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April 2017
Living life in the East
APRIL 2017
Make the most of where you live
TOM JONES COMES TO HOLKHAM HALL Issue 143
Sunday 23rd July - Full Ticket Information Inside
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The A-Class. Athletic at first sight.
Introducing the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Incorporating essential changes that refine a modern icon, the new A-Class continues to stride ahead of the competition. It’s sharp, sporty looks and bold contemporary interior still defines the revived generation of Mercedes-Benz, and with five model lines and a choice of engines available it offers the perfect opportunity to reflect your true individuality. Now with a larger media display, reversing camera with dynamic guidelines and CO2 emissions as low as 89 g/km, we understand the importance of detail. With options that cater to every taste, the A-Class allows you to define your road presence. Start every day at pole position. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class range: urban 30.7(9.2)72.4(3.9), extra urban 50.4(5.6)-88.3(3.2), combined 40.9(6.9)-80.7(3.5). CO2 emissions 162-89 g/km. Official EU regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz A 160 Sport £20,985 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.
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eastlife would like to thank its
CONTRIBUTORS ABBY KNIGHT Freelance writer and spa lover GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie
NICOLA OSBORNE Mummy, blogger and frustrated novelist SUE COOKE Motoring journalist TRACEY DEAN Writer and photographer KATE GOULD Award-winning garden designer KATRINA OTTER Wedding planner extraordinaire COLLETTE HOEFKENS Artist & proprietor at Norton Way Gallery CLAIRE LANCASTER Lifestyle and interior blogger AMANDA FRENCH Foodie, blogger & PR pro PUBLISHER Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696 EDITOR Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904 PRODUCTION MANAGER Craig Lewis craig@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142 SOCIAL MEDIA Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539 ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129 SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635
A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader, Spring has finally sprung across the region, and with it comes the hope of warm weather and some fantastic days out. With the counties alive with colour, attractions reopening their doors, pop up events and the first long weekend of the year, it’s time to get out and about! This issue is jam packed with things to do. We’ve listed the best Easter events, top 10 antique fairs and upcoming food and drink festivals. Perhaps our guides to the Suffolk Coast and Norfolk Broads can tempt you to book a mini-break this Easter? There’s also ideas on how to make the most of the warmer weather with cycling routes, golf courses and dog-walks with pub stops! Elsewhere our Cambridge Foodie is shouting about the new openings in the city and we have a guide to the city’s biggest spring events; turn to page 101 for more details. Happy Easter everyone! Emma Kemsley
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reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.
2017 GardenShow240x168 East Mag.qxp_Layout 1 16/03/2017 11:09 Page 1
Garden SHOW
The Herts
29TH-30TH APRIL & 1ST MAY AT KNEBWORTH HOUSE SPECIALIST GARDEN EXHIBITORS INCLUDING FLORAL & CRAFT MARQUEES - INCLUDES ENTRY TO GARDENS!
Spring y lida Bank Ho nd Weeke
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HOUSE, GARDENS, PARK, ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND & DINOSAUR TRAIL
Knebworth Park, Nr Stevenage Tel: 01438 812661 Own slip road off, A1(M) J7 SG1 2AX,15 miles from M25 (J23). Ample Parking. Tickets include entry to Gardens, Dinosaur Trail, Park and Adventure Playground £9.50 per person, U3s Free. Family tickets £34.00 (House admission extra). Garden Show 10am – 5pm. (Last admission 4.15pm) - House 12 noon – 5pm (last entry 4pm).
10% discounted tickets available online at:
www.knebworthhouse.com
APRIL 13-17 NEWS FLASH A round-up of monthly news and events
CONTENTS
27-33 SPRING DAYS OUT Easter events for everyone 36-37 TOP 10 ANTIQUE FAIRS Hunt out a bargain 46-47 EXPLORE THE SUFFOLK COAST Everything you need to know 49-51 DOG-FRIENDLY Tails About Town and dog walks 53-56 LITTLE EAST Mum’s the Word and Easter egg hunts 57 EDUCATION The advantages of tutoring 59-65 FOOD & DRINK News, the Cambridge Foodie & festivals 67-73 HEALTH Cycling routes and golf courses
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75 FASHION How to style a scarf this spring 77 WEDDINGS Spring wedding essentials 85-95 INTERIORS Wet rooms, saving engery, gardens and Suffolk coastal property makeover 97-99 ARTS Monthly column and the latest news 101-107 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Top 10 Cambridge events 109-113 ESSEX The only way is Brentwood 115-123 SUFFOLK A guide to Bury St Edmunds 125-135 NORFOLK Secret Norfolk, Swaffham & Wymondham 137-143 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Bedford, Hertford and events
23 65
83 109
EASTER ADVENTURE QUEST Fri 14 – Mon 17 April 11am – 5pm Be a challenge champion! Set off to crack the clues and claim your chocolate reward.
Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
NEWS FLASH
NEWS FLASH
Suzi Quatro
FIRST HIGHLIGHTS ANNOUNCED FOR HOLT FESTIVAL 2017 Music, chat, comedy, burlesque and cabaret for North Norfolk’s premier arts festival, 22-30 July. The award-winning Holt Festival has rapidly established itself as one of the East of England’s most anticipated events. Festival organisers have announced the first 14 highlights for the July 2017 arts extravaganza, giving an intriguing sample of the full festival programme that will be revealed in May. Visitors to this year’s festival can expect the likes of 70s leather clad rocker Suzi Quatro, the ever-popular Jasper Carrott and a rare UK visit from Spanish opera stars Javier Agulló and Amparo Navarro. Also watch out for million selling, Brit Award winning local boy Humphrey Berney on temporary leave from Blake. A night of homegrown Americana, Roots in the Wood, will see a double bill of Norfolk heroes The Vagaband and The Wangford Bass Combo featuring BJ Cole, the latest project from the grizzled Godfather of British alt. country, Hank Wangford. Talks include former Observer Literary and Associate Editor, Robert McCrum, Professor Robert Winston and Margaret Hodge. Tickets are now on sale, visit www.holtfestival.org
Chinese State Circus
JOIN THE CHINESE STATE CIRCUS The internationally acclaimed Chinese State Circus is touring the UK with stops this month in Chantry Park Ipswich from 4-9 April, Royal Norfolk Showground, Norwich from 11-16 April and Orsett Showground, Essex from 18-23 April. An innovatively spectacular new production, titled ‘Dynasty’ projects into a contemporary setting an art form that has thrilled audiences for more than 2,000 years where low-tech everyday objects are transformed into hi-tech acrobatic equipment. Hurtling porcelain jars, dynamically spinning plates, balancing upon gigantic pyramids of tables and chairs framed by the delicate strands of silk supporting cascading aerialists are all part of the show. The nonstop action from start to finale as thrill follows thrill is set to a soaring musical score accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Chinese percussion. Book tickets at www.chinesestatecircus.com
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Helmingham is famous for its Grade 1 Listed gardens,
redesigned by Lady Tollemache (a Chelsea Gold Medallist) set in a 400 acre deer park surrounding a moated Tudor Hall. Visitors are enchanted by the herbaceous borders
within the walled kitchen gardens, the herb & knot
garden, rose and wild gardens. A delicious range of local food is served in the Coach House Tearooms
and the Stable Shops offer a wide array of local produce, plants, garden accessories and local crafts.
Many special events including The Festival of Classic & Sports Cars and specialist Plant Fairs are held throughout the season and groups are warmly welcomed. Please contact us for further details of group booking discounts. Open May – September Tues, Wed, Thurs and Sun 12:00 – 17:00
Helmingham Hall Gardens, Helmingham, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6EF t: 01473 890799 e: events@helmingham.com w: www.helmingham.com Photos copyright of Marcus Harper
Stamford Shakespeare Company
“One of the finest things to do this summer” - The Sunday Times
6th June - 26th August 2017 Last summer over 34,000 people experienced the magic of an evening at Tolethorpe Hall. As the sun slowly sets, enjoy a picnic in the beautiful grounds, then take your seat, protected from summer showers, and see a stage like no other. For 10% off ticket price quote code TOLEEASTLIFE when booking
For more information and to book online:
www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk
☎ BOX OFFICE: 01780 756133
EACH’S SUMMER OF COLOUR East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) will be bringing a splash of colour to local towns again this year, with nine Colour Dash events across the region. Colour dashes are five-kilometre (3.1-mile) fun runs – the ‘fun’ aspect being that participants are showered with clouds of coloured powder paint as they run! This year’s locations include The Walks in King’s Lynn on 23 April, Eaton Park, Norwich on 14 May, Christchurch Park Ipswich on 28 May, Normanston Park Lowestoft on 9 July, Central Park Chelmsford on 16 July and Kings Ely on 12 August. Later summer dates include Nowton Park Bury St Edmunds on 3 September, Walden Park Saffron Walden on 10 September, and the colour dash returns to The Walks in King’s Lynn on 17 September. Last summer more than 5,300 runners took part across seven locations, raising £150,000. Early bird tickets cost £17.50 per adult and £7.50 per child. To book your place at one of EACH’s Colour Dashes as tickets are released, visit www.each.org.uk Credit: Matthew Usher Photography
LUKE WRIGHT - THE TOLL AT CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION Leading British poet, broadcaster and festival curator Luke Wright is to follow the international success of his first play ‘What I Learned From Johnny Bevan’ with a selection of poems from his new book ‘The Toll’. He is set to take the stage at the Cambridge Junction on 21 April where he will turn his lyrical gaze onto the trials and tolls facing Brexit Britain, touring the flat-roofed pubs and half bought couches of Brexit Britain as it struggles with doubt, duty and half-cut nights spent shouting impotently at Question Time on TV. Wright makes poetry accessible, normal even, with verse that ranges from the genuinely laugh out loud funny to heartbreakingly poignant - linked with patter that rivals the very best stand up comedians. Now he’s back in Cambridge to subject the English language to a series of new tricks for our amusement. Tickets £11, £7, Tel: 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk
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Winston Toomey, 25
FOR YOU
They were your age, or younger. The brave young Americans who gave their lives in World War II. We celebrate them all at the Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial – and now we’ve put a face to their memory. Come and meet them for one very special Memorial Day weekend. Call 01954 210 350, email cambridge@abmc.gov or visit www.abmc.gov for more information. Cambridge American Cemetery, Madingley Road, Coton, Cambridge CB23 7PH
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Faces of Cambridge
27–28 May
Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial
15/03/2017 10:36
BAKE FOR HELP THE HEROES Help for Heroes (H4H) is once again asking the great British public to dust off their aprons and get baking to raise lots of dough for our wounded, injured and sick personnel, veterans and their families. Taking place 15-30 April, you could hold a tea and cake event at work, school, in your local community centre or simply invite friends around to your home for a slice of cake for a donation and a catch up. Register and fundraise for the chance to win a Kenwood kMix. A free fundraising pack will be sent to every Bake for Heroes organiser to help make each event a success. The packs include collecting boxes, a sweepstake game, bunting, balloons and pricing stickers. To register or for more information visit www.bakeforheroes.org.uk or call 01980 846459.
LINE-UP REVEALED FOR CAMBRIDGE SPRING LITERARY FESTIVAL 2017 This year’s programme taking place from 18-23 April, grapples with the critical tensions of the modern world without losing sight of the daily emotions, comforts, pleasures and creativity that shape the ever-changing human experience. Against this backdrop the festival celebrates the place that art, culture and discussion can play in transforming lives, uniting communities and enriching society. Joining the spring party this year is English actress, model and swinging sixties icon Charlotte Rampling; Vogue Editor Alexandra Shulman; fragrance guru Jo Malone and Innocent Drinks co-Founder Richard Reed; best-selling children’s authors Jacqueline Wilson; Labour MP’s Harriet Harman and Jess Philips; Women’s Equality Party Co-Founder Catherine
CAMBRIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES LINE UP The latest names have been announced for Cambridge Folk Festival 2017, which takes place 27-30 July at Cherry Hinton Hall. Taking to the stage will be legendary folk singer and respected song collector Shirley Collins, a festival exclusive from multi-platinum selling Indigo Girls, and English country twin-sister duo Ward Thomas, all part of a completely female line-up on Main Stages 1 and 2 on the Friday.
Mayer; controversial contemporary painter and sculptor Maggi Hambling; and Michelin star celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, among many more. For the full programme of events visit www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com
International superstar and multiple Grammy Award-winner Olivia Newton-John, originally from Cambridge, Grammy nominee Beth Nielsen Chapman and SOCAN Award-winner Amy Sky bring their collaboration ‘Liv On’ exclusively to the Festival on Saturday evening. Acclaimed US singer-songwriter Loudon Wainwright III, promises another awe-inspiring Festival performance on the Sunday. Tickets are now on sale and start from £27.50. www.cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
DON’T MISS Tom Jones at Holkham Hall Sunday July 23rd
Holkham Estate, LHG Live and Live Promotions are delighted to announce that legendary artist Tom Jones is set to perform at one of England’s grandest stately homes - Holkham Hall in north Norfolk - on Sunday 23 July 2017 in a spectacular outdoor concert. Tom Jones’ distinctive voice and iconic records have earned him a place as one of the best loved artists ever to emerge from the 1960s, with an eclectic musical mix spanning pop, rock, soul, R&B, dance, country and gospel. With more than 100 million record sales under his belt, including the instantly recognisable hits It’s Not Unusual, Kiss, Delilah and What’s New Pussycat, he is without doubt a living legend. Tom continues to garner popularity as both a live performer and recording artist after five incredible decades, and at the age of 76, has earned the best reviews of his career for his most recent albums Long Lost Suitcase, Spirit In The Room and Praise & Blame. Tom is currently a coach on ITV’s popular talent show The Voice, and has appeared in several films, including ‘Mars Attacks’. With numerous tours the world over under his belt, and a legion of fans, his extraordinary career was recognised in 2006 through his knighthood from Her Ma jesty the Queen, and a string of prestigious music awards, including BRIT Awards for Best Male and Outstanding Contribution to Music, a Silver Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Hitmaker Award from the [US] Songwriters Hall of Fame, GQ Man Of The Year, and the prestigious [UK] Music Industry Trust Award. The Earl and Countess of Leicester said, “The parkland surrounding Holkham Hall is a perfect setting for Holkham’s outdoor concert and we are thrilled to have such a high profile artist appearing here this year.”
The outdoor concert at Holkham on Sunday 23 July will feature a collection of Tom’s most popular hits across the decades - including his latest albums - promising fans an unforgettable evening at the height of the summer. The concert will take place in the east park of the grounds of the estate in view of the fact that the popular two-day Country Fair will be taking place over the same weekend. Colin Ward MD of Live Promotions, promoter said,”We have worked with Holkham Hall for several years on a number of very successful concerts and are delighted to be bringing one of the world’s greatest performers Tom Jones to Norfolk with LHG Live in July. This will be the event of the summer.” Liz Doogan-Hobbs MBE, CEO of LHG Live, promoter said, “We are delighted to be working with Live Promotions to bring Tom Jones to Holkham. Tom is such a legend; a wonderful performer, and we are delighted to be working with him and his team again. The Holkham Estate is a truly remarkable venue and the perfect choice for a summer evening concert.” Tickets are standing only, but concert-goers are encouraged to bring along a blanket or canvas chair so they can relax and enjoy the exquisite setting of the parkland, whilst Tom enthrals on the stage. There will be ample concessions for food and drink. Book your tickets now, at any of the following links:
www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk www.tomjones.com www.ticketmaster.co.uk www.lhgtickets.com
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Call us on 01728 666 300 or visit www.suffolkhideaways.co.uk Thinking of letting your holiday home? If you are interested in letting out your holiday home then please call Suffolk Hideaways on 01728 666 300
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22/02/2017 14:20
LIFESTYLE
OLLY MURS OLLY MURS MAKES HIS DEBUT AT NEWMARKET NIGHTS
This year, Newmarket Nights are spoiling us with an amazing line-up of artists to keep us dancing through the summer. On 18 August, Olly Murs makes his debut at the venue, we caught up with the star to chat about his latest album and preparing for the show… Q: YOUR NEW ALBUM ‘24 HRS’ IS YOUR 4TH CONSECUTIVE NUMBER 1 ALBUM; THAT MUST BE A GREAT FEELING? Olly: Amazing. I’m very proud to have four consecutive number 1 albums. I never expected in my wildest dreams that I would’ve got this far so, absolutely delighted! Q: WHAT DO YOU RECKON HAS BEEN THE APPEAL OF YOUR MUSIC AND YOURSELF TO MAKE YOU THE MOST SUCCESSFUL MALE ARTIST TO EVER COME FROM THE X FACTOR? Olly: I’d like to think that I’ve done some great songs and, think people love what I do…I just don’t give anything, I mean this album’s probably the most heartbreaking, most honest album that I’ve done. My album’s are happy and people enjoy listening to them and with this album in particular it’s still happy, still got lots of that vibe on it. Q: YOU MENTION THIS IS YOUR MOST HONEST ALBUM TO DATE, DO YOU FEEL YOU ARE CONSTANTLY PROGRESSING AS AN ARTIST AND SONGWRITER THROUGH YOUR ALBUMS? Olly: Yeah, 50/50. I did run out of ideas. I wanted to do something different and I felt with this album I just didn’t know where to go next. What I was gonna do? I felt like writing about what’s been actually, genuinely
happening was the right thing to do. I’m just really happy that I did this album and the fact that it went to number 1 and people really like it. Q: YOU’RE UNDERTAKING A MASSIVE HEADLINE ARENA TOUR IN MARCH, AND IN THE SUMMER YOU’VE GOT A HUGE RUN OF OUTDOOR SHOWS THAT WILL SEE YOU COME TO NEWMARKET. HOW DO THEY VARY IN TERMS OF WHAT YOU PUT INTO THEM AND WHAT YOU GET OUT OF IT, FROM THE INDOORS TO THE OUTDOORS? Olly: I think it’s fun, it’s really fun being outside and you know the show that we’re doing at Newmarket is a different gig for me, I’ve never done anything like this before. I’ve done racecourse gigs in the past but not this sort of size. I can’t wait, I mean, what’s better? Go to a racecourse, I can go there during the day and have a little flutter on a couple of the races and then do a gig in the evening. Perfect. Q: HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT CHOOSING YOUR SET LIST? Olly: It’s going to be difficult but you’ve just gotta play the hits and the songs that people know; that’s what I’ll do with the set, make it as entertaining as possible. I’ll throw in a few covers there as well, have a bit of a laugh with the fans and it’ll be a really fun day out!
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“
I’m sure we’ll be sinking a few shots before the show just to get into the racecourse spirit.
“
Q: HAVE YOU GOT ANY KIND OF PRE-STAGE RITUAL THAT YOU DO BEFORE YOU GO ON? Olly: Me and the band have a little huddle up before the show and we sing one of our songs, well not a song, a song that we’ve got as a team and we’ve been doing it for the last six/seven years so it’s a bit of a ritual but I’m sure we’ll be sinking a few shots before the show as well just to get into the racecourse spirit. Q: IT MUST BE GREAT BEING ABLE TO GET OUT AND PLAY TO YOUR FANS, ESSENTIALLY IN THEIR AREAS WITHOUT THEM HAVING TO TRAVEL A FEW HOURS INTO A MAJOR CITY Olly: These are shows you get to see the real people; they are days out, family days at racecourses. I feel like going to a racecourse is so different and people get to see a different vibe, set and sound. There’s some of these people that come to the racecourse who are people that maybe have never been to a music festival before. I just thought its refreshing for me to do a gig like this. I’m really looking forward to having a day out with my mates at Newmarket racecourse as well as everyone else and then at the end of it, get up and sing, have some fun and have a great night. Q: YOU VISITED NEWMARKET RACECOURSE LAST
SUMMER WITH YOUR FRIENDS; DID YOU HAVE A GOOD TIME? Olly: Yeah, I went last year for my mate’s birthday, it was such a good day out and a couple of my mates have been to a few gigs there before and loved it. When I did a few racecourses a couple of years ago we didn’t go to Newmarket so, it was great to get this gig in and I can’t wait - it’s gonna be a right laugh. It’s a good day out and all my mates are gonna come along and we’re gonna make a proper day of it. Hopefully it’s a lovely day weather-wise, hopefully it’s not too wet and people have a nice summer and really enjoy it. Q: WHEN YOU GO OUT ON TOUR PLAYING THESE TYPES OF SHOWS, DO YOU GET TO SEE MUCH OF THE LOCALITY? Olly: I haven’t been to many racecourses over the last few years as I’ve been so busy but I love the atmosphere, I love the people you get out there, and to put a few bets on. The only problem for me on the day of these racecourse gigs is not to be drinking too much! So I’ve had a few little sly beers, the atmosphere is great; it doesn’t get much better in the summer. If you’re a fan of my music or not a fan of my music, it’ll be a fantastic day out and I look forward to putting a show on, I’ll make sure everyone goes home happy and has a good day!
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Explore our vast range of home furnishings
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Opening Times Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5.30pm Sunday: 10am - 4pm
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Relax and enjoy a Latte or Cappuccino in our café
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A133
WE ARE HERE Colchester Road
TO TENDRING Crown Lane
TO COLCHESTER TO FRINTON The Black Boy Premier Inn
TO CLACTON
A133
Thorpe Road
WEELEY
LIFESTYLE
PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP written by Amanda French
This spring and Easter there’s plenty to do across the region. From fairs and festivals to walks and events, there’s a whole array of exciting and fun activities. BEDFORDSHIRE Fire up your imaginations as St George’s Festival returns to Wrest Park from Saturday 22 to Sunday 23 April, 10am-6pm. England’s patron saint will be celebrated with plenty of pomp, pageantry and patriotic flag waving, with a host of entertainers spanning 2,000 years of history lined up to mark his special day and see the ultimate showdown with the fire-breathing dragon, at Wrest Park’s annual St George’s Day celebration. Nonsense and frivolity will be the order of the day with entertainers including the popular Peterkin the Jester, kids mini battles, storytelling, circus skills, musicians and even hobby horse jousting for all those budding St Georges. A colourful living history encampment will also provide a rolling programme of entertainment throughout each day. There will be an authentic historic market to wander around and a variety of catering offers including a café in the beautiful surroundings of the Wrest Park Orangery. www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Saturday 22 April will see the Bedford Corn Exchange in St Pauls Square play host to ‘From the Jam: In the city 40th anniversary tour’. The event features former Jam bassist Bruce Foxton, legendary vocalist and guitarist Russell Hastings and drummer Mike Randon performing as part of their 40th anniversary tour. Visit www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk to find out more.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE Ely is preparing itself once again for its four-day extravaganza to celebrate the origins of the humble eel. Organised by the Visit Ely team, Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend runs from 28 April to 1 May. This year, as always, sees the return of the Eel Food Safari which runs all weekend where a selection of local food outlets provide special dishes inspired by the eel theme. The Eel Parade kicks off Saturday’s Eel Day with a colourful array of eels processing through Ely’s High Street, down to the river where a whole host of eel related activities take place. Special highlights include the Town Criers’ Competition and the World Eel Throwing Competition (no eels will be harmed in this competition, just stuffed toys!). Rounding up the weekend is the ever popular two day Food and Drink Festival where over 60 artisan and specialist food and drink traders will be showcasing their wares. This year welcomes inter-
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Dance Consortium presents a Sadler’s Wells Production
tango with a 21st century twist
HHHH
‘m¡longa casts a magic spell’ Metro
HHHH
‘a very beautiful show indeed’ Daily Telegraph
Fri 2 – Sat 3 June 2017 7.30pm
Book Tickets:
milongatour.co.uk Co-produced with Théâtre Vidy-Lausanne; Migros Culture Percentage Dance Festival Steps; Théâtre du Jorat, Mézierès; deSingel international arts campus, Antwerp; Les Théâtres de la Ville de Luxembourg; Les Nuits de Fourvière/Département du Rhône; Movimentos Festwochen der Autostadt in Wolfsburg; Festspielhaus St Pölten; Fondazione Musica per Roma; Eastman.
www.saffronhall.com 0845 548 7650 Untitled-1 1
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nationally renowned chef Theo Randall and current MasterChef’s winner Jane Devonshire to the Cookery Theatre, who will be demonstrating a variety of dishes alongside some of much loved local chefs. For the full Ely Eel Festival programme check out www.elyeelfestival.co.uk The English Touring Opera is coming to the Cambridge Arts Theatre in April performing Puccini’s Tosca on 25, 28, 29 April and Gilbert & Sullivan’s Patience on 26-27 April. Enjoy an Italian opera brimming with lust, corruption and intrigue or an English sung all-dancing comedy with willowy poets, sighing maidens and burly officers galore. Plenty of humour and tunes promised. This Easter The Varsity Hotel & Spa (www.thevar sityhotel.co.uk) is celebrating with a gingerbread house-making masterclass with a boozy twist. On Sunday the 23 April, the luxury Cambridge hotel will be launching Gin & Gingerbread, combining a gin master class with mini gingerbread house-making. Set at the hotel’s sixth floor bar and brasserie, SIX, guests are invited to build gingerbread houses and learn about one of the nation’s favourite tipples before enjoying a two-course skyline dinner. Tickets are £18.50 per person for the master class only and £39 per person including the Gin & Gingerbread masterclass and two-course meal.
Gin & Gingerbread Masterclass
ESSEX Saturday 22 April will see the Civic Theatre taken over for ‘Nights on Broadway’, a tribute to the BeeGees. Featuring the best of their music from the 60s through the 90s, there’ll be a blend of classic hits, acoustic medleys and dance floor favourites all accompanied live by a six-piece band. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres The National Flower Show returns to the Hyland’s Grand Pavilion between Friday 19 - Sunday 21 May this year. Full of spectacular flower displays and amazing show gardens, it also offers the opportunity to attend talks with the region’s leading gardening experts. The show will be opened by the crowned king of gardening, Monty Don and there will be the opportunity to meet him in the Gardening Theatre. For more information visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/national-flower-show HERTFORDSHIRE Knebworth Barns will be hosting a special prebooked afternoon tea on the 30 April, 23 July and 10 September. Enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with homemade jam and clotted cream, mini tea fancies, tea or coffee and a glass of sparkling wine. Tickets also include admission to the gardens and the park and must be purchased in advance. This year Knebworth House will be hosting over 30 special event days during the season. Some old
Knebworth House
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Picnic themed cafe serving local homemade food to eat in or takeaway. VISIT OUR SHOP
For an eclectic shopping experience
Breakfast. Lunches. Light Snacks
Opening times: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm | Sun 10am - 4pm
Brick Yard Barn, Norwich Road, Hedenham, Bungay NR35 2DE
01508 483947
Discounted Park tickets online at woburnsafari.co.uk
ELEPHANT APPRECIATION WEEKEND 14TH-17TH APRIL
THE WILD IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK See Peppa Pig Bank Holiday Monday 17th April at intervals
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Just off J13 of the M1 or the A5 (MK43 0XB or MK17 9QN). Open from 10am to 5pm, closing at 6pm. www.woburnsafari.co.uk info@woburnsafari.co.uk Telephone: 01525 290407 J3324 WSP Eastlife Mag ad 148x107_Apr17.indd 1
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ST GEORGE’S FESTIVAL Sat 22 – Sun 23 April 10am – 6pm Immerse yourself in the biggest St George’s Day celebration in the country.
Silsoe, Bedfordshire MK45 4HR
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
Amongst the producers attending during the day and who will also be included into the evening menu will be Camcattle with their Red Poll beef, Norfolk Saffron and Fen Farm with their Baron Bigod raw milk cheese. Slow Food is a global movement with over 300,000 individual members. It is a way of eating and living which brings together people who have a passion about good healthy food and who also have a strong commitment to local communities and the environment, following the Slow Food ethos of Good, Clean and Fair food for all. Visit www.slowfoodanglia.org For a family day out this Easter head to Amazona Zoo, one of Norfolk’s leading attractions in Cromer. Families can explore and learn about a varied and fascinating selection of animals native to South America. Visit the zoo on Easter Sunday and each child will receive a free cream egg! www.amazonazoo.co.uk 1940s vintage weekend in Lavenham
favourites make a return such as the Jousting events being held on 16-17 April for Easter, and 18 June for Father’s Day. Green fingered types will enjoy the Hertfordshire Garden Show on 29–30 April to 1 May, and little ones can enjoy Dino Adventure on 29 May and 6 August. 2017 will also see in some new events; DogFest on 24-25 June, The Great British Food Festival held on 22-23 July, Classic Ibiza 19 August, and the Great British Prom on 20 August. www.knebworthhouse.com The Living Crafts fair returns to Hatfield House this year from the 4 – 7 May. Meet hundreds of designers and makers from across the UK at this event which promotes the very best of British crafts. Enjoy lectures, demonstrations and a packed schedule of workshops from origami to oil paintings. Visit www.livingcrafts.co.uk to find out more. NORFOLK Pop along to the Slow Food Anglia Festival at Holkham Hall on Saturday 8 April. Around 26 different food producers and street food traders will set up during the day for visitors. Cookery demonstrations, workshops and talks will also be interspersed throughout the day. The day ends with a Sagra feast for up to 200 guests with the menu prepared by Slow Food Chef Alliance Member Mark Matless from Bite the Bullet Catering in Norwich.
SUFFOLK The East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival on 14 May sees up to 10 people paddle a boat with a drummer beating in time and a helm at the tail steering the course. Why not get involved and create your own entry (or just pop down and watch them race). There will be at Nicholas Everitt Park from 10am – 5pm on the day. Find out more at www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk Lavenham will be taking a step back in time this May. From 19-22 May it will host a 1940s vintage event to commemorate the 75th anniversary of US Forces starting to arrive in the East of England in support of World War II. The Swan at Lavenham Hotel & Spa has joined with vintage events group, The Baker Boy Collective, to host a series of 1940s events across the village. Amongst the many events being planned across the village are a 1940s swing dance, vintage afternoon tea, film show and a history talk about the 487th Bombardment Group, 8th USAAF (United States Army Air Force). There will be a walk to Lavenham airfield and a commemorative service in the church, while you can expect to see 1940s vehicles and vintage fashions worn around the village by The Baker Boy Collective group, together with 1940s re-enactors. And on Sunday, 21 May Lavenham will be teaming up with the Vintage Affair at Hedingham Castle, a short and picturesque drive away in nearby Essex.
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LIVE ON MARS A Tribute to David Bowie
UK TOUR 2017
T U E S D AY 1 6 M AY
GUILDFORD G Live 01483 369 350
T H U R S D AY 1 8 M AY
SOUTHEND Cliffs Pavilion 01702 351 135
F R I D AY 2 6 M AY
CAMBRIDGE Corn Exchange 01223 357 851
M O N D AY 2 9 M AY
WATFORD Colosseum 01923 571 102
0844 0444 0844 A
C H A S
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MOSCOW PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA conducted by Yuri Botnari
Freddy Kempf is one of the UK’s most popular pianists and his interpretation of Rachmaninov’s epic 3rd Piano Concerto will be a highlight of the season. The concert begins with music from Tchaikovsky’s much loved Swan Lake and ends with Mussorgsky’s grand and opulent Pictures at an Exhibition. THUR 25 MAY 2017 | 7.30PM
Box Office 01923 571102
www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
BARGAIN HUNT WE LIST THE BEST 10 ANTIQUE FAIRS IN THE REGION
Whether you’re hunting for an heirloom or looking for a bargain, you’ll find it at one of these regular treasure hubs SUFFOLK HERITAGE ANTIQUES AND RECLAIM CENTRE Old London Road, Copdock, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3JF Brocante dates: 2 April, 4 June, 6 August, I October, 3 December Located between Ipswich and Colchester, this a haven for antiques. The fantastic retail outlet is made up of several independent antiques dealers and restorers all under one roof, offering an eclectic mix of period and vintage household items. The items on sale are antiques and architectural salvage, as well as period home décor. A brocante is held on the first Sunday of every other month, from 9am – 3pm. You’ll find stalls offering a fascinating mix of items. There are also two antiques fairs a short drive away in Dedham, so you can make the most of your day! www.suffolkheritage.co.uk THE STABLES ANTIQUE AND COLLECTABLES MARKET The Stable Yard, Hatfield House, Herts, AL9 5HX 15 April, 20 May, 17 June, 15 July, 19 August, 16 September | 10am-5pm Free entry The fair is held every month at the Stable Yard, within the stunning grounds of Hatfield House, and makes for a wonderful day out. There’s a huge range of antiques and collectables. Pick up unusual curiosities including furniture, mirrors, hats and ornaments. www.hatfield-house.co.uk/events HINGHAM ANTIQUES FAIR The Sports Hall, Springfield Way, Hingham, NR9 4BH
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Last Sunday of each month (August is third Sunday) 9.30am – 3.30pm Entry £1 This fair has a reputation spanning over 18 years. As one of Norfolk’s longest running and largest antique fairs, it draws crowds from far and wide. Featuring everything from furniture to fashion and clocks to books, it’s clear to see why the fair is a hit with antique dealers looking for new stock as well as buyers. www.hinghamantiquesfair.co.uk PETERBOROUGH FESTIVAL OF ANTIQUES The East of England Showground, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE2 6XE 14-15 April & 29-30 September | 10am-4.30pm Entry: £5-£7.50 As one of the largest antiques fairs in the country, and so much ground to cover, it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon browsing the many, many stalls. Vendors offer an interesting mix of china and pottery, jewellery, figurines, glassware, paintings, home and garden ware and much more. www.festivalofantiques.co.uk
SNAPE MALTING VINTAGE & MAKERS MARKET Sunday 9 April | 10am to 4pm The Vintage & Makers Market returns for its first outing of 2017. Organiser Deben Events has hand-picked a choice selection of the region’s leading vintage traders, local artisans, makers and craftspeople to kick off their year’s calendar. The market will feature everything from one-off vintage furniture, fashion, and homewares, to locally made products, artworks, fabrics and jewellery. For more information visit www.debenevents.com BRENTWOOD ANTIQUES AND COLLECTORS FAIR The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9NN 16-17 April, 28-29 May & 27-28 August | Open from 10am Entry: £4.50, early entry £6 This fair is somewhat a vintage piece itself having been established for more than 20 years. It features both indoor and outdoor stalls with dealers from all over the UK selling a huge variety of affordable items. THE CURIOSITY VINTAGE AND CRAFT FAIR Friends Meeting House, High Street, Saffron Walden & Scotsdale Garden Centre, 120 Cambridge Road, Great Shelford, CB22 5JT Every other month from February Taking up residency at two locations on the Essex/ Cambs border, the fair serves up vintage fashion and jewellery, antiques, crafts and tea and cake all under one roof! It’s a nice way to pass an afternoon. For upcoming dates visit www.thecuriosityfair.co.uk ELY CRAFT AND COLLECTABLES MARKET Every Saturday throughout the year This weekly market has a great range of arts, crafts, vintage, retro and much more. Enjoy a leisurely browse and be amazed by the variety and choice of goods on offer. Foodies will not be disappointed, the Street Food Aisle has an incredible selection of flavours and delicacies from around the world. www.elymarkets.co.uk/craft-market
BIGGLESWADE ANTIQUE & VINTAGE FAIR Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH 16 April, 21 May, 18 June, 17 September, 15 October, 19 November and 17 December | 9.30am-4pm Entry £1.50 A great opportunity to escape the high street and pick up unusual and one-off items. There’s over 45 stalls selling a wide range of antiques such as silver, jewellery, books, china, small furniture and vintage items. www.madisonevents.co.uk BECCLES ANTIQUES STREET MARKET Beccles Town Centre, NR34 9HA 30 April | 8am-4pm This annual event grows in popularity every year. Stalls line the town centre with dealers selling a wide range of quality antiques and collectables such as furniture, silver, china, linen, jewellery, books, clocks, retro and vintage design and decorative items. The atmosphere is buzzing with local businesses, restaurants and cafes open and ‘street food’ incorporated into the market. www.facebook.com/antiquesmarketbeccles
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Luxury hire at the hea cruisers and wate rt of the rside holid beautifu ay hom l Broads es Nationa l Park
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Luxury hire cruisers and waterside holiday homes on the beautiful Broads National Park
For more information and our 2017 holiday brochure please contact us on 01603 782207 or visit our website www.broads.co.uk NBD 148x107 ad_v1.indd 1
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ALL ABOARD THE BROADS Think of Norfolk, and for most the Broads immediately comes to mind. The National Park features over 125 miles of lock free waterways, meandering its way through stunning countryside, historic towns and villages. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day out, and with the weather warming up, there’s never been a better time to visit. Without a doubt the best way to see the Broads is by boat. Hiring your own boat for the day is an exhilarating experience, it’s a chance to get up close with the beauty of the Broads and feel like a captain for the day – no wonder it appeals to almost everyone. Families, groups of friends, couples – boat hire is big business on the Broads. A Google search will list hundreds of companies offering both day hire and boating holidays. Norfolk Broads Direct (www.broads.co.uk) have been specialising in boating holidays for over 100 years. It has a modern fleet of luxury cruisers available to pick up from the ‘capital of the Broads’ Wroxham. It also has riverside cottages available for hire for those that prefer to stay on dry land. Wroxham is a popular place to start your journey. It also makes a great day out even if you’re not planning to take to the water. Famed for Roys, said to be the world’s largest village store, it is home to plenty of places to eat, a terminus of Bure Valley Railway and the popular family attractions of BeWILDerwood and Wroxham Barns. If you’re hiring a boat from Wroxham get to grips with your vessel as you make your way to Horning, a popular pit-stop for boaters. Dotted along this stretch of water are The Innkeeper’s Lodge, The Swan and New Inn, great for a spot of lunch on the water’s edge. Just be prepared to wait for a mooring spot in the summer months!
From here, make your way to Ranworth, a beautiful little village which is home to St Helen’s Church, known as the Cathedral of the Broads, a nature reserve and a fantastic pub, The Maltsters. Ranworth is a popular place for overnight mooring so it’s recommended you arrive prior to sunset as space is limited. Potter Heigham is another popular place to begin your Broads journey. It is home to Herbert Woods (www.herbertwoods.co.uk), which has had a presence on the Broads for nine decades. Brand new to its fleet of modern cruisers is ‘Adventuring Light,’ a small compact cruiser, perfect for couples and firsttime boaters. The boat is easy to moor with an in-built bow thruster and a central steering position. Sleeping two, short breaks from Friday to Monday start from £428.
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Ross’
WILDLIFE BOAT TRIPS from Horsey Staithe
Depart from Horsey Staithe. 5 trips a day. 7 days a week. Small informal tours lasting an hour. View the unique wildlife in all weathers aboard Lady Ann, a classic wooden boat. Text 07791526440 before 10am to book, or simply turn up on the day and sign in at the automated booking office (pictured)
Find out more, including trip times and prices at:
Horning, Norwich, NR12 8YB 01692 631485 www.radarmuseum.co.uk facebook.com/radarmuseum @RAFRadarMuseum
wildlife-boat-trips.co.uk and on Trip Advisor.
HUNTER’S YARD
Sailing on the Norfolk Broads 2 hour skippered sails
Only £68 for up to 4 people
Cabin Yacht Hire RYA Sailing Tuition
Levels 1, 2, 3 & Seamanship courses
Half-Decker (day boat) Hire Learn to Sail Holidays
Tel: 01692 678263 www.huntersyard.co.uk Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG
The Norfolk Heritage Fleet Trust – Charity No: 1052303
If you fancy taking to the Broads in old school style, you can now hire ‘Spark of Light’; Herbert Woods’ original wooden motor cruiser. The wooden boat, built in 1927, captures the old-time cruising fashion of idyllic motor boating in that era, with in-built mod-cons you would expect to find in its modern fleet of boats. It has been refurbished, ready to hire to couples, families and boating enthusiasts for week-long breaks from May 2017. Fancy sailing? Hunter’s Yard in Ludham (www.huntersyard.co.uk), offers the opportunity to get behind the sail with its fleet of 14 engineless cabin yachts and seven half deckers (day boats) available for hire. You can take a two-hour class with an experience skipper or holiday and learn to sail at the same time. Of course you don’t have to hire a boat to enjoy this part of Norfolk. There’s plenty of cottage and apartment hire available, which make a great base for other activities such as fishing and wildlife spotting. Keen anglers will love the wide range of fishing on offer. Among the rivers and shallow lakes, the waters are rich with Bream, Roach, Eels, Perch, Rudd, Tench, Carp and Pike. Get back to nature with a visit to one of the many nature reserves or take a walk along nearly 200 miles of footpaths to discover 11,000 species of wildlife and rare plants such as the nationally protected fen orchid and crested buckler fern. Dotted along the Broads are picturesque villages, market towns and some of the counties best-loved pubs! Are you tempted yet? If you’re visiting with your dog, check out dog-friendly guide to the Broads at www.eastlife.co.uk/article/visit-broads-dog
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more ways filler_Layout 1 23/03/2012 15:49 Page 1
More content, more events, more ways to make the most of where you live! Visit our brilliant new website today…
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Sounds of the SHUCK NORFOLK RESTAURANT WINS A £5000 MUSIC MAKEOVER!
Written by Nicole Ranaweera
The North Norfolk coastline is fast becoming more and more of a haven for foodies, and with Thornham based restaurant-in-a-yurt, Shuck’s, recently winning the PRS for Music’s Music Makeover prize we can only expect to see greater things from this local business in the near future. Situated along the stunning Norfolk coastline, this unique venue is fast becoming one of the must-visit restaurants in the county. Housed in a yurt, diners can expect a casual, family-friendly atmosphere complete with exquisite food. After winning this year’s music makeover award, Shuck’s is now the proud owner of a new sound system with plans to host local live music performances, including a Battle of the Bands and 3 Day Festival this summer. As part of the celebrations, we were treated to a truly delicious 4-course meal, showcasing the best local produce in the surrounding area and the innovative skills and passion for food from owner and award-winning chef, Philip Milner. Later on in the evening, thanks to the music makeover from PRS for Music, local neo-soul singer Mullally and electronic jazz trio Mammal Hands performed live inside the yurt. PRS for Music launched the annual Music Makeover competition six years ago to showcase and raise awareness of how important music is to local businesses and it is clear to see the added benefit this award has made to Shuck’s.
Shuck’s is part of the Drove Orchards community, just off the A149 coast road between Holme and Thornham. Within walking distance of the sea and set in over 350 acres of orchards, farmland and wild meadows, Drove Orchard houses a farm shop, fishmonger, Eric’s Fish and Chips and of course Shuck’s! With glamping also available on site from award-winning glamping company, Wild Living, this place has something for everyone and definitely should be top of your list to visit this summer! Food served Monday to Friday 10am-9pm, Sat 9.30am-9pm and Sun 9.30am-6pm Shucks, Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Thornham, PE36 6LS T: 01485 525889 www.shucksattheyurt.co.uk
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WE INTERVIEWED SHUCK’S OWNER, PHILIP MILNER, TO FIND OUT WHAT MAKES SHUCK’S SO SPECIAL... TELL US ABOUT SHUCKS… We’re a family run restaurant whose ethos is to welcome all to enjoy fantastic home-made rustic food with a twist. We chose the name after the Norfolk legend Black Shuck. What better than a Norfolk legend with a bit of a bite! We opened in April 2016 after I had been head chef at kitchens at local eateries for 20+ years, winning numerous awards there and within a few months we gained national recognition with the Good Food Guide at our own place. Shuck’s uses the produce from its own doorstep at Drove Orchards’ soft fruit and kitchen gardens, and welcomes all from families to four-legged friends. We want to be the haven for all – from foodie lovers, families, dog walkers and those enjoying the North Norfolk beautiful coastline. WHAT MAKES SHUCKS UNIQUE? For one we’re housed in a Yurt! Open all year round with a log-burning stove and al-fresco dining in the warmer months, situated directly opposite the beautiful orchards at Drove. We cater for all and offer bespoke catering if needed in our beautiful, venue. We want to host local events and support local causes that makes Shuck’s the place to go all year round. WHY IS MUSIC SO IMPORTANT TO SHUCKS? Without question, music has always been a big part of our lives (I was a former DJ) and we know that for the full customer experience at our restaurant, music is the key. Eating out is an experience of the senses and we know that what we hear is one of those. If your senses are fulfilled with some great music then you enjoy your culinary experience so much more. If it’s a special event or a party then music plays a vital role in that experience for your customer and relaxed background music plays a part in involving your customer in the everyday Shuck’s experience. Never overlook your music! HOW WILL THE PRS MUSIC MAKEOVER AWARD HELP YOUR BUSINESS? We had the most basic IPOD single speaker system
that was not audible to all with no surround sound, but now we can provide a fantastic background music experience that has already gained us great reviews from customers. Along with the everyday music offering, we have been able to get involved with providing much more than just this background music – music events for all. We are planning band events to support up and coming talent, including a local battle of the bands to support local acts vying for a for a place to play at the biggest free music festival in the UK (Festival Too). WHAT’S NEXT FROM SHUCKS THIS YEAR? Shuck’s is planning on expanding this year. Our chicken shack and rustic pizza takeaway is planning on opening this late spring, Along with family-friendly music festivals and being able to offer the whole package with music events showcasing local talents along with tables eating great food. We are also hoping to get an al-fresco rooftop dining experience where guests can appreciate live bands and a DJ experience. We will not be standing still! AND FINALLY, WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING IN THE EAST? What’s not to love…The coastline, the scenery and experience for customers, along with the abundance of produce we have on our coastline. Drove grow apples, soft fruits and a whole variety of kitchen garden produce, the fishermen bring seafood and fish to our kitchen door and customers can have a scenic treat before or after their visit. This is an area of culinary experience as well as a get-away-fromit-all treat.
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SUN, SEA AND SUFFOLK! WE LIST THE BEST THINGS TO DO ON THE SUFFOLK COAST
With the weather warming up our thoughts are turning to seaside escapades. One of the best things about our region’s fine stretch of coastline is that it doesn’t have to be scorching hot to be enjoyed. We live in England after all, so day dreams of long lazy days baking in the sunshine with the sea lapping at our toes, have to be somewhat managed. Thankfully, the Suffolk Coast, which spans 50 miles and is named as an area of natural outstanding beauty, has plenty to offer even if the sunshine doesn’t quite break through the clouds. If you’re planning a visit, read our top picks of things to see and do: SOUTHWOLD The sandy shores of Southwold are great for a family day out. Famed for its beach-hut lined promenade, pier, thriving town and the Adnams Brewery, there’s plenty to do throughout the day. Once the kids tire of sandcastle building, head to the pier for traditional amusement games or stop for a bite to eat with sea views. Southwold’s landmark lighthouse is available for tours and from May to September the Southwold Summer Theatre runs a series of shows.
ALDEBURGH For a more sophisticated approach to seaside fun, visit Aldeburgh. The town is famous for its connection with Benjamin Britten, the founder of the Aldeburgh Festival. This year the festival celebrates its 50th anniversary from 9-25 June. Music and history are iconic of Aldeburgh with plenty of opportunities to learn about the town’s past.
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Stroll through the high street and shop independent boutiques housed in beautiful historic buildings, learn more about the life of Benjamin Britten at The Red House, visit the Martello Tower or watch a film at the Aldeburgh cinema, which has been screening movies since 1919! Much of the auditorium retains original features, including a number of beautiful art deco lights. A visit to Aldeburgh wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Scallop. Wander north along the pebbly beach and you’ll discover the steel shaped shell designed by celebrated Suffolk-born Maggi Hambling. When hunger calls stop by the renowned Aldeburgh fish and chip shop, or tuck into local produce which has been given a French twist at the Brasserie Bleue restaurant at the White Lion Hotel. For an overnight stay and some of the best fish dishes around, check-in to the Brudenell Hotel.
DUNWICH Known for its eerie past and windswept dunes, Dunwich is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. Lose yourself in its mystical wilderness and walk for miles along the beach taking in the landscape or learn about the history of a city that was lost to the sea at the Museum. It’s a great location for walking the dog, finished with lunch at the dog-friendly Ship at Dunwich.
ALL ABOARD What better way to see the region than from the water? Dotted along the coast you’ll find a number of boat trips and tours. Waveney River Tours along the River Alde; taking in Snape Maltings and the Oulton Broad. A trip to Beccles also provides the opportunity to cool off at the Lido or if you’d rather take things into your hands, hire a canoe, kayak or day boat and enjoy an adventure on the calm waters. From April to October, Orwell Lady cruises up and down the River Orwell. It’s a fantastic chance to take in the stunning sights while indulging in a spot of afternoon tea. Feel as though you’ve been transported to a time gone by with a visit to the Southwold Boating Lake or The Meare at Thorpeness. Here you’ll find colourful paddleboats on the lake and little tea rooms.
WILDERNESS AND WALKING With its marshes, sand dunes and coastal paths, the Suffolk coast features hundreds of footpaths. Some are ideal for dog walks, other’s are best for bird watching and cycling. Your hardest decision will be choosing which route to take. However, help is at hand with the Suffolk Walking Festival, which takes place from 13 May to 4 June. This year the event celebrates its 10th anniversary. It features walks ranging from 5-10 miles, family walks and more challenging routes. Full details of the programme can be found at www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk
WHERE TO STAY The Suffolk Coast goes above and beyond when it comes to accommodation. If you prefer to take a weekend break at your own pace and enjoy self-catering accommodation, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Among our favourites are the cosy cottages available
The Found | Unique Home Stays
for hire at Suffolk Secrets (www.suffolk-secrets.co.uk) to much more extravagant sleek and mimimalist homes for rental such as Reydon Grove Farm in Southwold. The swanky, Scandinavian chic three-bedroom home, is just a mile from the beach and is situated on a working farm surrounded by marshes. Prices range from £920 - £1,505 p/w and can be booked at So Southwold (www.sosouthwold.co.uk). For an escape like no other, where you’ll feel as though you’re the only person in the world, book a break at The Found; a luxury self-catering Martello tower set on the shores, a short distance from Woodbridge. This indulgent accommodation is a hidden gem. Featuring three double bedrooms, a circular snug area, spiral staircase, floor to ceiling windows providing 360 degree views and roof terrace complete with fire pit and Moroccan style seating so you can kick back and watch the stars twinkle. You can even book an in-house chef. To live like royalty in a tower prices start from £1,800 for three nights and can be booked at Unique Home Stays (www.uniquehomestays.com).
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DOG FRIENDLY
Tails About Town Written by Emma Kemsley
DOGGY VACATION On a recent holiday to India I was told by locals on several occasions that I have a big heart – I must admit it’s not something I’ve been told before so I can only put it down to the fact that they must have picked up on the fact my heart was aching for my puppy all the way back home on his own doggy vacation in Saffron Walden. We’d been through the guilt trip phase before we left, scolded by big brown eyes as we packed the suitcase. My husband and I don’t have kids and to us, Fletcher is our whole world. We love him more than anything, and I firmly believe that even if we were to have kids one day that I couldn’t love them anymore than I love our dog (cue screams of horror from parents of human-beings!). So trusting someone to look after him is a big deal. Thankfully, I’ve been blessed to find Emma Thompson at Saffron Superdogs. She trained Fletcher as a puppy, we’re friends and Fletcher adores her three dogs Murphy, Bruno and Tally. In fact, Bruno, a Bracco Italiano, is Fletcher’s idol. He is his best bud, even if Bruno doesn’t always agree. Where ever Bruno goes, Fletcher follows. Chasing deer, yep, Bruno taught him that. Sniffing out hares, yep, he taught him that too. I knew he was in safe hands, but while I lay on the beach, my mind would drift to what he was doing. Turns out he was having the time of his life. Saffron Superdogs main business is dog walking, one of Fletcher’s many favourite things to do. He’ll walk (aka run) for hours. He became Emma’s sidekick for two weeks, playing with groups of dogs on long muddy walks for hours every day, dropping them off, before picking up the next lot to play some more. He even went on holiday to Wales with her brood of hounds. He adores Emma, her dogs and her lifestyle, which is probably why I’m now being given the cold shoulder. We were so excited to pick him up, however, Fletcher wasn’t so thrilled to say goodbye. My husband has been forgiven far quicker but I’m still getting dirty looks with a huff and puff as I type. I’m now off to bribe him with a long walk in the nearby field!
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WALKS TO GET THE TAILS WAGGING! Written by Amanda French
There’s nothing better on a Sunday than heading off into the countryside for a long walk with the dog, but one thing can make it better…plenty of pub stops scheduled in! Below we’ve rounded up our favourite walks to enjoy with your furry friend, with a few stops just for the humans thrown in too. NORFOLK If you happen to live near, or visit the North Norfolk coast with your furry friends, you’ll be pleased to know that dogs are welcome on most of the beaches, meaning you can enjoy long stretches of empty beaches (out of season). However, there are some restrictions at different times of the year, so do check ahead of time to be sure. Begin your walk at Holkham beach and head onto Wells-next-to-the-sea for an easy nine mile walk, which will prove great fun for humans and dogs alike. Enjoy magnificent views of the vast sands on a flat walk which anyone can undertake…try walking half the way and catching the bus back if nine miles in one go feels like too much. However, your walk can be broken up with a quick bite to eat at The Albatros in Wells, an old Dutch Cargo ship, which now serves up food and drink, as well as plenty of entertainment. A great place to stop as dogs are welcome to join them on board.
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SUFFOLK Head to The King’s Head in Woodbridge for great food at its riverside location. The pub even has a ‘Mutt’s Menu’ designed for your best friend. All items are only £1 and include Cows Ears, Pigs Ears, Honey Dried Pig Snout and Doggy sausage. Don’t worry, there are plenty of great dishes for humans too. Once you’ve finished lunch, why not walk some of it off with a riverside walk, taking in views of the Woodbridge Tide Mill, standing on the refurbished Quay. Visit www.theaa.com/walks/down-by-the-river-atwoodbridge-421019 to see details of an easy four mile walk along town streets, riverside paths and the river wall.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE Start near Newmarket race course and head off into the Devil’s Dyke for a lovely nine mile walk along the dyke’s water extension, Reach Lode. Head into Burwell Fen and then through to Ely and past the cathedral. Once you’ve reached Reach, head to the Dyke’s End pub with your dog and you’ll all be welcomed for food and drink at the end of your journey.
HERTFORDSHIRE Head over to Ayot St Lawrence, between Harpenden and Welwyn to enjoy a wealth of walks with your dogs. The village is set in the middle of the countryside, so there are plenty of areas to let the dog off the lead to run free. Closer to the village you’ll pass the
National Trust property Shaw’s Corner, the one-time home to George Bernard Shaw. Head to the Brocket Arms afterwards for a dog friendly drink or a bite to eat.
ESSEX If you’ve never been to Margaretting Tye, then now’s the time to get your wellies on, dogs ready and head off. Start off at The White Hart (after a dog-friendly lunch or drink) and then head around the local countryside for a beautiful four mile walk in the heart of the Essex countryside. See here for more details: www.essexwalker.org/essex-walks/Margaretting-Tye-essex-walk-4-miles.pdf
BEDFORDSHIRE If you are lucky enough to live in the beautiful countryside of Bedfordshire, then you’ll know there’s a huge variety of places to take your best friend for a run around. Set within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Dunstable Downs is a great place for a walk on a sunny day. Park at the Dunstable Downs visitor centre and then head off for a 6.5 mile walk around the area. Enjoy a cemetery from the late Neolithic period, beautiful flora and fauna and pass through the village of Totternhoe and stop off for a pub lunch or a drink or two at The Old Farm Inn at Totternhoe where dogs are welcome in the garden area.
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Open Gardens 2017 EACH gift in every Will makes a difference
Contact Maddy Dodsworth on 01223 204913
Registered Charity No. 1069284
Sandon Great Notley Danbury & Little Baddow Mill End, Bradwell-on-Sea Springfield Old Moulsham Little Waltham Terling, Fairstead & hamlets Great Baddow Witham Galleywood
Sunday 28th May Sunday 4th June Sunday 11th June Sunday 11th June Sunday 18th June Sunday 18th June Sunday 25th June Sunday 25th June Sunday 25th June Sunday 2nd July Sunday 2nd July
Enjoy an unforgettable day of colour and fragrance in beautiful Essex gardens, opening to the public through the summer in support of Farleigh Hospice. For more information or to book your ticket, please call 01245 457352 or visit
www.farleighhospice.org/open-gardens
It is because you care that we can www.farleighhospice.org Registered charity no 284670
LITTLE EAST
MUM’s
THE WORD CHOCOLATE CHAOS Easter always poses me with a huge predicament. As a self confessed chocoholic I know what joy those beautiful foil wrapped eggs can bring and so I like to be generous. However, as a chocoholic with not even a scrap of self control I struggle to have chocolate in the house without then eating it. Out of sight, out of mind doesn’t work for me; the eggs call to me, whispering for me to free them from their cardboard prisons, urging me to allow them to fulfil their destiny way before the hot cross buns are being bought. You’d think a woman who prides herself on her logical reasoning would find a way to not eat them too, that I would just tell myself that a 200g bar of chocolate was more satisfying AND better value for money than an 85g hollow egg. Logic is no good though, not once the eggs are
in my house because my illogical mind, which realistically makes most of my decisions (be that my absolute belief in fairytales or my refusal to accept that I’m too old to dress the way I do) tells me that egg shaped chocolate is tastier chocolate, it’s special Easter chocolate, it’s forbidden chocolate. Once I accept that point I know that the fight has been lost. Womankind lost the ability to resist the forbidden fruit, or indeed chocolate, long before I had come into the world and I’m not going to argue with fate; that would be churlish. And so year after year the fight is lost. I eat an obscene amount of money’s worth of delicious egg shaped chocolate that I spent ages picking out to give maximum joy to it’s recipient, when the reality is it brings fleeting joy to me followed by the inevitable shame and panic I feel when I need to replace it and all of the good eggs are gone. Not this year. No bad eggs shall be in our house; neither in human form nor in the form of a disappointing dented panic buy. This year I’ll find a way. I wonder how much a storage unit is? Just for a few weeks...
Read more from Nicola at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus
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TOP 10 EASTER EGG HUNTS There is nothing better than a good Easter egg hunt for some feel good family fun. Cracking clues with the promise of a chocolate reward is a perfect Easter day out no matter how old you are! So, we’ve put together our pick of some of the best hunts around the region this April… CAMBRIDGESHIRE 1. Cambridge Past, Present & Future’s Easter Fun Day, 15 April Enjoy some indoor craft activities using natural
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materials, and then set off to explore Wandlebury Country Park and find clues to end up with a chocolate prize! Aimed at age 5+ www.cambridgeppf.org 2. Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt, 1-17 April Make special family memories this Easter at the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt as you explore the beautiful gardens and discover where the Lindt Gold Bunny is hiding. Complete the trail and receive a delicious Lindt chocolate treat. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk
NORFOLK 3. Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden’s Easter Trail, 14 April Hunt for the colourful eggs around Norfolk’s stunning woodland and water garden to win yourself a chocolatey eggy prize! Face painting and Easter crafts for children will also be available. www.fairhavengarden.co.uk 4. Sandringham Estate’s Easter Egg Trail, 15 April Visit the Queen’s estate for a right royal hunt! The Priory Rotary Club of King’s Lynn invite adults and children to enter their Easter Egg Trail in aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance Trust. www.sandringhamestate.co.uk SUFFOLK 5. Museum of East Anglian Life’s Easter Fun Day 16 April Celebrate spring at the Museum of East Anglian Life this Easter with their very popular Easter Fun Day. Enjoy the Easter Egg Hunt around the Museum, have a go at a seedling workshops and don’t forget to pay a visit to the museum’s animals! www.eastanglianlife.org.uk 6. Kentwell Hall’s Eastertide, 14-17 April Explore the beautiful gardens of Kentwell Hall to find all the wooden eggs and crack the code to win a prize in this popular Easter Egg Hunt. Plus there are plenty of other activities - don’t forget to try The Impossible Easter Quiz! www.kentwell.co.uk ESSEX 7. Marsh Farm’s GIANT Easter Egg Hunt, 1-16 April Join in the spring madness at this Alice in Wonderland themed Easter Eggstravaganza! Help the Mad Hatter collect his eggs in over 4 acres of Easter themed garden to win some chocolate! www.marshfarm.co.uk
8. Blake House Craft Centre’s Easter Egg Hunt, 15-17 April Lots of family fun with an Egg Hunt, Bouncy Castle & lots of activities for the kids every day. Timbers Restaurant and all exclusive shops will be open for those last minute Easter gifts, so it’s a perfect day out for all ages! www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk REGIONAL 9. National Trust’s Cadbury Easter Hunt, 14-16 April Set off on an adventure around the grounds of a National Trust Property near you! Hunt for the clues that the bunny has left behind after hiding his stash of Cadbury chocolate prizes. Perfect for all ages. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 10. English Heritage’s Easter Adventure Quest, 14-17 April You’ll be greeted by a character from the past perhaps a king, a butler or a Roman centurion - who’ll be able to help you crack the clues as you explore one of the region’s English Heritage properties! There’s a chocolate reward for successful adventurers, so be sure to join in the fun. www.english-heritage.org.uk
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Hinchingbrooke is a remarkable state school, set in acres of beautiful grounds and adjoining a country park. Hinchingbrooke House was formerly the family home of the Cromwells and of the Earls of inspiration from its heritage and gives both staff and students a very special pride and a sense of identity. Our mission is to inspire We aim for all students to be nurtured as uniquely talented
through their learning and the development of their intellectual, creative, physical and emotional capabilities. We are thrilled for all of our students whose 2016 A-Level results have reflected their hard work and have enabled them to progress to their choice of university or the planned next steps in their career. These outstanding results, which have improved at all measures A*-B (46%), A* -C (76%) and A*-E (99%), are the school’s highest for five years.
Brampton Road, Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE29 3BN T: 01480 375700 | F: 01480 420536 E: communications@hinchbk.cambs.sch.uk www.hinchingbrookeschool.net
Bold Imaginative Reflective Three words to define your daughter’s future. Add three more:
Open Morning Thursday 4th May, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust
OF ACADEMIC TUITION
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WHAT ELSE CAN A GOOD TUTOR DO? As well as the academic essentials, the best tutors will pass on essential life skills: including motivation, time management, organization and self-confidence. They will help your children to see beyond their immediate frustrations, giving them the tools they need to succeed in exams and beyond. With school and university entry becoming increasingly competitive, a holistic approach that tackles all aspects of the child’s education is essential. Parents
can get the best results from their child’s tutor by working closely with them.
ONLINE TUITION We are currently seeing a boom in online tutoring. School children who have grown up surrounded by technology are perfectly comfortable in front of a computer screen – if not even happier than when they are sitting face-to-face with a tutor in a room. The key advantage of online tuition is that it allows the perfect match of tutor to student because there are no geographical limits. Families can be much more discriminating and rather than choose someone because they happen to be nearby, can find the very best tutor for their needs, wherever they, or the tutor, are in the world.
Simply Learning Tuition (www.simplylearningtuition. co.uk), a leading independent education company providing introductions to private tutors who deliver effective one-to-one academic tuition and provide specialist advice throughout a child’s academic journey, from school selection through to university.
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An outstanding Independent Prep School for boys and girls aged 3-13 years
Happiness, Confidence, Success
Contact: 01442 256143
www.westbrookhay.co.uk
OPEN MORNING Friday, 12th May 2017
London Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RF
Your daughter is unique, let’s achieve her potential.
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Excellent independent boarding and day
Tel: 01462 670 511
school located in Letchworth Garden City
admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk
for girls aged 3 - 18 years.
www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk
10.00am – 12.00pm
FOOD & DRINK
FOOD & DRINKNews PARIS HOUSE WOBURN GETS A MAKEOVER Phil Fanning owner of Paris House, has announced the fine dining restaurant will undergo refurbishment. Set in 22 acres of deer park on the Woburn Estate, the restaurant will close after Mother’s Day and will reopen for service on Thursday 13 April in time for Easter with the launch of the new six, eight and ten course spring menus, priced from £43 per person.
Pork Stock
The refurbishments comes following requests from customers. It will include structural and layout changes and a new design scheme. www.parishouse.co.uk
PORKSTOCK FINDS A NEW PIGSTY TO CALL HOME Porkstock, one of Norfolk’s favourite family food events, has announced it is moving to a new venue for 2017. The award-winning festival, which celebrates everything that is fantastic about local food and drink, is taking over a corner of the Royal Norfolk Showground on Saturday 14 October 2017. Now in its fourth year, the free day time family festival, from 10am to 5pm offers food, music, cookery demonstrations and fun for all ages. When the sun goes down Porkstock Party comes alive. This is an adult-only, ticketed event where music takes over from food as the main attraction. With two party zones, the 2017 Porkstock Party is set to be bigger and better than ever before. There’ll be an array of live bands on the main stage and now synonymous with Porkstock, the Gin Palace will be returning with an electro-swing extravaganza provided by the outstanding Tallulah and the Goodtimes Republic. Tickets for the evening knees up are on sale until 30 June at an early bird price of £20. www.porkstock.co.uk
Garden Kitchen reopens
NEW HEAD CHEF AT MERCURE HATFIELD OAK HOTEL Miklos Takacs will be revitalising the menu at the Mercure Hatfield Oak Hotel in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, which is currently undergoing a £1million refurbishment.
FOOD DIARY: 6 April Cocktail Fun Event Brudenell Hotel, Aldeburgh
GARDEN KITCHEN CAFÉ RE-OPENS Garden Kitchen Café situated in a 17th century dairy barn in the grounds of Hoveton Hall re-opens for Spring/Summer 2017 from Good Friday.
30 April Afternoon tea Knebworth Barns
6 April Cambridge Grub Club The Three Horseshoes, Madingley
30 April Farmers’ Market Sandringham Visitor Centre Restaurant
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THE
CAMBRIDGEFOODIE Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour (www.cambridgefoodtour.com), shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…
BOOM TIME! NEW OPENINGS IN CAMBRIDGE Cotto Crab
I don’t know where to start! The food scene in Cambridge has been on a roll the last two years, but 2017 is probably going into the books as the biggest shift ever. When I started the food tours 4 and a half years ago, the food scene was good. Then two years later it become exciting and it is now moving towards a climax! The big question is will it stop here or is this the start of one of the most exciting food scenes outside London? Great for my bespoke food tours! The biggest change has been in CB1. For many years local residents complained that there was hardly anything on offer. In January it kicked off when the Artisan Italian Bakery Zio Marioe opened their doors, Le Gros Franck is having a facelift and will be adding a wide range of craft beers and Franck’s famous Smoked Meat to their offering. Around the corner, SmokeWorks will open their second haunt and a bit further down on Hills Road we now have the French bakery Maison Clement producing delicious patisserie and bread. The Station tavern is the first new pub in the new CB1 development. One of the most exciting openings in CB1 must be the Tamburlaine Hotel with Alan Dann heading up the kitchen. On the other side of CB1 in Burleigh street and the Grand Arcade, there will be many changes. The first one to kick this off is the Italian Deli Signorelli. Watch this space as the Grand Arcade is having a huge make over!
Parkers Piece in CB2 seems to attract posh businesses at the moment. We are all looking forward to the reopening of the University Arms, which is going to be the best of Cambridge. Tucked away on the other side you can now find Cotto. It has moved from East Road to the Gonville Hotel for more space and the food and restaurant are fabulous! Wheeler Street or also known as ‘meat street’ has welcomed Steak & Honour in January and Honest Burgers will open soon opposite Stick’n Sushi. If you hadn’t noticed yet, the food van in front of the Town Hall is now selling burgers instead of bagels! On to Trinity Street, almost opposite Trinity College, Trinity will open soon, the sister restaurant of the Varsity. Stir Cambridge in CB4 thought it was time to spread their wings and to open a bakery next door. While Radmore Farmshop have opened a bigger shop in Victoria Avenue. The City Pub Company is on a roll; they have taken over the Waterman in Chesterton Road and will reopen in May. In CB1 they gave the Backstreet Bistro a make over. Now named The Petersfield Pub and already the talk of the town! If you like street food, then Caverley’s down the road from them is your call. This funky brewery is one of our guest’s favourites.
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FOODIE DELIGHTS UPCOMING FOOD FESTIVALS ACROSS THE REGION
Written by Amanda French
stration theatre and of course, the famous battle of the bangers.
There’s plenty of great festivals to get your teeth
BEDFORDSHIRE
into over the next few months, showcasing the very
Head to the Birds of Prey Centre at Herrings Green
best producers from across the region. Pop along
Activity Centre to enjoy the first ever Bedfordshire
and support local small food businesses from honey
Food & Garden Festival on 22-23 April. As well as
producers to artisan chocolates and enjoy a nibble
enjoying stalls from the area’s finest producers
or two as you go!
of food and plenty of garden wares to purchase,
NORFOLK Sunday 18 June will see the return of Norwich’s annual Food and Drink Festival. Held outside the Forum there’ll be plenty of action on the Cookery Demon-
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tickets include access to the Birds of Prey Centre.
and real ales all weekend. Tickets are only £3.50 for
Gates open from 10am and tickets cost just £6 for
adults and free for children.
adults and £2.50 for children. HERTFORDSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE
The 2, 3 and 4 June will see the Hatfield Food Fes-
Rounding up the Ely Eel Festival is a two-day food
tival return on a larger site. Rosemary Shrager and
and drink festival held across Sunday 30 April and
The Baker Brothers are just a couple of the celebrity
Monday 1 May. 75 artisan food and drink producers
foodies expected during the event.
will be showcasing their products, alongside a street food festival and live music. There’ll also be a cook-
With a variety of free hands on master classes and
ery theatre with Masterchef winner Jane Devonshire
chef tastings as well as a BBQ academy, there’s
demonstrating a variety of dishes. There are also
something to keep everyone occupied. Children
Q&A and meet and greet sessions with celebrity
can enjoy mixing things up in the food laboratory
chefs during the event. To find out more visit
or head to the children’s cookery school to get their
www.visitely.org.uk
hands dirty. Don’t miss the local producer stalls, the street food avenue or the live music at this food
ESSEX
festival.
Colchester will be taken over by local food producers and artisan drinks creators on Saturday 24 June
SUFFOLK
and Sunday 25 June. 120 stalls stocking delicious
Join award-winning regional chefs and the area’s
food and drink will descend on Colchester’s Lower
finest food producers as the Taste of Sudbury Food
Castle Park for the weekend alongside other activ-
and Drink Festival returns on Sunday 11 June. Enjoy
ities, performances and displays such as live music,
demonstrations at the kitchen theatre and work your
cookery demonstrations from celebrity chefs, as well
way around 40 different food producers filling
as The Pike Staff Inn Real Ale Bar serving craft beers
Market Hill and St Peters. Entry is free of charge.
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TOP Chocolate Courses
5
Written by Amanda French
Enjoy feeling like Willy Wonka for a day with one of these chocolate workshops: ARTISTRY IN COCOA 25 Granby St, Newmarket CB8 8HE Head to Artistry in Cocoa in Newmarket in Suffolk to enjoy a fully customisable Masterclass in chocolate including an introduction to how chocolate is made, how to make chocolate from roasted beans, a chocolate tasting (of course), making and flavouring a ganache, learn how to use a mould and pipe chocolates. Have a go at hand rolling and dipping truffles, learn how to temper chocolate, learn cake making skills and chocolate skills for cakes and finally learn how to paint with chocolate and sculpt with the lovely sweet stuff. Find out more at www.artistryincocoa.co.uk CHAPPEL CHOCOLATE York House, Bacons Lane, Chappel, CO6 2EB Based in Colchester, it runs a series of chocolate making courses for children and big kids alike (from £150 for six children) which include two hours of chocolatey fun including making chocolate lollipops and shapes as well as a chance to decorate using chocolate. chappelchocolatehouse.co.uk MAMA BOMBON AT THE CAMBRIDGE COOKERY SCHOOL School House Homerton Gardens, Purbeck Road, Cambridge CB2 8EB Enjoy learning how to master chocolate with Gloria Dominguez Martinez, aka Mama Bombon. With a variety of courses including Easter Chocolate Making or an introduction class, there’s a chocolate class for everyone. Gloria, the master chocolatier has worked on chocolate plantations and learnt her trade while living in South America with her young son. She’s a real-life Vivienne from Chocolat and her passion is
truly infectious. You’ll come away loving chocolate even more (if that’s possible!) cambridgecookeryschool.com CHOCOLATE DELI Guild St, Walsingham NR22 6BU Pop into the Chocolate Deli in Wells-next-to-the-sea to enjoy one of their chocolate workshops. Suitable for anyone looking to learn the secrets behind chocolate making, you’ll have the chance to make your own lollies, roll and dip handmade truffles or create your own Willy Wonka style chocolate bar in a couple of hours. www.thechocolatedeli.co.uk THE CHOCCIE DROP The Choccie Drop based in Abbotts Langley has a variety of courses, either in your home or in their base, taking kids and adults alike through a variety of chocolate making skills. Learn how to make various chocolate based treats, sample a wide array of chocolates and learn more about where our favourite sweet treat comes from in the ‘bean to bar’ story.
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28/11/2016 10:01
Calling all early birdies and PROFESSIONAL PITCHERS… Written by Liz Mattock
Whether you are teeing off for the first time, want to improve your swing or are serious about coming in under par at the end of 9 or 18 holes, we’ve have found golf courses to match all abilities. BEGINNERS UFFORD PARK GOLF COURSE Yarmouth Road, Melton, Suffolk Set in 120 acres of parkland, home to ‘Doctorgolf’ teaching academy, it doesn’t matter if you are still figuring out your birdie from your albatross or you just want to upskill your technique. This course is for everyone. Offering Pay and Play as well as 5 and 7 day memberships, flexibility is the key attraction here, complimented by an onsite hotel and spa. If that isn’t enough, Ufford Park caters for little and big kids alike. Visit Congo Rapids Adventure Golf, spectacularly themed and full of obstacles including a jeep, rafts, waterfalls and dinosaurs. Perfect for a family day out. www.uffordpark.co.uk PIRATES COVE ADVENTURE GOLF Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth If it’s more of a relaxed family day you are after look no further than Pirates Cove. Described as a ‘swashbuckling 18 hole adventure golf course’ it offers an unequalled miniature golf experience. Play through caves, over footbridges, and under cascading waterfalls, just don’t let those pesky pirates steal your golf ball on the way round. Aimed at getting kids interested in playing the sport and open to adults too, could this be the adventure that leads your little ones from open waters to open fairways? Prices are £7.50 for entry or £26 for a family of two adults and two children. www.pirates-cove.co.uk SCHOOL OF GOLF & LITTLE CHANNELS Channels Golf Club, Chelmsford Located in Little Waltham, on what used to be a 19th century farm, now sits a challenging 9-hole
Little Channels
golf course, driving range and practice facilities. It features a pay and play course and floodlit 22 bay driving range. Works to further improve the amenities including the indoor driving range are now taking place while the strong team of teaching professionals will benefit from the appointment of PGA professional golfer Jason Levermore. A team of professionals run the highly regarded School of Golf as well as Little Channels for juniors under the age of 12, where interactive and fun classes allow beginners to take their first steps onto the golf course. Furthermore, there are junior golf camps all year round. The next three Day Camp priced £85 takes place 5-7 April, while May will offer a one-day camp on 31 May priced £50. www.golf-club-essex.co.uk
INTERMEDIATES HEACHAM MANOR GOLF HOTEL Hunstanton Rd, Heacham, Norfolk Set by the coast you need to have some knowledge of wind speed and technical ability with this one as
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it’s open to the coastal elements. Heacham Manor’s 18 hole golf course is a worthy and enjoyable challenge with mature fairways set in panoramic coastal views. Complimented by a driving range to test your skill,s as well as a separate 9 hole course and the warm and inviting Heacham Manor serving hot food at lunch and dinner, you’ll want to work up an appetite. www.heacham-manor.co.uk THETFORD GOLF CLUB Brandon Rd, Thetford, Norfolk Thetford Golf Club is aimed at golfers who are seriously looking to improve. Awarded ‘Top 100 courses for £100’ by Golf Monthly, there is currently no joining fee and no waiting list. The onsite Stuart Smith Gold Academy aims to take intermediate golfers and help them reach their golfing potential. Thetford offers an 18 hole golf course set in the stunning Breckland Forest, over 6, 849 yards. Visitors are welcome throughout the week, weekends and bank holidays. www.thetfordgolfclub.co.uk
PROS BOURN GOLF & LEISURE Toft Road, Cambridge One of the most challenging courses in East Anglia will take you through an expertly designed 18-hole, par 72 course, set in 6,529 yards of green. Obstacles include a brook which runs the length of the course and three lakes, so precision is a must in this peaceful but competitive setting. Non-member rates start at £37 for the day to play 18 holes, or £14 to play nine. You are also able to hire equipment and there is a well-stocked kit shop if you find you have left something important behind. www.bourngoldandleisure.co.uk ST IVES GOLF CLUB Needingworth Road, St Ives, Cambridge Not for the faint hearted, St Ives offers even the most accomplished golfer a challenge set in 230 acres of green and rough. Join fellow golfers on the ‘Championship’ course with open fairways, strategically placed bunkers and cleverly designed layout to inspire and encourage the best of golfing talent. The modern state-of-the-art clubhouse is the perfect setting for refreshments and the onsite driving range will allow you to perfect your pitch before heading out onto the green. Prices vary at the weekend and in and out of season so it’s best to check the website. www.stivesgolfclub.co.uk Happy golfing!
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Welcome to High Lodge, Darsham
9 Hole Golf Course SPECIAL OFFER
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2017 03 East Life Golf HP.qxp_107mm h x 148 mm w 06/03/2017 16:28 Page 1
The grass is greener Ufford Park Woodbridge
It doesn’t matter if you play off scratch, or have just decided to take up golf, you will receive a warm welcome at Ufford Park Woodbridge. Open to all, members and non-members can practice their swing on our 2 tier floodlit driving range before setting out on our award-winning 18 hole, par 71 course. Due to excellent drainage it is playable no matter what the weather. Add a twist to your day and try the new Adventure Golf Course at Ufford Park. The perfect course for all ages to enjoy together. t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road |Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
ON YOUR BIKE! Written by Liz Mattock
If you want to swap four wheels for two and get on your bike this year, we’ve found the best cycle routes and events to make you want to pedal that bit faster.
tandem on this pleasant 12-mile one-way cycle route along country lanes and B roads to Duxford’s Imperial War Museum. Just save some energy to ride back. Find out more at www.cycleroutesuk.com
WELLS & HOLKHAM CIRCUIT, NORTH NORFOLK North Norfolk is an ideal place to bike by the sea. With coastal roads spanning the entire coast, starting at Wells Quay and finishing in Holkham, it provides a gentle but picturesque nine-mile adventure. More information can be found at www.norfolk.gov.uk
COLCHESTER TO CLACTON ON SEA A gentle 18-mile flat route starting in the historic town of Colchester and finishing in the old coastal town of Clacton-on-Sea. Perfectly timed to finish with a fish and chip supper. Find out more by visiting www.cycleroutesuk.com
FOREST TRAILS IN SUFFOLK Both Rendlesham Forest and Thetford Forest offer fun and excitement for those looking to take their routes off-road. Set in 1,800 acres of protected park and woodland, and a choice of between three-mile and 11 mile rides, where will the route take you? Information can be found at www.discoversuffolk.org.uk THE JOCKEY TRAIL, CAMBRIDGESHIRE For horseracing enthusiasts and cyclists combined, this day long ride starts and finishes at the famous Newmarket Racecourse. The route takes you through the quaint villages of Cambridgeshire and Suffolk before leading you back into Newmarket for a well-earned supper. Full details at www.discoversuffolk.org.uk CAMBRIDGE TO DUXFORD AIR MUSEUM Make a day of it on two wheels, or maybe even try
FANCY TAKING PART IN A CHARITY CYCLE AND PEDALLING FOR POUNDS? HERE ARE OUR TOP THREE: NORWICH 100/50/25 | SUNDAY 4 JUNE Voted number 1 in The Independent’s 10 Best Cycling events, choose from 100, 50 or 25 miles of stunning countryside and coast while raising money for British Heart Foundation; the nation’s heart charity. Full details at www.bike-events.com CAMBRIDGE 50/35 | SUNDAY 30 APRIL Starting and finishing on the outskirts of Cambridge, raise money for Prostate Cancer Research during the 35 or 50 mile charity challenge with a real festival feel. Full details at www.bike-events.com CAMBRIDGE TO NORWICH | SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER Back for the 7th year running, this beautiful charity ride in aid of Spinal Injuries Association takes you on a 77 mile route through autumnal East Anglia, with patchwork fields, fenland and a few friendly pubs along the way. You’ll be met at the finish line at Earlham Park with sports massage, beer tent, great food and live music. Full details at www.bike-events.com
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SCARF!
FASHION
Say it with a
Written by Ruth Essex
With April’s in-between weather the scarf becomes a saviour accessory. I am a huge fan of scarves and have mine organised into winter woollies, furry, pashminas, cotton, silks and chiffons, and I pack away sections as the weather changes. A pashmina provides warmth without weight; add to dresses as a shrug in the summer, or to give colour around your face with a jacket in spring and autumn. They are year round versatile so it is worth building a small collection in your best colours. Try a pink or coral, a red, and blue or green as these will lift your neutrals (camel, navy, brown, black or grey.) The originals are traditionally hand spun from the fine cashmere wool of the Pashmina goat which lives at high altitudes in India, Nepal and Pakistan and can cost over £100 for a large scarf. Today you will also find them made of wool and viscose too which are less expensive to manufacture and hence available at more affordable prices. Why not try the Celtic knot? It is an interesting knot yet it still lies flat so avoiding adding too much bulk if you are top heavy. Tying a scarf stylishly is something I am often asked about by clients and this video clip on YouTube is really easy to follow: www.wendyslookbook.com/2011/04/behind-the-scenes25-ways-to-wear-a-scarf There are a myriad of different scarves to choose from and everyone should be able to find one in their budget, in a colour they love, that makes them feel great. Like sunshine on a rainy day, scarves can add a little joy to your outfit; which I feel makes them just perfect for Spring.
Ruth Essex is an image consultant at Mycolourcoach.co.uk | Tel: 07900 910 666
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Cambridgeshire (2, 3, 4, 5)_Cambridgeshire 25/08/2015 16:38 Page 1
Kimbolton Castle A wedding at Kimbolton Castle is a magical affair in a stately home with beautiful grounds. Couples have exclusive use of the State Rooms. Our experienced team will guide you through your tailor made preparations at the Castle ensuring that your wedding day runs according to plan. • Up to 120 guests for both the ceremony and wedding breakfast • Up to 250 guests for the evening • Licensed for civil ceremonies
INDULGE YOURSELF
The Castle has its own caterers who provide a professional service offering a wide selection of menus and an extensive wine list.
Buy Online www.elouiselingerie.co.uk
Bookings for 2018 & 2019 now being taken
Elouise Lingerie, 40 High Street, Buckden, Cambs PE19 5XA Telephone: 01480 812740 Email: sales@elouiselingerie.co.uk
bursarysec@kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk
Whether you’re after the perfect piece for an exclusive event, the holiday of a lifetime or simply because you deserve a treat, Elouise Lingerie has a stunning collection that is hard to match. The Cambridgeshire-based designer boutique stocks sophisticated lingerie from international brands, along with glamorous swimwear, luxury nightwear and fine hosiery - everything you need to feel extra special. Gift-wrapping available.
NEW! Spring Collections now in store
11 Market Place, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6EA Open 7 Days | 01502 722372 | info@dennyofsouthwold.co.uk
WEDDINGS
THE WEDDING
GURU
SPRING WEDDING ESSENTIALS Written by Katrina Otter
I absolutely adore spring and the promise of longer (and hopefully warmer!) days. I also love the fact that spring heralds the start of another wedding season. So, as I prepare for my first wedding of 2017, I thought I’d share with you some of my seasonal wedding essentials that will see you safely through to summer. UMBRELLAS We all know about April showers and, when it comes to your wedding day, there’s no reason to just cross your fingers and hope for the best. Stock up on big umbrellas so whatever the weather, you’ll be kept dry. Of course, you can buy or hire ‘wedding umbrellas’ in whites and ivories but you might like to go for some brighter colours instead for those personality-packed photos. WARM WEATHER ESSENTIALS And of course, on the flip side, we also get spring days that are much hotter than we expect so there’s every chance you’ll need warm weather essentials too. If the forecast is favourable, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, insect repellant and even anti-histamines in case of any pollen overload. SPRING FLOWERS Florists everywhere love the flowers that arrive at this time of year so if you want to give your wedding an air of spring, definitely include some seasonal blooms in your décor scheme. Hellebores, lilacs, narcissi, tulips, ranunculus and guelder rose are fabulous choices and if you’re a late spring bride, it’s all about the peonies! GOLDEN MOMENTS Once the clocks have changed and the sun stays around for longer, you can certainly put some ‘golden hour’ photos into your wedding day plan. This hour, the 60 minutes before the sun sets, is the time for those beautifully lit iconic and intimate couples’ shots that you see in magazines and online. Check the time of golden hour in
Rebecca Goddard Photography
advance and adjust your wedding plans accordingly so that you’re free to sneak off with your photographer at just the right moment. BLOSSOM AND BLUEBELLS A spring wedding really isn’t complete without some photos that capture the beauty of the season. Scout out your venue in advance to see where the best spots will be for images that are full of the joys of spring. SPRING COLOURS Every year, the colour pros at Pantone release their pick of hot seasonal colours. This year, Pantone have left behind the pretty pastels and embraced bolder colours that all carry a hint of the great outdoors. With shades such as ‘Primrose Yellow’, ‘Hazelnut’, ‘Greenery’ and ‘Niagra’, I think you can guess what this springs palette looks like!
If you’re looking for more advice on how to plan the perfect spring wedding then please do get in touch, I’d love to hear from you. www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk
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Mis-sold PPI
CONSUMER
Martin Lewis Talks...
The UK’s biggest ever financial scam wasn’t done by dodgy blokes in back alleys, but by bankers in pin stripe. Yet now the regulator, the FCA, has given in to banks demands to protect their balance sheets and put a deadline on reclaiming PPI. Over £20 billion of PPI has been repaid so far, and I suspect it’ll be £30 billion before we’re done. You may be thinking you’ve heard this before. After all, I first warned about PPI in 2000, and published my first reclaiming guide in 2006. Everyone who HAS or EVER HAD a loan, credit card, store card, mortgage, overdraft or catalogue debt, should sit up and take note of these five facts: 1. Now, just having had PPI means most were mis-sold. 2. The deadline’s 2019, but act ASAP to beat the queue. 3. Don’t assume ‘it’s not me’ - even if you said ‘no’ to it. 4. Don’t pay to reclaim. Free tools can do it for you. 5. A typical payout is £3,000 - so it’s worth your time. For full help and my free reclaiming tool go to www.mse.me/ppi (I’m very proud over 6.5m of my free template letters have been downloaded, getting people an estimated up to £5bn back). Here’s a quicker Q&A… Q. I’VE HEARD OF IT, BUT WHAT EXACTLY IS PPI MIS-SELLING? PPI stands for ‘payment protection insurance’ an insurance policy sold to cover a year’s repayments on debts in case of accident, sickness or unemployment, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Yet for years banks saw it as a cash cow, and systematically mis-sold this insurance – as it made them more profit than the loan itself. The banks lied that it was compulsory or would get you a cheaper rate, gave it to people who didn’t need it, couldn’t use it, and even added to some people’s loans after they’d said ‘no’ to it. Q. WHEN IS THE DEADLINE? The regulator, the FCA has said the last day you’ll be able to put in a claim for PPI mis-selling is 29 August 2019. While that sounds a long time away,
from this August it’ll spend millions promoting the cut off, so the system is likely to get clogged up, therefore go quickly to avoid being stuck at the back of the queue. Q. I HAD PPI BUT WHAT COUNTS AS MIS-SELLING? Typical examples include; they lied that PPI was compulsory, or it’d cut your loan costs, sometimes it was added without asking, or even after you’d said ‘no’. They had a duty to ensure it was suitable for you. See my full mis-selling checklist at www.mse.me/ppi#checklist Q. HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAD PPI? You have to check, and as you can go back as long as you like (some reclaim on 20 year old long closed loans) don’t assume you didn’t. -Check your old loans paperwork: It may have been called PPI or something like “payment insurance” or, “accident or sickness cover”. If you don’t have your paperwork, you can request it from your lender going back up to six years. -What if I can’t remember my lender? Your credit report shows all lending active within the last six years. You can get Experian’s (the UK’s biggest agency) totally free from www.mse.me/creditclub and Equifax’s via www.callcredit.co.uk - What if I haven’t got paperwork? If you haven’t got your paperwork you can ask the lender for it (going back six years). If it refuses you can force it to give it to you under the data protection act. If it’s more than six years, and you don’t have the paperwork, sometimes there’s little you can do. Read more advice at www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip
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IN THE
SPOTLIGHT: This year Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa celebrates its 25th Anniversary. We caught up with managing director Tarnia Robertson to find out what has contributed to the independently owned hotel’s success…
FACT FILE NAME: Tarnia Robertson COMPANY: Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa – Started February 2001 LOCATION: Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge Suffolk
ABOUT COMPANY: Ufford Park is an independently owned and run family hotel with 90 bedrooms, health club, spa and 120 acre golf course. It started trading in April 1992 and two years ago was passed onto the 2nd generation to run. The hotel is currently going through a full refurbishment programme which is expected to take up to five years and cost approx. £1M. WHAT’S YOUR POSITION AT THE COMPANY? In April 2015, I took over as Managing Director having been with the company since 2001 as Marketing Manager, and then Marketing Director. My current role includes hitting the budget by controlling costs and increasing revenue, improving the product with project managing refurbishment works and improve standards and customer services throughout. WHAT MAKES YOUR HOTEL UNIQUE? Our staff – they are helpful, friendly and nothing is too much trouble. This is the feedback we get from over 90% of our customers. Also, our location not just being set in 120 acres of parkland, but also our central location to explore the wonders of Suffolk!
Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK? How varied it is – two days are never the same – it is also so rewarding when you get good feedback from customers. I also have to say that I like being in a position to see what needs doing and having the autonomy to do something about it. WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS’ BIGGEST CHALLENGE? Getting local people to realise that we are open to everyone not just members or residents. For years we have battled with this marketing message despite shouting about it on social media and magazines! People still don’t realise they can just come up for coffee and a slice of our homemade cake, or to use the driving range or enjoy our Sunday Lunch. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND? How beautiful it is and just how much is on our doorstep for visitors and locals to enjoy. Being a top tourism destination does keep us all busy. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN EAST ANGLIA? I enjoy the coastlines of Suffolk – walking from Thorpeness to Aldeburgh, Southwold Pier, Framlingham Castle, the Forests of Rendlesham and the shopping at Bury, Cambridge and Norwich. And the arts in Ipswich – DanceEast & The New Wolsey. There is just so much to do! WHAT EVENTS ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR? Seeing Take That live at Norwich Football Ground in June – I have been a huge fan for years! WHAT CAN EASTLIFE READERS EXPECT FROM UFFORD PARK THIS YEAR? Now that our new Adventure Golf Course “Congo Rapids Lost World’’ is open we hope to attract even more local people to the hotel. We regularly host events from Tribute Nights, 80s Disco, Wedding Shows to Christmas Party Nights & New Year’s Eve Gala Dinners. You will also see more refurbishment work done as we move smoothly into the 21st century. www.uffordpark.co.uk
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Brand new bigger showroom Now Open Come and visit us at Unit 2J Merlin Court, Lancaster Way Business Park, Witchford. CB6 3GN
We offer a full bespoke lighting design service from conception to installation
Witchford lighting Centre Ltd www.witchfordlighting.co.uk 01353 664108
MOTORING
RENAULT ZOE
FACTS AT
A
GLANCE
MODEL: Renault ZOE Signature R90 Z.E.40 PRICE: £19,895 (after PICG). Battery rental from £59 per month ENGINE: 1.25 litre petrol with 83hp PERFORMANCE: NEDC range 250 miles. 0-62mph in 13.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 84mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 0g/km. VED Band: A Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars Like many other car-buyers I’ve tended to shy away from an all-electric vehicle. One of the main reasons is that you can’t drive very far before the battery needs recharging. I was reading my 2013 review of the ZOE when Renault launched the B segment car and typical of the electric cars at the time, maximum mileage was around 80. But with the launch of the new ZOE which is on sale now, there is a new battery. It is the same size but denser which provides 41kw per hour, in comparison to its predecessor which gave 22kw per hour. And all that means the new ZOE is now more consumer-friendly. Fitted with this new Z.E.40 battery, the ZOE now offers a 250 mile (NEDC) range. Renault hopes this will increase sales which have reached over 6,000 in the UK since its launch. New customers, will also benefit from a free wallbox for the overnight 7.5 hour charge which using Economy 7 costs less than 2p per mile or £3.50 per night. You can also make a Rapid Charge which takes one hour. And the ZE Trip is an app which will help you find the nearest charging post. For those who may not have the technology to charge their car at home overnight, with the increase in mileage, they have the opportunity to drive the car all week and charge at their local shopping centre at the weekend. Apart from pin drop quietness behind the wheel,
there is very little that is different when driving an electric car to driving a fuel combustion car. The latest figures from the SMMT show that the alternatively fuelled vehicle segment grew 19.9% to take a record 4.2% market share – the first time 4% has been surpassed. Private motorists have led the increase in the latest sales figures. The Renault ZOE has had new upgrades to the interior and exterior and there is a beautiful top of the range Signature trim which has a host of equipment including cruise control, speed limiter, a Bose sound system, reversing camera, heated front seats and a gorgeous leather interior. But you will pay £19,895. The ZOE starts at £13,995. You have to remember that every piece of equipment that you switch on uses the battery charge, so reducing the mileage achievable! The other worry that buyers have is the life of the battery. But you can buy the ZOE and lease the battery or buy the battery for £5,600 with a warranty of 100,000 miles or eight years. What I like about the ZOE is the gradual deceleration. Lift your foot off the accelerator with many electric cars and the vehicle will suddenly come to a full stop. The ZOE doesn’t and like a fuel combustion vehicle, deceleration is gradual. The new Renault ZOE, which is the flagship vehicle for Renault’s 100 per cent electric vehicle range, is set to transform the way that people look at electric cars. And within its price range, it is certainly one of the best all electric cars I have driven.
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00137-Homebrands Advert 240x168.indd 1
18/01/2017 15:29
HOME & GARDEN
WET ROOMS
the essential guide
Written by Edward Potter, digital marketing executive at www.victorianplumbing.co.uk
Over the past decade shower rooms have become highly desired. If you’re thinking of taking the plunge and refurbishing your bathroom, here are a few things to consider: The popularity of shower rooms (or wet rooms as they are sometimes called) has been steadily increasing over the past decade. The expectation of home buyers and reduced cost of buying your bathroom online have both contributed to this increase in popularity. PLAN AHEAD Before undergoing a shower room renovation, take a minute to consider the size of the room you plan to convert. Shower rooms can effectively be any size however small spaces can really benefit from this style of room. Converting a small room will also reduce the cost of installation however bear in mind that smaller spaces are more prone to splashes and spray so make sure to place a shower screen between your shower and the rest of your bathroom. Another shower room trend to consider when planning out your room is wall hung fixtures and fittings. Wall hung vanity units and wall hung toilets with concealed cisterns are great choices that will open up the floor of your bathroom and also make cleaning that little bit easier.
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A top tip when waterproofing your wet room is to raise the threshold of your bathroom door by approximately 5mm. This will make sure that water isn’t allowed to flow into another room of your house should your wetroom floor fill up because your drain is being blocked by a fallen towel or tissue paper. The popularity of shower rooms have been influenced in recent times by the fact that you can now install a shower room on a smaller budget thanks to cheaper prices found on the internet. If you are willing to shop around and compare prices online then you could find that the cost of installing a shower room can be as low as £3,000.
Premier Wetroom Screen, £69.95
This price might seem a lot compared to the price of a more conventional bathroom suite however if you think of this money as being an investment in your property then you should definitely see a return on your investment should you choose to sell your home in the future.
TOP OF THE TILES The tiles you choose for your new shower room are important. As well as choosing tiles that match your room’s style and budget, remember to go for non-porous porcelain or ceramic tiles that don’t allow water through rather than porous materials like natural stone. Another factor to consider is the surface of the tiles you use on the floor of your wet room. Floor tiles with a slightly abrasive surface (or anti-slip tiles as they are sometimes called) are much easier to walk on when your floor is wet. WATERPROOFING The floor of your shower room must have a gentle gradient or slope that allows freestanding water to drain off the floor and into your waste. Creating this gradient is usually achieved either one of two ways; you can create a sub-floor in your bathroom out of WBP Ply (a type of plywood) or alternatively you can opt for a ready-made and ready-sloped showerlay which you can then tile on top. Both solutions require you to prime both the floor and the bottoms of your walls to ensure a completely waterproof surface.
Imperia Graphite Slate-Effect Shower Tray £289.95 VictorianPlumbing.co.uk
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The Glasswells
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5 WAYS TO SAVE ENERGY IN YOUR HOME Written by Claire Lancaster (www.cheshiremum.co.uk) Saving energy isn’t just about helping you to save electricity or be more energy efficient — it’s also a great way to save money.
minimise heat loss through the walls of your home, the investment will return more savings within 2-3 years.
We all know we could do more around the home to save energy, but where to start? While some of the biggest energy savers require time and money there are still plenty of lifestyle changes you can make that will save energy, and money.
3. Get cosy. Draught proof around your front door (including the letter box) to help prevent cold air rushing into your home during the winter months. Don’t forget your chimney, install chimney balloons or a chimney sheep – both work in the same way to stop cold draughts come down the chimney, just remember they are up there before you relight the fire!
We live in a time where it seems that the energy companies are constantly putting up gas and electricity prices, so these ideas should hopefully allow you to keep more of your hard earned cash in your pockets. 1. Switch energy supplier. If you haven’t reviewed and switched energy suppliers for a while there’s no time like the present. Households could save up to £221 if they switch energy suppliers, but millions don’t bother. This is one of the easiest switch-tosave measures, so get on with it. 2. Insulate the loft. Make sure your home is properly insulated. Install insulation in the loft to help prevent heat escaping up through the top of your property (ideally 100% natural sheep wool). Cavity wall insulation is also fairly a low cost option to help
4. Watch your windows. Install insulating blinds such as Duette® energy saving blinds. Their innovative honeycomb design prevents heat escaping through windows, which in turn lowers heating bills. Duette® blinds are proven reduce heat loss by up to 46% and can reduce heating bills by up to a quarter over the course of a year. 5. Fit radiator reflectors. These clever products stop heat escaping through the wall behind your radiator, so your home stays cosy and you save money! Radflek is the most efficient radiator reflector available – reflecting an impressive 95% of the wasted heat from the rear of the radiator back into the room.
Image: Duette® energy saving blinds start at around £150, Duette® blinds www.duette.co.uk
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SUMMER SCENTS Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decade’s hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes. www.kategouldgardens.com
Our olfactory sense is fast becoming a highly recognized centre for memory generation as well as good scents giving a greater sense of well-being. When it comes to the gardens we have access to and spend our time in, the trend of planting for scent is fast climbing the list of must haves for home owners and designers alike. Mown grass, summer rain and roses all conjure up memories of lazy summer days when work is far from your mind and the summer seems endless. So many heady scents in the garden can take us back to happy times but there is no reason to plant solely with the past in mind. With so many fragrant plants to choose from there are many more new memories to make; try these plants to add scent to your summer garden. This is when scent is at its most romantic and powerful. There are of course masses of plants to chose from but these are absolute favourites: Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’ is a rangy deciduous shrub that looks not overly interesting until it is smothered in white cup shaped flowers in summer. More commonly known as Mock Orange it has the same orange blossom scent that reminds you of holidays in warmer climates. Once flowered it can be pruned but essentially this Philadelphus is a low maintenance shrub which copes very well with a wide range of soils and conditions.
Rosa ‘Falstaff’ is an old fashioned shrub rose with wonderful double cupped flowers of the darkest wine red which persist throughout the summer. Its scent is classically ‘old rose’ and being only about 1.2m tall and wide at maturity it could find a home in all but the smallest of gardens.
Lonicera japonica ‘Halliana’ is a great plant for a sunny or part shaded location and will in milder areas retain most of its leaves during the winter. It is the flowers though that it is known for. Tubular white flowers age to cream and literally smother the plant, which can grow up to 10m in height for months on end in the summer. It is therefore best grown up a sturdy pergola or an old tree stump and will do best when mulched with well-rotted manure in the spring.
Paeonia lactiflora ‘Festiva Maxima’ AGM is heavily scented with a sweet and musky perfume and Paeonia lactiflora ‘Duchess de Nemours’ AGM is a sumptuous white with a pale cream ruffled centre with an intoxicating lemon scent.
Another great lemon-scented peony is Paeonia ‘Bartzella’ AGM which is an intersectional peony (a cross between a tree peony and an herbaceous peony) which offers huge bright yellow flowers to boot. Intersectional Peonies can be hard to track down sometimes but www.primrosehall.co.uk have a good selection worth checking out. If you only plant one plant this year make it a scented one. Flowers and scent combine to make a garden feel much more than just a collection of plants.
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From Butchers to office to swanky seaside apartment, we take a look at the renovation journey of Acanthus of Southwold’s ‘Treasure Chest’ Rebecca Rix-Meo has been involved in the family business Acanthus of Southwold for over 16 years and took full ownership five years ago. A busy little independent holiday letting agency based in the heart of Southwold she had always admired the talents of people buying unloved or forgotten period properties on the Suffolk coast and breathing life back into them. “Over the years I have been green with envy, each time I visit a stunning new property to arrange renting it out and end up going home wanting to re-design my own house! In fact, we had just finished renovating our Victorian house in Diss, which we bought at auction and we had one of those ‘morning coffee moments’ of revelation...Our beautiful 1840s office in Trinity Street had a whole top floor dedicated to, well, absolutely nothing!” After careful planning Rebecca and her husband set about transforming the had been storage area into a luxurious holiday let. “We had to really look after the buildings fragile fabric which is steeped in history, from its original ownership as stores for Adnams, and then later a much loved butchers shop,” she explains. The renovation revealed old hardwood timbers with unusual markings and cuts, which Rebecca was convinced were “washed up from an old wreaked
ship off Walberswick in the 1800s” but it led to the naming of the apartment; ‘The Treasure Chest’. Dedication went into restoring the apartment with any timbers that were removed carefully put back as features such as a bench seat for the dining area and window ledges. The renovation was complete in five months and detailed attention was given to create a light and airy interior. Rebecca said: “Everything was sourced locally, funky little items of art were purchased from ‘Wow’ vintage in Southwold and local craft and antique shops. Items of furniture were handmade and hand painted by a company in my home town of Diss ‘Hilary and Alice’. Our stunning table was lovingly handmade by Norfolk reclamation Nr Norwich. Everyone who worked on the project were local trades who we have known and worked with for years.” The ‘Treasure Chest’ is a gem on the Suffolk Coast appealing to young travellers and couples looking to escape the city for a short break. “It really makes it so worthwhile when we have delighted guests and when I take a step back and realise what we have made really from nothing,” adds Rebecca. “I have to now stop myself thinking about the next project - don’t tell my husband I said that!” ‘The Treasure Chest’ can be booked at www.southwold-holidays.co.uk or 01502 724033
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Harwich by Ted Toms
Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right. This month, inspired by the promise of warmer weather, I am recommending a return journey to Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex. Here you can enjoy the very beautiful historic landmark that is the Naze Tower. As well as the spectacular panoramic views from the roof viewing platform, hot beverages from the tearoom and a tour of the museum, you can also take the opportunity to catch a superb exhibition of artwork from a range of established favourites and emerging newcomers. Once again the Naze Tower gallery is delighting us with three wonderfully different exhibitions welcoming in the spring season. From 1 April to 18 June you can catch solo shows from Ted Toms and Sara E Napoletan, and a group show including Brin Edwards and Annette Standing, amongst others. Oils, acrylic and watercolours are beautifully curated alongside ceramics, sculpture and jewellery. As always, the Naze offers a visual feast of art, craft and curio. The fresh and uplifting oil paintings of Ted Toms are popular throughout the country. His studio in Bradfield, Essex, is close to the Stour Estuary and he takes much of his inspiration from here. Beautiful dappled sunlight bounces from serene rippled North Sea surfaces, while mysterious broken reflections
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disappear into the quietly rolling tide. Both soft and bold his brushstrokes and palette are dreamy and yet at times produce super-real views that are poised to come to life. Also poised for life are the flitting and shimmering oils of Brin Edwards. Based in Suffolk, Brin has painted wildlife and birds for as long as he can remember. Barn owls, Bullfinches and Plovers, as well as many other species interact with and take command of his landscapes. Daubs and dashes boldly combine with an exciting and sensitive pallet creating stunning paintings that sparkle with vitality. All three exhibitions showcase the work of nine different artists, each contributing to the rich diversity and texture that the shows offer. Paintings, drawings, original prints, a host of three-dimensional work and the invigorating and unique surroundings, combine to make this exhibition highly satisfying for all the senses. The visual and constructed mastery of man alongside the beauty and organic spirit of nature collaborate to provide a wonderfully inspiring space. Spring Exhibitions, 1 April – 18 June Naze Tower, The Naze, Old Hall Lane, Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex CO14 8LE Tel: 01255 852519 | www.nazetower.co.uk
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APRIL ARTS NEWS I DREAM OF THE SEA: NEW KAREN SJ KEABLE EXHIBITION Renowned and sought after East Anglian artist Karen SJ Keable is celebrating her 50th year and 15 successful years as a recognised artist with a new exhibition. ‘Evening Reflections’ by Karen SJ Keable
‘I Dream of the Sea’ runs 24 March-17 April at the Southwold Gallery, and is Karen’s first solo exhibition in over two years. Coinciding with the busy Easter holiday season in Southwold, it showcases 24 new pieces of work that exemplify Karen’s skill at vibrantly capturing iconic Suffolk and Norfolk landscapes, places and images. When asked about her inspiration for this exhibition Karen said: “I love being by the sea and everything that our Norfolk and Suffolk coastline has to offer. I always strive to incorporate light and life in my paintings; transporting the viewer in the same way as bringing a shell to your ear and listening to the sea.”
John Piper - ‘St Nicholas Alcester’
JOHN PIPER: PAINTINGS AND PRINTS Thompson’s Gallery are hosting what will be the largest collection of works by John Piper in East Anglia from 15 April to 15 May. John Piper was an English painter, printmaker, designer of stained-glass windows and theatre sets. His overriding fascination was vernacular and ecclesiastical architecture - abbeys, churches, houses, castles, cottages and details of architectural design were frequent subjects for his paintings and prints. Piper had strong associations with East Anglia and Aldeburgh in general, where a very fond friendship with Benjamin Britten leads him to design almost all of Britten’s stage works. www.thompsonsgallery.com
TESS AINLEY GALLERY INTRODUCES NEW ARTIST Simon Kirk is the latest artist to be introduced to Tess Ainley Gallery in Holt, North Norfolk. Simon is a contemporary artist based in Leigh-onSea and free associates images and cut-up text to evoke haiku and the allusions that help us view everyday life with fresh eyes. His work is primarily layers of painting combined with collaged elements and he also uses the decollage technique - cutting, tearing or sanding away parts of the built up surface image to reveal layers below. Having opened in November 2016, the friendly gallery is currently showing the work of several artists who engage in paint, collage, ceramics, mixed media, jewellery, photography, wood and furniture. It has a busy summer lined up including taking part in Norfolk and Norwich Open Studios 27 May – 11 June and the Holt Fringe Festival on 2 - 30 July.
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Written by Tracey Dean
This year throughout spring and summer Cambridge plays host to a variety of must see festivals and events that you won’t want to miss! Here’s our top 10 list of what Cambridge’s cultural scene has to offer during the warmer months of the year: CAMBRIDGE LITERARY FESTIVAL, 18 – 23 APRIL Now in its fourteenth year this hugely popular event showcases writers from a wide range of genres. Highlights include a host of recognisable names discussing their latest books including Jo Malone, Tom Kerridge and BBC Foreign Affairs Correspondent John Simpson. Children’s book author Jaqueline Wilson will also be in attendance giving a sneak peak of her latest novel. For tickets visit www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com
Cambridge Folk Festival
CAMBRIDGE BEER FESTIVAL, 22 - 27 MAY Beer lovers will not want to miss sampling a host of local and national beers at one of the largest beer festivals in the region. The festival organised by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) takes place on Jesus Green, and also includes their famous cheese counter selling a selection of fine cheeses, savoury items and locally produced bread. www.cambridgebeerfestival.com
CAMBRIDGE TOWN AND COUNTRY SHOW, 10 – 11 JUNE A fun packed day is sure to be had at this family-friendly event featuring a host of activities to watch and enjoy. Held on Parker’s Piece, be sure to witness the historical re-enactments and pick up some local produce from the variety of stalls that will be there throughout the weekend. You also won’t want to miss the birds of prey flying displays or meeting the animals in the petting pens! www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/cambridge-town-country-fair
STRAWBERRY FAIR, 3 JUNE The Strawberry Fair is a free one-day music and arts event taking place in the heart of Cambridge at the Midsummer Common. This year’s fair will have a fairytale theme where over 30,000 visitors will enjoy live music, a dazzling parade and a market including delicious food and craft stalls. www.strawberry-fair.org.uk
MIDSUMMER FAIR, 21 -26 JUNE One of the longest established fairs in England is back this year with the much anticipated return of the traditional large scale funfair. Whether you want a go on the spinning Waltzer ride or the all time favourite Dodgems there’s something for everyone to enjoy. There will also be a market featuring tempting street food and an array of stalls ranging
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Cambridge Roar
from clothes and jewellery to crafts and soft furnishings. The event takes place on MIdsummer Common. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/city-events/events/mid summer-fair CAMBRIDGE ROAR, JUNE – SEPTEMBER 2017 A festival of events that raises thousands of pounds of much needed funds for a variety of local charities. This year’s highlights include a comedy night, summer ball and a VIP champagne event where attendees will be greeted on the red carpet before enjoying a luxury three course meal. For tickets visit www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk
CAMBRIDGE SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL, 14 -29 JULY Featuring world class performers this classical music event takes place in some of the city’s most historic venues including universities, museums and churches. This year’s high calibre of performers include music from pianist Freddy Kempf, the Aurora Orchestra and award-winning choir Tenebrae. For more info visit www.cambridgesummermusic.co.uk/ cambridge-summer-music-festival-2017 CAMBRIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL, 27 – 30 JULY Join thousands of music enthusiasts to hear some of the best folk music around at one of the longest running folk festivals in the world. Taking place at Cherry Hinton Hall, this year’s acts include the number one selling artist Jake Bugg and award-winning folk trio Lau. For tickets visit www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/folk-festival
Read more from Tracey at www.traceydean.co.uk or follow her on Twitter @TraceyDeanBlog
CAMBRIDGE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL – DATE TBC Watch and appreciate some of Shakespeare’s finest work at this crowd pleasing eight week festival. Taking place at a variety of Cambridge University colleges be sure to enjoy a picnic in the picturesque settings as you revel in the shows that are acted out in full period costume and feature live music. www.cambridgeshakespeare.com BIG WEEKEND, 7 – 9 JULY The Big Weekend will see Parkers Piece bustling with activity including a range of workshops, face painting that the little ones will love and spectacular fireworks! The music line up for this incredibly popular event is yet to be announced but you can expect fantastic DJs and music from new and established acts to top the bill. For more info www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/ city-events/events/big-weekend
Big Weekend
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WHAT’S ON in Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 4-8 Apr The Count of Monte Cristo This fast-moving and exciting new stage adaptation of Alexandra Dumas’ famous adventure story effectively captures the novel’s universal themes of hope, justice, vengeance, mercy, and forgiveness. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com
14-Apr Foil Arms and Hog: Doomdah Ireland’s top comedy trio. Over ten million hits on YouTube. Foil, Arms and Hog present a delicious blend of bizarre, surreal and hilarious comedy scenes with outrageous characters and unexpected twists. Catch these lads while you can. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk
6-Apr Twelfth Night Where music is the food of love, and nobody is quite what they seem, anything proves possible. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com
15-Apr Omid Djalili Award-winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili known for his legendary stand-up performances is back on a nationwide tour! Intelligent, sometimes provocative and always entertaining, his stand-up is a hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
8-Apr The Noise Next Door: Uproar Join the quickest wits in comedy as they transform audience suggestions into a fantastic, fresh new entertainment experience every single night.The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 10-15 Apr Abigail’s Party As the party gets out of hand, it descends into chaos, and comedy, drama and tragedy combine into an iconic piece of theatre. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 11-15 Apr The Full Monty A musical that’s heart-warming, funny and just a bit naughty! Meet Jerry and his friends, unemployed and down on their luck in Buffalo, New York. Could joining forces to perform a strip act at a local nightclub be their ticket out of financial woes and other problems? ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 11-Apr Jewels George Balanchine’s glittering ballet ‘Jewels’ was inspired by the beauty of the gem stones he saw in New York. He went on to make history with this, the first abstract three-act ballet, first performed in 1967 by New York City Ballet. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 11-Apr Robin Hood - An Easter Panto Will Robin seize the day and win the hand of his fair Maid Marion? All will be revealed in a another laugh a minute, all-singing, all-dancing rollercoaster ride through pantoland! Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 13-Apr Chester Tuffnut This is a story about discovering new places, making friends and inspiring everyone to have at least one adventure a day. Key Studio, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
17-22 Apr The Play That Goes Wrong Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off in this multi award-winning West End smash hit comedy, returning to Cambridge after the success of 2015’s ‘Peter Pan Goes Wrong’. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 18-Apr The Wizard of Oz Join Dorothy Gale as she befriends a brainless scarecrow, a loveable Tin Man and the cowardly Lion on their quest to thwart the evil powers of the Wicked Witch of The West. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 19-Apr Goldilocks & The Three Bears Bringing this classic children’s story to life, ‘Goldilocks & the Three Bears’ is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 20-21 Apr Beauty & The Beast Belle lives a quiet provincial life in the village of Ooh La La… until an Evil Enchantress arrives in town. Enjoy an all-singing, all-dancing, laugh a minute ride through panto land! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Apr Luke Wright: The Toll Spend an evening with a raconteur at the top of his game, as he spits out visceral, inventive verse that sweats, bleeds and sings. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 21-Apr Jonny & The Baptists: Eat The Poor A riotously funny epic about inequality, friendship and betrayal from the multi-award-nominated musical comedians, as featured on Radio 4’s The Now Show and the BBC’s Live at Television
Centre. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 25-29 Apr English Touring Opera: Tosca Puccini’s Tosca is one of the world’s best-loved operas, brimming with lust, corruption and intrigue. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 25-29 Apr Be My Baby 1964: four young women, unmarried and pregnant, are sent away from home to give birth. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 26-27 Apr English Touring Opera: Patience An all-singing, all-dancing comedy by the masters of British musical theatre. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 26-Apr Julius Caesar Caesar returns from war, all-conquering, but mutiny is rumbling through the corridors of power. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 30-Apr Scott Gibson: Life After Death A darkly hysterical, inspiring show, delivered with the trademark filthy charisma that Scott is known for; Life After Death is a tale of love and pain, fear and hope. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk MUSIC 10-Apr Georgie Fame A rare opportunity for UK music fans to witness a bona fide music legend performing live in concert. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 13-Apr Pink Martini In answer to huge demand from Pink Martini’s recent 21st Birthday tour, and the highly acclaimed new CD, Je dis oui!, they return to the UK in 2017 with the stunning vocals of Storm Large. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 15-Apr Little Mix Experience With breathtaking dance moves, replica costumes and some of the finest vocals in the UK, this is a high-energy show from beginning to end, packed with all of Little Mix’s greatest hits and suitable for all ages! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 18-Apr Faire is the Heaven Join the Cantilena Singers for an evening of unaccompanied and accompanied
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sacred music, including works by William Harris, Charles Wood, Herbert Howells, Samuel Sebastian Wesley, and others. St. Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Newmarket, CB8 0HP. 01223 813918 www.cantilenasingers.org
harmonies, authentic costumes and first class vocals and musicians, recreates the true feel and thrill of a live ABBA show. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk
19-Apr Michael English An accomplished musician & songwriter, the good looking Kildare man is now a big name on the circuit with his energetic performances which leave the crowds wanting more. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk
27-Apr Maxi Jazz & The E-Type Boys All of Maxi’s influences weave through the music, dubby baselines adding Jamaican melody to Bluesy guitar lines and smooth, heartfelt vocals. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk
19-Apr The Wytches Their mesh of sound is the musical embodiment of sixties surf dressed in severe Halloween costumes,and their ability to turn such agitation into something that is,against all odds, listenable. The Portland Arms, 129 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3BA. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 20-Apr Bye Bye Baby Taking you back in time on a musical journey through the career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, whose songs graced such films as The Deer Hunter, Dirty Dancing and Grease. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 21-Apr The King of Pop: The Legend Continues This superb production stars ‘Navi’ who is officially recognised as the world’s No.1 Michael Jackson tribute artist. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 21-Apr Hayseed Dixie Originally playing the traditional music of their forefathers on banjo, fiddle, mandolin, acoustic guitar and acoustic bass, all of this changed abruptly on discovering several vinyl AC/DC albums…The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 22-Apr Police Dog Hogan Originally a trio, Police Dog Hogan were formed in 2009 and have since developed into a high-energy and eclectic eight-piece band. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 25-Apr Caro Emerald Gorgeous and stylish, Caro blends retro jazz with sampling and modern pop to create her signature sound. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 26-Apr Country Superstars Experience Sarah Jayne and Award Winning Vocal Impersonator Andy Crust take us on a journey back through time meeting some of the most influential icons who shaped Country music history. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 26-Apr Orkestra Mendoza Orkestra Mendoza’s mix of cumbia, mambo, indie and tex-mex psychedelia – all in well-cut suits – is coming to Cambridge! Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 27-Apr Arrival - The Story of Abba The winning formula of fantastic hits,
28-29 Apr Lee Memphis King Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist recreates the essence of the King withan almost unbelievable combination of stunningly accurate vocals and incredible passion in every performance. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 29-Apr An Evening with Ian McCulloch This is a one off chance to experience the sounds of a true icon of British indie music. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 29-Apr Sam Bailey Hot off the back of her portrayal of Mama Morton in the critically-acclaimed musical Chicago, X Factor winner Sam Bailey returns to the stage with her very own live show. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Apr - 28 Aug Sea to Shore: Paintings by Alfred Wallis & Christopher Wood This third display from the Kettle’s Yard collection brings together paintings by Alfred Wallis and Christopher Wood that are inspired by the sea and shore. Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 8 Apr - 1 May Ian Scott Massie Exhibition Working first in oils, his work progressed through acrylic ink and paint before he became widely known as a watercolourist. More recently he has returned to screenprinting. Cambridge Contemporary Art, 6 Trinity Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QN. www.cambridgegallery.co.uk 24-29 Apr Cambridge Camera Club Annual Exhibition and Young Photographers’ Competition More than 200 prints and more than 200 Digital images are on show in this high quality photographic exhibition. The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RP. www.cambcc.org.uk 25-Apr Through The Eyes of An Artist Join Artist in Residence Charron Pugsley-Hill on a seasonal winter walk in the park looking at the landscapes with an artists perspective. Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5UU. 01733 234193. www.neneparktrust.org.uk 29-Apr The Drawing Tour This is a must for anyone who loves to draw but is also curious to find out more about the history of the Cathedral. Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. 01733 355315 www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS
1-13 Apr Adult Easter Hunt For the first time there will be an Easter Trail in the garden, just for adults and older children, with a cream tea as a prize. Peckover House and Garden, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE13 1JR www.nationaltrust.org.uk 14-Apr Wood Green’s Field Good Friday A fun family day celebrating the fabulous field animals! Meet & greet the animals and enjoy a wide range of activities for all the family! Wood Green Animal Charity, Kings Bush Farm, Godmanchester, PE29 2NH www.woodgreen.org.uk 17-21 Apr Easter Family Fun Children of all ages are invited to drop into the Cathedral on four days during the Easter holidays to discover the Easter story. Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. 01733 355315 www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 18 Apr - 7 May Lambing at Wimpole Home Farm Celebrate the arrival of spring by watching the frolics of new born lambs and learn about of the life of sheep. Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston, G8 0BW www.nationaltrust.org.uk 18-23 Apr Cambridge Literary Festival Cambridge Literary Festival is the foremost literary festival in the Eastern region. Explore the worlds of literature, media, science, history, politics, poetry, philosophy and children’s authors. Various venues around Cambridge, 01223 515335. www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com 21-Apr BANFF Mountain Film Festival World Tour Experience an extraordinary collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www. cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 23-Apr Science on Sundays A seasonal series of talks aims to bring the latest discoveries in plant science to our visitors in a 30 minute nutshell. University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside Leaf, Cambridge, CB2 1JE. 01223 336265 www. botanic.cam.ac.uk 30-Apr Cambridge 100 Bike Ride Starting and finishing on the outskirts of Cambridge, the ride takes you north through Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire towards the Norfolk coast. Impington Village College, New Road, Cambridge, CB24 9LX. www.bike-events.co.uk/cam bridge100 ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 1-Apr The Curiosity Fair Twenty stalls with a mixture of vintage antiques crafts and collectables in the David Raynor building at this busy garden centre. Entry £1. Scotsdales Garden Centre, 120 Cambridge Road, Gt Shelford CB22 5JT. 07803 167982 16-17 Apr St Ives Antiques Fair 55 specialist dealers. Free parking and on-site catering. Open 10am-4pm, entry £2. The Burgess Hall (One Leisure) Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU 22-23 Apr Hinchingbrooke House Antiques Fair 40+ dealers in fine antique furniture, pictures, silver, jewellery, clocks, ceramics
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BRENTWOOD
ESSEX
THE ONLY WAY IS Written by Abby Knight
It may have new found fame as a place for young and upwardly mobile to work, rest and play thanks to the popular TV show TOWIE but it seems Brentwood has been the home to more than a few famous faces throughout its long history! Originally formed in the clearing of the Great Forest that stretched as far as Epping in the west, it was first known as Burnt Wood as it was literally a clearing made in the forest by the burning of a stretch of woodland. It was the focus for many of the notorious characters that made up the Peasant’s Revolt. In 1381 both John Ball and Jack Straw met regularly to hatch their plans against the plot to tax the people in one of the many inns in Brentwood and Thomas Munn, a wealthy brick layer was infamously hung at Gallows Corner on the outskirts of Romford. The stunning Tudor Mary Green Manor house, which is now a luxurious hotel, is mentioned in Samuel Pepys’ diaries and was visited by Henry VIII. It’s still a popular choice for today’s celebrities to stay when they are playing at the Brentwood Centre. There’s plenty to do outdoors on a visit to Brentwood. In the small village of Kelvedon Hatch you’ll find the Secret Nuclear Bunker - a fascinating adventure back in time for all the family, or lose yourself in the forest and park land of the Weald Country park with its elegant wild deer. Looking for something good to eat? Check out Mason’s restaurant, a popular bistro-style venue that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Or try La Bicicletta that serves tasty authentic Italian food in a traditional English setting. Thai chain restaurant Giggling Squid
Brentwood Festival
is set to introduce its signature cuisine to Brentwood’s High Street in early April. It will open for lunch and dinner, with room for up to 100 guests, in a relaxed yet stylish setting. You’ll love the shops tucked away behind the High Street in Crown Street featuring some of the boutiques made popular by the cast of TOWIE. For fine art you’ll be spoilt for choice at the popular Brandler Gallery. There’s always something to do in Brentwood – from Old MacDonald’s Farm– one of the UK’s finest educational-style farms to the impressive ruins of Thomas Becket’s church in the high street. During the summer months there are plenty of festivals to visit too including the We Are Fstvl in nearby Upminster and the Brentwood Festival from 14-17 July, which welcomes a whole host of high profile acts every year including UB40 and Spandau Ballet.
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23 Ongar Road, Brentwood CM15 9 AU +44 7484 502660 www.galibelle.com
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Open Morning Saturday 10th June 2017
#ShapingLives Brentwood School - Half Page - March 2017.indd 2
Watch the new video on our website www.brentwoodschool.co.uk 07/03/2017 11:54:06
WHAT’S ON in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 4-8 Apr Grimm Tales Have you ever wondered what actually happened to Sleeping Beauty, or how the moon really appeared in the sky? Deep in the forest, there lives a group of story tellers who can tell you exactly just how Grimm these stories can be. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-onSea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 4-Apr Fascinating Aida’s Dillie Keane With some brand new songs, some grand old favourites, gorgeous songs of love and songs of disgraceful filth, Dillie will break your heart, mend it again and have it sent to the cleaners for pressing. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 5-15 Apr Harvey A light-hearted, Pulitzer Prize winning comedy set in the 1950s with two locations: the Dowd family mansion and Chumley’s mental institution. Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 5-Apr Brainiac Strap on your safety goggles boys and girls, due to popular demand Science’s greatest and most volatile live show is returning with a vengeance. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-onSea SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 6-8 Apr The Vicar of Dibley A stage adaptation by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter. All the quirky, much loved characters feature and resultantly chaos reigns! Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 6-Apr Marshall King: The Legends Show Marshall King is an all-round entertainer who is a naturally gifted mimic and singer, with a definite flair for comedy. Electric Palace, Kings Quay Street, Harwich, CO12 3ER. 07786 744789 www.tendringdc.gov.uk 7-Apr Glastonbabies Bring the freewheeling vibe of a great festival to your kids this Half-Term, combining top-class music, brilliant song and dance routines, and wonderful storytelling. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 8-Apr Omid Djalili Intelligent, sometimes provocative and always entertaining, don’t miss this hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk
8-Apr Brian Conley Brian will perform brand-new comedy, sketches and songs, alongside some of his best-known and loved retrospective material. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 9-11 Apr Twice Upon A Time All evil fairy-tale creatures are banished from the town centre because of their crimes. The magic ring of life and happiness is stolen and taken up the beanstalk. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 9-Apr Alice in Wonderland Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than- life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 11-15 Apr Caught in the Net Chaos ensues as London Cabbie John finds himself with a bit of a family predicament! Great fun with laughs galore from the master of farce. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea. SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-15 Apr Grease Dust off your leather jackets, pull on your bobby-socks and take a trip to a simpler time as Danny and Sandy fall in love all over again. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-13 Apr Russell Kane In this brand new show, Russell Kane unleashes another blisteringly-funny, award-winning stand-up performance about growing up and growing down. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-16 Apr Giselle Harlow Ballet Association present the most famous of surviving Romantic Ballet, ‘Giselle’, in a very authentic version, with full scenery, costumes and a great deal of the original choreography. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 12-Apr Dr Phil’s Health Revolution NHS doctor, BBC broadcaster, Private Eye journalist and whistle-blowing comic. Laugh, sort your life out, stay sane, plan your death and save the NHS - all in only 99 minutes. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 19-20 Apr Tamburlaine The story of a lowly shepherd who rises to power and conquers half the world
through sheer brutality and self-belief. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 19-Apr Performing Comedy Explore what makes us laugh, studying excerpts from a variety of plays and performance styles to explore the art of comedy both on the page and in performance. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 20-Apr An Audience with Ian Waite & Natalie Low Ian and Natalie have developed a whole new show with newly choreographed routines of their favourite Ballroom and Latin dances. Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 21 Apr - 13 May Educating Rita Written by the great Willy Russell, this iconic, hilarious and touching play won an Olivier Award in 1980 and remains as brilliant and relevant as ever. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 21 Apr - 13 May Spamalot Lovingly ripped off from the hugely successful 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot is a riotous comedy full of misfit knights, killer rabbits, dancing nuns and ferocious Frenchmen. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 22-Apr Pramkicker Following smash performances at Latitude, Edinburgh, and a UK tour, acclaimed Old Trunk bring their hit play to their hometown. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 22-Apr Lee Hurst Lee Hurst is back on the road with his next stand up show...Comedy Show No. 9. Come along for a night of laughs with that bald bloke you thought was dead. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 24-Apr 13: A New Musical With an unforgettable rock score from Tony Award-winning composer, Jason Robert Brown, 13 is a musical about fitting in – and standing out! Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 25-29 Apr The Verdict The powerful best-selling courtroom thriller that inspired a multi Academy Award-Nominated film. What price for the truth? Palace Theatre, 430 London
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COLNE VALLEY RAILWAY
INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR
More Than Just A Train Ride
(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter until the end of September 2017
Adults - £7 * Pensioners - £6 Children (over 5) - £3 Ingatestone Hall is available for hire throughout the year for fairs & exhibitions, concerts & plays, weddings & family celebrations etc.
1-mile length of line in North Essex with full-size steam and diesel train rides, ride-on railway, garden and model layouts. Visit a working signal box, Travelling Post Office, museum, buffet & shop. Large free car park.
OPENS EASTER SPECIAL EVENTS IN APRIL UNTIL END OF SEPTEMBER 2017
29thfor April Guided tours available groups at other times by prior appointment - Ring 01277 353010 CONCERT – Jackie Pittman
Open on selected dates from 2nd April 2017
For more information, see our website:
please call 01787 461174 or visit our website www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk for full information.
www.ingatestonehall.com
Tel. 01277 353010
Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk EOR2252-ADV0035-EoE-62x90.5mm-002.pdf
The Epping Ongar Railway is a fantastic, great value and accessible day out for the family. We are extremely easy to get to - our heritage buses pick you up from right outside Epping Underground and Shenfield stations.
2017
S*
RIENCE
3 EXPE
2017
We are open every weekend, Bank Holiday and Wednesdays in the school holidays from 1 April to the end of October.
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REAT VA ONE G OUT! DAY
* Not all experiences may be available on all operating days.
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Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 25-Apr Jimmy Carr Jimmy is gathering a selection of his very best jokes along with brand new material for the ultimate comedy show. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 28-29 Apr Hidden A love story about invisible disability. Can their relationship survive the challenges of accepting their newfound reality? Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 28-Apr The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart Follow Prudencia – an academic on her way to attend a conference in Kelso. As snow starts to fall, she begins a mystical adventure of self-discovery accompanied by plenty of folky musical moments. Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 29-Apr Simon Weston A truly inspirational show about one man’s journey from the front line of war, being on the edge of death, to today being a happy and contented Father, Grandfather and national treasure. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 30-Apr La Boheme This brand new production is traditionally staged and features beautiful sets and costumes. ‘La Bohème’ is one of the most romantic operas ever written. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 30-Apr Pasha Kovalev & His Dancers This brand new production features breathtaking choreography, sensational music and amazing costumes, to leave the audience supercharged with energy and stirring emotion. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com MUSIC 7-Apr Caro Emerald Gorgeous and stylish, Caro blends retro jazz with sampling and modern pop to create her signature sound. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8-Apr Boyband Mania The four talented boys combine exceptional vocals, energetic routines, and a large helping of 90s cheese to guarantee you are singing and dancing all night long. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8-Apr D’Ukes Formed in Chelmsford in 2009, D’Ukes emerged from a regular ukulele pub jam session. They have since gone on to perform on TV, BBC regional radio and local community Radio. Chelmsford Theatres, Duke Street, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 8-Apr Tubular Bells Live! After the international success of two
sold-out Tubular Bells Live! concerts in 2015, Phil Toms returns with members of his band to perform highlights from Mike Oldfield’s musical career. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre. co.uk 15-Apr One Night of Elvis Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, recreates the essence of the King. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 16-Apr Liam Grundy and his Band An evening of good time rocking country and Tennessee rock ‘n’ roll. Blending original material with classic bar-room anthems. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 20-Apr Steve Steinman’s ICONIC The creative force behind the hugely successful Vampires Rock, Steve Steinman’s new show delivers the best sound tracks from the coolest and Iconic movies of all time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk
28-Apr The Andrew Linham Quartet Join Andrew Linham and guests for a sublime afternoon of jazz standards and original material. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 29-Apr Nature Inspired Painting Learn how to paint with molten wax in this one-day workshop, a particularly effective and quick way to produce vivid hand painted work quickly. Abberton Reservoir, Church Road, Colchester, CO2 0EU. 01206 738172. SPECIAL EVENTS 1-17 Apr Spring into Easter Professor Nitrate leads the way in the Mad Lab with exciting science shows followed by playing with Bouncy Eggs, Non Newtonian Fluid and make your very own Bounce & Goo Fried Egg! Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY. 01992 707370 7-Apr Easter Sports Spectacular Beat the Street, Clacton Leisure Centre and local coaches are excited to bring you a fun, free, family friendly sports spectacular! Clacton Leisure Centre, Clacton on Sea
22-Apr Beverley Craven BRIT Award winner Beverley Craven will be back on the road performing around the country in 2016 as she continues to promote her acclaimed latest album ‘Change of Heart’. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow. com
8-Apr Essex Jailbreak It’s a race against time to get as far as possible from HM Prison Chelmsford in just 15 hours, without spending money or breaking laws, the annual Essex Jailbreak is a unique fundraising challenge! HM Prison Chelmsford, Springfield Park Hill, Chelmsford, CM2 6LQ. 01245 264783
27-Apr The Shires The Shires released their brand new album ‘My Universe’ in September, storming the charts, landing at No.3 and becoming the fastest-selling UK Country album of all time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk
9-Apr Farmers’ and Crafts Market Set in the beautiful surroundings of The Stables, our Farmers’ and Crafts Market features a number of craft stalls and local producers who are passionate about food. Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. 01245 605500
29-Apr The Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain The world renowned all-singing, all-plucking superstars return with their toe-tapping music, hilarious banter, and sheer superlative entertainment. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 30-Apr The Household Cavalry Band A Military Concert on Behalf of SSAFA, the UK’s oldest Tri-Military charity. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 8-Apr Southend At War Hear the stories and experiences of local Southenders, both young and old, throughout the Second World War. Handle original objects, look through local images and have a go at making your own commemorative medal. Central Museum, Victoria Avenue, Southend On Sea, SS2 6EW. www.southendmuseums.co.uk 27-Apr Behind the Scenes: Dress and Textiles This exciting look behind the scenes of Dress and Textiles store will let you into the secrets of how we care for and store our vast collection of dress and textiles. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southend On Sea, SS2 6EW.
14-17 Apr Easter Day Out With Thomas Steam train rides on Thomas and friends, storytelling with the Fat Controller and children’s activities in the Imagination Station all day. East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel Station, Colchester, CO6 2DS. 01206 242524 14-17 Apr Easter Adventure Quest Crack the clues as you explore Audley End House and Gardens. There’s even a chocolate reward! Audley End House & Gardens, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF. 0870 3331181 16-Apr Easter TransportFest See all forms of pre-1985 transport at the Easter TransportFest! Plus, live music, craft stalls, heritage engine exhibits, miniature steam railway, model village and tea room. Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Maldon, CM9 6QA. 07519 276507 ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 16-Apr Antiques & Collectors Fair Established more than 20 years, the fair features indoor and outdoor stalls with dealers from all over the UK. The Brentwood Centre, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9NN. 01702 410171 30-Apr Rayleigh Antiques & Collectors Fair A long established and popular fair with a wide variety of antiques and collectibles on display. The Mill Arts Centre, Bellingham Lane, Rayleigh SS6 7ED.
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BE BEGUILED BY
BURY ST EDMUNDS Written by Abby Knight
One of the most important towns in Europe for its medieval roots, which are still evident today in the many buildings, Bury St Edmunds – once one of the Royal seats of the Saxon kings and home to the famous Greene King brewery - plays a ma jor role in the success of Suffolk’s tourist industry with its host of interesting landmarks and places to visit. It’s also the perfect base to discover the rest of the county, shop, relax and stay. With things to do and see all the year round – including the famous Bury in Bloom festival in May which sees the whole town decked out in spring flowers – you shouldn’t miss the fabulous display in Abbey Gardens which form part of the 11th century Benedictine Abbey and which are open daily during the spring/summer months. Pakenham Water Mill is a pretty 18th century mill which is still turning and still milling flour in the original way and this hidden location was recently revealed by TV chefs The Hairy Bikers who love to use it in their recipes. You can found out more about the history and
heritage of this town by visiting Moyse’s Hall Museum which has been everything from a jail to a school house since it was built in 1180 or be stunned by the beauty of St Edmundsbury Cathedral which has a spectacular Millennium tower. EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY There are plenty of places to stay too – from the luxurious accommodation you’ll find at the Angel Hotel that also has a fine dining restaurant open to non-residents to the imposing Ickworkth Park Hotel with its pool and spa facilities. Or, for a more relaxed feel to your break check in to Lackford Lake Barns or Hilary House, a bed and breakfast close to the pretty village of Swafham Prior. You’ll be spoilt for choice for where to eat – and drink – in Bury St Edmunds: for a real culinary experience make sure you reserve a table at Frederick’s Restaurant – super sophisticated dining in lovely surroundings with views overlooking Italianate gardens. You can drink late at the Flex Bar Lounge and Club that has live music on most evenings or try the Ivory Bar for a cocktail or the decadently decorated Wingspan bar or listen to the cool sounds of jazz at the Hunter Club. A trip to Bury St Edmunds wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the ruins of ancient Bury at Bury St
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Edmunds Abbey, which has pretty gardens to stroll through and you can find out why Greene King’s beer is so popular – world wide – by taking the tour at the Greene King Brewery – a fun experience for all the family. There’s year round music, drama and stand-up comedy to enjoy at the Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds. Originally built in 1819 it’s one of Britain’s finest remaining Regency theatres which has been lovingly restored. Families will love West Stow Country Park which has plenty on offer to explore – whatever the weather! The Farmers Market which was reintroduced only last year is open in the market place every second Sunday and offers a whole range of Suffolk produce – including the famous Bury loaf, cheese, sausages and English puddings. Bury St Edmunds Cathedral
Whether it’s a day trip, weekend or you have more time to spend in this historic and still flourishing town, you’ll not fail to be beguiled by Bury! TOP TIP Look out for the official tour guides of Bury – a group of super knowledgeable locals who can help you discover more about the town. They wear blue and green badges and you can pick up more details at the tourist centre you’ll find in Charter Square. ST EDMUNDSBURY CATHEDRAL TOWER TOURS It stands, said HRH Prince of Wales, as a “spiritual beacon for the new Millennium” and can be seen for miles around. The tower of St Edmundsbury Cathedral is arguably the town’s best known landmark and the new season of tours to the top of it is now underway. And even if you have been a ground floor visitor to this most impressive of buildings, you may want to get a whole new view from on high. Completed in 2005, Prince Charles was patron of the tower project and the brief for the tower was a simple one – for it to be constructed using traditional methods and materials which would last over 1,000 years. At 170ft high, the tower keeps a watchful eye over the town of Bury St Edmunds and is a new addition
to this church, Suffolk’s Cathedral which welcomes around 90,000 visitors a year. The 202 steps to the top are worth the climb to see the world from the highest public accessible point in the town. Knowledgeable, friendly guides are ready to impart fascinating facts as you make your journey to the top of the tower. It’s not a mad rush to the top, it’s done in stages, stopping off to admire the building from ever changing views as you make your way higher. Once you reach the summit, it’s a view to be photographed so don’t forget cameras and phones to mark the fact that you’ve made it to the top! Back at ground level why not refresh yourselves in the cathedral’s Pilgrims’ Kitchen café which offers freshly prepared hot and cold lunches, cakes and Fairtrade refreshments along with free Wi-Fi. Spend some time in the church itself, admire the stunning stained glass and donate £1 to lay a brick on the model of the cathedral being built out of 200,000 LEGO ® bricks. St Edmundsbury Cathedral tower tours run from Wednesday to Sunday and last about 90 minutes and cost £10 per person. Bookings can be made via the cathedral website at www.stedscathedral.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk
117
EUSTON ForestHALL Live at OPEN DAYS Thetford Forest
FLOWER POWER
NR B BRANDON, R ANDON, SUFFOLK TUESDAY 2ND MAY TO SATURDAY 6TH MAY Saturday June 10AM TO 1PM17 1 July
FLOWERS FOR ALL OCCASSIONS
RICK ASTLEY
The Hall is reopening for the first time in 3 years, having undergone an extensive restoration. + SPECIAL GUEST RUMER Please see our website www.eustonhall.co.uk for ticket and tour information, as well as future opening dates. Adults Adults Children 12+ Children Under 12
£12.00 (Gardens and Guided Hall Tour) £ 7.00 (Gardens Only) £ 5.00 Free
10 TH E TRAV ERS E, B U RY S T ED MU N D S , IP33 1B J
Over 60 antiques dealers under
one roof selling a wide range 01284 489499 of antiques, collectables and
www.flowerpowerburvintage ystedmunds.com items.
Visit our Arts & Crafts Beach Huts and The Flying Goose Café.
Sunday 2 July
CLEAN BANDIT + GUESTS
There are five acres of open gardens and fields to enjoy and ample free parking.
DID YOU KNOW?
We are open 6 days a week: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5. 00pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.00am to 4.00pm Closed Tuesdays.
Outside Outside Caterers Caterers
You can get Eastlife Magazine one whole 01728 668844 week early ! www.yoxfordantiques.com
Tickets: 03000 680400 Buy online/info: forestry.gov.uk/music Euston Hall, Euston, Suffolk, IP24 2QW
Find us on the A1120, between Yoxford and Peasenhall (IP17 3JW).
Bring the benefits of a real fire intoThe heart of the home... Outside Caterers your home...
FC_EastlifeAD_168x240_02-17_1MW.indd FC_EastlifeAD_168x240_02-17_1MW.indd 11
21/02/2017 24/02/2017 13:50 09:31
We We can can cater cater for for almost almost any any occasion, occasion, from birthday parties, hen parties, from birthday parties, hen parties, corporate corporate events, events, funerals, funerals, baby baby showers showers and and weddings. weddings. We We can can supply supply aa full full waitress waitress service service and and vintage vintage crockery crockery if if desired. desired.
Hand crafted good looks, controlled cooking and style that epitamises a relaxed, homely lifestyle in town or country. Make your house a home with a traditional
Holidayrange. homes for sale and Touring Park cooking Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary
The ideal from which wood burning stoves and gas fires in East Anglia today. VisitThe our showrooms to see the fantastic ideal base base from which to to
Bring the benefitsSuffolk explore explore the the stunning stunning Suffolk coast and countryside, or of a real fire into Ourcoast Essex showroom: Our Suffolk showroom: and countryside, or just just 42 Halstead Rd Overland Park, relax and put your feet up. Our Essex showroom: Our Suffolk showroom: your home... relax put your up. Earis Colneand Greatfeet Whelnetham,
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42 Halstead Rd Overland Park, Colchester Bury St Edmunds, EarlsEssex Colne Great Whelnetham, Suffolk, IP30 0UL CO6 2NL Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary Colchester Bury01284 St Edmunds, Tel: 388188 Tel: 01787 222608 wood burning stoves and gas fires in East Anglia today. Essex CO6 2NL Suffolk IP30 0UL 01728 831655 Tel. 01787 222608 01728 831655 Tel. 01284 388188 Our Essex showroom: 42 Halstead Rd Earls Colne Colchester Essex CO6 2NL Tel. 01787 222608
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INFO@COLNESTOVES.COM COLNESTOVES.COM
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reception@cakesandale.co.uk A reception@cakesandale.co.uk ND INSTALLATION SERVICE
WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION SERVICE Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary
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51
WHAT’S ON in Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5-7 Apr Gangsta Granny - Live on Stage From the acclaimed producers of Horrible Histories comes the world premiere of this amazing story by David Walliams, the UK’s best-selling author for children. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 6-Apr Treasure Island Join Jim Hawkins on his quest to find the buried treasure and rescue the island princess from the terrible Black Beard & the Caribbean Pirates. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 10-Apr Jurassic Adventures Get transported to a prehistoric place full of fun, thrills and screams, be amazed and awed by the birth of a baby Dinosaur, but beware of the T. REX mother who wants her egg back! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 10-Apr Alice in Wonderland Take a whirlwind trip around Wonderland and let your mind wander on this wonderful voyage of mayhem and madness...The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 11-Apr The Tinderbox Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale of magic, bravery and love told with puppetry, animation and music. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 11-12 Apr Noel & Gertie Based on playwright Noel Coward’s 54-year friendship with Gertrude Lawrence. The love story is told with all ‘the Master’s’ flair and wit. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 12-13 Apr Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 14-Apr Pasha Kovalev: Let’s Dance the Night Away Pasha Kovalev from Strictly Come Dancing and his fantastic dancers are back again touring the UK with their new show. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 14-15 Apr Room on The Broom A magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33
1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 15-Apr Bricks & Mortals Tales, histories and mysteries about the old Norfolk Brickyard that served Holkham Hall in North Norfolk. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 15-Apr Once Upon A Fairy Tale An all singing, dancing, magical show featuring all your favourite princesses and other fairy tale characters. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 17-Apr Easter Panto Join heroes Robin Hood and Maid Marian in this swashbuckling, arrow-slinging, tights-wearing comedy adventure! Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 20-Apr Hip An interactive LGBT theatre show by bi-sexual theatre maker Jolie Booth, producer of the award-winning Backstage in Biscuit Land…The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 20-Apr Just An Ordinary Lawyer Nigerian Tunji Sowande quietly breaks through multiple barriers to become Britain’s first black judge in 1978. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 20-Apr The Lady Boys of Bangkok With more songs and big-scale musical production numbers than you could pout a painted lip at, the Lady Boys pay tribute to a host of stars. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 21-Apr See How They Run In an English village where the inhabitants are preparing themselves for a Nazi invasion, local spinster, Miss Skillon, becomes convinced that the actress wife of her beloved vicar is having an affair. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
24-Apr The Australian Ballet - Coppelia Sorcery and masquerade, romance and high jinks – this is the funniest, sunniest ballet you’ll see all year. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 24-Apr Omid Djalili Intelligent, sometimes provocative, and always entertaining, his stand-up is a hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 26-Apr Julius Caesar Caesar returns from war, allconquering, but mutiny is rumbling through the corridors of power. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 26-Apr Puccini - La Boheme One of the most romantic operas ever written, it tells the tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 26-27 Apr As You Like It An audience favourite since its first performance in 1603, ‘As You Like It’ is among Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 26-29 Apr David Walliams’ First Hippo On The Moon From bestselling Children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon first? Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 27-29 Apr The Effect Funny, fierce and hugely entertaining, Lucy Prebble’s extraordinary play will entertain and provoke in equal measure. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk
22-Apr Jon Richardson - Old Man Best known as team captain on ‘8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown’, Jon returns to the road with his hotly anticipated new stand up tour. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 53320. www.marinatheatre.co.uk
28-29 Apr Bury Fair In this affectionate satire of his home town, Thomas Shadwell throws a pair of London sparks and a French pretender into the world of Bury St Edmunds. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org
22-Apr Tangomotion Featuring four world class tango dancers and live music from the acclaimed tango quartet, Tango Siempre is the UK’s leading tango ensemble.Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org
29-Apr Count Arthur Strong Using stories and other things that are secret, Count Arthur Strong, showbiz legend, pays tribute to one of the best musicals he can remember. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO
eastlife.co.uk
121
EUSTON ForestHALL Live at OPEN DAYS Thetford Forest
FLOWER POWER
NR BRANDON, SUFFOLK TUESDAY 2ND MAY TO SATURDAY 6TH MAY Saturday 10AM TO 1PM17 June
FLOWERS FOR ALL OCCASSIONS
RICK ASTLEY
The Hall is reopening for the first time in 3 years, having undergone an extensive restoration. + SPECIAL GUEST RUMER Please see our website www.eustonhall.co.uk for ticket and tour information, as well as future opening dates. Adults Adults Children 12+ Children Under 12
£12.00 (Gardens and Guided Hall Tour) £ 7.00 (Gardens Only) £ 5.00 Free
10 TH E TRAV ERS E, B U RY S T ED MU N D S , IP33 1B J
Over 60 antiques dealers under
one roof selling a wide range 01284 489499 of antiques, collectables and
www.flowerpowerburvintage ystedmunds.com items.
Visit our Arts & Crafts Beach Huts and The Flying Goose Café.
Sunday 2 July
CLEAN BANDIT + GUESTS
There are five acres of open gardens and fields to enjoy and ample free parking.
DID YOU KNOW?
We are open 6 days a week: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5. 00pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.00am to 4.00pm Closed Tuesdays.
Outside Outside Caterers Caterers
You can get Eastlife Magazine one whole 01728 668844 week early ! www.yoxfordantiques.com
Tickets: 03000 680400 Buy online/info: forestry.gov.uk/music
Find us on the A1120, between Yoxford and Peasenhall (IP17 3JW).
Bring the benefits of a real fire intoThe heart of the home... Outside Caterers your home... Euston Hall, Euston, Suffolk, IP24 2QW
FC_EastlifeAD_168x240_02-17_1MW.indd 1
21/02/2017 13:50
We We can can cater cater for for almost almost any any occasion, occasion, from birthday parties, hen parties, from birthday parties, hen parties, corporate corporate events, events, funerals, funerals, baby baby showers showers and and weddings. weddings. We We can can supply supply aa full full waitress waitress service service and and vintage vintage crockery crockery if if desired. desired.
Hand crafted good looks, controlled cooking and style that epitamises a relaxed, homely lifestyle in town or country. Make your house a home with a traditional
Holidayrange. homes for sale and Touring Park cooking Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary
The ideal from which wood burning stoves and gas fires in East Anglia today. VisitThe our showrooms to see the fantastic ideal base base from which to to
Bring the benefitsSuffolk explore explore the the stunning stunning Suffolk coast and countryside, or of a real fire into Ourcoast Essex showroom: Our Suffolk showroom: and countryside, or just just 42 Halstead Rd Overland Park, relax and put your feet up. Our Essex showroom: Our Suffolk showroom: your home... relax put your up. Earis Colneand Greatfeet Whelnetham,
Bring the benefits of a real fire into your home...
electric range cookers by Everhot and Esse.
Hadleigh, Hadleigh, Suffolk Suffolk
Tel: 01473 806398 Mobile: 07900 900329
Tel: 806398 Mobile: 07900 900329 We01473 can cater for almost any occasion, I N Finfo@angel-delights.com O @ C O L N E S T O V E .COM info@angel-delights.com Swww.angel-delights.com www.angel-delights.com from birthday parties, hen parties, corporate C Oevents, L N E S Tfunerals, OVES.C OM baby showers and weddings.
We can supply a full waitress service and vintage crockery if desired.
42 Halstead Rd Overland Park, Colchester Bury St Edmunds, EarlsEssex Colne Great Whelnetham, Suffolk, IP30 0UL CO6 2NL Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary Colchester Bury01284 St Edmunds, Tel: 388188 Tel: 01787 222608 wood burning stoves and gas fires in East Anglia today. Essex CO6 2NL Suffolk IP30 0UL 01728 831655 Tel. 01787 222608 01728 831655 Tel. 01284 388188 Our Essex showroom: 42 Halstead Rd Earls Colne Colchester Essex CO6 2NL Tel. 01787 222608
www.cakesandale.co.uk www.cakesandale.co.uk INFO@COLNESTOVES.COM
INFO@COLNESTOVES.COM COLNESTOVES.COM
WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD
Our Suffolk showroom: Overland Park, Great Whelnetham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 0UL Tel. 01284 388188
COLNESTOVES.COM
reception@cakesandale.co.uk reception@cakesandale.co.uk AND INSTALLATION SERVICE
WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION SERVICE Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary
wood burning stoves and gas fires in East Anglia today.
the best of Suffolk
51
30-Apr Because We Can Can Can Enjoy drama, dance & song from box office smashes including Star Wars, Moulin Rouge, Sister Act, Frozen, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Hairspray. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk
www.theatreroyal.org
MUSIC 8-Apr Once Upon A Musical A fantastic night of Musical Entertainment – featuring songs from all of the classics direct from the West End. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
23-Apr Shanty Choir The Rogues Shanty Chorus is a collective that celebrates the heritage, culture and legacy of Lowestoft’s bygone seafaring communities. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
22-Apr JK as Robbie Williams A special Charity tribute night in aid of 2 great causes, Meningitis Now and Macmillan Cancer Support. Greshams, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ. 01473 250816. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO
10-Apr Billy Ocean Billy has sold over 30 million records in his lifetime and has collected a pile of Gold and Platinum records across the world. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO
26-Apr Stacey Kent Internationally acclaimed and Grammy-nominated vocalist, Stacey Kent, returns to The Apex, featuring music from her latest album, ‘Tenderly’. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk
12-Apr At Last - The Etta James Story Starring the sensational Vika Bull, this smash-hit narrative concert tells the story of soul legend Etta James. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk
27-Apr Guitar Project Expect a dazzling display of contemporary fare, ranging from Turkish panache to soundscapes of latin America to English pastoralism. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org
14-Apr Xim, Folk Music Extraordinaire Traditional’ dance tunes are played on bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, melodeon, flute and fretless bass, combining Central French forms with modern elements of the global melting pot. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org
28-Apr Gospel Choir & Zulu Warrior Dance The Happy Day Gospel Choir makes joyful, upbeat music, from traditional gospel to their own ‘gospelised’ versions of funk, Latin, reggae and disco numbers. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org
14-16 Apr Easter Weekend Bach’s great St John Passion is given a dramatic chamber performance by Solomon’s Knot, the Marmen Quartet play meditative works by Bach, Beethoven and Philip Glass, while the cobwebs of winter are well and truly blown away by the power of the Britten– Pears Orchestra. Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, Suffolk, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 15-Apr Camilo Menjura & Diego Laverde Rojas An inspiring and varied performance featuring the Colombian Harp, Guitar, Vocals and other South American instruments bringing to life the beautiful melodies and rhythms of Latin America with these two gifted musicians. St John’s Church, St John’s Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1SN. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 19-Apr Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment The world-renowned Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE) is coming to Lowestoft as part of its national Musical Landscapes tour. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Apr - 25 Jun Let’s Face It Themed exhibition of photographs taken by Beyond the Image Gallery members. Beyond The Image, 13 Red House Yard, Eye, IP23 8HH. 07944 505419 www.beyondtheimage.co.uk 4 Apr - 15 May À la recherché du punks perdu An exhibition of photographs by Chris Stein and Eddie Duggan with printed ephemera from the collection of Professor Teal Triggs. University of Suffolk, Ipswich, IP4 1QJ. 01473 338000 www.uos.ac.uk 8 Apr - 4 Jun Open Season 2017 Discover the talents of local artists at our 2017 Open Season exhibition. Ipswich Art School, 1 Upper High Street, Ipswich, IP1 3NE. www.ipswich.gov.uk 8-17 Apr Barry Freeman: A Retrospective Exhibition Barry has been involved in photography since the 1950’s and his passion is the earth and skies of East Anglia. Wingfield Barns, Church Road, Wingfield, IP21 5RA. 01379 384505. www.wingfieldbarns.com
21-Apr Set Adrift A singer-songwriter duo comprised of two of UK’s best percussive fingerstyle guitar-singers. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
14-17 Apr Art 4 Easter Four diverse artists are holding an exhibition for the four days of Easter in the lovely ancient little town of Clare. The Stour Studio, Country Park Centre, Clare, CO10 8NW. 01440 786810 www.sue-eaton.com
21-Apr Big Girls Don’t Cry Celebrating the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Reviving the sublime harmonies of New Jersey’s finest, Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505
23-Apr The 1st Marquess’ life in books: at home Come and see some of the books in the Ickworth library that were read by the 1st Marquess. Ickworth House, Park and Gardens, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.
IP29 5QE. 01284 735270. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth SPECIAL EVENTS 1-17 Apr Easter Fun at Ickworth Enjoy a variety of Easter children’s craft activities and games including the Cadbury Easter egg hunt! Ickworth House, Park and Gardens, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth 8-9 Apr 95th Rifles Battle of Waterloo Huzzah, the battle comes to Ickworth. 95th Rifles & many other regiments battle it out with Napoleon. Ickworth House, Park and Gardens, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth 8-9 Apr The Framlingham Festival of Dogs The Dog Event that is All About Dogs! 3 rings, interaction and many fun games. Framlingham College, College Road, Suffolk, IP13 9EY 01728 685302. www.framlinghamcountryshow.co.uk 14-17 Apr Eastertide Celebrate Easter Tudor-style at Kentwell Hall this April. Fun for all the family! Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, Sudbury, CO10 9BA. 01394 380643 www.kentwell.co.uk 15-Apr Living History - Easter It’s Easter and the family and servants at Ickworth House are busy celebrating this special time of year. Ickworth House, Park and Gardens, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth 18-20 Apr The bet365 Craven Meeting The first meeting of the year on the Rowley Mile Racecourse. Newmarket Racecourses, Westfield House, Newmarket, CB8 0TG. 0344 579 3010. newmarket. thejockeyclub.co.uk 22-Apr Orford Ness National Nature Reserve - Photography Tour 2017 A rare expedition to spend a whole day on Orford Ness including working up close to the famous Pagodas in the Cold War AWRE area. Orford Ness National Nature Reserve, Quay Office, Orford Quay, Woodbridge, IP12 2NU. 01394 450900. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events 25-Apr BBC Radio 4: Gardener’s Question Time The celebrated panel of gardening experts will be tackling the questions put to them by local gardening enthusiasts. Snape Maltings, Snape Suffolk, IP17 1SP aldeburgh.co.uk 29 Apr - 1 May Tudor May Day Celebrations Join in traditional May Day celebrations - music, dancing, plays and processions with over 100 of costumed. Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, Sudbury, CO10 9BA 01394 380643. www.kentwell.co.uk ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 2-Apr The Famous Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers from Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and beyond will be selling a wide range of fascinating items. The Cameo Hotel, Old Ipswich Road, Copdock, IP8 3JD. 16-17 Apr Clare Antiques Fair A great collection of over 30 antique and vintage dealers from all over the region. Clare Town Hall, Market Hill, Clare
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ROOAAR TO US! #dinosauradventure
Lenwade, Norfolk
Open daily
from 9.30am NR9 5JE 01603 876310 www.dinosauradventure.co.uk Eastlife April 17 DA ad.indd 1
20/03/2017 09:34
NORFOLK
SECRET NORFOLK
Written by Nicole Ranaweera
Life in a Fine County
Norfolk born and bred, I love this county; its quirks, eccentricities and hidden gems, but as a vegetarian it can sometimes be difficult to know which restaurant offers more than just a lasagne and risotto! With that in mind I’ve put together my top 5 eateries, from restaurants to cafes, for a great, meat-free bite to eat… 1. SHUCK’S AT THE YURT, THORNHAM Shucks, Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Thornham, PE36 6LS | T: 01485 525889 Shuck’s is a casual, family-friendly restaurant that caters for vegetarians, vegans and meat eaters alike. Award-winning chef, Philip Milner produces innovative vegetarian and vegan dishes that really are a feast for the eyes, stomach and soul alike! Plus, the restaurant is housed in a yurt within walking distance of the sea. Is there really any more you could ask for? www.shucksattheyurt.co.uk 2.RIVER GREEN, TROWSE River Green Café, Trowse, Norfolk, NR14 8AH T: 01603 466466 Located just a short distance from the Norwich city centre, River Green Cafe is renowned for good food that uses local ingredients where possible and caters for vegetarians, vegans and those who are gluten free. Serving a range of cuisines, you can drop in for a light bite, or a 3 course meal. www.rivergreencafe.co.uk
3. NAMASTE, NORWICH Namaste Village, Queens Road, Norwich, NR1 3PN T: 01603 466466 Namaste is, in my mind, the best Indian restaurant in Norfolk. Not only are all dishes vegetarian friendly, there is a great selection. Having recently had the seal of approval from my Sri Lankan mother-in-law who cooks amazing curries herself, I know I can legitimately recommend it to all serious curry fans that are looking for the real deal. www.namasteindiannorwich.com 4. WILD THYME, NORWICH Wild Thyme, Labour In Vain Yard, Norwich, NR2 1JD T: 01603 765562 A vegetarian and vegan café in the heart of the city centre, Wild Thyme is located just above Rainbow Wholefoods. Most dishes can be modified to vegan or gluten-free, so this is a great place for lunch or just a cup of tea and cake! www.wildthymenorwich.co.uk 5. BIA KITCHEN, NORWICH Bia Kitchen, Norwich Market, NR2 1ND If you’re looking for a quick lunch on the go, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Bia Kitchen, located in Norwich Market. Offering contemporary street food, this vegan cuisine is truly delicious and won’t break the bank! www.biakitchen.co.uk
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Welcome to the home of Bressingham Steam & Gardens, generations of fun for everyone since 1961. Take a trip on one of the four railways at Bressingham, the collection of working locomotives will take you round our magnificent gardens and woodland, or ride on the steam Gallopers. A trip to the locomotive sheds brings the power and the glory of mighty steam engineering up close. The National Dad's Army collection lets you wander through Walmington-on-Sea looking at original props and vehicles from the series, you'd be a stupid boy to miss it! Whether your passion is Gardens, Steam, Exhibits, Rides or even a mixture of them all, we are confident that Bressingham has something for all.
PEPPA PIG VISITS Sun 16 April 2016 to Mon 17 April 2016 Peppa Pig will be making personal appearances at intervals on each day, included in the standard unlimited train rides price. We will have a Children’s Entertainer onsite and Zoo-Tastic with their small petting zoo.
DAD'S ARMY Bressingham has been the official home to the Dads Army Appreciation Society's collection since 2000. The exhibition comprises a recreation of Walmington-on-Sea the fictional home to Captain Mainwaring and his men.
STEAM
ADVERTORIAL
Bressingham Steam & Gardens
What better way to explore the beautiful gardens and woodlands of Bressingham than by climbing aboard a magnificent steam engine! With more than four miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four journeys to choose from, it's the perfect way to relax and enjoy the scenery! The 2 1/2 mile (4km) long track of the Nursery Railway (2ft gauge) leaves from the museum building and passes the locomotive sheds and the lake before crossing over the Waveney Valley Line, where passengers get their first sight of the 15-inch (0.38m) gauge engines waiting to begin their journey from Lakeside station. Turning eastwards, flanked by woods and dykes, the line travels through an area of birch and oak trees, before once again crossing over the 15-inch-gauge line. When both railways are operating, passengers will often see the larger-gauge locomotive giving way to the Nursery Line. There are views of Roydon Church and the wilder expanse of Wortham Ling to the south. On the return leg, visitors get an excellent view of the old Nurseries returning back to Nature. The locomotives running on this line include George Sholto and Gwynedd. The Garden Railway operates from the Dell Garden and the coach park. Its track, which runs alongside the perimeter of the Gardens, has been lengthened to 1,350 yards (1,234m) and now has a gauge of 10 1/4 inches (0.26m). Designed and built by Bressingham's own engineering team, the line's new locomotive was named Alan Bloom and pulls up to sixty people in three carriages. With modifications to suit the Garden Railway, the locomotive was modelled on the Hunslet Engine Company's Quarry design. Trains on the Waveney Valley Railway (15" gauge) leave the Lakeside station travelling east, stopping to allow trains on the Nursery Line to pass before turning south over the Bressingham Drain and running out over low-lying water meadows. Turning west along the infant River Waveney and the Norfolk-Suffolk county boundary, the line runs through banks of mature rhododendrons to turn north and recrosses Bressingham Drain. Here the Waveney Valley Line runs alongside the standard-gauge track. The locomotive running on this line currently is St Christopher.
The Teapot CafĂŠ T YT IS SLHT S TH STO L I S H S TSTYLISH OSS V ELYS ISTOVES S Y LOIVSSEH T OSVTEOSV E S All homemade food made on the premises SPIRE YOUR HOME P I R E YTTOO OUI N TIRN OS HIPO N IM S RP EI R Y E OU YR OU HRO M HO E M01760 E 722301 INSPIRE YOUR HOME Find Us on Facebook
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The
Judith Fox
Ballet School
Open from the end of February to Christmas, join us for:
The emphasis being on enjoyment, but with a serious side for those who would like to go on to vocational school and a possible career in the dance world. Students have been accepted in top schools and gone on to a professional career.
Steam Train Rides (summer only) Steam and Diesel Galas Family Fun Days
Beer Festival
Halloween Train
Diesel Train Rides
Fish and Chips Specials
On-train Cream Teas and High Teas
Classes take place throughout the week, with the youngest on Saturday mornings when full of beans.
Jazz and Folk Trains 1940s Weekend
Santa Specials
You can also book Dereham Station and a complete train for your Wedding Reception Discounts available for on-train birthday and anniversary parties, family and group outings
Adult classes (good excercise) in ballet, tap, street. The Foxes, Tuttles Lane East, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0EW
Tel: 01953 607235 Judith Fox 1/4.indd 1
Mid-Norfolk Railway The Dereham to Wymondham Abbey Line
The Judith Fox Ballet School likes to introduce a love of ballet to as many children as possible.
15/2/12 10:15:11
For more details and to book, please email marketing@mnr.org.uk or telephone 07585 855350 / 01362 667814
A GUIDE TO WYMONDHAM Written by Laurie Cleland-Harris
There was an old lady of Wymondham, who caught peoples’ pet pussies and Skymondham. Pronunciation lesson over, this historical market town is certainly popular with commuters and visitors boasting a 900 year-old Abbey and working historical railway line. I was delighted to see Michael Portillo stopping for coffee at the Station Bistro during his Railway Journeys TV series. The quirky bistro has been fitted out with vintage carriage seats together with armrests and ashtrays. A knight in shining armour stands guard outside. The railway and catering theme carries on at Wymondham Abbey Station where the restored Mid Norfolk Railway hosts various on-board music and dining events on trains returning to Dereham. Near the Abbey station is the Hen House and Egg Shed farm shop, gift shop and café where 16,000 free range hens scratch a living. It’s another quirky place to visit, and there is a small caravan facility within the grounds. Dog-friendly too. The Abbey itself towers above the town and can be seen from miles around. It is quite breath-taking and is well worth a visit inside. Perhaps the best way to appreciate the Abbey outside of worship is to attend a concert as part of the Wymondham Music Festival. Now in its 22nd year, it runs for two weeks from 1-16 July. It caters for most musical tastes from blues to classical. The town centre has ample parking, and there are plenty of independent shops and antique emporiums
to wander around. Sitting like a dovecot on stilts. The Market Cross houses the Tourist Information Centre. Real doves however, live in the rafters of the town centre car park entrance, which was once the old fire station. There is a local museum which was Wymondham’s prison, house of woman’s’ correction, police station and court. On the way, take time to pop into the 15th century Green Dragon pub. Wymondham is the home of Norfolk Police HQ, and also of Lotus Cars. Whilst you need a special invitation to see the inside of a police station, you can visit the Lotus factory and Heritage Tour by booking online. Don’t press the book a test drive icon by mistake! Vroom….
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Why we love SWAFFHAM Written by Laurie Cleland-Harris
Swaffham, according to Stephen Fry is “a perfect market town, perfectly placed in the heart of Norfolk.” This famous resident and local champion helped promote its charm when he played TV lawyer Peter Kingdom. Fans of the show will instantly recognise his office and other locations as they park for free in the market square, flanked by historical buildings and Georgian townhouses. A true market town, there is everything for everyone, which happens to be how the stunning vintage shop Ciclic is described. It’s a double fronted emporium, currently displaying a full sized metal sculpture of a sabre-toothed beast. When I popped my head into the Kings Arms and Copper Horse, I was not disappointed to see guinea fowl and local venison on the menu. Even on a rainy Sunday afternoon it was busy, so I guess it’s best to book. The rain didn’t put me off walking around the town centre, taking time to admire the historical buildings. Catching my eye was the Ceres Bookshop and Tearoom, reminding me of my visits to the coffee houses of Prague. And, talking of coffee, I was drawn into the stunning Market Cross Café Bar. Once a tobacconist shop and cottage, it has a wood burner, customers with dogs, easy jazz and country magazines to read. Swaffham has everything. It has a sense of decent community with an abundance of posters advertising local events. The well written Swaffham Magazine has pages of societies, clubs and meetings that cater for all ages and tastes. Not too far away is the historical village of Castle Acre and the English Heritage site of Castle Acre
Priory. The inviting 400 year-old Ostrich Inn: said to be a favourite of Cromwell’s grandmother, sits in the heart of the village. An interesting evening may be had at the idyllic Westacre Theatre, which provides supper and a performance for around £20. It hosts live and screened events. It looks like a fantastic summer evening venue. Meanwhile, back in Swaffham, that omni-visible wind turbine belonging to the Green Britain Centre is the only turbine in the world that the public can climb to burn off the calories after that inevitable cake overload.
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WHAT’S ON in Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 4-8 Apr Casanova Throw caution to the wind. Be led into temptation. Unmask Casanova with Northern Ballet. This spine-tingling spectacle of 18th century decadence will flood your senses and take your breath away. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk
5-6 Apr Fascinating Aida’s Dillie Keane Dillie Keane takes a short break from her Fascinating Aïda gal pals to present her first solo show in 558 years. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk
15-Apr Intellectual Hooligans - Comedy Improv Norwich’s premium Improv comedy troupe. The show will consist of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” style games based entirely on audience suggestions. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk
5-7 Apr Gaslight In this Victorian Thriller by Patrick Hamilton, Jack Manningham is slowly, deliberately driving his wife, Bella, insane. Her only tether to reality is a gaslight mounted on her wall, which fades up and down suspiciously. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 6-8 Apr Antigone A young Antigone fights for what she believes to be right, whatever the consequences, naive to the line of catastrophic events that will follow. A modern version of the classic tragedy about power, strength, love and belief. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 7-8 Apr Pantaloons: Pride and Predujice It is a truth universally acknowledged that this witty and romantic masterpiece is one of the best-loved stories of all time. A beautifully hilarious and delightfully innovative new adaptation. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 8-15 Apr Oliver! Join young, orphaned Oliver Twist as he navigates the London’s underworld of theft and violence, searching for a home, a family, and – most importantly – for love. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 8-Apr That 80’s Show It’s the 1980s and Patrick Monahan’s Irish Iranian family arrives in Teesside escaping from the Iran war. Patrick’s memories and reminiscences of being an immigrant make for a unique stand-up show! The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wellsnext-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk 11-Apr Dr Phil Hammond NHS doctor, BBC broadcaster, Private Eye journalist and whistle blowing comic. Laugh, sort your life out, stay sane, plan your death and save the NHS – all in only 99 minutes. Norwich Arts Centre,
14-15 Apr Babes In The Woods A fun-packed inclusive family pantomime – with a few twists and turns along the way! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
16-17 Apr Babe The Sheep Pig An enchanting family favourite, as the classic novel which inspired the Oscar-winning film, is bought to life by a cast of West End performers. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 18-19 Apr Sara Pascoe: Animal As always Sara is honest and unflinching as she expounds on sexuality, empathy, art, God and pubic hair. If that sounds a bit weighty, there will also be stuff about selfies, glow worms and RuPaul’s Drag Race. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 18-22 Apr The Woman in Black Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story comes dramatically alive in Stephen Mallatratt’s ingenious stage adaptation. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 20-Apr Polly Toynbee Polly and fellow author David Walker discuss the slow but steady dis-memberment of the Welfare State as the cuts continue to bite, together with other pressing problems such as Brexit and Trump. Norwich Arts Centre, St.Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 21-22 Apr Zombie: A Musical Combining scientists, the undead, corporate greed and a good old sing-song, this highly infectious, acerbic comedy musical promises laughter, absurdity and just a little bit of gore for good measure. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 21-29 Apr Hayfever The Bliss family are everything a well-todo family of the 1920s shouldn’t be. When they each invite a guest to their summer retreat, but neglect to tell each other, a comedy of misjudged meetings and all round bad manners ensues! Maddermar-
ket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 22-Apr Wind in the Willows Following the iconic classic tale as Mr Toad battles against the wickedest of Weasels protecting his beloved Toad Hall. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 23-Apr Omid Djalili Intelligent, sometimes provocative and always entertaining, Omid’s stand-up is a hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 23-Apr Pasha Kovalev Strictly Come Dancing’s Pasha Kovalev invites you to join him as he leads you in dance through his incredible journey from snowy Siberian beginnings to the sparkle of the Strictly Ballroom. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 25-29 Apr Running Wild Michael Morpurgo’s novel, based on a true story, is brought to lush life with extraordinary heart, vibrant colour and exceptional creativity, wowing audiences of all ages and critics alike. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 27-Apr Sh!t Theatre: Letters to Windsor House The multi award-winning duo follow up their smash-hit show Women’s Hour with their Fringe First award-winning and Total Theatre award-nominated Letters to Windsor House. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 28-Apr Burton Burton vividly presents the life of the great Welsh actor in his own words from humble beginnings to Hollywood mega-stardom. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 28-Apr Andy Parsons: Peak Bulls**t Put on your lucky pants and your party shoes – and get yourself on a night out. Or maybe come out dressed in a binbag, top hat and clogs. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk MUSIC 7-Apr Sheelanagig A quintet with a well-stocked armoury of stringed instruments – guitar, fiddle, double bass – and a bagful of joint-jumping tunes, these boys sure know how to
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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from
10.00am
The place to visit Group bookings call: 01493 369477 or email: mail@thrigbyhall.co.uk
THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH
N R29 3DR 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk
☎
TEL: 01760 788 015 EMAIL: isobel_matthews@yahoo.co.uk ADDRESS: 2 Market Place, Swaffham, PE37 7AB OPENING TIMES:
Mon - Sat - 8am - 4pm
Online orders for lunches and produce taken, please email: isobel_matthews@yahoo.co.uk
THE QUEENS CHEESE HAS ARRIVED Norfolk is a royal county, so we are stocking cheese fit for the queen. Our selection includes: Montgomery Cheddar Colston Bassett Stilton PDO
Comté Aged Gouda
Mimolette Rosary Goats Cheese
These cheeses are all sourced from Paxton & Whitfield who are Cheesemongers By Appointment to HM Queen Elizabeth II.
We also stock British Charcuterie championed by Cannon and Cannon, a Norfolk born supplier We welcome you to come and try our delicious selection of meats and other delectable hot sandwiches and rolls. Vegan and gluten free soups and salads will also be on the menu daily. We look forward to meeting you over an amazing Monmouth Coffee Company coffee.
get a party started. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 8-Apr Gentleman’s Dub Club With their lively combination of Dub, Reggae, Ska & Two Tone this is set to be a scorcher. Expect to hear classics as well as new tracks off of their up and coming album ‘Dubtopia’! OPEN, 20 Bank Plain, Norwich, NR2 4SF. 01603 763111. opennorwich.org.uk 12-Apr Stormzy + Special Guests Set to be one of the most highly-anticipated tours of 2017, grime sensation Stormzy really is taking the UK by Storm! The LCR, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 508050 www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk 14-Apr Tibetan Night Terrors ‘Tibetan Night Terrors’ is the sound of moreishly tropical disco grooves from Ben, Caitlin, Matthew, Owen and Marco. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 15-Apr Starman - The David Bowie Story Not only the ultimate tribute to a legend but also a highly entertaining, emotional and thought-provoking musical celebration that you will want to see again and again. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 21-Apr Iconic The creative force behind the hugely successful Vampires Rock, Steve Steinman’s all new hit show delivers the best of the best sound tracks from some of the coolest and Iconic movies of all time. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 22-Apr Pure Floyd Unquestionably the best Pink Floyd tribute band in Norfolk, and challenges to be the best nationwide. The Brickmakers, 496 Sprowston Road, Norwich, NR3 4DY. 01603 508050. www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk 22-Apr Nubiyan Twist Drawing on their backgrounds in jazz, reggae and soul, with a fusion of afro-beat and latin rythms, they create a modern sound that embraces live electronics alongside traditional instrumentation and jazz inspired improvisation. OPEN, 20 Bank Plain, Norwich, NR2 4SF. 01603 763111. opennorwich.org.uk 23-Apr Michael English An accomplished musician & songwriter, the good looking Kildare man is now a big name on the circuit with his energetic performances which leave the crowds wanting more. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 24-25 Apr The Buddy Holly Story Featuring two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, including That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Rave On, La Bamba, Chantilly Lace, Johnny B. Goode, Raining In My Heart, Everyday, Shout and many many more. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 26-Apr The Lounge Kittens Their debut album ‘Sequins & C-Bombs’
features a whopping 15 of their humorous, entertaining and technically challenging covers and stormed into the UK charts on its release last September. The Waterfront, 139-141 King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QH. 01603 508050. www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk
Hungary for this talented, emerging young artist. Sensuous, surreal, even shocking; such are some of the words which have been used to describe the work of Máté Orr. Fairhurst Gallery, Bedford Street, Norwich, NR2 1AR. 01603 614214. gallery.fairhurstgallery.co.uk
27-Apr Creeds Cross: The Celtic Journey The show will immerse you in an evening of all that is magical and invigorating about the Celtic tradition of music and dance, featuring huge traditional tunes, arranged and performed like you’ve never heard before. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
25-30 Apr Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios Central Taster Exhibition This annual exhibition gives you the chance to get a taste of what’s in store during this year’s Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
27-Apr Josh Doyle British-born Nashville transplant Josh Doyle is rumoured to be the “next big thing”, sharing the stage with acts such as Robbie Williams & Bon Jovi. The Waterfront, 139-141 King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QH. 01603 508050 www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS 3-17 Apr Russells International Circus Roll up roll up, as Russells bring an all star cast of circus performers to Sheringham! See amazing daredevils from Romania, and Brazil, breathtaking circus skills, hilarious clowns and more! Cookies Car Boot Site, Cromer Road, Sheringham, NR26 8SQ. 07752218805 www.russellscircus.co.uk
28-Apr The Prettiest Starman Singing along at ‘The Prettiest Starman’ is unavoidable and actively encouraged. The songs are the stars of this show, not the individuals on stage. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 . norwichartscentre.co.uk
11-16 Apr Chinese State Circus 30 world-class Chinese acrobats, aerial artistes, and jugglers interact with the super-human physical skills and dexterity of the masters of martial arts - the legendary Shaolin Warriors.Royal Norfolk Showground, Norwich, NR5 0TT chinesestatecircus.com
29-Apr Stone Foundation Produced by and featuring Paul Weller, their new album realise their vision of a vibrant modern UK soul band, the kind who can play with the best of the genre’s American legends. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk
14-15 Apr Global Village Spring Market Local traders, artisan makers and illustrators will be selling beautiful products, from India to Scandinavia, the Balkans to Nepal, Uganda to Poland and much more! The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
29-Apr Albany Down A contemporary rock band with influences ranging from classic acts like Led Zeppelin and Thunder to modern bands such as The Black Keys and Clutch. OPEN, 20 Bank Plain, Norwich, NR2 4SF. 01603 763111opennorwich.org.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 5-9 Apr The Spring Art Show The Spring Art show is an exhibitions of fine art demonstrating a huge diversity in subject, style and medium. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 5-30 Apr Exhibitions in the Loft This local group of artists including Heather Webster and Nigel Patterson will be exhibiting work including paintings, glass and textile pieces. Blickling Estate, Blickling, Norfolk, NR11 6NF. 01263 738021 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events 8 Apr - 20 Aug Paul Nash Spanning a lifetime’s work from his earliest drawings to his iconic war time paintings, the exhibition will explore Nash’s central role in the development of modern British art. SCVA, UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk 12 Apr - 3 May John Scarratt: 13 Futures From points-based relationships to the digital afterlife, the show continues to offer up predictions of where technology is headed, and what the consequences might be. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 25 Apr - 10 Jun Máté Orr This is the first solo exhibition outside
26-Apr Geology Walk Discover Norfolk’s Ice Age Coast with geologist Martin Warren and hear the stories of past worlds, including the site of the famous Palaeolithic Happisburgh handaxe and the world’s oldest human foot. Beach Road car park, Happisburgh, Norfolk, NR12 0PP. 01263 513992 www.northfolk.org.uk ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 8-Apr The City Antiques Fair & Fleamarket Antiques, paintings, collectables, retro and vintage items sold by 60+ dealers. Open from 9am until 4.30pm. St Andrews Hall, St Andrews Street, Norwich, NR2 4AD. 01603 436129 15-Apr Norwich Vinyl Record Fair Visitors will be treated to genres of music from Prog Rock, Punk Rock, Hard Rock and Hip Hop and more. In addition to Vinyl, CDs, books and memorabilia will be on sale. St Andrews Hall, St Andrews Street, Norwich, NR2 4AD. 01603 436129 15-28 Apr Blakeney Book Fair Second-hand and Antiquarian Books for the collector, dealer or casual reader. Plus old postcards, prints and maps. Open 10am to 5pm. Blakeney Church Rooms, The Quay, Blakeney, NR25 7AL. 01263 741690 www.davidfordbooks.co.uk 16-Apr Norfolk Showground Antiques & Collectors Fair Over 400 inside and outside stands spread over the Norfolk Showground. Excellent parking and good onsite catering. Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Costessey, NR5 0TT norfolkshowground.rnaa.org.uk
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BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS
Bright times in BEDFORD Written by Abby Knight
Bedford, situated at the ford of the River Great Ouse is a picturesque market town with plenty of history to explore and – interestingly – a large population of Italian descent! John Bunyan, the author of one of Britain’s finest pieces of literature The Pilgrim’s Progress, was held prisoner for 12 years in the town’s jail - you can discover more about his life at the John Bunyan Museum. Henry I built Bedford Castle, which you can still visit today. The Cardington Airship Hangars that were originally part of the RAF base opened in 1919. It was built to house giant airships. It is now regularly used as a back drop for movies, including blockbusters such as The Dark Knight Rises and Inception. Looking for somewhere special to eat? You’ll enjoy the fine dining at St Helena; a country manor house, and if you just want to enjoy a leisurely drink, visit the Auctioneer Room; an impressive set of bars situated in the town’s old auction rooms. Nature lovers will enjoy the views at the Stotfold Watermill and Nature Reserve located in pretty gardens, the grade II listed mill is still working and there’s a café for a welcome break. Or if you want to see birds enjoying the natural habitat, take a trip to RSPB Sandy – The Lodge, situated on the banks of the river you can see a whole range of inland and river birds. There are plenty of famous people associated with Bedford: Harold Abrahams, the 1924 Olympic runner whose life story was featured in award-winning Chariots of Fire and another famous runner Paula Radcliffe also has links to the town. Music lovers might well be interested in the Glen Miller Museum – situated on the old airfield it was the last place the famous band leader was seen alive in 1944. Bedford really is a jewel in the crown of East England! WHAT’S ON? BedPop Record Shop is back at The Lane, 22 April Now in its third year, the BedPop Record Shop takes
up its annual residency at the Lane (on Castle Lane). Featuring a wide range of vinyl sellers, the BPRS team guarantee an eclectic mix of genres, so there’s something for everyone. Bedpop.co.uk Made in Bedford Artisan Fair, 15 April The first Bedford Artisan Fair will take place at the Bedford Corn Exchange on 15 April from 10am-4pm. It will feature the work of local artists, artisans, producers and makers. John Bunyan Community Boat launches its 2017 season The John Bunyan Boat’s public cruises launch for the 2017 season on Easter Saturday. The first event is an evening Fish and Chip Supper Cruise, followed on Sunday with an Afternoon Tea Cruise and a special Bank Holiday Monday cruise. johnbunyanboat.org At the Higgins, Picasso & the Masters of Print – extended until April 23 April The exhibition offers an opportunity to view together some of the most important prints by one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. The BIG Easter Egg Hunt with Bedford Chronicles, until Saturday 22 April Virtual ‘eggs’ are hidden across Bedford and the aim of the game is to find them all. Just download the free app, set your location and the hunt can begin. Once all the virtual ‘eggs’ have been collected, players can enter into a free prize draw to be in with a chance to win a real chocolate Easter egg or two! bedfordchronicles.co.uk
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HERTFORD & WARE The Hertfordshire towns of Hertford and Ware combine a delightful mix of heritage and modernisation. The riverside, rustic listed buildings with a roman heritage, shops and cafes, make the towns a popular place to live and visit. Hertford’s weekly market takes place every Saturday, while the farmers’ market is held on the second Saturday of every month. Visitors should stop by Hertford Castle, which host regular exhibitions and events. Art lovers will love Hertford’s choice of galleries. Courtyard Arts is a small but lively community arts centre on Port Vale in Hertford. It offers term time art and clay classes for adults and children alongside a vibrant programme of changing exhibitions. In addition to the gallery at the Centre, Courtyard also curates the gallery at Hertford Theatre. Ware is a busy high street with old world charm. Some of the timber framed buildings that are still standing along Crib Street have been restored since the 1970s as part of an ongoing project to keep the town true to its history. You’ll find a number of independent boutiques and high street stores. Ware’s main attraction is Ware Museum, which takes visitors back in time to the ghostly goings on in the town.
Ware’s premier wedding and conference venue – Ware Priory is a highly sought after wedding destination. Situated within seven acres of picturesque riverside gardens, this Grade I listed building is a monument of historical interest, carefully restored to be a beautiful event venue. Fletcher’s Lea opened for business in 2007 and is a modern and contemporary venue complementing the architecture of Ware Priory. Its Riverside Suite is modern in design and affords some fantastic views of the River Lea from the luxury of its own private decking area. The towns are ideal places for a day trip, located off the A10, and close to the M11. There are beautiful spots by the River Lea, which passes through the towns to sit and eat a picnic and take in the peaceful scenery, so don’t forget your flask and picnic blanket for those sunny days. WHAT’S ON Hertford Arts Trail, 7 April – 7 May The annual event showcases local artists at selected venues within the town. The launch event takes place at Hertford Castle, while the Art Trail begins on 8 April. The free art trail takes the public on a tour around Hertford visiting over 25 pop-up art exhibitions featuring a range of works including sculpture, textiles, canvas and watercolour.
WHAT’S ON in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 4-9 Apr Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games Michael Flatley continues to thrill audiences around the globe with an intoxicating mix of dance and music. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 6-Apr Russell Brand - Re: Birth How do we make sense of the madness of our lives once we become parents? What am I going to tell my daughter about conformity and responsibility? What happens if she grows up to be like me or, worse, date someone like me? Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 6-Apr Physic Sally: Call Me Physic The nations favourite psychic, Sally Morgan is back and better than ever with her brand new and most jaw-dropping show yet. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 7-Apr Jon Richardson: Old Man Best known as team captain on 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Jon returns to the road with his hotly anticipated new stand up tour. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 7-Apr Bourgeois & Maurice Riotous original songs meet hyper surreal, high fashion, in this provocative, thought-provoking and hysterical catwalk through the quagmire of current affairs. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 8-Apr Cinderella Vienna Festival Ballet’s production of ‘Cinderella’ is based on the traditional story and the ballet will surely touch and reach out to everyone’s heart. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 8-Apr Dizzy Boo Two houses, two gardens, three couples, six people... twelve relationships. One too many barbecues, one bewildered stranger, lots of laughs, a few home truths, end of story... Or is it? The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 9-Apr A Hero of our Time Pechorin, a young officer, embarks on a journey across the ma jestic mountains of the Caucasus, on a path set by his passions. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 9-Apr An Evening with Pam Ayres Pam Ayres has been making the nation
laugh for over 40 years. Her hair-trigger timing, her eye for the detail of everyday life, and for the absurdity therein. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 10-Apr Opera Mouse ‘Opera Mouse’ is a blend of puppets, audience participation and actual opera singing. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 12-Apr Joel Dommett One of the UK’s most energetic and exciting comedians returns to the road. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 13-Apr Omid Djalili Intelligent, sometimes provocative and always entertaining, his stand-up is a hugely energetic and captivating comedy masterclass. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 14-Apr Richard III Pushing the boundaries of Shakespearean Performance, Brite Theater have re-imagined Richard III as a bold and engaging one-woman show. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 15-Apr Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe Ian and Natalie have developed a whole new show with newly choreographed routines of their favourite Ballroom and Latin dances. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 18-22 Apr Ghost Taking its inspiration from the classic movie, this innovative reimagining will feature an expanded book, new music and original staging. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 19-22 Apr Northern Ballet: Casanova This spine-tingling spectacle of 18th century decadence will flood your senses and take your breath away. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 20-Apr Bedslam: with guest poet Hollie McNish The sizzle and zip of the poetry slam returns to Bedford. One Slam competitor will be crowned BedSlam champion 2017. Includes Guest performance by Hollie McNish. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org
21-Apr Northern Ballet: Goldilocks & The Three Bears Bringing this classic children’s story to life, Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 21-Apr Richard Herring: The Best King of the Edinburgh Fringe, Metro columnist and the UK’s Podfather (RHLSTP, AIOTM) picks his favourite routines from his 12 one-man shows and crams them into 90 minutes for your delectation. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 22-Apr Champions of Magic Tour 2017 Direct from a hit season in London’s West End, world-class illusionists make their debut in Hertford for a spectacular night of mystery that’ll keep you guessing for a long time to come.Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 24-29 Apr Dirty Dancing Seen by millions across the globe this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 24-29 Apr Hertford Theatre Week Six nights, six productions, performed in competition, all professionally adjudicated each evening by one of the country’s leading adjudicators...Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 24-29 Apr Jane Eyre This innovative re-imagining of Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece is a collaboration between the National Theatre and Bristol Old Vic and is directed by Sally Cookson. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 25-Apr Pasha Kovalev Choreographed in his unique way, earning him the most perfect 10s of all the Strictly professionals, this brand new show takes you around the globe, immersing you into the fascinating world of ballroom and Latin dancing like never before. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 27-29 Apr The Tempest A highly charged and energetic production, of what is considered to be Shakespeare’s final play, performed by the talented members of Berkhamsted Youth Theatre. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk
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27-29 Apr Hairspray The 1950’s are out and change is in the air! Hairspray, winner of 8 Tony Awards including Best Musical, is a family-friendly musical piled bouffant high with laughter, romance, and deliriously tuneful songs. Hawthorne Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL8 6BX. 0300 3039 620. www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk MUSIC 4-Apr Daoiri Farrell Farrell is being described by some of the biggest names in Irish folk music as one of most important singers to come out of Ireland in recent years, and has delivered the album to prove them right. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 6-Apr Tony Momrelle One of the UK’s most significant and exciting soulful singer-songwriters, Tony Momrelle is able to mix styles from soul to jazz to rhythm’n’blues in exciting and extraordinary ways. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 9-Apr Georgie Fame With his much-loved blend of jazz and rhythm ‘n’ blues, Georgie Fame has consistently worked in the highest musical circles and has become a true icon of the British music scene. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 11-Apr Caro Emerald The Amsterdam Conservatory jazztrained vocalist is an original pop star with the look of a Hollywood icon of yesteryear and a voice that oozes warmth and vitality. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 11-Apr YolanDa Brown Widely regarded as the emerging “voice” of mainstream jazz in the UK, YolanDa is one of the most exciting and in-demand live performers. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 14-Apr Luke Daniels: Revolve & Rotate Described by Songlines as “a future classic” and by Acoustic Magazine as “an enchanting delight”, award-winning singer and composer Luke Daniels brings his solo show to the stage. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 15-Apr Al Stewart: Back to the Bedsit Tour Hear acoustic versions from his musical back-pages going all the way back to the bedsit with Bedsitter Images. He will be accompanied by his long-time collaborator Dave Nachmanoff and joined by guitarist Tim Renwick. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 16-Apr Yamato Drummers In a brand new show, the drummers challenge and push themselves to their absolute limits. Yamato will leave audiences exhilarated by this visually spectacular, high-energy and explosive show. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 20-Apr An Evening with Ian McCulloch Iconic front man Ian McCulloch will
be giving a rare solo performance at The Stables, and the show will feature stripped-down versions of classic Bunnymen tracks as well as songs from his own solo catalogue. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 26-Apr Live Midweek Music Que Pasa The resident Jazz Quintet, Que Pasa, will explore and improvise in a range of musical languages, from Jazz, through Cuban to modern and home-grown. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 28-Apr Jeff Lang Arguably Australia’s most prolific guitarist, having recorded more than 20 albums both in his own right and as part of a series of fascinating collaborations, initially with the late Chris Whitley and more recently with Mamadou Diabate and Bobby Singh. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 29-Apr Opera Boys Leading men from London’s West End combine in a powerhouse of vocal harmony to deliver a stunning blend of music ranging from Opera to Pop, and everything in between. Rhodes Theatre 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-8 Apr Mike Townesend One Week Show Mike Townesend shows off some exciting new work in his latest exhibition. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 3-24 Apr Hue 4 Hue 4 is the fourth exhibition from East Anglian contemporary textile artists; members are presenting work inspired by their individual research. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 7-Apr Hertford Art Festival Launch Charity art exhibition previewing the work of artists taking part in the Hertford Art Trail. 50% of proceeds goes to charity. Hertford Castle, Castle Street, Hertford, SG14 1HR. 01992 552885 www.hertford.gov.uk 8 Apr-7 May Hertford Art Trail Visit 25 pop-up art exhibition venues around Hertford. Artwork ranges from sculpture to textile, oil to watercolour. Hertford Town Centre, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1HR. 01992 552885. www.hertford.gov.uk 10 Apr-4 May Members Show Another general show, where all 45 of the Eagle Artists have the option to show off their talents in a new exhibition. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 21 Apr-25 May Peter Dawkins This illustrator has enjoyed a long and successful career in the commercial and creative industries; he offers a discerning eye and love for depicting his travels and personal experiences. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com
SPECIAL EVENTS 7-Apr Fashion Show & Afternoon Tea In aid of The Nightingale Cancer Support Centre. Come and enjoy an afternoon with friends, including: Bucks Fizz reception, Afternoon Tea & the latest fashion from Pearsons of Enfield. Cuffley Hall, Maynards Place, Cuffley, EN6 4JA. 02083669674 www.nightingalesupport. org.uk 8-Apr Bedford Who Charity Con 3 Bedford’s third annual Doctor Who convention comes to the Quarry Theatre. All profits will be donated to Bedford Foodbank. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN.01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 8-Apr Carriage Tours Take in breath-taking views across the grounds and throughout the gardens of Woburn Abbey from the comfort of a historic Landau carriage. Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9WA. 01525 290333 www.woburnabbey.co.uk 14-15 Apr Easter Trail There is plenty to do in the Gardens this Easter – explore the Maze and the Dinosaur Trail. Enjoy the spring flowers and listen to the birdsong. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 01206 263088. www.knebworthhouse.com 16-17 Apr Easter Medieval Jousting Knights demonstrate their skills in hand to hand combat to the delight of the crowds who are encouraged to cheer, and jeer, their favourite knights. Fun for all the family! Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 01206 263088 www.knebworthhouse.com 22-Apr Street Art Festival Artists and performers will come together to showcase a wide range of local talent. From live painting to live music, workshops to dance offs, Hertford will be alive with creativity.Hertford Town Centre, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1HR. 01992 552885. www.hertford.gov.uk 30-Apr Mad Hatters Tea Party Enjoy Morris and Maypole dancing displays, crafts and storytelling, take a picnic in the magical grounds of the Swiss Garden, and be entertained by Alice in Wonderland themed characters and features in this charming Regency landscape – the perfect setting for fun and fantasy! The Swiss Garden, Old Warden, Bedfordshire, SG18 8EP. 01767 627933. www.shuttleworth.org ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 16-Apr Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Escape the high street and give yourself the opportunity of finding something truly unique at Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair with over 45 stalls. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH. 01480 382432 23-Apr Antiques & Collectors Fair Up to 80 tables, selling a wide and interesting variety of antiques, vintage and collectables, including Jewellery, Silver, Gold Militaria, Fabrics, Artworks, Ceramics, Glass, Art, Books, Postcards and more. Haddenham Village Hall, Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8EE. 07403 951682
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