Meridian October 2016 ÂŁ1.00
Your Local What, Where and When Magazine
Where Sold
Queens House Re-opens Plus Half Term Fun
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Am for two at Locale Blackheath
HELLO October is a pretty spectacular month, isn’t it. Considering its the month which snatches away summer, its still one of our favourites. There’s the promise of cosy nights in, crunchy leaves underfoot, big comforting dinners, half-term family time and, of course, Halloween. And you’ll find all of that nestled in between the pages of this issue... In interiors we couldn’t resist being swept away by the autumn equinox and thoughts of cosing up on the sofa with a warm drink. We’ve taken inspiration from those gorgeous nights in to show you how to make your home the cosiest of them all. From wood burners to soft throws, autumnal shades to rearranging the furniture- it’s all about playing to all five senses - apparently. Local mum, Lucy Husband, shares her secrets of where to take the kids this half term. Especially when you’re trying to balance budgets with inventive, boredom-busting days out. You’ll see from our cover that there’ll be somewhere different to visit in Greenwich this autumn, too. As we get ready for the reopening of the Queen’s House, Al Barker from Visit Greenwich, reminds us of it’s immersive history, fabulous architecture and what is new to see and explore.
In love local, we hear about how major improvements coming to Eltham town centre will breathe new life (and job opportunities into the area. And how the Chislehurst Society is planning one helluva Halloween celebration, this month. Get the kids, dress in your finest witches, zombies, skeletons (I could go on) costumes and enjoy a whole route of ‘spooky stations’ along Chislehurst’s high street...read more on page 31. If all that doesn’t fill your autumn boots, we also have part one of our autumn food and drink focus to delight over, events and listings for the month ahead, free to enter competitions, health & beauty, education and much more... Enjoy the issue!
The Meridian Team xx
INSIDE THIS ISSUE....
THE QUEEN’S HOUSE P16-17
INTERIORS P9
EDUCATION P25
HALF TERM FUN P27
CHISLEHURST FUN P29
LOVE LOCAL EAT P33-39
WHAT TO DO P40-43
Meridian MAGAZINE
OCTOBER 2016 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller April Hartley-Watson Claire McKinson Classified Sales: Claire McKinson Social Media: Melissa Wright Contributors: James Haddrell Lucy Husband Al Barker Tamsyn Clark Accounts: Janet Franklin Printing: Precision Colour Printing Distribution CWT Meridian Line Publishing Ltd 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE Tel: 01322 557794 Email: enquiries@meridian-magazine.co.uk
www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
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MeridianmagLDN Meridian Magazine is for you, published monthly and distributed to selected residential properties and businesses within the Royal Borough of Greenwich and in Blackheath, Westcombe Park, Charlton, Eltham, Lee, Hither Green, Bromley and Chislehurst. Copies also go to Greenwich Tourist Information Centre, libraries and leisure centres, pubs, restaurants and hotels. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (including advertisement designs) without prior written permission will result in legal action. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily shared by the editor or the publisher.
Major Improvements For Eltham
LOVE LOCA L
A long-held vision to breathe new life into Eltham Town Centre and building a new cinema complex is at the heart of those plans
Apart from an abundance of green space, Eltham abounds with history - with the stunning Eltham Palace, favourite home of Henry VIII and just off Eltham High Street, Well Hall Pleasaunce and the Tudor Barn, which is all that remains of the eleventh-century country mansion that was built for Sir Thomas More’s daughter, Meg. More recently, Edith Nesbit, author of The Railway Children, lived in a house in the grounds of what later became Well Hall Pleasaunce from 1899 to 1921. But Eltham is changing, work on a major improvement scheme for Eltham High Street started in February this year as part of the council’s regeneration master plan for the town centre. The scheme, drawn up in close partnership with local residents and businesses, is primarily funded by Transport for London (TfL) and includes: better pedestrian crossings, new trees and landscaping, the widening and re-paving of footpaths, more parking spaces and a general de-cluttering of the high street. The improvements alongside the new Eltham Cinema complex will enhance the town.
Nando’s is all set to join Vue Entertainment at the new 6-screen cinema complex, with the creation of a 310 sq. metre restaurant with a 20-year lease agreement. Councillor Denise Hyland, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “The complex will be a major new attraction, creating new jobs for the local community and the work we are also doing to improve the general high street environment shows how we are driving real change in Eltham.” Work is likely to start on-site during this autumn, with the main building works anticipated to start during the first quarter of 2017. The new cinema complex scheme will see 100 full and part jobs created during the construction phase and more once the complex opens, anticipated to be in the second half of 2018.
Eltham is all set to welcome its vibrant Eltham Arts Winter Festival. Running from 29 October to 20 November 2016, the fun-packed programme showcases the creative talent of the SE9 community. From theatre, music and art to its heritage walks and talks, the 23 days filled with over 135 entertaining events and activities offers something for everyone. Organised by community group, Eltham Arts and the enthusiastic SE9 creative network, the festival programme listings will be on their website shortly. www.elthamarts.org
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M E RID IA N INT ERIO RS
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3 Hot Autumn Trends for 2016 We recently quizzed three of our Ream Kitchen Designers on styles, hues, finishes and furnishings they predict will dominate over autumn 2016.
The key is to only adopt the trends you truly love and that reflect your tastes, otherwise you run the risk of being left with a kitchen that will fall out of favour quickly. Putting your own spin on these of-the-moment looks will also ensure your culinary space offers enduring appeal and will serve you and your family well for many years to come.
1. Vintage Flavour
According to kitchen designer, Dennis Butcher of Ream in New Eltham, designs that blend contemporary styles and vintage flair is a key look which defines the autumn 2016 trends. This is welcome news for renovators who aren’t fans of the ultra-sleek kitchens which don’t offer a whole lot of heart or cosiness. “We are seeing a resurgence of a kitchen that is timeless, functional and reflects true home culture,” says Dennis.
2. Thin benchtops
It time to say goodbye to chunky, thick worktops and hello to slender barely there counters, says Paul. So, exactly how slim are we talking? “The thinner the better,” says the Ream Kitchen Designer, who notes that thanks to new technology and product development, worktops as small as 3 millimetres thick are available. This growing trend is building momentum and sets to be a key feature in the autumn - to let the texture of the product tell all of the story.
3. Its only natural
The natural trend is a direct reflection of society wanting to take a step back and slow things down. Lara notes, “The more high-tech we become, the more we want to surround ourselves with textures and objects which connect us with nature. At times of uncertainty, we seek things which are authentic and real”. Rustic wood,
natural stone and concrete are a few materials to consider incorporating into this earthy and timeless home look. Adding greenery, from herbs to plants and even grass, enhances your culinary zone and emphasises its earthy and organic feel. Do you want to refresh your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom this autumn? Visit Ream today and speak to one of our experienced designers to get creative and transform your (D)Ream room. www.ream.co.uk Ream New Eltham Showroom 758 Sidcup Road, New Eltham, SE9 3NS Tel: 020 8166 8173 Mon-Sat: 9am – 5:30pm Ream Gillingham Showroom 10 & 11 Matilda Close, Gillingham Business Park, Gillingham, Kent ME8 0PY Tel: 01634 799914
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M E RID IA N INT ERIO RS
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COSY UP To conjure up a sense of warmth and cosiness, you must play to the senses - especially sight and touch. Sofas and chairs need to beckon you to sink into them. Muffle hard-backed furniture with throws: chenille, faux fur, mohair - or faux suede for a more masculine look. Change your scatter cushion covers to velvet, suede, wool, or heavy-weave cotton. Avoid silk, polyester and anything that looks shiny and feels cold. Consider heavier curtains; ready-to-hang curtain panels, with tab tops in faux suede, give a plush look and provide good draft exclusion. Add a large statement rug that is soft underfoot, especially if you have wood or tile floors. Colours are important as they can change the feel of a room. Choose from: warm golden yellows, ochre, earthy terracotta, deep reds and olive greens. Avoid: cool and pale colours. Deep, dark,
rich wood tones like walnut, cherry and oak add warmth to the scheme. Your furniture arrangement should be inviting, not angular and formal. Avoid L-shaped, rectangular and square configurations. Instead, pull pieces forward around a focal point - preferably a fireplace. If space allows, create more than one seating area. Have a reading corner by a window with a small table and a couple of chairs or a chaise lounge, or include movable, upholstered cubes and floor cushions. Nothing beats sitting in front of a roaring fire on a winter’s night with a book and a glass of wine. A wood burning stove can be a lovely focal point in
a living room, and wood logs create a traditional feel. Even if you don’t have a chimney-breast or gas supply, you can still give your room the perfect winter focal point with a huge range of antique, reproduction and contemporary fires on the market. Living in a smoke-free zone doesn’t mean you cant use a multi-fuel or wood burning stove, many are approved by DEFRA for use in smoke-free zones just check with a reliable supplier. For the finishing touch, keep the lighting soft and inviting, opt for candles or table lamps, dotted around the room rather than a harsh central ceiling light. All ready for a cosy night in…
M E R IDIA N LOV E LO CAL
The newly reopened Queen’s House
Restoration work under way at the Painted Hall
The newly reopened Queen’s House will host a major art exhibition featuring 450 works of art by great British and European artists, including: Van Dyck, Gainsborough, and Reynolds
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The Queen’s House - The Perfect Gift!
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RMG
The centrepiece of the exhibition is the amazing Armada Portrait of Queen Elizabeth I, which is on permanent public display for the first time ever, after a successful national public fundraising appeal. An Art Fund appeal generated £1.5m of the £10.3m price tag from 8,000 donations, including hundreds of pounds from a group of schoolgirls who raised the money by baking and selling cupcakes.
It’s always nice to get an apology gift, isn’t it? You know what I mean, you’ve had an explosive row with your nearest in which you were completely and utterly in the right. They eventually realise you were completely and utterly in the right and quickly bring you flowers, or chocolates, or maybe even a weekend break, just to show how humble and apologetic they are. You probably wouldn’t expect anything more than that, would you? It would be greedy. You definitely wouldn’t expect to be given a palatial mansion. But that’s exactly what happened to Anne of Denmark, the wife of James I, after she accidentally shot one of his favourite hunting dogs and he swore at her in front of his red-faced courtiers. Swearing at the Queen was scandalous, especially in front of underlings, even if you were the King. To say sorry, he bought her the Queen’s House at the foot of Greenwich Park, which is just about to re-open after over a year of extensive refurbishment. Commissioned in 1616, as an apology, the House celebrates its 400th anniversary this year. The newly reopened Queen’s House will host a major art exhibition featuring 450 works of art by great British and European artists, including: Van Dyck, Gainsborough, and Reynolds. The new exhibition focuses on the creation and history of the house and on the people who helped make it what it is today. As well as the Armada Portrait, there will be a spectacular new work (in gold leaf) on the ceiling of the Great Hall, by Turner Prize-winning artist, Richard Wright and inspired by the newly-restored Tulip Stairs. This is the first piece of work specially commissioned for the hall
since the 1630s. It’s all going to be very beautiful. The Queen’s House was built on part of the site of the Tudor palace where Henry VIII and Elizabeth I were born. Elizabeth’s half-sister, Mary I was also born there, but no-one ever mentions her because she was a bad lot. You have to be a bit of a bad lot to end up with a nickname like ‘Bloody Mary’. The house was designed by Inigo Jones who started out as a theatre set designer, but became inspired by the Italian architect, Andrea Palladio, whose clean classical style has influenced architects ever since the early 17th century and still does. Look at any house with a covered portico, like the Queen’s House, columns or Venetian windows, and you’re looking at classic Palladian design. You can see classical architecture all over the country today, but the Queen’s House was the first example in Britain. Inigo’s internal design can still be seen in the Great Hall, which is a perfect cube; in the distinctive marble flooring with its black and white, geometric pattern; and the glorious Tulip Stairs. Sadly, for Anne of Denmark, she never got to see her extravagant apology gift, because she died in 1619 before even the ground floor was completed. The house was finally finished under the supervision of Henrietta Maria, Charles I’s wife, around 1638. Now, it’s been extensively refurbished and will soon be ready for visitors. You should definitely be one of them. Al Barker visitgreenwich.org.uk
The Tulip Stairs
The Queen’s House reopens on the 11th October for opening times and tickets go to www.rmg.co.uk/queens-house Queen’s House Romney Road, Greenwich London SE10 9NF
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ME R IDIA N HEALT H
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Kick Start a New Health Regime Walking is the fitness training we can all do, with very little start up expense, just a pair of good walking shoes and you’re off. Whether you follow one of the many Green Chain Walks or the Thames Path you’ll enjoy the views and feel the benefit. Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by walking regularly. It’s great cardio exercise, lowering levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. The Stroke Association says that a brisk 30-minute walk every day helps to prevent and control the high blood pressure that causes strokes, reducing the risk by up to 27 percent. A regular walking habit slashes the risk of Type 2 diabetes by around 60 percent, and you’re 20 percent less likely to develop several types of cancer with an active hobby, such as walking.
To find out more about your local Green Chain walks, visit: www.greenchain.com
Introducing Rejuva-Ten Health’s-Angels tell us about their new 10-day Rejuva programme - for those wanting to reboot their metabolism and kick start a weight loss and cleanse. Rejuva-Ten is perfect for: • Those already on a diet who want to maximise their results • Those with weddings/holidays on the horizon who want to look/feel amazing • Those who need a kick start to balance their body and purge their body of toxins and bad fats • People whom feel sluggish and demotivated and want professional help and support on an unrivalled wellness system, used and recommended by the medical healthcare profession.
• X 1 lifestyle analysis • X 10-day meal suggestion programme consisting of an abundance of natural, healthy foods including chicken, fish, lamb, brown rice, fruits, salads and luscious dressings (vegetarian options available) • X 2 weigh-in, full body measures and thermographic digestive scans • Coaching from specialist therapists • Maintenance programme and end of treatment consultation to ensure the right direction for you to sustain and maintain your results
Rejuva-Ten includes: • A free 20 minute consultation and digestive scan • X 3 RejuvaDetox sessions with the revolutionary lymphatic drainage and fat breakdown system
All for only £195. To find out more about Rejuva-Ten call: 01322 555600 www.healths-angels.com facebook.com/healthsangels
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M E R I DI A N E DUCATI O N
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Bromley High: Exceptional, Award-Winning Education
Bromley High’s 2016 inspection judged the school to be excellent in all areas – with the rare accolade of exceptional given to the outstanding quality of learning and achievement in the school. For the second year running, Bromley High School has been short-listed for the Education Business Award for Outstanding Progress in a UK Independent School. It was also one of five short-listed schools drawn from across the state and independent sectors for the award for Outstanding Provision for the Teaching of STEM subjects: Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. After another year of superb results (85% A*-B at A level and over a third of girls achieving 9 or 10 A* - A grades at GCSE (Sept 2016)), leavers took up places at Barts Medical School, Exeter, Bristol, Sheffield, Warwick, Loughborough and Nottingham, amongst the favourite destinations, with other girls gaining places at medical schools and art colleges. Bromley High buzzes with the sound of girls engaged in dramatic performance,, dance and debate. One of our leavers took up a starring role in the BBC’s Eastenders, whilst one of our junior girls is still wowing West End audiences in the lead role in ‘Matilda’. The musical and dramatic life of the school has featured a sublime chamber concert, in the beautiful surroundings of the Swiss Church in Covent Garden, and a spectacular all singing and dancing production of the hit, ‘High School Musical.’ A triumphant hockey season saw our U16s crowned outdoor and indoor Kent County Hockey Champions. Girls gained national representative honours in diving, swimming, rowing, hockey, biathlon, gymnastics and tennis; and girls in Years 7 to 10 won 25 county representative honours in 8 separate sports. The Junior School U11 biathlon team were placed 2nd in the UK. Tennis too has had an impressive season, with the Junior School sweeping the board at the Kent County Championships, and our U12 team winning the Girls’ School Association Doubles Championship for the first time. True to the school’s doctrine of sporting excellence and sport for all, there were plenty of C and D team fixtures for girls to enjoy and the school opened a swish new fitness suite to allow Sixth Form girls to develop a lifelong habit of enjoyment of a healthy lifestyle. Angela Drew, Headmistress, Bromley High School We look forward to meeting you and your daughter. We are holding a Sixth Form Taster Day and Open Evening on Thursday October 13th. Booking is essential on: www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net Contact: admissions@bro.gdst.net for more details. Follow us on twitter @bromleyhs Bromley High School, Blackbrook Lane, Bickley, Bromley, Kent BR1 2TW
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ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N
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London South East Colleges – Your Career Starts Here It is an exciting time for education across south east London. This summer, Greenwich Community College and Bexley College joined forces with Bromley College to create London South East Colleges*. The newly-merged college offers a huge range of qualifications and apprenticeships across a number of industries. Each of its sites has industry-standard facilities and close links with employers to ensure that all students have the best possible chance of career success. From its 14-16 Technical Academy and wide range of vocational programmes, through to a suite of degree and professional qualifications, London South East Colleges provide high-quality education for people of all ages, abilities and interests. Each college will continue to offer a full programme of courses, from Hair and Beauty, Engineering and Business, to Science, Education, Childcare and Construction and many more. More importantly, students have the opportunity to progress through levels, with a variety of pathways available to reach their desired career. Expert support is offered in Maths and English, to ensure that all students meet the required standards in both of these subjects. Each site has bespoke Maths and English ‘hubs’ which are open on a daily basis, with staff on hand to provide help and support. London South East Colleges offers more than just a qualification. Its Career Advantage Programme is open to all students and equips them with additional employability and entrepreneurial skills that employers look for. From CV writing and digital skills workshops, to mock interviews and work experience, the Career Advantage gives you that something extra to stand out. For more information and to find great course, visit: www.lsec.ac.uk *London South East Colleges is the trading name of Bromley College of Further and Higher Education
Exciting Changes There are exciting changes this year with regards to PE within The Pointer School. The Pointer School now has a new PE teacher, Mr. Jack Jolly. Jack has a degree in PE and Sport and also holds a teacher training qualification specifically in the area of PE. Recruiting a specialist will ensure that the pupils are getting the most out of their PE lessons, and are taught the correct skills and techniques within a variety of different sports that we offer within the school. Physical education is now being promoted on a much larger scale both in and out of school, where we have put together new sports teams. We look forward, therefore, to competing successfully against other local schools in each of these disciplines. Currently, the pupils are enjoying attending trials for the various sports.
Case study: Paolo Pretara (19), Sport and Exercise Science, Level 3 “My ambition is to become a Physical Training Instructor in the Army and then, later, to be a Police Officer. This course is preparing me well and has given me the knowledge to be able to make solid plans for the future. I’ve always felt that I have lots of options and opportunities in front of me. “The facilities here are just brilliant. We have an amazing gymnasium and sports hall, acres of sports fields and specialist sports science labs. The tutors are knowledgeable and come from the public services sector. That means they know what they are talking about and can teach you industry relevant skills.”*
Stop Press: Pointers wonderful Chess Team will this academic year be defending their title of the No 1 Chess Team in Kent and the No 2 in London.
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M E R IDIA N OUT AND ABOU T
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Half Term Fun If you’re looking for things to do with the children over the October half term then look no further than Greenwich and it’s surrounding areas. Below are a range of tried and tested activities and days out, ordered from the most to the least expensive -Lucy Husband
The Planetarium at The Royal Observatory
Woodlands Farm, Shooters Hill
My 8-year-old daughter loves the Astronomy Centre and the Planetarium, as do I. As of 17 September, the magical Insight Astronomy Photographer of the Year will be on exhibit and in a special show in The Planetarium. A trip to see this will not only fill your eyes with cosmic beauty but also your mind with astronomical facts. There are a range of interactive and hands-on family events happening in the half term, ranging from ‘Holiday to Space’ to ‘Observatory Unlocked’, which combines talks and workshops along with a show in the Planetarium. All this in the middle of one of London’s most beautiful royal parks is bound to be a holiday winner.
At the bottom of Shooters Hill, opposite the beautiful Oxleas Wood is an 89-acre working city farm containing a variety of farm animals and the opportunity to see a variety of bird and insect species. The farm is run predominantly by friendly and informative volunteers and, combined with a walk in the woods, provides a free, healthy and enjoyable day out for the family. Join them on 16 October for A ‘ pple Day’, which celebrates British apples and includes a variety of activities for all the family, including a treasure hunt and apple pressing.
Eltham Palace and Gardens
The Museum of London Docklands
A hidden gem, Eltham Palace is a beautiful mix of an historic palace and an art deco house. My children adored the fabulous tale of the mischievous ring-tailed lemur, Mah-Jong, who lived there in the 1930’s with his eccentric owners, the Courtaulds. Furthermore, the children (and the adults!) loved the many opportunities to dress up in period costumes and pretend to be the lady or the gentleman of the house. On a good day, the gardens and play area provide ample room to run off steam and the fish in the moat are amazing. Half term activities include a daily fancy dress competition and pumpkin carving.
A short boat ride away from the Greenwich Cutty Sark, in the middle of the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf is one of the most family friendly museums I have ever been to. It does what it says on the tin – it charts the history of the docklands – but everywhere you go there are ways to get the children involved; listening posts, touchable exhibits, story time for toddlers, things to climb inside and things to climb up. Next to the gift shop is the Mudlarks Gallery, a soft play area with a dockland theme and educational. There are loads of events happening in the half term – I like the look of the ‘Sea Legends Family Rave’. The best thing? It’s all totally FREE.
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Rachel McMillan Nursery School and Children’s Centre McMillan Street, London SE8 3EH Tel: 020 8692 4041 Headteacher: Theresa Lane
Full Time and Part time including free 15 hour places l Highly motivated, stable staff team, including qualified teachers l Wonderful large garden l Outdoor learning l Forest School l Breakfast and tea sessions available to buy l Child focussed EYFS curriculum We are an inclusive Greenwich Nursery School that has been educating children in Deptford since 1914. We would like to work with you to support your children to become competent, independent learners who are very good at making positive relationships with adults and children Come and visit us, we would love to meet you and your children
www.rachelmcmillannursery.co.uk Twitter: @RachelMcNursery
M E R IDIA N OUT AND ABOU T
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It’s gonna get scary in Chislehurst…
On the afternoon of Friday 28 October, take a visit to Chislehurst and you’ll be in for a spooky surprise!
The local Visit Chislehurst team are organising the Linklater & Warren Halloween Pumpkin Hunt along the High Street, with treats and surprises for hundreds of local children. Halloween has certainly become part of the events calendar in most towns and Chislehurst has really embraced this very American occasion! The event is organised by www.visitchislehurst. org.uk which is run by the Chislehurst Business Group who are striving to create a thriving and vibrant town for all their residents and visitors to enjoy. Businesses and local community organisations support the event by each creating a ‘spooky station’ on the route so children can collect treats or get crafty. Last year, the Trustees of the Commons team, based at the much loved Prickend Pond had the children creating bats to take home whilst Sweet Sundae, a wonderful traditional sweet shop were handing out the most fabulous treats for kids to enjoy. Over 400 children took part last year, each getting dressed for the occasion and getting into the spirit of things (sorry, too tempting!). The pavements
were heaving with vampires, witches, zombies, foxes, rats, cats and the weird and the wonderful too. The atmosphere was buoyant and the kids were happily queuing, meeting new friends and enjoying the great weather. Each of the organisations involved really gets behind the event – decorating their shops, dressing up and providing treats and sweets for the kids to enjoy. There will also be some entertainment by local performing arts school, All the Arts, who will have their ‘mini’ performers do a small show near the start of the trail at Age UK, right in the centre of Chislehurst High Street. This event is a huge community effort with title sponsors, Linklater & Warren Opticians not only helping to financially back the event but get really involved in the organisation too. Associate sponsors, The Queen’s Head pub will be promoting discounts for customers after the event and local minicab firm, Cannon Cars, will be showing their support helping to ship pumpkins in and around
Chislehurst just prior to the occasion. The event also receives in-kind support from local design agency, Nugget Design, who have created all the publicity materials and local dentist, Signature Dental who help to stage the event on the day. There are also a legion of individuals and high street businesses either donating their time or prizes for the much anticipated fancy dress competition! For the last two years, the event has been completely full and in 2016, they will be charging a small fee to not only cover the event costs but also to help fund the Chislehurst Christmas Lights. The Chislehurst Business Group is a collection of more than 130 local businesses and with the income their membership fee generates they not only help to fund the Christmas lights but also the Visit Chislehurst website and local events. The more funds they can raise, the more they can do to improve the town and local area. Tamsyn Clark Find out more on the Visit Chislehurst website www.visitchislehurst.org.uk/pumpkinhunt
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Blackheath’s dining hot-spot By David Fitzgerald-Elliot, food writer
When Blackheath’s iconic fine dining restaurant, Chapter Two morphed into Chapters eight years ago moving with the casual dining trend it still kept its quality ethos. With a relaxed atmosphere it widened its appeal to a larger demographic. In the event, the new-look Chapters didn’t let down its old clientele by offering a clever fusion of the same fine dining quality cooking with a laid-back style and less formal approach. Even as Blackheath has become something of a dining hot-spot, Chapters for me is still the place to eat and be seen. It is something of a niche eatery, a rarity in as much as it is still privately owned and the chef actually decides what dishes he is going to serve and where he is going to source his ingredients – more often than not locally. You get the feeling that the most important discussion at management meetings isn’t the profit margin, but do the people who dine here enjoy the experience and how can we make dining at Chapters even more appealing. Personally I think they have got pretty close to perfection and not many restaurants in my experience have managed that. However, I find it a bit on the noisy side when it’s busy and it usually is, but the food is more than good enough to make that a minor irritation and sometimes it can be difficult to get a table, but the staff quickly offset that with their cheerful and friendly approach and sitting at the bar to wait for a table is not such a bad deal.
What I really love about Chapters and that’s nearly everything, is that fact that sitting in the kitchen is a Josper oven. Now for those of you that aren’t familiar with this particular bit of kit, a Josper oven cooks using charcoal embers and it produces the best steaks you will ever eat. 0I had a rib-eye steak and triple-cooked chips last time I ate there and my girlfriend ordered a Chapters Burger served with gherkins, onions, tomato and chips. She also had a smoked Applewood Cheddar cheese topping. Both dishes were faultless. Our bill totalled just under £67 including a very nice bottle of Rioja Tinto. They also offer some fabulous set-menu options both for lunch and dinner, with their 2 course lunch priced at just £12.95. Whilst dining I noticed the Christmas menus look very good and I should only imagine that the atmosphere during the festive period is fun and buzzy. The Christmas set menu is just £22.95 for lunch and the downstairs area would be just perfect for my annual Christmas office do. It doesn’t take long to appreciate just how good Chapters is at what it does. While I have nothing against the chain outlets, some of which are really good, there is nothing to beat a meal prepared and served by people who put their heart and soul into making sure you leave with great memories of a meal enjoyed and the desire to return.
Chapters of Blackheath Montpelier Vale, Blackheath Village, London SE3 OTJ 020 8333 2666 chaptersblackheath.com
ME RID IA N LOV E LO CAL EAT
Tomas Lidakevicius Takes the Helm
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Good Food in Greenwich is cooking up a storm with surplus food from Fareshare! Every year, thousands of tonnes of perfectly good food is sent to landfill; food that is perfectly good and could be used to feed people. Using some of this amazing food, Good Food are going to cook up a storm for the people of Greenwich to show just how delicious food surplus can be!
InterContinental London – The O2, the newly launched luxury hotel on the vibrant Greenwich Peninsula, has announced Tomas Lidakevicius has taken over the helm as Head Chef at the Peninsula Restaurant: the hotel’s elegant eatery.
Please join us on the 15 October for a free meal and to find out about how Good Food in Greenwich is working with partners to help prevent food from being wasted in the borough. Saturday 15 October from 12pm. General Gordon Square, Woolwich.
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DINN ER FOR T WO
Located on the 2nd floor of the 18-storey hotel, Peninsula Restaurant is an elegant and stylish dining room for just 80 guests. The restaurant boasts spectacular views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf and offers a serene and luxurious environment for diners and hotel guests, whether for a business lunch or a romantic dinner. Paying homage to the restaurant’s location in historic maritime Greenwich, Tomas has created a menu reflective of the spice, exotic fruit and fresh fish trade that passed through east London’s docks to be sold at London’s Billingsgate and Greenwich markets. Taking inspiration from modern and classic European cuisine, Tomas uses the very best fresh local produce to create seasonal tasting menus at the Peninsula Restaurant that deliver exceptional flavour and look striking on the plate. www.intercontinental.co/o2 020 8463 6868 Intercontinental O2 Hotel 1 Waterview Drive Greenwich Peninsula
A firm fixture on the Blackheath restaurant scene for many years, Locale is, as the name suggests, about local neighbourhood dining. The décor, menu, live music events and glamorous bar ensure Locale Blackheath continues to be one of south London’s premier dining destinations. The menu is an exciting mix of homemade pasta (that Locale is famous for) with seasonal choices including a great selection of fresh seafood, sushi and grilled meats. The menus provide diners with the perfect mix of a treat, family favourites and the chance to branch out and experience new tastes, flavours and entertainment. WIN! A three course dinner for two from our a la carte menu, plus a bottle of house wine, worth £125. Available Sunday-Friday. To enter go to: www.meridian-magazine. co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to: win@ meridian-magazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
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Zeytin Traditional Turkish and Meze Bar Lazy Sundays, don’t want to cook but still want to meet up with family or friends? Zeytin Restaurant in Greenwich High Road has the perfect solution with the recent launch of their Turkish Breakfast/Brunch Buffet. Already proving popular with the locals, this Sunday brunch costs £9.95 and lets you help yourself to the unlimited buffet, returning as many times as you like.
Spice up your Christmas with a Turkish twist Thinking ahead and Christmas will be upon us in no time, while many will opt for the traditional Turkey why not opt for the traditional Turkish for a change?
You don’t have to be early risers as the buffet is on offer between 9.30am and 2pm, allowing plenty of time to relax, unwind and enjoy some real, authentic Turkish food.
Turkey is famous for it’s spices as it stands at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East; and Turkey has long been a hub for trading. It was an important destination of the camel caravans that travelled the Silk Road and brought exotic goods and spices westward. Today, Turkish cuisine includes many rich spices that give its food a unique flavour.
The buffet has a selection of cold meats, cheeses, a selection of fresh salads, along side hot food dishes such as the popular Turkish one-pan eggs and peppers dish, Menemen: Turkish-style scrambled eggs where scrambled eggs are softly cooked with onions, peppers. This gutsy dish is a brilliant family dish for brunch. Fresh pastries baked in-house include: boreks: Turkish savoury pastries with different fillings, try the spinach and feta cheese - they’re irresistible. Plus, made to order light, fluffy omelettes with a filling of your choice - you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Zeytin’s Head Chef has put together a selection of traditional Turkish dishes for Christmas festivities. Including: Hindi Güvec Tender turkey breast cooked in a clay pot with seasonal veg, Chicken Topkapi Stuffed chicken thighs stuffed with a spiced rice with raisins and pine kernels, Lamb Shish Risotto Marinated lamb cubes charcoal grilled on a bed of creamy risotto, Charcoal Grilled Steak Rib-eye steak charcoal grilled with creamed mushroom sauce and Poached Sea Bass and seasonal vegetables.
All served with a choice of fresh fruit juice, smoothies and coffee, plus a selection of cocktails including: Earl Grey Martinis that will add to the leisurely brunch.
Zeytinrestaurant.co.uk. 020 8692 2458. Zeytin Restaurant, 63 Greenwich High Road, Greenwich SE10 8JL
Foodies Festival
The UK’s biggest food festival, returns to Truman Brewery to kick start the festive celebrations on 18, 19 and 20 November. Meet MasterChef winner, Jane Devonshire and finalist, Jack Layer, Michelin starred chef, Adam Simmonds and celebrity chef, Ed Baines as they cook their signature recipes in the Aga Rangemaster Chefs Theatre. Feast in the Street Food Avenue; satisfy your sweet tooth with a cake decorating and chocolate making masterclass; buy gourmet gifts for your loved ones at the artisan producers market; take the little ones to the Elf’s Cookery Theatre; enter the chilli eating competition; warm up with a mulled wine at the Ski Bar. The Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London Opening times: Friday 18 November: 12pm - 7pm adult £15 VIP £35, Saturday 19 November: 11am - 7pm Adult £18 VIP £39, Sunday 20 November: 11am - 6pm Adult £18 VIP £39.
TICKETS WIN! Meridian have 10 pairs of tickets for the Foodies Festival to give away on the day of your choice! To enter, go to: www.meridian-magazine. co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to win@ meridian-magazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
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Aqua Mediterranean Bar and Grill comfort food with a dash of style Aqua Mediterranean Bar and Grill, in the heart of Blackheath Village, with its stylish, contemporary interior and friendly service has gained a reputation for its Mediterranean dishes; including some Greek and Italian specialties.
Jacob’s Ladder
New menus… The Aqua menu already features a good selection of pasta and risottos, as well as fish and meat dishes; all freshly made and using as much local produce as possible. As the seasons change so too has the menu at Aqua, which has some new dishes added to reflect the desire for more comforting foods, with rich flavours to warm and satisfy. With a sneak preview diners can expect to see dishes such as seared king scallops with chorizo crisp and served with cauliflower puree as a starter. A main dish under the heading of ‘house specialities’ has the intriguing name of Jacob’s Ladder (named after a stairway between earth and heaven from religious mythology), which is slow braised rib of beef
with roasted shallots, smoked bacon lardons and cherry tomatoes, served with a hearty helping of creamy mashed potato - truly heavenly. For fish lovers: roasted cod, served with courgette fries and a herby sauce vierge, and a popular pasta dish that is rich and creamy: conchiglie with smoked duo salmon - smoked salmon, asparagus, dill and a white wine cream sauce. Not forgetting the all import dessert menu and who doesn’t love cheesecake, especially the popular salted caramel kind?
Aqua Mediterranean Bar and Grill www.aquabarandgrill.co.uk 020 8318 1143 3-5 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath SE3 0TA
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… And if you’re planning a Christmas party for family and friends or a work do, you need to book early to get the day/ time of your choice. Aqua Blackheath have already put together their traditional Christmas menu for December, which can be viewed online. For those who would rather let someone else cook over festive period, Aqua will be open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Eve. If you are planning to see the New Year in, why not take advantage of their amazing Early Bird offer: a 50% discount on the £70 NYE dinner (set menu), served between 5-8.30pm (diners must vacate their table by 8.45pm) before moving on to party the night away and see in 2017! Aqua have a function room for hire which has its own private bar and can seat up to forty guests, perfect for a Christmas party or celebration. www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N ONGOING ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, COURSES One-to-one instrumental & vocal tuition for all age groups, plus a range of courses. The Conservatoire, Lee Road Blackheath, SE3. Info: 020 8852 0234 or info@conservatoire.org.uk
BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY
LIZZIE JAMES HADDRELL, ARTISTIC & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GREENWICH THEATRE TALKS ABOUT THIS UNIQUE MUSICAL
Stimulating lectures and intriguing outings. Fourth Thursday of the month except Aug and Dec. 2.30pm. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk St Mary’s Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackeath SE3.
GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY
Monthly lectures at King William Court, Room 315, University of Greenwich, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10. 8pm on 2nd Monday of the month, except April & August. Refreshments from 7.15pm. 020 8852 7873 or www.gdfas.org
EVERY MON ROTARY CLUB OF LEWISHAM & PENGE
Local businessmen and women giving help locally, national and internationally. We meet at 7pm for a dinner, with speakers on a variety of subjects. Contact Peter Earl on 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley.
WOOLWICH SINGERS One of the perennial questions asked in the theatre industry is where the next big musical is going to come from. Theatre contributes billions of pounds to the UK economy every year and everybody wants to know where the next major production is going to come from, the next musical hit to match the long-running success of titles like Les Miserables or The Phantom Of The Opera. The West End has seen a major influx of jukebox musicals in recent years, with the likes of Mamma Mia and We Will Rock You making a major impact. Film adaptations have also found their way into the mix with shows like Billy Elliott and The Lion King attracting large audiences, and family books like Matilda and Charlie And The Chocolate Factory have also proved popular. However, the thing that interests me is where the next genuinely new musical will emerge from. To that end, we are partnering with Denmark’s Frederica Teater to bring the new musical LIZZIE to London for its UK premiere in February next year – and tickets are already on sale. Frederica Teater is an award-winning theatre that has hosted or produced numerous European and World premieres, including the production of Disney’s Aladdin - The Musical that is currently running in the West End and on Broadway. However, unlike Aladdin, LIZZIE is inspired by true events. In 1892, Lizzie Borden was arrested
for murdering her father and her stepmother with an axe in their Massachusetts home. Apparently convinced that her stepmother was after her father’s money, Lizzie was believed to have taken matters into her own hands after seeing her father kill the pigeons that she loved with a hatchet. Her trial, and her subsequent acquittal, became a media sensation, and while the case remains officially unsolved there is every chance that Lizzie Borden may indeed have killed her parents. Following in the footsteps of shows like Sweeney Todd in making music out of murder, LIZZIE is a rock musical fronted by four astonishing female singers, with music which owes less to Stephen Sondheim or Andrew Lloyd Webber and more to bands like Heart and The Runaways. Søren Møller, my opposite number at Frederica Teater, said “We are thrilled that Lizzie is coming to London. It is an amazing and unique show. Genuine hard-rock combined with exciting storytelling. I am extremely pleased to get a chance to remount this show with an international cast. It is truly original.” LIZZIE, 22 February-12 March 2017
A community choir. No audition required to join. The aim is to sing together and have fun! £2 per week, refreshments provided. 7.30pm-9pm. Call 07812 477 775 Public Hall, Wellington St, Woolwich SE18 6PW (entrance via Town Hall).
EVERY TUES LADIES BELLY DANCE GROUP
Fun and gentle exercise with well known dancer and performer Maria Louisa. Ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes are invited to join! Call Age Exchange for info on 07802 521210. 11.45am.The Bakehouse Theatre, 11 Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.
EVERY THURS ROTARY CLUB OF GREENWICH For like-minded business people to meet & help the community. If visiting please contact Sarah Campbell 07958527877 Old Colfeans Rugby Football Club, Horn Park, Eltham Road SE9 8UE.
BLACKHEATH BOWLING CLUB
Bowls is a great way of getting some fresh air and light exercise and making new friends. Small, friendly afternoon club looking for new members, experienced or not. For more info call Club Capt. David Kilburn on 020 8857 2471. 2.30pm. Near Rangers House, Blackheath.
www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk Box Office 020 8858 7755
EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT
1pm – 2pm. Free. www.charlton-house.org 020 8856 3951. Charlton House, Charlton Rd; SE7
E:MAIL events@meridian-magazine.co.uk
TANGOWORKOUT
er, as he shares his research experience around the subject and explains how this discovery has opened up a brand new line of research in astrophysics. 6.30 – 7.30pm. £8 adult, £7 concs. Book inadvance via www.rmg.co.uk. Royal Observatory, Blackheath Avenue, GreenwichSE10 8XJ.
CHARLTON JUDO CLUB
FRI 7 OCT WORDS & MUSIC WW 1
Classes connecting Tango with health and well being, for men and women. 7.15pm - 9.15pm. Beginners and intermediate classes. £7. West Greenwich Commu- nity Centre, 141 Greenwich High Road, SE10 8JA.
Judo training sessions for anyone aged 10 years and over. If you do not have a judo suit wear baggy t-shirt and old jog bottoms. From beginners upwards. 8.15-9.30pm. £3 per session. Call Lorraine on 07932767385 or email lollyjudo1975@aol.com. NCCA Community Hall, 217 Maryon Road, Charlton SE7 8DB.
EVERY SAT HORNIMAN FARMERS’ MARKET
A locally sourced, locally sold farmers’ market selling vegetables, meat, bread, flowers, hot food and much more in the glorious gardens. The Horniman Museum Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE 23.
EVERY 2ND SAT BOOK SALE
Friends of Age Exchange. www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.uk. 10am-4pm. Bakehouse Bookshop, Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.
EVERY 2ND & 4TH SATURDAY RARE - FARMERS MARKET
Quality locally sourced artisan food for residents and visitors to buy on the day. Traders range from bakers, greengrocers, cheesemongers, florists, fresh fruit with many more. Major Draper St, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6GD (Indoor), No.1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6FB (Outdoor).
EVERY SUN CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SOCIETY
Blackheath. Services and Sunday School held at the Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath at 11am. Also at the Clarendon Hotel, our monthly Testimony Meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month at 8pm.
BLACKHEATH QUAKERS
Meeting for worship. 10.30am-11.30am every Sunday. Visitors welcome. For more details, including room hire on 07908 587 695 or email quakerhall@aol.com. Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3 9LL.
THURS 6 OCT LINDY HOP WITH TEMUJIN GILL
Social Dance Thursdays returns this autumn with a different style of social dance each month. With bar open throughout, these evenings offer a relaxed and sociable setting for newcomers, experienced social dancers and everyone in between! Time: 7.30 – 9.30pm. £10, £7.50 concs. The Borough Hall, Greenwich Dance, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.
GRAVITATIONAL WAVES
In February 2016, an international team of physicists announced the confirmed discovery of Gravitational Waves. Learn more at this illuminating talk. Join Royal Observatory Greenwich Astronomer, Dr Edward Bloom-
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CONTEMPORARY BALLET
“ I am the enemy you killed my friend)”(Wilfred Owen) Light refreshments available from 6;45pm. 7.30 start. Retiring collection for Quaker Peace and Social Witness ,Quakers working for peace on the centenary of World War 1. Blackheath Meeting House, Lawn Terrace SE3 9LL
FRI 7 & 14 OCT BEAVERWOOD CLUB NIGHT
Come and have some fun at the best party in town with DJ Dave Collins. Age restriction 30+. £8 members?£10 non-members. www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road Chislehurst BR7 6HF.
SAT 8 OCT GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB
A 7-mile circular walk in the Ash valley and the Amwell Nature Reserve. Meet at 11am Ware Station. Train direct from Liverpool Street or 1 change from Stratford at Tottenham Hale. Contact Pat Taylor on 020 8305 0669 for details. New members welcome.
TEA DANCE
Live music from The Cosmopolitans and guest singers will feature a range of styles for Ballroom, Latin, Jive and Sequence dancing. A cup of tea and slice of cake is included in the entry price and the bar will be open throughout. 2:00pm - 4:30pm. £5. The Borough Hall, Greenwich Dance, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.
NELSON AND WEST:
When a hero and an artist meet at Old Royal Naval College. A talk exploring stories behind the Nelson Pediment - erected at the Old Royal Naval College in honour of Nelson - on the same month of the Battle of Trafalgar. Both Lord Nelson and the artist Benjamin West are important figures in the Old Royal Naval College’s history, and their meeting was a momentous occasion. 12:00pm - 4:00pm. Free. Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9NN.
NATURE TRAIL ACTIVITY WALK
A family friendly activity walk to discover the insects, animals and plants that live in the grounds of the museum in autumn. 1.45-3.30pm. Adults £5, Child £3 suitable for 5+. www.horniman.ac.uk. Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ.
FIREWORK FANTASY
Bach to Baby concert – Fast as a firework and just as fiery, follow the vivacious violin on its journey from Russia to Romania. Come and hear stories of Indian lament, British boys, and delightful Eastern European dances. 4pm. Purchase tickets from www. bachtobaby.com.. 020 8858 1749. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.
Young Choreographers award winners, Chantry presents their 2016 UK Tour programme with their two original and innovative contemporary ballets, ‘Ulysses Unbound’ and ‘The Stacked Deck’, at the Tramshed Theatre, home of Greenwich & Lewisham’s Young People’s Theatre. Thursday 6 and Friday 7 October at 7pm. Tickets can be ordered at www.glypt.co.uk/shows or by telephone on 0208 854 1316. The Tramshed, 51-53 Woolwich New Road, London SE18 6ES
COME AND SING DAY
Come and sing Carmina Burana by Carl Orff with the Eltham Choral Society. Conductor: Max Barley accompanist: Charles Andrews. Audience £8. 7pm. Eltham Park Methodist Church, Westmount Road, Eltham SE9 1XX.
SUN 9 OCT THE BIG CHARITY 10KM RUN
Pick any charity when you sign up for the run and the donation will be made for you. Entries are limited to 500. 9:30am - 12:30pm. Cost See www.bigcharityrun.com for details. Greenwich Park, Greenwich SE10 8QY
SHANE HAMPSHIER
Performing Sinatra, Bond, Buble and more with his band. 7:00pm. £14/£12 concs. www. bobhopetheatre.co.uk. The Bob Hope Theatre, Wythfield Road, Eltham SE9 5TG.
MON 10 OCT ALL AT SEA: MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS DAY
to the comradery of a happy crew, discover what seafarers can teach us about wellbeing. 11.00am – 3.00pm. Free. National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF.
TUES 11 OCT BACH TO BABY
Classical Concert series for Baby and You founded by concert pianist and mum, Miaomiao Yu. 10.30am. £10. 020 8858 1749. Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR1 1RY. GREENWICH INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY A talk on Eltham by Terry Powley. 7.30pm. Non member £1. The Old Bakehouse (rear of Age Exchange), Bennett Park, SE3. No parking
THURS 13 OCT BACH TO BABY
Classical Concert series for Baby and You. Be amazed at how your child will love Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. 4pm. £10. 020 8858 1749. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.
A day of drop-in activities exploring emotions at sea and on land. From homesickness and cabin fever
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W HAT TO DO W HERE & WH E N FRI 21 OCT BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB
Fifty Shades. Pam Catellow. 2-4pm. £5. Mycenae House, Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.
THE SUPPER ROOM
GREENWICH TOUR GUIDES A WALK ON THE DARK SIDE – HALLOWEEN SPECIAL The original Greenwich ghost tour with tales of murder, mysteries and ghosts. Friday 28, Saturday 29 and Monday 31 October. (Other dates and group bookings can be arranged). £9, Over 15s only. For more information and to book your place call 07575 772 298. www.greenwichtours.co.uk
THURS 13 OCT MAGIC LATE
A night of surprising activities celebrating magic in all its shapes and forms, with mysterious music performances, storytelling around ghosts and the occult, artists inspired by the Horniman’s collection of magical charms, film screenings, food and more. 6.30-9.30pm. £5. Over 18s only. www.horniman. ac.uk. Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ.
LATE DEBATE: BEYOND THE SURFACE
Enjoy an evening of circuit training for the brain, guests will have a choice of a range of interactive debates and workshops, as well as enjoy a bar, music and the London Transport Museum’s latest Designology exhibition. 6.45-10.30pm. £12, £10 concs. 18+ only. Tickets online wwwitmuseum.co.uk. 020 75657298. London Transport Museum,Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB.
SAT 15 OCT ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND
Drawing on the wealth of peculiar episodes from both Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, Box Tale Soup invite you down the rabbit hole into a timeless world of wondrous fantasy. £8.50 Suitable for ages: 4+. 55 mins duration. 020 8463 0100. www.blackheathhalls.co.uk. Recital Room, Blackheath Halls, SE3 9RQ
WED 19 – SAT 22 OCT ROCK OF AGES
A musical production by the Bromley Players featuring smash hits including ‘We built this city’ and many more. 7.45pm. £14.50/£12.50. Matinee performance Sat at 2.30pm. 020 8850 3702. www.bobhopetheatre.co.ukThe Bob Hope Theatre, Wythfield Road, Eltham SE9 5TG.
Art Of Disappearing (sound, visual and movement artists Rachel Champion and Tristan Shorr) share with you The Dinner Dance, an audio instructive eating and moving experience. The Dinner Dance challenges guests to explore taste, sensation and their relationships with other diners at a unique shared dining experience. 8-10.30pm. £25/£20 concs.. The Borough Hall, Greenwich Dance, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.
TRAFALGAR DAY
To commemorate the famous Battle of Trafalgar at which Admiral Lord Nelson was wounded and killed, join our curators as they give ‘live’ updates of the battle throughout the day. Learn about the experience of ordinary sailors and the representation of the battle in art through short talks and tours around the Museum. Finally, give remembrance during a reading of Nelson’s last diary entry and prayer. 12.00noon - 4pm. Free. National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF.
SAT 22 OCT GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB Self-guided walk, no leader. Following the Thames Path from Charlton to Greenwich. Meet at Charlton Station 10.15am. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.
SAT 22 OCT & 5 NOV THE LEARNING LOAF: ONE-DAY COURSES Sourdough bread making courses. Learn how to achieve the ultimate sourdough crust and crumb, taste and texture. You will try many techniques including creating and keeping a healthy leaven, mixing, kneading and shaping the perfect loaf with Graham Penn in his teaching kitchen based in Charlton SE7. 10am-4pm. £125. For more info www.thehonestloaf.co.uk.
MON 24 – SAT 29 OCT THINGS THAT GO SPLASH IN THE NIGHT!
This Halloween, discover deep ocean noises, create creatures that sing strange sounds and learn about sea shanties. Make your very own shipwrecked musical instruments and gather around to hear Madame Swashbuckle’s ghostly tales of watery goings on in a puppet-filled frightfest. Every day. Free. National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF.
WED 26 OCT HRH THE DUKE OF KENT: A LIFE OF SERVICE
Book launch with authors Celia and John Lee. At the time of his 80th birthday on 9 October 2015, the Duke remains one of the busiest members of the royal family. 8pm - 10pm, £10 incls a glass of wine. 020 8463 0100. www.blackheathhalls.co.uk. Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ
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WED 26 – SAT 29 OCT COMEDY THEATRE
The Alexandra Players in The Flint Street Nativity, a cracking comedy by Tim Firth. £9, £8 conc. 8pm. 07867 627 987. Alexandra Hall, Bramshot Ave, Charlton SE7.
THURS 27 OCT BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY A treat: ‘Music by Mozart and his contempories’ illustrated with the sublime voice of our lecturer, Peter Medhurst Refreshments 2pm for 2.30pm. Visitors £7. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3.
FRI 28 OCT GHOST SHIP
Experience the true horror of life at sea with eerie tours of Cutty Sark. Hear the tales of hard labour and tragedy that fell upon the crew during tough voyages on the stormy sea. 7:00pm £25 tickets from www. rmg.co.uk/cutty-sarkCutty Sark, King William Walk,Greenwich SE10 9HT.
SAT 29 OCT ALIEN (1979)
Sci-fi screening of Alien in the Peter Harrison Planetarium. In space, no one can hear you scream. Following the movie there will be a talk from one of our astronomers on the science behind the film. Popcorn, confectionery, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase in the Planetarium foyer before the event. 6.30pm - 9pm. £8 adult, £7 concs, £6 child or guardian. Royal Observatory, Blackheath Avenue, Greenwich SE10 8XJ.
MYSTERY AT THE MUSEUM
The National Maritime Museum’s Director has disappeared along with one of the Museum’s most precious objects! If you think you can handle the Museum after hours, grab a tot of rum to steady your nerves and help us solve the mystery. 6:30-10pm. £15 adult. www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, Greenwich 0SE10 9NF.
RICH HALL: LIVE 2016
Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and the king of rapid-fire wit. This is a comedian who’s plain spoken growling indignation and acerbic observations have an unerring talent for hitting his targets with precision every time, leaving his audience hanging on every word winning him fans all over the globe. 8pm – 10.30pm. £16. . 020 8463 0100. www. blackheathhalls.co.uk. Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.
SAT 29 & SUN 30 OCT HORNIMAN HALLOWEEN FAIR
Fiendish fun at the annual Halloween Fair where you can enjoy the arts and crafts market, fabulous food, plus spooky animal handling and more. Come dressed in your scariest costume. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free. www.horniman.ac.uk. Horniman Museum, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ.
HALLOWEEN WALK
A sponsored spooky walk around Charlton Park in memory of Tom Warren, once a pupil of the RDA. Pick up a sponsor form Charlton RDA, Charlton Park or visit their Facebook page and leave a message. Sunday 30 Oct, 3.30-6.30pm. Refreshments and Halloween fun for all . All proceeds go to Charlton Park Riding for the Disabled.
SUN 30 OCT HALLOWEEN: BERMUDA TRIANGLE
Build your own frankenbeast and much more at this sci-fi themed day of family fun. 11am - 4pm. £10 adult, £6 child. National Maritime Museum. Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF.
MON 31 OCT ENGLISH AND AMERICAN ART SONG
Find out more information and book tickets for Sky Ingram soprano and John Paul Ekins piano. www. blackheathhalls.co.uk. 1.10pm - 2:30pm. Free with a retiring donation to Blackheath Halls. Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ
SAT 5 NOV GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB
A 5-mile linear walk around Battersea Park. Meet at 10.15am Victoria Station, escalator next to platform 14. Contact Paul Weymont on 07973 623 968 for details. New members welcome.
GREENWICH PRINTMAKERS FEATURED ARTISTS Matin Mosssop, 4 Oct – 23 Oct David Bowyer 25 Oct – 13 Nov. Open Tues – Sun, 10am-5.30pm. greenwich-printmakers.co.uk. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ.
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ME RID IA N ART & DESIGN
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The Greenwich Gallery: A Creative Hub “Curating exhibitions in a gallery is an act of tightrope walking. On the one side: entertainment and engagement and on the other: thought provocation and challenge.” Tony Othen, Owner
The Greenwich Gallery, adjacent to the Greenwich Dance Agency, a few hundred yards from Greenwich Theatre and the Fan Museum, is at the epicentre of creative Greenwich. Located in Peyton Place, just off Royal Hill, it presents quality thought-provoking work to local residents and visitors alike. The gallery specialises in photography and is keen to support an exploration of ‘the gallery experience’ in a digital world where more and more visual art is viewed on phones, tablets and laptops. The presentation of a framed image on a white wall with other images allows the viewer to study the image on its own and in the context of others, and in the company of other viewers. Professionally run with a commercial emphasis on value for money for exhibitors (admission is free), The Greenwich Gallery seeks to present themed and thoughtful work that inspires contextual investigation and contemporary application. Challenging the viewer to think has been one of the most satisfactory outcomes of the last five years, as our many testimonials show. An upcoming show, Photo Triggers (October 10th – 31st), will demonstrate the powerful use to which black and white social action photos, taken nearly 50 years ago, can be put in the process of recovering community experiences. Combined with the use of Facebook, these photos generate both reminiscences of a previous Manuel Mathieu present and reflections on the way we live now. The ‘Photo Triggers’ process is also currently being applied in the field of youth and adult education. The Greenwich Gallery, Peyton Place, London SE10 8RS is open Monday - Friday 9.30am – 5.30pm and Saturday and Sunday 12 midday – 4pm (unless otherwise specified). www.thegreenwichgallery.com www.phototriggerpacks.com Helen and Tony Othen can be contacted on 020 8465 5968 and at: thegreenwichgallery@gmail.com
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Moat opens new doors to affordable home ownership in four great locations One, two and three bedroom homes are available now and coming soon across the South East of England. Shared ownership Moat is offering homes for shared ownership sale in four sought-after locations: Brighton, Kidbrooke, Greenwich and Bromley. Sometimes known as part buy, part rent, shared ownership is a Governmentbacked scheme that can help you onto the housing ladder. You buy a percentage share in a brand new home and pay a subsidised rent on the remaining share. It is a secure tenure and, unlike renting, shared owners can customise the internal space of their homes to suit their own tastes. Many shared owners find the costs of shared ownership to be less expensive than renting privately. Specification items such as carpets, white goods and branded kitchen appliances are all included in the share price, enabling first time buyers to
move in without many of the additional costs often associated with starting up a home. A key benefit of shared ownership is that you only need a deposit for the percentage of the home that you are buying. For example, if you buy 25% of a home with a full market value of £250,000, you’ll need to find £6,250 for a 10% deposit (compared to £25,000 for an equivalent 10% deposit on an open market purchase). Some mortgages for shared ownership are also available with just a 5% deposit. Also available across these four areas are a selection of wheelchair accessible homes. These are designed for people with accessibility needs to access and enjoy their homes. Extra space
inside each apartment facilitates turning circles and transfer spaces. In addition there is level access into the front door and around the interior. To allocate these homes, Moat awards priority to those with household members who are registered as disabled. Find out more If you’re interested in buying a home at any of these desirable locations, or if you’d like to find out more about shared ownership, visit moathomes.co.uk. Alternatively, you can contact the New Homes Team at Moat, on 0300 323 0011 or email newhomes@moat.co.uk.
Be the first in the queue for affordable homes Residents, and people who work in Royal Greenwich looking to find a new home can register to be the first to hear about new intermediate homes being built in the borough. An intermediate housing list has been set up, in conjunction with the Mayor of London’s property portal, Share to Buy. Current residents or people who work within the Royal Borough can tick the Greenwich priority service box to ensure they are first to find out about all the new homes available within the borough. Those opted into the Greenwich Priority Service will receive exclusive property alerts and newsletters ensuring they are kept right up to date with new properties in the borough. Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Sustainability Councillor Danny
Thorpe, said: “Greenwich is the fourth largest provider of new dwellings in London and has set out plans to build 25,590 new homes in the borough by 2021, so it is important our residents can be the first to find out more about Manuel Mathieu these new properties.” First steps - affordable housing schemes FIRST STEPS enables anyone looking for an affordable home in London to complete just one application form to access a range of affordable shared ownership and equity loan schemes being marketed in London. It is also possible to find rented accommodation that charges rents that are lower than on the open market. For more information visit www.sharetobuy.com/firststeps or call 0845 230 8099 Who is First Steps for The FIRST STEPS service is for Londoners that are not able to afford to buy or rent good quality accommodation on the open market.
www.meridian-magazine.co.uk
2/11/16