Anglesey

Isle be back!

When it comes to top spots across the Shire patch, the one everybody returns to time and again is the wild and wonderful island of Anglesey

Sitting just offshore, nestled across the Menai Strait in the Irish Sea, Anglesey has been a favourite with visitors for generations. Whether it’s for a weekend escape, a fortnight of summer fun, an actionpacked watersports trip or even the place you lucky few get to call home, the appeal of island life is as strong today as it was when our ancestors landed on Anglesey’s shores.

Throughout history the island has seen a steady stream of incomers – from the first inhabitants whose prehistoric evidence is still being uncovered, to Roman, Norse, Saxon, Viking and druid communities. Links to the past are visible everywhere, with stately homes and stunning castles decorating the breathtaking natural environment.

Plenty to admire

One such place that is well worth a visit is Plas Newydd, ancestral home of the Marquesses of Anglesey and today a beautifully preserved manor house and gardens to explore, owned by the National Trust. Built in 1470 the house is remarkably intact, having been modified and developed sympathetically over the years, and enjoys stunning views across the Menai Straits. Another superb structure to admire is Beaumaris Castle, one of the finest castles in Wales, built by Edward I over a 45-year period. Funding delays and the distractions of invasions and battles kept getting in the way and it was never entirely finished. The ruins are still an incredible testament to the stonemasons of the time and are now classed as a World Heritage Site, drawing historians and castle fans from around the world.

The wild side of life

Those seeking more ‘active’ attractions will enjoy Anglesey Sea Zoo on the south coast. It claims to be the largest aquarium in Wales and displays over 150 native species, having been opened in 1983 when the owners of a lobster shop realised lobster tanks had become an attraction in themselves! In 2007 it was sold to research ecologists, who have gone on to develop a conservation facility and marine education centre alongside.

Also nearby is Pili Pallas, home to another small zoo, known for its array of butterflies. Bugs, meerkats, small mammals, donkeys and other creatures also keep visitors entertained.

Anglesey has long been a favourite with artists and photographers, drawn by the

dramatic landscapes and beautiful light. So it’s no surprise that it is also home to several artists’ retreats and galleries celebrating the work of local creatives. Oriel Môn, in Llangefni, makes a great family day out: visitors to this art gallery and museum can explore the island through the eyes of artists such as Sir Kyffin Williams, Charles DID YOU KNOW? The castle towers were meant to be Tunnicliffe, Harry Hughes Williams and the Massey sisters. There are also exhibitions covering Anglesey’s remarkable past. 10m taller but the Of course, no stay is complete without a build went over visit to the island’s amazing beaches, be it budget! the cosy coves of Porth Dafarch, the lively shores of Rhosneigr or the vast expanses of Newborough. There’s a coastline for everyone on this small but perfectly formed island. Beaumaris: surely the loveliest of Wales’ many wonderful castles

The road to the isle lies over its famous bridge

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Plas Newydd

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll LL61 6DQ

Beaumaris Castle

Castle Street, Beaumaris LL58 8AP

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Brynsiencyn, Llanfairpwll LL61 6TQ angleseyseazoo.co.uk

Pili Pallas

Penmynydd Road, Menai Bridge LL59 5RP pilipalas.co.uk

Oriel Môn

Rhosmeirch, Llangefni LL77 7TQ

Ben Hur on bikes

A uniquely wacky event, the World Mountain Bike Chariot Races take place on 14th January in Llanwrtyd Wells. Special chariots built using traditional Roman steel, vulcanised rubber and welding techniques have been commissioned for the event, designed to be pulled by two mountain bikes, and will race against each other and the clock to determine the 2023 World Champions. The winning team will have to demonstrate exceptional skill and courage, and must coordinate as a single unit to overcome all challengers along the mile-long course. The event is open to teams of three – two riders and one charioteer – and the entry fee is £25 per team. green-events.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Roman chariot races involved seven laps of the ‘circus’ (ring)

All your own work

Aberystwyth Arts Centre has some great craft sessions this January and February. Try Pottery January and February for Beginners, which covers the for Beginners, which covers the main techniques you’ll need to main techniques you’ll need to progress in ceramics. Screen Printing progress in ceramics. Screen Printing concentrates on using water-based inks concentrates on using water-based inks on fabrics, on fabrics, whilst whilst Drawing Drawing and Digital and Digital Animation will Animation will show you how to show you how to design and animate your own characters using traditional techniques. Finally, Black and White Photography focuses on composition and the traditional technique of developing and printing images in the dark room. Five weeks for £50-£95. Full programme at aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

Cool runnings

Fancy working off those extra pounds post-Christmas? Then grab your trainers for the annual walking or running Reservoir Roundabout Challenge in the Elan and Claerwen Valleys on 7th January. The six dams offer a wonderful backdrop for the 12 or 20-mile event which covers open and challenging upland terrain. The route is waymarked in parts but map-reading skills will also be required. All successful finishers receive a certificate and drinks and refreshments are provided. Entry is £15 and must be booked via sientries.co.uk

Dinosaurs in the dark

Now kids everywhere can experience the fun of a night at the museum, no matter where you live, thanks to National Museum Cardiff’s online sleepover, Dino Nights!, on 11th-12th February. Take a virtual torchlit tour and meet some of the friendly dinosaurs roaming the building. Design a Dino-mask, before settling down for a film before bed. In the morning join a yoga class that’s fun for all the family. Tickets £5.58 via eventbrite.co.uk

Repair and share the love

Repair Cafe Wales has a mission: to tackle the growth in landfill and waste and create a culture of repair and re-use. Events are run by volunteers, who will try to fix anything that is brought to them – and encourage you to learn fixing skills for yourself too. Enjoy a cuppa and have a chat while you wait. Cafes are held regularly at RAY Ceredigion in Aberaeron, The Activity Centre in Montgomery and Presteigne Youth Centre. See repaircafewales.org for details.

Fun at Aberystwyth Arts Centre

DID YOU KNOW? Tom played the First Doctor’s companion in audio plays based on Dr Who

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

4TH-29TH JANUARY

•From 4th January, Free

Community Drop-In, Wyeside

Arts Centre, Builth Wells Sit in the warm and enjoy free tea, co ee and biscuits, together with free wi-fi and board games to play – all welcome! Noon-4pm.

Mother Goose, 6th-21st January

This hilarious pantomime is full of festive fun – think spectacle, magic, slapstick comedy and great songs. A perfect feel-good tonic! Various times. Tickets from £14.

Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood, 7th

February A funny and touching tribute to this much-loved national treasure 7.30pm. Tickets £23.

An Evening Without Kate Bush,

11th February Howl with The Hounds of Love and dance on the moors with Wuthering Heights! Sarah-Louise Young pays glorious homage to the music, fans and mythology of Kate. 7.30pm. Tickets from £16.

Tom Allen: Completely,

24th February Enjoy Tom’s signature acerbic wit and riotous storytelling as he shares his life updates and gets your opinions on life’s dilemmas! 8pm. Tickets £23.

aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

On screen and stage at Builth Wells

NT Live: The Crucible, 26th January A group of young women in Salem find no one is safe from trial. Screened live from the National Theatre, a witch hunt begins in Arthur Miller’s dark parable of power. With Erin Doherty (The Crown) and Brendan Cowell (Yerma). 7pm. Tickets from £12.

As You Like It, 29th January

The Willow Globe Company welcomes you to Arden to enjoy love, laughter, music and philosophy under the greenwood tree, in this sunniest of Shakespeare’s comedies. 3pm. Tickets £12 (child £6). wyeside.co.uk

e angel in the room

Verrocchio’s masterpiece Tobias and the Angel is on view at Oriel Davies Gallery, Newtown until 5th March, on loan from the National Gallery. Alongside are works by several artists in response. Tue-Sat 11am-4pm. Free.

orieldavies.org

Colin Williams

Larks in the park

Furry friends are especially welcome at Powis Castle in February, when they can enjoy a paw-some trail designed just for them, while you admire superb views across the Severn Valley. 10am-4pm. nationaltrust.org.uk

Expanding horizons

Two abstract exhibitions are running until 4th February at MOMA in Machynlleth. Colin Williams: Assemblage is a series of sculptures combining colour and careful construction in a playful yet challenging way. Stephen Kingston: Flux presents painting on steel and aluminum in an explosion of colour. Until 28th January, catch the work of Young Welsh Artists. Free. See moma.cymru

•From 5th January,

Hay-on-Wye Market

Hay hosts a vibrant local market every Thursday, o ering artisan goods, organic produce, antiques and much more. 9am-2.30pm.

•22nd January, ROH: Like

Water for Chocolate, Wyeside

Arts Centre, Builth Wells A screening of The Royal Ballet’s captivating modern family saga, where emotions spill out through cooking in startling and dramatic ways. 2pm. From £15.

•26th January, Arts Society

Mid Wales & Borders Lecture, Royal Oak Hotel, Welshpool

‘Gordon of Khartoum and the Power of Art’ explores why George Joy’s painting of the death of General Gordon defi ned how the British Empire was remembered. 3pm. £6.

•28th January,

Supersonic Queen, The Albert Hall, Llandrindod

Wells Sing along to your favourite anthems with this fi ve-piece live tribute performing all the hits. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15.

•29th January, Dyfi Winter Warm-up, Machynlleth A British Cycling event from Corris Craft Centre into Dyfi Forest for a 12, 20, or 28-mile route on tracks and forest roads. 11am. £29.

e stars are out at Mwldan

Zoe Lyons – Bald Ambition Tour, 19th February

Zoe explores the funny side of her midlife crisis, including buying a sports car, having a brief marital separation and running an ultra marathon that really didn’t end well! 8pm. Tickets £16.

Catrin Finch and Aoife Ní Bhriain, 25th

February Welsh harpist Catrin and Irish violinist Aoife form a virtuoso duo, exploring a musical world of creative possibility, challenge and discovery, inspired by the cultures of their homes. 7.30pm. Tickets £22.

DID YOU KNOW? Iolo is a qualifi ed paraglider and scuba-diving instructor too

Iolo Williams – A Career in Conservation,

28th February Iolo has been a familiar face on TV for nearly 20 years, but before that he worked for the RSPB in Wales. He’ll talk about growing up in Llanwddyn and his work. 7.30pm. Tickets from £18. mwldan.co.uk

Musical delights at e Hafren

Return to Vienna, 7th January

WNO’s Orchestra celebrates the best of Viennese music, including the Blue Danube, Strauss’s rollicking Radetzky March, Korngold’s nostalgic Straussiana: Polka and more. The perfect soundtrack to kick-start the New Year! 4pm. Tickets from £5. Max Boyce, 27th January This legendary Welsh entertainer will be performing a musical version of his lockdown poem ‘When Just the Tide Went Out’, along with some of the songs that have endeared him to both young and old. 7.30pm. Tickets £37. thehafren.co.uk

Get creative in Cardigan

Make It In Wales provides a range of craft workshops, all from Stiwdio 3. Try Free Motion Embroidery & Appliqué on 21st January and learn to use your sewing machine in a new way. Get to grips with Fairisle to knit a cushion using Welsh wool on 4th February. Spread the love and create a beautiful stainedglass heart on 11th February, to give to a special somebody! For a full programme and prices visit makeitinwales.co.uk

Pictures in stitches History in photos

From 13th January enjoy an unusual exhibition of over 20 stitched pictures - half embroidery, half tapestry, depicting life in Mid Wales. Wyeside Arts Centre in Builth Wells is hosting these vivid and colourful images created by psychotherapist Judith Hemming. Infused with the life of this beautiful and much loved landscape, some pieces are playful and abstract, others more realistic. Judith sees her work as painting with thread in the tradition of ‘naive’ or ‘primitive’ folk art. Free entry. For times see wyeside.co.uk Aberystwyth Arts Centre has some fascinating and challenging exhibitions this winter. Until 8th January, We’re Not Just Passing Through… is a portrait of the African and Caribbean communities in the UK by British-Jamaican photographer Vanley Burke and Welsh photojournalist Glenn Edwards, the latter focusing on Wales’ African community.

Showing until 29th January, Refugees from National Socialism in Wales: Learning from the Past for the Future traces the history of refugees who fled central Europe to Wales from the 1930s onwards, drawing parallels with modern-day refugees. Details at

aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

5TH-28TH FEBRUARY

•5th February, Lord Crawshaw

Memorial Walk, Llanwrtyd

Wells Join Green Events commemorating Lt Col Lord Crawshaw’s contribution to walking in Wales. There are two way-marked routes of 12 or 20 miles, and two guided walks of 5 or 8 miles. green-events.co.uk

•11th February, W4NQ

Valentine’s Silent Disco, New

Quay Memorial Hall Over-18s can tear-up the dance fl oor to their personal soundtrack! 8pm. £10. Juniors get a turn on the 10th, 6-8pm (£5). Booking essential via eventbrite.co.uk

•15th & 20th

February, The Royal Opera: The Barber of Seville, Aberystwyth

Arts Centre A live screening (on 15th) of Rossini’s comic opera. Expect heart-melting serenades, ridiculous disguises and a not-quite-fairytale ending. 7pm. (Encore on 20th, 1pm.) From £11. elanvalley.org.uk

•21st February, Starchitects, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Five children dream of reaching the moon from their bedroom… Family fun with thrills, surprises, dance-circus fusion and digital projections. 2pm & 6.30pm. Tickets from £13.50.

•Until 15th April,

A-Z Library Collections, The National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth

Eclectic Welsh items arranged alphabetically – everything from manuscripts and printed material to maps and photographs, archives and art to audiovisual and electronic material. Closed Sundays. Free entry.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

1ST-13TH JANUARY

•Until 15th January, Harry

Potter: A Forbidden Forest

Experience, Arley Hall A nighttime woodland trail experience fi lled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts fi lms. Various time slots. From £31 (child from £24).

•Various dates, Land Rover

Experience, Peckforton Castle,

Tarporley From 1hr to a full day, the chance to drive the world’s most capable vehicles on and o road is an unforgettable experience! From £99.

•11th January, In Person Goal

Setting & Vision Board, Loco,

Nantwich Join Emma Dechoux from Inspired Learning for this 2.5hr workshop which includes self-refl ection, coaching and vision board creation to help focus on your goals and plan your success for 2023. 7pm. £35.

•12th Jan (then every

Thursday), Let's Walk Nantwich,

Nantwich Canal Centre This canal and riverside led walk is an easy way to get active and meet new people, going at a gentle pace. Walks are just an hour long. 10.30am. Free.

•13th January, Sound Bath, Chester Cathedra Angela and Wayne Hassall will narrate, chant and play sounds to vibrate with your body to relax and energise you. Bring wraps and cushions to cocoon yourself. 7pm. £12 (concessions £8).

ROCK THE BOAT

Step aboard for a night out with a di erence. Chester Boats set sail every Saturday for unforgettable nights on the water. Choose your theme, choose your date, and boogie back in time with us through your favourite eras in music, against the spectacular backdrop of the River Dee. ’90s to Now on 11th February takes in the biggest hits of the last three decades – a nostalgia fest for the download generation! 18th February is ’90s Night to jump around with the Britpoppers, and 25th February is for the dancing queens (and kings!) with a 1970s special: you can dance, you can jive and you’ll have the time of your life. emed dress is optional but most de nitely encouraged! Tickets are £34.50 and include a light barbecue-style bu et supper, a disco with professional DJ and a glass of wine on arrival. chesterboat.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

Wham!’s popular Choose Life slogan was designed by Katharine Hamnett

CROP CIRCUIT

Tatton Park’s Scarecrow Festival is back! Search out dozens of scarecrows in the 50-acre gardens and around the farm. is year's theme is Kings and Queens, so keep your eyes peeled for a right royal mix of famous faces and colourful characters – all made out of straw! e event will run from 11th-26th February, and normal opening times and entry prices apply. For details, see tattonpark.org.uk.

© Karen Staniland Platt

STASH IT!

Back to the start…

e annual Quilters Exhibition and Fabric Sale at Nantwich Civic Hall on 15th January is the perfect start to your creative year. ere’ll be traders and exhibitors aplenty, and a show by Kirsty Proctor: ‘Be Happy and Celebrate’. 2023 marks the sale’s 20th year, proving that it continues to be a rm favourite with creative people of all ability levels. Open from 10am-4pm, entry £4. nantwichfabricsale.com Jodrell Bank has relaunched its Lovell Lecture series in the Wolfson Auditorium, and on 19th January Professor Christopher Conselice will present ‘Origins: e Big Bang to Intelligent Life and Everything In Between’. Describing the history of the universe, the talk includes the evolution of galaxies and how these reveal the universe’s properties. 7.30pm, tickets £10. jodrellbank.net

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

Axel Blake arrived on the country’s TV screens in style as Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent. His observational comedy paired with his witty charm captivated the audience, propelling him to be crowned 2022 champion. Heading out on the road with his new show In Style, Axel will be at Northwich Memorial Court on 10th February. e show starts at 7.30pm, tickets are £20 from brioentertainment.org

CREATIVE CREWE

Glorious Gala: e International Classic Ballet

eatre, 22nd January e best of classical dance, with a selection of ballet favourites and Ukrainian folk dance full of energy and passion. 6pm. £27. Smith, Catherine Young, David Eagle and Lee Kyle. 8pm. £12.

Earwig, 16th February Marigold’s research into beetles is unparalleled, but as a deaf woman in 1927 her work is ignored. Earwig combines the world of entomology with Marigold’s ght to be heard amidst appers, jazz and an overbearing husband. 8pm. Tickets £12.50. crewelyceum.co.uk

e Smartest Giant in Town, 29th January Family fun based on the bestselling book. 1pm. Tickets £15.

Comedy in the Attic, 10th February Another great line-up from the Lyceum brings Allyson June

DOING BIRD

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest tells the story of Randle P McMurphy, a chancer who feigns insanity to avoid a prison sentence, and how he changes the lives of the inmates of his mental hospital ward. Don’t miss Nantwich Players’ stage adaptation of Ken Kesey’s 1970s’ classic novel, running at the Players’ eatre from 3rd-11th February. Performance starts 7.45pm, tickets £10. See nantwichplayers.com

Inside secrets

Deep in the Cheshire countryside, Hack Green nuclear bunker stayed secret for half a century. Now you can see for yourself the labyrinth of rooms and authentic equipment set for use in a National Emergency. A tour with the museum’s director on 9th January (noon-2.30pm) and 14th January (5-7pm) will show you all you want to know! £18 (child £10). hackgreen.co.uk

Gig of the month

Roots at Ebenezer's is a monthly live concert spot featuring Americana and roots music from the UK and beyond. On 2nd February guitarist/ singer Pete Price – who’s been praised by Eric Bibb as a “great musician” – will be on stage at 8pm, tickets £10. Book at ebenezers. co.uk. If you can’t be there, it’s also livestreamed from the Crewe venue.

ROLL WITH IT

Want to expand your cookery repertoire? Join Jinny at Adlington Village Hall on 14th January for an Introduction to Sushi. Discover the art and fun of making this Japanese classic, including sushi rolls, nigiri, hand rolls and some sushi-inspired salads. Afterwards, dine together with a paired glass of wine. e three-hour class starts at 6pm and costs £60, with all ingredients and utensils provided. Book at cookingwithjinny.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

14TH-25TH JANUARY

•14th January & 11th February,

Open Events, Reaseheath

College, Nantwich A chance to speak to specialist course sta and get information about fi nance, accommodation, transport and learner support. Courses include food science, fl oristry, sports coaching and veterinary nursing. Free.

•14th & 28th January; 11th &

25th February, Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Ministry of Yoga, Crewe

This four-day course is open to anyone wanting to deepen their practice, to understand how yoga is more than the postures, and for those interested in teacher training. The syllabus is comprehensive and detailed, with practical asana (posture) classes, theory, and pre-reading required before each session. 1-6pm. £350.

•24th January, Chinese New

Year Lunch, The Slow Boat, Chester

Organised by the West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce, celebrate Chinese New Year – Year of the Rabbit – at this month's Networking Lunch, co-hosted by The Slow Boat. 12.30pm. Ticket price on application.

•25th January, Make Your

Own Sacred Blend of Incense, Suzie K at The Secret Garden,

Chester An afternoon workshop making your own incense. All materials are provided. 2pm. £20.

•25th January, Psychic

& Spiritual Event, The Swettenham Arms, Congleton

Clairvoyant Peter Dykes presents three sittings, which involve audience selection, envelope readings and personal messages. 6.45pm. £15.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

3RD-12TH FEBRUARY

•3rd February, Ben Ottewell, The Hive, Winsford See Gomez frontman Ben Ottewell up close and personal, with support from Christie Bratherton and Mirage Music. 7pm. £15.

•4th February, Incluso Al

Fresco, Lion & Swan, Congleton

You'll be greeted on arrival with a limoncello spritz, then the food begins to arrive, with inclusive Prosecco, Italian wines and Italian beer, a DJ and live music. From noon-3pm. £50.

•From 4th February, Snowdrop

Walk, Rode Hall & Gardens,

Scholar Green A beautiful endof-winter walk for all the family amid a wonderfully diverse landscape and over 70 varieties of snowdrops, following an enchanting mile-long route (with options for longer or shorter walks). 11am. £6 (child £2.50, under-5s free).

•10th February, EPW! Wrestling,

Ellesmere Port Civic Hall

Top-class wrestling action suitable for all the family! 7.30pm. £12.

•11th-12th February, Yoga

Weekend, Cranage Hall,

Holmes Chapel Join Kirstin Yoga for an overnight break, with three yoga sessions over the two days, and plenty of time o the mat to do as you please. Practise in an airy, bright studio; swim in the pool or relax in the therapeutic heat of the jacuzzi and steam rooms. You might choose to curl up with a book, go for a walk – or just sleep! Arrive 8.30am. £245.

LIVE AND KICKING!

e Live Rooms in Chester has a great selection of original and tribute acts of every genre!

Livewire AC/DC, 21st January A wall of Marshalls and over two hours of high-voltage rock make a show that’s critically acclaimed for its closeness in look and sound to the real thing. 7pm. Tickets £22. several releases as well as lots of radio play. 7pm. Tickets £8.

DID YOU KNOW? Adwaith is the fi rst band to win the Welsh Music Prize twice

Adwaith, 3rd February An exciting all-female post-punk band from Carmarthen who have had Robert Jon & e Wreck, 9th February Hailing from California, the band bring soaring guitars, infectious grooves and rich harmonies. 7pm. £22.

e Beat ft. Ranking Junior, 25th February Key act of the UK ska revival returns with pop melodies and taut rhythms. 7pm. £20. theliverooms.com

The pen is mightier…

You don’t need to know anything about history to enjoy Jo Bell’s poetry writing workshop ‘Histories’ on 14th January, in the Old Library at the Silk Museum, Maccles eld. Jo will show you how to use history as a tool in your poetry kit, enjoying the new angles and inspiration it o ers. e workshop runs 1-4pm, and tickets are £25 from eventbrite.co.uk

Wild about animals?

Is your child in school years 4 to 6? Do they love animals and want to see how they live and adapt to the world around them? If they’re a member of Chester Zoo, Junior Rangers would be perfect for them! e ve-week camp runs every Sunday from 15th January-12th February at 10.30am-noon or 2-3.30pm, £60 per child. Book at chesterzoo. org

CROWDED HOUSE

Ronald Harwood’s play Quartet is set in a genteel home for retired musicians. Reg, Wilf and Cissy rub along pretty well until their comfortable existence is interrupted by the arrival of new resident Jean – an opera diva and Reg’s ex-wife. Chester Little eatre’s production runs from 14th-21st January and tickets are £10. chesterlittletheatre.co.uk

A TASTE OF CHESTER

Chester Vegan Market is taking over the Town Hall Square again. e event on 15th January will bring together an incredible selection of vegan street-food vendors, artisan bakers, craft brewers, ethical jewellers, small-batch soapers, local artists, zero-waste champions and lots more. Open from 10.30am-4pm, details at veganmarkets.co.uk

THE STAGE IS SET…

Chester’s Storyhouse hits the right notes every time.

e Snow Queen, until 15th January Adventure to the mystical north in this unforgettable tale that celebrates family and friendship. Join little Gerda on her epic journey through the seasons to save her best friend Cei. Various times. Tickets £18.

Faustus: at Damned Woman, 3rd-18th February

is gripping drama explores what we must sacri ce

DID YOU KNOW?

The Faust legend is based on a real person: Johann to achieve greatness, in a reimagining of the legend Georg Faust who died in 1541 of Faust, who sells his soul to the devil in return for unlimited knowledge and pleasure. Various times. Tickets from £18.

e Rocky Horror Show, 27th February - 4th March

e ultimate rock ’n’ roll musical lled with frolics, frocks and frivolity. Recommended age 12-plus. Various times. From £18.65. storyhouse.com

CHEESE PLEASE

e Cheeseyard in Knutsford invites you for another of its famous Cheese & Wine evenings on 20th January. ‘Around the World’ will introduce you to six of the best cheeses paired with wines from all corners of the globe, beginning at 6.45pm with a glass of Prosecco and nishing at around 8.15pm. Tickets are £45, pre-booking is essential. See cheeseyard.co.uk

SALUTE!

Italy is by far the largest wine producer in the world, and when the Chester-based Wine School of Cheshire presents ‘Italy from North to South’ on 27th January you can learn about – and taste! – some of its most famous wines. e event starts at 7pm, and tickets are £49.95. Book at cheshire.wine

Let battle commence

Join in the 50th anniversary of the rst re-enactment in Nantwich on 21st January. A smashing day out starts at 10am with music, plays, pike and musket displays and a horse parade, leading to the all-important Battle on Mill Island at 2pm.

battleofnantwich.org.

DON’T LOOK AWAY

A chance to see Scottish rockers Big Country perform an acoustic set. Alexander’s Live in Chester hosts the supergroup on 2nd February. Expect tracks from e Seer, Steeltown and triple Grammy-nominated e Crossing. Doors 7pm, tickets £30. alexanderslive.seetickets.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

12TH-24TH FEBRUARY

•12th February, Bread Making

Class, Speckled Hen @ Terra Nova School, Jodrell Bank

This course is ideal for learning the basics of bread making, including malted brown rolls and Irish soda bread, and includes an introduction to sourdough and traditional Italian focaccia. 9.30am. £60.

•17th February, Disco Inferno,

Northwich Memorial Court

For all those who dreamed of going to New York’s Studio 54, Disco Inferno is a spectacular all-singing, all-dancing celebration of everything D.I.S.C.O. With crowd engagement and interaction. 7.30pm. £23.

•19th February,

The Ashley Hall 3k Run

Medals to all fi nishers, prize money and trophies to the winners and category winners. Take part no matter what your age (5-plus) or ability! Entry £10.

•24th February, 90s Jam Live, Shavington Club, Crewe A full live production including fantastic vocals and light show covering ’90s dance classics. A night not to be missed! 8pm. £15.

•Until 12th March, ‘Cheshire’s

Salt Towns; a Glittering Roman Legacy’, Lion Salt Works, Marston, nr. Northwich

Explore why Cheshire salt was so important to the wellbeing of Roman soldiers, how they protected and distributed it, and how the salt was acquired without the need to mine. Entry to the exhibition is free.