Haveringlife Magazine Summer 2015

MAGAZINE SUMMER 2015

A-Z of Havering Dining HaveringLife brings you a whole alphabet of fabulous restaurants to try in our local area

Park Life

As summer well and truly arrives, we investigate Havering’s open spaces and give you the lowdown on where to visit when the sun shines

NEVER MISS AN EVENT Follow us on Twitter to get the Havering Weekender every week

@HaveringLife

welcome

Hello and welcome to the summer edition of HaveringLife magazine. We are very proud to bring you a mix of articles and style pages, from fashion and interiors, to local events and food.

This issue we celebrate summer by going out to investigate some of the great open spaces we have in the local area, and bring you the lowdown on which parks are worth a visit in the sunshine.

HaveringLife also takes you on a culinary journey as we dine throughout Havering – from A to Z. From Italian, Indian, Chinese and Turkish cuisine, you’ll find it all listed in our foodie feature.

We get you ready for summer with plenty of ideas on our food pages, review a meal out at the Hungry Cow in Collier Row, and bring you new ways to cheer up your garden in our interiors section.

We hope you enjoy this latest issue and would love to hear your feedback, get in touch by emailing hello@haveringlife.co.uk.

With many thanks to: Paul Wade, Fern Denyer and Philip Denyer.

Blog: www.haveringlife.tumblr.com Website: www.haveringlife.co.uk Email: hello@haveringlife.co.uk Twitter: @HaveringLife Facebook: Search ‘HaveringLife’

Written, designed and published by Lisa Wade t/a HaveringLife. Whilst HaveringLife promises to take the utmost care with submitted material, responsibility cannot be accepted for loss of or damage therein. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent from HaveringLife. Whilst every care of information accuracy is taken, and everything is published in good faith, we cannot accept responsibility for any errors or consequences arising as a result of incorrect information. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. This publication and HaveringLife is in no way associated nor affiliated with Havering Council.

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FEATURES 06 | Park Life

HaveringLife takes a tour around some of the boroughs green spaces to bring you some of the best places to visit this summer whether you’re looking to go for a run or enjoy a picnic 36 | A-Z of Havering Dining

With so many wonderful places to visit in Havering for a bite to eat, we take you on a culinary journey through the alphabet covering everything from Italian and American to Chinese FASHION & BEAUTY 23 | Style Selection

Summer fashion for everyone from local retailers, including our pick of the top three swimshorts for him and beautiful yet spacious beach bags for her 30 | Beauty As the temperature rises, so does the wish for gorgeous bronzed skin. Stay safe and step away from the sunbed as we show you how to get that golden glow from the bottle 4

contents

FOOD & DRINK 34 | Chef’s Corner Enjoy the season with our pick of picnic purchases plus a tasty recipe for carrot and courgette savoury muffins 44 | Restaurant Review

HaveringLife heads to local restaurant Hungry Cow in search of the perfect steak and chips, and is not disappointed REGULARS 12 | Events A huge selection of events for summer and beyond, from open days and craft sessions to music and sporting events 20 | Snapshot

We showcase 16 year old Fern Denyer’s brilliant snapshot of Harrow Lodge Park in the Autumn 47 | Pets Corner HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs Coco and Max share their news, favourite shopping buys and top tweet 49 | Interiors

This issue we take on the garden and bring you a selection of pretty furniture and accessories to help you make the most of it TRAVEL 52 | Vacation To… …Madeira. HaveringLife visits the Portuguese island of Madeira for some five star treatment at a great hotel, plus top notch food and beautiful scenery 60 | Mini Break

We head to Dublin for a weekend of shopping, sightseeing and of course plenty of Guinness drinking 5

Life

Park

HaveringLife explores some of the wonderful open spaces we have in the borough

W

e are very lucky to be living in one of the greenest boroughs in London.

Havering has many large parks to enjoy over the summer plus a lot of beautiful smaller spaces. Whether you

This image and right: Harrow Lodge Park

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are looking to go for a run with stunning scenery, kick a ball about with friends or packing a family picnic, there is a park in the local area that will be just perfect.

Havering has over twenty main parks, but

here is just a handful you might like to enjoy over the next few months.

HARROW LODGE PARK Situated in Hornchurch and home to Hornchurch Sports Centre, this is the perfect park for those looking to stretch their legs. Being one of the largest in Havering, it has plenty of space for running around, plus tracks and paths for those wishing to take a slower pace. Other ways to keep fit are by making use of the

FEATURE

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Hylands Park

tennis courts, or if you prefer simply to watch, cricket and hockey are often being played close to the sports centre.

The large lake attracts swans, ducks and geese which the little ones will enjoy watching, along with two children’s play areas, great for burning off all that excess energy.

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Raphael Park

LOCAL PARKRUNS Fancy getting fit and running a timed 5km run? Each Saturday at 9am Parkruns take place at Raphael Park and Harrow Lodge Park. Register, print off and bring along a barcode at www.parkrun.org.uk.

RAPHAEL PARK Raphael Park (given a makeover in recent years) has plenty of essential amenities so you can really make a day of it. As well as toilets, a children’s play area, tennis courts and large lake, there is also a cafe and Raphael’s – a Turkish restaurant situated within the park

FEATURE

Hylands Park

serving up plenty of delicious food in great surroundings. The park is also home to several outdoor open air theatre plays each year during the summer, and occasional music events at the bandstand.

Raphael Park

(and where you can leave the car). Although it is a lot smaller it’s well worth a visit and is a peaceful place for walking the dog.

HYLANDS PARK Hylands is an urban park which has LODGE FARM PARK achieved Green Flag status since 2008 – the This is just across the road from Raphael Park benchmark national

standard for parks and green spaces in the UK. The circular path gives good views over the whole park as you walk/ run/cycle. It has lots to offer, from tennis and basketball courts, to a play area for the kids, plus exercise equipment for those who want to stay fit without paying for gym membership.

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Harrow Lodge Park

HORNCHURCH COUNTRY PARK A brand new visitors centre is being built here, which will offer plenty of facilities. The park also has a lot of history, being a former RAF Hornchurch base, and some artefacts still remain. Being

Raphael Park

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Hornchurch Country Park

a designated Local Nature Reserve with extensive marshes, this park is great for those that are interested in seeing wildlife and birdwatching.

Hornchurch Country Park

Park Funday which happens every year.

Being close to the high street it’s ideal for a quick break from shopping, there is even a kiosk where you can relax with an ice cream.

UPMINSTER PARK BEDFORDS PARK This big open space is home to the Upminster One of the borough’s largest parks, Bedfords has a visitors centre and mature woodlands. You may even catch sight of the Red Poll cattle herd who call it home.

Whatever your plans this summer, there is a park waiting for you to visit and make the most of the sunshine.

FEATURE

FOCUS ON… small spaces In addition to Havering’s main parks, our borough also has many smaller places for some quiet time, including beautiful landscaped gardens and fishing lakes holds an annual summer concert of classical and contemporary music.

The gardens have been awarded silver gilt in the Best Small Park category for London in Bloom.

Langtons Gardens, Hornchurch This stunning historical garden provides the backdrop for perfect wedding photographs for the on-site registry office. A beautiful place to wander through, Langtons Gardens also

Clockhouse Gardens, Upminster A lovely place for taking the kids to feed the ducks, Clockhouse Gardens is a peaceful

garden in Upminster which is also home to a local bowls club.

Parklands Open Space, Upminster This is a quiet wooded area, a perfect place for taking a picnic on a hot summers day. Also great for fishing.

Queen’s Theatre Green, Hornchurch Situated just beside the theatre, this little spot is perfect for housing the odd outdoor production and show and is also home to the annual Passion Play at Easter.

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EVENTS DIARY HaveringLife brings you a selection of the summer’s finest local events – from bat watching and shopping at an Italian market, to the Havering Show and creative workshops

Upminster Windmill Open DayS

Saturdays and Sundays 1, 2, 15 & 16 August, 5, 6, 19 & 20 September, 2pm-5pm If you have not visited this iconic structure in Upminster, visiting an open day this summer is a must. You will explore the mill and learn how flour and animal feed was produced on-site between 1803 and 1934. Donations welcome.

The Mill Field, Upminster 12

EVENTS

Bat and Moth Evening

Friday 14 August, 8.30pm-10.30pm Try this for something a little different – a walk at Parklands to search for bats. To see the moths in a moth trap meet at Park Drive at 9.30pm to go to Cranham Marsh. Bring a torch. £2.

Parklands, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster

Havering Show

Sunday 30 and Monday 31 August, 11am-6pm Celebrate the bank holiday weekend by visiting the borough’s biggest summer event. The family fun and entertainment event includes musical acts, daring stunts, a circus, fun fair, classic cars, cute critters and plenty of stalls and exhibitors.

Catch headline acts Boney M on Sunday with Brown Girl in the Ring and Rivers of Babylon, and Bad Manners on Monday with My Girl Lollipop and Can Can. Entry is free, with parking at £2. Fingers crossed for sunshine!

Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch

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Volunteering DayS

Thursdays, 23 & 30 July, 6, 13, 20 & 27 August, 3, 10, 17 & 24 September, 1, 8, 15 & 22 October, 10am-3pm Help restore the Georgian garden at Bedfords Park, and turn it into a community food growing hub.

Volunteer gardeners will help to grow food on the site in the polytunnel and in growing beds. No experience necessary, duties include sowing seeds, planting out seedlings, watering plants, preparing soil and tidying the rest of the garden.

Bedfords Park Walled Garden, Broxhill Road, Havering-Atte-Bower

Making Bunting and Mobiles

Wednesday 12 & Friday 21 August, 10.30am-12pm Get little children involved with decorating the house for a party.

Take them along to this class where they will cut out shapes and create paper mobiles and bunting. ÂŁ5, pre-book on 020 7993 5479.

Creative House, Bryant Avenue, Romford 14

Make, Bake and Decorate Clay Charms

Friday 7 August, 10.30am-12pm At this clay charm workshop kids can create small creatures in and paint them when they cool down.

Wear old clothes, book on 020 7993 5479 ÂŁ5.

Creative House, Bryant Avenue, Romford

EVENTS

Italian Market

Sunday 6 September, 10am-4pm The popular Italian market returns to Upminster town centre this September. Browse the many mouth-watering stalls bringing you all the wonderful tastes you would expect to get in Italy, such as parmigiano reggiano, prosciutto, salame, olives, extra virgin olive oils and much more.

Upminster Town Centre

Design Make and Create a tote Bag

Friday 14 August, 10.30am-12pm Let the kids give an old T-shirt a new lease of life – they can transform it into a lovely tasseled bag. The lighter the colour the better. Perfect for those who like to customise or design their own clothes. Book on 020 7993 5479. £5.

Creative House, Bryant Avenue, Romford 15

Summer Events at rainham marshes

Tuesdays 28 July - 25 August, Thursdays 30 July - 27 August, 10.30am-12pm & 1pm-2.30pm Pond Detectives: What lurks beneath our ponds and ditches?

Minibeast Hunting: What’s hiding in the special minibeast areas?

Wednesdays 29 July, 12 & 26 August, 10.30am-12pm & 1pm-2.30pm Mud Pie Mayhem: Make potions and pies out of natural materials.

Froggy Fun: Storytelling and amphibious fun. Search for frogs and make a collage from natural materials to take home Wednesday 5 and 19 August 10.30am - 12pm and 1pm - 2.30pm Hideous History: Take a journey back in time to discover the historic uses of nature found at Rainham Marshes Woodland Myths: Adventure into the woodland to discover the mysterious Green Man, the ancient spirit of nature, with storytelling and crafts All summer Free Family Fun Trail: Pick up a self-guided adventure trail sheet from the Visitor Centre any time over the holidays.

Each of the above activities costs £1 per child; accompanying adults free.

Just turn up and pay on the day. All activities based in the Marshland and Woodland Discovery Zones. Please check the signs on the day. Events occur whatever the weather! Admission doesn’t include reserve entry fees, but these are free for RSPB members and residents of Havering and Thurrock.

Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, New Tank Hill Road 16

EVENTS

Sunday Night Live Romford

Sundays 26 July, 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 August, 6, 13, 20 & 27 September, 4, 11, 18 & 25 October 5.45pm-7pm Enjoy some free live entertainment with a twist of faith, as this event features top quality artists and inspirational speakers from across the UK. Join a friend for coffee, make some new friends and soak up the atmosphere.

Costa Coffee, The Brewery, Romford

Team Havering Aquathlon

Sunday 16 August, 8am-11am If you’re aged 17+ and feeling energetic, sign up for the Havering Aquathlon – a 400m pool swim, followed by a 5k run through the local countryside.

Ideal for both first time or experienced competitors – enter online at www.runnersworld. co.uk. Entries in advance - £14 affiliated/£19 unaffiliated Entries on the day - £19 affiliated/£24 unaffiliated The Coopers’ Company and Coborn School, Upminster

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TITHE BARN Open DayS

Saturdays and Sunday, 1, 2, 15 & 16 August, 5, 6, 19 & 20 September, 3 & 4 October, 10.30am-4pm Take the family down to visit or revisit The Upminster Tithe Barn, which houses an eclectic collection of artefacts of nostalgic origin, both domestic and agricultural. From kitchen pans and china, to local Upminster brick works, children’s toys, typewriters there is something to interest everyone. Free, but donations very welcome.

Hall Lane, Upminster

EVENTS

Mini relax and indulge

Saturdays 1 August & 5 September, 10am-3pm Indulge yourself with some beauty therapies at an affordable price, just ÂŁ7 per 20 minutes.

Double bookings available, but be sure to call up well in advance as they go quickly - on 01708 434978. Indian head massage and back massages are available.

Gidea Park Library

Puppet Show

Sunday 16 August, 2pm-5pm Keep the kids out of trouble for an afternoon and take them along to see a production of The Three Little Pigs and the Wolf plus Captain Grimey at The Old Chapel in Upminster. Free, but booking is essential on 01708 222660.

The Old Chapel, St Mary’s Lane, Upminster 19

Havering Snapshot A photograph of Autumn perfectly captured at Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch, taken by a young Havering resident

My name is Fern Denyer and I am 16 years old. I have just finished my GCSEs at Abbs Cross Academy and I am looking forward to studying Photography at Havering Sixth Form College.

I took the opportunity to take this photo with my phone at Harrow Lodge park during the Autumn of last year. I think it is great that we have an open place nearby to visit and enjoy.

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SNAPSHOT

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Stunning local photography by Peter Barrett Framed Prints • Cards • Aerial Photos • Landscapes and more www.digitalcanvas.org.uk

FASHION

Style selection

For Him

Check out our new wardrobe selections for a stylish summer Image: H&M, Romford 23

three Top

swimshorts

1

2

3 1. Short swim shorts, £9.99, H&M, Romford 2. Twisted Soul mens orange skyline photo graphic print swim shorts, £12.99, Blue Inc, Romford 3. Swim shorts, £9.99, H&M, Romford

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Image: Breton Stripe T-Shirt, £16, Next, Romford

FASHION

Stone waxed canvas holdall bag, £29.99, New Look, Romford

Chino shorts, £14.99, H&M, Romford

Side stripe shorts, £10, ASDA, Romford

Trait natural stripe design T-Shirt, £24, BHS, Romford

Threadbare slim leg chino trousers, £25, M&Co, Upminster

Black double metal trim sunglasses, £7.99, New Look, Romford

Industrialize mens sea green everyday casual comfortable pique polo shirt, £7.99, Blue Inc, Romford

SUMMER STROLL Treat your feet to a pair of new summer shoes

Leather sandals, £18, online only at www.asda.com

Espadrilles, £12.99, H&M, Romford Scuba flip flop, £14.99, Superdry, Romford

Chambray Pump, £25, Next, Romford Trespass Flip Flops, £12, M&Co, Upminster 25

FASHION

Style selection

For Her

Celebrate the arrival of summer with a whole new wardrobe Image: Next, Romford 27

three Top

Beach bags

1

2 3 1. Black and white raffia tote bag, £13.50, Dorothy Perkins, Romford 2. Phase Eight Suzie Ikat beach bag, £27, Debenhams, Romford 3. Eva mirror tote bag, £22.50, Accessorize, Romford

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Image: Tribal print embellished swimsuit, £24, M&Co, Upminster

FASHION

White and black quilted ballerina pumps, £6, Primark, Romford

Colour block bar detail purse, £8, M&Co, Upminster

Navy bandeau lace dress, £20, Dorothy Perkins, Romford

Yellow floral satin dress, £45, BHS, Romford

Gabriel printed cami top, £39, Monsoon, Romford Denim skirt, £24.99, H&M, Romford

Diamanté mules, £38, Next, Romford

Print butterfly face watch, £3, Primark, Romford

BATHING BEAUTY…

Premium black cut Bag one of these pretty out swimsuit £70, Next, Romford all-in-one swimsuits to glam up your swimwear drawer Swimsuit in a Mint Flamingo print swimsuit, £28, BHS, Romford

bandeau style, £19.99, H&M, Romford

Poppy print swimsuit, £26, M&Co, Upminster

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faking it

HaveringLife brings you a helping hand in staying beautifully bronzed this summer, whatever the weather does

D

espite it being the height of summer, our fine country is not always blessed with guaranteed clear blue skies each day,

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so sometimes getting that golden glow requires a helping hand. However, to keep streak-free, be sure to follow our top five fake tanning tips‌

scrub up well Keeping your skin silky smooth as a matter of habit is essential to avoid a patchy tan.

Use a good body scrub

BEAUTY

and pay attention to particularly rough problem areas like knees, elbows, and feet. good hydration Using a decent moisturiser is really important before you apply your tan – again, pay particular attention to dry areas. Be generous in application and let it fully dry before applying your colour.

protect & perfect A good even tan is great – but you don’t literally want it all over.

Protect your hands with gloves, and eyebrows and hairline with a dab of Vaseline to avoid the tell-tale tide marks. partner up As with applying sunscreen on your back, it’s good to enlist the help of a partner

or friend to apply the tan where you can’t see, nobody wants white streaks where they couldn’t quite reach! loose women Keep your clothing loose afterwards to allow the tan to fully dry and avoid marks where clothes might rub. Wear dark clothing to avoid stains on your favourite wardrobe staples.

He-Shi day to day gradual tan, £14.49, Superdrug, Hornchurch

Clarins Instant Smoothing Self Tan, £20, Boots, Hornchurch

Ambre Solaire no ttreaks tinted shimmer 150ml, £11.49, Superdrug, Upminster

St.Tropez gradual tan in shower lotion 200ml, £14, Boots, Upminster

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DE Y FRE SI OU E D GN R E , P CH LIV O HO I ER TO CE Y & OF TE XT

PERFECT FOR

Mini 25 for £8.99

• Children’s Party Bags • Birthday Favours • Birth Announcement • Christenings & Baptisms • Mother’s Day and Father’s Day • Easter and Christmas • Teachers’ Gifts + loads more…

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FOOD & DRINK

HaveringLife

FEASTING

HaveringLife brings you the best foodie treats this issue, to help you make the most of your summer – from BBQ to picnic Image: Wicker Valley deluxe 4 person hamper, £129.99, buy online at www.tesco.com

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Chef’s corner

HaveringLife brings you everything you need for a fabulous foodie summer

Pack a picnic

Head to BHS Romford for your pick of cool bags and picnic hampers Polka dot 2 person picnic basket, £22

Nautical stripe cool bag rucksack, £16 Vintage floral 4 person picnic cool bag, £28 34

FOOD & DRINK

SAVOURY MUFFINS

Carrot & courgette

TOP TIP

Create your own charcuterie and cheese board with a selection of delicious cold meats and tasty cheeses, with fresh crusty bread. Head down to Waitrose, Upminster for a good selection, crack open the Prosecco and enjoy that summer evening on the patio.

Mango and chilli mini chicken fillets, £4, Tesco, Romford

Sweet & juicy cherries, £2.20, Waitrose, Upminster

Canti Prosecco 75cl, £9, Sainsbury’s, Hornchurch

Gianni’s ice cream deluxe gold latte macchiato, £1.39, Aldi, Upminster

INGREDIENTS • 300g plain flour • 1 tbsp baking powder • 75g grated carrot • 75g grated courgette • 75g very finely chopped spring onions

• 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg • 300ml soured cream • 100ml fresh semiskimmed milk • 1 large egg • 100g salted butter, melted

METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6.

2. Sift the flour and baking powder, and stir in the carrot, courgette, spring onions and ground nutmeg and stir until combined.

3. Whisk together the soured cream, milk, egg and melted butter and pour into the dry mixture. Stir quickly to combine.

4. Bake in muffin cases for 25 minutes. Allow to cool slightly in the tin, and serve warm.

Recipe courtesy of Sainsbury’s

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A-Z

The

of Havering Dining

HaveringLife takes you on a culinary journey through the alphabet and picks out some of the best foodie offerings in the local area

A b

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IS FOR AVTEPE Delicious Turkish food in a relaxed environment.

39 Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (01708 222569)

IS FOR BEKASH Contemporary award winning Indian cuisine holding banquet nights.

70 Victoria Road, Romford (01708 737841)

C

IS FOR (The) CRANLEIGH Stunning food – fine-dining with silver service.

84 Station Lane, Hornchurch (01708 443229)

D

IS FOR DUE FRATELLI Classic Italian dining at its best.

13-15 Station Lane, Hornchurch (01708 474054)

e

F

IS FOR FARAGLIONI Homely Italian restaurant that’s been around for years.

142 Rush Green Road, Romford (01708 748652)

FEATURE

IS FOR (Cafe) ENZO Friendly cafe serving delicious lunches and homemade cakes.

108 Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch (01708 477499)

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H 38

G

IS FOR GINGER LOUNGE Modern Indian dining with a touch of class.

121-123 Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (01708 259111)

IS FOR HUNGRY COW Amazing steaks, need we say more?

Check out HaveringLife’s restaurant review on page 44.

124 Collier Row Road, Romford (01708 747447)

Jk

i

FEATURE

IS FOR ISTANBUL GRILL Authentic Turkish cuisine, traditionally cooked, in Elm Park.

6 Broadway Parade, Elm Park Avenue (01708 471 993)

IS FOR JUBILEE RESTAURANT Experimental and fine dining served up by the students of Havering College at a bargain price.

Havering College of Further & Higher Education, Tring Gardens, Harold Hill (01708 462886)

IS FOR kervansaray Busy Turkish restaurant and takeaway serving up all the usual favourites.

160 Balgores Lane, Romford (01708 459446)

L

IS FOR LE MOULIN Little French Cafe in the centre of Hornchurch, an ideal stop-off for a croque monsieur or croissant.

18B Station Lane, Hornchurch (01708 472121)

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n M IS FOR mandarin palace High quality Chinese restaurant offering fabulous food.

197-201 High Street, Hornchurch (01708 437951)

IS FOR nino’s Relaxed Italian restaurant on Upminster’s high street –pizzas, pastas and more.

30 Corbets Tey Road Upminster (01708 224688)

O

IS FOR Othello Delicious Greek taverna with a great menu that’s not changed in decades.

25 Station Road, Upminster (01708 227151)

IS FOR PEKING GARDEN Tasty Chinese food in the heart of Hornchurch.

36-38 Station Lane, Hornchurch (01708 471988)

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P

FEATURE

IS FOR queen’s theatre The theatre’s cafe serves up home cooked daily specials, plus paninis, jacket potatoes and more.

The Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch (01708 462379)

Q

IS FOR RAPHAEL’S RESTAURANT Yet more Turkish dining – this time in the beautiful surroundings of Raphael Park.

43 Main Road, Gidea Park (01708 731107)

RS

IS FOR SIMPLY BLUES Good old fashioned American dining – steak, ribs, burgers, chicken and cocktails.

48 Station Lane, Hornchurch (01708 440438) 41

tV

IS FOR TARANTINO Authentic Italian dining with occasional live music and disco events.

51 High Street, Hornchurch (01708 504030)

42

U

IS FOR UMBERTO’S Warm and friendly Italian restaurant with an intimate and cosy atmosphere.

195 High Street, Hornchurch (01708 475218)

IS FOR (The) VILLAGE BAR & GRILL A restaurant with a varied menu. Influences come from Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Mexico, Asia and of course traditional British cuisine.

72 Station Lane, Hornchurch (01708 444012)

FEATURE

W

X

IS FOR ???

Ok there are literally no restaurants beginning with X in Havering.

Found one? Email hello@haveringlife.co.uk and let us know!

IS FOR WILDWOOD Right in the centre of Hornchurch – pizzas, meat and fish dishes, plus a large outdoor area for summer socialising.

168 High Street, Hornchurch (01708 471429)

IS FOR YIN COURT An all-you-can-eat Chinese ‘buffet’ with a difference as it’s all freshly cooked to order.

153 St. Marys Lane, Upminster (01708 220114)

Z

y

IS FOR ZARANA Traditional curries plus modern Indian and Bangladeshi dishes in a smart and colourful setting.

55 High Street, Hornchurch (01708 456000)

RESTAURANT REVIEW

hungry cow, collier row

HaveringLife heads out for steak and chips at the Hungry Cow

F

ancying a good old fashioned steak and chips, this issue’s review took us away from the Italians in Hornchurch and the Indians in Romford, a little further

44

afield to the Hungry Cow in Collier Row. The brown façade in a partly residential location led to a modern interior with friendly staff, in fact they pride themselves

on a high level of customer service.

Initially distracted by the ridiculously reasonable set menu (£14.95 for a gourmet menu of amuse bouche, soup, starter, main, dessert and tea or coffee), a decision to go a la carte and order a giant T-bone was decided upon. With a choice of fillet, ribeye, rump, sirloin and cote

FOOD & DRINK

de beuf, the steak-lover is spoilt for choice.

Attention to quality has been paid to all courses, as starters were fantastic – cod and salmon fishcakes were chosen, which were hot and crispy - a generous portion that certainly tasted homemade, and crispy squid with lemon mayonnaise was just as good.

Burgers came loaded up and with hand cut chips, while others in the party went for the grilled chicken and confit duck leg.

But really, here, steak is king – and the

medium-rare T-Bone did not disappoint, the garlic butter setting off the flavour perfectly. At the Hungry Cow, all of the meat, fish, dairy and vegetables are sourced directly from artisan producers – quality British ingredients.

Despite mouths

watering at the toffee and vanilla cheesecake, eton mess and chocolate tart on the dessert menu, the delicious starters and mains defeated every one of us and we ran out of space! However, it is simply a good excuse to return on an empty stomach for a fresh attempt another day.

124 Collier Row Road, Romford RM5 2BB, 01708 747447, www.hungry-cow.co.uk 45

TRAVEL

HaveringLife needs you!

Can you write? Get in touch if you would like to submit an article idea for HaveringLife magazine, or if you are interested in being interviewed for a story you have to tell about the local area. Or perhaps you have some fascinating Havering photographs or stories?

If you would like to contribute, or have any feedback about the magazine, please get in touch via email at hello@haveringlife.co.uk or you can follow us on twitter and send a message @HaveringLife.

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PETS CORNER

o t g n i d r o c c a The world

COCO & MAX

HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs keep their paws on the pulse, bringing you doggie facts, best buys and their top tweet

MAX

I

COCO

t has been a fun few months for us sausages.

First was Max’s 6th birthday back in June, we celebrated by enjoying the huge bones dad bought for us, as well as destroying numerous squeaky toys. We just had a brilliant holiday at Essex Pooch Palace – our favourite place to stay when mum and dad jet off. We insist on going five star, and The palace has a spa, cinema and lots of other doggies to play with.

Tennis ball for pets 3 pack, £1, www.poundland.co.uk

Chewy dog toy assorted, £2.25, www.wilko.com

DOGGIE FACT In total th ere is said to be arou nd 400 million do gs in the world

TOP TWEET: @BarkingMadHQ Love dogs? Like to look after one?. Become a host for #BarkingMad and a have a 4 legged guest stay for a holiday. #DogSittingUK #DogLovers 47

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Email sales@drathmore.co.uk www.drathmore.co.uk

INTERIORS

Inspirational

INTERIORS

We take style outdoors this issue with everything you need to get ready for a fabulous summer Image: Bentley 1.7m mesh dining collection, ÂŁ430, Wilkinson, Romford

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INTERIORS

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1. White ‘Futura’ dining table and 6 pink ‘Iowa’ chairs, £612.50, Debenhams, Romford 2. La Hacienda garden adjustable height electric patio heater, £124.99, Argos, Hornchurch 3. Blooma Gallant green jar solar powered LED lantern, £5, B&Q, Romford 4. Lucca garden bench with cushion, £99.99, Homebase, Romford 5. 2.7m Herb garden Shanghai parasol, £59.99, The Range, Romford 6. Anya rattan effect egg chair, £225, B&Q, Romford 7. Lantern solar light, £1, Poundland, Romford 8. Bronze toned hanging lantern, £16.99, TK Maxx, Romford 9. Ornate barrel wall lantern, £15, Wilkinson, Romford 10. Verano chiminea, £70, Wilkinson, Romford 11. Portable round charcoal BBQ, £19.99, Argos, Hornchurch 12. Peru 4 seater garden furniture set, £169.99, Homebase, Romford 13. Maze rattan toronto daybed, £749.99, The Range, Romford

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Vacation to‌

MADEIRA HaveringLife heads to the Portuguese island for sun, sea and plenty of steak

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TRAVEL

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I

n the Atlantic ocean, around 250 miles from the Canary Islands’ Tenerife, sits the Portuguese island of Madeira.

Around a million tourists flock to the island year-round and the fireworks display at New Year has previously been recognised as the biggest in the world by The Guinness Book of Records.

The capital, Funchal, is an ideal place to stay being just 25 minutes by car from the airport, located in the south of the island.

There are a wealth of fabulous five star hotels situated just outside of the main town in a placed called Lido, offering good value for money despite their high star rating. The

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TRAVEL

Melia Madeira Mare; left: Funchal

Melia Madeira Mare

Melia Madeira Mare is around 3km from the centre of Funchal which can be walked in around half an hour. The hotel is luxurious, with spacious bedrooms, a large outdoor pool and plenty of sunbeds and outdoor seating.

Guests can make use of the indoor pool should

the weather turn, plus the gym and Malo Spa, where there are all kinds of beauty treatments and massages offered.

Breakfast can be taken on the poolside, with a huge display of anything you could desire – from fresh and dried fruits, to croissants cake, meats and cheeses, a full 55

The view at Cabo Girao

English breakfast and even sparkling wine.

There are several restaurants surrounding the hotel, all of which sell outstanding food.

Visit Leeno’s for a ‘steak on the stone’ where your melt-in-the-mouth fillet will arrive rare on a slab of hot stone 56

accompanied by dips, salad and jacket potato.

Cook the steak yourself at your table to get it just to your liking.

The Chanceller restaurant just across from the hotel also serves great food. Try the tasty lamb chops, or the delicious slow-

cooked pork in white wine and garlic sauce.

All over the island you can order the traditional garlic bread which is delicious, but chocoholics should leave space for homemade chocolate mousse, also on many restaurant menus.

TRAVEL

Hire a car and take a trip around Madeira as there is plenty to see. Funchal itself has a cable car situated along the seafront so you can travel high up into the mountains to a botanical garden.

Madeira is not blessed with long sandy beaches, but there are small man-made sites for sunbathing and swimming at Praia da Calheta and Praia de Machico, where the sand has been imported from Morocco.

For real beachseekers, however, a one-day cruise to the nearby island of Porto Santo is a must, where sandy beaches are in abundance. The ferry takes two and a half hours, leaving Madeira early morning and

Swimming at Porto Moniz

“Those simply wanting to swim should visit Porto Moniz at the very north-west of the island, where there are lidos built for sea swimming� arriving back to Funchal in the evening.

Those simply wanting to swim should visit Porto Moniz at the very north-west of the island, where there are lidos

The view at Cabo Girao

built for sea swimming.

These have all the thrills of swimming in the ocean with all the comforts of changing rooms, snack bars and toilets. There is space for

Flowers are seen all over Madeira

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sunbathing on the rocks.

A levada walk in the mountains is great for those wishing to stretch their legs. The waterside walks afford great views of the island, with plenty of opportunity to appreciate the wildlife and beautiful flowers.

For spectacular views from way up high, visit the viewing platform at Cabo Girao which is 580m above sea level.

Also worth a visit are the caves at Sao Vicente,

formed after a volcanic eruption 400,000 years ago. The tour is great and includes an interactive information centre and short films.

Whatever your reason for visiting, Madeira is sure to charm you, making you wish to return one day.

The caves at Sao Vicente

Levada walk

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TRAVEL

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Mini-break

Dublin HaveringLife visits the Emerald Isle for a weekend of sightseeing, shopping and Guinness drinking

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TRAVEL

Where to stay StayCity apartments in Millennium Walk are ideal if you are travelling in a group as they are spacious, situated right in the city centre and have everything you will need for your visit to Dublin, as well as being reasonably priced. www.staycity.com

looking for something arty, the Designyard gallery exhibits the best of contemporary Irish jewellery and work, as well as glass, ceramics, wood, bog oak, silver, bronze and textiles.

Find it at 25 South Frederick Street.

Odessa where you can dine on calamari, slow roasted pork belly and fillet steak, before heading up to the roof terrace for drinks overlooking the city until late. www.luigimalones.com www.odessa.ie

Food & Drink The city is full of fantastic restaurants and places to sit back Shopping with a pint of Guinness.

In addition to high When the foundations street stores and shopping centres, you’ll for Luigi Malones find stalls of crafts and restaurant were being set, an ancient Dublin hand made products City wall dating back on the first Sunday of to 1260 was discovered. the month, at D-light Read about the wall, Studios’ market (46 and indulge in fiery North Great Clarence hot wings, burgers and Street). Irish Farmers Markets are held every steak here, washed down with a Maltesers weekend at various Cocktail or two. For a locations around special night out, visit Dublin. For those

see the sights There is so much to see in Dublin, and one of the best ways is via the hop on-hop off sightseeing bus, where you’ll catch sights such as Trinity College, Christ Church Cathedral, St Patricks Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse.

Getting there Ryanair flies regularly to Dublin from Stansted. www.ryanair.com 61

The Directory

Where to find all the lovely things featured in this issue…

shopping HORNCHURCH Argos 0845 165 7274 84-86 High Street, RM12 4UH www.argos.co.uk Boots 442665 205 Station Lane, RM12 6LL www.boots.com Sainsbury’s 475214 101-105 High Street, RM11 1TX www.sainsburys.co.uk Superdrug 446742 70-74 High Street, RM12 4UW www.superdrug.com

ROMFORD B&Q 336600 Tangent Link, RM3 8GZ www.diy.com Debenhams 0844 561 6161 Market Place, RM1 3ET www.debenhams.com Homebase 0345 640 7034 Davidson Way, RM7 0AJ www.homebase.co.uk

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Tesco 0345 6779589 Bryant Avenue, RM3 0LL www.tesco.com the BREWERY, romford The Range 771790 www.therange.co.uk T K Maxx 761978 www.tkmaxx.com

www.blueinc.co.uk Poundland 606311 www.poundland.co.uk Wilkinson 738132 www.wilkinsonplus.com

UPMINSTER Aldi 0800 042 0800 119-129 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 2QB www.aldi.co.uk

the Liberty, romford Accessorize 747337 www.accessorize.com BHS 0844 4885127 www.bhs.co.uk Dorothy Perkins 760348 www.dorothyperkins.com H&M 0844 736 9000 www.hm.com Monsoon 747337 uk.monsoon.co.uk New Look 760637 www.newlook.com Next 0844 844 5235 www.next.co.uk Primark 721187 www.primark.com Superdry 760588 www.superdry.com

Superdrug 220303 6 Bell Corner, Corbets Tey Road RM14 2AT www.superdrug.com

THE MALL, romford ASDA 388700 www.asda.com Blue Inc. 752847

Waitrose 224444 218 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 3BT www.waitrose.com

Boots 0800 042 0800 57-59 Corbets Tey Road, RM14 2AJ www.boots.com M&Co 251280 57 Station Road, RM14 2SU www.mandco.com

DIRECTORY

FEATURED PLACES gidea park Gidea Park Library 434978 Balgores Lane, RM2 6BS www.havering.gov.uk

Upminster Tithe Barn Museum of Nostalgia 500600 Hall Lane, RM14 1AU www.upminstertithebarn.co.uk

ROMFORD Costa Coffee 740623 Pavillion 1, The Brewery, RM1 1AU www.costa.co.uk Creative House (Crafty Arta Ltd.) 020 7993 5479 Bryant Ave, RM3 0AP www.craftyarts.co.uk

UPMINSTER Coopers’ Company and Coborn School 250500 St Marys Lane, RM14 3HS www.cooperscoborn.org.uk The Old Chapel 222660 Sacred Heart of Mary Girls’ School, St Mary’s Lane RM14 2QR www.theoldchapelupminster.co.uk

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