Eastlife Summer 2020 (Web)

www.eastlife.co.uk

Don’t put your
life on hold
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital
At Nuffield Health Brentwood
Hospital our experienced general
surgeons specialise in a range of
diagnostic and repair procedures.
They are experts in their field and
can provide rapid access
to treatment.
Why choose Nuffield Health Brentwood
Hospital for your general surgery?
Whether you are seeking results from a
diagnostic procedure or looking at treatment
options to remove a painful hernia, our team
of experienced general surgeons at Nuffield
Health Brentwood Hospital are experts in
their field, providing you with rapid access
to a personalised treatment plan.
Choosing to go private provides you
with a number of benefits. At Nuffield
Health Brentwood Hospital you can:
Skip the waiting lists to be seen quickly
Be seen by the same consultant from
your initial consultation, through to your
aftercare
Receive a packaged price inclusive of all
aftercare needed
Receive a detailed and accurate diagnosis
from any diagnostic procedure as soon
as possible.
Awards 2017, 2018, 2019
WINNER
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Some of the general surgery treatments available in Brentwood Hospital include:
Appendix removal
Colonoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Gall bladder removal
Gastroscopy
Haemorrhoid removal
Hernia repair
Thyroid surgery
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For more information or to book,
call 01277 695 631
visit nuffieldhealth.com/brentwood
email brentwood.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital
Shenfield Road, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8EH
Follow us at @nuffieldhealthbrentwoodhospital

Full speed ahead
We’re bringing full fibre connectivity to the
residents and businesses in the East of England
What does this mean for you?
· Access gigabit speed (1000Mbps) internet services
· Say goodbye to the “buffer wheel of boredom”
· Enjoy seamless gaming and media streaming
· Fully benefit from smart home technology
· Work from home with seamless file sharing,
reliable cloud access and crystal clear video calling
For more information,
visit cityfibre.com/gigabit-cities
Follow us @cityfibre
Register your interest at
cityfibre.com/register
Revolutionary digital connectivity
comes to the East of England
World-class digital infrastructure is set to be rolled out to towns
and cities across the East of England thanks to an investment of
over £100m from CityFibre.
Cambridge, Peterborough, Southend, Ipswich, Lowestoft and
Bury St. Edmunds will be among the first in the region to benefit,
with construction now well underway to bring future-proofed
digital connectivity to almost every home and business.
This is part of the up to £4 billion national Gigabit City
Investment Programme by CityFibre to bring full fibre
infrastructure to up to 8 million homes and businesses across
more than 60 towns and cities.
Having access to transformative full fibre connectivity will help
drive innovation and productivity across the East of England,
ultimately giving businesses the platform they need to flourish.
This will support the adoption of flexible working practices and
ensure the region has a resilient and dynamic economy for
years to come.
For residents, this will not only transform their online
experiences by enabling seamless multi-device streaming,
buffer-free video calling and real-time gaming, it also brings the
Internet of Things (IoT) to life by providing the high-capacity
connection required for products to work.
With city-wide connectivity, Smart City initiatives such as
autonomous vehicles and intelligent traffic detection become
a reality. Furthermore, this new digital infrastructure opens
up opportunities to improve the way in which medical care
is delivered and enhance educational facilities in schools,
universities and colleges.
CityFibre’s construction teams are working closely with
councils to carefully plan the building works. Where possible,
the team will utilise existing underground and overhead
telecommunications infrastructure for the installation, to ensure
a quicker, more efficient delivery and reduced disruption to
residents.
Keep an eye out for CityFibre’s distinctive bright green banners
in the street as new network is installed throughout the area.
Residents can register their interest via
www.cityfibre.com/register.
For more information on CityFibre visit www.cityfibre.com/
gigabit-cities or follow us on Twitter or Facebook @CityFibre

Contents
Contents
Magazine Production
PUBLISHER Sean Thompson
sean@eastlife.co.uk | 01954 267696
EDITOR Emma Kemsley
emma@eastlife.co.uk | 01954 267904
GRAPHIC DESIGN Attribute Design Ltd
hello@attribute-design.co.uk
SOCIAL MEDIA Rebecca Smith
rebecca@eastlife.co.uk | 07742 562243
SALES ENQUIRIES
Stewart Hedges
stewart@eastlife.co.uk | 01954 267164
Jim Leishman
jim@eastlife.co.uk | 01954 267635
ACCOUNTS & GENERAL ENQUIRIES
accounts@eastlife.co.uk | 01954 268129
ON THE COVER
Photo © Katy Jon Went
Painting © Eloise O’Hare
Eloise O’Hare, ‘Trinity Tryptic’, Bishop’s House
Gardens, Norwich, Mixed Media, 7.5x10.5in, Paint Out
Gardens 2019, Spirit of Plein Air Award
paintout.org/eloise-o-hare
EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners
Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or
in whole, without the written permission of the
publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed
by contributors are not necessarily those of the
publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were
correct at the time of going to press but readers are
advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed
by Buxton Press.
Dear Reader,
I wanted to let you know as a team here at Eastlife, we’ve been working
hard during these uncertain times. We are lucky enough to be able to
work from home on our laptops and are passionate about being your
guide to the East. Therefore, after much discussion, we decided to
proceed with our summer issue.
Though circumstances are uncertain at the time of print as COVID-19
hurls towards its peak, the articles in this magazine are there to offer
some light relief and distraction. The articles aim to inspire you for
happier times ahead. Just know that we will travel again, we’ll dance
at festivals and concerts, we’ll dine out with friends and our glorious
coastline will be waiting for us when this is over.
As an independent publishing company, we rely on our wonderful
advertisers to create a great read and we continue to support them
through this difficult time.
We’ll continue posting online at www.eastlife.co.uk and you can
follow us on our social media platforms for relevant content during this
time.
Stay home, stay safe and we’ll see you on the other side!
Emma Kemsley
DON’T FORGET TO DOWNLOAD THE EASTLIFE APP AND FOLLOW
US ON SOCIAL MEDIA (SEARCH “EASTLIFE”)
5

THURSDAY 16 JULY - SUNDAY 2 AUGUST
FOR AGES
UP TO 7
R A O LL F T N H E U F FA M ILY
TICKETS: £12.50 adult/£7.50 child, under 1s go free
BOOKINGS: 01603 283382/thegarage.org.uk
VENUE: The Garage, 14 Chapel Field North, Norwich, NR2 1NY
ALL
PRODUCTIONS
Supported by:

Contents
Contents
18
29
53
88
011 Around The Region
A round-up of the region’s news and
upcoming events.
018 Lifestyle
We take a look at what’s still to come despite
the COVID-19 outbreak.
029 Travel
Take a road trip through Norfolk and Suffolk
and discover the best of Essex.
043 Dog Friendly
Our ever present Tails About Town feature
and a round up of dog-friendly days out.
047 Education
We’re here to help you find specialist schools
for your children.
049 Little East
How to entertain little ones in the garden and
‘virtual’ farms.
053 Food & Drink
The latest restaurant openings, al fresco
dining and where to find the best afternoon
teas.
064 Health
Weekly park runs and walking.
069 Fashion
Summer style and sunnies.
072 Weddings
Helping you plan all the details for a
sustainable wedding.
075 Motoring
Sue Cooke reviews the new Fiat 500C.
077 Consumer
Martin Lewis brings us the latest news on
reducing your broadband bills.
080 Property
Top tips for an eco-friendly home, the trend
for shutters and how to maintain your garden
this summer.
092 Arts
A round-up of the region’s online exhibitions.
094 Area Focus
Plan a trip to the seaside and take a look at
some of our favourite towns and villages in
East Anglia.
130 Social Scene
A round up of what’s going on across our
popular social media channels.
7

ITS YOUR STYLE.
OWN IT.
Uncompromising style
at up to 60% off

A Few
Changes...
At the time of print the UK was in lockdown due to COVID-19. It has been
an almighty challenge to create the summer issue of Eastlife Magazine with
on-going closures and cancellations.
The eastlife team have worked hard to stay up to date with the changing
government guidelines and circumstances surrounding COVID-19.
You’ll notice that the calendar section and event listings have been
temporarily removed due to theatre and venue closures. Full listings will
reappear in the autumn issue if circumstances have changed.
The lifestyle section does include festivals, concerts and events which are
scheduled to go ahead as planned later this summer. This information was
correct at the time of print. Please check with the event organiser directly
before purchasing tickets or attending any event.
Though the content throughout the magazine offers inspiration for travel
and days out, this is purely to provide some light-hearted reading through
these difficult times and help you make plans for the future. It is important
to follow government guidelines at all times. The team urge you to practice
social distancing and to at stay home.
The summer issue will be available until the end of August, therefore there is
a chance you may be reading this copy when the situation has significantly
improved and we are able to enjoy our wonderful region once again.
You can find ideas for things to do at home and how to support local
businesses at www.eastlife.co.uk. Follow Eastlife’s social media channels
for up to date news.
Cancellations
It breaks our heart to have to write this, but due to current circumstances
many of this years’ events have been cancelled or postponed. The good
news is they’ll return in 2021, bigger and better. Here is an updated list:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Norfolk and Norwich Festival, cancelled. Ticket refund available.
All CAMRA beer festivals cancelled until end of June.
Holt Festival, cancelled.
Hertford Castle events; VE Day, Cars at the Castle, Fun Day and Open
Air Theatre, cancelled. Ticket refund available. However, the following
events will be rescheduled; Teddy Bears Picnic, Hertford Arts Trail and
Love Hertford Awards. New dates to be confirmed.
Cromer Carnival, cancelled.
Woburn Abbey Garden Show, cancelled.
Beccles Food and Drink Festival, cancelled. However, there’s good news,
organisers plan to host a ‘virtual’ festival on Facebook with an event daily.
Follow @becclesfoodanddrinkfestival
Duxford Air Festival, cancelled.
Classic Ibiza at Hatfield House and Blickling House, cancelled. Ticket
refund available.
Forest Live, cancelled.
Cambridge Folk Festival, cancelled.
11

Red River Country Park
DESIGN
YOUR OWN
BESPOKE
PROPERTY
Brand new and exclusive retirement park
Kingsman Farm Road, Hullbridge, Nr Hockley, Essex. SS5 6QB
Homes
From
£224,995
MONTE
CARLO
PARKS
Reasons to buy a
Monte Carlo Home
● No Estate Agent Fees
● No Stamp Duty
● 10 Year Goldshield Warranty
● Over 50s Retired &
Semi Retired Park Community
Full market value
given in part exchange
Through our Part Exchange Scheme we are able to offer
you 100% market value for your property so you don’t have
to worry about completing a sale before purchasing your
park home.
Thanks to this seamless transition you can also save the estate
agents fees and all the stress that goes with it, by selling your
property through us. Let us make your move a wonderful
experience so you can concentrate on all the important things
in life.
● 12 Month Residential Licence
● Part exchange scheme Available *
Exclusive Luxury Park Homes
● Beautifully designed luxury interiors
● Custom layouts tailored
to your requirements
● Private parking
● Fully landscaped gardens
● Modern and contemporary design
● Prices from £224,995
*Terms and conditions apply. The park homes advertised are on a first come first served basis
and limited availability. Picture for illustration purposes only.
This initimate park has just 33 plots that are now available.
Live your retirement dreams with Monte Carlo Parks.
Contact us today:
0330 133 1950
sales@montecarloparks.co.uk
www.montecarloparks.co.uk

What’s New
Outdoor Escape Room comes to Norwich
A new interactive outdoor escape experience is coming to
Norwich. The Big Escape sees teams move around the city’s
streets solving puzzles, cracking codes and completing challenges
to take down Big Al’s casino in a classic heist.
The GPS activated game can be played any time and has already
proved a success in Ireland with thousands enjoying the challenge
following its launch there late last year.
The creators of the gaming experience are established Dublin
company, Creative Events. Director, Mark French said: “As Norfolk’s
biggest city, it makes perfect sense to bring the game to Norwich.
It’s a great outdoor activity for teambuilding and exploring the city
in a fun way. We believe it will not only appeal to people who live
and work in Norwich but also to the huge number of visitors to the
city.”
The experience begins at St Peter Mancroft Church and journeys
around the city. There are plans to roll out the game to more than
50 locations.
Tickets cost £14 per person and can be booked at
www.thebigescape.com
Roll up! Roll up!
The circus is coming back to The Garage
‘My First Circus: Lessons of the Jungle Book’ is an interactive
musical adventure where the whole family can play along with
Mowgli and his friends.
Journey deep into the jungle in this latest theatrical adventure.
The jungle is being turned upside down with the arrival of a small
human child. Mowgli is being taught how to survive in the jungle,
by Baloo.
Book tickets at www.thegarage.org.uk
Image credit: Andi Sapey
13

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre
www.bressingham.co.uk
EVENTS ALL YEAR
check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900
for further details
Find us on Facebook & Twitter
just search for Bressingham Steam

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Gard
ADVERTORIAL
What’s On
at Bressingham Steam Museum
2020 Season Starts
Fri 27 Mar 2020
The first day of the main 2020 Season
www.bressingham.co.uk
Heritage Steam Gala
Fri 8 May 2020 to Sun 10 May 2020
A celebration of steam at Bressingham Steam Museum.
Bressingham Bricks
Sat 13 Jun 2020 to Sun 14 Jun 2020
An exhibition of LEGO models and displays from builders throughout the country.
1940’s Day
Sun 21 Jun 2020
A Celebration of Dad’s Army.
Steampunk Weekend
Sat 4 Jul 2020 to Sun 5 Jul 2020
A fabulous weekend of Norfolk punkery at BresSteam
East Anglia Garden Rail Show
Sat 8 Aug 2020
Trade Stands and Layouts Including Live Steam.
Steam in Miniature Weekend
Sat 8 Aug 2020 to Sun 9 Aug 2020
Miniature Models that pack a Steamy Punch.
DON’T MISS
Model Railway Day Sun 6 Sep 2020
Model Railway Exhibition featuring visiting layouts of a variety of scales and
gauges. Exhibition will also feature a number of trade stalls.
There really is something for everyone at Bressingham.
check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01
for further details
The unique Bressingham Gardens are renowned worldwide for their horticultural excellence.
With nearly 20 acres, four linking gardens and 8,000 species they can be a truly
tranquil place, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Find us on Facebook & Twitter
just search for Bressingham Steam
Take a trip on one of the four railways at Bressingham, the collection of working
locomotives will take you round our magnificent gardens and woodland, or ride on
the steam Gallopers. A trip to the locomotive sheds brings the power and the glory of
mighty steam engineering up close. The National Dad's Army collection lets you wander
through Walmington-on-Sea looking at original props and vehicles from the series,
you'd be a stupid boy to miss it!
Whether your passion is Gardens, Steam, Exhibits, Rides or even a mixture of them all,
we are confident that Bressingham has something for all, even Royal Coaches!

ADVERTORIAL
New
Retirement
Community
Opens in
St Albans
You may be thinking of moving home because of
life changes or to downsize. The expense of an older
property or simply freeing up equity of your existing
home may be pushing you to move on. In all these
cases Eywood House, might be right for you. This
development of modern retirement apartments was
opened by bpha housing association close to St Albans
City centre.
A lovely location
Situated in the St Julians area of St Albans, the new
apartments are surrounded by the residential streets.
A bus service to the city centre stops outside Eywood
House, providing access to local facilities.
Wellbeing in a retirement community
Founded in 1990, bpha has extensive experience
in running retirement developments. It prides itself
on providing independent living with a strong sense
of community and an improved quality of life for all
residents. In total bpha manage 25 retirement services.
They bring people together and run and support a wide
range of community activities.
Flexibility with personal care
With Abbots Care, you can rest assured that you or
your loved one are in the most trusted hands, within the
comfort of their own home. Residents can purchase care
for their specific needs but are welcome to use another
provider of their choice.
14

ADVERTORIAL
How much does it cost?
Well not as much as you might think. With the option
of shared ownership, buyers can acquire properties at
more affordable rates than they could otherwise.
Understanding how shared ownership works
By opting for shared ownership, prospective residents
can purchase a quality apartment at less than the
market value. This is possible thanks to bpha retaining
part ownership. “This is a great way to free up capital to
make life easier or to take up the opportunities in life that
wouldn’t otherwise be available,” say bpha.
Apartments at Eywood House are ready to move into
and are valued from £206,250 for a 75 per cent share,
with the remaining share owned by bpha. A monthly
service charge also applies and you will need to factor in
any care costs. Apartments are also available to rent.
Eywood House offers a range of amenities and facilities
on site including a communal garden and terrace
which will provide an opportunity for staff and residents
to meet, dine outdoors and participate in external
group activities. Residents can enjoy their privacy
and independence, with the reassurance of care and
support when necessary.
For more information visit eywoodhouse.co.uk
For more details on Eywood House, to view an
apartment, or if you would simply like to have an
informal discussion, please do get in touch with
bpha’s friendly sales advisor, Janet Bennett on
01727 617142
Sales are managed by bpha’s sales agency,
Domovo - domovohomes.co.uk
email sales@domovohomes.co.uk
Apartments are also available to rent.
For rental enquiries please call 03301 000272
15

LIFESTYLE
Sounds of
Summer
This article was written during COVID-19. At the time
of print all events included were scheduled to go
ahead, however please check dates before visiting
any event. Most events have announced a refund
policy if cancelled but check before booking.
It’s been a strange start to the
year, and though there have been
lots of events cancelled due to the
uncertainty of COVID-19, the latter
part of summer is still looking busy.
Newmarket Nights, 19 June – 29 August
A great summer event, the concerts feature a day of horseracing
at Newmarket Racecourse followed by live music from leading
musicians. This year the line-up includes The Script on 19 June,
Bryan Ferry on 26 June, Pussycat Dolls on 17 July, Tom Jones
on 24 July, Rick Astley on 31 July, Jack Savoretti on 7 August,
Alfie Boe on 14 August and McFy on 29 August.
www.newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk/newmarket-nights
Folk by the Oak, 20 July
The intimate and open air festival at Hatfield House has a great
buzzing atmosphere with a day of award-winning musicians and
inspiring new talent. The day also features crafts, workshops and
a creative family area. This year’s artists on the main stage are
Seasick Steve, Richard Thompson and Kate Rusby. The smaller
acorn stage will host acts Skinny Lister, The Local Honeys and
more. www.folkbytheoak.com
Maldon Festival, 20 June – 4 July
The festival is a celebration of arts and culture. Taking place in
the town centre and multiple venues, there’s a line-up of jazz,
classical, choral and orchestral music for concert goers. Open air
opera picnics will make for a lovely summer occasion and book
lovers can enjoy afternoon literacy readings.
www.maldonfestival.org.uk
Bedford Park Concerts, 31 July – 2 August
Enjoy an unforgettable summer’s evening in glorious Bedford
Park. On Friday listen to the Balearic sounds of Café Mambo Ibiza
in the Park. Saturday crowds can be serenaded by Paul Weller
and on Sunday a classical musical celebration will culminate
with rousing favourites for flag-waving and singing along,
including Rule Britannia and Land of Hope & Glory, as thousands
of lasers and fireworks light up the sky.
www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
Ampthill Festival Weekend, 3-5 July
Held in Ampthill Park, the three-day volunteer-run music festival,
will see festival-goers enjoy a weekend of live music and
entertainment. The festivities begin with AmpRocks on Friday.
The event is hugely popular so be quick to purchase tickets.
The weekend continues with AmpProms on the Saturday
with performances by household names, jazz, orchestras and
a firework finale. The weekend closes with the AmpGala on
Sunday. A free, no ticket required event, it’s a great family day
filled with fun, a lively parade, local bands and stalls.
www.ampthillfestival.com
Rock at the Castle, 2 August
A free music festival within the grounds of Hertford Castle. Live
music will be performed across three music stages featuring
acoustic, folk, indie, rock and pop music. There will also be a
bouncy castle, street food stands and bars at the event.
www.hertford.gov.uk/events/rock-at-the-castle-682
18

Maui Waui Festival
Image credit Jerry Tye
VW Whitenoise Festival, 20-23 August
VW Whitenoise Festival is set to return for its 17th year at the
Norfolk Showground, after five years at Euston Park. There will be
live music throughout the weekend with three music stages with
Judge Jules Live and a 10 piece live band performing classic
dance anthems, Europe’s Number 1 Beastie Boys tribute band,
Mark Morriss from the Bluetones and acclaimed Northern Soul
style from Smoove & Turrell. For the motoring enthusiasts, the
Show n’ Shine will take place on the Sunday. In addition, there’s
the ‘Ken Fox Wall of Death’, the world’s number one motorcycle
stunt show, and there’s also a funfair and inflatables, a free roller
skate rink, workshops, global food choices, local ales and drinks
together with an eclectic shopping village.
www.vwwhitenoise.com
Red Rooster, 4-6 September
If there’s one festival you should attend this summer, it’s Red
Rooster! The festival, which was rescheduled due to COVID-19,
celebrates the very best in rock’n’roll, blues, soul, roots and
country music. Located in the beautiful grounds of Euston Hall,
it’s a feast for the senses. Visitors can immerse themselves in a
truly Deep South weekend experience of music, food and culture.
This year’s headliners include Richard Hawley and Asleep at The
Wheel. A family-friendly festival, the weekend is laid back, with
a free and easy atmosphere where adults can relax and tuck
into great food while children can leap through the corn fields.
Dance the day away, by night come together for food around the
campfire under Suffolk’s shining stars, or continue the party with a
selection of DJs. www.redrooster.org.uk
FolkEast, 21-23 August
The rural and quirky event hosts a great line up of local and
international acts in the grounds of Glenham Hall. There are two
stages; Sunset and Mott Hall, both of which will host a number
of talented artists. Those looking to enjoy a full weekend of
performances can take advantage of the camping facilities.
www.folkeast.co.uk
Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival,
12-13 September
The famous Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival is a fantastic free
two-day event found on the historic South Quay. There are ships
to go aboard, live shanty folk music, fun street theatre exhibitions
and demonstrations for visitors to explore.
www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/maritime-festival
Maui Waui Festival, 28-30 August
The Maui Waui Festival gets bigger each year, with a three-day
programme of international music, performance and vibrant arts.
The festival brings together accomplished and undiscovered
bands and performers from all around the globe to Peakhill Farm
in Theberton, Suffolk. This year’s line-up includes Dub Pistols
and Peatbog Faeries. Goldie Lookin Chain will headline the
dance tent, with their comical wake of the rap scene. There are
also workshops, displays and shows in a dedicated circus tent,
small upbeat bands and acoustic acts, plus cabaret and comedy.
Highly regarded as one of the most family friendly festivals in the
region, the festival has hundreds of activities for children such
as circus acts, musical workshops, storytelling, crafts, wacky
races and more. Plus, children 13 years and under go free! New
for 2020, is Americana Day on 30 August with a special stage
hosting some of the country’s leading performers of country,
blues, bluegrass and American folk music.
www.mauiwauievents.co.uk
Retro Dub Suffolk VW Festival,
25-27 September
Enjoy a VW camping festival experience in the beautiful grounds
of Trinity Park. The atmosphere is laid back and the music is
great. A must for those looking for an easy-going weekend
festival. On Saturday enter your VW into a competition for a
chance to win a trophy – the coolest will win. There’s also a bike
show and shine!
www.retrodub-suffolk.co.uk
19

Your Big Day Out
Plan your big day out at www.thegalleria.co.uk
Plan your big day out at
www.thegalleria.co.uk
85 STORES, CAFÉS & RESTAURANTS 9-SCREEN CINEMA GET WILD KID’S PLAY
thegalleriahatfield
the_galleria

LIFESTYLE
The
Big
Screen
Watching a film under the stars is the ultimate summer
experience. Taking place in parks and stately homes across
the region, there are viewings of cult classics, musicals and
Hollywood blockbusters, so sit back and enjoy an evening with
friends at an outdoor cinema.
Luna Cinema, May to October
Multiple locations
This summer sees an extended programme with screenings of
‘Rocketman’, ‘Judy’ and ‘1917’ as well as returning fan-favourite
sing-alongs like ‘The Greatest Showman’, ‘Dirty Dancing’,
‘Grease’ and ‘Mama Mia! Here We Go Again’. There’s plenty of
space so you can enjoy the screening with a picnic, but gourmet
street food will also be available. New for 2020 is the VIP Sofa
package. This includes a luxury beanbag sofa for two, along
with a bottle of prosecco, popcorn and even a blanket to keep
you cosy as you watch the film.There are 150 venues in total,
but screenings in the East will take place at Audley End House,
Harpenden Common, Hatfield House, Hyde Hall, Highfield Park
St Albans, Holkham Hall, Hylands House, Knebworth House and
Wrest Park. To book tickets and for more information visit
www.thelunacinema.com
Sundown Cinema, June – September
Suffolk, Cambs, Herts & Beds
This year Luton Hoo, Mill Meadow Island Bedford, Putteridge
Bury, Shuttleworth House and Gardens, IWM Duxford, Hitchin
Lavender, Ashridge House, The Cricketers Weston, The Jockey
Club and Ickworth House all welcome Sundown Cinema.
Enjoy an evening in the great outdoors while watching recent
blockbusters such as ‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘A Star is
Born’, as well as classic films like ‘Dirty Dancing’ and ‘Top Gun’.
www.sundowncinema.co.uk
Enchanted Cinema, May/June – September
Gonville Hotel, Cambridge
The popular pop up cinema returns for another summer of
movies under Cambridgeshire skies. Watch well-loved films
such as ‘Dirty Dancing’, as well as recent hits like ‘A Star is Born’
and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ at the pretty inner city hidden garden
at The Gonville Hotel. There will also be older classics such as
‘Star Wars’, ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Rocky Horror’. With live music,
street food, a well-stocked bar, short films and garden games,
it’s the perfect event to soak up summer vibes. Films can be
watched in the comfort of deckchairs with cosy blankets and
hot water bottles and over-ear headphones for a fully immersive
experience. There may also be drive-in movies as social
distancing measures ease – watch this space!
www.enchantedcinema.co.uk
Essex Alfresco Cinema, June, July,
August, September and December
Promenade Park, Maldon
An unforgettable star filled movie experience within the pretty
setting of the Promenade Park in Maldon. The summer season
kicks off with an open air screening of ‘Aladdin’ on 27 June,
followed by ‘The Greatest Showman’ on 18 July, ‘Bohemian
Rhapsody’ on 1 August, ‘Frozen 2’ on 22 August and ‘Dirty
Dancing’ on 19 September. Outdoor cinema isn’t just for summer
though, this year film lovers can enjoy a drive-in cinema from the
comfort and warmth of their car at the park with screenings of
Christmas classics. Both ‘Home Alone 2’ and ‘The Grinch’ will be
shown on 12 December.
www.essexalfrescocinema.com
Open Air Cinema, 28 August
Hertford Castle, Hertford
There will be three screenings throughout the day. This includes
family favourites ‘Mona’ at 10am and ‘The Lion King’ at 1pm.
Tickets are a bargain at £3 and under 2s free. There will be an
evening performance of ‘Moulin Rouge’ at 6pm, tickets priced
£7. Spectators can bring along picnic chairs, snacks and sit back
to relax and enjoy movies underneath the sky.
www.hertford.gov.uk/events
21

LIFESTYLE
Staying indoors isn’t an option when the sun shines
so get outside and enjoy fun country pursuits
and plenty of flora with our pick of country and
gardening events.
Steam, Crafts & Country Life Fair,
8-9 August
Knebworth House, Herts
This fair isn’t just for motoring enthusiasts, there’s something
for the whole family. Steam and other vintage vehicles will
feature alongside entertaining displays, historical
re-enactments, a medieval village, children’s entertainers,
food and drink marquees and plenty of farmyard animals.
Don’t miss your chance to bottle feed the lambs! On the
Sunday the event will host the Companion Dog Show –
bring along your canine friend and have a go!
www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/knebworth-country-craftsteam-fair-august-2020
Fenland Country Fair, 25-26 August
Stow cum Quy Park, Cambridge
A celebration of Britain’s countryside, the jam-packed
programme of events includes demonstrations, displays,
rural crafts, sporting pursuits, vintage cars and tractors, a
gundog competition and more. There’s also the chance
to browse and shop national retailers of country clothing,
equipment and crafts, alongside locally grown produce.
This is one outdoor event not to be missed!
www.fenlandfairs.com
The National Flower Show, 11-13
September
Hylands House, Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex
The three-day event will be officially opened by TV’s George
Clarke and will celebrate the very best of gardening, home
and lifestyle. Hyland House and its gardens will be filled with
colourful inspiration, flowers and plants, to help you create
the perfect outdoor space.
www.nationalflowershow.co.uk
The Sandringham Game Country Fair,
12-13 September
Sandringham Estate, near King’s Lynn, Norfolk
One of the biggest country fairs in the region, visitors can
enjoy arena attractions, falconry, fishing, the shooting
village, steam and vintage vehicles, displays from working
dogs, a dog show, crafts and an impressive selection of food
and drink.
www.sandringhamgameandcountryfair.co.uk
Living Crafts, 8-11 October
Hatfield House, Hertfordshire
Enjoy a summery garden party atmosphere with Pimms, jazz
and live entertainment. The event is a great day out for craft
lovers with a showcase of hundreds of talented designmakers.
Browse, shop and watch craft demonstrations,
masterclasses and workshops.
www.livingcrafts.co.uk
et’s Go Outside
23

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Dead Ringer For Love Friday 2
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ODYSSEY - FRIDAY JULY 3RD
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THE DRIFTERS – 31ST JULY

LIFESTYLE
We all love a bit of bunting, especially when it’s
proudly hanging from cobbled coastal streets and
towns, so check out the coastal carnivals for this
summer.
Written by Liz Mattock
Wells Festival
Carnival week: Friday 31 July to Sunday 9 August
Carnival Day: Saturday 8 August
Every year Wells impresses us with its fun packed family
carnival and this year will be no different. There are live
music events, a gillying competition (that’s catching crabs),
fancy dress, food, drinks and even a sandcastle competition
on the beautiful blue flag Wells Beach. Most events are free
of charge but feel free to give a small donation as collection
buckets will be in circulation.
www.wellscarnival.co.uk/carnival-2020
Aldeburgh Carnival, 15-17 August
An award-winning carnival, it’s three days of non-stop family
fun on the Suffolk coast from Saturday 15 to Monday 17
August. The carnival has a long history, in fact its 170 years
old and one of the local events that the town is most proud
of retaining. Each day of the carnival has a theme, Saturday
is music day, Sunday a sports day and Monday is the official
Carnival Day with a full procession, bunting, music and
stalls. There will also be a Chinese lantern procession in the
evening as well as the town’s famous fireworks display.
Visit the website for the programme of events.
www.aldeburghcarnival.com
Felixstowe Carnival, 24-26 July
Carnival day: Saturday 25 July
A traditional, colourful and lively coastal carnival. It begins
with a Proms concert, a day of entertainment and a
procession on the Saturday. The activities continue into
Sunday and finish with a bang – a fabulous firework display!
www.felixstowecarnival.org
Maldon Carnival, 25 July – 1 August
Carnival day: 1 August
Expect to see carnival queens, colourful floats, majorettes
and marching bands proceed along the High Street at
the Maldon Carnival. There’s a week of activities and
entertainment in the lead up to the main carnival day on
1 August.
www.maldoncarnival.uk
Sheringham Carnival,
31 July - 11 August
Taking place in the town centre, there’s a whole week of
events featuring fun for all the family. Expect fancy dress, lots
of colour, sandcastles and of course a carnival queen!
www.sheringhamcarnival.com
25

Discover Britain’s foremost modern
sculptor at Henry Moore Studios & Gardens.
Explore Henry Moore’s studios, home
and sculptures in over 70 acres of glorious
countryside, plus a new exhibition
curated by Edmund de Waal looking at the
theme of touch.
Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE
www.henry-moore.org
01279 843333
3 APRIL - 25 OCTOBER 2020
WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS
& BANK HOLIDAYS 11AM-5PM
Registered Charity Number 271370
WALDEGRAVES
HOLIDAY PARK
THE PLACE TO
VISIT IN ESSEX
Do you know about us?
Waldegraves Holiday Park is set in a fantastic coastal
location, on the beautiful Mersea Island, with great touring
areas, static holiday homes for hire or sale to become an
owner of one! Facilitiese on-site are open to the public with
free parking in the main car park, so you don’t have to be a
guest staying at the Park to pay us a day or evening visit.
Facilities Include:
Our on-site facilities are open to the public, subject to availability.
• Entertainment Venue & Kids Club
• Restaurant & Sports Bar
• Crazy Golf & FootGolf
• Supermarket with Off Licence
• Play Areas & Games Room
• Fresh Water & Sea Fishing
• Outdoor Heated Swimming Pool
• Boat Slipway & Beach Access
• Pitch & Putt Course & Driving Range
For further information or to enquire, please visit our website
www.waldegraves.co.uk. Brochures can be requested online.
Alternatively, you can call us on 01206 382 898.
THE GRANARY RESTAURANT
Open daily from 9am and offers a superb selection of hot and cold meals taking advantage of the masses of
quality fresh produce local to Mersea Island. Whether you are planning dinner with friends or Sunday lunch
with family, visit Waldegraves and enjoy some quality time with those you love at The Granary restaurant.
Waldegraves Holiday Park, Waldegraves Lane , West Mersea, Essex CO5 8SE

The Great Outdoors
Get out in the fresh air and soak up the best green
spaces, woodlands and picnic spots the East of
England has to offer.
Ickworth House, Parkland and Gardens
The Rotunda, Horringer, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5QE
The impressive Rotunda is enveloped in 1,800 acres of parkland
and gardens where you can explore and discover something
new every season. During summer months Ickworth continues
its tradition of grand entertaining with outdoor theatre and
cinema. The walled garden is a great spot for a picnic while the
paths in the woods are ideal for a dog walk.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth
Hatfield House
Hatfield Park, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5NB
A gem in the Hertfordshire countryside, the estate offers plenty
for visitors to enjoy. The gorgeous gardens feature a number
of sculptures, creative landscape designs, colourful flora and
fauna, a maze and walkways. Surrounding woodlands offer a
choice of walks at varying lengths and the deer park is great for
wildlife spotting. www.hatfield-house.co.uk
Anglesey Abbey
Quy Road, Lode, Cambridge CB25 9EJ
A trip to this National Trust property is a great summer’s day
out. Admire the amazing collection of plants in the garden or
stretch your legs with a long walk. Explore the Cambridgeshire
countryside, passing waterways and the Quy Fen or opt for the
Anglesey Abbey Dog Walking Trail; a short walk which takes in
the countryside near the Abbey and the village of Lode.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey-gardens-andlode-mill
Kentwell Hall
Long Melford, Sudbury CO10 9BA
Explore this beautiful home which has been lived in for over 500
years. Most of the house can be viewed, while the extensive
gardens offer many ancient features including a moat, 17th
century walled garden and yews of a great age. The woods are
carpeted with seasonal flowers and there’s a ‘Wellie Walk Nature
Hunt’ perfect for a family day out – there might even be a few
puddles to jump in! www.kentwell.co.uk
Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden
School Road, South Walsham, Norwich NR13 6DZ
Escape the crowds and discover Norfolk’s beautiful countryside
with a visit to Fairhaven. Seasonal flowers bloom year-round,
but May is the best time to visit the bluebell woods. There’s
four miles of pathways to explore and a private broad which
operates daily boat trips. This is a great location for spotting
wildlife and enjoying nature. www.fairhavengarden.co.uk
Forest of Marston Vale
Bedford MK43 0PR
The area is made up community woods that come together
to form the Forest of Marston Vale which covers 61 square
miles. There’s a choice of walking routes, from short woodland
strolls to more challenging routes for ramblers. Cranfield and
Kempston woodlands offer a beautiful display of bluebells from
April to May. Some routes also cater for cyclists and horse riders.
www.marstonvale.org/Pages/Category/other-sites-in-theforest
27

More Than A Home,
It’s A Way Of Life.
Coastal | Rural | Woodland
Modern Retirement Living In East Anglia.
Having the time to do all those things you’ve been
wanting to do. Living in a brand new, fully furnished
home that has been designed by you. Enjoying a great
social life within a safe and secure community,
exclusively for the over 45’s*. Plus part exchange and
assisted move schemes to get you moved in quickly.
Life just got better!
Learn more about modern retirement living at one of
our parks across East Anglia.
*Dependent upon park rules. Contact us for confirmation.
To claim your FREE Beginners’ Guide to
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email info@tingdene.net
www.tingdene-parks.net

TRAVEL
Visit
North
Norfolk
Discover coastal towns and
cobbled villages with our guide
to North Norfolk
From lazy days on the beach to exploring
sleepy villages, North Norfolk is one of the
most popular holiday destinations in the UK.
Whether you’re visiting for a day, weekend or
longer, there’s plenty to see and do. To make
the most of the area, hop along the coastline
and explore each seaside town. We’ve given
you some ideas to help plan your trip…
29

Blakeney
A small village with a beautiful Quay, Blakeney is an attractive
destination with narrow lanes of flint cottages, traditional pubs,
a deli and medieval Guildhall. With opportunities for crabbing,
fishing, canoeing, birdwatching, yachting and sailing, it is a
popular base for a North Norfolk holiday. The location is ideal for
a romantic getaway and groups of friends.
It’s great for those who love to be outdoors, and a good starting
point for walks along the North Norfolk Coastal Path. From
Blakeney you can easily walk to neighbouring Cley-next-the-Sea,
Morston and Wiveton.
The area is home to an abundance of wildlife. It’s a firm favourite
with birdwatchers and artists. Blakeney Point also offers a wilderness
walk along dunes where rare terns make their nests in the
safety of the reserve. It has the largest coastal nature reserve in
England and Wales, including the National Trust owned
Blakeney Point, a 3.5 mile long sand and shingle spit, which is
home to colonies of common and grey seals. At high tide you
can take a boat trip from Morston Quay and get up close to the
seals as they bask on the sand.
Where to sleep
Book a luxury self-catering cottage with the help of The Blakeney
Cottage Company. They have a beautiful selection of homes
perfect for couples, friends and families in Blakeney and the
surrounding areas. From cosy cottages with fireplaces to stylish
open plan homes, you’ll find something to suit your holiday
needs. There are lots of dog-friendly properties too!
The Burnhams
The Burnhams is the name given to the villages grouped around
the River Burn on the North Norfolk Coast. The area is full of
pretty flint cottages, cosy pubs and lots of lovely walks. Visit the
likes of Burnham Overy Staithe on the coast, Burnham Thorpe,
Burnham Overy, Burnham Deepdale and Burnham Norton.
Burnham Market, known as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’ for its popularity
with visitors from London, is a small village made up of delightful
houses with colourful front doors, cottages and quirky shops
all situated around a green. With galleries selling antiques and
paintings, and stores with their food, fish and fashion, it is the
perfect destination for shopping, eating out or simply just chilling
and people watching.
If you’re feeling peckish, book a table at Socius; a stylish
restaurant serving delicious modern British Tapas!
Don’t miss out!
Visit Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale; a hub of independent
local retailers, home to the local tourism information centre,
bike hire, café and campsite on the farm next door! There are
regular pop up shops and two hugely popular annual markets;
the Deepdale Spring Market and Deepdale Christmas Market!
www.dalegatemarket.co.uk
Brancaster & Brancaster Staithe
The neighbouring villages of Brancaster, Brancaster Staithe and
Burnham Deepdale on the North Norfolk coast, line up along
the edge of Brancaster Bay and the offshore barrier island, Scolt
Head. Much of the beautiful coastline is sandy beaches, stretches
of Marram grass, saltmarsh and sand dunes and is owned by
the National Trust.
For great coastal views and wildlife follow the Norfolk Coast Path.
There’s also the 16km Brancaster Circular Walk, which is split
into two equal circuits, one west and the other east of Brancaster.
Wander around the pretty fishing village of Brancaster Staithe
with its sailing boats and marshes.
The area is a hotspot for those wishing to learn to sail, windsurf
or parasurf. Hire a paddleboard at North Norfolk Paddleboards or
kite surf at Brancaster beach.
If you’d prefer to stay dry, pick up freshly caught seafood from
The Crab Hut or Fish Shed and head to the beach for a picnic!
Book a table at The White Horse in Brancaster, which has
stunning views of the marshland and an outdoor terrace, perfect
for summer!
Holt
A beautiful Georgian town, Holt is a haven for artists, photographers,
walkers and tourists at any time of year. The pretty market
town of Holt is a Georgian gem of washed stone High Street and
flint lined yards harbouring a range of quality galleries, tea rooms,
pubs, antique shops and specialist food stores.
Take a walk at Holt Country Park, just south of the town. It’s a
100-acre woodland that hosts family events throughout the year
as well as offering way-marked walks for all abilities and boasts
a prestigious Green Flag award. The Holt North Norfolk Railway
Station lies just a short bus ride from the town centre, and from
here the famous ‘Poppy Line’ runs steam train services to the
popular seaside town of Sheringham.
For food, visit one of the many tearooms such as Byfords or the
Folly Tearoom, a local pub or take a trip to Back to the Garden; a
rustic well stocked farm shop with a café surrounded by beautiful
countryside.
30

Hunstanton
Hunstanton, or ‘Sunny Hunny’ as it is affectionately known, is the
ideal location for a seaside holiday with all the trimmings. Famous
for its striped cliffs, acres of sand and clear, shallow water,
Hunstanton also offers lots of fun attractions for all ages.
Hunstanton retains its Victorian character and remains a popular
holiday location for all ages but particularly families. Walk along
the River Hun, which begins in the grounds of Old Hunstanton
Park and Old Moated Hall, towards the coast. During nice
weather explore the town in the morning then spend a lazy
afternoon lying amongst the dunes.
It’s an ideal location for families with a sea life centre, land train
and watersports. Nearby Norfolk Lavender is worth a visit too; the
fields flower from July to August. The Bandstand on Hunstanton
Green hosts free musical performances from May to September!
If you’re visiting with your dog, check out Old Hunstanton Beach
and nearby Holme-next-the-Sea. Both are dog-friendly beaches
year round. Pick up doggy treats at the Old Town Beach Café,
you might even get on the doggy wall of fame!
Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells-next-the-Sea is no secret, but its expansive sandy beach
means there’s plenty of space to enjoy the area even during the
busiest months. The town is a network of narrow streets, old
alleys and yards. Along the cobbled streets you’ll find independent
retailers selling crafts, homewares and local produce. If you’re
staying at a self-catering rental stock up on goods at the nearby
Walsingham Farm Shop.
The area is home to one of the most famous and beautiful
beaches on this stretch of coast. Huge, sandy and backed by a
pine forest, it’s a great place to spend days lazing in the sunshine.
The colourful beach huts on stilts are iconic and some are even
available to rent. The beach is dog-friendly year-round making it a
fantastic destination for a family day out.
Sitting at the quay crabbing is a longstanding tradition for
holidaymakers at Wells-next-the-Sea. You can pick up a bucket
and crab line at one of the town’s souvenir stores. Seafood is
an abundance. Get it to go and eat on the beach or dine in at
the likes of Platten’s Fish & Chips, Wells Crab House and Sands
Restaurant.
A short distance from Wells is Holkham Estate; a stately Palladian
mansion, Bygones Museum, deer park and Holkham beach.
This part of North Norfolk forms part of the largest coastal nature
reserve in England and Wales, showing the estate’s dedicated
focus on conservation and sustainability. Learn more about the
area, wander the walled gardens, hop on a deer safari tour or hire
a boat on the lake.
Cley next the Sea
The picturesque village of Cley next the Sea lies just
east of Blakeney, on the River Glaven, in an Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visitors will find brick
and flint houses, narrow lanes and sea paths, art and
craft galleries including ‘Made In Cley’ selling pottery,
prints, jewellery and sculptures and specialist food
shops such as Cley Smokehouse. Visit the pub or
teashop, as well as Cley’s famous saltmarshes, one of
Britain’s premier birdwatching sites.
Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Cley Nature Reserve, on the
edge of the marshes and overlooked by a glassed
visitor centre, has an international reputation and is
popular with birdwatchers who come to see migrant
and wading birds. The views are stunning so make
sure you have your camera ready!
Buy fresh seafood at The Cley Smokehouse or
Cookie’s Crab Shop and find a quiet spot on the
beach. Alternatively, try the tasty pub grub at the
dog-friendly, nearby Salthouse Dun Cow.
Where to stay:
Cley Windmill; the 18th century mill is now a quirky
B&B and restaurant. Beyond the windmill there are
the paths and creeks of Cley Marshes to explore.
31

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Six delightful Four Star & Families Welcome Graded houses,
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pools, Steam room, Jacuzzi & Gym.
Superb quiet location within 300m/5 min flat walk of: Blue Flag
Lifeguarded Beach, Steam Railway, Theatre, Championship
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Stay in one of our 4 star & Families
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Gardens Café Events
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Walks open everyday
Gardens Weddings open late May & Parties
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Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Sundays 11am - 5pm
Walks open everyday
Gardens www.manningtonestate.co.uk
11th open Jul – late Children’s May Theatre September
Wednesdays, 22nd Thursdays, admin@walpoleestate.co.uk
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Discover
Suffolk
Whether you’re self-isolating in Suffolk, if so lucky you, or whether
you’re reading this at a time when we can venture outside once
again, surround yourself with natural beauty on the Suffolk coast.
Dunwich
If you’re looking for a beach without the crowds, this is the place
for you. Enjoy beautiful walks along the heathland and beach
year round. Dunwich is a tiny village, so don’t expect lots to do.
Fortunately, nature provides all the entertainment you’ll need.
The beach is dog-friendly year-round and is great for dogs
who love to run, play and splash. Parts of the beach are steep,
especially at high tide, but wonderful walks to Walberswick and
Southwold can be enjoyed.
If you love walking or cycling along quiet lanes, visit Dunwich
Heath. Take in the stunning scenery and spot the wildlife. It’s a
peaceful location and a great way to work up an appetite.
There’s the famous hotspots – Southwold and
Aldeburgh, but if you want to avoid the crowds,
check out our guide to some of Suffolk’s lesser
known gems.
RSPB Minsmere
A short distance from Dunwich, RSPB Minsmere is well worth
a visit. It’s home to an abundance of wildlife and some of the
UK’s rarest birds. There are a number of activities including a
Wild Zone for children. Regular events feature guided seasonal
walks, 4x4 safaris, pond dipping and even star gazing!
Felixstowe
Spend a day at the popular sand and shingle beach, complete
with a long promenade and perfectly kept seafront gardens.
Though the town offers the traditional attractions of a bustling
seaside town, peace and quiet can be found.
The viewing area at Landguard on the southern edge of the
town offers great views of container and passenger ships from
Felixstowe and Harwich harbours. North of the town centre is
the fishing village of Old Felixstowe and at the mouth of the
River Deben, the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry with its gallery, golf
course, cottages, boat yard and riverside inns. Here you can
explore coastal paths, see the Martello Towers, pick up fresh
fish, enjoy excellent fish and chips at the Ferry Café and catch
the small ferry boat across the estuary to Bawdsey.
34

Orford
Steeped in history, Orford is an attractive village dominated
by its impressive castle. Perhaps one of the quaintest
locations in Suffolk, the small fishing village makes a great
day out. It has plenty to offer those passing through, with
excellent walks and cycle rides for the more outdoorsy, and
plenty of good restaurants, pubs and tearooms for those
simply looking to relax and soak up the atmosphere. Brick
and timber buildings line the streets to the little quayside,
where there are boat trips to Orford Ness. Visitors can follow
a 5.5 mile route, which can be walked in total or in part along
the Reserve. For amazing views, climb to the top of English
Heritage’s Orford Castle! Don’t leave without trying the
locally cultivated oysters. Pick them up at Pinney’s of Orford
or dine-in at The Butley Orford Oysterage.
Pin Mill
On the banks of the River Orwell the hamlet of Pin Mill
is a haven of tranquillity, loved by artists, walkers and
birdwatchers. The 17th century Butt & Oyster Inn is so close
to the river that it can serve pints of ale through the window
to yachtsmen at high tide.
Thorpeness
Half holiday village, half architectural fantasy, Thorpeness
boasts a golf course, a chic art deco hotel and restaurant
and other attractions. The whole place is centred around the
Meare – an artificially created boating lake covering three
acres. Tiny islands on the Meare contain locations found
in J M Barrie’s Peter Pan, such as the Pirates’ Lair, Wendy’s
Home and many others. After an afternoon of boating enjoy
a meal and explore the stalls at the Thorpeness Brasserie
and Emporium.
Walberswick
Untamed and wild, Walberswick is a pretty little village. Think
windswept grassy dunes, shingle, sand and heathland
with old world charm. Despite being only a mile away from
Southwold, it is much quieter and an ideal location for those
who prefer a slower pace of life. The village has tearooms,
restaurants, public houses, an art gallery, original crafts and
gift shops.
The beach is one of Walberswick’s biggest draws. Great
for buckets and spades, it’s also dog-friendly year-round.
Walberswick is the acclaimed home of crabbing. Visitors
can still join in the fun, simply set yourself up on a jetty
or footbridge and see what you can catch! You can visit
neighbouring Southwold with either a walk along the
riverbank or by hopping on the foot ferry that operates
during the summer months.
Enjoy a long weekend or extended stay with Suffolk
Secrets. The company have beautiful cottage rentals
available for all, throughout the Suffolk Coast and inland
at some of the county’s cute towns and villages.
Bookings are being taken from 4 June 2020.
www.suffolk-secrets.co.uk
35

Seaview splendour
Pet friendly pads
Romantic
retreats
Big houses for big gatherings
the choice is yours!
With a collection of over 750 holiday cottages, you’re spoilt for choice.
Visit www.suffolk-secrets.co.uk or give us a call on 01502 722717
EXPERIENCE THE
HOME OF HORSERACING
Guided Tours
Experience the magic of Newmarket’s
famous gallops, go behind the scenes at
some of the most prestigious training yards
and studs in the world or enjoy a guided
tour of the National Heritage Centre for
Horseracing and Sporting Art. Whether a
racing enthusiast or a lover of history, food
or art, our range of public and bespoke
tours provide memorable experiences.
Check out our website for a full list of
available dates and tours on offer.
Discover Newmarket offer visitors a unique opportunity
to go behind the scenes at racing’s headquarters to see
equine stars at work and learn about the fascinating
history, heritage and culture of the town.
discovernewmarket.co.uk
@DiscoverNKT discovernewmarket @discovernkt

THE SUFFOLK PUNCH TRUST
We breed Suffolk Horses
Enjoy a day out on the farm...
• Meet our beautiful rare breed
horses
• Enjoy guided horse & wagon
or tractor & trailer rides
• Tailor group catering to your
requirements
• Relax in the Suffolk Heritage
Garden
• Rekindle memories in the
museum
• Treat yourself to some retail
therapy in our Gift Shop
• Fully accessible facilities
The Suffolk Punch Trust, St David’s Lane, Hollesley, Woodbridge. IP12 3JR
www.suffolkpunchtrust.org info@suffolkpunchtrust.org 01394 411327
The ideal base from which to explore the stunning Suffolk coast
and countryside, or just relax and put your feet up.
www.cakesandale.co.uk
reception@cakesandale.co.uk | 01728 831655 | Abbey Lane, Theberton, Suffolk IP16 4TE

Things
to do in
Essex
Get out and make the most of
the incredible spaces on your
doorstep and beyond
This year, Explore Essex set a 2020 challenge to get people out and
about in the county. The aim was to tick off 20 things on a long list
of things to see, do and discover across Essex. COVID-19 may have
made the challenge a bit more difficult but as people emerge from
self-isolation this is a great way to make the most of the outdoors.
Are you up for the challenge? Everyone who completes 20
challenges will be awarded with a certificate. To share images of
you and your family taking part in the challenge simply hashtag
#ExploreEssexChallenge and you could win an Explore Essex hamper
which includes a £50 gift card to Braintree Village.
Which challenges will you choose?
• Capability Brown was one of the UK’s top landscape architects. Can
you find the pond he designed at Belhus Woods Country Park?
• Swoop and soar on the Sky Ropes at Great Notley County Park
• Research your family history at the Essex Record Office in
Chelmsford
• Follow the Gruffalo trail in the Deep Dark Wood at Thorndon North
Country Park
• Get on your bikes! Try mountain biking at the site of London 2012
at Hadleigh Park
• Blow away the cobwebs and build a sandcastle on the beach at
Cudmore Grove Country Park
• Explore the permanent exhibition at Jaywick Martello Tower,
discover more about the history of our coastline defences
• Take a photo in the Cloud Hammocks on the Stick Man trail at
Weald Country Park
• The ancient woodlands of Essex are hundreds of years old. Explore
the ancient woodland at Danbury Country Park and take a guess at
how old the trees are?
• Take a photo of something that inspires you and share it using the
challenge hashtag
• See the stunning migratory flocks of Brent Geese arriving on Essex
shores from Russia at Cudmore Grove during the winter months
• Watch a film in a new environment. Outdoor cinema anyone?
• Visit the historic Cressing Temple Barns
38

• Find the ducks at Danbury Country Park lakes; can you spot a
Mallard or a Teal?
• Try geocaching! Explore the beautiful surrounds of a Country
Park with GPS technology, what treasures will you uncover?
• Find at least five different species of trees in the Country Parks
• Treat your furry friend to the dog activity course at Thorndon
South, or the dog agility course at Belhus Woods; there’s jumps,
hoops and ramps to enjoy
• Draw a picture of your favourite place in Essex and share it
with Explore Essex
• Spot the magnificent deer at Weald Country Park. Buy food
from the visitor centre and feed them through the chutes
• Fly a kite high in the sky at one of Essex’s Country Parks.
Hadleigh, Cudmore Grove, Weald and Thorndon South have
plenty of open spaces to enjoy the fresh air.
• Explore the Flitch Way and follow the former railway line by
foot or bicycle
• Go to the panto at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester
• Take in the views across London by walking across Old
Thorndon Pastures (from Thorndon South)
• Join a fun Park Run at one of the Country Parks. Most parks
host Park Runs and they take place every Saturday at 9am
• Visit the new permanent artwork by internationally-acclaimed
artist, Henry Driver in the Wheat Barn at Cressing Temple Barns
• Join a volunteer group! Get more involved with local places
and parks
• Make a bird feeder and see which birds you can attract to your
garden
• Take a walk around the lake at Thorndon South
• Hunt for fossils on the beach at Cudmore Grove Country Park,
but be careful not to disturb the cliffs
• Find the grazing sheep and goats at Thorndon North. Top tip:
call into the visitor centre to find out where they are likely to be
• Visit the Chelmsford Museum at Oaklands Park in Chelmsford
and detect some ancient coins
• Learn to read a map and follow a route through a Country Park
• Play a game of rounders or cricket
• Find five different types of leaves or flowers
• Visit the Antony Gormley exhibition at the Firstsite art gallery
in Colchester
• Come and enjoy the great outdoors at Family Forest School,
gather round the camp fire and so much more
• Hug a tree
• Make a bug house
• Get on your bikes! Take a cycle ride in one of the Country
Parks, you can hire bikes from Trailnet at Thorndon Country Park
or Hadleigh Park Cycles
• Taste three different types of chocolate
• Bring your magnifying glass and go on a bug hunt, remember
to count how many mini beasts you find
• Have a go at parkour in the special activity area at Hadleigh
Park
• Write a poem about your favourite place or green space
• Join a nature walk
• Visit the house of the Captain of the famous Mayflower ship,
Christopher James, in Harwich
• Walk up the Belvedere mound to the remains of the folly at
Weald Country Park
• Build a den
• Paint a pebble and gift it to a friend
• Read a book during half term
• Can you spot the fabulous Snow Bunting
along the foreshore at Cudmore Grove? The bird
is scarce in the UK but can be spotted during the
autumn and winter months
• Discover the hidden Victorian Ice House and
find out how food was once kept chilled at
Danbury Country Park
• Go to the theatre or a music concert
• Attend a session at one of the Essex Outdoors centres during
half term
• Go stargazing! Look up into the night sky and see if you can
make out any constellations
• See and smell the sensory garden at Thorndon North (close to
the visitor centre)
• Watch or join the mud run in Maldon
• Enjoy a family picnic
• Climb a tree
• Try your hand at bark or leaf rubbings
• Bring your binoculars and watch Kingfishers and Little Grebes
from the bird hide at Childerditch Pond, Thorndon North
• Go for a swim
• Attend an Essex 2020 STEAM event this year.
• Make a campfire (*only available in Country Parks during
Forest School and education sessions)
• Go for a jog in a park, get some green exercise
• Visit your local ‘Summer of Art’ trail or travel to somewhere new
to take in theirs
• Play hide and seek in the woods (but make sure not to lose
sight of your parents/children altogether)
• Visit the Blackwater Estuary from Cudmore Grove Country
Park and look for Grey Seals or catch a ferry from Brightlingsea
• Feed the birds
• Discover what lies beneath your feet! Many of the Country
Parks have geology trails, what can you find?
• Take a walk around Danbury Country Parks beautiful Victorian
Lakes
• Try orienteering! There’s a special course at Belhus Woods
Country Park, Great Notley Country Park and Weald Country Park
• Meet the peacocks at Weald Country Park
• Spot three different insects and find out their names
• Toast marshmallows (*only available in Country Parks as part
of a Forest School and education sessions)
• Read a book in the woods
• Skim stones on the foreshore of Cudmore Grove
• Take a torch, wrap up warm and enjoy a night walk at one of
the Country Parks
• Kick-up the autumn leaves
• Stand still and listen to the bird song, add audio to the Essex
Sounds map
• Try and capture a wild animal in a photograph, such as a
squirrel
• Attend the ‘Green Festival’ at Great Notley Country Park this
summer
• Don your wellies and take a stroll in a stream or seashore
• Exploring fungi is fun! Try and identify three different species
39

On
the
Water
There’s nothing more satisfying than being by
the water on a hot sunny day. It’s even better if
you can dip your toes and cool off! Escape the
coastal crowds and opt for a lazy day on the river.
40

River Cam
The village of Grantchester is one of those picture perfect
quintessential English villages. Cobbled cottages sweeping
with wisteria, a beautiful church, plenty of green space and
a few fabulous welcoming pubs. During the summer, its
biggest attraction is the River Cam which runs through the
meadows.
The banks are the perfect spot for a picnic, ball games or a
dog walk, while the river comes to life with children swinging
from the rope swing, swimmers braving the murky water,
paddle boarders and punts. Punts can be hired at various
points along the bank.
River Orwell
The River Orwell offers some of the best views of Suffolk.
Experience the surrounding landscape and head to the
Nacton Picnic Site. Find a quiet spot, sit back, relax and
watch ships navigating the narrow channel up river to
Ipswich.
River Stour
For a sense of escapism visit Dedham Vale; an Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s clear to see why this was
inspiration for artists Constable and Gainsborough, there’s
beauty at every turn. The village is lined with pastel coloured
cottages, the landscape is dreamy and the River Stour
provides a haven for picnics, paddleboards and punts.
Laze along the banks or stop for a bite to eat at one of the
riverside pubs for lunch with a view.
River Lea
This river forms part of the boundary between Essex and
Hertfordshire. Beginning in the Chiltern Hills (a fantastic
walking location), it flows south east before meeting the
River Thames. Follow the Lea Valley Walk from Hertford to
Broxbourne taking in sights of barges, historic malt buildings
and tree lined banks. If you fancy navigating the waters
and locks yourself, head to the Lee Valley Boat Centre in
Broxbourne, where you can hire a day boat.
River Great Ouse
Discover the River Great Ouse with a trip to Bedford. Enjoy
this stretch of water with a walk along the pretty tree-lined
Embankment. Here you’ll find a number of riverside pubs,
perfect for a Pimms in the sunshine. Ouse Valley Way offers a
number of walks that follows the flow of the river. Try walking
upstream from Bedford which leads to Turvery, Sharnbrook
and Stevington or walk from Bedford to Great Barford.
41

Book your Perfect Suffolk Escape
“Ideally located to explore Suffolk’s heritage coast”
Self Catering Cottages and Studios
& Caravan and Motorhome Club CL
Come along and visit Lee
Valley Boa
Broxbourne Valley Boat in Centre the heart at of Lee Valle
and Broxbourne experience in the a boat heart trip of along the
on Lee the Valley River Regional Lee. Whether Park you prefe
day and or experience just an hour a boat on the trip river or en
cruising along the along, tranquil all parkland tastes are catered
Situated on the River midway Lee. Whether between you Enfield prefer and to spend Hertford just off
A1170 the day where or just you an hour will on find the free river parking or enjoy opposite a the Bo
For meal further while cruising information along, please all tastes visit are our catered websites: for.
www.leevalleyboats.co.uk Come Come along along and visit and Lee visit & www.riverleecruises.c
Valley Lee Valley Boat Boat Centre Cent at
Call
Situated
us Broxbourne on
midway
01992
between
Broxbourne 462085 in the in heart
Enfield
or the email heart of
and
Lee leevalleyboats@bt
Hertford
of Valley Lee Valley Regional
just off the A10 on A1170 where you will find Regio
and experience and experience a boat a trip boat along trip along the tranquil the tranqu par
free parking opposite the Boat Centre.
on the on River the River Lee. Lee. Whether Whether you prefer you prefer to spend to sp
For further day or information
day just or an just hour please
an on hour the visit
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river or enjoy or enjoy a meal a m
cruising cruising along, along, all tastes all tastes are catered are catered for. for.
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& Call us Call on us 01992 email
on 01992 462085 leevalleyboats@btconnect.com
462085 or email or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.co
Mollett’s Farm, Main Road, Benhall,
Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1JY
+44 1728 604547
www.molletts.com bookings@molletts.com
Sponsor a Redwings
rescued horse
Sponsor a rescued
horse or donkey from
as little as £15 a year
and you’ll receive
an adoption pack
including your new
friend’s story and a
stunning photo, plus
access to their online
diary.
Do your little ones like horsing around?
Trot over to our website and check out the
Young Reds At Home Academy!
www.redwings.org.uk/adopt
01508 481000
INGATESTONE HALL
Hall Lane, Ingatestone,
Essex CM4 9NR
(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.)
16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
on Wednesday, Sunday and Bank
Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.)
from EASTER SUNDAY until
the END OF SEPTEMBER
Adults - £7* Pensioners - £6
Children (over 5) - £3
FORTHCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS
Jun 11 THE COMEDY OF ERRORS
Jun 20 CONCERT - Bravissima
Jul 4
JAZZ CONCERT
Jul 19 CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Jul 25/26 ESSEX MILITIA RE-ENACTMENT
Jul 31-Aug 2 FLOWER FESTIVAL
Tel. 01277 353010
Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk
Website: www.ingatestonehall.com

DOG FRIENDLY
Tails
About
Town
A Cocker spaniel
and Coronavirus
Written by Emma Kemsley
“How do you explain to a
hyper dog that he is only
allowed one walk a day?
you can’t,
It’s impossible!”
When the government announced the self-isolation measures, I
wasn’t worried for my own safety, I was terrified about how strict
the rules would be with regards to dog walking. If Boris imposed
a similar 50m boundary of the home rule like Italy and Spain, my
life would become hell. How would I entertain a crazy cocker
spaniel? He would be bouncing off the walls…literally!
Thankfully, as I type, it hasn’t quite come to that. We’re still
allowed one walk a day. However, Fletcher likes his routine. The
morning starts with a belly rub, long walk then breakfast. We
play ball around 11am followed by a second long walk at 1pm,
dinner at 2.30pm, another walk occasionally around 6pm, playing
at 8pm, then bed by 9pm. Since my husband and I started selfisolating,
the routine has been turned upside down, much to
Fletcher’s confusion.
We’re fortunate enough to have miles of country walks on our
doorstep. I never usually see anyone on our dog walk, and if I do
see someone without a dog, I’m convinced they’re a murderer.
Recently though, more and more people are appearing on our
route as everyone becomes desperate to make the most of their
daily exercise allowance.
My husband walks Fletcher in the morning and I take the
afternoon shift. Wanting to avoid people as much as possible, I’ve
been exploring new routes and Fletcher’s loving the new sights
and smells. He found his biggest stick yet, which ensured we had
our two-metre distancing covered. How he carried and balanced
a two-metre-long branch for at least a mile baffles me. On the
same day, he also got stuck in a sheep pen. Don’t worry, there
were no sheep around. He slipped through the fence but he
couldn’t figure how to get back out, so I had to rescue him.
To keep Fletcher entertained we’ve been playing ‘chase the
stone’ on the drive. I throw a stone and he chases, finds it, picks it
up, drops and repeats. It amazes me how he can find the stone I
threw amongst thousands of others. We’ve also played hide and
seek to pass the time, which basically consists of my husband
and I hiding in a wardrobe while Fletcher runs around trying to
find us. It’s great for mentally stimulating a spaniel!
One of my biggest concerns is the lack of chicken available in
supermarkets. Fletcher refuses to eat his grain without a topping
of chicken…spoilt I know! I tried the frozen chicken you get in a
bag, but it wasn’t good enough for him. He flicked it out of his
bowl in disgust. We’ve had to temporarily switch to an order of
Barking Heads meat packs which seems to be doing the trick...
for now. I don’t know what we’ll do when the Markies biscuits and
Dentastix run out!
43

DOG
FRIENDLY
Doggy
Days
Out
Let your furry friend get in on the action with a fun
doggy day out designed especially for them.
If you’re looking for a new way to exercise and stimulate your dog,
take a look at our top pick of secure fields, agility courses and dog
swimming pools for hire across the East.
Foxes Farm Fields
Owned by a husband and wife duo, and hosts of an annual pumpkin
patch, corn maze and Christmas tree cabin, Foxes Farm Fields has
two locations in Essex where your dog can run safe and free. Both
Colne Engaine and Upminster offer secure fields with a picnic bench,
shelter and dog agility equipment.
www.foxesfarmfields.co.uk
Bounce Dogs Fun Agility
Based in Writtle, Essex, this is a great location if your dog needs
mental stimulation. Agility sessions are held on Saturday with lots of
equipment for pooches to enjoy. Dogs do have to be over 12 months
to use the agility course, but there’s also a secure dog field for hire.
www.bouncedogs.co.uk
44

Dog Walking Field in Great Dunmow
This four-acre field is available for sole use with up to five dogs, or as
an opportunity to socialise with other dogs. The field is a good option
for dogs who struggle to be off lead in public. Think of it as a mini play
group for improving social interaction. Socialisation classes are also
available, as well as rehabilitation and canine hydrotherapy which is
located next door. There’s a fun agility course in the summer too!
www.dunmowhydrotherapy.co.uk
www.dogwalkingfields.com
Dolly’s Dog Field
Located in Wicken Bonhunt, near Saffron Walden, the secure dog field,
complete with a 6ft fence on all sides which is also buried to stop mini
escapists, is a fun day out for dogs who want to run free. It’s ideal for
puppies, elderly, reactive or dogs recovering from illness. It can also be
hired for doggie birthday parties!
www.dollysdogfield.co.uk
Canine Dip and Dive at Wyverstone
If you want a safe swimming environment for your dog, it doesn’t get
any better than this. Choose from their services which include puppy,
senior and pool party sessions. Have a nervous dog? No need to worry,
you can book the pool all to yourself so your dog can enjoy swimming
without the worry of other dogs.
www.caninedipanddiveclub.co.uk
Canine Aqua Splash
A great way to keep your dog fit and healthy, jump into this indoor pool
together with your dog. Located in Elstree, Hertfordshire, it’s a great
opportunity to bond and for your dog to practice their swimming skills.
Both group and private sessions are available.
www.canineaquasplash.com
Canine Dip & Dive Barkway
Set in the Hertfordshire countryside, dogs can enjoy a 30-minute
swimming and diving session. There’s plenty of toys to play with in
the pool and owners are welcome to get in too. There’s also a secure
dog field and agility equipment for dogs who prefer to stay dry. The
swimming pool is open April to October.
barkwaydogpark.as.me
Puppy Paddocks
Though the name might suggest, this isn’t just for puppies. All dogs are
welcome to let off steam at the secure field, in Barford, near Norwich.
There are three paddocks included in the hire rate. The ‘sheep field’ is
used for secure running, the ‘smaller paddock’ is full of equipment such
as tyres and obstacles for mental stimulation and the ‘runaway’ is a
sensory experience full of trees, shrubs and herbs.
www.puppypaddocks.co.uk
Suffolk Run Free
Located in Monks Soham, this is an exciting day out for all dogs. There’s
six acres to explore within the safety of 6ft fencing. Dogs will love ruffling
through the toy box, sniffing around and cooling off in the paddling pool.
www.suffolkrunfree.co.uk
61 45

The
Judith Fox
Ballet School
The Judith Fox Ballet School likes to
introduce a love of ballet to as many
children as possible.
The emphasis being on enjoyment, but with
a serious side for those who would like to
go on to vocational school and a possible
career in the dance world. Students have
been accepted in top schools and gone on
to a professional career.
Classes take place throughout the week,
with the youngest on Saturday mornings
when full of beans.
Adult classes (good excercise)
in ballet, tap, street.
The Foxes, Tuttles Lane East, Wymondham,
Norfolk, NR18 0EW
Tel: 01953 607235
Explore, visit, take part and connect
with Creative Hertfordshire
www.creativehertfordshire.com
You’re a click away from a county full of possibilities
Find out what’s on, what to do, where to go and how to take
part across Hertfordshire. Dance, make, sing, visit – Creative
Hertfordshire is the one website that’s got it all covered. All
you need to do is sign-up for our regular news alerts - it’s quick,
easy, and FREE. Are you a creative individual, organisation
or business? Showcase your work, expand your network and
attract new customers by creating a free online profile.
Visit www.creativehertfordshire.com now and start
discovering a county full of possibilities.
Because one site is all you need to get creative.
Judith Fox 1/4.indd 1 15/2/12 10:15:11
#OPENROAD
ATTENTION YEAR 10s
OPEN EVENING FOR SEPTEMBER 2021 STUDY
WE WOULD ALSO LOVE TO SEE YEAR 9s!
FAMILY & FRIENDS WELCOME
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR
MORE INFORMATION,
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
AND RECEIVE UPDATES
WWW.LONGROAD.AC.UK
LONG
OPENROAD
EVENING
Where are you headed after Year 11?
At Long Road Sixth Form College, there’s lots of choice: A levels, practical Diplomas, a mix of
the two or GCSE re-sits. Whichever direction you take, as a member of our friendly, city-based
community you can develop the skills, independence and focus you need to keep moving forwards.

EDUCATION
Specialist
Schools
We all have our talents. If your child is showing extra promise within sports or the arts,
they could benefit from a school that can help shape and develop their skills. Throughout
the region there are a number of independent schools and colleges, available for full time
boarding, lessons or weekend opportunities. We’ve pulled together a handy list:
Tring Park School for The Performing Arts
Mansion Drive, Tring HP23 5LX
Lights, camera, action! The school offers opportunities for those that show talent within
dance, acting, musical theatre and commercial music as well as providing academic
education.
www.tringpark.com
Judith Fox Ballet School
The Foxes, Tuttles Lane, Wymondham NR18 0EW
Perfect for little twinkle toes. The school offers ballet and tap-dancing lessons at their
purpose-built studio. Classes take place every evening and Saturday.
www.judithfoxballetschool.co.uk
King Slocombe School of Dance
8 Emmanuel Road, Cambridge CB1 1JW
The oldest and largest dance school in Cambridge. There’s a strong focus on ballet
but students can also learn tap and modern theatre dance. Many students go on to
successfully perform in the West End, Broadway and TV.
www.kingslocombe.com
Herts Music Service
From beginners to improving musical talent, there are a wide range of lessons and
courses available. Lessons in most instruments are available as well as singing and song
writing.
www.hertsmusicservice.org.uk
Trestle Arts Base
Russet Drive, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0JQ
Run by the Trestle Theatre Company and community groups, the venue offers classes
for all ages. There’s a School of Drama, dance lessons, ballet for tiny tots, choirs and life
drawing, alongside regular gym classes such as yoga and Pilates.
www.trestle.org.uk
47

Discover a world of hidden treasures
at this family-friendly museum
Rolling programme of special exhibitions, activities and events
Ancient Egypt • Archaeology
• Ceramics and Glass • Costume and Textiles
• Furniture and Woodwork
• Geology • Local and Social History
• Natural History • World Cultures
SAFFRON WALDEN MUSEUM
Museum Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BN
(01799) 510333 museum@uttlesford.gov.uk
www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org
Entrance Fees: Children (18 and under) FREE, Adults £2.50, Discounts £1.25, Season Tickets £8.00 and £4.00
Opening Hours: March – October: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm – 5pm)
November – February: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4.30pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm – 4.30pm)
With permission of EDP - credit Simon Finley
Your legacy can help EACH be there for future generations,
helping every child make the most of life – no matter how short.
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a1120 EACH half pg Legacy Ads UPDATE 0002.indd 1 07/06/2018 11:50

Mum’s
The
Word
LITTLE EAST
Garden
Days
Written by Dolly Osborne
www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com & @Osborneosaurus
At the time of writing this the UK is just commencing lockdown
following the outbreak of COVID-19. I must admit (probably to
the horror of my editor) that I’ve been scratching my head about
what to write, because envisioning the idyllic British summer in
the face of crisis feels almost impossible.
Gazing at the blinking cursor I was left with only the sounds
drifting through my open window. I could hear birds singing and
lawnmowers rumbling, and I thought how many of us are lucky
to have the sanctuary of an outside space.
Englishmen (and women) have a long-lasting romance with their
gardens; indeed, if an Englishman’s home is his castle then his
garden becomes his much-loved Kingdom.
An outside space can be many things to many people. I remember
my grandparents’ garden; they were keen horticulturalists
and their garden was composed of many well-tended and
diverse beds of plants with pathways of grass separating them
out. My grandparents’ garden was small, probably no bigger
than the backyard of the average British semi, but to me those
pathways were a maze, and upon those pathways my
adventures took place.
If, like me, your fingers are more inclined to be blue than green
you might think that an outside space that can inspire your little
ones is an impossibility. However, never underestimate the
power of a child’s imagination. A muddy, untended bit of soil can
become the source of ingredients for your child’s mud kitchen.
Dig out old pots and pans, bowls, moulds and a wooden spoon
(and probably some old clothing) and your child could make
mud pies fit for a King.
Perhaps, again like me, your outside space is mostly just that:
space; and outdoor play equipment could seem out of your
budget but with a child that space can still be a playground.
Aside from the traditional ‘jumpers for goalposts’, a stretch of
grass could be just the place to host a grand teddy bear’s picnic
or to lay out a maze or obstacle course using everyday objects
from inside the house.
Although a treehouse or Wendy House may be your child’s real
estate dream, in the absence of these, a wonderful fortress can
be built with a few chairs and blankets. Or if you are housing
teens under your roof then a couple of outdoor beanbags and
a wireless speaker can tempt them out of their rooms to top up
their vitamin D with minimal effort.
Of course, one of the best uses for our summer garden is to
unwind once the little darlings are in bed so don’t forget to
reserve a spot for a comfy seat and a glass or two of Pimms.
Enjoy your summer!
49

LITTLE EAST
Virtual Farms
Visit your local farm without leaving home
Written by Rebecca Smith
Times are very strange indeed, but life goes on, or in the
case of local farms, life begins as normal. Here is our round
up of some of the regions farms who would normally be
buzzing with visitors at this time of year but have decided
to go virtual. Of course, you may well be reading this when
the lockdown is over, in which case, the farms will be
reopen so pop along and support your local attractions.
I sat scrolling through last year’s posts on Eastlife Magazine
working out which ones to schedule online and was saddened
to see our annual post for Farm Open Days. I knew only too
well none of the farms would be open for many weeks, maybe
months to come. Imagine my delight when I then went onto
social media to show our support and saw one farm after
the other posting videos, short clips, photos and answering
children’s questions about farm life. I just knew we had to share.
So, here is our ever-growing list of virtual farms and I’ve even
snuck a zoo in too for added feel-good vibes.
Farmer Tom – Cambridgeshire
Have the kids got questions about farms, farm life and where do
animals come from? Never fear, ask Farmer Tom! We’ll let Tom
do the talking here: “We’ve been running #FarmerTime on our
farm for the past three years. We’re paired with a class about
200 miles away and once a fortnight we have a video call with
them. We tell them about life on the farm, and they ask questions
related to what they’ve been learning at school about food,
about farming, and the countryside, and lots more! Now schools
are closed the questions are left unanswered, so please send
your small person’s question by video or in text on the comments
with the tag #AskFarmerTom and I’ll do my best to answer them,”
he says.
For more daily info on Farmer Tom and his virtual farms comings
and goings head over to his social media pages at
www.facebook.com/FarmerTomUK and
twitter.com/Farmer_Tom_UK
Jimmy’s ‘Virtual’ Farm - Suffolk
Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich, IP9 2AR
We’re sure you recognise this celebrity farmer; Jimmy Doherty
had a vision to use traditional free-range meat production to rear
British rare breeds, and so The Essex Pig Company was born.
The farm is now host to over 300 rare breed pigs, a working farm,
wildlife park, adventure play, shops, gardens, restaurant, a farm
shop and butchery. Despite these difficult times Jimmy’s Farm is
keeping spirits up and has created a downloadable activity book
for children and Jimmy himself is currently posting educational
and fun video’s daily of the farm and animal antics on his popular
Instagram account. Visit www.jimmysfarm.com
Herrings Green Activity Farm –
North Bedfordshire
Cotton End Road, Wilstead, Bedfordshire, MK45 3DT
One of the UK’s largest collections of birds of prey with of over
200 birds on display, Herrings Green Activity Farm is a family
50

run business caring for all its birds and animals around the
clock. This time of year, the farm would normally be bustling
with energy and visitors getting up close to the birds including
American Bald Eagles and African Fish Eagle, Falcons, Hawks
and Owls. The farm also have other slightly unusual animals
including a raccoon dog and a skunk and the biggest rabbits
I’ve ever seen! The farm currently has a competition online to win
future memory-making experience opportunities, detail of which
can be found on their Twitter and Facebook pages. The farm
also has plans to provide update videos of the animals, birds and
babies at this time to reach out and educate wildlife lovers of all
ages. They do need support at this difficult time sadly, as they are
not a charity and solely rely on entrance fees, they have set up a
Just Giving Page should anyone wish to support them.
www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk/visiting-us
The Suffolk Punch Trust – Suffolk
Woodbridge Walk, Hollesley, Suffolk IP12 3JR
For the equine lovers out there, we highly recommend The
Suffolk Punch Trust. The trust was founded to help protect the
critically endangered Suffolk horse through its established
breeding programme, raising public awareness and training a
new generation of professionals to work with these iconic heavy
horses. But wait! Despite the lockdown, not only do you get
to see all the resident horses getting up to antics on the trusts
Instagram page (including a budding romance between a horse
and a cow). You also get to see the ewes, lambs, goats , kids and
even the odd turkey makes an appearance.
www.thesuffolkpunchtrust.co.uk
Snettisham Park – Norfolk
Birches Road, Snettisham, Norfolk, PE31 7NG
This stunning park is a 329 acre working farm. In normal
circumstances a trip could involve many exciting adventures
from seeing lambs being born to a spectacular 45-minute deer
safari where you see the magnificent red deer herd. To share the
joys of new life with their loyal and new fans, Snettisham Park
have been uploading videos of their lambs and ewes with the
odd photo of the sheep dogs catching a well-earned rest in the
sun. www.snettishampark.co.uk
Old MacDonald ‘Virtual’ Farm – Essex
Weald Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 5AY
Old MacDonald Farm is renowned for being one of the most
popular farms in Essex for a family day out with its host of
animals, colour adventure play areas and spring babies
bouncing round the paddock. Fear not, Old MacDonald plans
to keep you posted via their Instagram account on farm updates
and oodles of cuteness over the next few weeks as the baby
animals and Meerkats get up to their daily business.
www.omdfarm.co.uk
Paradise Wildlife Park – Hertfordshire
White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, EN10 7QA
Steering away from the virtual farms theme now, but how could
we not add this feel good story about a local zoo celebrating its
36th anniversary this year. Paradise Wildlife Park is a wonderful
success story whereby a family took a zoo in tragically poor
condition and turned it into an animal, well, paradise! We defy
anyone to not be touched by the short five minute clip of Bobby
the Lion in the story of how the Sampson family took on the zoo
and gave the captive from birth animals their first lease of new
life. Now look at the difference 36 years makes, with these Big
Cat Live video streams from the parks Facebook page.
www.facebook.com/events/888425864929388
www.pwpark.com
51

A forever
home is where
the heart is
For a young child in care, change isn’t
necessarily a great thing. What they
need is the stability of a forever home
and the support and understanding
of adoptive parents prepared to love
them for life.
Start your adoption journey
today, simply call 01603 638343 visit:
www.norfolk.gov.uk/adoption
A proud partner of…

FOOD & DRINK
On the Menu
The Three Blackbirds, Woodditton, reopens
The Three Blackbirds, near Newmarket, has reopened following a fire
in March 2018. Owned by The Chestnut Group, the pub has been
extensively restored to retain as much character and original features
as possible.
There will be a bar, restaurant, outside terrace and Gun Room, with a.
feature fireplace, ideal for special occasions and group gatherings.
Diners can expect seasonal menus using local produce, plus the
addition of a vegan and gluten free menu.
The reopening will see the launch of The Barn, with nine new
bedrooms located at the back of the property. It will include family
and dog-friendly rooms, and a bridal suite, all with contemporary
bathrooms and plenty of character. They will be cosy, yet modern,
many with views across the countryside.
The pub will continue to be dog-friendly and will include a new
doggy dining menu.
www.threeblackbirds.co.uk
Parker’s Tavern sells £250 a shot Watenshi
Gin
Parker’s Tavern in Cambridge has announced it will be the only bar in
the UK to serve the ‘world’s most exclusive gin’ – Watenshi.
Created by the Cambridge Distillery, a bottle of Watenshi gin retails at
£2,000 a bottle, but customers at Parker’s Tavern can try the gin for a
mere £250 per shot!
You probably won’t want to ruin this one with a tonic. Head bartender
of Parker’s Tavern, Seb Bouza, recommends drinking Watenshi neat
so you can enjoy the notes of sweet citrus and spice, supported by
bitter juniper and a long, complex finish. His team will serve each
measure in a beautiful handblown Japanese glass.
The gin is made from the ‘angel’s share’ of Japanese Gin, which
is normally lost to evaporation but preserved using pioneering
distillation processes, with each batch only producing six bottles.
Watenshi is presented in a striking decanter, finished with silver
detailing by a jeweller whose other clients include Chanel, Tom Ford
and De Beers.
www.parkerstavern.com
53

The bar is spacious, but cosy, being partially divided by a
large brick built fireplace having open fires in the winter
months. Ample seating is provided for lunch time diners
and leather sofas with low coffee tables add a further
degree of comfort for those who would like to relax with
a glass of wine or a coffee. A variety of beers and real ales
are available as well as a good range of wines.
There is a separate restaurant which is bright and airy
and tastefully furnished with some tables overlooking the
gardens. Our menus are changed on a regular basis and all
our meals are prepared on the premises using fresh, daily
delivered produce. We are happy to cater for allergies and
special dietary requirements.
We have a mini zoo including meerkats and marmoset monkeys
within our large gardens and there are picnic tables
available for food and beverages. We also offer Al fresco
dining on our comfortably furnished patio.
Livestock Farm For
Goat Meat And Fresh
Hens Eggs
Goat Themed Food
Events In Our 17th
Century Barn
Wedding Reception
And General Venue
Hire Available
Anglia Farm Shop is a small business based in
Cambridge. We are suppliers of ethically reared high
quality goat meat around the UK.
SHOP ONLINE AT ANGLIAFARMSHOP.CO.UK
07912445297 | admin@angliafarmshop.com
16 London Road, Woolmer Garden, Hertfordshire, SG3 6JP
THE
CAMBRIDGE CIDER
COMPANY
THE BEST DAMN CIDER AROUND!
The Cambridge Cider Company make hand crafted Cider and
Perries from locally sourced, hand picked and unsprayed fruit.
We believe in letting our exceptional Cambridgeshire (and
some neighbouring counties) apples speak for themselves.
LET’S TALK!
Ideal for up to 8 players. Great for families, team building, puzzle enthusiasts, birthdays and occasions.
Available every weekend and other days by prior arrangement. £95 per weekend session. Corporates
£140 per session/other weekdays, please enquire. Included within the session price is a self-guided
tour of Oliver Cromwell’s House subject to house closure for private tours.
Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s Street, Ely. CB7 4HF
01353 662062 info@visitely.org.uk www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
@cromwellshouse
@cromwellshouse
@visit_ely
Contact us for more details about our products and events
01223 636844 www.thecambridgecidercompany.co.uk
info@thecambridgecidercompany.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK
The
Cambridge
Foodie
Written by Gerla de Boer | www.cambridgefoodtour.com
Did a few leaves from a nearby tree drop into the emperor’s cup of
hot water changing the colour and the taste, or was he testing the
medical properties of various herbs? Whichever one you believe,
since that moment, the Chinese have been in the spell of this
delicious drink.
I am a purist when it comes to tea; no milk and sugar. Just tea for
me, please. I have moved away from Lapsang Suchon and Earl
Grey, and it’s now herbal teas only with the odd exception.
If you have something to celebrate or just an excuse to meet up
with friends or family, then an afternoon tea is the perfect choice.
There are some pretty unusual venues in Cambridge, so you are
in for a real treat.
Parker’s Tavern
A must visit is our grand old dame, Parker’s Tavern at the University
Arms. With views over Parkers’ Piece, dine in their stunning bar
enjoying delicious food with a local twist.
SIX
Tea with a view! Afternoon tea at SIX at The Varsity Hotel promises
you spectacular views over the historic centre of Cambridge as it
is just below their roof top terrace.
Fitzbillies
Afternoon tea at the home of the famous Chelsea bun. Fitzbillies is
an institution in Cambridge and beyond. At their Trumpington cafe
you can enjoy a delicious afternoon tea.
The Gonville Hotel
Sip a cup of tea at one of the top hotels in Cambridge, The
Gonville Hotel. A delightful tea will be served in the exclusive
relaxed bar or the Atrium.
Hotel Felix
Relax in leafy gardens with a cup of tea. Hotel Felix is a stunning
boutique hotel with quirky decor. Enjoy your afternoon tea in their
stunning gardens or in their orangery.
Quy Mill Hotel
Tea at the Mill! A stone’s throw away from Cambridge, you’ll find
the Quy Mill Hotel. Once a historic watermill, it is a secluded haven
where you can enjoy your afternoon tea in their lovely gardens.
The Orchard
Between the apple trees at The Orchard in Grantchester. A
corner of England where time stands still as the world rushes by.
Relax, enjoy the genteel setting and soak up the atmosphere of a
bygone era with a cup of tea, scones and cakes under the apple
trees.
Bedouin
Looking for something unusual? I can assure you that sipping
tea in a Bedouin tent is a fabulous experience. Meze and North
African pastries with African mint tea at Bedouin in Mill Road is an
experience not to be missed.
Beyond Cambridge
Peacocks Tea Room, Ely
Quintessential English at Peacocks Tea Room. This
delightful tea room set on the River Ouse in Ely is worth a
visit at any time.
Poet’s House, Ely
Enjoy at an author’s house, the Poets House in Ely. This
stunning boutique hotel in Ely was once the house of a local
author. Afternoon tea is served in the stylish conservatory.
The carriages, Fen Drayton
On the rails at The carriages on the station of Fen Drayton.
Travel back to the golden age of luxury rail travel and
indulge in a delicious range of handmade afternoon teas.
55

The place
to visit
OPEN EVERY
DAY OF THE
YEAR from
10.00am
THRIGBY HALL
FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH
NR29 3DR
% 01493 369477
www.thrigbyhall.co.uk
"Where Quality & Freshness Counts"
We're a small family run business, passionate about fresh, local produce and
quality products and we want you to share our passion too!
Our new café serves tea, coffee, light lunches and delicious cakes.
NS Risdon, a top quality traditional butcher is located in store.
With full traceability his meat is superb. We also now have a cheese counter
serving a wide range of British and continental cheeses.
Something for every taste and occasion!
Now with In store fish counter, Star Fishmongers
Monday : Closed Tuesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm
Wednesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Thursday : 8.30am – 5.30pm
Friday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Saturday : 8.30am – 5.30pm
Sunday : 10am – 2pm
Café Opening hours Tuesday to Saturday 8.30 – 4.30
and Sunday & Monday CLOSED
www.calcotthall.com
Calcott Hall Farm Shop, Ongar Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9HS Tel: 01277 264164

FOOD & DRINK
Norwich
Eats
Summer in the City
Written by Zena Leech-Calton
Norwich may not be the Mediterranean, but we sure know how to
appreciate those few weeks of sunshine. Norwich has an amazing
amount of al fresco dining. So, while your sipping a Cosmopolitan
and complaining it’s just too hot at least your outside.
Al Fresco Drinking – (and eating)
Roof Top Gardens on Rose Lane
www.rooftopgardens.co.uk
Gonzo’s Roof Top Bar on London Street
The Last Wine Bar on George Street
www.lastwinebar.co.uk
Maddermarket Bar on George Street
www.maddermarket.co.uk/bar
Ribs of Beef on Wensum Street
www.ribsofbeef.co.uk
Brew House on Charing Cross
www.standrewsbrewhouse.com
Cinema City Bar on St Andrews Street
Last Pub Standing on Kings Street
www.lpsnorwich.co.uk
Plough on St Benedict’s Street
www.instagram.com/ploughnorwich
Sir Garnet on the Market Place
www.thesirgarnet.co.uk
Afternoon Tea
Try afternoon tea at the Assembly Rooms on Theatre Street or
Bourgee at Castle Mall.
But if you want more, you’ll love the news that the Council
are renovating the triangle on Tombland; ripping out the loos,
flattening it all and paving it for your al fresco pleasure. You’ll soon
see the spill out of restaurants and bars their too!
New Restaurants
Zena – it’s all about the food!
www.lovenorwichfood.co.uk
Instagram - @love_norwich_food
@secret_menu_norfolk
Twitter - @foodnorwich
@menunorfolk
I’m really excited about four new openings; The Gatherers, a
European vegetarian plant-based bar and restaurant. You’ll find
cocktails, risottos, ragus, earthy soups and bravos with Norfolk
ingredients and fresh veggies grown by the Gatherers. Find it at 2
Muspole Street, Norwich.
Then there is Gonzo’s big brother up on the 1st Floor at 68
London Street. Brix and Bones, a steak house, focusing on good
wine with an in-house butcher is new too. They’ve even got Tam;
an amazing breakfast chef previously from Olives cooking up,
what hopes to be, the best breakfast in Norwich.
The Two Magpies Bakery have taken over Timber Hill Bakery.
Open from 8am to 5pm everyday starting with mighty fine pastries
or brunch. You’ll get lost in their menu!
Three Diamonds on Upper St Giles Street is a new Mediterranean
restaurant with cocktails.
Casual Cafés
Artels on London Street
www.artelstore.co.uk
Bread Source has a little church courtyard opposite their
Bridewell alley store, including Breakfast!
www.bread-source.co.uk
Ron’s on Upper St Giles
Moorish on Upper St Giles
www.moorishfalafel.com
Café Pure on George Street
www.cafe-pure-st-georges.business.site
Using the Triangle on Pottergate by St Gregory’s Alley;
enjoy Grosvenor Fish and Chips, The Birdcage’s booze and
Alchemista coffee whilst watching the world walk by.
Norwich Market Food News
Two newbies to try includes Feast, which offers Yorkshire pudding
wraps plus they do something comfortingly British with custard.
Ti amo, meaning ‘I love you’ in Italian, offers European goodies like
pasta, garlic dough balls, Peri Peri chicken, parmigiana and veggie
sides. I can’t wait to try their ravioli!
Cool down with ice-cream
Wander the streets of Norwich with Renaldo’s Cart outside Cosy
Club, Café Gelato on Opie Street, Sundaes Gelato or go for a
Moya Bubble Tea from Castle Mall!
57

FOOD & DRINK
Afternoon
Tea
We might not have got off to the best start this year but
there’s still time to indulge in a delicious afternoon tea,
here’s our pick of the best…
Written by Abby Knight

FOOD & DRINK
Maison Talbooth, Dedham, Essex
With sweeping views over Dedham Vale and the Stour Valley,
Maison Talbooth is a four AA Red Star country house hotel in
Dedham, Essex. Afternoon tea consists of a delightful selection
of sandwiches, buttermilk scones and a variety of homemade
cakes, which may include chocolate brownies, Battenberg,
raspberry puffs or fruit cake, and can be taken in the sumptuous
sitting room, garden room restaurant or al fresco on the terrace.
Price: From £24 per person, or upgrade and enjoy a glass of
Moet Imperial Champagne for an additional £12 per person.
www.prideofbritainhotels.com
Las Iguanas Afternoon Tea, various locations
How about a Latin American twist on afternoon tea at Las
Iguanas? Forget the traditional and come and experience
something different at one of the popular Las Iguanas chains
with a smoking Cuban twist. Available between 2pm and
5pm, excluding Saturdays, enjoy two smoking Cuban cigar
sandwiches and a pot of their delicious Havana Club Rum
tea made with Havana Club seven-year-old rum in a fun lively
setting.
Price: From £25, for an additional £10 you can have a traditional
cake stand with one tapas dish each and sweet treats. Find your
nearest venue at www.iguanas.co.uk/afternoon-tea
The Roslin Beach Hotel, Thorpe Bay, Essex
Served overlooking the sparkling sea of Thorpe Bay, the Roslin
Beach Hotel is the perfect destination for afternoon tea. Take
your seat and indulge in delicious finger sandwiches and
impressive seasonal cakes, pastries and freshly baked scones,
complete with Devonshire clotted cream and Tiptree jam.
Choose from a wide selection of fine teas or sip on a glass of
chilled Champagne for something a little special and take in the
perfect sea views.
Price: From £23 Monday to Friday and £27 at the weekend,
with a glass of Champagne available for an extra £8.
www.roslinhotel.com
Down Hall, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire
This is an idyllic country escape. The building stands within 110
acres of pretty gardens and woodland near Bishop’s Stortford
on the Hertfordshire/Essex border. Inspired by the Downton-like
surrounds, enjoy an afternoon tea service even the Dowager
Countess of Grantham herself would love! Each day, tea can be
taken between 1.30pm and 5pm in either the Drawing Room,
Ibbetsons Tea Lounge or The Grill Room, featuring a selection
of freshly baked homemade scones with Devonshire clotted
cream and Tiptree preserves, seasonal homemade cakes and
finger sandwiches with luxury fillings. A wide variety of tea,
served by the pot, includes choices of Earl Grey, orange spice,
wild raspberry, Meyer lemon and Moroccan mint whilst gourmet
speciality coffee is also available. Make an occasion of it with an
added glass of Champagne. Vegan option also available.
Price: Traditional afternoon tea, £30, Champagne Afternoon
Tea, £40.
www.downhall.co.uk/dining/afternoon-tea
Salthouse Harbour Hotel Ipswich
Head to this this boutique hotel on Ipswich’s vibrant Quayside
for an afternoon tea from the 2 AA Rosette restaurant. Relax
in the waterfront eatery and sip on a choice of luxury teas
from around the world, before you tuck into a variety of finger
sandwiches, cheese scones with cream cheese followed by
a selection of cakes. Afternoon tea is available daily between
2.30pm and 5pm. For those wanting a real taste of luxury,
upgrade your afternoon tea to include a glass of Champagne.
Price: From £19.50, children’s afternoon tea available at £10.
www.salthouseharbour.co.uk
The Assembly House, Norwich
Enjoy afternoon tea in the Georgian splendour of The Assembly
House, where classic tiered stands are served on marble
topped tables in a room which itself looks like an indulgently
iced wedding cake. A carefully designed menu of sumptuous
delicacies awaits afternoon tea diners, from delicate finger
sandwiches to sweet and cheese scones to sigh for, perfectly
formed pastries to an array of bite-sized cakes, served with a
choice of loose-leaf tea or a glass of fizz.
Price: £21.95 for one and £42 for two
www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk.
The Orchard Tree, Grantchester
Situated in picturesque Grantchester, made even more popular
thanks to ITV’s hit show, and just a stone’s throw away from
the River Cam, lies The Orchard Tea Gardens. An idyllic little
spot, perfect for whiling away a few hours in the sun, sampling
some of the finest cakes, scones and teatime treats the county
has to offer. Customers can enjoy a lavish spread including,
scones with jam and cream, freshly cut finger sandwiches plus
an assortment of mini cakes. Dine in the garden underneath a
canopy of apple trees! Price: Between £15-20.
www.orchardtreegarden.co.uk
Missenden Abbey, Great Missenden
Indulge in an elegant afternoon in this breathtaking 12th
century abbey and enjoy a variety of speciality teas, fresh
sandwiches, petits fours and freshly baked scones. All afternoon
tea menus are created with homegrown or locally sourced
produce ensuring the freshest ingredients are used. Once
you’re finished you can take a walk around the pretty gardens
and enjoy the peaceful touch of Great Missenden.
Price: From £6 for Classic Afternoon tea, Sparkling Afternoon
Tea costs £25 and includes freshly made sandwiches,
macaroons and glass of fizz.
www.missendenabbey.co.uk/afternoon-tea
The Old Moot House, Castle Hedingham, Essex
The Old Moot House is a charming 15th century building,
with parts that date back to the 13th century. While retaining
its traditional features, this classic restaurant has recently
been refurbished to a high standard to offer you a stylish and
comfortable setting for a perfect afternoon tea. Situated in the
medieval village of Castle Hedingham, close to the village’s
impressive castle and historic buildings, this is the ideal location
to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea, with prosecco or Champagne
on offer for something extra special. Price: From £14.95 for
traditional afternoon tea. www.moothouserestaurant.co.uk
Wilkin & Sons Tiptree Tea Room, Essex
Multi-award winning and internationally renowned for their
preserves, a visit to the Tiptree Jam Tea Room is one of our
recommendations. Priding themselves on their incredible jam
and policy of sourcing ingredients from local supplies, visitors
to the Tiptree Jam Tea Room can indulge in a traditional
afternoon tea which, includes sandwiches, fancy cakes and
other savouries in a pretty tearoom setting. Price: £30 for two,
including sandwiches, cakes, Wilkin’s preserves and Rodda
clotted cream. www.tiptree.com/tea-rooms/menus
59

FOOD & DRINK
The Swan Lavenham, Lavenham, Suffolk
Well known in East Anglia for its Michelin-recommended
food, the 15th century hotel and spa sits in the heart of the
beautiful medieval village of Lavenham. The Swan offers
three different types of afternoon tea; the traditional, the
standard option that can be upgraded to include a glass
of Champagne; The Gentleman’s, a savoury-oriented
offering; and the High Tea for those with the most decadent
taste. Afternoon tea is served in the Gallery Restaurant
between 12pm and 5pm. Price: From £19.50 per person,
Champagne afternoon tea available.
www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk
Folly Tea Rooms, Hoppers Yard, Holt
This perfect vintage style tearoom situated in Hopper’s
Yard has been lovingly restored by the present owners to
make the ideal place to spend an afternoon in a tranquil
environment. Afternoon tea is served every day on pretty
vintage china and includes all the usual favourites,
homemade with locally sourced ingredients and a selection
of the finest teas, plus some unusual twists including the
Cheese Folly with savoury scones.
Price: From £6.50 for the Cheese Folly or indulge in the Pink
Folly with a glass of pink fizz. www.follytearoom.co.uk
Corn Craft Café, Bridge Barn Farm, near Ipswich
Combine a yummy afternoon tea featuring a selection of
delicious homemade cakes, pasties and savouries together
with a walk around the shop situated in a pretty barn which
includes a great selection of cards and gifts including
unusual jewellery and kitchenware. There are excellent
walks in the pretty villages nearby too for when tea is over.
Price: From around £10 for afternoon tea and selection of
homemade cakes. www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk
Ufford Park Hotel, Golf cub and spa,
Woodbridge, Suffolk
Treat yourself to afternoon tea at Ufford Park in The Park
Bar and Restaurant. The hotel is located in 120 acres of
stunning park just outside Woodbridge in Suffolk. There is
the traditional afternoon tea that includes tasty homemade
scones and a selection of teas, children’s afternoon tea with
sweet treats and afternoon tea for special occasions that is
perfect for a hen party or birthday.
Price: From just £20. For a small extra charge why not treat
yourself to a glass of Prosecco or an Adnams Gin & Tonic
with your afternoon tea? www.uffordpark.co.uk
Greenwoods Hotel and Spa, Stock, Essex
Greenwoods Hotel & Spa offers undoubtedly one of the
best traditional afternoon tea experiences in Essex. Served
between 2pm – 6pm, seven days a week, afternoon tea
includes a selection of fresh cakes and scones with clotted
cream and jam, together with delightful Wiltshire ham,
smoked salmon and cream cheese and cucumber finger
sandwiches. Check the events pages online for speciality
teas including chocolate and vintage afternoon teas with
entertainment. Price: From £21.50 for traditional afternoon
tea. Vegan afternoon tea available on request.
www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk
60

FOOD & DRINK
Heydon Village Tea Shop,
Heydon, Hertfordshire
Give 24 hours’ notice and you will be able to enjoy the full
experience of an award-winning traditional afternoon tea in
this quintessential tearoom. Everything is homemade and
hand decorated with love and pride on the premises using
quality and where possible, locally sourced ingredients.
The traditional afternoon tea includes pretty cakes, big
fluffy scones with jam and cream and a selection of savoury
sandwiches. Add a glass of Champagne for a celebration!
Price: From around £10 for afternoon tea and selection of
cakes. www.heydonvillageteashop.co.uk/cafe.html
Hanbury Manor, Hertfordshire
Stroll through the Hertfordshire countryside and arrive
at the stunning Jacobean mansion, Hanbury Manor, for
an afternoon treat where the traditionally English art of
drinking tea has become even more delicious. Afternoon
tea is served in the Great Hall with a selection of finely cut
sandwiches, freshly baked scones, homemade cakes and
pastries accompanied with a choice of teas or a glass of
Champagne. This afternoon tea is truly tempting.
Price: From £40. www.marriott.co.uk/hotels/travel/stngshanbury-manor-marriott-hotel-and-country-club
Six at the Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge
Set in the splendour of the sixth floor of the boutique Varsity
Hotel in Cambridge, afternoon tea at SIX is truly a magical
experience. The restaurant has stunning panoramic views
of the historic city centre, meaning you can watch the world
bustle by below. The chef remains faithful to the classic
combination of finger sandwiches, warm scones with jam
and cream, and of course a selection of divine cakes. And
the glory doesn’t stop there, as it also has a specially curated
tea menu designed to complement the food perfectly.
Price: £27.50 or £34.50 for a Champagne option.
www.varsityhotel.co.uk
Little Pinkie Vintage Afternoon Tea,
Essex
Love the idea of hosting the perfect afternoon tea at home?
The Little Pinkie Vintage Afternoon Tea company does just
that. Everything is brought to you, including a sparkling linen
tablecloth, vintage crockery, fresh flowers and a delicious
homemade tea with an unusual selection of beautifully
decorated pastries and cakes. There are various packages
to choose from including birthdays and anniversaries and all
brought to you. Bliss!
Price: Various packages available with prices from £9.50 for
minimum of 10 people. A fully hosted package means tea
is served for you, £70 with tea hampers available for smaller
numbers.
www.littlepinkievintageafternoontea.co.uk
61

Independent Diabetes Trust
PO Box 294 Northampton NN1 4XS
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Charity Number 1058284 Registered Number 3148360
Do You have Diabetes?
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Charity Number: 1058284
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FOOD & DRINK
Al Fresco
A forecast for sunshine?
Read our guide to the best al fresco dining spots in the East
Written by Bob Cox Wrightson | Twitter @bobcw
The British summer can be unpredictable, but if the sun is shining there’s nothing better than good food eaten al fresco.
Why not head out to our selection of open air dining spots across the region, where you can make the most of
fine dining in some beautiful outdoor eateries.
The Ship at Dunwich
Instagram @billyhundredstapas
Bedfordshire
The Falcon at Bletsoe
The Falcon is a traditional 17th century coaching inn in the
north-Bedfordshire village of Bletsoe, on the banks of the Great
Ouse. The beautiful riverside garden, running right down to the
water, is the perfect spot to enjoy a seasonal menu of traditional
British dishes and a great selection of beers and wines.
www.thefalconatbletsoe.co.uk
Herts
Auberge du Lac, Brocket Hall
Housed in Brocket Hall’s former hunting lodge, Auberge du
Lac enjoys an idyllic lakeside setting overlooking the beautiful
country estate and the Hall itself. Offering al fresco luxury at
the water’s edge, you can enjoy cocktails and fine dining from
the talented chefs, who use a wealth of experience to produce
exquisite dishes. www.brocket-hall.co.uk/auberge-du-lac
Cambridgeshire
The Old Fire Engine House, Ely
This handsome Georgian restaurant and art gallery is situated
just west of the cathedral, with a large walled garden stocked
with many old English fruit trees, herbs and flowers. Using local,
seasonal ingredients and recipes, the secluded garden is the
perfect spot for a traditional afternoon tea, complete with a
refreshing jug of Pimms. www.theoldfireenginehouse.co.uk
Norfolk
The Dun Cow, Salthouse
The garden of this bustling, friendly Norfolk pub enjoys a
commanding view of the coast, and the mouth-watering menu
offers fresh local fare, such as Red Poll beef which is reared just
down the road. There is also fresh seafood caught locally at
Weybourne, and a great range of ales and wines to wet your
whistle after a long coastal walk. www.salthouseduncow.com
Essex
Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas Restaurant, Southend-on-Sea
Situated right on the beach, this cosy fish and tapas bar has
stunning views across the estuary. Serving Spanish delights
such as monkfish, cod, hake, clams and chorizo seared
scallops, this is a bright and breezy addition to the Southend
seafront, and a great place to enjoy sunshine, seafood and a jug
of sangria. www.billyhundreds.com
Suffolk
The Ship, Dunwich
The Ship is the perfect coastal spot for fish and chips and local
Adnams beer, whilst you soak up the sun in the courtyard or
in the large garden, surrounded by fruit trees. This is a relaxed
and unfussy place to unwind and enjoy scrumptious, seasonal
menus, featuring traditional pub favourites and some more
adventurous dishes. www.shipatdunwich.co.uk
63

HEALTH
Ready,
Set, Run
Written by Liz Mattock
Whether you are looking for a fun run, park run, 5km, 10km,
half or ultra-marathon, we have laced up our trainers, pulled
on our high-vis and chosen the top runs for all abilities this
summer.
Eaton Park Running Club
Rock up and run or train Couch to 5k. If you are just starting out
this short one-mile route could be for you. Nothing to pay, just
rock up and run with friendly, like-minded people. Alternatively,
when you are ready you can progress to the Couch to 5k group
slowly and progressively work up to running 5km. Full details on
the website.
www.activenorfolk.org/eaton-park
Holkham Park Run
9am every Saturday | Free
Set in the beautiful Holkham Estate in North Norfolk, surrounded
by lush green fields, wildlife and views of the sea, it’s a good
reason to set your clock early on a Saturday morning and get
some exercise. You can walk or run the route over 5km and the
café with hot drinks, cold drinks and snacks will be waiting for you
when you finish. Just remember your water and your barcode. You
will need to register online if it’s your first park run but it’s free.
www.parkrun.org.uk/holkham
64

Cambridge Park Run
9am every Saturday | Free
Set in the grounds of Milton Country Park this course is made up
of entirely gravel paths. The course has an unusual layout with
many narrow twists and turns. Sadly on this course you won’t be
allowed to bring your four-legged friend along for company but he
can be waiting for you at the finish line.
www.parkrun.org.uk/cambridge
St Alban’s 10km
Highfield Park, St Albans, Hertfordshire
Sunday 2 August, 10am
Looking to challenge yourself with a 10km stretch? This course,
rated five stars, could be the one for you to test your speed and
endurance over a longer distance. A flat, fast and chip timed event,
sure-fire guaranteed to give you the best chance of a PB. The
whole route is on tarmac and a lot of the course is traffic free too,
so relax pace yourself and enjoy the race. All finishers get a medal
and prizes are awarded to first, second and third place males and
females. Entry costs £18.
www.stalbans10k.co.uk
Bubble Rush
Christchurch Park, Ipswich
Saturday 5 September
Fancy adding some fun to your run and regressing back to your
childhood days, why not sign up to Bubble Rush? In aid of St
Elizabeth’s Hospice, Bubble Rush is a 5k fun run with a difference
- lots of coloured bubbles! You’ll start in a sea of foam and around
the course are four bubble stations, where foam canons will be
pumping out masses of bubbles to create a 4ft deep coloured
bubble bath. Adult tickets are priced at £18 and you must book in
advance online. Full details can be found on the website.
www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/event/bubble-rush-2020
The Great Perkins Run
Peterborough
The Great Eastern Run Half Marathon is a flat, one-lap race. It
starts from The Embankment, next to the River Nene. From there,
runners will head in and around Peterborough before reaching
the finish line back at The Embankment. The event will be held
early October and you can keep up to speed with the latest news
on their website.
www.perkinsgreateasternrun.co.uk
Many of the runs you can take part in either individually or as
part of a group. These details will be available on the various
organisers websites.
65

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HEALTH
Walking
Good for the body,
Great for the soul
“The ‘soft fascination’ of the natural world appears to refresh the
human mind, offering refuge from the cacophony of modern life…
nature is a place where our mind can rest, relax and reduce those
threat responses, therefore, we have resources left over - to be
creative, to be imaginative, to problem solve - that allows us to be
better, happier people who engage in a more productive way with
others.”
Written by Shane Lutkin
It is generally accepted that regular exercise is good for you. It
wards off illness by building fitness and reinforces our immune
systems. It’s good for our heart, muscles, bones and brain.
It’s quite well documented how walking can benefit your body,
but what about your soul - your psychological elements? Well,
exercise also boosts serotonin, the stuff that stabilises anxiety and
happiness levels, and gives you your endorphin elated type rush.
Walking is a great way to relax and connect.
Edward O. Wilson’s Biophilia research supports the idea that
walking in nature slows down the release of stress-related
hormones and our overall anxiety levels and in turn this decreases
the chance of illness – physical and psychological. Walking
encourages the stimulation of endorphins, creating a general
feeling of contentment and relaxation.
Walking encourages the
stimulation of endorphins,
creating a general feeling of
contentment and relaxation.
Recent research, at the University of Kansas, has also suggested
that if you walk amid nature you receive an added bonus of a
deep-rooted uplifting effect to your wellbeing:
I love walking. I decide whether I will be quick or slow, or just stand
and stare and it really gives me something to look forward to.
In line with government Coronavirus (Covid 19) guidelines:
• If you go out, stay two metres (6ft) away from other people
at all times
• Wash your hands as soon as you get home
• Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the
virus even if you don’t have symptoms.
Shane Lutkin is lead therapist at psychotherapy practice,
Emotionalskills, which offers its services in Norfolk and
Hertfordshire. Call 07986 488690 or
email info@emotionalskills.uk. Visit www.emotionalskills.uk
Emotionalskills are currently offering online therapy via Skype,
Zoom, FaceTime or WhatsApp, so that you can access the help
you need, wherever you are.
67

Cambridgeshire (2, 3, 4, 5)_Cambridgeshire 25/08/2015 16:38 Page 1
PETER’S BRIDAL WAREHOUSE
Peter Bullman
WEDDING DRESS FACTORY OUTLET
Stunning Dresses,
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deserve a treat, Elouise Lingerie has a stunning collection that is hard to match. The Cambridgeshire-based
designer boutique stocks sophisticated lingerie from international brands, along with glamorous swimwear,
luxury nightwear and fine hosiery - everything you need to feel extra special. Gift-wrapping available.
Buy Online www.elouiselingerie.co.uk
Elouise Lingerie, 40 High Street, Buckden, Cambs PE19 5XA
Telephone: 01480 812740 Email: sales@elouiselingerie.co.uk
Unit 21 Northfield Business Park, Soham, CB7 5UE
Just off A142 Soham By Pass, (Behind Scampers Pet Store)
Call: 07917757862
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High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL
Tel: 01920 460316 www.warepriory.co.uk
@warepriory warepriory

FASHION
So many clients tell me how difficult they find it choosing a great pair
of sunglasses, so here are some of my stylist tips to help demystify this
process.
The key thing to check is your colouring. Is it predominately dark, medium
or light? Echoing this depth of colour in your sunglasses is a great basic
principle to follow. It could be either the frames, the lenses or both.
If you have lighter hair and skin, then you will generally find lighter frames
and lenses work best for you. Rose gold mirror glasses would suit warm,
honey blondes, but cooler blondes or those with light grey hair, usually
look better in silver lenses or frames.
If your colouring is medium depth, maybe mid-brown hair or olive/light
brown skin, then try a medium-depth shade in your sunglasses too.
Tortoiseshell suits nearly everyone, so is a good fallback for a classic pair
and there is usually plenty of choice in this group. Consider graduated
lenses that are darker at the top and fade to lighter at the bottom or any
combination of dark lenses and light frame or dark frame and lighter lenses.
Overall you are looking for a medium depth pair of glasses to create a
harmonious look.
For darker hair and darker skin, then black frames or lenses usually work
well. Black looks good on cool skin tones too; for example, if you have
black hair and pale skin or dark skin and dark or grey hair. Maybe consider
pink, blue, grey and silver for more trendy options with your cool colouring.
For warmer colouring, try browns, greens and warm golds as these will
tend to be more flattering on you.
The last element is to have fun with your sunglasses. I admit this is easier
done if you can choose a couple of pairs from the £10 stall on the beach
front, than if you are buying prescription glasses. And if you are investing in
a more expensive pair, then be prepared to spend a little more time trying
on lots of pairs until you find the one that both flatters you and that you
love.
Sunglasses are one of the best accessories to help us feel youthful,
carefree and just a little more fabulous in the sun.
Marks & Spencer | £12.50
www.marksandspencer.com
Sunglass
Season
Written by Ruth Essex, stylist and style writer
style@ruthessex.com | www.ruthessex.com
69

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Here comes
the sun...
Though times are currently uncertain, we will
travel again. The tourism industry needs our
support more than ever so while you sit at home,
why not plan a trip for 2021?
We’ve pulled together summer fashion and accessories
that have us longing for lazy sunny days, pool side
cocktails and sunset downers. If you can’t wait until next
year, they could all be worn and used at home too…
Available in-store and online from July, Oliver Bonas has
a fantastic collection of summer jewellery taking you from
beach to bar. Price: £22
www.oliverbonas.com
Be bohemian chic with new season from Rixo, available at Anna stores in
Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex. Top priced: £185, skirt priced: £219
www.shopatanna.com
Essex based online company Sand & Salt sell beautiful summer
accessories. Jute bags, hammam towels and travel pouches; they have
everything you need to travel in style. The summer collection has just
dropped which includes towels with reversible prints! The quality is great,
vouchers are available and there’s worldwide delivery too!
Price: £28
www.sandandsalt.co.uk
Dune have re-styled one of their most popular designs
for 2020. Now available in natural linen as well as tan,
black and white, the slider is a super comfy summer
sandal.
Price: £85
www.dunelondon.com
71

72
Images
Rebecca Goddard Photography
Styling
Coco & Kat

Weddings
Mindful &
Sustainable
Written by Katrina Otter | www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk
Whether you’re cutting down on your use of plastic, changing
your diet or adjusting your lifestyle in some way or another, most
of us are making an effort to be more environmentally conscious.
TV programmes and news reports have highlighted so many
things from palm oil to food production methods and we’re all
paying a lot more attention to the world around us. Mindful and
sustainable weddings are, quite rightly, becoming more and
more popular and it’s thankfully easier to make ethical choices
for your own big day, as I’m about to explain.
Let’s start with bridal fashion because we all know that ‘fast
fashion’ causes huge problems for the environment so it makes
sense that your wedding dress might ‘tread lightly’. There are
designers, such as Sanyukta Shrestha, who work specifically
with environmentally friendly fabrics (including vegan options)
and also support the communities that produce the fabrics
themselves. Alternatively, you might want to support a British
designer who produces all their dresses here in the UK.
Another significant part of your wedding will be your food and
drink and there are plenty of adjustments you can make here
too. For starters, you can choose a menu that’s full of local,
organically produced and seasonal food so that you support
local producers and avoid air-freighted foods.
Look for the specialities of the area to really give your wedding
a sense of place and opt for local drinks too. Wines, spirits and
even non-alcoholic cordials are great choices and if this is
something you’re serious about, then ask your caterers if they will
recycle bottles and other packaging wherever possible.
Seasonal and local flowers are another sustainable option.
Speak to your florist to find out what flowers will be available for
your wedding and then plan your floral scheme around them.
Again, avoid air-freighted options and look at British grown
flowers instead. Another good idea is to agree your colour
scheme with your florist and talk about flowers that you like, but
then give your florist free reign to choose the exact blooms when
they go to buy for your wedding. This means that you’ll get the
best flowers possible at the best price too.
It’s become very clear in recent years that the traditional florist’s
foam is not at all environmentally friendly, so a foam-free
wedding should (if possible) be on your list of wedding musthaves.
Floral foam, commonly known as Oasis, can’t be recycled
and doesn’t break down. Micro plastics end up down the
plughole and larger chunks go to landfill. Floral foam can also
contain formaldehyde so overall, it’s something to be conscious
of and avoid where possible.
Having mentioned micro plastics, you might also want to think
about an entirely plastic-free wedding and if Princess Eugenie
can do it, so can you! There are easy swaps such as replacing
plastic straws with paper straws (or going without straws
altogether) and avoiding decorations and details that can’t be
recycled. Also, think about waste – I can’t even begin to tell you
how many times I’ve seen favours left behind by guests which
is such a shame when couples put a lot of effort and energy into
choosing them. Instead, consider making a donation to a charity
because this might do more good than a stack of discarded
wedding favours ever could.
If you’re going plastic free, why not go paper free too? Electronic
save the dates and wedding websites are a great option (and
they make it easy to collate replies too) and on the day itself, use
large signs to display menus, table plans and timings instead of
printing lots of pieces of paper. Re-purposing items rather than
buying new is certainly the sustainable choice and you’ll find
heaps of ideas online. Mirrors with calligraphy, pallets and even
old ladders can all be used with great effect if you want to avoid
or minimise paper.
Lastly, think about your wedding venue because this is likely to
have the biggest environmental impact of all. Lots of venues,
such as Gaynes Park, are taking huge steps towards being more
environmentally friendly so if this is something that’s important
to you, don’t be afraid to ask your venue for details. The more
requests there are for eco and ethical weddings, the faster the
industry will have to adjust and that can only be a good thing –
for us, for couples, for our future and for the whole world.
Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and
event organiser with over 10 years experience. Find out how she
could help you plan your wedding day at
www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk
73

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Motoring
Fiat 500C Star
Written by Sue Cooke | Twitter: @cookecars
With more sunshine comes the desire to drive an open top cabriolet. I road tested
the Fiat 500C and managed to keep the roof open most of that time. Plus, at
the moment, fresh air is very welcome.
One driving situation where I didn’t take advantage of the ‘wind in the hair’
experience was on the motorway. Not that there is much wind at slow moving
motorway speeds, but simply because it is a small car and in tandem with large
trucks, I just didn’t feel safe.
However, that is just perception because the 500 hatchback was the first car
under four metres to receive a five-star EuroNCAP crash safety rating. There
are driver, passenger and side airbags offered as standard and the brakes are
extremely efficient.
In the interior the two-door cabriolet has a small space at the rear that probably
would better accommodate luggage but is easily accessible for little ones as
the front seats push forward. Cargo capacity with the rear seats in place is 182
litres which was just right for my weekly shop.
I like the short in length, 5 speed gear lever which is at hand height and moves
slickly through the box. The speed you are driving at is shown in large letters
directly behind the steering wheel so there is no excuse for driving at a higher
speed than the road allows. But if you do exceed the speed limit, a polite alert
reminds you. Road and tyre noise meant the radio volume had to increase.
The ‘Star’ version has standard features which include air conditioning, manual
climate control and electrically adjustable door mirrors. Cruise control is also a
standard feature. A radar parking sensor at the rear will let you know when you
are close to the car behind when reversing into a car parking space.
The unleaded petrol engine on my road test car, which was a 1242cc four-cylinder
engine with 69hp was a lot quicker than I expected from the given figures.
I found it very nippy around town, although Fiat says that the acceleration from
standing to 62mph is 12.9 seconds, going on to a top speed of 99mph. Or it
could just be that while driving a small car, everything around me felt as if it was
going at speed, including the huge juggernauts, which I found a little
intimidating when motorway driving.
For the first time Fiat is introducing a new hybrid to the 500. Most of the cars I
road test nowadays are hybrid or electric powered and the Fiat 500 will be the
first city car to be fitted with petrol mild hybrid technology. Fiat says this is the
first step towards the electrification of the brand.
Fast Facts
Model: Fiat 500 C Star
Price: £18,045 otr
Engine: 1242cc 69hp unleaded petrol
Performance: 0-62mph in 12.9 seconds and
on to a top speed of 99mph
CO2 emissions: 108g/km
Combined fuel consumption: 47.1 mpg
75

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CONSUMER
Martin
Lewis
on Broadband
Broadband is a modern necessity – whether it’s
facetime with family, streaming sexy boxsets or
just doing your personal admin. Yet the bill is often
forgotten, and millions are out of contract and
overpaying £200+ a year. A range of new rules
have come in which should help that a touch, but
by far the best thing to do is sort it yourself.
Millions are out of contract – but they’ll
now need to warn you of that and warn
you when your contract is ending.
On 15 February the rules set by the regulator Ofcom changed.
These aren’t just for broadband they apply to digital TV contracts,
mobiles and home phones too.
They must now alert you by letter, text or email 10 to 40 days before
your contracts end, and each year they must keep reminding you if
you stay out of contract.
The alert must say what you’re currently paying, what the price will
rise to once the contract ends, and it must also include how to end
your contract. Crucially the alerts must include what the best deal
that firm offer to new customers.
The hottest broadband deals around.
As I’ve said broadband deals are all about short lived promotions,
usually only offered via comparison sites and not direct. That makes
this rather tricky to write as things are changing all the time.
For my totally up to date top picks use my broadband.
moneysavingexpert.com tool – which shows what deals are
currently available. Plus, as many deals are limited depending on
postcode, it enables you to see what you can actually get (sadly in
some areas there’s very little choice at all).
Rules about speeds have been
strengthened.
Recently the rules have changed. It used to be that only 10%
of customers needed to be able to get the advertised speed,
but now at least 50% do, and that’s at peak time between
8pm-10pm. Plus most big firms, including BT, Sky, Plusnet and
Virgin Media have agreed to Ofcom’s code of practice that says
they’ll give you a PERSONALISED MINIMUM speed before you
sign-up, and if your speeds drop below this and they can’t fix it
for 30 days, you have the right to leave penalty-free. Even if you
signed up to a phone and TV package at the same time as the
broadband, you can leave the entire contract penalty-free.
Don’t want to switch? Haggle!
If you really want to stick with the same provider, then at least try
and haggle down the price. Call up your provider, especially if
you’re out of contract, and ask for a better deal – explain it’s too
costly and you can’t afford it or quote the deals elsewhere.
Be polite and charming, not aggressive. If it says no, then
tell it you’re going to leave and ask to be put through to
disconnections, known internally as ‘customer retentions’. As
their job is to keep you, they have much greater discretion to give
you better deals.
If it won’t match the price, then do consider going elsewhere. Yet
if you don’t want to leave and you’re worried they’ll disconnect
you, then if that happens just say: “I need to check with my
husband/wife/canary first.”
Martin Lewis is the Founder and
Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com.
To join the 13 million people who get
his free Money Tips weekly email, go
to www.moneysavingexpert.com/
latesttip
77

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NEW FEATURE
At Home with
Eilidh
It’s those little changes that make a big difference. Blogger
Eilidh will be filling us in each issue with her top tips for
becoming more eco-friendly around the home.
Easy ways to reduce plastic use as a family
Forgetting your reusable bags when shopping and leaving your
refillable bottle of water at home is so frustrating, I know the
struggle! I’ve spent the last few years trying to reduce our single
use plastics after realising recycling just wasn’t enough. But it
can be hard to know where to begin.
Before you feel overwhelmed, though, remember that none of
us are perfect. One small change is still a change for the better
when we’re trying to live more sustainably. If we all do a little, it
all adds up!
Here are some easy family swaps to try;
Rethink your coffee. Stop using plastic coffee pods. Change
to a coffee machine that uses espresso coffee rather than pods.
The coffee is better too! Or buy compostable coffee capsules,
which are made from sugar cane and paper pulp and can be
thrown on the heap in your garden after you’ve used them.
Change your search engine. Instead of using your normal
search engine, make Ecosia your default. It works in the same
way as better-known options, but uses the advertising revenue
from your searches to plant trees around the world.
Buy loose fruit and veg. Even better, walk to a local farm shop
and support local too.
Look at your toothbrush buying habits. Change to a bamboo
toothbrush or swap your plastic electric toothbrush heads for
recyclable ones.
Sign up for a milk delivery. Use your local milkman so that it
arrives on your doorstep in glass bottles. You will be supporting
local farmers too.
80

NEW FEATURE
Buy a reusable water bottle and remember to take it with
you. If you like your water cold, opt for an insulated one. More
cafes and shops now offer water to fill up with and it saves you
money too!
When you are buying toys look for a wooden or eco-friendly
version. Check local charity shops or selling pages for pre-loved
and save yourself some money too.
Drink your coffee in the coffee shop or use a reusable coffee
cup for a grab and go. With many coffee places now providing
the incentive of cheaper coffees when using a reusable cup, it’s
a great idea.
Stop buying new clothes! Do you really need it? If you do, try
finding what you need, second hand first.
Use matches instead of a lighter. Simple yet effective and an
easy change to make.
Look at your teabags. Did you know that most teabags contain
plastic? Shop for biodegradable tea bags or invest in a
stainless-steel tea strainer and a tin of loose-leaf tea.
Eat leftovers for lunch and help make a dent in the millions of
tonnes of household food waste we throw away in the UK every
year.
To store your leftovers swap clingfilm (which is a single use
plastic) for reusable beeswax cloths, a repurposed glass jar or
any Tupperware you already have.
When you next need to replace your razor swap to a longer
lasting metal razor body, or invest in a rechargeable one, over
buying disposables.
Swap to a bar of soap. Go for a natural, handmade bar and it
will keep even dry skin soft!
Stop using plastic straws and cutlery. “It’s only one straw,”
said 3million people. If you really feel the need for straws, get a
set of reusable ones. You can take a set of cutlery with you from
home, or purchase a set designed for travel.
If your child is in nappies, switch to reusable. You can save
pounds by doing this and help the environment at the same
time. Check out your local nappy library who will be able to help
you.
Eilidh is a blogger and freelance writer who is happiest outdoors.
A mum of three and a former fast fashion addict, she now writes
about their journey as a family to a simpler more eco-friendly way
of living. With a passion for travel and trying new things Eilidh
wants to encourage her lust for the outdoors and adventure in
her children. In her free time, you can find her exploring, doing
yoga, reading and growing vegetables in her allotment.
www.justeilidh.com
Follow Eilidh on social media
www.Instagram.com/_just_eilidh
www.twitter.com/just_eilidh
www.facebook.com/justeilidh
81

Traditional craftsmanship, first class products –
a love for wood and an eye for colour
For over 50 years we have been creating beautifully-crafted products
from wood. Every project is as individual as our client’s brief and
designed to complement the home it is for, whether it is a period
property, a barn conversion or a contemporary residence.
For more information call 01206 735287 / 01473 365167
or visit www.hall-brothers.co.uk
CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | KITCHENS | DOORS | WINDOWS | STAIRCASES | BARNS | CONSTRUCTION | FURNITURE

PROPERTY
Shutter
Style
Once reserved for Mediterranean or American homes, shutters have
finally made their way into UK properties. In recent years, shutters
have become hugely property in city dwellings, country homes and
new builds. A style that that can suit any home, they can often help
sell a property too.
Blinds and curtain companies are seeing an increased demand
for shutter installations. Apollo Blinds (www.apollo-blinds.co.uk)
asked its customers why they are putting shutters at the top of their
home interiors shopping list. Here are the most popular reasons why:
Shutters can now be motorised
Shutters can be motorised with a PowerMotion motorisation system.
Louvres can be tilted to a fully open or closed position at the touch
of a button and an innovative dial system gives even greater control.
This is ideal for homeowners that have hard to reach windows but
want to create a stunning feature window in their home.
Versatile for bedrooms, shutters can
co-ordinate with bedroom furniture
and compliment both modern or
more traditional interior styling.
Coloured shutters
Shutters are now available in a variety of colours. While white remains
popular for a classic look, colours are a good option for a more vibrant
style. Some companies offer a colour match service where homeowners
can precisely match shutters to swatches of paint or fabric.
All shapes and sizes
Shutters can be made-to-measure and fitted in even awkward
shaped windows and doors. Even large expanses can be fitted with
shutters; and when installed akin to bi-fold and tri-fold doors shutters
can open out to give access to the garden.
Types of woods
The range of shutters available from Apollo Blinds includes hardwood,
vinyl and mixed material options – offering different price points and
durability (as well as appearance). Other optional extras include high
spec finishes such as hidden hinges and ultra-smooth operation.
Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms
Some types of shutters are 100% waterproof and can withstand
hot, humid atmospheres. Split level or café style panels offer privacy
without shutting out light.
Brilliant in the bedroom
Versatile for bedrooms, shutters can co-ordinate with bedroom
furniture and compliment both modern or more traditional interior
styling.
Luxurious for living spaces
Transform traditional bay windows with shutters made to fit exact
specifications. Throw open the living space to the outdoors with
tracked shutters. Watch TV uninterrupted, position louvres on each
panel to avoid sun glare without blocking out light.
83

URN29_Norfolk_1.2020_EarshamHomeFurnishings_HP.ai 1 26/02/2020 12:23:20
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ADVERTORIAL
How to
Choose the
Right
Garage
Door for
your Home
To find out more information about
Garolla’s high-quality roller shutter
garage doors please call the
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Whether your garage desperately needs a transformation or simply
a new garage door, Garolla guarantees to have the perfect garage
door for you and your home. But which garage door should you
choose?
Garolla specialise in manufacturing and installing roller shutter
garage doors. With local installers across the UK, a roller shutter
garage door from Garolla will revolutionise the appearance of your
garage. Allowing you to enter your garage in style as well as ease,
a roller shutter garage door effortlessly rolls open with the click of a
button.
No matter what your personal style, you’ll find the best garage door
colour within a selection of 24 shades. There is an offer of classic
garage door colours, like white, black and blue, but also more
adventurous tones such as duck egg blue and chartwell green.
Garolla even offers roller shutter garage doors in two different
finishes; plain and woodgrain. Whilst all of Garolla’s roller shutter
garage doors have a shiny and sleek look, the woodgrain effect
finishes possess a particularly traditional style. These are great for
homeowners looking for a garage door that has a timelessly classic
appearance.
When it comes to finding the right garage door for your home you
also need to take security into consideration. With more and more
homeowners experiencing break-ins, it’s important that your garage
is properly secure, especially if your garage has an access point into
your home. Garolla’s roller shutter garage doors are designed with
your security in mind.
Ensuring that the contents of your garage are protected, the bottom
slat of each roller shutter garage door is held in place using high
strength end locks. This prevents your garage door from being
forced out of place. You can have a peaceful night’s sleep knowing
your garage is more secure.
So, when looking for the right garage door for your home, remember
security is just as important as style!
85

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48
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Celebrating Over
35
Years In Business
paulnewman
interiors
Paul Newman Interiors have been creating, designing and installing exciting and exclusive kitchens and bathrooms since 1984
from leading manufacturers Siematic, Charles Yorke and Villeroy & Boch. Attention to detail sets us apart and our team of expert
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PROPERTY
Gardens
by Ade
It’s clear we’re at an environmental
crossroads; the way we lead our lives has a
direct impact on the climate, seas and soil.
So, it’s important to make small changes
and get into good growing habits.
Plastic pots are a big problem, but what do you do with them?
Keep re-using them. I’ve had mine for years, and by re-using
them, I save money and keep them out of a landfill site. If you
have to buy new pots, try ones made from coir.
Cardboard toilet rolls are great for sowing peas, sweet peas or
broad beans. Their shape helps give these plants a good root
system, and as cardboard is biodegradable, both the plant and
the tube can be planted out together. If you’re looking to keep
costs down, make friends with the wooden pallet. Whether it’s a
garden bench, planter for herbs, or a compost bay, all you need
is a little time and imagination.
If you have spare guttering, attach it to a fence or wall, fill it with
compost, and you’ve got yourself a mini raised bed for lettuce
or pea shoots. Empty jars can all be re-purposed to grow seeds
and plants. Get the kids involved as it’s important they know
where their food comes from. Make it fun, grow micro-greens in
open eggshells and let your kids draw faces on them. Teach a
child how to nurture a plant, and you give them a future.
Worried about water costs and a changing climate? Drought
tolerant plants could be your answer. At the Chelsea Flower
Show 2019, the ‘Plant of the Year’ was the drought tolerant
plant sedum ‘Atlantis’ (available from Suttons Seeds).
Ade is a freelance presenter, blogger, vlogger, writer and
multimedia producer. Whilst a garden presenter on the QVC
Channel, he’s also a live speaker, who can host stage garden
events.This year he will be appearing at various RHS & other
garden shows.
From filming, scripting, directing and editing; Ade creates
professional films of garden shows, interviews and live events for
various clients. adesellars.com
Both Ade and his wife Sophie run the blog, ‘Agents of
Field’, which won the GMG Awards ‘Blog of the Year 2016’.
agentsoffield.com
Water your plants first thing in the morning or at dusk, when
temperatures are lower and there’s less water evaporation.
Water at the base of the plants, and not the entire bed, so there’s
less waste. Mulching around the base of flowers also prevents
moisture loss. Re-use your ‘grey’ water, whether it’s washing-up
or bath water. As long as it doesn’t contain salt or bleach, then
it’s fit for purpose.
Keep costs down by sharing seed purchases with your fellow
gardeners; group together and each buy a different pack of
crop seeds to share. Or you could join a ‘seed circle’ in which
each grower saves seeds from a particular plant to share with
the other growers. These groups not only create a wonderful
community spirit, but they help strengthen the biodiversity of
local crops.
88

PROPERTY
If it’s flowers you prefer, a few perennials go a long way. When the
time’s right, divide and replant. Take cuttings of your established
plants, and gain extra plants for nothing.
If your flower spend only goes so far, plant your flowers near the
house, patio and paths, where you can see and smell them. Try
separating them into pots, it’ll look as though you have more
plants than you actually have.
Wild flowers are big at the moment, and an unkept area of the
garden can do wonders for the wildlife. With so many gardens
being lost to paved driveways and building developments, ‘nature’
highways are being lost, preventing wildlife to safely pass through
our communities, so it’s important to help where we can.
And for those who don’t have a garden, how can you get your
horticultural fix?
A bright kitchen windowsill is ideal for a pot of herbs, chillies or
peppers, and with more dwarf varieties now available, you can
grow a lot in a small space.
If you have a balcony, grow potatoes in a bag or carrots in an old
bucket. If you can’t grow out, grow up with a trailing variety of
squashes up a netted drainpipe. Remember those pots and empty
jars you found? Attach them to garden twine and suspend them to
grow trailing plants.
There’s no getting away from the pleasures of growing edibles
and blooms, but if you can’t get onto the allotment waiting list,
there could be a community garden scheme in your area. One
such scheme is ‘Lend & Tend’. If you don’t have a space but want
to garden, they put you in touch with garden owners in the area
who have the space but can’t garden. The only cost is time and
commitment.
Incredible Edible is an organisation inspiring people to take food
production back into their own hands. Any piece of wasted land
that has potential to grow food, be it a curb-side or a park corner,
they will work it. It’s literally a growing movement across the UK.
A gardener can adapt, change and grow. So, let’s embrace these
strengths and be mindful of our environmental responsibilities to
create a place of sustainability and biodiversity.
89

Roller Garage Doors Up & Over Garage Doors Sectional Garage Doors Side Sliding Doors Entrance Doors
Venetian Blinds Vertical Blinds Wooden Blinds Solar Shadings
Industrial Doors
Cooks Industrial Doors
Sweetbriar Industrial Estate,
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T: 01603 410304 F: 01603 405090
E: sales@cooksdoors.co.uk
Est. 1965
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Sectional Overhead Doors, Steel Door Sets,
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We have been established for over 50 years and are renowned in
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of service and an extensive range of high quality products.
Showroom Open: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm & Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm
Dock Shelters Acoustic Doors Curtains Partitions Galebreakers
Roller Blinds Fire Shutters Steel Doors Industrial Shutter Doors Awnings Security Grilles Crash Doors
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Come and visit our extensive showroom
See our full carpet range in store now
From Tollgate
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Peartree Rd
Peartree Centre
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28 – 31 August
RHS Garden
Hyde Hall
CM3 8ET
Purchase direct from the very
best makers in the UK
10am – 5pm Daily
(Garden open until 6pm daily)
Admission to garden also gives admission to craft fair.
Free entry for RHS Members.
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Arts
Pot Buoy to Starboard by John Scott Martin PPRBSA RSMA
The
Arts
Column
Written by Collette Hoefkins;
Proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and artist
www.nortonwaygallery.com
Sea Pictures Gallery
Well House, Well Lane, Clare, Suffolk CO10 8NH
Frank Nichols by Alison Elliot
Emerging ourselves in art and creativity can be one of
the most positive and enriching activities. Thanks to
technology, almost all of us can do this from our very
own homes. Whether we choose to listen to a lecture on
the radio, watch a programme on the television or our
computers, or perhaps to simply browse the websites
of our amazing museums and galleries, we are able to
enjoy, imagine and engage. During these incredibly
difficult times, this is a super way to keep our souls and
spirits alive.
Over the spring and summer, many of our superb
regional galleries are hosting special online exhibitions
and events. Some are introducing exciting, new aspects
to their online services and others are taking the
opportunity to present new work from both their regular
and their newly discovered artists. Four well-established
galleries to look out for are Lime Tree Gallery, Sculpt
Gallery, Sea Pictures Gallery and Norton Way Gallery.
Norton Way Gallery
51 Norton Way North, Letchworth Garden City SG6 1BH
92

Lime Tree Gallery, Suffolk
The pioneering Lime Tree Gallery, in Suffolk’s Long Melford, is a leading
light in art and technology. Their stylish website is easy to navigate and
incorporates super new ways to view the art. Check out the ‘Art Visualiser’
tool and experiment with projecting their paintings onto the walls of your
own living room.
I would draw special attention to artist Steven Lindsay. His large,
commanding oils, full of mystery and power, would be perfect in
contemporary settings and create wonderful areas of intrigue. Contact the
gallery by phone or email to discuss his work or if you have any queries
about the application.
Arts
Tel: 07879 475462 | www.limetreegallery.com
Sculpt Gallery, Essex
My second recommendation is a virtual visit to the excellent Sculpt Gallery
in Tiptree, Essex. Here you will find a beautiful online collection of bronze,
ceramics and glass from some of the country’s leading artists, including
that of their principle sculptor, Maurice Blik.
Maurice has exhibited extensively in the UK, Europe and the United Sates.
He has been featured in The Times and his work is held in many private
and public collections throughout the world. His pieces are captivating,
arresting and moving; my personal favourite is ‘Touching Victory’.
Tel: 07980768616 | www.sculptgallery.com
Touching Victory by Maurice Blik
Church of Forgotten Dreams
by Steven Lindsay
Sea Pictures Gallery, Suffolk
Heading back to Suffolk, take some time to explore the wonderful
collection, ‘Our Society Friends’. You will find this at the Sea Pictures Gallery
in Clare. The paintings, original prints and drawings of 22 artists are from
four of the main London art societies; The Royal Society of Marine Artists,
The Royal Institute of Painters in Oil, The Royal Institute of Painters in
Watercolour and The Society of Wildlife Artists. They have been bought
together for this stunning new show.
Normally each society shows their work in a dedicated exhibition at the
Mall Galleries, London. However, this refreshing assembly, from some of
the country’s most respected artists, allows us to compare and contrast
their many varied subjects, approaches and styles. In addition, we can
readily appreciate the evidence of dedication, commitment and skill that
they all have in common.
Tel: 01787 279024 | www.seapicturesgallery.com
Norton Way Gallery, Hertfordshire
Finally, my very own Norton Way Gallery in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, will
be presenting its annual ‘Spring and Summer Collection’ online from16
May. We will have new works from many of our gallery favourites such as
Anne Songhurst, Phil Greenwood RE and Michael Alford. We will also be
introducing the highly esteemed Alison Elliot to our catalogue.
Alison is an extraordinary portrait artist of animals. Whether she is painting
a larger than life study of a fiery stallion horse or a miniature of a gentle
whippet, her attention to detail and character produces pieces that exude
warmth and love. She is completing a serious of her smallest works yet
especially for this event.
Tel: 01642 685139 | www.nortonwaygallery.com
“His pieces are
captivating,
arresting
and moving;
my personal
favourite is
‘Touching
Victory’”
So, please take care, keep safe and have fun browsing! Most of the galleries
nearby and further afield, will be all too happy to hear from you. Spend
your time wisely and allow yourself the chance to discover, explore and
thoroughly enjoy the mesmerising and life-affirming world of art.
93

Cambridgeshire
Summer in
the City
At the time of writing this article, the future is uncertain. You
could be reading this article during lockdown or you may
already be enjoying Cambridge’s restaurants and attractions
once again. Either way, what remains the same is the beautiful
green spaces the city has to offer. Ideal for exercise if you live
locally or a place to explore if you’re visiting, we’ve picked some
of Cambridge’s best outdoor locations.
Jesus Green
A stone’s throw from the city centre, Jesus Green is a beautiful
stretch of parkland bordering the River Cam and the nearby Jesus
College. Complete with an open-air swimming pool, skate park
and tennis courts, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll at any
time of year. This riverside park is the perfect venue to relax, picnic,
walk or play sport. www.cambridge.gov.uk/jesus-green
The Backs
Any first-time visitor to Cambridge should take a walk along the
‘Backs’ of the riverside colleges. To really get into the Cambridge
spirit, hire a bike from one of the city’s rental outlets and freewheel
your way around. You’ll spot several famous bridges that cross the
river including the Mathematical Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.
www.cambridge.gov.uk/the-backs
Parker’s Piece
Parker’s Piece is one of Cambridge’s most significant open spaces.
Dine at Parker’s Tavern or stay at the Gonville Hotel for views of the
park. It plays host to a number of events throughout the year and is
a great spot for picnics and sports.
www.cambridge.gov.uk/parkers-piece
Midsummer Common
With the river on one side, the grassland is a historic area in the
city. It hosts a number of events throughout the year such as the
Midsummer Fair and bonfire night, plus it’s home to the famous
free roaming cows. www.midsummercommon.org.uk
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
The Botanic Garden is a 40-acre oasis of beautifully landscaped
grounds and glasshouses. It is home to a huge diversity
of plants, trees and bird life. It develops and displays over 8,000
different plant species with many fascinating features including
a lake, glasshouses, winter garden, rock gardens and a superb
collection of mature trees. It hosts seasonal events throughout
the year including wildlife talks and ‘Sounds Green’; live music on
summer evenings. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk
Wandlebury Country Park
Much-loved by generations of Cambridge families is Wandlebury
Country Park – some 45ha of tranquil woods and chalk grassland.
West of the city on the edge of Coton village is The Countryside
Reserve; a working farm, offering some 120ha of pasture and
agricultural land with diverse wildlife habitats, routes for walkers,
cyclists, joggers and more. Both areas are owned and cared for by
charity Cambridge Past, Present & Future.
Grantchester
You don’t have to stray far from the city to find a wealth of natural
beauty and stunning landscapes to enjoy. The nearby village
of Grantchester is a fantastic destination for a short walk. Stroll
around the village admiring the church and pretty thatched
cottages and country homes. Take a walk along the river and
spot the cows grazing. Finish with a bite to eat at one of the three
pubs or an afternoon tea at The Orchard Tea Garden. During the
summer, the riverbanks are busy with groups of friends, couples
and families enjoying BBQs, picnics and swimming in the river.
94

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As we welcome in the New Year this family run shop
is pleased to announce that we are now online.
New lines are being added on a daily basis.
Feel free to browse the site or come and see us
at Fibre East at Swavesey in February
and at the Duxford Quilting Show in March.
www.sewknitcraft.co.uk | 01223 350691
58 King Street, Cambridge CB1 1LN
For more information on fares, timetables
and other details, please visit
www.cambridgeparkandride.info
* Up to 3 children under 16 travel free with each fare paying passenger
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We’d like to thank our great clients
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Cambridgeshire
Peterborough:
The Place to be
This Summer
Written by Liz Mattock
Planning a day trip or weekend break,
have you considered Peterborough?
Peterborough has never been as popular as it is today
with over 200,000 residents and thousands more
flocking to the city to shop, explore, dine and stay. With
great transport links, it’s an ideal destination for a day
out or weekend break. Read our guide for things to do
in the city:
There’s no business like show
business
If you have nothing planned for your evening why not
book tickets to see a show at The New Theatre? The bill
this summer includes ‘Footloose’ featuring Gareth Gates,
the Broadway musical ‘Bring It On’ and Joe McElderry
live in concert.
www.newtheatre-peterborough.com
Peterborough Greyhound Stadium
This fun and exciting family friendly venue opens every
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday throughout the year.
Get ready to place your bets and relax in one of the
stadium’s two bars.
www.peterboroughgreyhounds.com
Queensgate Shopping Centre
If the weather is dreary and damp and you want to go
out but stay dry, pop to the shops. The centre is full of
high street stores, popular brands and places to eat and
drink. An Empire Cinema is set to open in 2021 as part of
a £60m development.
www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk
98

Cambridgeshire
Elton Hall and Gardens
Fancy soaking up some summer sun in beautiful
surroundings? Look no further than this stately home
nestled in the Peterborough countryside. The Hall
and Gardens open from May between 2pm and
5pm on selected days. Visitors can walk around the
house, estate and gardens taking in the beautiful
14th century architecture, a lily pond, flower displays,
orangery garden and shrub and topiary garden which in
themselves attract all sorts of insects, birds and wildlife.
Although there are no café facilities on site, Mulberry
Café at Bosworth Garden Centre offers hot and cold
drinks, snacks and toilet facilities.
www.eltonhall.com
Railworld Wildlife Haven
Home to an impressive and detailed railway model
design with several tracks, derailed carriages and
working examples, it’s somewhere for the whole family
to let off steam. Railworld is also home to The Haven,
a picturesque landscape home to over 200 species of
flora and fauna as well as a tranquil waterfall and local
wildlife. www.railworld.org.uk
Longthorpe Tower
Many would overlook this establishment of English
Heritage, but it really is worth a visit especially if you
are into history and art. Longthorpe Tower displays
one of the most complete and important sets of 14th
century domestic wall paintings in northern Europe. This
varied ‘spiritual encyclopaedia’ of worldly and religious
subjects includes the Wheel of Life, the Nativity and King
David. If you have an English Heritage membership, then
entry is free. Alternatively, prices start from £2 for children
and £3 for adults with the option of a family ticket too.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/
longthorpe-tower
For more inspiration and with help to plan your trip to
Peterborough visit www.visitpeterborough.com
Dinosaurs in the Cathedral
‘T-Rex - The Killer Question’, the Natural History Museum’s touring exhibition,
will be on show at Peterborough Cathedral from 20 July to 31 August 2020.
Step back to prehistoric times and stand beside intimidating creatures like the
12-metre long Tyrannosaurus Rex and nine animatronic dinosaurs. Was T-Rex a
ferocious hunter or a mere scavenger? That’s the answer you’ll need to find.
On display you’ll find bones and fossils which tell more about the formidable
T-Rex. The animatronic dinosaurs will be housed in the new building at the
far end of the Cathedral. On Wednesdays there will be a special ‘quiet hour’
at 11am for those visitors who prefer to see the dinosaurs without sound and
movement.
Throughout the week families and budding palaeontologists can enjoy craft
stalls, storytelling sessions, guided tours of the exhibition as well as tours of the
Cathedral and the tower. Tickets are priced at £6 person or £20 for a family of
four. All tickets are available at
www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/trex.aspx
99

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Cambridgeshire
Celebrate
the Fens Day
Article courtesy of Fascinating Fens | www.fascinatingfens.com
The first ever ‘Celebrate the Fens Day’ will be taking place on
20 June this year. The concept was created when the Twitter
account, Fascinating Fens asked its followers, what they thought
of having such a day. The overwhelming response was “yes”! The
idea for the day has gathered great momentum and aims to unite
the Fens of Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Lincolnshire and Suffolk, and
bring people together to celebrate everything that the Fens has
to offer.
Fascinating Fens believes in encouraging people to explore and
promote the area through creativity, heritage, nature, wellbeing
and accessibility. The Fens are inspiring, beautiful, mysterious and
fascinating.
Fascinating Fens are asking you to do your thing on the day.
Examples can include delivering and attending a talk or tour,
holding or visiting an open day, having a picnic, trying camping,
being inspired to write a poem or story in the Fens, finding a nature
trail, drawing a picture, rambling, running or cycling.
The organised events confirmed so far include a family craft event
on the theme of nature at Wisbech Museum, an open day at
Elgood’s Brewery Wisbech (and brewery tour with beer tasting)
and an open day at Crowland Abbey including tours, trails and bell
ringing (the Crowland event will be on Sunday 21 June).
The Cambridge Open Studio will be holding a pop-up gallery at
Wicken Fen and the Babylon Art Gallery in Ely will be holding a
photograph exhibition called ‘Capturing the Fens’, which will be
welcoming amateurs and professionals to submit photographs.
There are likely to be smaller events in the run up to the day to
allow people to get involved as much as possible.
You can share your photographs on the day, showing what you
feel should be celebrated in the Fens. Post on social media using
the #CelebrateTheFens for a chance to be shared.
If you would like to stay up to date with activities and events
happening on Celebrate the Fens Day,
visit www.fascinatingfens.com
Image by Veronica Johansson Poultney
101

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check website for
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Courses
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Birthday Parties
Open Days
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Whitlingham Lane, Trowse, Norwich. NR14 8TR

Norfolk
Secret
Norfolk
The Best Fish and Chip Shops in Norfolk
It’s back! National Fish and Chips Day will take place on 5 June,
bringing the country together to celebrate the classic British
dish. There’s certainly no shortage of fish and chip shops across
Norfolk. We’ve pulled together some of our favourite locations for
golden battered fish and chunky chips…yum!
Fish & Grill
Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth NR30 2EN
Available to eat in and takeaway, there’s a huge menu to choose
from. You’ll find a good selection of fish, plus scampi, squid and
calamari. There’s lots for meat lovers too including pies, chargrilled
chicken, ribs and burgers. They cater for vegetarians and offer
gluten free options on request too. www.fishandgrillgy.co.uk
Winterton Fish Bar
Beach Road, Winterton-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth NR29 4AJ
A firm favourite with locals and holiday goers. There’s a good
range of traditional fish and chips. Gluten free options are
available.
The Kingfisher Fish Bar
Coast Road, Walcott, Norwich NR12 0AP
Located on the Coast Road, just a 5 minutes drive from
Happisburgh, fish and chips are cooked while you wait so you
know they’re extra fresh. Enjoy with sea views!
www.facebook.com/kingfisher.fishbar
The Village Chippy
5 Beach Road, Mundesley NR11 8BG
Good value for money with lots of options. Takeaway your chips
and enjoy some fresh sea air. The spam fritters are a must try!
There are vegetarian sausages and pies, plus gluten free options.
www.facebook.com/The-Village-Chippy-485625781634307
No 1 Cromer
1 New St, Cromer NR27 9HP
Run by renowned chef, Galton Blackiston, you can dine at the
‘Upstairs at No.1’ restaurant which offers traditional fish and chips
alongside Indian influenced dishes, a crab burger and tapas
dishes such as popcorn cockles, duck pancakes and fish tacos.
The restaurant has superb sea views too! Of course, you can have
your fish and chips old school style from the ‘Downstairs at No.1’
takeaway restaurant. There are gluten free options at request.
www.no1cromer.com
Will’s Plaice
Beach Road, East Runton, Cromer, NR27 9PA
A traditional chip shop, you’ll find homemade treats on the menu
such as fishcakes and tartare sauce and a good offering of fish.
www.chipshopeastrunton.co.uk
Dave’s Fish Bar
7-11 Co-operative Street, Sheringham, NR26 8DX
Eat in, dine al fresco or takeaway. The traditional fish and chip
shop is located just off the main road and offers relatively large
portions for good value. The shop has a history dating back to the
1920s. www.davesfishbar.co.uk
Platten’s Fish & Chips
12A The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AH
Platten’s is an icon of Wells. It has been serving locals and visitors
since 1966. The menu offers freshly fried fish, tasty chips and pies
alongside classic sides such as mushy peas and pickled eggs.
There are smaller meals for light bites too. Eat in at the restaurant
overlooking the Quay or take your chips to go and find a spot on
the beach. A gluten free menu is served all day Friday, Saturday
and Sunday but it’s advisable to call ahead.
www.plattensfishandchips.co.uk
Eric’s Fish & Chips
Drove Orchards, Thornham Rd PE36 6LS
Eat in or takeaway at this popular and contemporary designed
restaurant on the North Norfolk coast. Run by Eric Snaith, head
chef at Titchwell Manor, this cool chippie is a short distance from
the beach and serves up traditional fish & chips but fuses the old
with a modern European twist. You’ll find more unusual offerings
too such as halloumi and spinach arancini, pineapple fritters, a
fried jam sandwich and a battered Mars bar! Gluten free options
available. Additional restaurants in Holt and St Ives, Cambs.
www.ericsfishandchips.com
Fishers of Hunstanton
2-4, Greevegate, Hunstanton PE36 6BJ
Offering a eat in and takeaway option, Fishers uses locally sourced
fish where possible. With its close proximity to the sea, it’s a
popular location so expect to queue during busy periods while
your food is cooked fresh. It’s worth the wait!
www.fishershunstanton.co.uk
The Rembrandt Restaurant
Dereham Road, Eastons, Norwich NR9 5EH
Here you can eat in the restaurant or takeaway. The menu is varied
with a good choice of fish, gourmet pies, pizzas and an impressive
starter menu. Check out the seasonal board and dessert menu!
Gluten free can be catered for, just call ahead before you visit.
www.rembrandtrestaurant.co.uk
The Sheringham Trawler
50 High St, Sheringham NR26 8DT
The traditional fish and chip shop with its nautical décor is a
popular choice among residents and holiday-makers. The menu
features a good choice of fish, burgers and pies. There’s an over
60s special and gluten and wheat free options.
www.facebook.com/thesheringhamtrawler
Ken’s Traditional Fish & Chips
The Bridge, Norwich Road, Hoveton, Wroxham NR12 8DA
The longest running chippie in Wroxham. Here you can enjoy
traditional fried food overlooking the beautiful Broads. The cute
hut style shop serves good food and generous portions.
www.facebook.com/KensTraditionalFishAndChips
103

Norfolk
10 Things
to do in
Norwich
A visit to Norwich will bring you to the very heart of East
Anglia, one of the finest heritage cities in the country
where you’ll discover over 1,000 years of history, a buzzing
cultural scene and superb shopping destination. A chic
city destination, Norwich is a great place to visit for a day or
weekend stay year-round.
Norwich has over 1,500 historic buildings within its walls
and the city’s compact scale means you can easily explore
on foot. You’ll find more medieval churches than any other
city north of the Alps within the city’s pretty medieval streets
such as the wonderfully preserved Elm Hill with its cobbles
and half-timbered houses.
Here are 10 things you simply must do when you visit:
Norwich Cathedral
The beautiful Norwich Cathedral is the most complete
Norman Cathedral in England. Visitors can discover 900
years of history with a wander around the Cathedral
building, monastic Cloisters and view fascinating
exhibitions. Don’t leave without a walk around the tranquil
herb and Japanese Gardens. www.cathedral.org.uk
Norwich Castle
The iconic Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery stands
proud over the city and offers both permanent and visiting
exhibitions. Lunchtime concerts can be enjoyed in the
delightful music room at the Assembly House.
www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk/norwich-castle
Dragon Hall
Dragon Hall, with its superb dragon crown-post roof, is the
only medieval trading hall known to survive in Western
Europe and a historical treasure. Home to the National
Centre for Writing, it is not open to the public on a daily
basis, but tours are available on the first and third Monday
of each month at 2pm. www.dragonhallnorwich.org.uk
The Plantation Garden
Tucked away but well worth seeking out, The Plantation
Garden is a wonderfully restored late Victorian town garden
with a gothic fountain, rustic bridge and Italianate terrace.
2020 marks the 40th anniversary of The Plantation Garden
Preservation Trust. There’ll be a programme of events to
celebrate throughout the summer.
www.plantationgarden.co.uk
104

Norfolk
The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts offers outstanding
collections of contemporary and world art. A must for art
lovers, the contemporary, glass fronted building, hosts
regular exhibitions, events, workshops and guided tours.
www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk
Shopping
It’s not hard to see why Norwich ranks so high for
shopping. With its large pedestrian areas and bustling
lanes, its quirky independent stores, six-day open-air
market and spacious modern shopping malls, it’s a truly
great destination for shoppers. Norwich has all the UK’s
leading department stores, and The Castle Quarter and
intu Chapelfield shopping centres have over 150 stores
between them. The city has had its own independent
department store, Jarrolds, which is also a great place
to eat with multiple restaurants. Book a table at Benji’s
for afternoon tea, The Pantry for a Sunday carvery,
The Exchange for fresh pizza and pasta or The Bay for
seafood and a crisp glass of wine overlooking the city.
The art nouveau Royal Arcade is home to a number
of independent boutiques and is worth a visit for the
design alone. Dozens of independent shops, many
within the historic Norwich Lanes area, bring an extra
dimension to any trip. The pretty streets and narrow
alleys of the Lanes embrace all aspects of contemporary
lifestyle, shopping and also offer plenty of independent
cafés and restaurants.
www.norwichlanes.co.uk
Market
The city’s market is open Monday to Saturday. The
colourful striped rooftops are iconic and a great photo
opportunity for first time visitors. Wander the alleyways
of 90 stalls, selling clothes, botanicals and goods. Make
sure you visit hungry; the street food stalls are a must try.
You’ll find worldwide cuisines such as dim sum, noodles,
curry, jacket potatoes, fish and chips, falafel and more.
The smells are guaranteed to lure you in!
www.norwich.gov.uk/info/20181/norwich_market
Antiques
Norwich is a great location for antiques, collectable
and vintage wares. Have your own antiques roadshow
with a visit to Loose’s Emporium and Aladdin’s Cave on
Magdalen Street, St Gregory’s Antiques and Collectables
in Pottergate, Antiques and Interiors on Elm Street and
the All Saints Antiques Centre.
Live Entertainment
Norwich is known for its impressive arts scene. The city
is home to a number of theatres and music venues.
Norwich Theatre Royal hosts smash hit shows and
musicals, while Maddermarket Theatre has a more
intimate feel and good monthly improv. Catch comedy,
concerts and drama at The Playhouse and live music at
The Waterfront. Children will love the Norwich Puppet
Theatre and The Forum hosts a regular and varied
events programme throughout the year.
Tours
Tours are a fantastic way to experience a city. You’ll learn
and see things that you might have otherwise passed.
Norwich has plenty of tours on offer including a pub,
food and ghost tours. For something a little different,
book the Pub and Paddle tour, which will take you along
the River Wensum in a canoe, stopping at pubs along
the way!
105

Norfolk
A Weekend
Break in
Sheringham
Relive simple days with a mini break in
the Victorian seaside town of Sheringham
Summer may conjure up images of crammed beaches full
of bucket and spades, but the traditional seaside town of
Sheringham has something to please everyone,
year-round.
I visited for a two-night stay. A trip to blow away the
cobwebs and enjoy some fresh sea air. It was easy to
spend hours walking along the pebbled beach, backed by
its towering rugged cliffs. My husband and I strolled along
the shore, listening to the stones gently clunking together
as the waves crashed over them, while our dog took the
opportunity to splash his paws. The beach is dog-friendly
September to May. Late spring is the ideal time to visit if
you’re looking for a couple’s getaway.
Where to sleep
I checked into Lobster Pot Cottage, available to rent via
Crab Pot Cottages (www.crabpotcottages.co.uk). The
cottage is conveniently located a two-minute walk from
the beach and High Street. Complete with a little courtyard,
perfect for a morning coffee in the sunshine, the small, but
well-equipped cottage is a great base for exploring this
stretch of coastline.
The home offers two bedrooms; a mezzanine double
bedroom and adjoining small bunkbed room. The home
is probably better suited for a couple, but it has everything
you need for a short break. Beautifully styled and with
quirky nautical touches throughout, owner Sue Eyre owns
a ceramics business too. You’ll notice her works dotted
throughout the cottage and they are also available to
purchase at The Handcrafted Company in Blakeney.
Things to do
Once settled in your cosy abode, make your way to the
beach. Pebbly when the tide is in, and sandy when it’s out,
Sheringham beach is great for long walks. For those who
prefer solid ground, the promenade is just under a mile
long. It features beautiful wall art which gives a glimpse into
the fascinating history of the town.
For a real insight into Sheringham’s past stop by the
Mammoth Trail. The impressive artwork shows mammoths,
106

Norfolk
early human settlements, giant deer and sabre-toothed
cats, which once roamed the coastline. If you look
closely, you might even come across a fossil on your
walk. If you do, this can be handed-in to local museums
for inspection. Download the Deep History Coast App
to explore, capture fossils and flints, and find out more
about the heritage and local ambassadors, restaurants,
cafes, hotels, parks and B&Bs.
The history continues with a trip to the nostalgic North
Norfolk Railway, also known as The Poppy Line. Step
on the platform and you’ll feel as though you’ve been
transported back in time. The staff are dressed in
costume and the platform dressed with historic props.
Hop aboard the steam train and travel to nearby Holt,
known for its antique stores and tearooms. The Railway
hosts a number of summer events including Dad’s Army
Live (24-25 May), Mixed Traction Gala (12-14 June),
Vintage Transport Day (5 July) and a Beer Festival
(17-19 July). Themed experiences are also available.
Food and drink
After a long walk, you’ll need to refuel. Thankfully dotted
along the promenade and High Street are a number of
tearooms. Watch the sea with a cup of tea from Trendies
or visit Whelks Coppers, which has inside and outdoor
dining and is ideal for light bites.
Sheringham’s high street hosts modern amenities yet
somehow has the sleepy vibe you might expect from
a quaint seaside town. Camellia Cottage, a cobbled
building with festoon lighting and Instagrammable
interiors, serves up brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.
If you prefer food on the go stop by Fat Teds StrEAT
Food. Open Friday to Sunday, pick up flatbreads,
burgers, nachos and fries. Of course, a trip to the seaside
wouldn’t be complete without fish and chips, and there’s
no shortage of options. Try Seafare Fish & Chips, Dave’s
Fish Bar or The Sheringham Trawler. Get your fish and
chips to go, head to the beach and watch the sunset. It’s
the perfect way to end a day of exploring. Finish with an
ice cream for dessert from Ellie’s Ice Cream – delicious!
Places to visit
Sheringham is an ideal destination for exploring the
North Norfolk Coast as it’s within easy reach of other
seaside towns such as Weybourne, Blakeney and
Cromer. Drive 15 minutes to Cromer, famed for its tasty
crab, Pier and Pavilion Theatre. Twenty minutes in the
opposite, you’ll reach the quaint coastal villages of
Blakeney and Cley-next-the-Sea. Here you can enjoy
seal trips and traditional Norfolk pubs.
107

Beds, Bucks & Herts
Summer in
Bedford
Written by Charlotte Gorringe
www.explorebedford.co.uk
Bedford’s summer is already looking quite different to
the one that we had planned. The River Festival (if you
haven’t been before, it’s the UK’s second largest free
festival after Notting Hill Carnival and a spectacular
weekend of fun on and off the river) has been
rescheduled to 2021, and we are awaiting a new date for
the Kite and Motoring Festival which attracted 30,000 to
the town last year.
In the meantime, Bedford has many beautiful parks and
open spaces which we are more thankful for than ever,
so whatever the summer throws at us, we can enjoy the
flowers along the embankment or heron spotting along
the River Great Ouse.
Historic Bedford
Historic Bedford can be explored on foot starting at
Castle Mound, where part of the motte remains and is a
reminder of the castle built around 1100 by Henry I and
besieged by Henry VIII in 1224. A short walk to the top of
the mound gives a lovely view of the River Great Ouse.
Adjacent is the Higgins Museum, home to a world-class
collection of art, decorative arts and history of the town -
housed in the former brewery of the 19th century.
From here you can cross to the Bunyan Meeting Church
built in 1850 which stands on the site of John Bunyan’s
original church where he was minister from 1671 –
1688. Look out for evocative scenes from The Pilgrim’s
Progress created in the stained-glass windows!
Across the way on Albany Road is another important site
in Bedford’s religious history; The Panacea Society, a
religious group founded by Mabel Baltrop in 1919 who
claimed she was the ‘daughter of god’, and the site to be
the original Garden of Eden.
108

Beds, Bucks & Herts
Bedford’s Foster Hill Road Cemetery and grade 2 listed
Victorian chapel offers a slow amble through the local
wildlife which includes birds, butterflies, birds of prey and
bat colonies. Perched on a hill it gives spectacular views
over the town, right over to Cardington Hangers that sit
to the south of the town.
Sitting adjacent is Bedford Park, landscaped in the
Victorian era and featuring a small lake, it is wonderful at
any time of day for a promenade or bike ride.
The Great Outdoors
North of the town are Mowsbury Park and Putnoe
Woods, a designated nature reserve and ancient
woodland. Russell Park sits north of the river with trees
to climb and playing fields to run on, over towards
Kempston sits Addison Howard Park.
The River Great Ouse and the Victorian Embankment are
ever popular whether you explore on foot, bike or on the
water. You can move from the tree-lined pavements and
across the waterway at various bridges. As you walk east
from the town centre and the iconic town bridge, you
will be sure to walk amongst Bedford’s swans.
The traditional bandstand is still enjoyed in its traditional
glory in the summer months - the backwater where
John Bunyan was baptised in 1653 (now renamed the
Etienne Stott white water arena after the Bedfordian won
in the Olympics 2012) and Longholme Boating Lake.
This route forms part of National Cycle Route 51 that in
its entirety runs from Colchester to Oxford. Bedford is
a key junction of the route as it runs east to west from
Cambridge to Milton Keynes, and if you follow further
east, it is a short stroll to meet Priory Country Park.
There are various routes to explore so you can very
quickly get off the beaten track, explore waterways and
lush meadows, whilst looking out for bird hides en route.
It is great to explore with children, tasking them with
forest school activities as you explore around the lake
and its 360 hectares of park. If you continue from Priory
through the gentle undulating countryside you will
reach Sandy with a RSPB Nature Reserve. On the way, it
is worth looking for the National Trust owned Willington
Dovecote.
Equally worth exploring is the western spur of Route 51
from the town centre. Beginning at Sovereign’s Quay,
from here follow the river and pass the impressive Guru
Nanak Gurdwara Sikh temple before reaching Great
Denham.
Alternatively, picturesque Cycle Route 5 starts in Bedford
and traverses past Bromham Mill and out towards
Oakley before circling back through Stevington. With
pretty limestone villages and views of the Ouse, it is a
delightful 16 miles.
109

®
Like it – Like it a lot!
DONATELLO’S
PIZZA & PASTA
Traditional homemade Italian food served
in a friendly & relaxed atmosphere.
91 Dunstable St. Ampthill Tel: (01525) 404666
204a High St. North Dunstable Tel: (01582) 475797
www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk
Weddings
WARDEN ABBEY
The community vineyard
Ceremonies & Evening Receptions
In the heart of rural Bedfordshire
Spacious Wedding Suite
Wedding Garden for Outdoor Photographs
Wedding Ceremony Licence
Dedicated Wedding Team
Free Parking for Guests
Treat our space like a blank canvas and make it your own
We don’t have set packages or insist you use particular suppliers
The Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick, MK45 1AH
Tel: 01525 631905 Email: events@therufuscentre.co.uk
www.therufuscentre.co.uk
Did you know Bedfordshire’s medieval vineyard is now
an exciting community project?
This beautiful field near Old Warden was first planted by
monks at Warden Abbey. Centuries later, the “Lyttel Vineyard”
was re-planted and now produces award-winning wines.
Today, it’s an army of volunteers who tend the vines all year
round as well as run tours, school visits, social & therapeutic
horticulture, wildlife and heritage projects.
OPEN FOR TOURS MAY TO SEPTEMBER
See website for tour dates & booking, vouchers, gifts and stockists
07981 113714 info@wardenvineyard.org.uk
wardenvineyard.org.uk
Local . Ethical . Award-winning

Beds, Bucks & Herts
Five things to do in
Ampthill
This Summer
Written by Liz Mattock
Did you know Ampthill is famous today for the Alameda, a
handsome avenue of lime trees planted in the 1820s to imitate fine
Portuguese boulevards? No I didn’t either. So, let’s find out what
else Ampthill has to offer.
Ampthill Festival
Festival dates: Friday 3 July to Sunday 5 July
AmpRocks: Friday 3 July
Partygoers, this one is aimed at you – Ampthill Festival organisers
have just announced that the chart-topping band McFly will
headline AmpRocks this year on Friday 3 July with support from
Northern Irish rock band Ash. The band is set to perform wellknown
hits including, ‘All about You’, ‘Five Colours in Her Hair’ and
‘Star Girl’ bringing real life and infectious energy to the event.
Don’t miss out, book your tickets now.
www.ampthillfestival.com/tickets
Houghton House
Ampthill, Pine View Park
Houghton House is the remains of a 17th century mansion with
breath-taking views of the local countryside. Listen carefully and
you might hear the bustling and business of the house in its prime,
singing in the wind. On a warm sunny day, you can take a picnic
and set yourself up on one of the benches or pack a blanket and
settle down in one of the picturesque spots in the grounds.
Free admission, open every day 10am until 6pm.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/houghton-house
Bedfordshire Summer Wild Food Foraging
Course & Walk, Sunday 22 June
Ampthill Park
Fancy really getting back to nature this summer, why not book a
local foraging course in Ampthill? The course costs £40 and you
will learn to identify a whole host of flora and fauna, both edible
and poisonous (try the samples if you dare), recipe tips and more.
www.foragingcoursecompany.co.uk
Millbrook Golf Club
If your idea of relaxing is taking your clubs and heading for the
green, this place is for you. Surrounded by woodland in the
village of Millbrook just outside Ampthill, on an elevated position
with unrivalled views of the countryside, you’ll be amazed by the
tranquillity of this location and also the quality course and 18 holes
on offer. The club offers a five and seven day memberships as
well as an annual subscription. Visit their website for more details.
www.themillbrook.com
Take a simple stroll
Maybe you have never been to Ampthill before. The streets of
Ampthill are home to some of the cutest thatched quintessentially
English cottages in the UK – they really are visions out of a story
book. The town is also home to a brewery museum, cafes, pubs,
boutique stores and restaurants. So, pack the sun cream, plenty of
water to keep hydrated and get exploring.
199

Hippersons
Boatyard
Beccles
Bringing the river to life for everyone
Unique boutique boatyard holiday
destination in Beccles.
Quirky houseboats and secret hideaway
glamping pods.
Explore the Southern Broads by boat and
bike adding on a “Sparrows and Amazons”
package or just take time out to make
magical memories with friends and loved
ones.
All accommodation is self catering and
includes use of a row boat.
We also offer day launch, canoe, kayak and
bike hire.
To find out more visit us at
www.hippersons.co.uk
or call 01502 712 166
Hippersons Boatyard
hippersonsboatyard

Suffolk
Beccles &
Bungay
Beccles and neighbouring Bungay, are two gorgeous Georgian
towns, nestled in the Waveney Valley. Suffolk’s coastal towns
may often steal the limelight but if you’re looking for an enjoyable
day out or weekend away, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with
what the historic towns have to offer.
All Aboard
Beccles is home to the most southerly navigable point of the
Broads National Park, perfect for taking to the water with a day
boat or canoe. Local company Hippersons Boatyard
(www.hippersons.co.uk) have a fleet of day boats, canoes,
kayaks and pedal boats available for hire and can advise on
routes along the Broads, rivers and waterways. You can also
make the most of the area with a stay in one of their cool
glamping huts or quirky riverboats.
If you prefer to let someone else do the driving, hop aboard the
Big Dog Ferry, which offers a three-mile boat journey along the
River Waveney where you can spot an abundance of wildlife.
River walks
If you’d rather stay on dry land, Beccles has many beautiful walks
where you’ll still get to take in the beauty of the river and spot
some wildlife. The Beccles Marsh Trail is a popular option with a
series of walks and cycle routes.
Tales in Bungay
Located 6.5miles west of Beccles, Bungay captivates visitors
with its history and folklore. Famous for the tale of Black
Shuck; a ghostly black dog that supposedly appeared in 1577,
causing havoc in the church, injuring and killing some of the
congregation. There’s even a beer and gin named after the
mythical creature! You can visit St Mary’s Church, which today
still hosts services and regular exhibitions and events to help
raise funds for the upkeep of the building.
The charming town is also home to the remains of a Norman
Castle. Discover the history at the visitor centre, café and gift
shop, where displays help you imagine what the castle would
have been like in the early 12th century. Entry is free but
donations are welcomed.
113

Beccles Sewing
& Handicrafts
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15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB
Telephone 01502 714234

Suffolk
Shopping
Keen shoppers will adore both towns delightful mix of stores and
boutiques. Books, clothing, jewellery, homewares, crafts and
more, independent retailers with their enticing window fronts are
located between high street brands, helping the towns to retain
a sense of old world charm. Both host a weekly market, Bungay’s
market is on a Thursday and Beccles’ on a Friday.
Bungay Town Trail
The best way to explore Bungay is by walking the Bungay Town
Trail, which starts at the Market Place and takes two hours to
complete. A more advanced walk starts at Bigod Way, covering
10 miles, taking in historic sites, rare plants and wildlife.
A bite to eat
Whether you need a light bite, lunch or dinner, Beccles and
Bungay have a fabulous independent food scene. For tea and
cake stop by the very Instagrammable Urban Jungle Café in
Beccles, where the food is just as vibrant as the interiors! Try a
pizza that rivals those found Italy at the Royal Oak in Beccles or
for tasty traditional pub grub visit Bungay’s The Fleece Inn. The
Waveney House Hotel Restaurant and Bar is a superb spot for al
fresco dining overlooking the water.
Tasty tipples
You simply can’t visit Bungay without sampling its local ales.
Within the area you’ll find traditional pubs selling a range of local
brews. If you want to find out more, St Peter’s Brewery is close by
and offers a brewery tour and tastings from Easter to December.
Sweet dreams
If you’re making a weekend of your trip, bed down at The Swan
Motel in Beccles, which featured on Channel 4s ‘Four In a Bed’.
With a warm, friendly and homely feel, it’s great value for money.
There are also a number of glamping sites nearby; a great
opportunity to get back to nature and soak up this beautiful
location.
Antiquing
If you enjoy browsing antiques and vintage items, coincide your
trip with the bi-annual Beccles Antique Street Market. Held in
the town centre in May and August, 100 general and specialist
dealers will be selling a range of goods including furniture,
jewellery, books, décor and much more. Don’t worry if you
can’t make one of these dates, the area is home to a number of
antique stores.
Festivals
Beccles enjoys a celebration! Throughout the year, the
community comes together to host a number of events including
a food and drink festival in May, a summer carnival, the Beccles
Duck Race, a bi-annual antiques fair and pumpkin festival.
115

EXCEPTIONAL CARE
IN WOODBRIDGE
Grove Court is one of a select
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guests who appreciate comfort,
quality and exceptional care.
We offer personal or nursing care
on a permanent or short stay basis,
as well as end of life care, all to the
same exceptional standard.
From award-winning restaurant
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gardens and industry leading social
engagement, Grove Court provides
the highest level of service and
facilities.
TOP
20
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Why not come and see for yourself?
Call Helen Jones, our General
Manager on Tel: 01394 446500
or email:
enquiries.grovecourt@efhl.co.uk
GROVE COURT
Beech Way,
Woodbridge,
Suffolk IP12 4BW
No hidden charges | Charity Owned | Well-established | Reputation for high quality care
www.efhl.co.uk

Suffolk
Woodbridge
The picturesque market town of Woodbridge effortlessly mixes
the old with the new and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Walking
The best way to explore the area is on foot. There are lots
of lovely local walks. Follow the footpath along the River
Deben, visit Sutton Hoo with its ancient burial site or wander
Rendlesham Forest, home to a UFO trail following a sighting
in 1980. An area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a popular
destination with dog walkers.
Places to visit
The iconic landmark Woodbridge Tide Mill is over 800 years
old. Interactive models and video animations sit alongside the
mill’s illustrated history. Resting on the bank of the Deben on a
beautiful riverfront, just getting there is a delight in itself. Check
the website for the wheel turning and milling times during the
open season between Easter and October.
www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk
Shopping
The Suffolk Punch Trust
For a fun family day out, head to The Suffolk Punch Trust. With
stables, a farm, pretty walks, heritage garden, museum and barn,
there’s plenty to discover. The Trust is dedicated to preserving
the Suffolk Punch breed but also the skills of the people needed
to handle these wonderful horses. Families can get involved with
a range of activities including stable demonstrations, feeding the
resident pets, tractor trailer rides and arts and crafts.
www.thesuffolkpunchtrust.co.uk
Restaurant Recommendations:
The King’s Head | www.kingsheadwoodbridge.co.uk
The Crown | www.thecrownatwoodbridge.co.uk
The Unruly Pig | www.theunrulypig.co.uk
Honey + Harvey | www.honeyandharvey.co.uk
The Tea Hut | www.theteahut.co.uk
Woof, woof!
Woodbridge is very dog-friendly with lots of businesses
welcoming pets. Most offer water bowls, and some pubs even
have a doggy menu!
In town you will probably want to browse The Thoroughfare; a
cornucopia of delicatessens, boutiques and bookshops. Visit
New Street Market; a trendy concept store, which brings
together lifestyle aspirations alongside a curated selection of
products. One of the charms of the town are the tiny winding
lanes bedecked on either side with medieval timbered
cottages, Georgian townhouses and a plethora of cosy pubs.
117

Summer is a fabulous time to enjoy everything Bury St Edmunds town centre has to offer,
from the free to enter Abbey 1000 Walking Trail to family fun events including the free entry
August bank holiday Food & Drink Festival offering two fun-filled days out.
Photo by Rebecca-Bacon
If you enjoy variety and are looking for something unique
and bespoke then Bury St Edmunds is the perfect summer
destination for you. Full of award winning independent
retailers, national brands and the arc shopping centre you
will be spoilt for choice. As you wonder through the floral
streets admiring the cultural heritage of this historic town
with its 1000 year old Abbey ruins, award winning Abbey
Gardens and St Edmundsbury Cathedral why not
treat yourself at one of the many award
winning restaurants, cafes and bars.
Starting the same weekend as the Our Bury St Edmunds
Whitsun Fayre is the Abbey 1000 Trail. Open throughout
the summer until St Edmunds Day on November 20, it’s
one of the many activities that will be marking this very
significant year in the town’s history. Using local landmarks
it will test your observation skills and open your eyes to some
of the famous names from history and the lives of the Abbots
who played their part in making Bury St Edmunds what it is
today. The trail is free to take part in and if you complete it
using the special Our Bury St Edmunds map you could even
be in with a chance of winning shopping vouchers to spend
in the town.

The weekend of June 20 and 21 is a busy one in Bury with
the Nearly Festival of tribute bands in the Abbey Gardens,
the St John’s Street Festival in the town centre on Saturday
and the Suffolk Day Big Weekender on Sunday, which
is also the day of the annual and highly popular Hidden
Gardens event.
The following Sunday (July 12) sees a special Our Bury
St Edmunds Motorsports event with up to 30 stunning
vehicles on display on Cornhill when the monthly Farmers’
Market and Makers’ Market also take place.
Celebrity Chef
Sean Wilson
Sunday
Celebrity Chef
Paul Rankin
Monday
Summer also means the now well-established celebration
of some of Bury’s best loved small and local businesses
with Our Bury St Edmunds ‘Independents’ Week’.
This year it runs from Monday June 29 to Sunday July 5
with the highlight being ‘Independents’ Day’ itself on
July 4. With many participants running special offers and
promotions throughout the week it’s a great opportunity to
pay a visit to some of our unique shops, salons, cafes and
boutiques tucked away in streets such as St Johns Street,
The Traverse and throughout our Medieval grid. The week is
co-ordinated by Mike Kirkham at Our Bury St Edmunds who
said: “We’ve held this celebration for several years now and
it’s a fantastic way to support truly local businesses and do
your bit to help the town centre. With Independents’ Day
itself falling on a Saturday when we also have a provisions
market I think there will be a tremendous atmosphere for
shoppers and visitors alike.”
Over the August bank holiday weekend the Our Bury St
Edmunds Food & Drink Festival has the return of one
of the event’s most popular celebrity chefs to the Stoves
Cookery Theatre when Paul Rankin turns up the heat on
Monday. Making a first appearance in the kitchen this year
on Sunday is Sean Wilson from Channel 5’s Great Northern
Cookbook – and who also played Martin Platt in Coronation
Street for 21 years. The event is a foodie’s paradise with
local produce, a farmers’ market and plenty of street food
stalls too. When our celebrity chefs aren’t on the stage
you’ll be able to watch cookery demonstrations by chefs
from some of the town’s best-loved restaurants including
1921, The Angel and Casa. And – as with the Whitsun
Fayre - you’ll also find loads of street entertainment, facepainting
and fairground rides. Enough to keep everyone in
the family happy throughout the day.
For more information about events in the town centre throughout the summer visit
www.ourburystedmunds.com

Essex
Visit
Mersea
Island
Get away from it all with a trip to idyllic
Mersea Island; a gem on the Essex coast
There are few places nowadays that retain the charm
of a time gone by, but Mersea Island on the Essex coast
has managed to escape the clasps of the modern world,
somewhat at least. Yes, there’s the odd sea-facing glass
fronted bar and restaurant to serve weekend crowds,
but hey, who doesn’t love a glass of Champagne with
their oysters?
Beyond this though, you’ll find sandy dunes and fish
shacks accompanied by the gentle hum of boat sails
flapping in the wind. The pace of life is generally a little
slower and there’s no loud clanking of amusements or
fairgrounds, it’s coastal bliss.
The beach
Palm trees front parts of Mersea’s waterfront, but wander
to the beach and you’ll find creeks and broadwalks that
interconnect the marshes. The beach is part sand, part
shingle, and offers a feeling of escapism. You’ll easily
find a spot to yourself even on busy days. The pastel
coloured beach huts are picture perfect.
The tidal waters are safe for confident swimmers but
watch your feet on the sharp oyster shells! If you love to
be in the water or just fancy something adventurous, hire
a paddleboard or kayak at Mersea Island Watersports.
They also offer windsurfing and sailing lessons if you’re
feeling brave.
Make the most of your day on the beach and hire a
beach hut. There are a number of rentals available along
the shore. From contemporary cool designs to kitsch
and traditional, there’s a hut to suit all. Most offer tea
making facilities and seating so you can sit back, relax
and watch the world go by.
There’s a bonus for dog owners too – the beach is
dog-friendly year-round. Just be responsible and pick up
after your pooch!
120

Essex
Dining
One of the biggest draws of Mersea, other than its
rustic shores, is the food scene. Don’t expect fine dining
though, here it’s all about fresh produce served in simple
surroundings. A no frills concept, both Company Shed
and West Mersea Oyster Bar, are essentially a shack that
serve up some of the best seafood on the Essex coast.
Diners are encouraged to bring their own bread and
wine to the Company Shed, while the Oyster Bar has
outside picnic benches and a licenced bar so you can
enjoy oysters and a glass of white wine with an estuary
view – the seafood platter is a must try! Expect to queue
at both establishments during the summer months.
Alternatively, you could always get your food to go and
find a spot on the beach.
For something a bit more contemporary, dine at The
Coast Inn. The inside is cosy, while the outdoor terrace
has plenty of seating overlooking the estuary. There are
platters, traditional fish and chips, plus plenty of meat
dishes.
If you’re feeling a little weather beaten after a day on the
beach, head slightly inland to the Peldon Rose for a spot
of lunch or dinner. The pub has a beautiful garden with
a few shady spots, ideal for scorching days. Cute and
cosy, the pub serves delicious home cooked food.
Things to do
If lazing on the beach is not your style, there’s still plenty
to see and do. Feel the sea breeze in your hair and view
the coastline from a different perspective by hopping
aboard the Lady Grace Boat, which runs 20 minute trips,
seven days a week, year round. There’s no need to book,
just turn up at the jetty and wait your turn. They even let
well-behaved dogs aboard!
The jetty is a prime spot for crabbing – perfect if you
have little ones in tow. Grab your bucket, line and bait
and wait for the bite. All crabs must be returned to the
sea!
Take a visit to Mersea’s vineyard. Pick up a bottle of
Mersea Mehala; a dry white full of aroma and the flavour
of elderflower. There’s five acres of vines to view.
121

Essex
A Day in
Leigh
On Sea
Leigh- on-Sea boasts a historic Old Town and buzzing
Broadway. Cool bars and chic boutiques strive for your
attention, along with traditional pubs and cockle sheds.
Less than an hour by train from London, among the
city slickers you’ll find a wealth of artists and creative
types on the Broadway, while down in the atmospheric
Old Town, the original wealth creators of Leigh, the
fishermen, still ply their trade.
Old Leigh
The cobbled main street leads to Cockle Row, where
you can buy all manner of fish drawn from the estuary
waters. They don’t worry about food miles here because
much of it has travelled no more than a handful of yards
on its way from boat to plate.
The friendly, traditional pubs of the Old Town are also
popular with locals and tourists alike. The Mayflower
on the High Street is a multi CAMRA award-winning
pub that will delight fans of real ale, while the Crooked
Billet, opposite the cockle sheds, is another traditional
waterside establishment with a big reputation.
The Peterboat is a big hit and is often heaving. Crowds
spill out of the pub and onto the seafront terrace with its
rows of picnic benches. The food is pretty good too!
Nearby, the cockle shed-inspired architecture of Simply
Seafood signals its principal raison d’etre, although it
happily caters for those who prefer a delicious rack of
lamb or beautifully cooked steak. Its near neighbour, The
Boatyard, has a superb terrace overlooking the waters
of the Thames Estuary, while inside diners can enjoy
dishes from an extensive menu while being entertained
by a variety of musical tribute acts. Thursday is bring
your own wine and Champagne night!
122

Essex
The beach
Walk along the cobbled street of Old Leigh and you’ll
come to a small but clean beach, perfect for families with
young children. There are splash pools and crabbing
opportunities. The beach is dog-friendly from 1 October
to 30 April.
The Broadway
A short walk or drive up the cliffs takes you into the
heart of Leigh and onto the Broadway. Again, pubs and
restaurants abound, with a wonderful supporting cast
of cool bars and relaxed cafes. In the case of the latter,
the aptly-named Stop The World Café is a great place to
plot up and kick back over a coffee and a mind-blowing
slice of cake.
Of course, with cakes come calories, so it’s time to hit the
shops and get drastic with the plastic. Leigh is chock-full
of fabulous independent, quirky fashion boutiques,
dedicated antiques stores, and home-ware emporiums,
elegantly placed alongside the big names and highstreet
classics.
Throughout the year, the town also regularly stages a
number of shopping events and fairs, presenting visitors
with great opportunities to snap up vintage fashions and
accessories, locally made up-cycled furniture or unique
artwork.
The Broadway and streets around it are also home to
businesses dedicated to health, wellbeing and beauty.
Dining
As you might expect there’s no shortage of good quality
seafood in Leigh. It doesn’t get much fresher than the
crab, cockles, prawns and more that are on display at the
cockle sheds in Old Leigh. A firm favourite is Osborne
Bros. Grab a mixed plate of seafood, a wine or beer from
the pub opposite and sit on a bench overlooking the
estuary.
Visit Sara’s Tea Garden; a cute little café with an outdoor
garden, hidden on the cobbled High Street in Old Leigh.
Enjoy delicious cream teas, cakes and lunch among the
greenery. Dogs are welcomed with open arms and even
have their own menu featuring sausages and omelette.
All furry guests receive complimentary water and a gravy
bone. The café supplies blankets for chilly days and dog
beds as they’re not permitted on the seating.
The Broadway is the place to be for a weekend
brunch. The many bistros are packed with cool crowds
hanging out enjoying cocktails and Prosecco alongside
pancakes and eggs. On sunny days sit outside and dine
al fresco, taking in the buzzing atmosphere. The Brunch
Co and The Estuary are well worth a visit.
123

Essex Wildlife Trust
Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
Essex Wildlife Trust
Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
ex Essex Wildlife Wildlife Trust Trust
inghoe Fingringhoe Wick Nature Wick Reserve Nature Reserve
A great place to visit—at any time of year!
Peaceful walks, wonderful wildlife and stunning views. Walk and discover over
Peaceful walks, wonderful wildlife and stunning views.
200 acres of reserve or just relax in the tea room admiring the view over the Colne
estuary with Walk tea and discover over 200 acres of reserve or just
South and cake! Green Road, Fingringhoe, Colchester, Essex CO5 7DN
relax in the tea room admiring the view over the Colne
•
Peaceful
Children’s
walks, estuary Activities
wonderful with every tea wildlife and holiday
and cake! stunning views. Walk and discover over
•
200 acres
Adult workshops
of reserve or
and
just
courses
relax in the tea room admiring the view over the Colne
• • Children’s Activities every holiday
estuary
Gift
with
shop
tea
with
and
nature
cake!
themed gifts, cards, books, bird seed and binoculars.
• Tea room • Adult serving workshops light lunches, and cakes, courses hot and cold drinks.
• Children’s • Gift Activities shop with every nature holiday themed gifts, cards, books,
Open 7 days a week 9am-5pm. (9am-4pm Nov-Jan)
• Adult workshops bird seed and and courses binoculars.
• Gift shop • Tea with room nature serving themed light gifts, lunches, cards, books, cakes, bird seed hot and binoculars.
• Tea room serving
cold drinks. Info: light fingringhoe@essexwt.org.uk lunches, cakes, hot and cold 01206 drinks. 729678
essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/fingringhoe
Open 7 days Open a week 7 days 9am-5pm. a week (9am-4pm 9am-5pm. Nov-Jan) (9am-4pm Nov-Jan)
Registered Charity No. 210065
Registered Charity No. 210065
South Green Road, Fingringhoe, Colchester, Essex CO5 7DN
A great place to visit—at any time of year!
Protecting Wildlife for the Future and for the People of Essex
Info: fingringhoe@essexwt.org.uk 01206 729678
essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/fingringhoe
Protecting Wildlife Protecting for the Wildlife Future for and the for Future the People and for the of Essex People of Essex
Registered Charity No. 210065

From seaside
...to Pool side
See where holiday home
ownership could take you
Why have just one holiday a year, when every weekend is
an excuse for a new adventure with your own Parkdean
Resorts Holiday Home? From lodges to caravans and
family-fun to rest and relaxation, we’ve got a home for
everybody and every budget. So what are you waiting
for? Take your first steps to holiday home ownership at
one of our 5 holiday parks in in Essex.
Saffron Walden
Waltham Abbey
COOPERS
BEACH
Chelmsford
Southend-on-Sea
WEELEY
BRIDGE
Clacton-on-Sea
NAZE
MARINE
HIGHFIELD
GRANGE
VALLEY
FARM
For more information give us
a call on 01255 442 504

Essex
10 Reasons to Visit
Maldon
With over 75 miles of coastline, accessible and peaceful footpaths,
pretty villages as well as bustling town, the Maldon District is the
perfect place to spend the day.
One: Promenade Park
Promenade Park is the Maldon District’s most popular park and
has undergone a major refurbishment in recent years. You can
spend all day here, with something to do for all the family. Along
with the Maldon Splash Park and the beach huts, there is a large
ornamental, model boating and crabbing lake, three large sand
pits, skateboard ramps and a large BMX area. Find out more at
www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk
Two: Essex Outdoors - Bradwell
The coast is your host at this outdoor education centre based
on the River Blackwater Estuary, just up from Maldon. There are
power boat and sailing courses and holiday activities for children
including archery, mountain biking, high ropes and sailing.
For opening times and activities visit
www.essexoutdoors.com
Three: Topsail Barges
Step aboard for a memorable experience on a vintage sailing
barge that dates back to the early 19th century. The Birds of
Blackwater Day Cruise gives you the opportunity to explore the
coastal wildlife with experts on board, fully catered with breakfast,
lunch and afternoon tea.
For details visit www.top-sail.co.uk.
Four: Oak Tree Meadow
Located in Heybride on the opposite side of the river to Maldon
but just minutes away, is a great outdoor space with some of
the best play equipment in the area specially designed to be
challenging for children of all ages.
Five: Seal trips at Burnham Quay
Discovery Charters offers fishing and seal watching trips which
leave from Essex Marian in Maldon and at the quay, Burnham on
Crouch. The perfect way to get up close to nature and explore
the remote creeks and inlets of the Crouch and Roach. Pack your
binoculars! For details contact charterdiscovery@gmail.com
181

Tel: 01245 225420
Mob: 07799 654107
www.allcrates.com
Your storage and removal company in
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Six: Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
Learn all about the early days of British military aviation through
this award-winning exhibition that includes regular air displays and
interactive events. Check the website for more details on events.
www.stowmaries.org.uk
Nine: The Vintage Rose Tea Room
The perfect place to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea after a busy
day exploring the local area. Yummy homemade cakes and
desserts are on offer and birthdays and special occasions are
catered for too. Bookings can be made on the Facebook page.
Seven: The Moot Hall
The Moot Hall has dominated the high street in Maldon for
hundreds of years. Originally built for the wealthy D’Arcy family
in 1496, it was the centre of local government for a long while. Its
showpiece is the Newall staircase – a perfect example of medieval
bricklaying. The tower also gives spectacular views over the
estuary.
Ten: Beeleigh Falls
The lush parkland area offers a number of stunning walks where
you can view wildlife and really get away from it all. It’s also home
to some of the main falls, locks and weirs of the rivers Chelmer and
Blackwater navigation as well as Beeliegh Abbey and Millhouses.
Eight: Maldon Museum of Power
This family-friendly engineering museum, set in a former water
pumping station, has a fully functioning Lilleshall Triple Expansion
engine, one of the last surviving together with plenty of fun
exhibits. The Museum also hosts regular evenings including
Murder Mystery events. Visit www.museumofpower.org.uk for
opening times.

The Social Scene
The Social Scene
Being Social Savvy and Supporting Our Heroes
Working with social media during these uncertain times can be a
challenge. As Social Media Editor my role has changed, I no longer
find myself promoting local events, festivals and ideas for days out. It
can be very easy to fall into the rabbit hole of despair on social media,
but my tips are;
Readers’ Photos
- Only follow positive people. Maybe a spring clean is overdue if you
find negativity popping up on your timeline.
- Block key trigger words on Twitter by going into settings.
- Stop the cycle of tapping those apps. If you find yourself flitting from
Twitter to Facebook, then Instagram and back again, limit yourself to
one round of app tapping and if necessary, time yourself.
The good news is there’s lots of lovely posts out there and positive
communities to be a part of virtually. One such example is this graphic
designed by digital artist Rebecca Osborne
(Twitter: @rebeccavosborne).
Wishing you all safe and well during this journey
Rebecca Smith – Social Media Editor
Above: Robin Song, Suffolk
Photo Credit: Shawn Pearce @spearcephotos (Twitter)
Below: Rainbow over Ely Cathedral, Ely Cambridgeshire
Photo Credit: Andrew Sharpe @SharpeImages_UK (Twitter)
Got Something Worth Sharing?
We love to hear about updates on local events in the East. At the
moment groups and events are diversifying to suit the necessary
government requirements and what better place to share than our
popular local groups for Cambs, Norfolk and Suffolk? We also have
our Doglife group and Veggie & Vegan group too. Ask to join and
we’d be happy to welcome you.
130

Live-in Care
Specialists
since 1980.
“Deciding to stay
in my own home
with Jess and my
live-in carers was
the best decision I
ever made.”
For a free brochure call us on
01603 764567
We are proud of our reliability
and standards, because your
own front door is priceless!
www.ablecommunitycare.com
info@ablecommunitycare.com