www.eastlife.co.uk
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May 2014
Living life in the East
MAY 2014
Festival Special Where will you be dancing this summer? Shape up for summer with our health focus
Make the most of where you live
Find your nearest
wedding fair
Norfolk education Sublime spa destinations Issue 108
Plus:
Bury St Edmunds, Peterborough, Saffron Walden, Cromer and more...
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THE RIVER BAR STEAKHOUSE & GRILL
Great fresh local ingredients in a beautiful location overlooking Magdalene College & The River www.riverbarsteakhouse.com 01223 307030
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15075 East Life 240x168 Advert_Layout 1 10/12/2013 17:15 Page 1
> EXACTLY WHAT YOU BUDGETED FOR.
> THINKING ABOUT A NEW MERCEDES-BENZ? HAVE A BUDGET IN MIND? Then just go to our yourmercedes microsite. Simply select the monthly figure that suits your budget and choose the Mercedes-Benz for you. You’ll also find our very latest offers on selected models too.
Just go to www.yourmercedes.co.uk to find the right Mercedes-Benz, at the right price.
Robinsons Group Mercedes-Benz of Bury St. Edmunds 01284 769 676
Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401 100
Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751 000
Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294 900
Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777 307
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new E-Class range: urban 20.3(13.9)-68.9(4.1), extra urban 36.2(7.8)-68.9(4.1), combined 28.3(10.0)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 234-109 g/km. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz new E 220 CDI AMG Sport Saloon with manual transmission at £39,950.00 on-the-road including optional 18" AMG alloy wheels at £365.00, 360 camera at £715.00, Driving Assistance Package at £2,345.00 and LED Intelligent Light System at £1,280.00. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of going to press (12/13).
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CONTENTS
“Dear Reader: Nothing signifies the start of summer as planning which festivals to visit. There seems to be even more this year than ever. And from boutique festivals to the big hitters, we’re here to help you choose the right one with our highlights of the summer’s festivals feature.
May 2014
37
We also discover the region’s best spa destinations, reveal the wedding fairs you must visit, discover Norfolk’s top schools and reveal a host of ideas to brighten up your house. And if you enjoy reading our features you will be pleased to hear we have plenty more online at www.eastlife.co.uk.
WEDDINGS
the editor
Make sure you’re picture perfect; wedding hair for him & her
Finally after 18 months editing East Anglia’s best and most comprehensive magazine it is time for a change. Luckily, the future of Eastlife will remain in the most capable of hands. And the new editor Emma has some exciting plans. So it just leaves me to say for one last time: Enjoy the summer and more importantly love where you live!
F EATURES
43
23
Festival fun
Festival seaosn is almost here - where will you be dancing this summer?
SPAS
Relax with a pamper session at one of East Anglia’s top spas
17 AROUND THE REGION - what’s new this month? 23 Festival fun - a round-up of this summers top festivals 31 SUFFOLK SHOW - the county’s finest country fair is back 35 weddings - Summer fairs & top tips for your hair 43 spas - Discover the regions most sublime spas 47 EDUCATION - Norfolk’s finest schools 53 INTERIORS - Spruce up your kitchen for summer 59 EXTERIORS - Hot tubs for your garden 63 HEALTH SPECIAL - Fitness, weight loss, men’s health & more 89 SUFFOLK RESTAURANTS - Visit the county’s top 10 eateries eastlife.co.uk|7
Sunday lunch menu only
SUNDAY LUNCH
HAVE YOU MET YOUR
NEW NEIGHBOURS?
MAKE A DATE TO DINE IN STYLE Come over to our house and enjoy great food and wine in the most elegant surroundings. Bring the family on Sunday and choose from a plethora of lunch favourites, including traditional roasts with
KIDS EAT FREE (under 12) 12 – 2.30pm
Lunch from the House menu with a complimentary glass of wine
2 courses for £16.50 3 courses for £18.50 Mon – Fri, 12 – 2pm
Dinner from the House menu and a complimentary glass of wine
a contemporary twist and lots of tempting
3 courses for £25.00
desserts to finish.
Mon – Fri from 7pm
To book call 01223 653111 or e-mail POETS HOUSE, ELY PADDOCKS HOUSE, NEWMARKET
www.thehousecollection.com
enquiries@thehousecollection.com quoting ‘East magazine’. All offers must be pre-booked, are valid until 30th June 2014 and are subject to availability.
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CONTENTS May 2014
107
131
WHAT’S ON IN THE EAST
93 Norfolk - Find out what’s on Publisher Sean Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson 01954 268129 paul@eastmag.com Editor Emma Morgan emma@eastmag.com Editor Chris Johnson chris@eastmag.com Design/Production Craig Lewis 01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Editorial Assistants Simona Arcaro, Constance Mance Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex) Like Eastlife? Darren Marshall 07826 628680 Like our Facebook darren@eastmag.com page Area Manager (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) Stewart Hedges 07595 894557 stewart@eastmag.com Area Manager (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) Jim Leishman 01954 267635 jim@eastmag.com ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES 01954 268129 accounts@eastmag.com ADVERTISING ads@eastmag.com EDITORIAL editorial@eastmag.com HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY.
www.facebook.com/ eastlifemag
@eastmagazines
www.eastlife.co.uk
EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Headley Brothers.
97 diss - Discover the delightful town 99
CROMER - Coastal charm at its best
101 ESSEX - Explore the region 105 Thaxted - Learn more about the colourful country village 107 saffron walden - Visit the vibrant market town 111 Suffolk - Why we love this county 115 bury st edmunds - Explore the beautiful town 121 Long Melford - History and hospitality 125 CAMBRIDGESHIRE - City events 131 peterborough - A pretty city with so much to offer 137 Herts/beds/Bucks - Key May events 141 Royston - A town rich in history 143 BALDOCK - Beauty at every turn 145
BIGGLESWADE - Everything you need to know
146 NEW Releases - This month’s new releases Coming up in next month’s Eastlife.... Prepare your garden for summer with our al fresco dining special, great days out and afternoon tea. PLUS The next step to planning your perfect wedding floral decisions! MORE: Top Hertfordshire schools, summer in the city; we tour East Anglia’s cities, fashion, father’s day and many more features to keep you in the loop.
Get the most out of where you live at www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|9
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Enjoy adrenalin days in the Lee Valley Be inspired at the world class Lee Valley VeloPark or experience the ultimate adrenalin adventure at Lee Valley White Water Centre
Start your adVEnturE at
visitleevalley.org.uk
eastlife.co.uk|27
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Have you
ever thought of
Fostering? The Foster Care Co-operative is a
not for profit agency
providing quality care with integrity.
We’re recruiting carers in this area • Our focus is on the children we care for. • We match children with carers carefully to promote stable placements.
If you think you could foster a child, please call our social workers in the area for more information between 9am & 5pm weekdays -
Janet Johnson on 07585 226359 or Helen Underwood on 07725 885521 or call FREEPHONE 0800 0856 538
www.fostercarecooperative.co.uk duty@fostercarecooperative.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|27
A whole day of non-stop family fun & adventure in the forest!
T: 0845 094 9741 www.goape.co.uk
T: 01842 810090 www.bikeartthetford.co.uk
Directions: High Lodge is situated in Thetford Forest on the B1107. Sat Nav: IP27 0AF. Open every day (excluding Christmas Day). Discovery Pass available. All cars and minibuses must pay a site entry fee. Additional charges for Go Ape & bike hire. For more info call 01842 815434.
T: 01842 813949 www.highlodge-catering.co.uk
forestry.gov.uk/highlodge
East Life/1152 HL/Jan2014©Crown copyright
• Play areas for all ages • Walking and cycling trails • Go Ape & Tree Top Junior • Bike shop & hire from BikeArt • Forest Segway • Cafe
eastlife.co.uk|15
Casual & t permanen g n ri o o M Facilities available
Acle Bridge GENERAL STORE We serve hot and cold food and drinks including freshly baked pasties and pies & fresh fruit and vegetables, stock all provisions, newspapers & magazines, toys, gifts, clothing and toiletries and the BEST BACON ROLLS ON THE BROADS‌
Old Road, Acle NR13 3AT
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Around the Region
O
ne for the green-fingered types among you, the Festival of Plants at Cambridge University Botanic Garden returns on Saturday 17 May, 10am to 4pm. Bringing together horticulture and science in a day devoted to all things plant, from propagation to pollination and seeds to shopping, visitors can learn top tips from a host of plant and gardening experts. A range of events and exhibits timetabled throughout the day include ‘ask the gardener’ sessions, pop-up plant science demonstrations, and plant shopping along the Garden’s majestic Main Walk. A great opportunity to understand and make the most of your garden, which is at its best during late spring, the event offers something for everyone. Admission is £4.50/£4.95 gift aid, £3.95/£4.30 concession. Children under 16 are admitted free of charge. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk
Around the
REGION N
ew for the 2014 Norfolk and Norwich Open Studios, is the Rivers Thurne and Bure Art Trail, taking place 24 May to 8 June. The trail runs between Thurne and Acle linking artists in Thurne, Oby, Upton and Acle. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Norfolk Broads by boat, foot or car whilst visiting artists in their studios. A new approach to art, the trail offers works from six diverse multidisciplined artists and artisans taking part in Norfolk Opens Studios. Tel 01603 877762 www.nnopenstudios.org.uk/
A
ll aboard! If you simply love trains or are looking for a great family day out head to Bure Valley Railway for the ‘Everything Goes’ event at the end of this month. An intensive service will run during the last bank holiday weekend 24 to 26 May, with all available engines, coaches and rolling stock in action. Visitors will be able to see as many different locomotives as possible hard at work over the nine miles between Aylsham and Wroxham. To keep younger visitors entertained there will be a competition on the train journey, with a free prize for every correct entry. The workshop at Aylsham will also be open throughout the weekend with staff on hand to answer any questions. Andrew Barnes, director, said: “This event will give railway enthusiasts and families alike a chance to see a collection of some of the world’s most powerful 15-inch gauge steam engines on display and in operation.” Trains will be running from both Aylsham and Wroxham and fares allow unlimited travel on the day of issue. Children under 5 travel free. For further details see www.bvrw.co.uk
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Around the Region
T
his May take a trip to The Apex and enjoy a diverse range of music. From classical music to pop, rock, jazz, blues, world, country and folk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. May’s highlights include the return of Suggs on 27 May after his soldout April show. Suggs: My Life Story, the Madness frontman tells all in his hilarious, yet moving tale. Known for his eclectic mash up mixes on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra, Jaguar Skills plays everything from hip hop to drum & bass on 10 May. Now in its fourth year at The Apex, Fashion Fusion returns on 9 May and showcases the exciting new ranges from Bury St Edmunds’ retailers with all proceeds from the event going to St Nicholas Hospice. The Hospice is also supported on the 28 May with a gig by popular local folk/rockers The Bounty Hounds, supported by The Broadside Boys and Cudby-Calder. Retro Icons, the festival exhibition at The Apex & Elseys Gallery will take place 16 May to 8 June and will feature a rare and historical iconic photographic images by Peter Akehurst and Tim Motion, that spans thirty years from the Swinging sixties to the ‘naughty nineties’. There is a rare opportunity to see the 1215 Magna Carta, which is on display in the Cathedral from 1-31 May. For more details about Apex gigs, see www.theapex.co.uk
Around the
REGION T
he sun has made an appearance and its time to venture into the great outdoors. May officially kicks starts the summer season with a host of family fairs and festivals with many of our favourites returning for another year. Now in its 12th year, the Stotfold Mill Steam Fair & Country Show returns 10 to 11 May 2014, open 10.30am to 5pm. Attracting visitors locally and from surrounding counties this year’s fair is looking bigger and better than ever before. The main arena attractions include Comitatus, a demonstration from Britain’s leading Roman re-enactment group of the life and skills of the Roman army, Team Mad, Above and Beyond and the Essex Dog Display Team. A new addition to the vintage fair is a helter-skelter as seen on Downton Abbey. Highlights include the fly-pasts by Battle of Britain Memorial Flight . On Saturday afternoon, the show is expecting a C47 Dakota and on Sunday morning at about 10.35am, an Avro Lancaster, so don’t be late. Visitors can take helicopter flights; enjoy traditional fairground games, like the coconut shy and china smash or the more modern ‘Whack a wreck’. Mill Lane, Stotfold, Bedfordshire, SG5 4NU www.stotfoldmill.com
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Around the Region Competition Time
W
in a family pass to Shrepreth Wildlife Park and Waterworld and Bug City, plus family discount card and souvenir guide, worth £58! There are so many different animals to meet you won’t know where to start at this multi-award winning attraction! Marvel at the sheer ‘roar’ power of the tigers in the Big Cat House or spy upon the mischievous primates on Monkey Island. Getting up close and personal with the residents of the park is what it’s all about. The newly opened Education & Discovery Centre, with inspiring education team, are on hand to amaze young and old minds alike with their fascinating facts, life-like dinosaurs and hands-on animal encounters. There really is something for everyone, with keeper events and talks every half an hour, the adventure play area complete with pirate ship and Ringo’s indoor Play Barn and cafeteria. Shepreth Wildlife Park really is the place to be in 2014, come rain or shine. Simply answer the following question and post your answers to the address below. What will you find in the new Education & Discovery Centre? 1) Flowers 2) Robots 3) Life-like dinosaurs
Around the
Send your entries to: Eastlife Magazine Competition, Thompson Media Partners Ltd, Unit 4 Avenue Business Park, Cambridge, CB23 4EY The winner will be announced 1 June 2014.
REGION T
Meet the modern day butler
he House Collection, the luxury boutique hotel group behind Poets House, Ely and the newly launched Paddocks House near Newmarket, has added an extra touch of luxury and has welcomed Head Butler, George Telford, to its team. A butler in the truest sense of the word, George has worked with both rock stars and royalty, on private yachts, in private houses and five-star hotels worldwide. Embracing all things British, George brings a modern day touch of Downton Abbey service and style to The House Collection hotels, without the stuffiness. With meticulous attention to detail, George’s mission is to make sure that every guest enjoys seamless VIP service, while feeling comfortable, relaxed and totally at home. George will be on hand to greet guests on arrival and show them around the hotel. If they wish, he can help unpack their cases, run a bath while they dine and provide a turn down service where required. Discreet, but charming with a keen sense of humour, George may occasionally allude to his celebrity connections – he even claims to have served Robbie Williams with deep fried Mars Bars, much to his chef’s concern. Tom Hanks, who George comments is a real gentlemen, has also benefited from his first class care. enquiries@thehousecollection.com Tel: 01638 593222 eastlife.co.uk |21
Saturday 28 June 2014 Hylands Park Chelmsford Essex Kid Kasino Dizraeli & DJ DownLow The Kubricks Mr. B The Gentleman Rhymer LIVE MUSIC FEATURING:
Gorgeous George
The Ghouls + more
Over 300 performers to be announced soon Latest line-up, festival tickets, bus and car-sharing info at:
or in person at the Civic Theatre, Fairfield Rd, Chelmsford until 6pm, June 27.
EG E R N F RKI
Programme subject to change.
PA
heybridgecreative
Produced by
Festivals
Sounds of the Summer
Wellies & tents at the ready, festival season is almost upon us...
I
t’s time to put flowers in your hair and frolic in the fields, as we get ready for a jam-packed summer of festival fun across East Anglia. Whether you’re looking for a family day out or want to dance the day (and night) away with friends, we have it covered… Deepdale Outdoor & Wildlife Festival Sat 10 – Sun 11th May, Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale Enjoy a weekend of all things outdoors and wildlife on the North Norfolk Coast. With nature and the great outdoors as its focus, the festival will offer stands, entertainment and activities such as archery taster sessions, wall climbing, a guided bird walk and a chance to get up close and personal with Norfolk’s wildlife. www.deepdalefarm.co.uk/ outdoorfestival
Bedford Kite Festival Sat 24 – Mon 26 May, Russell Park, Bedford Taking place over the bank holiday weekend, the festival will showcase kites from all over the globe and feature children and adult workshops in the kite marquee with a special arena for members of the public to fly their own or workshop made kites. Alongside the various demonstrations in the arena will be a whole host of other attractions, food and drink, entertainment, music and kite stalls. Battle of the Bands will return on the Monday. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/ outdoorevents
Norfolk & Norwich Festival Fri 9 – Sun 25 May Great for audiences of all ages, the festival will be bringing a range of international performers to Norwich and across the county, as well as celebrating the best of local talent. Highlights include the extraordinary Opus No 7, exploring artistic rebellion against an autocratic state, a world premiere from Norfolk-based theatrical ensemble curious directive and a return to the Theatre Royal by dance iconoclast Michael Clark. www.nnfestival.org.uk/festival Tel: 01603 877750
Fling Festival
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Festivals
Strawberry Fair Saturday 7 June, Midsummer Common, Cambridge With almost a 40-year history, the Strawberry Fair has grown to become one of the most popular free music and arts festivals in Cambridge. Offering a joyful community spirit, residents and visitors come together on Midsummer Common to celebrate their vibrant and creative city. A visual and musical extravaganza for all the family, you can enjoy a day of performances from acts both local and further afield. The parade sets off to go around the town centre around 11am, returning at noon to kick off the Fair, which runs to 11pm. Admission is free. www.strawberryfair.org.uk Fairhaven Green Festival and Broads Green Boat Show Combine Sunday 22 June, 10am to 5pm Enjoy an action packed day of entertainment and fun environmental activities on land and afloat. Entertainment includes music from The He Hews and St Edmund’s Youth Orchestra, and performances from The Pedants Revolt – to name a few! Visitors will be able to view the latest from a range of exhibitors. Tel. 01603 270449 www.fairhavengarden.co.uk www.greenboatandtourismshow. co.uk.
The 3foot People Festival Tues 24 – Thurs 26 June Now in its ninth year, The 3foot People Festival will take place from the 24th – 26th June at Hylands Park, Chelmsford. Thousands of preschool children will experience a world of wonder in this unique festival village of tents, teepees and domes. Activities will include a giant sand pit, storytellers, soft play areas, big show entertainers, arts and crafts and much more. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/events
Saffron Walden Carnival - 8 Day Weekend Fri 4 - Sat 12 July, Saffron Walden, Essex Mark the date on your calendar, Saffron Walden’s biggest party roars into action this July with a massive procession. This year’s theme is the ‘Carnival of Nations’. More then 100 floats, classic cars and marching bands will make their way along the four mile route to the heart of the historic market town. The eight-day event will include a host of entertainment and live music. www.8dayweekend.co.uk
Wymondham Music Festival Norfolk Events from May leading up to the festival fortnight from Sat 21 June to Sunday 6 July. Norfolk Schools’ Brass Band launches the summer music season in the Market Place on Saturday 10 May from 10am to 12noon. The annual Wymondham Town Busking Day follows on Saturday 24 May. There’s a double-header on Saturday 31 May as multiinstrumentalist Raevennan Husbandes, is in the Market Place from 10am, supported by local singer-songwriter James Summerhill. Then at 7.30pm, Norwich Baroque presents The Bach Family and the Baroque Cello at Wymondham Abbey. More than 40 events during ‘festival fortnight’ include the vibrant Bella Tromba (Wymondham Abbey, 21 June), Pasadena Roof Orchestra (Central Hall, 27 June) and Edwina Hayes, ‘The sweetest voice in England’ (Central Hall, 4 July). For full programme details and online ticket sales see www.wymfestival.org.uk.
Fairhaven Green Festival
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Festivals The Fling Festival Saturday 28 June, Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex Produced by Chelmsford City County, The Fling is a festival of assorted amusements offering a magnitude of wonders including music, poetry, a silent disco, cabaret, burlesque, circus, dance, fancy dress and a beach, all designed to bring out your playful side. New faces will mingle amongst acts back by popular demands as they fill the huge tented village of adults-only amusements from 12 noon to 11pm. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/fling
V Festival Saturday 16 – Sunday 17 August, Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex The biggest festival of the summer returns to Hylands Park with a fresh look and feel. The two-day event will see the world’s chart toppers take to the stage. The likes of Justin Timberlake, Ed Sheeran and Rizzle Kicks are just a few of the big names set to perform. This year the camping experience has been taken to a whole new level with a choice of luxury accommodation available including yurts, suite huts, pods and hotel tents as well as the V-Style area where festivalgoers can freshen up and relax. www.vfestival.com
Latitude Festival Thursday 17 – Sunday 20 July, Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk Set in a beautiful location, Latitude Festival is a favourite among festival-goers. With a relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal for all family members. Dance the day away with performances from headliners Damon Albarn and The Black Keys, or lose yourself to the sultry vocals from Anna Calvi and Memphis soul legend Booker T Jones. The literacy arena will reverberate with the wit and wisdom of a multitude of celebrated writers with a selection of special events. www.latitudefestival.com
Homegrown Music Festival Fri 22 - Mon 25 August, Church Road, Barrow, Bury St Edmonds, IP29 5AX Following the success of last year’s event, the Homegrown Music Festival will return to Barrow for a long weekend of live music from the best of East Anglia’s signed and unsigned talent. Visitors can enjoy a showcase of over 30 local bands and a handful of DJ’s. Unlike other festivals Homegrown is all about keeping it simple with realistically priced food and drink available; a great fmaily day out that won’t break the bank! Tel: 01284 810 446 www.homegrownfest.co.uk
Ely Folk Festival Friday 11 – Sunday 13 July, Ely Outdoor Centre, Ely, Sitting in the heart of the Cambridgeshire Fens, what better location is there for a folk music and dance festival? Set to be better than the last, the Ely Folk Festival returns with an impressive guest list and programme of workshops, concerts, Morris displays and ceilidhs. The small and friendly festival is based on a single site, which includes marquees, camping facilities, food stalls, trade stands, a real-ale bar and children’s entertainment. www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk
Reload Festival Fri 5 – Sun 7 September, Norfolk Showground, Norwich, NR5 0TT This summer Norfolk is going retro with the launch of Reload Festival. Set to be one of East Anglia’s biggest events of the season, the UK’s Generation X are invited to ride the wave of nostalgia as the two-day event brings a raft of British and US music legends to Norfolk. With performances from the likes of Kool & the Gang, Oddysey, Rick Astley, Billy Ocean and Sister Sledge to name a few, it’s one not to be missed. Performances will take place on the main stage Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September. A variety of camping is available including a boutique glamping experience from Yippee Yurts. www.reloadfestival.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|29
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The Suffolk Show
The
Suffolk Show
A closer look at the county’s biggest two-day event
T
aking place 28 and 29 May at Trinity Park, Ipswich, The Suffolk Show is a roundup of the county’s finest. Expect exhilarating displays, a showcase of Suffolk’s growing businesses, sport and a feast of food and drink. This year’s show see’s the exciting launch of the Farm Discovery Zone; an interactive area packed with activities that all the family can explore to discover the journey of their food to the table. The area is designed as a journey through various aspects of farming, divided by group and establishing the connection between food and farming. Visitors can discover cows being milked by local farmers who will be on hand to demonstrate how the milk is used for butter, cheese and yogurt, sheep sheering followed by a trip to the vintage craft area where visitors will see how wool is spun and woven to make gifts as well as educational talks, recipes and tastings from pork and beef farmers. Bill Baker, show director, commented on the new feature: “One thing I have realised is that everyone likes to participate. So this year’s show focus is very much on creating opportunities for visitors of all ages.” For those looking for home improvements the dedicated Home
and Garden Zone will be packed with ideas, services and products for creating the ultimate indoor and outdoor space, while the Flower and Garden experience is ideal for planting inspiration. There will be an array of sporting activities for the whole family to see and try, free of charge at the Sports Village, including football, judo, cycling and tennis among others. The Newmarket Experience will provide an insight into Newmarket’s famous heritage with the National Horseracing Museum’s mobile popup interactive ‘Travelling Paddock’ and a racehorse simulator. Add to the mix The Adnams’ Food and Drink Experience offering over 70 of the regions finest producers, a cookery theatre and drinks courtyard, and you’ll soon discover why this is an event not to be missed. Returning to the show to mark their 10th year anniversary is Suffolkbased Hillfarm Oils. Hillfarm was the first producer to bring cold-pressed rapeseed oil to market in the UK, which they launched at the Suffolk Show in 2004. With children under 14 free of charge and dogs welcome, The Suffolk Show makes for a great family day out. Gates open at 7.30am until late Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, IP3 8UH. Tel: 01473 707110 eastlife.co.uk|31
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Summer collection
10% off
& free delivery* Quote EAS41 at website checkout when ordering or bring this voucher into store
Visit one of our stores: Bishop’s Stortford, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Colchester, Harpenden and Norwich *10% offer not valid on sale items, multibuys, gift vouchers or Micro Scooters. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. This voucher is valid until 31.12.2014. Free delivery to UK and Ireland. See website for full details.
Ways to keep in touch:
East Life Apr.indd 1
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Wedding Fairs
My
Fair Wedding
Whether you’re newly engaged or are in full wedding planning mode, a trip to a regional wedding fair is great for inspiration
W
ith the wedding season in full swing we round up the summers best wedding fairs for our bonny brides. From bouquets to bridal gowns and cakes to confetti, East Anglia’s wedding fairs can help you plan your dream wedding without a hitch. NORFOLK
Sunday 11 May Big C Wedding Fair & Bridal Fashion Show 10am - 3pm Helping you find everything you need for your perfect day, whilst raising money and awareness for the Big C, the fair has free entry and parking, a free Confetti goody bag for the first 150 brides-to-be, a bridal fashion show at 11am and 1pm and Norfolk’s biggest pre-loved dress sale. Roundwood Celebration Venue, 44 Ringland Road, Taverham, Norwich, NR8 6HY
Sunday 7 September Wedding Spectacular 11am - 4pm A fabulous wedding fair offering a great range of suppliers and a number of fashion shows. Watch the bridal fashion show at 12.30pm and 2.30pm and a feature fashion show for bridesmaid, flower girls and maids of honours at 3.30pm. St Andrew’s Hall, St Andrew’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AU CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Sunday 21 September Wedding Fair at Magdalene College 11am - 4pm With up to 50 leading suppliers and fabulous fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm, bridesto-be have the perfect opportunity to view this stunning venue and some of the very best wedding businesses in Cambridge. Free entry and a copy of The Wedding Guide for every bride. Cripps Court, Magdalene College, 1-3 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 3AD
SUFFOLK
ESSEX
Sunday 11 May
Sunday 11 May
Meet The Wedding Experts 10am - 4pm Enjoy either a half or full day of inspiration and planning from some of the UK’s most influential wedding experts. Speakers include Paula Pryke, world renowned floral artist, Terry Fox, awardwinning bridal designer, Charles Howard, a top London wedding coordinator and James Davidson, a highly acclaimed wedding and fashion photographer. Relax with friends in the serene environment of this private members club while absorbing all you need to plan your own perfect wedding. Price per person: Half Day - £8 Full Day £15 Full Day & Lunch - £51 Pre-booking essential. Tel: 01638 663 101 The Jockey Club Rooms, 101 High Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8JL
Thursday 12 September Wedding Fair 6pm - 10pm View a full range of exhibitors, watch the bridal fashion show and take a look at this stunning venue. Free entry for every bride-to-be. Christchurch Mansion, Soane Street, Ipswich, IP4 2BE
Wedding Day Angel, Colchester 11am - 4pm Brides-to-be can enjoy a fun and exciting fair with a mix of over 40 exhibitors offering advice as well as wedding fashion shows, live entertainment and a fun photo booth. Free entry. The Mark’s Tey Hotel, London Road, Colchester, CO6 1DU
Sunday 18 May Portlands Park Wedding Show 11am - 3pm Pontlands Park Wedding Show offers a chance to view this spectacular wedding venue, which has beautiful Victorian architecture and well tendered grounds ideal for photo opportunities. Free entry. West Hanningfield Rd, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, CM2 8HR
Sunday 1 June Essex Vinatge Wedding Fair 11am - 4pm A show dedicated to showcasing the best of vintage wedding suppliers in Essex. Connecting couples who love the vintage style and top quality wedding professionals who specialise in styles inspired by the past, the vinatge fairs have grown to be interactive, unique events which attract brides and grooms to be from all over the South East.The vintage wedding fairs presents all aspects of the wedding industry, from photography to dresses, stationery to styling. Live entertainment, DIY wedding workshops & vintage tea rooms will be also available at the show, creating a wonderful interactive experience to the day. Entry £2. Leigh-On-Sea Communty Centre, Elm Road, SS9 1SP
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Weddings
Heavenly hairdos Get your aisle style sorted in seconds with our top tips for wedding hair
A
ll women are prone to the odd bad hair day but the one time you don’t want to battle the frizz is on your wedding day. Whether it is in a salon, the comfort of your own home or at the venue make sure you look and feel beautiful on your big day with the help of our top tips!
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icture perfect The neckline of your dress can have a huge impact on the type of hairstyle you should choose. A one-shoulder dress can work well with a side bun, while a halterneck dress looks great with hair up.
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tay true to you When it comes to wedding hair, a lot of brides often think they need to dramatically change their look. Wanting to grow your hair or add a few highlights are rather normal wishes, but do you want to be unrecognisable on the day? Remember to be yourself and not change your style to radically.
uild a relationship There are lots of relationships to manage during your wedding planning but one of the most important is the hair relationship you have with your stylist. This can be a key part in looking and feeling good and perfecting your bridal hair. Have regular appointments with your hairdresser so they get to know your hair, face shape and what works for you.
A
ccessories Hair accessories have made a huge comeback this summer with lots of options available. Anything from a nice white flower to more extravagant diamante pieces are great to give your hair a lovely bridal feel. Accessories are key for making short hair look more bridal with many things to try such as hair clips, hairbands and even fresh flowers.
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other nature You may feel as though you’re just one spreadsheet and post-it away from being a bona fide wedding planner but the one thing out of every brides control is the weather. Think about the month and style of your wedding and plan ahead. Many hair stylists will have a range of serums for battling hot dry weather to prevent sapping moisture from your locks when styling, frizz fighting protection for wet damp days and techniques to avoid dry tired hair during cold snaps. Whether you have short, midlength or long locks to contend with this is one war Mother Nature will not win.
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To make sure you get the right look for your dress show your hairdresser a picture of your dress beforehand so they can work the hairstyle around the design. Most professional hair stylists will know which hairdos work for which style of dress and will be on hand to offer you advice. Remember not to get carried away with ambitious hairdos, work with something that suits you and your dress. eastlife.co.uk|37
For that special occasion Extensive stock of Mother of the Bride Outfits from
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Weddings
Grooms grooming Looking immaculate for your wedding day is easier than you think...
I
f you’re not what they would call a “modern man” and they thought of being preened is somewhat terrifying, smarten up for your big day with our top tips and who knows perhaps you might even upstage the bride?
C
lose shave Beards and facial stubble are one of those trends that have a fashion moment and then as quick as it comes it’s gone, but before you reach for the razor, think about how you want to look on your wedding day? Yes, a shave is essential for looking clean and fresh but don’t feel the need to keep up with a trend. It’s important to look and feel comfortable with yourself so whether you have a furry face or a smooth smile, opt for a shave that suits your personal style. Beards are having somewhat of a fashion moment this season. More and more A-listers are hitting the red carpet with a full face of hair. Starting short, beards have reverted through the ages and are now looking fuller in thickness and length. Yet as always the clean shave is fighting back. Lots of barbers throughout East Anglia offer both hairstyling and traditional cut-thorat shaving, and will be skilled and trained to deal with any length of facial hair. Don’t be afraid to ask for a shave – you’re not expected to do it yourself, it’s your wedding day after all, it’s a time to be pampered!
H
air hassle Let’s face it men aren’t quite as organised as women so don’t leave it until the last minute to visit your barber. Be prepared and book an appointment in advance to avoid the disappointment of not having your regular barber. Some traditional barbers don’t offer appointments but if you have a good relationship with your stylist most will be happy to arrange a time for you to come in to avoid queues and a rushed cut.
C
lean cut Though it’s essential to have a haircut for your wedding day avoid having a full cut the day before. Freshly cut hair can often look to sharpe and short and may not necessarily photograph to its best ability. James Kemsley, owner of The Kemsley Barber Co, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, advises: “Have your hair cut 10 days prior to avoid it looking too short in photos, then re-visit your barber a couple of days beforehand to have the edges trimmed and tided to get fresh lines. “For styling on the day, a dry matt product will work best. This will give the hair good texture and hold the style throughout the day.”
S
ilky skin It can often help to get into a regular skincare routine in the lead up to your wedding. Take time to think about the condition of your skin and use products tailored to your needs. Even if you’re skin is in reasonably good condition, a quick cleanse and moisture once a day can do wonders. If you’re a little lost about what you need to do take a trip to a salon or spa. There are many around East Anglia that offers great treatments specifically for men. eastlife.co.uk|39
To have a wedding day unlike any other
East Mersea Hall is the place to visit
East Mersea Hall is steeped in Elizabethan elegance and history with stunning mature gardens and woodland offset against the breathtaking lake. It is fully licensed for all types of Civil Ceremonies, alternatively there is the Church of St Edmunds which adjoins the grounds of the Hall and is accessed via private pathways. The picturesque gardens and lake makes East Mersea Hall the perfect wedding reception venue.
East Mersea Hall, Church Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex CO5 8TJ Contact: Sarah Baldwin Phone: (01206) 383499 Mobile: (07842) 195221 Email: eastmerseahall@aol.co.uk www.eastmerseahall.co.uk
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Spas
Sh h h h . . .
Sumptuous Spas We all need a little self-indulgence now and then. Whether it’s for a day or two, it’s time to be pampered… The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel
Valentina Day Spa
Crowne Plaza
If you’re looking for a day of relaxation take a trip to Valetina Day Spa in Letchworth Garden City. Here you’ll find something to treat your mind, body and soul. There is a wide range of treatments available including alternative therapists such as a hypnotherapist, shiatsu and Thai masseurs and a reiki specialist and psychic healer. All products used are natural mineral make-up and vegan polish. The spa even has its own training beauty school – a one-stop shop for all your relaxation needs. 63 Station Road, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3BJ Tel: 01462 686999
The Crowne Plaza Resort in Essex offers some of the finest leisure facilities in the area. Enhance your mental and physical wellbeing in the secluded sanctuary of the spa. Therapists offer a range of luxurious beauty therapies, including massages, facials, manicures, aromatherapy and reflexology. Enjoy the indoor swimming pool and relax in the spa bath, sauna and steam room or alternatively, work out in spin, aerobics or aqua classes and the Technogym. Indoor tennis, badminton and squash courts are also available. Colchester Road, Essex, CM9 8HX Tel: 01621868888 www.cpcolchester.co.uk/
Surrounded by lavender, The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel in the pretty town of Newmarket, is the region’s first luxury destination spa and a haven of relaxation. The Spa offers a wealth of beauty and wellbeing benefits for guests and a wide range of indoor and outdoor spa facilities, including a hot tub with views over the paddocks and five different water experiences. The treatment menu offers a compact range of natural, holistic and result driven treatments for the face, body and mind. The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel offers day spa and residential spa breaks. Visitors can stay at the adjacent elegant Bedford Lodge Hotel, which features 77 stylish bedrooms and suites and have recently been upgraded as part of the hotels £9.5 million expansion programme. Prices start at £80.00 for a spa day and £135.00 for a spa break. The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel, Bury Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7BX. Tel: 0800 652 2991 www.bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk/contact eastlife.co.uk|43
Aqua Sana
Spa pool at Aqua Sana
In the heart of rural Suffolk is Aqua Sana, located in the beautiful Elveden Forest. With a focus on relaxation, the spacious lay out, modern interior and wide range of treatments have all been developed to help you unwind. Set over two levels, the spa has been renovated, expanded and modernised to provide pure relaxation. The hydro pools’ consistent heat helps to melt knots away. You can relax on a gently floating bed in the middle of the heated outdoor pool surrounded by nature or let cares drift away as you indulge in a soothing treatment. The spa has a number of packages for two available starting from £42 per person. Aqua Sana, Elveden Forest, Brandon Suffolk IP27 0YZ Tel: 08448 266 205 www.aquasana.co.uk/sanaspa/elveden
Mosaic seating at Sopwell House
Sopwell House If you’re looking for a tranquil haven then the spa at Sopwell House is an ideal retreat. Great for a spa day with friends or a luxury day on your own the facilities are perfect for escaping the stresses of everyday life. The spa and pool area has undergone extensive refurbishment and includes a Jacuzzi, starlit steam room, glass fronted sauna and mosaic-lined experience showers with heated seats. The contemporary decor of the spa is combined with refined Japanese elements and warm natural materials. LED feature lighting creates a relaxing ambience and the luxurious furnishings ensure your time here is an opportunity to unwind, reflect and recoup. Sopwell House Hotel, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 2HQ Tel: 01727 864477 www.sopwellhouse.co.uk
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Spas
The Gainsborough Health Club & Spa
Ufford Park Health & Spa
St Giles House Spa
The Gainsborough Health Club & Spa offers visitors the chance to enjoy views over swathes of countryside and gardens from the poolside at the spa housed in a contemporary conversion of 15th century timber-framed barns. Facilities range from a Jacuzzi, relaxation area, sauna and aromatherapy steam room for those looking for utter relaxation, to a fully equipped gym and tennis courts for the more energetic. The treatments list includes facials, massages with hot stone and full body treatments, manicure, pedicure and waxing, along with a host of options for the men out there.
Here, you’ll find a combination of luxury spa and leisure facilities. The luxury spa at Ufford Park is the only spa of its kind in Suffolk where a thermal suite provides ‘fire and ice’ experiences to stimulate the senses. The spa’s many features include a bubbling hydro pool with massaging water jets; a mineral grotto full of exotic fragrances, aroma steam room, soft sauna, ice fountain, tropical showers and relaxation zone. A warm, indoor swimming pool, superb gymnasium and exercise classes ranging from Pilates and yoga to circuit training and boxercise are also on offer to the more energetic of visitors.
Unwind in a world of blissful indulgence at The Spa at St Giles. The spa, owned by the four-star St Giles House Hotel, offers a comprehensive holistic approach to relaxation. It provides a deeply relaxing environment with treatments tailored to the individual. The five treatment rooms are spacious, calm places to retreat and unwind. The Spa offers a variety of award-winning brands to meet all of your needs, such as ila Organic Skin Care, Bare Minerals Make-Up, Calgel Overlays, Sienna X Tanning and the famous O.P.I Manicures and Pedicures. A number of day and overnight packages are available.
Cavendish, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 8BW. Tel: 01787 279009 www.thegainsborough.co.uk/health-club/
Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW. Tel: 01394386871. www.uffordparkspa.co.uk
5 St Giles St, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1JR Tel: 01603 275185 www.stgileshousehotel.com/spa/
The grounds at Ufford Park Spa
eastlife.co.uk|45
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Education
The Best Of
NO R F O L K Independent
Schools
One of the most important decisions you will make as a parent is deciding which school to enrol your child in. Make the right decision and you could put them on a path towards lifelong learning, a prestigious university education and a successful career. Simona Arcaro goes through some of Norfolk’s top independent schools to help you with your decision. All Saints School All Saints School is a small independent school in an idyllic rural setting in North Norfolk. The school was founded in 1987 and comprises a Junior and Senior department, welcoming children and young people from the age of 7 to 16. The school provides a stimulating and supportive learning environment in which all pupils, whatever their ability, have the opportunity to excel and develop their talents. With small class sizes, teachers can work individually with pupils. The school offers a rich, broad and balanced curriculum, with well planned lessons and focused teaching to enable all the pupils to achieve success. School Road, Lessingham, Norfolk NR12 0DJ. www.allsaintslessingham.co.uk.
Beeston Hall School Beeston Hall is an independent boarding and day school for boys and girls age 7 -13. Boarding schools are high on the lists of the most successful schools in the country and are an enriching way to spend the formative years. As one of the leading independent prep schools, Beeston is committed to the ethos of boarding and the huge benefits it can bring to the children, not least in that they leave school already understanding the values which are necessary for success in future years. To find out more about their programme, you get the chance to visit at either an open morning (the next one is on Saturday 10 May 2014) or by making a private appointment. West Runton, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 9NQ. www.beestonhall.co.uk.
Glebe House School This is an independent coeducational day and weekly boarding school since 1874. In a small environment, each child is known and nurtured individually – but always inclusively – in every aspect of school life. They are located close to North Norfolk’s coastline and so getting outside, enjoying nature and learning about the environment is part of the children’s learning. They embrace sport, both in physical education and through a wide range of activities, to ensure every child is part of a team. They are passionate about music, art and drama, and their pastoral care is independently recognised as a unique strength of the school. Cromer Road, Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6HW. www.glebehouseschool.co.uk. eastlife.co.uk|47
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Education Gresham’s School Gresham’s is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 3-18 years just four miles from the beautiful north Norfolk coast. With a proud history dating back to 1555 their mission is to put the design, delivery and support of a rounded education at the heart of all they do. The Sixth Form at Gresham’s is an intellectually vibrant and culturally creative environment where students benefit from outstanding teaching, an academically rigorous curriculum and the provision of exciting co-curricular opportunities. All serves to prepare them for successful lives beyond School. Don’t miss their next Open Day, on Monday 5 May 2014. Cromer Road, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EA. www.greshams.com.
Langley School
Hethersett Old Hall School Established in 1938, Hethersett Old Hall School is an independent day school for boys aged 3-11 and girls aged 3-18 with flexi, weekly and full boarding available to girls 9-18. They are a close-knit community of approximately 180 pupils with small class sizes of on average 10 pupils. They have three departments (Preparatory School, Senior School and Sixth Form) and children also belong to one of three Houses which further strengthen bonds across the year groups. They seek to maximise the potential of each individual, developing talents and skills. Their aim is to enable pupils to achieve the highest standards of which they are capable, and grow in self-confidence and self-belief. Norwich Road, Hethersett, Norwich, Norfolk NR9 3DW. www.hohs.co.uk.
Norwich High School For Girls
This is an independent coeducational boarding school situated in the market town of Loddon in South Norfolk.The school was founded in 1910 and exists to provide a first-class, all round education within a friendly, inclusive and supportive community. By focusing relentlessly on improving standards students will learn to be independent, valued citizens and develop their abilities to the full. They select co-educational boarders and day pupils, based on their overall potential, who are prepared to benefit from and be active partners in the continued success of Langley private schools. They offer a broad yet challenging curriculum with excellent teaching and learning opportunities, where the emphasis is very much on the individual student.
Norwich High School for Girls is an independent day school for girls Norwich. It was founded in 1875 and is one of the best academic records in Norfolk. The school encourages girls to have an aspirational and ‘can do’ outlook and works alongside them as they discover and explore new talents and interests. Commitment, hard work and consideration for others are expected of every member of their school community, whether in the classroom, the sports pitch, the stage or on a service project. The school fosters independence, confidence, individuality and a sense of fun. The tutorial system and quality pastoral care ensure that each girl is supported and encouraged. They organise a number of Taster Afternoons throughout the year.
Langley Park, Loddon, Norfolk, NR14 6BJ. www.langleyschool.co.uk.
95 Newmarket Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 2HU. www.norwichhigh.gdst.net. eastlife.co.uk|49
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Education Norwich School Norwich School is a co-educational, independent day school for pupils aged seven to eighteen. Set in the Cathedral Close, Norwich School is a traditional, yet lively place where boys and girls enjoy a rounded and stimulating education. The school is characterised by strong, warm relationships and a profound appreciation of scholarship. Norwich School is divided into two sections: the Lower School and the Senior School. The Lower School is the base for their 7-11 year old pupils (Years 3-6), while the Senior School caters for the 11-18 age range (Years 7-13). Staff and pupils together create a supportive atmosphere and boys and girls benefit from specialised facilities and a broad curriculum. 71a The Close, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 4DD. www.norwich-school.org.uk.
Taverham Hall Preparatory School Taverham Hall is a modern, forward-thinking independent school for boys and girls aged 2½ - 13 in Norwich, with traditional values embedded firmly at its roots; a place where academic excellence flourishes alongside creativity and fun. Every child is different, so finding the learning techniques that are right for them is essential. This provides children with the tools they need to guide them through their academic life. Their dedicated team works hard to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all children in their care. For those who board, on a weekly or flexi basis, Taverham Hall is a home-from-home. Taverham Hall children enjoy an enviable academic record and invariably gain places in the public schools of their choice. Taverham Hall School, Norwich, NR8 6HU. www.taverhamhall.co.uk.
St. Nicholas House School St. Nicholas House School is an independent Preparatory school, with a family feel. They specialise in providing a high quality academic learning in a caring, values-based environment, utilising an engaging curriculum. Pupils are enabled to strive for excellence by developing their academic, musical, sporting, artistic and personal potential individually and within the community. At St. Nicholas children are encouraged to develop a sense of responsibility and learn to play a worthwhile and meaningful role in the life of the community. The school offers a real alternative to parents seeking an independent, quality, all-round, caring and traditional educational environment. Yarmouth Road, North Walsham, Norfolk NR28 9AT. www.stnicholashouse.com.
Thetford Grammar School With a long history and established reputation across the region,Thetford Grammar School’s aim is the creative growth of every child: academic, physical, emotional, cultural and social. They are very aware that the world into which your child will emerge is a fast moving, ever changing one and that it is vital to embrace this challenge from the start. The main school (from Year 7) offers a broad curriculum based on a core of Maths, English, foreign languages and the sciences with a wide range of additional options from Art & Technology to Drama and PE, giving every individual the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Sport, travel, the arts and other extracurricular activities contribute to the social as well as the intellectual development. Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3AF. www.thetgram.norfolk.sch.uk. eastlife.co.uk|51
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Kitchens Photo credit: Simon Whitmore Photography
comeback...”
Brighten up I
f you’re bored of the same bland kitchen and stain less steel accessories its time to give the heart of your home some much needed character Following a time when an all-white kitchen reigned in the style stakes, it’s a pleasant surprise to see an abundance of colourful accessories burst onto the kitchen scene. A cheap and easy way to inject life into your kitchen the high street has plenty of fabulous accessories available. You can get passionate for pastel or have frivolous fun with a number of colourful patterned items. Make family dining more fun by adding a little colour to the kitchen table. There is a range of colourful oven to tableware dishes available, which can help brighten up the simplest of tables. Even a few coloured glass tumblers and jugs here and there can bring a kitchen back to life.
your kitchen Cate Burren, interior designer at Angel and Blume, Cambridge says: “The kitchen has changed from being a place where only cooking was done, to being at the centre of a home. Therefore we are seeing that accessories such as rugs, artwork, bookcases and table lamps are finding a place in the kitchen and are making it a much more attractive and comfortable place to spend time, even if there is no cooking on the agenda at all.” If you’re looking for more of an update than just accessories a monochrome interior will make a real style statement. Colours such as warm whites and grey tones such as charcoal are great for achieving the monochrome effect. Don’t feel like you need to stick to one colour, mix two or three complimentary colours. A favourite for this season is sunshine yellow and grey. Burren added: “Colour is making a huge comeback. The choices for
colourful tiles, units, flooring and accessories are getting better all the time and whilst I believe very strongly that your kitchen should last you a long, long time, I don’t believe the key to staying in love with your kitchen is to keep it neutral. If you love colour, those beige units are never going to be close to your heart.” The classic country kitchen style is still as popular as ever. Simple to achieve with natural materials, neutral tones and accessories you can get that rural taste wherever you happen to live. Bringing a little of the outdoors to the indoors with potted plants can instantly transform a plain kitchen to cosy country home. It’s time to breathe life back into your kitchen. With a fresh lick of paint, some splashes of colour or a few bright accessories you can soon have a space that is up-to-date and ready to be enjoyed by the whole family. Paintbrushes at the ready! eastlife.co.uk|53
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COLCHESTER IPSWICH 11 Peartree Business Centre Bypass Nurseries, London Road, Colchester, Capel St Mary, Ipswich, Essex CO3 0JN Suffolk IP9 2JR Call 01206 546111 Call 01473 312008 colchester@zigis.co.uk ipswich@zigis.co.uk
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COLCHESTER IPSWICH 11 Peartree Business Centre Bypass Nurseries, London Road, Colchester, Capel St Mary, Ipswich, Essex CO3 0JN Suffolk IP9 2JR Call 01206 546111 Call 01473 312008 colchester@zigis.co.uk ipswich@zigis.co.uk
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Exteriors
East Anglia’s got the hots for hot tubs Bring some bubbles to your garden this summer
T
here was a time when a hot tub in your garden was only associated with the wealthy. A survey by Camelot once revealed it was the number one purchase for a lottery winner, but with more options on the market it’s now easier and more affordable than ever before to have your own water haven. Hot tubs and spa pools offer a convenient place to relax and unwind. When it comes to sizes, colors, numbers of hydrotherapy jets and entertainment systems, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Before you take the plunge there are a number of points to take into consideration. Planning and research is essential; look at the space you have available, consider additional running costs and research how to look after your investment. Anthony Schneikert, managing director of Spa Solutions, Saffron Walden, Essex, advises: “When buying a hot tub the main things to consider is firstly to buy from a reputable hot tub dealer whereby you’re certain to have the correct installation and service. Too many people are lured to buying cheap imported alternatives, which can use a very thin acrylic shell material and are prone to leaking. “Secondly it’s important to work out the type and number of seating preferred within the hot tub. Some models come with lounger seats and others with upright seats. All seating positions give a different type of massage for the user. Using your hot tub should be a pleasurable experience and it’s there to enjoy. Showering prior to using your hot tub can also cut the amount of biofilm build up by 50 per cent.” Hot tubs are not just made for relaxing with friends and family as fun as it may be, more people are choosing them for health reasons too. Hot water and hydrotherapy using the hot tub jet action eases muscle pain, fatigue and soreness caused during exercise. This healing process through water enables the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. What could be better then your own private masseuse? Steam rising off hot water can help open up nasal and bronchial passages and improves circulation to aid in maintaining upper respiratory health. Many people find that soaking in a hot tub relieves headache pain, especially pain from tension. What ever your reasons for choosing a hot tub, be it to enjoy with friends and family or for your personal health, you’ll be amazed at the lifestyle it can offer. There are a number of reputable hot tub and hydrotherapy pool suppliers throughout East Anglia.
Images courtesy of Spa Solutions Tel: 01799 524271
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Swiss Laundry
“Let us supply you with a touch of class from our Short-Term Hire again! range of Table Linen”
Wear it Out again &
professional dry cleaning keeps clothes newer for longer
www.swisslaundry.co.uk
01223 868429 149 Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge CB1 7BY 62|eastlife.co.uk
Dry Cleaning
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Fitness Frenzy Eastlife takes a look at the regions best sporting facilities Let the games begin…
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Clay pigeon shooting It may not initially sound like hard work but if you’re not used to lifting heavy weights, a couple of hours clay pigeon shooting can certainly make those arm muscles ache. Great for groups and stag dos, there are a number of activity parks, which offer lessons among other activities including Suffolk Activities, Bury St Edmonds, and Wildtracks Activity Park, Newmarket, Cambridge.
he January blues are long gone so there’s no excuse to not get out and about and stretch those legs. If the idea of Lycra and pumping iron at the gym terrifies you, fear not, there’s lots of alternative ways of getting fit and healthy.
paintball Fun as much as it is brutal, paintballing will either have you laughing in hysterics or crying in pain. A fantastic day out especially for those with a competitive edge, paintballing has become a favourite past time for both teenagers and adults. Run around different shaped obstacles as you dodge paint bullets from your opponents while shooting back to ultimately be crowned the winner!
go-karting Push your foot to the pedal and go… Whether it’s inside or outside go-karting is an exhilarating experience. Great fun solo or as part of a group, there are a range of circuits throughout East Anglia that are well worth the trip.
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GOLF With stunning landscapes aplenty its no surprise that East Anglia has some of the best golf clubs in the country. Wherever you live in the region there are many courses where you can practice your swing. Described as a “hidden gem”, King’s Lynn Golf Club is a friendly and welcoming club. Located between the medieval port of King’s Lynn and the Royal Norfolk Estate of Sandringham it offers a challenging championship 18-hole course. There are a number of memberships available and visitors are welcome. The club has a history dating back to 1923 and a modernised clubhouse. In 1896, James Braid became a professional at Romford Golf Club and five-times Open Champion, putting Essex on the map as a golfing location. Fast-forward to the present day and you’ll discover a range of challenging courses. Take in the fresh air at the likes of the Royal Epping Golf Club and Boyce Hill Golf & Country Club in South Benfleet.
Health Gym & Leisure centres The want and need of staying fit has become something of a trend and one that has been recognised by many of our gyms and leisure centres. To keep up with people’s busy schedules and the demand for different means of exercise many gyms in the region have undergone multi-million pound transformations. One gym investing its time into an alternative sport is the Mid-Suffolk Leisure Centre in Stowmarket, Suffolk, which has developed its climbing wall facilites. The Cragg as its known, offers 32 rope lines and 110 routes at any one time at 8.5m high as well as a boulder wall with 70 rope lines. Nick Hart, climbing wall manager said: “Climbing has become the fastest growing sport in the UK. It’s a very popular choice with our members. Even many of our gym instructors are spending more time on the wall and less time in the gym!” yoga If the thought of climbing and running around is too much to bear, slow down with a little yoga. Enjoyable for all shapes, sizes and ages, yoga can significantly improve body posture and will teach you simple meditation through breathing control. There are also a number of classes available for mums-to-be. Anti-gravity yoga is a relatively new addition to the yoga world, yet is becoming an increasingly popular option. The idea of anti-gravity yoga is to provide a workout that focuses on stretching, strengthening and relaxation, without placing to much stress on joints or compressing the vertebrae. Using silky hammocks, you’ll learn to invert so that you can suspend yourself upside down. You’ll also use it as a seat for a variety of yoga moves that will also really work your abs, and learn to loop it around one foot so that it serves as a kind of stirrup for standing moves. Whether is Ashtanga, Bikram or hot yoga, you’ll be able to find a style and pace to suit your ability. Courses and classes are now available in most towns and villages at affordbale prices.
Activities for all ages Let’s face it swinging through the trees like Tarzan is fun at any age. Set in the heart of Britain’s largest lowland pine forest and surrounded by some of Britain’s most breath-taking scenery, Go Ape Thetford, near Brandon is sure to leave the whole family with a day they will never forget. Families, friends and tribes can spend two to three hours in the trees enjoying taking on zip wires, Tarzan swings, rope ladders and a variety of obstacles and crossings and finishing on a high (literally) with the wind in your face from epic zip wires. For parents wanting to inject a bit of adventure into their younger children’s holiday, Go Ape Tree Top Adventure Junior exists for this very reason. Children from the age of six can join in the fun and explore the canopy too. Taking place five metres above the forest floor, mini Tarzans can make their way through 20 looping obstacles including the spiders web. Great for the whole family, take on the challenge while enjoying the scenery from the treetops. It might sound like child’s play but it’s not for the faint hearted.
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Don’t keep it zipped up. Male health problems are something we are often a little reluctant to talk about. In fact, it’s estimated that 10% of the male population suffers in silence. But at the same time such concerns can be the cause of much stress and discomfort. So, when it comes to seeking advice on everything from prostate disorders to erectile dysfunction, talk to the Urology experts at Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital.
For more information or to book, contact: 01223 855 665 nuffieldhealth.com/cambridgehospital cambridge.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com
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Health
Understanding prostate cancer Prostate cancer is now the most common male cancer in the UK, affecting over 30,000 men every year. That equates to one man being diagnosed every 15 minutes. Discover everything you need to know...
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rostate cancer generally affects men over the age of 50 and is rarely found in younger men. It differs from other cancers in the body, in that small areas of cancer within the prostate are quite common and may stay dormant for many years. Most cases of prostate cancer develop very slowly and may never cause symptoms in a man’s lifetime, sometimes never needing treatment. In fact around 80 per cent of men over the age of 80 have a small area of prostate cancer and in many cases there is no cause for concern. Some other forms however are more aggressive and will need treatment to prevent the cancer spreading, which is why men, especially those with a family history of the disease, should be vigilant to symptoms and seek advice from their GP. The prostate gland itself is about the size of a walnut and lies underneath the bladder. It surrounds the urethra and its main job is to produce fluid that nourishes the sperm. Problems that arise with the prostate gland are very common, and include enlargement, inflammation or infection and cancer. Enlargement of the prostate gland is often found in men over the age of 50, with around 40 per cent of men suffering from urinary symptoms of some sort related to the condition. This is known as BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) and is not a form of cancer. Having BPH doesn’t put you at greater risk of developing prostate cancer, but the symptoms can be very similar and therefore seeing your GP for a correct diagnosis is very important. “Symptoms which should arouse suspicion include urinary frequency, getting up at night to pass water, urinary urgency and a poor stream,” explains Mr Christof Kastner, Consultant Urological Surgeon, and one of the prostate cancer
specialists at Cambridge Urology Partnership, based at The Nuffield Hospital, Cambridge. Other symptoms can include difficulty starting to pass urine, a feeling that your bladder has not emptied fully and dribbling urine. “It must be emphasised however, that most men with these symptoms have non-cancerous or benign prostate problems,” he concludes. It is important not to ignore any symptoms and to make an appointment with your GP if you have concerns. Very occasionally the first symptoms noticed are an ache or pain in the back, pelvis or hips, which could be a sign that the cancer has spread and is at a more advanced stage. These symptoms could also be caused by arthritis or other musculoskeletal problems however, so it’s always a good idea to get checked out by your doctor. The tests to diagnose prostate cancer include a PSA blood test, which measures the total amount of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) in your blood. A raised level may indicate that you have a problem with your prostate, but not necessarily cancer. If the PSA level is high, it can indicate further tests are needed such as a rectal examination, biopsy of the prostate gland, MRI, CT or bone scans. “At Cambridge Urology Partnership we offer high power MRI scans of the prostate which can help us to target abnormal looking areas of the prostate with our biopsy, and we were the first clinic in the UK to offer this using highly accurate purpose-built technology,” explains Mr Kastner. “This means that our biopsies are much more representative of any disease in the prostate, and we can be much more confident of the correct diagnosis, compared to a traditional biopsy.”
Deciding on the best treatment for prostate cancer isn’t always straightforward, and a diagnosis of the disease doesn’t always mean that it will cause problems or be life-threatening. A number of factors should be taken into account and will depend on the patient’s general health, age, size and position of the cancer, PSA level, likely side effects of treatment and patient’s own views about treatment versus the side effects. “Not all men who are diagnosed with the early disease will need treatment,” explains Mr Kastner. “Although for those who have more advanced stage cancer, newer treatments including surgery, brachytherapy (or radioactive seed implantation) and radio-therapy are generally highly successful and can reduce the impact on quality of life.” Treatment options should be discussed with your doctor, and will depend on the stage of the cancer and your own preference, but could include a combination of hormonal therapy, surgery, radiotherapy, brachytherapy (implant radiotherapy) or in the case of advanced cancer, chemotherapy. At Cambridge Urology Partnership all of these treatment options are possible. Sometimes, doctors just suggest ‘watchful waiting’ or ‘active surveillance’ as prostate cancer can grow very slowly, especially in older men. Though prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, it is also one of the most treatable, and survival rates are good. The general advice as always, is to see your GP if you have any symptoms as seeking early treatment improves the chances of a successful outcome. For a specilaist who can offer up to date methods to diagnose and treat any disease, call the CUP on 0800 756 7771. eastlife.co.uk|67
Not every child has the perfect start in life. With over 300 children in care in Peterborough, we need people from all walks of life and for all types of fostering to provide these children with a safe and happy home while they are unable to live with their own families.
01733 317427 • fostering@peterborough.gov.uk • www.peterboroughfostering.co.uk
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Health
AESTHETICS EVENING at SK Clinic + Spa 15 May 2014
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K Clinic + Spa is delighted to announce its popular Aesthetics Evenings are back for 2014, the first taking place on Thursday 15 May. Come along to their exclusive evening event, where you can meet their highly-trained staff and discover everything you need to know about our SK Clinic & Aesthetics Services. Its Pevonia Expert, Sarah St Ledger will be demonstrating the newly-launched Spa Clinica® PRO Micro-Retinol™ treatment - find out how to gently peel away years from your skin! Learn about IPL Hair Reduction and IPL Facial Photos, plus watch the Medical Microdermabrasion demonstration, which takes years off your complexion, providing immediate and visible results for ageing skin, lines and wrinkles, open pores, blackheads, pigmentation, blemish scars, acne scars, stretch marks and so much more! SK Clinic & Spa treatments have been developed to exceed the expectations of the client seeking resultsdriven treatments tailored to individual needs. SK will be offering FREE 15-minute consultations (must be pre-booked) with its expert
staff, special discounts, and make great savings on courses booked during the evening. Gift Vouchers will also be available, which make ideal presents, especially for birthdays. Light refreshments and nibbles will be served. Please contact SK on 01284748470 to book your 15-minute FREE Consultation - limited spaces available. SK Clinic + Spa is one of the finest health, beauty and wellbeing sanctuaries in East Anglia and will celebrate its sixth anniversary in July 2014. SK proudly holds an outstanding reputation for exceptional standards and award-winning spa care. SK is the flagship UK spa for renowned skin and spa care brand Pevonia, whose philosophy is to provide “unique, exclusive, and unforgettable” spa experiences for every guest.
For further information, please contact: Annalise Roper - PR Co-ordinator, SK Clinic + Spa. Annalise.Roper@skclinic.co.uk. 01449727024. www.skclinic.co.uk. n eastlife.co.uk|69
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Women’s Health
at Fitzwilliam Hospital
Fitzwilliam Hospital offer a full range of services for Women’s Health to give comfort and peace of mind. Our highly skilled consultants are supported by a team of specialist nurses and physiotherapists. •
One -Stop Breast Clinic
•
Postnatal Perineal Service
•
Menopause Clinic
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Menorrhagia (heavy periods)
•
Urogynaecology
•
Women’s Health Checks
Appointments to suit your lifestyle.
For more information please call our Hospital Service Advisor on:
01733 842 304 www.fitzwilliamhospital. co.uk Milton Way, South Bretton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE3 9AQ
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Cambridge Edition magazine
19/3/14
11:00
Page 1
transforming lives of all ages Sally lost 2st 7lbs Luke lost 4st 10lbs with 8 weeks of treatment
with 14 weeks of treatment
Luke before treatment
Sally before treatment
Weight Reduction & Contour Shaping WITHOUT SURGERY
www.alizonnecambridge.co.uk tel: 01954 488008 7 Hazlewell Court, Bar Road, Lolworth, Cambridge, CB23 8DS.
Health
Try something new with Alizonne Cambridge
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lizonne Cambridge is a new contemporary medical clinic dedicated to offering the revolutionary Alizonne Therapy® weight loss and body contouring treatment providing a safe, rapid and sustainable weight loss without surgery. This not only enables a patient to predictably and quickly achieve their ideal weight, and to stabilise it at that new level, but at the same time it helps to re-shape and contour their body, smooth the subcutaneous tissue and firm and tighten their skin. Originally developed in the Netherlands in the 1990’s it was introduced to the UK in 2006. Alizonne Cambridge is the only clinic in Cambridgeshire providing this treatment and is one of 21 clinics across the UK licensed to offer Alizonne Therapy®.
Alizonne Cambridge is a medical doctor led clinic where individual weight loss treatment programmes are created for each patient, taking into account not only their weight loss goals and any existing medical conditions but also their lifestyle. Alizonne Therapy® is suitable for many patients with various medical conditions including diabetes. Patients are medically monitored throughout including blood tests, and detailed body composition analysis to confirm that fat is being lost and not muscle mass. On completion of the treatment programme patients have free access to the clinic for a year for regular check ups and advice and guidance. For more information please contact Alizonne Cambridge 01954 488008 or visit www.alizonnecambridge.co.uk
Alizonne Therapy® consists of 4 key elements: 1. Medical grade ultrasound treatments to break down the subcutaneous fat stores 2. Skin tightening treatments to reduce the problem of saggy skin and re-contour the body, thereby addressing stubborn areas of fat which often remain after a typical diet 3. Alizonne nutrition based on high protein meal replacements plus a daily selection of salads and vegetables. This consists of over 50 different meal types including bread, pizza, pancakes, pasta, yoghurt, hot chocolate, cappuccino, cold drinks, a range of desserts and vegetarian and gluten free options 4. Maintenance phases where natural food groups are gradually re-introduced into the diet in a series of phases replacing the Alizonne nutrition
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Independent Diabetes Trust PO Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS. www.iddtinternational.org Charity Number: 1058284 Registered Number: 3148360
Health
The Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust introduces
the Type 2 Diabetes Management & Medication booklet
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he Diabetes Type 2 Medial and Management booklet has been produced to help people better understand the treatments available and the on-going management of their diabetes. The aim is to help them have a better understanding of the condition and to reduce the risk of developing long-term complications. From the telephone calls received by Insulin Dependent Diabetes Trust (IDDT) it’s understood that many people really do not get enough support and information and there is a general lack of education about the progressive nature of the condition. The booklet explains the different types of treatment and the ways in which different types of medication work, such as tablets and/or insulin. It also explains how the different types of insulins work, from long-acting to short-acting and the different ways of administering insulin from pens to insulin pumps. When people are first diagnosed it may be that a combination of a healthy, carbohydrate-controlled diet, together with exercise, will have the desired effect of lowering blood sugar levels. However, this may not be appropriate for everyone, so other medications may have to be used. There are a range of drugs that are used to treat Type 2 diabetes and these should be used alongside diet and exercise wherever possible. Treatment with insulin usually begins when the tablets you have been taking are no longer able to control your blood sugar levels sufficiently well. n Type 2 Diabetes – Management and Medication is available free of charge to people who live with diabetes and health professionals. For your copy contact IDDT: Telephone: 01604 622837 e-mail: martin@iddtinternational.org www.iddtinternational.org Postal : IDDT, PO Box 294,Northampton, NN1 4XS eastlife.co.uk|77
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Health
Taking the time to reminisce Enjoy the life stories of the residents of Highfield Private Care Home
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esident Derek Rupp, 87, was born in Brixton, South London and has enjoyed a vibrant life. Motorbikes were a real passion for Derek in his early twenties. By the time he was 24 he had opened his first florist in Shepherds Bush and then moved onto Clapham Junction where he and his wife enjoyed success. Derek moved home on several occasions before settling in Essex to be closer to his son. Derek has rekindled his interest in bikes and today enjoys the liberty his mobility scooter gives him. He can often be seen out and about in Saffron Walden and enjoys trips to Saffron Walden Common to take in the views. As time rushes by we all like to reflect and tell stories of our life
experiences. At Highfield Private Care Home the team of staff take the time and interest in listening to the fascinating lives the residents have enjoyed. By taking the time to listen and respect every resident, a care and activities programme can be tailored to suit each individuals needs. Highfield Private Care Home offers elderly residential, nursing and dementia care. For further information, pop in for a cup of tea and a chat with manager, Angie Silva and her team who offer a warm welcome. Highfield Private Care Home, Mandeville Road, Saffron Walden Essex CB11 4AQ Tel. 01799 524 936 www.highfieldprivatecarehome.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|79
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Arts Untitled Study by Jenny Creasy
ART SCENE COLLETTE HOEFKENS
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s May leads us headily towards the summer, so too, Mandell’s Gallery the world of art Elm Hill continues to Norwich unfold a bountiful NR3 1HN selection of superb T: 01603 626892 exhibitions and www.mandellsgallery.co.uk shows to enjoy. The leading, Norwich based, Mandells Gallery, are holding a retrospective exhibition of the work of Jenny Creasy, who died in 2010. Graduating from the Ealing School of art in the early sixties, Jenny’s work would appear to carry all the marks of the highly influential Newlyn and St Ives artistic groups. Although this is likely, as with so many artists from this era, her works were almost certainly born of her real life experiences. Whilst continuing to create art, she was utterly preoccupied with marriage and the raising of her first two children. Creasy moved to and settled in north Suffolk in 1982. She was eventually able to find time, space and contentment, through her second marriage to experimental artist Tony Casement. During this period she was able to explore and convey her thoughts and feelings through expressive and boldly constructed canvases of colour, shape and texture. Her works are not simply recordings of her life and opinions. They continue, in their own right and existence, to live and develop, as we view them today. Brightly painted primary and secondary coloured shapes, dance and come to rest between both sturdy and tentative lines. All are coiled to begin their steps again. n Jenny Creasy May 4th – 24th 2014
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t the National Horse Racing Museum, Newmarket, we Society of Equestrian Artists see an altogether more National Horse Racing Museum figurative exhibition. From April 99 High Street till July, you can peruse or Newmarket purchase from a collection of Suffolk works dedicated to “The golden CB8 8JH Horses of Turkmenistan”. Tel: 01638 667333 Featuring original oils, www.nhrm.co.uk watercolour, screen prints and sculpture, from the Society of Equestrian Artists, all works are inspired by the breathtakingly beautiful Akhal Teke horse. n
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astly, a quick trip south to Spring and Summer Collection 2014 Hertfordshire, takes us to my Norton Way gallery own establishment, Norton 51 Norton Way North, Way Gallery. May sees the start of Letchworth Garden City our Spring and Summer Hertfordshire Collection. SG6 1BH As always, there is a wide Tel:01462 685139 variety of subject and media, from www.nortonwaygallery.com over 20 artists, all chosen for their skill and commitment. From the traditional oils of David Hyde, Michael Alford and Anne Songhurst to the expressive and contemporary strokes and pallet of Christine Harrison and Sally Basset, there is a wealth of fine and contemporary art to be seen. This season we are particularly proud to welcome the wonderful “One and Only” horse sculptures from Florence based sculptor, Susan Leyland. Join us for quiet browse and glass of wine, or possibly to add to your own collection! n
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Arts
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hroughout May, Market Place Gallery in Olney, is pleased to host an exhibition by selected members of the Buckinghamshire Pottery and Sculpture Society. From quirky shoes and boots to delicate porcelain jugs, bowls and plates, and characterful chickens and sheep, there is a wonderful choice of different styles of works in ceramics and pottery to view. Some interesting pieces include delicate translucent bowls, which are illuminated by light and striking pieces of sculpture, plus much more. The exhibition is in addition to the continuing exhibition of work by artists throughout the UK. Currently on display are beautiful landscape works from Cliff Blakey and Rob Van Hoek. Be inspired by British craftspeople and take a trip to this fantastic gallery. The Market Place Gallery, Market Place, Olney, MK46 4AJ, For opening hours and more images, see www.marketplacegallery.co.uk.
Around the
Arts REGION T
his month the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds will be welcoming She Stoops to Conquer to its stage for a week, as the company Creative Cow bring another dose of high quality Georgian comedy drama to Bury following last year’s production of Charley’s Aunt. Filled with mayhem, merriment and misconceptions, She Stoops to Conquer is a comedy of both manners and errors. At over 200 years old, Oliver Goldsmith’s play about social awkwardness, practical jokes and comic confusion has an enduring appeal and will be brought to life in full period costume with a flamboyant flurry of ruffles, wigs, corsets. It will be a wonderful opportunity to not only enjoy this marvellous piece on stage, but to enjoy it in the Regency surroundings of the Theatre Royal. She Stoops to Conquer Tues 13th – Sat 17th May Tel: 01284 769505 or visit www.theatreroyal.org
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KA in Saffron Walden, Essex, will be holding an art exhibition in collaboration with The Animal Art Fair, from 1 to 17 May. There will be a showcase of a stunning selection of pieces from acclaimed military and sporting artist, Jeremy Houghton. Jeremy’s collection entitled ‘Ponies at War’ depicts how equestrian sport on the playfields helped influence the outcome on the battlefields during World War I. The store is delighted to be working alongside the Injured Jockey’s Fund and a percentage of the artwork sales on the private view on 1 May will go to this worthy cause. The Animal Art Fair was founded in 2010 to represent and showcase the best in contemporary animal art. Initially focused on one annual show exhibiting 40 artists, TAAF has grown in to a leading dealer in their field. 15 Church Street Saffron Walden Essex, CB10 1JW Telephone 01799 523954 www.animalartfair.com eastlife.co.uk|85
Park Life
There was a time when holiday parks had an image problem – but these days that has dramatically changed, as many parks go five-star without the sky-high prices
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f you think the holiday home of your dreams is out of reach think again. Though a Cotswold cottage or lavish London pad may still be on the pricey side, a park home or luxury lodge can make for a luxurious and affordable alternative. Whether you are looking for a short break or somewhere to holiday year round, holiday park accommodation can now match many boutique hotels in the style stakes. Nestled in remote countryside locations and set within well-maintained grounds luxury lodges are fast becoming one of the UK’s most sought after holiday homes. With large open-plan living areas and full cooking facilities, which can save families a fortune, a lodge is nothing short of a mini-mansion. Lodges are 86|eastlife.co.uk
generally double-glazed with central heating, which means they can be enjoyed year round. Many come with luxury features such real log burners, hot tubs and indoor saunas. Though it may seem like a relatively new concept to most, there are lots of reputable holiday parks, which offer this type of luxury accommodation. Cliff House Holiday Park in Dunwich, Suffolk, specialises in the sale of luxury log cabin style holiday homes and luxurious static caravans, while The Dream Lodge Group have state-of-the-art lodges and leisure homes available for sale, for ownership, holidays and investment across the south of England including a high-end park with an on-site five-star restaurant and three exlcusive lodge developments in North
Walsham, Norfolk. Plots on the park’s latest lodge development ‘The Gabels’ are now being sold. In the heart of the beautiful Cambridgeshire Fens, situated in-between Kings Lynn and Spalding, an exclusive community of luxury holiday homes has been created around a stunning 18-hole golf course and lake. Spanning over 150 acres of thoughtfully landscaped grounds, the Tydd St Giles Golf and Leisure Estate offers a hidden getaway for those wanting a second home or simply to holiday in style. From energy efficient, contemporary lodges on the lakeshore, to premium country homes that offer every comfort and luxury, each is built to exacting standards, comes fully furnished and fitted, and a 12 month season enables owners to
Holiday Homes
use their holiday home whenever they wish. Many holiday parks cater for its target audience so whether you are retired and are looking to enjoy some peace and quiet in the countryside or are a family wanting adventure you’ll be able to find something to suit your needs. Most parks will have a number of facilities from restaurants and swimming pools to golf courses and professionally run clubs for children. There are plenty of country and coastal locations to choose from. If you fancy throwing open the doors and breathing in the refreshing smell of sea air every morning then Waterside Park could be your ideal location. Nestled between the seaside towns of Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth the park is set in seven acres of established
grounds, which overlooks the sea in the village of Corton and offers a mix of two or three bedroom bungalows and three bedroom villas. For those that want to take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful English countryside Park Resorts have a great range of static caravans for sale in Norfolk and Lincolnshire to suit a wide range of budgets. Each park is ideally positioned to make the most of its location with an array of attractions and local amenities nearby – enough to keep the whole family entertained. Buying a holiday home may be easier than you think. Help is on hand to provide simple cost effective ways of purchasing your holiday home. Most luxury park and lodge companies will be able to assist with arranging finance
to secure the purchase of your lodge or can even help to part exchange your home through the assistance of a safe and recommended agent. Owning a holiday home is a fantastic opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and with so many wonderful historic market towns and hidden gems throughout East Anglia waiting to be discovered you will simply be spoilt for choice. Cliff House Tel: 01728 648282 Tydd St Giles Tel: 01524 888206 Waterside Park Tel: 0844 474 3142 The Dream Lodge Group Tel: 0845 123 6333
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Suffolk Restaurants
Top
Restaurants in Suffolk Feeling Peckish? Take a look at Trip Advisor’s reigning top 10 Suffolk restaurants to help you decide where to eat this month…
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EDWARDS Suffolk’s number one hotspot for breakfast and brunch. A small family run restaurant/café in the middle of Halesworth, Edwards prides itself on serving delicious homemade lunches, cakes and pastries. 59a Throroughfare, Halesworth IP19 8AR Tel: 01986 873763 THE GREAT HOUSE RESTAURANT Renowned as one of the best restaurants in the East of England, The Great House offers a fabulous dining experience, deep in the Suffolk countryside. Visitors can enjoy quality French cuisine in the setting of an English country house. Market Place, Lavenham CO10 9OZ Tel: 01787 247431 THE GREYHOUND INN Set in a beautiful 14th Century public house , the Inn creates and serves British pub food at its best. The menu offers classic pub grub alongside local game and fish dishes. There’s a great choice of local ales and a growing malt whisky collection. The Street, Pettistree IP13 0HP. Tel: 01728 746451
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SEASONS AT 103 A friendly and welcoming establishment recommended for its great customer service, the Seasons at 103 is a great little place to grab a coffee and cake. 103 High Street, Needham Market, IP6 8DQ: Tel: 01449 726003
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MAISONS BLEUS RESTAURANT Winner of the Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice Award 2013 for ‘Traveller’s Favourite Dining Restaurant’ the Maison Bleus offers French fine dining in a modern and welcoming environment. 30/31 Churchgate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1RG Tel: 01284 760623
SUTHERLAND HOUSE A regular recipient of rave reviews, it’s no surprise this seafood restaurant ranks high as one of Suffolk’s top restaurants. Expect delicious fresh seafood dishes, a friendly service and relaxed atmosphere. 55 High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DN. Tel: 01502 724 544
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THE CHERRY TREES Great food and great value for money is the key to The Cherry Trees success. If you’re looking for a tasty Sunday lunch or hearty British food, then this is a must visit. Bury Road, Newmarket, Stradishall, CB8 8PS Tel: 01440 820215 CASE RESTAURANT Recognised by the English Tourist Board for its quality menu and accommodation, the Case Restaurant offers a fabulous range of European dishes each beautifully presented. Assington, Sudbury, CO10 5LD Tel: 017887 210483 WINCHESTER’S WINE BAR One of Stowmarket’s best kept secrets, great for lunch, a light bite with friends or an evening out. The bistro menu offers a mix of mouth-watering European and continental dishes.
7 Old Fox Yard, Ipswich Street, Stowmarket .Tel: 01449 770023
10
THE BLUE BOAR Top quality food at affordable prices, the refreshing menu is created using locally sourced produce and has a selection of carefully chosen drinks to accompany the dishes available, an all round trip worthy establishment. The Street, Walsham le Willow, Bury St Edmunds, IP31 3AA Tel: 01359 259168
Please note that listings were correct at the time of print but are subject to change.
The Great House Restaurant
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This quiet, hideaway in the countryside is perfect for a relaxing self catering break for couples or groups of friends The four, adults only, log cabins each feature two large stylish en-suite bedrooms, hot tubs and a dining deck over the water Ideally located for golf, walking, cycling, trips to Constable country and the stunning Suffolk coast
Luxury Lakeside Log Cabins
Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk | 01473 652149 www.suffolkescape.co.uk | info@suffolkescape.co.uk Peace & Tranquillity | Hot Tubs | Dining Over Water | Wood Stoves | Spa Treatments | Food Experiences
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Norfolk THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 3 May Humble Boy Play blending Ayckbourn’s comedy of family relationships with Stoppard’s wit. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 1 - 3 May Dial M For Murder Frederick Knott’s intense thriller arrives in Norwich as part of a UK tour, starring Christopher Timothy as Inspector Hubbard. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 3 May Noah: A Musical Adventure Saltmine Theatre Company presents Noah, a Musical Adventure with Doug Horley playing the title role. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 3 May A Bad Penny Day-Star theatre weave a comic and thought provoking tale of one small rural community at a time of emerging social change just fifty years after the outbreak of the first world war. Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-sea, 01328 710193 3 May Cowards in the Wings This entertaining show is a tribute to the lesser known songs of Noel Coward, starring Helen McDermott and Adrian Wright. Sheringham Little Theatre, Sheringham, 01263 822347 6 - 10 May The Two Worlds of Charlie F Winner of the 2012 Amnesty International Freedom of Expression Award, The Two Worlds of Charlie F is performed by serving and veteran soldiers, and explores the effects of injury and its impact on others, before, during and after. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 6 - 28 May Summer Laughter Show Comedy brought to you by Olly Day and Mr Nigel ‘Boy’ Syer. Songs and Glamour from Mr Andy Pelos and Miss Krissi Jae. Pavilion Theatre, Gorleston, 01493 662832 7 - 10 May East Norfolk Operatic Society Present Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘H.M.S Pinafore’ and ‘Trial By Jury’. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 8 May Blackadder Goes Forth The Seagull Rep present a recreation of the first three episodes of the classic BBC comedy series. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241 10 May An Evening with Ray Davies In an evening hosted by rock musician, author and cartoonist Peter Blegvad, Davies will talk about his biography Americana: The Kinks, The Road, and the Perfect Riff. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 10 May Ballet Virtuoso This diversely varied programme commences with Les Sylphides Variations. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252 13 - 17 May A Midsummer Night’s Dream Northern Ballet presents the romantic antics of a touring dance company played out as the Company travels by sleeper train from London to Edinburgh. Norwich Theatre Royal, 01603 630000 15 May An Evening with Pam Ayres Pam Ayres brings her latest show to Cromer
following the recent publication of her new book of poetry, ‘You Made Me Late Again!’ Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495
Award winning play stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598
16 May Love Steals Us From Loneliness SecondSide Theatre Company presents this unusual, contemporary play by Gary Owen. Sheringham Little Theatre, Sheringham, 01263 822347
28 May Rich Hall Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and the king of rapid-fire wit. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, 01553 764864
16 - 17 May The Open Couple A satirical and farcical black comedy about modern marriage from one of Italy’s greatest playwrights... and her husband! Starring Dario Fo and Franca Rame. Westacre Theatre, King’s Lynn, 01760 755800
31 May Jimmy Carr ‘Funny Business’ is Jimmy’s brand new stand up show. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864
16 - 17 May Stepping Out A comedy about the attempts of some working class amateurs to overcome their inhibitions and left feet in a low-rent dance studio in North London. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252 18 May Stars From Strictly Starring Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilas and their spectacular dancers. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 18 May John Hurt in conversation with John Granger A discussion between acclaimed actor John Hurt and the man who inspired his route into acting, John Granger who taught Hurt at Lincoln School. The two men renewed their acquaintance when Hurt moved to Norfolk. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598
MUSIC 1 May The Rifles The indie band tour in support of their new album, ‘None the Wiser’. Support comes from Sean McGowan. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 2 May Ezio Ezio Lunedei (singer/guitarist) and Mark “Booga” Fowell (guitarist) play Rock ‘n Roll on acoustic guitars. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 3 May The Drifters Featuring the current line-up of Pierre Herelle, Michael Williams, Ryan King and Carlton Powell. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, 01553 764864 4 May Olly Day and the Jonathan Wyatt Big Band A music and comedy show, Olly Day shares the stage with the fabulous Jonathan Wyatt Big Band. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495
19 May Bitch Boxer Snuff Box Theatre presents this modern play about a woman in a man’s world. Sheringham Little Theatre, Sheringham, 01263 822347
6 May Polly and the Billets Doux The quartet are gearing up to release their second album by playing a scattering of UK gigs. The Bicycle Shop, Norwich, 01603 625777
20 May Hot Flush! Starring Lesley Joseph. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864
7 May Jimi Goodwin The Doves frontman is back with a new solo album and tour. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050
20 - 24 May Three Colours With the use of projection, light, puppets, music and dance, this immersive performance promises to delight and tickle the imagination of the young. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 6299214
8 May Mugenkyo Thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums, a spellbinding display of sheer athleticism. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864
22 - 31 May The Last of The Haussmans A dark, savage and very funny portrait of a chaotic and dysfunctional family. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 23 - 24 May Up Pompeii Baroque Theatre Company present this hilarious romp through ancient Pompeii. Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710193 23 - 24 May Two A funny and intensely dramatic play by Jim Cartwright. Westacre Theatre, King’s Lynn, 01760 755800 24 - 31 May Oliver! An amateur production by Cromer & Sheringham Operatic & Dramatic Society. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495 27 - 31 May Betty Blues Eyes Smash-hit musical comedy based on Alan Bennett’s ‘A Private Function’. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 28 - 29 May Morecambe This Olivier
8 May FISH The former lead singer of Marillion embarks on a UK tour, billed as “The Moveable Feast Tour”. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 9 May Martin Alvarado Argentina’s world renowned tango vocalist will be accompanied by tango musician Claudio Constantini on piano and bandoneón. Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710193 10 May Chamber Music Concert Featuring the Gould Piano Trio and clarinetist Robert Plane. Holkham Hall, Wells-nextthe-Sea, 01328 711008 11 May Robert Cray America’s finest blues guitarist comes to Norwich. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 11 May Glenn Miller Orchestra Ray McVay presents the world’s greatest Big Band live in concert with the Moonlight Serenaders and the swinging jazz band, The Uptown Hall Gang. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, 01553 764864
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Norfolk 14 May The Fureys Legends of Irish music & song, The Fureys & Davey Arthur, head to Cromer. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495 16 May Kim Richey An evening of Country music with the American singer/songwriter. Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710193
pop, prog and classical music to enthralling effect. The Waterfront Studio, Norwich, 01603 508050
17 May Gerry Cross the Mersey Join in this musical journey through the life and times of one of our greatest 60s icons. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495
30 May Dominic Kirwan An evening spanning Folk, Country and Popular music. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252
17 May Norfolk Symphony Orchestra Vaughan Williams - Symphony No.2 “London”, Moeran - Violin Concerto and Arnold - Peterloo Overture. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864
ART & EXHIBITIONS
18 May Larry Miller Blues/rock guitarist. The Waterfront Studio, Norwich, 01603 508050 20 May Madeleine Peyroux Peyroux’s star is on the rise, as she comes to Norwich to perform music from her new album ‘The Blue Room’. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 20 May Phronesis The jazz band tour in support of their most recent album, ‘Life to Everything’. Diss Corn Hall, 01379 652241 21 May Hugh Masekela South Africa’s Hugh Masekela’s soaring, joyful trumpet sound brims with warmth and bristles with elements of jazz, hip-hop and funk. Norwich Theatre Royal, 01603 630000 21 May S. Carey S.Carey (of Bon Iver) tours with his new solo album, ‘Range of Light’. Norwich Arts Centre, 01603 660352 22 May Toumani Diabaté World music stars from Mali. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 23 May Narek Hakhnazaryan The Armenian cellist plays pieces by Beethoven, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Rachmaninov and Rostropovich. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 24 May The Hoosiers The Tour from Nowhere. OPEN, Norwich, 01603 508050 24 May The Stars of British Jazz This group recreates the traditional jazz popular in Britain in the 1950s and 60s. Sheringham Little Theatre, 01263 822347 25 May Halfway To Paradise Billy Fury tribute with his original band. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 27 May Miranda Sykes & Rex Preston The rare fusion of double bass & mandolin. Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710193 27 May Tir na nOg Folk duo, formed by Leo O’Kelly & Sonny Condell. The Bicycle Shop, Norwich, 01603 625777 28 May Illerstate Rising Hip-Hop trio, Sadiztik, Bad Newz and Dubz. The Waterfront Studio, Norwich, 01603 508050 29 May Moulettes Moulettes weave folk,
30 May Mark Grist: Rogue Teacher The former school teacher and poet laureate of Peterborough hits the road with a unique blend of poetry and hip-hop. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598
1 May - 14 Dec Sense and Sensuality: Art Nouveau 1890 - 1914 In this major exploration of the Art Nouveau style, works from the collection of Gretha Arwas and Anderson Collections, among others, will explore the sensual and psychologically intense nature of the style and the period. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 1 - 3 May Spring Forth! Full of the colours and promise of the new season, Spring Forth! features exquisite original prints by a range of UK artists with uplifting scenes of flowers, wildlife, the countryside and more. The Assembly House, Norwich, 01603 626402 1 May - 31 Oct Duty Calls: Holkham 1914 to 1918 Holkham Hall’s exhibition for 2014 will commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the start of WW1. The exhibition will tell a small part of the story of the war’s impact on the Coke family and Holkham village. Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710227 1 May - 27 July Monument: Aftermath of War and Conflict A collaboration between four English and French institutions dedicated to the commemorations on either side of the Channel of the 100th anniversary of the First World War, as well as to the 70th anniversary of the Normandy landings. Exhibitions, performances, events, talks, publications and conferences are planned. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, N orwich, 01603 593199 1 - 30 May Elaine Pamphilon / Christopher Marvell / Cristina Zani Paintings by Elaine Pamphilon, Bronze sculpture by Christopher Marvell, and Jewellery by Cristina Zani. Bircham Gallery, Holt, 01263 713312 1 May - 24 Aug John Virtue: The Sea Renowned painter John Virtue moved to live on the North Norfolk Coast in 2009 and, since that time, has been making a new body of work. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 1 - 11 May Norfolk Scribes: Letters after Lindisfarne An exhibition by the Norfolk Scribes based on a contemporary response to the Lindisfarne Gospels. Norwich Cathedral, Norwich, 01603 628319 1 May - 29 March Henri Matisse Sculp-
ture: The Backs These monumental works by Matisse are shown in the east-end gallery project space in direct dialogue with the Sainsbury Collection. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 5 May - 28 June Picture the Poet Exhibition bringing together images of some of the most important poets of our times, captured by equally well known photographers living today. Benjamin Zephaniah, Simon Armitage and Carol Ann Duffy are just some of the poets included in this digital exhibition from the National Portrait Gallery. The Forum, Norwich, 01603 727950 24 May - 14 Sept The Wonder of Birds This exhibition explores the cultural impact of birds upon mankind. Comprising of six sections, each highlighting a different aspect of birds, their meanings and our relationships with them. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, 01603 493625 29 May - 23 June TARDIS Exhibition: Where Do Monsters Come From? The TARDIS (Thinking, Arts, Reflection, and Dialogue & Imagination Studio) gives young children a voice and space in which to explore, question and create in a spirit of independence and playfulness. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352
SPECIAL EVENTS 9 - 11 May Folk on the Pier Now in its 16th year, Norfolk’s largest event of its kind, promises another stellar line-up. Headlined by a return to the pier by Home Service, the 2014 programme will also feature a number of international acts including Italian ‘squeezebox’ maestro Ricardo Tesi, Canadian songstress Eilleen McGann and the Guichen brothers from Brittany. Outside of the instrumental acts will be amply represented by the likes of longstanding names Jez Lowe, Richard Digance, Michael Chapman, Harvey Andrews and Roger Davies. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495 9 - 25 May Norfolk & Norwich Festival The Norfolk and Norwich Festival is a celebration of creativity, innovation, beauty and diversity with jazz, classical music, comedy and dance. Highlights of the Festival include Opus No 7, exploring artistic rebellion against an autocratic state, a World Premiere from Norfolk-based theatrical ensemble curious directive and a return to the Theatre Royal by dance iconoclast Michael Clark. Venues throughout Norfolk and Norwich, 01603 877750 16 - 18 May Cromer & Sheringham Crab & Lobster Festival A weekend celebration of two lovely coastal towns, Cromer and Sheringham. Historically great rivals, but now joining together as two of Norfolk’s premier seaside destinations. Festival day is in Cromer on the Saturday and in Sheringham on the Sunday. A Fabulous Feast of Fun, Food, Art, Music, Heritage & Entertainment. Venues throughout Cromer and Sheringham, www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk
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Diss
Diss
Delightful
A
delightful market town in Norfolk, which lies in the valley of the River Waveney, Diss offers a charming mix of history and culture. What’s the history? Since the time of the Domesday survey the town has been known as Dic, Dize, Disce, Dysse, Dis and Diss. The Anglo-Saxon name ‘Dic’, means ‘ditch of standing water’, and this may relate to the mere (lake), which is estimated to be around 20 feet deep and covers around six acres. Described in the Domesday Book as a ‘moderately sized Royal Manor of no great importance’, the town began to grow from strength to strength when the market was established over 500 years ago. Flemish weavers came across the Channel and for many centuries wool and linen became the chief industries. To the south-west of the town centre lies Fair Green which was first granted a Royal Charter in 1185 and such activities as bull baiting and cock fighting took place until the fair closed in 1872.. The Green is now the location for modern day travelling fairs and circuses. The late Poet Laureate, John Betjeman, voted Diss his favourite Norfolk town. After his first visit to the town, Betjeman became involved in its preservation and his patronage has undoubtedly helped the town centre retain its charm.
Things to see and do Nearby Bressingham Steam Museum is a working indoor and outdoor steam museum that hosts exhibits and also has five miles of narrow gauge steam railway over three different rides. The gardens of Bressingham are worth exploring too, while the museum is also home to a Dad’s Army exhibition, which comprises a recreation of the show’s fictional home Walmington on Sea. Low Road, Bressingham, IP22 2AA. Tel: 01379 686900. The Diss Museum is an unassuming presence in the town, but one not to be missed with its fascinating exploration of local history. A round of golf can be enjoyed at the Diss Golf Club while kids can have their fun at the indoor play and party centre Monsters. Stuston Common, Diss, IP21 4AA. Tel: 01379 641025
beautiful walled garden, picnic spots and a restaurant. The Diss Tourist Information Centre can be found on Mere Street. Shopping Market days are every Friday, coinciding with a local antiques and collectables auction held at Gazes Saleroom. Speciality markets, flea markets (first and third Saturdays of the month ) and farmers markets (every second Saturday) are also held regularly. Shoppers can an visit an eclectic mix of shops and are often accompanied by music from local buskers. The shops are arranged around four courtyards, so you will soon be able to associate specific shops with each, all amid superb Georgian and Edwardian buildings. n
Exploring the town From the park, feed the ducks on the Mere on the way into Mere Street, to the very top of the town where Norfolk Yard and Cobbs Yard can be found. There are a few small eating-places and restaurants to choose from on the way. A little further afield there’s Thornham Walks, on the A140 just south of Diss, a place to really explore and get lost in, with a
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Coast al Cromer T
he pretty seaside town of Cromer is perched on the beautiful North Norfolk coast. It enjoys stretches of soft sandy beach, little streets filled with interesting shops and plenty of places to enjoy great food like Cromer crab. Cromer is excellent for day visits, weekend breaks and family holidays. History The town has a traditional pier complete with a theatre providing special seaside variety shows, and, as you would expect from a seaside town rich in its fishing heritage, it has a lighthouse and a proud tradition of RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) service. Shopping & culture Here you will find a vibrant yet traditional Norfolk town with a huge choice of shops all independently owned; many having been passed down through the years. In addition to traditional seaside shops selling buckets and spades and the usual seaside gifts, shopaholics have a selection of local art galleries, homeware stores, clothing boutiques for both men and women and fashion accessory stores to choose from.
Cromer
The Jarrolds Cromer store has been on the same site for over 100 years, serving not only the local community but also many of the visitors that come to the scenic area each year. For the family, the award winning Sticky Earth Ceramic café, now in its 12th year, is where you can choose from a selection of activities like pottery painting, to suit all ages and interests. For the energetic, climb 172 steps to the top of the medieval St Peter and St Paul’s Church (thought to be the tallest church in Norfolk) where you will be rewarded with some of the best views of the surrounding area.
of their ingredients locally sourced for breakfast, light lunches and afternoon tea.
Places to eat The town has a large choice of restaurants and cafes with not a single coffee shop chain or national eating and drinking venue to be found. Instead you have cafes, bars and restaurants owned and operated by local residents. Cromer is known for its ‘Cromer crab’ with lots of establishments selling the towns famous delicacy. Renowned for their scones and cake, Café Main is a family-run restaurant that specialises in preparing delicious homemade food with many
What’s on? Folk on the Pier, 9 – 11 May Folk on the Pier is held every year at the Pavilion Theatre on Cromer Pier. www.folkonthepier.co.uk
Places to stay The Grove has been a family-run guest house providing high-quality accommodation since 1936. There is plenty of space to unwind for both adults and children, whether splashing about in the indoor heated swimming pool, knocking a table tennis ball around, or even exploring the three acres of glorious gardens with their tree-house and trampoline. 95 Overstrand Rd, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 0DJ. Tel: 01263512412.
Crab & Lobster Festival, 16 – 17 May Get ready for a weekend of all things Cromer! The event kick starts with the Grand Opening Variety Concert at the Pier Pavilion Theatre followed by a festival day and food theatre where visitors can learn more about the towns recipes and dishes. www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk
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Kelvedon Hatch
Secret Nuclear Bunker Come and witness the three lives of the bunker starting with its role as an RAF ROTOR Station, then a brief period as a civil defence centre through to its most recent life as a Regional Government HQ. Designed for up to 600 military and civilian personnel, possibly even the Prime Minister, their collective task being to organise the survival of the population in the awful aftermath of a nuclear war.
events filler_Layout 1 21/02/2012 15:05 Page 1 Tel: 01277 364883 Email: mike@japarrish.com www.secretnuclearbunker.com
Not only will you find over 3000 events on our website - you can add your own, too!
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Essex THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 3 May The Odd Couple A female adaptation by Neil Simon of his own hit comedy, sees easy-going divorcee Olive Madison take in the neurotic and recently-separated Florence Unger. Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 1 - 3 May Our Country’s Good The powerful true story of a ragbag cast of convicts, who put on a play under the guidance of an earnest young marine officer. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 1 May Tap Factory A brand new show in the genre of Stomp, Tap Dogs and Blue Man Group. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 2 May Brian Conley Brian Conley returns to the stage in this all-new touring show. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 686633 2 - 5 May Scooby Doo Scooby-Doo and the gang are back by popular demand and with even more Spooky Mystery and fun this time in ‘The Mystery of the Pyramid’. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 3 May Jimmy Carr Jimmy returns to Clacton with his brand new show ‘Funny Business’. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 686633 6 May Paul Hollywood Get Your Bake On’ will see Great British Bake Off star Paul Hollywood demonstrate recipes, reveal some of the secrets of being a TV chef and take the audience on a journey through his life in baking. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 7 - 10 May Tommy The original Rock Opera is presented by Leigh Operatic and Dramatic Society. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 8 - 10 May The Real Inspector Hound In Tom Stoppard’s farcical “play within a play”, two theatre critics, Moon and Birdboot, watch a country house murder mystery. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 8 May Steve Hewlett Steve and his cast of zany characters, along with international award winning illusionist Richard Griffin, take a brand new, spectacular show on the road, ‘Thinking Inside The Box’. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 8 May A Night of Dirty Dancing Theatrical treat features all the hits from one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time. Go and have te time of your life. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 9 - 10 May The Energy Show Science Museum Live presents ‘The Energy Show’: explosive family theatre for curious minds. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505
9 - 24 May Saturday Night and Sunday Morning Classic kitchen sink drama blended with high-energy action and a toetapping soundtrack makes this funny, sexy, heart-rending show a must see. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 9 May The Seagull Chekhov’s play interweaves both comic and tragic threads in the lives of a famous actress, her son and their lovers. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 9 May Jethro 2014 Cornish comedy legend Jethro is back, as large as life, and on tour in 2014 with his very own unique brand of irresistible West Country tales for a fun-filled night of adult comedy. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 10 May Peter Antoniou Following his brilliantly successful 2013 Edinburgh show, the award-winning ‘psychic’ comedian, Peter Antoniou performs his show Comedium at the BAC. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354 13 - 17 May Little Women Presented by The Wednesday Players. Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 13 - 17 May Calamity Jane An hilarious fun filled family show, with some show-stopping numbers including Secret Love, The Deadwood Stage and Windy City. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 13 May Suggs In Suggs: My Life Story the Madness frontman takes to the stage in a hilarious, yet moving, one man tour de force. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 14 May Josh Widdicombe Star of Channel 4’s ‘The Last Leg’, Josh Widdicombe in his critically acclaimed tour ‘Incidentally…’. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 14 - 24 May Blood Brothers - the play Written by Willy Russell back in 1981 as a play, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Old Court Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 15 - 17 May What The Butler Saw Joe Orton’s breakneck farce, with dark and sinister twists and turns. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 16 - 17 May Morecambe This Olivier Award winning play stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 16 May - 7 June Godspell From John and Judas to prophets and parables, Godspell retells a timeless tale in a gloriously colourful way. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333
18 May Sam Brady Comedian and failed Buddhist monk Sam Brady explores his ongoing struggle to be a good person in ‘Kindness’. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 18 May Formby In a unique one-man performance Ewan Wardrop plays the role of Formby, as well as all the key characters involved in this fascinating slice of his life. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 18 May Lee Hurst One of the UK’s sharpest comedians is back on the road to find out what really gets on our nerves in his new show, ‘Things That Make You Go Aaarggh!!!’ Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 19 - 20 May The Devil at Midnight A spine-tingling, psychological, morally searching and topical thriller. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 21 - 25 May The Sound of Music Amateur production. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 21 May Ben Norris After a fantastic time supporting Ed Byrne on his national tour Ben Norris is hitting the road on his own, ‘Mr Ambiguousness’. Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 21 - 23 May Hot Flush! Share in the friendships, the secrets, the laughs, the tears and the ups and downs of four ordinary women – and one man – living extraordinary lives. Starring Lesley Joseph. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 23 May Tormenta Flamenca Tormenta Flamenca (Flamenco Storm) bring their world class show, ‘La Vida’ (Life) to Colchester Arts Centre. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 24 May Edinburgh Work in Progress Featuring Tommy Rowson and Matt Forde. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 26 - 31 May Derren Brown’s Infamous The acknowledged master of psychological illusion returns to the stage with his latest show, demonstrating once again why Derren is one of the world’s most renowned live performers. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 26 May Rat Pack Live Join the UK’s number one Dean, Sammy and Frank live concert extravaganza, be taken back to the swinging Vegas days. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 27 - 31 May The Two Worlds of Charlie F Winner of the 2012 Amnesty International Freedom of Expression Award, The Two Worlds of Charlie F is performed by serving and veteran soldiers, and explores the effects of injury and its impact on others, before, during and after. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948
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Joseph Beuys Keith Coventry Tony Cragg Richard Deacon Antony Gormley Roger Hiorns Damien Hirst Des Hughes Anish Kapoor Richard Long Sarah Lucas Paul McDevitt Bruce McLean Bruce Nauman Paul Nobel Thomas Schütte Simon Starling Rachel Whiteread
Group bookings visits@henry-moore.org T: 01279 844104
The Henry Moore Foundation Perry Green, Herts, SG10 6EE Registered charity No. 271370
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henry-moore.org/bodyandvoid
Echoes of Moore in Contemporary Art 1 May — 26 Oct 2014
Essex 28 May - 1 June Half A Sixpence Solomon Artistes re-create the heart warming story of Arthur Kipps, an orphan, who lives and works with other apprentices for the cruel draper, Mr Shalford. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 29 - 31 May Les Miserables Presented by Rare Youth Theatre. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945
MUSIC 1 May Stacey Kent - In Concert Grammy-nominated singer, Stacey Kent, brings her new album, The Changing Lights, to Harlow Playhouse. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 2 May Buddy Holly’s Winter House Party Tribute show. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 3 May Worbey and Farrell - Deviations on a Piano Worbey and Farrell are internationally acclaimed concert pianists witha wicked sense of humour, combining musical thrills with a deep love of laughter. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 4 May The Glenn Miller Orchestra The show features the fabulous harmonies of the Moonlight Serenaders, the sublime vocals of Catherine Sykes and Colin Anthony and the swinging jazz band, The Uptown Hall Gang. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 4 May Gabrielle Ducomble Jazz vocalist Gabrielle Ducomble and her band perform numbers from her new album, ‘Notes from Paris’. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 4 May Steemy Dan A ten-piece Steely Dan tribute. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 11 May Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Vaughan Williams: Wasps Overture, Elgar: Cello Concerto and Tchaikovsky: Symphony No.6. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 11 May The Liam Gundy Band The Americana and roots artist returns with his band for a rocking evening. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 11 May The Barron Knights The Barron Knights return to the Playhouse to have you rockin’ and laughing as well as rolling. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 12 May Spiers & Boden The folk duo, and founding members of Bellowhead, have played together for over 10 years now and have established themselves as a very well respected act on the English traditional music scene. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 12 May The Fureys Legends of Irish music & song The Fureys & Davey Arthur head to Southend. Palace Theatre,
Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 13 May Jeff Beck One of the world’s greatest electric guitarists, Jeff Beck undertakes a long awaited tour of the UK. With support. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 15 May Nigel Kennedy Nigel Kennedy will perform at a very special evening ‘Bach to the Future’ which will take the audience on a mesmerizing journey celebrating his favourite music. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 15 May Gerry Cross The Mersey Join in this musical journey through the life and times of one of our greatest 60s icons – Gerry Marsden. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 17 May Don Williams The Country music legend tours in support of his new album, ‘Reflection’. Support comes from Colin Chisholm. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 17 May D’Ukes Seven-piece ukulele band. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 19 May John Doyle An evening of Irish traditional music. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 20 May Michael Bolton Grammy award-winner Michael Bolton will be coming to Southend as part of a UK tour, performing his greatest hits and songs from the new album ‘Hitsville’. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 21 May Tenor’s Unlimited Join the UK’s original classical-crossover ‘man band’ for an evening of powerful vocals, rich harmony and tender, intimate love songs. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 25 May Country Music Club Featuring Marshall King, Steve Cherelle & Lucy Leigh. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305
ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 31 May Accessorise All Areas The collections of Colchester and Ipswich Museums featured in this exhibition give an insight into the accessories that were used for both fashion and function by men and women to complete their appearance. Holytrees Museum, Colchester, 01206 282940 1 May - 1 June Simon Denny The Personal Effects of Kim Dotcom. firstsite, Colchester, 01206 577067 1 May - 1 June Aleksandra Domanović A new exhibition of recent films by the Berlin-based artist Aleksandra Domanović, exploring the complex ways in which the media and technology have shaped the postwar environment of Domanović’s native country, the former Yugoslavia. firstsite, Colchester, 01206 577067
1 May - 1 June Henri Chopin dans l’Essex The exhibition features works on paper, publications, prints and other ephemera produced during the period that Chopin lived in Essex (1968 to 1985). firstsite, Colchester, 01206 577067 1 - 11 May A Journey Through Painting An exploration of abstraction with beginnings in landscape by Martin Walton. The Gallery, Harlow, 01279 426042 1 May - 19 July Photographers in Southend: 1870 - 1970 Using images taken by professional photographers living within the Borough, this exhibition charts the changing face of Southend over a 100 year period. Central Museum, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 434449 1 - 24 May Pushing Boundaries Exhibition featuring challenging creations, where convention is questioned, colour exploited and the various media used most imaginatively. Aubrey Art Gallery, Great Dunmow, 01371 873133 1 May - 13 July Bernard Cheese - A Quiet Humour A retrospective exhibition of this popular and accessible artist. Fry Art Gallery, Saffron Walden, 01799 513779 10 - 26 May Sprung Locally-based Sculpt Gallery brings you a sculpture exhibition celebrating growth, renewal and fresh spring colours. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford, 0845 2658071
SPECIAL EVENTS 3 - 5 May Essex Craft & Design Show Don’t miss this well established and high quality show, featuring a wide range of exhibiting craft/designer makers and artists; some of them demonstrating during the weekend.This is a perfect opportunity to buy a piece of original art or craft and meet the artist who created the work. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford, 0845 2658071 3 - 5 May May Day Festival Celebrate the arrival of Spring at this grand Victorian day out. Be transported back in time to Audley End’s heyday with the sights, sounds and smells of this golden age. Be you a budding May Queen or handsome young buck, bring your posies and ribbons and try your luck at our Victorian sideshows. Audley End House, Saffron Walden, 0870 3331183 4 - 5 May Jousting with Destrier! Clad in classic 15th century armour and mounted on feisty warhorses, the Knights are ready for the ultimate test – the tournament! All the bustle and excitement of a medieval fair, with Archery, a Jester, Musicians, the Maypole and the Birds of Prey! With craft stalls, a variety of food vendors, Donkey Rides, Face Painting and the Castle Bar, it’s a full day of excitement, involvement and thrilling spectacle! Hedingham Castle, Castle Hedingham, 01787 460261
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H. Lowe & Co. Oliver Wilson Animal feeds (including horse, poultry and pigs) Large range of pet food and accessories Wild bird food Salt ( tablet, granular and block salt) Garden Supplies Solid fuel, logs and kindling wood Charcoal Electrical hardware and much much more including Humbrol paints, Dylon dyes, HG products
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Mill Lane, Clavering CB11 4RL 01799 551213 www.clavering-lakes.co.uk 104|eastlife.co.uk
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Thaxted
THAX TED Explore
Recently named as one of Britain’s most desirable rural areas to live, the colourful town of Thaxted is shining bright for all to see
A
small country town, Thaxted is rich with a history that dates back to before the Domesday Book. With beautiful pastures and stunning architecture, visitors can explore a town that has been a hub for trade and commerce for 1000 years. Once known for manufacturing cutlery, Thaxted saw a decline with the rise of Sheffield as a major industrial centre. Since the early twentieth century, the town has not only moved with the times, but preserved the rich heritage that surrounds it.
Attractions Thaxted Guildhall is one of the town’s longest standing landmarks. With the boom of the cutlery industry in the area, the Guildhall was built around the fifteenth century and was used as a market and meeting place for centuries to come. At the turn of the 18th century, Yardleys Charity restored the guildhall and installed the Thaxted Grammar School, providing free education until 1878. After further restoration, the
Guildhall was contributed to the European Architectural Heritage Year in 1975, representing the civic life of the town. The Thaxted Guildhall is now used to exhibit local artists’ work and to provide a rich lesson of the town’s history. Town Street, Tel: 01371 831281 Overlooking the town is the grand Thaxted Parish Church, completed in 1510. A proud example of English architecture, the church has grown throughout the centuries and leaves many in awe of its beauty. Visitors can take a tour around the grounds, or even attend mass. Places to stay The Farmhouse Inn overlooks the Chelmer Valley, a picturesque part of Essex’s countryside. The Inn also holds a fabulous restaurant and bar. With an extensive menu including fish and vegetarian choices, the Inn focuses on fresh local ingredients. Enjoy a traditional Sunday roast or a pint in its garden. Monk Street, Thaxted, Essex, CM6 2NR Tel: 01371 830864
Whether you fancy a hot lunch, sweet snack or tasty dinner, Parrishes Restaurant and Bar is an all-round establishment. Located in Town Street, the eatery has a traditional look and feel and welcoming atmosphere. 36 Town Street, CM6 2LA. Tel: 01371 830482. The Swan is a traditional coaching inn, the hotel retains many of its original features such as open fires and oak beams, combined with the comfort and convenience of modern living. Guests can enjoy a tasty meal from a choice of menus. Bull Ring, Thaxted, CM6 2PL. Tel: 01371 830321. n
What’s on? Thaxted Music Festival This summer Thaxted will play host to a variety of concerts held every weekend between Friday 20 June and Sunday 13 July. From classic choruses to stringed symphonies residents and visitors can enjoy evenings of sweet summer sounds.
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Meet Charlotte. Meet Charlotte. Meet Charlotte. She wants to be an artist. She wants to be an artist. She wants beherangetartist. We’re going to to help there. We’re going to help her get there.
We’re going to help her get there.
Friends’ School SaffronWalden
“Calm, caring placeFriends’ for individuals who benefit from bespoke push, School SaffronWalden stretch and support” - The Good Schools Guide 2014 “Calm, caring place for individuals who benefit from bespoke push, www.friends.org.uk 017992014 525351 stretch admissions@friends.org.uk and support” - The Good Schools Guide
www.friends.org.uk
admissions@friends.org.uk
Friends’ School SaffronWalden
Walden local back page sept 2013.indd 1
01799 525351
28/02/2014 16:01
local back page sept 2013.indd 1 “Calm, Walden caring place for individuals who benefit from bespoke push,
28/02/2014 16:01
Saffron Walden
Saffron Walden
Explore
A
s Saffron Walden is named one of the best places to live by the 2014 Halifax Rural Areas Quality of Life Survey we take a look at why this historic market town is the best around... A mid-sized market town, in the Uttlesford district of Essex, Saffron Walden retains a rural appearance with many medieval buildings now home to modern day businesses. A thriving market, friendly community and accessible location have all contributed to the recent success of this charming town.
What’s the history? This lovely medieval town sits in the heart of Essex’s rolling countryside, surrounded by a rich history that is still celebrated today. Widely known for the growth of the saffron flower, Saffron Walden produced much of what was needed for medicines, condiments, perfumes and a yellow dye. With the flower’s decline in demand, malt and barley replaced it, bringing with them countless malting and breweries. Trade continued to flourish, eventually shaping the quaint market town seen today.
Attractions Audley End House and Gardens One of the country’s grandest stately homes, Audley End has beautiful views of the countryside. Widely known for its restored parterre and walled Organic Kitchen Garden, the estate is a must for families every season. Children can enjoy the estate themed play area next to the Cart Yard Café, a place for parents to relax. Throughout May and June Audley End will come to life with costumed characters taking it back to its Victorian heyday every weekend. The summer will also bring a host of concerts and a charming collection of classic cars on Father’s Day Off London Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JF Tel: 01799 522842 The Market Place Since 1141, Saffron Walden has been known as a market town. Featuring a variety of vendors, The Market Place is open to the public every Tuesday and Saturday. Visit the Town Centre to purchase local produce and meats, baked goods, fresh flowers, jewellery, clothing, decorative and vintage items, and much more.
What’s on at Audley End t his summer?
Saturday 26 July Paul Weller Paul Weller will be taking to the stage at Audley End to perform songs old and new. Saturday 2 August The Greatest 80s Party Ever Friends and families pack your picnics as this August 80s music icons such as Tony Hadley, Heaven 17 and Katrina (ex Katrina and the Waves) get the party started.
Sunday 3 August Last Night of the Audley End Proms The traditional last night festivities will be led by Laura Wright, Camilla Kerslake, Gardar Thor Cortes and Amy Dickson. The evening will start with a stunning performance by The Grace Spitfire and close with a fantastic firework display. support@ticketscript.co.uk www.audleyendconcerts.com
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Saffron Walden
Places to eat
Places to stay
The Coach & Horses at Newport This traditional British village pub offers a menu of British classics with a twist on continental alternatives and an ever-changing specials. Coach & Horses features a wide array of wines from around the globe, along with a selection of Cask Marque recommended ales. Cambridge Road, Newport, Saffron Walden CB11 3TR Tel: 01799 540292 www.coachandhorsesonline.com
Newdgate House Bed & Breakfast Named for the Western Australian town owners Jacky and John Haigh, who spent three years farming in the 1960s, the Newdgate House is a four silver star award bed and breakfast. Located just outside Saffron Walden in Wimbish, it stands in two acres of beautiful gardens in the Essex countryside. Two rooms available from just £33 per night. Howlett End, Wimbish, Saffron Walden, CB10 2XW Tel: 01799599748
The White Hart This restaurant and bar offers classical English and European flare along with a variety of specials, and the choice of Sunday roast and A la Carte menus for your pleasure. Recently under new ownership, the White Hart has just been renovated with an inviting atmosphere to hold weddings and other events. Open Tuesday through Sunday afternoon. Thaxted Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 2UZ Tel:01799599030 www.thewhitehartwimbish.co.uk
The Cross Keys Hotel This fantastic bar & restaurant also doubles up as a cosy hotel. One of the town’s most recent establishments, The Cross Keys offers six en-suite bedrooms, which have been thoughtfully designed. Each room offers a comfortable and luxurious place to stay with homely mod-cons including flatscreen TV, iPod dock and Wi-Fi. 32 High Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1AX Tel: 01799 522207
New st ore coming t ot own!
Fanny & Frank have been described as Suffolk’s ‘Mini Liberty’ and are now opening a beautiful new boutique store in Saffron Walden. For 10 years the store has provided style conscious people with a sanctuary in which to indulge in their love of beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories. With big brands and designers available such as Vivienne Westwood, Scotch & Soda and Oska to name a few, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Owner Karen Wolff-Evans describes why Saffron Walden was an obvious choice for a new store and what customers can expect
from the designer boutique: “We work hard to find the best brands for our customers. Our designers are not just from the UK but also from all over Europe. We stock names like Vivienne Westwood’s Red label which is fantastic for weddings, the races and big events but have just brought in some gorgeous shirt dresses from an unknown Italian designer called Sara Roka. “I love getting to know my customers and gaining their trust. I never tire of seeing them come into the shop looking for a special outfit and leaving with a huge smile on their face. “We have been searching
for a while for a perfect place to recreate our Fanny & Frank store. It needs lots of space for clothes, a shoe room, special occasion wear, a men’s area, accessories and fragrance. It’s also important to find a great town and be able to stock our main labels. Saffron Walden ticks all the boxes, it’s a lovely place!” The Saffron Walden Fanny & Frank Boutique Store is at the top of Market Hill at 2628 Church Street and opens on Wednesday 16th April. Also at 6-8 Market Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4LU Tel: 01394 38043 www.fannyandfrank.com
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Suffolk THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 3 May Tom This play with live rock and roll music tells the story of the blossoming talent of Tom Jones. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 1 - 3 May The Elephant Man Visual theatre company Gecko collaborate with the acclaimed New Wolsey Young Company to present Bernard Pomerance’s celebrated hit play. New Wolsey Studio Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900
his life. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 8 May Honor Blackman As Herself In conversation with director Richard Digby Day, Honor tells stories of her childhood, of growing up during the Second World War, of her rise to stardom, her leather-clad triumph in television’s The Avengers, and her casting as Pussy Galore. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130
17 May Woman in Mind Illusion and reality collide with hilarious and tragic results in one of Ayckbourn’s finest comedies. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 18 May Cowards in the Wings This entertaining show is a tribute to the lesser known songs of Noel Coward, starring Helen McDermott and Adrian Wright. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505
8 May Robin ince is (In and) Out of his Mind Robin Ince presents another in his line of unhinged stand up comic lectures, looking at the last 100 years of psychiatry, psychology and skewiff brain dabblings. Seagull Theatre, Pakefield, 01502 589726
18 May Carnaby Street - The Musical Concert Featuring an amazing 6-piece band, led by an array of fantastic singers, this astonishing night of sixties classics is not to be missed! Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100
1 - 3 May Jekyll & Hyde A musical thriller based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505
9 - 10 May Cosi Fan Tutte With Mozart’s sublime score this version of Cosi Fan Tutte is sure to an evening of fun, frivolity and heartache! Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505
19 - 20 May Alice An imaginative new adaptation of Alice in Wonderland set during the First World War, featuring innovative puppetry and live music. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505
2 May Body & Soulmates and Buss Pass to Peterborough The New Eye Theatre Company presents the premiere of two one act plays, both written and directed by John Gleeson. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130
9 - 10 May Blackadder Goes Forth The Seagull Rep present a recreation of the first three episodes of the classic BBC comedy series, live on stage. Seagull Theatre, Pakefield, 01502 589726
20 May Annie Amateur production. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200
1 - 3 May Blood Brothers Written by Willy Russell, a captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100
2 May La Bohème Opera and Ballet International presentsone of the most romantic operas ever written. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 2 May A Suffolk Show Featuring The Broadside Boys and Stephen Bayfield. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 3 May Aida The grandest of all Ellen Kent’s operas returns to the UK with a stunning, traditional brand new production. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 4 May Call Mr Robeson - A Life, with Songs Tayo Aluko revives one of the 20th Century’s most impressive but overlooked figures in this compelling tour-de-force performance. Seagull Theatre, Pakefield, 01502 589726
9 - 11 May The Gondoliers Opera della Luna premieres Gilbert & Sullivan’s comic opera. New Wolsey Studio Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 9 May Snooker Legends Steve Davis will be playing Jimmy ‘Whirlwind’ White at the return of the Snooker Legends Tour. John Virgo will again be on hand to provide expert analysis and generally keep the crowds entertained. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100 13 - 17 May She Stoops to Conquer This classic comedy by Oliver Goldsmith revels in the mistakes & misunderstandings that come together to create a heart-warming, evening. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505
5 - 7 May 1001 Nights 1001 Nights collects together some of the greatest folk tales ever told. New Wolsey Studio Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900
13 - 17 May Monstrous Regiment Sudbury Dramatic Society presents Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novel adapted for the stage by Stephen Briggs. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745
6 May Ballet Central 2014 Ballet Central perform at Bury St Edmunds with an exciting programme. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505
14 May Suggs In Suggs: My Life Story the Madness frontman takes to the stage in a hilarious, yet moving, one man show. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200
6 May Psychic Sally: On the Road Psychic Sally Morgan returns with her interactive stage show. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100
15 - 17 May The Ghost Train The Quaysiders return to The Seagull with Arnold Ridley’s classic drama. Seagull Theatre, Pakefield, 01502 589726
6 May Palm Wine & Stout Eastern Angles Theatre Company present this funny and poignant new play that fizzes with cultural tension and bursts with real-life family drama. Seagull Theatre, Pakefield, 01502 589726
15 May Morecambe This Olivier Award winning play stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200
7 - 8 May Formby In a unique one-man performance Ewan Wardrop plays the role of Formby, as well as all the key characters involved in this fascinating slice of
16 - 17 May Rime A new circus show devised and collectively made by Square Peg based on Coleridge’s epic poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. New Wolsey Studio Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900
21 May Bitch Boxer Snuff Box Theatre presents this modern, award-winning play by Charlotte Josephine about a woman in a man’s world. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 22 May Paul Hollywood Paul Hollywood Live - Get Your Bake On! sees Paul take to the stage for an evening of baking, comedy and fun. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 22 May The Laughter Show With Jimmy Cricket and Richard Whymark. Regal Theatre, Stowmarket, 01449 612825 24 - 25 May Slightly Fat Features in Varietyville The smash hit variety troupe Slightly Fat Features, return to Bury St Edmunds with more astonishing physical skills and orchestrated mayhem. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 24 - 25 May Science Museum Live Science Museum Live presents The Energy Show: explosive family theatre for curious minds. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 26 May The Shakespeare Delusion A comic tale written and performed by Robert Crighton. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 27 - 31 May Rising Damp ITV’s top comedy of all time comes to the stage in a brand-new production from the Comedy Theatre Company. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 27 May Noah: A Musical Adventure Saltmine Theatre Company presents Noah, a Musical Adventure with Doug Horley playing the title role. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 30 May Death and the Maiden A psychological thriller set against a political backdrop. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130
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Suffolk MUSIC 1 May Boo Hewerdine Boo tours in support of his current album, ‘My Name in the Brackets’. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 2 May The Searchers Featuring all their classic. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 7 May Daniel O’Donnell Daniel O’Donnell tours with his current album, ‘Songs From The Movie and More’. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 9 May The FB Pocket Orchestra Be transported back to the days of hot jazz blues, ragtime and popular dances of the 1920s, 1930s and beyond. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 9 May Northern Area Gala Concert Suffolk County Music Service extracurricular ensembles, join together to present an evening of string, brass and wind band music. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 10 May Ian Anderson The Prog Rock icon embarks on a tour, following the release of his new album ‘Homo Erraticus’. Regent Theatre, pswich, 01473 433100 10 May Wolseley Orchestra Coates The Dambusters March, Arnold - Little Suite No.2, Bliss Suite - Things To Come and Walton Symphony No.1 in Bb. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100 13 May Fairport Convention Fairport Convention remains one of the most entertaining bands on the live music scene. Ipswich Cameo Hotel, 01473 433100 13 May The Ben Waters Band The boogie woogie pianist comes to Ipswich with his excellent band. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 14 May The Ultimate Louis Armstrong Show A spectacular journey through the great man’s wonderful music, featuring the award winning Bateman Brothers Jazz Band. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 16 May Barry Manilow The pop icon brings all of his hits to Portman Road. Ipswich Town Football Club, Ipswich, 01473 433100 16 May The Fureys & Davey Arthur Legends of Irish music and song. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 16 May Showaddywaddy in Concert Featuring all of their hits and many, many more. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 16 May Orkestra del Sol Ska, porro, Balkan brass, klezmer and funk combine to create a honkstep for the 21st century. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 19 May John McNicholl The Irish country singer will be supported by Sandy
Kelly. Regal Theatre, Stowmarket, 01449 612825 20 May Endellion Quartet & Wendy Cope Josef Haydn Quartet in B flat, Op. 55, No. 3, Roxanna Panufnik The Audience and Franz Schubert Quartet No.14 in D minor, “Death and the Maiden”. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 23 May Paloma Faith Paloma is touring in support of her new album, ‘A Perfect Contradiction’. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 23 May Dave Thomas Blues Band Blues musician. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 23 May Dixie Strollers Dixie/New Orleans seven-piece jazz band. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 25 May All Classical Music Explained Rainer Hersch’s witty romp through the world of classical music. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000
ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 4 May Once Upon A Time This exhibition celebrates children’s book illustrators of East Anglia. Ipswich Art School, Ipswich, 01473 433681 1 - 31 May Brewer’s Map of Sudbury Sudbury is wonderfully brought to life in an extraordinary contemporary picture of the town: Brewer’s Map of Sudbury as it appeared in 1714. The map was probably made by Cornelius Brewer of Borley. It is hand drawn on vellum using iron gall ink and various shades of watercolour. To celebrate the tercentenary of its creation, Brewer’s Map will be exhibited at Gainsborough’s House. Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, 01787 372958 1 - 31 May Grand Collection: Richard Wilson and Masterworks from The Ford Collection This exhibition is a treat for all those interested in English landscape painting, great collecting, drawing and the Grand Tour. It showcases paintings and drawings from the Ford family collection, most notably works acquired by Benjamin Booth, his grandson Richard Ford and the renowned art historian and collector Sir Brinsley Ford. Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, 01787 372958 1 May - 27 July Escape to the Country This new exhibition follows the people who left the city rat race to start new lives in rural East Anglia in the 1970s. Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket, 01449 612229 1 May - 9 June Printworks IV A comprehensive exhibition on the art of printmaking. Sea Pictures Gallery, Clare, 01787 279024 1 - 24 May Sound Matters - Exploring sound through forms Sound Matters, considers the connections between craft practice and sound art through seven contemporary works which have been select-
ed and commissioned to illustrate ways in which these two distinct practices can collide. Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 762081 2 - 8 May Christine Lester Recent paintings of the waterside in various media, by Christine, a Suffolk artist and tutor. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303 6 - 31 May Liz Waugh McManus Liz’s work synthesizes traditional sculptural and contemporary animation and film-making practices resulting in an unusual combination of glass sculpture and video projection, including interactive ones. The Cut Gallery, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 16 May - 8 June Retro Icons This exhibition of rare and historical iconic photographic images spans thirty years from around 1961. Peter Akehurst and Tim Motion have been documenting their different worlds with stylish and captivating imagery since the “Swinging sixties”. The Apex Gallery, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 16 - 22 May Monika Cilimi Exhibition showcasing Monika’s fascinating Zen brushwork. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303 20 May - 15 June Moment in Time Exhibition of works by Malcolm and Lorry Cudmore. Fisher Theatre Gallery, Bungay, 01986 897130 23 - 29 May Tim Hall New watercolour and oil originals from Tim’s travels around Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, places which continue to inspire him. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303
SPECIAL EVENTS 5 May May Day Celebrations The Museum of East Anglian Life is celebrating May Day in 70s style, with a day packed full of family fun and activities. The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket, 01449 612229 16 - 25 May Bury St Edmunds Festival Ten days of great music, theatre, film and exhibitions. Venues throughout Bury St Edmunds, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 18 May Street Entertainment A day of street entertainment kicks off on Charter Square with Onyx Brass as they kick off a leg of their “Tour de Brass”. This will be followed by a host of street theatre performers on both Charter Square and Market Square who will delight you, amaze you and put a smile on your face. Charter Square and Market Square, Bury St Edmunds 28 - 29 May The Suffolk Show The Suffolk Show is the county’s biggest two day pop-up event. Bring your family to discover, explore, taste and enjoy hours of stimulation, fun and entertainment in a real hands-on day. Trinity Park, Ipswich, 01473 726847
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Bury St Edmunds
Bury St Edmunds
Discover the beauty & heritage
B
ury St Edmunds in Suffolk is a historic gem. It is an important market town with a richly fascinating heritage, encompassing a striking combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and an absolutely glorious Cathedral - a must visit!
What’s the history? The town, originally called Beodericsworth, is known for brewing and malting and for a British sugar processing factory. Many businesses are located in Bury, which traditionally has given it an affluent economy with low unemployment. The town houses the main cultural and retail centre for West Suffolk, making tourism a major part of the economy. Shopping Bury St Edmunds is a haven for shopoholics. Visit the Arc, the strikingly modern shopping centre with over 30 well-known retail shops both large and small. From high street heroes such as Topshop, Accesorize and Phase Eight to Auntie Pam’s sweet shop and Hughes Electrical, it has something for everyone. It’s also home to Bury St Edmunds’ newest venue, the Apex, which hosts fashion events, comedy shows and more. The award-winning market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, showcases a wide range of fresh local produce,
including meat, fish, cheese, vegetables, fruits and flower shops. Parkway, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3BA.
Places to eat The One Bull Public House places emphasis on good quality, seasonal produce and, wherever possible, sources local ingredients. Try a great Sunday roast or stop by for a homemade toasted Suffolk pork and apple-sauce sandwich. A great place to bring the family or meet up with friends and catch up. Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1UZ, Tel: 01284 848220. Places to stay Set within 1,800 acres of beautiful parkland The Ickworth Hotel ensures guests have the most fun possible with tree climbing, croquet on the lawn, junior cookery and gardening on offer. A fabulous luxury family hotel, this is the perfect holiday retreat to indulge in fresh air in abundance. Ickworth Hotel offers a successful blend of contemporary style with the traditions of a great country house. The hotel offers fantastic accommodation, decorated in the traditional style you might expect, but is also modern and chic. The Ickworth Hotel, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5QE Tel: 01284 735350 n
Bury St Edmunds Festival The Bury St Edmunds Festival is one of East Anglia’s premier arts events, attracting thousands of people to the historic market town at the heart of Heritage Suffolk. This year’s festival will run from 16 to 25 May 2014. The festival’s packed programme includes performances from 4 Girls 4 Harps, Supersize Polyphony 2, Dixie Strollers and the return of Mbawula as well as film screenings, comedy and street entertainment. A great day out for all the family, pack a picnic and take a trip to this fun and creative festival. www.buryfestival.co.uk
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SK clinic + spa
“Sole Therapy” TREAT YOUR FEET WITH A LUXURIOUS SPA PEDICURE
SPECIAL OFFER ONLY £30 - 1 HOUR AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT MAY AT SK
A truly luxurious experience for the sole. This Prescriptive Pedicure buffs and shapes the nails, cuticles and rough skin areas, feet will be cleansed and renewed with a brightening exfoliation and nourished with a vitamin-enriched mask and an indulgent massage. Finish with the latest OPI nail lacquer.
PARADISE FOR THE SOLE! Simply contact SK for further details. Open 7 days a week. SK Clinic + Spa, Victory Chapel, 4 Northgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1HG
01284 748470 q info@skclinic.co.uk
www.skclinic.co.uk
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50% UP TO
OFF
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TROWMANS
RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES
FOR ALL YOUR HOME COOKING, HEATING AND HOT WATER NEEDS We are members of the stove industries body called HETAS, which enables us to fully install to building regulation requirements and certificate the installation so the customer does not need to get building approval. Our main business is the supply and installation of wood or multi-fuel stove supplies and the installation of cookers (cooking only) supplies and cookers with full central heating, service and repairs to wood burners, chimney sweeping, building work, reopening up of fireplaces and fire surrounds – to name a few! We have fully equipped showroom with over 40 stoves on display along with full range of
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Rayburn cookers, stoves and cooker accessories and we carry out site surveys free of charge with written quotations. Our products include Aga Rayburn cookers and stoves along with a full variety of all the leading stove manufacturers stoves on display which include Aga, Stovax, Dimplex, Woodwarm, Yeoman, Hunter, Cleanburn, Heta, Jetmaster, Termatech, Burly, Morso, Mendip, Westfire, Dovre, plus many more. We supply and install granite hearths and fire surrounds, electric stoves and fires including opti-myst fires, naked flame, ethanol fires, log baskets, fire sets and accessories.
Long Melford
Long Melford
W
poor women. People are thought to have been living in the area of the village as far back as 8,300BC.
performances from local bands and choirs. The fair is expected to attract between 8 to 10,000 visitors. www.longmelfordstreetfair.co.uk
What’s the history? Long Melford has been a settled village for many centuries. Perhaps one of its most busiest times until present was during the Tudor times. One of Suffolk’s most attractive villages, it has a particularly apt name. ‘Melford’ is derived from ‘mill’ and ‘ford’, but it is the ‘Long’ which is most fitting, ask anyone who has attempted to walk the two and a half miles of the main street; the longest in the country. An ideal place to begin a stroll through the village is at the Holy Trinity Church, which like many in the area is a wool church from the 15th century, a product of prosperity among local cloth merchants of the time. Containing several noteworthy memorials and brasses, also outside is the brick hospital, founded in 1573 as an almhouse for twelve poor men and two
Attractions Ran by the National Trust, Melford Hall is one of two Tudor mansions in close proximity. A large Elizabethan house, it is built of red brick around a quadrangle and ornamented with mitre-topped turrets. Then there is Kentwell Hall a romantic, completely moated, redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. There are lots of events at the Hall, visitors can take a guided tour of the house and explore the gardens and farm. Those more captivated by the recent past might be interested to know that the Bull Inn on Hall Street played host to John Lennon in the 1960s for a time, one of the more recent events in its fascinating history. Making the most of the village’s length is the Long Melford Street Fair, taking place 13 July 2014, 3pm to 8pm. Now in its 14th year, it retains the tradition of street fairs of yore while putting on plenty of entertainment and fun activities including Punch & Judy for the kids and live
Shopping Primarily known as an antiques centre, Long Melford has also become a thriving and growing hub of art galleries, so much so it is recognised as one of Suffolk’s best areas for art. These include the Imagine Gallery, The Jessica Muir Gallery, The Lime Tree Gallery and The Hunter Gallery — all offering a wide variety of pieces. Woolpatch Gallery is the place for knitting, patchwork and quilting and offers a wide variety of wools, mixed yarns and a large assortment of materials for patchwork and haberdashery. For creative sorts half-day courses on knitting, patchwork, creative machine embroidery and crochet are available. Aerial House, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9JR. Tel: 01787 313452 Besides these, there are many more charming restaurants and typical Suffolk inns to be found, while an indoor farmers’ market is held at the Village Memorial Hall on the third Saturday of every month.
ith fans including John Lennon, Long Melford truly is a Suffolk gem and well worth a day’s visit or overnight stay. There are several fine hotels, a number of excellent restaurants and a collection of shops that are the envy of East Anglia.
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PCS Velvet full page advert_Layout 1 02/04/2014 15:22 Page 1
THE
PERSIAN CARPET STUDIO
The
BIG Spring Clean
Up to half price reductions on all stock Friday 2 until Saturday 17 May 2014 (including Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May)
To make room for our exciting Summer collections we are offering up to 50% off rugs, runners and large carpets in traditional and contemporary designs, kelims, cushions, stools, lamps, pottery and much more. Our products are beautiful, unique and handmade. Bring your rugs in for a spring clean and receive a 10% CLEANING DISCOUNT and a free assessment for cleaning, moth check and repairs. Offer valid until 31 May 2014.
OPENING TIMES Monday – Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm. Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May –10am until 4pm. Closed Sunday 11 May The Persian Carpet Studio, The Old White Hart, Long Melford, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 9HX 01787 882214 | www.persiancarpetstudio.co.uk | Car Park
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Explore historic Cambridge by bus Departures throughout the year Why not make the most of your visit to Cambridge by booking a City Sightseeing tour on our open-top buses. Tickets are available online, or buy your ticket on the bus.Tours include a free map, and pre-recorded audio is available in multiple languages.
Stops include: n n n
For more information
Cambridge University Botanic Garden 01223 433250 American Military Cemetery Silver Street - The Backs (inc King’s College)
www.citysightseeing-cambridge.com CSS_April 2014 - 168x240.indd 1
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Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 3 May Spring Awakening Brought bang up to date by young playwright Anya Reiss and director Ben Kidd, this new version examines the exuberance, intensity and confusion of teenage life today. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 1 - 3 May Tory Boyz A sharp and witty comedy of private party politics, careerism versus idealism and the processes of change and acceptance. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 2 May The Little Mermaid Join Ballet Theatre UK on this dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s all-time favourite story of The Little Mermaid. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 2 May Psychic Sally on the Road Medium/Psychic show. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 5 - 10 May Things We Do For Love Natalie Imbruglia stars in one of the greatest plays of the nineties, written by Alan Ayckbourn. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 6 - 10 May Trojan Women Play by Euripides. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 9 May Roy Chubby Brown 2014 Who Ate All the Pies’. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 12 - 13 May Morecambe This Olivier Award winning play stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 12 May Paul Hollywood Live - Get Your Bake On! TV’s baking star Paul Hollywood brings his first ever live show to the UK in 2014. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 13 - 17 May Tis Pity She’s A Whore This vivid and violent Jacobean tragedy shows a brother and sister’s passionate descent into hell. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 13 - 17 May Bad Advice A fresh outlook on the dating game. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 13 - 14 May Sarah Millican Join Sarah for some hilarious domestic bliss in her brand new show, ‘Home Bird’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 16 May Kidnapped Sell a Door Theatre Company present this highly imaginative re-telling of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story perfect for young and old audiences alike. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 18 May Noah: A Musical Adventure A fun-filled family musical based on the story of Noah and the Ark. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239
19 - 24 May The Play That Goes Wrong Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off in this new hit comedy direct from the West End. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 20 - 24 May Whatever Happened to the Lead? This hilarious satire of Hollywood’s golden age will have you in stitches from start to finish. Corpus Playroom, Cambridge, 01223 300085 23 - 24 May The Time Machine Nunkie brings H G Wells’s science fiction classic to life in another thrilling one-man show. Mumford Theatre, Cambridge, 0845 1962320 27 - 31 May English Touring Opera Present ‘King Priam’ (27 May), ‘Paul Bunyan’ (28 May) and ‘The Magic Flute’ (29 - 31 May). Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 27 May Jimmy Carr ‘Funny Business’ is Jimmy’s brand new stand up show. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 27 May Matt Richardson Hometown Hero’ is Matt’s highly anticipated debut show. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 30 May Blofeld and Baxter Henry Blofeld and Peter Baxter cordially invite you to join them on a trip down memory lane to discover fascinating untold stories from the Test Match Special commentary box and beyond. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 31 May Inspector Norse A self-assembly Swedish crime thriller from award-winning comedy duo LipService. Mumford Theatre, Cambridge, 0845 1962320
MUSIC 1 May Nick Van Bloss J S Bach: Goldberg Variations. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 2 May Kraftwerk Uncovered - Future Past Icebreaker performs a reworking of Kraftwerk’s music by J Peter Schwalm, with film by Sophie Clements and Toby Cornish. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 2 May Shaun Loughrey An evening of Country and Irish music. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 2 May Mentés Másként Trio Hungarian folk trio. Cambridge Folk Club at The Golden Hind, Cambridge, 01638 603986 2 May Cambridge University Chamber Choir Echoes of Venice. St John’s College Chapel, Cambridge, 01223 300085 2 May Nah Sind Wir, Herr The five-part ensemble amarcord present a programme of music from the libraries of St. Thomas and amarcord. Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge, 01223 847330 3 May Cambridge Philharmonic Haydn:
Die Schöpfung (The Creation)(sung in German). West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 4 May Neil Finn The former frontman of Crowded House heads hits the road with a solo tour. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 6 May Urban Folk Quartet Joe Broughton, Paloma Trigás, Tom Chapman and Dan Walsh play globally–influenced, electrifying acoustic music. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 8 May Bartosz Woroch (violin) & Robert Thompson (piano) Programme includes works by Bach, Strauss and Beethoven. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 9 May Ian Anderson Legendary Prog Rock icon Ian Anderson embarks on a 22 date UK tour for 2014. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 9 May RAF Central Band in Concert A Tribute to the Great War. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01353 660349 9 May The Rifles The Rifles tour with their new album. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 9 May John McNichol Irish country music. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 10 May Cambridge University Chamber Orchestra Haydn - Symphony No. 88, Martinů - Oboe Concerto, Bartok - Romanian Folk Dances and Beethoven Symphony No.8. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 10 May A Night of Congolese Rhythm Featuring the band Zong Zing - a Congolese phrase for All Stars. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 10 May Robert Cray Band Robert Cray Band returns to the UK, to celebrate their 40th Anniversary! Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 10 May Harpeth Rising and Michael Berk Acoustic Roots at CB2 Basement, Cambridge, 01223 366866 11 May Spiers & Boden Traditional folk music duo. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 15 May Motor City Memories An evening full of Motown tunes. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 17 May Music and Dance of Java This concert will feature a fascinating mix of traditional Javanese dance and live instrumental music from Central Java. Members of the Cambridge Gamelan Group will be joined by renowned Indonesian dancer, Ni Madé Pujawati. Stapleford Granary, Cambridge, 01223 845599 18 May Sinfonia of Cambridge Programme includes pieces by Strauss, Pärt and Sibelius. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184
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Cambridgeshire 18 May Johnny Marks An evening of Country music. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 20 May Belinda Carlisle Lead singer of the Go-Gos and solo pop icon Belinda Carlisle visits Cambridge following the release of her new single ‘Sun’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 22 May Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Britten: Four Sea Interludes, Elgar: Cello Concerto and Vaughn Williams: Symphony No.3. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 22 May Mark Grist: Rogue Teacher The former school teacher and poet laureate of Peterborough hits the road with a unique blend of poetry and hip-hop. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 22 May Heath String Quartet Programme includes works by Beethoven, Tippett and Schubert. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 23 May Britten Sinfonia A fascinating programme of music which traces three major English composers responses to landscape and national identity. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 24 May The Pasadena Roof Orchestra A fun-packed show featuring timeless classics from the great American song book. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 24 May Paloma Faith Paloma tours in support of her new album, ‘A Perfect Contradiction’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 24 May Cambridge Voices Handel’s ‘Messiah’. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01353 660349 24 May Alexander the Great: a Folk Operetta An audio-visual odyssey with live music by Huck & The Xander Band. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 24 May Academy of Ancient Music This programme showcases four of Bach’s most joyful works. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 31 May Boo Hewerdine The frontman of ‘80s pop band The Bible brings his solo show to Cambridge. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511
ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 11 May From root to tip: Botanical art in Britain This exhibition brings together a selection of watercolours from the Fitzwilliam’s outstanding collection of botanical art. It draws on over 300 years of work by both professional and amateur artists, tracing a history of flower drawing in Britain. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900
1 - 11 May Art & Life: 1920-1931 - Ben Nicholson, Winifred Nicholson, Christopher Wood, Alfred Wallis & William Staite Murray This major exhibition brings together the work of painters Ben and Winifred Nicholson alongside that of their friends and fellow artists Christopher Wood, Alfred Wallis, and the potter William Staite Murray. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 1 - 18 May The Rampant Lions Press: A Letterpress Odyssey Inspired by the venerable tradition of private presses in England, the Rampant Lions Press was a small publisher of fine editions and a designer-printer for other publishers. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900 1 May - 31 Aug Vicken Parsons Vicken Parsons displays a number of her paintings and sculptures among the permanent collection in the house. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 1 - 6 May Great War Between the Lines A series of exhibitions covering music, family, British troops in France, the total war, hidden stories and military logistics. Wisbech & Fenland Museum, Wisbech, 01945 583817 1 - 26 May Still Life Paintings exhibition. Cambridge Contemporary Art, Cambridge, 01223 324222 1 - 26 May Stich Links Continuum will be the third exhibition of contemporary textile art organised by Stitch Links at the Babylon Gallery. Babylon Gallery, Ely, 01353 669022 1 - 31 May Sea Monsters to Sonar: Charting the Polar Oceans This exhibition traces the development and use of maps of the Polar oceans and coastlines. Objects of significant interest on display include replica Greenlandic driftwood maps, a life-size submarine control room, hand drawn charts produced at the cost of many lives, electronic charts in the modern era and an original 16th century atlas depicting fictional Arctic islands. Scott Polar Research Institute, Cambridge, 01223 336540 10 May - 22 June A Poetic Journey - The Life & Writings of John Clare Commemorate the 150th anniversary of the death of the poet John Clare, with this unique and extraordinary exhibition. Offering a chance to see incredibly rare, fragile and beautiful manuscripts written by John Clare. Peterborough Museum, Peterborough, 01733 864663 20 May - 28 Sept La Grande Guerre: French prints of the First World War The first seven months of World War I are dramatically illustrated in the colour lithographs and woodcuts of the series La Grande Guerre. The prints will be shown in chronological order, so that visitors to
the gallery can experience a retelling of events from the perspective of France. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900 24 May - 14 June Under the Horizon Exhibition of works by Peter Joyce, all of his paintings have their origins in the Marais Breton Vendéen, in western France. Lynne Strover Gallery, Fen Ditton, 01223 295264 30 May - 22 June Anita Klein & Helen Martino Cambridge Contemporary Art, Cambridge, 01223 324222
SPECIAL EVENTS 1 - 3 May The 46th Cambridge Drama Festival Tragedy, fantasy, history, drama, comedy, social commentary and maybe even Shakespeare brought to you by adult and junior groups from in and around the region. At least two one-act plays each evening plus intriguing theatrical quizzes for the audience and interesting professional critiques of each play by Marie O’ Sullivan from the Guild of Drama Adjudicators. The Festival ends with the presentation of awards to groups and individuals whose work has been outstanding. Mumford Theatre, Cambridge, 0845 1962320 2 - 5 May Ely’s Eel Festival 2014 The weekend’s attractions include: Ely Food Festival, Eel throwing competition, Ely Street Musicians Muster, Eel Day Parade and Ely’s Food Festival. Various locations throughout Ely, Ely, 01353 662062 10 - 24 May Eat Cambridge The city will be buzzing with foodies this May for the second Eat Cambridge festival, a unique two-week celebration of local food and drink. The Main Event, a food and drink fair in The Cambridge Corn Exchange will take place on the Saturday, featuring over 50 local producers, talks from local experts and a top-secret pop-up fine dining experience. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 24 - 25 May The D-Day Anniversary Show The D-Day Anniversary Air Show commemorates the 70th anniversary of this decisive military campaign, demonstrating the vital role that aerial warfare played in the invasion of Normandy. The air show will feature fighter, bomber and transport aircraft types that would have been seen over the beaches of France, together with thrilling ground content, including a march past by Normandy veterans and serving personnel from the Parachute Regiment. IWM Duxford, Cambridge, 01223 835000 31 May Etheldreda Craft & Food Fair The Etheldreda Craft & Food Fair returns to Palace Green. A handpicked selection of over 40 stalls including crafts, plants, gift and charity stalls will be tempting buyers. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01353 660349
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• CYCLES • TOYS • MODELS • DIY • CRAFT
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01353 663131 www.citycyclecentre.com eastlife.co.uk|129 City Cycles.indd 1
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Peterborough
Peterborough
Pretty
P
eterborough is the city at the heart of rural East England, bridging the Cambridgeshire, Rutland, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire borders. Peterborough and its region have an important place in the history of Britain and the modern city is thriving. You will find a heritage city, an environment city, an event city and a modern exciting cosmopolitan place. What’s the history? Peterborough began as a Saxon settlement. The Saxons built a village on the site of Peterborough called Medehamstede (meadow homestead) as it was originally known. Railway lines began operating locally during the 1840s, but it was the 1850 opening of the Great Northern Railway’s main line from London to York that transformed Peterborough from a market town to an industrial centre. The modern-day city of Peterborough in Cambridgeshire, hides a wealth of history just waiting to be uncovered. Attractions Relax in Cathedral Square, the cosmopolitan heartbeat of the city. Sit outside at the many cafes and restaurants, shop, watch events and listen to music. The Heritage Trail links one of the finest Norman Cathedrals in Europe with the beautifully restored Museum, the Guildhall, St Johns, Town Hall , the new Coats of Arms Gallery and St Peter’s Arcade by the Visitor Information Centre. The 23 acres Cathedral site is an oasis in the middle of a vibrant city. The Museum has 200,000 items and the 160 million year old Jurassic marine reptile fossil collection, Squires Coffee Shop and City Gallery.
The rural city has a taste of Bronze age life at the at Flag Fen Archaeology Park with its 3,500 years old wooden causeway held by world experts in the same esteem as Stonehenge. Other heritage highlights of the rural city are John Clare Cottage, Helpston and Burghley House, England’s finest Elizabethan house. There are the ever-changing exhibitions at the numerous art galleries and city museums the place has to offer. When the daylight fades experience Peterborough’s nightlife. It has two theatres offering drama, ballet and concerts and selection of restaurants serving cuisine for every palate, cocktail bars and nightclubs open until the early hours. Shopping & culture Shopping in Peterborough is quite a pastime, in fact, you are spoilt for choice - three shopping centres, the City Market, independent stores, regular farmers markets and craft fairs. During the warmer months, dining can become an outside experience so that you can soak up the atmosphere of the city, while relaxing with a drink and a bite to eat. Peterborough Garden Park was created to meet the needs of a growing number of people interested in gardening and outdoor activities. This innovative retail and leisure destination combines the attributes of a traditional garden centre and an accessible retail scheme, with a mix of lifestyle retailers. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 4YZ. Tel: 01733 222204.
A date for t he diary Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival The hugely popular Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival will take place at Peterborough Rowing Club, Thorpe Meadows on Saturday 14 June. The festival promises a fantastic day for competitors and spectators alike with funfair activities, inflatables and plenty of food and drink for the whole family. The festival will help raise money for East Anglia’s Children Hospices. www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/peterborough
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HUB THE HUB HOTEL THE
PETERBOROUGH
The Hub is a newly refurbished hotel located less than 2 miles from the city centre and Peterborough train station. We are ideally located for both leisure and corporate guests. Our room prices are he most competetive in the City, with rates starting from ÂŁ24.95 per night. The whole hotel was fully refurbished in October 2013 to a very high standard including all rooms and public areas. All our 71 rooms come equipped with 22 inch flat screen television with access to the full range of satellite & cable channels providing over 100 channels, access to high-speed internet, complementary parking, continental breakfast and discounts on wine bar for in-house guests. The Hub Peterborough, Newton Way, The Boongate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 5QT
Phone: 01733 894400 www.thehub-hotels.com Email: info@thehub-hotels.com
Peterborough
Places to Eat Whether you prefer fine restaurants or pub food, Peterborough has a great selection of places to eat and drink. Winner of Gordon Ramsey’s The F Word ‘Best British Restaurant’, The Pheasant is a thatched English inn set in a sleepy farming village. The large bar is a traditional and unspoilt mixture of oak beams, large open fires and simple wooden furniture. Loop Road, Keyston, Huntingdon, PE28 0RE. Tel: 01832 710241 Halo is a bar, restaurant and club hybrid in the centre of Peterborough. Located in the old ‘The Bar’ site on Northminster, it is a prime location in the daytime and evening to enjoy good food and quality drinks in plush
Environmental city Peterborough has the 21st Century vision to be “the UK’s Environment Capital,” and has the most green space of any UK city with over 20 Nature Reserves & Country Parks that offer experiences throughout the year. For relaxation or active leisure Ferry Meadows at the heart of the Nene Valley Park is a perfect part of your experience of 500 acres of lakes, woodland and meadows. Take a walk and a boat trip or bird watch, cycle, sail, canoe, golf, fish or horse ride throughout the year. You can hire cycles to ride the Green Wheel network around the city. Ride the Nene Valley Railway for a fantastic experience of steam railway through beautiful countryside between Wansford and the city centre. The north of the city, John Clare Country, has the beautiful stone villages of the traditional Soke of Peterborough across the Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Rutland borders. Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre near
surroundings. The menu offers a blend of Sushi and noodles. During the evening, live DJs play every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 9 p.m. Earlham House, Northminster, Peterborough, PE1 1FJ. Tel: 01733 343035 Places to Stay Set in a 17th century manor house, the Best Western Plus Orton Hall Hotel and Spa is nestled in 20 acres of mature parkland in the conservation village of Orton Longueville. Both Peterborough and the A1 are two and half miles from the property. Once home of the Marquesses of Huntly, the award-winning Orton Hall Hotel boasts 70 elegant rooms,
some with romantic four-poster beds. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, a flatscreen TV with satellite channels, and tea/coffee making facilities. The Village, Orton Longueville, Peterborough, PE2 7DN. Tel: 0845 373 0808. The Hub is a newly refurbished hotel located less than two miles from the city centre and train station. Perfect for both leisure and corporate, guests the hotel offers 71 comfortable and contemporary styled rooms. The hotel’s location is ideal for those looking for a base to explore Peterborough’s many attractions. Newton Way, The Boongate, Peterborough, PE1 5QT. Tel: 01733 894400
Thornhaugh is a fantastic environment and heritage day out. Events Peterborough has a year round vibrant events programme to experience across the city centre and its region from speciality markets to the Heritage Festival, Arts Festival, Music Festivals, Italian Festival, Beer Festival to the Great Eastern Run. Concerts and events are always on at the Embankment and Peterborough Arena and the Museum runs a series of regular Heritage City tours. The four “Sports City” arena are Peterborough United, Peterborough Panthers (Speedway), Peterborough Phantoms (Ice Hockey) or eat out and experience the Peterborough Greyhounds. Enjoy the city! Take a look at the Regional Events Calendar for your visit at visitpeterborough.com with the online handbook to all experiences of the city.
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Beds, Herts & Bucks THEATRE & SHOWS
8717607
Theatre, Watford, 01923 225671
1 - 3 May An Intervention A touching, funny play about what happens when you hate your best friend. Watford Palace Theatre, Watford, 01923 225671
8 May Entertaining Mr Sloane London Classic Theatre presents the 50th anniversary production of Joe Orton’s play. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333
1 - 3 May Black Coffee In the first play ever written by Agatha Christie, we are introduced to Hercule Poirot. Starring Robert Powell as the famous detective. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 8717652
8 - 13 May Jon Richardson Nidiot. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488
22 May Paul Chowdhry The comedian tackles everything borderline within the human psyche in his new show, ‘PC’s World’. The Court Theatre @ Pendley Tring, 07543 560478
1 May Return of the Grumpy Old Women: Fifty Shades of Beige Jenny Eclair will be joined by fellow recruits Susie Blake and Kate Robbins in this brand spanking new show. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800
10 May Omid Djalili Omid is back on tour with a splash, following a sell-out four week West-End residency and a sold-out season at the Edinburgh Festival. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200
1 - 3 May Buddy A cast of actors and musicians tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his meteoric rise to fame, to his final legendary performance at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, 0844 8717607 1 - 3 May Annie An amateur production. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 1 - 3 May Illyria High A Big Spirit Youth Theatre prodution based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 1 May Morecambe This Olivier Award winning play stars Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 1 May Hal Cruttenden Footballers, Facebook and food are just three of the topics Hal devours with his unique mix of camp and straight, warm and catty humour. Rhodes Theatre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 4 May Hot Flush! Starring Lesley Joseph. Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 4 May La Bohème Chisinau National Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra present one of the most romantic operas ever written. Watford Colosseum, Watford, 0845 0753993 5 - 10 May Dance ‘Til Dawn A 1940s dance extrvaganza, starring Strictly’s Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 8717652 6 May An Evening with Pasha and Katya The Stars of Strictly bring their stunning dancers to Stevenage in this spectacular brand new Ballroom and Latin show. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 7 May Ruby Wax The much loved US born comedian, actor and writer, is coming to Watford Colosseum with her brand-new show, Sane New World. Watford Colosseum, Watford, 0845 0753993 7 May Tap Factory An amazing production, showing many genres of dance, in an urban setting. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury, 0844
10 May Blofeld and Baxter Memories of Test Match Special. Hawthorn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117
12 - 17 May Little Shop of Horrors Presented by Watford Operatic Society. Watford Palace Theatre, Watford, 01923 225671 12 - 17 May Fame The Musical With breathtaking dance routines and show stopping tunes, Fame is the feel good sensation that you will never forget. Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 14 - 17 May The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Join HD&OS Young Idea as they journey into the magical world of Narnia. Hertford Theatre, 01992 531500 14 - 17 May Jesus Christ Superstar Stevenage Lytton Players present Tim Rice’s and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock opera based on the last week of Jesus’ life. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 18 May Brian Conley The multi-talented and irrepressible Brian Conley returns to the stage in this all-new touring show. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 19 May Suggs In Suggs: My Life Story the Madness frontman takes to the stage in a hilarious, yet moving, one man tour de force. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 19 - 24 May Avenue Q Sesame Street for adults. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 19 - 20 May An Evening with Pam Ayres Pam Ayres brings her latest show to the Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage following the recent publication of her new book of poetry, ‘You made me Late Again!’ Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 20 - 24 May A Midsummer Night’s Dream Northern Ballet’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream sees the romantic antics of a touring dance company played out on one magical night as the Company travels by sleeper train from London to Edinburgh. Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 21 - 24 May Fourteen A bittersweet comedy drama about growing up in Watford in the 80s. Watford Palace
22 May The Rite of Spring/Romeo and Juliet The story of Shakespeare’s rival households is played out using half masks and piano four-hands to create a music centred physical theatre piece. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 23 May The Little Mermaid Join Ballet Theatre UK on this dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s all-time favourite story. Rhodes Theatre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 25 May Paul Hollywood Paul Hollywood Live - Get Your Bake On! sees Paul take to the stage for an evening of baking, comedy and fun. Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 27 - 31 May Pygmalion Alistair McGowan leads Rula Lenska and Jamie Foreman in the centenary production of Shaw’s enduring masterpiece. Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 28 - 31 May Frankenstein’s Creature Mary Shelley’s gothic tale is brought to life in a completely new musical penned by local writers. The Court Theatre @ Pendley, Tring, 07543 560478 28 May Meet the Author: Chris Tarrant Best known for presenting ITV’s ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ for fifteen years, Chris Tarrant comes to talk about his new book: ‘Dad’s War’. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 29 - 31 May Shady Business Starring Scott Wright, Zoe Lister and David Callister. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 30 - 31 May Up Pompeii Baroque Theatre Company present this hilarious romp through ancient Pompeii brings back all the television favourites in this full-length play. Hawthorn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 30 May - 28 June Marry Me, Or Be Evicted A Victorian comedy melodrama, in which everything that could go wrong does go wrong, with hilarious results. Market Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 433553 30 May Derek Acorah The Enlightenment Tour. Rhodes Theatre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 30 - 31 May Frank Skinner Frank Skinner brings his brand new show to Watford Colosseum. Watford Colosseum, Watford, 0845 0753993
MUSIC 2 May Barron Knights ‘The Guvnors’ bring their hits and humour to the Gordon Craig Theatre. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200
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Beds, Herts & Bucks 2 May Toploader Toploader are back on the road againa with their new album, ‘Only Human’. Watford Colosseum, Watford, 0845 0753993 6 May The Fureys & Davey Arthur Legends of Irish music and song. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 11 May Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem Soloists Dame Felicity Lott, Benjamin Hulett and Gareth John join Amersham & Chesham Bois Choral Society, local secondary school choirs and Buckinghamshire Youth Orchestra in a charity performance of Benjamin Britten’s moving and spectacular choral work. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury, 0844 8717607 12 May Graham Gouldman and Friends The ‘Heart Full of Songs’ show will feature 10cc classics as well as songs from Graham’s highly acclaimed solo album, ‘Love And Work’. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 16 May Clare Teal Clare celebrates the music of her heroines Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Judy Garland, Doris Day and many of their illustrious contemporaries. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 17 May Bedford Sinfonia From Russia with Love. Programme includes pieces by Tchaikovsky, Glazunov, Prokofiev and Rachmaninov. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 17 May Rachmaninov - Vespers Complemented by shorter pieces by Tavener and Pärt. Performed by St Albans Chamber Choir. St Albans Cathedral, 01727 860780 17 May The Aurora Ensemble Programme includes pieces by Zemlinsky, Ibert, Nielsen, Jim Parker, Carter, Reicha and Bizet. Hawthorn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 18 May Big Country The 80s band bring all their hits, old and new, to the Corn Exchange. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 21 May Royal Philharmonic Orchestra A concert celebrating John Lill’s 70th Birthday, the programme includes works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Dvořák. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury, 0844 8717607 23 May Teleman Teleman come to Bedford Esquires as part of their debut album tour. Bedford Esquires, Bedford, 01234 340120 24 - 25 May The Drifters The Optimum Tour, featuring the current line up Pierre Herelle, Michael Williams, Ryan King and Carlton Powell. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 25 May Judie Tzuke Judie is touring the UK playing tracks from her new album ‘Woman Overboard’ as well as performing many of her wonderful classics. The
Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 28 May Jools Holland Musical master of ceremonies Jools Holland and his much loved Rhythm & Blues Orchestra bring their audience-pleasing, foot-stomping ‘big band’ sound to The Alban Arena. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 29 May The Big Band Presented by Five Star Swing. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 30 May Nigel Kennedy and Oxford Philomusica Expect musical fireworks as Nigel takes to the stage for Beethoven’s sparkling Violin Concerto. But before that, the Philomusica will open the concert with Brahms’s Third Symphony. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury, 0844 8717607 31 May Boogie Night’s – 80′s Reunion An all hits concert party reunion starring Chic La Freak, Heatwave & Phil Fearon and Galaxy. Grove Theatre, Dunstable 01582 290333
ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 11 May Bawden’s Britain This exhibition celebrates Edward Bawden’s unique take on Britain and its inhabitants, both human and animal. From wood pigeons to church spires on a wallpaper design to a village bobby in one of his historic linocuts, Bawden’s closely observed depictions of British life show a wit and humour that is unique to the artist. The Higgins Bedford, Beford, 01234 718618 1 May - 22 June Recording Bedfordshire An opportunity to participate in a season of exhibitions at The Higgins Bedford dedicated to the British landscape. They’re inviting visitors to submit their own A5-sized Bedfordshire landscape creations to form part of an exhibition in the Connections Gallery. The Higgins Bedford, Bedford, 01234 718618 1 - 6 May Edward Robert Hughes - The Last Pre-Raphaelite The artist Edward Robert Hughes worked at the heart of the Pre-Raphaelite circle and was a close associate of many of its major members. St Albans Cathedral, 01727 860780 1 - 24 May Artworks - Vision and Memory An exhibition of paintings and prints from eight artists who met whilst studying at the University of Hertfordshire and formed, with others, the Artworks group. They work independently but over the years have come together to collaborate in workshops and exhibitions. Hertford Gallery, Hertford, 01992 531500 1 May - 28 Sept Valiant Hearts: World War I - Woburn and Its Stories To commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of World War I, ‘Valiant Hearts’ will tell the stories of those connected to Woburn Abbey including the Duke and Duchess of Bedford, those working on the
Estate and the people from the surrounding villages. Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn, 01525 290333 3 May - 1 June Edition3 Edition3 is an Oxford-based fine art print group consisiting of Morna Rhys, Jane Peart and Heather Power. Showing a wonderful mix of printmaking on paper and glass. Obsidian Art, Stoke Mandeville, 01296 612150 7 - 21 May Step: School Art Winners An exhibition by The Christian charity, Step,who challenged creative students in schools across St Albans to create pieces of art around the Christian theme of This exhibition will showcase the artwork created by the three winners and three runners up. St Albans Cathedral, St Albans, 01727 860780 19 - 29 May In My Life A visual diary of drawings and paintings by Alan Briggs spanning a lifetime. Letchworth Arts Centre, Letchworth Garden City, 01462 670788 22 May - 26 Oct London A new exhibition at The Higgins Bedford, showcases Edward Bawden’s unique and iconic vision of the city. the exhibition includes examples of Bawden’s work for London Underground, his large, structural linocuts of London monuments and London markets, and images of the Horse Guards and Kew Gardens. The Higgins Bedford, Bedford, 01234 718618
SPECIAL EVENTS 1 - 3 May Hertford Theatre Week Hertford Theatre Week is an adjudicated Drama Competition and a qualifying festival for the National Drama Festivals Association All-Winners Festival. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 3 - 5 May Hertfordshire Garden Show Three day event offering everything for gardeners with a wide variety of exhibitors including several Hampton Court and Chelsea participants, floral and craft marquees, demonstrations, plus a large range of plants and products on display and for sale. Knebworth House, Knebworth, 01438 812661 9 - 10 May Bedford:Bamberg Beer Festival 2014 Enjoy the best exports from Bedford’s twin town, Bamberg, with over 40 different German Beers, Wines & Schnapps on offer. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 24 - 26 May Kite Festival The event will showcase kites from the four corners of the globe including America, Canada, Japan, China, Germany, France, Holland and Belgium as well as flyers from across the UK. Alongside the various demonstrations in the arena will be a whole host of other attractions, food and drink, entertainment, music and kite stalls specialising in kite equipment, clothes and other accessories. Russell Park, Bedford, 01234 718349
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Royston
Royst on History & Hospitality
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ositioned on the North Hertfordshire boarder Royston is a small market town that ticks all the boxes. With a market dating back to when the first market rights were granted in 1189, Royston is a town full of character and charm. The town has several historical buildings and an unusual man-made cave with medieval carvings. Royston has grown up at the intersection of the Ickenield Way and the Roman Ermine Street, which was built almost 2,000 years ago. Royston has strong royal links including the Old Palace of James I in Kneesworth Street. The King, who loved hunting on the heath, signed the death warrant for adventurer Walter Raleigh at his desk in the palace. Things to See Royston has much to attract the modern visitor including a range of popular shops and some stunning historical buildings. The Museum features changing exhibitions, memorabilia relating to the town’s history and is home to the Royston Tapestry, which depicts scenes of interest from the town’s past. Work has been continuing since 1991 and the finished embroidery, in the style of
the Bayeux Tapestry, will be 110 feet long. One of the town’s main attractions is its unique and fascinating cave, which lies beneath the bustling town centre. Visitors climb down to discover an amazing cavern, intricately carved with religious and pagan symbols. It was rediscovered after a workman stumbled on the opening in 1742 but its origin and purpose remains keenly disputed. If you would like to visit the cave, it is open weekend afternoons from 2.30pm – 5pm between April and September and Wednesdays during August only. It is managed by Royston History Society on behalf of Royston Town Council. www.roystoncave.co.uk Tel: 01763 245484 The Royston Crow is still the town newspaper and the majestic Columbian printing press which was used from the first edition in 1855, can be seen in pride of place in Royston Museum. It is also home to the Whydale collection. Ernest Herbert Whydale exhibited at the Royal Academy throughout his life. He was a talented etcher and he contributed one to Queen Mary’s Doll’s House. Ernest lived in Royston for over thirty years and many of his artworks have
remained locally to be viewed by all. www.roystonmuseum.org.uk Shopping Royston holds general markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, between 8am and 2pm. Royston hosts the annual kite festival on Therfield Heath, taking place Sunday 3rd, 10.30am to 4.30pm. Check out www.north-herts.gov.uk There’s good news for shoppers visiting Royston – it’s free to park after 3pm thanks to a new initiative from Royston First, set up after the town voted to become a Business Improvement District last year. Royston also boasts a new Green Flag award for its Priory Gardens and awardwinning toilets at Fish Hill. Food & Drink With its rich history, its no surprise that Royston is home to many traditional pubs and restaurants that offer a superb choice for Sunday lunch and good hearty food. You’ll find many country pubs to choose from but check out The Chequers in nearby Fowlmere, ideal for a summer drink or try the award-winning food at The Cabinet in close by Reed.
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Home Accessories & Gifts Interior Design Ian Mankin Fabric Farrow & Ball Paint & Paper Furniture Painting Upholstery Service Curtains & Cushions
Baldock
Baldock
Beautiful
D
espite being the smallest town in North Hertfordshire Baldock has a beautiful array of architecturally significant buildings, and has more listed buildings than any other towns in the district. In fact, it is among only five towns in the whole of Hertfordshire listed by the Council for British Archaeology as being of national importance. It remains true to its history as a coaching town centre of the malting industry, but is in no way stuck in the past - there is an attractive shopping environment and a vibrant community life.
What’s the history? Baldock’s history spans back to pre-Roman times, when it was the home to the Catuvalauni tribe. One of the most ancient roads in Britain, the Icknield Way (which runs from Stone Henge to East Anglia), passes by the town, which explains its significance in days gone by as previous residents capitalised on passing trade. After a period of decline, the area enjoyed a surge of activity again in the Medieval era, when the land was granted to the Knights Templar and the town as we know it today first began to take shape. The Elizabethan period saw a surge in the requirement for travel, and the
period of coach travel stretching from the 16th century until the 19th marked the beginning of Baldock’s role as a major centre of innkeeping. Inevitably, plenty of beer was required for all of these travellers, and North East Hertfordshire was a centre for growing barley, which was made into malt for the beer. Maltings sprung up in Baldock and the town prospered, contributing in part to the stunning Georgian frontages that characterise the town.
features of the towns history and the Society hosts talks once every two months on subjects relevant to the town’s history. Baldock Town Hall, Baldock, SG7 6AX Baldock has a range of interesting shops including a number of speciality shops selling products such as antiques and home furnishings. The main shopping streets are High Street, Whitehorse Street and Hitchin Street. Some shops close early on Thursdays. Baldock also has a good outdoor market held every Wednesday in the High Street.
Shopping & culture The towns historic properties lends itself perfectly well to the creating and consuming of good art, so it’s no surprise that Baldock is home to several fantastic art galleries. 1066 Fine Art is one gallery, and is fast becoming one of the UK’s most innovative art venues. Its showing space is cutting edge yet relaxed and houses a marvelous array of works to suit every taste and budget. Baldock has a fascinating museum detailing the town’s history. Open Wednesday’s 11am to 1.30pm and Sundays 2pm to 4pm, it is a small community-run museum staffed by volunteers. It features changing displays exploring particular
Places to eat & stay Baldock has an excellent selection of restaurants and take aways - there are more than 20 places to eat. Cuisine available includes English, Chinese, Greek, Indian, Italian and Thai. The town also has a number of pubs offering a range of food from light bar snacks to 3 course dinners. Templars Hotel and Restaurant offers an authentic blend of English and Greek cuisine served in its modern restaurant and a number of affordable guest rooms which are comfortable and tastefully decorated and include a full English cooked breakfast. 20 High Street, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 6AX Tel : 01462 893620
Keep an eye out for Staffy b
Summer party at 1066 Gallery
Set on the high street, Staffy b has quickly become one of Baldock’s go to shops for all things interior. Now just over four years old, the store has everything needed to create your dream home including an interior design service as well as a lovely range gifts for all occasions and budgets. Customers can make a style statement in their home with the stores one off vintage pieces. Ever-changing stock of linen cupboards, benches, cabinets and mirrors ensures the showroom looks different on every visit. Following an expansion of the store last August, an interior design was launched which assists with furniture painting, fabric by the metre, cushions, curtains, blinds and upholstery. 63 High St. Baldock, SG7 6BG. Tel: 01462 895379
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Biggleswade
Biggleswade
Discover
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iggleswade is a thriving market town and civil parish located on the River Ivel in Bedfordshire. The town’s population has increased by almost 10 per cent over the past decade, primarily due to good transport links and a rail link to London. New housing developments mean that expansion is predicted to continue for the foreseeable future. What’s the history? The area around Biggleswade is thought to have been inhabited from around 10,000 BC and it also has a mention in the Doomsday Book. The Saxons also settled in the town in the 5th Century and in Roman times, a loop road known as the White Way passed through Biggleswade. The River Ivel links Biggleswade with the neighbouring town of Sandy, another market town that was originally a Roman settlement and was probably an important trading centre and staging post in the Roman era. Having survived through the centuries on 16 June 1785 a large fire started at the Crown Inn and spread rapidly through the town. By the time the fire had been brought under control, nearly one-third of the town had
been destroyed, including 103 houses leaving 332 people homeless. A national appeal was launched to raise funds for the many people who had lost their homes and their livelihoods. In the local parish church there is a stained glass window depicting the fire. Shopping Biggleswade is surrounded by shops, with many in attractive converted buildings such as the old Market house. A general market is held every Saturday in the Market Square and offers a good range of locally sourced produce. Attractions Biggleswade is home to one of the biggest bird of prey centres in the UK. With over 300 birds to see the Bird of Prey Centre offers a range of experience days and events such as corporate entertainment and birthdays. Herrings Green Farm, Cotton End Road, Biggleswade MK45 3DT. Tel: 01767 627527 Jordans Mill is a new venue with a cafe, historic water mill, landscaped gardens and shop located just outside the town. Visitors can enjoy afternoon tea with freshly made
and locally sourced food, informative tours of the historic mill and gardens and a sunny decked verandah overlooking the River Ivel. Holme Mills, Langford Road, Biggleswade SG18 9JY. Tel 01767316503 Places to eat Biggleswade has a choice of fantastic bars, restaurants and pubs with something to suit even the fussiest of taste buds. If you fancy a coffee stop by The Lounge at The Old Maltings. A coffee lounge and bistro by day, the establishment comes alive at night serving wine, beer and small plates at the bar. Sophisticated and relaxed, it has three separate lounge areas and a 50 seat courtyard. The small plates menu is available with a succulent selection of meatballs, mini lamb cutlets, prawns, chorizo, roasted potatoes with a hot sauce and crabcakes to name but a few. Church Street, Biggleswade. Tel: 0870 760 5019 Il Carafino is a delightful traditional Italian restaurant where you can enjoy freshly prepared authentic cuisine, with fresh fish & shellfish/lobster a speciality. Palace Street, Biggleswade. Tel: 01767 310390 n
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New Releases
LEISURE MAY
THE WOLF OF WALL STREET, MARTIN SCORSESE A success at the box office, Scorsese’s latest movie is finally available on DVD. A mesmerising Leonardo Di Caprio plays the role of Jordan Belford, in his luxurious, exaggerating and impudent lifestyle as a millionaire stockbroker. In Scorsese’s probably most humorous movie, Wall Street is depicted in its glamorous ruthlessness, and remarkably without any direct moral judgement. THE OBSTACLE IS THE WAY, RYAN HOLIDAY We give up too easily. With a simple change of attitude, what seem like insurmountable obstacles become once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Ryan Holiday draws on the philosophy of the Stoics (what is in the way, is the way) to guide you in every situation, showing that what blocks our path actually opens one that is new and better. An inspiring reading for everyone. POMPEII, PAUL W.S. ANDERSON If you love romance and astonishing special effects, don’t miss Paul W.S. Anderson’s Pompeii. Set in 79 A.D., it’s the epic story of Milo, a slave turned invincible gladiator who finds himself in a race against time to save his true love Cassia,
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RELEASES
the beautiful daughter of a wealthy merchant who has been unwillingly betrothed to a corrupt Roman Senator. As Mount Vesuvius erupts, he must fight to save his beloved as Pompeii crumbles around him. MALEFICENT, ROBERT STROMBERG This eagerly awaited movie tells the “Sleeping Beauty” tale from the perspective of the villainous Maleficent and reveals the events that hardened her heart and drove her to curse young Princess Aurora. Featuring a spectacular cast, above all Angelina Jolie in the role of the villain – in all its dark charm. Once again Hollywood shows how tales are not an exclusive of children. the SKIN COLLECTOR, jeFFERY DEAVer A talented tattoo artist is using poison instead of ink. On his victim’s skin, a cryptic message: ‘the second’. Drafted in to investigate, NYPD detective Lincoln Rhyme and his associate Amelia Sachs find the scene has been scrubbed of evidence. All except for one trace - a scrap of paper that connects this case with one they will never forget: the Bone Collector. A highly compelling crime series that will leave you breathless. n
JOY N E
Simona Arcaro shares her selection of books and films to keep you entertained this month
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For more information, contact us now 01223 855637 nuffieldhealth.com/cambridgehospital *Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention. ***Terms and conditions apply.
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