IT’S AN ILL WIND... HOSPITAL PARKING CHARGES SET TO RISE
SUPPORT OUR INDIES WHY IT’S VITAL TO BACK OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
CARNIVAL TIME
FLOATS AND PARADES TO TAKE TO OUR STREETS
FESTIVAL FEVER
ENJOY CLASSICAL AND JAZZ MUSIC FESTIVALS
GAME ON! NEW CAFE AND GAMES ROOM OPENS ITS DOORS
05-14 y Briefing
Lib Dems take over county council and Ware Christmas lights update
22-31 y What’s on
From street carnivals to exhibitions, we preview your month ahead
15-21 y Shopping & business news
Show your support for our great independent local businesses
32-35 y Food & drink
New games café The Live Room brings something new to Hoddesdon
13 & 14 y FROM PARLIAMENT: Our MPs write exclusive columns for you
26 y JAZZ IT UP: Find out more about the first Hertford Jazz Festival
Axis magazine was founded in 2003 by two award-winning former local newspaper editors who still own and run the business today.
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The cost of parking at Harlow’s Princess Alexandra Hospital is rising significantly this month with a new pricing structure being introduced from Sunday 1st June.
The Princess Alexandra Hospital Trust says the changes follow a review of the current tariffs which have been in place since 2020, and are aimed at helping manage demand for spaces as well as ensuring there is a contribution to the costs of maintaining the car parks.
The previous pricing structure worked on the principle of an initial free period of 20 minutes (calculated from the time that you enter the hospital site) with charges for four, six and 24-hour blocks.
The new structure, which the trust says is aligned with other acute hospitals in the region including Lister and Addenbrookes, retains the first 20-minute free period and then introduces hourly increments of up to one, two, three, four, five and six hours; followed by blocks of 7-12 hours and 12-24 hours.
Under the new system, the cost for an hour’s parking is £3.50, compared with a motorist having paid
£2.90 for up to four hours before. The cost of parking for four hours under the new tariffs is £8. Other charges are £5 for two hours (no current rate), £7 for three hours (no current rate), £9 for five hours (no current rate), £10 for six hours (current rate £4), £12 for 7-12 hours (no current rate) and £15 for 12-24 hours (current rate £6 for 24 hours).
Tom Burton, the hospital’s chief finance and infrastructure officer,
said: “We hope that visitors understand the reason for introducing the new tariff structures, which are designed to help manage demand and ensure we can meet the rising costs of maintaining the car parks. We expect car parking charges to generate upwards of £0.5m annually, to meet the running costs of our car parks which currently exceed any income that we generate.
“Free parking arrangements remain in place for registered Blue Badge
holders, parents/guardians who need to stay overnight with young people in our care; for patients that need to attend for appointments or treatments on a regular basis, and other exemptions.”
Find out more
Full details on the parking tariffs and exemptions/concessions that apply can be found on the ‘Getting Here’ section of the hospital website, pah.nhs.uk.
Households in East Herts can expect to start receiving their new waste and recycling bins from this month, ahead of changes to collections set to come into effect from August.
Veolia UK took over as the new waste, recycling and street cleansing contractor for East and North Herts councils in May and will be responsible for implementing the new collection scheme, which is designed to meet the Government’s ‘Simpler Recycling’ requirements that call for the separate collection and recycling of food waste and
cardboard and paper, as well as the recycling of soft plastics. East Herts residents will receive a purple-lidded bin for nonrecyclable (currently black bin) waste, an outdoor food waste caddy and a kitchen caddy – with deliveries starting in June. They will be delivered with instructions not to use them until the service starts after Monday 4th August.
The new system will also involve repurposing some of the existing bins. With the new purple-lidded bin becoming the non-recyclable waste bin, the existing black-lid-
ded bin will be used for mixed recycling (including plastic bags and wrapping). The blue-lidded bin will be for cardboard and paper.
The collection schedule will also change with some residents having changes to their collection day. Three bins – non-recyclable waste, mixed recycling, and cardboard and paper – will be collected on a three-weekly alternating basis.
Food waste collections will take place every week. And garden waste collections will continue fortnightly for subscribers.
Hertfordshire County Council is now being run by a minority Liberal Democrat administration after local elections in May saw the Conservatives lose control of the county they have run for the past 26 years.
The new-look council will be led by Lib Dem group leader Cllr Steve Jarvis, who immediately pledged to get to work.
He said: “I am honoured and excited to be elected as leader of Hertfordshire County Council. This is the start of a new era for this council and our county. With my cabinet colleagues and council officers, I will ensure that we are on our residents’ side and focusing on the issues that really matter.
“We have much to do. From improving our roads and environment to doing better for children with special educational needs whilst achieving best value for money, I am determined to make Hertfordshire a better place today and fit for the future.”
He pledged a 10-point plan for priorities within 100 days and announced the first two main priorities as trialling a new approach
to mending potholes in roads and setting up a SEND Summit to inform plans for dealing with special educational needs.
The county council provides services to some 1.2million people across Hertfordshire. Its responsibilities include education, social care, highways, libraries, recycling and waste and fire and rescue services.
Before the election on Thursday 1st May, the Conservatives held 42 seats, the Liberal Democrats 22, Labour 6, Independents 5, the Greens 1, Reform 1, and there was one vacant seat, which gave the Conservatives a majority.
After the count, the Liberal Democrats were the largest single party with 31 seats. The Conservatives won 22 seats, Reform took 14, Labour 5, the Greens 5 and there was one Independent elected. With no group winning outright, the Liberal Democrats were nine seats short of the 40 they would need to have a majority, though a quick defection from Labour got them one closer. However, they decided to proceed with a minority administration rather than seek a
Broxbourne Council has a new leader after Conservative Mark Mills-Bishop resigned from the post.
Mr Mills-Bishop had taken over as Broxbourne leader a year ago, beginning a second stint in the role, but chose to stand down, saying: “When I took up the role of leader, none of us expected the Government’s decision to implement local government reform and devolution, which has led to a significant amount of work for all involved.” He also aimed a broadside at national Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch.
Describing the party’s local election results across the country as “woeful”, Mr Mills-Bishop said the Conservatives were “poorly-led” and said Ms Badenoch was “clearly
not up to the task” of leading the party and should resign.
Following Mr Mills-Bishop’s decision to stand down, fellow Conservative Corina Gander was elected as leader of the council at its annual meeting on Tuesday 13th May, becoming only the second woman to hold the role. She vowed to “navigate the borough’s way through local government reform to secure the best possible outcome for the residents and businesses in Broxbourne”. Cllr Steve Wortley was re-elected as deputy leader.
Mr Mills-Bishop’s decision came shortly after his narrow defeat by just 28 votes to a Reform UK candidate in the separate Hertfordshire County Council election last month.
formal coalition with any other parties. This means they will need to gain support from other councillors on a measure-by-measure basis to get their plans through.
Winners and losers
Among the most notable election results were Mark Mills-Bishop, the leader of Broxbourne Council, losing his Flamstead End and Turnford seat to Reform UK’s Tony Hill by just 28 votes. The leader of East Herts Council, the Greens’ Ben Crystall held his
Hertford All Saints seat while Rachel Carter, a councillor on Hertford Town Council, won the Hertford St Andrews seat from the Conservatives for the Greens.
In Ware North, the Greens’ Kirsty Taylor-Moran won the seat from the Conservatives while in Ware South the Greens’ Steve Watson did the same.
The Liberal Democrat leader of Bishop’s Stortford Town Council, Miriam Swainston, won Bishop’s Stortford West from the Conservatives.
Labour members quit town council
Two of the three Labour councillors representing Sele ward on Hertford Town Council have resigned.
Carolyn Redfern and Mark Livermore have announced they are standing down, creating two vacancies on the town council.
The ward continues to be represented by Graham Nickson.
Cllr Redfern, who is also a member of East Herts Council, said she was remaining in that role but had decided to step down from the town council for “purely personal and family reasons”.
The town council is run by The Green Party who have 10 of the 16 seats.
There are now two Conservatives, one Labour, one Independent and two vacant seats.
East Herts Council says that it is not in a position to fund the £1.6million of repair works that a survey suggests could be needed on Bishop’s Stortford’s Water Lane United Reformed Church Hall. And it is inviting stakeholders and local community groups who might have ideas or proposals for the building to get in touch.
The hall, a venue for local theatre, comedy and community groups, was bought from the church by the then Conservative-led council in 2019.
With a new arts centre complete with 500-seat theatre and cinema planned as the centrepiece of the Old River Lane development on the nearby Causeway car park, the hall was to be demolished to re-provide parking spaces for Waitrose that were set to be lost under the plans. In the interim, the hall has been leased back to the church in an agreement that is due to end this year.
But budgetary pressures meant the council was forced to scale back its arts centre plans, sparking widespread concern that if the hall was demolished the town would, ironically, end up with less arts provision than it had started with. In 2021 it was proposed that a five screen cinema with some flexible spaces could be an alternative to the original theatre-led scheme. By 2023 further cost inflation led the new Green and Liberal Democrat administration to pause the arts centre element until a future date when it has the funding to progress it.
Instead, the council wants to retain that part of the site as a public square while its development partner Cityheart progresses plans for the rest of the site.
In the meantime, the hall was taken
out of the development area with the council setting aside £170,000 for essential maintenance. That figure has since been dwarfed by the findings of the full structural survey, commissioned from AECOM earlier this year and received at the end of April.
The council said it had long been aware of the building’s challenges, particularly as it had been acquired for demolition and had not received any investment in recent years. But it said it needed a clear picture of the cost implications of maintaining it once its lease with URC runs out.
It said the 200-page report made for “depressing reading”, highlighting issues including subsidence that would require underpinning, the need for pitched roof coverings to be replaced while flat roof areas are also approaching the end of their lifespan.
External masonry walls show signs of deterioration and internally the building fabric is old and worn. In order to meet the anticipated government requirements for EPC
ratings on privately leased spaces, significant upgrades to the fabric of the building, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems are required.
East Herts Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Mione Goldspink, said: “Given the council’s current financial constraints, we’re not in a position to commit the significant funding needed to restore Water Lane Hall. However, we fully recognise the building’s historic character and the affection in which it is held by many in our community.
“That’s why we are committed to exploring every option and listening to those who care about its future.
“We are eager to hear from local stakeholders or community groups who may have ideas or proposals for the building.”
Interested parties should contact Director of Regeneration, Customer and Commercial Services Ben Wood by email at benjamin.wood@eastherts.gov.uk.
The full report is available at the council’s reception in Navigation House, Riverside, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3AS. A summary can be read online at eastherts.gov.uk.
Meanwhile, East Herts Council says it expects to be in a position to announce dates and venues for a public consultation on plans for the wider Old River Lane scheme soon. Originally anticipated to take place in May, the consultation, which is
now expected to be held in mid-June, will lay out the council and its development partner Cityheart’s latest plans for a mixed use development of homes and shops on the former Causeway car park and Charringtons House
McDonald’s drive-thru changes are approved
Proposals from McDonald’s which could ease some of the congestion around its Rush Green drive-thru in Hertford were approved by East Herts Council in May.
The site reconfiguration will see two side by side ordering points installed along with a ‘fast forward lane’ and additional collection booth to be used by drivers if their order is delayed.
The customer entrance is also being relocated from the north east to south east of the building. It is hoped that the changes, along with the creation in due course of an additional lane for queuing traffic for which permission was granted in 2022, will ease the problem of cars queuing on the roundabout, a busy intersection of the A10 and A414.
Flats plan for Salvation Army citadel in Ware
A planning application has been submitted to East Herts Council seeking permission to turn the Salvation Army citadel in Ware’s Baldock Street into four flats.
The building, formerly used by the charity as a community church and social centre, suffered dwindling attendance numbers and closed in 2019.
site in the centre of town close to Waitrose.
A spokesperson for the council said details of the consultation should be available from around 11th June with interested parties advised to visit eastherts.gov.uk/orl.
The application seeks a change of use for the distinctive building and the addition of a second floor extension to create one studio, two two-bedroom and one one-bedroom flats.
You can find the application on East Herts Council’s planning portal at eastherts.gov.uk, application reference 3/25/0339/FUL.
STEVENAGE • 01438 316623
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BUNTINGFORD • 01763 274111
WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018
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WARE • 01920 468551
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Across East Herts, a variety of markets take place every we ek - but some, like the Hertford Farmers Market, are special monthly events. Held on the second Saturday of each month, this market is a great opportunity to explore the best of local produce.
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Residents in Ware would like future Christmas lighting displays to reflect the character of the historic town, the results of a consultation held by the town council in March reveal.
The town has traditionally been lit for the festive season with time honoured coloured lanterns, strung along the length of the high street giving it a unique and recognisable charm.
But at the end of 2023 a seasonal lighting survey by the licensing authority identified compliance issues with the lanterns and how they are installed on buildings. And despite attempts to find ways to repair, replace or replicate the lights with modern equivalents, a solution that met legislative requirements couldn’t be found.
Ware Town Council had to find alternatives for Christmas 2024, and at the consultation meetings many expressed their appreciation at the effort that had gone into decorating the town quickly and creating a festive atmosphere.
In particular, the limited re-use of lanterns at the Priory and Tudor Square, lighting around Keith Ian estate agents and in East and West Streets, the use of warm lighting around rooftops and trees, and a competition that had encouraged shopkeepers to light up their windows were all praised.
But while some loved them, the introduction of more illuminated bears similar to ‘Ware Bear’, placed in recent years outside Boots, along with other ‘hired-in’ features,
particularly in Amwell End, were generally not appreciated.
Ware Bears ‘divided opinion’
A report detailing the findings of the consultation, which was discussed by Ware Town Council at the end of April said: “The Ware Bears divided opinion. Some loved them, but many felt there were too many, they looked random, and didn’t reflect Ware’s heritage. A common view was: ‘One is enough – keep it outside Boots’.”
Residents generally expressed a desire for a more cohesive, town-specific display, with a return to a more traditional or Dickensian style
preferred and features reflecting the town’s heritage – swans, coaching inns, barges and maltings being mentioned.
Councillors decided to retain two of three pre-booked bear features for 2025, to fit lanterns in East and West Street, extend the Christmas Shop Window promotion to include categories for both offices and shops and add icicle-style lighting similar to that outside Keith Ian to another building.
In the meantime, taking on board the feedback from residents, work will now begin on exploring a more cohesive scheme for Christmas 2026 onwards.
Newly refurbished toilets in the grounds of Ware Priory opened in May, offering modern and accessible facilities for visitors to the Priory, Priory Park and the wider town centre.
A new fresh water fountain has also been installed on the outside of the building, handy for users of the adjacent play park and skate park.
Ware Town Council officially opened the facility on Monday 12th May. It was paid for by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the town council.
Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with an arson investigation in Hertford.
The fire service and police were called to a large fire in the grounds of County Hall in Pegs Lane, at around 7pm on Tuesday 13th May. Smoke could be seen for miles around and a building was destroyed in the blaze.
Two boys, aged 16 and 14, have been arrested on suspicion of arson not endangering life, and released on conditional bail while investigations continue.
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YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR BROXBOURNE WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH
Despite my best efforts, this Government is actively taking away protections for the green belt and nature
Over the last few weeks, eagle-eyed observers may have noticed that I’ve not been able to visit quite as many places in our area as usual or speak in as many parliamentary debates as usual. But don’t worry, I’ve not suddenly taken my foot off the pedal – instead I’ve been spending time taking part in one of Parliament’s slightly less wellknown activities.
Since the end of April, I’ve spent around two full days a week in a Public Bill Committee for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, cooped up in a room with a handful of other MPs, Government ministers and subject experts. Together, we have been scrutinising the Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill line by line, as well as suggesting and voting on hundreds of amendments to it.
I have written in this magazine before about my opposition to this Bill, with the Government forcing top-down housing targets to go up in areas like ours, while taking away the ability for local residents to have a say.
Although I continue to strongly oppose this Bill, I have been attempting to work cross-bench and make improvements to it. Along with colleagues on the Bill Committee, I have put forward and supported a number of amendments to mitigate some of the worst impacts of this Bill. These amendments would have
protected chalk streams and made sure that development would not take place on green belt land unless there is no practicable option for development in existing urban areas. Unfortunately, the Government, as well as other opposition parties, voted these down.
After spending years promising the world on environmental protections to voters, it has been very disappointing to see the Government actively taking away protections put in place for the green belt and key natural features like chalk streams. I will continue to take opportunities like this to challenge the Government on these measures and look for ways to protect our area from damaging urban sprawl and make sure we have the right infrastructure.
Speaking of infrastructure, I know how frustrating some of the recent roadworks in our area have been. I was held up getting to a surgery by the multiple roadworks on the A1170 and am all too aware that other parts of the constituency are facing similar issues. I have repeatedly raised this issue in Parliament and with the utility companies and have co-sponsored a Bill that would increase fines for works that overrun.
Since my last column in this mag-
azine, I have also had a great time attending VE Day and St George’s Day celebrations in our area. It was good to see the lighting of the VE Day Beacon at the VE Day event at Grundy Park, which was lit at the same time as 1,000 other
I continue to hold regular in-person surgeries to discuss issues and concerns with constituents. If you have a problem you’d like to raise with me, please contact my office at lewis.cocking.mp@parliament.uk or on 01992 845335. In addition, if you own a business or are involved in a local organisation and you would like me to come and visit, then please let me know!
ones at locations across the UK. I was also impressed by Hoddesdon Library’s display, which showcased books and articles about VE Day, including many about the celebrations that took place in Hoddesdon at the time!
YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD WRITES FOR AXIS MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH
VE Day 80 celebrations remind us of the sacrifice of generations past and the importance of peace today
I was deeply proud to see our community come together to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for peace in Europe as we marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe last month. It was a privilege to attend commemorations across Hertford and Stortford – including the public celebration and beacon lighting at Hertford Castle, the Mayor’s lunch in Sawbridgeworth and the Royal British Legion service in Bishop’s Stortford – as our community’s Member of Parliament. These events reminded us not only of the sacrifices made by the great generation who brought peace to Europe, but also of the ongoing importance of peace, community and remembrance today.
In May, we also marked Mental Health Awareness Week. I was pleased by the Government’s announcement that one million more young people will access specialist mental health support in schools this year as part of our national rollout.
My politics has been shaped by the issue of young people’s mental health. I know they are at the sharp end of the crisis – waiting months, even years, for their first CAMHS appointment – and I regularly hear from parents and school leaders worried about the mental wellbeing
of young people.
Money worries can also significantly impact young adults’ mental health. It was a pleasure to speak at Money Super Market and Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)’s Parliamentary reception, highlighting their Money Talks report and the support available in our community. I’ll continue to speak up on these issues in Parliament. Anyone in our community with concerns about mental health provision can contact me at
josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk.
I was proud to lead my first Parliamentary debate last month on the unique challenges young people in semi-rural areas face in accessing educational opportunities.
I’ve now visited nearly half of the 50 schools in our constituency, heard from young people across Hertford and Stortford, held roundtable discussions with secondary
Saturday 14th June: Bishop’s Stortford
Friday 27th June: Hertford
Please email josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk with your name, address including postcode and as much detail about your case as possible
school headteachers and have more planned with primary school leaders.
I raised their concerns directly with the minister – including public transport and connectivity, SEND provision, and the erosion of external support services.
We have a wealth of talent in our community. I’ll continue working constructively with the Government to build an education system that meets our specific challenges and enables our young people to thrive.
As an independent local business ourself, Axis has been at the forefront of championing our fellow indies ever since we first launched 22 years ago, back in 2003. Our high streets are changing, with a move away from traditional retail to more service-based businesses, many of which are helping to breathe new life into what would otherwise be empty shops.
Here in the area covered by Axis, we are fortunate to retain a good number of independents, which give our towns a unique local identity. And we have reported on many new openings recently, including a traditional butchers in Hoddesdon, a small cheese shop in Hertford, a florist in Ware and a new clothing boutique in Bishop’s Stortford. There are more exciting businesses opening soon that we will tell
‘It
is vital that we support our high street as much as possible, particularly the independents. We all strive to bring individuality, quality and great customer service so please keep shopping local!’
Louise Rideout Frankie and Olive, Hertford
you about in the coming months too – all of which will be keeping the indie flag flying!
This month, we are including a special feature to promote independents, with a wide variety of businesses taking part and explaining why they are worthy of your support.
We also have pages from both our local BIDs (Business Improvement Districts) in Hoddesdon and Bishop’s Stortford which tell us more about their role in improving their local areas.
Supporting local businesses injects more money into the local economy. When you spend locally more money stays within the community. Independent business owners will often live locally, spend their profits with other businesses and venues and use other local suppliers.
Successful local businesses bring variety to an area. Who wants their local town centre to be an identikit one, indistinguishable from any other apart from its architecture and road layout?
Local businesses create local jobs and make the area a better place to live and work. As well as providing full and part-time jobs many will offer work experience to our children. In sponsoring local events and initiatives they also give back to the local community.
Doing business locally helps the environment. By shopping locally you are helping the bigger fight against global warming – plus it’s both more convenient and far nicer to walk to your local shop than sit in a traffic jam heading to an out-of-town shopping centre.
Independent retailers are knowledgeable and passionate about what they sell, offering product knowledge and excellent customer service that the chains often can’t compete with. Many also offer loyalty schemes to their customers (think of that very welcome 10th coffee for free offer!).
Small local businesses source unique products. With both local and national suppliers, small businesses are more likely to offer one-off and different products.
CHRIS STIGWOOD 07814 096789 chrisstigwood@hotmail.com
Love Hoddesdon BID (Business Improvement District) aims to support and improve our town centre so that local businesses can thrive, and provide an environment that local people can enjoy visiting time and again.
The BID was established in 2018 and comes up for re-election every five years to continue to operate. At the end of 2022, the BID was successfully re-elected and began a second five-year term in January 2023. We are a not-for-profit company that represents more than 200 businesses based in the town centre and we also offer an Associate Membership option for businesses without ‘bricks-and-mortar’ premises and those based outside the BID boundary, but which wish to support the work and aims of Love Hoddesdon. We work closely with Brox-
bourne Council to continually improve our town.
The public face of the BID is the popular event schedule that Love Hoddesdon organises, again often working alongside the council.
This year’s remaining events are detailed below.
Some of the major contributions the BID makes to the town centre include the funding of CCTV cameras to keep everybody safe and deter crime, plus additional floral displays and Christmas lights to make the town welcoming and attractive. We fund free training courses for businesses, free networking events and produce a monthly email newsletter keeping everyone up to date. BID businesses and members also benefit from free promotion on our website and social media channels.
So far this year the BID has worked alongside Broxbourne Council to organise the Spring Fayre and Heritage Day on Saturday 12th April, which was a huge success, attracting 4,500 people into the town centre, with live entertainment, stalls, children’s funfair rides, heritage walks and free heritage bus tours.
Other events scheduled this year include:
Sunday 22nd June: Windrush Celebration – celebrate our diverse local community;
Sunday 6th July: Vintage Car Show in association with Broxbourne Council – step back in time and look over some amazing vehicles;
Sunday 17th August: Rock Around the Clock Tower brought to you by The Hod-
desdon All Stars in association with Love Hoddesdon – a fabulous live music event;
Saturday 13th September: Love Hoddesdon Food & Drink Festival – come and relax with street food stalls, music, drinks and treats for all the family;
Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th October: Charter Fair celebration – all the fun of the
fair for the whole family;
Sunday 30th November: Hoddesdon Loves Christmas in association with Broxbourne Council. Our biggest event of the year featuring live entertainment on stage, the famous Father Christmas Parade, shopping stalls and fireworks (all weather permitting). We look forward to seeing you in Hoddesdon!
Local businesses prepare to make the most of a day that brings the whole community together
Parade, Fun Day and more!
Saturday 21st June is Carnival Day in Bishop’s Stortford –a day when the town comes alive with colour, music and the unmistakable hum of community spirit.
This year’s theme is Summer Solstice – think a celebration of the seasons, nature, sun and flowers!
Carnival Day is a highlight in the town’s calendar. It is brought to life each year by Bishop’s Stortford Town Council, and consists of the parade through the town centre, starting at South Mill Arts at 11.15am, and the Fun Day on Sworders Field between 12 noon and 5pm. For full details, visit bishopsstortfordtc.gov.uk.
This year, for the first time, the Bishop’s Stortford Business Improvement District (BID) is sponsoring the event – bringing extra resources, ideas and energy to help the town council make 2025’s carnival extra special for the community and its businesses. So, why not come early, stay late and experience everything the town centre has to offer?
What to expect
In addition to the main event, this year visitors can expect bunting, open doors and smiling faces in the town centre from as early as 9am.
Courtesy of the BID, visitors can enjoy free face painting with
Aga’s Fantasy Faces at Florence Walk, as well as characters with carnival-themed giveaways in the town centre provided by Enchanted Parties and various street entertainers.
Businesses across all sectors are getting involved too. Keep an eye on Facebook/Instagram (@discoverstortford) for offers and promotions for Carnival Day and beyond, ranging from themed breakfasts before the parade to shopping and service offers, as well as evening entertainment and dining options for after the Fun Day.
Free parking
And the cherry on the cake? The BID has been working with East Herts District Council, who have agreed to free all-day parking in Northgate End car park for the day.
So, whether you’re a lifelong resident or have recently moved to the area, Carnival Day is your invitation to connect – to the town, to the community and to the businesses. We look forward to seeing you there!
Keep up to date
Visit discoverstortford.co.uk or follow us on Instagram/Facebook @discoverstortford.
Any questions?
Email BID Managers
mads@bishopsstortfordbid.co.uk
karen@bishopsstortfordbid.co.uk
Landseer Picture Framing in Ware can frame all your treasured memorabilia from sports shirts, medals, badges, rosettes, programmes and tickets etc to artwork, prints, photos, canvases and cross stitches. They also stock a selection of framed prints and many readymade standard size photo frames and mounts, together with a selection of unique gifts including unusual sculptures, some of which are by local artists.
27b Baldock Street, Ware SG12 9DH 01920 486522 landseerpictureframes.co.uk
Frankie and Olive is a boutique specialising in sustainable clothing and gifts for women, babies and preschoolers. They are known for their carefully selected ranges reflecting individuality, quality and timeless style at reasonable prices. They pride themselves on honest customer service without pressure, providing an enjoyable and stress-free shopping experience. Regulars love to pop in for a chat and a try-on, and browsers are always welcome.
19 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RE 01992 677150 frankieandolive.co.uk
Crates of Wool is a warm and welcoming yarn shop in the heart of Ware, filled with beautiful yarns – from soft natural fibres and locally dyed wools to classic acrylics and cosy baby yarns. You’ll also find everything you need to go along with them! They offer workshops in knitting and crochet for seasoned crafters and beginners, as well as drop-in sessions if you just fancy a cuppa and a chat while working on your latest project. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4:30pm, they also offer a mail order service.
8a East Street, Ware SG12 9HJ 01920 463436 cratesofwool.co.uk
Hoddesdon Tile and Bathroom Centre is a family-run business that has been serving both retail and trade customers for more than 30 years. It has a wide selection of tiles along with all the accessories you might need, and a revamped and updated bathroom showroom showcasing a wide range of baths, showers, basins, toilets, taps and more. It is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm and there is free parking on-site as well.
Unit 3c Geddings Road, Hoddesdon EN11 0NT 01992 470146 hoddesdontileandbathroom.com
The well-established Hertfordshire Fireplace Gallery opened its doors almost 25 years ago and continues to help customers with their fireplace requirements. They have the largest selection of fires and fireplaces in Hertfordshire and surrounding areas, and offer free surveys and free local delivery. Installation by qualified Gas Safe and HETAS engineers is also available. So whether you would like a traditional limestone, marble or timber surround or the latest contemporary hole in the wall fires, call in today!
9 Barnet Road, Potters Bar EN6 2QX 01707 657070 | hertsfireplacegallery.co.uk
From its showroom in the centre of Hertford, Classic Mobility sells, hires and services all mobility equipment. This family-run local business has been established for more than 20 years and provides friendly, knowledgeable help if you need any kind of mobility assistance – whether that be wheelchairs, adjustable beds, rise/recline chairs, mobility scooters or bed and bath hoists – on either a permanent or temporary basis. It also undertakes maintenance and servicing.
15 Church Street, Hertford SG14 1EJ 01992 552224
classicmobility.org.uk
Telling your stories through jewellery is at the heart of what the independent Hertford jeweller Chapter79 is all about.
Qualified goldsmith Jackie Benson and her husband Andy have been running their business for 19 years and their name perfectly encapsulates what they are all about (‘chapter’ representing their ethos and 79 being the atomic number of gold). At Chapter79, you can choose pieces from their collections, which are available in the shop, or talk to Jackie and Andy about having your own bespoke jewellery made.
When thinking about buying jewellery, it is easy to have your eye taken by what sparkles and glistens the brightest, but the team at Chapter79 remind us to never forget the sentiment behind a piece. Their extensive knowledge and expertise makes shopping for jewellery less daunting, and their ultimate aim is
Blend Wellness is a boutique café and wellness studio offering a pathway to wellbeing and is based in the centre of Ware. Through a combination of yoga classes and healthy food, Blend Wellness promotes a balanced lifestyle that fits seamlessly into your busy routine. Yoga classes are held at different times of day and can easily be booked online, individually or as part of a membership scheme. The café maintains a ‘food as medicine’ mentality, with speciality coffee and health-conscious organic food options in a relaxed but chic atmosphere. 12 Amwell End, Ware SG12 9HW blendwellness.co.uk
to make everyone feel genuinely excited about their jewellery.
The engagement and wedding ring sector is a speciality of theirs, and they offer many different ways to involve clients in the process of designing and making their rings.
Seeing a design you have thought up come to life through computer-aided design, or even viewing diamonds and gemstones before they are set into your jewellery, are both possible. Originality is at the heart of what Chapter79 do, with unique collections selected from sleek and modern European suppliers, as well as popular brands such as ChloBo and Hot Diamonds.
15 Market Place, Hertford SG14 1DQ 01992 534555 chapter79.co.uk
Fashion Flooring & Interiors in Bishop’s Stortford offers everything you need to style your home. Its first shop in High Street has a huge range of carpets, hard flooring, luxury vinyl tiles and rugs on the ground floor, whilst on the first floor you will find fabrics galore for curtains, cushions and upholstery, plus wallpapers, lighting and accessories. Its second shop in Potter Street features a wide range of lighting and accessories.
1-3 High Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LS
8 Potter Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UL 01279 651514 / 01279 507744
fashionflooringandinteriors.co.uk
Cannon Travel offers a wealth of knowledge, expertise and advice to help you find the right holiday. Formed in 1991 and based in Hoddesdon, Cannon Travel has considerable experience and all holidays booked through Cannon are ATOL protected and/or ABTA bonded. Whatever you are looking for, you can book it with Cannon, including dream holidays, exotic tours, luxury cruises, city breaks and coach holidays. You will always get fantastic independent advice and benefit from invaluable expertise.
96 High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8HD 01992 441521
cannontravel.co.uk
If you are looking to undertake a home renovation this summer, be it a kitchen, bathroom or windows and doors, then look no further.
Dobsons, a local independent family business, established in 1935, and celebrating their 90th anniversary this year, take pride in getting to know their clients and designing outstanding and practical rooms to suit their individual needs. They believe in putting their customers at the heart of everything they do and that’s why, as part of the premium service they offer, they take control of your entire project and co-ordinate every aspect, taking the stress and hassle away from you.
Stunning showroom
Their stunning Cheshunt showroom houses bespoke Stoneham kitchen furniture in large room sets, showcasing the
latest trends alongside premium brand appliances, such as Neff and Miele, whilst their Villeroy and Boch bathroom studio displays the finest in luxury bathing and showering. High quality windows and doors in both aluminium and UPVC are also on show.
Dobsons’ designers will always go the extra mile to create your dream room, by redesigning your existing layout to maximise functionality, taking down walls to create a larger area or perhaps creating a new room where there wasn’t previously one. Whatever your need, their experts provide the know-how to make it happen.
Book an appointment
Why not book an appointment to visit Dobsons’ showroom for ideas and inspiration, and to talk to their experienced team about your project? For more details visit dobsonshome.com.
JOIN US EVERY SATURDAY EVENING IN JUNE! 6:30pm – 9:30pm Tickets from £16 | Under 2’s FREE Indian Street Food Summer Drinks
Stilt Walkers Bubbleologist Face Painting
S UMMER EVENINGS A T
Henna Artist Indian Drummers and Dancers
Secure your tickets now and prepare to make roaring memories that will last a lifetime!
Saturday
Summer Solstice is the appropriate theme of this year’s Bishop’s Stortford Carnival, celebrating the longest day of the year on Saturday 21st June. The event is organised by Bishop’s Stortford Town Council and supported this year by Bishop’s Stortford BID, which is seeking to ensure local businesses get involved and benefit from the town’s biggest annual day out. The day begins with a traditional carnival parade which leaves South Mill Arts in South Road at 11.15am and processes through South Street, Potter Street, North Street and Northgate End, finishing on Link Road at around 12.15pm, with people encouraged to line the streets to watch the parade pass by. Then the attention switches to the carnival fun day on Sworders Field which begins at 12noon and runs to 5pm, with craft and gift stalls, food and drink, a fun fair and two performance arenas, offering entertainment for everyone.
Performers include local talent, with musicians, singers and
People are encouraged to line the streets of Bishop’s Stortford to welcome the carnival parade for which the theme this year is Summer Solstice
dancers all featuring.
The Carnival Cruise is an extra attraction, with an array of working and pleasure boats moored in the town and a prize for the
best decorated boat. You can view them along the River Stort between the register office (CM23 2DL) and Station Road. bishopsstortfordtc.gov.uk
Saturday
Advance notice that Ware Festival takes place in July, with the month-long celebration kicking off at the beginning of the month with the return of the River Festival on Friday 4th July and Ware Carnival on Saturday 5th. The Lea & Stort Branch of the IWA hosts the River Festival, which was cancelled at the last minute last year due to health and safety issues along the towpath. This year Ware welcomes back a variety of colourful boats which will parade along the river from 12.45pm on Saturday 5th. The theme of this year’s carnival is Colour Rush, so the brightest of parades is promised through Amwell End, High Street, Baldock Street and Park Road from 1.25pm. The Town Fair then takes place in Ware Priory grounds during the afternoon. waretowncouncil.gov.uk
This summer, Tewinbury Farm Hotel, between Hertford and Welwyn, is launching Farm Yard in the Field, a series of four summer festival dates with live music and street food, all with a family-friendly farm festival vibe and set against the stunning backdrop of Tewin Water. The new series features top tribute acts, DJs and great local talent along with street food served from horsebox stalls, craft drinks from the Baa Bar, straw bales to lounge on and fire pits to chat around.
The first two events are in June. On Saturday 7th Oasis tribute Definitely Could Be headline with 90s Spice also performing, while Saturday 28th features Arctic Monkeys tribute Mardy Bums and Twist of Abba.
Other dates are Saturday 19th July and Saturday 16th August. Tickets are £25 for adults, £12.50 for children aged 2-12, free for under-2s. Dogs welcome, gates open 3pm, live music from 4pm, close at 11pm. Tickets can be booked online. tewinbury.co.uk
Join forager and wild food innovator George Fredenham, better known as Flavour Fred, for what will be a far-from-average walk in the woods at Hertford’s Panshanger Park on Friday 27th June from 11.30am.
The two and a half hour foraging walk promises to open your eyes to the culinary treasures growing all around us.
It’s ideal for food lovers, nature enthusiasts and anyone curious about how to live – and eat –more closely with the land.
George is a well-known expert in wild food, preservation, distilling and culinary creativity and has appeared on the BBC’s Countryfile and Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped programmes, as well as in The Times newspaper.
During the walk at Panshanger he will demonstrate how to identify seasonal wild ingredients as
well as how to avoid dangerous confusion with lookalikes.
He’ll share some of the folklore and stories behind plants, discuss the importance of soil health and ecological balance, share preservation techniques and tips for using wild flavours at home and, importantly, explain the rules of
foraging in public spaces. Of course, there will also be a few wild-inspired nibbles along the way!
Places, at £35 per person, can be booked via Eventbrite (eventbrite.co.uk and search Flavour-Led Foraging Walk with Flavour Fred).
Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust is calling on everyone to soak up the joy of the natural world throughout June and boost their health and wellbeing in the process.
The group is taking part in the nationwide Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild campaign which includes a set of weekly themes, as
well as a number of events.
The first week of June, for example has been designated Herts Rivers Week, which features events you can get involved in centred around our local chalk streams.
For full details of all the month’s themes and events visit hertswildlifetrust.org.uk.
Will You Still Love Me? is circus like you’ve never seen before at Ware Drill Hall on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June. This brave new work from Generation Circus, who featured in Axis earlier this year, and Can Do Circus Company features a cast of performers aged from 52 to 77, proving that creativity doesn’t retire – it evolves.
The show is a fusion of aerial and ground-based circus, movement, film and storytelling exploring themes of love, identity and ageing with humour and charm. It’s at 6pm on Saturday, 1pm on Sunday and tickets are just £5. generationcircus.co.uk
Hertford Family Pride Day offers a celebration of inclusion and diversity
Hertford Family Pride Day is back for a second year, at Hertford Castle on Saturday 14th June from 12noon to 4pm. The event is free and aims to bring all the community together, to have fun and celebrate inclusion and diversity in Hertford. Its message is a simple one: “Be kind, be yourself and all are welcome”. The main lawn of the castle will host children’s activities, face painting, a stilt walker, an Express Yourself area with karaoke, support and information stalls, local charities and food and drink vendors. Hertford Castle will also be open to explore. Performers include rapper and storyteller Nate Watson, who has worked with Ed Sheeran and grime legend D Double E, and Alpha Dancers, an inclusive ‘dance family’. hertford.gov.uk
Windrush Weekender coming to town centres
The Windrush Weekender comes to Waltham Cross and Hoddesdon town centres on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd June respectively, promising two days filled with Caribbean and African music, song and dance performances on stage, children’s activities, arts and crafts and food stalls. In Waltham Cross on Saturday the fun runs from 12noon to 8pm and in Hoddesdon on Sunday it starts at 11am and finishes at 7.30pm. broxbourne.gov.uk
The first Hertford Jazz Festival will showcase an eclectic mix of world-class jazz artists, emerging talent and local favourites, offering something for every jazz lover, running over five weeks from Thursday 12th June until Wednesday 16th July. Hosted in theatres, churches, hotels and pubs, festival highlights include Martin Taylor, Voodoo Brass Band and Away From Home at BEAM, Hertford’s newly refurbished theatre and cinema; quartets and quintets including Charlie Pyne, Dave Keech and Sam Chaplin at Hertford House Hotel; Russ Williams back at The Old Barge on Folly Island; and new on the scene bands Raw Odoni and Pocket Silver at the historic Friends Meeting House. The festival will also include jazz jams at the Hertford Club in Bull Plain where players and singers of all abilities and experience levels are welcome to step up and
play with the house band. Organiser Chris Dixon hosts the monthly jazz jam at the Hertford Club and said: “We’re excited to be bringing great jazz performers to Hertford. It’s a celebration of the town’s vibrant musical spirit – its creativity, its people and its love of music.”
For more information, the full line-up and tickets visit hertfordjazz.org.
It’s a
Noise starring Fisher Stevens A Tribute to Neil Diamond Friday 13 June, 7.30pm
The Jive Aces
The UK’s No.1 Jive & Swing band Sunday 15 June, 7.30pm
Totally Tina Come Shake your tail feather! Friday 20 June, 7.30pm
Soul Kinda Wonderful classic Soul & Motown Party Night
Featuring Richie Sampson formerly in The Drifters! Friday 27 June, 7.30pm
Discover incredible days out! Save when you make a group booking for White Water Rafting, kayaking, SUP or Water Wipeout - but hurry, as this is available for a limited time only. Book today at gowhitewater.co.uk at Lee Valley White Water Centre
*Full terms can be found at better.org.uk/offer-terms SAVE UP TO 20%
This year’s Hertfordshire Festival of Music takes place from Saturday 7th to Saturday 14th June at venues in and around Hertford. The theme is From Shadows to Light: Musical Journeys in Conflict and Peace, and explores how music serves as a medium to document personal and collective struggles, while also illuminating paths towards renewal. The programme includes a special concert to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, with the world premiere of a new work entitled From Shadows Hopes Will Rise, a piece specially written for the occasion by composer and festival artistic director James Francis Brown, alongside other popular works linked to the wartime era.
Highlights include Brompton String Quartet performing music by Beethoven and Haydn at the Friends Meeting House in Hertford – a building Haydn almost
certainly visited during his stay in Hertingfordbury in 1791. There will also be an evening of 1940s jazz; a special festival church service; an illustrated talk on war artist Paul Nash alongside an original composition inspired by his work; and a Soundbites recital by Sarah-Jane Bradley. The festival will culminate in a chamber orchestra concert featuring Benjamin Britten’s Serenade
The Gallery at Parndon Mill in Harlow is currently hosting a new exhibition called Body and Soul 2, which runs until Sunday 22nd June, and features sculptures by John Farnham and paintings by Lotte Farnham. John Farnham worked as assistant to Henry Moore until
Moore’s death in 1986. He works mostly in stone and marble, taking his inspiration from human and animal forms. Lotte Farnham is a painter and printmaker using mainly acrylics and inks. The gallery is in Parndon Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2HP. parndonmillgallery.co.uk
for Tenor, Horn and Strings, performed by young tenor Guy Elliott and horn player Chloe Harrison, highlighting the festival’s commitment to nurturing future artists.
The festival is supported by Longmores Solicitors, Azets, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertford Town Council and East Herts Council. hertsmusicfest.org.uk
Canvas 25 is a charity art event at Courtyard Arts in Hertford. Artists were invited to purchase a blank 25 x 25cm canvas to create a piece of art for the exhibition, which runs from Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 14th June. All canvasses are for sale at £40 each, with proceeds used to support Courtyard’s Artreach programme. Then from Tuesday 17th June until Saturday 5th July, Courtyard hosts a new exhibition called 12 Artists: Deana and Friends. A visual feast, it brings together a collective of 12 artists working across a rich spectrum of mediums. Each artist has focused on the subjects they love and that matter to them.
The gallery is in Port Vale, Hertford SG14 3AA. courtyardarts.org.uk
Choral societies tune up for next concerts
Sunrise Mass on longest day Hertford Choral Society will perform Sunrise Mass by Ola Gjeilo on Saturday 21st June at All Saints’ Hertford, at 5pm, alongside fellow contemporary composer Katy Lavinia Cooper’s Twelve Trees. Tickets are £20, £15 unreserved, £5 students, by email to: tickets@hertfordchoral. org.uk. For more details visit hertfordchoral.org.uk.
Concert on carnival day Ware Choral Society’s next concert takes place on the day of Ware Carnival – Saturday 5th July. It’s at Ware Drill Hall in Amwell End at 7.30pm and features Brahms’ Song of Destiny and Mendelssohn’s Song of Praise. Also performing are Orpheus Sinfonia and two sopranos who have both sung with the society before, Erin Alexander and Natasha Page.
Tickets can be booked at warechoral.org.uk.
The Salt Path (12A)
Now showing
Based on the best-selling book and a true story, this remarkable film follows a couple who lost their home and their livelihood just as husband Moth Winn is diagnosed with a terminal illness. With nothing left, he and wife Raynor decide to embark upon a year-long walk along the South West Coast Path. Starring Jason Isaacs and Gillian Anderson.
The Ballad of Wallis Island (12A)
Now showing Quirky and enjoyable comedy in which eccentric lottery winner Charles tries to make his dream come true by paying for his favourite musicians, a former folk duo, to come and perform live on his private island.
Ballerina (15)
Out on Friday 6th June
The fifth film in the John Wick
franchise follows a ballerina who trains as an assassin to exact revenge for her father’s death.
How To Train Your Dragon (PG)
Out on Monday 9th June
Live action remake of the 2010 adventure fantasy animated film of the same name in which a friendship between a Viking and a dragon becomes the key to the survival of both species.
This year marks the 550th anniversary of the birth of the iconic artist and to celebrate the life of this great mind of the Renaissance, Exhibition on Screen has released Michelangelo – Love and Death to cinemas.
Since 2009 the company has been bringing major art exhibitions along with intimate biographies of artists to cinema, television and home entertainment platforms worldwide. Recent releases have included Vermeer – The Greatest Exhibition in 2023 and Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers which in 2024 coincided with the National Gallery’s bicentenary exhibition of the same name. The spectacular sculptures and paintings of Michelangelo are
so well recognised – from his towering statue of David to the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel –but what do we really know about this Renaissance giant? Michelangelo – Love and Death takes viewers on a cinematic journey through the print and drawing rooms of Europe and the chapels and museums of Florence, Rome and The Vatican to seek out a fresh understanding of this legendary figure’s tempestuous life, his relationship with his contemporaries and his incredible legacy.
ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS CHURCH 5th & 6th JULY 2025 11am - 4pm STUNNING FLOWERS IN THIS BEAUTIFUL, HISTORIC CHURCH In the Village Hall there will be a sale of small paintings by renowned artist Trevor Chamberlain, extraordinary art by Juni Perloony, and, in the church, an exhibition of photography by Steve Baldwin, Teas, coffees and homemade cakes available throughout the weekend in the Village Hall. ON A119 JUST
• Fresh, seasonal locally sourced food, superbly cooked
• Family-friendly free house with a play area and garden
20 Green End, Braughing, Hertfordshire SG11 2PG Tel: 01920 823555 • www.goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk
The Golden Fleece - 92.5mm x 125mm Axis Summer Dining Advert May25_Final.indd 1 27/05/2025 15:23
Outdoor cinema nights
This August, join us for a magical season of open-air cinema at our historic house. From sing-along hits to feel-good classics and iconic rom-coms, we’ll be showing a brilliant mix of favourites on our giant outdoor screen. Bring a comfy chair or blanket and settle in with your own drinks and snacks - or treat yourself from our on-site selection before the film begins.
£20 per person, arrival from 7pm for a sunset showing
Summer afternoon tea
Got something to celebrate, or just fancy turning an ordinary day into something special? Afternoon tea at Fanhams Hall is the perfect excuse to indulge. Tuck into tiers of tasty treats in our charming Jacobean mansion, or sip your tea in the sunshine out on the terrace.
Available 12.30pm to 4pm
Monday to Friday - Adults £37.50, Children under 10 £20
Saturday and Sunday - Adults £42.50, Children under 10 £20
01920 460511
fanhamshall@exclusive.co.uk exclusive.co.uk/fanhams-hall
Fanhams Hall Road, Ware Hertfordshire SG12 7PZ
‘A moment to remember, an estate you’ll never forget’
May saw Heidi Brown achieve a long-term ambition to open her own healthy café, with the launch of Nourish, in Hertford’s Port Vale.
Occupying the ground floor of Vale House, the building home to the charity Future Living Hertford, Nourish offers, among other things, locally roasted coffee, healthy snacks and ‘grab and go’ breakfasts and lunches, including plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, that you can enjoy inside, in the courtyard garden, or to take away.
Menus are devised by Heidi, a chef of ten years whose event catering business Homemade by
Heidi is already well established locally and continues to run alongside the café.
She’s also well known in nearby Hoddesdon where, nine years ago, she ran a pop-up café
Heidi’s Kitchen in Fawkon Walk. Everything on offer at Nourish is home-made to Heidi’s own recipes – with nothing pre-made, and no processed foods or refined sugar used in dishes.
As well as pastries, Nourish offers breakfast pots that include blueberry and lemon overnight oats with chia seeds, or caramelised banana and date parfait with yoghurt and granola.
Lunch bowls have a base of
red cabbage,
chopped lettuce, edamame beans and sweet potato with a simple lemon dressing, and your choice of toppings which include lemon and ginger chicken with pineapple salsa, or homemade hummus and spiced roasted chickpeas.
Specials, including wraps, bagels and sausage rolls, are chalked up on the blackboards daily while ‘treats’ include Heidi’s healthy homemade equivalents to Bounty and Snickers bars that are free from refined sugar.
On the edge of the town centre, close to Courtyard Arts, Nourish has a relaxed community café
feel. Heidi lives locally and is solo mum to two primary school age children who have been proud to welcome their school friends to Nourish. Staff member Monica Sadler has crafted the macramé plant hangers that add style to the space while there are plans to display local artists’ work on the walls.
Nourish is open from Tuesday to Friday between 9am and 4pm and from 9am to 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Dogs are welcomed in the garden (as well as in the café while you place your order!).
Vale House is at 43 Cowbridge, Hertford SG14 1PN.
Slice City is a new pizza takeaway and delivery business that has opened in Honey Lane, off Maidenhead Street, in Hertford. It offers pizza by the slice starting from £2.70 as well as 9-inch and 12-inch pizzas from a wide-ranging menu – or you can choose your favourite toppings and create your own.
Owner Mahmut Arayan arrives in Hertford having opened and run a pizza and kebab franchise in Scotland for three years.
He says his focus at Slice City is on providing great pizza with quality ingredients at affordable prices, with 9-inch pizzas starting from just £7.
Slice City is on delivery app Uber Eats, with a minimum order value of just £5, or you can pop into the shop to order and take away from 12noon to 9pm seven days a week.
You will find Slice City at 4 Honey Lane, Hertford SG14 1DN and on Uber Eats.
The Live Room has brought a growing trend for café and games rooms venues to Hoddesdon. Newly opened, and based in the former HSBC bank building at 45 High Street, it has a café area at the front, leading through to a PS5 games or sport and entertainment TV room at the back.
The licensed café is open seven days a week from 9am to 4.30pm for coffee, breakfast, brunch or lunch – or even a cheeky cocktail or glass of wine.
The dedicated PS5 booths can be booked during the day at a cost of £5 per hour for a single controller or £8 for two controllers sharing one sofa. In addition, The Live Room features a digital interactive room offering an engaging experience for your children while you eat, drink and socialise.
The venue is also bookable for
events and parties between the hours of 5pm and 11pm. Coming soon are a series of events called Friday Night Live, which will include karaoke and belly dancing – keep an eye on theliveroomcafe.co.uk for details.
Nolaki is a high quality Turkish restaurant that has taken over the former Cock pub in Stansted Mountfitchet and transformed it into a stunning contemporary restaurant with an elegant interior and inventive dishes. Open seven days from 12noon until late, Nolaki offers lunch, dinner, fabulous wines and stunning cocktails. The restaurant is also available for private hire. From Monday to Friday 12-4pm it has a superb value two-course lunch menu for just £14.95 and a three-course lunch menu for £17.95. On Sunday, roasts are served from 12-5pm.
30 Silver Street, Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8HD 01279 812964
nolaki.co.uk
The award-winning Veyso’s has long been one of Hertford’s most talked-about restaurants. Its chefs use the finest ingredients and traditional skills to produce innovative signature dishes and desirable cocktails in a bold and stunning environment. Behind the doors of Veyso’s lies an interior as well crafted as the food, with hand-carved wall art, mother of pearl-embedded wall beams – and the iconic Veyso’s staircase that leads to the basement. Open 7 days a week, Veyso’s has a menu for every occasion, from a light lunch to a great celebration.
97-101 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AS 01992 550055 veysos.co.uk
Ruay Rôt means ‘rich in flavour’ in Thai and that is precisely what the food you can order for takeaway or delivery from Hertford’s newest eatery is. Just down the road from its previous and hugely popular Baan Thitiya restaurant, this new takeaway outlet offers authentic Thai food for you to enjoy at home, continuing Baan Thitiya’s story after 20 years in Hertford. You can order by phone or through the GoGetters and Deliveroo apps for delivery to Hertford, Ware and Hoddesdon. The menu includes many vegan specials. Outside tables are also available on warmer days.
6 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB 01992 587706
ruayrôt.co.uk
The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The team serve fresh and seasonal dishes, on both an à la carte and small plate menu, which can be enjoyed on the sun-drenched terrace over the summer months. Dart Club, located in the rear courtyard, is an interactive dart game that’s ideal for birthdays, team-building or just a friendly competition! The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event, such as an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary.
Cautherly Lane, Great Amwell SG12 9SW 01920 870039
info@georgeivpub.co.uk georgeivpub.co.uk
Italian & Turkish
Pircio is a family-run independent restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford that offers two different menus of Italian and Turkish cuisine. Both menus are cooked by teams of specialist chefs and diners can choose from pizza, pasta and other Italian classics or dishes such as halloumi, falafel, moussaka and lamb tagine. The historic Drill Hall building has been smartly refurbished and can seat 200 people downstairs whilst there is also a mezzanine for private dining. Pircio is open seven days a week, all day.
Drill Hall, Market Square
Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU 01279 898181
pirciorestaurant.com
No.14, in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is taking Asian Fusion dining and luxury to new heights in the town. No expense has been spared on the interior decor at this three-storey venue. An updated range of menus has been launched, with new à la carte, sushi and Sunday roast menus all available. On Tuesday, you can enjoy limitless sushi, and on Sunday both brunch and roasts are served. There is now also a DJ every Friday, Saturday and Sunday with live jazz every Thursday. Book the Chef’s Table for the best seats in the house.
14 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 597548 no-14.com
Meze Bar & Grill
Based in the former Old Star pub in Wormley, Broxbourne, Manto’s restaurant offers authentic Turkish cuisine with a modern twist, using only the finest ingredients for its dishes. Taking inspiration from the heritage of Turkey and ancient Mediterranean cooking techniques, Manto’s aims to celebrate regional flavours and give a true flavour of the Mediterranean. The restaurant is open seven days a week 12noon to midnight, offering lunch, food throughout the afternoon and dinner. The kitchen closes at 10pm.There is also free parking for customers.
32 High Road, Wormley EN10 6LE 01992 414301 mantosrestaurant.com
The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a modern twist. Set in the pretty village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub has been a favourite for over 15 years. The menu is updated bi-monthly, allowing for fresh, seasonal and delicious locally-sourced food, and a specials board also offers changing dishes. The Fleece has an exceptional reputation, with plenty of choice for diners with gluten or dairy allergies and vegans/vegetarians, allowing everyone to enjoy a visit. A large, secluded garden with play area is perfect on warmer days or enjoy log burners on cooler ones.
20 Green End, Braughing SG11 2PG 01920 823555 goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk
Roni’s, set in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is a fine dining restaurant where both the quality of food and the service combine to offer guests a memorable experience. Roni’s offers a wide range of traditional dishes, passionately crafted, including a vegan menu. There is a set lunch menu (Tuesday-Saturday) and a set evening menu (Tuesday-Thursday) while superb roasts are served on Sundays. You can also book the private dining room for your group or family. Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon, and closed on Monday.
16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856
ronisrestaurant.co.uk
Offers in excess of £1,350,000
A detached four double bedroom Queen Anne style property which has been lovingly re-modelled recently to create an outstanding family home. This home sits on a third of an acre providing a large garden with countryside views. There is a detached double garage currently used as a gym complex. A fabulous character property with modern features. Chain-free.
£1,050,000
A detached three bedroom property on one of the most sought after roads within Great Amwell. This property is well-presented though it would benefit from modernising and extending, subject to obtaining the relevant permissions. There is a large garage attached, ample off-street parking and the gardens are mature and well-stocked. Chain-free.
