Pick p u me m I’ E! FRE
st albans August 2025
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Welcome to August
Whatever you’re up to this summer, make time to enjoy some of the many local events taking place. Have a flick through the magazine to see what‘s on, there’s something for all ages from 2 to 102. With all the summer activities going on, grab your friends and family and go and have some fun in the sun! To make sure you don’t miss out the magazines are available to read online every month. If you run your own business we‘d love to include you it’s so easy, just book your space online today.
Jane & Wendy
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Local St Albans Plasterer J C Moffat All Aspects of Plastering Reliable Clean Trusted Very High Standard Plastering in St Albans for over 20 Years For Any Advice or a Quotation Please Call Today
07955 555 120 183 The Ridgeway St Albans AL4 9XE
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knights to heritage craft demonstrations, interact with historical re-enactors, have a go at archery, listen to musical sounds of the past and more. London Road, Luton LU1 4LX www.culturetrust.com/whats-on
Roman Theatre Open Air Festival
Boudicca’s Roman Rampage 20th, 30th & 31st July & 12th - 13th Aug Guided Family Tours of the Roman Theatre. A Room of One’s Own 21st & 22nd July Disco Divas Live with The Sundaes 23rd July The Bear 24th - 26th July Shaw’s Corner Garden Trail: Shaw's Scrumptious Veg A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the until 31st Aug Thurs - Sun only 10am - 5pm Forum 29th & 31st July & 1st & 2nd Aug Bernard Shaw loved his vegetable patch, children A non-stop unforgettable, hysterical musical comedy, can help the gardener look after the imaginary patch set in Rome in 2000BC. on this interactive garden trail. Free with garden entry The Great Gatsby 8th, 9th, 11th, 12th, Outdoor Family Theatre: Robin Hood 14th - 19th & 21st - 24th Aug 24th Aug 5.30pm £16, child £11 It’s 1929 inside a smoky cabaret bar, performers take Full of memorable characters, silliness, to the stage for their final performance: the rise and songs and charm. fall of the legendary Gatsby. Outdoor Cinema: Shakes versus Shav Lord of the Flies 28th - 31st Aug £15 - £47 25th Aug every 30 minutes from 10.30am - 4pm OVO’s Youth Ensemble brings a raw, thoughtA garden screening of this madcap puppet film, provoking take on this timeless classic. with strings attached! No booking required Bluehouse Hill, St Albans AL3 6AE Bibbs Hall Lane, Welwyn AL6 9BX www.OVO.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Out & About
Harpenden Museum
Exhibition: Harpenden in WW2 until Sept free Open Tues, Thurs & Sats 11am-3pm Drawing on the Museum’s archives and using photos and personal testimonies, this exhibition reflects how the town and its people adapted to the war. Exhibition to Celebrate the Life of George Hogg 1915-1945 from 24th July This man, little-known in the UK and even in his home town of Harpenden, is renowned in China with statues in multiple cities and celebrated as a hero for rescuing a school of 60 boys by marching them 700 miles out of danger away from the invading Japanese army. He died 80 years ago aged just 30, an event commemorated in China, and now in Harpenden too. EMC, Rothamsted Park AL5 2FR www.harpenden-history.org.uk
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Dunstable Downs
Summer of Play: Sports Village 21st July - 31st Aug free Enjoy football, cricket, hockey, tennis, table tennis, athletics, frisbee, golf and mini croquet. Pick up equipment from the Sports Village. Let's Get Going 1st, 8th,15th, 22nd & 29th Aug 10am -12pm drop in, free, Enjoy nature-based coach-led games using play, movement and creativity. Kites Connect Festival 2nd & 3rd Aug 10am - 5pm, free An exhilarating festival to rediscover the power of kites in connecting us all. Summer Nights 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th Aug 5pm - 7pm, free Take in spectacular evening views, enjoy a BBQ, a stroll and borrow games and sports equipment. Pepperstock Archers 10th Aug 12 noon - 4pm free, no need to book Hit the bullseye with coach-led archery. Big Camp 15th - 17th Aug entry 12 noon - 3pm on Fri, exit by 2pm Sun A perfect family adventure, offering the opportunity to pitch your tent and camp overnight at the highest point in Bedfordshire. £110 per pitch for 2 adults and 3 children, under 5s free Circular Walk 27th Aug 10.30am £3 A 9k walk taking in the sites and views of Dunstable Downs. Please book and wear suitable footwear Whipsnade Road, Dunstable LU6 2GY www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Crazy Golf 19th July - 29th Aug £5 Launching the brand-new crazy golf course packed with 9 holes of non-stop fun, perfect for all the family! Garden Party 4th - 6th Aug 11am-3pm free, drop in Enjoy this family-friendly event bursting with puppetry, art, suitcase theatre and garden games. Colourscape 9th & 10th Aug £10 A large walk-in labyrinth of colour and light will fill the lawn, explore this amazing space and discover musicians and dancers who will lead you on a journey of all the senses. Please book Living History Festival 30th & 31st Aug 11am £7 See living history encampments recreating a glimpse of daily life from years gone by. From medieval www.theNOWmagazines.com 4
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Conveyancing, Family Law, Immigration, Litigation, Landlord and Tenant, Road Traffic Offences, Private Client We are a small friendly law firm and understand that when facing a legal problem it can be stressful, so our aim is to make you feel as comfortable as possible and assist you with achieving the results you desire by listening to you. We specialise in Conveyancing, Family Law, Immigration, Litigation, Landlord and Tenant, Road Traffic Offences and Private Client, and our rates are very reasonable for this area. Book a free 20 minute appointment to discuss how we can help. There is free parking for an hour right outside. Prepare for the future and protect yourself and your family.
131 - 133 Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JS 01727 839162 07955 952 250 info@abbeylaw.org
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St Albans Museum + Gallery
Out & About Hatfield House
6 Weeks of Summer 11am - 4pm £16, child £8 Meet the Makers 23rd - 27th July Enjoy hands-on craft workshops and discover the fascinating lives of bees. Stage & Screen 28th July - 3rd Aug With Immersion Theatre, cinema screenings and a woodland storytelling adventure. Transport Week 4th - 10th Aug Enjoy talks on the history of transport in Hatfield and create planes, trains and automobiles. History Week 11th - 17th Aug Family house and Old Palace tours and Classic Ibiza. Art Week 18th - 24th Aug Nature collaging and arts and crafts workshops. Nature Week 25th Aug - 2nd Sept Wildlife-themed activities. Live Music with Lawrence Hill 1st Aug 6.30pm, free Listen to this local musician in The Coach House Kitchen. The Wind in the Willows 1st Aug 5.30pm £16 Immersion Theatre bring their style and energy to the riverbank with interaction, stunning costumes, toetapping music, and larger-than-life characters. The Tempest 8th Aug 5.30pm £16 Shakespeare’s most magical play bursting with mayhem, comedy, romance and surprises. Classic Ibiza 16th Aug 5pm - 10.30pm, from £25 An open-air celebration of White Isle-inspired house music, reinvented by a 32-piece orchestra, headline DJs and live vocalists. Hatfield AL9 5HX www.hatfield-house.co.uk
Celtic Harmony Camp
Summer Holiday Activities 24th July - 2nd Sept Free activities every day for all the family, including dressing up, colouring in and museum and city trails. Exhibition: Generations until 16th Nov This exhibition spotlights local stories from South Asian communities across generations using objects and photographs from personal collections, along with creative storytelling and explores the relationship between the UK and South Asian countries. Printing Workshop for Families 6th Aug age 7+ 10.15am & 11.30am, £7.50 * Work out your design, draw it onto a foam tile, then start printing. Mixed Media Landscapes for Families 13th Aug 10.15am & 11.30am £7.50, age 5+ * Experiment with paint and collage to create your own landscape. Mini Mela 16th Aug 11am - 3pm free To celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, drop in to celebrate our rich and diverse communities, and enjoy some craft activities. Still Life for Families 20th Aug 10.15am & 11.30am, £7.50, age 5+ * Experiment with pencil, charcoal and paint to create a still life drawing. Miniature Fruit & Flowers 27th Aug 10.15am & 11.30am £8.50 age 5+ * Make a flower or fruit from colourful polymer clay. * Please book, children must be with an adult St Peter’s Street, St Albans AL1 3DH www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk
Bletchley Park
Summer of Peace 28th July - 29th Aug Commemorating the anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, discover moving stories, enjoy creative drop-in activities and contribute to a growing collaborative artwork ‘Peace Blooms’. Twelfth Night 1st Aug gates 6pm, performance 7pm Shakespeare’s classic performed outdoors by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. £20, child £14 Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB www.bletchleypark.org.uk
Shuttleworth
DH.60 Centenary Fly In 31st July & 1st Aug Rewild Your Summer 10am - 5pm, from £17.50, child free 24th July - 25th Aug 10am - 6pm, £20, age 4+ This action-packed day has all things Moth, with a Step into the wild and reconnect with nature through collection of de Havilland types flying in from all over immersive hands-on experiences. Whether you’re a the UK and Europe, and a flying display on Friday. curious adventurer or a family seeking something NSRA Hot Rod Supernationals different, this is a day of unplugged fun, traditional 10th Aug 10am £13, child £4 skills and outdoor freedom. This family-friendly event includes activities, A Dance with the Minotaur’s Sister entertainment, trade stalls, show cars, funfair, 2nd Aug 7pm, £15, age 16+ a bar and music. A magical evening of myth and firelight, to celebrate Flying Proms 16th Aug 12noon from £50, child £25 Lughnasa with captivating storytelling in the heart of Enjoy displays of aerobatics and pyrotechnics all the woods, at this ancient Celtic festival marking the choreographed to live music performed by the first harvest. National Symphony Orchestra. Finishing with a Brickendon Lane, Brickendon SG13 8NY spectacular firework finale. www.celticharmony.org www.theNOWmagazines.com 10
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Hearing Glasses are here! Based locally since 1981, Hearing Healthcare Practice is one of the UK’s leading hearing centres of excellence. We’ve won the prestigious European Audiologist of the These new glasses offer Year Award twice and been voted UK Audiologist of the hearing Year three times.
support built into a pair of stylish spectacles
Throughout our long history, we’ve taken pride in guiding people through their hearing journey with trusted, personalised advice. So, we’re excited to introduce a new product designed to break down barriers that prevent people from seeking support for their hearing challenges.
Nuance Audio Hearing Glasses
These innovative new glasses combine wearable technology, offering hearing support through discreet microphones and speakers built into a pair of stylish spectacles. Nuance Audio has been developed to address three key reasons people avoid traditional hearing aids: Stigma - many people dislike how hearing aids look but are happy to wear glasses Convenience - some only experience hearing difficulty in specific situations, such as meetings or social events. With Nuance you can simply put on your glasses Cost - hearing aids can sometimes feel like a luxury
Of course, the reasons are personal, and that’s where we come in. At Hearing Healthcare Practice, we help people explore their options with complete honesty and care. We’re proud to be the first UK audiology clinic to offer Nuance Audio direct, with or without a clinic visit, but always under our expert audiological supervision. We’ve created a simple self-evaluation form to help you decide whether the product is right for you. You can also try our free online hearing test or visit us in Harpenden to test Nuance in person. Nuance glasses include photochromic lenses, a companion app, and the option to return them if they’re not quite right. And if they’re not, we’ll help you find something that is. We’re still committed to the one-to-one professional hearing care that has made us famous, but if Nuance is the stepping stone that gets you started, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Scan the QR Code to take our Free Online Hearing Test and see whether Nuance Hearing Glasses might be right for you. To find out more simply give us a call or email us 01582 767 218 info@hearinghealthcare.co.uk Hearing Healthcare Practice 26 The Foresters High Street Harpenden AL5 2FB
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Out &About Shuttleworth
Family Concert 17th Aug 12 noon, from £25, child free The National Symphony Orchestra playing songs live, with performers from local groups and West End star, Lauren Byrne. Includes songs from: Hairspray, Mary Poppins, Frozen, Hercules, Wicked and more. Best of British Air Show 30th Aug 9am from £36, child free Explore the history of engineering technology, with parades, thrilling air displays, interactive experiences, food and drink and classic fun fair entertainment. Biggleswade SG18 9DT www.shuttleworth.org
Summer Tree Identification Workshop 12th Aug 10am - 3.30pm £13 Learn how to identify trees in their summer state, in the classroom and walking round the park. Panshanger Park, B1000, Hertford SG14 2NA Late Summer Stroll 16th Aug 10am - 12pm free, donations appreciated Take a summer walk to enjoy the late summer flowers, dragonflies and damselflies and hear about the resident water voles. Thorley Wash, Spellbrook CM22 7SE Scything Workshop 19th Aug 10am - 1pm free, donations appreciated Try glade cutting with a traditional scythe. Adults only Astonbury Wood, Aston, Nr Stevenage SG14 3R Smartphone Safari 19th Aug 10.30am - 12.30pm £30, child £15 Learn how to take amazing wildlife photos. Grebe House, St Michael's Street AL3 4SN www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk
Chiltern Open Air Museum
All events included in admission £16, £15, child £11 Rogues & Highwaymen The Old Town Hall 2nd & 3rd Aug 10am - 5pm Quentin Blake's Mrs Armitage on Wheels A thrilling adventure with 18th century outlaws. 1st Aug 2pm, £12 The Longest Yarn 2: Britain at War 2nd - 31st Aug Interactive, energetic show, celebrating the joy of See a spectacular 60-metre knitted and crocheted getting outdoors. Featuring live music, puppetry and tapestry marking 80 years since VE Day. physical comedy. Adapted from Quentin Blake’s Terrific Tuesdays 11am - 4pm classic and presented by Scoot Theatre. - Stone Age 5th Aug Screaming Blue Murder - Fun of the Fair 12th Aug 18th Aug 8pm, £10, age 18+ - Bushcraft 26th Aug Resident monthly comedy club, with Dan Antopolski, Unleash your creativity with clay-makes and Brendan Dempsey and compere Windsor. crafts to take home. Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE www.oldtownhall.co.uk Britain at War 9th & 10th Aug 10am - 5pm Watch re-enactment groups depicting different Herts & Middx Wildlife Trust wartime periods throughout Britain's history. Bat Walk 2nd Aug 8.15pm - 10:15pm Find out more about the bats that call Thorley Wash Victorian Weekend 16th & 17th Aug 10am - 5pm home, free, donations appreciated. Learn about the less savoury aspects of Victorian life Thorley Wash, Spellbrook CM22 7SE in a fun, family-friendly environment. Walk: Aerial Invertebrates of Heath & Wood WW2 Victory in Japan Day 19th Aug 11am - 4pm 5th Aug 11am - 12.30pm £5 A day of family activities to commemorate 80 years Learn about the butterflies and dragonflies of Hertford since Victory in Japan. With 1940s music, crafts, meet Heath and Balls Wood. Please book the WW2 Home Guard and more. Hertford Heath, Hertford SG13 7PW Blacksmith Demonstrations Life at the Lake 23rd Aug 10.30am - 4.30pm 5th, 7th & 12th Aug 11am - 3pm See and hear the blacksmith in action working a Enjoy fun educational activities about predators and traditional Victorian forge. prey, plants and pollution. Viking Raid 24th & 25th Aug 10am - 5pm Stocker’s Lake Rickmansworth Aquadrome WD3 1NB Watch Viking re-enactments and battles and enjoy Summer Holiday Drop in Sessions games, music, storytelling and fun activities. 7th & 18th Aug 11am - 2pm free Spoon Carving Demonstrations Find out how to make a mini pond, explore the garden 30th & 31st Aug 10.30am - 4.30pm and meet Willoughby, the giant willow-weaved Local bushcraft expert, David Willis, will be showing hedgehog! his spoon carving skills. Wildlife Garden, Grebe House, St Albans AL3 4SN Newland Park, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk 14
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Out & About St Albans City Walks
at the Ringing Group as they check mist nets for birds, and explain how bird ringing works. Big Wild Pyjama Party 29th Aug 5pm £7 - £16 Experience the sights and sounds of nature as the reserve settles down for the night. Don your favourite PJs, grab your teddy and a blanket, pop on your wellies and enjoy this family-friendly evening in the great outdoors! Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Ware SG12 8JS www.events.rspb.org.uk
2nd Aug 2.30pm Tudor St Albans 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 25th & 31st Aug 11.15am & 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th Aug 2.30pm Historic St Albans 3rd & 31st Aug 2.30pm Fishpool Street 9th Aug 2.30pm Crime & Punishment 10th Aug 2.30pm 20th Century St Albans 15th Aug 7pm Pubs of St Albans 17th Aug 2.30pm Coaching Inns 23rd Aug 11am Roman City Revealed 24th Aug 2.30pm Monastery Revealed 30th Aug 2.30pm City Centre Highlights 31st Aug 2.30pm Wheathampstead £6, please book online or call 01727 613603 www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk
Discover the Magic of Dragonflies
Knebworth House
23rd, 24th, 30th & 31st Aug 2pm - 4pm adult £5 In aid of Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust. Abbey Gate House, Abbey Mill Lane AL3 4HD
Twelfth Night Garden Theatre 3rd Aug Classic Motor Show 24th & 25th Aug With a static display and a show arena hosting parades of vehicles include saloons, sports, American, commercial and military and classic motorcycles. Plus children’s entertainment, live music, hot food and shopping stalls. Live Queen Experience 29th Aug An unforgettable evening under the stars as the sound of one of rock’s greatest bands is brought to life in this high-energy tribute show. Live ABBA Tribute 30th Aug Get ready to dance, sing and relive the magic of ABBA at this open-air tribute night, packed with timeless classics from Dancing Queen to Mamma Mia. Knebworth House, Stevenage SG1 2AX www.knebworthhouse.com
Rye Meads
9th Aug 11am free Join dragonfly experts on this guided walk along the Dragonfly Trail as you learn about their lifecycles, hunting techniques, and unique resting behaviours. Panshanger Park, Hertford SG14 2NA panshangerpark.tarmac.com
Sunday Opening 10th Aug 3pm £8, child £4 St Albans Organ Theatre, Camp Road AL1 5PE www.stalbansorgantheatre.org.uk
Evening Garden Tour
14th Aug 5.30pm £20 Wrest Park, Silsoe, Beds MK45 4HR www.english-heritage.org.uk
Bishop of St Albans Garden Open Days
Wednesday Wander 6th Aug 12 noon - 2pm £5 - £6 An informal guided walk to see the diversity of wildlife that call the reserve home at this time of year. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Guided Walk: Dragonfly & Damselfly 16th Aug 1pm £5 - £12 Expert guides will talk about what pressures dragonflies and damselflies are facing and what species you might find there. Up Close with the Birds 23rd Aug 8am £8 - £20 Arrive before the reserve opens to meet the experts www.theNOWmagazines.com 16
Formerly Lanwarne Landscapes, only the name has changed
Multi Award Winning Company
All aspects of Horticulture, Garden Maintenance and Landscape Construction
01727 757463 / 07747 692153 greenleafgardenco@gmail.com greenleafgardenco Greenleafgardenco
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Hold an event for SustFest in September!
Out & About Hertfordshire Showground
Dreamland Jouvert 23rd Aug 12 noon - 8pm Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of life, culture and freedom! Expect powder, paint, water and Soca music so come dressed to get messy. Age 20+ High Octane Family Fest Weekender 30th - 31st Aug 12 noon - 10pm The ultimate family fun day out with balloon displays, fairground village, night glow shows, stunt rider Flyin Ryan, BMX Arena stunt team, axe throwing, archery and more. Herts Showground AL3 7PT www.skiddle.com
Beer at Pioneer 24th Aug 2pm - 11pm
A celebration of great beer, good vibes and top-notch entertainment! Adults only The Pioneer Club, Harpenden Road AL3 5AY www.pioneerclub.co.uk
Chilli Fest 29th - 31st Aug 10am - 5pm
Turn up the heat and enjoy food and drink stalls, a chilli eating competition, The Bubble Wizard, family entertainment, the shopping village and live music. £20, child £11, under 4’s free Waddesdon, Bucks HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk
19th - 22nd September This year, SusFest, run by Sustainable St Albans, is run as four seasonal weekends. The next is in September, and they need your help! The theme is ‘Travel & Transport’, and open to interpretation, for example, you might be: Part of a local cycling, running or walking club An expert who can give advice on sustainable holidays A group of parents or teachers who run a walking bus A bicycle repair person An electric car dealership A company or charity that transports people across the district A local business owner who transports their goods in a sustainable way To encourage a more sustainable and connected community, we need to show what we are doing locally, and how we can make a difference. If you have an event you’d like included as part of the weekend, please register it at www.sustainablestalbans.org If you have any questions, or want to talk through your ideas just email sustfest@sustainablestalbans.org
Earthworks 30th Anniversary Celebration 30th Aug 12 noon - 4pm, free There will be plants and crafts for sale, local interest stalls, inclusive activities and a chance to explore the gardens. Earthworks is a charity offering social and therapeutic horticulture opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and other support needs. Hixberry Lane, St Albans AL4 0TZ www.earthworks.co.uk
Redbourn Classics Motor Show & Village Fete 30th Aug 12 noon - 5pm
Featuring over 350 classic vehicles, with live music, street food, a licensed bar, children's funfair rides and a miniature railway. Suggested donation £3 going to support local charities, child free Redbourn Common www.redbournclassics.co.uk
IWM History Festival
30th & 31st Aug £60, child £30 Commemorating 80 years since the end of WW2, enjoy a weekend of discovery and entertainment with talks, re-enactments, book signings and more. IWM Duxford, Cambs CB22 4QR www.iwm.org.uk 18
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A local family business offering regular, occasional and one off gardening and maintenance services Lawn Mowing I Hedge Cutting Weeding I Garden Clearance Fencing I Power Washing/Sealing Turfing I General Maintenance + Much more… Contact us now for a free quote!
01582 529429 I 07854 449371 info@detailgardening.co.uk DetailGardening
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NOW
for the Kids The Celebration Garden Gnome Trail
Mon - Sat: 9am - 5.30pm & Sun: 10.30am - 4.30pm Download the free activity app and join the celebration of 70 years of garden magic on this magical trail. Ayletts Nurseries, North Orbital Road AL2 1DH www.aylettnurseries.co.uk
The Libraries
LEGO Clubs for Children £4.40, please book Harpenden Library: Mondays 3.45pm St Albans Library: Fridays 4.30pm Favourite Toys 6th Aug 11am £4.40 Explore old toys in the reminiscence boxes. St Albans Library Children's Writing Workshop 14th Aug 3pm £8 With award-winning children’s author Camilla Chester. Harpenden Library St Albans Library, Level 2, The Maltings AL1 3JQ Harpenden Library, High Street, Harpenden AL5 2RU www.hertfordshire.gov.uk
Summer Spectacular until 2nd Sept
Enjoy the a-maze-ing Maize Maze, Puddle Play Park, adventure play, funfair rides, tractor rides, farmyard animals, indoor soft play and more. £14.95 - £24.95 Willows Activity Farm, St Albans AL4 0PF www.willowsactivityfarm.com
Summer Reading Challenge - Garden Story until 30th Sept
Sign up at your local library or online, set a reading goal and log your books on your profile to get rewards, play games and earn badges. www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
Summer of Fun & Games
19th July - 31st Aug 10am - 5pm Enjoy activities for all the family, from soft play and mini golf to archery and den building. Adult from £17.70, child from £10.90 Wrest Park Silsoe, Beds MK45 4HR www.english-heritage.org.uk
Shaggy’s Summer Spectacular
19th July - 31st Aug So much to do with Zorbing, a silent disco, a foam party, the SkyTrail, a rock climbing wall, bottle feeding lambs, indoor play and more. £16.95 Mead Open Farm, Billington LU7 9JH www.meadopenfarm.co.uk
Workshops: Ocean Exploration 21st - 24th
Summer of Play
23rd July - 31st Aug 10am - 4pm Every day enjoy garden games of cricket, tennis, rounders and lots more. Free with grounds admission 25th - 27th July Axe throwing, archery, climbing wall 1st - 3rd Aug Storm in a Teacup Circus 8th Aug Buzz: puppet show 9th Aug Upstream: puppet show 10th Aug The Dragon Wagon: interactive family show 15th - 17th Aug Painting outdoors, all ages 22nd - 25th Aug Nine hole crazy golf 23rd - 25th Aug Family game of croquet 29th - 31st Aug Life-sized interactive games Waddesdon Manor, Bucks HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk
Summer of Fun ‘n’ Flight all events £5 - £7 23rd July - 3rd Aug age 4+ - RC Helicopter Scavenger Hunt & Time Trial - RAF Hendon LEGO Reconstruction 4th - 17th Aug age 6+ - Top Trumps Tournament / Airfix Make & Take 18th - 24th Aug selected dates age 4+ - VR Workshops: Space Explorers - Super Science Show 25th - 31st Aug selected dates age 4+ - In Time! RAF Mystery Game - Crazy Comic Book Workshops RAF Museum, London NW9 5LL www.rafmuseum.org.uk
Roald Dahl Museum
Matilda’s Missenden Story Trail 24th July - 31st Aug 10am - 4.30pm Crunchem Hall Playground 24th July - 31st Aug 10am - 4.30pm Play traditional games with a Roald Dahl twist. Miss Honey’s Magical Garden age 5+ 29th - 31st July & 1st Aug 11.30am - 2.45pm, Craft a garden with inspiration from the book Matilda. Mr Wormwood’s Junkyard Cars 5th - 8th Aug 11am - 3pm. Hear about the cars Matilda’s dad sold, then invent your own. Age 5+ Family Writing Workshop Poet Will Burns 7th Aug 11am - 1pm, age 5+ Goodies & Baddies Clay Creations 12th - 15th, 19th & 20th Aug 11am - 3pm, age 5+ Titchy Superheroes 13th & 28th Aug 10.30am & 12.30pm, age 6 months - 4 years Enjoy singing, crafting and playing using your senses Meet Miss Trunchbull 14th & 23rd Aug 10.30am & 1pm, age 5+
& 29th - 31st July & 5th - 7th Aug 10.30am & 2pm Learn about animals that live in and around the ocean. Tring Natural History Museum HP23 6AP www.nhm.ac.uk www.theNOWmagazines.com 20
Matilda’s Superpowers Storyboard 21st & 22nd Aug 10.30am - 2.30pm, age 7+ Trunchbull’s Flying Tricks 26th & 27th Aug Hands-on science session. 10.30am - 3pm, age 5+ Guided Marvellous Matilda Walk 29th Aug 11.30am & 2pm, age 6+ Great Missenden, Bucks HP16 0AL www.roalddahlmuseum.org
Summer Holiday Activities
24th July - 2nd Sept Follow Tessa Wheeler’s trail, touch genuine Roman objects and dress up as a Roman. Included with entry Verulamium Museum, St Albans AL3 4SW www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk
Standalone Farm
Science Boffins 28th July - 1st Aug from £5.50 Watch as chemical reactions bubble, burst and even catch fire in a series of spectacular demonstrations. Amey Zoo Creature Connections 4th - 8th Aug from £5.50 This hands-on experience will introduce you to an array of creatures. The Elves & the Shoemaker 11th - 15th Aug from £9.50 With puppetry, laughter and original music. Dog & Duck Show 18th - 22nd Aug from £5.50 Watch as the sheepdog herds the ducks, showcasing their impressive teamwork and agility. Space Dome 25th - 29th Aug from £6.50 Transport your little ones into outer space with the immersive Space Dome. Wilbury Road, Letchworth Garden City SG6 4JN www.standalonefarm.com
Children’s Summer Garden Workshops Ages 4-7 & 8-11, 10am, £10, please book 31st July Herbs / 7th Aug Fruit and vegetables 14th Aug Flowers and seeds Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton LU1 4LF www.lutonhooestate.co.uk
Mini Millers Stay & Play
1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th Aug 10am, 11am, 2pm & 3pm £6, child £2 Under 5's Play themed around milling, baking and rivers. Mill Green Museum & Mill, Hatfield AL9 5PD www.millgreenmuseum.co.uk
Red Panda Weekend 16th & 17th Aug Reptile Weekend 23rd & 24th Aug Jaguar Weekend 30th & 31st Aug Hertfordshire Zoo, Broxbourne EN10 7QA www.hertfordshirezoo.com
Hertford Castle
Rock at the Castle 3rd Aug 12 noon - 7pm Performances by local musicians will span across multiple stages with a range of music suitable for all. Hertford Play Day 6th Aug 11am - 4pm The castle will be filled with activities and games. Castle Street SG14 1HR www.hertford.gov.uk
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
Tea & Tour 3rd Aug from 10.30am, tour 12 noon £30 Day Out With Thomas 9th - 10th Aug 10.30am - 5pm £20.90, child £16.50 Celebrate 80 years of Thomas. Auto Fest 25th Aug £14.50, £13.50 child £10.50 Classic vehicles on display, the heritage railway, steam train rides, miniature and model railways and more. Station Road, Quainton, Bucks HP22 4BY www.bucksrailcentre.digitickets.co.uk
Radlett Centre
Spot's Birthday Party 5th - 6th Aug 11am & 2pm £16.50 age 2+ Includes a free party hat and meet and greet with Spot. Pop Princesses 7th Aug 1pm £21 A show where beautiful princesses become pop stars. Science Museum Live on Stage 8th Aug 12 noon & 2.30pm £16,50, £15.50 Ignite your curiosity and fuel your imagination. Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show 28th Aug 12 noon & 3pm £18, £17 Based on the bestselling books by Liz Pichon. Aldenham Ave, Radlett WD7 8HL www.radlettcentre.co.uk
World Lion Day 9th & 10th Aug 11am - 5pm
The Zoo is home to, Winta, Waka and Malik and their 7 cubs! To raise awareness for these magnificent animals, there’ll be talks, trails, competitions & more. Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable LU6 2LF www.whipsnadezoo.org
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck Herts Zoo all included as part of general admission 17th Aug 3pm £16, child £11 Fun weekends with themed merchandise, treats and more, all while raising funds for animal conservation. Tiger Weekend 2nd & 3rd Aug Bird Weekend 9th & 10th Aug
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This is an outdoor performance, bring chairs & picnics Shenley Park WD7 9DW www.shenleypark.co.uk
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Scouting for Volunteers!
Effective low cost advertising that really works! 12 months 1/4 page £33 per edition 1/3 page £40 per edition 1/2 page £49 per edition Full page £84 per edition
3 months £43 per edition £52 per edition £64 per edition £110 per edition
Please get in touch
Call Jane or Wendy 07893 588291 07983 588313 jane@theNOWmagazines.com
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Did you know the number of young people involved in Scouts, boys and girls (ages 10 - 14) and Explorer Scouts (ages 14 - 17) in St Albans is growing. Over the last two years the Scout section has grown by over 5% and the Explorer section by over 18%, the numbers are at their highest for more than 25 years. This is due to the amazing programmes organised by volunteers, ranging from air activities to cooking, emergency aid to global issues and pioneering to water activities. Scouting provides over 250 activities and there is something for everyone. Young people can also learn and develop skills for life, such as communication, independence, leadership, problem solving, responsibility and team working. Arissa said, “What I’ve enjoyed the most about Scouts is I meet new friends and do fun activities. I’m really excited about going to Camp this year. I learn lots of new things every week and I really enjoyed meeting the mini beasts”. Daniel said, “The best thing about Scouts so far is, going on the high ropes and 3G swing” Sam, one of the volunteers with said, “Our Scouts can participate in a wide range of activities that they may not get the chance to do elsewhere, along with forming lasting friendships during their time with us. As a volunteer it is great to share the Scouting journey with them.” In a recent YouGov poll, 80% of those interviewed felt that Scouts had a positive impact on communities and 87% thought that children and young people learnt skills for life. Adult volunteer Nigel said, “Volunteering with Scouts is a great opportunity to help young people learn and develop skills along with having fun and trying out new activities. It’s also a great opportunity to learn and develop new skills yourself, make friends, try new activities and take pride in seeing young people develop. If you want to work with young children or teenagers, help fund raise or help look after the Scout HQ or help with admin or be a Trustee, we will find you a role.” For further information about any of the sections or volunteering, please visit www.scouts.org.uk/join
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07500 801192
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St Albans The Flooring Professionals You Can Trust KC Flooring Specialists Ltd are experts in all types of flooring
Visit our Local Showroom KC Flooring Specialists LTD 200 Watford Road, Chiswell Green, St Albans AL2 3EB
01727 869 692
www.kcflooring.co.uk 28
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M & M Decorators
Alex Sutton All aspects of Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior Wallpaper hanging Wall & Floor tiling
Fully qualified City and Guilds Over 25 years experience All interior and exterior work undertaken Specialist in all types of wallpaper All work finished to a high professional standard Free quotations at competitive prices Matthew Hayden 01582 270715 01727 867660 07970 720911 mandmdecs@gmail.com mandm_decorators
25 years Experience Free Estimates given
Alex Sutton
References available
All Aspects of 07814433727 Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior alex287sutton@gmail.com Wallpaper Hanging Wall & Floor Tiling 25 years experience Free estimates References available 07814 433724 alex287sutton@gmail.com
01727 224802 07983 588291
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Harpenden Blinds
We Supply & Fit Beautiful Wooden Plantation Window Shutters Specialising in Bay Windows
Free No Obligation
Consultation, Measuring & Quotation
Summer Sale 25% off Shutters
20% off all Blinds Awnings Poles & Curtains
Kevin Buckler Harpenden Blinds harpendenblinds@outlook.com
01582 461639
20 Bewdley Close Harpenden
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DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd We care about your small jobs too! ● Electric and Power Showers Fitted ● Ball Valves and Overflows ● Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and
Basins
● Repair/Renew Stopcocks and Taps ● Plumb in Washing Machines
and Dishwashers
● Repair Leaking Pipes ● Outside Taps
Dean Herrington 01727 764217 07830 159010 info@djmplumbing.co.uk www.djmplumbing.co.uk see our main advert on the inside back cover
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enquiries@gjsmithroofing.com
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Reliable Cleaning Services
Regular weekly cleaning Daily cleaning Moving in / out End of tenancy cleaning Deep cleaning After party / builders cleaning Office cleaning Carpet / upholstery cleaning
Give me a call on
References available on request Very competitive and affordable rates
07577 058113 www.anitacleaning.co.uk info@anitacleaning.co.uk 34
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NOW at the Cathedral
Tower Tours 2nd Aug 10am £15, child £12, please book Climb 211 steps to the spectacular Norman Tower and view St Albans, and if you are lucky, the tall buildings of the City of London. Meander the Monastery 3rd Aug 1.30pm & 30th Aug 2pm £12 In Medieval times the Abbey was surrounded by monastery buildings, a Chapter house, cloisters and the Abbots lodgings. Brother Stephen will take you around what remains of this world, while giving you a flavour of his daily life as a monk and his witness to the end of the monastery under Henry VIII. Organ Concert: James McVinnie 3rd Aug 3pm Free Tower & Treasures Tour 8th, 13th & 18th Aug 10.30am Exploring the grandeur of the cathedral floor with its shrines, wall paintings and medieval architecture, combined with a climb of the tower to see the ringing chamber, belfry and views from the roof. Organ Concert: Conor McGlone 10th Aug 3pm free The Beatles By Candlelight 13th Aug 7.30pm £20 - £60 A cast of West End Singers and a live band, Come Together for a Magical Mystery Tour, jam packed with over 40 Beatles hits as you have never heard them before! The Music Of U2 By Candlelight 14th Aug 7.30pm £20 - £60 Featuring a cast of world-class vocalists and a live band, performing classics from One, Bad and Beautiful Day to Pride, Vertigo and many more. Country By Candlelight 15th & 16th Aug 7.30pm £20 - £60 Get ready to hear hits from Dolly Parton, Luke Combs, Kenny Rogers, Rascal Flatts, Shania Twain, John Denver, Darius Rucker, Chris Stapleton and many more! More to Explore Tour: The Feast of Our Lady 17th Aug 1.30pm free, please book Join a trail looking out for images of the Blessed
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Virgin Mary, see her images in paint, glass and stone and find out who created them and why. A Day in the Life of a Monk 20th Aug 1.30am £12 Travel back in time and experience a day in the life of a medieval monk. Learn about the Monastery before taking part in three workshops - Medieval Medicine, Illuminated Lettering and Medieval Singing. Age 7-11 years with an accompanying adult. Family Discovery Morning: Summer 21st & 28th Aug 10am, drop in, free, age 5 - 11 Explore the Cathedral, learn about its history, dress up, create some art and craft then settle down for a story. Bowie By Candlelight 21st & 22nd Aug 7.30pm An incredible night of Bowie anthems including Let's Dance, Starman, Life on Mars, Rebel Rebel and more. The Wars of the Roses 22nd Aug 2pm £12 Learn about how the power struggle for the throne between the two royal houses of York and Lancaster left its mark on the fabric and people of the monastery in the 1400s & 1500s. Rogues and Rebels 25th Aug 10.30pm £12 From murder, witchcraft and heresy to challenging the laws and norms of their day, this tour tells the stories of those men and women associated with or depicted within the Abbey Church who, over the centuries followed their own path. Organ Concert: Friedhelm Flamme 25th Aug 3pm free Family Yoga Day 26th Aug 10.30am £7.50, age 7+ Starting in the Lady Chapel before moving to the bright and airy Alban Room, bring a yoga mat and enjoy a relaxing time. Service Among the Deaf Community 30th Aug 2.30pm An informal half hour service in British Sign Language. Tribute to Hans Zimmer & Film Favourites Illuminated 30th Aug 6.30pm & 8.45pm, age 8+ from £34 Cinema's most iconic music performed by the Illuminated Orchestra, enhanced by a stunning light show!
St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard AL1 1BY www.stalbanscathedral.org
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Index of Businesses Accountants Hicks
Blinds & Shutters Harpenden Blinds
Education 8
Kumon
Electrician 30
Flooring
Building
Funeral Directors 26 15
Charity
DENS - Hillbuster
Children’s Art Classes ArtShed!
Chimney Sweep
Home Sweep Home
Cleaning
Anita Cleaning Services Rise Professional Cleaning Shineup Exterior Cleaning
Computer Courses Computer Friendly
Conservatory Roofing GJ Smith Roofing
16 7 35 34 35 35
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The Complete Garage Door Co Garage Style
32 2
Gardening
Detail Gardening & Maintenance 19 Greenleaf Garden Company 17 Julia Langsman Garden Design 17 Sunshine Gardens 39
Healthcare
Spire Harpenden Hospital
Hearing Services
Hearing Healthcare Practice
Home Care
Locksmiths
Lock Around the Clock Locksmith Services
Loft Ladders
Home Counties Loft Ladders 23 23
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Back Cover
Nannies 4 Grannies 6
Dance & Drama Penny Waterman School of Dance Stagecoach
KC Flooring Specialists Ltd Austin’s
24 & 25 13 38
Alex Sutton CB Decorators M & M Decorators
KPI Wasp Treatment The Verminator
29 29 29 19 19
Plasterer J C Moffat
3
Plumber
DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd
Pressure Washing SG Jet Washing
Property Maintenance The 50 Plus
Roofing
GJ Smith Roofing
31 & 39 30 32 32
Solicitors
Abbey Law Rayden Solicitors
9 8
Storage
Storage and Containers 31 31
Tree Surgeons
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Windows & Doors
Open Air Theatre Roman Theatre Open Air Festival
Painters & Decorators
Pest Control
Garage Doors / Flooring
Care Home
The Orchard - Caring Homes
30
St Albans Sparks
Broadband Provider toob.co.uk Front Cover Open Plan Solutions
22
5
Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd Abbey Doors & Windows Cloud 9 Glazing
3 27 27
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We have made every effort to ensure that any material published in st albans NOW is correct and can accept no liability for any errors or delays in publication or distribution, st albans NOW accepts no responsibility for its advertisers. www.theNOWmagazines.com
Discounts
DJ&M
PLUMBING SERVICES LTD ●
●
●
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Bathrooms, Shower Rooms, Cloakrooms and Kitchens from Design to Completion
Electric and Power Showers ● Repair/Renew Stopcocks, Taps and Outside Taps ● Blocked WC’s, Sinks, Baths and Basins ● Leaking Pipes and Overflows ● Washing Machines and Dishwashers Installed ●
Local Family Run Business, Over 40 Years Experience Honest and Reliable Service Free Consultation/ Quotation for all Enquiries
given on all Bathrooms & Kitchens supplied
Tiling Plastering Electrical
Dean Herrington
07830 159010
info@djmplumbing.co.uk
07983 588291
01727 764217
www.djmplumbing.co.uk
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