As the days shorten and the air grows more crisp, this month is all about embracing the beginning of the festive season. Berkhamsted starts to fizz with magic in November, starting with the Rotary Club’s much-loved fireworks display on the 2nd of November. The annual Festival of Lights, on November 24th, will illuminate our streets, and from the 21st of November you can wrap up warm and enjoy the much-loved tradition of our local shop windows transformed with beautiful themed Christmas displays.
We’re incredibly fortunate to have such a wonderful array of independent shops and businesses in Berkhamsted, each brimming with unique gifts and inspiration. Whether you’re searching for something special or simply soaking up the atmosphere, our high street offers a little something for everyone. We invite you to make the very best of what our town has to offer with our handy guide.
Let’s celebrate the season together!
WHAT’S ON IN NOVEMBER
Your essential monthly guide to events large and small in and around Berkhamsted
4
COVER STAR
Italian deli Mercurio’s shares its story of passion for traditional flavours and quality
10
BOOK FESTIVAL
The fifth annual book festival celebrates literature, creativity, and inspiring authors
16
FURTHER AFIELD
Fancy a day out?
The best events and festivals within an hour of home
30
NOTES FROM A FLOWER GROWER
Local flower grower
Julie Woodford shares seasonal gardening tips
If you’d like to promote your business or share an event in an upcoming issue, drop us a line at info@theguideberkhamsted.co.uk
Published by: Adam Game & Annabelle Maguire
Editor: Adam Game
Features Editor & Writer: Amy Rose Everett
Design: www.mattstraker.com
Advertising: Annabelle Maguire
Contributors: Hannah Alderson, Ben Colvill, Julie Woodford
Printed in Berkhamsted, using vegetable-based inks on eco-friendly, FSC® certified paper
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10 things to do this month
NOVEMBER 2
BERKHAMSTED FIREWORKS DISPLAY
A spectacular 20-minute fireworks show is brought to you by Berkhamsted Rotary Club. Enjoy a dazzling display linked to music, lighting, and lasers. The event, supported by local schools and community groups, includes a barbecue and bar – arrive early to soak up the atmosphere! Free parking is available at Lower Kings Road Multi-Storey from 4pm. Discounted tickets are available at Berkhamsted market.
Tickets on the door:
Adult £12, Child £8, Family £30 Gates open 6pm, display begins 7pm Berkhamsted Cricket Club, Castle Hill Berkhamsted HP4 1HE
BOOK: Berkobang.org
NOVEMBER 3
ROCK CHORUS TURNS 15
Coming together to celebrate their 15th anniversary at Berkhamsted School, the mixed voices of the five Rock Chorus Choirs are set to share their rich and varied repertoire of fantastic rock and pop songs. Rock Chorus Kids will kick off the evening with a lively performance led by their fantastic leader, India.
Adult £15, Children under 12 £5
Doors open at 7pm, show begins 7.30pm Kings Campus, Berkhamsted School, Kings Road Berkhamsted HP4 3BG
BOOK: Eventsatberkhamsted.ticketsolve.com
NOVEMBER 4, 11, 18, 25
HER RUN CLUB
Kickstart your week with Her Run Club, a supportive and empowering running group for women of all fitness levels. Join us every Monday at 7pm for a fun, community-focused run through the town. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out,
this is the perfect way to stay active and connect with like-minded women running for clear minds and increased stamina.
Free entry
Monday at 7pm and Friday at 7am 225 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1AD
INFO: Herfitness.uk
NOVEMBER 4, 18, & 25
BUBBLES AND BAUBLES
Back by popular demand! Join Open Door’s sell-out Christmas class, Bubbles and Baubles, on Mondays in November
(4th, 18th, 25th) from 7-8.30pm. Create your perfect festive bauble while enjoying a glass of fizz and a mince pie in the cosy pottery studio. Your bauble will be ready to collect in time to take pride of place on the tree. Suitable for over 18s only. Book early, as spaces fill up fast! Don’t forget your ID, and an apron.
£20 7pm - 8.30pm
The Studio: pottery + creative arts, Park Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1HU
BOOK: Bookwhen.com/opendoor
NOVEMBER 8, 9 & 10
BERKHAMSTED ART SOCIETY
WINTER EXHIBITION
Head to the Civic Centre for a three-day exhibition and sale of local artists’ works, including pictures, ceramics, glassware, and greeting cards. Held from 8th to 10th November, you can drop in throughout the day - the perfect place to stock up on inventive Christmas presents. Schoolchildren’s visits are on Friday, followed by a private view from 6.30 - 8pm with wine and nibbles for family, friends, and invited guests.
Free
Civic Centre, 161 High Street
Berkhamsted HP4 3HD
INFO: Berkhamstedartsociety.co.uk
NOVEMBER 9
BACK TO THE FUTURE:
NEOCLASSICAL PIANO
NOVEMBER 21 & 28
LATE NIGHT SHOPPING
REFLECTIONS s
A neoclassical piano concert featuring Yaroslav Oliinyk, an acclaimed young composer and pianist from Ukraine. Yaroslav will showcase his original piano compositions and reimagined versions of famous music across various genres, merging the past and the future. Take a moment to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and embrace the beauty of the present moment through this beautiful music. Tickets available online and on the door.
Embrace the festive spirit with late-night shopping in Berkhamsted! Discover local gems at a relaxed pace, exploring Cook & Butler’s exquisite antiques and hard-to-find home accessories, or &Quirky’s collection of hilarious gifts and unique items to add character to your home. Don’t miss the chance to visit The Berkhamsted Bookshop after dark, for a literary find, or stop by Amelie, for a stylish addition to your wardrobe. Take advantage of this opportunity to shop after work on the last two Thursdays in November (and every Thursday in December). Enjoy a leisurely evening while supporting local businesses and finding the perfect treasures for your loved ones - we’ll see you there!
Until 7pm
Every Thursday in December until Christmas High Street & Lower Kings Road
NOVEMBER 24
BERKHAMSTED FESTIVAL OF LIGHT
Celebrate the magic of Christmas at the Festival of Light. Meet the community on Berkhamsted High Street from 1pm-7pm for a festive day, with lots of local musicians
and fairground rides creating a lovely atmosphere. Santa’s Elves Posting House in the Civic Centre is a joy to explore, and you’ll catch the enchanting Christmas light switch-on at 5pm. Don’t miss the judging of the best-dressed shop window displays, and most importantly, a special appearance from Santa himself.
Free
Berkhamsted High Street, HP4 3AP
NOVEMBER 29
ASHRIDGE HOUSE ILLUMINATED s
Experience the magic of Ashridge House Illuminated, the Christmas light trail that marks the start of the festive season. Wander through the stunning Grade II* listed gardens, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights and new installations that will captivate the whole family. Explore the extended light trail and indulge in mulled wine, gourmet burgers, or sweet churros at the food village. It’s the perfect way to soak up some seasonal cheer in a breathtaking setting. Wednesday and Thursday evenings
are dog-friendly. Wheelchair accessible. Parking available on site.
Open daily Monday - Sunday
First entry: 4pm Last entry: 7.30pm Ashridge House, Berkhamsted HP4 1NS
BOOK: Ashridgehouse.org.uk
NOVEMBER 24
SHOP CHRISTMAS WINDOWS
During the Berkhamsted Festival of Light, the town’s festive spirit shines bright - but nowhere more so than the winner of the annual ‘best dressed’ Christmas shop window competition. Wrap up warm and check out the endless creativity of shop owners in the town, entertaining with beautiful scenes that spring up in their window displays throughout the month. The charming yearly tradition is sponsored by the Berkhamsted Citizens Association (BCA), championing sustainability and unique, in-house design. Judging takes place on Thursday 21st November and prizes will be presented at 5pm at the Festival of Light.
Inside Mercurio’s, Berkhamsted's Artisan
Italian Deli
Italy’s rich tapestry of regional influences and stellar ingredients couldn’t hope to be reduced to one dish, or indeed, one visit. With a focus on community, Mercurio’s is a place where hobby cooks and curious shoppers come to deepen their exploration of Italian cuisine – and culture.
PHOTOS BY SIOBHAN DORAN
Walking through Mercurio’s door feels like stepping into a little Florentine café. Delicious smells, wonderful music, the clatter of crockery; one instantly feels that rather pleasant sensory overload that's unique to Italy. "I've seen Italians walk past, and do a double take. They'll come into the shop and say that it feels like home," shares owner Paola.
Italians (and Italophiles) are delighted to find an impressive array of high-quality, hard-to-source Italian products suddenly at their fingertips, the likes of which you can't find at even the highest quality supermarkets.
"We are very particular about what we stock,” Paola shares, gesturing to shelves heaving with pasta and chocolates in
beautiful traditional packaging. An impressive Vitrina houses a selection of fillings ideal for Paola’s freshly-baked panini.
The deli boasts an impressive selection of "niche and specific" meats sliced to order, and countless cheeses, including six varieties of Pecorino. Speciality cured meats include Guanciale, the pork cheek key to making an authentic carbonara.
Customers can browse at leisure whilst enjoying a cup of excellent coffee and a bite to eat. Since opening in November 2023, the little deli has become increasingly popular, with demand for cookery workshops and private events soaring. Some swift rearrangements convert the space into a classroom, dining room or just a cosy spot for drinks and nibbles.
A TRUE TASTE OF ITALY
Paola, an experienced chef, and her husband Raffaele are committed to authenticity. Raffaele hails from Southern Italy, contributing over 50 years of experience in the food industry, whilst Paola's family are typical Romans; you can taste this influence in the pizza, bread and cakes she bakes daily, upstairs.
Many of the products come direct from the producers, particularly prosciutto, flour, pulses and wine as provenance is extremely important at Mercurio’s. The couple have made many friends with farmers during their travels across Italy over the decades.
“We are always delighted to offer guidance on how much product to use, share recipe tips, and explain the history of each item,” Paola explains. “It’s about more than just selling; it’s about educating our
customers and having fun.”
Paola is particularly excited about stocking hard-to-find items like resurrected 1970s chocolates, Pocket Coffee and Mon Chéri, which have been extremely popular in the last year. “We also stock amazing wines from exclusive vineyards that you simply won’t find anywhere else,” she says, emphasising their long-standing relationships with producers like Marchesi di Cordano and Loreto Aprutino.
Community Connections
“What I love most is the diversity of what I do each day,” says Paola. “From explaining products to customers to preparing food and finding new suppliers, it’s an everevolving journey.”
With a focus on community, Mercurio’s creates a welcoming environment where locals can explore the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine. “People come back again and again, not just for the products but for the experience of recreating their Italian holiday memories at home.”
As the festive season approaches, Mercurio's will host late-night shopping and tasting events every Thursday in November.
“Customers can pre-order cheese and meat boards, perfect for the holidays” Paola says.
“Pop in to shop for unique presents at a discount. Don’t miss our special Dolce & Gabbana tins of panettone, which flew off the shelves last year."
Paola’s commitment to quality extends beyond products; she offers pasta and bread-making classes, allowing customers to connect with the joy of Italian cooking. “I want people to taste products that are not mass-produced and embrace the difference” she explains.
“They can learn how to make traditional bread dough or pasta from scratch, or just pop in to have a chat, and taste some wine.
“It’s all about sharing our love for traditional and regional Italian food, helping people recreate that
“I've seen Italians walk past, and do a double take. They'll come into the shop and say that it feels like home.”
experience with and for their families.”
With its clever curation of timeless classics, Mercurio’s is the past, present and future of Italian food. Drop in for a chat, some inspiration, or a basket full of products that'll make your recipes sing.
Mercurio’s
Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm Sundays 10am - 4pm
208 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1AG
@mercuriosgastronomia
Mercurios.co.uk
10 FAVOURITE PRODUCTS
Mozzarella di bufala, stracciatella and fior di latte, Campania
Small batch, artisan cheese flown in from Raff's native town Santa Maria Capua Vetere, once a week. “When it’s gone, it’s gone!”
Olives, Sicilan origin
Hand-mixed for a unique taste that’s hard to beat.
Guanciale, Umbria
For making a properly authentic carbonara. Sourced with care and expertise.
Pici pasta, Granoro
Crafted by artisan producers in Naples, ideal for various dishes.
Wines, Cordano Abruzzo
Award-winning, exclusive collection to Mercurio's with a story of passion and provenance from their chosen vineyard on the Adriatic coast.
Tomato passata, Molisana
Made traditionally during harvest season, capturing the true essence of Italian tomatoes.
Artisan bread
Made by Paola with traditional Italian flour and fermented for 72 hours, making the perfect bubbly dough.
Honey, Piedmont
Seasonal and raw, this honey captures the flavours of wildflowers from the Italian Alpine region.
Italian sea salt, Margherita di Savoia
Sale Marino Dell Adriatico, harvested from the Adriatic coastal region. Ideal for enhancing the flavours of dishes.
Truffle Oil, Umbria, Azienda Agricola Gubbio
A luxurious finishing touch, sourced from friends with farms (and truffle-finding dogs) in the renowned truffle regions of Italy.
Comfort reading
Hibernation mode is in full swing, and save for getting wrapped up to catch the fireworks, you’ll find us on the sofa with a glass of red for the foreseeable. Here’s The Berkhamsted Bookshop’s choice of cosy reads to pick you up on darker days, promising everything from practical tips on how to work with naturally lower energy levels to scintillating spy stories that’ll keep you turning pages until the sun (eventually) comes up.
SELF-CARE FOR WINTER
SUZY READING
£16.99
Are you feeling it too? A growing need for rest, a deep desire to seek comfort? As the days become shorter and the cold descends, hibernation mode sets in. Berkhamsted resident and chartered psychologist Suzy Reading explains how best to approach seasonal change, devising seven steps to not only survive the winter months but to thrive in them. By embracing the lessons from the natural world - from regulating light activity to warming body movements - you will learn how to alter your daily rhythms so that you can embrace winter. Through honouring lower energy levels and listening to what your body needs in the colder months, find your opportunity to rekindle joy and find fulfilment in every season of life.
Enjoy 10% off all books featured in this issue at The Berkhamsted Bookshop by mentioning The Guide at time of purchase.
SAVE 10%
CONE OF SHAME
WINNIE AU
£20.00
Photographer Winnie Au inverts the comical image of pooches post-vet, in this playful ‘cone of shame’ photo collection. Meet Ryder the Old English Sheepdog with his head in a cloud, and Andele the Lakeland Terrier in a moss-covered Elizabethan collar.
THE FORAGER’S ALMANAC
DANIELLE GALLACHER
£16.99
Reconnect with nature in this month-by-month foraging almanac. Brimming with photographs and useful tips, you’ll find inspiration for wildcrafting and delicious recipes alike.
THE SIEGE
BEN MACINTYRE
£25.00
In April 1980, six gunmen took 26 hostages into London’s Iranian embassy. Ben Macintyre depicts the week-long siege and rescue mission in an incredibly powerful style.
THERE ARE RIVERS IN THE SKY
ELIF SHAFAK
£18.99
Three lives, two great rivers and one lost poem – all connected by a single drop of water. This is the bestselling author of The Island of Missing Trees at her best.
STILL WATERS & WILD WAVES
ANGELA HARDING
£25.00
Angela Harding dazzles with her latest collection of prints and photography. Inspired by babbling brooks, cascading rivers and awe-inspiring seascapes, Harding captures the beauty of water and the creatures that call it home.
JOE LYCETT’S ART HOLE
JOE LYCETT
£35.00
Make way for British comedy legend Joe Lycett’s jam-packed tome of side-splitting portraits and prose. See the likes of Harry Styles, Robert Peston, and Elaine Paige in a whole new light.
THE GLASSMAKER TRACY CHEVALIER
£20.00
Venice, 1486. Maestros spend their lives honing their craft with glass; glass that Orsola knows women aren’t meant to handle. To save her family from scandal she will work in secret, paving the way for a century-spanning saga.
GABRIEL’S MOON WILLIAM BOYD
£20.00
From one of our greatest literary voices comes the intoxicating tale of an accidental spy. Masterfully crafted in the most intricate detail, Boyd has gifted us a riotous and page-turning novel following a young man haunted by the memories of a tragedy.
BerkoFest Book Festival
Ever looked up at the sky at night, and wondered what you might be looking at? Want some advice on how to start a band? Curious about what it’s really like to join the comedy circuit? Experts like astrologist Chris Lintott, guitarist Jakko Jakszyk and comedian Paul Sinha are stopping by Berkhamsted to share their experiences.
Back for its fifth year , the BerkoFest Book Festival takes place on Sunday, November 3rd, at Berkhamsted Town Hall. An exciting mix of internationally acclaimed names from a variety of backgrounds will descend upon our market town; expect Sunday Times top-selling fiction and non-fiction writers, musicians, comedians, and even scientists, many of whom have earned prestigious awards in their fields.
A highlight will surely be the panel of scientists hosting an entertaining debate, to set your brain whirring. You’ll hear fascinating stories and insights across a busy programme of author talks, readings, and Q&A sessions.
Hosted by comedian Robin Ince and food and drink broadcaster Nigel Barden, you can guarantee there’ll be a lively atmosphere throughout the day. With a variety of events scheduled, including informative panels and book signings, there’s something to inspire everyone.
Tickets are available as all-day passes only, with advanced bookings priced at £25. Tickets on the door are £30, subject to availability. The festival runs from 10am to 7pm.
Berkhamsted Town Hall 196 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 3AP
BOOK: Bookfestival.berkofest.com
MEET SOME OF THE AUTHORS FROM THIS YEAR'S LINE UP
Come along for a tête-àtête with comedian Paul Sinha, opposite (AKA ‘The Sinnerman’ from Chase).
Helen Lederer, below, who played Catriona in Absolutely Fabulous, takes us through her ‘alarmingly honest’ first memoir.
England’s greatest cricket captain Mike Brearley discusses Turning Over Pebbles, his long-awaited ‘memoir of the mind’.
Pick the brain of author, actor and television writer Charlie Higson, above right. His Young Bond series
has now sold over a million copies in the UK.
Got a big question about space? Save it for Chris Lintott, an author and broadcaster for the BBC’s long-running Sky at Night program.
Sunday Times Number One novelist Dr Adele Parks talks all things literature.
Warm up, wind down
There’s nothing like setting your bag down after a long, wintry day, ready to cosy up with a soft new blanket and a mug of something warm by the fireside. Don’t have a fireplace? Dim the lights, light some candles and cast a pretty glow across your living space with Netflix's 'Fireplace For Your Home' (it even crackles).
1. Vintage galvanised basket Cook & Butler, £38
2. Black and white gingham throw &Quirky, £23
3. Spanish chilli hot chocolate Cook & Butler, £7.50
4. L'objet 'Bois Vert' candle Tobias Oliver Interiors, £165
5. Hardwood logs Woods Garden Centre, from £15
6. Mojave glaze oatmeal mug Shop for Good, £9.95
7. Fireside companion set VAH, £55.98
8. Dustpan & brush set Cook & Butler, £68
What’s on
Monday 4
Berkhamsted Film Society: Pretty Red Dress (film) Civic Centre 8pm- 10pm, £7 (non-members)
Tuesday 5
Berkhamsted Film Society: Pretty Red Dress (film) Civic Centre 8pm- 10pm, £7 (non-members)
November
Monday 18
Berkhamsted Film Society: All That Breathes (film)
Civic Centre 8pm- 10pm, £7 (non-members)
Tuesday 19
Berkhamsted Film Society: All That Breathes (film)
Civic Centre 8pm- 10pm, £7 (non-members)
Wednesday 13
Monthly Tea Dance
Berkhamsted Town Hall
1.30pm - 4pm
Festive Creative Workshop: Felt decorations
The Old Mill 7.30pm - 9.30pm, £40
Wednesday 20
Pop-Up Bazaar Civic Centre 10am - 2pm, free
Festive Creative Workshop: Painted ornaments
The Old Mill 7.30pm - 9.30pm, £40
Wednesday 27
Festive Creative Workshop: Felt decorations
The Old Mill 7.30pm - 9.30pm, £40
Thursday 7
Open Door: Christmas Plate Painting
The Studio: Pottery + Creative Arts 7pm - 8:30pm, £15
Thursday 14
Talk: Houses that Sugar Built The Court House 8pm, Free
Events listed in The Guide may change or contain errors. Please confirm all details with organisers before attending, The Guide and it’s publishers are not liable for any inaccuracies or changes.
Friday 1
Glaze Time: Pottery Painting DJ’s Play Zone 10am - 12pm
Live Music: Ellis & Green
Mad Squirrel 7pm - 10.30pm
Thursday 21
Late Night Shopping High Street & Lower Kings Road Until 7pm
Friday 8
Berkhamsted Art Society: Winter Exhibition Civic Centre 9am - 6pm, free
Life Drawing Town Hall 10.30am - 12pm, £15
Hospice of St. Francis: The Sapphire Ball Ashridge House 6pm, £99
Friday 22
Live Music: Maddy & Tom Mad Squirrel 7pm - 10.30pm
DENS: Sponsored Sleepout Lockers Park School From 9pm
Berkhamsted Art Society: Winter Exhibition Civic Centre 10am - 6pm, free
Little Gaddesden One Day Art Sale
Little Gaddesden Village Hall 10.30am - 4pm
Neoclassical Piano Concert: Back to the Future
St Peter’s Church 7pm, £12
Saturday 16
Chiltern Ride: Winter 50k Berkhamsted Cricket Club 8am, £70
Berkhamsted Music: Ensemble Mirage Civic Centre 7.30pm, £20
Mr Cornelius & Soul Train Centenary Theatre 7.30pm, £29 adults, £18 children
Saturday 23
Tin Giants Vyne Theatre 7.30pm, £16.50
Berkhamsted Jazz: Quintet-a-tete Civic Centre
8pm - 10.30pm, £6 - £20
Bridgewater Sinfonia: Stenhammer Piano Concert no.2 Centenary Theatre, 7.30pm, £20
Sunday 3
Berkhamsted Antiques & Vintage Market
High Street & Civic Centre 9.30am - 3.30pm, free
Berkofest: Book Festival
Berkhamsted Town Hall 9.30am - 7pm
EcoHub
Quaker Meeting House 2.30pm - 5pm
Thursday 28
Late Night Shopping High Street & Lower Kings Road Until 7pm
Hanako: Christmas Wreath Workshop
Red Lodge, Ashridge House 1pm, 7pm, £87.50
Friday 29
Glaze Time: Pottery Painting DJ’s Play Zone, 10am - 11.30am
Live Music: Chris Hargrave & John Clair
Mad Squirrel, 7pm - 10pm
The ELO Encounter Civic Centre, 7.30pm, £22
Hanako: Christmas Wreath Workshop
Red Lodge, Ashridge House 1pm, 7pm, £87.50
Saturday 30
Hanako: Christmas Wreath Workshop Red Lodge, Ashridge House 11am, £87.50
Sunday 10
Remembrance Sunday Gravel and MTB Ride Lovelo, 167 High Street 9am - 1pm, £20
Berkhamsted Art Society: Winter Exhibition Civic Centre 10am - 4pm, free
Remembrance Sunday: Annual Berkhamsted Parade High Street & St. Peter’s Church From 2.45pm
Sunday 17
Berkhamsted Farmer’s Market High Street 10am - 2pm
Berkhamsted Festival of Light High Street 3pm - 6pm 4 2 1
National Hiking Day: Chiltern Hills + Ashridge Hike & Pub Stop Tring Station 10.30am - 6pm, from £10
West End Musical: Kiss Me Kate (film) Vyne Theatre 2pm, £17.50
Sunday 24
Pleased to greet you
We can hardly believe we’re saying this, but yes, Christmas is on the way. Berkhamsted’s gift shops are stacked with extraordinary card designs, so get ahead this year with our pick of the best. From whimsical images depicting beloved local venues, to intricate laser cut designs, there’s a plethora of prints to choose from.
The Berkhamsted Bookshop £3.55
1. Joyeux Noel card Cook & Butler, £3.50
2. Poinsettia 3D card &Quirky, £3.50
3. Winter feast 3D card Shop for Good, £4.50
4. Ice skaters card Cook & Butler, £3.50
5. Christmas door card Vinegar Hill, £3.25
6. Rex in the snow card The Berkhamsted Bookshop £3.99
7. Joy To The World card &Quirky, £3
8. Silver Stag lasercut card
Greener future for Berko
Berkhamsted is stepping up its commitment to sustainability through various community initiatives. Let’s reduce waste and get to know our neighbours! Here are the names you need to know…
OPEN DOOR COMMUNITY FRIDGE
A small but mighty team of volunteers collect perishable food waste from local businesses around Berkhamsted, stocking a community fridge available to everyone. Visitors are encouraged to take what they need, encouraging a culture of sharing and helping others. No booking is required, but food bags need to be brought along (or can be purchased for £2). Support the cause by donating food, or your time; Open Door is actively looking for people to prepare, weigh and distribute food on Tuesday mornings.
Open 10am - 12am, every Tuesday 360-364 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1HU
Opendoorberkhamsted.co.uk
OPEN DOOR REPAIR CAFÉ
Broken items that might otherwise have been discarded get a new lease of life thanks to this brilliant initiative. Operating on the principle that ‘fixing is better than
throwing away’, Berkhamsted’s Repair Café gives broken electronics, old toys and torn clothing a second chance. Volunteers with specific expertise in crafts and mending can share their skills (if that’s you, this is your sign to get involved!). This is a fantastic opportunity to meet your neighbours while reducing landfill waste. Throw it away? No way…
9.30am - 12.30pm, first Saturday of the month 360-364 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1HU
Opendoorberkhamsted.co.uk/repair-cafe
ECOBERKO
EcoBerko is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation in Berkhamsted all about sustainability and community resilience. Their projects range from installing solar panels at Ashlyns School to organising community litter picks and supporting local wildlife. They’ve played a key role in greening local festivals and running creative eco-friendly activities for children. EcoBerko also raises awareness about climate change and biodiversity through events, partnerships, and educational initiatives. Donations support their ongoing projects and mission, or you can head to the monthly AGM and social event. Come and contribute your own ideas to decarbonise Berkhamsted!
Ecoberko.uk
Fresh, ethical, local
As the festive season approaches, the quest for the perfect bird often leads to the question of sourcing high-quality, ethically raised turkeys. Several trusted local suppliers offer pre-order options, ensuring that your turkey is not only fresh but also supports local farms and sustainable practices. Here are our favourites.
EASTWOODS OF BERKHAMSTED
Delivering sustainable, high quality produce since 1920, Eastwoods’ focus is on sustainable meat produce that supports UK farming. The winner of numerous awards, including ‘Best Butcher Shop in Britain’, the team work hard to uphold the same values the business started out with over 100 years ago – they only provide produce that is completely free range or wild. Last year their click & collect Christmas site offered everything and anything one might need, including free range bronze turkeys of various weights that could be boned, rolled and stuffed.
At St Margarets Turkeys, the focus is on rearing high-quality, free-range turkeys for your Christmas table. The turkeys arrive
at 3-4 weeks of age in early August and are reared in a warm, cosy barn with fresh straw produced on the farm. They are fed a nutritious diet, including grains and leafy greens. Once they have settled in and developed fuller plumage, they enjoy access to grassy enclosures during the day to graze and exercise their natural instincts. At night, they are housed in the barn with perches for roosting.
Welfare is of utmost importance; all turkeys are processed on the farm and handplucked, ensuring a superior product for your festive feast. Available from 4kg to 10+kg.
St Margarets Farm, Great Gaddesden 07891 305 578 Stmargaretsfarm.co.uk
HANROX FREE RANGE TURKEYS
Hanrox Free Range Turkeys prides itself on being Hertfordshire’s finest, specialising in free-range, oven-ready bronze and white
turkeys for Christmas. With a commitment to high animal welfare standards, the turkeys are reared in open barns and large grass paddocks, fed naturally on maize, corn, and barley. Due to their popularity, turkeys are available only on a pre-order basis and must be collected on the specified date. In addition to turkeys, you can also order gammon, sausages, sausage meat, and cranberry sauce.
Near St Albans 07932 041 091 Hanroxturkeys.co.uk
WATERGATE FARM
Watergate Farm is renowned for its extra-special free-range turkeys, providing a unique selection for your Christmas feast. With a user-friendly Turkey Chooser tool, customers can easily determine the perfect size joint to order, whether it’s a whole bird, turkey crown,
or turkey breast. Plus, enjoy 10% off all turkeys with the code WATERGATE100 at checkout.
Near Leighton Buzzard 01525 450 140 Watergatefarmturkeys.com
FOR THE TRIMMINGS: CHEYNEY’S
Nestled on a 300-acre arable farm within the beautiful Ashridge estate, Cheyney’s employs regenerative agriculture principles that prioritise soil health and biodiversity. With a flock of free-range hens, rare breed White Park cattle, and a no-dig market garden, Cheyney’s champions local food production and waste reduction, ensuring you have everything for a delicious, eco-friendly Christmas dinner. Subscribe to a weekly, or one-off, veg box, and free range eggs, delivered directly to your door.
Hill Farm, Northchurch Common Cheyneys.com
Toasting tradition
On 21st November, a young red wine is released at exactly 12:01am in Beaujolais, France. Local food and wine writer Ben Colvill celebrates Beaujolais Nouveau Day.
Fireworks, music and feasts: on the third Thursday in November, the normally sober wine world gets a little giddy. Grapes hanging on the vine just weeks previously are hastily squeezed into bottles, and shipped to fans around the world. At best, it’s the perfect drop for the pre-party-season party season. At worst, you might liken it to fruit cordial.
Beaujolais Nouveau and the (usually superior) Beaujolais Villages Nouveau offer a final glass of summer sunshine before it’s all oak-aged Malbecs by the fireside. Soft and approachable, you can expect red-berry aromas, kirsch-like cherry and sometimes banana or bubblegum notes.
But Nouveau is only half the story. The region also makes serious, age-worthy wines, particularly in the 10 Beaujolais crus – prestigious wine-producing areas like Fleurie, Morgon and Brouilly. These wines are excellent-value alternatives to neighbouring Burgundy and the Rhône.
WHERE TO BUY BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU
Berkhamsted’s lovely wine folk are working hard to bring you the good stuff after its release on 21st November.
Grape Expectations will stock Cave de Fleurie’s Nouveau (excellent last year). Find a classic Pardon et Fils at Majestic. Look out for a classy Château de Belleverne Village at Platform Wines.
BOUTINOT, LA MADONE, LA REINE DE L’ARENITE 2023, FLEURIE
£16.40, PLATFORM WINES
A fine example of old-vine Fleurie. An elegant, floral red that won’t overpower the Sunday roast.
LOUIS JADOT, COMBE AUX JACQUES 2023, BEAUJOLAIS VILLAGES
£14, TESCO
An impeccably sourced red from one of the oldest of the region’s producers. Widely available and perfect for a weekday supper. Waitrose has Jadot’s named Village ‘Beaujolais-Quincié’, a nose ahead in price and provenance. (£14.99).
CHÂTEAU DE PIZAY 2022, MORGON
£15.99, MAJESTIC
Deeper-fruited, fuller-bodied: brambles with a hint of cocoa-tinged spice. I’ve earmarked this for Christmas – complex enough to feel special, sufficient acidity to cut through the richness.
PARDON ET FILS
2023, BROUILLY
£14.99, WAITROSE
Brouilly’s sunnier climes make rounder reds. Still light enough for drinks and nibbles with friends (good ones, mind).
A little Chardonnay grows in Beaujolais, too. Unoaked, packed with lemony stone fruit and savoury notes. A serious, flinty white that works well with roasted butternut squash risotto.
If you’re travelling further afield, Aldi has some very good wines: their Fleurie is a winner at £9.99.
My tip? Pop a bottle in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. Just enough time to air an accompanying Brie, or hunk of Gruyère (a bowl of Wotsits in front of Strictly is fine, too).
Find full tasting notes and more at Bencolvill.com and @bencolvillwrites
Further afield These events in November are all within an hour of home.
1ST NOVEMBER
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM TRING:
MUSEUM BY TORCHLIGHT
Halloween’s not quite over at Tring. Did you know that their Natural History Museum was built in 1889 to house the incredible collections of Walter Rothschild, an eccentric and keen zoologist? On Friday 1st November, the whole family can don their best spooky costumes, grab a torch, and explore the dark galleries stuffed with treasures and hidden creatures. Participate in the spooky trail challenge for just £1, make your own eerie animal to take home, and get hands-on with some very special specimens. This family-friendly event is suitable for ages 5 and up. Pre-booking is essential.
Free entry, Trail challenge £1 5pm - 8pm
Natural History Museum at Tring
The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street Tring HP23 6AP
BOOK: Nhm.ac.uk
14-17 NOVEMBER
PETERLEY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Set on a 40-acre family-run farm in the Chiltern Hills, Peterley Manor Farm’s Christmas Market is back, offering a festive experience filled with charm and magic. Held in the farm's greenhouses, the market boasts over 70 hand-picked stalls, showcasing artisan goods such as jewellery, home interiors, candles, clothing, and crafts. Visitors can explore the food and drink experience barn, sample delicious street food, and enjoy live performances from local talent in the music tent, all while being warmed by
fire pits. Pre-booked parking is available, plus shuttle buses will run throughout the day to car parks outside the venue.
NOVEMBER WADDESDON MANOR CHRISTMAS GROUNDS AND HOUSE
Kickstart Christmas by exploring Rothschild house and gardens Waddesdon Manor, beautifully decorated from 15th November. Christmas grounds admission (with free parking) is £26 for adults and £12 for children, which gives you access to the illuminated gardens and Christmas fair. Festive add-ons can make an entire day out of your visit; add House admission and you’ll be able to follow a route though the East Wing of the house, with sumptuous decorations inspired by Sleeping Beauty. Afternoon tea or a wine cellar tour can be tacked on to Grounds admission at an extra cost. Go all out with the five-course festive feast (£165), served with sumptuous wine pairings at the Manor Restaurant.
Waddesdon, Aylesbury HP18 0JH
BOOK: Tickets.waddesdon.org.uk
November in the garden
As autumn shifts to winter, protect tender plants, prepare the greenhouse, and enjoy November’s blooms.
GETTING ORGANISED
November marks the true transition from autumn to winter, as temperatures drop, the hours of daylight lessen and the air becomes damp. This month is about protecting flowering plants. You’ll start mulching (covering topsoil with plant material), and bringing tender plants indoors, into the greenhouse or undercover into the cold frame, garden shed or window sill.
My greenhouse in winter is a place to wrap up warm, stay dry and enjoy the occasional bright sunny day in peace and quiet. Inside are pelargoniums, tender perennials and lots of autumn sown seedlings of nigella, ammi, scabiosa, corncockle and sweet peas to nurture and pot on.
Keep plants on the dry side and only water in moderation throughout the cold months. Open doors and lids of the cold
JULIE WOODFORD / KATE CULLEN
frame on sunny days to improve ventilation. If there is warning of a severe frost, cover plants with frost cloth which is available at garden centres and is reusable year after year.
FLOWER OF THE MONTH
Nerine bowdenii AKA the Guernsey lily. One of the few flowers in the garden at this time of year, providing colour from dark crimson through to white in pots or garden borders. These sturdy, lily-like flowers return each year and last well when cut for a vase.
NOVEMBER GARDENING TASKS
1. Deadhead violas and pansies to keep them flowering throughout winter.
2. Prune established roses and plant bare root roses.
3. Bring pelargoniums into the house onto a windowsill to protect from frost.
4. Lift dahlias after the first frost to protect
the tuber and multiply your plants. Store somewhere dry and frost-free.
5. Now is the perfect time to plant your tulip bulbs. Plant them in clumps of at least five, seven or nine rather than rows for a natural look or in planters for colour in spring.
6. Before mid November plant Paperwhite Narcissi bulbs in pots. Place somewhere warm to have indoors at Christmas.
JULIE’S TIP: Look out for bunches of locally grown tulips in Spring. These are becoming more widely available and offer more variety, colour and larger flowers.
Follow Julie’s flower growing journey on Instagram: @madgeandivyflowers
ANNE SCHWARTZ / JULIE WOODFORD
BERKHAMSTED NEW CLINIC LAUNCH OPEN DAY
NEW CLINIC LAUNCH OPEN DAY
AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET KAY AND THE REGENTS PARK AESTHETICS TEAM
BERKHAMSTED NEW CLINIC LAUNCH OPEN DAY
AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET KAY AND THE REGENTS PARK AESTHETICS TEAM BERKHAMSTED
AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET KAY AND THE REGENTS PARK AESTHETICS TEAM
FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER • 11AM-6PM
FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER • 11AM-6PM
FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER • 11AM-6PM
Regents Park Aesthetics is an internationally recognised clinic renowned for its patient-centric approach and commitment to providing top-tier aesthetic treatments.
Regents Park Aesthetics is an internationally recognised clinic renowned for its patient-centric approach and commitment to providing top-tier aesthetic treatments.
Regents Park Aesthetics is an internationally recognised clinic renowned for its patient-centric approach and commitment to providing top-tier aesthetic treatments.
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Our flagship clinic is located in Wimpole street, the heart of London and with an overseas branch in Antigua, West Indies, this clinic caters to a global clientele, offering a welcoming and professional environment.
Our flagship clinic is located in Wimpole street, the heart of London and with an overseas branch in Antigua, West Indies, this clinic caters to a global clientele, offering a welcoming and professional environment.
Take a tour of our new clinic and learn about the range of treatments we offer
Take a tour of our new clinic and learn about the range of treatments we offer
Take a tour of our new clinic and learn about the range of treatments we offer
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• Prosecco & canapés
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• Treatment and skincare raffle with proceeds to our charity partner Hospice of St Francis
• Treatment and skincare raffle with proceeds to our charity partner Hospice of St Francis
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• Exclusive special offers
• Treatment and skincare raffle with proceeds to our charity partner Hospice of St Francis
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"Absolutely the best clinic in London. All the therapists are professional and very experienced. Kay is amazing and a master of her craft as they say. They are also always up to date with the newest procedures and have all the latest machines. Once you go here you’ll never need or want to go anywhere else.”
"Absolutely the best clinic in London. All the therapists are professional and very experienced. Kay is amazing and a master of her craft as they say. They are also always up to date with the newest procedures and have all the latest machines. Once you go here you’ll never need or want to go anywhere else.”
FIND OUT MORE BY GETTING IN TOUCH TODAY: The Red House, 113 High St, Berkhamsted, HP42DJ www.regentsparkaesthetics.co.uk • 0207 580 4813
FIND OUT MORE BY GETTING IN TOUCH TODAY: The Red House, 113 High St, Berkhamsted, HP42DJ www.regentsparkaesthetics.co.uk • 0207 580 4813
FIND OUT MORE BY GETTING IN TOUCH TODAY: The Red House, 113 High St, Berkhamsted, HP42DJ www.regentsparkaesthetics.co.uk • 0207 580 4813
The science of sleep
Nutritionist and hormone specialist Hannah Alderson explains how to manage your cortisol awakening response (CAR) as the nights draw in.
As shorter days really take hold in November, you can make small changes to improve your sleep quality. Each morning when you wake, you leave a state of sleep and enter a state of alert within a 30-40 minute window. Hormonally we call this the cortisol awakening response (CAR).Your body secretes cortisol, which ideally peaks after 40 minutes, then steadily declines throughout the day. By evening, melatonin should take over to send you to sleep.
Why is sleep so important for your hormonal balance? Your circadian rhythm is the beat of your hormonal drum - the 24 hour cycle in which your body functions. If this is not in check, your body has a tough time working out what to do, when. Think of it like a master clock that sits in your hypothalamus (an area of the brain that produces hormones that control body temperature, heart rate, hunger and mood). Your 24 hour cycle influences your patterns connected to being asleep, awake,
and hunger. But most fundamental to your hormonal health - your CAR.
Like any good song, your body clock cycle and CAR has to keep to a tight beat. If it’s off-key, your body will not know which time zone it’s in. This can create a downward spiral that can then drive insulin resistance and inflammation. Important to know: this can be a major roadblock for fat loss.
BAD NIGHT’S SLEEP? GET BACK ON TRACK WITH THESE TIPS:
1. Get out of bed as soon as you wake up.
2. Open your blinds and expose your eyes to the full spectrum of daylight upon waking. If the sun isn’t yet up, get outside as soon as it becomes light.
3. Avoid stimulants like coffee in this window, particularly on an empty stomach.
4. Get moving. This can be as simple as some light stretches to increase blood flow to your brain.
5. Stay away from the smartphone! This applies to your morning routine (during your CAR window) and in the night, if you can’t sleep.
MORNING TIP: Use an alarm clock. Screen use can negatively interfere with how your brain waves function in the morning, driving anxiety and stress.
EVENING TIP: Eat turkey, chicken, beans, legumes and pumpkin seeds. Boost melatonin production by increasing foods high in tryptophan – this is the amino acid that melatonin is synthesised from.
By following these instructions you’ll create an environment for your hormones to perform at their best. If you’re struggling with your hormones, your sleep or you’re looking for help to reach your happy weight, get in touch with Hannah to book a free discovery call.
A peek into the weekends of Berkhamsted locals, from Friday cocktails to Sunday lie-ins, Suzy Reading shares her favourite morning viewpoint, spots for coffee, and November's stunning fireworks displays.
I SPECIALISE IN…
Supporting people through stress, loss and change.
I LIVE WITH…
My husband and two children. I grew up on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia and we moved to Berkhamsted to be closer to my husband’s family.
WHY I LOVE BERKHAMSTED…
It’s a warm and friendly place. I found it easy to build a new life here; whenever I’m in town I’m sure to bump into someone I know from my yoga teaching days. I think the people of Berkhamsted recognise how fortunate we are to live in this town, with its beauty and safety, and it feels lovely to be part of such an appreciative community.
FRIDAYS…
Bar 309 is ideal for a relaxed way to close the working week with friends, and we love The Gatsby for family celebrations – it always feels special.
SATURDAYS…
My favourite morning ritual is Epicure – impeccable coffee and an atmosphere with heart. I enjoy taking a walk along the canal to see if I can spot kingfishers, before heading into town for a pootle. We make a beeline for The Berkhamsted Bookshop, Vinegar Hill and Gail’s for sweet treats.
SUNDAYS…
Rather than a lazy Sunday morning, I
prefer a zesty start to the day with a run around Northchurch common with a dear friend. Then we head to Berkhamsted Castle for a kickaround with the kids, or head up to Whipsnade to watch the bird show. Otherwise it’s swimming and tennis up at Knox Johnson.
BERKO TRADITIONS…
I’m looking forward to the starling murmuration over the reservoirs not far from Berkhamsted – one of my favourite joys unique to winter. The Firework display at the cricket club always makes the advent of the colder, darker months more exciting.
GOOD TO KNOW…
I just hosted a women’s wellbeing evening with a few local practitioners, on navigating perimenopause. There will be more events like it in the pipeline for Spring! Follow @suzyreading on Instagram for future event announcements.
BERKHAMSTED IS…
Best in winter. The milky pink mornings over the canal are breath-taking and some of my peak life moments have been local wintry ones. I’ll never forget the otherworldly ping of tossing ice chunks on the frozen canal, sounding just like a lightsaber battle.
Suzy’s latest book, Self-care for Winter, is available in The Berkhamsted Bookshop now.
Support local independent shops Thursday 21st & 28th November (and every Thursday in December until Christmas) Open all day until 7pm High Street & Lower Kings Road
