Livelife spring summer 2018

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Spring/Summer 2018

Life over 50 in the East

SPRING SUMMER 2018

Life over 50 in the East

SUMMER DAYS OUT GLOBE TROTTER 2018 HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS RAISE A GLASS TO EAST ANGLIA’S WINES Issue 006

PLUS: PENSIONS, PROPERTY, HEALTH AND MORE

A WORLD CLASS VENUE ON THE IPSWICH WATERFRONT

Photography: Roswitha Chesher, 2017

CLASSES FOR ADULTS AND OLDER MOVERS - Yoga - Pilates - Ballet - Tap

- Hip Hop - Contemporary - Egyptian Belly Dance - Time to Dance (50 years+)

DanceEast also offers classes for those with dementia and Parkinson’s to attend with their carers and loved ones.

For more information and how to book your classes please visit DANCEEAST.CO.UK or call our Box Office on 01473 295230.

Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional

CONTENTS Great summer events 7 There are hundreds of events to enjoy in the region over the next few months

Newmarket: more than a racecourse 22

Historic days out 16 Discover the region’s rich culture and history with these fantastic days out The best spas and hotels in the East 20 Wind down at some of the region’s best spa and hotel breaks A guide to Newmarket 22 We look beyond the racetrack to see what the town has to offer

Experience the region’s best vineyards 29 As English Wine Week approaches there has never been a better time to sample local vino Holidays which welcome man’s best friend 32 We travel across the region to uncover the best dog friendly hotels and restaurants Undiscovered Suffolk 39 Our team explores the hidden gems found in this beautiful and culturally rich county Is it time to de-clutter your life? 56 Make room for yourself by following our guide to ditching the junk in your life Martin Lewis 61 The money saving expert explores the important subject of life insurance

The Norwich Gin Festival 8

Publisher Sean Thompson Editor Emma Kemsley 01954 267904 emma@eastlife.co.uk Production Manager Paul Balaam Designer Ben Attenborough

Social Media Manager Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex) Darren Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastlife.co.uk

Events round up 73 We round up the best events in the region

Area Manager (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) Stewart Hedges 07595 894557 stewart@eastlife.co.uk Area Manager (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) Jim Leishman 01954 267635 jim@eastlife.co.uk

Accounts/enquiries 01954 268129 accounts@eastlife.co.uk Head Office Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY

Humphry Repton

Art & Nature for the Duke of Bedford Exhibition open daily

woburnabbey.co.uk/Repton FIND US ON

J3819 WA Repton Livelife Mag ad 168x240_Spring/Summer18.indd 1

27/03/2018 11:35

Discover over 500 years of fascinating local and British history at Knebworth House & explore the 28-acres of delightful Formal Gardens Many events & exhibitions are included with the price of admission Direct access from A1(M) at J7, just 29 miles north of Central London

Knebworthhouse.com 01438 812661 Knebworth House Gardens & Park, Knebworth, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX

Ickworth

When you come to capture the view, together we bring history alive.

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

Š National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846.

Photography Š National Trust Images.

#nationaltrust

DAYS OUT

The Maui Waui Festival brings bands and circus acts to Theberton, Suffolk, in August

20 Great Summer events Whether it’s music or motors, food or flowers or simply some good old fashioned summer fun, there are hundreds of events to enjoy in the region over the next few months. We’ve picked some of our favourites…

Festival of Dogs, May to September Bring your furry friend along for a fun family day out as the Festival of Dogs pops up across the region this summer. There’s plenty of havea-go agility courses, the scurry, Dogs Have Talent contest and fun dog shows. The show will be at Weald Country Park on 6-7 May and 29-30 September, Highfield Park in St Albans on 30 June and 1 July, Elvedon from 7-8 July and Cassiobury Park Avenue in Watford from 26-27 August. www.festivalsofdogs.co.uk Bury St Edmunds Festival, 18-27 May The 35th year of the festival is set to be a big one; taking place over 10 days, spread over 14 venues and hosting 59 events. Don’t miss the

likes of Aled Jones and Jools Holland. A new Festival feature for 2018 is a series of outdoor concerts in the beautiful landscaped countryside of Nowton Park. www.buryfestival.co.uk Norwich City Of Ale, City Centre, 24 May – 3 June Norwich City of Ale is a 10-day celebration of local pubs, breweries and real ale taking place throughout the city. BBQs, live music and pub quizzes are among the festivities. cityofale.org.uk Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios, Various Norfolk Locations, 26 May – 10 June Celebrating its 24th anniversary, more than 420 artists will be taking part this year across 241 venues throughout Norfolk. Throughout the duration of the scheme many of the artists will be holding additional events, demonstrations and workshops. www.nnopenstudios.org.uk eastlife.co.uk | 7

DAYS OUT The Suffolk Show, Trinity Park, Ipswich, Suffolk, 30-31 May The annual show celebrates agriculture and farming life. It’s renowned for its grand ring displays, amazing animals, spectacular show jumping and local produce. www.suffolkshow.co.uk Red Rooster, Euston Hall, Suffolk, 31 May – 2 June Red Rooster champions the very best in RnB, Americana, Blues, Soul, Roots and Country.

Immerse yourself in a truly Deep South weekend experience of music, food and culture. www.redrooster.org.uk Aldeburgh Music Festival, Suffolk, 8-24 June This year the popular festival will celebrate Britten and America, as well as 1948, the period in post-war British history when the festival began. There’s a line-up of concerts, exhibitions, talks, films, walks and events. www.aldeburgh.co.uk Sundown Cinema, Suffolk, Cambs, Herts & Beds, 13 June – 1 September Enjoy an evening in the great outdoors while watching classic films such as Top Gun, Dirty Dancing and Breakfast at Tiffany’s at venues such as IWM Duxford, Hitchin Lavender, Hitchin Priory, Luton Hoo, Shuttleworth House, Ickworth House, The Jockey Club and Wimpole Estate. www.sundowncinema.co.uk Ely Cathedral Flower Festival, 21-24 June There will be up to 100 exhibits including a water feature, a floral arch the length of Ely’s impressive nave and an entire area dedicated to commemorating the end of WWI. Throughout the four day event there will be musical performances, talks and demonstrations by floral experts, delicious food & drink outlets and a Gift & Craft Marquee. www.elycathedral.org 8 | eastlife.co.uk

The Norwich Gin Festival is in July Woburn Abbey Garden Show, 23-24 June The show provides an opportunity to enjoy an introduction to gardening, hone or learn new skills and purchase plants and garden items. www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events/gardening/ wwwwoburnabbeycoukgardenshow Cambridgeshire Food Festival, East Of England Showground, Peterborough, 23-24 June There’ll be plenty of great food and drink to sample and buy, plus amazing cookery demonstrations, free activities and more. www.cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk Music By The Sea, Aldeburgh, 30 June The free open air charity concert returns to Aldeburgh this summer with a great line-up of national and local artists performing live from 4pm until dark. A sensational firework display will bring the evening to a rousing finale at 10pm www.musicbythesea.co.uk Norwich Gin Festival, The Halls, Norwich, 6-8 July Explore the different zones including lively bars, a generous and informative brand room, plus the creative cocktail bar all under one roof. Tickets from £14. www.ginfestival.com/events

DAYS OUT

Everly Everly are to perform at Music by the Sea in Aldeburgh in June Battle Of The Proms, Hatfield House, Herts, 14 July A summer celebration, the event begins at 4.30pm, and offers an afternoon and evening of entertainment.

The Battle Proms Orchestral performance and a traditional sing-along, flag-waving and grand firework display close the event. Tickets from £39. www.hatfield-house.co.uk Essex Festival Of Food And Drink, Cressing Temple, 14-15 July Over 150 food and drink stands from all over the East. Don’t miss demos from chef Chris Galvin, First Dates host Fred Sirieix and chef Tom Kerridge.

2018essexfestivalofoodanddrink.apteventspro. co.uk Holt Festival, Holt, Norfolk, 21-29 July The town comes alive with a vibrant mix of comedy, poetry, dance, music and more with something for everyone to enjoy. 2018 acts include Tom Baxter Band and Leo Sayer. www.holtfestival.org

Cambridge Folk Festival, Cherry Hinton Hall, Cambs, 2-5 August Known for its mix of music and great line-up of artists, over 40 acts will be taking part. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/folk-festival Steam, Crafts & Country Life Fair, Knebworth House, Herts, 11-12 August Enjoy steam & other vintage vehicles, children’s entertainers and circus workshops, plus rustic crafts, gifts and food marquees and trade stands. www.knebworthhouse.com Maui Waui Festival, Theberton, Suffolk, 24-26 August A host of world class bands, full circus shows in a dedicated circus tent, small upbeat bands and acoustic acts, plus cabaret and comedy. www.mauiwauievents.co.uk Classics In The Park, Knebworth House, Herts, 26-27 August 1,000 classic cars each day and a live arena including the famous ‘Decibel Duel’, where owners compete to find the loudest car. www.knebworthhouse.com/events eastlife.co.uk | 9

THEATRE

Dramatic announcement Exciting shows, big names and laugh out loud comedy, it’s all coming to a theatre near you.

Check out our guide to the region’s best spring and summer performances…

Comedy It’s a laugh a minute this summer as some of the UK’s most popular comedians tour the region. On 6 June Chris Ramsey returns to the Civic Theatre in Chelmsford with his ‘Happy Just to Get Out the House’ tour. The King’s Lynn Corn Exchange will be showing, ‘Menopause the Musical’ on 3 May, which is filled with laughs and four top stars, while Jenny Éclair, Dillie Keane and Lizzie Roper are the ‘Grumpy Old Women – To The Rescue’ on 17 June.

“Funny, frank and unapologetically filthy,” is the description of Sarah Millican’s latest tour ‘Control Enthusiast’. Catch her at the Cambridge Corn Exchange from 20-23 June.

Lee Hurst will be ‘Mucking About’ at Hertford Theatre on 5 May. Theatre Hold on to your pigtails! The month of June will see the first ever UK Tour of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s multi award-winning production of ‘Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical’, bringing the much loved story to life on the Milton Keynes Theatre stage from 5-30 June. There’s also fun for all the family with the return of everyone’s favourite green ogre with the musical fairytale Shrek The Musical from 25 July – 5 August.

For a thought provoking performance book tickets to Civic Theatre’s, ‘A Brave Face’ on 5 May; it’s the exploration of a soldier’s post traumatic stress, using actors in full-face masks to tell the story without speech. A witty adaptation of Charles Dickens’ great Northern novel, ‘Hard Times’, brings you a joyful jug-

A circus style interpretation of Dickens’ classic Hard Times Photo: Nobby Clark gling and tumbling ride through this touching and often hilarious tale of repression and longing at the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds from 16-19 May. Direct from the West End, the multi-award winning master of mind-control and psychological illusion, Derren Brown, returns to amaze, astonish and enthral audiences with his latest smash hit show at Cliffs Pavilion, in Southend on Sea, from 2-5 July. eastlife.co.uk | 11

Discover the history of King’s Lynn Tour the old gaol cells, see the magnificent King John cup, and more! Fascinating for all ages.

Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 5DQ Open Daily | 01553 774297 www.storiesoflynn.com App available now

  

The Hayes Gallery established in 1965, deals in traditional paintings of the 19th, 20th & 21st Century.

There are several accomplished contemporary artists who exhibit on a permanent basis.

We provide a picture framing service along with the cleaning & restoration of oil paintings.

Opening hours 9.30 to 5pm on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday or by appointment.

9 London Street, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7DD.

Telephone (01760 723755)

  



    

THEATRE

‘A Brave Face’ explores post traumatic stress at the Civic Theatre in Chelmsford Music The life and songs of the greatest glam rocker of them all, Marc Bolan, will come to life at the Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, when ‘20th Century Boy’ hits the stage, from 28-30 June.

The smash hit musical will mark the 40th anniversary of Marc’s tragic death, and will feature many of his greatest T-Rex songs, which were a permanent feature in the pop charts throughout the 1970s. Expect to hear classic T.Rex songs Metal Guru, Hot Love, Ride a White Swan, Get It On, I Love to Boogie, Children of The Revolution and many, many more solid gold hits.

You’ll be out of your seats singing and dancing as hit West End and Broadway musical, ‘Footloose: The Musical’ visits Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds from 25-28 July. If you prefer the sweet sounds of country music make sure ‘Islands in the Stream’ is on your list on 11 May. This thigh-slapping stage show brings together

the beloved glamour and personality of Dolly Parton, along with Kenny Roger’s charisma and energy with hit after hit.

A brand new show performed by Henry VIII’s six wives combines historical heartbreak with a pop soundtrack and heralds a new chapter in the life of Norwich Playhouse. Fresh from a handful of sold-out previews in London, ‘SIX’ premieres at Norwich Playhouse on 11-15 July. It will signify a new chapter in the Playhouse’s life as it legally merges and formally becomes part of the Norwich Theatre Royal.

‘SIX’, which tells six remarkable stories of Henry’s wives are revealed as a Beyonce meets Little Mix style pop concert, joining contemporary music and sassy lyrics to a historical narrative, will come to Norwich before heading to the Edinburgh Festival this summer and into the West End in the autumn. By catching it in July, Playhouse audiences will be the first to see this stunning new musical. eastlife.co.uk | 13

CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET

BIG BRANDS, SMALL PRICES Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL Contact us or visit us online to get more news on events, store offers and much more!

01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

FASHION OU TLETS | LEISURE STORES | CAFES FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES | FREE PARKING

DISCOUNTED FASHION, FOOTWEAR, FURNITURE AND MUCH MORE!

HATFIELD HOUSE, GARDEN AND PARK IS THE PERFEC T PLACE TO VISIT THIS SPRING .

Visitors can enjoy the state rooms rich in paintings, fine furniture and tapestries along with a picture perfect garden which dates from the early 17th century.

Beautifully designed gifts, jewellery, toys and much more can be found in the Stable Yard shops. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing at River Cottage Kitchen & Deli which serves a variety of delicious foods throughout the day.

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS

HOUSE, PARK & GARDENS

STABLE YARD SHOPS & RIVER COTTAGE KITCHEN & DELI

WWW.HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK | VISITORS@HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK

DAYS OUT

The audience for ‘The Fantastic Mr Fox’ screening at Ickworth House

Take a step back in time Stately homes, historic houses, glorious gardens and art through the times, the East of England has plenty for history lovers to enjoy. Learn more about East Anglia’s heritage with our pick of great historic days out.

Ickworth House, Parkland and Gardens The Rotunda, Horringer, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5QE Tel: 01284735270 | www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth A Georgian Italianate palace in an idyllic English landscape Ickworth’s impressive Rotunda – a magnificent showcase commissioned by the 4th Earl of Bristol to house his priceless 16 | eastlife.co.uk

treasures collected on tours around Europe in the 18th-century – is an architectural marvel.

Ickworth hosts outdoor theatre and cinema.

Bask in the early dusk, with the Rotunda as the stunning backdrop for your evening performances. Bring your family to the brand new Country Estate Fayre held at Ickworth; a chance to celebrate the traditions and skills of old and new, as well as live music, storytelling, games and much more!

For those wet weather days, watch the past unravel around you in the 1930s Servants’ Quarters, and when the sun does decide to show its face explore the 1800 acres of historic gardens and parklands, with one of the many walks and paths available to discover.

DAYS OUT Humphry Repton exhibition at Woburn Abbey & Gardens Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9WA Tel: 01525 290 333 | www.woburnabbey.co.uk Earlier this year Alan Titchmarsh opened a new exhibition at Woburn Abbey & Gardens, which celebrates the bicentenary of Britain’s first landscape gardener, Humphry Repton.

Open to the public between 23 March and 28 October 2018, the exhibition explores the fascinating relationship between Repton and Woburn. On public display for visitors to see for the first time will be his most elaborate and comprehensive ‘Red Book’, his famous presentation document of proposed designs.

Henry Moore Foundation Dane Tree House, Perry Green, Much Hadham SG10 6EE Tel: 01279 843 333 | www.henry-moore.org In March the Henry Moore Studios & Gardens, in Much Hadham, opened for the 2018 season with a new exhibition; ‘Out of the Block: Henry Moore Carvings’, available to view from 30 March until 28 October.

In the year of Henry Moore’s 120th birthday, the Henry Moore Foundation presents an exhibition exploring Moore’s changing approach to this key element of his artistic practice.

‘Out of the Block’ brings together nearly 30 major works in stone and wood, made over six decades, from the collection of the Henry Moore Foundation.

Hatfield House Hatfield Park, Hatfield, Herts, AL9 5NB Tel: 01707 287010 | www.hatfield-house.co.uk A gem in the Hertfordshire countryside, the stunning estate offers plenty for visitors to enjoy. Explore the Jacobean craftsmanship throughout the House and visit the gorgeous gardens.

The House hosts a popular events programme throughout the year including

monthly farmers’ and antique markets, the annual Living Crafts event on 10 May, outdoor theatre in July and Battle Proms on 14 July.

IWM Duxford Duxford, Cambridgeshire, CB22 4QR www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford This museum is a must for all with an interest in aviation and the Second World War. Walk through the impressive hangers and buildings, marvel in awe at some of the world’s most famous aircrafts such the B-52, Spitfire and Lancaster. The Duxford Air Festival is held on on 26-27 May. Wrest Park Silsoe, Bedfordshire MK45 4HR Tel: 0370 333 1181 | www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/wrest-park Visitors can explore the evolution of the English garden with a stroll through three centuries of landscape design at Wrest Park.

This summer the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow will be filming for its 41st series in the grounds on 19 July. Doors open at 9.30am and close at 4.30pm. Entry to the show is free, everyone is welcome, and no tickets or pre-registration is required. www.bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshow Knebworth House Old Knebworth Ln, Knebworth SG1 2AX 01438 812661 | www.knebworthhouse.com Knebworth House with its 28 acres of Formal Gardens, historical deer park, much loved Adventure Playground and Trail of 72 life-sized dinosaurs, is open to the public on weekends and school holidays from 24th March until 30th September.

Hertfordshire Garden Show – 5-7th May: Over 100 exhibitors with a wide variety of goods on display and for sale.

Homes & Antiques Fair – 26-27th May: Discover the great selection of unique items sold by top antique dealers eastlife.co.uk | 17

Discover Britain’s foremost modern sculptor at Henry Moore Studios & Gardens.

Explore Henry Moore’s studios, home and sculptures in over 70 acres of glorious countryside, plus a new exhibition of the artist’s carvings.

30 MARCH - 28 OCTOBER 2018 WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS 11AM-5PM www.henry-moore.org

HENRY MOORE STUDIOS & GARDENS Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE 01279 843333

Registered Charity Number 271370

VISIT

SAFFRON WALDEN Saffron Walden is a delightful medieval market town located in North-West Essex. It has a rich heritage of old buildings, including St Mary’s Church, the largest and one of the most beautiful parish churches in Essex.

The town also has a friendly, award winning museum.

Market days are Tuesday and Saturday.

On the North Side of town is Bridge End Garden, a recently restored Victorian Garden of great charm, which contains a wonderful yew hedge maze and sunken Dutch Garden. OPEN FREE OF CHARGE For further information about how to get here, places to visit, where to stay, local events and activities, please contact: SAFFRON WALDEN TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE 1 Market Place, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1HR. Tel: 01799 524002 Email: tourism@saffronwalden.gov.uk

www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk

SANDRINGHAM 2018

SANDRINGHAM

SANDRINGHAM

SANDRINGHAM

With FIVE main arenas, supported by a host of smaller country sports arenas and workshops and the very best in countryside activities and entertainment, we can offer you an unbeatable family day out.

Live demonstrations from artists, designers and craftsmen. Purchase an inimitable piece of creativity. Don’t miss out! An expanding show this year with plenty of exciting new Trade and Food attractions

DETAILS & TICKETS AT

DETAILS & TICKETS AT

DETAILS & TICKETS AT

sandringhamfoodfestival.co.uk

www.sandringhamgameandcountryfair.co.uk

www.sandringhamcraftshow.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL 4th - 5th Aug

• Food Roadshow • Large Food Halls • Real Ale Marquee • Have a go Workshops • The Piazza Food Court • Live Jazz & Folk • Fruit De Mer Restaurant • Working Crafts • Children’s Entertainment

GAME & COUNTRY FAIR 8th - 9th Sept

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FOOD & GIFT FAIR 16th - 18th Nov

SANDRINGHAM Nr. Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE35 6EN

Living Heritage Events LH0114 107x148 SANDRINGHAM 13-4.indd 1

Tel: 01283 820548 09/04/2018 12:22

Mr Michael Gaunt SUMMER PARTY PINS

LOVE YOUR LEGS

Leading consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt specialises in varicose vein & thread vein treatments using Endovenous Laser & ClariVein.

LOOKING GOOD

Also available is VeinWave treatment for unsightly facial red veins and spider veins.

FEELING GREAT

Mini-consultations start at £95 to include an initial assessment and potential bespoke treatment options.

Harley Street London Spire Lea & Nuffield Health Cambridge

BMI Bury St Edmunds Suffolk Spire Norwich Norfolk

www.michaelgaunt.com

01223 305858

HEALTH

Hit refresh with a spa break Written by Georgie Gilding There’s nothing quite like a little pamper from time to time. With so many desirable spa locations to choose from we have selected the best wellness spas to suit your various needs and to ensure you can stop, revive and thrive in 2018…

Wyboston Lakes, Beds Great N Rd, Wyboston MK44 3AL Tel: 0333 700 7667 | www.yspa.co.uk If like us, sometimes you need a little pick me up then keep reading as we’ve found the perfect spa day escape at a bargain price. Located between Cambridge and Bedford, the Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes has an impressive array of facilities to help you completely relax.

A steam room, salty steam room, two saunas offering a moderate or high heat, frost wall, experience showers and heated outdoor hydrotherapy pool with deck chairs and cosy sofas dotted around the edge – it is easy to spend hours blissfully relaxing before an afternoon treatment. After your treatment head for the relaxation area which includes a room of pod-like chairs perfect for curling up with a book, and the ‘Big Sleep’; a room of loungers with warm blankets and a fireplace. Most spa days include lunch at the spa restaurant, which offers stunning views of the lake. Spa day packages start from £69 per person.

Down Hall, Herts Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS Tel: 01279 731 441 | downhall.co.uk Down Hall is the perfect place to relax your mind, body and soul and is conveniently located in Hatfield Heath, near Bishop’s Stortford on the Hertfordshire and Essex border. Down Hall Hotel is beautiful inside and out. High 20 | eastlife.co.uk

ceilings and grand portraits of previous home owners line the corridors and outside the gardens are immaculate. Enjoy a lovely walk around the 110 acres of garden and woodland, before popping on your robe and heading to the Eden Spa. The spa features a sauna, steam and hydro pool and relaxation room. There are a range of specialist treatments from ESPA as well as nail care. Whether you are looking to rest, rejuvenate or relax, Eden Spa is the place for you.

Ufford Park Woodbridge, Suffolk Yarmouth Road, Woodbridge IP12 1QW Tel: 01394 383555 | www.uffordpark.co.uk The health club, gym and spa is located in 120 acres of picturesque parkland and a 18-hole golf course. The spa includes a swimming pool, fully equipped gym, sauna and steam. The Fire and Ice Experience is a great way to enjoy the Thermal Suite, which uses a series of hot and cooling experiences, guiding your body through a sensory journey with the ultimate aim of inducing deep relaxation.

Choose from a full or half day options, both of which include a delicious lunch and 30-minute treatment. There are packages to suit all budgets with experiences starting from just £39 per person. Check out the residential Suffolk Spa Breaks at Ufford Park that all include a 3-course dinner at the Park Restaurant, breakfast, full use of spa and gym, plus treatments Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Essex Stock Rd, Stock, Ingatestone CM4 9BE Tel: 01277 829990 | www.greenwoodshotel.com Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is a breathtaking blend of 17th century architecture set in a stunning English garden. Recently refurbished, the spa has a 20 metre pool, nine luxurious

HEALTH

treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room plus a manicure and pedicure bar. To really help give yourself a body boost, we highly recommend The Himalayan Body Brilliance treatment. This uses pink Himalayan sea salt to exfoliate the body leaving it silky soft and delicately fragranced.

A blend of 84 trace minerals helps to detoxify the body and encourages nutrient absorption to the skin. And if all that relaxing has left you hungry, the hotel and spa offers one of the yummiest sparkling English Afternoon Teas to truly round off the perfect spa day!

The Pigs, Edgefield Norwich Rd, Edgefield NR24 2RL Tel: 01263 587 634 | thepigs.org.uk Fancy spending hours soaking in a wood fire heated outdoor spa in the privacy of your own room, while catching up on the latest episode of Corrie? Then look no further than The Pigs and book into one of their new seven spa rooms that feature a host of facilities including drench showers, private gardens, massage benches and saunas. Yes, please!

If you manage to book in an overnight stay (which we highly recommend), you will also be treated to The Pig’s famous 15 mile breakfast.

Using the freshest local produce, this Norfolk hotel and spa gets our vote for food, relaxation and ambiance – and, being dog-friendly, you can also pack the pooch!

The Ickworth Hotel, Suffolk Horringer, Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5QE Tel: 01284735350 | www.ickworthhotel.co.uk Situated in 1,800 acres of National Trust Gardens in the Suffolk countryside, this is one of the ultimate destinations to enjoy some relaxing time away.

Enjoy a facial, massage or body scrubs and make use of the stunning indoor pool. We recommend the Hot Mineral Body Boost, as this treatment stimulates every cell in the body, helping alleviate muscular pain and remove toxins.

After all of that relaxing, you can then enjoy some of the freshest seasonal produce in the region from their restaurant, picked from their walled garden. eastlife.co.uk | 21

DAYS OUT

Discovering Newmarket Words courtesy of Visit Suffolk When you hear ‘let’s go to Newmarket’, do you immediately think ‘let’s go racing’? If your answer is yes, you could certainly be forgiven, however, there is a whole lot more to Newmarket than just the racecourse. We take a closer look at all this fascinating town has to offer.

Saturday 9.00am - Experience the Unique Ever since the 1600s when King Charles II selected Newmarket Heath as a perfect site to pursue his sporting interests, this most famous of areas has been used for the training of the thoroughbred racehorse. Fast forward to the present day and there are now over 80 trainers, and 2,500 thoroughbreds using these training grounds on a regular basis.

This makes for a truly remarkable sight each morning when strings of racehorses emerge from the most unexpected nooks throughout the town centre to ride out on The Heath.

There is no better way to experience this occurrence than with a tour from Discover Newmarket. As the tourism hub for the town, Discover Newmarket offers exclusive access to these legendary training grounds to observe world-class horses.

The National Stud in Newmarket is the only thoroughbred stud farm in the UK 11:30am - Discover the History Being built on the site of King Charles II’s 17th Century palace, The National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art has Newmarket’s history in its very foundations. It rolls three fantastic attractions into one: Palace House - a gallery housing one of the world’s finest collections of sporting art; The National Horseracing Museum – fully updated and featuring state-of-the-art interactive exhibitions; and, The Rothschild Yard – the flagship yard for the Retraining of Racehorses charity which offers thoroughbreds a lease of life after racing.

10am - Explore the Industry

1pm - Feel the Thrill

Following this, your expert Discover Newmarket guide can take you exclusively behind the scenes at one of these famous trainers’ yards to find out what it takes to create a champion.

You will hear from the people responsible for taking care of these finely-tuned racing machines, learning all about the private lives of some of the world’s fastest horses. If you’re really lucky, maybe you’ll even get an inside tip from the experts!

Now it’s time to feel the thrill of the races! A race meeting is the culmination of years of planning, nurturing, training and dedication and it all climaxes in an explosion of excitement, determination and power as both jockey and horse push themselves to the limits of their capabilities.

And it’s not just the racing that you’ve got to look forward to. Spectacular fashion, delicious food and top-class live music is in abundance

22 | eastlife.co.uk

DAYS OUT

Palace House has a gallery housing one of the world’s finest collections of equine art throughout the season, while family-friendly enclosures keep the kids entertained!

6pm - Taste the Flavours of Suffolk All the excitement of the races is hungry work, so it’s time to settle down at one of Newmarket’s fantastic restaurants to reflect on the day’s action. Whether it’s a no-nonsense juicy burger or a fine dining experience, there is something to suit you in the town.

Discover Newmarket works with a variety of restaurants all offering a fantastic menu full of tasty dishes that make the most of the quality local produce for which Suffolk is renowned.

9pm - Enjoy the Comfort You’ll be pleased to hear that there is a range of fantastic accommodation in Newmarket to suit all tastes and budgets. From simple comfort, to boutique charm, all the way up to opulent luxury, they all have one thing in common: a great night’s sleep!

Sunday 11am - Meet the Next Generation The National Stud is based in Newmarket and is the only thoroughbred stud farm in the UK to allow members of the public behind the scenes. This 90-minute tour explores the wonderful 500-acre site, taking in the rich history of this beautiful place. Depending on the time of year, you will see mares, foals, yearlings and stallions.

Plan your Trip Whether you do all of the above, or just part of it, one thing’s for sure: Newmarket offers a huge amount more than just an afternoon at the races. If you’d like to make a weekend out of your trip, get in touch with Discover Newmarket today to start planning on 0344 748 9200, admin@discovernewmarket.co.uk or www.discovernewmarket.co.uk To browse more things to do and see in Suffolk, go to www.visitsuffolk.com eastlife.co.uk | 23

James Ward

Animal Painter

James Ward, L'Amour de Cheval, 1827 - © Tate, London 2018

A rare chance to see a rich display of works by animal painter James Ward.

The exhibition explores special characteristics of Ward’s works, including his focus on the emotional drama of his subject. With loans from The Fitzwilliam Museum, Tate and British Museum this exhibition is not to be missed.

Opening Times 4th May – 28th October 2018 Daily 10am - 5pm Save money and time - BOOK ONLINE

Flower Festival

Location

21 – 24 June 2018

Entry included in admission price.

National Heritage Centre, Palace House, Palace Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8EP T: 01638 667314

palacehousenewmarket.co.uk

Charity No. 283656

Kaleidoscope of Life

Box Office: 01353 660349 www.elycathedral.org Follow us on Over 50,000 Blooms • 100 Creative Displays Gift & Craft Marquee • Music Recitals • Demonstrations

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FOOD AND DRINK

A taste of the countryside Written by Amanda French (www.anoseforfood.com) Tuck in at one of these great foodie events With some of the best locally produced food and drink products in the country and a host of great chefs and restaurants, there are unsurprisingly plenty of foodie events coming up over the next few months in the region. Here we’ve rounded up a few of our favourites.

The Birds of Prey Centre in Bedfordshire will be hosting their Food & Garden Festival on 2122 April to celebrate the best of seasonal spring produce.

As well as plenty for the avid gardener and ferocious foodie, this year sees the arrival of a craft fair for the first time, showcasing plenty of gifts and treats.

Why not pop into the Birds of Prey Centre and activity farm at the same time? Find out more at www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk 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 4 to 7 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 British Town Criers’ Championships and the World Eel (toy) Throwing Competition.

26 | eastlife.co.uk

Rounding up the weekend is the ever popular two day Food and Drink Festival now in its fifth year. Over 75 artisan and specialist food and drink traders will be showcasing their wares. There’s a great Street Food Scene, plus beer tent and cocktail bar with some easy listening, live music to enjoy. Back on St Mary’s Green is the Kitchen Pantry with a selection of goodies to help stock your pantry and this year’s Cookery Theatre will host celebrity haute cuisine teacher, Rosemary Shrager and the original TV Chef, Brian Turner who will be demonstrating a variety of dishes alongside some of our much loved local chefs. For the full Ely Eel Festival programme see www.elyeelfestival.co.uk The World Food Festival, a celebration of cuisine from around the world, kicks off on Saturday 12 May in Welwyn Garden City. There’ll be plenty of food to try and buy as well as a cookery demonstration stage and live entertainment for the whole family. Find more at www.welwyngarden.co.uk Chelmsford City Racecourse will be playing host to the Essex Fine Food Show on 12 and 13 May. Featuring James Martin and John Torode cooking live, this is a real one for the foodies out there. There will also be some demonstrations from top local chefs including Mick Binnington from The Windmill in Chatham Green, Adam Townsend from The New London in Chelmsford and local master butcher, David Innes. As always, there’ll also be plenty of food to try and buy and of course, live entertainment too. Find out more at: www.2018essexfinefoodshow.apteventspro.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK stalls, stands, funky vans and more selling delicious food and pop into St Peter’s Church to explore over 30 of the finest small-scale artisan producers. Find out more at the website tasteofsudbury.co.uk

Rosemary Shrager will be taking part in a Cookery Theatre in Ely The annual Eat Cambridge Festival returns on 19 May with a huge foodie fair, followed by two weeks of foodie events. The festival celebrates Cambridgeshire’s delicious independent food scene. Highlights include pop-ups and supper clubs, food and wine tastings, cookery lessons, chef talks and demos alongside plenty of other things to tickle your tastebuds.

Find out more at www.eat-cambridge.co.uk

The ever-popular Cambridgeshire Food Festival returns to Peterborough on 23 and 24 June. Tickets sell out for this hotly anticipated event, so snap them up now. There’ll be plenty of great food and drink to sample and buy, plus amazing cookery demonstrations, free activities and more, including dancing. There are also camping tickets available for the whole weekend. This really is a weekend of foodie fun to remember. Find out more at: www.cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk There’s foodie fun everywhere in the region this season. Check out EastLife magazine online at www.eastlife.co.uk to find out about more events in your area.

Cromer and Sheringham are partnering up again this year for their annual Crab & Lobster Festival, celebrating the best of Norfolk’s catch, over the weekend of the 19 and 20 May. Enjoy a seaside variety concert at the Famous Pier Pavilion in Cromer, enjoy plenty of crab and lobster, watch cookery demonstrations and enjoy some of Norfolk’s finest food and drink. There’s also a crabbing and crab sandwich competition for those of you who enjoy a bit of healthy competition. Visit the website www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk for more.

Sunday 20 May also sees the Taste of Sudbury return for it’s 6th annual event. Enjoy watching some of Suffolk’s best foodie talent in cookery demonstrations, tuck into great Suffolk produce on Market Hill as it is filled with

Cromer and Sheringham will once again be hosting the Crab & Lobster Festival

eastlife.co.uk | 27

Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B

On board historic sailing ship Albatros, The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AT Traditional DUTCH CUISINE including our famous DUTCH PANCAKES, PEA SOUP and APPLE CAKE Chef’s DAILY SPECIALS MENU with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Fully LICENSED BAR serving the best choice of local REAL ALES from cask Listed in The CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE since 2010 Speciality LODGING/B&B in the former CREW CABINS LIVE MUSIC every weekend OPEN daily for LUNCH and DINNER from 12 noon

The Lady Rothschild Holiday Houses

Spectacular self-catering holiday houses located on the famous Ashton Estate nr. Oundle surrounded by wildflower meadows, rolling farmland and magical woodlands. The houses are finished with an emphasis on quality, in a style that is both comfortable and elegantly modern.

Perfect for family get-togethers, celebrations, wedding groups and short breaks.

The Constable House – Sleeps max.12 The Turner House – Sleeps max. 10 The Gainsborough House – Sleeps max. 8 Newmarket Rooms – Sleeps max. 4 Morland Manor – Sleeps max. 10

www.ashtonestatecountryholidays.co.uk estateoffice@ashton.ohllimited.com Tel: 01832 272264 @rothschildholidayhouses

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN For more details visit www.albatroswells.co.uk

For Enquiries

07979 087228 The King’s Head - Ivinghoe

An appealing mix of oak beams, log fires, antique furniture and fresh flowers sets the scene in the bars, fine dining restaurant, coffee lounge and Banqueting Suite where the marks of history are firmly stamped.

The dining room comfortable seats 60 in comfort and offers an a la carte menu at luncheon and dinner, additionally the Bon Appetit menu at luncheon (Monday to Saturday only) offers exceptional value.

01296 668388

Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 9EB reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk

www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

Grape Expectations...

Raise a glass to English Wine Week We don’t often need an excuse to pour ourselves a glass of wine, but with English Wine Week taking place 26 May to 3 June, there has never been a better reason to do so. We know that our region serves up some of the best meat and seafood around, but did you know nestled among the countryside the region’s vineyards are rustling up wines that rival those in Europe?

“East Anglia is fast gaining a reputation for its ability to ripen grapes and the most prominent variety, Bacchus, which produces aromatic white wines similar in style to a New Zealand Sauvignon blanc, is becoming recognised on a world stage,” explains Ben Witchell, owner of Flint Vineyard in Earsham.

He and his wife Hannah moved to Norfolk from Beaujolais in 2015 where Ben had been working as a winemaker, to begin their new venture in partnership with local farmer Adri-

an Hipwell. Thanks to the sheltered and sunny slopes of the Waveney Valley the vineyard is producing one of the best Bacchus in the region.

But don’t just take our word for it, try it for yourself. If you’re looking for a day out or to try something new this summer, here are our picks of vineyard tours: Vineyard tours Flint Vineyard Camphill Farm, Middle Rd, Earsham, Bungay NR35 2AH Flint Vineyard offers two-hour tours of the vineyard and winery. From 1 April to 30 September, every Saturday at 10am and 2pm, Ben and Hannah invite you to join them as they personally guide you through the vineyard and winery, explaining first-hand the detail of growing vines and making wine. The tour will continue in the newly renovated tasting room eastlife.co.uk | 29

A superb selection of special self-castering holiday properties in North Norfolk, ranging from Romantic HIdeaways to Luxurious Barn Conversions with Coastal Views 01263 741777 bookings@blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk www.blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk, NR25 7AL fll

FOOD AND DRINK with a tutored tasting of Flint Vineyard’s first wines. Booking is essential. Gift vouchers are also available. For special offers during English Wine Week visit the website. www.flintvineyard.com Valley Farm Vineyards Rumburgh Road, Wissett, Halesworth IP19 0JJ The eight acre vineyard offers three types of tours. The self-guided tour for just £7.50 per person where you’ll be able to follow the marked route and finish with generous tasting of one of the wines. The Private Tutored Tour and Wine Tasting Experience for groups is conducted exclusively by one of the co-owners and tailored to the interests of the group, finishing with wine tasting, while the Public Tour and Taste Session is scheduled to take place on the first Saturday of the month. This is an opportunity for couples and small groups to book in for a tutored tour and tasting session with the co-owners. www.valleyfarmvineyards.co.uk Chilford Hall Balsham Rd, Cambridge CB21 4LE Perhaps one of the most popular vineyards in the East, tours take place every Friday to Sunday until end of September, and Thursdays from June. Tours must be booked in advance.

There are three tours available including lunch with tour & tasting, afternoon tea with tour & tasting and tour & tasting. www.chilfordhall.co.uk West Street Vineyard West St, Coggeshall, Colchester CO6 1NB A boutique micro-vineyard set in beautiful countryside, the vineyard features a wine school where you can take an introduction to wine workshop and for groups of two or more a vineyard walk and wine tasting.

If you’re looking to soak up pretty scenery stop by for lunch at the Wine Barn’s Café restaurant, which includes a wine wall for automated tasting to showcase wines from East Anglia and over 20 English varieties. www.weststreetvineyard.co.uk

Giffords Hall Hartest, Bury St Edmunds IP29 4EX Located in the pretty village of Hartest, visitors can choose from three different tours including a guided tour, cheese tasting and the premium tour which features the vineyard’s sparkling wine. Stop by the Vineyard Shop to stock up on award-winning English wines, liqueurs and hampers. www.giffordshall.co.uk Shawsgate Vineyard Badingham Rd, Woodbridge IP13 9HZ One of the oldest commercial vineyards in East Anglia, it produces white, red, rose and sparkling wines. There are two tours available. One features a tasting, while the other includes the addition of lunch. www.shawsgate.co.uk Norfolk & Essex Wine School Impress your next dinner guests with knowledge of wine by enrolling at the Norfolk Wine School; an independent wine education company which hosts tastings and wine courses across Norfolk. There’s a range of courses to suit all requirements from an introduction to wine to more in-depth and themed tastings.

Courses take place at The Library Restaurant in Norwich, while tastings and events are often held at St Andrews Brewhouse, Norwich. A range of courses including tastings and confidence in buying wine are also available at the Essex Wine School with classes taking place in Chelmsford, Leigh on Sea and Colchester. www.norfolkwineschool.com | www.essexwineschool.com eastlife.co.uk | 31

FOOD AND DRINK

Dogs are welcome at The Embankment, Bedford

Pubs that welcome dogs It’s nice to have your four-legged friend in tow especially on a sunny afternoon that calls for a stop in a pub garden. Take a look at our top picks for dog friendly pubs for wherever you are in the region…

The King’s Head, Woodbridge 17 Market Hill, Woodbridge IP12 4LP After a long walk along the river, quench your thirst at the super dog-friendly King’s Head on Market Hill. Pick a table outside and people watch while you enjoy a refreshing drink and your dog chomps down on one of the treats from their ‘Mutt’s Menu’ such as cow ear, doggy sausage and honey dried pig snout for just £1 per item. www.kingsheadwoodbridge.co.uk/mutt-s-menu-1 The Cowper Arms, Letty Green 57 Cole Green Lane, Letty Green, Hertford, SG14 2NL Set in the pretty village of Letty Green, on the 32 | eastlife.co.uk

outskirts of Hertford, the pub offers a biscuit bar for dogs and a good choice of food for humans too! Choose a spot in the quiet and enclosed garden on a nice sunny day. Nearby is The Cole Green Way and the Hertford to Ware Towpath. An old railway line, with streams and plenty of shade, it’s popular with dog walkers and is a great way of working up an appetite before your trip to the pub. Don’t leave without trying the melting golden chocolate orange bomb for dessert! www.thecowperarmscolegreen.co.uk The Orange Tree, Thornham High Street, Thornham, PE36 6LY After a long walk and splash in the sea at either Brancaster Bay, Thornham Beach or Brancaster Staithe harbour, rest your feet and let your dog dry off at this stylish gastropub.

Dogs are welcome inside and out and it even has its own doggy menu! www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

The Embankment in Bedford is located opposite the River Ouse and welcomes dogs The Embankment, Bedford 6 The Embankment, Bedford MK40 3PD Located directly opposite the River Ouse, owners and their dogs can enjoy a long walk along the river before relaxing on the outside terrace with a refreshing summer cocktail.

Dogs are treated to fresh water and biscuits.

Don’t worry if the weather takes a turn for the worse, dogs are also welcome inside! www.embankmentbedford.co.uk The Chequers, Goldhanger The Square, Goldhanger, Essex, CM9 8AS Located in the charming village of Goldhanger, near Maldon, on the River Blackwater in Essex, is a warm and welcoming pub.

It’s ideal for dog owners as you’ll find plenty of walks nearby along the Blackwater Estuary and surrounding area. After a nice long walk

Doggy menu at The Orange Tree return with your pooch to quench your thirst or enjoy a bite to eat.

There’s a sunny patio, the perfect place to relax and dogs are also allowed inside at three of the bar areas. www.thechequersgoldhanger.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 33

Furniture and everything to go with it...

Strive For Design specialise in unique home accessories from wallpaper, fabrics, furniture, lighting, mirrors, candles, hurricane lamps, 3D art and glassware.

With our own bespoke kitchen and bathroom cabinet/ sanitary ware manufacturers we can offer a truly unique design service.

We also offer a design service for residential and commercial properties using our in house contractors for all new build and renovations.

The Annexe, Long Cottage, Fordham Road Newmarket CB8 7AA Tel: 01638 592800 Email: info@strivefordesign.co.uk @strivefordesign Strive For Design

FOOD AND DRINK

Mini raspberry and chocolate pavlovas Vegetarian Gluten Free Fairtrade Preparation time:25 minutes Cooking time:1 hour, plus cooling Total time:1 hour 25 minutes, plus cooling Makes: 6 Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

3 large Waitrose British Blacktail Free Range Egg whites Few drops lemon juice 150g Fairtrade caster sugar 75g Fairtrade 70% dark chocolate, melted 1 tbsp Fairtrade icing sugar ¼ tsp vanilla bean paste 150ml extra thick double cream 200g Waitrose 1 Speciality Raspberries Fairtrade cocoa powder, for dusting

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 140°C, gas mark 1; line a large baking tray with parchment. Using electric beaters, whisk the egg whites in a bowl with a pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice to stiff peaks.

2. Scatter over 3 tbsp sugar and beat until stiff and glossy, then beat in the remaining sugar 3 tbsp at a time.

3. Very lightly swirl the melted chocolate through the meringue until just marbled, then spoon 6 equal heaped circles onto the baking parchment. Using the back of a spoon, make a deep well in the centre of each meringue. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven, open the door a little and allow to cool for 1 hour.

4. Gently stir the icing sugar and vanilla into the cream (whisking it gently to soft peaks if necessary). Spoon onto the cooled meringues, then scatter over the raspberries. Dust with cocoa to serve.

Cook’s tip Adding the lemon juice and salt to the egg whites helps to stabilise them before whisking.

Love to cook? Discover hundreds of recipes at www.waitrose.com/recipes eastlife.co.uk | 35

visit our website

highlodge.co.uk see what else we

do

A Unique Venue Situated in 120 acres of woodland and delightful countryside High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities, for all the family to enjoy including relaxing short breaks and good food in our modern cafĂŠ.

Clay Shooting | Weddings | Luxury Lodge Accommodation | Golf The Sunday Carvery | Corporate Events | Celebrations | Footgolf Feel free to visit the website for more information, alternatively pop down to see us.

We are located just off the A12 near Blythburgh, not far from Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3QT.

Every Sunday 12 - 2.30pm

01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk | info@highlodge.co.uk High Lodge Leisure Ltd

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TRAVEL

Discover Suffolk’s Secrets Whether it’s hitting the beach, reconnecting with nature or soaking up culture and scenery, the Suffolk Coast has plenty to offer. It has its famous hotspots – Southwold, Aldeburgh and so on – and they’re all well worth a visit, but if you want to avoid the crowds there are many other attractions and perhaps less well-known gems, along this short but beautiful stretch of coastline. We asked the team at Suffolk Hideaways to give away a few of their Suffolk secrets…

Dunwich The tiny village is the place to go for anyone searching for peace and tranquillity, wildlife and walking. After a day trekking through its scenic beauty stop off at The Ship for delicious fish and chips and a few pints of real ale.

Kessingland Boasting a long history, Kessingland is a large village just south of Lowestoft. The beautiful beach is much less commercial than others you may find; its quiet atmosphere and serene setting also means there’s an abundance of wildlife.

Lowestoft Suffolk’s most easterly town, a favourite day destination for families from all over the coun-

Queueing for the ferry at Walberswick, Suffolk credit: www.visitsuffolk.com try, and the first place you’ll see the sunrise in the UK. Visit the pretty marina, catch some rays on the beautiful Blue-Flag beach or meander your way along the Victorian promenade to Pakefield, a delightful nearby village where you’ll find clifftop restaurants, charming cafés and wonderful sea views.

Walberswick Walberswick sits at the mouth of the River Blyth, just a mile from Southwold but much, much, quieter. Untamed and wild, Walberswick’s beach has a special charm: a jumbled mix of sand and shingle flanked by grassy sand eastlife.co.uk | 37

TRAVEL dunes and almost completely surrounded by marsh and heathland.

pushchairs across the River Blyth to and from the Walberswick and Southwold banks.

Thorpeness Half holiday village, half architectural fantasy, Thorpeness boasts a golf course, a chic art deco hotel and restaurant and other attractions, the whole place centred around the Meare – an artificially created boating lake covering three acres. Tiny islands on the Meare contain locations found in J M Barrie’s Peter Pan, such as the Pirates’ Lair, Wendy’s Home and many others – which children are encouraged to play on.

Suffolk Coast Path Stretching from Lowestoft to Felixstowe, the Suffolk Coast Path passes through the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which includes wildlife-rich wetlands, ancient heaths, shingle beaches and historic towns and villages. You can walk through Bawdsey, Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, North Warren, Thorpeness, Minsmere, Dunwich Forest, Southwold and Kessingland. Highlights on the route include the section around Leiston where you will pass the delightful Minsmere Nature Reserve: one of the UK’s premier birdwatching sites.

Ferry services Suffolk is a low-lying county, crisscrossed by waterways – and as you might expect, by the time the county’s rivers approach the open sea, the estuaries are often very wide. But a number of ‘foot ferry’ services were established to help people and goods to get about the place – and four remain in service to this day.

The Harwich Foot & Cycle Ferry crosses the Stour and Orwell Estuaries daily between April and October, calling at Shotley and Felixstowe.

Running between Felixstowe and Bawdsey Quay, at the mouth of the River Deben, the Bawdsey Ferry operates daily from early May through to the end of September, and weekends only until end-October.

Fancy a romantic break for two or family holiday in Suffolk? Suffolk Hideaways have a growing selection of cottages throughout this glorious county. Find your perfect home away from home at www.suffolkhideaways.co.uk

Butley Ferry The most venerable of the lot, the Butley Ferry started in the 16th Century, making it one of the oldest ferry services. Steeped in history and atmosphere, the ferry – staffed entirely by oar-wielding volunteers who still wear broadbrimmed farm worker’s hats, just as their forebears did – transports cyclists and walkers over Butley Creek, from Easter Saturday until the last Sunday in October.

Walberswick Ferry For a small charge a traditional rowing boat – based on the Suffolk punt design – can ferry adults, children, dogs, bicycles, buggies and

Snape Maltings through “Family Of Man” statue credit: www.visitsuffolk.com

eastlife.co.uk | 39

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre

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One step away from your holiday‌..

TRAVEL

Milling about: Cley Windmill

A Great British Break Written by Emma Kemsley Warning! You’re going to want to book a trip to Norfolk by the end of this article. Discover the very best of this fine county…

It’s official, Norfolk is no longer a well kept secret. Everybody wants a part of this little corner of the UK, and why not? It’s bold, beautiful and offers everything you could want from a short break.

A study by Virgin Holidays recently revealed that foodie experiences, whale watching, museums and art galleries and wine tasting are the top five things we most want to do on holiday. Swap whales for seals (though you may spot one if you’re lucky), and Norfolk ticks all of the boxes. No longer just for families with

their buckets and spades, Norfolk is having a moment; its tourism economy is now estimated at more than £3billion. With its farm to fork initiatives and luxury accommodation, it’s clear to see why it featured in The Guardian’s 2018 travel hotlist!

Thanks to this new flourish of tourism, Norfolk’s property market has gone from strength to strength with a demand for second homes and holiday rentals. No stranger to Norfolk’s charm, I wanted to see what was captivating the rest of the UK so I packed my bags and headed to the North Norfolk coast.

A place to stay There’s no shortage of accommodation in Norfolk, perhaps that’s one of its main appeals. Whether you’re travelling on your own, eastlife.co.uk | 41

TRAVEL as a couple, family or group of friends, there’s Road trip something to suit all requirements and budgMake the most of a weekend in North Norets. For my base on the coast I chose David’s folk with a duel stay along the coast. After Barn, a luxury two bed barn in Langham, a a two night stay in Langham, I swapped my short distance from Blakeney. luxury barn for the heights of Cley WindFull of character and charm, the spacious mill. A non-profit organisation, the windmill home was ideal for my husband and I and features eight bed and breakfast rooms, six our two friends who joined us, plus our dogs inside the mill and two outside. I stayed in who needless to say enjoyed the lovely beach the cosy dog-friendly self-catering Dovecote walks. The open plan kitchen and living area Cottage, opposite the mill. For something a made cooking and socialising enjoyable, cold little different choose the Wheel Room which evenings were spent sipping wine in front of has a ladder entrance – warning though, it gets the fire and laughing with friends. It’s an ideal booked up fast! location for exploring the nearby coastal towns Cley Windmill is the perfect base for those of Blakeney and Cley-next-the-Sea. looking to enjoy long walks along the waters A good local welcoming pub is just a two edge or experience the classic charms of a true minutes walk away.

Norfolk coastal vilWith its cobbled lage. From the windexterior, high ceiling, David’s Barn, sleeps 4 people in 2 bedrooms mill wander through beams and modern and allows up to two dogs. the cobbled alleyways features, the property Price: From £775 per week or £581 for a 3 to the village centre delivered everything I night short break. where you’ll find an wanted for the idyllic SALT, www.saltnorfolk.co.uk antique store, bookNorfolk getaway I had T. 01328 887600 shop, the Pinkfoot envisioned – I really Gallery, pottery shop didn’t want to leave!

Cley Windmill, Cley-next-the-Sea, Holt, Made in Cley and of This is just one of Norfolk NR25 7RP course the famous the many properties Price: prices from £159 per night Cley Smokehouse. available at one of www.cleywindmill.co.uk | T: 01263 740209 When hunger the country’s newest strikes head back to luxury holiday rental the windmill for a agencies; SALT, which specialises in boutique feast at its restaurant. The evening set menu retreats along the coast and up to five miles (priced £32.50) changes daily using the best of inland. local produce where possible. Reservations are However, it’s not just beautiful converted also open to non-guests. barns which makes Norfolk top of the accommodation list. Dotted along the coastline you Tuck in can find yourself living like a Lord or Lady with It’s Norfolk’s fine produce that makes the a night in a manor house or detoxing at a yoga county a foodie’s paradise. In a time where we retreat. There’s plenty of quirky rentals with a are becoming more inquisitive about where story to tell such as the Hippisely Hut in Old our food comes from we praise restaurants Hunstanton, the birthplace of wireless interthat focus on using fresh local ingredients. ception during World War I or The Control And it comes no fresher than in Norfolk. The Tower; a former RAF tower but now a quirky coastal and country location means you won’t art décor inspired vegetarian bed and breakfast have to travel far to find seasonal seafood or just three miles from Wells-next-the-Sea. produce. During our visit we tucked into oysters, mussels and a seafood platter at Season’s 42 | eastlife.co.uk

TRAVEL

Welcoming: This luxury two bed barn in Langham is called David’s Barn

in Wells-next-the-Sea; a rustic style sea front restaurant.

It was quite easy to eat and drink my way along the coastline. I sampled local gins (Black Shuck Gin being my favourite) at a number of pub stops. Make sure a visit to the King’s Head in Letheringsett is on your list. Cosy corners, soft buttery leather arm chairs and an impressive selection of local alcohol made it the perfect pub! The Vogue covered wallpaper in the toilets was a nice touch too!

Burnham Market served up tea and cake and I spied the new opening of No. Twenty 9 Bar and Restaurant, on the main green. New to the village’s food scene this spring is Socius.

The restaurant has opened its doors at one of the Foundry Place retail units. Co-owners Dan Lawrence and Natalie Stuhler have taken their years of catering experience to create a restaurant which will be a foodie experience. The open kitchen will allow diners to watch preparation, before tucking into locally sourced produce which will change with the seasons. Socius will offer both main meals as well as a modern version of British tapas.

Operations director Natalie said: “People are happy to travel for food. Norfolk has become a foodie hub.”

I couldn’t agree more. Norfolk has something to suit all tastes. From Sunday lunches at a country pub and Cromer’s crab (try cooking your own on a hot stone at Hot Rocks) to fancy coffee at stylish bistros and fine dining options – what’s not to love! For those self-catering or looking to take a piece of Norfolk home, stop

by Gurneys Fish Shop in Burnham Market or Back to the Garden in Holt.

We Love Norfolk It’s not just the five-star accommodation and some of the best food in the UK that makes this part of East Anglia a tourist hotspot.

Throw into the mix the option of water sports such as paddle boarding and surfing, wildlife tours, art galleries and wine tasting and you can see why there’s no need to jet off to European shores. That’s the beauty of this fine county, it appeals to all. Whether you’re seeking adventure, have a family to entertain or want to enjoy a Champagne and oyster lifestyle, it’s waiting in Norfolk!

With the possibility of bumping into famous faces and maybe even royalty (I celeb spotted a very well-known radio and television presenter), there’s never been a better time for a spontaneous trip! eastlife.co.uk | 43

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TRAVEL

Dramatic: the strong winds make Fuerteventura a windswept paradise

The windy wilderness that is Fuerteventura Written by Adam Jacot de Boinod It was perfect for my needs: some guaranteed winter sun, some fun landscape to drive through, a boat ride out to a deserted island and wonderful long walks on sandy white beaches.

The wind is regular and unrelenting (apart from in September when it lulls). But there’s also proper heat, not just warmth. With only a week to have a break you don’t want to fly for eight hours or suffer jet lag. It takes only four

hours from London to Puerto del Rosario the capital and airport of Fuerteventura.

You must pack layers. Jumpers and shawls.

Sun hats and woolly hats. It’s a little warmer in the south but by the afternoon the clouds appear and their obstruction of the sun makes for some cooler interludes.

Throughout the island there’s a fabulous sense of expanse both from the small population and the wide landscape.

It’s a great place to get a sense of real desert, of the Sahara even (which is on the same pareastlife.co.uk | 45

TRAVEL allel) as camels lope in their strides across the road. And then there’s the cacti with their own distinctive shapes and character.

Despite the volcanic nature that you get on all the Canary islands, on Fuerteventura I discovered long strands of white sand on beaches devoid of any jagged rock formations or black lava. Perfect for walking as the odd naturist also thought. The Playa de Butihondo north of Morro Jable has a wonderful stretch, as does the Playa de Sotavento just south of Costa Calma.

I strongly recommend hiring a car. It’s easily done, on arrival, at the airport. The open roads are a joy to drive. The traffic is minimal, the directions inevitably simple on the few The landscapes are spectacular formal routes across the island. It’s ideal for older drivers as the roads are so quiet. And very inspiring as you pass dunes and shapely the south there are barbary ground squirrels hills. Buggies and jeeps are the best and most and goats that scavenge a meal from the meanfun way to get about. There’s no pollution, no est terrain. trash and lots of options for cyclists.

I stayed first at the Gran Hotel Atlantis For culture seekers there’s Vallebrón, a ham- Bahia Real (www.atlantisbahiareal.com). It’s let of a hundred or so set on a white-sand inhabitants located beach bordering the south of the quiet, Adam had support from chepstowcars.com, Corralejo dunes and administrative centre gatwickexpress.com and prioritypass.com looks across at the that is La Oliva. It’s Isla de Lobos and set in a broad shaped Classic Collection Holidays (0800 047 Lanzarote beyond.

1064; classic-collection.co.uk) offers a two valley “U” sandwiched My room was right centre holiday of 3 nights at Gran Hotel Atbetween two mounon the beachfront. lantis Bahia Real on a bed & breakfast and tainous headlands.

Birds flitter around 3 nights at Occidental Jandia Royal Level And then there’s the tropical garden Suite on an all inclusive basis from £1279 Betancuria, the set within the interior per person. Price based on 2 adults sharing former capital that courtyards and patios and includes return flights from London retains a real sense that surround the Gatwick to Fuerteventura (flights available of history with her swimming pools. It’s from up to 16 UK airports) and all private ancient doorways and special to be able to transfers. Departing April 2018.

17th century church. walk straight out, El Cotillo is a past the hotel beach surfing town full of and onto the dunes. cool bars and restaurants for the dude comThe hotel has its bellboys resplendent in munity and the special restaurant is Vaca Azul. semi-Alpine uniforms with red waistcoats and Golfers also come from afar for their one spot black felt hats. At the Spanish gourmet ‘Las of greenery.

Columnas’ they certainly push the boat out!

As for wildlife, there are noticeably few dogs I enjoyed some pumpkin cream soup and a or cats. In the north there are seabirds and in piquillo pepper filled with seafood.

46 | eastlife.co.uk

TRAVEL

Traditional: there are colourful local festivals to witness Corralejo is a town half for tourists (and many Brits find it reassuringly familiar with their shops and bars) and half for locals as it retains its fishing village atmosphere. The island is totally safe both for old and young alike.

I took one of the many boats and ferries at the town’s harbour across the twenty minute ride to Isla de Lobos. Here there’s one guitar-playing man called Elias and his wife who live there the whole year round though there are ten guest houses. Ramshackle but authentic. Perhaps for the more hardy. Here there is the typical black lunar landscape. It’s a great and safe two hour walk to go round it all, including the lighthouse, and a further hour if you want to climb the volcanic peak.

At the hotel’s Coco Beach Bar I loved the sensation of being surrounded by the waves that span and lapped around me. I sampled a Canarian staple, namely ‘papas arrugadas’, wrinkled potatoes that come with their ‘mojo’ sauces of garlic, chili peppers, cumin, paprika and vinegar.

And I was lucky enough to stay next at the

Occidental Jandia Royal Level Suite (www. barcelo.com/en-gb/hotels/spain/canary-islands/ fuerteventura/occidental-jandia-royal-level). My room was set on a hillside high above with a wonderfully panoramic view out over the long strand of beach. The hotel is fully functional and there’s definitely something for everyone.

Kids are given a variety of activities to enjoy while parents get a chance to unwind.

There’s certainly a strong British dimension.

Indeed there are more flights from the UK (with Norwegian Air, easyJet, Vuelling, Thomas Cook, Eurowings and British Airways to name a few) than there are from Spain herself. Germans too come for sun and favour the harsh terrain for walking and cycling. High season is July and August as well as Easter and Christmas. I strongly recommend Fuerteventura.

Adam Jacot de Boinod was a researcher for the first BBC television series QI, hosted by Stephen Fry. He wrote The Meaning of Tingo and Other Extraordinary Words from around the World, published by Penguin Books. eastlife.co.uk | 47

TRAVEL

Time to take to the skies!

Pack your bags and jet off to Europe and beyond this summer Here in East Anglia we’re blessed with sandy shores, culture and countryside, perfect for a staycation; Wells-next-the-Sea even featured on The Guardian’s 2018 travel hotlist, but Mother Nature doesn’t always play nice and we can’t guarantee sunshine.

If you’re thinking of heading to sunnier shores this summer, you’ll be pleased to hear the region’s airports are growing at a rapid rate, launching new routes across the globe...

Turkey Turkey is back on the map! Holidaymakers are returning to the destination’s most popular beach resorts. For an undiscovered gem head to Sarigerme, where the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet beneath a backdrop of mountains. Ideal for those looking for a quieter getaway, this remote location on the southwestern coast offers the very best of Turkey.

Treat your taste buds to tantalizing cuisine, marvel at ancient tombs, refresh and pamper at the mud baths and pick up a bargain at lively markets. It’s now easier to reach the destination as TUI have added flights to Dalaman to its summer programme from Norwich Airport.

The new flights start in May and will operate every Sunday. The new route is part of TUI’s plans to offer as much choice as possible, ensuring customers across the UK can fly from their local airport and stay at the best hotels TUI has to offer.

As well as flights to Dalaman, residents from in and around East Anglia can also choose a new route to Heraklion in Greece, which is already on sale. A seven night holiday, staying all-inclusive 5T TUI Sensatori Resort Creteby Atlantica costs from £880 per person departing from Norwich airport on 1 May 2018.

48 | eastlife.co.uk

Beautiful: Sardinia in the sunshine The Mediterranean The turquoise waters and sandy beaches of the Med draw in the crowds every year, and this summer there are new destinations to explore from the region’s airports. London Stansted is estimated to be the fastest growing London airport in 2018 with 10.8 million seats for summer, a 1.2 million extra seats on offer compared to summer 2017.

Discover the glittering beaches and bays of Corsica from Stansted as Air Corsica launches its twice weekly flights in May to Ajaccio and Bastia, departing on Thursdays and Sundays.

Existing carriers will also offer more destinations and increased capacity this summer including Ryanair’s new services to Rimini and Belfast plus Jet2.com’s new routes to Nice, Naples, Malta, Bodrum, Almeria, Thessaloniki, Kefalonia and Verona.

If you fancy diving into crystal clear waters, basking on the beach and dining on Mediterranean classics, such as fresh fish and pasta, book your flight to Malta, Sardinia and Sicily from London Southend Airport this summer.

Air Malta is one of the latest airlines to partner with the airport offering flights to all three countries from 4 May. There will be three

TRAVEL

History: An aerial view of Valletta, the ancient capital city of Malta flights a week to Malta, and direct flights two times a week to Catania, Sicily, and twice a week to Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia. Tickets are on sale now at www.airmalta.com, with prices starting from just £35.

The Middle East Venture further afield and experience the decadence of Dubai with a non-stop flight from London Stansted. For the first time Emirates will be offering travellers in the East of England the opportunity to fly to the jewel in the crown of the UAE. Launching on 8 June, the daily route will be operated by the airline’s new three-class Boeing 777-300ER offering customers six seats in First Class, 42 in Business Class and 306 in Economy Class. The aircraft is fitted with its game changing, fully enclosed private suites in First Class, as well as refreshed Business and Economy Class cabins.

The USA At last there’s no need to trek around the M25 to the likes of Heathrow and Gatwick for a

flight to the U.S as London Stansted have added new routes to New York, Boston, Washington and Toronto. Primera Air will fly five times a week from London Stansted to Washington Dulles from 22 August with prices starting from £199.

The low-cost airline, which starts flights from Stansted to New York in April and Boston and Toronto in May, is also increasing planned flight frequency to Toronto from August.

Thomas Cook will also begin to operate its long-haul programme to Orlando, Las Vegas and Cancun from July (in addition to re-commencing flights to Tunisia), meaning it’s now easier than ever before for residents in East Anglia to enjoy a holiday in the USA and beyond.

Ken O’ Toole, CEO of London Stansted said: “Through our ambitious route development and investment plans, and with more and more airlines recognising the great opportunity Stansted offers, the airport will make an even greater contribution to improving the UK’s connectivity with the rest of the world.” eastlife.co.uk | 49

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HOME AND GARDEN

Considering downsizing?

You may be considering downsizing but it’s a big decision. To help you plan for the future, Dr. Stephen Ladyman, former Minister for Health responsible for social care, shares his advice on how to take the next step into your retirement.

With the number of 85-year-olds in the UK expected to double by 2026, and the number of those currently approaching retirement age rising rapidly, planning for the future is becoming more and more pressing for many people and their families.

While information aimed at retirement planning can often be difficult to find, confusing and unclear, it is no secret that many older people come to a stage where they find themselves suddenly in a property which is simply too big for their needs.

A report for the Local Government Association previously estimated that older people occupy 3.3m homes that are now too big. If more older people downsized, this would free up their old property and so have a big impact on the current pressure on new build developments. In addition, a report for the Homes and Communities Agency estimated that, on average, a person downsizing into an extra-care property could save the public purse about £440 per year.

However, downsizing can also have personal benefits for individuals, not just on their finances, but it also offers both health and social benefits too. Living in an appropriately sized property can help people maintain their independence for longer and give them better access to essential services. In addition, if done in a timely fashion, before a person finds themselves struggling in their old property, the experience can be less stressful and the transition easier for the individual and their families.

While the prospect may be daunting, it’s best to bring up the subject of retirement

Moving into a smaller property can make life at an older age easier planning as soon as possible. Few people actually plan ahead for their retirement and I suspect even fewer discuss the options with their family. So, whether you are approaching retirement yourself or feel the need to broach the subject with a parent or family member, it’s best to bring it up as soon as possible and discuss it fully.

Nowhere is the need for better information more critical than housing. From retirement or assisted living, sheltered housing and extra care, these are all names given to different housing products so it’s no surprise that people find the market place confusing. But eastlife.co.uk | 51

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HOME AND GARDEN

it’s important to know that all these types of housing are very different to residential care homes; they are self-contained properties.

According to studies, most people who downsize into an ‘extra-care’ property, as recommended by the Department of Health, will never need to move to a care home.

Extra-care living offers its residents a better quality of life, allowing people to maintain their independence for longer with easy access to onsite flexible care that adapts to their changing needs. About 25 per cent of residents living in extra-care developments go on to experience health improvements and, on average, also spend less time in hospital than those living in standard retirement properties.

With loneliness among older people a growing issue, the easy access to communal facilities in an extra-care development can also help tackle depression – one of the biggest

causes of ill-health among older people.

A concern that often arises from downsizing is the preservation of a person’s capital.

In leasehold ‘extra-care’ developments, each resident owns the property they live in, which in turn enables them to protect their equity, safeguarding it for their families and loved ones.

Dr. Stephen Ladyman is also founder of Oak Retirement (www.oakretirement.co.uk), the team behind Hampshire’s new luxury retirement village, Friary Meadow.

eastlife.co.uk | 53

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HOME AND GARDEN

Spring de-cluttering tips Whether preparing for a move or just wanting to cut down on stuff, spring is the perfect time to declutter, get rid of the junk that is no longer used, needed, wanted or even remembered. A successful day of organising can also help clear the mind.

Buzzmove, the home moving and home insurance tech firm, have put together a list of top tips for decluttering both home and life, to help home owners and home movers clear up or clear out.

Declutter one room at a time This way you’ll see clear progress as you tackle and complete one task at time. It avoids getting overwhelmed.

Do not be constrained by someone else’s timeline Find the time that works for you, whether after work while watching a bit of TV, over the weekend, or a couple of hours here and there.

This way you’ll feel motivated to do more, not get burned out by the process.

Do not buy packing boxes before you’ve worked out what to keep Organise first, buy second. If your decluttering is effective, you may find you don’t need as many storage boxes as you first thought.

Do not hoard Be completely honest with yourself about what items you really need! Give things away either to someone you know, or to charity – you’ll feel better for it. Try freecycle!

Do not start a new task before finishing the last one Complete each task completely before moving on – once you have decided where something is going to go, take it there.

56 | eastlife.co.uk

Make space by de-cluttering Do not forget to ask yourself: does everything have a function?

Seriously, do you really need all those DVDs when you have subscriptions to more than one online TV and film streaming service? The same goes for all those CDs. Don’t forget the scanner is your friend Boxes of old photographs can be scanned and scored in a fraction of the space.

Don’t keep clothes you never wear Try the wardrobe hanger experiment. Turn around the hooks on all the hangers in your wardrobe. Once you wear an item, turn the

HOME AND GARDEN

There are plenty of responsible ways to get rid of the clutter in your life hanger back the other way. After a year, get rid of any clothes on hangers still hooked on the wrong way – you don’t need them.

Don’t forget to ask for another perspective Ask for help from a work colleague or friend – they should be able to give you an objective opinion on what they think you don’t need.

Don’t overlook the fact that you’re only keeping it because of nostalgia Why not take a photo of it instead, then you’ll feel better about giving something away.

Don’t forget to use your imagination Ask yourself: “If I was a buyer viewing this house now, would this piece of furniture put me off, or do all these items on the shelf minimise the space?”

Don’t think that once you’ve organised your space you’re done Recognise your new, efficient, and logical system for processing and managing incoming and outgoing items and keep it up.

Don’t go too far in search of perfection Good is good enough. Your home will never look like a catalogue because it is actually lived in. Take time to appreciate how far you’ve come.

If perfection is your goal then you will always be disappointed.

Don’t forget to simplify your personal life Decluttering your diary is essential for simplifying your life and giving yourself a bit of headspace. You can reduce your commitments and say no to non-essential things. eastlife.co.uk | 57

HOME AND GARDEN

Secrets of garden happiness From tiny succulents to mighty trees, plants can provide us with countless benefits and help to make people feel happier and healthier.

With happiness and health a key theme for Perrywood this year, the Essex garden centre takes a look at the top reasons we should get ‘potty about plants’.

Boosting endorphins Gardening and being around plants can be a form of therapy and is associated with positive emotions, self-esteem and hope. The process of planting and nurturing plants can give people a sense of purpose and once the plants are thriving, a sense of achievement too.

Even creating a hanging basket can do wonders for our mood, adding a splash of colour throughout spring and beyond. Nurturing and caring for a living thing ultimately helps us feel better in a deep and meaningful way.

Getting outside Many people are living increasingly sedentary lives and our reliance on technology means

that we’re often missing out on enjoying the great outdoors. Spending time in the garden gives us the chance to escape the TV, our smartphones and laptops.

A study by Mind in the UK showed that just five minutes working in a green environment (like your garden) reduces depression in 71% of participants. Nothing says happiness like a breath of fresh air after being stuck inside.

Physical benefits Working up a sweat in the garden is a fantastic way to get vital exercise without feeling like you’ve been put through your paces at the gym. Research suggests that one hour of weeding burns up to 300 calories, whilst 500 calories can disappear with just an hour behind a hand-push lawn mower. This combined with stretching and reaching movements can help improve balance and dexterity.

If you want to find out more about how plants can have a positive impact on our wellbeing visit Perrywood in store or go to www.perrywood.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 59

With permission of EDP - credit Simon Finley

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Lewis on life insurance When I meet a new parent, at my TV roadshows, they often ask me about saving for their children.

After congratulating them, and answering, I always ask if they’ve got life insurance. It is a crucial but often overlooked consideration.

Three types of life insurance Life insurance is an insurance policy you take out that’s designed to pay out a lump sum when you die. There are three main types of policies (other than investment plans): 1) Level term life insurance – this pays out a set amount if you die during a set time.

2) Mortgage decreasing-term life insurance – this aims to clear your mortgage. So as your mortgage debt drops so does the pay out.

3) Whole of life insurance – the policy is mainly about mitigating inheritance tax costs.

The cheapest, easy way to protect your family is level term life insurance With level term insurance you pay a monthly premium and it pays out a set amount if you die within a set period of time, for example £200,000 if you die within the next 20 years.

The more cover you get and the longer the term you want, the more you’ll pay.

A rule of thumb is cover 10 times the main breadwinners income The aim is to have enough cash to cover the lack of income if you’re gone. So if you’ve no partner or children who need the money don’t bother. If you do need cover, it’s important to consider the financial impact if you died.

Aim for a lump sum that’s enough to repay

Martin Lewis is the Founder of Money Saving Expert. To join the 11 million people who get his Martin’s Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip any outstanding debt (including a mortgage if you don’t have a separate policy), and provide for outgoings your dependants would have.

Slash £1,000s off the cost of insurance Beware going direct to an insurer, it’s a competitive market, you need to ensure you’re finding the cheapest.

Even comparison sites can be over-expensive. They may find you the cheapest policy, but they usually also take a huge whack of commission from the insurer.

If you don’t need advice, use a discount broker. Here you pay a fee of £25ish, but they rebate all the commission into your policy so it can be £1,000s cheaper. Discount brokers include www.cavendishonline.co.uk, www. moneyworld.com and www.money-minder.com, who will all price match if you find it cheaper elsewhere.

If you do need advice (and getting it right is important) use an advisory broker or Independent Financial Advisor. While they take the commission, at least they’re doing something for it. You can find an IFA at www.unbiased. co.uk and www.vouchedfor.co.uk, or big advisory brokers include www.lifesearch.co.uk and www.lifeassureonline.co.uk. eastlife.co.uk | 61

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CONSUMER

Saving for your retirement Jamie Smith-Thompson, managing director at pension advice specialist Portafina (www.portafina.co.uk), shares his top tips on how to increase your retirement savings.

Cut pension fees by consolidating or transferring Always keep a close eye on the fees you are charged by your pension provider. Rates can vary massively and what seems like a small change could make a big difference. Plus, if you have numerous pensions you will probably be paying a fee for each. To reduce charges, check out other pensions on the market with lower fees or consider consolidating your savings into one pot or switching your pension.

Check out your state pension The state pension is going to underpin your total retirement savings so you need to know whether you are going to get the full rate or not. You can check online at www.gov.uk/ check-state-pension. If it looks like you will get less than the full amount, usually because of gaps in your National Insurance payments, you can make voluntary contributions to bring your state pension allowance back up.

Track down past pension funds.

If you have had multiple jobs in your career then you might have multiple pension schemes. And even though you are probably not contributing to these schemes right now, the savings you made before you left the job are rightfully yours. The sooner you track them, the sooner you can make sure these savings are working as hard as they possibly can.

Increase your contributions.

It may sound obvious but pensions can easily be forgotten about. Frequently review your pension payments against your own personal

budget so that you increase your contributions when you can afford to do so. Small increases now could make a big difference to your future plans. Don’t forget, you can also defer accessing your state pension and most private pensions. Those added years of saving could make a big difference.

Carry your annual allowance over.

The maximum you can pay into your pension each tax year is your ‘pension annual allowance’ and is set at £40,000. This allowance includes: personal contributions; other contributions (from your employer), and any tax relief.

If you are in a strong position and can add more than £40,000 to your pension in a tax year, then contributions above this maximum allowance will be taxed at your marginal rate.

If you don’t use all this allowance in one year you can carry over the remaining balance and use it to boost your allowance limit the next year. However, you can only carry over unused allowance from the previous three years.

Seek regulated financial advice.

Overlooking the things a pension specialist could correct, such as high charges and low performance, could mean a nasty shock when it’s time to start drawing an income from your pot. That’s why it makes sense to seek regulated financial advice and check your pension. eastlife.co.uk | 63

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CONSUMER

Being pension free at 50 Why it’s never too late to start saving No one really wants to think about getting older with all the changes age might bring, the good health and vigour of youth tends to feel as if it will last forever. Being fit and healthy will obviously give you a better standard of living, but there is another and perhaps more important aspect of ageing that you need to consider sooner rather than later and that is the state of your financial health later in life.

It is estimated that the average person will need roughly £20k per year to survive, that isn’t living in luxury but just getting by. Where are you going to get that money? Well, if you haven’t made some provision then you might have a problem.

There are three different types of pension in the UK, the state pension is the one that the government pays you when you reach retirement age as long as you meet the requirements. At this time you will need to have worked and paid national insurance for 35 years, and obviously you can’t touch this pension until the government says you can.

Furthermore, that age seems to be getting later all the time, so the future of this pension pot might be uncertain at best.

Company Pension Another pension fund is the company pension.

This is where both you and your employer pay into your fund. All companies are required by law to offer company pensions to all employees and also to contribute to them which obviously enhances the pot.

Another benefit of company pensions is that often they can be taken earlier than the government funded pension making early retirement an option.

It is also possible to take out a private pension where you pay into an independent fund,

again this type of pension can be taken early.

All pension payments qualify for governmental subsidies and tax breaks.

So now you know a little about where to start but how do you get the extra money to fund your pension? Firstly, you will need to sit down and work out your finances, any money that can be diverted to pension planning should be earmarked for this purpose. Speak to an independent financial advisor if you are unsure. It might seem like an impossible task when money is so tight but when you consider that 40% of 22-65 year olds will not have enough in their pension pot at retirement, and 1 in 7 will have only the state pension to rely on, it might encourage you to at least make a start. 26 % of young people today do not make any investments at all for their future.

Obviously, the sooner you start to save the more you will have later in life and the smaller your payments could be. To obtain a pension of £20k at retirement a 25-year-old would need to pay about £250 per month, however by 45 years old this figure rockets to almost £850 per month, so early planning is essential.

It’s never too late to start saving for your pension. Visit Money Guru for more insightful finance advice at www.moneyguru.com/insights eastlife.co.uk | 65

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HEALTH

The exterior of Anson Court Gardens

Signs of a good care home We ask: “What makes a good care home?”

With so many options across East Anglia, choosing the right care home for a loved one can be a daunting ask. However, there should be key factors that stand out. To help you get a better understanding of what to look for we spoke to some of the region’s leading care providers.

Quality of care and engagement At the end of last year, Quantum care opened the doors to its latest care home, Anson Court in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. A 75-bed home offering residential, dementia, respite and day care for older people in the community. Its focus is on providing a high

quality of care, which is demonstrated by staff, the services and facilities available – rooms are fully furnished with en-suite shower, flatscreen TV, wifi and there’s even a café and hairdressing salon!

Maria Ball, Quantum Care chief executive said: “Our residents are at the heart of all we do. We work closely with families, friends and our staff to ensure that we are always providing the best possible standard of care, which is tailored to the individual needs of each person.

From our staff training and development programme, to investing in dementia-specialist virtual reality technology, we strive to ensure that Hertfordshire benefits from the most professional carers and the finest services in the UK.” eastlife.co.uk | 67

walcot hall 1/2 August14_1/2 LANDSCAPE GRID 08/07/2014 09:58 Page 1

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HEALTH

A typical dining area at Anson Court Gardens Ensure information is clear and concise There’s a lot of information that comes with choosing a care home, and it can be quite overwhelming. However, Andrew Long, CEO of Oakdale Care Group, which opened Layston Grove, in Buntingford in March 2018, suggests that a sign of a good care home is: “Clear and easy access to information about the home – in particular ratings from other residents and their families via the UK’s most recognised care sector rating site Carehome.co.uk. If the care home you are looking at is favourably and consistently rated well, then that is a good early indication of quality.”

Andrew believes price structures and what is included should be crystal clear. “If dialogue around fees is opaque then you should be wary. The chances are the operator is trying to assess how much they can push you on price.

Good operators publish their fee structure up front and will provide you with a clear resident’s guide as to the home’s services and what

is included. The best care homes today are often not charging extras”, he explains.

The team The staff play a vital role in the running of a good care home. Angela Hodge, who works for Care UK and spends a lot of her time talking to people looking for a care home place, says: “Walking into a care home, take note of your first impressions: is it warm, inviting and welcoming? Look at all the facilities available.

Look at the team. Are they compassionate, do they engage with the residents, do they support relatives, are they trained, experienced and able to cope? Our teams are fully-trained and have regular appraisals to ensure their skills match the developing and changing needs of the residents they support.”

With the help and advice from East Anglia’s leading care professionals, research and visits, you will find the right care homes for your requirements. eastlife.co.uk | 69

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HEALTH

Don’t neglect your knees Did you know our knees rely on at least 12 muscles to perform a simple function? As one of the most complex joints in our body, that we use more than we realise, it’s vital we look after them.

Mr Joel Melton is a specialist knee surgeon, working as a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital, with a masters degree in Orthopaedic Engineering. He is keen we all take care of our knees, especially as we grow older and after an injury. He explains what we should do to make them last as long as possible.

“Our knees carry us around when we walk and run; they are responsible for getting us up out of bed in the morning and out of a seated position in a chair. Activities such as climbing or descending stairs and jumping can put forces of up to five or six times our bodyweight through our knee joints.

To allow these activities to be possible, the knee joint has to be able to flex deeply and, with the complex rotation and rolling required within the joint, a ball and socket joint would not work. The knee joint is, therefore, fundamentally unstable due to its shape, and we rely on the function of our muscles and tendons to give stability to the joint and allow it to operate properly.

In health, we take this for granted and often neglect to keep our muscle strength as good as it should be. When we experience injuries and problems with knee joint function, it becomes increasingly important to keep the muscles around the joint stretched and to work on regular strengthening exercise.”

How to look after the precious joints, before it’s too late Quite rightly, we all want to remain active and healthy for as long as possible and take part in sporting activities and active pursuits for as

long as we can. It is worth trying to build in simple exercises as regularly as possible during the week and to take the option that uses our leg muscles and knee joints the most.

Walking is an excellent place to start even if more intense sporting activity is not possible.

Only 30 minutes of walking, four or five times a week will improve the muscle strength of the calf and thigh and improve support for the knee joints.

Before intense activity We all tend to become a little complacent about activity holidays, such as a week of skiing, and most of us are guilty of not preparing for this as much as we should. A skiing holiday can involve an average of five or six hours of skiing every day for six days, burning up to 6000 calories a day. This is great exercise, but most of it is performed with a flexed knee and huge rotational forces on the knee joint. We then wonder why we see so many skiing injuries, which keeps the consultants and physiotherapists so busy in Spring every year!

It is important to get fit and train for an activity holiday as if you are preparing for a eastlife.co.uk | 71

HEALTH

marathon or other endurance event. This will help to reduce the occurrence of injuries to the knee. Stretching of the muscles around the joint is as beneficial as strengthening exercises.

How to deal with injury If knees are injured, it is important to prioritise certain activities to help aid a full recovery.

Aggravating activity should be avoided and adequate rest should be ensured to allow the inflammation of the acute injury to settle. A gentle range of motion and muscle tensing exercises are generally safe and can gradually be introduced after an injury.

Elevation of the leg often helps to allow swelling to settle and ice therapy is also useful to control inflammation and help the swelling. Anti-inflammatory medications also have their place but these medications should be discussed with your doctor. Compression with a simple bandage is also often useful to control swelling and assist in recovery.

The healing process Unfortunately, as we mature, the healing process seems to take a little longer. It is important not to become frustrated with recovery and allow adequate time before returning to normal activities. Eating healthily, with a balanced diet and trying to control our weight is also helpful as it reduces the stresses on the 72 | eastlife.co.uk

To make an appointment with Mr Melton, please visit: www.spirehealth care.com/spirecambridge-lea-hospital or Tel: 01223 633 140 knee joint.

Early consultation with a physiotherapist can often be beneficial and if the injury is severe, medical attention should be sought.

A little bit of support and guidance from an expert is often all you need to improve your confidence that you are doing the right thing and this will, in turn, help you to recover more quickly.

Mr Melton continues: “They say that ‘prevention is better than cure’ and it’s true - every effort to improve general knee health and avoid injury is really important. So, if you can get out there, have fun and stay active with stretching and strengthening exercises for the knee, you will be able to reduce the risks of injury and enjoy the function your knees give you well into the long term.

All too often, we take our knee function for granted and we must remember that they continually carry us around, so we need to look after them!”

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What’s on?

NORFOLK 28 May - 2 June, 25 July - 31 August, 3 - 5 September Field to Fork Tractor Trailer Tour Holkham Hall, NR23 1AB www.holkham.co.uk/events/whats-on 11-27 May Norfolk & Norwich Festival Various venues www.nnfestival.org.uk 19-20 May Crab & Lobster Festival Cromer and Sheringham www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk 24 May - 3 June Norwich City of Ale Various venues www. cityofale.org.uk 27-28 May Country Fair at Hoveton Hall Estate Hoveton Hall Estate www.hovetonhall.co.uk 8-16 Jun Great Yarmouth Arts Festival Various venues www.greatyarmouthartsfestival.co.uk 15-17 Jun Summer Diesel Gala North Norfolk Railway www.nnrailway.co.uk 17-Jun Norwich Food and Drink Festival The Forum, Norwich norfolkfoodanddrink.com 6-8 Jul Gin Festival Norwich The Halls, St Andrews, Norwich, NR3 1AU www.ginfestival.com 14-16 Jul Annual Beer Festival Sheringham Station www.nnrailway.co.uk 21-29 Jul Holt Festival Holt NR25 6BN www.holtfestival.org 25-Jul Sandringham Flower Show Sandringham Park www.sandringhamestate.co.uk 28 Jul - 5 Aug Sheringham Carnival Sheringham www.sheringhamcarnival.com 4-5 Aug Sandringham Food & Drink Festival Sandringham Estate www.sandringhamfoodfestival.co.uk 11-Aug The Great British Prom Blickling Estate www.revival-productions.co.uk 13-14 Aug North Norfolk Music Festival Various venues www.northnorfolkmusicfestival.com 8-9 Sep Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival South Quay www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/maritime-festival/ 8-9 Sep Sandringham Game & Country Fair Sandringham Park www.livingheritagecraftshows.com.

15-16 Sep Out There Festival Great Yarmouth www.seachangearts.org.uk/out-there 15-16 Sep 1940s Weekend North Norfolk Railway www.nnrailway.co.uk SUFFOLK 6 May & 12 Aug Beccles Antiques Street Market Beccles Town Centre 18-21 May 1940s Weekend Town Centre, Lavenham www.discoverlavenham.com 18-27 May Bury Festival Various venues, Bury St Edmunds www.buryfestival.co.uk 26-28 May Framlingham Gala Fest Framlingham Castle, Church Street, Framlingham, IP13 9BP www.framlinghamgalafest.co.uk 30-31 May Suffolk Show Trinity Park, Ipswich www.trinityparkevents.co.uk 31 May - 2 Jun Red Rooster Euston Hall www.redrooster.org.uk 8-24 Jun Aldeburgh Festival 2018 Various venues www.aldeburgh.co.uk

8-10 Jun Homegrown Festival 2018 Church Farm, Barrow homegrownfest.co.uk 10-Jun The Taste of Sudbury Food & Drink Festival St. Peter’s Church, Sudbury www.tasteofsudbury.co.uk 23-24 Jun Dragon Fest West Stow, Bury St Edmunds,IP28 6HG www.weststow.org 23-Jun Great East Swim Alton Water Sports Centre www.suffolksport.com 21-Jun Suffolk Day 2018 Various venues and locations www.visitsuffolk.com/blog/Suffolk-Day.aspx 12-15 Jul Latitude Festival Henham Park, Southwold www.latitudefestival.com 21-22 Jul Jimmy’s Festival Jimmy’s Farm, Pannington Hall Lane, Wherstead, Ipswich, IP9 2AR www.jimmysfestival.co.uk 27-29 Jul Felixstowe Carnival Felixstowe www.felixstowecarnival.org 29-Jul Suffolk Dog Day Helmingham Hall Estate www.suffolkdogday.com 1 Aug - 1 Sep Snape Proms Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh www.aldeburgh.co.uk 11-Aug East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival 2016 Oulton Broad, Lowestoft www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk 17-19 Aug FolkEast Glemhall Hall, Woodbridge www.folkeast.co.uk 18-20 Aug Aldeburgh Carnival Aldeburgh www.aldeburghcarnival.com 26-27 Aug The Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival Town Centre, Bury St Edmunds www.burystedmundsfestivals.com 24-26 Aug Maui Waui Festival Peakhill Farm, Theberton www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 22-23 Sep The Woodbridge Shuck Whisstocks Quayside, Woodbridge www.woodbridgeshuck.co.uk 29-30 Sep Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival Snape Maltings www.aldeburghfoodanddrink.co.uk CAMBRIDGESHIRE 4-7 May Ely Eel Festival Ely City Centre, Jubilee Gardens & Palace Green www.elyeelfestival.co.uk 5-6 May QIPCO Guineas Festival Newmarket Racecourse newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk 6-May Duxford Spring Car Show IWM Duxford, CB22 4QR www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford 18 May - 22 Sep The Cambridge Roar Various venues in Cambridge www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk/home/events/ 21-26 May 45th Cambridge Beer Festival Jesus Green, Cambridge www.cambridgebeerfestival.com 2-Jun Strawberry Fair! Midsummer Common strawberry-fair.org.uk 3-Jun Cambridgeshire County Show Wimpole Home Farm, SG8 0BW www.cambscountyshow.co.uk 9-10 Jun Cambridge Town & Country Fair Cambridge www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 9-Jun Peterborough Dragon Boat Racing Peterborough Rowing Club, Thorpe Meadows dragonboatfestivals.co.uk 17-Jun Picnic in the Park Warners Park, St Ives stivesfest.org.uk 23-24 Jun The Cambridgeshire Food & Drink Festival East of England Showground, Oundle Rd, Alwalton, Peterborough PE2 6XE

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LISTINGS www.cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk 1-Jul Ely Aquafest The riverside, Lavender Green, Jubilee Gardens and the Maltings Green www.elyaquafest.org.uk 13-15 Jul The Big Weekend Parker’s Piece, Cambridge www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 13-15 Jul Ely Folk Festival Ely City Centre www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk 14-Jul Paxfest & Fun Dog Show Little Paxton Village Hall, PE19 6EY www.little-paxton.cambs.info 21-Jul Ferry Meadows Celebrates Culture (part of Peterborough Celebrates) Ferry Meadows neneparktrust.org.uk and www.peterboroughcelebrates.org.uk 2-5 Aug Cambridge Folk Festival Cherry Hinton Hall www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/folk-festival 24-25 Aug The Gin and Rum Festival Peterborough Cathedral Church of St Peter, Peterborough 25-27 Aug Festival of Water River Ouse, Riverside Park, St Neots www.waterways.org.uk ESSEX 20-May A Vintage Affair Hedingham Castle www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk/event/vintage-affair-2018 26 May, 28 Jul, 29 Sep & 24 Nov Curiosity Fair – Vintage & Craft Fair Saffron Walden Friends meeting house, High Street, Saffron Walden 26-27 May Mersea Food & Drink Festival Rewsalls Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8SX www.mersea-fdl-festival. com 7-9 Jun Chelmsford Film Festival 131 Bond Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1GH www.chelmsfordfilmfestival.com 9-Jun Breast Cancer Care Pink Ribbon Walk Audley End House www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on 9-10 Jun Mind Body Spirit Festival Chelmsford City Racecourse www.lifearts.co.uk/chelmsford-mind-body-spirit-festival-2018/ 21-14 Jun Leigh Folk Festival Various locations in Leigh leighfolkfestival.com 22 Jun - 15 Jul Thaxted Festival Thaxted Church www.thaxtedfestival.org.uk 30-Jun Fling Festival Hylands Park, Chelmsford www.flingfestival.com 13-15 Jul Brentwood Festival Brentwood Centre brentwoodfestival.co.uk 15-Jul Heritage Live Concert Series: 2CELLOS Audley End House www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on 21-Jul Outdoor Cinema: Dirty Dancing Maldon Promenade Park www.essexoutdoorcinema.com 3-5 Aug Brightlingsea Free Music Festival Various locations, Brightlingsea www.brightlingseafreefest.com 4-Aug Maldon Carnival Maldon High Street www.facebook.com/ MaldonCarnival 2-Sep Kite Festival Layer Marney Tower, CO5 9US layermarneytower.co.uk 16-Sep Apple Day at The Gardens of Easton Lodge Little Easton, CM6 2BB www.eastonlodge.co.uk 29-Sep Outdoor Cinema: Pretty Woman RHS Garden Hyde Hall www.essexoutdoorcinema.com 29-30 Sep The Essex Country Show Weald Country Park www.essexshow.co.uk HERTS 21 Apr, 19 May, 16 Jun, 21 Jul, 18 Aug , 15 Sep, 20 Oct & 17 Nov Stable Yard Antiques & Collectors Fair Hatfield House

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www.hatfield-house.co.uk/event 10-13 May Living Crafts Hatfield House www.livingcrafts.co.uk 5-7 May Hertfordshire Garden Show Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 26-27 May Homes & Antiques Fair Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 2-3 Jun St Albans Steam and Country Show Oaklands College (Smallford Campus), Hatfield Road, St Albans www.hertssteam.co.uk 3-Jun Cars at the Castle Hertford Castle, Hertford www.hertford.gov.uk/events/cars-at-the-castle-419/ 9-Jun Harpenden Carnival Harpenden Common www.harpendencarnival.com 10-Jun Theatre in the Park: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Hatfield House www.chapterhouse.org 17-Jun Father’s Day Medieval Jousting Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 24-Jun Alban Street Festival St Peter’s Street, St Albans www.enjoystalbans.com 28-Jun Garden Theatre - The Tempest Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 7-8 Jul DogFest Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 14-Jul Battle Proms Hatfield House www.battleproms.co.uk 15-Jul Folk by the Oak Hatfield House www.folkbytheoak.com 21-22 Jul The Great British Food Festival Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 5-Aug Rock at the Castle Hertford Castle, Hertford www.hertford.gov.uk/events/rock-at-the-castle-423/ 11-12 Aug Knebworth Country, Crafts & Steam Fair Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 17-19 Aug Art in Clay Hatfield Park www.artinclay.co.uk 24-25 Aug Open Air Cinema Hertford Castle, Hertford www.hertford.gov.uk/events/ BEDS 10 Mar - 23 Sept Celebrating Women of Bedfordshire The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk 13 May, 10 Jun, 8 Jul, 12 Aug, 14 Oct, 11 Nov & 9 Dec Woburn Antiques And Collectors Fair Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road 13-May Made in Bedford Artisan Fair Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40 1SL www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk 20 May, 8 Jul & 16 Sept Bedford Flea St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ www.facebook.com/BedfordFlea 3-Jun Big Lunch Food Festival Town Centre, Leighton Buzzard www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/your-town/events/ 16-Jun Taste Bedford The Embankment, Bedford, MK40 www.bedpop.co.uk/bedpop-presents-taste 23-24 Jun Woburn Abbey Garden Show Woburn Abbey Gardens, MK17 9WA www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events 28-Jun Linslade Canal Festival Tidenfoot Waterside Park, Mentmore Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 2AE www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/canal-festival/ 30-Jun AmpRocks Ampthill Great Park www.ampthillfestival.co.uk/amprocks 5-Aug Proms in Bedford Park Bedford Park, No 98 Kimbolton Rd, Bedford MK40 2PF www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk 13-15 Aug Afternoon Tea with speaker Gillian Perry MBE Woburn The Sculpture Gallery, MK17 9WA www.sculpturegallerywoburn.co.uk

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Providing high quality care in comfortable homely surroundings.

All homes are committed to preserving family values in a safe, friendly environment; Quantum Care understand the importance of the little things in life and our staff will always go that extra mile to make life as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible for all our residents and day centre members.

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Whether you are looking for a short break or a new home for yourself or a loved one, Quantum Care have the expertise to help you make that important decision.

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Quantum Care provide residential and dementia care at 23 homes in Hertfordshire, 2 in Bedfordshire and 1 in Essex. Other services available include; respite stays, day care, and convalescence for older people.

www.quantumcare.co.uk D A Y CA RE

RESPIT E C ARE

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Telephone or visit a home today. No appointment necessary

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info@quantumcare.co.uk