r e t s a E ion t a r b e l e C GARDEN
StJJOHNS OHNS
GARDEN CENTRE BARNSTAPLE BARNSTA T PLE TA & STORE RESTA RESTAURANT T URANT TA
Easter Parade This year’s guide to enjoying the Easter period
www.northdevonjournal.co.uk
Welcome & Contents
Easter Parade For me, Easter has always been a family occasion, gorging on chocolate and going out for walks in a bid to ease the guilt of eating sweets for breakfast. Now that we’re older, we’ll probably do the exact same thing. North Devon is now ripe with signs of a new season, daffodils have popped up, snowdrops have blossomed and the lambs are prancing around the fields; spring is well and truly on its way. Fortunately, we live in an area rich with culture, activities and delicious food, which combined create a wondrous feast of Easter joy and treats. If you’re seeking an adventurous Easter, browse through the range of activities on offer including ‘Eggsplorer’ trails, den building and abseiling in our Days Out section, starting on page 4. If you’re looking to spruce up your garden or home for the spring or add a few Easter themed accessories, take a look at the Home and Garden section starting on page 14.
GARDEN
Editor
Dawn Stephens-Borg
Advertising Manager: Project Coordinator: Design:
Dale Sawyer Fiona Clarke Creative Hub
At the Heart of Easter Welcome & Contents Days Out Food & Drink Home & Garden
St. John’s Garden Centre
E S O R ER ushes FLOW B & eeds
FRU& ITshes Plants S Bu Trees
Happy Easter everyone!
Contents 2 3 4 - 11 12-13 14 - 16
r e t s a E bration e l e C BIR&D d Seed Fee
SOIL s Compost
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Plants
Rejuvenate your garden for the spring with beautiful plants, flowers and furniture from St. John’s Garden Centre in Barnstaple. Spring has finally arrived, and it’s the ideal time to think about your summer flowers and plants. St. John’s Garden Centre is fully prepared with a vast range of summer bulbs available; including Asiatic Patio Lilies, Crocosmia and Dutch Mixed Iris from the seasonal collection. Between browsing the stunning selection of plants and flowers and when you’ve chosen your bulbs and seeds for the summer, take a break in the Conservatory Café. Offering everything from a refreshing drink, a light snack or a main meal including a delicious Sunday carvery, the Conservatory Café offers a light and airy space to relax for the afternoon. If you’d rather enjoy some fresh spring air or summer sunshine, sit out on the delightful patio during your visit. Or, if you’d prefer to eat inside, enjoy the sub-tropical plants, flowers and trees in the Jungleland. Try the fun Junglequiz as you roam through the sub-tropical plants among the wildlife. There is even a Jungleland video for a sneak peek of the tour.
St. John’s has provided quality service to local and regional customers for over 50 years. The reliable gardening business is run by three Oliver Brothers, Nick, Simon and Tom. David and Pasty Oliver began the nursery as a smallholding, planting, harvesting and selling flowers and vegetables from the site at the bottom of St. John’s Lane. With the experience, knowledge and beautiful range of garden plants, furniture, flowers, seeds, barbecues, clothes, home wares, gifts and the all-important seasonal items, visit St. John’s for all things gardening this spring.
FE mily A C Y R TO x with the fa A V R E S N la
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ST.JOHN’S LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU OVER THE EASTER BANK HOLIDAY PERIOD. WE ARE CLOSED EASTER SUNDAY.
ST. JOHN’S LANE BARNSTAPLE EX32 9DD 01271 343884 MON-SAT 9am-5.30pm | SUN 10.30am-4.30pm www.stjohnsgardencentre.co.uk
StJOHNS GARDEN CENTRE BARNSTAPLE
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At the Heart of Easter
North Devon Remote Control Models offers new stock this season North Devon Remote Control Models is a small shop selling remote control models ranging from small toy types to the high end enthusiast racer models, including electric, nitro and petrol models and fuels. The shop also carries a large selection of model builders’ materials for boats and
planes. North Devon Remote Control Models is constantly upgrading stock, supplying all spare parts for all models that they sell. The shop offers a good service and backup as this is a new venture, at present the shop has a promotion running of 10% off on all models over £100.
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Creative opportunities for Easter at Blue Gallery The Blue Gallery in Barnstaple is a treasure trove of artistic materials. Delve into the creative world with an extensive range of acrylics, watercolours, oils, pencils, paper, brushes, easels and much more. Now 68 years old, the Blue Gallery has grown into one of the largest art, craft and needlework suppliers in the South West. The shop stocks brands such as Daler Rowney, Winsor & Newton, Pro Arte, DMC, Dylon, Coats, Straedler and many more, on the same premises in Joy Street. Pop into the Blue Gallery for a wonderful range of artistic materials and to kick start your creativity for Easter.
Unique accessories and gifts in Bazaar Fresh spring looks at Samuel Daw & Co An established shop specialising in both ladies clothing and menswear, Daw & Co, is bringing fresh looks for the spring this Easter. With the company now stocking new young and vibrant menswear by Maddox Street, Daw & Co is the place to go for fine clothing for the season. Bright colours will be showcased throughout
the ladies range, and a brand new window display will introduce the fabulous new clothing by Maddox Street. Daw & Co are now stocking a new range of gentlemen’s shoes from Exeter based company Chatham Shoes. To refresh your look for the season be sure to pop into Daw & Co in Barnstaple.
Bazaar is a treasure trove in Barnstaple showcasing a vast array of unique gifts and home accessories. Specialising in beautiful furniture, photo frames, candles, toys, novelties, jewellery and gorgeous gifts, Bazaar definitely has something for everyone. For a unique accessory or an Easter treat, pop into Bazaar in Barnstaple to find your perfect gift with the help of the friendly team, Phil, Heather, Amber and Rosie.
Something to smile about With beautiful flowers blooming, birds singing and the sun shining, spring really gives you something to smile about. Changing Faces Denture Clinic can rejuvenate your smile, with the latest advances in denture techniques, craftsmanship and care. Even the loss of a single tooth can damage other teeth and change your face shape. Changing Faces can make you look and feel younger and more confident with natural looking dentures and partial dentures specifically made for each patient. Andrew Taylor is the leading clinical dental technician at the Changing Faces Denture Clinic in Newport Road, Barnstaple. His extensive experience enables him to produce life-like dentures that are very difficult to distinguish from real teeth. Restore your confidence, appearance and your smile by booking a consultation on: 01271 470028.
Denture wearers!
Afraid to smile? Experience expertly fitted dentures directly from a Clinical Dental Technician. • • • •
Free mini consultations Precision partial dentures Life like complete dentures Implant assisted dentures
Discreet and professional service
Call: 01271 470 028 www.changingfacesdentures.co.uk Changing Faces® Denture Clinic, North Devon, Endsleigh Dental Practice, Newport Road, Barnstaple, Devon EX32 9BG Andrew Taylor, Clinical Dental Technician Dip CDT RCS (Eng), GDC No: 133974
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Days Out
2014
Campervan interiors at New residents at Exmoor Zoo this Easter at Burts Bus Emporium Ever thought about cruising around the coast in a campervan, or simply redecorating your beloved VW? Burts Bus Emporium offers the opportunity to furnish your campervan in style. After falling in love with their first campervan named Bert, Sarah and Dean decided to invest in a curtain making business to create what is now Burts Bus Emporium. Offering a range of fabrics and materials to decorate your campervan and tailor the interior to your needs, this is truly the place to go in North Devon. The shop also stocks a large range
of campervan inspired gifts and accessories.
Exmoor Zoo is home to some of the most majestic and fascinating animals from all over the world. This Easter, visit some of the newest residents at the zoo. The most recent arrivals the Leopard Cats, will be on display this year; the unrelated duo have travelled from Avalon zoo in the Philippines. Two Eastern black and white colobus monkeys set up their home at Exmoor zoo last summer. Having travelled from a zoo in Belgium they are already on display. The award-winning zoo promises a special day out for the family this Easter. Activities include the free Easter egg trail, the zoo
stamper trail, keeper for the day, walk on the wild side and various animal experiences which are a sure way to a fun-filled wild Easter day out. Of course don’t forget the daily talks, handling and contact sessions which run every half an hour and are all free.
Hartland Abbey is hosting its first ever Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday April 20 and Monday April 21; all around the beautiful gardens and woodland walks. Lots of fun clues lead to a delicious chocolate egg. As well as Easter Egg Hunts are traditional games such as Pinning the Tail on the Donkey (or Easter Bunny). Spring flowers in
the gardens and bluebells stretching from the Walled Gardens to the sea will be in full bloom. Easter at Hartland Abbey promises a great day out for the family with a delicious barbecue (weather permitting) and special Easter treats in the Old Kitchen Tea Rooms. Dogs welcome, and the house will be open too. Gates open 11.00am.
A world of bees at Quince Bluebell walks and egg Honey Farm hunts at Hartland Abbey
There’s a buzz about the place at Quince Honey Farm this Easter, with everything from bee beard shows to Easter egg hunts. The Easter Bunny will be visiting the honey farm, where you can take part in the Easter egg hunt on April 12 and 13. The wonderful indoor play hive will be open and adorable bunnies and chicks will be at the farm for you to meet.
Horse riding on the beach or in the countryside Shelley’s Riding School is a small and friendly yard on the edge of Braunton, offering a variety of riding opportunities. Take a ride on the beach or beautiful long country tracks for those longer canters and woodland hacking. Especially for Easter, Shelley’s Riding School is now offering a one hour free horse ride when accompanied with a rider paying full price.
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Days Out
Easter at Arlington Court Arlington Court has planned a host of fantastic Easter activities for all 17 days of the school break, from April 5-21. The Easter fun trail is based entirely around animal jokes. Giggling your way through the trail, you will need to follow the clues and find jokes to guess which is the right answer. You will also need to make up your own joke to claim your prize. The fun trail will take place from April 5-17 at £1.50 per trail. What would Easter be without the adorable lambs prancing around the fields? The Arlington rangers will be holding spring lamb talks every day at 3pm for you to meet Arlington Court’s new born lambs and find out more about why a flock of Jacob sheep live there. The talks will take place outside and are free with normal admission from April 7-21. Keen and imaginative crafters should bring along their creative skills on April 7, 14 and 21. Drop-in children’s craft sessions will be held from 12-4pm in the Education Room. On April 7 there will be Easter bunting making and on April 14, children will have the chance to make Easter nests and on Bank Holiday Monday, discover how to make Easter bonnets using just a simple paper plate. Crafts cost £1 per person. ‘Ranger skills days’ will be hosted by Arlington Court’s ranger team, to show the diversity of their work. The ranger skills days will take place on Wednesdays and Fridays in the Easter holidays. These will be drop-in sessions from 11am-3pm and cost up to £1 per person.
Activities include pond dipping, pizza making, dry stone walling and den building. Exmoor artist Amanda Graham will be sharing her wisdom of wet felting during family felting sessions on April 8 and 15. Two sessions will run during the days; 11am-12.30pm and 2-3.30pm. The felting session costs £2.50 per person and must be booked in advance as numbers are limited. To finish off the fun fortnight, Arlington Court’s popular Cadbury sponsored Easter egg trail, the ‘eggsplorer’, will include clues about the animals the last owner of Arlington, Rosalie Chichester, encountered during her 1920 roundthe-world tour and will end with a delicious chocolate prize. The Easter bunny will also be making an appearance on Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.
Easter fun at Arlington Court Easter fun trail 5-17 April, 10.30am-5pm £1.50 per trail Spring lamb talks 7-21 April, 3-3.30pm Monday crafts 7, 14 & 21 April, 12-4pm £1 per craft Ranger skills days 9, 11, 16 & 18 April, 11am-3pm £1 donation Cadbury Easter egg trail 18-21 April, 10.30am-5pm £2.50 per trail Meet the Easter Bunny! 18, 20 & 21 April, 10.30am-5pm Normal admission charges apply for all activities. Call 01271 850296 for more details.
nationaltrust.org.uk/arlington-court Arlington Court, Arlington, Near Barnstaple, EX31 4LP
2014
Easter treats, gift gallery and free chocolate eggs at Dartington Crystal Wonderful Easter fun for all the family is promised at Dartington Crystal in Torringon this year. A fantastic children’s activity and entertainment day will take place on Bank Holiday Monday April 21, with an array of seasonal activities on offer for the younger members of the family. There will be a Punch & Judy show, which is sure to be full of laughs for both adults and children, alongside a balloon workshop, easter bonnet workshop, face painting, themed glass painting, ‘guess the weight of the crystal egg’ with a prize for the winner and free chocolate eggs. All weekend there will be afternoon teas being served and tasty Easter foodie treats in the Pavilion Café. A major attraction for visitors is guaranteed to be Dartington’s Mega Sale with a host of bargains on offer. This will be in full swing over the Bank Holiday weekend and runs until April 27 so don’t miss out. New to Dartington’s shopping experience is the Dartington Gift Gallery, where you can find a range of brands such as: Ian Snow (home-
wares), soft furnishings and gifts, Orange Tree (toys for young children), House of Marbles, The Candy Company, Elgate (VW camper van gifts) and fantastic bags such as Rocket Dog, Storm and Red or Dead as well as Sadler leather purses. In our home-wares shop you will now also find Tala Kitchenware and coming soon is Heathcote & Ivory, quintessential English toiletries and home fragrance.
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Days Out
2014
New season, new tents at Easter bunny hunt and spectacular outdoor theatre Devon Outdoor at Castle Hill
Visit the extensive grounds at Castle Hill for a fun-filled Easter extravaganza. On Monday April 21, the annual Easter Bunny Hunt will take place around the beautiful gardens. Bring the whole family along and follow the clues to win a delicious chocolate prize. An outdoor theatre production of Roald Dahl’s much-loved children’s classic, George’s Marvellous Medicine will take place on Saturday May 24. Set in the lovely gardens,
bring friends, family and a picnic to enjoy this fabulous production. Castle Hill and the exquisite gardens are steeped in history and have been home to the Fortescue family for centuries. It is currently cherished by the Earl and Countess of Arran and is a wonderful must-see North Devon attraction. Enjoy your Easter festivities at Castle Hill in beautiful surroundings.
With the summer season nearly upon us Devon Outdoor and Camping Supplies’ tent and awning display is now open. This year Devon Outdoor has introduced the French brand of Cabanon tents. Cabanon is trying to re-establish itself in the UK camping scene with its traditional style of cotton canvas tents. Devon Outdoor is now showcasing a couple of Cabanon’s best-selling tents with the option of ordering from the rest of the range. This season also sees a more extensive range of inflatable tents which allow the modern day camper to experience a hassle free start to their camping trip. With the rising popularity of the campervan enabling people to grab those quick
getaways, Devon Outdoor has also extended its range of drive away awnings whether it be the traditional poled version or the latest in inflatable technology from Kampa, Outwell or Vango. Caravanners have not been left out either with a wider range of caravan awnings on display. All in all they have a great display to browse around, as well as the well-stocked accessories shop stocking most things that allow today’s outdoor enthusiast to get outside this summer. Visit Devon Outdoor at Trelawney Garden Centre, Strand Lane, Ashford, Barnstaple EX31 4BW
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Days Out
2014
30,000 chocolate eggs, New dinosaurs roam new born lambs and a in Combe Martin visit from the Easter Bunny There will be a chocolate feast at the Big Sheep in Bideford this year, with Easter eggs hidden throughout the grounds. The Big Sheep will be open to visitors for its annual Easter Eggstravaganza Festival from Saturday April 5 to Monday April 21. With over a whopping 30,000 chocolate eggs to find, there will be something for all the family this Easter. And as an extra special treat, every visitor will be entered into a free prize draw to win a giant Easter egg which was handmade by award winning chocolatier, Carlo Melchior. A range of attractions including fluffy bunnies, beautiful bulbs of colour and adorable new born lambs are among the wonderful things to see at the Big Sheep this Easter. Visitors can also experience spring first hand, with many of the new born lambs arriving, visitors can witness the magical moment of seeing a new born lamb take its first steps and help bottle feeding the orphan lambs. Baby chicks, roosters, pygmy goats and cute piglets will also be joining in the fun at the Big Sheep. Rick Turner, director of the Flock said: “Easter is one of my favourite times at the Big Sheep; it’s the arrival of spring, the start of a new
season when all our friendly staff are fresh and enthusiastic. “I love to hear the squeals of delight and the look of sheer pleasure on the faces of the children when they discover a chocolate egg!” Alongside the fantastic Easter events at the Big Sheep, a giant Easter bunny will be making an appearance on Good Friday April 18 and Bank Holiday Monday April 21 to enjoy a special holiday breakfast before taking children on a fantastic Easter egg hunt around the attraction. Tickets to the breakfast also include admission to the Big Sheep for a full day of fun and cost from £17 each for adults and children over 3ft and from £7 each for children under 3ft tall.
A pack of dinosaurs have travelled to North Devon this year to wander the grounds at the Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park. The fierce toothy creatures will be making their debut this Easter, hunting and growling among the trees. Three T-Rex, a spinosaurus, a family of triceratops and a raptor will be greeting visitors at the park throughout Easter, alongside the other residents throughout the valley. Come and see the new residents this Easter and join in the annual Dino Egg Hunt during the holidays, you might just win a treat. If you are wild about wildlife, Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is home to a variety of animals. With African lions, wolves, gibbons, monkeys, sea lions, penguins and meekats all ready to meet you. Combe Martin is one of only two collections where you can see rare White Hudson Bay wolves on public display. Learn more about
these beautiful animals in the daily wolf talk. The fabulous sea lion show offers the chance to meet and greet the beautiful animals, and you can have an encounter with a meerkat or take some time to feed a wallaby in their walk through enclosure. If you want to, you can also pre-book an extra wild experience for your visit, you can arrange to feed a lion, swim with a sea lion or shadow a keeper for the day. Remember, pay your entry once and return all year for half price, simply pick up your voucher from the park’s information desk.
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Days Out
Family activity days at the Calvert Trust Exmoor Why not join the fun at Calvert Trust Exmoor for their family activity day this Easter? With a range of activities including archery, abseiling, carriage rides and a giant swing, the day promises to be action packed and full of adventure. On Friday April 21, the activity day will be open to everyone with or without a disability for just £2 per activity, or six activities for £10. Refreshments and snacks will be available on site, or bring a lunch and enjoy a picnic on the beautiful Wistlandpound Reservoir. Rob Lott, head of communications at Calvert Trust Exmoor said: “It’s very exciting to be opening up our great activities to our local community again this year. “We ran two open days in 2013 and they proved to be really popular; so much so we are planning three open days this year. “Please come along to enjoy a fun day
out with us and get a taste of ‘The Calvert Experience’.” Drop in anytime from 9.30am to 2pm to make the most of the fantastic activities on offer. Activities will start at 10am and will be running until 3pm. If you would like to pre-book your activities, email exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk
Karaoke, game hubs and bowling at Let’s Go Visit Let’s Go this Easter for a whole host of games, karaoke and bowling at the entertainment centre. Alongside the already popular bowling, adventurous laser tag and the karaoke party rooms with Xbox and Wii, Let’s Go is opening a new sandwich bar this season. Selling freshly made sandwiches and
delicious baguettes, the new sandwich bar will be open for Easter alongside pool arcades and a private snooker club. Let’s Go promises fun for all the family, with classic ten pin bowling and a range of games and activities for everyone.
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Paintball, laser tag and airsoft in the woods
For an active Easter break, try one of Survival Paintball’s many adventurous games including paintball, laser tag and airsoft. Providing everything you need including high quality weapons, ammunition, full face safety goggles and overalls, be prepared for these exciting activities. With eight woodland areas including the Aztec Temple and the Village, the vast adventure zones such as a church, bridges, trenches and towers offer the ultimate space to explore in a fantastic outdoor experience for Easter.
The Southwest’s PREMIERE Paintball & Laser games site
SPECIAL EASTER DEALS! All major credit cards accepted
www.survivalpaintball.com 01271 858279 South Down Woods, Barnstaple, North Devon EX31 3LZ
Get creative for Easter with Brightfire Pottery Spend a relaxing afternoon decorating pots and sculpture, using the exciting glazes at Brightfire Pottery. Watch as the glazes turn to glass as the kiln reaches 1000 degrees. Your masterpieces will be ready to take home with you straight away. It’s great fun and easy to do, instant fabulous results every time, whatever your age or ability. David and Jenny Selby have been running their RAKU courses for 15 years and you are ensured a warm welcome and an enjoyable
interesting experience. All ceramic items are hand made here at Roundhouse Farm by David and Jenny using clay from the local quarry at Peters Marland in Devon. Their farmhouse is situated between Chulmleigh and Witheridge in a beautiful and peaceful location. Bring a picnic if you wish and meet the friendly ponies, guinea pigs and bunnies. www.brightfirepottery.com
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Days Out
Spring has arrived at Marwood Hill Gardens For a charming walk through beautiful gardens and a delicious cream tea or cake, visit Marwood Hill Gardens this Easter. Marwood Hill Gardens was created by Dr Jimmy Smart in the late Fifties and includes a delightful 20 acre private garden with three lakes, tucked away in North Devon just four miles outside Barnstaple.
Join the seasonal festivities with the Easter Garden Trail on Sunday April 20 and Monday 21. With a beautiful array of plants, shrubs and trees and an excellent tea room serving tasty treats for visitors, the gardens are a tempting and glorious place to spend time this Easter.
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New shop and surf simulator for surf school The North Devon Surf School has expanded, with a brand new prime location shop in Westward Ho! and an exciting new surf simulator. Set in the new Latitude 51 development, the new shop will be stocking surfboards, body boards, and wetsuits from Xcel, C-Skin’s and Alder. Plus an excellent range of surf accessories and skateboards from top brands Landyachtz, Lush, Santa Cruz, Kryptonics and many more. The new surf simulator will also be permanently based at the new shop, for
surfing fanatics and amateurs to try their hand at practicing their skills out of the water. Situated in such a magnificent area, prime for surfing opportunities, the North Devon Surf School has taught people to surf from every walk of life, ability and all fitness levels for over 20 years. So why not try something new this Easter and have some fun at the surf school. Using a unique coaching technique, the school has taught thousands of people to stand up and ride a wave after just a couple of lessons. So make 2014 your year for learning to surf.
We’ve Expanded! We’ve opened our second Westward Ho! Surf School in the new Latitude 51 building.
Now stocking Longboard Skateboards Lesson’s
Surf Shop
Surf Hire
Resident Surf Simulator
NOW OPEN
Surfing Lessons Paddleboard Lessons Kitesurfing Lessons Full hire facilities
01237 474663
www.northdevonsurfschool.co.uk info@northdevonsurfschool.co.uk
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Days Out
2014
The Milky Way is bigger and better than ever North Devon’s largest all-weather adventure park, The Milky Way near Bideford, has marked its 30th year by spending over half a million pounds on adding even more fun things to do for the whole family. New additions include a tailor-made play centre for babies and children under the age of 7, a stylish café-restaurant and opening in April, two gigantic outdoor bouncing pillows for all ages; plus an earlier opening time at 10am. This year, the adventure park will also be holding special events and donating £1 to North Devon Hospice for every person who attends, starting with a visit from Peppa Pig on April 20, then Fireman Sam on May 25 when the popular characters will be making appearances at intervals throughout the day. The Milky Way has long been one of the region’s top attractions and was voted ‘North Devon’s top day out with the kids’ in 2012 and 2013. Thousands visit every year for its 110,000 square feet of undercover fun, alongside acres of outdoor space just ten minutes outside Bideford. Among its most popular attractions are the roller coasters, dodgems, mini-train, birds of prey and a huge indoor soft-play area for all ages. The new additions are all included in the main Milky Way entry price. The all-weather Little Stars play centre offers perfect dedicated facilities for under
7’s in the area, and includes a multi-level soft play area, sensory room for babies, pretend pizzeria and baby and toddler classes. Outside, the Jumping Jupiter bouncing pillows, one for smaller children (under 5’s and accompanying adults) and another pillow, believed to be the biggest in the UK, for older children and adults. What’s more, there is no annoying sand to get everywhere, as the pillows are surrounded by an innovative soft padded surface. The Milky Way has also added the brandnew Star Light café-restaurant, a light and airy room with roller coaster views, serving popular family food and healthy options. Opening for the Easter holidays, the menu now includes more healthy choices and an option for toddler sized portions, as well as baristastandard coffee.
Massive NEW attractions for 2014! GREAT OFFER FOR LOCALS One HALF PRICE adult with every full paying child Until 21st April 2014 (Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or discount). Your group just needs to present this voucher on arrival, along with proof of
your local address, such as a driving license or recent utility bill.
Sunday 20th April
Play for Babies to Six Years Star L
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Resta
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Come and see Peppa Pig! Meet, Greet & Storytelling sessions*
NEW © ABD Ltd/Ent. One UK Ltd 2003.
at intervals throughout the day. *led by a narrator
YOUR BEST VALUE DAY OUT
fun for adults and kids! u
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UK’s Lar
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Sunday 25th May Come and see Fireman Sam! Meet & Greet & Storytelling sessions* at intervals throughout the day *led by a narrator Plus - Meet local fire fighters © 2014 Prism Art & Design Limited. and see a real fire engine! © Hit Entertainment Limited.
All rides, shows and play areas included in your ticket
Tel: 01237 431255 info@themilkyway.co.uk
www.themilkyway.co.uk
Open daily April to Nov 2nd from 10am Only 10 miles from Bideford on the A39, Near Clovelly, Devon EX39 5RY
FREE
www.facebook.com/themilkywayadventurepark
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Days Out
Little Stars play centre opens near Bideford A new addition to The Milky Way Adventure Park near Bideford, Little Stars play centre promises to lead the way in soft, imaginative and educational play for babies, toddlers and young children. The play centre has been designed with parents in mind. There’s a multi-level, spacethemed soft-play area, a sensory room for babies with tactile objects and exciting visual effects, a room full of books games and educational toys, a dressing up area for budding police officers, fairies or dragons, a play pizzeria complete with kitchen, tables and food, a fantastic toys play zone and a pretend carwash with ride-on cars. Little Stars play centre is undoubtedly designed to keep any small child happy for hours. Adults have been very much thought of too. Housed in a light, airy room with lakeside views, children playing in the main play frame are in sight at all times, and a well-planned layout means parents can relax and enjoy their barista-made coffee in a comfortable tub chair with peace of mind. From April 22, Little Stars will also be introducing fun, weekly developmental classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers aged 0-4 years. The award-winning Baby Sensory, Toddler Sense and Hartbeeps classes will be run by a qualified teacher and will take place in a lovely new purpose-designed room within Little Stars. The price of ten classes starts from £60 and includes unlimited free entry to
2014
The Milky Way and Little Stars for three months for both parents and children. Though entry to Little Stars is included in the main Milky Way entry fee, Little Stars is also open as a standalone attraction too. Those who only want to visit the under 7’s play centre can pay a separate, lower entrance fee of £5 per child (1-6 years) and £2 per adult, though many local families will want to buy a season ticket giving year-round entry to The Milky Way and Little Stars for just £35 for adults and children aged 5 years and over and £30 for children 2-4 years.
Brand New Attraction for babies to six years
Entry to Little Stars is included in the standard Milky Way admission price. If you would just like to visit Little Stars the following charges apply Children 1-6 years £5, Adults £2, Babies under 12 months FREE All prices & times subject to change / time of year - visit www.littlestarsplay.co.uk
At busy times we may operate a 2 hour play session.
Designed with parents in mind
Role Play Pizzeria WOW Toys
Award Winning developmental classes for 0 to 4 years…
There’s so much more on offer for pre-schoolers at...
Dressing Up
Free class taster sessions available - see website for details
Tel: 01237 432006 info@littlestarsplay.co.uk
www.littlestarsplay.co.uk
Entry to The Milky Way includes a small children’s rollercoaster, train ride, children’s shows and much more, in addition to Little Stars! visit www.themilkyway.co.uk for more details
Open daily from 10am Only 10 miles from Bideford on the A39, Near Clovelly, Devon EX39 5RY www.facebook.com/littlestarsplay
FREE
Food & Drink
Award-winning fish and chips at Graylings
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Easter egg hunt and live entertainment at The Green Dragon Inn At The Green Dragon Inn you will receive a warm welcome from a traditional Devonshire pub with a bar and restaurant menu offering a range of meals, including the famous ‘Dragon Burger’. Tuck in to a Sunday Roast carvery, offering a choice of three meats, real gravies, homemade Yorkshire puddings, as well as fresh seasonal vegetables and a selection of desserts including homemade Malteser cheesecake. With a lovely beer garden for the summer, as well as a large screen TV and pool table there is plenty to occupy all ages of the family. Dogs are also welcome in the bar area. On Easter Sunday take part in the free Easter Egg Hunt for the children in the beer garden, as well as Easter live music entertainment from The Buzz on April 18. So head to The Green Dragon for good food, entertainment and fun this Easter.
Graylings is a family business that prides itself on its award-winning fish and chips. Graylings cooks to order, frying each piece of fish to mouth-watering perfection, then serving with a generous portion of golden crispy chips. Graylings has two shops, one in North Tawton and one in Fremington, both have a restaurant area maintained to the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness. The dedicated staff have been hand-picked for their friendliness and efficiency. The Fremington shop has won the award for North Devon’s fish and chip shop of the year for three years running, and with their valued customers support, the team is hoping to win again this year. With their customers in mind, Graylings has decided to extend its opening hours in Fremington. The shop will now be open from 11am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and from 12pm to 8pm Sundays. There is also a special offer available on Sundays, until May 25th including buy one get one half price on cod and chips, to promote the new hours.
Bank Holiday BBQ at Rolle Quay Inn Indulge in a delicious food feast at the Rolle Quay Inn this Easter for the landlord’s barbecue and race day. On Monday April 21, the pub will be hosting a barbecue and horse racing day event in Barnstaple. Throughout the spring, enjoy excellent food, a variety of beers, fine wines and ales and a welcoming atmosphere at the Rolle Quay Inn. Overlooking the River Yeo, this friendly pub has plenty to offer this Easter, so why not pop down to the pub and join in the festivities.
Graylings will be closed Easter Sunday.
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Food & Drink
Delicious Easter treats at Sands on the Beach
Divine three-course Easter lunch at Kentisbury Grange Make this Easter extra special with a beautiful three-course lunch at Kentisbury Grange. At The Coach House on Easter Sunday, indulge in a delicious lunch for £25 for an adult or £15 for children. Available from 12pm to 4pm, the afternoon will also see an exciting Easter egg hunt take
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place in the grounds at 3pm. If you would like to make the weekend even more special, why not take advantage of Kentisbury Grange’s special Easter rate; including two nights with dinner, bed and breakfast from £360 per couple.
Kentisbury Grange Easter Sunday Menu STARTERS Sands on the Beach is the sister café to the main Saunton Sands Hotel, offering an unrivalled location and a delicious menu. The café is open seven days a week throughout the Easter holiday, and provides a range of food including a daytime and evening menu with open sandwiches, homemade burgers, steaks, spinach and ricotta risotto, moules mariniere and moules Campania. Showcasing fine local produce including freshly caught fish served with chips, mushy peas and tartar sauce, Sands on the Beach is the epitome of the glorious Devon lifestyle. Treat yourself to a relaxing breakfast for the Easter holidays with the Sands full English, or
keep it local with a Surfer’s hash. Try the Sands homemade beef burger for a filling daytime meal, overlooking the beautiful Saunton Sands beach. If you’re visiting in the evening, a glorious array of pasta, risotto and salads are available including spinach and ricotta and spaghetti Bolognese. For a festive Easter treat, try an afternoon tea with a selection of freshly baked cakes and pastries, or a classic Sands cream tea. Sands on the Beach is undoubtedly the place to be for a beautiful daytime or evening meal, or even just a relaxing drink over the Easter break.
Open over Easter: 9am-11pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays after Easter
Sea views Local produce Chilled wine Chilled out Open 9am-11pm (food served 9am-9.30pm) Saunton Beach, North Devon Tel: 01271 891288
SandsOnTheBeach
Celeraic Soup – Curry oil, croutons Grilled Local Sardiners – Bacon toast, herb emulsion Coach House Smoked Duck Ham – Duck egg, chip, brown sauce jus
MAIN COURSE
Sea Bream – Warm tartar sauce, brown shrimps, chips Roast Lamb Rump – Lamb shoulder, fondant potato, flageolet bean puree, tomato chutney Beetroot Spelt Risotto – Crispy brie
SWEETS
Baked Custard – Poached rhubarb, oat biscuits, ginger sorbet Apple and Plum Crumble – Clotted cream ice cream Bitter Chocolate Tart – Raisin puree, rum and raisin ice cream
Home & Garden
Finance made easy with Lyn Financial Lyn Financial Services is one of the leading independent financial adviser firms in North Devon, making finance easy for everyone. Lyn Financial comments on mortgage rates for home buyers. “Borrowers are paying a premium to fix their rate despite signs an interest rate rise could be some way off. More than 95% of home buyers are choosing to fix their mortgage rate despite the rising cost of fixed deals and the increased chance that a rate rise could be delayed. The Mortgage Advice Bureau’s (MAB) National Mortgage Index shows more than 19 in 20 buyers applied for a fixed-rate mortgage in February. The cost of fixed rate deals is rising as lenders prepare for the Bank of England to increase Bank Rate from its record low of 0.5%. Two, three and five-year fixed deals rose by between 0.06 and 0.08 percentage points in the month to February. However, news recently that inflation fell to 1.7% in February, its lowest level since October 2009, will ease pressure on the Bank of England to raise interest rates. It is expected that rates will go up at some point in 2015, but if inflation remains low it could be towards the middle or end of the year.
Tracker mortgages, which move in line with the Bank Rate, fell by 0.6 percentage points to 2.82% in February – the lowest recorded average in over six years. Despite the cheap rates borrowers are increasingly reluctant to take out a tracker deal given the uncertainty around interest rates. The housing market is continuing to see an increase in activity, according to the MAB index. Mortgage applications for home purchases rose 33% between January and February and 62% compared to February 2013. Remortgage applications grew 16% in the month to February and 49% year-on-year. Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published recently, show UK house prices increased by 6.8% in the year to January. All regions saw prices rise by 7.1% in England, 6.9% in Wales, 1.4% in Scotland and 2.7% in Northern Ireland.” For a no obligation, free mortgage review, please contact Lyn Financial Services on: 01271 321 444.
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Refresh your home for spring with F.R. Way Long-established furnisher F.R. Way is a family business, delivering high quality products that have given the shop its superb reputation. Including quality furnishings featuring dining, bedroom and lounge furniture, chairs, wall units, bureaux, pocketed and open spring beds, carpets, rugs and wood furniture, you are guaranteed to find a wonderful addition for your home. F.R. Way stocks an outstanding range of wardrobes by German manufacturers Rauch. The vast selection of wardrobes displayed in the shop boasts ample space for your home. What better time to invest in a brand new wardrobe than in the spring for a fresh start? The innovative design of these products allow for maximum storage in your home, with exceptional style. While you’re browsing the fantastic range of wardrobes, why not take a look at the top of the range Hypnos beds currently on offer? To refresh and rejuvenate your home for the spring season, visit F.R. Way and chat to their friendly and helpful staff, who offer excellent advice as a result of their product knowledge and many years of experience.
Adorable Easter gifts at Daisy Park If you’re looking for beautiful home accessories for the spring including shabby chic gifts, textiles and pottery, look no further. Daisy Park has a vast selection of adorable accessories for your home, with Emma Bridgewater’s stunning collection showcasing perky polka dot prints and classic countryside character. Spring brings with it the arrival of new born lambs and farm animals roam the countryside in the sunshine. So bring the essence of spring into your home with some fabulous floral patterns in the Cath Kidston range, or indulge in some of Emma Bridgewater’s beautiful animal painted kitchen accessories. To browse the outstanding range of home ware on offer, visit www.daisypark.co.uk or visit their shop in South Molton.
Home & Garden
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Spring and summer with Trelawney Garden Centre Browse the fantastic range of plants, gardening and home products at Trelawney this Easter. From shabby chic to ethnic and Mediterranean, Trelawney has sourced products guaranteed to suit everyone. A brand new range of women’s spring clothing and beautiful ceramics and glassware will be available, and the gift department is looking better than ever. An extensive selection of toys is perfect for smaller members of the family, while a delightful range of houseplants can be giftwrapped for someone special. Trelawney also buys many of its Planteria products locally, including bedding plants with vibrant colours and a full range of high quality plants throughout the centre. The knowledgeable team is at hand to recommend the right plant for the right place. For the upcoming beautiful weather in the summer, enjoy the company of friends and family in your garden setting. Trelawney has the very latest barbecues and outdoor living accessories alongside a vast array of quality garden and patio furniture. The centre has extended the area to accommodate the brand new range, into the Garden Room. Wood, wicker, stone and granite furniture add an excellent style statement and with the addition of a Weber barbecue, your garden will be all set for summer.
From large six burner gas barbecues to small portable charcoal Smokey Joe barbecues, their aim is to help you find the perfect model for your needs. If you’re getting ready to do the gardening this spring, Trelawney offers anything from seeds to pots to staging and greenhouses, catering for the smallest vegetable patch to the largest allotment. For the eager green-fingered gardener, the garden centre has a wide range of garden buildings and sheds to choose from. To keep your pets happy this season, brand new this year is Trelawney’s pet care department; with a selection of products for your beloved animals. Specialist food, treats and toys are sure to keep your pets entertained while the range also extends to beds and play towers, collars and leads. A mouth-watering selection of cakes is also now available at the entrance to the Garden Restaurant. With the delicious carvery scents wafting throughout the eatery, explore the range of gorgeous meals available at Trelawney. Brand new this year is the ‘Tea Fusion’ range of herbal teas and ‘Schmoo’ milkshakes sure to delight both young and old. Don’t forget to grab a delicious ice cream or sorbet too in the glorious weather.
Home & Garden
New spring arrivals at Eggesford Gardens With a new flower shop opening in May and a whole host of fantastic Easter events, Eggesford gardens will be springing into life for the new gardening season. Charlies Flower Shop will be opening on Friday May 2 and fresh plant stock will be arriving every week to mark the beginning of a fresh season. From April 18 to 21, Eggesford Gardens will be holding its Easter weekend including a Easter picture hunt for the children with wonderful lucky dip prizes. Fantastic offers will
also be available along with a prize draw. A range of delicious Easter treats will be available in the Gardens Restaurant which is even open on Easter Sunday, though the garden centre will not be open on this day. Eggesford Gardens offers a range of stock including garden tools, equipment and sundries, planting containers, garden statues, ornaments and of course a vast array of beautiful blooming flowers and plants.
The Country Garden Centre
your garden this Easter Summer bedding plants
Relaxed shopping Help & Advice
Trees & shrubs to plant now Garden care products Eggesford Garden & Country Centre Eggesford, Chulmleigh, Devon EX18 7QU Tel 01769 580250
www.eggesfordgardens.com
Creativity with Crafty Needles Easter isn’t just about chocolate; why not try something creative. Handicrafts can be such fun, why not get inspired and take up sewing, or try cross-stitch, crochet or knitting. The Torrington-based shop Crafty Needles is now under new management. Though the space is now smaller, the shop now has a whole host of brand new fabrics, yarn and a range of beautiful ribbons and trimmings available. Create something that will last using a variety of colourful and special fabrics, knitting patterns, accessories, net curtains, yarn, buttons, cotton and ribbons at Crafty Needles this Easter. To help influence your creativity, Crafty Needles currently has a knitting circle on the second Wednesday of each month from 2-3.30pm, and is considering a crochet club and cross stitch on other Wednesdays. The shop is also holding a children’s club on alternate Saturdays 2-3.30pm, with sewing on one week and knitting a fortnight later. Spaces are limited, so book in advance. For more details, call 01805624416, email: craftyneedles@hotmail.co.uk or find them on Facebook ‘craftyneedles’.
Delicious food in The Gardens Restaurant
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New beginnings at Devonshire Pine and Oak Outstanding spring offers will be available at Devonshire Pine & Oak this Easter, including a new factory outlet with brilliant discounts. Replenish your home with the independently-owned furniture company, with more than 170 dedicated local staff at hand. Including quality pine furniture, manufactured from kiln-dried Scandinavian redwood. The timber is delivered to the 220,000 square foot factory in Bideford, where it is machined and assembled, sprayed and packed ready for delivery. Devonshire Pine and Oak is also one of the biggest distributors of oak furniture in the UK. The oak ranges marketed are exclusive to this local business.
Devonshire Pine is also offering 25% off its clearance range, including PHA solid Oak furniture. A brand new area featuring factory seconds will offer discounts up to 50% off, an excellent time to replenish your home. Browse the fantastic collections at Devonshire Pine & Oak, including the Lundy Painted Collection, Devon Chunky Pine, Badger Pine, Tarka Painted, Dorset Oak, New Oak, Rustic Oak, Somerset Oak, PHA Solid Oak Collection and Versailles Oak. Whether you’re seeking a new bedside table or a brand new dining room set, you are guaranteed to find something for your home this spring.