ABC’S MARTIN FRY: IT’S BEEN A WILD RIDE!
ABC WERE THE BAND THAT REDEFINED GLAMOUR AND COOL. LED BY THE CHARISMATIC MARTIN FRY , THEY SCALED THE HEIGHTS OF POP STARDOM WITH HITS SUCH AS ‘POISON ARROW’, ‘ALL OF MY HEART’, ‘THE LOOK OF LOVE’ AND’ WHEN SMOKEY SINGS’.
AT THE FOREFRONT of the early 1980s New Romantic scene, Martin Fry, with his gold lamé suit, harked back to a flamboyant era. And now, with the publication of his autobiography ‘A Lexicon of Life’, he’s hitting the road to share his stories and sing acoustic versions of his greatest hits.
Martin grew up in the north of England, being inspired by David Bowie and The Sex Pistols, before starting a fanzine, then getting into bands. The gig that changed his life was The Sex Pistols at the Lesser Free Trade, in Manchester.
“John Lydon just crouched and clutched his can of lager. He was very vulnerable, but he had complete and utter disdain for the audience. He wasn’t going to fight them; he was just beyond that. There was just something brilliant about them, artistically. It wasn’t the safety pins and Kings Road fashion that attracted me to Punk, I felt that was a bit of a Fleet Street invention really. It was something much deeper. They were great.”
Band mates came and went as ABC became a fixture of the charts, hitting the number one spot and earning a platinum disc for their debut album ‘Lexicon of Love’, and enjoying gold discs for ‘Beauty Stab’ and ‘Alphabet City’.
The band hit the road, playing to audiences around the world and hanging out with famous people. “After we played New York, we got this call to the hotel, asking if we’d like to go and meet Andy Warhol at the Factory! He was the most down-to-earth guy you could meet. He was talking to me about acne products because his skin wasn’t great, and neither was mine. He was drinking a cup of coffee and people would constantly come in and ask him to sign paintings and prints.”
“I remember later in Tokyo, the four of us were sitting eating in a restaurant, and a crowd gathered outside. People were literally trying to smash the window to get in. We had to go out the back door as the front window splintered and we were ushered into a speeding car. That kind of fame and recognition I can live without.”
He joined Robbie Williams for a tour; “Playing to something approaching 200,000 people at Milton Keynes Bowl for three nights was something I never thought would happen. But it did.
Robbie’s tour felt like being part of a Medieval Kingdom. It must have been like that when they took Henry VIII to Agincourt.”
PLAYING TO SOMETHING APPROACHING
200,000
PEOPLE AT MILTON KEYNES BOWL
FOR THREE NIGHTS WAS SOMETHING I NEVER THOUGHT WOULD HAPPEN.
On tour with Meatloaf, “About midway through the tour, I could hear Meatloaf smashing up his dressing room, and for a while, and I was the only other artist who dared go in there. I didn’t try to restrain him - he was too big to restrain. But I did tell him to calm down and I warned him that if he carried on smashing up his room, he’d end up having a heart attack!”
And now Martin is sharing his stories, playing acoustic versions of songs with two trusted bandmates, while remembering the remarkable journey he’s been on.
“It’s been a wild ride,” he says. “And the incredible thing is, that as I hit the road with The Lexicon of Life, I feel as though I’m just getting started.”
Martin Fry will be at The Apex on Saturday 14 June at 7.30pm. Go to The Apex website or ring 01284 758000 for more information, or to book tickets.
IT'S EXHIBITION TIME!
SUPERSTITION TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT
From Saturday 15 February – Sunday 6 April
This spring, Moyse's Hall Museum invites visitors to journey into the mysterious and mystical with SUPERSTITION: STRANGE WONDERS AND CURIOSITIES, a captivating display delving into folklore, witchcraft, and age-old beliefs.
Highlights will include the ghostly Black Shuck of East Anglia, 17th Century ritualistic artefacts, new ‘witchcraft’ acquisitions and donations, 19th Century oddities, ancient relics, and much more telling the story of superstition throughout the ages.
The museum is also hosting an engaging series of talks that promise to bring these subjects to life coinciding
GET READY FOR AN EXCITING NEW EXHIBITION THIS MAY!
PREHISTORIC BEASTS: LAND, SEA, SKY
Opens on Saturday 3 May and runs until Sunday 5 October
A must-see event for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages!
Step back in time with an incredible exhibition showcasing real and cast dinosaur bones and skeletons, brought to life in collaboration with the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences at Cambridge and renowned paleoartist Alex Pritchard.
Many fan-favourites will be represented including Triceratops, Parasaurolophus, Iguanodon, Velociraptor, and the mighty T-Rex!
Plus, a special treat for fans of Walking with Dinosaurs—an original prop head from the groundbreaking TV series.
During the school holidays, families can enjoy free craft workshops included with admission, while evening academic lectures will offer deeper insights into the prehistoric world.
Keep an eye on our website for further updates or sign up to our mailing list and be the first to know about future events!
A NEW SEASON IS HERE
THIS SPRING , WE’RE BURSTING INTO ACTION WITH A LINEUP OF SHOWS DESIGNED TO OFFER SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.
THE ULTIMATE 80'S EXPERIENCE
Saturday 1 March – 7:30pm
All your 80s mixtape favourites in one show, featuring Duran Duran, Pointer Sisters, Toto, Wham, Pet Shop Boys, Madonna, Whitney Houston and many more iconic artists from the decade.
£20.00
THE FROG AND THE PRINCESS
Saturday 8 March – 11:30am
Step into a magical world with Hansel and Gretel, help little elves make beautiful shoes, meet a princess who’s the best at hide-and-seek and see if a little frog gets his wish. Stunning adaptations of some of the most magical tales, featuring wonderful puppets and spellbinding original music.
£10.00 / £9.00 / Family: £34.00
BIG DEAL COMEDY WITH SEANN WALSH
Saturday 8 March – 8:00pm SOLD OUT
MISS DISCO
Saturday 5 April – 7:30pm
Renowned for their stunning vocals, impeccable musicianship and dazzling costumes, get ready for a non-stop whirlwind of dancefloor anthems by disco’s biggest icons, Chic, Sister Sledge, Earth Wind & Fire, Bee Gees and Gloria Gaynor, and more.
£20.00
PARTY NIGHT
© MARTIN PORTER
JURASSICA SPECTACULAR
Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 April –11:30am & 2:30pm
Come on a fun, feel-good musical adventure – to the prehistoric land of Jurassica – where dinosaurs dance, sing and even talk! What happens when shy little Smasher, the clumsiest baby dinosaur in the kingdom, loses the King’s crown on the day of the coronation? Will Smasher find the crown in time for the big scary T.Rex to be crowned king?
£16.00 / £14.00 / Family: £56.00
JACK AND FRIENDS
Tuesday 15 April – 2:00pm
This uplifting and joyous celebration ponders friendship and belonging, acceptance and independence. There will be plenty of opportunities to join in or watch and take in the magic. This is a relaxed performance in an informal environment. This may be suitable for children, young people and adults with neurodivergence such as autism, learning difficulties and other sensory or communication needs.
£11.00 / £7.00
PUPPET SPECTACULAR GLOW SHOW
Friday 30 May – 2:00pm
An enchanting one-hour UV puppet show featuring a cast of colourful characters that will delight audiences of all ages. This hilarious performance combines humour, music and mesmerising glow-in-the-dark visuals. Don’t miss this unique family show!
£14.50 / £12.50
For more information or to book tickets: haverhillartscentre.co.uk/whats-on/ BOX OFFICE: 01440 714140 DON'T MISS
5, 6, 7, 8 THE STEPS EXPERIENCE
Friday 6 June – 7:30pm
The fastest-growing Steps tribute show in the UK! Faithfully recreating the flawless vocals and slick choreography of the ’90s & ’00s party favourites in a ‘steptacular’ show.
£28.00
BROADWAY AND BEYOND Friday 27 June – 7:30pm
Prepare to be captivated and taken away on a journey filled with Broadway classics from productions such as Oklahoma!, Kiss Me Kate and The Music Man through to more modern musicals like Miss Saigon, The Producers and Spamalot.
£20.00
PARKS PLAY SUCH AN ESSENTIAL ROLE IN CREATING VIBRANT AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES AND WE’RE PROUD OF OUR BEAUTIFUL WEST SUFFOLK PARKS WHICH ARE ENJOYED BY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND VISITING TOURISTS ALIKE.
THEY NOT ONLY provide spaces for relaxation and recreation but also improve mental and physical wellbeing and additionally support local biodiversity and improve air quality.
Particularly beautiful in Spring, Nowton Park is well worth a visit with its avenue of daffodils and the awardwinning Abbey Gardens is beautiful at any time of the year.
Brandon Country Park is well-known for its family-friendly Prize Trails which take place throughout the park during school holidays and East Town Park has
www.whatsonwestsuffolk.co.uk
RHYTHMS IN COLOUR
its much-anticipated Easter Egg Hunt planned for 2025.
Did you know that 2024 saw the launch of the new Wes Hal Mindfulness Trail at West Stow Country Park?
Using sight, sound, touch, smell and imagination, this trail encourages visitors to engage with the natural world without the distractions of modern life and is a perfect activity for all the family.
A number of events will be taking place across our West Suffolk Parks during these coming months including a willow obelisk making workshop, den building and easter egg hunts.
BRANDON COUNTRY PARK’S EASTER ACTIVITIES & TEDDY BEAR PICNIC
Friday 11 April (£10 per child including picnic lunch)
EAST TOWN PARK’S EASTER EGG HUNT
Saturday 19 April (just £2 per child, no need to book)
Keep an eye on the What’s On West Suffolk website for more or sign up to our WOWS mailing list and be amongst the first to know!
RHYTHMS IN COLOUR - A SEASONAL STROLL THROUGH WEST SUFFOLK PARKS
Wednesday 21 MaySunday 15 Jun, The Apex
A photographic exhibition by Geoff Price inviting you to sample the charms of the green spaces we find right on our doorstep; our very own public parks.
NOWTON PARK IS WELL WORTH A VISIT WITH ITS AVENUE OF DAFFODILS
WEST STOW annual events programme is packed with a diverse range of experiences including family-friendly activities, immersive reenactments, fascinating historical talks, nature explorations, wellbeing workshops, and much more.
Highlights for your diary include…
HEROES ASSEMBLE!
A L.A.R.P ADVENTURE
Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 April
Help save West Stow…The Ulfhednar’s have returned…
Embark on a L.A.R.P Adventure (Live Action Role Play) with Rattlebox Theatre as you are guided through the AngloSaxon Village at West Stow with a series of challenges.
Be trained up as warriors and hunters, learning how to search and find key components to craft tools and equipment to help on your journey. Once in the village solve riddles and tasks to deepen your skills and knowledge, ready for a final challenge with the Troll Brothers.
Suitable for 8-12yrs.
WHAT'S ON AT WEST STOW
HEROES ASSEMBLE!
WEST STOW IS A UNIQUE PLACE – ITS COUNTRY PARK COMPRISES OF 125 ACRES OF UNSPOILT COUNTRYSIDE TO EXPLORE AND THE ANGLOSAXON VILLAGE SITE, WITH ITS RECONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS AND MUSEUM SITS IN THE HEART OF THE SURROUNDING BRECKLAND LANDSCAPE.
For more, go to www.weststow.org/whats-on/
95TH RIFLES
Sunday 25 & Monday 26 May
First into battle and last out, the 95th, heroes of the Peninsular War…
Meet the 95th Rifles when they are camped at West Stow and find out how our Baker rifles beat Napoleon. This is the most famous of all Wellington’s regiments from the Peninsular War and Waterloo (18031815). They have found a special place in the history of our military.
The 95th Rifles re-create the everyday lives of soldiers and camp followers during the Napoleonic wars. Sometimes fighting dramatic battles and skirmishes, sometimes training to fire our flintlock rifles, with local Brandon flints. Everything is done to historical accuracy, including general life around the period encampments.
STRONGHOLD REENACTMENT GROUP
Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June
Come and meet Stronghold
Reenactment Group at West Stow and find out more about Medieval life! No need to book
COSTUMERS OF COLOR
Saturday 7 June
See dress and crafts from a variety of historical periods up to the 8th century!
Costumers of Color is a non-profit group based in the United States whose vision is for welcoming and safe multicultural spaces in historical costuming and public history… come and meet them at West Stow this summer.
DON'T MISS
DRAGON FEST SOARS INTO ITS SPECTACULAR 10TH ANNIVERSARY!
Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 June
The beloved and much-anticipated Dragon Fest returns to West Stow for its 10th year celebrating all things dragon…
• Meet our resident dragons, Brym & Snarl Junior, while enjoying the hilarious antics of Bring Out Your Dead Productions
• Immerse yourself in the legendary tale of Beowulf, brought to life by Quill & Inkling
• Get up close with prehistoric giants from Rent a Dinosaur
• Try your hand at Circus Skills, Archery, and Axe Throwing
• Indulge in delicious food and drink from a variety of stalls
• Relax and recharge with wellbeing sessions and practitioners—plus so much more still to come!
• And NEW for 2025! Witness the awakening of a brand-new, awe-inspiring 4m-long dragon by the Anglo-Saxon villagers
Don’t miss out on this family-friendly magical celebration of dragons, history, and adventure!
MINISTRY OF SCIENCE
SUN 9 MAR, 1.30pm
Dive into the world of science - with a few loud bangs along the way!
PAM AYRES
MON 10 MAR, 3pm
DR JOHN COOPER CLARKE
THU 13 MAR, 8pm
Biting, satirical and very funny verse, delivered in a unique rapid-fire style.
JOHN POWER
THU 20 MAR, 7.30pm
Cast, The La’s, And Me: acoustic show with music and tales of the bands’ Britpop years.
SUFFOLK SINFONIA SPRING CONCERT
SAT 22 MARCH, 7.30pm Wagner, Borodin, Dvorak
SUFFOLK YOUTH ORCHESTRA
SUN 23 MARCH, 3pm
West Suffolk Council Chair’s fundraising concert.
ALBERT LEE
THU 27 MAR, 7.30pm
One of the world’s finest guitarists, known for his hybrid picking technique.
CARA DILLON
FRI 28 MAR, 7.30pm “Quite possibly the world’s most beautiful female voice.” Mojo magazine.
BURY BACH CHOIR: BACH’S ST MARK PASSION
SAT 29 MARCH, 7.30pm
KATE MOSSE
SUN 30 MAR, 7.30pm
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of her global bestseller, Labyrinth.
GRIMETHORPE COLLIERY BAND
SAT 5 APR, 7.30pm
Music from the film ‘Brassed Off’ and classic brass band repertoire.
ELLES BAILEY
SUN 6 APR, 7.30pm
UK Americana Awards’ Live Act of the Year and UK Blues Awards’ Vocalist of the Year.
HIGHLIGHTS MARCH 25 –JUNE
25
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THE APEX, 1 CHARTER SQUARE,
SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA
WED 9 APR, 7.30pm
Big Band classics and swinging jazz.
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED
THU 10 APR, 12.30pm
Adapted from the best-selling books by McFly’s Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter.
SHOWADDYWADDY
FRI 11 APR, 7.30pm
‘Under The Moon of Love’, ‘Three Steps to Heaven’ and many more.
BURYSOUND GRAND FINAL
SAT 12 APR, 6pm
Headlined by last year’s winners, Jaded Teeth.
NICK COPE
SUN 13 APR, 2pm
Songs for children and their families “.. the Ray Davies for the pre-teen generation…” Steve Lamacq, 6 Music.
NATURAL HISTORY
MUSEUM: DINOSAURS LIVE
MON 14 APR, 12.30pm
GIGSPANNER BIG BAND
TUE 15 APR, 7.30pm
Some of the biggest names on the folk-roots scene.
PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA
WED 16 APR, 7.30pm
Lovingly recreated songs from the likes of Irving Berlin, George Gershwin and Duke Ellington.
FEAST OF FIDDLES
THU 17 APR, 7.30pm Folk’s finest fiddlers.
LUCY SPRAGGAN
FRI 18 APR, 7.30pm
An exceptional singer and emotive wordsmith.
THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN
SAT 19 APR, 2pm
Louis Pearl’s spellbinding bubble tricks.
EMMA KENNYKILLER CULTS
SAT 19 APR, 7.30pm
The psychology expert examines the mysterious world of cults.
BOOK TICKETS AT WWW.THEAPEX.CO.UK • 01284 758000
BURY ST EDMUNDS IP33 3FD
MARY COUGHLAN
MON 21 APR, 7.30pm
Whisky-blurred, smoke-seared, deep, down and dirty blues.
RICHARD THOMPSON
TUE 22 APR, 7.30pm LAST FEW TICKETS!
JOANNE MCNALLY
WED 23 APR, 8pm Irish comedian.
LONDON BALLET COMPANY
THU 24 APR, 7.30pm
Captivating ballet adaptation of The Sound of Music.
MIKE PETERS
FRI 25 APR, 7.30pm
Acoustic hits and remarkable stories from The Alarm frontman
EDDI READER
SUN 27 APR, 7.30pm
“Just perfect – Eddi Reader gets every song just right” The Sunday Times
LADYBOYS OF BANGKOK
TUE 29 APR, 7.30pm
Diamante-dripping divas, comedy and outrageous cheekiness.
CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD
THU 1 MAY, 7.30pm
Strictly star brings big songs, tall tales and glamour.
CHINA CRISIS
SAT 3 MAY, 7.30pm
Celebrating 40 years of ‘Flaunt the Imperfection’.
CURTIS STIGERS
MON 5 MAY, 7.30pm
Jazz and soul. “An artist of genuine class and laconic charm.” The Guardian
NEWTON FAULKNER
TUE 6 MAY, 8pm
Soulful songs with percussive acoustic guitar.
GRACE PETRIE
WED 7 MAY, 7.30pm
Protest folk singer-songwriter.
KROKE
FRI 9 MAY, 7.30pm
Polish music, klezmer, jazz and classical.
ATTENTION ALL SHIPPING
TUE 13 MAY, 7.30pm
Charlie Connelly’s hilarious and informative show brings the Shipping Forecast to life.
LOU SANDERS
THU 15 MAY, 8pm
Champion of ‘Taskmaster’ and co-host of Mel Giedroyc’s ‘Unforgivable’.
TOM BALL
SUN 18 MAY, 7.30pm
Likened to Michael Ball and Michael Buble.
PETER & ANTHONY DONEGAN
MON 19 MAY, 7.30pm
The King of Skiffle: An evening of Lonnie Donegan songs and stories.
ELIO PACE
WED 21 MAY, 7.30pm
Back with his own eclectic songs and favourite covers.
AURORA ORCHESTRA: CARNIVAL
FRI 23 MAY, 7.45pm
Saint-Saëns’ vibrant ‘Carnival of the Animals’ is performed from memory
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LEE MEAD
SAT 24 MAY, 7.30pm West End star.
DANNY BAKER
SUN 25 MAY, 7.30pm “A raft of cracking anecdotes” - Mail on Sunday.
LEVISON WOOD
MON 26 MAY, 7.30pm
Walking the World: A Life of Exploration and Adventure.
MARTHA WAINWRIGHT
TUE 27 MAY, 7.30pm
Playing her debut album and new material.
CHANTEL MCGREGOR
TUE 10 JUN, 7.45pm
Guitar virtuoso with an innovative approach to progressive-blues-rock.
RORY BREMNER
WED 11 JUN, 7.30pm
ABC – AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH MARTIN FRY SAT 14 JUN, 7.30pm Stripped-back music and conversation.
A SEASONAL STROLL THROUGH WEST SUFFOLK PARKS
DURING 2022 AND 2023, photographer Geoff Price was commissioned by West Suffolk Council to take his camera to sample the charms of the green spaces on our doorstep; our public parks. When our lives were suddenly and forcibly shut down during 2020, these local, expansive vistas provided a lifeline and we discovered the delights of once again breathing fresh air; of embracing openness; of sensing freedom from the suffocating confinement.
These photographs - drawings with light - provide a unique perspective on our precious, natural areas as the seasons pulse through them with a comforting regularity.
A PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION BY GEOFF PRICE COMMISSIONED BY WEST SUFFOLK COUNCIL
When meandering through these spaces, we naturally find ourselves recalling lines from the artists and poets; maybe Wordsworth or Browning . . . It dawns on us that their inspirations could well have been written about these sights, right here, in our local domain: We are granted a taste of the wide-ranging experiences on offer in West Suffolk - from the more
WHOEVER THOU ART, BE A FREE MAN HERE, ALL IS FOR THE STRANGER, NOT ONLY FOR THE ONE WHO OWNS
formalised, showy flowerbeds of Abbey Gardens to the all-embracing canopies of Giant Redwoods at Brandon, through to the wild and lovely meadows of West Stow.
It has been said of public parks: ‘Whoever thou art, be a free man; here, all is for the stranger, not only for the one who owns’. Uplifting to our senses, the pleasures of our local green spaces
are here, in this exhibition, for all to see, providing a delightful retreat at any time of the year, whatever the season. . . Susan Corke.
The Rhythms in Colour photography exhibition is at The Apex Gallery from Wednesday 21 May to Sunday 15 June 2025. Entry to the exhibition is free.
EXPLORE HISTORY ON YOUR DOORSTEP THIS SUMMER
ABBEY RUINS
The Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds are home to the remains of the Abbey of St Edmund. Founded by King Cnut, the Benedictine Abbey was one of the richest and most important monasteries in Medieval Europe attracting pilgrims from across the globe, including royalty.
2025 DON’T MISS: Theatre in the Park – a series of summer outdoor plays set in the stunning surrounds of the Abbey Ruins.
KENTWELL HALL
One of England’s finest and most beautiful Tudor Houses, surrounded by a moat. In 1970 it stood neglected, so current owners Patrick and Judith Phillips embarked on a grand-scale restoration while making it their family home.
2025 DON’T MISS: Kentwell Through the Ages in August. Explore pockets of history from a range of different eras brought to life by Kentwell’s skilled living historians.
MELFORD HALL
Once the home of Benedictine monks from the Abbey of St Edmund, it was later owned by different generations of the Hyde Parker family. Discover the fascinating story of the Hall, from its royal connections to the times it was visited by children's author Beatrix Potter.
2025 DON’T MISS: Naval Talks – hear all about the seafaring adventures of the Hyde Parker family during talks throughout the year.
NATIONAL TRUST ICKWORTH
Discover the history of the Ickworth estate. From its beginnings as a deer park, Ickworth's story encompasses five centuries of the Hervey family, a role in the First World War and eventual acquisition by the National Trust.
2025 DON’T MISS: See Luke Gerram’s Helios at Ickworth this May. Named after the ancient Greek god of the sun, Helios offers a detailed view of the star, including rare features like sunspots. The sculpture is scaled so that each centimetre represents 2,000 kilometres of the real sun's surface.
CLARE CASTLE COUNTRY PARK
Clare Castle was home to one of the wealthiest people in England. Much of the castle has now gone, but you can still explore the 60-foot-high Norman motte, one of the tallest in the country, with the remains of a flint keep.
2025 DON’T MISS: Clare Castle is the starting point for the fascinating Clare town trail.
BURY ST EDMUNDS GUILDHALL
From courtroom dramas to kidnappings, and medieval feasts to top-secret missions, the Guildhall has centuries of incredible stories to tell.
2025 DON’T MISS: WWII Operations Rooms Open Days – see the only surviving WWII Operations Room of the Royal Observer Corps – an unsung group of local heroes who were the ‘eyes and ears of the RAF’ during the Battle of Britain.
ST EDMUNDSBURY CATHEDRAL
A church has stood on the site of the Cathedral since at least 1065 when Abbot Baldwin replaced St Denys’ Church with a church dedicated to St James. It was rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries as a parish church and became St Edmundsbury Cathedral in 1914.
2025 DON’T MISS: Cathedral Tower ToursExplore heady heights with amazing views from the top of the Millennium Tower, the highest point in Bury St Edmunds! Don’t forget your camera!
MOYSE’S HALL MUSEUM
Steeped in history, Moyse's Hall has looked out over Bury St Edmunds’ market place for almost 900 years. The landmark 12th century building’s rich and varied past has included serving as the town Bridewell, workhouse and police station, first opening as a museum in 1899.
2025 DON’T MISS: Prehistoric Beasts: Land, Sea, Sky Exhibition - Real and cast bones and skeletons of dinosaurs, sea reptiles, and land beasts, will adorn the galleries and with family trails, workshops and academic talks, it will inspire kids of all ages.
MELFORD HALL © TOM SOPER
ST EDMUNDSBURY CATHEDRAL © SHAWN PEARCE
CLARE CASTLE COUNTRY PARK
THIS SPRING, ARC SHOPPING CENTRE HAS SOME EXCITING THINGS LINED UP!
OR MOTHER'S DAY, arc’s shopping centre has something special planned to help you show your appreciation for the important women in your life.
As Easter half-term approaches, there will be plenty of family fun to enjoy with lots of activities and surprises to keep everyone entertained as there will be something for all ages to enjoy.
Be sure to check out arc’s ‘What’s On’
FAMILY FUN AT ARC FULLER FUN
section or subscribe to their newsletter for updates and more information at https://arc-burystedmunds.com/
In addition to these planned events, arc continues to offer a wide range of shopping and dining alongside leisure options for all with a diverse programme of live music and events being held at The Apex and a redefined cinema experience available at Everyman Cinema; arc has things covered to make this spring extra special for you and your family!
THIS AWARD-WINNING seven-acre garden is an enchanting waterside oasis set in the heart of Suffolk. It combines dappled woodland with a plantsman’s collection of shrubs, perennials, lilies and marginal plants to create a year-round garden. Views of its fantastic displays of form and colour reflect off its mill pond, the River Lark and Culford Stream throughout the seasons.
Fresh with new growth in spring, the garden feels full of hope and new beginnings. Scented lilies begin a succession of flowering to create a spectacular show of fragrance and colour into summer.
The garden was created by the late Bernard Tickner MBE (1924 - 2017) and in 2013, for its long-term preservation, the garden was gifted to Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to providing free, essential advice, support, services and a helpline for anyone in horticulture from new starters to retirees and their families.
The garden shares its tranquil and peaceful energy with visitors from April to October on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-5pm.
HORSEPLAY
PLANNING A VISIT TO NEWMARKET? THEN THE NATIONAL HORSERACING MUSEUM IS A MUST SEE!
WHETHER YOU’RE A LOVER of fine art, a keen racing enthusiast or simply looking for a new experience, this amazing visitor attraction provides something for the whole family.
The Museum can be found just off of the High Street, and is located on a beautiful 5-acre site. Explore the delights and historical snapshots that can be found throughout, briming with a variety of interactive displays and exhibitions, some of the country’s finest British sporting art, the opportunity to see what it takes to be a jockey on its simulator, as well as a chance to say hello to the resident ex-racehorses, not forgetting the Museum Minis, Kizzy and Harry!
Here's some exciting things coming up this spring…
EASTER PAW-TY
Friday 18 April
Easter Paw-ty returns this Easter and everyone is invited! Expect lots of themed activities for you and your pooch, including a fun dog show, Easter egg themed dog trail, dog agility displays, trade stalls and so much more.
Admission is £5 per adult and £3 per child.
HORSEPLAY: A RACING GAMES EXHIBITION
Friday 4 April - Sunday 11
January 2026
The Museum is delighted to be hosting an exciting new exhibition, Horseplay, featuring over 50 original horseracing board games, never shown before. This interactive exhibition will bring back memories of many hours spent playing horseracing themed games.
The exhibition will be supported by a wide range of activities and events running throughout the year, providing lots of opportunities for everyone to rediscover their love of games.
Entry is included in admission price. Adult £15 and Under 16s free. DON'T MISS
A ROYAL ROUND-UP
THEATRE ROYAL’S SPRING SEASON HOLDS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
MARCH
THE ART THEMEN TRIO
Wednesday 12 March
Lunchtime concert sponsored by Ellisons Solicitors.
CRACKING
Wednesday 26 March
From the ‘Legend of the Edinburgh Festival’ comes a new dark comedy drama.
A TRYAL OF WITCHES
Friday 7 – Saturday 22 March
A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production Sponsored by Chassis-Cab DAF
A performance inspired by the infamous Bury St Edmunds witch trials of the 1600s. In 1645, amidst civil war and hardship in rural East Anglia, the Witchfinder General spreads fear of witches and the devil while seeking his next victims. As crops fail and tensions rise, villagers turn to accusations of witchcraft—but this is not a trial of witches; it’s a trial of women.
The Bury St Edmunds trial was the first to use "spectral evidence," claiming witches could be in two places at once. A Tryal of Witches delves into the events that led to one of Britain’s most shocking witch trials.
THE GRUFFALO
Thursday 20 – Saturday 30 March
APRIL
SOPHIA
Tuesday 1 April
Exiled to England, the last Maharajah in Punjab and his family came to live in a home in Elveden, Suffolk. Until bankruptcy and a new mistress, swayed the Maharajah to make a new life abroad and plot to take back his kingdom.
ROYALLY FUNNY COMEDY NIGHT
Wednesday 2 April
Featuring Stephen DiPlacito, Alex Farrow, Ollie Fox and Kate Barron.
THE DREAMER - LIVE
Thursday 3 April
Booking is quick and easy online at www.theatreroyal.org . See website for Box Office opening times.
An enigmatic, dazzling, five-star rated show from James Phelan, who just happens to be Paul Daniel’s nephew.
DON'T MISS
CELEBRATING GEORGE MICHAEL
Friday 4 April
BLOOM FESTIVAL
Tuesday 8 April – Saturday 12 April
Bloom is sponsored by Arts Council England, GeeWizz, Ridley Godfrey Foundation, West Suffolk Council, and Suffolk County Council.
A participation theatre festival celebrating the feelings of power and creativity that comes from experiencing theatre. Bloom Festival combines ‘Pay What You Can’ performances and workshops for all members of the community to get involved in. The following performances are shown as a double bill…
• Ginger Jones and The Sultan’s Eye performed by Youth Theatre 8-11s
• Wellington 24 performed by Youth Theatre 12-16s
MARK THOMPSON’S SPECTACULAR SCIENCE
Tuesday 15 April
WHOLE
Thursday 17 April
An intimate journey looking into grief while exploring sibling joy, female rage and the healing power of a creative mission.
TOTAL POP PARTY
Saturday 19 April
HANDBAGGED
Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 April
A clever, funny and charming political comedy sponsored by Ashtons Legal.
IRVING STAGE COMPANY PRESENTS: A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED
Tuesday 29 April – Saturday 3 May
Join Miss Marple as she unravels the mystery and unmasks the guilty killer!
CLASSIC FEMME
Wednesday 30 April
Lunchtime concert sponsored by Ellisons Solicitors.
MAY
THE LITTLE MERMAID
Sunday 4 May
Brand new family musical with original songs.
ROYALLY FUNNY COMEDY NIGHT
Wednesday 7 May
A hilarious line-up of touring comedians, big and small, you won’t want to miss.
APPRAISAL
Thursday 8 May
A two-hander Comedy played out in real-time.
RAT PACK LIVE!
Friday 9 May
HARRY HILL: NEW BITS AND GREATEST HITS
Saturday 10 May
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
Tuesday 13 –
Saturday 17 May
Presented by Bury St
Edmunds Operatic and Dramatic Society
LUNCHTIME CONCERT: THE CHAMPAGNE TRIO
Wednesday 14 May
JULIAN CLARY: A FIST FULL OF CLARY
Wednesday 21 May
TWIST AND SHOUT
Friday 23 May
MUSICAL THEATRE MASTERCLASS: OLIVER!
Tuesday 27 May
Join professional performer Grace Wellfare for an action-packed morning of dance!
THE WORST PRINCESS
Friday 30 May - Saturday 31 May
Sing-a-long pop anthems, giant puppets and impressive staging for this children’s classic.
JUNE
THE ERAS EXPERIENCE: TAYLOR SWIFT
Saturday 21 June
Tribute by Xenna
WHAT'S ON AT THE GUILDHALL
CODES, SECRETS, AND SABOTAGE
Sunday 30 March 2025, 11am
Due to popular demand, military historian Paul Hunt returns to the Guildhall with a tantalising talk that delves into covert operations that shaped WWII. Using rare artefacts from his unique collection, Paul will expose the role played by secret organisations such as the Special Operations Executive (S.O.E) and Special Air Services (S.A.S).
Tickets £10 per person
ICENI BOTANICAL ARTISTS
EXHIBITION: FULLERS MILL
GARDEN - A JEWEL IN THE FOREST
Saturday 28 June to Saturday 12 July 2025, 10am to 4pm daily
Iceni Botanical Artists are delighted to be back at the Guildhall with their annual exhibition. This year, it will feature 163 paintings of plants and vistas of Fullers Mill Gardens, West Stow, Suffolk. Over the last two years, IBA artists have been working in the gardens in association with the Perennial Charity - a Gardeners Royal Benevolent Society, painting the favourite plants of the late Bernard Tickner.
Free Admission - all works for sale
ROYAL OBSERVER CORPS OPERATION ROOM OPEN DAYS 2025
10am – 4pm, Free Admission
Explore our Royal Observer Corps Operation Room, where our wonderful volunteers are waiting to take you on a journey back to World War Two. Find out about a group of unsung heroes who were the ‘eyes and ears of the RAF’… Dates include: Sunday 30 March; Sunday 27 April - Featuring 17th Century Reenactors: A Master Scrivener and his Wife; Sunday 25 May; Sunday 29 June
BOOK A GUILDHALL TOUR
With your personal tour guide, you will be taken on a journey through the Guildhall’s remarkable 800–year history. From courtroom dramas to kidnappings, medieval feasts to top-secret missions, the Guildhall has centuries of incredible stories to tell.
Tickets £10 per person
To find out more about events, tours, or venue hire, please visit www.burystedmundsguildhall.org.uk
© KEITH SLATER
© REBECCA AUSTIN
SPRING
AT ICKWORTH
ICKWORTH ON THE WORLD STAGE…
A bumper year lies ahead for Ickworth Estate as themes of travel and inspiration run through the upcoming events and exhibitions in 2025. Kicking things off in March, the House is reopened fully for free-flow access with one tour per day (bookable on the website). A new exhibition will be installed on the firstfloor landing introducing three of the key characters who lived at Ickworth. Later in the summer an exhibition will move outside, leading visitors on a selfguided and informative tour through the exquisite gardens.
Throughout the spring and summer, you are all invited to experience the gardens and parkland during a series of exciting events such as performances by Bury Concert Band and outdoor cinema screenings (these will be ticketed events with more information available on the website).
FOR CHILDREN
For the Easter Holidays, from Saturday 5 – Saturday 22 April, the grounds will be transformed into a fun and active Easter Trail for youngsters to run, jump, play and explore the great outdoors. With summer comes the National Trust’s ‘Summer of Play’ season and, at Ickworth, the walled garden provides a huge space for an assortment of games, activity stations and freedom for the whole family. This will be running for the duration of the school holidays in July and August.
COMES TO ICKWORTH
From 2 – 5 May and 8 – 11 May, Ickworth will be home to an art installation the likes of which it has never seen before! Artist Luke Jerram has created a breathtaking sculpture of the sun, seven metres in diameter, that fuses solar imagery, sunlight and a specially created surround sound to immerse guests during their visit (more information can be found on the website).
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth
HELIOS
© NATIONAL TRUST - JAMES DOBSON
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF THE CATHEDRAL’S TOWER
20 YEARS AGO, DURING THE SUMMER OF 2005, THE CATHEDRAL’S MILLENNIUM TOWER WAS COMPLETED!
WORK BEGAN on the project in July 1999. The brief provided to the contractors, Sindalls of Cambridge, was to build a tower in the medieval tradition which would last a thousand years with minimum maintenance. The only materials used in the construction of the tower were brick for the structure, stone for the facing, and lime mortar to hold it all together.
The tower build in numbers:
• 600,000 Suffolk white bricks were made especially for the project and the lime mortar mix took six months to perfect
• 9,244 individual stones were cut, each to their own hand drawn template
• 3,800 tonnes of stone was used in total, and stonemasonry work accounted for half the entire cost of the build
• 202 steps take you from the Cathedral Nave to the top of the tower
• The scaffolding for the tower build consisted of 98 miles of tubes and beams, 3,000 boards and 128,000 clips – enough to construct 350 houses simultaneously!
His Royal Highness King Charles III became the patron for the tower build when he was Prince of Wales and visited the site throughout the build. He also attended the completion ceremony in 2005. He described the tower as, “A spiritual beacon for the new Millennium’’.
Book a Tower Tour and find out more. Tours run March to October - visit stedscathedral.org/tower-tours
CINEMA FIT FOR A KING
INGS CINEMA, located on Fitzroy Street in Newmarket, opened in April 2024 to provide the latest cinematic and event screenings to the people of Newmarket and the surrounding area.
The site has been used by Newmarket Operatic Musical and Dramatic Society (NOMADS) for the last 40 years and after installing a full-size cinema screen and a Dolby surround sound system, to ensure that cinema-goers receive the full experience of visiting the big screen, Kings Cinema was born!
At Kings Cinema we show it all including the latest blockbuster releases, fun films to keep the kids entertained, and immersive and impressive stage performances
recorded live from the Royal Opera House and The National Theatre, all screened on the big screen in a cosy, vintage theatre setting.
The large 24 hour Grosvenor Yard car park is immediately opposite the venue and there is car parking for disabled use in front of the venue itself. There are two wheelchair spaces available in the auditorium. Other facilities on site include a licensed bar selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a refreshment kiosk selling popcorn, ice-cream and hot drinks, and the whole cinema is available to rent for private screenings for that special event. Follow us on Facebook or go to www. kingscinema.co.uk to keep up to date on all our latest releases and events.
DISCOVER NEWMARKET
KNOWN AS THE HOME OF HORSERACING, NEWMARKET IS A WONDERFUL MIX OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE, CELEBRATING THE SPORT OF KINGS. FROM THE TOP OF WARREN HILL, DOWN TO THE PADDOCKS AT THE NATIONAL STUD, NEWMARKET IS FULL OF FASCINATING STORIES, JUST WAITING TO BE TOLD.
EXPLORING NEWMARKET couldn’t be simpler with the help of Discover Newmarket, the town’s tourism organisation, as they provide a variety of exciting tours for groups and individuals, as well as for budgets of all sizes. 2025 is set to be an exciting year for Discover Newmarket, as it marks their 10 year anniversary. So, whether you’re planning a day trip, staycation or week-long stay, why not celebrate this landmark year with them, and join
them on one of their exclusive ‘money can’t buy’, VIP tours launching this spring.
Ever experienced the prestigious training grounds of Newmarket? Set your alarms early, as Discover Newmarket launch their new Gallops Tour. During this 2-hour experience, you’ll have the opportunity to step onto these fabulous training grounds, spanning 2,500 acres and used by over 3,000 horses every day. You’ll be able to see these magnificent equine athletes in
training, and maybe a well-known face or two! This is a sight you simply cannot see anywhere else.
If a trip to the National Stud is more suited to you, then you’ll have the delight of being one of the first to see their newest stallion, Champion Sprinter, Bradsell, who has joined Stradivarius and other champions of the turf, in the Stallion Unit. Not only that, as you arrive at the Foaling Unit, you’ll be in for a treat as 2025’s newest arrivals speckle the fields, as foaling season commences.
The National Stud tours begin in March and run right through to October and are available Friday to Sunday weekly.
Why not take a look at what else is on in Newmarket?
CHAMPAGNE AFTERNOON TEA AND TOUR
Sunday 16 March 2025
Looking to celebrate a special occasion, or simply looking to treat a loved one to an afternoon at the prestigious Jockey Club Rooms? This illustrious tour provides you with an amazing insight into the history of horseracing, with a delicious afternoon tea to finish.
£55 per person
BET365 CRAVEN MEETING
Tuesday 15 – Thursday 17 April 2025
The flat season returns to the Rowley Mile Racecourse for the first meet of 2025, with this exciting three-day spectacular.
Why not enjoy watching the future stars of racing, with the Craven Breeze Up Tour on Monday 14 April, a great pre-race meeting tour.
NEWMARKET RACE NIGHTS
Starting from 20 June
Summer is officially here when racing descends on the July Racecourse for their renowned Newmarket Nights. An abundance of headline acts are set to take centre stage throughout the summer, as we see Ministry of Sound Classical be the first of five nights you’ll be able to enjoy throughout the summer months.
For more information on what’s happening in and around Newmarket, visit www.discovernewmarket.co.uk, the town’s official tourism service and tour guide.
HE COFFEE HOUSE
AT THE APEX
PRE-SHOW
SHARING PLATTERS
TThe Coffee House at the Apex serves locally roasted coffee, lunches and fresh cakes every day of the week to relax and refresh. Whether you are shopping, visiting the market or working locally we cater to theatre and non-theatre goers. We offer in-house drinks for the prestigious entertainment venue and can offer food and hospitality packages for meetings and events in the theatre, studio and meeting rooms. Email enquiries@the-athenaeum.com for meeting rooms at both the historic Athenaeum and the contemporary Apex.
Did you know that you can pre-order from a choice of four platters so that you can eat an hour before the show with a glass of wine or beer at The Apex?
Pre-booking is essential – please book via The Apex website
Four stylish and delicious options for £17.50 per platter (including a glass of wine, beer or soft drink).
FROM THE VEGETABLE PATCH
grilled vegetables, aubergine, hummus, olives and sourdough.
FROM THE CURING HOUSE with cold meats, peppers, artichokes, olives and rich tomato chutney.
FROM THE SEA with freshly smoked fish, bread, shrimps, pickles and horseradish.
FROM THE ORCHARD crackers and Stilton, Brie and a Mature Cheddar cheese and chutney.
SPECIALITY PLATTERS
Look out for our NEW themed speciality platters for certain events created with a bit of an entertainment twist on your food and dining experience.
Fathers’ Day, yet to be announced.
SHARING PLATTER
AT THE ATHENAEUM
HE ATHENAEUM is the most elegant, romantic and historic events venue set in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, near the historic Cathedral.
TThe venue caters from an intimate wedding ceremony and reception of only 10 guests (to formal dining in the newly refurbished Ballroom for 150/200) or you can exclusively hire the whole building for 350.
In the good weather, you can enjoy fizz and canapes served to you after the ceremony in the neighbouring Abbey Gardens, whilst you are having your photos taken, to entertain your guests.
Our Chefs tailor your menu, drinks and cocktails to your budget or your imagination to celebrate with your friends, colleagues or business delegates with our most popular hospitality packages. Call 01284 758380 or email enquiries@the-athenaeum.com to book a viewing of the venue.
EVENTS FOR YOUR DIARY…
WEDDING OPEN DAY
Sunday 11th May
Join us from 11am until 3pm for our Wedding Open Day to meet and talk to the sales and event teams. Talk to our local wedding suppliers and imagine your special day unfolding. Descend the double staircase beneath the chandeliers in the stunning rooms at the Athenaeum, once visited by Royals, and famous writers throughout history.
FAULTY TOWERS
– THE DINING EXPERIENCE
Friday 17th & Saturday 18th October
The ‘simply unmissable and outrageously funny’ Faulty Towers Immersive Dining Experience is returning in October and will provide entertainment whilst you dine in the Ballroom.
Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve up mayhem alongside a 3 course meal and two hours of non-stop laughter. Tickets on sale now!
Best of Theatre, London West End
FAULTY TOWERS
ATHENAEUM FOYER
WHAT'S ON AT THE QUAY
w: quaysudbury.com
t: 01787 374745
OUR SPRING SEASON which runs through to the end of April, reflects our updated Artistic Vision for The Quay and a large part of this is our commitment going forward to expand our offering for families with lots of shows during the school holidays for children and their adults.
The People’s Theatre Company musical Storytime: The Big Egg is an ideal Easter treat!
Developing our comedy programme, we’re delighted to welcome Geoff Norcott back for two dates of Work
DON'T MISS
WE ARE ESPECIALLY DELIGHTED TO WELCOME
18-PIECE BIG BAND THE HORN FACTORY TO THE QUAY FOR THE FIRST TIME
In Progress and we have the comic stylings of Barbara Nice, Kevin Precious with musings on his previous career in education as The Reluctant Teacher
Our drama continues, as Eastern Angles bring their latest production, Sophia to Sudbury in March whilst Old School Theatre are presenting A Dolls House Part Two, Lucas Hnath’s 2017 play which picks up the story where Ibsen’s 1879 classic concludes as their first production at The Quay.
Music, we are especially delighted to welcome 18-piece Big Band The Horn Factory to The Quay for the first time as well as acclaimed singer and songwriter for the stars Charlie Dore
Be sure not to miss this year’s Andrew Phillips History Evenings and our programme of National Theatre Live and Royal Opera and Ballet screenings
NEW TOURS FOR 2025
JOHN SAUNDERS, MARKETING OFFICER FOR BURY TOWN GUIDES WRITES:
THE YEAR OF 2024 was a great success for Bury Tour Guides. A record 2,228 people from 23 different countries undertook tours; reviews on TripAdvisor placed the guided tours in the top 10% worldwide tourist attractions; nomination for a business award highlighted their overall performance.
So, what lies ahead in 2025? Before 31 March you may be able to grab one of the remaining Ghostly & Macabre Tours. These have proved popular with repeat clients, those who have previously experienced the tours but come back for more. Customers have also been attracted from as far afield as the outer parts of London and the Home Counties.
The new season of 11am daily tours start on 1 April and will be supported by a programme of events that will include some newly written tours.
By public demand there will also be repeats of the ‘Masters of the Air’ tours about wartime in Bury St Edmunds which includes an opportunity to visit the Operations Room at the Guildhall. Once again, we are anticipating the attraction of this particular tour to Americans and local people who are fascinated to learn of the ways in which life in the town changed.
For people who may no longer work alongside each other in the office, the tours provide an opportunity to get together and perhaps enjoy a drink or meal afterwards. Others treat family or friends, for a special occasion. Of course, there are the many visitors who are in awe of the beauty of our town and enjoy its history.
Whichever category you fall into, a welcome awaits… book your tour at www.burystedmundstourguides.org but be quick because some tours get snapped up early!
BEFORE 31 MARCH YOU MAY BE ABLE TO GRAB ONE OF THE REMAINING GHOSTLY & MACABRE TOURS
ART AT THE APEX GALLERY
THE APEX GALLERY holds a range of exhibitions throughout the year. The gallery features works by emerging and established artists, as well as engaging with West Suffolk's various community art groups, offering them an opportunity to display their work in a professional environment. Read on for information on our upcoming exhibitions …
Gallery opening times: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm & Sun 10am-4pm
BURY ST EDMUNDS PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY EXHIBITION
From Tue 18 Mar – Sun 20 Apr
Bury St Edmunds Photographic Society is proud to present a new exhibition for 2025 showcasing the skills of some of the area’s most talented amateur photographers across a wide spectrum of subjects including local interest, architecture, landscape, wildlife, sports, close-up photography and portraiture.
GOSHAWK ON PHEASANT BY JACKIE GILLMAN-DACE CPAGB BPE2
SWALLOWTAIL FINE ARTISTS EXHIBITION
From Tue 17 Jun – Sun 13 Jul
Lorraine Auton, Amanda SpringallRogers and Tony Colledge return with their exhibition of wildlife paintings, studies and wild landscapes.
THE GALLERY FEATURES WORKS BY EMERGING AND ESTABLISHED ARTISTS
EAF ANNUAL EXHIBITION OF PRINTS AND PROJECTED DIGITAL IMAGES 2025
From Sat 3 May – Sun 18 May
The East Anglian Federation of Photographic Societies annual exhibition is a showcase for the best of the work of members of all of the affiliated Photographic Clubs and Societies in the region.
TREE IN MIST AND FROSTJOHN MCDOWALL
SUNRISE ON THE RIVER CROUCH - JOHN MCDOWALL
FUNGI AND FAIRY DUST - SOPHIA SPURGIN
Sunday 24th & Monday 25th August 10.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 25th & Monday 26th May 10.00am - 4.00pm Thursday 20th November 3.00pm - 8.00pm
