Eastlife December 2018 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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One and two bedroom bungalows built exclusively for the over 55s with prices from £180,995 Do you want to live in a real community? The Croft at Baston,

Mayfield Gardens (off Chesham Drive), Baston, Lincolnshire PE6 9QW Telephone 07917 761020 Sales office open: Saturday to Tuesday 10am – 5pm Email: thecroftatbaston@larkfleethomes.co.uk

www.larkfleethomes.co.uk

3277 1118

77 18 1118

ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL

Settling Settlingin into toour ournew newhome homeand and lifestyle lifestyle

W W

e finally made the move. We have a new home and a new lifestyle – and both of them are just e finally madebe thebetter. move. We have a new home and a new lifestyle – and both of them are just great. Couldn’t great. Couldn’t be better.

They used to call us ‘empty nesters’ – the kids had Theyup used call us ‘empty – theinkids had grown andto left home so wenesters’ were living a house grown up as and home with so wea were living in a house twice as big weleft needed garden to match. It we needed garden to match. It wastwice all a as bitbig tooasmuch to look with after,a to be honest. Taking all atime bit too to look after, to be honest. Taking toowas much andmuch energy. too much time and energy. So, we moved to The Croft at Baston – a tranquil So, we movedBourne to The in Croft at Bastonand – a tranquil village between Lincolnshire the city of village between Bourne in Lincolnshire and the city of Peterborough. Peterborough. The second phase of The Croft has just opened. It is a Thenumber secondof phase The Croft opened.the It is a small new of homes whichhas sitsjust alongside small number of newextending homes which alongside the completed first phase, the sits community but completed first phase, extending the community but keeping it at a modest scale. keeping it at a modest scale. It is well located, too, close to the A15 for swift access to It is well located, too, close to the A15 for swift access to the cities of Peterborough and Lincoln, as well as nearby the cities of Peterborough and Lincoln, as well as nearby Bourne. And if we don’t want to use the car, the frequent Bourne. And if we don’t want to use the car, the frequent bus service provides an easy alternative. bus service provides an easy alternative.

All the homes here have been designed to need minimal All the homes here have been designed to need minimal ongoing maintenance. It means that we benefit from ongoing maintenance. It means that we benefit from the security of property ownership without the concerns the security of property ownership without the concerns of property upkeep – and the garden is a lot smaller so of property upkeep – and the garden is a lot smaller so there’s less mowing and weeding! there’s less mowing and weeding! The bungalows are located around attractive walkways The bungalows are located around attractive walkways and gardens, creating a pleasant residential environment. and gardens, creating a pleasant residential environment. The village itself has a number of shops and two The village itself has a number of shops and two excellent excellentpubs pubswith withrestaurants. restaurants. We Wehave havebenefitted benefittedfinancially financiallyasaswell. well.We Wesold soldthe thebig big house housefor fora aprice pricethat thatwas wasa avery verypleasant pleasantsurprise surprise(the (the estate estateagent agentsaid saiditsitslocation locationnear nearLondon Londonhelped helpedto to push pushupupthe thevalue) value)and andwe wespent spentmuch muchless lessthan thanthat thaton on our ournew newhome homeininBaston. Baston.

Now Nowwe’re we’rewondering wonderingwhat whattotodo dowith withall allthis thismoney moneywe we have haveininthe thebank. bank.Not Notthat thatwe’re we’reshort shortofofideas! ideas!The Thetable table is iscovered coveredwith withbrochures brochuresfor forholidays, holidays,cruises cruisesand andnew new TheThe whole development is designed to to provide over-55s whole development is designed provide over-55s cars. cars. (whether retired or or stillstill working) with thethe independence (whether retired working) with independence We’ve of owning ourour own homes, combined with the benefits We’vedone doneallallthe theresearch researchon onthe theinternet, internet,of ofcourse, course, of owning own homes, combined with the benefits but of being part of aofcommunity of of people with a similar butI do I dolike likea aprinted printedbrochure brochuretotolook lookatatwhen whenwe’re we’re of being part a community people with a similar spending outlook on on life.life. spendingthis thisamount amountofofmoney. money.And Andthey theyare areaatopic topicof of outlook conversation conversationwith withour ourneighbours neighbours––we’ve we’venot notbeen beenhere here TheThe properties areare mostly one and two-bedroom properties mostly one and two-bedroom long longand andhave havealready alreadymade madesome somegood goodfriends. friends. bungalows. WeWe bought one of of thethe larger ones soso that wewe bungalows. bought one larger ones that have somewhere forfor thethe children to to stay when they visit. have somewhere children stay when they visit. Although AlthoughI am I amstill stillworking workingthere thereisisdefinitely definitelyaadifferent different They have already been down a couple of of times. And They have already been down a couple times. And pace paceand andstyle styleofoflife lifehere herewhich whichwill willbe beideal idealwhen whenII maybe we’ll have grandchildren to to stay in in future – who maybe we’ll have grandchildren stay future – who finally We finallyretire. retire. Welove loveit!it! knows? It’s It’s definitely worth having thethe spare room. knows? definitely worth having spare room.

The all-new A-Class. Just like you.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class features an interior that redeﬁnes the concept of modern luxury in the compact class. Demonstrated by MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) the touch-screen control, an innovative voice control system and augmented reality navigation revolutionises the way drivers can interact with the A-Class as your car learns who you are and intuitively updates your preferences.

Representative example

As standard, the 7.0-inch dual wide-screen cockpit displays driver related information to the instrument cluster along with navigation and entertainment information to the touch-screen to allow for a more immersive driving experience.

Total amount payable††

£27,785.89

Option to purchase fee

£10

A 180d SE 48 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement)

£269

On-the-road price

£24,200

Customer deposit

£4,788.89

Retailer deposit contribution Optional ﬁnal payment†

†

Fixed interest rate

£10,075 £19,411.11

Total amount of credit

Representative APR

£0

6.1% 5.95%

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class range: urban 41.5(6.8)-62.8(4.5), extra urban 60.1(4.7)-72.4(3.9), combined 51.4(5)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 108-141 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method. These are the “NEDC CO2 values” according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). For more information on these values and how they have been calculated please see www.mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions, chosen optional exras and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz A 180 d SE at £24,200 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, fist registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes- Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offer based on an A 180 d SE on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected A-Class models, between 1 October and 31 December 2018, registered by 31 March 2019. Guarantees may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100 Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 980800 Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900 www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz

PUBLISHER - Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696

EDITOR - Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904

editor

From the

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam

Dear Reader,

paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142

The countdown to Christmas is officially on! If you’re looking for festive fun to fill your weekends in the lead up to the big day, then keep reading, as this issue is stacked with seasonal events, gift ideas, food, travel and more.

SOCIAL MEDIA - Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539

WEB DEVELOPER - Craig Lewis craig@eastlife.co.uk

ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129

SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 01954 267088 Stewart Hedges - 01954 267164 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635

HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4EY

Special thanks to our contributors Gerla De Boer, Dolly Osborne, Sue Cooke, Katrina Otter, Collette Hoefkens, Wendy Howes, Ruth Essex, Mike Garside, Ben Aveling, Erica Roffe, Victoria Magnall, Jessica Hutchinson EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.

There’s something for everyone from winter wonderlands to choirs and carols; we’ve left no event off the list! If your children are more excited than Santa’s elves, read our guide to the best grottos across the region on page 53. It’s the most important meal of the year, so if you’ve taken on the task of cooking for the family on Christmas Day then turn to page 62 for how to cook the tastiest turkey. There’s also shopping, fashion and guides on spending Christmas by the coast. I’d like to thank everyone that has taken the time to read eastlife or comment, like and share on social media this year. The team and I appreciate each and every one of you! Wishing you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Emma Kemsley

Find us on online: /eastlifemag @eastlifemag

@eastmagazines www.eastlife.co.uk

On the

front cover: ‘The Market Square’ by Karen Pittaway. Karen grew up in Cambridge, but currently lives in Kenilworth. She admits to being strongly influenced by LS Lowry’s style and particularly his palette, which, by its limitations, gives a beautifully subdued hue to her paintings - a very English colouration. Prints & cards are available to buy at Lawson Gallery, Cambridge. www.karenpittaway.co.uk www.lawson-gallery.com

DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR EASTLIFE ON THE GO Available on the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Just search “eastlife”

eastlife.co.uk

On all orders placed before 31st December 2018

11-15 AROUND THE REGION

A round-up of monthly news and events

19-23 XMAS EVENTS

Enjoy a fun festive day out

29-31 GIFT GUIDE

Find the perfect present

39-41 XMAS SHOPPING The best Christmas shopping destinations in the East

46-49 DOG-FRIENDLY

Tails About Town and pet presents

51-55 LITTLE EAST

Mum’s the Word and Santa’s Grottos

57-63 FOOD & DRINK

News, the Cambridge Foodie & tasty turkey tips 66-69 HEALTH How to stay healthy through December and tips for sleeping

71-75 FASHION

Winter whites and personal styling

78-79 WEDDINGS

Top tips for choosing your venue

86-93 INTERIORS

Bargain Xmas decor, gardens and how to move with children

Contents

December 2018

95-97 ARTS

Monthly column and the latest news

99-111 SUFFOLK

A dreamy Christmas on the Suffolk Coast

113-121 NORFOLK

Secret Norfolk & a North Norfolk festive break

116 134-139 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Say hello to our new Cambridge columnist, Victoria Magnall

141-145 ESSEX

Christmas in Colchester, plus theatre listings

124-131 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Christmas in St Albans & Bedford

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SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Jess Gillam

Sir Bryn Terfel

The Hallé

Nicola Benedetti

Scottish Dance BBC Big Band: Nat King Cole 100 Theatre The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars

Box Office www.saffronhall.com 0845 548 7650

Eastlife Diary

Around

the region

Kids’ Christmas Party Friday 21 Dec 4 – 6pm Forest of Marston Vale MK43 0PR Get little ones into the Christmas spirit with a party full of festive fun. £10 per child, which includes a kids’ meal, squash and gift from Santa. Parental supervision is essential. www.marstonvale.org/Event/kidschristmas-party-2018

Life & Times 4 December at Chelmsford Civic Theatre Sir Chris will present his ‘Life & Times’ talk, covering his sixty years spent in the mountains. With original images and raw footage, this is a rare opportunity to hear about some of the greatest expeditions of the twentieth century, from one of the greatest mountaineers in history. To book tickets, contact the Box Office on 01245 606505 or www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres

Thursford Christmas Spectacular, 6 November – 23 December, 2pm & 7pm Thursford Collection, Thursford, Fakenham NR21 0AS This is the largest Christmas Spectacular in the country. An annual sell-out extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. It’s a fast moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year round favourites. www.thursford.com

An afternoon of Christmas Words and Music Maddermarket Theatre, 5-6 December Winter Wonderland at the Museum of Power, Langford Sunday 11 December Browse the Christmas stalls, take a spin around the ice rink and hop aboard a sleigh ride to see Santa. www.museumofpower.org.uk

Phoenix Players proudly present an afternoon of Christmas words and music. Join in singing all the well known Christmas songs including ‘White Christmas’, ‘The Christmas Alphabet’ and ‘Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer’ alongside wonderful Christmas poems and carols. You’ll also be served tea or coffee alongside a festive mince pie. Price £12. www.maddermarket.co.uk

Christmas Craft Workshop - A Natural Christmas for Children 1, 2, 8, 9 December 10.30am-12noon and 1pm2.30pm. Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB Families, get creative and into the Christmas spirit! Join the festive workshop and make some decorations to take away using a combination of natural materials including berries, twigs, pinecones, greenery and moss. You can even add a spot of Christmas sparkle too! Please be aware that, weather permitting, there will be a short walk at the start of the session to collect some materials from Holkham park. This session is suitable for children aged 3 and above. Pre-booking is essential, adult supervision required. Please bring a large cardboard box to take your child’s creations home in. £8.50 per child (3 – 12 yrs)

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Around region the

Late night Christmas Shopping in Cambridge If you need to grab those last minute gifts the Grand Arcade in Cambridge will be the place to be for that magical festive feeling as late night shopping hours start from 10 December and will run until 29 December. Grand Arcade’s stores will be open until 7pm Monday to Saturday and from 10.30am to 5pm on Sunday. On Wednesdays the stores will be open from 9am to 8pm as usual. Customers can park for less after 6pm with a reduced rate of £1.20 per hour. Throughout December there will be a festive choir or band performing Christmas favourites every weekend in the shopping mall. From wind bands to choirs, all the local favourites will be entertaining shoppers under the cover of twinkling Christmas decorations. From the Perse Wind Band, the Wintercomforter Choir to the Oakington Singers, there will be a host of local delights to bring the festive spirit to Cambridge.

RMG photography

Grand Arcade will be closed on Christmas Day and will re-open from 11am – 5pm on Boxing Day for customers to make the most of the Boxing Day sales.

New Year’s Day Dog Walk with BRoW4 Following the success of an event earlier this year, BRoW4, the non-profit fundraising group, will once again be hosting its ‘New Year’s Dog Walk’ on Sunday 6 January at Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. Returning for its fourth year, the walk will cover a two-mile scenic route around the park. The walks start from 10am, with another every hour on the hour until the last walk at 2pm, so you can choose when you’d like to take part. It costs £10 to register and included in that fee is hot refreshments to warm you up when the walk is over. Dogs will also get a treat when the walk is finished. The money raised will be split equally and donated to BRoW4’s chosen four dog charities; the Dogs Trust, Canine Partners, Medical Detection Dogs and Therapy Dogs Nationwide. You also have the option to raise sponsorship money for any dog charity of your choice – get in touch for a sponsorship form! You don’t have to have a dog to take part, you can use it as an excuse to burn off some of the Christmas calories. If you don’t want to take part in the walk, there will also be a wide variety of stalls in the Countryside Centre, which will be open between 10am and 3pm. For more information about BRoW4 visit www.brow4.com

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We put customers at the heart of everything that we do. Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital.

We offer fast access to experts who can provide a diagnosis and treatment. Don’t wait. Get in touch now. Whether you’re insured or want to pay for yourself, don’t just go private, go personal. Our services include: • Breast Care

• Gastroenterology

• Cataracts/Eyes

• Hernia Repair

• Cardiology

• Men’s Health

• Children’s Services

• Orthopaedics/Sports Injuries

• Cosmetic Surgery

• Varicose Veins

• Ear, Nose & Throat

• Women’s Health

Don’t wait. Get in touch now. For more information and to find out about our open events: 01277 886 706 Brentwood.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/brentwood

Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Shenfield Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 8EH

Parker’s Tavern launches afternoon tea It’s the ultimate British tradition and where better to tuck into finger sandwiches and scones than Parker’s Tavern. The Cambridge restaurant will be drawing on the city’s history and chef Tristan Welch’s playful signature style to create the ‘Historical Afternoon Tea’, which will be served in the Library at the University Arms, complete with a roaring fire, perfect for escaping the cold this December. When creating the menu, Tristan was inspired by Cambridge and the long list of legendary academics that have made their mark in the city. Every dish on the menu has an interesting story behind it, or pays homage to an exciting moment in the history of Cambridge. Savory treats on the menu include a trio of sandwiches which have been inspired by the 4th Earl of Sandwich, who invented his namesake afternoon tea staple. Other savory delights include Crayfish Pastry Boats, inspired by the famous Oxford vs. Cambridge boat race born in 1829, made with puff pastry and fresh crayfish. In addition, Musks Sausage Rolls are served warm and

Australian homeware brand opens in Cambridge

made with meat from Cambridge’s finest butchers, Musks of Newmarket (also the Queen’s go-to for the royal breakfast table). Afternoon Tea at Parker’s Tavern costs from £33 per person. Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance. www.parkerstavern.com

well as collections, Cambridge residents will have access to an even bigger range of products and brands.

There’s a new ‘House’ on the block in Cambridge. Homewares and kitchen specialists, House, have opened one of their new UK stores in the Grand Arcade Cambridge. The Cambridge House store will offer more than 4,000 products including cookware, bakeware, glassware, kitchen gadgets, small electrical appliances, knives, table linens and accessories – perfect if you have a foodie to buy for this Christmas. With online ordering available in store, as

The store is part of the UK rollout. A store opened at intu Chapelfield centre in Norwich in August, and since the launch in Cambridge, others have opened in Westfield Stratford city and Bromley The Glades. www.houseUK.com

Local artist designs charity Christmas cards to support cancer research in dogs Norfolk-based award-winning wildlife and animal artist, Yvonne Lamden Cooper, is supporting the Animal Health Trust (AHT) this Christmas by using her talents and passion for animals to create two Christmas card designs to support the charity’s canine cancer research. Yvonne primarily works with pastel and charcoal and spent weeks working on two designs for the AHT’s Christmas cards. ‘Who Me?’ is of a cheeky Golden Retriever unwrapping a stolen present, and ‘Winter Fun’ is of a gorgeous chestnut horse galloping through the snow. The Christmas cards are sold in packs of 10 for £3.99 and can be ordered by calling the AHT on 01638 555648. 100% of the profit generated from the card sales will support the AHT’s vital cancer research work. In addition, both original pieces of artwork will be sold through the AHT to raise even more funds for the cancer research team, which is led by Dr Mike Starkey, Yvonne will also make a donation to the AHT from every piece of newly-commissioned artwork she does. For further details about pet portraits contact yvonnelamdencooper@tiscali.co.uk and mention the AHT.

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NW CINDERELLA 168x240 advert.indd 1

22/11/2018 14:47

A warm welcome

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At Clayburn Court care home, we understand that we are part of a wider community. We also understand how important it is for all of us to share, to talk and to feel safe and secure. That is why we are reaching out to older people within the community and inviting you into our home to enjoy a warm meal and some good company. Pr�u�� -f��-�r�ﬁ�. Clayburn Court care home Clayburn Road, Peterborough, PE7 8LB If you, or someone you know, would beneﬁt from this then please call us for more details on 0808 102 4991 or visit ClayburnCourt.co.uk Rated Sept 2017

Good

CC East Life 240x168 121118.indd 1

09/11/2018 13:41:54

We would like to wish you all Merry Christmas! Open all year from 10am

For more information please visit

www.thrigbyhall.com - 01493 369477 Thrigby Hall, Filby, Great Yarmouth NR29 3DR

o, ho, ho, it’s time to get festive. The magic of Christmas is spreading across the region with markets, dazzling light displays, cosy pop ups, ice rinks and more. Read our guide to winter in the East. German Christmas Market at Battlesbridge,

The Big Skate 24 November – 13 January The Parade, Watford, Hertfordshire Set in The Parade, families can relish in the magic of Christmas, as Watford Borough Council’s Big Skate returns for its fifth year. After whizzing around the ice warm up at the ski lodge bar. watfordbigevents.co.uk

8 November – 23 December Meadow Croft Garden Centre, Woodham Rd, Battlesbridge, Wickford SS11 7QU This year there’s German beer, Gluhwein and traditional market stalls, manned by teams in costume. Tuck into festive food, purchase gifts and decorations, and get into the seasonal spirit! www.meadow-croft.co.uk/events/german-market

Tunnel of Light, 15 November – 5 January, Hay Hill, Norwich, NR2 1QX Returning for its third year with glittering new sequences, Norwich’s Tunnel of Light will once again thrill the senses with its 45-meters long, 4 meters high and 6 meters wide tunnel made from 50,000 pulsating LEDs. As well as all the usual colours and thrills, new for 2018 visitors can experience a James Bondesque sequence with speeding colours firing through the tunnel as well as a sequence giving the illusion of splashing, cascading water with waves rolling high above your head. It’s free to visit. www.norwichatchristmas.co.uk

The North Pole, 17 November - 6 January Parker’s Piece, Cambridge Get into the festive spirit, whatever the weather, and skate in style at The North Pole Cambridge, featuring an undercover ice rink and cosy Alpine Cabin Bar. Adults priced £12.50, children under 15, OAPs, students and concessions £11 and children under 12 £10.50. www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk

The Big Skate

Great Yarmouth Winter Festival, Weekends from 30 November – 23 December Market Square, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2AX A mixture of wooden chalets and gazebos will take shape in the Market Square, creating a perfect festive atmosphere with gifts, handmade crafts and treats for everyone on offer. www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/whats-on/gy-winter-festival.aspx

Deepdale Christmas Market, 30 November – 2 December, 10am to 5pm Dalegate Market, Shopping & Cafe, Burnham Deepdale, PE31 8FB One of the most popular traditional Christmas markets in the county, visitors can browse goods from over 120 local artisans and producers. Free entry and car parking. www.dalegatemarket.co.uk/christmas-market

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Christmas at the Colosseum

A Victorian Christmas Evening

Throughout December, Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 3JN Families are spoilt this Christmas at the Colosseum, as ‘Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey’ runs for the entire month of December. Not only will you be whisked on a theatrical adventure with songs and stories, there will be a chance to meet Santa at the end of the show. No Christmas is complete without The Snowman, enjoy an immersive experience on 17 December. Don’t miss the Rudolph Rave on 16 December; with a DJ on the decks, glow sticks, gallons of glitter, a spectacular laser-light display and a licensed bar for the big kids, this family-friendly party afternoon will make Christmas 2018 truly unforgettable! www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

1 December, 6pm, Long Shop Museum, 15 Main St, Leiston IP16 4ES Experience Christmas from a different era. The museum will be creating an amazing Victorian atmosphere, with an abridged version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, accompanied with piano, festive refreshments and carols from Ipswich’s Song Community Choir. Fancy dress is encouraged! Tickets £12.50 for adults and £7.50 children under 14. www.longshopmuseum.co.uk

Ice skating at Lee Valley 1 December – 6 January, Lee Valley White Water Centre, Station Road, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire EN9 1AB Get your skates on and take to the ice at the London 2012 Olympic legacy venue which will host an array of seasonal activities and entertainment for families and friends to enjoy throughout the festive period including an ice rink, curling lanes for a taster of the winter sport, a Santa’s grotto and fun fair. Ice skating prices start from £5pp for a 45 minute session, curling lanes available from £18.75pp based on eight people hiring a lane for a two hour session. gowhitewater.co.uk

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas 1, 8, 15, 22 December, 10am – 4pm Strangers’ Hall, Charing Cross, Norwich, NR2 4AL Strangers’ Hall is a delightful museum to celebrate Christmas and is the perfect setting for its Victorian Father Christmas visits themed with the famous poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, creating an authentic and exciting immersive experience for children and adults alike. Norfolk-museums.arttickets.org.uk

Enchanted Audley End 6-9, 13-16, 20-23 and 27-30 December, 4.30-9pm. Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF Make the most of the winter evenings this December with an enchanting experience of light, colour and sound as Audley End is transformed into an illuminated world. Follow the charming trail inspired by fairy tales and folklore and discover the magical secrets hidden deep within the woodlands. Step through tunnels and pathways of beautiful fairy-lights, cross the enchanted bridge, encounter a lively family of talking trees and watch as the rivers and landscape burst to life in remarkable, unexpected ways. Buy marshmallows to toast under the night sky as well as warming mulled wine and mince pies. Remember to book early to avoid missing out. Adults: £12, Children £7.50 www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

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Carol Concert 5 December, performances at 6.30pm and 8.30pm, doors open 30 mins before. Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR Join in the Christmas celebrations at Wrest Park with carols sung by Christ’s College, Cambridge choir, in the stunning surroundings of the Library. Get in the festive spirit with a mix of traditional and modern Christmas Carols. Make the most of your evening by booking to have Christmas dinner in the splendid state rooms. Dinner is only available for the 6.30pm performance, booking for this is essential. Priced: Adults: £15 www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrestpark English Heritage Carol Concert

Santa Run,

Cambridgeshire Christmas Craft & Food Fair

6 December, 1pm. Suffolk Business Park, Bury St Edmunds A sea of red jackets and white beards will descend on Suffolk this month when East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) hosts a Santa run. The fun run, just shy of two kilometres, is a non-competitive event and everyone is welcome to join. Tickets are £12 or £15 will also get you a Santa suit. www.each.org.uk.

8-9 December, 10am-4pm. The Arena Wood Green, London Road, Godmanchester, PE29 2NH A huge range of over 100 arts, craft and gift stalls where you might find anything from jewellery and other accessories, handmade cards, photography, candles, aromatherapy products, through to ceramics and wood turning as well as food & drink – Christmas shopping all under one roof! Tickets: £3, concessions £2.50 accompanied young people 18 & under free.

Credit: EACH

Santa’s Grotto for Dogs 8 December 2018, 11am – 3pm The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF Bring your dressed up pooches to meet Santa Woof Woof in his kennel shaped grotto and be part of the seasonal silliness. Santa’s little helpers from the RSPCA will be handing out doggie treats and helping you take family pictures. The event is free but donations to the animal charities are encouraged. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk

Dickensian Christmas

Brightlingsea Christmas Tree Festival 7-9 December, Town Centre, Brightlingsea, Essex, CO7 0BP Stand among the twinkling Christmas trees which have been decorated by local residents and businesses. The spectacular display is accompanied by a Christmas shop, homemade festive treats and music from choirs and musicians. Entry is £3.50 adults and children/students free, 10am-6pm, last admission 5.15pm. A festival shuttle bus also operates on both days. www.brightlingseachristmastreefestival.co.uk

Lavenham Christmas Market 7-9 December The Market Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with a funfair, big wheel and over 50 stalls; it’s truly a family affair. There’ll also be carol singers to get you in the mood and village shops will be open for late night shopping during the event. www.lovelavenham.co.uk/christmas-lavenham-suffolk

8-9 & 15-16 December, Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 9BA Step back in time and experience a Christmas from 1869. Kentwell Hall will be decorated in Victorian style, offering an insight into festive traditions from a time gone by. There will be activities throughout the day including Mr Dickens himself narrating ‘A Christmas Carol’, complete with Victorian illusions. Adults from £22.15, Child 12-15 years from £19.60, Child 4-11 years from £14.95 and Child 18months – 3 years from £7.25. www.kentwell.co.uk/events/dickensian/dickensian-christmas

True Stories Live Christmas Special 9 December, 7.30pm. Norwich Arts Centre, St Benedict’s Street Norwich NR2 4PG Intimate monthly storytelling event True Stories Live has some exciting guests for its Christmas Special. ITV News Arts Editor Nina Nannar and writer and actress Helen Linehan will join a line-up of people telling their personal anecdotal stories to a warm and friendly audience. Advance booking is recommended. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk True Stories Live compere Molly Naylor TSL photo credit: Robin Mair

Ware Dickensian 7 December, 6pm-10pm, Town Centre, Ware Crowds will gather in the High Street as residents and local shops celebrate the start of the Christmas period! Expect a buzzing atmosphere and festive entertainment. www.facebook.com/events/170907696924843/

Hitchin Christmas Big Weekend 8-9 December, 10am-4pm, Market Place, Hitchin A little piece of the North Pole lands in Hitchin with an arctic theme featuring street entertainment and a reindeer procession with Father Christmas. Visit Santa’s Grotto and enjoy the Giant Snow Globe! www.hitchinherts.com

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Credit: Fern Carpenter

Christmas Specials – Norwich Ghost Walks 10-21 December. Begins at Adam and Eve Pub, 17 Bishopgate, Norwich NR3 1RZ The Christmas Specials feature winter ghost stories from around the country, with a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine at the Adam & Eve, before heading out on a one-hour special around the chilly streets! (Before heading back to the pub to warm up!) Tickets £9. www.ghostwalksnorwich.co.uk/events

A Christmas Soiree 11-13 December. Hylands House, London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8WQ Settle in to the Banqueting Room and enjoy a performance from The Cameo Players as they bring their blend of music, drama and joviality to Hylands House with a new Christmas Show. The Victorians certainly knew how to enjoy the festivities – and who could be a more genial host than Mr. Pickwick himself? Tickets priced £16. hylandsestate.co.uk/events/christmas-soiree-pickwickchristmas/2018-12-13

Santa in Love

The Baron in the Trees – a Christmas Circus Spectacular 13-16 December, 6.30pm, The Oak Circus Centre, Oak Street, Norwich NR3 3AE A taste of Italian festivities comes to Norwich this Christmas with Lost in Translation Circus’ spectacular inspired by Italo Calvini’s 1957 novel of the same name. The family show will feature astonishing and astounding performances, high flying aerial stunts and amazing acrobatics mixed with slapstick poetry and juggling to create a show to thrill young and old alike. Tickets £10 adults, £6 children. www.lostintranslationcircus.com

Festive Cruise on the Queen of the Broads 9 & 16 December Broads Tours, The Bridge, Wroxham, Norwich, NR12 8RX Adults are not forgotten at Broads Tours this festive season, with two days of special mulled wine and mince pie trips. The Queen of the Broads will depart from Wroxham with an entertaining live commentary on the outward journey, where your skipper will explain the origins of the Broads, whilst pointing out the local wildlife and any other points of interest. On the return journey sit back and listen to Christmas music and soak up the festive atmosphere on board – the perfect way to kick start your Christmas celebrations. Booking recommended - £13 per person. www.broadstours.co.uk

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13-15 December, Civic Theatre, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1JG This production includes everyone’s favourite Christmas characters including the fairy on top of the tree, elves, Frosty the Snowman and of course, Santa. A magical festive family-friendly afternoon! www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres/whats-on/children-andfamilies/santa-in-love/

Disco Underground 22 December, 9.00pm – late 2648, Trinity Street, Cambridge Head underground for a night of Christmas craziness. A festival style party with secret guest DJs (psst - we hear a rumour it’s a big name ...initials SF) house, disco and funk music, wild decor, glitter from Starlight Boutique and plenty of surprises. www.tickettailor.com/events/discounderground

Bottomless Festive Afternoon Tea 13 December. SIX, The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Thompson’s Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8AQ Enjoy the tasty delights of afternoon tea with unlimited mulled wine while taking in the wintry landscape of the city from the hotel’s panoramic bar and brasserie. Priced £29.50 per person. www.sixcambridge.co.uk

Festive Food Fair at Holkham Hall 15-16 December. Holkham Rd, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB A delicious collection of food and drink from the best of local and regional producers. www.holkham.co.uk/events/christmas-at-holkham/ festive-food-fair

Christmas Magic at Peterborough Cathedral 15 December, 2.30pm and 7.30pm Peterborough Cathedral Warm up those vocals for ‘Christmas Magic’, which will round off Peterborough Cathedral’s 900th anniversary year in spectacular style. Now in its eighth successful year, the ever-popular Christmas extravaganza features all your festive favourites including ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’, ‘Walking in the Air’, ‘Away in a Manger’, ‘Silent Night’ and many more. Tickets from £18. www.peterboroughsings.org.uk

A Winter’s Tail 19 December – 2 January Pensthorpe Natural Park, Pensthorpe, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0LN This fun family event encourages visitors to explore the beauty of Pensthorpe’s natural habitats. Learn enchanting stories about the animals that tuck themselves up for a long winter’s sleep, the incredible creatures who adapt to handle cold conditions, and those who take the long and adventurous migratory journey to warmer climates. There will also be some craft-making activities and a winterinspired self-guided trail weaving through the reserve. www.pensthorpe.com

The Sky is Full of Light: The Voice Project Choir 10th anniversary concert, 22 December, 7.30pm, St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich NR3 1AU In celebration of their 10 years of song, Norwich’s Voice Project Choir are presenting a very special Christmas concert titled ‘The Sky is Full of Light’ after the song written for the choir by famed jazz musician Barbara Thompson (one of the first to be specially written for them). The concert will feature some of The Voice Project’s favourite pieces from the past decade alongside new seasonal songs especially written for the event. www.voiceproject.co.uk

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols 24 December, King’s College Chapel, Cambridge A truly beautiful festive event to start the Christmas holidays. Televised for the BBC, the service includes carols and readings from the Bible. You’ll need to be eager to get tickets, queues start forming the night before! Tickets are distributed at 7am, and those who do receive tickets will be invited to come back after 1:30pm to gain admission. www.kings.cam.ac.uk/events/chapel-services/nine-lessons

Boxing Day Kayak 26 December, Hickling Broad, Norfolk Outdoor Adventures, cost around £55 pp An opportunity to get out on the water on Boxing Day morning and to experience the stunning beauty and nature of Hickling Broad from a wonderfully different and totally magical perspective! Be quick to book - there are only 16 places up for grabs! Tickets cost £55 per person. www.norfolkoutdooradventures.co.uk

Festive Falconry, 27 -28 December, 11am-3pm Church Street, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9BP Witness graceful hawks, elegant owls and glorious falcons in flight as expert falconers demonstrate the art of training, exercising and hunting with birds. Hear how food was caught for the Christmas dinner table whilst these amazing birds swoop overhead. Adults: £11.80, Concessions: £10.60, Children (5-15): £7.10 www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham English Heritage

Christmas Farmers’ Market, 22 December, 9.30am Snape Maltings Let’s face it Christmas is about the food! Stock up on the finest regional produce for your Christmas dinner and parties at this fantastic market! www.snapemaltings.co.uk/whats-on/christmas-farmers-market

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EOR2322-Christmas2018-105x148mm-001.pdf

01/10/2018

14:43

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

VISIT SANTA ON HIS SPECIAL TRAIN

Santa and his fantastic team are coming back to the Epping Ongar Railway for the 2018 Santa Specials! We’ll have the Redbridge Brass Band, Christmas-themed stalls and of course Santa on his special train.

2018

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2018

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Don’t forget! Mince Pie Specials 28, 29, 30 Dec Steam into the New Year 1 Jan 2019

FARES

£17.50 / £20.00 eorailway.co.uk Epping Ongar Railway

A FAMILY CHRISTMAS SHOW AT

@eorailway

01277 365200

in association with Jordan Productions present

Frankie Jones as Jack

Jon De Ville as Fleshcreep

TICKETS JUST £15.50 (£10 CON) FOR AGES 5+

JUNCTION.CO.UK BOX OFFICE 01223 511511

Nicholas Pound as King Clarence

CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION CLIFTON WAY CAMBRIDGE CB1 7GX

Tom Lowe as Dame Trott

Written by Chris Jordan Directed and Choreographed by Julia Cave

15 December 2018 - 6 January 2019

Box Office: 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Wyllyotts Theatre, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, Herts EN6 2HN

Thursday 29th Nov – Sun 2nd Dec 2018 Thursday : 12.00noon – 7.30pm Friday : 9.00am – 7.30pm Saturday: 9.00am – 7.30pm Sunday: 9:00am – 5.00pm Market Square & Town Hall

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON Thurs 29th Nov at 6.30pm d Fun for all the family d Meet Father Christmas d Children’s entertainment d Festive food and drinks d Live music stage d Christmas gifts & stocking fillers To find out more, visit:

Facebook: Huntingdon Christmas Market 2018 Website: www.huntingdonchristmasmarket.co.uk Email: natasha.pierson@huntingdontown.gov.uk

HUNTINGDON

TOWN COUNCIL

Enjoy a special Christmas at the Cathedral this year Join us for our annual Carols by Candlelight service on Saturday 15 December at 7pm and a new service for this year, ‘The Longest Night’ which will be held on Saturday 22 December at 3.30 pm. Please see details of the other services and events on our website. You will be most welcome to join us at this very special time. Limited spaces, booking now available through our website.

www.stedscathedral.org

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et the chestnuts roasting, stoke the fire and reach for the Festive tree before heading to Mia’s Luxury, Bond Street Chelmsford. There you will find a fabulous range of tree decorations and innovative gifts such as luxury tableware from Culinary Concepts, depicting the ornate Stag, Octopus and elegant Crab ice bucket centre pieces.

MIA’ S Where style is Diverse

You will also find novelty designed silver cruet sets and champagne cork keep sakes, together with warm copper toned cutlery, just perfect for entertaining. Complete your room with one of their spectacular metallic or natural cowhides of varying sizes and colours. Explore the beautiful Ashleigh & Burwood ‘Wild Things’ range of ceramic room fragrances, including the 2018 Limited Editions of Christmas Spice, Cashmere Musk and Earthy Patchouli to fill your room with a festive warmth. Whether you have your heart on a particular design of furniture, or looking for inspiration, Mia’s will help source anything from modern, traditional, French to industrial the list is endless, unlike delivery which is generally within two weeks. Open Mon-Sat 9.30-5:30, Sun 11-4

MIA’ S Where style is Diverse

22 Bond Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1GH 01245 265625 info@miasluxury.co.uk

https://miasluxury.co.uk

Leather Cambridge

Looking for a unique Christmas gift?

Bags THE SPECIALIST LEATHER SHOP

LARGE SELECTION OF LEATHER GOODS... • PURSES & WALLETS • COMPUTER BAGS • TRAVEL GOODS • BRIEFCASES • HANDBAGS • SUITCASES

Sponsor a rescued horse or pony! Cookie says, “I’ll write to you and you can visit me for free!” Adopt a rescued horse (or donkey) from Redwings for a whole year for just £15! www.redwings.org.uk/adopt 01508 481000

QUALITY REPAIR SERVICE Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm

1 SUSSEX STREET, CAMBRIDGE

01223 312 971

Gift shopping I

– it’s a wrap!

f you’ve still not started your Christmas shopping don’t panic, we’ve pulled together gifts from local artists, craftsmen, designers and businesses all guaranteed to put a smile on a loved-ones face!

Bee Happy! This 925 sterling silver set, plated with gold, makes the perfect gift this Christmas. Prices: Pendant £42,

Bracelet £53,

Earrings £36

Available from Cloud Nine Gems, St Ives www.cloudninegems.com

Gin lovers will adore Pinksters gift set. Created in Cambridgeshire, the gin has a subtle fruity flavour. Fancy a taster? Drop by the Pinkster Gin pop-up bar in Debenhams’s beauty hall at intu Watford. www.pinkstergin.com

Stuck for a gift idea for the artist in your life? PhotoART GB’s vouchers, ranging from £10 to £100 are redeemable against any of their services, from Fine Art Giclée Printing to Picture Framing. These are also ideal for anyone who is getting married next year and will want their treasured wedding photographs framed! Available from www.facebook.com/photoartgb/shop or by calling 01223 834411

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10 Specially Selected Beers including the Michelin Star Chef Galton Blackiston’s No.1‘s, a Moon Gazer Glass, Keyring bottle opener & pen. Price: £29.99 Available from: Beers of Europe, Norfolk www.beersofeurope.co.uk

Give the gift of a new hobby or chance to be creative with vouchers for the beautiful and newly launched Cambridge Writing Retreat based in Elsworth, Cambs. Your recipient can then choose from the Spring 2019 programme, the course they would like to attend. You will receive a lovely voucher via email for you to print, or a hard copy through the post. Writing courses or retreat days - £75 and £45 www.cambridgewritingretreat.com

Who doesn’t love jewellery? Make it extra special with a personalised touch. This is just one of the many items available for personalisation at Norwich’s Lisa Angel. Price: £22 www.lisaangel.co.uk

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A cuddly soft toy version of Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s own adorable Rumpel, available at a special festive price. Suitable for children aged 36 months upwards. All sale proceeds will go towards supporting the 1,500 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in the care of the charity. Special price: £11 (was £15) www.redwings.org.uk/shop

‘It’s always happy hour somewhere..’ No cocktail connoisseur should be without this print in their kitchen (or by their drinks cabinet!). Discover gorgeous prints by Jen Roffe. Signed archival print in black and white. Available in A4 and A3 unframed and framed, from £20. Check online for Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire stockists. www.jenroffe.com

Do you know a keen cook, gardener or artisan? An Aabelard apron could be the ideal gift. Hand sewn and created in a home in rural Hertfordshire. Price: The Atelier apron (with a cross-back strap), £85. The Heritage (deep wrap around pockets), £75. www.aabelard.com

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Buy in store or online www.pebble-sanctuary.com 01462 458885 www.pebble-sanctuary.com 01462SG5 458885 17-18 Bucklersbury, Hitchin, 1BB 17-18 Bucklersbury, Hitchin, SG5 1BB

All cakes are designed and made to order. We will discuss a range of options with you, allowing you to create the cake of your dreams! All occasions catered for. CHEESE CAKES

Design led furniture and accessories for the home and garden 36 - 38 Station Road, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2SS

01787 312126 www.aglifestyle.co.uk Open Monday to Saturday 9.30 AM - 5.00 PM

PORK PIE CAKES

CHEESE PLATES

CHARCUTERIE

Whether you’re looking for a warming Christmas scented candle for yourself, or a gorgeous gift for a friend, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for at The Home Fragrance Company. If you are buying a present, there’s also a great selection of cards and wrapping paper to ensure that everything you need to achieve the perfect gift is catered for. They will even wrap your purchases for you at no extra cost!

The Countdown to 2019

ay goodbye to 2018 in style, with a New Year celebration at one of the region’s finest venues

New Year’s Eve is a chance to put on your party dress and heels or pull on your favourite shirt and get ready to dance the night away with loved ones. The prospect of fresh beginnings and times ahead is exciting so put on your finest, pour the Champagne and raise a glass to 2019. If an exclusive black tie evening accompanied by good food and live music sounds like your ideal celebration book at table at The Sculpture Gallery in Woburn. On arrival you’ll be welcomed with a drink, before tucking into a four course dinner. The five piece band, Blue Rinse, will be performing throughout the evening with music from a variety of genres including Motown, swing, pop, soul and pop-rock. Tickets cost £120 per person and can be booked at www.woburn.co.uk. After a night of fun, if your feet just won’t carry you home, then make sure you book an overnight stay at The Woburn Hotel. With its stylish rooms and Olivier’s restaurant, it’s a great place to wake up fresh in 2019!

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Picture the scene; a beautiful wintery walk followed by snuggling in front of a roaring fire under oak beams surrounded by twinkling lights. If this sounds idyllic to you then pack your bags and head to the Swan at Lavenham Hotel and Spa this New Year. The historic hotel is offering a flexible two-night NYE package arriving on either 30 or 31 December. The trip includes an afternoon tea, Champagne reception and candlelit dinner with live entertainment which will keep you dancing until midnight. To ensure you look your best for the big event, book a treatment at Weaver’s House Spa, prep your skin in the sauna and steam and relax in the outdoor hot tub. The two night package starts from £435 per person. Book at www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk If a chic city break is more your style make your way to Norwich. With its vibrant bar and restaurant scene there’s plenty of places to celebrate. During the day trot along the cobbled Lanes and Timber Hill while shopping at the city’s independent stores, admire the ancient buildings such as St Andrew’s Hall, Dragon Hall and Strangers’ Hall and as night falls step under the glittering Tunnel of Light. There’s no shortage of places to stay in the city, book a room at Gothic House, Norfolk Mead or The Assembly House.

What could be better than an escape to the Essex countryside for New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve? Check-in at Down Hall Hotel & Spa for a night to remember (downhall.co.uk). Start your day with a walk around the 110 acres of woodlands and landscaped grounds before unwinding at the spa. In the evening, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get dressed up and indulge in a four course meal, enjoy a game of Roulette or Black Jack and dance the night away! With so much on offer throughout the region, forget watching the countdown at home on TV, be amongst the celebrations and see the New Year in with a bang!

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Westgate • Peterborough • PE1 1RB

New Year’s Eve

Masquerade Ball Monday 31st December £170 per adult Check into your room from 2pm followed by Afternoon Tea served between 2:30pm & 4pm. Join us for a pre-dinner reception with cocktails and canapes from 7pm and then sit down to our chefs mouth-watering 4-course menu for all of your party to enjoy! (black tie optional, smart attire) Enjoy live entertainment throughout dinner, then dance the night away courtesy of our resident DJ. Includes overnight accommodation and a Full English breakfast served on New Years Day from 9am-12 noon.

Make it a jolly holiday with a meal at the

King’s Head at Ivinghoe

Festive Menu @ £29.95 reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk Tel: 01296 668388 www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk

To make a reservation or for more information, please take a brochure or contact our events team on 01733 561 364. events@bull-hotel-peterborough.com • www.peelhotels.co.uk

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Sugar and spice make Christmas nice!

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Plan your perfect festive celebration With the Riverside Bedford party planner at:

www.riversidebedford.co.uk/party Festive riverside setting in BedFord town centre ● christmas lights & giant present decorations traditional and not-so traditional menus From £12.95pp* ● gluten Free, vegetarian and vegan choices two Bars to keep the party going ● great For large and small groups For christmas & new year

Riverside Bedford, Riverside Square, Bedford, MK40 1AS @RiversideBdfd * details correct at time of printing. £12.95 per person menu is tapas buffet at albero lounge.

orpe Barn christmas Festival 2018 h t k c a l B • •

r e d n o Wof tmas s i r h C The

Blackthorpe Barn Country Christmas Shop | British Crafts Workshops | Christmas Trees | Artisan Wreaths Café | Festive Nights

www.blackthorpebarn.com/christmas J45 A14. Rougham, 3 miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9HZ

On the List... Christmas shopping in the East

f your Christmas list is starting to look longer than Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, escape the heaving high street and pick up the perfect present at one of our favourite shopping destinations

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There’s something special about Christmas shopping that makes us want step away from a screen and get out among the crowds and festive atmosphere. If you’re still looking for gorgeous gifts and one off finds for loved ones, take a trip to the region’s best shopping villages stacked with crafts, handmade goods, tasty treats and bargain brands.

Christmas in the Countryside Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and woodlands are some of the region’s most wonderful shopping opportunities. Their sense of secrecy makes shopping feel extra special and you can always guarantee excellent customer service and a festive atmosphere. In Cambridgeshire visit Burwash Manor (www.burwashmanor.com). Located on a working organic farm, it offers a variety of independent shops, a tearoom and day spa, housed in beautiful converted farm buildings. With clothing, jewellery, wine, local produce, flowers, toys and furnishings available, you’re sure to find gorgeous gifts for loved ones. The festivities officially begin on 2 December with a day of Christmas cheer including a visit from Father Christmas, carols and festive food and drinks. Snape Maltings (www.snapemaltings.co.uk/shop) has firmly established itself as the go to shopping destination in Suffolk. Pick up a tasty gift at the huge Food Hall, lose yourself among the antiques and collectables, pick up quirky gifts in the craft store or snap up a traditional or contemporary piece of art from British artists in the gallery. Stores will be open until Christmas Eve, Father Christmas will be sailing by on 21 December and there’s a whole programme of festive fun throughout the month. Even the biggest scrooge will find it difficult not to get into the Christmas spirit at Blackthorpe Barn (www.blackthorpebarn.com). The medieval thatched barn

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is home to an abundance of Christmas shops, crafts, trees and workshops. Visitors to the country Christmas shop are treated to colourful themes of gorgeous and often hand-made decorations both, traditional and highly contemporary, and nostalgic gift ranges for all the family and its pets. There’s also warming aromatic candles, beautiful gift wrap and festive accessories to transform your home. The Christmas shop is open every day until 22 December. Extra creative inspiration can be sought from the weekend crafts, showcasing the very best of British talent. There are six craft weekends this year, starting 10 November. Visitors can be wowed by the beautiful individually handcrafted items. Many exhibitors change each weekend so there are new inspirations for each visit. Each item is hand-crafted by the exhibitor themselves, allowing visitors to meet and chat with the makers. Equally as exciting as the House and Gardens, the Stable Yard at Hatfield House (www.stableyardshops.co.uk) is a fantastic retail experience. Located in a beautiful setting, stores are open Tuesday to Sunday and include jewellery, country clothing, gifts, toys and a restaurant. On 9 December the Old Palace will be filled with the joyful and uplifting sounds of the Hertfordshire Chorus.

Historic Finds Discover a sense of nostalgia on the Norfolk and Suffolk border at Earsham Hall (www.earshamhall.co.uk). In the grounds of the 15th century country manor house, you’ll find Earsham Hall Furnishings which features beautiful homewares, lighting, accessories and more. Their gift vouchers would make the perfect present for an interior obsessed friend or loved one. There’s also the chance to pick up one off gifts, many of which have been imported from around the world!

Christmas shopping in Norwich

Your trip can be finished off with a Vintage Bus Ride around the city. Available from 20 December to Christmas Eve, the free vintage Routemaster rides is great for sightseeing and ideal for taking the weight off your feet and soaking up the festive atmosphere in the city.

City Treasures Looking for a wider range of little independent shops to look around? Then it is definitely worth heading to the Norwich Lanes. Draped in Christmas lights, the Lanes offer the ultimate Christmas shopping experience, with atmospheric lighting, cafes galore and a wide variety of stores. Pick up a beautifully crafted gift from Lisa Angel, a small boutique on Lower Goat Lane, selling a variety of items from delicate jewellery to little touches for the home. Alternatively wander through the light filled streets down to The Book Hive and find yourself surrounded by titles fit for any reader, something that can easily be gifted to anyone in the family. If you love all things vintage then stop by the Books, Antiques and Vintage Fair at The Forum on 20 December. Browse the collections and see if you can find the one-off piece you’ve been looking for. Expect ceramics, glass, silver, jewellery and more. Visit the book fair, where you can lose yourself within the titles, find a hidden treasure or discover a new author from the wide variety of secondhand books of all genres.

In the lead up to Christmas, Cambridge is a shoppers paradise. Home to household names such as John Lewis, designer labels such a Hugo Boss and LK Bennett, one off independent stores and boutiques such as Della Kaur, which is a great for jewellery, and Modish perfect for finding must-have seasonal footwear, plus homewares, clothing and local crafts and food - you won’t be leaving empty handed!

Bag a Bargain December is the month that is going to drain the pennies from your purse, however there are savings to be made at Freeport Braintree in Essex (www.freeport-braintree.com). With more than 85 stores and amazing deals on big named brands, high street retailers and quality businesses, it’s the perfect location to save some money this Christmas and get your shop done smoothly. Stores are outside and have a village style so you’ll still feel as though you’re escaping a shopping mall. Alternatively, Clacton Factory Outlet also in Essex, advertises 60 percent off of high street stores with a wide variety of shops making gift shopping a breeze. With so many opportunities to pick up the perfect present, you might need a bigger tree to put them under!

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Earsham Home Furnishings

Our extensive showrooms house a large range of pine, oak & hand painted furniture in East Anglia, traditional fireplaces, surrounds and accessories, solid brass lighting, mirrors, prints, giftware and decorative accessories.

Monday - Saturday 9.00am 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Open –daily - Bank holiday opening–times 10am to 5pm

Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk- -Web: Web:www.earshamhomefurnishing.co.uk www.earshamhall.co.uk Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk

EARSHAM HALL, BUNGAY, SUFFOLK, NR35 2AN FURNITURE LIGHTING FIREPLACES GIFTS TEAROOM KITCHENS EVENTS

Christmas Party Menu throughout December Works Christmas Parties Family Get Together

Celebrate in style this festive season

Real Reindeer 2nd & 9th December

The Flight of Wines Menu 13th December

Real Trees & Wreaths in Store Breakfast with Santa - Book online Tea with Santa - Book online

Elton, Peterborough, PE8 6SH

Tel: 01832 343104 www.bosworthsgc.co.uk

A warm welcome awaits you in this popular local Cafe in the centre of the historic Town of Clare We serve a full breakfast menu and light lunches with seasonal daily specials. A selection of teas and locally roasted coffee, ground to order make this cafe a welcome rest after a days shopping!

Christmas hampers made to order with no minimum spend 1 High Street, Clare CO10 8NY 01787 278932 - kent.palmer@btinternet.com Opening Times : Monday to Saturday – 9am-5pm

Why not try our sister cafe, Platform One? Situated in Clare’s beautiful country park Parking available 01787 277850 - Station House, Clare Castle Country Park Maltings Lane, Clare CO10 8NW

With a new name and new stores, your favourite shopping destination just got even better. For the latest news and information visit ClactonShoppingVillage.com or ďŹ nd us across social media.

COMING SOON - Doglife 2019 Your essential guide to the dog friendly services of the East of England.

• Dog friendly hotels, cottages, campsites • Where to eat and drink • Shopping for and with your pooch • Dog friendly events/ dog shows • Dog friendly walks/ beaches Email enquiries@eastlife.co.uk to advertise or to pre-order your copy!

DogLife

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Your Big Day Out

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Dog friendly

Tails about town Written by Emma Kemsley

The most dog-friendly towns in East Anglia

he East is a region of dog lovers, but there are some areas which stand out from the rest and get a paws up from our furry friends. Fletcher and I have visited a fair few towns on our travels; he brings a whole new meaning to the definition of a ‘working spaniel’. Rather than joining the beating line and retrieving on cue, it’s Fletcher’s job to sniff out biscuit bars in dog friendly pubs, taste test the water bowls dotted around towns and hunt out the best walks. It’s a tough job but someone has to do it, and who better than a spaniel with more energy than the Duracell bunny. Fletcher has sniffed, sprinted and splashed his way around the region, while I’ve technically been dragged along and covered in mud, to bring you our verdict, in no particular order…

Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

Saffron Walden, Essex

A few months ago Bury St Edmunds’ town council, tourism boards and Canine Crèche came together to launch an initiative to give dogs a warm welcome in the town. Shops, eateries, hotels and attractions display a paw print logo sticker in their window and put out a water bowl to show visitors they are part of ‘DogFriendly Bury St Edmunds’.

There are a surprising number of businesses throughout this historic Essex town that welcome four-legged friends. Of course most of the pubs are dog friendly, but unexpectedly, so are high street clothes chains, independent boutiques and interiors stores. I was delighted to hear that one of my favourite businesses, Angela Reed, a high end furnishing store, which has a cute café on its second floor is dogfriendly. I’ve not been brave enough to take Fletcher yet as the idea of taking him past gorgeous homewares is slightly terrifying.

Fletcher, my husband and I recently spent a beautiful sunny autumn Sunday walking around the town. We enjoyed a stroll through the Abbey Gardens (though dogs aren’t allowed off lead) and Fletcher managed to drain every water bowl dry. Though he was welcome to step inside many of the shops, his excitement and small spaces is a disaster waiting to happen so we chose to window shop instead. It’s great to see a town recognising doggy visitors – it’s a paws up from Fletch!

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There are plenty of local walks. Audley End Park is ideal for adventurous dogs who like to run free, explore hedgerows and splash in streams, while The Common, in the middle of Saffron Walden, is perfect for stretching those four legs. The large green space is surrounded by roads so only obedient dogs should be let off lead. There’s water bowls around the

town for rehydrating after walkies. Head further out of the town, and country walks can be found in the nearby villages of Debden, Newport and Wimbish.

Woodbridge, Suffolk A firm favourite for a walk and a pub stop is Woodbridge. It’s heaven for dogs who love to be off lead and enjoy a splash in the water. Take a stroll along the footpath of the River Debden before heading into the town for a bite to eat at one of the many dog friendly pubs. There are taps by the boat yard for washing down mucky paws and water bowls throughout the town. At The King’s Head furry guests are welcomed with treats and water, and can dine from the ‘Mutts Menu’. Tag your dog enjoying their visit on Instagram and they could star on the King’s Head Hounds wall of fame!

DOG LIFE

If you’d like to discover more dog friendly towns, pubs, accommodation and attractions throughout the East then Christmas has come early as eastlife will be launching a brand new publication all about dogs! ‘DogLife’ will be available from January 2019 priced £3.95. Email us at editorial@eastlife.co.uk to pre-order your copy.

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The pawfect present It’s their Christmas too, so spoil your pet with our gift guide for furry friends…

Say goodbye to tangled fur with the Pet Teezer De-Shedding Brush Price: £12 www.petteezer.com

Everything you need for an adventure with your furry BFF Price: £22 www.petspyjamas.com

Swap stinky wet towels for a stylish drying mitt! Price: £18 www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

The must-have drying coat for any mucky pup. Perfect for the winter and available in Burgundy, French Navy and Mud. Make a style statement with this gorgeous green leather collar. Price: from £30 www.fetchandfollow.com

Price: Small £41.50 Medium £44 Large £49 www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

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MUM’s The Word

Little East

Written by Dolly Osborne

Christmas Magic

’m an unashamed Harry Potter geek and gobble up all manner of memes and listicles about the Wizarding World. Usually I’m just happy to add to my vast geek knowledge reserves but recently I read something I took umbrage with: why would wizards celebrate Christmas?

The concept of wizards celebrating Christmas was called out as some kind of gaping plot hole, I’m guessing the crux of which is that anything that has been heralded as miraculous can just be put down to witchcraft and wizardry and therefore religion would not have a place. Not only do I find this nonsensical in a world where Christmas is often celebrated by the secular community, but for me it misses what is at the heart of Christmas. Christmas is magic. I think magic is key to Christmas time, that certain something in the air that makes even the Grinchy-est of people smile at strangers on Christmas Eve, the flutter in your stomach as you count down the days of advent, the family that comes together to share joy and love whilst

pushing the humdrum of daily life to one side. The magic that makes Christmas special, even to non-Christians, is something that you can’t quite put your finger on; it’s something that you feel rather than something you can buy. The magic of Christmas is very literal to children waiting on Santa Claus, screwing their eyes up tight on Christmas Eve and willing the morning to come, but as an adult I don’t think the magic dies, it just changes. Our gifts may now come from relatives and not from the North Pole but the delight of making others happy and of sharing joyful times with the people we care about is definitely magical. Christmas magic is something very real to me and as a Harry Potter aficionado I think it makes perfect sense that the one time in the year that muggles get to feel the joy of magic is celebrated throughout wizardkind. Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus

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13 Magical Santa’s Grottos Written by Jessica Hutchinson Instagram @jessicahutchy

ne of the most magical moments that you can have as a child is meeting Father Christmas in his grotto, with his elves all around and maybe even Mrs Christmas or a reindeer or two! To help you find the perfect place to meet the jolly fellow this Christmas, we’ve put together a guide of the best Santa’s Grottos in the region. Audley End Miniature Railway Christmas Special, 1- 24 December Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JB Go on a Christmas adventure on the Santa Express to Father Christmas’ Winter Wonderland among the woodlands of the Audley End. You can meet the man himself as well as the mischievous elves, watch their dance and every child will receive a little gift. There is also face painting, Father Christmas letter writing and crafts for children too. This is a hugely popular event so book quick! www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

Blackthorpe Barn Santa’s Grotto, Weekends during 1 -16 December, and 19 -22 December Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9HZ Blackthorpe prides itself in its beautiful Santa’s Grotto and is a special and atmospheric place to meet the guy in red. All children will meet Santa as well as receive a small gift too. You can also pick up your Christmas tree, enjoy walks, crafts and the Christmas Shop. www.blackthorpebarn.com

An Audience with Father Christmas, Weekends 1-23 December Audley End House & Gardens, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF Meet Father Christmas amongst the festive decorations and listen to his Christmas stories. Children will also receive a small present. Please be aware there is an additional £5 charge for all children to see Father Christmas and pre-booking tickets is essential. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

Lee Valley White Water Centre’s Christmas Event Santa’s Grotto, Weekends during 1-24 December and Christmas Eve

Perrywood’s Christmas Grotto, Weekends 1-16 December, everyday 17 – 24 December, 9.30am-3.45pm

Station Road, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN9 1AB Come and meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift if you’re on the nice list! There are photo opportunities to capture the special moment with Santa as well as ice skating and a Christmas Market to look for some stocking fillers. Booking is recommended. www.gowhitewater.co.uk

Perrywood Garden Centre, Kelvedon Road, Tiptree, Inworth, Colchester, CO5 9SX Complete with a northern lights sky, this year’s grotto is set to be better than ever. There are singing reindeers, friendly elves, art and crafts and a little toy for every child. Perrywood is also hosting a more relaxed magical grotto experience to be tailored for those with additional needs who might find the grotto overwhelming. Booking is essential. www.perrywood.co.uk

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Santa’s Magical Journey, Weekends 24 November – 16 December Everyday from 17 – 23 December Thursford Collection, Thursford, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0AS You’ll feel as though you have been transported to the North Pole at Thursford, minus the frost bite! Have a fantastical journey past the penguins and polar bears, elves and snowmen to Santa’s House to meet Father Christmas. There are gifts for the children and you can get a professional photo taken of your little one with Santa to take home! www.thursford.com

Santa Cruise, 1 –24 December Broads Tours, The Bridge, Wroxham, Norfolk, NR12 8RX Come aboard the Santa Cruise for an hour of festive fun. Children can take part in Christmas quizzes, a colouring competition and sing-alongs. Santa’s pixies will serve mulled wine and mince pies for adults and soft drinks and a festive cookie for children. You’ll find Santa in his saloon where he will give out named presents for every child. Tickets must be booked in advance. www.broadstours.co.uk

Audley End Miniature Railway

The Magic of Christmas at Mead Open Farm, 1-23 December (excluding Mondays and Tuesdays) and Christmas Eve Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington, Bedfordshire, LU7 9JH Not only can you meet Father Christmas here, children can listen to a group story with the man himself, walk through the magical enchanted forest, make your own bear in the workshop, go to reindeer flying school, make reindeer food and decorate gingerbread in Merry Berry’s Christmas Kitchen. www.meadopenfarm.co.uk

Santa’s Grotto Brampton, Weekends 1-16, 20-24 December, 8.30am-7.10pm Buckden Road, Brampton, Huntingdon, PE28 4NF Santa’s elves will start things off with some singing and dancing and then Mrs Christmas will show the children how to decorate their own gingerbread biscuit. Then it’s time to meet Santa who will read an enchanting story, after which, the children can choose their toy to take home. www.frostsgardencentres.co.uk/gardencentres/brampton

Santa and His Real Live Reindeer, Selected dates until 24 December Hearts Delight Home and Garden Centre, Long Road, Lawford, Manningtree, Essex, CO11 2EF For another year, Hearts Delight garden centre is hosting Father Christmas and three of his very friendly live reindeer! You can see Santa’s workshop and the busy elves making toys, meet Percy the Polar Bear as well as the gorgeous puppies. By that time, Santa will be waiting to hear all your Christmas wishes and give out presents. www.hearts-delight.co.uk

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Father Christmas at Fairhaven, 15-16 December, 11am to 5pm,

An Audience with Father Christmas

Steam Trains to Santa, 1, 2, 9, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 December Bure Valley Railway, Wroxham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk Come and visit Santa in the Broads on a Steam Train. Roll up to Santa’s Grotto, with Wroxham station dressed beautifully in twinkling lights to get everybody into the festive spirit. Steam Trains to Santa departs from Wroxham travelling to Santa’s Grotto, where Santa and his railway sleigh are there to welcome you all. Let Santa know what you’re hoping for on Christmas Morning and receive a personalised early Christmas present from Santa himself. Entertainment and festive refreshments for all the family add to the Christmas magic, before climbing aboard the train for the return journey to Wroxham. www.bvrw.co.uk/events/santa

Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, School Road, South Walsham NR13 6DZ Have yourself a twinkly woodland Christmas experience. Take a stroll through our illuminated winter woodland garden to meet the reindeer and visit Father Christmas tucked away among the trees. There will be live music, illuminations and an Elves’ Workshop with free Christmas crafts and face painting to keep the children busy. Warm up with hot food in the tearoom. Garden entry applies for adults (£6.85) and £8 per child to visit Father Christmas and receive a present (includes garden entry). Booking essential. www.fairhavengarden.co.uk

An audience with Father Christmas, 15, 16, 19, 20 December, 10am-4.30pm Holkham Hall, North Norfolk This is one of the most magical visits to father Christmas in Norfolk, in one of the most splendid settings - which means it’s one of the most popular! £18 adult, £18 child (aged 0 to 16 years), booking essential. www.holkham.co.uk/events/christmas-atholkham/an-audience-with-father-christmas

For more festive family-friendly events taking place this month visit www.eastlife.co.uk/christmas Stay up-to-date with events in your area by joining our ‘What’s on’ Facebook groups: www.facebook.com/groups/whatsoncambs www.facebook.com/groups/whatsonnorfolk www.facebook.com/groups/whatsonsuffolk

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Food Drink news

Food & Drink

Happiness is in the Hamper If you dream of tucking into Norfolk’s finest produce this Christmas then make sure you pre-order ‘The Grand Dial House Christmas Hamper’, created by The Dial House in Reepham, Norfolk. The restaurant has created a collection of tasty food and treats which features everything you need for an indulgent festive feast including favourites from The Dial House, its

additional restaurant The Farmyard in Norwich and its suppliers such as Pump Street and Norfolk Raider. The hamper costs £195 and must be pre-ordered. A smaller ‘Deluxe’ hamper, priced £70 is also available. Hampers must be collected on either Saturday 22 or Sunday 23 December from The Dial House between 11am & 1pm. www.thedialhouse.org.uk

An Exotic Christmas For the first time the Giggling Squid in Norwich and Bury St Edmunds is offering a Christmas day sitting. Between 12pm – 4pm visitors can enjoy festive fun and frivolities Thai style. Guests can expect a Thai Feast (£60pp) with sharing dishes chosen personally by founder Pranee Laurillard. Dishes include Giant Prawn Satay with Exotic Thai Rainbow Salad; Chive and Black Pepper Squid; 12-Hour Slow Cooked Beef Rib and Red Snapper with Kang Som Curry. Just one dessert is never enough this time of year, so Giggling Squid’s Christmas Day menu showcases a trio, including a Coconut and Pineapple Finger; Salted Caramel Soufflé and the rich decadent Chocolate Melt. Tables must be booked in advance. www.gigglingsquid.com

Dining Pop Up at the Sir Garnet, Norwich One of Norwich’s best loved pubs is supporting the city’s food scene with a series of monthly dining pop-ups with neighbouring stalls from Norwich Market. The concept at the Sir Garnet will encourage current customers to engage with the array of food offerings which have sprung up throughout the market. The next pop up will be taking place 3-5 December, 12-3pm and 6-9pm, and will offer a taste of Chile with homemade cuisine from Cocina Mia. Many of the dishes are made from traditional family recipes and use ingredients sourced from Norwich market. The exclusive three-day menu includes small plates such as Humita’s (parcels of steamed corn and basil) and seafood empanadas as well as larger plates; Chorrillana (Chimichuri seasoned steak) Chilean chicken casserole and a sea bass fried fillet sandwich.

The idea coincides with the launch of its new ‘The Sir Garnet’ newspaper, which features news, local history and fun facts from the Market Place. For more information visit www.thesirgarnet.co.uk/events

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Cambridge Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour, (www.cambridgefoodtour.com) shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…

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The rooftop at The Varsity Hotel

FESTIVE DRINKS & CURES FOR THE MORNING AFTER I thought I would never get into the Christmas mood this year with temperatures more like the Southern hemisphere. White Christmas’ seem to be something of the past. I’ve always loved the festive season, but when I was living in Cape Town I found it really difficult to get into the seasonal spirit. Temperatures over there are close to 28°C that time of the year and instead of snuggling up around a roaring fire in the comfort of your home, we would gather around the braai outside. With moving to the countryside of Saffron Walden in 2002, this all changed. Snow would arrive quite early in the season, sometimes as early as November. It is hard to believe, but I remember, that we would always get snowed in around the 8th of that month. A good excuse to get the mulled wine and mince pies going and to meet up with the local villagers in the pub after long country walks. Christmas in Cambridge is ‘wearing a new jacket’ this year! Have you seen the stunning lights in the city centre? Instead of the traditional Christmas tree, there is now a walk-through illuminated tree, and the Guildhall and many of the trees around the city will also be picked out with glittering strands and golden uplighters. The new illuminations will also include enhanced schemes on Green Street, Bridge Street and Magdalene Bridge.

This exciting lighting scheme has to be celebrated! So here is where I would be heading off to for a festive drink, and of course not to forget the morning after partying to refuel…

Swanky cocktails • The University Arms for posh notch • Novi Cambridge for fantastic botanical cocktails • 196 Bar - go dirty for a dirty Martini • The Gonville Hotel, great for live jazz music • Six Cambridge for the amazing views • SmokeWorks – stop by for happy hour and for sharing boards (vegan options available) • The Gin Lab - The Green Street Gin is only available here

Want something warming? • Old Ticket Office - Mulled wine • Foy Cafe - Mulled wine • The Royal Standard - Mulled apple juice and mulled cider • The Pintshop - Mulled Sloe Gin

The morning after • The Petersfield - Great Bloody Mary and Bottomless Brunch • The Free Press Pub - Bloody Mary with homemade horseradish vodka and pub grub • Novi Cambridge - If you need a caffeine fix try the Espresso Martini

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On the Menu

Written by Ben Aveling www.radmorefarmshop.co.uk

hristmas Day is a time to be indulgent and when it comes to lunch, the star of the show is of course, the turkey! If you’re planning a family festive feast and want to make it a meal to remember, then Ben Aveling has the answers. We’ve asked the Cambridge based poultry and egg farmer, retail and online entrepreneur, food producer, butcher, chef and restauranteur to share his expert advice on how to cook up a storm in the kitchen. As long as I can remember I have loved Christmas. I would like to take this up a notch. I LOVE Christmas, more than anyone and I challenge anyone to prove to me otherwise. Because of this love I have made it my personal mission to provide Christmas cheer to families all over Cambridge by providing the best ingredients for a Christmas dinner. Over the years this has become more of an obsession. As you can imagine my Christmas dinners are never short of epic and today I’m going to let you into some of my best tips to sourcing and cooking your Christmas turkey as well as what I believe will make your Christmas special.

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So where do I start? Buy the best turkey you can afford - it’ll make your Christmas You probably already do just that, but for those of you reading this who don’t, it’s possibly the most important part of your Christmas dinner. Quality food whether it be meat or even the potatoes, shine through. It’s very difficult to spoil good bacon or dislike a nice red wine. In this category the most important thing is the meat! I recommend the Kelly Bronze. I have sold them for a long time now and I’m always astounded by the quality. Ditch the cookbooks This is a controversial tip. My reason for this is that if you buy the right turkey, make sure you taste that turkey! Don’t cover up the flavour. If you softly brine a turkey or just season it well, I assure you that will be sufficient. Keep it juicy There’s many ways to do this and my way will differ to many but I like to cover the bird entirely in Radmore Streaky Bacon, cover with foil and pop it in the oven. Wait until the last 40 minutes and take the foil off, crisp the bacon for 30 mins and take it off. You can put the bird back in without foil to crisp the skin. Keep the steam in Place the bird into a deep baking dish on a bed of onions, garlic and some stock if you wish. Top with water or stock to half or three quarter up the dish and then attempt the

previous tip! It’s a great way of gently cooking the bird and helping it to keep juicy too! Upside down This is where “fortune favours the brave” but I have attempted this with great success. Cook the bird upside down, breast down. The theory for this is that the juices run down with gravity and keep the great extra juicy, only turning it over at the end to crisp the skin. Cooking times Probably the most simple of the tips but it’s very effective; cooking times. This is essential because this stops you worrying and you can enjoy that extra glass of eggnog with the family! Poultry: 20 mins per lb of weight and add 20 mins to this number and that’s your cooking time based on Fan Oven of 180/190 °C. For Beef/Red Meat: If you’d like it a tad pink this will work as above but do it for 15 mins per lb and drop the end 15 to make it pinker. This is a thrifty tip to help the pocket - buy a smaller turkey than you perhaps need This may sound crazy but think about how many years have gone by and you’ve been so fed up of turkey sandwiches you’re glad next Christmas is a year away. The most expensive part of Christmas food is the meat so don’t buy more than you need and go all out on the trimmings! Pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, the works. This will massively help your pocket and actually look like you’ve done more! Best time to buy - get the order in! Butchers always have cut off days to order so keep an eye on those dates, but in my business we have always taken orders right up to Christmas Eve. In short there’s no correct time to buy but don’t leave it to chance. Get your name down on a beautiful bird but make sure the butcher knows the size you’d like and that they are confident they can deliver that size and this will make the buying process easy for you. You can rest assured when the orders in, you just have to pop and collect it on your chosen day. Leftovers - it’s easy to have zero waste This is by far the biggest question we get asked; what about the left overs? Any tips? Well now that you mention it, here’s a few of my favourite leftover tips for cooked turkey: Turkey stock: Just google a recipe for plain stock. It’s very simple and as your bones have already been roasted this will help the stock to not be greasy. Risotto: Made using the stock and most importantly use up any spare crispy bacon bits! Amazing!

Curry: Simply my favourite, just be lazy and buy a nice jar and throw in the cooked meat until it’s cooked through. You’ll be amazed how tasty this is. Sandwiches: I know, you’ve already nailed this one but use it as an opportunity to make an awesome sandwich. Get some fantastic sourdough, thick with rich butter one side and a spread of cranberry sauce in the other and load it up with mayo and stuffing! Flat breads: This is great and very different. Buy some simple wrap/tortillas, spread with hummus and a touch of harissa, with crunchy salad and top with the turkey. You can also heat the turkey in a bit of harissa with some oil if you fancy it warm. Wines I am not a big drinker but I always have a glass of wine with my Christmas meal. I could go on about what wines to drink but honestly, walk into any independent wine shop (I use Baccanalia in Cambridge) and tell them what you are looking for and how much you’re looking to spend. The independent wine shops are usually very good quality, very good on price and have a real interest in giving you the wine you’ll really love.

Ben has been in the farming, food produce and retail business since 2006. He is the owner of Radmore Farm Shop Online, Cambridge’s only independent online food supermarket selling food and produce from his farm, local businesses and high quality nationwide brands.

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EAT, DRINK... Written by Mike Garside

STOP

Keeping fit and healthy over the festive season

better start with an insincere apology to everyone I’m about to upset with the following nuggets of advice. I’m banking on the fact that I’m probably still just a tad faster than most of them, so here goes anyway...

“Life is like a box of chocolates. It doesn’t last long if you’re fat”*

Well, that’s cheered you all up. He’s going to tell us the feast’s off now I can hear you all thinking. For most of us the religious engagement went on its long vacation years ago. So if the cheese festival’s cancelled, then you may be ready to holiday!

Only the proper health professionals aren’t of course allowed to say that. They’re bogged down in the world of modern political correctness, endlessly pussy footing around the bleeding obvious, that being, that most of the UK’s adult population are eating and drinking themselves to death! Hunter-gathering a massive excess of calories every day, a lot of them in the form of alcohol. Quietly pickling themselves.

When does it all start to go wrong? In most part the Christmas gluttony starts in earnest sometime around mid November and lasts past New Years Eve. One big final push for the year. The collective excuse to throw caution to the wind and work your coronary arteries and liver enzymes towards the long vacation you’ve been promising yourself. Otherwise known in the trade as a premature death!

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Well no. I’m not actually, because I’m not a ‘proper doctor’ anymore so I don’t have to, and telling you you’re eating too much, drinking too much and smoking (naughty) has been proven to be almost a complete waste of time. And I’m no angel myself. Last year our Christmas celebrations started in our house early November with an over indulgence of cheese and mulled wine and resulted in a substantial weight gain by the new year. The supermarkets encourage us to start the festive food treats earlier and earlier every year, so that they can make more money, by selling us the same item multiple times. But if we are eating and drinking it all the time, it is no longer a special treat but a habit, and a bad one at that. This year we will be saving the festive treats for the festive season and not buying them until at least mid December.

Health

Are we bothered enough to change? Actually, the only person who can make a blind bit of a difference to your medium and long term well-being is you! It all comes down to the very simple notion of you “being bothered”. Bothered to think you want to change, bothered to change your existing habits and bothered to maintain the changes. Bothered to find out what needs to change in your life instead of expecting a doctor to tell you is a good first step. Bothered to feel hungry during some part of the day, and bothered to ignore your mouth telling you it needs something tasty, when your stomach’s still feeling bloated. Bothered to get out from in front of the TV and move more. Bothered to be nice to yourself over Christmas, nice to your liver, lungs and guts by not over indulging to excess in volume or duration. Where’s the secret fat burning tip, magic pill, gene therapy to shrink you, home liposuction kit? Sorry...run out of page. What a bother!

My Top Tip Treat yourself to a book called ‘Shine Rediscovering your Energy, Happiness and Purpose’ by Andy Cope and Gavin Oates and read Chapter 6 ‘Shining on the inside’. In fact read the whole book. Ps: Oh and get yourself a dog or borrow one - they always want to go for a walk, and will get you outside whatever the weather. *Quote from ‘Shine Rediscovering your Energy, Happiness and Purpose’ by Andy Cope and Gavin Oates

Mike Garside was a full time practicing UK GP until he started his Medical Supply Company, Valuemed, 18 years ago. He now works full time in the company as Medical Director. He lives in Norfolk with his wife and four dogs. www.valuemed.co.uk

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I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T

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Diabetes at Christmas? Xmas tips Ask for your FREE copy of our Diabetes at Christmas booklet, full of tips for enjoying the festive period.

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Health

Sleep Well

tay warm in bed this winter and take advantage of the longer nights to refresh your sleep routine, is the advice from The Sleep Council.

Dark mornings and evenings can have lots of amazing health benefits including helping you get a better night’s sleep. Melatonin - the hormone that stimulates sleep - is produced when daylight starts to fade, which occurs far earlier during winter. So take advantage of the fact that your body will fall asleep earlier and stay asleep for longer. However, with temperatures usually at their lowest during the early hours, the risk for many people is waking up shivering and being too cold to get a good night’s rest. The Sleep Council has produced some top tips to help ensure we don’t turn into ice cubes during the night but stay warm as toast: • Wear night clothes such as pyjamas or a large T-shirt to keep you cosy. Natural fibres such as wool, cotton or silk are better than synthetic materials. • Have a warm bath just before you go to bed. This will raise your body temperature which in turn will also help to make you sleepy.

• Have a warm milky drink before bed. • Try to take some exercise which will get the circulation going. It is also worth looking at the bedroom, the bed and the bedding all of which play a part in keeping you insulated in the cold night air. • Keep the bedroom around 16° to 18° and free from draughts. • Avoid a saggy bed. It may be nice to cuddle up to share a bit of body heat when you first get into bed, but it can be very uncomfortable and clammy during the night if you are thrown together by a bed that isn’t giving you the correct support. • Look for a mattress which has a thicker side for use during the winter. A soft sleeping surface is a better insulator than a flat one Use a fleecy underblanket to retain the heat. • Choose a duvet with a high tog rating or use several layers of bedding rather than one single layer. Layers will trap the air and are easily removed if you get too hot. • A hot water bottle is an ideal way to keep cosy once in bed. Make sure it has a cover on it to avoid scalding and also so that it won’t feel cold in the middle of the night. • Electric blankets are ideal. Underblankets will warm the bed up before you retire for the night, while overblankets maintain a constant temperature throughout the night.

A Warm Winter Wake Up

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Fashion

Wearing Winter Written by Ruth Essex

White

hen there is a sprinkling of frost in the morning my sartorial thoughts turn to white; beautiful, soft, winter white. For those who aren’t attracted to wearing colour, winter white is a lovely alternative.

Organic Cashmere Cable Hat, Natural White, £55

The exact shade of white that is most flattering on you depends predominately on your skin tone. Whites range from the brilliant, icy whites with a bluish tinge, to the warmer, yellow based, oyster creams. The joy of winter white is that it is white softened by a hint of ivory so flatters nearly all skin tones: it is neither cool nor warm, but somewhere in the middle. Those silver foxes, platinum blondes, cool brunettes and raven-haired beauties out there look brilliant in crisp and cool brilliant whites, sharp and icy, contrasted with deep navies and black or soft dove greys. However, if you have warmth in your hair, eyes or skin, then ivory and cream is the way to go to enhance your natural beauty. Your whites will be creamier, and you will look fabulous complimenting your winter white with camels, toffee and chocolate. Winter white is a neutral colour, so maximise the texture for impact like chunky Arran jumpers that are full of

interesting patterns. What about angora with its slightly fluffy, hazy texture? Kitten soft cashmere doesn’t have a great deal of texture but any fabric that feels that good against your skin will be forgiven for any lack of texture. You can add an ivory camisole for the added luxury of a satin feel against your skin. A winter white coat is a bit of a luxury due to the drycleaning requirements, however you will feel glamorous and elegant wearing it. It takes day clothes into evening wear and worn with jeans adds an insouciance to your look. The sheer lack of practicality makes winter white an indulgence, but you don’t have to worry about matching up tones, they will all blend together, and the differing shades add another element of interest to your outfit. There is no better time than Christmas to reward ourselves by wearing something decadent, so why not just indulge and enjoy? Ruth Essex, - Stylist & Image Consultant ruthcrofts@btinternet.com - Tel: 07900 910 666 Gassato Textured Roll Neck Sweater, Soft White, £125

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The Little

BLACK

dress Nothing beats a little black dress! This stylish LBD from the Rochelle Humes collection at New Look will see you through the party season Throw on some shimmer, sparkle and heels for a party look or dress down for festive gatherings with boots and a winter coat. Dress £24.99 Belt £7.99 Earrings £5.99 www.newlook.com/uk/rochelle-humes

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Eastlife’s Emma Kemsley steps inside the styling suite at intu Lakeside

’m a self-confessed shopaholic. I love clothes and I love shopping. I can spend hours scrolling through the apps on my phone looking at the latest trends, subconsciously spending thousands of pounds. In fact, I recently put myself on a spending ban for one whole month, and I’m embarrassed to admit how much I saved. Let’s just say I clearly have a problem, but hey, better clothes than crack, right? So, when I heard intu Lakeside, in Thurrock, Essex, offer a free personal styling service, I jumped at the chance to try it.

It’s a problem of mine, like many other women; a wardrobe full of clothes and nothing to wear! With Christmas just around the corner, I’ve been desperate to find the perfect party outfit and I was hoping the personal styling session would do just that. The swanky styling suite is located on Brompton Walk. On arrival I was greeted by the lovely Carlene, intu Lakeside’s personal stylist. We sat down for a chat over Prosecco and chocolate (what’s not to love about that?), and Carlene asked questions about how I perceive my style, sizing, the colours I like to wear and what I wanted to achieve from the session. Friendly and fashionably fabulous, Carlene

was knowledgeable, passionate about her job and her 16 years of experience shone through. I told her my unachievable life-long goal of being effortlessly…she finished my sentence: “cool”. “It’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear it,” she said. To be effortlessly cool you need to have confidence in what you wear. My first tip from the fashion pro. I explained my need for something classic and chic that will see me through a month of festivities. After we discussed my budget, Carlene pointed out it was probably unlikely I’d wear the same thing five times in one month. Of course she was right, who was I trying to kid? However, she immediately knew which store to take me to. She already had an outfit in mind. We spent some further time discussing my body shape (I’m a V shape, FYI) and colouring before heading out into the mall to shop! Carlene led me to Marks & Spencer’s, somewhere I would never think of shopping, but who was I to argue with someone who has styled for Marie Claire, Selfridges, music videos and high end and commercial shoots? I instantly loved the look she picked for me. A sleek pair of black tailored trousers with gold trim down the

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side – not too much sparkle, but just enough to say hello Christmas! She picked up a black cami and black courts to finish the look. I also picked up a pair of gold culottes before heading to the changing rooms. While I got changed, Carlene picked up some accessories, another top option and heels. She put together several looks and explained each one, taking note of what worked and what didn’t. She even convinced me to try an off the shoulder top, not my usual style, but somehow it worked. She busily swapped sizes and styles, and had me falling in love with a pair of black heels I didn’t know I needed and the same style of trouser but in teal! In the end I stuck with Carlene’s original choice of trouser and stopped by River Island to look at another top option, though my size wasn’t available. The whole experience was like shopping with a great friend; easy, relaxed, fun and at no point did I feel uncomfortable or obliged to buy.

Each personal styling session lasts approximately two to three hours. The service is completely free and there is no minimum spend fee or pressure to buy. Booking in advance is highly recommended. I love my trousers, I can’t stop thinking about the teal pair and I now kind of want a personal stylist on a daily basis – I wonder if I can put that on my Christmas list? After sharing the details of my fun fashion-filled afternoon, I have friends and family wanting to book a session… Carlene you’re going to be busy! For further details or to book your session visit www.intu.co.uk/lakeside/centre-information/shopping-at-thecentre

The service is available to everyone; men and women. It’s a great option for those looking for an outfit for an event such a big birthday celebration or a mother of the bride. It’s popular with women that have lost their way with their personal style after having a child or those who simply want to add classic staples or trends to their wardrobe. The team at intu Lakeside Personal Styling are available to help no matter what the style scenario.

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Plain Crepe Cami , Primark UK - £4

With Christmas just around the corner, Carlene has picked her favourite pieces currently in-store to help you dress for the party season!

Oasis Rainbow Sequin Pencil Skirt available at Debenhams and House of Fraser - £46

Rainbow Heels from Next - £34

Hobbs Henrietta Coat, available in House of Fraser and Debenhams - £229

Black Sequin Pouch Clutch available instore at Dorothy Perkins - £10

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Memories are made of this … Unexpected. Understated. Unique. Unpretentious. Just some of the words our delighted couples have used when describing their South Farm wedding. From your very first visit to the end of your special day, we take pride in guiding you through the perfect wedding; unobtrusively efficient, always approachable, and entirely focused on making your dream a reality.

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Top Tips For Finding

Your Dream Wedding Venue Written by Katrina Otter Instagram @katrinaotterwed

or the majority of couples, the first big decision they make about their wedding is their venue. Your venue sets the scene for your day, it can influence your wedding style and dictate how much of your budget is left for everything else! So, choosing your perfect venue is a hugely important step on your wedding planning journey. If you’re starting your search, then these are my top tips for finding your dream wedding venue. Start with the basics There are literally thousands of venues out there and they come in all styles and sizes and in every location. So, before you even begin researching and creating your shortlist, you need to start with the basics. What style of wedding do you want? Roughly how many guests do you want to invite? How much can you afford and where do you want to get married? Is onsite or nearby accommodation essential? Does your venue need to have a licence for ceremonies or a church nearby? You don’t need precise information here, just rough parameters that will help you narrow down your options when you start researching. Research Now’s the time to get out there and see just what’s available. Armed with basics, use a wedding venue website such as Coco Wedding Venues to search by location, style, capacity etc. Via Coco you can also contact venues directly and create your own

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shortlist, so it really is a fabulous wedding planning tool. Alternatively, an internet search using keywords that include the style of venue and location will help you find even more locations to check out. Keep notes Some couples create a spreadsheet so that they can easily compare all the venues they find, others use Pinterest or an app and some just go with an old-fashioned notebook. Whatever option works for you is just fine but don’t ignore the importance of keeping notes and records when you’re planning your wedding. Visit your shortlisted venues Make appointments to see your shortlisted venues and do a little prep work before you go. Write down a list of things you want to know or questions you need to ask. Do you want to check their availability for certain dates? Do you need to know about catering options, accommodation or payment schedules? You’ll find plenty of tips online for making the most of your venue visits. Know what you’re looking for What’s important to you in your wedding venue? Do you want open fires, quirky details, impressive interiors or luxury

Weddings

accommodation? Are you really keen to have a live band, fireworks, fine food or gorgeous outdoor spaces? Think about what you really want and then see what each venue can offer. Are you prepared to compromise or is everything on your list a must-have? Only you can answer this! Make sure you see everything Most venues are really great at showing you all the important areas when you visit but if there’s something you specifically want to see, don’t leave until you’ve seen it. It might be that you want to check out the baby changing facilities, the disabled toilets, the guest accommodation or the chairs for the wedding breakfast! This is your time to gather as much information as possible to make the most of your visit. Don’t be afraid to go back! There’s no need to feel under pressure to book when you visit venues. It’s a huge decision and it’s not one to be made lightly. Don’t ever be afraid to make a second or even third appointment. You need to be absolutely sure that you love your venue before you book.

Check the paperwork Once you’ve decided to go ahead and book your dream venue, always check the paperwork. Make sure that all the details contained in the booking reflect any conversations that you’ve had with the venue staff – if they’ve told you that something’s allowed or available without an extra charge, you should see this somewhere in your terms and conditions or at least in a covering note. Be sure you’re aware of all the payment dates, check the venue’s policy on damage deposits, arrival/departure times, minimum numbers and ask for clarification on anything you’re not sure on. Finally, sign on the dotted line, return everything to the venue and give yourself a big pat on the back – you’ve booked your wedding venue and the planning can now start in earnest! Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser with over 10 years experience. Find out how she could help you plan your wedding day at www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

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Business Accountants for Business People Discounts for mid week events

Trio’s Wedding & Event Catering

Whatever style or size of Event you have in mind Trio’s can help. Natalie & her team offer a personal and tailor made service ensuring your event, however large or small runs smoothly. Let us inspire you with our diverse range of Wedding, Buffet & Street Food Menu catering from formal to informal gatherings. Breakfasts can also be catered for to suit your venue & budget.

● Accounting and Bookkeeping ● Tax and Tax Planning ● Regulation and Compliance ● Advice and Support ● Fixed Fees ● Straight and Direct Communication ● Local Presence and National Strength ● We Do Not Charge By The Hour

Good Accounting is Good Business MIKE BARNES ACA T: 01 485 521 756 M: 07969 163021 E: mike.barnes@aims.co.uk www.aims.co.uk

If you are looking for a friendly but professional service with a high degree of flexibility then look no further. Contact us on 01508 522039 or email: tasty@trioscatering.co.uk New for 2018 - Mobile Horse Box Bar, Wood Fired Pizza Oven & Paella Pans for outdoor & corporate Events.

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Hall Green Farm | Norton Road | Loddon | Norwich | NR14 6DT

The charity Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) can help to cut your energy costs and household carbon footprint this winter with a free advice service

Daycare All Hallows in Ditchingham

A purpose-built centre for adults who are elderly or disabled.

What is on offer? • A FREE home energy advice visit with a goodie bag • Impartial advice in choosing the best energy tariff • Information on the national £140 Warm Home Discount • Help to make your home as warm and healthy as possible

Do you qualify? This service is available to residents in Fenland and South Kesteven over the winter months.

We’re open 5 days a week. Monday-Friday, 9.30am-3.30pm.

• • • • •

Socialise & make new friends Enjoy games & activities Live entertainment Bathing service Offers a valuable break for carers • We offer a FREE trial session

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Call Linda for a chat & a cup of tea!

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01986 891999

Martin Lewis Talks...

Consumer

Free cash in time for Christmas

here are laws against bribery. Luckily they don’t apply to banks wanting to bung you free money in return for your custom. There’s a banking price war on right now which means you can earn up to £200 for switching account. So take a bribe, and get some extra cash in the kitty before Christmas. And don’t just do this for the money. I get more complaints about banks than any other sector apart from energy, yet people loyally stick with the perpetrators for years. If that’s you – stop bitching and start switching – many of the accounts that pay have decent service too.

When do you get the money? Within 30 calendar days of switching, so do it now and it should be in time for Christmas. -Free £125 plus 2% cashback on bills. Switch to most NatWest.co.uk current accounts and you’ll get £125. Among those is the NatWest Reward account where for a monthly £2 fee you get 2% cashback on household bills that you pay via direct debit from it, including council tax, water, energy and broadband – many can earn £100 a year from this. Its minimum monthly pay-in is £1,500 (equal to an annual salary of £21,500).

Switching is easy, they do it all for you. Before I get to the best-buys, let me deal with the “isn’t switching bank a nightmare?” question. I’m sure you’ve heard stories. Yet do ask people, when, this happened. For five years now we’ve had the switching guarantee in place, and that changed everything - for the better. To get the free cash you’ll be credit scored (it’s not too harsh) and will need to go through bank’s official switching services. The switching guarantee means you’re switched within seven working days. Your new bank moves direct debits and standing orders for you (some require at least two to be moved), and closes your old account. All payments to your old account are automatically forwarded.

The top current account give-aways These change regularly, for full daily updated details and all the tips and eligibility criteria see my full guide at www.moneysavingexpert.com/bestbankaccounts. Here’s a quick summary of the top deals at the time of writing… - Free £200 (£150 upfront, £50 if you stay) + 5% fixed savings. Switch to the hsbc.co.uk Advance account and you can get £150 free cash. Stay with it for a year and you’ll get another £50. It also lets you save up to £250 per month in its linked 5% fixed regular savings account. With HSBC like most banks there’s a minimum monthly pay in. Here it’s a relatively large £1,750 a month - equivalent to £25,900 a year. This is effectively just a way to get you to pay in your salary. Yet if you don’t earn enough to meet this, there’s a way around the rule. If you earn £1,000 a month, then just withdraw £750 and pay it straight back in and you will qualify.

When do you get the money? It’ll be paid in February - so way after Christmas - and you’ll need to keep your account till then. -Free gadgets plus top service. Though not free cash, switch to FirstDirect.com and you can choose a free gift from choice of gadgets (e.g. £120 Amazon Echo or £120 Fitbit), or a £150 Expedia voucher. Plus it’s won every customer service polls I’ve done for the past eight years - 89% rate it ‘great’. You’ll also get a £250 0% overdraft, and can open a linked 5% regular saver. The minimum monthly pay in is £1,000 (equal to a £12,675 salary). When do you get the freebies? Within 2 weeks of paying in your first £1,000 you’re emailed instructions on how to get the freebie which can then take up to a month or so to arrive. - Free £125 M&S vouchers with no monthly pay in. Switch to bank.marksandspencer.com and you get a £125 M&S gift card with no-minimum monthly pay in. Though if you do pay in £1,250 a month (equal to a £17,080 salary) you can earn an additional £5 a month voucher for a year. It also has a linked 5% fixed regular savings account. Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 13million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert. com/latesttip.

eastlife.co.uk

JAGUAR

F TYPE Convertible Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars

asked the man who delivered the Jaguar F Type Convertible if he would mind just opening the front bonnet to see if there was any luggage space. Well other sports cars have a boot under the bonnet! His face wore one of those looks that suggested he might be pandering to the request of some slightly mad woman, but he very obligingly pulled a lever and peered inside. “Nope” he said, “just one whopping engine!” I was so disappointed. Well ok, I had THE most gorgeous car in the world sitting on my drive, but I had plans to go Christmas present shopping with my daughter. There was no chance of that in this two-seater sports car, with one small boot in the rear.

But out on the road, boot capacity was the last thing on my mind. The beautiful exterior is a magnet for every passer-by. There is no door handle on show, but

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press the remote and they emerge, which is a good security measure. Slide into the low placed sports seats and everything fits and hugs. When pressing the ignition button there is a terrific roar, which was a little embarrassing when I had an early start. I must go and apologise to my neighbours. What faces the driver in the quality interior with its heady smell of leather, is a large 8â&#x20AC;? touchscreen and a dash which is clean and uncluttered. Fiddle with the well labelled air con buttons and two vents rise majestically centre dash. The steering wheel is flat bottomed in typical sportscar style and paddleshift gears sit behind if you fancy a little more excitement. In fact, changing gear and breathing become linked and there is a feeling of being one with the car as you listen to the poppopping of the throaty switchable active sports exhaust, which is another reason for having the top down. The black fabric top slides very quickly into the boot space and in this mode, and with side windows in place and a small wind deflector behind the seats, it is possible for a wind free ride. The stop start is one of the best I have experienced and the engine will start immediately you need to move off. You do need a light right foot though as acceleration and subsequent increase in speed is very quick. The doors on this convertible are the same as most two door cars and are very wide which you have to think about when parking next to other cars. The rear parking aid makes manoeuvring the wide chassis easy.

Motoring

To celebrate 70 years of Jaguar sports cars, since the reveal of the XK120 in 1948, Jaguar has launched the Chequered Flag Special Edition of the F-Type, itself winning 170 global awards. Based on my road test car, the R-Dynamic Convertible, this car features subtle visual enhancements and a chequered flag logo. When having the opportunity to drive the Jaguar F Type Convertible, boot capacity is somehow just not important. So sorry if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a Christmas present from me this year but I was just too busy driving the most beautiful sports car in the world.

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Must-Have CHRISTMAS

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he countdown to Christmas is on, and those playing host will be turning their minds to gifts, food and games in the weeks ahead. In amongst the endless to-do list, decorating can easily be rushed or forgotten. This is why interior design service Designs Direct, has introduced a brand new Seasonal Package that simplifies decking our halls with boughs of holly. Whether you already have decorations or need to purchase new ones, the team of interior designers, available through Designs Direct, will help you sprinkle your home with Christmas magic. By just sending some pictures of the areas in your home that you would like to decorate, the designers will get to work making your whole scheme cohesive, magical and fun. Cindy Fuller, founder of Designs Direct, knows all the tips and tricks required to find high street products that look like they have been sourced from luxury and high-end stores. Here are her must-have festive dupes so that hosts can purchase decadent decorations for a budgetfriendly price.

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Drinks cart If you have space, drinks carts have made a considerable comeback lately along with home bars. Oliver Bonas offers a beautiful chic option in golden tones for £435, but if you are looking for something more affordable and just as stylish, you can make a saving of more than 50% with the Urban Outfitters dupe drinks trolley, currently priced £150.

Festive scented candles Introducing scented candles will fill your space with gentle light and soothe you and your Christmas guests’ souls. Whether it’s my home or someone else’s, the first thing that strikes me when entering is the scent. Your visitors will immediately get a lovely welcome with a waft through to their olfactory nerve. Try something that looks and smells like Christmas! Like the Winter Indulgence Botanical Candle from The White Company for £85 or for something similar that won’t need you taking out a second mortgage try Stoneglows version for £26.

Christmas Crackers

Image: Oliver Bonas | www.oliverbonas.com

Christmas crackers are essential accessories and entertainment for any Christmas party. They have been a festive favourite since around 1850 when sweet maker Tom Smith from London came across French ‘bonbon’ sweets whilst living in Paris; he tried to sell them on return to his home city with little success. While seated by the fireside one evening he saw the sparks from the fireplace and came up with the ingenious idea of adding them instead within beautiful packaging that could be pulled apart and generate a cracking noise! They became an enormous hit and the rest is history. These luxury Nancy and Betty Studio crackers will brighten up any festive table at £49.95. But Meri Meri offers a similar effect for just £22.50.

Lights Light up your home to make it a magical Christmas wonderland! Place little lights in glass vases or even around your garland and decorations. Battery operated lights are easy to hide and transform any dull space. But there’s no need to spend a fortune when there are so many LED lights on the market. Pick up lights from John Lewis at £20, but if you want to save even more money, Primark is offering similar with a set of 100 battery operated string lights for only £7!

Rainbow baubles Rainbow decorations are a new Christmas trend and why not stray from tradition and add some colour to your tree? Try the vibrant rainbow baubles from Anthropologie priced £14 for a more luxurious and metallic feel. Alternatively, if you prefer a more classic rainbow, there are decorations from Primark are just £1.50 and bound to win over younger guests.

Image: Prmark

Faux fur throws Being wrapped up by the fire with friends and family is the best way to warm up and unwind after a cold winter’s day! Hence there’s no shortage of snuggle blankets on the market, including the gorgeous Grey Faux Fur Throw from Habitat for £120. However the Dunelm Mill dupe is just as silky soft and only a fraction of the price at £25.

Champagne flutes It’s not only festive accessories that have affordable dupes – home accessories to decorate your Christmas table do too! Champagne Glasses by Sophie Conran have added festive cheer and will add an extra hint of glamour to your Christmas table. But you will pay £34 for a pack two, whereas Ikea’s – Konungslig Champagne Glass duo that also boasts patterned detail is just £6. Designs Direct offers the expertise of interior designers for 80% less. Made possible by the designers sourcing from not only their own contacts but also from high street and online stores. You can find out more about the new festive service and Designs Direct dupe experts at www.designsdirect.co.uk/individual-packages Image: Dunelm | www.dunelm.com

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The Say hello to Wendy Howes, our gardening columnist, who will be revealing the trials and tribulations of her garden restoration project every month…

s I write the trees are adorned in their golden autumnal crowns, which thin with each day as their spent leaves flutter to the ground. We have been blessed with an incredibly mild autumn so far, and it does feel like Christmas has come charging out of nowhere.

to add a few Siberian dogwoods (Cornus alba Sibirica) whose brilliant, bright red stems look particularly striking against a stark winter backdrop.

Daphne odora Aureomarginata

Our local farmer has planted a field of winter wheat so whilst the various oaks and willows will look stark by the time you read this, they will at least have a lush green background to set them off. Like many of us, I am a great lover of flowers and bursts of colour throughout the garden. In the height of spring and early summer it is very easy to get carried away at your local garden centre, buying anything and everything that is in bloom. We have all done it and it is exactly what the garden centres bank on us doing. The real talent lies in taking some time to consider what you want the garden to look like in the depths of winter. The best gardens are those offering points of interest throughout the year.

Last year I acquired some Daphne shrubs which I potted up and placed close to our entrances. My favourite is Daphne odora Aureomarginata. In an attempt to attract the early pollinators, it is adorned in clusters of heavily scented pretty pink blooms in early spring. However, it is the beautiful cream margined leaves which I find particularly striking, especially in the depths of winter. Daphne’s are notoriously hard to propagate, hence they come with quite a hefty price tag. Frustratingly, mine have struggled with the heat this year and I was faced with no choice but to give them a rather brutal prune and now wait patiently, with green fingers firmly crossed. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year ahead.

Read more on Wendy’s blog at www.wendyswholeworld.com Cornus alba Sibirica

We are very lucky to have an evergreen backbone to our rose garden with the formal hedging provided by both Taxus buccata and Ilex crenata. In time it would be lovely

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MOVE

Top tips for moving at Christmas with Children

ousebuilder David Wilson Homes (www.dwh.co.uk), which is currently building homes in Cambridgeshire at Romans’ Edge in Godmanchester and Great Pastures in Warboys, is offering homebuyers its five top tips for moving home safely with young children over the festive period. With a range of properties across the county that will be ready to move in before the big day, the developer wants to ensure people have a hassle-free move and keep their children safe. Jason Hearn, sales director at David Wilson Homes South Midlands, said, “It’s commonly known that the most frequently-occurring accidents happen in the home, and the last thing we want is for them to happen part-way through your move!

1) Install safety gates If you have a child under two, it is recommended that you install safety gates on the stairs as soon as you can, even before the child enters the house. This sounds drastic, but they will be very excited and keen to explore and you may be busy with the move and easily distracted from supervising them as closely as you would normally.

2) Keep windows and doors secure While moving, doors and windows are often open as people come in and out the house with boxes. Make sure that windows and doors are secure while you’re busy

sorting out the new house and ensure your child can’t run or climb out while you’re pre-occupied with unboxing.

3) Keep furniture at a safe distance We all know toddlers love to climb, so when it comes to moving day, although you may not have decided where you want your furniture to be positioned, we recommend that you keep it away from windows until you are sure. Once you do settle on a final position, it is advisable to secure furniture in place, particularly if it’s a heavy cabinet or table.

4) Explore the garden Gardens are a great place for children to play, but it’s a good idea to have a walk around your new garden to check whether your children might be able to find their way into neighbouring gardens or out onto the street, and secure the area if necessary. As babies and young children can drown in as little as 5cm of water, if your garden has a pond or water butt, it is recommended that you install appropriate safety measures as soon as possible.

5) Get used to your surroundings If you’ve moved to a new area or even just a new street, it is likely that the roads as well as the volume and speed of traffic will be unfamiliar. We recommend you practice the new school run if you can – even with older children. To help children get used to a new area, research it with them so they can get excited about the new opportunities.

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Sir Alfred Munnings forged much of his early reputation from time spent as a war artist in France during 1918. In 2019, for the first time in 100 years, 41 paintings by Munnings are returning together from the Canadian War Museum, Ottawa. In this once-in-a-lifetime display the finished paintings will be shown side by side with the surviving sketchbooks, from the museum’s own collection, that inspired them. An additional 150 of Munnings life’s works will be hung chronologically throughout the museum to give a sense of the man and his art.

23 March - 3 November 2019 2pm-5pm, Wednesday to Friday and Bank Holiday Mondays Adults £8 (inc seniors) Children £1 Concessions for students and National Art Pass holders • Group bookings welcome Car and coach parking • Cafe and shop The Munnings Art Museum Castle Hill, Dedham, CO7 6AZ www.munningsmuseum.org.uk enquiries@munningsmuseum.org.uk 01206 322127 Reg. charity no. 310671

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Arts

The Arts Column Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right | www.nortonwaygallery.com

t last, the pinnacle of the year, December, the busiest and most exciting month on the calendar. Amidst the buzz and sparkling chaos, take time out and visit one of the many dazzling fine art shows, on offer across the county.

To the West of the region, in the picturesque village of Woburn, there is a super treat in store. Seasoned art dealer, Johann Bester, has brought together some of the finest contemporary artists from across the country to adorn the walls and plinths of his brand new venue, Woburn Mosaic. Having opened its doors in November, its debut exhibition will be in full swing throughout the festive countdown. The gallery is specializing exclusively in original pieces of art, with a catalogue of paintings, sculpture, glass and ceramics. This first collection will be a mixed show of diverse and impressive artists. Amongst the host of dynamic and thought provoking talent you will find names such as Jonathan Hateley, Jane Rhodes and Justin Tew. Those familiar with Tewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tranquil and impressionist coastal views may be surprised to find new, rather different works from his inspired palette. Returning to his roots of wildlife, many of Justinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest pieces focus on the portraiture of endangered species. Sensitive and characterful studies of elephants, rhinos and pangolins, ooze warmth and narrative. Each individual, softly

Autumn Backwater by Jane Rhodes

captured soul tells its story and demands that the viewer takes heed. With a similar gentle approach, pastel painter Jane Rhodes invites us to enter her world of shimmering daubs and dashes. Earthy, vibrant marks and shapes combine to create welcoming vistas of woodland, coastline and townscape. Whether Jane is portraying a leafy, beckoning sunlit glade or a bustling, busy street, we find ourselves drawn to her lively and harmonic scenes. No less commanding is the organic and mesmerising sculpture of Jonathan Hateley. Born in the West Midlands, Jonathan now lives and creates from his studio in Kent. Originally crafting models for theatre and film his work retains the strong sense of drama that his creative origins are steeped in. Beautifully textured, intricate surfaces flow and ebb across bronze figures of man, woman, beast and some creatures of pure imagination! Poised characters, reminiscent from fairy tales, are clocked with arrangements of leaves, stems and all things natural. Awe-inspiring and endearing, his wondrous life forms seem truly born from nature. The list is endless. Johann has pulled together a superb body of known and emerging talent. Will Shakespeare and Stuart Akroyd are two of many that are representing glassware, whilst Richard Baxter and Ikuko Iwamoto form part of the ceramic contingent. Whatever your preferred medium of art, this gallery is sure to satisfy and enrich your day, or private collection!

Elephant Study by Justin Tew

December 2018, Woburn Mosaic 13/14 Market Place, Woburn, MK17 9PZ www.woburnmosaic.co.uk

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Peterborough. Just a ‘new town’? There’s more beneath the surface. Treasures. The new exhibition at Peterborough Museum 25 Aug 2018 - 6 Jan 2019

Download your free guide at vivacity.org/treasures or visit Peterborough Museum

Arts News

for December

An Active Reality Adventure Story Opens in King’s Lynn Last month saw the launch of ‘Reveal’ in King’s Lynn; an active reality adventure story that will see thousands take part across the town and at various locations in West Norfolk. Active Reality is a way of describing a project that brings multiple elements together in an episodic manner – in this case live performance, augmented reality and large-scale projection. These are then laid over a specific location to create a reality-bending adventure. There will be five live theatre sequences each Sunday from 25 November at 4pm, taking place across heritage protection sites in King’s Lynn until 23 December. During this time, the public are invited to follow the story and use their mobile phones to discover clues and other content each day, including geo-locative and augmented reality experiences. To crack ‘REVEAL’ players must find all 24 codes and unscramble them to make a sentence. Code breaker leaflets will be available online and at the pop up shop at 10 Norfolk Street in King’s Lynn. The project runs until 4 January. Further details at revealKL.com

Thompson’s Gallery Christmas Exhibition Thompson’s Gallery in Aldeburgh will be holding its annual Christmas Exhibition from 1 December to 6 January. The exhibition will showcase art from its most established artists and introduce new ones. Works will include South African artist Hennie Niemann Jnr whose cubist observations of the male and female form are striking and romantic. To represent the Scottish aspect

Behind the Lines: Alfred Munnings, War Artist, 1918 Celebrated as one of England’s finest equestrian painters, Sir Alfred Munnings forged much of his early reputation as a brilliant war artist. Now, for the first time in 100 years, 41 wartime paintings by Munnings are returning to the UK on tour from the Canadian War Museum, Ottawa for the exhibition ‘Behind the Lines: Alfred Munnings, War Artist, 1918’ at his former home, Castle House in Dedham from 23 March – 3 November 2019. In this once-in-a-lifetime display the paintings will be shown side by side with the surviving sketchbooks that inspired them. This is the first time these sketchbooks have ever been on public display together with the finished pictures, and will provide a unique view of life ‘behind the lines’—in every sense of that phrase. More than 150 other works by Munnings, from his boyhood sketches, through his early commercial work, to his iconic horse paintings, will also be on display throughout Castle House at the same time, offering a complete survey of his life and development as an artist. www.munningsmuseum.org.uk

of the exhibition, which has long been the backbone of Thompson’s Gallery, is a landscape by John MacLauchlan Milne to satisfy the 20th century enthusiast and then there are also paintings Joe Hargan, Robert Kelsey, Ronald Smith and Judith Bridgland. There will also be collections of paintings and sculptures by contemporary and Modern British artists. www.thompsonsgallery.co.uk

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ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS With all the hustle and bustle of the festive season, the last thing you want to worry about is how you are going to get into town, or spend all your hard-earned money on a parking space. The new multi-storey Crown car park is the answer. It’s at the heart of the town and oﬀers 540 spaces in a well-lit, fully staﬀed and safe environment. All of Crown’s spaces are wider than normal - ideal when you have Santa’s little helpers with you! 8am - 11.30pm Mondays to Saturdays, 8am - 8pm on Sundays Only £1 an hour and £2 after 2pm during the week Easy, safe and excellent value!

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Spotlight On Ipswich Ipswich’s Cornhill welcomes the town’s Christmas craft fair

he refurbished Cornhill in Ipswich is now open – a development that has turned the town centre into ‘something to be proud of’. Part of a huge transformation under way in the town, the redevelopment aims to support Ipswich in becoming a thriving retail and commercial destination. Ipswich has had the Cornhill as its central focal point for centuries. And now the area will be the place for visitors and residents to eat, shop and enjoy themselves, with plans not only encouraging new businesses to move in, but also creating space for special events to take place throughout the year. During the Cornhill redevelopment, Ipswich Borough Council, on behalf of the Ipswich Vision partners, conducted a survey to ask residents what events they would want to see on the Cornhill once completed. Over half (54%) of respondents specified crafts or specialist events; comparable to those that take place annually across Suffolk and even Europe. The feedback has been taken on board, and between 10-23 December this year, the Cornhill will become the proud home of a Christmas craft fair. Run by Eden Crafts, shoppers will be met by a superb selection of seasonal trinkets, all located on the stunning new Cornhill.

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K&T Eastlife .qxp_1 21/11/2018 17:45 Page 1

24 November 2018 - 28 April 2019 CHRISTCHURCH MANSION, IPSWICH

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Traders will be offering a wide variety of local arts, crafts, gifts and jewellery. David Ellesmere, leader of the Council said: “We’re delighted to have Eden Crafts on board, and after all the hard work on the Cornhill redevelopment, I’m very excited to see the new space being used for important town events once more. It will be wonderful to see everyone getting into the Christmas spirit.” The survey also highlighted that two thirds (67%) of respondents will feel prouder of Ipswich once it has a modern and exciting town square, while more than half (55%) said they are feeling more optimistic about the town centre’s future as a result of the Cornhill redevelopment. Right next to the Cornhill, and leading down into Queen Street, is the regular four-day market, which is a favourite with residents and visitors alike. And it’s not just the Cornhill – Ipswich has many national stores, both large and small, within a five minute walk from the Cornhill, two thriving shopping centres and fantastic independent shops, such as those in The Saints on the way to the Waterfront. What’s more, Ipswich has recently been named as one of the fastest growing urban centres in England by The UK Powerhouse, and has huge potential for growth. The report revealed that Ipswich had the second-highest GVA growth rate (a measure of the value of goods and services produced) recorded in the UK in the first three months of this year (2.5%). These are all promising signs of a bright future for Suffolk’s county town. Further information on the redevelopment can be found online at www.allaboutipswich.com/highlights/cornhill

For more things to do and events taking place in Suffolk during December visit www.suffolkday.co.uk.

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CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 2018

Thompson’s Gallery would like to wish all our clients a very ‘Happy Christmas’ and a ‘Prosperous New Year’ & invite you to visit our Aldeburgh Christmas exhibition where we will showing a vast & varied selection of leading 20th/21st century artists.

1 DEC - 6 JAN 2019

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Find your perfect coastal Hideaway Suffolk Hideaways, based in the bustling coastal town of Aldeburgh, offer a fantastic and ever-growing selection of holiday homes throughout this glorious county. The portfolio boasts a broad range of properties with converted barns, contemporary homes, thatched gems, cosy hideaways and boltholes with coastal views. So, whether you’re looking for something romantic, dog-friendly or somewhere for that big family get-together, let the local team at Suffolk Hideaways take the stress out of finding your dream retreat.

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aby, it might be cold outside, but Suffolk will really have you wanting to stay…

The crowds of families are gone and there’s not a bucket or spade in sight, but that doesn’t mean the fun stops on the Suffolk Coast. For those that are in the know, now is the time to enjoy the best of Southwold & Aldeburgh. Mingle with the locals at cosy pubs by the crackling fire, escape the hustle and bustle of the high street with the town’s independent boutiques and sleep tight at some of the region’s most stylish accommodation.

A Self-Catered Christmas There are few places more magical than the Suffolk Coast at Christmas. Spend your days exploring quaint villages and market towns adorned with twinkling lights, pick up last-minute handmade gifts at Christmas Markets, and blow away the cobwebs with a walk on a fresh, winter beach. But after a long day of exploring, there’s nothing like returning to a cosy Suffolk Hideaways cottage, lighting the fire and settling in. It may sound like a Christmas Eve fairy tale, but more and more people are deciding to spend Christmas somewhere different. It’s easy to see why. Most of all, it’s an excuse to escape the pressure which can come with hosting the most wonderful time of the year! Instead, people are choosing to share the load with a winter’s break away. Suffolk Hideaways have many large holiday homes available throughout the season for families wanting to

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get together. This can be a great option as there’s no need for airbeds on the floor and no more knocking elbows around the dinner table – a property with room for everyone (including, in many cases, the family dog!) is the answer to getting everyone together for a stress-free celebration. Of course, there’s also a great deal to be said for a cosy, intimate Christmas, away from the hustle and bustle. Suffolk’s beautiful coastline and rolling countryside is perfect for a festive escape, and Suffolk Hideaways have plenty of romantic boltholes to choose from. After all, what could be more perfect than spending Christmas Day in front of the fire, sharing a bottle of wine and presents with your special someone? Once the presents have been opened and the plates have been cleared, there’s still plenty to do in Suffolk to keep that festive feeling going. A popular choice is the traditional Boxing Day swim in Aldeburgh. Proudly sponsored by Suffolk Hideaways, 2018 will be the 30th time participants take to the 8°C water. Make sure to head along to cheer on the 150 swimmers as they brave the cold or, if you’re feeling bold, join in yourself! All money raised goes towards local medical charities to help them continue their great work. Whatever kind of Christmas getaway you’re looking for, Suffolk Hideaways have the perfect holiday home for you. Just visit www.suffolkhideaways.co.uk or call their local team on 01728 666300.

Let a Hotel be the Host Both Aldeburgh and Southwold have exceptional accommodation choices. If you fancy wrapping up warm and enjoying long walks on the beach (perfect for burning off those Christmas calories), The Brudenell and Wentworth Hotel in Aldeburgh and The Swan Hotel and

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award-winning Crown in Southwold, are all within easy reach of the shore and local amenities. The White Lion, which sits opposite Aldeburgh’s pebbly beach and fisherman sheds, is offering a three-night full board package from £552 per person. You’ll arrive on Christmas Eve and start the celebrations with a festive afternoon tea and mulled wine around the fire. On Christmas Day enjoy a Buck’s Fizz breakfast, and take a long walk to work up an appetite before tucking into a delicious traditional lunch. There’s a buffet supper and quiz in the evening. On Boxing Day watch the annual charity swim and enjoy a day of food and entertainment. To book call the White Lion on 01728 452720 or for more details visit www.whitelion.co.uk.

Festive Fun With your bags unpacked and bellies full, you’ll need to find some fun things to do. Before the Christmas celebrations begin, take the time to wander the streets of Southwold, where you’ll find cute cafes, independent boutiques and the famous Adnams brewery if you fancy a festive tipple. Denny of Southwold is a must visit for classic style staples or stylish Christmas gifts. The store has a traditional feel and stocks designers such as Cath Kidston, Valentino, Lulu Guinness and Vivienne Westwood to name a few. On 23 December, head to the Snape Maltings and get into the seasonal spirit with a screening of ‘The Snowman’. The Christmas classic will be accompanied by a live orchestra with Poulenc’s ‘Babar the Little Elephant’ narrated by Zeb Soanes. With a superb choice of accommodation, festive fun and wonderful winter walks, have yourself a merry little Christmas in Suffolk!

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What’s on: Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 30 Nov - 13 Jan Sleeping Beauty As a newborn baby she was cursed by the evil fairy Carabosse. On the day of her 16th birthday, Aurora will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die! Will Nanny Fanny, King Edmund and Grub the kitchen boy be able to protect the un-suspecting princess? Will Fairy Fortune find a way to defeat her sister, the wicked Carabosse? And what part does the dashing Prince Florin have to play? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

12-Dec Film: The Third Murder A complex 4 star courtroom drama. Misumi is on trial for a murder to which he has confessed. It seems to be a straight forward case, yet his defense lawyer senses that there is more to this than meets the eye. As for Misumi, he seems bent on persuading the jury that he is guilty. The fact that the death sentence still operates in Japan adds to the tension. It’s a captivating plot, full of twists and turns that keep the audience guessing. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org

5-Dec Jason Manford: Muddle Class Delivered with Jason’s amiable charm and captivating wit, this is a show not to be missed. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100

13-24 Dec The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are evacuated from London during the Blitz to stay with the Professor. Whilst exploring, Lucy stumbles across the wardrobe; a gateway to a magical world called Narnia. Very quickly, they find themselves caught up in a deadly struggle between good and evil as they encounter the evil White Witch and the good King of the Beasts, Aslan. Will good triumph over evil? The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk

6-Dec Spiderwomen Dr Eleanor Morgan, artist, expert and author of book about the human uses of spider silk, from gun sights to royal underwear, stars in Spiderwomen! The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 9-Dec Boyface and The Christmas Jumper This is a deliciously silly and wonderfully festive piece of musical theatre for children and their families. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 10-Dec The Lock In ‘Christmas Carol’ Half gig, half dance show and half panto! Join the BBC award-winning team of musicians and dancers for 150% of the very best festive live music, song and dance, featuring The Demon Barbers! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 10-Dec Film: The Nutcracker & The Four Realms Disney’s new live-action spin on The Nutcracker tale. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

13 Dec - 1 Jan Peter Pan Join Wendy, Michael and John Darling as they fly over London with Peter Pan to join the Lost Boys and Tinker Bell in Never Land where Captain Hook wants to outwit and out-manoeuvre the hero. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH . 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 13-Dec An Evening of Eric and Ern at Christmas This is a brilliant homage crammed full of renditions of those famous comedy sketches, that hits all the right notes! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 14 Dec - 2 Jan Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs A pantomime full of excitement, including a Good Fairy, a Magic

Mirror and the craziest Seven Dwarfs you’ve ever seen! Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 19-Dec Christmas at Haughley Park An evening of festive food, drink and entertainment in the beautiful setting of historic Haughley Park. There will be music, drama and improv comedy to accompany the delicious food and festive cheer. Haughley Park, Stowmarket IP14 3JY 20-Dec Santa and the Magicians Assistant Featuring some well known characters, including Santa, lots of familiar songs. and even a little magic; this production is a must to all parents of children aged 1-6. No baddies to be scared of, only lots of laughs and fun for all. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 21-23 Dec The Liar, The Bitch and The Wardrobe Malfunction The Adult Panto team returns with another production which isn’t a panto. If you like swear words, playground humour, bullying and stuff like that; it’s worth a punt. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 21-31 Dec Dick Whittington A traditional family panto for all the family to enjoy packed with fun, magic, song and dance and lots of terrible jokes! With TV funny man Bobby Dazzler, magician Des King as well as the young stars from the Lisa Mason School of Dance. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk MUSIC 4-Dec Carols from Cambridge Enjoy seasonal favourites to get you in the festive mood, sung by the euphonious voices of the choristers of the Selwyn College Chapel Choir. Book early to avoid disappointment! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284

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ARTS & CULTURE 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 8 Sep - 23 Dec Lucinda Rogers Snape Drawings 7-Dec Have Yourself a Merry Artist and illustrator Lucinda Rogers Little…Christmas with Frank, Dean will exhibit drawings of familiar and & Judy hidden scenes of Snape Maltings and Back by popular demand, a festive Aldeburgh, centred around the original tribute to Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack drawings she made for the Snape and their infamous residence in Maltings seasonal brochures over the Vegas. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton last year. The Quay Gallery, Next to the Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. River Alde, Snape Maltings, P17 1SP. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk www.snapemaltings.co.uk 8-Dec Nashville Nights 17 Nov - 31 Jan Christmas Exhibition The evening will be full of songs A mixed exhibition to include all from all your favorite Country stars gallery artists. Southwold Gallery, including Waylon Jennings, Johnny 64a High Street, Southwold, Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris KristofIP18 6DN. 01502 723888 ferson, Hank Williams and more. www.southwoldgallery.co.uk The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH . 01502 589726. 20-Dec Abstraction www.theseagull.co.uk Looking at the many artists who participated in the abandonment 8-Dec Big 10 of representational art and helped Paul Firman presents a night of develop a new artistic language. Christmas ‘Madness’ and ska music. Many pioneers were women, such Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, as Vanessa Bell, Hilma af Klimt and Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 Barbara Hepworth. The Cut, www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 11-Dec Lets Twist Again Love 50s and 60s music? A full SPECIAL EVENTS company of critically acclaimed 1-2 & 5-9 Dec Christmas at artistes and musicians deliver a Helmingham show that combines great music, For the first time ever Helmingham fun and laughter with the greatest will open its gates during the winter hits of Elvis, Dusty, Lulu, The to welcome guests to its very own Beatles, Sandie Shaw and many winter wonderland with a Christmas more. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Market and very special Illuminated Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD Garden Trail which will show the 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk gardens as never before! Helming ham Hall, Helmingham, Stowmarket, 18-Dec The Sweet: IP14 6EF. 01473 890799 Blockbuster Christmas Party With the hits ‘Blockbuster’, ‘Ballroom 5, 13 & 22 Dec Lavenham by Blitz’, ‘Fox On The Run’ and ‘Love Is Lantern Light Like Oxygen’, The Sweet became one See the medieval village of Lavenham of the biggest bands of the 70s, and in a whole new light on the Lantern were the quintessential glam rockers Walk. The beautiful timber-framed who brought androgynous looks and buildings will come alive as you listen crunching guitar pop to the masses. to the history of this hidden gem. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Market Place, Lavenham, Sudbury, Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 CO10 9QZ. 08442 491895 www.theapex.co.uk 7-16 Dec Christmas Spectacular at 19-Dec Jazz at the Movies: Snape Maltings A Swinging Christmas With a cast of 100, a live orchestra This joyous show gets jazzy with a and a huge dose of Christmas stocking-full of 20th century holiday magic, this year, there’s exciting new classics and curiosities. The Apex, costumes, dazzling stage effects and 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, a story that will leave you ready for IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 the festive season. Snape Maltings, www.theapex.co.uk

Snape, Saxmundham, IP17 1SR. 01728 687110. www.snapemaltings. co.uk/spectacular 7 & 14 Dec Southwold Artsian Craft Market A selection of local crafts including textiles, pebble art, stained glass, jewellery, natural products, paper cutting, homemade cards, sun catchers and more. High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DS . www.facebook. com/southwoldartisancraftmarket/ 7-9 Dec Lavenham Christmas Fair Over 50 stalls in the Market Place; gifts, food & drink, clothing, jewellery & handicrafts. Live entertainment. Father Christmas Grotto, big wheel etc. Market Place, Lavenham, Sudbury, CO10 9QZ 9, 15 & 29 Dec Weekend Winter Wildlife Wander Discover what makes Minsmere such a special place to visit in winter as the guides show you some of the wildlife and historical highlights. RSPB Minsmere, Westleton, Saxmundham, IP17 3BY 13-14 Dec Christmas at Otley Hall Experience a Tudor-style Christmas with a guided tour of this stunning 15th/16th century building rich in English history. Candle lit rooms, decorated trees and roaring log fires enhance your festive experience, and the tour is followed by mulled wine and festive nibbles in the Great Hall. A perfect way to begin your Christmas celebrations! Otley Hall, Hall Lane, Otley, nr Ipswich, IP6 9PA 01473 890264. www.otleyhall.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 9-Dec Suffolk Antiques & Collectors Fair Open 9.30am - 4pm. Admission £1. Lavenham Village Hall, Church Street, Lavenham, CO10 9QT 29-20 Dec Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair Featuring 50 tables selling antiques, jewellery, ceramics, collectables, militaria, vintage clothing and accessories, vinyl records, ephemera, kitchenalia etc. Free parking. Dog friendly. Entry £1. Open 9.30am 4pm. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX

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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.

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

Relax on the North Norfolk Coast

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We are a family-run business and offer a wide and varied selection of woodburning, Multi-Fuel and Gas Stoves. In our showroom in Holt, we have several on display and below are just a small selection of those on offer...

 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

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SECRET

Norfolk

Life in a Fine County

5 of the Best Boxing Day Walks

Written by Nicole Ranaweera

s there anything nicer than a brisk walk on Boxing Day with family or friends to walk off a bit of that Christmas indulgence? Whether you’re local or just visiting, here are 5 of the best walks in Norfolk…

1. A Seaside Stroll A trip to the coast is a winner with all the family, old or young and where better to go than Brancaster beach, an area of outstanding beauty. Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, follow the Norfolk Coast path towards Brancaster Staithe harbour. A little way along the coastal path, a path heads inland to the White Horse pub (www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk) and is perfect for that post-walk warm up!

2. Historic Haunts The beautiful Blickling Hall, its gardens and 950 acres of woods and parkland are ideal for a Boxing Day visit. Stroll around the lake or explore the woods – it’s a beautiful area and with the historic Buckinghamshire Arms (www.bucksarms.co.uk) right next door, you have a welcome rest stop that sports a wonderful open fire.

3. Get Arty Located in a 1,000 acre deer park is The Gunton Arms (www.theguntonarms.co.uk), a remarkable pub with a passion for art! There’s a public footpath that runs parallel to the deer park so you can stretch your legs before heading indoors to warm up to see if you can catch a glimpse of a cheeky Damien Hurst! It’s a popular pub so be sure to book well in advance.

4. Easy Going

Blickling Hall

If you want to stay close to town then the pretty broad at Whitlingham Country Park in Trowse may be the perfect circular walk for you. It’s a flat, easy going walk surrounded by a plethora of wildlife and stunning scenery. Once you’re ready, head into the village to either the River Green Café (www.rivergreencafe.co.uk) which is a very popular vegetarian/vegan restaurant or The Crown Point Tavern (www.crownpointtavern.co.uk) for a traditional country pub.

5.See the Seals Probably the most popular walk on Boxing Day in Norfolk is a trip to Horsey to see the seals and their newborn pups. Check www.friendsofhorseyseals.co.uk for up to date information about the seals and visiting information. Nearby you’ll find The Nelson Head (thenelsonhead.com) for a warm welcome and bite to eat. To find out what’s on in Norfolk this December visit www.eastlife.co.uk or join our Facebook group: What’s On in Norfolk with Eastlife: www.facebook.com/groups/ whatsonnorfolk

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Advertorial

CHRISTMAS VISITS CHRISTMAS at Bressingham VISITS at Bressingham

Father Christmas is coming to Bressingham on selected days in December

Father Christmas is coming to Bressingham Sat 3 Dec 2016 to Sat 24 Dec 2016 on selected days in December. Rudolph is away on his holidays so Santa decided

Sat 1sthisDecember to Car for the journey to to use old faithful Steam Monday Norfolk. 24th December Rudolph away hiselves, holidays decided toon use his He and is his wifeon and will so beSanta at Bressingham old faithful Steam Car for the journey to Norfolk. the 3/4, 10/11, 17,18 and 21,22,23,24 December 2016. Entry times vary depending on the day.

He and his wife and elves, will be at Bressingham on the 1/2, 8/9, 15/16, and 21, 22, 23, 24 December 2018. Thistimes year vary Santa is including: Entry depending on the day. A ride onthe the24th Steam the 2pm Nursery Lineclose for All• days but haveTrain entryonfrom to 5pm noeveryone. earlier than 6pm. 9, 15, 16 have an additional 12pm to 2pm entry slot, 24th has an 11am to 2pm entry slot and • For those up to the age of 12 a visit to Father we will close earlier. Why not stay all afternoon and visit Christmas and a present from him. Walmington on Sea at Christmas. • Rides on the Gallopers are included too.

This year Santa is including:

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andSteam a Childrens entertainer will be in the • Christmas A ride on the Train on the Village Hall. for everyone Fen Railway •There will be food available at Wyevale if you arrive

• For those up to the age of 12 a visit to Father before Santa is ready and at The Steam Museum too Christmas and a present from him. Rides on the during your visit. Gallopers are included too. is Army advisable and can by telephone • Booking The Dads Exhibition willbe bemade decorated for on 01379 686900, online orentertainer in person at the Christmas and a Children’s will beticket in the office. can also will choose to pay on theatday VillageYou Hall. There be food available Wyevale if you arrive Santa is ready and at The Steam (if tickets arebefore still available), Ticket numbers are Museum limited sotoo it’s during best toyour bookvisit. online.

Adult (advance) tickets are £11.55 Advanced tickets are offered at discounted rates: Children (advance) 3-12 £14.85 Adult tickets are £11.55 under 3’s (advance) requiring a present are £7.15

Children aged 3-12 are £14.85 under 3’s requiring and a present £7.15 Booking is advisable can beare made by telephone on

01379 686900 or in person at the ticket office. Tickets on the day to willpay be on £1 per person more are still You can also choose the day (if tickets than in advance. All prices Aid to book available), Ticket numbers areinclude limited£1 soGift it’s best online. donation. All offer types (including Tesco Deals) are excluded from use at this event.

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Winter in North

NORFOLK I

t’s the most wonderful time of year, and there has never been a truer saying for when it comes to visiting the North Norfolk coast. The countryside feels magical as it glints with frost, the sea swirls under stunning sunsets and wildlife comes to life. With the crowds of holidaymakers long gone, you can often find yourself alone on big beaches, feeling as though you have the entire county to yourself.

Cosy Christmas Villages Head inland and you’ll find Norfolk’s finest town’s putting on a show for Christmas. Holt is known for its dazzling fairy lights hung along the gables, gutters and roofs, accompanied by impressive festive windows. The Georgian village of Burnham Market has a magical atmosphere in the lead up to Christmas with lights twinkling in the trees, shopping opportunities and pubs with cosy corners and roaring fires to escape the cold. If you’re lucky, you’ll also catch a glimpse of the pink foot geese that fly over the village at this time of year.

A walk on the wild side Norfolk’s wildlife really does shows off during the winter months, and emerges from the depths of forest and the sea to unveil natural spectaculars. Wrap up warm, pull on your wellies and take a walk through the countryside where you’ll find herds of deer, pheasants and more. Hundreds of deer roam the estate and woodlands of Holkham Hall, and it’s worth booking a wild deer safari.

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Discover hundreds of festive events in Norfolk at www.eastlife.co.uk

Brave the cold and take to the coastline for an enjoyable winter walk with the dog or family. The shoreline, sea and sky are memorising at this time of year. However, it’s the colony of seals and their pups with their cuteness that draw in visitors throughout the winter months. Thousands of them gather along the coast, and can most likely be spotted on walks at Horsey, Blakeney Point and Morston Quay. If you’d like a closer look, book a boat trip with Beans Boat Trips or Temple Seal Trips. It’s easy to have your very own winter wildlife safari in Norfolk, but afterwards, thaw out at a traditional cosy pub complete with a warming fire, top grub and local booze. The Gunton Arms, King’s Head in Letheringsett and Red Lion in Stiffkey are popular choices. Despite being winter these pubs do get busy so book ahead if you’re planning to eat.

A winter wonderland in Wells Unlike other traditional seaside towns which shut down during the winter, Wells-next-the-Sea continues to boom with its excellent selection of shops, pubs and restaurants. This year the famous Wells Tide took place on 24 November, which officially kicked off the town’s Christmas celebrations. Don’t worry if you missed it, there’s still plenty of festive fun to be had. Starting with food. Yes, if there’s one thing that Wells does well it’s delicious food. Start your day with a walk along the sandy beach with its colourful huts and pine forest back drop. If the weather takes a turn for the worst, there’s a footpath that runs alongside the beach through the forest. Once you’ve worked up an appetite get cosy at one of the town’s pubs. The Golden Fleece on the Quayside and

The Globe Inn at The Buttlands are well worth a visit - even on a cold rainy day it’s best to book a table in advance. For something a little different hop aboard the Albatros, a former Dutch cargo ship moored on The Quay; their pancakes are highly recommended! There’s of course plenty of opportunities for fish & chips but if it’s a taste of the sea you fancy, book a table at Seasons. As the name would suggest, the menu changes with local produce that is currently in season, and in December the sea comes into its own. Hake, clams, oysters, lobster and mussels are at their best in December. Just imagine warming up with a bowl of steaming garlic mussels and dunking fresh crusty bread into the creamy broth, yum! The restaurant is currently adding a first floor restaurant and lounge bar, so watch this space! There’s festive fun for little ones at Wells & Walsingham Light Railway with its Father Christmas Specials from 8-22 December. Travel through the countryside on a steam train followed by a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Whether you’re visiting for a day, weekend or longer, North Norfolk is the perfect place to explore this winter.

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What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 6 Nov - 23 Dec Thursford Christmas Spectacular An extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. It’s a fast moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year round favourites. Thursford Collection, Thursford, Fakenham, NR21 0AS 01328 878 477. www.thursford.com 24 Nov - 30 Dec The Cromer Pier Christmas Show The Cromer Pier Christmas Show returns for its 14th year and is now considered to be one of the best family Christmas shows in Norfolk, strengthening the county’s fantastic festive entertainment offering. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 www.cromerpier.co.uk/whats-on 26 Nov - 1 Dec The Full Monty This production about six out-ofwork, impoverished steelworkers from Sheffield with nothing to lose, took the world by storm and has become one of Britain’s most successful shows. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 1 Dec - 1 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Stunning costumes, creative choreography, scenery straight from an enchanting fairy tale and a fast paced story line which will ensure this year’s production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ is a truly magical experience. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 5-30 Dec Sleeping Beauty Ohyesitiz Productions Ltd are pleased to return to present for you the traditional family pantomime ‘Sleeping Beauty’. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832. gorlestonpavilion. ticketsolve.com

5-6 Dec An Afternoon of Christmas Words and Music Come along and join in the singing of well known Christmas songs including ‘White Christmas’, ‘The Christmas Alphabet’ and ‘Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer’ alongside wonderful Christmas poems and carols. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 6-Dec Beauty and the Beast A tale of love and adventure, this classic story examines morals, truth, friendship, bravery, fairness and forgiveness packed full of live music, comedy and energy. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 7-31 Dec Sleeping Beauty The Princess is searching for happiness, Evil Carabosse is searching for revenge, Chester the Jester is searching for someone to laugh at his terrible jokes and Dame Nellie Night Nurse is searching for a man…in the two front rows! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 8 Dec -1 Jan Beauty and the Beast Packed full of modern songs, dances, hilarious characters, mayhem and stunning effects, join us as we take you on a special journey of enchantment in one of the best loved fairy tales of all time. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 8-Dec Intellectual Hooligans The show will consist of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” style games based entirely on audience suggestions. Anything goes (and we mean anything!). Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 12 Dec - 13 Jan Aladdin Written and directed once again by Richard Gauntlett, the show is set in

the Far East and promises dazzling costumes, a stunning set, mischievous fun, and entertainment for all the family. Book now. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street , Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 12-Dec Much Ado About Crimbo! Boogaloo Stu & Lorraine Bowen This Christmas, prepare watch the sparks fly as Boogaloo Stu’s crimplene-clad comedy character Derek Daniels and the polyester queen Lorraine Bowen join forces for this hilarious festive show. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 14-23 Dec Dick Comes Again Adult Panto The return of Dick in his new (Strictly Adult Only!) adventure. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832. gorlestonpavilion.ticketsolve.com 15-31 Dec James and the Giant Peach Roald Dahl’s extraordinary adventure of a little boy and a GIANT peach! Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 15-29 Dec - Selected Dates Wind in the Willows 2 More action from the Riverbank and the Wild Wood with the further adventures of Mole, Ratty, Badger and, of course, the irrepressible Mr. Toad in this completely original production. A seasonal treat for all ages! Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 16-Dec Toast ‘Toast’ is a poetry organisation committed to the continued professional development of poets in the U.K. Toast runs workshops for poets, live literature events and discussion panels. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk

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Seahorse StudioAdforUNN1#AW:Layout 1 09/05/2017 11:37 Page 1

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1 Dec - 9 Jan Christmas Exhibition: 19-Dec Sh!t Theatre: Muppets Part 2 Christmas Carol The second of two great collections Come and sing-a-long to the best for Christmas from selected artists. Christmas film ever! Norwich Arts Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 www.birchamgallery.co.uk norwichartscentre.co.uk 1 Dec - 27 Jan Mechanical Circus 20-24 Dec Princess and the Pea Roll up, roll up for the greatest This quirky and inventive adaptation mechanical show on Earth! This of Hans Christian Andersen’s bedtime entertaining exhibition marks the end tale is played out among sheets and of our Circus 250 celebrations. Feablankets with puppets and projecturing beautiful mechanical sculpture, tions. Norwich Puppet Theatre, physics games and puzzles there will St James, Whitefriars, Norwich, never be a dull moment! The Forum, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921 Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF www.puppettheatre.co.uk 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk MUSIC 7-Dec The Sweetbeats 4-6 Dec Art Norfolk Dance all night to the joyful sounds ‘Art Norfolk’ comes together this of The Sweetbeats as they blend selfChristmas for an exhibition in The penned songs with twisted versions Forum with a display of paintings, of the classic Ska, Reggae, Bluebeat, prints, sculpture and mixed media. Soul and dub tunes that inspired The Forum, Millennium Plain, them. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 13-15 Dec UNIK Design norwichartscentre.co.uk UNIK Design return to The Forum with their stunning craft collections. 9-Dec Jazz @The Hub A great selection of local, hand-made A programme of vocal jazz with The crafts for sale straight from the deJohn Whitehead Trio and special signers. The Forum, Millennium Plain, guest Jan Jinkerson. Sheringham Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sher ingham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 21-23 Dec Skye Art Exhibition www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com ‘Skye’ is the brainchild of two very driven people, a painter with a desire 17-Dec An Albion Christmas to share their art and a videographer This show takes you on a guided tour with the skills to get them out there. through the Christmas customs of Skye’s first solo exhibition will take Britain. This is the first time this show you on an adventure across land and has appeared at the Little Theatre. sea in oil paintings and prints.The Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com SPECIAL EVENTS 1-21 Dec Deck the Halls ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Explore Blickling Hall in all its festive 13 Oct - 24 Feb Elisabeth Frink: splendour. This year, to reflect upon Humans and Other Animals its five year conservation project ‘Elisabeth Frink: Humans and Other of the 18th century, Long Gallery Animals’ features over 150 works library, there will be a Georgian focus by the artist, and will be the largest throughout the house. Blickling Hall, showing of Frink’s work in 25 years. Blickling, Norwich, NR11 6NF . The exhibition will explore Frink’s www.nationaltrust.org.uk enduring preoccupation with human and animal forms and the symbiotic 5 & 12 Dec Festive Wreath Making relationship between them. Sainsbury With special tuition, spend the day Centre for Visual Arts UEA, Norwich creating your own festive wreath using NR4 7TJ. www.scva.ac.uk greenery from Holkham’s parkland.

Holkham Estate, Wells-next- the-Sea, NR23 1AB. www.holkham.co.uk/event/ christmas-craft-workshop-festivewreath-making 8-Dec Modern Country Craft Christmas Fair A craft and gift fair with an eclectic mix of stalls selling quality bespoke products, sourced and made locally. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 moderncountrycrafts.co.uk 8-Dec Santa’s Grotto for Dogs Bring your dressed up pooches to meet Santa Woof Woof in his kennel shaped grotto and be part of the seasonal silliness. Santa’s little helpers from the RSPCA will be handing out doggie treats and helping you take family pictures. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950 9-Dec Ramble and Roast at NWT Cley Marshes A guided stroll around the reserve taking in the sights and sounds of winter wildlife on the North Norfolk Coast. Then head back to the centre to warm back up with a home cooked Sunday roast and delicious pudding. £17 NWT members, £20 non members. Coast Road, Cley next the Sea, NR25 7SA. 01263 740008 12-Dec Giant Hannukkah Lighting Join the Norwich Hebrew Congregation for the lighting of a 9ft Hannukkia with doughnuts and latkes to celebrate the Festival of Hannukkah. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 norwichsynagogue.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 9-Dec Antiques & Collectors Fair While many vendors specialise in particular wares, others offer an eclectic mix, making the prospect of an interesting find at a reasonable price a strong one. Open 8.30am-3.30pm. Hemsby Village Hall, Waters Lane, Hemsby, Great Yarmouth, NR29 4LE 07919 022352 9-Dec Norwich Does Vintage Expect a fabulous array of authentic vintage stalls. Free entry. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950

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St Albans

here’s something magical about being in the city during December. The smell of chestnuts fills the air, choirs sing and twinkling lights make Christmas shopping among the crowds almost enjoyable. If there’s one city that knows how to celebrate in style its St Albans, here’s everything you need to know…

Christmas Market St Albans has been home to a market for 1,000 years, so it comes as no surprise that the city has welcomed its traditional market chalets for another year. Back, bigger and better than before is the European-inspired Christmas Market, taking place from 30 November to 22 December. For the first time the market is being held within the Meraki Christmas Festival at Verulamium Park. The merge of the events will create a winter wonderland of entertainment for both adults and children. You’ll be able to shop for handmade goods from the wooden chalets, enjoy fairground rides and experience a virtual reality Santa’s Grotto. This year’s highlights include the ‘igloo smoke and ice bar’ where you can chill out and get merry with a festive cocktail and the ‘snug movie house’ which will be showing a great line up of films throughout December – make sure you stop by for a festive family favourite! A Christmas trip to the city wouldn’t be complete without a twirl around the ice. Visitors can do their best Torvill & Dean impression at the synthetic skating rink. All levels are welcome, but wrap up warm!

Fun & Games St Albans has a long history of gaming and sport that dates back thousands of years, and this December the heritage is being honoured with the ‘Game Plan’

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exhibition at St Albans Museum + Gallery from 1 December to 3 March. Originally displayed at the V&A: Museum of Childhood, this exhibition celebrates the joy, excitement and occasional frustration of playing board games, with some of the most iconic, enthralling and visually striking games on show. There’s a chance to get involved from 15 December to 6 January as giant games will be available to play in the Assembly Room at St Albans Museum + Gallery – best of all it’s free to play.

The Advent Trail There’s festive fun to be had at every turn in St Albans as every day at 1pm from 1-24 December a business will be unveiling their advent window. Check the Enjoy St Albans social feeds daily for posts of every reveal, and every like or share has the chance to win a prize from that business. After the final reveal at St Albans Abbey, you can vote for your favourite display at enjoystalbans.com and be in a chance of winning a £100 St Albans Gift Card – who needs chocolate, eh? The fun begins at The Albans Arena!

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There’s plenty of opportunities for a Christmas singa-long throughout December, but one not to miss is ‘Carols on the Hour’ at the Cathedral on 15 December. Between 11am-4.30pm there will be carol services to help the whole family get into the Christmas spirit. Each carol service lasts just 30 minutes - enough time to sing some uplifting carols with the Cathedral Choirs and local visiting choirs, and to get a real taste of Christmas in the beautiful, atmospheric surroundings of the Cathedral. It’s free to attend.

Venture out of the city to Harpenden and enjoy a programme of Christmas classics. Harpenden Public Halls will be showing a special screening of the animated film ‘The Snowman’ on 9 December featuring a live performance of Howard Blake’s musical score performed for you by the Hitchin Band.

This is just the tip of the iceberg for Christmas in St Albans. There’s a packed programme of festive fun including crafts, wreath workshops, cookery classes, wine tasting, live music, entertainers, pantomime, visits from Santa and much more. Don’t miss the live reindeer at the Christopher Place Shopping Centre on 22 December from 11am-3pm – a great free event to get little ones excited about the big day!

From the 8 – 30 December families can enjoy an enchanting faiytale of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ full of dazzling costumes, special effects and laughs aplenty! This year’s pantomime stars Hollyoaks and Holby City actor Jeremy Edwards. For tickets, visit www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk

See the full list of events at www.enjoystalbans.com/ Images/Christmas_brochure_2018_web_tcm45-65204.pdf

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It’s a very Bedford Christmas Saturday 1st Dec 10am

Monday 10th December 2pm

Bedford Prep School Choir sings Carols at The Kiosk at the Park in Russell Park. All welcome!

Pilgrims Choir sing carols at The Pavilion.

Saturday 8th December 2pm - 4pm

Award-winning Children’s Illustrator David Litchfield and his world famous Bear Band at the Kiosk at The Park.

Lantern Decorating with Creative Days Pavilion at the Park.

Saturday December 22nd 10am

Christmas Eve December 24th 4pm Sunday 9th December 3:30pm

Pavilion at the Park & Hope Bedfordshire present: Open Air community Carols, retiring collection for SoupFest, helping our homeless.

Carols at the Kiosk, now in its 6th year. All welcome. Santa hats and Christmas jumpers optional.

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www.eastlife.co.uk Like us on Facebook /eastlifemag Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines Follow us on Instagram @eastlifemag

A Very

Bedford

Christmas

Written by Erica Roffe www.explorebedford.co.uk | @bedfordexplore

rom the Christmas light switch-on on Thursday 22 November, right up until Christmas Eve, visit Bedford’s town centre and buy from independent shops, find well-known brands, eat, drink and be merry!

From Wednesday 5 - Sunday 9 December, the annual Christmas Tree Festival takes place in St Paul’s Church, raising money for the Bedford Hospitals Charity. Visitors can see over 65 trees individually decorated by local businesses and community groups on the theme of Christmas around the world. Wednesday 5 - Saturday 8 December 10am - 5pm / Sunday 9 December noon - 4pm. Entry: £2.50. Under 16 free. St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk/treefest

Corn Exchange and Harpur Suite on Sunday 2 December from 10am - 4pm. Buy from a huge range of stalls featuring Bedford’s best local artists, craftspeople and producers. Top up on festive cheer with some homemade mulled wine accompanied by carol singers and musicians. A fabulously festive day out for all the family. Admission is free! Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, MK40 1SQ Over at the Higgins on 2 December, kick off Christmas in the Cultural Quarter. The Museum will be open from 11am with lots of family-friendly activities, including drop-in decoration workshops and a brilliant interactive Christmas story session in Cecil Higgins’ house with Punchdrunk Theatre’s Katy Balfour. Plus, we’ve had a tip off that it might even snow…

Santa’s Grotto On Saturday 1 December, Bedford will be celebrating Small Business Saturday. GCH Fishmongers on Newnham Street are offering 10% discount on any Christmas orders placed on the day, while Ready Steady Roll in Sharnbrook will be offering a free slice of cake with every game purchased. If you head to Boutique Planet in the Old Arcade you can help them choose a name for their giant pink flamingo! More events and offers will be taking place on the day. Check out explorebedford.co.uk for up-to-date info.

Made in Bedford Christmas Artisan Fair The twice yearly Made in Bedford Artisan Fair is at the

Santa Claus will once again be taking up residence in his Grotto in Bedford’s Harpur Centre. You’ll find him in Unit 13 (next to SuperCuts) from Saturday 24 November. Price includes meeting Santa and a gift on arrival (£4 per child / £7.50 for two children / £10 for three children and £13.50 for four children). Sat 24 November/1 December/8 December/15 December 10am – 5pm Sun 25 November/2 December/9 December/16 December 10am - 3pm Wednesday 19 – Saturday 22 December 10am – 5pm Sunday 23 – Monday 24 December 10am – 3pm

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What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 30 Nov - 27 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Join in on a magical adventure to meet a Wicked Queen with a jealous streak, a handsome prince who’s searching for love and the fairest of all damsels in distress. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 1 Dec - 1 Jan The Astonishing Adventures of Pinocchio Chock full of sensational, splintering songs; bursting with beautifully turned dances and packed to the rafters with timber-splitting fun. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 1-24 Dec Santa Claus and The Magical Christmas Journey 2018 From the producers of last year’s record breaking production, the next adventure in the collection is filled with songs, nursery rhymes and magic promises to be the Christmas treat you won’t want to miss. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 01923 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 5 Dec - 5 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk A lavish spectacle with live musicians on stage, stunning sets and costumes, song, dance and slapstick, performed straight from the heart by a talented company of new faces and Palace favourites. Watford Palace, Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ . 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 7-31 Dec Peter Pan Meet the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily and Tinker Bell, and get ready for a family show full of fun, fairy dust and pirates galore. Set sail for Neverland, take on Captain Hook and prepare for out-ofthis-world flying effects, galleons of laughter, and the hungriest of crocodiles! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com

8 Dec - 13 Jan Robin Hood Don’t miss the ultimate pantomime adventure ‘Robin Hood’, starring one of the nation’s favourite soap actors Shane Richie. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 8 Dec - 5 Jan Beauty and the Beast With spectacular sets and costumes, stunning choreography and a feast of magical effects it’s a festive family treat for all ages. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 9-11 Dec Santa’s New Sleigh Christmas is fast approaching and Santa’s Sleigh is nowhere to be found. Will Sprocket and Dibs be able to create a new sleigh in time or will Christmas be cancelled? Can you help them save the day? Only time will tell but with audience participation, sing-alongs and a present from Santa for every child it promises to be the perfect festive treat. Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 12-Dec The Get Stuffed Christmas Comedy Night ‘The Get Stuffed Christmas Comedy Night’ returns with a storming line up of its favourite comedians. Don’t miss out on what will be a brilliant evening. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 15-Dec Baby Broadway Christmas Enjoy well-known numbers from ‘The Polar Express’, ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Elf’, ‘White Christmas’, ‘The Snowman’, ‘Frozen’ and many more plus there will be bubbles, bells, flying babies and puppetry in an interactive family concert performed by West End singers. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

16-Dec Santa in Love A magical fun filled Christmas show with sing-along songs and lots of interaction followed by a meet and greet with Santa that includes free presents for the children and photo opportunities! Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 17-30 Dec Tabby McTat Tabby McTat is a cat with the loudest of meee-ews and a best friend with a guitar. Together they sing their favourite songs delighting the crowds, until one day Fred disappears. Separated and alone, Tabby finds shelter and a new life with all the home comforts that any cat could dream of. However, memories of his life with Fred haunt him, and he sets off to search the streets for his long-lost friend. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 17-Dec The Snowman An immersive magical journey and experience the heartwarming tale of ‘The Snowman’, screened with a live orchestra. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 18-Dec The Scummy Mummies Christmas Show Expect scummy carols, yuletide sketches, festive stand-up and very scummy Santa stories! Book your tickets now, before it sells out. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 19-29 Dec The Yule Lads Blending Icelands seasonal legend of the Yule Lads with original songs and music written specially for this show, this is a heart warming tale of overcoming adversity, friendship and the spirit of adventure. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org

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20-Dec The Nutcracker Tchaikovsky’s much-loved music is matched to a magical adventure on Christmas Eve for Clara and her Nutcracker doll. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 22-23 Dec The Sleeping Beauty Ballet Theatre UK’s spectacular production, set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music with stunning classical choreography, by the Artistic Director, Christopher Moore, reawakens the magic of the world’s favourite fairy tale. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 01923 571 102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 22-Dec That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular Rock ‘n’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 22-Dec Film: Home Alone It’s not Christmas until you’ve seen Home Alone at least once! Here’s your chance to see it on the big screen. Exciting Christmas gift with every child ticket purchased. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 28 Dec - 6 Jan Aladdin Cheer on the heros, as Aladdin goes in search of true love and help us to ensure good triumphs over evil. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY . www.courttheatre.co.uk MUSIC 6-7 Dec West End at Christmas Stars from the West End present a magical evening of entertainment featuring hits from the musicals and the best of Christmas song. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 7-Dec Matthew Floyd Jones: Richard Carpenter is Close To You Richard used to be on

top of the world, to the left of (and slightly behind) Karen. Now he’s back with a vengeance, only to find out it’s not exactly yesterday once more anymore. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 12-Dec Christmas Carol Concert The Palace Community Choir invite you to join them as they sing a medley of carols and festive favourites. Everyone is welcome to come inside, warm up and prepare for the holiday season with a fun evening of yuletide song. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 14-Dec Jazz At The Movies: A Swinging Christmas ‘Jazz At The Movies: A Swinging Christmas’ gathers jazzy festive favourites as made famous by Ella, Eartha, Frank, Doris, Dean, Bing and a whole gang of cool celluloid cats and hip Hollywood chicks. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 14-15 Dec Cleo’s Christmas Show Kick off the festive season in style and take your seat for Cleo’s annual Christmas celebration. She’s invited a host of friends and family to create a show packed with great music and seasonal fun, as well as some surprises along the way. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU . 01908 280800 www.stables.org ARTS & CULTURE 13 Nov - 8 Dec Four East Anglian Artists Mixed media, paintings, drawings, prints, cards and gifts from a group who met when studying together. In time for Christmas, this collaboration is a celebration of friendship and creativity. Courtyards Gallery, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596. www.courtyardarts.org.uk 26 Nov - 24 Dec Members’ Christmas Show A gift of platinum shows you are rich, but a gift of artwork from the Eagle Gallery shows that you love them! The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road,

Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 15 Dec - 6 Jan Twelve Days of Christmas Gallery Trail Discover Verulamium Museum’s hidden treasures with its very own twelve days of Christmas trail. St Albans Museum + Gallery, Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL3 5DJ. www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 2, 9 & 16 Dec Sunday Lunch With Santa Give your family an early Christmas treat with a fantastic lunch at Knebworth Barns, complete with a visit from Santa and a gift for every child. It’s never too early to be thinking about Christmas, tickets are expected to sell out early! Pre-booking is essential. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG3 6PY. 01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com 15-Dec Carols on the Hour Take a break from the last-minute Christmas shopping and enjoy this special St Albans Cathedral event. Each service lasts just 30 minutes, enough time to sing some uplifting carols with the Cathedral Choirs. Everyone is welcome to come and sing and experience the true meaning of Christmas at these hourly Carol Services from 11am to 4pm. No tickets required and admission is free. St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, St Albans . 01727 860780 www.stalbanscathedral.org 26-Dec St Albans Mummers For over 40 years the St Albans Mummers have performed their unique adaptation of George & The Dragon on Boxing Day in various locations in the City Centre. Various location in St Albans AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 16-Dec Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Over 45 stalls of just about every type of antique you can think of including silver, jewellery of all types, books, small furniture, pictures, advertising, china and tons of vintage. Open: 9.30am - 4pm. Admission: £2. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH

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The

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We’re ending the year with the announcement of our new Cambridge columnist, Victoria Magnall... There really is no better place to enjoy the festive season than historical Cambridge. Spending time in our beautiful city at this time of year evokes a sense of stepping back in time to savour the traditions and customs that make Cambridge so uniquely magical. The annual carol service ‘Carols from King’s’ held on Christmas Eve at Cambridge University, is one of the most famous carol services in the world and is available for anyone to attend should they have the patience to stand in the queue! People begin queuing at 7.30am and the college porters count the number of people joining the line. Once there are as many lined up as there are seats available in the chapel, the porters tell new arrivals that they’re unlikely to be seated. If you are planning to be part of this Christmas treat, do dress up warmly because the doors to the chapel don’t open until 1.30pm. The service starts at 3pm and ends at about 4.30pm. When in Cambridge why not order a delicious hot chocolate from one of the cosy cafes only a stone’s throw from King’s College. Fitzbillies is particularly lovely (although you really are spoilt for choice of venues with extensive menus including vegan and gluten free options) and is famed for its Instagram friendly exterior; a great photo opp and awesome cakes!

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Cambridgeshire

Gift shopping in Cambridge is an extremely Dickensian experience as one can meander the cobbled paths of Trinity Street, Trumpington and the colourful market. Take time to window shop and pop in to welcoming boutiques to purchase speciality food treats and presents for loved ones. With the city’s superb Park and Ride scheme you really are able to shop until you drop! A city made for the discerning palate, there is an abundance of restaurants to choose from. The Pint Shop (Peas Hill) has everything from a range of 23 keg and cask beers, a gin of the day and a menu which includes some of the best traditional fayre and insanely good chips and gravy! The warm interior and friendly team make this venue a real ‘must visit’. If you have time, visit the Varsity Hotel for a stunning view of Cambridge from their stylish rooftop bar. Tempting you with an eggnog or mulled wine, there is surely no better place to relax and unwind after a festive afternoon in such a picturesque city!

Say hello to Victoria... Victoria Magnall is Eastlife’s newest contributor who will be taking over our Cambridge Scene pages to bring you the latest news and events from the city.

The Varsity Hotel

She is also the newest member to join the prestigious British Guild of Beer Writers. The aim of the Guild, established in 1988, is to spread the word about beer, brewing and pubs as well as ‘improve standards of beer writing and extend the public knowledge of beer’. Members make up the elite of the beer world, all raising the profile of the Great British local and the beers you find there. Former Greene King event manager, Victoria Magnall has a wealth of knowledge about what makes a great local pub and you can read her findings of local establishments in Eastlife or via her Instagram @victorias_social_scene Twitter: @victoriamagnall Blog: www.victoriamagnall.wordpress.com

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Santa’s Christmas Party Thursday 20th December Tickets from £10.50, u2s FREE

See in 2019 in style New Year’s Eve Party Monday 31st December Tickets £25

It’s PANTO time! at the Burgess Hall 9th - 13th January Tickets from £8

Thursday 20th December 10.30am or 3pm shows Tickets from £10.50, Under 2s FREE

1 December Merry & Bright Christmas Party 8 December Jingle Bell Ball 10 December Tea Dance 19 December Christmas Bingo 20 December Santa’s Christmas Party 22 December Christmas Boogie Nite 29 - 30 December St Ives Antiques Fair 31 December New Year Party 9 - 13 January Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 25 January Boxing Dinner 30 January Burgess Bingo 2 February Boogie Nite 8 & 9 February 1940s Weekend 17 February Indoor Car Boot 22 February Anthem: Ultimate Queen 25 February Tea Dance

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What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 29 Nov - 6 Jan Aladdin Aladdin sets off on an adventure that will change his life, and fortunes, forever...Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 3-Dec The Nutcracker ‘The Nutcracker’ has long been one of the most delightful ways to discover the enchantment of ballet – and makes for a delicious seasonal treat for all the family. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 4-Dec Choreocracy Record-breaking dance artist Tim Casson and BAFTA award-winning digital artist Seb Lee-Delisle, present their first collaboration ‘Choreocracy’ - the fun interactive dance show that puts the audience in control of the performance. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 4-8 Dec The Girl in the Glass Ranging from 1918 to the days of Oliver Cromwell, this is an intriguing and exciting ghost story for Christmas from award-winning local playwright Sean Lang. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge CB5 8AS www.corpusplayroom.com 5-31 Dec Snow White An original take on the classic Brothers Grimm fairytale, filled with live music, magic and festive fun. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 6-Dec It’s a Wonderful Life George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all - and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence - who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years.

Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 6 Dec - 6 Jan Peter Pan Fly to Neverland and join Peter and his friends in the magical tale of fairies, pirates and friendship. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 7-Dec Hammer & Tongue Hammer & Tongue Cambridge is part of the national poetry and spoken word organisation, bringing slam poetry democracy to regional audiences in Oxford, London, Brighton, Cambridge and Bristol, and featuring different world-class poets every month. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 8-30 Dec Robin Hood All the characters you know and love from this ever popular tale are involved, with Will Scarlet, Friar Tuck and Little John alongside our brave hero as he steals from the rich and fights for the good - he’s the man we all know as Robin Hood! The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 10-Dec A Christmas Carol A heart-warming evening in the presence of the author himself! Actor John O’Connor delightfully recreates Dickens’s famous performance of his best-loved ghost story. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 11-Dec A Christmas Carol Simon Callow and director Tom Cairns have created a one-man theatrical extravaganza of festive storytelling that is both heart-warming and deeply moving. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 12-Dec Love Actually in Concert Following a sold out 2017 tour, ‘Love Actually’ will once again be screened

live across the UK with a full orchestra performing its enchanting score – just in time for Christmas! Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 12-Dec The Scummy Mummies Christmas Show Join Ellie and Helen as they celebrate the scummier side of parenting, from drinking wine at teatime to hiding from the PTA. Bring your friends and make it a Mums’ (or Dads’!) night out! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 13-15 Dec The Nutcracker In a limited run of eight performances directed by Ballet Central Artistic Director Christopher Marney, Ballet Central will present their dazzling 45-minute version of the time-honoured Nutcracker. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com 14-Dec The King and I Set in 1860s Bangkok, the musical tells the story of the unconventional and tempestuous relationship that develops between the King of Siam and Anna, a British schoolteacher whom the modernist King, in an imperialistic world, brings to Siam to teach his many wives and children. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 15-16 Dec Cinderella Packed solid with comedy, excitement and adventure, the children will love to to cheer their hero, Prince Charming, and boo the horrible stepsisters, Fifi and Lala as they try to keep Cinderella from going to the ball. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 15-Dec Sing-a-long-a Muppet Christmas Carol Come sing-a-long to the best Christmas film ever! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk

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MUSIC 5-Dec The Overtones Christmas 2018 Teaming up, once again, with producer Julian Hinton and engineer Simon Bloor, the album – a collection of thoughtfully chosen covers and originals - is a tribute to Timmy, a celebration of everything that the group has achieved together. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 8-Dec The Magic of Motown Prepare yourself for 40 back-toback classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 8-Dec The West End At Christmas Direct from their sold out tour last year, ‘The West End At Christmas’ returns to the Mumford Theatre with their brand new show for 2018! Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 10-Dec The Albion Christmas Band ‘An Albion Christmas’ is widely regarded as the premier seasonal show, which has been touring for nearly 20 years, and attracts sell-out audiences across the UK. Indeed many people say that their Christmas doesn’t start until they have seen ‘The Albion Christmas Show’. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 15-Dec Ezio Ezio is a folk music band from Cambridge, England formed in 1990. Ezio have eight studio albums, one compilation album, four live albums and three videos/DVDs, built up a large fanbase without breaking into the mainstream of the British music scene. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk

16-Dec Prime Brass Family Christmas Concert Once again, Prime Brass brings its special brand of festive music-making to West Road Concert Hall in its all-new Family Concert, with performers: Prime Brass, Junior Prime Brass and TongueTwister. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 21-Dec The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club. With a primetime slot on BBC 6 Music for over 10 years now and performing at a range of festivals and events over the UK, there really is nothing stopping him spreading his love for Funk & Soul! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 22-Dec Family Christmas Concert Some of the country’s most talented young musicians from Cambridgeshire Music will play an array of festive favourites in this heart-warming concert. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 10 Nov - 24 Dec Christmas Cracker 2018 Picture, sculpture, craftwork, hand made original print and jewellery. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 4 Dec - 3 Mar 2019 Collecting and Giving: Highlights from the Sir Ivor and Lady Batchelor bequest See highlights from the Sir Ivor and Lady Batchelor bequest, through the Art Fund, on display for the first time. Works include drawings by Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Ruskin, William Orpen, Walter Sickert and Gwen John. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 10-Dec Half day fused glass workshop with June Massey A festive half day workshop in the gallery with June Massey, Member of the Creative Glass Guild. Create a Christmas dish, decorations or a

gift for a friend. Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 616991. www.babylonarts.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 17 Nov - 6 Jan The North Pole Cambridge Festival Festive fun for everyone with ice skating, an alpine bar and fun fair. Parker’s Piece, Cambridge. www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk 2-Dec Mill Road Winter Fair Mill Road will come alive with festive entertainment and food stalls. Cambridge. www.millroadwinterfair.org 15-16 Dec Christmas at Ely Museum Come and celebrate Christmas at Ely Museum. Father Christmas will be in the Victorian Parlour from 10.30am-12.30pm and 1-3pm on Saturday and from 1pm-3.30pm on Sunday. Every child will receive a gift and have the chance to join in with fun, Christmas themed crafts. Tickets £3.50 per child. Ely Museum, The Old Gaol, Market Street, Ely, CB7 4LS. www.elymuseum.org.uk 16-Dec Lights of Love The ‘Lights of Love’ carol service is an opportunity for family and friends to come together and remember their loved ones. Peterborough Cathedral, Cathedral Office, Minster Precincts, Peterborough PE1 1XS www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 19-Dec Cathedral by Candlelight Tour Come and enjoy this after-hours tour with one of our trained guides and let your imagination soar as you hear stories from the Cathedral’s long history. Peterborough Cathedral, Cathedral Office, Minster Precincts, Peterborough PE1 1XS. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 9-Dec Ely Antiques and Collectables Fair With approx 20 dealers with a good mixture inc. stamps, glass, watches, kitchenalia and variety of decorative items from a range of eras. Free parking. Entry £1. Opens 10am. Centre E, 24 Barton Road, Ely CB7 4DE

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tea filled with sing along festive songs and the telling of traditions from other kingdoms. It’s a great chance to get children into the Christmas spirit. Tickets are priced £10 for children aged 2-12 and adults priced £15.

Shopping

Christmas Market

If you’ve not yet started your Christmas shopping or perhaps there’s a few last items to tick off the list, then hop in the car and make your way to Colchester. The town centre is home to the famous Fenwicks. Offering everything from clothing and jewellery to food and beauty, here you can have a West London shopping experience without the crowds and chaos. However it’s the independent retailers dotted throughout the historic streets that make it the perfect place to pick up presents. A favourite is Belle Love which sells beautiful Italian designed goods including handbags, women’s clothing and jewellery. Located in a historic building on Eld Lane, which is built on top of the old Roman wall, the boutique has stylish hand-picked collections which showcase the finest Italian leather and craftsmanship. On Wednesdays in the lead up to Christmas there will be late night shopping, with many of the stores staying open until 9pm, with free parking from 3pm.

An Enchanted Christmas The Town Hall is bringing the magic of Christmas to life on 16 December, as the Frost Queen and her sister, the Snowflake Princess, make an appearance for an afternoon

The annual Christmas market will be returning to Culver Square from 8-9 December. Feel the festive vibes with delicious seasonal treats, crafts and more.

Santa’s Grotto There’s no shortage of places to see the man in red in Colchester. Families can choose from a range of enchanting grottos including Colchester Castle and The Barn Garden Centre. If you have a little one who adores animals book your ticket to Colchester Zoo for a Santa visit with a twist. On selected dates from 1 – 24 December, children will be able to meet the reindeers, get crafty at the elves workshop and enjoy a staff pantomime and Christmas tale.

Pantomime It wouldn’t be Christmas without the slap stick comedy of a panto. The Mercury Theatre will be putting on a performance of the time old classic ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ until 20 January. As one of the most popular pantomimes in the region, tickets get booked up fast to see the magical mayhem full of laughter, music and dance. It promises to be a glittering Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy! Book tickets at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/event/jack-and-the-beanstalk

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The Peldon Rose

70’s Night on New Years Eve £10.00 per head Limited Tables available for dinner that evening. Open Christmas day for Drinks 12.00 -2.00pm . We cater for parties, wakes, small weddings. B & B is available. A 14th-century rural inn with 3 modern guest-rooms feature country-style decor and en suite bathrooms. Amenities include a restaurant serving modern British cuisine, an oak-beamed bar and a function room, as well as a historic well pond in the garden.

Colchester Road, Peldon CO5 7QJ - Tel 01206 735 373 thepeldonroseinn@outlook.com

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The Trinity Nightclub on the first floor has a capacity of 230 guests and is available to hire FOR ONLY £275 for a four hour slot to include DJ. Alternatively you can have The River Lounge FREE OF CHARGE for smaller parties. It can hold 60 guests and is ideal for Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, anniversaries etc. Email your enquiry to thedorrington@gmail.com The Dorrington Halstead - Essex CO9 1JD Tel: 07790955805 www.thedorrington.co.uk enquiries to: thedorrington@gmail.com

What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 24 Nov - 20 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ promises all the laughter, sparkle and excitement you’ve come to expect from the seasonal show that just keeps breaking box office records! Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 30 Nov - 6 Jan Cinderella Will Cinderella be rescued by her prince and live happily ever after? Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 30 Nov - 6 Jan Aladdin Featuring an exciting blend of live music, quality professional performers, stunning sets, lavish costumes and jaw dropping effects, The Harlow Playhouse is the home of family pantomime in Essex this Christmas. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 4-18 Dec A Christmas Carol Dramatized with flair and wit in a version first performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this adaptation of the ageless story captures Dickens’ ironic point of view while it creates a panoramic view of Victorian London. The Old Court Theatre, Springfield Road, Chelmsford . 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 5-8 Dec Season’s Greetings Every year, millions of us repeat the same well-trodden process of assembling families for a 2 or 3 day festive celebration that frequently turns out to be disastrous. And that’s exactly what Alan Ayckbourn’s 1980 play is all about – a family Christmas peppered with tensions fuelled by drink and the stress created when people with little else in common but their biological origins face confinement together. Perfect timing at the start of the festive season! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliffon-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135

www.southendtheatres.org.uk 6-Dec Love Actually in Concert A full, live orchestra will perform Craig Armstrong’s evocative score at these shows, with the film being projected onto a huge screen. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7, 14, 19 & 21 Dec Boys From Jersey Festive Lunch Outstanding vocals, tight harmonies, and slick routines combine with a huge dose of showmanship to leave you “Beggin” for more. A three course lunch is included. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8 Dec - 1 Jan Peter Pan This swashbuckling adventure will captivate audiences of all ages with stunning special effects, spectacular scenery, some truly amazing flying and a good helping of fairy dust! Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE 01255 686633. www.tendringdc. gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 11-15 Dec Oh Yes It Is! ‘Oh Yes It Is!’ is back with more chaotic, off-the-cuff Christmas cheer! They’ll be asking the audience for more than just booing and cheering; they want suggestions for locations, characters and a whole host of other ideas that’ll get the improvisers into mischief! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 13-15 Dec Santa in Love Maybe you’d like to know where the fairy on top of the Christmas tree comes from, or why you never see a Christmas elf, or what exactly happened to Frosty the Snowman? You’ll never guess, so if you want to find out then join Santa and his friends in this fun filled family musical complete with games, giggles and

all your favourite Christmas songs. Cramphorn Studio, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 13-Dec Our West End Christmas An evening of song and dance showcasing songs from all your favourite musicals, with a sprinkle of Christmas magic. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road , Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 14-24 Dec The Great Christmas Sleigh Ride The Great Christmas Sleigh Ride is a brand new, fun-filled, sing-a-long, interactive festive show for 2-6 year olds, their families, pre-schools and nurseries. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 14 Dec - 5 Jan Aladdin Hop aboard your magic carpet and fly to old Peking to enjoy this must-see show packed full of magical genies, laugh-out-load comedy, spectacular flying effects and a lamp-full of audience participation. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 16-Dec The Christmassy Christmas Show ‘The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness!’ is an over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes and comedy, and over-flowing with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 16-17 Dec Christmas Gothic Come in from the cold and enter into the Christmas spirit as a dark and spectral woman tells haunting tales of the festive season, lighting a candle to the frailties of human nature and illuminating the cold and chilling

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depths of the bleak, wintry dark... Cramphorn Studio, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 19-22 Dec The Christmas Show A festive spectacular. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-onSea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 21-31 Dec Holly and Ivan’s Christmas Adventure A magical tale of two brave little toys, Holly and Ivan, who fall off the back of Santa’s Sleigh on Christmas Eve. Not wanting their new owners to wake up to no presents, they set off on an epic journey to find them. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 21-Dec The Adult Panto: Hansel and Gretel Go Down in the Woods The Market Theatre Company have taken a traditional fairy story and corrupted it beyond belief - packing it with corny jokes, raunchy plots and blatant sexual innuendo! Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 29-31 Dec Cinderella The classic rags to riches tale of Cinderella will be transformed into a breath-taking youth extravaganza with dazzling sets, gorgeous costumes and music that the children will know and love. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk MUSIC 5-Dec The Magic of the Beatles If you’re looking for an authentic, lively dose of ‘Beatlemania’ then you need to look no further! Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 8-Dec The Four Seasons By Candlelight The verve and virtuosity of the 18th century is brought to life in this enchanting concert staged in an elegant candle-lit setting with

SPECIAL EVENTS an evocative programme crowned 7-9 Dec Christmas Tree Festival at by Vivaldi’s sublime masterpiece. All Saints’ Church Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, SouthA display of Christmas Trees end-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 representing organisations within www.southendtheatres.org.uk the church and town, vote for your favourite by making a donation to 19-Dec The Big Band at Christmas the Children’s Society. The Sunday Swing ‘n’ sing-along into Christmas viewing culminates in the Christingle with the unique Five Star Swing Big service at 3pm. Maldon, CM9 4QE Band show. Palace Theatre, www.allsaintsmaldon.com 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 8-Dec Christmas Craft and Food www.southendtheatres.org.uk Fair A collection of craft and food stalls. 21-Dec Christmas Classics with Clavering Village Hall, Hill Green, Blake Saffron Walden, CB11 4QS Back by popular demand, Brit-Awardwww.facebook.com/groups/langleywinning vocalists BLAKE celebrate communitycentre/ Christmas in style, with a show featuring over twenty festive anthems, 8-Dec Burnham Festive Street top class musicians, hand-picked Fayre choirs and guaranteed snow-storms There will be plenty of Christmas every night! Palace Theatre, 430 Market stalls, food & drink stalls, London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, games, mulled wine and entertainSS0 9LA. 01702 351135 ment. Kids can enjoy the fairground www.southendtheatres.org.uk rides, bouncy castles and the real Santa will be landing in Burnham 21-22 Dec Xmas Jazz High Street laden with smarties. In their regular Christmas slot, Town Centre, Burnham-on-Crouch Larry & Zak bring another special www.burnham-carnival.co.uk programme packed with great antics and fun Jazz guaranteed to land 12-Dec Christmas Open Evening you in a festive mood. Cramphorn A seasonal treat as Colchester Studio, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Castle opens its doors for free! CM1 1JG 01245 606505 Come and soak up the Christmas www.chelmsford.gov.uk atmosphere with carols, mince pies, ARTS & CULTURE entertainment and possibly even meet Santa before his big night! 28 Sep - 31 Dec Not Yet At Ease Colchester Castle Museum, Castle ‘Not Yet At Ease’ explores the Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ history of psychological disorders resulting from conflict and the AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES stigmas attached to them. Using 4-Dec Saffron Walden Emporium poetry and performance, this - Collectables, Crafts at Saffron immersive artwork is inspired by Walden Town Hall letters written by soldiers during A variety of stalls selling small-scale wartime. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, antiques, collectables, bric-a-brac High Street, Colchester, CO1 1JH. and crafts, cards and home-made 01206 713700. firstsite.uk preserves. Market Place, CB10 1HR 17 Nov - 17 Jan Paloma Proudfoot 15-16 Dec Colchester’s Record | Metropolitan Wares Fair Paloma Proudfoot presents the A treat for both enthusiasts and culmination of her 16-month casual collectors alike. Come browse tenure as Sculpture Town Artist in through stall holders’ collections Residence (STAIR). Proudfoot works of vinyl and CDs from a vast range in sculpture, ceramics, site specific of genres. Grab yourself a bargain – installation, performance and or perhaps something a little rarer. clothes-making. Gibberd Gallery, Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Civic Centre, The Water Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH Harlow, CM20 1WG. 01279 446404. 01206 713700. firstsite.uk www.gibberdgallery.co.uk

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The Social Scene Keep up with every Like, Tweet, Snap and Website competition /eastlifemag

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Christmas Competition! Enter our biggest competition of the year for your chance to win some amazing prizes! In the lead up to Christmas we’ll be giving away a prize a day from Monday 3 December – our gift to you!

Credit - @IrishPixel Gamlingay South

There are some fabulous prizes to be won. Winners can get festive with board games at Ready Steady Roll in Sharnbrook and ice skating at the Lee Valley Centre. What could be better than a meal for two at the likes of Turtle Bay in Norwich and Slug & Lettuce in Bedford. Or perhaps you fancy afternoon tea at the luxurious Parker’s Tavern, Cambridge? There’s also plenty of goodies for Christmas including a hamper of Newmarket’s Powters sausages, the Luxe Box from Hotel Chocolat, a voucher from Prezzybox.com and home fragrance from Aroma Holidays courtesy of Eagle Travel. Then there’s the gift that keeps on giving, an English Heritage membership!

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This is just some of the fabulous prizes up for grabs throughout December. For your chance to win, ‘Like’ our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/eastlifemag and look out for daily updates. All information and details on how to enter will be available at www.eastlife.co.uk Good luck!

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