Things to Do in October

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

Saturday 1st October, 12noon to 11.30pm (begins Friday 30th September, 5.00pm) Royston Heath Beer Festival Therfield Heath Cafe, Baldock Road, Royston SG8 5BG

A weekend full of live music, local brewers, food stands and children’s activities. For more information visit the Royston Heath Beer Festivals Facebook page.

Friday 7th to Sunday 9th October, at varying times Ely Cathedral Harvest Weekend Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, The College, Ely CB7 4DL

A seasonal celebration with Harvest Supper, Tower and Octagon tours, spectacular floral displays, harvest produce sale, food fair, Harvest Ceilidh and other events. For timings, admission prices and to book tickets visit www.elycathedral.org.

Wednesday 12th, 19th and 26th October, 7.00pm to 9.00pm Public Open Evenings Cambridge Institute of Astronomy Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0HA

The Astronomy Institute will be open every Wednesday evening from 12th October through to March 2023. Doors open at 6.30pm and a half hour talk by an astronomer starts at 7.15pm, followed by stargazing (weather permitting) through the historic Northumberland and Thorrowgood telescopes. Watching the stars can be cold so wrap up warmly! For detailed programme of talks visit www.public.ast.cam.ac.uk.

Friday 14th October, 8.00pm to 10.00pm Foyer Jazz: Django’s Tiger Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH

Round off your week with a relaxed evening in the Saffron Hall Foyer. Django’s Tiger play ‘gypsy swing’ in the tradition of Django Reinhardt and Stefan Grapelli. A sound which grew out of American swing jazz of the 1920s to 1940s - melodic and with an infectious sense of fun. Tickets from £13.50. Book at www.saffronhall.com.

Sunday 16th October, 10.00am to 4.00pm (last entry 3.00pm) Chippenham Park Open Garden Chippenham Park, Newmarket, Cambridgeshire CB7 5PT

Beautiful 300 year old gardens set amongst lakes, canals and woodlands. Last opportunity in 2022 to visit for late flowering plants and early autumn colours. Fully licensed Potting Shed tearooms serving excellent refreshments. Garden entry £7 adults, £3 children 5-16 years Cash only. Dogs on leads welcome. www.chippenhamparkgardens.info.

Sunday 16th October, 11.00am to 4.00pm Saffron Day, Market Place, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1HR

A celebration of all things saffron with cooking and dyeing demonstrations, saffron-related stalls, food, music, Morris dancing, living history performers and lots more. For further details and a programme: www.visitsaffronwalden.go.uk.

Tuesday 18th October, 10.00am to 1.00pm Creative Garden Writing Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside CB2 1JE

If you’ve ever felt inspired to write by a garden or favourite landscape this workshop will help you get started. Expert advice, guided exercises and a chance to produce your very own piece of prose or poetry. Free admission. More details at www.museums.cam.ac.uk.

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd October 9.00am to 5.00pm Big Tree Climbing Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston, SG8 0BW

Join the Big Tree Climbing Company and explore Wimpole Estate from the tree tops! Using ropes and harnesses you’ll ascend into the canopy of a tree - an exhilarating adventure at new heights. With two skilled and friendly instructors, you’ll be securely attached at all times. Hourly climbing sessions throughout the day, each run for 8 people. Suitable for all ages from 6 upwards. Tickets £25 and pre-booking essential.

Thursday 27th October, doors open 7.00pm, film starts 7.30pm ‘Death on the Nile’ - Orwell Film Club Orwell Village Hall, 32-66 High Street, Orwell SG8 5QN

Orwell Film Club meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, except August and December. Showing a wide range of recent and classic films. Free teas and coffees on arrival with membership available at the door, £6 per year. Guests also welcome, £3 per visit. Compiled by John Crawforth 29