aboutsuffolk winter 23

Our winter issue of the aboutsuffolk magazine is the perfect cure for banishing the February blues. Inside you will find news on the latest foodie destinations, a warming recipe for chicken soup and dates for your diary that will keep you busy until spring arrives. We also have an amazing new competition (page 32) which could see you forging the way on an exciting blacksmithing course, plus we bring you our in-depth guide to taking time out in Woodbridge (page 36). We also get a comforting hygge at Farmstead Lodges, weave some garden magic with Brampton Willows, find out where chef Maria Elia will be popping up, stoke the fires at Kingdom Forge and take notes at Britten Pears Arts. There are fashionable new styles and homewares to uncover in our emporium pages and an invigorating circular walk for anyone wanting to get out and about. So, pop on the kettle, settle down and enjoy the read.

We hope you enjoy!

Sarah & Kathy

Editorial Kathy Churchill Sales

Sarah Clarke

Designer

Lucy Hart

Silverlace Creative

Images

aboutmedia info@aboutmedia.co.uk

01728 666352

www.aboutmedia.co.uk

lucy@silverlacecreative.co.uk

www.silverlacecreative.co.uk

Rufus Owen Photography www.rufusowen.com

E: rufus@rufusowen.com

About interiors page 24

WIN an Introduction to BlacksmithingCourse worth £170 with KingdomForge Page32

If you would like to sign up to the weekly aboutfram e-newsletter, please subscribe at www.aboutmedia.co.uk/aboutfram

out & about

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

6 Keynote speaker

We talk to Roger Wright, CBE about his instrumental influence on the future of Britten Pears Arts.

12 Out and about A round up of local events.

16 Fashion Fix

New styles for a new season.

20 Health & beauty

Stripping off, lathering up and navigating female cycles.

24 Slowly does it

We discover Farmstead Lodges, a luxurious bolthole with comforting layers of hygge and al fresco baths under Suffolk skies.

30 Get the look

Chic ideas for restyling your home.

32 Competition time

Your chance to win an ‘Introduction to Blacksmithing’ course at Kingdom Forge.

34 about town

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

36 about time

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

42 The Woodbridge Edit

46 Weaving a spell

We explore the twists and turns of Brampton Willows with Louis Champain.

52 Forged in fire

Making sparks fly with contemporary blacksmith, Paul Stoddart of Kingdom Forge.

58 Turf wars

Getting to the grassroots of problematic lawns.

64 Breaking bread

We pull up a chair and chat menus and pop-ups with chef Maria Elia.

52

70 about taste

Bringing you some cheesy lines and whetting your appetite with the latest on new foodie destinations.

72 Chicken, orzo, tomato, lemon and herb soup

A comforting bowl of homemade chicken soup to fight off the winter chills.

74 Hall to Hall

A circular loop from Otley Hall to Helmingham Hall, topped off with a delicious brunch at Martha’s Barn.

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 64 58 74

who’s about

Keynote speaker

who’s about

Charming, affable, and extremely knowledgeable, Roger Wright , CBE is the Chief Executive of Britten Pears Arts. We catch up with him at Snape Maltings to learn more of his vision for this extraordinarily important cultural centre for music and the arts.

Roger arrived at Snape in 2014 to take up his appointment as Chief Executive of Aldeburgh Music after seventeen years as Controller of BBC Radio 3. However, almost immediately, he became a key player in overseeing the purchase of Snape Maltings from Jonny and Alesha Gooderham. Roger then managed a merger in 2020 to ultimately create one overarching organisation, now known as Britten Pears Arts. Although it was a challenging time for Roger and his team, it was also an opportunity to fine tune the retail experience and expand the music programme, and to fulfil the vision

of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears, who were so aware that music had the power to connect people and were passionate about making it accessible to all.

Roger has held this same philosophy throughout his long career within the classical music industry. Originally from Manchester, he was educated at Chetham’s School of Music, a small independent school where everyone was expected to play an instrument and sing in the choir. Roger took up the cello and piano but admits to being more interested in watching cricket at

Old Trafford than practising his scales! He went on to graduate from Royal Holloway College with a Bachelor of Music in 1977 and then, with only a vague notion to go into teaching, stayed on to take up the position of President of the Student Union. The following year, after dashing off a dozen or so optimistic letters to various large organisations, the British Music Information Centre (BMIC) wrote back and offered him a job.

Located on London’s Bond Street, the BMIC was home to tens of thousands of musical scores and recordings of 20th and 21st century British music, and Roger, who was employed as the librarian, found himself at the heart of the music industry in the early eighties. It was a melting pot of musical talent, with composers and musicians

congregating to form new partnerships and create new sounds. Roger was there for eight years, rising up the ranks to manager and finally director, before leaving in 1986 to become the senior producer for the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Three years later, together with his wife Rosie, he moved to Ohio to take up the post of artistic administrator of the Cleveland Orchestra and then, in 1992, they moved to Hamburg where he took up the post of artistic director at Deutsche Grammophon, a classical music record label.

Roger, along with Rosie and their young family, finally returned to London in 1997, when he became Head of Classical Music for the BBC before taking on the role of Controller of BBC Radio 3, a position he held for the next seventeen years, also becoming

who’s about

who’s about

director of the BBC Proms in 2007. Like Britten and Pears, Roger is passionate about making classical music more accessible to the masses, wanting to de-robe some of its dustier layers and make it relevant, engaging and contemporary. He was instrumental in bringing this vision to life with the programming of the hugely successful Doctor Who BBC Proms and the Comedy Proms hosted by Tim Minchin, and it is this spirit of inclusivity that he now brings to Snape.

Britten Pears Arts now has an amazing and varied musical programme that engages with top class composers and musicians as well as reaching out to schools, families and young artists, and it also runs a series of community workshops for adults living with Parkinson’s and Dementia, using the

power of music to help improve both their physical and emotional wellbeing. The Young Artist Programme, originally set up by Britten and Pears in 1972, is still at the heart of all of this, and continues to offer emerging young artists the opportunity to be mentored by some of the world’s finest performers, musicians and teachers. With a black book that reads like an A-Z of who’s who in the classical music industry, Roger has the ability, and charisma, to welcome an extraordinary wealth of talent to perform at Snape Maltings, and I would encourage anyone new to classical, jazz or contemporary music to book a seat. Music is the sound track to our lives and Britten Pears Arts is offering us the chance to add some exciting new albums to our collection.

www.brittenpearsarts.org

out & about

February

11th-19th: Half term fun

Wrap up and head outdoors to National Trust Dunwich Heath for some family fun.

11th-19th: Nicola Coe Exhibition

Exhibition of artworks made in response to the nesting birds of Foxburrow Nature Reserve. Foxburrow Farm

11th-19th: Fun on the Farm

Meet the animals, craft activities, playgrounds and cafe. Easton Farm Park

13th:

Folk at the Froize Supper and urban folk music from The Jeremiahs. The Froize

16th:

Saving forests and wildlife around the world

A talk by the World Land Trust. Woodbridge Community Hall

23rd: Othello

An extraordinary new production of Shakespeare’s most enduring tragedy. NTLive The Riverside

23rd: Spring Wreath Workshop With Hall Lane Flowers. Suffolk Sense, Wickham Market

28th-8th: Loop

An exhibition of paintings and prints by Amanda Edgcombe. The Cut, Halesworth Open Tues-Sat

Mar:

3rd-5th:

Aldeburgh Literary Festival

A wide range of talks to interest, inform, challenge and amuse.

4th: Mini Market

Arts and Crafts.

Suffolk Sense, Wickham Market

4th: Richard Durrant: The No 26 Bus to Paraguay

How a young boy took the No 26 bus to his first guitar lesson and ended up as an honoured guest in Paraguay. The Cut

10th: Horizontal Landscapes

Exhibition showcasing the best of East Anglian landscape painting. Gallery East

11th-12th: Wedding Open Weekend

Jimmy’s Farm shows you what they have to offer for your magical day.

13th-18th: Art Exhibition

Painting and printmaking by three local artists.

Suffolk Sense, Wickham Market

16th - 19th May

Medieval Miracles

Reigniting the region’s buzzing 15th century theatre scene. Eastern Angles

19th: The Chevalier

The story of the Black composer, virtuoso violinist and friend of Mozart.

Snape Maltings Concert Hall

21st-25th: The Verdict

The powerful bestselling courtroom thriller starring Jason Merrells. The New Wolsey

25th-26th: Weekend Art Studio Sale

Artist Samantha Barnes opens her garden studio in central Woodbridge. www.samanthabarnes.com

Apr:

1st: Gordon Buchanan: 30 Years in the Wild

Looking back at 30 years of being a wildlife presenter and filmmaker. Ipswich Corn Exchange

1st: Mini Market Arts and Crafts.

Suffolk Sense, Wickham Market

1st: St John Passion

A dramatic and moving musical depiction of Bach’s Easter story. Framlingham College

1st-14th: Spring Exhibition

Fourteen local artists combine with ceramics, sculpture and artwork. The Old Theatre, Framlingham

4th: Sounds of Spring

An early morning walk. RSPB Minsmere - 7.30am

4th-10th: Converge

Pop up shop of designers, makers and artists. 10 Church St. Framlingham

5th-6th: Easter Weekend at Snape Maltings

Craft sessions, music and art for all the family.

13th-16th: INK Festival

A weekend of play, comedy, radio, art, poetry, music, children’s programmes, talks, workshops, short new films and much more.

15th: FolkEast Presents…

The Young ‘Uns

Life-affirming folk songs with honest storytelling, beautiful lyrics and warm harmonies. Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall

15th: Gaspard the Fox

A musical version of the muchloved modern classic, narrated by the author with beautiful live illustrations.

Britten Studio, Snape Maltings

21st-22nd: Beauty and the Beast

The Marwyn School of Dancing brings this magical tale to life.

Eastern Angles

22nd: Il viaggio a Reims

ETO presents Rossini’s comic masterpiece in a new production from Valentina Ceschi.

Snape Maltings Concert Hall

29th-1st May: Art for Cure

An amazing display of art and sculpture.

Helmingham Hall and Gardens.

SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARY • 7PM • £15

DEBENHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE

FRIDAY 28TH APRIL • 7.30PM • £14

JOHN PEEL CENTRE - STOWMARKET

TICKETS: WWW.HONEYANDTHEBEAR.CO.UK

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS TOBY SHAER & EVAN CARSON

ORIGINAL FOLK & ROOTS MUSIC INSPIRED BY SUFFOLK

Fashion fix

4. GM T shirt collated £29

5. Weekend bag East of Eden £85

6. Stripy jumper Ichi @ Fleur £39.99

1. Duffel Bag Baggage @ Drab Ltd £65

2. Chore jacket Blackshore Coastal Clothing £225

3. Blundstone boots collen & clare £170

Stockists on page 80

7. Indian patchwork jacket Focus Organic Various available

8. Stretch chinos Darcy B £115

9. RM Williams Menswear collection O&C Butcher

10. New season Ruby Tyger

11. Merino fairisle sweater Julie Phipps £175

12. Lira Bridal Joan Suffolk Wedding Dress Exchange £900

13. Wayuu Pom Pom bag Matisa Market £92

Rhythm of life

Rose Constantine Smith is a registered AfN nutritionist specialising in women’s health and hormones who helps women navigate the many obstacles of female health. She uses menstrual cycle charting, diet, and lifestyle analysis to support women of all ages who are looking for advice on the following:

• PCOS, PMS and irregular, heavy or painful periods

• Hormonal imbalance

• Weight management

• IBS and bloating

• Fertility and pre or postnatal health

• Menopausal health

She also offers Menstrual Cycle Coaching, either through one-to-one consultation or in small group coaching sessions – next one 3rd April.

For more information take a look online and follow on Instagram @the.womensnutritionist.

www.roseconstantinesmith.co.uk

Feeling perky!

Cold-water swimming is becoming increasingly popular, and after the success of Whim Hoff’s recent ‘Feel the Freeze’, more and more people are stripping off and braving an icy dip. The perks are well documented. It improves cardiovascular health and circulation, boosts your immune system, gives your metabolism a kickstart, is

great exercise and, most importantly, makes you feel fantastic! For anyone looking to give it a go, it is highly recommended to join a group, not only for safety and advice, but also for the camaraderie and fun. The Bluetits Chill Swimmers have groups in Southwold, Thorpeness and Shingle Street – just go to the website to find your flock and take the plunge.

www.thebluetits.co

Take a pun - t

Anatomicals is a funky bath and body company on a mission to ban boring from the bathroom and put a smile on your face. Their brightly coloured packaging shouts ‘fun’ and the brilliant tongue-in-cheek product names will soon have you chuckling over your beauty regime.

We just love the sound of their ‘puffy the eye bag slayer’, the ‘great British flake off body scrub’, ‘cruisin’ for a snoozin’ sleep balm’ and ‘scrub tropicana body scrub’. Plus, all their products are 100% cruelty-free and start from just £3.50. So, grab yourself a ‘get outta my face, dirtball face scrub’ and a ‘sud the lot of you body cleanser’ and give yourself a laugh!

Available at Framlingham Pharmacy.

All of a lather

Based by Beccles, Civil Block Microsoapery produces a range of small batch soaps by hand using a process inspired by the traditional British Soapery from over 200 years ago. Synthetic free, they are made using only raw base oils and plant extracts, and we love the branding and nostalgic addition of a rope to some of the blocks. With great names such as Mental Block (Nettle + Lemongrass), Breeze Block (Black Pepper + Pumice) and the fragrance-free Bear Block (Salted Porridge), each Block is cured for a minimum of six weeks and comes packaged in recycled British Card boxes made on site.

So don’t be a blockhead, check out their website and lather up with one of these brilliant small batch, top notch soaps.

www.civilblock.co.uk

Cost £150 | Vouchers available.

Slowly does it about interiors

Nestled in the Deben Valley, Farmstead Lodges is a luxurious boutique bolthole that invites you to light the wood burner and wrap yourself in its comforting layers of hygge, and where long lazy breakfasts and al fresco baths under the stars are the order of the day.

Designed as a ‘back to nature’ retreat, the eight luxury self-catering lodges were opened in 2022 by Ali and Sian Kerr, who own the neighbouring wedding venue, Easton Grange. The idea behind the concept was to create an oasis of calm in the heart of Suffolk that quietly reflects the beauty of the surrounding countryside. They have been built by local craftsmen using sustainable materials, each one unique, but all sharing the same high quality finish and a feeling of sumptuous luxury, with textured linens, woollen blankets, sheepskin rugs and deep velvet sofas. Built on former farmland, the one and two-bedroom wooden lodges are

carefully positioned for optimum privacy and come the spring, will be surrounded by wildflower meadows planted with ox-eye daisies, cornflowers, field poppies and red campion.

As soon as you step up to the porch, a feeling of calm envelops you. The lodges have been built from reclaimed scaffold boards giving them an authentic rustic charm, and the use of natural materials throughout is very soothing and restful. The main living area is open plan and the fully fitted kitchen is neatly divided off by a long work bench topped with a poured concrete work surface.

Shelves are stacked with a mix of handmade plates and bowls, gleaming glasses lined up next to a stack of terracotta pots and planters potted with a mix of herbs. A coffee machine from eco-friendly brand Grind sits alongside vintage finds such as a ceramic jelly mould, the Dualit toaster reflects an earthenware pot stuffed with cooking utensils, and copper saucepans hang above the stylish range cooker.

This wonderful mix of the old and the new has been cleverly executed by Suffolk interior designer Angie Ashby who worked with local furniture makers, upholsterers, and decorators to create the chic rustic look and feel of the lodges. The gorgeous velvet sofas are made by NJB Upholsterers, a father and son team based in Debenham, the wood burners are from The Fireplace in

Framlingham, and the lustrous sheepskins that adorn the beds are from Woolly Comforts who run their own flock near Eye. The vintage treasures that give each lodge its own unique twist have been lovingly sourced from local antique shops and markets, including Marlesford Mill, in da cottage, Gasworks Reclaim, The Boule-in and Swan House and Garden, and perfectly complement the organic designs of sustainable brands such as Soho Home, Made to Last and Fritz Fryer.

The wonderfully sensual bedrooms immediately transport you to the Swiss Alps, the beautiful bedlinen from luxury brand, Piglet in Bed, is topped with soft fur throws and organic blankets, and the soft lighting and thick hessian curtains all add to the après ski atmosphere. In the ensuite

about interiors

bathrooms, the showers are encased in corrugated steel, which gives a stylish nod to the agricultural heritage of the lodges, and in some of the bedrooms, huge copper tubs welcome you to sink down for a long soak and relax into a slower pace of living. Out on the deck, golden grasses shimmer in vintage galvanised planters and, tucked in the corner behind a floor length curtain, you discover another copper bath where you can opt to take a dip under the glorious Suffolk skies. Farmstead Lodges was originally set up as accommodation for wedding guests using Easton Grange, but Ali and Sian have decided that the lodges are far too special and can now be booked by anyone wishing to explore this idyllic corner of Suffolk.

Guests are treated to a welcome basket which includes a freshly baked sourdough

loaf from Wakelyns Bakery, Bungay Butter, Havensfield Free Range Eggs, and a batch of homemade brownies, as well as the basics such as tea, coffee, milk and olive oil. If you plan to hunker down with tea and toast in front of the wood burner, a stack of logs will keep the home fires burning, but for those looking to stretch their legs in search of a decent pint and a Sunday roast, the Easton White Horse and Kettleburgh Chequers are both within walking distance.

With the rise in popularity of the staycation, a weekend at Farmstead Lodges might be just the thing for an uncomplicated, restful and rejuvenating break - and the best thing: your four-legged friend can come too!

www.farmsteadlodges.co.uk

about interiors

Get the look

1. Chic console East of Eden £180

2. Feathers & Fellows candle New Street Market £16

3. Black dot coat rack Hyrst £55

4. Dramatic tiles Just Tiles

5. Framed lino print Jem Silly £105

6. Woollen blanket Lark Interiors £65

7. Glazed jars Marlesford Mill £28

8. Beautiful lampshade Narwhal Interiors Similar available

9. Heart-shaped dish Old Brewhouse Pottery £30

10. Interior inspiration Snape Maltings

11. Eco cleaning products Vida Haus

12. Teal blue glass bowls No1EastLane @ Swan House From £35

13. Luxury sheepskins Woolly Comforts From £65

Stockists on page 79

Competition!

Win an Introduction to Blacksmithing Course worth £170 with Kingdom Forge

Forgingskills Makeabottle opener Traditional craft

We are delighted to have teamed up with Kingdom Forge to offer one lucky reader the chance to win an Introduction to Blacksmithing Course. This is a fantastic day which allows you to experience the life of a modern blacksmith at their unique forge in the heart of Suffolk. You will learn the craft of blacksmithing, starting with a look at the common tools used by smiths and the techniques of the trade. You'll be taught how this traditional craft uses the heat of the forge to bend metal and create unique shapes, and you will learn how flames can be your friend.

By the end of the day, you will have produced a variety of ironwork - keyrings, Viking style knives, fire pokers and bottle openers - all made by your own hands and ready to take home!

www.kingdomforge.co.uk

For your chance of winning this fabulous prize, please answer the following question correctly:

Q: Name one of things you can expect to make on the day.

Send your answer to prize@aboutfram. com quoting Kingdom Forge in the subject header.

The competition closes at 23.59 hours on 30th April 2023.

Calling Midsummer musicians

about town

First Light has just announced the dates of its summer solstice festival, which will once again be held on Lowestoft beach, from Saturday 17th to Sunday 18th June. Building on the success of last year’s New Dawn stage, which featured 22 emerging musical talents aged 14-25 from Suffolk and Norfolk, the festival is once again inviting young musicians to apply to play over the solstice weekend.

Plus, new for 2023, the festival will also feature a second open call-out, Playbreak, that offers musicians working, living and gigging in Lowestoft the chance to play a set in front of a home crowd under the midsummer sun.

Both callouts will be judged by panels of leading industry experts, including representatives of BBC Introducing, Wild Paths, and Access Community College, with headline slots on the main Sunlight stage also up for grabs.

Applications to New Dawn and Playbreak are now open – the deadline to apply is Monday 20th February. Visit www. firstlightlowestoft.com/get-involved for more details.

Pounds for hounds

Suffolk Libraries has launched its largest ever fundraising campaign - PAWS-itivity!

PAWS-itivity will involve 45 dog sculptures featuring designs individually created by local artists in each of Suffolk’s libraries this summer. Following a tour of Suffolk at a number of events including the Suffolk Show, the dog sculptures will then set up home and be on display at the participating libraries, before being auctioned off at Trinity Park in September.

The PAWS-itivity art sculpture event is raising money to support Suffolk Libraries’ work at the heart of the community which includes nurturing literacy and improving health and wellbeing.

Both local artists and businesses interested in sponsoring are encouraged to get in touch. www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/whatson/annual-events/paws-itivity

Take her word for it

Local children’s artist, Kate Rolfe, has had quite the year. As well as graduating in her Masters, she was also runner-up to the Sebastian Walker prize, came second in both the Batsford Prize for Illustration and the prize for Children’s Illustration, had two of her upcoming books chosen for the Macmillan Prize and was named V&A Student Illustrator of the Year. Most recently, Kate was the winner of the prestigious

A leading light

Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, one of Suffolk’s leading contemporary brasseries, has just had a major refurbishment, led by Geraldine Milsom herself. The stylish new restaurant has been revitalised with intimate Italian lighting, rows of warm wooden tables and sleek banquette seating.

The new design ensures that the history and aesthetics of this stunning Georgian building have been retained whilst managing to inject an exciting new look for the years ahead. The restaurant is flooded with natural light during the day and moodily lit by low hanging glass-pendant lights in the evening.

Geraldine has also created a beautifully

World Illustration Award 2022 for her work, Navigating Dyslexia, inspired by her own life experiences, which include difficulties in her childhood stemming from undiagnosed neurodivergence – a broad stroke term for people who suffer from autism, dyslexia, and dyspraxia.

Kate sensitively weaves her own struggles into her writing and artwork, creating stories that really resonate with her young audience. “I think it is hugely valuable for young readers to read engaging and age-appropriate, yet honest, accounts about something they (or their peers) may be experiencing. I hope that my childlike imagination, coupled with a more mature perspective on emotional issues, will create literature that communicates well and provides a safe pair of hands to deliver those stories.”

Kate’s prints are for sale via her website www.katerolfe.com

designed boutique bar; elegantly decked out with brass knuckle embellishments, stainless steel and an antique glass backdrop. As for the art, you’ll find a wonderful local line-up, including Elizabeth Morris and Jason Gathorne-Hardy.

Grab a spot on the upper level for the best view of the action in the open kitchen. www.milsomhotels.com/kesgrave-hall

about time in ...

Woodbridge

Nestled by the banks of the Deben estuary, the market town of Woodbridge is undoubtedly one of the jewels in Suffolk’s crown. Along the Thoroughfare and pretty streets that lead off it, you will find a wide range of independent boutiques, cafes, restaurants and pubs. With its open spaces, inviting alleyways and urban footpaths criss-crossing its rich history, be sure to put aside a whole day in order to uncover all its gems.

time to explore!

With plenty of green spaces and playgrounds, an independent cinema, leisure centre and a boating lake, Woodbridge is a great day out for all the family, but a trip to this vibrant town wouldn’t be complete without a walk along the river. Whether you choose to start in Melton and take the short walk along the river bank, stopping off for a highly recommended bite to eat at the Deben Cafe Bar on HMS Vale, or starting in town, be sure to take in the Tide Mill, listed as among the first tidemills in the country and one of only a handful in the world still producing flour on a regular basis.

Take a pause at Whisstocks Quay, with its lovely open square, home to pizza restaurant The Woodyard, and The Boathouse, both great places to eat. Pop your head around the door at the Longshed where you can see a replica of the Sutton Hoo royal burial ship under construction, before taking in some history at Woodbridge Museum

Woodbridge is home to Deben Rowing Club and cradled on the banks of the river just alongside it is ‘The Sisters’ sculpture, which celebrates the lives of Molly and Ethel Everson who, along with their brothers Cyril and Bert, once managed Woodbridge boatyard. End your stroll with a refreshing cuppa at The Tea Hut which sits in full view of the model boat pond, where you will often see folk of all ages sailing their vessels.

The world, or should we say, Woodbridge, is your oyster when it comes to eating out!

Whether you’re after fine dining, a quick bite to eat, or something a little different, here are some top recommendations:

The Bull Hotel – sumptuous food with weeklychanging, seasonally inspired menu, served in Georgian surroundings. Lovely bar too.

Spice Bar at The Table – A Woodbridge institution, expect a modern twist on some classic authentic Southeast Asian food. So too is The Galley, run by Ugur Vata, muchloved restauranteur who brings an authentic taste of ‘The Med’ to the town.

1975 Wine Bar – with monthly Single Socials, and regular themed nights, this is the hottest spot in town.

Wokit – The newest kid on the block, visit Wokit if you’re feeling peckish and fancy putting together your own noodle nosh!

If it’s ales you’re after, you’ll be hard pushed to beat The King’s Head or The Anchor, but if tea and cake is more your thing, you are spoilt for choice! There are over a dozen cafes in walking distance of the centre of town.

for a browse!

Woodbridge is home to a wonderful range of independent shops. Here are some of our latest finds.

4. Pink Pumps Gabor @ Ives £95

5. Screen printed tea towels The Merchant’s Table £15

6. Seasonal delights Moose

1. SLF Porta suit Anna Blazer £115 Wide Pant £79

2. Beautiful bedlinen Barretts of Woodbridge

3. Cosy knits HUG Lifestyles

Stockists on page 80

7. Gorgeous homewares New Street Market

8. Soft linen teddy Pocket £17.25

9. Fine wines Saltpeter Wines

10. Orange dog bed The Good Dogg From £85.95

11. Mason Cash bowls Woodbridge Kitchen Shop From £15

12. Best sellers Woodbridge Books

13. The Shorty locker Mustard Made @ Vanil £139

Taking a turn, or two…

If you wander up Church St, you’ll see Turn Lane on the left where, after a few paces, you’ll find The Friends Meeting House, built in 1678 and now a private residence. The adjoining graveyard is now a designated Quiet Place in which to spend a few minutes in peace. Turning back up Church St, you have the most magnificent view of the ancient plane tree at the gates to the parish church of St. Mary. Finish up on the Market Hill, at its centre, The Shire Hall, built as a single storey building in 1575 by Thomas Seckford.

A Workshop in Hasketon

Try your hand at pottery, mosaics, watercolours and more at EjaRt Creative’s lofty converted barn at Grange Farm, Hasketon, just outside Woodbridge. All details on their website: www.ejartcreative.co.uk

Spotting the birdie

The River Deben provides a great habitat for breeding and migrant birds. The extensive mudflats and salt marsh support 70 species, including cormorants, oystercatchers and curlews and boasts one of the most significant overwintering populations of avocets in the UK as well as a large population of redshanks.

A round of golf

There was a time when you had to be a member of a club before you could drive a ball into the rough, or, if luck were on your side, celebrate your holein-one with a round at the bar. These days, clubs welcome non-members and Woodbridge has three of them on its doorstep: Woodbridge Golf Club, Ufford Park and Seckford Golf Club. If you’re not up for the long walk in the fresh air, book in for a session at Suffolk’s only two-tier driving range at Ufford Park, voted in the Top 10 Driving Ranges in Britain by Today’s Golfer Magazine.

Weaving a spell

Brampton Willows has been constructing handcrafted willow fencing, sculptures and structures across the gardens of Suffolk and Norfolk for almost 40 years. We talk to owner, Louis Champain, of award-winning garden design and landscaping business Champain Landscapes, to find out what magic he intends to weave in 2023.

Brampton Willows was originally founded by Robert Yates, a chartered surveyor who returned to Suffolk to run his family farm just outside Halesworth. A forward-thinking man, Robert decided to plant several acres of unproductive marshy land with willow beds, known as osiers, which he harvested and sold to a local basket maker. Before long, Robert began to experiment with weaving the willow rods himself and in 1988, he set up the company, specialising in creating bespoke willow fencing and one-off designs. A skilled craftsman, his work was highly sought after

and he undertook a variety of interesting projects, including weaving huge wave-like cross-country jumps at both Burghley and Badminton Horse Trials.

Louis bought the business off Robert in 2019, having worked with him previously on several bespoke garden designs with his company Champain Landscapes. As well as retaining the contract to use the willow harvested from the original 18-acre site, Louis also inherited a very skilled workforce including Darren Jordan, who, with 17 years’

experience, has become an invaluable right-hand man. “Being able to maintain the ethos of a sustainable, local business with a low carbon footprint is important to all of us at Brampton Willows and having Darren’s extensive knowledge and skill has been invaluable.” This inherent understanding of the nature and versatility of the willow has allowed Louis to build the beautiful strong garden structures and contemporary designs that Brampton Willows is renowned for.

There are several varieties of willow favoured for weaving and Brampton Willows uses the dramatically named Noire de Villaine, a fast-growing French basketry willow with wonderful glossy unbranched olive-brown rods, and Black Maul, a versatile willow with strong, even rods. Willow has a one-year growing cycle and is harvested between

November and April, the 6-8 foot rods being coppiced at ground level and then collected into bolts. This freshly cut ‘green’ willow can be used straightaway, but the bolts can also be stored for several months and just need soaking in water troughs for up to ten days to ensure they have regained their pliancy and suppleness before being woven into fences or garden structures.

Louis has ambitious plans for the company, which now works in close collaboration with his other business, Champain Landscapes, together transforming the gardens of many homes across East Anglia. Last year, alongside designer Frederic Whyte, the team won a Silver Medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for ‘The Stitchers’ Garden’

which was commissioned by Fine Cell, a local charity that teaches prisoners needlework to

about the land

nurture and encourage their self-worth and independence. The main feature of the garden was a simple structure constructed from steel and woven willow panels that replicated the exact dimensions of a prison cell. “It was an amazing experience for all of us and allowed us to really push ourselves and come up with fresh contemporary designs that were relevant to the overall ethos of the garden, and it is this concept that we want to convey in all our future designs.”

Brampton Willows already has a reputation for outstanding craftmanship, and all of their fences and structures are woven on site as one continuous piece. Not only does this give them a seamless finish, it also allows for the designs to evolve, as they can be moulded to fit every dip and turn of the natural landscape. Their signature weave is also

unique as it is more compacted, the bands of willow being compressed at regular intervals, resulting in a high-quality fence or structure that is ultimately stronger and more durable than a standard willow fence and should easily last 15-20 years.

Willow weaving is an ancient craft, and it is therefore so refreshing to see the tradition being kept alive with so much integrity and passion. The quality of their work is exceptional, and Louis is looking forward to working on more bespoke sculptural designs and structures this year. Designs that will stretch the imagination and skill of his team, as they need to work in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings of their setting - but always with a defining contemporary twist.

www.bramptonwillows.com

about

design

Forged in fire

The ringing tone of hammer on anvil is one that resonates deep within the soul, as blacksmithing is an ancient craft that would once have been at the heart of every community. We visit Kingdom Forge to meet Paul Stoddart and find out why he is making sparks fly.

Paul set up Kingdom Forge in 2015 after graduating from the National School of Blacksmithing in Herefordshire. Only eighteen, he was already fired up about putting his stamp on this traditional craft, and passionate about making blacksmithing relevant to his generation, encouraging others to experiment with working with fire. From the outset, Paul worked hard to ensure that Kingdom Forge gained a reputation for quality metalwork, and he was soon taking bespoke commissions for a range of projects including iron gates, arches, kitchen tables, staircases, and even intricate garden sculptures. Within two years, he had the

opportunity to expand the workshop, and his forge, which is based on a farm in Brundish, is now the largest industrial forge in East Anglia.

Never one to stand still, in 2020 Paul decided to open a brewery next to the forge, and together with friend Peter Runnacres, produces a range of ciders under the brand, Suffolk Village Ciders. “There has always been a long association with blacksmithing and cider, so I liked the idea of bringing that connection back to life. The apples come from the orchard behind the workshop and we now stock a few of the local pubs, such

as Sibton White Horse, The Station, and Sweffling White Horse. I also built a bar and Kingdom Forge is the only licenced forge in the UK.” Paul hosts regular events, firing up the forge for demonstrations, booking live bands and getting Avi from ‘Bagel or Beigel’ to run the street food.

By inviting people to visit the forge, Paul soon realised that there was a genuine interest and curiosity for blacksmithing, so he decided to set up his own Introduction to Blacksmithing courses. It was an immediate success and he now teaches upwards of 450 students a year and offers Axe Making and Couples Rose Making workshops as well. “We get such a varied cross-section of people at these workshops and it is so rewarding to see them all connect with the fire and understand how to use the heat to

work the iron. Some of my students have been inspired by their time here and over the years about a dozen has gone on to be accepted at the National School of Blacksmithing, which is just fantastic.”

Paul’s enthusiasm for blacksmithing is infectious, and the fact that he looks like a modern-day Viking – all muscle, beard, and Celtic red hair – helps too! He is genuinely passionate about engaging with others and the forge has become a haven for traditional craftsmen looking for advice or time working with the flame. These include Leszek Sikon, a qualified bladesmith who helps with some of the workshops; Toby and Nathan, both local knifemakers; and Josh and Edward, young apprentices drawn to the forge to explore their creativity and learn new skills. “My door is always open. I was so grateful

for the help I received from Richard Ames, who owns the building we rent, and want to make sure Kingdom Forge is a place where people can drop by for advice or camaraderie.”

It is this openness that led to Paul being officially employed by the Royal Opera House (ROH) as one of their armourers. “The Head of Special Effects for Paramount came on one of my courses and he asked if I would be interested in helping forge some props needed for a film. Of course, I said yes, and we transported one of the forges to London so that I could work on set. It was a great experience – it’s not every day you practise a sword fight with Mark Whalberg! Since then, I have worked on many other productions and last year, the ROH asked me to work in the armoury department to ensure the

authenticity of the swords and other weaponry they use on stage.” Paul is also a member of the Worshipful Company of Cutlers, one of the most ancient of the City of London livery companies, and was awarded the Freedom of the City of London for his service to teaching.

Paul is inspired by the work and accomplishments of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, admiring his ‘can do’ attitude and innovative thinking. Worthy footsteps in which to follow, but it is clear that Paul is forging his own path, inspiring others and leading the way to help rekindle this most ancient of traditional trades.

For more details of the courses visit the website www.kingdomforge.co.uk

As the garden starts to stir after its winter’s sleep, so too does your lawn and so this is the time to get back to grass roots and sort out any problems.

Turf wars

Ease into early spring by giving your lawn its first mow with the lawnmower on a high setting so that just cut the tips off the blades. This will encourage early growth whilst still protecting the roots from any surprise frosts. It also allows you to check the condition of your lawn and to tackle some of these common issues:

Weeds:

Grab a trowel and dig out larger weeds such as dandelion, docks, greater plantain and thistles, making sure you get all of the roots and runners. If you have a severe infestation, then spot use of a weedkiller is recommended, or, if you are after a natural remedy, apple cider vinegar mixed with water does the trick.

Moss:

Too much moss can make your lawn feel wet and spongy. Apply a reputable moss killer to

the worse effected patches and then wait until the moss has died back and blackened. Now you can rake it out by hand, or, if you have a widespread problem hire an automated scarifier.

Bare patches:

Scarifying can leave bare patches, as can a well-walked path during the wetter winter months. The best solution is to overseed these, making sure you choose the correct grass seed for your garden. Simply scuff up the surface with a rake, scatter over the seed and water regularly.

Continue to mow on a high setting, straighten your edges and push in some wildflower plugs under trees or in a sheltered corner so you can delight in small patches of colour that will also encourage pollinators to visit your home turf.

about gardens

Great expectations

In the depths of February, it is all too easy to believe that your garden will never come back to life, but don’t be fooled as just below the surface, delicate new life is starting to unfurl. Tender shoots will be reaching for the light, some just peeping through the soil, their brilliant green tips cloaked by the dark dank earth. If a cold snap is forecast, then they are best left gently covered with leaves so rather than getting stuck into tidying your borders, warm up by dividing clumps of herbaceous perennials and cutting back deciduous ornamental grasses such as Miscanthus.

March brings with it an expectancy of spring and although you need to be careful of late frosts, it’s time to get busy and to reacquaint yourself with the garden’s structure and form. Prune and tie in both climbing and shrub roses, cut back late-summer and autumn

Tales from the potting shed

February

Prune winter-flowering shrubs

Divide snowdrops

Cut back perennials and grasses

flowering clematis, and give everything a good mulch. Not only does this help new growth, it also helps keep down the weeds. And, best of all, pick a sunny day and give the lawn a mow – nothing shouts ‘SPRING’ louder than the smell of freshly cut grass!

With its promise of sunshine and showers, April is a delightful time to be in the garden. The fresh green foliage of the trees adds a brilliance to the filtered sunlight, and everything feels poised, ready to burst into full flower. Beds are already filling with colour so take time to delight in the beauty of a drift of tulips, the scent of hyacinths that only last year graced your Christmas table, the shortlived lilac blossom that perfumes the evening air, and the little forget-me-nots that brighten the borders with their tiny blue blooms.

March

Mulch beds

Prune climbing and shrub roses

Mow the grass

April

Outdoor sow vegetables

Sow hardy annuals

Pressure wash benches

about gardens

Food for thought

How did the farm shop start?

Will & Annabel Longe are the inspiration behind Grange Farm Shop in Hasketon, a family-run affair that has seen many changes over the decades. We invited Will to tell us more about their loveaffair with the business….

When did your working relationship with Grange Farm start?

My parents took on the farm 50 years ago and from an early age I worked on the farm every school holiday, picking apples, pruning fruit trees, and helping out in the shop. I wasn’t paid much but still remember an Easter holiday spent digging out bramble roots to finally save up the £12.49 required to buy a Walkman! Today, it’s a great joy to see our daughter Matilda and son Albert helping out and hopefully that will continue for many years to come.

Grange Farm has been a fruit farm for a very long time and some of our oldest buildings date back to the mid-1700s. By the 1940s, the farm was selling fruit and veg in London. However, in 1953, the then owner, Mrs Tile, and her manager, Arthur Hubbard, realised that there was a greater need on their doorstep and opened the shop. This year celebrates 70 years in business, which is something to be very proud of!

When did you take on the business and why?

Annabel and I took on the business in 2019, having moved the family back from London to be nearer my

parents who were approaching their eighties and wanting to step back from the running of the farm. With two young children, we also wanted to escape London’s busyness and set down our roots in the countryside. It was a steep learning curve for us both because we had no relevant business experience. From 1998-2014, I worked for the HALO Trust conducting humanitarian landmine clearance and bomb disposal in countries that had suffered conflict, including Libya, Afghanistan and DRC. Annabel had also enjoyed a rich and varied career, amongst other things, working for Warner Brothers Records, as an interior designer, and living and working in Romania.

For us, Grange Farm Shop is all about bringing people together, cooking and sharing food makes us human. Our old family motto is “Without food and wine, love grows cold” and actually, as corny as it may sound, it sums up our ethos. We source and promote real food, quality food, food with provenance, food grown with the environment in mind.

With the cost-of-living crisis seemingly here to stay for some time, how can you compete with the big supermarkets?

Our philosophy is to eat less but better, shop less but better. We would rather our customers buy some of our locally reared meat once per week and eat well. We are proud of our producers and their food. 90% of our expenditure goes back into an economy within a 30-mile radius of our shop, so shopping at Grange Farm puts money in local people’s pockets and that is a far better way to get out of the cost-of-living crisis than shopping in supermarkets, or the ‘money hoovers’ as we call them!

Do you have any new plans for the farm?

Our region has such a rich growing history that we want to celebrate and showcase it. Our farm changed radically in ‘98/99 when the old orchards were grubbed up and replaced by arable farming. We have the opportunity to replant and open our land up for access: to connect people to food and the landscape it’s grown in. We now have a path linking the farm to footpaths that lead to Fynn Valley, the Deben and Woodbridge and we’ve planted several fruit and nut trees and have beehives, creating a rich environment for nature and the public. A local charity has started running a forest school for young people struggling in mainstream

education in our woods, and we’re working hard on a foodie event list for 2023.

What does the future hold for Grange Farm Shop?

So much! We’ve got a fabulous team here, and love combining with our neighbouring businesses on site – A Passion for Seafood, Barn Café, EJaRt Creative and Richard Rush Antiques - to host events, something we’ll be doing more of in 2023. Above all, we’ll continue to strive to make this a better business, for our customers, for the local community and for Mother Nature too. It’s an allconsuming passion for us and we’re in it for the long-term!

Breaking bread

Influenced by her Greek Cypriot heritage, chef Maria Elia’s recipes are full of rich Mediterranean flavours layered with subtle hints of Middle Eastern spice. We pull up a chair at her dining table to find out where she will be popping up across Suffolk this year.

Many of you might recognise Maria from the popular cooking shows of the nineties such as Great Food Live, Saturday Cooks, Ready Steady Cook and Market Kitchen, where she regularly shared chopping boards with the likes of Gino D’Acampo and Anthony Worrall Thompson. Passionate about cooking from a very early age, Maria grew up in her parent’s restaurant in Richmond, and even as a very small child was given the responsibility of chief potato riddler. “Even now, the smell of peeled potatoes can transport me back there, and I can still feel the raw energy and excitement of being in a busy working kitchen.” Her father is Greek Cypriot and

many of her dishes have been inspired by his traditional cooking and an instinctive connection with the flavours of her culinary heritage.

With busy working parents, Maria would often be the one to prepare supper for the family, inventing recipes from ingredients left in the fridge, and this drive to provide food for the table led her to enrol on a five-year apprenticeship with Trusthouse Forte. After graduating, Maria worked at a newly opened restaurant in Dorset before taking to the high seas, working as a chef on private luxury yachts that took her all around

about food

the world. “This was an amazing experience, we worked hard and played hard, and I loved the challenge of having to design menus based on whatever was available in the local markets, or the fresh fish, lobster or octopus the fishermen would hold up as they came alongside.”

As tempting as this globe-trotting lifestyle was, the restaurant scene in London was hotting up and Maria returned to work at Stephen Terry’s Coast before moving on to the kitchens of Delfina, a cool canteen for resident artists in London’s up and coming Bermondsey Street. “During this time, I was fortunate enough to spend a season in Spain, cooking with culinary maestro Ferran Adrià at El Bulli and Elena Arzack in San Sebastian. It was incredible and when I returned to Delfina, I was offered the position of head chef and relished the

chance to experiment with my own flavours and menu ideas.” Maria stayed for ten years, overseeing its expansion and running a busy and highly successful restaurant and event venue, regularly cooking for 100 covers in the à la carte restaurant or catering for up to 500 guests at one of the exhibition previews.

Maria’s career continued to blossom, and as well as her regular TV appearances, she opened The Whitechapel Gallery Dining Room and Café as head chef – receiving two AA Rosettes, a mention in the Michelin guide, and rave reviews from AA Gill and Giles Coren – and then Jimmy’s Restaurant at the Landing Resort and Spa in South Lake Tahoe, California, which quickly became a favourite haunt for the rich and famous of Beverly Hills. She also travelled extensively, cooking her way across Rwanda, Arizona, Tuscany and Cannes, where she ran an

exclusive pop-up at the Lions Festival, and returning to Cyprus to cook with her father, who ran a taverna in the Troodos mountains, finally allowing herself to slow a little and reconnect with the flavours of her childhood.

Now living in Suffolk, Maria has no plans to slow down, and recently converted one of her barns into an amazing light-filled space where she hosts regular dining experiences and private parties. She has also held several pop-ups, taking over the kitchens of The Sorrel Horse in Shottisham and New Street Market in Woodbridge. Her innovative menus, which include her signature savoury baklavas and famous moussaka croquettes, include Greek Cypriot inspired dishes such as slow cooked lamb shank with tomatoes orzo and feta; rabbit rillette on anise lavoush with Greek honey and figs; and a decadently rich Tahini chocolate pudding, have been a

huge hit and she has plans for more events at the barn. These include a Spring Awakening supper on the 18th March and a Greek Easter feast on 16th April, as well as another pop-up at the Sorrel Horse from the 8th-12th March.

She is also hoping to hold a series of drop-in events, firing up her Turkish BBQ on a sunny afternoon and serving traditional souvlaki with Cypriot fried potatoes and homemade tzatziki. The spontaneity of this type of event, where friends gather to eat and drink together, is at the heart of Maria’s love for cooking and is a passion I, for one, will be more than happy to share.

To subscribe to Maria’s newsletter email her on hello@thisismariaelia.com Instagram @mariaelia9

about taste

Counter intuitive

Peasenhall Deli is the new venture of business partners Mark Mills and Lucy Davies, the team behind the tremendously popular Bakehouse at Emmerdale Farm Shop. Bakers extraordinaire, they’ll be serving artisan sandwiches, light lunches and savoury bakes from the counter that can be accompanied by a wide selection of fresh seasonal salads. And then there’s the sweet counter, which will be regularly topped up with a fresh and varied selection of cakes and treats, all baked in house at the new site - previously Salter & King, the butchers – just off the high street.

In true deli style, you can also expect to find a great selection of local cheeses, charcuterie and cured meats, along with bread, fruit and vegetables, milk, eggs and other pantry items. Open in time for Easter, you can follow their progress on Instagram /peasenhalldeli

Say cheese!

Join writer, photographer, and author of A Portrait of British Cheese, Angus D. Birditt, for an evening of hedgerow-inspired cheese and wine at the Food Museum. On the night, Angus will be discussing his book and his adventures discovering artisan cheeses across the British Isles. The book celebrates the excellence of artisan and farmhouse cheese in the British Isles, showing how they are profoundly connected to the land, farm animals and the people involved in making them. It has recently been longlisted for the André Simon Awards, the prestigious annual awards for food and drink books.

Angus will also be discussing the museum’s Hedgerow exhibition, curated by him and currently on display, and taking questions from the audience, all accompanied by a selection of delicious hedgerow inspired cheeses paired with local wines.

Venue:

The Food Museum, Stowmarket, IP14 1SL Date & Time:

Thursday, 30th March 2023, 6pm – 8pm

For more information and to book, head to www.foodmuseum.org.uk/events

There’s a new kid on the block in Southwold, and it’s definitely brought colour and verve to the High St! Serving the most fabulous all-day brunch, gourmet fries and waffles, Loaded is the brainchild of Emma Barber, a local lass who had long felt that there was a gap in the market in Southwold and so, after celebrating a significant birthday, she decided that there was no time like the present and took the plunge, opening Loaded’s doors in December 2022.

Emma sources her meat from Cleveleys and the fruit and veg from Wangford Farm Shop, both just down the road, and as well as serving up perennial favourites such as BBQ pulled pork, and brisket and blue cheese topped fries, she has worked hard

to create a mouth-watering variety of choices for vegetarians, vegans and gluten intolerant customers too.

Eat in or take out, there’s no need to book, just pop in or order online! Easy peasy. Open Thursday - Sunday, 10am – 9pm

www.loaded-southwold.com

Just ring The Bell

Recently named as one of the hottest places to stay in the UK by The Independent newspaper, The Bell Hotel in Saxmundham has recently reopened after a year of refurbishment. The hotel’s new owners offer a 4* boutique hotel experience with exquisite cuisine that has made their restaurant one of the most popular places in the local area. The restaurant is gorgeous and the same can be said for the food offering, with menus packed with seasonal specials such as local farm partridge and Salter & King’s grass-fed dry-aged prime beef rump steak, plus popular year-round choices such in-house cheeseburger and crispy battered cod. You can also choose from a great value Prix Fixe Menu, opting for two or three courses, so whatever whets your appetite, The Bell has got it covered!

www.thebellhotelsaxmundham.co.uk

about taste

Ingredients

For the stock:

½ an onion, roughly chopped

2 cloves of garlic

1 celery stalk

Parsley stalks

Leftover roast chicken carcass

For the soup:

Glug of olive oil

½ an onion, finely diced

1 clove garlic - finely chopped

Pinch ground allspice

½ tsp ground cinnamon

½ litre of chicken stock

100g orzo

2 large vine ripe tomatoespeeled & diced

Handful of reserved

chicken meat - shredded

2 tbsp finely chopped mint

2 tbsp finely chopped dill

2 tbsp finely chopped

flat leaf parsley

1 tbsp freshly squeezed

lemon juice

Chicken, orzo, tomato, lemon and herb soup

In the winter there’s nothing more comforting than homemade chicken soup. This favourite recipe from chef Maria Elia is a warm hug in a bowl.

Method

For the stock

Pick the meat from the carcass and set aside, place the carcass in a large pan, add the onion and garlic, along with the celery & parsley stalks. Cover with water and place over a medium heat. Gently bring up to boiling then lower the heat and simmer for approx half an hour. Remove from heat, skim the surface of fat and pass through a fine sieve, discarding the vegetables and allow to cool.

For the soup

Heat the oil in a medium sized saucepan, add the onion and

cook gently until softened and transparent, then add the garlic, allspice and cinnamon and cook for a minute more. Now add the chicken stock and bring almost to the boil before adding the orzo, tomatoes and chicken. Reduce the heat and simmer and cook for approx 8 minutes or until the orzo is tender.

Take off the heat, add the fresh herbs and lemon juice and season with sea salt and freshly milled black pepper. Serve drizzled with extra virgin olive.

(Recipe from Smashing Plates courtesy of Maria Elia)

Hall to Hall

A hearty stomp is exactly what we need at this time of year, especially if there is the promise of a delicious brunch at the end. So, what better excuse than to gather a gaggle of fellow yompers and set out on a circular 7-mile walk from Martha’s Barn café at Otley Hall.

The walk takes approx. two hours, so we park in the overflow carpark to avoid blocking the main carpark whilst we are off on our rambles. The footpath is just to the left of where we park, a wide grassy track which leads us you around the outskirts of the gardens, where, through the rosebushes, we spy the twinkly lights of the café being switched on and immediately start looking

forward to what’s on the menu when we return. At the lane we turn left, and just past some chicken sheds spot another footpath sign which directs us across an expanse of farmland. At the far end, our boots weighed down with dinner plates of clay, we cross a walkway cut into the hedge, cross another smaller field and then pop out onto a grassy track.

Here we turn right and follow this track along the hedgerow and up towards a well-positioned bench that takes in the glorious view of the surrounding countryside. Not one to miss a photo opportunity, we squash onto the bench, and then spend another fraught five minutes trying to get the six dogs to pose too. In the end, all it takes is a treat held high – see photo. Well - five out of

round & about

six isn’t bad! We carry on and after skirting a pond, where at least two of the dogs dive in, we come to a pretty meadow sheltered by a belt of ancient woodland. It feels very secluded here so we pop the dogs on leads and instinctively drop our voices, listening to the twitter of the birds and looking out for deer. Where the track narrows, we bear right over a small wooden footbridge, past another pond and then emerge back onto open farmland.

The track skirts around another field and then takes us left down past an unusual tree which appears to have been in a long slow battle for supremacy with another tree, the two intertwined in a death grip. At a farm track we turn right and follow this downhill, keeping left to pop over the bridge at the

bottom, taking us through the trees and out onto the road. Crossing carefully, we pick up the footpath opposite which leads up to a large gate that is one the entrances to Helmingham Hall Estate. Dogs back on leads, as the estate is home to large herds of both red and fallow deer, we follow the wooden markers along the edge of a deep gully. At a decorative flint and stone bridge, where you can imagine elegant ladies of the aristocracy pausing for a moment with their beaus, we turn left and head up towards the hall.

Unfortunately, the tearooms are still shut for the season, but this would be a welldeserved halfway break. Thoughts of brunch beginning to surface, we pick up the pace and stride on, heading around the front of

round & about

the hall and down towards two lakes, where another stone bridge leads to the church. We take a peek inside to look at the impressive memorials to generations of the Tollemache family, who have lived at Helmingham Hall since the 16th century. Leaving the churchyard, we cross the road and pick up the footpath, which cuts across a small field and into a wooded copse before hitting the road towards Otley. After passing a large wooden barn, a footpath on the left takes us across a grassy meadow and then over a stile and onto farmland. At a stone bridge we turn right and hit another grassy track, where conversations move from brunch to birthdays to backpacking, and before we know it are back to the hole in the hedge and retracing our steps across the farmland – the clay

dinner plates feeling a little heavier second time around.

The twinkling lights of Martha’s Barn come back into view, and after kicking off our muddy boots, we are soon sat down with the menu, coffees ordered and the dogs asleep under the table. It was a wonderfully refreshing walk, and we feel justified in tucking into plates of smashed avocado on toasted sourdough topped with tempura tenderstem broccoli, feta and pomegranate seeds; garlic mushrooms on a creamy butter bean puree with spinach crispy onions; and grilled bacon and cheese sandwiches. The perfect end to our morning’s walk and, with no room for cake – I know! – we make plans to return.

round & about

about you

Civil Block

www.civilblock.co.uk @civilblock

The Blue Tits

www.thebluetits.co @thebluetits

Framlingham Pharmacy

32 Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AY T: 01728 723477

Rose Constantine Smith www.roseconstantinesmith.co.uk

interiors emporium

East of Eden

The Old Barn

Fromus Square

Saxmundham IP17 1DG www.east-of-eden.co.uk

hyrst

www.hyrst.co.uk @hyrstfurniture

Jem Silly @jemsilly

Just Tiles

Smithfield, Melton Woodbridge IP12 1NH

T: 01394 382067

www.justtileswoodbridge.co.uk

Lark Interiors

Well Close Square

Framlingham IP13 9DS

T: 01394 834481 www.lark-interiors.com

Marlesford Mill

Main Road

Marlesford IP13 0AG

T: 01728 748076 www.marlesfordmill.com

Narwhal Interiors

23 Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AN @narwhal_interiors

New Street Market

70 New Street Woodbridge IP12 1DX

www.newstreetmarket.com

no1EastLane

Swan House & Garden 21 High St

Debenham IP14 6QL @no1eastlane

Old Brewhouse Pottery

www.oldbrewhousepottery.co.uk @oldbrewhousepottery

Snape Maltings

Snape Bridge

Snape IP17 1SP www.brittenpearsarts.org

Vida Haus

The Three Tuns

Pettistree IP13 0HW

T: 07718 192888

www.vida.haus

Woolly Comforts

www.woollycomforts.co.uk @woollycomforts

Stockists

fashion emporium

Baggage @drabltd

Blackshore Coastal Clothing

37 High St

Southwold IP18 6AB

T: 01502 218190 www.blackshore.cc

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

East of Eden

The Old Barn

Fromus Square

Saxmundham IP17 1DG www.east-of-eden.co.uk

Fleur

166 High Street

Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ www.fleuraldeburgh.co.uk

Focus Organic

14 Thoroughfare

Halesworth IP19 8AH

T: 01986 872899 www.focusorganic.co.uk

Matisa Market

UNIT 3, Brightwell Barns

Ipswich Rd IP10 0BJ www.matisamarket.com

O&C Butcher

129 High Street

Aldeburgh. IP15 5AS www.ocbutcher.co.uk

Julie Phipps

30 Earsham St

Bungay NR35 1AQ

T: 01986 892875

www.juliephipps.com

Ruby Tyger

No 1 The Mews Market Hill

Framlingham IP13 9AN @rubytyger.framlingham

Suffolk Wedding Dress Exchange

The Moat Farm

Badingham Rd

Framlingham IP13 9JB

T: 01728 724254

www.suffolkweddingdressexchange. co.uk

The Woodbridge Edit

Anna

32 Church St

Woodbridge IP12 1DH

T: 01394 383452 www.shopatanna.com

Barretts of Woodbridge

40 Thoroughfare

Woodbridge IP12 1AL www.barretts.co.uk

Hug

12 Market Hill

Woodbridge IP12 4LP www.huglifestyles.com

Ives footwear

29 & 31 The Thoroughfare

Woodbridge IP12 1AA

T: 01394 386393 www.ivesfootwear.co.uk

Moose

20A Market Hill

Woodbridge IP12 4LU @mooseonthehill

New Street Market

70 New Street

Woodbridge IP12 1DX www.newstreetmarket.com

Pocket

26 Church Street

Woodbridge IP12 1DH www.pocketkids.co.uk

Saltpeter Wines

72 New St

Woodbridge IP12 1DX

T: 01394 447983

www.saltpeterwines.co.uk

The Good Dogg

8 Church St

Woodbridge IP12 1DH

T: 01394 813423

www.thegooddogguk.com

The Merchant’s Table

10 Church Street

Woodbridge IP12 1DH

www.themerchantstable.co.uk

Vanil

17 Church St

Woodbridge IP12 1DS

T: 07702 877081

www.vanil.co.uk

Woodbridge Bookshop

66 Thoroughfare

Woodbridge IP12 1AL

T: 01394 382382

www.woodbridgebooks.co.uk

Woodbridge Kitchen Company

7 Thoroughfare

Woodbridge IP12 1AA

www.woodbridgekitchencompany. co.uk