Things to Do in July

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

Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd July, at varying times The Big Weekend and Mela Parker’s Piece, Cambridge, CB1 1NA

This lively annual event takes place every summer on Parker’s Piece, featuring big-named performers plus local musicians, French market, games, educational activities, fireworks and lots of family-friendly entertainment. Free entry. See www.cambridgelive.org.uk for full programme and timings.

Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd July, 10.00am to 5.00pm and every weekend day until Sunday July 24th (inclusive) Cambridge Open Studios Various locations in and around Cambridge

For four weekends in July painters, jewellers, woodworkers, sculptors, photographers and many more open their working studios and give you chance to browse and buy directly from the artists. Free admission. For details of which studios are open please see www.visit.cambridge.org.

Sunday 3rd July and Sunday 17th July, 10.00am to 4.00pm Great Chishill Windmill Open Days 57-67 Barley Road, Great Chishill, Royston SG8 8SD

One of only seven open trestle post mills in the UK. Found to be in urgent need of restoration in 2011, work is now underway to preserve this historic mill for future generations. No need to book, just turn up. Donations welcome towards the cost of the restoration. See www.greatchishillwindmill.com for further information.

Sunday 3rd July, 2.00pm to 5.00pm Fellows’ and Provost’s Open Garden King’s College, Cambridge CB2 1ST

Fine example of a Victorian garden with rare specimen trees, herbaceous and sub-tropical borders, rose pergola and short woodland walk. Plus fantastic views across the river and chance to view the new wildflower meadow created on the former Great Lawn. Admission £6, children free. Home-made teas. See www.wherecanwego.com.

Saturday 16th July, 2.00pm to 9.00pm Shuttleworth Evening Drive-in Air Show Old Warden Aerodrome, Alder Drive, Biggleswade SG18 9DT

Enjoy a spectacular flying display featuring many vintage aircraft and help celebrate the 90th birthday of this famous old aerodrome. For further details and ticket pricing please visit www.shuttleworth.org.

Saturday 16th July, 8.00pm In situ - Hamlet at the Leper Chapel Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8JJ

Directed by Richard Spaul, the classic Shakespearean tragedy becomes a one-man performance to make this a Hamlet unlike any other. The medieval chapel provides a wonderful atmospheric setting. Tickets £15 from www.insitutheatre.co.uk or at the venue on the night from 7.30pm.

Sunday 31st July, 11.00am to 2.00pm Constable Revealed at Anglesey Abbey Quy Road, Lode, Cambridgeshire CB25 9EJ

Discover the small but fascinating collection of paintings by John Constable at Anglesey Abbey as part of your tour of the house. Included in your entry to the estate and no need to pre-book. Normal National Trust admission applies. Also accessible online for those with limited mobility. See www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events.

Tuesday 26th July, 7.00pm to 9.00pm (ish) Summer Wildlife Stroll, Waresley and Gransden Woods Waresley, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 3DA

Join Communities and Wildlife Officer, Rebecca Neal for a sociable gentle evening stroll (around 3 miles) looking for common wildlife. Aimed at adults but interested older teenagers welcome. Tickets £6 (£4 for members of the Wildlife Trust). Book on 07894 599020 or by email: rebecca.neal@wildlife.bcn.org.

Thursday 28th July to Sunday 31st July, at various times The Cambridge Folk Festival Cherry Hinton Hall, Cherry Hinton Rd, Cambridge CB22 3FB

2022 sees the return after two years of one of the longest running and most famous folk festivals in the world. With top-rated performers and a host of new talent, tickets are available for the full festival or on a day basis. For programme and to book visit www.cambridgelive.org.uk. Compiled by John Crawforth 39