STONES Vol.9

FRESCO AL

AL FRESCO

AL FRESCO AL

Whether

Bouquets for local and nationwide delivery

Flower Schools & more –

Keep up to date with our Flower workshops by following us on Instagram or Facebook, @bloomroyston –33 Market Hill Royston, SG8 9JS

01763 290 157 www.bloomroyston.co.uk

Mon - Fri: 9:30am-5:00pm Sat: 9:00am-5:00pm Sun: Closed

Weddings, Events & Tribute Flowers

OPEN FOR THE SUMMER

I. PEOPLE II. PLACES

p10.

Oliver Franklin-Wallis

The STONES team met with Oliver, who told us all about the launch of his new book WASTELAND: The Dirty Truth About What We Throw Away, Where It Goes, And Why It Matters.

p12. Luke Chadwick

p25.

ESSE

As it approaches it’s 20th birthday, the STONES team took the opportunity to re-discover Esse; Melbourn’s luxurious gem, with so much to offer.

p36.

The Royal Oak

We paid a visit to this much loved, iconic, 14th century village pub which has undergone an exciting restoration and refurbishment. A go-to dining destination in Barrington.

p46. Cambridge Country Club

III. PRESENT

Retired Premier League footballer, Luke Chadwick, inspires us all with his love for football and his ambition to build the Football Fun Factory, into the World’s leading children’s football coaching organisation. p08. Editor's Update

Looking forward to the summer, we remind you to go beyond, push boundaries, explore and enjoy what’s around you. There is more to explore than you think.

p14. Sanders + Jay

More about Sanders + Jay, creators of STONES magazine, a creative design and marketing agency, based in Royston.

p18. Garden Design

Vanessa and Rachel from VaRa Garden Design tell the STONES team their top tips for utilising your outside space, helping you make the most of it.

p28.

Love That Hat

We've discovered Love That Hat just in time for another wedding and Racing season; incredibly affordable as well as environmentally friendly!

p30.

Contrasting

Alexandra Weissova, Co-Founder of PAUS, talks about the benefits of hot and cold immersion therapy to improve both physical and mental wellbeing.

p56.

Travel Destinations 2023

Premier Travel inspires our next trip, with the Top Travel Destinations of 2023.

p64.

Watch & Listen

Our recommendations on what should be added to your next to watch and listen list.

Venture to the beautifully refurbished Cambridge Country Club, nestled away on the outskirts of the Cambridge. Indulge in a little ‘me time’, release the stress of everyday life, tone up, or spend some time on the golf course. STONES recommends.

IV. PROPERTY

p60. Properties

Ensum Brown provide us a with some of their top hot properties, available right now! p62. Town Trail #15

V. PAST

Throughout our issues we will guide you through Royston’s historical trail.

Passion Project

Welcome to Volume 9 of STONES Magazine. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outstanding team of individuals from Sanders + Jay Design and Marketing agency who work tirelessly to bring this local lifestyle magazine to life, showcasing the best of the area and providing a platform for all around us to prosper.

This is no easy task, it’s a labour of love and crafted alongside our full time roles, but we are incredibly passionate about the project and continue to put everything into it. We are ardent supporters of the community and environment we live in, as well as sustainability, paired with style, trends and design.

In each volume we try to keep it fresh, vibrant, visual and emotive to inspire ‘positive change’ which is a core brand value of our business.

People Who makes a difference

Places Inspire an adventure

Present What’s new?

Property Home renovations and property

Past History and heritage

As we look forward to the summer sun, go beyond, push boundaries, explore and enjoy what’s around you, there is more to explore than you think.

JoshFounderMurphy, & Editor

The Dirty Truth About What We Throw Away, Where It Goes, And Why It Matters.

Oliver Franklin-Wallis grew up in Kent then started a journey into journalism when he studied at Cardiff University. Since then he has written pieces for many household publications including The Guardian, The New York Times, WIRED Magazine and more recently GQ.

Oliver now lives in Royston with his partner Hannah and their two daughters and has spent the last 4 years researching for his new book, released in June. He sold the concept of the book in 2019 then the pandemic delayed research and travel plans. However, Oliver managed to work around it and completed the book in time.

Wasteland: The Dirty Truth About What We Throw Away, Where It Goes, And Why It Matters is a non fiction, fascinating book about all of the different places our rubbish goes after we throw it away. Oliver travelled alone to various, significant places around the world and was met by local guides who showed him around landfill sites, wastelands and even a nuclear waste facility

where nuclear waste will need to be kept for the next 10,000 years!

Oliver was inspired to write about this particular topic when he was researching a piece for The Guardian a few years ago. As a part of that research, he visited a recycling factory in Essex. When he spoke with a worker there, he said “One day, everything you own will belong to me”. This was a real light bulb moment for Oliver and he started thinking deeply about where all of this waste we create is actually going. It’s a topic that we don’t generally think too much about, which unfortunately allows people and organisations to commit environmental crimes across the globe.

Oliver’s book will be available from all good book shops, Amazon and is also available as an audible book. This really is a topic that we should all learn more about so we would highly recommend getting yourself a copy and supporting this local author and journalist.

playing for… playing for…

FUN!

FUn!

Some years ago, there was a young boy from Meldreth who’s Dad took him along to Abbey Stadium to watch Cambridge United play football. From that day forward, something sparked in him and a passion for football was firmly installed.

That boy was Luke Chadwick and that passion developed into a serious talent. At just 14 years old, and attending Melbourn Village College, Luke was picked to go for trials at Manchester United which were a success and so he embarked on his career as a professional footballer.

Luke said that he always loved all sports, even playing a little cricket for Melbourn Cricket Club, but that football was the one sport that always really had his heart.

His footballing career included playing for big name clubs like Manchester United and West Ham United and even England, amongst others, and then in March 2014 Luke joined his beloved Cambridge United, where he played until his retirement the following year.

On the lead up to Luke’s retirement, he started working on gaining his coaching qualifications as this seemed like the next

logical step for his career. He secured a coaching job at Cambridge University Academy but he found that he didn’t enjoy it as much as he had hoped he would.

The opportunity arose to become involved with Football Fun Factory, which is an organisation providing childhood football experiences to children in the Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire regions through fun camps, birthday parties and development training. Luke immediately loved it and found that it really reminded him of his own early years journey into football, and why he fell in love with the sport in the first place. It’s not about professional football, it’s about playing for FUN.

Luke now resides in Orwell, Cambridgeshire with his family, whilst he works on Football Fun Factory, with the ambition to build it into the World’s leading children’s football coaching organisation. Judging by Luke’s other impressive achievements, we don’t doubt for a second that this will be realised!

Find out more about the development sessions and fun camps:

thefootballfunfactory.co.uk

Sanders + Jay, the creators of STONES magazine, is a creative design and marketing agency based in Royston which has experienced substantial growth in the last 18 months.

Founded back in 2018 by local entrepreneur Josh Murphy, after a sustained career in branding and design, we spoke to Josh about the journey of Sanders + Jay so far.

How did Sanders + Jay start?

At the time of setting up Sanders and Jay, I felt lost and unfulfilled in my marketing career, suppressing my creativity in order to deliver on detail and rigour within a corporate environment, so I decided to form a creative agency with no limits. Initially, with just me as a consultant and a broad skillset to deliver against a variety of design and marketing services, the business rapidly developed as projects came in. With new business coming in, I then went on a mission to surround myself with experts in their field, to enable us to now deliver a 360 agency service from web design, branding and marketing to videography and photography.

Where does the name Sanders + Jay come from?

The name was inspired by our children’s middle names (eldest child) “Jay” and (second child) “Sanders”. When our third son came along, we didn’t want to leave him out, so his middle name derived from the “and” and became “Anderson”. The premise behind the brand was always about positive change and a platform for the future, so the children in this case represent the future.

Tell us about the organic growth of Sanders + Jay

We have seen some exciting growth within the business where we went from a single consultancy to a team of 10 within 18 months, not only attracting some of the most exciting local businesses, but also larger global organisations. Whilst we have grown is size, we still want to maintain our agility and dynamic approach to partnering brands, alongside improving our processes and client experience.

Predominantly we have benefited from word of mouth, however some of our biggest clients are through referral, which is testament to the team and their expertise.

How did you scale up?

Originally working out of Kooky Nohmad co-working space, where we were able to scale the business over time without the substantial overheads of renting an office space. Adding expertise as we went along, our capabilities and outputs significantly increased and we are now able to offer a big agency experience from our home town of Royston. In my opinion, people make the difference and I am very proud of the team we have today, however the introduction of two people really formed the building blocks of scaling up the business when it was in its infancy. Firstly Sophie Murphy, business partner and wife, added structure, rigour, creativity and process to our operations and our Head Designer and Partner in the business Steve Eggs took our design to a new level, with his vast London agency experience. I can honestly say he is one of the most accomplished designers I have ever had the pleasure of working with.

With a growing team came the need to find a place to call our own, so we moved a stones throw away to Upton House in Royston, where we have been able to enhance our positive culture, work collaboratively as a team as well as host our brand strategy days and client meetings.

What’s the plans for the future?

With our team in place I am very positive about the future, where I see us adding to our already impressive portfolio of national and global brands. However, we remain rooted and invested in the greater good for our community and relish the opportunity to work with local brands and organisations.

As part of that we will continue to support our charitable activations such as our recent sponsorship of the King James Academy Year 10 football team, the branding for The Bridge student wellbeing centre, Addenbrookes Charitable Trust, Make Lunch and, of course STONES Magazine. We look to continue nurturing our existing relationships and build new connections with inspiring businesses and individuals.

What makes Sanders + Jay different?

We started out on a mission to create a platform for positive change for the future and we are proud to have positively impacted our community and the businesses we have worked with over the last few years. We are passionate about getting to know your business, who’s behind the brand and what makes it unique, so that we can help communicate your point of difference, whether that be through your branding, tone of voice, marketing communications or website.

Having now created a 360 design and marketing agency service we can truly partner brands for future growth, which is all part of our nurture strategy of long term relationships.

If you want to find out how we can elevate your business then get in touch today. hello@sandersandjay.com

Garden TopDesign Tips

Written by Vanessa and Rachel at VaRa Garden Design.

With the weather finally turning warmer, you may now have the chance to venture out and sit in your garden (and not just look at it from indoors!). Whilst you’re enjoying the sights and sounds that summertime has to offer, it’s the perfect time to take stock of what works and what doesn’t in your outdoor space, and make plans. How do you want to feel in your garden next summer? Have you got grand designs on how you’d prefer to use the space?

Now is a great time to plan a garden refresh, whether it be the layout, the planting, or both. There are lots of elements to consider, for example;

Does your garden offer lots of interest at the beginning of the summer and then go quiet for the rest of the year?

Does it have little to offer you when you look out from your house, particularly in the winter?

When you are in your garden, what catches your eye?

Do you want to introduce the sound of water for your own relaxation or perhaps to encourage more wildlife?

Another way of looking at it is, how do you want to use your garden?

Do you like to sit out to eat and need a larger patio space?

Would you like some shade so that you can sit out even when it’s really hot?

Perhaps you want to reduce the size of your lawn and introduce more planting?

Above:

VaRa Rural Country Garden

Next page:

VaRa Contemporary Country Garden & Urban Garden

Are there areas where you require some privacy or screening?

Do the routes out of the house just take you the wrong way?!

Would you like some growing space for vegetables or cut flowers?

Make some notes about the things that work and those you wish to change.

It’s also good to think about framing the views within the garden and back to your house; take photos from different positions and think about what you are looking at all year round. The right layout should create routes and destinations to invite you out there and back - even in small gardens it’s important to get this right.

So once you have made some decisions about what you want to achieve, how do you set about making it happen? Well, it’s important to remember that you don’t always need to start from scratch.

Consider what plants you can keep in your existing space; what looks healthy or is growing well, locally to you. It’s likely that similar plants will work in the similar conditions of your garden too. Just be mindful of sun and shade within your own space‘right plant, right place’ is key to help getting plants to establish quickly and thrive in your garden.

Aside from plants, is there a cherished sculptural piece, like a large pot or a bird bath, that you could reposition to retain the essence of your garden (and avoid spending money unnecessarily)?! These sort of elements add permanence and focal points to a garden, all year round.

Can you repurpose other hard landscaping materials that are already in the space? It makes good design (and economical) sense to use or add to what you have already. Linking materials, colours and textures is vital to making the garden feel considered and cohesive.

framing the views within the garden

framing views within garden

Planting can be an impactful way of making a change. Here are our top tips for what to add;

The areas close to the house are visible year round, so choose plants that have long seasons of interest with strong silhouettes or interesting shapes, even when they have lost their leaves. Look out for colourful bark or autumn colour. Choosing early and late flowering plants, and using bulbs to extend the season, not only helps wildlife but gives you more to look at for longer. Even when flowers have died back, plants can retain amazing foliage and seed heads that can last right through the winter.

Try not to be tempted to buy one of everything that is looking good at the garden centre. Instead, look at the conditions the plant will work in and always buy multiples in odd numbers, unless it’s a real statement one-off plant or two plants to sit either side of a door or path. It’s really hard not to succumb but it will really help bring rhythm to the planting!

All gardens need evergreen planting to underpin the structure of the garden year round and most gardens could benefit from adding a tree. There are all sorts of shapes and sizes that will work. A tree in a large pot in a small courtyard garden can work wonders, and there are plenty of suitable options for smaller gardens if you want to add a bit of privacy and height. Trees bring great structure and vertical interest to a garden, which can often be missing. They also have a really positive effect on the environment, helping with air quality, providing wildlife habitat and offering shade in the summer months.

Finally, if you have space (even a small patch will help) try and have a wilder area - wildflower turf works well, and try not to be too tidy especially through the colder months. Mark the seasons, there really is beauty and value in decay and it helps the natural world too.

If that all seems too tricky to bring together and you need some help try The Association of Professional Landscapes, which has a designer members register - just put in your postcode to find your local registered garden designers.

VaRa Garden Design is a local award-winning garden design duo who have some key design principles and advice to offer, to help you make the most of your outside space, however large or small.

VaRa Garden Design can be found here

He Found Gardening

I provide regular garden maintenance offering weekly, fortnightly or monthly visits tailored to you and your gardens needs. This isn't just a business, it's a passion and I treat every garden as if it's my own.

www.hefoundgardening.co.uk

Call - 07788 274 726

VaRa Garden Design

VaRa Garden Design is an award-winning collaboration between garden designers Vanessa Hoch and Rachel Pocock. A friendly and creative studio, VaRa brings wonderfully crafted gardens to life, specialising in residential projects of all sizes in Hertfordshire and the surrounding counties

www.varagardendesign.co.uk

Valiant

Light up your garden with the Outdoor String Lights by Valiant.

Includes 25 clear, round ‘festoon’ style bulbs and a 2.5m cable, making it easy to power up your lights from a mains socket. You can even connect multiple sets in sequence to cover a larger area. Perfect for those cosy summer nights.

Get an exclusive 15% off when you quote STONESSUMMER15 at checkout.

Bonfeu

Bonfeu has expanded its operations and is now based in the UK!

Bonfeu is a brand known for its highquality fire bowls, garden fireplaces and more, which are both stylish and durable. These products make it easy to create a cosy atmosphere in the garden and are ideal for outdoor cooking!

The Bonfeu collection consists of garden fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, fire bowls and accessories, such as pizza ovens, grill stands, cooking skewers and even aprons.

info@bonfeu.co.uk / 01763 290143

5% discount for STONES readers using code: boncode5%

As it approaches it’s 20th birthday, we wanted to take the opportunity to re-discover Esse. Melbourn’s luxurious gem; nestled in a beautiful spot, just a stones throw from the A10 between Royston and Cambridge.

Mother and daughter partnership, Sally and Steff, are clearly passionate about the decadent destination they have created, nurtured and grown over the years, and it has evolved into a venue where you can easily spend a care free day, dedicated to yourself or shared with a loved one.

On entering the front door, you will find yourself in the retail area and reception where you can check yourself in for a treatment, grab a coffee and slice of locally made cake at the coffee bar or browse the rails for a new wardrobe addition! When we visited, the rails were packed full of beautiful summer dresses (with very affordable price tags!) as well as other holiday staples, seasonal accessories and occasion wear. With a clear environmental conscience, most items for sale are sustainable, organic and natural, including the cosmetic and healthcare ranges. There is such a varied abundance of treasures to be discovered that it would be almost impossible to leave empty handed, whether you’re treating yourself or buying a gift - there really is something for everyone here.

Once you walk through the retail area and past the nail bar, you will open a door up into a sunny and peaceful courtyard, peppered with charming bistro tables and chairs. The courtyard leads on to what was previously a yoga studio but is now the gorgeous Esse cafe. The cafe is open Monday - Friday and the space is also available for private hire and events. The menu has a mediterranean feel with a focus on big flavours, healthy options and catering for dietary requirements - the perfect lunch spot, perhaps complimented by a glass of bubbles. As well as the food being served, there is also a stock of specialist dry goods which are available to purchase. After months of research, Sally proudly stated that they are confident they have sourced the BEST coffee to serve to their guests and finally discovered it at Exmouth Market!

Heading back inside, we find our way through to the exercise studio. This is hired out by various instructors and is used for many different classes including yoga, pilates and barre. Esse actively encourage stopping for a coffee and a chat after the classes and believe that the social benefits of these classes are just as important as the health ones.

Last but certainly not least, we head up the statement, spiral staircase to the beauty and spa area. This is perhaps what Esse is widely known for, and for very good reason. The spa area is an intimate, luxurious and comfortable setting, where you can visit for a treatment or check yourself in for a full day of relaxation. You could go along with a friend or take some time just for yourself and find a cosy corner to read and gather your thoughts. The treatment rooms have a warm and inviting ambience and there is a sauna which is available to all beauty clients.

Whether you are coming for the first time or re-discovering ESSE, Sally and Steff really have created a special destination that offers so many reasons to visit. If you need to locate the STONES team, you’ll find us in the courtyard with a slice of cake and a glass of something cold - see you there!

If you would like to join the ESSE team then they are currently recruiting for an experienced therapist. Visit the website for more details.

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

Photography by: Rebecca Couture Millinery

NOT, WANT NOT

As another wedding and racing season is underway, the challenge has begun to pair the right head piece to suit every outfit in order to look fabulous, but new looks don’t have to be costly.

Unless you invest in a staple coloured hat or fascinator, then you may find yourself buying a statement piece, which, let’s face it, may only be worn once or perhaps twice at a push! Well, in the spirit of being more conscientious about our waste, we have stumbled across ‘Love That Hat’ and wanted to share this brilliant initiative with you.

Love That Hat offer a huge collection of designer millinery, with nearly one thousand pieces to hire or buy at affordable prices. Match your outfit perfectly and wear a statement or colour co-ordinated piece, with a wide range of styles and top designers including Peter Bettley, Rebecca Couture, Phillip Treacy, Vivien Sheriff, Nigel Rayment, Niche & many more.

Based in Newmarket, Suffolk, Love That Hat offer a professional service with one-to-one consultations and specialist advice. Hire prices start from just £20 which makes it incredibly affordable as well as environmentally friendly. A bespoke service is also available, should you require something unique or different.

Photography by: Rebecca Couture Millinery

CONTRAST ING

TRAST-

CONTRASTING

Diet, nutrition and exercise have taken centre stage in mental and physical wellbeing but there is so much more we can be doing than obsessing over what we eat.

There is a new (or not so new) kid on the block…hot and cold immersion therapy. It is one of the oldest and simplest ways to improve both physical and mental wellbeing. Alternating between hot and cold temperatures -  simply called “contrasting” - draws inspiration from the ancient traditions of various cultures around the globe. It is accessible to everyone and it is beautifully ageless.

Contrasting offers a wealth of health benefits. Scientific research studies have shown that alternating between hot and cold temperatures can improve vascular health, increase antioxidant activity (therefore boosting immunity), improve hormonal balance and even stimulate the production of certain proteins which protect cells from damage.

Beyond the physical advantages, contrasting therapy can profoundly impact emotional wellbeing through the body. The alternating use of hot tubs or saunas and cold plunge pools elevate mood by raising levels of happiness hormones (endorphins), in turn relieving negative thoughts, symptoms of menopause, as well as lifestyle related stress.

Testing your boundaries when plunging into cold temperatures can also produce a wide smile or even a loud laugh. As you take on the cold after heating up in the sauna, you are both challenging - and winning - against your own fear!  At PAUS we witness bursts of happiness and laughter again and again. Nothing glows brighter on the faces of our guests than the happy smiles and blushing skin after conquering our cool plunge pools. Here are a few tips to help you incorporate this practice into your PAUS bathing visit and beyond:

Heat up: begin your session by warming up in a hot tub or sauna, drinking plenty of fresh, cold water. The heat helps, making the first plunge easier.

Prepare mentally: if you're new to contrasting, it is important to ease into the practice mentally. You might observe fellow bathers plunging the cool pools with ease. But, as in life, it is important not to always compare yourself with others. Remember, they may be regulars who have been practicing contrasting for months, if not years. Rest assured, their first plunge probably wasn't as seamless.

Breathe: take a moment by the cool pool and breath deeply. It will help you to relax and amplify the mindbody connection.

Enter slowly: enter the cool pool peacefully, still breathing deeply and calmly. It can also help to stay quite still, reduce too much movement as this helps to preserve the natural thermal layer your body creates.

Challenge your perception: while still standing, immerse your hands in the water, gently massaging your legs and upper body with cold water. If you find it too uncomfortable, step out and get back to the hot tub or sauna, being mindful of the sensations you feel in your legs. You might realise that instead of feeling cold and uncomfortable, the cold water is actually refreshing and soothing.

TAKE A MOMENT

Heat up, cool down: after heating up, return for a cold plunge and repeat several times until you are able to immerse up to your shoulders whilst keeping your breath calm and deep.

Repeat: stay immersed until comfortable, then return to the hot tub or a sauna.

Be present: treat each session of contrasting as an opportunity for being present in the moment. Pay attention to sensations on your skin and how your muscles feel, your heart beats, your thoughts and emotions.

Personalise your routine: some prefer morning sessions to invigorate and energise, while others may find late afternoon sessions more relaxing and conducive to better sleep. Either way, it is important to carry on at home by finishing every hot shower with increasing your time under cold water. Remember each time that you have befriended the cold …. now you can gain a full control over it.

Hydrate and nourish: during and after the session, hydrate your body and replenish with nutrientrich foods. Drinking water and consuming antioxidant rich foods (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) supports your hormone balance and the body's recovery process.

If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on a contrasting therapy practice.

Written by Alexandra Weissova Co-Founder at PAUS.

BATHE. EAT. DO. PAUS.

Immerse in our bathing space under open skies. Enjoy wood fired hot tubs, Finnish barrel saunas and cold plunge pools. Then, fill your bellies in our nourishing Hilltop Bistro.

PAUS. Toft Road, Cambridge, CB23 2TT

Thurs & Fri - 11am to 8pm

Sat & Sun - 10am to 6pm

www.paus.life

The Royal Oak

Rustic, friendly, welcoming and delicious, are just some of the superbatives that can be said about The Royal Oak in Barrington, set adjacent to the sweeping village green in this charming village.

This much loved, iconic, 14th century village pub, well known as a go-to dining destination in the area, has recently had an exciting change of ownership by local hospitality group Cambscuisine who have rejuvenated this historic country pub.

Since the beginning of the year, The Royal Oak has been a hive of activity with restoration and refurbishment, bringing it back to its former glory and beyond, so we were excited to pay it a visit.

We were greeted by a warm and welcoming team, who led us through the quintessentially English setting of low ceilings, beams, open fires and finally into the light and fresh conservatory at the rear of the pub. As you look around you can see that the furnishings have been well thought out with a classy balance of opulance and countryside chic, providing a special and comfortable environment to dine in.

The service was impeccable; knowledge of the menu, explanations and when asked, recommendations were forthcoming and well founded. Nothing was too much trouble and excellent customer service came naturally. Cambscuisine clearly take pride in delivering a high level of service to their customers and encourage feedback via an easy online form at the end of the visit, to ensure this is maintained.

something for everyone

The menu has something for everyone and there are additional specials running alongside it too. This makes for difficult choosing but, with the help of your server’s recommendations, you’ll find just the right dish.

It’s tricky to pick favourites, but certainly some highlights for us were the generous pork crackling pieces with homemade apple sauce, the  hearty Oak burger in a delicious pretzel bun and the exquisite sea trout with massaman curry sauce.

When the dessert menu was offered, we were almost certain we didn’t have room… until we saw the options that is! As well as traditional puddings such as sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownie, there were some delightfully unusual offerings such as the honey parfait with banana mousse, granola and honeycomb and a coconut rice pudding croquette served with a tropical fruit salsa and mango sorbet - simply divine!

room for dessert

All of the dishes were expertly crafted by the highly skilled kitchen team and it is just superb to see this level of care and attention going into each and every plate of food. It certainly comes through in the flavours and rounds the whole Royal Oak experience off, wonderfully.

The Royal Oak welcomes both small and large bookings, including children and dogs. Look out for the recently launched breakfast club details and follow the Cambscuisine social media pages for up to date news and announcements.

If you’re looking for somewhere new to try then do get yourself booked in here, you will not regret it and you can thank us later.

Scan

+ Ongoing Support Branding + Brand Ideation & Development + Brand

Strategy & Workshops + Logo Design + Creative Concepts and Ideation +

Copywriting & Content Creation + Corporate Literature and Brochures +

Photography + Videography + Print Production + Marketing + Brand Strategy

+ PPC + SEO Strategy + Website support + Social Media Management +

Influencer Relations + Content Creation + Email Marketing + Videography +

Photography + Website Design & Build + UX/UI + Content Strategy + Website

Maintenance + Website Hosting + Digital Services + Ongoing Support

Branding + Brand Ideation & Development + Brand Strategy & Workshops

+ Logo Design + Creative Concepts and Ideation + Copywriting & Content

Creation + Corporate Literature and Brochures + Photography + Videography

+ Print Production + Marketing + Brand Strategy + PPC + SEO Strategy

+ Website support + Social Media Management + Influencer Relations +

Content Creation + Email Marketing + Videography + Photography + Website

Design & Build + UX/UI + Information Architecture (IA) + Content Strategy

+ Website Maintenance + Website Hosting + Digital Services + Ongoing

Support Branding + Brand Ideation & Development + Brand Strategy & Workshops + Logo Design + Creative Concepts and Ideation + Copywriting & Content Creation + Corporate Literature and Brochures + Photography

+ Videography + Print Production + Marketing + Brand Strategy + PPC +

SEO Strategy + Website support + Social Media Management + Influencer

Relations + Content Creation + Email Marketing + Videography + Photography

+ Website Design & Build + UX/UI + Content Strategy + Website Maintenance

+ Website Hosting + Digital Services + Ongoing Support Branding + Brand

Ideation & Development + Brand Strategy & Workshops + Logo Design

+ Creative Concepts and Ideation + Copywriting & Content Creation +

Corporate Literature and Brochures + Photography + Videography + Print

Production + Marketing + Brand Strategy + PPC + SEO Strategy + Website support + Social Media Management + Influencer Relations + Content

Creation + Email Marketing + Videography + Photography Website Design & Build + UX/UI + Information Architecture (IA) + Content Strategy + Website

Maintenance + Digital Services + Ongoing Support Branding + Brand Ideation

Located in the centre of Melbourn, you will find our cosy home. It is rich in personality and full of big ideas. Come and pay us a visit. Then stay a while. Savour our food - take in the atmosphere - and simply feel at home with friends.

The Hideaway café is a not for profit cafe which aims to use its profits to establish programs that help some of the most vulnerable people in our community, by supporting the needs of our homeleless population, protecting children and young people who are at risk from harm, or who are at risk to themselves, and to be there for our isolated elderly. The cafe is set up on the belief that our everyday social can help to fuel social change.

The Hideaway Cafe

63 High Street

Melbourn

SG8 6DZ

hello@thehideawaycafe.co.uk

07950761909

Welcome to Cambridge Country Club

Whether you are looking to indulge in a little ‘me time’ and release the stress of everyday life, tone up, or spend some time on the golf course, you can venture to the newly refurbished Cambridge Country Club, nestled away on the outskirts of Cambridge in the village of Bourn.

The venue has been subject to a multi-million pound renovation unveiled in the Summer of 2021, boasting brand new facilities including luxury spa facilities, a stylish new bar and restaurant, retail outlets, fully equipped conference rooms and beautiful function spaces for corporate or private hire. Add this to the established 18 hole golf course, previously known as Bourn Golf Club, we set off to explore with high expectations.

As you drive down the countryside a stones throw from the hustle and bustle of city life, you are greeted with a grand entrance, modern complex, sat to the side of the rolling fairways and fresh cut grass. Having pulled up in the expansive parking, we set off to the first stop, the Wellness Centre.

Walking through the sliding glass doors, you are met with an opulent marble reception where you get an immediate sense of prestige. This venue is something very special. Starting with the highest quality decor and immaculately presented team members, where the theme of exceptional quality is one that runs throughout.

Photography by Gareth Jones Photogrpahy

Wellness

As you will know, from previous issues of STONES, we are avid fans of self care. Spending time on yourself is so important for a healthy mind and body and that ethos is certainly shared and promoted at the Cambridge Country Club.

The abundantly equipped gym offers a great workout for all levels. The fitness team is on hand to support and guide you through your own bespoke and specially designed Health & Wellness journey. You can access your personalised training plan via the Cambridge Country Club app as well as all of the information you need on the brand new Life Fitness equipment. If the gym is not your thing, or perhaps you like to vary your workouts, then you could use the purpose built spin studio, sign up to one of many classes in the exercise studio or venture down to the leisure pool with a conveniently positioned steam room and sauna for after.

After all of that activity, we were ready to head to the spa for some relaxation and well earned TLC. The ambience in the spa area is light and calm and it really is the perfect place to take a breath and unwind. You will be greeted at the reception and taken through to a charming waiting area, adorned with floral decorations and an indoor blossom tree. From there, you can take in your surroundings with a nail bar and a dedicated pedicure lounge, complete with a beautiful carousel horse! Just a short walk along the corridor will take you past a Himalayan rock salt relaxation room, with heated beds and a candle lit, cosy area with armchairs and blankets that look as though you could just happily sink into them for a little while. Just beyond these are the warm and tranquil treatment rooms where a full range of expert treatments and therapies are carried out. From first hand exeprience we can particularly advocate the shoulder, back and neck massage and Elemis facial treatments, which left us feeling rejuvenated.

Golf

With its rural location, mature trees, a meandering brook and several lakes, the award winning 18 hole, par 72 golf course at Cambridge Country Club really is a great course. It is kept to an impeccably high standard, carefully designed to offer a peaceful yet challenging game for all levels of golfers.

The pro shop has a wide range of golfing necessities and stocked with accessories, and a golf simulator to brush up on your game. The simulator offers fair-weather golfers a safe haven to practice their swing, a space for trying out new clubs and beginners a private place to get a feel for the sport before they hit the course for the first time.

The 19th Hole

Ready for a drink? We were. After a long 18 hole round you may be seeking a well deserved drink or a bite to eat. Spike’s Bar is a welcoming and informal bar and lounge where you can find just that. Open to members and non members alike, Spike’s offers a breakfast and lunch casual dining menu, which includes stone baked pizzas, salads and sandwiches all at very reasonable prices. The perfect excuse to stop by and take in the surroundings and atmosphere that the country club has to offer. In the summer months you could make the most of the breathtaking views and take your food and drinks al fresco, to one of the terrace areas.

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience then The Cotto Lounge is where you need to head to. Michelin star awarded, master chef; Hans Schweitzer and his team run all of the food and beverage offerings at Cambridge Country Club including Spike’s Bar and the renowned Cotto Lounge. They are just making some final touches to the much anticipated fine dining menu and, in the meantime, offer an exceptional Sunday lunch as well as private hire events and functions. The views from the restaurant and terrace take your gaze down the sweeping fairway and all the way to the tree line on the horizon.

Meeting & Events

We even managed to fit in a quick meeting during the visit and we were spoilt for choice with options. Boasting, not one but three, bright and modern function suites and an executive board room, Cambridge Country Club provides the perfect venue to host meetings, conferences, exhibitions, special events and weddings. The venue certainly won’t fail to impress your guests with its stunning views framed by floor to ceiling windows and can accommodate up to 300 people.

There really is something for everyone here at Cambridge Country Club, open to both members and non-members, from a round of golf, a treatment, haircut or a bite to eat, you have so many options all in one place.

Overall, the experience at Cambridge Country Club is inarguably luxurious and special, but it also has an underlying, relaxed and approachable charm that would perhaps be unexpected based on first impressions. All members of staff are professional yet friendly, with a warmth and enthusiasm that is often missed at high end venues. There is an air of lavishness and prestige, but with a grounded and welcoming feel. With membership pricing surprisingly accessible and something for everyone on site, it is no surprise that the Cambridge Country Club has been such a huge success since re-opening. STONES team highly recommend.

Top Travel Destinations for 2023

TENERIFE MAJORCA

Tenerife holidays are a big Brit hit, with the mighty Mount Teide waiting to wow and playful resorts like Playa de las Americas serving up fun in the sun all year round. The action-packed south is where much-loved resorts come alive with vibrant beaches, bar-lined strips and tax-free shops to give you that ultimate holiday feeling. And kids young and old will adore the Thai-inspired thrills at the worldfamous Siam Park waterpark. But follow the lush landscape north to explore the great outdoors and quaint colonial towns for a taste of the real Tenerife. Looking for something different? Stargazing, wine tasting and wellness retreats are all on the menu too.

When it comes to showing off every type of holiday, Majorca wins hands down. After family fun? Say hello to action-packed resorts bursting with epic waterparks and shows. Looking for luxury? How do swanky ports, VIP beach clubs and exclusive hilltop hideouts sound? Outdoorsy types have the rugged mountain peaks and lush countryside scenes of the north to get lost in, while culture vultures, shoppers and bar-hoppers have their pick of things to do in cosmopolitan Palma. As for the beaches, there are more than 200, with everything from buzzy prombacked stretches to idyllic cosy coves. Oh, and year-round sunshine? Yep, Majorca’s got that too.

TURKEY JAPAN

Holidays to Turkey are all about lazing on goldsand beaches, tucking into chargrilled kebabs, sipping cocktails at swish marinas... and much more. Yes, there are many sides to this beautiful country, as it’s the ultimate bridge between the east and west. That means you can flip between seeing ancient wonders, experiencing mesmerising coastline and exploring chic shopping malls all in one holiday to Turkey.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan, a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. As one of the top five destinations worldwide, Japan enthrals travellers with its vibrant cities, serene landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Lose yourself in the neonlit streets of Tokyo, a bustling metropolis where innovation meets tradition. Uncover the tranquil beauty of Kyoto's majestic temples and serene gardens. Immerse yourself in the graceful art of tea ceremonies and witness the mesmerizing cherry blossom season. From the awe-inspiring Mount Fuji to the timeless charm of historic villages, Japan beckons you to discover its harmonious blend of past and present.

CANADA

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canada, a top five destination that captivates travellers with its vast landscapes, pristine wilderness, and warm hospitality. From the stunning Rocky Mountains to the picturesque coastal shores, Canada offers a diverse range of natural wonders. Explore the vibrant city life of Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, where cultural diversity and culinary delights await. Immerse yourself in the serenity of Banff National Park or witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Yukon. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cosmopolitan charm, or serene tranquillity, Canada has it all. Discover the true essence of this remarkable country and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Written by Carrie Taylor Premier Travel High Street, Royston

Let's Chat.

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this extended and updated period cottage in the highly soughtafter village of Fowlmere. This property has been completed to an exceptional standard, with no expense spared, enjoying accommodation in excess of 1500sq ft, 3 reception rooms, a refitted kitchen with adjoining breakfast room, 2-3 bedrooms, a dressing room and an en-suite to master, a refitted family bathroom, an enclosed landscaped low maintenance garden, a home office outbuilding, a driveway with parking for 2 vehicles and lovely field views opposite.

This stunning property has recently been renovated to an exceptional standard, benefiting from a high spec throughout, offering open-plan living, a utility room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a study, underfloor heating on the ground floor, an enclosed southfacing landscaped garden, a single garage with driveway parking, and being within a short walking distance to local amenities and schooling.

Ensum Brown is delighted to offer for sale one of the original detached period homes on the most soughtafter private road in Royston, Heathfield, opposite the Heath. This extended property enjoys over 2000sq ft of accommodation, 3 reception rooms, a kitchen/breakfast room, a utility and boot room, 4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an enclosed garden, and a tandemlength garage with driveway parking

Chapel Cottage, Fowlmere OIEO £650,000 £850,000

Heathfield, Royston

£750,000

High St. Ashwell

01763 75 00 70 | www.ensumbrown.com | Kooky Nohmad, 42 High Street, Royston, SG8 9AG

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this stunning detached home in the popular village of Guilden Morden. This upgraded 2017 property enjoys top specification throughout, 4 year building warranty remaining, an individual design and build, over 2000sq ft accommodation, 2 reception rooms, open-plan living, 4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, excellent storage throughout, high ceilings, a deceptively spacious landscaped rear garden, and a garage, carport and additional parking. This home also benefits from an 'A' grade energy rating and benefits from air source heat pump heating, solar panels and underfloor heating on the ground floor.

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this updated and much improved detached family home in the popular village of Melbourn. This extended property enjoys a private gated entrance, 2 reception rooms, a kitchen/ breakfast room, 4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a detached double garage, an enclosed garden with good privacy, and a generous frontage with driveway parking for multiple vehicles and being triple glazed throughout.

Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this extended detached Edwardian home in the highly sought-after market town of Royston. This superbly presented property enjoys accommodation over 2500sq ft, 3 reception rooms, 3 well-proportioned double bedrooms, a master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite, a loft room, a fully tanked basement with authentic snooker/games room and workshop, an enclosed low-maintenance garden, parking for 2 vehicles to the front and a large garage to the rear.

Melbourn Rd. Royston

Spencer Drive, Melbourn

£750,000

Potton Rd. Guilden Morden £800,000 £785,000

Wander further down the High Street and you will find yourself at corner of John Street. The street was named after John Phillips, who handed this site to the town of Royston, to connect the High Street to Market Hill after one of his public houses that stood there was completely destroyed in a fire. If you take a look above Timpsons, on the corner of the junction you will notice the curved wall and windows, which are made of unusually curved panes of glass.

Adjacent to John Street, stands another listed property, currently empty, but most recently known as Barclays Bank, originally Fordham’s Bank.

Continue down to the entrance of Jepps Lane. If you stand on the High Street, with your back to Jepps Lane, look up and you will find some interesting roof and window details above the shops on the west side of High Street. The charity shop next to these is on the site of the ‘Hoops’, allegedly a haunt of the highwayman Dick Turpin. According to local storytellers and historians, he backed his horse down a well there, to avoid being captured by law enforcement officers.

18-20 High Street - This low, Tudor fronted building is believed to date from the 14th century. This makes it the oldest structure in the town after the church. Presumably it was erected after the great fire that burned down most of the town centre, three centuries before the Great Fire of London!

Wander down Jepps Lane, on your left stands the Masonic Hall, built in the 1840s to be the Sunday School of the John Street Congregational Chapel, the back wall of which used to be opposite.

AIR From

This intense science fiction horror series is set in an outdated and nightmarish town in Middle America. Everyone who enters the town is trapped and as the unwilling residents search for a way out, they are also faced with the challenge of keeping themselves out of harm’s way when terrorised by frightening nocturnal creatures, which emerge from the surrounding forest as soon as the sun goes down. The main character, Boyd (Harold Perrineau), is the sheriff in town and has an unquenchable thirst for the truth behind it all, which he has to try to balance with keeping order and some kind of normality for the ever increasing population.

From is brought to us by some of the same creative team as Lost and so it comes as no surprise that there are mysterious twists, turns and secrets throughout the episodes to keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat.

From award winning director Ben Affleck comes the underdog story of how Nike managed to aquire Micheal Jordan and create one of the most recognisable sports brands of all time. At the time, Nike may have been leading the way on the track with their running shoes, but they were still well behind Adidas and Converse on the court. That’s before salesman, Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), has a brilliant idea that could either make the company invincible or ruin the basketball division all together. With a ‘no risk, no reward’ attitude he puts all his chips on red (and black) in an unknown, soon to be superstar. Now one of the greatest NBA players of all time and one of the most regonisable logos in the world. This is the story of how it came to be and nearly never was.

PRIME / 2023 / 15 / 21H 54M MGM+

Return of the Dream Canteen

Red Hot Chili Peppers

This is Why Paramore

REVOLUTION RECORDS RECOMMEND

A lot has changed in the time Paramore have been away. It’s been five years since their most recent album, their last live show was in 2018, and the legacy of the ‘00s poppunk explosion has been reconsidered, with the band finally given the respect they’ve always deserved; a revival on TikTok has seen their music exposed to a new, furious generation. This new chapter is also the first since 2007’s breakout album ‘Riot!’ that hasn’t come with a line-up change and the press-led drama that’s always followed.

In the most recent release by the Californian band they really have gone back to where they belong. After reuniting with long time guitarist John Frusciante on their previous album ‘Unlimited Love’, released earlier last year, they have found their unmistakable and unhinged sound. With a proper mix of funk, soul, hip-hop and rock this album has it all. There are no real stand out songs or singles on this album, but that doesn’t matter, it certainly doesn’t distract from the overall listening experience. With John’s wailing guitar licks, Flea’s funk heavy bass, Chad’s rhythmic beats and the unique sound of Anthony on vocals, this is a fantastic album from start to finish.

Like fellow emo outsiders My Chemical Romance, Paramore are returning bigger than ever, but comeback single ‘This Is Why’ – taken from their new album of the same name, released in February – is a firm statement of purpose that does away with compromise.

Opening with a playful guitar line and rumbling drums that dance throughout the track (and echoes Wolf Alice's ‘Giant Peach’), there are nods to the ‘80s new wave that drove 2017’s 'After Laughter'. More than a continuation of what’s come before though, there’s a newfound urgency to the party-starting music that takes influence from their angsty days as scrappy pop-punkers. Paramore have praised Bloc Party and Foals recently and there’s a similar disco-stomp driving ‘This Is Why’.

ALTERNATIVE / 2023 / 10 TRACKS / 36MINS

ALTERNATIVE / 2022 / 17 TRACKS / 1HOUR 15MINS

Josh Murphy

Sophie Murphy

Steve Eggs

Jenna Johnson

Aniello Fruncillo

GET INVOLVED

At STONES, we are inspired to be part of the bigger picture. The way we all do business has shifted over the last couple of years and it’s more important than ever for us to support each other. We are starting here, with our lifestyle magazine; designed to draw readers to all of the finer things in our area. No matter what it is you have to offer the community, whether it be big or small, you could be a part of STONES. Be a part of the conversation, part of the journey. Get in touch with our STONES team today to find out more.