aboutsuffolk magazine autumn22

about suffolk

Pickmeup and

welcome to our autumn issue of aboutsuffolk

about us

to our autumn issue of the aboutsuffolk magazine, a warming slice of Suffolk to signal the change of season, in which we bring you news of new ventures, spooky goings-on and festive supper clubs. You’d be ‘made up’ to win our fabulous competition on page 22 and make sure you roll up your sleeves and have a go at our flavoursome bread recipe on page 72.

In this issue we explore a delightful cottage that gets our stamp of approval, canvas opinions with abstract artist, Boo Compton, eat well at the Food Museum, put our feet up with Woolly Comforts, and sing the praises of Pop Chorus. You’ll also find cosy fashion ideas, stylish homewares, a guide to some of the best seasonal gifts around, and news of events, opportunities and what’s happening on the local pub scene.

contents

who’s about about style about you about interiors about town about time about the land about design about gardens about food about taste round & about

out & about

6 Top of the Pops

Taking notes with Yula Andrews, professional singer, and founder of Pop Chorus.

12 Out and about A round up of local events.

16 Fashion Fix

Wrapping up with autumnal essentials.

20 Booster seat

Little pick-me-ups to give you a boost this autumn.

22 Competition time Your chance to win a Makeover Day at dream on worth £140.

24 Post & packaging

The magical cottage of artist Sara MacIver, once the Wetheringsett village post office, gets our stamp of approval.

30 Get the look

Chic ideas for restyling your home.

34 about town

Breaking stories about new events, opportunities and destinations in Suffolk.

36 about time

We take time out in Framlingham and explore all it has to offer.

44 Take comfort

Taking stock on the family sheep farm with Jayne of Woolly Comforts.

50 Boo who?

We scratch beneath the surface with contemporary abstract artist, Boo Compton.

56 Seasonal gifts

We ring in the changes with a selection of seasonal gifts.

58 Pick ‘n’ Mix

Set aside space for a cutting garden and delight in bunches of freshly picked flowers next year.

64 Food for thought

We see what’s on the menu at the Food Museum in Stowmarket.

70 about taste Dining out in local style.

72 Butternut squash, sage and ricotta focaccia

Autumn is perfect for pottering in the kitchen creating flavoursome breads with seasonal ingredients.

74 Autumn Symphony

A wonderful seasonal walk from Southwold to Walberswick and back again.

79 Stockists Where to buy all the lovely stuff!

who’s about about style about you about interiors about town about time about the land about design about gardens about food about taste round & about

out & about

Top of the Pops

who’s about

Since 2012, Pop Chorus has grown from just eight eager beginners to a thriving and enthusiastic ensemble of eight choirs with nearly four hundred members. We catch up with founder, Yula Andrews, to discover why she is so passionate about spreading the joy of music, song and theatricality throughout Suffolk.

Classically trained, Yula has over 25 years’ singing experience, with a varied career that has seen her performing opera in Harrods to singing with professional ABBA tribute acts. She studied at the Dartington College of Arts for three years, fine-tuning her voice and exploring creative performance and storytelling, before falling into the music industry and deputising for an ABBA tribute band for four years. “Pulling on the kneehigh boots, the costumes and glitter and getting to sing with high level musicians and perform at venues like the NEC was

fabulous fun.” A fortuitous blind date in 2008 led to her marriage to John and a move to London. “I continued singing and was part of a band, but London was very competitive and getting gigs was hard work. I was feeling ready for a change so when John was offered a job in Suffolk, we jumped at the chance to start a new chapter here.”

Their son, Jasper, was born shortly afterwards and although family life was hectic, Yula missed singing. Throughout her career she had always found vocal

who’s about

who’s about comfort in being part of a close harmony choir and so she decided in her inimitable way that the only thing for it was to start one of her own! “I just love harmonies and am always making them up on the fly. Being part of a choir and working as a group to create an amplified, unified sound is just so uplifting and joyous and I wanted this back in my life. I put up a few flyers but wasn’t sure if anyone would come.” Luckily eight people turned up that first evening and in April 2012, Pop Chorus was born. Through word of mouth – and mainly, I suspect, due to talk of Yula’s incredible energy and enthusiasm for sharing the power of songmore members swiftly followed. Within two years Pop Chorus had established groups in Framlingham, Kesgrave and Ipswich and now, ten years on, members have eight daytime and evening groups to choose from.

Yula is firm in her belief that anyone and everyone can sing. “There is no audition, and you don’t need any experience, just come along and have some fun. Singing is a great leveller and joining together as one voice allows people to lose themselves and to forget about their stresses and problems.” Members sign up for a twelve-week term and if they really get into the groove, can attend multiple sessions every week at no extra cost. Yula selects the very best pop songs – from iconic bands such as Blondie, Queen, Lady Gaga and Radiohead – which she expertly arranges into five-part harmonies against professional backing tracks. “I sing and record each of the parts in advance and send everyone a teaching video so they can practise beforehand. This means we can crack on and get to the best part –singing as a choir – as swiftly as possible.”

Pop Chorus doesn’t just perform in churches and village halls. Over the years they have belted out a specially written charity single for St Elizabeth Hospice on the pitch at Portman Road and raised the roof of the BBC Sounds Stage at Latitude. “Playing to over 4000 people at Latitude was the most amazing, surreal experience. We sang ‘Atomic’ by Blondie and ‘Dog Days are Over’ by Florence and the Machine, and the crowd went wild. We were invited back two years in a row, and even got to meet Dermot O’Leary who interviewed us for BBC Radio 2. Happy days!” But, as well as loving the big times, Yula is also quietly making a difference on a much smaller scale with her Wellbeing Choir which she runs from a barn in Otley every week. It is open to all, including those with additional needs and people living with dementia and Parkinson’s.

“These sessions are very special as they give people and their carers a little respite from their condition, allowing them to come together and share the unabandoned joy of singing.”

As Yula chats away, I can see why people have fallen under her spell. She is genuine, funny and generous and you instantly feel you can trust her and that if she says, you can sing – you can! Maybe there is hope for me yet!

Pop Chorus will be performing on 2nd December as part of Framlingham’s festive late-night celebrations. www.popchorus.co.uk

who’s about

out & about

October:

Until 30th Oct: The Raven

The Common Ground Theatre tours with an excursion into the weird and wonderful mind of Poe.

Until 28th Oct:

Lowestoft Film Festival

Showcasing local talent & over 86 independent films.

22nd-30th Nov: The Garden Residency

An exhibition of work by Tessa Newcombe inspired by the gardens at White House Farm, Gt Glemham. www.galloper-sands.co.uk

25th:

House Tour of Glemham Hall

Explore this historic house and learn its secrets.

Glemham Hall

27th-29th: Spooky Sounds

Calling all little ghosts and ghouls to listen to spooky Suffolk tales.

The Red House

28th:

A Portrait of Dudley Moore

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club presents this swinging tribute to everyone's favourite jazz pianist.

New Wolsey Theatre

29th:

ColdPlay - Live Buenos Aires

The stunning ‘Music Of The Spheres’ world tour at The Riverside, Woodbridge

29th: Fireworks Spectacular

Fireworks, bonfire and food. Kingfishers Cretingham. From 4pm

November:

3rd: The Seagull

A 21st century retelling of Anton Chekhov’s tale of love and loneliness.

NTLive, Aldeburgh Cinema

5th:

After Miss Julie

The lady of the house descends to the servants’ quarters as a passionate night turns to tragedy. The Cut, Halesworth

5th-6th:

Slow Living Market

Showcasing and demonstrating craft from Suffolk and beyond.

Orford Town Hall

6th: Hannabiell & Midnight Blue

Exhilarating fusion of AfroCaribbean and Latin percussion, Jazz, Afro-beat, Funk and Reggae. Snape Maltings

15th & 20th: The Nutcracker

The sweetest of all Matthew Bourne’s treats.

The Riverside, Woodbridge.

18th-18th Dec:

Illuminated Garden Trail

A magical world of light, colour and sound. Helmingham Hall

19th: Honey and the Bear Folk and roots duo combining delicately interweaving vocal harmonies with emotive and evocative song writing.

The Cut, Halesworth

24th-28th Jan: Goldilocks and the Three Bears

The rock ‘n’ roll panto returns with circus capers for all the family.

New Wolsey Theatre

25th:

Beccles Christmas Lights

Come and see the town lit up with Christmas spirit.

26th:

Arsenic and Old Lace

Roughcast presents this famous and much-loved farce.

Wingfield Barns.

December:

2nd: Christmas on the Hill

Framlingham celebrates Christmas with late night shopping, music and festive fayre.

2nd:

A Victorian Christmas Dress up and celebrate Christmas with shopping and fun.

Saxmundham

2nd:

Christmas Gift Fair

10am-2pm. Free entry

Aldeburgh Yacht Club

2nd-11th: Co-op Juniors

Christmas Spectacular!

Snape Maltings.

out & about

3rd-4th: Christmas Market

Handmade gifts, foods, garden accessories, wreaths, carol singing and mulled wine. Wingfield Barns

5th:

Bungay Christmas Street Market

Earsham Street will be packed full of stalls selling unique individual gifts and festive food. Bungay 8th-7th Jan:

Little Red

Would you stick to the path this Christmas? Eastern Angles brings you this fabulous family show. Sir John Mills Theatre

9th-10th:

A Christmas Carol

Mini Mouth explores this classic story, jumping in and out of time and reality. The Cut, Halesworth

17th:

Evening Food Market

Tasty treats at Grange Farm Shop, Hasketon

- Halesworth

about style

Eye for the ladies

dream on Ladies Boutique in Eye was founded in 2010 by Bridget McIntyre and is much more than just a dress shop. Amanda Church, the stylist, organises regular makeover days; helping women to gain confidence and become equipped with the skills they need to look fabulous!

Bridget, tell us a bit about your background

It started at Willis. I was employed as a trainee accountant. During my career I realised that I loved leading and that I worked well with people. I joined Norwich Union (Aviva) as a Finance Manager and my career in financial services culminated at RSA where I was UK CEO. In 2008 I decided that the corporate world was no longer my passion, so I started to instigate the plan for dream on which I had written seven years previously.

How did the name dream on come about?

When starting the business, the choice of name was proving difficult. I was on safari with my husband and friends, talking to my friend about the dilemma and suddenly my husband said under his breath “dream on”…..and that was it!

What makes your business unique?

dream on is a Community Interest Company (CIC) so all the profits are used to help others by funding

complimentary makeover days for especially deserving women, for example those recovering from cancer or undergoing treatment,

and also as a thankyou to those who make an exceptional contribution to others. Profits are also used to offer free development programmes via our sister organisation, The Blossom Charity.

Amanda, what can guests expect on a Makeover Day?

As well as having your hair cut and styled, you receive a makeup lesson, gel nails and time with our stylists to help find the clothes that suit you. You also receive a lovely lunch with wine, ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos and 10% off any purchase on the day.

What has been your favourite reaction at the end of the day?

Some ladies can feel a little nervous at the start, but we are a very friendly team and love what we do. To see the transformation is the best; sometimes they just don’t want to leave. I have never worked anywhere that has received so many thankyou cards!

Your shop is full of beautiful clothes. How do you go about sourcing them?

We both love clothes and styling. We visit trade shows in the UK and also visit Copenhagen twice a year and although we have very

different tastes, we are confident that, together, we will choose wisely. We also think about our customer base and often buy with certain people in mind, but some things you just can’t resist!

Can ladies shop without having a Makeover Day?

Yes! When setting up the shop, we thought very hard about what we liked from a shopping experience, so we are on hand with advice if needed but you are welcome to browse. We have some constant brands but we also like to mix it up with new collections each season. Our sizes range from 8-22/24 and we offer a free alteration service. Whatever the occasion, we will try to find the right style for you.

What do you love about being in Eye?

Eye is a great little town. We feel a real part of the community now and have made some great friends. There’s so much going on and we like to get involved as much as we can.

You both enjoy creative roles in the business. What do you enjoy doing when you take time out?

Bridget: I love art and any

about style

opportunity to be creative; it might be painting, sculpting or just getting messy with the grandchildren. I also love nature and the countryside, so time spent with my dogs is so important to me. My husband and I also like to travel.

Amanda: I have two dogs, so walking is a big part of my day (in fact Bridget and I walk together virtually every morning before work). I feel so lucky living in Suffolk: the countryside on the doorstep, the coast within an hour, its great history, and London less than 90 minutes by train. My two sons have recently fled the nest, so I now have more time to socialise and love any opportunity to get dressed up!

about you

Tune in!

Radio Frequency is an innovative anti-ageing beauty treatment from dream on in Eye that directly lifts and tightens the face and neck by targeting the deep layers of the skin, using energy. By stimulating collagen synthesis, it improves the skin’s elasticity, helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and boosts circulation. It is great for improving tone and contours and the treatment results in a more lifted appearance.

Neck £40 (30 mins) Face and Neck £65 (75 mins) www.dream-on.co.uk

Raising brows

A new treatment is raising eyebrows at The Retreat Beauty Salon in Framlingham. Brow Lamination smooths and grooms your existing brow hairs into the perfect shape and is the ideal treatment if you are wanting to give your brows a fuller, fluffier look. It will also give them uniformity and looks very natural as it makes the most of how much, or how little, brow you have. Plus, as opposed to microblading, brow lamination is needle-free and semi-permanentthe treatment typically lasts 6-8 weeks - so is great if you are worried about fully committing to a new brow look.

Brow Lamination £32 (45 mins) www.theretreatfram.co.uk

Tiger balm

If you are a fan of the hot stone massage, you will love Lava Shell Massage, a new heat treatment being offered by Kesgrave Hall Spa. Tiger Clam shells are naturally heated and then used as a massage tool; the warm, smooth shells gently relaxing tense muscles and smoothing away knots and stress. It is a deeply relaxing massage that helps to

revitalise and rebalance the body and mind and is also wonderfully ecofriendly as the shells, which come from clams harvested in the Philippines and which would once have been thrown away, now find themselves recycled as part of this luxurious treatment.

Lava Shell Massage £65 (40 mins) www.milsomhotels. com/spa-kesgrave-hall

Vitamin vitality

As well as offering B12 injections, Asteria Wellbeing can now give you a little extra boost with both Vitamin C and D injections. Vitamin C is well known for its ability to fight colds, but it can also enhance immune systems, encourage collagen growth, lower hypertension, and even guard against heart disease. Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin”, plays an important role in the proper functioning of the body and is definitely worth considering if you are lacking in energy and feeling tired and rundown.

Call or email the salon for more information and advice.

www.merakiandasteriawellbeing.co.uk

you

Competition!

MakeupHair&Nails lessonStylingadvice

Before

Tired of the way you look but lacking the confidence to make any changes?

A Makeover Day at dream on in Eye is just what you need! Starting at 9am and finishing at 4pm, time will fly by as you enjoy having your hair styled, nails shaped and gelled, a makeup lesson and styling advice, pausing for lunch with wine and time to browse the clothes rails in the shop (10% off any clothes purchased on the day). Your day starts and ends with a photographic record of your transformation, toasted with a glass of fizz!

We’ve teamed up with dream on to offer one lucky lady a £140 Makeover Day to enjoy or gift to a loved one. www.dream-on.co.uk

For your chance of winning this

prize, please answer the

your answer to prize@aboutfram.com quoting Dream in the subject header.

competition closes at 23.59 hours on 11th December 2022.

Post & packaging about interiors

Nestled opposite the church at Wetheringsett, Waveney Cottage is a magical place where pink gaura dance in the autumn sun, sumptuous velvet sofas are plumped in readiness, windowsills are lined with foraged treasures and every room has a story to tell. We accept an invitation to explore with owner and artist Sara MacIver.

The cottage, which dates in parts back to the 16th century, was the village post office until as recently as 2005, and in the kitchen the worn stone floor bricks carry the imprint of over a hundred years of custom. The original wooden counter is topped with a stack of well thumbed cookbooks, trays of windfalls, a bright yellow vase spilling over with dried flowers, and a tailor’s dummy wearing a french policeman’s hat at a jaunty angle. The kitchen is a jumble of artwork, books and artisan pottery, with shelves stacked high with jars of homemade jams and pickles, and ceiling hooks dripping with sieves, spatulas

and serving spoons. Above the Aga, saucepans and coffee pots wait their turn and the drawers of the original spice cupboard still bear their labels: nutmeg, ginger, pepper, caraway seeds, tobacco and sago, and whilst Sara makes us a brew, I settle into a faded armchair and delight in its glorious disarray, feeling truly at home.

Sara and her huband Ian have lived here since 2016 and although the cottage was restored after Win, the fondly remembered postmistress, retired it has retained many original features and the rooms still whisper

about interiors

about interiors

their stories. In a small hall just off the kitchen, Sara shows me where WWII servicemen would pay to use the telephone to call their loved ones, shutting the door to the post office to allow them to reconnect with the much missed and yearned-for slice of home. The living room is a bright sunny space where the panes of the leadlight window offer tiny individual vistas of the garden and a fireplace is stacked in readiness of the changing season. Through in the snug, deep sofas awash with colourful cushions sit either side of an enormous ingelnook fireplace where an Everhot stove can be cranked up whilst you settle down to read one of the hundred or so books that are stacked in organised piles on the industrial trolley coffee table; on low side tables; in the arched alcove and along the mantlepiece. With titles covering topics as varied as the

arts, nature, interior design, fiction, history and cookery, the only problem would be where to start.

An opulent silk sari slides back to reveal the scullery, which Sara uses as a flower room, and the shelves are lined with an assortment of jugs, vases and terracotta pots. Trugs of seed packets jostle for space with gilded tea cups and vintage jelly moulds, and in the corner by the old butler sink, Sara shows me the original pump, where Win would have drawn water from the well. Back in the kitchen, we gather our mugs of tea and wander out into the garden, closely followed by Paddy, their faithful and slightly greying black labrador. It is a gorgeous autumn morning and on a table by the backdoor, bowls of apples are ripening in the sunshine, sunflower heads are slowly fading and tender

about interiors

herbs gathered in case of an early frost. Sara’s love of orderly disorderly can be seen in the planting, with wild geranium allowed to creep across the gravel, an ancient wheelbarrow full of boisterous dahlia, and verbena, lupins, and hollyhocks showing off against the black weatherboarding. The orchard is bountiful with crops of apple, pear, mulberries and quince, and metal troughs are atangle with strawberry runners.

In the outbuilding, where travellers might have once rested their horses, Ian has created a calm office space and Sara, a studio where she exhibits her work during Suffolk Open Studio weekends. Her working studio is above and accessed off the kitchen via a narrow wooden staircase with ingenious alternate paddle steps. The long attic space doubles up as a guest room and as her

workspace where she creates wonderful mixed media paintings, tearing pages of hand printed and painted papers to create abstract collages of local scenes, again with that sense of needing to create chaos to find order. She paints every day, taking inspiration from nature’s palette and allowing it to fuel her need for creativity, which is clearly evident, not just in her paintings, but also in the little touches around the cottage. Her collected treasures of seedheads, unusually shaped stones, feathers and flowers that adorn every window ledge, all combine to make this a wonderfully colourful and comforting home.

Follow Sara on Instagram at /saramaciverart

about town

Go wild in the country

Referred to as the gateway to the southern Broads, Carlton Marshes is a thriving wetland that is fast becoming one of East Anglia’s most important natural landscapes and so, to celebrate its success, Suffolk Wildlife Trust has commissioned street artist ATM to create a series of wildlife murals. Situated on the walls of prominent buildings, these fabulously vibrant paintings highlight some of the special species that live on the reserve. They have been positioned along a walking trail that leads from the bustling centre of Lowestoft out to the reserve and you can download the route via their website. As you go, make sure you tick off the Marsh Harrier, Barn Owl, Kingfisher, Norfolk Hawker Dragonfly, Bittern, Water Vole, Heron, and Kittiwake. www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/news

Nest building

Launched this autumn, The Nest Farm is a charity set up in response to the overwhelming demand for mental health support for young people in Suffolk. Based near Framlingham, The Nest will offer day placements to under 25-year-olds, with opportunities to work on the farm whilst benefitting from support from mental health professionals.

Founder, Hannah Tuckwell, said, “The Nest will provide a nurturing, natural setting for young people to visit every week. In a safe, positive environment, they will be supported in learning how to manage their mental health and offered training across a range of land-based skills, giving them the tools to live independently at school or at work.”

The charity is currently calling for support, volunteers and donations.

To find out more, please visit www.thenestfarms.org

Lighting the way

Bury St Edmunds is hosting a Spectacular Sound and Light Show as an unmissable finale to a year of celebrations marking 1,000 years since the founding of the Abbey of St Edmund by King Cnut. Taking place every evening from the 17th-20th November, sound and light projections onto both the historic Norman Tower and St Edmundsbury Cathedral Tower will tell the story of St Edmund using carefully researched historic images, accompanied by an enchanting themed light trail through the Abbey Gardens.

Fully accessible, it will take around 20-30 minutes, and tickets are on sale via the website or in person at the Apex box office.

£3 per person, with free entry for under 5s. www.abbeyofstedmund1000.co.uk

Get airborne!

Old Jet is launching a pioneering new scheme to help emerging artists based in East Anglia kickstart their careers.

The Old Jet Airspace programme will provide free studio space and mentorship for young artists who are starting their careers and it lifts off in January 2023 with Youth Music.

Open to 18–25-year-olds, successful candidates will be offered 47 days of paid freelance work within their area of interest e.g. in the studio, with a stage crew, with a PA company etc, and will have access to

about interiors about town

dedicated studio time and collaborations with other artists and freelancers.

Deadline for applications is 14th November. For more details on eligibility and how to apply visit www.oldjet.co.uk/ airspaceprogramme

about time in ... Framlingham

about time

Framlingham has held a market on the Hill since 1285. On Tuesday and Saturday, local nurseryman Roger, who has had a stall for 50 years, is first to set up alongside Darren and his fish stall. Other regular stallholders include Brown Bread and Cupboard Love, with seasonal stallholders tempting you with their wares, as and when. Stock up with fantastic local meat from Hall Farm Butchers and savoury delights from Leo’s Deli. Pop into Coopers or Fram DIY, which, between them, have all you need for any DIY project including the kitchen sink. The town boasts several antique and vintage shops – you’ll find it hard to resist passing by Narwhal Interiors, Majestic Hare Apothecary or Dix-Sept Antiques – and when it comes to fashion, you’re spoilt for choice. Be sure to explore Ruby Tyger, tucked away in the Mews just off the Hill. You won’t come away empty-handed!

As rural English towns go, it could be said that Framlingham enjoys more than its fair share of fame, both in historical importance and its place in popular culture today. Ed Sheeran has made the town a destination for visitors from all over the world, keen to see the ‘Castle on the Hill’, and Detectorist fans will no doubt be revisiting after Mackenzie Crook and Toby Jones returned to film a feature length special, earlier this year. However, the first international celebrity in town was Mary Tudor who, in 1553, was proclaimed the first Queen of England within the walls of Framlingham Castle. If you haven’t visited yet, now is the time…

Framlingham has a great café culture and hums with the chatter of locals jostling for the best spots at the Dancing Goat or outside The Crown - the town’s hotel. We love the generous food and atmosphere at The Common Room Café, located within no 10 Church St, which draws people in in their droves, but if you just fancy a bowl of homemade soup or sausage roll, Simpsons Café is the place.

Ed (that’s Sheeran) has always been partial to a pint of Victoria at The Station and the food is excellent too. Perennial favourites include whole grilled fish, devilled kidneys and kedgeree. The pizzas prepared out back are delicious too. Another splendid pub, just over 5 minutes’ drive from Framlingham, is the Dennington Queen. It also makes a great endpoint for a walk: starting from the castle and heading out over the fields, stepping over the threshold into its beautiful interior in just under an hour. At this time of year, you’ll be welcomed by a roaring fire too.

about time

Do book into Italian restaurant, Watson & Walpole, rated ‘Very Good’ in the Good Food Guide.With its monthly changing menus, the seasonality of its offering is its raison d’être, as is the wood-fired oven in which many of its dishes are prepared. The tiramisu is to die for…

Books!

There are two bookshops in town, both on the Market Hill. Run by Victoria Bell, Framlingham Bookshop is spilling over with second-hand books, its shelves heaving under the weight and you’ll also find local interest books too, some of which are new in print. Ottie & the Bea is an independent children’s shop spread over two rooms, one of which is filled with beautiful books with titles for new-born through to young teenagers. With new books coming in all the time, a regular visit is a must for any aspiring bookworm.

A wander around the Mere

The Mere used to supply the castle with fish and is now a nature reserve managed by Suffolk Wildlife Trust. It is at its best in the autumn; its hedgerows heavy with hips and berries and paths strewn with falling leaves, and it makes for a splendid stroll in the fresh air. Set off from the meadow alongside the castle entrance before routing down to join a circular walk around the Mere’s perimeter. Once you’ve completed the circle, giant steps bring you back up to the castle from where you can revel in its magnificence.

Tickling your tastebuds!

The shelves are stacked high with award-winning jars of yumminess in Scarlett & Mustard’s brightly coloured shop on the outskirts of town. You’ll also find delicious treats from other local makers too. It’s never too soon to stock up for Christmas when the offering is this good…. www.scarlettandmustard.co.uk

Fun on the Farm

Easton Farm Park is a must if you have a young family. Just outside Framlingham, it promises a fantastic day out, whatever the time of year. Book now for Festive Fun, a jam-packed day starting with the Welcome Elf Show, plus Christmas Crafts, Winter Wonderland Walk, Mother Christmas’ Kitchen, Santa’s Stables and of course, the man himself... www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

about time

Framlingham Castle

What: Ghost Tour

about time

When: 28th- 31st October Do you dare explore Framlingham Castle in the dark this Halloween? If so, join their storytellers as they guide you on a journey through the past, with tales of ghosts, supernatural sightings and horrors from history.

Book online at www.english-heritage.org.uk

What: Framlingham Light & Sound Spectacular

When: 4th November: 5.30 & 7.30pm

Framlingham Town Council is putting on a new, environmentally friendly event for bonfire night, teaming up with Noise of Art, an established music and arts organisation, to create a special Framlingham Sound & Light Spectacular within the atmospheric venue of the Castle. There’ll be music, lights, and mobile art projections at both events, with the early evening show designed for families, and the later one for an older crowd. Places are limited to 800 per show, and online booking is essential. www.framlingham.com

St Michael’s Church

What: “1685 and all that”

Alaster Bentley (oboe)

Julian Larkin (harpsichord)

When: 12th November: 3pm

Alaster Bentley studied at the Purcell School and after a spell in Paris was appointed Principal Oboe with the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, holding the post for over 40 years. Join him as he plays works by Handel, Bach and Scarlatti – all born in 1685 –and more, accompanied by Julian Larkin on the harpsichord.

For more information and tickets visit www.framus.co.uk

What: Christmas Tree Festival

When: from December 3rd Community groups, businesses and local charities join together to create a fantastic display of Christmas Trees, each decorated with a different theme and displayed in the church. Entry is free, but a donation is appreciated.

Don’t miss:

What: Christmas Shopping event

When: 26th November

Where: Ernest Doe, Broadwater Road, IP13 9LL

What: Christmas on the Hill

When: December 2nd Lantern procession starting from the Castle at 5pm, led by Father Christmas and ending on Market Hill with the lighting of the Christmas

Tree. Shops will be open until 9pm, with more craft stalls in the Old Theatre and in the Unitarian Meeting House. The market will host a barbecue grill and more besides. Carol singing with the primary school pupils and live music all evening.

What: Advent Calendar Windows Double St

From the 1st - 24th December

Residents of this historic street put on a wonderful display, each lighting up a window with their own creation to mark one day of Advent for charity.

What: Converge 6 Pop Up Shop @ 10 Church St

When: 6th - 18th December

Where: 10 Church St

Fabulous local artists, designers and makers showcase their talents.

Take comfort about the land

about the land

As I head up the leafy lane towards Moor Hall Farm, I come across a pick-up truck, its tailgate all of a wriggle with three very eager collies. Jayne, founder of Woolly Comforts, who has been feeding the ewes, bobs into view and we drive in convoy up to the farmhouse.

Here I am introduced to the black and white trio: brother and sister, Ernie and Nell, and an enthusiastic Bonny, who is the new kid on the farm and still in training. Jayne pops them away, pulls off her wellies – adding them to an already impressive heap in the boot room – and we settle in the kitchen, a wonderfully warm and welcoming family space where Bindi, the Jack Russell, curls up next to the Aga. Jayne and her husband Stuart have farmed locally to the Eye area for thirty years. “When we first married, we used to run about twenty ewes as we both

had jobs off the farm, but always loved the idea of building it up so we could work together. Over the years we gradually expanded the flock, experimenting with a Suffolk/Charolais cross that produced a quality carcass, and an Aberfield/Beulah cross that is what we call ‘a good doer’.”

Today, Jayne and Stuart are kept busy on the farm with a flock of 250 sheep and two free-range egg units. Their day starts at 6.30am when, together with the dogs, they do the rounds to check on the livestock and

about the land

then, depending on the time of year, get on with the job in hand - whether it be fencing, shearing, lambing, watering, or feeding - as with all livestock, there is always something to be done and never a dull moment! Their three girls, Meg, Elle and Phoebe, have grown up alongside this busy schedule, learning at an early age how to whistle the dogs or swing a bucket. “Farming is hard work, but it brings its own rewards and impromptu nights camping down on the meadows with a gaggle of kids, dogs and friends have to be some of our happiest memories.” The lamb is sold via wholesalers, Bramfield Meats, to independent butchers such as Hall Farm in Framlingham and John Hutton in Earl Soham, as well as local pubs and restaurants, and you can also order a lamb box directly if you book ahead.

It wasn’t until 2015 that Jayne and Stuart decided to diversify and make use of the pelts that are an obvious by-product of their business. “We knew that the lambskins could be used to make a range of luxurious products and after a night in the pub with the girls we came up with the name Woolly Comforts. All we had to do now was work out what to do next.” Jayne contacted Devonia, the oldest established tannery in the UK, which still employs traditional processing techniques to ensure that the lambskins are of the highest grade, and she struck up a relationship that has gone from strength to strength. The pelts have to be salted as soon as possible so this is done on the farm and they are then left to dry. Once they have amassed a bundle, Jayne and Stuart take them to the tannery where they undergo a 12-week tanning process, the

about the land

pelts being repeatedly dipped and washed in huge wooden vats before being spun to make then super soft and fluffy. “We love the road trip down there as the team is so welcoming and we often make a weekend of it – a rare chance to get away.”

Jayne sources artisan weavers and crafters to turn the lambskins into a variety of products including giant floor cushions backed with Harris tweed, pouffes, hot water bottle covers, and footstools made in collaboration with upholsterers, Sew Plush.

Every lambskin is unique, and they range in colour from a beautifully pale cream to a warm cappuccino, each one deeply luxurious and wonderfully soft to the touch. Jayne also buys in pelts from other small independent farmers and amongst the rugs, I glimpse the distinctive chocolatey spot of

the Jacob and the soft grey tones of the Herdwick. Through attending weekly farmers’ markets, vintage fairs and small shows across the country, Jayne has grown Woolly Comforts to become the success it is today, and she is proud to have such a loyal online following and so many repeat customers. “I love it when people get in touch again looking for a gift for a friend, maybe a lambskin for a new baby, or runner for a new sofa. It makes me feel that all our hard work has been worth it.” Now that must be a truly comforting thought!

Woolly Comforts has a pop-up at Carousel in Framlingham 16th-22nd November. www.woollycomforts.co.uk Instagram /woollycomforts

about design

Boo who?

about design

Bright as a button, Boo Compton is a contemporary abstract artist whose beautiful paintings are attracting the attention of galleries, art directors and private collectors around the world. We scratch beneath the surface to find out more about her love of colour and where she finds her inspiration.

Boo lives in Mendham with her daughter Lily and husband Darren, and she greets me at the gate of her thatched cottage in her characteristic blue overalls, all warmth and smiles. Inside, the cottage is a successful collaboration of the contemporary and the classic, a pair of the designer Tom Dixon lights perfectly in keeping propped up against the huge inglenook fireplace, and a pair of modern sculpted clay heads at home gazing at exposed rafters that date back to the early 15th century. Boo has lived here since she left London with Lily in 2006, finding solace and peace beneath its low ceilings, and as we chat in the kitchen, I can

sense that is a fun family home where friends are always welcome. She met Darren through mutual friends in London and they married ten years ago, building ‘his and hers’ studios in the garden so they can both work from home.

Boo originally studied graphics at Kingston School of Art, moving to West Hampstead in the early 90s where she shared a mews house with a mix of music producers and DJs. “The music scene was evolving and club culture was on the rise. I set up my own design agency and started designing flyers for club nights at places like The End and

about design

Bagleys, which was London’s largest nightclub at the time. It was pretty wild but great fun.” Boo disappears upstairs and returns with her portfolio and we flick through past designs for invitations to private views at the iconic Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) and posters for the South Bank Centre and Soul II Soul. It is a slice of pure nostalgia: those heady days of London life as a twenty-something, thick cigarette smoke, fashion statements and endless possibilities.

After moving to Suffolk, Boo continued to work as a graphic designer but began experimenting with painting. “I have always painted. It allowed me to break away from the constraints of graphic design, which can be tight and precise, and also to express my feelings.” She attended a series of art classes

at Wingfield Barns run by abstract painter

John Parker who encouraged her to explore that side of her own work. “John gave me the confidence I needed to believe in myself and after I sold well at my first Suffolk Open Studios exhibition, I threw myself into my art, covering the dining room with canvases and exploring colour, space and light.”

Michelle Clover from the gallery at Snape Maltings was an early advocate of her work, and successful exhibitions at Carousel in Framlingham and Art Space in Woodbridge quickly followed.

In her studio, working canvasses are stacked by the window, finished ones wrapped for dispatch, and the crowded workbench is strewn with the fallout of her creative process - sketch pads filled with squares of colour, mixed by Boo to find the exact shade

she has envisaged, tins stuffed full of brushes and oil bars, half squeezed tubes of acrylic, dripping aerosol cans, marker pens, glue sticks, encrusted palettes - it is messy and disorganised and wonderful. “My art tends to be emotionally based and I paint pictures in my mind before transcribing them onto the canvas.” She applies layers of colour and collage, the picture emerging as shapes and tones are added and subtracted, dashes of fluorescence giving vibrancy and rows of dots, texture and form. She balances the use of bold colour with light and shade, cleverly using negative space so that the art can breathe, whilst retaining enormous depth in her compositions.

Boo’s work is gaining traction, with collectors in Germany, California and Singapore, and her paintings have been

about design

selected and exhibited by two of the most established abstract galleries in the UK –Silson Contemporary in Harrogate and Gina Cross in Camberwell - the latter choosing sixteen abstracts to take to the Affordable Art Fair in London this year. “I am so grateful for their support and still feel that incredible buzz of excitement when anyone expresses an interest in my work.” Praise is often hard to accept, but after spending an afternoon with Boo and seeing her bold, beautifully expressive paintings, she should be proud of the journey that brought her to Suffolk and for allowing art to become such an expression of herself.

Commissions and studio visits welcome by appointment. www.boocomptonart.com Follow on Instagram /boocomptonart

Pick ‘n’ Mix

about gardens

Planning and planting a cutting garden requires some effort now, but the rewards, come the spring, when you can delight in bouquets of freshly picked flowers are definitely worth it.

about gardens

Location. Location. Location

If space allows, dedicate a whole section of your garden to just growing flowers for cutting. Make sure it is in a sunny spot and there is room to plant in rows for easy weeding, staking, and picking. An area of your vegetable garden works well or a border away from your main planting scheme.

The hard graft

Preparation is key. Mark out your new flower bed and dig it over, clearing weeds and breaking up any large clods as you go. If necessary, you can double dig, which involves inverting a second level of soil and forking in a layer of well-rotted manure or garden compost before replacing the top layer. This will improve drainage and also deepens the all-important topsoil.

Planning ahead

To ensure you have gorgeous blooms throughout the growing season, think about your planting and work out the flowering

cycle of your favourite picks. Those with a long flowering season are ideal, and also include shrubs for interesting foliage and bulbs for spring colour.

Here are a few ideas to get you started: Spring: coreopsis, tulip, witch hazel, lily-ofthe-valley, narcissus and grape hyacinth.

Summer: salvia, yarrow, aquilegia, phlox, lady’s mantle, echinacea, gypsophila and echinops.

Autumn: Japanese anemone, aster, dahlia and helenium.

Remember, throughout the summer you can fill in any gaps with pretty annuals such as love-in-the-mist, cosmos, cornflower and tobacco plants.

There are no rules to creating a cutting garden so have fun plotting and, in the spring, watch as it grows into a riotous palette of colourful blooms that you can dip into time and time again.

about gardens

All change

Autumn creeps through the garden like an early morning mist. Warm days might set the garden aglow but chilly evenings can catch the gardener out so make sure you protect any half hardy plants with fleece or move them into the greenhouse. After such a dry summer, now is the time to clear your beds of withered annuals such as faded sweet peas and morning glory and prepare the ground for the colder months ahead. Lawns have also suffered, but a last mow will help with regrowth and there is still time to lay fresh turf if required.

November brings unexpected colour with dogwood’s fiery stems and vibrant clumps of cyclamen dotted beneath the sleeping trees. Pots of winter pansies can be used to adorn doorways and you won’t regret buying a Mahonia Japonica – a hardy evergreen shrub that bears spikes of bright yellow flowers

Tales from the potting shed

October

Divide herbaceous perennials

Prune climbing roses

Rake leaves

right through until March, smells divine, and is very popular with winter bumblebees. Whilst the soil is still warm, roll up your sleeves and plant your tulips and spring bulbs – be bold and plant in large drifts for a fabulous display come the spring.

December settles upon the garden and everything is quiet. Keep warm by digging over empty borders, pruning the wisteria, fruit trees and shrubs, but leave the drying heads of hydrangea, alliums and other seed heads to be transformed into sparkling statues by the icy grip of the frost. Look after the wildlife by hanging bird feeders, building an insect hotel, or leave a wild corner where they can take shelter over the winter months. And, as the festive season gently inveigles your home, gather stems of berried winter shrubs to create a glorious centrepiece.

November

Plant spring-flowering bulbs

Mulch veg beds

Plant bare root roses

December Stake climbers

Hang bird feeders Hard prune shrubs

Food for thought about food

food

Covering 75 acres, with 17 historical buildings and a full programme of events celebrating the rural heritage of Suffolk, the Food Museum in Stowmarket is an inspiring destination that is on a mission to reconnect visitors with traditional and current farming practices and to explore the impact of our everyday choices.

Formerly known as the Museum of East Anglian Life, it was established in 1967 after Abbot’s Hall and part of the surrounding estate were left in trust to the town of Stowmarket by sisters, Vera and Ena Longe. The magnificent Queen Anne house and its inhabitants had long played an important role in the town’s history, so it is very fitting that it is now open to the public and forms such a central part of the museum. You can also explore the walled garden, where much of the food used in the café is grown, a working watermill, medieval barn, blacksmith’s forge, traditional dairy cottages,

and many more of the original farm buildings that have been sympathetically restored and are now used for exhibitions, food demonstrations and events.

The museum is also home to an impressive collection of over 40,000 bygone artifacts including vintage farm machinery, horse drawn vehicles, agricultural tools and cooking utensils, which were either collected by the museum or gifted. Chloe explains that over lockdown they embarked on the mammoth task of digitalising all the items. “We asked volunteers and were

about food

overwhelmed by the response, with people across the world offering to process the information for us. We are now uploading photographs for each item and volunteers are sorting through the old boxes that have been in the collections stores for years. It’s been quite exciting as we never know what they are going to find!”

In its heyday the estate would have been a thriving working farm, harvesting wheat for bread, hops for beer, producing a wide range of fruit, vegetables and meat, and employing many local people. And so, earlier this year, under the guiding hand of its current director, Jenny Cousins, the decision was made to rebrand and change the name to the Food Museum in acknowledgment of their changing audience, and to allow them to concentrate on the wider issue of the environmental impact of food. In line with

this change of focus, the museum offers an extensive programme of events aimed at engaging with visitors and allowing them to have an interactive experience. Activities include apple pressing, have-a-go farming, sheepdog demos, foraging walks and cooking classes, as well as daily events such as meeting the Suffolk Punch and feeding the other farm animals.

We chat to Chloe Brett, who has been at the museum for ten years, initially joining as a student trainee and now their full-time marketing manager. “Looking to the future we want to grow our offering and already have a clear idea of the visitor experience we aim to deliver. Our new school programme, which allows students to get more hands-on with how food is grown, produced, cooked, and eaten, has been very successful.” There is certainly fun to be had here, with Field to

about food

Loaf sessions where children are shown the watermill in action, using the freshly milled flour to make bread which is then baked in a wood-fired oven, or Butter Making using old butter pats, skimmers, and churns. “This sort of hand-on experience is invaluable for enriched learning as it properly engages their attention and is always great fun.”

The William Bone Building, the museum’s new exhibition space, is currently hosting ‘Hedgerow’ which explores and celebrates hedgerows and how they have become part of our food system. It also has a demonstration kitchen where you can taste a variety of hedgerow inspired recipes foraged from around the grounds of the museum. Chloe admits to this being one of her favourite attractions. “I love popping down to see what they are making and have enjoyed everything from elderflower

cocktails to fruit winders to nettle tea!” This autumn you can also see a new project run in collaboration with Leeds University called ‘In your words’, which celebrates East Anglian voices past and present talking about food and farming.

And if all this talk of food makes you hungry, then no visit is complete without visiting their café, a lovely bright space with a menu featuring dishes made in-house using fresh ingredients grown on the farm and carefully planned according to what is in season.

Adults £12 / Children £8 unlimited entry for 12 months www.foodmuseum.org.uk

about taste

Dine on, December

We were delighted to feature Joey and Katy and their plans for Husk in our spring issue of the magazine, and we’re now very excited to learn that their supper club will launch with four festive feasts in December. The converted cowshed will open its doors to diners for the first time with a special festive menu on the 9th, 10th, 14th & 17th. With a roaring log fire in the corner of the barn, festive spirits will be in full swing! Husk uses the very best Suffolk suppliers across its menusFen Farm Dairy, Sutton Hoo Chicken, Hodmedod’s grains - and many more. The final menu will be announced nearer the time, however the very popular Suffolk Game Croquettes served up at the Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival will certainly feature. Tickets are £65 and include a welcome cocktail or glass of English sparkling wine, canapés, four courses, and some petits fours to finish. Best book now! www.huskthorington.co.uk

Christmas feast unveiled

Vela is a fabulous café in Saxmundham run by Sue, and Silke, who is German, and since opening in June last year, locals have flocked there to enjoy delicious sweet and savoury delights from her home country. This December, you can tuck into kartoffelklöße – delicious potato dumplings - served alongside roast goose, homemade gravy and festive red cabbage. The café is open Thurs 10am – 5pm, Friday and Saturday 10am – 9pm. It all sounds lecker!

Booking essential. For more details visit www.velapartners.co.uk

Raising the bar!

To say that the past couple of years have been challenging for pubs is somewhat of an understatement, with many having to close their doors. Yet, there is still a real thirst for a ‘local’ in our rural communities and so we welcomed the news that The Swan in Worlingworth reopened its doors after a period in decline, having been beautifully restored, earlier this year. It’s currently open Thurs/Friday, 5 –11pm, 11am – 11pm at the weekend, and will be fully open by the end of the year with a shop to boot!

Opening next spring is the Debenham Lion, formerly The Red Lion. Nearly twentyfive years after closing its doors, Leonora Faggionato and her team are undertaking the restoration of this historic building with the help of architects, Hoare, Ridge & Morris. Originally known as a gylynghows, the earliest part of the building was completed in 1463 and housed brewing vats and a cookhouse for the village. Later recorded as a public house in the 18th century, the team is looking forward to re-establishing the Lion as a welcoming community hub and to serving the people of Debenham and further afield with the finest local food and drink. Follow their progress on Instagram /debenhamlion

about taste

The Greyhound Inn, Pettistree has long enjoyed a loyal following and that is set to continue with the news that it has been taken over by dynamic team, Will and Cassidy, and Head Chef Harry who joins them from The River Cafe, London. Seasonality is at the heart of this kitchen, working hands on and closely with exceptional local and British producers, and wine list which will be carefully curated, matching a daily menu created by Harry, “We feel incredibly lucky to have such great producers here in Suffolk. Going into autumn, I will be making the most of all the wonderful game, fresh walnuts, wild mushrooms and orchard fruits in the kitchen.” Will, co-owner, added, “We are opening a traditional inn, serving warming

plates of food that speak to the time of year and a sense of place. We are all particularly excited for those long Sunday lunches with sharing dishes and a nice glass of wine or ale by a crackling fire.” The Greyhound Inn will be open all day from Wednesday to Sunday, with bookings via their website. www.asuffolkpub.co.uk

Butternut squash, sage and ricotta focaccia

about taste

Ingredients

265g strong white bread flour

225g warm water

3g dried yeast

6g fine sea salt

4 tbsp quality olive oil

10-15 large sage leaves finely chopped (plus extra for decoration)

1 tsp cracked black pepper

300g butternut squash (cooked weight)

1 medium red onion

150g ricotta Truffle oil

Method

Mix the flour and salt in a bowl. Combine the water with the yeast and add to the bowl to form a wet dough. Add the chopped sage and black pepper. Drizzle 2 tbsp of olive oil down the side of the bowl then slide your scraper down the sides so that the dough is ‘floating’ on the oil in the bottom of the bowl. Cover and set aside to rest. After 30 minutes, wet your hands and take hold of one side of the dough and fold it into the middle. Repeat with the rest of the dough and fold two more times over the next hour (90 minutes total) then place your dough in the fridge overnight.

Peel and dice your squash, chop the onions into quarters and then pull apart the layers. Toss in olive oil and roast at 180°c until tender but not browned. Allow to cool before using. Now grease and line a 23x23x5cm

baking tray and ‘pour’ the dough into it. Gently press towards the edges of the tin to flatten and even it out - use wet fingers and do this in stages with 5 minutes rest in between so the dough can relax. Now dollop teaspoons of ricotta on the top of the dough, push the butternut squash into the surface, and sprinkle on the red onion. Allow the dough to prove in a warm place for 1-2 hours until bubbly and increased in size.

Preheat your oven to 200°c and bake for 25-35 minutes until golden brown. Brush with olive oil whilst warm and sprinkle on some flaky sea salt to taste. Cool slightly and decorate with gently fried sage leaves, a drizzle of truffle oil, and enjoy!

(Recipe courtesy of Two Magpies)

Autumn is perfect for pottering in the kitchen creating flavoursome breads with seasonal ingredients.

round & about

Autumn Symphony

They do say that the best things in life are free and as we arrive in Southwold on a truly glorious autumn morning, we know that to be true. We’re at the harbour carpark, raring to get our boots on and strike out along the Blackshore before heading abroad to Walberswick for a walk that never disappoints.

High above us, the sky is a jewel, royal blue and free of cloud. The tide is high too, so high that the sea repeatedly ices the harbour walls with a huge, rolling foamy swell as we walk alongside. The world and his wife, or should we say dachshund, are here for the annual charity sausage-dog walk and we have to negotiate our way past the fish and chip huts through a web of long leads before we free ourselves of the canine crowd going in the other direction. Just before the Harbour Inn, we are impelled to stop at Samantha K’s fish

hut to inspect the catch of the day. Seconds later, we’ve bagged some skate, and I’m already hearing the butter sizzling and spitting in the pan as its browns…

Past the pub and up the slope we go, pausing on the bridge that crosses the river Blyth to admire the skill of the yachtsmen, until we spot the one that has gone adrift. Time for us to move on. In times past, the bridge would have served the narrow-gauge trains ferrying visitors from nearby Halesworth to

round & about

Southwold, and we follow the route of the track almost into Walberswick before turning off to the right onto a narrow path punctuated with yellow gorse. Through a five-bar gate and we cross a meadow; to our right, the remnants of the railway line covered in a shroud of ferns which we leave behind as we reach the road. Crossing over, it takes just a few strides before we re-join the footpath, stepping lightly across a field of what looks like micro pea shoots, but that might just be wishful thinking on my part, and through a gate onto East Sheep walks.

We take the track to the left through another meadow, which is hard work into the wind and yet, tiny dragonflies dart about with ease, bidding each and every blade of grass a fond farewell. Mother Nature and her orchestra are now in full swing. The gusts,

the roll of the timpani drums in our ears; the dry whistling of the oaks, the long bowing of the violins; the cawing of a solitary crow, the melancholic sonority of the oboe.

Arriving at a gate, we cross a lane, stepping down cautiously into the dark of the woods as our eyes adjust. We would love to take the path off to the right, walking until dusk, but as we need to pick up the skate before teatime, we follow the track through the woods. The wind is really up now and the trees look as if they’re at a silent disco, each dancing to different beat as it surges through their branches, spinning them round. We reach the marshes which are bathed in full sun. They look, and sound, breathtakingly beautiful. Surrounded by reeds, a gossamer mantle of silver and gold thread, we walk to the old mill – standing

round & about

sentinel over the marshes - before turning left onto the boardwalk, then left again to ascend the throne, a humble bench, from which to survey this glorious kingdom. Over to the right, we can see Sizewell B power station, its dome outlined like a giant scoop of ice-cream, and to the left, kite surfers enjoying this blustery day.

Turning up from the bench, we take the path into Walberswick, coming out at the top end and slowly drifting down, admiring the houses as we go. Pausing at the Black Dog Deli to grab a sausage roll to-go, we amble down the street, peeking into the gardens for our free masterclass in coastal planting and slowing our pace to read the boards at the Anchor - a favourite haunt - but resisting the temptation to pop in on this occasion, we

stroll on to the village green. Dropping down to the river, we debate whether to take the foot ferry but as we do, a squadron of geese comes into view before landing on the flats. Decision taken to walk, we hear their chatter as they land and imagine the conversation, “Nice flight?”, “Any delays en route?”. As they settle into their winter barracks, the cattle don’t seem put out that it will soon be time for them to move on. The path running alongside the river is busy today, a superhighway bustling with fresh-air loving promenaders. Crossing back over the river, we aim to return to the fish hut but as we draw near and see the sun warming the terrace at the Harbour Inn, we feel it only right and proper that as Mother Nature has put on such a show for us, we should raise a toast in her honour, and so, we do.

Health & Wellbeing

Gardening

Stockists

about you

Asteria Wellbeing www.merakiandasteriawellbeing. co.uk @asteriawellbeing dream on 13 Castle Street Eye IP23 7AN T: 01379 678483 www.dream-on.co.uk

Spa Kesgrave Hall Hall Road Kesgrave Ipswich IP5 2PU T: 01473 855105 www.milsomhotels.com/spakesgrave-hall

The Retreat Beauty Salon 12-14 Well Close Square Framlingham IP13 9DU T: 01728 723445 www.theretreatfram.co.uk

Interiors emporium

Barretts of Woodbridge 40 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AL www.barretts.co.uk

Constance and Denny www.constanceanddenny.com @constanceanddenny

East of Eden

The Old Barn Fromus Square Saxmundham IP17 1DG www.east-of-eden.co.uk in da cottage www.indacottage.co.uk @indacottage

Max Southwold 25 High Street Southwold IP18 6AD www.maxsouthwold.co.uk

Narwhal Interiors 23 Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN @narwhal_interiors

no1EastLane Swan House & Garden 21 High St Debenham IP14 6QL @no1eastlane

The Pug and the Pussycat www.pugandpussycat.co.uk

Ruby and the Angel 66A High Street Debenham IP14 6QP www.rubyandtheangel.co.uk

Snape Maltings Snape Bridge Snape IP17 1SP www.brittenpearsarts.org

Swan House & Garden 21 High Street Debenham. IP14 6QL @swanmaisonetjardin

The Merchant’s Table 10 Church Street Woodbridge IP12 1DH www.themerchantstable.co.uk

The Suffolk Nest www.thesuffolknest.com @ the_suffolk_nest

Woolly Comforts www.woollycomforts.co.uk @woollycomforts

Stockists

fashion emporium

collated

The Guildhall Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9BD www.collatedonline.com

collen & clare 25 Market Place Southwold IP18 6ED www.collenandclare.com

Darcy B

The Hill House Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN www.darcy-b.co.uk Drift

www.driftjewellery.com @drift_jewellery

Fleur 166 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ www.fleuraldeburgh.co.uk

Hug 12 Market Hill Woodbridge IP12 4LP www.huglifestyles.com

Joli 158 High St Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ www.jolisuffolk.com

Moose

20A Market Hill Woodbridge IP12 4LU @mooseonthehill

New Street Market 70 New Street Woodbridge IP12 1DX www.newstreetmarket.com

O&C Butcher 129 High Street Aldeburgh. IP15 5AS www.ocbutcher.co.uk

Ruby and the Angel 66A High Street Debenham IP14 6QP www.rubyandtheangel.co.uk

Ruby Tyger

No 1 The Mews Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN @rubytyger.framlingham

Trulock & Harris Unit 1&2 Ore Trading Est Woodbridge Road Framlingham IP13 9LL www.trulockandharris.co.uk

Pocket 26 Church Street Woodbridge IP12 1DH www.pocketkids.co.uk

Ruby and the Angel 66A High Street

Debenham IP14 6QP www.rubyandtheangel.co.uk

Ruby Tyger

No 1 The Mews Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN @rubytyger.framlingham

Seasonal Gifts

Earsham Street Deli 51 Earsham Street Bungay NR35 1AF and Snape Maltings www.earshamstreetdeli.co.uk

East of Eden

The Old Barn Fromus Square Saxmundham IP17 1DG www.east-of-eden.co.uk

Grange Farm Shop

Grundisburgh Road Hasketon IP13 6HN www.grangefarmshop.co.uk

GRObros www.grosbros.co.uk @grobros_microherbs

Moose

20A Market Hill Woodbridge IP12 4LU @mooseonthehill

Orlando’s 120 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AB www.orlandosaldeburgh.co.uk

Ottie and the Bea 10a Market Hill Framlingham IP13 9AN www.ottieandthebea.com

Scarlett & Mustard Unit C2 Charnwood Industrial Estate Pepper Wash Lane Framlingham IP13 9PT www.scarlettandmustard.co.uk

Wag and Bone

127b High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AR www.wagandbone.dog

Woodbridge Kitchen Company

7 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AA www.woodbridgekitchencompany. co.uk