Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust A WILDER NOTTS
A Showcase Of Art & Craft OPEN STUDIOS
The Battle Of Stoke Field WAR OF THE ROSES
Bromley House Library A LITERARY OASIS
Trends, Treasures, Décor & More... THE ‘HOME’ EDITION
Small Garden, Big Impact OUTDOOR SPACES
Sally Outram ROTHER VALLEY RAMBLE
Transition From Spring To Summer FABULOUS FASHION
Chris Collins’ Financial Coaching BUSINESS AS UNUSUAL
Teresa Bovey’s Recipes ZEST APPEAL
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May and June are honestly some of the best months of the year—a magical shift between spring and summer. Spring’s still hanging around, but summer’s just starting to show up, and everything feels full of life. Flowers are going wild in gardens and parks (hello, peonies and roses), and the evenings finally stretch out long enough for lazy strolls or a drink outside without freezing. It’s that sweet spot where you can actually enjoy the sunshine before the full heat kicks in. Festivals start popping up, local fairs come alive, and there’s this overall vibe of “let’s get outside and enjoy it while we can.”
Nottinghamshire is bursting with things to see, do, and discover this spring and summer, and this roundup is full of inspiration! Open Studios 2025 kicks off in May, inviting you to peek inside the creative spaces of local artists and makers. History buffs can walk the Stoke Field Heritage Trail and relive the dramatic battle that helped cement the Tudor reign. June gets a wild twist thanks to the Wildlife Trusts’ #30DaysWild challenge—perfect for families looking to get outdoors. Hidden gems like Bromley House Library offer quiet escape in the heart of Nottingham, while Sherwood Forest reminds us that 'home' can be as wild and wonderful as nature itself.
On the lifestyle front, 2025’s interior trends are all about earthy tones and vintage flair, while bespoke furniture and clever garden ideas bring personality and purpose to your space. Property tips, decluttering advice, and even financial coaching get a friendly, helpful spotlight. Fancy something zesty? There are citrusy recipes to try, plus fashion tips to glide you into summer in style. And if cars are your thing—Bentley’s new high-performance hybrids are turning heads. Finally, don’t miss the Palais centenary—100 years of music, dancing, and pure Nottingham magic!
Whether you're planning a weekend escape or just hanging out in the garden, May and June have that feel-good, anything-is-possible kind of energy!
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The latest news from across the region.
Studios Nottinghamshire.
Open Studios 2025 returns for a monthlong celebration of artistic excellence.
36 The Battle of Stoke Field - 1487.
Made goes to visit the Heritage Trail dedicated to the battle ground near East Stoke, where Henry VII triumphed, paving the way for the enduring Tudor dynasty.
Wilder Nottinghamshire.
The Wildlife Trusts have issued the call to join them this June to explore nature with fun challenges for all ages as the countdown to #30DaysWild 2025 gets underway.
Bromley House Library, a literary oasis where the past and present blend seamlessly. Made knocks on the door...
Sherwood Forest is home to many things. By Robert James, Sherwood Forest & Budby South Forest.
&
This year’s interior palette brings nature indoors with a refined twist.
The Art Of Bespoke Furniture.
With over 25 years of experience, Andrew Preston Design transforms your vision into beautifully functional, custom-made pieces that enhance both domestic and commercial spaces.
54 Inside the Market: Buying & Selling Property.
From first impressions to final offers— insider tips to help you make smart moves whether you're buying your first home or preparing to sell.
59 Embrace The Season.
From planting to pruning, cultivate your garden and support wildlife this spring and early summer. By Dene Wood, Head Gardener at Clumber Park.
65 Is Financial Coaching Really A Thing!?
What you really want to know is the “How?” and “Why?” of it. Could it possibly help me? By Chris Collins, Life Coach.
67 Zest Appeal...
Citrus inspired recipes. By food demonstrator and home economist, Teresa Bovey.
75 Fashion.
Transition from spring to summer effortlessly.
62 Rother Valley Ramble.
Explore Rother Valley with travel writer and photojournalist Sally Outram.
80 The Supercar Family Expands.
Bentley’s new High Performance Hybrid Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur.
The Nottingham City Council-owned National Ice Centre and Motorpoint Arena proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary!
To mark this significant milestone, the venue – which is the largest entertainment venue in the East Midlands – has unveiled an exciting lineup of celebratory events and initiatives that reflect its rich history and enduring legacy.
Since opening on 1 April 2000, the venue has become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape, attracting millions of visitors from across the UK and beyond. Known for its world-class performances, sporting events, concerts, and more, the venue has established itself as a premier destination for entertainment in the heart of Nottingham.
Throughout its 25-year history, the venue has welcomed some of the world’s biggest musical acts, including Lady Gaga, Elton John, Beyoncé, Coldplay, and Justin Bieber, while also serving as the stage for high-profile sporting events such as Premier League Darts, World Championship Boxing, UFC, WWE, and the annual Elite Ice Hockey League Play-Off Finals. As a cultural hub for the region, it has become synonymous with unforgettable experiences that continue to resonate with fans and visitors.
Beyond entertainment, the venue has played a significant role in driving economic growth in Nottingham. A recent study by business students at Nottingham Trent University revealed that the National Ice Centre and Motorpoint
Arena Nottingham has contributed more than £1 billion to the city’s economy over the past 25 years. From supporting local businesses, including hotels, bars, and restaurants, to creating hundreds of jobs, the venue’s impact extends far beyond its walls, making it a vital asset to the region.
One of the key highlights of the anniversary celebrations is the People’s Picture Project, a stunning photo mosaic created from thousands of fan photos, capturing the essence of the venue’s impact over the years. Whether it’s seeing live music, taking in a sports event, or simply enjoying cherished times with friends, people are invited to submit their images and stories to www.motorpointarenanottingham.com/peoples-picture.
This summer, Motorpoint Arena Nottingham will host Torvill & Dean’s Last Dance – a farewell performance by the legendary ice dancing duo, marking their final appearance together before retiring. This emotional event will be a fitting tribute to the venue’s rich history in the world of ice skating.
The National Ice Centre is also launching a major community initiative to celebrate its anniversary by offering every child in Nottingham the chance to experience ice skating for free throughout June and July. This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of skat-
ers and share the joy of the sport with local families. More information can be found here.
The construction of the Nottingham Arena began in 1998, with the vision of creating a state-of-the-art venue that could accommodate a wide range of events, from sporting events to music concerts, theatrical performances, and more. The arena was designed by internationally acclaimed architects FaulknerBrowns who drew inspiration from the rich industrial heritage of the city to create a striking, contemporary building that would serve as a focal point for the city’s cultural scene.
The build was a massive undertaking, creating thousands of jobs with a team of over 3,000 workers involved in the construction process across two years.
When workmen began digging foundations, a rare 1,100-year-old Saxon jug was found and later put on display at the Nottingham Castle Museum. A 19thcentury graveyard was also found under the car park, from which bodies were then exhumed and sensitively moved elsewhere.
The arena was completed on schedule, and opened its doors to the public in April 2000. Find out more and discover events visit: www.motorpointarenanottingham.com
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Clumber Park
Worksop, S80 3AZ
Baby Songbirds
2 May & 6 Jun, 11am & 2pm
Enjoy creating joyful connections through song with a new singing group for babies and toddlers aged 0 to 3 years and their carers. Meet in The Parsonage at Clumber Park, £3 per child, limited spaces available, booking advised at nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark
Festival Of Blossom At Clumber Park
10 & 11 May, 10am – 4pm
Celebrate blossom season in Clumber’s walled kitchen garden with a vibrant festival of art. Delivered by and showcasing talents from across Nottinghamshire, explore a Maker’s Market, watch artists at work, enjoy music, poetry and storytelling, and relax with yoga and singing bowls. Free event. Yoga session is chargeable with booking advisable. Full details at: nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark
Mr Straw’s House Worksop, S81 0JG
Mr Straw’s House: Revealed
10 & 11 June, 10am – 12pm & 1pm – 3pm £15 per person. A rare opportunity to join an experienced guide and step beyond the ropes. Learn more of the family, their history and how the National Trust cares for the Straw's treasured possessions. Afterwards, enjoy a drink and chat to the House team. Booking essential at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mrstrawshouse
Mr Straw’s House Worksop Walk
30 May & 27 Jun, 10am – 1pm £5 per person. Join the team for a guided walk-through Worksop, the town the Straw family called home, and discover the places where they worked, worshipped and wandered. Booking essential at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ mrstrawshouse
independent school for all children aged 3 – 11.
Barlborough Hall School is delighted to invite families to their Open Day on the 10th of May, for a first-hand glimpse into the exceptional educational experiences awaiting students from early years education through to Year 6.
Embodying our Jesuit principles of seeing your child as a whole person is fundamental to the way we care for all children who attend our school. Each pupil is celebrated and encouraged in their individual strengths, allowing them to grow and thrive to the best of both their academic abilities and their extra-curricular interests.
Our facilities mean children get to explore a vast range of subjects, from science in our very own lab, to swimming lessons
in the school pool, from studying nature in our new outdoor classroom to PE in our dance studio. Our pupils perform to a high academic standard with their assessment results exceeding National Averages last year.
Barlborough’s beautiful grounds provide children with ample space and freedom to flourish. The School is enveloped in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside, with fields and natural woodland providing an idyllic surrounding. The sprawling landscape invites exploration and outdoor adventures, fostering a sense of connection with nature amplified by Barlborough’s Forest School programme and outdoor sporting curriculum.
Upton Road, Southwell, NG25 0PT
The Workhouse Whodunit
1 May – 29 Jun
Put your detective hat on and uncover the mystery of who broke the rules and what punishment they received with a family-friendly children’s trail. £2.50 per trail. Check website for all open days, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ theworkhouseandinfirmary
Blossom & Bees
3 May – 1 Jun
Discover fascinating facts about blossom & bees on a wander through the gardens and get creative with seasonal crafts. Free event, no booking required, admission applies. Check website for all open days, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/theworkhouseandinfirmary
Foreign Field Living History Group
14 & 15 Jun at 11.30am, 12.45pm & 2.15pm
Come and discover the group’s live period demonstration, The Dead and the Destitute, where they’ll carry out their body snatching display. Free event, no booking required, admission applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ theworkhouseandinfirmary
Norwood Park
Halam Rd, Southwell, NG25 0PF
VE Day Celebration: Afternoon Tea
8 May, 2pm – 6pm
To mark the 80 years since VE day 1945, Norwood is celebrating with a Birthday Tea Party in aid of the British Red Cross Society. Sir John Starkey Bt invites the Octogenarians of Southwell, their spouses, partners, carers, family and friends to a Birthday Tea Party! To mark the 80 years since VE day 1945, the end of the second World War, when The British Red Cross Society was in occupation of the Hall as a convalescent home for wounded servicemen. For full details visit: www.norwoodpark.co.uk
Chapel St, Ruddington
Natural Dyeing Workshop
May 10, 11am – 2.30 pm
Join Suspended In Sunbeam for an enchanting Natural Dyeing workshop in the Framework Knitters Museum Chapel Gallery on Saturday 10 May from 11am with Olivia from @suspendedinsunbeam
Discover the beauty of natural colour by creating your own Naturally-Dyed Silk Headscarf and Vanity Bag. During the session we will explore all the basics of Natural Dyeing and its benefits on your skin and the planet.
This will be a 3.5-hour session, with a 1-hour break for lunch. All materials and equipment will be provided. Participants are free to leave the Gallery during our lunch break. Basic sewing skills are advised (a simple running stitch), but aren’t necessary. £50 per person.
For more details and booking please visit: www.suspendedinsunbeam. square.site/s/shop
frameworkknittersmuseum. org.uk/events
Newark, NG24 2NY
Nottinghamshire County Show 10 May, 9am
The Nottinghamshire County Show showcases and educates the importance of the agricultural industry. Celebrating all aspects of agriculture including food production and the local countryside and send out a reminder of how important agriculture is to the local economy, our food industry and our way of life. nottinghamshirecountyshow. com/about-us
Newark and Sherwood District Council want to celebrate and promote the benefits of music to the community and following huge local interest in its Alive with Music programme, has appointed a freelance music network co-ordinator to push forward the district’s music agenda.
Musician and professional trumpet player, Nathan from Newark, has joined the Heritage and Culture team at the District Council to help connect and promote the wealth of music opportunities that exist in our district, supporting musicians, venues, communities and individuals via a new music forum. Nathan has recorded and performed with the likes of Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, Robbie Williams, Paloma Faith, Tim Minchin, Lulu and Rod Stewart to name but a few.
Nathan, who has extensive experience in music participation and community collaboration, said, “I am confident in my ability to connect musicians, venues, and participants to foster a thriving music scene across the district. I am passionate about delivering impactful cultural initiatives that inspire and engage communities, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Heritage and Culture team at the District Council.”
Following on from two successful Alive with Music events with interested parties from across the district, Nathan facilitated the first meeting of the forum, leading a lively and passionate discussion about the benefits
of music, the opportunities, challenges, and potential solutions that might be found.
The District Council want to ensure that music is firmly placed as a focus going forward. The forum is a chance for musicians, both amateur and professional, and all those involved in musicmaking in the district to network, exchange ideas and to celebrate all that music brings to our lives. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of music in people’s lives not only for health, wellbeing and a sense of identity and place, but also as a field offering myriad work opportunities in the creative industries; a positive and successful story for our times.
There is a huge musical movement in our district that deserves to be celebrated. Nathan’s role will be to ensure that this happens, and he hopes that it will encourages even more people to pick up an instrument or sing a song for the first time so that more people can enjoy the incredible benefits music can bring to your life.
If anyone would like to get involved, is keen on music or would like to find out more, please email palace@newarksherwooddc.gov.uk
Well known for its cable car flight to the top of Masson Hill, rising almost 1000 feet above sea level, visitors to the Heights of Abraham enjoy a hilltop adventure incorporating magnificent views, exhibitions, caverns tours, playgrounds, woodland trails and so much more.
This spring the Heights of Abraham’s underground experience has an exciting new offer - ‘Seism!c’, an immersive light and sound experience within the larger of its two show cavern, The Masson sheds a new light upon the dramatic events in the World’s history which this fascinating underground cavern, with its strata of mineral-rich rocks. The Rutland cavern tour meanwhile is guided by actors in Victorian period costume, who bring to life anecdotes from the old miners, the showmen, and the odd spooktacular tale! Find out more by visiting: www.heightsofabraham. com/see-and-do/showcaverns
Walk up to the Heights of Abraham in May
In May, three weekends celebrate National Walking Month, where visitors have the option to ditch the cable car and instead enjoy a fun yomp to the top, accompanied by an actor in period costume. Take a breather
part way up for a guided tour around the Rutland cavern. A complimentary refreshment voucher and certificate is included for those climbing to new heights for selected dates throughout the month of May!
Live Music: A Summer Sunday Afternoon
During June, we have a treat in store for our Sunday afternoon visitors. Each Sunday, we have a live band ‘Throwback’ playing an eclectic set of cover versions, journeying through the decades, from the 50s right up to current day tunes, and always with the emphasis on fun and upbeat tunes. Soak up the vibe in our openair amphitheatre for a treat indeed for music fans.
Book tickets online in advance to enjoy discounted rates, or show your bus or train ticket at the box office to enjoy our ‘Green’ discount saving, with prices from £24.50 per adult.
For full details, please visit: Heightsofabraham.com
Southwell Minster Wins Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards.
The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards, an event celebrating the best in the region’s tourism, leisure, culture and hospitality sectors, held a spectacular ceremony recently at the East Midlands Conference Centre. Among the night’s many honours, Southwell Minster was awarded Visitor Attraction of the Year, an accolade recognising outstanding places that provide truly memorable experiences and demonstrate excellence across every aspect of their organisation.
This prestigious award was presented to Southwell Minster for its dedication to hospitality, culture and sustainable success. Staff members Sarah Clemson and Ruth Massey accepted the award on behalf of the Dean and Chapter, and the hundreds of volunteers who work alongside the small staff team to make the Minster a remarkable place for visitors.
The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards include 14 categories covering a wide range of tourism, from hotels, B&Bs and campsites to pubs, visitor attractions and unique experiences. These categories highlight the breadth of the region’s tourism landscape and the remarkable people and businesses that make it thrive.
The judges’ findings for Southwell Minster were particularly glowing:
“Hospitality in the name of Jesus Christ is at the heart of what we are about. This sentiment is not just a phrase on the website, nor is it an ambition; it is an action that underpins the cultural, religious and sustainable success of Southwell Minster. At this building which has stood for a thousand years, I felt welcomed from the moment I entered the cathedral gates to leaving the visitor shop. Despite the age and religious significance of this landmark, every visitor is treated equally and is made to feel a guest of God, irrespective of their religion. I will be back for the many concerts and exhibitions.”
With this win, Southwell Minster will now be put forward for national recognition at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The Minster’s remarkable achievement puts it in the running for a prestigious national title, further affirming its place as a key cultural landmark in Nottinghamshire.
The Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards serve as a vital platform to celebrate the best in tourism, showcasing excellence and best practices in the region.
A much-loved Robin Hood and Lady Marian statue in Nottinghamshire has been restored to its original condition.
The bronze statue along Edwinstowe High Street, close to Sherwood Forest Country Park, needed intricate and highly skilled restoration work after Robin’s hand was so damaged that it no longer linked with Marian’s hand.
Rob Brackley and Katie Ward, aka Robin Hood and Lady Marian from Notts Outdoors, Nottinghamshire County Council’s outdoor and environmental educational services, describes how the statue is a celebration of both legends and important to the local community and visitors alike.
Katie Ward said: “It’s wonderful to see this muchloved statue back to its original condition with Robin and Marian back to being hand-in-hand.
“This statue is a real asset to the county’s visitor economy and very popular among locals and the many tourists who visit Edwinstowe. People love to get a selfie here, especially with Robin’s home, Sherwood Forest, just a stone’s throw away.
“We always point visitors in the direction of the village when visiting Sherwood Forest, so we’re glad they’ll once again be able to see the statue in all its glory.”
The restorations were completed at the end of March by Antique Bronze Ltd, who were commissioned by Arc Partnership, a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE.
Issued by Nottinghamshire County Council. News@nottscc.gov.uk
Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance is extremely important to agricultural workers in the county. You can help support their essential work by leaving a gift in your will to LNAA.
Malcolm Haywood comes from a farming family and can recall many instances of farm workers being injured in agricultural accidents and being helped by the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA).
He said: “A farmer friend got caught in a potato machine. The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance got there just in time, treated him at the farm and transported him to hospital. It could have been such a different outcome had it not been for the LNAA.”
Incidents like that are why Malcolm believes so strongly in the importance of LNAA being able to fly to sometimes isolated farms to save precious time and get people quickly to the hospital.
Malcolm and his wife Pat have decided to leave a gift to LNAA in their Wills so that the charity can continue to save lives in the future.
Malcolm said: “LNAA is so worthwhile in rural Lincolnshire and the work it does means a lot to my family because
we have been involved in aviation and farming all our lives. What better cause to leave a legacy to than to something so worthwhile that is on your doorstep.”
By remembering Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance in your Will, you will be helping to ensure that we can be there for critically ill and injured people when they need us most.
For information on how you can support the work of LNAA visit: www.ambucopter.org.uk
Green Hustle: Saturday 31 May 2025
Green Hustle, the free festival in Nottingham, will bring together thousands of people to enjoy live entertainment, workshops, a makers market and hands-on activities to inspire greener living.
This year, the festival is proudly headlined by It’s in Nottingham, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), reaffirming its commitment to supporting initiatives that make Nottingham a greener, more vibrant place to live, study, work and play.
Green Hustle will take over Old Market Square on 31 May for a day of free summer fun open to all, under the theme of Growing Together.
Already lined up for this year is live music and entertainment from Cultural Vibrations, dancers, circus acts and a makers market featuring local producers. A Community Garden showcase, an Action Cafe and new listening hub will provide inspiration along with the latest in Nottingham-led research on nature and environment.
‘Pay what you feel’ hot meals will return with Himmah Community Kitchen serving up 550 last year, along with other local food catering from Veggies and Abeyo Ethiopia. There will be plenty of ways people can get involved on the day, whether it's hands-on planting activities, creative fun or simply turning up to enjoy a hot meal.
Last year saw more than 10,000 people visit the free festival with 95 percent of those surveyed saying they were inspired to make a change such as volunteering and planting or changing buying habits and supporting local independents.
Festival co-director Adam Pickering said: “Green Hustle is a much needed opportunity to get together, regardless of age, what area you're from or your
interests. Times might still be feeling hard for many, but we're determined to put everyone in the driving seat in making a difference and helping everyone in our community thrive.
“Like any great festival, there's something for everyone. But where else can you find it all for free? There'll be lots of different ways to get involved in taking climate action and helping nature. Whether it’s fashion, live music, learning a new skill or enjoying some freshly made food, everyone can join in and enjoy a great day without paying a penny.”
Alex Flint, CEO of It’s in Nottingham, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We’re thrilled to support Green Hustle Festival as this year’s headline sponsor. At It’s in Nottingham, we believe in the power of communitydriven initiatives to create lasting positive change. Green Hustle is a shining example of how creativity and collaboration can come together to make Nottingham a more sustainable city, and we're proud to be part of that journey.”
The festival - established in 2020 - also has a lasting impact through projects such as the planting of the permanent beds and planters in Old Market Square and the donation of the University of Nottingham pop up garden to Welbeck Primary School, to help children learn about growing food.
Green Hustle also planted their 10,000th tree this winter in partnership with Trees for Cities. Ten Thousand Trees aims to connect people with local nature, especially young people, children and
families living in built up urban areas.
In 2023, Green Hustle led a project funded by Raleigh with support from Canal and River Trust to revamp part of Nottingham Canal. The Wilford Street Wildlife Ramp project brought the now-familiar upcycled metal heron to its watery home.
As well as the funding from headline sponsor It's in Nottingham, Green Hustle is supported by Experian, Nottingham College and Savoy Systems.
Helen Emmett, Chief Financial Officer at Experian UK&I and a Nottingham resident, said: “Experian is delighted to support Green Hustle, knowing it means so much to Nottingham’s citizens, including many Experian colleagues. Many of my colleagues, like me, recognise the importance of collectively improving the local environment and ensuring Nottingham is seen as a vibrant, inclusive City.”
Matthew Bunn, Sustainability Lead at Nottingham College, said: “Nottingham College understands the importance of this festival and is delighted to support it. As a collective we can strive for a cleaner and more liveable city and this festival goes a long way in helping us all to achieve that goal.”
Green Hustle is delivered with the help of more than 100 partners, community groups and organisations, with hundreds of volunteer hours given last year to help bring it to life.
To find out more, keep an eye on: www.greenhustle.co.uk
Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the only surviving operational railway roundhouse in the UK. Packed full of interesting steam, diesel and electric locomotives, and other railway-related artefacts and displays. Discover the story of this 19th century former Midland Railway Company engine shed and how it used to operate.
• Pick up your free guide with your entry ticket
• Watch the Roundhouse turntable demonstrations and get hands on with our signal box demonstrations
• Train rides (check website for train running days)
• Look around the Foreman’s Office and sit in the boss’s chair
• Visit our wagons with their interactive displays
• Children’s activities, including dressing up; you can also use one of our activity packs (available from the Shop) during your visit
• Look out for other interesting displays and artefacts, including the shed roster board, smoke hoods and the worn step (which tells its own story)
• Free parking
• Dog-friendly
• Cyclists andwalkers welcome
• Café – breakfasts, light lunches, hot and cold drinks and snacks (free admission)
• Shop – don’t miss it; there’s something for all ages
March - December 2025
10am - 4pm (last entry 3pm) Campbell Drive, Barrow Hill, Chesterfield, S43 2PR
Hill Roundhouse
Campbell Drive, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. S43 2PR
The Recreation Of LMS Ivatt Diesel 10000
8 May, 7.30pm – 10pm Speaker – Derek Payne. The Ivatt Diesel Recreation Society was formed in 2011 with the aim of building, exhibiting and operating a recreation of LMS loco 10000. The original was designed by H G Ivatt and built by the LMS at Derby Works, in association with English Electric. Featuring an EE 1600hp diesel engine, generator and electrics, 10000 was outshopped on 8th December 1947. 10000 and its sister loco, 10001, were the first successful main line diesel locomotives built in Britain and set the shape of UK diesel traction for decades to come. 10000 ran until 1963 and was scrapped in 1968. The show will look at the project from the start and follow progress to date.
Admission is normally £3 for members and £5 for nonmembers.
Free parking on site. For full details and to buy tickets visit: www.barrowhill.org
Rail Ale 2025 –Celebrating 25 years 15 - 18 May – from 12pm Celebrating 25 years of the iconic and unique Rail Ale Festival. The 2025 Festival will take place over FOUR DAYS from 15 - 18 May with some great live music lined up. As well as the music, there will be a huge selection of over 400 beers and ciders, the renowned Rail Ale Gin Palace, the Wine & Prosecco Bar and of course the Rail Ale trains.
Kicking off the music at Thursday’s Rail Ale Rock Night will be Queen tribute band Flash, back on the Roundhouse stage following their hugely successful debut at Rail Ale 2023. Headlining Rail Ale on Friday night will be Jungle Lion, a 10-piece Sheffield-based SKA and reggae band. On Saturday the Rail Ale Festival will go into Swedish super group mode with Lets ABBA Party. We have a special addition to the 2025 Festival calendar on the afternoon of the 18 May.
This is a must do event for country music fans as well as being a day out for all the family – under 18s go free! Nashville@TheRoundhouse will be a celebration of everything Country with leading artists from around the UK. Festival goers can buy tickets for each session of the Festival – or treat themselves to a fourday Rail Ale Weekend Pass which includes entry to Rock Night on 15 May and Nashville @ The Roundhouse on 18 May. For more information and camping details visit: www.railalefestival.com Tickets are on sale now from www.seetickets.com
Train Running Day
14 & 15 Jun 10am – 4pm
Join us for one of our special 2025 Running Days. Using our brake vans and top and tailed by two of the Roundhouse locomotives. Take a trip up the Springwell branch line and see the Roundhouse site and the ever-changing line up in the yard from a different perspective. Entry includes access to the Roundhouse Museum and exhibitions, and turntable and signal box demonstrations. Ticket prices (on the day, no pre-booking): Adult: £12, Child (3-15yrs): £10, Family (2 adults and up to 3 children): £39.
The Great Railway Time Machine Presents: A Celebration Of LMS Lines In Scotland, Part 2 19 Jun, 7.30pm – 10pm Social Evening, Speaker –Steve Armitage. The LMS and its constituent lines and locomotives in Scotland. A celebration of Caledonian, Glasgow & South Western and Highland metals and machines from Victorian times, continuing via the LMS and British Railways to the end of steam. Admission is normally £3 for members and £5 for nonmembers. Free parking on site. For full details and to buy tickets visit: www.barrowhill.org
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Email: hello@madeinn.co.uk or call: 01777 712609 www.madeinn.co.uk
The Welbeck Estate triumphs at the Visit Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards.
The Welbeck Estate triumphed twice at the recent Visit Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards 2025. The team took away the New Tourism Business of the Year Award for Cuckney House, and were also presented with a Bronze Award for Holbeck Farm Barns in the Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year category.
The Awards were organised by Visit Nottinghamshire, and celebrate excellence across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire's tourism, leisure, culture, and hospitality sectors. There were 14 award categories honouring all areas of the tourism industry, from hotels, B&Bs and campsites to pubs, visitor attractions, unique experiences, and the people behind the businesses. The winners were announced at a glittering awards ceremony on 20 March at the East Midlands Conference Centre.
Ross Owen, Hospitality Manager at The Welbeck Estate, commented, “I am incredibly proud of the team for these achievements across our hospitality portfolio. This is not only an achievement of the hospitality team but of the entire Welbeck Estate. We as an estate are delighted with the results.”
Cuckney House, a stunninglyrestored Grade II listed man-
or house, is the jewel in the Welbeck crown and began welcoming guests in late 2023. Available for short term holiday rentals, it also offers a wow-factor location for weddings and other milestone celebrations. It is perhaps best-known for having featured in the 2014 film, Testament of Youth.
Northern Design Award winner Rachel McLane was charged with sympathetically dressing every room in a classic, timeless style that shines a light on the grand proportions and original architectural features. There are three beautiful reception rooms and 15 bedrooms (sleeping up to 31 people), including a sensational bridal suite.
Also recently transformed, the Holbeck Farm Barns are a collection of self-contained barn conversions, set in the Estate's picture-perfect village of Holbeck, enjoying uninterrupted views of the countryside. There are five Barns to choose from, sleeping between four and eight guests, some with hot tubs and others that are dog-friendly, but all offer parking, wifi, a bbq area and access to countryside walks.
For more information, visit www.welbeck.co.uk/stay-with-us
As a leading domestic glass replacement company for more than 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows are the leading name in the industry. There is no need for you to risk your windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the street. You can join over 336,000 happy customers and replace your glass ethically and affordably. If you have a failed glass unit, it may not provide you with the protection you need or be as energy-efficient as it once was. Take a minute to check your home to see if any double glazing has failed? Taking action now can prevent future financial problems.
When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows John Kendall it became clear that these values have been held dear for a
number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.
The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. John commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.
For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.co.uk.
Janet Beard
Dusk Chorus Walk
10 May, 7.30pm-9.30pm £16 Non-members, £13 RSPB Members. This pre-sunset expedition into the heart of Sherwood will introduce you to the sound of the woodland at its most magical time, as a host of species sing and call to welcome the new day.
Listen out for the screech of a tawny owl, the sweet melody of the song thrush and the welcome return of summer visitors like the redstart, or catch a glimpse of bats flitting across the lightening late spring sky. This walk is not suitable for dogs or children aged seven or under. Even though it is in May, warm clothing and appropriate footwear is recommended. Some surfaces will be uneven with tree roots and loose stones. It will also be dark at the beginning of the walk so a torch is strongly recommended.
If you have any questions about accessibility or dietary requirements please email us at sherwoodevents@rspb.org.uk. For everything you need to know about coming to Sherwood Forest and Budby South Forest, please see our Plan Your Visit page.
Please be aware that this event may be filmed and photographed by the RSPB for promotional purposes. visitsherwood.co.uk/event/ dusk-chorus-walk
The Shed at Collingham offers new activities thanks to rural funding.
A popular and growing community group based in Collingham has expanded with the introduction of new activities and increased floor space to enable a more inclusive offering for the local community.
TheShed@Collingham is a welcoming and vibrant community initiative designed to bring together like-minded people in a supportive and friendly environment. Its mission is to combat social isolation and promote wellbeing by providing a space where members can share skills, build friendships, and stay social through participation in woodwork, and more recently glass and metal working activities.
work, copper and brass ornament work, pyrography, stained glass activities and small scale sheet metal fabrication.
Matt Lamb, Director for Planning and Growth at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “The group recognised that not everyone in its community was able to access the opportunities available through the Shed, and the Charity is now able to diversify its offering to become a more inclusive place for everyone.”
through bereavement, maintaining that feeling that others are relying on you to turn up at The Shed to complete a task, can provide a reason to get up in the morning.
“The Shed also supports people out of the workforce for some time, for example, due to extended maternity/ paternity leave while the children grow up, and the Shed re-establishes selfconfidence and social skills required to re-enter the workplace.”
If you have an event you’d like to share with Made we’d love to hear from you. Email: hello@madeinn.co.uk or call: 01777 712609
Although we endeavour to ensure that all of the events listed here are correct it is advisable to check before the event in case of alterations or planning changes.
www.madeinn.co.uk
The Charity recently received £67,500 funding from Newark and Sherwood District Council through the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) with funding used to expand its floor space to accommodate for further resident volunteers. The extension will also allow the group to develop their offer in a safe environment, with the grant also supporting the purchase of essential equipment.
With the investment towards building an extension onto the existing building, new activities that can be completed sitting down are now being offered, as well as jewellery making, lathe
Collingham and District Sheds was established more than ten years ago and became a registered charity in 2020. Since then, it has quickly grown into a gender neutral, inclusive organisation for members to have a chat and undertake work of their choosing or contribute their skills and time to projects of benefit to the community.
Miles Harriman, Chair at The Shed, said: “Many existing members joined The Shed since retiring to maintain a sense of achievement and establish new ‘work’ colleagues. This has had a massive positive impact on their physical and mental health, supporting residents other-wise at risk of social exclusion.
“For other members that may have lost a loved one
The Shed currently supports more than 50 residents to access skills and wellbeing support through volunteering, and the increase in floor space and diversification of offering will allow this to grow significantly. It is based at Unit 1, Gusto House, Greenway, Collingham, NG23 7DX.
Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, pursue hobbies, or simply enjoy the company of like-minded individuals, The Shed@ Collingham offers a place to do all that and more. For more information, visit: theshedatcollingham.org
The Rural England Prosperity Fund is integrated into the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, acting as a top-up to eligible rural areas.
www.newark-sherwooddc. gov.uk
Support the North Nottinghamshire First Responders volunteers and make a difference.
North Nottinghamshire Community First Responders are a group of 17 local volunteers recruited, selected, and trained by East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust to Future Quals level 3 and 4 standards in the First Person on Scene qualification. We are operational in our own time, from home, with a Defibrillator, Oxygen, and other life-saving equipment, responding concurrently with the Paramedic and Ambulance to life threatening emergencies. We are repeatedly called out and have on occasion’s successfully resuscitated patients.
Our training is supported by Paramedics, and we also receive instructions from the Emergency Operational Control team who dispatch us. We also have opportunities to observe crews in the paramedic cars and ambulances.
Annually, on average, we provide thousands of hours of commitment and attended 600 calls, the majority of which we were the First Person on Scene. We successfully resuscitate two people annually.
We cover most of Bassetlaw and have been to neighbouring districts such as Mansfield, Chesterfield, and Gainsborough when necessary. Many of our members have moved on to take up careers in the healthcare, we are a recruitment opportunity for the NHS.
Our own equipment costs around £2,000 per responder. We also have a self-supported marked Responder Car costing £6,000 p.a. to enhance our work. This vehicle also carries a lifting chair to assist patients off the floor following a fall and other supportive equipment. We are a respected voluntary group and have received much support from our local community, our own fundraising team supports our tombola stall and raffle. We demonstrate the use of defibrillators in the community, attend local events and support the Bassetlaw Food Bank with deliveries.
Our future lies with continued community support to stay on the road. We would welcome commercial support for the e Kia Niro for a modest donation, giving you good
advertisement and keeping us available in emergencies.
Find out more and how you can support North nottinghamshire Community First Responders by visiting: www.northnottscfr.co.uk.
Join our “Drive the Change” program. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
Our response vehicle is essential to our life-saving operations, allowing our trained volunteers to reach emergencies swiftly. However, maintaining and leasing this vehicle costs £6,000 a year. By sponsoring our vehicle for just £500, you can be the exclusive sponsor for a calendar month, helping us continue our crucial work.
To learn more or become a sponsor, contact Graham on 07711 763 124 or email g.e.robinson2023@gmail.com
Thoresby Estate, Thoresby Park, Newark. NG22 9EP
Spring Plant Hunters Fair 16 Mar. 10am - 4pm
Notts Classic Car & Motorcycle Show
4 & 5 May, 10am – 4pm
Classic Shows are returning to Thoresby Park for a Bank Holiday extravaganza of all things classic motoring. classicshows.org
Spirit of Wartime
Sherwood 1940’s
10 & 11 May, 10am – 4pm
Experience life in 1940s military camps and on the Homefront. www.thoresby.com
An Afternoon Picnic with Birds of Prey 7 Jun
An exciting afternoon with Birds of Prey and special guests. www.hawkeyefalconry.co.uk
Courtyard Makers Market 22 Jun, 10am – 4pm
A selection of local creatives, makers and artists bringing a varied selection of handmade crafts and foods. www.thoresby.com
Church Street, Southwell, NG25 0HD
Southwell Music Festival
Launch Concert May 16, 7.30pm – 8.30pm
A free concert to announce the programme for the 2025 Southwell Music Festival. As well as the programme announcement, there will be performances from a selection of artists who will perform at this year’s Festival, including this year’s String Apprentices, the Telyn Quartet. Admission to the concert is free, with the option of making a donation to the Festival. After the concert, you are warmly invited to join us for refreshments in the Crossing. The concert takes place by kind permission of the Dean and Chapter. Reserve free tickets, visit: www.southwellmusicfestival. com
Hands On Heritage Day. 17 May. 10am - 2pm, Mansfield Central Library
Step into history this Hands On Heritage Day, returning to Mansfield Central Library on Saturday 17 May. Between 10am and 2pm, enjoy this free family-friendly event offering a range of activities celebrating Nottinghamshire's vibrant past - plus immersive experiences you won't forget.
This year, immerse yourself in virtual reality experiences courtesy of the VR Library tour, supported by the BFI with National Lottery funding. These interactive films will transport you to new worlds with films including Wallace & Gromit in The Grand Getaway and The Philharmonia Virtual Orchestra's The Lark Ascending. Additionally, embark on
a mission like no other with 1943 Berlin Blitz, combining immersive 360-degree VR with an incredible recording of BBC war correspondent Wynford Vaughan-Thomas as he boards a Lancaster bomber navigating a dangerous raid above Berlin.
Nottinghamshire Archives will also be in attendance, bringing their fascinating documents along via augmented reality, as well as an interactive map that will bring you even closer to Mansfield's history than before. Those wishing to contribute to the Archives' evergrowing collections can do so on the day too by bringing their own photographs to donate to the Inspire Picture Archive.
Other groups and organisations at Hands On Heritage include Bassetlaw Museum, Nottingham Women's History Group and Nottinghamshire Mining Museum, providing a range of activities to enjoy. Some will be joining Inspire in commemorating the 80th Anniversary of VE Day with themed sessions, while nostalgic music will be performed live by the Red Hot Band.
The VR tour will be visiting four libraries this spring - find out more at inspireculture. org.uk/digitalspaces
Further information about Hands On Heritage can be found at: inspireculture. org.uk/HandsOnHeritage
Exhibition
Newark Library – 2 - 29 May
FREE. An exhibition celebrating Ollerton: Then & Now. Contemporary photography of place informed and inspired by photos from the Inspire Picture Archive taken by adults from the community working with professional photographer, Neil Pledger. The photos are seen alongside artwork based on historical maps created by children from the community working with visual artist Edwina Kung.
Photography Workshops
Newark – 10 May, 10am Southwell – 7 Jun, 10am FREE. Booking required. Snap up this opportunity to take part in a hands-on workshop with photographer Neil Pledger. The two-hour workshop is an introduction to photo composition techniques, specifically tailored to heritage and place photography. It will explore how to record your local area for future generations, exploring Then and Now. Please bring your own camera or phone.
Family Artist Workshop
Newark Library – 28 May
FREE. Drop in and join a fun, interactive artist workshop with Edwina Kung. Collaboratively create art maps inspired by historical local maps exploring mark-making, layering, colour and pattern.
Exhibition
Unearthed: The Power Of Gardening
Mansfield Central – 2 - 30 May
FREE. Inspire are delighted to be hosting a taster of the Unearthed Exhibition exploring the transformative power of gardening and opening at the British Library’s St Pancras site in May 2025. Gardening is so much more than the nation’s favourite pastime. Tracing personal stories alongside global histories, Unearthed celebrates gardening as a force for creativity, resilience and connection.
The Minute Memoir Writing Workshop
Newark – 12 May, 11am FREE. Join our free, guided, life writing sessions. We’ll help you explore your memories one at a time. Write about your life, exercise your creativity and enjoy the wellbeing benefits of expressive writing. Get help on how to structure your personal stories.
The Minute Memoir is designed and run by writers Anthony Crop-
per and Eve Makis who teach on the MA Creative Writing at Nottingham Trent University. Suitable for writers of all levels aged 16+.
Virtual Reality Library
Mansfield Central –17 May, 10am - 2pm 18 May, 12 - 2pm
Worksop –24 May, 10am - 3pm 25 May, 12pm - 2pm FREE. Drop in. Get ready to be amazed by our new collection of VR experiences in your local library! Supported by the BFI with National Lottery funding, a national VR tour will visit our libraries twice throughout the year with a thrilling programme of VR experiences, including: Wallace & Gromit in the Grand Getaway, The Philharmonia Virtual Orchestra, Monoliths: Explore England's northern landscape.
Jazz Steps Live At The
Libraries Presents:
Me & Mr Jones
Worksop – 20 May, 7.30pm
£13. Sophisticated sounds from ‘Me & Mr Jones’ – aka joint founders of Nottingham’s Peggy’s Skylight venue. Great American Songbook tunes in fresh arrangements, plus soul and blues, for a great summer evening of jazz!
Heritage Talk
Medieval Worksop
Worksop – 21 May
£3. Join Benedict Jephcote to discover how the Norman and Medieval period laid the groundwork for Worksop in later centuries. The talk will look at notable families, developments in the town and outlying villages, and the construction of some of Worksop's oldest buildings.
Children’s Author Visit: Tom McClaughlin
Mansfield Central –27 May, 10.30am
Worksop – 27 May, 2pm £3 children / FREE for accompanying adults. The author of Alan, King of the Universe will be reading from his new book as well as doing live drawing and talking about his experiences of being a dis…dycle… dyslexic author. For ages 6+.
Nuclear Bunker:
A Creative Archive Exhibition
Worksop – 3 Jun - 17 Jul FREE. Hidden away in a patch of
wasteland in suburban Nottingham, a Cold War relic lies abandoned. Known locally as ‘The Kremlin’, this is a huge nuclear bunker, constructed in 1952-53 as a Regional War Room and expanded in the early 1960s into a Regional Seat of Government from which a Commissioner and a staff of over 400 people would have governed whatever remained of the North Midlands after nuclear war. This exhibition explores the bunker through the eyes of writers and experts who ventured through its steel doors to explore its strange and haunting interior in the summer of 2024.
Heritage Talk
Historical Highlights from Bassetlaw
Retford Library – 5 Jun, 7pm £3. This talk, by local author and historian Adrian Gray, brings together some of the most interesting places in the historic landscape of Bassetlaw - great scenery, romantic old houses and stories of the people who lived there.
Exploring Parish Registers
Southwell Library –9 Jun, 2pm FREE. Join one of our librarians for a small group session to talk about the history of Nottinghamshire's parish registers and look at some of the fascinating stories they contain.
Heritage Talk The Scandalous Marriages Of The Sherwood Aristocracy
Mansfield Central – 17 Jun, 2pm £3. Did you know that modern divorce laws originated with a Sherwood Forest case? Find out how, and who was to blame, in this fascinating talk by Adrian Gray based on his new book The Scandalous Lives of the Sherwood Forest Nobility.
All Events:
Booking in advance is advised for all events. To book and find out further details of all the events listed here and more, visit: www.inspireculture.org.uk Call 01623 677 200 Or pop in to your local library.
Retforf Market Square
Retford Big Market Day 17 May & 21 June 10am and 1pm
Combining Retford Farmers' Market (8.30am to 1pm), the Traditional Saturday Market and Retford Craft Market (8.30am to 2.30pm), plus entertainment while you shop and great, free fun for everyone!
This month's entertainment has yet to be confirmed but there's sure to be something fun happening, so please put the date into your diary and come and visit Retford Big Market! In Retford Market Square between
Retford Big Market Days are brought to you by Retford Business Forum, in partnership with North Notts BID, and Bassetlaw District Council.
Laxton, Newark, NG22 0PA
Evening Talk: The Siege Of Leicester 23 May, 7.30pm In a bloody eight days in May 1645, the Royalist army commanded by King Charles I brutally sacked Leicester, outraging the nation and contributing significantly to his downfall. Now, new archaeological evidence from commercial excavations in Leicester is helping us to reappraise what happened. Join archaeologist Mathew Morris to find out more. Book now for £10, or £3 for Friends and volunteers. www.nationalcivilwarcentre. com/whatson/events/ evening-talk-the-siege-ofleicester.php
Share your events with Made!
hello@madeinn.co.uk 01777 712609
Although we endeavour to ensure that all of the events listed here are correct it is advisable to check before the event in case of alterations or planning changes.
High Pavement, Nottingham. NG1 1HN
Crime Club
Castaway Crimes
22 May, 6pm – 8pm
This Crime Club is filled with tales of struggle, endurance, and moral conflict, as we dive deep into these extraordinary accounts of survival, mystery, and intrigue. What secrets lie beneath these forgotten stories? Were these survivors truly innocent, or did the dark side of humanity reveal itself in the most extreme circumstances?
Real crimes. Real stories. Real evidence. Free drink included! Tickets £15.50 full price/£14.50 concessions* – Booking essential. Over 18's only, proof of I.D. may be required. Please be aware that some of the material covered may be sensitive in nature. www.nationaljusticemuseum. org.uk
Main Street, Doddington, LN6 4RU
Summer Wine Evening 23 May, 7–9.30pm
Enjoy a curated selection of wines, hosted by Kate McFruin from Liberty Wines, all new for the summer season in our award-winning Farm Shop. Taste our new wines paired with delicious nibbles and afterwards take advantage of exclusive discounted shopping. Tickets are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment. Adult (18yrs+): £25 www.doddingtonhall.com
Marvellous Moths At Wilder Doddington 7 June, 9am – 11am
Join guide Martin Gray to discover some of the marvellous moths that call Wilder Doddington their home. Come and learn about moths, the role they play in nature’s complex web of life, and how you can help them. Discover more about these incredible insects whatever the weather! Approximate duration: 2 hours www.doddingtonhall.com
College and Nottingham Forest Community Trust launch ground-breaking sports coaching course.
Young people passionate about sports coaching have an exciting opportunity to gain industry-recognised qualifications and hands-on experience while working directly with a Premier League community club organisation.
This comes after West Nottinghamshire College and Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT) teamed up to offer an innovative new course aimed at aspiring coaches looking to make a difference in their communities.
The CIMSPA Community Coaching with Nottingham Forest Community Trust (Advanced) Level 3 programme is designed to give 16-18-year-olds a competitive edge in the world of coaching by learning from skilled practitioners from the club’s charitable arm.
The course, which has just 25 places, promises learners a unique opportunity to work within NFCT’s extensive network, where they will gain direct access to professional coaching pathways and realworld community engagement opportunities.
It starts in September 2025 and will be delivered from The Forest Sport Zone in Nottingham and the college’s Derby Road campus in Mansfield, providing stu-
dents with expert-led training and top-tier facilities.
Classroom-based teaching will be underpinned by a strong emphasis on practical coaching in primary schools and community settings, primarily within the city of Nottingham but also across Nottinghamshire.
Students who secure a place on the programme will develop their skills in delivering engaging, inclusive sessions for diverse groups, and sports development initiatives in schools and community venues. They will also have the chance to get involved with Nottingham Forest matchday Fan Zone activities, offering a unique behind-the-scenes experience with a professional football club.
Andrew Cropley, principal and chief executive of the college, highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying: “This partnership with Nottingham Forest Community Trust aligns perfectly with our mission to provide high-quality, careerfocused education that benefits both our students and the wider community.”
Nottingham Forest Community Trust has a long-standing commitment to using sport as a vehicle for positive social change. The charity improves community health
and wellbeing through inclusive programmes, providing opportunities for physical activity, supporting mental wellness and helping people develop new skills.
The college’s head of sport and public services, Wayne Loseby, said: “This course is a game-changer for anyone interested in sports coaching. In addition to gaining CIMSPA-endorsed qualifications, students will have the invaluable experience of learning from community coaches aligned to a Premier League football club.
“Whether students aspire to work in schools, clubs or elsewhere, this programme will give them the tools they need to succeed.”
The level 3 qualification is designed to open doors to various pathways in the sports industry, including coaching, community sports development, and higher education opportunities such as university courses in sports science or coaching. It is also endorsed by CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity), ensuring that graduates meet the highest industry standards.
Applications for the course are now open. For more information visit wnc.ac.uk/ forest
Thoresby Park, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9EP 20 & 21 September 2025
The Festival of Food and Drink is back for its 12th year on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September, and is preparing to unwrap another great weekend of delicious food, inspiring demos and a dazzling line-up of guest chefs.
Thoresby Park in Nottinghamshire will be throwing open its gates to welcome visitors from across the UK and, with the beautiful Thoresby Hall as its backdrop, is a favourite destination on the foodie calendar.
With over 160 stalls showcasing a variety of food and drink products, gift, crafts, and homewares plus exciting news for BBQ enthusiasts – you are guaranteed a day jampacked with fun and entertainment.
Live music, bars, cocktails and new and exciting bookable sessions. There’s plenty to keep the little people entertained with the Kids Cookery School, Circus School and arts and crafts and more.
Master Carvers will be getting crafty with the new live wood carving demonstrations – showcasing the techniques and tools of the trade and sharing expert tips for any budding carvers.
The 500 seated Cookery Theatre will welcome another brilliant line-up of TV Chefs. The full cookery theatre schedules will be announced very soon.
The Cookery Theatre will once again be hosted by Chris Bavin - Chris has worked in the fresh produce industry for over 20 years and is presenter of BBC’s Eat Well for Less – he is renowned for his lively and interactive chat with the guest chefs.
Tickets from just £12 can be purchased via the festival website. VIP tickets, children and family ticket options are also available, and under six years go free.
festivaloffoodanddrink.com
This May, Nottinghamshire’s creative community will once again welcome the public into its studios, as Open Studios 2025 returns for a month-long celebration of artistic excellence.
Now in its 14th year, the annual event has become a cornerstone of the county’s cultural calendar, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness craftsmanship at its source.
Over four weekends, 130 artists and makers will open their doors at 67 locations across the county and city, offering a warm welcome into their creative spaces and an exclusive look at their work in progress. This year’s programme showcases a diverse array of disciplines, from contemporary painting and ceramics to textile design and printmaking. Visitors will not only observe artists at work but will also gain an insight into their creative processes, inspirations, and techniques. It’s a chance to watch creativity unfold, hear the stories behind each piece, and connect with the people shaping Nottinghamshire’s rich cultural landscape.
More than a simple exhibition, Open Studios Nottinghamshire is a testament to the enduring value of handmade artistry in an era increasingly dominated by mass production. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase original works, commission bespoke pieces, and engage in discussions with the artists shaping the region’s creative identity.
“Public visits, purchases, and commissions are the lifeblood of an artist’s practice,” says the OSNotts team. “When visitors engage with an artist’s work, it’s not just about purchasing something beautiful—it’s about understanding the passion, skill, and dedication behind it.”
With venues ranging from rural retreats to urban studios, Open Studios 2025 provides a unique chance to explore Nottinghamshire’s artistic landscape. Whether you’re an art collector, a creative soul, or simply curious, this is an unmissable opportunity to celebrate the talent flourishing right on our doorstep.
For further details on participating artists, venues, and opening times, visit: www.osnotts.co.uk
OSNotts is a not for profit annual celebration of artists and makers across the county.
11 Churchgate, Retford DN22 6PA
Open Studios Event. 16 & 17 May
Retford Arts Hub is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year.
It was established in 2015 as a Community Interest Company providing a platform for local food produce, visitor information and artists and crafters.
Run entirely by a wonderful team of volunteers, the Hub provides a warm friendly space to sit, chat and browse unique and stylish locally produced items.
Since COVID and under new management, the Hub has extended its offerings and there are now seven artist studios at very affordable rates together with a classroom to rent or attend the varied workshops. Regular classes for adults and children take place in both arts and crafts and these are very popular. There are over 100 artists and crafters as members and many of them have been with the Hub since day one.
Exhibitions are held in the Upstairs Gallery and the exhibition “Is This Art?” proved to be a great success with visitors’ comments showing it had been enjoyed by many. The recent exhibition “Windows and Doors” which ran until late April once again produced some excellent and interesting work by the Hub's artists.
Of course, the Hub must celebrate ten years of inspiring work by the members and has decided to hold an Open Studios event on 16 and 17 May. Various artists and crafters will be demonstrating their skills, so come along for inspiration, information and perhaps have a go.
If you wish to join in call: 01777 860414, email; info@retfordartshub.com You can also follow the Hub on Facebook/ Instagram: @retfordartshub
Bassetlaw Museum, Retford, DN22 6LD
The ‘Invisible Light’ exhibition by Alan Withington. On now until 21 Jun
This exhibition showcases images created using ultraviolet (UV) light, which is invisible to most people. Each photograph carries a hidden meaning, much like the unseen light that produced them. The images capture well-loved places and evoke deep feelings.
The techniques featured are known as ‘alternative processes,’ blending ancient photographic methods with digital elements to produce positive images. These methods, which use paper ‘negatives’ and avoid darkroom chemicals, include in-camera cyanotypes, in-camera lumens, lumen photograms and solargraphs
Alan Withington, a photographer who has embraced these techniques over the past five years, presents images that require long exposure times, ranging from 45 minutes to over four months. His work is a response to the fast-paced modern world and the challenges posed by AI to creative authenticity, emphasising the value of ‘real’ photography crafted with patience and care.
‘Sequins and Sparkles’, a fashion exhibition. On now.
Enter a world of shimmering glamour with ‘Sequins and Sparkles’, an exhibition that brings together a collection of fashion from the 20th century. This display features a striking array of garments made of fabrics with metallic threads, adorned with sequins and beads. A selection of dazzling 19th-20th century jewellery and accessories completes the sparkle.
When two sensational 1920s party dresses, currently being conserved, return to the museum, they will be added to the display, bringing even more shimmer to the show.
Discover the power of light and reflection through these stunning pieces, where each sequin tells its own story, and every sparkle invites you to shine.
For further details, visit: bassetlawmuseum.org.uk
Poplars Farm, Styrrup, Doncaster DN11 8NB
Mid-Summer Potters Market. 21 & 22 June 10am – 4pm
Pottery and Sculpture in the beautiful Gardens at the Dovecot Gallery, it is the first event open to the public this year, and will be the third Mid-Summer potters’ market held here.
As before the yard and garden will be completely taken over by market stalls where you can chat with the potters, browse and buy ceramic work. We have 37 Potters taking part this year, showing a wide variety of ways of working with clay. We will also have our own throw-down experience, with Potters demonstrating wheel work, and an opportunity to have-a-go yourself at throwing. Come and get a taste of Pottery!
As before our friends from Doncaster Ukrainian Centre are running the refreshments and there will be plenty of home-made cake on offer. We are pleased to be able to support their fundraising work for humanitarian aid to Ukraine. During 2023 and 2024 The Dovecot raised over £6,000, as well as raising money for Nottinghamshire MIND.
Dovecot Gallery’s First event of 2025 were a series of hands-on, artist-led workshops exploring drawing, printmaking and textile work. We had 100 participants and some terrific results. This series of workshops was funded through the UKSPF known to all as ‘Levelling -up’ funding coming from the UK Government.
Free Entry, Free Parking at the village hall. www.dovecotgallery.co.uk
Cath Ray Gallery & Studios.
58b Bridgegate, Retford, DN22 7UZ
Artempo Exhibition. Open Studios.
3 May – 28 Jun 3 May & 18 May (10am – 4pm)
Throughout May and June the gallery will be full of artists as our annual Open Studios events coincide with the first group exhibition at the gallery since it opened nearly three years ago.
Alison Beevers
Botanical Artist
Alison produces fabrics and papers, which are eco-dyed and printed with flowers grown on her own allotment. She also uses these to produce collographic prints and cyanotypes.
Tracey Page
Mixed Media Artist
Tracey trained in Ceramics, but also produces lino-cuts and finely detailed ink drawings. Her inspiration comes from marine life and plants.
Bev Ramsbotham
Textile Artist
Bev makes tiny needle-felted vignettes inspired by nature and small animals. She also produces intricate embroideries, which are either framed or made into brooches or hanging panels and are painstakingly produced entirely by hand stitching.
Cath Ray Artist/Bookbinder
Cath finds inspiration for her atmospheric paintings and drawings from deserted landscapes and nocturnal townscapes. She also produces handbound sketchbooks and journals from reclaimed and unusual materials.
All four resident artists will open up their studio doors on two dates this year when they will be available all day to talk to visitors about their work. Also on these dates, seven other artists from Artempo will also be around in the gallery and will be available to show visitors around their exhibition and give insight in to how they produce some of the work that will be on display in the exhibition space of the gallery.
Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (closes 2pm Tues). Call: 0780 3204424 or email: raybooks@msn.com for more information.
Artempo is a group of artists based around Retford who support each other, exhibit together and work to promote and reflect on their artistic practice. Their wide range of approaches and techniques will be revealed in their exhibition, which can be seen at the gallery throughout May and June. The group has been running now for a number of years, with a slightly different line-up over time as artists join and move on as life often keeps people on the move.
The exhibition will include paintings, drawings, 3d work and textiles and prints. Visitors are welcome to visit the gallery and exhibition anytime Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (closes at 2pm on Tues). Studio artists and Artempo members will also be taking part in the ‘Blossom Festival’ in the Walled Gardens at Clumber Park on Sun 11 May.
Information will also be available at the open days on all the classes, workshops and courses that run at the gallery throughout the year.
One of the longest running venues in the UK celebrates a landmark centenary of entertaining the great and good with music and dancing.
The Palais in Nottingham - now under the custodianship of DHP Family - turned 100 on 24 April 2025, with a Palais 100 event coming this summer.
Its storied history saw it open in 1925 as the Palais De Danse, one of the finest dancehalls outside of London, hosting elegant tea dances with a live band. As the years rolled on, it started to play host to live bands including The Clash in 1977.
In the late 1970s the venue became famous for its Jazz Funk and Northern Soul all dayers, and the downstairs bar was rebranded as the Bali Hai Room with a revolving dance floor.
Following new ownership and a refit, it left behind its ballroom roots and embraced the nightclub era as Ritzy welcoming a host of famous names and the hugely popular TV show The Hitman and Her.
In 1998, new owners gave it a £2.5million refurb, which included a new updated Globe and restoring the original name. In 2005, it was taken over by the Deltic Group and rebranded as Oceana, later renamed PRYZM. When the owners went into administration last year, DHP Family stepped in to save the venue.
As the leading independent live music company in the UK, DHP is well placed to guide The Palais through the next few years. The Palais is a
welcome addition to the DHP Family in its hometown of Nottingham and will continue to grow as a space to accommodate a considered calendar of events for the city across the year.
Pat Somers, Head of Promotions, DHP Family, said: “We aren’t a big chain of homogeneous clubs, as each of our venues is unique, and this allows us to adapt to customer preferences in a more natural and progressive way; something that has been built into our business culture from the beginning, when Heart of the Midlands became Rock City.”
An eclectic programme has been introduced to The Palais since it reopened in late 2024 from the Notts Pride Winter Ball to huge national student club promoter Cirque Du Soul with headliner Fish56octagon to Palais
reunions and day festivals covering everything from country music, R&B, reggae, trance and more!
Pat continued: “It’s a real privilege to be keeping an important and historic venue like The Palais alive and kicking. Ensuring the life and success of this legendary place for years to come is a huge priority for us.”
Previewing what’s in store, Pat said: “We’re pleased to be welcoming the massive bingo behemoth that is Bongo’s Bingo. They’re celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, so you can expect lots of silliness throughout 2025 with Henry Hoovers and Coco Pops being given away!
“We are growing our live music offering with our Palais Alive series of tribute bands which we will continue
developing throughout the year. We’ve also got the legendary Day Fever coming to the venue, club events with Stealth, headline shows from original artists, boxing matches, and the mighty Dot To Dot Festival will be using us as a venue for the first time this May. Keep an eye out for more announcements in the next month or two as we have lots more up our sleeves!”
The eclectic programming at The Palais attracts a broad demographic of customers to the venue, from the young partygoers at student events, to older clubbers at Northern Soul and reunion nights.
“The beauty of the venue’s history in the city means that so many people have great memories of the space, and we just want
to ensure that we have the right events booked in so that new memories can keep being made for young and old from across Nottingham and beyond,” said Pat.
“Finally, a huge thanks to the people and communities of Nottingham who have supported the venue since we reopened in 2024. A venue is nothing without its audience, so if you see an event you’re interested in, please pay us a visit. The more fantastic events full of fabulous people that we can host, the easier it becomes to secure The Palais’ future for another 100 years!”
Promoters interested in hiring The Palais for their event, the diary is open but filling fast. All the information is on the website: www.thepalais.co.uk
Welbeck, Worksop, S80 3IW
Family Clay: Make a Mobile 29 May
This course is taught by Ruth Waller.
Get hands-on with clay in this nature-inspired session for children ages 7-16 and their parent or guardian.
Learn new skills with your child and sculpt a mobile or wind chime from clay. Take inspiration from nature and sculpt flora and fauna to build up the scene for your hanging mobile.
This session is for children aged 7-16 and their parent or guardian. No prior pottery experience is needed.
We recommend trimming long nails prior to the session, removing any jewellery, and tying back long hair. A parent or guardian must stay with their child at all times.
The session cost includes all materials, tools, clay and firing of your finished pieces.
We will contact you when your pots are ready to collect from our museum, this can take up to 6 weeks. If you haven’t heard from us within this time, please contact us.
If your child is confident working independently, you can make your own creation by purchasing additional clay, glaze + firing as a £10 add-on.
www.harleyfoundation.org.uk
Page opposite: The Palais de Danse opened in 1925. Credit: https://stannswellroad.weebly.com/dance-halll-palais-de-danse.html
This page: images courtesy @louisamaephotos
Marshalls Yard
Gainsborough, DN21 2NA
16 Jun 2025
Marshall's Yard is excited to be hosting our Annual Father's Day Tractors event this June.
On Father’s Day - 16 June between the hours of 10am - 4pm
Expect to exhibit and see up close over 20 original Marshall Tractors and steam engines
Families can also enjoy, free face painting, tractor scavenger hunt, tractor themed craft activities and food vendors. www.marshallsyard.co.uk/ events
The latest cinema releases and live screenings of major exhibitions, famous operas and the best theatre at the Savoy Cinema.
1 May – Thunderbolts
Ensnared in a death trap, an unconventional team of antiheroesYelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster and John Walker - embarks on a dangerous mission that forces them to confront the darkest corners of their pasts.
16 May – Final Destination: Bloodlines
Plagued by a violent and recurring nightmare, a college student heads home to track down the one person who might be able to break the cycle of death and save her family from the grisly demise that inevitably awaits them all.
23 May – Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning
Tom Cruise returns to the role of IMF agent Ethan Hunt who is seeking the location of the destructive A.I. known as the Entity, a search set in motion by the events of the seat-gripping Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning - Part I from 2023.
23 May – Lilo & Stitch
The wildly funny and touching story of a lonely Hawaiian girl and the fugitive alien who helps to mend her broken family.
30 May – Karate Kid
After moving to New York City with his mother, kung fu prodigy Li Fong struggles to let go of the past as he tries to fit in with his new classmates. When a new friend needs his help, Li enters a karate competition - but his skills alone aren't enough. With help from Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso, he soon learns to merge two styles into one for the ultimate martial arts showdown.
13 Jun – How To Train Your Dragon
On the rugged isle of Berk, a Viking boy named Hiccup defies centuries of tradition by befriending a dragon named Toothless. However, when an ancient threat emerges that endangers both species, Hiccup's friendship with Toothless becomes the key to forging a new future.
Elio, an underdog with an active imagination, finds himself inadvertently beamed up to the Communiverse, an interplanetary organisation with representatives from galaxies far and wide. Mistakenly identified as Earth's ambassador to the rest of the universe, he starts to form new bonds with eccentric aliens while discovering who he's truly meant to be.
In the 1990s, Sonny Hayes was Formula 1's most promising driver until an accident on the track nearly ended his career. Thirty years later, the owner of a struggling Formula 1 team convinces Sonny to return to racing and become the best in the world.
It's show time! Grab your popcorn, ice cream and treats, and enjoy all the fun of the theatre here in Nottinghamshire. Here's a few of our favourites.
The Majestic Theatre, Retford 17 May
Following on from their critically-acclaimed 20th Anniversary album and tour, The UK’s No1 vocal harmony quartet and original X Factor stars, G4, now unleash their unique trademark sound on the greatest showstoppers that musical theatre has to offer, for a night you will truly never forget. majesticretford.org
Live & Local: WatsonThe Final Problem Bonnington Theatre, Arnold Leisure Centre, Nottingham 22 May, 7.30pm 1894. Watson is alone. His beloved wife Mary and the great Sherlock Holmes are both gone. But London seethes with false reports and rumour. It is time to set the record straight. A spider’s web of poisonous intrigue lies across the city. Someone is playing a long game and Holmes and Watson face their greatest ever challenge. www.boningtontheatre.co.uk
Live At Lunch: Kylia Tsz Yam Pai
Theatre Royal, Nottingham 23 May
We’re pleased to welcome the winner of the most recent Nottingham Young Musician of the Year, harpist Kylia Tsz Yam Pai. Kylia is currently the youngest harpist in the National Youth Orchestra, has performed with the Nottingham Youth Orchestra and is a member of the Junior Birmingham Conservatoire Symphony Orchestra. trch.co.uk
Talk: The Siege Of Leicester
Newark Palace Theatre, Newark 23 May
In a bloody eight days in May 1645 the Royalist army commanded by King Charles I at-
tacked and brutally sacked Leicester. New archaeological evidence from commercial excavations in Leicester is helping us to reappraise what happened. Join archaeologist Mathew Morris, from University of Leicester Archaeological Services, to find out more about this new research and the fascinating, bloody story of the siege of Leicester. www.palacenewark.com
Sheila's Island
A Comedy By Tim Firth
Retford Little Theatre, Retford
19 – 24 May
Four out-of-condition, businesswomen set off on a team building exercise and succeed in becoming the first people ever to get shipwrecked on an island in the Lake District. Cut off from the world, this middle-class exercise turns into a carnival of recriminations, French cricket and sausages. And what took place on Sheila’s Island that foggy November weekend none of this particular middle-management team would ever forget. www.rlt.org.uk
Songs Of The Bulbul
Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham 3 Jun
Songs of the Bulbul, a new dance work by Aakash Odedra with choreography by Rani Khanam and music by Rushil Ranjan, is inspired by the ancient Sufi myth of a bulbul captured and held in captivity. nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk
The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time, By Simon Stephens
Robin Hood Theatre, Averham, Newark
17 – 21 Jun
The play transfers all the mystery of Mark Haddon's 2003 novel to the stage. It follows a remarkable maths genius who
Dukeries Arts Society
Civic Centre, Carlton-in-Lindrick, S81 9AP
What Have The Huguenots Ever Done For Us?
tries to unravel the mystery of his neighbour's murdered dog, that was found speared by a garden fork. Against his father's orders, and in spite of his own limitations, Christopher sets out on a quest to discover the real truth behind the murder. Unfortunately he unearths more than he bargained for and eventually the secrets of his own life unravel before his very eyes. www.rhtc.co.uk
Of Hope & Glory
The Palace Theatre, Mansfield 18 Jun
Neil Sands and his wonderful cast are back with a new production for 2025 of their most popular patriotic show Land of Hope & Glory. The Best of British Entertainment and especially produced to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the end of The Second World War. VE Day 80. This patriotic and nostalgic afternoon is filled with marvellous and memorable songs, including a rousing selection from Last Night of The Proms, Old Time Sing-alongs, Great British Show Tunes, and ever popular favourites from the 40s 50s & 60s. mansfieldpalace.co.uk
Ring Round The Moon
Lace Market Theatre, Halifax Square, Nottingham 23 Jun
By Christopher Fry and Jean Anouilh. A whimsical jaunt of love, matchmaking, mistaken identities and schemes set in the winter garden of a French country house where a ball is about to commence. May contain firework light and sound effects, please contact the theatre or check auditorium notices for more information. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd.
www.concordtheatricals.co.uk lacemarkettheatre.co.uk
Mass Migration And The Arts In Britain
7 May
Our speaker: Vivienne Lawes. The mass migration of the French Protestant Huguenots in the 16th and 17th Centuries impacted the arts, the military and financial sectors of the Countries to which they fled after suffering Catholic persecution in their homeland. It is estimated that upwards of 50,000 people settled in the British Isles, and that perhaps 1 in 6 of the Country’s population descends from Huguenot lineage.
Lecture On The Borgias; The Most Infamous Family In History
4 Jun
Our speaker: Sarah Dunant. Murder, poison, corruption, and incest: all perfect ingredients for sensational, popular culture. But in an age, known for its brutality and church corruption, were the Borgias really so bad?
This lecture reveals the real family that dominated the Papacy and Italian politics, during the last decade of the 15th century: the charismatic figure of Pope Alexander VI, living inside his sumptuously decorated apartments, the career of his son, Cesare, Cardinal, general, employee of Da Vinci and the model for Machiavelli’s The Prince, and the journey of Lucretia from “the greatest whore in Rome” to a devout and treasured Duchess of the city of Ferrara.
For further planned lectures and details visit: www.theartssociety.org/Dukeries
The Society meet at the Civic Centre, Long Lane, Carlton-inLindrick, S81 9AP. Tea/Coffee is available before the Lecture which starts after notices at 10:50, finishing around 12 noon. Free car parking. Members pay an annual subscription and visitors are welcome paying at the door. For further details on lectures, study/special interest days, theatre trips or the Society in general, please contact Gill on 01909 540506 or Gordon on gordonpmcdougall@gmail.com www.theartssociety.org/Dukeries
Northern Rascals explore mental health, adolescence and change in Sunny Side.
Lakeside Arts, University Park, Nottingham. NG7 2RD. 17 May
Renowned dance-theatre company Northern Rascals are taking their raw and emotional show Sunny Sideon a UK tour this Spring. The Yorkshirebased company will seamlessly combine theatre, contemporary dance and spoken word to explore the modern young male experience and the struggles many men face from adolescent to adulthood. Touring in partnership with Andy’s Man Club, a men’s suicide prevention charity, this deeply moving show will raise awareness of the often-overlooked mental health crisis affecting young people across the UK.
Sunny Side centres around Kas he navigates the tumultuous adolescent journey whilst combatting his personal and social development after the world has been on pause. Set in an unspecified Northern English town, K is increasingly losing his sense of identity and lacks emotional support in the once familiar world around him. In this ever-changingand uncertain environment, K travels through the past, present and future to reconnect.
Imagery: Elly Welford.
Plantlife’s No Mow May is here – let’s give power to the flowers!
Four years in the making, this powerful show delves into the very real mental health epidemic in the UK. Sunny Sidewas developed using the real-life experiences of over 1,420 young people aged 14–30-yearsold across the UK. This testimony has been collected by Northern Rascals to lead into an authentic and informative production where audiences can resonate with unspoken narratives in society andhighlights the company’s commitment to showcasing raw honesty and creating socially impactful work.
The show tackles sensitive issues surrounding mental health using multiple disciplines to form an accurateportrayal of the modern youth experience. Sunny Side opens conversations around these prevalent problems and encourages people to raise awareness and reach out for support.
For more details and to book tickets vist: www. lakesidearts.org.uk/event/ sunny-side
www.northernrascals. com/sunny-side
#NoMowMay is one of the easiest ways to help and connect with wildlife, and the perfect way to start supporting nature in your garden (in May and beyond!).
Join in by letting the wildflowers grow and be part of the No Mow Movement.
No Mow May is Plantlife’s annual campaign urging everyone to pack away the lawnmower, let wildflowers grow freely and help nature. Whether you’re in a city, town or the countryside, it’s super easy to take part.
No lawn is too small! Even the smallest wild patch can provide vital food needed by bees and butterflies, connecting us with nature and giving nature the best start to summer. Why do we need No Mow May?
Approximately 97% of flower-rich meadows have been lost since the 1930s, and with them, vital food and habitat needed by wildlife.
But your garden can help! A healthy lawn with some longer grass and wildflowers helps to tackle pollution, benefits wildlife and can
even lock away carbon below the ground. There are more than 20 million gardens in the UK, so even the smallest grassy patches can add up and deliver enormous gains for nature, people and the climate.
No Mow May is the perfect starting point for summer and leaving a mix of grass lengths in your lawn from #NoMowMay and beyond means you’re giving nature the boost it deserves. Leading on to Let it Bloom June and beyond, this is the perfect time to join the No Mow Movement and manage your garden for nature all year round.
That’s why we’re calling on everyone to give power to the flowers in 2025 and take part in the No Mow Movement!
How to take part?
It’s simple. first of all visit: www.plantlife.org.uk to find out all the details and then sit back and watch the wildlife bloom in your garden or green space. You will be the first to receive resources and badges if you join, at the same time you will be helping us understand how many people and lawns in the country is part of the No Mow Movement.
What a busy time it is for the Nottinghamshire National Garden Scheme with May and June offering lots of new gardens, a new group opening featuring 5 gardens, together with old favourites, visitors will be spoilt for choice. See the gardens looking their best, enjoy tea and cake in the garden and support the National Garden Scheme charity. In 2024 the National Garden Scheme donated £3.5 million pounds to our beneficiaries, providing critical support to nursing and health charities. For a full list of our beneficiaries, please visit ngs.org.uk/beneficiaries
Here are the Nottinghamshire gardens you can visit:
4 May
160 Southwell Road West, Mansfield. NG18 4HB.
1 - 4.30pm
A third of an acre garden with a real mixture of growing environments, including a woodland garden, a sun border, large island beds and a vegetable garden with lots of climbers. The garden owners have a particular interest in woodland plants, agapanthus, fruit and vegetable growing. Sloping site accessible to wheelchair users with some assistance. Dog friendly, plants for sale, refreshments.
11 May
38 Main St. Woodborough, Nottingham. NG14 6EA.
1 – 5pm
Transformed from a lawned garden, this is now an Asian inspired varied garden, with traditional outdoor wood fired Ofuro bath, Asian species area, herbaceous border, a raised species rhododendron bed, vegetables, greenhouse and pond. An art studio with terrace open on the day. Plants for sale, refreshments.
17 & 18 May
NEW GARDEN
Hall Farmhouse, Gonalston, Nottingham. NG14 7JA.
1 – 5pm
Recently acquired established cottage garden, with 3 distinct areas. May brings a riot of colour including wisteria, rhododendron, iris, alliums roses, ceanothus, bluebells and spring bulbs. Herbaceous borders and mature trees, including Paulownia Tomentosa, magnolia, ancient yew and apple trees. An historic pond is being re-developed to attract wildlife. Wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants for sale, refreshments, card payment.
18 May
10 Harlaxton Drive, Lenton, Nottingham. NG7 1JA.
11.30am – 4.30pm
Imaginatively designed garden presented on 3 levels, separated by steep steps with handrails. The top terrace overlooks a large koi pond surrounded by bog plants marginals and herbaceous perennials. Second terrace has seating areas under mature beech trees. A summerhouse sits on the third level with a small pond and densely planted borders. Free on street parking. Dog friendly, plants for sale, refreshments, card payment.
For the latest information and Open Gardens, please visit: www.ngs.org.uk
6 Hope Street, Beeston, Nottingham. NG9 1DR.
1.30 – 5pm
A great example of what can be achieved with a small garden, with masses of planting providing contrasting flower and foliage yearround. Collections of plants including alpines, bulbs, 60+ hostas, ferns, grasses, carnivorous plants, succulents, perennials, shrubs and trees. A plant collectors dream! Pond, tropical plant greenhouse troughs and pots. Some wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants for sale, refreshments.
Norwell Nurseries, Woodhouse Road, Norwell. NG23 6JX.
2 – 5pm
Nationally recognised important plant nursery with extensive gardens showcasing many different garden styles and innovative planting beds with 3000 different beautiful and unusual plants. Nursery open with over 1,500 different, rare plants for sale. Home to the National Collection of Hardy Chrysanthemums and Astrantias. Featured in many gardening magazines and BBC Gardener’s World. Wheelchair access, parking, plants for sale, refreshments.
The Old Vicarage, Halam Hill, Halam. NG22 8AX.
1 – 4.30pm
This 2 acre, organic hillside garden has matured over 28 years into a much admired, popular landscape garden with beautiful views. Newly designed area at bottom of garden. Wildlife pond attracts diverse wildlife to complement planting. Beautiful C12 Church open locally. Some wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants for sale, parking, refreshments, card payments.
Image below: Norwell Nurseries, Clive Nichols. Background image: Hall Farmhouse. Images courtesy of the National Garden Scheme.
NEW GARDEN
Brook Cottage, 41 Church St. Southwell. NG25 0HQ
1 – 5pm
Atypical cottage garden within walking distance of Southwell Minster. Climbing roses, wisteria and clematis adorn cottage front. The rear and side garden which are hidden by clothed arbour and birch trees, will surprise visitors with wildflower meadow/perennial planting to give autumn colour. Plants mostly propagated by the owner. Working area on view. Some wheelchair access, plants for sale, refreshments, card payments.
The Poplars, Cotham Lane, Hawton, Newark. NG24 3RL.
2 – 5pm
This 1.2-acre garden has been extensively remodelled and replanted by current owners. The garden wraps around an early Georgian farmhouse (not open). Explore a number of distinct areas including a white themed formal garden, Mediterranean-style gravel patio and contemporary cottage garden. Masses of spring bulbs. A choir is planned for May featuring the Collingham Singers, which will provide a relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy the garden. Some wheelchair access, dog friendly, plants for sale, refreshments, card payments.
NEW GROUP OPENING.
Mapperley Gardens, 147 Kenrick Road, Nottingham. NG3 6EY.
10am – 4pm
5 gardens open for the first time, showcasing achievable ideas and projects for the average amateur gardener with a small plot. Garden owners will be on hand to discuss how they have developed their garden, and a range of home-made cakes will be available in support of the NGS. Additional parking is available at Mapperley Day nursery on Westdale Lane. We hope for this event to grow annually so if you live nearby and would like to get involved in the future please speak to the garden owners. plants for sale, refreshments, card payments.
The Battle of Stoke Field remains one of the most significant, yet often overlooked, events in the history of the Wars of the Roses. Made goes to visit the Heritage Trail dedicated to the battle ground near East Stoke, where Henry VII triumphed, paving the way for the enduring Tudor dynasty.
Henry VII’s victory at Stoke Field was not just a military triumph; it was a moment of profound political significance that reshaped the course of English history, marking the end of a dynastic struggle that had gripped England for over three decades and sealed the fate of the Yorkist cause.
It is hard to imagine in modern times when you visit the site and its current tranquillity. As we walk around the site, along the Heritage Trail, we rely on the information panels scattered at each key point, to give us a glimpse into the sheer scale of human loss and Henry’s victory.
The Battle of Stoke Field, fought on June 16, 1487, marks the last significant military engagement of the Wars of the Roses—a bitter, decades-long conflict between the houses of York and Lancaster for control of the English throne. Although often overshadowed by the earlier and more celebrated Battle of Bosworth Field (1485), which secured Henry Tudor’s claim to the crown, the Battle of Stoke Field was, in many ways, the decisive end to this bloody dynastic struggle. It was a battle that saw the final attempt to dethrone Henry VII, the first monarch of the Tudor dynasty, and to restore the Yorkist cause.
It’s worth at this stage, before we continue, taking a brief look back at the famous War of the Roses. Beginning in 1455, this was a time rooted in the dynastic and political turmoil following the collapse of the Angevin Empire and the instability of the English monarchy. The war was primarily fought between two rivals; the House of York, represented by the white rose,
and the House of Lancaster, symbolised by the red rose. In 1485, the tides seemed to have turned decisively in favour of the Lancastrians. After years of intermittent conflict, Henry Tudor defeated Richard III, the last Yorkist king, at the Battle of Bosworth Field. Richard’s death marked the end of Yorkist rule and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty, with Henry VII ascending to the throne. Despite his victory, however, Henry faced a kingdom divided, with many Yorkist supporters unwilling to accept his legitimacy.
As we delve further into the history archives, what we find is truly fascinating; we discover that the Battle of Stoke Field was not just a battle over Henry VII’s rule but an actual attempt to undo the settlement made at Bosworth. What’s even more intriguing is that it was a 10-year-old boy, Lambert Simnel who sat at the heart of the rebellion.
Simnel was used as a pawn, presented as the legitimate heir to the throne, specifically as Edward, Earl of Warwick—the son of George, Duke of Clarence, and nephew of Richard III. Curiously, the real Edward, Earl of Warwick, had been imprisoned in the Tower of London by Henry VII, but his absence clearly created an opportunity for a claimant to the throne.
With the backing of influential supporters, Simnel’s claim quickly gathered steam. His rebellion took shape in Ireland, where he was crowned as King Edward VI at Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin in May 1487. From Ireland, the Yorkist rebels sailed across the Irish Sea, gathering more supporters along the way.
Henry VII, aware of the precariousness of his position, quickly mobilised a large army to confront the rebels however he was unpopular with many nobles, some of whom were still loyal to the House of York. Henry’s military response was deliberate and measured. He gathered an army of around 15,000 men, much larger than the Yorkist force, but he knew that his victory would not just be a military one; it would also be a decisive political victory that would solidify his rule and weaken the Yorkist cause once and for all.
The rebel army, numbering around 8,000 men, was composed mainly of poorly armed Irish troops and a contingent of German mercenaries. Despite this disparate composition, the rebels were unified by their loyalty to the Yorkist cause and their desire to unseat Henry VII.
The battle took place near the village of East Stoke, a location chosen by the rebels because it was close to the River Trent, providing a potential escape route if things went wrong. The armies faced off in an open field, and Henry’s forces were arranged in a strong defensive position. Despite being outnumbered, the rebels initially fought with fierce determination, hoping to reverse the outcome of Bosworth and restore the Yorkist line to the throne. However, the battle’s outcome was all but inevitable. The rebels were poorly armed, with many of the Irish soldiers wielding little more than primitive weapons, while the Germans were hampered by their lack of experience with English battle tactics. Most of the key Yorkist commanders were either killed or captured. As the rebels began to break and retreat, they were pursued relentlessly by Henry’s forces, and many were drowned as they tried to flee across the River Trent.
The aftermath of the battle was catastrophic for the Yorkist cause. It is believed that around 7,000 rebels lost their lives, many of whom perished in the chaotic rout. The River Trent is said to have run red with blood, and the area where the slaughter occurred became known as the “Red Gutter”.
Following his crushing victory at Stoke Field, Henry VII took swift action and Lambert Simnel was captured and brought before the king. Despite his role in the rebellion, Henry showed surprising clemency towards the boy. Recognising that Simnel had been little more than a puppet for the Yorkist conspirators, Henry pardoned him and allowed him to live. In an unusual gesture of mercy, he even offered Simnel a position in the royal household, first as a kitchen boy and later as a falconer.
The defeat at Stoke Field effectively ended the major Yorkist challenges to Henry VII’s rule. Although pockets of Yorkist resistance would persist in the form of smaller uprisings and plots, none of them were as significant as the rebellion of 1487. By the time of his death in 1509, Henry had firmly established the Tudor dynasty.
The Heritage Trail is a fascinating opportunity to discover more of this battle site. We’d certainly recommend good walking shoes (there are some muddy patches). It took us around an hour and 15 mins to walk around. You can take your dogs, if you wish to, but they need to stay on leads. Also, there are no toilets at the site – just worth noting before you set off!
There are five information panels to look out for:
• The background to the battle (start of the trail at Trent Lane)
• How the battle was fought
• The end of the battle
• The battle burials
• The medieval village of East Stoke
Before you go, there’s a great video you can watch on the history surrounding the battle and what actually happened during the conflict. You can find this here: www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/culture-leisure/heritage/ battle-of-stoke-field
A downloadable information sheet is also available here: www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/media/1494449/battlefieldleaflet.pdf
You can also read about the Heritage Trail on the Battlefields Trust website by selecting the Battle of Stoke Field section: www.battlefieldstrust.com/resource-centre/warsoftheroses
Directions to the site:
The starting point for the walk is on Trent Lane (SK 746485), which is diagonally opposite Eden Hall Day Spa.
Bus - The battlefield is located near number 90 bus route from Newark to Nottingham and the number 91 bus route from Bingham to Newark. Outside Eden Hall spa entrance.
There are laybys located on the left-hand side and the righthand side of the Fosse Road about 300 yards from the start of the battlefield trail.
The Wildlife Trusts have issued the call to join us this June to explore nature with fun challenges for all ages as the countdown to #30DaysWild 2025 gets underway.
You can join thousands of nature lovers from across the county and country this June in exploring the wild through fun challenges, creative ideas, and plenty of magical outdoor moments. 30 Days Wild is the ideal opportunity to reconnect with nature, to take a break from screens and step into nature with The Wildlife Trusts on the UK’s biggest nature challenge.
We’re here to help you have the best time imaginable by engaging in simple yet meaningful outdoor activities that will boost your well-being, spark your inner creativity, help you reconnect with your local patch and our planet.
After a decade of success, we’ve lined up a host of fresh ideas to deliver pure outdoor magic as we embark on our wildest June yet. As well as welcoming back 30 Days Wild devotees –we want to extend a warm welcome to first timers who’ve yet to discover what it's all about. The concept is wildly simple – the aim is to do something linked to nature each day through June. Everything counts, from enjoying your first brew of the day in your garden listening to the bird song to planting a tree, visiting a nature reserve you’ve never been to before or trying a spot of volunteering – the options are endless.
With so many options, you might be spoilt for choicebut we’ll be on hand every step of the way with advice, ideas and support. From mini outdoor missions to mindful moments, we’ve got loads up our sleeve and can’t wait to help you connect with nature as summer gets under way. You can check out the nature in your neighbourhood, set out to explore wild spots across north Nottinghamshire or break out beyond county borders with a yomp in Yorkshire or a spot of rock pooling on the east coast.
30 Days Wild this June is also about letting the great outdoors refresh your mind, body, and soul - so why not share the love with a friends and family who could use a little more wild in their lives?
Locally there are so many sites to choose from, from the wild expanses of Idle Valley Nature Reserve to the tranquil waters of Daneshill Lakes to the dappled shade of Treswell, Eaton & Gamston Woods. A little further afield you could explore our Besthorpe Nature Reserve alongside the Trent north of Newark before heading to the RSPB’s Langford Lowfields next door. If you’re making a day of it, you could also head down to our Attenborough
Nature Centre south of Nottingham which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary or pop into the city to check out Nottingham’s Green Heart.
Whether you fancy a wild adventure every day or just choose to take a few moments to let a little more nature, it really is up to you, and we’ll be on hand, with everything from themed weeks to suggestions for activities you can enjoy at home or whilst out and about. The important thing is that 30 Days Wild is all about making time for nature in whatever way suits you best.
Spending time outdoors isn’t just refreshing, it’s proven to reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance well-being. You really have nothing to lose, so why not sign up for your free pack of resources today whilst there’s plenty of time to start planning your wild June? Follow our weekly themes and take part in a way that works for you— whether it’s one wild thing a day or a few activities throughout the week.
Activities you could try including a litter pick or beach clean, growing wildlife friendly plants, leaving food and water out or building homes for wildlife. You could explore the local
landscape on a bike ride or woodland walk, try wildlife yoga or set up a game of sensory bingo.
If you want to learn more about the species around us, you could download a spotter guide or wildlife I.D App to see how many creatures you can find in your garden or on your local patch; you could also join a wildlife walk or talk and learn from experts. You could also read a book about wildlife. As well as reading about wildlife you could start your very own nature journal or get creative and make a wild picture using natural objects such as fallen leaves, petals, feathers, twigs and seed heads.
From ancient woodlands to blooming meadows, the UK’s wild spaces need your help – so you could look into volunteering or choose to fundraise for a local nature charity or group whilst exploring, protecting, and enjoying nature on your doorstep. From spotting beautiful bees to planting wildflowers, it’s the perfect way to connect with the outdoors and make nature a part of your daily buzz!
Tucked away behind an unassuming door on Angel Row, right in the bustling heart of Nottingham, lies a hidden treasure—a place of stories, solace, and social charm. Bromley House Library, a literary oasis where the past and present blend seamlessly. Made knocks on the door…
We admit it, we are not sure what to expect, and we are very curious… As we step inside, and reach the top of the stairs, we are immediately surrounded by warmth. The walls decked head to toe in bookshelves are a true feast for the eyes. There’s a feeling of belonging here, an atmosphere that invites you to linger a little longer. We learn here that over 50,000 books are available, each whispering its own tale.
The rooms are ornate yet intimate, rich with history yet alive with the energy of the present. It’s the kind of place where you can curl up in a grand reading room with a cup of tea or tuck yourself away in a quiet corner, lost in your book. There’s even a cosy coffee room where you can make your own hot drink—because what’s a good book without a good brew?
Let’s make this clear, Bromley House Library isn’t just about books, well it is of course, but what we mean is, it’s an experience. The Grade II* listed Georgian townhouse, built in 1752, has seen its fair share of tales, reinvention, and transformation. Once a luxurious home, then a hub for intellectuals, and now a haven for bibliophiles, it has stood the test of time with a quiet elegance. Its famous spiral staircase—an architectural wonder—seems to defy gravity, twisting gracefully between the reading rooms. It’s the first thing we noticed when we arrived, really quite stunning. And once we ventured outside, we discovered a walled garden, the kind of secret green retreat you always imagine in your mind, certainly an unexpected tranquil hideaway amid Nottingham’s hustle and bustle.
Despite its rich heritage, Bromley House remains a wellkept secret, a sanctuary known only to those lucky enough
to stumble upon it. Unlike conventional libraries, it offers a uniquely personal experience, operating through an annual membership subscription. We learn that members can browse its treasure trove of contemporary fiction, historical tomes, and fascinating non-fiction, all carefully curated, with access to all genres.
What seems to be a major draw to members, in addition to its fascinating and broad offering (over a thousand new books are added each year) is that it has become a social hotspot. Members form lively hobby groups, book clubs, and photography circles, and the year-round events calendar brims with talks, author evenings, history lectures, and literary celebrations. Whether you’re listening to a bestselling writer discuss their latest novel or delving into Nottingham’s photographic past, or want to join the knitting group, you’ll never be short of inspiration or company. But we are reassured, for the introverts or those seeking solace amongst us, it is also a place where you can come to relax, take in the surroundings and immerse yourself in whatever it is you wish to read, without risk of interruption. We certainly felt that as we walked around, discovering each room. It felt lively and sociable and yet incredibly peaceful at the same time.
Despite its deep historical roots, Bromley House is anything but outdated. While it champions the charm of print, offering a wide selection of newspapers and publications daily for members to read, it also embraces the digital age with an online store, making selected books and special gifts (including membership gift packs) more accessible. It also operates a click and collect service so you can order your goodies and then come in to enjoy the surroundings and pick them up.
“Bromley House is the epitome of a library. When I close my eyes and think of a library this is exactly what I have in my mind.”
Bromley House’s management team are keen champions of celebrating local literary work, have close ties to other libraries and institutions across the city, and collaborate closely with contemporary authors and literary influencers. In doing so, they ensure it remains a forward-thinking cultural hub.
Whilst we are here, we meet with Matt Dolman, Development Manager and Clare Brown, Library Director, who kindly gave us the full insight on past, present, future, and it was very clear during our chat that the library is loved not just for its nod to a bygone era but also because it has struck the right balance between bringing ‘analogue’ to the table but also turning its pages progressively to sit alongside the digital age. The shop and its online event booking link are both popular examples. “We welcome everyone here”, Matt says with a smile. “All ages, backgrounds, and interests, and we are seeing an increasing number of younger members who admire our ‘one foot in the past and one foot in the present’ approach. Younger readers are really encouraged, we see students enjoying the peaceful study space, and lifelong learners use our resources to expand their horizons.”
We spoke to a local student, Priya Kavadia, who is studying International Media and Communications, and has been enjoying a placement with the Bromley House team. “I agree with Matt, not many younger people were aware of the beauty of print in this digital age, but once they discover it, they love it. I certainly do. This place is very special and still feels relevant whilst showcasing the past.”
Matt adds “We continue to grow in popularity. I think this is due to many things, particularly our unique setting, and you will see things here that you will find nowhere else in the world,
(the library has its own extensive historic collections to view), but also our members have made this such a special space. As a charity, we rely on their passionate support. You know, many of them help with book restoration, shelf tidying, taking down and putting up collections, helping out with events, the garden, so much more. It’s a real community, a testament I think to how much we love the place.”
For Clare, it is the uniqueness of the library’s layout that particularly stands out. “There have been so many stories here in this house, its family, and the wonderful heritage of the Nottingham Subscription Library that started here, and we were the location of the first photographic studio in the region. It’s quite a catalogue. And we of course have one of only three Meridian Lines in the UK.”
We were really intrigued by the Meridian Line, which can be found in their Standfast Room. A fine line on the floor and a shutter by the window with a small aperture in it. The line is oriented to point due North/South, so that at the solar noon, a small patch of sunlight passes through the shutter and crosses the line. Few meridian lines survive in England, but the one here at Bromley House has been here since the 1820s and still works beautifully.
Clare adds fondly “Bromley House is the epitome of a library. When I close my eyes and think of a library this is exactly what I have in my mind. The fact it sits within a heritage building is a major plus. And what we have here differs from other libraries because it was once a home and therefore each room is different from the next, each offering unique spaces to enjoy. You know, other libraries look and feel wonderful, but often follow the same design and feel, throughout,
whereas we can give that added mystery and intrigue because every room is so different.”
We asked Clare and Matt how open and accessible the library is, given that it is an annual subscription members library, and they were really keen to explain how broad their year-round event offering is and that it is designed for everyone, members and visitors.
“We work hard to put together a really broad cultural offering that celebrates our love of literature”, explains Matt “and we want as many people as possible to enjoy this and our beautiful space. Our events are published on our What's On page on the website all year round and tickets can be bought online.”
“There’s something for everyone”, Clare adds, “and our events often serve as a gateway for future members – once you come here and see it, feel, it, you want to be a part of the library, and we are so proud that it is such a comforting, welcoming space.
“As you would expect of course, many literary events take place with author talks and readings, book launches, in-conversations and events with literary partners. We welcomed last year renowned authors including Mike Gayle, Elizabeth Chadwick, and Kit de Waal, and this year, from April onwards we will be celebrating Dorothy Whipple and looking at the work of architect George Gilbert Scott, which will be fascinating. We are also welcoming leading academics to discuss the transatlantic colonial economy and have a book launch about the last work of fiction by Charles Dickens.”
Quite the offering. We also learn there is a newsletter to sign up for, through the website which we have done, so we’ll know what’s on and coming up throughout the year. We discuss various opportunities to visit the library, including an offer for book groups or other social groups. Research visits and group tours are also possible by contacting them directly, and the library is often booked out for private events, meeting space, and photo shoots. “We even have a hen night being planned here!” laughs Clare.
“They are coming for a quiet evening of board games, a pot of tea, and just enjoying one another’s company, so we are approached for many diverse reasons and it’s lovely to be a part of someone’s story. We also take care to book events and room hire out of opening hours so our members are not disturbed as we will always ensure that we offer solace and tranquillity here.”
Matt and Clare also give us plenty of information on their popular History Tours, taking place on selected Sundays and lasting around an hour. These give people a real understanding of the building, its heritage, and some of its hidden secrets. “It’s a great way to discover our collections, admire each room and its features, and learn more about our members from the past”, explains Matt. “After the tour, which includes the garden, we will also give you chance to see some of our rarer books and see how we care for the collections. It’s really fascinating.
Bromley House was built in 1752 for George Smith, grandson of the founder of Smith’s Bank, the oldest known provincial bank in the county. The building has been awarded Grade II* listed status and in addition to its wonderful period features is home to a large collection of historical artefacts, features some fine paintings, and a walled garden.
Nottingham Subscription Library (the former name of Bromley House Library) was formed in 1816, one of the first subscription libraries, long before public libraries. Membership was originally gained through the purchase of share, capped at 265 members.
As well as literature, the library gained a reputation for its collections relating to history and science, including being the initial home of Nottingham’s Natural History Society, the site of Nottingham’s meridian line (which still survives to this day) and the home of the first photographic studio in the Midlands in 1841. Financial pressures led to the conversion of the ground floor of the building to create lettable space for shops in 1929. Bromley House Library obtained charitable status in 1998 and the cap on membership was lifted, opening up membership to all adults on payment of an annual subscription.
We have had a wonderful time here. And we will be back. There’s still so much to discover and enjoy. For our readers, we urge you step through that mysterious door on Angel Row and discover a world of literary wonder. The best stories aren’t just read—they’re experienced. And Bromley House Library is waiting to share its story with you.
Events and the Sunday History Tours must be booked in advance via the website or over the phone. If you are interested in becoming a member, visit the website, call or e-mail the library to find out more.
Regrettably Bromley House Library can't offer ad-hoc visits, but when you do book to visit the team will make you very welcome. Full details are available on the website: www.bromleyhouse.org
Bromley House Library
Angel Row, Nottingham. NG1 6HL Tel: 0115 947 3134
Email: enquiries@bromleyhouse.org
Follow Bromley House Library on social media: @bromleyhouselib @BromleyHouse Opening Hours
Monday: 9.30am – 5pm Tuesday: 9.30am – 5pm Wednesday: 9.30am – 7pm
Thursday: 9.30am – 5pm Friday: 9.30am – 5pm Saturday: 9.30am – 4pm
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When we talk about ‘home’, we’re describing a place where we can live, a place of security where we feel comfortable and, hopefully, happy too. Sherwood Forest is home to many things.
By Robert James, Sherwood Forest & Budby South Forest.
Of course, it is home to the Legend of Robin Hood, and the many, many ballads and tales which have captivated people for centuries, and still inspire storytellers.
This summer, Sherwood will host the Robin Hood Festival once again. It will be the 39th time the festival has taken place here, surely long enough to be called home to the world’s premier celebration of its most famous outlaw.
It is home to the Major Oak, one of Britain’s most recognisable trees; an ancient English oak tree which was already several centuries old by the time Columbus had reached the Americas in the late 15th Century.
Alongside the Major Oak, are hundreds of other living ancient oaks; an internationally significant assemblage which forms one of the rarest landscapes in Europe.
At the time of writing, each of these oaks is undergoing a health check, carried out by an independent specialist who will be assessing the trees’ structural soundness, among other factors. Each of these oaks is a nature reserve in its own right. It is estimated that a single tree can support up to 2,300 species of bird, mammal, invertebrate, fungi and plant.
Another word for home is ‘habitat’, defined as ‘the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism’. Within their internal cavities is the decaying wood which provides a vital habitat for some of our most unusual types of invertebrate – saproxylics.
These varieties depend on decaying or even dead wood for part or all of their life-cycles. The presence of these invertebrates is part of a complex food web which has functioned in the forest for centuries, if not millennia.
The ancient oaks and the saproxylic invertebrate population are the reason why Sherwood has been a Site of Special Scientific Interest for 70 years now and is also a Special Area of Conservation. Let’s not forget too that Sherwood Forest is home to Nottinghamshire’s only National Nature Reserve.
The UK’s three resident species of woodpecker – Green, Great Spotted and Lesser Spotted – are here year-round, while summer visitors including the Redstart and Nightjar continue to fly in from their wintering grounds overseas to spend the warmer months in the forest.
Managing a nature reserve also requires creating the optimal conditions for a variety of species to flourish. Our homes may or may not be tidy, but nature is not. Until humans occupied Sherwood, wood which fell to the
ground in a storm would have been left to decay where it lay, rather than being collected and ‘tidied away’. That decaying wood provided a vital habitat to a whole range of organisms, both above and below ground.
Today, wood that you may see placed on the ground or a dead tree left standing in place on the reserve is all about providing those habitats once again. Arborists will be at the reserve in May, stabilising two standing dead oaks – or ‘hulks’ – to retain that precious decaying wood, or ‘red rot’, as it is also known.
Bees have established natural hives within ancient oaks –we even have a tree in the forest named ‘The Bee Tree’ which becomes mesmerising to watch in the summer months as the honeybees come and go.
The Major Oak itself lives within its own enclosure, encircled by a fence since the 1970s when efforts began in earnest to decompact the sandy acid soil around its roots. Following the guidance and scientific evidence provided by soil and tree health specialists, the RSPB is aiming to enhance the biodiversity of the Major’s home.
Over the past two winters, we have been carrying out vital root restoration work to improve water and oxygen flow; work which will continue for at least another three years. We have installed soil sensors to provide data which includes temperature, moisture content, oxygen and pH levels, among other vital information in real time. Attached to the tree are dendrometer devices, which tell us how water uptake from rainfall affects the growth and contraction of the tree.
We are also following guidance to allow the vegetation around the base of the tree to grow ‘wild’, as it would have done for centuries. This allows roots from grasses and flowering plants to establish and play their part in breaking
up the compacted earth around the Major Oak. As a result, this approach has revealed that the enclosure is also home to plant species such as Selfheal, Coltsfoot, Queen Anne’s Lace, Wild Raspberry and orchids too.
Sherwood Forest is a wonderful place to connect with nature, but key to that experience is respecting the fact that it is a home, first and foremost, to nature. Here you can find an abundance of species, from the smallest invertebrate to the one of the mightiest oak trees to be found anywhere in the British Isles.
Our work aims to ensure that they can all thrive here for centuries to come.
Get in touch.
We always like hearing from supporters or visitors to Sherwood Forest. You can email your thoughts to sherwoodforest@rspb.org.uk visitsherwood.co.uk www.rspb.org.uk
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Timeless treasures meet modern luxe—here’s how to strike the perfect balance at home from the team at Décor Clever.
There’s something undeniably chic about a home that tells a story—and right now, it’s vintage doing the talking. From mid-century sideboards to ornate mirrors and time-worn ceramics, antique and retro pieces are making a confident comeback in UK interiors. But this isn’t about creating a museum. The real art lies in the mix: blending old with new to achieve that lived-in elegance that feels both curated and effortless.
So how do you do it without tipping into cluttered or kitsch? Start with one standout vintage piece—perhaps an Art Deco drinks trolley or a 1970s armchair—and let it anchor the room. Surround it with contemporary textures and clean lines to give it breathing space. A sleek modular sofa next to a Louis XVI console? Absolutely.
The key is contrast. Think weathered woods against polished marble, patinated brass beside matte black. And don’t be afraid of bold pairings—an abstract modern artwork hung above a gilded antique fireplace can feel fresh and editorial, not fussy.
As interior designer Kelly Wearstler puts it, “Mixing the old with the new breathes soul into a space. It’s where personality lives.” That sentiment is at the heart of this trend—style that’s layered, lived-in, and entirely your own.
Layer in smaller touches, too: vintage glassware on open shelving, a retro lampshade in an otherwise minimal room, or heirloom china styled unexpectedly in a hallway alcove. These nods to the past add soul and sophistication without overwhelming the space.
Ultimately, vintage isn’t just a style—it’s a sensibility. When done well, it’s not just beautiful—it’s timeless.
For interior inspiration, classic and modern pieces visit: Décor Clever online and find that statement piece that speaks to you!
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From earthy calm to bold statements, this year’s interior palette brings nature indoors with a refined twist.
As we step into 2025, UK interiors are embracing a rich, grounded aesthetic that nods to nature while leaving room for expressive, individual flair. This year’s palette is about balance—between serenity and drama, softness and saturation. Whether you're refreshing a single room or reimagining your entire home, these colour trends offer timeless appeal with a contemporary edge.
1. Earthy Neutrals
Soft browns, warm greys, and sandy taupes are leading the charge toward calming, cocoon-like spaces. These hues work effortlessly in living areas and bedrooms, especially when layered with organic textures like linen, wood, and greenery.
2. Deep Greens
Olive, moss, and forest tones evoke a sense of grounding and wellness. Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, they pair beautifully with brass fittings and natural stone, offering a luxurious, yet understated backdrop.
3. Dusty Blues
Chalky, vintage-tinged blues like slate, denim, and powder are making waves in bedrooms and studies. These hues exude quiet confidence and nostalgia—perfect for spaces that crave tranquillity with a hint of character.
4. Warm Terracotta
Terracotta, clay, and muted peach bring sun-baked Mediterranean warmth to any home. Whether used on a feature wall or in accessories, these tones create an inviting, lived-in feel when balanced with soft whites or pale greys.
5. Vibrant Accents
Bolder statements are being made with accents of rich burgundy, deep red, and Yves Klein blue. Whether in upholstery, artwork, or statement pieces, these shades add drama and sophistication without overwhelming the space.
6. Colour Drenching
One of the year’s standout techniques, colour drenching involves coating walls, ceilings, and woodwork in a single hue for a fully immersive experience. Ideal for smaller spaces or moody corners, it’s a bold move that pays off with high design impact.
In 2025, colour is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating mood, story, and comfort. This year's trends invite you to express personality through palette, with timeless tones that feel both grounded and elevated.
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Andrew's interest in furniture began in his childhood on Exmoor, where he spent much of his time crafting various items from wood, including bows and arrows made from willow, walking sticks, and bird boxes. This hands-on experience inspired him to pursue a first-class degree and a master's in furniture design and craftsmanship.
With over 25 years of experience in project management, design, and the manufacturing of bespoke furniture, Andrew leads a small, talented team dedicated to designing and crafting unique pieces for interiors.
The team takes a personalised, collaborative approach to every project for both domestic and commercial clients. From the initial consultation—where they discuss style, preferences, and functional needs—to the final installation, the team works closely with clients to bring their dream furniture to life. They understand that the space where the furniture will be placed is just as important as the design itself. By considering factors such as room layout, lighting, and flow, they ensure each piece integrates seamlessly into the home.
Their design philosophy is rooted in collaboration, allowing them to understand clients' visions and the unique characteristics of their spaces. Drawing inspiration from contemporary trends and timeless designs, they create bespoke pieces that reflect the individual style and needs of each client.
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From first impressions to final offers—insider tips to help you make smart moves whether you're buying your first home or preparing to sell.
1. What key factors do estate agents look for when a seller instructs them to list a property for sale?
When a seller instructs an estate agent they look at several key factors: the property's condition, location, unique selling points (like a south-facing garden, off-street parking, or proximity to good schools), and legal readiness (title deeds, EPC certificate, etc.). They also consider how realistically the seller understands current market conditions, as pricing expectations play a huge role in success.
2. How do the agents assess the market value of a property, and what influences this valuation the most?
The agent conducts a comparative market analysis, looking at similar properties sold recently in the area. Factors that most influence the valuation include location, size, condition, local amenities, school catchments, and transport links. Market trends and seasonal demand also play a part—spring and early summer, for example, tend to see more buyer activity.
3. What common mistakes do property owners make when preparing their homes for sale, and how can they avoid them?
One common mistake is over-personalising or neglecting basic maintenance—buyers need to imagine themselves living there. Another is overpricing, which can put people off and lead to the property sitting stale on the market. Most agents would advise: neutralise décor, declutter, fix obvious issues, and take pricing advice seriously.
4. How important is curb appeal in attracting potential buyers, and what quick improvements can sellers make to enhance it?
Curb appeal is hugely important—it forms a buyer's first impression. Quick fixes include tidying the garden, repainting the front door, adding potted plants, cleaning windows, and making sure the bins are out of sight. These small touches can really elevate a property’s perceived value.
5. What role does staging or presentation play in selling a property?
Presentation is everything. Buyers are swayed by how a property feels. Light, space, and flow are key—so staging can help a home sell faster and for a better price. While not everyone needs full professional staging, for higher-end or vacant homes, agents may often recommend it. For others, simple steps like rearranging furniture, fresh flowers, or light decor updates can go a long way.
6. How does an agent handle properties that are struggling to sell—what strategies are employed to increase interest?
Estate agents will start by analysing the feedback and reviewing their own marketing. Often, a fresh set of photos or a price adjustment can reignite interest. They also consider re-listing, boosting online visibility, or offering incentives like paid stamp duty. In some cases, sometimes they may recommend a staging consultation or minor improvements.
7. What advice would an agent give sellers about setting an asking price in today’s market conditions?
Price realistically. The market has cooled slightly in some regions, so aiming too high can lead to delays. Agents advise setting a price that aligns with current local demand and recent sold comparables. Sometimes pricing slightly under market value can spark competition and achieve better results than overpricing and having to reduce later.
To summarise, focus on key factors such as condition, location, standout features, and legal readiness. Accurate pricing is crucial, and agents use comparative market analysis, considering local sales, amenities, and market trends to guide valuations. Sellers often make the mistake of overpersonalising or overpricing, both of which can deter buyers. Enhancing curb appeal with simple touches like tidy gardens, along with thoughtful staging, helps create a strong first impression and emotional connection. Ultimately, realistic pricing based on current demand is the foundation of a successful sale.
8. When advising buyers, what are the most important factors to consider when choosing a property in the current market?
Location is still king—think long-term value, local amenities, transport, schools, and potential for development. Also look at the energy efficiency of the property (important for future running costs), and be realistic about condition and what you’re willing to take on. In today’s market, flexibility and preparation (e.g. having a mortgage in principle) can give you a competitive edge.
9. How should first-time buyers navigate the complexities of purchasing a home, particularly in terms of understanding legal processes or hidden costs?
Get a good solicitor and a mortgage broker early on— they’re worth their weight in gold. Factor in stamp duty (if applicable), survey costs, legal fees, insurance, and moving costs. It is often recommended that first-timers attend a buyer workshop or download a reputable checklist. Ask questions—take a list that you can think of it you can.
10. What are some warning signs that a property may not be a sound investment, and what should buyers look for to avoid potential pitfalls?
Structural issues (like cracks or damp), poor-quality DIY work, unusually low asking prices, or properties that have been on the market for a long time without clear reason are all red flags. Always get a survey—don’t skip it to save money. Also look into future development plans in the area— sometimes they can negatively affect a property's value.
Always thinking about having a good old tidy up, but never quite getting round to it? You’re not alone.
By Lauren White, UnJumble.
Research by Olio, an app for sharing your unwanted items, found that 43% of Britons don’t make time to declutter, though 7 in 10 of us feel stressed by clutter.
Many of us hang on to things because we think we might need to use them again (even if it’s been a decade since we last did!) or because we feel emotionally attached to them. Often, it’s difficult to even know where to start, or what options there are if you’d prefer to recycle or give things a new lease of life.
If you’re feeling in a slump with the stuff in your home, try these tips for tidying:
1. Set a timer and just get going!
Sometimes the best thing is to just give it a go. Start with one small area (for example, your desk) and set a timer for ten minutes. Treat it as an experiment. Tell yourself, ‘I’m just going to give it ten minutes and see how it goes’. Often, when we break things down into smaller chunks and take the pressure off (I’m just giving it a go - not I have to complete this entire mammoth task right now), we find that it actually feels good. And that gives us a bit more motivation to carry on!
2. Create comforting spaces away from overwhelm
Having one space, however small, that gives you comfort and a breather is all you need to start with. Somewhere your mind can associate with peace and where you can practise breathing exercises, gratitude, mindfulness – or just enjoy a cuppa! It could be a shady tree in the garden or even sitting under your duvet with some essential oils.
3. Allow yourself some leeway
Perhaps you collect magazines, calendars, leaflets, scraps of fabric, and more because you love the idea of crafting or can’t bear to let go of beautiful pictures. Whatever it is, if it’s something you do indulge in from time to time, set aside space for them. You could have one box or basket that you keep these things in. When it’s full, something has to go. This is a great way to regularly review what you’ve got and encourage you to take action.
4. Lay down the law - lovingly
Setting yourself simple rules can help you keep on top of your stuff. Think about what you want to spend your time doing. Is it tidying and managing the flow of things in and out of your home? There might have to be an element of that – for example, if you’ve got kids and all that comes with them! – but how do you want it to look? How long should it take? Then think about the reasons you have for wanting to clear your space or create manageable systems. Write yourself a statement that you can use to check in with when you feel the urge to splurge or hold on to something. It might be that you want clear communal spaces for family time, or that you want to be free to focus on your art. Whatever it is, physically write it down and ask yourself if your current actions will help you achieve it.
Lauren White - Unjumble Mental Wellness Coach & Trainer and Declutterer & Organiser.
For details visit: www.unjumble.uk
5. Progress over perfection
Most importantly, be kind to yourself as you go. Encouraging rather than berating yourself means you're much more likely to have success with whatever you set your mind to.
Transform your little patch of outdoor space into a peaceful retreat with clever planting, styling, and space-saving tricks.
Not everyone has a sprawling garden to call their own, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor space can’t be an oasis. Whether it’s a balcony, a small patio, or even just a few square feet of urban pavement, there’s plenty you can do to create a green sanctuary. With a little imagination and the right tips, even the most compact garden can feel like a lush retreat.
Vertical planting is your best friend. Think of your outdoor space as a vertical canvas—when you’re working with limited floor space, go up! Vertical planters, trellises, and hanging baskets are perfect for adding greenery without taking up room. Climbers like jasmine, ivy, or sweet peas are not only visually stunning, but they also add fragrance and privacy. You can even use simple shelves to hold pots or small trees, which makes the most of your space while adding structure.
Balcony gardens can be just as lush as full-size plots. A balcony is a fantastic place for a garden if you get a little creative. Use lightweight furniture and fold-away seating to maximise space for plants. Look for spaceefficient solutions like narrow planter boxes, stackable pots, and modular planters. Don't forget to include some cosy lighting—fairy lights or lanterns can transform the atmosphere as evening falls.
Clever layout tricks can change everything. The way you layout your space is everything. Divide your small garden into 'zones' with furniture placement or plants to create the illusion of more space. Use mirrors to reflect light and visually expand the area. And don’t underestimate the power of texture—layering different materials, from gravel paths to wooden decking, adds depth and interest.
Gardener and writer Monty Don said, “A garden is a place to dream, to escape, and to nourish the soul. Even in a small space, it can be an expression of who you are.” And this couldn’t be more true when it comes to your own urban retreat.
Architect and designer Tom Dixon echoes this idea: “The key to small spaces is creating rooms within rooms. Think of your outdoor space as another room of your home and treat it with the same care and attention.” By considering how you use every inch of your garden, you can create a stylish, functional, and serene space to unwind in after a busy day.
In the end, the best thing about a small garden is that it’s completely yours. With the right planting, furniture, and a bit of creativity, you’ll soon have a space you’ll love—and one that will be the envy of all your friends.
“A garden is a place to dream, to escape, and to nourish the soul. Even in a small space, it can be an expression of who you are.”
Monty Don
From planting to pruning, cultivate your garden and support wildlife this spring and early summer. By Dene Wood, Head Gardener at Clumber Park.
As the days stretch and grow warmer, May and June are prime months to be busy in our gardens. We flip over from raising plants to caring for them, and most importantly, we get to soak up the sun while we do it. It’s arguably the zenith of the gardening calendar. Here’s a few jobs to give you an excuse to get outside.
the vegetable patch
With the risk of frost almost gone we can plant out half-hardy plants raised under glass and sow sweetcorn, dwarf beans, climbing beans and courgettes directly outdoors.
Any tomato and cucumbers raised on windowsills can move to the greenhouse or a sunny south facing wall now too.
Thin row-sown seedlings like carrots and beetroot to ensure strong growth but do this on a breezy day to avoid attracting root fly. In June, once most of the plants are in the ground, keep up with successional sowing of salad crops like lettuce and radishes. You can start to enjoy some early harvests such as early potatoes, peas and broad beans. Don’t overlook delicious edible flowers.
Flower garden
May is the time to plant out summer bedding plants such as petunias, marigolds, and cosmos after hardening off. Have you considered replacing bedding plants with more climatefriendly and less labour-intensive perennials and bulbs?
Prune spring-flowering shrubs like forsythia and Chaenomeles after they finish blooming, and deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. The much-loved dahlias and cannas can be planted out, and tie in new shoots of climbing plants like clematis and honeysuckle.
Bumblebees and birds are nesting, and hedgehogs are active. Where you can, leave caterpillars on plants for birds to feed their young. Sow nectar-rich flowers like poppies and cornflowers to support pollinators. In June, maintain bird feeders and create habitats like bee hotels. Keep an eye out for fledgling birds and provide fresh water sources for wildlife.
All the best, Dene
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This modern corner masterpiece, complete with a slatted coffee table, is designed to bring instant cool to your outdoor haven. With its chunky, confident lines and fuss-free silhouette, it’s a true head-turner - whether you’re all about minimalist chic or bohemian lounging.
This modern corner masterpiece, complete with a slatted coffee table, is designed to bring instant cool to your outdoor haven. With its chunky, confident lines and fuss-free silhouette, it’s a true head-turner - whether you’re all about minimalist chic or bohemian lounging.
Crafted in rich eucalyptus wood with a sumptuous oiled finish and sleek powder-coated metal legs, this set doesn’t just sit pretty - it reigns supreme in style and substance.
Crafted in rich eucalyptus wood with a sumptuous oiled finish and sleek powder-coated metal legs, this set doesn’t just sit pretty - it reigns supreme in style and substance.
The history of Rother Valley is fascinating, shaped by both natural processes and human activities over centuries. Like many parts of the UK, Rother Valley has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological finds in the region suggest that early humans inhabited the valley, likely due to its fertile land and proximity to water sources. The broader area contains remnants of prehistoric settlements, tools, and burial sites, although Rother Valley itself has not been the focus of extensive excavation. The River Rother would have provided a key resource for ancient communities.
During the Roman period, the valley would have been part of a more developed network of roads, settlements, and agricultural areas. The Romans built towns and infrastructure across much of England, and the valley's location made it essential for trade and communication.
By the medieval period, the area surrounding Rother Valley was likely part of the estates of local lords. The region was primarily agricultural, with farming communities working the fertile lands along the river.
The historical Bedgreave Mill is an excellent example of the area's early industrial history. It was one of the first water-powered mills in the area, processing grain and possibly other materials. This mill continued to evolve throughout history, highlighting the area's connection to industrial growth and innovation.
Like much of South Yorkshire, Rother Valley's history was significantly shaped by the Industrial Revolution. The 18th and 19th centuries saw massive developments in mining, particularly coal mining. The Rother Valley was home to one of the country's most extensive open-cast coal mining operations. The Meadowgate site, where Rother Valley Country Park now stands, was an active coal mine from 1976 until its closure in 1982. Over 1.5 million tons of high-quality coal were extracted during this period, drastically altering the landscape.
Heavy industrialisation, particularly coal mining, led to severe pollution in the River Rother. By the 1970s, it had become one of the most polluted in the region, making it unable to support life. The closure of the mines in the early 1980s allowed for the rehabilitation of both the land and the river.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Rother Valley's history is its transformation from a polluted industrial site to the beautiful country park we see today. After the coal mines were closed,
significant efforts were made to reclaim the land, restore wildlife, and create a recreational space for the public.
Rother Valley Country Park officially opened in 1983 to encourage wildlife to return to the area. The artificial lakes that are now a prominent feature of the park were created by filling the former mine pits with water from the Moss Brook in North East Derbyshire. The River Rother, which had suffered from pollution, also began to recover during this period, and by the late 1990s, fish were once again thriving in its waters.
Today, Rother Valley is a flourishing natural park and a hub for outdoor recreation. It has evolved into an essential destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families looking for a place to enjoy various outdoor activities. It is the perfect family day out and offers something for everyone. From action-packed activities such as water skiing, kayaking, and mountain biking to a variety of walks for all abilities and enjoying the vast array of wildlife, flora, and fauna.
Water sports are a particularly popular activity at the park, also home to the members-only Sheffield and District Jet-Ski Club. However, there are plenty of family-oriented boating adventures to be enjoyed, such as rowing boats, pedal crafts, mini-themed boats, and ships. You can even launch your own paddle board on the main lake, which looks great fun!
The main walking routes are fairly easy to follow and take you around the lake, but with extra time, you can explore further by joining one of the many pathways and tracks which lead off from these. Wildlife is abundant wherever you look, and the reserve provides a rich habitat for various species of birds, butterflies, and other insects. If you have a keen eye, you might even spot a kestrel, and during the warmer months, grass snakes appear as they come out of hibernation.
The well-known long-distance multi-user route, the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT), passes through the Country Park. You can join sections of this as you explore the area. The trail is a wonderful way to discover urban paths, rivers, and lakeside tracks, and most paths are flat and accessible.
Stretching southeast from Rother Valley is the Cuckoo Way, a 46-mile route which weaves through the tranquil countryside and villages on its journey towards Retford and beyond. Lace-up those boots or blow up your water wings!
Happy rambling! Sally
Distance: 3.2 miles / 5.1km.
Severity: Easy.
Gradient: Mostly level.
Approx time: 1hr 30mins (allow extra time for exploring)
Stiles/Gates: No.
Maps: OS Explorer 269.
Path: Clearly marked paths and tracks.
Start Point: Small car-park SK 4534 8281 (behind Bedgreave Mill).
Parking: Various locations around the park – charges apply.
Dog friendly: Yes, keep on the lead.
Toilets: Yes, in public service areas.
1. Start at the smaller carpark behind the mill buildings, where the craft shop, dog bakery and coffee shop/ café are located. Facing the lake side take the path to your right, which is directly by the side of the lake.
2. Follow the clearly marked pathway, keeping the lake to your left and woodland to your right, until you reach an intersection of paths. Turn to the right and proceed along the path, still with the lake on your left. You will soon see the full view of the lake and the townscape in the far distance.
3. Continue along until you reach a T-junction in the paths, take the track to the left and follow it along, passing Meadow Gate Lane to your right (there are other routes available to explore from here).
4. Proceed along, following the clear
route around the lake. You will see water sport activities to your left, look out for the sailing club, skiing, kayaking and pleasure boating.
5. The path loops around the bottom of the lake, follow this until you reach a wooden fence and gate across the path. Go through the gate, you will see the water sports centre and bar to your left.
6. Continue straight along until you reach the bicycle hire shop, just past the shop the path forks, cut across to the left and head towards the old mill buildings. Here you will find he dog bakery, café, parking ticket machine and public toilets. I would suggest enjoying the facilities at the mill before purchasing your carpark ticket on exit.
7. The carpark and start are directly beyond the mill complex.
The answer is ‘YES’; however, this would then be a really short editorial! What you really want to know is the “How?” and “Why?” of it. Could it possibly help me? Especially given the fallout from Mr. Trump’s latest interventions in the global money markets! By Chris Collins, Life Coach.
The first thing to say is that the field has evolved greatly beyond just offering traditional support with budgeting, spreadsheets and investment strategies. It’s now pulling from science and psychology to help us change our financial behaviours and achieve long term wellbeing.
Bringing these elements together is not just a ‘trend’, it reflects a deeper understanding of how we make financial decisions and how these decisions are influenced by brain function, emotions and mindset. At the heart of this lies Neuroscience, which reveals how our brains are wired to respond to money.
The brains reward system plays a powerful role in all our spending habits, impulse buying often triggering short term pleasure (dopamine), while delayed gratification - like saving for something bigger – requires the activation of the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for self-control and long-term planning. Financial coaches that use neuroscience can teach us to recognise these neural patterns and help us develop habits that will support us in making more intentional decisions.
We also understand more about the impact of financial stress on our behaviour, and how it causes activation of our brains fear centre (amygdala) which can lead to more reactive decision making and risk aversion, with chronic cases of stress even leading to a shutdown of memory and learning that makes it harder to process financial information or stick to our goals.
An informed financial coach can help us to regulate our stress responses, creating the mental space and clarity required for rational thinking.
Chris Collins - ICF ACC.
For further details call: 07973 179982
Email: chris_collins22@hotmail.com
You can also find booking details through instagram: @chriscollinscoach Chris Collins Life Coach
Adding in some psychology-based knowledge around optimism, cultivating strengths and purpose rather than dwelling solely on problems or deficits, encourages us to explore what’s going well, what we value and how our financial goals align with our life purpose. This shift in perspective boosts motivation and resilience, helping us build a more positive relationship with money.
One key concept is ‘hope theory’ which suggests that we are more likely to achieve our goals if we can visualise our desired future and also believe we have the pathways and resources to get there. Financial coaches can apply this theory to support us in setting meaningful goals, identifying realistic steps to achieve them and maintaining confidence in the face of any setbacks.
The synergy between these three fields – financial coaching, neuroscience and positive psychology – creates a powerful framework for lasting behavioural change. A coach trained in all three disciplines doesn’t just tell you what to do with your money; they help you understand why you behave like you do, reframe your thinking, and design strategies that align with both your brains wiring and your personal values.
Ultimately, financial wellbeing is not just about the numbers, it’s about the mind. As the science behind our money behaviour deepens, coaching that integrates neuroscience and positive psychology will continue to offer more effective, compassionate and empowering support. By bridging these disciplines, financial coaching is becoming a holistic practice, helping people not to just survive, but to thrive.
Life Coaching Updates
For regular updates, prices and information regarding personal and group sessions, sign-up to Chris's mailing list by emailing: chris_collins22@hotmail.com
Order yours today!
Order yours today!
Limited availability of 1st editions
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Gorgeous recipes & beautifully designed. Perfect for the kitchen or the coffee table!
VISIT www.madeinn.co.uk/shop Bring on Spring
Bring on Spring
Gorgeous recipes & beautifully designed. Perfect for the kitchen or the coffee table! Bring on Spring
Citrus inspired recipes. By food demonstrator & home economist, Teresa Bovey.
Lemons are a natural purifier. Start the day with a glass of lemon, grated ginger and hot water to flush out toxins and give you a vitamin C boost. Alternatively try a citrus mocktail as a refreshing citrus drink.
Ingredients
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
1 litre sparkling water
Crushed ice
1 tbsp honey
Method
1. Using a peeler make strips of orange and lemon peel for decoration and reserve.
2. Juice the lemon and orange into a jug.
3. Add the honey, crushed ice and pour in the sparkling water and strips of lemon and orange peel.
4. Pour in whisky sized tumblers and serve.
Serves 3-4
Ingredients
2 red onions, cut into 6 wedges
2 peppers, red or yellow
2 courgettes, thinly sliced lengthways with a Y peeler
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves sliced garlic
1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
Basil leaves
Method
1. Place the onions in a bowl and microwave for 2 minutes. This will speed up the cooking process.
2. Once softened, add the remaining vegetables to the bowl and spoon over 1 tbsp of the oil.
3. Preheat a griddle pan, add the remaining oil, and gently griddle all the vegetables until charred and softened
4. Pour over the lemon juice and balsamic vinegar, and season to taste before serving.
Serves 2-3
Toast is possibly one of the ultimate convenience foods. There are so many different types of bread available these days, from supermarkets and artisan bakeries—sourdough, flatbreads, ciabatta, rye bread, rustic, brown, and white breads— and they can all serve as bases for a multitude of breakfast toppings.
The lemon and sardine recipe is one of my brunch favourites.
Ingredients
I x 95g can sardines, drained
2 tomatoes, deseeded and diced
1 small shallot, finely diced
1 spring onion
2 hard boiled eggs, Zest and juice of a lemon
2 tsp freshly chopped parsley
Black pepper
4 medium slices sour dough bread
Method
1. Place the sardines, diced tomato, shallot and spring onion into a bowl.
2. Finely chop one of the hard boiled eggs and add to the mixture and gently combine.
3. Add the lemon zest and juice, parsley and season with black pepper.
4. Pile onto toasted or griddled sour dough and slice the remaining egg on top.
Serves 2
Ingredients
3 tbsp olive oil
300g frozen uncooked King prawns
3-4 cloves garlic sliced
1 tsp sweet smoked paprika
½-1 red chilli, finely diced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and freshly chopped parsley to garnish
Method
1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok. Add the prawns and garlic and cook for 6-8 minutes until the prawns turn pink. Add the paprika, red chilli and lemon zest and juice and cook for a further 2-3 minutes.
2. Serve immediately sprinkled with salt and a little chopped parsley.
Serves 2
Ingredients
2 oranges, peeled and thinly sliced
2 blood oranges, peeled and thinly sliced
2 satsumas, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tbsp runny honey
Juice from a lemon and 1 orange
3 cardamon pods
Small stick cinnamon
4 tbsp pomegranate
Method
1. Place the honey, lemon and orange juice and spices into a small pan and heat gently for 10 minutes to infuse all the flavours into the juice. Leave to cool.
2. Arrange the fruit slices into a glass sundae dishes or wine glasses.
3. Sprinkle over the pomegranate and spoon over the honey syrup. Makes 4
Cooks Tip - Sprinkle over 100g shelled unsalted pistachios before serving if desired.
Ingredients
1 packet 18 x M&S All Butter Sweet Pastry Tartlets
2 x mini individual tubs Philadelphia cheese
100mls double cream
2 tsp caster sugar
Grated zest and juice of ½ lemon 18 blueberries or other summer fruits
Zest of ½ lime (optional)
Method
1. Whisk together the cheese, cream and sugar until thickened. Add the lemon zest and juice and use to fill the pastry tartlets.
2. Top with a Blueberry and a little lime zest if using. Refrigerate until needed.
Fills 18 mini tartlets.
Find more of Teresa's wonderful recipes in the Spring/Summer cook book available online on www.madeinn.co.uk/shop
www.teresabovey.co.uk
Time to start planning and get ready to entertain because this could be that barbecue summer we’ve waited for! While we enjoy entertaining year-round, we always feel like summer is something special, a time to savour, soaking up the flavours and sometimes even the sun! This summer we have a super guide to some flavoursome and fabulous wines to suit all tastes and budgets.
Let’s begin with fizz
There’s something so nice about starting any occasion with something sparkling because it gets your palate ready for what’s to come and those bubbles add a touch of elegance! This summer our choice is a Crémant from Alsace, France, Bruno Sorg NV, £22.99. A great alternative to Champagne, Alsace Crémant has been produced since as far back as 1900, using identical production methods to Champagne. An elegant blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris, this super Crémant dazzles with its small bubbles, notes of citrus, ripe apple and a crisp finish. Add some canapés alongside this one and you’ve created a perfect match!
Bountiful buffet!
A generous buffet is a treat for the eyes and the tastebuds so it’s a great opportunity to try out some brighter, fresher reds than you might normally go for. Pinot Noir is a fantastic red to serve at a summer gathering because it’s such a versatile wine to pair with cold meats, quiche and seasonal salads and pastries. Light, fruity and a real crowdpleaser is a New Zealand Pinot Noir because it’s a delicate style of wine that works so well with lighter dishes. Sileni Cellar Selection Pinot Noir, £14.99, comes from Hawke’s Bay, on the east of the North Island, an area that’s renowned for the high quality of its wine. With its ripe black cherry notes, a hint of marzipan and silky fine tannins on the finish, this wine gives you a flavourful snapshot into the terroir of New Zealand’s oldest wine region.
Alternatively, if you’re getting ready to barbecue, you’ll need a red with some weight to bring those meaty flavours to life! Malbec is a great option to serve alongside red meats, especially Argentinian Malbec as the wine’s fruit complements the smoky notes of the meat very well. Casarena Single Vineyard Malbec, £29.99, Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina, is made using hand harvested Malbec grapes, aged for 12 months in new and old French oak. Toasty, rich, dark and fruity, steaks at the ready!
For a wonderful summery white, a floral and aromatic wine such as Cantina Castiadas Praidis Vermentino, Sardinia, Italy, £17.99, could do the trick. A fine option alongside summer seafood, pork or chicken, Vermentino is a great wine to go for. Dry and medium bodied with lots of freshness and herbal accents, Vermentino is our recommendation as an alternative to Viognier or Chenin Blanc. A match made in heaven would be a picnic of buttery baked potatoes, grilled asparagus, some soft cheeses and a glass of Vermentino!
Ready with the Rosé Vital to any summer gathering is a beautiful Rosé and it’s Provence that holds our hearts! We’re pleased to say that Rosé is no longer just for summer, we are asked frequently for Provence Rosé year-round so it’s great that it’s getting the recognition that it deserves! Lafran Veyrolles Organic Bandol Rosé, Provence, France, £20.99, is a lemony, herbal treat that comes to life with so many dishes but it’s also a winner on its own. Let summer begin!
Classic tailoring meets confident colour. Discover how to wear vibrant blazers with elegance, ease, and timeless appeal.
Bentley's range of Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible and Flying Spur models has now doubled with the addition of a second V8 plug-in hybrid option, the High Performance Hybrid with an output of 680 PS. This engine is offered across all bodystyles in a choice of new core or new Azure variants, the latter prioritising wellness and comfort. Joining the 782PS Ultra Performance Hybrid unit introduced in 2024 as a Speed or Mulliner, Bentley's two-door and four-door sedan models are now exclusively powered by electrified V8 engines.
The new Continental GT and Azure models mark the arrival of Bentley’s new High Performance Hybrid powertrain, which unites an advanced 4.0-litre V8 engine and powerful electric motor to develop a maximum power output of 680 PS and a maximum torque output of 930 Nm. Though the Ultra Performance Hybrid of the Speed remains the most extreme powertrain in Bentley’s range, it is significant that the new High Performance Hybrid outperforms the previous generation’s W12 Speed powertrain on all power, torque and performance parameters – whilst also being capable of up to 50 miles / 80 km in pure electric mode.
These nine cars together define Bentley’s family of performancefocused daily supercars, each bringing unique combinations of potent power, dynamic handling, exquisite design and true handcraftsmanship.
The new fourth generation Continental GT and GT Convertible core models showcase classic design cues that have been a feature of the model since the first generation was introduced in 2003. These include Bentley’s signature matrix grille, now finished
in gloss black with a chrome surround and centre bar. The lower bumper grilles are finished in matt black, while the splitter is gloss black. The design of the striking ‘Harmony’ headlamps – with distinct differences from those of the GT Speed - is inspired by cut crystal and features a bespoke welcome animation. Exterior brightware is chrome, while at the rear two bright chrome tailpipe finishers stand out from the gloss black diffuser. Red lens taillights also feature the Harmony animation.
Seats for the new Continental GT and GT Convertible are handcrafted in Crewe to a straight fluted design, while customers will have the choice of bright chrome or the optional dark chrome interior specification for switchgear, air vents, organ stops and door handles. Treadplates feature the inscription ‘Handcrafted in Crewe, England’.
The V8 High Performance Hybrid powertrain develops a combined power output of 680 PS and a combined torque output of 930 Nm, endowing the new models with exceptional performance. The 0-60 mph sprint takes a mere 3.5 seconds for the new Continental GT (0-100 km/h in 3.7 secs), while the figure for the Continental GT Convertible is scarcely less impressive at 3.8 secs (0-100 km/h in 3.9 secs). Electric-only range is 53 miles / 85 km for the GT and 51 miles / 82 km for the GTC, with overall CO2 figures in hybrid mode as low as 29 g/km and 31 g/km respectively.
The Bentley Active Chassis technology includes Dynamic Ride, Rear Wheel Steering and eLSD with a choice of Comfort, Bentley and Sport modes. Together, the powertrain and chassis deliver refined, surefooted, progressive and accessible performance in a wide variety of road conditions.
New Continental GT Azure and GT Convertible Azure
Elegant design, a lavish specification and a strong focus on wellbeing are the distinguishing features of the new Azure models. This is apparent from the very first impression of the exterior’s new gloss black matrix grille with its bright chrome surround and vertical vanes. Beneath this, a gloss black front splitter provides a contrast to bright grilles on the front bumper and lower intakes. A new silver and bright machined 22” Azure wheel design, and Azure badging on the front fender, complete the exterior package. Inside, the seats and door inners feature new 3D Harmony diamond quilting with the Azure embroidered on the seat headrests.
An extensive specification includes Wellness seating, open pore crown cut walnut veneer trim, Azure interior treadplates with illumination and contrast stitching on the leather upholstery. The Touring, Comfort and Lighting Specification packages are also standard. The Continental GT Azure includes a panoramic sunroof, while the Continental GT Convertible Azure is equipped with the neck warmer for comfortable roof-down motoring in cooler weather.
The new Flying Spur’s High Performance Hybrid powertrain and Bentley Active Chassis put it second only to the Flying Spur Speed as a way of covering distance swiftly, safely and comfortably for up to five occupants. The benchmark 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 secs) attests to exhilarating performance, yet its supple ride, interior space and refinement make long journeys feel effortless.
Visually, the new Flying Spur is distinguished by its gloss black matrix grille, matt black lower bumper grilles, chrome brightware and oval bright chrome tailpipe finishers. The interior includes straight fluted seats with Bentley embroidered emblems on the headrests, and bright chrome for switchgear, bezels, air vents and door handles. An alternative dark chrome interior specification is optionally available.
As with the Continental GT Azure, the new Flying Spur Azure features a new black gloss matrix grille with chrome surround and 11 vertical vanes. Other distinguishing features include Azure fender badging, bright chrome lower grilles, chrome brightware and the new 22” Azure wheel, which is finished in a combination of silver and bright machined metal. The Azure elements are available both in chrome finish and in dark gloss Blackline Specification.
All Azure models focus on reducing stress and promoting wellbeing, complemented by driver assistance technologies for smoother, safer journeys. Accordingly, both the two front seats and the two outer rear seats of the Flying Spur Azure feature Bentley’s Wellness seating, with heating and ventilation to maintain the occupant’s optimum temperature for comfort and alertness. A massage function with six programmable settings promotes the constant micro-adjustments in muscle and posture that are essential in preventing fatigue.
Other tactile and visual delights include mood lighting, Harmony quilting to the door inners and seats, Azure embroidered headrests, open pore crown cut walnut trim and the Touring, Comfort and Mood Lighting specification packages. As a finishing touch, illuminated Bentley treadplates feature the Azure name.
With the arrival of the new models alongside the acclaimed Speed variants, Bentley customers can now choose the Continental GT, GT Convertible or Flying Spur that most closely reflects their aesthetic values and driving priorities. But this is just the start of the journey; the near-infinite choice of paint finishes, veneers, trim, interior upholstery and Mulliner options enables each customer to create a Bentley that is truly individual.
For more information and the full details of features available visit: www.bentleymotors.com
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