MG Sports Car Day at Brooklands in Surrey
Date: Sunday 10th April 2016 Place: Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey (KT13 0SL) at ticket desk in Shop by Entrance 11am Cost: £16 Includes: Entry to MG Day and Brooklands Museum, Spice Host Extras: Refreshments Brooklands was the world’s first purpose built motor racing circuit constructed in 1907 and the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation. The museum displays a wide range of motor and aviation exhibits from racing cars and motorcycles, to a collection of Hawker and Vickers aircraft including a Wellington Bomber, Viking, Varsity, Vicount, VC10 and Concorde. Today is the showcasing of MGs of all ages to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the MG TA Midget and the 55th anniversary of the MG Midget. There will be action on Test Hill, a Concours d’Elegance and a cavalcade on the Mercedes-Benz World circuit. This is a great day out and opportunity to see some wonderful vehicles. We will stop for refreshments during the day (members own cost).
Wildlife Photography Exhibit and Lunch NHM
Date: Sunday 10th April 2016 Place: Natural History, Cromwell Road, London (SW7 5BD) Natural History Museum - Just Inside Main Entrance 11am Cost: £32 Ticket & Lunch, £17 Ticket Only Includes: Ticket Exhibition, Optional Main Meal, Dessert and soft drink, Service, Spice Host This is a lovely and enjoyable way to spend a Sunday so why not join us? One of the world’s most prestigious photography Exhibitions – The Wildlife Photographer of the Year – is on at the Natural History Museum. Take a journey around the world through the eye of a lens, from the cold artic to the deepest tropical rainforests. Visually stunning and often thoughtprovoking, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year images provide an insight into the beauty and variety of nature and shine a spotlight on the rarely seen wonders of the natural world. More than 100 prize-winning photographs from the competition’s 18 categories will be on display in the exhibition, showing the very best images of wildlife and nature taken by top photographers from around the world. There’s plenty of time to also view some of the rest of the natural curiosities collections consisting of more than 70 million specimens collected over the last 400 years! We will start our day with the Photography exhibition and will then go and enjoy a delicious one course meal and a drink in the restaurant. Sample hot dishes include Stone baked Pizza, Burgers, Deli Salad or a selection of Pasta dishes. After lunch we will make our way in smaller groups around the many interesting galleries, exhibits and collections in the museum.
Unique Wolf Experience with Walk - Bedford
Date: Sunday 10th April 2016 Place: A428 between Bromham and Turvey, Bedfordshire 10:30am to 1pm Cost: £45 Includes: exclusive Spice visit with opportunity to walk and feed the wolves Walk and feed the wolves - another unusual and truly amazing experience and a popular event with Spice members. We have run this event many times and always receive excellent feedback. Are you afraid of the Big Bad Wolf probably, so now is a chance to confront your fears and dispel those childhood myths. We meet the wolves and their handlers at the Anglian Wolf Society which is located between Bromham and Turvey near Bedford. The Anglian Wolf Society is a small private sanctuary for wolves and they support and raise funds for wolf conservation. They are not open to the public but have kindly agreed to allow Spice members to visit the centre to learn more about the wolves their habits. There are opportunities to feed them and have some hands on experience. We also accompany one of the wolves on a walk around the adjacent land. The handlers will make you very welcome and chat to you throughout the whole wolf experience and answer any of your questions.
Sunday Roast at Marcus Wareing at Tredwells near Seven Dials
Date: Sunday 10th April 2016 Place: Tredwells, 44 Upper St Martins Lane, Seven Dials (WC2 9NY) Spice Table 12:30pm Cost: £36 Includes: Three Course Set Sunday Lunch, Service Charge and Spice host Extras: Drinks From Marcus Wareing Restaurants comes Tredwell's, the latest addition to the group and recent winner of AA's Restaurant of the Year - London. Today enjoy a Sunday Lunch of three courses from the set menu. See seasonable sample Sunday Lunch menu below. This homage to London culture sees a British produce-packed menu served in a setting reminiscent of the pie & mash shops of yesteryear. Perched in the fashionable Seven Dials district of the West End, Tredwell’s is just a 2 minutes’ walk from Leicester Square Tube Station.
Spice Dines - Thai Pinto in Leatherhead
Date: Wednesday 13th April 2016 Place: Thai Pinto, 36-38 High Street, Leatherhead (KT22 8AJ) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: 3 Course Thai Meal, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks While Thai food has a reputation for being spicy, Thai food is actually based on a balance between different flavours including spicy, sour, sweet, salty, and bitter. This goes beyond simply combining the flavours within an individual dish to incorporate the contrast in flavours between two or three different dishes, which is one reason Thai’s share meals and eat family style. Tonight we’re off to Thai Pinto in Leatherhead where we will dine in traditional Thai style and enjoying tasting many different flavours in a selection of starters and mains. The restaurant is highly recommended and this is the perfect chance to experience and enjoy the cuisine as well as the company of other Spice members in the area!
Royal London Pub Walk and Quiz
Date: Thursday 14th April 2016 Place: Old Shades Pub, 37 Whitehall, London (SW1A 2BX) In the pub - Spice Sign 6:30pm Cost: £4.50 Includes: organised fun pub walk and quiz. Spice host Extras: Drinks and food (optional) This is a great way to enjoy a spring evening with a few like-minded Spice members. We have devised a social evening where we are sending you off on a walk round “Royal London” which is the most beautiful and interesting part of Central London. We will start from the Old Shades Pub which is on Whitehall and finish in the Westminster area at a pub, the name of which will be given to you on the night The walk is approximately 2/3 miles but along the way you will be answering a few quiz questions and gathering bits of information which will hopefully earn you and your team a few extra points. Depending on numbers you will be split into smaller groups and there will of course be a pub stop or two.
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Italian Dinner at Sopranos and Live Piano Bar
Friday 15th April 2016 183 Kensington High Street, London (W8 6SH) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm £27 for 2 courses, £33 for 3 courses Includes: Optional 2 or 3 course dinner, service charge, live piano and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Sopranos have been serving Italian cuisine for over 20 years! They offer traditional Italian dishes and is a popular restaurant on Kensington High Street. Tonight you have a choice of either a two or three course menu, offering lots of tasty dishes. Then, after dinner we will go downstairs to their “Live lounge” with live piano/jazz playing from 9pm. This is a great way to meet up with other Spice members for a fun evening with live music.
Cycling Weekend in the New Forest
Date: Fri 15th Apr 2016 - Sun 17th Apr 2016 Place: Lyndhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Final details will be emailed Cost: £185 Twin share, £220 Twin & Bike Hire, £235 Single, £270 Single & Bike Hire (Deposit £40) Includes: two night's accommodation in Lyndhurst in either a comfortable hotel or B&B, 2 breakfasts, 1 evening meal (3 courses) on Saturday, 2 days fully guided cycling. Extras: Bike hire if required We have linked up with Graham Hills who organises our Bike day rides for a cycling weekend in the New Forest. We will spend two days and nights in this historic National Park. We will cycle through unenclosed pasture land amongst the iconic miniature ponies. Take in the forest, rivers and the coast on this varied and beautiful part of the country. This will be a great weekend to relax, indulge and have some fun. Over the weekend we will be covering a reasonable distance on mainly flat forest gravel track and quiet country roads. The cycling is classed as moderate but you do need to be reasonable fit to take part and it is best if you have done some day rides before coming along. There will be about 3 hours cycling each day at a medium pace. We will be staying in the town of Lyndhurst either in a comfortable hotel or B&B. We can cross the road and you are straight into the New Forest, take a stroll up the road to Lyndhurst village where you will find the New Forest Museum and Visitor Centre as well as a variety of shops. The restaurant serves dishes sourced from local produce wherever possible
Brighton Social at Bom-Bane's Cafe/Restaurant
Date: Friday 15th April 2016 Place: Bom-Bane's, 24 George Street, Brighton, East Sussex (BN2 1RH) Ask for the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: Spice host and booking fee Extras: Food, drinks, service charge For our Brighton Social this month we are visiting the fantastic Bom-Bane’s cafe, where we will enjoy delicious homely food where film, music and puppetry are also available. Bom-Bane’s is a licensed cafe-restaurant run by musician Jane Bom-Bane and situated in the Brighton (not the Hove) George St. It features delicious Belgian and other European dishes, along with the Aesop’s Tables, Tablerone, TurnTable, Twenty-Seven Chimes Table, Uns-Table and Water. Wondrously eccentric hostess Jane Bom-Bane plays at the cafe often an official full length show with hats ‘n’all, and often with a musical friend so be prepared for a great night and a few surprises along the way.
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Narrow Boat Weekend - Gayton Marina, Northampton
Fri 15th Apr 2016 - Mon 18th Apr 2016 Gayton Marina, Near Northampton (NN7 3ER) Arrive between 2.30p.m. and 4.30p.m. £185 (Deposit £35) Includes: exclusive Spice weekend on a narrowboat for 3 nights (option to depart Sunday is also available), 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and Spice host throughout Extras: Drinks and some meals For this weekend we are heading to Gayton Marina in Northampton, which is ideally situated just off the M1 (junction 15A) and close to Towcester and Northampton. We will leave from Gayton and head south onto the Grand Union Canal towards Blisworth. Day two will take us towards Great Linford and we will have a number of locks to go through as we travel to Cosgrove where an aqueduct crosses the River Ouse. On Sunday we will spend the day travelling back to Gayton.
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North Wales Hostel Walking and Social Weekend
Fri 15th Apr 2016 - Sun 17th Apr 2016 Prestatyn, Denbighshire, Wales (LL19 7AG) Arrive from 4.00p.m. check out 12 noon £75 Sharing, (Deposit £15) Includes: 2 nights hostel accommodation, 1 cooked breakfast & 1 continental breakfast, Friday night buffet and Saturday night meal. 2 guided walks and the services of a Spice host This one will suit the walkers and the non-walkers for whom there is plenty to do in the area. For the walkers, we have access straight on to the beach and The Wales Coast Path where we can go South towards Rhyll and beyond to the Kinmel Nature Reserve or North passing Prestatyn itself and on to the Gronant Dunes Nature Reserve. Alternatively we could drive inland and access the Clwydian Way & explore the Clwydian Hills overlooking the coastline. For the non-walkers we are within driving distance of many attractions.
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Serenity Weekend Discovery Your Inner Self
Fri 15th Apr 2016 - Sun 17th Apr 2016 Lluest Fach, Mid Wales (SY21 0PB) Arrive from 6.00p.m. Supper at 8.30p.m. £160 Sharing, (Deposit £32 Sharing) Includes: 2 nights B&B, Friday buffet supper, 2 buffet lunches, 4 course evening meal and all instruction This is a weekend of gentle personal exploration for those intrigued by alternative spiritual and holistic practices. The holistic approach deals with the mind, body and spirit as an interactive whole and can help deal with the stresses and pressure of modern day living. Through the use of healing touch, energy therapies, chakra work, sound, dowsing, movement and meditation you will discover and explore hidden elements of yourself. Learning to connect with your hidden self can help promote greater self-confidence which can lead to a more balanced and harmonious lifestyle.
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Walking Weekend Snowdonia Mountains and Coast
Fri 15th Apr 2016 - Sun 17th Apr 2016 Ambassador Hotel, Llandudno, Wales (LL30 2NR) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £159 Twin Share, £199 Single (Deposit £30 Twin Share, £40 Single) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals, 2 guided walks per day Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: Llandudno is an excellent resort to visit during the quieter winter months. We will return to our regular haunt of the Ambassador hotel which is within staggering distance of some excellent traditional inns but more importantly it is an ideal location to allow us access to the mountains of Snowdonia and the coast alike. We can explore the beautiful Conwy valley, the surrounding Cambrian Mountains or wander the miles of beautiful coastal paths!
Moroccan Feast Dining and Belly Dancing
Date: Saturday 16th April 2016 Place: Souk Medina, 1A Short's Gardens, London (WC2H 9AT) Ask for Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £29.99 Includes: sharing feast, belly dancing & service charge Spice host Extras: Drinks and Desserts if required Save the cost of a flight to Marrakesh and join us for an authentic North African experience, only a couple of minutes’ walk from Leicester Square! We have a treat in store for you. From the moment you walk into this restaurant, the sights, sounds and smells may make you think you have entered a Moroccan bazaar. We have reserved a private area for Spice. The menu is a traditional “Mezze” selection of dishes, served together. The idea is to taste and enjoy as many dishes as you want. The menu you will be enjoying includes: to start with - Vine Leaves, Humous & Pitta Bread, Calamari, Couscous; for main course - Tagine of Lamb with prunes & roasted almonds, Tagine of Chicken with Saffron & Herbs, Tagine of Spinach/Feta Cheese & Roast Onion, Tagine of Chick Peas/Cumin & Harissa Sauce. And once you have taken your fill of savoury dishes, you can follow this with a sweet dessert of Baklava (Pastry with honey & almonds), served with traditional fresh mint tea. We will also have a Belly Dancer performing for us. (the dancer is not guaranteed but there usually is one but organised by the venue) Once we have finished our meal, we will retire to the atmospheric bar.
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Hippodrome - Suspiciously Elvis and Dinner
Saturday 16th April 2016 Cranbourn Street, Leicester Square, London (WC2H 7JH) In bar on 1st floor - Spice sign 6:30pm £65 Ticket and Meal Includes: ticket to Suspiciously Elvis show, Stalls table seat, 2 course meal, service & Spice host. There can be no refunds on tickets unless we are able to re-sell your ticket. Extras: Drinks While singing in California, Ivor Potter was told by Cher that he sounded just like Elvis… and so SUSPICIOUSLY ELVIS was born! He is back at the Hippodrome following a sell-out evening last time so why not join us for this great night out. Now respected around the word for his vocal talent, and with his highly accomplished band and brass section, and with the beautiful Feather Girl Dancers, SUSPICIOUSLY ELVIS faithfully recreates those classic Vegas nights of rock’n'roll when the King was at the height of his powers.
Spice U40 - Ice Skating And Drinks
Date: Saturday 16th April 2016 Place: Queens Ice And Bowl (W2 4QP) Main Entrance At 12:45 for 13:00 Skating Cost: £14.50 Includes: Spice Host, Ice Skating Ticket Extras: Food and Drink Join us for a sociable afternoon we start with a “warm-up” by Ice Skating and practice your toe loops or a twizzle or two perhaps. We then head for some refreshments at a nearby pub and possibly lunch. A great way to spend a Saturday and sure beats the supermarket run!
Spring Walk in Hampstead with Ian Jelf
Date: Saturday 16th April 2016 Place: Hampstead, London (NW3 1QG) Outside Hampstead Tube Station 2pm Cost: £15 Includes: 2 hour guided walk with Ian Jelf Extras: cash for drinks in the pub afterwards People are always describing London as a collection of villages. Well, hilly Hampstead (be prepared for some climbing!) is home to some of the capital’s wealthiest people and finest open spaces. Yet, more than almost anywhere else in London, Hampstead has managed to retain its atmosphere as a village. It looks really splendid in the winter, too and there are fewer tourists milling around! During our walk, we shall be finding the homes (and graves) of some famous people, hearing tales of the Great Plague, finding out about Hampstead’s forgotten history as a spa and even finding a link with James Bond!
Vintage Wine Festival with Laithwaites at Old Billingsgate
Date: Saturday 16th April 2016 Place: Old Billingsgate, Lower Thames St, London (EC3R 6DX) Main Entrance - Spice Sign 5:15pm to 9pm Cost: £35 Includes: Entry to The Vintage Wine Festival Saturday Evening Session; souvenir tasting glass and programme; all wine and food samples; free entry to Tasting Theatre sessions; tailored wines tours from wine advisors Sailing ships from Bordeaux, for centuries, unloaded wines on these very wharves. The Vintners of London still have their great Hall next door. Two years ago The Club re-enacted that journey, sailing the 'Irene' under Tower Bridge with a cargo of claret. So Laithwaites use this great old market space for the largest-ever London Vintage Wine Festival. Welcome back to where, long ago, Britain began its love affair with wine. Yes, it's Vintage Festival time. When you get the chance to meet the winemakers and try their wines. With more than 50 producers and over 250 wines on show, this Vintage Festival promises to be the biggest and best yet. Wine is one of those subjects where the more you learn, the more you realise there is to learn. And the more you know, the more you love wine...that can't be a bad thing! To add to the experience there will be tasting theatres with 20 minute sessions covering everything from how to taste wine, to food and wine matching. Find both theatres on the Mezzanine Level, Roadside. Stair and Lift access is available.
Clay Pigeon Shooting in Dartford, Kent
Date: Sunday 17th April 2016 Place: Badgers Mount, Darenth Woods, nr Bean (DA2 8DA) JJ's Clay Shooting Club 11:45am Cost: £33.50 - 25 Clays, £55.50 Member - 50 Clays Includes tuition, all equipment and either 25 or 50 Clays If you’ve always wanted to have a go at shooting a gun, then this is an ideal event for you! Experience the thrill of pulling the trigger and get a buzz when your clay target shatters! We have booked a clay target shooting experience at JJ’s Clay Shooting Club. We will be informally and safely coached to enjoy shot gun shooting by our friendly instructors in pleasant country surroundings. Depending on numbers, we may have a bit of a competition to make things a bit more exciting, with a trophy for the winner! JJ’s Clay Shooting Club is a well-established club, set in a lovely location in 16 acres of the natural woodlands of Darenth Woods, just outside London near Bean in Kent.
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White Water Rafting - Lee Valley
Sunday 17th April 2016 Station Road, Waltham Cross (EN9 1AB) Lee Valley White Water Centre 11:30am £59 Includes: White water rafting session, equipment, Spice host. Sorry, there can be no refunds on tickets unless we are able to re-sell your ticket. Extras: Refreshments Are you brave enough to tackle the blast of the rapids? Get set for a fabulous time of unforgettable adrenalin pumping white water rafting. Join Spice as we tackle nerve wracking grade 4 rapids, drops and fast white water. This is a fabulous chance to ride the rapids, so come and take the plunge! Upon arrival you’ll be kitted out with a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet and boots before going through a safety briefing and some flat water exercises on the lake – it’s here that you’ll learn the secrets of navigating the world class white water course. We'll get several runs down the course so that we can start calmly and get used to the feel of the boat and then we’ll progressively up the fear factor each time. By our final run we’ll be surfing, high siding, spinning and nose dunking with the very best! After our adventure, we’ll relax and unwind in the café bar and have something hot/cold to drink (payable on the day). Snacks are also available at the café bar. The wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet and boots are provided but you need to wear swimwear under the wetsuit and you need to take a towel. Basic level of swimming required.
Sunday Lunch at Gordons Wine Bar and Two Temple Place Exhibition
Date: Sunday 17th April 2016 Place: Gordon's Wine Bar, 47 Villiers Street, London (WC2N 6NE) Meet: Ask for the Spice Table in Wine Vault downstairs 12pm Cost: £19 Includes: 1 Course Lunch, Service Charge, Visit and donation Extras: Drinks Today we are heading to Gordon’s Wine Bar near Embankment which is thought to be the oldest Wine Bar in London and has been established in its present form since 1890. We have booked an area downstairs in the original atmospheric candlelit wine vault cellar where you can choose a main course lunch from their selection of hot home cooked dishes or variety of salads. After lunch we will visit Two Temple Place which is one of London’s hidden architectural gems, an extraordinary neo-Gothic mansion built by William Waldorf Astor in 1895 on the Embankment. We will take a self guided tour through the magnificent rooms, the Great Hall, The Library, Lower Gallery and the beautiful panelled and sculptured staircase and hallway.
Spice London Book Club – April, May & June th
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Every Month: April, May & June
Date: Tuesday 19 April, 17 May & 21 June Place: Ye Olde Cock Tavern, 22 Fleet Street London (EC4Y 1AA) Ye Old Cock Tavern, Upstairs room 7pm to 9pm Cost: £9.99 Includes: Spice host, choice of sandwich or baguette or Jacket Potato Do you enjoy a good read? Then come along tonight for our Book Club event kindly hosted by Cherry Trott. The idea is that each month you discuss a set book that you have read in preparation for the event. The evening will be very informal and you will have the opportunity to discuss the book and express your opinions. During the evening there will be a choice of baguette or sandwich.
Cocktails Vintage Style on a Tube, in a Tube Station
Date: Wednesday 20th April 2016 Place: Cahoots London, 13 Kingly Court, London (W1B 5PG) Spice Table 7pm Cost: £24.50 Includes: Cocktail, Sandwich, Service, Host. Extras: Additional Drinks It’s quirky, it’s new and it will transport you into a time long past. Join us tonight as we venture off to Cahoots, London’s latest bar which is designed like a 1940’s Tube Station and located in a WW2 air raid shelter. The Soho-based Cahoots aims to transport guests back to the war period, with themed cocktails, authentic décor, staff in character, a ticket booth upon entrance and a vintage tube seating area using old underground carriage fabrics. The extensive cocktail menu is an impressive eight pages long with choices such as Dig for Victory-style cocktails, drinks served in Thermos flasks, milk bottles, as well as new variations of old favourites. Jazz, swing and lindyhop with some rock’n’roll and electro-swing Included in our price is a cocktail on arrival and some sharing platters with various sandwiches and snacks.
Spice U40 - Spring Beerfest at the Bavarian Beerhouse
Date: Wednesday 20th April 2016 Place: The Arches, 9 Crutched Friars, Tower Hill, London (EC3N 2AU) ask for Spice table 7pm Cost: £21 Includes: Spring Beerfest and Main Course Meal, service charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Tonight we’ll be bringing Oktoberfest forward a few months with the “Spring Festival” at Bavarian Beerhouse. With live Oompah music, dancing and plenty of German beer served in Stein glasses there's no excuse not to get involved and join in with all the fun. A fun venue at any time of the year, the Bavarian Beerhouse is the only authentic Bavarian restaurant & bar in the United Kingdom. It’s a small piece of Bavaria transferred to London, complete with Lederhosen, oompah music and Bavarian dancers. Eating, drinking and entertainment are strongly encouraged.
Latin Krazy Salsa Dancing and Tapas Supper
Date: Thursday 21st April 2016 Place: Bar Salsa, 96 Charing Cross Road, London (WC2H 0JG) In the Bar - Spice sign 7pm Cost: £24.50 Includes: dance class, sharing/tapas meal and Spice Host Extras: Drinks We’re hitting Bar Salsa, which is London’s Hottest Latin Nightspot and restaurant based in the heart of Soho. Apart from the Mexican style food an added bonus for the evening is the live music and dancing till 2.00a.m. There are Salsa dance lessons for beginners as well as intermediates, which starts at 7.30p.m. till 8.30p.m. and this is included in the cost of the event. For our meal we will be having a sharing tapas meal. You must locate the Spice Co-Ordinator in the bar as you need to collect your dance ticket. This is a fun evening with great music to Salsa the night away.
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Italy Cinque Terre Photography Tour - 4 Night Break
Thu 21st Apr 2016 - Mon 25th Apr 2016 Monterosso, Cinque Terre, Italy £899 Twin Share, £1029 Single (Deposit £200) Includes: Flights, transfers, 4 nights B&B in the 3 star hotel, 4 days photographic tuition Extras: Insurance, Local Payment 50 euro, lunches, evening meals, drinks A photographers dream… The Cinque Terre must surely contain the five most beautiful seaside villages in Italy. A rugged portion of coastline, The Cinque Terre is in the Liguria region of Italy to the west of La Spezia, on the Italian Riviera. The five villages of the Cinque Terre, coastline and the surrounding hillside is a National Park and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cars are not allowed so access is by trains, boats and feet! This will surely guarantee a very relaxing time. Our photographic tour is based in the pretty village of Monterosso al Mare but we visit all five villages of the Cinque Terre. The five villages, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are easily accessed by using the trains, hopping on and off and soaking up the atmosphere and character of each village. There are photographic opportunities in abundance and the late afternoon light warming the colourful houses of the villages sets the scene for some lovely images. Through motivating, practical sessions you’ll learn more about your camera and various techniques to capture stunning images of the Cinque Terre. For more information please see our web site.
Meet and Eat Pub Social - The Glamorgan Croydon
Date: Thursday 21st April 2016 Place: 81 Cherry Orchard Road, Croydon (CR0 6BE) The Glamorgan - Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: table booking and Spice host Extras: drinks and food - pay as you go evening We run a regular social Meet and Eat evening in the Croydon area. This month we are heading for The Glamorgan in Cherry Orchard Road. Here is everything you can expect from a traditional pub – a warm welcome, fantastic atmosphere and real ales – and it’s thought to be one of Croydon’s best kept secrets. There is a great choice of tapas, lighter meals and some traditional as well as slightly more unusual main meals on the menu to choose from. We have booked a table in the restaurant at 7.30 and on the night you just pay for your drinks and the food and service charge for your chosen dishes. A Spice host will be there to meet you and we are keen to make this a regular meeting each month moving from different pubs and restaurants in the area. You will need to book for this event and we have charged a small booking fee for organising the event and providing a Spice Host.
Sevenoaks Shuffle at Oaks Spice Indian Restaurant
Date: Thursday 21st April 2016 Place: Oaks Spice, 107 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent (TN13 1BH) Ask for the Spice table on your arrival 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: Spice host, booking fee Extras: Food, drink, service charge Tonight we are dining at the Oaks Spice Restaurant in Sevenoaks located near the train station. Offering sophisticated cuisine in friendly and elegant surroundings, the restaurant combines contemporary elegance, an intimate ambiance and excellent service. Our shuffle meals are a popular way of dining in Spice so why not come along and have a fun evening with other local Spice members. Our shuffles mean that you change places after each course so that you can meet and chat to more Spice members and our host on the evening will organise this so all you need to do is book and turn up. Our Sevenoaks evenings are becoming very popular so please do book early. This is a great way to meet up with other members local to Kent over a drink and supper so make sure you don't miss out on what promises to be a great night!
Friday Night Cocktails, Music from the 70's through to 90's Dancing
Date: Friday 22nd April 2016 Place: Apples & Pears Bar, 26 Osborn Street, London (E1 6TD) At the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £20 Includes: One cocktail, service charge, Spice host Extras: Additional drinks Join us for Friday night cocktails & Vietnamese food at the Apple and Pears Cocktail Bar which is a new venue for a Spice evening out. Friday night music is the very best in 70s, 80s and 90s, brought to you by their resident DJ. Apples and Pears is a neighbourhood cocktail bar serving up well-crafted drinks, whilst introducing colourful flavours and ingredients. They have created a seasonal cocktail list using locally sourced ingredients and in-house infusions to create innovative twists and their signature cocktails. Our evening includes a cocktail from their extensive list, such as East India Cocktail, Rusty Collins, Ruby Russian Mule and their house classic Apples and Pears. We are also have a sharing supper of Vietnamese food that is preordered from another restaurant. There will be selection of dim sum, skewers of beef, chicken & tofu, and spring rolls and a variety of rice paper rolls.
Meet and Eat at The Bakers Arms in Stock near Hanningfield, Essex
Date: Friday 22nd April 2016 Place: Bakers Arms, Common Road, Stock, Essex (CM4 9NF) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Pay as you go and Spice Host Extras: Pay on the night for Food, Drinks and Service Charge The Bakers Arms is a lovely country pub in Stock close to South Hanningfield in Essex. It has a reputation for good food offering lots of Pub classics and seasonal dishes. If you are local to this area please support your local events and come along and meet some of the other members. This is a cheap and cheerful evening where you choose and pay for what dish you want on the night. There is a great choice of dishes on the menu. Our Spice host for the evening will be there to welcome you on arrival and will sort out the food order.
Sailing Introductory Taster Day
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Saturday 23rd April 2016 Chichester Marina, Chichester Harbour, West Sussex (PO20 7EJ) 9.00a.m. Saturday £160 (Deposit £25) Includes: Instruction, lunch, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks, all safety equipment and diesel fees. Waterproofs are available free of charge. Extras: Marina fees On this event you experience the fun of sailing a modern, safe, yacht in scenic and sheltered waters. You feel the excitement of casting off the lines and breaking your bond with the land - then helping to raise the sails and feeling the wind start to push us along… all under the guidance of an experienced skipper. Starting from Chichester Marina, Chichester you join the yacht at 09:00. Following a safety briefing and familiarisation with the yacht and your fellow Spice crew members, we set off for our day’s sail out of the harbour and into the Solent - that stretch of sea that lies between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. Your skipper explains how sailing works, answers your questions and helps you “learn the ropes”. Soon you find yourself sailing the boat! – always with the skipper to hand to support and ensure safe progress. By the time we return to port you have had the opportunity to play your full part in the various tasks that make up sailing a yacht. For lunch we eat aboard. Snacks and drinks are available throughout the day. After lunch we sail back to Chichester marina arriving at approximately 5pm. After everyone has gathered their belongings and said their good byes, usually over a last cup of tea, departure is normally around 5:30pm.
Meet and Mingle Evening for New Members - Champagne Charlies rd
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Every Month: April, May & June
Date: Saturday 23 , 21 May, April, 18 June Place: Champagne Charlies, 17 The Arches, Villiers Street, Near Embankment, (WC2N 6NG) In Bar on left Spice sign 7pm Cost: £19.50 Includes: Welcome drink and light supper of sharing platters of food & Spice host Extras: Additional Drinks This is a great Meet and Mingle evening for all the new members joining Spice to come along to an evening with other new members so that you can meet, chat and plan what events you would like to do. Our Spice host Ashley, will be there to meet you, help with introductions and can answer any of your questions about Spice. All over a glass of wine and some sharing platters of food. Champagne Charlie’s is very centrally located and close to Embankment and Charing Cross underground stations. A traditional wine bar with a lovely atmosphere. On arrival head downstairs and ask for the Spice table. We will also have a sign on the table but it is an L shaped venue so sometimes our table is round towards the back. The food will be served at approximately 8.00p.m. so don’t arrive too late or you might miss out!
Saturday Guided Walk - Toys Hill, Westerham, Kent
Date: Saturday 23rd April 2016 Place: Hosey Common Car Park, Hosey Hill, Near Westerham (A25), Kent (TN16 1PJ) In car park - Spice sign 10:45am Cost: £6 Includes: guided walk 7 mile walk Extras: Drinks and lunch at the pub if required Why not join us today on this new 7 mile walk. The walk starts just south of Westerham through the wooded Hosey Common, then follows the secluded hamlet of French Street, offering a host of treasures including an Oast house and fine views. In 1927, the Westerham Gold was found by workers digging for gravel. This consisted of 14 Iron Age gold staters which were hidden by the Celts. The Greensand Way is followed from h ere to the National Trust-owned Toys Hill; at just over 800 feet it is Kent's highest point. On a clear day, the Ashdown Forest and South Downs are visible. The historic town of Westerham is reached towards the end of the walk. Here you will find plenty to see, plenty to do and plenty to eat! As always on our guided walks please come prepared for the weather on the day with sturdy boots, waterproofs and cash for drinks and lunch at the pub afterwards.
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Saturday Night Shuffle - London
Saturday 23rd April 2016 Waterloo Bar Kitchen, 131 Waterloo Road (SE1 8UR) Ask for Spice Tables 7:30pm £36.50 Includes: 3 three course meal & service & organised shuffle with Spice host Please do not arrive at the restaurant before 7.30p.m. Extras: Drinks and Tea/Coffee Next door to the Old Vic, the Waterloo Bar and Kitchen does a great job of providing the cosy ambience of a bistro combined with the fun of an open kitchen. For tonight’s Spice meal we bring you a chance to meet lots of new Spice members on this popular shuffle meal. We will make up a shuffle for the evening which means that we have you changing places after each course to help you socialise with ease. Our meal this evening will be 3 courses from a special menu being prepared just for Spice. Drinks are not included and you pay for these on the evening. A sample menu is on our website and the food is always very good. Why not join us.
Shuffle Dining - Jamie's Italian, St Albans
Date: Saturday 23rd April 2016 Place: 22 Chequer Street, St Albans, Herts (AL1 3YD) Ask for the Spice Table 7pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Spice table booking, booking fee and Spice host Extras: Food and Drinks are on pay as you go basis Join us tonight as we dine at Jamie’s Italian restaurant. Jamie’s is housed in an old public house that is steeped in local history and an important part of St Alban’s heritage. We have booked a table and expect this to be a popular evening, so early bookings are advised. As the menu is extensive and the prices vary quite a bit for all the tasty dishes we are doing this evening as a pay as you go basis so that you can choose what you would like from the menu.
Saturday Night Dining at The Pig's Ears Beer Cellar, Richmond
Date: Saturday 23rd April 2016 Place: Pig's Ear, 5 Hill Street, Richmond, Surrey (TW9 1SX) At the Spice Table 7pm Cost: £28 Includes: 2 course meal, service charge and Spice host Extras: Drinks The Pig’s Ears was voted the winner of Time Out’s ‘Love London Awards’ Best Pub and Bar in Richmond and also voted one of Surrey Life’s Top 20 Pubs for 2015. Tonight we are visiting The Pig’s Ears, tucked away in a basement beer cellar in Richmond. One of the founding members of The Pig’s Ears spent a lot of time working in Belgium where he first discovered his love of beer. It was the range of beers available in Belgium that inspired him to open up a Belgian influenced bistro. As well as an extensive beer menu of over 100 beers at any one time, The Pig’s Ears has a full wine list, the food is tasty and atmosphere is warm and welcoming. We have a 2 course meal included in our evening.
Sherlock Holmes Museum and Afternoon Tea
Date: Saturday 23rd April 2016 Place: 221b Baker Street, London (NW1 6XE) Main Entrance - Spice Sign 2pm Cost: £34 Includes: Entrance to Museum, Afternoon Tea, Service, Spice Host Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson lived in a Victorian lodging house at 221b Baker Street between 1881-1904, according to the stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The house was built in 1815 and is listed by the Government to protect its architectural and cultural heritage. Today we visit this museum dedicated to the life and times of Sherlock Holmes and see the interior which has been faithfully maintained for posterity exactly as described in the published stories. After our visit to the museum we’ll wander over to the Park Plaza Sherlock Holmes Hotel to indulge in a lovely afternoon tea with freshly cut sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and traditional British desserts as well as choice of tea or coffee.
Ain't Nothin But the Blues and Lunch
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: The Clachan, 34 Kingly Street, London (W1B 5QH) Ask for Spice table 1pm to 8pm Cost: £24.50 Includes: 2 Course Lunch, live Blues music, service charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks We have discovered two great venues in Soho to combine a two course lunch and then an afternoon of live blues music. We are meeting in The Clachan Pub on Kingly Street for some lunch. We are having a two course lunch which includes a starter and main course or main course and dessert from a group menu. After lunch we are heading to the Ain’t Nothing but the Blues bar also in Kingly Street which is London’s original Blues Bar where there is a blue jams session with Barry Jackson and Blue Jack which is on from 4.00 – 8.00p.m. All in all this should be a relaxing and enjoyable Sunday event to add to our programme. Your Spice host will meet you at the Spice table in The Clachan Pub and you will go to the Blues Bar together as a group.
Banqueting House and Lunch at Cote
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: The Banqueting House, Whitehall, London (SW1A 2ER) Main Tours Entrance - Spice Sign 11am Cost: £29.99 Includes: Entrance to Banqueting House, Audio Guide, 3 Course Lunch, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Visit the only surviving building of the old Palace of Whitehall. Marvel at the dramatic ceiling by Rubens celebrating the reign of Charles 1 and then see the place where in 1649 Charles was executed. We will be able to delve into the history of the magnificent Banqueting House which was designed by architect Inigo Jones and it is the only surviving building from the old Whitehall Palace. This is a masterpiece of classical architecture and well worth a visit! There are a lot of famous sights to view, the hot favourites being the vaulted under croft designed as a drinking den for James I and his friends and you can learn little known facts about some of England’s famous monarchs and characters associated with Banqueting House. After our self-guided tour of the Banqueting Hall, we’ll go to a nearby Cote restaurant and indulge in a 3 course meal from a select menu with choices of starters, mains and desserts to suit many tastes.
Fine Dining at the Award Winning Chapter One, Kent
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: Farnborough Common, Locksbottom, Kent (BR6 8NF) Ask for the Spice Table 12pm to 3pm Cost: £31.50 Includes: 3 Course Sunday Lunch, service and Spice host Extras: Drinks Enjoy a first-class, fine dining experience over a three course Sunday lunch at the award-winning Chapter One restaurant, located just outside Orpington in Kent. Chapter One, the proud holder of four AA rosettes was most recently awarded the Kent Life Restaurant of the Year and Chef of the Year award. The restaurant offers a stylish and sophisticated dining experience that’s contemporary and cosmopolitan. Serving exceptional European cooking using only the most seasonal and fresh ingredients, Chapter One has now earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the country’s top restaurants. Executive Head Chef Andrew McLeish and his team have created an impressive modern menu and, on this occasion, we are sampling from their delicious three-course Sunday Lunch. This is an lovely event in every way, so book now as spaces are limited.
Greenwich Naval College and Maritime Museum Stroll
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: Exit Greenwich Maritime DLR Cutty Sark, London (SE10 9SW) Exit of Station Spice Sign 1pm to 4:30pm Cost: £7.50 Includes: Informal Stroll around Greenwich Naval College and National Maritime Museum and Spice Host Extras: Ticketed Exhibitions and buildings Join us for a leisurely stroll around Greenwich visiting the Naval College and The National Maritime Museum. This area is steeped in History with the magnificent Painted Hall often described as “the finest dining hall in Europe” designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor in 1698. James Thornhill who painted the interior of the dome in St Pauls Cathedral began his commission to decorate the Painted Hall in 1708 – a masterpiece. We will also visit the Chapel of St Peter and Paul with its magnificent ceiling and marble floor – true works of art. Then off to the National Maritime Museum which is the world’s largest maritime museum filled with inspirational stories of discovery and adventure at Sea. We will stop for refreshments during the stroll or you could try the beer at the Old Brewery. This is an informal stroll around Greenwich and is not a guided tour, we will be wandering around from building to building to see what we can see. The meet point is the Exit of Greenwich Maritime DLR Cutty Sark Station post code SE10 9SW.
Industrial Heritage Walk of Chelmsford in Essex
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: Old Marconi Building in Chelmsford, Essex (CM2 0DN) Meet: Junction of Milmay Road and Hall St, outside old Marconi Building 1:45pm Cost: £7.50 Includes: Guided Heritage Walk around Chelmsford, Spice Host Chelmsford has a rich and varied industrial heritage which includes many ground breaking inventions. During this walk we will cover a large number of these marvellous achievements. The variety is amazing and includes from the early years the location of a rope maker’s walk and one of the many local iron foundries. From the Victorian era there is the first Marconi radio factory, a generator house used for public street lighting and a steam omnibus factory. The commentary will also include the building of the railway through Chelmsford, the precise manufacture of ball bearings, the evolution of radio, radar and the early days of television. The tour is intended to last around 90mins and will cover a distance of under a mile. The walk starts at the junction of Mildmay Road and Hall Street outside the old Marconi building, CM2 0DN.
The Big Abseil - 200 Feet Straight Down
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: Avon Gorge, Portway, Bristol Layby on the Portway - email sent with directions 1:15pm to 4:30pm Cost: £38 Bristol has the amazing Avon Gorge with the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge symbolising this great city. But it’s not just a beautiful landmark – it’s also the setting for one of our greatest and most challenging events – The Big Abseil. What a great shot for your photo album! Go ahead and impress your family and friends with this classic Spice event. You will start off by literally ‘getting to know the ropes’ and receive full instruction on the techniques needed for your descent. Your instructor will build up your confidence and calm your nerves before you progress onto the impressive 200-foot descent. Don’t forget to admire the impressive views whilst you’re up there. So do you have the nerve to take on this exhilarating, adrenalin pumping challenge? Our session is in the afternoon and we’ll be in the capable hands of the experienced instructors from Mendip Outdoor Pursuits. Remember this event has limited slots and we offer out to members of the other Spice groups. Final details will be sent out 1 week prior.
Wine Tour Tasting and Afternoon Tea at Kingscote Estate W Sussex
Date: Sunday 24th April 2016 Place: Kingscote Vineyards, Mill Place Farm, Vowels Lane, East Grinstead (RH19 4LG) Spice host at the entrance 2pm Cost: £42 Includes: Tour of Vinery plus tasting, followed by afternoon tea on the Estate, Spice host Extras: You can purchase wine in the gift shop Kingscote Estate is a 150-acre site set in the beautiful Kingscote Valley near East Grinstead in West Sussex. It sits between the historic Bluebell Steam Railway and Weir Wood Reservoir. It is a tourism destination specialising in food and drink education and experiences. Today we will be touring the Kingscote Vinery and sampling 2 of Kingscote Estate’s premium wines, produced by award-winning executive winemaker Owen Elias. Following the tour we will enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea with delicious sandwiches, scones with cream and jam along with freshly baked cakes, served with tea or coffee. As an added point of interest it is possible to arrive by steam railway from East Grinstead on the Bluebell line. The station at Kingscote is 2/3 mile away down a pretty lane.
Tony Tobin Gourmet Dining - Reigate
Date: Tuesday 26th April 2016 Place: 59a High Street, Reigate (RH2 2LR) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £39.50 for 3 courses Includes: 3 Course Gourmet dining experience, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Join Spice this evening as we experience Tony Tobin’s gourmet cooking. Tony is well known to viewers of the BBC's Ready Steady Cook having appeared on the show over 300 times. The dishes that he brings to The Dining Room imaginatively combine classic ingredients in new styles that help to redefine the 'modern British' genre. Tonight we’ll be having a 3 course set seasonal menu: some sample dishes from previous menus are: starter choices of Flat Mushroom Soup, Garlic Chicken Salad, Grilled Chorizo or King Prawn Risotto. For main course there have been offerings such as Grilled Fillet Steak Burger, Seared Atlantic Salmon, Roasted Chicken breast with Parma Ham or Chunky Vegetable Laksa with sticky coconut rice. Then we will round off the dinner with dessert delights like Sticky Toffee Pudding and Vanilla Ice Cream, White Chocolate Crème Caramel or Peach and Custard Tart which will certainly tempt the taste buds.
Live Music and Drinks - Dion Bar, St Pauls
Date: Wednesday 27th April 2016 Place: Paternoster House, 65 St Pauls Churchyard (EC4M 8AB) Ground Floor Bar - Spice Sign 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: booking fee and Spice host Includes: Welcome drink, Glass of wine, beer or soft drink, 1 Course light supper, Live music and service charge. Dion St Paul’s runs parallel with St Paul’s cathedral and has stunning views overlooking the cathedral and grounds. It has a capacity of 300 with ground and basement level, and an outside seating area - the perfect setting to enjoy your favourite tipple. Meet in the bar from 7pm and enjoy a welcome drink of a glass of wine, beer or soft drink. You can choose a supper dish from a Spice menu such as Club Sandwich with thick chips, Homemade Beef Burger and thick chips, Goujons of fish with fries, Cheese Platter, Jerk Chicken skewers with fries, Halloumi skewers with fries or Crispy duck pancakes with fries. Wednesday nights are when the All Stars band play at dion St. Paul’s. A key date in the City diary, with the opportunity to experience some of the finest session musicians in the world playing in the comfort and luxury of the City’s best champagne and wine bar. They start early, with mellow sets to wind you down after work and then build the mood and the tempo through the evening, finishing with some of the finest funk, soul and dance floor classics ever written. Dion is the only bar in the City to have a top band perform weekly, offering the same quality of entertainment that would be found in a West End Jazz club.
Spring BeerFest at Bavarian Beerhouse
Date: Wednesday 27th April 2016 Place: The Arches, 9 Crutched Friars, London (EC3N 2AU) Bavarian Beerhouse - Spice Table 7pm Cost: £21 Includes: Spring Fest, 1 Course Meal, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Tonight we’ll be bringing Oktoberfest forward a few months with the “Spring Festival” at Bavarian Beerhouse. With live Oompah music, dancing and plenty of German beer served in Stein glasses there's no excuse not to get involved and join in with all the fun. A fun venue at any time of the year, the Bavarian Beerhouse is the only authentic Bavarian restaurant & bar in the United Kingdom. It’s a small piece of Bavaria transferred to London, complete with Lederhosen, oompah music and Bavarian dancers. Eating, drinking and entertainment are strongly encouraged. Needless to say there are copious amounts of beer, served in Steins by an all-German team of waitresses in traditional Bavarian outfits, and an all-German male team behind the bar. Included in our price is a Main Course Meal. Date: Place: Cost:
Theatre - Jersey Boys
Wednesday 27th April 2016 Piccadilly Theatre, 16 Denman Street, London (W1D 7DY) Meet at entrance to foyer - Spice sign 7pm £42.50 Stalls Seats Includes: Discounted Ticket, (Public Price £67) booking fee, Spice host. Excellent seats in the Stalls, rows L and M. Sorry we cannot refund on tickets unless we are able to resell your ticket for you. You know their songs...now discover their story. JERSEY BOYS, the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons is on at the Prince Edward Theatre, London. Discover the rags-torock-to-riches tale of four boys working their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of international pop stardom. Featuring all the classic hits: Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry, Can't Take My Eyes Off You, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye), Working My Way Back To You, Walk Like A Man, December 1963 (Oh What A Night) and more.
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Sailing Cross Channel Race - Cowes to St Vaast
Thursday 28th Apr 2016 - Mon 2nd May 2016 Gosport Marina, Mumby Road, Gosport. Hampshire (PO12 1AH) Arrive for 8.00p.m. on Thursday £420 sharing (Deposit £50) includes: 4 nights on board in sharing cabins, diesel, wet weather gear, life harnesses, breakfasts, lunches, tea and coffee Extras: evening meals and marina charges We meet up on Thursday evening at Gosport Marina ready for a day of practice and preparation on Friday. The race starts off Cowes at 1830 on Friday evening and we race through the night the 85 miles to St Vaast on the Cherbourg peninsular. We are likely to get there around midday on Saturday. On Sunday we have a choice. We could leave early and take the tide round to Cherbourg to have a meal there before setting back or we could spend the day in St Vaast and leave from there. The sail back to Gosport will be a second overnight sail.
Swing, Motown and Dinner at Sarastros
Date: Thursday 28th April 2016 Place: Sarastros, 126 Drury Lane, London (WC2B 5SU) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £42.50 Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Live Music and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Sarastro, named for a character in Mozart’s Magic Flute is known as ‘the show after the show’. The restaurant in Drury Lane is a rich tapestry of flamboyant artwork, gilt furniture and wall mounted opera boxes which provide a spectacular view of the interior. On Thursday evenings Sarastro’s has a live Swing and Motown evening performed by Colin Roy singing classics by legends such as Frank Sinatra, the Drifters, The Temptations and Lionel Richie. We will be having a special Cabaret menu – sample menu may include dishes such as shared mezze of Hummus, Tzatsiki, Cous Cous salad Cheese and Mushrooms Borek. There is a choice of main course for example Lamb, Salmon, Chicken or Penne Arrabiata Pasta. For dessert there are dishes such as panna cotta, black forest gateau or fresh fruit salad.
Friday Night Boogie on Down at Ruby Blues
Date: Friday 29th April 2016 Place: Leicester Place, Leicester Square, London (WC2H 7BP) at the Spice Table 6:30pm Cost: £19.50 Includes: Sharing platters, one glass of wine or beer, service charge & host Extras: Additional drinks Join Spice for a Friday night social and boogie at Ruby Blues in the heart of the West End. Ruby Blue prides itself in its decadent décor, smart themed rooms and unique views of Leicester Square from the balcony. Friday night’s music is the latest party anthems to have a boogie to! Our evening includes sharing platters and a glass of wine or beer. The food will be served at 7.45pm so arrive early and don’t miss your share! There is an entry fee payable if you arrive after 9pm. Dress to impress and we will see you there.
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Walking Weekend Hadrian's Wall and Gilsland Spa
Fri 29th Apr 2016 - Mon 2nd May 2016 Gilsland Spa Hotel, Gilsland, Hadrian's Wall, Cumbria (CA8 7AR) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £239 Twin Share, £299 Single (Deposit £45 Twin Share, £55 Single) Includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches, 3 evening meals, 3 days of guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used WalkWise Overview: Hadrian’s Wall is the most famous and impressive Roman fortification in the Roman Empire. The best preserved sections of the wall lie between Lanercost Priory in the West and Chesters Cavalry Fort in the East and it is no coincidence that this also happens to encompass the wildest, most inaccessible and arguably the most beautiful landscape with dramatic ridges, open moors, long escarpments, lochs and deep river valleys. The bank holiday walking programme of 6 walks over the three days concentrates on the very finest sections of the wall and the surrounding area.
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Walking Weekend Plymouth, South Devon and Cornish Coasts
Fri 29th Apr 2016 - Mon 2nd May 2016 Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth, Devon (PL1 3LG) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £249 Twin Share, £309 Single (Deposit £45 Twin Share, £55 Single) includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches, 3 evening meals, 3 days of guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used WalkWise Overview: This is a great opportunity to explore another stretch of our amazing south west coastline, The stunningly South Cornish Coast and the beautiful South Devon coastline are some of England's finest, and this alone is more than enough reason to visit! Towering cliffs and rugged headlands are all lapped by inviting Mediterranean blue waters, and in between are secluded sandy bays and quaint fishing hamlets. Deep estuaries dramatically cut their way inland, carving beautiful isolated peninsulas. Along the way we will call into picturesque villages and enjoy the hospitality of the inviting cafes or welcoming country inns.
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Walking Weekend Spring into Windermere and Ambleside
Fri 29th Apr 2016 - Mon 2nd May 2016 Windermere Hydro Hotel, Windermere, Lake District (LA23 3BA) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £269 Twin Share, £344 Single (Deposit £50 Twin Share, £60 Single) includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches, 3 evening meals, 3 guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: Bowness-on-Windermere is one of our favourite destinations. We have a great hotel, great location, great town, oh and great walking too!!! This is a wonderful time of year to be in here with a great sense of life in the countryside and a great vibe in the local pubs and inns, so we are ensured some cracking evenings too! The Hydro is one of the oldest Lake District hotels and it blends a mixture of Victorian elegance with modern leisure facilities. It’s in an ideal location, just set back from the village of Bowness-on-Windermere which affords spectacular views over Lake Windermere.
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Fri 29th Apr 2016 - Mon 2nd May 2016 Lluest Fach, Foal, Mid Wales (SY21 0PB) Arrive from 5.00p.m. £74 Camping, £92 bunks Includes: campsite, Party with BBQ, Barrel of beer, cider £16.00 supplement for dormitory Accommodation subject to availability) Escape from the city this Bank Holiday for an outdoor experience with a difference! Our camping venue is a private site and is exclusive to Spice for the weekend. A working smallholding which is very secluded, situated high up on the side of the beautiful Banwy Valley, with breathtaking views, a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
Welsh Camping Long Weekend
Historic and Secret Clerkenwell with Ian Jelf
Date: Saturday 30th April 2016 Place: Angel Tube Station, London (N1 9LJ) at the exit - Spice Sign 11am Cost: £15 Includes: 2 hour guided tour Come and enjoy some good company and the chance to explore one of the most elusive parts of London, a historic enclave on the fringe of the City itself. Clerkenwell is one of our most historic and yet secret areas, so on this walk Ian will be getting into some of those nooks and crannies that you only ever discover on foot. Everything seems to get a look in: waterworks, executions, monks and a corner of the City which feels like its Mayfair! We meet at the exit from Angel Station and end a couple of hours later near Barbican.
Saturday Night Funkynation at Ronnie Scotts
Date: Saturday 30th April 2016 Place: 47 Frith Street, Soho, London (W1D 4HT) Upstairs Ronnie Scotts Bar 7:30pm Cost: £20 Includes: Reserved area, DJ Music, Sharing Platters, Service charge Spice Host Extras: Drinks, and Door Charge of £10.00 after 8pm Tonight we are heading to the popular venue of Ronnie Scotts for their Saturday Funkynation disco night with the very best DJ’s playing jazz, funk, soul, 80’s boogie and vintage grooves. We will have a reserved area so you can keep your toes tapping, or maybe have a boogie on the dance floor. We will be having some sharing platters such as meat, cheese or deliboards at 8.15 so please arrive before this so you don’t miss out. This is a great way to meet other members and have a fun night. The music kicks off at 8.00pm. There will be an additional door Charge of £10 if you arrive after 8pm so please arrive before this time.
Saturday Night Comedy - Italian Supper and Tattershall Castle
Date: Saturday 30th April 2016 Place: Fratelli La Bufala, 35-37 Villiers Street, London (WC2N 6ND) Ask for Spice Table 6:30pm Cost: £29.50 Includes: ticket, booking fee, pizza & pasta supper and Spice host This is one of the very best comedy nights in London, we get lots of repeat bookings for this evening so why not treat yourself to a ticket. The Comedy is held on the Tattershall Castle boat, which is permanently moored at Victoria Embankment. The 130 seats sell out and this is a very popular Spice night out so do book early to secure you place as we have a limited amount of tickets. Many of comedy’s greatest stars have played or started their careers here including Graham Norton, Jerry Sadowitz, Dylan Moran, Mark Thomas, Harry Hill, Michael McIntyre and Ross Noble. For this event we meet for an Italian pizza & pasta supper first so that you can socialize and have some food before we go to the comedy. Please aim to arrive at the restaurant for 6.30p.m. as we need to leave by 7.30p.m. to get to the boat for the Comedy. Our comedy Spice host will meet you at the restaurant and take everyone to the Tattershall Castle as a group. After the comedy has finished the tables are cleared away and there is a disco and dancing if you want to extend your evening.
Spice U40 - Speak Easy Cocktails at Callooh Callay
Date: Saturday 30th April 2016 Place: 65 Rivington Street, London (EC2A 3AY) At the bar, before moving onto the hidden lounge bar 7pm Cost: £4 Includes: Booking for the hidden lounge, Spice host Extras: Drinks The menu is housed in an empty cassette case, the toilet is hidden behind a secret door in the wall and the cocktails have such cringe-o names as 'Ume? Yes You' and 'Fennel Countdown'. This is a bar that doesn’t take itself seriously, but is deadly serious about its drinks. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the interesting selection of drinks and the music is great. The exposed brick walls, neither trashy nor pretentious, the vibe here is fun but still stylish, and, very cosy.
Tour of BBC Broadcasting House and Lunch
Date: Saturday 30th April 2016 Place: Portland Place London (W1A 1AA) Spice host tours entrance – spice sign 12:40pm Cost: £36.50 Includes: Guided tour and 2 course lunch Extras: Drinks What a fantastic opportunity to see what goes on behind those famous doors! Built in 1932, Broadcasting House was the UK's first ever purpose-built broadcast centre, and has recently gone through major restoration and modernisation. The entertaining and informative guides will bring to life the work the brand new, state of the art, multimedia broadcasting centre does in the heart of London. On a tour some of the things you're likely to experience include a camera's eye view via our big screen into some of the studios broadcasting to the nation, including television and radio news studios, as well as hearing about the rich history of the building and the BBC. After our tour we will head to a local restaurant for a 2 course lunch.
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Guided Bluebell & Wildflower Walk at Nymans Gardens
Date: Saturday 30 April 2016 Place: Nymans, Handcross, Near Haywards Heath, W. Sussex RH17 6EB – Ticket Office 10:30am Cost: £16.50 Includes: Guided walk in woods, entrance and Spice host Extras: Refreshments Join us for a lovely guided walk through the delightful bluebell woods at Nymans in West Sussex. Our guide from Nymanswill take us for a 1.5 hour walk through the woodlands taking in the splendid displays of spring wild flowers and carpets of bluebells. Our event includes entry to the gardens and house so after the walk we can stroll around the rest of the gardens where you will discover intriguing ruins, statues, lakes and cascades and an array of different planting.
Lunch with Free - Flowing Prosecco on the R.S. Hispaniola Boat
Date: Sunday 1st May 2016 Place: Hispaniola, Victoria Embankment, London (WC2N 5DJ) Ask for Spice table 1pm Cost: £38.50 Includes: 2 Courses, Free flowing Prosecco for 1.5 hours, service charge and Spice host Join us for a two course lunch with free-flowing Prosecco for 1.5 hours on the R S Hispaniola boat moored on the Embankment. From the deck you will find magnificent views overlooking Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and beyond.
Archery at Groombridge Place, Kent
Date: Sunday 1st May 2016 Place: Groombridge Place, Groombridge Hill, Kent (TN3 9QG) host - entrance 10am Cost: £26 Includes: 2 hour archery session & instruction Extras: Entrance Groombridge Place Calling all budding Robin Hoods and Maid Marians! Join us in the beautiful surroundings of Groombridge Place to try your hand at hitting the target. We have a 2 hour session which will include instruction. This event is suitable for complete beginners, experienced archers and anyone in between. You should wear comfortable loose clothing and be prepared for rain. The event is held in a field so you are also recommended to wear sturdy footwear.
Murder Mystery Trail in Covent Garden
Date: Sunday 1st May 2016 Place: Pret A Manger, 77 St Martins Lane, London (WC2N 4AA) Inside Pret A Manger 11am Cost: £10 Includes: Organised Murder Mystery Trail and Spice Host Extras: Refreshments Join us for a fun Murder Mystery Trail around Covent Garden. As you follow the Trail route, can you solve the sneaky clues set on existing buildings, permanent features and monuments to eliminate the suspects to discover whodunit? We’ll meet at Pret A Manger and will then begin our mystery at Leicester Square tube station before visiting Seven Dials, Neals Yard and Drury Lane. Fascinating history and intriguing shops await our discovery as we finish with a clue hunt around the main Covent Garden Piazza. The trail will take a couple of hours and we will meet at the end of the trail at a pub in the area.
Sunday Lunch and Jazz at The Wharf Waterside Restaurant
Date: Sunday 1st May 2016 Place: The Wharf, 22 Manor Road, Teddington, Middlesex (TW11 8BG) Ask for Spice Table 12:30pm Cost: £32 for 2 courses, £35 for 3 courses Includes: 2 or 3 course lunch, service charge, live jazz & host Extras: Drinks The Wharf is a contemporary restaurant in Teddington offering an eclectic mix of modern European cuisine with some vibrant Asian influences, in a stunning location overlooking the River Thames. Today we are going to be enjoying great food and we can relax to the sounds of Tracy Ray and the Mojos.
Take Part in the London to Brighton Vintage Commercial Vehicle Run
Date: Sunday 1st May 2016 Place: Crystal Palace Park, Bromley. Kent (SE19 2GA) Alternative pick up at Three Bridges Station, Crawley 8am Cost: £45 Includes: Place on the Brighton Belle Vintage Coach, Spice host Extras: Refreshments, own transport costs Here’s an event with a difference! We are lucky enough to be able to take part in the London to Brighton Vintage Commercial Vehicle Run which takes place each year on the first Sunday in May. The London to Brighton Run of the Historic Commercial Vehicle Society is one of the best of the year's road vehicle events. Around 200 vehicles are entered, covering a wide range of both historic periods and commercial functions. Participating commercial vehicles are more than 20 years old. The Society, which was formed in 1958, currently has around 3,000 members who between them have more than 7,500 vehicles. There are 15 classes of vehicles, encompassing various grades of lorries, vans, buses, coaches, fire engines, taxis, tractor units, steam wagons and tractors. We have spaces on the Brighton Belle Vintage Coach which has 21 seats as well as tables. Bring along a picnic to have on the coach and we can also get further refreshments once we’re in Brighton.
Dinner and Champagne Cocktail in the Winter Garden
Date: Tuesday 3rd May 2016 Place: The Landmark Hotel, 222 Marylebone Rd (NW1 6JQ) Winter Garden Restaurant 7pm Cost: £46 Includes: Champagne Cocktail, Three Course Dinner, Service Charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Join us for a Champagne Cocktail and a three course dinner at the wonderful Winter Garden Restaurant at five star hotel, The Landmark Hotel in Marylebone. This restaurant has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes for its great European Cuisine and its setting at the heart of the soaring 8-storey glass roof atrium with magnificent palm trees and beautifully picturesque surroundings. The Winter Garden is truly a wonderful haven in which to enjoy excellent classic cuisine. See the sample seasonal menu on the website, some dishes may have supplements.
Fun Pub Quiz in Central London
Date: Wednesday 4th May 2016 Place: Theodore Bullfrog, 26 John Adam Street, London (WC2N 6HL) In Upstairs bar - Spice tables Spice Sign 6:30pm Cost: £12 Includes: entrance to quiz and some sharing bucket food and Spice host Extras: Drinks The Theodore Bullfrog has a quiz tonight so we thought we would pop along and enter a team or two. We will meet in the bar downstairs, our Spice host will have a Spice sign and we can get some drinks from the bar. Then we will head for our table – it will be booked but it might be upstairs as this is where the quiz is. It is a fun general knowledge quiz with prizes for the top 4 teams. We will be joining other teams, so why not join us for a fun cheap night out.
Regent Canal Easy Stroll and Floating Chinese Dinner
Date: Wednesday 4th May 2016 Place: Warwick Avenue Tube Station (W9 1AL) At Warwick Avenue Tube - Spice Sign 6:45pm Cost: £32 Includes: Stroll Little Venice - Camden, 2 Course Meals, Service Charge & Host Extras: Drinks, Deserts & Coffee This is a gentle stroll from Little Venice along the Regent's Canal finishing off in Camden. Along the way we will be stopping for a meal at the picturesque Chinese floating Restaurant, The Feng Shang Princess, set in the splendour of London's Regents Park. Over the years it has been a favourite Chinese eatery, including celebrities from the world of film, music and TV.
Spice U40 Meet And Eat at French Brasserie Zédel
Date: Thursday 5th May 2016 Place: Zedel, 20 Sherwood Street, London (W1F 7ED) Spice Table 7pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Table booking and Spice Host, Extras: food and drinks Another new venue for our Spice U40 with something a little different. French sophistication at humble prices, a must visit for the grand Art deco building and the live swing band that plays nightly. French cuisine set in the grand art deco basement brassiere. Affordable French staples are the big draw and set menus start at under a tenner.
Canary Wharf Walk and Turkish Lunch at Hazev
Date: Saturday 7th May 2016 Place: All Bar One, 42 Mackenzie Walk, Canary Wharf (E14 5EH) In Bar at All Bar One 11am Cost: £22 Includes: Guided walk & lunch at Turkish Restaurant Hazev and Service Charge Extras: Drinks Join us for an easy two and a half mile walk around the docks in Canary Wharf then a wonderful Turkish meal at the waterside restaurant Hazev. This is a wonderful area which has undergone some extraordinary changes in its history. Once marshland, it was reclaimed by trading companies to build secure docks. From these beginnings grew the Docklands, which during its heyday had as many as 50,000 people working there. Heavily bombed during the war, the area enjoyed a brief resurgence in the 1950s but, with containerization, the Docklands gradually fell into decline. By 1980 the docks were closed with the loss of thousands of jobs. After our walk we will make our way to Hazev Restaurant which brings you the authentic taste of traditional.
Hippodrome - Ratpack In Vegas and Pre-Show Dinner
Date: Saturday 7th May 2016 Place: Hippodrome, Cranbourne Street, Leicester Square, London (WC2H 7JH) First Floor bar - Spice sign 6:25pm Cost: £67 Ticket & Dinner, Includes: ticket to show, stalls table seat, 2 course dinner, host & booking fee Extras: Drinks The Rat Pack epitomised ‘cool’ in the 1960′s. Their impromptu sell out shows caused a stir and attracted the rich and famous. It was a must have ticket to see the three artists joke and sing some of the finest songs ever written. Stephen Triffitt, George Daniel Long and Mark Adams have faithfully re-created that era for more than 10 years. These guys are “The Definitive Rat Pack’ and have been seen live by more than 1 million people worldwide.
Saturday Night Social and Dancing at the Aviary Bar
Date: Saturday 7th May 2016 Place: 16 Little Portland Street, Near Oxford Circus, London (W1W 8BP) at the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £27 Includes: Canapes, glass of wine or beer, service charge, Spice host Extras: Additional drinks Join us for a Friday night social at a venue with a difference! Described as ‘The Quirkiest Bar In London’, The Aviary Bar has a unique décor, complete with fish tank and lit dancefloor. Tonight we are getting together to enjoy a social evening with other Spice members. We have a reserved area and have included canapes and a glass of wine or beer in our evening. The canapes will be arriving at 8.00pm so please arrive before this so you don’t miss out.
The View from the Shard - London
Date: Saturday 7th May 2016 Place: The View from the Shard, Joiner Street Entrance, London (SE1 9SG) Meet: Entrance to the View - Spice Sign 12:45pm Cost: £34.95 Includes: Entrance ticket, Booking Fee, Host Extras: Drinks/food optional The Shard is an iconic, landmark building on the London skyline, designed by Master Architect Renzo Piano. At a height of 1,016ft (310m), the tallest building in Western Europe, the Shard redefines London’s skyline. Join Spice today as we journey to the top of the city to see the most incredible views of London. The View is situated at the top of The Shard, on floors 68, 69 and 72, and is almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in London. Prepare to embark on a multi-sensory journey to 244m (800ft) above one of the greatest cities on earth. On arrival at Level 00, we will be drawn into the tapestry of London with glimpses of the city laid out before us. Travelling skyward in two high-speed ‘kaleidoscopic’ lifts, we’ll swiftly reach Level 68 - a cloudscape above the world.
Tour of Apsley House and Wellington Arch plus Lunch
Date: Sunday 8th May 2016 Place: Apsley House, Hyde Park Corner (W1J 7NT) Meet at Entrance - Spice sign 11am Cost: £28. Includes: Entrance to Apsley House & Wellington Arch, 1 course Lunch, Service Charge & Host Extras: Drinks and Coffees Spend a cultural morning in London viewing both Apsley House and The Wellington Arch. First we will visit Apsley House with the grand address of “Number One London” home to the Duke of Wellington after his victory over Napoleon at Waterloo. You will then be taken across to the Wellington Arch where we can take the lift to the balconies just below the spectacular bronze sculpture giving you glorious views over London's Royal Parks and the Houses of Parliament. Inside the Arch you can view its fascinating history, including its time as London's smallest police station.
Cycling for Fun - Royal London Bike Tour
Date: Sunday 8th May 2016 Place: Queensway Tube Station, London (W2 4SS) Fat Tire Sign & guide 10:45am Cost: £20 Includes bike hire and Fat Tire Bike Tours guide Why not join us on a bike tour with Fat Tire Bike Tours? This is a leisurely-paced way to see London like you’ve never seen it before! With an informative and entertaining guide, this will be a fun day out. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and goes ahead, rain or shine. The tours maximize the bike paths and cycle lanes through the Royal Parks so there is very little street biking. Highlights of the tour include: Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben and Kensington Gardens. This is not a fast paced tour and really quite leisurely with plenty stops to hear from your guide about the various tourist attractions along the route. You need to dress for the weather on the day and take waterproof, wind-breaker, gloves and scarf or sunglasses and sun cream. Take cash for a refreshment stop.
Imperial War Museum Visit and Lunch
Date: Sunday 8th May 2016 Place: IWM London, Lambeth Road, London (SE1 6HZ) Main Entrance - Spice Sign 11am Cost: £24 Includes: Visit to the Imperial War Museum, 2 course Meal, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks The Imperial War Museum London tells the story of those whose lives have been shaped by war from the First World War to the present day. It has recently unveiled one of the most astounding historical exhibitions to mark the centenary of World War I, after meticulously creating a sensory assault to immerse the visitor in one of the most horrifying moments in British memory. From personal letters, to tanks, and shells from Big Bertha, IWM London intended to make the First World War galleries as all-encompassing as possible. "Each of the objects on display will give a voice to the people who created them, used them or cared for them," said IWM's director general. “It will also reveal stories not only from their suffering, destruction and loss but also endurance and innovation, duty and devotion, comradeship and love." After visiting the museum we will head off to the delightful Turkish Restaurant Koza for a 2 course meal. There are many choices on the menu with cold and hot meze starters and then traditional dishes like Saslik, Kofte and Shish Kebab for mains.
Cook Your Own Curry at Preem
Date: Monday 9th May 2016 Place: Preem, 120 Brick Lane, London (E1 6RL) Meet Inside 7pm Cost: £32 Includes: Tuition & recipes, 2 course meal, 2 drinks Extras: Additional drinks We have found a wonderful Indian Restaurant in Brick Lane who host Cook Your Own Curry Nights! Curry being a very popular dish amongst Spice members we thought you might like to learn how to cook a real curry and then enjoy tasting the results. You need to arrive promptly for 7.00p.m as at 7.15p.m. the first stage of your cooking will begin. You will learn how to make a tasty Indian starter and a main course dish of curry. In between testing your cooking skills you will of course be eating the tasty dishes you have created. Included in the price of the evening is your meal, poppadoms and 2 complimentary drinks. There are only 8 slots per evening so you need to book your slot real quick!
Dorking Social and Meal at Viva Italian
Date: Tuesday 10th May 2016 Place: Red Lounge Bar, Dene Street, Dorking (RH4 2DW) Red Lounge Bar 7:30pm Cost: £17.50 Includes: Pizza or Pasta Main Course and Dessert, Service Charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Tonight we have our social evening and meal in Dorking, and it’s a great time to join us and catch up with other Spice members in the area. Tonight we’re off to Viva a traditional Italian Restaurant in West Street to sample their authentic homemade Pizza and Pasta. We’ll be dining off a set menu of Italian Pizza and Pasta dishes followed by a traditional dessert. We meet at the Red Bar in Dorking first for a chat and a drink before heading to Viva which is close by. Your Spice host for the evening will be there to meet you and take the group to the restaurant.
Spice U40 Fun Game of Ping Pong at Bounce
Date: Tuesday 10th May 2016 Place: Bounce Farringdon, 121 Holborn, London (EC1N 2TD) In the Bar at Bounce 7:30pm Cost: £12 Includes: Reserved Piing Pong Tables and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Back by popular demand! Spice U40 members, your calls have been answered. After the success of the last event, Spice shall return to the Ping Pong extravaganza that is Bounce Restaurant. Bounce is a great 1950’s style themed cocktail bar and restaurant with 17 Ping Pong (Table Tennis) Tables. We will first meet in the bar at Bounce where you can limber up your batting hand with a drink! We have tables booked for this fun evening where you can try your hand at an easy knock about on the Ping Pong tables. We went a couple of months ago and it was great fun, we had ping pong balls flying everywhere (so did everyone else on the other tables!). They supply you with lots and lots ping pong balls, so you don’t need to collect the balls. People come straight from work, so you don’t need any sports gear, just come as you are (flatish shoes are helpful!).
Theatre - Motown The Musical
Date: Wednesday 11th May 2016 Place: Shaftesbury Theatre, 210 Shaftesbury Avenue, (WC2H 8DP) Entrance to Foyer - Spice Sign 7pm Cost: £55 Royal Circle Includes: Discounted ticket, booking fee and Spice host. Public price - £69.50 Excellent Seats in the Royal Circle Row E & F With just $800 borrowed from his family, Motown founder Berry Gordy, went from featherweight boxer to heavyweight music mogul, discovering and launching the careers of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and many more. Motown The Musical uncovers the story of the legendary record label that changed music history and created the soundtrack of a generation. Featuring an 18 piece orchestra playing 50 Motown tracks including “My Girl”, “Dancing In The Street”, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I Heard It Through The Grapevine”, Motown The Musical is a musical sensation with real soul.
Wine Bar Social at the Cork and Bottle Leicester Square
Date: Thursday 12th May 2016 Place: 44-46 Cranbourne Street, London (WC2H 7AN) Spice table 6:45pm Cost: £3.50 Member plus pay as you go Includes: Spice table booking and Spice host Extras: Drinks and food Join us at the Cork and Bottle Wine Bar for our Wine Bar Social evening. This legendary wine bar in Leicester Square is an iconic venue for wine lovers around the world. Its philosophy is that great wine deserves great food! Our evening is on a pay as you go basis so you just book in the usual way, then on the evening you pay for any food and drinks that you have. Spice will have a table booked and we will organise a Spice host for the evening who will be there to meet you at the table.
Meet and Eat at Turtle Bay, Crawley
Date: Thursday 12th May 2016 Place: 100 High Street, Crawley (RH10 1BZ) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: Spice booking fee and host Extras: Food, Drinks and service charge Join us for a Caribbean Social of rum, reggae and jerk at Crawley’s popular Turtle Bay restaurant. Dishes include one pot mains that are rich, slowly simmered & uniquely Caribbean (Caribbean fish curry, curry goat, Jamaican browned chicken and much more). With its unique flavours & fantastic aromas the jerk pit is the ultimate Caribbean barbecue. Succulent authentic jerk dishes marinated with herbs & spices & flame grilled to order over allspice & thyme wood is also available. Delicious puddings such as BBQ pineapple, rum cake, rum and raison pudding are also on the menu. Not forgetting the cocktails, rum is tropical Caribbean sunshine, bottled, and has been intricately woven into the rich history and culture of the islands for centuries, celebrated at Turtle Bay with over 40 rums sourced from across the Caribbean, perfect for sipping and cocktail.
Chateaubriand or Lobster and Bubbly at The Crazy Bear Fitzrovia
Date: Friday 13th May 2016 Place: 26-28 Whitfield Street, Fitzrovia, London (W1T 2RG) Ask for the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £36 Includes: Chateaubriand or Lobster, shared side dish glass of Champagne, Service charge and Spice Host Extras: Additional drinks and desserts Winner of ‘Best Restaurant’ at the London Lifestyle Awards, Crazy Bear Fitzrovia brings sumptuous Thai cuisine and oriental spice to this vibrant hub of London. Join us for a sumptuous dinner of either 250g of Chateaubriand or 500g of Lobster with a glass of Champagne. Or why not share between two people the Chateaubriand and Lobster and have Surf and Turf! It’s a glitzy and eclectic hangout with champagne, cocktails and wine served up at the award-winning Crazy Bear bar. It is recommended by Via Michelin and Hardens dining guides as a, contemporary Thai dining experience with a backdrop featuring funky design, an Art Deco chandelier and leather walls. See the menu on our website www.spicelondon.co.uk
Drinks with a View at St Georges Hotel
Date: Friday 13th May 2016 Place: Langham Place, Regent Street, London (W1B 2QS) The Heights-Take lift to Bar-Spice Sign 7pm Cost: £18 Includes: Tapas Nibbles, Service Charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks th Join us for a social evening with Tapas at The Heights Bar and Restaurant on the 15 Floor of the Saint Georges Hotel just off Regent Street. The Heights bar offers stunning views of London through the "Wall of Windows", allowing you to gaze over the rushing city below. This is a great social event to meet up with other Spice members and if you are new to Spice don’t worry our host will introduce you to other members. There will be some shared Tapas dishes served at around 7.45 so please arrive in time or you may miss the food! This is a great way to round off the week and start the weekend!
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Horse Riding Weekend for Beginners and Improvers
Fri 13th May 2016 - Sun 15th May 2016 Springhill Farm, Near Oswestry, Shropshire (SY10 7NZ) Arrive from 4.00p.m. £190 Dorm Share, (Deposit £40) includes: two nights’ accommodation, 1 cooked breakfast, 1 continental breakfast, Friday night buffet, Saturday night meal and horse riding as outlined in the write up Included in the price of the weekend is a 1 hour lesson on the Saturday morning where your ability will be assessed and you will be matched up with a Horse/Pony for the weekend. On Saturday afternoon we will be split into groups and will go out in the beautiful countryside for a 1 1/2 hour hack (ride out to those not familiar with the horsey lingo!). On the Sunday morning we will have the choice of whether we use our final hour to go out for a hack or have another lesson to improve our skills. For those who are really keen there is the option on the weekend to book and pay for a further ride in the afternoon. In addition to the riding, there is the option of helping out around the stable yard grooming the horses, tacking up and to muck out - yes, that's right!!!! poo picking but this is of course completely optional. We stay on the farm in their upmarket Bunkhouse with rooms sleeping from 2 to 6. Facilities available include patio, lawn area, BBQ, outdoor chess, table tennis, activities in addition to the on-site horse riding, include archery and cycle hire and walking, all to help you relax and enjoy yourselves. Included in the weekend is a buffet meal on Friday evening, a cooked breakfast, packed lunch and evening meal on Saturday and a continental breakfast & packed lunch on Sunday. This is a self-catering venue so help with food preparation and of course cleaning up afterwards is all part of the weekend - please be prepared to muck in even if you aren't prepared to muck out!
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Fri 13 May - Mon 16 , Fri 17 Jun - Mon 20 , Fri 9 Sep - Mon 12 & Fri 14 Oct – Mon 17 Kalkara Wharf, Kalkara, Malta £384 Sharing, (Deposit £50) Includes: 3 nights on board in sharing cabins, breakfast, lunches and snacks on board. Wet weather gear and diesel. Extras: return flights to Malta. Evening meals ashore, drinks and marina fees. There are three main islands in the archipelago. Malta, Gozo and Comino. Malta is about 73 miles around; Gozo is about one third the size and Comino is only 5 miles in circumference. This means that we can cover a lot of territory in a weekend. There are some beautiful lagoons and beaches, many of which can only be reached by boat. There is also the evidence of 7,000 years of ever-changing culture as Malta has been frequently overrun due to its strategic location. Many Spicers take the opportunity to stay on after the sailing event to continue exploring the many attractions of these beautiful islands.
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Walking Weekend Derbyshire's Dales and Eastern Peaks
Fri 13th May 2016 - Sun 15th May 2016 The Makeney Hall Hotel, Derbyshire (DE56 0RS) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £179 Twin Share, £219 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £45 Single) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 evening meals, 2 picnic lunches, 2 guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: During this weekend we will be exploring not only the amazing Peak District but also the Amber and Derwent Valleys too. For this is the southern Peak District National Park which accentuates the exciting and beautiful scenery of the Peaks. This white or ‘light peak’ is typified by the fascinating limestone scenery, deep limestone gorges, exposed escarpments, lush flower-rich pastures and its famous underground cave systems plus pretty villages.
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Walking Weekend Sidmouth and the East Devon Coast
Fri 13th May 2016 - Sun 15th May 2016 The Sidholme Hotel in Sidmouth, Devon (EX10 8UJ) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £179 Twin Share, £219 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £45 Single) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals, 2 guided walks each day Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walking Overview: The South East Coast of Devon around Sidmouth is a quite simply a stunning stretch of coastline and a personal favourite of the many of the Walkwise guides. We have managed to negotiate a very rare summer date at the Sidholme Hotel in the heart of Sidmouth. This is a great venue, with excellent food and its own indoor swimming pool and leisure facilities, it lies in its own grounds and is just a stroll from the sea front of Sidmouth, The food is excellent, the lounges ooze warmth add in its charm and character and this is an ideal base to explore east Devon.
Brooklands - The 1940s Relived
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey (KT13 0QN) Brooklands Museum Main Entrance 11am Cost: £18 Includes: Entrance into The 1940s Relived, Spice host Extras: Refreshments This is a ticketed event; sorry there cannot be any refunds on these tickets unless we can resell your slot. Join us at Brooklands Museum as we turn back the clock to the decade of fashion, commemoration, style and celebration at our annual 1940s Relived event! This is a chance to put your hair up, grab your best period outfit and lace up the dance shoes. Stock up on vintage gear at our extensive vintage market, featuring some of the best vintage sellers around, providing everything from hats, suits and shoes to accessories, books and original memorabilia. Around the site you will find all the usual Museum exhibits, but you will never know what is around the next corner - you may find the Home Guard on parade or manning the Pill Box, an RAF Fighter Command Control Centre or US airborne troops carrying out demonstrations of infantry weapons and fire power. If all this activity gets a bit much, head down to the street party which, by popular demand, is back in the marquee behind the Motoring Sheds, where you will be able to refresh yourself with some food and drink.
Greek Party Dining - Live Music in Soho
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: The Real Greek, 50 Berwick Street, London (W1F 8SJ) Ask for the Spice table 7pm Includes: party menu of sharing food, service charge and Spice host Extras: Drinks Tonight we are heading to The Real Greek fun, party restaurant in Soho. Come along and celebrate all things Greek for a Saturday night out. We are having one of the party menus which offers a selection of dishes for us to share such as Greek Flatbread, Crudites, Houmous, Htipiti, Tropitakia, Chicken Skewers, Beef Meatballs, Halloumi Stack. This is a fun evening to catch up with other Spice members. There is live music starting at 7.30p.m. with Dan Olsen.
Saturday Night Comedy - Pub supper and Tattershall Castle
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: Theodore Bullfrog, 26 John Adam Street, London (WC2N 6HL) Ask for Spice Table 6:15pm Cost: £32 ticket and supper Includes: comedy ticket, pub one course meal, Spice host and booking fee Extras: Drinks This is one of the very best comedy nights in London, we get lots of repeat bookings for this evening so why not treat yourself to a ticket. The Comedy is held on the Tattershall Castle boat, which is permanently moored at Victoria Embankment. The 130 seats sell out and this is a very popular Spice night out so do book early to secure you place as we have a limited amount of tickets. Many of comedy’s greatest stars have played or started their careers here including Graham Norton, Jerry Sadowitz, Dylan Moran, Mark Thomas, Harry Hill, Michael McIntyre and Ross Noble. For this event we meet for a pub supper so we are meeting at the Theodore Bullfrog which is close to Charing Cross and Embankment tube stations.
MoonWalk London - Spice Team Steward
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: Clapham Common, London (SW4 9DE) Volunteer Entrance at MoonWalk City 5:30pm to 11:59pm We are looking for volunteers to join the Spice team of stewards at the Moon Walk in 2016. In previous years we have had lots of volunteers join in to support this worthwhile cause. We always have a tremendous fun evening so why not join us! Join Spice and Volunteer as a Team member to help ensure that the people walking in the marathon achieve their goal of completing the walk. (Please note that we are acting as volunteers/stewards and not taking part in the walk itself. Volunteering with Walk the Walk is one of the most fun, rewarding and unusual things you could ever do. As a volunteer, you will be giving up a few hours of your time to make a real difference. What better way to spend a night than having fun with other Spice members and helping raise money for a worthy cause. The MoonWalk attracts 15,000 participants and raises money for Walk the Walk, a breast cancer charity that makes grants available to support medical research but one that also funds emotional and physical care to those who already have cancer. If you would like to Volunteer as part of a Spice Team, please register on the Spice Website and we will ensure you are registered with Walk the Walk. More information about this Charity Event can be found on www.walkthewalk.org.
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Racing at Uttoxeter with The Human League
Saturday 14th May 2016 Uttoxeter, Staffordshire (ST14 8BD) 4.00pm £35 Includes: The Premier Enclosure, giving you access to all public areas on the course, viewing from Premier Grandstand, Access into the Premier Bar, Access into the Champagne Bar, Access to the Parade Ring, Access into the Betting Hall, Viewing from the Grandstand Steppings Extras: Drinks and refreshments The Human League Music Live race day is a not to be missed event! Soak up the thrilling racing atmosphere with a full programme of equine action, before dancing into the evening and singing along to hit after hit. Live music and racing? Sounds like the perfect Saturday evening to us! With four Top 10 albums and eight Top 10 singles in the UK as well as two US Number 1 singles, The Human League have sold more than 20 million records worldwide; and have been cited by everyone from Madonna to Moby, and The Pet Shop Boys to Robbie Williams, as an influence. The hits included Don't You Want Me, Human, (Keep Feeling) Fascination, Mirror Man and many more. There will be seven races which finish at 8.30pm when the music starts. Our ticket will include: The Premier Enclosure, giving you access to all public areas on the course, Superb Viewing from Premier Grandstand, Access into the Premier Bar, Access into the Champagne Bar, Access to the Parade Ring, Access into the Betting Hall, Viewing from the Grandstand Steppings and a variety of food outlets.
Spies & Deception - Bletchley Park Visit
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: Bletchley Park, Nr Milton Keynes (MK3 6EB) Sherwood Drive main Entrance from 10:15am to 4:30pm Cost: £27.50 Member Includes: Guided tour, admin to Colossus & Tunny galleries, museum Seeing one of the Enigma Machines, including the rare 'Abwehr G312', is undoubtedly a highlight of a busy day out at Bletchley Park, but there is much more than machines in a visit to the historic site. Check out the tales of spies and strategic deception. You may even be the one to discover the map to genius mathematician Alan Turing's silver, supposedly buried in or near Bletchley Park. There are more than enough different activities and exhibitions to occupy us for a whole day, from wartime toys to working computers. There's a wartime mini cinema and an outstanding Churchill collection. Have a look inside the ornate Victorian Mansion that was headquarters to intelligence staff during the War.
Stonehenge Sunset Tour
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: Stonehenge, Wiltshire (SP3 4DX) 7.00pm prompt start 7pm to 10pm Cost: £43 Includes: Spice exclusive tour to the Inner Circle at Stonehenge with our guide, archaeologist and historian Don Bryan. The great and ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the wonders of the world. The last in a sequence of such monuments erected between circa 3000BC and 1600BC, each monument was a circular structure, aligned with the rising of the sun at the midsummer solstice. This evening we enjoy special access to Stonehenge, after the site has closed, exclusively for Spice, with the opportunity to enter the Inner Circle(usually not accessible during public visiting hours) and see the stones up close. We are even allowed to touch them. Our guide, archaeologist and historian Don Bryan, has specialist knowledge of our distant past and promises to bring the landscape to life for us. Don may also bring his dowsing rods and let you try dowsing the energy lines which cross the circle. Weather permitting we should also be able to witness a spectacular sunset from inside the stone circle.
Try The Wines at New Hall Vineyards near Chelmsford in Essex
Date: Saturday 14th May 2016 Place: Chelmsford Road, Purleigh, Chelmsford (CM3 6PN) Main entrance by Spice sign 2pm Cost: £5 Includes: Entry to vineyard, try some wines and Spice host Join us for a great day out at New Hall Vineyard! New Hall Vineyard is a family run English Wine Producer with over 100 acres of vines. It was first established by the Greenwood family, in the small Essex village of Purleigh in 1969 and is one of the oldest and largest English Vineyards in the Country. We will have the opportunity to taste some of the wines and also walk along the Vineyard Trail. This is a great day to sample some local wines and meet up with some Spice members around the area.
Afternoon Tea at Ashdown Park Hotel and County Club, East Sussex
Date: Sunday 15th May 2016 Place: Ashdown Park Hotel & County Club, Wych Cross, Near Forest Row, East Su (RH18 5JR) Spice table 3pm Cost: £31 Includes: Traditional Afternoon tea, service charge and Spice host Today we are visiting Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club for a wonderfully lavish traditional afternoon tea. Ashdown Park’s High Tea menus are award-winners and their kitchens are extremely proud of the home-made sandwiches, cakes and scones they serve. To see them piled high on bone china plates with accompanying pots of strawberry jam and thick clotted cream, it’s easy to see how they won over the most critical judge’s eye. Their period lounges are the perfect place to enjoy a High Tea so why not join us for an afternoon of decadence. Surrounded by the Ashdown Forest, which according to the famous children’s author, A. A. Milne, is the woodland that inspired his Winnie the Pooh stories, the Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club offers the heights of luxury in the heart of East Sussex.
Benjamin Franklin House Tour and Lunch
Date: Sunday 15th May 2016 Place: Gordons Wine Bar, 47 Villiers Street, London (WC2N 6NE) Spice Table 12:15pm Cost: £26 Benjamin Franklin House at 36 Craven Street in the heart of London is a heritage 'gem.' The world's only remaining home of Benjamin Franklin was opened to the public for the first time on 17 January 2006, Ben Franklin's 300th birthday, as a dynamic museum and educational facility certainly worth a visit. Today we’ll enjoy the Historical Experience which presents the excitement and uncertainty of Franklin's nearly 16 years in London using his historic rooms as staging for a drama which seamlessly integrates live performance, and cutting-edge lighting and projection technology. The Historical Experience at Benjamin Franklin House stands alone among London attractions in its 'museum as theatre' approach, setting a new standard for historical interpretation. The main character in the Historical Experience is Polly Hewson, daughter of Franklin's landlady who became a 'second daughter' to Franklin. Accompanied by Polly, who assumes visitors are there to see Franklin on his last night in London when he had to leave or risk arrest, the visitor experiences a sense of the complexity of the man and the times in which he lived: food, health, botany, and daily living in the basement kitchen; social and personal relationships, musical inventions and political tension on the ground floor; scientific work, political triumphs and woes, and a hurried return to America in the face of the looming War of Independence on the first floor. We will first meet at Gordons Wine Bar for a one course lunch. After this, we’ll make our way to the museum for the tour. This is a ticketed event; sorry there cannot be any refunds on these tickets unless we can resell your slot.
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Beginners Pottery Workshop at Merton Abbey Mills Pottery
Sunday 15th May 2016 The Wheelhouse, Merton Abbey Mills, London (SW19 2RD) At the Wheelhouse 12:45pm to 2:30pm £35 Includes: 1.5 Hour Pottery Lesson on Potter’s Wheel, Clay, Booking fee and Spice Host Extras: Glazing and Firing is £4 per item Have a go at throwing your own Pot! We have organised a beginner’s pottery class at the Wheelhouse Pottery in Merton Abbey Mills near Wimbledon. This tutored class is 1.5 hours long and you will have your own dedicated potter’s wheel and supply of clay. Try your hand at throwing a bowl or two which you can then take home. The event includes the tuition and clay then you just pay £4 for any items you want to glaze and have fired. This is a great way to make something with your own hands in traditional stoneware which you could eat or drink out of or put on display.
Sunday Brunch at Hotel Du Vin plus Optional Fitzwilliam Museum
Date: Sunday 15th May 2016 Place: Hotel du Vin, 15-19 Trumpington Street, Cambridge (CB2 1QA) Hotel Bistro, Spice Table 12:30pm Cost: £34 Includes: Four Course Sunday Brunch, Service Charge, Optional Museum Visit and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Today we will be having Sunday Brunch at French Bistro Restaurant, Hotel du Vin in Cambridge. The restaurant features European classic cuisine with a contemporary edge with the philosophy of using the finest and freshest local produce. Our four course brunch menu consists of a soup course followed by a help yourself lavish French Market Table, the centrepiece of Sunday Brunch at the renowned Hotel du Vin. Hotel du Vin in Cambridge hotel was lovingly converted from old University buildings. It Retains the original character and quirky architectural features and sits snugly among the Grade II listed buildings of picturesque Trumpington Street.
Sunday Lunch and Stroll Belvedere Holland Park
Date: Sunday 15th May 2016 Place: Holland Park Cafe, Holland Park, London (W8 6LU) Outside Café 11:30am Cost: £39.99 Stroll and Lunch Includes: Stroll around Holland Park (optional) and three Course Lunch Extras: Drinks Join us for a delightful morning stroll around Holland Park then a delicious three course lunch at the historic Belvedere Restaurant in the Park. Dating back to 17th century, The Belvedere Restaurant was once the Summer Ballroom to the Jacobsen mansion that was Holland House. It stands, not only in the middle of London's most beautiful park, Holland Park, but in one of the capital's most fashionable areas. It offers an oasis of tranquillity, surrounded by lawns, stunning flower gardens, and a picturesque fountain, yet is conveniently located only minutes away from the buzz of High street Kensington and Notting Hill. After a dramatic redesign by David Collins, The Belvedere has been re-launched to much acclaim and now offers superb cuisine in a unique location. We will start with an easy stroll around Holland Park where you can see the Japanese Kyoto garden, shrubberies and lawns.
Kensington Palace in The Orangery " What is British Fashion"
Date: Monday 16th May 2016 Place: Kensington Gardens, London, (W8 4PX) Kensington Palace Tours Entrance 6:45pm to 8:30pm Cost: £24 Includes: Ticketed entrance to "What is British Fashion" talk in The Orangery, Spice Host Join us for a unique experience at Kensington Palace – “What is British Fashion” This exciting evening is being held at Kensington Palace in The Orangery. You will be part of the audience in the beautiful Kensington Palace Orangery where a panel of fashion experts give a fascinating insight into the influences on and of British fashion from a royal, couture and high street point of view. Find out more about the powerful individuals who have shaped British fashion and enabled it to be a world leader from the points of view of history, media and craftsmanship.
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Live Jazz The Archduke, Near Waterloo
Tuesday 17th May 2016 The Archduke, 153 Concert Hall Approach, London (SE1 8XU) Ask for the Spice Table 6:15pm Cost: £27 Includes: Live Jazz and 2 course meal, service charge Spice Host Extras: Drinks Tonight we are heading to the Archduke Restaurant and wine bar in the Southbank for live Jazz music with the Will Bartlett duo. The Archduke was the first restaurant and wine bar to open on the Southbank in 1979 and is instantly recognisable by its spectacular and award winning architecture. Carved from under the railway arches by Waterloo Station, it has become something of a London institution. We have booked a table and whilst listening to the music we will enjoy a two course meal with dishes on the menu.
Meet and Eat (with Jazz) at the Woodman pub, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks
Date: Wednesday 18th May 2016 Place: The Woodman, Coldharbour Road, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent (TN14 6BU) Ask for the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: Booking fee and Spice host. Extras: Food, drink and service charge Tonight for our Sevenoaks Meet and Eat we are dining at the Woodman Country pub near Ide Hill whilst enjoying some fabulous live jazz entertainment! Recently refurbished, the Woodman is a traditional pub with beams and open fires. Menus have been constructed so that there is something for everyone; many amazing dishes are available and as much as possible is locally sourced. The Woodman Jazz club runs every Wednesday evening. The pub is lucky to have some of the best names on the British jazz circuit including Derek Nash and many others.
Cocktails Vintage Style on a Tube, in a Tube Station
Date: Thursday 19th May 2016 Place: Cahoots London, 13 Kingly Court, London (W1B 5PG) Spice Table 7pm Cost: £24.50 Includes: Cocktail, Sandwich, Service, Host. Extras: Additional Drinks It’s quirky, it’s new and it will transport you into a time long past. Join us tonight as we venture off to Cahoots, London’s latest bar which is designed like a 1940’s Tube Station and located in a WW2 air raid shelter. The Soho-based Cahoots aims to transport guests back to the war period, with themed cocktails, authentic décor, staff in character, a ticket booth upon entrance and a vintage tube seating area using old underground carriage fabrics. The extensive cocktail menu is an impressive eight pages long with choices such as Dig for Victory-style cocktails, drinks served in Thermos flasks, milk bottles, as well as new variations of old favourites. Jazz, swing and lindyhop with some rock’n’roll and electro-swing Included in our price is a cocktail on arrival and some sharing platters with various sandwiches and snacks.
Spice U40 - Social And Live Music Night
Date: Thursday 19th May 2016 Place: The Kings Head Theatre, 115 Upper St, London (N1 1QN) Spice table 7pm Cost: £3 Includes: Spice Table, Spice Host Join us for a lively evening at the KHT. Islington’s very own opera house, this quirky venue always fills out with a great crowd and the live music is always of a high standard. We will have our own space to enjoy a drink or two before we crank it up a gear for the live music from 9:30pm.
Can You Break The Code - Easy Walking Challenge
Date: Friday 20th May 2016 Place: Embankment Tube Station - exit (WC2N 6NS) Meet at exit going towards The Strand 6:30pm Cost: £5 Includes: organised code breaking event with Spice host Extras: drinks at the pub This is a cheap and fun evening out for all those who like treasure hunts & solving clues. Following the path of a popular film the team at Spice London have devised our very own Spice Code Breaking evening. You will have clues to solve, codes to break and anagrams to puzzle over. Can you & your team follow the trail to get to the Spice Grail? This is a fun and friendly way to spend a couple of hours whilst having some fresh air and exercise. There will be a prize at the end for the winning team and no doubt we will head to the pub afterwards.
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Cycling Weekend - Bath
Fri 20th May 2016 - Sun 22nd May 2016 Limpley Stoke, Lower Limpley, Stoke Bath (BA2 7FZ) Arrive from 4.00p.m. £185 Twin share, £220 Twin & Bike, £235 Single, £270 Single & bike (Deposit £35 Twin share, £35 Twin & Bike, £40 Single, £40 Single & bike) Includes: two nights hotel accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 1 evening meal (3 courses) on Saturday and 2 days guided cycling Extras: bike hire if required We have linked up with Graham Hills from Bikers Delight for a great cycling weekend in Bath. This is a great location for our cycling weekends and we will spend two days exploring the fine cycleways around the World Heritage City of Bath. Enjoy this Roman spa town with fine Georgian architecture, flat canal towpaths, disused railway lines, and country roads which will take us through cultural sites and historic market towns. This is classy location to spend a weekend cycling, you can relax, indulge and have some fun. Over the weekend we will be covering a reasonable distance on mainly flat canal tow paths, traffic cycle paths and quiet roads.
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Drawing and Watercolour Weekend
Fri 20th May 2016 - Sun 22nd May 2016 Lluest Fach, Foel, Mid Wales (SY21 0PB) Arrive from 6.00p.m. Supper 8.30p.m. £150 Sharing (Deposit £30 Sharing) Includes: 2 nights B&B, Friday buffet supper, 2 buffet lunches, 4 course evening meal and all instruction)Extras: Transport to location starts if used. If they told you at school that you couldn’t draw then this weekend break will prove them wrong. You don’t have to be a budding Monet or Picasso to enjoy this weekend, which takes the complete beginner or dabbler through the basics of drawing and painting. Julie Hyde, an accomplished artist, and experienced tutor, has put together a relaxed, fun programme to draw out all your latent artistic talents. Julie will dispel the mystique of drawing and painting into simple steps which anyone can follow. Demonstrating various techniques using pencil, watercolour and other media, she will show you how easily you can create sketches and finished works that you’ll be delighted to display. On Saturday we'll begin by getting a feel for sketching and how to 'see' things to paint. Then you’ll discover the many ways to use watercolour, and by Sunday you'll be using your newly acquired skills and techniques to put the final touches to your finished piece of work.
Live Music and Dinner at Café Concerto in Leicester Square
Date: Friday 20th May 2016 Place: Café Concerto, 17 Irving Street, London (WC2H 7AT) Ask for the Spice Table 7pm Cost: £29.50 Includes: 2 Course Dinner, glass of Prosecco and Live Music, Service charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Finish the week off with a chill out evening with live music at Caffé Concerto in Leicester Square. We have a table booked for a two course dinner and glass of Prosecco where you can listen to a selection of musicians and singers playing a selection of Jazz standards, blues, ballads and classical music. Caffe Concerto is a contemporary, chic style Café and Restaurant serving a range of tempting Italian dishes. For Dinner you can choose 2 courses from a selection of dishes from the A la Carte Menu. This is a lovely way to round off the week.
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Sailing Weekend Poole, Jurassic Coast and Weymouth
Fri 20th May 2016 - Sun 22nd May 2016 Poole Quay, Town Quay, Poole (BH15 1BT) 8.00 Friday Evening th nd th rd th nd th rd £305 for 20 to 22 , £430 20 to – 23 , (Deposit £20 to 22 , £20 to – 23 ) Includes: 2 or 3 nights on board in sharing cabins, diesel, wet weather gear, life harnesses, breakfasts, lunches, tea and coffee. Extras: Evening meals and marina charges We start this weekend cruise from the Poole Town Quay marina at 20.00 hrs. On the Friday evening we get to know each other over a meal in one of the Town Quay restaurants. On Saturday morning we sail through beautiful Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbours in Europe, past Brownsea Island (home of the original Scout camp and red squirrels) and out into Poole Bay where we sail south for a few miles past a coast of rolling chalk down land, punctuated midway by the famous “Old Harry” chalk stack, before turning to the west around Durlston Head. On Sunday we return to Poole. If time and conditions suit, we may anchor for lunch in Studland Bay, a beautiful anchorage a few miles south of Poole Harbour. We arrive back at Poole town quay at approximately 16.00 hrs.
Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Club with Optional Curry, Dorking
Date: Friday 20th May 2016 Place: Dorking Halls, Reigate Road, Dorking, Surrey (RH4 1SJ) at the Spice table 7pm Cost: £17.50 Ticket Only, £26 Ticket & Curry Includes: Comedy ticket, booking fee, optional curry, host Extras: Drinks Join us for an evening of laughter at the Screaming Blue Murder Comedy Evening at the Dorking Halls. Tonight we have the option of a tasty pre-show curry or you can just enjoy some drinks at the table and socialise with other local Spice members. We will then go to take our seats for the comedy at 8.30pm. Book now to enjoy the hottest new talent on the comedy circuit!
Bavarian Night - White Asparagus Season at the Bavarian Beerhouse
Date: Saturday 21st May 2016 Place: The Arches, 9 Crutched Friars, Tower Hil (EC3N 2AU) ask for Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Pay as you go meal and Spice Host Extras: Pay as you go for Food, Drink and service charge A night social with a difference, tonight we are visiting one of the UK’s only authentic German/Bavarian Restaurants – the Bavarian Beerhouse near Tower Hill. During May is the German White Asparagus Season and they will have a special menu showcasing the White Asparagus with dishes such as, Asparagus with Hollandaise sauce, Asparagus Soup, Bavarian ham with Asparagus alongside their normal Bavarian dishes.
Beginners' Climbing Taster Session, Tunbridge, Kent
Date: Saturday 21st May 2016 Place: Karma Climbing Centre, 3 North Farm Rd, Tunbridge Wells (TN2 3DR) Register at desk at Karma 3pm Cost: £25 Includes: Instructor, equipment, 1 hour lesson, Spice booking fee & host. Extras: Refreshments Today we are visiting Karma Climbing Centre, a brand new dedicated climbing facility boasting some of the finest indoor bouldering in the South East, for a beginners' climbing taster session. If you are new to climbing and want some useful advice on technique, grades, terminology and safe practice, then why not book on to this exciting taster session in an exhilarating modern climbing environment. Our hour-long introductory session will be run by an expert instructor and is a great way to get started in bouldering.
National Gallery and Afternoon Tea
Date: Saturday 21st May 2016 Place: National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London (WC2N 5DN) Main Entrance - Spice Sign 2pm Cost: £27 Gallery and Afternoon Tea, £32 Gallery, and Afternoon Tea with Bubbly Includes: Entrance, Afternoon Tea with Option of Bubbly, Service Charge, Host Extras: Payments for specific exhibitions Founded in 1824 to display a collection of just 36 paintings, today the National Gallery is home to more than 2,000 works. There are masterpieces from virtually every European school of art from the middle ages to the 20th century. Today we’ll be visiting to discover inspiring art by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Turner, Renoir and Van Gogh, featuring 80 highlights from the collection from intimate self-portraits to glorious sunflowers. After we’ve visited the galleries, we’ll be heading off to the National Dining Rooms, a quintessentially British restaurant, for afternoon tea. Here we’ll enjoy a selection of Cornish smoked salmon and caper cream cheese, Wiltshire ham and Singletons Cheddar, cucumber and horseradish butter and creamy coronation chicken sandwiches. This is accompanied by mini cakes and warm scones served with Peyton and Byrne preserves and Devonshire clotted cream and served with your choice of bottomless tea or coffee. There is also the option of including a glass of Baron-Fuente Vintage Champagne Charly-sur-Marne, France.
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Medieval Banquet, London
Saturday 21st May 2016 Ivory House, St Katharine’s Dock (E1W 1BP) Meet at entrance at 7.15pm 7:15pm to 11:30pm £48.50 Includes lavish evening banquet, with 2 hours of medieval themed entertainment, 4 course meal, unlimited wine and ale with the meal and disco dancing till close. This is a very popular night out in London to which we have not been for a while so here is an opportunity for a Saturday night evening with a difference. This is a unique experience as there is no other evening of this kind in London so why not book yourself a place and treat yourself to a great night out. Our banquet takes place in the beautiful and historic St Katharine Docks alongside the River Thames and just a two minute walk from Tower Bridge and The Tower of London. Join Henry VIII and his court of knights, troubadours, contortionists, magicians, jugglers, minstrels and medieval tumblers at this most royal of banquets and enjoy a four course feast with ale and wine brought to your table throughout the meal.
Easy Guided Walk through Hainault Forest in Essex
Date: Sunday 22nd May 2016 Place: Miller and Carter, Manor road, Abridge, Romford, Essex (RM4 1NH) Car Park of Miller and Carter 11am Cost: £6 Includes: Guided Walk Extras: Refreshments Join us for an easy 3.5 mile walk around Hainault Forest. We will start from the Miller and Carter Pub Car Park (Formally The Camelot pub) and will make our way through Ancient 300 year old woodland and Woodland Trust Fields. This is an easy walk and will take about two hours and on our return to the Car Park you can have lunch a the Miller and Carter Pub/Restaurant.
Fun on Bikes - Lee Valley Park, Herts
Date: Sunday 22nd May 2016 Place: Broxbourne Meadows, Mill Lane, Broxbourne, Herts (EN10 7AX) Meet at Cycle Centre 1:45pm Cost: £8 Member Own bike, £10 Guest Own bike, £26 Member hire bike, £28 Guest hire bike We are heading for the Lee Valley Park, which is a new area for us to have some fun out on our bikes (hire bikes available if you don’t have your own). We will have an enjoyable day trying out the cycling circuits in the Park. The park covers quite a large area so using our pedal power we should be able to cover about 10/15 miles during the day with the usual stops for drinks and lunch. Wear clothes you can move in and bring some waterproofs just in case you need them. Helmets must be worn at all times or you will not be allowed to ride. You must wear suitable footwear for biking and wear clothes you can move in. Jeans are not suitable for this event. Remember some cash for lunch and drinks.
Mind Management Workshop
Date: Sunday 22nd May 2016 Place: 54 Cambridge Grove, Hammersmith (W6 0LA) Stonemasons Arms, Upstairs function room 11:30am to 4:30pm Cost: £55 Do you want to be more Confident? Does your 'inner critic' hold you back? Are you ready to make positive changes? Then this workshop is for you! This Mind Management workshop will help you to identify self-limiting beliefs and behaviours, to be more focused and give you the skills to empower you to be the best you can be. Sheila McMahon is a Qualified Counsellor, a Stand-up Comedienne and the published Author of ‘The Power of Knowing You’. She performs Mental Health Theatre shows combining mental health with humour to sell-out audiences. She has been featured on BBC, ITV and Sky TV.
Spice U40 - St Pauls Scavenger, Photo and Treasure Hunt
Date: Sunday 22nd May 2016 Place: St Paul's Tube Station, London (EC2V 6AA) Meet at outside Cafe Nero by the tube station exit. 11am Cost: £9 Includes: organised, fun treasure and scavenger hunt Extras: drinks and food if required We have a fun, NEW treasure hunt for our Spice U40 members. The area around St Paul’s cathedral is steeped in history but there is also a warren of narrow alleyways and secret passageways that make it the perfect place for a series of cunningly concealed cryptic clues and challenges. The actual route is varied and interesting combining old monuments, hidden courtyards and truly secret places. The cryptic clues are visual clues that lead you to a number or letter that gives you the next clue to set you on your way. The cryptic clues are not in order as that would just be too easy! A keen eye is all that is needed to keep you on the correct trail. We also have lined up a scavenger challenge and spot and photo challenges which will keep you entertained for a few hours in London with your fellow Spice members.
Tennis - Henry VIII Style - Hampton Court
Date: Sunday 22nd May 2016 Place: Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court (KT8 9AU) At Indoor Tennis Club Room 1:45pm to 4pm Cost: £35 Rumour had it that if you beat Henry VIII at tennis, you stood a good chance of being beheaded! Fortunately, Henry will not be present at his Palace to nominate the forfeits as we learn how to play The King of Racquet Sports, ‘Real’ Tennis. Real Tennis (known as Royal Tennis in Australia or Court Tennis in the US) is the oldest of all the racquet games, tracing its origins th back to 11 century monasteries. It is played in an enclosed court rather like a squash court, but with ‘lean-tos’, ‘Penthouses’, around 3 sides. The Penthouses have netted openings in them called ‘Galleries’. Each Gallery has a name. The game is most often viewed from the ‘Dedans’, a large netted opening, which is on the ‘Service’ side of the net.
Tower of London with Yeoman Guided Tour
Date: Sunday 22nd May 2016 Place: Tower of London, Tower Hill, London (EC3N 4AB) Welcome Centre on Concourse-Spice Sign 11:30am Cost: £27 Includes: Entrance to Tower of London, Tour and Spice Host, Extras: Refreshments Despite the Tower of London's grim reputation as a place of torture and death, within these walls you will also discover the history of a royal palace, an armoury and a powerful fortress. Join Spice today as we take tour with a Yeoman Warder around parts of this iconic building and hear their bloody tales, stand where famous heads have rolled, learn the legend of the Tower's ravens, storm the battlements and get to grips with swords and armour and much more! In the medieval palace, we’ll step into a world of gallant knights and beautiful damsels and priceless Crown Jewels. There are various restaurants at the Tower where we can get a drink and a bite to eat (optional – payable on the day).
String Quartet and Opera Cabaret and Dinner at Sarastro
Date: Monday 23rd May 2016 Place: Sarastro Restaurant, 126 Drury Lane (WC2B 5QG) Ask for Spice table 7pm Cost: £42.50 includes three course Opera meal, service/admin charge Sarastro, named for a character in Mozart’s Magic Flute is known as ‘the show after the show’. The restaurant in Drury Lane is a rich tapestry of flamboyant artwork, gilt furniture and wall mounted opera boxes which provide a spectacular view of the interior. On Monday evenings Sarastro’s has live performances by singers from international Opera Houses including the Royal Opera and English National Opera. Performances include offerings from younger talent and students some destined to be the next virtuosos and divas of tomorrow! We will be having a special Opera Cabaret menu – sample menu may include dishes such as shared mezze of Hummus, Tzatsiki, Cous Cous salad Cheese and Mushrooms Borek. There is a choice of main course for example Lamb, Salmon, Chicken or Penne Arrabiata Pasta.
Mediterranean Dining and Social - Bar Azita - Hitchin
Date: Thursday 26th May 2016 Place: Bar Azita, 35 Bucklersbury, Hitchin, Herts (SG5 1BG) At Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £28.50 for 2 courses, £21.50 for 1 course Includes: Mediterranean sharing meal, optional dessert, service and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Bar Azita has some fabulous reviews on Trip Advisor who it is time for us to try this great restaurant ourselves. Specialising in charcoal grilled food that is healthy and simple with an extensive menu. The dishes have influences from across the Mediterranean from the olive groves of Greece to the tapas bars of Spain, resulting in some exciting flavours. We will be having a selection of sharing dishes so that we can socialise over a glass of wine. There will be an excellent choice to suit most tastes. Why not join us at this popular and friendly restaurant.
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Sailing Cross Channel to the Cherbourg Peninsula
Thu 26th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 Chichester Marina, Chichester, West Sussex (PO20 7EJ) Arrive for 8.00p.m. on Thursday £409 Cabin Share (Deposit £50) includes: 4 nights on board in sharing cabins, diesel, wet weather gear, Life harnesses, breakfasts, lunches, tea and coffee. Extras: evening meals and marina charges On this cruise we plan to take advantage of the Bank Holiday weekend to venture southwards towards Cherbourg and the Channel Islands. Sailing across the Channel and making a foreign landfall is a special and memorable experience. Starting on Thursday night or early Friday morning enables us to maximise our time on the ‘other’ side and gives you the opportunity to experience lighthouses falling away astern. The crossing normally takes between twelve and fifteen hours. Once safely in harbour, you enjoy that first evening meal ashore with a real sense of achievement. Weather permitting, we normally visit at least two harbours and enjoy an afternoon’s walk or bike ride on one of the islands before returning to the Solent with a couple of hundred sea miles under the keel.
Scandinavian Supper at the Nordic Bar near Fitzrovia
Date: Thursday 26th May 2016 Place: Nordic Bar, 25 Newman street, London (W1T 1PN) Ask for the Spice table 7pm Cost: £16 Includes: Nordic supper dish, service charge and Spice host Tonight we are heading to the Nordic Bar near Soho, a stone’s throw from Oxford Street which offers delicious food sourced directly from Scandinavia. This rustic style bar offers a range of Scandinavian beers, vodkas and cocktails from all five of the Nordic countries. We will be having supper from their Nordic menu where they use traditional recipes with classic dishes such as the famous Swedish Meatballs with mashed potatoes, pan fried potatoes with bacon and sausage topped with a fried egg, Nordic battered Cod with fries, Swedish hot dog topped with mash or if not so daring go for the Nordic Beef or Chicken Burger or Nordic Salmon Nicoise salad. This is somewhere a little bit different to the norm!
Friday Night Comedy at Tattershall Castle
Date: Friday 27th May 2016 Place: Fratelli La Bufala, 35-37 Villiers Street, London (WC2N 6NA) Ask for Spice Table 6:30pm Cost: £29.50 Includes: comedy ticket and Italian pizza supper and Spice host Extras: Drinks payable on the night Spice members do love the comedy nights on the Tattershall Castle so why not join us this evening for a few laughs. The is a premier comedy night and many of comedy’s greatest stars have played or started their careers here including Graham Norton, Jerry Sadowitz, Dylan Moran, Mark Thomas, Harry Hill, Michael McIntyre and Ross Noble. For this evening you should meet at Fratelli La Bufala restaurant so that we can socialize and have some Italian Pizzas to share with salad and other tasty delights. Please aim to arrive at the restaurant for 6.30p.m. as the restaurant will be busy and we need to leave by 7.30p.m. to get to the boat for the Comedy.
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Bank Holiday Narrowboat Weekend - Aldermaston
Fri 27th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 Padworth, Reading - 3 nights (RG7 4JS) Arrive between 2.30p.m. and 4.30p.m. £235 (Deposit £40) Includes: hire of Narrow boat for Spice exclusive Bank Holiday weekend Spice host, 2 breakfast, 2 sandwich/picnic lunches (Option to finish on Sunday night is available) Extras: Drinks - bring your own and some meals at pubs along the way This is a great way of spending a lazy, long weekend away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For this weekend we are heading to Aldermaston which is ideally situated just off the M4 at junction 12 and on the outskirts of Reading. We will leave from Aldermaston and head west on the Kennet & Avon canal towards the picturesque market town of Newbury. Day two will take us towards the village of Kintbury where there are some nice canal side pubs for us to enjoy. On Sunday we will spend the day travelling back to Aldermaston. (This is just a guide of what we can do and it can be changed to suit the group and the amount of locks we want to go through!)
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Secret Ridges of Wales Bank Holiday Walking Weekend
Fri 27th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 Lluest Fach Farm, Mid Wales. (SY21 0YB) From 6.00pm Friday £176 (Deposit £34) Includes: Friday evening supper, three nights B&B, packed lunches 4 course evening dinner party and Mountain Leader guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts is in member's cars to reduce costs The trouble with ridge walking in Wales on a Bank Holiday weekend is the throng of other walkers doing the same. This break is designed to escape the crowds and tackle some of the spectacular, but lesser known routes. Your guide for these walks is Barry Smith, a qualified mountain leader who has been living in the area and walking these hills for over twenty five years. All the ridges involved are wide and far from scary so you can concentrate on the views rather than the drops. On Saturday, after a traditional cooked breakfast, we plan to tackle two of the highest peaks in Southern Snowdonia, Aran Fawddwy and its sister summit Aran Benllyn. We’ll be approaching the peaks from a little used route to the east which will take us by the impressive waterfall, Pystyll Gwyn. The walk is about 10 miles in length with spectacular views over to the coast and some of the more well-known peaks of North Wales to the North. You won’t find any well-trodden paths or signposts here, this is real wild country guaranteed get us away from the crowds.
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Walking Weekend Evesham North Cotswolds
Fri 27th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 Abbots Salford, Evesham, Worcester (WR11 8UT) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £259 Twin Share, £319 Single (Deposit £50 Twin Share, £60 Single) Includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 evening meals, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches, 3 guided Extras: Transport to walk starts if used WalkWise Overview: We will be staying in a lovingly restored and fascinating Tudor manor almost unchanged by time. This Grade 1 listed hotel is located in the picturesque Vale of Evesham renowned for both Shakespeare and the Cotswolds. The upshot of this wonderful location is that we can access the terrific area of the northern Cotswolds around Evesham. We will be exploring an interesting and diverse new area to the north of Chipping Campden plus visiting an old favourite south of Chipping Campden. Idyllic views and villages feature strongly along with magnificent architecture built from the warm honey Cotswolds stone.
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Walking Weekend on IIkley Moor
Fri 27th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 Craiglands Hotel, IIkley, West Yorks (LS29 8RQ) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £249 Twin Share, £309 Single (Deposit £50 Twin Share, £60 Single) Includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 evening meals, 3 picnic lunches, 3 breakfasts, 3 guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used WalkWise Overview: This charming programme see’s WalkWise combine a grand, warm and friendly Victorian hotel with the traditional historic spa town of Ilkley. The Craigland’s hotel sits close to one of the finest walking areas in the country, the Yorkshire Dales National Park. However, just behind the hotel lies the famous Ilkley Moor and the gritstone hills of the South Pennines. Our weekend will get away from it all by walking in three contrasting areas including on the famous and majestic Ilkley Moor itself, the beautiful dales and the dramatic Bronte country of Wuthering Heights. We shall spend our day’s walking up over the hills and dales, through the wild moorlands and criss-crossing the lush landscapes adorned by the omnipresent dry stone walls. In the evenings we will wine and dine in the splendour of their excellent restaurant and take drinks from the well-stocked bar.
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Walking Weekend Tenby and Pembrokeshire Coast
Fri 27th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 The Clarence House Hotel, Tenby, Pembrokeshire (SA70 7DU) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 7.00p.m. £234 Twin Share, £294 Single (Deposit £45 Twin Share, £55 Single) Includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 1 evening meal, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches, 3 guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used WalkWise Overview: Terrific Seaside Tenby & Perfect Pembrokeshire Coast Combine with superb safe and sociable walking. Few people would dispute that the Pembrokeshire coast is one of the finest in the country so it will come as no surprise that on all three days we’ll be walking beside or close to the sea! Whether you are looking for longer or shorter walks, the area is a sheer delight. You will feel invigorated walking above the rugged and spectacular limestone and sandstone cliffs that typify the area. Pembrokeshire’s national park is unique in that it is the country’s only national park based entirely on coastal scenery; it boasts beautiful sandy beaches, wonderful headlands, medieval cliff top castles and early Christian sites.
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Woolacombe Coastal Photography Weekend
Fri 27th May 2016 - Mon 30th May 2016 Royal Hotel, Woolacombe, North Devon. (EX34 7AB) Arrive from 3.00p.m. £239 Twin Share, £289 Single (Deposit £40 Twin Share, £50 Single) includes: 3 nights’ accommodation, 3 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches & 3 evening meals & 3 days of photography tuition Extras: Transport to starts if used This is the perfect weekend to escape and experience the delights of the North Devon coastal landscape with your camera. Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Woolacombe is a lively village famed for its surfing, with pubs, shops and has a fantastic award winning beach that is frequently cited as being in the top 5 UK beaches. This weekend is designed to give beginners or those looking to get more from their digital camera the confidence to use your camera to its full potential. Through motivating, practical sessions you’ll learn more about your camera and various techniques to capture the magnificent coastline and the intimate landscape within. We’ll focus on the wonderful landscape around us such as silver sand beaches, rocky coves and stunning sunsets. Surfers and kite surfers make interesting subjects and we can be creative with the abstract patterns, colours and textures at our feet. Further afield we could visit the pretty fishing port at Ilfracombe and Croyde Bay. All in all the weekend is designed to flexible and above all fun.
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Hippodrome - The Eastcoast Boys and Dinner
Saturday 28th May 2016 Hippodrome, Cranbourne St, Leicester Square, London (WC2H 7JH) In bar on 1st floor - Spice sign 5:30pm to 10pm £65 Member Ticket & Dinner Includes: Ticket to The Eastcoast Boys show, stalls table seat, 2 course dinner, Spice host and booking fee Extras: Drinks are payable on the night The Hippodrome presents a spectacular Sin City Saturday as we bring Vegas entertainment to the heart of London. Join The Eastcoast Boys as they celebrate the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. This is a great feel-good show featuring four phenomenal singers and a fantastic live band recreating the iconic sound of the Jersey Boys. They’ll be performing the smash hits ‘Sherry’, ‘December 63 (Oh What A Night)’, ‘My Eyes Adored You’, ‘Beggin’ and the iconic ‘Grease Is the Word’.
Spanish Tapas at Pinchos, Chelmsford
Date: Saturday 28th May 2016 Place: 3a Baddow Road, Chelmsford, Essex (CM2 0BX) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £26 Tonight we are heading to Pinchos serving authentic Spanish Tapas in Chelmsford. This traditional Tapas restaurant has an informal atmosphere where the emphasis is on sociable eating, using seasonal Spanish and local ingredients and culinary passion. We will be sharing a mixed tapas menu so you have the opportunity to try several different Tapas dishes as well as Paella. If you are vegetarian there will be vegetarian options. Our dining out evenings in different restaurants are always very enjoyable and a great way to meet with other Spice members in the local area.
Victoria and Albert Museum
Date: Saturday 28th May 2016 Place: Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London (SW7 2RL) Inside main Entrance 11am Cost: £5 Includes: Entry to museum and Spice Host Extras: Ticket Entry to Exhibitions, Refreshments Join us for a day at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the world’s greatest museum of art and design. The V&A collection represents over three thousand years of creativity from across Europe, Asia and the Middle East with internationally acclaimed exhibitions on subjects from design and fashion to photography, sculpture and architecture. During the day, we will have the option to stop for refreshments in the Museum restaurant where they have a selection of dishes and drinks to choose from (members own cost).
Bank Holiday Shuffle Meal - London
Date: Saturday 28th May 2016 Place: Waterloo Bar & Kitchen, 131 Waterloo Road (SE1 8UR) Ask for Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £36.50 Next door to the Old Vic, the Waterloo Bar and Kitchen is a very popular restaurant with Spice members. There is a twist to evening as we are also having a ‘Dinner Shuffle’ which is our most popular way of Spice dining. We will make up a shuffle for the evening which means that we have you changing places after each course to help you socialise with ease. Our meal this evening will be 3 courses from a special menu being prepared just for Spice. Drinks are not included and you pay for these on the evening.
Canadian Canoeing along the River Medway, Tonbridge to East Peckham
Date: Sunday 29th May 2016 Place: Tonbridge Swimming Pool Car Park (TN9 1HR) 10.45am for 11.00am start Cost: £55 Includes: Open paddle canoeing with full instruction and equipment Extras: Refreshments A leisurely "go with the flow" on the River Medway. The cruise follows parts of the newly opened Medway canoe trail from Tonbridge to Teston Bridge. We will be on the water for about five hours, have burnt off few calories and be pleasantly tired! The river flows through woodlands, fields and villages controlled by locks which regulate the flow. Canoes and kayaks can use the specially constructed canoe slides, which are great fun to shoot. You will come back with some great action pictures! You will be on the water for approximately five hours. The event will take around six hours including stops. We paddle best quality Open Canoes, usually two paddlers per boat, as these are light, fast, comfortable and dry craft as small boats go. The trips are led by two British Canoe Union Level 3 coaches. This open canoe trip is suitable for all - all coaching, guidance, equipment, support and safety cover is included. You should dress as if you were going for a walk in the countryside, so do consider the weather. Soft soled shoes or boots are essential (trainers, wellies or deck shoes are ideal). Hard, rigid or leather soles are not suitable. Please bring a packed lunch, drinks and snacks for your picnic lunch, which can be transferred to your canoe.
Sunday Lunch Jazz Ronnie Scott’s Jive Aces
Date: Sunday 29th May 2016 Place: Ronnie Scott’s, 47 Frith Street, London (W1D 4HT) Ask for the Spice Table 12pm to 4pm Cost: £43 Includes: Sunday Jazz ticket, Standard Seating, 1 course lunch, service charge, Spice Host Extras: Drinks, extra courses and coffees Today we are visiting one of the oldest and most iconic jazz clubs in the world – Ronnie Scotts. This will be a lazy Sunday afternoon, chilling out and eating, whilst listening to the cool sounds of the Jazz musicians. Scheduled to play are The Jive Aces who are the UK’s top Jive and Swing Band. This is high energy music where swing meets Rock ‘n Roll, not to be missed! This very popular six piece group have performed at thousands of festivals throughout the UK, Europe, USA, Japan and The Caribbean, 30 countries in all. They were Semi Finalists on Britain’s got Talent!
The Big Abseil - 200 Feet Straight Down
Date: Sunday 29th May 2016 Place: Avon Gorge, Portway, Bristol Layby on the Portway - email sent with directions 1:15pm to 4:30pm Cost: £38 Bristol has the amazing Avon Gorge with the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge symbolising this great city. But it’s not just a beautiful landmark – it’s also the setting for one of our greatest and most challenging events – The Big Abseil. What a great shot for your photo album! Go ahead and impress your family and friends with this classic Spice event. You will start off by literally ‘getting to know the ropes’ and receive full instruction on the techniques needed for your descent. Your instructor will build up your confidence and calm your nerves before you progress onto the impressive 200-foot descent. Don’t forget to admire the impressive views whilst you’re up there.
Visit to Chelsea Physic Garden
Date: Sunday 29th May 2016 Place: 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London (SW3 4HS) Entrance Physic Garden via Swan Walk 11:30am Cost: £15.50 Includes: Entry to Chelsea Physic Garden, Spice Host Extras: Drinks and refreshments Situated in the heart of London, Chelsea Physic Garden has a unique living collection of around 5,000 different edible, useful, medicinal and historical plants. Celebrating the beauty and importance of plants, this ‘hidden gem’ is also a peaceful green oasis in which to enjoy a relaxing stroll and lunch at the Tangerine Dream Café. The Physic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in London and has subsequently became one of the most important centres of botany and plant exchange in the world.
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Theatre - The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Tuesday 31st May 2016 Gielgud Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London (W1V 8AR) Outside the entrance to the foyer - Spice Sign 7pm £45 Stalls Includes: discounted ticket, booking fee and Spice Host. We can't refund on tickets unless we are able to re-sell your ticket for you. Public Price £59.50 National Theatre's award-winning The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time is the winner of 7 Olivier awards including Best New Play, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Supporting Actress so why not treat yourself to a ticket. The story is told from the point of view of a child with behavioural difficulties, the intriguing tale begins with Christopher standing beside Mrs. Shears' dead dog, which has been speared by a garden fork. Falling under suspicion for the dreadful deed, he records every fact gathered about the case in a book he is writing, in order to solve the mystery of who murdered Wellington. While Christopher has an extraordinary brain, he has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, detests being touched and distrusts strangers. But his detective work, although forbidden by his father, takes him on a frightening journey that upends his entire world.
Meet and Eat at Prezzo, Tunbridge Wells
Date: Thursday 2nd June 2016 Place: Prezzo, 84 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent (TN1 1RT) Ask for the Spice table on arrival 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: Spice host and booking fee Extras: Food, drink and service charge Located in the centre of Tunbridge Wells, Prezzo has a welcoming atmosphere and fresh contemporary decor which makes it an ideal location for a meal out with friends. There's plenty to choose from Prezzo's Italian menu where they are celebrating the new season with wild mushroom recipes, flatbread salads, fruity cocktails and divine desserts.
Swing, Motown and Dinner at Sarastros
Date: Thursday 2nd June 2016 Place: Sarastros, 126 Drury Lane, London (WC2B 5SU) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £42.50 Includes: 3 Course Dinner, Live Music and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Sarastro, named for a character in Mozart’s Magic Flute is known as ‘the show after the show’. The restaurant in Drury Lane is a rich tapestry of flamboyant artwork, gilt furniture and wall mounted opera boxes which provide a spectacular view of the interior. On Thursday evenings Sarastro’s has a live Swing and Motown evening performed by Colin Roy singing classics by legends such as Frank Sinatra, the Drifters, The Temptations and Lionel Richie. We will be having a special Cabaret menu. Menu may include dishes such as shared mezze of Hummus, Tzatsiki, Cous Cous salad Cheese and Mushrooms Borek. Main course: Lamb, Salmon, Chicken or Penne Arrabiata Pasta. Dessert: panna cotta, black forest gateau or fresh fruit salad.
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Cycling Weekend - Cotswolds
Fri 3rd Jun 2016 - Sun 5th Jun 2016 B&B 4 mins walk from the centre of Stow-on-the-Wold (GL54 1AF) Arrive anytime from 4.00p..m. £190 Sharing, £220 Share & bike Hire, £230 Single, £270 Single & bike hire (Deposit £40 Sharing, £40 Share & bike Hire, £45 Single, £45 Single & bike hire) Includes two nights B&B accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 1 evening meal (3 courses) on Saturday, 2 days fully guided cycling. Bike Hire £30 for the weekend We have linked up with Graham Hills from bikers Delight Bike Tours for a cycling weekend in the Cotswolds. We will spend two days and nights in England’s largest area of outstanding natural beauty. We will be cycling through some gorgeous villages and historic market towns. Along the way we will also visit a working farm and enjoy the region’s fine hospitality when we stop for lunches and drinks. This a great weekend to relax, indulge and have some fun. Over the weekend we will be covering a reasonable distance on quiet country roads through the countryside with the occasional hill. The cycling is moderate on Saturday and easy to moderate on Sunday. Cycling is at a medium pace for 4 hours on Saturday and 2.5 hours on Sunday.
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Italian Dining with Freddie Mercury Party and Meal - Herts
Saturday 4th June 2016 Marconato, 31 High Street, Hoddesdon, Herts (EN11 8TA) Ask for the Spice table 7:30pm £34.50 for 3 courses, £29.50 for 2 courses Includes: 2 or 3 course meal, tribute entertainment, welcome drink service and Spice host Extras: Drinks Tonight we are heading to Marconato - the home of Italian cooking and the greatest rock legend of all time – Freddie Mercury! Gary Goodmaze will be entertaining us with his incredible performance as The Queen legend. Gary has appeared on numerous television shows including the hugely successful ‘Stars In Their Eyes’. These evenings are very popular so book your place real soon. We will be enjoying a 2 or 3 course meal (your choice) of tasty options of risotto, pasta or pizza and you can choose a starter or dessert or enjoy 3 courses.
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Wilderness and Foraging Bunkhouse Weekend in Dorking, Surrey
Fri 3rd Jun 2016 - Sun 5th Jun 2016 YHA Tanners Hatch, Dorking, Surrey (RH5 6SR) arrive from 4.00p.m. £135 Sharing, (Deposit £20) Includes: 2 nights bunkhouse exclusive hire for Spice, foraging experience with foraging expert, 2 breakfasts and 2 suppers and Spice Host throughout Extras: Drinks - Bring Your Own
This picturesque and eco-friendly hostel with plenty of charm and character in National Trust woodland is a perfect country retreat close to London. A haven of peace and tranquillity, you can relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For this weekend we are walking and foraging in the woods for a real wilderness experience. We will also cook a meal with the mushrooms, berries and any other food we can find. We will have a foraging expert from Wildfood Foraging to give us a talk on the rules of foraging before we set off into the countryside to identify the edible plants and mushrooms that grow in this area. We will learn what we can and cannot eat so that we can enhance our walks and diets. Much of what we find when foraging would be considered food for fine dining so why not learn how to do it for free. YHA Tanners Hatch has low-beamed ceilings throughout with 12 beds arranged across 3 bedrooms (bunk beds). All bed linen is provided. There is a lovely lounge to enjoy the evenings with sofas and armchairs or we can sit in the lovely garden over a glass of wine or two. There is also a dining room with tables and wooden benches. There are two fire pits on site which means we can collect our own wood and build a real campfire. For more information and what to bring please see our web site.
Foraging Foray in the Woods - Dorking, Surrey
Date: Saturday 4th June 2016 Place: Ranmore Common Road, Dorking (RH5 6SR) Directions will be emailed 10:30am Cost: £36.50 Includes: a day spent foraging in the woods with a foraging expert This is a Saturday option for the event above. You will join other Spice members straying overnight at YHA Tanners Hatch and forage for your supper. This looks to be a fun, unusual and interesting day, don’t worry our foraging expert will ensure you don’t pick any dodgy looking mushrooms or berries!
1940's Americana Drinks, Live Entertainment and Dancing
Date: Saturday 4th June 2016 Place: Steam and Rye, 147 Leadenhall Street, London (EC3V 4QT) Ask for the Spice Table 6:45pm Cost: £34.50 Includes: Burger Meal, Cocktail/Wine/Beer, Service, Live Entertainment, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Steam and Rye is a unique dining, bar, live music and dancing experience with a classic Americana theme. Inspired by 1940s United States where the grand living of the Great Gatsby met the glamour of the Golden Age of Hollywood, where the old ways of the Wild West and travelling shows met the stirrings of the new, young sound of rock ’n’ roll, and where every corner of this land of opportunity, from rising city to endless prairie, was opened up by the all-conquering majesty of the mighty railroads. There’s fabulous live entertainment, a live band, dancers and a fire show amongst other things. So that we can secure a table at this very popular sell out venue, we are having a Burger Meal each (Ground Beef served in a Brioche Bun with tomato, lettuce, Gherkins and Fries or there is a Chilli burger Option) and we have also included your first cocktail or a glass of wine or beer. The cocktails are divine so you will probably want another one!
Clerkenwell: Not Just a Watering Hole - Guided Walk
Date: Saturday 4th June 2016 Place: Outside Farringdon Station, 39 Cowcross Street, London (EC1M 6BY) Station Entrance Spice sign 2pm to 4:30pm Cost: £12.50 Includes: guided tour with Joanna Moncrieff Extras: Drinks at the pub Join Clerkenwell and Islington Guide, Joanna Moncrieff on a walk exploring Clerkenwell, historically a place of gin and beer production. Hear how the abundance of fresh water in Clerkenwell shaped the area firstly with the religious settlements and later with distilleries and breweries. We will also hear about the connection between gin and cricket, the terrible slums and the criminals who lived within, the influence Smithfield Market had on the surrounding streets, temperance societies, a coffee house where Latin was the only language permitted and the now long gone theatre known as the blood tub. The walk will finish in a suitably historic pub close to Farringdon Station. Joanna's mobile is 07790 292 444 - Please ring on the day if you are lost or not turning up although the phone will be turned off after the start of the walk.
Epsom Derby Festival Day and After Party
Date: Saturday 4th June 2016 Place: Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom (KT18 5LQ) Outside Main Pavilion Entrance 12pm Cost: £58 Includes: Entrance to Grandstand Investec Derby Day, Booking Fee, Spice Host Extras: Food and Drinks Get together with Spice and other Spice members for Britain’s Biggest Day out featuring the World’s greatest flat race. The Investec Derby has become synonymous with style and heritage, and this year will be no different. With approximately 30 minutes between each race, the afternoon is pitched at the perfect tempo, so you can relax and mingle with other Spice members, place a bet on your favourite horses and sample the top class sporting action. Everyone ends the day with a smile! We have tickets for the superb Grandstand enclosure, where the Duchess's Stand is located. This provides an excellent atmosphere to view the racing from the bookmakers’ ring and the ability to take in all the action. The Grandstand gives you additional access to the Paddock and Bookmakers’ facilities.
Sunday Lunch at West Thirty Six near Notting Hill
Date: Sunday 5th June 2016 Place: 36 Golborne Road, Notting Hill, London (W10 5PR) Ask for the Spice Table 1pm Cost: £26.50 Lunch Includes: 1 Course Lunch, Service Charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks and additional courses Set over four floors of a corner townhouse in Notting Hill’s Golborne Road, this all-day, retro-modern draw – think leather armchairs, bare brick and reclaimed wood – offers cosy lounges for cocktails alongside a British menu with a slight American accent. Covered terraces with bars, open grills and fire pits and indoor fireplaces in the winter months. Join us for a one course Sunday Lunch with tasty dishes such as Roast Norfolk Chicken, Aged Rib of Beef or Belly of Pork with all the trimmings. They often have special seasonal Sunday Lunch drinks promotions such as bottomless Bloody Mary’s, Prosecco, cocktails which can be purchased on the day! A chill out Sunday.
Tour of Wimbledon Tennis Museum in Wimbledon
Date: Sunday 5th June 2016 Place: Wimbledon LTA, Church Road, Wimbledon (SW19 5AG) At Gate 4, Wimbledon LTA 1pm Cost: £29 Includes: Guided Tour and free time in Museum and booking fee Extras: Refreshments The Tour begins by passing through the Tea Lawn on the way to the statue honouring Fred Perry, the last British player to win the Gentleman’s Singles Championship. Next is No. 1 Court, which is one of Wimbledon’s show courts, it is the perfect complement to historic Centre Court and provides the ultimate experience for players and spectators alike. Highlights include The Championship trophies, a ‘ghost’ of John McEnroe speaking about the game and his well-known opponents in the very changing room he once used. The Museum also features a view of the world-famous Centre Court, film and video footage of great players in action and an extensive collection of tennis memorabilia. There is a cafe if you want refreshments.
Visit to Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium and Cream Tea
Date: Sunday 5th June 2016 Place: 152-154 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch, London (E2 6DG) Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium - Spice Table 3pm Cost: £19 Includes: Entrance to Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium, Cream Tea, Service Charge, Booking Fee, Spice Host Cat lovers only! This is for those of you who love the company of cats as we’re off to Lady Dinah’s, where visitors can kick back and relax with a cup of tea and spend time in the soothing company of some purring feline friends. Lady’s Dinah’s is a home for rescued cats and their greatest and most important duty is to ensure the happiness and well-being of London’s most loved felines. There are nine cats in the shop and they have two floors of the cafe to enjoy. They certainly don’t believe in overcrowding the cats into a small space. We have ninety minutes to enjoy and will also be indulging in a cream tea with a pot of any flavour tea and a scone (raisin or plain) with strawberry jam and Rodda’s clotted cream.
Monday Night Comedy at the Tattershall Castle
Date: Monday 6th June 2016 Place: Tattershall Castle, Victoria Embankment (SW1A 2HR) In Main Bar (downstairs) 7pm Cost: £24 Includes: entrance, Spice table and sharing platters of food type of supper, Spice host Extras: Drinks Many of comedy’s greatest stars have played or started their careers at The Monday Club including Graham Norton, Jerry Sadowitz, Dylan Moran, Mark Thomas, Harry Hill and Ross Noble. Tonight we are aboard the Tattershall Castle, which is a boat which is permanently moored at Victoria Embankment. The 130 seats regularly sell out. For tonight you should meet the Spice host in the main bar of the Tattershall Castle. It will be busy so look for the Spice sign. We will have a drink together before going through to the Comedy and our table. We are having some supper that will be at our table and it is sharing platters of food with a tasty selection to suit all tastes.
Fun Game of Ping Pong at Bounce in Holborn
Date: Tuesday 7th June 2016 Place: Bounce, 121 Holborn, London (3C1N 2TD) In the Bar - Spice Sign 7:15pm Cost: £12 Includes: Reserved Ping Pong Tables and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Back by popular demand! After the success of the last event, Spice shall return to the Ping Pong extravaganza that is Bounce Restaurant. Bounce is a great 1950’s style themed cocktail bar and restaurant with 17 Ping Pong (Table Tennis) Tables. We will first meet in the bar at Bounce where you can limber up your batting hand with a drink! We have tables booked for this fun evening where you can try your hand at an easy knock about on the Ping Pong tables. We went a couple of months ago and it was great fun, we had ping pong balls flying everywhere (so did everyone else on the other tables!).
Kensington Palace - The Story Behind Fashion Rules Restyled
Date: Wednesday 8th June 2016 Place: Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens, London (W8 4PX) details will be emailed 6:45pm to 8:30pm Cost: £19 Includes: The Story behind Fashion Rules Restyled and Spice host Join us for another great evening at Kensington Palace and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how the Fashion Rules Restyled exhibition was planned, designed and curated. Find out about the themes and stories behind the exquisite dresses, accessories and sketches and what surprising discoveries were revealed along the way. The Speaker is Libby Thompson who is collections curator with special responsibility for the dress collection – a unique collection of royal, ceremonial and court dress spanning back to the 17th century.
Georgian Dining Academy at Simpson's Tavern
Date: Thursday 9th June 2016 Place: Simpson's Tavern, Ball Court, 38 Cornhill, London (EC3V 9DR) At the Spice Table 7pm Cost: £65 Includes: Gin punch arrival drink, 3 course Georgian meal, unlimited wine and port, Georgian entertainment Extras: Georgian fancy dress optional! Join us for a very quirky evening indeed; one that truly steps back in Old London time… Simpsons Tavern is the oldest chop house in London established in 1757 and still, hidden in a warren of medieval alleyways, a secret lunch venue for City businessmen, serving hearty food with a distinct nod to the past. It is generally, though, just a lunch venue, closed during the evenings, when the passageways are at their most Dickensian (and yes Dickens knew both Simpsons and its neighbour, the George and Vulture…) Enter two delightful doyennes of Georgian high society: the glamorous Miss B and coquettish Kitty Pridden who, between them, have reinvented the concept of the Dining Salon, where the gentry meet, eat and converse, listen to music and discuss the issues of the day. Simpsons is the perfect venue for the Georgian Dining Academy. Costume is by no means obligatory, though many guests do come in splendid, about 50-50 costume/non costume. The evening begins with Georgian punch and live music of the day, before guests are seated in Simpsons’ traditional booths for a three-course meal, unlimited wine and port, interspersed with entertainment and short talks, candle-lit and cosy as an 18th Century Londoner might expect…
Royal Opera House Ballet - The Winter’s Tale
Date: Friday 10th June 2016 Place: Royal Opera House, Bow Street, Covent Garden, London (WC2E 9DD) ticket office - Spice Sign 7pm Cost: £34 Includes: Amphitheatre Ballet Ticket, Booking Fee, Spice Host We have secured seats for at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden for the Ballet, “The Winter’s Tale”! The Story: King Leontes, possessed by a mad jealousy, believes his pregnant wife Hermione to be having an affair with his childhood friend King Polixenes. He orders that Hermione’s baby, Perdita, be abandoned. Hermione and their young son die of distress and Leontes is overcome with remorse. Perdita is found and raised by a shepherd, and falls in love with Florizel, son of Polixenes. They flee Polixenes, who is consumed with fury at his son’s love for a commoner & seek shelter.
Spice U40 - Friday Night - The Road House
Date: Friday 10th June 2016 Place: The Piazza Covent Garden, London, (WC2E 8BE) Spice Table 7pm Cost: £3 Includes: Spice Host, Spice Table Friday night, drinking and dancing at the ROADHOUSE! An American-style retro diner and late-night bar that remains at the forefront of the London party scene. With its vibrant personality, distinct style, awesome food, signature collection of cocktails and an electric atmosphere evoked by live, nightly entertainment, this night offers the complete party package.
Borough Market Saturday Morning Stroll
Date: Saturday 11th June 2016 Place: The Globe Pub, 8 Bedale Street, London (SE1 9AL) Outside The Globe Pub 9:15am Cost: £6 Includes: Stroll around Borough Market, Spice Host Extras: Refreshments This morning we will enjoy a lovely stroll around the famous Borough Food Market which is now one of the largest food markets in the world. Our meet time for the stroll is 9.15am so as to beat the crowds so you can see the stalls at their very best with wonderful displays of fresh produce. This is a great time to take pictures so bring your camera/phone along if you want to capture some nice shots. This is also the best time to shop so bring a shopping bag if you want to buy some delicious produce for the weekend. After our stroll we will stop for refreshments (own cost) and socialise.
Canadian Canoeing along the River Wey
Date: Saturday 11th June 2016 Place: Bowers Lane, Weirs Lane, Guildford, Surrey (GU4 7ND) 10.45am for 11.00am start Cost: £55 Includes: Open paddle canoeing with full instruction and equipment Extras: Refreshments Today we have the fantastic opportunity to explore the River Wey by Canadian Canoe! Don't worry if you haven't done this before, all instruction and equipment is provided. We follow part of this very scenic river/early canal navigation from the north-east of Guildford (near Jacob's Well) through Guildford city centre where we stop for a break. There are shops close by for a coffee to warm us up if it decides to rain... When a Spice group paddled this river in August 2012 this was the chosen turn round point but we could head on south towards the meadows of Shalford for an extended paddle. The trip is full of interest, and includes riverside sculptures, buildings and architecture, flora and fauna and a variety of small watercraft. You will be on the water for approximately three hours. The event will take around four hours including stops. We paddle best quality Open Canoes, usually two paddlers per boat, as these are light, fast, comfortable and dry craft as small boats go. The trips are led by two British Canoe Union Level 3 coaches. This open canoe trip is suitable for all - all coaching, guidance, equipment, support and safety cover is included. You should dress as if you were going for a walk in the countryside, so do consider the weather. Soft soled shoes or boots are essential (trainers, wellies or deck shoes are ideal). Hard, rigid or leather soles are not suitable. Buoyancy aids are provided and to be worn when on or near the water. We provide plenty of dry storage for spare clothing, and food. Please bring a packed lunch, drinks and snacks for your picnic lunch, which can be transferred to your canoe. Your guides will meet you at Bowers Lane (off Clay Lane which runs between Jacob’s Well and Burpham).
Reigate Caves Tour and Lunch - Reigate in Surrey
Date: Saturday 11th June 2016 Place: Cafe Rouge, 1 Church Street, Reigate, Surrey (RH2 0AA) Outside Cafe Rouge - Spice Sign 10:55am Cost: £27.50 Includes: Guided Tour of Reigate Caves, 2 Course lunch, Service Charge and Spice Host We will meet outside Café Rouge in Reigate and then make our way to the Reigate Caves. Guides from the Wealden Cave & Mine Society will take us on a tour of Reigate’s historic underground heritage, known locally as the ‘Reigate Caves’ and comprising the Baron’s Cave in the Castle Grounds and the East & West Caverns in Tunnel Road. The guided tour will last about 45 minutes and we will be given details of the history and preservation of the caves and we will also have an opportunity to wander around some of the caves on our own. But don’t worry you won’t get lost! After our visit to the caves we will head to Carluccios for a 2 course lunch.
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Rod Stewart Concert and 1 Night Accommodation in Cardiff
Sat 11th Jun 2016 - Sun 12th Jun 2016 YHA Cardiff, East Tyndall Street, Wharf Road, Cardiff, Wales (CF10 4BB) Check in from 3.00p.m. £159 Concert & Room, (Deposit £30) includes: Concert ticket with booking fee, 1 night YHA accommodation with breakfast, Spice host. Sorry we cannot refund on tickets unless we are able to resell your ticket for you. Join us for a weekend in Cardiff to see the rock legend, Rod Stewart, at the Cardiff Millennium Stadium. From Maggie May to Sailing, Da Ya Think I’m Sexy and When I need You, Rod Stewart has released some of the biggest songs of all time. Now, he’s back with his 29th album, Another Country, and a tour of the UK and Ireland for summer 2016. Rod Stewart, the spiky-haired rocker with his unique, raspy soul voice hit the big time with his debut solo album, Every Picture Tells A Story, which was released in 1971, and along with its lead single Reason to Believe and it’s B-side Maggie May, it turned Rod Stewart from famous rock star into music legend. During his career, Rod Stewart has sold in excess of 200 million records worldwide, has been awarded a CBE by the Queen and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. The music legend has produced 29 studio albums throughout his career, which has spanned over five decades.
Spice Dines with Champagne at Langan's Brasserie in Mayfair
Date: Saturday 11th June 2016 Place: Stratton Street, Mayfair, London (W1J 8LB) Ask for the Spice London Table 7:30pm Cost: £54.50 for 2 Courses Includes: 2 course Dinner & Side Dish, Glass of Champagne, Coffee, Service Charge Spice Host Extras: Additional drinks and courses Join us for a two course Dinner with Champagne and Coffee at the legendary Langan’s Brasserie in Mayfair. Start with a cold glass of champagne then choose either a starter and main course or a main course and dessert followed by either Tea or Coffee. There is a great choice of dishes to choose from.
HMS Belfast and Hearty Breakfast by the Thames
Date: Sunday 12th June 2016 Place: Cote Brasserie, Hay's Galleriea, Tooley Street, London (SE1 2HD) Ask for the Spice Table 11am Cost: £32 Includes: Breakfast and hot drink at Cote and Entrance to HMS Belfast Extras: Additional drinks Before we start our Self-Guided Tour of HMS Belfast we will have a delicious breakfast at Cote Brasserie on the Thames by Hays Galleria. There are plenty of breakfast dishes to choose from such as Full English Breakfast, Eggs Florentine, Roy ale or Benedict, Smoked Scottish Salmon with Scrambled Eggs or continental breakfast with your choice of tea, coffee or fresh fruit juice. Then after our hearty breakfast we will walk down to HMS Belfast. HMS Belfast is Europe’s last surviving big gun armoured warship to have seen action in the Second World War. It is an impressive sight and this is a fantastic opportunity for us to go on board and explore all nine decks of this historic warship. We’ll discover the stories of life on board during the Second World War and beyond. Imagine sleeping in one of the tightly packed hammocks during duties in Arctic waters, or being stationed deep in the bowels of the ship when she opened fire in support of Allied troops on D-Day.
Clay Pigeon Shooting in Findon, West Sussex
Date: Sunday 12th June 2016 Place: Southdown Gun Club, Muntham Farm, Findon, West Sussex (BN14 0RQ) Spice host at the main office 10:30am Cost: £35 Includes: Tuition, all equipment, 25 clays, Spice host If you’ve always wanted to have a go at shooting a gun then this is the ideal event for you! Experience the thrill of pulling the trigger and enjoy the buzz when your clay target shatters! Learning to shoot clays couldn’t be any easier; Southdown is the obvious location, with award winning instructors and fantastic facilities with easy access.
Free Flowing Bubbly (2 hours) Afternoon Tea overlooking The Thames
Date: Sunday 12th June 2016 Place: Marriott Hotel, London County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd (SE1 7PB) Library Lounge Spice Table 3pm Cost: £49.50 Includes: Afternoon Tea with Free Flowing Bubbly for an hour and a half, Service, Spice Host Tea at County Hall is a truly magnificent experience and quintessentially English. Our tea will be served in the Library Lounge with spectacular views across the Thames to Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament. Our Bubbly afternoon tea includes free flowing bubbly for 2 hours with a choice of several varieties of tea, finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, a range of delicate homemade cakes combined to make for an unforgettable afternoon.
Unique Wolf Experience with Walk - Bedford
Date: Sunday 12th June 2016 Place: A428 between Bromham and Turvey, Bedfordshire 10:30am to 1pm Cost: £45 Includes: exclusive Spice visit opportunity to walk & feed the wolves Walk and feed the wolves - another unusual and truly amazing experience and a popular event with Spice members. We have run this event many times and always receive excellent feedback. Are you afraid of the Big Bad Wolf - probably, so now is a chance to confront your fears and dispel those childhood myths. We meet the wolves and their handlers at the Anglian Wolf Society which is located between Bromham and Turvey near Bedford. The Anglian Wolf Society is a small private sanctuary for wolves and they support and raise funds for wolf conservation. They are not open to the public but have kindly agreed to allow Spice members to visit the centre to learn more about the wolves their habits. There are opportunities to feed them and have some hands on experience. We also accompany one of the wolves on a walk around the adjacent land. The handlers will make you very welcome and chat to you throughout the whole wolf experience and answer any of your questions.
Unique Sailing on the Fabulous Tall Ship Mercedes on the Thames
Date: Sunday 12th June 2016 Place: Visitor Centre, Southend Pier, Western Esplanade, Southend, Essex (SS1 1EE) Meet: Visitor Information Centre at Entrance of Southern Pier 1:30pm Cost: £50 Member, £53 Guest Includes: Three Hour sail on Tall Ship Mercedes, Southen Pier Entrance, Drink aboard The Mercedes, Spice Host With the great success off last year’s sailing, join us for a fabulous three hour sail on the Tall ship Mercedes from Southend in Essex. We will meet at Southend Pier Visitor Information Centre then take the Pier Train 1.34 miles (only runs every 30 mins) to the end Southend Pier. Then we will make our way on board the Tall Ship. The inauguration of the Tall sailing ship Mercedes was in May 2005 and she is one of the youngest ships in the international fleet of tall ships. She has two masts and has an impressive square rigging with 900 m² of total sail area. Speed under sail is 16 knots. She is 50 metres long and has beautiful lines with a comfortable deck, bar and lounge area. Included during our sail is a hot or cold drink.
Latin Krazy Salsa Dancing and Tapas Supper
Date: Thursday 16th June 2016 Place: Bar Salsa, 96 Charing Cross Road, London (WC2H 0JG) In the Bar - Spice sign 7pm Cost: £24.50 Includes: dance class, sharing/tapas meal and Spice Host Extras: Drinks We’re hitting Bar Salsa, which is London’s Hottest Latin Nightspot and restaurant based in the heart of Soho. Apart from the Mexican style food an added bonus for the evening is the live music and dancing till 2.00a.m. There are Salsa dance lessons for beginners as well as intermediates, which starts at 7.30p.m. till 8.30p.m. and this is included in the cost of the event. For our meal we will be having a sharing tapas meal. You must locate the Spice Co-Ordinator in the bar as you need to collect your dance ticket. This is a fun evening with great music to Salsa the night away.
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Slovenia Photography Tour
Thu 16th Jun 2016 - Mon 20th Jun 2016 Bled, Slovenia Final joining instructions will be emailed £949 Twin Share, £1029 Single (Deposit £200) Includes: Flights from London Stansted to Ljubljana, transfers, private transport during tour, 4 nights B&B in the 3 star Hotel Jelovica, Bled City Tax, 4 days photographic tuition Extras: Insurance, local payment €50, lunches, evening meals, drinks and any optional entrance fees Discover Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj and the Bohinj valley. Join us and discover Slovenia and the Julian Alps and experience a range of incredible locations. Capture images of stunning mountain locations, lakes and fast flowing rivers. We explore Lake Bled and its iconic Church of the Assumption on Bled Island, photograph traditional “Pletna” boats, gracious swans and fantastic sunsets. By the way of contrast, we travel to tranquil Lake Bohinj in the heart of the Julian Alps and experience scenes of everyday life in traditional villages such as Stara Fuzina with beautiful displays of flowers, agricultural details and the sound of cowbells. For more information please see our web site.
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Walking Weekend Beddgelert Snowdonia
Fri 17th Jun 2016 - Sun 19th Jun 2016 The Royal Goat Hotel, Beddgelert, Wales (LL55 4YE) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £179 Twin Share £219 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £40 Single) includes: 2 night's Hotel accommodation 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals & 2 guided walks each day Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: The Royal Goat, a cracking hotel, located in the charming village of Beddgelert and set in the heart of Snowdonia! The chef has a super menu of tasty and filling meals and there are real ales in the bar and also there are two or three charming country pubs within a short reach of the hotel. Add to this the superb walking that literally surrounds this centre, with the high lofty ridges of Moel Hebog and Yr Aran. But you don’t have to climb these mighty peaks, it’s just as wonderful to gaze up at them from a peaceful lakes, or to wander over the heather clad moors, stroll by the tumbling rivers or wander through the secluded woodland. All of which makes this weekend’s event a very attractive and interesting walking weekend, see you out on the hills! The WalkWise Walking Programme: The proliferation of perfect routes in this area is unsurpassed. There are so many amazing mountains to attain and each one has numerous routes up and around them. The area is stunning for absolutely all levels of walks too! To allow you to choose a walk that suits you best, WalkWise UK will provide a minimum of two walks on each day, led by professional and knowledgeable walking guides. On both days there will be a harder walk of 10-12 miles with 2500+ft of ascent, and a gentler walk of 7-9 miles with less ascent. All walks are weather dependent and own transport or coaches may be taken to the walk starts.
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Center Parcs Sherwood Weekend
Fri 17th Jun 2016 - Mon 20th Jun 2016 Sherwood Forest, Rufford, Newark, Nottingham (NG22 9DN) Check in from 12 noon Villa available at 3.00p.m. £159 Twin Share, £234 Sole Occupancy (Deposit £50)
Includes: Party Theme: TBC * 2 Discos * Sports * Exercise Classes and updated from last year ‘Dastardly Spice Challenge’ (optional) Our unmissable summer Center Parcs Weekend is now a Spice institution - a brilliant weekend break with TWO great exclusive parties and as much sport or relaxation as you can cope with! Plus we have the return of the Dastardly Spice Challenge adding a brilliant fun event into the weekend which will be another hi-light – planned by Dianne from Spice London if you were there last year and took part in this then you’ll know how just how much fun it was but don’t worry there will be a few changes to keep things fresh this time! This is a mix of Treasure Hunt, Photo Challenge and Scavenger Hunt with a couple of twists. Teams of five. We will put teams together if you don’t have 5 of you. There will be a small charge (£4 in advance & £5 on the weekend) for this activity. The sub-tropical paradise is the centre of attraction with giant waves, water chutes, Jacuzzi’s, flumes, a thrilling wild water rapids ride, and much more. You can spend all day in the tropically heated 'dome', or move outdoors - tennis, squash, sailing, bikes, canoeing, gym, badminton, bowls, archery, - the list is endless ( you pay extra for these). There are also few extra Spice Events organised by your local Spice Group like our Welcome Drinks Reception, BBQs, Badminton group sessions, ten pin bowling games, etc, to provide some great group focal points during the weekend. Or you can just choose to chill! We also have our exclusive Friday and Saturday night parties! Friday Night sees our exclusive Welcome Disco to get the weekend off to a flying start and Saturday night is our exclusive Spice Fancy Dress Party. Both Parties are included in the price and a Spice wrist band will be included with your weekend joining pack, giving you entry to the parties and our events/activity programme. We are still working on a Fancy Dress theme which is optional, however almost everyone takes part even if just making a little bit of effort. A poll of ideas is ongoing on the Spice UK Facebook page until the end of February. Depending on what comes from that unless there is an outright winner we may narrow it down to the top four and get you to vote again – we will also have to get Center Parcs approval! Sample programme of the weekend (subject to change!) Friday – Arrive and find your lodge Meet your fellow villa mates and head to your welcome drinks in your coordinators villa! Then it’s on to the Welcome Disco in the Venue. Saturday Grab a bite to eat and let the day’s activities begin. Today you can choose from AM short orientation walk of the village centre (great for any newbies or just to get some air!) AM exercise class in the Venue (1-2 hours) PM Group badminton sessions (small charge) PM Ten Pin Bowling (small charge) PM the Great Spice Quiz (you do not want to miss this!) PM Rapids meet up in the Village Dome PM moderate mountain bike ride off Village Back to the villa to freshen up and a bite to eat. Get into your Fancy Dress or best party dresses (gentlemen) and it’s off to the Venue once again to PARTY! Sunday - Plenty to do today AM before the cars start to build up Speedy Road Bike ride off Village. AM exercise class in the Venue AM Steve easy walk 5-6 miles off Village AM Easy bike ride around the Village AM Moderate bike ride off Village PM Dastardly Spice Challenge (small charge) Farewell BBQ’s with your local group Evening Spa deal (spaces will be limited so will need to be pre-booked - more details to follow)
Dinner Shuffle St Albans - L'Italiana
Date: Saturday 18th June 2016 Place: 3 French Row, St Albans (AL3 5DU) L'Italiana - Ask for Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £4 Includes: Shuffle Meal, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks and food - pay as you go evening Since L'Italiana Restaurant was established, it has built up the enviable reputation of being the finest Italian restaurant in St. Albans. It's a lovely place for a dinner so why not book yourself a place and come along for this Spice meal. This is a pay as you go evening as there is a fantastic selection of tasty Italian dishes for you to try. You can order and pay for what you have on the evening. Our Spice host for the evening will be there to welcome you and numbers permitting we will do a shuffle to move you round the table after each course so that you can socialise with ease.
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Sailing Introductory Taster Day
Saturday 18th June 2016 Chichester Marina, Chichester Harbour, West Sussex (PO20 7EJ) 9am to 4:30pm £160 (Deposit £25) includes: Instruction, lunch, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks, and all safety equipment and diesel fees. Waterproofs are available free of charge. Extras: Marina fees On this event you experience the fun of sailing a modern, safe, yacht in scenic and sheltered waters. You feel the excitementof casting off the lines and breaking your bond with the land - then helping to raise the sails and feeling the wind start to push us along… all under the guidance of an experienced skipper. You sail on “Kelana”, the yacht that is also used for the weekend and cross-Channel events. Starting from Chichester Marina, Chichester you join the yacht at 09:00. Following a safety briefing and familiarisation with the yacht and your fellow Spice crew members, we set off for our day’s sail out of the harbour and into the Solent - that stretch of sea that lies between the Isle of Wight and the mainland. It is the most popular cruising ground in UK waters with much to see and plenty of other boats to add to the interest.
Entertaining Islington Guided Tour
Date: Saturday 18th June 2016 Place: Highbury & Islington Tube Station, London (N5 1RA) Outside tube station - Spice Sign 2pm to 4:30pm Cost: £12.50 Includes: guided 2 hour tour with Joanna Moncrieff Extras: Drinks at the pub along the way From the music halls of the 19th century, through to the theatre and music pubs of the 1970s and 1980s and the award winning Almeida Theatre, Islington has historically been a place for entertaining Londoners. On this walk with Clerkenwell & Islington Guide, Joanna Moncrieff, we will hear about the children’s theatre that emerged from a bombed out temperance hall, the dingy pub that saw many fledgling but now famous bands play and two venues that have won Time Out music th awards including a chapel that was described in the 19 Century as “musically at zero” but later on produced a choir capable of singing excerpts from the Messiah. We will also see the original Big Brother house, the theatre where an Egyptian mummy was once unwrapped and the site of one of London’s most famous music halls together with hearing about the lives of the stars that played there. As with most of Joanna’s walks, this walk includes a halfway half hour stop in a historic Islington pub and will finish in another pub of note close to Angel tube station. Joanna's mobile is 07790 292 444 - please ring on the day if you are lost or not turning up although the phone will be turned off after the start of the walk.
Spice Dines Out – Carlo’s Trattoria in Guildford
Date: Saturday 18th June 2016 Place: Newlands Corner, Guildford, Surrey (GU4 8SE) Carlo's Trattoria - Ask for Spice Table 7pm Cost: £4 Includes: Table booking and Spice Host Extras: Drinks and food - pay as you go evening Tonight we bring you a chance to meet lots of new Spice friends whilst enjoying a lovely meal and the odd drink or two! Our meal is at Carlo’s Trattoria a family run Italian restaurant nestling almost at the very top of beautiful Newlands Corner. Their passion is to cook traditional and modern Mediterranean food with love and authenticity and they have been voted best Guildford restaurant and a favourite place to eat in Guildford. This is a popular restaurant so early bookings are advised. There is an extensive menu of tasty Italian delights and you choose and pay on the evening for what you have. We charge a booking fee and will make a table booking for the Spice and provide a Spice host for the evening.
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Thai Dinner Shuffle at Mai Thai in Wimbledon
Saturday 18th June 2016 75 The Broadway, Wimbledon (SW191QE) Spice Table 7:30pm £29 Includes: Dinner shuffle, 2 course dinner (starter and main course) with shared, rice, Vegetables and noodles, Service Charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks and additional courses Located centrally on Wimbledon Broadway, Mai Thai Restaurant provides the very best of authentic Thai cuisine in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Tonight join us for a two course Dinner Shuffle where you can choose off of the menu a starter and main course within a price range then there will be shared vegetables, noodles and rice. Vegetarian options available. This is a great way to meet some Spice members from in and around your local Spice area and great for new members.
Unique Dining and Entertainment at Circus
Date: Saturday 18th June 2016 Place: Circus Restaurant, 27/29 Endell Street, Covent Garden (WC2H 9BA) Ask for the Spice table 7:30pm Cost: £54 Includes: Entertainment, 2 Course Meal, Service, Spice Host Extras: Drinks Tonight we’re heading off to Circus in London which ‘isn't just a restaurant, it's a whole experience'. Here you might just find aerial performers spinning in a silver hoop above your head, or gymnasts performing gravity defying stunts while you dine. Off the commercial beaten track, yet in the heart of Central London, Circus is the perfect 'hidden gem' enhanced by the nightly short, sharp bursts of entertainment, designed to be inviting, intriguing, weird and wonderful. Circus choose never to reveal details of each night's succinct performances, preferring to surprise guests and maintain the air of mystery. Though spontaneity is key, diners will often see at least two acts during the course of their meal. To complement the live entertainment, DJs keep things up-tempo at weekends, playing until the early hours, mixing party tunes and forgotten classics.
Visit to Kenwood House and Lunch at The Brew House
Date: Sunday 19th June 2016 Place: Spaniards Road, Hampstead, London (NW3 7JJ) Main Entrance (At back of House)- Spice Sign 11am Cost: £21 Includes: Visit to Kenwood House, 1 Course Meal and drink, Service, Spice Host Kenwood is a masterpiece by a master: the famous 18th-century architect Robert Adam. A plain brick villa 250 years ago, it was by 1779 a neoclassical triumph, ‘amazingly gay, magnificent, beautiful and picturesque’, in the words of Adam himself. Today this magnificent house is open again after a major refurbishment project begun in 2012. Eight rooms in Kenwood House have been represented and reinterpreted. The rooms were redecorated to focus on the two key areas of historic significance at Kenwood - the principal Adam Rooms and the Iveagh Bequest. Its decoration is restored, its slate roof repaired, its internationally acclaimed collection of Old Masters and British paintings, the Iveagh Bequest, rehung in the south front rooms, and areas previously closed, now reopened. Set on the edge of Hampstead Heath and surrounded by tranquil landscaped gardens, Kenwood is one of London's hidden gems. Discover the vast array of masterpieces hanging in this grand setting, including Rembrandt's self-portrait, and be awed by the breathtaking beauty of architect Robert Adam's library and well as the stunning interiors. After our visit to the beautiful neoclassical building, we will be going to The Brew House just next door to Kenwood. The Brew House and Stewards Room was originally the Service wing of Kenwood House. It offers a delicious range of homemade hot dishes, salads and vegetarian options. Included is a one course meal and drink.
Sunday Brunch at Hotel Du Vin in Brighton
Date: Sunday 19th June 2016 Place: 2 Ship Street, Brighton, East Sussex (BN1 1AD) Ask for the Spice Table 12:30pm Cost: £34 Includes: Four Course Sunday Brunch, Service charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks Today we will be having Sunday Brunch at French Bistro Restaurant, Hotel du Vin in Brighton. The restaurant features European classic cuisine with a contemporary edge with the philosophy of using the finest and freshest local produce. Our four course brunch menu consists of a soup course followed by a help yourself lavish French Market Table, the centrepiece of Sunday Brunch at the renowned Hotel du Vin. An exciting choice of fresh seafood, charcuterie, pâtés, rillettes and a selection of salads, vegetables and freshly baked artisan breads awaits you. Then for your main course choose a dish from a plethora of your Sunday lunch favourites including traditional roasts, steak frites, Pie du jour, salmon, haddock, risotto and a few other seasonal dishes To finish there are some sweet delights such as French favourites Apple Tarte Tatin, Crème Brûlée, Profiteroles or a cheese board. Bon Appétit! Please book early so we can secure your place. This is a sample menu as it may change according to seasonal produce.
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White Water Rafting - Lee Valley
Sunday 19th June 2016 Station Road, Waltham Cross (EN9 1AB) Lee Valley White Water Centre 11:30am £59 Includes: White water rafting session, equipment, Spice host. Sorry, there can be no refunds on tickets unless we are able to re-sell your ticket. Extras: Refreshments Are you brave enough to tackle the blast of the rapids? Get set for a fabulous time of unforgettable adrenalin pumping white water rafting. Join Spice as we tackle nerve wracking grade 4 rapids, drops and fast white water. This is a fabulous chance to ride the rapids, so come and take the plunge! Upon arrival you’ll be kitted out with a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet and boots before going through a safety briefing and some flat water exercises on the lake – it’s here that you’ll learn the secrets of navigating the world class white water course. We'll get several runs down the course so that we can start calmly and get used to the feel of the boat and then we’ll progressively up the fear factor each time. By our final run we’ll be surfing, high siding, spinning and nose dunking with the very best! After our adventure, we’ll relax and unwind in the café bar and have something hot/cold to drink (payable on the day). Snacks are also available at the café bar. The wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet and boots are provided but you need to wear swimwear under the wetsuit and you need to take a towel. Basic level of swimming required.
Wild Orchid and Flower Walk in Chafford Gorges in Essex
Date: Sunday 19th June 2016 Place: Chafford Gorges Nature Park, Drake Road, Grays, Essex (RM16 6RG) Park Visitor Centre 9:45am Cost: £7.50 Includes: Guided 2 hour walk in Chafford Gorges Join the warden at Chafford Gorges Nature Park for a two hour walk through the Chafford Gorge near Grays in Essex to look at some of the rare and beautiful wild-flowers such as the wild orchid that live in the park. This is an informative walk and is a shared event with the General public so please book early. This is a great way to meet up with other Spice members in your local area. We will meet at the Visitor Centre in the Park.
Meet and Eat at Bills Restaurant in Sevenoaks
Date: Thursday 23rd June 2016 Place: 42-44 London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent (TN13 1AS) Ask for the Spice table Cost: £3 Includes: Spice host and booking fee Extras: Food, drink and service charge Tonight is a meet and Eat Social at the new Bills Restaurant for something to eat. Bill's restaurants are renowned for their warm welcome, great service and delicious, freshly prepared dishes. There are lots of dishes to choose from with very reasonable prices. At the restaurant you just pay on the night for you food, drinks and service charge. Our host for this evening will be there to meet you and help with the introductions. This is a great way to meet other members in the area so please do come along and join us!
Caribbean Beach Shack Social and Food at the Rum Kitchen
Date: Friday 24th June 2016 Place: 1st Floor, Kingly Court, Carnaby, Soho, London (W1B 5PW) Spice table 6:30pm Cost: £19.99 Includes: One course meal, service charge and Spice host Extras: Drinks The Rum Kitchen is a Caribbean eatery that bends the rules. Focusing on bringing Caribbean beach shack food and cocktails with travel inspired flavours to London, they have their roots in the Caribbean but certainly aren’t your regular jerk shack! The menu has a few classics but even those have been given the Rum Kitchen twist. Join us tonight for a fun social. We have included a one course meal so that we can book a table. You will be able to choose from dishes such as BBQ pork ribs, jerk fried chicken, chilli cheese burger and the twist burger. We have also included a side dish such as sweet potato fries, coconut rice and peas or plantain with bang bang hot sauce. Drinks and extra courses can be bought on the night.
Friday Lunch at HMP Brixton Restaurant
Date: Friday 24th June 2016 Place: Jebb Avenue, Brixton, London (SW2 5XP) Final details will be emailed 12:30pm Cost: £44.50 Includes: 3 course lunch, cocktail of the day, tea/coffee and Spice host Extras: Additional drinks if required Spice have a very unique dining experience for you, we are going for lunch at the Clink Restaurant inside HMP Brixton. The restaurant is run by The Clink Charity. Boasting fancy décor and an a la carte menu, from the inside, this looks like any other first – class restaurant. Clink Restaurant is proving very popular with visitors and this 120 seater restaurant provides a lovely menu for us to enjoy. We will be served by and eat food prepared by 28 trained inmates. There are no alcoholic drinks served but we are having the cocktail of the day and there are plenty other soft drinks we can have such as Sparkling Ginger & Lemongrass, Sparkling Pomegranate & Elderflower and Apple & Lulo juice as well as coke, fruit juices and water.
Walking Weekend Bournemouth Hampshire and Dorset Coast
Date: Fri 24th Jun 2016 - Sun 26th Jun 2016 Place: The Oceana Hotel Royale, Bournemouth (BH1 3EQ) Arrive from 4.00pm, evening meal at 8.00pm Cost: £179 Twin, Single, £229 Sole Occupancy (Deposit £35 Twin, £40 Single, £45 Sole Occupancy) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals and 2 days of guided walks with a choice of two walks each day Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: Bournemouth is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the south coast of England mainly due to the magnificent World Heritage Coastline. What better way is there but to enjoy a weekend other than residing at the lovely Hotel Wessex Hotel on Bournemouth’s exclusive West Cliff. This hotel is our favourite Bournemouth Hotel and comes complete with Spa and Leisure facilities that include both an indoor swimming pool and outdoor pool, gym and on site beauty treatment. The surrounding area comprise of beautiful coastline and stunning countryside with a wide variety of attractions to make your weekend extra special. There are many excellent beaches nearby and it is only a short walk to the town centre and it is an ideal springboard for us to explore the Dorset and Hampshire coastline. This year we will spend one day exploring the stunning area around Studland, Old Harry’s Rocks and the Isle of Purbeck and for our other day we will head east towards Christchurch and Lymington with stunning sea vistas and the Isle of Wight forming their backdrop.
Behind the Scenes Guided Tour of the Transport Museum Depot
Date: Saturday 25th June 2016 Place: 2 Museum Way, 180-120 Gunnersbury Lane (W3 9BQ) Acton Depot Main entrance - Spice Sign 1:45pm Cost: £16 Includes: Guided Tour of the Transport museum Depot in Acton, Spice host Join Spice members for a behind the scenes special Guided Tour by a curator around The Transport Museum Depot at Acton. The depot is a fabulous working museum storing over 37000 objects including many historical and rare road and rail vehicles, spanning over 100 years, bus and rail sheds, ticket machines, signs, models, photographs, engineering drawings and uniforms. Together these form one of the most comprehensive and important records of urban transport anywhere in the world. The Depot is only open to the public a few times a year so don’t miss this nostalgic fascinating chance to see behind the scenes of the London Transport Museums’ Depot.
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Canadian Canoeing and Camping Weekend - Wye Valley
Sat 25th Jun 2016 - Sun 26th Jun 2016 Bracelands Campsite, Coleford, Gloucester (GL16 7NP) 10am on Saturday morning 10am £120 Includes: All specialist equipment required for canoeing, plus river guiding, coaching and safety cover from Highly qualified and experienced canoe coaches. Extras: Campsite fees, transport, meals, catering and food costs. The Wye is one of the classic canoeing rivers in the UK. The Wye Valley is still largely unspoilt, it has its own interesting wildlife, culture and history... and the scenery is wonderful! On its middle and lower sections it offers relaxed and easygoing paddling with the occasional straight-forward rapid... to add a bit of further interest! This weekend gives an ideal and gentle introduction to canoeing on a river with a flow. It will focus on techniques appropriate for paddling in easy grade rapids and moving water. We meet up on Friday evening and will be paddling on the Saturday and Sunday. The price includes 2 days' paddling (4-5 hours each day) and tuition. NB. does not include transport, accommodation and meals. Please Note: This cruise is most suitable for those people who have had some previous experience of canoeing or kayaking and would like to experience the next step up from still/placid water. However, complete beginners are also welcome but you need to be prepared and confident about the (low) possibility of falling into coldish water! Further details can be found on our website.
Indoor Skydiving Experience
Date: Saturday 25th June 2016 Place: Aikix, Xscape, 602 Marlborough Gate, Central Milton Keynes (MK9 3XS) Final details will be emailed12:15pm Cost: £43 Includes: indoor skydiving experience and a high quality digital photo to download for free Imagine a wind tunnel that can be used for testing the aerodynamics of an F1 racing car, turn it upright, step into the airflow and you are skydiving. It's a proven concept operating in several countries to the benefit of the skydiving community and anyone else who wishes to taste the thrill of freefall in a completely safe environment.
Gordons Wine Bar Saturday Lunch Social
Date: Saturday 25th June 2016 Place: Gordon's, 47 Villiers Street, London (WC2N 6NE) Ask for Spice table-Winevault downstairs 12:15pm Cost: £16 Includes: Selection of cheeses/pate and salad platters to share, service charge and Spice Host Today we are heading to Gordon’s Wine Bar near Embankment which is thought to be the oldest Wine Bar in London and has been established in its present form since 1890. We have booked an area downstairs in the original atmospheric candlelit wine vault cellar where we can socialise without the blare of loud music. We will be sharing a delicious selection of platters of English and Continental cheeses, pate, homemade salads with French bread. The wine bar has a great selection of wines to choose from. The building in which the bar and vault is situated was originally home to Samuel Pepys in the 1680’s then home to Rudyard Kipling in the 1890’s and the building is now named Kipling House. As you enter this historic building and make your way downstairs to the bar you will find yourself in a room with old wooden walls covered in historical newspaper cuttings and memorabilia faded with age and a very old wine vault cellar which is lit by candle light.
New You Boot Camp Fitness Day in Richmond Park
Date: Saturday 25th June 2016 Place: Richmond Park, Surrey final details on meet point will be emailed 9am to 4pm Cost: £50 Includes: full day of fitness and exercise - go on you can do it! Why not get fit and have fun on this fantastic day out at New You Boot Camp Military Fitness Day in Richmond Park, London. New You Boot Camp is the world leader in Boot Camps and just one day will give you a taste into boot camp training. All fitness levels can attend so don’t be scared off if you think you have a low fitness level. As much as it is a challenge it truly is brilliant fun and a great thing to do whether on your own or with a group of friends. · Up to 6 hours of training from a World Class New You Boot Camp Instructor. · Training advice to continue through your daily life · An amazing work out day to really kick start your metabolism and fitness · A great amount of fun throughout the day. · A really good way to meet new friends or to spend a day with your friends. · A whole day to make sure you are really making your life more healthy. · Spend a day making yourself fitter, lighter and stronger!
Saturday Night Funkynation at Ronnie Scott’s
Date: Saturday 25th June 2016 Place: 47 Frith Street, Soho, London (W1D 4HT) Upstairs Ronnie Scott’s Bar 7:30pm Cost: £20 Includes: Reserved area, DJ Music, Sharing Platters, Service charge and Spice Host Extras: Drinks, and Door Charge of £10.00 after 8pm Tonight we are heading to the popular venue of Ronnie Scott’s for their Saturday Funkynation disco night with the very best DJ’s playing jazz, funk, soul, 80’s boogie and vintage grooves. We will have a reserved area so you can keep your toes tapping, or maybe have a boogie on the dance floor. We will be having some sharing platters such as meat, cheese or deliboards at 8.15 so please arrive before this so you don’t miss out. This is a great way to meet other members and have a fun night. The music kicks off at 8.00pm.
Italian Shuffle at Casa Mia in Hampton Court, Surrey
Date: Sunday 26th June 2016 Place: Vecchia Roma, 55 Bridge Rd, East Molesey, Surrey (KT8 9ER) Spice Table 12:30pm Cost: £29 Includes: 3 course shuffle meal lunch with service and Spice Host Extras: Drinks are payable on the day Casa Mia serves traditional Italian dishes and also a number of international specialities. We will have a lovely three course lunch in this very popular restaurant. To help you socialise with ease this will be one of our ‘shuffle’ meals where you change places during the meal so that you have the opportunity to chat to lots of members during the lunch. The menu is subject to change but to give you an idea of what is on offer: Starters: Either individual starter or selection of Hors D’Oeurves from the Sunday buffet. Main course Roast of the day, Fillet of Sole, Veal Escalope Siciliana, Duck with cherry sauce, Chicken in cream and mushroom sauce, all served with seasonal vegetables. Then a delicious dessert from the dessert trolley.
Dim Sum Sunday at Dim T, Unlimited Dim Sum Lunch
Date: Sunday 26th June 2016 Place: Dim T, 32 Charlotte Street, London (W1T 2NQ) At the Spice table 1pm Cost: £24.50 Includes: Unlimited dim sum, service charge, Spice host Extras: Drinks Join us for unlimited dim sum at Dim T’s Dim Sum Sunday. Dim T is a whole new world of Asian dining. Watch the chefs preparing and steaming the dim sum – enough to make your mouth water! Come along and enjoy this dim sum lunch. This is a great way to spend a relaxing Sunday lunchtime, socialising with fellow Spice members. (Please note this offer is only for dim sum and not any other items on the menu).
Outdoor Archery in Hertfordshire
Date: Sunday 26th June 2016 Place: Westmill Farm, Westmill Road, Ware (SG12 0ES) Top Events - Spice Sign 2:15pm Cost: £30 Includes: 1 Hour Archery Experience, All Equipment, Spice Host If you’ve ever fancied being William Tell or Robin Hood then this is the place to start! This target archery session is a great introduction to archery and may set you on the path to more serious involvement in the sport. There is absolutely no experience needed at all as our instructors will do a great job of teaching you all you need to know in order to hit the target! We’ll be shooting ‘bare bow style’ (no sights), with modern recurve bows and alloy arrows, which will be appropriately matched to your height and size. The session will start with a beginner’s safety briefing so everyone is fully aware of the environment and how to behave on the archery range. Following this, you will be instructed on the correct shooting stance and the method of holding the bow. Once the stance is sorted, you will be briefed on how to safely hold and load an arrow, and then all you need to do is… aim and release. Simple!
London Royal Parks Murder Mystery Trail
Date: Sunday 26th June 2016 Place: Speakers Corner, Hyde Park (W2 2EU) Speakers Corner, Hyde Park Corner 11am Cost: £10 Includes: Organised Murder Mystery Trail and Spice Host Extras: Refreshments Join us for a great day out in some of the beautiful parks in Central London including Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. This is another one of our very popular Murder Mystery trails where you have a set of clues laid out around the parks which then leads to the Mysterious Murderer! The Trail starts at Speakers' Corner and finishes at Hyde Park Corner taking in the Serpentine, ponds, statues and gardens along the way. It is about 5 miles long and will take around 3.5 hours at an easy pace. You will be split into teams and sent off every few minutes to search for the clues. There are cafes and conveniences around the parks so you can stop for refreshments en-route. The nearest tubes are Marble Arch and Hyde Park Corner.
String Quartet, Opera Cabaret and Dinner at Sarastro
Date: Sunday 26th June 2016 Place: Sarastro Restaurant, 126 Drury Lane (WC2B 5QG) Ask for Spice table 7pm Cost: £42.50 includes three course Opera meal, service and admin charge Sarastro, named for a character in Mozart’s Magic Flute is known as ‘the show after the show’. The restaurant in Drury Lane is a rich tapestry of flamboyant artwork, gilt furniture and wall mounted opera boxes which provide a spectacular view of the interior. On Monday evenings Sarastro’s has live performances by singers from international Opera Houses including the Royal Opera and English National Opera. Performances include offerings from younger talent and students some destined to be the next virtuosos and divas of tomorrow! We will be having a special Opera Cabaret menu – sample menu may include dishes such as shared mezze of Hummus, Tzatsiki, Cous Cous salad Cheese and Mushrooms Borek. There is a choice of main course for example Lamb, Salmon, Chicken or Penne Arrabiata Pasta. For dessert there are dishes such as chocolate fudge cake, coffee and mascarpone cake or fresh fruit salad. This is a wonderful restaurant with elaborate furnishings and a great atmosphere for a Monday evening. A recent review quotes “A night out at Sarastro leaves one feeling like the central character of a classic opera, say La Boheme, Tosca or La Traviata. It's all in the decor: Arabian Nights meets La Scala meets Roman orgy. Why not treat yourself – you know you deserve it!
Dine and Social at Chef Peking in Harpenden
Date: Tuesday 28th June 2016 Place: Chef Peking, 5 - 6 Church Green, Harpenden (AL5 2TP) Ask for the Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Spice table booking and Spice Host Extras: Drinks and food - pay as you go evening Tonight we’re off to Harpenden in Hertfordshire for a ‘dine and social’. The idea behind the evening is to get together with other members in the area and have a relaxed social evening The Chef Peking is Hertfordshire’s premier Chinese restaurant specialising in Peking, Szechuan and Cantonese styles which means there are dishes to suit most tastes and budgets. This is a great way to meet and socialise with other Spice members in the surrounding area so why not join us. This is a pay as you go evening. We charge a small booking fee and we will book the table at the restaurant and provide a Spice host.
Supper and Social at Cote in Reigate
Date: Tuesday 28th June 2016 Place: 21 Bell Street, Reigate, Surrey (RH2 7AD) The Bell Inn - Spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Pay as you go event, with Spice Host Extras: Pay for your food, drinks and service charge This social is aimed at anyone in this area to get together for a relaxing social evening. The evening is open to new and longstanding members alike and our host will be there to meet you on arrival. Tonight we’ll first meet at The Bell, in the bar for a drink and chat before we head to Cote Brasserie for some supper. Your Spice host will meet you in the bar from 7.30pm to 8.00pm and we will go as a group to the restaurant. Cote Bistro in Reigate offers simple freshly prepared French food in a Bistro style atmosphere and we thought it was worth a Spice visit.
Live Music and Drinks at Dion Bar near St Pauls
Date: Wednesday 29th June 2016 Place: Paternoster House, 65 St Pauls Churchyard (EC4M 8AB) Ground Floor Bar - Spice Sign 7:30pm Cost: £3 Includes: booking fee and Spice host Dion St Paul’s runs parallel with St Paul’s cathedral and has stunning views overlooking the cathedral and grounds. It has a capacity of 300 with ground and basement level, and an outside seating area - the perfect setting to enjoy your favourite tipple. Meet in the downstairs bar from 7.30pm and enjoy a welcome drink of a glass of wine, beer or soft drink. You can choose a supper dish from a Spice menu such as Club Sandwich with thick chips, Homemade Beef Burger and thick chips, Goujons of fish with fries, Cheese Platter, Jerk Chicken skewers with fries, Halloumi skewers with fries or Crispy duck pancakes with fries. Wednesday nights are when the All Stars band play at dion St. Paul’s. A key date in the City diary, with the opportunity to experience some of the finest session musicians in the world playing in the comfort and luxury of the City’s best champagne and wine bar. They start with mellow sets to wind you down after work and then build the mood and the tempo through the evening, finishing with some of the finest funk, soul and dance floor classics ever written. Dion is the only bar in the City to have a top band perform weekly, offering the same quality of entertainment that would be found in a West End Jazz club.
Meet and Eat at the Old Windmill near Hanningfield, Essex
Date: Wednesday 29th June 2016 Place: South Hanningfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex (CM3 8HJ) The Old Windmill - spice Table 7:30pm Cost: £3.50 Includes: Pay on the day event and Spice Host Extras: Pay as you go for Food, drinks and Service charge Tonight we are going to a lovely country pub called The Old Windmill in Hanningfield not far from Chelmsford. The Old Windmill is a traditional village pub with cask ales, log fires, Oak beams and a good reputation for its food. Tonight is a pay as you go event so you order what you would like then just pay for your food, drinks and service charge. Our Spice host for the evening will meet you in the bar and help with the introductions. This is a great way to meet other local members in the area.
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Sailing Round the Island Yacht Race
Thu 30th Jun 2016 - Sun 3rd Jul 2016 Shamrock Quay Marina or Haslar Marina Gosport 8.00pm Thursday Evening £532 Sharing (Deposit £50) Includes: 3 nights on board in sharing cabins, diesel, wet weather gear, life harnesses, Breakfasts, lunches, tea and coffee Extras: evening meals and marina charges The Round the Island Race is THE event of the year for South Coast sailors and attracts big-name international competitors. The 1700 boats competing are a mix of family sailors and top racers. The boats range from small day boats to round-the world racing yachts and make for a spectacular sight. It is the biggest yacht race in the world and the fourth biggest sporting event in the UK. Some take it very seriously, others just enjoy taking part. EnCompass Sailing fits somewhere in the middle we usually do very well in our class.
The Corrs Live at Epsom Downs Race Night
Date: Thursday 30th June 2016 Place: Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom, Surrey (KT18 5LQ) Full Details will be emailed 5:30pm Cost: £45 Includes: entrance to Grandstand area, booking fee, live music from The Corrs after the racing and Spice host. The racing will start at approximately 6.00p.m. We will be there before this so you can arrive earlier or later. We will give you full meet details/mobile contact prior to the event so you can liaise with our Spice Host. The Jockey Club Live presents ‘An Evening At The Races’ with THE CORRS who are set to play at Epsom Downs Racecourse to round off a great 4evening of racing. Since releasing their album ‘Forgiven, Not forgotten’ in 1996 the Corrs have gone on to sell over 30 million albums worldwide. Known for hits including ‘Runaway’ and ‘Breathless’ the band took a 10 year break but returned last year to a rapturous welcome with their album ‘White Light’. The Corrs, will take to the stage shortly after the last race, at approximately 9pm. Tickets are already selling fast and the evening is expected to sell out very quickly. Why not book yourself a ticket and treat yourself to a great evening out. Spice has tickets for the Grandstand enclosure so we have an excellent view of the racing and the stage.
Just made it into the newsletter – A night at the theatre th
Theatre – Guys and Dolls
Date: Wednesday 29 June 2016 Place: Phoenix Theatre, Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0JP at entrance by Spice Sign 7pm Cost: £44.50 Includes: Stalls seat discounted ticket, booking fee and Spice Host. This highly-acclaimed and "exhilarating" (The Guardian) production of GUYS AND DOLLS is being hailed as "the greatest golden-age musical of the all" (Times). With a cast and orchestra of over 40, the sizzling New York tale of gamblers, gangsters and nightclub singers will leave you "walking on air" (Daily Telegraph) with a glorious evening featuring some of Broadway’s greatest show-stopping tunes, including Luck be a Lady, Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat and My Time of Day. Please note we cannot refund on tickets unless we are able to re-sell the ticket for you.
Theatre – Breakfast at Tiffany’s
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Date: Tuesday 5 July 2016 Place: Theatre Royal, Haymarket, London SW1Y 4HHT, at entrance look for Spice sign Cost: £54.50 Includes: Stalls seat discounted ticket, booking fee and Spice Host. Pixie Lott stars in BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S based on the novel by Truman Capote. BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S, the classic tale of Holly Golightly written by Truman Capote and so memorably portrayed by Audrey Hepburn in the iconic 1961 film, is being given a new lease of life as a stage play with music in a sparkling, sophisticated production starring the multi award-winning Pixie Lott as Holly. This tale of vivacious, good-time girl Holly Golightly and her fantastical existence in 1940s New York City, is told through the eyes of a young writer, completely fascinated by this exquisite extrovert who every woman wants to be, and every man wants to be with. Please note we cannot refund on tickets unless we are able to re-sell the ticket for you.
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Theatre – Funny Girl staring Sheridan Smith
Date: Wednesday 13 July 2016 Place: Savoy Theatre, Strand, London WC2R 0ET, at entrance look for Spice sign Cost: £75 stalls band A, £59 stalls band B Includes: ticket, booking fee and Spice Host. Funny Girl, starring multi award-winning stage and screen star Sheridan Smith, transfers to the Savoy Theatre following its sold out run at the Menier Chocolate Factory. A musical classic, Funny Girl tells the fascinating bitter-sweet story of Fanny Brice (Smith), whose vocal talents and comedic ability see her rise from Brooklyn music hall singer to Broadway star, and her tempestuous relationship with gambler NickyArnstein. Featuring some of the most iconic songs in film and theatre history, including “People” and “Don't Rain On My Parade.” Please note we cannot refund on tickets unless we are able to re-sell the ticket for you.
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Theatre – The Bodyguard
Date: Wednesday 20 July 2016 Place: Dominion Theatre, 268 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7AQ, at entrance look for Spice sign Cost: £44.50 Includes: ticket, booking fee and Spice Host. THE BODYGUARD, returns to the West End for 2016. Based on the smash-hit film which starred Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, starring BEVERLEY KNIGHT as Rachel Marron. Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge - what they don't expect is to fall in love.. Please note we cannot refund on tickets unless we are able to re-sell the ticket for you.
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Rustic Bunkhouse and BBQ Weekend - Chilterns
Fri 1st Jul 2016 - Sun 3rd Jul 2016 YHA Jordans, Welders Lane, Jordans, Beaconsfield, Bucks (HP9 2SN) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Check out is 12 noon £69 (Deposit £10) includes: exclusive hire of bunkhouse for Spice, 2 breakfasts with hot items included and 1 evening BBQ supper and Spice host throughout Extras: drinks & other meals over the weekend We have another one of our popular southern bunkhouses weekends and we have exclusive use of a rustic wooden cabin in the Chiltern Countryside. Located in the heart of a village this wooden cabin is set in two acres of woodland with a lovely garden and all the attractions of the nearby towns and pubs. The plan for the weekend will be to meet on the Friday evening, and we will either cook ourselves some supper or head to a local pub. On Saturday morning your breakfast is provided and will include a selection of items with a few hot options such as bacon and sausage butties, cereals, yoghurts, fruits and tea/coffee. Then we will head out for the day. Sunday is a chill out morning with an option for a stroll before checking out of the hostel at 12 noon and heading for home.
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Walking Weekend Lake District Watershed Ultimate Challenge Part 1
Fri 1st Jul 2016 - Sun 3rd Jul 2016 Shap Wells Hotel, North East Lakes, Cumbria (CA10 3QU) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £185 Twin Share, £225 Single (Deposit £40 Twin Share, £45 Single) includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 evening meals, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 days of guided walks Extras: Taxi to the start of the walk on Saturday Walkwise Overview: This beast of a challenge is for experienced and fit walkers only. Maybe don’t even think about it unless you have done one before. The walk itself will take a minimum of 9 hours at a good pace and is over 16 miles long with around 4,500 ft ascent, most people would split that into two days walking. The Watershed itself demarks the rivers that flow to the north of the Lake District and those that drain southwards so during this walk we will in effect be traversing the very spine of the Far Eastern Fells. The stunning topography encompasses everything the Lakes can throw at us in terms of steepness, crags, grassland, moorland and bogginess in the cols too. This event very definitely requires us to cover all that terrain and some is both pathless and rough too! However, the reward is scenery that is simply breath-taking.
National Dragon Boat Camping (Friday Night and / or Saturday Night)
Date: Fri 8th Jul 2016 & or Sat 9th Jul 2016 Place: Pershore Rugby Club, Mill Lane (WR10 2JF) At Campsite from 5pm, Cost: £9 per night Many members make a real weekend out of Dragon Boating by staying up at Pershore either in the local B&B’s or at our specially arranged campsite.
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National Dragon Boat Party
Saturday 9th July 2016 Pershore Working men’s Club, High St (WR10 1EU) Arrive for 8.00pm. Cost: £12 Includes: hot buffet supper, DJ entertainment and venue hire There is always a great atmosphere on Saturday night with a DJ & bar why not make a weekend at our Spice exclusive party.
National Dragon Boat Racing
“East Midlands won last year, who will be the UK Champions of 2016?”
Date: Sunday 10th July 2016 Place: Pershore, Worcestershire (WR10 1AF) 9.15am (safety briefing, 9.30am start. Cost £29 “No Spicer should miss a Dragon Boat Day. It really sums up what Spice is all about – fun, friendship, excitement & the chance to try an activity that anyone can enjoy!” Up to twenty people sitting side by side in a forty foot long boat, with a carved dragon's head and tail attached. A drummer in the prow beating time, a steerer in the stern keeping the boat on course with a giant paddle, the crew, ten each side speeding the boat down the river to the finish line! The atmosphere is brilliant, which is why this is one of the essential events in the Spice calendar! This is The Big One! A huge national Spice event organised for Spice by a great group of specialists. As it’s the Official Spice UK National Finals, all groups will be sending a team to compete. We have our own trophies and medals to go for, and the races will be run on a timed basis over the day. Don't worry if you've never been in a Dragon Boat before, we'll have plenty of time to practice before the racing begins in earnest (and as this is Spice, it’s all just for fun anyway!). It's great fun and totally unlike any other kind of canoeing with team work being the key, not strength.
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Bristol Harbour Music Festival Weekend
Fri 15th Jul 2016 - Sun 17th Jul 2016 Thistle Grand Hotel, Broad Street, Bristol (BS1 6HY) Arrive from 4.00pm £179 Twin Share, £255 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share£45 Single) Includes: 2 nights hotel accommodation with Breakfast, 3 course evening meal on Saturday, Bristol Harbour Festival & Spice Host throughout the weekend Extras: Lunches, Friday evening Meal The Harbour Festival gives Bristol the opportunity to showcase its rich musical and performance roots. Over 250,000 festival fans head down to the historic waterfront to party, listen to the numerous bands and live acts, eat, drink and dance. It is a fantastic weekend. The programme is massive and is held over three days across a two mile stretch of the city from Brunel’s SS Great Britain to M Shed, and from Queen Square to the city’s leafy Castle Park. Visitors will be entertained by a vibrant mix of live performance, artists, musicians, dancers, circus acts, markets and street stalls. On the water, hundreds of sailing vessels, from historic ships and boats to pleasure yachts and harbour ferries will provide a colourful backdrop to Bristol’s annual celebration of its maritime heritage. For more information and a suggested weekend Itinerary see our web site.
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Walking Weekend Newton Abbot and the South Devon Coast
Fri 22nd Jul 2016 - Sun 24th Jul 2016 The Passage House Hotel & Leisure Club, Kingsteignton, (TQ12 3QH) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £179 Twin Share, £219 single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £40 single) includes: 2 night's hotel accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals and 2 days of guided walking Extras: Transport to walk starts Walkwise Overview: The stunningly rugged and beautiful South Devon coastline is some of England’s finest and this alone is more than enough reason to visit. Hidden along the coast are secluded sandy bays, rocky headlands, quaint fishing hamlets, towering cliffs all lapped by the inviting Mediterranean blue waters. We will visit picturesque villages, enjoy the hospitality of the inviting cafes and country inns. Add to this the lovely Passage House hotel with its irresistible riverside setting, leisure club and pool, and a traditional country inn right next door, and we are in for a superb weekend away… Oh and it’s just at the end of the M5 and has good rail links so it’s easy to get there too!
Walking Weekend Summer in the Lakes, Eskdale
Date: Fri 22nd Jul 2016 - Sun 24th Jul 2016 Place: The Bower House Inn, Eskdale, Cumbria (CA19 1TD) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 7.00p.m. Cost: £179 Twin share, £219 Single, £229 Sole Occupancy (Deposit £35 Twin share, £40 Single, £40 Sole) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 evening meals, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches and 2 days of guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used Walkwise Overview: Yes! Back by popular request here is a return visit to one of the most stunning valleys in the Lake District, if not the Country! We have negotiated the use of The Bower House Inn as our new venue in Eskdale so we can now return to explore this unspoilt region of the Lakes. The Bower House Inn has a delightful setting half way up the valley overlooking Muncaster Fell. A traditional country inn, it will host all the accommodation and dining for the group and you won’t be disappointed as the chef has an excellent reputation for food and walking is second to none! So whether you enjoy the big high mountains or the gorgeous peaceful valleys of the Lake District then this should be one for your diary. Oh Eskdale is truly magnificent in summer, when the woodlands and hillside are in full bloom! But remember book early because it’s a small country pub and when the accommodation is gone it’s gone!
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Walking Weekend Llandrindod, Elan Valley and Red Kite Country
Fri 29th Jul 2016 - Sun 31st Jul 2016 The Metropole Hotel, (4 star), Llandrindod Wells, Wales (LD1 5DY) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Meal at 8.00p.m. £179 Twin Share, £219 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £40 Single) includes: 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 evening meals & choice of 2 guided walks Extras: Transport to walk starts if used WalkWise Overview: We have secured a tasty summer date to return to the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells which will hopefully coincide with some lovely summery weather and allow us to experience it at its very best. The Elan Valley and Red Kite Country is one of our favourite areas and continues to demand repeat visits. The quieter hills of mid Wales, locally known as the forgotten Welsh Lake District are beautiful; with high heather moorlands and wooded valley providing a home to some of Britain’s rarest wildlife, from goshawk, to hen harrier, black grouse and the stunning Red Kites. The area is beautiful with deep carved valleys are interspersed with ancient woodlands, peaceful reservoirs and friendly villages with inviting pubs. By contrast just a few miles to the east the countryside changes with lush valleys and the rolling Aberedw hills; guaranteeing interesting scenery and varied walking. For this trip we will be based in the four star Metropole Hotel in the historic Victorian Spa town of Llandrindod Wells.
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Ascot Races Live Concert and Windsor Weekend - 2 Nights
Fri 5th Aug 2016 - Sun 7th Aug 2016 Coppid Beech Hotel, John Nike Way, Binfield, Berkshire (RG12 8TF) Arrive from 3.00p.m. £145 Twin Share, £185 Single (Deposit £30 Twin Share, £40 Single) includes: 2 nights Luxury Hotel Accommodation, Welcome Drink, 2 Full English breakfasts, Queen Anne Enclosure ticket to Ascot Dubai Shergar cup and Live Concert, Transfer to Ascot from hotel (return), Use of leisure facilities parking day at Windsor on Sunday and services of Spice Host throughout. Extras: Friday evening meal, food and drinks at the race day. This is an exciting social weekend incorporating two classic days out. On the Saturday we have a day at Ascot Races followed by a concert on the Old Paddock Lawns and on the Sunday a day out in Windsor. We stay at the lovely Alpine style Coppid Beach Hotel which is ideally located in Royal Berkshire so Ascot and Windsor are close by The itinerary for the weekend is: Arrive on Friday anytime from 3.00p.m. We will meet for a Welcome drink in the hotel bar and we will book a table in Rowans Restaurant in the hotel so that we can have some supper. Saturday Enjoy a full English breakfast at the hotel before we leave for Ascot (transfer to and from Ascot included in our price). This is Britain’s only Jockeys’ competition where top jockeys in four teams; Great Britain and Ireland, Europe, the Rest of the World and an all girl's team, battle against each other in a thrilling six-race showdown for the coveted trophy. After the racing we will make our way to the Old Paddock for the live concert which is 80’s and 90’s icons. After our day at the races we will be picked up and transferred back to our hotel. On Sunday we head to nearby Windsor for a day of discovery, starting with a short walk around the town and into Great Windsor Park. Windsor is a lovely town in its own right and there are lovely shops, the river and of course the castle is always worth a visit. There is also an option to attend the race and concert only on the Saturday, the two groups will meet at Ascot, please see our web site for this option.
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Bristol Balloon Fiesta Weekend
Fri 12th Aug 2016 - Sun 14th Aug 2016 Thistle Bristol Hotel, Broad Street, Bristol (BS1 2EL) Arrive from 4.00pm £189 Twin Share, £255 Single (Deposit £35 Twin Share, £50 Single) includes: 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts, 1 Course lunch on Saturday, International Balloon Fiesta, City Docks Packet Boat Cruise & Spice Host throughout the weekend. Extras: Evening meals, drinks Optional lunch on Sunday th This year, Bristol will play host to Europe’s largest ballooning event for the 37 time. In this amazing spectacle over 150 hot air balloons will take off from Ashton Court Estate at dawn and light up the skies at night with evening glows. It’s something everyone has to see at least once in a lifetime! The event features colourful hot-air balloon displays, attracting over half a million visitors to the scenic grounds of Ashton Court. Balloons of all shapes and sizes lift off over the City of Bristol as well as taking part in various ballooning competitions including who can reach the furthest point in a set time or landing challenges. There is also entertainment for everyone on the ground with fairground rides, delicious food stalls, a craft fair, dance stage, arena entertainment, the world famous Red Arrows and a local talent music bandstand.
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Summer Bunkhouse Weekend with Beaches and BBQ
Fri 19th Aug 2016 - Sun 21st Aug 2016 Bova House, Swansea, Wales (SA3 1NN) Arrive from 4.00p.m. Check out 12 noon £89 Sharing (Deposit £10) Includes: 2 nights’ accommodation in sharing rooms in hostel exclusively hired for a Spice weekend, 2 breakfasts, 1 BBQ meal, guided walk and Spice host throughout Extras: Drinks and some meals Join us on this fabulous fun bunkhouse weekend. As The Gower bunkhouse is situated next to the sand dunes and beach this is a perfect place for a Spice weekend away. Come and enjoy the fresh air, the beach, walking, watersports and BBQ on our cheap and cheerful weekend. We have exclusive use of the Gower Bunkhouse at Borfa House in the village of Port Eynon which offers comfortable shared accommodation with a private garden. This is a fun, muck in and help type of weekend so you are expected to help with the cooking and clearing up after the meals. Meet on the Friday evening, and we will either cook ourselves some supper or head to the local pub which is close by. On Saturday morning your breakfast is provided. Then we will head out for a walk on the beach and to explore the local area. Saturday night we have included a 2 course BBQ supper at the hostel so we can relax in the garden over a drink and two. Sunday: Breakfast is provided and then you are free to explore, head for the beach before we have to check out of the hostel at 12 noon.
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Narrow Boat Weekend - Wiltshire
Fri 2nd Sep 2016 - Mon 5th Sep 2016 Hilperton Marina, Trowbridge, Wiltshire (BA14 8RS) Arrive between 2.30 and 4.30p.m. £189 (Deposit £40) includes: inclusive hire of a narrowboat for Spice for the weekend for 3 nights 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches and Spice host throughout the weekend Extras: Drinks & some pub meals It’s a great life afloat, and this time we are heading to Hilperton Marina for another one of our favourite weekends on a narrowboat. This weekend will see us travelling the waterways from our starting point in Hilperton Marina, which is superbly situated on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Trowbridge in Wiltshire (a short distance from the M4). We will probably head to the historic town of Bradford on Avon, and then probably on to Bath, crossing over the impressive Avoncliffe and Dunda viaducts. This is a great way of spending a lazy, long weekend away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We just drift along at a leisurely pace enjoying the county side and socialising along the way.
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Isle of Wight Bunkhouse Weekend
Fri 9th Sep 2016 - Sun 11th Sep 2016 YHA Totland Bay, Hurst Hill, Totland Bay, Isle of Wight (PO39 0HD) Arrive from 4.00p.m. check out 12 noon £69 Sharing (Deposit £10) includes: 2 nights’ accommodation in sharing rooms in hostel exclusively hired 2 breakfasts, 1 evening meal, guided walk & Spice host throughout Extras: Drinks - bring you’re own and some meals and any activities, ferry crossings We are off to the Isle of Wight for one of our popular bunkhouse weekends. YHA Totland located on the island enjoys a seaside location close to down land cliffs and beaches so ideal for walking and cycling. An added bonus for this weekend is the cycling festival so you can take your bike and join in the fun. It is aimed at all levels, the routes are all made up and easy to follow or you can just spectate. We have exclusive use of a large Edwardian house in its own grounds.
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Spice 35th Anniversary National Ball
Saturday 1st October 2016 4 star Queens Hotel, City Square, Leeds (LS1 1PJ) 7pm £79 Early Bird Ticket (Deposit £20) includes: Ball ticket, welcome drink reception, 3 course evening meal, ½ bottle of wine, live act on the night, disco plus some extra surprises Extras: Additional drinks. Hotel accommodation to be booked separately Spice has a big National Anniversary Ball every 5 years and the chances are you have heard our 25th and 30th Anniversary Balls were both events that have gone down in Spice history and are still talked about today! Now Spice UK is proud to present the Spice 35th Anniversary National Ball! This will be a truly fabulous night with loads of fun surprises and a great celebration of all that Spice represents. The venue is the 4* Queens Hotel which was purpose built as accommodation for rail travellers and it couldn’t be better located right in the heart of the city with its own entrance straight off Leeds Central. Note the price is for the Ball only. You will want to make a weekend of it please see our web site for accommodation details.
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Guy Fawkes Bunkhouse Weekend - Littlehampton, West Sussex
Fri 4th Nov 2016 - Sun 6th Nov 2016 YHA Littlehampton, West Sussex (BN17 5AW) Arrive from 4.00p.m. £75 sharing (Deposit £10) includes: exclusive hire of hostel for our use, 2 nights sharing accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 1 evening supper on Saturday night, guided walk and Spice host throughout We are returning to the lovely bunkhouse in Littlehampton which is right by the sea, beach and town centre. Our hostel overlooks the harbour from the entrance and offers a high standard of comfort. The hostel is part of a redevelopment of Fisherman’s Wharf on the east bank of the River Arun. Set in a traditional seaside resort with many pubs with walking distance and they usually have some live bands playing. The plan for the weekend goes like this: Meet on the Friday evening, and we will either have some takeaway food or head to a local pub. On Saturday morning your breakfast is provided. Then we will head out for a walk on the beach and to explore the local area. This will be guided and be 5/6 miles. Saturday night we have included a 2 course meal which we will eat at the hostel then we will head out to the pubs which are only a few minutes’ walk from the hostel. As it is Guy Fawkes weekend there might also be a local firework display. Sunday is a chill out morning with an option for a stroll before checking out of the farmhouse at 12 noon and heading for home.
Spice Rack - National Groups SPICE (West Midlands)
SPICE (London)
SPICE (Thames Valley & Solent)
Co-ordinator: Richard Coulter Suite 1, Ryknild House Burnett Road Sutton Coldfield West Midlands, B74 3EL Tel: 0121 353 6161 info@spicebham.com www.spicebham.com
Co-ordinator: Dianne Livingstone 330 High Holborn London, WC1V 7QT Tel: 01276 479253 dianne@spicelondon.co.uk www.spicelondon.co.uk
Co-ordinator: Dominic Renshaw 118, Shiplake Bottom, Peppard Common, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 5HR Tel: 0118 972 4810 dominic@thamesvalleyspice.co.uk www.thamesvalleyspice.co.uk
SPICE (Manchester)
SPICE (Bristol & Cardiff) Co-ordinator: Dianne Livingstone 130 Aztec, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4UB Tel: 0742 959 8414 / 01276 479253 dianne@spicebristolcardiff.com www.spicebristolcardiff.com
Co-ordinator: Lauren Fawkes 11 Poplar Road Stretford, Manchester, M32 9AN Tel: 0161 864 3849 info@spicemcr.com www.spicemcr.com
SPICE (Scotland) Co-ordinator: Jamie Morris 63 Easter Langside Crescent Dalkeith, EH22 2FN Tel: 0131 531 2653 info@spicescotland.com www.spicescotland.com
SPICE (East Midlands) Co-ordinator: Steve Dell Foxhall Business Centre, 2 King Street, Nottingham, NG1 2AS Tel: 01827 767150 office@spiceeastmids.com www.spiceeastmids.com
SPICE (Yorkshire) Co-ordinator: Lauren Fawkes 11 Poplar Road Stretford, Manchester, M32 9AN Tel: 0161 864 2554 info@spiceyorks.com www.spiceyorks.com
SPICE UK General Manger: Ian Purves 13 Thorpe Street Old Trafford Manchester, M16 9PR Tel: 0161 873 8788 info@spiceuk.com www.spiceuk.com
Spice UK emergency 24 hour telephone 07778 298497 Please be advised this telephone number is strictly for use in the case of serious accidents & emergencies only and is NOT for general use (booking, enquiries, directions etc.) thank you!
General Information Office Hours 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Monday to Friday. Please call us on 01276 479253 if you have any questions about an event. There is a 24 hour answer phone. For emergencies only try the mobile 07702 046730 as it is checked regularly out of hours for messages. How to Join Spice Online at www.spicelondon.co.uk or by phone 01276 479253 Booking Events We encourage members to book online at www.spicelondon.co.uk or by phone 01276 479253 Please see our Web-Site for our full terms & conditions of booking. Bookings are only secure when payment has been received. Credit Notes Please remember to quote the number when booking & please use any credit issued when you joined within 3 months.
Confirmation of Bookings Booking confirmations are sent out via email. Where further information is required i.e. directions this will be sent out prior. Full joining instructions are sent out for all weekend events. If You Can’t Make It To An Event or are going to be late Please ring the Spice Office or the event co-coordinator if you realise that you cannot make an event so that other members are not left waiting for you to arrive and if it is a ‘team’ type events such as sports evenings we can make the necessary arrangements. Also you maybe entitled to a refund, see the Cancellation Policy for full details. Guests Guests are welcome on almost all Spice events. Guests are asked to pay a slightly higher fee and are allowed to attend 2 events, after that time we expect them to become members. This to ensure the value of membership for our members.
Late Bookings
Transport Share
Please go on the wait list, slots do sometimes become available at the last minute due to cancellations and sometimes we are able to secure extra places please call the office check availability. Never just turn up at an event as we may not be able to accommodate you.
If you indicate when booking that you require a lift or are willing to offer or share transport then we are always happy to do our best to link up members for travel share. Please ring the office about 7 days prior and we will be able to give you telephone numbers of possible links.
Event Info All event information and descriptions are correct at the time of going to print, errors and omissions and exceptional circumstances excepted. Prices in this newsletter are for Spice members booking events, guests are charged a higher fee (please see our web site for guest prices). Photographs Please be aware photos may be taken from any Spice groups nationwide or other sources and are for illustration only and do not represent any specific event advertised in this newsletter. Please be aware photographs may be used in any Spice promotional material, let us know if you do not wish them to be used.
Cancellation Policy Please see our full cancellation policy at our Web-Site. If we cancel an event you will receive a full refund on the event price only. If you need to cancel an event please let us know as soon as you can we may be able to re-sell you place otherwise there will be a cancellation fee as we pay many of our suppliers in full and ‘up-front’. Sorry we cannot refund you if you fail to turn-up.
Spice UK Holidays 2016 Spice - Goes Exploring the World
Spicy - Adrenaline & Excitement
Andalucia Highlights (7 nights) 2ⁿ� to 9�� July, from £799
Mark Warner 5* Watersports - Rhodes 11�� to 18�� June, (7 nights) from £850 11�� to 25�� June, (14 nights) from £1290 18�� to 25�� June, (7 nights) from £850
Iceland Discovery (7 nights) 6�� to 10�� November from £699 India: Bollywood, Places & Beaches (14 nights) 8�� to 22ⁿ� November, from £1999 Lapland Adventure & Northern Lights (7 nights) 4�� to 11�� December from £883
La Santa Sports Holidays (7 nights) 13�� to 20�� October from £529 For more information or to book your holidays go on-line to www.spiceuk.com or phone the Spice UK office on 0161 873 8788 or e-mail info@spiceuk.com.
Spice - Chills Out Cyprus Spring Chillout (7 nights) 1�� to 8�� May, from £649 Amazing Algarve 5* Chillout (7 nights) 5�� to 11�� June, from £619 Croatia Chillout (7 nights) 20�� to 27�� September, from £699 Costa Blanca Chillout (7 nights) 25�� September to 2ⁿ� October from £639
Spice 35th Anniversary National Ball Spice started 35 years ago in Manchester, think of all those 1000’s of events and friendships made! To celebrate we are having an amazing anniversary ball, at the 4 star Queens hotel in Leeds Saturday 1�� October Ball only £79. 1 night accommodation £138 (twin share) 2 nights accommodation £243 (twin share)
Lake Garda Autumn Chillout (5 nights) 9�� to 14�� October from £549 Thailand Chllout & River Kwai (14 nights) 9�� to 22ⁿ� October, from £1699
Key Spice holidays partners For many years Spice has enjoyed an excellent Club Dance are delighted to be working with Spice to relationship with our travel partner Exodus Holidays promote our dance holidays whether it is salsa, Ceroc, – the UK’s leading adventure travel company. ballroom or tango Club Dance covers it all – UK weekends or 7 or 14 night breaks. 5% discount for independent direct bookings with exodus! 5% discount with Club Dance Holidays! We know however that sometimes our scheduled group departures won’t always fit in with everyone’s personal travel needs. We also know that often members would like to visit some of the places we are not featuring in the group holiday programme. To book your independent holiday with Exodus and claim your Spice member discount call 0845 863 9606. To qualify for the Spice Discount, simply advise them you are a Spice Member AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Please note: This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount.
Club Free Sprit have taken 23,000 customers to various destinations over the years from Cuba, Miami, Jamaica to Calpe, Spain, Austria and Malta and have increased their portfolio of activities from dance to fitness, ski and golf. In order to qualify for the Spice Discount, simply call reservation number on 0207 099 4816 and let them know you are a Spice Member AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Please note: This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount.