The independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters locally
November 2024
THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE
PLUG PULLED TWO SWIMMING POOLS TO CLOSE THIS YEAR
LIGHTING UP OUR TOWNS PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS LAUNCHES
IT’S PANTO TIME FIND YOUR PERFECT CHRISTMAS SHOW
ART ON SCREEN HOW TO SEE VAN GOGH EXHIBITION LOCALLY
SEASONAL DINING BOOK YOUR FESTIVE GET-TOGETHERS NOW
WELCOME
What’s inside this issue
05-13 y Briefing
The latest news stories from around the area, including pool closures
24-26 y Panto guide
Sleeping Beauty, Dick Whittington, Aladdin, Cinders? Make your choice!
21-23 y Christmas in our towns
Your guide to the big lights switch-on events in our high streets
30-35 y Food & drink
New openings plus great local venues for Christmas dining
17 y TRAVEL NEWS: What you need to know if you’re travelling to Europe
19 y BUSINESS NEWS: Book your free place for Herts Growth Hub event
Front cover images (clockwise from top) Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers, coming to a screen near you (p28); The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, new film out this month (p25); TV naturalist Iolo Williams appears at The Spotlight in Hoddesdon (p27); Paddington in Peru hits the big screen (p27); Hoddesdon Loves Christmas is on Sunday 24th November (p21 and 23).
ABOUT AXIS
Axis magazine was founded in 2003 by two award-winning former local newspaper editors who still own and run the business today.
We are the independent, intelligent guide to everything that matters in and around eastern Hertfordshire and we aim to provide a concise, useful guide to local life.
Our editorial content is targeted towards readers’ interests, to maximise readership and gain the best exposure for our advertisers. The magazine is delivered to homes and businesses in selected areas and copies can also be picked up free from venues across the area.
CONTACT US
Axis Magazine, Lyric House, 6b St Andrew St, Hertford SG14 1JA 01992 500198 info@axispublications.co.uk axismagazine.co.uk
PUBLISHERS: Aaron Gransby & Justine Woods
DIGITAL EDITION: Read us online at axismagazine.co.uk or issuu.com (search axis magazine)
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Call us on 01992 500198 with card details to start a subscription or send a cheque made payable to Axis Publications Ltd to the address in the Contact Us section above.
ADVERTISE
Here at Axis we look to build long-lasting relationships with local businesses that understand the benefits of advertising to an affluent and intelligent audience on a regular, ongoing basis.
To find out more about promoting your business with us please call 01992 500198
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BRIEFING
Fanshawe and Leventhorpe swimming pools to close before Christmas after funding ends
Two public swimming pools in Ware and Sawbridgeworth are to close their doors for good just before Christmas.
Both Fanshawe Pool and Gym in Ware and Leventhorpe Pool in Sawbridgeworth have been run under hybrid arrangements for some years and received significant funding from the Government’s Education Skills Funding Agency. A decision by the Government to withdraw that funding has led to the decision to close them from Monday 23rd December. Both sites are actually owned by local schools – Chauncy School in Ware and Leventhorpe School in Sawbridgeworth, but they are managed by Everyone Active on behalf of East Herts Council. They are used by the schools for their pupils and by the public. All four organisations, as well as Hertfordshire County Council which is responsible for education, had wanted to keep the facilities open but in a joint statement they said the closure has “become inevitable due to the lack of central government funding, associated operating and ongoing maintenance costs, as well as the viability of the sites.” They said they would be prepared to revisit the decision
should significant funding become available.
The Government money that had come from the Department for Education was to cover running and maintenance costs.
Cllr Sarah Hopewell, East Herts Council’s executive member for wellbeing, said: “The loss of this money was significant, and not something either the schools, district or county council can cover with existing finances. Unfortunately, current funding for schools is extremely limited and heavily ringfenced for education.
“Both schools have been in discussion with relevant Government departments to see whether there were any [funding] opportunities available, and councillors have also lobbied our MP [Josh Dean] to raise our concerns.”
In a letter to parents on 25th October, Steve Walton, the headteacher of Chauncy School, said he knew the decision “will be greeted with sadness in our local community and the closure will affect all users,” adding: “We are disappointed that we find ourselves in this position. It is a decision we are forced to make given the withdrawal of the annual grant from the DfE.”
These will now be the third
swimming pool closures in East Herts within a year, after Ward Freman Pool in Buntingford was also forced to shut. East Herts is currently supporting a local group trying to reopen Ward Freman but has met with limited success so far. The news makes East Herts’ multi-million pound investments in improving both Grange Paddocks in Bishop’s Stortford and Hartham Leisure Centre in Hertford in recent years even more significant, bearing in mind that they are well placed to attract former users of Leventhorpe and Fanshawe. Both are owned by the council and operated for them by Everyone Active.
Bigger children’s section a bonus as new Ware Library opens
The new Ware Library opened its doors last month, just a few hundred yards down the High Street from its old home. The refurbished library, in the building that was formerly home to Peacocks, is on a single level, so more accessible than its previous home, with improved spaces for both public and staff, new furniture, carpets and flooring, energy-efficient lighting, heating and insulation. As well as the fresh look it also has an expanded children’s section.
The staff worked to move 12,000 books
as well as computers and other equipment in time for its opening on Monday 14th October.
It will be open from 10am to 5.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, from 2-5.30pm on Wednesdays and from 10am to 5pm on Saturdays. The library will be closed on Thursdays and Sundays.
The former library building, an historic former maltster’s house, is the subject of a planning application to turn it into flats and build three new houses on part of its land.
Fanshawe Pool and Gym in Ware will close in December. Below, Cllr Sarah Hopewell of East Herts Council
The new library has an expanded children’s section
BEAM and Lea Wharf receive seal of approval in Civic Society awards
They are two of the biggest building projects to take place in Hertford for many a year, and neither has been without controversy, but both BEAM (formerly Hertford Theatre) and Lea Wharf (formerly Bircherley Green shopping centre) have proved a hit with the county town’s architectural afficionados.
The two developments were declared joint winners of Hertford Civic Society’s 2024 awards. The society reviews the major new buildings or renovations every few years, with the winning site receiving a plaque for public display.
The 2024 edition of the awards assessed 16 recent projects, shortlisting seven which included two
housing developments, Blakemore Manor and Granary and Chapel, as well as Hartham Leisure Centre, Scott House in Hagsdell Road and Margaux’s in Market Street.
Ultimately, BEAM and Lea Wharf emerged as joint winners, with Scott House and Margaux’s receiving commendations.
The judging panel said the design and detail of the two winners had had “a very positive impact on Hertford, both visually and doubtless for their users.”
Lea Wharf in particular, they said, “has opened up a lost riverside area of great charm” while BEAM “looks well placed to do something similar – it will enhance access to Hertford Castle, its gardens and streams.”
We will seize and destroy illegally ridden E-scooters say Hertfordshire Police
To many, they are one of the most annoying innovations of recent years, and the subject of an increasing number of complaints to the police – E-scooters. Perhaps paradoxically, it is illegal to ride electronic scooters on the streets but it is not illegal to sell them. However, an increasing number of complaints about people riding them on public roads and pavements led Hertfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards to raise the issue during his monthly accountability and performance meeting with soon-toretire Chief Constable Charlie Hall. Mr Ash-Edwards said E-scooters have driven “probably the largest amount of correspondence into my office over recent months compared to any other topic.”
He added: “There are particular community concerns from residents about the use of these scooters in town centres, specifically from blind
people and those with disabilities, around the impact of people whizzing around town centres.”
The Chief Constable assured Mr Ash-Edwards that E-scooters being illegally ridden were being confiscated and destroyed by the police. Mr Hall said the police have already dealt with both cases of people being injured falling off their scooters and where other members of the public had been hurt by people riding them.
He said the police’s broad approach was to educate people to comply with the law but added that so far this year 22 E-scooters had been seized. Last year the number was over 30 and the year before it was 30.
Mr Ash-Edwards agreed that the starting point should be to educate people about the law but added that he was pleased that this could also lead to enforcement and seizures where appropriate.
Bishop’s Stortford’s recycling centre is currently closed for a period of around eight weeks while owner Hertfordshire County Council carries out major improvement works which will significantly increase its capacity.
Once the work is completed, there will be more than twice the current number of parking spaces available and an increase in recycling
containers, helping to improve the capacity and reduce queueing.
The centre closed on Saturday 27th October.
The nearest alternatives during the closure period for Bishop’s Stortford residents are Ware Recycling Centre in Westmill Road and Hoddesdon Recycling Centre on the Pindar Road industrial estate.
It is illegal to ride E-scooters on the road in the UK
Southern Maltings sale on hold as East Herts auctions other assets to raise funds
East Herts Council has agreed to sell off four parcels of land it owns at auction to raise funds, but it has put off deciding whether to also sell the Southern Maltings arts centre in Ware and a parade of shops it owns in Bishop’s Stortford.
The council, which is jointly run by the Green Party and Liberal Democrats, is not alone in local government in facing a funding crisis, and faces having to make savings of £5.6million in the next financial year, of which £2million is as yet unidentified.
It is also tackling a projected £1.1m overspend in the current financial year.
One of the ways it plans to close the budget gap is to sell off assets it owns that it does not need, and it plans to pay down some of the council’s debt with the proceeds, which would then significantly reduce the interest it will have to pay on its remaining debt in future years.
At a meeting of the council’s executive (group of leading councillors) on Tuesday 1st October, members agreed to the sale of four parcels of land which, they heard, have no
existing use for the council. These are at Widford Road, Hunsdon; Great Innings North, Watton-at-Stone; King George Road, Ware and Sele Road, Hertford.
But executive member for financial sustainability Cllr Carl Brittain said he wanted more time to discuss the
future of the Southern Maltings, a popular and well-used arts centre in Ware, and the Havers Parade of shops in Elizabeth Road, Bishop’s Stortford because the buildings had existing tenants.
He told the meeting that a delay was not a significant issue in terms of costs.
Why you won’t see Ware’s festive lanterns
With our town centres’ Christmas lights and decorations due to start going up this month, this is the time that Ware residents will notice the effect of a decision forced upon their town council earlier this year to finally retire the town’s famous festive lanterns.
The colourful lanterns have been a striking feature for many years. Not everyone loved them but, in 2022, a residents’ survey showed that 63 per cent of respondents favoured retaining them over different forms of Christmas lights. But it was already apparent that before too long the lanterns would be beyond repair and would need replacing.
A survey in 2023 highlighted major compliance problems with the way they were installed on buildings and Ware Town Council then sought different estimates for installing a new system that would involve
strings of lights fixed to buildings. However, it proved impossible to achieve so the council reluctantly decided that the lights would not return for this Christmas.
The Mayor of Ware, Cllr Martin Butcher, said: “I am desperately disappointed that we can’t bring the Christmas lanterns back to Ware this year. I’ve always loved them and they’ve been a big part of my Christmas for as long as I can remember. I have argued for years
Tories call for chief executive role to be shared between councils
The recent sudden departure of the chief executive of East Herts Council, Richard Cassidy, has prompted calls for change from the authority’s Conservative opposition.
The Tories have asked the council’s Green-Lib Dem leadership to consider sharing a chief executive with another council to save money. Cllr Graham McAndrew raised the idea at the council’s executive on Tuesday 1st October, suggesting it would offer a way of reducing spending at a time when East Herts is facing a financial crisis.
Tory group leader Cllr Bob Deering followed this up by advocating for a change before a new chief executive is appointed.
He said the reduction in the council’s workload in recent years, including fewer major planning applications being dealt with and more work being outsourced, meant the move was now possible. He said that a shared CEO arrangement has been adopted by other local authorities facing similar challenges, adding that East Herts had actually been approached in the past by a neighbouring council with a proposal to share the CEO role.
on the council that we have to keep them.
“But we have to comply with modern standards. So, sadly, and to my great regret, we have to find a new way to celebrate Christmas in Ware.”
The council has been working on alternatives, which locals will see in the coming weeks, with displays on selected buildings and more festive set pieces like the popular Ware Bear around the town centre.
Mr Deering added: “With the resignation of the current CEO, we now have a window of opportunity to revisit this option. The simultaneous departure of both the chief executive and the chief finance officer gives the administration the chance to grasp the nettle and reorganise the make-up of the senior staff. Given the council’s reduced level of activity, sharing a CEO with another authority would deliver significant savings and should plainly be looked at.”
Southern Maltings in Ware could still be disposed of by East Herts
Conservative leader Bob Deering
Ware’s distinctive lanterns will be seen no more
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Josh Dean MP
MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR HERTFORD & STORTFORD
My first 100 days as your MP have been a busy time – and Remembrance Sunday and Christmas are coming up...
Reflecting on my first 100 days as our Member of Parliament – a milestone we crossed in October – I’m proud of how much we’ve achieved together. I’ve now held an advice surgery in every major town in our constituency and my team and I are now preparing for the busy winter months ahead. I’m looking forward to the Christmas period and the flurry of activity that it brings to our community.
This month, we will pause to mark Remembrance Day and honour those who have served our country. On Remembrance Sunday, I’ll be joining veterans, Mayor Rachel Carter and Hertford town councillors, and members of our community in Hertford town centre to lay wreaths in tribute to the fallen. Representatives from my office will be laying wreaths on my behalf at services across the constituency on the same day.
In Parliament, I’ve supported this government’s legislation to end the injustice of no-fault evictions and protect renters in our community with the Renters’ Rights Bill and deliver the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation with the Employment Rights Bill.
It was a pleasure to speak in the House of Commons following this Government’s record-breaking International Investment Summit, which secured £63 billion for our economy, including a £1.1 billion programme of investment at Stansted Airport over five years.
I continue to have important conversations with residents in our community regarding the important issue of assisted dying, following the introduction of Kim Leadbeater MP’s Private Members’ Bill to Parliament in October. I’m grateful to all those who have shared their views on this sensitive issue with me, and I look forward to further conversations as I visit our towns and villages. I encourage residents who want to share their views on assisted dying to write to me at josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk.
In partnership with Cllr Sarah Hopewell and the Kingsmead Residents’ Association, I also continue to pursue an open dialogue with Chase New Homes regarding a bus station waiting room in the Lea Wharf development. I’m disappointed that the developer has so far failed to meaningfully engage in this conversation,
however, we remain committed to driving it forward. I will keep residents up to date with our progress.
Finally, I’m pleased to announce the launch of my first annual Christmas Card Competition.
Where to meet Josh at his constituency surgeries
Friday 15th November: Bishop’s Stortford
Saturday 30th November: Much Hadham
Email josh.dean.mp@parliament.uk to book an appointment
The competition is open to children aged 3-11 across the constituency and runs until Sunday 10th November. You can find out more by visiting my website (joshdean.co.uk) and I look forward to seeing your submissions!
Josh speaking in the House of Commons and preparing to meet constituents at one of his surgeries
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Lewis Cocking MP
MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR BROXBOURNE
How an improving state primary school could lose out because of Labour’s plan to impose VAT on independent schools
This month, I was proud to raise two issues that I know are at the forefront of people’s minds here in Broxbourne.
In a debate on Labour’s imposition of VAT and business rates on independent schools, I brought attention to how the Government’s policy could have a major impact on a state secondary school in our area.
For many years, Turnford School had faced significant challenges and three consecutive Ofsted inspections had rated it as ‘requiring improvement’.
But thanks to a unique partnership with Haileybury independent school, the tide began to turn. In 2015, the school was relaunched as Haileybury Turnford academy, with Haileybury the sole sponsor. A generous annual improvement grant was established, worth £200,000 a year.
Turnford has now been able to recruit and retain high-quality teaching staff, provide more support for students with special educational needs and greater opportunities for gifted and talented pupils.
For the first time in the school’s history, it was judged to be ‘good’ in 2022 by Ofsted.
Regrettably, the Government’s
decision to add VAT to school fees could put this progress at risk, as Haileybury will inevitably be forced to cut what they spend elsewhere.
For the impact of this brilliant state-independent partnership to continue, I urged the Government to allow the financial support and resources provided to state schools by independent schools to be offset against VAT liability.
For many years, I’ve heard countless stories from parents about the difficulties they’ve had accessing the right special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provi-
Meet Lewis at his constituency surgeries
sion for the children. In a debate this month, I explained the acute challenges we’re facing in Hertfordshire.
In less than a decade, the number of children with an Education, Health and Care Plan in Hertfordshire has grown by a staggering 223%, even higher than the 140% rise nationally. Despite this, Hertfordshire incredibly receives the third lowest funding per head out of every local authority in the country. The national funding formula must change to reflect current demand on the system, and I’ll be continuing to press the Government to do this.
I am continuing to hold regular in-person surgeries to discuss issues and concerns with constituents. If you have a problem you’d like to raise with me, please contact my office at lewis.cocking.mp@parliament.uk.
In Broxbourne, it’s become clear that traffic delays caused by roadworks have caused serious problems in our area over the last few weeks.
While I wish I had a magic wand to end the disruption straight away, I am doing what I can.
I will be meeting with utility companies and I’ll also be raising this issue in Parliament.
To help me hold those responsible to account and build a record of the delays, I’m asking local people to share their experiences with me via my website at lewiscocking.uk/ roadworks.
Lewis speaking with parents in Waltham Cross about special educational needs provision
Lewis answering children’s questions at a primary school in Cheshunt
New charity shop Phoenix opens its doors in Hertford town centre
Phoenix Pre-Loved Emporium in Hertford’s Market Street is a charity shop raising funds for the work of the charity, based in the town, that offers free treatment and support to people suffering substance addiction or those in recovery. The shop opened recently in the premises formerly home to the
closed County Care dry cleaners and cobblers.
If you can donate items for sale or are interested in volunteering call on 07549 280964. For more information on the charity and its services visit phoenixcharity.com.
The shop is at 4 Market Street, Hertford SG14 1BD.
High quality clothing store Goddards has opened in the iconic building that used to house Aristocrat for 30 years at The Chantry in Bishop’s Stortford. Goddards is a growing independent group with stores across East Anglia and the Midlands and took over the former Aristocrat business in March.
The Aristocrat shop then closed in July before reopening under the Goddards brand on Saturday 5th October.
The new shop sells men’s and women’s clothing from brands including Barbour, Fred Perry, PS by Paul Smith, Ted Baker, Great Plains, Ugg and Polo by Ralph Lauren among others.
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Hoddesdon hearing expert helps Olympic champion
One of Britain’s most successful athletes has turned to a Hoddesdon-based hearing care professional to help him continue to develop his medal-winning career. Canoe champion Joe Clarke
MBE has won medals at every major international event he has ever competed in, including gold in the K1 event at the 2016 Rio Olympics and silver in this year’s Paris Games when the new kayak cross event made its Olympics debut.
He has also been world champion in kayak cross in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Kayak cross is a tough discipline – it sees four kayakers plunge from a two-metre high ramp at the same time before fighting it out around the slalom poles in a frantic froth of whitewater.
Part of the event involves carrying out a 360-degree roll during which the canoeist submerges their head in water, so Joe, in a constant desire to improve,
sought out the expert help of Jude Borquaye, of Hoddesdon-based Tranquil Hearing Care.
He wanted a form of ear protection for that manoeuvre but one that would also enable him to hear the start signal – something not readily available.
To create the protective pieces, Jude removed Joe’s ear wax before taking impressions of his ear canal, a highly specialised process which has enabled Jude to create the ear protection needed to help Joe.
As well as offering hearing and tinnitus assessments, ear wax removal and state of the art hearing aids, Tranquil Hearing Care can create ear protection for sleeping, swimming and noise reduction/ elimination.
Tranquil Hearing Care is at 6a Limes Court, Hoddesdon EN11 8EP. Call 01992 934196 or visit tranquilhearingcare.co.uk to book an appointment.
Joe Clarke (left) with Jude Borquaye of Tranquil Hearing Care
Going to the EU? Beware of forthcoming changes
Passport expiry issue was only the beginning, warns Kevin Brooks of
For various reasons, in recent months I have been bemoaning the relentless rise of bureaucracy. Looking back, I have to admit that it has always been there. But the difference now is that the efficiency of digital technology makes it easier for the powersthat-be to know more about who we are and where we are. I therefore want to outline two new European schemes that will be introduced over the coming months… and, as is often the case, very little has been fully reported about them, so I hope you will find this useful.
The passport problem
Before I get on to them, let me remind you about the impact our coming out of the EU had on passport dates. Many of you will know about this one because there have been reports in the media of people being caught out, so check your passport for the expiry date.
Mine was issued in March 2015 and shows an expiry date of December 2025 but as far as many countries are concerned, especially those within the EU, the passport expires 10 years after it was issued, so not in December 2025 but in March 2025. There is no point arguing with the logic, or lack of, behind this, just be aware of when your passport was issued and accept that it runs out 10 years later.
If you get caught out by this, you simply will not be allowed to travel.
Cannon Travel
End of the stamp
Back to the upcoming changes, the first of which starts in November and is called the EU Entry-Exit System (EES). Since we left the EU, we have had the novelty of having our passports stamped as we enter or leave a member state. That is about to change and to highlight what will happen let me include an extract from a recent article that was in the Travel Trade Gazette which, as the name suggests, is a well-respected travel trade magazine:
“From November, tourists going to Europe need to think like they are going to the US. There will be no more passport stamping under the Entry-Exit System instead, an individual’s movements will be registered digitally every time they enter the EU Bloc.
“The downside to this is that
border systems must be loaded with the traveller’s information – a biometric facial image and fingerprint scans – and therein lies the potential problem. As this is an EU initiative, these biometrics must be collected at all EU airports. That raises the likelihood of long waits at immigration, if not in November then certainly next summer.
“The EES data will need to be renewed every three years and will apply in 29 European countries, including Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. However, Cyprus and Ireland are excluded and will continue to stamp passports.
The EU Home Affairs Commissioner insists that EES will apply at every single airport, every single harbour, every single road into Europe and will all be switched on at the same time.”
Where the checks take place
The only good news is that the EES scheme is for entry into the EU so will not affect returning passengers, therefore it should not have an impact on UK airports.
However, it will impact departure points where there are dual British and French borders: Dover ferries, Eurostar and Eurotunnel. At those locations checks will happen upon departing the UK.
The not so good news is that EES is just the start, because the EU’s visa waiver scheme Etias (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is due to start in May 2025. This will be like the US Esta scheme with online registration costing around £6 per person.
So the message is the same as it has always been for travellers… be aware of all the required paperwork when travelling to another country and do not leave it to the last minute!
The ‘good’ old days
The upshot is that the bureaucrats are winning and gone are the days of bluffing your way through problems, like I did back in 1980 when flying from Pakistan into India. At that time, you needed certain vaccinations to be allowed entry and I foolishly forgot my vaccination card so was stopped at border control.
The solution was to give the guard 100 rupees (about £5 then) and he waved me through. Life was so much easier then!
Kevin Brooks says: ‘Don’t leave anything to the last minute’
All the business support you can get...
Hertfordshire Growth Hub’s pre-Christmas business support show on Friday 6th December at Knebworth Barns is a must-attend event if you are looking to start or grow a business in the county
Hertfordshire Growth Hub’s flagship festive All The Help You Can Get Business Support Show is back at Knebworth Barns on Friday 6th December, where they will look to unwrap the strength of the county’s business support network.
Aimed at those looking to start, grow or scale their business in Hertfordshire, the event will provide insight and opportunity for you and your business, through its expert-led workshops and networking and exhibition area.
What can you expect?
Look forward to networking with like-minded business owners, connecting with key business support organisations, and gaining valuable insights by attending expert-led, bite-sized workshops. Whether you’re interested in learning more about AI, enhancing your marketing with video content, developing a marketing strategy, managing your business finances or transforming your team, there are six workshops available for you to select from when you book.
Who is exhibiting this year?
Over 20 organisations will be present on the day to exhibit, including the Federation of Small Business (FSB), Wenta, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, University of Hertfordshire Business School, Visit Herts, Hertfordshire Opportunities,
Hertfordshire Futures, Step2Skills, STANTA, Herts Healthy Workplace, Ideas Fest, Innovate UK Business Growth, Better Business for All (BBfA), Estu, Hertfordshire Film Office, Hertfordshire Economic Development Officers and The Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre.
This year’s show will also feature a celebration as Hertfordshire Growth Hub nears its 10th anniversary in March 2025. You
will have the opportunity to hear more about the work of the growth hub and how businesses have benefitted from its support over the years.
The All The Help You Can Get Business Support Show is open to all; and whether you are starting up or looking to grow your business then this is a must-attend event. Scan the QR code or visit hertsgrowthhub.com to book your free ticket.
What is the growth hub?
Hertfordshire Growth Hub is Hertfordshire Futures’ flagship business support provider. Powered by Hertfordshire Futures, it is delivered by a consortium of partners, led by business support specialists Exemplas, with the University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and Visit Herts.
The service provides a central point of access for businesses in the county to access support and guidance to enable them to grow, scale and innovate, strengthening the Hertfordshire economy. Call 01707 952777 to speak to the growth hub’s team of experienced business advisers who can answer questions, make introductions and find the answers you need. And sign up online to the growth hub’s newsletter to receive monthly updates of resources and events to support you on your business journey.
Find out all about how to support your business at the show in December
WHAT’S ON Town centres mark start of Christmas season
The lights are going up, the Christmas stock is in the shops and our town centres are preparing for the launch of the Christmas season proper! Across the area covered by Axis, thousands of people will be going out and about to Christmas light switchons and shopping events over the next month. Here’s our guide to what’s happening:
HERTFORD CHRISTMAS GALA & MARKET
Friday 22-Sunday 24 November
The county town marks the start of Christmas with a weekend of events from Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th November.
The Hertford Christmas Gala kicks off festivities on the Friday afternoon from 3pm until 8pm. The town will be packed with pop-up market stalls, festive food and entertainment all leading up to the lights switch-on at 6pm by the Mayor of Hertford in Salisbury Square.
Across town in the grounds of Hertford Castle, the town’s now traditional Christmas market will make a return, with a variety of stalls selling gifts, food and drink alongside fairground rides and live entertainment.
The market runs from 3.30-8pm on Friday, 11am to 6pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday.
HODDESDON LOVES CHRISTMAS
Sunday 24 November
The traditional Hoddesdon Loves Christmas event is a collaboration between Love Hoddesdon BID and Broxbourne Council. For the first time, this year’s event will take place on a Sunday – Sunday 24th November. The day begins at 10am with the town centre filled with stalls and attractions including a snow globe. There is also live entertainment on stage throughout the day, the headline act being
tribute group Ultimate Boybands. Late in the afternoon the Father Christmas Parade features local groups and organisations taking part in a parade through the town centre.
Everyone then gathers around the stage in the High Street for the switch-on of the Christmas lights which coincide with a fireworks display. This year, the Whitnall brothers, Aaron, Cam and Tyler from popular TV show One Zoo Three and Broxbourne’s own Hertfordshire Zoo, will be the star attraction at the lights switch-on.
l See page 23 for more details.
DICKENSIAN EVENING IN WARE
Friday 6 December
Ware’s famous Dickensian Evening is on Friday 6th December this year. Roads including the High Street are closed to traffic and are taken over by stalls featuring crafts, gifts, food and drink, local groups and charities. Most shops stay open late to offer Christmas shopping and there are markets in the Drill
event running from 4pm to 9pm features stalls selling crafts with food and drink also available along with a licensed bar.
BISHOP’S
STORTFORD
FESTIVE FUN DAY
Sunday 17 November
The festive fun day in Bishop’s Stortford on Sunday 17th November is organised by Bishop’s Stortford BID and includes live performances in Market Square plus the switching-on of the Christmas tree lights there, carols, face-painting and more between 12noon and 4pm.
l See page 22 for more details.
SAWBRIDGEWORTH’S LIGHTS SWITCH-ON
Saturday 30 November
Sawbridgeworth holds its lights switch-on event on Saturday 30th November from 3-7pm in Bell Street with stalls, fairgound rides and entertainment. The lights are switched on at 6pm.
Just round the corner, Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall in The Forebury hosts a Taste & Craft Festival. The family-friendly
LOVE CHESHUNT’S FESTIVE FAMILY FUN DAY
Saturday 23 November
The Love Cheshunt business organisation is holding its first ever festive family fun day in the Cadmore Lane car park on Saturday 23rd November from 1-5pm. There will be dance and musical entertainment, Santa’s Grotto and stalls selling festive goods, followed by the lights switch-on.
WALTHAM CROSS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Saturday 7 December
The Waltham Cross Christmas Festival takes place on Saturday 7th December from 10am to 6pm in the High Street. It will be a fun-filled day with live music, community Christmas stalls and food and drink.
And word has it that Santa himself might be popping in with his reindeer too!
Hall and a Christmas tree festival in Leaside Church. Dickensian fancy dress is positively encouraged!
The crowds will come out for Hoddesdon Loves Christmas, Hertford Christmas Gala and Dickensian Evening in Ware
Bishop’s Stortford BID gets the festivities started
The festive season is almost upon us. What’s happening in the town centre in the coming weeks?
Christmas launch event
Returning for 2024, the BID’s Festive Fun Day will take place on Sunday 17th November from 12-4pm. Come along, soak up the atmosphere and get in the Christmas spirit!
There will be free fun and entertainment for all the family and performances from local choirs, dance and music groups will take place in Market Square. Rock Choir will kick off proceedings at midday, followed by Forte Performing Arts School and Bishop’s Stortford Musical Theatre Company amongst others through the afternoon.
The Christmas tree, sponsored again this year by the BID, will provide the backdrop. Twinkling lights will be switched on at dusk to get you feeling festive! Look out for our elves and candy canes who will be around the town spreading Christmas cheer. You’ll spot them popping into shops, chatting with families and handing out festive giveaways to good boys and girls, young and old!
Face Create will be in Jackson Square offering face painting for £5. You will find them in the new community space at the top of the travelator. The BID gazebo will be outside FatFace – pop along to find out more on the day and enter our competition. Take the opportunity to see what our town centre businesses have to offer this festive season. Many
of them will be running special offers and promotions on the day. Look for present inspiration, start the Christmas shopping or perhaps enjoy a drink or bite to eat in one of our cafes, pubs, bars or restaurants.
Shop Local
Take a look at what’s on our high street this Christmas for gifting, experiences and entertainment. New additions include Goddards, the home of designer fashion and homeware (where Aristocrat was previously), Japanese restaurant Ikura on Apton Road, plus Astra cocktail bar and Skin by Dr Caroline, both in Riverside Walk,
just off South Street. Stuck for a present? Pick up a Discover Stortford gift card and load it online from the comfort of your home. Available from Tourist Information or Unique Hair on Bridge Street. Accepted by 40+ businesses in the town centre. For more details, visit discoverstortford.co.uk/gift-card. Don’t forget the Click and Collect services available in Bishop’s Stortford, including Waitrose (John Lewis), Marks and Spencer, Next, Sainsbury’s and Ruby Room to mention just a few. Northgate End is convenient for parking with over 500 spaces. All-day parking is available for
£4.20 Mon-Sat, and £1.60 on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
More festive inspiration l Christmas Community Countdown from 1st to 24th December in Jackson Square; l Christmas Fayre on Saturday 7th December, 9.30am-4.30pm throughout the town centre; l Lights of Love organised by Isabel Hospice. A family-friendly service to remember loved ones on Sunday 1st December at 4pm in Market Square; l Santa’s Grotto from 7th to 24th December and Robin Hood panto from 7th December to 4th Jan. Book at southmillarts.co.uk.
Herts & Soul Choir will be singing at Lights of Love / Isabel Hospice
Cheeky elves at Festive Fun Day ’23 BID/JJD Media
Hoddesdon Loves Christmas set for Sunday lift-off!
The Events Team at Broxbourne Council and the Events and Promotions Committee of Love Hoddesdon BID have once more come together to present the town’s biggest crowd-pleasing event – Hoddesdon Loves Christmas and Father Christmas Parade – that this year takes place on Sunday 24th November.
“The day begins at 10am with something in town for all ages and all interests,” said chair of the Love Hoddesdon Events and Promotions Committee Stephen Harris. “We have brought back many of the family favourites, including the snow globe at the southern end of the High Street, Santa’s Grotto, that this year will be located at Via Properties in High Street, and the Christmas carousel of galloping horses that can be found next to the war memorial.”
The Christmas Stage and Arena will be next to the clock tower with a full programme of entertainment beginning at 10.30am. From a brass band, choirs and a performance from Mayhem Theatre Arts students to solo singers, rappers and Love Hoddesdon’s very own Jenny Salmon, there promises to be something for all. The main act this year is Ultimate Boybands (partly sponsored by Nonna’s Kitchen) performing hits from Take That, Westlife, Blue and many more.
Father Christmas Parade
The Father Christmas Parade sets off from Elsie House (formerly The Spinning Wheel) at the southern end of town at 4.45pm.
The procession heads towards the town centre before entering the High Street and making its way towards the clock tower. Here the stage host Dean Martin will announce the parade entries to the spectators from the stage. The route of the procession then goes along Amwell Street, turns right into Morrisons car park, right again into Burford Street and then left down Brewery Road, past Nonna’s Kitchen and coming to a halt in Sainsburys petrol station which will be closed off. A safe viewing area for wheelchair users will be the raised path overlooking Morrisons car park from The Pavilion.
Zoo brothers to switch on lights
The Whitnall brothers, Aaron, Cam and Tyler from local attraction Hertfordshire Zoo and TV show One Zoo Three, will be joining the festivities to help switch on the Christmas lights after the parade arrives. Just ahead of the switch-on, which is followed by a firework display, the Mayor of Broxbourne Cllr Sherrie McDaid will lead the crowd with a countdown.
The Love Hoddesdon mascot Master Henry Hoddas will also be in the arena during the day to greet children and for photo opportunities.
“From Morrisons at the northern end of town to the Golden Lion pub at the southern end, the High Street and Conduit Lane will be full of traders and community stalls, caterers, bars and funfair attractions plus street entertainers, just the right ingredients to kick start the festive season,” added Stephen Harris.
Volunteers needed
Mr Harris is looking for volunteers to act as parade marshals to help safely move the procession from start to finish.
If you can help please email events@lovehoddesdon.co.uk by Wednesday 20th November.
There will be fun all all ages at Hoddesdon Loves Christmas, with star attractions the Whitnall brothers from TV’s popular One Zoo Three show switching on the lights, a fireworks display and Ultimate Boybands singing live on stage
It’s time to book those panto tickets... oh yes it is!
Sleeping Beauty
The Spotlight, Hoddesdon
Thursday 12th-Monday 30th
December
Written and directed by Marc Day, The Spotlight’s festive treat will be packed with music, dance, comedy and audience participation, with an added touch of sparkle and feathers!
Standard tickets: £22.50-£26 adults, £20.50- £24 concessions, £80-£94 family.
thespotlightvenue.com 01992 441946
Cinderella and the Glass Slipper BEAM Hertford
Saturday 30th November to Wednesday 1st January BEAM’s first panto is one of the best-loved tales of all.
Standard tickets: £23 adults, £21 children. Family discounts available at checkout. beamhertford.co.uk
No phone booking
Aladdin
Wyllyotts Theatre, Potters Bar
Friday 13th to Tuesday 31st
December
A classic tale filled with magic, laughter and wishes galore and some of the best-loved panto
characters including Widow Twankey, the evil Abanazaar and Wishee-Washee.
Standard tickets: £21 adults, £18.50 children, £70 family. wyllyottstheatre.co.uk 01707 645005
Harlow Playhouse
Dick Whittington
Friday 29th November to Sunday 5th January
Harlow panto legends Jimmy Burton-Iles and Ben Parsley are back again for this year’s spectacular at the Playhouse. Tickets: From £15 to £28 depending upon performance; family tickets also available. harlowplayhouse.co.uk 01279 431945
Millfield Theatre, Edmonton
Aladdin and the Legion of Genies
Thursday 5th to Monday 30th
December
Aladdin embarks upon a remarkable adventure with twists, turns and wishes granted by the magical genie.
Tickets: From £22 adults, £18 children and concessions, £75 family.
Get into the festive spirit at the Knebworth Christmas Fair
The region’s largest Christmas shopping event returns to the barns and marquees of Knebworth House later this month.
The Knebworth Christmas Fair features hundreds of stands selling everything from decorations and gifts to festive food and drink – all amid a backdrop of great family entertainment. Tickets come in a range of options depending on when you wish to visit and how many times, and start with afternoon tickets from 1.30pm at £9 for adults and £5.50 for children. The fair runs for the whole weekend from Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th November.
For tickets and more details, visit knebworthchristmasfair.co.uk.
millfieldtheatre.co.uk 0208 807 6680
South Mill Arts, Bishop’s Stortford Robin Hood
Saturday 7th December to Saturday 4th January
Expect lots of men in green tights
The art of gifting at Parndon Mill
The Gallery at Parndon Mill in Harlow holds its annual exhibition, Present Arts, from Sunday 17th November until Sunday 22nd December, offering great opportunities to buy the works of local artists as gifts. You will find ideal gifts created by the craftspeople and artists based at the mill and others. The gallery is in Parndon Mill Lane, Harlow CM20 2HP. For opening times visit parndonmill.co.uk or call 01279 426042.
as Robin Hood and his merry acolytes ride into Bishop’s Stortford. From the team that bought you last year’s hit show. Tickets: From £18.50 to £25.50 depending upon performance; family tickets also available. southmillarts.co.uk 01279 710200
Festive market at Southern Maltings
The Southern Maltings in Ware will be transformed into a festive market space on Sunday 1st December from 10am to 3pm with food, drink, crafts, wreaths, table arrangements and gifts. Entry is just £1. Southern Maltings is in Kibes Lane, Ware SG12 7BS. Visit southernmaltings.co.uk. l Broxbourne URC Church in Mill Lane, Broxbourne holds a Christmas market on Saturday 23rd November from 10.30am2pm. Admission is free.
The ever-popular Ben Parsley is Silly Billy at Harlow Playhouse
30 November 2024 - 1 January 2025
BEAM, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS
The best new films to see at the cinema this month
Small Things Like These (PG)
Now showing
Adapted from Claire Keegan’s remarkable Booker Prize-nominated novel of the same name, Small Things Like These chronicles Irish coal merchant and devoted father Bill Furlong as he discovers disturbing secrets kept by the local convent, uncovering shocking truths of his own, in 1985. Cillian Murphy, Michelle Fairley and Emily Watson star. The screenplay is written by Keegan and Enda Walsh.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (PG)
Out on Friday 8th November Mayhem ensues when the Herdmans – six of the worst behaved youngsters ever – take over their local church’s Christmas pageant (Nativity play in English). But will they actually teach a shocked community the true meaning of Christmas…?
Paddington in Peru (PG)
Out on Friday 8th November
And the movie you really should see in the run-up to Christmas! Everyone’s favourite marmalade-loving bear returns home to Peru when he and the Browns visited his beloved Aunt Lucy. A thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through the Amazon and beyond. Ben Whishaw is the voice of Paddington again and the all-star cast features Olivia Colman, Emily Mortimer, Antonio Banderas, Julie Walters, Imelda Staunton (as the voice of Aunt Lucy), Jim Broadbent and Hugh Bonneville.
Gladiator II (TBC)
Out on Friday 15th November Sequel in which, after his home is conquered by the tyrannical emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and find the strength
Imtiaz Dharker to visit Ware Poets this month at Southern Maltings
In a special one-off event, Ware Poets are welcoming one of the UK’s leading poets, Imtiaz Dharker, who has been awarded the Queen’s Medal for Poetry, to Southern Maltings on Friday 8th November.
Imtiaz has also had the distinction of being the subject of Desert Island Discs on Radio 4 and is the Chancellor of Newcastle University. Her poems feature on the GCSE and A-Level English syllabus and have featured on the London Underground, Glasgow billboards – and buses in Mumbai! She is also an accomplished artist and her seven collections of poetry are illustrated with her own drawings, which form an integral part of her books.
The evening at Southern Maltings in Kibes Lane, Ware begins at 8pm, with doors opening at 7.30pm. An open mic session will feature readings by audience members, and will be followed by Imtiaz’s performance.
Tickets are £6, under-19s free,
and spaces are limited so book at southernmaltings.co.uk.
The visit is part of a collaboration between Ware Poets with Presdales and Chauncy schools. It is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with the generous support of East Herts District Council and Ware Town Council.
Ware Poets meet monthly at Southern Maltings.
To find out more about the group visit warepoets.org.
to return the glory of Rome to its people.
Moana 2
Out on Friday 29th November
This Disney animation sequel
sees Moana journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous waters for an adventure unlike any she has ever faced after receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors.
See Iolo Williams, TV naturalist and conservationist, at The
The renowned naturalist and TV presenter Iolo Williams, best known for his work on the BBC’s award-winning series Springwatch and Winterwatch, will be visiting The Spotlight in Hoddesdon on Wednesday 20th November at 7.30pm. His touring show, Life Before The Lens, enables Iolo to showcase his passion for protecting wildlife and his deep connection with nature, developed from his early years, and is a great night
Spotlight
out for audience of all ages. This is a great opportunity to hear stories from his life and work in the natural world, as well as his dedication to conservation.
He also talks about his work as a Species Officer for the RSPB and some of the incredible experiences he has had, including meeting some amazing characters! Tickets are £27.50 and can be booked on 01992 441946 or at thespotlightvenue.com.
The lovable little bear returns home in Paddington In Peru
Exhibition on Screen shines spotlight on Van Gogh
Enjoy a private view of The National Gallery’s exhibition in the comfort of your local theatre...
200 years after its opening and 100 years after acquiring its first Van Gogh works, The National Gallery has opened the UK’s “once-in-a-century” Van Gogh exhibition.
Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers, which opened in mid-September and runs through to mid-January, focuses on the period of his career that the artist spent in Arles and Saint-Rémy in Provence in the South of France between 1888 and 1890.
It is here that he revolutionized his style and, inspired by poets, writers and artists, created some of his best known works – the magical Starry Night over the RhÔne (1888, Musée d’Orsay) and The Yellow House (1888, Van Gogh Museum) as well as the National’s own Sunflowers (1888) and Van Gogh’s Chair (1889), among many others.
In an accomplishment that cannot be underestimated, the exhibition includes over 60 works and loans from museums and private collections around the world. Some haven’t been exhibited in decades, others are rarely seen in public. The opportunity to see them all in one place is an experience unlikely to be repeated in our lifetimes, and the first release of tickets running to 8th December have long been sold out.
Exhibition on Screen
To coincide with the exhibition, Exhibition on Screen’s new film, Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers, arrives in cinemas from
Wednesday 6th November.
Launched in 2009, Exhibition on Screen has produced films on more than 30 artists including Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Hockney and more.
In 2023 it broke box office records with Vermeer: The Greatest Exhibition, a similar project that gave audiences around the world a private view of the sell-out Vermeer exhibition at Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and which became the highest grossing art documentary in UK history.
Directed by David Bickerstaff, Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers will bring The National Gallery’s bicentennial exhibition to the big screen, while offering a deep dive into the artist’s life and work.
Like the exhibition itself the 92-minute film is a celebration of the artist’s life that explores his engagement with poetry and love, his diligent research, his ground-breaking use of colour and his revolutionary style. It uses letters written to his brother Theo and other artists to understand the inspiration
and creative process behind his works and is an appreciation of a highly capable and skilled individual rather than the troubled soul often depicted in popular narrative.
To find out more, together with information on forthcoming Exhibition on Screen films, or to download previous titles visit exhibitiononscreen.com.
Tickets for the exhibition at The National Gallery can be booked at nationalgallery.org.uk.
WHERE TO SEE LOCAL THEATRE SHOWINGS
Beam, Hertford (beamhertford. co.uk). Sunday 10th November at 1pm.
Wyllyotts Theatre, Potters Bar (wyllyottstheatre.co.uk).
Wednesday 6th to Tuesday 12th November (various showings). South Mill Arts, Bishop’s Stortford (southmillarts.co.uk).
Wednesday 6th November at 11am and 2pm.
Christmas
Day lunch
Let us take the reins for Christmas Day. We’ll kick things off with a glass of Bucks fizz or a mocktail for the grown-ups, before serving up a four-course feast. What’s more, in the afternoon the little ones can take part in our treasure hunt and win a prize!
Adults £150
Child £75 (under 10 years)
Little ones £25 (under 4 years)
Boxing
Day lunch
Our culinary wizards are whipping up a spectacular three-course buffet, complete with a treasure hunt for the little ones!
Adults £80
Child £40 (under 10 years)
Little ones £15 (under 4 years)
Fancy your own private party room, complete with a delicious three-course meal, wine and festive celebrations? Scan the QR code to find out more.
Winter Warmers @
Jive Talkin’ perform The Bee Gees Saturday 16 November, 7.30pm
Dazzling Diamonds – The Comedy Variety Drag Show Sunday 17 November, 7.30pm
Psychic Sally Britain’s Best Loved Psychic! Wednesday 27 November, 7.30pm
Why not enjoy a
01920 460511 fanhamshall@exclusive.co.uk exclusive.co.uk/fanhams-hall/seasonal Fanhams Hall Road, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 7PZ
Williams – Life before the Lens Famed for his love of nature and presenting Springwatch. Informative, insightful and entertaining for the whole family! Wednesday 20 November, 7.30pm
The Elvis Years – The Story of The King 20th Anniversary Tour Saturday 30 November, 7.30pm
Nearly Elton – The Ultimate Tribute to Elton John Thursday 21 November, 7.30pm
Santa’s Big Adventure – A New Puppet Musical
Meet Billy the Elf, Rudolph, Snowy the Snowman and other friends. Age 1-5 years! Sunday 15–Tuesday 24 December
Doors and bar open 1.5 hour prior to event start.
Iolo
FOOD & DRINK
Nelore brings Brazilian ‘Rodizio’ dining to Hertford
Newly-opened Brazilian restaurant Nelore is bringing the country’s popular Rodizio dining experience to Hertfordshire.
The steakhouse has opened in Hertford’s Fore Street, in the building that was most recently home to The Hummingbird and, prior to that, Loch Fyne. It’s the second branch of Nelore for owner Cezar Silva whose first can be found in Newmarket in Suffolk.
Cezar says Rodizio dining is extremely popular in Brazil but is still lesser known here in the UK. In areas where restaurants have opened they are proving a hit – and Nelore is no exception. To start your meal, you visit the salad bar and hot buffet to choose from Brazilian delicacies including salads, freshly-made feijoada (pork stew), and rice and beans.
You can return to the buffet to top up your plate throughout your meal.
The word Rodizio is Portuguese for ‘rotation’ or ‘turn’ and at Rodizio restaurants waiters ‘rotate’ freshly cooked meats past your table and carve them directly onto your plate. These include large skewers of premium cuts of Aberdeen Angus beef (choose from ribeye, bavette, sirloin or rump steak) along with pork, lamb and chicken.
For a set price of £39.90, diners can eat as much as they like.
If you don’t fancy the full Rodizio experience you can instead choose from the salad bar and hot buffet for a fixed price of £25. Nelore also offers a selection of desserts, hot drinks and Brazilian cocktails.
The restaurant is open from 5pm Tuesday to Friday and from 12noon on Saturday and Sunday and closed on Monday. Advance booking at weekends is recommended.
Nelore
130 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AJ 01992 937351 neloresteakhouse.co.uk
Smash Bros open second Hertfordshire burger bar in Ware
Ware High Street has welcomed a new takeaway burger bar, Smash Bros.
The Ware store is the second outlet for Smash Bros, which has another in Stevenage. Not tried a smash burger yet? Smash burgers differ from the norm in that a ball of beef is ‘smashed’ (or squashed) over a
hot pan or grill to create a crispy, craggy-edged, assymetric patty that is juicy, caramelised and full of flavour.
They are proving hugely popular around the country.
Smash Bros also sells southern-fried chicken burgers and wraps, and American-style pancakes and ice cream.
The majority of its burgers are priced at between £6 and £7.
The Ware shop can be found at 11 High Street SG12 9BP and it is open daily from 11.30am to 9.40pm.
You can call it on 01920 633544 and also order online for delivery though GoGetters or collection at smashburgerbros.co.uk.
Nelore has opened in the premises formerly home to The Hummingbird
Roni’s: a very special restaurant with a
Christmas menu just released for 2024, with three exceptional courses plus a glass of Prosecco
Modern day Christmas is a special time, a time for family and friends, a time for looking after ourselves and those we love –and Roni’s is certainly one special restaurant that is made for the festive season.
Roni’s is a locally-owned independent fine dining restaurant in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford’s North Street, which has now been open for four years.
Its success is showing how the concept of fine dining can be adapted to our current times. The food here is excellent. The surroundings are stylish without trying too hard to be overly opulent, the service is attentive and informed whilst still friendly, and the layout of the restaurant has left more than enough room between tables so you enjoy the buzz without overhearing every word of other conversations.
Roni’s unashamedly sets out to offer a memorable fine dining experience, one in which you will feel looked after and unrushed, yet one that is far from stuffy. The menu, of modern European fare, is large enough to have something for everyone, with all dishes freshly cooked using local ingredients where possible.
The Christmas menu
While the à la carte menu remains available through the run-up to Christmas, diners
can also choose from a special Christmas menu offering three courses with a glass of Prosecco for £68.95.
Starters include butterfly king prawns; Parma ham halloumi; duck and orange pork liver paté and seared scallops.
Christmas main courses feature roast turkey and all the trimmings if you fancy a traditional option, as well as slow roast pork belly; Moroccan stew; chef’s special lobster linguine and a 30-day matured 10oz sirloin steak. Christmas pudding with brandy butter heads the festive menu’s dessert list, but if you’re saving that one for Christmas Day itself you can still feast on sticky toffee pudding or Irish cream tiramisu, which are among six tempting options.
Private dining
The restaurant also has three private dining rooms upstairs –perfect for a private dinner party or small function, including the stunning 12-seater Blue Room. All in all, if you are looking for a restaurant that has the wow factor to make your festive get-together with friends, family or work colleagues even more memorable, book Roni’s now.
Roni’s 16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856
ronisrestaurant.co.uk
Festive dining to remember at The Atrium restaurant
Located just inside the main entrance of Hertford Regional College in Turnford is a hidden gem of the local food and drink scene – The Atrium restaurant.
The Atrium is a training restaurant for students studying both professional cookery and events management at the college and offers students the chance to work in a professional, commercial environment whilst learning. By dining at The Atrium you are actively helping to shape the teaching and learning of the young students at Hertford Regional College.
The Atrium is an AA College Rosette award-winning restaurant which uses a range of quality local produce and is a great place to meet for lunch or relax over dinner.
The restaurant has recently undergone a facelift and the new look aims to promote a calm and more sustainable environment
with neutral décor, reclaimed woods and lots of natural greenery.
To be successful, The Atrium relies on local customers and groups and there are a host of incentives offered for diners throughout the year, including Tastecard, Meerkat and Gourmet Society discounts.
During the Christmas period the restaurant is transformed, with festive decorations and themes – and this year the theme is Sustainability.
Christmas dining events
The students have organised a range of festive events.
Three-course Christmas lunches are on offer on Thursdays and Fridays starting on Thursday 28th November and there is a four-course dinner menu on three Thursday evenings: 28th November, 5th December and 19th December.
For a festive afternoon tea book for Tuesday 17th December. On Thursday 12th December the restaurant hosts a Festive Wine and Cheese event, which offers a charcuterie board with wine, along with a Christmas fayre selling a range of gifts, handdecorated Christmas cakes, homemade fudge and other treats. This is a great event to attend with a group of friends.
All the menus are designed by the professional chef team and cooked, under supervision, by the cookery students. The front of house team is led by manager Jo Higgs who shares her passion for creative events with the front of house team.
To book, email atrium@hrc.ac.uk or call 01992 411922. You can also find The Atrium on Facebook.
Christmas at Pircio: a great venue for friends and family
If you are looking for a local restaurant for a Christmas gathering which puts family at the heart of everything it does, then book Pircio in Bishop’s Stortford. This family-run restaurant is based in the town’s historic Drill Hall building.
It is an excellent place to go if you want to celebrate: beautifully designed and cleverly thought out, so that you feel happy and at home here wherever you are seated. The owners have pulled off a difficult trick – making what is in reality a large, cavernous building seem much smaller and more intimate.
And it’s not just the stunning interior design that is welcoming – the staff here give fast, efficient service with a smile.
When it opened eight years ago, Pircio began with a bold and unusual strategy – that of running full and extensive menus from two cuisines side by side.
One side of the menu offered Italian food, the other side Turkish. They still do it. And it not only works but it gives Pircio that point of difference that helps keep its regulars coming back time and again.
There are also different menus for lunch and dinner, there is a kids’
menu, a gluten-free menu, plus the drinks list and separate cocktail menu… this is truly a place where you are spoilt for choice, as well as just spoilt.
Christmas menus
Pircio’s Christmas menus have just been released – there are two available, both with a wide range of choices for starter, main and dessert.
Christmas Menu One offers three courses for £55 and Menu Two has three courses for £50 –both offer a reception drink for another £5.
The menus feature a selection of
both Italian and Turkish dishes which will be enough to offer something for everyone, from the classic chicken shish kebab to grilled salmon or the Pizze Pircio to a spicy prawns pot among the main courses for example.
You can see full details of both menus, as well as the à la carte menu which is also available throughout the festive period, online at pirciorestaurant.com.
Pircio
The Drill Hall, Market Square, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU 01279 898181
pirciorestaurant.com
THE GRANDISON
Pub & Dining
This dog-friendly country pub is surrounded by countryside and offers fresh, home-cooked fare using seasonal ingredients and local suppliers wherever possible. A selection of staple pub classics and changing seasonal dishes keep the menu fresh and inviting all year round. The beers at this free house are well-kept and refreshing and the wines varied and affordable. A weekday set menu, available Tuesday to Friday at lunch and Tuesday to Thursday at dinner offers two courses for £12.95 and three for £15.95.
18 Bury Lane, Bramfield SG14 2QL / 01992 554077 grandisonpub.com
Are
VODINA Turkish
Opened in November 2023, Vodina is a new Turkish restaurant and cocktail bar that is a welcome addition to the dining scene in Ware. The stylish, refurbished, family-friendly restaurant is smart, warm and welcoming and can seat 60 at a time, with room for both couples and larger groups. The main menu is available at all sittings and features traditional Turkish cuisine, alongside set menus for two or four people. There is also a £12.95 lunch menu which is available from 12-3pm. Vodina is open seven days a week from 12noon to 10pm.
21-22 Tudor Square, Ware SG12 9XF / 01920 486688 vodinarestaurant.co.uk
RUAY RÔT BY
BAAN THITIYA
Thai takeaway & delivery
Ruay Rôt means ‘rich in flavour’ in Thai and that is precisely what the food you can order for takeaway or delivery from Hertford’s newest eatery is. Just down the road from its previous Baan Thitiya restaurant, this new takeaway outlet offers authentic Thai food for you to enjoy at home, continuing Baan Thitiya’s story after 20 years in Hertford. You can order by phone or through the GoGetters and Deliveroo apps for delivery to Hertford, Ware and Hoddesdon. The menu includes many vegan specials. Outside tables are also available.
6 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB 01992 587706 ruayrôt.co.uk
THE GEORGE IV Pub & Dining
Nestled in the picturesque village of Great Amwell, The George IV offers exceptional restaurant cuisine within a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Oliver and his team serve a menu of seasonal and fresh small and large sharing plates.
The George IV can also be the perfect venue for your next event. Whether it is an intimate wedding, baby shower, birthday or a special anniversary, there is a variety of dining options to suit any occasion in the private dining room and courtyard.
Cautherly Lane, Great Amwell SG12 9SW / 01920 870039 info@georgeivpub.co.uk georgeivpub.co.uk
PIRCIO Pub & Dining
Pircio is a family-run independent restaurant in Bishop’s Stortford that offers two different menus of Italian and Turkish cuisine. Both menus are cooked by teams of specialist chefs and diners can choose from pizza, pasta and other Italian classics or dishes such as halloumi, falafel, moussaka and lamb tagine.
The historic Drill Hall building has been smartly refurbished and can seat 200 people downstairs whilst there is also a mezzanine for private dining. Pircio is open seven days a week, all day.
Drill Hall, Market Square
Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU 01279 898181
pirciorestaurant.com
Thai
Baan Thitiya, Bishop’s Stortford’s premier Thai restaurant, is perfect for relaxed dining. Close to Bishop’s Stortford town centre, it also has its own parking. The restaurant is decorated in a contemporary Thai style and the extensive menu features high quality food prepared by Thai chefs with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and authentic, natural flavours. The restaurant has just launched a new lunch menu and also has an excellent wine list. A warm welcome and great service await you. Baan Thitiya is open seven days for lunch and dinner.
102 London Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3DS 01279 658575
baan-thitiya.com
SHISHBOURNE Turkish
Shishbourne is a Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant on Broxbourne High Road which is open seven days a week and offers a full menu all day, now including breakfast from 8am to 4pm. It is plush and luxurious with an unforgettable Instagrammable interior, great cocktails and an à la carte menu filled with Turkish classics. It also offers a bottomless dinner option from 6pm Monday to Thursday and a twocourse lunch menu from 12-3.30pm Monday to Friday. There is live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings too.
27 High Road, Broxbourne EN10 7HX 01992 313198 shishbourne.co.uk
THE GOLDEN FLEECE Pub & Dining
The Golden Fleece is an old English pub with a contemporary twist, and one where the food is so good that it has earned an entry in the Michelin Guide for Hotels and Restaurants. Set at the heart of the village of Braughing, Jess and Peter Tatlow’s pub offers a menu of fresh, seasonal and delicious locally sourced food and also caters for diners who require gluten-free meals. As a freehouse at the heart of its community, the Fleece is also able to offer a wide range of real ales, beers, wines and spirits. A takeaway menu is also available.
20 Green End, Braughing SG11 2PG 01920 823555 goldenfleecebraughing.co.uk
RONI’S Fine Dining
Roni’s, set in the heart of Bishop’s Stortford, is a fine dining restaurant where both the quality of food and the service combine to offer guests a memorable experience. Roni’s offers a wide range of traditional dishes, passionately crafted, including a vegan menu. There is a set lunch menu (Tuesday-Saturday) and a set evening menu (Tuesday-Thursday) while superb roasts are served on Sundays. You can also book the private dining room for your group or family. Roni’s is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 12noon, and closed on Monday.
16 North Street, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2LQ 01279 508856 ronisrestaurant.co.uk
BAAN THITIYA
