Eastlife Spring 2021

www.eastlife.co.uk
Into the Wild
Your Next
Staycation in
Norfolk
Online Events
The Great
Outdoors
pring

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

10 Facts about a Live-in Care Package
from Able Community Care
1. Able Community Care has been providing Live-in Care Support for 40 years.
2. The service is available throughout mainland UK and The Channel Islands.
3. We have enabled thousands of older and disabled people to remain living in their home
of choice, their own.
4. All potential, Live-in Carers who wish to work through Able Community Care, must have
a minimum of one year’s professional experience before we consider their application.
5. Able Community Care writes for all references and telephone checks the validity
of each reference received.
6. All Carers working through Able Community Care have an in-date DBS.
7. Live-in Carers update their training on an annual basis.
8. We also offer Home from Hospital Support, Holiday Care Companions and Respite Care.
(Brochures are available)
9. Live-Care Packages from Able Community Care are reliable, praised and financially prudent.
10. Able Community Care is a family firm.
This is our office on the outskirts of Norwich.

IMAGINE...
LIVING THE HAPPY,
SAFE LIFESTYLE YOU’VE
ALWAYS DREAMED OF
“We’ve always wanted to live in a
wonderful, friendly and safe community.
We have now found that perfect place.
We couldn’t recommend Tingdene
Parks highly enough.”
t: 01933 426579
e: info@tingdene.net
www.tingdene-parks.net
Mr B, Tingdene Resident

Contents
Magazine Production
PUBLISHER Christa Hallam
christa@eastlife.co.uk | 07827 015170
EDITOR Emma Kemsley
emma@eastlife.co.uk
FEATURES WRITER Jacqui Hagen
jacqui@eastlife.co.uk | 07990 881546
GRAPHIC DESIGN Doug Dawson
doug@dougdawson.co.uk
SALES ENQUIRIES
Beth Hagen
Essex and Suffolk
beth@eastlife.co.uk | 07557 649426
Donna Auger
Bedfordshire and Hartfordshire
donna@eastlife.co.uk | 07796 082 836
Jim Leishman
Cambridgeshire and Norfolk
jim@eastlife.co.uk | 07872 469 669
ON THE COVER
Tollesbury Lightship, Essex by Tabitha Mary
Tabitha is inspired by the old railway posters.
She captures places near and far. You can see
her collection of 200+ prints on her website
www.tabithamary.co.uk
EASTLIFE is published by Local Media Publishing
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.
DON’T FORGET
TO DOWNLOAD THE
EASTLIFE APP AND FOLLOW
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(SEARCH “EASTLIFE”)
Dear Reader,
This is our fourth issue during the pandemic. Fourth! I can’t quite
believe it. Like many other businesses we have learned to adapt. I am
no longer flustered when events are cancelled at the last moment
before print, it has become the norm. I no longer debate whether I
should add COVID guidelines to every article, I think we’re all fully
accustomed to wearing a mask and the two-metre rule by now. I
know to include a balance of articles which suggest activities for
lockdown, tiers and normal life (remember that? No, me neither).
However, despite these changes, for the first time in the last 12
months, this issue felt hopeful. With the roll out of the vaccine, I
am hoping this magazine will be read post-lockdown. Confident
attractions will open their doors and welcome us to spring delights.
Optimistic we’ll once again be exploring our favourite holiday
destinations and dining in restaurants. I do hope I am right and
that you’re reading this with a smile on your face, in a beautiful East
Anglian location, in a post-lockdown life.
As always, we love to hear from you. Share your images and thoughts
with us on social media using the hashtag #eastlife.
Best wishes
Emma Kemsley
5

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Kent. TN12 6NX

Contents
28
34
60
110
08 Word of Mouth
A round-up of the region’s news and
upcoming events
015 Lifestyle
Online Mother’s Day ideas and socially
distanced spring days out
028 Travel
Staycation inspo; a country esacpe,
the Norfolk Broads, vineyard tours and
wildlife adventure
039 Dog Friendly
Catch up on Tails About Town. Discover
sensory spring walks for your dog
045 Education
Could you child benefit from boarding?
Education experts share their advice
051 Little East
Keep your little ones entertained with
Easter crafts and virtual farm days
063 Food & Drink
The latest food and drink news,
Cambridge’s coolest coffee, eating in
Norwich and Beds, and in the kitchen
with chef, James Rix
076 Health
The region’s best outdoor exercise
079 Fashion
Add shades of spring to your wardrobe
081 Weddings
Say cheese! Wedding photography tips
085 Motoring
Sue Cooke reviews the DS7 Crossback
Ultra Prestige E-Tense
087 Consumer
Martin Lewis advises how to reduce your
council tax. Plus the latest WFH gadgets.
095 Interiors
Flooring, outdoor offices, sustainable
homes, gardens and staging your house
to sell
107 Arts
A round-up of the region’s arts news and
events
110 Area Focus
A spring day out; roadtrip inspiration,
visitor guides and restaurant
recommendations
7

Word
of
Mouth
The latest news from around the region
Home Sweet Home in Cambridgeshire
Country living with city links is on the top of most homebuyers
lists, and award-winning developer Laragh Homes is making it
a reality.
Laragh is currently progressing with two additional
developments in Cambridgeshire; The Mews on Histon Road
and Phase 4 of Manor Farm in Stretham.
www.laragh.co.uk
Its latest Cambridgeshire developments, The Old Tannery in
Ely, a collection of 25 lavish apartments, and Emerson Park in
Great Abington, a group of 15 luxury houses, is quickly making
progress with many plots already sold.
The Old Tannery set in the beautiful Cathedral city of Ely
features one studio, seven one-bedroom and 17 two-bedroom
apartments with private parking available. Emerson Park is
located in the picturesque south Cambs countryside in a
quintessential village with access to the River Granta and a
short distance to Cambridge city centre. Each home is designed
to a high-specification with built-in features and impressive
architectural concepts.
A small selection of the homes at Emerson Park will be available
to purchase through the £100K Home Initiative. In partnership
with Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority it
creates a solution to ownership by offering affordable housing,
ideal for first time buyers.
8

A Scent of Calm
The past 12 months has been stressful for most of us, but a Suffolk
business, launched during the first lockdown, is providing the perfect
antidote. Botanical Forrest, created by Clare Forrest, offers a selection
of candles and wax melts made in small batches using 100 per cent
plant-based soy wax.
Inspired by the beauty of Suffolk’s nature, in particular its woodlands
and coastline, each candle is infused with a premium fragrance and
essential oil. Once lit the candle fills the home with a relaxing scent
which lasts long after the flame has been blown out, a sign of true
craftsmanship and excellence.
The products are poured by hand, and in addition to their eco
credentials, Clare has collaborated with local businesses including
web designers, photographers and local artisans.
Botanical Forrest will be giving back to the community through a
partnership with Work For Good, donating 10 per cent of sales from
their spring rose fragrance to Suffolk Mind, until the end of April.
www.botanicalforrest.co.uk
The Perfect Present
If you’re stuck for a gift idea for Mother’s Day, look no further than
vintage jewellery brand, Trinkets27.
Created at the end of summer 2020, Trinkets27, a Saffron Walden
business, is another delight to come out of lockdown. Each piece
of ornate and beautiful vintage jewellery is carefully curated and
reworked to give it a new life. The brands ethos is committed to
extending the life of jewellery already in existence and giving it a new
home. The jewellery is sourced as locally as possible with charms most
often Victorian, and costume jewellery dating to back to the 1950s.
Shoppers can pick up colourful handmade friendship necklaces,
simple layering chains, vintage charms, earrings and rings, ranging
from £9 to £55. It’s a great place to shop for gifts. The only problem is
you may want to keep it all for yourself! www.trinkets27.com
Oxwash Arrives in
Cambridge
Oxwash, a sustainable laundry delivery
service has launched in Cambridge
covering postcodes CB1 to CB5, and
most recently, extending the service to
CB24.
Lines of Lowestoft
Local artist and designer, Mickey
Gibbons, has independently published
a book of his Lowestoft sketches. A
tribute to his father, Peter Gibbons,
the designer returned to Lowestoft to
visit his father’s favourite locations in
his MK1 Ford Transit campervan. In
the wake of his father’s death, Mickey
curated 48 drawings centred around
a discontinued Ordnance Survey map
of the area. The colourful sketches are
interesting and beautifully illustrated.
The book titled ‘Sheet 137 Lowestoft’
and published by The Leiston Press, is
priced £25 and available to purchase at
www.mickeygibbons.com/store
Switched On
A lighting brand has been launched by
a small team of creatives, based in West
Bergholt, Essex.
Designed by David Lam and crafted
by Julie Lam, the lights are fashioned
locally using traditional skills to make
chic, neutral lighting, that embodies a
mindful approach.
The beautiful collection of stylish,
organic porcelain lights launched online
in February.
View the collection at
www.lam-lighting.co.uk
The service operates a sustainable wet
cleaning facility using only water and
biodegradable detergents, avoiding
harmful chemicals usually required for
dry cleaning. It uses a fleet of electric
cargo bikes to return your laundry. It
aims to reduce CO2 emissions, save
water and remove plastic waste from its
network.
An 8kg bag of mixed items to be
washed, dried and folded is priced
£14.95, and based on a 48-hour
turnaround. The company has seen
growth due to the pandemic and
now operates in London, Oxford and
Cambridge. Get £5 off your first order
with the code ‘EASTLIFE’, valid until 30
April 21. www.oxwash.com
9

Centre of Excellence for
children and young people.
referred to us from all over the country.
Our experienced paediatric consultants have been
leading the way for child treatments for a number
of years, employing the safest and least invasive
surgical techniques.
Children from 0-3 years can be seen in our outpatients
department and children over 3 years as inpatients.
If your child needs to stay overnight, a paediatric nurse
stays overnight as well, giving you the reassurance you
need that your child is safe. Alternatively we also have
facilities for you to stay overnight with your child.
It can be a worrying time when your child isn’t well.
We understand that sometimes you don’t want to wait for
a diagnosis or perhaps you just want a second opinion.
assured that your child is in the best hands possible
for treatment.
Below are just some of the children’s services we provide:
• Allergies
• Children’s surgery (minor)
• Dermatology
Additional services:
• Physiotherapy
or visit
• Audiology
• Dental services
• Ear, nose and throat
(ENT)
• X-Ray
01277 695 631

Specialists in you
Don’t put
your life on
Get the treatment y
Get the treatment Join us at
Join us at
or a discrete one-to-one, f
or a discrete one-to-one, f
Thursday 14 June, 6.30pm
Thursday 14 June, 6.30pm
Pay as you go treatment Consultant ENT Surgeon
Consultant ENT Surgeon
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hos
Mr
Mr George George Fayad
Fayad
built around you
Tuesday 19 June, 6.30pm
Tuesday 19 June, 6.30pm
Pay as you go treatment Consultant Ophthalmic bu Su
Some of our services include:
Whether you’re ready to see a Consultant
• Breast Care
• Cardiology
searching for prices, we can help.
Visit nuffieldhealth
Pay for the treatment you need – and fe
S
Your treatment guide f
Your
infected
treatment
or enlarged
guide
to
infected or enlarged to
Considering vision corr
Considering
or cataract surgery?
vision corr
Whether you’re ready to see a Consultant or are simply or searching cataract surgery?
for prices, we can help.
Pay for the treatment you need – and feel better faster.
• Cataracts / Eyes
• Cosmetic Surgery
• Endoscopy
• Hernia Repair
Consultant Mr Simon Ruben Ophthalmic Su
Mr Simon Ruben
Let’s talk hips and knee
Let’s talk hips and knee
Wednesday 20 June, 6.30p
Wednesday 20 June, 6.30p
Consultant Orthopaedic S
Consultant Mr Ravindran Orthopaedic Ranjith S
Mr Ravindran Ranjith
• Varicose Veins
• Women’s & Men’s Health For more information or
For more information or
or please call Or 01277 ca 886
or please call 01277 886
Or call 01277 695 631
• Children’s Services
• Ear, Nose & Throat
• Gastroenterology
• Orthopaedics/Sports Injuries
Essex CM15 8EH

The
Calendar
Due to COVID-19 event information is being updated frequently
and events may be cancelled or postponed. Please ensure you
check ahead before visiting any event listed.
The Cambridge Festival, 26 March – 4 April
The University of Cambridge has unveiled the programme for its exciting, new festival,
the Cambridge Festival, which is set to host an extensive series of free, online events.
March
The Festival will bring together the Cambridge Science Festival and the Cambridge
Festival of Ideas and aims to tackle and offer solutions for humanity’s most pressing
issues, from pandemics, climate change and global economics, to human rights and
the future of democracy.
It will include over 370 events, including debates, discussions, talks, exhibitions, lab
tours, workshops, films and performances, present new ideas, research and insight into
our daily lives and the issues that are affecting all of us.
www.festival.cam.ac.uk
Hertford Arts Trail
10 April – 8 May
Returning to the market town once again, the arts trail will showcase a range of local
artists and businesses. The pop-up art exhibition venues will be located around the
town centre, where venues consist of a multitude of retailers including bars and cafes,
beauty salons, clothes retailers and gift shops. Artwork will be available to purchase.
Norfolk and Norwich Festival
14-30 May
Norfolk & Norwich Festival has confirmed that the 2021 Festival will take place
between 14 – 30 May. The 2021 edition of the arts festival will be a one-off adaptation,
with programme and presentation designed especially for COVID-times. The full
programme will be released in March. www.nnfestival.org.uk
Jess Glynne announces Forest Live dates for 2021
Jess Glynne has announced dates as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series
presented by Forestry England. She will perform at Thetford Forest, near Brandon,
Suffolk on 20 June. www.forestryengland.uk/music
Announcements
12

Elephants Parade into Luton, 3 July
A vibrant parade of elephants will arrive in Luton to form a public art trail – raising
funds for Keech Hospice Care. At least 30 dazzlingly designed elephant sculptures
will make up The Big Trunk Trail and trumpet along a free art trail around Luton’s
landmarks and public spaces for 11 weeks.
Bedknobs and Broomsticks at Milton Keynes Theatre
Disney’s Academy Award-winning movie ‘Bedknobs and Broomsticks’ will make its
world premiere as an exciting stage musical, coming to Milton Keynes Theatre from
Tuesday 14 September 2021.
Announcements
Classic Ibiza at Hatfield House
Classic Ibiza is returning to Hatfield House, Hertfordshire on Saturday 21 August
with its heady blend of Balearic-infused house music, performed by the 32-piece
Urban Soul Orchestra (USO), headline DJs and globally renowned vocalists. In 2019,
Classic Ibiza performed to 70,000 people in the UK and Spain. The show promises
to be better than ever with an extra hour-long chill-out DJ slot, new tracks, an
enhanced light-show and most importantly…even more toilets!
The concert organisers are working with We Are The Fair, a health & safety specialist
event company, that helps large concerts to take place safely in the current
environment. Tickets priced £45.
www.classicibiza.co.uk
Abbey 1000 Celebrations in Bury St Edmunds
Postponed
In light of the continuing uncertainty around the global pandemic, the Abbey 1000
Group has made the decision to postpone all of the events planned for the 1,000th
anniversary of the founding of the Abbey of St Edmund until 2022.
13

PRICES FROM
£775,000
OFF PLAN RESERVATIONS AVAILABLE NOW
15
LOCATED
stunning luxury 3 & 4 bedroom homes
IN A beautiful natural setting
TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST, CONTACT THE SOLE AGENTS
PROUDLY DEVELOPED BY
01223 214214
Christina Ballands
christina.ballands@cheffins.co.uk
Martin Walshe
martin.walshe@cheffins.co.uk
cheffins.co.uk
laragh.co.uk

LAUNCHING
SPRING 2021!
EARLY BIRD RESERVATIONS
ARE AVAILABLE PRIOR TO
THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH
- A RARE OPPORTUNITY
FOR IMMEDIATE BUYERS,
CURRENTLY IN A POSITION
TO PROCEED!
A NEW DEVELOPMENT OF
25 STUNNING 1 & 2 BEDROOM CONTEMPORARY APARTMENTS
ROOFTOP TERRACES WITH CATHEDRAL VIEWS
CENTRAL LOCATION CLOSE TO THE STATION
CALL NOW TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
01353 654900
theoldtannery@cheffins.co.uk
www.cheffins.co.uk | www.laragh.co.uk

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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16

LIFESTYLE
Mother’s
Day
Treats
Written by Abby Knight
Imaginative ways to
treat your mum this
Mother’s Day
Let’s hope we will all be
celebrating Mother’s Day in the
traditional way but whatever your
plans, here’s some creative ideas
to help make it special.
17

LIFESTYLE
Play Detective
Why not let mum immerse herself in a fun
murder mystery evening that takes place over
a delicious three course meal? It’s available
at one of over 100 top quality locations
nationwide and with over 100 original plots
where mum and her guest get to mingle with
the actors. Once she’s solved the mystery,
she can enjoy a comfortable night’s stay with
breakfast. Price £179 for two, available at
www.buyagift.co.uk
Brunch for Mum
Why not spoil mum this year with brunch
at Gastrono-me, in the historic town of
Bury St Edmunds? She’ll be made to feel
completely special with complimentary fizz
on arrival. Tuck into Gastrono-me’s delicious
brunch dishes including home-baked
banana bread sandwiched with whipped
honey mascarpone, tossed almonds and
blackberry compote; lemon berry pancakes
with cheesecake cream and the signature
Gastrono-me hash, spicy diced potatoes,
chorizo, bacon, onion, tomatoes and peppers
served on wilted spinach, farmhouse toast
and topped with a fried egg. There is also the
option to go bottomless for 90-minutes of
unlimited breakfast Me-mosa’s! For details on
how to book and availability, visit
www.gastrono-me.co.uk
Treat her to a ‘Feel
Amazing’ App
Great for stressed-out mums, treat her
to a ‘Feel Amazing’ membership – a
brilliant new mindful app created by
leading hypnotherapist Ailsa Frank. In
these unsettling times the ‘Feel Amazing’
app is the perfect pick-me-up with short
recordings to fit into her day including boost
confidence, calming music and women’s
wellbeing. Individual titles retail at £9.99
each and the membership gives her access
to 45 titles, available at Apple App Store or
Google Play.
Enjoy Some Together Time
As part of Sea Salt Cornwall clothing and
Pukka’s Make Time campaign, why not get
together with your mum to create something
special? Popular crafter Kate from The Makery,
shows how to bring a little nature indoors by
creating a pretty macrame plant pot hanger.
Simple enough for beginners but stylish
enough to display with pride, you only need a
few materials to get going, plus a glass of wine
to celebrate the finished result with your mum!
For details visit www.seassalt.co.uk
18

LIFESTYLE
Roam the Gardens
All Aboard the Steam Train
A lovely way for the family, including mum,
to get together. Bure Valley Railway is a great
way to explore the Norfolk countryside, with
views of the river too, on board an authentic
steam train. Pack a picnic for when you jump
off! For the timetable, to book and for more
information visit www.bvrw.co.uk
One of finest manor houses, Kentwell House,
will reopen its gardens from mid-February
2021 after a long restoration project, giving
you an opportunity to explore and unwind
while at the same time keeping your distance
from other visitors. Hopefully you’ll also be
able to visit the Tudor house that’s been
tastefully mixed with the contemporary by
current owners for a family home with a real
difference. Visit www.kentwell.co.uk for
details and opening times.
Step into a Legend
Row your Boat
Explore the wonderful winding rivers of
Norfolk by taking a day out on one of popular
Broads Tours comfortable day boats including
the spectacular Belle of the Broads. The day
trips have been specially redesigned to be
safe and socially distanced and even pets are
welcome. For prices and more details visit
www.broadstours.co.uk
Dating from the 17th century, the gardens at
Hatfield House near Hertford, have evolved
into a gardener’s paradise. Mums will love the
peace of the West Garden with its scented
garden, fountains and fascinating Longitude
dial. In springtime there’s a spectacular show
of bluebells and daffodils not to be missed.
The park also has a series of great walks for all
the family and a picnic area where dogs are
welcome too. Hatfield House has appeared in
many TV shows and films, see if you can spot
where everyone’s must watch ‘The Crown’
might have been filmed as well Sherlock
Holmes and ‘The Favourite’. For details visit
www.hatfield-house.co.uk
Over the Rainbow
An unusual treat for mum and a real spring
pick me up, renowned Coggeshall-based
therapist and healer Britta Hochkeppel,
is offering a new online aura reading and
healing session that will help your mum
discover her true colours! Your emotional and
physical wellbeing is revealed in the colours
around your body that Britta can tap into
that gives a valuable insight and fun healing
session. Your mum will be sent her aura colour
print to treasure too. Price £65 for 45-minute
session, visit www.vitaserena.co.uk or call
07900 211088 for more details.
19

Live, work
and play at
Inholm
Inholm is a new neighbourhood
within Northstowe, an exciting new
town for Cambridgeshire.
Inholm begins with 43 Town Houses on The Peninsula, built around
landscaped squares, communal spaces and greenery. Effortlessly
connected with guided busways, cycle routes and footpaths linking
with the future town centre next door, the city of Cambridge and
London. Be an early adopter at Inholm and discover the plans for
Northstowe’s new amenities including shops, restaurants, office
spaces, sports hubs and a huge education campus - eight new
schools from nursery to 6th form!
– Minutes by foot to Northstowe’s water parks
– 32 minutes by bike to Cambridge Science Park
– 29 minutes by guided bus to Cambridge Centre
– 62 minutes by train to London King’s Cross
Contact Brandon today, to book a virtual or
physical appointment
01223 867 000
inholm@housebyurbansplash.co.uk
www.housebyurbansplash.co.uk/Inholm
Stirling Road, Northstowe, Cambridge, CB24 1DJ

LIFESTYLE
Put a spring
in your step
As the region begins to bloom, there’s no better time to
explore some of the East’s best outdoor spaces
22

LIFESTYLE
Forests dense with pretty spring flowers. A carpet of daffodils, snowdrops and
bluebells. Grand mansions that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire.
Nature reserves alive with wildlife. Wherever you live or plan to travel to this spring,
ensure you make the most of your time at your chosen destination and this beautiful
season.
Cambridgeshire
With city and countryside, the county offers the best of both worlds. There’s plenty to
discover during spring. Begin in the city of Cambridge with a walk along the Backs,
a stretch of reclaimed land, which runs along the back of the riverside colleges.
During spring it is covered with a blanket of daffodils and crocuses. Jesus Green is the
perfect space to enjoy a walk, picnic or sports. Its outdoor swimming pool is ideal for
warmer days. Escape the crowds and seek out Cambridge University Botanic Gardens
featuring 40 acres of seasonal gardens and glasshouses.
Sitting on the very western edge of the Fens, Whittlesey, not only has glorious
walks with an abundance of wildlife but an interesting maze of streets with a mix of
architecture spanning several centuries. Only a few minutes from the city centre of
Peterborough is the glorious Nene Park. Stretching out over four acres along the
River Nene, this is the perfect spot for picnics, bird watching, walking, cycling, riding,
watersports and golf.
Essex
Quaint villages, country walks and lively seaside resorts, when the weather warms
Essex is a delight. Enjoy the thrill of travelling through the countryside on a steam train
at Colne Valley Railway. The pretty line is almost a mile long, with relocated station
buildings, signal boxes and bridges all lovingly restored or rebuilt. The Gardens of
Easton Lodge is an idyllic haven which has been partially restored to its former glory
by a team of dedicated volunteers and the owners of Warwick House. Expect beautiful
seasonal blooms and colourful displays.
Colchester is a metropolis for heritage. Spend the day discovering Colchester
Museum’s archaeology collection, step back in time and race a Roman chariot, explore
behind the scenes on a guided tour or hire one of the tablets and watch history come
to life before your very eyes. From here, take a walk around Castle Park with pretty
gardens, expansive green space and history.
23

LIFESTYLE
Norfolk
Norfolk certainly isn’t short of open
spaces; wind swept beaches, nature
reserves and forest. There are endless
spots to enjoy. However, the county’s
stately homes are probably best visited
in spring as the grounds dazzle with
colourful flowers and fresh blooms.
Blickling Estate is a breath-taking
red-brick mansion. Ancient yew hedges
sit at the heart of a magnificent garden
and historic park in the beautiful Bure
Meadows. During spring the grounds
come alive with daffodils and seasonal
flora. Don’t miss bluebell season at the
end of April and throughout May. Feel
like royalty and walk the grounds of the
Sandringham Estate. It is the ideal place
for a day out with lots to see and do, and
seasonal events.
If you fancy some fresh air and a gentle
stroll, visit Fairhaven. The Garden is an
eclectic mix of native and cultivated
plantings with a network of dyke
systems and a private broad. There are
four miles of woodland pathways and
boat trips to enjoy, which are great for
spotting local wildlife.
Hertfordshire
Home to historic houses, beautiful
gardens, farms and wildlife parks,
and market towns, there’s something
new to discover every weekend
in Hertfordshire. Put your best foot
forward with a walk in the grounds of
Hatfield House. There are three walks
with varying lengths that explore the
parkland. Spend the day exploring
Knebworth House complete with a
maze and walled kitchen garden. Visit
the House, where knowledgeable
guides will tell you the stories of
Knebworth’s long history.
For a day of culture, experience Henry
Moore’s iconic work against the
backdrop of the beautiful Hertfordshire
countryside with a visit to the artist’s
former home, studios and sculpture
gardens. Exhibitions change regularly
throughout the year.
A great family day out, Willows Activity
Farm, features daily Peter Rabbit and
Friends Shows, tractor rides, indoor and
outdoor adventure play areas and lots of
farmyard favourites. During springtime
you can watch live sheep shearing.
24

LIFESTYLE
From coast to country, hop between the
sleepy villages, bustling towns and rustic
seaside shores of Suffolk.
Suffolk
Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire may be one of England’s
smallest counties but it’s still a joyful
place to live and visit. Throughout
its wonderful countryside you’ll find
picturesque towns and villages such as
Woburn and Ampthill, great places to
eat and drink and renowned attractions
such as the Safari Park and Woburn
Abbey House and Gardens, which is
scheduled to reopen in spring 2022.
Explore some of the county’s parks.
Rushmore Country Park is a great
place to enjoy the outdoors and view
herons nesting in spring. There are
400 acres of woodland, heathland and
meadows offering walking, cycling and
horse-riding trails with play areas and
a treetop café. There’s even a fun area
designed for dogs. Barton-le-Clay is a
village at the foot of the beautiful Barton
Hills. Visit the chalk stream river where
children can splash around in wellies.
It’s also home to the The Olde Watermill
Shopping Village with independent
stores, crazy golf, restaurant, a tearoom,
antique centre and children’s play area.
From coast to country, hop between
the sleepy villages, bustling towns
and rustic seaside shores of Suffolk.
Take a long walk along the footpath at
Oford Ness and climb the small spiral
staircases of the castle to be rewarded
with magnificent views. It’s a great
place for foodies. Enjoy tea, cake and
pastries at Pump Street Bakery or try
the legendary oysters at Butley Orford
Oysterage. Walk along the pier at
Southwold while tucking into fish and
chips or stroll along long the water’s
edge lined with wild reeds at Snape
Maltings in Aldeburgh before browsing
the independent boutiques, vintage
stores and galleries.
The Muesum of East Anglian Life is set
in 75 acres of beautiful countryside.
Learn about fascinating East Anglian
crafts and traditional Gypsy culture and
discover splendidly restored historic
buildings.
Everyone knows about the castle on
the hill, thanks to local lad and superstar
Ed Sheeran, and quite right too, this is a
Suffolk gem. Framlingham Castle was
once upon a time a fearsome fortress.
Head behind the castle’s towering walls
and discover its fascinating history with
its exhibition, take in stunning views and
finish with Tudor treats at the café.
25

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Plan your next staycation with
a mini break at Norfolk’s most
stylish cottage
A Romantic
Norfolk Hideaway
Written by Emma Kemsley | @emma_kemsley
The fields of swaying reeds speed by in a flash. The villages we
pass are lined with flint cottages, some grand and glass fronted,
others small and cobbled, standing the test of time. The road
becomes narrow and we slowly drive down a winding lane into
the heart of North Norfolk’s countryside. With every minute that
passes it feels as though we’re escaping further away from the
troubled world and entering a secret location where only my
husband and I exist.
We park directly outside Spinks Nest Cottage; a small flinted
bolthole in the village of Hunworth. A cast iron table for two sits
on the gravel outside and we bustle our way into the cottage
to escape the icy wind. Instantly, our eyes dart around taking
in every colour and detail of the meticulous interiors that
somehow seem effortless. The cottage is a feast for the senses.
Cute and cosy, it boasts a home away from home vibe. Within
little time we had lit the fire, poured a gin and sat blissfully curled
up in the armchair, book in hand.
28

The Interior
Curated to perfection, reclaimed and vintage items sit alongside
rustic textures and textiles. Earthy and natural shades provide a
sense of adventure. The living space is inviting with its exposed
flint fireplace and log burner, cosy armchairs and reclaimed oak
beams. Taking centre stage is the green dresser decorated with
a decanter and glasses, dried flowers and a pheasant feathered
wreath.
The wooden kitchen shelves are stacked with glassware and
botanicals, and the old worn timber table calls for a homemade
supper. Spinks Nest brings the outdoors in with its collection
of potted plants and herbs. The kitchen itself is high spec with
everything you need for a self-catered break.
The cottage has been cleverly designed to make the most of
every nook. The living space is raised from the kitchen. Curtains
subtly divide the lounge and bedroom area. The king size bed
with its hypoallergenic wool mattress and divine linen is the kind
of bed you sink into and never want to leave. A rustic ladder
makes for a cool alternative wardrobe.
If you’re not already sold on a staycation here, the bath will
secure the deal. A quirky architectural feature, the sunken microcement
bath for two is the perfect place to spend the evening.
Light the candles, pour the Champagne and simply relax
amongst the bubbles.
It’s not just the eclectic interiors that set this holiday home apart
from the rest, it’s those little touches too. Those you wouldn’t
necessarily miss, but are appreciative to have; Jo Malone pillow
mist, Aesop shower gel, a welcome gin, Nespresso machine
and pantry basics.
The Location
While Norfolk’s biggest lure is its vast beaches, the countryside
is also a delight to explore. Set in the village of Hunworth, Spinks
Nest is a couple minutes’ walk to The Hunny Bell which serves
up tasty pub grub. There are miles of footpaths which take you
through fields and tiny lanes, especially great if you have your
dog in tow. Explore the woodlands and spot the wildlife at Holt
Country Park, which can be reached by a picturesque walk from
the cottage in approximately 45 minutes.
If you can’t resist the call of Norfolk’s shores, Weybourne,
Sheringham, Cley and Blakeney are within easy reach by car.
This is the ideal location to hop between sleepy country villages
and rustic seaside towns.
The Lifestyle
Spinks Nest compels you to embrace a slower pace of life.
Leisurely mornings with coffee in bed, afternoon snoozing by
a crackling fire and evenings drinking wine over a game of
Scrabble. It’s simple living at its finest.
A romantic escape for two, the cottage is one of the few
undiscovered gems of Norfolk. I felt as though I’d been given
the keys to a secret hideaway for only those in the know.
Though, I doubt it will stay under the radar for long, I expect
there will soon be a waiting list for availability.
We departed relaxed and refreshed but with a feeling of
sadness as we headed back to real life. This is one of those
holiday rentals that you don’t want to leave, and you driveaway
planning your return.
Booking details:
www.spinksnest.booksterhq.com
Instagram @spinks.nest.cottage
29

Life
on the
Broads
Discover the best boat hire to start your
journey on the Norfolk Broads
30

Think of Norfolk, and for most, the Broads immediately
comes to mind. The National Park features over 125
miles of lock free waterways, meandering its way through
stunning countryside and historic towns and villages. It’s
the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day
out at any time of year.
Boat hire
Without a doubt the best way to see the Broads is by
boat. Hiring your own boat for the day is an exhilarating
experience, it’s a chance to get up close with the beauty of
the Broads and feel like a captain for the day – no wonder
it appeals to almost everyone. Families, groups of friends
and couples – boat hire is big business on the Broads.
A Google search will list hundreds of companies offering
both day hire and boating holidays, but there are a few
that have been around for generations. Norfolk Broads
Direct have been specialising in boating holidays for over
100 years. It has a modern fleet of luxury cruisers available
to pick up from the ‘capital of the Broads’, Wroxham. It
also has riverside cottages available for hire for those that
prefer to stay on dry land.
Boating holidays
Potter Heigham is another popular place to begin your
Broads journey. It is home to Herbert Woods, which has had a
presence on the Broads for nine decades. The ‘Adventuring
Light,’ a small compact cruiser is perfect for couples and
first-time boaters. The boat is easy to moor with an in-built bow
thruster and a central steering position.
If you fancy taking to the Broads in old school style, you
can hire ‘Spark of Light’; Herbert Woods’ original wooden
motor cruiser. The wooden boat, built in 1927, captures the
old-time cruising fashion of idyllic motor boating in that era,
with in-built mod-cons you would expect to find in its modern
fleet of boats. It has been refurbished, ready to hire to couples,
families and boating enthusiasts for week-long breaks.
Sailing on the Broads
Fancy sailing? Hunter’s Yard in Ludham offers the opportunity
to get behind the sail with its fleet of 14 engineless cabin
yachts and seven half deckers (day boats) available for hire.
You can take a two-hour class with an experienced skipper or
holiday and learn to sail at the same time.
Wroxham is a popular place to start your journey. It also
makes a great day out even if you’re not planning to
take to the water. Famed for Roys, said to be the world’s
largest village store, it is home to plenty of places to eat,
a terminus of Bure Valley Railway and the popular family
attractions of BeWILDerwood and Wroxham Barns.
Pubs on the Norfolk Broads
If you’re hiring a boat from Wroxham get to grips with
your vessel as you make your way to Horning, a popular
pit-stop for boaters. Dotted along this stretch of water are
The Innkeeper’s Lodge, The Swan and New Inn, great for
a spot of lunch on the water’s edge. Just be prepared to
wait for a mooring spot in the summer months.
Things to do
Of course, you don’t have to hire a boat to enjoy this part of
Norfolk. There are plenty of cottage and apartments available,
which make a great base for other activities such as fishing
and wildlife spotting. Keen anglers will love the wide range
of fishing on offer. Among the rivers and shallow lakes, the
waters are rich with bream, roach, eels, perch, rudd, tench,
carp and pike.
Get back to nature with a visit to one of the many nature
reserves or take a walk along nearly 200 miles of footpaths
and discover the wildlife and rare plants such as the nationally
protected fen orchid and crested buckler fern.
From here, make your way to Ranworth, a beautiful little
village which is home to St Helen’s Church, known as the
Cathedral of the Broads, a nature reserve and a fantastic
pub, The Maltsters. Ranworth is a popular place for
overnight mooring so it’s recommended you arrive prior to
sunset as space is limited.
Dotted along the Broads are picturesque villages, market
towns and some of the counties best-loved pubs. Are you
tempted yet?
For the best of the Broads including pubs,
accommodation and day trips visit
www.eastlife.co.uk and search ‘Norfolk Broads’.
31

One of East Anglia’s oldest commercial vineyards
producing a range of White, Red and Rosé wines
as well as Quality English Sparkling wines.
OPEN
Free admission to vineyard trail & wine-tasting
May to September - Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm
October to April - Fridays & Saturdays - 11am to 4pm
For full contact details and to view our online shop,
please visit our website:
www.shawsgate.co.uk
Shawsgate Vineyard, Badingham Road (B1120),
Framlingham. IP13 9HZ

On the
Grape
Vine
Due to COVID-19, tours may be
postponed. Check before visiting.
Forget Tuscan hills
and sunny Californian
countryside, the UK’s
wine industry is fast
gaining an international
reputation, and there’s
plenty to sample in the
East
Wine producers from around the world
are planting vines in the UK thanks to
chalky soil and the climate. Each year,
there’s a week dedicated to celebrating
England’s finest. This year English
Wine Week takes place 23-30 May. To
learn more or to pick up a bottle, we’ve
listed the best vineyards in the East of
England.
Weststreet Vineyard
West Street Wine Barn, West Street,
Coggeshall, CO6 1NS
Nestled in the countryside of charming
Coggeshall, the vineyard is a great
place for lunch or to celebrate a
special occasion. The shop sells
a good selection of wine and the
knowledgeable staff are on hand to help
you choose.
www.weststreetvineyard.co.uk
Crouch Ridge Vineyard
Fambridge Road, Althorne, Chelmsford
CM3 6BZ
Take a drive through Burnham-on-
Crouch in Essex and you could easily
mistake it for Tuscany as you drive
pass rows and rows of vines. Crouch
Ridge Vineyard is a wine barn, cellar
and vineyard all rolled into one. Tours
and tastings are offered throughout
the year. Owner Ross guides the tours,
leading groups through the rows of
vines used to produce Chardonnay and
Pinot Noir. Thanks to the River Crouch,
the temperature stays above freezing
meaning a harvest is rarely ruined by
frost. The tour is followed by a tasting
of three wines complete with notes and
tasting tips. Book lunch afterwards in the
restaurant, where you can dine al fresco
on the terrace overlooking the vineyard
and river. Wine is available to purchase,
and the Althorne Pinot Cuvee is highly
recommended.
www.crouchridge.com
Saffron Grange
Rowley Hill Farm, Saffron Walden,
CB10 1UZ
Saffron Grange is a family-run vineyard
located just 1.5 miles from the historic
market town of Saffron Walden. The
chalky soil on site tells its own historic
story and was once roamed by woolly
mammoths at the end of the last ice
age. Today the vineyard grows quality
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier,
Seyval Blanc and Pinot Gris grapes to
make premium sparkling wines. Saffron
Grange offers tours and tastings by
appointment from April to October. If
you can’t wait, they also occasionally
have a stall at Saffron Walden Market.
www.saffrongrange.com
New Hall Wines
Chelmsford Road, Purleigh, Chelmsford,
CM3 6PN
One of the oldest vineyards in England,
the family-run establishment has been
producing wine since 1969. A number
of tours are available throughout the
year, where visitors can learn more
about English wine and the vineyard’s
history. If you’re just passing, make a
stop at the shop and stock up on some
fine wine.
www.newhallwines.co.uk
34

Flint Vineyard
Camphill Farm, Middle Rd, Earsham,
Bungay NR35 2AH
Owned by Ben and Hannah Witchell,
the vineyard has had tremendous
success within just a few short years.
Thanks to the sheltered and sunny
slopes of the Waveney Valley the
vineyard is producing one of the
best Bacchus in the region. Tours are
available from £25 per person, plus
there’s the option of adding the ’15 Mile’
lunch which features the best of local
produce. www.flintvineyard.com
Winbirri Vineyard
Bramerton Road, Surlingham, NR14 7DE
Learn about the wine and vineyard
from head winemaker Lee Dyer, who
will show you around the vineyard and
provide an insight into the history, care
of the vines and the grapes grown in this
part of the region. If you’re passionate
about wine, enquire about ‘The W
Club’ which offers members exclusive
discounts and a hands-on experience
during the harvest season.
www.winbirri.com
Dedham Vale Vineyard
Green Lane, Colchester, CO4 5TS
Located in an Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty, the vineyard features
40 acres of vines, woods and pasture.
Visitors can explore the winery with a
tour and tasting where you’ll hear about
the vines and wine making process.
Lunch is included too!
www.dedhamvalevineyard.com
Giffords Hall
Hartest, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 4EX
The vineyard is perfect for a summer’s
day out. Join one of the vineyard tours
which includes a tasting of five wines
and a buffet lunch. Personalised and
private tours can also be booked. Don’t
leave without a browse of the vineyard
shop.
www.giffordshall.co.uk
Wyken Vineyard
Wyken Hall, Wyken Road, Stanton, Bury
St Edmunds, IP31 2DW
So much more than just a vineyard,
Wyken’s is also home to a country store,
beautiful gardens, farmers’ market
and restaurant. Wander through the
vineyard from the Leaping Hare over to
Home Meadow and through an ancient
woodland. Wines can be purchased
from the well-stocked store.
www.wykenvineyards.co.uk
Shawsgate Vineyard
Badingham Road, Woodbridge,
IP13 9HZ
The vineyard offers a choice of tour and
tasting experiences, which can also
include lunch or afternoon tea. Visit the
shop to mix and match a case of your
favourite wines.
www.shawsgate.co.uk
Valley Farm Vineyards
Rumburgh Road, Wissett, Halesworth,
IP19 0JJ
The eight-acre vineyard produces
vintage, single estate, still and sparkling
wines. A variety of tours are available
offering customers the chance to
sample wines and learn more about the
vineyard.
www.valleyfarmvineyards.co.uk
Chet & Waveney Vineyard
Loddon Road, Bergh Apton, NR15 1BT
The family run vineyard produces both
still and sparkling wines. Tours and
tastings are available by appointment.
For a one-off experience visit for the
grape harvest in late September, early
October, followed by a supper to
celebrate the vendange.
www.chetvineyard.co.uk
Humbleyard Vineyard
Paddock Farm Shop, Mulbarton,
NR14 8JT
With a history dating back to the Anglo-
Saxon times, the lands of the vineyard
have a story to tell. Pick up a map at the
farm shop and meander through the
grounds on a self-guided tour, before
picking up one of the award-winning
wines at the shop.
www.humbleyardenglishwine.co.uk
Chilford Hall
Balsham Road, Cambridge CB21 4LE
The vineyard is open to visitors from
March to October, with tours taking
place throughout the open season. The
pretty vineyard is home to 17,000 vines
of nine different varieties.
www.chilfordhall.co.uk
Warden Abbey Vineyard
Bedford Road, Biggleswade, SG18 9LS
It’s not often you come across a
community run vineyard. Leased
by Bedfordshire Rural Communities
Charity, it produces a handful of awardwinning
wines. Unfortunately, it’s not
open to the public and tours can only be
booked in advance. However, you can
support the vineyard by attending one
of its open days, a pre-booked tour or
pruning experience.
www.wardenvineyard.org.uk
35

Into theWild
Written by Bob Cox Wrightson | Twitter @bobcw
Ryan Dorling Wildlife Photography
Ryan Dorling Wildlife Photography
With exotic travels off the agenda for the time being,
why not discover the wilderness on your own doorstep?
From tapirs and terns to alpacas and bats, there’s sure to be something
for you to discover among the creatures of the Wild East. Here is our
round-up of the most exciting, outdoor wildlife adventures to be had
in the region.
36

Nightingale Extravaganza
Wednesday,29 April
Nightingales get into full voice as spring really gets going,
and late April is a great time for this star songbird singer.
Led by David Grimwood of The Froize Inn, Chillesford, the
tour begins at 8am with tea or coffee and an introductory
chat followed by a masterclass on searching for
Nightingales and other birds that you may come across.
The trip finishes at 1pm with a scrumptious lunch back at
the Inn, where you can relax, enjoy your meal and discuss
your morning’s sightings.
Priced: £35 including masterclass and lunch.
www.suffolkbirding.co.uk/east-coast-safaris
Bat Safari Punting
Join the Wildlife Trust on a ‘Bat Safari’ punt for adventures at
dusk on Grantchester Meadows. The local bat population
emerges from hibernation in May, with several species
flying close to the water and the punts. The chauffeured tours
are led by knowledgeable Wildlife Trust bat experts and
they’ll make sure you get the most from your experience,
including the use of specialist electronic bat detectors which
convert the bats’ sonar signals into audible frequencies.
Your guide will outline the characteristics and habitats of bats
likely to be encountered on your trip and teach you how to
use the detectors.
www.scudamores.com/bat-safari-punting
Deer Safari
Seal Trip
A ‘must do’ when visiting the Norfolk coast is a trip to see the
seals at Blakeney Point. It’s a treat to see the common and grey
seals lolling about on the shore, with the more inquisitive of these
marine mammals swimming up to the boat to say hello. This area
of the coast is also famous for its bird life, with its most popular
summer visitors being the terns – mainly common, sandwich
and little terns and, quite often, Arctic terns. The popular sea trips
operate from early spring, leaving from Morston Quay.
Ryan Dorling Wildlife Photography Ryan Dorling Wildlife Photography
Snettisham Park is a 329-acre working farm, featuring a
spectacular deer safari, where you can meet their magnificent
red deer herd. The tractor and covered trailer, or Safari Land
Rover ride, is an experience not to be missed. During the
45-minute round trip you will meet, and be able to feed, the
spectacular herd of red deer with over 60 hinds and two
stags. You can be sure to get an amazing close encounter
with the deer, all of which are more than happy to feed from
your hands.
Running every hour from 11am.
Pre-booking essential 48 hours in advance by calling
01485 542425.
www.snettishampark.co.uk
Alpaca Trekking
Have you ever thought of becoming an alpaca trekker? Well,
if you like your wildlife cute and fluffy, alpacas are for you!
Let’s Go Alpacas in Wretham offers a 40-minute walk through
the lovely scenery of Thetford Forest with these amazing and
characterful creatures, with time for a selfie stop along the
way. Alpacas are adorable and well natured, although they
can be lovably stubborn! Hand feeding is also available, so
that you can give your walking companion a tasty treat.
www.hedinghamalpacas.co.uk/lets-go-alpacas
Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park
You’ve probably seen Jimmy Doherty on TV on Jimmy’s
Farm, but did you know that he also has a wildlife park? Get
up close with crocodiles, camels, capybara and skunks,
and book for a private animal encounter. Join one of the
experienced keepers in the animal enclosure of your choice.
Here you will get the opportunity to learn about the animals
whilst giving them a feed, grooming them or even giving
them a bath! Experiences include Reptile Madness, where
you will meet tortoises, snakes, lizards and crocodiles, and
Tapir Tummy Rubs, where you can get hands on with Teddy
and Tip Tap, their two adorable lowland Tapir.
www.jimmysfarm.com/farm-wildlife-park-zoo
Priced: adults £13, children £7
Booking recommended by phone: 01263 740505 or
01263 740038.
www.beansboattrips.co.uk
37

ON LOCATION DOG
PHOTOGRAPHY
AT ITS FINEST
WWW.NIGELWALLACEPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
PHONE: 07720 834868
EMAIL: WALLACENIGEL@YMAIL.COM
38

Tails About
Town:
Poo Parade
Written by Emma Kemsley
This is not the first time I have spoken about Fletcher’s pooing habits for a light-hearted
read, but it always makes for entertainment, and I think we’re all in need of some comical
relief.
I should’ve known he would be trouble. When he was a puppy, he chose to poop in the
middle of a main road during rush hour, stopping traffic. I politely waved an apology to
each driver while I desperately waited for him to finish.
On our strolls through our local town, he’ll often wait until he is in the middle of the market
to have his morning poo despite being given the option to do so in the park. The more
people, the better. He’ll of course choose the most awkward location too. The middle of a
crowd or the alleyway that joins the car park and Market Square, which causes a queue as
people wait for him to finish and for us to pick up the waste. It’s mortifying.
Not only does he choose the busiest location, but he poops strangely with his bum flat
to the floor. He’ll look around to ensure all eyes are on him. He sure knows how to be the
centre of attention. He recently got caught in a bramble bush mid-poo. Cue the dramatics.
This time though, he’s need for an audience has pushed me to my humiliation limits.
Cambridge was quiet. Almost ghostly. All except for what I assume was a Bollywood
film set outside King’s College. We strolled along the King’s Parade past the actors and
camera crew of at least fifty men. And that’s the moment. The moment Fletcher decided
he’ll do the biggest poo of his life. Bum to the floor, he looked eagerly around, mouth open
as though he was grinning, and took his sweet time to relieve himself.
We were met with daggers from a film crew who couldn’t quite believe what they were
witnessing. As I held up an apologetic hand and waited for him to finish, my husband
flapped with a poo bag. Seconds seemed to last minutes as we felt a hundred eyes on us.
My husband picked up the poo, which looked like it belonged to a mini horse, in a
haste. Not quite content with his poo performance, Fletcher then decided to howl while
standing on his hind legs as an ambulance siren signalled in the distance. If you’re not
familiar with his howling, visit www.eastlife.co.uk/article/tails-about-town-nothingbut-a-hound-dog
My husband and I looked at each other and laughed. What else could we do?
39

A lasting tribute
to those no longer
with us
A new tribute site from Wood Green, The Animals Charity gives
pet lovers the opportunity to celebrate the life of a beloved friend,
family member or pet by creating a space to come together, share
anecdotes and keep the memories of loved ones alive. Giving a
gift in someone’s memory is a wonderful way to commemorate
their life, whilst also supporting Wood Green’s work.
Jensen Calleemootoo, from Wood Green’s In-Memory Giving
team, said: “Losing someone is never easy and we understand
how painful it can be. Although nothing can replace them, we
know that many people find a great deal of comfort and purpose
by creating a tribute fund in their name, for a cause close to their
heart. By donating or fundraising around key milestones such as
birthdays and anniversaries, those loved ones stay with us forever
– and help Wood Green be there for even more pets in need.”
Funds raised through the tribute site will help cover the cost
of providing veterinary treatment and daily care to pets like Tia
(pictured above). Tia, a six-year-old Rottweiler Cross, was brought
to Wood Green’s Godmanchester centre in May as her owner
was too unwell to keep her. The charity has so far spent more
than £1,400 on veterinary treatment, food and supplies for Tia,
and their dedicated team will continue taking good care of her
until the perfect new home is found. This is only possible through
the generosity of Wood Green’s supporters.
For Len, a gift to Wood Green was the perfect way to honour his
late wife, Val: “Leaving a lasting tribute to Val means her love for
animals lives on through the care Wood Green gives to homeless
pets. Supporting a cause which brought her so much joy and
happiness gives me comfort. I have something positive to focus
on, despite the pain I felt since losing her.”
Based in Cambridgeshire, Wood Green rehabilitates and rehomes
around 3,500 dogs, cats and small animals each year. Many of
these pets require intensive veterinary and behavioural care before
they are ready to be matched with a new home. Going beyond
this, Wood Green also supports pet owners with free one-to-one
advice and behavioural support, expert-led online training classes
and workshops, and even financial support to help cover the cost
of pet care (subject to assessment).
To find out more about setting up a tribute fund for a loved one,
please visit inmemory.woodgreen.org.uk or contact Wood
Green’s In-Memory Giving team on 0300 303 9333 option 3.
Celebrate
the memory
of a loved
one
Setting up a tribute fund
is a wonderful way to
commemorate a life whilst
making a difference to
pets in need.
Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Registered Charity No. 298348 009011KS0221
Visit www.inmemory.woodgreen.org.uk
or call our In-Memory Giving team
on 0300 303 9333 option 3
40

Raising Frenchies from
the Ashes, with TLC
Phoenix French Bulldog Rescue has been established in the UK
since 2017 not only to offer a home to any French Bulldog, or
cross-breed thereof, in need within the UK, but also to educate
the public on this wonderful breed, promote and support good
ownership and to help keep Frenchies at home with their families
wherever possible. Sometimes, people just need advice and
support to be able to manage and keep their pet, at other times
they need our non-judgemental, professional help in rehoming
their dog. As much as we can often be heard to say that it is ‘all
about the dog’ we never lose sight of the fact that there is often
a broken-hearted human at the end of a surrendered dog’s
lead. We will never judge and all our volunteers are mindful of
this. Other dogs may be genuine ‘rescues’ and our Team are
well-versed in collecting these and seeking appropriate medical
attention immediately, before they even reach their specialist
foster-homes where the real mending can begin. All our dogs
receive the very best care, medically and psychologically, during
foster and afterwards in adoption. We will never turn away a
dog in genuine need unless there are extremely exceptional
circumstances
For General Enquiries please call 0300 772 7716 or
email: enquiries@phoenixfrenchbulldogrescue.org
www.phoenixfrenchbulldogrescue.org
Registered Charity No. 1171943

Doggy Days Out
Bored of the same walks? You may be surprised
to know some of the region’s best-loved family
attractions are dog-friendly too
While lockdown may have been great for discovering new walks
on your doorstep, the same scenery can get a little tiresome, not
just for us humans, but dogs too. As restrictions ease why not treat
your dog to a day out? It will be a blast for the family and a sensory
delight for wet noses.
Audley End House &
Gardens
Audley End Road, Saffron Walden
Explore stunning gardens in the
shadow of the grand stately mansion.
The English Heritage property features
manicured lawns and pretty gardens,
perfect for a dog walk. Dogs must be
kept on a lead at all times and are not
allowed inside the house, however
the landscape makes up for it. There’s
plenty of opportunities for a picnic
under the trees and on the green by
the water. Dogs are not allowed inside
the café, but there are picnic benches
within the grounds.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/
places/audley-end-house-andgardens
Epping Ongar Railway
Station Approach, Ongar
Hop aboard a steam engine train and
journey through the Essex countryside.
Well behaved dogs are welcome on the
railway at no extra charge. Dogs are not
permitted on the dining trains, but there
is plenty of other options. Should your
companion feel thirsty, there are usually
water bowls on the platforms.
www.eorailway.co.uk
Hedingham Castle
Bayley Street, Hedingham
Step back in time and admire the castle
and its surrounding grounds. Dogs are
very welcome, except on event days.
Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times
and are not permitted in the Castle itself,
but there are lots of lovely walks nearby.
www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk
Lady Grace Boat Trips
Coast Road, West Mersea
Feel the wind in your hair (or fur) as you
take to the seas. Well behaved dogs are
welcome aboard with their owners to
enjoy a 20-minute trip on the estuary.
The boat departs seven days a week
from the crabbing jetty. Trips must be
booked in advance.
www.essexboattrips.co.uk
42

The Suffolk Punch Trust
Sink Farm, St David’s Lane, Woodbridge
An educational and environmental
charity dedicated to breeding and
preserving the Suffolk Punch horse.
Take one of the three pretty walks
around the farm where dogs are
welcome on leads.
www.thesuffolkpunchtrust.co.uk
West Stow Country Park
Icklingham Road, West Stow
Explore 125 acres of countryside
featuring trails, heaths and woodlands.
There’s beauty at every turn but due to
the abundance of wildlife, dogs must be
kept on leads.
Bury St Edmunds
The historic market town has a dogfriendly
initiative in place, which helps
residents and visitors identify which
businesses are dog-friendly. Many pubs,
cafes and shops are happy to welcome
pooches. Take a walk around the town,
explore its parks and stop off for a bite
to eat. There are plenty of water bowls
dotted around too!
www.visit-burystedmunds.co.uk
Outland Broads
Discover walkways along the water.
Carlton and Oulton Marshes are a jewel
of the Suffolk Broads with its flora and
fauna. From Carlton Marsh hop on the
passenger ferry crossing the river to
Burgh St Peter and the Waveney River
Centre.
Bure Valley Railway
Norwich Road, Aylsham
Pooches are welcome to hop aboard on
the trains and walk beside the line with
their owner. Fresh water is provided,
and a marquee will be available for
shade in hot weather. Dogs are not
permitted inside the café, but dog
parking hitches are available.
www.bvrw.co.uk
Redwings Horse
Sanctuary
Alysham & Coldecott
Support this hard-working charity that
rescues and cares for over 2,000 horses,
ponies, donkeys and mules. Take a walk
around the centre with your dog on lead
and learn more about the care of the
animals. There are Norfolk Pooch’s dog
treats for sale in the shop too.
www.redwings.org.uk
Blickling Estate
Blickling
Understandably dogs are not allowed
in the house or gardens but there are
four miles of glorious walks within the
grounds. During the spring the forest is
alive with colour with a beautiful display
of daffodils and bluebells.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blicklingestate
Salhouse Broad
Lower Street, Salhouse
Salhouse Broad is a great place to
moor with your dog. Dogs can paddle
in the water before taking a stroll into
the village, where they are welcome at
the Fur & Feathers Pub. Be respectful
of local wildlife and rules; dogs are not
allowed on nature serves and must be
kept on lead at Whitlingham Broads.
Wimpole Estate
Arrington
The grounds of this working estate are
guided by the seasons. Visit during
spring for a spectacular display of
seasonal flora. Dogs are welcome on
lead in the park.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpoleestate
Knebworth House
Old Knebworth Lane, Stevenage
Enjoy the ancient chestnut and lime
avenues. The park is a perfect setting
for country picnics and walks. Wellbehaved
dogs on leads are welcome in
Knebworth Park, but are not permitted
in the House, Gardens, Dinosaur Trail or
inside Fort Knebworth, however there’s
still plenty of ground to explore.
www.knebworthhouse.com
Jordan’s Mill
Southill Road, Broom
Dogs are welcome to dine with owners
on the veranda and enjoy the beautiful
meadows and gardens.
www.jordansmill.com
43

East Anglia State Secondary School of the Decade
Colchester Royal Grammar School
01206 509100 crgs.co.uk
CRGS provides a rich education for its students and promotes their personal development
through outstanding pastoral care, extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities.
It is one of the top-performing schools in the country and one of very few state boarding
schools, with family-style boarding houses designed for 30 Sixth Form students.
Visit our website to find out more,
download a prospectus and
take a virtual tour of the school.
44

A
Virtual
World
What is the future of
school open days?
It’s safe to say lockdowns and COVID restrictions have propelled
education into a new realm. Online classes and home-schooling
have tested families across the country. But it’s not just everyday
teaching causing stress, concerned parents are at a loss on how
to choose a school for their child when they are unable to visit.
Schools are quickly adapting to make the process as simple as
possible for parents and potential students. Like many events,
open days and evenings are moving online. Though it may be
unconventional, schools such as Impington International College
in Cambridge, are urging parents to participate.
Vice Principal, Johanna Sale, said: “My main piece of advice for
parents is to approach virtual events as though they are face to
face events. Of course, one of the benefits of a virtual event is that
you can watch the recorded sessions on-demand, but this is no
substitute for attending the live event because you will be relying
on other people to ask the questions that you want answered.
Due to life behind screens, it’s more important than ever to get
involved in the conversations and actively ask the questions that
you want to know.”
It is key for parents to have a list of questions ready to ask during a
Q&A session once the presentation is over. If your question hasn’t
been answered, voice your query. Grades are a good indication
of a school’s performance, but care and support are essential for
a child’s wellbeing too.
Sale continued: “We would encourage any prospective parent
and their children to focus on speaking to the students at the
open events they are attending. Delve into the students’ minds, as
they will have all of the key information that sometimes teachers
can’t provide.”
If you’re still undecided on a school, contact administrations
directly to see if a private viewing can be arranged following
government safety guidelines and restrictions.
45

Life
To make children ready for life means
for
them into flexible, innovative,
developing
Ready
dynamic and resilient young adults.
Virtual Open Morning and Individual Online Tours
available now.
Discover more at culford.co.uk
Independent boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 1-18.
rated as excellent in all areas.
ISI
transport links from Cambridge and Norwich.
Express
Set in 480 acres of beautiful parkland, in Suffolk.
Culford School is part of the Methodist Independent Schools Trust. Registered Charity No. 1142794. Company Number. 7649422.

The Benefits of
Boarding
Could your child benefit from boarding?
With more parents working full-time, quality family time can
get squeezed out by work obligations, the daily commute, the
school run, sports/music commitments and homework, which
makes boarding an opportunity for children to learn and grow.
Boarding can give children an academic boost,
independence and free up the time to take part in
extracurricular activities. While all children are different, many
excel in a boarding environment. Nadia Katevska, a student
at Brentwood School, Essex, who left in summer 2019, said:
“We are so advantaged because we have much more time for
studying.”
Most boarding schools will offer on-site facilities for students
to part-take in extra activities. From swimming pools,
running tracks, tennis courts and events, children are able to
demonstrate their skills and broaden their horizons through
the extracurricular activities available to them.
Though education, skills and independence may be at
the forefront of parent’s minds, the life-long friendships are
frequently the most valued experience by students. Culford
School, prep school housemistress, Melanie Detnon,
explained: “The fun, friendships, diverse activities and
experiences, the opportunity to develop responsibility for
themselves added to the academic and pastoral support
the children receive, are several factors which I believe make
boarding so valuable and so special. I love to see the children
in my care thrive and grow in confidence and am honoured to
be both facilitator and cheerleader. Added to all of that, here in
our surroundings at Culford we have a wonderful mix of ages
and families from a variety of backgrounds, including Forces,
expat and local – what better preparation for life?​“
Both full and weekly boarding can have a positive influence
on children. Felsted School was shortlisted for TES Boarding
School of the Year 2020. Annabel from Suffolk, a pupil and
weekly boarder at Felsted, discussed the benefits of boarding:
“Being a weekly boarder at Felsted means I get the best of
both worlds. In the week I do not have to waste time travelling,
but have time to take part in all the activities on offer, get
support with my homework and have fun social time with my
friends.”
She continued: “At weekends, I can then enjoy quality time
with my family. The weeks are less stressful for the whole
family and I have become much more organised and
independent.”
Many of the region’s independent boarding schools are
hosting online open days and viewings by appointment
during COVID restrictions.
47

A world class
education
Impington International College, a sixth form on the
outskirts of Cambridge, gives students a personal sixth form
experience, where education can be tailored to students’
passions and interests.
World class education: The College is extremely proud to have
been teaching International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes
for 30 years, and describes them as curricula with added value.
Both the IB Diploma Programme (DP) and the IB Career-related
Programme (CP) offer students so much more than just subjects
in isolation; allowing for breadth and also depth of study,
something that students, and often parents, want from A Levels.
The programmes also offer a holistic approach to learning,
developing key skills and traits within students that they can take
with them into life beyond education.
Outstanding results: In 2020, 100% of students at the College
passed the DP and CP, and nearly a fifth (18%) of all students
achieved a point score of 40 or above, which is 7% higher than
the international average.
Destinations: The College’s academically driven cohort
achieves fantastic results and its alumni have gone on to attend
renowned higher education institutions around the world. In the
midst of students receiving their university offers for September
2021, four IB students at the College, have received conditional
and unconditional offers to study at the University of Oxford
and the University of Cambridge, reading Biology, English,
Geography and Mathematics.
Exciting scholarship programmes: As well as offering
students over 30 subjects to choose from, Impington
International College also has a range of scholarship
programmes on offer. Those who wish to enter the professional
world of theatre and performing arts can choose to study
at the Performance School and work with leading industry
professionals alongside their studies, while those with a high
interest in sport can train alongside their studies through one of
the College’s professional sports scholarships.
Development of the whole student: Through the core
elements of the DP and CP, students are given the opportunity to
gain experience of team work, decision making, problem solving,
access to a second language and undertake an independent
in-depth piece of work similar to what the work they will complete
at university.
Impington International College students are motivated to
succeed, with options that allow students to realise their goals
and progress confidently into the next stages of learning,
opening up a world of opportunities for them beyond the
school gate.
To find out more about Impington International College, visit:
impingtoninternational.org.uk
Quality of care: Every individual in the sixth form is known. The
small class sizes ensure high contact time with teachers so that
individual needs are met and the close-knit environment allows
students to flourish, both academically and socially.
48

e: international@ivc.tmet.org.uk
t: 01223 200 402
w: impingtoninternational.org.uk
A World Class IB education from
Impington International College –
your ticket to a world of opportunity
With a 100% pass rate for the IB, our students go on to study at Oxbridge,
Russell Group, Ivy League and leading European universities.
We are still accepting applicants for September 2021. Contact us to book
an individual meeting.
The UK’s top non-selective provider of
the International Baccalaureate (IB) -
Sunday Times Parent Power list 2020
ImpingtonIntCol
impingtonintcol
ImpingtonInternationalCollege

Felsted
for me
Leading all-round education with pupil wellbeing at its
heart. Give your child the space to thrive with our variety
of modern boarding & day options. Based on a safe rural
campus in stunning North Essex, with daily bus routes
from across the region.
Developing character, making a difference.
Co-educational, ages 4-18, boarding & day.
Open Morning: Saturday 8 May
Visit felsted.org to register and explore our Virtual Tours & Events
#felstedforme
Felsted-East-Life-March-21-v2.indd 1 26/02/2021 12:26:37
50

LITTLE EAST
Mum’s the
Word:
A Time
for Hope
Written by Dolly Osborne | www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com
Somehow, we have got to the point where vaccines are no
longer a part of our routine but are something controversial. To
me the word vaccination summons up memories of queuing
up in our vests at primary school or the memory of being a sixth
former getting her BCG vaccine late and yet insisting the school
nurse held my hand even though it meant losing face in front of
the younger kids.
Now vaccinations are a tricky topic; talk of them quickly
becomes emotional and divisive with everyone concerned
insisting that they are doing the right thing for their child
whether they be pro or anti-vax. Indeed, the subject is so
emotionally loaded that I was hesitant to even bring it into my
light-hearted mummy column for fear of alienating readers
but given the state of the country right now, I feel it’s the only
parenting issue I could possibly address.
COVID-19 has turned our world upside down. It has brought so
many losses with it; the devastating loss of life, loss of freedoms,
of celebrations, the loss of close contact and time together as
families, losses that are too vast to even summarise here.
New Year to most of us is a time of hope. It’s a run up to spring
and new life, fresh starts and in 2021 much of the optimism
of the new year seems to be attached to the arrival of the
COVID-19 vaccination rollout. It promises so many of us hope.
Hope that some semblance of normalcy will return. Hope
that we can see friends and family that we have missed all
year. Hope that our lives can take place outside of the virtual
recreation centres that we have had to build and rely on. This
ray of light is the thing helping me get out of bed every day. Yet
every bit of light brings a shadow and I fear that the shadow
attached to this optimism is fear of vaccination.
I’m not an immunisation specialist but I was a nurse for 15 years
and I know that for any vaccination program to be successful
a certain percentage of the population has to participate. Right
now, I’m scared that the chance for my son to get back to
school, to see his grandparents, his aunt, his cousin, that all of
this might be scuppered by fear.
I never thought as an adult I’d long for those days of queueing
in my vest in the primary school corridors, but I do. Back then
we all felt like one community coming together to keep us all
healthy; I really hope we are still.
Find Dolly on Twitter @Osborneosaurus
51

Easter
at Home
10 eggs-cellent things you can do at home
this Easter
Written by Liz Mattock | www.wolfauthor.com
52

LITTLE EAST
With another national lockdown imposed earlier in the year and
some restrictions still in place, it has been difficult for everyone
to make Easter plans. Hopefully we’ll be able to at least enjoy
walks in the countryside and trips to local parks, but just in case
we have put together 10 things to do at home with the family
this Easter.
Why not host a virtual tea party? Invite friends and family to
join you online via Zoom or Skype, with a cup of tea in hand
and a slice of cake. It’s a great way to catch up when you can’t
meet up.
Organise an Easter egg hunt either around the house or in your
garden. Plan ahead and prepare some clues that little kids and
big kids alike can follow to find their favourite chocolate. Hiding
places can be easier for smaller children and more challenging
for older ones.
Have a hot chocolate and movie night. Stock up on hot
chocolate powder, milk, marshmallows, cream and sprinkles
when you next visit the supermarket. Then pick a film and settle
in for the afternoon. Great Easter themed family films include
‘Peter Rabbit’ or ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. If it’s just
you and your other half and the children are in bed, watch
‘Chocolat’ or an old classic ‘Easter Parade’.
No doubt the children will miss meeting up with friends this
Easter at school fetes and fairs. Get in touch with other parents
and arrange for your child and their friends to meet up online
for an Easter quiz. Parents get to supervise as they will need a
quizmaster and to make sure no one cheats, plus the winner
gets a prize; an Easter egg.
Kids love getting messy. Choose a time where you can put a
few hours aside to get creative. Clear a space, collect together
any crafts, paints, pens, pencils and materials you have and let
their imagination run wild as they create the most outlandish
Easter pictures that they can think of to demonstrate what
Easter means to them. This is a great way for kids to let out all
their energy and boosts their mood by getting them to think
creatively.
If you are a larger family, ask your children to put on a play. Now
we’re not talking the Von Trap family here but something simple
that they can put together and perform for you. If you are tech
savvy you could always record them on your phone to send to
grandparents, aunts and uncles to enjoy too.
Make home-schooling a little more interesting, so interesting
that they won’t even realise they are learning whilst helping you
to bake a cake or cook a simple meal. Ask your child to join you
in the kitchen and give them tasks relevant to their age. Little
ones can mix cake mixture or add decorations to cakes and
older ones can help with measuring ingredients. Each one will
be so focussed on doing their job right that there won’t be time
for squabbles.
Get out in the garden and plant some flowers and vegetables.
Get outside and get digging. Perfect bulbs to plant in April
include sunflowers. We’ve all had that childhood photo posing
next to our first sunflower, right?
If you don’t have a large garden, head to the Garden Centre to
pick up a small planter and some seeds and teach the kids how
to grow their own vegetables. April is the perfect time to sow
peas, carrots, lettuce and radishes.
Have an indoor or outdoor picnic. Just because there are
certain restrictions outside our homes doesn’t mean we have
to stay indoors when we can get out into the garden. Get the
children involved in making sandwiches, homemade lemonade
and cakes, grab something to sit on and some cutlery and
take your lunch outside. That way everyone gets some fresh
air and the whole family can enjoy the experience without
being distracted by computer games, the television and mobile
phones.
Try these simple, budget-friendly suggestions and you’ll
soon find even the most energetic children are entertained
this Easter.
53

Wildlife Reserve is
ahead of the curve
The next few years will see huge changes in farming and
agriculture in the UK as the new Agricultural Bill asks farmers
to both produce more food and protect the environment. It is a
challenge that involves a fine balance between farming highly
productive soil for crops and being brave enough to recognise
that some soil is better taken out of farming and used in other
ways.
Edward Pope is ahead of the curve when it comes to finding
this balance. His venture, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve has been
created on 170 acres of old quarries, lakes and woodland,
previously used for monoculture farming practices. Ed Pope says
the land that makes up the reserve had limited yield potential and
was simply not suitable for modern sustainable agriculture.
twenty-five deer and antelope species, not to mention rare birds,
including the star of the show – the Great Bustard. With many
of the birds and animals on the endangered list, Watatunga
provides a safe haven and a place where important breeding
programmes are carried out.
While the fertile soils of the nearby fen continue to provide food
for the population, the team at Watatunga are leading the way
when it comes to re-imagining land use for the greatest good.
Watatunga re-opens to the public in April. Visit the website:
www.watatunga.co.uk for more information on their
accommodation and to book a guided tour of the wildlife reserve.
Gift vouchers are also available.
Fast forward three years and the once sterile site has been
restored to nature. Watatunga Wildlife Reserve, found in
Watlington near King’s Lynn, is now a wildlife paradise of
woodland, grasses and lakes and is home to more than

Farm
Life
Make your next family
day out a trip to the farm
56

LITTLE EAST
Life on the farm doesn’t stop for a pandemic, and while
it’s not certain attractions will open their gates for Easter,
new life still blossoms. Last year, many farms decided to
go virtual, posting videos, photos and answering children’s
questions about farm life. At the time of print, it’s unknown
what will happen this year, but it’s worth checking the
farms websites and social media pages to ensure you don’t
miss out on any action, be it a real visit or viewing from the
comfort of your own home. Here is our pick of farms to keep
on your radar.
Snettisham Park, Norfolk
A 329-acre working farm, a visit here can involve many
exciting adventures from seeing lambs being born to a
45-minute deer safari where you will see the magnificent
red deer herd. You can bottle feed lambs, collect fresh farm
eggs and ride ponies as well as taking a walk on one of
three wonderful trails. The farm has a shop selling its own
produce too.
www.snettishampark.co.uk
Suffolk Punch Trust, Suffolk
Home to stables and farmyard animals such as pigs, sheep,
cattle and chickens, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Explore
heritage exhibitions, walking trails and learn about the
Suffolk Punch breed. Visit the ducks, rabbits, goats and
guinea pigs at the Pets Paddocks. Complete your visit with a
bite to eat at the café. www.suffolkpunchtrust.org
Easton Farm Park, Suffolk
There’s a good mix of education and hands-on fun at this
farm. Get up close with the animals with pony rides,
bunny hugs and creepy crawlies. Explore the farm by
following its Green Trail and Meadow Walks. Let children
burn off energy at the adventure play area. Make the most
of your trip with an extended stay at the on-site campsite or
holiday cottages.
www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk
Wimpole Home Farm, Cambridgeshire
Petting, feeding, play areas, pretty gardens and walking
trails, this farm has it all. During lockdown closure the farm
has been virtually offering an insight into what life is like
on the farm. Visit the website to watch videos to meet new
arrivals including calves, lambs and piglets, watch horses
being exercised, seed sowing and the mucking out of the
pig pen!
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate
Mead Open Farm, Bedfordshire
Covering 30 acres, the farm is home to animals large and
small including sheep, pigs, cows, goats, ponies and
rabbits. There’s a focus on education with the opportunity
for children to learn and interact with the animals through
bottle-feeding lambs, grooming ponies, petting rabbits
and more.
www.meadopenfrm.co.uk
Old MacDonalds Farm, Essex
A popular family day out, the farm is alive with animals
bouncing around and colourful adventure areas. During
Easter, there’s usually special events with workshops, shows
and baby animal encounters.
www.omdfarm.co.uk
Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens,
Norfolk
With its 250-year-old landscaped garden and mostly
outdoor attractions, there’s plenty of space to social
distance. Get close to a range of animals throughout the
grounds which is home to snow leopards, tigers, crocodiles,
gibbons and more. The animal feed and talk programme is
an exciting opportunity to learn more.
www.thrigbyhall.com
Paradise Wildlife Park, Hertfordshire
Located in Broxbourne, the wildlife park has an amazing
range of animals including tigers, lions, monkeys, zebras,
camels and wolves. What makes it really special is the
fact that you can get up close and personal, meeting and
feeding many of the animals. There are three themed
adventure playgrounds, children’s rides, indoor soft play
areas and more.
www.pwpark.com
Herrings Green Activity Farm,
Bedfordshire
The birds of prey are the big attraction with over 200 birds
on display. Herrings Green Activity Farm is a family run
business caring for all its birds and animals around the
clock. As well as birds, handlings and displays, there is a
farm with goats and alpacas. A number of experiences are
available throughout the year.
www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk
57

ADVERTORIAL
What are we?
We are an independent museum in Huntingdonshire situated in
open countryside on the edge of a small Fenland town. Housed in
renovated 17th century farm buildings, the museum is full of items
and exhibits kindly donated by local companies and the public.
Ramsey Rural Museum is a charitable trust that is managed and
maintained entirely by volunteers.
What will you find here?
On site there are many areas showing a variety of machinery,
implements and vehicles spanning 200 years of rural life.
Both the Chemist Shop and the Cobblers Shop were donated to
the museum – the former had been owned by the Whitwell family
of Peterborough and the latter from the Paul’s of Chatteris.
A history of the drainage of the Fens can be found in the Pump
Room along with tools used for hedging, ditching and turfing.
lifestyle rooms and various cabinets exhibit numerous artefacts
from years gone by.
The museum also houses extensive archives of local family history
and the range of paperwork, maps and photographs are available
for photocopying. Ramsey and its surrounding villages are also
well documented.
Light refreshments are provided either in our Tea Room or alfresco
in the courtyard. If you prefer, bring a picnic and enjoy the peaceful
setting.
Throughout the year we hold many events details of which appear
on our ‘events page’ of the website.
For information regarding our Opening Times, Entrance Charges,
How to find Us or any other information please visit us at
https://ramseyruralmuseum.co.uk/
What else do we offer?
We have a wonderful second-hand bookshop in the Courtyard
where there is a great selection of good quality books at bargain
prices on a large range of subjects. Come along and browse, if
you are just visiting the Bookshop you don’t need to pay Museum
admission, but while you’re there why not pop into the tea-room
for a cuppa and a slice of cake!
As well as fiction we have books on:
Handicrafts, Sports, Transport, Poetry and classics, WW1 and
WW2, Biographies, Travel, Gardening, Cookery, History. We
welcome donations of clean, good quality books to add to our
stock
The Barn Annexe gives a fascinating insight into the work of
Wheelwrights and Farriers, and amongst the myriad of farming
equipment there are even examples of some 19th century Graffiti!
There is so much to look at in the Trades Room. As the name
suggests there are displays depicting a range of occupations
and memorabilia from local companies. Through the tea room
is Ramsey Stores – an early 20th century shop with well known
brands on view at the counter.
The thatched Well was one of the sources of water for the nearby
Ramsey Abbey. We even have a 2 seater Privy!
The Stable Block is a two storey building packed with nostalgia.
Upstairs is an old schoolroom and displays dedicated to the armed
forces, police and fire services. On the ground floor the three
Opening Times 2021
Please see our website for opening times
Other times by appointment - Phone 01487 815715
Ticket Prices
£4.50 Adults | £4.00 Concessions | £1.00 Children (5 – 16)
Children under 5 FREE
FAMILY TICKET £10.00 (2 Adults & 2 Children)
Facilities
- Tea Room - Gift Shop
- Toilets - Disabled Toilet with Alarm
- Wheelchair Access - Play tent
- Free Parking with Disabled Parking
- Well stocked second hand bookshop
- Baby changing facilities

Happy
Campers
Create lasting memories with a
family-friendly camping holiday
Last year opened up our eyes to travel
on our doorstep. Coastal towns were full
of tourists, country cottages fully booked
and campsites full of laughter and joy.
Campsites have come a long way over
the years. Gone are the days of battling
against the elements while pitching
a canvas tent. Now you’ll find luxury
tipis, beautiful yurts and cosy pods.
Basic toilet blocks have been replaced
with stylish sustainable solutions and
outstanding facilities, think firepits and
outdoor kitchens.
If your eager to create lasting memories,
then book a trip to a campsite with
family and friends. East Anglia is blessed
with some of the best child-friendly
campsites in the country with attractions
and beaches all within easy reach.
For a back to nature experience escape
to Round the Woods. Located in the
peaceful mid-Norfolk countryside,
you’ll find two luxury yurts and a newly
hand-built roundhouse set in a large
wildflower meadow. The ‘Willow
Roundhouse’ sleeps up to seven and
features everything you need for a
lavish camping adventure. After a day
of exploring the 18-acre nature reserve,
get cosy by the woodburner and
snuggle down in the accommodation’s
comfy king-sized beds that have
Hungarian Goose Down bedding and
sumptuous cotton linen.
There’s an emphasis on ‘off grid’ living
and sustainability but comfort isn’t
compromised. Yurts include a luxury
en-suite compost toilet and separate
spacious shower complete with fluffy
towels and robes.
There’s plenty to do during the day
such as woodland walks, den building
and pond dipping, but at night is when
the camping magic comes alive with
BBQs, storytelling around the firepit and
stargazing from the hammock.
60

LITTLE EAST
The riverside campsite
provides the chance to get
back to nature with friends
and family
Owner Kate said: “Our yurts and
Roundhouse are really child friendly
and we’re popular with young families.
We have high chairs, travel cots (we ask
guests to bring bedding for these) and
have plastic plates and cups available.
“The site is great for families, there’s
a huge meadow for exploring and
running free where parents can easily
see them. There’s also a woodland
play area which families love and we’re
currently putting up a tipi shelter which
gives outdoor protection from the
elements including the hot sun
for babies.”
Discover Cambridgeshire’s heritage and
countryside with a break at Waterclose
Meadows campsite near Huntington.
The riverside campsite provides the
chance to get back to nature with
friends and family. Set in the grounds
of the historic Houghton Mill National
Trust watermill, the camp is perfect for
making the most of long summer days
with plenty of local cycling and walking
routes plus water activities such as
canoeing. It’s certainly worth packing
your dinghy! Alternatively keep it
classic and hire a punt or rowboat from
Houghton Boats next to the Mill.
At Secret Meadows in Suffolk, there’s a
choice of glamping accommodation.
Luxury lodge tents, a hobbits box, gypsy
rest and even a two-storey safari tent.
Each accommodation is designed and
decorated to reflect an extravagant
woodland retreat. You can order extra
touches such as breakfast hampers,
private hen coops and a hot tub. This is
the ultimate glamping experience.
With so much beautiful countryside
across East Anglia, there are some
wonderful campsites to be discovered
with a location to suit all styles and
budgets.
61

We’re back... in a BIG way!
RE-OPEN
12 th April *
LS
*subject to government guidelines
CHANNELS
Bar & Brasserie
CHAN
We
LS
LITTLE
CHANNELS
Bar & Bistro
NEW RESTAURANT EXTENDED BAR BIGGER GARDEN & PATIO
LI
CHA
We
E
ELS
We’ve been busy during lockdown, with a major extension & refurbishment.
More details to follow... ready for when we fully re-open and can welcome you inside this summer.
Dine on the finest locally sourced produce crafted into stunning rustic fine dining menus by our
talented Head Chef Dan Pitts. The ultimate destination bar and restaurant in Chelmsford.
Stay up to date with all that’s happening at : www.channelsestate.co.uk
Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East, Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT (Entrance by the Park & Ride)
CHA
E S

FOOD & DRINK
On the Menu
From Field to Front Door
Famed for being the world’s best beef, wagyu has long been a favourite among chefs
and food critics, and thanks to Worstead Estate, you can now have it delivered to your
door. Set in 2,000 acres of working farmland, the estate has been rearing livestock since
the 16th century and is the first in Norfolk to rear and sell premium wagyu beef.
What makes this North Norfolk farm extra special is its commitment to raising the Full
Blood and F1 Wagyu Cross animals as ethically and sustainably as possible. The team
works at the cattle’s pace of life, with regular monitoring, humane handling and a respect
that goes beyond any assurance scheme. The wagyu roam the land freely, and are fed
forage and maltings from the nearby brewery; an essential part of raising premium wagyu.
NELS
ddings
Farm practices are modernised to reduce carbon emissions and the need for chemical
sprays. Delivery packaging is entirely recyclable and compostable. As Wagyu beef is
only around one third of the animal, Worstead Estate ensure no meat goes to waste
by working with charities that supply food and meals to the homeless, elderly and
vulnerable.
There are a number of meat boxes available with a well-rounded selection of cuts,
delivered nationwide. Don’t miss out on the Easter special! Tried and tested by Eastlife, we
can honestly say this will be some of the best meat you will ever eat!
www.worsteadestate.com
Click It Local
Forget fast food, this is speedy shopping! Supporting local business has been made
easier than ever with the help of Click It Local; an online delivery service available in
Cambridge, and since the start of this year, Saffron Walden, Great Dunmow, Bishop’s
Stortford and Huntingdonshire too.
TTLE
NNELS
ddings
Avoid long queues and take the stress out of visiting busy supermarkets with the easyto-use
online service. Click It Local work with multiple stores and restaurants to ensure
all needs are catered. Shop at the likes of Norfolk Street Bakery, Steak & Honour, Joseph
Barnes Wines, Hill St Chocolate and The Cambridge Cheese Co, to name a few. The list
continues to grow by the day. It’s not just food either, you can also order fresh blooms
and gifts from independent retailers.
Simply visit the website and place your order at various stores. Delivery can be arranged
at your convenience, but the swift service means same day delivery is also available.
The recently launched subscription service enables you to sign up for those weekly
essentials or weekend pastries. www.clickitlocal.co.uk
NNELS
TATE
Dishoom Delivery
Cambridge residents can get a fix of Bombay comfort food, tipples and other sundries
direct to their doors. The newly-opened delivery only Dishoom kitchen in Cambridge
will serve a menu of favourite dishes, prepared by chefs using the same recipes and
first-rate produce as the café kitchens. Available via Deliveroo, enjoy culinary comforts
at home from 12pm to 10.30pm daily in many postcodes between Eddington and
Chesterton, Barnwell, Romsey and Newnham, from Trumpington to Cherry Hinton, and
most neighbourhoods in between. To check eligibility for delivery and to place an order
guests can visit www.delivery.dishoom.com
63

eastlife
Summer issue
With restrictions slowly
beginning to ease, make the
most of this summer and let
our readers know you are
OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
Don’t miss out, book your
space NOW!
Email ads@eastlife.co.uk
for more information by
Monday 10th May
Book your Perfect Event
at the
George Hotel
Conference and function facilities available,
for up to 120 people
26 en-suite bedrooms
Wedding Packages starting from £999.00
available fully licenced for wedding ceremony
meaning we can hold your perfect day all
under one roof
Food Served all day in our lounge,
bar & restaurant
Contact us on
01480 432444
events.georgehotel@oldenglishinns.co.uk
www.greenekinginns.co.uk/hotels/george-hotel
64

FOOD & DRINK
The Cambridge Foodie
Cool Beans
The boom of artisan coffee in Cambridge
Written by Gerla de Boer | www.cbtravelguide.co.uk & www.cambridgefoodtour.com
It’s a cold and rainy day in Cambridge, and I spot a long
queue outside one of the small coffee shops. My initial
thought is that they are waiting for a sandwich. How wrong
could I be? One after the other comes out with a steaming
hot cup of coffee. What is the big attraction of clinging onto
an umbrella in the blistering cold just for a cup of coffee? The
answer is the type of coffee. Artisan is much sweeter than
regular coffee, which tastes quite bitter. Most importantly, it’s
roasted with love and care.
A good artisan coffee starts at the source. An artisan coffee
roaster chooses his supplier with care. There are important
considerations such as the type of bean, the conditions it
has been grown in and the harvesting practices. As with
everything artisan, it requires plenty of time, dedication
and practice. You don’t become an artisan coffee roaster
overnight. Unlike the big brands, artisan coffee is roasted in
small batches and not stored for months.
There is more to it though. The place to get the perfect artisan
cup of coffee is a small independent coffee shop. They
prepare it with love and care, and unlike some of the big high
street brands, they make you feel special.
The artisan coffee movement is growing. Many coffee
fanatics are practising their barista skills at home too. One of
the first coffee roasters who spotted a niche in the market was
Nespresso over 30 years ago. They created a coffee machine
building on the earlier work of Luigi Bezzera with the simple
idea to enable anyone to create the perfect cup of espresso
coffee – just like a skilled barista. Being a lover of a fine cup
of coffee, I bought mine in 1992. My flavour palette changed
over the years, and my Nespresso coffee machine made its
way to a barista-style coffee machine, Sage.
Where to find artisan coffee beans in
Cambridge and Ely?
Silver Oak
Available online and at Ely market
Kerb Project
Available online and The OtherSyde, Cambridge
Hot Numbers
Available online, at their two cafes in Cambridge
on Gwydir Street and Trumpington Street, and Hot
Numbers Roastery in Shepreth
XueCam Coffee
Available online, Cambridge Market and at the La
Latina Bustaurante in the Grafton Centre
Coffee Temple
Available online and from their van close to Orchard
Street at Christ’s Pieces, Cambridge
Town and Gown
Available online and at their cafe at Raft Market on
Sidney Street
With so many excellent local artisan coffee roasters around,
it is sometimes difficult to make a choice. It all depends on
your preference as to which coffee bean to choose. I use
Silver Oak coffee beans at the moment, but I have used Hot
Numbers and the Kerb Project too.
65

eastlife
CREATIVE
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Perfect your media strategy with our online courses.
Grow your business and media presence and learn
directly from our team of experts.
Join our masterclasses in PR and social media.
Launching 29 March 2020
Sign up at emma@eastlife.co.uk
Struggle with social media, design, branding
and press coverage? We are here to look after
and support you through it all. Get in touch today
to find out how Eastlife Creative can help your
business stand out from the crowd.
PR | Social Media | Copywriting
Design | Branding | Website Design

FOOD & DRINK
Norwich
Eats:
Inspiration for
your next
restaurant
experience in
Norwich, post
lockdown
Written by Zena | www.lovenorwichfood.co.uk
The lockdown didn’t stop the fine foodies of Norwich, we carried
on eating in the new normal and out of the embers came some
mighty fine places to eat.
Oishi took over the food at Chambers Cocktail bar in the city with
an Asian inspired street food menu. A collaboration between
The Hen House Kitchen and Moco, both street food vans, means
you can choose Hen House’s crispy fried chicken burgers like
the Godzilla with crunchy Katsu chicken, pickled ginger and
Japanese mayo, or opt for Moco inspired rice boxes along with
crispy wings and Korean topped fries. If you love a brownie, tag
on a miso caramel topped gooey chocolate hit delight.
Market News
Norwich market has set up its own delivery service,
visit www.norwichmarket.net. Using Norwich Urban
Collective, a local team of bikers, the market is delivering
locally and charging the customer, not the business.
Keep up-to-date with market news on the new Instagram
account @Norwichmarket_life.
If you haven’t tried market food yet you’re missing out! You’ll
find authentic Empanadas, Thai street food, Malaysian
noodles, Punjabi slow cooked curries and bao buns, not to
mention sweet treats like brownie stuffed cookies and that’s
only a third of it.
Connaught Kitchen has been recently renovated by team Moco
as a local’s café offering breakfast and brunch, plus fine cakes
and bakes. They will also focus on foodie events like tapas
weekends and pop ups with their street food buddies.
A new Middle Eastern shawarma café opened its doors in
lockdown on Unthank Road. 1st Shawarma includes authentic
naans and Turkish bread and proper shawarmas, nothing like a
doner, along with okabasi coal cooked kebabs and Persian sides.
Chick Inn is a rotisserie eat in or takeaway, once Micawbers
Tavern, on the corner of Pottergate. The chicken is slowly cooked
in house for tenderness and served with fries, house slaw,
smashed avocado and lots of sauces. Their sticky BBQ is divine!
Follow Zena at
@love_Norwich_Food
YouTube: Dyslexic Chef
67

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.

FOOD & DRINK
On the Plate
in Bedfordshire
Discover Bedfordshire’s best waterside dining
Whether it’s fine dining by the river, lakeside cocktails or a hearty pub lunch
watching the narrowboats go by, we’ve rounded up some of the county’s
restaurants with the best waterside views.
Corner 5, Box End Park
Box End Park, Box End Road, Bedford, MK43 8RQ
With its lakeside setting, contemporary timber building and panoramic views,
Corner 5 offers a fine dining experience. Menus change with the seasons and
dishes are freshly prepared using the finest ingredients. Part of the Box End Park
complex, a family business offering water sports on two purpose-built lakes,
Corner 5 is a fantastic place to relax and take in the views.
www.boxendpark.com
Riverside Cafe, Jordans Mill
Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Southill Road, Broom, SG18 9JX
Take a guided tour of the Victorian mill, explore the beautiful gardens with crops
growing alongside ornamental plants and enjoy the wildlife and tranquility of the
meadow and woodland. Relax in the Riverside Café where you can enjoy freshly
prepared food and drink overlooking the stunning River Ivel.
www.jordansmill.com
Waterfront Brasserie, Wyboston Lakes
Wyboston Lakes Resort, Great North Road, Wyboston, MK44 3AL
Perfectly situated with views over the lake, the Waterfront Brasserie offers plenty
of choice with traditional British dishes alongside European classics. With a wide
variety of gins and a dedicated Martini menu, a pre or post dinner drink by the
water is a must.
www.wybostonlakes.co.uk
The Grove Lock
The Grove Lock, Grove, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 0QU
Located beside Lock 28 of the Grand Union Canal, the pub serves hearty food,
traditional ales and wonderful views over the water. On the menu you’ll find daily
signatures alongside the classics using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The canal side garden is a beautiful spot to stop and watch the boats go by.
www.grovelock.co.uk
The Wine Glass & Riverside Bar, The Barns Hotel
The Barns Hotel, Cardington Road, Bedford, MK44 3SA
The Wine Glass is a river facing restaurant offering delicious food. In a tranquil
setting, the Riverside Bar is a place to linger for one drink longer or indulge in a
sharing platter. Arrive by river and you can moor alongside the bar; the perfect
place to stop for lunch or sip a few drinks while watching the sun set.
www.barnshotelbedford.co.uk
69

Weddings
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

FOOD & DRINK
In the Kitchen
…with James Rix,
Chef and Owner, at
Fox & Hounds, Hunsdon
James began cooking, aged 15,
in his local village restaurant and
had work experience at Waterside
Inn in Bray and La Tante Claire with
Pierre Koffmann. In 1994, he started
at the Greenhouse with Gary
Rhodes and later moved to one of
the Roux brothers’ consultancies in
upstate New York. After a brief spell
at London’s Oxo Tower, James
started at Alastair Little’s Frith Street
restaurant in Soho, where he worked his way to head chef. In
2000, he moved to Tom Conran’s The Cow, before opening the
Fox & Hounds in Hunsdon, Hertfordshire in 2004.
Nat Aubery
What or who inspired you to become a chef?
I fell into cooking with a Saturday job in a pub in the small
Buckinghamshire village where I grew up. My first job after
college was with the legendary Gary Rhodes and he was a real
inspiration to me.
Do you have any standout moments of your career so far?
I always dreamt of opening my own restaurant so opening the
doors of the Fox & Hounds has to be the standout moment. It’s
been a labour of love from the start! Another highlight was being
awarded our first Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2012, which we’ve
held ever since.
Describe dining at the Fox & Hounds in five words.
Welcoming, convivial, gentle, familiar and friendly.
Tell us about the menu at the Fox & Hounds.
Our simple but sophisticated menu features creative food with
seasonal ingredients. We source the best produce we can and
don’t mess around with it. We use rare-breed meat, local game
and native fish and seafood. Fox & Hounds favourites include
crab taco with mango salsa, handmade spaghetti with clams,
Swaledale lamb rump and Old Spot pork loin. We’re also famous
for our Sunday lunches!
Can you name an ingredient you love to cook with and one
you hate?
Love: game birds…partridge, pheasant. Hate: prunes!
Are there any cooking gadgets that you can’t live without?
We’re pretty gadget free and don’t have any toys – just flames
and knives. My favourite thing in our kitchen is our charcoal
Josper oven that works like an indoor barbecue to give meat a
fantastic flavour while keeping it moist and tender.
When it’s your day off, what do you like to do?
My wife and business partner, Bianca, and I love to go for lunch
in London. Our favourite is Kiln, in Soho because it’s so different
from the kind of food we cook here. Other than that, I like to go
to the gym or for a run over the fields to de-stress. We have two
teenagers, so it’s good to hang out with them too.
What seasonal ingredients should our readers be looking
to buy this spring?
Look for produce from local growers or farmers’ markets – spring
vegetables like peas and spring cabbage or foraged greens like
nettles and wild garlic.
www.foxandhounds-hunsdon.co.uk
71

Are you looking for an alternative to
Residential Care? We have been providing a
successful live-in service for over 40 years
At Able Care we believe that people are happiest
in the familiar surrounds of their own home. We
can support you in maintaining your
independence by providing a valuable alternative
to Residential Care, whilst easing the reliance
upon family, friends and neighbours. Able Care’s
aim is to enable you to remain in your home and
in the community you love. We fully understand
the importance of providing for an individual’s
needs and the benefits of maintaining as much
independence as possible.
Able Care can provide you with:
Carers that have time for you
Carers that can assist with personal care
Carers to help you with your domestic needs
Carers that can provide support from
companionship through to palliative care
Carers that you prefer returning regularly
“Able Care have been amazing under the most
challenging of circumstances and I am so grateful for
your support, kindness and professionalism”
T: 01603 624135
T: 01223 606880
e: enquiries@ablecareagency.co.uk
e: ablecareagency.co.uk
Sackville Place, 44/48 Magdalen Street, Norwich NR3 1JU

HEALTH
A Bright Smile
How to whiten your teeth
The desire for perfect teeth is something that many of us try to
achieve. While professional teeth whitening is usually the most
effective option, it can be costly. However, there are many other
options that can help you broaden your smile.
Professional cleaning should be the first port of call. Karim
Abdel-Khalek, dentist at Bupa Dental Care, said: “For surface
discolouration, sometimes all that is needed if professional
teeth cleaning by a GDC registered dentist or hygienist which
will reinvigorate the teeth and brighten the smile.”
Whitening toothpastes contain abrasives which remove surface
stains; however, Karim advises overuse can lead to thinning
of the enamel which over time can result in making your teeth
more yellow in the long term. Over the counter whitening kits
can also provide a short-term fix, but EU regulations means the
kits contain no more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide, therefore
the results don’t last long.
Home bleaching is a more affective method. Karim explained
that it “involves taking impressions of your teeth for the
fabrication of close-fitting whitening trays that are loaded with a
whitening gel and worn either during the day or overnight. This
usually achieves good results within about 2-4 weeks.”
In-chair bleaching by a professional will achieve instant results
and is the safest option. Karmin continued: “When carried
out by a registered dental professional, this procedure is very
safe and does not result in damage to the teeth. The active
ingredient in professional tooth whitening gel is hydrogen
peroxide delivered in the form of either hydrogen peroxide
or carbamide peroxide. These agents penetrate the tooth
structure to oxidise and break up the stain molecules, thereby
making the teeth appear brighter. It is imperative to have a
check-up with your dentist before teeth whitening, to ensure
that there are no ongoing oral conditions that require treatment/
stabilisation prior to whitening.”
Understandably teeth whitening is not for everyone. If you’d
prefer a more natural solution to reducing teeth stains, Mayur
Pandya, clinical director at Together Dental, advises using
fluoride toothpaste and avoid over consumption of food and
drinks that cause staining, such as red wine, tomato-based
sauces, coffee and curry.
She added: “Maintaining a bright, healthy looking smile is
a great confidence boost as they are often subconsciously
associated with good health and youthfulness. There are a
number of things we can do to help maintain the brightness
of our teeth; brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting the
hygienist regularly. Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco too.”
73

INDEPENDENT DIA B E TES TRUST
DIABETES - HERE TO HELP
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
These booklets provide you with help
and advice about everyday aspects of
living with diabetes
ASK FOR YOUR FREE
COPIES TODAY
Type 1 Diabetes
Know the Facts
A charity supporting and listening to people who live with diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
Diabetes
Everyday Eating
“I want to be told what I can eat – not what I can’t”.
This booklet provides you with help and advice
about everyday eating and a four week menu plan.
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
Email: enquiries@iddtinternational.org
www.iddtinternational.org
martin@iddtinternational.org
Type 2 Diabetes
Management and Medication
Understanding
Your Diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
A charity supporting and listening to people who live with diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
TELEPHONE: 01604 622837 or
EMAIL: martin@iddtinternational.org
InDependent Diabetes Trust
P O Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS.
www.iddtinternational.org
Charity Number: 1058284
Registered Number: 3148360

What's worrying you...?
Anxiety &
Panic
Anger &
Frustration
Depression &
Low Mood
Children's
Mental Health
Relationship &
Couples Issues
Esteem &
Dissatisfaction.
Life Coaching
Ease your emotional concerns
Many of us suffer with emotional problems but you don't have
to accept being anxious, depressed, frustrated or unhappy.
Emotionalskills is here to help you lose your stresses and
tensions, giving you a happier more contented life.
Emotionalskills offers short term counselling or CBT, Life Coaching
or long term life changing psychotherapy with the Emotionalskills
course. Sessions run with qualified therapists in Norwich & via
online services such as WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom or Facetime.
Arrange a free introductory consultation
In total confidence call, text or email us:
07986 488690
contactus@emotionalskills.uk
www.emotionalskills.uk

A Breath of Fresh Air
East Anglia’s best outdoor exercises
Written by Phoebe Taylor | www.phoebegracetaylor.journoportfolio.com
East Anglia is packed with exciting activities to do year-round! From UFO trails and gentle
rambles to adrenaline-pumping kitesurfing and competitive rowing, here’s your guide to the
region’s best outdoor exercises.
Bedfordshire
Canoe along the Great Ouse
During summer, there are several
options to rent a canoe or kayak in
Bedford city centre. While these tend
to close for the winter season, paddling
through this historic market town into
woodland and countryside is just as
charming in cooler months too. If you
have a vessel of your own, it’s worth
making the trip.
If you don’t have your own boat, you
can still get on the water. Head to Priory
Sailing Club, a calm lake where you can
hire gear and take lessons.
Norfolk
Embrace pedal power
Norfolk is threaded with breezy bike
rides. If you’re looking for adventure,
head to Thetford Forest (mountain bike
recommended) to explore trails through
sprawling pine forest and heathland.
Bonus: you’ll often see more wildlife on
a bike than on foot, such as the forest’s
shaggy wild ponies.
Blow any cobwebs away by taking a
ride along the Norfolk Coast Cycleway.
Break up your journey with a boat ride
to see seal pups at Blakeney Point, and
(when COVID allows) a pub stop along
the route for a steaming hot bowl of
fresh local mussels.
Cambridgeshire
Row your boat
Rowing isn’t just for Cambridge Blues;
oar-mad Cambridge city is one of the
best places to try this exhilarating sport.
Clubs along the River Cam cater to
all abilities, from semi-pro scullers to
complete beginners.
If rowing in a team isn’t your cup of tea,
the Cam offers plenty of opportunity
for solo recreation. Punt through town,
a surprisingly effective arm workout,
or kayak along the much quieter
Grantchester Meadows stretch, where
you can even take a dip if you’re feeling
brave.
76

Essex
Try stand up paddleboarding
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP)
is a whole-body workout that’s
becoming increasingly popular in
the East of England. Learn the basics
or rent equipment at Mersea Island
Watersports. Once you’ve built up your
confidence (and balance), Essex has a
surprising number of pretty waterways
to explore.
The channels and creeks around
Mersea Island are an obvious first
choice, but after that you could glide
down the River Stour to Flatford Mill, or
paddle past bird- and wildlife-filled Two
Tree Island. You could even challenge
yourself with SUP yoga classes at
WetnDry Boardsports, Rayleigh.
Hit the beaches
With more than 350 miles of shoreline
on offer, it’s no surprise that Essex is
home to some excellent beaches, and
they’re not just good for long walks.
Switch up your exercise routine with
a run along the waterline. Running on
sand decreases the impact on your
joints, which is always a bonus. You
could explore places like Walton-onthe-Naze,
where WWII remnants dot
the shore. Pop into the art gallery on
Martello Beach. Try jogging past the
candy-coloured bathing huts on West
Mersea Beach too.
Suffolk
Follow the UFO trail
Do you believe in aliens? Get out and
about by following this trail through
Rendlesham Forest to learn more about
the alleged sightings which took place
here in 1980. Little ones (and not-quiteso-little
ones) will also love the forest’s
giant play area, kitted out with gear
including an obstacle course, zip line
and tube slide.
Go kitesurfing
If the thought of plunging into icy ocean
fills you with excitement rather than
dread, head to the Suffolk coast’s prime
surfing locations to catch a wave or two.
You’ll soon warm up wearing a wetsuit!
Lowestoft has plenty of gear rental
shops where you can kit yourself out,
plus a smooth sandy beach in case of
any mishaps like crashing into the shore.
Stay the night to catch a glimpse of the
UK’s earliest sunrise.
Hertfordshire
Get sweaty in an outdoor gym
Are you missing gym workouts? You
could find a replacement in your
local park. In Hertfordshire, you’ll spot
outdoor gym equipment in Abbots
Langley, Borehamwood, Elstree,
Harpenden, Hitchin, Potters Bar, St
Albans, Stevenage and Watford.
While this doesn’t necessarily cover
everything (weightlifters are likely to
be disappointed), it can add a touch of
variety to your workout routine. It comes
with the bonus of fresh air and vitamin D.
Explore on foot
Hertfordshire is home to several scenic
running trails, like the Grand Union
Canal’s serene towpath. Take a look at
a map and try to spot likely contenders
– you might find a new favourite route
right on your doorstep.
If running isn’t quite your style, go
rambling through the county’s
numerous heritage trails. You could
take in Roman walls and an impressive
cathedral in St Albans, stroll past listed
buildings in pretty Wheathampstead, or
take in scenic views from the Chiltern
Hills.
77

Fournel Jewellers At The Amber Shop
SOUTHWOLD
For you very special day come and be inspired
by our specialist range of gem, diamond and
engagement jewellery.
15, Market Place, Southwold, IP18 6EA | 01502 723394 | www.ambershop.co.uk
78

Written by Ruth Essex | ruthessex.com
Hands up if you bought your new spring
handbag way before Christmas? I did. I often
shop for seasonal items, many months in
advance. You see, I get excited for change.
I love the new season coming in with fresh
and inspiring items. It makes me feel joyful,
especially after a winter of hibernation.
As a stylist I need to keep abreast of trends.
I have some clients who, like me, prefer to
shop well in advance. And, if you love buying
second-hand items, or rush to be the first
one in store, when new season stock arrives,
knowing the trends in advance can help. It
guides you to the best picks; what to try and
what to pass by.
For a long-term curated wardrobe, my
top tip for any spring season is to look for
lighter backgrounds for any prints you are
considering. They appear fresher and more
uplifting, than the deeper backgrounds we see
througout the winter.
Shades
of Spring
Also, search for items in tulip shades. These
colours return every year without fail. Review
the Pantone predictions too. Designers and
manufactuerers use these to select their
colour palettes, so it is what you will find in the
shops. You can sign up for my free newsletter
at ruthessex.com if you enjoy seeing the
Pantones for each season.
In 2021, the spring colours will be shades of
lilac, mint, light and dark orange, and a midpink
too. Even a bright turquise. Most of us
have some clothes in a few of these colours
already.
But this season, why not consider a new
handbag instead of more clothes? Perhaps a
floral one instead of a neutral? It adds interest
to a plain outfit with no effort. If you don’t fancy
a pattern, try a bright colour. Pink for cool tones
and an orange or green for warm tones – you
won’t go far wrong. An instant update you can
bring out again next year and already works
with your existing wardobe. What is not to
love?
Ruth Essex is a stylist, writer and
teacher of style. Get in touch at
style@ruthessex.com
79

PETER’S BRIDAL WAREHOUSE
Peter Bullman
WEDDING DRESS FACTORY OUTLET
Stunning Dresses,
Size 8 to 36 in stock
or you to try on today
Priced from
£299 to £999
Unit 21 Northfield Business Park, Soham, CB7 5UE
Just off A142 Soham By Pass, (Behind Scampers Pet Store)
Call: 07917757862
www.petersbridalwarehouse.com
Peter Bridal Warehouse

Weddings
Your wedding photos will stay with you for the rest of your
lives together and, in many cases, the images will be the
only tangible reminder you’ll have of your big day when
it’s all over. To make sure that your photos tell the whole
story of your day, here’s what you need to think about:
Your Bridal Preparations
Capturing this part of the day, especially the last couple
of hours, is important. Think about the backdrop for these
photos – lots of natural light and tidiness give the best
results. Some of the essential shots for your photographer
to capture include: the details (the ring + ring box, veil,
dress, accessories, bridal bouquet, buttonholes and
stationery suite – this is especially important if you want to
get your wedding featured in print or online afterwards),
bride with bridesmaids, bride putting on her dress,
bridesmaids/parents of the bride seeing the bride for the
first time and moments during hair and makeup.
Your Ceremony
More and more couples are now asking for ‘unplugged’
ceremonies. This is a great idea as asking your guests to
put away their phones and cameras means that they are
fully present for your ceremony. It also means that your
photographer can capture absolutely everything without
anyone or anything getting in the way.
Your Family Photos
Family photos are now much more creative and
interesting than the staid line-ups of years gone by and if
there’s a particular shot that you want, make sure that you
ask for it. Speak to your photographer for advice and as a
rule of thumb limit your number of family/group photos to
no more than 10.
Your Couple’s Portraits
Say cheese
These shots will quite likely become the images that you
share the most on social media and display in your home
after your wedding. If you’d like photos that have that
gorgeous, soft light that you often see in magazines and
online, talk to your photographer about the most suitable
times during the day for couple photos and factor this into
your schedule. This may mean that you have leave your
wedding breakfast or evening reception for a while but
trust me, it’s worth it.
Your Reception
Make sure every moment of your
wedding is captured with our wedding
photography checklist
Written by Katrina Otter
www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk
The speeches, the cutting of the cake, the first dance and
guests having fun all need to be photographed. If there
are any elements of your décor and details that you really
want your photographer to capture, then give them a list.
Trust your photographer
You’ve chosen them because you love their work and
adore their style so on the day, don’t be afraid to go with
their suggestions. You might well be pleasantly surprised
with the results and these unplanned images could well
become your favourites!
81

Helping
You
Unlock
Your
Potential
Have you been
furloughed?
Are you facing
redundancy?
Are you
unemployed?
Are you
unemployed?
Are you working from home &
concerned about the future?
eVolve your future can help by offering
FREE remote, confidential & completely
impartial one to one support with our
experienced Careers Advisers through
either phone or social media
platforms of your choice.
evolveyourfuture.co.uk
01933 358250
We would
love to hear
from you!

Motoring
DS7 Crossback
E-Tense
Written by Sue Cooke | Twitter @cookecars
Spring for me is new beginnings, new changes and new innovations. DS
Automobiles, which is the luxury arm of Citroen has some wonderful new
technology which I spent a glorious week exploring during my recent road test of
the DS7 Crossback E-Tense.
I have never seen headlights on an SUV that are so fascinating but then I wasn’t
around to buy cars in 1955. That was the year of the original DS which inspired
the headlights. With some added technology, the new headlights have a main
projector headlamp and a cluster of three LEDs that rotate 180° and sparkle. My son
videoed them and my daughter wanted to show them off to her boyfriend. These
headlights are not just for show though, they help the driver by focusing the light on
the road. The beam adapts in width and range to the road conditions and vehicle
speed and they do not dazzle oncoming drivers. Six lighting modes are available
and are selected automatically by the system; Parking, Town Beam, Country Beam,
Motorway Beam, Adverse Beam and High Beam. Isn’t new technology wonderful.
The DS7 Crossback has plenty of other innovative features which kept me
entertained all week. As I rounded a corner a stick figure and two stick animals
appeared in a red warning light on the dash. Outside the car, a man was walking
two dogs, balancing on the narrow edge of the B road. An infrared camera
positioned in the grille picks up the behaviour of pedestrians or livestock up to 100
metres away and artificial intelligence analyses the camera footage and represents
the picture in front of the driver, using thermal imagery.
On the motorway, I appreciated the warning sign, ‘Be Vigilant’, which flashed on the
screen when I became hemmed in by several large trucks. A windscreen-mounted
camera scans the road surface up to 20 metres ahead and warns the driver. Only a
handful of high-end limousines currently boast this advanced technology.
Facts at a Glance:
Model: DS7 Crossback Ultra Prestige
E-Tense
Price: £56,075 otr without options
Engine: Turbocharged petrol engine and
two electric motors combined to produce
300hp
Performance: 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds
and on to a top speed of 149mph
CO2 emissions: 33-37g/km (WLTP)
Combined fuel consumption: 166.2-
235.4mpg (WLTP)
Electric range combined: 34-40 miles
(WLTP)
New research by DS Automobiles has revealed that almost a quarter of the UK
public are likely to make a premium purchase over the next 12 months. Nearly half
of those surveyed stated high levels of interior technology and features as the main
qualities they look for.
This is what you will find in the spacious interior of this Crossback offering the very
best of French style, with ‘ooh la la’ attention to detail. I like the chrome scrolling
cylinders which are used to increase the audio volume or change the view of the
large digital instrument display. From the nappa leather to silver chrome highlights
everything is quality.
The E-Tense plug-in hybrid is powered by a turbocharged petrol engine and
two electric motors that combine to produce 300hp. Up to 30mph the cabin is
exceptionally quiet and even when the engine ignites, silence remains paramount.
CO2 emissions are 33g/km, so new DS owners will find huge tax savings.
My road test review of the DS7 Crossback E-Tense can only be described as a super
smooth spring into a super quiet and stately environment. Yes, you will pay for this
premium purchase and its great technology, but it’s a welcome change for 2021.
83

ROYTHORNE & SON LTD
Quality Service For A Sensible Price
Roythorne and Son is a friendly, family run
garage situated in the village of North
Wootton, 10 minutes from King's Lynn
town centre.
Our aim is to always look after you as well
as your car, in the most courteous and efficient
way, with all your motoring requirements.
Our workshop is well equipped to deal with
your vehicle repairs and servicing, we are also
BMW specialists.
We have a variety of used cars on display for
you to view and test drive.
Forecourt petrol and diesel sales –
where we still serve you.
TEL:01553 673000
Nursery Lane, North Wootton, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 3QB
EMAIL: sales@roythorneandson.co.uk • WEB: www.roythorneandson.co.uk
STUNNING NEW HOMES
IN CAMBRIDGESHIRE, ESSEX, BEDFORDSHIRE & HERTFORDSHIRE
Croft End, Orwell, Cambridgeshire
The Oaklands, Langford, Bedfordshire
Visit our website or call us to find out more
01883 346464
www.croudacehomes.co.uk
84

Clear View Ahead
Top dash cams for 2021
Dash cams are rising in popularity among drivers as a way to lower insurance costs and,
should an incident occur, protect against liability. We look at the top products on the
market to help establish which model is best for you.
Local Dash Cam Stockists:
Autotronix – stores in Bedford and Luton
Peter Doige – Great Yarmouth
Pulse Car Audio – Hadleigh, Benfleet
Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam
The Nextbase 622GW has all the high-tech features: 4k image quality, night vision,
Bluetooth, Alexa compatibility, adjustable capture rate, slow-mo playback and digital
image stabilisation for clearer details (even in fog or poor weather conditions). The real
selling point of this model is the use of what3words: a feature which has the ability to
share your location within three-metres, so that you can be located if an emergency
occurs. The 622GW is currently the only dash cam on the market with this potentially
life-saving extra.
GREAT IF:
You enjoy hi-tech gadgets with flashy extras and tightened safety
measures.
Approximate retail price: £249
Garmin Dash Cam Mini, 1080p
Compact, discrete (comparable to car keys in size) and does what it says on the tin.
Its 1080P HD lens does the job, offering quality whilst keeping its retail price low. This
dashcam doesn’t have a display, making it incredibly low maintenance, and will begin
recording automatically when plugged in. All footage is viewable on the Garmin Drive
app, which has a good reputation for being easy to use.
GREAT IF:
You are looking for efficiency at a low price.
Approximate retail price: £89
Garmin Dash Cam 66W
The Garmin Dash Cam records in 1440p with an extra wide lens; for its mid-range
price, this is good quality. This dashcam is low maintenance with its automatic incident
detection, lane departure/collision warnings, voice control and a handy ‘Travelapse’
mode which condenses your journey into highlights. Footage can be saved to an inserted
micro-SD card or viewed on the Garmin Drive app.
GREAT IF:
You want a little extra security with the hard work done for you.
Approximate retail price: £159
Kenwood DRV-A501W Wide Quad HD Dash Cam
The winner of the EISA Best In-Car Dash Cam category for 2020-21, the DRV-A501W box
includes a polarised filter, to reduce weather glare and keep footage sharp, and a 16GB
SD-Card. These inclusive accessories justify the price as there’s no need to outsource
extras, while all the expected features of a dashcam in this price range are provided too:
1440p recording, colour display, audio playback, GPS, the option of desktop software and
easy position adjustability with its magnetic quick release.
GREAT IF:
You’re after easy installation and an adaptable device for a range
of journeys.
Approximate retail price: £179.95
85

Business Accountants for
Business People
● Accounting and Bookkeeping
● Tax and Tax Planning
● Regulation and Compliance
● Advice and Support
● Fixed Fees
● Straight and Direct Communication
● Local Presence and National Strength
● We Do Not Charge By The Hour
Good Accounting is
Good Business
MIKE BARNES ACA
T: 01 485 521 756
M: 07969 163021
E: mike.barnes@aims.co.uk
www.aims.co.uk
Do you want free advice
to help you have more impact
with your customers?
Tune in to
Communication Strategy 'That Works'
A free weekly bite-sized podcast on how to
promote, protect and grow your biz brand!
short episodes every week
with Emma Drake Chart.PR
founder of Henbe
Download, subscribe
listen and learn at:
www.henbe.co.uk/podcast
Find me on Facebook
@CommsThatWorks
LinkedIn & Twitter @Emma Drake
86

CONSUMER
Martin
Lewis
Cut
Your
Council
Tax
Hidden ways to cut
£100s or £1,000s off
your council tax bill
Martin Lewis is
the Founder of
MoneySavingExpert.com.
To join the 13 million
people who get his free
Money Tips weekly
email, go to
www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip
Over half of all councils are expected to
increase council tax by the maximum 5%
this April. Councils have always offered
crucial public services, but during the
pandemic, they’ve been a lifeline to many.
Yet council tax bills – especially if they
increase – are a stretch for many, and
while it’s important that people pay
their dues, it’s equally worth checking
you’re not missing out on legitimate
discounts and reductions. So, let me
take you through my key council tax
need-to-knows…
1. Up to 400,000 homes in England
and Scotland are in the wrong band.
Council tax was first introduced in Great
Britain in 1993 (Northern Ireland has a
different system). It’s a payment based
on the value of your home – homes are
banded from band A the least expensive,
to band H, most expensive (Band I in
Wales).
Before the tax came in, a stop-gap ‘2ndgear’
valuation of all homes was done.
Literally people in cars with a clipboard
assessing a band. Yet in England and
Scotland that stop-gap has never been
updated and is still what dictates most
homes bands – meaning there’s been
estimated to be up to 400,000 homes in
the wrong band (Wales has more recently
been re-assessed). Some will be paying
too little, some too much, all the way back
to 1993, and could be backdated.
You can’t ask for your band to be lowered,
only evaluated, and to stop yours, or
worse your neighbour’s band increasing,
there are two checks you should make.
• The Neighbours check: Are you in a
higher band than neighbours in similar
or better identical homes (see your
and their bands at www.voa.gov.uk
in England and www.saa.gov.uk in
Scotland).
• The valuation check: Effectively back
calculating what your house was worth
in 1991 when bands were set. Don’t
worry to make this easy I’ve a free tool
to help at www.mse.me/counciltax
(which also includes far more help on
how to do this, and FAQs if you run into
problems).
Only if BOTH of these stack up then it’s
worth asking for them to check if you’re
in the right band (for how to do this see
the link above).
2. Live alone, with under-18s or fulltime
students? There’s a single-person
reduction of 25%. Those under aged 18
and full-time students are disregarded for
council tax purposes, so a single parent
would be entitled to this. All student
households pay nothing. Live-in carers in
some circumstances are exempt too.
3. Do you live with someone with a
‘severe mental impairment’? You
could be missing discount worth
£1,000s. If someone has a diagnosed
severe mental impairment, which includes
someone with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s,
strokes and more, and are eligible (not
necessarily claiming) for some benefits,
e.g disablement allowance or incapacity
benefit – they may be disregarded for
council tax purposes. Meaning they don’t
have to pay council tax if they live alone
and get 25% off if they live with one other
adult. Plus, some councils backdate it,
leading to £1,000s back.
This is wildly underpublicised, but I’ve
been trying to raise awareness, and
have had many successes. This can be
complicated so do read the full details at
www.mse.me/SMI.
4. Had your home adapted for a
disabled resident. Rather than a
discount you may be able to get your
council tax band lowered, speak to the
council.
5. On universal credit/benefits you
could get up to 100% off. Council tax
reductions are long standing discounts
of up to 100%, which you apply for
directly with your local council (details of
your council is at www.gov.uk/applycouncil-tax-reduction).
87

Feeling overwhelmed by
business admin and to-do lists?
A virtual PA can help
relieve the pressure.
Whether you’re running a business or
managing a hectic family home,
delegating to an experienced and
organised virtual PA will give you
some valuable time back.
Get in touch for a no obligation
chat and see how I can help.
07834 628 460
hello@lauraharrispa.com
www.lauraharrispa.com

Business101
Reasons to Hire a
Business Coach
Lockdown has changed the way we
work. From online meetings to working
from home, many businesses have
had to learn how to adapt. If you’re
feeling stuck in your business, new or
established, a business coach could be
the answer.
A business coach will only be beneficial
if you’re willing to grow and take advice.
The more you invest in yourself, the
more likely you’re to succeed. With this
in mind, we’ve pulled together reasons
to hire a business coach.
1
Accomplish your goals
A business coach offers so much more
than just advice. Support is available
in all areas of running a business
varying from planning, structure, risk
assessment, improving sales and profit,
design, feedback and action. Initially a
good business coach will help you set
your goals then help you take consistent
actions to reach them.
3
Profit
Making money might be an obvious
choice for starting a business but it’s
easy to lose money without realising. A
coach can help you manage finances,
create a strategy and help increase
profits.
2
Priorities
Finding a work life balance can be
tough, especially when you’re a
business owner. A coach will help
you structure your priorities and find
a balance which works for you. Once
you’ve created a method, it will give
you more time to focus on the task
at hand without juggling multiple
jobs at once, ultimately leading to
increased productivity. A virtual PA is
also an effective option for managing
admin. There are a number of services
available. For example, virtual PA
Laura Harris based in Essex, offers
both executive and lifestyle support
taking on administration, planning and
management.
4
Decisions
A business coach is there to offer
support and guidance. Sharing your
ideas with someone who understands
your goals will help you make the right
choices. A coach will be able to provide
constructive views and feedback.
89

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The best gadgets for working from home
It’s been a year since many of us started working from home due to the
pandemic. It’s not yet known whether the vaccine will mean staff will return
to the office or continue to do so, but if you haven’t yet updated your working
space it’s about time you do. Make life a little easier with our pick of office
gadgets to help with productivity and comfort.
STM ChargeTree
With the whole family at home and devices
working over-time, the house can become a wire
maze. However, there’s no more squabbling over
plug space and chargers with ChargeTree from
STM Goods. Charge three devices at once
whilst taking up minimal space on your desk.
The STM ChargeTree takes things vertical –
charging a phone, Apple Watch and AirPods at
the same time.
Priced: £69.95.
Available from iStore Ipswich and Colchester,
and Amazon.co.uk
Twelve South Curve SE
The perfect stand to pair with a new MacBook.
Not only does it perfectly match clean modern
office spaces and the aesthetics of many Apple
accessories, it also has an improved ergonomic
design. Users no longer have to hunch over and
tilt their head downwards towards a screen, they
can easily elevate their MacBook to a healthier,
more comfortable height.
Priced: £49.99
Available from Currys.co.uk
Sony WH-1000XM4
headphones
Take your concentration and Zoom meetings to
the next level with Sony’s latest noise cancelling
headphones. Tune out household noise with
its adaptive sound control and speak to chat
function.
Priced: £350
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Office Chair Gym
With gyms closed and sports classes off limits, this
handy portable office gym equipment is a great
way to get moving. Work your upper body while
you work!
Price: £79
Available at www.menkind.co.uk/office-gym
Home Comforts
91

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94

INTERIORS
Flawless
Floors
As spring cleaning time rolls around again, we share
our top tips for maintaining your flooring to keep
the surfaces spotless
Vinyl Floor
Top tip: Wash with soapy water, less is more.
Ideally you want to keep your vinyl floor well-polished without damaging the glossy
appearance. After hoovering the vinyl or dusting it with a dry cloth, clean with a solution
of apple cider vinegar and warm water. Make sure you wring out your cloth properly, so
that it is slightly damp to avoid smearing.
Hard Wood Floor
Top tip: Steer clear of abrasives, hard brushes with bristles and heavy alkaline
substances.
Begin with a sweep or hoover with a softer nozzle/brush end to avoid scratches, so
that any debris is collected. When mopping, warm water with half a cup of white wine
vinegar added can get rid of tougher grease and oil marks. You can always build up the
vinegar quantity as you go; too much may damage the wood’s finish.
Carpets
Top tip: Avoid rubbing and scouring, particularly with newer marks.
The first rule with any new carpet mark is do not scrub! Instead use a cloth or towel to
absorb excess liquid. Follow this with either a low alkaline bleach product or sprinkle
stains with baking soda, before rinsing with hot water. For a general carpet clean, steam
cleaning has risen in popularity, keeping carpets looking fluffy and new. Private cleaning
companies offer this service. However, there are many steam cleaners available on the
market if you’re comfortable making a small investment.
Laminate Floor
Top tip: Use a damp cloth and avoid any strong substances.
Laminate flooring has a reputation for being easy to clean – weekly hoovering and
using a microfibre mop head monthly will keep the surface in good condition for longer.
Polishing isn’t necessary and can do long term damage – simplicity is key!
95

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98

INTERIORS
Take it
Outside
The latest home trend; the outdoor office
The pandemic opened our eyes to a
new way of working. Many of us, for the
first time, embraced the working from
home lifestyle. While it may have bought
stresses with poor Wi-Fi mid Zoom call, a
kitchen table of paperwork and children
interrupting, it also gave us flexibility and
we clawed back time that would’ve been
wasted commuting.
This new reality has sparked a boom
in outdoor, custom built offices.
From wooden hideouts resembling
Scandinavian cabins to chic glass
fronted summer houses, there’s a host
of options to suit all budgets. Forget wall
panelling and crittall doors, the garden
office is the must-have home addition
of 2021.
Gone are the days where a decorated
shed was considered somewhat a man
cave or ‘she shed’. These style of huts or
cabins are built to last. The outdoor office
can be customised to reflect personal
style or be an extension of your home
interiors.
A wooden outbuilding can be a costeffective
alternative to an extension.
Anglia Log Cabins have been crafting
timber builds for over 30 years. The
company states that “the log home is a
comparable to the cost of a traditional
brick building.” Using natural materials
and with much lower CO2 emissions
during construction and future running,
the savings can add up...up to 25 per
cent off energy bills in fact.
Not only does an outdoor office save
space in the home, it’s also beneficial to
If self-care is top priority,
an outdoor space can also
be used as a gym, yoga or
meditation studio.
mental health. It can be difficult to switch
off from work when the laptop is in sight.
Having a dedicated working space
can help you achieve a better work life
balance.
If self-care is top priority, an outdoor
space can also be used as a gym, yoga
or meditation studio. There’s a reason
many Pilate and yoga instructors work
from such a space. You can create your
own peaceful haven.
For the ultimate indulgence why not add
an outdoor bath to your garden? Yes,
really. What could be dreamier than a
G&T under the stars? The Outdoor Bath
Co in Cambridgeshire have designed
stylish baths created with no damaging
chemicals. Using well-seasoned
wood, the baths reach optimal bathing
temperature within 30 minutes.
A cabin or hut is a great way of creating
extra space to your home. Research
and getting multiple quotes are key for
finding the right option for your needs.
While the future may be uncertain for
some time, an additional room can be a
welcomed escape.
99

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100

INTERIORS
How Being
Green Can
Save You
Money
Written by Eilidh Gallagher | www.justeilidh.com
If you want to become more eco conscious but feel you can’t afford it, you might
be surprised to find out that you can actually SAVE money by being green! Here
are some easy ways:
Try buying no new clothes for a month, then see if you can stretch it longer.
Instead, experiment with the wardrobe you already have or look into buying
pre-loved. You won’t be spending money on any new clothes or adding to
landfill.
Meal plan and use up any leftovers. It’s good for your wallet and the environment
by creating less food waste.
Swap to a bar of soap; simple and effective.
See if switching energy providers to a green provider will save you money on
your tariff.
Take your lunch and water bottle with you. It will save you hundreds of pounds
over the year and stop you from having to buy disposables.
Consider eating less meat, your shopping bill will be cheaper, and you will
be having less of an impact. You could even have a go at growing your own
vegetables.
Learn how to mend clothes. It will save you having to buy new and make the
clothes you have last longer.
Make your own natural cleaning products with a few cheap and simple
ingredients, and without the chemicals and endless plastic bottles.
Turn electrical items off rather than leaving them on standby. If you do this
consistently it will save you money and be good for the planet too.
Walk or cycle when you can rather than driving. You’ll save on petrol as well as
reducing your carbon footprint.
Bring your own shopping bags so you don’t need to get and pay for a plastic
one.
Don’t keep the tap running whilst shaving or brushing your teeth. It will save you
money on your water bill and stop water waste.
Look into getting a water butt to collect rainwater to water your plants and
garden rather than water from the tap.
Eilidh is a blogger and
freelance writer who is
happiest outdoors. A mum of
three, she now writes about
their journey as a family to
a simpler more eco-friendly
way of living.
www.justeilidh.com
101

Gardens with Ade
With clocks going forward on 28 March,
we can finally say goodbye to winter and
hello to spring. Fresh buds on roses, and
vibrant trumpets of cheery daffodils hailing
the new season in. It’s time to put those
plans, we drew up over the winter months,
into action. However, keep horticultural
fleece and cloches close at hand, as
winter still has a sting in its tail.
After a hard season, flower borders
aren’t looking at their best. Get them
spring-ready by removing all fallen debris
and weeds, and cutdown last season’s
perennial foliage to a few cms above the
ground. You can also increase your stock
by dividing and replanting these plants.
Finally, give the area a heavy mulch,
ensuring you don’t cover over plants or
shrubs, as this will prevent sunlight and
warmth reaching them and can cause
them to rot.
Before you sow your first seed, take
them time to clear up and clean your
greenhouse, cold frames and sheds,
including pots, trays and tools. Not only
will this get you into the right headset for
gardening, but it will get rid of unwanted
pests and potential diseases that could
harm young plants. Also, wash away the
grim on your greenhouse glass with warm
soapy water, as new shoots will need all
the light and warmth they can get.
If you’re looking for blooms this season, try
sowing French marigolds, cornflower or
cosmos. Sweet pea can also be sown, but
can be tricky to germinate. Try leaving the
seeds overnight in a bowl of water, or give
the seed a shallow nick before planting.
Fill a small pot or tray with either seed or
multi-purpose compost. Tap the container
gently, and brush the excess soil from
the rim. Sow your seeds thinly and then
cover over with a thin layer of compost,
or vermiculite. Once labelled, place your
container in a couple of inches of water.
The pot will draw the water from the
bottom, leaving the seeds undisturbed.
Finally, place in a bright and warm spot.
If homegrown veg is your thing, then early
varieties of peas can be sown indoors. As
legumes have a deep root system, ideally
you want to sow them in root trainers
as they don’t like their roots disturbed.
Not only are you providing the best
opportunity to grow strong plants, but
when you plant out, the roots won’t suffer
from stress.
There’s nothing more satisfying than lifting
and eating your very own homegrown
potatoes. So, if you haven’t started chitting
your tubers yet there’s still time. Chitting is
simply a process in giving your potatoes
a head start. Newly bought tubers should
be placed in a warm, dry area with plenty
of sunshine. Stand them upright, egg
boxes make a great holder, with their eyes
facing upwards. After several weeks they
should have healthy shoots. Try to keep
these sprouts down to the strongest three
or four. If you don’t have an allotment or
raised beds, consider growing them in
sacks or growbags.
Early varieties of forced rhubarb, such
as Timperley Early, will now have strong
growing stems. These could be ready
for harvesting by the end of the month.
Once picked, refrain from forcing further
as you’ll weaken the crown. Instead,
leave the crown to rest for a year.
Spring is a time of hope, optimism and
the temptation of a sunny day or two.
Whatever you get up to this spring, take
the time to enjoy the season and get
outside.
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.
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
103

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104

INTERIORS
Stage the Scene
Let your home tell a story
BEFORE
AFTER
Staging for residential sales is big business in the US, but
somewhat overlooked in the UK. With stamp duty suspended
until 31 March, the property market is currently booming. If you’re
looking to make a quick sale, home staging could make all the
difference.
The concept of staging means getting your home ready for a
potential buyer. A few simple changes can help speed up the
sale of your home and even add value.
Staging is important for both estate agency photography
and home showings. Don’t wait for a prospective buyer to
step through your door, start staging your home for online
photographs. Rightmove and Zoopla are an online platform to
showcase your home. In a competitive market, if you provide
beautiful alluring imagery, you’ll see an increase in viewings,
which could lead to a quicker sale. When a potential buyer arrives
to view the home, ensure they see the scene they saw online.
Continue to sell them a well-put together home they could
imagine living in.
Not sure where to start? Home Style Stories, a home staging
company for both residential properties and holiday homes,
offers multiple services to help you sell your home (or increase
booking revenue). Online consultations, styling advice, redesigns,
organisation and more, the small team understand what it takes
to sell a home. With over 30 years’ experience in interiors and
marketing, they work closely with every homeowner to ensure a
successful sale.
Lucy Eastwood, stylist and owner at Home Style Stories, said:
“The market is saturated. To sell quickly you must stand out from
the crowd, find your USP and showcase it to the world. At Home
Style Stories we weave styling and marketing together to create
visual storytelling. We help clients sell the dream.”
A prospective buyer will make a judgement in seconds, what do
you want them to see?
For a consultation with Home Style Stories visit
www.homestylestories.com or DM on Instagram
@homestylestories
105

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BUILT ON INTEGRITY AND TRUST

The Arts Column
Written by Collette Hoefkens
Proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and artist
www.nortonwaygallery.com
Beech-Mist – Gary Cook
Day-in-the-Sun – David Parfitt
The days are growing longer and so too, hope starts to blossom
in our hearts. Nurture this feeling with an indulgent and
necessary feast upon the arts. The doors may be closed but the
websites are very much open, bringing our wonderful regional
galleries, directly into our homes. With a vast number to choose
from, here are two recommendations, just for starters.
The superb Rye Art Gallery, East Sussex, is scheduling two
exhibitions to run side by side from March to May. The Rye
Society of Artists (RSA), ‘There will be Growth in Spring’ and
Nick Archer, ‘Somewhere the Grass is Greener’. Both promise to
be uplifting and exciting new collections.
The RSA are a society of around 50 members, all of whom are
professional artists, living and working in the Rye area. The
collective work will include a wide breadth of media, with the
focus on that most hopeful of all seasons, spring. Look out for
works by the renowned Fred Cuming RA and Robert Greenhalf.
Nick Archer, also an RSA member, accompanies this group with
a solo showing of his own work. He is a prestigious awardwinning
artist who trained at the Royal Academy Schools in
London. His strangely familiar works are both compelling and
haunting. Exploring the relationship between the natural world
and its place in our imagination, he uses many visual layers of
film, art and folklore references within his vibrant, mysterious
and most thought provoking, oil paintings.
Further north, you will find the wonderful Sea Pictures Gallery
in Suffolk. Nestled in the heart of its smallest town Clare, this
beautiful gallery is a treasure trove of original art and is fully
operational online. Amongst an excellent collection of original,
coastal and maritime related works, I draw your attention to
painters Gary Cook and David Parfitt.
Both Gary and David, manage to capture and convey an
essence of the somewhat darker side of the natural landscape.
Dense thicket, trunk and furrow darkly beckon the viewer to
peer inside their beautiful and serious vistas.
David’s traditionally fluid use of watercolour creates romantic
and quietly dramatic, contemporary landscapes. Gary’s mixed
media pieces exude a theatrical narrative, evoking memories of
magical tales.
Enjoy browsing and keep an eye out for that very special piece
that just has to come home to you. Many galleries are currently
offering free UK delivery.
Online Collections, March- May
Rye Art Gallery, 107 High Street, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7JE
Tel: 01797 222433
www.ryeartgallery.co.uk
Online Collection
Sea Pictures Gallery, Well House, Well Lane, Clare,
Suffolk CO10 8NH
Tel: 01787 279024
www.seapicturesgallery.com
107

HUNTINGDON TOWN HALL
The beautifully restored Grade II* Listed Georgian Town Hall is situated on
the historic Market Square in Huntingdon. The building boasts two
renovated Court Rooms to provide a unique and intimate setting for up to
60 guests. For larger ceremonies, the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber
provide elegant spaces for parties of up to 120.
We are currently taking bookings for 2021. If you are interested in booking,
please get in touch by emailing Hayley.burns@huntingdontown.gov.uk or
call 01480 410380. Please be assured that in the event that your booking is
impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, we will work with you to reschedule or
cancel your booking at no cost.
For more information on Huntingdon Town Hall weddings,
visit www.huntingdontownweddings.co.uk

On the
Canvas
Discover the latest art
exhibitions in the region
The Great Big Art Exhibition
The Great Big Art Exhibition launched on 28 January 2021 and will run until the end
of April. It calls for the nation to create work following leading artists who will choose a
different theme each fortnight.
People across the UK are being invited to make works of art to put up in their front
windows to create the nation’s largest ever exhibition – a celebration of creativity to
counter the gloom of the pandemic.
© David Parry_PA Wire
Work can be submitted from individuals or as a community, by joining up ‘virtually’ with
neighbours, schools, churches or football teams for example, to produce memorable
and exciting artwork.
Presented by Firstsite, Colchester, to celebrate its 10th anniversary and supported by
the Plus Tate Network, which includes leading museums and galleries across the UK,
artworks can be made of anything. Firstsite will be making key works from across the UK
available for download to use as a template, for colouring in or as an inspiration.
www.firstsite.uk
The Robins Project
The Robins Project aims to celebrate the lives of children and adults facing
life-threatening conditions by providing professional photography sessions,
free-of-charge.
Developed by Kristi Atkinson, the photographs will not tell a bleak story, but instead
focus on joy, family, and what it means to truly live. It is a wonderful service that helps
families capture lasting memories.
For more information visit www.humanknd.co.uk/the-robins-project
‘Moments’ Exhibition of Modern Art
Featuring some of the world’s best-known contemporary artists, ‘Moments’ exhibition will
open on Sunday 2 May and run for an extended time of five months until Thursday, 30
September at Moyse’s Hall Museum, Bury St Edmunds.
© John Brandler
Artists will include Banksy, Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, Kaws, Pure Evil, Connor Brothers
and Rachel List, with both original artworks and prints.
The exhibition, which will be of national importance and interest, is a major coup for West
Suffolk Council which runs Moyse’s Hall Museum. It will play a major role in helping the
town’s economic recovery, after the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent
lockdowns.
It will be supplemented by a range of workshops, live art demonstrations, artist talks and
pop-up activities themed around the concept of ‘moments’, some will be suitable for
school and college students. These activities will take place at various locations around
the town including The Apex entertainment centre.
109

Essex
Exploring Uttlesford;
a Rural Road Trip
Historic market towns and over 100 villages and hamlets make
up this area of North Essex. The bustling small towns are full
of independent business and are surrounded by miles of
country walks. It’s no wonder the district regularly lands in the
top five as one of the best places to live in the UK – it’s rural
living at its finest.
You could easily visit most of the towns and slightly larger
villages within one day. A rural road trip could be just the
socially distanced spring activity you need. On your travels
you’ll discover over 3,500 historic listed buildings, conservation
areas, stunning churches, thatched cottages, tearooms and
cosy country pubs.
Start your journey in Saffron Walden. Combining the best of
both worlds, it’s where old meets new. You can often feel as
though you’ve been transported to a time gone by while doing
your grocery shopping. A wander around the cobbled streets,
while popping into independent boutiques and admiring the
historic architecture is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
Market day takes place every Tuesday and Saturday, but on
quieter days take advantage of a stroll around the manicured
lawns of The Common, which features a playground and turf
maze. Seek out Bridge End Garden hidden in the back streets of
the town. The grade II listed space consists of seven interlinked
gardens and a popular hedge maze. Saffron Walden is also
home to English Heritage’s Audley End House and Gardens
which features immaculate landscaped gardens, a Victorian
country house, service wing, stable yard and café.
From here, hop in the car and travel via the villages of Newport
and Quendon. It’s worth finding a spot to park. Both have a
number of country walks and a stunning church. Carry on
towards Stansted Mountfitchet. A small town with a number
of eateries. The Cork House on the corner is a stylish pub with
outdoor seating and a tapas menu.
110

Essex
If you’re not quite ready for lunch wait until your next stop, Great
Dunmow. The town has seen significant growth in recent years
with an increase in housing developments. Crooked pastelcoloured
buildings line the High Street and house independent
retailers and businesses. The town is one of few in the country
that is made up almost entirely of independent businesses.
At the centre you’ll find the war memorial and clock tower, a
reference to its history. Trendy eateries, timeless inns with a
gastro vibe and quaint tearooms are dotted around the town for
those looking for a bite to eat. The Flitch House, Angel & Harp
and Square1 Restaurant are favourites amongst locals. Work off
your lunch with a walk around the Doctor’s Pond. The next stop
is Thaxted. Though it’s worth making a small detour to explore
the pretty villages of Stebbing or Felsted. On route to Thaxted,
make time for a walk around The Gardens of Easton Lodge; an
idyllic grade II listed garden that looks beautiful all year.
Thaxted is instantly recognisable by its timber-framed Guildhall,
windmill and colourful medieval cottages. Its history dates
back to before the Domesday Book, and much of its character
still remains. It’s easy to spend time simply walking along and
admiring the architecture. There’s a sense of community spirit
with welcoming businesses and restaurants. Each year it hosts
the Thaxted Morris Men and the Thaxted Festival.
The road out of Thaxted will lead you back to Saffron Walden,
however during the journey you can make pitstops at a number
of country villages including the Sampfords, followed by
Wimbish which is home to a small garden centre. It is located
opposite a cool café called Bonnefirebox, known for its wood
fired pizza. Next stop is Debden. Visit the Debden Barns; a
quirky rural business that features an antiques and home
decor store, florist and barn café with a courtyard terrace and
extensive seating on the lawn.
Stomachs full and horizons broadened, you’ll be planning your
move to this corner of Essex in no time.
111

Moving?
De-cluttering?
Clearing the garage?
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Tel: 01245 225420
Fax: 01245 227672
Mob: 07799 654107
www.allcrates.co.uk
INGATESTONE HALL
Hall Lane, Ingatestone,
Essex, CM4 9NR
(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.)
16 th 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
A PERFECT SETTING for your wedding or family
celebration The House and/or Gardens are also available
for hire for public or private events such as weddings,
concerts exhibitions or corporate events.
By prior arrangement, guided tours for groups or school
visits are also offered outside normal opening hours
For more information, see our website:
www.ingatestonehall.com
Tel. 01277 353010
Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk
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112

Essex
Essex
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
25-Apr Milkshake Monkey’s Musical
Milkshake Monkey can’t wait for his new musical but when stage
fright hits, his favourite Milkshake friends come to help, creating
the most dazzling show you have ever seen!
Charter Hall, Cowdray Ave, Colchester, CO1 1YH
01206 573948 www.colchester-events.co.uk
29-Apr Arsenal Legends in Conversation
Star striker Paul Merson, Ray “The Romford Pele” Parlour and
fans’ favourite midfielder Perry Grove talk about their actionpacked
careers with a chance to pose questions during the
evening.
Harlow Playhouse Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS
01279 431945 www.harlowplayhouse.co.uk
02-May Friends - The Musical Parody
A hilarious look at the TV phenomenon that ruled the 90’s.
Celebrating and poking fun at some of the iconic moments of
the 20-somethings as they navigate the pitfalls of work, life and
love in 1990’s Manhattan.
Princes Theatre, Town Hall, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE
01255 686633 www.princestheatre.co.uk
28-29May Jack Dee Off The Telly
New stand-up tour. “In these difficult and uncertain times people
need hope – a ray of sunshine to brighten their day. And that’s
very much where I come in” says Jack.
Cliffs Pavillion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA
01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
MUSIC
07-May The Legends of American Country
Award winning show with tributes to Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash,
Patsy Cline, Kenny Rogers and more. Prepare to be transported,
hand clapping and toe tapping, to Nashville and back in one
night.
West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-on-Sea, Tower Road, Clacton,
CO15 1LE
01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
09-May The Glen Miller Story
A feast of Glenn Miller hits and the music of The Andrew Sisters,
Vera Lynn and Frank Sinatra which raised the morale of the
Allies, plus a selection songs from Showboat to Chicago.
Princes Theatre, Town Hall, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE
01255 686633 www.princestheatre.co.uk
10-May Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Kitchen Disco Tour
Sophie’s Instagram Kitchen Discos provided virtual escapism for
many during lockdown. Now, Sophie brings all of the camp and
frivolity of her original show to the stage.
Cliffs Pavillion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA
01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
27Mar-4Jul
All Fired Up:
A History of Firefighting in Essex
Exhibits include a wide range of artefacts, photographs,
uniforms and equipment which trace the history of firefighting in
Essex from Victorian times to the present day.
Saffron Walden Museum, Museum Street, Saffron Walden,
CB10 1JL
01799 510333 www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org
22May-13Jun Estuary 2021
Large-scale arts festival celebrating the Thames Estuary.
Artworks set in the landscape, online and within Covid-safe
venues explore the estuary through the lens of contemporary
concerns.
Multiple locations across the Thames Estuary region
www.estuaryfestival.com
SPECIAL EVENTS
27Mar-11Apr
Easter Special at Audley End
Miniature Railway
Hop aboard a train and venture deep into the woods to find the
Easter Bunny and receive a gift. Wander around the magical
Easter Trail and let off steam in the adventure play area.
Audley End Road, Audley End, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB
01799 510726 www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
18-Apr April Open Day
Enjoy a relaxed stroll around the gardens. Locally sourced
bacon, cheese or hummus rolls and homemade cakes
available. Garden produce and plants for sale.
The Gardens of Eastern Lodge Little Easton, Dunmow, CM6 2BD
01371 876979 www.eastonlodge.co.uk
30Apr-3May
Spring Craft Fair
Craftspeople and designer-makers selling fine art, photography,
jewellery, ceramics, textiles and contemporary crafts. Plus
demonstrations, music, food and the garden in full spring
bloom.
RHS Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Rettendon Common,
Chelmsford, CM3 8ET
01245 402019 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall
2-3May Knights of Hedingham
A fun-filled Medieval re-enactment with hand to hand combat,
horses and magical fighting. Will the lords of the land stand with
the tyrant king or with the people?
Castle Hedingham, Bayley Street, Halstead, CO9 3DJ
01787 460261 www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
11-Apr Antique & Vintage Market
Outside stalls with some inside a marquee. Jewellery, silver,
coins, fashion, furniture, sculpture, garden ornaments, curios,
art, collectables, ceramics, bric-a-brac and more.
Museum of Power, Langford, Maldon, CM9 6QA
07519 276507 www.haddonevents.co.uk
113

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Bedfordshire
Woburn:
5 Hidden Gems
The historic Abbey
and popular Safari
Park have always
attracted visitors to
Woburn but there’s
more to explore in
this pretty Georgian
village
WOBURN MOSAIC
An art lover’s dream…with a twist. By
day, Woburn Mosaic is a contemporary
art gallery, specialising in original
painting, sculpture, glass and ceramics.
By night, the entire space transforms
into a relaxing lounge bar. Much of the
work remains on display so, wherever
you choose to sit, you are surrounded
by art to admire while sipping wine and
tucking into a sharing platter.
www.woburnmosaic.co.uk
WOBURN LIDO
Gifted to the village by the Duke of
Bedford in 1911, Woburn Lido will be
110 years old this year. It is a popular
summer attraction in a lovely setting
adjoining the Woburn Abbey Estate,
with plenty of space for picnics and
sunbathing. Last winter, for the first
time, the Lido opened for cold water
swimming which proved a big hit. The
pool is heated from May throughout
the summer months. Book a session at
www.woburnlido.weebly.com.
THE WINE CELLAR
Situated in the heart of the village,
The Wine Cellar is an independent
retailer offering hand-crafted stock from
family-owned wineries. Pop in or visit
www.thewinecellar.wine to book an
enlightening wine tasting event with a
cheese and charcuterie board. Recent
events have seen these expand to the
Zoom platform. Available nationally,
each online tasting is designed for two
people with wine delivered in small
bottles along with a cheese platter and
tasting notes.
WOBURN MARKET
The third Sunday of each month sees
the Farmers’ Market take place in the
centre of the village. Offering an array of
produce from local farmers and artisan
producers, the popular 800-year-old
street market continues to attract both
new and regular customers. There is
plenty of free parking so make a day
of it by having lunch in one of the
many restaurants and browsing the
independent shops.
WOBURN GOLF CLUB
With three championship courses
and superb hospitality, Woburn has
everything required for a perfect
golf day. The historic Abbey and
surrounding Estate provide a stunning
backdrop while each course offers
a different challenge for golfers of
all abilities. Named after some of the
world’s greatest golfers, the Masters
Lounge is the perfect place to relax after
your round. Spring visitor packages are
now available.
www.woburngolf.co.uk
115

Exceptional care, companionship and support for your total peace of mind
Signature at Bentley House has an unwavering commitment to creating safe and welcoming
environments for our residents. We are proud to announce that all of our residents and staff have
now been offered the COVID-19 vaccine, providing total peace of mind and reassurance as we look
forward to spring.
We are actively welcoming new residents to Bentley House offering assisted living, nursing and
dementia care in apartment style accommodation. Residents can enjoy a varied programme of
activities and entertainment in expansive communal areas that allow for social distancing.
Safety remains at the forefront of everything we do, having invested in specialist training, equipment
and rigorous additional health protocols – often setting industry firsts.
To find out more about how Signature at Bentley House can provide total peace of
mind for you and your loved ones, please contact Kendra or Dominic today.
01992 721 108 | enquiries.bentley@signaturesl.co.uk | signature-care-homes.co.uk

Bedfordshire
Beds
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
3-5Mar Dalloway
Adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s celebrated map of hearts, minds
and memories offering a compellingly feminist response to the
aftermath of the First World War.
The Place Online
www.theplacebedford.org.uk
17-Apr How The Koala Learnt To Hug
Ten years after the publication of Steven Lee’s best-selling
book, this family musical reminds us why there’s nothing quite
as wonderful as a nice warm hug.
Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN
01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
08-May Woodland Tales with Granddad
Machines are gathering at the edge of the wood and the
animals are worried. Only Granddad can help them now. But is
there enough time to save the wood?
Leighton Buzzard Theatre, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard,
LU7 1RX
0300 300 8125 www.centralbedfordshire.com
16-May The Shires
With their hearts in the UK and their heads in Nashville, The
Shires combine the best of both musical worlds. The duo are
the UK’s most successful country music act.
Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL
01234 718044 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk
21-May Beegees Tribute & Disco
Performing all of the hits, from the Night Fever classics to the
more modern songs. The show will be followed by a disco till
late so don’t forget your flares...
Forest of Marston Vale, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PS
01234 718044 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
06-Mar Science Lab at Home
To celebrate British Science Week, The Higgins Bedford has
teamed up with local providers for a day filled with free handson
science, animal encounters and interactive online fun..
01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk
8-12Mar Bedfordshire Festival of Music,
Speech & Drama
Annual showcase of talent in amateur performing arts in
Bedfordshire and the surrounding area with classes for all ages.
This year’s festival will take place online.
07824 829097 www.bedfordshirefestival.org.uk
9-20Mar Inside/Outside
Cecilia Gatehouse makes wall sculpture using wire drawings
with fabrics, beads and buttons. Jill Taylor is an abstract painter
who works with shapes, colour and rough texture.
The Eagle Gallery, 20 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN
01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
16-May An Audience with Anton Du Beke
Join the King of Ballroom and Strictly legend for an intimate
evening of conversation, laughter, song and dance. Get up
close and personal with Mr Showbusiness himself.
Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP
01582 602080 www.grovetheatre.co.uk
MUSIC
15-May Worbey & Farrell
Internationally acclaimed concert pianists and Steinway
ensemble with a wicked sense of humour. You’ve never seen a
piano played like this before!
Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN
01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
21Mar-4Apr
Daffodil Festival
Take a tour with the Head Gardener, find out about the Swiss
Garden’s past, listen to a talk by Daffodil specialist Johnny
Walkers or take a self-guided walk around the Daffodil Trail.
Shuttleworth Swiss Garden, Old Warden, SG18 9EP
01767 627927 www.shuttleworth.org
02-May Season Premiere Drive-In Display
Expect thrilling air displays from historic aircraft and explore the
beautiful Swiss Garden. A great day out for the whole family!
Shuttleworth Estate, Old Warden, Nr Biggleswade, SG18 9EP
01767 627927 www.shuttleworth.org
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
02-May Flitwick Antique Fair
Offering a wide range of quality antiques and vintage
collectables. Homemade food served all day, disabled facilities
and plenty of free parking.
Flitwick Village Hall, Dunstable Road, Flitwick, MK45 1HP
www.pastpastiche.com
117

Hertfordshire
Hertford & Ware
Up too late for
breakfast but too
hungry to wait for
lunch? Brunch,
the meal that
combines the two,
is the answer. From
bottomless brunch
with prosecco to a
traditional fry up
with a pot of tea,
we’ve rounded up
the best places to
brunch in Hertford
and Ware.
Salisbury Arms Hotel
Fore Street, Hertford, SG14 1BZ
Tel: 01992 583091
Open all day, every day offering
traditional cooked breakfasts, buttermilk
pancakes, eggs ‘served your way’,
smashed avocado and more. This
beautiful 18th century building is
perfectly situated for refuelling after a
cycle or countryside walk and, if you’ve
been strolling with your pooch, they are
welcome too.
www.salisburyarmshotel.co.uk
Mudlarks Café
32 Fore Street, Hertford, SG13 1BY
Tel: 01992 538515
Hertford’s only vegetarian and vegan
café, Mudlarks is a fantastic community
project providing training and paid
work for adults with learning disabilities.
Vegetables are grown on their own
allotment while cakes, pastries and
bread are made by their on-site bakers.
Gluten, wheat and dairy-free options are
available, and the café is wheelchair,
pushchair, breastfeeding and dog
friendly.
www.mudlarksgarden.org.uk
The Old Barge
The Folly, Hertford, SG14 1QD.
Tel: 01992 581871
A traditional family pub in an idyllic
riverside setting in the centre of
Hertford. Brunch is served from 10am
to 1pm every Saturday and Sunday.
Menu highlights include a vegetarian
full English with halloumi instead of
bacon, savoury and sweet waffles plus
the option of a Prosecco Mimosa or
Bloody Mary to liven up your visit or
recover from the night before. Dogs are
welcome in the garden.
www.theoldbarge.com
Bebo
1 Railway Square, Hertford, SR14 1BG
Tel: 01992 848556
It’s all about the coffee at Bebo’s with
both their Italian and a special blend
always on offer in their charming,
character-filled building with exposed
beams and wooden floors. Brunch
is cooked to order until noon on
weekdays and all day at the weekends
with everything from a gourmet fry up
to American pancakes, waffles, eggs
Benedict, bagels, baguettes and more.
www.bebocafe.com
118

Hertfordshire
Brunch Guide
Hertford House
1 Fore Street, Hertford, SG14 1DA
Tel: 01992 517440
A beautifully converted Grade II listed
Georgian townhouse hotel in the heart
of the town. Alongside the classics, the
weekend brunch menu showcases
spicy breakfast tacos, buttermilk
pancake stacks and smoked duck hash
with the added bonus of a DIY Bloody
Mary bar. If you still want more, try their
‘Bottomless Brunch’ with unlimited
cocktails, prosecco, wine or beer.
www.hertfordhouse.co.uk
Rose Café
33 Railway Street, Hertford, SG14 1BG
Tel: 01992 553524
If you’re looking for a traditional café
offering all-day breakfasts, cooked in the
kitchen from scratch, this is your place.
One of Hertford’s most popular eateries,
Rose Café is renowned for serving
generous portions of tasty food with a
proper cup of tea at reasonable prices.
Vegan options are available.
Cinnabar
88-96 Fore Street, Hertford, SG14 1AA
Tel: 01992 660660
A bustling restaurant and cocktail bar
with a reputation for being Hertford’s
number one breakfast and brunch
venue. Feel saintly by choosing
smashed avocado, feta and sun-dried
tomatoes on sourdough or the coconut
and passion fruit porridge with cacao
nibs. Satisfy a bigger hunger with a
traditional breakfast or balsamic glazed
chorizo and potato hash. Gluten-free
and vegan options available.
www.cinnabarvenues.co.uk
Ware to Eat
20-22 Baldock Street, Ware, SG12 9DZ
Tel: 01920 486808
A family-run business, specialising in
all day breakfasts and brunches freshly
cooked to order with bread supplied
from a local bakery. Ware to Eat is a
traditional café offering a full English
or build your own breakfast plus a
selection of homemade daily specials.
Milady Tea & Coffee
Lounge
12 High Street, Ware, SG12 9BX
Tel: 01920 469997
A family-run, popular little café in the
centre of Ware. Brunch dishes, which
are served all day until 4pm, include
avocado and egg on toast with smoked
salmon, double eggs Benedict with
spinach, breakfast baguettes, hot
sandwiches, pancakes, waffles and
more.
www.milady-ware.co.uk
The Mexican at Jacoby’s
13-15 West St, Ware, SG12 9EE
Tel: 01920 449559
Want to spice things up a little? Head
to this restaurant and cocktail bar for
a Full Ingles or Full Mexican, breakfast
burritos, huevos rancheros, quesadilla
tradicional and churros with chocolate
for dipping. A great Sunday morning
hangover cure especially if you add
a Bloody Mary, Breakfast Margarita,
Cerveza Cubana or Mimosa from their
‘Hair of the Dog’ drinks menu.
www.themexicancantina.co.uk
119

Hertfordshire
Visit Watford,
Hemel Hempstead
& Kings Langley
With bustling town centres, fun entertainment venues and award-winning open
spaces, the south-west corner of Hertfordshire has something for everyone.

Hertfordshire
Warner Bros Studio Tours
Located at the studios where the Harry Potter films were made,
this tour showcases the iconic sets, animatronic creatures
and breathtaking special effects. Enter the magical, wizarding
world by wandering down Diagon Alley, visiting The Great Hall,
exploring the Forbidden Forest and boarding the Hogwarts
Express at Platform 9 3 /4. www.wbstudiotour.co.uk
The Lincolnsfields Centre
Home to The Forties Experience, the Centre is open to the
public on the last Sunday of the month. On these open days
you can experience how life was in the 1940s, with hands-on
interaction while volunteers talk you through the artefacts on
display and answer any questions you may have about the
decade. www.lincolnsfields.co.uk
Cassiobury Park
This Green Flag award-winning beauty spot is the jewel in
Watford’s crown. With wide open spaces, ancient woodland,
tranquil canal, children’s playground, miniature railway and café,
it offers everything for a great day out. At the edge of the park
you’ll find Cassiobury Farm, a rare breeds centre housing micro
pigs, miniature horses, alpacas and more.
www.watford.gov.uk/cassioburypark
Shopping
With over 140 stores, restaurants and leisure attractions,
Watford’s spacious retail centre is a great place to shop, dine
and play. Located in the heart of the town and housing all the
big brands plus a nine-screen cinema, bowling alley and indoor
climbing, it’s certain to be a crowd-pleaser.
www.watford-shopping.co.uk
Cheslyn House & Gardens
Discover Watford’s best kept secret. Designed by renowned
architect Henry Colbeck and his wife, Daisy, the gardens display
unusual and exotic plants collected while travelling the world.
Imaginatively laid out with a pond, fernery, herbaceous borders,
aviary and a dense woodland garden, which is full of colour in
spring. Dogs on leads are allowed in the gardens.
www.watford.gov.uk
Planet Ice
An ice rink offering fun family sessions, open skate times,
birthday parties and disco evenings. If you want to take things
more seriously, they also offer lessons in figure skating, ice
dancing and ice hockey: a great way to develop confidence,
balance and fitness. Cute penguin skating aids are available for
beginners to hang on to while you find your ice legs!
www.planet-ice.co.uk
Bhaktivedanta Manor
Originally gifted to the Hare Krishna movement by the Beatle
George Harrison, this stunning mock Tudor mansion is a
sanctuary with beautiful gardens, a children’s playground, farm
and lake. It’s open all year for visitors to explore the grounds or
take part in yoga classes, mantra meditation, vegetarian cookery
and inspirational talks. www.bhaktivedantamanor.co.uk
The Watford Museum
Housed in the former Benskins Brewery, the museum tells the
story of the town’s past and present with displays of local history,
industry and archaeology. Topics include Watford at war, print,
brewing and Watford Football Club with some fabulous Elton
John memorabilia. www.watfordmuseum.org.uk
Watford Palace Theatre
Opened in 1908, this beautiful 600-seat Edwardian Palace
Theatre is a Grade II listed building. The popular venue offers
something for everyone with inclusive drama, plays, musicals,
dance, free outdoor festivals, stand-up and, of course, the
much-loved traditional pantomime.
www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
The Snow Centre
Here you’ll find a huge 160m main slope as well as the UK’s
largest indoor lesson slope with perfect real snow conditions
all year round. Catering for both beginners and pros, the centre
also has a bar, coffee shop and alpine themed restaurant where
you can relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the action.
www.thesnowcentre.com
Langleybury Children’s Farm
A farm run by volunteers where you can get close to all of the
animals including sheep, pigs, goats, ducks, geese, chickens,
rabbits, owls, aviary birds and ferrets. Bring a picnic or buy a light
lunch at the farm shop and let your kids let off steam in the play
area with bouncy castle and mini football pitch.
www.langleyburychildrensfarm.org.uk
121

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ENJOYSTALBANS.COM
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Hertfordshire
Herts
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
10-Apr Car Park Party Presents: David Walliams’
Billionaire Boy
Joe Spud is very rich. He has a sports car, £100k a week pocket
money and two pet crocodiles. Can Joe find the one thing money
can’t buy?
Knebworth House, Old Knebworth Lane, Stevenage SG3 6PY
01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com
15-Apr Meet Me a Tree
An interactive first opera for 0-2 year olds with music by
Schumann, Delibes and Monteverdi as well as nursery rhymes
and original songs.
South Mill Arts, 1 -3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG
01279 710200 www.southmillarts.co.uk
18-May Pam Ayres: Up in the Attic
Pam Ayres, who has been making the nation laugh for over 40
years, performs poems from her new book along with classics
from her long career.
The Gordon Craig Theatre Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way,
Stevenage, SG1 1LZ
01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk
20-22May Horrible Histories (Socially Distanced)
Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians! Can you see eye
to eye with Admiral Nelson? Will you be saved by Florence
Nightingale? A horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!
Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS
01992 504537 www.hertfordtheatre.com
MUSIC
30-Mar Rose Royce featuring Gwen Dickey
Car Wash kick-started the band’s career and hit after hit
followed including Wishing On A Star, Is It Love You’re After and
Love Don’t Live Here Anymore.
The Gordon Craig Theatre, Arts & Leisure Centre Lytton Way,
Stevenage, SG1 1LZ
01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk
27-May The Wild Murphy’s perform:
One Night in Dublin
The multi-award winning Irish band perform great Irish songs by
The Pogues, The Dubliners, The Fureys, The Saw Doctors and
more.
Watersmeet, High Street, Rickmansworth, WD3 1EH
01923 711063 www.watersmeet.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
10Mar-18Apr
Arriving and Belonging
Experiences of Jewish people in Britain and how they became
part of the city. Fascinating stories bring to life the themes of
sanctuary, courage, compassion, work and community.
Online Exhibition
01279 710200 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk
10Apr-8May
Hertford Arts Trail
Pop-up art exhibition in venues around the town centre
including bars and cafés, beauty salons, clothes retailers and
gift shops. Free of charge.
Hertford Town Centre
www.gohertford.co.uk
11-Apr Easter in Art
Shot on location in Jerusalem, USA and Europe, this film
explores how artists have depicted the Easter story through the
ages and thus depicts the history of us all.
The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway,
St. Albans, AL4 9NX
01727 799565 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
20-Mar NGS Gardens Open for Charity
Enjoy spring bulbs in the lime walk, sundial and Old Palace
garden, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I. The woodland
has masses of naturalised daffodils and bluebells.
Hatfield House, Great North Rd, Hatfield, AL9 5HX
www.hatfield-house.co.uk
1Apr-30Jun
A Celebration of Slytherin
Known for its ambition and links to dark magic, Slytherin is home
to some of the greatest wizards. Discover the secrets behind the
costumes and props of your favourite cunning characters.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden,
WD25 7LR
0800 640 4550 www.wbstudiotour.co.uk
05-Apr Tudor Legacies - Meet Henry VIII,
his Wives & Children
Interact and engage with Henry VIII, his six wives and his
children. Find out what it was really like to be married to one of
history’s most infamous kings.
Hatfield House, Great North Rd, Hatfield, AL9 5HX
www.hatfield-house.co.uk
30-May Slam Dunk Festival
The number one pop-punk, rock and alternative festival in the
UK is returning to Hatfield House for 2021!
Hatfield Park, Great North Rd, Hatfield, AL9 5HX
www.slamdunkfestival.com
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
21-Mar St Albans Antique & Vintage Market
An outdoor street market right in the heart of this amazing
Cathedral City bringing all manner of antiques, vintage,
brocante and architectural salvage.
St Peters Street, St.Albans
www.enjoystalbans.com
123

Visitor Attraction
With the aid of Heritage Lottery Funding,
Oliver Cromwell’s House will be introducing a
new and exciting audio tour, both for adult and
family groups (coming Summer 2021!).
www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
Our products and services we offer are wide and varied and we
are a small independent company which means we can stock
what we want and are not controlled by the manufacturers of
the products we stock.
We hold stock on the most popular ranges of cookware and
bakeware and can order in if required, anything that we do
not hold as a stock item at the time of your visit.
If you ever need our advice we have well trained staff that are
always on hand to help with advice on our product ranges.
If you only require a part for an accessory then please ask as
we also carry many of these on the premises too.
Why not enhance your tour by taking a take a short
trip to further understand Cromwell’s fascinating and
controversial story and visit our friends at the Cromwell
Museum, where many original artefacts are housed in
the original building where Cromwell went to school.
www.cromwellmuseum.org.
36 Market Place, Oundle
Peterborough, PE8 4BE
Tel/Fax: 01832 275414
FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY SERVICE
You can order your prescription medicines from us and
we can deliver to your door free of charge.
We deliver for free to these areas:
Cambridge - CB1, CB2, CB3, CB4 & CB5.
It is quick and easy to arrange, just give us
a call on 01223 354383 or visit:
www.petersfieldpharmacy.co.uk/sign-up-today/
We also offer a range of other services including flu
vaccinations, travel vaccinations, weight loss advice,
professional health and wellbeing guidance, emergency
contraception, dossett boxes and minor ailment advice
Petersfield Pharmacy, 56 Mill Road, Cambridge, CB1 2AS
“Excellent and helpful staff. Very polite. Fast and free
delivery of prescriptions. I would highly recommend.” Lucy A.
Cambridge’s Premier
Giclée Print Provider
With full in-house bespoke
Picture Framing Services
“Their print reproduction
expertise and framing
craftmanship is beyond
professional and my customers
never fail to be delighted with
their work. Highly recommended.”
Andy Robinson, Artist
Rectory Farm, Pampisford, CB22 3EN
www.photoartgb.com
info@photoartgb.com
01223
831144
124

Cambridgeshire
Cambridge Scene:
Spanish Cuisine
If you can’t get away to European shores this year, fear not, Cambridge
is packed with tantalising cuisines to tempt your tastebuds.
Terracotta dishes full of garlicky seafood,
espresso with a punch and delicate
white wine, all enjoyed on cobbled
streets or in restaurants with open
windows. No, we’re not describing a
scene from a town in Spain but some of
the best restaurants in Cambridge.
The city is bursting with Mediterranean
flavour. To fine dining and the back street
bars you’d usually find in the likes of
Barcelona, we’ve listed the best locations
in the city to sample a taste of Spain.
Mercado Central
Located on Green Street, Mercado
Central is inspired by Spain’s historic
markets and restaurants, with a particular
focus on Galician and Basque heritage.
The interior is chic and simple with an
open kitchen. The food is centre stage
here. Choose from a range of authentic
dishes using seasonal produce. The
sharing dishes will transport you to the
coast of Galicia with a choice of prawns,
clams and octopus. The Fish Counter
serves up fresh catches and changes
with the seasons. On a sunny day nab an
outside table, order a sangria and watch
the world go by.
www.mercadocentral.co.uk
La Latina
For Latino vibes head to The Grafton
Centre, where you’ll find La Latina on the
top floor in the food court. A new location
for the south American eatery, in addition
to its converted double decker bus at
Cambridge Retail Park, it serves up fresh
tropical juices, empandas, pulled meats,
desserts and Colombian coffee. When
life returns to normal there are plans to
offer Spanish language classes and salsa
lessons too!
www.facebook.com/lalatinabustaurante
Tabanco
You’ll find this Andalucían inspired
restaurant on Green Street. Staying true
to its culture the menu features Iberian
charcuterie, artisan cheese, fish and
traditional tapas. On warm, sunny days
the bi-folding windows are opened,
and diners gather in the window
seats, clinking glasses and tucking
into sharing plates. If it wasn’t for
Cambridge’s surrounding architecture,
you could easily mistake this for a
bodega in Seville.
www.tabanco.co.uk
Que Rico Tapas
Bring Spain to your home with the
help of caters Que Rico Tapas. While
some services such as a private chef
and cooking lessons are currently
postponed due to the pandemic, online
cookery classes are available. Learn
how to cook traditional dishes along
with wine pairing from the comfort of
your own kitchen while practicing your
Spanish. Classes are priced £125.
www.quericotapas.com
125

We mainly specialise in silver, gemstone
and leather jewellery for both men and
women. We also have a lovely range of new
baby gifts, handbags, purses, scarves,
and gifts for all occasions.
D I S C O V E R T H E B E A U T Y O F
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P E T S A N D F A M I L I E S W E L C O M E
P U T T I N G T H E R & R I N T O
13 Market Hill, St Ives, PE27 5AL
01480 495198
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/CloudNineGems
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Rest & Relaxation
126

Cambridgeshire
A Day Guide to
Ely
Think of a Cambridgeshire city and immediately Cambridge
springs to mind, but as the weather improves, why not avoid
the crowds and heaving traffic and instead, take a trip to the
beautiful city of Ely?
Ely has plenty to discover including a wealth of shops, great
restaurants, bars and cafes, fascinating museums and galleries,
green open spaces and a magical stretch of riverside. Absorb
the atmosphere and character of this small city with its
intriguing mix of old and new with many quaint side streets,
always bustling but never frantic. Read our guide to the best
things to do and see to make the most of your trip.
Ely Cathedral
Wander around this magnificent building famous for its
octagon tower or take advantage of having a more informative
experience with a guided tour. Tours also include optional visits
to the octagon and west towers where the spectacular views
make it well worth the climb. www.elycathedral.org
Oliver Cromwell’s House
Home to the Tourist Information Centre, the former family
home of Oliver Cromwell features a ‘Civil War Exhibition’, the
opportunity to try on costumes and play games. It’s also home
to an Escape Room. Tours available.
www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
Eel Trail
At the TIC, pick up a copy of the Eel Trail which is a self-guided,
circular walk around the city centre. This is the best way to
ensure that you see all the beauty and glory of Ely as well as
learn about the city’s history and origins including why Ely is
in love with eels and why it has its own Eel Festival! This year’s
event is planned for 7-10 May, but check before visiting.
www.elyeelfestival.co.uk
Ely Museum
Before leaving the city centre, take the time to visit Ely Museum.
Discover the story of Ely from pre-historic times to the 20th
century set in the city’s former gaol.
www.elymuseum.org.uk
Waterside
Ely’s Waterside is a hotspot for visitors wishing to relax and
enjoy afternoon tea or to take a boat trip. Stop off at one of the
traditional tea rooms or restaurants or take a trip along the Great
River Ouse on board the Liberty Belle, Ely’s Fenland Cruiser
(Easter to October) and enjoy the live commentary.
www.facebook.com/LibertyBelleEly
Dining
Ely’s food scene is diverse. Enjoy lunch at trendy kitchen and
cocktail lounge Eleven A or pick up pastries to go on your
travels from one of the many cafés. Ely is the perfect setting for
indulging in an afternoon tea. A firm favourite is The Old Fire
Engine House, a restaurant gallery set in a Georgian house
surrounded by a beautiful garden of fruit trees, herbs and
flowers. Peacock’s Tearoom with its wisteria covered exterior
and riverside location is perfect for watching the world go
by over a cuppa. There’s pub grub at the cosy, oak beamed
Lamb pub and The Cutter Inn on the waterfront. The Almonry
is known for its bistro dining and fantastic garden with views of
the cathedral.
For more information visit www.visitely.org.uk
127

Fenchurch House Care Home
Vaccinating against Covid-19
Fenchurch House provides the kind of care we’d want all of our loved ones to receive. Our
brand new home is beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that
makes Fenchurch House feel extra special. If you’re concerned about how your relative is
coping and would like them to have more support, Fenchurch House provides family-led care
in a luxurious and homely environment. The Covid-19 vaccine will be offered to all those in our
care, allowing them to live safely and as they wish.
• Bistro Café
• Fisherman’s Arms Pub
• Hair and pamper salon
• Tailored meaningful activities
• Daily Fine Dining
• Luxury en-suite bedrooms
01775 711 959
Spalding Common, Spalding,
Lincolnshire, PE11 3AS
www.countrycourtcare.com

Cambridgeshire
Cambs
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
11-Mar Keep on Track with Ray Mears
In this fascinating and educational show, Ray demonstrates and
explains techniques that will help us improve our senses and
highlights the problems nature faces today.
Vivacity’s Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF
01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
5-9Apr Bleak House
Charles Dickens’ tale of a family who wait in vain to inherit
money from a disputed fortune. Blending detective fiction,
romance and satire, the story illustrates what Dickens
considered to be the principle of English law... to make business
for itself.
ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS
01223 300085 www.adctheatre.com
19-Apr Jess Fostekew: Hench
Absolute powershed and regular host of The Guilty Feminist,
Jessica explores her big strong strength. Ever watched a
feminist try and take ‘hench’ as a compliment? It’s like watching
a snake eat but funny. “
The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX
01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk
28-Apr Rob Brydon - A Night of Songs & Laughter
The award winning comedian and his eight-piece band with
songs from Tom Waits to Tom Jones and Guys and Dolls to
Elvis. Expect Rob’s usual humour as well as his famed gallery of
voices.
Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge,
CB2 3QE
01223 357851 www.cambridgelive.org.uk
MUSIC
17-23Mar Cambridge Music Festival
Ceebrating its 30th year with artists including cello/piano duo
Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason, pianist Stephen Hough and
the Choir of King’s College. Online alternatives planned if
necessary.
Multiple venues in Cambridge
www.cambridgemusicfestival.co.uk
21-Apr Wardruna
Masterful storytellers Wardruna have carved a dramatic musical
landscape illuminating Norse tradition through contemporary
composition. Beyond genre, theirs is a sound that must be
experienced.
Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge,
CB2 3QE
01223 357851 www.cambridgelive.co.uk
27-Apr Flook
Twenty six years after their first gig, Flook continue to enchant.
Taking inspiration from their Irish and English roots, their unique
sound stems from the intuitive exchange between flutes, frets
and skins.
The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX
01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
18Mar-25Apr Nature Exhibition – Spring 2021
A celebration of the natural world featuring craftwork, picture,
handmade original print, jewellery and sculpture from a diverse
collection of artists.
Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ
01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk
5Jan-3May
The Human Touch: Making Art,
Leaving Traces
Drawing on works of art spanning four thousand years and from
across the globe, this exhibition explores the fundamental role
of touch in human experience and offers new ways of looking.
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge,
CB2 1RB
01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.ukk
SPECIAL EVENTS
26Mar-4Apr
Cambridge Festival Online
The University’s new festival featuring prominent figures in
science, current affairs and the arts. Free, online events tackle
humanity’s pressing issues: pandemics, climate change, global
economics, human rights and the future of democracy.
www.festival.cam.ac.uk
23-30Apr Cambridge Literary Festival Online
This year’s Spring Festival brings the best authors, speakers and
writers from across the world. With a successful Winter Festival
Online under their belts, you can be assured of top events come
what may!
www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com
7-10May Ely Eel Festival Weekend
The annual festival with local traders, acts, demonstrations,
celebrity chefs and community organisations. Highlights
include the Eel Food Safari, Eel Day Parade and World Eel
Throwing Competition.
Ely City Centre
www.elyeelfestival.co.uk
16-May Mammal Tracks and Signs
Wildlife Trust BCN online event, with optional outdoor visit to
Hayley Wood, highlighting the mammal tracks and signs you
might come across in the countryside.
Hatfield Park, Great North Rd, Hatfield, AL9 5HX
www.wildlifebcn.org
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
21-22May The Festival of Antiques Market
A must-visit event for all antique and vintage enthusiasts. Set
within four buildings and acres of outdoor pitches with furniture,
jewellery, ceramics, silver, architectural salvage, fine art and
more.
The East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE
www.festivalofantiques.co.uk
129

35
Things to do
in Norfolk
this Spring
Blow away the
cobwebs with a
walk at a Nature
Reserve.
Enjoy an ice
cream at
Wells-next-the-
Sea.
Walk Peddars Way
and soak up the
beauty of the spring
season.
Follow your nose
and find wild garlic
in the woodlands
at Lower Wood,
Ashwellthorpe.
From March to May, discover the
beauty of Norfolk during the spring
Norfolk is one of those great places that can be enjoyed all year
round. To wake you from your sleepy winter coma, we’ve listed
35 things to be enjoyed in Norfolk during spring – most can be
experienced at a leisurely pace and social distanced too!
Hire a beach hut
on stilts at Wells.
Discover the ancient
grounds of NWT
Honeypot Woods.
It dates back to the
ice age!
Spot the
butterflies and
dragonflies that
flutter on the
Broads Nature
Reserve.
Dine on tasty crab
in Cromer. Rocky
Bottoms and Hot
Rocks are firm
favourites amongst
locals.
Enjoy Easter
lunch at a cosy
country pub.
Stay overnight
in Cley
Windmill.
130

It’s Lapwing show
time over coastal
marshes during
March and April.
Get up early for
your best chance of
seeing them.
Help bottle feed
the lambs at
Snettisham Park.
Take a long walk
along Brancaster
beach.
See a carpet of
bluebells at NWT
Foxley Woods
from late April.
Tuck into
Brancaster
oysters.
Try pond dipping at
RSPB Strumpshaw
Fen; spring is
the best time for
tadpoles.
Book a food tour
of Norwich.
View the spring
flowers at
Blickling Hall.
There are more
than 100,000
daffodils.
Canoe along
the Little Ouse
from Thetford to
Brandon.
At sunset, hear the
unusual birdsong
of the nightjars
at NWT Roydon
Common.
Find fossils
along West
Runton beach.
Sail the marshes
and sea with a
pitstop for lunch
with the Coastal
Exploration
Company.
Ride the Poppy
Line from
Sheringham to
Holt.
Paddleboard
on the Norfolk
Broads.
Spot the hares
on the coastal
marshes and
heathlands.
Explore the
Victorian walled
garden at
Holkham Hall.
Hop on your bicycle
and pedal your way
along Marriott’s
Way Cycle Route;
26-miles of traffic
free cycling.
Brave the cold and
try wild swimming
in the River Bure.
Lammas near
Buxton is a quiet,
clear and deep
stretch of water.
Visit a stately
home such as
Sandringham
House and stroll
around the
gardens full of
spring blooms.
Try trail running
through
Sheringham or
Blickling Park.
Eat fish and chips
on the beach at
Hunstanton while
watching the
sunset.
Keep children
entertained
with crabbing at
Blakeney Quay.
Explore the
restaurants,
cafes and delis at
Burnham Market.
Discover hidden
treasure in North
Norfolk’s antique
stores and barns.
Pick up fresh,
seasonal local
produce at a
farm shop.
131

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10 Reasons to visit Kin
Norfolk
Written by Liz Mattock | www.wolfauthor.com
A pivotal town in Norfolk’s maritime past, with its historic waterfront, cobbled lanes
flanked by medieval merchants’ houses and two magnificent marketplaces, the town is
a treat to discover and explore. Read our guide to 10 things to do in King’s Lynn:
1Green Quay
Situated in the beautiful
Marriott’s Warehouse and
home to the local discovery centre,
here you can learn about the wildlife
native to The Wash before setting out
to spot some yourself, nestling along
the banks. Have a pen and paper handy
and you can tick off the species you
spot along the way. A great idea if you
have children with you – take them on a
wildlife trail.
2Custom House
The location of the
Maritime Museum.
Exhibitions here are constantly
changing so make sure you check out
the website before you visit. Previous
exhibitions have included local artists
and historical events.
3True’s Yard
Fisherfolk
Museum
This will take you back in time to the
early 19th century where you can
follow the story of the fisherfolk and
their way of life. The story is brought
to life in two original 19th century
converted cottages. This very close-knit
community was made up of mariners,
sailors and boat builders, with some
men travelling over 100 miles away to
bring in their catch while the women
looked after the home and children.
www.truesyard.co.uk
4Vancouver
Quarter
The shopping hub of King’s
Lynn. High street stores, coffee shops
and independent retailers fill the centre
with plenty of variety for everyone,
providing a place where you can do all
your shopping in one trip.
5Stories of Lynn
Head to the Saturday
Market Place and you’ll
find the Stories of Lynn and the old
Gaol House where you can experience
what jail was like dating back to
the 12th century. Take a tour by
downloading the app and listen to the
tales of the gaol and find out the types
of crimes that got you put behind bars.
Keep your eyes peeled for ghoulish
spirits that are rumoured to still haunt
the cells. A fantastic experience for all
the family.
www.storiesoflynn.co.uk
6The Walks
Wander along the town’s
impressive 17-hectare
park enveloping a traditional 15th
century chapel, ‘The Red Mount
Chapel’. It boasts some fantastic
photo opportunities for those who
are interested in architecture as well
as a children’s play area and coffee
shop. There are walking routes to
follow around the park as well as cycle
and running routes if you are feeling
particularly energetic.
7Greyfriars Tower
It now stands in ruins
but it was once a 15th
century Franciscan friary and is only
one of three remaining in the country:
this being the most complete. It was
once used by sea mariners to navigate
the choppy waters of The Wash. The
tower and the surrounding gardens
were landscaped in 1911 to mark the
coronation of King George V and are
open to the public all year round.
8King’s Lynn
Minster
Towering over the market
town in pride of place, this magnificent
building dates from the 12th century
and has gone through restoration in
the 15th, 18th and 19th century. Must
see parts of the minster include the rare
wooden roof and its mid-18th century
organ which stands proudly at the back
of the minster.
134

Norfolk
g’s Lynn
9Castle Rising
Step back into the 11th
century and visit the
medieval Castle Rising Fortress,
originally built as a fortress and a palatial
hunting lodge surrounded by acres of
park with roaming deer. Even though
only ruins remain, the site is open all
year round for visitors to get a sense
of the vastness of the building and its
surroundings.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/
places/castle-rising-castle
10
Sandringham
Estate
The stately home sits on
the very outer edge of the King’s Lynn
boundary. Well-known as one of the
private royal residences in England,
it is now used by the royals from late
December to February where they
celebrate Christmas and the New Year
as a family. The estate boasts 20,000
acres of land and the surrounding
parkland is open to the public all year
round. Deer spotting, wildlife and
waterfowl are in abundance here as
well as walking tours, cycle and running
routes. The site hosts a number of
seasonal events throughout the year.
www.sandringhamestate.co.uk
Disclaimer:
Only travel if current government guidelines allow you
to do so. Please check with individual attractions before
arriving or visit their website so you are familiar with the
COVID safety guidelines.
135

FOR ALL YOUR
REMOVAL & STORAGE
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136

Norfolk
Norfolk
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
13-17Apr Private Lives
Patricia Hodge and Nigel Havers star in Noël Coward’s entertaining
comedy. A divorced couple find themselves on honeymoon with
their new spouses, in adjacent rooms at the same hotel.
Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL
01603 630 000 www.norwichtheatre.org
12-15May Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain
Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry VIII? Can evil
Elizabeth entertain England? Will Parliament survive gunpowder
Guy? It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!
Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich , NR2 1RL
01603 630 000 www.norwichtheatre.org
MUSIC
27-Mar James Taylor Quartet
British four-piece jazz funk band renowned for their live
performances. Their entertaining tunes take inspiration from the
rare-groove style funk, and boogaloo funk of the 60s and 70s.
Norwich Arts Centre, St Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG
01603 660352 www.norwichartscentre.co.uk
7-9May Folk on the Pier
A bumper bundle of established artists and rising stars from the folkrock
and acoustic music scenes. Running alongside is the Fringe
Festival with performances in many of the town’s venues.
Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Promenade, Cromer, NR27 9HE
01263 512495 www.folkonthepier.co.uk
29-May Let’s Rock Norwich!
The ultimate retro festival returns with the best in 80’s music.
Featuring Boomtown Rats, Wet Wet Wet, ABC, Howard Jones,
Tony Hadley, Sister Sledge, Betty Boo, The Undertones and
more.
Earlham Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ
01493 662832 www.letsrocknorwich.com
14-30May Norfolk & Norwich Festival
Norfolk’s biggest arts event offers a culturally diverse
programme of music, dance, theatre, literature, circus and visual
arts. The Festival transforms city streets, venues, parks, forests
and beaches with inspirational events.
Multiple locations
01603 531800 www.nnfestival.org.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
2-5Apr Easter Treasure Hunt
Follow the clues which will take you all on an exciting journey
around the beautiful gardens, ending at the entrance kiosk
where you can collect your Easter prize.
Hoveton Hall Estate, Hoveton, Norwich, NR12 8RJ
01603 784297 www.hovetonhallestate.co.uk
4-5Apr Easter Country Show & Festivals of Dogs
Main ring attractions, cookery demos, Punch and Judy, magic
shows, motorbike stunt teams, petting farms and some truly
unique shopping.
Summerpit Farm London Road, Elveden Estate Elveden,
Thetford​, IP24 3TD
01728 685302 www.eastercountryshow.co.uk
16-May The Diss Organ Festival
Diss will be alive with the joyful sound of over 50 mechanical
music machines with musical boxes in the Corn Hall and hand
turned instruments in Cobbs Yard. The Park will have a display
of vintage vehicles with veteran traction engines.
Diss Town Centre
www.dissorganfestival.co.uk
30-31May Country Fair
All the fun of the fair, with East Norfolk Militia displays, clay
pigeon shooting, archery, falconry, fun dog show, vintage
games, Punch & Judy, craft and food stalls.
Hoveton Hall Estate, Hoveton, Norwich, NR12 8RJ
01603 784297 www.hovetonhallestate.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
6Feb-16May
Grayson Perry:
The Pre-Therapy Years
Grayson Perry’s groundbreaking ‘lost’ pots are reunited to focus
on the formative years of one of Britain’s most recognisable
artists. The works explore the themes of fetishism, gender, class,
his home county of Essex and the vagaries of the art world.
Sainsbury Centre, University of East Anglia, Norfolk Road,
Norwich, NR4 7TJ
01603 593199 www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk
11-May Hollie McNish
Ted Hughes Award winner Hollie McNish reading from and
chatting about her latest poetry collections. Expect strong
language. Socially distanced event with seating grouped into
‘bubbles’.
Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street Norwich, NR2 4PG
01603 660352 www.norwichartscentre.co.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
22-Mar Antiques & Collectors Fair
An eclectic mix of items with coins and militaria, silver, jewellery,
ceramics, small furniture, glass and vintage Items. Vintage café
with homemade cakes, sandwiches and all day breakfasts.
Open 8.30am-3.30pm.
Hemsby Village Hall, Waters Lane, Hemsby, Gt.Yarmouth, NR29
4LE
07919 022352
4-5Apr Norfolk Antique and Collectors Fair
Numerous stands in the exhibition hall, unique pieces in the
furniture pavilions and a vast array of vintage and retro items at
the outdoor stands. Hot & cold food available.
Norfolk Showground, New Costessey, Norwich, NR5 0TT
0333 242 7912 www.aztecevents.co.uk
137

TRANSPORT & ENGINEERING
HERITAGE IN OUR COUNTY TOWN
Over 100 major exhibits - all made or used in Ipswich!
OPEN EVERY SUNDAY and
BANK HOLIDAY 11am - 4pm
23rd MAY to 28th NOVEMBER
Plus MONDAY to FRIDAY 1pm - 4pm during
SUMMER & AUTUMN School Holidays
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS 1pm to 4pm in
JULY and SEPTEMBER
*subject to COVID restrictions – please check website before travel
See website for details and special events
We’re on Facebook &
Google Streetview!
Old Trolleybus Depot, Cobham Road, Ipswich IP3 9JD
GIFT SHOP - TEA ROOM - WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
enquiries@ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

Suffolk
Plan your Trip to
Ipswich
Discover the best of Suffolk’s
‘culture capital’
Ipswich is the jewel in Suffolk’s crown. Set inland, the town
benefits from a thriving cosmopolitan scene yet embraces its
maritime past. If you’re heading to the Suffolk Coast this spring,
it’s well worth making a detour for this growing town.
Places to visit
The waterfront
A trip to Ipswich wouldn’t be complete
without taking a walk along the
Waterfront. A vibrant area, alive with
restaurants, cafes, bars and home to
the University of Suffolk, all perched on
the water’s edge. A great place day and
night; watch world-class contemporary
dance and performances at DanceEast,
relax on a river cruise down the Orwell
River or enjoy the nightlife with drinks
and live music.
Ipswich Museum
Discover history, wildlife and more across
the two floors of this historic Victorian
building. Travel through Ancient Egypt in
Suffolk’s only Egyptology gallery, stand
eye-to-beak with an eagle in the Ogilvie
British Bird Gallery or marvel at ship
models reflecting Ipswich’s maritime past.
Plus, meet family favourites including
a giraffe, rhino and giant mammoth.
Events for all ages are held regularly at
the museum, including family activities
during the school holidays.
www.ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/
visit/ipswich-museum
Christchurch Mansion
From intriguing toys in the Victorian
nursey to paintings by renowned Suffolk
artists Gainsborough and Constable,
there is lots to see in this magnificent
Tudor mansion. Christchurch Mansion is
situated in the stunning surroundings of
Christchurch Park and also hosts major
temporary exhibitions. www.ipswich.
cimuseums.org.uk/visit/christchurchmansion
Things to do
Shopping
The town centre is home to a good mix
of high street and independent retailers.
There are two large shopping and leisure
centres, Sailmakers and Buttermarket
Centre, and a great open-air market on
Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, located
right outside the Town Hall Galleries,
which are well worth a visit.
Take a walk
Ipswich is home to two beautiful parks:
Christchurch Park and Holywells
Park. Both great outdoor spaces ideal
for picnics during warmer months,
Christchurch Park plays host to some of
Ipswich’s biggest events, while Holywells
features a play area, walled garden and
café.
Theatre
After a tough year, the arts need support
more than ever. If you’re planning to
extend your time in Ipswich, fill your
evening with comedy, music or theatre at
one of the many entertainment venues.
The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich Corn
Exchange and Ipswich Regent Theatre
host some of the UK’s biggest theatre
and musical productions and best-loved
comedians.
139

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
We are
open for
admissions
EXCEPTIONAL CARE
IN WOODBRIDGE
Grove Court is one of a select
group of care homes operated by
Elizabeth Finn Homes and offers
a home from home for discerning
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
style dining to beautiful landscaped
gardens and industry leading social
engagement, Grove Court provides
the highest level of service and
facilities.
TOP
20
AWARD 2019
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
140

Book your Perfect Suffolk Escape
“Ideally located to explore Suffolk’s heritage coast”
Self Catering Cottages and Studios
& Caravan and Motorhome Club CL
Now offering finance packages to spread the cost!
Mollett’s Farm, Main Road, Benhall,
Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1JY
+44 1728 604547
www.molletts.com bookings@molletts.com
2020 12 East Life General HP.qxp_107mm h x 148 mm w 15/12/2020 12:23 Page 1
Hidden treasure
for all to enjoy
A warm welcome and fantastic views await
you; for business, pleasure or leisure.
Our family-friendly hotel boasts a fantastic
18 hole, par 71 golf course (suitable for all abilities),
thermal suite spa, indoor swimming pool,
Congo Rapids Adventure Golf Course and
delicious locally sourced food served all day.
Why not pop in for a Paddy and Scott’s
coffee and a piece of homemade cake?
Everyone is welcome,
even your four-legged best friend.
t 01394 383555
w www.uffordpark.co.uk
Yarmouth Road|Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
141

Suffolk
48
Hours in
Woodbridge
Woodbridge in 48 hours?
Don’t think it’s possible?
It is now with our guide to
the best attractions, coffee
shops, restaurants and
accommodation; all you need
to do is book
Written by Liz Mattock | www.wolfauthor.com
With coastal vibes, cobbled streets and
independent retailers, Woodbridge
should be top of your list when visiting
Suffolk. We’ve planned a two-day
itinerary to ensure you enjoy the best of
what the town has to offer.
Day 1
10am – Arrive early
Your accommodation might not be
ready until later in the day, but you can
park up at one of seven pay and display
car parks in the town and settle yourself
into your surroundings with a coffee
and breakfast at The Tea Hut. Sitting on
the banks of the stunning River Deben
it serves hot drinks, cooked breakfasts
and lighter bites.
11am – 1pm – Deben Cruise
Take a two-hour cruise along the
River Deben; one of the most beautiful
stretches of the water in the East with an
abundance of wildlife to see. You can
sit back, relax and listen to the onboard
commentary as you take in the view. It
is ideal for photographers and wildlife
lovers. Trips leave twice daily between
May and October, on this all-weather
cruiser. You can check availability and
book ahead online at
www.debencruises.co.uk
1pm – 2pm – Pub Lunch
Pop into the Coach and Horses for a
traditional pub lunch, serving salads,
sandwiches, steaks and hot dishes of
the day. The bar stocks local ales as
well as a range of wines, spirits and soft
drinks. The pub includes vegetarian and
gluten free menus and is dog-friendly
too. Food is served all day, every day
12pm until 9pm. www.debeninns.
co.uk/coachandhorses
142

Suffolk
2pm – 4pm – Woodbridge Museum
Get to know the history behind the
town by visiting Woodbridge Museum
which takes you through its evolution
from an Anglo-Saxon town to the market
town it is today. Learn about the history
of its ship building connections and
its status as a Garrison town through
the Napoleonic wars. The museum is
open 10.30am to 4.30pm every day
throughout May to October.
www.suffolkmuseums.org/
museums/woodbridge-museum
4pm – 5pm – Check into your
accommodation
By now you’ll be ready to find your
accommodation for the night and
freshen up for an evening of dining.
Particular favourites include the stylish
loft inspired holiday home, The Old
Warehouse, situated in a prime location
tucked away off The Thoroughfare
and the chic nautical rooms at The
Crown. Low Farm Cottages is perfect for
families looking to self-cater. If you enjoy
the great outdoors, Sutton Hoo Holiday
Campsite provides camping facilities for
cars and caravans looking to pitch up
overnight.
5pm – 9pm – Pre dinner drink &
evening meal
After all that exploring you will be
ready for a refreshing drink and dinner
to relax into the evening. Visit The
Unruly Pig with its extensive collection
of wine, cider and local ales and
hearty menu. The Ufford Crown is a
superb recommended family pub and
restaurant, while The Ramsholt Arms
provides alfresco dining opportunities
and great views over the river.
Day 2
9am – 10am – Breakfast
Head to the likes of Honey + Harvey or
Wild Strawberry Café, firm favourites
among locals. Further afield, and great
for combining with a walk to take in the
local countryside, is The Blue Rabbit
Café. A small hut located in the field at
Shottisham Campsite, here ingredients
travel mere meters! Hens hop around
on site, there’s goats and their own
rare-breed pigs. It may be a 15-minute
drive from Woodbridge, but it’s worth a
stop for a breakfast bap or cake if you’re
in the area.
10am – 1pm – Deben Peninsula
Boots laced and bellies full, it’s time
to take a scenic walk to the Deben
Peninsula; don’t forget your camera!
With beautiful purple heathlands, this
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is
not to be missed. The area is protected
by the local conservation group and is
home to hundreds of species of wildlife
and birds native to this unspoilt area.
On your route you will also come across
the National Trust Sutton Hoo, home
to one of the greatest archaeological
discoveries of all time – an Anglo-Saxon
ship burial.
1pm – 2pm – Lunch
On your walk you will come across
the village of Orford, which is home
to colourful cottages and some of
Suffolk’s finest producers. Pump Street
Chocolate Bakery is a chocolate lover’s
dream offering daily baked bread and
pastries, hot drinks, artisan foods and
of course locally produced chocolate
in many forms. The Butley Orford
Oysterage is iconic. Grab a seat in the
rustic restaurant and enjoy a plate of
delicious seafood.
2pm – 5pm – Cycle Tour
For your final afternoon, swap two
legs for two wheels. The 15-mile cycle
ride starts at Woodbridge train station
car park and follows roads and quiet
lanes to the beautiful riverside village
of Waldringfield. The return route visits
the village of Hemley and nearby
Newbourne Springs Nature Reserve.
Bike hire is available from Suffolk Cycle
Hire which hires mountain bikes or
tourers. They can even be delivered to
you at the train station and collected
too. Prices start from £18 per adult per
day, child seats are £5 per day.
Cycle maps are available online at
www.thesuffolkcoast.co.uk/cyclingon-the-suffolk-coast
143

Minsmere
It’s naturally fun
for everyone!
Start exploring rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere
/RSPBSuffolk
/RSPBMinsmere
RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast.

Suffolk
Suffolk
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
24-25Mar Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever
Get ready for a road trip full of fun adventures. From castles to
caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice creams to muddy puddles.
With songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for
Peppa Pig fans!
Regent Theatre, 3 St. Helen’s St, Ipswich, IP4 1HE
01473 433100 www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk
28-Mar Wizard of Oz Easter Panto
Starring Bobby Davro as Scarecrow. Join Dorothy and her pet
dog Toto on a magical adventure. Watch in amazement as they
are picked up by a tornado and carried off to the magical Land
of Oz.
Regent Theatre, 3 St. Helen’s St, Ipswich, IP4 1HE
01473 433100 www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk
28-31Mar Goldilocks and the Three Bears
The much-loved fairy tale set in the circus where Goldilocks and
Silly Billy fall upon hard times. They enlist help of three talented
and musical bears to bring their circus fortunes back to life.
Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR
01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
07-Apr Jimmy Carr - Terribly Funny
Jimmy’s new show contains jokes about terrible things that might
have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re
just jokes. Having political correctness at a comedy show is like
having health and safety at a rodeo. You’ve been warned!
The Spa Pavilion, Undercliff Rd West Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 2DX
01394 284962 www.spapavilion.uk
MUSIC
23-May Songs of the Sea
Lowestoft’s very own shanty choir return with their usual
inimitable mix of sea shanties and storytelling. Singing along will
be encouraged and welcomed!
The Seagull Theatre, 19-75 Morton Rd, Pakefield, Lowestoft,
NR33 0JH
01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
28-May Anything for Love: The Meatloaf Story
Featuring Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman’s greatest hits with an
incredible stage set and ten-piece live band. You’ll be up on your
feet dancing and singing out loud!
The Marina Theatre, Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH
01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
20Apr-23May Wayne Tanswell
This well-known Suffolk sign writer and lettering artist’s words will
rise and fall and overlap each other, highlighted in contrasting
colours, all painted by Wayne’s highly skilful and practiced hand.
The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD
01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk
2May-30Sep
Moments: An Exhibition of
Modern Art
A unique collection of modern art created by some of the
world’s best-known artists including Banksy, Tracy Emin,
Damien Hirst, The Connor Brothers, Blek Le Rat, Pure Evil,
Rachel List and Kaws.
Moyse’s Hall Museum Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1DX
01284 758000 www.moyseshall.org
SPECIAL EVENTS
19-21Mar Spring Awakening
A residential bird identification course with opportunities to view
migrants on the coast, heathland birds and a range of waders
and wildfowl at close quarters.
Bawdsey Hall, Ferry Road, Woodbridge, IP12 3AS
07763 291026 www.bawdseyhall.com
3-4Apr The Framlingham Country Show
The show with something for everybody, from cookery demos,
main ring attractions, Punch and Judy, magic shows, petting
farms, great shopping and more.
Framlingham College, College Road, Framlingham, IP13 9EY
01728 685302 www.classicfestivals.co.uk/shows
19-Apr Genetic Genealogy - DNA for Beginners
Thinking of taking a DNA test? Wondering how it can help
your family tree research? Need help interpreting your
results? Then Debbie Kennett’s talk over Zoom is right for you.
The Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group
01728 830949 www.avsfhg.org.uk
15-16May Stonham Barns Steam & Vintage Show
Traction engines, steam rollers and other historic exhibits with
demonstrations in the show ring. An old-time funfair, stalls and a
vintage market plus buskers, traditional dancing and walkabout
artists.
Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Suffolk, IP14 6AT
01449 711111 www.stonhambarns.co.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
24-25Apr Long Melford Antiques & Vintage Fair
Jewellery, ceramics, militaria, collectables, toys, postcards,
books, tribal art, kitchenalia, vintage clothes and accessories.
Homemade refreshments at the vintage café. 9.30am-4pm
The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX
07837 497617 www.melfordantiquesfair.co.uk
16-May The Grand Brocante
Held in the glorious grounds of Glemham Hall with over 100
brocanteurs offering antiques and vintage items for sale plus a
display of vintage cars, musical entertainment and food from
local producers.
Glemham Hall, Little Glemham, Woodbridge, IP13 0BT
07920 855041 www.glemhamhall.co.uk
145

ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation
Varsity Hotel
The Varsity Hotel is situated amidst the Cambridge Colleges
with views from many of the rooms across Kings, St Johns
and Trinity. It is also a stones throw from the main punting
area and has many great shops nearby.
Cambridge
T: 01223 306030
E: res@thevarsityhotel.co.uk
www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk
Cambridge
Lower Farm
Lower Farm Bed and Breakfast is situated in the attractive East
Northamptonshire village of Barnwell, three miles from the
historic town of Oundle. We can provide you with a comfortable
and relaxed country retreat tucked away from busy roads in a
picturesque and traditional farm setting.
Northamptonshire
T: 01832 273220
E: lowerfarmbandb@btconnect.com
www.lower-farm.co.uk
Northamptonshire
Sibton White Horse Inn
Wonderful unspoilt 16c freehouse, same owners for 15
years, just 20 minutes from the coast. Enjoy excellent food
within the warm and cosy inside or outside on the covered
heated terrace. Five adjacent rooms provide the comforts
expected from an AA 4 star gold rated inn.
Nr Saxmundham
T: 01728 660337
E: info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk
www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk
Suffolk
146

Tye Green Lodge
Harl o w
Are you looking for care?
If you or an elderly friend or loved one needs care
and support, whether for a short break or a longer
term stay, we are here to help.
At Tye Green Lodge we offer the highest standards of
care, delivered by our friendly and professional teams.
Quality, personalised care, day and night
Warm and friendly home offering en-suite bedrooms
Staff trained to the highest standards
Full programme of activities and engagement
Great food, freshly prepared on site
Prescriptions, healthcare and GP visits all taken care of
Stringent Covid protection and prevention measures
Visit www.carehome.co.uk
Tye Green Lodge
Review Score:
9.7
Tel: 01279 770500
Email: tye@quantumcare.co.uk
Tye Green Village, Harlow,
Essex CM18 6QY
If you would like more information about Quantum Care homes or
any of our services please call 01707 393293 or 01707 393294
or email enquiries@quantumcare.co.uk
COVID-19 Prevention:
All Quantum Care homes have the strictest prevention
measures in place including the full use of Personal Protective
Equipment at all times, regular testing for staff and residents
and the highest standards of infection control
www.quantumcare.co.uk
COVID-AWARE
CONVALESCENCE CARE | SHORT BREAKS | RESIDENTIAL | SPECIALIST DEMENTIA CARE