East of England Visitor Guide 2018

EAST OF ENGLAND VISITOR GUIDE 2018

EA ST O F EN GLAN D

2018 EDITION

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VISIT EAST ANGLIA 2018 8-11 BEDFORDSHIRE 13-39 CAMBRIDGESHIRE 40-57 ESSEX 59-73 HERTFORDSHIRE

CONTENTS W

ith its coastal and country landscapes, market towns and villages, and many family attractions and events, East Anglia is the perfect destination for a holiday, short break or day out. In this guide we cover how to make the most of a trip to this beautiful region...

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75-121 NORFOLK 123-162 SUFFOLK

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Please be aware that information and contact details may have changed since publication in March 2018.

For more information or to advertise in the next edition, please contact one of the sales team: Darren Marshall (07826 628680); Stewart Hedges (07595 894557); Jim Leishman (01954 267635).

Editor: Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk Visit East Anglia Guide 2018 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, information and dates were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.

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AMPTHILL Take a trip to Ampthill, a small town and civil parish located between Bedford and Luton. It’s best known for its regular market, which has taken place every Thursday for centuries.

The town has several lively pubs, a wide variety of restaurants, and a selection of small independent specialist shops and businesses.

A trip to English Heritage’s Wrest Park is highly recommended (www.english-heritage. org.uk/visit/places/wrest-park/). It features over 90-acres of historic landscapes and a French-style mansion. Stroll in the gardens and enjoy miles of reinstated historic pathways as you discover the garden buildings.

Zip along to the children's play area, take tea in the café and explore the hidden treasures in the archaeological stores.

The annual Ampthill Festival takes place every summer. This year’s event takes place 29 June to 1 July 2018; featuring AmpRocks, Ampthill Park Proms, Gala Day. The Ampthill Literary Festival takes place 28 April.

BEDFORD Bedford is a town steeped in history so why not spend the day discovering some of the delights? You can start in the town centre where St Paul’s Church stands, dating back to the 13th century (www.stpaulschurchbed ford.org.uk). The BBC broadcast services in secret from one of its chapels during the war, which you can learn more about at the Higgins Bedford Museum (www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk).

The town centre has its fair share of shopping opportunities. The town’s weekly charter, gourmet and home and garden markets are great for picking up local goods, while The Arcade boasts a number of independent retailers and the Harpur Centre has 30 stores trading over two levels.

The Embankment is a pedestrian walk, about a mile long, following the banks of the River Ouse through the town and bordered by a tree-lined public park. The gardens are very pretty and provide a pleasant way to view many of the main sites of the town including the Butterfly Bridge. The town’s War Memorial, designed by notable sculptor Charles Sergeant Jagger, is also located in these gardens and is well worth a look.

At the end of your walk the larger-than-life mock-tudor Embankment pub is there for refreshments.

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LEIGHTON BUZZARD The town which lies between Luton and Milton Keynes, contains a great deal of history within its borders. Leighton Buzzard has many old buildings, each with its own story to tell, which together make for an interesting visit. With many attractions, lovely restaurants and shopping available it’s a great place to explore.

It is well known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including Stockgrove Country Park; a 40-acre park situated just outside the town at Heath and Reach. With a lake, woodland walks, and picnic area, this park is the perfect place to go for a relaxing day off.

The Grand Union canal runs from London to Birmingham, and passes right through Leighton Buzzard. For a calming feel, take a walk along the towpath in either direction.

Canal cruises can be booked in advance, and canal boats can be booked from Grebe Canal Cruises.

The main market is located on the High Street. It takes place every Tuesday and Saturday with a Farmers’ Market visiting on the third Saturday of every month. On the first Saturday of every month, the council run pop up markets in support of people of all ages starting up in business.

USEFUL CONTACTS www.ampthill.info www.bedford.gov.uk www.lovebedford.co.uk www.bedpop.co.uk www.leightonbuzzardmarket.co.uk www.woburnvillage.co.uk www.woburnabbey.co.uk

WOBURN Home to Woburn Abbey, a Safari Park, Go Ape and the popular family resort Centre Parcs, it’s clear to see why Woburn has established itself as a ma jor tourist attraction of the East.

Woburn Abbey is a must visit. Dating back to 1145, it was originally a religious house for a group of Cistercian monks. Located on the Woburn Estate, visitors can explore 22 rooms within Woburn Abbey and over 28 acres of award-winning Humphry Repton inspired gardens, all set within 3,000 acres of deer park.

Woburn Safari Park is an action packed day out for all the family. From the Road Safari where you can go round as many times as you like to the Foot Safari where you can mingle with the animals and grab lunch before watching the keeper demonstrations.

It’s also home to Go Ape, a thrilling tree top adventure.

Give taste buds a treat at one of the many tea shops and cafes. Check out The Duchess Tearoom at Woburn Abbey or Woburn Coffee House on the Market Place for afternoon tea. For a dinner you won’t forget in a hurry book a table at the stylish Woburn Brasserie on Bedford Street or at the Michelin-starred Paris House.

During the summer months visit the outdoor swimming pool. Woburn also has a monthly Farmers’ Market on the third Sunday of the month organised by the Village Traders.

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Look up,

look down,

look around!

Registered Charity No 307534

Shuttleworth is home to the Collection of historic aircraft, vintage vehicles and motorcycles, a period House and a 19th-Century Swiss Garden

Old Warden Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9EP l 01767 627927 Whether you’ve come to explore the Swiss Garden, look around The Collection, or simply to enjoy our on-site restaurant and gift shop, Shuttleworth is always an interesting day out. Parking is free and there’s a Play Area for children that is disabled friendly. Events run throughout the year, and group visits for Afternoon Tea in The House can be combined with Swiss Garden tours and/or entry to The Collection. Finding us is easy - we are just off the A1 at Biggleswade!

Scan the QR code to watch a short Swiss Garden video

www.shuttleworth.org

East of England Tourist Guides 2018 HP.indd 1

Scan the QR code to watch a short Collection video

06/12/2017 11:33:01

WHAT’S ON? 10 Mar - 23 Sept Celebrating Women of Bedfordshire

The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

8 Apr, 13 May, 10 Jun, 8 Jul, 12 Aug, 14 Oct, 11 Nov & 9 Dec Woburn Antiques And Collectors Fair

Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road 10-Apr Ramp ‘n’ Roll Harpur Square, Bedford

28-Apr Ampthill LitFest 2018

Ampthill Parkside Hall, Woburn Road, Ampthill, MK45 2HX www.ampthillfestival.co.uk/literary

13-May Made in Bedford Artisan Fair

Bedford Corn Exchange, St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40 1SL www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk

20 May, 8 Jul & 16 Sept Bedford Flea

St Pauls Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ www.facebook.com/BedfordFlea

3-Jun Big Lunch Food Festival

Town Centre, Leighton Buzzrd www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/your-town/ events 16-Jun Taste Bedford The Embankment, Bedford, MK40 www.bedpop.co.uk/bedpop-presents-taste

23-24 Jun Woburn Abbey Garden Show

Woburn Abbey Gardens, MK17 9WA www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events

28-Jun Linslade Canal Festival

Tidenfoot Waterside Park, Mentmore Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 2AE www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/canal-festival

30-Jun AmpRocks

Ampthill Great Park www.ampthillfestival.co.uk/amprocks

5-Aug Proms in Bedford Park

Bedford Park, No 98 Kimbolton Rd, Bedford MK40 2PF www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk

13-15 Aug Afternoon Tea with speaker Gillian Perry MBE

Woburn The Sculpture Gallery, MK17 9WA www.sculpturegallerywoburn.co.uk

Map courtesy of Bedfordshire Archive and Records Office

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Coach House, Thornh am, 5 Bed

The Gables, Thornh am, 4 Bed

Lavende r Barn, Holme-next-the-Sea, 5 Bed

Hope Cottage, Holme-next-the-Sea, 1 Bed

The Old Smithy, Holme-next-the-sea, 1 Bed

The Beach Hut

Available for hire to Guests staying in any of the Ocean Breaks Norfolk properties.

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GARDENS OF CAMBRIDGE

When you want to escape the city, head to one of the many beautiful green spaces Cambridge has to offer.

A stone’s throw from the city centre, Jesus Green is a beautiful stretch of parkland bordering the River Cam and the nearby Jesus College. Complete with an openair swimming pool, skate park and tennis courts, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll at any time of year.

Any first-time visitor to Cambridge should take a walk along the ‘Backs’ of the riverside colleges. To really get into the Cambridge spirit, hire a bike from one of the city’s rental outlets and freewheel your way around. Back in the city centre, the University Botanic Garden is a 40-acre oasis of beautifully landscaped grounds and glasshouses that is home to a huge diversity of plants, trees and bird life. The Garden offers all-year interest and seasonal inspiration and has a number of trails available.

You don’t have to stray far from the city to find a wealth of natural beauty and stunning gardens to enjoy. The nearby village of Grantchester is a fantastic destination for a short walk.

Much-loved by generations of Cambridge families is Wandlebury Country Park – some 45 ha of tranquil woods and chalk grassland. West of the city on the edge of Coton village is The Countryside Reserve; a working farm, offering some 120ha of pasture and agricultural land with diverse wildlife habitats, routes for walkers, cyclists, joggers and more. Both areas are owned and cared for by charity Cambridge Past, Present & Future.

Cambridge Botanic Garden Pool; credit Visit England, Iain Lewis.

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STEP BACK IN TIME

Cambridge has profoundly helped to shape the modern world, and there is a real sense of living history almost everywhere you look - as you might expect from a city whose University has produced 15 former British Prime Ministers and 87 affiliates of the University who have won the Nobel Prize (more than any other single institution).

History and environment are inseparable in Cambridge, from the descendant of the tree outside Trinity College that inspired Sir Isaac Newton to devise his theory of gravitation to The Eagle pub where Crick and Watson sketched out the structure of DNA on a napkin.

The University of Cambridge is home to 31 autonomous colleges. Each has its own distinctive atmosphere and rich history to soak up and enjoy - from the medieval Peterhouse to the 20th century Churchill College.

No trip would be complete without gazing upon the ma jestic King’s College Chapel - the picture postcard symbol of the city and its University that is known around the world. The Great Court at Trinity College, founded by the infamous Henry VIII, offers a scene that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries.

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The most idyllic way to see the city has to be by drifting slowly down the River Cam on a punt - a flat-bottomed boat steered and powered by a pole. Once on board, see history pass before your eyes as you take in ‘The Backs’ of the Colleges and glide under the famous Bridge of Sighs (St John’s College) or the Mathematical Bridge (Queens’ College).

Not forgetting Corpus Christi College, founded by members of the Town Guilds of Corpus Christi and the Blessed Virgin Mary, the College houses a collection of Anglo-Saxon manuscripts.

Old Court is the finest surviving early medieval court in Cambridge and famous members have included the dramatist Christopher Marlowe.

To satisfy your thirst for culture, Cambridge has everything from paintings by Titian and Picasso through to World War II fighter planes, to fossils dating back 550 million years. Its museums house some of the most fascinating and diverse collections in the world - and best of all, most are free to enter.

King’s Parade; credit: Visit England, Iain Lewis

Farmland Museum & Denny Abbey

Reg. Charity No. 289555

A FASCINATING PLACE TO VISIT FOR ALL AGES A family friendly museum celebrating farming & village life in a beautiful rural setting. Explore the remains of a 12th century Abbey.

Visit website for admission prices & details of all events.

Picnic & play area. Gift Shop. Tearoom open weekends, bank holidays & family activity afternoons. Hot drinks available daily.

Free Parking. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome.

OPEN DAILY

BETWEEN 1 April until 28 October 2018.

Tuesday – Sunday 11am – 5pm and Bank Holiday Mondays – 11am – 5pm The Farmland Museum & Denny Abbey, Ely Road, Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire CB25 9PQ Tel: 01223 860988 Email: info@farmlandmuseum.org.uk

Keep up to date by following us on

www.farmlandmuseum.org.uk

Open Gardens 2018

adc theatre

corpus playroom

Old Moulsham Danbury Great Notley Little Waltham Mill End, Bradwell-on-Sea Galleywood Witham

Sunday 3rd June Sunday 10th June Sunday 17th June Sunday 24th June Sunday 1st July Sunday 8th July Sunday 8th July

Enjoy an unforgettable day of colour and fragrance in beautiful Essex gardens, opening to the public through the summer in support of Farleigh Hospice. For more information or to book your ticket, please call 01245 457411 or visit

The ADC Theatre is the liveliest theatre in Cambridge. We have helped to launch the careers of many theatre luminaries including Sir Ian McKellen, Emma Thompson and Stephen Fry.

www.farleighhospice.org/gardens

It is because you care that we can www.farleighhospice.org Registered charity no 284670

Photo Credit: Evelina Gumileva

view our full season at adctheatre.com

ARTS & MUSEUMS

There are exhibits to excite and inspire visitors of all ages and interests. The Fitzwilliam collection includes antiquities, applied arts, illuminated manuscripts, and paintings by Constable, Hogarth, and Gainsborough. Gaze upon a masterpiece by Rubens in King’s College Chapel, visit Concorde at The Imperial War Museum Duxford, take a trip to the North and South Poles at the Scott Polar Research Institute, and still have time to see the specimens Darwin gathered on his famous trip on the Beagle at the Museum of Zoology.

The world-famous Fitzwilliam Museum has been described as ‘the finest small museum in Europe’ and is an essential stop on any cultural itinerary of Cambridge. The diverse collection includes antiquities from ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece and illuminated manuscripts.

For something completely different, try Kettle’s Yard - formerly the home of Jim Ede, a curator at the Tate Gallery, London, whose private art collection has been preserved and opened to the public in this beautiful house, alongside his furniture and household objects. Just next door is the Kettle’s Yard Gallery of Contemporary Art, and just around the corner is the Cambridge and County Folk Museum.

Further afield, visitors to Cambridge are also spoilt for choice with beautiful stately homes such as Anglesey Abbey and Wimpole Hall and just 15 miles north of Cambridge is Ely, Britain’s second smallest city and home to an awe-inspiring cathedral dating back nearly 1,000 years. www.visitcambridge.org Image credit: Visit Cambridge

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FOOD & DRINK With a tantalising array of independent eateries, including a two-star Michelin restaurant, Cambridge is a haven for anyone who just wants a good bite to eat and is an ideal destination for the more discerning restaurant connoisseur.

If you are looking for a quiet lunch overlooking the River Cam, an excellent gastro ‘pub-grub’ or wish to dine al fresco, there is plenty of choice to serve your needs. The city has an assortment of tea rooms offering a tempting range of cakes and treats and the cafés and brasseries provide a welcome break from shopping and sightseeing.

As well as the usual chain restaurants Cambridge boasts a diverse mix of independent restaurants. Meat lovers should try The Pint Shop on Peas Hill, which serves up chargrilled meat dishes, real ales and a great selection of gin.

For rustic Italian snacks visit Aromi. The popular establishment now has three restaurants in the city. Or for dinner with a view, book a table at SIX, at the Varisty Hotel, where you can enjoy great food and panoramic views of the city.

If you want to experience the best of the Cambridge food scene book onto the Cambridge Food Tour. A number of tours are available to help you taste first-hand some of Cambridge’s finest food.

If you would rather just get away from it all, the surrounding villages are home to country pubs serving quality foods and sumptuous real ales.

SHOPPING IN CAMBRIDGE Cambridge is fortunate to have an exciting and brilliant mix of independent shops that should not be missed, often hidden away down beautiful winding lanes and side streets. The ‘Hidden Gems’ of the city are well worth exploring to find style and individuality in an attractive historic setting.

The Market Square changes character on Sunday as it hosts the weekly Arts, Craft and Local Produce Market. Again, trading between 10am-4pm, this popular market is a showpiece for some of the region’s most talented artists, craftspeople, photographers and esteemed farmers.

Down by the beautiful and undulating River Cam you’ll find a mix of specialist shops, bars and restaurants scattered around the Quayside area.

Also not to be missed is the All Saints Garden Art and Craft Market, held every Saturday, in a beautiful garden just across the road from Trinity College. This market has earned itself a justified reputation for quality handmade products at affordable prices.

Between 10am-4pm opposite the Guildhall, every Monday to Saturday, you’ll find the famous and historic market boasting a wide array of stalls. These offer everything from fruit and vegetables to clothes and gifts.

Cambridge also offers a number of exciting shopping areas in and around the city centre. These include: The Grand Arcade, with over 60 shops, including a five-storey John Lewis Store; Lion Yard, a vibrant and cosmopolitan mix of high street names in the heart of the city centre; Christ’s Lane with numerous trendy stores; and the Grafton Centre, which features well-known brands, restaurants and a cinema. Rose Crescent offers a combination of independent retailers and brands such as Molton Brown and there is also a selection of food outlets.

Green Street and Sussex Street hosts a collection of independent shops and boutiques. For more on Cambridge’s independent stores visit www.independent-cambridge.co.uk Mill Road is renowned for its diverse range of restaurants and food shops, and hosts regular events throughout the year.

With independent boutiques, open-air markets and household brands, Cambridge has everything you could need for an unforgettable city shopping break.

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Cambridge Arts Theatre

CAMBRIDGE

ATTRACTIONS ADC Theatre The oldest University playhouse. Its resident company is Cambridge University Amateur Dramatic Club (CUADC) whose alumni include Sir Derek Jacobi, Griff Rhys Jones and Stephen Fry. Park Street, 01223 300085. www.adctheatre.com

Anglia Ruskin University Mumford Theatre Here you can enjoy an arts programme which includes a free series of Friday lunchtime concerts, the on-campus Mumford Theatre and Ruskin Gallery, and concerts and productions in the City. East Road, 01223 352932. tickets.mumfordtheatre.anglia.ac.uk

Arts Picturehouse Three-screen cinema showing a wide range of films spanning art-house, independent, classic, documentary and world cinema, as well as Hollywood blockbusters.

38-39 St Andrew’s Street, 0871 9025720. www.picturehouses.com

The Backs The Cambridge Backs is a stretch of reclaimed land, which runs along the back of the riverside colleges. It provides stunning views throughout the year, and is covered with a blanket of daffodils and crocuses during the spring.

Queen’s Road. 01223 457000

Cambridge American Military Cemetery The hallowed grounds on which are buried or commemorated 8,939 men and women of the American Armed Forces who lost their lives in Britain during the Second World War. Visitors can learn more with its many displays and exhibitions. Coton, 01954 210350. www.abmc.gov/cemeteries-me morials/europe/cambridge-american-cemetery

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A 666-seat theatre that attracts some of the highest-quality touring productions in the country, as well as many shows direct from, or prior to, seasons in the West End. Its annual Christmas pantomime is an established tradition in the City. 6 St Edward’s Passage, 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Cambridge Bike Tours Cover the city, more of the river and get off the beaten track on an antique British bike. Your eccentric guide takes you round the city and out into the countryside at a leisurely pace to really soak up the atmosphere. 07902 118100 www.cambridgebiketours.co.uk

Cambridge Chauffeur Punts Chauffeured punting, self hire punting, guided river tours, weddings, conferences, hen parties, school groups and exclusive chauffeured punts with a Thai meal, strawberries and Champagne or entertainment. Silver Street, 01223 354164 www.punting-in-cambridge.co.uk

Cambridge Corn Exchange Situated within the heart of the city, Cambridge Corn Exchange is Cambridge’s biggest venue for music, comedy, shows and entertainment playing host to around 280 different events every year.

Wheeler Street, 01223 357851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/cornex

Cambridge & County Folk Museum Discover the real story of Cambridge and its people through this fascinating Museum of Cambridge life. Housed in a 17th century timber framed building which was the White Horse Inn for more than 300 years, this family-friendly museum displays a wealth of Cambridge tradition and history.

The museum hosts a number of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year and offers regular family and children’s activities and trails. Castle Street, 01223 355159. www.museumofcambridge.org.uk

Cambridge Leisure Park Cambridge Leisure is home to a nine-screen Cineworld cinema, 28-lane Tenpin bowling, the Cambridge Junction, gym, café, wide range of restaurants and bars. There is also a large Travel Lodge hotel. Clifton Road. www.cambridgeleisure.co.uk

Cambridge Museum of Technology Based in the original sewage pumping station the Museum exists to preserve and exhibit material that is relevant to the Cambridge area, either by its use or its invention. Cheddars Lane. 01223 500652. www.museumoftechnology.com

Cambridge University Botanic Garden John Stevens Henslow, professor of Botany, founded the Botanic Garden which develops and displays over 8,000 different plant species in 40 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, with many fascinating features including a lake, glasshouses, winter garden, rock gardens, and a superb collection of mature trees. The garden holds nine national collections, including Geranium and Fritillaria. Bateman Street, 01223 336265 www.botanic.cam.ac.uk

Cambridge University Library The University Library is a copyright library, which holds over seven million books and periodicals, and a million maps. The library has an exhibition centre in which members of the public can enjoy the riches of its collection. Exhibitions run throughout the year. West Road, 01223 333000. www.lib.cam.ac.uk

Cambridge University Press Bookshop The Cambridge University Press Bookshop is located on the oldest bookshop site in England. Books have been sold here since 1581. 1 Trinity Street, 01223 333333. www.cambridge.org/about-us/visit-bookshop

Christ’s College

gatehouse. This was the college of the famous poet John Milton and Charles Darwin was a student here between 1828 & 1831. St Andrew’s Street, 01223 334900. www.christs.cam.ac.uk

Christ’s Pieces The council purchased Christ’s Pieces in 1886 from Jesus College; it covers 10 acres and is one of the most important formal parks in the city. Centrally located, it is visited daily by thousands of shoppers as a thoroughfare between the city centre and the Grafton Centre. The seasonal display beds are extremely colourful both during winter and summer. Emmanuel Road, 01223 457000. www.cambridge.gov.uk/christs-pieces

Church of the Holy Sepulchre The architecturally stunning round church is Cambridge’s second oldest building.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of only four round churches in England. It is based on the Church of the Resurrection, which was consecrated in Jerusalem in 335.

Cambridge’s Norman round church was built in 1130. Regular guided walks on Monday, Saturday and Sunday. Bridge Street, www.christianheritage.org.uk

Clare College The second oldest college in Cambridge, with the oldest surviving river bridge. The old court is built in the renaissance style and could easily be mistaken for a palace.

Former students include Hugh Latimer, the Protestant reformer who was burnt at the stake by Mary Tudor. Trinity Lane, 01223 333200. www.clare.cam.ac.uk

Corpus Christi Corpus Christi contains the finest surviving medieval court in Cambridge. The college is also home to the impressive Grasshopper Clock. King’s Parade, 01223 338000. www.corpus.cam.ac.uk

Founded by Lady Margaret Beaufort, whose coat of arms and statue grace the

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Emmanuel College The college chapel was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, and completed in 1674. It contains a plaque to John Harvard, a former student of Emmanuel. St Andrew’s Street 01223 334200. www.emma.cam.ac.uk

Fitzwilliam Museum The Fitzwilliam museum is one of Britain’s earliest public museums. The present collections contain: European paintings ranging from the 14th Century to the present day; Egyptian, Greek and Roman antiquities; and the applied arts of Western Europe and Asia including sculpture, ceramics, furniture, coins and medals. A wide range of temporary exhibitions are also on offer, as well as an annually-changing display of contemporary sculpture in the Museum’s grounds.

Trumpington Street, 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

Grasshopper Clock The fabulously terrifying “Grasshopper Clock” on the corner of Corpus’ Taylor Library is a must-see for any Cambridge visitor. Unveiled to the public in September 2008, this extraordinary feat of new technology now stands proudly facing onto King’s Parade; its shining, 24-carat gold dial and gruesome time-keeper is a dazzling addition to the historic city centre. Corpus Christi College (view from corner of King’s Parade and Benet Street). www.corpus.cam.ac.uk

Great St Mary’s Church Great St Mary’s is the university church. Its tower was completed in 1608 and provides excellent panoramic views of the city and and University Colleges. Market Square, 01223 747273. www.gsm.cam.ac.uk

Jesus College Founded by John Alcock, Bishop of Ely, on the site of a 12th century nunnery in 1496.

The college has spacious grounds and pretty 16th century cloister court. Former

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students include Thomas Cranmer the first Protestant Archbishop of Canterbury, and Prince Edward, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II. Jesus Lane, 01223 339339. www.jesus.cam.ac.uk

Jesus Green This riverside park is the perfect venue to relax, picnic, walk, or play sport. Jesus Green’s outdoor swimming pool is situated in idyllic surroundings and close to the river.

There are floral displays and an Avenue of London Planes, planted in 1890, which dominates the central walkway.

Chesterton Road, 01223 457000. www.cambridge.gov.uk/jesus-green

The Junction One of the most diverse cultural venues in the UK, presenting 100s of performances each year, The Junction has three performance spaces that cover clubs, comedy, dance, live music, theatre and events for young people. Clifton Road, 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk

Kettle’s Yard A fine collection of modern art in a unique and beautiful domestic setting and a gallery showing regular exhibitions. Castle Street, 01223 748100. www.kettlesyard.co.uk

King’s College The Chapel is the grandest and most beautiful building in Cambridge and ranks amongst the most important examples of perpendicular (late gothic) architecture.

Visit the College grounds and Chapel and attend choral services in the Chapel.

King’s Parade, 01223 331212. www.kings.cam.ac.uk

New Hall Art Collection A permanent collection of contemporary art by women artists. With more than 350 artworks it is the largest and most significant collection of art by women in Europe. Murray Edwards College, 01223 762295. www-art.newhall.cam.ac.uk

Parker’s Piece

St John’s College

Parkers Piece is one of Cambridge’s most significant open spaces. It was named after Edward Parker, a cook who leased the land from Trinity College in Cambridge. Its greatest claim to fame is that it was where basic football association rules were formed.

It was in 1863 that these ‘Cambridge Rules’ became the defining influence on football association rules, many of which still apply to this day. Parkside, 01223 457000. www.cambridge.gov.uk/parkers-piece

The annual Cambridge and Oxford boat race began in 1829, when St John’s College challenged Oxford. St John’s Street, 01223 338600. www.joh.cam.ac.uk

Pembroke College The third oldest Cambridge College, founded by a French lady, Marie St Pol de Valence, the widowed Countess of Pembroke. The chapel was the first completed work of Sir Christopher Wren. Delightful gardens. Trumpington Street, 01223 338100. www.pem.cam.ac.uk

Peterhouse Hugh de Balsham, Bishop of Ely, founded Peterhouse, the first Cambridge College, in 1284. The Hall, which is the oldest in any Cambridge College, has work by William Morris, Burne Jones and Madox Browne.

Former students include Charles Babbage, the inventor of the early mechanical computer, and Sir Frank Whittle, who invented the jet engine. Peterhouse was the first Cambridge College to introduce electricity.

Trumpington Street, 01223 338200. www.pet.cam.ac.uk

Queens’ College Queens’ College is home to the famous wooden Mathematical Bridge. Silver Street, 01223 335511. www.queens.cam.ac.uk

Riverboat Georgina Enjoy a luxury river cruise along the Cam. Public trips are available throughout the year. Also available for private charter.

01223 929124 www.riverboatgeorginacambridge.co.uk

Scott Polar Research Institute Learn about the expeditions of Captain Scott, and other polar explorers. Lensfield Road, 01223 336540. www.spri.cam.ac.uk

Scudamore’s Punting Co The largest selection of boats in Cambridge with a choice of both chauffeured punt tours and self-hire craft. Mill Lane & Quayside, 01223 359750. www.scudamores.com

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences The museum houses a spectacular collection of fossil animals and plants of all geological ages from all over the world.

Downing Street, 01223 333456. www.sedgwickmuseum.org

Sidney Sussex College Sidney Sussex was the college of Oliver Cromwell, the great Lord Protector who was born in the nearby town of Huntingdon, and came up to Cambridge to study in 1616.

Cromwell’s skull was buried in the college ante-chapel in 1960. Sidney Street, 01223 338800. www.sid.cam.ac.uk

Trinity College The wealthiest college founded by Henry VIII towards the end of his life. Trinity is the college of Sir Isaac Newton, who had rooms between the chapel and gatehouse in the 17th century. Here you can see an apple tree, a descendant of Newton’s tree in Lincolnshire, which inspired his work on gravity. The college library was designed by Christopher Wren and completed by 1690.

Trinity Street, 01223 338400. www.trin.cam.ac.uk

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Come and experience one of the wonders of the Medieval World • • • • • •

Daily Ground Floor & Tower Tours Restaurant, Café & Gift Shops Stained Glass Museum Monastic Buildings & Gardens Specialist Exhibitions & Events Major Film & TV Location (The King’s Speech, The Crown) • Beautiful Riverside & Shops

Open Daily from 7am 01353 660349 www.elycathedral.org

Have you visited the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge?

Explore electronics, coding and control systems, revive your passion for retro gaming, discover the people and stories that laid the foundation for our digital age & so much more.

Interactive Workshops, Talks & Hands-on Experiences in a digital playground for all ages.

For our full programme visit: www.ComputingHistory.org.uk

ELY Ely has a beautiful waterside, seen best in the summer months, when you can enjoy a boat trip or a riverside walk. As well as an art gallery and the region’s largest antique centre, the riverside is home to a variety of eateries.

With the city centre only a two-minute walk away, your trip can be completed with a visit to one or more of the key visitor attractions such as the impressive Cathedral or Oliver Cromwell’s House. Not forgetting a visit to the many quaint and traditional shops selling a variety of unusual gifts to remember your visit by.

Your first port of call will no doubt be the medieval Cathedral. It is easy to see why it is Ely’s top tourist attraction. Wander around this magnificent building famous for its octagon tower or take advantage of having a more informative experience with a guided tour.

Tours also include optional visits to the octagon and west towers where the spectacular views make it well worth the climb.

Whilst in the Cathedral, don’t miss the chance of visiting the Stained Glass Museum, housed in the South Triforium. Regular tours and events are held throughout the year so you can get a better understanding of the history.

Before leaving the city centre, take the time to visit Ely Museum. Discover the story of Ely from prehistoric times to the 20th century set in the city’s former gaol.

Oliver Cromwell’s House is one of the only remaining homes of Cromwell’s with the exception of Hampton Court Palace in London. The house has been transformed to give you an insight into 17th century life. It hosts a range of fun ‘hands on’ activities for the whole family. The house also doubles as a tourist information centre.

Ely’s Waterside is a hotspot for visitors wishing to relax and enjoy afternoon tea or to take a boat trip. Stop off at one of the traditional tea rooms or restaurants or take a trip along the Great River Ouse on board the Liberty Belle, Ely’s Fenland Cruiser (Easter to October) and enjoy the live commentary.

For those with an interest in retail therapy or those looking for something a little different, the area offers an extensive range and mix of traditional and contemporary gift, craft and antique shops along with a variety of art galleries. For those who love a bargain, Ely holds three different markets including an award-winning Farmers’ Market on the second and fourth Saturday of every month, a regular General Market and Saturday Craft and Collectables Market.

The city’s heritage public art Eel Trail is an excellent way of seeing the historic city at its best. This circular walk, self-guided by brass waymarkers set in the ground, takes you past the oldest parts of Ely and down to the beautiful riverside.

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FOREST HEATH Forest Heath has a wonderful variety of landscapes to explore, from the chalk downlands of Newmarket, through to the rich agricultural fenlands in the west and the sandy brecklands in the north with its large lowland forest.

The largest town in the district, Newmarket, is the international home of horseracing and attracts visitors from all over the world.

While they may initially come to Newmarket for the racing, they discover that Newmarket has much to offer both new and returning visitors.

With magnificent buildings, wonderful views and an excellent location (with historic Cambridge and Ely on the doorstep), it is the perfect place to explore this region.

rebuilt in the 15th century, yet retains many features dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

The parish of Mildenhall is one of the largest in Suffolk and the town boasts a rich history remembered in the Mildenhall Museum. Here, you can see a replica of the Mildenhall treasure and learn about the great Mildenhall to Melbourne air race. RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath are still operational as part of the United States Air Force.

As well as the three market towns, Forest Heath has 22 villages. Scattered around the outskirts of the towns, and linking the three main centres together, the villages are well worth visiting and many have local pubs and shops for you to visit.

Brandon, the gateway to the Brecks, has a long and fascinating history. Brandon Country Park boasts 30 acres of space to enjoy, including a delightful walled garden, forest walks, picnic area and visitor centre.

Mountain biking is very popular in this area and there are trails both in the country park and High Lodge Forest Centre just a short distance down the road.

As you pass through each you will experience the changing landscapes around you; fen, heath, chalk and downlands, from the flat, panoramic views over dark peat fields, to rolling countryside, and woodland areas covered in wildflowers you will discover magical, isolated places, known only to a lucky few.

St Mary’s Church and the Market Pump sit in the heart of Mildenhall. The church was

For more information visit the tourism pages at www.forest-heath.gov.uk

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HUNTINGDON Huntingdonshire is centred around the beautiful River Great Ouse and has fascinating historic market towns to explore.

The five towns of Huntingdon, Godmanchester (pictured above), Ramsey, St Ives and St Neots have long and wonderful histories.

Retrace the steps of more famous people.

Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of England, was born and educated in Huntingdon. His former grammar school is now a museum recording his life. He was also a tenant farmer in St Ives where his statue still stands.

Huntingdonshire also has a wealth of stunning villages tucked away down country lanes, with charming stone buildings and tranquil waterside settings.

Visit the wealth of other heritage attractions. There’s Elton Hall with its beautiful gardens and Gothic orangery, and the 18th century mansion of Island Hall in Godmanchester, with its serene riverside setting. The Manor in Hemingford Grey, on which the Green Knowe children’s books were based, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited houses in the country, and Houghton Mill, the last working water mill on the River Great Ouse, is also well worth a visit.

Kimbolton is one of the larger villages in the area, with its historic High Street and medieval castle which was the final home of Queen Katherine of Aragon, wife of King Henry VIII.

Huntingdonshire is also lucky to have a wide range of wildlife sites, from the large and rambling parks of Hinchingbrooke, Paxton Pits and Grafham Water to the meadows of Portholme, Houghton and Upwood.

Huntingdon, Godmanchester, St Ives and St Neots nestle on the banks of the River Great Ouse, while Ramsey is in a glorious setting on the edge of the fens, offering the visitor a warm welcome.

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01353 861677 info@swanontheriver.co.uk www.swanontheriver.co.uk Five rooms overlooking the river Great Ouse

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Sleep in your en-suite riverside room, wake to morning coffee on your own balcony, overlooking the river

Littleport sits on the Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridge borders, centrally placed for exploring East Anglia, in particular Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Kings Lynn and Bury St Edmunds - all accessible from the village rail station which is on the direct line from London Kings Cross.

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Beautiful hotel and spa in the cathedral city of Peterborough

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PETERBOROUGH

Offering an exciting mix of culture, countryside and city attractions, Peterborough is in its prime.

You can enjoy lazy afternoons among acres of rolling countryside and miles of waterways or full days out visiting Peterborough’s museums, stately homes and varied visitor attractions.

By night, the city really comes to life with theatre productions at the Key Theatre, greyhound racing, scores of bars and restaurants. After a successful shop, take time out to rest your feet at one of the many cafés. During the summer months, dine al fresco so you can soak up the atmosphere while relaxing with a drink and a bite to eat.

Peterborough Cathedral is situated in beautiful surroundings in the heart of the cosmopolitan city centre. As well as still operating as a thriving Christian Church, today the cathedral offers a wide array of activity including an interactive exhibition, fascinating historic and Cathedral tower tours, an exciting mix of arts and crafts based events, and a popular coffee shop.

Only a few minutes from the city centre is the glorious Nene Park. Stretching out for over six miles along the River Nene, this is the perfect spot for picnics, bird watching, walking, cycling, riding, sailing and golf.

Annual events include a Dragon Boat Race, Beer Festival and the famous Burghley Horse Trials. Don’t miss the arts and cultural festivities in Peterborough and the surrounding smaller towns and villages. There is the Peterborough Festival, the Green Festival and a host of arts, music and drama events throughout the year. During 2018 Peterborough will be celebrating the 900th anniversary of its iconic cathedral with over 100 events. Find out more at www.peterboroughcelebrates.org.uk

SOUTH CAMBS Set in 350 square miles of fantastic cycling and walking countryside, the district of South Cambridgeshire offers the perfect opportunity to relax and explore.

With its historic monuments, houses and museums set in the tranquil and rural landscape of rolling chalk hills covered with beech woods and flat fertile land, South Cambridgeshire provides a great location for everyone, from the lively and adventurous to those who want to unwind and get away from it all.

Eight miles south west of Cambridge, Wimpole Hall and Home Farm is Cambridgeshire’s largest stately home with 18th century gardens designed by the famous historical gardener Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. As well as its impressive grounds, Wimpole Hall is also home to a working farm where visitors can take part in a variety of activities such as grooming donkeys and ponies, collecting eggs and experiencing the wide range of pigs, sheep and cattle that live there.

The Imperial War Museum Duxford (www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford)

is Europe’s premier aviation museum, offering visitors an array of the finest historic aircraft in seven acres of exhibition space. The summer months see the skies come alive with dramatic air displays.

Take in a winery tour at Chilford Hall’s working vineyard, lying in 18 acres of rural countryside. East Anglia is one of England’s main wine-producing regions and the district boasts a number of vineyards, benefiting from long hours of sunshine and low rainfall.

Not far from Chilford Hall, the award-winning Linton Zoo offers children and adults alike a wealth of rare and exotic creatures, while Shepreth Wildlife Park, just 8.7 miles south of Cambridge, houses a famous collection of wild and domestic animals.

Travel north to Grantchester with its idyllic water meadows and The Orchard Tea Gardens, made famous by poet Rupert Brooke.

A warm welcome is awaiting at the many hotels and guesthouses which are ideal bases from which to enjoy all that the region has to offer.

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ST.IVES The historic riverside market town on the River Great Ouse is a wonderful place to visit. For over 900 years St Ives has been attracting visitors to its traditional fairs and markets.

The 600-year-old stone bridge with its chapel built in midstream is one of only three such buildings in the whole of the country.

The statue of Oliver Cromwell in the market place recalls the time when the future Lord Protector lived here before rising to power.

Nowadays a few stone walls are all that remain of St Ives Priory, built on the spot where the bones of the mysterious St Ivo were unearthed by a ploughman in the year 1001.

The parish church of All Saints stands in a tranquil churchyard on the riverbank. The church is 15th-century but its interior is a feast of colourful Victorian decoration by the famous architect Ninian Comper. The spire is even more recent than that, built to replace the original steeple destroyed by an aircraft in a tragic accident during World War I. St Ives has many elegant houses of the 18th century, when the town was rebuilt after a disastrous fire. From the 19th century come the remarkable New Bridges, the longest brick viaduct in the country when they were built in 1822. Close beside them is the seven-storey Old Mill, originally a corn mill but in the 1970s the place where Clive Sinclair invented the world’s first pocket calculator.

St Ives specialises in its hospitality and the streets are thronged with teashops and cafĂŠs, pubs, hotels and restaurants. All set in the lovely riverside scenery of the Great Ouse valley, where you can cruise the waterway in a narrowboat, explore the countryside on foot or by bike.

ST. NEOTS The attractive market town of St Neots is home to many listed buildings, and much of the town is a designated conservation area.

No visit to the town is complete without taking time to enjoy the river, and the Riverside Park and restaurant. The meandering River Great Ouse, with its huge weeping willows is a great draw for visitors.

The park offers several places to enjoy a picnic and there are pleasant walks across the parks’ many bridges.

St Neots still retains its character as a country market town and the Market Square is one of the largest and most ancient of its kind in the country, dating back to the 12th century.

A market has been held upon this square every Thursday since its foundation.

In the centre of the square is the Day Column, which was erected in 1822 by John Day, a local brewer. At one time during the 19th Century, it dispensed medicinal water piped from the local spa.

Visitors can explore the history of St Neots on foot, taking either a guided or a self-guided tour of the town. Alternatively, visit the town’s Museum. Housed in the former magistrates’ court/police station it tells the story of St Neots from prehistoric times to the present day.

There is a wealth of wildlife to enjoy all year round, and a network of marked paths.

During May there are large numbers of nightingales, and many species of orchid can be found in the meadows.

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Fenland is a beautiful landscape formed by nature and shaped by people over more than 6,000 years. It consists of four historic market towns and a wealth of stunning rural villages situated in the peaceful countryside with more than 200 miles of rivers and drains. The four main towns of Chatteris, March, Whittlesey and Wisbech all have charm and interesting histories to discover.

CHATTERIS Chatteris would have been a seaside town in Neolithic times, it perched on the edge of a vast tract of salt marshes, with the sea just to the east. Today, there is not a bucket and spade in sight - in fact this busy little town is 50 miles from the nearest beach.

The town we see today grew around the abbey of St Mary from around 1010. A market place formed in front of the abbey and streets evolved to connect to the other settlements in the Fens. Although there is little sign of the abbey remaining, Chatteris is still well connected and is an ideal base for touring the Fens and south Cambridgeshire.

MARCH March was once an island surrounded by marshes. As the land was drained and made more fertile the town grew and prospered. Today the town is a pretty market town, offering all the delights you would expect to find in a place such as this. The River Nene winds its way through

34

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THE FENS the town centre, past the park and pretty riverside gardens.

The river is often busy with colourful boats cruising the Fenland waterways. The town is a popular stopping-off point for boaters with free moorings in the town centre, close to shops and places to eat.

The town centre has the unusual Broad Street lined with shops and headed by an elaborate fountain which was erected to commemorate the coronation of King George V. There is a good variety of shops, from well-known high street names to small independent stores. A number of specialist markets are held throughout the year. including the Italian, French and Christmas markets.

WHITTLESEY Whittlesey sits on the very western edge of the Fens, close to the cathedral city of Peterborough. The town has an interesting maze of streets with a mix of architecture spanning several centuries.

The Buttercross in the Market Place is one of the most striking buildings and a reminder of Whittlesey’s rich trading and agricultural history. The market is in town every Friday.

Whittlesey has two churches, both close to the town centre. The Church of St Mary is famous for its glorious spire supported on elegant flying buttresses from the massive tower below.

WISBECH Wisbech the Capital of the Fens, is the perfect place for a day out or a break to get away from it all. There is plenty of accommodation choice, from historic town centre hotels to attractive B&B’s in rural settings and charming self catering cottages.

It’s renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture. Stroll along the Brinks or round the Crescent to see some fine Georgian houses. Then visit Peckover House on North Brink, now in the care of the National Trust and open to visitors from spring to autumn three or four afternoons a week.

A little further along North Brink is a completely different example of Georgian architecture. Wisbech has two museums; the Wisbech and Fenland in the Crescent and Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House on South Brink. Wisbech also has one of the oldest surviving Georgian Theatres in the country, The Angles.

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£505 ROUND CHURCH VISITOR CENTRE CAMBRIDGE Begins Here VISITOR CENTRE:

Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 1:30pm - 5pm Discover The Cambridge Story: Exhibition & Film

Daily guided walks of Cambridge University: Monday - Saturday at 2:15pm; Sunday at 2:30pm Advance group bookings also welcome

Find us on Bridge Street, opposite St John’s College www.roundchurchcambridge.org 01223 311602

WHAT’S ON? 13-15 Apr Cambridge Literary Festival

Various venues in Cambridge www.cambridgeliteraryfestival.com

4-7 May Ely Eel Festival

Ely City Centre, Jubilee Gardens & Palace Green www.elyeelfestival.co.uk

5-6 May QIPCO Guineas Festival

Newmarket Racecourse newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk

6-May Duxford Spring Car Show IWM Duxford, CB22 4QR www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford

18 May - 22 Sep The Cambridge Roar

Various venues in Cambridge www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk/home/events

21-26 May 45th Cambridge Beer Festival

Jesus Green, Cambridge www.cambridgebeerfestival.com

2-Jun Strawberry Fair!

Midsummer Common strawberry-fair.org.uk

3-Jun Cambridgeshire County Show

Wimpole Home Farm, SG8 0BW www.cambscountyshow.co.uk

9-10 Jun Cambridge Town & Country Fair Cambridge www.oakleighfairs.co.uk

9-Jun Peterborough Dragon Boat Racing

Peterborough Rowing Club, Thorpe Meadows dragonboatfestivals.co.uk

17-Jun Picnic in the Park Warners Park, St Ives stivesfest.org.uk

22-Jun Paloma Faith - Newmarket Nights

July Course, Newmarket newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk

23-24 Jun The Cambridgeshire Food & Drink Festival

Alwalton, Peterborough PE2 6XE www.cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

1-Jul Ely Aquafest

The riverside, Lavender Green, Jubilee Gardens and the Maltings Green www.elyaquafest.org.uk

13-15 Jul The Big Weekend

Parker’s Piece, Cambridge www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

13-15 Jul Ely Folk Festival Ely City Centre www.elyfolkfestival.co.uk

14-Jul Paxfest & Fun Dog Show

Little Paxton Village Hall, PE19 6EY www.little-paxton.cambs.info

21-Jul Ferry Meadows Celebrates Culture (part of Peterborough Celebrates) Ferry Meadows neneparktrust.org.uk

2-5 Aug Cambridge Folk Festival

Cherry Hinton Hall www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/folk-festival

24-25 Aug The Gin and Rum Festival Cathedral Church of St Peter, Peterborough

25-27 Aug Festival of Water River Ouse, Riverside Park, St Neots www.waterways.org.uk 19-21 Oct Octoberfest

The Embankment, Peterborough

28-20 Sept Cambridge Art Fair

Quy Mill Hotel, Cambridge www.cambridgeartfair.com

4-Nov Fireworks & Bonfire Night Midsummer Common www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

1-2 Dec ArtFest

St Ives Corn Exchange stivesfest.org.uk

East of England Showground, Oundle Road,

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USEFUL CONTACTS

Cambridge TIC The Guildhall, Peas Hill 01223 791500 visitcambridge.org

Huntingdon District Council 01480 388388 huntingdonshire. gov.uk

East Cambridgeshire District Council 01353 665555 eastcambs.gov.uk

Ely TIC Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s Street 01353 662062 visitely.org.uk

Peterborough City Council 01733 747474 peterborough.gov.uk

Forest Heath District Council 01638 719000 forest-heath.gov.uk

Fenland District Council 01354 654321 www.fenland.gov.uk

South Cambridgeshire District Council 0345 045 0500 scambs.gov.uk

Wisbech TIC 4 Post Office Lane 01945 464058 Peterborough TIC 9 Bridge Street 01733 452336

Cambridge Park & Ride 0345 045 5213 cambridgeparkan dride.info

USEFUL WEBSITES visitcambridge.org visitely.eastcambs. gov.uk visitpeterborough. com www.eastlife.co.uk www.cambridgelive trust.co.uk www.cam.ac.uk visitstneots.co.uk ourstives.com

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BRAINTREE The town of Braintree is famed for its Freeport Shopping Village, however there’s so much more to be discovered. Venture into the great outdoors and explore the town’s gentle rolling countryside, which has been home to some less than gentle crusaders, famous explorers, ground breaking scientists, the American air force and world-changing industrialists over the years.

Here you’ll find miles of stunning scenery, wonderful walks, cycling routes and golf.

Braintree Golf Club is currently ranked 9th place in the top 100 golf courses in Essex.

You’ll find fascinating exhibitions at the Braintree District Museum, which change regularly so there’s always something new to learn and discover. Interesting talks and workshops on local history and creative crafts take place throughout the year.

The hub of modern entertainment is of course, Braintree Freeport. The popular retail outlet features over 85 stores offering up to 60 per cent off designer brands – definitely a place to visit for the shopaholics among you. The area is also home to a cinema and a selection of restaurants.

Antiques are a local speciality and you’ll find offerings at Bocking Antiques Centre and Finchingfield Antiques Centre, and nearby Gosfield Shopping Village. If you are after something more unusual, the specialist shops of Braintree, Coggeshall, Halstead and Witham are all within easy reach.

CHELMSFORD Home to one of the UK’s biggest summer festivals, shopping centres and glorious parks, Chelmsford has established itself as one of the most popular places in Essex.

The city has grown immensely over the last few years with modern property developments and improvements to the town centre including the Bond Street Shopping Area, which makes a pleasant addition to the retail scene. It’s home to a number of high street stores, a cinema and John Lewis’ first Essex-based store.

Hylands House is a stunning Grade II listed property, spectacularly restored to its former glory and situated in 574 acres of historic landscaped parkland. With events and shows on all year round, it is the perfect day out for all the family. www.hylandsestate.co.uk

Chelmsford Museum is set in a lovely Victorian house in Oaklands Park. There are temporary exhibitions and family activities such as interactive displays and dressing up, along with special events and open days such as the Wildlife Fun Day. Check out www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Chelmsford is home to three theatres; The Civic Theatre, Cramphorn Theatre and Old Court Theatre. All offer a diverse range of performances throughout the year. Keep up-to-date with the latest productions at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres Chelmsford bars and restaurants offer something for everyone. You’ll find the usual chains scattered throughout as well as independent cafes, bistros and pubs, Riverside dining, arts, history and nightlife make Chelmsford a great place to visit.

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Classic Wings Ad 128mm w x 90.5mm h 2-17_Layout 1 28/02/2017 14:34 Page 1

FLIGHTS OF NOSTALGIA From March to October our fleet of Vintage Aircraft take off from IWM Duxford offering a truly memorable experience to all who fly with us at Classic Wings.

Choose from our range of nostalgic flights:

Sightseeing in our 1930s de Havilland Dragon Rapide over London or Cambridge An exciting Trial Flying Lesson in a genuine Tiger Moth or Cessna

NOT JUST A FLIGHT BUT A WHOLE DAY OUT!

Experience the thrill of high speed flight in the T-6 Harvard

All our vouchers include free entry to IWM Duxford which houses 85 acres of aviation history

Fly Wing to Wing with a genuine Second World War Spitfire Fly in a Spitfire – for the ultimate experience Flights available from £99 For more details of these flights, to book a flight or buy gift vouchers, contact us on 01223 837453.

Book online at www.classic-wings.co.uk

The Princes Theatre is the area’s largest professional theatre/venue, presenting a wide range of live entertainment throughout the year. Music to suit all genres. Gift Vouchers are now available and can be purchased either online or in our box office in denominations of £5, £10, £20, £50 or £100 and can be exchanged for any show at our theatre. For more information or to join our mailing list please visit our website www.princestheatre.co.uk.

FULLY LICENSED BAR This multipurpose venue is suitable to hire for: Performances, Award Ceremonies, Conferences, Seminars, Exhibitions, Functions, Wedding Ceremonies, Wedding Receptions, Birthday Parties, Workshops

Box Office: 01255 686633 - For further information: 01225 686652/686653

www.princestheatre.co.uk

/PrincesTheatre

@PrincesTheatre

CLACTON With one of the best climates in the UK, a summer visit to the Essex Sunshine Coast is a must. Clacton-on-Sea is the largest town on the Tendring Peninsula and was founded in 1871. It is a seaside resort that attracts many visitors. The seafront gardens are a carpet of glorious colour throughout the season and provide a backdrop for miles of golden sandy beaches and the town’s fun packed pier. The town and its beaches are popular with visitors in the summer, and there is a packed annual entertainment programme.

This summer the popular Clacton Air Show takes place 23-24 August. The award-winning seafronts and greensward are transformed over the two days into a fun filled events site and viewing area.

Impressive aerobatic displays take to the skies whilst a whole host of exhibitions, trade stands, food court and on-site entertainment are available at ground level.

Clacton is also home to the Princes Theatre, located at the Town Hall on Station Road.

Here you’ll find a fantastic programme of performances including drama, comedy and live music.

FRINTON This elegant seaside town was developed from a small village in late Victorian times into an exclusive resort. By the first half of the 20th century Frinton-on-Sea had great appeal for its high society visitors who came to enjoy the secluded sandy beach, golf course (frequented by the Prince of Wales) and tennis tournament, the classy Esplanade hotels, the lido and Connaught Avenue, ‘East Anglia’s Bond Street’, named after the Duke of Connaught and opened by his wife.

Developer R Powell Cooper bought out the original developer of the town in the 1890s and prohibited boarding houses and pubs.

Frinton’s first pub, The Lock and Barrell, opened in 2000. Relaxed and sophisticated, Frinton retains an atmosphere of the 1920/30s. Tree-lined avenues sweep down to the elegant Esplanade and cliff-top greensward, with its colourful Victorian-style beach huts. The sandy beach is quiet and secluded and one of the best on the Sunshine Coast.

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TER S E H C L O C E R T A E H T MERCURY

Tickets ! from ÂŁ12

for the whole fa Outstanding theatre

Balkerne Gate Colchester CO1 1PT

sex

mily in the heart of Es

Call 01206 573948

www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Premiere Partner

COLNE VALLEY The Colne Valley, an area of beauty in the heart of North Essex, has something for everyone; rolling countryside walks, villages rich in history and even great shopping experiences.

COLCHESTER Britain’s oldest town is home to some of the region’s most interesting heritage and history.

From Saxon to Medieval, Tudors to Stuarts and Georgian to Victorian, each era has shaped the town in some way. Today it’s not just Colchester’s vast heritage that attracts over 4.5 million visitors every year. The thriving and modern town is home to family favourites such as Colchester Zoo and Colchester Castle. Colchester tourist attractions make the town great for both a day trip or weekend break.

It’s a great location for a spot of shopping.

Colchester’s Charter Market dates back close to a millennium and continues to be a vibrant place to shop alongside Culver Street West, Long Wyre Street and Culver Street East, every Friday and Saturday. The town centre is also home to two large, indoor shopping centres, Culver Square and Lion Walk, that between them house many of the country’s most popular high street retailers from Debenham’s to H&M, alongside local businesses.

Art lovers should head to The Minories Art Gallery, Firstsite and the Mercury Theatre, all of which offer a vibrant calendar of exhibitions, events and performances throughout the year.

Earls Colne, named after the flowing River Colne, offers a 13th Century church and many 17th Century houses to admire, and the nearby Chalkney Wood is a popular destination for walkers. Using Earls Colne as your base, heading south will lead you to the beautiful village of Coggeshall, where you can find the family-run West Street Vineyard for a glorious vineyard walk and a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant, which serves brunch to dinner and even afternoon tea.

Back at the starting point of Earls Colne, if you head north towards Bures and Sudbury you are treated to the magnificent views that the Stour Valley has to offer. Once in Sudbury, Clare Castle Country Park provides much to learn about the 13th Century stone castle remains that overlook the town.

Just outside the nearby town of Halstead you’ll find Hedingham Castle, where you’ll discover one of the country's best preserved Norman keeps with medieval re-enactments loved by children and adults alike. Also near the castle within the village of Castle Hedingham is the Colne Valley Railway heritage railway, with its short running line and activities for families including demonstration train rides.

Nearby, the Layer Marney Tower, built around 1520, is the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in England. The house came to the Charrington family in the mid 20th century and has been occupied by the Charrington family ever since. The 80ft tower is well worth the climb for a spectacular view of the Essex countryside.

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CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET

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

01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

FASHION OU TLETS | LEISURE STORES | CA FES FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES | FREE PARKING

DISCOUNTED FASHION, FOOTWEAR, FURNITURE AND MUCH MORE!

LEIGH-ON-SEA Described as ‘Notting Hill with a seafront’ Leigh-on-Sea boasts an historic Old Town and buzzing Broadway. Cool bars and chic boutiques strive for your attention, along with traditional pubs and cockle sheds.

It’s hardly surprising that a town with such a close proximity to London (less than an hour by train), instantly strikes you as ‘comfortable’. Stock brokers, solicitors and successful entrepreneurs’ sports car and luxury saloons vie for parking spaces on and around Leigh’s natural epicentre, the Broadway. But like Notting Hill, which is home to a similar demographic, there’s a laid-back but well-heeled vibe that many of the locals will refer to as ‘buzzing’.

If you’ve not been, or not visited for a while, Leigh really does reward you for jumping into the car or onto a C2C train for a day out. Alternatively, indulge yourselves in a weekend with a difference. Among the City slickers you’ll find a wealth of artists and creative types, while down in the atmospheric Old Town, the original wealth creators of Leigh, the fishermen, still ply their trade. For lovers of fresh seafood, Leigh’s Old Town is fabulous.

The Old Town features a cobbled street which leads to Cockle Row, where you can buy all manner of bivalves drawn from the estuary waters. They don’t worry about food miles here because much of it has travelled no more than a handful of yards on its way from boat to plate. The friendly, traditional pubs of the Old Town are also popular with locals and tourists alike.

The Mayflower on the High Street is a multi CAMRA award-winning pub that will delight fans of real ale, while the Crooked Billet is another traditional waterside establishment with a big reputation.

A short walk or drive up the cliffs takes you into the heart of Leigh and onto the Broadway. Again, pubs and restaurants abound, with a wonderful supporting cast of cool bars and relaxed cafes. Leigh is chock-full of fabulous independent, quirky fashion boutiques, dedicated antiques stores, and homeware emporiums, elegantly placed alongside the big names and high-street classics.

Words & image courtesy of Visit Essex www.visitessex.com

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MALDON The ancient Essex town of Maldon has a rich and varied history waiting to be explored. It’s a pretty town on the Essex Blackwater estuary, and is the seat of the Maldon district, which includes the starting point of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation at Heybridge Basin.

Salt has been made on the East Coast of Essex for over 2,000 years. The remains of Roman salt works can be found dotted along the north and south banks of the Blackwater Estuary. However, there is much more to Maldon District than its salt. The River Blackwater and its surroundings has long been a tourist attraction. In Edwardian times visitors came for the ‘bracing air’ and healthy saltwater bathing. Now the activities on offer are sailing trips, wildlife watching and leisurely strolls along the sea wall.

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Maldon has a rich history and is packed with places to visit. If you are making a day trip to Maldon there are a number of Museums within walking distance. The Moot Hall opens for guided tours and visitors are taken onto the roof to view the rooftops of the town and the River Blackwater. A short walk down the High Street takes you to The Maldon Museum, which houses the Fat Man of Maldon’s waistcoat and a Penny Farthing, and there’s the award-winning Combined Military Services Museum, which displays the history of the armed forces in uniforms, weapons and other artefacts.

Generations of families have enjoyed the fun of the award-winning Promenade Park on the bank of the River Blackwater. Bring a picnic and enjoy the boating lake, splash park, adventure play and orienteering trail.

MERSEA ISLAND For epicures and bon viveurs crossing the Strood - the ancient Roman causeway that leads onto Mersea Island - is something akin to an act of pilgrimage. The tiny estuary island is home to vineyards, apple orchards and the finest seafood – where food miles are measured in yards.

If you want polish and bling, then Mersea might not quite be for you. Alternatively, if ramshackle and eccentric floats your fishing boat, then you’ll never want to leave.

The island is awash with character and old world charm, exemplified by The Company Shed. Long-hailed by restaurant critics as a culinary gem, this black-painted, weather-boarded institution sits just a handful of yards off the beach.

Palm trees may front parts of Mersea’s waterfront but regarding this as the Essex

Riviera might be stretching one’s imagination a little far. Those expecting miles of golden, sandy beaches might have a bit of a lip wobble. Don’t despair however, the wonderfully named Monkey Beach is a cracker and arguably the island’s best.

Children will love exploring the island’s myriad creeks and scampering over the boardwalks that interconnect the marshes, while parents will revel in the simple pleasures of watching little ones collecting sun-bleached oyster shells to decorate their sandcastles, crabbing and splashing about in the water.

With its broad expanses, unrivalled seafood, excellent local wines and beers and cute cottages, Mersea is a beguiling place.

Terrific for chucking the kids or your mates into the car and heading off for a day trip, Mersea also rewards those who linger!

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VISIT

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

The town also has a friendly, award winning museum.

Market days are Tuesday and Saturday.

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

www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk

Discover a world of hidden treasures at this family-friendly museum Rolling programme of special exhibitions, activities and events Ancient Egypt • Archaeology • Ceramics and Glass • Costume and Textiles • Furniture and Woodwork • Geology • Local and Social History • Natural History • World Cultures

SAFFRON WALDEN MUSEUM

Museum Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1JL (01799) 510333 museum@uttlesford.gov.uk

www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org Entrance Fees: Children (18 and under) FREE, Adults £2.50, Discounts £1.25, Season Tickets £8.00 and £4.00 Opening Hours: March – October: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm – 5pm) November – February: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4.30pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays 2pm – 4.30pm)

SAFFRON WALDEN Saffron Walden combines the best of both worlds. It’s where old meets new. You can often feel as though you’ve been transported to a time gone by while doing your grocery shopping. A wander around the cobbled streets, while popping into independent boutiques and admiring the historic architecture is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

The market takes place on Tuesday and Saturday and offers a delightful mix of local produce, furnishings and crafts. After a browse during the summer, buy some of the local produce and have a picnic on the Common.

It’s quite easy to spend a whole afternoon simply eating in Saffron Walden. Timber-clad buildings host modern pubs and restaurants, while there’s the opportunity for tea and cake on almost every corner.

Surrounded by beautiful Essex countryside, Saffron Walden has plenty of footpaths and country walks to offer. However, if you don’t fancy pulling on your wellies and trekking across the fields, pay a visit to Bridge End Garden. Hidden in the back streets of the

town, the grade II listed space consists of seven interlinked gardens and popular hedge maze. The Turf Labyrinth, another maze which twists and turns, is sure to be a hit with children.

Popular with both adults and children is the magnificent Audley End House & Gardens just outside Saffron Walden. Wander around the immaculately kept grounds, explore the Victorian service wing and visit the horses in the stable yard. There’s also a play area to keep the little ones entertained. The English Heritage site hosts a fantastic calendar of events throughout the year.

Make the most of the day with a visit to the Audley End Miniature Railway, located opposite. A massive hit with families, the railway trails through the forest where children can spot teddies that live in the woods. There’s also a Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk and picnic and play area – great for the when warmer weather arrives!

The town also features an independent community cinema, Saffron Screen, and one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the country.

A FAMILY FRIENDLY WORKING MUSEUM DEDICATED TO PRESERVING THE HISTORY OF RAILWAYS IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND 2018 8102

BY TRAIN Regular trains run from Sudbury, Bures or Marks Tey to the museum, and connections from London, Chelmsford, Colchester and Ipswich can be made at Marks Tey.

BY CAR Chappel Railway Station is about 8 miles from Colchester. The postcode for the museum is CO6 2DS. WHEELCHAIR ACCESS Access is available to all buildings however, you will however need a vehicle to gain full access to both sides of the museum.

EASTER DAY OUT WITH THOMASTM 30 March to 2 April Steam train rides on Thomas and friends, storytelling with the Fat Controller and children’s activities in the Imagination Station all day.

BANK HOLIDAY FUN DAYS 6 & 7 May Inflatable assault course, treasure hunt, steam train rides, petting zoo and real ale from our miniature pub, The Viaduct.

KIDS RUN THE RAILWAY 14 April | 21 July | 18 August Let off steam at our new kids’ activity days… Operate the signals, be a crossing keeper or guard and ride a diesel train (over 10’s only).

TRANSPORT EXTRAVAGANZA 27 & 28 May Classic cars, vintage motorbikes and modern head turners as well auto jumble and steam train rides on this great family day out.

FATHER’S DAY STEAM UP! - Dads go FREE 17 June Dads drive a diesel loco or take a family steam train ride.

We’ll fire up our BBQ or simply bring a picnic and relax in our lovely rural surroundings.

SUMMER STEAM GALA 8 July Join us as we celebrate our 50-year anniversary. All of our steam engines will be running - a full day of intensive steam engine action!

A STEAMY VINTAGE ENCOUNTER 29 July Steam train rides, vintage stalls and scrumptious teas, swing jive workshops and live music from the fabulous Fox, Wiggle & Sass.

DAY OUT WITH THOMASTM 25 to 27 August Thomas and his friends are back for more Summer fun! Meet the Fat Controller and enjoy re-enactments with Rusty and Dusty.

CHAPPEL SUMMER BEER FESTIVAL 4 to 8 September One of the largest beer festivals in the region, with live music, great food and over 400 varities of beer, run in association with CAMRA. Please be advised the museum areas will be closed for set up and during the festival.

STEAM DAY AND MODEL RAILWAY SHOW 7 October Together with our partners the Braintree & Halstead Model Railway Club, we are hosting this great day out for kids young and old!

HALLOWEEN HALF TERM FUN 22 to 25 October Pumpkin carving, apple bobbing and spooky crafts as well as gingerbread decorating in our vintage railway carriage café.

SPOOKY DAY OUT WITH THOMASTM 27 & 28 October Ride on real steam trains with Thomas and his friends. Meet the Fat Controller at his Spooky railway with lots of fang-tastic things to do.

FESTIVE DAY OUT WITH THOMASTM 9, 15, 16, 22 & 23 December Ride real steam trains with Thomas and his friends. Have festive fun with the Fat Controller and meet Santa in his grotto!

OPEN DAILY FROM 10:00 TO 16:30 Chappel Station, Colchester, Essex, CO6 2DS

01206 242524 | www.earm.co.uk

SOUTHEND Southend became a seaside resort during the Georgian era, attracting many tourists in the summer months to its seven miles of beaches and sea. To this day it attracts around over six million tourists every year.

You’ll find all the traditional seaside pleasures along the seven glorious miles of seafront; but you won’t find a Pleasure Pier like Southend’s anywhere else. Thrill-seekers rejoice with their vast range of water sports at the Marine Activities Centre. Ride the rollercoasters at Adventure Island or discover a world of watery wonder at the Sea-Life Adventure, which had a £680,000 redevelopment last year.

If you love to shop, the town centre features a variety of quirky independent boutiques and the usual ‘big name’ high street stores. With over three hundred mouth-watering places to eat plus a dazzling live music and nightlife scene, you really are spoilt for choice. All of this is just an hour’s train ride from London.

The seaside resort has a rich ‘feast’ of festivals and events all year round, which means there’s always something great to see and do.

WALTON-ON-THE-NAZE A traditional seaside town on the Essex Sunshine Coast, Walton-on-the-Naze’s golden sands have been attracting visitors for generations. It’s home to the second longest pier in England, and rows of colourful beach huts.

Throughout the town you’ll find classic tea rooms, fish and chip shops and stores selling bucket and spades.

The 86 foot octagonal Naze Tower, overlooking the coastline, is currently used as a gallery and hosts a number of exhibitions throughout the year.

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Discover a world of wildlife set in 18 acres of spectacular gardens Adult: £10.00 Child (2-13): £7.50 Under 2’s Free

KEEPER EXPERIENCES KEEPERS LITTLE HELPER for children age 5-8

Children’s play area, Free parking, Coffee/gift shop

S ANIMAL FEED KEEP ER AL ANIM S TALKS NTER U O C EN UR VIP LEM TOURS

KEEPER EXPERIENCE age 8-13 or age 14+ BIG CAT EXPERIENCE age 18+

Hadstock Road, Linton, Cambridgeshire, CB21 4NT Tel: 01223 891308 www.lintonzoo.com Find us just off the A1307 between Cambridge and Haverhill

INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR

(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter until the end of September

Adults - £7 Concessions £6 Children (over 5) - £3 Guided tours available for groups or school parties at other times by prior appointment.

MARKS HALL

Gardens & Arboretum A striking heritage landscape in Coggeshall, Essex with an enviable collection of mature trees and leafy paths. Enjoy home cooked food and browse the plant centre & gift shop.

Feel inspired. www.markshall.org.uk

t.01376 563796

The House and/or Gardens are also available for hire for public or private events such as weddings, concerts, exhibitions or corporate events

Tel. 01277 353010 Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk Website: www.ingatestonehall.com

WHAT’S ON? 30 Mar -2 Apr Easter Adventure Quest Audley End House www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on

26-28 Jun 3foot People Festival

Hylands Park, Chelmsford www.chelmsford.gov.uk

30 Mar - 15 Apr Easter Egg Trail Mountfitchet Castle, Stansted Mountfitchet www.mountfitchetcastle.com

30-Jun Fling Festival

12-13 May Essex Fine Food Show

13-15 Jul Brentwood Festival

15-May Saffron Walden Emporium Collectables, Crafts

15-Jul Heritage Live Concert Series: 2CELLOS

Chelmsford City Racecourse www.essexfinefoodshow.co.uk

Saffron Walden Town Hall

20-May A Vintage Affair

Hedingham Castle www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk

26 May, 28 Jul, 29 Sep & 24 Nov Curiosity Fair: Vintage & Craft Fair

Saffron Walden Friends meeting house, High Street, Saffron Walden

26-27 May Mersea Food & Drink Festival

Rewsalls Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, www.mersea-fdl-festival.com

7-9 Jun Chelmsford Film Festival 131 Bond Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1GH www.chelmsfordfilmfestival.com 9-JunBreast Cancer Care Pink Ribbon Walk Audley End House www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on

Hylands Park, Chelmsford www.flingfestival.com

Brentwood Centre brentwoodfestival.co.uk

Audley End House www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on

21-Jul Outdoor Cinema: Dirty Dancing Maldon Promenade Park www.essexoutdoorcinema.com

3-5 Aug Brightlingsea Free Music Festival

Various locations, Brightlingsea www.brightlingseafreefest.com

4-Aug Maldon Carnival Maldon High Street www.facebook.com/MaldonCarnival 2-Sep Kite Festival

Layer Marney Tower, CO5 9US layermarneytower.co.uk

16-Sep Apple Day at The Gardens of Easton Lodge

9-10 Jun Mind Body Spirit Festival

Little Easton, CM6 2BB www.eastonlodge.co.uk

16-Jun Young Children’s Festival

RHS Garden Hyde Hall www.essexoutdoorcinema.com

21-14 Jun Leigh Folk Festival

Weald Country Park www.essexshow.co.uk

Chelmsford City Racecourse www.lifearts.co.uk

Castle Park, Colchester www.colchester-events.co.uk

Various locations in Leigh leighfolkfestival.com

22 Jun - 15 Jul Thaxted Festival Thaxted Church www.thaxtedfestival.org.uk

29-Sep Outdoor Cinema: Pretty Woman

29-30 Sep The Essex Country Show

20-31 Oct Halloween Special at Audley End Miniature Railway

Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB www.Audley-End-Railway.co.uk

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Map courtesy of Visit Essex

USEFUL CONTACTS Clacton TIC Town Hall, Station Rd, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1SE 01255 686633 Colchester Visitor Information Centre Castle Park, Hollytrees Museum, CO1 1UG 01206 282920 www.visitcolchester. com

Maldon District Tourist Information Centre High St, CM9 5AD 01621 856503 www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre 1 Market St, CB10 1HR 01799 524002 www.visitsaffron walden.gov.uk

USEFUL WEBSITES www.visitessex.com

www.colnevalleyrail way.co.uk

www.freeport-brain tree.com

www.leigh-on-sea.com

www.visitchelmsford. co.uk www.chelmsford. gov. uk/museums www.chelmsford.gov. uk/theatres

www.visitmerseais land.co.uk www.visitsouthend. co.uk www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk

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

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

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

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS

HOUSE, PARK & GARDENS

STABLE YARD SHOPS & RIVER COTTAGE KITCHEN & DELI

HATFIELD PARK FARM

WWW.HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK | 01707 287010 | VISITORS@HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK

HATFIELD & WELWYN The two Hertfordshire towns have grown enormously over recent years, and offer everything you’d expect from a modern town. Standing side by side in the same borough, it’s easy to visit both in one day, here’s how to make the most of your trip:

HATFIELD

WELWYN

The town has largely grown up around the gates of its most famous attraction, Hatfield House. The Jacobean house is great to explore and is an ideal family day out with its gardens, play area and park farm. Stop by the Stable Yard Shops which features a wide range of exclusive retailers. The stores have been lovingly created from an area of Hatfield House which used to play home to the stables. Hatfield House hosts regular events so check what’s on before visiting. An Antiques Market is held on the third Saturday of every month and a Farmer’s Market is held on the third Sunday of each month.

Welwyn village is often referred to as ‘Old Welwyn’ to distinguish it from the newer settlement of Welwyn Garden City. One of the main attractions is The Hawthorne Theatre (www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk), which is also home to The New Maynard Gallery.

The theatre is a fully appointed, 370 seat live arts venue and hosts some of the finest professional theatre, live music, dance and comedy in the South Herts region.

There are also the Art and Design Gallery, The Weston Auditorium and music venue The Forum at the University of Hertfordshire.

In addition to the town centre, shopping can be enjoyed at The Galleria, an outlet shopping centre with 80 stores.

When the weather warms up head to Stanborough Park, a beautiful countryside park, covering an area of 126 acres, on the outskirts of Welwyn Garden City. Awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award, it is a great place for a family picnic, leisurely stroll or enjoy the rowing boats and pedalos on the lake.

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Experience Hitchin Culture, History, Entertainment, Shopping, Tradition, Cuisine, fun and community spirit.

Hitchin Information, 1A Churchyard, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1HR • Telephone: 01462 453335

OurHitchin

@OurHitchin

w w w. h i t c h i n h e r t s . c o m

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

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

30 MARCH - 28 OCTOBER 2018 WEDNESDAYS TO SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS 11AM-5PM www.henry-moore.org Registered Charity Number 271370

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

HERTFORD

&

WA R E

Imagine the scene; 18th century riverside gazebos, rustic listed buildings with a roman heritage; you have found yourself in Hertford and Ware, two picturesque towns nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire.

Hertford’s weekly market takes place every Saturday, while the farmers’ market is held on the second Saturday of every month. Visitors should stop by Hertford Castle, which hosts regular exhibitions and events.

Art lovers will adore Hertford’s choice of galleries.

Courtyard Arts is a small but lively community arts centre on Port Vale in Hertford. It offers term time art and clay classes for adults and children alongside a vibrant programme of changing exhibitions. It also has artists’ studios, a small cafe and a gift shop showcasing work by local artists.

In addition to the gallery at the Centre, Courtyard also curates the gallery at Hertford Theatre.

Ware is a busy high street with old world charm.

Some of the timber framed buildings that are still standing along Crib Street, have been restored since the 1970s, as part of an ongoing project to keep the town true to its history. You’ll find a number of independent boutiques and high street stores.

Ware’s main attraction is Ware Museum, which takes visitors back in time to the ghostly goings on in the town. Head to Hanbury Manor or Fanhams Hall for afternoon tea.

The towns are ideal places for a day trip, located off the A10, and close to the M11. There are beautiful spots by the River Lea, which passes through the towns to sit and eat a picnic and take in the peaceful scenery, so don’t forget your flask and picnic blanket for those sunny days.

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HITCHIN Steeped in history, Hitchin has established itself as a popular market town within North Hertfordshire. A trip to the town will provide an interesting and enjoyable experience.

Hitchin plays host to one of the most beautiful gardens in England. Nestled in Cadwell Farm are acres and acres of fragrant Hitchin Lavender. Lavender was introduced to Cadwell Farm in 2008, and has flourished to 17 miles of lavender rows for visitors to wander through.

In the 17th century barn, a variety of food, refreshments and lavender products are sold so visitors can bring home a piece of their experience. www.hitchinlavender.com

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The British Schools Museum is set in school buildings that developed in the site between 1837 and 1905. The classrooms are open to the public and the hands-on museum allows visitors to try dipping their pen in an inkwell and writing in a sand tray or slate, and play with early toys, games, and puzzles.

Hitchin is most famous for the Hitchin Markets.

This award-winning market is open every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.

In nearby Baldock, 1066 Gallery (www.gallery1066ďŹ neart.com) works with a portfolio of artists from around the globe - from local, emerging talent to international acclaimed artists, offering an eclectic portfolio of immense talent and varied subject matters.

ROYSTON Positioned on the North Hertfordshire border 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 holds a general market on Saturdays, between 8am and 2pm. One of the town’s main attractions is its fascinating cave, which lies beneath the bustling town centre. Visitors climb down to discover an amazing cavern,

intricately carved with religious and pagan symbols, which may or may not be linked to the Knights Templar. 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 weekends from 2pm – 4.30pm between 31 March and 30 September 2018 and Wednesdays during August only.

With its rich history, it’s no surprise that Royston is home to a range of traditional pubs and restaurants that offers a superb Sunday lunch and good hearty food.

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With two thousand years of history under its belt, lush green parks and a buzzing city centre, St Albans offers plenty to see and do. The Cathedral dominates the city’s skyline from every approach. Its architecture is a blend of many different periods, and its great tower includes Roman bricks salvaged from the ruins of Verulamium. Open daily, the Cathedral offers a number of free tours, plus events and concerts throughout the year.

Shopping is a favourite pastime in St Albans. The street market is one of the most popular markets in the region. Dating back to the 9th century, held twice a week and running the length of St Peters Street, you’ll find stalls offering fresh local produce, crafts and more. The city centre has established itself as busy cosmopolitan city of old and new, with two modern shopping centres and a wealth of independent stores.

Without a doubt the best way to explore the city is on foot. Stroll around the historic streets and marketplace on your own accord or follow the City Trail, which covers a distance of three miles. Alternatively, The City and District of St Albans Tour Guides host a programme of walks throughout the year. Walks include ‘A City Revealed’, ‘Ghosts and Ghouls’, ‘Victorian St Albans – a Time of Change’ and many more.

New this year is the St Albans Museum + Gallery, opening 1 June 2018. Set over three floors, the gallery spaces will showcase over 2,000 years of heritage and display contemporary artworks.

ST ALBANS

St Albans has a vibrant and varied entertainment scene. You’ll find a jampacked programme of shows and concerts ranging from drama and ballet to music and comedy at The Alban Arena, Abbey Theatre, Maltings Arts Theatre, Odyssey Cinema and Trestle Arts Base.

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A visit to Stevenage and its surrounding villages offers variety in every sense of the word. You can shop in ma jor High Street chains or independent retailers, see inns that Dick Turpin knew, view modern architecture or admire ancient churches and Tudor cottages.

Located in the Borough of Dacorum, and nearby the Chiltern Hills, Tring is great for exploring the delights of a small market town.

Walk down the Avenue that writer Forster described in Howards End or watch the latest films at a 16-screen Cineworld at the Leisure Park. You might just bump into local hero Lewis Hamilton, paying a visit to his childhood home!

Stevenage, the first of the country’s postwar new towns, has a wide range of facilities including the Gordon Craig Theatre, a swimming pool, indoor market and a thriving museum.

At the Walkern Gallery you can see the work of Stephen Lowe along with other local and professional artists.

Tring has a small charter market on Fridays and the popular farmers’ market takes place on alternate Saturdays offering local produce and crafts (www.tringfarmersmarket.co.uk).

The Natural History Museum at Tring is a ma jor attraction. It features many displays and exhibitions of animal life and provides an educational insight into nature. The ‘What’s in the Woods?’ exhibition runs until 24 June 2018, while you can wander among hundreds of butterflies and moths in the tropical butterfly house from 29 March – 16 September 2018. Visit www.nhm.ac.uk for museum opening times and more information.

Knebworth House, close to Stevenage, is well worth a visit. Not only a fabulous stately home, you can spend the whole day there, visiting the Dinosaur Trail and the children’s adventure playground.

Between the 24 March and 30 September 2018, you can enjoy exploring Knebworth’s history and heritage. Guided tours of Knebworth House are included in the House admission ticket. Lasting about an hour, the knowledgeable guides will tell visitors about the history of the House and the family who have lived here over the centuries. Also for a small extra charge, groups can add a private tour of the Gardens, which are filled with colour throughout the season. Look out for its calendar of events including the Hertfordshire Garden Show, Medieval jousting and DogFest. www.knebworthhouse.com

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Your Big Day Out

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WATFORD Watford supplies all the ingredients for a fabulous weekend so whether you want to indulge in some retail therapy, grab some tasty food, take a leisurely stroll or enjoy some great entertainment, you can be sure that Watford ticks all the right boxes.

Watford Palace, close to the high street, offers productions ranging from dance and theatre to 3D films, many of which have received critical acclaim.

How to keep the kids entertained is always an issue but in Watford it’s covered too because Watford is home to the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio Tour. There are few children, or adults for that matter, who have not been transfixed by the Harry Potter tales so an opportunity to visit full size sets, including the Great Hall, costumes, props, creature workshop and the Night bus is sure to delight. The walking tours last about three hours but tickets sell fast so be sure to book in advance.

If shopping is your thing then Watford is the place to be as intu Watford is home to a huge range of stores including John Lewis and fashionable high street brands.

Visit Cossiobury Park, a 190-acre haven of outstanding natural beauty. Stroll along the towpath beside the Grand Union Canal and River Gade, stopping for a picnic, spot of fishing or a trip on the miniature railway.

Unleash the offspring at the adventure play area or under 14s paddling pool and round your leisurely day off with a cup of tea and slice of homemade cake at the Cha Cha Cha tea Pavillion.

Watford’s town centre is bursting with pubs and restaurants offering a smorgasbord of culinary delights to suit all the family.

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Educational and fun group visits for Early Years and Key Stage 1

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For details visit willowsactivityfarm.com or call 0870 129 9718 © Frederick Warne & Co. Limited and Silvergate PPL Limited 2018. All rights reserved.

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Visit the world’s oldest mechanised paper mill

worKinG industrial heritaGe Frogmore is a visitor centre and working paper mill still using a 114 year old machine to make paper for specialist customers.

At Frogmore Mill you will find out about the fascinating history of paper, learn how to make a piece of paper by hand, see heritage papermaking and printing equipment, often in action. We also have a shop and a cafe serving light refreshments.

Open for drop-in visits every Thursday and on the first Sunday of every month from 11.00 to 16.00 and for pre-booked groups of 10+ any Monday to Friday (or for 30+, Sundays too). Call Maureen on 01442 234600 for group and package details.

t: 01442 234600

www.thepapertrail.org.uk Charity No 1079008

Fourdrinier Way Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY

WHAT’S ON? 1-2 Apr Easter Medieval Jousting Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

17-Jun Father’s Day Medieval Jousting Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

1-2 Apr French Market Hatfield House www.franceathome.com

24-Jun Alban Street Festival St Peter’s Street, St Albans www.enjoystalbans.com

6 Apr - 6 May Hertford Arts Festival Various venues, Hertford www.hertford.gov.uk/events/hertford-arts-festi val-414/

28-Jun Garden Theatre - The Tempest Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

21 Apr, 19 May, 16 Jun, 21 Jul, 18 Aug , 15 Sep, 20 Oct & 17 Nov Stable Yard Antiques & Collectors Fair Hatfield House www.hatfield-house.co.uk/event 10-13 May Living Crafts Hatfield House www.livingcrafts.co.uk 5-7 May Hertfordshire Garden Show Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

30 Jun - 1 Jul Geronimo Festival Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 7-8 Jul DogFest Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 14-Jul Battle Proms Hatfield House www.battleproms.co.uk 15-Jul Folk by the Oak Hatfield House www.folkbytheoak.com

26-27 May Hertfordshire County Show The Showground, Dunstable Road, Redbourn www.hertsshow.com

21-22 Jul The Great British Food Festival Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

26-27 May Homes & Antiques Fair Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

5-Aug Rock at the Castle Hertford Castle, Hertford www.hertford.gov.uk/events

2-3 Jun St Albans Steam and Country Show Oaklands College (Smallford Campus), Hatfield Road, St Albans www.hertssteam.co.uk

11-12 Aug Knebworth Country, Crafts & Steam Fair Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

3-Jun Cars at the Castle Hertford Castle, Hertford www.hertford.gov.uk/events 9-Jun Harpenden Carnival Harpenden Common www.harpendencarnival.com 10-Jun Theatre in the Park: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Hatfield House www.chapterhouse.org

17-19 Aug Art in Clay Hatfield Park www.artinclay.co.uk 31 Aug - 2 Sep Cool Britannia Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events 9-11 Nov Knebworth Winter Festival Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com/events

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Discover Lee Valley Regional Park

Enjoy 26 miles of award winning open spaces, wonderful nature reserves and riverside trails, stunning world class sports venues and beautiful walking, running and cycling routes Find out more at visitleevalley.org.uk

Your Local Theatre Cinema, Shows, Theatre Bar & Cafe, Conference & Training Facilities Call the Box Office now for further information or to receive our FREE entertainment brochure

Come Lee Valley Boat Centre Comealong along and and visit visit Lee Broxbourne the heart of Lee Valley Region Valley Boat in Centre at and experience a boat Broxbourne in the hearttrip of along the tranquil p on theValley RiverRegional Lee. Whether Lee Park you prefer to spen day just an hour on the andorexperience a boat trip river or enjoy a me cruising along, all parkland tastes are catered for. along the tranquil Situated midway betweenyou Enfield and Hertford just off the A10 on the River Lee. Whether prefer to spend A1170 will on findthe free parking opposite the Boat Centre the daywhere or just you an hour river or enjoy a For information websites: mealfurther while cruising along, please all tastesvisit are our catered for.

ComeCome alongalong and visit Lee Valley Boat Boat Centre at at www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & www.riverleecruises.co.uk and visit LeeHertford Valley Centre Situated midway between Enfield Broxbourne in theinheart ofand Lee Valley Regional ParkPark Call us on 01992 462085 or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.

Broxbourne the heart of Lee Valley Regional just off the A10 on A1170 where you will find and experience a boat trip along the tranquil parkland and experience a boat trip along the tranquil parklan free parking opposite the Boat Centre. on theonRiver Lee. Lee. Whether you prefer to spend the the the River Whether you prefer to spend For further please visit our day orinformation justoran hour the or enjoy a meal whilewhile day just an on hour onriver thewebsites: river or enjoy a meal cruising along,along, all tastes are catered for. for. cruising all tastes are catered www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & off Situated midway between Enfield and Hertford just on on Situated midway between Enfield and Hertford justthe offA10 the A10 A1170A1170 wherewhere you will opposite the Boat Centre. www.riverleecruises.co.uk youfind willfree findparking free parking opposite the Boat Centre.

For further information visit our For further information please visitwebsites: our websites: Callplease us on 01992 462085 or www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & www.riverleecruises.co.uk www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & www.riverleecruises.co.uk email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com Call usCall on us 01992 462085 or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com on 01992 462085 or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com

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USEFUL CONTACTS Hertford Tourist Information Centre 10-12 The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PX Tel: 01992 584322 www.hertford.gov.uk

Royston Tourist Information Centre Royston Library, Market Hill, Royston SG8 9JN Tel: 01763 878242

Hitchin Visitor Information Centre 27 Churchyard, Hitchin Tel: 01462 453335 www.hitchinherts.com

Stevenage Tourist Information Centre Stevenage Central Library, Southgate, SG1 1HD Tel: 01438 737333

St Albans Visitor Information St Albans Cathedral: Sumpter Yard, AL1 1BY Verulamium Museum: St Michael’s Street, St, AL3 4SW Tel: 01727 864511

USEFUL WEBSITES: www.enjoystalbans.com www.hatfield-house.co.uk www.watfordforyou.org www.sll.co.uk

Watford Tourist Information Point One Stop Shop, Town Hall, Watford Tel: 01923 226400

www.visitherts.co.uk

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

ATTLEBOROUGH

Tucked away between Wymondham and Thetford, the market town of Attleborough is well worth a detour off the A11.

Attleborough was a staging town for weary travellers between London and Norwich, and is full of history, from its town sign to the Norman St. Mary’s Church. The church is renowned for its decorative rood screen, which stretches across the width of the church - making it East Anglia’s longest.

The Griffin Hotel (built in the mid 17th century) in the town was also used to house prisoners on their way to trial in Thetford at the Assizes. You can even still see the rings in the cellar walls to which they were tied!

Attleborough is also a great base for exploring The Brecks or Thetford Forest. Nearby you can visit the world famous Peter Beales’ Classic Roses, all set in a stunning 2.5 acres of rose gardens.

Close by you’ll also find Snetterton Circuit (www.snetterton.co.uk), with its programme of exciting racing, the amazing Banham Zoo (www.banhamzoo.co.uk) and Old Buckenham Airfield (www.oldbuck.com), with its regular fly-in events. This year the Old Buckenham Airshow will take place 28 & 29 July.

Attleborough’s market is held on Thursday, 8am to 2pm, and the town has a number of specialist and family-owned independent shops. The town sign shows cider making in action (Gaymers were based in Attleborough from 1896 until 1995), as well as two black turkeys both denoting key industries associated with Attleborough over the years.

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AYLSHAM Set in the heart of beautiful rolling countryside, Aylsham is a charming market town that is truly special. The town has rich historical roots, with its fascinating parish church and Georgian market place that still acts as a central hub for local people today, particularly on market days.

Every Monday and Friday, the Georgian market place is home to the market where you will find all sorts on sale from plants to household goods, and a fortnightly Farmers’ Market selling local produce.

Nearby, visit the historic 18th century house and parkland at Wolterton Hall and Mannington Gardens’ country walks and beautiful gardens. There’s a packed programme of events throughout the year.

For a memorable journey the whole family will adore, hop on board the Bure Valley Railway (www.bvrw.co.uk) to experience the magic of steam. Starting from Aylsham, the train takes an 18 mile round trip through the picturesque Bure Valley stopping off at some of Norfolk’s quaint villages before arriving at Wroxham, the capital of The

Norfolk Broads.

Families can also enjoy a trip aboard The Broadland Boat Train. Starting from the historic market town of Aylsham, follow the beautiful Bure Valley, before arriving at the Broads town of Wroxham. Then take to the water and discover the beautiful Norfolk Broads with a leisurely hour and a half cruise with guided commentary.

The Broadland Boat Train operates on a daily basis from the beginning of April to the end of October. Pre-booking is advisable. A family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) is available at a cost of £62 and under 5’s travel free.

Finally, Redwings Horse Sanctuary (www.redwings.org.uk) cares for over 2,000 horses, ponies, donkeys and mules. Redwings visitor centre in Aylsham is a beautiful site in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside. There is also a café, gift shop and children’s play area as well as walking tours and horse care demos. Entry is free.

BLI CK L I N G H ALL There’s nothing more enchanting than a woodland walk and during the spring Norfolk’s forests are alive with colour.

The Bluebell Woods at Blickling Estate (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate)are no exception. Visit during the spring, ideally between April and May to benefit from a stunning display of bluebells. If you want to make a day of it, you can also pop over to

76

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the house and explore the gardens.

The parkland is also the hosting ground for the annual Aylsham Show, a traditional one-day agricultural show with cookery demonstrations, food, farming, trade stands and much more. This year the show will take place Monday 27 August. Book tickets at www.theaylshamshow.co.uk

BL A K ENEY The village and small port of Blakeney is situated at the mouth of the River Glaven on the North Norfolk coast between Wells-nextthe-Sea and Sheringham.

Blakeney is an attractive destination with narrow lanes of flint cottages, traditional pubs serving locally sourced real ale, a fine church and medieval Guildhall and, with the opportunities for crabbing, fishing, canoeing, birdwatching, yachting and sailing pleasure craft, it is a popular spot for tourists.

Blakeney is also the perfect location from which to explore the great outdoors; the North Norfolk Coastal Path passes through the village, and it lies within the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North Norfolk Heritage Coast.

Blakeney also has the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales, including the National Trust owned Blakeney Point, a 3.5 mile long sand and shingle spit, which is home to colonies of common and grey seals.

At high tide you can take a boat trip from Morston Quay and get up close to the seals as they bask on the sand. Blakeney Point also offers a wilderness walk along dunes where rare terns make their nests in the safety of the reserve.

Blakeney Point Nature Reserve 01263 740241 Norfolk etc RYA sailing courses 01263 740704 Temples Seal Trips 01263 740791 Beans Boat Trips 01263 740505 Bishop’s Boats 01263 740753 The Blakeney Cottage Company 01263 741777

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BRANCASTER The neighbouring villages of Brancaster, Brancaster Staithe and Burnham Deepdale on the North Norfolk coast line up along the edge of Brancaster Bay and the offshore barrier island, Scolt Head.

Much of the beautiful coastline at Brancaster is sandy beaches, stretches of Marram grass, saltmarsh and sand dunes and is owned by the National Trust. For great coastal views and wildlife follow the Norfolk Coast Path. There’s also the 16km Brancaster Circular Walk, which is split into two equal circuits, one west and the other east of Brancaster.

The pretty fishing village of Brancaster Staithe, with sailing boats and seafood for sale, is a hotspot for those wishing to learn to sail, windsurf or parasurf.

BRANCASTER STAITHE Brancaster Staithe Harbour, beach and Scolt Head Island National Nature Reserve is particularly popular with birdwatchers; the extensive areas of saltmarsh, intertidal mud and sandflats attract internationally important numbers of breeding terns and wintering wildfowl, and waders such as shelduck, wigeon, teal and curlew.

During the holidays the National Trust Brancaster Activity Centre at Brancaster Staithe runs courses for families and children, in everything from weaving and watercolours to baking and birdwatching. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/brancaster-activity-centre

THE BURNHAMS The Burnhams is the name given to the villages grouped around the River Burn on the North Norfolk Coast.

There is Burnham Market, the main village, Burnham Overy Staithe on the coast, Burnham Thorpe, where Nelson grew up, with his father Rector of the local church and the villages of Burnham Overy, Burnham Deepdale and Burnham Norton.

The pretty village of Burnham Market is full of delightful houses, cottages and quirky shops all situated around a village green.

Burnham Market is known as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’ for its popularity with visitors from London.

With shops and galleries selling high-class antiques, paintings, food, fish and fashion it is the perfect destination for shopping, eating out or simply just chilling and people watching.

The village is within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and near the nature reserves at Titchwell, Holme, Holkham and Cley, as well as the historical visitor attractions Holkham Hall, Houghton Hall and the Royal Estate of Sandringham.

Holkham Hall 01328 710227 Houghton Hall 01485 528569 Sandringham Estate 01485 545400 The Crab Hut Open April to October 01485 525369 Brancaster Brewery Tap at The Jolly Sailors 01485 210314 National Trust Brancaster Activity Centre 01328 738008 The White Horse 01485 210262

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REEDHAM FERRY COMPLEX Reedham Ferry & The Archers Touring Park

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THE BROADS The Broads is Britain’s magical waterland, a beautiful environment shaped by people working hand-in-hand with nature over thousands of years. The Broads offers visitors an experience unlike any other, both on its rivers and lakes – the Broads – and alongside them, on peaceful paths and cycleways and in the unspoiled villages and market towns that make up the tapestry of this fantastic area.

Broads, with the bustling village of Wroxham (home to the fantastical BeWILDerwood, an award-winning adventure park), the starting point for many Broads holidays and river trips, is formed around the rivers Bure, Thurne and Ant. At How Hill Nature Reserve you will find Toad Hole Cottage, a tiny, former eel-catcher’s cottage, where the silent Electric Eel will take you on a wildlife water trail through the reeds and marshes.

The Broads offers a rich mix of attractions and activities year round for visitors of any age and any interest. It is proud to be a member of Britain’s family of National Parks, and is recognised globally for its wildlife and the distinct and precious character of its environment.

Climb the winding, spiral stone staircase of Ranworth church for magnificent views of the Broads and discover the floating conservation centre moored on Ranworth Broad - great for birdwatching.

Best of all, the Broads is so easy to get to for a holiday, short break or day visit, and it’s all within easy reach of the historic city of Norwich and the exhilarating coastline of Norfolk and Suffolk. A magical place where land and water, people and nature meet!

This protected wetland has over 125 miles of safe waterways, carefully managed over centuries. The northern section of the

The historic ferry at Reedham offers one of the only river crossing in the southern Broads and you can take in the delightful scenery and wildlife on board Liana, an Edwardianstyle electric launch, from Beccles.

Wroxham is a popular starting point on the North of the Broads. Here you’ll find plenty of boat hire, riverside restaurants and B&Bs. Combined with the River Bure and Salhouse Broad, its considered to be one of the prettiest stretches of river in the area.

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The its Galley is avariety must forof any visitor toand Horning. some tasty treats, and browse around the well stocked gift OPENING TIMES: Monday Sunday 10.00-17.00 The intimate is attached to an-extensively stocked shop with its largecafe variety of unusual unique gifts.- 17.00 OPENING TIMES: Mondayand - Sunday 10.00-17.00 09.00

ON THE MENU

Stoneware Pottery – Ideal Gifts jam with clotted cream “Throwing” Tuition – Gift Vouchers

✦ Homemade toasted coconut granola with Greek yoghurt and seasonal fruits

✦ Charcuterie board with a selection of cured salamis and meats, artisan bread, salad and homemade chutney

Church Road Sutton, Norwich NR12 9SG | www.suttonpottery.com

delicatessen, filled with many homemade delicacies, including 01692 580595 OPENING TIMES: Monday - Sunday 10.00-17.00 our famous Hornish pasties, scotch eggs and a variety of ✦ Homemade scones and wonderful cakes.OPENING The cafe menuTIMES: includes breakfast, lunch and Monday - Sunday 10.00-17.00 jam with clotted cream afternoon tea options, with most dishes available all day. Fully licensed, choose your wine or local beer or cider to accompany your meal. We are “yes” people, and will make most menu adaptations to suit special dietary requirements, including those needing gluten free options. Make time to eat, take away some tasty treats, and browse around the well stocked gift shop with its large variety of unusual and unique gifts.

CLEY NEXT THE SEA The picturesque village of Cley next the Sea lies just east of Blakeney, on the River Glaven, in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North Norfolk Heritage Coast.

Visitors will find brick and flint houses, narrow lanes and sea paths, art and craft galleries including ‘Made In Cley’ selling pottery, prints, jewellery and sculptures, specialist food shops such as Cley Smokehouse, pubs, a teashop and a magnificent church, as well as Cley’s famous saltmarshes, one of Britain’s premier birdwatching sites.

Due to land reclamation the village is no longer ‘next the sea’. The River Glaven, once

navigable by large ships, began to silt up in the early 17th century. The area that is now the village green was, during the Middle Ages, a thriving trading port exporting and importing cloth, grain, malt, spices and coal.

Cley is also known for its landmark, Cley Windmill, a fine 18th century mill that now serves as a highly rated holiday home.

Beyond the windmill there are the paths and creeks of Cley Marshes to explore.

Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Cley Nature Reserve, on the edge of the marshes and overlooked by a glassed visitor centre, has an international reputation and is popular with birdwatchers who come to see migrant and wading birds.

NWT Cley Marshes Nature Reserve 01263 740008 Made In Cley 01263 740134 Cley Smokehouse 01263 740282 Cley Windmill 01263 740209

American Animal UnderAdventure 4’s go FREE

Braziliant value: Admission still at 2014 prices!!

Amazona Zoo Rainforest Springs logo

South American Animal Adventure

Explore the Amazona in Cromer

amazonazoo.co.uk stay with us at cromercamping.com check website for opening times

South American Animal Adventure

CROMER Cromer is a Victorian gem, with a seafront townscape that rises steeply from the Promenade and is crowned by the finials of one of Norfolk’s tallest and most imposing church towers.

North Norfolk’s best-known landmark, Cromer Pier, recalls a golden age of British seaside holidaymaking. The Pavilion Theatre hosts one of the country’s last end-of-the-pier summer variety shows, along with concerts for all the family throughout the year.

Cafes, gift shops and amusements sit above the beach, while the RNLI Henry Blogg Museum gives insights into the bravery of those men who risk their lives to save others at sea. The Cromer Museum, adjacent to the church at the heart of the town, is also a trove for those interested in local history.

America to the North Norfolk coast, while The National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall, just two miles from Cromer, has a lush walled garden and acres of parkland and woodland to explore.

Cromer crabs are still as famous as ever with fishing boats, launched from the beach in season, tending to hundreds of crab pots.

Cromer Pier & Pavilion Theatre 01263 512495 Henry Blogg Museum 01263 511294 Cromer Museum 01263 513543 Felbrigg Hall 01263 837444 Amazona Zoo 01263 510741

Amazona Zoo opened on the edge of Cromer in 2008, bringing the colour of tropical South

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Made in England at our factory in Wattisfield.

Paint your own pottery

Enjoy a warm coffee shop welcome it’s part of our shopping experience Monday - Thursday 9:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 9.30am - 4.00pm Saturday: 9.30am - 4:30pm Sundays: Closed Find us on the A143 between Bury St Edmunds and Diss.

Wattisfield, Suffolk, IP22 1NH

01359 251239 www.henrywatson.com

DEREHAM Dereham is at the centre of Norfolk so is an ideal touring base. It has a good shopping centre and several attractions.

Bishop Bonner’s Cottage Museum is a beautiful thatched building dating from around 1500 - the oldest surviving domestic building in Dereham. Built as three cottages, it is easy to imagine how people lived here in the past.

As the town’s museum it is well worth a visit. www.derehamhistory.com.

Dereham Windmill is a Grade 2 Listed windmill built in 1835. No longer a working mill, it is now a popular Exhibition Centre with a coffee shop serving drinks and delicious home made cakes. www.derehamwindmill.co.uk.

The route to the Windmill takes visitors past the Mid-Norfolk Railway at Dereham station.

This heritage railway runs services along the 11 miles between Dereham and Wymondham and is restoring the line to the north. mnr.org.uk.

Dereham is an accredited Walkers are Welcome town. Walkers are welcome to explore routes such as the Wensum Way link to the Norfolk Trails network, but can also get a free pack of 14 walk guides from the Library. The walks can also be downloaded from www.DerehamWaW.org.uk.

Just outside the town, easily reached by bus or car, is Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse offering a museum, a working farm, exhibitions and gardens.

Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse 01362 869263 Bressingham Steam & Gardens 01379 686900 | www.bressingham.co.uk Diss Corn Hall 01379 652241

Dereham windmill

DISS Diss is a successful, picturesque market town with parkland, play areas, live entertainment facilities and a great market. Fine examples of period architecture can be enjoyed including timber-framed buildings and Georgian and Edwardian facades.

Diss Corn Hall, which has recently undergone refurbishment, is a hub for entertainment.

It hosts a number of theatre, dance, music, comedy and art exhibitions throughout the year. At the heart of the town is Diss Mere, popular with tourists and residents, the lake and parkland are great for a gentle stroll, for simply sitting back and watching the world go by. There is a play area, opportunities to feed the ducks and a café is open during the summer months.

Nearby Bressingham is a must to visit with its amazing Steam Museum, with over five miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four journeys to choose from, 20 acres of gardens - renowned worldwide for their horticultural excellence and its Dad’s Army exhibition.

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FAKENHAM Fakenham is a market town situated on the River Wensum.

The town’s most famous attraction is of course Fakenham Racecourse. The course has a history dating back to the early 1900s and unlike most courses it has no formal dress code and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an exciting day out for people of all ages.

Fakenham gasworks is the only surviving type of its kind in England and Wales. It ceased production in 1965 and reopened in 1987 as the Fakenham Museum of Gas and Local History. It retains original equipment as well as a section of the museum dedicated to local history and is worth a visit. The museum is open Thursday mornings from 1 June to 1 October.

The town’s busy Thursday market starts early in the morning until mid-afternoon with a range of great bargains to be had from local traders. Fakenham also boasts a popular Farmers’ Market, which takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month.

Pensthorpe Nature Park has nature trails, a play area for children and a lovely Courtyard Café.

Pensthorpe 01328 851465 Fakenham Racecourse 01328 862388 Fakenham Musuem of Gas 07470 341402

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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from

10.00am

The place to visit Group bookings call: 01493 369477 or email: mail@thrigbyhall.co.uk

THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

N R29 3DR 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

%

GT YA RMOUT H Great Yarmouth is a fun destination for a holiday for all the family, and really has got something for everyone. One of the UK’s best-loved seaside towns, Great Yarmouth has been attracting the crowds for decades.

Its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches stretch out into the horizon along an ever-changing coastline, from seaside amusements to rugged cliffs, from the serenity of Scroby Sands windfarm and seal colony, to the fast paced action of Marine Parade.

For candyfloss, ice-cream cones, seafront illuminations, amusements arcades, theme parks, donkey rides, entertainment, nights out on the town, razzmatazz and beautiful sandy beaches, Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile has it all. Play all day and party all night in the upbeat seaside quarter.

At the top of Regent Road, where retail therapy begins, shops, department stores and boutiques surround the market place, officially the town centre. For a more tranquil pace, head for the heritage quarter and South Quay, where museums and former merchant’s houses face onto the busy port area. With museums and the second most complete medieval wall in England, you can have your fill of history, then head to the seafront to whoop down a rollercoaster.

Get up close and personal with sharks at the Sea Life Centre or explore the remains of shipwrecks at The Potteries. Visit the seafront Marina Centre for a dip in the tropical pool or go ten pin bowling on Wellington Pier overlooking the waves.

The Hippodrome Circus hosts top entertainment all year, but is best known for its Summer Spectacular Circus & Water Show, which features daredevil stunts and breath taking performances.

It’s not all just fish and chips, Great Yarmouth has something to suit every taste bud and every pocket. The Terrace at The Imperial Hotel offers dining with a sea view, while The Courtyard on Howard Street is an intimate place to dine. Tucked away in one of Great Yarmouth’s historic row houses, this delightful Italian restaurant will set your taste buds in motion.

Sea Life Centre 01493 330631 The Pleasure Beach 01493 844585 Hippodrome Circus 01493 844172 The Potteries 01493 858862

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GORLESTON South of Great Yarmouth, Gorleston-on-Sea has its own bay and riverside, with a stunning sandy beach stretching into the distance below glorious cliff gardens and a grand promenade.

Summer Sundays in Gorleston are a chilled-out affair, with bands playing in the bandstand surrounded by deckchairs, as visitors and passers-by watch the Sunday yacht race. Performances take place from 2-4pm from June to August.

Gorleston has a large paddling pool and yacht pond, green cliffs, beautiful lawns, bowling greens, tennis courts and a trim-trail on the cliff top where views of the beach, harbour, pier and wind turbines can be seen.

Behind the promenade, beachside cafes and shops offer a wide selection of goods from multi-coloured buckets and spades to trendy sunshades and beach wear.

The town’s Pavilion Theatre has seaside shows throughout the summer season and is a popular dining and dancing venue. Don’t miss its Showtime Summer Spectacular variety show which runs from May to September.

Other attractions and amusements include a bingo hall, pitch and putt golf course, amusement parks, restaurants, pubs and cafés.

Pavilion Theatre 01493 662832

H OLT H A R L E S TON Harleston is a treasured market town nestling in the Waveney Valley, which has a wealth of fine Georgian houses and individual shops.

The annual Harleston & Waveney Art Trail shows works from a diverse and lively community of professional artists who live and work in the beautiful Waveney Valley.

This year the event will be held 19-20 and 26-28 May. The attractive Italianate clock tower overlooking the market place has been restored and there are many interesting architectural works and speciality shops, plus a nationally acclaimed butcher. Wednesday is market day in Harleston.

The Waveney Valley is perfect for discovering on foot or bicycle with its numerous way-marked routes and quiet country lanes including much of the ‘Angles Way’.

The pretty market town of Holt is a Georgian gem of washed stone High Street and flint lined yards harbouring a range of quality galleries, tea rooms, pubs, antique shops and specialist food stores.

Holt is one of the country’s best-preserved Georgian market towns. Destroyed by fire three centuries ago, the town was rebuilt all at once and reborn in the smart style that makes it so popular with visitors seeking the perfect blend of the homely and the refined.

In winter, the town’s continental style of on-street cafes and dazzling colour cascading from hanging baskets gives way to a fairy wonderland of Christmas lights. In all seasons, Holt is an ideal base to explore the North Norfolk hinterland, whether to the coast (only three miles away) or the countryside.

Holt Country Park, just south of the town, is a 100 acre woodland that hosts family events throughout the year as well as offering way-marked walks for all abilities, and boasts a prestigious Green Flag award.

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S3295 LSA East of England Tourist Guide.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2018 20:54 Page 1

Character hotel with stunning sea views on the North Norfolk coast

Accommodation with sea views

Traditional on-site pub

Afternoon Teas, Light Lunches

Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6JJ

Tel: 01485 534411 Email: reception@lestrangearms.co.uk www.lestrangearms.co.uk

HOUGHTON Hall & GardeNs

GR SPE OU CI P R AL AT ES

Exquisite Palladian Mansion • Award-winning Walled Garden Contemporary Sculptures • Richard Long Exhibition Model Soldier Museum • Gift Shop & Licensed Café

BOOK ONLINE AT HOUGHTONHALL.COM

HU NSTANTO N

Hunstanton, or ‘Sunny Hunny’ as it is affectionately known, is the ideal location for a seaside holiday with all the trimmings. Famous for its striped cliffs, acres of sand and clear, shallow water, Hunstanton also offers lots of fun attractions for all ages. The town was purpose built as a seaside resort in 1846 by local landowner Henry Styleman le Strange and gained popularity as early as the 1860s.

Today, Hunstanton retains its Victorian character and remains a popular holiday location for all ages but particularly families. The town possibly takes its name from the River Hunn, which begins in the grounds of Old Hunstanton Park and Old Moated Hall. During nice weather explore the resort in the morning then spend a lazy afternoon lying amongst the dunes.

Hunstanton’s popular land train runs regularly through the summer months carrying visitors from Searles Leisure Resort to the lighthouse and back again. On weekends throughout the season events take place on Hunstanton green and the bandstand.

In and around Hunstanton High Street you’ll find shops to suit all needs, from last minute holiday essentials such as a bucket and spade to high street fashion for all ages, as well as gifts for the home and garden, kites, surf boards, kite-surfing and wind surfing equipment, model toys and homemade sweets.

There are a number of small cafes, tea rooms, chip shops and restaurants and along the sea front there are the usual purveyors of fresh sea food, Hunstanton Rock, ice cream and donuts.

Hunstanton market is held in the South End Market Car Park off Le Strange Terrace every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.

Searles Leisure Resort 01485 534211 Searles Sea Tours 01485 534444 Hunstanton SEA LIFE Sanctuary 01485 533576

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Cambridge’s favourite festival is back!

A festival of events proudly supporting local charities

RAISING FUNDS IN SUPPORT OF

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity

making every moment count

All events hosted at:

“The Home of The Cambridge Roar”

www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk

Friday, Saturday & Sunday April 20th - 22nd • 10 - 5pm

Just Crafts at Sandringham

Adults £7.00 • Over 65’s £6.50

A Makers’ Show that includes: Children £2.00 • ARTISTS, DESIGNERS AND CRAFTSMEN Jewellery, fused glass, blown glass, pictures and prints, ceramics, fabrics.

Purchase an inimitable piece of creativity.

• WORKING DEMONSTRATIONS AND RURAL SKILLS Glassblowing, blacksmiths, woodturners, stick maker, chair maker, bodger, barrel maker, corn dollies and many more fascinating displays.

• THE SANDRINGHAM CHAINSAW TEAM including daily speed carving demonstrations • FOOD HALL Come and browse our large Food Hall for home made cuisine of all types. The halls host a wide range of food and drink from regional and national producers and retailers.

SANDRINGHAM, Nr. Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE35 6EN

www.sandringhamcraftshow.co.uk

Living Heritage Events

Tel: 01283 820548

LH0034 90.5x128mm 2-3.indd 1

28/02/2018 10:04

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

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

S3295 KHH East of England Tourist Guide.qxp_Layout 1 19/02/2018 20:55 Page 1

Beautiful hotel and spa in the heart of the Norfolk countryside

Accommodation with leisure facilities

Traditional on-site pub with carvery

Afternoon Teas, Light Lunches

South Wootton, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 3HQ

Tel: 01553 675566 Email: reception@knightshill.co.uk www.knightshill.co.uk

Annual Self-Hire Pass Year Round Adventure on Punts, Kayaks and Canoes

Purchase Online www.scudamores.com | 01223 359750 | enquiries@scudamores.com

KING’S LYNN Full of history, King’s Lynn is a great destination offering a superb mix of history, heritage, shopping and entertainment. With its historic waterfront, cobbled lanes flanked by medieval merchants’ houses and two magnificent market places, the town is a treat to discover and explore.

At the heart of the medieval old town, magnificent King’s Lynn Minster dominates the Saturday Market Place around which is some fine architecture including the distinctive Trinity Guildhall and historic Town Hall complex. Take a short walk past the grand buildings and merchants houses of King Street and Queen Street, towards the magnificent Tuesday Market Place, probably one of England’s grandest squares and home to the Corn Exchange, now a thriving concert hall.

A great way to explore the town is to follow the King’s Lynn Maritime Trail. Discover the town’s history as a premier English sea port, the stories of its merchants, ship builders, sailors, fishermen, press gangs, porters and pubs which have played key roles in its history.

Another way to discover the real history of the town is to join one the regular guided walks with the King’s Lynn Town Guides. Walks run regularly on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday afternoons from May through to October.

King’s Lynn’s Corn Exchange offers a sparkling programme of live entertainment, including opera, ballet, concerts, comedy and children’s shows. King’s Lynn is also home to a classic Victorian style cinema, the Majestic, which screens films to cater for all tastes.

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Visit the Tourist Information Centre and maritime displays at the Custom House to find out more about the host of places such as True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum and nearby St Nicholas’ Chapel, Lynn Museum, King’s Lynn Minster, Marriott’s Warehouse, Greyfriars Tower and Gardens or the classic 18th century town park known as ‘The Walks’ where you can indulge yourself in discovering more of King’s Lynn’s rich history and heritage.

A great place to start your visit is the iconic Custom House with its elegant rooms, views of the river and displays that tell of the famous mariners of Lynn - including Vancouver and Nelson - as well as its merchants, customs men and smugglers.

For those who cannot resist a tipple from Norfolk or further afield be sure to try Beers Of Europe, purveyors of the best selection of global beers, wines and ciders in the UK. King’s Lynn is a shopper’s paradise. As you stroll through the cobbled streets you’ll find large brand names at every turn. The Vancouver Quarter is the main hub for national retailers and has established itself as the town’s destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Throughout the year it holds regular promotions, events and fun days for visitors.

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange 01553 764864 Lynn Museum 01553 775001 www.visitwestnorfolk.com

NORWICH A visit to Norwich will bring you to the very heart of East Anglia, one of the finest heritage cities in the land where you’ll discover over 1,000 years of history, a buzzing cultural scene and superb shopping destination.

Thanks to its medieval origins as Britain’s second city, Norwich has an historic fabric that stands comparison with the finest heritage cities in the UK. Over 1,500 historic buildings lie within the city walls and the city’s compact scale means you can easily explore on foot.

As well as two magnificent cathedrals and an imposing Norman castle, you’ll find more medieval churches than any other city north of the Alps within the city’s pretty medieval streets such as the wonderfully preserved Elm Hill with its cobbles and half-timbered houses.

Dragon Hall, with its superb dragon crown-post roof, is the only medieval trading hall known to survive in Western Europe and a historical treasure. Tucked away but well worth seeking out, The Plantation Garden is a wonderfully restored late Victorian town garden with a gothic fountain, rustic bridge and Italianate terrace. Many of the city’s heritage sites can be explored through guided walks and tours, visitor attractions, exhibitions, music and performances, cafés, restaurants and gift shops.

Norwich offers a vibrant cultural scene with a wealth of fantastic cultural experiences whether you enjoy the performing and visual arts or you’re inspired by fine buildings and amazing history. The iconic Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery stands proud over the city and offers both permanent and visiting exhibitions whilst lunchtime concerts can be enjoyed in the delightful music room at the Assembly House.

The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts offers outstanding collections of contemporary and world art. Norwich has a remarkable choice of theatre including Norwich Theatre Royal, whose programme includes top West End shows, operas and ballets, the Maddermarket Theatre and the Norwich Puppet Theatre.

With such a large proportion of Norfolk farmers producing fruit, vegetables, dairy and meat it is almost impossible for this not to translate onto the menus of local restaurants and eateries. From fine dining to gastro pubs, cafés to restaurants, Norwich is a cosmopolitan city offering dining experiences with imagination and flair.

Norwich is blessed to house so many independent places to dine. Some establishments have been running for decades and others have popped up over the past few years. All offer high standards of customer service with exceptional menus and food. Norwich has a love of food and drink and you’ll find regular events at many restaurants.

It’s not hard to see why Norwich ranks so high for shopping. With its large pedestrian areas and bustling lanes, its quirky independent shops, six day open-air market and spacious modern shopping malls, Norwich is truly a great destination for shoppers.

Norwich has all the UK’s leading department stores including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser and Debenhams. The Castle Mall and intu Chapelfield shopping centres have over 150 stores between them whilst dozens of independent shops, many within the historic Norwich Lanes area, bring an extra dimension to any trip.

The pretty streets and narrow alleys of the Lanes embrace all aspects of contemporary lifestyle shopping and also offer plenty of independent cafés and restaurants. The city’s colourful market is open Monday-Saturday, and worth a visit is the Goat Lane Fair held at the Quakers’ Meeting House every Thursday, 8am to 3pm, where you’ll find a huge range of antiques, collectables and vintage items. Similarly, try the Norwich Original Fleamarket, held in St Andrew’s Hall, on selected dates throughout the year.

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the giggly goat

craft shop & gallery

STEAM TRAINS TO THE NORFOLK BROADS

STEAM TRAINS TO THE NORFOLK BROADS

A L L A B O A R D F O R A G R E A T D AY O U T !

Tr ains fr om Aylsham or Wr oxham Combined Tr ain and Cr uise

20 lower goat lane, norwich nr2 1el 01603 663299 www.thegigglygoat.co.uk info@thegigglygoat.co.uk open mon-fri 10-5, sat 9.30-5.30 & sundays 11-4 in november & December

Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW

0 1 2 6 3 7 3 3 8 5 8 - w w w. b v r w. c o . u k

LORD AND LADY WALPOLE INVITE YOU TO ENJOY WALKS, TRAILS, GARDENS AND THE MANY SPECIAL EVENTS AT

MANNINGTON GARDENS

WHY NOT VISIT THE GREEDY GOOSE TEA ROOMS SERVING HOME MADE LOCAL PRODUCE

Wine Tours and Tastings at Chet Valley Vineyard in Bergh Apton South Norfolk John Hemmant wine maker and vineyard owner welcomes you to Chet Valley Vineyard nestled in the South Norfolk Village of Bergh Apton.

Your Chet Valley experience will start with a tour of the vines followed by a visit to the winery where there is an opportunity to see the wine making process in action plus taste wines straight from the vat (subject to season).

Finally you will be offered a tasting of 6 wines accompanied by local cheese and charcuterie if you wish. Allow 2 hours for the tour and tasting.

Tasting for over 18s only. Cost is £12 per person. Under 18s free.

Booking in advance by phone or email is essential

Chet Valley Vineyard, Loddon Road, Bergh Apton, NR15 1BT Telephone 01508 333002 www.chetvineyard.co.uk Email: chetandwaveney.vineyard@gmail.com We are on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and also Tripadvisor. @ukwinemakerwife Chet and Waveney Valley Wines @ukwinemakerwife

Walks and car park open daily until dusk Gardens open May 27th to end of August Sundays, and Wednesday to Fridays 11 am to 5pm For events including music, drama, art exhibitions and children’s activities please see our website. Contact us for weddings, celebrations, party visits and corporate events.

MANNINGTON HALL, NORWICH, NORFOLK NR11 7BB

Email: admin@walpoleestate.co.uk Tel: 01263 584175 www.manningtongardens.co.uk

Norwich Market | credit: Nick Farrow

The city has had its own independent department store, Jarrolds, since 1823 whilst the art nouveau Royal Arcade is home to the one and only Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum.

Don’t forget to visit The Forum where you will find the Millennium Library with storytelling and other fun activities plus an amphitheatre where on a busy lunchtime you can sit and watch street entertainers and performers - Covent Garden style.

When the weather is kind and you want to explore ‘hidden Norwich’ why not plan some time to visit the Bishop’s Garden at Norwich Cathedral, or try a children’s stained glass window workshop at the beautiful church of St Peter Hungate in Princess Street.

The Norfolk & Norwich Festival takes place every year in May (11-27 May 2018) and features a fantastic line-up of music, arts, theatre and entertainment throughout the city for two weeks. There are also plenty of places to buy local produce for eating at home or taking back to family or friends.

Every year the city has a great programme of entertainment, from free activities in the parks and open spaces to outdoor theatre. With interactive workshops, music, performances, sporting activities, arts and crafts, there really is something for everyone. There are weekend bandstand concerts throughout the summer in many of the Norwich parks offering wonderful live music and the opportunity to take along your homemade picnic.

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery 01603 493649 The Assembly House 01603 626402 The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts University of East Anglia 01603 593199 Norwich Theatre Royal 01603 630000 Norwich Puppet Theatre 01603 615564 Maddermarket Theatre 01603 620917 Norwich Original Fleamarket 01603 630763 Dragon Hall 01603 877177

A number of excellent delis are scattered across the city where you can purchase beer, wine, cheese, rare breed sausages, artisan bread, pies, jams and organic chocolate – the list goes on. Finally not forgetting Norwich Market where some stalls have been owned by four generations of the same family.

The Plantation Garden 07504 545810 Colman’s Mustard Shop and Museum 01603 627889 Norwich Arts Centre 01603 660352

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Come to the

Cat Pottery

Sandringham houSe muSeum & gardenS The Country retreat of h.m. The Queen

1 Grammar School Road, North Walsham NR28 9JH

And see me being made.

Also collection of Railwayana and other curiosities.

Open: 9-5 Mon-Fri & 11-1 Saturday No entrance fee

open daily easter to mid-July and early august to october (closed good Friday) www.sandringhamestate.co.uk or 01485 545408

Visit: www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly/

eastlife

NORTH WALSHAM & MUNDSLEY Ideally situated for both the Norfolk Broads and the coast, North Walsham is a market town of Georgian frontage dominated by the large 14th Century ‘wool church’ of St Nicholas and boasting a 400-year-old Palladian-style ‘Cross’. Explore the byways around North Walsham to find medieval churches, cosy pubs and the tranquil waterways of the Broads.

Venture towards the coast and you will come across the fine sandy beaches of Mundesley.

The pocket sized cliff top seaside resort, with its colourful beach huts and Blue Flag beach, has proved a popular destination for visitors looking for a traditional seaside holiday.

SANDRINGHAM The village of Sandringham, just north of King’s Lynn, is best known for Sandringham House and Estate, the Queen’s favoured country retreat. Much of the house, including ground floor rooms used by the Royal Family, is open to the public, as well as acres of gardens and a museum housing collections of Royal vehicles, rare ceramics, photographs and memorabilia. The house, built in 1870 by the Prince and Princess of Wales (later King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra), has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs, and the decor and contents remain much as they were in Edwardian times.

The 60 acres of gardens that surround the house have been added to and adapted by each of Sandringham’s Royal generations, and feature woodland walks, carrstone rockeries, formal Edwardian gardens with pleached lime avenues and a stream walk.

The estate’s 600 acre Country Park is open to the public every day at no charge. There are many woodland paths to explore and two waymarked Nature Trails, one 1.5 miles and the other 2.5 miles long. Tractor and trailer tours run daily when the house is open, which, for a small charge, offer an easy way to see the park.

The beautiful medieval church, where the Royal Family worship while they are at Sandringham, is also open to the public during the visitor season. The highly decorated interior contains a magnificent silver altar and pulpit, together with a very fine 16th century processional cross and a number of memorials to the Royal Family.

Sandringham Estate 01485 545400 Mundesley Maritime Museum www.mundesleymaritimemuseum.co.uk

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TO US!

SHERINGHAM A plume of steam is often seen rising above the heart of Sheringham, as engines embark from The Poppy Line heritage railway along the coast to Holt.

the stunning colour of the rhododendrons and azaleas that blossom from mid-May to midJune. A treetop platform gives breath-taking coastal views.

The Poppy Line station hosts themed events throughout the year, recalling a golden age of the railways with steam and diesel engines, or evoking the magic of Christmas with Santa Specials.

Sheringham has a market on a Saturday and Wednesday.

Sheringham boasts an array of independent shops, and there is a wealth of attractions in and around the town. ‘Splash’ is a family leisure pool with fitness facilities, while the enchanting Priory Maze & Gardens lie around the ruins of the 13th Century Augustinian Friary of St Mary at Beeston Regis.

The National Trust’s Sheringham Park is a mature woodland with paths and walks punctuated by viewing platforms for taking in

Sheringham Park National Trust Visitor Centre 01263 820550 Priory Maze & Gardens 01263 822986 Splash Leisure & Fitness Centre 01263 825675 Sheringham Little Theatre 01263 822347 Hilltop Outdoor Centre 01263 824514 The Fishermen’s Heritage Centre sheringhamsociety.com North Norfolk Railway 01263 820800

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Our self catering Garden Lodge and Boat House accommodation have splendid views overlooking the sea.

Self catering Breaks by the Sea

Located in the picturesque seaside town of Old Hunstanton on the north Norfolk coast, the Le Strange Arms Hotel is the perfect venue for the ultimate relaxing seaside break.

Tel: 01485 534411 Email: reception@lestrangearms.co.uk Old Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6JJ www.lestrangearms.co.uk

SWAFFHAM Swaffham is a delightful town, and was used for the TV series Kingdom starring Stephen Fry. Located on the very northern point of the Brecks, an area of outstanding beauty, Swaffham is a naturally pretty town offering history, culture and plenty to see and do.

The town has a great weekly market on Saturdays, beautiful Georgian buildings and a magnificent church.

Nearby Oxburgh Hall is a romantic, moated manor house. It was built by the Bedingfeld family in the 15th century and they have lived there ever since. Inside, the family’s Catholic history is revealed, complete with a secret priest’s hole which you can crawl inside.

Outside, you can enjoy panoramic views from the gate-house roof and follow the wood-carving trails in the gardens and woodlands.

Swaffham is a great base for exploring The Brecks.

THETFORD Thetford is an ancient market town filled to the brim with history and heritage sites, quiet gardens, open parkland and a relaxing riverside. With Thetford Forest right on the doorstep, this is also the best base for discovering the wildlife and outdoor pleasures of The Brecks ideal for walking, cycling, riding and action-packed adventure days.

Many of the buildings in the town and surrounding villages were used for filming and there is a Dad’s Army exhibition at the nearby Bressigham Steam Museum near Diss, and a statue of actor Arthur Lowe as Captain Mainwaring in Thetford town. Thetford has been the Saxon capital of East Anglia; an important medieval religious centre, an elegant 19th century spa and the manufacturing base of the world-famous Burrell steam engines.

In the heart of Thetford Forest you’ll find Go Ape, an award-winning high wire forest adventure course of rope bridges, Tarzan swings and zip slides, all set high up in the trees. If you’re looking for a phenomenal family day out, Go Ape is guaranteed fun. You can also take in Go Ape’s beautiful location from the ground as you whizz through the forest on segways. The day is guaranteed to leave you on an adrenaline filled buzz as high as the trees!

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Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B

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

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

Fully LICENSED BAR serving the best choice of local REAL ALES from cask Listed in The CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE since 2010

For more details visit www.albatroswells.co.uk

Speciality LODGING/B&B in the former CREW CABINS LIVE MUSIC every weekend OPEN daily for LUNCH and DINNER from 12 noon CLOSED on CHRISTMAS DAY

For Enquiries

07979 087228

Our new look takeaway at Platten’s

10% OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT* Overlooking the stunning coastal views of the harbour, our takeaway provides both takeaway and eat in options, where you can sit in the spacious 60 seat Fisherman’s Yard.

Visit our website to download a 10% off voucher today

WWW.PLATTENSFISHANDCHIPS.CO.UK FIND US

FOLLOW US

Platten’s Fish & Chips, Quayside, Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AH

Plattensfishandchips

01328 711 249

@Plattens_Wells

Terms & conditions apply.

Plattensfishchips

WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA Sitting at the quay crabbing - or gillieing, is a longstanding tradition for holidaymakers at Wells-next-the-Sea. Wells, with its small working harbour, is dominated by a 100-year-old granary building, whose gantry overhangs the harbourfront as a reminder of past glories.

The town is also known for its sweeping sandy beach and the stilt-high huts in primary colours that look out across the beach at the mouth of the harbour.

The town is a network of narrow streets, old alleys and yards. Some of the town’s buildings are hundreds of years old, and many, including former coaching inns and public houses, are listed buildings.

A great way to travel through the area is by using the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, which is the longest 10 inch narrow gauge line in the world. This runs from Wells to the holy village of Walsingham, where pilgrims come to this day to worship at the Roman Catholic and Anglican shrines.

A short distance from Wells is Holkham estate, with its stately Palladian mansion, Bygones Museum, deer park and Holkham beach. This part of North Norfolk forms part of the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales.

Wells-next-the-Sea and indeed the whole of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a haven for twitchers. Bitterns and terns, oyster catchers, avocets and marsh harriers are among the species which make this part of North Norfolk a prime site for birdwatching.

SUPPLIERS OF THE

Finest Quality Locally-Sourced Food Since 1889

Flying the Flag for Norfolk Produce

ARTHUR HOWELL WWW.ARTHURHOWELL.COM

01328-710228 WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA

•

BURNHAM MARKET

WALSINGHAM Walsingham, known as ‘England’s Nazereth’, has been a place of pilgrimage since medieval times. Comprised of two conjoined villages, Little Walsingham and Great Walsingham, it is famed for its religious shrines in honour of the Virgin Mary.

The Wells Walsingham Light Railway is the longest 10 1/4” narrow gauge steam railway in the world and the wonderful scenic journey with five bridges through lovely countryside is worth taking.

WYMONDHAM Wymondham is an historic market town with an attractive town centre, a number of notable old buildings and a good range of shops.

Wymondham Abbey, founded in 1101, is one of the finest and most interesting of the historic churches of East Anglia. Its two tall towers dominate the countryside for miles around.

Wymondham is also the starting point for one of the largest preserved railways in the UK, the Mid-Norfolk Railway, which hosts a number of special events throughout the year.

The annual Wymondham Music Festival Fortnight is a popular event, which takes place mid-summer. It features a mix of musical styles for all ages, with a combination of open air and formal concerts and community events.

Art lovers should head to the Wymondham Arts Centre for its changing displays throughout the year.

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Ken’s Traditional

FISH & CHIP Restaurant THE BLAKENEY

Ken's traditional fish and chip shop is in the heart of Wroxham offers quality food and a warm friendly service. The restaurant at the rear of the premises has stunning views across the broads and there is also outside seating so that diners can The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL enjoy the river side location.

THE BLAKENEY

COTTAGE COMPANY

COTTAGE COMPANY

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

THE BLAKENEY

THE

A takeaway menu is also available so BLAKENEY THE customers can enjoy delicious fish COTTAGE BLAKENEY and chips where ever they please. COMPANY COTTAGE

COTTAGE COMPANY

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

COMPANY

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

Ken’s is the longest running Fish and The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL Chip shop in Wroxham and is now THE under the new management of local BLAKENEY THE COTTAGE BLAKENEY lad Michael who has worked there COMPANY COTTAGE since his teens and has learnt his THE COMPANY BLAKENEY trade from the original owner.

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

COTTAGE COMPANY

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

01603 783739 • 01603 784445 The Bridge • Norwich Road • Wroxham • Norfolk • NR12 8DA The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

COMPANY COTTAGE

The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL

BLAKENEY THE

WHAT’S ON? 3-15 Apr, 28 May- 2 June, 25 July - 31 Aug & 3-5 Sept Field to Fork Tractor Trailer Tour

Holkham Hall, NR23 1AB www.holkham.co.uk/events/whats-on

28-29 Apr East Anglian Game and Country Fair Euston Hall, Euston, Thetford IP24 2QH www.ukgamefair.co.uk

28 Apr - 13 May Broads Outdoors Festival Various venues www.outdoorsfestival.co.uk

11-27 May Norfolk & Norwich Festival

Various venues www.nnfestival.org.uk

19-20 May Crab & Lobster Festival Cromer and Sheringham www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk

24 May - 3 June Norwich City of Ale

Various venues www. cityofale.org.uk

27-28 May Country Fair Hoveton Hall Estate www.hovetonhall.co.uk

8-16 Jun Great Yarmouth Arts Festival

11 Jul - 16 Sep Grand Summer Spectacular & Water Show

Hippodrome Circus, Great Yarmouth www.hippodromecircus.co.uk

14-16 Jul Annual Beer Festival

Sheringham Station www.nnrailway.co.uk

21-29 Jul Holt Festival

Holt NR25 6BN www.holtfestival.org

25-Jul Sandringham Flower Show Sandringham Park www.sandringhamestate.co.uk

27 Jul - 4 Aug Wells Carnival Wells-next-the-Sea www.wellscarnival.co.uk

28 Jul - 5 Aug Sheringham Carnival

www.sheringhamcarnival.com

4-5 Aug Sandringham Food & Drink Festival Sandringham Estate www.sandringhamfoodfestival.co.uk

11-Aug The Great British Prom

Blickling Estate www.revival-productions.co.uk

13-14 Aug North Norfolk Music Festival

Various venues www.greatyarmouthartsfestival.co.uk

Various venues www.northnorfolkmusicfestival.com

15-17 Jun Summer Diesel Gala

26-Aug Auction and World Crabbing Competition

North Norfolk Railway www.nnrailway.co.uk

17-Jun Father’s Day Dens & Fire Holkham Hall, NR23 1AB www.holkham.co.uk/events/whats-on 17-Jun Norwich Food and Drink Festival The Forum, Norwich norfolkfoodanddrink.com

6-8 Jul Gin Festival Norwich

The Halls, St Andrews, Norwich, NR3 1AU www.ginfestival.com

Cromer and Sheringham www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk

8-9 Sep Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival South Quay www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/maritime-festival

8-9 Sep Sandringham Game & Country Fair Sandringham Park www.livingheritagecraftshows.com

15-16 Sep Out There Festival

Great Yarmouth www.seachangearts.org.uk/out-there-festival

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Inclusive Short Breaks at Potters Resort

Comfortable accommodation

For nearly 100 years, our family has been welcoming guests to our unique and friendly Resort by the sea.

We offer a fantastic selection of inclusive short breaks on the beautiful Norfolk coast:

• Adult Midweek Breaks • Family Breaks • Drinks Inclusive Breaks • Weekends With Friends • Star Act Breaks

Full board - Four meals a day

Breaks from as little as £129 Per person

Inclusive sports and leisure activities

Plus you can receive a £10 per person, per night discount on your first Potters break. Simply Quote GUIDE at time of booking.

Visit www.pottersholidays.com to find out more.

POTTERS RESORT • COAST ROAD • HOPTON-ON-SEA • NORFOLK • NR31 9BX GUIDE must be quoted at time of booking. Terms and conditions apply. New bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Prices are based on Standard Bungalow accommodation, supplements apply for Bungalow Plus and Hotel accommodation. Calls are charged at national rate and in many cases count to your inclusive minutes on mobile and landline contracts. Subject to promotional rate availability.

Mid-Norfolk Railway The Dereham to Wymondham Abbey Line

Large & Small Groups Welcome Discounts available for parties of 10 or more Free Coach Parking at Dereham Station On-board catering or meals at Dereham Station available if booked in advance Free meal for driver

Complete Package Tour

to include Train Trip, Lunch and one of the following: Gooderstone Water Gardens, near Swaffham Gressenhall Workhouse Museum, near Dereham Wells & Walsingham Light Railway The Market Town of Wymondham and Wymondham Abbey Broads Tours, Wroxham

For more details and to book, please email marketing@mnr.org.uk or telephone 07585 855350 / 01362 667814

First-class live evening entertainment

MORE THAN JUST A TRAIN JOURNEY North Norfolk Railway Plc

@nnrailway

www.nnrailway.co.uk enquiries@nnrailway.co.uk

01263 820 800

Sheringham Cottages 1-4 Jan18.qxp_1/4 PORTRAIT GRID 11/12/2017 16:34 Page 1

Relax on the North Norfolk Coast

Real Norfolk Ales from Real Norfolk Barley Choose from over 60 naturally bottle-conditioned real Norfolk ales from 15 local brewers who use our farm’s classic malt as their prime ingredient.

Summer Opening Times Mon to Sat 10am - 6pm Sunday 12 - 4pm On the B1105 Fakenham to Wells road, NR23 1SB

Tel: 01328 710810

www.therealaleshop.co.uk/norfolk

31/3/11 The enchanting Water Gardens

The Real Ale Shop.indd 1

at Gooderstone

 Local family run business  Six delightful 4 star / families welcome graded holiday properties sleeping from 2 to 15 in Sheringham  Foresters, Augusta & Madge are all rated suitable for wheelchair users by Visit England, as well as being great for families  Superb quiet location. Blue flag beach, shops, family pubs, theatre and 18-hole golf course all within 200 metres  Free use of local leisure centre, inc. swim and gym, Sky TV, sports and movies, Wi-fi, gardens and off road parking  Free pick up from Sheringham train & bus station Call: 01263 577 560 Web: www.sheringhamcottages.com Email: enquiries@sheringhamcottages.com

09:50:25

SNETTISHAM PARK

What could be nicer than to stroll through an enchanting garden, explore the nature trail, perhaps spot a kingfisher and enjoy delicious home-made cakes.

Deer Safari Park & Farming Attraction

Garden open daILY aLL Year. 10 - 5.30

Tearoom open 12 March to end October, daily if weather fair.

Please check 01366 328118 / 01366 328007 Closes 5 pm, 4 pm from September.

Children 16 and under FREE & Dogs on leads allowed Coaches and group visits welcome by appointment.

Discounts on request.

All enquiries please call Coral Hoyos

Garden - 07730 551945, Tearoom - 01366 328118

Gooderstone Water Gardens & Nature Trail, Gooderstone, PE33 9BP coral@sunnycottage.plus.com www.gooderstonewatergardens.co.uk

ALL YEAR: Amazing Deer Safari Friendly Farm Animals Children’s Play Area Visitor Centre & Tea Room SEASONAL ACTIVITES:

Pony Rides/ Lead Rein Treks Bottle Feeding Lambs Egg Collecting Deer Calving and much more…

OPEN DAILY 10am-5pm T: O1485 542425 PE31 7NG

www.snettishampark.co.uk

USEFUL CONTACTS

Attleborough Town Council Tel: 01953 456194 attleboroughtc.org.uk

Diss Mere Street Tel: 01379 650523 www.diss.gov.uk

Holt 3 Pound House, Market Place Tel: 01263 713100

Aylsham TIC 28 Norwich Rd, Aylsham, NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733903

Downham Market Priory Road Tel: 01366 383287 west-norfolk.gov.uk

Hunstanton Town Hall Tel: 01485 532610 visithunstanton.info

Burnham Deepdale Deepdale Farms Tel: 01485 211142 www.deepdalebackpackers.co.uk

Great Yarmouth 25 Marine Parade Tel: 01493 846346 great-yarmouth.co.uk

King’s Lynn The Custom House, Purfleet Quay Tel: 01553 763044 visitwestnorfolk.com

Cromer TIC Louden Rd, NR27 9EF Tel: 01263 512497 www.northnorfolk.org

Harleston 8 Exchange Street Tel: 01379 851917 harleston-norfolk. org.uk

Mundesley Station Road Tel: 01263 721070 mundesley.org

North Norfolk Information Centre Louden Road, Cromer Tel: 01263 512497 northnorfolk.org Norwich The Forum Tel: 01603 213999 norwich.gov.uk Sheringham Station Approach Tel: 01263 824329 visitsheringham.co.uk Swaffham 4 London Street Tel: 01760 722255 aroundswaffham.co.uk

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Ickworth

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

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

nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

#nationaltrust

Explore the beauty of the River Orwell with

Orwell Lady River Cruises

Holiday homes for sale and Touring Park The ideal base from which to explore the stunning Suffolk coast and countryside, or just relax and put your feet up.

01728 831655

Daytime Public Cruises • Music Nights English Afternoon Tea Cruises Sunday Lunch Buffets • Private Charters School Trips • Coach Parties Welcome • Sailing from Ipswich Waterfront

www.cakesandale.co.uk

01473 258070

reception@cakesandale.co.uk

www.orwellrivercruises.com

OR BOOK ONLINE

ALDEBURGH Aldeburgh is a striking town found on the unspoiled East Suffolk Coast. It is blessed with breathtaking scenery, both seawards and following the River Alde inland.

Once an important Tudor port and shipbuilding area, Aldeburgh had to wait until the 19th century when the fashion for the beach and craze for sea air brought back visitors in quantity, establishing it as a popular resort. It is now characterised by its lively beachside atmosphere and thriving musical influence, once described as ‘a place of energy and inspiration for music and the arts’.

The town’s most famous inhabitant was the composer Benjamin Britten and there are many reminders of his life about the town.

Britten established the classical Aldeburgh Music Festival in 1948, placing Aldeburgh firmly on the musical map. Taking place at nearby Snape Maltings for two weeks every June, the festival kicks off the town’s summer season of events which also includes Jill Freud’s Aldeburgh Summer Theatre in July

and August, and the Carnival and Regatta on 18-20 August 2018.

Popular with weekend seadogs, Aldeburgh has an active yacht club catering for both the self-assured and the less buoyant sailors visiting the town.

For those less inclined to take to the high seas the town boasts two popular golf courses, all-weather tennis courts, and of course a historical legacy unlikely to go unnoticed, such as 400-year old Moot Hall (now home to Aldeburgh’s museum), a Norman Church and a Martello tower.

The high street has craft, food and antiques shops, reflecting local passions, as well as a myriad of excellent pubs and restaurants, not to mention Aldeburgh’s famous fish and chip shop - just be prepared to queue!

With a range of accommodation to suit all requirements ranging from cottages to rent to family run B&Bs, Aldeburgh is undoubtedly not to be missed!

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Run Cottage

POSSIBLY THE FRIENDLIEST CARAVAN SITE IN SUFFOLK

Touring Park

East Anglian Wine of the Year 2017

VINEYARD & WINERY TOURS flintvineyard.com | 01986 893209 Earsham, Bungay, Norfolk, NR35 2AH

Close to the town of Woodbridge we are a small family run touring park with 45 pitches. Set in a 4.5 acre parkland setting with a large pond and views over open farmland, we offer peace and tranquility.

Our new luxury Glamping pods are now available for hire, Each pod comes complete with 4’6 oak frame double bed with pillows, complete with cotton sheets, duvet & Pillows, Large leather sofa, TV & DVD player comes with 140 free sat channels, Small fridge with freezer compartment & Microwave, Complementary Tea & Coffee on arrival, Individual BBQ stand beside glamping pod for disposable BBQ Plates/Bowls/Mugs/Glasses & knife & Forks provided.

Bistro table and chairs on the decking overlooking our wildlife pond.

Run Cottage Touring Park, Alderton Road, Hollesley, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3RQ Website: www.runcottage.co.uk Email: info@runcottage.co.uk

THE SWAN MOTEL THE SWAN MOTEL, A MOTEL, RESTAURANT AND PUBLIC HOUSE SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF GILLINGHAM ON THE NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK BORDER JUST OUTSIDE THE MARKET TOWN OF BECCLES.

Luxury Self-catering Accommodation in eight Converted Barns on a working Arable and Dairy Farm.

We are situated in the beautiful peaceful rural Waveney Valley adjoining the southern tip of the Norfolk Broads.

Many fantastic sandy beaches and attractions can be found a short distance from Wheatacre Hall Barns making this a great place to base your visit in your discovery of Norfolk and Suffolk. Facilities include, Games Barn, Fitness Barn, Soft Play Barn and Hot Tub and plenty of outdoor space for fun and games.

Fine Restaurant And Sunday Lunch We have 2 restaurants for you to dine in.

We offer food from the main menu but we also have daily specials and bar food. We also have a carvery which is available on Sundays

The Bar Area At The Swan Friendly Staff, plenty of drinks and good company at The Gillingham Swan

Magnificent Rooms To Complete Your Stay We have 14 fully refurbished rooms for you to choose from including our Double-

Contact Joanna Burroughs on 01502 677208 Wheatacre Hall Barns, Wheatacre, Beccles, NR34 0AS www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk

Deluxe-Ensuite-Honeymoon Suite

Loddon Road, Gillingham, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 0LD | 01502 470005

Beccles, credit: The Suffolk Coast

BECCLES The market town of Beccles lies in North West Suffolk on the banks of the Waveney River, on the Norfolk-Suffolk border. Once a thriving Saxon river port, Beccles is now a flourishing boating centre. Its attractive riverfront and quay make it a popular stop for passing pleasure crafts.

The town is dominated by the detached 16th-century bell tower next to St Michael’s Church, while a walk through the narrow streets of Beccles (the result of fires in the 16th and 17th centuries which paved the way for the town’s many Georgian houses) offers a chance to peruse an eclectic mix of boutiques and antique shops, with plenty to tempt the palates of visitors.

Twyford’s Café in Exchange Square serves a fine tea, for dining there’s Bear & Bells in The Old Market and The Swan House, a restaurant and boutique hotel near the bell tower is highly recommended. Among them are quality food shops, including Bailey’s Delicatessen on Hungate, which also has an upstairs bistro.

Like Aldeburgh in the summer, Beccles also boasts an array of festivities, with an annual carnival and regatta, with live music, a parade, fun fair and fireworks.

Most engaging of the annual get-togethers is the fiercely contested charity Rubber Duck Race.

Bungay, credit: The Suffolk Coast

BUNGAY The River Waveney loops around another market town situated on the Suffolk/ Norfolk border, the town of Bungay. The streets are full of historic charm and offer several independent shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. With its weekly markets and an abundance of outdoor pursuits in the area including walking, cycling, fishing and canoeing, there is plenty to keep even the most energetic of visitors busy.

Worth a look are the unused St Mary’s Church and the ruins of Bigod’s Castle, built in 1170, details of which can be found at the castle visitor centre on Cross Street.

For a bite to eat there’s the well-loved Buttercross Tearooms and Tea Gardens, lunch at The Castle Inn on Earsham Street and at the award-winning Earsham Street Café & Delicatessen.

Enjoy a scenic walk along the riverside pathway of the Waveney or hire a rowing boat to take advantage of unspoiled views of the heathland and golf course of Outney Common.

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Immerse yourself in 1000 years of history at Suffolk’s Cathedral and take a guided trip up our magnificent Millennium Tower* Guided tours of the cathedral also available with our friendly and knowledgeable guides.

Browse a huge range of gifts in our shop and refresh yourself in our welcoming Pilgrims’ Kitchen café which serves hot and cold food and drinks and has free Wi-Fi. Help us build history by laying a brick on our LEGO ® model. We’re building our cathedral out of 200,000 LEGO bricks and need your help! Donate £1 and lay a brick on the model.

You are assured of a warm welcome at our services and events.

For full details of services, events and news go to

www.stedscathedral.co.uk

The Cathedral Office, Abbey House, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LS

*tower tours only available on certain dates. Please check website for details.

EUSTON HALL OPEN DAYS EUSTON HALL

Greene King Brewery Tours

Following our success last year Euston Hall will be Open again as below:

7 days a week

Following our successth last year Euston Hall will be Monday 25 to Friday 29th June Open again as below:

“Outstanding” “Absolutely fantastic!”

“If you haven’t already done this tour… Why?” Visit our Beer Café open Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm

Call us 01284 714297 greenekingshop.co.uk Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1QT

OPEN DAYS

Monday 7th to Saturday 12th May

EUSTON HALL OPEN DAYS

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Thetford: T: 01842 751Hall, 975 Euston, www.leapinghare.org Euston Suffolk, IP24 2QW

Euston Hall, Euston, Suffolk, IP24 2QW All profits will benefit local Charities

Euston Hall, Euston, Suffolk, IP24 2QW All profits will benefit Charities All profits go to locallocal charities

All profits will benefit local Charities

All profits local charities All profitsgo go to to local charities

BURY ST EDMUNDS

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds

Few places in England can match the beauty, character and history of Bury St Edmunds. Rich in legend and folklore, the town has been admired down the years by visitors and authors from Daniel Defoe to Charles Dickens.

The town grew up around the powerful Abbey of St Edmund in early medieval times. Evidence of St Edmundsbury’s past and present is all around. Town and village streets, magnificent parish churches, and unspoiled landscapes throw light on an England that elsewhere has long been lost.

It’s a wonderful town to visit, with almost 1,000 preserved buildings and a network of streets that still follow the grid pattern devised by the abbots in the 11th century.

Take the Abbey Trail through the town and visit the old Abbey Ruins; the remains of the great Benedictine Abbey, destroyed in the dissolution of 1539.

The Abbey Gardens are well known for its stunning floral displays. St Edmundsbury Cathedral was mostly built in the 16th century and has been a cathedral since 1914 but in recent years has been completed with the addition of a new Gothic style lantern tower.

Portrait of Matthew Vernon (Sub Dean) of St Edmundsbury Cathedral

The town has excellent leisure and shopping facilities and is at its busiest on Wednesdays and Saturdays when people flock to the Buttermarket and Cornhill to visit one of the best provision markets in the East of England. The town is a shopper’s delight, where every sort of store from the large high street names to family-run businesses and fascinating small gift shops sit comfortably side-by-side.

Visit the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds; a restored Regency playhouse with a yearround programme of performances. The Apex is the town’s hub for entertainment.

It hosts events, music, comedy shows and more throughout the year. Don’t miss the Bury St Edmunds Festival from 18-27 May; 10 days of great music, theatre, film and exhibitions taking place throughout the town.

Other buildings to admire include the Victorian Corn Exchange; Cupola House, where Daniel Defoe once stayed; the Angel Hotel, where Charles Dickens and his creation Mr Pickwick stayed; and The Nutshell, owned by Greene King and declared the smallest pub in the country.

Image credits: Visit Suffolk | www.visitsuffolk.com

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CONSTABLE COUNTRY Constable Country is located on the Suffolk and Essex border, on the banks of the River Stour. This enchanting part of England was the birthplace of renowned artist John Constable and the subject matter of many of his most famous paintings.

Rippingdales Antiques Shop, Clare | www.visitsuffolk.com

CAVENDISH Cavendish is the perfect ‘picture postcard’ English village and arguably one of the prettiest villages in Suffolk. Situated in the Stour Valley, Cavendish is famed for its 14th/15th century church, a number of thatched cottages, and the Sue Ryder Foundation Museum, which tells the life story of Sue Ryder and the history of the foundation.

CLARE A delightful little wool town on the River Stour, it has a captivating history, offering a wide range of shops, antique outlets and excellent local cafes and pubs. Visit the remains of a 13th century Augustinian Priory and the quaint Ancient House Museum. The open space of Clare Castle Country Park is a wonderful place to relax as is the picturesque nearby River Stour.

Constable once said: “I associate my careless boyhood with all that lies on the banks of the Stour... those scenes made me a painter”, and indeed one of the best ways to appreciate the countryside that John Constable knew and loved is to walk around the picturesque Stour Valley.

By following in the footsteps of Constable, visitors can experience first hand the setting for some of Constable’s most famous paintings, such as ‘The Hay Wain’, ‘The Mill Stream’, ‘Boat-building near Flatford’ and ‘The White Horse’. The Bridge Cottage is now home to a small exhibition on Constable, a tearoom and shop.

The little riverside hamlet of Flatford is owned by the National Trust, which between March and October organise guided Constable tours around the village, lasting approximately one hour. You can also visit the village of East Bergholt, Constable’s birthplace, and from where a young Constable used to walk across the riverside meadows to Dedham every day on his way to school.

Close by is the historic market town of Hadleigh, the delightful Shotley Peninsula, and some wonderful villages along the Stour Valley, which you can follow all the way to Haverhill. Known the world over for its atmospheric skies and captivating natural beauty, this is an inspirational place to spend a holiday.

DEBENHAM A former court of East Anglian Kings, this attractive large village is set near the source of the River Deben. Once a thriving wool centre, the streets are lined with 14 -17th century timber-framed merchants’ houses. ‘Blood Field’ recalls a great battle which took place against the Danes.

Debenham is also home to the world famous Carters Teapot Pottery and Ceramic Cafe. Visitors can watch the teapots being made, browse around the Pottery Shop and enjoy light refreshments (homemade cakes and scones) in the Pottery’s small conservatory/tea room.

DUNWICH Once the capital of East Anglia, it’s hard to believe that the sleepy village of Dunwich was once a bustling port city with a population of 4,000. It might have been still if the sea hadn’t eaten away at it, leading to its almost complete abandonment by the 19th century, with its population dwindling to a mere 237.

Nonetheless there are fabulous reminders of its heyday, including the ruins of a Franciscan priory, while the natural splendour of Dunwich Heath is still intact.

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Euston Rural Pastimes Event

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Helmingham is famous for its Grade 1 Listed gardens, redesigned by Lady Tollemache (a Chelsea Gold Medallist) set in a 400 acre deer park surrounding a moated Tudor Hall. Visitors are enchanted by the herbaceous borders within the walled kitchen gardens, the herb & knot garden, rose and wild gardens. A delicious range of local food is served in the Coach House Tearooms and the Stable Shops offer a wide array of local produce, plants, garden accessories and local crafts.

Winner of the HHA/Christie’s Garden of the Year Award 2017 Many special events including The Festival of Classic & Sports Cars and specialist Plant Fairs are held throughout the season and groups are warmly welcomed. Please contact us for further details of group booking discounts.

Open May – September Tues, Wed, Thurs and Sun 11:00 – 4:30

Helmingham Hall Gardens, Helmingham, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6EF t: 01473 890799 e: events@helmingham.com w: www.helmingham.com Photos copyright of Marcus Harper

Felixstowe, bordered on the north by the River Deben and on the south by the River Orwell, is a well-loved resort known for its quality sand and shingle beach, long promenade, perfectly kept seafront gardens and seaside attractions.

Felixstowe became a fashionable seaside resort in the 1880s, and has retained many of its attractive Victorian and Edwardian houses and hotels. The seafront is over four miles long, with a wide promenade that stretches almost the entire length of the beach from Languard Point to Felixstowe Ferry.

The front has all the attractions of a traditional seaside holiday resort, with old-fashioned beach huts, fish and chip shops, a funfair, amusement arcade, miniature golf, bowling green, cafés and restaurants, as well as the facilities of the leisure centre. Alternatively, you could enjoy a retro night at the movies at the 1930s Palace Cinema.

FELIXSTOWE

Felixstowe’s summer season of events includes a French Market, Historic Vehicle Rally, tennis tournament, Carnival and Fair and Art on the Prom, which this year takes place on 2 September.

Felixstowe is home to the UK’s largest container port and Europe’s busiest. The viewing area at Landguard on the southern edge of the town offers great views of container and passenger ships from Felixstowe and Harwich harbours. Next to the view point is the Felixstowe Museum, full of artifacts from Roman to recent times, and Landguard Fort, a multi-period military building dating back to the 16th century.

At the mouth of the River Orwell are the Landguard Bird Observatory and the Landguard Peninsular Nature Reserve, a significant site for shore and migrant birds, and rare shingle flowers.

North of the town centre is the fishing village of Old Felixstowe and at the mouth of the River Deben, the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry with its gallery, golf course, cottages, boat yard and riverside inns. Here you can explore coastal paths, see the Martello Towers, pick up fresh fish, enjoy excellent fish and chips at the Ferry Café and catch the small ferry boat across the estuary to Bawdsey.

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View of the cottage within the walls of Framlingham Castle | www.visitsuffolk.com

FRAMLINGHAM

HADLEIGH

Framlingham, known locally as ‘Fram’, sits in the unspoilt countryside of East Suffolk’s coastal district. The pretty market town has a conservation area and many of the town’s buildings date from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Framlingham’s trail is a good way to explore the town’s history and interesting buildings.

Hadleigh, in the south of Suffolk close to the border of Essex, offers a wonderful mix of the old and new, and is known as much for its collection of interesting shops, pubs and restaurants as it is for its fine architecture.

The 12th-century Framlingham Castle, owned by the English Heritage, was the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Norfolk.

Mary Tudor lived in the castle in 1553 and it was here that she heard she had become Queen of England. Open daily for much of the year (March - November, weekends only) visitors can walk around the battlements and along the wall to take in good views of the countryside and the Mere. Concerts and re-enactments take place in the grounds between March and September.

The Suffolk Wildlife Trust manages the Mere, which runs alongside Framlingham Castle. Framlingham town centre is best known for its antique shops, and is a great place to search for a special find. A twiceweekly market takes place on Market Hill every Tuesday and Saturday.

Hadleigh is one of Britain’s finest ancient market towns, with a rich architectural history that has its origins in Saxon times.

Hadleigh’s High Street is almost a mile long and runs parallel with the river, and of the 137 properties that line the street 90 percent are listed buildings.

HALESWORTH Halesworth is a small market town primarily centred around a pedestrianised shopping street known as The Thoroughfare. The Cut, a centre for arts in the community, offers a whole range of arts and entertainment and is host to the Halesworth Arts Festival from 13-28 October. The Town Park hosts Gig in the Park every August; a showcase of local, national, and international musical talent.

Market day is every Wednesday.

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HAVERHILL Haverhill is a market town that dates back to Saxon times. Whilst most of its historical buildings were lost to the great fire on 14 June 1667, it does however retain one notable Tudor house (reportedly given to Anne of Cleves as part of her divorce from Henry VIII, and thus titled Anne of Cleves House) and many interesting Victorian buildings.

Haverhill is predominantly a modern and young town, with a small centre with a number of shops, including a retail quarter, and a leisure complex with a number of restaurants and a Cineworld. The town has a refurbished leisure centre with a state-of-the-art gym and swimming pool, and an Arts Centre that hosts a range of entertainments.

Haverhill also offers wonderful green spaces; the large recreation ground in the heart of the town is popular with all ages while there’s also the award-wining East Town Park.

IPSWICH Once a solid centre of maritime commerce and activity, the Ipswich ‘Docks’ has been transformed into the Ipswich ‘Waterfront’.

Much of the rich fabric of the past remains intact with sensitive renovations of several heritage dockland buildings including the delectable boutique style Salthouse Harbour Hotel and the imposing Old Custom’s House.

Meanwhile, a new wave of vibrant cafes, cosmopolitan restaurants, interesting shops and modern apartment blocks has washed in with the tide. Add this to the ever-changing skyline; the vista of visiting large sailing boats, Royal Navy ships, yachts and powerboats, it’s easy to see why Ipswich has become one of the most sought after destinations in the East.

Ipswich Maritime Festival | www.visitsuffolk.com

Ten minutes walk away is the town centre, which offers rich pickings in terms of its museums, galleries, theatres, parklands and high street shops. There’s also a great open-air market on the Cornhill on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, located right outside the refurbished Town Hall Galleries, which is well worth a visit.

Christchurch Mansion, a fine Tudor house set in its own beautiful park in the heart of the town, boasts the most important collection outside of London of works by Constable and Gainsborough. International pop acts, mainstream, fringe theatre and an unrivalled arts festival can all be found at venues such as The Regent Theatre, the Corn Exchange, DanceEast and the New Wolsey Theatre.

Of course, retail therapy is a must when in town. St Nicholas Street is ‘boutique paradise’, and there’s a thriving High Street and the Sailmakers Shopping Centre.

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LAVENHAM

LONG MELFORD

Lavenham is a joy to explore at any time of the year and looks as beautiful in the evening as it does during the day. The village has a proud history and the many magnificent buildings that remain are a testimony to the town having been the fourteenth wealthiest in England.

Long Melford is one of Suffolk’s most attractive villages. It has a long High Street - two and a half miles to be exact; the longest in England - populated by charming independent shops, vibrant art galleries, antique centres, cafes, restaurants, and, of course, typical Suffolk Inns. This, combined with beautiful architecture and amazing countryside, makes Long Melford a desirable stop for any visitor to Suffolk.

It ranks amongst the most beautiful of villages; set in lush green countryside it makes the ideal weekend getaway. The appearance of the town has changed little over the years, the buildings are fascinating, some are huge and imposing, others are tiny and crooked. The townspeople have even removed the telegraph poles and buried the wires underground to preserve the village’s Tudor appearance.

Lavenham has been described as ‘the finest medieval town in England’ and no fewer than 300 of its buildings are listed as being of architectural or historical interest. One of these is the Church of St Peter and St Paul, which is among the finest in East Anglia, a magnificent church with a spire of 141 feet.

The local Lavenham Sinfonia gives regular concerts here on Sundays. Other buildings of interest that are open to the public include The Guildhall of Corpus Christi. This is a 16th-century timber framed building overlooking the market place and houses a museum offering insights into local life.

Little Hall is a lovely example of a 15th-century hall house with a crown-post roof. Much recommended is a walk along the disused railway line, followed by a wander through the gift and antique shops, then a spot to eat in one of the many fabulous tea rooms, pubs and fine-dining restaurants scattered around the town. The Angel, believed to be Lavenham’s oldest inn is great for a bite to eat and the renowned Swan is perfect for afternoon tea.

There are plenty of interesting sights, including Holy Trinity Church, a wool church dating from the 15th century. It contains several noteworthy memorials and brasses, and just outside is the brick hospital, founded in 1573 as an almshouse for twelve poor men and two poor women. There are also two Tudor mansions in close proximity.

Kentwell Hall is a romantic, completely moated, mellow redbrick mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. There are lots of events going on at the Hall, not least their famous Tudor re-creations, and you can have a guided tour of the house.

Melford Hall is a large Elizabethan house run by the National Trust, built of red brick around a quadrangle and ornamented with mitretopped turrets. Spend the afternoon strolling around the many art galleries, which Long Melford has become known for.

Long Melford is a true Suffolk gem. It has lots to offer the visitor, from historic buildings to contemporary fashions, and the food available throughout the village - from the butcher to the restaurants and pubs - will keep you sustained throughout your stay.

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STAYCATION, PAYCATION You’re familiar with the idea of the Staycation: holiday near home and enjoy the sights and scenery of the UK, and save on all the travelling, queues and hassle of going abroad.

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LOWESTOFT Located on the most easterly point of the British coast, Lowestoft provides an ideal holiday location for all ages. Lowestoft offers a mix of lively beaches, pleasant seaside walks and quality family attractions all set in a traditional seaside town.

This once flourishing fishing port is now renowned for the quality of its golden sandy beaches, which are considered to be some of the very best in Europe. The Victorian gardens provide the perfect surrounds to one of the east coasts highlights.

The town centre and seafront areas have seen some changes over recent years to make them more accessible to visitors. The improvements included the introduction of the Princess Royal Fountains, consisting of 74 individual water jets that provide the perfect attraction for children throughout the day and a visual spectacle in the evenings.

Lowestoft also offers a great shopping experience. The main town centre provides all the high street names, Kirkley offers a choice of independent stores whilst the High Street provides an opportunity to shop in one of the most interesting and historical parts of the town.

Those wishing to delve into Lowestoft’s rich maritime history will be able to explore Heritage Quay and the Maritime Museum. There is also the opportunity to buy some local fish from one of the merchants or from the local smoke house.

Heading away from the beach, the town is surrounded by a wide choice of attractions, ranging from museums, wildlife parks, piers and other facilities that will keep all visitors of all ages entertained.

The Marina Theatre in the town provides a number of high quality acts throughout the year. Those wishing to be a little more active may decide to follow the coastal walk, either on foot or on horseback, and for the more adventurous kite boarding is also available.

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MILDENHALL Mildenhall is an attractive medieval market town surrounded by the River Lark.

The town centres on the Market Place with its distinctive 16th century hexagonal Market Cross - used for hanging criminals years ago - and the Town Pump. The parish pump still stands in the market place, as a reminder that piped water was not available until the 1940s.

A market is held here every Friday and was established by Royal Charter in 1412. During the Second World War, Mildenhall was an important bomber base and since 1950 has been home to the United States Air Force, fast becoming one of the most important American installations in this country.

St Mary’s Church is one of the finest in Suffolk and the town has a good number of restaurants, shops and other amenities.

Mildenhall Stadium hosts greyhound, stock car and speedway racing.

NEEDHAM MARKET Needham Market is a small historic town set in the Gipping Valley. Once a thriving wool town, the onset of the plague resulted in the town being ‘chained’ off from the outside world between 1663-65 to isolate it and contain the disease. Despite the plan succeeding, the town still lost two-thirds of its population and did not recover for some two hundred years until the arrival of the railway. The town has two road names linked to the plague: Chainhouse Road, named after the chains that ran across the East end of the town, and The Causeway, a modern variation of ‘the corpseway’, so called because of the route that plague victims were transported out of town.

The town boasts many unusual, independent and specialist shops, and fine Georgian and Tudor architecture.

NEWMARKET Whether you’re a devoted horseracing fan or just a lover of beautiful English towns, Newmarket is sure to appeal. It has long been considered the birthplace of thoroughbred horseracing since successive Royal Family members came to appreciate the flat land as an ideal location for galloping their horses.

Racing’s early administrative body, The Jockey Club, created its home here. If this is your particular fascination, you’ll be pleased to find the National Stud here, the National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art, Tattersalls and also the impressive Newmarket Racecourses themselves, which welcomes big-names in music at its summer concerts, ‘Newmarket Nights’.

There are other places of interest for the curious visitor too. Newmarket boasts impressive features such as the grand Clock Tower on the High Street, the King Edward VII Memorial Gardens, the War Memorial Gardens and the elegant Cleveland House in Old Station Road.

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ORFORD Steeped in history, Orford is an attractive town dominated by its impressive castle, built in the 12th century by Henry VII for coastal defence.

The town has plenty to offer those passing through, with excellent walks and cycle rides for the more outdoorsy, and plenty of good restaurants, pubs and tearooms for those simply looking to relax and soak up the surrounding history.

Brick and timber buildings line the streets to the little quayside, where there are boat trips to Orford Ness Europe’s largest vegetated shingle spit.

The Reserve contains a variety of habitats including shingle, saltmarsh, mudflat, brackish lagoons and grazing marsh. It provides an important location for breeding and passage birds as well as for the coastal shingle flora and wildlife (including a large number of nationally rare species).

Visitors can follow a 5.5 mile route, which can be walked in total or in part (the full walk involves walking on shingle). Don’t leave without trying the locally cultivated oysters!

SAXMUNDHAM Saxmundham is a popular market town on the River Fromus at the centre of Suffolk’s Heritage Coastal region. Saxmundham, or ‘Sax’ as it is known locally, has many local shops and businesses, sports and leisure facilities. There’s also a market every Wednesday. It’s home to RSPB Minsmere; a fantastic coastal nature reserve that’s perfect for families. There’s something for everyone to enjoy including long and short walks, wildlife, a café and Wild Zone natural play area where the kids can let off steam. (www.rspb.org.uk/Minsmere)

PIN MILL On the banks of the River Orwell the hamlet of Pin Mill is a haven of tranquility, loved by artists, walkers and birdwatchers.

The 17th-century Butt & Oyster Inn is so close to the river that it can serve pints of ale through the window to yachtsmen at high tide.

Pin Mill was the setting for Arthur Ransome’s book ‘We Didn’t Mean to Go to Sea’, one of a series of children’s books penned by the author.

The wild Konik Horses at Minsmere RSPB Reserve | www.visitsuffolk.com

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smart casual clothing for men & ladies 11 Market Place, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6EA Open 7 Days | 01502 722372 | info@dennyofsouthwold.co.uk

Boating Lake Tearoom This Quirky little Tea Room is big on giving you a warm and friendly welcome, with Breakfasts, tempting Lunches, Snacks and the scrumptious Afternoon Cream Teas all served to you by our friendly staff. Our homemade Scones, Soups, Cakes and Sandwiches are all made fresh to order and where and when possible local produce and suppliers are used.

We have seating inside for 50 people and far more outside and can cater for Families, Groups, and Private Hire such as Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Mother and Toddler groups and Wakes, small Wedding Parties and Coach Parties.

Outside on the Boating Lake Veranda we have Lloyd Loom chairs for your comfort, sit and watch children in the paddleboats, or families having fun on the crazy golf. On the Rear lakeside veranda there is seating overlooking the beautiful lake and Islands, the perfect location for Bird watching or chilling out watching the world go by.

To enquire or make a booking call Penny or David 07771781739 Southwold Boating Lake & Tearoom, North Parade, Southwold, Suffolk IP18 6BN

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Facebook: SouthwoldBoatingLakeAndCafe Twitter: @boatinglake

SOUTHWOLD Southwold lies in the centre of an area of great natural beauty – a haven for the walker, the naturalist and the birdwatcher.

Situated on a hill that gently rises from the Blyth Valley, the town is virtually an island, being surrounded by the River Blyth to the south and Buss Creek to the north. This has enabled Southwold to retain its old world charm. The dramatic coastline and the town’s beautiful architecture make it a popular attraction throughout the year.

by the local – and world famous – Adnams Sole Bay Brewery. The Adnams stamp is everywhere and reflected in the cluster of great pubs in the area. The brewery can be found on East Green, which has both brewery and distillery tours available.

In the summer, Southwold’s sandy beaches are a huge draw and out of season some of its most charming elements can be enjoyed – cosy pub lunches, isolated walks or a quiet browse in its many antiques shops.

Southwold’s beach is immaculately kept and is a regular Blue Flag winner. The shore is famous for its rows of brightly coloured beach huts. These days they sell for the price of a small flat!

Southwold looks out over Sole Bay, scene of an inconclusive battle in 1672 between the combined British and French fleet and the Dutch fleet. The town was once known for its herring fishery, and today the attractive harbour is still home to a little fleet of boats.

Quiet and full of character, Southwold is a refreshingly unspoilt coastal resort. In the town centre there’s an exciting selection of interesting and independent shops, selling antiques, crafts and gifts. There’s also a variety of art galleries, boutiques and jewellers scattered around the town.

As you’d expect, first-class seafood can be found in the town’s many fine restaurants and pubs, most of which serve ales brewed

The Swan Hotel, which dominates the Market Place, is not only an excellent place to stay but has a highly regarded restaurant.

To discover something of Southwold’s maritime heritage visit the Sailors’ Reading Room, on East Cliff overlooking the sea, where the exhibits include ship models, figureheads and early photographs of past seafaring local heroes. There’s more maritime history to be found in The Alfred Corry Lifeboat Museum.

Visitors who climb the winding lighthouse stairs are rewarded with fantastic views. Those wanting to take to the sea themselves can take the Coastal Voyager sea trip from the harbour.

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Gainsborough’s House Museum

Open: Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 11am to 5pm T: 01787 372958 | www.gainsborough.org

STOWMARKET

Foster traction engine, Museum of Rural Life, Stowmarket | www.visitsuffolk.com

A town at the geographical heart of rural Suffolk and on the River Gipping, Stowmarket was originally an agricultural market town.

SUDBURY

Industry developed upon the canalization, in 1793, of the River Gipping bringing new prosperity to the town. Now the old towpath forms an enjoyable footpath through the Gipping Valley, from Stowmarket railway station to the docks at Ipswich.

Set in the heart of the Stour Valley, the market town of Sudbury was for centuries a centre of the weaving and silk industries. The painter Thomas Gainsborough was born here and a fine collection of his paintings can be seen in his house, which also has a contemporary art gallery and a print workshop offering summer courses.

Even though it is growing in size and population, Stowmarket hasn’t lost its charm, with a variety of listed buildings typical of Suffolk’s towns and villages, most notably St Peter and St Mary’s Church.

Not to be missed is the Museum of East Anglian Life, one of the UK’s leading open-air museums.

The Quay Theatre puts on a lively programme of events and close by visitors can enjoy a lazy boat trip on the River Stour followed by a cream tea at the restored 18th-century Granary.

There is still a traditional market, a farmers’ market on the last Friday of each month plus a lovely range of shops to explore.

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• Woodland dens • Family-friendly café • Less than an hour’s drive

/RSPBMinsmere

RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast, IP17 3BY Girl image by Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com), dragonfly by Fotolia and ladybird by iStock.

The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. 851-1289-16-17.

People queueing for The Ferry at Walberswick | www.visitsuffolk.com

THORPENESS

WALBERSWICK

If there was ever a village that deserved to be called ‘fantastic’, it is Thorpeness. Built at the start of last century by Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, a wealthy and eccentric Scottish barrister with a penchant for mock Tudor and Jacobean architecture, Thorpeness has a number of unconventional properties under its belt.

Walberswick is a village across the River Blyth from Southwold. It is one of Suffolk’s top tourist attractions with half of the properties in the village being holiday homes.

Originally a private fantasy holiday village, Ogilvie ingeniously disguised the village’s water tower as an overgrown house, the striking ‘House in the Clouds’, lest it offend the eye. ‘Peter Pan’ fans of all ages can find J M Barrie’s work realised at the Meare boating lake where islands and coves are given names taken from the book. Children are able to play in the Pirate’s Lair and Wendy’s Home, with boats available to rent in order to enjoy the Meare in all its quirkiness. After an afternoon’s boating enjoy a meal and explore the stalls at the Thorpeness Brasserie and Emporium. In August the Meare hosts the Thorpeness Regatta, attracting visitors looking to enjoy the numerous boat races and impressive fireworks display.

The village and surrounding beach and marshland have long attracted residents drawn from the arts, film and media.

Considering its size, an inordinate number of British celebrities own holiday homes in the village including Emma Freud and her husband Richard Curtis.

The village is the setting for Esther Freud’s novel, The Sea House, thinly disguised as ‘Steerborough’ - presumably a coded reference, or in-joke, towards one-time resident, Philip Wilson Steer.

From 1981 to 2010 the village hosted The British Open Crabbing Championship.

Visitors can still join in the fun, simply set yourself up on a jetty or footbridge and see what you can catch! The village has tearooms, restaurants, public houses, an art gallery, original crafts and gift shops.

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Hidden treasure for all to enjoy Ufford Park Woodbridge

A warm welcome and fantastic views await you at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa. Open to guests, members & non-members, our family-friendly hotel boasts a fantastic 18 hole, par 71 golf course (suitable for all abilities), thermal suite spa, health club, swimming pool, Congo Rapids Adventure Golf Course and delicious locally sourced food served all day.

Everyone is welcome, even your four-legged best friend.

Why not pop in for a Paddy and Scott’s coffee, and a piece of homemade cake?

We would love to see you.

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road|Woodbridge|Suffolk|IP12 1QW

One of East Anglia’s oldest commercial vineyards producing a range of White, Red and Rosé wines as well as Quality English Sparkling wines.

For more information, including full tasting notes, go straight to our online shop!

OPEN May to September - Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm For full contact details and to view our online shop, please visit our website:

www.shawsgate.co.uk

WOODBRIDGE The picturesque market town of Woodbridge effortlessly mixes the old with the new and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Whether it’s for a walk along the smooth River Deben overlooking Sutton Hoo, the ancient burial site of the Anglo Saxon Kings tucked across the river estuary or simply to enjoy one of the many cafes and eateries around the town, you’ll find plenty of reasons to return.

The town’s most well-known landmark is the white-boarded Tide Mill, which is neatly nestled between the boat builders, sail makers and chandlers still plying their wares. It may be one of the earliest mills in the UK - a mill was first recorded on this site in 1170 - but today’s building dates from the 18th century.

In town you will probably want to catch your breath in The Thoroughfare, a cornucopia of delicatessens, boutiques, and bookshops. One of the charms of the town are the tiny winding lanes bedecked on either side with medieval timbered

cottages, Georgian townhouses, and a plethora of cosy pubs.

Market Hill provides one of the best vantage points in town and it’s here that you’ll find Woodbridge Museum, which includes an excellent collection of memorabilia telling the intriguing story of the National Trust’s Sutton Hoo site amongst other things. Then there’s the Shire Hall to explore, built in 1575.

For a fun family day out, head to The Suffolk Punch Trust. With stables, a farm, pretty walks, heritage garden, museum and barn there’s plenty to discover. The Trust is dedicated to preserving the Suffolk Punch breed but also the skills of the people needed to handle these wonderful horses.

Families can get involved with a range of activities including stable demonstrations, feeding the resident pets, tractor trailer rides and arts and crafts.

There’s some lovely walks to enjoy too as this part of the South-East Suffolk coast is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, popular with dog walkers.

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Anglia Indoor Kart Racing

SUFFOLK ATTRACTIONS Adnams Brewery Adnams’ famous Suffolk beer has been brewed in Southwold for over 150 years and all around the town you will experience the influences of the brewery. The brewery itself is a mix of traditional buildings, with cutting edge installations where cask beer has been brewed since 1872. Take a guided tour of the brewery or the distillery for £20 per person.

Southwold. 01502 727225 www.adnams.co.uk

Abbey Gardens Beautiful public gardens surrounding the ruins of the Abbey. The gardens include a host of children’s play area, tennis courts, putting, bowling green, a tea shop and a riverside walk leading towards a local nature reserve known as No Man’s Meadows. Bury St Edmunds. www.abbey gardenfriends-burystedmunds.com

Aboard the Allen Gardiner Operating from the historic waterfront’s Ipswich Haven Marina in the Wet Dock, cruise the River Orwell down to the Port of Felixstowe, whilst enjoying fine food from an a la carte menu. 01473 558712. www.lady-florence.co.uk

Adventure Island Play Park Excellent purpose-built children’s indoor soft play centre. Pinbush Road, Lowestoft. 01502 519933. www.adventureislandplaypark.co.uk

Alton Water The largest reservoir in Suffolk offering fishing, sailing, windsurfing, picnic area, footpaths, water sports centre extension and visitor centre. Cycle hire available. Stutton, nr Ipswich. 01473 328408. www.altonwater.co.uk

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Indoor racing karts and exhilarating multi-level circuit, bringing the thrills of motorsport to all adrenaline-seekers. Ipswich.

01473 240087. www.angliakarting.com

The Amber Museum The UK’s only purpose-built museum dedicated to the history of amber. The museum has artefacts, carvings, jewellery and objets d’art; both modern and antique.

Southwold. 01502 723394. www.ambershop.co.uk

Beccles Lido Heated pool situated by the river Waveney.

Beccles. 01502 713297. www.beccleslido.com

Bentwaters Cold War Museum Museum housed in a command post or bunker on what was the USAF air base at RAF Bentwaters. Bentwaters Parks.

07588 877020. www.bcwm.org.uk

Africa Alive An award-winning attraction set in 100 acres of dramatic coastal parkland, where you can get close to the animals and discover the sights, sounds and smells of Africa. Home to more than 80 species of animals from around Africa. Lowestoft. 01502 740291. www.africa-alive.co.uk

Brandon Country Park 32 acres in the heart of the Brecks with walks, cycle and easy access trails. Brandon. www.brandoncountrypark.org.uk

The Brecks One of the great natural areas of Britain with over 370 square miles of forest, heathland and countryside. www.brecks.org

Carlton Marshes Over 100 acres of beautiful Suffolk grazing marsh, fens and peat pools to explore via waymarked trails. Carlton Colville, Lowestoft 01502 564250.

Christchurch Mansion A fine Tudor mansion built between 1548 and 1550 with later additions. A good collection of furniture, panelling, ceramics, clocks and paintings from the 16th-19th centuries.

Christchurch Park, Ipswich. 01473 433554. www.cimuseums.org.uk

Clare Castle Country Park Beautiful quiet space that contains the remains of the 13th century stone castle keep. The nature trail takes in the River Stour and the Railway Walk. Visitor Centre.

Maltings Lane. www.clarecastlecountrypark.co.uk

Coastal Voyager Fast exciting sea trips from the harbour.

Southwold Harbour Kiosk. 07887 525082. www.coastalvoyager.co.uk

The Seething Control Tower Museum Learn the fascinating history of this airfield, from the first flights in 1917 to the 1970s, and about the British and American airmen who worked, fought and died at Martlesham Heath. www.seethingtower.org

Deben Cruises Cruises on the River Deben for organised parties. The Quay, Waldringfield, Woodbridge. 01473 736260. www.debencruises.co.uk

Dunwich Heath Coastal Centre Enjoy wonderful walks and fabulous views at this site of specific interest within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dunwich.

01728 648501. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunwich-heath-and-beach

East Anglia Transport Museum A working museum where the past comes to life. Travel as often as you like on historic vehicles or take a trip on the narrow gauge railway. Chapel Road, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft. 01502 518459. www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk

Easton Farm Park Delightful working farm where you can learn all about the different animals, including lambs, ponies, Suffolk Punch Horses, piglets, rare breed cows and more. Chick nursery, adventure playground, pedal tractors, go karts, café and gift shop. Easton.

01728 746475. www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

Euston Hall Home for the Dukes of The Hall, it contains, among its many treasures, the famous collection of paintings of the court of Charles II and includes works by Van Dyck, Lely and Stubbs. Visitors are also invited to enjoy the tranquil gardens, the church and the river walk to the recently restored watermill.

Euston. 01842 766366. www.eustonhall.co.uk Euston Rural Pastimes The annual celebration of rural pursuits and agriculture featuring Traction and Stationary Engines, Classic and Vintage Cars, crafts and more. This year the event takes place on Sunday 10 June. www.eustonruralpastimes.org.uk

Electric Picture Palace Owned and run by Southwold Film Society, the Electric Picture Palace shows films in seasons throughout the year, with a short break between each season. Tours of the Palace are also available. Tour times vary week to week. They are usually at 2.30pm and last for 45 minutes to one hour. The cost is £6 adult, £3 child under 16. Blackmill Road, Southwold. 07815 769565. www.southwoldcinema.co.uk

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 25m pool, fitness suites, activity hall, bowls hall, soft play area and more. Seafront, Felixstowe. 01394 694600

Framlingham Castle A magnificent example of a late 12th century castle. The castle is notable for its curtain wall with mural towers, an early example of this design. Walk around the impressive wall-walk, explore the mere and admire

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Looking for a up GrEAT Gro Visit?

With discounts for pre-booked groups as well as talks and tours tailored to your needs, you could enjoy a great day out at the Museum of East Anglian Life www.eastanglianlife.co.uk

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.

Adults £7.50, Child £5.50, Family (2 plus 2) £18.00

www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk

Tel: 01277 364883 Email: mike@japarrish.com www.secretnuclearbunker.com

the fine castle gatehouse. Events are held throughout the year. Church St, Framlingham.

0370 3331181. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Fritton Lake A stretch of water where you can mess about on boats, children can enjoy the playground, forts and mini tractors, there’s nine-hole golf, fishing, pony rides and walks. Fritton, nr Lowestoft.

Gainsborough’s House Gainsborough’s House and garden is the birthplace of one of Britain’s greatest artists, Thomas Gainsborough R.A (1727-88). The Georgian fronted townhouse and exhibition gallery shows an outstanding collection of his paintings and has a changing programme of displays and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Sudbury.

01787 372958. www.gainsborough.org

Glemham Hall An elegant, red brick Elizabethan mansion surrounded by 300 acres of parkland.

The estate now hosts a variety of events including a country fair, open-air opera and theatre. Little Glemham. 07920 855041. www.glemhamhall.co.uk

Market Place, Hadleigh. 01473 822544. www.hadleightownhall.co.uk

Helmingham Hall Gardens Spectacular Grade 1 listed garden in the grounds of the 500-year-old house, Nr Stowmarket. 01473 890799. www.helmingham.com

High Lodge Sporting and leisure venue set in 100 acres of woodland, offering clay target shooting, a pay and play nine-hole golf course, fishing, holiday lodges, shop and more. HawWood, Hinton, 01986 784347. www.highlodge.co.uk

High Lodge Forest Centre Right at the heart of Thetford Forest, with over 70km of cycle trail, 20km of walks and a huge children’s Play Arena, it is perfect for families. Home to bike hire and Go Ape, High Lodge has all the facilities you need. Big summer music concerts in the forest. Open all year. Thetford. 0300 0674400. www.forestry.gov.uk/highlodge

Ipswich Witches Top speedway racing. Foxhall Stadium, Ipswich. www.ipswichwitches.co

Go Ape!

Ickworth House, Park and Gardens

Extreme tree-top challenge course - an amazing trail of nets, rope bridges, slides and trapezes high up in the trees. Brandon.

0845 094 9732. www.goape.co.uk

One of England’s most extraordinary houses.

The house is set in a Capability brown park and surrounded by an Italianate garden with a range of marked woodland walks, an adventure playground and picnic area. There’s a vineyard and plant centre, plus regular events. Horringer, nr Bury St Edmunds.

01284 735270. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

Greene King Brewery The visitor centre is full of interesting exhibits and displays about the brewery, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 763222. www.greeneking.co.uk

Hadleigh Town Hall & Guildhall A medieval timber-framed complex, Grade I listed dating from 15th century. There is a timbered guildroom, an old town hall which has a fine crown-post roof, a Georgian assembly room and a Victorian ballroom.

Small walled garden with medieval features.

Ipswich Museum This museum gives a fascinating insight into the town and surrounding area’s intriguing past. High Street, Ipswich. 01473 433551. www.cimuseums.org.uk/Ipswich-Museum

Jimmy’s Farm A working farm but also open for visitors seven days a week, there is plenty to do for

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a great family day out, including a nature trail, woodland walk, beautiful gardens, farm shop, adventure play area and field kitchen.

Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich 014736 04206. www.jimmysfarm.com

Kentwell Hall and Gardens Moated redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. Renowned for its incredible recreations of everyday Tudor life and of WWII daily life, along with events such as Scaresville at Halloween. The present owners’ efforts to restore the house and recover and extend the once noted gardens, add to any visit’s enjoyment. Long Melford.

01787 310207. www.kentwell.co.uk

Lackford Lakes This nature reserve has year round importance for birds, dragonflies and other wildlife. The visitor centre offers stunning views across the reserve and is an ideal place to start your visit.

Lackford, 01284 728541

Lady Florence River Cruises For a different fine dining experience, cruise the calms waters of the river Alde and Ore while enjoying a freshly prepared meal.

Orford Quay, Orford. 01473 558712. www.lady-florence.co.uk

Lavenham Guildhall of Corpus Christi

Main Street, Leiston. 01728 832189. www.longshopmuseum.co.uk

Lowestoft Family Bowl Indoor bowling, nine-hole mini-golf. Capital Estate, Rant Score, Whapload Road, Lowestoft. 01502 519200. www.richardsonsfamilybowl.co.uk

The Malthouse Project Restored old maltings, which dates back to the 17th Century. Risbygate Street, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 732550

Mannings Amusement Park This fun park has been run by the Manning family since 1946. Traditional fairground rides and amusement arcades. Seafront, Felixstowe. 01394 282370. www.manningsamusements.co.uk

Mechanical Music Museum and Bygones Small music boxes, polyphons and organettes, larger street pianos and player organs, large fair organs, dance band and cafe organs plus a number of unusual items and the Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ. Blacksmith Road, Cotton, 01379 783350. www.mechanicalmusicmuseum.co.uk

Melford Hall

One of the finest timber-framed Tudor buildings in Britain, with tearoom, shop and children’s guide. Market Place, Lavenham.

01787 247646. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Romantic Tudor mansion, home of the Hyde-Parker family. New interpretations, craft displays, special events.

Long Melford. 01787 379228. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/melford-hall

Leiston Abbey

Mid Suffolk Light Railway Museum

One of Suffolk’s most impressive monastic ruins of a 14th century abbey with a 16th century brick gatehouse. Leiston.

01728 831354. www.english-heritage.org.uk

The MSLR was a classic case of a railway built late in the great railway age that never paid its way. This example of quirky English history is remembered in Suffolk’s only railway museum. Themed open days held throughout the year. Brockford Station, Wetheringsett.

01449 766899, www.mslr.org.uk

Long Shop Museum Discover Leiston’s history and visit the home of the Garrett collection. An award-winning museum housed in the original Garrett works buildings. Four exhibition halls, resource centre, picnic garden and gift shop.

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Mildenhall Greyhound Racing Evening racing with up to four races per hour, every Tues and Fri. Mildenhall Stadium,

West Row, Mildenhall. 01638 711777. www.mildenhalldogs.co.uk

Orford Castle

Housed in the oldest domestic building open to the public in East Anglia, Moyse’s Hall dates back over 800 years. Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 757160. www.weststow.org/moyses-hall

The polygonal tower keep of Orford Castle stands beside the pretty town and former port which Henry II also developed here in the 1160s. An 18-sided drum with three square turrets, and a forebuilding reinforcing its entrance, the keep was built to a highly innovative design. Orford. 0370 3331181. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Museum of East Anglian Life

Orwell River Cruises

Open-air museum in 75 acres of beautiful countryside. Explore nearly 3km of woodland and riverside nature trails, learn about fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional Gypsy culture and discover splendidly restored historic buildings. Plus steam engines, animals, including Suffolk Punch horses, and more. Stowmarket. 01449 612229. www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

Enjoy the sights and scenes of the beautiful River Orwell from the comfort and tranquillity of the Orwell Lady – a custom-built river cruisersailing from Ipswich Wet Dock to Harwich Harbour. Meander along the River Orwell enjoying a traditional homemade English Afternoon or a Suffolk Savoury Tea cruise on-board Orwell Lady. Cruises from Ipswich between May and September. Orwell Quay, Ipswich Wet Dock. 01473 258070. www.orwellrivercruises.co.uk

Moyse’s Hall Museum

Newmarket Racecourses One of the world’s greatest racetracks, steeped in history and offering top racing and an unbeatable experience on both its Rowley Mile and July Racecourses. Cambridge Road, Newmarket. 01638 675500. www.newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk

Newmarket Tours Palace House can arrange hour long tours of historic Newmarket, explaining in depth its associations with Royalty and the Sport of Kings. Newmarket. 0844 7489200. www.discovernewmarket.co.uk

Nowton Park 200 acres of beautiful Suffolk countryside landscaped over 100 years ago in typical Victorian style. Open all year.

Bury St Edmunds. 01284 757098. www.visitburystedmunds.co.uk/nowton-park

Oasis Camel Centre Farm Park that specialises in camels, llamas, alpacas, plus a pets corner, play areas, crazy golf, bouncy castle, walks and gift shop.

Orchard Farm, Halesworth.

07836 734748. www.oasiscamelpark.co.uk

Pakenham Water Mill Suffolk’s last working water mill, producing traditional stone ground flour. Beautiful setting with garden by the millpond, guided tours, tearoom, shop and special events.

Pakenham. 01284 724075. www.pakenhamwatermill.org.uk Palace House: National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art The National Heritage Centre is situated in King Charles II’s sporting palace and stables and spans five acres in the heart of Newmarket. It comprises the National Horseracing Museum, a national gallery of British Sporting Art, and a chance to meet former racehorses and learn what they do after racing, in the flagship home of Retraining of Racehorses. There is so much to see and do for all the family. Palace House, Palace Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8EP. 01638667314. www.Palacehousenewmarket.co.uk

Pleasurewood Hills Set within 59 acres of enclosed coastal parkland and just 10mins from the seaside

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town of Great Yarmouth, the theme park is a great family day out. Enjoy thriling rides, family rides, entertainment and attractions, including wonderful shows with sea lions, parrots, acrobats and clowns. New features added regularly. Corton, Lowestoft.

01502 586000. www.pleasurewoodhills.com

River Stour Trust Boat trips from Sudbury to Great Henny and vice versa on Edwardian style electric launch with a traditional canopy or a pontoon-style boat. Take in lunch at the delightful Henny Swan. The Granary, Quay Lane, Sudbury. 01787 313199. www.riverstourtrust.org

RSPB Minsmere A nature reserve where visitors can see the huge range of birds that pass along the Suffolk coast. Saxmundham. 01728 648281. www.rspb.org.uk

RSPB Havergate Island The island is famous for its breeding avocets and terns. The boat trip to the island adds to the interest of your day out. Orford Quay.

01394 450732. www.rspb.org.uk

RSPB Lakenheath Fen A wetland area filled with life: marsh harriers, hobbies, bearded tits and warblers.

Lakenheath. 01842 863400

RSPB Wolves Wood One of the few remaining areas of an ancient woodland that used to cover much of East Anglia. Hadleigh. 01206 391153

St Edmundsbury Cathedral There has been a church on the site of Suffolk’s Cathedral for nearly 1,000 years. The last 40 years have seen several additions to the church and its associated buildings, culminating in the Millennium Project. Regular exhibitions and concerts available. Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 748720. www.stedscathedral.co.uk

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Sandlings Forests The Sandlings covers woods in Rendlesham, Tangham and Dunwich. Rendlesham forest is the main area for recreation and there are various picnic sites and recreation areas.

There are three circular walks including disabled trails and forest cycle trails and an adventure playground. Nr Woodbridge.

Saxtead Green Postmill This corn mill was one of many built in Suffolk from the late 13th century. Though milling ceased in 1947, it is still in working order. Climb the stairs to various floors, which are full of fascinating mill machinery. However, due to conservation works, Saxtead Green Post Mill will be closed until further notice. Saxtead Green. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Somerleyton Hall & Gardens A Jacobean Manor with 12 acres of beautiful gardens with famous 1846 Yew Tree Maze.

Guided tours of the hall, garden trail, walled garden and special events. Somerleyton, Lowestoft. 01502 734901. www.somerleyton.co.uk

South Pier Leisure Complex Ten-pin bowling, amusement arcades, luxury casino and more. Royal Plain, Lowestoft.

01502 512793. www.thesouthpier.co.uk

Southwold Lighthouse Enjoy a tour of this marvellous operational landmark, first lit in 1889. Stradbroke Road.

01255 245156. www.trinityhouse.co.uk

Southwold Maize Maze A giant puzzle of pathways within eight acres of maize; a real brain-teaser that will test your navigational skills to the limit.

Every year there’s a new design. Plus play and picnic area. Old Hall Farm, Reydon.

07801 065845. www.southwoldmaizemaze.co.uk

Southwold Pier Southwold Pier is one of the finest examples of a Pier to be found in the British isles. From

traditional fish and chips in the Promenade Café to mouthwatering menus in the Boardwalk and The Clockhouse. Plus gift shop, children’s shop and lifestyle store, amusements and more. North Parade, Southwold. 01502 722105. www.southwoldpier.co.uk

Snape Maltings Visit this remarkable collection of redeveloped Victorian industrial buildings for world-class concerts and events, distinctive independent shops, cafes, galleries, walks and abundant wildlife, all set against a breathtaking expanse of reeds, water and sky. It is home to the flagship Aldeburgh Festival and the folk, world music and jazz of the Snape Proms. Snape, nr Aldeburgh.

01728 688303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk

Sutton Hoo One of Britain’s most important and atmospheric archaeological sites, burial ground of the Anglo-Saxon kings of East Anglia. Explore the exhibition hall which tells the compelling story of early English history, The Royal Burial Mounds and Tranmer House.

You can also enjoy sandlings heathland and woodland walks. Events are held throughout the year. Nr Woodbridge. 01394 389700. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo

Suffolk Owl Sanctuary A delightful place to visit to watch, study or simply enjoy the Owls and other birds of prey. There are over 60 raptors at the centre, all housed in spacious aviaries and flying free in narrated flying displays or demonstrations plus a mini-maze. Stonham Aspal.

03456 807 897. www.owl-help.org.uk

The Suffolk Punch Trust The Trust is dedicated to preserving the Suffolk Punch breed but also the skills of the people needed to handle these wonderful horses. Visit the stables where you can meet some of The Colony Stud’s star characters - the horses and foals. There’s also a farm, Heritage Garden, walks, activities and cafe.

01394 411327. www.suffolkpunchtrust.org

Thornham Walks Twelve miles of footpaths through the woodland, farmland and parkland of the Thornham Estate. Red House Yard, Thornham Magna, Eye. 01379 788345

The Thornham Walled Garden Restored Victorian glasshouses in the idyllic setting of a two-acre walled garden with fruit trees, wide perennial borders, collection of East Anglian geraniums and fern house.

01379 788700. www.beyondthewall.org.uk

Thorpeness Windmill This working mill dates from 1803 and is a visitor centre for Suffolk coast and heaths area of outstanding natural beauty. Uplands Road, Thorpeness.

Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure A working farm and a diverse, multi award-winning equestrian leisure centre.

Attractions include an animal collection and their foals, as well as Camelot the Camel, Muffin the Mule and other animal friends, as featured many times on television. Wickham Market, Woodbridge. 01728 746916 www.valleyfarm.co.uk

Waveney River Centre A range of vessels available for hire from rowing boats and canoes to luxury day cruisers. A great way to take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful stretch of water.

Overnight accommodation also available.

Burgh St Peter, Beccles. 01502 677343. www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk

Waveney River Tours River trips from Oulton Broad to a number of destinations along the southern Broads. Selfdrive day boats available for hire. Mutford Lock, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft. 01502 574903 www.waveneyrivertours.com

West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village A reconstructed Anglo-Saxon village built

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on an original settlement site, giving visitors the opportunity to touch and experience Anglo-Saxon houses as we imagine them to have been 1,500 years ago. Visitors can also see the archaeological objects excavated from the site on display in a specially built centre. West Stow. 01284 728718 www.weststow.org/Anglo-Saxon-Village

West Stow Country Park 125-acre country park with a wide range of Breckland habitats - heath, woodland, river and a lake. There are nature trails, walks, bird hides and a bird feeding/viewing area, visitor centre, café, shop, picnic areas and adventure playground. Icklingham Road, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds.

01284 728718. www.weststow.org

Enjoy activities such as offroad driving, karting and clay pigeon shooting to name a few! Chippenham Road, Kennett, Newmarket. 01638 751918. www.wildtracksltd.co.uk

Woodbridge Tide Mill By the early 1950s Woodbridge was home to the only surviving tidal mill in the country.

It regularly grinds high quality wholemeal flour when conditions are suitable, and at most low tides the machinery will turn. It affords a fascinating and educational glimpse into our industrial and technological past.

Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge. 01394 388202. www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk

Woodbridge Museum

Wildtracks Off Road Activity Park

Local history museum.

Market Hill, Woodbridge. 01394 380502. www.suffolkmuseums.org

Purpose-built offroad activity park dedicated to a range of fun outdoor events for the public and corporate entertainment market.

Image: Sunset at Southwold by Nicola Pursey

WHAT’S ON? 7-8 Apr INK Festival Halesworth Cut Theatre inkfestival.org

23-24 Jun Dragon Fest West Stow, Bury St Edmunds, IP28 6HG www.weststow.org

21-22 Apr Woodbridge Mind Body Spirit Festival Woodbridge Community Hall, IP12 4AU www.lifearts.co.uk

23-Jun Great East Swim Alton Water Sports Centre www.suffolksport.com

6 May & 12 Aug Beccles Antiques Street Market Beccles Town Centre 12-May Into the Woods ‘A Pirate’s Ball’ Thorington, IP17 3RB www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 12 May - 3 Jun Suffolk Walking Festival Various locations www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk 18-21 May 1940s Weekend Town Centre, Lavenham www.discoverlavenham.com 18-27 May Bury Festival Various venues, Bury St Edmunds www.buryfestival.co.uk 26-28 May Framlingham Gala Fest Framlingham Castle, IP13 9BP www.framlinghamgalafest.co.uk 30-31 May Suffolk Show Trinity Park, Ipswich www.trinityparkevents.co.uk 31 May - 2 Jun Red Rooster Euston Hall www.redrooster.org.uk 8-24 Jun Aldeburgh Festival Various venues www.aldeburgh.co.uk 8-10 Jun Homegrown Festival Church Farm, Barrow homegrownfest.co.uk 10-Jun The Taste of Sudbury Food & Drink Festival St. Peter’s Church, Sudbury www.tasteofsudbury.co.uk

21-Jun Suffolk Day 2018 Various venues and locations www.visitsuffolk.com/blog/Suffolk-Day.aspx 12-15 Jul Latitude Festival Henham Park, Southwold www.latitudefestival.com 21-22 Jul Jimmy’s Festival Jimmy’s Farm, Wherstead, IP9 2AR www.jimmysfestival.co.uk 27-29 Jul Felixstowe Carnival www.felixstowecarnival.org 29-Jul Suffolk Dog Day Helmingham Hall Estate www.suffolkdogday.com 1 Aug - 1 Sep Snape Proms Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh www.aldeburgh.co.uk 11-Aug East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival Oulton Broad, Lowestoft www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk 17-19 Aug FolkEast Glemhall Hall, Woodbridge www.folkeast.co.uk 18-20 Aug Aldeburgh Carnival www.aldeburghcarnival.com 26-27 Aug The Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival Town Centre, Bury St Edmunds www.burystedmundsfestivals.com 24-26 Aug Maui Waui Festival Peakhill Farm, Theberton www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 22-23 Sep The Woodbridge Shuck Whisstocks Quayside woodbridgeshuck.co.uk

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TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES & OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL CONTACTS

Bury St Edmunds Charter Square St, IP33 3FD Tel: 01284 764667 visit-burystedmunds. co.uk Felixstowe TIC Beach Hut, Undercliff Road Tel: 01394 276770 visitfelixstowe.org.uk

Hadleigh TIC Hadleigh Library Tel: 01473 823778 visithadleighsuffolk. co.uk Ipswich TIC St Stephen’s Lane Tel: 01473 258070 allaboutipswich.com Lavenham TIC Lady Street Tel: 01787 248207 discoverlavenham.com

Newmarket TIC The Guineas Centre Tel: 01638 719749

USEFUL WEBSITES: discoversuffolk.org.uk suffolkcoastal.gov.uk

Stowmarket TIC Crowe Street Tel: 01449 676800

choosewoodbridge.co.uk visitsuffolk.com

Woodbridge TIC Station Buildings Tel: 01394 382240

southwoldtouristinfor mation.co.uk visit-aldeburgh.co.uk lovelowestoft.co.uk snapemaltings.co.uk

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The Lady Rothschild Holiday Houses

Country Estate Luxury Holiday Rental Houses Spectacular self-catering holiday houses located on the famous Ashton Estate nr. Oundle surrounded by wildflower meadows, rolling farmland and magical woodlands. The houses are finished with an emphasis on quality, in a style that is both comfortable and elegantly modern. Perfect for family get-togethers, celebrations, wedding groups and short breaks.

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

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