L
Flying the
C h ri s t m a s ve
Purple Flag Your guide to a safe & vibrant night out this Christmas
THE
BIG Switch on A guide to this year’s events
Your guide to Cambridge this Christmas
Dining out this
Christmas Ideas on where to eat out this Christmas
WIN A £250 Love Cambridge Gift Card
Gift
Guides
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O N E G I F T C A R D. THOUSANDS OF CHOICES. For a full list of where you can spend the Love Cambridge Gift Card please visit www.love-cambridgegiftcard.com
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Welcome
bridge
Welcome to the 2021 Love Cam
de we
Love Christmas Magazine – insi
ge
brid share with you what makes Cam r.
truly special at this time of yea
Loving Christmas | Welcome
Love Cambridge Gift Card Don’t forget about the Love Cambridge Gift Card! Makes the perfect Christmas present. Can be used in over 200 shops, bars, cafés and restaurants in Cambridge. Buy online at www.love-cambridgegiftcard.com
Shopping at Christmas time does not get much better than when you come into Cambridge, the lights are twinkling, the carols are being sung – a truly wonderful experience for all. Our gift guides this year will hopefully give you some inspiration on what to buy for all your loved ones. With present ideas for all budgets, Cambridge really is a one stop shop for all your Christmas shopping.
On pages 14 & 15 you will find a Christmas Shopping Trail Map introducing you to a small selection of the wonderful Independents you will find in Cambridge. And if you turn to page 30, you will find a large selection of gift ideas from a range of wonderful local shops. Grand Arcade are delighted to be bringing a new Christmas lighting scheme which we talk about on page 10 and you can also see a snippet of their plans for the festive period. Don’t forget to check out the Virtual Sleigh Ride! We are planning The Big Switch On this year for Sunday 21st November, and thank you to Star Radio for helping bring this event to you both live and on air! From midday join us at the Market Square for an afternoon of performances from local groups, choirs and singers, with the lights being turned on at 5pm. If you would prefer to stay in the warmth of your own home, you can join Ros & Josh live on air for this year’s Cambridge Christmas Lights Switch On, with all the excitement leading up to the big moment, a fabulously festive soundtrack, and specially recorded performances from some of the acts
#ShopLocal – support your high street
joining us on stage. So, don’t miss a moment of Cambridge’s Christmas Lights Switch On – live on air and online. Listen to Star Radio on 100.7FM, DAB, online at star.radio and through your smart speaker. We are also going to be at the Train Station on Thursday 18th November switching on their Christmas tree. Join Star Radio Breakfast Presenter Josh Lovatt to switch on the tree and officially kick off Christmas in the CB1 area. Starting at around 5pm, Josh will be bringing his decks and party tunes (and maybe the odd Christmas song) to the Station and asking you to help celebrate the start of Christmas. There will be an opportunity to win some Love Cambridge Gift Cards and North Pole Ice Skating tickets, so bring a friend or a colleague and join us. We are also offering one lucky winner a £250 shopping spree, so don’t forget to enter our competition which can be found on page 24. Wishing you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Becky Burrell, Cambridge BID
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Loving Christmas | The North Pole Ice Rink
The North Pole
returns to Cambrid
ge
this November
A flurry of frozen fun is coming the return of The North Pole Ice
to Cambridge with
Rink this November
Between 19th November 2021 and 3rd January 2022, The North Pole Ice Rink, nestled amongst the trees on Parker’s Piece, is returning to Cambridge to turn the region into its very own winter wonderland. The North Pole has everything visitors need to start feeling festive, with more seasonal fun than ever before. Skate in style under the sun, moon and stars in the heart of Cambridge with the return of the popular clear span roof, offering a truly magical experience without having to worry about the weather. The Big Wheel joins the long-list of family-filled fun at this year’s The North Pole, offering unprecedented views of the celebrations. For the real thrill-seekers, The North Pole will also house a three-lane, real ice slide – the UK’s longest ice slide! After a fun-filled skating session, visitors can refuel at one of our festival stalls, offering delicious bratwursts, steaming cups of hot chocolate with marshmallows, traditional mulled wine, and much more.
Ticket Prices Tickets for The North Pole are available now, with prices starting at £13.50 for adults and £11.50 for children, with discounted family and season tickets also available. For more information and to book tickets, visit
W W W.T H E N O R T H P O L E C A M B R I D G E . C O . U K
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Love Cambridge Gift Card – one card, thousands of choices
Loving Christmas | Lion Yard
ICE SKATE ICE SLIDE ICE BAR
NEW NEW
GET YOUR SKATES ON, CAMBRIDGE!
19 NOVEMBER 2021 – 3 JANUARY 2022 THE NORTH POLE IS BACK, BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVEN BEFORE, WITH OUR COVERED ICE RINK, A NEW ICE BAR, AND A NEW ICE SLIDE (THE UK’S LONGEST!)
Book tickets at:
THENORTHPOLECAMBRIDGE.CO.UK 5
Loving Christmas | What’s On
n ’ O s t a h W e Arts Cambridg
* Photography from
previous Cambrid
ge Art’s Theatre Pan
tomimes’
sents...
Theatre pre
ALADDIN
2nd December 2021 – 9th January 2022 All your wishes shall be granted this Christmas as Cambridge Arts Theatre’s spectacular family pantomime Aladdin flies into town on a magical carpet ride. Aladdin longs for riches, good fortune and his one true love while stuck working in Widow Twankey’s launderette. But when the dastardly Abanazar lures him into the depths of a deep dark cave, Aladdin’s life is turned upside down! With the Genie by his side and the magic lamp in his pocket, Aladdin finds himself on the adventure of a lifetime. But Abanazar has other plans... Can Aladdin defeat him and win the hand of the Princess, or will he be back in the launderette before you can say “open sesame”?
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Starring Cambridge’s #1 pantomime dame Matt Crosby (Dame Trott’s Panto Palaver, Cinderella) as Widow Twankey. Further casting to be announced! This enchanting tale is brimming with singalong songs, sparkling costumes and side-splitting jokes for the whole family to enjoy. Christmas in Cambridge just wouldn’t be complete without the Arts Theatre pantomime, and Aladdin promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
Ticket Prices Prices range from £17 to £46 For more information or to book your ticket visit W W W. C A M B R I D G E A R T S T H E AT R E . C O M
Unique, personal, quirky – shop independents
Books of the Year
Buy one get one half price on selected highlights of 2021 1 Trinity Street, Cambridge | 01223 333333 | booksho@cambridge.org www.cupbookshop.co.uk
Loving Christmas | What’s On
What’s On Cambridge Corn Exchange
Having wowed audiences across the UK since 2016, Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet returns to Cambridge Corn Exchange this new year with two spectacular productions of Tchaikovsky’s best-loved ballets: perennial favourite, The Nutcracker, and the elegant Swan Lake. Under the expert direction of Marina Medvetskaya, this acclaimed company combines classical training and technique with outstanding soloists to entertain audiences in breathtaking style. A full orchestra complements the purity of the dancing and traditional staging, to bring a taste of Imperial Russia to the UK.
Swan Lake
1st – 2nd January 2022 The story of Prince Siegfried and the Swan Princess is a tragic tale of betrayal and a love that triumphs over evil. The world’s most romantic ballet is magnificently brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s sublime and haunting score. Music: Pyotr Tchaikovsky
THE NUTCRACKER 29th – 31st December
This spectacular new version of The Nutcracker, with stunning baroque designs, is a delightfully festive tale and the perfect treat for the whole family. The timeless story of Clara, who is whisked away on an enchanting adventure by her Nutcracker Prince, is the perfect introduction to Russian classical ballet. Full of magical effects, the ballet is set to the captivating and instantly recognisable Tchaikovsky score.
Ticket Prices Matinee: £34, £29, £19 (students/senior £23 any seat, U16s £19 any seat) Evening: £39, £34, £24, £19 All tickets include a £3 booking fee Please visit the website to book online W W W. C O R N E X . C O. U K
Music: Pyotr Tchaikovsky
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#ShopLocal – support your high street
T
a D a
Loving Christmas | Grand Arcade
Get ready for a unique
Christmas at Grand Arcade surrounded by new decorations and a range of innovative events Visit from 21st November and make sure to look up at the ceiling… Suspended trees, giant baubles and magical lanterns will be floating above your head!
fly Slip, slide, the and glide in 20th om fr , gh Slei til un r Novembe ber em ec D th 24
Then jump aboard Grand Arcade’s Magical Sleigh Ride on the first floor (next to The White Company)! You will explore Santa’s Secret HQ where all the elves live, and the Christmas magic happens… Seating up to 8 people, this virtual reality experience is the perfect family attraction. You’ll be seamlessly transported to Lapland using our HD VR headsets and enjoy an intrepid journey along with the motions the Sleigh has to offer.
Book Tickets
Buy tickets on the spot or visit the website to book in advance W W W. G R A N D A R C A D E . C O. U K
And while exploring the centre to find the perfect present,
you might bump into more surprises… A Carolling Owl who sings Christmas tunes… The Talking Letterbox, where little ones can post their letter to Santa, and have the chance to win extra gifts from Grand Arcade! Or even Mrs Claus, who will be telling Christmas tales on 5th, 11th and 18th December. Book a free session for your family at grandarcade.co.uk
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Love Cambridge Gift Card – one card, thousands of choices
www.thelionyard.co.uk
Take part in our direct line to Santa event. 11,12,17,18,19,20,21,22,23 & 24 Dec Book your FREE space on our website or Facebook Page.
and more
Loving Christmas | Christ’s Lane
e n a L s ’ Christ
Nestled between Grand Arcade and The Grafton, Christ’s Lane can be found in the heart of the City offering you some retail therapy along with a choice of eateries. With a large H&M and Zara, you will be able to find gifts for all the family, and don’t forget to pick up a little something for yourself. Metro Bank & Tesco Extra are there for all the essentials and Starbucks and Sushi Mania will be on hand to fuel your shopping spree. Nail Varnish Zara, £5.99 each
HEAVENLY DESSERTS This year sees the opening of the Heavenly Desserts, an established fine dining desserts restaurant dedicated to providing customers with the best possible experience. The creative team brings unique creations to life which offers a winning combination of taste, appearance and quality.
Black Boot H&M, £39.99
Founded in 2008, Heavenly Desserts is the UK’s leading luxury dessert restaurant brand and can be enjoyed in almost 40 locations across the UK. The brand has recently opened its latest store in the heart of Cambridge, located on the popular Christ’s Lane.
Cuff, H&M, £39.99 Double Strand Necklace Zara, £17.99
Quilted Bag H&M, £24.99
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Serving freshly made light and fluffy waffles & crepes, soft cookie dough & bespoke cheesecakes, Heavenly Desserts use authentic Italian gelato and real Belgian chocolate to accompany their dishes, as well as other fine ingredients that have been carefully sourced to guarantee consistent quality and taste with every dish. With lots of delicious desserts to choose from, the extensive menu has something for everyone to indulge in, as well as an extensive gluten-free and vegan menu. Whether you desire a traditional British pudding or something a little more unique, Heavenly Desserts continue to be an innovator and trend setter in the world of luxury desserts.
Unique, personal, quirky – shop independents
Loving Christmas | Gifts for Her
r e H r o sf
Gift
l lady
at specia
ts for th eous gif
Gorg
Dolce & Gabbana The Only One Gift Set The Fragrance Shop, from £81
A Very Happy Lush Christmas Gift Set Lush, £30
Velour Swing Dress Pocket Watch & Petticoats, £65 Blue Sapphire & Diamond Cluster Earrings Cellini, £5,395
Ring White Stones Ring Thomas Sabo, £198
Faux Fur Jacket River Island, £130
WE LOVE THIS
ANYDAY Quilted Belt Bag John Lewis & Partners, £25
Aery Living Nordic Cedar Reed Diffuser Iris & Violet, £38
Absolute Classics Hamper Hotel Chocolat, £80 Boot New Look, £36
Winter Signature Candle The White Company, £20
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Loving Christmas | Gifts for Her On The Go Running Armband Oliver Bonas, £24 PrimaDonna Arau Lingerie Rigby & Peller, £118 Graceland Boot Deichmann, £34.99
Leopard Print Pyjama Set with Eye Mask M&S, £35
PrimaDonna Arau Lingerie Rigby & Peller, £66
Meline Trainer Boudoir Femme, £120
ANYDAY Curly Fur Footbed Slippers John Lewis and Partners, £32
Himylayan Salt Set Primark, £6
Espresso Martini Next, £15
Sunset Riot Gift Set All Saints, £49
Zara Emotions Collectors Set by Jo Malone Zara, £99
Tennis Bracelet Silver Thomas Sabo, £349 Lightening Bolt Purse Accessorize. £12
Slipper Sketchers, £70
Constance II Military Style Boot Cheaney, £345
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown £30, Marks & Spencer LoveCambs LoveCambridge_
LoveCambridge_
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Loving Christmas | Gifts for Him
Mens Jacket River Island, £45
m i H r o f s t f i G
Collection Scarf M&S, £29.50
st for him
Special gifts, ju
Saint Sterling Silver Necklace All Saints, £89
Beard Grooming Kit FatFace, £19.50
Pub Quiz in a Can FatFace, £10 Hugo Boss Velocity Black Strap Watch Ernest Jones, from £279
Cable Crew Sweater Levi’s, £95
Candle Set Penhaligan’s, £56
Seasoning Set Wilko, £8
Winter Puddings H-Box Hotel Chocolat, £13.50
Tiger Moth Boot Cheaney, £425 Mens Shirt River Island, £35
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Loving Christmas | Gifts for Him
Whiskey Toppers Wilko, £6 ANYDAY Borg Vest John Lewis & Partners, £45
St Tropez Book Zara, £70
Brushed Cotton Checked Pyjama Set M&S, £29.50
Archfit Boot Sketchers, £85
King’s College Chapel Jigsaw King’s College Visitor Centre, £20
Tie, Tie Pin & Cufflinks King’s College Visitor Centre, from £10
Merino Crew Neck Jumper Charles Tyrwhitt, £59.95 Check Mule Slipper The White Company, £42 Harvard Ultimate Gift Set M&S, £19.50
Chilli Set Next, £12
TOP PICK Textured Weekend Bag M&S, £79 Into the Wild Gift Set Lush, £50 Monogram Hot Water Bottle Next, £16
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown
www.love-cambridge.com/signup £30, Marks & Spencer
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Loving Christmas | Glitter & Gold
Gold Stargazer Pendant Necklace by Ellie Air Cambridge Contemporary Crafts, £350
Etched Star Cocktail Shaker Oliver Bonas, £24.50
Etched Star Ice Bucket Oliver Bonas, £49.50
Rachel Jackson Electric Deco Heart Necklace Boudoir Femme, £95
Sequin Coin Purse Accessorize, £12
Gold Belt Zara, £17.99
WE LOVE THIS Gold Dress River Island, £90
d l o G & r e Glitt tz at Christmas... esn’t love a bit of gli
Who do
Australian Opal & Diamond Ring Cellini, £2,595
Glitter Nail Varnish Zara, £5.99
28 Shade Glitter Eyeshadow Palette Primark, £4
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Gold Gluggle Jug TK Maxx, £12.50
Silver Prosecco Hanging Decoration M&S, £6
Rachel Jackson Illusion Huggie Hoops Boudoir Femme, £65
Silver Bells Shower Bomb Lush, £3.50
Candle Holder H&M, £12.99
Glass Base Round Vase Primark, £4
Stuck for gift ideas this Christmas
The Big Switch On
Sunday 21st November The Big Christmas Lights Switch On takes place on Sunday 21st November, and Cambridge BID and Star Radio invite you to join in the fun and festivities.
The annual Big Switch On kicks off the Christmas season this year with Star Radio taking control of the stage, promising to entertain the crowds from midday. There will be a lively line up from local schools, performing arts clubs, choirs and much much more. This year we are joined by the stars of Cambridge Arts Theatre Pantomime to help us switch on the lights. If you do not want to attend this year, you can join Ros & Josh live on air for this year’s Cambridge Christmas Lights Switch On. With all the excitement leading up to the big moment, a fabulously festive soundtrack and specially recorded performances from some of the acts joining us on stage. Whether you’ll be with us in Market Square, or enjoying the countdown to Christmas from home, you can follow the event throughout the afternoon on air and online as we build up to the big switch on at 5pm. We’ll also bring you a front seat view of Cambridge’s Christmas lights being switched on in multiple locations across the city via the Star Radio and Love Cambridge Facebook pages.
ar Listen to St 0.7FM, 10 on io Rad e at DAB, onlin d star.radio an art sm ur yo through speaker.
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown
The £30, Love Cambridge Marks & SpencerGift Card can help
Photo credit: Martin Bond, A Cambridge Diary
Loving Christmas | The Big Switch On
Market Square Schedule* 12.30 Chris Andrews 13.00 Vocal Remix 13.30 Stagecoach 14:00 Razzamatazz 14.30 Safira 15.00 Tom Korni 15.30 On Stage Performing Arts 16.00 Magenta Slipperz 16.30 Stars of Cambridge Arts Theatre Panto 17.00 Lights Switched On! *Correct at time of going to print
All events are subject to Covid restrictions and should the Winter Plan be introduced may be cancelled. Please check our social media channels for up-to-date information. To keep the event safe, please do not attend if you or anyone in your group has tested positive for Covid-19 or is showing symptoms, has experienced symptoms of Covid-19 in the last 14 days, has been in close proximity to anyone who has experienced symptoms in the last 14 days has been instructed to self-isolate or are awaiting Covid-19 test results.
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Loving Christmas | Station Tree Switch On
Station Tree Switch On
Thursday 18th November
This year a separate event will take place on Thursday 18th November to officially switch on the Christmas Tree at Cambridge Train Station. Join Star Radio Breakfast Presenter Josh Lovatt to switch on the tree and officially kick off Christmas in the CB1 area. Starting at around 5pm, Josh will be bringing his decks and party tunes (and maybe the odd Christmas song) to the Station and asking you to help celebrate the start of Christmas.
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown
#ShopLocal £30, Marks– &support Spencer your high street
Local bars & restaurants will be on hand to provide some refreshments with the lights being switched on at around 6pm. There will be a chance to win some Love Cambridge Gift Cards and The North Pole Ice Skating tickets too, so come along and bring the whole family.
Josh Lovatt
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Prepare for a moment of indulgence
CHRIST’S LANE
s
a m t s i r h C s i th Win Big
G IF T C A R D E G ID R B M LO V E C A W IN A £ 2 5 0 Cambridge is brimming with wonderful things to do and see, and Cambridge BID are delighted to offer you the chance to win a £250 Love Cambridge gift Card to spend in over 200 businesses in the city. You can use it for your Christmas shopping or treat yourself, the choice is yours! For a full list of businesses that accept the card, please visit www.love-cambridgegiftcard.com
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For your chance to win, please visit
W W W. L O V E - C A M B R I D G E . C O M / C O M P E T I T I O N S
Love Cambridge Gift Card – one card, thousands of choices
Loving Christmas | Gifts for Kids
s d i K r o f Gifts e Presents to mak
Snowman Cookie Set Wilko, £4
Kids Hot Chocolate Next, £6
ical this year
Christmas mag
Nordic Fair Isle Kids Jumper Polarn O. Pyret, £30
Portly Penguins Hotel Chocolat, £8
Alphabet Keyring FatFace, £5 King’s College Bear King’s College Visitor Centre, £20
Girls Light Up Trainer Sketchers, £50
Under the Sea Bath Fizzer FatFace, £7.50
3D Christmas Tree Advent John Lewis & Partners, £9.99
Percy Pig™ Blanket M&S, £12.50
Frog Bike Rutland Cycling, £440
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Magic Reindeer Kids Pyjamas Polarn O. Pyret, £26
Make sure you follow us on social media
Loving Christmas | Gifts for Kids
Christmas Press-on Nails Primark, £1
Girls Sweatshirt River Island, £25
Hey! Hollywood Bathbomb Lush, £5.95
ANYDAY Mark Making Frill Sweatshirt John Lewis & Partners, from £10
Present Sack Next, £15
Owl Hand Warmer FatFace, £9.50 Desktop Kits Raspberry Pi, from £80
Harry Potter Self Stir Mug Wilko, £5 Elf on a Shelf Wilko, £3
Boys Polo Top River Island, £18
Snoopy Beanie Hat Zara, £9.99
TOP PICK
Stories from Around the World TK Maxx, £3.99
Ride on Car The White Company, £120
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown £30, Marks & Spencer LoveCambs LoveCambridge_
LoveCambridge_
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Loving Christmas | Markets
s t e k r a M e g d Cambri Cambridge is very
market, offering a
ng, 7 day a week
lucky to have a thrivi range of produce to
suit all tastes
Located in the centre of the city, in front of The Guildhall, the market really is a shopping destination in its own right, where you can find some wonderful, quirky Christmas gifts.
GENERAL MARKET Cambridge is a market city, and stalls have been trading in the historic market square since the Middle Ages. The General Market runs from Monday to Saturday in the main market square, opposite the Guildhall. Trading between 10am – 4pm Monday – Saturday, it is a hive of activity, with around 100 stalls offering a selection of goods ranging from fruit and vegetables, vinyl, clothes, gifts and flowers, to sweets, jewellery, books, recycled goods and hot and cold food. The market has seen a flurry of new traders recently, including Shelly Bakes Vegan Cakes, HMC Framing who are offering a bespoke picture framing service, and Traditional Pottery from Poland selling some beautiful pieces and collectors items. Keep an eye on the market’s social channels as they are updated daily on who is trading and when.
Sunday Arts, Craft & Local Produce Market The Sunday Arts, Craft and Local Produce Market is also situated in the main Market Square. Open every Sunday, between 10am – 4pm, this market offers a selection of produce from the region’s most esteemed artists, craftspeople, photographers and farmers.
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Loving Christmas | Markets
Il Molino Organic Extra Virgin Olive from £14
The Hemp Store Soap £6.50
The Hemp Store Hamper from £35
All Saints Garden Art & Craft Market The All Saints Garden, Art & Craft Market is held every Saturday and some weekdays in peak season, including the week leading up to Christmas. The ethos of the market is “We Make What We Sell” and as such affords visitors the opportunity to meet the artists, makers and craftspeople. Situated in a beautiful outdoor setting opposite Trinity College, it offers a range of bespoke gifts such as ceramics, jewellery, glass items, artwork and much much more.
STREET TRADING Cambridge offers an excellent range of street traders located around the historic city centre, along Silver Street and by The Grafton. They include several retail and food and drink traders. With food traders located across the City selling hot dogs, jacket potatoes, savoury and sweet crepes, and a vegetarian stall selling delicious falafel wraps, there’s no excuse to stay hungry whilst in the City.
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown
www.love-cambridge.com/signup £30, Marks & Spencer
CAMBRIDGEMARKETUK CAMBRIDGEMARKET CAMMARKETS
Follow us on social media!
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Shop Independently this Christmas
WE LOVSE THI
Rino & Pelle Faux Fur Coat Boudoir Femme, £160
Have you thought about buying some of your gifts from the huge range of wonderful Independents we have in Cambridge? With a huge selection to choose from, here are just a few ideas.
Ombre Safari Scarf Boudoir Femme, £69
Blue & Cream Striped Throw Iris & Violet, £22
Emerald Green Leather Sabrina Bag Sage Brown, £225
Emma Birts Sitting on a Rainbow Cambridge Contemporary Crafts, £295
Central Perk Cookie Jar Jacks on Trinity, £24.99 Small Boxing Hares Sculpture Angela Reed, £69
Janie Withers Rosebay Grasses Embroidered Purse Cambridge Contemporary Crafts, £25
Christmas Wreath Robin King’s College Visitor Centre, £130
Wooden Nesting Nativity Set King’s College Visitor Centre, £25
Dog Ball Launcher Jacks on Trinity, £19.99 Polaroid GO Campkins, £109.99 Tobbie the Self-Guiding A. I. Robot Jacks on Trinity, £39.99
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Unique, personal, quirky – shop independents
Loving Christmas | Dining out this Christmas...
s i th t u o g n Dini . . . s a m t s i r Ch cious eateries, so this
Cambridge is jam packed full of deli Christmas, why not try and sample
as many as possible?
Here is just a very small selection of
what’s on offer...
The Tipsy Vegan Brand new to the City, The Tipsy Vegan is located right beside the River Cam in the popular Quayside area of Cambridge, the menu features a variety of cuisines from around the world. Designed with sharing in mind, there is a large selection of small plates, sharing boards and sides alongside superb main dishes, Weekend brunch and Sunday roasts.
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Chi Chi, in The Grafton Centre, is the first bao restaurant in Cambridge and serves freshly prepared Asian flavoured dishes. Diners can enjoy bao-filled buns, banh mi rolls, chicken wings, noodle and rice bowls, salads, bubble waffles and even bubble tea!
Stuck for gift ideas this Christmas
Dining out this Christmas... | Lion Yard
Pho
Cambridge Brew House
Stephen and Juliette Wall opened Pho in June 2005 after they travelled to Vietnam and fell in love with the food. They made the decision to start a restaurant serving pho while sat on high stools, slurping pho bo, in Ho Chi Minh City. 15 years later, Pho is still a family-run business serving great value, healthy Vietnamese street food that is cooked fresh daily (no central kitchens!). This Christmas, Pho are offering some set menu options which are fantastic value for money, starting at £17.50 for 2 courses. Vegan set menus also available.
The Cambridge Brew House is the perfect pub in Cambridge to meet friends, enjoy fine beers, kick back and watch the game, whilst sampling a tempting selection of delicious fresh food.
Copper Kettle Established in the early 1900s, The Copper Kettle is embedded in the history of Cambridge – a landmark in its own right, a centre piece of college life situated directly overlooking the world-famous King’s College. From the days of the quintessential tearoom stretching over 2 floors in the early 20th century students, tutors and visitors alike have played their part in the transformation of The Copper Kettle into the modern-day vibrant mix of traditional café and Mediterranean delight.
Relax in the bar while Mark is hard at work perfecting their own range of ales from the on-site micro-brewery, or sample some local and international craft beers from the ever-changing range.
TAWA If you have never tried Tawa, then add it to your list! An Indian restaurant serving authentic, nutritious food which is mainly plant based and always delicious. Located in the CB1 area, a 2-minute walk from the train station it really should not be missed. Its owner, Vilas Patel, who has lived and worked in Cambridge for over 30 years, had a desire to share home cooked food with the City, offering something a bit different, exciting and, above all, lip-smackingly tasty.
For more ideas on where to eat & drink, visit LOVE-CAMBRIDGE.COM
and look for the Hidden Gems trails, there’s a wealth of information ready and waiting for you
SIGNORELLI’S The quality of food at Signorelli’s is only matched by the passion and dedication that Alessandro and his team put into the deli. From breakfast through to lunch and dinner, the food is exceptional. Imagine the small coffee shops on the streets of Naples, the hustle and bustle, the fresh smell of coffee and the delicious pizza - bellissimo! With sister restaurant La Piazza in The Grafton, you are most certainly spoilt for choice. Whilst you are treating yourself, you can have a browse of their gift selection for those Italian inspired Christmas presents, from Panettone to fine Italian wine.
Rosie For Autograph Wrap Gown
The £30, Love Cambridge Marks & SpencerGift Card can help
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E X P L O R E O V E R 2 5 0 B O U T I Q U E S A N D E AT E R I E S
@LOVECAMBS
@LOVECAMBRIDGE_
@LOVECAMBRIDGE_
Loving Christmas | NSPCC
Helping children find the light this Christmas d of Service
By Wendy Robinson, Childline Hea
For many children and families in Cambridge and across the country, Christmas can be the most magical and exciting time of the year. But for others, Christmas can also be a more difficult and challenging time. This Christmas, Childline is preparing to help thousands of children and young people, both day and night, as many struggle to cope with loneliness during the festive period. There are many reasons why children may feel lonely at Christmas - some may be struggling with their mental health, whilst others may be in homes that are not safe. Reasons why children and young people can feel lonely at Christmas can include: • Feeling misunderstood and ‘invisible’, while those closest to them struggle to understand their feelings. • Struggling to fit into new surroundings after moving house or changing school. • A first Christmas after losing someone close to them after a death or broken relationship. • Bullying or difficulties with friendships. • Experiencing abuse or neglect. • Not getting on with their family. • Having an illness or disability. As a result of their low mood, young people will often spend a lot of time in their bedrooms or online, which can exacerbate their loneliness. In the worst cases some may feel so desperate that they self-harm to cope with their negative feelings, or may even contemplate ending their own life.
• Try to stay calm if your child tells you something alarming, so that they feel ok to confide in you again. • If your child isn’t ready to talk straight away, try again in a few days’ time. • Listening is important and shows your child you value what they’re telling you. A child should never feel so isolated and helpless that they see no way out. We all have a part to play in helping a young person before they reach crisis point. It is vital that children and young people know they always have someone to talk to and they never have to suffer alone, which is why Childline is always here for them – this Christmas and beyond. The NSPCC is also asking families, communities and organisations to be there for children this year by taking part in the charity’s Walk For Children event. In addition, the Cambridge Guildhall will be supporting the NSPCC this Christmas by lighting up and turning its trademark green colour on 21st December. To find out more about Walk for Children, please visit: register.nspccevents.org.uk/ps/event/WalkforChildren2021 Children can call Childline free and in confidence at any time on 0800 1111, visit www.childline.org.uk
• If you’re worried your child might be experiencing loneliness and are unsure what to do, we have some advice to help support you both:
Any adult concerned about the welfare of a child or young person can call the NSPCC helpline for free 24/7 on 0808 800 5000.
• Start a conversation when no-one will interrupt, perhaps during a walk or car journey.
Just £4 pays for Childline to answer a call this Christmas from a child in need of support, to donate visit www.nspcc.org.uk.
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Loving Christmas | Purple Flag
g a l F e l p r u P e h Flying t th is Winte r evenings in The long wintry y tra special, so wh Cambridge are ex t of it in the City? not make a nigh
Purple Flag is an award for the safe management of towns and cities after dark (5pm – 5am). Managed by the ATCM, there are over 70 Purple Flag towns and cities in the UK and Ireland.
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festive fun
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the North Pole on Parkers’ Piece, to start your night with ice skating and mulled wine. Cambridge Arts Theatre plays host to Aladdin for this year’s panto, so what would you ask the genie for this Christmas? Town & Gown has a production of Miracle on 34th Street based on the 1947 radio hour broadcast – the battle of Kris Kringle vs the Supreme Court. The St Petersburg Classic Ballet will perform at the Corn Exchange, with the Nutcracker and Swan Lake. If you prefer to be in the driving seat for all the action, head to LockHouse Escape Games for brain-teasing puzzles and a mild sense of peril.
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Loving Christmas | Purple Flag
drinking & dancing
Hotels
Have you tried the newly reopened Cambridge Union Cellars, famous for hosting the Footlights back in the day? Or if you’re in the mood for music, head to De Luca Cucina & Bar for live piano, and La Raza has regular takeovers from bands and DJs. MASH is an independent nightclub, keeping Cambridge up after hours all week long. Revolution is promising showstopping Christmas spectacles, including their cocktail masterclasses. Or, if you’re in the mood for a Christmas party, Vinyl has private rooms and VIP tables, with party planners to do the hard work for you!
Clayton Hotel Cambridge is perfectly located near the train station and Botanic gardens. It offers Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve dining with complimentary prosecco. At the University Arms, guests staying on Christmas Eve will enjoy a truly festive experience – carol singers, sherry and cream tea in luxury surroundings. Varsity Hotel & Spa has special menus throughout December at their restaurant SIX, with yuletide songs in a festive setting. Graduate Hotel guests this winter can enjoy frosty views of the River Cam, whilst feeling cosy inside its Garden House restaurant with an open grill kitchen.
On Friday and Saturday nights 10pm – 4am, the dedicated Street Pastors keep an eye out for anyone in need. They offer directions, food and drink, and other practical support. And on each payday weekend and every weekend in December, the Taxi Marshals at the St Andrews Street Taxi Rank help everyone get home safely.
Cambridge Purple Flag is a partnership, and our vision for the year ahead is to provide training and support to venues as they exit a difficult period, keeping customers safe and allowing them to focus on enjoying a great night out. Cambridge BID and CAMBAC (project co-leaders) Supported by: Addenbrookes, Cambridge City and County Councils, Cambridgeshire Police and Fire services, CCTV, Cambs Cuisine, Hyline Security, La Raza, The Regal, Street Pastors, Ta Bouche, Trinity Hall College
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Loving Christmas | Travelling to Cambridge
Travelling to Cambridge Getting into and
around Cambrid
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ON PARK & RIDE Park in one of the 5 car parks
spread across the main radial routes into Cambridge and catch the bus into the City Centre. The Park & Ride return ticket is £3, and with this ticket up to three children travel for free. The Park & Ride Group Ticket is £8.50 and can only be purchased from the driver – it allows a group of up to 5 people to travel together. Parking is free for up to 18 hours, more information www.cambridgeparkandride.info
BY BUS Getting into the heart of the City Centre by bus
is easy – many of the routes within the City Centre operate on a 10-minute frequency and, to those places a bit further afield, 20- or 30-minute frequencies are common place. Full details of all bus services and other local routes are available on www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/info/20017/buses The Cambridgeshire Guided Busway provides reliable, fast and frequent connections between Cambridge, St Ives, Huntingdon and beyond. More information www.thebusway.info
BY TRAIN Cambridge Railway Station is about
15-minute walk or a 5 minute cycle ride from the City Centre. In addition, there are numerous local buses and taxis available to provide convenient links between the Railway Station and the City Centre.
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t travel:
BY CAR Cambridge has five centrally located multi-storey car parks and three surface car parks that provide parking. The car parks are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and operate on a pay on foot basis. For more information please visit www.cambridge.gov.uk/parking. Please note that the Park Street Car Park is due to close in January for a complete refurbishment.
BY BIKE If you fancy taking to two wheels, you certainly won’t be alone in Cambridge. Details of cycle park locations and the best routes around the city are available at www.cambridge.gov.uk/cycling-and-walking
BY FOOT Cambridge is a fantastic City to explore on foot because it is relatively small & compact. Find one of our City Ambassadors, grab a map and off you go!
Please be sure to check the bus and Park & Ride timetables online for any seasonal variations.
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Cambridge Independent
on Dame Trott’s Panto Palaver 2020
Ely Standard
on Dame Trott’s Panto Palaver 2020
STA RR IN G CA M BR ID G E’ S #1 DA M E
M AT T CROSBY
A traditional family pantomime
THU 2 DEC 2021 – SUN 9 JAN 2022 Book your tickets now: 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com