Essential Suffolk July August 2017

July/August 2017 | Priceless

Essential SUFFOLK

SUMMER in Suffolk Packed with ideas for enjoying our county Theatre | Food | Fashion | Homes & Interiors | Property

www.essentialsuffolk.com

CELEBRATING ALL THAT MAKES OUR COUNTY GREAT

MADE FOR LIFE DESIGN

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M A N U FA C T U R E

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I N S TA L L

Please come and see our exciting new range of Vincent Sheppard chairs and Cole & Son wallpaper. In addition to our Davey and BTC lighting.

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VISIT US

Ipswich | Suffolk IP2 8LL | 01473 680091

Showroom, Design and Manufacturing all at the same Suffolk address.

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APPLIANCE SPECIALISTS

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Beautifully handcrafted, bespoke kitchens, Beautifully handcrafted, bespoke kitchens, studies, studies, bedrooms & dressing rooms. bedrooms, dressing rooms & bathrooms.

Whatever your summer day out weÊre here for you Deben Inns – a group of individual Suffolk inns – have six fantastic pubs that are perfect stopping points for you whatever your summer day out may hold. Whether you’re looking for a quick stop for coffee and cake or a full blown celebration we’re here for you.

photograph © Anthony Cullen

photograph © Anthony Cullen

Child friendly, dog friendly, well basically just friendly whoever you are and whatever you need.

All our pubs are open for all day dining so we are perfect for breakfast to fuel your day ahead or any point in between until you are ready to wind down at night.

Dine by the River Deben at The Maybush

Dine by the River Orwell at The Butt & Oyster

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Sailing Club

New Oak Tree Farm

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Church Farm

White 6 Hall

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14 PH 1 Street Farm 2 NEWBOURNE

Hemley Hall

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Food served all day – every day Vegetarian and gluten free options

The Butt & Oyster Pin Mill, Ipswich IP9 1JW 01473 780764

The Coach & Horses Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1PD 01394 384851

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Scenic circular walks around all pubs

The Maybush Cliff Rd, Waldringfield IP12 4QL 01473 736215

The Wilford Bridge Wilford Bridge Rd Melton, IP12 2PA 01394 386141

All inns open Monday to Saturday 9.00am – 11.00pm & Sunday 9.00am – 10.30pm

Get the Deben Inns app for our latest news and offers.

Simply search Deben Inns in the app store and follow the simple instructions.

www.debeninns.co.uk

Dog friendly

Daily specials

The Fox Inn The Street Newbourne, IP12 4NY 01473 736307

The Swan Westerfield Road Westerfield, IP6 9AJ 01473 251447

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Lesley Rawlinson Director lesley@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07519 477583

Adrian Rawlinson Director adrian@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07718 149307

Alison Watson Account Manager alison@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07546 485204

Anne Gould Editor editor@achievemoremedia.co.uk M: 07411 701010

Paul Newman Designer paul@newman-design.com Cover: Tips for a perfect picnic – see page 66

| Welcome

WELCOME So the long hot summer stretches out ahead and as ever it looks as if there is much to look forward to; days on the beach, balmy evenings, eating al fresco with family and friends, exploring the great outdoors and, of course, plenty of culture. Suffolk’s festivals, celebrating a vast range of musical traditions and artistic genres offer our county an extra dimension on the entertainment front, especially at this time of year. So come holiday time all you need is added sunshine, a well-stocked picnic box and your holiday is sorted.

Latitude, Aldeburgh Proms, Maverick and Theatre in the Forest are all offering really exciting programmes this year and for something completely different checkout boutique event, Mekonville. Don’t forget too, July is also a celebration for Suffolk Community Foundation with ten magnificent years of Suffolk Dog Day – raising money to help charities in the county.

Whether it’s discovering innovative ways of raising money for charity or creating works of art, Suffolk has long harboured an abundance of talent; it’s almost part of our DNA. So, perhaps it’s hardly surprising that even an old Cold War airbase – the former USAF Bentwaters at Rendlesham – is now a hotbed of artistic output. In this issue Essential Suffolk visits the former airfield and speaks to rock star Jesse Quin of Keane, about his ‘Old Jet’ project. We also talk to leading female film producer Lucinda Rhodes Thakrar about her new feature film, Escape that she’s shooting on the site and hear more about plans to build a film studio too.

Talking of innovation, this month we’ve crossed the sea – well the Stour estuary – to meet entrepreneur Christian Zeeman whose passion for the water is helping to improve travel choices for Suffolk holiday makers and locals alike. It’s thanks to him that day trips between Felixstowe and Essex have become increasingly popular and with his new plans for evening trips to Pin Mill, seal spotting trips to Hamford Water and seaward adventures there’s clearly more to come.

If you still need summer inspiration we’ve put our heads together to bring you our top tips for exploring the county and don’t forget to check out our What’s On listings too. There’s plenty of summer reading with our regular property, food & drink, pub dog walk, fashion, homes & interiors and gardening pages too.

See all our social event photographs at essentialsuffolk.com @EssentialSFK

Essential Suffolk

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with Achieve More Media Limited.

Reproduction in part or whole if forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All prices, events and times were to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of going to press and you are encouraged to contact the venue prior to booking.

All expressions and opinions within the publication are those of the editor including contributors. Essential Suffolk is a trading name of Achieve More Media Limited.

Have a great summer and if you need to contact us in between times we’re on Twitter @EssentialSFK, on Facebook or check out our website www.essentialsuffolk.com

Anne Gould Anne Gould Editor editor@achievemoremedia.co.uk

Essential SUFFOLK is Suffolk’s most exclusive magazine delivered only to individually selected homes, businesses and venues. It is brought to you each month with the valued support of our commercial partners. Please let them know you saw them here.

To subscribe either:

12 issues for £24 Single issues just £2.95 All delivered straight to your door

1. Visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/essential-shop 2. Send a cheque for £24 (for 12 issues) or £2.95 (for a single issue) to Achieve More Media Ltd, 21 Terry Gardens, Kesgrave, Suffolk IP5 2EP Prices include postage and packaging.

Personal details will be used for subscription purposes only.

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K I TC H E N S

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B AT H R O O M S

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BEDROOMS

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HOME OFFICES

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HOME CINEMAS

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LIBRARIES

01473 610 192 www.angliafactors.co.uk 34 GLOSTER ROAD, MARTLESHAM HEATH, IPSWICH IP5 3RD

Contents

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Food & Drink

Where to go and what to see in Suffolk this July and August

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Homes & Interiors

Mini Previews

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Gardening

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Property

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Essential Faces

FEATURES

REGULARS

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Suffolk in Brief

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What’s On

Summer Festivals Snape Proms, Folk East, Maverick, Maui Waui, and Latitude previews

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Creative Rendlesham

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Harwich Foot Ferry

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News from around the county

New life after Bentwaters

The expanding service at the mouths of the Stour and Orwell rivers

Essential Explores Summer The very best guide to exploring our glorious county this summer

My Suffolk Tim Holder, Development Director for Suffolk Community Foundation

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Aldeburgh Carnival, Mekonville, Clangers exhibition, English Sheepdog Trials and Theatre in the Forest

Fashion Sundresses and summer holiday essentials

Pub Dog Walk

Dining at The Turks Head (Hasketon) and The Ship (Dunwich), a sweet summer recipe from Woodhall Manor plus a gallery full of ideas for eating out this summer

Top tips for a perfect picnic

Keeping on trend with planting

A selection of our county’s finest homes for sale

Highlights from Suffolk’s social calendar

Beside the sea at Aldeburgh from The Wentworth Hotel

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

A SUMMER FULL OF FESTIVALS The sun is shining (hopefully), the days are long and it really is high season when it comes to festivals across the county. Essential Suffolk rounds up the cultural festivities

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here’s nothing better than sitting outdoors on a summer evening listening to your favourite music while watching the sinking sun and the sky fading through shades of pink, purple and orange. No matter what your choice of music might be Suffolk, with its big festivals over the summer season, offers an astonishing range of cultural delights.

Maverick Festival 2017 Easton Farm Park. June 30 – July 2 Maverick is ten years old this year and in that time this Americana music festival has grown in size and reputation and has gained numerous awards along the way from the Guardian (UK’s Best Festival List 2015), Sunday Times (Top 40 Festivals List 2016) and is BBC Radio Suffolk Festival of the Year 2017.

So for its tenth anniversary the line-up, at Easton Farm Park, promises something special and is welcoming American award-winning singersongwriter Justin Townes Earle. Son of alternative country artist Steve Earle, Justin will be bringing his own mix of Americana, Folk and Blues to the Farm.

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To help celebrate Canada Day on July 1, Maverick will also host Juno Award winning East Coast songwriter Amelia Curran, as well hotly-tipped Canadian roots rocker Terra Lightfoot, who is sure to get the party started! The festival brings an eclectic mix of styles to the Suffolk scene, with the lively New Orleans jazz street music from The Roamin’ Jasmine; alongside old-time bluegrass from Hot Rock Pilgrims.

Maverick also welcomes UK Americana favourites Case Hardin to this year’s line-up.

Over the past decade Maverick Festival organisers have stuck to what they believe in; presenting exciting and inspiring line-ups year after year. "We have looked back over the years and reached out to artists who particularly caught the imagination of past audiences – acts like The Henry Brothers, Stompin Dave Allen, Police Dog Hogan and Brooks Williams as well as keeping a sharp eye on the new generation of American torch bearers like Grammy nominated Sierra Hull and Justin Townes Earle,” says Festival Director, Paul Spencer.

As a result legendary award-winning instrumentalist BJ Cole will be returning with his band The Gold Nuggets, who will perform with many artists over the festival weekend. The line-up also includes Albert Lee, Worry Dolls, Dean Owens, Tom Parkes, Erin Rae & The Meanwhiles, The Danberrys, Annie Keating, Hank Wangford, Amy McCarley, Fargo Railway Co. Steamboat Union, The Black Feathers, Lachlan Bryan, The Wildes and Norton Money.

This year Maverick Festival will take place from Friday 30th June – Sunday 2nd July 2017, showcasing the most authentic and talented musicians from both sides of the Atlantic. Set amongst the picturesque Victorian farm buildings of Easton Farm Park, the site is nestled deep in the Suffolk countryside. The festival presents music performances, film & workshops and features over forty different artists, across five stages indoors and out.

INFORMATION www.maverickfestival.co.uk

Festivals

Latitude Henham Park. July 13 – 16 Now in its 12th year, Latitude sets the bar high for summer festivals, with a host of exciting acts added to the line up across the Music stages, Music & Film Arena and talks in the Wellcome Trust Arena. Public Service Broadcasting will be joining a star-studded line up in the Obelisk Arena alongside this years’ headliners The 1975, Mumford & Sons and Fleet Foxes.

As anticipation builds for their forthcoming debut album, Norway’s Sløtface, who have proved themselves as one of the most exciting new acts of the year, will be joining the stellar music line up.

Another raucous live act joining the bill is Dead Pretties and Saint Motel will bring a dreamy-pop performance to the Sunrise Arena. Meanwhile Suffolk’s own Bessie Turner and 80s influenced jokers Rad Pitt join the Lake Stage line up as part of BBC Introducing.

The Music and Film Arena will play host to one of the brightest MC talents to emerge from the UK’s buzzing grime underground scene in recent years, AJ Tracey. Also MC, producer and Best Grime Act MOBO Award nominee, Novelist will appear.

Dutch electronic producer, songwriter and vocalist Chagall will perform Collaboration, and leading variety performer La Voix will dazzle the Latitude audience with a one-of-a-kind performance with actress Harriet Thorpe.

The Music & Film Arena will host a screening of Whitney: Can I Be Me; a documentary unveiling an unparalleled look at the life and ultimate passing of one of the world’s most successful female artists Whitney Houston, through unseen footage and live recordings.

Alt.Russia takes you on Placebo’s tour from Krasnoyarsk in Siberia to St Petersburg in the Baltic Sea, investigating the alternative culture in Russia from artists, architects, animators and musician. Placebo will introduce the film to the Latitude crowd in person on Friday’s BBC Music Stage.

The director behind the legendary Jason Bourne action thrillers, Paul Greengrass, and director of 2016s criticallyacclaimed biographical drama A United Kingdom, Amma Asante, will each be in conversation with outspoken and respected UK film critic Mark Kermode in the Music & Film Arena.

Artist, musician and Turner-Prize winner Martin Creed will present an iconoclastic discussion of art, humour and subversion through his stage show Words and Music, whilst Bruce Parry teams up with Jon Sauven of Greenpeace to discuss his latest film TAWAI; a voice from the forest, where Bruce lives with indigenous people of the world on a quest into the heart of the human conscience.

This year’s theme, Come the Revolution, will be explored too through the cutting edge scientific research and the words and wit of writers, researchers and scientists from across the UK and beyond. Tania Harrison, Arts Curator for Latitude Festival explained, “ We have invited scientists, speakers and artists to present discussions and shows that explore the revolutions taking place across scientific disciplines: the breakthroughs in neuroscience that will change our health, wellbeing and technologies. This is reflected in a programme that extends from The Wellcome Trust Arena and literary speakers, to theatre, film, music and pop-up experiences and testing across the site.” ‰

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CREATING ROOMS FROM CONSERVATORIES Is your conservatory too hot in summer?... too cold in winter?... too noisy when it rains?

If your answer is yes to any of these questions we have the solution and can help you create the year round room you always hoped your conservatory would be. Most conservatories in the past were built

BEFORE

with polycarbonate roofs. This product is practical, easy to install and cost effective but has drawbacks.

Changing your roof to a glass option or a warm roof will transform your conservatory.

AFTER

Glass roofs Use of new ‘Activ’ glass means that you can have a glass roof without feeling like you are being cooked by the suns rays. Available in a bronze or blue finish the glass has a built-in material that helps reflect the sun. The U-value (insulation properties) is better than polycarbonate but does not really compare to a warm roof system. Glass roofs are about 50% better than Polycarbonate roofs, but warm roofs are 5 times better than glass. It is this difference in insulation which changes the use of the room.

interior you are transforming the conservatory into a room. A very bright room, one that you can use all year round. Although the investment is considerably less than an extension you are effectively creating an additional reception room in your house.

If you enjoy your conservatory sitting back looking up at the sky or seeing the stars at night there is always an options of adding a lantern roof. Our show room has a number of examples, please feel free to come and have a look. Our customers welcome the fact that they are not sold to, we are happy to explain the different options and show you what they look like.

Warm roof it’s not a roof you’re getting it’s a room This is a highly insulated roof system that fits on top of your existing conservatory. With a solid, tiled roof on the exterior, plastered with lighting on the

For more details you can visit Colourchange UPVC’s website www.colourchangeupvc.co.uk or contact Daryl on 01394 420774

Business owner Daryl Collins

Base Business Park, Unit D4, Rendlesham, Suffolk IP12 2TZ 01394 420 774 | sales@colourchangeupvc.co.uk www.colourchangeupvc.co.uk

Colourchange UPVC are a Consumer Protection Association approved company and are certified by Certass – authorised by the Department for Communities and Local Government. CPA and Certass registered companies undergo a rigorous selection process to ensure that they deliver your home improvements to the very highest standards. The Consumer Protection Association provide an independent 10 year insurance backed guarantee for work undertaken by Colourchange UPVC.

Festivals Investigating the theme of wellbeing, Dr Sandy Grant will be in conversation with award winning writer and photographer Will Storr, looking at individuality in the social-media age in The Age of the Individual: Playing at Being Ourselves. The Psychologist will host Prof Peter Kinderman and Prof Victoria Tischler as they discuss A Manifesto for Psychological Health and Wellbeing with Dr Henrietta BowdenJones, whilst Dr Ben Fincham (Sussex) and Dinah Bornat will explore Autonomy, Freedom and Playing with the Rules: The Rehabilitation of Wellbeing.

Latitude will also be presenting debates and discussion on the scientific knowledge that is revolutionising ideas of health and healthcare with world expert on autism Professor Simon Baron-Cohen (Director, Autism Research Centre), Dr Tony Goldstone and Dr Samantha Scholtz (Imperial) take a look at Gut Hormones in Addiction and Professor Daniel M. Davis (Manchester) will be in conversation with Dr Natalie Riddell (Surrey), delving into Immunity and the Health Revolution, chaired by broadcaster, comedian and actor Robin Ince.

INFORMATION www.latitudefestival.com

Snape Proms 2017 August 1 – September 1 Snape Proms is one of the highlights of summer in Suffolk and this year artists from all genres from the UK, America, Australia, Russia, Germany and South Africa will be performing at this iconic August event.

Leading British jazz singer Clare Teal (right) accompanied by Guy Barker and The Hollywood Orchestra, opens the season with a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald.

Two-time Grammy Award winning singer and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier who fuses elements of jazz, folk, trip-hop, classical, Brazilian music, a cappella, gospel and soul is one of a number of stars making their debuts at Snape this year. One of British jazz music scene’s enduring institutions National Youth Jazz Orchestra returns to Snape with classic big band music by Duke Ellington and Count Basie.

The Folk, Roots and World line-up will see visits by Scottish singing star Barbara Dickson (far right), American singer songwriter Loudon Wainwright III, acclaimed British folk artists Eliza Carthy and Seth Lakeman. Humour, storytelling and jazz standards come from The Jay Rayner Quartet, Joe Stilgoe with his witty style, virtuosic musicianship and theatricality and Alex Mendham and his Orchestra perform hot jazz and dance music of the 1920s and 30s.

renowned sopranos Renée Fleming and Danielle de Niese and performances by pianists Elisabeth Leonskaja and Stephen Hough. The Nash Ensemble will be playing Schubert’s Trout Quintet, The King’s Consort has an all Bach programme and violinist Alina Ibragimova with be on stage with her Chiaroscuro Quartet.

Snape is also welcoming three sensational and contrasting choirs; The Sixteen, the legendary South African Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Europe’s largest gay choir – London Gay Men’s Chorus.

This year, the Proms offer a striking number of symphony orchestra concerts including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, John Wilson Orchestra, New London Orchestra, National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, Suffolk Youth Orchestra and the world’s first professional black and minority ethnic symphony orchestra, Chineke! (below).

The summer season ends in rousing style with a special live edition of BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night is Music Night, hosted by Len Goodman.

INFORMATION www.snapemaltings.co.uk

Meanwhile the classical programme includes the first Snape Proms appearances by internationally

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Festivals

Folk East 2017 Glemham Hall. August 18 – 20 The three-day FolkEast festival will once again be held at the glorious 300-acre Suffolk estate of 16th century Glemham.

Described by The Guardian as feeling more like a very English village fete than a festival this year’s event has an eclectic line up of folk and world music acts and will also include 2017 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards nominees Nancy Kerr and Dorset duo Ninebarrow.

Other names include the mighty Martin Simpson, the ace guitarist and songwriter who skilfully melds British and American roots music and has been nominated an astounding 23 times in the Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Also playing are the top traditional English folk singer Fay Hield and standout duos India Electric Co (Cole Stacey and Joseph O’Keefe) and Ben Savage and Hannah Sanders. Bringing their bold and brilliant Basque country folk music to Suffolk will be Korrontzi alongside London-based duo Alma, innovative multi instrumental trio Three Cane Whale and the female folk song foursome Norfolk Broads who went down a storm last year.

More female folk exponents will be the trio Moirai (Jo Freya, Sarah Matthews and Mel Biggs) with their colourful palette of sounds and song whilst gypsy jazz quartet Swing Museum will provide a tea dance set. The line-up will also include acclaimed singer guitarist Michael Chapman, esteemed veteran duo Martin Carthy & John Kirkpatrick and an outstanding duo from the younger generation, Will Pound and Eddy Jay, who made waves with their debut album Ignite last year. Pound has been nominated three times for the coveted BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards ‘Musician of the Year’.

festival is played out across six stages (including St Andrew’s Church, the open air Sunset Stage and the hidden woodland Soapbox Stage) and offers fine Suffolk food and two authentic ‘village’ pubs serving festival ales – plus possibly the smallest pub in the UK, The Halfway Inn. Located close to the A12 the festival will also be running shuttle buses to the site from Wickham Market station.

Lau, three times winners of Best Group at the Folk Awards, are also Suffolkbound. The trio comprises Martin Green, Aidan O’Rourke and Kris Drever and Drever’s song If Wishes Were Horses won Best Original Track at the 2017 Folk Awards.

Other acts to look out for include Simpson, Cutting and Kerr, Damien O’Kane Band and Irish traditional folk outfit Beoga who collaborated with Ed Sheeran on his new album, Divide. The

INFORMATION www.folkeast.co.uk

Maui Waui Peak Hill Farm, Theberton. August 25 – 27 Maui Waui describes itself as an international festival of performance and art and this year it’s moved from its usual September slot to span the August Bank Holiday weekend. The three-day event at Peak Hill Farm, Theberton is now in its fifth year and has been growing in reputation and reach, pulling in accomplished as well as undiscovered bands and performers from all around the globe.

Among those taking part this year are Dreadzone, Urban Voodoo Machine, Dutty Moonshine Big Band, Freestylers, Cut Capers, UFO Slaviens, Headspace, Bloodshake Chorus and Suffolk’s own Tallulah Goodtimes. Maui Waui focuses on an all-welcoming family feel with lots to do for children as well as adults; hosting world class bands, full circus shows in a dedicated circus tent, small upbeat bands and acoustic acts, plus cabaret and comedy.

The festival has five key areas of entertainment but the Main Stage is the biggest venue at the festival and runs throughout the whole weekend, hosting anything from small local bands to huge 20 piece orchestras and world famous names.

Creativity, art and extravagant décor is at the heart of Maui Waui. Months of creative work go into the event, both ahead of time and at the event, ensuring that the whole site really looks the part.

The festival is proud to have a green policy, recycling 80% of all rubbish and it uses solar energy to power lighting too.

This year it is also hosting the Maui’s Got Talent Competition; if you are a performer aged 16 or under, here’s your chance to shine – see website for more details.

INFORMATION www.mauiwauievents.co.uk

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BESPOKE DESIGN

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MANUFACTURE

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INSTALLATION

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SHOWROOM OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 9am – 5pm, Saturday: 10am – 4pm

The Granary, Rendlesham Mews, Rendlesham, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 2SZ. T: 01394 421214

www.debenvale.com

News

SUFFOLK in brief While Ufford Park is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year, there’s another significant birthday going on at the hotel, golf and spa venue – Congo Rapids Lost World Adventure Golf has celebrated its 1st birthday having opened to the public on 20th June 2016. The 18-hole Adventure Golf course has proved to be popular with guests of Ufford Park and the wider public.

David Moore, founder of Congo Rapids said: “We’re delighted that our decision to open Congo Rapids Lost World at Ufford Park has been such a success in its first year.

Adventure Golf is fun for everyone to enjoy, and we are excited about what the future at Ufford Park, and other potential new sites, will bring.” Tarnia Robertson, Managing Director at Ufford Park said: “When the idea for Congo Rapids Lost World was first presented to us we immediately felt that it would be a great complement to our hotel and golf offering. We are so happy with what we have seen over the past year, and that families and other groups have really enjoyed playing Adventure Golf here. We wish Congo Rapids a Happy 1st Birthday and many more to come.”

Nuffield Health has picked up the award for Private Hospital Group of the Year at the Health Investor Awards 2017. The award is designed to recognise outstanding contribution to healthcare over the past 12 months, through innovation and excellence in healthcare products and services. With a network of 31 hospitals across the UK, including Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, Nuffield Health has concentrated on enhancing patient satisfaction and quality care across the organisation. In accepting the award, Chris Blackwell-Frost, Chief Customer Officer said: “Nuffield Health is honoured to receive the Private Hospital Group of the Year award. It is a delight to accept this on behalf of the hardworking and dedicated teams across our hospitals network, who every day ensure our patients’ interests are

their priority.” Nuffield Health was selected from a finalist group of six private hospital groups within the UK. The finalists included a mixture of not-for-profit, privately owned and publicly listed organisations.

Savills in Ipswich is currently celebrating its 30th birthday having opened its first office in Princes Street in July 1987. At that time Mark Oliver and Peter Start led a team of six, selling country houses and advising farmers and landowners across the county.

Fast forward 30 years and Mark and Peter still lead the team, now more than 20 strong, offering a multidisciplinary service to clients.

Mark comments: “Today our client base is more wide ranging reflecting the breadth of services we now offer including new homes sales, commercial property advice and development consultancy alongside our original residential and rural departments.

It’s wonderful to see the success of the office and to be able to give clients continuity, experience and sound market knowledge across the sectors in which we operate.”

He continued: “Suffolk is undoubtedly an appealing place to live yet over the years it has managed to retain its understated charm and character.” Read more about this story at essentialsuffolk.com/savills30

Local hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre raised £500 with the return of their special charity dog walk – helping raise funds for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. 60 guests and their four-legged friends enjoyed a 4.5 mile stroll taking in the beautiful countryside and river views between Newbourne and Waldringfield.

Guests then tucked into breakfast at the halfway point (The Maybush Inn), kindly donated by Steve Lomas at Deben Inns.

Hearing Care Centre Audiologist and Managing Director Karen Finch, who took part in the walk with her Cockapoo said, “What a lovely way to spend a Saturday morning! We are extremely thankful to the Deben Inns for their generous donation and for all our guests who came and took part.”

After seven years, Essential Suffolk Publisher Adrian Rawlinson is leaving the magazine this month as he takes up a new role as Head of Communications and Marketing at St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich. Adrian said “It has been a hard decision to make the change as I remain passionate about our magazine, however I have become increasingly more passionate about working with the hospice. Hospices are amazing organisations that make a real difference to people living with a progressive illness, helping not only the patient but also their families; this is something I saw at close quarters when I lost my sister last year. Each year St Elizabeth Hospice needs to raise almost £10 million to be able to offer its services and I believe the skills I have gathered through my career will help the hospice team achieve this and hopefully more in the coming years”. Essential Suffolk will continue with Adrian’s wife and business partner Lesley taking full control of the day to day running of the magazine.

Suffolk-based Hopkins Homes has been named in the fourth edition of the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain report.

The report is a celebration of the UK’s most dynamic small and medium sized businesses. Beginning with a single renovation project in 1985, Hopkins Homes is now the largest independent housebuilder in East Anglia building over 1000 homes in the last financial year. The company employs over 120 people at the head office in Woodbridge and its developments support many thousands of jobs across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex. Hopkins Homes is also the largest supplier of affordable homes in the region and has made payments of over £19 Million towards community infrastructure as well as establishing their Building Communities Fund which supports local charities and good causes. Read more about this story at essentialsuffolk.com/hh1000

More news can always be found at www.essentialsuffolk.com/content

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

WHAT’S ON JUNE 30 – JULY 2

JULY 2

Maverick Festival

Great Finborough Open Gardens

20 Questions

DanceEast, Ipswich, 4pm & 7pm Easton Farm Park, Woodbridge See festivals feature pages 10 to 15 Tickets: £20 – £95 www.maverickfestival.co.uk

With at least 17 gardens open throughout the village as well as a small classic car display.

There will be teas in two of the gardens as well as a plant stall and tombola. Raising funds for EACH.

DanceEast Associate Artist Unit presents their first full-length performance.

Tickets: £10 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk Oliver!

The Cut, Halesworth, 7.30pm

JULY 1 JULY 4 Farmers Markets

Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Metfield Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm Open Air Cinema

Christchurch Park, Ipswich Ipswich Borough Council presents a full day of Open Air Cinema – experience the magic of your favourite films at the open! Finding Dory (U) – 10am, Jurassic World (12) – 1pm, Bridget Jones’s Baby (15) – 7.30pm.

Tickets: £5 Box Office: 01473 433100

Mini Mammoths: Ice Age

Ipswich Museum, 10.15am Join our interactive session for young children and their parents, grandparents or carers exploring collections through a mixture of plays, stories, trails, craft and science activities designed to encourage development, communication and curiosity about the world around us.

Tickets: £2.20 Box Office: 01473 433100

JULY 5 Purple Zeppelin

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Featured in the BBC TV documentary ‘The Joy of the Guitar Riff ’, Purple Zeppelin pay tribute to the two greatest rock bands of all time, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin.

Tickets: £19 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk Saxmundham Craft Fayre

Market Hall Handmade cards, cakes, quilts, fabric goods, wood ware, jewellery and many other items are on display and crafters like nothing more than to talk about their skills and how their goods are made.

JULY 1 – 2 Art and Flower Festival

Blaxhall Village Hall & Blaxhall Chuch Art exhibition at the village hall and flower festival at the church. The Flower Festival theme is Butterfies. Refreshments all day, plus music, hand bells, crafts, table tennis, children’s games and more.

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/ whats-on-in-suffolk

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A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Bringing Charles Dickens’ beloved novel to life, Lionel Bart’s stage musical takes audiences on a thrilling adventure through Victorian England.

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 0300 3033 211

JULY 8 – 9 Martlesham Heath Centenary Weekend

A full weekend of events. Includes fly-bys, military and civilian vintage vehicles, Brentwood Imperial Marching Youth Band (Sunday) plus a huge stage of events on both days. www.mh100.org.uk

Christchurch Mansion, 7.30pm A Midsummer night, an enchanted forest.

Puck and his magical fairy band tell a tale of lovers, mechanicals, and magical mayhem.

The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons present their innovative and hilarious open-air version of Shakespeare’s timeless comedy – told, as ever, in their own distinctive and anarchic style.

Tickets: £8 Box Office: 01473 433100 Sons of Pitches: SOPTV

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Celebrate the world of TV in an a cappella adventure; from terrestrial to digital, from tacky to wacky, in full HD. Hear your favourite TV themes, sketches about panel shows, quiz shows and talent competitions, and more... all using the human voice.

Tickets: £29.50 - £24.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JULY 9 Kingfisher Sinfonietta Concert

Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh The Kingfisher Sinfonietta comes to Aldeburgh before the summer break. Led by its founder Beth Spendlove, she is soloist in Mozart's Violin Concerto No.4 in D, often said to be his most popular.

Conducted by the world-renowned musician Elgar Howarth.

Tickets: from Riley & Riley Jewellers in the High St. 01728 452431 or Caramel Boutique at Snape Maltings 01728 687467. Also available at the door.

Farmers Markets

Assington The Barn, 10am – 2pm

JULY 12 – 15 Sister Act

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich JULY 8 Farmers Markets

Halesworth Town Centre, 9am – 1pm Nayland Village Hall, 10am – 1.30pm Stonham Barns Market Square, 10am – 2pm Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

After the huge success of Cats, Oliver!, The Phantom of the Opera and Starlight Express, The Co-op Juniors Theatre Company raises the roof and shouts hallelujah with the smash hit musical comedy Sister Act. Tickets: £20.50 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

What’s On JULY 13 – 16

JULY 18

JULY 21

Latitude Festival

Tarantiseismic

Henham Park, Southwold

DanceEast, Ipswich, 7.30pm

Stand By Me: A Celebration of Ben E King and The Drifters

See festivals feature pages 10 to 15 www.latitudefestival.com

Following a sell-out performance last year, National Youth Dance Company return to DanceEast with their latest production created by 2016-2017 Guest Artistic Director Damien Jalet.

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

JULY 15 Time Hackers

HEG (High Street Exhibition Gallery), Ipswich, 1.30pm & 3.30pm A group of children ignore Grandma’s warning about the old games console in the attic, and find themselves sucked into a virtual world full of curious characters and perplexing problems. A unique chance to see this exciting adventure story for young audiences, fresh from its tour of local primary schools.

Tickets: £10 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk Farmers Markets

Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Harkstead Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Needham Market Alder Carr Farm, 9am – 1pm

Mozart Summer Concert

St Mary’s Church, Bungay A feast of largely British music, featuring local soprano Rebecca Hunt and the glorious sounds of the solo harp (Alexander Rider), should tempt listeners to spend a summer evening enjoying the gorgeously luminous scoring of some of our British composers at the Mozart Orchestra’s Bungay Festival concert.

Tickets: £10 – no reserved seats Tickets: Terry Reeve 01986 896416 www.ticketsource.co.uk/mozartorchestra

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/ whats-on-in-suffolk

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm The musical history of one of the biggest selling bands of all time, told through anecdotes of former members on screen, alongside the vast succession of hits, including Under the Boardwalk, Saturday Night at the Movies, Up on the Roof, On Broadway and many more.

Tickets: £26 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JULY 22 Viva Santana

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 8pm Voted into the top five must-see tribute bands by Classic Rock Magazine, the sevenpiece Viva Santana features Spanish guitar wizard Marcos Rodriguez on electric and acoustic guitar and a full line up to match Carlos Santana’s Abraxas days. Expect classy guitar licks over danceable percussion.

Tickets: £20 (£18 concessions) Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

NATIONAL DANCE COMPANY WALES FRIDAY 22 & SATURDAY 23 SEPTEMBER | 7.30PM Tickets from £12, £9 concessions

Age suitability 11+ years

SCOTTISH DANCE THEATRE FRIDAY 20 & SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER | 7.30PM Tickets from £12, £9 concessions

SEE BOTH COMPANIES FOR £20 simply book Saturday night performances by 1 September

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

And Here I Am

JULY 26 – 28

JULY 28

Made in Dagenham

The Bob Dylan Story

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

Based on historical events of the Ford Dagenham strike of the swinging 60s, the show follows factory girl Rita O’Grady who must balance her role at home as she becomes an unlikely feminist icon in the battle for equal pay. It’s a battle that strains her relationship with her family to the limit, but Rita and her friends prove that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when they stand together.

Tickets: £16 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

Experience a Dylan concert from the 1960s. The Bob Dylan Story includes classic songs such as Blowin’ In The Wind, Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door, Subterranean Homesick Blues and All Along The Watchtower.

Tickets: £20 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

The Cut, Halesworth, 7.30pm A new Palestinian production called And Here I Am touring the UK this summer. A one man show that explores the coming of age story of Palestinian freedom fighter turned actor, Ahmed Tobasi. Performed by Tobasi himself, with a script penned by award winning Iraqi-British writer Hassan Abdulrazzak, this production is a journey through identity that takes us from the first intifada to the second, from his role as a resistance fighter to an artist, from life as a refugee in Palestine, to a refugee in Norway.

Tickets: £10 Box Office: 01986 873285 Farmers Market

Farmers Market

Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

Sudbury St Peter’s Church, 9.30am – 2pm JULY 26 – AUGUST 27

JULY 23

As You Like It

JULY 28 – 30

Jimmy’s Farm, Ipswich Farmers Market

Lavenham Village Hall, 10am – 1.30pm

See mini preview pages 26 & 27 Tickets: £25.50 Box Office: 01473 603388 www.redrosechain.com

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/whats-on-in-suffolk

The sleep of your dreams…

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Wool Room Sleep Studio, Sycamore Farm, Somersham Road Bramford, Ipswich IP8 4NN. T: 01473 831723/07477 090 745 E: thewoolroomea@gmail.com Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am – 4pm Call us to arrange a visit at any other time.

www.thewoolroom.com 20

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Mekonville

Lafitts Hall, Pettaugh www.mekonville.co.uk English National Sheepdog Trials

Haughley Park, Stowmarket www.suffolkonshow.co.uk For both these events see mini preview pages 26 & 27

What’s On An Alternative Auditorium

JULY 29

AUGUST 1 – SEPTEMBER 1

Supersonic 70s Show

Snape Proms

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

Snape Maltings, Suffolk

Enjoy music by Queen, The Carpenters, ELO, 10cc, Wings, David Essex, Abba, Sweet, Suzi Quatro, Boney M, The Osmonds, David Cassidy, Elton John, Kiki Dee, T.Rex and all your other favourite 70’s artists.

Tickets: £17.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

See festivals feature pages 10 to 15 Box Office: 01728 687110

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

AUGUST 4 Farmers Markets

Stowmarket Market Place, 9am – 1.30pm Suffolk Youth Orchestra

Step back in time as you supper in style on the stage of Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, with the performances delivered from the auditorium! See the Theatre as if you were treading the boards yourself, while a cabaret of local acts takes you on a journey through its history, performing well-known classics, scenes of years gone by, plus treats you may never have seen before.

Tickets: £35 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

Snape Maltings Concert Hall

JULY 30 Suffolk Dog Day

Helmingham Hall

This is no ordinary day in the doggy diary, but a day to celebrate our furry friends in all their guises. Enjoy a great day out with your dogs, family and friends. There are fun dog classes with great prizes, agility, dog scurry and lots of attractions and trade stands to keep everyone entertained.

Tickets: £10 www.suffolkdogday.com

Elgar’s rarely-heard symphonic prelude is an apt choice for a homecoming concert after a Polish tour. Enigma Variations with its central slow movement – Nimrod – has come to symbolise a nation, used at times of country-wide celebration and commemoration alike.

Tickets: £18 Box Office: 01728 687110

AUGUST 5 Farmers Markets

AUGUST 6 The Fair on the Green, Southwold

A fantastic day out in the world famous seaside town; the antiques and collectors fair is held every year on the first Sunday in August on the green. More than 120 stalls selling everything from collectables to genuine antiques.

Entry: free www.eastcoastevents.net

Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Metfield Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm

Welcome to The Pier, Felixstowe and Shotley’s newest restaurant, bar and terrace… in Harwich!

ARRIVE BY FERRY

TO BOOK OR NOT TO BOOK. THE CHOICE IS YOURS.

C AT C H T H E F E R RY TO DAY !

Online: www.milsomhotels.com/the-pier

Phone: 01728 666329

Walk ins: just turn up when you like Phone to book: 01255 241212

HARWICH

Shotley

7 mins

Felixstowe

15 mins

Online: www.harwichharbourferry.com

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What’s On Glemham Hall

Suffolk Coast Cycle Ride Starting and finishing at the elegant Elizabethan mansion Glemham Hall, there’s a choice of two scenic routes of 35 & 65 miles and a longer 100 mile route. All routes head north through pretty countryside and villages before dividing – the short route then swings east towards Dunwich on the coast, while the longer one continues north to reach Covehithe with its curious Russian Doll churches. Following the coast south, the long route re-joins the short route near Dunwich, crossing open heathland back to finish back at Glemham Hall where you will find massage, refreshments, live music and a bar.

Entry: £19.50 adults, £8.50 12-14 year olds Information: 0117 9897080 ellie@bike-events.co.uk

dazzling jewels to Snape. Heard back-to-back over the course of a single evening, it’s a reminder of Bach’s brilliance and invention, and of the outstanding line-up of virtuoso instrumentalists in Robert King’s period instrument ensemble.

Tickets: £30 Box Office: 01728 687110

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 2.30pm Ballroom, Latin and Rock & Roll... just turn up and join in!

Entry: free www.theapex.co.uk

Glemham Hall, Suffolk See festivals feature pages 10 to 15 Tickets: £115 www.folkeast.co.uk

AUGUST 13

This latest production features a fantastic new line-up of smash hits spanning the 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s, plus more side-splitting comic sketches, all performed live on stage Tickets: £25 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

Farmers Markets

Assington, The Barn, 10am – 2pm

AUGUST 14 The King’s Consort

Snape Maltings Concert Hall Full of life, zest, variety and colour, Bach’s four glorious orchestral suites contain some of the most uplifting of all baroque instrumental music. The King’s Consort bring these

AUGUST 25 Farmers Market

Sudbury, St Peter’s Church, 9.30am – 2pm

AUGUST 25 – 27 Maui Waui

Peak Hill Farm, Theberton AUGUST 19 Farmers markets

Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Harkstead Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Needham Market Alder Carr Farm, 9am – 1pm

Beccles Antiques Street Market

The market plays host to a hundred general and specialist dealers selling a wide range of good quality antiques and collectables including furniture, silver, china, linen, jewellery, books, clocks, retro and vintage design and decorative items. Many of the local shops and restaurants and bars are open that day and first class local street food catering is incorporated into the market, including a hog roast.

Entry: free

Two of the most powerful and awardwinning voices of this century appear in concert together for the very first time.

Kerry Ellis and Matt Cardle will take to the stage for an epic evening.

Tickets: £40 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

That’ll be the Day

Farmers Markets

Halesworth Town Centre, 9am – 1pm Nayland Village Hall, 10am – 1.30pm Stonham Barns Market Square, 10am – 2pm Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

FolkEast

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Strictly Saturdays

Matt Cardle & Kerry Ellis

AUGUST 18 – 20

AUGUST 18 AUGUST 12

AUGUST 23 – 24

See mini preview pages 26 & 27 www.mauiwauievents.co.uk

AUGUST 26 Sabar Drum & Kora Evening

The Cut, Halesworth, 7.30pm AUGUST 19 – 21 Aldeburgh Carnival

See mini preview pages 26 & 27 www.aldeburghcarnival.com

AUGUST 20 AND 21 Thorpeness Regatta

Come and hear the explosive sounds of the Sabar drums, played with hand and stick.

The popular master drummer from Senegal, Modou Diouf, will play with his band Jappo to create loud, exciting rhythms and cross rhythms, guaranteed to get you dancing!

Tickets: £8 Box Office: 01986 873285

Thorpeness Meare, 10am

AUGUST 26

Sailing spectacular for children and grownups alike. The meare opened in June 1913 and the first impromptu regatta took place on the August Bank Holiday. The annual tradition continues with sailing events including canoeing and kayaking for children under sixteen years of age. www.thorpnessmeare.co.uk

Farmers Market

Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

AUGUST 27 Farmers Market

Lavenham Village Hall, 10am – 1.30pm

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/whats-on-in-suffolk We cannot guarantee inclusion in print but all suitable listings will be included online

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

CLANGERS, BAGPUSS & CO Ipswich Art Gallery. June – October 28 The magical worlds of The Clangers and Bagpuss are explored in a new exhibition at the Ipswich Art Gallery in High Street. Clangers, Bagpuss & Co is the first major retrospective of Smallfilms – Firmin and Postgate’s influential and much-loved production company – and includes films not seen for decades.

AS YOU LIKE IT Jimmy’s Farm, Wherstead, Ipswich.

July 26 – August 27 It’s a true highlight of the summer and, after the roaring success of The Tempest in 2016, this year Red Rose Chain’s Theatre in the Forest production is As You Like It. It’s one of Shakespeare’s most bewitching comedies and features some of his best-loved characters.

Forget the rules of romance… Orlando and Rosalind have their own ideas. Escape into the magical woodland of Jimmy’s Farm to enjoy a world of unforgettable adventure.

Full of rivalry, redemption and a most-unexpected wedding!

Packed with engaging energy, music and dance – Theatre in the Forest is an ideal introduction to Shakespeare for all ages.

Clangers © Smallfilms, Image © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Originating from the V&A Museum of Childhood it will delight not only those who grew up with these iconic characters but also a new generation of children enjoying The Clangers on CBeebies. Created by Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin and filmed in a barn, these characters brought new life to children’s television.

Oliver Postgate’s voice and Peter Firmin’s puppets and artwork are cornerstones of 20th century British culture and their quirky and inventive programmes shaped the childhood memories of millions. As well as telling the story of Bagpuss and The Clangers, the exhibition goes behind the scenes of some of their other creations: Pogles Wood, Noggin the Nog and Ivor the Engine.

Visitors can see Oliver Postgate’s stop-motion film camera, adapted using a small motor and bits of Meccano, learn why Bagpuss changed from orange to pink, and find out what Major Clanger was really saying from original shooting scripts.

They can also try their hand at animating the characters using current technology and learn to speak ‘Clanger’.

The Mayor of Ipswich, Sarah Barber says, “The warm nostalgia many of us hold for these iconic TV characters is something to celebrate and indulge in. The skills that Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin put into creating these characters and programmes should be cherished, too, and they are openly celebrated in this exhibition.”

INFORMATION Entrance: Free www.cimuseums.org.uk 26

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INFORMATION Tickets: Tuesday to Thursday; concessions £10, over 60s £18, Full Price £23.50. Friday and Saturday; concessions £12, over 60s £20, Full Price £25.50. Box Office: 01473 603388 www.theatreintheforest.com

MEKONVILLE Lafitts Hall, Pettaugh. July 28 – 30 Forty years ago a group of art students went into pub, picked up the instruments of a punk band that was performing that day, and started playing. They went on to form the highly influential Mekons – a band that started off playing punk but over the years have been pivotal in the development of Americana.

This summer, at Lafitts Hall in Pettaugh The Mekons' current and original line-ups will play together for the first time to celebrate this anniversary. The band, now based in America, is still going strong applying its customary anarchic approach to country music and Americana. ‘Mekonville’ is being held at the home of Andy Corrigan; artist, musician and music entrepreneur – one of the founder members.

It will celebrate the journey of the band from punk to folk, country music and alternative rock but encompass exciting new art and music. Plus, there will be an array of other attractions over the weekend including live music, DJs, poetry, films, children’s crafts and plenty of games.

Mini Previews Mekonville will be the first time the original line up have played a full show since the late 70s and the only time that both versions of the band have been on the same continent, let alone the same stage. Many dedicated Mekons fans of past and present from around the world are predicted to descend on rural Suffolk for this event.

see some of the very best sheepdogs in the country in action.

It will be a wonderful family day out for the start of the holiday season.”

Tickets are available pre-booked via the website at £10 per adult or for £12 on the day. Children under 16 and car parking are free.

INFORMATION www.suffolkonshow.co.uk

ALDEBURGH CARNIVAL August 19 – 21 Tickets numbers are limited, so early booking is advised.

INFORMATION www.mekonville.co.uk

ENGLISH NATIONAL SHEEPDOG TRIALS & SUFFOLK ON SHOW

Of course one of the coastal highlights of the summer in Suffolk is the Aldeburgh Carnival. For 75 years now this weekend of celebration has brought people together for an event that’s like no other. This year, as there’s an anniversary to mark; the organising committee has been long at work to make this year’s carnival really stand out.

Haughley Park, Stowmarket.

July 28, 29 and 30

Keith Batt, who is in charge of publicity and special events says although the main events in Aldeburgh run from the Saturday, there’s to be a Carnival Prom at Snape Maltings the previous evening. It will feature light British classics with music from The Archers to the Dambusters.

Sheepdogs are said to be the cleverest, most reliable and most obedient of dogs and watching them work is always entertaining. And for the first time ever Suffolk is hosting the English National Sheepdog Trials at the Suffolk On Show event at Haughley Park.

The music theme continues all the next day with five bandstands set up throughout the town with performances of all genres to suit the visitors. There will also be the traditional yacht race on the front, Punch and Judy and donkey rides as well.

Organised by the International Sheepdog Society, the English National Sheepdog Championships are the pinnacle of the English Sheepdog trial season, with handlers and dogs competing for the coveted title of English National Champion 2017.

The weekend will also include what’s known as the minimarathon – a 10k event that last year attracted 300 people and says Keith. Some ran, some walked and some people even took their dogs. As ever the grand finale is on the 21st which starts with the traditional launch of the lifeboat at 11am followed by a display from the Royal Air Force Falcons who will be parachuting onto the beach – something that’s never been done before in Suffolk.

The trials are coming to Suffolk courtesy of the Williams family, owners of Haughley Park. The event will also provide visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a range of attractions showcasing the best of Suffolk’s history, agriculture, food and drink, industry, arts and crafts.

Chairman of the organising committee, Bob Wilden, says, “This is a unique and one off event for Suffolk and, we believe, one not to be missed. We hope to showcase some of the very best things about our County. There promises to be something for everyone at the event, all held in a truly magnificent setting. It’s not often people in the region get to

The grand parade is being led by the British Imperial Military Band, followed by the Carnival Queen Shannon Strowger, who this year is being attended by not just junior attendants but 36 former carnival queens dating back to the 1950s. Keith says the day will also include performances by the Suffolk School of Samba.

At the end of the day, there will be an iconic lantern procession down to the beach at sunset which is followed by the fireworks.

INFORMATION www.aldeburghcarnival.com

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

ARTon the AIRFIELD When the American Air Force left USAF Bentwaters few could have imagined that the airfield they left behind would be turned into a creative hub for film, music and art.

Anne Gould reports

D

uring the depths of the Cold War when Berlin was divided by a wall, when a metaphorical ‘iron curtain’ closed off Russia, East Germany, Poland, the Baltic States and beyond, Bentwaters air base in Rendlesham played a strategic role in defending the threat from the east. For more than 40 years the skies over Suffolk were patrolled by squadrons of high tech fighter jets and fighter bombers that were stationed at the site. Then in 1993 the runways fell silent, the roar of the A-10 Thunderbolts disappeared and Rendlesham’s ‘Little America’ moved on and was forgotten.

For a while the site remained largely empty, inhabited only by rabbits, wildlife and butterflies but now it is quietly bustling again; the aircraft hangers are being filled and office buildings being put to a new and more creative use. Sarah Brown, director of Bentwaters Parks, a family run business that owns the 1,000 acre site says the former airfield has become much sought after as a set for numerous films and TV series.

The action film Fast and Furious 6 was shot on the runway she says plus two series of Detectorists, but it’s also been used for numerous music videos, documentaries, car adverts and stunt work. “Actually we are now trying to promote the airfield as a creative hub for the county and will shortly be seeking planning permission to build a film studio on site,”

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she explained. The idea is to have a 40,000 foot purpose built ‘sound stage’ that will utilise green technologies to accommodate film set builds and larger crews.

One such film maker who has made use of the vast Bentwaters site, with its unique open landscape of empty runways and scattered bunkers and warehouses, is Lucinda Rhodes Thakrar. Lucinda, is one of the UK’s rising female film-makers from Suffolk-based production company, Picture Perfect and she recently chose to shoot her new football gangster movie, Escape, on site.

The actress turned film producer, moved to Suffolk two years ago and says that the facilities at Rendlesham were perfect for their needs. “I saw what the site offered a while back and knew I would use it as a location because it has everything we need.

Bentwaters | Art on the Airfield When we moved here from London I wasn’t sure that we’d done the right thing for a couple of days because it was so quiet but now I love it here and I can’t believe the opportunities it offers film makers.”

Lucinda, who works with her husband Jeet, said that the film industry is very London-based but with Skype and FaceTime it’s now possible to have meetings online, besides which they’ve discovered an ample number of talented film professionals locally. “I sent out one thing on social media looking for extras and got 500 emails back from people right across Suffolk with every skill set you could possibly want.”

She says they make every effort to employ local people and are also committed to helping young people progress within the industry too. Escape, her current production, is a gangster film with a football theme connected to the next World Cup in Russia. It involves lots of action she says and will be released on DVD in time for Christmas. After that she has funding for three more films, of different genres and will be seeking locations and crew for these too.

Meanwhile on the far side of the runway, musician and rock star Jesse Quin, the bass player from Keane has been creating waves in the artistic community with a development known as Old Jet. He launched the project in 2012 and at the start did much of the renovations himself.

“A lot of work needed to be done, the ceilings had fallen in and it took months.” Then out of nowhere, he says, photographers artists, musicians, designers and writers started asking if there was space available where they could work.

“To start with I was just looking for somewhere to set up my own music studio but I kept meeting lots of interesting people and I quickly realised that many people in Suffolk work in isolation and so Old Jet became a creative hub.” From the outside it looks very much like an ordinary office block but inside there are various communal areas – a kitchen/meeting area, a small cosy library, a ‘hot desk’ room for those wanting temporary office space and a small performance area.

To date there are 30 people using various studios at OId Jet

and in fact says Jesse it’s now full up with a waiting list of people who want to move there too. “There’s a real sense of family here. People talk to each other, collaborate and have ideas. There’s a nice atmosphere. I love the place and love being here and would quite happily live here. I get quite excited about what happens when creative people come together.”

Old Jet has been such a success that he’s also taken on the old Flight Simulator building which is currently undergoing renovations. Already a large photographic/video studio has been created with high ceilings offering a vast blank canvas but it also has the advantage of being able to be shut off from the rest of the building. In due course he’s also planning a residential state of the art recording studio here too.

He explained that when bands want to record albums being able to stay in one place and concentrate without distraction makes the whole process much easier. There’s more too. Jesse, who grew up in Framlingham and went to Thomas Mills has a passion for film. Together with local film expert Neil McGlone, he’s been running a monthly film club at Jet, which screens classic and iconic films that you might never get to see at your local multiplex.

Coming up in July is a film from the ‘60s; The Apartment.

Assault on Precinct 16 will be screened in August.

But next year he’s planning something much more ambitious – an Old Jet Film Festival. “We hope to have space for up to 3,000 people camping on site possibly in May or September and we will be showing films in the Flight Simulator,” he added. Alongside this – and helping to finance the work at Old Jet – is a storage facility for stages equipment.

Currently Adele’s set is in storage on site as are various sets belonging to Andrew Lloyd Webber.

INFORMATION www.oldjet.co.uk

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MAKING WAVES Suffolk is renowned for its magnificent estuaries and waterways and in particular, the stretch of water at the mouth of the Stour and Orwell has long played its part in history. Anne Gould looks at a ferry service that is helping to fuel a tourism boom on both sides of the river

T

he sign at the Languard Fort car park says that to take the ferry from Suffolk to Essex you need to stride out along the beach and look for the yellow flag. It’s early June and, unusually for so early in the summer, it is one of those windless humid days when there’s already a haze on the horizon by mid-morning. There’s not a ripple on the sea and the estuary is as still as a millpond. Children are paddling ankle deep at the water’s edge, throwing balls for swimming dogs.

Further along, there are even one or two brave souls bathing.

Despite the stillness of the day, the Stour estuary is a place that bustles with activity. Across the water a cross-channel ferry eases out from its hiding place at Parkeston on the opposite bank, then a giant cargo ship sea laden with multi-

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coloured containers slides into sight and there’s any number of becalmed yachts making slow but sure progress by motor out into the North Sea. Big ships or not, all eyes are fixed on a distant yellow and white dot – the Harwich Harbour Ferry – that’s steadily getting bigger and bigger. A queue of day-trippers and cyclists are waiting to make the next crossing and there’s a rush of late comers crunching across the shingle eager not to miss the boat.

For holidaymakers in Suffolk – a day out in Harwich has started to become a thing; in part because the regular ferry service means that you don’t have a long drive to get there but there’s the novelty factor that this service brings too. According to Christian Zeeman who has re-energised the ferry service

since he took over in 2015, more than 30,000 people made the journey last year. This year he anticipates that numbers will be even higher and says that although the boat can accommodate 54 people in high season advance booking online is essential.

Christian, who originates from Austria but has always loved water-sports and the sea, says the ferry very much serves the holiday/tourism/day trip market.

“People from Suffolk are heading for a day out, to see some museums, for crabbing on Harwich’s famous Halfpenny Pier, to go walking, have a meal or take a cycle tour. Some take the onward trip to Shotley to go walking.

But the traffic is very much both ways as there are people from Essex who want to see Languard Fort, or walk along the beach to explore the town of Felixstowe.”

Harwich Harbour Ferry

Luckily, for those who want to explore all the estuary has to offer, this summer Christian is expanding his entrepreneurial horizons even further with new services, a second boat and he’s even started cycle hire too. At the weekends from June to September the ferry will run in the evenings, strictly on a pre-booked basis he says, giving people the option of having a meal out.

He’s planning evening trips up the river to Pin Mill, private hire evenings with the option of dinner at The Pier (Harwich) and even harbour tours.

The second boat, which will be in service very soon, will be running seal watching trips from Harwich to Hamford Water – a nature reserve which was the inspiration for Arthur Ransome’s Secret Water. The new prospect of bike hire will give

passengers lots of options – especially as they can take them on the ferry in whatever direction they want to go in.

Christian is clearly passionate about the ferry – although it does mean commuting from Framlingham to Harwich; “When I took over this business it was very much a lifestyle choice.” He said when he and his English wife, Lucy, decided to move back to the UK it was his ambition to run a ferry and that’s what he’s doing.

To start with he re-organised the timetables – there are now hourly crossings every day between April and October with an expanded service in high season. He maintains the service in November and December too with crossings at weekends and during the school holidays. Christian loves the

water so much that he also works two days a week captaining the ferry itself.

With a background in technology, he’s also worked to develop a groundbreaking software system to accommodate selling tickets by Wi-Fi on a small boat. “With people booking their crossings online we always need to know how much space we have got in the boat,” he explained. He’s also continuing to innovate with plans to possibly run ‘adventure’ type boat trips to Sealand and the Greater Gabbard wind farm off the coast.

INFORMATION www.harwichharbourferry.com

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Finance

JULY/AUGUST 2017

PEACE OF MIND IN UNSETTLED TIMES! Grant Buchanan, Financial Planning Partner at Scrutton Bland explains how keeping control of the fees you pay is one way of maintaining stability in a complex financial world.

The latest political turmoil and some shocking events in recent weeks may have created the impression that our country is currently a very uncertain place at the moment. Fluctuating stock markets and changes to tax and pension rules can create the impression of a turbulent financial landscape, but the canny investor knows that these are also opportunities to get your money working harder.

Grant Buchanan Financial Planning Partner

are obvious situations where you will need professional advice, but the need for intelligent and helpful counsel never goes away.

Scrutton Bland provide a defined review service for our clients, helping them to understand how to make an investment plan and working with them to understand their attitude to risk and identifying financial products which are suitable and affordable for them. Our fees are published in our Terms of Business so you will always know what you are paying, and most importantly we work hard to establish a trusted relationship with you to give you peace of mind.

The key to reducing your financial risk in an uncertain market is to select a diverse range of investments across a variety of asset classes such as cash, bonds, properties and equities.

A good financial adviser can help you to control the fees you pay for these investments, and can also help you stay on top of your investments to ensure that your financial plans remain appropriate for your individual circumstances. They will monitor and analyse the changes and trends and will fill investment opportunities for your portfolio to suit different risk profiles and financial objectives.

If you are considering reviewing your investments then it is likely that you will need both financial and tax advice. At Scrutton Bland all of our financial advisers are independent, meaning that they will consider the whole of the market and are not just restricted to a limited range of products. We also have a team of in-house tax specialists who work with our financial advisers to provide a joined-up approach which ensures that your financial arrangements are working in the most efficient way possible.

Whether times are good or bad, you will still need to review your portfolio in the light of your personal situation. Major life events such as coming into an inheritance or selling a business

To find out more speak to Grant Buchanan, Financial Planning Partner on 01206 838436 or grant.buchanan@scruttonbland.co.uk Scrutton Bland is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Quality Carpets & Flooring Excellent Service Highly Competitive Prices from the Largest Independent Stockists in the area Established in 1981 EB Carpets have over 30 years of successful trading in which time we have built a reputation for supplying quality products with service to match.

A family firm we are the area’s largest independent stockist of all types of floor coverings and our fully trained team can advise on the ideal solutions for both domestic and commercial use.

We recognise our customers want both quality and value for money and pride ourselves on consistently delivering both.

We are happy to offer free estimates so whatever you are looking for please give us a call. We look forward to helping you.

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EB Carpets & Flooring 246-248 High Street, Walton, Felixstowe T: (01394) 282538 email:info@ebcarpetsandflooring.co.uk

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• FAMILY RUN BUSINESS • UPLIFT OF EXISTING CARPETS

• ALL FLOOR PREPARATION • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

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Health

DO NOT LET BACK PAIN TAKE OVER YOUR LIFE

Mr. Shaishav Bhagat Consultant Spinal Surgeon

Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital continues to welcome new consultants who have chosen to establish their private practice at the hospital. This month, we meet one of these, Mr. Shaishav Bhagat, Consultant Spinal Surgeon, who discusses the following issues on low back pain; Myths about back pain, how to deal with back pain and when to see a Spinal surgeon.

evidence from NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence) is clear that none of the following would work: brace, traction, foot orthotics, shoe modifications, acupuncture, PENS, TENS, IFT, ultrasound and spinal injections”.

Mr Bhagat begins, “Approximately 80% of the general population will suffer from back pain at some point in their lifespan.

Low back pain is defined as the soreness or stiffness in the back, between the bottom of your rib cage and the top of your legs. In most of cases, specialists will use terms such as ‘non-specific’, ‘mechanical’ or ‘postural’ which means the pain is unlikely to be caused by an infection, a fracture or other disease.

“Most cases of mechanical back pain will improve with time and you may need support in the form of reassurance, self-management advice, minor activity modifications, a suitable exercise programme, spinal manipulation, soft tissue massage and pharmacological management. In rare cases, where there are psychological obstacles to recovery (for example, avoiding normal activities based on inappropriate beliefs about the condition), a combined physical and psychological programme is helpful.

There are a number of prevalent myths about low back pain. Some of the examples are given below.

A number of specialists suggest repairing spinal joint “misalignment” which is an easy idea to sell … but it’s actually hard to do! The lumbar spine joints have strong capsular and ligamentous attachments. They have a specific anatomical shape which keeps them always aligned except in cases like high energy trauma (road traffic accidents, falling from height etc) or where bony destruction has taken place following an infection or cancer. If they are misaligned or dislocated, it would result in significant pain and the inability to stand or maintain erect posture.

Poor posture and crookedness is another popular scapegoat — it seems obvious that posture is relevant. Many professionals assume that back pain is some kind of postural problem that you can exercise your way clear of. Also a number of patients have been prescribed very expensive foot orthotics citing flat foot as a cause of back pain. Some people resort to various therapies like braces, acupuncture, electrotherapy and alternative medicine and none of the above are of proven benefit” Mr Bhagat says. He continues, “the emerging

So how should one go about managing back pain?

Beyond a certain point, for example with pain lasting for longer than four weeks, it is worth consulting a spinal surgeon for further advice and overall co-ordination of treatment modalities.

Diagnostic work up and treatment may include injections or radio-frequency.

Although surgery for back pain is controversial it can be consider in carefully selected patients”.

When to act on the pain “Essentially, it is important to be aware of any back pain symptoms”, Mr Bhagat is keen to stress. “If you experiencing any of the following it is important to speak to your GP” • Pain lasting for more than four to six weeks • Pain is out of proportion for your daily activity or job • Pain is severe and/or not improving, or even getting worse.

Whatever the postural or mechanical causes of back are, there are certain factors doctors will look for which may indicate there is a cause for concern.

These are known as “red flags”, specifically being a previous history of

cancer or diabetes, use of steroids, loss of appetite, weight loss, thoracic back pain, back pain with associated fever, associated sciatica and loss of bowel and bladder control, numbness in groin, buttocks or legs, loss of sexual function along with risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol, immunosuppressive conditions or medications.

It is highly recommended to seek opinion and further investigations when any of the above mentioned risk factors or symptoms are present. Your GP will discuss referral options with you. These conditions are often likely to have other distinctive signs and symptoms and can be diagnosed promptly with appropriate investigations and advice from a spinal surgeon”.

Mr Shaishav Bhagat is a Consultant Spinal Surgeon at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, and his NHS base is at the Ipswich Spinal Unit, Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust. He provides care for a full range of spinal conditions including degenerative disorders, trauma, tumours, infections, deformities and sports related injuries. His areas of further specialisation include minimally invasive key-hole spine surgery and degenerative scoliotic deformity.

Mr Bhagat deals with such cases of back pain on regular basis. He co-ordinates the care for the patients with his team which consists of a highly specialised anaesthetists, a musculoskeletal radiologist, a pain specialist, a physiotherapist, a rheumatologist and other allied healthcare professionals.

Most of the cases of mechanical back pain are treated with well co-ordinated, multi-disciplinary, non-operative management whereas some patients with red flags or risk factors may need surgical input.

Mr Bhagat obtained FRCS in (Trauma and Orthopaedics) at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2010. He undertook extensive training in Spinal surgery during fellowships at reputed centres like Norwich, Cardiff and Cambridge. He was awarded a Eurospine diploma in 2012.

For more information on how to book a private consultation with Mr Bhagat, please get in touch on 01473 851960.

Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital offers a comprehensive range of orthopaedic services, and rapid access to experts in diagnostic and imaging services and physiotherapy for advice and treatment. Find out more at www.nuffieldhealth.com/ipswichhospital.

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Business Profile | Ufford Park

JULY/AUGUST 2017

HIDDEN TREASURE FOR ALL TO ENJOY Get away from it all, relax and unwind at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa where our friendly, helpful staff are committed to ensuring your visit is perfect

Our family-run and owned hotel boasts spacious rooms, many with balconies where you can relax and enjoy beautiful views over 120 acres of historic parkland.

Savor a lovely meal in the recently refurbished Park Restaurant, taking in fantastic views over our award-winning golf course, or chill in the quiet lounge whilst planning what to do next. The restaurant is open every evening or for private lunches. Alternatively, relax in The Park Bar and choose from our extensive bar snack menu, which is served all day offering a wide choice of fresh locally-sourced food, as well as a separate afternoon tea and children’s menu.

Golfers can wile away many hours on our 18 hole, par 71 golf course, practice their stroke in Suffolk’s only 2-tier floodlit driving range, browse around the AmericanGolf superstore or visit

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The DoctorGolf Teaching Academy to perfect your swing. Pay and Play golf starts from as little as £20.

For those living further afield, stay in one of our 90 en-suite bedrooms from just £99 per person.

Last summer, Congo Rapids: Lost World Adventure Golf Course was an added addition to the golf offerings at Ufford Park and is great fun for families of all ages.

All facilities are available to residents or non-residents, seven days a week. We are easily accessible from the A12 with ample free parking and free wi-fi available throughout the hotel.

If you don’t fancy golf, our Health Club has a 15m deck-level pool with Gym, or if exercise isn’t your thing visit our Thermal Suite Spa where you can relax, revitalise or restore in the hydro-pool, aroma steam room, mineral grotto or lay down and look at the ‘stars’ in the relaxation zone. Beauty Therapists are always at hand to offer a wide choice of body and facial treatments too.

Use us a base to explore; visit the many local attractions including Sutton-Hoo, Framlingham and Orford Castle, the world-famous Snape Maltings, or the coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold… and of course, the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

We are a dog-friendly hotel with a two mile ‘trim trail’ which you can walk or run around with or without a dog!

INFORMATION Ufford Park, Yarmouth Rd, Melton Woodbridge, IP12 1QW Tel: 0844 847 9467 reception@uffordpark.co.uk www.uffordpark.co.uk

Fashion

THE HEAT IS ON! Long, hot, hazy summer days call for cool sundresses. Dress them up with matching accessories or just relax in loose, easy style. This selection can be found at leading Suffolk independent retailers

Soaked in Luxury Bell maxi dress £84.99 Laura Jane Boutique

Sylvian Heach Ricigliano dress £120 Holly Blue Boutique

Yest print dress £58 Adams Apple

Black and white dress £48 Ninni Noo Boutique

Soaked in Luxury Iman maxi dress £84.99 Laura Jane Boutique

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

Emreca striped dress £47 Adams Apple

Viccio maxi dress £99.50 Caramel Snape Maltings

1950s spottted dress £58 Vintage Angels

Off the shoulder dress also available in navy £42.50 Ninni Noo Boutique

Bombshell flowery dress £38 Vintage Angels

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Fashion

HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS The bags are packed, but there’s always room for a few extra accessories!

Stylish sunglasses £10 Cake & Catwalk

Essential SUFFOLK

Suzanne Betttley gold trilby hat (also avaialble in silver) £22 Caramel Snape Maltings

always proud ~ to feature ~

LOCAL RETAILERS

Powder beach bag £25 Caramel Snape Maltings Large brimmed sun hat £14 Cake & Catwalk

Yaya suede espadrille wedge heel shoes also available in grey £49.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Silver sandals £38.99 Moose Lifestyle & Interiors Yaya multicolored stripes scarf £29.95 Laura Jane Boutique

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Fashion

JULY/AUGUST 2017

Summer bag £40 Cake & Catwalk Freya Sweetheart Padded Bikini Top £36 Sundance Cobalt hipster Brief £21 Sweet Dreams

Freya Sundance Cobalt cross over dress £46 Sweet Dreams

Sparkly summer shoes in rose-gold or silver £15 Cake & Catwalk

STOCKISTS

Snape Maltings Snape Suffolk IP17 1SP

01728 687467

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Adams Apple 70 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384685 Cake & Catwalk 15 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich. T: 01473 235573 www.cakeandcatwalk.co.uk Caramel Snape Maltings. T: 01728 687467 www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk Holly Blue Boutique 72 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382300 Laura Jane Boutique 89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 386686 Moose Lifestyle & Interiors 20a Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394382691 Ninni Noo Boutique 57 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 388655 Sweet Dreams 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 380306 Vintage Angels Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh.

T: 07879 630461

Essential Explores Summer

Essential explores...

SUMMER With the prospect of a long hot summer ahead of us Essential Suffolk has taken a look at some favourite places in our beautiful county with plenty of ideas for Essential Summer fun

Essential Explores the Coast

Essential Explores the Coast

Stretching north from Felixstowe the Suffolk coast has something for everyone. Traditional seaside fun, beautiful beaches, vibrant market towns and villages perfect for shopping, eating and drinking and of course miles of Heritage Coast a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Southwold

For those of us who live here we are lucky to have such gems on our doorstep and perhaps at times are guilty of not taking full advantage of all that surrounds us. For visitors to our county, it is a magnet that continues to draw them back and tempt many to make Suffolk their home.

The home of Adnams, Southwold is a mecca for many visitors to the county. Sandy beaches, a vibrant harbour – with Harbour Inn, fun filled pier, historic naval battles and iconic beach huts all combining to make it a perfect seaside town.

Food and drink are at the heart of Southwold with a host of award winning pubs, restaurants and cafes. Add to this a strong local retail offering and a day out in Southwold may see you leaving with more than just nice memories.

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Dunwich In Anglo Saxon times Dunwich was the capital of the ‘Kingdom of the Eastern Angles’. It was an international port equivalent in size to London of the 14th century however relentless coastal erosion means that today, in size, it is no more than small village. However don’t let size deceive you; Dunwich has plenty to offer. It is a great base for walking, there’s the historic Greyfriars ruins – the remains of a Franciscan priory, Dingle Tea Rooms and nursery, the Dunwich museum and it can also lay claim to being the home to England’s oldest fig tree in the magnificent pub garden of The Ship Inn. (see dining review page 60)

Walberswick Sandy beaches, riverside walks, a picturesque village green with cafes and shops; Walberswick never disappoints.

Once the home of the national crabbing championship, there are few nicer ways to while away the hours than to dangle a fishing line off a footbridge before heading off for something excellent to eat at the village’s renowned ‘foodie’ pubs.

EELS FOOT

THE MIDDLETON BELL

e Eel’s Foot nestles in the pretty hamlet of Eastbridge in the heart of the Heritage Coast

Set in the beautiful village of Middleton in the heart of the Heritage Coast

Perfectly situated for birdwatching, walking and cycling a warm welcome is guaranteed. Recently featured in e Telegraph’s top 10 Best UK beer gardens, winner of Adnams best presented pub and voted for by EADT readers as Suffolk’s pub of the year 2016

e perfect venue to meet friends and family.

Serving a wide range of Adnams beers, spirits and wines with a traditional pub menu and modern European influenced daily specials. ere are plenty of options for customers with specific dietary requirements, not forgetting children and of course plenty of treats for dogs!

OPENING HOURS 12.00pm till 3.00pm, 6.00pm till 11.00pm, Monday – ursday 11.30am till 11.30pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday (Food served all day Friday – Sunday) 01728 830154 | theeeelsfootinn@hotmail.co.uk www.theeelsfootinn.co.uk

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Now under new ownership from the team that are behind the success of their sister pub the Eels Foot, offers top quality food using the best local produce.

Dine in the garden, traditional bar area or the beautiful beamed restaurant and enjoy home cooked food and ales directly from the cask.

Four legged friends are always welcome too!

OPENING HOURS 12.00pm till 3.00pm, 6.00pm till 11.00pm, Tuesday – Saturday 12.00pm till 9.00pm, Sunday (Food served 12.00pm till 2.30pm, 6.00pm till 9.00pm, Tuesday – Saturday, 12.00 till 5.00pm, Sunday).

Booking advised.

01728 648286 | e Street, Middleton, IP17 3NN

Essential Explores Summer

Aldeburgh

Thorpeness

This pretty seaside town has been named as one of the top places to live in the UK by the Sunday Times. A town that lives beside its beach, the sea is always only a stone’s throw away and with it fresh fish, seagulls and a picture postcard boating lake. While it is famous for its fish and chips it is so much more, it is a cultural hub for the county there is always something going on in the town with music and art at its heart. Aldeburgh offers a great choice of independent retailers, restaurants and cafes so whether you’re looking for fashion, food or relaxed pavement café culture you will find it here. If shopping is your thing retail therapy isn’t just confined to the high street as the ‘six hidden secrets’ of Aldeburgh at Hall Farm Road, just off Saxmundham Road is another shopping destination. With vintage clothing, garden centre, pet food shop, café, furniture and curios it is well worth an investigation. (see our new Aldeburgh dog walk page 54)

There can be few more recognisable images of Suffolk than the ‘House in the clouds’ and the colourful rowing boats on Thorpeness Meare, both of which can be found in this delightful village. Much of Thorpeness was designed as a fantasy holiday village by wealthy Scottish barrister Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, who bought swathes of land in the area in the early 1900s, and today it remains a must visit destination for tourists and locals alike. With a James Braid designed golf course, beautiful beach and a host of refreshment options including The Dolphin and Thorpeness Hotel no summer is complete without a visit.

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THE BEST PLACE TO EAT

THE CATCH OF THE DAY IS RIGHT BY THE SEA

For the freshest sh and shell sh and the best sea views in Aldeburgh, book a table in our Seafood & Grill, or dine alfresco on our terrace.

And don’t forget to look out for our fantastic selection of Gins!

Book now on 01728 452071

brudenellhotel.co.uk The Brudenell, The Parade, Aldeburgh IP15 5BU

TIME FOR TEA Our seaside restaurant offers magnificent themed Afternoon Teas featuring a selection of sweet and savoury delights, ideal for a summer treat.

Coming up: July - Parisian August - ‘I do like to be beside the seaside’ September - Traditional English The theme and menu changes monthly. Please pre-book on 01728 452720.

DELICIOUS FOOD AT GREAT PRICES Enjoy two courses for £12.50 or three for £16.50 when you order from our Prix Fixe menu.

Book now on 01728 452720 whitelion.co.uk

White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ

EXOTIC AND STYLISH CUISINE Indulge in an array of regional dishes, from Goan inspired seafood, to tandoori grilled meats and fragrant curries.

THALI IS THE NEW LUNCH Everything you need to enjoy a delicious lunch is all served on one platter, called a Thali. £12 per person. Book now on 01728 451800

seaspice.co.uk White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ

Essential Explores Summer

The Alde & Ore With its mouth at Shingle Street, much loved by kite surfers and WWII history enthusiasts alike, this is a curious river that winds its way parallel to the coast behind a shingle spit.

From the coast to Orford it is known as the River Ore and at some imperceptible point, as far as we can tell, becomes the River Alde as it passes Aldeburgh and in land to Snape ultimately to its source at Laxfield. Recommended places to visit are:

Felixstowe Felixstowe is a town of many contrasts. At its northern tip is Felixstowe Ferry; a pretty hamlet of café, pub, sailing club, foot ferry and fresh fish and at its most southern point Languard Fort – the awesome Port of Felixstowe and a foot ferry to Harwich and the Shotley Peninsula (see page 30).

For those wanting the traditional slots and amusements or a stroll along the prom and a candy floss the sea front in central Felixstowe is the ideal destination. If dining is your aim there are a variety of bars, pubs and restaurants.

ORFORD With its fine medieval castle, pubs, fresh fish and the renowned Pump Street Bakery Orford has something to offer to everyone. Popular with walkers, sailors, cyclists, bird watchers, music and art lovers or those just wanting to relax Orford is quintessentially Suffolk.

Essential Explores Suffolk’s Rivers As well as being blessed with an inspiring coastline Suffolk also has beautiful rivers with five estuaries breaking up the coastline; the Blyth, the Alde/Ore, the Deben, the Orwell, and the Stour. The coast and estuaries provide some of the best leisure sailing on the east coast but even if you aren’t able to see the county from the water there are some great places to enjoy being by it.

Orford-Castle photograph courtesy of Mark Seton

The Blyth Running between Southwold and Walberswick the Blyth runs inland to Blythburgh and beyond. If you’re looking for high octane adventure power boating trips on the Coastal Voyager in Southwold are a must or, if something more sedate is your desire, the Blyth estuary is a bird watching hot spot and a great place to see avocet, black tailed godwit, bittern, marsh harrier, and woodlark.

Situated in the heart of Aldeburgh High Street, we are an independent family owned and run restaurant.

ALL OUR FOOD IS MADE ON SITE WITH NO ADDITIVES FISH DISHES A SPECIALITY

We are keen supporters of the local economy sourcing as many ingredients as we can from local suppliers including fish, meat, ducks, chicken, lamb and vegetables

We are open 7 days a week* for lunch and dinner 12 – 2pm for lunch and 6pm – till late for dinner. *16/07 – 03/09. Telephone for opening times outside these dates

171 High Street Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AN 01728 452011 www.regattaaldeburgh.com

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A great place for retail therapy

ALL ON ONE STREET Life’s too short to wear boring clothes!

A stylish collection of beautiful on-trend clothing whether you are looking for casual, classic, smart or evening wear from labels such as Garcia, Vero Moda, Saint Tropez and Tamaris.

Ninni Noo also has a wonderful selection of footwear to compliment your outfit and a stunning range of jewellery.

Shop owner Nicky Risby and her team are known for their expert knowledge and enthusiasm and customers are always greeted with a warm, friendly, relaxed atmosphere making Ninni Noo a place they return to again and again.

57 Thoroughfare Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AH 01394 388655 ninninooboutique@hotmail.co.uk

Chic and stylish fashion Laura Jane Boutique offers a superb collection of women’s clothing with a fabulous selection of knitwear and layered looks. Boutique owner Laura Milldown, with her experienced eye and the knowledge of her clientele selects the latest trends from labels such as Part Two, Soaked in Luxury, Peruzzi, Yaya and many more, creating a modern and casual style that the boutique has become well known for. Laura Jane also stocks a wonderful selection of accessories, offering a unique & enjoyable shopping experience with a personal touch.

89/91 Thoroughfare Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AW 01394 386686 www.laurajaneboutique.co.uk

See it, love it, want it.

Holly Blue has been a popular boutique in Woodbridge for the past 14 years. Sue Risby the owner knows her customer and provides lovely clothes for the casual lifestyle to dresses for that special occasion and all with quality and style in mind. Sue has a keen eye and introduces new labels alongside the popular brands to keep the customer excited and updated with new trends. Holly Blue also offers a range of stunning accessories to complete the look.

72 Thoroughfare Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AL 01394 382300 sue@hollyblueboutique.com

New and stylish collections Adams Apple is well known for the stylish collections it offers from popular brands; since taking over in 2014, Beverley Horne has introduced fresh labels to complement the classics and breathed new life into the shop. With collections from Yest, Bianca, Monari, Pomodoro, Intown, Lebek and many more, there is something for everyone. Come in to enjoy the friendly atmosphere and meet the expert knowledgeable team, who are always on hand to help you find exactly what you are looking for.

70 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AL 01394 384685

Find your perfect fit Sweet Dreams is an independent, specialist lingerie and swimwear shop established 19 years ago. Stocking collections from labels that are amongst the best in the world and famous for their exceptional fit, comfort and value for money including Marie Jo, Prima Donna, Fantasie, Freya, Panache, Charnos, Lepel, Seafolly, Maryan Mehlhorn and many more. The team at Sweet Dreams with their wealth of expert knowledge offers an unrivalled level of customer care with a fitting and measuring service and specialists in maternity and mastectomy fitting too.

45A Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AH 01394 380306 Open 9.30 – 5 Monday to Saturday

Essential Explores Summer

SNAPE MALTINGS The home to Aldeburgh Music and the venue for the Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival, the Snape Maltings complex is a mixture of retail, art galleries and places to eat and drink. It is also a great start point to walk to the beautiful village of Iken.

and drink to your hearts content. Divided into two main sections, and joined by the charming Church Street, there is Market Hill and The Thoroughfare. Market Hill offers a great choice in food and fashion and is the venue for occasional specialist markets so it is always worth a visit. The Thoroughfare again offers a varied choice with local independents sitting side by side with some national outlets. At the top of the Thoroughfare, behind Elmhurst Park, are a group of local independent businesses that have come together to promote their part of the town and make sure visitors know what a fabulous place it is to shop. Branding themselves as Parkside Shops the business owners have added beautiful hanging baskets to decorate their shopfronts and will be working together to encourage visitors to their street. On July 8 the Parkside Shops are hosting a celebratory launch event offering a range of discounts for shoppers on the day.

The Deben From its source west of Debenham (the home of the Deben) the River Deben flows through Woodbridge, turning into a tidal estuary before entering the North Sea at Felixstowe Ferry. Popular with sailors there are several yacht and dinghy clubs on the river with the opportunity to take river trips from the village of Waldringfield. Recommended places to visit are: WOODBRIDGE Woodbridge is a vibrant market town on the banks of the Deben. Walks from the quayside along the riverside paths are extremely popular as is a visit to the Tide Mill, one of Suffolk’s most iconic buildings and now one of only two tide mills in the country still producing stoneground flour. Away from the waterfront Woodbridge has a thriving independent retail sector and a host of excellent options to eat

Photograph courtesy of National Trust

NATIONAL TRUST SUTTON HOO Just three miles from Woodbridge positioned above the river Sutton Hoo is home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. An awe-inspiring Anglo-Saxon royal burial site you can discover the story of the Anglo-Saxons at the burial ground of kings.

Sutton Hoo is the site of the country’s most significant archaeological discovery. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo RAMSHOLT AND WALDRINGFIELD If eating and drinking while sitting by a river is your ideal way to relax then the River Deben offers two stunning choices. The Ramsholt Arms at Ramsholt is the only south facing pub on the river and enjoys spectacular sunsets. A perfect spot for memorable photographs. Across the river at Waldringfield is The Maybush Inn an extremely popular dining pub with spectacular views.

Waldringfield has a thriving sailing community so there is always something to see.

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

IPSWICH The county town of Suffolk, Ipswich sits at the head of the River Orwell. The river has recently breathed new life into the town with the development of the Ipswich Waterfront. Starting at Jerwood House, the home of DanceEast, the Waterfront stretches for 1km and includes a great selection of bars, cafes and restaurants. A great place to sit and watch the world go by. If some retail therapy appeals just a short walk from the Waterfront is an area known as ‘The Saints’. Made up of St Peter’s Street and St Nicholas Street it is a main thoroughfare from Ipswich town centre to the waterfront and is the home to an eclectic mixture of interesting independent shops and places to eat and drink.

The Orwell The Orwell Bridge is an image that looms large in many people’s perception of our county. When it opened in 1982 it was the world’s longest pre-stressed concrete span in use and today remains vital to our county’s infrastructure. Beneath this colossus flows the River Orwell from Ipswich to its mouth between Felixstowe and Harwich. A source of inspiration for many the writer Eric Blair chose the pen name under which he would later become famous, ‘George Orwell’, because of his love for the river and Arthur Ransome, of Swallows and Amazons fame, featured Pin Mill on the rivers south bank in two children’s stories; ‘We didn’t mean to go to Sea’ and ‘Secret Water’. Again the Orwell is popular with the sailing fraternity with marinas at Levington, Woolverstone and Ipswich. Recommended places to visit are:

Photograph courtesy of Anthony Cullen

PIN MILL As mentioned opposite Pin Mill was the inspiration for two Arthur Ransome books and one time base for his beloved yacht ‘Selina King’. Today it remains a pretty hamlet and the location for another of our county’s great riverside pubs; The Butt & Oyster. We don’t believe you can truly say you have sampled the best of Suffolk if you haven’t supped a pint of Adnams or a cool gin and tonic here.

For everything stylish and practical

A boutique day spa for all your summer prep beauty requirements Bathsheba, 24 Church Street, Woodbridge IP12 1DH 01394 388813 | info@bathshebaspa.co.uk www.bathshebaspa.co.uk

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7 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, IP12 1AA www.woodbridgekitchencompany.co.uk 01394 382091

Essential Explores Summer

The Stour Forming the county border between Suffolk and Essex the Stour (STOOR/STOWR – the pronunciation battle rages on) flows into the North Sea meeting the Orwell at Harwich on its southern banks and Shotley Gate opposite. The river’s source lies in Cambridgeshire and beyond Mistley and Manningtree the river runs through the Dedham Vale part of the Stour Valley designated an Area of Outstanding Beauty.

Recommended places to visit are: NATIONAL TRUST FLATFORD MILL Walking in John Constable’s footsteps you can see why he loved to paint the local scenery and feel as if you are actually wandering through one of his paintings. A trip to Flatford is an opportunity to visit the scenes that made Constable famous with exhibitions, tours, boat trips and a chance to row through this most recognisable of landscapes. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford THE PIER AT HARWICH A trip on the foot ferry from Felixstowe to The Pier at Harwich (strictly Essex but it’s so close we thought we’d adopt it) is a little adventure that makes a lunch or a dinner all the more memorable.

Harwich has a host of surprises for the uninitiated from beautiful sections of beach, the Electric Picture Palace and the Redoubt Fort so why not make a day of it. (see Harwich Ferry feature page 30) Photograph courtesy of National Trust

AL FRESC O DINING wITH STUART INNS

One of Suffolk’s finest places to dine and stay

An historic English inn for comfortable and refined boutique dining

Stylish country dining with great beers and wines

Seven 5 star rooms including a family suite

Michelin Guide listed restaurant and bar

Recently refurbished and expanded

Michelin Guide and 2 AA Rosette restaurant

Private dining room

Food served all day from 10am to 10pm

Duck Deli perfect for picnic essentials

Bottomless Brunch and Steak & Burger nights

Buttermilk waffles every morning

Hall Street, Long Melford Suffolk, CO10 9JQ 01787 464545 info@longmelfordswan.co.uk www.longmelfordswan.co.uk

5 Market Place, Hadleigh Suffolk, IP7 5DL 01473 822880 info@thehadleighram.co.uk www.thehadleighram.co.uk

97 High Street, Lavenham Suffolk, CO10 9PZ 01787 249553 info@lavenhamgreyhound.com www.lavenhamgreyhound.com

LOBSTER WEEKENDS Hadleigh Ram 4 to 6 August Long Melford Swan 11 to 13 August

www.stuartinns.co.uk EssentialSUFFOLK

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Essential Explores Summer

Essential Explores Inland The Essential Suffolk team tends to be drawn to the waterside during the summer however it would be remiss not to highlight some of our favoured ‘inland’ choices too.

The Wool Towns While Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds are recognised as part of the history that wool played in the commerce of our county, these days the term ‘Wool Towns’ generally focuses on destinations such as Lavenham, Long Melford, Sudbury, Hadleigh, Clare and Cavendish. Packed with history and an architecture built on the wealth that wool brought to the area in the middle ages, these towns and villages are a mecca for tourists and locals alike. With a fine selection of independent shops and great places to eat ‘The Wool Towns tour’ is often cited in our ‘My Suffolk’ interview as one of the top outings our interviewees would share with a visitor to our county.

working order which gives you a very rare chance to see one in this condition. A brief detour from the road at the is point will take you to Framlingham and Framlingham Castle which has recently been brought to national and international fame through Ed Sheeran’s ‘Castle on the Hill’ hit. Rather fortuitously, it now seems, the Castle has recently undergone a £1.2million major upgrade to improve its visitor experience and public exhibitions so it is well positioned to capitalise on the surge in interest. Back on the A1120 it is not surprising that a number of good pubs have established themselves to look after locals and passing trade. The Queen at Dennington, The White Horse at Badingham and just a few hundred yards off the main route the highly recommended White Horse Inn at Sibton are all worth a visit. Finally just before its end is the village of Yoxford and the Yoxford Antiques Centre. An eclectic collection of antiques and curios from many different dealers, it is a place in which you can easily while away hours and come away with an unexpected slice of Suffolk.

Bury St Edmunds Visit Bury St Edmunds describes the town as “a unique and dazzling historic gem. An important market town with a richly fascinating heritage, the striking combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and glorious Cathedral and Abbey gardens provide a distinctive visual charm.” It is a thriving shopping destination, with a theatre, concert venue and also boasts plenty of quality choices for food and drink.

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The A1120 – ‘Tourist Route’ Our final inclusion is the A1120 which runs from near Stowmarket to the village of Yoxford. It is a 25 mile stretch of road that gives a varied and enjoyable slice of Suffolk. Having passed through Stowupland and Forward Green, the start point for two very enjoyable routes in our ‘Pub Walks with Darcy’ series (see our website for all walks), the road brings you to the Stonham Barns Leisure and Retail Village. A mixture of retail entertainment business including golf and the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary. A few miles further down the road you come to Saxtead Green and The Saxtead Green Post Mill; a traditional corn mill, whose whole body revolves on its base and is one of many built in Suffolk in the late 13th century. Although milling actually ceased in 1947, it is still in

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FIVE OF THE BEST SUMMER DAYS OUT FOOTGOLF at Stonham Barns FootGolf is the exciting new game that everyone can play!

It’s a great way to bring friends and families together to enjoy the distinction, elegance and precision of golf with the passion, energy and fun of football in a great fun way.

• It’s a game everyone can play, no experience required • For groups we organise the event for you including scoring, winners trophy, prizes and food if required • Good exercise in the fresh air • Great fun – good for team bonding in a relaxed environment • 18 holes – only takes around 90 mins to play

Book now and enjoy a unique and different event this year!

Stonham Barns Shopping & Leisure Complex, Pettaugh Road, IP14 6AT 01449 711545 sales@stonhambarnsgolf.co.uk www.stonhambarnsgolf.co.uk

EASTON FARM PARK Easton Farm Park is a family fun-filled jewel in the Suffolk countryside. There are lots of animals to meet and feed including cattle, horses and ponies, sheep, goats, rabbits, pigs, poultry and peacocks. A full programme of daily activities are included in your ticket including pony and train rides, hug a bunny and egg collecting.

There are indoor play barns, an outdoor adventure playground and giant bouncy pillow. The Barn Café offers hot and cold lunches, hot drinks and homemade cakes.

Easton Farm Park Easton, Woodbridge IP13 0EQ 01728 746475 www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

Welcome to YOXFORD ANTIQUES CENTRE With over 70 dealers under one roof, the Centre offers a huge range of antiques, collectables and vintage to browse and to buy. From books to grandfather clocks, jewellery to garden tools, there really is something here for everyone.

With ample free parking, gardens where you are welcome to stroll or relax and meet our resident alpacas, and the popular Flying Goose Café on site, this is so much more than just a shopping trip! We open six days a week (closed Tuesdays).

Yoxford Antiques Centre On the A1120 between Yoxford and Peasenhall (IP17 3JW) 01728 668844 www.yoxfordantiques.com

A little piece of paradise on the SUFFOLK HERITAGE COAST… Dingle Hill Tearooms is a family run business situated in the picturesque village of Dunwich. Dingle Hill values good quality, honest food sourced from local suppliers. All our scones, cakes, puddings & quiches are made on site by the very talented Amanda whilst our beautiful gardens are maintained by her husband, Nigel. We truly are a ‘family’ business and welcome everyone including dogs, children and well behaved parents!

Open 7 days a week, Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday & Sunday 9am – 5pm (serving breakfast 9am –11am)

Dingle Hill Tearooms Dunwich, Suffolk IP17 3DZ 01728 648872 info@dinglehilltearooms.co.uk www.dinglehilltearooms.co.uk Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

GOLFING FUN FOR ALL AGES...

JUST TURN UP, PAY AND PLAY! You are greeted by life sized dinosaurs, an erupting volcano and a giant dinosaur claw! The journey starts on a selfpropelled boat across the first of the water lagoons.

Visit the Congo Jungle plane crash & the cannibal cooking pot!

Pass through the abandoned temple and ride on a raft into the lost world!

Great for children’s parties and corporate events!

Ufford Park Hotel Yarmouth Road, Melton Woodbridge, IP12 1QW 01394 382836 golf@uffordpark.co.uk congorapids.co.uk

SUMMER DESTINATIONS On the next two pages you will find over 40 local independent retail and leisure businesses that can enhance your summer.

Be sure to give them a visit or a call.

Bathsheba

The Dolphin Inn

Holly Blue Boutique

Enjoy a range of treatments from beauty services, to full body massages in a professional yet relaxing environment, where you will leave feeling refreshed and revitalised!

24 Church Street Woodbridge IP12 1DH 01394 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk

Situated in the heart of the unique seaside village of Thorpeness is the Dolphin Inn, one of the most popular and well known destinations with its relaxed, friendly service and delicious seasonal food, award winning real ales and fine wine list.

Peace Place, Thorpeness IP16 4NA 01728 454994 info@thorpenessdolphin.com www.thorpenessdolphin.com

See it, love it, want it. This popular boutique in the heart of Woodbridge will have you spoilt for choice with lovely collections different from the high street and at realistic prices.

72 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AL 01394 382300

Adams Apple A stylish boutique of quality casual, smart and special occasion clothing available at affordable prices, with hats, bags and jewellery to complement any outfit.

70 Thoroughfare,Woodbridge IP12 1AL 01394 384685

Best of Suffolk Suffolk’s award winning holiday cottage agency, specialising in stylish holiday cottages in Suffolk with over 300 carefully selected holiday properties across the county.

Lime Tree Farm, Badingham IP13 8LU www.bestofsuffolk.co.uk 01728 638962

Aldeburgh Market The Aldeburgh Market – sells fresh fish, fruit and vegetables, bread and deli products. The in-house Market Cafe uses all of these to prepare modern, exciting food. Open Daily 8.30am – 5pm 170 – 172 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5BU 01728 452520 www.thealdeburghmarket.co.uk @AldeburghMarket

Brudenell The 4 star Brudenell is a privately owned hotel, restaurant and bar situated in a wonderful seafront setting with panoramic sea views, just a step away from Aldeburgh’s shingle beach.

The Parade, Aldeburgh IP15 5BU 01728 452071 www.brudenellhotel.co.uk

Aldeburgh Café Owner and chef Melanie Davenport has transformed the Café with a bright, colourful décor, original artworks and outdoor seating with views across the estuary for a child and dog friendly café experience. Mel’s home cooked seasonal menu, featuring artisan Suffolk produce, includes daily luncheon specials, cakes, savouries and the famous Aldeburgh Café breakfast. Now licensed for wines and beers. Open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea 7 days a week Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road Aldeburgh IP15 5JD Find us at facebook/aldeburghcafe 01728 454891

The Angel Hotel A contemporary boutique hotel set in the heart of historic Bury St Edmunds. Our award-winning selection of food and drink, includes a chic and elegant AA Rosette Eaterie serving superb modern British cuisine.

3 Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1LT 01284 714000 www.theangel.co.uk

The Butt & Oyster The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known public houses in Suffolk renowned for its good beer, good food and great views, situated in the hamlet of Pin Mill on the River Orwell.

Pin Mill, Ipswich IP9 1JW 01473 780764 www.debeninns.co.uk/buttandoyster

A friendly, independent department store specialising in high quality, beautiful home furnishings and offering fantastic customer service.

40-42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge IP12 1LA 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk

A unique mix of interactive farm fun within a set of listed historic buildings and countryside. Easton Farm Park is the ideal place for family visits, birthday parties, school trips and farm holidays.

Easton, Woodbridge IP13 0EQ 01728 746475 www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

EXOTIC GARDEN COMPANY & PLANET POT

Exotic Garden Company & Planet Pot Visit the Exotic Garden Company a nursery with a difference where personal service is paramount. Full range of unusual shrubs, perennials, bedding and of course tree ferns, bouganvilleas & hardy bananas.

Planet Pot are importers selling directly to the public. We have the largest selection of garden pots in Suffolk starting at just £1. Also stocking chimneas, firebowls and associated garden ornaments.

Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road Aldeburgh IP15 5JD 01728 454456

Spectacular fun for all ages. Modelled on Florida style adventure golf courses, experience the jungle as well as the Lost World where you are greeted by life sized dinosaurs and an erupting volcano.

Ufford Park Hotel,Yarmouth Road Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1QW 01394 382386 www.congorapids.co.uk

Hot Tub Village Jacuzzi award winning hot tub centre based in the heart of Suffolk. Showroom is open all year round, 7 days a week.

Stonham Barns Shopping & Leisure Complex, Pettaugh Road Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT 01449 710167 www.hottubvillage.co.uk

Laura Jane Boutique Chic and stylish clothes, shoes and accessories at affordable prices.

Stocking labels such as YaYa, Peruzzi, Part Two, Lauren Vidal, Soaked in Luxury and many more.

89 – 91 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AW 01394 386686 www.laurajaneboutique.co.uk

Lavenham Greyhound Stylish country dining with great beers and wines. Recently refurbished and expanded. Food served all day from 10am to 10pm 97 High Street, Lavenham CO10 9PZ 01787 249553 www.lavenhamgreyhound.com

Fleur Contemporary ladieswear selling collections from Sandwich, Jackpot, Part Two, Seasalt & more.

166 High Street, Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ 01728 454822 www.fleuraldeburgh.co.uk

Congo Rapids & Lost World Adventure Golf

The Lighthouse Restaurant Open every day, lunchtime and evening.

Pop in and enjoy fabulous local seasonal produce cooked by Guy Welsh and served by Sam and the team.

77 High Street, Aldeburgh IP15 5AU 01728 453377 info@lighthouserestaurant.co.uk www.lighthouserestaurant.co.uk

Hadleigh Ram An historic English inn for comfortable and refined boutique dining. Michelin Guide listed restaurant and bar.

5 Market Place, Hadleigh IP7 5DL 01473 822880 www.thehadleighram.co.uk

Hall Farm Pet Supplies

Long Melford Swan One of Suffolk’s finest places to dine and stay, Michelin Guide and 2 AA Rosette restaurant.

Hall Street, Long Melford CO10 9JQ 01787 464545 www.longmelfordswan.co.uk

Hall Farm Pet Supplies Dingle Hill Tearooms

Barretts of Woodbridge

Easton Farm Park

HOT TUB VILLAGE

Situated in the historical village of Dunwich, Dingle Hill Tearooms really is a little piece of paradise on the Suffolk Coast. Fresh, fabulous food served daily.

Delicious homemade scones, cakes, puddings and lunches served 7 days a week, 10am – 5pm in our beautiful gardens and Tearooms. Serving breakfast Saturdays & Sundays, 9am – 11am Dunwich, Suffolk IP17 3DZ 01728 648872 info@dinglehilltearooms.co.uk www.info@dinglehilltearooms.co.uk

Covering a large range of pet foods, wild bird feed and feeders, large selection of dog food including full range of Salters.

Comprehensive selection of pet care products plus our ‘Doggy Treat Store’ with pick’n’mix selection. We also deliver local seasonal logs and sell great value railway sleepers. Also see our farm machinery website www.hallfarmmachinery.com Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road Aldeburgh IP15 5JD 01728 453666 (Pet Store) 07872 916363 (Log sales only. October – April)

The Maybush Inn The Maybush Inn is perched on the banks of the River Deben in Waldringfield, near Woodbridge. The busy riverside pub and restaurant affords panoramic views across the river and beyond.

Cliff Rd, Waldringfield Woodbridge IP12 4QL 01473 736215 www.debeninns.co.uk/maybush

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THE BEST SELECTION OF STYLISH HOLIDAY COTTAGES ON THE SUFFOLK COAST AND BEYOND Contact us now to book your perfect Suffolk coastal break!

01728 553112

bestofsuffolk.co.uk

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163 – 165 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AN 01728 454566 www.aldeburghmunchies.co.uk @AldeMunchies @

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The Westleton Crown is a friendly hotel, 0 0 pub & restaurant on the Suffolk Heritage coast near Southwold. Dog friendly and with family rooms our locally sourced, delicious main menu offers a wide selection.

The Street, Westleton Nr Southwold IP17 3AD 01728 648777 www.westletoncrown.co.uk

Sea Spice boutique

Ninni Noo A stylish collection of beautiful clothing at affordable prices. “Life’s too short to wear boring clothes.”

57 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AH 01394 388655

A vibrant restaurant combining coastal Suffolk produce with exotic Indian cooking and local craft beer at the White Lion Aldeburgh.

Market Cross Place Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ 01728 451800 www.seaspice.co.uk

The Ship at Dunwich O&C Butcher Menswear, ladieswear and footwear from Olsen, Oui, NYDJ, Barbour, Gant, Timberland, Sebago and more.

129 – 131 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AS 01728 452229 www.ocbutcher.co.uk

Once a haunt of smugglers, The Ship at Dunwich isn’t just a great place to eat, drink, relax and get away from it all – we like to think it’s also part of a great story. Visit us you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.

St James Street, Dunwich IP17 3DT 01728 648219 www.shipatdunwich.co.uk info@shipatdunwich.co.uk

Ufford Park Hotel, Golf and Spa

The White Lion

Situated in 120 acres of Suffolk’s beautiful countryside and located just off the A12, Ufford Park Woodbridge offers a fantastic choice of facilities for all to enjoy. An ideal place for a short break with 87 bedrooms, 18 hole golf course, health club and luxury spa resort.

Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1QW 0844 847 9467 (local rate) www.uffordpark.co.uk

A relaxed hotel, bar and brassiere situated on the beachfront in Aldeburgh. We are passionate about creating imaginative menus using the abundance of fresh, local seasonal produce. Now including Sea Spice offering authentic Indian food on the Suffolk coast.

Market Cross Place Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ 01728 452720 www.whitelion.co.uk

Vintage Angels Vintage Angels Beautiful vintage clothes for men and women. From Victorian, Edwardian, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s. Also designer brands and specialists in vintage fur coats. We can also sell designer and unwanted quality clothes for you. Open: Wed – Sun 10 – 5 Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5JD 07879 630461 www.vintageangelsclothing.co.uk

Woodbridge Kitchen Company A gem of a store that is a wonderful Aladdin’s cave of kitchen gadgets, utensils, pots and pans, stocking everything and more for the discerning cook or the busy person looking after a home.

7 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge IP12 1AA 01394 382091 www.woodbridgekitchencompany.co.uk

The Ramsholt Arms The Ramsholt Arms is a popular riverside pub and dining room, situated on the banks of the river Deben. Being the only south facing pub on the river, the Ramsholt Arms enjoys beautiful sunsets and is popular in the summer with holidaymakers, families and sailors who make the most of the sun soaked terrace.

Ramsholt Arms, Dock Road Ramsholt IP12 3AB 01394 411209 www.theramsholtarms.com

Southwold Pier Visit the world famous Southwold Pier – shopping, eating and attractions to keep you entertained for days.

North Parade, Southwold IP18 6BN 01502 722105 www.southwoldpier.co.uk

Stonham Barns Golf The Regatta Serving Aldeburgh for 20 years we are specialists in seafood and local fish. Our main menu is varied and changes regularly and in addition we offer daily specials on the black boards. Follow us on Facebook for offers and events. www.facebook.com/RegattaRestaurant 171 High Street, Aldeburgh IP15 5AN 01728 452011 www.regattaaldeburgh.com

Stonham Barns Golf is open to the public every day and welcomes all ages so get active and have some fun at our golfing facility.

Stonham Barns Shopping & Leisure Complex, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT 01449 711545 www.stonhambarnsgolf.co.uk

The Wentworth

Yoxford Antiques Centre & Gardens

Aldeburgh’s only truly independent hotel, owned by the same family since 1920.

A blend of the traditional and modern, with spacious lounges, a 2 rosette restaurant and beautiful garden areas.

All a stone’s throw from the beach.

The Wentworth is dog friendly.

Wentworth Road, Aldeburgh IP15 5BD 01728 452312 www.wentworth-aldeburgh.com

Yoxford Antiques Centre welcomes customers old and new to what we – and many others – consider to be the best antiques centre in Suffolk! Set in several acres of natural gardens, this is an increasingly popular venue for a great day out in the Suffolk countryside.

Askers Hill,Yoxford IP17 3JW 01728 668844 www.yoxfordantiques.com

Exotic Garden Company Visit a nursery with a difference where personal service is paramount. We have a full range of unusual shrubs, perenials, bedding and of course tree ferns, palms, bouganvilleas and hardy bananas.

Suffolk Secrets Salter & King Salter & King has developed an excellent reputation across the Suffolk area, based on our commitment to great meat with provenance, excellent service and traditional values. We also we also stock our own pies, traditional breed ham, home cured salt beef and wonderful potted beef.

107 – 109 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AR 01728 452758 www.salterandking.co.uk

With over 350 cottages in Suffolk, we’re sure to be able to offer you a holiday that’s just right for you. Each of our lovely Suffolk cottages has been inspected by VisitEngland – the country’s official tourism board.

01502 722717 holidays@suffolk-secrets.co.uk www.suffolk-secrets.co.uk

Follow us on twitter @Exoticgardenco

01728 454456

Open Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm Sun 10am – 4pm

Hall Farm, Samundham Road, Aldeburgh – Sat Nav IP15 5JD

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

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with Darcy

This month Darcy has a summer day out by the seaside with a walk from The Wentworth Hotel in Aldeburgh

www.christchurchvets.co.uk

A trip to Aldeburgh – with of course fish and chips – is high on many peoples ‘summer fun’ to do list however having a dog in tow possibly doesn’t make this the easiest outing.

As lovely as Aldeburgh is, the May through September dog ban on the main town stretch of the beach, means that as a destination it may not be the first thought for dog lovers. But this new walk, starting and ending at The Wentworth Hotel, puts the town firmly back on the map.

The walk itself at just 2.5 miles can easily be completed in an hour but should you wish to linger on the beach – the walk takes you outside the dog ban zone – or make a visit to the impressive Scallop sculpture the choice is yours and the walk time can easily be extended. Having left the beach section the walk crosses the RSPB North Warren Nature Reserve, definitely a place to take your time, with beautiful views across the marshes back to Aldeburgh. Near the end of the route the walk follows a footpath through the immaculate Church Farm Holiday Park so please keep your dogs on a lead at this point.

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Although this feature is called ‘Pub Walks with Darcy’ our underlying aim is to offer our readers venues where dogs are welcome and The Wentworth certainly is. The hotel’s owner, Michael Pritt, enthusiastically welcomes our four legged friends with only the formal dining room off limits. If you haven’t visited The Wentworth it really is worthwhile. It is a warren of great places to sit and relax whatever the time of year and the front terraces, over-looking the beach, must be one of the best places to enjoy fish and chips – and avoid the queues!

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Church Farm Holiday Park

The Scallop

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ALDEBURGH

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The Wentworth Hotel

The Hotel for all seasons The Wentworth Hotel is Aldeburgh’s only truly independent hotel. Open to residents and non-residents alike you and your dog can be assured of a warm welcome and traditional values.

THE WALK Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles Time: Approx. 45 minutes – 1 hour Terrain: Good paths and optional shingle beach walking Stops: The Wentworth Hotel Ordinance Survey Map: 212 Start Point OS reference: 466 571 As always please keep your dog under close control and follow any advisory signs. For a printable version of this and more than 60 previous walks go to: www.essentialsuffolk.com/dog-walks where you will also find more pictures of each walk route.

1. With your back to The Wentworth cross the road on to the path opposite.Turn left and walk towards Thorpeness. After a short while you will come to some bollards in the path and a beach shelter on your right. This marks the start of where dogs are allowed on the beach. Continue on the path for approx. 10 –15 minutes (depending on your pace) until you come to a wooden post on your left. As you look left you will see a Footpath (FP) sign on your left across the road.The FP sign is just before a derelict single story building.

2. Cross the road and follow the FP sign taking the path across the marshes. Shortly after the path turns to the right and then back to the left you will reach a ‘junction’ with a sign that reads ‘This is a Permissive Footpath’.

3. At the junction turn left and follow the path until you reach some houses.

4. At the houses follow the path left and follow the yellow FP sign through the fence into the Church Farm Holiday Park. Please observe that there is a sign here that reads ‘Please keep your dog on a lead at all times’. Follow the road through the centre of the holiday park and exit either through the main gate or the staggered gap in the fence beyond the gate if the main gate is closed.

5. Cross over the road and turn left.

6. At the T junction you will see a sign for ‘Thorpeness’ and ‘Town Centre’. Cross over the road on to the path and turn right towards the town centre returning to The Wentworth which will be on your right.

Dogs are welcome throughout the hotel with only the restaurant out of bounds so whether you fancy morning coffee, afternoon tea, lunch or dinner we are here for you.

Enjoy our light lunch bar menu, including our famous fish and chips, in our two attractive sea view terrace gardens, lunch in our conservatory with our two course menu from just £16 and three course from £21 or, if you are visiting without your dog, evening dinner in our elegant restaurant with our two course menu from just £21.50 and three courses from £27.25 The restaurant is now open from 6.30pm for reservations please call 01728 452312

Wentworth Rd, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BD stay@wentworth-aldeburgh.co.uk

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HEAD HELD HIGH Recently named ‘Best Pub in Suffolk’ by Pub and Bar magazine, Lesley Rawlinson visits The Turks Head Hasketon to sample its internationally inspired menu

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n recent years Suffolk has been bucking a national trend. No, it’s nothing to do with rejecting low slung hipster trousers – this is a business trend that has made a real difference; breathing life back into our village communities. Because while all over the UK pubs have been closing, we’ve seen quite the opposite. I can bring plenty of excellent examples of rejuvenations and re-openings to mind and my list would certainly include our destination for this month’s Dining Review – The Turks Head at Hasketon.

It’s a stone’s throw from both the B1079 and the A12 at Woodbridge however, as it’s just far enough from the beaten track to retain its tranquillity, Hasketon may not have made it on to your radar before. It’s a great place for walking and as the pub actively welcomes both muddy children and muddy dogs it really isn’t surprising that, since reopening just 18 month ago, The Turks Head has become a firm favourite with families in particular.

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Inside there are three quite distinct zones with the cosy bar and snug both dog friendly. The restaurant has a more formal feel, a special space to relax surrounded by some stunning artworks and also enjoy views of the terrace and garden beyond. The outside space is also adorned with some impressive sculptures by the incredibly talented Paul Richardson and as we settled at a table by a window his beautiful leaf globe was perfectly illuminated in our view.

With drinks ordered from the bar it was time to take a good first look at the menu. Do you remember back to when pub food was all about scampi, chicken in a basket and – if you were lucky – a highly exotic lasagne? How far we’ve come as a food loving nation when the village pub offers the kind of seductive list presented to us here. There are clear influences throughout from Head Chef Chandramauli (Mauli) Dwivedi’s native India. He trained there in classic French cooking and started his career under the guidance of Antonio Carluccio,

becoming part of a team gaining accolades as one of the Top Ten Italian restaurants in India. It’s this truly international twist on local produce that is the hallmark of Mauli’s cuisine.

Starters included warm crispy beef fillet, paneer stuffed pakora and even Suffolk lamb sweetbreads however my eye was caught by a very summery sounding plate of chargrilled mackerel escabeche with grilled chorizo and saffron aioli.

I could happily eat mackerel every day; smoked, grilled, as pate… but that means my expectations are high too and I wasn’t disappointed. The fish was packed with flavour and the bed of crisp salad with pickled radish provided perfect balance. My husband took an unusual choice for him of homemade linguine with Cromer crab carbonara style sauce with chilli oil. While his personal taste could have taken a more firey chilli hit the more subtle approach suited the delicate crab flavour and the generous bowlful would have made a satisfying lunch.

Dining Review | Turks Head

On to the main course and here the selection process was far more tricky.

When meat and fish lovers like us are sorely tempted by the vegan option – chargrilled butternut squash paella – the chef is clearly treating every diner’s preferences with equal respect and creative enthusiasm. I’d had it on very good authority from a trusted friend that the Bengali monkfish curry with coconut rice was an absolute treat but I was more tempted by the 21st century successor to the aforementioned humble standard bearer in the shape of an open lasagne of Sutton Hoo chicken with Baron Bigod cheese, pancetta, sage cream sauce and charred baby gem lettuce. When the dish arrived I thought I’d been far too ambitious as the generous mountain of layered chicken, cheese and delicate pasta sheets filled the bowl before me. But to my surprise the strong rich cheese, tender chicken, pasta and lettuce were another awesome combination and bowl scraping could well have ensued in less polite company!

I may have missed my chance this

season to return in time for a helping of the local asparagus, heritage tomato and ricotta tart (my second choice) but I can only imagine similarly divine execution.

Mr R was in meaty mode and, though he considered Suffolk ribeye and he fought his penchant for slow cooked Blythburgh pork, roast Gressingham duck breast came out top. I think it was the potato baklava that was of particular interest and scored another win for Mauli’s adaptation of a Turkish favourite. Soft potato, crisp filo and layered with seasonal herbs it’s an ideal summer accompaniment that could happily sit alongside barbecue meats or fish. On this occasion it partnered subtly pink duck breast cooked flawlessly.

We were going to pass on puds – but when our friendly waiter suggested that the Eton mess was something really rather special it would have seemed rude to say no! I’m so glad I indulged – a new standard to set my dessert ratings by.

Strawberries can easily disappoint but

English strawberries in early summer are unbeatable. Not to be left with dessert envy, and feeling sticky toffee pudding or chocolate fondant might defeat him, my husband ordered what he considered to be the ‘sensible’ option, selecting his favourite flavours of ice creams and sorbets.

My conclusion – The Turks Head is the very best of both worlds. A comfortable, welcoming family friendly pub with restaurant quality food and impeccable service so don’t be surprised if you need to book, especially at weekends and during the holiday season because once tried their customers will be returning again and again.

INFORMATION The Turks Head Low Road, Hasketon Woodbridge IP13 6JG 01394 610343 info@theturksheadhasketon.co.uk www.theturksheadhasketon.co.uk

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SUMMER ON A PLATE Tom Plant, Head Chef at Woodhall Manor shares this delightful summer dessert which is simple to make and totally delicious

Photograph by Adrian Rawlinson

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Chef’s Recipe | Woodhall Manor

Tom Plant has more than 16 years commercial and event experience.

In his first position as a kitchen assistant, he progressed quickly through the ranks to become head chef of that kitchen. While studying for his all important qualifications, Tom went on to experience working in the high pressure environment of a 1 Rosette hotel in all specialisations of the kitchen; but his main passion has always been as a pâtissier, skilled in the making of pastries, desserts, breads and other baked goods. Tom quickly became in demand with the company’s two sister hotels, each featuring a 2 Rosette Restaurant. He progressed to the role of Senior Sous Chef at another restaurant in Colchester and ultimately achieved the position of Senior Pastry Chef there. In 2012 he was approached to join Woodhall Manor as their dedicated Sous Chef, and just 12 months later was promoted to Head Chef of their busy kitchen which caters regularly for wedding parties of up to 130 guests.

Vanilla & Honey Panna Cotta Preparation time 30 minutes. Cooking time 10 minutes plus chilling (4 hours). You will need 4 Dariole moulds.

INGREDIENTS Serves 4 For the Panna Cotta 240ml double cream 60ml milk 30g honey 1 ⁄4 vanilla pod 1.5 leaves of gelatine For the Mixed Berries Compote 100g mixed berries 50g caster sugar 100ml water For the Honeycomb 1 tbsp vegetable oil 80g butter 160g caster sugar 80g golden syrup 2tsp bicarbonate of soda

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Soak the gelatine in cold water until soft (approx. 5 – 10 minutes) Bring the cream and milk to the boil. Add the honey and vanilla pod to infuse.

Squeeze out excess water from the gelatine and stir into the cream mixture.

Pass the mixture through a sieve and then 3⁄4 fill four dariole moulds.

Leave in the fridge until set.

To make the compote, place the water and sugar in a pan and boil until syrupy.

Add the berries, gently stir and then remove from the heat.

To make the honeycomb, grease a 20cm (8 inch) square baking tin with vegetable oil.

Gently heat the butter, sugar and golden syrup in a large heavy-based pan until the sugar has dissolved. Turn up the heat and boil rapidly, without stirring. Keep boiling until the mixture goes a golden-brown colour – this will take about five minutes.

Add the bicarbonate of soda and stir it for a few seconds, which will make the mixture expand and fizz (take care – the mixture will expand a lot). Tip the honeycomb into the oiled baking tin and leave until cold and set. Break into pieces to decorate or blitz in a food processor for a fine dust.

To remove the panna cotta from the mould, place the mould in hot water for a second then upturn on to the plate.

To serve place the panna cotta on the plate, add the compote and crushed honeycomb and garnish with mint.

Mint sprig to garnish (optional)

Woodhall Manor - Suffolk’s Hidden Gem! Dating back to 1566 and set in 9 acres of beautiful gardens, Woodhall Manor is a splendid example of a luxurious Elizabethan country house. Located in the idyllic countryside the Manor is one of Suffolk’s most exclusive hidden gems.

Catering for weddings, corporate events, celebrations and Christmas parties the venue’s food is second to none and with 14 luxurious en-suite bedrooms and suites your event can roll through into the early hours followed by a fabulous full English breakfast in the morning.

Woodhall Drive Sutton Woodbridge Suffolk IP1 3EG Tel: 01394 411 288 www.woodhallmanor.com info@woodhallmanor.com

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A SUMMER CERTAINTY

A long standing favourite for the Essential Suffolk team, summer wouldn’t be summer without a trip to The Ship at Dunwich.

Adrian Rawlinson visits

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he Ship at Dunwich was one of the first pubs I discovered in Suffolk when I moved to the county just over 21 years ago. Having moved from landlocked Nottinghamshire to the village of Westleton being so close to the coast, and discovering such a great little pub just yards from the beach, seemed like heaven.

Nestled between Southwold and Aldeburgh on the Heritage Coast The Ship was reputedly once the haunt of smugglers and despite sympathetic modernisation over the years still retains a relaxed ‘olde’ world feel. We have discovered over many visits though that behind this casual rustic exterior The Ship is a business with quality at its heart. The quality of the food – the reason for our visit on this occasion – has rarely failed to thrill and the quality of its accommodation – again something we have experienced a number of times over the years – is excellent. With the wind in the right direction the sound of breaking waves is truly soporific and combined with crisp Egyptian cotton induces the deepest, most relaxing of night’s sleep. Add to these merits the fact that the pub is extremely dog friendly – it is the start point for four of our ‘Pub walks with Darcy’ series – and you can see why it is a favoured and well frequented destination.

Another reason we like The Ship is they recognise the need to develop and keep their offering fresh. While there will always be the classics, such as their renowned fish and chips, you need to offer diners reasons to come back again and again. This year they have appointed a new Head Chef, Liam Davison, to help them do that. Described as having “creative energy and passion” Liam initially joined as Sous Chef last summer and took up the lead in the kitchen at the end of February. Suffolk-born and raised he describes his cooking as a 60

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Dining Review | The Ship at Dunwich

Head Chef Liam Davison

modern take on traditional flavours where diners can enjoy a combination of classic and modern cookery skills with the freshest of local ingredients.

Our visit this time, on a sunny Friday evening, had my wife and I discussing whether it was warm enough to eat outside. Although we had booked a table the large garden and the sheltered courtyard at The Ship are beautiful places to eat and we were sorely tempted, however on this occasion we chose to stick with our original reservation.

The pub has four main areas to dine inside. The bar – an absolute favourite in winter with the roaring open fire – two dining rooms, one intimate and the other larger – ideal for bigger parties – and the conservatory; a light airy and relaxing room and where we had been allocated a table on this visit.

When doing a dining review my wife and I have certain guidelines. We always make sure we both choose different starters and different main courses and generally will go for a dish that wouldn’t be our usual dish if we are visiting a venue where we eat outside our business lives. This can lead to much pondering over what can be familiar options and so it was on this evening.

On a non-review visit a whitebait starter is generally a must, for some reason no one does this dish as consistently well as The Ship and our daughter still feels she has missed out if we report we have

enjoyed one without her. On this visit however we were drawn by quite a few options which reminded us we really must be more open to other choices in the future.

On the specials menu was house-cured Adnams gin salmon served with pickled cucumber, flatbreads and a tonic gel which caught my eye as did the homemade chicken, chorizo ad sunblushed tomato terrine and the Lowestoft smoked mackerel and horseradish pâté. However none of these made the final cut. Instead I was drawn by a section of the menu headlined ‘The Ship’s homemade Scotch eggs’.

There were three options; Blythburgh pork with black pudding with homemade piccalilli, hot smoked salmon and horseradish with homemade sweet pickled cucumber and a vegetarian spiced mixed bean with Suffolk tomato chutney. The waiter confirmed that each of these was served hot and I was sold, finally deciding on the salmon option.

Lesley went for a first for her choosing tempura battered soft shell crab served with homemade sweetcorn relish, bloody Mary mayo and dressed leaves. Both dishes were delicious. The yolk of my Scotch egg was perfectly cooked and I would happily return just to eat this again. It was certainly substantial enough to be a lunch in its own right.

The crab will also be re-visited as my wife declared it a hit.

For our mains the choices were again tough. Two special menu options really caught my eye. The first pan-roasted

Lowestoft cod with brown shrimp butter and the second roasted tomato, chilli and ginger linguine with tiger prawns and clams. I decided however, guided by an Easter visit with the family, to try The Ship’s local rump burger which was described by my daughter as the best she had eaten in a long while. “Tasty, moist, beautifully seasoned and very generous.” Putting aside her natural preference for The Ship’s famous fish and chips Lesley was very tempted by the fish pie and the homemade chicken and leek pie however she spotted an opportunity to go for the slow-braised Blythburgh pork belly served with creamed leeks, bubble and squeak and red wine gravy. I say opportunity as I am such a fan of Blythburgh pork, one of Suffolk’s truly great products, that it is my go to dish and therefore she normally misses out so on this occasion we were both happy diners.

Having both chosen what turned out to be substantial starters and mains our appetites were exhausted and although I really fancied sampling the lemon posset with local rhubarb compote and stem ginger mascarpone and Lesley the local cheeseboard with Norfolk Binham Blue, and Suffolk Shipcord and Brie we let it pass on this occasion as we know with certainty it will not be long before we make a return visit.

INFORMATION The Ship at Dunwich, IP17 3DT T: 01728 648219 www.shipatdunwich.co.uk

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The Fox

Sibton White Horse

The Fountain

Imagine a chocolate box style village pub, beaming with pinkness, beautiful tranquil gardens and flowers around the door.

Add a loyal and friendly clientele and great food and you’ll wish you had discovered us sooner. Fine locally sourced food is offered seven days a week, all day at weekends and this is complimented by an ever changing range of guest ales and wines. See our website for details of our menus.

Step through the door of this unassuming pub and prepare for a surprise. The heart of this thriving village local is 16th-century and steeped in history. Relax with a drink, enjoy lunch or dinner and you can expect easy relaxed service whilst absorbing the pubs immense character or spill out into the impressive courtyard and indulge in some of the finest alfresco. Awarded 2 AA Rosettes, the ever changing menu is thoughtfully created and built upon fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, with produce from the pub’s kitchen garden.

Located in the lovely old village of Tuddenham St Martin, three miles north of Ipswich, informal bistro style restaurant set in an oldie worldy 16th century country pub with great food, great service and great value. Full A La Carte menu plus set price menus; two courses £14.95, three courses £17.95. Current specials always included on the website. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 7pm. Covered heated patio and spacious beer garden.

Open: Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week.

The Street, Newbourne, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4NY

Open: 12pm to 2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 6.30pm to 11pm. Monday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm, 6.45pm to 10.30pm Sunday Halesworth Road, Sibton, Nr. Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 2JJ

01473 736307 fox@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01728 660337 info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk

01473 785377 fountainpub@btconnect.com www.tuddenhamfountain.co.uk

Butt & Oyster

Brasserie Bleue

The Coach & Horses

The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known public houses in Suffolk renowned for its good beer, good food and great views.

As you eat watch the changing tides on traditional timeless shores. Understand an artist’s inspiration with Thames barges, swans and the river, enjoying the finest Suffolk ales whilst being tempted by the wonderful aromas which welcome you. See our website for details of our menus.

The Brasserie Bleue at the White Lion Hotel in the heart of Aldeburgh, features handpicked local Suffolk produce, carefully put together with a French inspired twist. Get your fixe of the classics in our family friendly restaurant, open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pop in for coffee and a homemade cake; tuck into a hearty roast on Sundays; or indulge in our magnificent themed Afternoon Tea with a menu that changes monthly, available every day.

The Coach & Horses located just outside of Woodbridge, has extremely good access to the A12 with ample parking. Originally a staging inn or coach house, it’s historical role is equally well served today providing great family food. We offer a great combination of quality, value and atmosphere that the Deben Inns are renowned for. See our website for details of our menus.

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11pm.

Sunday, 12pm to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week.

Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 1JW 01473 780764 buttandoyster@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk 62

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Open: All day every day. Please check the website for food service times.

The White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ 01728 452720 whitelion.co.uk

Open: Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm. Saturday, 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9.30pm. Sunday, 12pm to 7pm The Street, Tuddenham St. Martin, IP6 9BT

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11pm Sunday, 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week.

Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PD 01394 384851 coachandhorses@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

Food Gallery

The Turks Head

Fynn Valley

At The Turk’s Head we serve local ales, fantastic wines & beautifully executed food using the abundance of local produce Suffolk has to offer. We have launched a set lunch menu from Monday to Friday, £15 for two courses, £18 for three. On 13th July we will be hosting a ‘Guided Gin Pairing Supper’, a fantastic set menu with a special gin to accompany each course. Our next ‘Supper and Quiz Night’ is on 26th July. Our ‘Bank Holiday Gin Festival Garden Party’ is on Sunday 27th August. Dogs, muddy boots and muddy children welcome.

Winner of the ‘Most Welcoming Golf Club’ in England award this is the place to bring your family and friends for a wide range of tempting meals prepared by our talented chefs. Enjoy a home made bar meal or daily special in the cosy Courtyard Bar, utilising great local produce. Al fresco dining in the sheltered Courtyard is a popular option.

Sunday Lunches are served in The Terrace overlooking the golf course, all freshly roasted on the day and children eat free!

The spacious Valley Room is perfect for large family celebrations. Full details of our menus and offers can be found on our website.

Seckford Hall 1530 Restaurant Perfect for business or pleasure, the talented team of chefs at Seckford Hall turn local produce into mouth-watering dishes, with seasonally changing menus. The philosophy of 1530 is to offer the freshest food, cooked simply and beautifully presented, in a classic style at reasonable prices. Visit this summer to enjoy a memorable meal and experience the tradition, history and good taste at 1530.

Open: Open every lunchtime and Tuesday – Saturday evenings.

Fynn Valley Golf Club, Witnesham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 9JA 01473 785202 restaurant@fynn-valley.co.uk www.fynn-valley.co.uk

Open: Lunch: A la carte 12pm – 2pm daily.

Afternoon Tea: served 3pm – 5pm daily.

Bar: Tudor Bar menu served 12pm – 6pm daily. Dinner: A la carte Sun to Thurs 6.30pm – 9.30pm, Fri and Sat 6.30pm –10pm Seckford Hall Hotel, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 6NU 01394 385678 reception@seckford.co.uk www.seckford.co.uk

Ufford Park

The Maybush

Set in the lovely village of Falkenham, near Felixstowe, with wonderful countryside views. Join us in our licensed café, where all the smoked foods are hand-made on site.

Enjoy breakfast, coffee & cake, and light meals including smoked meat and fish platters, cheese boards, sandwiches and salads.

While you’re here why not grab something to take home from our deli, which stocks a wide range of products, including our own award-winning smoked foods.

Open every day, The Park Restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, local produce and a seasonally-changing menu. You can enjoy Sunday Lunch in both the restaurant and bar and this is priced accordingly. Join us on Sunday 9th or 23rd July and sit back and relax with local saxophonist playing between 12 noon and 2pm. Afternoon Tea is served throughout the year and this is priced at just £16.95 per person.

All party sizes can be accommodated.

Open to all; non-members welcome.

The Maybush Inn sits on the banks of the Deben in Waldringfield. The busy riverside pub and restaurant affords panoramic views across the river and beyond. The Maybush has become famous for its excellent food offering with a wide range and varied menu including local game, meats and fresh seafood.

Vegetarian options and children’s menu available. Food offers are available throughout the week. See our website for details.

Open: Thursday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm.

Please see website for variations in opening.

Food served all day – breakfast until 11.30am

Open: Monday to Sunday 6.30pm to 9.30pm Sunday Lunch in The Park Restaurant served 12 noon – 2pm

Open: Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week.

Goose Barn, Back Road, Falkenham, IP10 0QR

Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

Cliff Road, Waldringfield, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4QL

01394 448414 info@artisansmokehouse.co.uk www.artisansmokehouse.co.uk

0844 847 9467 reception@uffordpark.co.uk www.uffordpark.co.uk

01473 736215 maybush@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

Open: Monday to Thursday 11am to 11pm, Friday to Saturday 11am to 12am, Sunday 11am to 8pm Low Road, Hasketon, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 6JG 01394 610343 info@theturksheadhasketon.co.uk www.theturksheadhasketon.co.uk

The Artisan Smokehouse Café & Deli

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In a prime position on the seafront in Southwold, a soulless, neglected period property was waiting to be revived. Bespoke interior design and soft furnishing specialists Rendall & Wright have given Chelsea Villa new life

SEASCAPE INSPIRATION

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ontacted by existing clients whose property, near Sudbury in Suffolk, they had previously designed in 2015, Lindsey Rendall joined her clients to view the proposed Southwold project. The high ceilings, wonderful sense of light and all important sea view made the property highly desirable, as did the location of the handsome fronted Victorian Villa.

They were all in agreement; the location and the bones of the property were good, even though the layout didn’t lend itself to a modern lifestyle or provide the living spaces required. Unanimously potential was seen in the building and its charm won the group over.

The property was to be renovated to provide a family holiday home, which could be rented out when not used by clients themselves. Prepared to take on the sizeable challenge – to create an open kitchen/dining space to seat 14, a formal sitting room, a family games/TV room, four bathrooms and to sleep 14 people in proper beds – Lindsey set to work.

The building hadn’t been touched for many years. The windows were rotten, the walls were damp, wiring and heating needed replacing and to achieve the living spaces needed some structural work and a side extension was required.

With busy jobs, the owners asked Lindsey to realise their vision, giving her a tight schedule to complete the refurbishment in the hope to use the property for the summer season.

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Business Profile | Rendall & Wright

To provide the living space and number of bathrooms required some remodelling was required. On the third floor a bedroom and bathroom were reconfigured to create a bunk bed cabin room with an en-suite bathroom an additional shower room for the further two bedrooms on this floor. The second floor had a small bathroom and separate WC, these were knocked together to reshape the landing space, provide a large family bathroom and provide a service cavity to run pipework and new electrics through the property. The rear bedroom, which had been a wood lined sauna, had all traces of its former life removed and was reinstated as a guest bedroom and space for an en-suite shower room was created. On the ground floor the rear of the property was modified to provide a large storage/boot room, utility and WC. A side extension with roof lantern created a large kitchen/dining room with garden access for the all important indoor/outdoor living.

Lindsey wanted to create an interior scheme which would make you feel like you were by the coast; create a holiday feeling but retain the Victorian elegance expected within such a stylish property. Avoiding predictable deckchair stripes, bunting and beach huts, Lindsey chose to use quirky

wallpapers to enhance the seaside feeling for holiday rental customers.

Inspiration for the interior was drawn from the colours found in the seascape visible from the house. The idea was to create a warm, neutral canvas, reflecting the ever changing palette of the sky and sea; from pale shades and muted tones to deep greys and greens. Painting the walls soft putty colours and using simple natural fabrics such as linens and wools helped to create a relaxed country vibe.

Driftwood style finishes on furniture, snuggly blankets on the beds and accessories such as rope baskets provide textures that continue the beach theme.

Whilst creating a calm, relaxed environment was important there was equally a desire to provide a practical and durable finish, with a high-end look. Lindsey designed a sleek kitchen, a purpose designed storage room for outdoor equipment and beach paraphernalia, contemporary wet rooms, characterful bathrooms and a fun bunk bedroom to sleep four.

The sitting room features a traditional fireplace and restored pieces of period furniture alongside contemporary geometric fabrics, marble topped tables and velvets to add texture. Artwork on the wall includes original Vanity Fair

Chelsea Villa is available to book as a holiday rental from So Southwold. www.sosouthwold.co.uk 01502 543133

prints of finely dressed Victorian City Gentlemen, a quirky nod to the property name ‘Chelsea Villa’.

To provide practical flooring for those come straight from the beach, Lindsey used a Jura Grey Limestone throughout the majority of the ground floor and creating a clear visual link to the landscaped walled garden. The outside space needed to be very low maintenance and good for entertaining so the garden layout was reimagined to provide a hidden courtyard area to house an outside shower (handy for washing the sand off beach toys and feet), the bins and hide the gate entrance. The grass and shrubs were removed and replaced with a simple paving and a planting scheme which is gentle however hardy enough to withstand the salty sea breeze.

Finally, restoration of the front of the property saw a new Suffolk white brick wall built, topped with reclaimed Victorian railings which were restored and fitted and a newly laid Victorian patterned tiled path leads to the front door.

INFORMATION 01787 375076 www.rendallandwright.com

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The sun is out, the open spaces of Suffolk are beckoning and all you want to do is jump in the car and enjoy a picnic but there are some dos and don’ts to having a successful outing. Here’s our Essential Guide to the perfect picnic

PACK UPA PICNIC 1. Pick a good spot When you arrive at your destination you’ll need to consider a few key things. Shade is important – and will the spot you’ve chosen stay shady for the duration of your visit.

You can always wander and enjoy the sun but coming back to relax in a cooler spot is a must, especially with children in tow. Avoid standing water as insects could be an issue and take some notice of wind direction too. Finally make sure you’re positioned where you can see the view… rather than in the view.

I Love Summer cool bags and picnic collection. Cool bags from £10.99, Picnic back pack including a full picnic set £65.99 The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

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2. Something to sit on The romance of a blanket spread on the ground is easily conjured but in reality you may prefer a simple folding chair, especially for the more mature. Make sure your picnic blanket is plastic backed as ground that looks dry may often be damp and the back will be easily wiped clean of any dirt.

Charles Viancin food and pan cover £9.50 each, availble in a variety of novelty flower themes The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

3. Quality over quantity

Summerhouse by Navigate picninc blanket £26.99 The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

Packing a selection of quality treats is far better that a suitcase full of sandwiches that you end up feeding to the local wildlife – or worse, carrying back home. Think about finger foods that can be easily served together on your blanket, encouraging everyone to help themselves. Avoid too much cream or stickiness and bring suitable covers that will keep your spread insect free. Creating portioned pieces in advance will help with the whole DIY approach.

Sophie Allport ‘Pheasant’ Cool Bag £32 Barretts of Woodbridge Four person willow picnic basket £34.99 Elmers

4. Be practical Remember you’ll have to carry everything to your chosen spot. Invest in a good cool bag and think about what you’ll need in terms of plates and cutlery; be guided by your menu.

You’ll need hand wipes, sun cream, antihistamine cream in case of insect bites and don’t forget a rubbish bag – make sure you leave the spot as you found it.

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Homes & Interiors

JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer House by Navigate picnic back pack available in a selection of colours and styles from £69.99 The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

Essential SUFFOLK

always proud ~ to feature ~

LOCAL RETAILERS

Charles Viancin drink covers £7.99 (pack of 2) The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

Colourworks stainless steel vacuum flask £4.99 Elmers

Orla Kiely Scribble Stem 500ml flask £28 Barretts of Woodbridge

5. Make it fun That might mean not forgetting the corkscrew, but also think about individual lunch boxes for children ready packed with their favourite snacks. If you’re taking your dog give him a good walk before you settle to eat and make sore he has plenty of treats or something to chew while you enjoy your feast and don’t forget his water!

The Hungry Jungle Collection of insulated childs lunch and picnic bags from £9 each The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

STOCKISTS Barretts of Woodbridge 40 – 42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk Elmers 59 – 61 Edmonton Road, Kesgrave. T: 01473 623381 www.elmershardware.co.uk The Woodbridge Kitchen Company 7 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382091 www.woodbridgekitchencompany.co.uk

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Antiques & Auctions

AVOIDING A COSTLY MISTAKE

James Neal

Many of you will have particular dates which are significant to you and will also recall memorable events and where you were on those occasions.

The shooting of President Kennedy, the horrors of the attack on the Twin Towers, the moment when England won the World Cup may spring to some people’s minds. Obviously, in my case, I cannot remember what happened yesterday!

The pin badge was accompanied by a record – yes the return of the record stretches far and wide these days – the title of which was ‘Comrade in Struggle’ by the Leader/British Union

by Oswald Mosley.

It was those two items plus a quantity of ephemera together with a copy of Fascism by Oswald Mosley One Hundred Questions Asked and Answered which made up the Lot. Enquiries were received from far and wide clearly indicating the potential appeal.

Well, for those of you of the right age, where were you on 16th July 1939? The reason I ask this is that, had you happened to have been in Earls Court on that day, you may have been caught up in a fascist party meeting and, if you had, then it is conceivable you might have acquired a pin brooch and – more importantly – retained it.

So the message is clear, next time you attend an important event, keep hold of the promotional material surrounding it for in another seventy five years or so; you, your heirs or assigns, may well benefit financially.

One such pin badge was amongst an interesting array of ephemera which recently sold at auction for the princely sum of £2,500.

And to end on a lighter note you might like to know that it was all due to be sent to Landfill before it was saved for our auction. Now that would have been a costly mistake!

It certainly appears there is in some quarters a healthy appetite for literature and other items associated with Oswald Mosley and his like.

Kitchens

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EssentialSUFFOLK

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PLANTS on trend

The garden shows of summer are a must for those wanting the very latest look on their plots, so gardening expert Catharine Howard took a peek at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show

M and G heat loving garden

S

everal weeks have evaporated since the Chelsea Flower Show visit. I’ve examined my photos and scribbled notes. The sleuthing visit of one day gives a hysterical edge to fitting everything in; plants, design, new products and talking to as many exhibitors as possible. It’s a little like visiting an art gallery and lingering with every single picture. The mind begins to go ‘pappy’.

Kazuyauki Ishihara, helped by gardeners and technicians flown in from Japan, had made a garden that sang with simplicity and a lot of moss. I just love moss, even if it has to be shipped in from Sweden.

Are there moss gardens in Japan? I really hope so.

The show gardens in the Main Avenue swayed to a completely different drumbeat to the endearing Artisan gardens, with their stalls in the bosky bit of the Royal Hospital gardens. Main Avenue was full of television gantry and nervous exhibitors slicking their hair back, ready to talk to microphone.

There was a sense of the unachievable being executed and wallets being fatly turned inside out.

M and G garden took the concept of an old quarry in Malta and exhibited the heat-loving plants that would have colonised the place. Mr Basson, the designer, was tweed clad and preoccupied so I had a chat with his wife. Any indication of budget? She could not possibly divulge. Opposite the quarry, all was very chic grey with Charlotte Harris besuited, matching the hard landscaping of her stand. Hats off Kazuyauki Ishihara’s moss garden

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to Harris for pared down planting, emulating Canadian forests with succession plants.

At the end of the avenue and fronting an exhibit that looked like a floral spaceship newly docked from Mars, the RHS Greening Grey Britain Garden. I saw Nigel Dunnett the designer. The message here was to recreate a jolly urban space with flowers and vegetables; vegetation nurturing community.

Dunnett is an advocate of watersensitive design. This and recycling were on show. A dead attractive stand.

There is another category of show gardens that were sprinkled around the northeast end of the showground. These were ‘Fresh Gardens’. “All have a message to deliver through the media of their design and horticulture”. Ian Price had created a garden that was symbollic of the depression that he has lived with.

‘Mind Trap’ was a very clever from name and concept through to the planting. The centre of the small site gave the sense of entrapment. Ian was out to normalise the stigma and secrecy that surrounds mental health.

Of the planting throughout there was little to get me scribbling in my note book – so many weeds and wild plants dominated the stands. One stood apart and this was a garden designed by Matt Keightley and planted for texture with a ravishing selection of perennials supplied by Hortus Loci.

I made my way to the Grand Marquee and took a thorough sweep of the 3.5 acres. I will not distract you with the miniature hostas or comprehensive display of scrubbed potatoes nestling in pools of black cloth. Instead, I bring your attention to a lovely clematis named ‘Taiga’ in eye searing pistachio and purple launched by my favourite growers Taylors of Doncaster. Clematis is under-rated; you can plant for successional interest, large numbers of them are shade tolerant and maintenance is fairly minimal compared to other climbers. I will be planting Taiga with my clematis viticella type Mary Rose for a mass of dark purple small flowers to weave the two together in late summer. ‰

Garden watering made easy Hozelock 60m hose cart with 30m hose and fittings only £39.99 Hozelock 30m expanding hose only £44.99

Ask Elmers

Hozelock Aquastorm 15 sprinkler only £17.99

It’s important to choose the “ right products to carefully look after your garden in the dry summer months. The team at Elmers are here, ready to help and advise you

”

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Harcostar Garden Lake 200ltr water butt kit only £34.99 Hozelock 30m hose reel with 25m hose and fittings only £27.99

(includes tap, lid, stand and downpipe connector)

Elmers Hardware | 59-61 Edmonton Road | Kesgrave | Suffolk | 01473 623381 | www.elmershardware.co.uk

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Gardening

Otherwise it was the intersectional peonies that caught my eye on Binny Plants stand. These are a cross between tree and herbaceous peonies, have giant flowers, produce many blooms per plant – up to 50 and do not need staking. All in all a serious improvement on all the herbaceous troop for their sulky heed-hanging manners. Move over herbaceous brigade for intersectional peonies and lustrous shades away from the pinks and into the apricots and yellow. Get the catalogue and drool with colour lust.

Mind Trap

Cultivars of clematis and peonies apart, what is new on the plant front? Only one words says it: umbellifer, or Apiaceae to be correct. This family of plants includes parsley, carrots and some monsters such as hemlock and angelica. Someone somewhere started a love affair with cow parsley (my own garden was utterly spangled with black cow parsley back at Easter time), since that moment more and more of the umbellifers have crept into the plant palette – chaerophyllums, Ferula communis which is a truly giant plant and Peucedanum verticallare – the name says it all.

Forms of umbellifers were sneaking about on various nursery stands. Here is Valeriana pyreneaca and padding around the Marquee after umbellifers I was like a panther tracking down prey. Marina Christopher has a book on the subject out this summer so mark my words the umbellifers are on the march.

INFORMATION Catharine Howard is a designer, gardener and plants woman with many years’ experience in creating and renovating gardens. www.catharinehoward.co.uk

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Property

Essential

PROPERTY 74 75 77 79 81 82 83 92

Fenn Wright Flick & Son Neals Jackson-Stops & Staff Savills ECR Properties Clarke & Simpson Hopkins Homes

76 Horham

78 Brundish

80 Walberswick

82 Aldeburgh EssentialSUFFOLK

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Whatfield

North Ipswich

Approached via a gated entrance and in a beautiful setting is this attractive family home in need of some improvement but offers a fantastic opportunity and versatile accommodation. The property is situated on the outskirts of Ipswich in mature grounds of approximately 3/4 of an acre.

Guide Price £725,000

A fine period, farmhouse believed to date back to the 13th Century, retaining some stunning period features in this popular village, set in mature gardens of approximately half an acre.

• • • • • • • •

Chattisham

Master bedroom with ensuite 4 further bedrooms Family bathroom Ground floor cloakroom Kitchen/breakfast room Garaging & workshop BT Superfast broadband EPC Rating - F

Guide Price £650,000

Felixstowe An impressive detached family home situated in a semi-rural position with views over open farmland to both front and rear.

The property is conveniently located some five miles west of Ipswich.

Situated just a stone’s throw away from the seafront is this immaculately presented and attractive seven bedroom detached family home.

Offers in excess of £550,000

• 7 bedrooms • 4 bath/shower rooms • 3 receptions, kitchen/ breakfast room • Cellar, south-west facing garden • Off road parking • Detached tandem garage • Heated swimming pool • Generous plot • EPC Rating - E

• • • • • • • •

5 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 3 reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast/family room Large Garage and carport Ample off road parking Field views to front and rear EPC Rating - C

Guide Price £699,950

• • • • • • • • •

5 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 4 reception rooms Games room & studio/office Double bay cart lodge Workshop Mature gardens and pond In need of some improvement EPC Rating - C

JULY/AUGUST 2017

ROSE FARM FACTS LOCATION: HORHAM GUIDE PRICE: £1,175,000 AGENT: CLARKE & SIMPSON

FARMHOUSE LIVING Sitting in four acres of beautiful Suffolk countryside Rose Farm is a superb timber framed rural property offering spacious accommodation and grounds and room for two families. The main house – a Grade II listed former farmhouse has five bedrooms while a separate cottage/annexe also offers a further three bedrooms.

framed and vaulted open plan kitchen/breakfast/living room which has vast windows overlooking the gardens.

Also there is a large dining hall, snug, study, utility room and two cloakrooms.

On the first floor is a master suite with shower room, a further four bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as a first floor sitting room.

The property has been beautifully and sympathetically improved and extended over recent years and is believed to date from the fifteenth century. Most rooms have good-sized windows and the advantage of tall ceilings which give the property a feeling of comfort and light.

Standing to the east of the house is Rose Farm Cottage. It was converted in 2005 from a garage/store/gym and is now a first class cottage/annexe. Planning Permission allows it to be used for ancillary accommodation for the main house – the vendors currently have family living there but it could also be used as a holiday let (subject to obtaining the relevant consent). The cottage

On the ground floor as well as a 31’5 x 17’4 drawing room there is an oak

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includes a sitting room with wood burning stove, an open plan kitchen/ dining room, utility room, three double bedrooms, an en-suite bathroom and ‘Jack and Jill’ shower room.

Both house and cottage are set well back from the lanes, and the property is enclosed by mature hedging. As well as the fenced paddocks, which have stables and a field shelter, there are the south and west facing gardens with mature beds and trees.

INFORMATION Clarke & Simpson 01728 724200 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

JULY/AUGUST 2017

THE CHANTRY FACTS LOCATION: BRUNDISH GUIDE PRICE: £1,450.000 AGENT: JACKSON-STOPS & STAFF

MOATED COUNTRY HOUSE The Chantry is a classic and elegantly appointed partially moated 16th Century Grade II Listed country house, set in tranquil gardens and grounds of about 81⁄2 acres in a secluded rural setting. It’s located next door to the impressive church of St Lawrence in the heart of the rural hamlet of Brundish, and is a handsome five bedroom property with a rendered and colour washed façade.

The house features well laid out accommodation with a series of light, well-proportioned and beautifully presented principal reception rooms and bedrooms. These include a drawing room with views and French doors to the garden, a central dining room, plus a large sitting room open plan to the

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bespoke kitchen, complete with AGA, and adjoining breakfast room. Beyond, the service rooms include a utility/boot room, laundry, butler’s pantry and study.

On the first floor the dual aspect master bedroom benefits from a large dressing room, along with his and hers bath and shower rooms. There are a further two double bedrooms and two bathrooms on this floor. Two staircases rise to the second floor, independently accessing two further double bedrooms, one of which benefits from a large landing/nursery bedroom and both of which have en-suite shower rooms, interconnected through a secret door. All bedrooms enjoy views either across the gardens or towards the church.

The property enjoys a delightfully secluded and tranquil setting, sitting in 41⁄2 acres of partially moated landscaped gardens, including a variety of well-kept lawns with colourful herbaceous borders, beautiful parterre, croquet lawn, southeast facing breakfast terrace adjacent to the moat, mediaeval fish ponds, kitchen garden, orchard and enclosed swimming pool garden. Beyond lies a four acre paddock with an open fronted machinery store.

INFORMATION Jackson-Stops & Staff 01473 218218 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

jackson-stops.co.uk Specialists in prime residential property

Flowton, Nr Ipswich

Ashbocking, Nr Ipswich

A classic former rectory with well laid out accommodation enjoying a semi-rural edge of hamlet setting.

Set at the end of a no through lane close to the parish church and enjoying an enchanting hamlet setting.

Guide £1,150,000

Guide £2,250,000

● Over 3,200 sq ft ● 3 reception ● Study ● Studio/play room ● 5 bedrooms ● 3 bathrooms ● Former coach house ● Garaging & workshop ● Delightful well-kept gardens ● Far reaching rural views ● About 1 acre in all

● Classic Georgian former vicarage ● 3 receptions ● Study ● 7 bedrooms ● 4 bathrooms ● Studio/games room ● Swimming pool ● Tennis court ● Formal gardens + paddock ● About 9.6 acres ● JSA Strutt & Parker

Dedham, Essex/Suffolk Borders

Burgh, Nr Woodbridge

A handsome farmhouse positioned on the edge of Dedham standing in over 4 acres of grounds.

Enjoying a tucked away rural setting on the boundary of the Burgh & Hasketon parishes, an extended period farmhouse in grounds of about 6 acres.

Guide £1,375,000

Guide £800,000

● 4 receptions ● Study ● 5 bedrooms ● 2 bathrooms ● Double garage with workshop ● Garden ● Stables ● Paddocks ● Meadow ● Access to footpaths & bridleways ● Manningtree station 5.5 miles

● 3 receptions ● 4 bedrooms ● 2 bathrooms ● Flexible use studio wing ● Garaging & storage barns ● Former granary ● Mature gardens ● Grassland meadows ● 4 miles from Woodbridge

Thinking of selling? Contact us for a FREE market appraisal Call Tim Dansie, Jonathan Penn or James Squirrell 01473 218218 ipswich@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

JULY/AUGUST 2017

THE OLD RECTORY FACTS LOCATION: WALBERSWICK GUIDE PRICE: £1,200,000 AGENT: FLICK & SON

BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOME IN SOUGHT-AFTER LOCATION The Old Rectory in Walberswick is an elegant house in a beautiful location close to the historic heart of the village.

eventually able to buy it,” she said.

“It is a very happy house in a beautiful location.”

Built in 1931, this spacious four to five bedroom home is situated in grounds extending to around three quarters of an acre and stands adjacent to the picturesque 15th Century parish church of St. Andrew. The current owners of The Old Rectory have undertaken some refurbishment to create a beautiful family home with generously proportioned rooms while maintaining many of its original features including arts and crafts style windows and original fireplaces.

An outstanding feature of the home is a generous bespoke handmade kitchen

by Henry Gordon Jones including a built-in china cabinet, an oil Esse range cooker which also provides hot water and heating, as well as built-in electric hob, oven, dishwasher and a double butler sink. Double doors open out onto the rear garden. The dining and sitting rooms have double aspects, making them light and airy, with a log-burning stove in the sitting room.

Shirley Keeble has lived at The Old Rectory since 2003 and says it was a property she always had an ambition to own when visiting the village. “It was our ‘hopefully’ home until we were

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The four first floor bedrooms all feature interesting and varied views over The Old Rectory’s surroundings with the double aspect master bedroom enjoying outstanding views of the church. Downstairs there is a double

aspect family room, which also doubles as a guest bedroom.

The well-established gardens are mainly laid to lawn with a variety of shrubs, hedges and trees. The hedging allows the garden to be separated into different areas including a children’s play area.

Double gates lead to a shingle driveway and forecourt with ample parking.

Richard Brown from agents Flick & Son said: “The Old Rectory is a delightful and spacious family home in an envious location and really merits a viewing to appreciate its well appointed features and great surroundings.”

INFORMATION Flick & Son 01502 722253 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

JULY/AUGUST 2017

ALDEBURGH RIVER VIEWS THE GABLES FACTS LOCATION: ALDEBURGH GUIDE PRICE: OFFERS INVITED AGENT: SAVILLS

The Gables is a superbly situated, spacious seven bedroomed town house with exceptional far reaching views over the River Alde. The house which is constructed predominantly from brick has great character with features such as open fireplaces, wellproportioned rooms and bay windows which take advantage of the superb views from the upstairs rooms.

The owners of the house, which has been in the same family since 1880, have converted an attached outbuilding to create a spacious garden room with French windows opening out to the terrace and gardens. The layout of the accommodation works remarkably well with a central hall opening out to the main reception rooms on the ground floor and a large landing serving

E S TAT E

A G E N C Y

F O R

the bedrooms on the first floor. The top floor bedrooms that face south have the finest views over the river, the marshes and the sea.

The gardens of The Gables lie to the south of the house and are lawned with several fine mature trees. There is a large paved terrace to the south fronting the garden room and to the rear lies a parking sweep fronting the garage and outbuildings.

INFORMATION Savills 01473 234831 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

E Q U E S T R I A N

&

L I F E S T Y L E

P R O P E R T I E S

Established equestrian and lifestyle estate agent covering East Anglia Offering a knowledgeable and personal service with a straightforward and realistic approach. Discreet marketing service for those wishing to sell without publicity. Properties wanted for waiting buyers.

Emily Cooper-Reade MNAEA

Excess £1,650,000

Guide £1,175,000

WHEPSTEAD, NEAR BURY ST EDMUNDS • 4 bedroom period farmhouse • set away from neighbours • not listed • holiday let • impressive equestrian facilities • barn with 10 monarch boxes • 5 horse covered horsewalker • further modern farm buildings • traditional barn • around 35 ACRES (stms) of paddocks/ grounds • further 55 ACRES (stms) arable/woodland • EER E

PIXEY GREEN, NEAR STRADBROKE • 4 bedroom • beautifully presented • annexe potential • Grade II listed • stand-alone location • excellent purpose-built equestrian facilities • 40m x 20m manège • modern barn • loose boxes • traditional barn • post and rail paddocks • around 20 ACRES (stms)

www.ecrproperties.com 01449 711727 / 07767 327327 82

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@ECRproperties for all the lastest property news

Horham, Nr Eye £1,175,000

Framlingham £700,000

A superbly presented and spacious former farmhouse, along with a detached three bedroom cottage, sitting centrally within grounds of over 4 acres. Sympathetically extended and recently refurbished farmhouse comprising dining hall, superb open plan kitchen/breakfast/living room, snug, study, utility room and two cloakrooms.

Master bedroom with en-suite shower room. Four further first floor bedrooms, along with two bathrooms and a sitting room. Cottage with sitting room, kitchen/dining room, utility room, three double bedrooms, en-suite bathroom and shower room. Over 4 acres. Outbuildings. Ref: 5683

A stunning former granary offering open plan living accommodation, situated in the heart of Framlingham. Offering spacious accommodation of 2,500 sq ft – reception hall, open plan kitchen/dining/living room, sitting room and cloakroom.

Master bedroom with en-suite dressing room and wet room, bedroom two with en-suite shower room and adjoining dressing room/study. Three further bedrooms and bathroom. Low maintenance gardens and parking. EPC = C Ref: 5718

Copdock, Nr Ipswich £695,000

Laxfield, Nr Framlingham £650,000

Laxfield, Nr Framlingham £595,000

An extremely well presented four bedroom detached house standing in grounds of 2 acres, which include a paddock, manege, five stables and substantial store. Hallway, study, sitting room, open plan kitchen/dining room/living room, and shower room. Four first floor bedrooms and bathroom. Large integral garage and office. Ample off-road parking and attractive garden. EPC = D Ref: 5765

An attractive village house set in the centre of Laxfield. Sitting room, drawing room, dining room, kitchen with pantry, utility room and cloakroom. First floor landing/sitting room, master bedroom with en-suite and dressing area. Three further bedrooms, along with en-suite bathroom and shower room. Parking, domestic outbuildings and double garage with a wine store. Rear garden. Ref: 5728

A period cottage with grounds of approximately 3.5 acres and an extensive range of modern and historic outbuildings. Double sized sitting/dining room, drawing room, kitchen, utility room and shower room. Three double bedrooms and large dressing/ cloakroom. Ref: 5527

Debenham £500,000

Snape, Nr Heritage Coast £445,000

Cratfield, Nr Halesworth £395,000

A unique Grade II Listed house in the centre of Debenham.

Entrance porch, sitting room, dining room, drawing room, kitchen/ breakfast room, playroom/study, utility room, cloak/shower room and cellar. Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, guest bedroom with en-suite shower room, family bathroom and 42' Long Room/Bedroom 3. Courtyard garden. Garaging. Ref: 5751

A well-presented four bedroom house set within Drury Park in the centre of Snape. Entrance hall, 17' sitting room, dining room, kitchen, conservatory, study, cloakroom and boot room. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, three further bedrooms and bathroom. Double garage and driveway. Gardens to the front and rear. EPC = E Ref: 5752

A beautifully presented detached house in Cratfield. Hallway, kitchen/breakfast room, conservatory, dining room, sitting room, study and cloakroom. Four first floor bedrooms, two with en-suite shower rooms and a bathroom. Front and rear gardens. Parking for two vehicles. Grounds of 0.12 acres. EPC = C Ref: 5733

Clarke and Simpson, Well Close Square, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9DU

T: 01728 724200

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

Essential Faces

Snowflake Ball Home-Start in Suffolk (formerly Home-Start East Ipswich and Coastal) held its second Snowflake Ball, for more than 150 guests at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall. The ‘snowflake’ theme represents the unique and fragile nature of their client families. This year’s event was hosted by Steve Flory of Hudson Signs with auctioneer James Neal as special guest and Soul Kitchen providing musical entertainment.

Laurence & Rashan Gannon, Jonathan & Helen Clarkson-Fieldsend, Irene Bredican

Ian & Gail Roberts, Darrell & Claire Dunnett,Trevor & Dana Roberts, Nic & Dave Roper

Rachel & Cenzo Townshend

Chris Yeo, Sam & Rod Fulcher, Nicky Yeo 84

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Julian Bowden, Julia Townsend

Louise Potter, Natalie Highland, Rebecca Hughes, Ella Heeney, Tara Somers, Sarah Holmes

Jeff Hicks, Ros Oliver, Liz Hicks, Alan Oliver

Nick & Jo Hutchison

Dave Collins, Janice Jones, Steve Flory, Richard Jones, Sarah Collins

To view more, or purchase, photographs from these events visit essentialsuffolk.com

Art For Action Action Medical Research is the leading UK-wide charity saving and changing children’s lives through medical research and its Ipswich Group organised their second Art for Action event recently at the Tudor Barn, Belstead. The exhibition and sale of anonymous artworks was opened by ‘Amazing Aiden’ Mitchell, a recipient of the charity’s life changing work. See more about Aiden’s story at amazingaiden.com

Anthony & Debbie Wooding

Fleur, Aiden & Keith Mitchell

John & Mary Duffy

Virginia French, Lucy Hynes, Diana Johnson, Karen Last, Jeanette Brierley, Helen Armstrong-Bland

Rod Burrell, Christine Walters

Maureen Gerber, Jilly Harrison-Pinder

Chris McGlone, Krystina Smithers, Karen Last, Angela Smith, Gracey Whiley, Shirley Hines

Stuart Eckersley, Alan Braithwaite, Dan Whiting

Carol Leggett, Carlton Vajzovic

EssentialSUFFOLK

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Essential Faces

Suffolk Show With ideal weather this year, the Suffolk Show basked in sunshine. Crowds enjoyed the entertaining mix of livestock shows, Grand Ring events, display stands and shopping. Organised by the Suffolk Agricultural Association the annual Suffolk Show is a splendid showcase for the county.

Fay & Chris Clarke

Tim Holder, Judy Dow

Heaven Sochon, Nick Bush, Jill Bryce

Laura Milldown, Katie Milldown

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Laura Manning, Michael Shade, Nate Coward, Karen Finch, Melvyn Howe, Matt Coward

Julie Turnbull, Michael Bedford

Pat Stalling, Sara Tatum

Tristan Gladwell, Ben Gladwell, David Johnson, Roger Gladwell

Edward Burgess, Edward Terry, Sue Terry

Claudia Roberts, Jackie Eades

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

Mark Murphy, Matthew Piercy, Alex Tarry

Vernon Blackmore, Paddy Bishop

David Wilkinson, Rob Collins, Pippa Grant, Rachel Bullock

Michael Grist, Jill Barrett

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Essential Directory DESIGN SERVICES

GIFTS

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JULY/AUGUST 2017

My Suffolk

to know the whole area well. This means there is always somewhere you haven’t been or hidden treasure that you haven’t seen.

Where’s the best place to enjoy the Suffolk summer?

I love water and our coastline is incredible whatever time of the year it is. Snape looking out over the reed beds, Orford Quay, Dunwich, Shingle Street have become iconic national if not international destinations. It’s brilliant to have all that beauty on our doorstep. The lush undulations of the countryside around Bury St Edmunds and over towards Bildeston and Lavenham are stunning too. I live towards the north of the county where the landscape is much flatter which makes for bigger views and spectacular skies.

Is there one unmissable event that you would recommend?

Yes there is! It involves so many aspects of what I enjoy about Suffolk country living. The incredibly beautiful and historic surroundings of Helmingham Hall, thousands of dogs from across the county and their wonderful owners, all delivered brilliantly by 150 volunteers. It is Suffolk Dog Day’s 10th Birthday on July 30 this year, every penny raised, over £435,000 so far, is distributed by Suffolk Community Foundation to support Suffolk charities and community groups. It’s a simple but brilliant idea, a spectacular day out for all the family; Suffolk helping Suffolk.

Tim Holder is the Development Director of Suffolk Community Foundation which, this year, is celebrating the 10th birthday of its visionary fundraising event; Suffolk Dog Day. What was it like growing up in Suffolk?

I had the best childhood growing up on the eastern outskirts of Ipswich. I was a very ‘outdoors’ child, never sporty at all; but I had my bike, my dog Roger (who was a lovable but very strong-willed Bassett Hound cross Beagle). He would go for a walk and I would follow. We came home when he was ready to. I basically spent the first ten years of my life climbing trees and building dens. Very happy days.

What makes the county special?

It has to be the people and the fabulous diversity of the landscape. The absolutely best thing about my role at Suffolk Community Foundation is that I meet really inspiring people every day. Suffolk people care about each other, they love their communities and they often make enormous personal sacrifices to support them. Also, it’s a huge county from north to south and east to west. I don’t think many of us can claim

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Do you have any hobbies?

I have quite a big garden, well it’s a field at the moment, but I am really enjoying the process of trying to make something of it. I also love music and the arts, so I’m often out and about enjoying something. That’s another great thing about Suffolk; we are blessed with so much talent and some incredible places to enjoy it. Live is best of course, I very much enjoyed The Aldeburgh Festival’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream just recently. I also go to see live screenings in cinemas from The National Theatre and The Royal Ballet, they are really great. I sing, but not as much as I’d like and I’m currently rehearsing a few numbers with local musicians from my village. It’s a hotbed of talent you know!

Where do you like to eat out?

We have a fabulous new vegetarian restaurant called The Walnut Tree just opened near us in Stoke Ash. I’m not vegetarian, but their Mushroom Wellington persuades me that I could be. I do especially enjoy a country pub lunch with friends and a view like The Maybush at Waldringfield or The Ramsholt Arms, but I think The Queen’s Head in Eye is very hard to beat for a Sunday roast.

Is there one picture you’d suggest to sum up the county?

We have so many incredible vistas and views in Suffolk, the question is where to start. I think when nature, history and people come together, the results are particularly special. I love the carnivals, festivals and outdoor music events that happen throughout Suffolk during the summer months. The fireworks and lantern parades down at Aldeburgh and Thorpeness are magical. Of course, seeing thousands of people and their dogs enjoying Suffolk Dog Day is really special. The whole event is set against the fabulous backdrop of Helmingham Hall and its stunning gardens, it’s a wonderful melting pot of Suffolk life.

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