Things to Do in January

Here are some things happening in January in the local area. If you would like to let us know about any future event or activity please email meldrethmatters@hotmail.com.

Saturdays until 28th January, normal cathedral opening hours Ely Cathedral West Tower Tours The Chapter House, The College, Ely , Cambridgeshire CB7 4DL

Climb 288 steps to the top of the West Tower for stunning views over the city and surrounding fens. Tour takes 1 hour and requires a certain level of fitness and mobility. Tickets £10 for adults (no children under 10) in addition to normal cathedral entrance. Maximum of 10 places per tour. Advance booking essential from www.elycathedral.org or call (01353) 667735.

Until Friday 31st March 2023, 10.00am to 4.00pm Visit the Winter Garden Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE

The Winter Garden is ablaze with colour throughout January and the winter months - ornamental trees, striking coloured stems, fragrant shrubs and early bulbs. A winter wonderland to brighten even the dullest of days. Free admission but normal Botanic Garden admission applies. Visit www.botanic.cam.ac.uk.

Saturday 7th January, 10.00am to 1.00pm Cars and Coffee Grange Farm, Horningsea, Cambridge CB25 9JD

View a wide range of supercars, classics and highly modified cars in an indoor display area. Tea, coffee and nibbles provided. £5 entry per car - cash on the day or tickets in advance from www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Wednesday 11th January, 7.00pm to 9.00pm Online Introduction to Raptor Identification

In this online event Henry Stanier will help you learn how to identify birds of prey - and when and where to see them. Followed by an optional field trip to the Great Fen with 1:1 guidance on Saturday 14th January, 1.30pm to 4.30pm. See: www.bcn.org/events/2023. For event admission price and to book call 07793 606026 or email trainingworkshops@wildlifebcn.org.

Friday 13th January, 3.00pm to 4.00pm Guided Tour, University Museum of Zoology Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EJ

Uncover the fascinating stories behind the museum’s collections, from the beetles of Charles Darwin to its dodo skeleton and amazing fin whale. Suitable for ages 12 and over. Suggested donation £5 per person. See www.museums.ac.uk/events/guided-tour. 30

Friday 13th January, 8.00pm to 10.00pm Royston Arts Society Art Demo Market Hill Rooms, Fish Hill, Royston SGW 9DW

Hashim Akib will demonstrate how to paint seascapes in Acrylics. Entry £3, members free. NB These events take place monthly throughout the year, featuring different artists and subjects. For further details visit www.roystonarts.org.uk.

Saturday 14th January, 3.00pm to 5.00pm Board Games Social Central Library, 7 Lion Yard, Cambridge CB2 3QD

Meet on the third floor of the library for some relaxed and friendly board games fun. The library has a great range of games to choose from or you can bring your own from home, plus any drinks and snacks you would like. For ages 18 plus. No need to book, just turn up.

Thursday 19th January, 11.00am to 12.30pm Aroma Experience Wellness Walks Fen Drayton RSPB Nature Reserve Off Fen Drayton Road Busway NCN52, Fen Drayton CB24 4RB

Try a different experience to greet the new year: take in some nature, get your steps in for the day while experiencing the benefits of essential oils. Enjoy this mindfulness walk with friends and make some new ones. Tickets £7 from www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Sunday 22nd January, 12noon to 1.00pm Ant Law and Alex Hitchcock Quartet Stapleford Granary, Bury Road, Stapleford, Cambridge CB22 5BP

Innovative guitarist Ant Law and renowned tenor saxophonist Alex Hitchcock teamed up to produce their first album, written during the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 and linking musicians across several continents. This concert features music from that album plus some new material. Tickets £18 (£9 under 25). Book at www.staplefordgranary.org.uk. NB Book early to be sure of a ticket.

Saturday 28th January, 10am to 4.00pm Volunteer Recruitment Days Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW

Ever thought about becoming part of the Wimpole story and joining their team as a volunteer? Opportunities to help out in the farm, gardens, parkland, house, shops and catering areas. Drop in, chat to the team and find out more. Free event. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cambridgeshire. Compiled by John Crawforth