East Life Winter 2022

www.eastlife.co.uk 

Group Getaways 

Top tips for a stress-free, 

group break 

A Local 

Christmas Dinner 

Local food producers 

and a round-up of farm 

shops in the region 

Education 

Supporting your child with a 

learning difficulty 

Dog Friendly 

inter 

Where to enjoy dog 

friendly festive food

LUXURY CARE HOME 

IN LEIGH-ON-SEA 

HOME-FROM-HOME 

LIVING 

WELLBEING- 

FOCUSED CARE 

COMPASSIONATE 

EXPERT TEAM 

MAKE NEW FRIENDS, 

BE PART OF A COMMUNITY AND LIVE 

MEANINGFULLY AT CHALKWELL GRANGE. 

TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST, 

CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAM: 

01702 482252 

OPEN 

NOW

LIVE MEANINGFULLY AT CHALKWELL GRANGE 

The Home 

NESTLED COMFORTABLY WITHIN THE QUAINT 

COASTAL TOWN OF LEIGH-ON-SEA, 

CHALKWELL GRANGE IS THE LATEST LUXURY 

CARE HOME IN THE SANDERS SENIOR LIVING 

COLLECTION TO OFFER QUALITY 

RESIDENTIAL AND DEMENTIA CARE TO ITS 

RESIDENTS. 

THE CHALKWELL GRANGE EXPERIENCE 

MEANS WE WILL ALWAYS HELP YOU FEEL 

PART OF OUR COMMUNITY, A COMMUNITY 

WHERE FRIENDSHIPS FLOURISH AND THRIVE. 

CHALKWELL GRANGE IS SET OVER TWO 

FLOORS, AND FEATURES A PLUSH CINEMA 

ROOM, SERENE SPA SUITE, HAIRDRESSING 

SALON, FULLY-EQUIPPED COCKTAIL BAR, 

BISTRO LOUNGES AND COSY FAMILY ROOMS. 

The Town 

VOTED AS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE 

IN ENGLAND, THE QUAINT AND CHARMING 

COASTAL TOWN OF LEIGH-ON-SEA IS RICH IN 

BOTH CHARACTER AND HISTORY. 

RESIDENTS OF CHALKWELL GRANGE CARE 

HOME WILL HAVE FRUITFUL OPPORTUNITY TO 

EXPLORE THE TOWNS’ CHARMING CAFÉS, 

COBBLED STREETS AND BOUTIQUE SHOPS. 

TREAT YOURSELF TO A DAY ON THE 

BROADWAY, WHICH IS HOME TO A PARADE 

OF LOCAL SHOPS AND QUIRKY CAFÉS. 

FOR LOVERS OF NATURE, THE BELFAIRS 

WOODLAND NATURE DISCOVERY PARK IS A 

TRANQUIL LANDSCAPE OF BEAUTIFUL 

WOODLAND AND LEIGH BELL WHARF BEACH 

IS A PICTURESQUE SPOT TO WATCH THE TIDE 

COME IN. 

The People 

EVERYTHING WE DO WILL MAKE YOU FEEL 

RIGHT AT HOME AT CHALKWELL GRANGE. 

WITH AN EXPERIENCED TEAM, CHALKWELL 

GRANGE SETS A NEW STANDARD OF 

COMFORT AND CONNECTION WITHIN A CARE 

SETTING. 

AT CHALKWELL GRANGE, THE CARE WE 

PROVIDE, THE ACTIVITIES WE ORGANISE, AND 

THE AMENITIES WE HAVE ARE TAILORED TO 

MAINTAIN A FOCAL EMPHASIS ON THE 

WELLBEING, DIGNITY, RESPECT AND 

COMPASSION OF RESIDENTS. 

TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST, 

CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAM: 

01702 482252 

ENJOY A STROLL THROUGH THE ONCE 

BUSTLING FISHING PORT OF OLD LEIGH, STOP 

FOR A DRINK, ADMIRE THE VIEWS OF THE 

WATERFRONT, AND TRY THE FAMOUS 

COCKLES!

MAKE YOUR BATHROOM SAFE 

AND COMFORTABLE WITH BMAS 

If your bathroom is no longer suitable for your needs, BMAS Hitchin can help. We are a 

local business that design and install mobility bathrooms for independent and worry-free 

bathing and showering in your own home. 

ARRANGE YOUR 

FREE NO-OBLIGATION 

DESIGN APPOINTMENT 

BEFORE 

Choose BMAS: 

26 years’ expertise 

Full design and installation 

High-quality products for 

safety & comfort 

Free bathroom design 

& full quotation 

Traditional customer 

service (no call centres) 

Finance options available 

AFTER 

“FROM START TO FINISH WE HAVE BEEN VERY 

IMPRESSED WITH THE ATTENTION TO DETAIL IN THE 

DESIGN AND ALSO ON THE INSTALLATION.” 

Cath Swanney 

“WORK WAS COMPLETED ON TIME AND 

THE TEAM WERE VERY PROFESSIONAL AND 

COURTEOUS.” 

Jan Guild 

67 Hermitage Road, Hitchin SG5 1DB 

Open 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday 

Call for your free bathroom 

design appointment 

01462 889 097 

bathingmobility.co.uk

Welcome 

Looking for a unique 

Christmas gift? 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! 

A time to eat, drink and be merry, to don your best outfit and 

head out to some of the many fantastic places in our region. 

Restaurants, theatres, adventure parks, churches and market 

squares across the east will transform into magical winter 

wonderlands. There’s no such thing as too much sparkle… 

not now. 

Elvis 

Sponsor a 

rescued horse 

or donkey from 

Redwings from 

just £2 a month 

To help you celebrate the season in style, we’ve filled our 

pages with places to enjoy festive food, pantomime, Santa’s 

grottos, light trails, Christmas markets, new year parties, and 

much much more. 

Of course, Christmas is also a time to treat your loved ones 

and we can help with that too! Our gift guide features so many 

gorgeous items, you’re bound to find the perfect presents. 

Seasonal inspiration continues on our county pages, 

highlighting places to visit and things to do in your area this 

winter. How about a visit to one of Bedfordshire’s marvellous 

museums or a day out at one of the wheelchair-friendly 

attractions in Suffolk? For a foodie treat, book a table at The 

Silver Cup in Hertfordshire or enjoy brunch with a twist in 

Cambridgeshire. 

We hope you have a merry Christmas and a very happy 

new year! 

Jacqui and the Eastlife Team 

www.redwings.org.uk/adopt 

01508 505246 

Upgrade your gift! 

We have a 

gorgeous selection 

of Adoption Star 

merchandise 

available in our 

online gift store 

shop.redwings.org.uk 

Book your Perfect Suffolk Escape 

“Ideally located to explore Suffolk’s heritage coast” 

Self Catering Cottages and Studios 

& Caravan and Motorhome Club CL 

Magazine Production 

PUBLISHER Christa Hallam | christa@eastlife.co.uk 

07827 015170 

EDITOR Jacqui Hagen | jacqui@eastlife.co.uk 

DESIGN Doug Dawson | doug@dougdawson.co.uk 

SALES ENQUIRIES 

Jim Leishman | jim@eastlife.co.uk | 07872 469669 

Michelle Priestley | michelle@eastlife.co.uk | 07436 626550 

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. 

Mollett’s Farm, Main Road, Benhall, 

Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1JY 

+44 1728 604547 

www.molletts.com bookings@molletts.com 

5

49 

Arts 

The Region’s News and Exhibitions 

10 27 

Group Getaways 

Top Tips and Delightful Destinations 

Little East 

Family Pantomimes and 

Christmas Events 

36 

Education 

Learning Support and Regional News 

53 

Weddings 

Fairs & Shows throughout East Anglia 

16 

From Farm to 

Festive Fork 

A Local Christmas Dinner 

42 

Dog Friendly 

Where to Enjoy Festive Food with 

your Dog 

22 

Christmas Gift Guide 

Inspiration for the Big Day 

56 

Green Fingers 

The Alan Titchmarsh Column 

46 

Along for the Ride 

Bedfordshire’s Highways and Byways 

7

Area Focus 

News, adventure, restaurant recommendations and travel inspiration for each county: 

63 

Bedfordshire 

73 

Cambridgeshire 

87 

Essex 

101 

Hertfordshire 

113 

Norfolk 

129 

Suffolk 

64 

Marvellous Museums 

66 

Cosy Coffee Shops and Cafés 

68 

News & Events 

74 

A Day Trip to Linton 

78 

Brunches with a Twist 

82 

News & Events 

88 

Fun Attractions and Events 

92 

Fabulous Festive Food 

96 

News & Events 

102 

10 Things to do this Winter 

106 

Review: The Silver Cup 

110 

News & Events 

116 

Winter Wildlife: Seal Pups 

120 

Foodie News around the County 

124 

News & Events 

130 

Wheelchair Friendly Days Out 

134 

Chef Interview: Lilian Hiw 

138 

News & Events

A W A R D W I N N I N G H E A L T H C L U B 

A N D D A Y S P A 

S E T I N T H E H E A R T O F T H E 

R O L L I N G S U F F O L K C O U N T R Y S I D E 

R E L A X - U N W I N D - E S C A P E 

w w w . t h e g a i n s b o r o u g h . c o . u k 

0 1 7 8 7 2 7 9 0 0 9

GROUP 

GETAWA 

Top tips and delightful 

destinations 

Whether you’re getting away for a celebration, reunion or just 

to spend some time together, we’ve compiled our top tips for 

booking a stress-free break, along with some superb options for 

group accommodation across our region. 

10

Tuffon Hall 

Steps for a Stress-Free 

7 Group Getaway 

Establish a budget 

1 

Money can sometimes be a tricky subject, but it’s a good idea to discuss 

costs early in the process and agree on a top-end price for your holiday. 

Checking that you’re all on the same page regarding cost will help to avoid any 

awkwardness later. 

Choose a location 

2 Agree on the type of break you’re looking for. Are you dreaming of 

an escape to the coast, fun in the city or a rural relaxation? Consider travel 

practicalities for everyone too and pick a location that is accessible for all. 

Wainman House 

YS 

Find a property 

3 Think about whether you want to share one big property or a cluster of 

smaller ones to give more privacy. With so much choice, it’s a good idea to list 

your priorities and then use filters in your searches to narrow your options and find 

the ideal place for everyone’s needs. 

Keep in touch 

4 Shared apps are a great way to communicate. Setting up a group message 

early on will keep everyone in the loop with all the details. Shared online 

documents like Google Docs are a great way to share packing lists and let others 

know what you’re taking while a Facebook Group is an easy place to share 

photos after your trip. 

Plan your itinerary 

5 Do your research. Check what’s on in the area before you go and find out 

what everyone would like to do. Remember to be flexible though and don’t insist 

everyone joins in. It’s worth booking activities and restaurants in advance; with a 

large group you’re unlikely to have the luxury of an impromptu dinner. 

Stock up on food 

6 Pack some essentials and let others know what you’re taking so that you 

don’t end up with eight boxes of tea bags! Then consider splitting the cost of an 

online grocery delivery to time with your arrival. Traipsing around a supermarket 

on the first day of your holiday is unlikely to be anyone’s idea of fun. 

Retreat East, Suffolk 

Create a kitty 

7 It’s a good idea to have a shared money pot for extras while you’re there. It 

can make paying for dining out, drinks and taxis much easier and avoid tedious 

calculations working out how much everyone owes. And, if there’s some left in 

the pot at the end of your break, you can have a real blow-out on the last night! 

11

There’s a 

tiptree tea 

room near you 

Serving cooked 

breakfasts, light 

lunches and 

our signature 

afternoon teas. 

www.tiptree.com 

TIPTREE DEDHAM CRESSING_TEMPLE SOUTHWOLD CHELMSFORD 

WRITTLE HEYBRIDGE_BASIN BILLERICAY OSEA SAFFRON_WALDEN 

The place to stay in Essex 

£99 BREAKS 

ARE BACK 

Book a 2 night midweek stay in a Gold Grade Luxury 

Holiday Home for only £99 including Breakfast* 

Waldegraves Family Holiday Park, 

Waldegraves Lane, 

West Mersea, 

Colchester, 

Essex 

CO5 8SE 

01206 382898 

holidays@waldegraves.co.uk 

www.waldegraves.co.uk 

Take a break on the beautiful Mersea Island at Waldegraves Family Holiday Park. 

Enjoy walks along the sparkling Blackwater Estuary, sample the famous Mersea 

Oysters and take time out to relax in a luxury holiday home. 

Arrive Mon, Tues or Weds throughout November, and December (up to 14th) 2022, 9th-11th January and 15th-28th February 

2033.The accommodation sleeps up to 6 people. Breakfast includes 4 people - additional people need to pay full menu price. 

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Where to go? 

From luxury retreats to woodland cabins, East Anglia has options to suit every budget. We’ve picked some of our favourite 

places where you can get away and have fun with your family and friends. 

Wine Tasting on a Working Farm 

in Essex 

Tuffon Hall Farmhouse is a grand property on a working 

farm and vineyard, surrounded by countryside on the 

outskirts of Sible Hedingham in Essex. Sleeping twelve 

guests, it is ideal for a special occasion or group gathering 

for those wanting to enjoy the outdoors and the idyllic 

villages, countryside and woodland that the surrounding 

area has to offer. Nearby Lavenham is a must visit; with a 

magnificent church and over 350 timber framed medieval 

houses, it’s thought to be England’s finest complete 

medieval village. During your stay you can also sample 

award-winning wines and gins in the 400-year-old 

converted barn at Tuffon Hall Vineyard. 

3-night stay for 12 adults from £1096 (£31 pp per night) 

tuffonhall.co.uk 

Georgian Elegance in Wisbech, 


One of several National Trust holiday rental properties in 

East Anglia, Wainman House is an elegant six-bedroom 

house with mosaicked floors, wood panelled walls, fourposter 

beds and period fireplaces. It has a private terraced 

garden plus access to the flower-rich garden of Peckover 

House. Set in the heart of Wisbech, it’s just a short walk to 

the market town’s shops and restaurants. Visit The Wash 

National Nature Reserve, the largest bay in England, with its 

unusual coastal scenery of saltmarshes, mudflats and open 

water. A little further on you’ll find the bustle of Hunstanton, 

sailing at Brancaster and breathtaking Holkham beach 

connected by pinewoods and sand dunes to the quaint 

quayside town of Wells-next-the-Sea. 


nationaltrust.org.uk 

A Rural Retreat in King’s Lynn, Norfolk 

The Godwick Estate is a rural retreat off the beaten track yet not far from Holkham. Set in a 100 acres of countryside Godwick 

Hall is sumptuous Georgian country house which sleeps up to 14 people. There’s a grand drawing room, games room, dining 

room, a vast kitchen with an Aga and even a heated swimming pool. The estate also boasts The Old Stables which sleeps six, 

and three Shepherd Huts which are ideal for couples. For big celebrations, there is also a barn for weddings and large parties. 

Godwick is a great base to explore north Norfolk with its wide-open beaches. There are many walks in the area as well as 

fantastic places to eat and drink nearby, including the award-winning The Brisley Bell. 

3-night stay for 14 adults from £2,982 (£71 pp per night) godwickhall.co.uk 

13

An Idyllic Escape to Hemingstone, 

Suffolk 

Set on a former dairy farm Retreat East is a perfect escape 

for groups of friends and families. Their timber-framed 16th 

century farmhouse has its own private gardens and offers 

accommodation for up to eight people with four bedrooms, 

three bathrooms, a kitchen, a warming wood burner for 

winter nights and dining room. Guests wake up to country 

views over the meadows and fields. The retreat also has a 

spa offering relaxing treatments along with the triple-height 

Great Barn restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 

with seasonal menus using ingredients from East Anglian 

artisan food producers and their own kitchen garden. 


retreateast.co.uk 

Woodland Star Gazing Holt, Norfolk 

Kelling Heath Holiday Park is set amongst 300 acres of 

woodland and open heathland in an Area of Outstanding 

Natural Beauty not far from the North Norfolk coast. They 

have a range of woodland lodges and luxury holiday 

homes nestled in amongst the trees, including their new 

Platinum 3-bed luxury lodges which sleep six. Camping 

pitches are also available so that friends and family can 

join you with their own caravans and tents. Kelling Heath is 

a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site and one of the best 

places in England to enjoy celestial events. From 24 to 28 

November, the park hosts Winterfest, a star party, where you 

can enjoy star gazing with unrivalled views of the night sky. 


kellingheath.co.uk 

Consider a house swap… 

House swaps are becoming hugely 

popular and can be a good, budgetfriendly 

option. Love Home Swap is 

an award-winning home swapping 

platform. Members can choose from 

a Classic Swap, where they swap 

houses with someone else (either at 

the same time or on different dates), 

or a Points Swap, allowing them 

to travel without having to match 

their plans with another member. 

Options within East Anglia include 

this characterful home on the river 

in Hertfordshire and this converted 

barn on the Rothschild Estate in 

Hertfordshire. lovehomeswap.com 

14

From Farm to 

Festive Fork 

A local Christmas dinner 

Written by Vicky Rogers 

When I plan for Christmas, I look 

forward to family and friends gathering 

around a table laden with Christmas 

lunch. I think of our family traditions 

with the accompanying mince pie 

or gingerbread house, and of being 

thankful for all we have while tucking 

into leftover pigs in blankets and cold 

roast potatoes. Not forgetting, making 

plans for the year ahead with a slice 

of Christmas cake and a glass of 

something warming. 

Food and drink play an integral part in 

every aspect of our festive season, and 

I know I’m not alone here. I feel that the 

origins of our food and drink are most 

important in a season when everything 

is celebrated through festive eating 

and drinking. In our house, we believe 

that every ingredient on our plates 

should tell a story and we share these 

stories while we devour. 

For most of the year, we eat in such a 

rush while doing ten jobs at once. At 

Christmas, it’s good to slow down and 

take time to appreciate the glory of our 

local area. It’s nice to note that we are 

lucky to have farms that grow fresh 

and diverse food, artisan bakeries that 

live to perfect their pastry, and masters 

of their craft who juice apples, butcher 

meats, make preserves, and dry age 

charcuterie. In supporting these food 

heroes on our doorstep, we give back 

to our local area by helping to sustain 

jobs, keep small shops open, ensure 

quality food remains available and, 

perhaps most importantly, keep our 

food producers doing happy dances 

when orders come through! 

Buying locally at Christmas not only 

supports the local economy but also 

creates a feast that is as unique to your 

area as your postcode. When you 

buy honey from a nearby beekeeper 

to glaze your locally grown parsnips, 

you enjoy something made in your 

home from the ingredients that 

surround your home. And this is 

where I come back to every aspect 

of your Christmas food telling a story; 

when you buy locally it is the story 

of your home. Our home is different 

from others in that not many people 

produce most of their Christmas 

dinner on their own farm, but perhaps 

the tale of our Christmas dinner ritual 

of thanks will compare to your own. 

Our story starts when I was growing 

up and my Grandad used to come 

for Sunday lunch every week. He was 

the keenest and most knowledgeable 

gardener I have ever met. Every week 

he would bring something from his 

garden for lunch: freshly dug potatoes, 

runner beans, spring greens, the list 

16

was endless. He would bring it in its 

muddy, unprepared form and get it 

ready for the pan when he arrived. 

Then every week, just at the moment 

you were taking your first bite, he 

would declare, “That potato was still 

growing an hour ago.” As a teenager, I 

would politely smile and nod. But now 

I get it! He was proud of his produce. 

He was proud that you couldn’t get 

fresher, and he wanted you to enjoy 

eating it as much as he enjoyed 

supplying it. 

So, guess what we do now when 

sitting down to our Christmas dinner? 

We tell the story of the ingredients that 

we are so proud of, that we know are 

fresh and unique to our area, and that 

we want customers to enjoy eating 

as much as we enjoy producing. We 

talk about having raised the cockerel 

(traditional English farmhouse 

alternative to turkey) from one day 

old. We talk about our free-range pigs 

that make never-ending piles of mud 

outside our house, but gosh they 

make tasty chipolatas, and we talk 

about all the customers who have 

shared our Christmas by ordering from 

us. We wonder just how many mouths 

we have fed that lunchtime and we 

talk about customers whose lives we 

drop into when we catch up over their 

Christmas order, and we hope they are 

enjoying their special meal with their 

loved ones. 

So, when you tuck into your local 

Christmas feast try telling the story 

of the ingredients from your home. 

And then think about the fact that the 

producer is probably thinking about 

you and is very grateful for 

your support. 

Vicky and her husband Ben own 

Radmore Farm in Northamptonshire 

where they keep free-range pigs, 

meat Boer goats, and Lleyn sheep 

which are exclusively sold through 

their farm shop in Cambridge and 

local deliveries. They also bake artisan 

bread, cakes and pies. 

radmorefarmshop.co.uk 

17

A Local 

Christmas Dinner 

East Anglia is full of fantastic food producers and suppliers. We’ve picked some of our favourites along 

with a round-up of farm shops in the region so you can create a fabulous festive spread. 

Nibbles and starters… 

Fairfields Farm Crisps 

Third-generation farmers who grow 

potatoes and hand cook their crisps 

on their family farm in the Colne Valley 

in Essex. 

fairfieldsfarmcrisps.co.uk 

Chiltern Charcuterie 

A family-run business nestled in 

the Chilterns, near Berkhamsted in 

Hertfordshire offering artisan 

cured meats. 

chiltern-charcuterie.co.uk 

Lambton & Jackson 

Smoked Salmon 

Award-winning salmon, smoked 

by hand in small batches in their 

smokehouse on the rural edge of 

Maldon in Essex. 

lambtonandjackson.com 

The main event… 

Morton’s Family Farm 

Turkey 

Award-winning free-range Norfolk 

Bronze turkeys slowly and ethically 

reared on their family farm in 

North Norfolk. 

mortonsfarm.co.uk 

Powters Chefs’ Pig 

Sausagemeat 

Newmarket-based, fifth-generation 

butchers and farmers producing 

quality sausagemeat from free-range, 

high-welfare local farms. 

powters.co.uk 

Tiptree Wild Cranberry 

Sauce 

Established in 1885, Tiptree Preserves 

are still made in small batches using 

traditional, copper-bottomed pans in 

Tiptree, Essex. 

tiptree.com 

18

Something sweet… 

LillyPuds Luxury 

Christmas Pudding 

A naturally sweet Christmas pudding 

with over 50% fruit made in Bury St 

Edmunds. Gluten-free and vegan 

puddings are also available. 

lillypuds.co.uk 

Giovanni’s Downtown 

Gelato 

A family-run business making 

traditional Italian gelato, sorbetti and 

frozen yogurt fresh to order 

in Bedfordshire. 

giovannisgelato.co.uk 

Two Magpies Bakery 

Yule Log 

Handmade by skilled chefs from 

quality ingredients. Order online and 

collect from one of their bakery cafés 

in Norfolk and Suffolk. 

twomagpiesbakery.co.uk 

Christmas cheers… 

Giffords Hall Classic 

Cuvee 2018 

Made using the traditional 

Champagne method and grapes on a 

family-owned vineyard on an ancient 

glacial riverbed near Bury St Edmunds. 

giffordshall.co.uk 

Breckland Orchard Posh 

Pop 

Cambridgeshire family business 

supplying gently carbonated soft 

drinks with no artificial colours or 

flavours to farm shops and cafés. 

brecklandorchard.co.uk 

Mindful Mixology 

Cocktails 

Hand-crafted cocktails, with 

significantly less or zero sugar, made 

in North Norfolk using products from 

local companies. 

mindfulmixology.co.uk 

Willow Tree Gin 

Premium gin handcrafted in small 

batches using a unique combination 

of botanicals, including freshly 

picked herbs from their family farm in 

Bedfordshire. 

willowtreedistilling.co.uk 

Bruha Beer 

Beer made from the finest East 

Anglian malted barley combined with 

exciting hops to create a lager and IPA 

with complex flavours. 

bruhabrewing.co.uk 

UNLTD. 

An alcohol-free, low-calorie craft beer 

with all the flavour of full-strength beer 

brewed and bottled in Hertfordshire. 

unltd.beer 

19

Head to your local farm 

shop for all you need for 

your festive feast: 

Radmore Farm Shop 

8-10 Victoria Avenue, Cambridge CB4 1EH 

radmorefarmshop.co.uk 

Wheatacre Farm Pantry 

Wheatacre, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 0AS 

wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk 

Calcott Hall 

Ongar Road, Brentwood, Essex CM15 9HS 

calcotthall.com 

Johnsons of Old Hurst 

Church Farm, Old Hurst, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire 

PE28 3AF 

johnsonsofoldhurst.co.uk 

Cammas Hall Farm 

Needham Green, Hatfield Broad Oak, Hertfordshire 

CM22 7JT 

cammashall.co.uk 

Blackwells Farm Shop 

Herons Farm, Colne Road, Coggeshall, Colchester, 

Essex CO6 1TQ 

blackwellsfarmproduce.co.uk 

Back to the Garden Farm Shop 

Letheringsett, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7JJ 

back-to-the-garden.co.uk 

Franklins of Thorncote 

Trumpetons Farm, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 1PU 

franklinsfarm.co.uk 

Maple Farm 

Kelsale, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 2PJ 

maplefarmkelsale.co.uk 

The Gog Farm Shop 

Heath Farm, Shelford Bottom, Cambridge CB22 3AD 

thegog.com 

Visit eastlife.co.uk for more farm shops in East Anglia 

20

Christmas 

gift guide 

Cloud nine gems 

Redwings 

A national equine welfare charity responsible 

for over 2,000 rescued horses, ponies, 

donkeys and mules across the UK. 

Fiorelli earrings 

£85 

cloudninegems.net 

13 Market Hill, St. Ives PE27 5AL 

Fiorelli necklace 

£115 

Tree in the field 

£4 

Our new bespoke 

card for 2022! 

Greeting inside reads 

‘Best Wishes for 

Christmas and the 

New Year’. 

shop.redwings. 

org.uk 

Saffron Grange 

Presenting the Saffron Grange Pamper 

Package – the perfect, indulgent treat 

– everything a person could need for an 

evening of ultimate relaxation and self-care. 

£62 - £65 

Sponsor a rescued horse or donkey 

for a year 

From £2 a month 

This gift voucher 

is for 2 people and 

allows the recipient to redeem it against our 

Vineyard Tour & Tasting with a sharing board 

of choice. 

The tour consists of a relaxed, guided walk around the vineyard 

followed by a tutored tasting of our premium English sparkling 

wines. Tours take approximately 1.5 – 2 hours in total and this 

voucher will also allow the recipient to enjoy a choice of either a 

cheese or charcuterie board at the end of the tour - £60 (for two 

people). 

Bottle stopper 

Keep your Saffron Grange sparkling wine 

fresh and fizzy for a second helping with our 

super sealer. It can keep your wine fresh for 

up to 3 times longer. A great gift to go with a 

bottle of our wine. 

£6 

Sponsor a horse or donkey from Redwings 

from just £2 a month and you’ll receive a 

wonderful adoption pack including a special 

certificate, stunning photo of your new friend 

and their story. 

redwings.org.uk/adoption 

Christmas on 

the farm 1,000 

piece puzzle 

£13 

This beautiful 

puzzle makes 

for the perfect 

festive gift this 

Christmas. 

shop.redwings.org.uk 

saffrongrange.com 

Saffron Grange Vineyard Ltd, Rowley Hill Farm, 

Little Walden, Essex CB10 1UZ 

22

Pure Indulgence Salon 

The new Fresh Face Pillow is the perfect gift for someone who deserves the very best beauty sleep. 

Specially shaped to help you have better, more restful sleep by preventing you rolling over on your side. It’s been 

clinically proven to help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by a poor sleep position with instant 

result and ongoing improvement, the longer it’s used. Light and easy to use, the addition of a cooling gel helps you 

to achieve a more comfortable night, while washable silk pillowcase preserves your Christmas blow dry! Usual rrp 

£129 - Currently available for a limited time for just £97, visit freshfacepillow.com. 

pureindulgencesalon.co.uk 

104 Elm Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 1SQ, T: 01702 711800 

Email:info@pureindulgencesalon.co.uk 

Baker Brothers 

A stylish 0.46ct diamond halo necklace crafted in 

18ct white gold. 

£2,500 

Elouise 

Sparkle this festive season with these tantalizing 

Diamond Hoop Style Earrings. Crafted in 18ct 

White Gold and set with 1.16ct of Diamonds 

finished with a hinged back. 

£3,750 

Pretty You London 

Robe £65 and slippers £29 

The contemporary design of the Gucci G-Chrono, 

defined by its iconic G-shaped bezel lends a 

modern, sporty look to this 44mm Gents Watch. 

£1,420 

Aubade Sweet 

Folk lingerie set 

Bra £105; 

Brief £69; 

suspender belt 

£89 

Manufactured in a traditional square spirit style by 

Dartington Crystal, this stag head-topped decanter 

holds 65cl and its stag’s head stopper is finished 

with elaborate detailing and hand-enamelled eyes 

and nose. 

£610 

bakerbrothersdiamonds.com 

Diamond House 11-13, St. Peters Street 

Bedford MK40 2PN 

Pretty You London 

Robe £65 and slippers £29 

elouiselingerie.co.uk 

23

Winter at 

St Edmundsbury Cathedral 

For lots more this winter season, visit 

stedscathedral.org/whats_on 

DECEMBER 3 

Bury Bible Close Up: 

An Illustrated Talk 

10.30 am - 12.00 pm 

 

Join the Fitzwilliam Museum in 

Cambridge for an in-depth encounter 

with the most important artefact to 

survive from the Abbey. This is an 

online conference. Register at 

reception@stedscathedral.org 

DECEMBER 17 

G4 Christmas Show 

7.30pm 

Join Jonathan, Lewis, Mike and Duncan 

as they recall the musical experiences 

of their childhoods. Expect to hear 

timeless classics and beautiful melodies. 

Tickets via our website 

DECEMBER 10 

Christmas with the 

Cathedral Choir 

7.30 pm 

A special festive evening of muchloved 

carols, hymns and songs, 

There will be plenty of 

opportunity for you to join in with 

your favourite Christmas tunes 

too! Buy tickets via our website 

JANUARY 22 

La Nativité Du Seigneur 

5.30 pm 

La Nativité du Seigneur is Olivier 

Messiaen’s Christmas organ cycle 

and will be played by Director of 

Music, Timothy Parsons. Free to 

attend, no booking needed

WHEATACRE HALL FARM PANTRY 

Our farm shop located near Beccles stocks a huge range of 

fresh produce, much of which is sourced from local suppliers 

across Norfolk and Suffolk. Plus we have milk and dairy products 

produced right on our doorstep at Wheatacre Hall Dairy Farm. 

MAKE YOUR OWN HAMPER – CHOOSE FROM LOCALLY 

SOURCED SUPPLIERS TO FILL YOUR BESPOKE PRESENT 

GET AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND VISIT US 

FOR A COFFEE AND TO SHOP 

Wheatacre, Beccles NR34 0AS t. 01502 677208 

www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk 

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. 

01832 273220 

lowerfarmbandb@btconnect.com 

www.lower-farm.co.uk 

Get closer to nature 

at Anglesey Abbey 

© National Trust Images/Justin Minns 

Join us to celebrate our Winter 

Garden as it comes into season, 

bringing colour, scent and 

texture to the colder months. 

Snowdrops herald the first signs 

of spring and Anglesey Abbey 

has one of the finest collections 

in the country, with over 300 

varieties. Go behind the scenes 

and discover our private 

collection on our exclusive 

Specialist Collection tours. 

Gardens open daily, plan your visit at 

nationaltrust.org.uk/Anglesey-Abbey

Little East 

27

LITTLE EAST 

Panto is Back… 

Oh yes, it is! 

Pantomimes are one of our favourite Christmas traditions and this year they’re back, bigger 

and better than before. There are lots of family shows across the region so grab your tickets 

and get ready to shout ‘Boo’, ‘Hiss’, and ‘It’s behind you!’ 

Dick Whittington 

25 November – 8 January 

Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, 

Cambridgeshire PE1 1EF 

Starring Simon Aylin as Dick Whittington and David 

Griffin-Stephens as Dame Fanny Fitzbottom, Dick 

Whittington is the purrrfect pantomime adventure that 

follows our hero to seek his fame, fortune and happiness 

in London Town. With the help of the magical Fairy 

Bowbells and a trusted feline friend, can they stop the 

wicked Queen Rat from stealing all the sweets and 

taking over London? 

keytheatre-peterborough.com 

The Legend of Robin Hood 


Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, 

Suffolk IP33 1QR 

Pity the impoverished people of Nottingham – their 

scheming Sheriff is relentlessly raising taxes. Yet fear not, 

for a hero has emerged. Robin of Loxley! Not only does 

he steal from the rich and give to the poor, but he also 

looks fantastic in tights. Thankfully, Robin is not alone. Nononsense 

Maid Marion, loud-mouthed Little Joan and 

puny pauper, young Rob have joined the fight. 

theatreroyal.org 

Cinderella 

Snow White at King’s Lynn 

Corn Exchange 

1 December – 8 January 

Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Essex CM20 1LS 

Returning to the Harlow Playhouse are favourites Ben 

Parsley as Buttons and Jimmy Burton Iles as a 

fabulously flamboyant Ugly Sister alongside a 

professional cast of top musical theatre performers. 

This year’s extravaganza, Cinderella, features hilarious 

comedy, a live band, dazzling dance routines, and 

spectacular sets and costumes that will be the perfect 

fit this Christmas. 

harlowplayhouse.co.uk 

28

LITTLE EAST 

Cinderella at 

Harlow Playhouse 

Jack and the Beanstalk 

at The Alban Arena 

Cinderella at 

Harlow Playhouse 

Robin Hood at Theatre Royal, 

Bury St Edmunds 

Dick Whittington at 

Key Theatre, Peterborough 

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 

7 – 31 December 

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, Norfolk 

PE30 1JW 

Mirror, mirror on the wall Alive Corn Exchange’s panto is the 

fairest of them all! This year, King’s Lynn’s favourite Dame, Ian 

Marr, will be playing Dame Dotty and his hilarious sidekick 

Scott Cripps will play Herbie Vore the (vegetarian) Huntsman. 

Join them and the magnificent seven for a spectacular show 

full of music, fun, laughter, stunning special effects, and 

plenty of surprises along the way. 

kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 



The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, Hertfordshire 

AL1 3LD 

A fun-filled, family pantomime starring TV legend Shaun 

Williamson (Barry in Eastenders, Ricky Gervais’ Extras, 

Life’s Too Short) who will be joined by the brilliant Ian Kirby 

playing Dame Trott (CBeebie’s Swashbuckle). Jack and the 

Beanstalk promises to be their most spectacular pantomime 

yet, with lavish sets, hilarious jokes, and FE-FI-FO fun for the 

whole family! 

alban-arena.co.uk 

More pantomimes in the region: 

Beauty and the Beast 


Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, 

Colchester, Essex CO1 1PT 

mercurytheatre.co.uk 

Dick Whittington and 

his Cat 


Cambridge Arts Theatre, 6 St 

Edward’s Passage, Cambridgeshire 

CB2 3PJ 

cambridgeartstheatre.com 

Cinderella 


Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court 

Drive, Dunstable, Bedfordshire 

LU5 4GP 

grovetheatre.co.uk 

Cinderella 


The Maltings, Ship Lane, Ely, 

Cambridgeshire CB7 4BB 

themaltingsely.org.uk 



Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, 

Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1RL 

norwichtheatre.org 

Dick Whittington and 

his Cat 


The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, 

Bedford, Bedfordshire MK40 3DE 

theplacebedford.org.uk 

Beauty and the Beast 

22-31 December 

Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s 

Square, Bedfordshire MK40 1SL 

bedfordcornexchange.co.uk 

Robin Hood 


Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, 

Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH 

saffronhall.com 

29

Guided walks Delicious meals Books & Gifts 

RSPB 

Minsmere 

Discover the wonder 

of winter wetlands, 

woodlands and heathland 

RSPB Minsmere, Westleton, IP17 3BY

LITTLE EAST 

Mum’s the Word 

Seasonal 

hibernation: 

one mother’s utopian dream 

Written by Dolly Osborne 

raggydollywrites.wordpress.com 

As the days get shorter, I find myself envying the 

hibernators. There has been a lot of discourse about 

school hours over the last few years; in February this year 

the government scrapped their plans to lengthen the 

school day. Well, I have a new proposal that I’m pretty 

sure I can get my fellow Eastlife parents on board with: 

Seasonal Hibernation, Home-based and Heat-related Hours 

or SHHHH. 

It would work like this: during regular hours of daylight, 

we can stick to the school drop off time we are all used 

to of 8-9am. But, when we have longer days and balmy 

evenings, we can extend the school day. So, instead of 

spending that time wrangling with maths apps and building 

dioramas about global warming, we can luxuriate with 

mummy friends and a cool bottle of prosecco or have 

dinner with our partners without being distracted by our 

children’s sudden aversion to sausages. 

Conversely, in the winter, when the mornings and 

afternoons are dark and cold, we enter semi hibernation 

where children will only attend school when it is light 

outside. This will allow just enough time for minimal 

hibernation-period chores and more time at home 

participating in home-based learning, such as stranger 

danger (watching Home Alone), history/geography 

(watching Elf) and faith-based studies (watching Miracle 

on 34th Street). 

SHHHH will reject the modern obsession with routine 

working hours and general industrial ideals and will instead 

reconnect us to our ancestors who led seasonal-driven lives 

of high output summers and low energy winters. 

Just think of the extra time spent within the gentle caress of 

your duvet, the energy costs saved by not having to be up 

before it is light, and spending lots of time huddled under 

blankets together rather than trudging out of the house on 

a winter’s school run. Imagine rediscovering long forgotten 

life skills, such as foraging for autumn fruits together, 

pickling, baking and chutneying as a family in preparation 

for semi-hibernation. 

With SHHHH, instead of being prickly like an angry 

hedgehog when your alarm goes off in the pitch black and 

harshly cold mornings, you get to be as snuggly and happy 

as Mrs Tiggy-Winkle curled in a ball of soft duvet, by an 

open fire, on her birthday. Sound appealing? 

At the moment SHHHH is just this one mother’s dream: 

a utopia of seasonally variable activity and, mostly if I’m 

honest, winter hibernation-based inactivity. One day 

people, one day, we will make this a reality. Until that day, 

parents remember, as you pull on your snow boots, argue 

about coat wearing and trudge through the darkness of the 

winter school run, that I am with you. And one day reader, 

one day, we will have the sweet sanity of SHHHH 

Find Dolly on Twitter @Osborneosaurus 

31

LITTLE EAST 

Winter Playdates 

Christmas Special 

NORFOLK 

Jingle all the Day and Sparkle in 

the Dark 

26 November – 24 December 

Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure, Lenwade NR9 5JE 

Jingle all the Day – available on selected dates in 

November and December. Visit Father Christmas and 

his elves at the North Pole and step inside the Christmas 

Cottage. Choose your favourite toy from under the tree and 

then enjoy a delicious hot chocolate before finishing with a 

photograph beside the big man himself. 

Sparkle in the Dark 

Christmas Visits at Bressingham 


Low Road, Diss IP22 2AA 

Christmas is always a magical time at Bressingham and a 

very special experience for all the family. Under twinkling 

fairy lights, your Christmas visit to Bressingham includes 

a ride on the steam train on the Fen Railway for everyone 

young and old, a festive spin on the Gallopers and a visit 

to Father Christmas, including a present for children up to 

the age of 12 years. Add to that a wander around a very 

Christmassy Walmington-on-sea in the Exhibition Hall 

to see the Dad’s Army display and vehicles decorated 

especially for the season, and you’ll find that there’s 

something for all ages to enjoy at Bressingham 

this Christmas. 

bressingham.co.uk 

SUFFOLK 

Where’s Santa? 

Available on selected evening dates in November and 

December when the rest of the park has closed. Purchase 

separate to a park ticket. Start your journey at the festive 

forest. Head towards the North Pole to meet Mother 

Christmas at her Gingerbread Kitchen, then travel through 

the magical lights towards Christmas Cottage. Inside, 

the elves will be busy working but don’t forget to collect 

your sweet treat. You’ll then pay Father Christmas a visit to 

collect your golden ticket, which can be swapped for a toy 

of your choice within the toy shop. Finish with a delicious 

hot chocolate for the whole family. At 

the end of the evening, enjoy a 

short Christmas movie in Dippy’s 

Theatre and some delicious food 

and drink from street vendors. 

roarrdinosauradventure.co.uk 


Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St. Edmunds IP33 1QR 

Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is partnering with Arc 

Shopping Centre this year to create a magical Christmas 

Cabin in the centre of Charter Square in which they will be 

telling a traditional Christmas tale. Where’s Santa? is perfect 

for children aged 2 to 7. Each performance accommodates 

12 children and allows them to meet Santa – but only 

if they can find him! Where’s Santa? is bought to life by 

two professional actors, Terry Molloy as Santa, and Hatty 

Ashton as Älva. Admission is by pre-booked tickets only. 

theatreroyal.org 

32

LITTLE EAST 

HERTFORDSHIRE 

Santa at Paradise Wildlife Park 

A wondrous journey awaits you but, before you can 

embark on your enchanted adventure, you’ll need to be 

granted special access to the North Pole. Don’t worry, the 

expert Elves in Passport Control will make sure all your 

papers are in order and send you on your way. First stop 

is the Elf Academy. Here you have a once in a lifetime 

chance be inducted as an honorary Elf. Then continue 

your spellbinding journey as we step into the Snow Show 

filled with a flurry of surprises. You’ll also get to meet Father 

Christmas and make sure he got your letter and is ready 

for the big day. You can enjoy the festive rides, meet the 

animals, indulge in treats from the special yuletide menu and 

have a go at ice skating. marshfarm.co.uk 

Every weekend from 3 December and every day from 17-24 

December 

White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA 

Santa will be at Paradise in a beautiful grotto based at the 

Safari Stage, where your little ones can join him safely for a 

fabulous photo opportunity. This is a free of charge event 

so make sure to get a space in the queue early, as meeting 

Santa on the day of your visit cannot be guaranteed. Santa 

has also brought the winter wonderland with him. There will 

be a glorious festive fairy light tunnel to walk through and 

enjoy with your loved ones, and the park will be decked out 

with beautiful Christmas decorations, complete with a huge 

Christmas tree. Don’t forget to visit Santa’s reindeer in the 

Woodland Walk too. pwpark.com 

The Santasaurus Show at 

Standalone Farm 


Standalone Farm, Wilbury Road, Letchworth Garden City 

SG6 4JN 

Santa’s grotto is looking a little different this year as the 

dinosaurs stomp into Standalone this Christmas. Join 

Peepo the Parasaurolophus on a frosty, festive adventure 

and help us find the Santasaurus! Enter the jolly Jurassic 

and go on a Christmas exploration, meeting lots of fun 

and friendly dinos along the way. Has anyone seen the 

Santasaurus!? Where is he hiding? Brave little Peepo is 

determined to find out. Visitors will be welcomed into the 

rustic barn for a festive show featuring the Dino Babies, 

after which little ones will have the opportunity to enter 

the special barn grotto where they can choose a gift. 

standalonefarm.com 

ESSEX 

Father Christmas 

Experience at Marsh Farm 


Marsh Farm, Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers 

CM3 5WP 

BEDFORDSHIRE 

The Magic of Christmas at 

Mead Open Farm 


Stanbridge Road, Billington LU7 9JH 

This December, take an enchanting journey. Explore the 

Magical Christmas Walkthrough on your way to meet Father 

Christmas, choose a toy from his toy shop and build your 

own bear in the Make a Bear Workshop. Join in with the Tree 

Trimming Training show, make reindeer food and have a go 

at gingerbread decorating with Mother Christmas and Merry 

Berry. meadopenfarm.co.uk 

CAMBRIDGESHIRE 

The 

Nutcracker 


Cambridge 

Junction, Clifton 

Way CB1 7GX 

The Nutcracker 

takes you on a 

wild and festive 

adventure. 

Bursting with 

joy, dance and 

music that will 

blow your socks 

off! This exciting, 

all-inclusive show 

takes inspiration 

from the original 

story from 1816 and cranks it up to 2022. Experience a high 

energy celebration with giant sweets, dancing nutcrackers 

and singing mice. This fun-filled Christmas extravaganza 

will leave you feeling full of holiday cheer. Moxie Brawl’s 

company of disabled and non-disabled performers are 

ready to razzle-dazzle you with their brand new, rocking 

family show. 

www.junction.co.uk 

33

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Supporting your child 

with a learning difficulty 

Teachers are often the first to notice that a child has a 

learning disability. However, some children can “mask” their 

symptoms in order to fit in at school and the signs can be 

more obvious when they are at home. 

Recent research conducted by Oxford Home Schooling 

revealed that while overseeing their children’s learning 

during lockdown, many parents spotted potential signs of 

learning difficulties including dyslexia (difficulty reading, 

writing and spelling) and dysgraphia (impaired handwriting 

or spelling). 

To help parents who think their child may have a learning 

difficulty, Greg Smith, Head of Operations at Oxford Home 

Schooling, has put together a guide on how best to support 

your child and what your next steps should be. 

1. Get your child diagnosed 

If your child’s difficulties are having a significant impact 

on their learning, it’s a good idea to have them tested for a 

condition and diagnosed. A diagnosis can open the door for 

your child to receive appropriate learning support in school. 

This includes allowing them extra time in exams and being 

supported by a teaching assistant, so it’s a good idea to look 

into this as early as possible. If you’ve observed signs that 

your child may have a learning difficulty, you should speak 

to your GP, who can either make the diagnosis themselves 

or refer the child for the appropriate tests. 

2. Speak to your GP 

Once a child is diagnosed with a learning difficulty, you 

should consult your GP again. They will then be able to 

recommend and refer you to an appropriate specialist for 

support. Specialists can include speech and language 

therapists, educational and clinical psychologists and 

paediatricians. 

3. Make the school aware 

Once you have an idea of the areas where your child is 

struggling, you will need to make their school and teachers 

aware of the situation. This will allow the school to put extra 

support in place should your child require it. They will need 

time to consider how the condition might affect the child’s 

learning and work out how best to adapt their teaching. 

4. Talk to others 

Many parents find it difficult to process the diagnosis of a 

learning difficulty and it can be a challenge to adapt to 

your child’s new needs. Don’t be afraid to seek out the 

support of other parents who have experienced similar 

situations. There are many support groups and forums out 

there for advice, and you and your child can even build 

new friendships. 

5. Support your child 

The important thing to remember is that you need to 

support your child, whether this is with their learning or 

any other aspects of life that they struggle with. Being 

diagnosed with a learning difficulty is by no means the end 

of the world and children with such conditions go on to 

enjoy rich and fulfilling lives. You will need to be patient and 

it may be challenging at times but with the correct support 

system in place, your child will be fine. 

For more information about learning disabilities visit 

nhs.uk/conditions/learning-disabilities 

For information Oxford Home Schooling visit 

oxfordhomeschooling.co.uk 

36

NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION 

Cambridge Robot Tournament Returns 

Schools Golf Association Boys’ International Schools’ 

Match. After a hard-fought contest, England emerged as 

winners defeating Wales by a score of 16 1 /2 to 4 1 /2. 

Elsewhere, Year 13 student Asha represented Great Britain 

playing Handball (under 17s) in the Parades Cup in Porto, 

Portugal. This was the first time that the Under 17 cohort 

had travelled internationally for a match, during which they 

competed against Portuguese club sides, 20-year-olds 

and younger. 

The First Lego League Challenge, delivered by The 

Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), 

is celebrating its return by sponsoring 17 teams of 

students, aged 9 – 16, from disadvantaged areas across 

Cambridgeshire, to take part in the popular Lego robotics 

competition. 

Sponsored by Qualcomm Incorporated, The First Lego 

League Challenge is a unique global science and 

technology tournament. From October to January, teams 

have the chance to apply their STEM skills and critical 

thinking to build and program a Lego robot, before 

competing in an exciting, mission-based robotics game. 

Rounding off the list of international sporting superstars, 

Year 13 student Kate celebrated her final match 

representing England in the England Colleges National 

Women’s Hockey team throughout 2021-22. 

At Impington International College, students can combine 

their academic studies with specialist sports coaching. The 

College works with leading national and regional teams 

including Cambridge Handball Club, Norwich City Football 

Club, Rob Roy Rowing Club and Serena Guthrie and 

Legacy, to provide students with professional coaching. 

Army Cadets’ Leadership Potential 

Recognised 

For the first time since the pandemic, students will be 

coming together in person for the culmination of the 

challenge at a thrilling tournament day at University of 

Cambridge’s Department of Engineering, on Tuesday 17 

January 2023. The tournament sees around 250 young 

people let their Lego robots loose on a challenge board to 

complete tasks in fast-paced robot game matches. 

education.theiet.org 

Impington Celebrates International 

Sporting Success 

Two Brentwood School CCF Army cadets have been 

awarded the prestigious Army Officer Scholarship 

securing them a sought-after place at the Royal Military 

Academy, Sandhurst. 

In their citation, Lewis Harknett and Scott Adeyinka were 

‘recognised as possessing exceptional leadership potential’ 

and have secured a place to train as Army Officers with the 

Army giving them financial and career support through 

school and university. 

Students and staff at Impington International College, 

based on the outskirts of Cambridge, have been 

commending a summer of sporting successes achieved by 

the College’s students around the world. 

Year 13 student, Jake, was crowned as an international 

champion when representing England in the English 

Sandhurst is the world-renowned Berkshire-based Royal 

Military Academy where all officers in the British Army are 

trained. The academy’s motto is ‘Serve to Lead’ and Lewis 

and Scott are already doing just that within Brentwood 

School’s Combined Cadet Force. 

The scholarship, which is fiercely competitive, is an 

award of £3,000 in the recipient’s final school year, plus a 

confirmed Army bursary, worth up to £6,000, if they choose 

to study a recognised degree at a UK university. 

37

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Where 

to enjoy 

dog-friendly 

festive 

food 

this winter 

written by Abby Knight 

Whether you’re out for a walk with your dog and 

looking for somewhere to enjoy a cosy snack or 

want to take your family pet for some festive food 

as a treat, here’s our pick of the region’s best dogfriendly 

places to visit. 

DINE LIKE ROYALTY AT THE CROWN 

AT WOODBRIDGE 

Take the stress out of Christmas Day dining by hosting 

your festive lunch at The Crown at Woodbridge, Suffolk’s 

stunning riverside market town. The friendly team, led 

by manager Rob with Masterchef finalist Sci Daniels in 

the kitchen, is on hand to welcome you and your pet at 

specially reserved tables on the big day. 

The feast begins with a mimosa cocktail or mocktail and 

starters of venison terrine or vegan quince tartlet. After a 

refreshing Fishers gin and mint sorbet, the mains include 

local bronze turkey wrapped in Parma ham or Winter 

Plot, a tasty veggie treat of carrot, pumpkin, artichoke and 

parsnip. Finishing with a rich layered coffee and chocolate 

cheesecake for dessert, the price for adults is £97.50. Prebooking 

is essential, with a £10 non-returnable deposit. Call 

01394 384242 or visit thecrownatwoodbridge.co.uk for 

details and to book. 

CAFÉ STOP IN CAMBRIDGE 

Perfect if you’ve got festive shopping planned, the all-day 

restaurant Gastrono-me is inspired by café cultures from 

around the world and is hugely dog friendly with a buzzy 

atmosphere, making it ideal for a winter pit stop. Festive 

menus are two or three courses from £22.95 with fun mains 

including Jingle Buns Burger and Christmas Cheeseboard 

Mac with dog treats and bowls available for guests with 

four-legged friends. We love the idea of starting your party 

with a Merry Mistletoe Mimosa too! For details and to book 

visit gastrono-me.co.uk 

DOGS WELCOME AT THE BAR 

At the Shepherd & Dog, a popular gastro pub located in 

Crays Hill in Essex, there are always plenty of four-legged 

visitors and Christmas is no exception. Owner Rebecca 

Jones Bailey is a huge fan, and dogs and their owners are 

welcome in the bar area and the attractive garden with 

covered areas. 

The Christmas set menu includes starters of leek and potato 

soup with rustic bread and duck live parfait with orange 

and port marmalade served on brioche toast. Mains include 

roast turkey or vegetable wellington and are followed with 

the chef’s cheesecake for dessert. Served every day at £35 

per head, visit theshepherd.pub for details of dog-friendly 

areas and to book. 

DOG WALKS AND FESTIVE DINING 

Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at the Ivy House 

Country Hotel with delicious, locally sourced festive 

food including yuletide treats of fillet venison Wellington 

and roast turkey, as well as decadent desserts such as 

Christmas pudding and deconstructed toffee cheesecake. 

42

Dog friendly 

Nestled on the banks of Oulton Broad, this country hotel 

has 21 acres of gardens with direct access onto the broads 

so you can enjoy a walk with your dog before tucking 

into a lunch at just £25 for two courses. Or try the Festive 

Afternoon Tea, from 28 November to 23 December, which 

includes turkey sandwiches and pigs in blankets and a 

range of mini sweet treats served with a glass of bubbles for 

£19.95 per person. Visit ivyhousecountryhotel.co.uk for 

more details and to book. 

GETTING SPICY IN NORWICH 

Fancy something a little different this festive season? At 

Revolución de Cuba you can enjoy a spicy take on festive 

favourites along with the chance to win free tacos until the 

end of November with their treasure hunt. To celebrate 

the launch of their new menu, 900 taco tokens have been 

hidden across UK towns, including Norwich, with each 

token entitling you to claim one free 

taco dish from any Revolución de Cuba. 

There’s a range of mouth-watering 

fillings to choose from including Ginger 

Beer Chicken with Pineapple Salsa, 

Pulled Beef with Tomato Salsa and a 

tasty vegan Jackfruit Chilli. 

The stunning garden area is available 

all year round with patio heaters 

and covers so that you and your 

pet can enjoy it all winter long. Visit 

revoluciondecuba.com 

SPOIL YOUR POOCH WITH 

A ROASTY TREAT 

The doggy-mad team at Muthapuppa 

has created the perfect treat for your 

pets, so they never have to miss out on a 

roast dinner. 

Not only tasty and meat-free, they are 

also free from gluten, sugar, grain, wheat 

and rawhide which makes them gentle 

on dogs’ stomachs. With three roasts 

to choose from: Wood Smoked Roast 

Vegetables, Sweet Potato and Cranberry or Broccoli, Peas 

and Carrots, they are ideal for winter walks. 

Founder, Giuseppe Bloom, created the range with 100% of 

profits going towards rescuing dogs, something that’s even 

more important during the winter months. 

Priced at £3.50 per pack or £10 for 3 packs, Eastlife 

readers can enjoy a 10% discount on all orders. Visit 

muthapuppa.com and enter ELWIN to receive the 

discount at the checkout. 

43

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Along for the Ride 

- The highways 

and byways of 

Bedfordshire 

with The Sharnbrook Cyclist 

As the seasons change and we begin 

to pull the winter gear out from the 

depths of our wardrobes, I thought 

I’d reflect on an autumn in the 

saddle. I spent most of the last few 

months riding in my home county of 

Bedfordshire, venturing from time to 

time into Herts, Bucks, Northants and 

Cambs. I had many plans to traverse 

the coastal regions of Suffolk and 

Norfolk last summer, but they fell by 

the wayside. There’s always next year! 

I live in the village of Sharnbrook 

(name derived from the Anglo-Saxon 

word ‘sharn’ which meant ‘dung’), 

in north Bedfordshire. The area is 

perfect for cycling as it’s mostly flat 

with a few short, sometimes sharp, 

climbs. I know that folks in the Dales, 

Peaks or Welsh mountains will laugh 

at what we call hills but on a usual 

ride, there is enough climbing to 

make things difficult occasionally. I’m 

pretty sure anyone who tackles Bison 

Hill at Whipsnade or Church Road in 

Bow Brickhill will be puffing at the top. 

Typically a 60km ride around here will 

involve around 400m of climbing. 

On a usual Sunday ride, a group of us 

head out for a few hours of cycling 

with a coffee stop scheduled in one of 

the larger towns nearby. By the time 

we get to Olney, Rushden, St Neots or 

Ampthill for a drink and a bite to eat 

we’ve put in a good shift. 

There is something magical about 

being up early and setting off as the 

sun rises through the mist. Travelling 

east from Sharnbrook towards Olney, 

you go through the villages of Odell, 

Harrold and past the traditional 

leather goods manufacturer Tusting 

in Lavendon. The river Great Ouse 

meanders along the valley under its 

misty cloak, providing us pretty views 

as we criss-cross it over the numerous 

stone bridges in the area. There is 

also regular discussion of river levels, 

a barometer of just how dry it’s been 

in these parts through the summer. 

When we stop on a bridge, it’s “I’ve 

never seen it this low” or “river’s up” 

after a storm. 

On a recent ride, I rounded a corner 

and surprised two red kites on the 

ground, devouring a deer carcass that 

had been hit by a car overnight. They 

46

Tried & Tested 

The Sprint t-shirt from Artilect 

Studios, based in Boulder 

Colorado, is a versatile top that 

I use as a base layer on the bike 

and for day-to-day wear. It’s an 

impressive piece of kit, made 

from ethical bluesign accredited 

merino wool fabric. It has excellent 

wicking properties so dries 

unbelievably quickly and it looks 

good too. All you really need 

to know is, it’s one of my go-to 

garments on the bike and also 

when I’m off to work. 

artilect.studio 

stretched their enormous wings and 

took flight over the nearest hedge, 

but not before I had the chance to 

appreciate their incredible power and 

beauty. Riding a bike gives me time 

to dwell on my surroundings in a way 

that driving or even running doesn’t. 

As we move into the colder months, 

there’s a new array of weird and 

wonderful cycling attire to get my 

head around. Designed to keep 

riders warm and dry when out in 

the elements, it’s been fascinating 

searching the internet for bib tights, 

base layers and skull caps. I had 

no idea cycling involved so much 

technical clothing, but I’m learning 

about the benefits. Recently, I 

purchased my first set of proper 

winter bibs (basically, leggings 

with attached braces that go over 

the shoulder to hold them up). I’ve 

ridden in them a couple of times, and 

blimey they make the cold mornings 

easier to bear. Now I’ll be looking for 

the best way to keep my toes warm 

through the winter, my main worry as 

we set off on a cold, dark morning. 

The Xiaomi Mi Portable 

Compressor is something I didn’t 

know I needed, and now I can’t 

do without it! It’s a rechargeable 

compressor which pumps my 

tyres up to 80psi in seconds. It can 

be used with Presta and Schrader 

valves; I’ve used it on the car when 

a niggling slow puncture gave me 

continued pain. I don’t ride with 

it, although it would fit in a jersey 

pocket, but at home, it’s always 

charged and ready to go. mi.com 

My Paria Clash 2022 jersey is 

simply one of my favourites. The 

deep rear pockets and a zipped 

pouch for cards and cash are ideal 

for keeping my phone, food and 

gels handy but safe. I’m trying 

to make green choices with my 

cycling gear, and this is great as 

it’s made from fully recycled fabric. 

And it’s from Paria, an innovative 

and disruptive team of cycling 

enthusiasts from Yorkshire who are 

famed for their design brilliance. 

I’ve got more of their gear on 

order. paria.cc 

47

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The Arts Column 

East of England’s biggest Art Fair returns for 2022 

Jane Cochrane 

Leslie Gerry 

Shelley Nott 

One of the biggest contemporary art fairs outside of 

London is set to return this December. 

Art Fair East annually hosts artists, galleries and art dealers 

from across the world, attracting thousands of visitors to St 

Andrew’s Hall in Norwich, Norfolk. 

As the major art fair for the East, the fair was founded in 

2015 by leading Norfolk-based artists Will Teather and Brian 

Korteling, who will both be exhibiting at the event. 

The pair are passionate about bringing contemporary art 

to the region, supporting artists and creating excitement 

around the visual arts. 

Will Teather, who has showcased his work at New York’s 

Market & Design Fair, said: “I can’t wait for this year’s event, 

I’m already working on my paintings for the exhibition. 

There is nothing quite like meeting the artist in person or 

talking to an expert, as is often possible at art fairs.” 

Brian Korteling added: “It’s really great to be able to 

transform St Andrew’s Hall into an art space once again, 

we can expect to see lots of new, vibrant and inspirational 

works of art.” 

Organisers have also confirmed that East Anglian wealth 

management firm Chadwicks are once again supporting 

Art Fair East alongside longstanding supporters Musker 

McIntyre Estate Agents & Financial Services. 

Will Teather said: “We’re delighted to have Musker McIntyre 

and Chadwicks joining us for 2022. Both are friendly and 

forward-thinking companies helping to put the region on 

the map, as we aspire to do for the visual arts. These two 

outward-looking dynamic companies, that 

serve the Eastern Region, reflect 

our ongoing vision for the 

event to be a major Art Fair 

for the East of England. Long 

may it continue.” 

With around 1,000 artworks on 

display, a range of contemporary 

art will be exhibited including 

painting, sculpture, drawing, 

photography, video art, installation 

and original limited-edition prints. 

Art Fair East provides a great 

chance for people to expand 

their existing art collection or 

start their own journey into 

collecting. It takes place in 

the spectacular setting of St 

Andrews Hall in the heart of 

Norwich city centre. 

Astra 

This year’s fair will run from 2-4 

December. For more information 

visit artfaireast.com 

49

On the Canvas 

Discover the latest art exhibitions in the region 

Denis Wirth-Miller: Landscapes and Beasts 

1 October to 22 January 2023 

Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 1JH 

A major new exhibition at Firstsite revisits the work of Denis Wirth-Miller 

(1915-2010). 

Before his death in Colchester aged 94, Wirth-Miller’s work had been 

shown in London’s leading galleries and acquired by the Queen, the Arts 

Council England and Contemporary Art Society. The self-taught painter 

was both a friend and collaborator with Francis Bacon, but following 

an explosive disagreement with Bacon, Wirth-Miller ended his career in 

painting in 1977. 

In the largest retrospective of his work to date, Firstsite will display over one 

hundred paintings by this influential artist. The exhibition is curated by the 

renowned writer and curator James Birch, who has secured key loans from 

a variety of sources, to give visitors a chance to view pieces that have never 

before been seen in public. 

Wirth-Miller’s striking series of ‘dog’ paintings will provide a highlight of the 

exhibition. Over ten examples will feature in the show, demonstrating the 

artist’s ability to capture the movement and poise of dogs. Wirth-Miller was 

also a fine landscape painter, and the exhibition shines a spotlight on his 

talent for capturing the movement of wind through crops and meadows. 

firstsite.uk 

Changing Times: A Century of Modern British Art 

15 October to 16 April 2023 

The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedfordshire MK40 3XD 

From Eric Ravilious, Edward Bawden and Paul Nash to Elisabeth Frink, 

David Hockney and Lucian Freud, some of the biggest names in British art 

come together in a vibrant, wide-ranging exhibition that explores the history 

of British art of the 20th and 21st centuries. 

© The Estate of Denis Wirth-Miller © Eric Ravilious 

The show will be spread over three galleries and will bring together 

around a hundred works from two important collections: Bedford’s own 

Cecil Higgins Collection and the Ingram Collection of Modern British and 

Contemporary Art. 

Visitors will find sculpture, paintings and works on paper by some of 

the best-known and well-loved names in British art. Themes running 

through the show include the artists’ self-portraits and the evolution of 

landscape painting. 

Changing Times is curated by James Russell, previously curator of Eric 

Ravilious and Edward Bawden at Dulwich Picture Gallery. The exhibition 

is accompanied by a major new book – Revisiting Modern British Art – in 

which experts in their field address specific aspects of British art of the 

20th-century. Complemented by a range of striking images, this publication 

succeeds in showing the strength of the British artistic tradition while 

also encouraging the reader to rethink and explore the existing narrative. 

thehigginsbedford.org.uk 

50

Empathy for People, Empathy for Things 

26 October to 14 January 2023 

Art + Design Gallery, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, 

Hatfield AL10 9AB 

This group exhibition explores an important issue of our time – empathy – 

and what that might mean for how we relate with each other and connect to 

the things around us. The exhibition includes artists who create moments to 

listen, reflect and connect with human and non-human stories. 

It is thought that the English word ‘empathy’ comes from the German word 

‘einfunlung’ meaning to feel into or ‘resonate’ with works of art, and which 

later was used to describe reverberations between human beings. The 

exhibition invites individuals to question how they resonate with other 

people and other things. 

Harold Offeh 

The show features artists Andy Holden, Paul Johnson, Harold Offeh, Katie 

Paterson, Feral Practice and Celia Pym who are crafting practices and 

artworks that explore empathy from a number of perspectives including 

textiles, film and sculpture. 

Curator Elizabeth Murton commented: “This exhibition provides an 

opportunity to reflect on our amazing and complex world and explore 

empathy and our connections with fellow humans or other things. The 

pandemic was such a different experience for many. As we now rush to get 

back to ‘normal’, this exhibition allows space for listening, reflecting and 

resonating with each other and other things that form part of our world.” 

uharts.co.uk 

Celia Pym 

Henry Moore: Drawing in the Dark 

16 December to 16 April 2023 

St Albans Museum + Gallery, Town Hall, St Peter’s Street, 

Hertfordshire AL1 3DH 

The largest exhibition of coal mining drawings by celebrated artist, Henry 

Moore, will be shown at St Albans Museum + Gallery – eighty years since 

they were completed for the War Artists’ Advisory Committee (WAAC). 

Moore is famous for his sculpture, particularly of women and abstract 

forms, and his drawings of Londoners sheltering from the blitz in 1940 are 

also well known. But it is often forgotten that Moore was the son of a miner 

from Castleford in Yorkshire, and as a war artist he developed a detailed 

series of drawings from sketches he made in 1942 at Wheldale Colliery 

where his father had worked. Moore spent one week in the mine drawing 

from observation and then worked from memory to create the remaining 

drawings which were all completed within six months. 

Curated by University of Hertfordshire Arts + Culture and played out within 

the theatre of the dark-walled, subterranean Weston Gallery of St Albans 

Museum + Gallery, the timely exhibition takes inspiration from the new book, 

Drawing in the Dark by art historian, Chris Owen. 

Together, the exhibition and book aim to reveal the importance of this very 

personal project for understanding Moore’s life and work. Whether you are 

new to Moore, a life-long fan or take an interest in coal mining and World 

War II, this exhibition offers discovery, excitement and contemplation. 

stalbansmuseums.org.uk 

51

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Weddings 

Wedding fairs 

NORFOLK 

The Dunston Hall 

Wedding Show 

8 January, 11-3pm 

Dunston Hall, Ipswich Road, Norwich 

NR14 8PQ 

Local, independent wedding 

specialists waiting to talk to you 

about your big day including flowers, 

cakes, transport and bride and 

groom attire. 

dunstonhallhotel.co.uk 

Kings Lynn 

Wedding Festival 


The Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market 

Place, Kings Lynn PE30 1JW 

The largest wedding fair in Kings 

Lynn showcasing over 40 wedding 

suppliers from across the region. 

kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 

Wedding Fair 


Hockwold Hall, Hockwold Cum 

Wilton, Brandon, Norfolk IP26 4HZ 

Over 50 vendors handpicked from all 

over East Anglia covering everything 

from entertainment and photography, 

to catering and make up. 

hockwoldhallnorfolk.com 

SUFFOLK 

The Fisher Theatre 

Wedding Fair & Open 

Day 

4 February, 10-4pm 

The Fisher Theatre, 10 Broad Street, 

Bungay NR35 1EE 

Gather information for your special 

day and view the theatre as a venue. 

Book a date with 10% deposit to 

receive £150 of wine/champagne for 

your special day. 

fishertheatre.org 

The Wedding Fayre at 

Trinity Park 

5 February, 11-3.30pm 

Trinity Park Conference and Events 

Centre, Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, 

Ipswich IP3 8UH 

A wide selection of wedding 

suppliers including East Anglian 

wedding venues. Entry £2. Bar 

and light refreshments available 

throughout the day. 

trinityparkevents.co.uk 

Spring Wedding Fair 

5 March, 11-4pm 

Bury St Edmunds Guildhall, Guildhall 

Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1PR 

Pre-register for your free goody bag 

on arrival including show guide 

and floor plan and for your free 

welcome drink. 

beausandbelleseventplanners. 

co.uk 

ESSEX 

Spring Wedding Fair 

Weekend 

18-19 February, 11-4pm 

Colchester Community Stadium, Mile 

End, Colchester C04 5UP 

Inspirational wedding fair with lots of 

ideas to create your perfect day. Preregister 

for your free goody bag and 

drink on arrival. 

beausandbelleseventplanners. 

co.uk 

Braxted Park Wedding 

Fayre 


Braxted Park Estate, Great Braxted, 

CM8 3EN 

View the magnificent venue and 

meet a variety of wedding suppliers. 

Goody bag and chance to enter a 

honeymoon competition on arrival. 

braxtedparkweddings.co.uk 

Wedding Exhibition 


Unit 7, Festival Leisure Park, Basildon 

SS14 3WB 

The largest free entry wedding 

exhibition in Essex with exclusive 

special discounts offered by wedding 

suppliers on the day. 

festivalleisure.co.uk 

HERTFORDSHIRE 

Wedding Open Day 


Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane, St 

Albans, Hertfordshire 

Explore the beautiful venue, browse 

some amazing local suppliers and tick 

some things off your planning list. 

sopwellhouse.co.uk 

BEDFORDSHIRE 

Shuttleworth House 

Wedding Show 

26 February, 11-3pm 

Shuttleworth House, Old Warden, 

Biggleswade SG18 9EA 

View the venues and accommodation 

on the estate and meet quality 

suppliers. Free entry, goody bags and 

special offers on the day. 

shuttleworth.org 

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Holiday Inn Wedding 

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The Holiday Inn, Thorpe Wood, 

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professionals. Free parking, free 

admission and free goody bag. 

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53

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GREENFINGERS… 

the Alan Titchmarsh column 

He’s a brilliant presenter, 

accomplished gardener, 

talented novelist, and 

all-round horticultural 

inspiration. This 

month, Alan Titchmarsh 

discusses the next 

generation of greenfingered 

gardeners. 

You’ll find me talking quite a bit 

about the new breed of gardener 

coming through. For me, it’s a natural 

evolution that presents two different 

things – firstly, the art of gardening 

is much more interesting and much 

cooler than it ever was in my day; and 

secondly, it seems as though I am 

becoming more and more aware of 

my own mortality! 

Of course, what goes around comes 

around, and nature was, in general, 

a big part of my childhood. We’d 

always be off on walks in the country 

every Saturday afternoon. 

My grandad had an allotment where 

I would also spend as much time as I 

could as a child – you couldn’t get me 

away from the place. 

I knew I wanted to garden from about 

the age of eight. I built a greenhouse 

aged 10 out of polythene and wood 

and I just loved it, and my grandad 

was my horticultural hero – he was 

the one who gave me my first taste of 

it. I mean, I have a picture of me with 

him in tiny baggy bloomers when 

I was about 18 months old being 

walked through the sweet peas in his 

garden, so he was definitely where 

it started for me. And once you have 

that interest at such a young age, you 

aren’t going to give it up. 

On a more celebrity level, Percy 

Thrower was the one who inspired 

me most when I was a kid. I watched 

him on Gardening Club on the box, 

I knew I wanted to garden 

from about the age of eight. 

I built a greenhouse aged 

10 out of polythene and 

wood and I just loved it, 

and my grandad was my 

horticultural hero – he was 

the one who gave me my first 

taste of it. 

56

and as the years have gone by, I have 

been lucky enough to work with a 

number of the horticultural greats. 

Christopher Lloyd was a friend, Beth 

Chatto is a friend who I really value 

and whose work I really admire. 

After a while you realise you have 

progressed from the student to the 

teacher, and I’ve always been very 

proud to be that person. Ultimately, I 

want to inspire everybody to get into 

the garden because I think there are 

so many benefits. 

When I am presenting, I never have 

a set section of society or type of 

person in mind. I guess, in a way, 

I am presenting to myself – I want 

anybody and everybody to start 

thinking about getting into the 

garden. We need to show people 

that it isn’t difficult or boring, that is it 

is exciting, and that most of it is just 

common sense. 

And I do admit, the likes of James 

Swift, James Wong, Annemarie 

Powell, Katie Rushworth and Frances 

Tophill all have a knack of conversing 

to young audiences that I probably 

don’t have… and that’s great. 

We have to keep evolving what we 

say and who we want to position it to, 

because, as I have said before, there 

are so many other distractions for 

young people these days. 

I want to see our gardens and our 

outside spaces continue to flourish 

over the decades to come, despite 

the noise and appeal of doing other 

things elsewhere; and you know 

what, I’m sure they will. 

57

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For People Starting on The Road to Access Care 

Support. 

Having been in the UK home care sector for over four decades, I am still surprised at how many 

people, at an early stage in their new situation in life, find it difficult to access information which is 

relevant and gives them facts. I offer the following as a beginning to the road map: 

Care in the UK can be paid for from three, main, financial directions:- 

1. Your local Council can financially assess a person for their care needs and either pay for, part pay 

for or decline to fund the care package. 

2. The NHS, under Continuing Care, can be a fully funded package of care that some people are 

entitled to receive due to disability, accident or illness. 

3. By an individual paying the total cost of care.i.e., private fee payer. (There is a tax-free benefit, the 

Attendance Allowance, which helps to pay for personal care if a person has reached State Pension 

Age and has a disability). 

The availability of care support organised and paid for via Councils depends on the number of home 

care providers with sufficient staff to provide the support needed. 

The cost of home care can vary, the recommended hourly rate from the United Kingdom Homecare 

Association is £23.20 per hour. You can shop around for lower hourly rates. 

Individuals may decide to have a Live-in Care support service rather than move into residential 

accommodation. Costs range from £1000 per week to £3000+ per week. 

The advice I offer as an experienced provider of care support: 

When looking for practical care support, and looking for a supporting care provider, speak to more 

than one. Talk to them, ask questions and meet with them before deciding which company to choose. 

Think about the actual care support you are looking for. You are seeking a bespoke service, custommade 

for you. 

Finally - Many organisations can also offer sound, up-to-date advice. For example, organisations such 

as Age UK, Age Concern, Independent Age. Many have offices you can visit, phones you can ring 

and excellent websites. 

Angela Gifford Able Community Care

GIFT VOUCHERS 

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For all that’s festive in Bedford Town 

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www.lovebedford.co.uk

Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire 

Bedfordshire’s 

Marvellous 

Museums 

From art to aircraft and watermills to world 

wars, discover Bedfordshire’s past in the 

county’s museums. 

The Shuttleworth 

Collection 

Old Warden Aerodrome, Nr 

Biggleswade, SG18 9EP 

An aeronautical and automotive 

museum, located at the Old Warden 

Aerodrome, with some of the last 

airworthy aircraft of their type 

remaining anywhere in the world. 

Vehicles include mostly Edwardian, 

early dogcarts and 1930s-1940’s 

cars along with motorcycles, 

penny farthings and a 1904 Aurora. 

Throughout the year there are 

many events with flying displays 

and vehicle parades, drawing 

crowds from all over the world. 


The Higgins Bedford 

Castle Lane, Bedford. MK40 3XD 

An art gallery and museum 

boasting a lively programme of 

exhibitions, events and displays. 

Using collections of archaeology, 

social history and ethnography, The 

Higgins shows how Bedford has 

developed. You can see wonderful 

collections including the Cecil 

Higgins Collection of fine and 

decorative arts and unique groups of 

work by the designers William Burges 

and Edward Bawden. The museum 

is also home to The Higgins Pantry, a 

family-run Italian restaurant and café. 

thehigginsbedford.org.uk 

Stockwood Discovery 

Centre 

London Road, Luton, LU1 4LX 

Originally a country estate, 

Stockwood is now a public park 

with the former stables and walled 

gardens now housing the Discovery 

Centre. With interactive exhibitions, 

a children’s play area and beautiful 

gardens, it’s a great family day out. 

The museum galleries bring the 

stories of local people to life, dating 

back from prehistoric times to the 

present day. Highlights include 

the largest horse-drawn carriage 

collection in Europe and the Wenlock 

Jug, a rare medieval masterpiece. 

culturetrust.com 

Ampthill Micro Museum 

1 Bedford Street, Ampthill, MK45 2LU 

Possibly the smallest museum in 

the world, Ampthill micro museum 

takes you through 1,000 years of 

history. From Norman times to the 

modern day, journey through a small 

town’s massive history. The walls 

show a floor-to-ceiling timeline from 

Saxon times to the present day. The 

Ampthill Roll of Honour is displayed 

on the side of the building outside. 

ampthillmicromuseum.com 

Wardown House, 

Museum & Gallery 

Old Bedford Road, Luton, LU2 7HA 

A Grade II listed building situated in 

the beautiful grounds of Wardown 

Park, this museum transports you 

back in time, to a wealthy Victorian 

family home. Every room tells a 

story with interactive displays, 

local curiosities and the largest hat 

collection in the UK. The Morning 

Room art gallery displays exhibitions 

throughout the year and the Dining 

Room café, which overlooks the park, 

serves coffee and cake. 


64

Bedfordshire 

The Twinwood Museums 

RAF Twinwood Farm Airfield, Bedford, 

MK41 6AB 

In August 1944, the world-famous big 

band leader Glenn Miller performed 

a concert at RAF Twinwood Airfield. 

Later that year, he boarded a small 

aircraft outside Twinwood Control 

Tower – destination Paris – but was 

never seen again. Now known as the 

Glenn Miller Museum, the control 

tower details the history of RAF 

Twinwood during WWII and its link 

to the legendary band leader. There 

are five other museum buildings on 

the site, including The Twinwood 

Aviation Museum with its large 

collection of wartime uniforms and 

equipment, and Under Fire which 

is Britain’s only wartime fire service 

museum. twinwoodevents.com 

Leighton Buzzard 

Railway 

Pages Park Station, Billington Rd, 

Leighton Buzzard, LU7 4TG 

The Leighton Buzzard Railway 

is one of the last survivors of the 

gauge light railways built in Britain 

for industrial use and houses one of 

the largest collections of narrowgauge 

stock in England. Today’s 

Leighton Buzzard Railway offers 

an 85-minute round trip through 

the Bedfordshire countryside. 

Open from March to October with 

Santa’s Steam Specials through 

December when you can take a 

steam-train ride over the historic 

railway and meet Santa in his 

grotto. buzzrail.uk 

John Bunyan Museum 

Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, 

Bedford, MK40 3EU 

This museum tells the story of the 

humble Bedford man who wrote 

The Pilgrim’s Progress, one of 

the greatest novels in the English 

language. During his remarkable 

life, Bunyan was a soldier, tinker, 

preacher and dissenter, spending 

12 years in Bedford prison 

for illegal preaching. Bunyan 

Meeting church stands on the 

site of Bunyan’s original church, 

where he was minister from 

1671 to 1688. Scenes from The 

Pilgrim’s Progress can be found 

on the bronze entrance doors and 

stunning stained-glass windows. 

bunyanmeeting.co.uk 

More marvellous museums to visit in 

Bedfordshire: 

Jordans Mill 

Holme Mills, Southill Road, Broom, 

SG18 9JX 

Take a guided tour of the Victorian 

Mill and explore the beautiful 

gardens, meadow and woodland 

before relaxing in the Riverside Café 

overlooking the River Ivel. 

jordansmill.com 

Panacea Museum 

9 Newnham Road, Bedford, 

MK40 3NX 

Learn about the 20th-century 

religious community and its 

method of healing through water 

– its ‘panacea’ to cure all illnesses. 

panaceamuseum.org 

Elstow Moot Hall 

Museum 

209 Church End, Elstow, MK42 9XT 

A 15th-century timber-framed market 

hall, originally built to serve Elstow 

Abbey, which now holds collections 

of 17th-century artefacts. 

bedford.gov.uk 

Ridgemont Station 

Station Road, Ridgmont, MK43 0XP 

A hidden gem on the Marston Vale 

rail line which provides a unique 

journey into our rail heritage and 

serves food and drink in the tearoom. 

ridgmontheritage.org.uk 

Military Intelligence 

Museum 

Chicksands, Shefford, SG17 5PR 

Located on a Ministry of Defence 

base at Chicksands, this museum tells 

the story of British military intelligence 

from the Boer War onwards. 

militaryintelligencemuseum.org 

Before visiting, we recommend that 

you check the museum’s website 

or contact them to confirm opening 

times and admission prices. Some 

visits are by appointment only. 

65

Bedfordshire 

Food&Drink 

Winter Warmers 

written by Lydia Pettet 

On a cold winter’s day, there is nothing better than finding a cosy spot to watch the world go by with a cup of coffee and a 

slice of cake for company. Whether it’s a sweet treat after a brisk winter walk, or a hearty brunch as you catch up with friends 

over the festive season, here’s our round-up of some of Bedfordshire’s cosiest coffee shops and cafés. 

Bridges Espresso Bar, Bedford 

With views of the River Great Ouse, and just a couple of 

minutes’ walk from the town centre, Bridges Espresso Bar is 

the perfect spot to warm up after some Christmas shopping. 

Open from breakfast to dinner, there is something delicious 

on offer all day. Check out their range of festive coffees 

and hot chocolates which will please the whole family. 

The menu makes the most of local and seasonal produce, 

with a great choice of sharing boards, small plates and 

brunch dishes. If you’re after something sweet, make sure 

to try their classy version of Bedford’s famous dessert – 

Chocolate Toothpaste! And, if you’re looking for gift ideas, 

Bridges stock a whole host of fantastic local produce that 

will make perfect stocking fillers. 

bridgesespressobar.co.uk 

The Mill Coffee Shop, Bromham 

Bromham Mill dates back to the early 19th century and is 

now home to an art gallery, as well as being the starting 

point for the Bromham Heritage Trail, an eight-mile walk that 

takes a circular route through Bromham and Stevington 

countryside. Set in a beautiful stone building, within the 

grounds, is the Mill Coffee Shop. There are plenty of cosy 

nooks and leather sofas where you can enjoy a cup of their 

specialty coffee. The menu includes deliciously overstuffed 

sourdough toasties and a range of homemade cakes and 

bakes from local bakers. Warm up after a walk with your 

four-legged friends too, as this spot is very dog friendly. 

Make sure to check out their jam-packed events list, 

including artisan fairs, pizza nights and more. 

themillcoffeeshop.co.uk 

66

Bedfordshire 

Woburn Coffee House, Woburn 

There is no finer spot to warm up on a winter’s day than 

Woburn Coffee House. Nestled on Market Place in the 

delightful village of Woburn, the 16th-century restaurant 

offers seasonal, high-quality afternoon teas. Afternoon tea 

here is elevated with no sandwiches or scones in sight. 

Carefully crafted savoury canapés and delicate sweet 

pastries are presented beautifully in the elegant dining 

rooms on traditional tiered serving dishes. There is a range 

of teas, coffees and cocktails to complement your meal. 

Woburn Abbey is a short drive away, perfect for making a 

day out of your visit. Booking is necessary and gift vouchers 

are also available which make a great Christmas gift. 

woburncoffeehouse.co.uk 

Stratton House Hotel, Biggleswade 

In the heart of the market town of Biggleswade is the 

historic Stratton House Hotel. Having recently undergone a 

refurbishment, the hotel has a modern dining room and bar 

as well as comfortable rooms upstairs. Open all day to warm 

you up with a weekend brunch, Sunday roast or one of their 

traditional desserts, the menu offers modern pub grub with 

lots of hearty dishes. Head over at Christmas time for their 

festive menu or special New Year events. Or simply pop 

in for an expertly poured coffee and escape the cold. Visit 

the nearby Shuttleworth collection of vintage aircraft for a 

rainy-day excursion. 

strattonhouse-hotel.co.uk 

Danish Camp, Willington 

Hidden away in the quaint village of Willington is one of 

Bedfordshire’s best kept secrets. The Danish Camp is a 

Norwegian log cabin on the riverbank surrounded by 

peaceful woodland. Open for breakfast and lunch, as well 

as for a range of events throughout the year, this quirky 

place is a must visit. Take a walk around the woods before 

stopping off for a big breakfast or a doorstep sandwich for 

lunch. It’s a great spot to watch the boats go by, plus in the 

warmer months you can enjoy a boat trip along the river 

from here, as well as watch paddle boarders and kayakers 

go floating lazily past. Make sure you say hello to Ozzie the 

owl and the other birds in the camp’s menagerie! 

danishcamp.co.uk 

Find Lydia on Instagram @lydeatsfood 

67

Bedfordshire 

BEDFORDSHIRE NEWS & EVENTS 

News 

Clophill Lakes Set to Open Next Year 

A new nature reserve is set to open in the heart of the Flit 

Valley between Clophill and Chicksands. 

Local environmental charity The Greensand Trust plans 

to establish Clophill Lakes nature reserve enabling 

otters, sand martins and colourful dragonflies in the 

wetlands, to skylarks and wildflowers in the grassland 

areas. The reserve is being developed for the benefit 

of wildlife and local communities, with public access 

expected in 2023. 

Clophill Lakes is the site of a former Fuller’s Earth quarry 

worked by Laporte until production ceased in 2000 and 

the site has remained effectively closed to the public 

since then. 

The Greensand Trust has launched an appeal 

to support the conservation work and its future 

sustainability and protection. Any donations made 

before the end of December 2022 will be matched by 

Greensand Trust Patron and former Chairman Peter 

Smith MBE via The Peter Smith Charitable Trust. 

To find out further information or donate to the appeal 

visit greensandtrust.org 

Made at Bedfordshire celebrates 

University Research 

Available for students, staff and campus visitors to 

view and explore, Made at Bedfordshire celebrates 

the University’s invaluable research and demonstrates 

the impact it has on communities and individuals. The 

exhibition features interactive QR codes throughout 

which viewers can scan to access podcast episodes, 

video content, interviews and additional information to 

supplement each case study further. 

Each case study featured in the exhibition illustrates the 

difference that university-based research conducted by 

the University’s nine research institutes can make in the 

region, wider UK and internationally. From social work 

to engineering, from education to health, each example 

explains the impact it has made. 

The ‘Made at Bedfordshire’ exhibition will be open in the 

Gallery Space on the ground floor of the Campus Centre, 

Luton, until June 2023. A digital version of the campaign 

booklet and further information can be found at 

beds.ac.uk 

Meet Mittens the Robot Waiter 

Mittens is the new robot waiter in The Gravel Pit 

Brasserie at the Waterfront Hotel on the Wyboston Lakes 

Resort. The hotel is the first in the UK to invest in a stateof-the-art 

robot waiter, which has been programmed to 

deliver food from the kitchen to the serving team in the 

dining area. 

The University of Bedfordshire has opened an 

interactive exhibition on its Luton campus to showcase 

the value and breadth of its research. 

Pudu Robotics is the company behind the ‘Bellabot’ 

robot, which has the face of a cat and has been 

affectionately named ‘Mittens’ by the Wyboston team. It 

can sing, talk, purr, show a range of facial expressions, 

and enjoys a pet on the head. It will even get a bit sassy if 

deliberately disrupted! 

The interactive robot is lightweight and travels steadily at 

an average walking pace taking up to four large trays of 

food at a time. It uses a combination of sensors, artificial 

intelligence, and machine learning to manoeuvre safely 

through the brasserie and around tables, chairs and 

co-workers. A display screen can be programmed with 

key messages. 

68

Bedfordshire 

Steve Jones, Managing Director of Wyboston Lakes 

Resort, said: “The response from our team members has 

been overwhelmingly positive because the robot is highly 

functional, improves efficiencies, and has made their jobs 

easier. Customers have found the robot very entertaining, 

too.” wybostonlakes.co.uk 

Treecycle in Bedfordshire 

as the inspiration behind their fresh, modern menu with a 

Mediterranean vibe. 

Sirloin steak, hot off the grill, comes with peppercorn sauce. 

Share a platter of deep-fried seafood, courgetti fries, red 

chilli slices and garlic mayonnaise or swirl your fork around 

tagliatelle loaded with slow-cooked beef ragu in a rich 

tomato sauce. 

The provenance of the ingredients and wines at La Terrazza 

is important to Daniele and co-owner Naz; fresh cheese and 

vegetables come from Italy regularly, making the dining 

experience as authentic as possible. Passion for creating a 

memorable experience shines through from the duo who 

want to make great evenings for their guests from Bedford 

and beyond. To find out more visit la-terrazza.co.uk 

Sue Ryder is encouraging local residents to keep spreading 

the festive cheer into the New Year by signing up to have 

their Christmas trees collected and recycled to raise vital 

funds for families needing their care. 

After the festivities are over, Sue Ryder volunteers will be 

collecting real Christmas trees direct from people’s front 

door or driveway so that they can be chipped into mulch 

and recycled. 

For a donation, people who live in MK40 to MK45 and SG18 

to SG19 postcodes can have their trees collected between 

Saturday 7 and Tuesday 10 January 2023. All money raised 

will help Sue Ryder to continue offering its compassionate 

palliative care and bereavement support – helping its teams 

be there when it matters. 

Visit sueryder.org/bedfordshiretrees to find out more 

about the environmentally friendly fundraising and book a 

collection by Tuesday 3 January 2023. 

Coming soon… 

George Ezra to Headline Bedford Park 

© Alex Eden-Smith 

Food & Drink 

Bedford Welcomes La Terrazza 

A new bar, 

restaurant and grill 

has opened in the 

heart of Bedford 

bringing the 

relaxed ambiance 

of a beautiful Italian 

terrazza to Ram 

Yard. This little slice 

of Italian foodie 

heaven is true to 

Chef Daniele’s 

heritage, as he cites 

his grandfather’s 

roots in Chieti, Italy 

Bedford Park Concerts returns in 2023 with some incredible 

live shows, with the first announced as multi-platinumselling 

artist George Ezra who will be headlining on Friday 

30 June. 

With three UK No.1 albums Wanted On Voyage (2014), 

Staying At Tamara’s (2018) and Gold Rush Kid (2022) under 

his belt, George Ezra has toured the world, toured it some 

more, then met himself coming back the other way. 

George’s latest album secured his position as one of the 

UK’s most successful artists of the past decade. Expect a 

spellbinding, energetic set from Brit award-winning artist 

George Ezra as he headlines at Bedford Park next summer, 

packed with a set list of smash hit singles. From his UK No.1 

single Shotgun to Budapest, Dance All Over Me, Green 

Green Grass, Hold My Girl and many more. 

Tickets for George Ezra are on sale now at 

bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk 

69

3 ROOMS | 1 BAR | THEMED COCKTAILS 

AN EXPERIENCE FOR YOU AND YOUR TEAM 

THE SAW ROOM THE LABORATORY THE MURDER SCENE 

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confused, with no memory of how 

you’ve got here. 

After discovering you’re chained 

up and trapped you hear the voice 

of the Psychopath... 

He wants to play a game, and you 

are his entertainment… 

You have been on a tour of one 

of the most mysterious research 

centres in the country, you spot 

the “restricted area” zone and take 

a look… 

Instantly regretting your decision, 

you are trapped in the Lab and only 

have 60 minutes to get out before 

you become a test subject yourself… 

A serial killer is on the loose in 

Bedford, you are a crime scene 

investigator called to a shady 

apartment to investigate a murder 

but before you know it you’re 

trapped! 

In just 60 minutes can you identify 

the murderer and escape before 

it’s too late? 

WWW.BEDFORDESCAPEROOMS.CO.UK

Bedfordshire 

Stockwood Illuminated 

Toddington Christmas Tree Festival 


St George of England Church, Toddington 

The church will be filled with decorated trees, each with 

its own theme. There will be seasonal refreshments 

in Wilkinson Hall next to the church along with stalls 

and a tombola. The festival makes a great start to the 

Christmas celebrations so come along and get in the 

festive mood. On Friday 9 December, there will be a 

preview evening with wine and canapés. This will cost 

£10 per head. Tickets must be pre-booked and for 

details contact Fran Brown on 01525 872501. 

thetouristtrail.org 

WHAT’S ON 

2-23 December 

Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, 

Luton LU1 4LX 

This winter, bring the family together for a journey 

through the myth and magic of the ancient tree spirits, 

as they shine bright and illuminate the gardens at 

Stockwood Illuminated. Experience a journey through 

the age-old trees of Stockwood Discovery Centre. 

Centuries old, these giants have grown through the 

years, seen plenty, and have many stories to tell. This 

winter the centre will illuminate and shine a light on the 

gigantic scale of their beauty. Listen carefully and you 

may hear the whispers of their tales and the melody of 

their song, before enjoying the delights of a winter market 

and café. Running time: 60 mins, with slots available 

every 15 minutes. 


Christmas Gift Fair 


Shuttleworth House, Old Warden Park, Old Warden, 

Biggleswade SG18 9EA 

Shuttleworth House hosts its first Christmas Gift Fair as 

they partner with an abundance of local independent 

businesses. Stalls will be positioned around all the 

grand rooms of Shuttleworth House for visitors to enjoy 

the stunning interiors as they shop from a variety of 

food, craft, and gift stalls. Entry is free of charge. 


Christmas Bird Walk 

The Christmas Town Market 


Town Centre, Bedford 

Over the weekend there will be local artists and makers 

selling artisan gifts and decorations accompanied by 

festive cheer provided by local bands and choirs. There 

will also be free train rides between Silver Street and 

Midland Road on the Love Bedford Express. Gumball’s 

amusements will once again be offering free rides 

for children and Santa’s Grotto will be in the Harpur 

Shopping Centre. 

29 December 

The Forest Centre, Millennium Country Park, Marston 

Moretaine MK43 0PR 

Finches, ducks, winter thrushes and more… You will be 

on the lookout for robins, ducks and thrushes, but the 

eagle-eyed Volunteer Guides have been known to spot 

other wildlife along the way! Bring your own binoculars 

if you have them, but don’t worry if not as they have 

spares. No dogs are allowed on this walk, as you will 

be visiting the Wetlands Nature Reserve. Dress for the 

weather and make sure you wear sturdy footwear. 

marstonvale.org 

For more event listings in your county 

visit www.eastlife.co.uk/events/ 

71

ONE GIFT CARD. 

THOUSANDS OF CHOICES. 

For a full list of where you can spend the Love Cambridge Gift Card 

please visit www.love-cambridgegiftcard.com 

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delivered by

Cambridgeshire


A Day Trip to 

Linton 

Written by Noah Keate 

74


Set among rolling hills in the Granta valley, Linton has the peaceful charm of many 

Cambridgeshire villages. Yet there is more to Linton than first meets the eye. With its 

family-run zoo, award-winning vineyard, lively brewery and more, a trip to Linton is likely 

to be a day to remember. Here are our top reasons for visiting this charming village. 

Visit the zoo 

At Linton Zoo you can see magnificent cats including lions and tigers, marvel at hairy 

tarantulas and delight in zebras having a dust bath, tapirs taking a dip, lemurs playing in 

trees and giant tortoises wallowing in mud. A family-run animal park with an emphasis 

on conservation and education, this popular attraction is open at the weekends 

throughout the winter. With a children’s play areas, dinosaur trail, café and gift shop, it’s 

a lovely way to spend an afternoon. lintonzoo.com 

Take a riverside walk 

For peace and tranquillity, take a walk along the River Granta. Running through 

the village, the chalk stream is a natural waymark which keeps you aware of your 

surroundings. There are two fords across the Granta and there are always plenty of 

ducks and geese for children to feed. Along its banks, you’ll also find the garden of 

The Dog & Duck, a homely pub serving local food, real ales and craft beers. And, if you 

want to walk off your lunch, take the footpath up to Rivey Hill and its impressive brick 

water tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views from one of the highest points in 

East Anglia. 

Sample the local wine 

Chilford Hall is one of England’s oldest established vineyards which produces awardwinning 

wines. Set over 20 acres, it is home to nine different grape varieties each 

chosen to match the climate and soil conditions and their wine can be purchased 

throughout the year. From Easter to September, you can take a tour and sample some 

of their wines or enjoy an afternoon tea on the terrace. Although just a few miles from 

Cambridge, the vineyards of Chilford Hall will make you feel like you are in another land. 

chilfordhall.co.uk 

Or sink a local beer 

Not many villages can boast a brewery, especially one with a full calendar of 

entertainment. However, Linton is home to Wylde Sky brewing which specialises in 

craft beers, brewed in small batches. Opened in 2018 by Paul, Ross and Chris who 

share a love of good beer, you can visit their shop from Monday to Friday and take a 

tour of the brewery on Saturdays. From Thursday to Sunday, their taproom comes alive 

where you can enjoy beers fresh from the brewery, live music, a mix of rotating food 

trucks and foodie pop-ups, along with a quiz night on the first Thursday of every month. 

wyldeskybrewing.com 

Browse the High Street 

Linton High Street boasts a delightful smattering of independent shops. Pick up some 

beautiful blooms at The Flower Boutique, browse the work of local, national and 

international artists at The Darryl Nantais Gallery, and treat yourself to organic bread and 

pastries at Jigsaw Bakery. If you need to pick up some essentials, there is also a Co-op, 

post office and pharmacy along with a farmers’ market on the first Saturday of each 

month selling local produce, crafts, gifts and plants. 

Enjoy a bite to eat 

During your day trip, a visit to The Linton Kitchen is a must. Offering light lunches, 

thoughtfully sourced tea and coffee and and delicious homemade cakes, this café and 

deli has been a hub of the community since opening in April 2013. For more hearty fare, 

head to the brasserie-style restaurant at The Crown Inn with a menu full of pub classics 

alongside dishes with international flavours. Locals also love the Linton Tandoori and 

Winners Chinese takeaway. 

75

R 

elax 

& 

U 

nwind 

University Arms Aromatherapy Associates treatment rooms are now available to 

both hotel and non-hotel guests, 7-days a week. 

For more than 35 years Aromatherapy Associates, 

a truly British brand, has been specialising in 

harnessing the natural healing powers of the finest 

natural ingredients, purest extracts, and essential oils 

to include in their products and treatments. 

Through their many years of experience as 

therapists, they have seen first-hand how essential 

oils have effectively enhanced the state of people’s 

physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Their 

renowned and award-winning products and 

treatments have transformed the Aromatherapy 

experience into something highly effective yet 

luxurious and exceptional. 

Offers at the treatment rooms: 

Spa Treatment with Afternoon Tea 

package: available 

Wednesday-Friday 12-5pm. 

Enjoy a relaxing Aromatherapy 60 or 

90-minute treatment, followed by a 

delightfully whimsical Afternoon Tea 

at Parker’s Tavern. Also receive a free 

gift from Aromatherapy Associates to 

take a little relaxation home with you 

(60-minute treatment £120pp/ 

90-minute treatment £155pp) 

For further information and to book, please visit universityarms.com/treatment-rooms/ 

To book treatments within the next 7 days please call our concierge on 01223 606066.


Food&Drink 

Epic Brunches with a Twist in Cambridge 

written by Gerla de Boer | www.cbtravelguide.co.uk 

Start your weekend right by catching 

up with friends over one of these 

epic brunches in Cambridge. 

Choose quirky, spicy, bottomless, 

or how about a comforting crisp 

flatbread or shakshuka? Here’s my 

ultimate list of places to brunch 

in Cambridge if you’re looking for 

something a little different. 

1. Bottomless Brunch 

at Gastrono-me 

One of the most popular ways 

to celebrate the weekend is with 

a bottomless brunch. Although 

many pubs and restaurants offer 

this, the brunch at Gastrono-me 

caught my eye with its unlimited 

me-mosas. The bottomless 

experience at Gastrono-me gives 

you 90 minutes to enjoy a main 

course and unlimited me-mosas 

for just £34.95. You can create 

your own me-mosas by mixing 

your bottle of fizz with a juice 

of your choice. Their seasonal 

brunch menus are a real treat, 

created by the chef-owner herself, 

and include Asian and South 

American-inspired dishes. As part 

of their new menu, they recently 

introduced the mac and cheese 

toastie – just the right thing to kickstart 

the weekend. 

gastrono-me.co.uk 

2. Brunch at the 

University – the Orator 

Move away from the hustle and 

bustle of Cambridge, and brunch 

where celebrities such as Robert 

de Niro, Stephen Fry and Emma 

Thompson like to raise their glasses. 

The Orator is home to the Cambridge 

Union Society, one of the most 

famous institutions in Cambridge, 

but also unknown to many visitors. 

Tucked away behind the Round 

Church on Bridge Street, it’s easy to 

miss it. Following an amazing facelift, 

the bar and restaurant re-opened to 

the public in the summer of 2021. 

Over the last year, they have adapted 

the concept and recently merged the 

bar and the restaurant into a Grand 

Café. The perfect place for meeting 

up with friends over cocktails, dinner 

and brunch. 

theoratorcambridge.co.uk 

78


3. Quirky Brunch at the 

Kingston Arms 

Once known as one of the best pubs 

in Cambridge, the Kingston Arms was 

taken over by Moaz from Basta Tel 

Aviv in 2020. Famous for its excellent 

wine list, the Kingston Arms serves 

eastern Mediterranean meze and 

mains. One of their standout dishes 

is the silky hummus and minced 

lamb. It’s also one of the places in 

Cambridge to feast on oysters. Every 

week, it’s Oyster Monday when they 

serve oysters for £1. On Sundays, 

the Kingston Arms serves up a ‘dirty’ 

brunch – definitely a cure for the 

night before! Lazy Sundays with 

friends start in Kingston Street. Moaz’s 

signature drink is Olorosso on ice and 

tonic. If you’re into sherry, it’s the one 

to have! kingstonarms.co.uk 

4. Crisp flatbreads, 

pastries or shakshuka 

at Amelie 

If you have ever been to Alsace, 

or certain regions of France and 

Germany, you will have most likely 

seen flamkuche on the menu. A 

delectable flatbread, so thin it cracks 

lightly in your mouth. Layered with 

generous amounts of fresh toppings 

that burst with flavour with every 

bite. Cheesy and delicious, it is just 

my kinda thing. It looks like pizza but 

tastes so much better and is so much 

lighter. Yes, indeed, it’s a skinny pizza! 

Regis and Alex launched Amelie in 

the Grafton Centre at the beginning 

of 2018, and it is now one of the 

most popular restaurants in the area. 

Since this summer, they have taken 

on a residency at the Cambridge 

Cookery School café serving 

breakfast, lunch and brunch from 

9am to 2pm. Besides flamkuche, they 

serve delicious pastries, shakshuka 

and salads. My eye caught the 

homemade pain perdu with crispy 

bacon on Instagram. Perfect for 

a grey and chilly winter morning. 

amelierestaurants.co.uk 

5. A taste of the East 

at Prana 

Who said curries are only for Friday 

nights? Of course not! Having visited 

India many times, I could tuck into 

an Indian meal any time of the day. 

Yes, in the mornings too! In London, 

you can find many Indian restaurants 

serving breakfast and brunch. We 

weren’t so lucky in Cambridge until 

September this year, when Prana 

on Mill Road launched a bottomless 

weekend brunch. Their seasonal 

offer includes a starter, main and 

bottomless prosecco. It’s available 

every Saturday and Sunday from 

12 until 2pm. Their menu includes 

marrechi paneer as a starter (fresh 

whole chilli stuffed with mild cheese 

covered in breadcrumbs and deep 

fried) and lamb jalfrezi, murgh tikka 

masala plus vegan and vegetarian 

options for mains. 

pranarestaurant.co.uk 

79

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 

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. 

36 Market Place, Oundle 

Peterborough, PE8 4BE 

Tel/Fax: 01832 275414 

Iain Batchelor & Associates 

01480 290120 

Your custom kitchen or 

bedroom starts here 

Iain Batchelor 

Single Will £85/Pair of Wills £150 

Pair Property Trust Wills £250 

Lasting Powers of Attorney 

Home Visits / Telephone / Video 

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Please Request Our Brochure 

ib.associates55@gmail.com 

At Langtry Fitted Furniture we 

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Phone 01353 725 380 

Visit www.langtryfurniture.co.uk 

www.iba-legal.co.uk

Cambridge 

LeatherBags 

THE SPECIALIST LEATHER SHOP 

What to expect on a life coaching journey – my diary, by Anna Hilton, aged 39¾ 

The day before 

Got my first life coaching session tomorrow - bit 

nervous as even though I’ve been considering it for a 

while I’ve no idea what to expect and no idea what I’m 

going to talk about! Just know I feel like I need some 

direction and want to stop feeling so helpless. 

Session 1 

Carrie put me at ease straight away as soon as we 

started the session (via Facetime on my iPad) - I said I 

was excited but also nervous and she told me not to 

worry and to see this as taking time out for myself. 

Carrie’s easy to talk to, kind and professional. She let 

me talk so I could ramble on and find out what my 

goals might be without even realising it! I felt different 

straight away after the session and it feels like there’s 

already been a change in the way I’m thinking about 

things. 

Session 2 

I was looking forward to my appointment and felt 

comfortable again right away. I was able to open up 

without feeling self-conscious. Carrie’s helping me see 

things in a new light, without pushing her own opinions 

on me. I cried and felt very emotional at certain points. 

But it felt good. I don’t think I’d have been able to 

recognise some important issues if she hadn’t been 

there to guide me. She’s naturally intuitive, genuine, 

honest and inspirational. I feel I can trust her not to 

judge me - no matter what I say! I spoke about things 

I’d not thought about for a long time which was quite 

eye opening. 

Session 3 

Today felt liberating. I can totally feel my mindset 

changing and I have Carrie to thank for that. If I say 

something I’m not sure about, she asks why I’m 

feeling a certain way without making me feel silly or 

wrong. She’s helped me recognise things I’ve been 

ignoring without realising it... I actually feel hopeful 

for the first time in a long while and I’m looking 

forward to the revelations that might come out next 

time. Talking to Carrie is like talking to a 

knowledgeable friend, without the judgement. 

Session 4 

Tonight’s session was really helpful as we went back 

over lots of things we’d already talked about - a great 

reminder of what I should be thinking about for my 

goals. It was an emotional session, and even though 

there were no tears, I feel stronger thanks to Carrie’s 

wise words – she’s giving me the tools I need to 

coach my own life, I’m not quite there yet - I know I 

need to thoroughly believe what she’s telling me 

first. 

Final session 

Final session this evening and I feel so much 

stronger thanks to everything Carrie’s been coaching 

me through. Carrie says she can see a difference in 

me, even though we were conducting the sessions 

over video call, and I believe her. She created a safe 

space for me to talk, to let me to see things from a 

different perspective and helped me realise my own 

self-worth - for this I will be eternally grateful. 

LARGE SELECTION OF LEATHER GOODS... 

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QUALITY REPAIR SERVICE Open Mon - Sat 9am - 6pm 

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1 SUSSEX STREET, CAMBRIDGE 

01223 312 971 

Drayton Estates Group are proud to offer quality services 

completed to a very high standard. 

We are specialists in: 

Landscaping work 

Quality Fencing work including Trellises 

Patios 

Resin Driveways 

Front and Back Garden renovations 

Herbicide and pesticide application. 

Specialising in Japanese knot weed and giant hogweed 

All our work is carried out with Love and care 

Patios for example can be planed and laid out from start to finish and also we can tidy up 

existing patios which have been completed by other contractors and are not up to the 

standard required by the customer. 

Contact Drayton Estates group 

01487 208 573 | 07595 342 392 

Email: ben@draytonestatesgroup.com


CAMBRIDGESHIRE NEWS & EVENTS 

News 

A Bright New World 

Cambridge based 

author, acclaimed 

environmentalist, 

and founder of 

Planetari, Cindy 

Forde has released 

a new book ‘Bright 

New World’, a 

non-fiction climate 

change book with 

a difference. The 

book is a lavishly 

illustrated glimpse 

into a future – a 

world in 

which today’s 

children have 

grown up 

and tackled the world’s most pressing social and 

environmental problems. 

Illustrated by Bethany Lord, readers will enter a world 

of solar-powered vehicles, regenerated rainforests, 

skyscraper farms, insect-based snacks, recovering 

coral reefs, wave-powered electricity, and much more. 

The book profiles the biggest names in eco-innovation 

today, as well as some of the brightest young inventors, 

entrepreneurs, and activists, all of whom are making the 

world better, one step at a time. 

With a unique new take on environmental and social 

awareness that focuses on the amazing possible future, 

Bright New World’s vision is bold and optimistic. Yet 

its eager hopefulness is based on genuine science, 

including many projects which are currently being 

developed. 

Discussing the potential impact of the book, author 

Cindy Forde said: “There are many things that we can’t 

do anything about, but also much that we can. Bright 

New World strives to encourage children to focus on the 

possible and to give them the skills needed to be part of 

this transformation.” 

Shoebox Appeal to Brings Christmas 

Cheer 

CHS Group, a 

charitable housing 

association and 

social enterprise 

based in 

Cambridgeshire, has 

launched its 2022 

Shoebox Appeal to 

ensure all the young 

people across its 

supported housing 

services have a gift 

under the tree this 

Christmas. 

CHS Group provides accommodation and support 

services in Ely, Wisbech and Cambridge – supporting 

people who would otherwise be homeless, young 

parents and their children, as well as people with autism, 

learning difficulties and those experiencing mental 

health issues. 

The CHS Group Shoebox Appeal, now in its fourth year, 

invites individuals, schools, churches, businesses and 

community groups to donate shoeboxes filled with a 

range of Christmas gifts. 

CHS Group is inviting donations until Monday 5 

December. There is also a JustGiving page for financial 

donations which will go towards making up a shoebox 

and supporting young people throughout the year. As in 

previous years, any surplus boxes or items received will 

be distributed to other community groups and charities 

across Cambridgeshire which also support vulnerable 

people. chsgroup.org.uk 

Ranger Launches Conservation Book 

Ajay Tegala has 

been a National 

Trust Ranger in the 

East of England 

region for almost 

a decade, and at 

Wicken Fen for 

the last four years. 

Before that, he was 

at Blakeney on the 

Norfolk Coast. 

During the recent 

lockdowns, Ajay 

wrote a book 

about his unique 

experiences as 

a National Trust 

Ranger protecting the rare ground-nesting terns and the 

pupping seals. ‘The Unique Life of a Ranger: Seasons 

of Change on Blakeney Point’ is now available in the 

Wicken Fen shop. 

With the foreword by Megan McCubbin who Ajay 

worked with on Springwatch, the book is a tribute to 

the wonderful wildlife of the Norfolk Coast and the 

dedicated National Trust staff and volunteers that help 

monitor and protect it for everyone to enjoy. 

Food & Drink 

The Turmeric Co. Wins Five Awards 

Functional nutrition company, The Turmeric Co. has 

won five prestigious awards for its Raw Turmeric 

Original shot, Raw Turmeric Vitamin C & D3 shot, and its 

Raw Turmeric & Beetroot shot. 

82


Festive Afternoon Tea (from £26.95 per person) has been 

given the golden touch, served on stunning gilded trays 

adorned with Christmas-themed cakes, scones and classic 

sandwiches. 

The Christmas menu will be available from 16 November. 

theivycambridgebrasserie.com 


The Turmeric Co., based in Chatteris, was announced as 

winners at the 2022 Nourish Awards, the leading health 

food awards in the UK. 

Chariots of Fire confirmed for 2023 

The Turmeric Co.’s Raw Turmeric Original shot won Gold in 

the Health Drinks, Shots and Soft drinks category, whilst the 

brand’s Raw Turmeric Vitamin C & D3 shot won Silver in the 

same group. Raw Turmeric Vitamin C & D3 claimed gold in 

the Nourish supplement awards and Raw Turmeric Original 

won another gold in the Lower or Low Sugar, Sugar-free 

category. Finally, the Raw Turmeric & Beetroot shot was 

chosen by the judges in the Sports Nutrition category to 

receive the Gold award. 

The Turmeric Co. was founded by former Wales 

international striker Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu. Following 

the company’s impressive haul at the Nourish Awards, he 

said: “We are so proud to be chosen among a list of such 

incredible nominees and have enjoyed learning about their 

products too.” theturmeric.co 

Festive Cocktails at The Ivy 

After its postponement in September following the death 

of HM Queen Elizabeth II, Cambridgeshire’s annual charity 

event will now take place on 19 March 2023. 

Chariots of Fire, a relay race founded by HCR Hewitsons 

Charitable Trust, is celebrating its 30th year whilst its 

chosen charity, Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, marks its 40th 

anniversary. 

As in previous years, the money raised will benefit the 

community. This year’s team entries and sponsorship will 

help fund hospice care by enabling Arthur Rank Hospice 

Charity to expand its existing retail business. The charity 

which has a retail hub, five shops and an online operation 

has set an ambitious £71,000 target with the aim to open 

another shop and cover the operating costs for one year. 

Celebrate the season at The Ivy Brasserie in Cambridge 

with their limited-edition festive cocktail menu created in 

collaboration with Monkey 47. 

Featuring six celebratory cocktails, the menu includes the 

Popping Cracker Royale (£13.75) garnished with candy 

floss and popping candy, Nuts About Chocolate (£12.25) 

with a marshmallow cream rim with chocolate flakes, and 

The Ivy’s Very Special Mulled Wine (£9.95) infused with 

cinnamon and orange. 

For larger dining groups, Christmas set menus are available 

from £55 per person for three courses, while a premium 

menu is also available from £60 per person. Meanwhile, 

Donna Talbot, Communication and Income Generation 

Director for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity said: “More 

than £27,000 has already been raised through our 

Just Giving page. We hope as well as those already 

registered, more teams will be inspired to enter and help 

reach our target.” 

The race starts and ends on Queens’ Green. Each runner 

will follow a picturesque and unique 1.7-mile route through 

some of Cambridge’s historic city centre and worldrenowned 

Cambridge University Colleges, over the Cam 

and along the Backs, before passing on the baton to the 

next runner at Queens’ Green and the sixth and final runner 

of each team crosses the finish line. 

To sign up a team visit chariots-of-fire.co.uk and to donate 

funds go to justgiving.com 

83

The Creek.pdf 1 23/02/2022 15:52 

Creek 

Restaurant 

Bar 

Lounge 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

A multi-award winning family run restaurant & bar set in 

a beautiful Grade ll listed building in Great Bentley. 

British dishes with European influence using only the best 

locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by hand picked 

wines to help complement your dining experience. 

2 Cocktails For £10 

Every Wednesday to Friday 6.30pm - 7.30pm 

CMY 

K 

Colchester CO7 8RE 

01255 317950 

www.thecreekgreatbentley.co.uk 

RESTAURANT OF 

THE YEAR


Christmas at Wimpole 


Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW 

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas when over a 

million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air 

with festive fun at Wimpole Estate. Look forward to some 

time together with friends and family as you discover 

sparkling tunnels of light, then walk under giant baubles 

and beneath glistening trees drenched in jewel-like 

colour. For a moment of reflection pause at mesmerising 

flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze at the larger-thanlife 

illuminations and, to make a moment to remember, 

don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way. 

There will be independent street food vendors bringing 

a delicious twist to tempting treats on offer and you 

can complete your walk under the stars with a perfectly 

festive spiced winter warmer, hot chocolate or toasted 

marshmallows shared with someone special. 


© Raymond Gubbay Lights 

Stapleford Granary Christmas 

Market 

10 December 

Bury Road, Stapleford, 

Cambridge CB22 5BP 

Supporting local 

makers and creators, 

craftspeople and 

collectors, join us for 

a festive Christmas 

Market in the magical 

setting of the Granary’s 

sheltered courtyard. 

There’ll be live seasonal music, pop-up food, mulled 

wine, Christmas trees and extended opening hours in 

the café. 

staplefordgranary.org.uk 

Katharine of Aragon Festival 

25 to 29 January 

Peterborough Cathedral, Minster Precincts, 

Peterborough PE1 1XS 

WHAT’S ON 

Oundle Christmas Market 

3 December 

Glapthorn Road, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4JA 

The Beautiful town of Oundle will be filled with a 

traditional Christmas Market selling a wonderful array of 

food, gifts and goodies. Santa will make an appearance 

outside the Talbot Hotel surrounded by his reindeer, 

sleigh and elves. There will be free parking and the town’s 

fabulous independent shops and cafés will be open for 

late-night shopping. 

oundle.gov.uk 

Christmas Magic at Peterborough 

Cathedral 

10 December 

Minster Precincts, 

Peterborough PE1 1XS 

Christmas starts here! All 

your festive favourites 

will be performed by 

Peterborough Male Voice 

Choir, Peterborough 

Voices and Peterborough 

Youth Choir. Performances 

are at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. 

peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 

A Tudor-themed festival commemorating King Henry 

VIII’s first wife’s burial at Peterborough Abbey. The 

weekend events include costumed re-enactors at 

family drop-in days and a moving wreath laying service 

when Katharine’s last letter to her husband will be read. 

Numerous guided Tudor tours of the Cathedral and the 

city are on offer, including one for families led by ‘Old 

Scarlett the Tudor Gravedigger’. A special Cathedral 

at Night open evening will take place on Friday 27 

January, 6.30-8.30pm. More information and tickets at 

peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 



85

Colchester 

Park and Ride 

Stress-free commuting, 

shopping and visiting 

Buses run between 7.00 - 7:30 Mon to Sat 

Safe Secure Car Park 

WiFi on Bus 

Group Ticket (up to 2 adults / 3 children) 

Contactless & App Payments 

12 tickets for the price of 11 

Colchester Park and Ride site 

Park and Ride 

a 

› 

Hospital Path 

Hospital Path 

North Station 

› 

› 

North Station 

Middleborough 

Middleborough 

Head Street 

› 

St Johns Street 

Town Centre 

High Street 

www.essex.gov.uk/parkandride

Essex

Essex 

Winter Fun 

in Essex 

Written by Abby Knight 

It’s the season to wrap up and enjoy all the attractions and events that make winter special in Essex. 

Here’s our pick of the best. 

FESTIVE FANTASY IN COLCHESTER 

GLOW IN A FABULOUS 

FESTIVE GARDEN 

Funnelwick Limb presents the fantasy tale The Chronicles 

of Atom & Luna at the Mercury Theatre on 19 and 20 

November. The magical children’s adventure by poet and 

BBC 6 broadcaster Murray Laclan Young follows young 

heroes Atom and Luna through a fantastical journey with 

music and stunning staging. mercurytheatre.co.uk 

WINTER WOODLAND ADVENTURES 

Paigles is a forest school set in beautiful woodland at Little 

Baddow which offers Woodland Women sessions every 

Thursday through November and December giving visitors 

the chance to connect with the winter moon and forest. 

These meditative sessions are guaranteed to melt away the 

worries of Christmas prep! paigles.co.uk 

ALL ABOARD FOR SOME WINTER FUN 

The Steam Dreams Rail Co is offering a festive trip on 9 

December departing from Southend and taking you to 

visit the spectacular Christmas market in Chichester, with 

the option to join a carol service in St John’s Chapel. On 

board the historic steam train, guests are welcomed with a 

hot mince pie and glass of mulled wine and can bring their 

own hampers or visit the buffet car. For a truly festive day to 

remember, upgrade to full Pullman-style dining with meals 

and wine on board for £329 per person. 

steamdreams.co.uk 

RHS Glow is back for another season at RHS Hyde Hall in 

Chelmsford. Bring all the family along to enjoy the magical 

light show with the garden in breathtaking winter beauty. 

Follow the spectacular light displays, which include a new 

route for 2022, taking visitors onto the hilltop to view the 

Thatched Barn and into the Dry Garden where the dazzling 

lights combine with music. Pick up a tasty treat and hot 

drink along the route or from the Clover Café at the end of 

your experience.rhs.org.uk 

PARTY IN WHAM! STYLE 

Wham!’s Last Christmas 

is a seasonal classic. At 

the Beauvoir Arms in 

Downham near Billericay, 

you can discover the 

talents of Johnny Mack 

– the UK’s best George 

Michael tribute act. Listen 

to the songs of Wham 

and George Michael 

while enjoying a prosecco 

reception and a threecourse 

festive meal with the resident DJ entertaining you 

until midnight. Priced at £45 per person. Call 01268 711115 

for more details and to book. 

88

Essex 

CRAFT A CHRISTMAS WREATH 

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE CASTLE 

THIS CHRISTMAS 

As an extra special festive treat, head to Colchester 

Castle on 7 December from 3-6pm when their Christmas 

Open Evening returns for 2022. Soak up the seasonal 

atmosphere while discovering over 2000 years of history. 

With choirs to entertain as well as mince pies and mulled 

wine, it’s the perfect way to kick-start Christmas. Little 

ones can meet Father Christmas and his cheeky elves for 

£5 which includes a small gift. Entry is free and there is 

no need to book but be prepared to queue at busy times. 

visitcolchester.com 

Making your own Christmas wreath is one of the highlights 

of the festive season and Downham Hall, just outside 

Billericay, is throwing open its doors again for you to do just 

that with the help of a leading florist. Tickets are £65 which 

includes all you need to make your wreath, a glass of festive 

bubbles and a homemade mince pie. Available on 29 

November and 6 December from 7-10pm. 

downhamhall.com 

MEET SANTA ON THE FARM 

TAKE THE CHRISTMAS CAROL TRAIL 

Get ready for a shopping 

experience to remember as the 

Christmas Carol Festival Trail 

launches in Colchester City 

Centre from 16 November to 

8 January. Twelve previously 

empty shop windows will 

showcase twelve unique 

pieces of art from local 

creatives, each linking to the 

story of Scrooge. At each 

window, you can scan a QR 

code and listen to a narration of the classic accompanied 

by Christmas music. All you need is a phone and a pair of 

headphones. One of the artists is Sarah Widlake, a milliner 

who has created a fabulous Brussels sprout hat as part of 

her display. christmascarolfestivetrail.co.uk 

A CHRISTMAS SHOP WITH A 

DIFFERENCE 

The popular Marsh Farm animal adventure park in South 

Woodham Ferrers has added even more magic to its Father 

Christmas Experience this year. Before embarking on your 

enchanted adventure, the elves in passport control will 

need to grant special access to the North Pole. You can 

then join the Elf Academy and become an honorary Elf for 

the year. Then, it’s on to meet Santa in his festive grotto. 

There is also a seasonal fair and ice rink as well as hot food 

and festive drinks. Prices from £6.99, with toddlers’ tickets 

just £2. marshfarm.co.uk 

Step back in time this Christmas at Perrywood Garden 

Centre in Tiptree with their Christmas displays that will 

take you on a journey through some of Britain’s best-loved 

decades. Featuring iconic styles and decorations from the 

1800s through to the 1980s, you can take a festive selfie as 

you browse and collect ideas for how to make your home 

and garden truly magical this Christmas. Every Wednesday 

from 16 November to 7 December the centre will be open 

until 7.30pm – the perfect time to see all the twinkling 

Christmas lights! perrywood.co.uk 

89

"Where Quality & Freshness Counts" 

We're a small family run business, passionate about fresh, local produce and 

quality products and we want you to share our passion too! 

NS Risdon, a top quality traditional butcher is located in store. 

With full traceability his meat is superb. We also now have a cheese counter 

serving a wide range of British and continental cheeses. 

Something for every taste and occasion! 

Monday : Closed Tuesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm 

Wednesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Thursday : 8.30am – 5.30pm 

Friday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Saturday : 8.30am – 5.30pm 

Sunday : 10am – 2pm 

Café Opening hours Tuesday to Saturday 8.30 – 4.30 

and Sunday & Monday CLOSED 

www.calcotthall.com 

Calcott Hall Farm Shop, Ongar Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9HS Tel: 01277 264164 

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 

FOR SALE 

IN ESSEX 

Please Call Mrs Griffiths. 

Tel: 07814 368 528 For further details.

NEW 

Introducing... 

The Chefs Table 

Discover the history of Channels Bar & Brasserie, while Head Chef Dan Pitts and his brigade 

take your taste buds on a one-off culinary journey through plentiful Essex right to your plate. 

The Chefs Table features ‘Menu 25’, inspired by family and childhood memories of Chef Dan 

and uses only the finest local ingredients sustainably sourced. The majority of our suppliers 

come from a 25 mile radius of our door, including our own Chef’s Garden and honeybees! 

£125 per person includes: 

Unique, one off 7 Course Taster Menu with drink pairings throughout 

Meet our Head Chef Dan while he guides you through ‘Menu 25’ 

Exciting surprises along your journey 

Availble Friday lunchtime & evening. Please allow 3 hours to enjoy the whole experience. 

Min. booking of four people, max. of eight. Booking requires a £50 non-refundable deposit. 

Find out more about this unique experience at: www.channelsestate.co.uk 

HOW TO BOOK: Booking can be made via EMAIL ONLY: brasserie@channelestate.co.uk 

Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East, Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT (Entrance by the Park & Ride)

Essex 

Food&Drink 

Fabulous Festive Food 

written by Krista Price 

The temperature is dropping, the nights are drawing in, 

and summer is nothing but a distant memory. It’s time to 

start thinking about Christmas and getting those festive 

plans in place! In Essex, we are spoilt for choice when it 

comes to pubs and restaurants so here are a few of my 

recommendations for good food and drink to keep you 

warm and toasty this winter. 

The Ferry Boat Inn 

Greenwoods Hotel and Spa 

Stock Road, Stock, CM4 9BE 

Greenwoods is a beautiful grade two listed manor house 

in the quaint village of Stock, well known for spa days, 

weddings and themed events. Throughout December 

it will be hosting a Christmas Cracker afternoon tea for 

only £39 per person. This includes a generous variety 

of finger sandwiches and a mouth-watering selection 

of cakes and scones with a festive twist which you can 

enjoy with a glass of warming cinnamon mulled wine 

or unlimited tea and coffee. There will be a live singer 

performing the classic Christmas songs we all know and 

love whilst you are surrounded by stunning decorations 

to get you in the festive spirit. If afternoon tea isn’t your 

thing, you can visit Ellis’s restaurant, a fine dining restaurant 

based inside Greenwoods, and enjoy their festive menu. 

greenwoodshotel.com 

Ferry Road, North Fambridge, CM3 6LR 

I have recently discovered the Ferry Boat Inn and it is 

already one of my favourite restaurants in Essex. Based in 

North Fambridge, just a stone’s throw away from the river 

Crouch, The Ferry Boat Inn is a charming pub with high 

ceilings, beautiful wooden beams, and a cosy log burner. 

There is something I love about wrapping up in the winter 

and heading out for a long walk, then indulging in a hearty 

pub meal to warm up, and this is the perfect place to do 

just that. Take your four-legged friends along as it is a dogfriendly 

pub with several walking routes nearby. This festive 

season, the Christmas menu has three courses for only 

£29.95. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available. 

ferryboatinnessex.com 

92

Essex 

Acanteen 

Sutton Road, Rochford, SS4 1LQ 

Scott’s of Southend café is a hidden gem based inside 

an impressive garden centre serving delicious breakfast, 

lunch, and afternoon tea. This festive season, from October 

through to December, it is hosting an indoor Christmas 

market where you can browse and purchase a range 

of gifts. You can also grab a bite to eat from the festive 

food hut. If you prefer to dine in the restaurant, I highly 

recommend trying the Sunday roast with all the trimmings 

and enormous Yorkshire puddings, or the seasonal 

afternoon tea which you can enjoy outside in your own 

private heated dining pod. scottsofsouthend.co.uk 

The Galvin Green Man 

35 New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0ND 

If you’re from Chelmsford or the surrounding area, the 

chances are you’ve heard of or have been to Acanteen 

before. Situated in the heart of the city, Acanteen is a 

popular family-owned restaurant offering brunch, cocktails, 

and amazing Sunday roasts (just look at that cauliflower 

cheese!). It also hosts many fabulous events such as 

comedy nights and boozy bingo. If you’re looking for 

somewhere to celebrate Christmas with your friends or 

work colleagues, Acanteen is offering festive party nights 

for £45 per person which includes three courses from their 

delicious menu, and a DJ until late so you can dance the 

night away. acanteen.co.uk 

Scott’s of Southend 

Main Road, Howe Street, CM3 1BG 

In the beautiful countryside of Great Waltham, you will find 

the Galvin Green Man, a striking pub and restaurant serving 

high-quality, delicious food. Owned by the Michelin-starred 

Galvin brothers, it is clear to see why it was awarded the 

best pub in Essex in 2022. The interior is stunning, with 

an open but cosy feel, with large windows and an inviting 

fireplace. If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate 

a special occasion over the winter period, then look no 

further. The menu is on the pricier side, but I can guarantee 

you won’t be left disappointed by the quality of the food 

or the flawless service. Reservations for the restaurant 

are strongly advised whereas the pub is walk-in only. 

galvinrestaurants.com 

Find Krista on Instagram @thehungrykp 

93

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Essex 

ESSEX NEWS & EVENTS 

News 

Beauty Entrepreneur Invents Anti- 

Ageing Pillow 

A successful salon owner with over 20 years in the 

beauty industry became obsessed with the idea of 

keeping her clients looking fresh and youthful – even 

before they’d begun their day! 

Essex-based entrepreneur Tracey Woolley, said: ‘We 

move an average of 13 times every hour during the 

night, mostly ending up on our side leaving skin looking 

creased which can lead to more permanent lines on 

face, neck and chest over time.’ 

A pillow that corrects posture seemed to be the best 

option which led to Tracey partnering with experts Deo 

Beauty. Four years on and with extensive research, The 

Fresh Face Pillow was created. The uniquely shaped 

pillow not only helps reduce the effects of ageing while 

you sleep, it also helps correct the body’s alignment so 

you wake up with less tension. 

Braintree Village has announced the transformation of 

its unique multi-seasonal store which will see its current 

Havaianas store become Happy Socks for the winter. 

The store, located near Nike on the centre’s South Mall, 

replaces the seasonal Havaianas store which began 

selling the brand’s iconic range of flip-flops, sandals and 

slippers in April this year. 

Founded in 2008, Swedish company Happy Socks sells 

sustainable, fashionable socks in eye-catching designs 

inspired by everything from art and fashion to pop 

culture and foodie favourites. To celebrate its official 

opening, customers will be treated to an in-store offer of 

three pairs of socks for £20, for a limited time only. 

Josef O’Sullivan, Centre Director of Braintree Village, 

commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Happy 

Socks for the festive season following the first stint of 

our multi-seasonal store with Havaianas. In the run-up 

to Christmas, this new offering is the perfect addition to 

our retail line-up, providing guests with a range of festive 

designs which will make the perfect present.” 

Santa Returns to Fenwick Colchester 

Tracey, who owns a popular salon in Leigh on Sea, 

added: ‘We put it through a certified clinical trial, and 

it has been 100% proven to reduce lines with a 13% 

reduction over eight weeks for some users.’ 

The Fresh Face Pillow contains a cooling gel that 

promotes restful sleep, and the washable satin case 

helps prolong the effects of beauty treatments and 

your blow dry. Available at the special price of £97 for a 

limited time at freshfacepillow.com 

Havaianas become Happy Socks for 

Winter 

From Saturday 12 November, Santa is setting up his 

workshop in Fenwick Colchester to delight families. Not 

only will guests get to meet the man himself inside the 

magical grotto, sit in his famous sleigh and sing a festive 

tune with the reindeer, they also will be able to assist 

the elves with a spot of crafting by decorating a ceramic 

plate to take home ready to place Christmas Eve treats 

on for Santa. 

The magical grotto will be aglow on selected dates 

in November and then daily throughout December 

(except Mondays). Tickets are priced at £10 per person 

and children (and well-behaved parents) are invited to 

visit for a truly enchanting and immersive festive family 

experience. 

Santa’s Breakfast and Supper Clubs will also be 

available on various dates in November and December 

when customers can eat to their heart’s content at 

Carluccio’s before being guided by the elves to Santa’s 

Grotto. Here the elves will welcome guests and lead 

them into a magically snowy forest on their way to 

Santa’s Christmas Craft Factory where guests can 

decorate a ceramic plate for Santa’s treats on Christmas 

Eve. For more information and to book visit 

fenwick.co.uk 

96

Essex 

Saffron Hall Launches New Season 

Caribbean restaurant and bar Turtle Bay in Chelmsford has 

launched its Christmas offering and it’s sun-kissed tropical 

escapism all the way. 

Turtle Bay Chelmsford’s vibrant soul food makes the 

perfect, laid-back festive feasting experience. Guests can 

choose two courses for £19 or three courses for £24. For 

those who believe that the gang who graze together stay 

together, there’s an option to mix and match starters and 

small plates if two and three-course dining isn’t your thing. 

Whether you fancy big Bottomless celebrations with the 

full team, festive lunch with your BFFs, Christmas cocktails 

during the late-night happy hour, or a family reunion 

over dinner and drinks, Turtle Bay is welcoming back the 

Christmas party in all its glory. 

Saffron Hall has announced an exciting programme of 

events running from January until August 2023 which will 

include returning favourites Aurora Orchestra, BBC Concert 

Orchestra, and London Philharmonic Orchestra 

The new season launches with A New Year’s Celebration 

with the BBC Concert Orchestra on Monday 2 January 

2023. Other highlights of the season include The London 

African Gospel Choir’s glorious reinterpretation of Paul 

Simon’s Graceland in February. 

After a quieter couple of years of New Year celebrations, 

Turtle Bay are doing what they do best and reigning in 2023 

island style – think dreamy cocktails, uplifting reggae beats 

and ultimate feel-good vibes as Turtle Bay presents their 

NYE Bottomless Dinner. Celebrate with unlimited cocktails 

for two hours alongside two courses for £44 or three 

courses for £49. For more information or to book a table, 

visit turtlebay.co.uk 

In April, Cbeebies makes its first visit to the Hall joined by the 

BBC Symphony Orchestra for a fun-filled ocean adventure. 

This exciting and magical event features popular CBeebies 

characters, theme tunes, orchestral treats, live-action film 

and animation. 

A Saffron Hall favourite, the Aurora Orchestra, returns in May 

for American Rhapsody, a programme of American greats 

featuring popular classics including Gershwin’s Rhapsody 

in Blue and the Symphonic Dances from Bernstein’s West 

Side Story. 

Tickets for all of their new season events are on sale now at 

saffronhall.com 

Food & Drink 

A Caribbean Christmas & Bottomless 

Cocktails 


80’s Pop Icons at Audley End 

Heritage 

Live has 

announced 

the first show 

of its 2023 

summer 

outdoor 

concert series 

in the grounds 

of English 

Heritage’s 

Audley End 

House & 

Gardens 

in Saffron 

Walden. 

Celebrating 

the most 

defining 

music of 

the 80s, this 

seismic synthpop 

spectacle brings a line-up of three acts who continue 

to release ground-breaking new music. 

Soft Cell headline the event on Friday 11 August, which 

also features special guests Orchestral Manoeuvres In The 

Dark, and Heaven 17. Legendary DJs, Readers Wifes, will 

get the party started at the show from 3pm. Tickets and 

more information are available at axs.com/heritagelive 

© Andrew Whitton 

97

Essex 

Christmas Market at the Coach House 

7 December 

Castle Park, Colchester CO1 1TJ 

As an extra special festive treat, Colchester Castle’s 

free Christmas Open Evening is back for 2022. Soak 

up the festive atmosphere, whilst seeing over 2,000 

years of amazing history. With choirs, mince pies and 

mulled wine, it’s going to be a great way to get in the 

spirit of the season. There will also be an opportunity 

to meet Father Christmas and his cheeky elves and 

receive a special gift. Make sure you take some time 

out to discover the castle’s many nationally important 

treasures, plus the Wicked Spirits? exhibition. 

colchester.cimuseums.org.uk 

WHAT’S ON 

Hylands Estate Christmas Open Day 

and Farmers’ & Craft Market 

3-4 December 

Coach House, Markshall Estate, Marks Hall Road, 

Coggeshall, Essex CO6 1TG 

Markshall Estate invites you to celebrate the start of 

the festive season in the stunning surroundings of the 

18th-century Coach House. Browse the Christmas Market 

and shop for unique gifts and crafts that will make the 

ideal present for that someone special. With lots of local 

craftspeople and businesses filling the Coach House 

with their works, you’ll be sure to find unique gifts, tasty 

tipples and much more. The bar will be serving festive 

refreshments throughout the event. 

markshall.org.uk 

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Christmas 

4 December 

Chelmsford Cathedral, New Street, Chelmsford CM1 1TY 

Enjoy a magical Christmas concert by candlelight in the 

beautiful setting of Chelmsford Cathedral. The exceptional 

musicians of the Piccadilly Sinfonietta will perform 

masterpieces by Chopin, Corelli and Vivaldi, including the 

epic Four Seasons. This spectacular concert will ensure 

you celebrate the festive season in style. 

skiddle.com 

Christmas Open Evening at Colchester 

Castle 

18 December 

Hylands House, Hylands Estate, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ 

Hylands House opens its doors to reveal the secrets 

behind its history. The Farmers’ & Craft Market is 

located both outside the front of Hylands House and 

inside the Grand Pavilion. The market is a treasure trove 

of local food, drink, and crafts direct from the producers 

and makers. Christmas wreaths, macramé, mulled wine 

and sweet treats are just some of the delights you’ll 

find. Find unique gifts as the artists, designers and 

makers open their studios, as well as local suppliers 

and vendors. The Stables Café will offer tasty festive 

delights from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter 

warmers and hot chocolate. Hawthorn Heavy Horses 

will be providing carriage rides throughout the day. You 

will be able to book this on the day at the event. To top it 

all off, Santa will be popping by to say ‘hello’. 

hylandsestate.co.uk 



99

RESIDENTIAL | NURSING | DEMENTIA | RESPITE 

Exceptional care from a compassionate team 

Person centred care is at the heart of Signature’s ethos. Our empathetic care teams provide both high quality, 

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REVIEW FROM NIGEL M (SON OF RESIDENT) 

SIGNATURE AT BENTLEY HOUSE 

Pegs Lane, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG13 8EG 

enquiries.bentleyhouse@signaturesl.co.uk 

signature-care-homes.co.uk 

13 July 2022

Hertfordshire 

© Christmas at Hatfield House

Hertfordshire 

things to do in Hertfordshire 

this winter 

The weather may be 

colder and the days 

shorter, but there’s 

still plenty of fun to 

be had throughout 

the county over the 

winter months. We’ve 

picked some of our 

favourite indoor and 

outdoor activities to 

bring out your inner 

child, get your body 

moving, provide a 

glimpse into history, 

or give you time with 

your family. 

Written by Ana Garcia Sancho 

0 

2 

Discover 

Tring 

Reservoirs 

and wildlife 

The Tring 

Reservoirs 

provide lovely 

walks around the Grand Union 

Canal and are a great place for 

spotting wildlife at any time of 

the year. In the winter, the elusive 

bittern can sometimes be seen, 

roosting in the reeds and feeding 

on the abundant fish. 

1 

Spend a day 

4 

in a historic 

market 

town 

Hitchin is a 

medieval 

market town 

with cobbled 

streets, historic 

buildings and an attractive Market 

Place, offering a full day of history 

and shopping. With numerous 

independent shops and an annual 

two-week Christmas market, it’s 

the perfect place to pick up your 

presents. A visit to St Mary’s Church, 

set in a green space in the centre of 

the town on the banks of the River 

Hiz, is a must. 

Enjoy Christmas at 

Hatfield Park 

Visit the brand new after-dark 

illuminated trail through the 

historic estate with over a million 

twinkling lights and seasonal 

sounds filling the air. From 

25 November to 31 December, 

discover sparkling tunnels of light, 

mesmerising flickering flames in 

the fire garden, and larger-than-life 

illuminations. 

3 

Catch a show 

in Welwyn 

Garden City 

One of only two 

garden cities, 

Welwyn Garden 

City is a busy town 

with plenty of places to eat and shop, 

set among lovely parks and green 

spaces. After exploring, treat yourself 

to a performance by the awardwinning 

Barn Theatre Club in their 

17th-century timber-framed barn. 

barntheatre.co.uk 

5Have fun 

at Paradise 

Wildlife Park 

Enjoy a family day 

out at Paradise 

where you can see 

over 800 animals 

including tigers, snow leopards, 

penguins, anacondas and white lions, 

as well as animatronic dinosaurs! 

With indoor and outdoor play areas, 

there’s plenty to keep the kids happy, 

whatever the weather. You can also 

visit Santa who will be at Paradise 

every weekend from 3 December 

and every day from 17-24 December. 

pwpark.com 

102

Hertfordshire 

6 

Schedule a 

spa day at 

the Grove 

Hotel 

This 5-star hotel, 

set in 300 acres 

of Hertfordshire 

countryside, is the ultimate 

getaway. In their award-winning 

Sequoia Spa, guests enter 

a world of relaxation with a 

bubbling jacuzzi, sauna, steam 

room and an impressive range of 

beauty treatments. 

thegrove.co.uk/spa 

7 

Explore the ruins 

of a 13th-century 

castle 

Find out about 950 years of 

history by visiting the ruins 

of Berkhamsted Castle, one 

of England’s oldest motte 

and bailey castles. From the Norman 

Conquest onward, numerous royals 

and notable historical figures have 

lived within the castle walls including 

Edward the Black Prince, Thomas 

Becket and Geoffrey Chaucer. 

english-heritage.org.uk 

Ski and 

snowboard 

in Hemel 

Hempstead 

8 

Whether you are 

a beginner or an 

expert, the Snow 

Centre in Hemel 

Hempstead 

offers a range of lessons and 

recreational sessions to suit 

everyone. The main slope, which 

is huge at 160m long and 30m 

wide, is covered in real snow 

making it the next best thing 

to being on a mountain. After 

your adventures, you can relax 

in the alpine-themed bar and 

restaurant. thesnowcentre.com 

Take a Wheathampstead 

Heritage Trail 

Explore the unique story of 

Wheathampstead, often referred 

to as the first capital of England, 

with a timeline 

dating back 

9 

10,000 years. 

Six countryside 

walks and one 

village centre 

trail lead to 

numerous 

heritage sites, 

such as Celtic 

defensive 

earthworks, 

Roman thoroughfares and the 

historic village of Ayot St Lawrence. 

wheathampsteadheritage.org.uk 

10 

Visit Hogwarts in the 

snow 

Experience Christmas in the 

wizarding world, from 12 November 

to 15 January, with a festive Harry 

Potter studio tour. Located at the 

Leavesden studios where the Harry 

Potter films were made, visitors can 

see the iconic sets covered in a 

blanket of snow and the Great Hall 

dressed for the famous Yule Ball 

scene in Harry Potter and the Goblet 

of Fire. wbstudiotour.co.uk 

103

Hertfordshire 

Food&Drink 

A Golden Era for The Silver Cup 

Restaurant Review 

Sat on the edge of Harpenden Common, The Silver Cup 

is a traditional Victorian pub that has served locals well for 

many years. Now, under new management, it is evolving 

into something very special. 

Named ‘one to watch’ by The Good Food Guide and voted 

Best Pub in Hertfordshire in 2022, The Silver Cup has been 

transformed by new owners Matthew and Michael, lifelong 

friends who grew up in Harpenden and share a love of food. 

Matthew is head chef, having worked in some of the top 

restaurants in London and Hertfordshire including Auberge 

du Lac, The Galvin Brothers and Anglo in Farringdon, while 

Michael runs front of house following a career in hospitality 

in the US and then with Mitchells and Butler and Greene 

King back in the UK. 

Under their leadership, The Silver Cup has become a 

stylish bar – with a very stylish barman mixing proper 

cocktails – and a contemporary dining space serving 

modern British food. 

A generous Sunday roast is great value at £45 for three 

courses, and steak night takes place on the last Wednesday 

of every month. A set lunch menu is available on Fridays 

and Saturdays and there’s a tempting small plates menu in 

the bar, which remains a welcoming place to enjoy a pint. 

The star of the show though, which we were happily 

booked in for, is the seasonal set menu available on 

Thursday to Saturday evenings, comprising seven courses 

for £70 with an optional wine flight at £40. 

We started with a trio of bite-sized ‘snacks’; each one a treat. 

A delicate duck egg gribiche came sandwiched between 

barley crackers enlivened with fennel seeds, a silky 

taramasalata topped a soft pommes Anna, and a deeply 

flavoured beef short rib sat decorated with pretty pearls of 

black garlic and lemon purée. Already, it was clear that a 

lot of thought and a lot of work goes into every element of 

every dish. 

104

Hertfordshire 

Our wine flight began with a delicious glass of Caizergues 

‘Le Voisins’ Blanc served alongside a fresh-tasting tartlet 

made with the thinnest pastry and filled with Cornish crab 

and zesty grapefruit and herbs. 

We were momentarily fooled by the simplicity of the 

sourdough and yeast butter that followed but after one 

bite we were hooked and agreed that the deeply umami 

whipped butter was one of the most delicious and moreish 

things we had ever tasted. 

In contrast, the scallop with cauliflower, coronation 

mayonnaise, sherry jelly and puffed potato was a complex 

dish with multiple layers of flavour and texture. The 

accompanying glass of German Wolf Cuveé Kurt matched 

it well, initially providing a surprising hint of cider which 

changed with the food. 

A rich dish of Aylesbury duck and Toulouse sausage with 

date ketchup and bitter leaves came next with a glass of 

velvety Portuguese pinot noir. I devoured the lot, and then 

worried I wouldn’t be able to stay the course until Michael 

arrived with a refreshing granita which hit my tastebuds, 

waking my appetite, and I was ready for more. 

The menu finished with a stunning dessert. A clever take 

on a Black Forest gâteau with a light mousse and all the 

nostalgic flavours of the classic dessert encased in a crisp 

layer of chocolate, topped with a morello cherry sorbet 

and chewy tuile. A glass of Recite Classico DOCG Cantina 

Negrar was the perfect accompaniment. 

If you have room – surprisingly, we did – there is also an 

optional cheese course at £14. A creamy Cote Hill Blue, 

handmade in Lincolnshire, came on a rich malt loaf with 

apricot and candied walnut. 

Michael was a great host throughout, warmly welcoming 

us and talking us through each dish and accompanying 

wine. He explained their plans for the pub’s future 

which include an improved outside seating area and 

refurbishment of the rooms. 

At The Silver Cup, the team do everything right. Delicious 

and beautiful dishes come out of the kitchen into the 

buzzing restaurant. They also tick all the boxes for ethically 

sourced produce with preserving, fermenting, pickling, 

butchering and curing all taking place onsite to keep waste 

to a minimum. 

We visited on a Friday night, and the restaurant had a great 

atmosphere with every table taken. Already the word is 

out that this is the place to drink and dine. The refurbished 

rooms will bring more guests from further afield, making 

it the destination pub it most definitely deserves to be. It’s 

worth booking now to beat the crowds. 

The Silver Cup 

5 St Albans Road, Harpenden, Al5 2JF 

thesilvercup.co.uk 

105

Hertfordshire 

HERTFORDSHIRE NEWS & EVENTS 

News 

Hump, Hump, Hooray for the 

Woburn Camels! 

The Bactrian camels at Woburn Safari Park can now be 

spotted in their brand-new enclosure, having moved in 

at the end of September. 

The keeper team welcomed the camels to their new 

home and helped them settle straight in with some fun 

housewarming gifts and a special ‘Welcome Home’ sign 

made with some of their favourite treats. 

Bactrian camels – with their distinctive two humps – can 

reach over seven feet tall and weigh around 1800lbs 

each, so their new home had to be carefully designed 

by keepers and architects to accommodate the specific 

needs of this larger-than-life species. 

Tom Robson, Head of Reserves, explained: “The house 

includes an area for feeding, one large bed for sleeping 

and plenty of space for the expanding herd, including 

newest calves Wednesday and Walter who were born 

earlier this year and still have lots of growing to do!” 

The new house will also help the keepers with 

behaviour training and interacting with the camels, with 

a specially designed system that gives the team more 

options for completing important health and welfare 

checks and administering veterinary care. A series 

of gates create a small temporary holding area that 

the camels walk into, where they can be comfortably 

contained temporarily so that keepers can get up close 

and manage their care safely. 

Co-op Invest in Sawbridgeworth 

Following the retirement of the current owners, Central 

England Co-op has purchased Gravelle’s Budgens store 

in Sawbridgeworth. 

The new Co-op store will open in November following 

an £800,000 refurbishment with a new layout, additional 

parking spaces and new customer toilets including 

baby changing facilities. The existing team members 

will remain in place, ready to welcome their customers 

back to the store. 

Andy Peake, Commercial Director at Central England 

Co-op, said: “Our purchase of the Sawbridgeworth store 

allows us to continue to invest in our local high streets 

as part of our growth strategy and to join the wonderful 

community here. We acquired Gravelle’s Budgens at 

Sawston Cambridge a few years ago and are excited to 

see the same success here in Sawbridgeworth.” 

Central England Co-operative is one of the largest 

independent retail co-operative societies in the UK, 

with 8,000 colleagues serving customers across over 

400 trading sites across much of the country including 

Suffolk, Norfolk, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire. 

Hertford Calendar 2023 Launched 

The Official Hertford 2023 Calendar is now on sale. 

During the summer, the public submitted their 

photographs of Hertford in a competition to be included 

in the calendar. Over 80 people entered a total of more 

than 200 images for the competition, giving the judging 

panel the difficult task of selecting photographs for the 

cover and each month. 

The calendar is available to buy at the Hertford 

Town and Tourist Information Centre for £10 each 

or two for £18. The calendar can also be purchased 

via the Hertford Town Council online shop at 

hertfordtownshop.co.uk 

Food & Drink 

Brand New Pub Opens on Watford 

High Street 

Owned by Oakman Inns, The Beech House has 

opened its doors on Watford High Street adjacent to the 

entrance to the Atria shopping centre. 

106

Hertfordshire 

General Manager, Giancarlo Ungaro, who first joined 

Oakman Inns in 2015, said: “We are so excited to welcome 

the people of Watford to our sixth Beech House. Our 

40-strong team has spent the last two months training and 

honing their skills. We have an experienced chef brigade 

led by Head Chef, Alan Eiesenband, and Senior Sous Chef, 

Joni Matos, who between them have worked with some 

of the best chefs in the UK including the likes of Gordon 

Ramsay and Ottolenghi.” 

New Dinner Service at Coach 

House Kitchen 

The large corner in front of the pub has been turned into 

an enclosed ‘pavement café’ or terrace – perfect for 

watching the world go by. The restaurant features the 

Beech House’s characteristic open theatre-style kitchen 

where diners can watch the team prepare their orders from 

breakfast until late. 

The large bar has an extensive hot and cold drinks menu 

including Fairtrade coffee and other hot drinks and a range 

of beers, wines and cocktails including low and nonalcoholic 

options. 

Hertfordshire’s first Bombass on 

the Menu 

Located in the Stable Yard within Hatfield Park, the Coach 

House Kitchen has been serving breakfast, brunch, lunch 

and afternoon teas since its opening in 2021. Now the 

popular restaurant is offering an early evening dinner 

service along with a variety of live music evenings. 

Open from 9am to 9pm Tuesday to Saturday and 9am 

to 7pm Sunday, the Coach House Kitchen has a varying 

menu, with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and children’s 

options available. Their seasonal menu includes 

sustainable produce and monthly specials created by Head 

Chef Manuel Tovar and his team. 

The Stable Yard also boasts independent businesses 

offering gifts, jewellery, arts and crafts, and a selection 

of services. 

To view the menus and book a table visit 

hatfield-house.co.uk 

Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen will be featuring 

Hertfordshire’s first ‘Bombass’ on its Christmas Menu 

this year. 

The Bombass, originally a Catalan delicacy, has been 

adapted by Lussmanns’ head chef Nick McGeowan 

and reinvented as a starter dish, Harpenden Bombass: a 

croquette of organic mutton, with mashed potato, aioli and 

brava sauce. 

The festive menu, which will be available in each of the 

group’s five Hertfordshire restaurants, offers five starters, 

seven mains and four puddings – including vegetarian and 

vegan options for each course. Every diner also receives a 

sustainable festive cracker. 

The Harpenden Bombass is the debut dish from a 

collaboration between Lussmanns and Hammonds End 

Farm, a local ground-breaking organic family farm that 

has been run by the Roberts family for three generations, 

and which is committed to the highest levels of welfare for 

its animals. 

The Christmas menu is available from 28 November until 2 

January 2023 and costs £32 for three courses. 

Coming Soon… 

GBBF back at Knebworth in 2023 

The Great British Food Festival returns to Knebworth 

House next year over the weekend of 15-16 July and 

will be situated right next to the country house which is 

surrounded by a 250-acre deer park. 

Every corner of the festival site has something to see or join 

in with including chef demos, Men v Food, live music, Cake 

Off, foraging walks, kids cookery, BBQ and bake stage, 

artisan market, kids activities, street food and bars. 

Tickets to the event also include free on-site parking and 

free entrance to the adventure playground with zip wire, 

bouncy castle and new interactive splash-play water 

features as well as the dinosaur trail with 70 life-sized 

dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures and 28-acre formal 

gardens including a maze. 

For more information and to buy your tickets head to 

greatbritishfoodfestival.com 

107

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Hertfordshire 

Christmas at Hatfield Park 

New Year’s Eve Black Tie Party 

WHAT’S ON 


Hatfield Park, Hatfield, AL9 5NB 

A brand new after-dark illuminated trail through the 

perfectly festive Hatfield Park. It’s beginning to look a lot 

like Christmas when over a million twinkling lights and 

seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun at historic 

Hatfield Park. For a moment of reflection pause at 

mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze at 

the larger-than-life illuminations and, to make a moment 

to remember, don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas 

along the way. 

hatfield-house.co.uk 

Winter Wonderland Trail 


Hertford Town Centre 

A free town centre trail for children to enjoy with their 

families. Knitted characters will be hiding in shop 

windows around the town centre for children to spot. To 

take part in the trail, families should visit Hertford Town 

and Tourist and Tourist Information Centre, in The Wash 

opposite Hertford Theatre, to pick up a trail map from the 

leaflet holder. 

31 December 

H@ME & EAT, Unit 3 Birchanger Industrial Estate, 

Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2TH 

Get dressed up and join us for an evening full of 

sophistication, amazing performances, and special 

surprises. Rendezvous at the red carpet and be 

welcomed with a glass of the finest prosecco and 

signature canapés. Be spellbound by the performance 

of Kevin Fitzsimmons and his Rat Pack Band in our 

spectacular venue. Dance the night away with our 

amazing DJ. Delicious canapés throughout the 

evening, with a post-midnight treat to round the 

evening off. This will be a night to remember! 

eventbrite.co.uk 

St Albans Symphony Orchestra: New 

Year Concert 

2 January 

St Albans 

Cathedral, 

Sumpter Yard, 

St Albans, AL1 

1BY 

Welcome the 

New Year in 

the glorious 

surroundings 

of St Albans 

Cathedral 

with St Albans 

Symphony 

Orchestra 

performing Tchaikovsky: ballet music from The 

Nutcracker, Saint-Saens: Dance Macabre, Herold arr 

Lanchbery: La fille mal gardée – Clog Dance, Copland: 

Appalachian Spring, Marquez: Danzon 2, Chaminade: 

Callirhoe, and Strauss: Fruhlingsstimme Waltz. 

stalbanscathedral.org 



109

ChantryPlace.co.uk 

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Norfolk

Norfolk 

Winter 

Wildlife 

seals pups in Norfolk 

© Rob Coleman 

Written by Hannah Parry 

Winter might not seem like the most 

obvious time to go wildlife watching, but 

the seals at Horsey and Winterton don’t 

notice the cold. From late November, 

thousands of fluffy white seal pups dot 

the pristine Norfolk beaches. Here’s how 

to see them for yourself. 

Fifteen years ago, 50 pups entered the world on Horsey 

beach. Last year, 3,500 baby seals were born on beaches 

along the coast. Not all at once, though. Peter Ansell, Chair 

of Friends of Horsey Seals, told us how Mother Nature works. 

“Basically, it’s very simple,” he explained, “the male seals 

come ashore and stake out an area before the pregnant 

females leave the water to give birth. The new pup can’t go 

in the water yet because it has fluffy soft fur when it’s born.” 

He went on to explain that the mother stays to suckle the 

baby for up to three weeks before returning to the ocean. 

“The poor little pup stays on its own for another two weeks,” 

he continued. “Once it sheds its baby fur and has its 

waterproof adult fur, it can enter the sea and feed on fish.” 

This means that throughout the pupping season, baby 

seals at different ages can be seen on the sandy beaches; 

the youngest are the palest, difficult to spot against the pale 

sand. The older pups are various shades of grey and brown. 

With such large numbers, the animals need some 

supervision. “We’ll probably have around 400 volunteers 

this year,” Ansell explained. Friends of Horsey Seals is 

an entirely volunteer-run organisation, picking up when 

government cuts to Natural England and the Broads 

Authority meant they could no longer monitor the animals. 

“The wardens just try to keep everyone safe,” Ansell went 

on, “a seal can give a nasty bite if they feel threatened.” 

112

Norfolk 

Horsey and Winterton are beautiful beaches and quaint 

towns, even without the extraordinary wildlife. The tall 

dunes offer protection from the seaward wind for a walk 

along the Norfolk Coast Path, and the wide beaches afford 

spectacular views. On a perfect winter day, with bright 

sun but a nip in the air, the traditional and historic pub The 

Fishermans Return in Winterton is the perfect escape 

from the winter weather. With a varied food menu, including 

veggie and vegan options, and real ales on tap, the cosy 

pub even has a range of fishy-themed rooms for an idyllic 

overnight stay. 

For those wishing to stretch their legs a little further, the 

National Trust-owned Horsey Windpump makes a good 

place to leave the car (members park for free) before 

walking a circular route to the beach via The Street. Turning 

left along the beach will give you multiple opportunities 

to view the seals from the top of the dunes. Return via 

Waxham Road where you’ll find 1940s themed tea room 

Poppylands (open 10am-4pm except Tuesdays) to warm 

up and enjoy some sweet treats. 

Horsey and Winterton are both great villages for a long 

weekend or a day trip at any time of year. Summertime sees 

© Rob Coleman 

© Sarah Jenner © Sarah Jenner 

the beaches full of families enjoying fine weather, perhaps 

playing badminton or ‘catch’. Unfortunately, one popular 

beach game has caused significant harm to a number of 

seals. A ‘flying ring’ – a frisbee with a hole in the middle – 

has been the cause of serious injury to numerous animals. 

Playful younger seals see the toy in the water and curiously 

investigate. If the ring gets around its neck, it’s extremely 

difficult to get off. In the worst cases, the seal grows with 

the ring around its neck, leading to feeding and breathing 

issues and eventually worse. Jenny Hobson was on duty at 

the RSPCA hospital in East Winch when such a case came 

in. “We named her Pinkafo. She was in such a bad way 

that it was amazing she was even alive.” Horrified by what 

she’d seen, Jenny started an almost one-woman campaign 

against flying rings, with quite some success. Several shops, 

including Tesco and Pets at Home, have stopped selling 

the toys in their coastal stores and publicity is still growing. 

A sculpture of a seal, plus some great local media has 

meant that the number of incidents have fallen. With still 

more to do to ban the toys, Jenny and her husband Richard 

sailed around Britain to raise awareness nationwide. 

The grey seal colony in Norfolk represents over 40% of the 

world’s population and this spectacle is not to be missed, 

but Peter Ansell has one request: “Remember they are 

wild animals, stay at least 10 metres away and they won’t 

feel stressed.” Top tips on how to visit or get involved 

can be found on the Friends of Horsey Seals website 

friendsofhorseyseals.co.uk 

Find Hannah on Instagram @hannah_the_traveller 

113

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Norfolk 

Food&Drink 

The latest foodie news from Norwich 

Written by Zena Leech-Calton 

New openings 

Boston House is coming soon from Tim Irven, who also 

runs Bun Box in Norwich Market. Tim is going back to his 

cheffing roots with fine dining style, midway up Timberhill. 

The Little Vegan Butchers in Alexander House in 

Rose Lane isn’t open yet but plans to be up and running 

by Christmas offering veggie combos made by the 

in-house chef. 

JoJo’s street food van, which sold ice cream in front of 

Chantry Place throughout the summer, has switched to 

cheesy toasties for the colder months. Prices start from £4 

with the triple cheese being the winner for me. 

Yalm, a new food hall housed in the former Jamie’s Italian 

in the Royal Arcade, is now confirmed to be open by late 

November. It will offer all-day dining including pizza, Middle 

Eastern dishes, tacos, brunch, cheese and noodles and 

Mediterranean-style salads. 

The market has welcomed The Bodega, a New York-style 

hot and cold, triple-thick sandwich maker. With sell-out 

crowds daily, following the queue is worth the wait. 

My Makan is a Malaysian restaurant, opening soon in 

Westlegate, where you’ll be able to grab a nasi lemak 

served with samba for £11.95. It’s a new experience for 

Norwich with authentic tastes on the menu including a 

black rice pudding made with coconut milk. There’s a good 

selection of vegan dishes too. 

Castle Social is a new street food hall opening on the top 

floor of Castle Quarter. Independents announced so far are 

Hanks Dirty offering vegan fast food, The StreetFood 

Box selling dirty burgers, and Mamma Mia with Italian 

street food from the Sicily Trattoria boys. On the ground 

floor, you will find Rêve de Chocolat, a new concession 

selling Parisian-style hot chocolate. 

The Feed’s long-awaited community supermarket is 

now open on Hall Road offering value shopping and free 

essentials to those in need. Volunteers and donations are 

always appreciated. 

116

Norfolk 

Good to know 

To help during the credit crunch, four cheaper places 

to eat in Norwich are: 

The Café at St Stephen’s Church – beans on toast 

for £2.30 

7 Surrey Street Café – homemade lasagne and salad 

for £6.50 

Ron’s Fish & Chips, Norwich Market – sausage and 

chips for £3 

Logans Sandwich Bar – bumper bespoke salad 

boxes for under £5 

ZENA’S CHRISTMAS 

PUDDING 

This is surprisingly easy to make – simply weigh and 

mix, steam and save. Christmas Pudding is best made 

in October but you can make it anytime up until the 

day before and it will always taste good. I’ve been 

making this recipe for over 25 years and people simply 

love it, even the non-pudding eaters. 

My gluten-free recommendation in the city is Harry’s 

Soul Station on Adelaide Street where the whole 

menu is gluten-free including sausage rolls and cakes. 

Norwich and Norfolk Cocktail Week runs from 14 

to 23 October with nearly 100 places taking part and 

offering amazing creations including Lemon Meringue 

Pie, Fed by Wolves, and The Yorkie which is garnished 

with a chocolate bar. 

Find Zena on social media Love Norwich Food or at 

lovenorwichfood.co.uk 

Makes approx. 1kg/2lb, serves 6-8 

Ingredients: 

110g chopped prunes 

160g currants 

110g raisins 

110g sultanas 

80g plain flour 

1/2 tsp cinnamon 

1/2 tsp nutmeg 

80g breadcrumbs 

60g suet (beef or vegetarian) 

80g dark brown sugar 

1/4 strip lemon zest 

100ml/2fl oz local stout or Guinness 

1 egg – medium or large 

Pinch of salt 

• Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl using a wooden 

spoon or clean hands. 

• Spoon into a lined 1kg pudding bowl. 

• For best results, refrigerate overnight to allow the flavours 

to develop. 

• Make sure the pudding is covered with a lid or tin foil and 

steam for 2 hours (keeping the water topped up). 

• Cool in the pudding bowl. 

• Rewrap the pudding in a piece of greaseproof paper 

and cloth or cling film and store in a cool cupboard until 

Christmas Day. 

• Just as you’re serving the turkey, simply microwave for 

several minutes or steam until warm. 

117

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Norfolk 

NORFOLK NEWS & EVENTS 

News 

Platinum Trails Announced in 

Tribute to Late Queen 

Five new walking and cycling trails have been 

announced by the Norfolk Lieutenancy’s Platinum 

Jubilee organising committee. 

The Platinum Jubilee Trails combine some existing 

rights of way with completely new routes, opening up 

parts of the county which previously had no public 

access. Most of them feature increased accessibility for 

those with limited mobility or who are wheelchair users. 

The trails encompass all aspects of Norfolk landscapes 

– coastal, woodland, arable, historic and urban. 

James Bagge DL, chair of the organising committee, 

said: “We are delighted to announce the creation 

of these new trails. Originally conceived as a way of 

celebrating Her Late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee and 

her love of nature and Norfolk, they will now stand 

as a permanent tribute to her life of remarkable loyalty 

and service.” 

The Trails are The Elizabeth Way which runs from 

Heacham to King’s Lynn, The Wendling Way running 

from Gressenhall Museum to Dereham, The West Acre 

Way covering Gayton to Castle Acre, The Chet River 

Circular which takes walkers on a circuit around Loddon 

and Chedgrave, and The Eastern Maritime Way which 

is ideal for cyclists and runs from Great Yarmouth train 

station to Lowestoft train station. 

Hospitality Group Raises Funds for 

Food Hubs 

Chestnut launched its charitable foundation The Giving 

Tree in 2020 to support communities by funding, 

cooking and providing over 30,000 meals across the 

region, as well as making donations to support free 

school meals, local charities and food hubs. For more 

information about Chestnut visit chestnutgroup.co.uk 

Food & Drink 

Socius Wins AA Restaurant 

of the Year 

Burnham Market’s restaurant Socius has been 

announced as the winner of the prestigious AA Awards 

Restaurant of the Year 2022. The AA awards are one of 

the UK’s most coveted industry awards, held at the JW 

Grosvenor House in Mayfair, attended by over 1,000 

guests from hotels and restaurants across the UK. 

Owners Natalie and Dan attended the awards with 

members of their team. “This is such an incredible 

achievement. We are extremely humbled and grateful 

that the hard work that we all put in each and every day 

has been recognised not only by our customers, but by 

our industry peers,” said Dan. 

A team from Chestnut, East Anglia’s fastest-growing 

hospitality business, has cycled in excess of 500km to 

raise much needed funding for the food hubs within 

the region. 

Beginning at The Carpenters Arms in Great Wilbraham 

and finishing at The Weeping Willow in Barrow, the 

team visited each of the 16 properties within the 

Chestnut portfolio across Cambridgeshire, Essex, 

Norfolk and Suffolk. 

The initiative aims to raise £50,000 to help Nourishing 

Norfolk feed thousands by seed-funding work at 

a grassroots level directly into local communities, 

providing access to affordable, healthy food. 

Since opening in February 2018, Socius has received 

other notable industry awards and recognition. In 2018 

they were included within the Michelin Guide and Good 

Food Guide and were awarded two AA rosettes. They 

were also nominated for the Best Newcomer at the 

2019 Catey’s Awards. 

The restaurant has a unique concept, offering guests a 

modern, British version of tapas where food is served on 

small plates and designed to share. 

sociusnorfolk.co.uk 

Local Chippy shortlisted for Top 

Takeaway of the Year 

French’s Fish Shop in Wells-next-to-Sea has been 

named as finalist in the Top 20 Takeaway of the Year 

category in the National Fish and Chip Awards. 

The 20 finalists were selected following an extensive 

judging process of the top 40 fish and chip takeaways, 

which were announced last month. 

120

Norfolk 

The winner will be announced at The National Fish and 

Chip Awards, hosted by The National Federation of Fish 

Friers (NFFF), on 28 February 2023 at the Park Plaza 

Westminster Bridge. 

Andrew Crook, President at the NFFF, said, “We received 

such a high standard of applications for this category, 

making it a very difficult yet rewarding judging process. 

The top 20 really demonstrate a strong commitment 

to the fish and chip industry and to the British public. 

Congratulations to everyone involved, this is a massive 

achievement in itself!” 

Norfolk Pub is One of England’s 

Greatest 

splendour for some years. When Braka acquired it, “I 

stripped everything back to its bones,” he says. “I wanted 

people to feel like they were walking into another world.” 

Great Pubs of England published by Prestel is available in 

hardback RRP £35. Find out more about The Gunton Arms 

at theguntonarms.co.uk 


Green Light for ROARR! Expansion 

© Horst A. Friedrichs 

ROARR! is set to embark on the biggest development in the 

Park’s history, after being granted full permission to create 

a new four-acre interactive play-themed area within the 

existing 85-acre park. 

The immersive area will be themed around the 

internationally renowned animated TV series 

Gigantosaurus. Produced by Cyber Group Studios, the 

series is based on Jonny Duddle’s book published by 

Bonnier Books UK Ltd, which has sold over 600,000 

copies worldwide. 

The Gunton Arms, a traditional pub set in an historic park 

near Cromer, has been lauded in a new book, Great Pubs 

of England by acclaimed photographer Horst A. Friedrichs 

and travel journalist Stuart Husband. 

The book charts the history of England’s illustrious pub 

culture, capturing their idiosyncratic glory and infinite 

variety. Whittling it down to 33 of the country’s finest and 

most distinctive inns, the authors explore the variety of 

pubs the country has and the traditions that have kept them 

going for nearly 500 years, all of which share the same timehonoured 

purpose: to offer the warmest of welcomes and 

to lift the spirits. 

Designed to encourage exploratory and sensory family 

play, there will be several interactive concepts for families 

to discover together – some featuring well-loved characters 

from the show including the energetic Rocky, Bill, the 

inventive Mazu and Tiny who loves having fun. 

Inspired by the visual and colourful designs featured within 

the TV programme and the stunning natural savannah 

setting – which is home to a host of prehistoric insects and 

creatures and set against the iconic backdrop of the fiery 

volcano – the new land will be surrounded by a vibrant 

landscape of grassland, trees and planting, with instantly 

recognisable flowers from Gigantosaurus. 

Work is due to begin in January 2023 with the first phase 

set to open to the public in 2024. 

roarrdinosauradventure.co.uk 

Of The Gunton Arms, Stuart Husband writes: “The Gunton 

sits on the edge of the thousand-acre Gunton Park 

estate, which Braka, who lives in a former observatory just 

down the road, has been helping restore to its Georgian 

121

OPEN ALL YEAR 

ROUND 

Visit our 

Website 

to Pre-Book 

your tickets 

www.thrigbyhall.com 

THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH 

NR29 3DR 

% 01493 369477 

www.thrigbyhall.com 

The place 

to visit

Norfolk 

Luminate Sandringham 

Carols by Candlelight 

16 December 

The Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Unthank Road, 

Norwich NR2 2PA 

With everything from Gregorian Chant to ‘Have yourself a 

merry little Christmas’, there’s something for everyone in 

the annual Carols by Candlelight performance. Be sure to 

get your singing voices ready, as there will be audience 

participation too. As well as a reward of a lovely glass of 

mulled wine and a mince pie in the interval! 

sjbcathedral.org.uk 

WHAT’S ON 


Sandringham, Norfolk PE35 6EN 

Nestled deep within the Sandringham Estate awaits a 

spectacular illuminated trail, full of wonder and intrigue to 

delight and enthral your senses. As darkness descends, 

take the enchanting journey through the Royal Parkland 

at Sandringham. Immerse yourself in the mesmerising 

mile-long trail with stunning lighting elements and 

fabulous light play, all set to ambient music. A timeless 

experience to be enjoyed by all, young and old alike. 

Tickets must be pre-booked online in advance. 

sandringhamestate.co.uk 

Hockwold Christmas Fayre 

4 December 

Hockwold Hall, Station Road, Hockwold cum Wilton 

IP26 4HZ 

A quintessential Christmas shopping experience with a 

wide range of crafts, food, drink and gifts on offer. With 

exhibitors from all over the country, live entertainment, 

samples to try and a vast range of activities, it’s an event 

for the whole family to enjoy. With themed tents and 

stands, the event offers tasty and enticing items for 

purchase to get you into the holiday mood. 

hockwoldchristmasfayre.co.uk 

Antiques & Collectors Fair 

18 December 

Hemsby Village Hall & Social Club, Waters Lane, 

Hemsby, Great Yarmouth NR29 4NH 

Holiday visitors and residents are invited to this popular 

event where you can unearth prized finds to add 

something special to your home, collection, or heart. 

Come and enjoy the thrill of the hunt, whether it’s for 

a specific item or a rummage through stalls to find 

a precious item. The fair features top dealers selling 

small furniture items, porcelain, glass, gold and silver, 

ephemera, coins, militaria, jewellery and paintings along 

with stalls offering everyday collectables and vintage. 

Come and discover the lasting quality of beautiful 

objects. It’s a huge treasure hunt... join the fun, you 

never know what you might find! 

Historic Alleys, Lanes and Passages 

23 December 

Norwich 

Discover the stories of Norwich’s historic alleys, lanes 

and passages on this tour which starts at The Forum and 

ends outside the Maddermarket Theatre. Walk down 

the former Esperanto Way. Hear stories of Hampshire 

Hog Yard and Ninham’s, Rigby and Watts Courts. See 

Gybson’s Conduit. Find out what JB Priestley thought of 

Norwich and Lady Eastlake thought of Jane Eyre. Pass 

great medieval churches and rare thatched buildings, 

discover a great Victorian singing teacher and why 

Father Ignatius caused such a furore, and much more. 

pauldicksontours.co.uk 



123

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01502 714512 | 48 Puddingmoor, Beccles NR34 9PL 

www.quayside-conservatories.co.uk

Suffolk

Wheelchair 

Friendly 

Days Out in 

Suffolk 

Whether you enjoy delving into local history, 

savouring the stunning seascapes or love 

nothing more than engaging with one of the 

county’s many attractions, there is no denying 

that Suffolk is one of the finest treasures 

that Great Britain has to offer. With so many 

inviting options available locally, what are the 

best days out for those who use a wheelchair 

or have limited mobility? Here’s a handful of 

some of the best places to enjoy, especially on 

two wheels. 

Constable By Chariot 

What could exude the spirit of Suffolk more than a scene 

straight from the paintbrush of John Constable himself? A 

visit to the famous Flatford and Bridge Cottage is an idyllic 

way to spend a bright and mild winter day. Boasting a 

dedicated disabled-access car park nearby, the Constable 

Exhibition, tearoom and gift shop is such a delight and a 

really peaceful paradise of paintings. Additionally, many 

of the routes to this living scene are tarmacked and 

made more accessible aided by a powered wheelchair. 

The Cottage itself has level entrances and the two lower 

rooms are open to the public. For those with limited 

mobility, there are also chairs available. Constable awaits. 


Africa Alive! 

An ideal day out with the family, a trip to the local Africa 

Alive! zoological reserve at Kessingland is a wonderful 

way of engaging with the exotic animals that call Suffolk 

home. With many accessible routes through the reserve 

and viewing platforms designed to enable wheelchair 

users to enjoy a glimpse of lions, tigers, bears oh my, 

there are also wheelchairs and scooters available for 

hire, seating available and special free entry for carers 

accompanying a registered disabled guest. 

zsea.org 

Suffolk’s Aviation Heritage Centre 

If you are looking for an enjoyable day out with a little 

more history, then why not try the Norfolk and Suffolk 

Aviation Museum at Flixton? The museum is located 

within hangars, so access is on one wheelchair-friendly 

level with free admission for everyone. Set along the 

Norfolk and Suffolk border in the pretty area of Waveney 

Valley, the Aviation Museum boasts memorabilia and 

aircraft displayed both inside and outside. Adding to a 

slice of Suffolk’s wartime history, thousands of aircraft 

made crash landings in Suffolk alone and volunteers 

at the museum have successfully located many of the 

crash sites. The result of their hard work is that many of 

the artefacts on display are from distressed aircraft that 

crashed in the county. Don’t forget to check the website 

for opening times during the winter period. 

aviationmuseum.net 

Written by Metta Brash 

126

Escape Rooms 

With the unpredictable British weather, it is always good 

to have some indoor options to enjoy especially in winter. 

A great way to exercise the little grey cells is through a 

rigorous escape room challenge. Are you a fan of puzzles or 

brain teasers, and would you like the chance to have a day 

out the whole family can enjoy? Suffolk has a varied array of 

different escape rooms to try, many of which are accessible. 

For instance, the Ipswich Escape Rooms and the Evidence 

Room in Bury St Edmunds both have special rooms that 

can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their mobility. 

Combining puzzles with an immersive storyline, the aim of 

the game is to work in a group to solve puzzling plots and 

regain your freedom! 

The UK’s Only Food Museum 

Wintertime is a wonderful celebration of the good produce 

that the year’s hard work has brought to the table. Formerly 

the Museum of East Anglian Life, the Suffolk Food Museum 

delves into the history of our food and the British heritage 

surrounding it, from where our food comes from to a 

celebration of the farm to fork approach. The Food Museum 

has plenty to see and do, from the historic Abbot’s Hall 

which is accessible by wheelchair and has a lift to the upper 

floors, to wheelchair-friendly facilities, good parking and 

toilets and special routes throughout the site. 

foodmuseum.org.uk 

The museum is located within hangars, so 

access is on one wheelchair-friendly level 

with free admission for everyone 

127

PICTURE BOOKS FOR ALL - EXHIBITION AND CURATOR TOURS 

Ipswich, Fri 21 October 2022 - Sun 8 January 2023. 

Founded in 1818, W.S. Cowell were general printers that re-invented themselves as progressive art 

printers during the late 1930s and 1940s. They worked with leading illustrators and artists including 

Kathleen Hale, Eric Ravilious, Edward Ardizzone and Pablo Picasso. The exhibition will chart the 

international importance of W.S. Cowell through a selection of books, prints, original artwork and 

journals. Free admission to exhibition. Curator tour ticket: £5/£4 concessions. Booking required. 

CHRISTMAS MARKET AT THE HOLD 

Ipswich, Sat 3 December. 10am - 4pm. 

Come along to our first festive market and 

stock up on some Christmas gifts from 

a range of local independent retailers. 

Free entry. 

JOIN US FOR FESTIVE FAMILY FUN 

IN IPSWICH, BURY ST EDMUNDS 

AND LOWESTOFT! 

LET’S GET CRAFTY: CHRISTMAS 


A selection of fun, festive family crafts. 

£5 per child. Booking required. 

CHRISTMAS CRAFTERNOON 

Lowestoft, Fri 16 December. 1pm – 3pm. 

Enjoy an afternoon of Victorian inspired 

crafts and a mince pie. Free entry. 

Booking required. 

FATHER CHRISTMAS AT THE HOLD 


Be sure to visit our pop-up grotto. 

Suitable for ages 4-11. Children receive a 

gift suitable for all. Booking required. 


Lowestoft, Wed 21 December. 

10.30am - 12.30pm. 

Come and enjoy a selection of festive 

family crafts. Free entry. Booking required. 

CINEMA CLUB: ELF (FILM RATING: PG) 

Ipswich, Sun 11 December. 1.30pm – 3pm. 

A free screening of this Christmas classic. 

Please book in advance to guarantee seats. 

Grab a deal and avoid queues by booking 

a cinema snack box when reserving seats. 


Bury St Edmunds, Sat 17 December. 

2pm - 4pm. 

Join us for some Christmas crafts inspired by 

our collections. (Suitable for 5 - 11 year-olds). 

£2 per child. Booking required. 

@suffolkarchives l www.suffolkarchives.co.uk/whatson

Suffolk 

Food&Drink 

Chef Interview: Lilian Hiw 

Private Chef and Cookery Teacher 

Growing up in Singapore, Lilian was inspired by the 

bold, fragrant and exotic international food culture. She 

has worked in some of the top hotels in Asia and was 

Vice President of the prestigious Asian restaurant chain, 

Tung Lok Group. Classically trained, Lilian is known for 

demystifying Asian cookery and for generously sharing tips 

and trade secrets. 

What inspired you to become a chef? 

I started cooking very young. I grew up in Singapore, 

helping my parents sell noodles and congee at their 

hawker centre food stall. A hawker centre has many food 

stalls selling dishes from different countries. You can have 

Western, Thai, Indian and Vietnamese, so you eat like a king. 

Where did you train? Tell us more 

about your culinary background. 

After secondary school, I told my parents that I wanted to go 

into the hospitality industry. 

I went to a hotel and 

catering training 

school and worked 

in five-star hotels as 

an apprentice in all 

departments – front 

of house, back of 

house, housekeeping, 

stewarding, 

accounting and the 

kitchen. The school 

wanted to 

bring the 

École 

hôtelière de Lausanne School from Switzerland to start 

a hospitality management school in Singapore and they 

approached me to become one of their trainers. So the 

Swiss trained me and then I trained the local people. 

What are the most memorable moments 

of your career so far? 

I was headhunted by Raffles Singapore and joined them 

as Catering Manager. In the Long Bar, customers are 

encouraged to chuck the shells of monkey nuts on the 

floor so there is a crunch, crunch, crunch as you walk. More 

recently, I was delighted to win Private Chef of the Year in 

the London & South-East Prestige Awards for 2020/21 and 

2021/22. 

When and why did you set up Lilian’s 

Kitchen? 

When I was working in Raffles, I met an English gentleman. 

We married and we moved to Bury St Edmunds 28 years 

ago. We love it here, it’s such a foodie town with lots of 

restaurants. I continued my teaching as a lecturer in the 

hospitality department at West Suffolk College and then, 

after taking a career break to look after my son, I set up 

Lilian’s Kitchen in 2017. 

130

Suffolk 

Lilian’s 

Tandoori King 

Prawns 

Prep time: 10-15 minutes 

Cook time: 15-20 minutes 

Serves 2 main course portions 

Describe your cookery classes. 

I run a cookery school with public classes teaching Asian 

cookery and also private cookery lessons at your home. 

I group my classes according to the country by either 

ingredients or taste profile and I also share the customs and 

the culture, so the classes are more than just cooking. A lot 

of times, Asian recipes are as long as an arm and half a leg! 

The philosophy of my classes is everyone can cook Asian. 

My recipes are short, and I will show you how to make goodtasting, 

authentic food with readily available ingredients. 

What can guests expect at one of your 

private dining experiences? 

As a private chef, I will go to clients’ homes and organise 

an Asian dining experience. I use the original Singapore 

Sling recipe from Raffles which I shake fresh and serve as 

a welcome drink with Asian canapés. When everyone sits 

down, I will bring their senses to Asia by offering them a 

lemongrass essential oil scented tower, and then they will 

have dinner. We look after guests, and they are pampered. 

That is my role, and my team is very good. 

What does hospitality mean to you? 

My heritage food is my passion so I love cooking it, I love 

eating it and I love sharing it. I am a feeder. Everything that 

comes out of the kitchen, I will introduce and present as a 

dish and, if there is a story to tell it will be there. 

What are your future plans for Lilian’s 

Kitchen? 

Next year, I have a new class – Valentine’s Date Night. With 

a lot of couples, one likes to cook and one likes to eat so 

it’s a practical interactive cookery session where you cook 

with your loved one. Then, as you eat, I share stories and tips 

while cooking Kung Pao Prawns to celebrate Valentine’s 

Day with you. I’m also starting to do live theatre dining 

where you come with friends or family and I cook for you, tell 

you stories and serve you food. My sister said to me, “You’re 

going to be 60 next year, why are you speeding up when 

you should be slowing down?”. But life is too exciting to be 

slowing down! 

Ingredients: 

2 tsp tandoori spice 

4 tsp Greek yoghurt, full fat 

salt, to taste (see recipe notes) 

300g raw king prawns, shelled 

1 tbsp butter, melted 

lemon wedges to serve 

Method: 

• Mix prawns with yoghurt, spice and salt and leave 

to marinate for 5 minutes. 

• Skewer prawns onto metal or bamboo skewers 

(see recipe notes). 

• Brush with butter and cook on a barbecue or 

under a grill (see recipe notes), or panfry without 

the skewers. 

• Serve with lemon wedges, leaf salad and rice. 

Recipe notes: 

• Taste the tandoori spice before adding salt as 

different brands have varying amounts of salt. 

• If using bamboo skewers, soak them first for 10 

minutes in warm water to prevent burning. 

• If cooking under the grill, cover the exposed 

bamboo skewers with foil to stop them burning. 

• You can replace prawns with cubes of salmon 

or chicken. When making tandoori chicken, 

marinate overnight to allow the seasoning to 

penetrate the meat. 

You can find out more about Lilian’s Kitchen or book a class 

at lilianskitchen.co.uk 

131

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Suffolk 

SUFFOLK NEWS & EVENTS 

News 

Norwich Theatre Partnership 

with RSC 

Norwich Theatre has become an Associate Partner 

Theatre of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). The 

formal partnership will provide more opportunities to 

enjoy world-class Shakespeare productions in Norfolk, 

plus forge even stronger bonds to engage with schools 

and community groups across the region. 

A key objective of RSC is to combine its successful 

national tours of work with local engagement projects. 

Over the past few years, Norwich Theatre has welcomed 

many RSC productions, including Romeo and Juliet, 

and the very special A Midsummer Night’s Dream which 

had a strong local community cast. 

As part of the new partnership, Norwich Theatre will join 

the Associate Schools Programme with The Wensum 

Trust which is the Lead Associate School and will offer 

young people experiences of Shakespeare and live 

theatre by providing resources for teachers, workshops 

for pupils, and small-scale shows called 

First Encounters. 

artist Jitka Schejbalova with help from volunteers and 

local children who use the park, including some of the 

original young artists. The colourful 100-metre hand 

painted artwork adds to the recent renovations and new 

play equipment in the park, to further encourage local 

residents to enjoy the new space. 

Daisy Lees, Director of Art Eat Events said, “Art Eat 

congratulates Jitka Schejbalova for an excellent design, 

staying loyal to the children’s drawings and keeping 

spirits high during painting.” More information and 

images can be found at @arteatevents on Facebook, 

Instagram and Twitter. 

Theatre Royal announces New Life 

Patron 

Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds has announced that 

Mrs Patricia Thompson, CBE, is to become their newest 

Life Patron. She is the first Life Patron to be appointed 

at Theatre Royal in 10 years and joins others including 

Dame Judi Dench, DBE and Timothy West, CBE. 

Owen Calvert-Lyons, CEO and Artistic Director at 

Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds said, “This is the first 

time in ten years that we have offered a Life Patron role 

at Theatre Royal, which shows the significance of these 

roles. Patricia Thompson is a great champion of the Arts 

and has played a key role in supporting UK theatres over 

many years.” 

New Art Eat Mural at Maple Park 

Art Eat was 

invited by Ipswich 

Borough Council 

to commission an 

artist to develop 

a large-scale 

new mural for 

Maple Park in 

Ipswich, inspired 

by artwork 

created in 2020 

by children from 

Handford Hall 

Primary School. 

The painting 

was completed 

over 12 days 

in October by 

Ipswich-based 

Czech Republic 

For over 200 years Theatre Royal has brought joy to 

the town of Bury St Edmunds by bringing the best live 

theatre to their Regency stage. Theatre Royal Bury St 

Edmunds is a vibrant 202-year-old theatre, built in 1819 

and restored to its original Regency design in 2007, with 

a campaign backed by Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Judi 

Dench, Timothy West and many others. 

Winter Special at Waldegraves 

Waldegraves Family Holiday Park is offering a two-night 

midweek stay in one of their Gold Grade holiday homes 

134

Suffolk 

for just £99 with breakfast included giving guests the 

opportunity to discover the stunning coastal landscape and 

sample a slice of island life. 

The holiday homes comfortably accommodate 6 people, 

with a master bedroom and two twin bedrooms plus a 

pull-out sofa bed in the lounge and two bathrooms. With 

full central heating and double glazing throughout and 

an additional fireplace in the lounge, you’re guaranteed a 

cosy stay. The offer, which is subject to availability, is valid 

from 1-30 November, 1-14 December, 10-14 January, 

21-28 February and 1-31 March. For more details visit 

waldegraves.co.uk 

Food & Drink 

Paddy & Scott’s Crowned Suffolk 

Business of the Year 

The Perfect Pairing for Bruha and 

Dough&co 

Bruha and Dough&co have 

come together to celebrate 

their East Anglian heritage 

by creating a dual-branded 

pale ale, available across all 

16 Dough&co sites. 

Bruha is renowned for 

producing clean, clear and 

crisp beers and the new 

330ml Lager and Session 

Pale will be no different. The 

new beers are made using the best-quality heritage malted 

barley from the region to create a wonderfully balanced, 

light and refreshing ale to enhance Dough&co’s freshly 

made pizzas. 

Dough&co’s authentic and Italian sourced pizzas are made 

using the finest ingredients and baked in wood-fired ovens. 

Since opening the first Dough&co restaurant in 2018, the 

brand has continued to expand its reach in East Anglia and 

beyond. The new joint-branded beer will be available for 

consumers to drink in or take out across all sites. 


The Jockey Club Live presents Bastille 

Suffolk coffee brand, Paddy & Scott’s, has been 

named Business of the Year in the prestigious Suffolk 

Business Awards. 

The judging panel singled out Paddy & Scott’s as a ‘truly 

Suffolk business’ and ‘a worthy winner’. “Paddy & Scott’s 

has fabulous values, not just in relation to sourcing and 

growing its own beans, but also to its staff ethos,” judges 

said. “They are not simply focused on profitability, they 

genuinely care about the industry, and the impact they 

can have both here and where the coffee is farmed. Social 

impact is totally ingrained in the business as much 

as the quality of their coffee and the service their 

customers receive.” 

Run by Newsquest, publishers of the East Anglian Daily 

Times and Ipswich Star, the theme of this year’s awards was 

growth as companies looked to new opportunities against 

a highly challenging economic backdrop. 

Since launching in 2007, Paddy & Scott’s has funded its 

own farming project in Kenya which supports the local 

coffee-growing community with jobs, equipment and 

education. Alongside a retail range of coffee products, it 

also operates a number of Paddy & Scott’s cafés across the 

country. paddyandscotts.shop 

Brit award-winning, multiplatinum 

selling, billionstreamed 

Bastille will be 

making their Newmarket 

Nights debut on Friday 30 

June 2023. 

The show will be part of a 

series celebrating the tenth 

anniversary of the band’s 

debut album Bad Blood, 

the biggest-selling digital 

album of 2013, giving fans 

the opportunity to hear 

the album played live in its 

entirety alongside other 

fan favourites. With over 

11 million records sold, 6 

UK Top 40 singles, and over 1.5 billion video views, Bastille 

continues to be one of the world’s most streamed bands. 

Newmarket Nights returned in full force in 2022, with 

headline performances from household names including 

The Script, Anne-Marie and Paloma Faith. The season 

concluded with a sold-out set from Pete Tong & the 

Symphony Orchestra. The Jockey Club Live events 

continue to be renowned for combining an electric evening 

at the races with a spectacular evening concert in an 

informal and relaxed open-air setting. 

Tickets for Bastille at Newmarket Racecourses are on sale 

now at thejockeyclublive.co.uk 

© Sarah Louise Bennett 

135

Advertisement 

Downsizing to a Churchill Retirement Living 

apartment means less maintenance, lower costs, and 

more time for your loved ones... 

Downsizing to a brand new Churchill 

Retirement Living apartment with 

fewer maintenance worries and lower dayto-day 

running costs could be the best 

decision you make this winter, so what’s 

stopping you? 

Churchill has several developments in the 

East of England which are selling out fast. 

Each one can offer not just a brand new 

apartment, but an independent lifestyle, 

with any external maintenance taken care 

of for you, and all covered by an annual 

service charge that’s easy to budget 

for. With energy costs on the increase, 

it makes sense to live in a well-insulated 

property with energy efficient appliances, 

fixtures and fittings, all of which adds up 

to a lower carbon footprint and lower 

energy bills for you. 

You’ll have your own front door and 

privacy when you want it, with friendship 

and a sense of community close at hand 

whenever you choose to spend time 

socialising in the warm and welcoming 

Owners’ Lounge. If you want to try before 

you buy, Churchill can offer prospective 

purchasers the opportunity to enjoy an 

overnight stay in one of its fully furnished 

Experience Apartments. 

For a taster of what the Churchill 

lifestyle is like, why not visit one of these 

developments near you: 

• Heath Lodge in Pinner 

Last few apartments remaining 

• Moorhouse Lodge in Huntingdon 

Only 1 apartment remaining 

• Dovehouse Lodge in Hitchin 

• Weavers Lodge in Haverhill 

You’re welcome to drop in any time, or 

attend one of the regular social events 

taking place at these developments 

throughout the year. These events are 

the ideal opportunity for you to meet 

the friendly team, ask all your practical 

questions, and have a good look at the 

apartments and lifestyle available. You’ll 

also meet other apartment Owners and 

hear their honest views about the lifestyle 

they’re already enjoying. Most will tell you 

they wish they had done it sooner! 

To find out more, call 0800 086 1600 

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Suffolk 

Co-Op Juniors Christmas Spectacular! 

2022 

2-11 December 

Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape Maltings, Snape, 

IP17 1SP 

A talented cast of almost 100, along with a live orchestra, 

are back to celebrate the holiday season in this brandnew 

festive extravaganza for 2022. Packed full of 800 

dazzling costumes, a beautifully designed stage set, 

magical stage effects and non-stop singing and dancing, 

Christmas Spectacular! is perfect for the whole family. 

coopjuniors.co.uk 

Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Farmyard 

& Craft Fair 

9-11 December 

The Suffolk Punch Trust, Woodbridge Walk, Hollesley 

IP12 3LA 

Come and see Santa on his sleigh pulled by Wrendolph 

his Suffolk Punch horse before meeting him in his 

magical Christmas Grotto. Santa will meet, greet and 

give each child a Christmas goody bag containing 

things to do and a lovely horse-themed gift. The 

Christmas Farmyard will be full of lovely animals waiting 

to say hello. Back in the café each child will receive a 

babyccino. £10/child to include two accompanying 

adults. On Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December there 

will also be a Christmas Craft Fair. Free entry to the café, 

shop and craft fair. 

thesuffolkpunchtrust.co.uk 

Happy New Year 2023 at East Anglia 

Transport Museum 

WHAT’S ON 

Christmas Market on the Hill 

3 December 

Wickham Market, Woodbridge, IP13 

Enjoy an afternoon of Christmas festivities and shopping 

as Wickham Market switch on their Christmas lights. 

Taking place on the historic square on The Hill, with 

festive crafts and gifts, community, charity and food stalls. 

Local shops, Café 46 and Tea Pot Café will be open. Hot 

street food will be available from the Flaming Fryer and 

the Potsford Farm stall. Father Christmas will visit, and 

children will decorate the tree. Enjoy a mobile pipe organ, 

carol singing and Christmas tree light up after midday. 

Free parking at the Primary School, Dallinghoo Road. Two 

other car parks nearby. 

visitwickhammarket.co.uk 

Riddlequest: Escape Game at 

Sutton Hoo 

1 January 

Chapel Road, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft NR33 8BL 

Are you fed up with tinsel & turkey? Have you seen 

quite enough of the relatives? Will you scream if you 

see another cracker or paper hat? Then come along 

for the last chance this winter to ride on the East 

Anglia Transport Museum’s vintage vehicle fleet. The 

museum will be running a free bus service to Lowestoft 

as well as the museum’s attractions; a great end to the 

year’s festivities. 

eatransportmuseum.co.uk/events 

9-10 December 

Tranmer House, Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge IP12 3DJ 

Can you return a mysterious object to its rightful place in 

an exciting new escape game at Sutton Hoo? Complete 

challenges along the way, including solving real early 

medieval riddles to unlock the secrets of the past. Can 

you complete the task in one hour to return an object 

formerly belonging to King Raedelwulf? 

nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo 



137

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 

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ASK FOR YOUR FREE 

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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 



Diabetes 

Everyday Eating 

“I want to be told what I can eat – not what I can’t”. 

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HELPLINE: 01604 622837 

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Understanding 

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East Life Winter 2022

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