Enjoy Hertfordshire 2011/12

The magazine of Hertfordshire Tourism and Leisure Partnership

Issue 13 Autumn/Winter 2011

Enjoy! Hertfordshire FREE

Discover

Hollywood Herts Le Mare Chocolat Flying High!

Family Fun! Special Events & Fun Days Out

Explore

Watford Myddelton House Creative Herts Markets

Issue 13 Autumn - Winter 2011

Enjoy! Hertfordshire The magazine of Hertfordshire Tourism and Leisure Partnership

Front cover: Smile by Mark Didcock 2011

CONTENTS Where to Stay Eating Out

06 22

relax

Fun Days Out What’s On Special Events

25 31 34

experience

Watford Myddelton House Creative Herts Markets

10 40 42 44

explore

Hollywood Herts 18 Chocolate 12 Panshanger Aerodrome 14 Museums & Heritage 39

discover

Map Pages 26-27. See Page 47 for Tourist Information and Page 50 for Useful Contacts

EDITORIAL Editor-in-chief Annie Hawkins Email: anniehawkins@enjoyhertfordshire.com Telephone: 01992 556231 ADVERTISING Advertisement Manager Stewart Hedges Telephone 01525 874607 or 07595 894557 DESIGN John Boston

Enjoy! Hertfordshire is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd, Unit 4,Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4HY (01954 268129)

PAGE 16 Enter our FREE PRIZE DRAW and win an Enjoy! Hertfordshire Cheque Book!

3

Did you know the restaurant & exclusive shops "! " ! " ! " ! " " " ! " """"" " " " " " ! " *Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 5.30pm / dusk* *)('*&%$%#"'*$! $" *! $*" * # * ! #! !'* (#* "(* * " (!*&%$% * *! " % *!&!' # % *"('* ! * # !* ' *'!# % * '! * $*#"*" !' * !' ! #* "'* % $* * '!$! #$ *# !* ! ( ( * !$% ! * $ " $* &!* * % !*' !*" *%#! $*#"*#! #* "( * " * "' % * " !! *# $# * ( !$* * ! % %"($* !' "" *#! $*% *# !* ! *'! (' %$ ! *'!$# (' #

*Free Admission* *Special Events*

*Free Parking*

* %! "($! " ( %! * "($! * %! * !' "' $ %'!* (sat nav: AL9 5HX)

4

introduction

Enjoy! Hertfordshire Welcome to the latest edition of Enjoy!

Hertfordshire magazine. I hope it will help you plan your stay and give you lots of ideas for days out in our beautiful county.

We are a host county for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Lee Valley White Water Centre in Broxbourne is hosting the London 2012 Olympic Canoe Slalom events, and we will be welcoming the world there in July.

The Torch Relay is coming to town on the 7 & 8 July, where it will visit several of our towns including Hertford, Ware, St Albans, Letchworth, Stevenage & Hatfield.

Look out for the celebrations.

The Great Bed of Ware which is currently in the Victoria & Albert Museum is

Last but not least, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, the Making of Harry Potter is set to open in Hertfordshire on 31 March at Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden.

This is really exciting news for us, and you can find out more about this amazing new attraction on page 25.

As you can see, there is a lot to look forward to in 2012, so do come and visit Hertfordshire, you will receive a warm welcome wherever you go,

Tim Hutchings Chair of Hertfordshire Tourism and Leisure Partnership

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

We have a lot to smile about in Hertfordshire. I am delighted to say that the Herts Tourism & Leisure Partnership were judged to be the Best UK Local Tourism Partnership ~ 2012 Olympics Initiative at the recent British Travel Awards, a brilliant result for Hertfordshire putting us on the national stage.

returning home to Ware on loan from the V & A, in April 2012. You will have the opportunity to see this amazing bed which sleeps up to 12 people in Ware Museum.

Many congratulations to the museum for this great achievement in bringing the Great Bed back to Ware.

5

relax

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To help you with choosing a place to relax after your busy day, here are a selection of places to stay during your visit to Hertfordshire

Where to stay

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3(!0% 7)4( -/.4(3 &2%% ,%)352% #,5" -%-"%23()0 "OOK AND CON½ RM YOUR WEDDING AT #HESHUNT -ARRIOTT (OTEL AND WE WILL GIVE MONTHS COMPLIMENTARY MEMBERSHIP TO OUR (OTEL ,EISURE #LUB ON THE RUN UP TO YOUR WEDDING 'ET IN SHAPE FOR YOUR BIG DAY BY SWIMMING IN OUR NEWLY REFURBISHED INDOOR POOL OR WORKING OUT IN OUR GYM 4O ENQUIRE ABOUT HOLDING YOUR WEDDING WITH US CALL AND SPEAK TO 3ARAH 'ROVES

Have an EXCEPTIONAL CHRISTMAS with

Watford Bring Your Party To Our Party… Join us for a 3 course Festive Lunch or Christmas Party Night From £18.95 p.p. throughout December

Tel: 01923 422 807 Email: christmas_watford@jurysinns.com 31-35 Clarendon Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1JA

7

AH HAND AND N IN M MARRIAGE ARRI RIIAGE WITH RA AMADA H EMPSTEAD RAMADA HEMEL EMEL H HEMPSTEAD Set in 6 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, this picturesque hotel has its own marquee situated in the hotel grounds. Available all year round the marquee can accommodate up to 180 guests.

Special offers available on selected dates.

For more information or to book call: Ramada Hemel Hempstead on 01582 791500 or email: meetings@rramadahemelh amadahemelhotel.co.uk Please quote QH001 when making an enquiry and, if you book a ÂŁ5k wedding package, you will receive a free upgrade to Champagne for your arrival drink.

www.ramadahemelhotel.co.uk

8

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*)('&'%)$#""'! *)('&'%)$#""'! )%' #! # )%' #! # *) ) ' ) ) '&'%) # # ! ) *) ) ' ) ) '&'%) # # ! ) *) ) ' ) ) # # ' ! ) *) ) ' ) ) # # ' ! ) *) #"' #")$#""'! *) #"' #")$#""'! )) ! % ! ! % ! *) ) #" *) ) #"

The Lord Lister Hotel

This listed building has a character of it’s own - all the beautifully furnished rooms have their own personality with en-suite bathrooms, TV, hair dryers, tea and coffee making facilities and direct dial telephones.

UÊ > ÞÊÀÕ Ê ÊÃ }Ê hotel UÊ7>À ÊvÀ i ` ÞÊÊÊÊÊ atmosphere UÊ ÝVi i ÌÊ-iÀÛ ViÊ> `ÊÊ affordable tariff UÊ-«iV > ÊÜii i `ÊÀ>ÌiÃÊÊ for 2 nights

UÊ ÕÀÊ« ÃÌiÀÊLi`À Ê available UÊ ÃÞÊ Ìi ÊL>À UÊ >À`i UÊ,ià `i ÌÃÊ/6Ê Õ }i UÊ ÀiiÊÜ Ài iÃÃÊ ÌiÀ iÌ UÊ viÀi ViÊv>V Ì iÃÊ Ê request

1 Park Street, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 9AH Email: info@lordlisterhotel.co.uk Tel: 01462 432712

www.lordlisterhotel.co.uk

explore

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

Look out for the Christmas themed markets in Watford Charter Place on 3 & 17 December. Perfect for buying special gifts for Christmas, you will find art & craft stalls alongside vintage and specialist food stalls.

Watford Charter Market has a large collection of independent traders, ranging from clothes to plants. There is always someone to help you and somewhere to sit down and have a cup of tea!

Regular opening hours of the market are Tuesday, Friday & Saturday from 7.30am to 8pm. Look on www.watfordmarket.org.uk for more information.

For sports fans, you can watch Championship football at Vicarage Road home of Watford FC. Family tickets and special offers are usually available. Check out www.watfordfc.com for offers. The ground is currently also home to Saracens Rugby Club, so if the oval ball is more your game look on www.saracens.com. Saracens are playing Ospreys at Wembley Stadium on December 10, a great family day out with pre match entertainment from Tinchy Stryder and Ronan Park.

With so much to see and do, you’ll need to stay over. Watford has a great selection of national chain hotels including Jurys Inn, Holiday Inn, Ramada, Hilton, Park Inn, Premier Inn and Travelodge, as well as The Grove - a five star luxury hotel, golf and spa resort, which is popular with film stars who film at the nearby Leavesden Studios. Look on www.herts-hotels.com for discounts.

Watford for you! atford is a vibrant, busy, culturally diverse town with lots to offer. With a fantastic range of hotels, shopping, dining, leisure and entertainment venues, there is something for all the family.

For those looking for some retail therapy, Watford is hard to beat. The Harlequin Centre has over 140 stores including John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Karen Millen, Waterstones, the Disney Store, Zara and Monsoon.

Alongside the Harlequin is Charter Place with shops like Top Shop, New Look, a traditional butcher and our indoor market. Watford Market has over 300 stalls selling everything from fruit to fish and cakes to cosmetics – it is open every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 8am until 5.30pm. Look out for the speciality markets along The Parade, which include continental and art & craft markets.

W

explore Enough shopping – time to relax! This popular town centre has a colourful mix of cafes, restaurants, bars and nightclubs as well as a comedy club and numerous live music venues - with both new and established bands and artists on the line up. Across the town is a selection of traditional, local pubs – all with their own character.

Back in the town centre, and you will find the wonderful Palace Theatre. Opened in 1908, it enjoys a high profile and a reputation for quality productions, you will often see a show before it transfers to the West End or tours nationally. The beautiful Grade II listed theatre has a popular café and bar.

Watford Colosseum, at the top of town, has reopened following a £5.5million refurbishment which includes a spectacular glass fronted side extension, a new café & restaurant. Acts include Jimmy Carr, Stephen Merchant and Jools Holland. Previously known as Watford Assembly Halls it originally opened in 1940.

The design of the hall resulted in acoustics which still have the reputation for being some of the finest in Europe.

Visit: www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk for more information on programming or telephone the box office on 0845 075 3993.

Fantastic events are always taking place across the town. To sign up for regular email alerts, please visit www.watford.gov.uk/signup For information about Watford visit: www.WatfordForYou.org

For a quieter time in the outdoors, Watford has over 40 areas of parkland and open space for you to enjoy, including the wonderful Cassiobury Park. Situated a short walk from the town centre, Cassiobury Park, a four time Green Flag award winner, is a green oasis, a park rich in natural beauty and steeped in heritage. With two new children’s playgrounds, a muchloved miniature railway, paddling pools, the Grand Union Canal and access to Whippendell Woods, it’s a gorgeously green day out in itself.

And if you can squeeze just one more cup of tea and slice of cake in, visit the lovely Café Cha Cha Cha. Watford has over 4,500 parking spaces in seven car parks in and around the town centre but we are also well connected by public transport and encourage visitors to use the bus, train or tube wherever possible. Overground services, including the Abbey Flyer, and a huge number of buses call into the transport hub of the town at Watford Junction station, with the tube calling at Watford Metropolitan station (on the Met line). If the sun is shining – we have well marked cycle paths with plenty of bike racks dotted around.

For those visitors less mobile, we have a Shopmobility scheme that runs seven days a week.

11

discover

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

Le Mare Chocolat can also be found at the Henry Moore Foundation shop where they sell their own bespoke chocolates showing Henry Moore’s sculptures. Based in Perry Green, it is the former home of artist Moore. With 70 acres of countryside with outdoor sculpture, his restored house and studios and a gallery with changing exhibitions, it is well worth a visit. It opens for the season in the spring, but look out for special events. Check the website www.henry-moore.org for opening times and more information.

If you want a nostalgic trip back to your childhood a visit to the Sweet Shop at Hatfield House is a must. Part of the Stable Yard shops, it is open 11.30am to 4.30pm Tuesday to Sunday, it sells an impressive range of traditional confectionery. They have an amazing sweet basket gift selection which would make the perfect Christmas or Easter present. The Schooldays Basket has all your schoolday favourites including rhubarb & custard, popping candy, sherbet dabs & fountains, pink shrimps & sugar mice….or you might prefer the Seriously Sour or Liquorice Basket. Gifts can of course be tailor made with your choice of sweets. Look on www.thesweetshophatfieldhouse.com or telephone 07721 392336 for more information.

Chocoholics

beware

garden shed in Stevenage Old Town is home to the unique Le Mare Chocolat. This is not just any old garden shed though. It has been converted to Food Standard Agency level and is fully air-conditioned, essential to keep the chocolates at their best. As you walk through the door the delicious smell of chocolate hits your senses!

A

Mick Le Mare is our very own Herts based Chocolatier. He decided to change career and trained with one of the World’s leading chocolate producing companies, Barry Callebeaut, who are based in Switzerland. Learning basic tempering techniques to creating specialised hand finished pralines, Mick now makes his own high quality personalised/themed chocolates with fresh cream or caramel centres and beautiful structured spheres and hearts that include edible 23 carat gold and sterling silver leaf.

discover A trained graphic designer Mick’s chocolates start on his computer where he designs the artwork. This is then transferred using edible inks, onto a clear pvc transfer sheet. As the inks are translucent each transfer is backed up with a layer of white chocolate which improves the definition of the design. The normal process of chocolate making then takes place, forming the shell, ganache/caramel filling, sealing, taking out of the mould and packaging. Willy Wonka would be so proud.

Lessiter’s is another independent chocolate manufacturer and was founded in North London in 1911. One hundred years later, it is still very much a family run business. The Lessiter’s Factory Shop can be found at London Road in Woolmer Green. Here you can buy limited edition chocolates and truffles or choose your favourites from the deli counter. Opening times are Mon – Fri: 9-5.30pm and Sat 9-5pm.

Look on www.lessiters.co.uk or telephone 01438 817338 for more information.

These amazing chocolates are made with premium Belgian Fair Trade chocolate and ingredients for the soft centres are sourced locally. They are then presented in beautiful gift wrapped boxes, with hand tied trimmings, which make the chocolates look even more tempting!

These fabulous chocolates are ideal for weddings, special occasions and corporate events and you will be able to buy them for yourself at Stevenage Old Town’s Farmers’ Market on Saturday 17 December.

They will make the perfect special gift or just as a treat, they taste and look amazing! Look on www.lemarechocolat.co.uk

The Waffle House in St Albans offers a variety of savoury and sweet waffles which are made using wholewheat, white and Spelt flours which are organically grown, produced and stoneground at Redbournbury Mill just a couple of miles upriver. For many years they have used organically farmed meats, free range eggs and hams from naturally reared pigs.

The coffee and teas are organic and /or fair trade and they only use organic milk. Established for over 25 years the Waffle House is located within a working 16th Century watermill overlooking the River Ver. Winter opening hours are 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week.

Look on www.waffflehouse.co.uk/ st-albans or telephone: 01727 853502.

13

discover

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

Why not give someone an amazing flying experience for Christmas? The Vintage Flight package includes afternoon tea and a 30 minute flight in a vintage Piper Super Cub over the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside and costs just £89. You might want to send someone upside down this Christmas, give the person you love a special taster flight in an aerobatic aircraft, 15 minutes of exhilarating fun for just £120.

Christmas pilot starter packages are available and start at just £220. This package involves a 60 minute flight with an instructor in a 2 or 4 seater aircraft with a briefing along with a log book to log your first hour plus the Pilot’s Manual, all presented in a beautiful engraved gift box.

The Flying School offers flying lessons and pilot training for a selection of licences and cater for beginners to advanced checkouts.

You can book some time with one of the fully qualified instructors to start flying today or attend one of the Open Days in the New Year to find out more.

For information on membership, events and flying packages contact: sue@northlondonflyingschool.com , telephone 01707 391791 or look on www.northlondonflyingschool.com

Flying

high

anshanger Aerodrome in Welwyn Garden City is one of the remaining historic aerodromes in the UK. Panshanger was born during WW2 as a decoy aerodrome and was created by film experts.

It was complete with dummy aircraft, cars, smoking chimneys and deliberate black out leaks operated by switch. These measures were taken to divert the German pilots from the real Hatfield airbase. It was so successful that many of our own fighter pilots landed at Panshanger by mistake!

In the early 1940s the aerodrome became a base for the RAF as an elementary flight training school. In the 1950s the RAF pulled out and it became a civilian airport for General Aviation. Today it is the base for the North London Flying Club and the Out of the Box Café which serves light snacks, homemade cakes and a fine selection of hot and cold drinks. The Out of the Box Cafe is for members only and membership is a one off £30 for life membership, which gives you 10% of all food and drinks in the café and invitations to events at the Aerodrome, including the Vintage Flying Day and regular Open Days.

Look on www.northlondonflyingschool.com for more information.

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Win an

Enjoy!Cheque Hertfordshire Book We have 200 Enjoy!

Hertfordshire cheque books up for grabs in our FREE draw competition.

The spotlight is going to be on Hertfordshire in 2012 when we host the Canoe Slalom event as part of the world’s biggest sporting event – the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games. The Lee Valley White Water Centre is the only brand new Olympic venue to open for you to use before the Games www.gowhitewater.co.uk The cheque book is made up of over 20 cheques that give you discounts on accommodation and meals, two for one entry to attractions and other exciting offers across Hertfordshire. It offers you many opportunities to explore, relax and Enjoy! Hertfordshire in the run up to and during the Games.

All cheques are valid up to September 2012 and total value of the Enjoy! Hertfordshire cheque book is over £550.

Just answer the question below and you could be in with a chance of winning a cheque book.

Enjoy! Hertfordshire

Answer

Send your completed entry to: Enjoy! Hertfordshire Cheque Book Competition, Economic Development, County Hall, Pegs Lane, Hertford, Herts, SG13 8DN. No later than 15 March 2012.

Just answer the following question: What is the name of the venue where the London 2012 Olympic Games Canoe Slalom event is taking place?

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Name Address Postcode Tel No Would you like to receive tourist information from Enjoy! Hertfordshire?

JYes J No

Visit

St Albans Museums MUSEUM OF ST ALBANS 9a HatďŹ eld Road, St Albans AL1 3RR 01727 819340

VERULAMIUM MUSEUM St Michaels, St Albans AL3 4SW 01727 751810

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

St ALBANS SCHOOL HMC Day School 820 pupils Headmaster: Andrew Grant MA

ENTRY FOR BOYS at 11 and 13 ENTRY FOR BOYS and GIRLS at 16+

the ďŹ rst School in Hertfordshire

94% A and B at A level 87% A* and A at GCSE Coach services at 4pm and 6pm Finest games facilities in the county Extensive extra-curricular activities Bursaries and Scholarships (up to 100%) awarded at each entry level Easy reach by train from London, West Hampstead, Luton and Bedford Open Mornings 17 September, 8 October, 12 November and 3 December 16+ Evening 1 November

NON

N AT I NOBIS

Admissions Officer, St Albans School, Abbey Gateway, St Albans, Herts AL3 4HB Telephone : 01727 855521 email: admissions@st-albans.herts.sch.uk www.st-albans.herts.sch.uk

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discover

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The First Impressions project was established in the spirit of encouraging people to rediscover our unique film legacy and of recognising the local talents which helped create it. Elstree Screen Heritage was a driving force behind the film project and focus on keeping the local film heritage alive. They record, preserve and share the legacy of film & television, past, present and future. Look on www.elstreescreenheritage.org for more information on the work they do.

Hammer Films had continuing success at the Studios from the mid 1960s. They released many suspense, horror and glamour films one after another, including She, One Million Years BC and the classic The Devil Rides Out. Christopher Lee did some of his stalking of victims as Dracula in nearby Aldenham Country Park which is now home to 100 Aker Wood and the Winnie the Pooh Trail. Look on www.hertsdirect.org/aldenham In 1976 a young George Lucas picked Elstree Studio as the place he wanted to make his planned space epic Star Wars. He returned in the 80s with his two Star Wars sequels, the Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi and with his old pal Spielberg also created daring archaeologist Indiana Jones. In 1999, two new soundstages, named after Lucas were opened

by HRH Prince Charles.

Hollywood

Herts

ince before the First World War Hertfordshire has been the home to more movie and television production than any other place outside of Hollywood, USA. In 1914 the first silent film studio in Borehamwood opened and heralded the start of what was to become known as the ‘Hollywood of England’. Six more studios were to follow and in the 1980’s six of the top ten grossing films worldwide were produced in this hub of the British film industry. While those films, the Indiana Jones and Star Wars series, were American-financed, it was local talent, especially in the craft skills, that made them possible.

Since the 1950’s television shows have played their

S

discover part in using these talents. Many ‘dream factories’ have been lost over the years: the MGM British Studios once stood in over 110 acres of Hertfordshire land, complete with film stages, backlots and its very own castle, sadly long gone. This famous studio, was the home of 2001: A Space Odyssey, Ivanhoe, Village of the Damned, The Dirty Dozen, Where Eagles Dare and so many other famous films. The BBC Elstree Centre and Elstree Studios, recently home to the King’s Speech continue to be hives of activity.

And now some of these iconic film and television images are on display in the streets of Borehamwood for you to explore and learn more about Hertfordshire’s film heritage.

Arriving train passengers are greeted by a frieze of images around the walls of the booking hall.

Step outside and follow the trail of stars in the pavement. Look up and see the banners proclaiming Lights, Camera, Action.’ Next to the pathway to the town centre you can see an original metal sculpture of a film crew hard at work which celebrates the Hertfordshire film industry.

If you are interested in exploring film locations and discovering what scene was shot where and how you can tread in the footsteps of the stars check out www.sceneonscreen.co.uk.

Hertfordshire along with the counties of Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk have a wealth of tantalising filming heritage. Many big films were made on location in Herts. Hatfield Business Park was previously the film location for Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan and the series Band of Brothers. Both Hatfield House and Knebworth House are also popular locations for blockbusters and TV series.

The film industry is still very important to Hertfordshire. The Harry Potter films were all made at Leavesden Studios near Watford and exciting news for next year is that the Warner Bros Studio Tour, the Making of Harry Potter is due to open in spring 2012. You can experience the original Harry Potter sets, costumes and models for yourself. Tickets must be booked in advance, but they are on sale now. Book your date and time on www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

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discover

Making his home in Hertfordshire, legendary director Stanley Kubrick was a familiar face at the Studios. He directed groundbreaking masterpieces such as 2001:A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange and Jack Nicholson in his signature role in The Shining.

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

Borehamwood has two market days, on Saturday and Tuesday of each week. They sell fruit and vegetables, flowers, clothes and other household goods, both are traditional Charter markets, so do pop along for a bargain or two. The annual Town Festival for 2012 is 16 to 30 June and kicks off with the Carnival Parade and ends on the 30 June with the free Family Day in Meadow Park.

Look on www.elstreeborehamwoodtc.gov.uk for more special events.

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OFFER Should you decide to make Elstree & Borehamwood your centre for exploring this corner of Hertfordshire, with neighbouring St. Albans and our surrounding rural villages, why not stay at the Borehamwood Ibis? Simply quote ENJOY! Impressions and claim your special discount of ÂŁ47 per room and 50% discount on breakfast. Email your booking to Daniel on h6186-dm@accor.com.

This great price is subject to availability and must be booked by email: Look on www.ibishotel.com for more information on the hotel.

Stroll on through the town centre, following the film and TV heritage trail of 20 information panels which lead you from the train station down Shenley Road to the gates of Elstree Studios. Barbara Windsor, Cliff Richard, Hammer Films, Stanley Kubrick, Christopher Lee, John Mills, Elizabeth Taylor, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Simon Cowell, Roger Moore‌ the list goes on and on.

Look up and you will see more banners and iconic images on the lampposts, including John Mills in Ice Cold in Alex, Jack Nicholson in The Shining and Darth Vader and C3PO from the Star Wars films.

It is hoped one day to create a permanent film and television heritage centre, a fitting place to remember, to experience and to celebrate the exciting creative world which has made Elstree and Borehamwood unique for almost 100 years.

So come along and follow the film trail and then relax in one of the many cafes or restaurants in the busy High Street.

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relax

Eating out

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Fun days out

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London The Making of Harry Potter Set to open on 31st March 2012, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a behind-the-scenes walking tour which immerses guests into the world of film-making, featuring authentic sets, costumes and props that showcase the British artistry, technology and talent that goes into producing world famous and successful movies.

Housed in two purpose-built soundstages, the Studio Tour will initially focus on the Harry Potter film series. For the first time ever, visitors will be able to step on to the actual sets, including the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, Hadgrid’s hut and the Ministry of Magic, as well as marvel at the groundbreaking special effects that made Harry Potter the most successful film series ever.

Located at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, the production home of Harry Potter for over 10 years, this is a must-see for Harry Potter fans, as well as film buffs. Adults £28, children £21.

Tickets must be booked in advance via www.wbstudiotour.co.uk or via approved tour operators.

experience

Opening 31st March 2012 • Go behind the scenes of Harry Potter • Step onto the actual sets including the Great Hall & Dumbledore's office • See the real costumes • Learn how the special effects were created • Book your tickets now at www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

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www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

experience

Touring

map

experience

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BOOK NOW!

Saturday 26 November 2011 Sunday 22 January 2012 BOX OFFICE 01438 363200 BOOK ONLINE www.gordon-craig.co.uk

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Fun days out

experience

Natural History Museum

Rye House Kart Raceway Rye House, in Hoddesdon is the legendary karting hotspot where you can experience the thrills of high speed go karting along UK’s leading all weather outdoor tracks, where Lewis Hamilton spent his early years. It’s fun, fast and furious in the high-powered racing machines along this challenging circuit designed to bring out the ‘driving force’ in you.

With tailor made packages for children’s parties, corporate days out, team building, stag/hen and birthday parties – Rye House delivers all the excitement of a competitive world-class racing circuit, and much more. you never know it may be the beginning of your own Formula 1 career.

Open 7 days a week from 10.00am – 10.00pm, look on www.rye-house.co.uk or telephone 01992 460895 Ext 2

Discover the fascinating range of animals collected by Lionel Walter Rothschild in this beautiful Victorian Museum. It is home to over 5000 specimens collected on behalf of Rothschild and includes many examples of Victorian taxidermy. As well as collecting many mounted animals he kept an astonishing variety of live animals in the grounds around the museum and in Tring Park. From the cassowary to the zebra he collected them all. He was fascinated by animals and dedicated his life to studying zoology, he even used zebras to draw his carriage. The Discovery Room at the museum has many hands-on exhibits aimed at children and there are gallery trails and activity sheets available for just 50p each. The Wildlife Photographer of the year exhibition is on from 3 December to 22 January. Images celebrate the beauty and magnificence of the world in which we live and showcases talented young photographers and gifted amateurs with leading lights of the profession from around the globe. Entrance to the museum and the exhibition is free and it is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, and 2pm to 5pm on Sunday. Look on www.nhm.ac.uk/tring for more information on events.

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Visit us in 2012!

From 14th February - 27th November 2012.

Open Tuesdays 10 - 4; Saturdays 10 - 1; Sundays 2 - 5 Small admission charge; free entry to cafe

Lots to see & do - rain or shine!

Explore this fascinating Museum that brings the history of education to life.

Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 9TS tel: 01462 420144 www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk

' 'ARDENONAROLL OFFERS THE NON GARDENER THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLANT THEIR ARDENONAROLL OFFERS THE NON GARDENER THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLANT THEIR VVERY OWN PRE DESIGN BORDER USING THE NEW PATENTED LIFE SIZED PAPER ERY OWN PRE DESIGN BORDER USING THE NEW PATENTED LIFE SIZED PAPER PLAN SYSTEM WITH CIRCLES AND NUMBERS ON THE PAPER WHICH CORRESPONDS PLAN SYSTEM WITH CIRCLES AND NUMBERS ON THE PAPER WHICH CORRESPONDS WITH THE NUMBER ON THE PLANTS WITH THE NUMBER ON THE PLANTS 3IMPLY GO TO OUR WEB SITE AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS TO PRODUCE YOUR OWN PERFECT BORDER „ #HOOSE THE STYLE OF PLANTS YOU LIKE „ 3ELECT REQUIRED LENGTH AND WIDTH „ 0LACE YOUR ORDER AND RECEIVE DELIVERY „ #ARRY OUT SIMPLE GROUND PREPARATION „ 0LANT BY FOLLOWING GROUND SHEET PLAN

&OR MORE INFORMATION OR ADVICE PLEASE VISIT OUR WEB SITE WWW GARDENONAROLL CO UK OR CONTACT !NTONY (ENN ON ANTONYHENN GARDENONAROLL CO UK 'ARDENONAROLL 4HE $UTCH .URSERY "ELL "AR (AT½ELD !, .$

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What’s On 2011-12 Great Hertfordshire events throughout the Winter & Spring

ALL YEAR ROUND Jazz at the Hawthorne Suite Campus West Welwyn Garden City Every Sunday evening Music from 8pm Booking advisable www.hertsjazz.co.uk Bovingdon Market All year around every Saturday and Bank Holiday Mondays www.bovingdonmarket.co.uk

experience

11 December Wildlife Watch Rye Meads Nature Reserve Stanstead Abbotts 01992 708383 www.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads 23 December The Selecter Hertford Corn Exchange 01992 584322 www.hertfordcornexchange.co.uk

JANUARY DECEMBER 3 Dec - 22 January Wildlife Photography Exhibition Natural History Museum at Tring www.nhm.ac.uk/tring

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

9 December – 1 January Aladdin Hertford Theatre www.hertfordtheatre.com

5 & 12 January Boutique Market The Green House Letchworth www.letchworthgreenhouse.co.uk 11 - 15 January Robin Hood Hertford Theatre www.hertfordpanto.com

9 – 31 December Sleeping Beauty Broxbourne Civic Hall www.broxbourne.gov.uk

15 – 31 January Beryl Cook Art Exhibition The Radlett Centre 01923 859291 www.artexporadlett.co.uk

10 December – 1 January Jack & the Beanstalk Wyllyotts Theatre Potters Bar www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

15 January Art & Antiques Fair The Radlett Centre 01923 859291 www.artexporadlett.co.uk

FEBRUARY 3 February Drop Another Hat Tribute to Flanders & Swann Letchworth Arts Centre 01462 670788 4 February Sawbridgeworth Farmers’ Market Bell Street Carpark, 9am-1pm www.eastherts.gov.uk 4 February Hertfordshire Chorus Concert St Albans Cathedral 0870 4580445 www.hertfordshirechorus.org.uk 4 – 26 February Snowdrop Walks Benington Lordship www.beningtonlordship.co.uk 18 February Navarra String Quartet Hawthorne Theatre Welwyn Garden City www.welhat.gov.uk 22 February St Albans Pancake Race 01727 864511 www.stalbans.gov.uk

17 – 25 March Music City 2012 Various gigs around St Albans www.stalbans.gov.uk/musiccity 24 & 25 March Art Exhibition Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall 10am to 4.30pm www.eastherts.gov.uk

APRIL 6 & 7 April Alice in Wonderland Easter Tea Party Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com 21 April St Georges Day Festival Grundy Park Cheshunt www.broxbourne.gov.uk 28 April Red Cross Aerial Challenge Westmill Farm, Nr Ware 01992 585969 www.redcross.org.uk

MAY MARCH 10 March Community Fun Day Campus West Welwyn Garden City www.welhat.gov.uk

4 May Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular Rhodes Arts Complex Bishops Stortford 01279 651746 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk

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FRIDAY 9TH DECEMBER

9 BELOW ZERO SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER

ABSOLUTE BOWIE THURSDAY 15TH DECEMBER

TOPLOADER FRIDAY 16TH DECEMBER

WHOLE LOTTA LED MONDAY 19TH DECEMBER

CHAS AND HIS BAND + BUSTER SHUFFLE FRIDAY 23RD DECEMBER

THE SELECTER WWW.HERTFORDCORNEXCHANGE.CO.UK

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This year’s exciting magical family Pantomime is...

SKATE PARTIES! STARTING FROM JUST £150 FOR 60 PEOPLE THAT’S JUST £2.50 EACH!

BOOK NOW!

SIMON CALLOW READS EXCERPTS FROM HIS NEW BOOK

FIVE BY ONE

WITH GUY MASTERSON

Live On Stage at the Hawthorne Theatre THURSDAY 8 DECEMBER to SUNDAY 1 JANUARY

Tue 15 to Sat 19 November. Tickets: £10 per show American Poodle Under Milk Wood Fern Hill Animal Farm Shylock

Friday 10 February | 7.30pm Tickets £19.50

www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

St Albans markets

Charter Market Wednesdays and Saturdays In St Peters Street every week the best street market in the whole of Hertfordshire, full of atmosphere and variety.

St Albans Farmers Market 2nd Sunday Morning every month Also in St Peters Street, home grown produce a gourmets delight.

Wheathampstead Market 3rd Sunday Morning Every month Behind the Bull Public house, bring your kids or walk the dog, friendly atmosphere and pleasant surroundings, free parking.

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Animal Crackers Are you looking for that extra special gift for a loved one? How about pulling a Christmas cracker with their favourite animal at Paradise Wildlife Park? This fantastic day includes welcome drinks, an animal cracker with materials to decorate it with and festive fillings with the animals’ favourite goodies.

A keeper will take you into the animal enclosure so you can pull the cracker with your chosen furry friend. Crackers for Gibbons, Squirrel Monkeys, Meerkats, Lemurs.

Coatis & Raccoons are £45 each and Big Cats £65. You must buy your cracker before 31 January 2012. To purchase your cracker call Sarah on 01992 476 573 or email sarah@pwpark.com. For opening times look on www.pwpark.com

Get Your Skates On...

Experience the magic of ice skating on real ice at Van Hage, Gt Amwell, nr Ware this Christmas. The fantastic 625m2 rink is

surrounded by a fully heated marquee with a mouth-watering Café Bar. Skate hire is included in the admission price and the rink is open until 8 January 2012. To book your 45 minute skating session look on www.vanhage.co.uk or telephone 01920 870811. Off peak tickets start at £9 for adults and £7 for children.

Across the county at Hatfield House you can also skate in the Stable Yard on their artificial skating rink. It is open from 1 to 23 December, 10am to 5pm and costs just £5 for adults and £3 for children per 25 minute session. Book on line on www.hatfieldhouse.co.uk or telephone 01707 357117.

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

Special events

experience

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experience

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

Tiptoe Through the Snowdrops

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Visit Benington Lordship during 4 to 26 February, 12 to 4pm to see the famous Benington Lordship snowdrops. If you are a member of the Royal Horticultural Society it is free entry 4 to 10 February. Admission is £5 for adults and £2 for children. You will see a spectacular display of snowdrops around the remains of the Norman Castle and surrounding moat. There are guided walks on Mondays and Wednesdays at 2pm. Tickets are £1 and are sold on a first come first served basis on the day for a maximum of 30 people.

For more information look on www.beningtonlordship.co.uk

All That Jazz Herts Jazz Club meets every Sunday at the Hawthorne Studio, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City. Performances start at 7.45pm and tickets are £13 on the night or £11 if booked on line. Acts lined up for 2012 include the Jim Mullen Reunion Band, Damon Brown’s Ugetsu and the Frank Harrison Trio. Annual membership of Herts Jazz is £40. For more information look on www.hertsjazz.co.uk

Special events • The ever popular festive reading of Charles Dickens’ a Christmas Carol by actor Colin Greenslade takes place at Knebworth House on 16 to 18 December.

Start with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, and enjoy Christmas carols performed from the Minstrels’ Gallery.

Admission is £21.50 per person. Book online on www.knebworthhouse.com or telephone 01438 810931 for more information.

• St Albans Symphony Orchestra’s ‘The Festival of Britain Family Concert’ takes place on 2 January at 7pm at St Albans Abbey. From Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March through to the Dambusters and Chariots of Fire come along and celebrate in music all that is great about Britain in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year. For ticket prices and other concerts look on www.saso.org.uk or email tickets@saso.org.uk.

• A warm welcome awaits you at Willows Farm Village where you can visit farmyard animals, enjoy the daily programme of shows and activities including Woolly’s Showtime Theatre and Ferret Fun. Willows Farm Shop supports local producers with a butchers, deli counter and coffee shop.

Santa’s Grotto and the Magical Ice Rink is open until 24th December, visit Santa to receive the golden key to his Toy Shop.

Enjoy the Festive Woodland Ride and the Reindeer Hunt. Telephone 0870 129 9718 or look on www.willowsfarmvillage.com for more details, times and admission prices.

oxholes fFarm Shop

Butchery and Delicatessen Make this year’s Christmas party memorable.

We cater for up to 360 guests and are available for exclusive party hire from November to February 2012. Or join our shared party nights in December. Get in touch today and let us make your Christmas party an unforgettable one.

Traditional Quality Beef and Pork straight from the heart of Hertfordshire

01582 873831 zoofunctions@zsl.org

zsl.org Registered Charity in England & Wales: no 208728

Opening Hours Mon to Weds 8.30am - 5.30pm Thurs & Fri 8.30 - 6pm Sat 8am - 5pm Sun 10am - 5pm

01992 552 900 www.foxholesfarm.com www.benslow.org www w.benslo . w.org .o .

Tel: T eel:: 01462 459446

Email:: inf info@benslow.org o@benslow.org

Foxholes Farm, London Road, Hertford, Herts SG13 7NT

Little Benslo Benslow w Hills,, Benslo Benslow w Lane Lane,, Hitchin,, Her Herts, ts, SG4 9RB A Compan Companyy limited bbyy guarantee Register Registered ed in England No 408404

Charity No 313663

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Perry Green Open 1 April to 30 October 2011 Telephone 01279 844 104 www.henry-moore.org

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Set in delightful grounds alongside the River Lea; Hertford Castle is an exclusive, historic venue Civil Weddings or corporate meetings.

The Downshire Suite in the South Wing comprises three syndicated rooms, to offer complete flexibility to suit your needs, and can accommodate up to 50 seated delegates/guests or up to 100 for informal gatherings.

for

with this advert

A programme of family events organised from April through to December include Band Concerts, Open Days, Wedding Exhibitions, Fun Day, Scottish Country Dancing, Charity Rock Festival.

SG10 6EE

Private tours of Hertford Castle by request please contact Hertford Town & Tourist Information Centre on 01992 584322

THE CASTLE HERTFORD SG14 1HR 01992 552885 customerservices@hertford.gov.uk www.hertford.gov.uk

Enjoy! Hertfordshire museums

Hertfordshire boasts dozens of museums, large and small, which unlock the rich and fascinating heritage of the county from prehistoric times to the present day.

Unlock the past - Visit a Museum To discover what your museum has to offer visit the Herts Museums website www.hertsmuseums.org.uk

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discover

Museums

& heritage

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com

explore

Mill Green Mill & Museum nr Hatfield offers you the opportunity to see a working watermill in action. It is open all day on Tuesday, Wednesday and on Sundays and Bank Holiday afternoons. On milling days [Tuesday and Wednesday] you can feel the power as the stones turn to make pure fresh flour the traditional way. You can get close to the majestic wooden machinery in all its glory. You can even buy yourself a bag of wholemeal organic flour to take home.

Don’t miss the Victorian Christmas Fair on Sunday 4th December, 2pm to 4.30pm.

The museum also runs some great craft workshops for children throughout the year, Christmas crafts are planned for 20/21/22 December. These must be booked in advance on 01707 357117 or look on www.welhat.gov.uk/museum for more information. Admission to the Mill is just £2.50 for an adult and children are free.

OFFER: you can buy an annual season ticket for just £10, this will give you unlimited free entry to both Mill Green Mill & Museum and to Welwyn Roman Baths for one year, what a bargain and a great family Christmas gift

Bowled over he newly restored Myddelton House Gardens, at Bulls Cross are an enchanting place to visit at any time of the year. Following a two year Heritage Lottery Funded project which has funded the restoration of several areas of the gardens, there is a new Visitor Centre, Tea Room and newly restored Kitchen Garden, and entry is free.

All of the hard work has paid off and the gardens have been awarded a prestigious Green Flag and also a Green Heritage Award.

Delve into the enchanting six acres of Myddelton House Gardens and discover the compelling story of one of Britain’s most famous self-taught gardeners, artists and expert botanists - Edward Augustus Bowles.

He lived in Myddelton House from 1865 to 1954 and dedicated much of his life to transforming the gardens with his love of unusual and exotic plants.

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explore There’s an impressive range of flora and fauna to stimulate the senses each season. Explore the unusual plants of the Lunatic Asylum, the newly restored Kitchen Garden, the colourful Alpine Meadow and the extensive snowdrop collection which bring the gardens to life during February. You can visit the potting shed and step back in time and see the original gardening tools hanging on the walls.

Benington Lordship is situated just four miles east of Stevenage in the picturesque village of Benington. The gardens are spread over seven acres surrounding a fine Georgian manor house with the remains of a Norman Castle and moat.

Visitors of all ages will enjoy the peaceful location, a haven for wildlife that offers unspoilt views over the Hertfordshire countryside. The popular Snowdrop walks take place from 4th to 26th February, 12-4pm.

Admission is £5 Adults & £2 Children. The collection of rare and unusual Snowdrops has been built up over the years. There are masses of Hellebores flower with Aconites and winter flowering shrubs, plus coloured stems of Acers, Cornus and Willow around the lakes. Look on www.beningtonlordship.co.uk

The gardens are also home to a beautiful carp lake, a Victorian conservatory and a number of historical artefacts collected and treasured by Mr Bowles, including pieces from the original St Paul’s Cathedral and the Enfield Market Cross. The cross and two 280 year old Van Nost lead ostriches are now housed in the Visitor Centre, which also tells the Bowles life story.

Once you have had a gentle stroll through the gardens, relax with a cup of tea and a slice of cake or sandwich in the Tea Room.

Look on www.leevalleypark.org.uk for more information.

The RSPB Rye Meads Nature Reserve in Stanstead Abbotts is a twitchers delight and a fantastic day out for all the family.

There are ten hides and you may well catch sight of bitterns, kingfishers and lots of wading birds on your visit. Check out the watervole feeding stations. You can borrow children’s explorer backpacks or bird bingo sheets.

The reserve is also home to seven Water Buffalo, you won’t find many of those in Hertfordshire! Look on www.rspb.org.uk/ryemeads

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explore

The shops at Hatfield House Stable Yard provide a wide selection of gorgeous gift opportunities. There is lots of temptation to treat you or a loved one to that extra special present. The Oak Room showcases an inspiring blend of unique and interesting beautiful things for your home and family, kitchenware, toys, ribbons, cards & jewellery. It is open 10am to 5.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed from 25 December to February 2012. www.oakroomshop.co.uk Westmill Farm is also home to the Aerial Adventure Park. It is a huge high ropes course with over 50 individual challenging elements. It has five zip lines including the BIG Zip which is over 100m in length. There are six separate courses to suit all abilities, suitable for 8yrs plus.

Look on www.westmillfarm.co.uk for opening times and prices.

Advance booking is essential.

Creative herts ewly opened contemporary art space Palace Green Gallery offers an exhibition space for Hertfordshire artists, and the chance for buyers to purchase artworks from quality makers nationwide, but 75% of the artworks on offer are from local artists.

Launched in the palatial grounds of Hatfield House, Palace Green Gallery features works in ceramics and glass, as well as original prints, etchings, screen prints and works on canvas in a brightly lit, open space with vaulted ceilings.

Currently displaying work by the prestigious ceramicist Jane Muir and local London scene painter Paul Hiles, Palace Green Gallery allows work to be viewed for every taste and budget.

Accessed via George’s Gate, Palace Green Gallery is situated a short walk along the front of the Old Palace into the Stable Yard. . Parking and entry to the Gallery, the Stable Yard Shops and the Coach House Restaurant at Hatfield House is free.

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explore Palace Green Gallery is open 6 days a week, Tuesday to Sunday from 11.00am to 5.30pm. Contact the gallery at palacegreengallery@gmail.com or phone (01707) 872551. or look on www.palacegreengallery.co.uk

Artshed Arts Creative Skills Centre is a contemporary art venue situated on the Rib Valley Leisure Complex at Westmill Farm, Ware in Hertfordshire.

The combination of gallery space and workshop studios for fine art and ceramics and jewellery construction are unique in Hertfordshire. The classes are suitable for all ages and abilities. There is full disabled access throughout the centre.

New for 2012 is the jewellery making courses which include brooch making and enamelling. Artshed is also hosting a Christmas Craft Fair at Westmill Farm on 17 & 18 December.

Artshed has a ceramics and sculpture supplies outlet.

They stock a good selection of tools, clays, glazes and have a selection of equipment. You can order on line on potterysales@artshedarts.co.uk If you wanted to stay overnight the traditional market towns of Ware and nearby Hertford has several hotels and B & Bs where you can rest your weary head. Both towns have an excellent cafĂŠ culture, so you will be spoilt for choice for where to have your dinner or chill over a glass of wine or real ale.

Look on www.artshedarts.co.uk for more details about the fair and art classes on offer.

Westmill Farm has its own camping and caravan site, close to the A10 and A1M routes.

Pitch prices are extremely competitive at only ÂŁ18 for any caravan, motor home, tent or trailer tent.

They have 18 pitches with electric hook up and 20 pitches without hook up. They have brand new washing/shower facilities on site too. If you are camping it makes a good central location to explore East Hertfordshire.

Also on site are the Rib Valley Fishing Lakes made up of three still-water lakes; Rib Lake, Millennium Lake, and Westmill Lake. The lakes are open for fishing throughout the year and are open from 7.00 am to dusk, seven days a week. Any of the lakes may be booked for exclusive use either for match fishing, corporate days or party bookings.

All tickets must be purchased from the tackle shop on site, near the main entrance during shop opening hours, The tackle shop sells an excellent range of coarse and fly fishing tackle as well as bait. For more information, call 01920 462200 or email mike.ribvalley@hotmail.com Look on www.westmillfarm.co.uk for more information on camping and fishing.

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The village of Wheathampstead has a great smaller farmers’ market on the 3rd Sunday of the month, 10am to 3pm. Here you will find a range of the best local food you can buy, including the famous Whitwell watercress from Nine Wells Watercress Farm. The cress is grown in free flowing spring water and is still hand harvested in the traditional way.

The result is beautifully fresh and wonderfully peppery watercress.

There is also a hall which hosts indoor craft stalls and where the local Women’s Institute offer home made cakes and refreshments if you need to recharge your batteries.

Pearce’s Farm Shop nr Buntingford can be found just off the A10 and has a large choice of fruit and vegetables, meat, cakes, bread, cheese, plants, herbs and flowers. From May to October you can pick your own soft fruits, mainly raspberries and strawberries. Later in the season you will see sunflowers, pumpkins and gourds. They also stock compost, hay, straw, logs and kindling, you can easily spend an hour pottering around the shop.

New for December is the café where you will be able to sample homemade cakes and snacks. For opening times look on www.pearcesfarmshop.com or telephone: 01920 821246

To market to market f you are looking for seasonal produce or a special gift for someone, why not pay a visit to one of the many farmers’ markets that take place across Hertfordshire. You will be pleasantly surprised by the quality and selection of local produce on offer.

The markets feature a wide range of produce varying from area to area. What they all share is a passion for quality, for service and for providing good value for money. The atmosphere at the markets is always rather special, largely created by the enthusiasm of the stallholders in selling their products. Apart from a wide range of foods, the markets often sell other items such as soaps, bath products, lavender, flowers & plants and crafts. At Christmas and Easter time you will find seasonal crafts and gifts available too.

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explore The great thing about the markets is you can source the provenance of your food and support our local producers and farmers.

Two of the biggest farmers’ markets take place in St Albans on the 2nd Sunday of each month from 8am to 2pm and in Hatfield in White Lion Square the 1st Saturday of each month, except January, from 9am to 1pm. There are over 55 stalls at the Hatfield market with a varied mix that includes seasonal fruit & veg, meats, fish, cheese, pies, pickles and crafts. It is well worth a visit.

Hertford farmers’ market takes place the 2nd Saturday of the month and is home to the Hertford Porker made by local butcher Ronnie Macleod. These award winning sausages are made from 70% pork shoulder with a little belly fat. The meat is minced just once which gives them a great texture and is then mixed with the secret Hertfordshire blend of herbs and spices. The meat is then put into natural hog cases and the sausages are then individually hand linked.

Many local pubs and cafes are now including the Hertford Porker on their menus including the Salisbury Arms Hotel in Hertford. Look on www.hertfordporker.co.uk for more information.

Whatever your tastes you will find a farmers market taking place near you most weekends, so support your local businesses and buy local. For the dates of markets across the county see page 46. For information on local producers look on www.bigbarn.co.uk

Church Farm Ardeley is well worth a visit and the Farm Store, café and Jolly Waggoners Pub are open 7 days a week serving the best food from the farm. It is free to walk the footpaths to see the animals, woods and veg growing area at anytime.

The farm takes a biological and ecological approach to farming and is a farm that grows food for local people and for customers. They are now taking orders for Christmas food boxes, but seasonal vegetable and meat boxes are available all year round. For more information on Church Farm and opening hours look on www.churchfarm ardeley.co.uk or telephone: 01438 861447.

St Albans traditional street market takes place along St Peter’s Street every Wednesday and Saturday. It dates from the 9th Century and was granted a special Royal Charter in 1553. It has over 160 stalls selling everything from fish to fabrics. Where else could you buy a whole salmon, cut-to-size foam, healing crystals or herbs all in one place?

You could do all your shopping by just walking through the market and probably be tempted to buy more than you planned.

Look on www.stalbans.gov.uk for more information.

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markets

These are our regular markets in the county. Watch out for other seasonal markets and events throughout the year, like French markets

Contact your local Tourist Information Centre (TIC) for further details. See pages 47-48

Tourist information

information

For more information about places to visit, accommodation, events, restaurants, pubs and much, much more, a visit or a telephone call to one of our Tourist Information Centres will provide you with the answers. Trained, professional staff will help you get the most from your visit. i D7 Bishop’s Stortford Tourist Information Centre 2 Market Square, CM23 3UU Tel: 01279 655831 Email: tic@bishopsstortford.org www.bishopsstortford.org i C5 Hertford Tourist Information Centre 10 Market Place, SG14 1DG Tel: 01992 584322 Email: tic@hertford.gov.uk www.hertford.gov.uk i E4/5 Letchworth Garden City Tourist Information Centre 33/35 Station Road, SG6 3BB Tel: 01462 487868 Email: tic@letchworth.com www.letchworthgc.com i C3/4 St Albans Tourist Information Centre Town Hall, Market Place, AL3 5DJ Tel: 01727 864511 Email: tic@stalbans.gov.uk www.stalbans.gov.uk You will also find tourist information at the following places: i E4/5 Baldock Library Simpson Drive. Tel: 01438 737333 i C2 Berkhamsted Library King's Road. Tel: 01438 737333 i E6 Buntingford Tourist Information Point The Manor House, High Street.

Tel: 01763 272222 Email: btc.manorhouse@btclick.com i B6 Cheshunt Library Windmill Lane. Tel: 01992 785592 i B5/6 Goffs Oak Library Goffs Lane. Tel: 01992 785592

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information

i C/D3 Harpenden Tourist Information Point Town Hall, Leyton Road.

Tel: 01582 768278 i C2/3 Hemel Hempstead Tourist Information Point Civic Centre, Marlowes. Tel: 01442 234222 www.dacorum.gov.uk i B4 Hertsmere Tourist Information Point Borough Council Offices, Elstree Way, Borehamwood.

Tel: 0208 207 2277 Email: customer.services@hertsmere.gov.uk www.hertsmere.gov.uk i E4 Hitchin Town Centre Initiative 27 Churchyard. Tel: 01462 453335 Email: htci@hitchin.net i E4 Hitchin Library Paynes Park. Tel: 01438 737333 i C6 Hoddesdon One Stop Shop 42 Tower Centre. Tel: 01992 785592 i A/B2 Rickmansworth Information Point 3 Rivers House, Northway. Tel: 01923 776611 Email: enquiries@threerivers.gov.uk i F6 Royston Library Market Hill. Tel: 01438 737333 i D/E4/5 Stevenage Central Library Southgate. Tel: 01438 737333 i C1 Tring Tourist Information Point 99 Akeman Street. Tel: 01442 823347 Email: info@tring.gov.uk i B6 Waltham Cross One Stop Shop 123 High Street. Tel: 01992 785592 i D6 Ware Tourist Information Point The Priory Lodge, High Street. Tel: 01920 487848 i B3 Watford One Stop Shop Town Hall. Tel: 01923 226400

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Courtyard Arts Hertford’s leading visual arts venue

Art Gallery Unique Gift shop Art Workshops for everyone CafĂŠ Car park at rear

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 10:00am - 4:00pm, Friday 10:00am - 5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm T: 01992 509596 E: admin@courtyardarts.org.uk W: www.courtyardarts.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 104469.

NEW for this year over 400 fts model aircra to see

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useful contacts

Painting by Louise Shotter

How to get here

www.enjoyhertfordshire.com 50

traveline 0871 200 22 33 (0700 – 2200). (Calls from BT Landlines cost 10p per minute, mobile and other providers’ charges may vary) www.intalink.org.uk (For timetables, maps, journey planning and breaking news).

National Rail Enquiries 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Tel: 08457 48 49 50 www.nationalrail.co.uk

Painting by Graham Brock, Harpenden

Herts Travel Information from Intalink

M

ain line stations serve Hertfordshire from London including Kings Cross, St Pancras and Liverpool Street.

The M1 and the A1(M) run through the county and Stansted Airport is situated to the east with Luton Airport on the northern border. Buses and trains link the towns and there is an extensive network of roads with many idyllic country lanes. Hertfordshire really is something special.

Stop and stay a while, experience, discover, explore and relax.