eastlife www.eastlife.co.uk
Living life in the East
FR
EE
April 2018
Plan your perfect Summer Dog-friendly days out & destinations A taste of East Anglia PLUS: Vintage fairs, cycling routes, arts & more
ADVERTORIAL
GOING ELECTRIC IN THE FENS W
ith the government making almost weekly announcements on diesel cars it seems the fens are leading the way in the uptake of either electric or plug in hybrid vehicles. Volkswagen has announced a £18.7 Billion investment into such cars and as such there arises the need to build an infrastructure to support these vehicles. From the small and versatile E-Up! The hugely favoured E Golf to the ever popular Passat GTE plug in hybrid, Volkswagen have pulled out all the stops to cater for this growing sector. Vindis Volkswagen have teamed up with another Cambridgeshire based innovative company called Flexisolar who have recently been awarded a government grant to roll out the production of their new solar panelled car charging ports. With targets set for the phase out of internal combustion engines, global motoring manufacturers are switching their focus to electric only production and ownership of electric vehicles is increasing significantly. This trend is set to accelerate over the coming months and years. Providing EV charging infrastructure for customers and staff at scale and with a renewable energy source will be essential. For East Anglia, and the Fens in particular, this evolution represents an opportunity to provide the essential infrastructure required for the conversion to electric vehicles whilst also providing a revenue generating opportunity.
The phrase “Range Anxiety” is often used when discussing electric vehicles. The concern is that an EV may only have a range of around 120-180 miles on a full charge. So naturally people compare this to their existing combustion engine vehicle and are concerned about the possibility of running out of fuel. This fear is easily removed when we consider how, where and when an electric vehicle is charged. For an EV, everywhere with electricity supply is a potential fuel station. When the vehicle is at home in the evening and at weekends then plugging in to the home couldn’t be easier either through a simple 3 pin plug or, more efficiently (and quickly) through a home charging point that costs just a few hundred pounds to install. And this is where the provision of electric charging points and solar carports at commercial scale at the other end of the cars journey each day comes in to its own. If the office, commercial premise, retail outlet or any other destination
with a car park and daily visitors provides for electric vehicle charging through the free energy collected from the solar carport each day, then “Range Anxiety” disappears and the driver of the electric vehicle is only too pleased to bring their vehicle to your site. You can choose to give them the electricity for charging free of charge, as a benefit. Or you can charge a nominal amount for the charging and begin to generate revenue. It’s up to you. Any electricity generated that is not used by EV charging is delivered to the
WHY INSTALL A SOLAR CARPORT AND CHARGING SOLUTION?
premises and all the cost savings from the renewable energy generation are gained for your business. The upfront costs for the infrastructure are site and size dependent but a typical return on investment (year 1) should be somewhere between 7%-10%. And that is assuming you are giving the electric charging away as a benefit. ROI improves if you choose to charge for the service.
• Flexisolar are based in Fenstanton and are the UKs leading solar carport/EV charging infrastructure company.
• Upgrading existing parking can provide weather-proofing, EV charging, improved security and advertising space too.
• FlexiSolar carport solutions generate clean power at the point of use while providing EV charge-point infrastructure and a premium parking experience.
• Utilising existing parking areas generates cost effective power without sacrificing valuable land resources.
e-Golf BEV 136ps 5 door Direct Drive Blue-e-Motion http://vw.co.uk/s/2dipp STANDARD KEY FEATURES: • Car-Net App-Connect • Convenience pack • Darkened rear LED lights with sweeping indicator function • Discover Pro DVD nav/radio system (DNS PRO) with Gesture Control • Front assist including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) • LED headlights, range adjustable • Mirror pack - Remote electrically foldable door mirrors with kerb view • Parking sensors, front and rear
Passat GTE PHEV TSI 218ps 4 door DSG Blue-e-Motion http://vw.co.uk/s/240jx STANDARD KEY FEATURES: • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) • Air conditioning - 3-zone automatic climate control with an improved anti-allergen filter • Discover Navigation System (DNS) • ergoComfort front seats • Heat insulating, tinted glass from B pillar backwards - 65% • Multifunction colour display • Rear LED Lights with dynamic lighting effect • Two charging cables
Vindis Huntingdon Washingley Road, Cambridgeshire, Huntingdon PE29 6WP
01480 270286 www.volkswagen.co.uk Opening times: Mon - Fri: 08:30 - 18:00 Sat: 08:30 - 17:00 Sun: 11:00 - 16:00
The GLC. Power and finesse combined. Introducing Mercedes-Benz first ever mid-sized SUV for the UK market. A remarkable vehicle, it boasts the muscular looks and capabilities of a 4x4, yet it handles with finesse and agility. Standard features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive while options include the Off-Road Package and AIR BODY CONTROL suspension to further enhance the car’s off-road credentials. Producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the GLC 220 d 4MATIC clocks 0 to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds. Yet it returns up to 56.5 mpg combined with CO2 emissions as low as 129 g/km.
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the GLC range: urban 26.2(10.8)-51.4(5.5), extra urban 40.9(6.9)60.1(4.7), combined 34.0(8.3)-56.5(5.0). CO2 emissions 189-129 g/km. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.
The best or nothing.
Mercedes-Benz of Bury St. Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100 Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307 Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000 Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900 www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz
PUBLISHER - Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696
EDITOR - Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904
From the
editor
PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam
Dear Reader,
paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142
This year spring officially begun on 20 March so let’s all forgive Mother Nature for last month’s second blast of Arctic weather and look forward to the times ahead.
SOCIAL MEDIA - Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539
WEB DEVELOPER - Ben Attenborough ben@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 777070
ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129
SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635
HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4EY
Special thanks to our contributors Gerla De Boer, Dolly Osborne, Sue Cooke, Tracey Dean, Wendy Howes, Katrina Otter, Collette Hoefkens, Ruth Essex, Liz Mattock, Ruby Reed, Abby Knight, Shelley Beth, Amanda French, Matt Dicks, Visit Suffolk EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.
The region is starting to wake up, bringing with it weekends full of fun things to do. Days out, country fairs, dog-friendly events and food and drink festivals are all on the agenda. Discover how you can sample a taste of the countryside from page 51, enjoy a day out with the pooch on page 38 or have a roaring good time with the kids on page 43! In this issue we’re also looking ahead to brighter times with ideas for summer getaways (it’s never too early to book) and uncovering the Suffolk coast’s hidden gems! Let us know what you’re up to by visiting our Facebook page and sharing your photos from around the region! Have a great month!
Emma Kemsley
Find us on online: /eastlifemag
@eastmagazines
@eastlifemag
www.eastlife.co.uk
On the
front cover: ‘Deden at Woodbridge, Suffolk’ by Alfie Carpenter As a member of East Anglia’s Artworks group, Alfie Carpenter is a regular performer, musician and workshop deliverer in schools and as part of Aldeburgh Music. He was recently awarded First Prize during Paint Out Wells-nextthe-Sea 2016 and Second Prize in Wells, 2015.
DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR
EASTLIFE ON THE GO Available on the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Just search “eastlife”
Full bio: www.paintoutnorwich. org/artists/alfie-carpenter
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5
EDDINGTON • CAMBRIDGE
ALL THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS Eddington, a distinctive and enduring new neighbourhood in north west Cambridge, is the University of Cambridge’s vision for an outstanding extension to the city that delivers sustainable living, learning and working in a vibrant urban environment.
Available for all to buy Athena is exemplar homes designed for the 21st century; apartments built to award- winning designs, inspired by the city’s historic character. A home for today; in tomorrow’s Cambridge.
Stunning apartments with superior interior specification Studios, one, two and three bedroom apartments from £299,950
EDDINGTON A new urban neighbourhood for Cambridge
University of Cambridge Primary School
SIMPLE, SMART SUSTAINABLE
A PLACE TO MEET
ON YOUR BIKE
Exemplar and sustainable homes
Shops, market square and community centre
To town and beyond
A unique collaboration between Hill and University of Cambridge
Neighbourhood parks and playing fields
To find out more
WWW.ATHENA-CAMBRIDGE.CO.UK 01223 607200 *Prices and information correct at time of going to press.
13-17 NEWS FLASH
A round-up of monthly news and events
19-21 SUFFOLK SECRETS
Hidden spots on the Suffolk Coast
24
29-31 PLAN YOUR SUMMER BREAK
The best locations for a mini break
35-39 DOG-FRIENDLY Tails About Town & events
41-43 LITTLE EAST
Mum’s the Word and fun at Dinosaur Adventure
38
45 EDUCATION School open days
49-57 FOOD & DRINK
News, the Cambridge Foodie, food fairs and East Anglian tipples 61-63 HEALTH 2018’s best cycling events
67-69 FASHION
Fashion vs Style and vintage fairs
70-71 WEDDINGS
How to choose the perfect flowers
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Contents
70
April 2018
79-89 INTERIORS
Bathrooms on a budget, gardens and how to rent your property
91-93 ARTS
Monthly column and the latest news
77
95-101 CAMBRIDGESHIRE The best burgers in Cambridge
103-107 ESSEX
A walk around Rayleigh plus theatre listings
85 109-119 SUFFOLK
Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket
121-129 NORFOLK
Secret Norfolk, Wymondham and listings
131-137 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS
Days out in Bedford and Woburn eastlife.co.uk
7
Cambridgeshire’s Independent Specialist
BMW & MINI
www.bartlett-auto.com Huntingdon 01480 459771 Peterborough 01733 852955
A real alternative to residential care. Live-in care in your own home. Live-in Care
Respite Care
Able Community Care has been providing Live-in care packages, a true alternative to moving into a care home, since 1980. Holiday Companion Care
Home from Hospital Care
Call us for more information
www.ablecommunitycare.com
01603 764567
info@ablecommunitycare.com
Able Community Care Providing Live-in Care Services throughout the UK In 1980 it was common for people with a disability and for older people who had become frail to move into a residential care setting. Councils provided some localised care with their Home Help teams but only for a few hours per week. The idea of being able to stay in your own home when your care needs became high dependency was a new concept, but it was this thought that persuaded Angela Gifford to offer a care service which would support people, who required care over a twenty-four-hour period, to stay in their home of choice, their own. Carers would offer domestic support, personal care and companionship whilst living in a person’s home for a fortnightly period. At the end of each fortnight they would be replaced by another live-in carer and subsequently each person we cared for would choose the carers whom they wanted to care for them on a rotational basis. Thirty-eight years later we care for people from young adults to centenarians. Many of our clients have been in receipt of our Live-in Care Service for over ten years. Similarly, many of our live-in carers have been working with us for ten years or more. The Live-in Care option has expanded to help people when other situations arise where care support is needed. Many relatives are cared for by their own families, but family carers need a break and our Respite Care Service can provide a carer to move into your home and provide the support needed whilst your family is away. Old style convalescent care has almost vanished. The convalescent homes of the past where, after an operation, you may have been sent for one or two weeks to regain independence before returning home after an operation can no longer be found. Our Home from Hospital Service brings back that practical, recuperative service into your own home safely helping you to fully recover and gain back your independence. Many older people dream of their past holidays and would like to perhaps visit such places one more time. Many disabled people dream of where they would like to go, if only they could. Our Holiday Care Companion Service offers opportunities to holiday with a carer offering support and companionship throughout the UK and internationally. Able Community Care has information packs which are available for the four care services we provide. To obtain a pack either telephone 01603 764567 Email to info@ablecommunitycare.com Further details can be fund on our website at www.ablecommunitycare.com
Angela Gifford MD Able Community Care
Humphry Repton
Art & Nature for the Duke of Bedford Exhibition open daily
woburnabbey.co.uk/Repton
Open daily
FIND US ON
07/03/2018 11:49
Eastlife Diary From Busking to the Big Time Si Cranstoun is bringing his stunning Doo Wop, Rock n Roll and Rocking Rhythm & Blues show to the region when Terry Dash Music presents ‘Twisting the Night Away’ this month. It will be showing at Cromer Pavilion on 14 April, The New Wolsey Theatre on 22nd, The Key Theatre Peterborough on 27th and Broadway Theatre Letchworth on 29 April.
2018 Ampthill Literary Festival Saturday 28 April
Witness England’s most legendary battle at epic St George’s Day Festival
Taking place at Parkside Hall, Ampthill, under the auspices of The Ampthill Festival, this year’s event will open with two children’s events for middle school children and ages 3-8 years. Afternoon sessions will be opened by Classic FM DJs John Suchet and Tim Lohoreau. The afternoon will see an interview with Rowan Coleman and a celebration of Bedfordshire authors. For event timings and ticket prices visit www.ampthillfestival.co.uk
Pomp, pageantry and plenty of patriotic flag waving will be the order of the day as English Heritage’s famous St George’s Festival returns to Wrest Park on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April, 10.30am-6pm. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/st-georges-day
The East Anglian Game & Country Fair
The Broadway Theatre in Peterborough has something for everyone this month. Families can follow the yellow brick road in The Wizard of Oz Pantomime on 10 April (3pm – 7pm, tickets start from £16).
28-29 April Taking place at Euston Estate, near Thetford, expect world class events and attractions including the famous JCB Dancing Diggers, The British Scurry and many more. There’s animals galore with ponies, Gun Dog Displays and the Sheep Dog & Duck Show, plus a range of country activities, crafts, shopping and food. Tickets priced £15 for adults, £6 for children. Visit www.ukgamefair.co.uk for more information.
What’s On At The Broadway Theatre?
Things get comical when sassy and smart Ruby Wax brings her new one-woman show, based on her number one best seller, “A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled”, to the stage on 17 April. Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences from 23-28 April (tickets start from £20). Book at www.ticketsource.co.uk/thebroadway or call 01733 306071.
The Hertfordshire Garden Show 5-7 May Get inspiration and ideas for your garden at The Hertfordshire Garden Show at Knebworth House. Experts will be on hand to share tips, while exhibitors will sell quality plants, flowers and furnishings. Make sure you stop by the craft and cut flower marquee! Entry is included with Park & Gardens admission, £9.50 per person. Open 9.30am to 5pm. www.knebworthhouse.com
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LODGE COACHES
Forest Live Thetford Forest NR BRANDON, SUFFOLK
Est 1920
Thursday 7 June
THE SCRIPT + SPECIAL GUEST TOM WALKER
Saturday 9 June
PAUL HEATON & JACQUI ABBOTT + SPECIAL GUEST BILLY BRAGG
VINTAGE VEHICLE HIRE
for weddings & special occasions Enjoy a day out, wedding or special occasion in one of our lovingly restored vintage coaches. Tickets: 03000 680400 Buy online/info: forestry.gov.uk/music
We have a Day Excursion programme picking up in Witham, Tiptree, Great Totham, Wickham Bishops, Heybridge and Maldon We have lots of trips arranged, some new and many old favourites including houses, gardens, coastal areas and various events.
Hopefully we have something for everyone in our current brochure. View on-line at
www.lodgecoaches.co.uk or phone for your copy on
01245 231262 Follow us on Twitter
St GeorGe’S
FeSTiVAl Sat 21 – Sun 22 April 10am – 6pm Join us at the biggest St George’s Day event in the country.
10 %
OFF
Online OFFeR Book before 20 April
Silsoe, Bedfordshire MK54 4HR
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
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WEDDINGS | PRIVATE FUNCTIONS | CONFERENCES Situated within secluded and mature gardens, Woodland Manor has a considerable reputation for offering guests a traditional English country house getaway in the heart of Bedfordshire.
Relax and unwind in the cosy bar, enjoy afternoon tea or a celebration meal in our restaurant, celebrate your wedding in style or retire to one of our 34 comfortable and well-appointed bedrooms.
For further information please visit our website or contact the Events Department Green Lane, Clapham, Bedford MK41 6EP Tel: 01234 363281 www.woodlandmanorhotel.co.uk conference@woodlandmanorhotel.co.uk
Around region the
Tickets now on sale for Battle Proms at Hatfield House Tickets are now on sale for the Battle Proms, the popular open-air picnic concert, which takes place at Hatfield House on 14 July. Battle Proms is a summer celebration with live orchestral music, carefully choreographed Spitfire and parachute displays, dramatic cannon fire and cavalry displays with a spectacular musical firework finale. For the first time the event is in support of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity working with personnel, veterans and their families. Early bird tickets are now on sale, priced £36 until 1 May at www.battleproms.com
First Highlights announced for Holt Festival’s 10th anniversary North Norfolk’s Holt Festival is planning to celebrate its 10th anniversary in style judging by the ‘early’ announcements that have just been made ahead of the full programme being revealed later in the year. The 2018 Festival runs from 21 – 29 July and is the first year under artistic director Stash Kirkbride. Jasper Carrott, one of the UK’s favourite comedians, will be bringing his show Stand Up & Rock, combining stand up comedy with an all-star band featuring Bev Bevan, founding member of ELO and The Move. Chart topper Leo Sayer promises to thrill the Theatre in the Woods audience on Saturday 28 July with a crowdpleasing romp through his best-loved songs. Other shows have been announced from former leader of the Liberal Democrats Lord (Paddy) Ashdown, James Gilchrist, one of the UK’s leading tenors, and an exclusive show from Italian classical piano megastar Gloria Campaner who teams up with Polish jazz star Leszek Mozdzer for ‘Two Pianos’. For the full programme visit www.holtfestival.org
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Woodbridge Tide Mill Living Museum rolls into action again in 2018 Woodbridge’s iconic Tide Mill will reopen its doors to the public between 11am and 5pm every day from Good Friday, 30 March, until the beginning of October this year.
Bubble Bonanza in Norwich EACH has announced details of its new fundraising event in Norwich; a Bubble Rush 5k fun run, taking place on 5 May at Earlham Park.
The Mill has a jam-packed schedule of wheel-turning and milling times offering visitors more opportunities to watch the historic water wheel in action and see the millers making flour. The 2018 season sees a number of new initiatives with 40,000 leaflets being distributed throughout the region and promotions such as a 2 for 1 offer with Greater Anglia. The Mill will also be participating in events such as the Beowulf Festival and Maritime Woodbridge. Plan your visit at www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk
The Bubble Rush sees participants head off amongst a sea of bubbles, before passing four bubble stations where cannons pump out coloured foam to create a four-foot (1.2-metre) deep bubble bath. Entries cost £25 per adult and £10 per child. Online registration is now open and closes at 11am on 4 May. Sign up at www.each.org.uk/bubblerush
Enjoy the Colours of Suffolk With its vibrant coastline dotted with fishing boats and wooden huts, pretty pastel villages and its beautiful countryside, Suffolk is alive with colour, and this spectacular has been captured in photographer Mark Staples’ latest book; ‘Colours of Suffolk’. Available this month, the book takes readers on a photographic journey throughout the county. Mark Staples has travelled the length and breadth of Suffolk from his home in Bury St Edmunds to capture over 140 vibrant images depicting scenic coastal views, idyllic country landscapes, historic landmarks and quaint village cottages and churches. The book can be purchased in most Suffolk bookstores and online. More details at www.markstaples.co.uk/colours-of-suffolk
Norfolk Spring Fling The Norfolk Spring Fling will return to the Norfolk Showground with a new look and feel for its 19th year on Tuesday 10 April. www.springfling.rnaa.org.uk
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Boating Lake Tearoom visit our website
highlodge.co.uk see what else we
do
A Unique Venue Situated in 120 acres of woodland and delightful countryside High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities, for all the family to enjoy including relaxing short breaks and good food in our modern cafĂŠ.
Clay Shooting | Weddings | Luxury Lodge Accommodation | Golf The Sunday Carvery | Corporate Events | Celebrations | Footgolf
This Quirky little Tea Room is big on giving you a warm and friendly welcome, with Breakfasts, tempting Lunches, Snacks and the scrumptious Afternoon Cream Teas all served to you by our friendly staff. Our homemade Scones, Soups, Cakes and Sandwiches are all made fresh to order and where and when possible local produce and suppliers are used. We have seating inside for 50 people and far more outside and can cater for Families, Groups, and Private Hire such as Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Mother and Toddler groups and Wakes, small Wedding Parties and Coach Parties. Outside on the Boating Lake Veranda we have Lloyd Loom chairs for your comfort, sit and watch children in the paddleboats, or families having fun on the crazy golf. On the Rear lakeside veranda there is seating overlooking the beautiful lake and Islands, the perfect location for Bird watching or chilling out watching the world go by. To enquire or make a booking call Penny or David 07771781739
Every Sunday 12 -2.30 pm
01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk | info@highlodge.co.uk
Southwold Boating Lake & Tearoom, North Parade, Southwold, Suffolk IP18 6BN www.southwoldboatinglakeandtearoom.co.uk Facebook: SouthwoldBoatingLakeAndCafe Twitter: @boatinglake
Holiday homes for sale and Touring Park The ideal base from which to explore the stunning Suffolk coast and countryside, or just relax and put your feet up.
01728 831655
SUNDAY LUNCH 12PM- 4.30PM NOW OPEN MONDAYS MEAT RAFFLE—FRIDAY 13TH, 9.30PM
www.cakesandale.co.uk
www.aldringhamparrot.com 01728 830221 parrotandpunchbowl@hotmail.com
reception@cakesandale.co.uk
A real country pub with a big heart for food
Secret Suffolk The undiscovered Suffolk Coast Whether it’s hitting the beach, reconnecting with nature or soaking up culture and scenery, the Suffolk Coast has plenty to offer. It has its famous hotspots – Southwold, Aldeburgh and so on – and they’re all well worth a visit, but if you want to avoid the crowds there are many other attractions and perhaps less well-known gems, along this short but beautiful stretch of coastline. We asked the team at Suffolk Hideaways to give away a few of their Suffolk secrets…
Discover Dunwich At one time Dunwich proudly held the title of capital of the East Angles, even rivalling London in size during the 14th Century. The tiny village is the place to go for anyone searching for peace and tranquillity, wildlife and walking. After a day trekking through its scenic beauty stop off at The Ship for delicious fish and chips and a few pints of glorious real ale.
Kessingland Boasting a long history, Kessingland is a large village just south of Lowestoft. The beautiful beach is much less commercial than others you may find; its quiet atmosphere and serene setting also means there’s an abundance of wildlife.
Left to right; Dunwich beach, Aldeburgh - credit TA Collection, Lowestoft beach huts
The lowdown on Lowestoft Suffolk’s most easterly town, a favourite day destination for families from all over the country, and the first place you’ll see the sunrise in the UK. Visit the pretty marina, catch some rays on the beautiful Blue-Flag beach or meander your way along the Victorian promenade to Pakefield, a delightful nearby village where you’ll find clifftop restaurants, charming cafés and wonderful sea views.
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Wonderful Walberswick Walberswick sits at the mouth of the River Blyth, just a mile from Southwold but much, much quieter. Untamed and wild, Walberswick’s beach has a special charm: a jumbled mix of sand and shingle flanked by grassy sand dunes and almost completely surrounded by marsh and heathland.
Thorpeness Half holiday village, half architectural fantasy, Thorpeness boasts a golf course, a chic art deco hotel and restaurant and other attractions, the whole place centred around the Meare – an artificially created boating lake covering three acres. Tiny islands on the Meare contain locations found in J M Barrie’s Peter Pan, such as the Pirate’s Lair, Wendy’s Home and many others – which children are encouraged to play on.
Hop aboard a ferry service Suffolk is a low-lying county, crisscrossed by waterways – and as you might expect, by the time the county’s rivers approach the open sea, the estuaries are often unbridgeably wide. But a number of ‘foot ferry’ services were established in ancient times to help people and goods to get about the place – and four remain in service to this day. The Harwich Foot & Cycle Ferry crosses the Stour and Orwell Estuaries daily between April and October, calling at Shotley and Felixstowe. Running between Felixstowe and Bawdsey Quay, at the mouth of the River Deben, the Bawdsey Ferry operates daily from early May through to the end of September, and weekends only until end-October. Wave the bat at the end of the jetty to call the ferryman!
Above; Kessingland beach. Right; boating lake at Thorpeness
FACT FILE
Butley Ferry: Operates on weekends and Bank Holidays from 11am to 4pm, weather permitting. £2 per passenger and £1.50 per bike, with children under 11 costing £1.50. Walberswick Ferry: 15 April - 26 May weekends only, 26 May - 30 September, open daily. Operates 10am-5pm. Adults £1, children £1, under 5’s free, bikes £1, dogs welcome.
The Ferry at Walberswick, image credit Danny Church & Visit Suffolk www.visitsuffolk.com
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Wild Horses at Minsmere Nature Reserve, Visit Suffolk | www.visitsuffolk.com
Butley Ferry The most venerable of the lot, the Butley Ferry started in the 16th Century, making it one of the oldest ferry services. Steeped in history and atmosphere, the ferry – staffed entirely by oar-wielding volunteers who still wear broad-brimmed farm worker’s hats, just as their forebears did – transports cyclists and walkers over Butley Creek, from Easter Saturday until the last Sunday in October.
Walberswick Ferry For a small charge a traditional rowing boat – based on the Suffolk punt design – can ferry adults, children, dogs, bicycles, buggies and pushchairs across the river Blyth to and from the Walberswick and Southwold banks. The ferry operates on various dates within the popular high summer holiday weeks, as well as during the school holidays of Easter and half-terms.
Suffolk Coast Path Perhaps the best way to experience all or part of what the Suffolk Coast has to offer is on two feet. Stretching from Lowestoft to Felixstowe, the Suffolk Coast Path passes through the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which includes wildlife-rich wetlands, ancient heaths, shingle beaches and historic towns and villages. You can walk through Bawdsey, Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, North Warren, Thorpeness, Minsmere, Dunwich Forest, Southwold and Kessingland. Highlights on the route include the section around Leiston where you will pass the delightful Minsmere Nature Reserve: one of the UK’s premier birdwatching sites. Fancy a romantic break for two or family holiday in Suffolk? Suffolk Hideaways have an ever-growing selection of cottages throughout this glorious county. Find your perfect home away from home at www.suffolkhideaways.co.uk
Images: Top left; Snape Maltings seen through “Family Of Man” statue, Snape Maltings, Suffolk (www.visitsuffolk.com) Left; Food at The Ship at Dunwich | Facebook @shipatdunwich
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Discover Britain’s foremost modern sculptor at Henry Moore Studios & Gardens. Explore Henry Moore’s studios, home and sculptures in over 70 acres of glorious countryside, plus a new exhibition of the artist’s carvings.
30 MARCH - 28 OCTOBER 2018 WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS 11AM-5PM www.henry-moore.org
HENRY MOORE STUDIOS & GARDENS Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE 01279 843333
Registered Charity Number 271370
Minsmere
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Kids go fre e! Getyour yourvoucher voucher at at rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere Get
WildZone Zoneplay play area area • • Wild NatureDiscovery Discovery Centre Centre • • Nature Coastaltrails trails • • Coastal /RSPBSuffolk /RSPBSuffolk
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Woodland Woodland dens dens Family-friendly Family-friendlycafé café Less Less than thanan anhour’s hour’sdrive drive
/RSPBMinsmere /RSPBMinsmere
RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast, IP17 3BY RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast, IP17 3BY Girl image by Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com), dragonfly by Fotolia and ladybird by iStock. RSPB a registered charity in England &dragonfly Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. 851-1289-16-17. GirlThe image by is Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com), by Fotolia and ladybird by iStock. The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. 851-1289-16-17.
THE DOLPHIN INN www.thorpenessdolphin.com 01728 454994
12 Summer Days Out The weather may have been slightly dreary so far this year, but to help put a spring in your step, Liz Mattock, has picked some of the best events to look forward to when the sun finally decides to shine… Bedfordshire Dunstable Downs will leave you only with ups if you visit this summer. Start with an ascent to the highest point in Bedfordshire. You will experience breath-taking landscape and memorable views. Not only that, Dunstable Downs is famous for its strong winds so provides the perfect spot for kite flying and spotting birds of prey. So pack your kite, binoculars and plenty of water if it’s a hot day and set off on your scenic adventure. You can always stop for a bite to eat at The View Café! Grab yourself a deal and book tickets for Only Fools and 3 courses, described as the dinner event of the year at the Bedford Swan Hotel, The Embankment. Marlene and Boycie are hosting a Gala Dinner on 16 June, but will everything run smoothly or will Del, Rodney and Uncle Albert bring their own entertainment to the party? Tickets are on sale now at £45 per person. Book your tickets at www.bedfordswanhotel.co.uk
Cambridgeshire What could be nicer than a cold glass of elegant Chablis or Chardonnay on a hot summer’s day? Why not find out how it tastes so good at the same time as enjoying it with a visit to the Cambridge Wine School on Trumpington Street. The secrets to your favourite Chateaux Nuef du Pape and Malbec will be revealed. Evening tasting sessions start at £25 per person with courses, classes and gift packages from £30, with some including a meal and champagne. www.cambridgeshirewineschool.com The Strawberry Fair in the heart of Cambridge is as sweet as it sounds. A completely free, one day music and entertainment extravaganza, which brings together over 100 musical groups, entertainers and class acts on 2 June. Everyone is welcome, young and old alike and the event is completely free. Details at strawberry-fair.org.uk
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Cromer and Sheringham Crab Festival
Essex With the kids off for two weeks during the Easter holidays you’ll need a few days out in the bag. Make sure one is Adventure Island, Southend-on-sea. Packed with white knuckle rides, including Rage, Dragon’s Claw and Vortex as well as the 21 metre Sky Drop, you might want to try all of these out before lunch. The park is great for younger kids too, they can ride Dumbo, play mini golf and the whole family can enjoy refreshments and snacks from the onsite restaurant. The park is currently offering 25% discount on activity bands if you book in advance online at adventureisland.co.uk. Hold on tight! For a day out that promises shopping in beautiful surroundings, head to Maldon Carnival Summer Fete, Promenade Park. Experience a real community atmosphere with lots to buy, eat, listen to and see. Aimed at families, this is set to be a real feel-good day out. The fete will be held on Saturday 21 July and if you are partial to a spot of running, jogging or walking – you might want to get up extra early and join in the Park Run. www.maldon.gov.uk
Hertfordshire Keep cool amongst the trees of Heartwood Forest, St Albans this summer. There are paths, bridleways and walking routes which weave in and along the edge of the forest or if two wheels or four legs are more your style, you can explore the area by bike or horse. Look out for the community orchard and arboretum on your journey, maintained by the friends of the Woodland Trust and Heartwood Forest heartwood.woodlandtrust.org.uk
Americana Maverick Music Festival
Gather your four-legged friends and head down to Knebworth House to set tails wagging at this year’s DogFest on the 7 and 8 July. Hosted by Supervet star Noel Fitzpatrick and filled with amazing entertainment including dog agility, dog dancing and doggy good behaviour sessions it’s set to get you panting at the prospect. Get first-hand advice from the experts with talks on all aspects of your dog’s life, and there will be pop up stalls selling lots of gifts for your canine friend. Purchase tickets at www.dog-fest.co.uk/hertfordshire
Norfolk Don’t get crabby in the heat this summer, head across to the Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster Festival taking place on 19-20 May. The fun begins on the Friday evening with a grand opening at Cromer Pier and over the weekend locals and visitors alike can celebrate local restaurants, chefs, produce and so much more. Take part in crabbing competitions, live cookery shows and making the perfect crab sandwich. This really is one of the finest ways to experience the beauty and produce of the Norfolk Coast. Full line up at www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk Oh we do like to be beside the seaside! Take a day out to visit Wells-next-the-Sea with its bustling Quay, boat trips, traditional fish and chips and delightful restaurants. Stroll down the coast to the start of Holkham Beach or take the little passenger train, hop off and take a walk out over the sand dunes and then head back into the Quay through the pine woods themselves. Pick up a refreshing cold drink from Wells Deli or pop into one of the ice cream parlours and choose from the many tempting flavours. Plan your day at www.holkham.co.uk
Suffolk Yee-haa! Join in the first ever Americana Maverick Music Festival at Easton Farm Park in Suffolk from 7-8 July. It hosts a fantastic line up of American and English music acts all waiting to bring you a taste of the American dream. Set amongst the Victorian barns and buildings of Easton Farm, visitors can see over 50 artists across six stages, both indoors and out from 5pm on the Friday. The Saturday programme starts at 11am until 11.30pm and on Sunday 10.30am until 2.30pm. So gather your tent, lots of water and a slice of American Pie and book your tickets now to avoid being disappointed Visit maverickfestival.co.uk If it’s not hot enough outside, then why not head inside to Subtropical Swimming Paradise in Elvedon Centre Parcs. This is just one feature of the fantastic kids centred park and with lodges starting at £500 for four nights for two adults and two children under 16 - what a perfect fun-filled way to keep them busy during the school holidays!
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Garden SHOW
The Herts
Sp Bank ring H Week oliday end
SAT/SUN/MON - 5/6/7TH MAY
AT KNEBWORTH HOUSE SPECIALIST GARDEN EXHIBITORS INCLUDING FLORAL & CRAFT MARQUEES - INCLUDES ENTRY TO GARDENS!
Tickets include entry to Gardens, Dinosaur Trail, Park and Adventure Playground £9.50 per person, U3s Free. Family tickets £34.00 Garden Show 9.30am – 5pm. (Last admission 4pm) House admission extra £3.50 adults / £3.00 Senior Citizens & Children. House 12 noon – 5pm (last entry 4pm).
Knebworth
HOUSE, GARDENS, PARK, ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND & DINOSAUR TRAIL Knebworth Park, Nr Stevenage Tel: 01438 812661 Own slip road off, A1(M) J7 SG1 2AX,15 miles from M25 (J23). Ample Parking.
10% discounted tickets available online at:
www.knebworthhouse.com
HATFIELD HOUSE, GARDEN AND PARK IS THE PERFEC T PLACE TO VISIT THIS SPRING.
Visitors can enjoy the state rooms rich in paintings, fine furniture and tapestries along with a picture perfect garden which dates from the early 17th century. Beautifully designed gifts, jewellery, toys and much more can be found in the Stable Yard shops. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing at River Cottage Kitchen & Deli which serves a variety of delicious foods throughout the day.
VISITOR ATTRACTIONS
HOUSE, PARK & GARDENS
STABLE YARD SHOPS & RIVER COTTAGE KITCHEN & DELI
HATFIELD PARK FARM
WWW.HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK | 01707 287010 | VISITORS@HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK
2018 03 East Life Dog Friendly HP.qxp_107mm h x 148 mm w 19/03/2018 15:34 Page 1
Everyone welcome,
even your four-legged friend!
Ufford Park Woodbridge
A warm welcome and fantastic views await you at Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa. Situated in the perfect location to enjoy all that Suffolk has to offer; whether you're looking to explore the county with your family, or enjoy a relaxed weekend away with friends. Everyone welcome, even your four-legged best friend. Take a stroll around our 2 mile perimeter walk, or enjoy one of the many lovely walks around the beautiful Suffolk countryside. Home-cooked and locally sourced food is served all day.
t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road |Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
Luxury Self-catering Accommodation in eight Converted Barns on a working Arable and Dairy Farm. We are situated in the beautiful peaceful rural Waveney Valley adjoining the southern tip of the Norfolk Broads. Many fantastic sandy beaches and attractions can be found a short distance from Wheatacre Hall Barns making this a great place to base your visit in your discovery of Norfolk and Suffolk. Facilities include, Games Barn, Fitness Barn, Soft Play Barn and Hot Tub and plenty of outdoor space for fun and games.
Contact Joanna Burroughs on 01502 677208 Wheatacre Hall Barns, Wheatacre, Beccles, NR34 0AS www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk
A stunning setting offering the finest food and drink with impeccable hospitality. From Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch to Private Dining, whatever the occasion we’ll make it special.
Telephone 01284 735350 Visit www.ickworthhotel.co.uk Email info@ickworthhotel.co.uk Horringer, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5QE
Staycation in the East
Written by Shelley Beth ShelleyBeth.com
W
hether you want to soak up some culture, step back in time or escape from it all this summer, a staycation in the East is what you need! Soak up some culture in Norwich The possibilities are endless in this medieval UNESCO City of Literature. Lose an afternoon wandering around the historic lanes and spend the evening with the locals in one of the many pubs. Uncover the history of the city in The Bridewell Museum or The Castle. For something different take a wander along the river or hire a kayak and go for a paddle. Stay: St Giles House Hotel - a gorgeous boutique art deco hotel in the heart of the city (stgileshousehotel.com).
Step back in time in… The Suffolk Wool Towns Grand churches and timber frame houses line the streets of medieval Bury St Edmunds, Lavenham, Long Melford and Sudbury. Bury St Edmunds has an impressive abbey and plenty of cobbled streets to explore. Marvel at The Guildhall in Lavenham before passing by Harry Potter’s house. On a sunny day the walk from Lavenham to Long Melford is wonderful. Art lovers can follow in Thomas Gainsborough’s footsteps in his home town of Sudbury. Stay: The Swan at Lavenham (theswanatlavenham.co.uk) or The Angel Hotel in Bury (www.theangel.co.uk).
Colchester Britain’s oldest town has a two thousand year old history to explore. Head back to Roman times with a self guided walking tour of the city; make sure you visit the Temple of Claudius and the Roman Circus Centre. A stroll around the Dutch Quarter and stops at St Boltolphs Priory and Layer Marney Tower will transport you through the Medieval and Tudor periods and beyond. Plan your trip at www.visitcolchester.com Stay: In the Georgian Grey Friars Hotel in the heart of the cultural quarter (greyfriarscolchester.co.uk).
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Bruisyard Hall THE ULTIMATE SUFFOLK COUNTRY SIDE WEDDING VENUE
Enjoy the perfect celebration with exclusive use Whether you’re planning a small wedding of your nearest and dearest, an intimate vow renewal ceremony or a big wedding with all the bells and whistles, we have everything you need for a beautiful countryside wedding in Suffolk. With a choice of places to marry, dine and dance, we have a beautiful and unique wedding venue supported by a family-led team keen to ensure every aspect of your wedding day is perfect.
Bruisyard, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 2EJ info@bruisyardhall.com | Tel: 01728 639 000
www.bruisyardhall.com
This month sees the start of the 8th Broads Outdoors Festival. Spanning over three weeks from 28 April to 13 May, it celebrates the Broads with a variety of events. If you fancy getting creative there’s plenty of arts and crafts to keep you entertained while those who prefer to be active can discover the very best of the Broads through a number of participant activities. There’s also something for those who just want to kick back and relax. Visit www.visitthebroads.co.uk/outdoors-festival for more details.
Enjoy some good old fashioned family fun in Sheringham The golden sands of Sheringham Beach are home to colourful beach huts and a long promenade, which leads to the Sheringham Museum. The bunting lined high street is dotted with independent stores and hidden arcades to explore. Hop on the North Norfolk Railway (www.nnrailway.co.uk) and take a steam train to Holt. Beeston Bump and Sheringham Park both boast stunning countryside views. On 14 and 15 September, this traditional seaside town hosts their popular 1940s weekend. Stay: Rent your own family cottage (www.sheringham cottages.com) or head inland and camp at Breck Farm in Weybourne (breckfarm.co.uk).
Escape from it all on the Norfolk Broads Rent a boat and cruise around the Norfolk countryside. Uncover the history of this man made national park at the Museum of the Broads, climb up Ranworth church tower for spectacular views or step back to Victorian Britain in the stunning Somerleyton Hall. If you tire of boat life, hop off and explore one of the many nature trails or swap a day on the boat for one on a Steam Train on the Bure Valley Railway (ww.bvrw.co.uk).
Stay: Find out more about boating holidays at www.broads.co.uk or book a break at Broads Escapes; a new holiday cottage company offering a range of luxury cottages featuring home-from-home comforts situated in Potter Heigham.
Art lover’s escape to Ipswich Art lovers are in for a treat at this waterside town. Ipswich is home to the largest collection of Constable’s work outside of London. Head to Christchurch Mansion to view his paintings before exploring the Dedham Vale, the area of outstanding natural beauty that inspired him. You can explore on foot, with a guided boat tour or on a cycling break. Stay: On the Marina in Ipswich in the Salthouse Harbour Hotel (www.salthouseharbour.co.uk).
The crowd-pleasing family break in Hertfordshire Nature lovers will adore spotting rare butterflies on the Ashridge Estate. History buffs will enjoy the Natural History Museum in Tring while Potterheads should explore the Warner Brothers Studio Tour. If you have any energy left there’s Whipsnade Zoo to discover too! Stay: The Grove is a family friendly hotel close to all of the attractions and has on-site activities. There’s even a babysitting service so the adults can escape to the Sequoia Spa for a few hours! (www.thegrove.co.uk)
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Your holiday begins here ……….
Relax & Recuperate with ………. Discover the beauty of the Norfolk Broads in one of our idyllic riverside self catering cottages and dayboats. Pets and families welcome. www.riverside-rentals.co.uk
01493 368300
Sutton Pottery Kitchenware & Tableware
Stoneware Pottery – Ideal Gifts “Throwing” Tuition – Gift Vouchers
HUNTER’S YARD
Sailing on the Norfolk Broads 2 hour skippered sails
Only £74 for up to 4 people
Cabin Yacht Hire RYA Sailing Tuition
Levels 1, 2, 3 & Seamanship courses
Half-Decker (day boat) Hire Learn to Sail Holidays
Tel: 01692 678263 www.huntersyard.co.uk TheHorsefen Norfolk Heritage Fleet Trust – Charity 1052303 Road, Ludham, NR29No: 5QG
Church Road Sutton, Norwich NR12 9SG 01692 580595 | www.suttonpottery.com
side! The Norfolk School of Wilderness Bushcraft coursts designed to allow you to experience natu" and explore
the forgotten art of Bushcraft,
tracing back to our indigenous ancestors and learning skills from around the world.
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Come to the
THE SWAN MOTEL THE SWAN MOTEL, A MOTEL, RESTAURANT AND PUBLIC HOUSE SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF GILLINGHAM ON THE NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK BORDER JUST OUTSIDE THE MARKET TOWN OF BECCLES.
Cat Pottery 1 Grammar School Road, North Walsham NR28 9JH
Fine Restaurant And Sunday Lunch We have 2 restaurants for you to dine in. We offer food from the main menu but we also have daily specials and bar food. We also have a carvery which is available on Sundays
The Bar Area At The Swan Friendly Staff, plenty of drinks and good company at The Gillingham Swan
And see me being made. Magnificent Rooms To Complete Your Stay We have 14 fully refurbished rooms for you to choose from including our DoubleDeluxe-Ensuite-Honeymoon Suite
Loddon Road, Gillingham, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 0LD | 01502 470005
Also collection of Railwayana and other curiosities. Open: 9-5 Mon-Fri & 11-1 Saturday No entrance fee
Dog friendly
Tails about town Written by Emma Kemsley
Is this the most dog friendly cottage in Norfolk? Thirty seconds. That’s all it took for Fletcher to run along the path at Blakeney Quay and jump into the water in sub-zero temperatures. He was closely followed by his doggy girlfriend Juno, who if you remember from our trip to DogFest last year, can’t actually swim! Of course chaos followed as she bobbed up and down and had to be rescued by her owners while Fletcher was taken back to the car to dry off much to his disappointment.
FACT FILE
Gardeners Cottage, sleeps 12 people in 5 bedrooms and allows up to three dogs. Price from from £1,095 for a weekend in low season and up to £3,095 for a full week in peak season. Facebook @blakeneycottage | Instagram @gardenerscottage www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk www.blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk/cottage/gardeners-cottage The Blakeney Cottage Company is a family run business specialising in holiday properties situated in North Norfolk. With
The reason for our Norfolk escapades was a weekend stay at the beautiful Gardeners Cottage in Blakeney. We often like to travel at weekends with our friends, along with our pet dogs, but finding accommodation that is happy to allow more than one dog is difficult, add to that my demands for a fireplace, stylish interiors and close proximity to a pub and good walks, and it becomes near on impossible. So when I stumbled across Gardeners Cottage and saw that it had all the features on my list and accommodated up to three dogs, I couldn’t believe my eyes! Was it too good to be true? Had I actually done it and found our ideal getaway? Well I’m here to tell you that if you’re thinking of booking a mini break in Norfolk, I have just saved you precious hours of scrolling through Google searches for the perfect dog-friendly property in Norfolk – you can thank me later! Available to rent via the Blakeney Cottage Company, which may I add have lots of gorgeous dog-friendly properties in North Norfolk in their portfolio, Gardeners Cottage is nestled off the high street, set back on Coronation Lane and just a short walk from all the best parts of Blakeney. Within five minutes of the property you can reach the Quay for dog walks along the stunning salt marshes,
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a portfolio of over 140 properties, they have something for everyone. Many of their cottages are dog-friendly too! Houses can be booked for weekend getaways, midweek breaks and full week holidays and their friendly team are on hand to help you pick the perfect escape. Tel: 01263741777 | www.blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk
visit the Blakeney Delicatessen for freshly made cakes and pastries and stop by one of the friendly local pubs. We particularly liked the King’s Arms where the pooches were treated to dog biscuits while we warmed up by the fire with a glass of red after a long walk – their takeaway fish & chips were pretty good too! Gardeners Cottage ticks all the boxes for a stylish Norfolk break. Not only is it probably one of the most dog friendly cottages around but also the most photogenic - an interior bloggers and Instagrammers dream! It features five cosy bedrooms, chic interiors, a wood burner, an AGA cooker, a huge and well-equipped kitchen and roll top baths. In total six of us stayed along with three dogs and there was more than enough space. While us humans made the most of the spacious kitchen enjoying dinner (thank god my friend knew how to work an AGA, I would have starved if it had been left to me), board games and cheeseboards around the table, the dogs, Fletcher (a cocker spaniel), Juno (a staffy cross) and Chewy (a chocolate Labrador) made the most of the very secure garden – another rare commodity
It became a battle of the breeds as we wondered which dog would tire and give their paws in first to the Arctic conditions. I’m sure you can guess that Fletcher wasn’t going to let the cold stop him. He even went for a swim – again!
in dog-friendly properties! These are three of the most hyper dogs I’ve ever come across, and they surprised me at how well behaved they were - despite the one occassion where a love triangle ensued and Juno and Chewy got stuck under a coffee table while Fletcher ran laps around them! I had envisioned beautiful spring walks along the beach during our visit in March, but the ‘Beast from the East ’ returned and made dog walking challenging. We were those kinds of people you see on the news during adverse weather conditions and you think: “who would be foolish enough to go out in this?” Well when you have three dogs with endless energy, the answer would be us! Six very cold dog owners, crying with laughter and genuine tears at the Siberian weather front we were facing. The sand swirled around at Wells-next-theSea and we had grit in our eyes before we’d even made it down the wooden steps to the beach. Thankfully the footpath, which runs through the pine forest, offered some shelter and an extremely cold but enjoyable walk.
Later that day, as Fletcher and Juno got restless for another walk, my friend and I pulled on our layers to brave another ice blast. Within two minutes we were blown off the path at Blakeney Quay and among fits of laughter while we held onto each other, we pushed our way against the gales over the marshes while the dogs remained oblivious to the wind – why don’t humans have that ability? The weather showed no signs of letting up and Sunday we braved Salthouse Beach. We scrambled across the pebbled beach as a -6 wind whipped across our face. We may have screamed and cried but the pooches had a great time chasing balls and sticks as their ears and tails flapped in the air! The afternoon was finished by a browse around the shops in Cley next the Sea and trip to the pub before returning back to the cottage to thaw out in front of the fire and indulge in a roast. This trip proved that no matter the weather Norfolk is a great destination for dog-owners year round. It also left me feeling quite proud that despite the Baltic conditions, I ensured Fletcher got the daily exercise he needs - I think I deserve some kind of dog owner medal! It also made me realise that as long as he is happy, then there will always be a smile on my face – even if on this occasion it was frozen!
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Sheringham Cottages 1-4 Jan18.qxp_1/4 PORTRAIT GRID 11/12/2017 16:34 Page 1
Supported by and raising proceeds for
Relax on the North Norfolk Coast
£5 per adult entry Children & Dogs FREE!
Local family run business
• Beautiful scenery within a private Estate • A range of different routes to explore • Stalls & refreshments • Dog Agility Course
Six delightful 4 star / families welcome graded holiday properties sleeping from 2 to 15 in Sheringham Foresters, Augusta & Madge are all rated suitable for wheelchair users by Visit England, as well as being great for families Superb quiet location. Blue flag beach, shops, family pubs, theatre and 18-hole golf course all within 200 metres
(Not suitable for wheelchairs)
Sunday 20th May
10am-3pm
Gates open between 10.30am to 12pm
Tel. 01986 892728
Find us on Facebook
Beaters Retreat, Hall Farm, Belsey Bridge Road, Ditchingham, Norfolk NR35 2JX
Free use of local leisure centre, inc. swim and gym, Sky TV, sports and movies, Wi-fi, gardens and off road parking Free pick up from Sheringham train & bus station Call: 01263 577 560 Web: www.sheringhamcottages.com Email: enquiries@sheringhamcottages.com
6/7/8 JULY 2018 Incorporating the East of England
CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW WITH
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WWW.JUSTDOGSLIVE.CO.UK JDL 2018 148wx107h Advert v.1.indd 1
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Discover the history of King’s Lynn Tour the old gaol cells, see the magnificent King John cup, and more! Fascinating for all ages. Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 5DQ Open Daily | 01553 774297 www.storiesoflynn.com App available now
Top 10 dog-friendly
Events
Written by Abby Knight
T
o celebrate National Pet Month (1 April – 7 May), we’ve rounded up 10 of our favourite things you can do with your family pet this summer…
GREAT BRITISH DOG WALK Where and when: Ickworth Park, Suffolk, 5 May. The perfect day out whether you have a dog or not, this fun event organised by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People has a 3k or 8k walk you can join in around the beautiful grounds of Ickworth Park, plus lots of fun things to do including a dog agility course, craft stalls and BBQ. Visit hearingdogs.org.uk or call 01844 348100 for details and a sponsor form.
ALL ABOUT DOGS Where and when: Brentwood Centre, Brentwood Essex, 6-7 May One of the fastest growing festivals for all things canine! As well as being able to see some of the world’s most interesting breeds, there are agility and racecourses, stalls, clubs and rescue charities on hand to answer questions and a showing event. Visit allaboutdogs.co.uk for details or call 01702 549623 to book tickets. ROSE MAY FETE & FUN DOG SHOW Where and when: Ringsfield Village Hall, Beccles, Suffolk, 7 May Ideal family day out for families and their furry friends, activities include fun dog show, arena show, craft stalls and BBQ. Visit thegooddogguide.co.uk. for details.
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HUNSTANTON FUN DOG SHOW Where and when: Glebe House School, Hunstanton, Norfolk, 12 May As well as fly ball display you can watch dogs dancing, fun daschund racing and enter your dog into the dog show with plenty of prizes. Stalls and refreshments available all day. Visit hunstanton-info.com or call 01485 534481 for details and entry forms.
DOG FEST Where and when: Knebworth House, Hertfordshire, 7-8 July One of the fastest growing national events this one takes place in the pretty grounds of Knebworth House. Events include a fun Canine Carnival, an activity ring, Dogs with Jobs and competitions. Visit dog-fest.co.uk or call 01483 791770 for details.
PAWS IN THE PARK Where and when: Newton Park, Bury St Edmonds, Suffolk, 20 May This popular event organised by St Nicholas Hospice in partnership with Swayne Partners Vets is a great place to see some of the county’s finest dog display teams and to show your pet in a fun competition which includes Best Dressed Royal Wedding Guest! Visit stnicholashospicecare.org.uk or call 01284 715580 for details.
JIMMY’S FESTIVAL 2018 Where and where: Jimmy’s Farm, Wherstead near Ipswich, Suffolk, 21-22 July The perfect way to spend a high summer weekend, there’s a brilliant line up of music including Happy Mondays. There’s some fabulous food and drink stalls plus lots more fun at the two-day festival set in Jimmy’s Farm location. Families and their doggy companions all welcome. For details and to book tickets, visit jimmysfestival.co.uk
FESTIVAL OF DOGS Where and when: Stradsett Hall, Norfolk, 3-4 June Dogs and families will love all the fun events that take place in this nationally organised show including fancy dress competition, agility and arenas shows, farmers market, plus refreshments and walks around the grounds. Visit festivalofdogs.co.uk or call 01728 685307 for details.
CANVEY ISLAND THORNEY BAY Where and when: Canvey Island, Essex. March to September Pick a good sunny day and head for picturesque Thorney Bay on Canvey Island, Essex. As well as a long sandy beach the RSPB has a sanctuary on the beach where you can spot many coastal birds including Lapwing and Redshank and there’s no restrictions for dogs. Visit goodbeachguide.co.uk for details and for other dog-friendly beaches.
JUST DOGS LIVE Where and when: East of England Showground, Peterborough, 6-8 July Bring your pet to one of the best dog events in the UK, with plenty of room to explore, you can find tips on training, dog body language and grooming plus join in some fun agility and race events on the day. Visit eastofenglandarena.com or call 01733 363500 for details and sponsor forms.
Love dogs? Discover events, walks, accommodation and more on our new dog-friendly Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/dogfriendlydoglife
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L UA S S W NN EE LD NE D A IP F R O CE RSH EA DU BE 6 Y RE EM - 2 M 18 R FO
MEMBERSHIP OFFER
CAMBRIDGE PARK & RIDE
EASTER
RE FO ME DU N R M CE EW 18 BE D - 2 RS AN 6 Y HI N EA P F UA R EE L 29th MARCH - OLD S 15th APRIL 2018 S
TRAIL MEMBERSHIP OFFER Join in February or March and receive MEMBERSHIP OFFER 15 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP 15 months membership for the price of 12 Join in April and receive
RE FO ME DU N R M CE EW 18 BE D - 2 RS AN 6 Y HI N EA P F UA R EES L OL DS
Join in February or March FOR THE PRICE OFand 12receive 15 months membership for the price of 12
NO JOINING FEES
NO JOINING FEES
Membership Benefits: • Access to an 18 Hole Championship Golf Course Membership Benefits: • Use of Par 3 Academy course The Cambridge Park & Ride Easter Trail from 29th March • Access to an 18 Hole Championship Golf Course • Meet and play with friendly members until 15th April 2018 • Use of Par 3 Academy course • High quality coaching available from PGA Professionals • Meet and play with friendly members • Relaxed clubhouse with bar and dining facilities Pick up your trail sheet from any Park & Ride site or • High quality coaching available from PGA Professionals • Play in club competitions and maintain a handicap onboard Park & Ride Buses • Relaxed clubhouse with bar and dining facilities • Driving range and short game area • Play in club competitions and maintain a handicap • Free use of 32 courses on the Smartgolf Network Collect our 3 letters and find our mystery word • Driving range and short game area • Optional on site Leisure facilities and swimming pool • Free use of 32 courses on the Smartgolf Network • Clubhouse social nights Win a £250 spending spree in Cambridge • Optional on site Leisure facilities and swimming pool including quizzes and • Clubhouse social nights race nights including quizzes and Free Chocolate Bunny for all race nights T&C’s- Pay upfront in full to get the 15 for 12. Offer cannot used if they were member of Bourn within the previous 2 years
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
T&C’s- Pay upfront in full to get the 15 for 12. Offer cannot used if they were member of Bourn within the previous 2 years
More: www.parkandrideeastertrail.co.uk
Toft Road, Cambridge CB23 2TT
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
01954 718057
Bourn Golf and Leisure, Toft road, Bourn, CB23 2TT
Bourn Golf and Leisure, Toft road, Bourn, CB23 2TT email: info@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk info@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk www.bourngolfandleisure.co.uk
Working in partnership email: info@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk
MUM’s
The Word
Little East
Written by Dolly Osborne
Easter is Everywhere!
As every Easter comes around I find myself almost biting through my tongue as I hear the same arguments wheeled out year after year. “Oh Easter eggs are in shops earlier and earlier aren’t they?” No, actually it’s the same time every year *bites lip and grimaces*. “I swear Creme Eggs are smaller.” No, we got bigger. They literally still use the same mould *goes a bit red and exhales quickly but still just kinda grimace-smiles*. “Oh they are trying to erase Christianity as they refuse to use the word Easter.” No, no they aren’t. The word Easter is everywhere, EVERYWHERE, it first appeared just after Christmas along with the eggs that appear at that time every year! *tongue is bitten right through and I’m crying in pain whilst still trying to smile politely and not argue*. This year though, this year I’ve been hearing a new thing (I know it’s a ‘thing’ as I’ve heard it from separate sources) and I’m not going to stay quiet as this thing is more ridiculous than all of the other Easter related nonsense put together: “Do the kids want eggs or money?” WHAT?! Eggs or money? Eggs. Obviously. It’s Easter. I mean I know we are living in a capitalist society where my stepdaughter’s trainers cost more than my annual shoe
allowance but surely there isn’t anything to give at Easter other than things related to, well, Easter. Easter is a Spring festival. Even if you make the argument that society is moving away from Christianity and don’t view Easter as anything to do with The Passion (and I mean that Biblically, it’s not some weird 50 shades reference), then you must at least accept that it is a celebration of Spring. New life popping up everywhere you look. Little fluffy chicks stumbling after their mum’s, lambs gambolling around the fields, colourful flowers pushing through the ground rejoicing that winter is over. You celebrate Spring with images of new life: eggs and bunnies and chicks and daffodils, not 5s, 10s and 20s. I just won’t hear of it. So if you do happen to cross my path I’ll tolerate you peddling any of the age old Easter arguments (just about) but if you go after Easter eggs I’ll bite your head off with wild abandon just as if you were a delicious bell wearing chocolate bunny. Be warned.
Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus
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Roarr-ing Good Times at Dinosaur Adventure
Written by Nicole Ranaweera
W
hen your youngest daughter loves dinosaurs so much that her knowledge quite possibly rivals that of a palaeontologist, how can you not take a trip to Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure in Norfolk? Excited beyond belief, we set off on a cold February day (the Sunday in fact before the ‘Beast from The East’ arrived), and soon found the cold to be the least of our worries as our daughter had us running from life-sized dinosaurs as her imagination soared!
A sucker for collecting stamps, my daughter was keen to get started on the activity sheets we were given at the admission desk. The stamp trail is a great way of seeing the park as it takes you around a lot of the attractions. After finding the last stamp in the Lost World A-Mazing Adventure, we decided to warm up with some lunch. A few weather-hardy families were braving the cold in the many picnic areas, but wanting to experience all that Dinosaur Adventure had to offer, we headed over to their new restaurant, The Explorers. With roughly half the menu suitable for vegetarians, we were pleasantly surprised at the choice. Service was speedy and friendly. Bellies full and feeling much warmer, we headed outdoors once more. On the way to the Jurassic Putt Crazy Golf we had a quick nosy at Predator High Ropes – the new attraction due to open soon. Whilst it was still being built at the time of our visit, it looks like it will be a great addition for older children.
We saved Dinomite, the indoor play area, for last. It was a nice way to end our day as whilst we enjoyed a coffee and a chat, our daughter slid down slides, climbed, jumped and ran off any remaining energy she had! The Dinosaur Trail and Neanderthal walk were definitely highlights for my daughter as she loved the life-sized dinos, but what really caught her eye was the animatronic T-Rex. Enthralled by him from the moment we entered the park, I did feel slightly concerned that we might not see anything else! Dinosaur Adventure really deserves the Norfolk & Suffolk Tourism Award of Best Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2018 – there’s so much for the children to do and attractions are very well thought out - we’re already planning a return visit very soon… Roarr! Dinoasaur Adventure, Lenwade, Norwich, NR9 5JE Tel: 01603 876310 | www.roarrdinosauradventure.co.uk
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Nurturing talent, enabling success www.southlee.co.uk
OPEN MORNING
Friday 18 May 2018 | 10am-12noon
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
South Lee School
Educating children from nursery to 13 years
T: 01284 754654 E: office@southlee.co.uk
St Mary's ad Eastlife April 2018 107mm h x 148mm w_Layout 1 20/03/2018 14:45 Page 1
Happy girls are high achievers.
Come along to our Senior School Open Day Saturday 21 April, 10.00-12.00
St Mary’s Colchester
For more information, please contact our Registrar on 01206 216420 or registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk
Education
Open Days It’s the last of the school open days. Find the right choice for your child with a visit to some of the region’s finest schools…. Colchester Royal Grammar School 6 Lexden Rd, Colchester CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 Open day: 11+ open evening, 26 June, 6.20pm-9pm CRGS is an 11-18 state selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and has a co-educational Sixth Form. www.crgs.co.uk New Hall School The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford CM3 3HS Tel: 01245 467588 Open day: 5 May, 9am – 12noon A vibrant and forward-thinking school for boys and girls aged from 3 to 11 and Sixth Form. www.newhallschool.co.uk St Mary’s School for Girls 91 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 Open days: Senior School Open Day, Saturday 21 April, 10am-12pm A high achieving independent school for girls aged 3-16 with a focus on building confidence and academic achievement. www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk Brentwood School Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood CM15 8EE Tel: 01277 243243 Open day: 9 June, arrival times: 9.30am or 10.30am, Talk times: 10.30am & 11.30am. An independent day and boarding school in Essex for boys and girls aged 3 to 18. www.brentwoodschool.co.uk
Bedford Girl’s School Cardington Road, Bedford, MK42 0BX Tel: 01234 361900 Open day: 3 May, 10am A vibrant independent day school for girls aged 7-18. www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Howe Green House School Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 7UF Tel: 01279 657706 Open day: Nursery and prep, 18 April, 9.30am-11.30am The school offers education for children with the opportunities to achieve their academic potential within a family environment where they feel valued, fulfilled, confident and emotionally literate. www.howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk Northampton High School Hardingstone, Northampton NN4 6UU Tel: 01604 765765 Open days: Early Years Family Fun Day 21 April, Junior Art and Design Open Day, 24 April and Whole School Open Day on 11 May. An independent day school for girls aged from 3 - 18 years. www.northamptonhigh.co.uk South Lee School Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 2BT Tel: 01284 754654 Open Morning: 18 May, 10am-12noon Independent Day School & Nursery for boys and girls aged 2 to 13, offering a stimulating and caring environment for your child. www.southlee.co.uk
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An independent day and boarding school in Essex for boys and girls aged 3-18 Generous Scholarships and Bursaries from 11+ Come to our Open Morning Saturday 9th June 2018 Register online now www.brentwoodschool.co.uk
A Catholic independent ‘diamond model’ school, City of Chelmsford
Day (3-18 years) • Boarding (7-18 years) Pre-Prep Division • Preparatory Division • Girls’ Division • Boys’ Division • Sixth Form
Open Morning: Saturday 5 May 2018 Independent School of the Year The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford, CM3 3HS registrar@newhallschool.co.uk www.newhallschool.co.uk
Open Events Early Years Fun Morning Saturday 21 April 10am-12noon Junior School Art and Design Taster Day Tuesday 24 April 9am-3.30pm Whole School Open Morning Friday 11 May 8am-12noon
We believe in our girls. And they believe in themselves. Visit us to see what we mean northamptonhigh.gdst.net 01604 765765
I believe in keeping an open mind Open Morning Thursday 3rd May, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust
Creating opportunities… realising potential… living life to the full! We are an independent co-educational day school and nursery for 2–11 year olds Call us today on 01279 657706 or visit www.howegreenhouseschool.co.uk
Open Morning
Wednesday 18th April 2018 9.30am – 11.30 am
Howe Green House School, Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM22 7UF
Enjoy 20% Family Discount Weds - Fri 5pm - 7pm
Restaurant • Light Lunch • Café • Live Music Opening hours: Weds - Sat 11am til 10pm | Tues & Sunday 11am - 5pm The Higgins Pantry, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD www.thehigginspantry.co.uk
email: eat@thehigginspantry.co.uk
Tel: 01234 276340
TheHigginsPantry
@the_pantry
T&C’s - valid Wednesdays to Fridays for tables sitting between 5pm and 7pm. Quote “EastLife” when booking and prior to ordering.
&
Food & Drink
Food Drink news Raymond Blanc’s new Cambridge restaurant
The Boot in Histon, Cambridge, has reopened under celebrity chef Raymond Blanc’s, The White Brasserie Company. After almost a nine month closure, the village pub has been given a full refurbishment, enhancing period features such as the original brick arch and inglenook fireplace. There’s a rustic yet charming feel throughout making it a cosy place to visit with friends and family, and even your pet dog, for dinner or a drink. The menu includes British seasonal dishes, influenced by French brasserie favourites. Mains highlights include a selection of 30-day dry-aged steaks and slow-cooked roast suckling pig, while pescetarians and vegetarians can tuck into dishes such as Loch Fyne salmon and crab fishcakes or black truffle and wild mushroom risotto.
Cocktails on Chelmsford’s Riverside Last month The Liquorist opened its doors on Springfield Road, Chelmsford following a £375,000 makeover. Combining cocktails, live music and artisan pizza the venue, which has created 50 local jobs, hopes to bring more life to the town’s bar and food scene with its extensive range of cocktails and exciting mix of entertainment.
Catch of the month!
Sunday roasts served with bottomless gravy and roast potatoes are sure to be a hit, and with two terraces we see this becoming a summer hotspot for Cambridge residents! Read our review of The Boot at Histon online at www.eastlife.co.uk | www.boothiston.com
There will also be regular rum tasting nights and master classes and a Rum Roulette wheel, which will help customers spin a selection of rums and mixers to create a bespoke drink at random. The bar will be a party hub on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights with music and a latenight DJ. Food will be served daily from 11am-9pm. www.theliquoristchelmsford.co.uk
The best beers in East Anglia A draught porter beer named Slate, brewed by the Grain brewery at Alburgh in south Norfolk, has been named the overall gold Champion Beer of East Anglia 2018 by CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale.
The Brudenell in Aldeburgh has introduced a seafood calendar, with menus changing on a monthly basis to include the best seasonal fish. Visit in April for sea bass, or May for John Dory. Lovers of shellfish should visit during summer months when prawn, crab and lobster will be on the menu. September is all about oysters! www.brudenellhotel.co.uk
The silver award goes to Colchester Brewery for its speciality Brazilian Coffee & Vanilla Porter. Green Jack of Lowestoft scooped bronze for its Ripper Tripel draught barley wine, the recent winner of CAMRA’s national overall Champion Winter Beer of Britain, which was judged at the CAMRA Great British Beer Festival Winter in Norwich last month. These winners will now go forward for consideration in the next national round of CAMRA competition. The award comes following a year of blind judging at CAMRA beer festivals around East Anglia. It includes 10 categories covering different styles of real ale, including milds, bitters, golden ales, speciality beers, old ales, stouts, porters and barley wines.
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Cambridge The
Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour, (www.cambridgefoodtour.com) shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…
Foodie
Just in case you missed it... There is so much happening on the local food scene, that it is easy to miss the newcomers and changes. Even for a professional foodie like me! The tapas boom has finally hit Cambridge too. It has taken a bit of time, but finally after the uprise of tapas restaurants in London in 2013, it has reached Cambridge. My prayers have been heard as I am a big fan of tapas. It is merely a coincidence, that two businesses decided to open their doors in Cambridge without knowing the other was going to do the same. Lucky us! WHERE TO GET TAPAS? The Emperor on Hills Road An old-time favourite, this pub has been selling Brazilianstyle tapas for quite a few years. Que Rico Tapas The Spanish private chef, Estefania, runs tapas and wine tastings at Cambridge Wine Merchants in Cherry Hinton and every first Sunday of the month a very popular tapas and wine pairing for lunch. Booking essential! Tabanco The owners of Butchannies, Tim and Nigel, have opened a tapas restaurant in Green Street, which is already very popular amongst foodie Cambridge. They are not new to the tapas scene as they have quite a few successful tapas restaurants in London. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tu Casa Tapas Restaurant At the time of writing this article, they weren’t open yet. Two Spanish entrepreneurs, who have worked in the Cambridge food scene for quite a while decided to take the jump and open a tapas restaurant on Mill Road. I have had a quick pre-view and it has the look and feel of a Spanish tapas bar. Set to open end of March. WHAT’S NEW IN CAMBRIDGE? Midsummer House Daniel Clifford is following many British Chefs in their food steps ditching the tasting menu from April as he thinks it is bad for chefs and for the diners. It will be
Tabanco on Greeen Street
replaced by à la carte. He believes customers want to have a choice and don’t want to be made to have a tasting menu. It is also a great opportunity for his chefs to expand their range as they don’t have to make the same food over and over again. The Ivy Cambridge You might have noticed, that Jaeger closed some time ago. Just as with many retail shops as more people shop online, this shop has been converted into a restaurant too. The Ivy opened their doors on 14 March. It offers all-day menus, a beautiful bar, the brasserie, which will offer sophisticated yet relaxed dining and afternoon teas. Stuart Conibear, the head chef, worked in Michelinstarred hotels as a head chef and an executive head chef role at Downing College and an appointment as Personal Chef to Prince Charles at Clarence House. Novi Cambridge Oh, I love a good cocktail! Our friends at Novi Cambridge have launched a new Cocktail menu. My favourite? The white Negroni!
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A taste of the Countryside
Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com
Tuck in at one of these great foodie events
W
ith some of the best locally produced food and drink products in the country and a host of great chefs and restaurants, there are unsurprisingly plenty of foodie events coming up over the next few months in the region. Here we’ve rounded up a few of our favourites: The Birds of Prey centre in Bedfordshire will be hosting their Food & Garden Festival on 21-22 April to celebrate the best of seasonal spring produce. As well as plenty for the avid gardener and ferocious foodie, this year sees the arrival of a craft fair for the first time, showcasing plenty of gifts and treats. Why not pop into the Birds of Prey centre and activity farm at the same time? Find out more at www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk Ely is preparing itself once again for its four day extravaganza to celebrate the origins of the humble eel. Organised by the Visit Ely team, Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend runs from 4 to 7 May. This year, as always, sees the return of the Eel Food Safari which runs all weekend where a selection of local food outlets provide special dishes inspired by the eel theme. The Eel Parade kicks off Saturday’s Eel Day with a colourful array of eels parading through Ely’s High Street, down to the river where a whole host of eel related activities take place. Special highlights include the British Town Criers’ Championships and the World Eel (toy) Throwing Competition. Rounding up the weekend is the ever popular two day Food and Drink Festival now in its fifth year. Over 75 artisan and specialist food and drink traders will be
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showcasing their wares. There’s a great Street Food Scene, plus beer tent and cocktail bar with some easy listening, live music to enjoy. Back on St Mary’s Green is the Kitchen Pantry with a selection of goodies to help stock your pantry and this year’s Cookery Theatre will host celebrity haute cuisine teacher, Rosemary Shrager and the original TV Chef, Brian Turner who will be demonstrating a variety of dishes alongside some of our much loved local chefs. For the full Ely Eel Festival programme check out www.elyeelfestival.co.uk The World Food Festival, a celebration of cuisine from around the world, kicks off on Saturday 12 May in Welwyn Garden City. There’ll be plenty of food to try and buy as well as a cookery demonstration stage and live entertainment for the whole family. Find out more at www.welwyngarden.co.uk Chelmsford City Racecourse will be playing host to the Essex Fine Food Show on 12 and 13 May. Featuring James Martin and John Torode cooking live, this is a real one for the foodies out there. There will also be some demonstrations from top local chefs including Mick Binnington from The Windmill in Chatham Green, Adam Townsend from The New London in Chelmsford and local master butcher, David Innes. As always, there’ll also be plenty of food to try and buy and of course, live entertainment too. Find out more at: www.2018essexfinefoodshow.apteventspro.co.uk The annual Eat Cambridge Festival returns on 19 May with a huge foodie fair, followed by two weeks of foodie events. The festival celebrates Cambridgeshire’s delicious independent food scene. Highlights include pop-ups and supper clubs, food and wine tastings, cookery lessons, chef
Chef Rosemary Shrager
talks and demos alongside plenty of other things to tickle your tastebuds. Find out more at www.eat-cambridge.co.uk Cromer and Sheringham are partnering up again this year for their annual Crab & Lobster festival, celebrating the best of Norfolk’s catch, over the weekend of the 19 and 20 May. Enjoy a seaside variety concert at the Famous Pier Pavilion in Cromer, enjoy plenty of crab and lobster, watch cookery demonstrations and enjoy some of Norfolk’s finest food and drink. There’s also a crabbing and crab sandwich competition for those of you who enjoy a bit of healthy competition. Visit www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk to find out more. Sunday 20 May also sees the Taste of Sudbury return for it’s sixth annual event. Enjoy watching some of Suffolk’s best foodie talent in cookery demonstrations, tuck into great Suffolk produce on Market Hill as it is filled with stalls, stands, funky vans and more selling delicious food and pop into St Peter’s Church to explore over 30 of the finest smallscale artisan producers. Find out more tasteofsudbury.co.uk
Cromer and Sheringham Crab & Lobster Festival
The ever-popular Cambridgeshire Food Festival returns to Peterborough on 23 and 24 June. It might be a long time away, but tickets sell out for this hotly anticipated event, so snap them up now. There’ll be plenty of great food and drink to sample and buy, plus amazing cookery demonstrations, free activities and more, including dancing. There are also camping tickets available for the whole weekend. This really is a weekend of foodie fun to remember. Find out more at www.cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk There’s foodie fun everywhere in the region this season. Check out www.eastlife.co.uk to find out about more events in your area.
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Are you looking for an unrivalled Italian fine dining experience in Bedfordshire? The Green Man is a family-run restaurant at the heart of Bedfordshire, dedicated to delivering authentic Italian fine dining using the freshest ingredients.
Authentic Italian Cuisine Our seasonal a la carte menu includes a wide range of Italian delights, combining classic rustic tastes with contemporary cooking methods and presentation techniques to bring you an exquisite dining experience. You can also perfectly complement your meal with one of our specially-selected wines from some of the finest vineyard regions in Italy.
01525 860 352 thegreenmanclophill@ yahoo.co.uk The Green Man, The Green, Clophill, Bedford, MK45 4AD
The King’s Head - Ivinghoe
An appealing mix of oak beams, log fires, antique furniture and fresh flowers sets the scene in the bars, fine dining restaurant, coffee lounge and Banqueting Suite where the marks of history are firmly stamped. The dining room comfortable seats 60 in comfort and offers an a la carte menu at luncheon and dinner, additionally the Bon Appetit menu at luncheon (Monday to Saturday only) offers exceptional value.
01296 668388
Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 9EB reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk
www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk
SUPPLIERS OF THE
Finest Quality Locally-Sourced Food Since 1889
Flying the Flag for Norfolk Produce
ARTHUR HOWELL WWW.ARTHURHOWELL.COM
01328-710228 WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA
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BURNHAM MARKET
On the Written by Matt Dicks
Table
K
eep it local with these tasty tipples! We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink from our wonderful part of the world. Local and regional produce is often in the spotlight with consumers keen to support products grown and produced in the close vicinity of where they live. Visit your local farm shop and you’re immediately taken back by the array of food and drink available to us, from chutney to cider and bread to beer, there’s something for everyone. Time for a road trip and where better to sample some of the delicious delights we have to offer here in the eastern counties than with a visit to awesome new Deli located in the iconic Jarrold department store in the heart of Norwich city centre? Rest assured, pay them a visit and
Nelson’s Gold Caramelised English Vodka
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you won’t be leaving with an empty stomach! Don’t know where to start? Here’s a selection of delicious East Anglian tipples well worth adding to your shopping list:
Nelson’s Gold Caramelised English Vodka, Norfolk Here’s something that even Lord Nelson himself would be impressed with. This decadent delight is produced amongst the sun-kissed fields of Norfolk using barley grains to make the base spirit. Enticing caramel produced from local sugar beet is then blended and the result is a delicious treat to share with friends.
Warner Edwards Harrington Elderflower Gin, Northamptonshire Inspired by founding partner Tom’s mother Adèle, this gin only uses fresh, handpicked elderflowers from their farm, which are harvested
just once a year and come from field to bottle in just a few hours. It’s delicately fragrant and smooth, perfect for an afternoon in the sun!
Wild Knight Premium English Vodka, Norfolk Described as ‘liquid silk’, this pleasurable vodka is produced using water drawn from historic chalk aquifers, which run under the eastern counties. Distilled with a focus on purity with a clean, crisp taste, this Gluten free vodka is the perfect tipple to sip and savour.
Elgoods Black Dog, Cambridgeshire Here’s a rich and pungent beer to warm the soul on a cold day. This award-winning cask conditioned ale is full of roasted malt flavours. Enjoy as a refreshing tipple but it’s also perfect for adding to stews and casseroles to enhance the flavour of the dish.
Winbirri Vineyards Vintage Reserve, Norfolk Following in the footsteps of their Bacchus success, here’s a fabulous fizz to try. Pale gold and showing great clarity with tiny bubbles. The palate displays finesse, along with citrus fruit freshness and toasty notes, leading into a creamy seductive balance and finish.
Wild Knight Vodka
Aspall Pernolles Blush Cyder, Suffolk This delicious cyder from Suffolk is named after Grandmother Perronelle who spent many happy hours foraging amongst the hedgerows surrounding the orchards for blackberries. Bursting with the aromas of a freshly baked apple and blackberry pie, serve over ice for the perfect midday treat.
Giffords Hall Vineyard Rosé, Suffolk Filled to the brim with distinct aromas of roses, white peach and wild strawberry notes on the nose. On the palate it’s fresh with red berry flavours and a touch of pink grapefruit. Delightful as an aperitif but also a wonderful accompaniment to freshly cut tuna steak. For more wine tips follow Matt on Twitter @vinopatrol Or read his monthly column online at www.eastlife.co.uk/author/matt-dicks
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We are introducing Brig-ayd’s 40-kilo boot hoist.
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ON YOUR BIKE Written by Liz Mattock
THE BEST CYCLING EVENTS IN THE EAST
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he weather is better and as the cycling season spikes, it’s time to get on your bike and pedal as fast as your legs can handle. We’ve chosen the top six rides in 2018: Ride for Helen Pedal Power, 13 May Ride for Helen is back for its fifth year and promises to be one of the region’s biggest and best cycling events in 2018 for the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity (HRCC). Cyclists from across the county will be meeting at the Crix in Hatfield Peverel, Essex to take part in this familyfriendly event which offers a choice of cycling routes to
suit all capabilities; 6 miles, 15 miles, 35 miles, 65 miles and a new 100 miles. All ages and abilities are welcome to join in as individuals or as a team. For more information or to register, visit www.rideforhelen.co.uk
North Norfolk Wheelers 100 miles, 19 May Sign up to this centurion challenge over 100 miles, however don’t worry if you haven’t had that much experience because the route has been adapted for young and old, pro and beginner. There are no hills to this course but equally it’s never flat either. The roads are mainly a mixture of A and B roads and racers will complete three laps of this tenacious course. Entry costs £9.50 and closes on 8 May. www.cyclingtimetrials.org.uk/race-details/17381#anchor.
Hertfordshire 100
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Suffolk Spinner, 28 July Get your wheels in a spin this July and sign up for the Wiggle Suffolk Spinner – a ride that takes you through historic Suffolk along rural roads and short punchy climbs. The route will take you through Otley, Wickham Market and Orford towards Saxmundham and Framlingham. You’ll experience straight roads, some trail and quaint villages so if you are new to cycling or fancy a slightly harder challenge than your usual road route – this is the race for you. Also you can sign up for the Epic, Standard, Short or under 16s challenge, ranging from 42 to 96 miles. If you pre-book online there are savings to be made. www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-suffolk-spinner-sportive
Steeple Chase, 11 August Starting off in Huntingdon, this route, if you opt for the Epic 96 mile ride, will take you through Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and even Leicestershire. Ride over the three steeples which can be relentless at times before you reach the finish line. This route literally will take your through peaks and troughs and would be more suited to riders with slightly more experience. Pre book online for discounts, entry costs from £3 to £40. www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-steeple-chase-sportive
Hertfordshire 100, 26 August The Hertfordshire 100 boasts some of the nicest scenery and rural routes in England and it is a popular hotspot for cyclists to take to their bikes, especially during the summer months. Take on the options of 33, 62 or 100 miles over undulating hills and rolling countryside towards Bishops Stortford and Welwyn Garden City. All routes finish through the short sharp hills of ‘Little Switzerland’ before crossing the line and collecting your medal. The event is in conjunction with the ‘Helping Rhinos’ charity and cycling legend Phil Liggett will be showing his
Ride for Helen
support and joining in on the ride. Entry prices range from £20 to £25. If you are a team of four, you can take advantage of the 4 for 3 offer. www.sportiveuk.co.uk/hertfordshire-100
Royal Flyer, 4 November Head to Norfolk and take part in their autumn Royal Flyer race which begins at Fakenham Racecourse and winds through pretty villages of Guist, Binham, South Creake, Stanhoe and Docking before the route enters the grounds of the impressive Sandringham estate basking in the beautiful autumn colours. If you are looking for one more challenge before the winter comes in and you have to return to the gym – this is it. Pre book online for discounts, Entry costs from £3 to £40 with a range of short and longer distance routes. www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-theroyal-flyer-sportive So saddle up and get peddling!
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Fashion
Style or Fashion? Written by Ruth Essex
Although I work with style and fashion, they are not the same thing. Style is about an individual expressing their personality or mood through what they wear; whereas fashion is about clothing relating to a particular period in time. You can follow fashion and not be stylish, and indeed you can be stylish and not follow fashion. Or you may be both. It just depends what drives your sartorial choices. Each season I am drawn to 2-3 items that I love and use these to upgrade my wardrobe. As my style preference is predominately euro chic, I am less drawn to high fashion and more towards what suits my shape and colouring. My main criterion is that I have to love it. I do love a tailored jacket and I have already purchased two for summer. One is gold cotton as I adore white and gold together and the other is a sunny yellow linen jacket. I know yellow is not to everyone’s taste, but it doesn’t have to be to anyone else’s tastes, it just has to be to mine. And this is where fashion and style are so different. I will be wearing the jacket because I love it, and it expresses an element of my personal style; not because it is fashionable. Sometimes I even go off pieces I have if
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they do become fashionable, as I prefer not to look like I am following someone else’s style. Though summer still seems far away, I am already excited about wearing my new items and buying early in the season means I have time to play in my own wardrobe, mixing and matching, to create multiple outfits. If you only buy what you truly love, it makes you feel great and that leads to increased confidence and more authentic personal style. I try on lots, but strive to be discerning and buy little. Get to know your own tastes and slowly evolve your wardrobe over time. It will help you feel more stylish, which I personally value more highly than being a dedicated follower of fashion. Ruth Essex, - Stylist & Image Consultant ruthcrofts@btinternet.com - Tel: 07900 910 666
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Vintage Fairs From soft buttery leather jackets and retro Levis to that sequin dress you didn’t know you needed, there’s something special about a vintage fair. Find a hidden treasure at one of these local gems: Snape Malting Vintage & Makers Market , Sunday 8 April, from 10am to 4pm. The popular Vintage & Makers Market at Snape Maltings kicks off a season of markets at the Suffolk coast venue this month. It’s hosted by Deben Events, who have handpicked a choice of vintage traders and local makers and artisans with some 50 traders lined up to take part. Expect to find a wide range of vintage furniture, timeless fashion and retro homewares, alongside handmade jewellery, art and fabrics. For more information about the market visit www.debenevents.com
The Curiosity Fair, 28-29 April at Scotsdale Garden Centre, Great Shelford and 26 May at Friends Meeting House, Saffron Walden Drive along the border of Essex and Cambridgeshire and you’re bound to find a sign advertising this quirky fair. It alternates venues each month and is stacked with vintage fashions and accessories, furnishings and antiques – there’s tea and cake too! All 2018 dates can be found at www.facebook.com/The-Curiosity-Fair-928474413843431 Lou Lou’s Norwich Vintage Fair, 22 April, 11am-4pm St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich A firm favourite on the vintage scene, Lou Lou’s fair returns for a spring edition in Norwich this month. There’s plenty of stalls selling a mix of fashion styles, accessories, home wares and collectables. Add to your experience by visiting the hair and beauty salon for a makeover; think pin curls and sky scraping beehives! Biddy’s Tea Room will also be serving up tea and cake! Entry £2.50, under 12s free. Essex Museum of Power Antique & Vintage Fair, 15 April, 10.30am – 4pm The Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Langford, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6QA The unusual setting is one of the highlights of this fair. The museum will be cleared of many of its exhibits in order to accommodate stallholders, which expand into the courtyard. You’ll find stalls selling a range of antique and vintage items from jewellery, household, collectables, clothes and bric-a-brac. There will also be other attractions including an art trail, model village, a genuine vintage tea room and much more. Entry £3, kids free. Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair, 28-29 April, 9.30am-4pm The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9DX Don’t worry if you don’t get a chance to visit this time around, this popular fair is held over two days every month. With around 50 stalls offering a good mix of antiques, jewellery, clothing, vinyl records, kitchenalia and more, it’s quite easy to spend a couple hours browsing and admiring the items on sale. Entry is just £1, under 16s are free entry and its dog-friendly too; a great day out for the whole family!
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How to Choose Wedding Flowers Written by Katrina Otter
W
hatever style of wedding you’re planning, flowers will almost certainly play a part in your day. From bouquets and buttonholes to tablecentres and statement arrangements, weddings flowers bring plenty of natural beauty to such a special occasion. But, when you’re deciding on your floral scheme and you’re not necessarily a floral expert it can be quite tricky to know exactly what to do. So, with that in mind, here’s my rundown of the top things to remember when choosing your wedding flowers: Firstly, let’s start with the most important thing of all – your florist. Choosing the florist that’s right for you is absolutely key. Take some time to research florists, get a feel for their style and the weddings that they work on before getting in touch. Check out their social media feeds – do you like what you see? If the answer’s ‘yes’, get in contact and arrange to meet up. Before that meeting, it’s useful to put together a Pinterest board and/or save some of your favourite inspiration pics from Instagram so that you can share your initial ideas with your florist. This will give them a good idea of the style, vibe and colour scheme that you’re going for and the types of bouquets and arrangements that you like. It can also be worth thinking about your priorities here too. Do you really want a floral backdrop and a suspended installation? Is your bouquet the most important thing or is it your dream to have a wow factor installation such as a floral arch or backdrop? Knowing what you really want will help your florist put together your quote. And whilst we’re talking about quotes, let’s talk about budgets too. I can’t stress enough how important it is for you to know your floral budget before you meet your florist and for you to share this with them. Flowers can be expensive but knowing your budget and your priorities will ensure that your
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florist can create a scheme that gives you the best wedding flowers possible, ideally without going over budget. It’s also important to remember that when you see your floral quote that you’re not just paying for the flowers themselves. You’re paying for your florist’s time, expertise and skill. Your quote might also include travel, staff costs, set-up and breakdown not to mention equipment and time needed to create your wedding florals too. Meetings and consultations could also be included plus a whole host of other elements too. In short, those figures don’t just account for the blooms themselves. With those practicalities aside, here are a few more things to remember:
• Working with seasonal flowers can be more cost effective – ask your florist what will be available on your date before you settle on specific varieties • Check with your venue before you set your heart on large installations. It’s important to know what’s allowed and what’s not. • Whilst you’re speaking to your venue(s), confirm access times and times for breakdown. Your florist will need to know how long they’ve got to get everything set up for you, which may have an impact on how much they quote. • If you’re on a budget, can any of your wedding flowers be used more than once? Ceremony arrangements can move to your reception for example or your bouquet could decorate the top table or cake table. Think creatively!
Weddings • Be clever with your budget – a few statement arrangements will have more impact than lots of little details and more expensive individual flowers such as peonies and hydrangeas can have a bigger impact than lots of smaller blooms. • Your bridal bouquet will be in LOTS of photos and it will be with you all day. Go for the best bouquet you can afford – you won’t regret it! Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser with over 10 years experience. Find out how she could help you plan your wedding day at www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk Image credits: Greenacres, Coco and Kat, Hannah Duffy Photography
• Be flexible! You might have a certain bloom in mind for your wedding flowers but being flexible and allowing your florist to choose the best variety when they actually buy your flowers might mean you get more flowers for your money. • Foliage is definitely on trend and it can be much more cost effective but please don’t expect bouquets and arrangements to be cheap. Remember that a lot of the cost of wedding flowers is for the florist’s time and experience. • Don’t forget to think about your wedding vibe when you plan. Certain varieties lend themselves better to certain wedding styles so talk through your plans with your florist and ask for their input. • If you have your heart set on large installations then talk to your florist about incorporating some faux, especially for anything at height.
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Consumer
Martin Lewis Talks...
I
f you’ve two or more cars in your household, you may be able to save £1,000s using a multi-car policy…then again doing that may leave you paying £1,000s over the odds. Frustrating isn’t it. There’s no law as to when it’s cheaper, but I have come up with a rule of thumb that can help.
Multi-car insurance really is marmite. In a Facebook poll of 2,100 people I did recently, 40% with more than one car said multi-car won for them, 60% said separate policies did. And the differences can be startling.
Get the opposite quotes to what you’ve already got first This is the simple rule of thumb. If you’re at renewal and are in a household with more than one car, and you’ve got a multi-car policy, then start by looking for the cheapest separate policies for each car. If you’ve got separate policies then start by checking multi-car insurance. Now this might not be as catchy a rule to remember as ‘don’t eat yellow snow’ – but there is some logic behind it. This is because what tends to happen is multi-car newbies get hot offers to suck them in, then that advantage usually erodes at renewal.
The top multi-car deals Frustratingly, you can’t use comparison sites to do multi-car searches (some look like they do, but they just forward you to one insurer rather than doing a comparison). So instead, you have to do this manually as trial and error. Try as many of these as you can stomach... - Multi-car policies: Here all cars are on one policy. The big name in multi-car is www.admiral.com which would always be my start point, yet it’s not alone both www.aviva.co.uk and www.lv.com are players in this area as well. - Multi-car discounts: Here you get a discount on the cost to insure each ‘additional’ vehicle. There’s www.morethan.com
(15%), www.axa.co.uk (10%), www.esure.com (10%), www.priviledge.com (% varies) and www.sheilaswheels.com (10%). There are also a range of firms that in one way or another potentially offer those with multiple cars discounts. Yet here the cars aren’t all in one policy. They are separate policies where you get a discount. Therefore, the easy way to do this is to use a comparison site for each car and just keep a note of these firms’ prices for each vehicle. Plus as the discount is off each additional policy, insure the car with the cheapest premium first because you’ll usually get the discount on the next ‘additional’ (and subsequent) cars – and if they’re most expensive you save more. This can be especially useful for example if one car is for a young driver, and far more expensive than others. - Multi-policy discounts. Here the discount is for getting an additional policy, eg, it could be a car policy and a home policy, but two cars also counts. For this, try www.directline.com (which isn’t on comparison sites) and www.churchill.com - the discount varies.
The cheapest standalone policies There’s a whole art to getting cheap car insurance for individual cars including; haggling, cashback sites, how to home into the perfect policy requirements and more. You can read my full guide to it at www.moneysavingexpert.com/carinsurance or for under 25s at www.moneysavingexpert.com/youngdrivers. Yet in brief, for each car, just use a comparison site for each vehicle. Yet as they don’t search identical insurers, and can have different prices for the same firm, it’s best to do a few checks for a wider spread. Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 12 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip
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VOLVO
XC60
Written by Sue Cooke - Twitter @cookecars The Volvo XC60 has been voted Best Medium Crossover in the UK Car of the Year Awards 2018. The new premium five-seater SUV won praise from fellow motoring journalists for its style, comfort and versatility. And I have to agree. Class leading technology even includes safety features for pedestrians so that if the driver has a slight loss of concentration, the car will take over. This secondgeneration XC60 is the first Volvo to have Steer Assist. The safety aid uses radar and a forward-facing camera to detect and identify objects, such as ‘zombie’ pedestrians using their mobile phone who may step into the path of the car. The system automatically applies the steering or provides additional steering input in an emergency to help avoid a potential collision. Volvo says it is a step towards fully autonomous cars and a step towards the company’s Vision 2020 – which is that no-one will be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car by 2020. Once you have got the brand loyalty, good looks and eco wishes out of the way, it is technology that will attract new buyers. And this SUV has it all. Much of it I found an amazing treat, such as a touch screen, which works while I am wearing gloves. Voice activation allows me to change the radio station, input an address in the sat-nav and even change the cabin temperature, all without moving my hands from the steering wheel or my eyes from the road. I know that we are officially in the season of spring, but there are still cold days and what has got to be the best feature is the heated steering wheel. A feature I haven’t come across before is an icon which flashes onto the screen in front of the driver if sensors
FACTS AT A G L A N C E
MODEL: Volvo XC60 R-Design PRICE: from £39,705 ENGINE: D4 AWD PERFORMANCE: 0-62 in 8.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 127 mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 133/136 g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 55.4 MPG think the car is too close to the one in front. What fantastic technology for those drivers who need constant warnings about tailgating! But Volvo hasn’t forgotten exterior good looks and the XC60 offers the best of Scandinavian design and a very luxurious interior. If you look closely you can spot the little Swedish flag emblem in the dashboard. I like the easy use of the ignition switch, which is a square knob, in the centre tunnel between the seats, which the driver turns to engage the engine.The D4, which will be the best-selling engine has excellent responsive acceleration. While being a medium sized SUV there is plenty of space for long legs and many useful storage spaces. The XC60 feels compact behind the wheel and is agile to manoeuvre. The Volvo XC60 is almost the perfect car and certainly one of the safest. I almost wonder what on earth the R&D people will come up with next but as usual, the Swedes will probably think of it first.
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IS YOUR KITCHEN OR AGA LOOKING TIRED? Our expertise isn’t limited to repairing Bathrooms...
EXTENSIVE RANGE OF BEDROOMS & KITCHENS SUPPLIED & FITTED BESPOKE & HANDMADE FURNITURE
Have a look at what we can do to transform your kitchen or Aga with a completely different look: DOORS & CUPBOARDS
If your cupboard doors are in need of a makeover, why not let us resurface and/or repair them? By changing the colour of your cupboard doors your kitchen will be given a totally new look – at the fraction of the cost of replacements.
• From Design to Completion • Everything supplied & fitted • Top brand white goods • Several storage solution ideas SHOWROOM OPENING HOURS: 7am to 5.30pm Mon - Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm Sat
• Contemporary, Traditional & Classic. We can supply & fit or supply only for any style • FrEE Design Service
Unit 24, Northfield Business Park, Soham, Ely, Cambs. CB7 5UE (Behind Scampers)
Tel: 01353 725380 Fax: 01353 725384 Out of hours phone: Tony on 07738559569
www.langtryfurniture.co.uk The customer above had a full restoration of this gorgeous kitchen. Finished in a low sheen coating in the exact colours chosen by our customer. The results above speak for themselves.
AGA RESTORATION
Our customer wanted her Aga to fit in with the rest of her new updated colour scheme so her old chipped cream Aga was transformed for her. We carry out isolated repairs to any vitreous enamelled cooking range in situ, in any colour. We repair anything from isolated minor cosmetic damage to large fractures on the enamel. We specialise in full resurfacing & colour change options, like the customer’s AGA range above.
“Dreammaker Bathrooms were fantastic. Our kitchen worktops were a very old fashioned biscuit colour and we wanted them changed to black. The guys did a fantastic job and the kitchen looks totally different - so much better! They did the whole thing in one day, cleared up really well afterwards and left me with a kitchen to be proud of. Highly recommended”.
Ivy Farm, The Green, Saxtead, Nr Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 9QG
01728 685 958
sales@dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk
www.dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk
www.facebook.com/dreammakerbathrooms
n one ly
Home & Garden
Bathrooms on a Budget S
pring often brings with it the desire for a fresh look in the home. Our bathrooms are used everyday, but a complete overhaul and new suite can be costly. Don’t worry help is at hand as we’ve come up with some simple décor ideas that won’t break the bank…
Top of the tiles Tiling is a great opportunity to get creative. In recent years bathroom tiling has become a trend of its own. For a sleek chic look keep it simple with neutral tones but add a stylish twist with larger floor tiles. Add a warm Mediterranean and Moroccan influence with a mix of colourful decorative patterns, geometric designs and efflorescent motifs or if traditional yet stylish is what you want to achieve, try herringbone tiling in white matt with grey grouting – one of 2018’s biggest bathroom trends! Whether it’s shower tiling, splash backs or flooring, replacing or adding tiles to a small area of the bathroom can make a big impact.
Perfect paint It may seem simple but refreshing paint work or updating wall colours can make a real difference, plus it’s budget-friendly! Be selective though, it’s important to find a durable paint that will last amid the daily steam and condensation. For a hard-wearing
bathroom paint, it doesn’t get much better than Fenwick & Tilbrook’s newly launched range of exceptional quality, Scandinavian inspired internal and external paint. The Norfolk based company have used their years of expertise to create paints, which are rich in pigment giving them an extraordinary depth of colour. While they are highly durable, the paints are waterbased with low VOC content, making them suitable for use throughout the home. There are 120 colours available but ‘eggshell’ is highly recommended to give your bathroom a stylish look! Find out more at www.fenwickandtilbrook.com.
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COME AND SEE THE EXCITING NEW RANGES IN THE SHOWROOM In our extensive showroom we have lights for every taste, from traditional chandeliers to contemporary statement pieces and ultra modern LED fittings.
Witchford Lighting Centre Ltd Come and visit us at
Unit 2J Merlin Court, Lancaster Way Business Park, Witchford. CB6 3GN
www.witchfordlighting.co.uk
01353 664108
MELTON
TILE
STUDIO
We are passionate about wood and since our launch ten years ago, our suite of products has lead the market in their breadth of application, uniqueness of design, quality of construction and performance in use.
The Tile Studio Melton is now a supplier of the Frontline baths and shower ranges, as well as the vast array of tiles.
TEL:
01394 610528
www.meltontilestudio.co.uk | meltontilestudio@talktalk.net The Tile Studio, Spur End, Wilford Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1RB
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The installation of well-made, well-specified timber windows and doors can really enhance the beauty and value of your home and we look forward to working with you on your exciting project!
0845 652 7300
www.timberwindows.com 11a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4EA, 01234 930080 36 Beech Road St Albans, AL3 5AS, 01727 809944
bathroom suite. Add matching accessories or update flooring tiles to finish the look. Black and white is key to achieving a modern style.
Marble mania
Tap it If you don’t have the budget for a new suite, give your current bath, shower and sink an update by changing the taps. For an on-trend heritage look choose large showerheads and taps in brass or copper. Don’t forget to change door and cabinet handles to complete the look!
Digital technology Bring your bathroom into the digital age with the addition of a digital shower. Part of the UK Bathrooms Brands range from the Pure Bathroom Collection, have options which controls the water at a consistent temperature and features colour-changing controls and an integrated quiet pump for a luxury shower with less noise. Finish the set up with the Pitch Mirror with built in Bluetooth technology and discreetly integrated dual stereo speakers and have yourself a bathroom party! We see this being just what we need to perk up on a Monday morning!
Hotel chic Egyptian cotton linen and white fluffy towels – the best hotels know the secrets to subtle luxury. But why only experience it on holiday? Make your bathroom your own chic boutique hotel with the addition of quality towels and bathrobes. Fold and stack neatly for a clean cut look or roll and place in a Hogla storage basket. Invest in premium quality – trust us it will be worth every penny!
Monochrome Still massively on trend for 2018, this look is easy to achieve. Simply paint cabinets and woodwork in a contrasting colour that works with your tilling and
Last year we started to see marble creep into interiors, but this year it’s one of the leading trends. Smaller budgets can get the look by replacing accessories such a soap dispensers and toothbrush holders – all of which can be found in budget high street retail stores, while if you have a few extra pounds to spend, change work surfaces to marble for a luxurious feel.
Greenery and stones In our ever-busy lives relaxation is important, but finding the time (and money) to visit a spa just isn’t practical, so why not bring the spa to you? Think of all the things you love about spas; the robes and slippers, aromas and natural wellbeing, this can all easily be incorporated into the bathroom. Set the scene by adding greenery such as real or fake plants and natural textures such as bamboo or stones. Add in a scented candle or fragrance diffuser and wrap yourself in a fluffy robe, and ta-da, you have your own mini spa! You might even be able to convince your partner or children to give you a pedicure…
Restoration project Is your bathroom suite looking a little old? Or perhaps there’s some damage; a crack or chip? Throwing it out and replacing it with a new one doesn’t need to be the only option as DreamMaker Bathrooms in Suffolk are specialists in restoring sanitary ware. A trusted and respected business throughout East Anglia, the company are able to refurbish or even change the colour of your bathroom suite without the mess and expense of removing and replacing them. Repairing chips or fractures can be carried out in a day and they can even help fix kitchenwares and surfaces. This is definitely a company worth adding to your phone book! Find out how they can help with your restoration by calling 01728 685958 or visit dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk
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Premium Inset Gas Fires at Orion Heating
Carpet From £8.99sqm Vinyl From £12.99sqm Wood From £44.99sqm Laminate From £19.99sqm
Friendly Personal Service Free Fitting on Carpet, Wood, laminate & Vinyl Free Underlay on all Carpets from £13.99sqm Free Estimating & Measuring service Uplift & Dispose of Old Flooring New Villeroy & Boch Laminate Flooring Stand
Come and visit our extensive showroom Peartree Centre
lchester From Co ntre Town Ce
From Tollgate Retail Park
OrionHeating.co.uk 01279 813591
SHOWROOM AT Takeley Business Centre Dunmow Road, Takeley, CM22 6SJ
Littleport Timber Buildings
Free delivery & erection • Free quotes Free survey • Free consultations Fully customised • Built for you See our website for testimonials
Unit 5a, Saxon Business Park A10 Bypass, Littleport, CB6 1XX Tel: 01353 861707 www.littleport-timber-buildings.co.uk
Dugard
Ave
Peartree Rd
See our full carpet range in store now
Peartree Carpet Gallery
Find us in The S Stanway tanway C Centre, e Peart Peartree tree Rd Rd, Colchester CO3 0JY T 01206 767560 www thepea www.thepeatreecarpetgallery.co.uk
We are now working with two other companies to offer specialist design and build services for disabled & elderly garden annexes
NEED MORE SPACE? TAKE A LOOK AT OUR GARDEN ROOMS TAILORED TO YOUR LIFESTYLE Cambridge Garden Studio are a company you can trust with over 30 years building industry experience. • H alf the cost of a loft conversion or extension with minimal disturbance to your daily life. • Maintenance free exterior packages. • O ur Airbnb studios or holiday lets can create a healthy income from a minimal investment, from 17% to 88%. • O ur bespoke, studios are handcrafted to perfection in front of your eyes. • FREE site survey, 3D impression drawings and quotation. See our website www.cambridgegardenstudios.co.uk for more information and testimonials JUST SOME OF THE STUDIO USES • Beauty and Therapy Rooms • Holiday Lets • Cafes • Shops • Commercial Offices • Office • Cinema Room • Music Room • Arts and Crafts • Studio • Kids Space • Chill Out Rooms • Hot Tub Houses • Guest Rooms
ANY SIZE, ANY SHAPE. ANY DESIGN Sales Office & Show Studio by appointment only 01954 488306 at Scotsdales, 120 Cambridge Road, Great Shelford, Cambridge, CB22 5JT
email enquiries@cambridgegardenstudios.co.uk for a PDF brochure
Cambridge Garden Studios has just launched it’s very first off-the-shelf studio at £7950 + VAT for 3.4m x 3.6m external sizes
The Say hello to Wendy Howes, our gardening columnist, who will be revealing the trials and tribulations of her garden restoration project every month…
I
am hoping that by the time you read this we will have turned a corner and spring really will be here to stay. Our secret garden has taken quite a pounding over the winter months with a seemingly endless barrage of storms, the penultimate being the Beast from the East delivering a generous helping of snow, wind and bitterly cold temperatures. Any life that was starting to appear above ground level was well and truly halted and time will no doubt reveal a few casualties with some of the more tender perennials. Forsythia
Myosotis
as Myosotis (Forget-me-Not) are prolific self-seeders and will appear throughout your garden in abundance if you don’t keep on top of them. I love a few ‘free plants’ and tend to rescue some of the seedlings, potting them up to replant in gaps elsewhere in the garden later in the season. The bonus of ‘free plants’ is that you don’t feel too guilty if at a later date you decide to dig them up in order to introduce a new planting scheme. April is also the time to be pruning the early flowering spring shrubs, such as Forsythia x intermedia, allowing them time to put on new growth over the summer months which will produce next year’s blooms.
As we enter April it really is time to look forward and focus on the growing months ahead. Investing a little time and money now will pay dividends later. If you haven’t already done so, now is the perfect time to clear any remaining leaves, which have drifted onto borders and trim and tidy up the withered growth from last year’s perennials. This can be a delicate task and one, which should not be rushed for fear of accidentally trimming this year’s growth.
It is such a wonderful time of year as the garden springs back into life. This in turn injects us gardeners with a burst of energy and enthusiasm to once again create and be at one with nature.
Read more on Wendy’s blog at www.wendyswholeworld.com Sisyrinchium
Possibly a gardner’s least favourite job, but a few hours spent lifting any weeds or self-sown seedlings before they have established a root network is time well spent. Perennials such as Sisyrinchium striatum and annuals such
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25th
A
(199 nnive 3-2 rsar 018 y )
Rolling Garage Doors
SOMETHING R O F K C U T S WEEK? TO DO THIS Visit us www.eastlife.co.uk for the latest events in your area.
The RollMatic TDL roller garage door creates more room in front of and inside the garage. It is available in stylish Traffic White, Anthracite Grey (shown) or Golden Oak, which gives a natural timber look. • Particularly space-saving tubular operator with emergency manual gear • Trouble-free to maintain curtain cover as standard • Control incl. 2 Hand transmitters • Closing edge safety device with sensors
• Standard emergency crank handle for opening the door in case of a power failure • Quiet door travel through track rollers
• Handy belt system for the easy fitting of the curtain to the barrel • Size range: Width: 1200–3050mm Height: 1500–2300mm
DON’T FORGOT TO ENTER OUR COMPETITIONS! www.eastlife.co.uk/lifestyle/competitions/
Blinds & Doors Established 1965
Come and visit our showroom. www.cooksblinds.co.uk Tel: 01603 410304 Email: sales@cooksdoors.co.uk Showroom: Burnet Road, Sweet Briar Ind. Est, Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 2BS
Like us on Facebook /eastlifemag Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines
Follow us on Instagram @eastlifemag
www.eastlife.co.uk
Earsham Home Furnishings
Our extensive showrooms house a large range of pine, oak & hand painted furniture in East Anglia, traditional fireplaces, surrounds and accessories, solid brass lighting, mirrors, prints, giftware and decorative accessories.
Monday - Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm – 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhall.co.uk - Web: www.earshamhall.co.uk
EARSHAM HALL, BUNGAY, SUFFOLK, NR35 2AN FURNITURE LIGHTING FIREPLACES GIFTS TEAROOM KITCHENS EVENTS
Hall Bros. East Life (April 2018).qxp_Layout 1 15/03/2018 15:58 Page 1
Traditional craftsmanship, first class products – A love for wood and an eye for detail
For over 50 years we have been creating beautifully-crafted products from wood. Every project is as individual as our client’s brief and designed to complement the home it is for, whether it is a period property, a barn conversion or a contemporary residence. For more information call 01206 298746 / 01473 365167 or visit www.hall-brothers.co.uk
CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | KITCHENS | DOORS | WINDOWS | STAIRCASES | BARNS | CONSTRUCTION | FURNITURE
How to Rent your Property...Fast!
F
or landlords, ensuring your property is consistently rented by reliable tenants is paramount. Fenn Wright, experts in property sales and lettings across Essex and Suffolk, give their advice on how to make sure your property finds good tenants in no time at all. Get the word out about your property To secure tenants quickly, you need to make sure that your property is marketed effectively to make sure you attract your target audience, and this does not mean just placing your home on Rightmove. Presenting strong, quality photographs with the right, well-crafted information through a variety of channels will make a big impact. If you engage a good estate agent, they will not only handle all of this for you but they will also proactively seek the right tenants for your home. For example, they will share details of those seeking or letting properties across their branches to tap into a wider pool of potential buyers or tenants and ensure greater, quicker success for all concerned. Good estate agents will also give accurate property valuations so that your home is marketed to the right people and viewings come from genuine prospective tenants only.
Make sure your home is ready Having got potential tenants through the door, you need to make sure that your rental property is in good order and appropriately furnished. Ensuring that your home is clean, tidy and appropriately decorated is obviously essential for a quick let. However, you should also check that taps, showers/baths, electricity, boilers and appliances are all functioning. Open any fitted cupboards and inspect all furnishings; fixing or replacing anything that is not working or does not meet the right standard. If you are marketing your home as a high-end property then your presentation, fixtures and fittings need to reflect this.
Ensure your paperwork is in order Last but not least, it is vital that you and your property meet the various regulations required for the rental market. Equally, you must ensure the correct paperwork is in place and up to date if you want your tenants to move in quickly. The government and the RLA websites both include advice about the various laws and documents for landlords. Visit www.fennwright.co.uk to find out more about Fenn Wright.
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Tickets www.ticketsource.co.uk/broadway
Arts
The Arts Column Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right.
51 Norton Way, Letchworth Garden, City, Herts SG6 1BH | Tel: 01462 685139 www.nortonwaygallery.com
A
s I wander out into the mid-March snow, pull my winter coat tight around me and secure my favourite woolly scarf, I can’t help wondering, where has the spring gone? As beautiful as it is, the snow can thwart many a best-laid plan, especially of journey and travel. Fear not, the wonderful Eagle Gallery, Bedford, has a superb alternative. This April they have a ‘journey’ inspired collection from three of their cooperative members, including experienced watercolourist Keith Wells. “‘Escapes’ is an exhibition of paintings and photography by Eagle Gallery artists Patricia Ellis, Keith Wells and Sue Wookey. Using a range of media to capture their experiences but also joined by a deep love of watercolour, the artists present an escape into real and imagined journeys and encounters,” says The Eagle Gallery.
Images by Keith Wells
This threesome of regular gallery artists is a rich and diverse collection of minds, experience and work. From the maze-like compositions of Sue’s British creatures and folklore to the exotic patterns and colours of Patricia’s global observations, the quest for discovery provides a wealth of design, texture and adventure. The traditional watercolour approach is supplied by Keith’s fluid constructions of light, shade, tone and colour. Equally these fresh and compelling paintings lay out a pathway of possibilities and happenings. I first met Keith in the Wynd Gallery, Letchworth, another cooperative gallery of which he is a hard working member. He told me of his love of drawing, particularly drawing from life. His dedication to the honesty of what he sees and recording it in a material appropriate is close to my own heart. I found his stories of learning and practice both fascinating and inspiring. It would seem that each piece of Keith’s work is a journey of knowledge in its own right. Keith’s considered and quietly energetic watercolours exude a sense of spontaneity and joy. He combines a riot of earthy colours and tones interjected with contrasting, yet subtle, splashes of primary reds, yellows and blues. His quick brushstrokes, daubs and dashes convey a sense of immediacy that creates work that is classical and contemporary, at the same time. The resulting pieces convey a strong feeling of space, moment and action.
With a background in architecture and three-dimensional work, Keith is able to depict mass and volume with seeming ease. Within spacious scenes of landscape, street and buildings, his quiet and unassuming figures are free to purposefully go about their day’s activities. Whether observing a simple shopping trip or a day out to a national monument, Keith energetically portrays a world of activity and encounter. Through various perspectives, media and application, all of the artists capture a sense of beginnings and opportunities. Discover their work and many other artists, at this super, long established working gallery. ‘Escapes’ - Patricia Ellis, Keith Wells and Sue Wookey Saturday 7 April - Saturday 14 April The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP Tel: 01234 346995 | www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk
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JOSEPH TOONGA PRESENTS
DAUGHTER, DAUGHTER – BEFORE I MET YOU FRIDAY 4 MAY, 7.30PM
She is a shadow, she is a mirror. Joseph Toonga shines an honest light on his experience of fatherhood using his signature hip hop and contemporary dance style.
Easter Holiday Activities
Feel amazing!
29 March – 13 April Lynnsport, St James Pool, Downham Leisure & Oasis
Holiday & Breakfast Clubs/Swimming/Football Gymnastics/Roller Skating/Archery and loads more!
aliveleisure.co.uk
Arts News for April
Celebration of sporting artist James Ward RA (1769-1859) The Packard Galleries at Palace House Newmarket will provide a fitting backdrop for the celebration of sporting artist, James Ward. The exhibition ‘James Ward: Animal Painter’ opens on Friday 4 May until Sunday 28 October 2018. Brought together for a rare viewing, are paintings including the artist’s arresting ‘Fight between a Lion and a Tiger (1797)’ on loan from the Fitzwilliam Museum and ‘View in Tabley Park (1813-18)’, on loan from Tate. Additional works on display will include a series of delicately rendered drawings demonstrating Ward’s precise draughtsmanship and a selection of the renowned Lithographic Drawings of Celebrated Horses. National Heritage Centre at Palace House, Palace Street, Newmarket, CB8 8EP | Tel: 01638 667314 www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk
James Ward (1769–1859), Fight between a Lion and a Tiger © The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
Henry Moore Studios & Gardens, Herts opens for 2018 season The Henry Moore Studios & Gardens, in Much Hadham, have opened for the 2018 season with a new exhibition; ‘Out of the Block: Henry Moore Carvings’, available to view from 30 March until 28 October. In the year of Henry Moore’s 120th birthday, the Henry Moore Foundation presents an exhibition exploring Moore’s changing approach to this key element of his artistic practice. ‘Out of the Block’ brings together nearly 30 major works in stone and wood, made over six decades. They trace Moore’s development as an artist and a carver and reveal his influences at different moments in his career. In addition to the sculptural work, the exhibition features film and photographs from the Henry Moore Archive. Dane Tree House, Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE Tel: 01279 843 333 | www.henry-moore.org
Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios Hundreds of artists are preparing to throw open their studio doors to the public as part of Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios 2018 from 26 May – 10 June. The event is celebrating its 24th anniversary this year. It provides the opportunity for artists to show and sell their work directly from their studios. It also encourages everyone, from ardent art-lovers to the curious first-time visitor, to get out and about, explore the county, see art and meet artists in the informal surroundings of their work space.
NNOS 2017 artist Jenni Thornely in her studio during the Wex
More than 420 artists will be taking part this year across 241 venues throughout Norfolk. Visitors to the free event can see art in a range of settings, from professional studios to garages and barns, watching art as it happens. www.nnopenstudios.org.uk.
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Cambridgeshire
Cambridge The
Scene
Written by Tracey Dean (www.traceydean.co.uk)
Top 10 places for a tasty burger
T
he burger scene in Cambridge has exploded in recent years with choices ranging from a classic to a spicy burger and everything else in between! Here’s our pick of the best beef burgers in the city:
1
Steak & Honour 4 Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB Created by Michelin trained chefs expect a high quality Riverside beef burger in a tasty brioche bun. Check out their city centre restaurant or be sure to look out for their mobile Citroen H vans! www.steakandhonour.co.uk
2
Butch Annie’s 23 Market Street, Cambridge, CB2 3PA Tel: 01223 361792 Offering a wide selection of burgers with the option to upgrade any to a huge ½ pounder! A must try is “The Jack” burger made with prime beef and Butch’s delicious Jack Daniel’s Sticky Bourbon Sauce. www.butchannies.com
3
Ed’s Grand Arcade, Cambridge, CB2 3QF Tel: 01223 311319 A retro American diner based in the Grand Arcade with a range of burgers on the menu including their All-Day Breakfast Burger containing a 6oz beef patty, hash brown, griddled egg, bacon and American cheese! www.edseasydiner.com
Smokeworks
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COMMUNITY CARERS
Full and Part time (ÂŁ8.00 - ÂŁ15.00 per hour) Westminster Homecare Ltd is seeking Carers in Huntingdon, St Ives, St Neots and Cambridge to join a friendly team delivering care to older people in their own homes. Experience is not essential as full training will be provided. We accept applications from drivers and non drivers Successful applicants would be able to provide a flexible and reliable service.
Please contact us for more information or to request an application pack on 01954 263076 mobile 07464490874 or email Kelly.Mason@whc.uk.com
4
Punt Yard 6-8 Quayside, Cambridge, CB5 8AB Tel: 01223 855903 Set among the busy Quayside, is the Punt Yard. Their beef burger includes a delicious Russian dressing and the option to add pulled pork, bacon and cheese. www.puntyard.com
Honest Burgers
7 Smokeworks
5
Byron 12 Bridge Street, Cambridge, CB2 1UF Tel: 01223 462927 Located in Bridge Street, Byron burgers 6oz patties are cooked medium – perfect if you like a pink and juicy burger. Options range from the Classic or try something more adventurous such as the spicy Chilli burger. www.byronhamburgers.com
6
Gourmet Burger 43-45 Regent Street, Cambridge, CB2 1AB Tel: 01223 312598 This varied menu includes handcrafted burgers made from 100% British prime beef patties. Favourites include the tasty ‘The Don’ burger, which includes American cheese, gorgonzola, baconnaise and an onion jam. www.gbk.co.uk
Honest Burgers 1-6 Corn Exchange St, Cambridge Exchange Street, CB2 3QF Tel: 01223 788240 This popular burger restaurant opened in the city centre last year with a special beef burger exclusive to the Cambridge branch. It includes Baron Bigod brie sourced from local cheesemongers Cambridge Cheese Co. www.honestburgers.co.uk
8
SmokeWorks 2 Free School Lane, Cambridge, CB2 3QA 1-3 Station Road, Cambridge, CB1 2JB With branches in Free School Lane and Station Road SmokeWorks is the place to go to try something new. Their smoked and pulled beef brisket burger is just the ticket served in a bun with pickles, slaw and a BBQ mayo. www.smokeworks.co.uk
9
Bill’s 34-35 Green St, Cambridge, CB2 3JG Tel: 01223 329638 A restaurant famed for its variety of British dishes including their enticing hamburger featuring their very own secret sauce. If you’re watching the carbs go for the ‘Naked Burger’ without the sesame seed bun. www.bills-website.co.uk
10
Cau 15 Bene’t Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QN Tel: 01223 357000 Cau is a Buenos Aires style restaurant based in Bene’t Street. The Classic Cau beef burger includes a coalgrilled beef patty with an option to double up your patty or add an onion ring, fried egg or bacon! www.caurestaurants.com
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Holiday Homes starting from
£94,995 View our new luxury holiday homes and our 5* facilities with a slice of cake and refreshments on us! 12 month season
Golf facilities
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Bars and restaurants on site
To reserve your place, call 01945 871202 pure-leisure.co.uk Terms & Conditions All VIP visits must be booked with the sales office in advance with numbers confirmed for catering purposes. VIP visits must involve a park tour and lodge viewings prior to taking refreshments, served in Café Revive between 12pm and 3pm, 7 days a week. Alcoholic refreshments are not included within this offer.
10
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NEW ROOM NOW OPEN!!! ESCAPE ROOM NEW ROOM NOW OPEN!!! Can you escape in 60 minutes? TeamROOM based challenge 7 players NEW NOW2- OPEN!!!
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Exciting news...we are expanding! As well as our 2-6 berth, Marvin we have a brand new 2-4 berth motorhome, Milo available to rent for the 2018 season.
Perfect for Familys, friends, corporate events, hens & stags, celebrations & just because. Originally and personally designed escape room, from an owner who is also an enthusiast.
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What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 3-7 Apr Quartet A charming tale of four ageing opera singers and a celebration of the twilight years and the hilarity of growing old disgracefully! Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 5-Apr Iain Stirling: U OK Hun? X Join the ‘star of comedy’ (The i) as he explores dinner party etiquette and the pressures on a generation brought up in a world of instant gratification. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 6-Apr Carl Hutchinson - The Tour This new show is easily the most brutally honest and hilariously self-deprecating outing for this Geordie comedian. Key Studio, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 7-Apr Mark Thomas Name the comedian who might say ‘I wonder if I can set up a comedy club… in a refugee camp... in Palestine?’ Of course, it’s Mark Thomas. And that is exactly what he tries to do. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 11-Apr Macbeth This contemporary production of Shakespeare’s darkest psychological thriller marks both Christopher Eccleston’s RSC debut and Niamh Cusack’s return. Key Studio, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 13-Apr Jess Robinson: Here Come The Girls Join multi award-winner and Britain’s Got Talent 2017 semi-finalist Jess Robinson for an evening of spot-on celebrity impressions, musical comedy and stunning vocal gymnastics. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk
13-14 Apr The Allotment A poignant comedy about four women serving community orders who have woven their own web of fantasy. However, the truth will out…ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 14-Apr An Audience with Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse The Strictly Come Dancing pros will perform a dance showcase spectacular designed to dazzle and wow you. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 17-21 Apr ETO: The Marriage of Figaro Mozart’s classic comedy ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ is one of the world’s most beloved operas, equally acclaimed for its sublime music and huge sense of fun. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 19-Apr Mark Steel The star of Radio 4’s Mark Steel’s in Town, and newspaper columnist of the year, is back on the road with a new show. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 19-Apr Cupid’s Revenge New Art Club, one of the UK’s best loved comedy dance theatre companies, bring you a brand new show in defence of love. Real Love. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 20-Apr Banff Mountain Film Festival Experience an extraordinary collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
20-21 Apr Ugly Chief A comedy based on true events performed by a real-life father and daughter. It explores the taboos around death and its practicalities, and the fractious relationship with a parent whose opinions you don’t always agree with. Key Studio, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Apr Menopause The Musical An all-singing, all-dancing comedy set in a department store, where four women with seemingly nothing in common, meet by chance and make fun of their woeful lives experiencing “The Change”. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 21-Apr Tez Ilyas: Teztify Armed with his trademark cheek and uncompromising approach, Tez presents his slick, smart and typically subversive new stand-up show. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 23-28 Apr Mary Stuart Following a critically acclaimed sold out season at the Almeida Theatre and direct from the West End, Robert Icke’s new adaptation of Mary Stuart comes to Cambridge. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 25-Apr Views From The Bridge A seasonal showcase of work in progress by Cambridge and East-region based artists. Expect an eclectic mixed bill of dance, theatre, spoken word. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 26-Apr An Audience with Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse Ian and Oti will deliver a night of Latin and Ballroom numbers with high intensity. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk
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THE ULTIMATE FAMILY DAY OUT 1 CHILD FREE
Come and see our collection of over 180 Birds of Prey with 3 daily flying displays. Visit the Reptile House and listen to Keeper talks on Meerkats, snakes and spiders. Also on site Mad about Owls Gift Shop, Silent Wings Tearoom, Bobb-IN-Sew and St Ives Photos.
with this advert. Must be accompanied by a paying adult. 1 per family Valid until 30/9/18.
To find out more about our upcoming events and Animal Encounters please visit our website.
Tel: 01487 741140
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27-Apr Key Comedy Night As seen on The Mash Report - Geoff Norcott storming mix of observations, impressions and satire has made him a hugely popular act on the UK Circuit. Key Studio, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
14-Apr Men United In Song 2018 Join the Men United in Song 2018 men as they perform live on stage with Peterborough Male Voice Choir in a charity concert supporting Prostate Cancer UK. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk
28-Apr Carl Hutchinson The Tour Expect killer gags, highly entertaining stories and the trademark twisted logic that has made Carl a must-see fixture in the comedy world. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk
21-Apr Little Mix Experience Four hugely talented girls pay tribute to one of the UK’s finest Girl-Bands, with breathtaking dance moves and some of the finest vocals in the UK. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
MUSIC 5-Apr Josienne Clarke & Ben Walker They cite Sandy Denny, June Tabor, Nic Jones and Pierre Bensusan as respective influences but theirs is a captivating sound that’s all their own. The Portland Arms, 129 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3BA. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
22-Apr Megson Family Folk Show Award-winning folk duo blend their infectious mix of heavenly vocals and lush harmonies into a gentle, entertaining concert specially for pre-school children. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk
6-Apr The Vaccines Without doubt one of the biggest and most adored British bands of our generation, The Vaccines are back with their highly anticipated fourth album ‘Combat Sports’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 11-Apr Shonen Knife This Japanese 3-piece punk-pop band have been performing for over 30 years, with catchy tunes coming on like a female Buzzcocks or Ramones. The Portland Arms, 129 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3BA. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 13-Apr Nine Below Zero One of the UK’s finest Rhythm & Blues Bands, Nine below Zero, formed in 1979 and named themselves after the famous Sonny Boy Williamson song. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk
24-Apr Beth Hart Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Beth Hart and her band will embark on a 14-date UK & Irish tour. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 26-Apr The Pasadena Roof Orchestra Since 1969 the Pasadena Roof Orchestra has been faithfully re-creating the glories of popular music from the 1920’s and 1930’s. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 28-Apr Songs of Farewell In C. Hubert H. Parry’s centennial year, come and enjoy selections from his sublime Songs of Farewell, and other music from the great British choral tradition. St. Mary’s Church, Burwell, CB25 0HB. 01223 813918. www.cantilenasingers.org ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 11-17 Apr Cambridge Drawing Society Spring Exhibition Over 400 original works will be exhibited, which will include paintings,
drawings, prints and sculpture. The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RP. 07703 170320 cambridgedrawingsociety.org 28-Apr St Neots Art Group Spring Exhibition St. Neots Art Group proudly present their Spring Exhibition - Original art and sculpture by local artists for sale at affordable prices. St Neots United Reformed Church, High Street, St Neots, PE19 1BN. stneotsartgroup.weebly.com 30-Apr The Museum is Not Neutral Developed to accompany the exhibition Flux, this study day will explore how cultural organisations are shifting their focus, questioning our histories, and making themselves relevant to a wider public. Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 3-15 Apr Spring Nature Trail Enjoy our popular Easter trail in the garden, just for adults and older children - with an Easter biscuit as a prize.Peckover House and Garden, Wisbech, PE13 1JR. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 13-15 April Cambridge Literary Festival From poetry to politics, fiction to finance, history to hip-hop and comedy to current affairs, Cambridge Literary Festival brings an eclectic mix of today’s best writers, thinkers and speakers to Cambridge all year round. Various venues around Cambridge. 01223 791791 www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com 28-Apr Open Air Cinema: Mamma Mia Join EACH for the magical experience of watching a classic film under the stars! Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5UU. 01733 234193. www.neneparktrust.org.uk 29-Apr Cambridge 100 Starting and finishing on the outskirts of Cambridge, this is a challenging 100 mile ride. Impington Village College, New Road, CB24 9LX
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For ww
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Short and long term Boxed storage, 250 Short and long term
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Our carpet department has a huge selection of colours and designs from Axminster. Brintons, Associated Weavers, Abingdon, Crucial Trading, Westex, Ulsters and many more. Our stores have a fantastic selection of engineered woods and laminate flooring from a variety of suppliers including Ted Todd, Parader and many others. We have an extensive collection of design flooring from Karndean and Moduleo. Add to this our superb collection of rugs, you can see we have every floor covered.
So why not come and visit our showroom today!
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www.allcrates.co.uk
A walk around
Rayleigh
Written by Liz Mattock
ILeigh on Sea or Southend this spring why f you are heading down to the coast of
not stop off on the way and extend your trip with a visit to Rayleigh. The town has been largely influenced by the Normans, with its architecture, museum, windmill and mount. Start your visit with a walk up the high street lined with coffee shops, bars and restaurants. Head to Ye Old Crown pub where you will receive a warm welcome, serving coffee, alcoholic drinks and bar food all day. Now it’s onto to our first landmark. Rayleigh Windmill is a Grade II listed building more than 200 years old. Located off the High Street on Bellingham Lane you will find a museum full of its rich history as well as an exhibition on Rayleigh Mount. The windmill is open from April to September on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Check the website for opening times as they do vary. Rayleigh Mount is a National Trust site to the north of the town but in easy reach on foot. You can take a short road off Bellingham Road to reach the mount, where you will be greeted by a lush green elevated space which was once a medieval castle but still sits at the heart of everyday life in Rayleigh. Visitor boards as well as the museum at the windmill plot a rich history of the area so be sure to stop and take a look. Rayleigh is great for a spot of shopping. Walk back on yourself towards the centre and hit the High Street and Websters Way for an array of shops both wellknown and independent. Having been on your feet all day, it’s definitely time to refuel and try one of Rayleigh’s fine restaurants. As the High Street joins Church Street, pop into La Romantica for a cosy, low lit homely Italian experience. With pasta, pizza and homemade desserts, you won’t want to leave. Don’t miss the Michael Jackson tribute act on Friday 27 April!
Essex
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What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 3-7 Apr Tango Moderno The irresistible hot new stage spectacular from tango superstars Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-Apr An Audience with Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse Strictly Come Dancing pros will perform a dance showcase spectacular designed to dazzle and wow you. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 7-Apr From Zimbabwe with Love One man’s journey across continents and cultures in an uplifting story about family ties, love and honesty. Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel Street North, Colchester, CO2 7AT. 01206 366000. www.headgatetheatre.co.uk 8-Apr Joe Lycett Joe will share jokes, paintings and tales of the internet trolling he’s been up to recently. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 9-Apr Wisdom of a Fool Star of 1950s British stage and screen, the legendary Norman Wisdom remains one of the UK’s comedy icons. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com
acoustic versions of his biggest hits. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com
13-Apr LDN Wrestling The Superstars will collide in an epic encounter inside the ring that’ll grip the audience’s attention like nothing you have seen before. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com
18-19 Apr The Drive A show about friendship, grief, the fragility of memory, turning 40 and coming of age in the 1990s. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
14-Apr Katie Piper: What is in my Head Katie is opening her own diaries, photo albums and personal memories in this most intimate and revealing talk about her life. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
19-21 Apr The Game of Love & Chai A classic French farce which pits two false servants against two false masters with, in the end, the two couples falling in love with their appropriate counterparts. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk
14-Apr Twist & Shout Featuring incredible performances and beautiful bespoke costumes, ‘Twist & Shout’ will transport you back to the sights and sounds of the ‘Swinging Sixties’. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
21-Apr The Great Gambo: The Professor of Pop For the first time, Paul Gambaccini reveals how he started life as a boy in the Bronx and wound up The Professor of Pop in Great Britain. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
15-17 Apr A Spoonful of Sherman Celebrating the life and music of multi award-winning Disney songwriters. Go on a journey through the songbook of your childhood! Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk
24-28 Apr Gallowglass A world stage premiere from the pen of one of the world’s greatest thriller writers. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
9-Apr Morgan & West: Time Travelling Magicians Expect the unexpected, believe the unbelievable, but do not dare miss the unmissable Morgan & West! Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk
17-Apr Russell Brand How do we make sense of the madness of our lives once we become parents? Russell Brand’s new stand up show tackles some of the big questions of parenthood! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
12-15 Apr Cinderella ‘Cinderella’ is the ultimate fairy-tale ballet about the girl whose life with her cruel Stepmother and Stepsisters is filled with hardship. The Harlow
18-Apr Jason Donovan For the first time, fans can hear Jason talk about the highs and lows of his career with previously untold stories and exclusive, stripped back and
25-26 Apr Dara O’Briain Catch one of the most charismatic, intelligent, fast-talking and downright funny live performers working today in this brand-new show for 2018. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 26-Apr Alice With the beloved characters from Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland’ comes this gritty un-told tale from the imagination of Early Doors Productions. Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, Chelmsford,
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Gosfield Lake Resort Camping
Excellent camping facilities, lake-side tent field and separate caravan field with electric hook-ups. Purpose-built toilets and showers. All bookable online!
Water Activities
Skiing - Lessons for all, come along and try it out. Banana - Rides and parties available. Triathalon - Swim sessions.
Double suites with lake-views, along with your private patio area to relax on.
Days Out
Bring the family for a picnic and play in our new Sand/ activity play area. Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal at our onsite restaurant ‘The Apple tree. Enjoy watching the skiing, play ball or just relax in the beautiful surroundings.
INGATESTONE HALL
EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY
Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR
STEAM GALA
(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history.
8, 9, 10 JUNE
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
FEATURING:
2018
Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter until the end of September
2018
AVEL AY TR ALL D ur with eor Tickets Rov Gala
United States Army Transportation Company S160 Class, 5197 courtesy of the Churnet Valley Railway and the owners Batt Holden Limited Other visitors to be announced.
This is the first time the locomotive will be visiting the Epping Ongar Railway - this will be a very special event.
For tickets and prices visit
eorailway.co.uk Epping Ongar Railway
Annexe
So much fun, e! So close to hom
@eorailway
Adults - £7 Concessions £6 Children (over 5) - £3 Guided tours available for groups or school parties at other times by prior appointment.
The House and/or Gardens are also available for hire for public or private events such as weddings, concerts, exhibitions or corporate events
Tel. 01277 353010 01277 365200
Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk Website: www.ingatestonehall.com
CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 26-28 Apr The Fifteen Streets Set in 1910, this is the simple yet evocative story of one family’s fight for physical and moral survival in the poverty and squalor of the dockland slums of Tyneside. Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Rd, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 26-28 Apr Plastic A charged, poetic, unflinchingly honest new drama about time, memory and escape by BAFTA nominated Essex playwright Kenneth Emson. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 27-Apr My Dad Wrote A Porno What would you do if your dad wrote a dirty book? Ignore it? Not Jamie Morton. He reads it to the world. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 27 Apr - 26 May Priscilla, Queen of the Desert Disco royalty rolls into town for a glamorously feel-good musical by Stephan Elliott and Allan Scott. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk
21-Apr Tankus the Henge with support from Fjokra and Petneeds Combining wild showmanship and musical dexterity their sound incorporates rock, funk, blues, ska, roots and gypsy rhythms. Kingsway Hall, Harwich, CO12 3JR. www.tendringdc.gov.uk/leisure 23-Apr New Orleans & Liam Grundy An evening of music with Jazz meets blues and soul…with a little rock ‘n’ roll. Let the good times roll! Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 24 Apr G3: Joe Satriani, John Petrucci & Uli Jon Roth Since its 1996 debut, Satriani’s G3 tour has featured the world’s greatest guitarists and has become a consistent concert hall sell-out attraction. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 30-Apr Jon Boden & The Remnant Kings Former lead-singer of Bellowhead is heading out on the second leg of his “Afterglow” Album Launch Tour, bringing the reformed and extended Remnant Kings. Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS MUSIC 1 Apr - 28 Oct Bawden at Home 15-Apr Martine McCutcheon The Fry Art Gallery will be dedicatJoin Martine and her acoustic ing its full season in 2018 across band as she performs her hit songs the whole gallery to one important alongside tracks from her new exhibition: Edward Bawden, one album. West Cliff Theatre, Tower of Britain’s foremost artists and Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. designers of the 20th century. The 01255 433344 Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron www.westcliffclacton.co.uk Waldon, CB10 1BD. 01799 513779 20-Apr Lisa Stansfield Lisa’s contribution to British soul is undeniable with a string of hit singles including All Around The World, All Woman, The Real Thing and many award winning albums. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
www.fryartgallery.org 5 Apr - 13 May Ebb and Flow Herts Textile Arts present contemporary embroidery, quilting, woven tapestry, felting, and printed textiles inspired by Hertfordshire’s nature and waterways. Parndon Mill, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2HP. 01279 426042 www.parndonmill.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS 14-Apr Harwich Redoubt Fort Ghost Hunt Participate in Séances, Vigils, Table tilting, Glass moving, Ouija boards, EVP Experiments, and much more. Harwich Redoubt Fort, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3LT. 07092 981121www.ghosthuntevents.co.uk 16-Apr Colchester Through The Years Colchester’s award-winning Film Makers Club present an evening of films from its archive, in support of the Mayor’s Charity Fund. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH. 01206 713700. www.firstsite.uk 21-22 Apr Colchester Town & Country Fair Birds of prey, working dogs, children’s entertainment as well as arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. Lower Castle Park, Lower Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1YG. 01206 263088. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 22-Apr Pier to Pier Enjoy some sea air at the St Helena Hospice sponsored walk between Clacton & Walton Piers. Clacton Pier, 1 North Sea, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1QX. 01206 931468. www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/event/ pier-to-pier-2018 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 1-2 Apr Brentwood Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers from all over England selling a huge variety of affordable items. The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN. 01702 410171 15-Apr Antiques & Vintage Fair Expect to find stalls selling a range of antique and vintage items from jewellery, household, collectables, clothes and bric-a-brac. Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Maldon, CM9 6QA. 07519 276507 28-Apr Spring Stamp Essex Stamp Exhibition and Fair Dealers, displays, charity table, refreshments, parking. Organised by Basildon Philatelic Society. James Hornsby School Sports Centre, Laindon, Basildon, SS15 5NX. 07899 822881 www.stampessex.org.uk
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GW1040 EA Life - Spring Sale 240x168 AW.indd 1
21/03/2018 17:13
Suffolk
What’s on in Bury Written by Ruby Reed @rubyslifestyle
St Edmunds
T
he historic town of Bury St Edmunds has always been a place to keep busy. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch and shop or a cultural look around the famous abbey garden ruins. Bury is always booming from evening events at The Apex to seasonal fairs. Well, keeping to tradition the town will not be letting us down this year, as it again hosts the Bury St Edmunds festival from 18-27 May.
The 35th year of the festival is set to be a big one; taking place over 10 days, spread over 14 venues and hosting 59 events. From national musical treasures, Aled Jones and Jools Holland to the Grammy award-winning Ladysmith Black Mambazo to literary legend Benjamin Zephaniah and 80s chart toppers UB40, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
With so much on you may struggle to decide what to come and see! Read the full guide to what’s on at www.buryfestival.co.uk
There are a few other things taking place too…
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Euston Rural Pastimes Event A fun, family day out in the beautiful surroundings of Euston Park.
Sunday 10 June 2018
Tract ion engines
10am-5pm
Dog shows
BolddogsKangaroo Lings- Display Kid Team
Scur ry and Trials
Euston Park, Euston, IP24 2QH www.eustonruralpastimes.org.uk
Classic cars
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East Anglian Beer and Cider Festival, 18-21 April Now in its 27th year, the East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival commences on Wednesday 18 April and runs through to the Saturday at The Apex. There will be around 80 beers and 20 ciders and perries including a selection of East Anglian beers plus award winners from around the UK! A great excuse to meet friends and catch up. There will also be free soft drinks available for drivers - nice touch! There is a small admission charge of £3 (CAMRA members get in free). Don’t leave without your souvenir glass! The festival is run in support of local charities and raised over £7,000 in 2017. Open 12pm-11pm. Landlord of The Nutshell Pub. Below; St Edmundsbury Cathedral and Abbey Gardens, image credit both Visit Suffolk | www.visitsuffolk.com
Bury St Edmunds Whitsun Fayre, 27-28 May For two whole days on the last bank holiday weekend in May the town centre is transformed into a sea of colour with plant, flower and home produce stalls, gardening demonstrations and a popular man-made beach. Last year’s attractions also included the family favourite mini-farm giving children the chance to meet pygmy goats, miniature pigs, an alpaca, a miniature horse and lots more – make sure you head to Abbeygate Street! And don’t forget to watch a Punch & Judy show or ride the funfair!
Euston Rural Pastimes, 10 June Enjoy the great British countryside with this annual celebration of rural pursuits and agriculture featuring Traction and Stationary Engines, Classic and Vintage Cars, crafts and more. www.eustonruralpastimes.org.uk For more on what’s happening in BSE head to… www.visit-burystedmunds.co.uk/whats-on
Paws in the Park in Nowton Park, 20 May A friendly dog show and family day out at Nowton Park, this is definitely one not to miss! There will be arenas with dog judging, dog agility and gundog scurry, as well as food and drink stalls, children’s amusements, craft, dog accessories and dog groomers. Wander over to the dog show arena, where you can enter your dog into as many categories as you wish, including best puppy, handsomest dog and scruffiest mutt. Throughout the day, there will be agility demonstrations and the opportunity to have a go. This will be a great family outing. Last year, thousands of people and their four-legged friends helped to raise more than £9,000 for St Nicholas Hospice. I think I might just take my own dog - there’s a rosette with his name on it I’m sure!
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Immerse yourself in 1000 years of history at Suffolk’s Cathedral and take a guided trip up our magnificent Millennium Tower* Guided tours of the cathedral also available with our friendly and knowledgeable guides. Browse a huge range of gifts in our shop and refresh yourself in our welcoming Pilgrims’ Kitchen café which serves hot and cold food and drinks and has free Wi-Fi. Help us build history by laying a brick on our LEGO ® model. We’re building our cathedral out of 200,000 LEGO bricks and need your help! Donate £1 and lay a brick on the model. You are assured of a warm welcome at our services and events. For full details of services, events and news go to
www.stedscathedral.co.uk
The Cathedral Office, Abbey House, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LS
*tower tours only available on certain dates. Please check website for details.
Greene King Brewery Tours 7 days a week “Outstanding” “Absolutely fantastic!” “If you haven’t already done this tour… Why?” Visit our Beer Café open Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm
Call us 01284 714297 greenekingshop.co.uk Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1QT
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More than just a racecourse Article courtesy of Visit Suffolk (www.visitsuffolk.com)
W
hen you hear ‘let’s go to Newmarket’, do you immediately think ‘let’s go racing’? If your answer is yes, you could certainly be forgiven, however, there is a whole lot more to Newmarket than just the racecourse. We take a closer look at all this fascinating town has to offer. Read on for an itinerary that will turn a race day afternoon into a fascinating weekend insight into ‘The Sport of Kings’. Saturday 9am - Experience the Unique Ever since the 1600s when King Charles II selected Newmarket Heath as a perfect site to pursue his sporting interests, this most famous of areas has been used for the training of the thoroughbred racehorse. Fast forward to the present day and there are now over 80 trainers, and 2,500 thoroughbreds using these training grounds on a regular basis. There is no better way to experience this occurrence than with a tour from Discover Newmarket. As the tourism hub for the town, Discover Newmarket offers exclusive access to these legendary training grounds to observe world-class horses and trainers preparing for their next big race.
10am - Explore the Industry Following this, your expert Discover Newmarket guide can take you exclusively behind the scenes at one of these famous trainers’ yards to find out what it takes to create a champion. You will hear from the people responsible for taking care of these finely-tuned racing machines, learning all about the private lives of some of the world’s fastest horses.
11.30am - Discover the History The National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art has Newmarket’s history in its very foundations. It rolls three fantastic attractions into one: Palace House - a gallery housing one of the world’s finest collections of sporting art; The National Horseracing Museum fully updated and featuring state-of-the-art interactive exhibitions; and, The Rothschild Yard - the flagship yard for the Retraining of Racehorses charity which offers thoroughbreds a new lease of life after racing.
6pm - Taste the Flavours of Suffolk All the excitement of the races is hungry work, so it’s
Palace House | Visit Suffolk
time to settle down at one of Newmarket’s fantastic restaurants to reflect on the day’s action. Whether it’s a no-nonsense juicy burger or a fine dining experience, there is something to suit you in the town.
9pm - Enjoy the Comfort After a day jam-packed with entertainment, and belly jam-packed with delicious local fayre, there is only one thing for it: bed! You’ll be pleased to hear that there is a range of fantastic accommodation in Newmarket to suit all tastes and budgets. From simple comfort, to boutique charm, all the way up to opulent luxury, they all have one thing in common: a great night’s sleep!
Sunday 11am - Meet the Next Generation The National Stud is based in Newmarket and is the only thoroughbred stud farm in the UK to allow members of the public behind the scenes. This 90-minute tour explores the wonderful 500-acre site, taking in the rich history of this beautiful place.
Plan your Trip Whether you do all of the above, or just part of it, one thing’s for sure: Newmarket offers a huge amount more than just an afternoon at the races. Start planning your trip at Discover Newmarket www.discovernewmarket.co.uk or call 0344 748 9200.
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What’s on: Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 3-7 Apr Son of a Preacher Man Welcome to the Preacher Man, the swinging 1960s Soho joint where the kids danced the night away and dared to dream of love, while The Preacher Man himself dispensed advice to cure the loneliest of hearts. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 https://apps.ipswich.gov.uk 6-Apr Nicholas Parsons: Laugh a Minute The star of Radio 4’s Just a Minute demonstrates his talent as a solo performer in this anecdotal show based on his personal and professional life. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 7-Apr A Calvacade of Wonders This new production embraces all the excitement and nostalgia of entertainment in the Victorian era. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 8-Apr Bolshoi: Giselle A chilling yet luminous ballet that continues to captivate audiences after 150 years at the Bolshoi. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 10-Apr We are Lions, Mr Manager! A remarkable story of Jayaben Desai the inspirational leader of the 1976-78 Grunwick Strike. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 11-Apr Beauty & The Beast: Easter Panto Don’t miss another fun-filled Easter pantomime from the same team behind The Wizard of Oz, Robin Hood and Peter Pan. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk
11-Apr Brainiac Live Strap on your safety goggles boys and girls. Due to popular demand Science’s most volatile live show returns with a vengeance. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 13-Apr The Full Bronte Literary Caberet A delight for literature aficionados and theatre fans alike – and of course every devoted Brontëphile! Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 13-Apr Lee Hurst: Mucking About In his new show, Lee will be exploring the relationship between... No he won’t, he’ll be leaving that old twaddle to comedians at the Edinburgh Festival. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 15-Apr An Audience with Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse The Strictly Come Dancing pros will perform a dance showcase spectacular designed to dazzle and wow you. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk 17-21 Apr Beautiful: The Carol King Musical The Olivier and Tony Award®-winning West End and Broadway show is coming to Ipswich as part of its first ever UK tour! Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 18-Apr The War of the Worlds The critically-acclaimed The Pantaloons invade the stage in this funny yet faithful adaptation of H G Wells sci-fi classic. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 18-21 Apr Hay Fever London Acacdemy of Music and
Dramatic Art grace the stage with a new adaptation of Noel Coward’s 1920s comedy. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 20-Apr Dancing at Lughnasa Five sisters live out their lives in rural Ireland in the 1930s, hoping beyond hope for events which will free them from their domestic solitude. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 23-28 Apr Flashdance ‘Flashdance’ is an inspiring musical about the power of holding onto your dreams and love against all the odds. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 24-25 Apr Mountains: The Dreams of Lily Kwok This evocative new play tells the extraordinary story of the women behind the famous Manchester restaurant Sweet Mandarin. Based on Helen Tse’s bestselling family memoir. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 26-28 Apr The Crucible Arthur Miller’s classic portray of hysteria, fear and revenge in an isolated community, continues to shock and brings resonance to our modern world. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 27-Apr Crooners A splendiferous injection of British comedy. Tongue firmly in cheek. And an outrageous injection of Big Band Swing. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk MUSIC 5-Apr Islands in the Stream Enjoy a superb score and supreme musicianship as we bring the house down with the ultimate tribute to two country music legends. Marina
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Theatre, The Marina Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 6-Apr A Tribute to George Michael Relive the passion, the flare, and the unique sensitivity of George Michael in this incredible concert sensation. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 12-Apr Beth Hart Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Beth Hart and her band will embark on a 14-date UK & Irish tour in April and May. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 12-Apr Georgie Fame In this very special and intimate evening, audiences will be treated to Georgie’s hits, alongside music from the artists that have influenced him all interspersed with personal stories and anecdotes from his incredible career. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 14-Apr Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys Featuring tributes to Jeff Lynne, George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison and Bob Dylan. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 14-Apr Bowie Experience A must see for all Bowie fans, the latest production promises an unforgettable journey of sound and vision, featuring all the hits from A to Ziggy. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 14-Apr Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri For almost two decades, Kiki and Carmelo have been touring their spellbinding acoustic live show across the UK and Europe. Join Kiki and Carmelo for an acoustic journey of stories and song this April. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org
16-Apr Feast of Fiddles A live music entertainment like no other, on the circuit which is guaranteed to be enjoyed by even the most doubting of friends dragged along! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 23-Apr The Fureys As part of their 40th Anniversary tour, Irish Legends the Fureys return for another great night of Music, songs and stories. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 26-Apr The Remi Harris Trio Playing an eclectic mix of original compositions, jazz standards and new arrangements of music from Django Reinhardt, Jimi Hendrix, Wes Montgomery, Charlie Parker, Peter Green and more. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 28-Apr Prometheus Orchestra: 10th Anniversary Concert A special concert to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the founding of Prometheus Orchestra.Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, Suffolk, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110. www.snapemaltings.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 2-27 Apr Jacqueline Croft This exhibition contains a new body of work influenced by walks, stories and chats on a daily walk round Bungay Common, with Otto the dog. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 5-11 Apr Anthony Moorhouse: From The Corner of My Eye This exhibition takes us on a journey through the four elements and four seasons to see those things you thought you saw from the corner of your eye, (or maybe you didn’t). Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, Suffolk, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk 12-18 Apr Tidemarks - Ceramics by Don Hawkley With references to visual and physical textures created by the interaction of
sky, sea and shore Don has produced a new body of work that evokes his observations of Suffolk’s coast.Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk 22-Apr Ickworth’s great Edwardian rebinding project - vandalism or restoration? Come and look at some of her bindings and understand the decision making that shaped the look of the collection we see today. Ickworth House, Park and Gardens, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth SPECIAL EVENTS 5, 10 & 25 Apr Tea Walks Enjoy a themed guided walk around Ipswich followed with refreshments and a relaxed chat with your guide. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 7-Apr An Easter Adventure Hunt around a colourful, eye-popping Easterland, meeting characters from stories on your way, and getting clues to where and how to gather chocolate eggs around the castle. Bungay Castle, Bungay. www.fishertheatre.org 7-8 Apr Framlingham Country Show & The Festival of Dog From horses & dogs to motorbike stunts and everything inbetween! Framlingham College, College Road, Suffolk, IP13 9EY. 01728 685302 www.framlinghamcountryshow.co.uk 18-21 Apr East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival Enjoy a selection of East Anglian beers plus award winners from around the UK. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 7-Apr The Halesworth Brocante One of the best antique and vintage markets in the region attracting sellers and buyers from Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. The Old Print Works, Halesworth, Suffolk, IP19 8AP. 01986 948546
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The
Judith Fox
Ballet School
The Judith Fox Ballet School likes to introduce a love of ballet to as many children as possible. The emphasis being on enjoyment, but with a serious side for those who would like to go on to vocational school and a possible career in the dance world. Students have been accepted in top schools and gone on to a professional career. Classes take place throughout the week, with the youngest on Saturday mornings when full of beans.
Adult classes (good excercise) in ballet, tap, street. The Foxes, Tuttles Lane East, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0EW
Tel: 01953 607235 Judith Fox 1/4.indd 1
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Norfolk
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Life in a Fine County
Doggy menu at The Orange Tree
W
ith the start of British Summer Time it’s time to get out and about and where better to start than with a family Sunday walk finished with a trip to the pub? The trouble is with these kinds of trips is that we often want to take the whole family, including the family dog. So, in celebration of National Pet Month, here’s a quick guide to some of the friendliest dog-friendly pubs in Norfolk…
Along the coast: The Golden Fleece 18 The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AH. 01328 710650 | www.goldenfleecewells.co.uk Enjoy a walk on the stunning beach at Wells then recharge at this great pub on the Quay. Dogs are welcome both inside and out. Plus there are free dog treats available at the bar! The Orange Tree High Street, Thornham, PE36 6LY. 01485 512213 | www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk Enjoy a stroll to Brancaster Bay, Thornham Beach or even nearby Brancaster Staithe harbour. Dog friendly, both inside and out, this stylish gastropub even has a doggy menu at the bar!
Inland: The Black Lion Hotel Friday Market Place, Little Walsingham, NR22 6DB.
01328 820235 | www.blacklionhotelnorfolk.co.uk Try out the Walsingham circular walk for an excuse to see the wonderful Walsingham Priory. Dogs are welcomed with water bowls and treats either whilst you pop in for food or drink, or for an overnight stay. The Loddon Swan 23 Church Close, Loddon, Norwich, NR14 6LX. 01508 528039 | www.theloddonswan.co.uk After a relaxing walk along the picturesque River Chet, this is the perfect place to stop off for food or a drink. Dogs are welcomed in the bar area or outside in the courtyard garden with a fuss, water and treats.
City life: The Bicycle Shop 17 St. Benedicts Street, NR2 4PE. 01603 625777 | www.thebicycleshopcafe.com With their own resident pooches that can frequently be found relaxing under a table, The Bicycle Shop is very welcoming to dogs and humans alike! The Sir Garnet 36 Market Place, NR2 1RD. 01603 615892 | www.thesirgarnet.co.uk Located next to the market, this is great place to pop in for food and drink whilst you’re in the city. Completely dogfriendly both inside and out. Keep up to date with events in Norfolk in 2018, and join our new Facebook group: What’s On in Norfolk with Eastlife: www.facebook.com/groups/whatsonnorfolk
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*Terms and Conditions apply. Promotional Dates 22.03.18-13.04.18. Sold as an agent for Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply. Exclusions and Radius Restrictions Apply. Prices correct at time of print but can be subject to change. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2018. E&OE March 2018. Saving compared to a higher price charged for 7 days in the last six months unless otherwise stated. Promotion available on Selected Siemens extraKlasse and Bosch freestanding models only.
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ADVERTORIAL
STYLISH STOVES TO INSPIRE YOUR HOME
A
t Alcosa you’ll find the finest fireplaces, woodburning and multifuel stoves, and fireplace accessories in this region. We have a fine showroom, with over 60 exquisite wood stoves, gas fires and cookers to view, many set in live displays. Our distinctive range of products will fuel your imagination. This diverse collection includes the impressive Clearview wood burning stoves, Harrie Leenders ceiling mounted and rotatable stoves, Piazzetta double and triple sided stoves and the elegant Rais range. We also have a large selection of Gazco gas and electric fires and stoves. We are based in the historic market town of Wymondham in Norfolk. Our Showroom is just off the A11 and we have a large free car park.
01953 602482
www.alcosa.co.uk STYLISH STOVES Drive, Norfolk, NR18 0WZ T O I N S 1P Penfold IRE YO U R Wymondham HOME
5 Reasons to Visit
Wymondham
Written by Liz Mattock
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ymondham is the perfect example of an attractive historic Norfolk market town. The town boasts original architecture on its grand buildings in the town centre dating back to the 11th century, a bustling range of shops and the magnificent Wymondham Abbey with its breath-taking twin towers keeping watch over the town. The Lemon Tree Tea Shop is the perfect place to start your visit to the town or for a mid-afternoon break from exploring. Order from a vast hot drinks menu or in the afternoon indulge in a cream tea with jam and clotted cream. Wymondham has a magnificent, twin tower Abbey, founded in 1107 by William d’Albini and does a grand job of looking like the protector of the town. With beautiful stained glass windows and gilded screen dedicated to the young men who lost their lives in WWI, this is a must see on your visit to the town.
16th century windows. The Green Dragon, as well as The Heart Pub, serve a range of lovely pub grub so you can get your energy back to explore the rest of the sights and sounds the town has to offer. If you are stopping by in July why not book tickets for one of the most spectacular sights and sounds in Wymondham – the Wymondham Symphony Orchestra performing at Wymondham Abbey. Full event details can be found at www.wymondhamsymphonyorchestra.org.uk. Tickets are priced at £12.
Train travel is a real theme running through the town. Steam your way through the Norfolk countryside on the Mid Norfolk Railway. Start your journey at Dereham and travel into Wymondham. The trainline hosts a number of vintage inspired events throughout the year, the next being Bus and Coach Day on 13 May. For a bite to eat head to the Station Bistro, a station themed restaurant with overhead storage racks on the walls and carriage lights giving the place an oldie worldly feel. Visit the oldest inn in Wymondham, The Green Dragon, dating back to the 15th century and serving cask ales, local brews and well known names. An ideal spot to stop for some liquid refreshment whilst taking in all the sights Wymondham has to offer. The pub even has its original
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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from
10.00am
The place to visit Group bookings call: 01493 369477 or email: mail@thrigbyhall.co.uk
THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH
N R 29 3DR 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk
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What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5-6 Apr Mark Steel: Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be Alright The star of Radio 4’s Mark Steel’s in Town, is back on the road with a new show, guaranteed to make the world seem even more mental than it is. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 5-7 Apr Cirque Beserk! Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this international troupe includes over thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers and daredevil stuntmen. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
participation! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 13-14 Apr The Government Inspector A pacy, classic comedy brought to you in this new version by the oldest members of our young people’s drama workshops. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 15-Apr The Wind in the Willows Join in on an exciting adventure along the riverbank with a brand new staging of Kenneth Grahame’s family classic. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk
6-14 Apr Bugsy Malone Set in prohibition New York, Bugsy Malone tells the story of rival gang leaders Fat Sam And Dandy Dan in their fight for turf. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
17-Apr The Circus of Horrors This spectacular features an amazing amalgamation of bizarre and fantastic circus acts all woven into a sensational shock/horror story and the darkest of magic. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
11-Apr How (not) to live in Suburbia A few years ago in the middle of a sh*tstorm of life events, single mother, artist & proud Londoner Annie Siddons found herself living in suburbia by accident. This show attempts to describe what happened next. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk
17-21 Apr Cilla A spectacular and heart-warming musical adaptation of the critically acclaimed ITV mini-series based on the early life of Cilla Black, by BAFTA award winner, Jeff Pope. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
11-14 Apr Jane Eyre The Musical This beloved tale of secrets and the lies that secrets create reminds us what it is to fall deeply, truly and completely in love. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 12-Apr Beauty & The Beast Don’t miss the spellbinding pantomime for Easter. With a star cast, impressive music, energetic dance routines as well as plenty of jokes, slapstick and heaps of audience
18-Apr Hayley Matthews: Home Solo An intimate performance that weaves together contemporary dance with spoken word and original live music and song, in an epic tale of feeling at home in your own skin. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 20-Apr Joe Lycett Pop in and see Joe Lycett on his brand new stand-up tour, where he’ll be sharing jokes, paintings and some
of the pathetic internet trolling he’s been up to recently. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 20-28 Apr Habeas and Corpus A farcical comedy of very ill-manners. Mismanaged lust, mistaken identity and plenty of dropped trousers sets up the dramatic equivalent of a saucy seaside postcard. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 23-28 Apr Art Three men. Three friends. One white painting. Art is the winner of Olivier, Tony, Moliere & every other major world theatre award. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 25-Apr Audience with Ian Waite & Oti Mabuse Ian and Oti will deliver a night of Latin and Ballroom numbers with high intensity. The Strictly Come Dancing pros will perform a dance showcase spectacular designed to dazzle and wow you. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 28-Apr fEAST Theatre: Salt An adaptation of Jeremy Page’s novel, Salt. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com MUSIC 6-Apr Hackney Colliery Band A truly brilliant live act who have worked with the likes of Amy Winehouse and Jamie Cullum. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 7-Apr Blake - The Anniversary Tour Brit-Award-winning vocal trio Blake return in 2018 with a special UK tour, celebrating 10 years together. Mad-
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Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre
w w w. br e s s i n g h a m . c o . u k
2018 SEASON NOW OPEN check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900 for further details Find us on Facebook & Twitter just search for Bressingham Steam
Advertorial
Bressingham Steam Museum
2018 EVENTS
W
elcome to the home of Bressingham Steam & Gardens, generations of fun for everyone since 1961. Take a trip on one of the four railways at Bressingham, the collection of working locomotives will take you round our magnificent gardens and woodland, or ride on the steam Gallopers.
Everything Goes Easter Monday - Mon 2 Apr 2018 We will aim to operate as many available steam engines within the Bressingham collection as possible!
A trip to the locomotive sheds brings the power and the glory of mighty steam engineering up close. The National Dad’s Army collection lets you wander through Walmington-on-Sea looking at original props and vehicles from the series, you’d be a stupid boy to miss it! Whether your passion is Gardens, Steam, Exhibits, Rides or even a mixture of them all, we are confident that Bressingham has something for all.
The Gruffalo Visits Sun 1 Apr 2018 The Gruffalo will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day. Included in the standard unlimited train rides price.
Heritage Steam Gala Sat 5 May 2018 to Mon 7 May 2018
A celebration of steam at Bressingham Steam Museum. featuring guest 2ft gauge locomotives with 2ft railway passengers trains and freight trains. Traction engine gathering. Miniature traction engines. Standard gauge railway rides in a restored LMS brake van. Plus all of the Bressingham Steamable collection will be in operation
For more info and more events got to www.bressingham.co.uk eastlife.co.uk
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SANDRINGHAM
Flower Show WEDNESDAY 25TH JULY 2018 9.00am - 5.00pm
Adults £10 - Children under 16 Free Admission (Entrance to Sandringham Grounds, Church & Museum included)
Horticultural Marquees & Trade Stands Show Gardens Gardener’s Question Time Children’s Entertainments; Refreshments; Music from the Bandstand In association with the Eastern Daily Press
Mid-Norfolk Railway The Dereham to Wymondham Abbey Line
Large & Small Groups Welcome Discounts available for parties of 10 or more Free Coach Parking at Dereham Station On-board catering or meals at Dereham Station available if booked in advance Free meal for driver
Complete Package Tour
to include Train Trip, Lunch and one of the following: Gooderstone Water Gardens, near Swaffham Gressenhall Workhouse Museum, near Dereham Wells & Walsingham Light Railway The Market Town of Wymondham and Wymondham Abbey Broads Tours, Wroxham
For more details and to book, please email marketing@mnr.org.uk or telephone 07585 855350 / 01362 667814
www.sandringhamflowershow.org.uk Seahorse StudioAdforUNN1#AW:Layout 1 09/05/2017 11:37 Page 1
1 Albert Street, Holt NR25 6HX
01263 478020 www.seahorsestudio.co.uk seahorsestudio@icloud.com
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dermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 14-Apr The South When The Beautiful South split in 2007, some members of the band didn’t feel ready to hang up their microphones or instruments just yet… The Waterfront, King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QH. 01603 508050 www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk 18-Apr The RAF Big Band Concert Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the formation of the Royal Air Force. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 19-Apr The Dead South Their debut album ‘Good Company’ is a perfect fit to the genres Folk, Neo-Folk and Bluegrass-Folk or even alternative Country with refreshing tunes to it. OPEN, 20 Bank Plain, Norwich, NR2 4SF. 01603 763111. opennorwich.org.uk 21-Apr Baghdaddies An exhilarating cocktail of Balkan melodies, ska and latin grooves and sizzling brass played with furious energy and theatrical humour. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 22-Apr Sheridan in Concert BAFTA and Olivier Award winning performer Sheridan Smith visits Norwich on her debut UK tour, following the release of her brand new self-titled album, Sheridan. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 25-Apr Barenaked Ladies Multiple JUNO Award winning world renowned rockers Barenaked Ladies are playing Norwich this April! The LCR, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 508050. www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk 26-Apr Marty O’Reilly & The Old Soul Orchestra It’s blues but not blues, folk but not folk, soulful but not soul. Marty’s voice is beautiful and distinctive, his
lyrics stark yet lush over gritty electrified guitar. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk
Studios in May and June and see work by artists from every corner of Norfolk. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
28-Apr 21st Century Choral Music A wonderful programme of 21st century choral music celebrating the theme of Light. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
SPECIAL EVENTS 10-Apr Spring Fling Explore the Norfolk Showground on the back of a tractor, sit in the driving seat of a combine harvester, watch sheep dog demonstrations & much more! Royal Norfolk Showground, Norwich, NR5 0TT springfling.rnaa.org.uk
28-Apr The Prince Experience UK The nine piece Prince Experience comprises some amazing musicians who all have one thing in common they are huge fans of the music. This love is clear for all to see and hear when the band take to the stage. The Waterfront, King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QH. 01603 508050 www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk 29-Apr Martine McCutcheon Martine has co-written most of the songs on the new album ‘Lost and Found’ with her husband, the multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Jack McManus, and she has never sounded better! Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 11-15 Apr The Spring Art Show There will be an eclectic mix of both 2D and 3D work on show in a plethora of mediums and styles. There will also be a prints and cards on offer so there will be something to suit everyone’s taste and wallet. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 22 Apr 18 - 22 Apr 22 Antony Gormley: 3x Another Time Three life-sized cast iron sculptures selected from Gormley’s ongoing series Another Time (1999–2013) will be placed around the university at different focal points and sightlines, including roof level. SCVA, UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk 30 Apr - 3 May NNF Open Studios Taster Exhibition Get a taste of what’s in store during this year’s Norfolk & Norwich Open
21-22 Apr Model ArmourFest Calling all model enthusiasts! See Model Military Vehicles, Model Battleships & more! Norfolk Tank Museum, Forncett St Peter, Norfolk, NR16 1 HZ. 07703 337714 www.norfolktankmuseum.co.uk 28-29 Apr WOW Norwich 2018 Listen to and participate in talks, debates, music, activism, comedy, workshops, mentoring, pop ups and major concerts, all celebrating women and girls! Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 1-2 Apr Antiques & Collectors Fair Over 400 inside and outside stands selling a wide range of antiques and collectables. Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Costessey, NR5 0TT norfolkshowground.rnaa.org.uk 21-Apr Norwich Vinyl Record Fair The largest pop up Vinyl Record Fair in Eastern Britain. In addition to Vinyl, CDs, books and memorabilia will be on sale. St Andrews Hall, St Andrews Hall, St Andrews Street, Norwich, NR2 4AD. 01603 436129 28-Apr Fleamarket Offering a wide and varied range of collectables this is an Antique and Collectors Fair that is not to be missed! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
More events at www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk
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A STATE OF THE ART HAIR SALON IN BEDFORD Maria Grazia Salon at 34 Castle Lane Bedford is a town centre oasis that takes endeavours to give you an experience – in a space that channels creativity within a calming environment. Owned by Maria Grazia, with an extensive career as a colour specialist behind her and also as a Technical Educator working as a colour consultant for both Schwarzkopf and Sassoon, Maria and her team are perfectly trained to give you the best hair experience. The Salon offers a full range of services including Balayage, Red Carpet ‘Blow Out’ and Colour transformations to name but a few.
To book an appointment or a chat, you can find Maria and her team at 34 Castle Lane Bedford, MK40 3US or by calling 01234 345000 - www.mariagraziasalon.co.uk /MariaGraziaSalon -
Relaxed Remarkable Refreshing
See the salon on
@mariagraziasalon
The Jaffa Orchard is a friendly community café just off Castle Road in Pembroke Street.
The Bedford Park Café
Open 9am-5pm every day for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Tea. Visit our m ‘Kiosk at icrocafe in Russellthe Park’ Bedford’s Park, on stun embankmen ning t.
We serve honest homemade food, including jacket potatoes, sandwiches, fry-ups and we are especially proud of our daily specials, which consist of a different homemade soup, a main course and a dessert. Besides the main ground floor restaurant we have a ground floor lobby which is child friendly and we also have seating upstairs for larger groups & those that want a quieter atmosphere.
www.pavilion.attheparkbedford.co.uk
All our cakes are homemade and delicious with a cup of tea or coffee. We also offer very scrumptious afternoon teas, consisting of cakes, scones, jam & clotted cream & a selection of sandwiches. If you are looking for an original item we display & sell crafts, artwork & greeting cards for all occasions by local craftsmen & women, along with some homemade preserves & chutneys. The proceeds from many of these products go to support different charities.
t 01234 351104
Our opening times are Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm
Visit us online at e bedfordpavilion@gmail.com PavilionatthePark @BedfordPavilion
51A Pembroke Street, Bedford MK40 3RH Tel: 01234 290295 Email: jaffaorchard@gmail.com
attheparkbedford
www.thejaffaorchard.org.uk
Beds, Bucks & Herts
Bedford
Hotspots!
Left; The Embankment. Above; Bedford Park Proms
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tree lined embankment, shops galore, museums and great outdoor spaces; Bedford ticks all the boxes for a spring day out or overnight getaway. Here’s how to make the most of the warmer weather that we really hope is on its way soon… The great outdoors A stroll along the embankment is a great way to take in the sights of Bedford, but on a sunny day or for something a little different hop aboard a John Bunyan Boat. There are a number of cruises available including public trips on Thursdays and Sundays, and cruises including afternoon tea or a fish and chip supper from April. You can start your journey on the water at Priory Marina, Sovereign’s Quay and Newnham Steps. If you have little ones in tow, head to Bedford Park or Russell Park, which both feature children’s outdoor play areas and sporting facilities. It may be a little early in the year for picnics in the park so stop by the Kiosk at the Park, in Russell Park for a cup of tea and bite to eat.
Shopping & entertainment You certainly won’t be bored in Bedford. The Harpur Centre and The Arcade have plenty of stores to satisfy keen shoppers, while the trendy Castle Quarter features a number of independent stores and restaurants. It
was recently listed in the Sunday Times top places to live in the UK! Among the shops and eateries here, you’ll find a number of salons, ideal if you want a pamper before a night on the town. The latest addition to the beauty scene is Maria Grazia on Castle Lane. The salon offers a full range of services including balayage, Red Carpet ‘Blow Out’ and colour transformations to name a few, all available in a beautifully designed and relaxing space. To book an appointment call 01234 345000. For entertainment, visit the newly opened Riverside Bedford complex, which features a cinema and number of chained restaurants dotted along the riverbank.
Food and drink Dotted throughout the town you’ll find cafes, restaurants and bars serving up a range of cuisine. For everything under one roof, restaurant, bar and a room, make the The Embankment your base. The timber framed building overlooks the river and is a hub for entertainment. Owned by The Peach Pub Company, it has recently risen to number 43 in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies list 2018.
What’s on This summer the Bedford Park Concerts return from 3-5 August. The legendary Billy Ocean will be taking to the stage on Friday 3 August supported by soul singer Jaki Graham and ASWAD, a fantastic reggae band. Tickets cost from £35. On Sunday 5 August, the town will be alive with the sounds of the famous Bedford Park Proms. This year’s soloist is English soprano Lesley Garrett, among many other talented artists. The concert will conclude with rousing favourites for flag-waving and singing along, including Rule Britannia and Land of Hope & Glory, as thousands of lasers and fireworks light up the sky. Tickets prices from £33.50 on sale at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk/bedford-proms
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Four things to do in
Woburn
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oburn is one of those wonderful Georgian villages that has managed to keep its historic charm while becoming a thriving destination for residents and visitors. Plan a visit full of art, culture and food!
The revitalised space also includes a refurbished adjoining casual dining space perfect for light snacks and afternoon tea renamed ‘The Repton Room’ in honour of the first landscape gardener Humphry Repton. Look out for more details and images in our next issue!
Humphry Repton exhibition at Woburn Abbey & Gardens
Paris House
Last month Alan Titchmarsh opened a new exhibition at Woburn Abbey & Gardens, which celebrates the bicentenary of Britain’s first landscape gardener, Humphry Repton. Open to the public between 23 March and 28 October 2018, the exhibition explores the fascinating relationship between Repton and Woburn. On public display for visitors to see for the first time will be his most elaborate and comprehensive ‘Red Book’, his famous presentation document of proposed designs. His Red Book for Woburn was commissioned in 1804 and illustrates his innovative plans for the Pleasure Grounds and Park, many of which were subsequently realised by the 6th Duke of Bedford. In addition, the exhibition will give guests the opportunity to discover Repton’s other works for the family including at the picturesque Devon estate of Endsleigh, Oakley House and Russell Square in London. Never before seen unexecuted designs will feature alongside works of art and archival treasures, which bring to life the creative legacy of Repton. There will also be Repton-related family trails, activities and events throughout the year. To find out more, visit www.woburnabbey.co.uk/Repton
Woburn is a little foodie haven. You’ll find a number of tearooms and fine dining opportunities but for a special treat book a table at Paris House. Set among stunning parkland, drive through the gated entrance up to the historic house passing herds of deer as you go. The restaurant underwent a refurbishment last year and boasted a Michelin star from 2011-2016. It has also won a number of awards including The Food Awards of England ‘Restaurant of the Year – East’ in 2017. Try the six course lunch tasting menu or eight and 10 evening tasting menu.
Olivier’s at The Woburn Hotel Olivier’s, the award-winning 2 AA rosette restaurant, at The Woburn Hotel in Bedfordshire has reopened following an extensive refurbishment. Now open to the public, the restaurant boasts new features including a stylish contemporary design.
Humphry Repton exhibition launch
Farmers Market If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the third Sunday of the month, make sure you visit the Woburn Farmers’ Market held on the Pitchings in the village centre. Here you will be able to buy local foods and products directly from farmers and experience the long-standing market tradition of the village. www.woburnvillage.co.uk
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david james kitchens Unit 3 Flaxbourne Farm, Salford Road, Aspley Guise. MK17 8HZ Tel. 07795 187570 Web: www.davidjkitchens.co.uk davidjkitchens Email: davidjameskitchens@gmail.com
luxury handcrafted kitchens and bespoke room solutions
Contemporary and traditional kitchen designs, all handmade with an outstanding finish. Offering a quality service and solutions tailored to each individual client, we come to your property to create a design that compliments your home and optimises the space available. All work is carried out by our own dedicated internal fitting team, without the use of sub-contractors. David James Kitchens also offer bespoke solutions for bedrooms, studies and entertainment units.
View our online portfolio for inspiration...
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What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5-6 Apr The Magic of Hollywood: Pasha Kovalev & Anya Lights, Camera....Ballroom! Pasha Kovalev winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2014, returns with his new show. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 6-Apr Giant Horribly honest clowns and questionable cabaret acts ignite the stage with live music, puppetry, poetry & movement. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 7-Apr Stephen Bailey: Can’t Think Straight Meet your new potty-mouthed best friend, who supported Katherine Ryan and Jenny Éclair on their recent sell-out UK tours. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org
critically acclaimed hit ITV television series by Bafta Award winner, Jeff Pope. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 12-Apr Richard Herring: Oh Frig I’m 50 Following on from Oh F***, I’m 40!, this is the second (and let’s face it, almost certainly penultimate) instalment in Herring’s once-a-decade examination of ageing. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 13-Apr Morgan & West: Time Travelling Magicians No future is left unseen and no timeline left unaltered as these temporal tricksters present a conjuring spectacular to the audiences of the modern day. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
8-Apr Beyond the Barricade An exciting concert portrayal of the greatest songs in musical theatre, all performed totally live! The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk
13-Apr Shappi Khorsandi Shappi presents England’s unsung heroine, Emma Hamilton. Yes, she occasionally danced on tables naked to get ahead in life, but who hasn’t? Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com
9-14 Apr Hairspray The smash hit musical comedy is coming to venues across the UK with a production guaranteed to have you dancing the night away! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com
14-Apr We are The Lions, Mr Manager The remarkable story of Jayaben Desai, the inspirational leader of the 1976-78 Grunwick Film Processing Factory Strike. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org
10-Apr Beauty & The Beast A star cast, impressive music, energetic dance routines, plenty of jokes, slapstick and heaps of audience participation! Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk
17-Apr Macbeth Flabbergast Theatre present a visceral, vibrant and unique version of Shakespeare’s classic. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
10-14 Apr Cilla The Musical The new spectacular and heart-warming musical adaptation of the
18-Apr Robert Temple: The Hypnotist Join leading hypnotist Robert Temple on a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud and
hysterical ride to the centre of your imagination! This is YOUR chance to become the star of this unforgettable show. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 20-Apr Rich Hall’s Hoedown There’s stand-up, improvised ballads, cracking good musicianship, and ultimately a hilarious, foot-stomping good time to be had by all. Even if you don’t own a hoe. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 20-Apr Katie Piper: What is in my Head Katie is opening her own diaries, photo albums and personal memories in this most intimate and revealing talk about her life. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 20-Apr Count Arthur Strong is Alive & Unplugged If you only buy one ticket for something this year make sure it’s this and bring someone with you. You won’t be disappointed by him (me). The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 23-28 Apr The Play That Goes Wrong Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off in this multi award-winning smash hit comedy, now playing on Broadway and enjoying its 4th year in the West End. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 24-28 Apr Brighton Rock Pilot Theatre and York Theatre Royal are proud to bring the dark underworld of Graham Greene’s classic novel Brighton Rock to the stage in this new adaptation by acclaimed writer Bryony Lavery. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
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26-Apr The Singular Exploits of Sherlock Holmes Acclaimed actor Jonathan Goodwin plays the great sleuth, recounting highlights of his crime-busting career. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 26-28 Apr Oliver The Tony and Olivier Award-winning show is one of the few musicals to win an Academy Award for Best Picture. Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL8 6BX. 0300 3039 620 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 27-Apr Dara O’Briain Catch one of the most charismatic, intelligent, fast-talking and downright funny live performers working today in this brand new show for 2018. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 30-Apr Henning Wehn Join the German Comedy Ambassador for Teutonic jolliness at its best. Expect some old favourites and plenty of new ideas. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk MUSIC 6-Apr The Elvis Years A top line-up of actor-musicians, multiple costume changes and nostalgic film footage, charting the musical and emotional highs and lows of Elvis. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 11-Apr Martine McCutcheon Martine has co-written most of the songs on the new album ‘Lost and Found’, and she has never sounded better! Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP, 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 14-Apr Joe McElderry After releasing his 5th album Saturday Night at the Movies with a successful tour in the Summer 2017 and with numerous appearances at
The London Palladium - Joe is now embarking on his own concert tour. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 18-Apr That’s All Folk: Calan Fiddles, guitar, accordion, bagpipes and step dancing, breathing fire into the old traditions with infectious rhythms and high voltage routines. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 24-Apr Mayor’s Charity Concert Please join the Mayor and Consort, Councillor Pam Stuart and Mr Tony Turner for an evening of music, song and dance. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 28-Apr Watford Philharmonic Society An evening of wonderful music, including Beethoven’s great Ode to Joy and Dvorak’s delightfully joyous Mass. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 28-Apr Shalamar Howard Hewett, Jeffrey Daniel and Carolyn Griffey bring their award-winning Friends - 35th Anniversary Tour to a venue near you. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 7-14 Apr Patricia Ellis, Keith Wells and Sue Wookey One Week Show Three of the members take to the gallery for one week to exhibit their latest work. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 7 Apr - 6 May Hertford Art Trail Visit 25 pop-up art exhibition venues around Hertford. Artwork ranges from sculptures to textile, oil to watercolour. Hertford Town Centre, Hertford, SG14 1HR. 01992 552885. www.hertford.gov.uk
27-Apr Spotlight on Joshua Reynolds Discover how Joshua Reynolds transformed portraiture. Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH 01296 820414 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events SPECIAL EVENTS 1-2 Apr Easter Medieval Jousting See the costumed knights on majestic warhorses galloping at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 01206 263088 www.knebworthhouse.com 6 Apr - 6 May Hertford Arts Festival The annual Hertford Arts Festival will showcase and promote the local arts. Hertford Town Centre, Hertford, SG14 1PX. 01992 552885 www.hertford.gov.uk 7-Apr Bedford Who Charity Con4 A welcoming, fun and friendly day for Doctor Who fans, celebrating 54 years of the Time Lord. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 14-Apr Artisan Food Market Offering the very best in quality, fresh, seasonal produce all locally sourced. Waddesdon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH. 01296 820414 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events 21-Apr Hertford Street Arts Festival From street theatre to workshops, live performances and pavement art. Running 12-4pm. Hertford Town Centre, Hertford, SG14 1PX. 01992 552885. www.hertford.gov.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 15-Apr Lavender Lane Antique, Vintage & Retro Fair 20 sellers selling a wide range of Antique, retro, vintage and upcyled painted furniture. Watermead Village Hall, Alyesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 0FX. 07527 283667 15-Apr Biggleswade Antiques & Vintage Fair If you love antiques and vintage and are looking for something unique and beautiful, then visit this Fair! The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH
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What’s on near you… Spring is in the air and things are finally beginning to warm up across the region! From exhibitions to gigs, shows and fairs there’s bound to be something that can put a smile on your face this April! Take a look at our full listings online or join one of our Facebook event groups – just pop over to www.facebook.com/eastlifemag and click on ‘Groups’.
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