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For more information please visit our website www.kookynohmad.com or follow us on social @kookynohmad
CHRISTMAS
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W I N E & TA PA S Kooky Evenings have arrived. Enjoy our new sharing boards, tapas menu and chefs specials with a glass of wine or cold beer. Every Fri - Sat 5pm - 9pm
MULLED WINE & MINCE PIES Starting from 26th November, available everyday from 12pm
CHRISTMAS B I S C U I T D E C O R AT I N G Everday until Christmas Eve - 4.25per child
Luxury Handmade Aprons
mrpinny.com hello@mrpinny.com
We believe its all about you Treat a special someone to a treatment this festive season
Hush Skin and Beauty is a boutique salon located in one of Royston’s oldest areas. We are dedicated to delivering the finest beauty therapies in a warm, friendly and inviting atmosphere where the most important consideration is you. – Present this advert to receive £5.00 off when receiving a treatment over the value of £40 * – 37 Kneesworth Street, Royston, Herts, SG8 5AB / 01763 249438 / Info@hushskinandbeauty.com * not to be used towards voucher purchases
Treat yourself, we won’t tell…
Discover the latest arrivals from our collections across jewellery, accessories, kids and gifts.
www.sassypeanut.com | @sassypeanutUK
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p08. Entrepreneurial Spirit
p34. The Lodge
Looking at how Lockdown provided an opportunity for some to explore new beginnings, follow dreams or work harder to adapt.
We explore the wide variety of experiences to work, eat and stay, this stunning boutique hotel has to offer.
p10. Local Entrepreneurs
p44. Festive Season
We caught up with some local business owners to find out a little more about their background and entrepreneurial spirit.
Inspiration on local venue’s to get together for a couple of drinks or a bite to eat to celebrate our working relations.
p12. Victoria Eggs Our very own award winning designer creates hand-drawn homeware made in the UK.
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p20. Christmas Gifit
p56. Christmas Trends
Why not skip the hassle of potential online delivery issues and shop local with businesses right on our door step. We’ve curated a selection of the finest gifts on offer!
Christmas trend inspiration from Interior Stylist Celine Bridier.
p54. Festive Spirit
PROPERT Y
p60. Properties Looking for a place to call home? Check out some of the latest properties available in our area.
With the festive season just around the corner, we have been thinking of ways to stay on top, at this time of year
p51. Food & Drink Local award winning chef Brett Barnes shares some festive food ideas with wine pairings from Cambridge Wines Royston
p64. Watch & Listen Stuck on what to watch and listen to next? Let us help!
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p62. Town Trail #04 Throughout our issues we will guide you through Royston’s historical trail.
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When the lockdown hit in early 2020, many either found themselves unemployed or certainly their working role challenged by the pandemic. For some, they waited unsure of what the future held, but for others this proved an opportunity to explore new beginnings, or a chance to follow dreams or work harder to adapt. Whilst some industries folded, others blossomed like the aftermath of a forest fire, with new shoots sprouting up from all directions, leaning towards the light of opportunity. With risks neutralised by government schemes and funding, entrepreneurs grasped the time with both hands, taking their future into their own hands. Motivated to maintain a better work life balance, many have seen the benefits of being closer to home and moving away from the big commute. Under your own agenda the entrepreneur is free to create a much more relaxed and flexible lifestyle. It’s not always rosy and as the ideas grow, you will need to keep moving and changing to adapt to the future, but the destiny is yours.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level? “We have been inspired by so many local businesses where their side hustle and passion has transformed into a thriving business allowing them to go full time. We love spending time and working with new brands and concepts, where they want to take their business to the next level.” Josh Murphy, CEO & Founder Sanders + Jay, Design & Marketing Agency. We caught up with some local business owners to find out a little more about their background and entrepreneurial spirit.
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Kelly Growing up in Royston, I have fond memories of popping into Ladds for penny sweets, Royston Carnival and watching the Queen Mother open the police station. Not to mention a fond love for Days the Bakers who supplied my Dad’s business. I even met my husband whilst we both worked at Mica Hardware in our teens! So when I moved back to Royston and had children, I knew I wanted their roots to be here like mine were. After a career in marketing, working mostly in London agencies I loved being creative, but I wasn’t quite ready to give up marketing yet! So I worked for C4B Media in Royston. I always loved baking since I was a child. I would also go on courses with a group of friends just for fun too. It wasn’t until two friends asked me to make their wedding cakes that I decided to start the business. I knew I wanted to collaborate with local businesses, use local suppliers and get involved with the community whenever I could. Supplying cupcakes to Kooky Nohmad at the weekends is something I really enjoy. I’m also frequently at lots of local wedding venues including Burloes Hall, Sheene Mill and South Farm setting up wedding cakes for my lovely couples. I have recently returned to Royston Market each month too, which I love so much. My aim is to always evolve the business yet to be consistent with the quality of my bakes too. I love nothing more than hearing what my customers like and running lots of giveaways on my social media for product testers!
Michelle
Josh Following a seasoned career in FMCG Brand Marketing, it was with the introduction of my family that I decided that I wanted to go it alone and be closer to home. Firstly I created Sanders + Jay, Design and Marketing Agency specialising in Website and Graphic Design, however we needed a HQ. Having felt isolated working from home, along with the need for a relaxed collaboration space, I decided to create Kooky Nohmad, now a multi award winning coffee shop with flexible facility for co-working and at the heart of our local community. Most recently, Sanders & Jay have launched STONES Magazine, aiming to provide a platform for our local clients and further community to showcase the best of what Royston and the surrounding area has to offer, whilst simultaneously demonstrating our design capabilities.
I’m a Mum on maternity leave with a dream of carving a path in the art world. My longer-term goal is to work for myself earning a living doing something I truly love, and with that having the option to work more flexibly around my family. After graduating from Loughborough University with a BA hons degree in Fine Art I was guilty of downing tools for a while as I focussed on a separate career path but when furloughed during lockdown it was a chance to put paint to canvas once again and now I’m not looking back. Since my son was born in January I have been making nap times and evenings count and I have produced a series of work including portrait paintings of iconic people from the film/music industry. Painting a face doesn’t have to be in flesh tones, I love working with colour and my work often includes vibrant tones and the use of neon brights to make my paintings pop. I try to be bold to create something a bit more stylised. As well as colour I loved exploring texture by layering paint, and using brushes and palette knives to make marks. I often incorporate the use of drips, splats and scratches to build interest across the canvas. I’m thrilled to work in collaboration with Kooky Nohmad café in the high street where you can find my work displayed/for sale. It has been an amazing platform for my work to be visible within the town so please do go and take a look and let me know your feedback.
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Philippa I felt compelled to set up Neo & Nessa after wasting far too much money on an ugly baby changing bag. The cutesy pattern screamed ‘mama’ louder than my baby and I despised it from the moment of purchase - I couldn’t wait to gleefully bin it after the dreaded potty-training stage. It was not just the look of the baby bag that got me down, but the annoyance that I still had to take a separate handbag out with me to house my mummy items. This was the inspiration for creating a detachable baby bag. A mum has many roles and I wanted to design a bag that could adapt with the day’s demands. Value for money and longevity is also important and a baby bag shouldn’t become obsolete as the child grows up. Taking this into consideration, I incorporated a versatile layout within the design. In fact, a lot of my customers have older children and use their Neo & Nessa bag for work, travel or as a regular tote. The journey from establishing the business to trading has been slower than planned. It took me two years to earn the money for my first production run, and the company launch got delayed due to being scammed by a website developer. Fortunately, I’ve overcome this difficult stage and have now designed and ordered the first run of my backpack range. These bags will feature the same detachable clutch as the totes. The entrepreneurial path is never smooth but as long as you’re adaptable and never give up, you’ll succeed.
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Jess & Will We are Jess Esa and Will Heath, the co-founders of Books and Bao: a culture blog with a focus on travel, world literature, food, and art. As freelance writers, we have been published in New Scientist, Fodors, IGN, The Culture Trip, and many others. After meeting at a job interview, our work as teachers took us around the UK, then across the world to China, Korea, and Japan. Teaching in these countries gave us a love for their languages, cuisines, history, and literature. Our experiences sparked the urge to write about the cultures we had fallen in love with. After leaving teaching, we set ourselves up as full-time bloggers, freelancers, and copywriters living on the road. The digital nomad life led us across the US, then to Northern and Eastern Europe, before returning us to the UK. Now based in Royston, we explore and write about the local area. Books and Bao was born in Korea, and is now a proud champion of world literature, queer writers, and indie publishers. Even our travel content leans on the literary and culinary history of every city we explore. While we’ve written about many different places — from Norway to Vietnam — our hearts remain in Japan and the UK. When we aren’t working on Books and Bao, we write about travel, food, books, and Japanese culture. We also write copy on everything from business and finance to personal blogs.
Neil Hi, I’m Neil Wise and I live locally in Fowlmere and own and run Ensum Brown Estate Agents in Royston, which we run from Kooky Nohmad coffee shop on the high street in Royston; a place I always remember as Woolworths where I would buy my pick and mix from when I was a kid. I have to look elsewhere for that these days. I opened Ensum Brown in Royston and within 4 months we became the leading local agent, selling more homes in SG8 for now 11 consecutive months and counting. But it’s been a long journey, I do hate that word though. I started in Estate agency at the age of 21 and at the age of 25 opened my first estate agency office in St Ives, Cambridgeshire. After many years of opening offices around Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, and closing a few as there’s been some great lessons from many mistakes over the years, I’m now surrounded by a fantastic team of 18 and growing. My team and I believe in keeping the customer our central focus and believe in marginal gains, looking to continuously improve in every aspect of what we do.
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HOMEWARE G R O W N T A L E N T Our very own award winning designer Victoria Eggs creates hand-drawn homeware made in the UK. All of her designs are snapshots of special moments in time we wish to cherish forever and gift to those we love most.
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Top left: Santa’s Sleigh Collection Santa’s Sleigh Apron - £22 Santa’s Sleigh Tea Towel - £12 Santa’s Sleigh Mug - £12.50 London Christmas Plate - £20 Bottom left: London Skyline Mug - £12.50 London Bus Bauble - £16 London Icons Gift Wrap - £2.95 London Bus Wooden Decoration - £4.95 Bottom right: London Christmas Mug - £12.50 London Christmas Tea Towel - £12 London Skyline Jug - £18.50 London Christmas Set of 4 Coasters - £16.50 Above: London Icons Gift Wrap - £2.95 London Bus and Taxi Wooden Decoration - £4.95
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Local designer, Victoria Eggs, has received international press coverage with her products, which are stocked in over 300 retailers in the UK and around the world, including well-known stores such as Harrods, Waterstones, Scribbler, Selfridges, Paperchase and Whole Foods. Victoria graduated from Birmingham Institute of Art & Design in 2005 with a BA in Fine Art. Soon after she moved to Sydney, Australia designing T-shirt graphics for iconic fashion brand, Ben Sherman. It was then that Victoria became fascinated by the British imagery she was drawing and realised how many wonderful memories they brought to life, including exploring the woodlands and wildlife that surrounded her growing up in Royston. When Victoria returned home to the UK, she decided to develop her own designs capturing these special moments: the buzz and excitement of visiting London as a small child; the unmistakable smell of fish and chips at the seaside; the simple joy of licking the spoon when baking cakes with her young daughter and the pure delight and magic that fills the air at Christmas. Victoria screen printed the first designs onto tea towels and began selling them at markets in March 2011, ten years ago! She now works with manufacturers and family run businesses throughout the UK who skilfully produce her heartfelt gifts. Victoria is passionate about manufacturing locally, being socially conscious, using environmentally friendly practices, sustainable supply chains and recyclable packaging. She’s driven by a desire to bring more of the heart into the home.
www.victoriaeggs.com ig: victoriaeggs / fb: @VictoriaEggs
h C y p p Ha
s a m t s i hr From us all at Ensum Brown, Royston
Visit: ensumbrown.com • Call: 01763 75 00 00 • Follow us on Facebook @EnsumBrownRoyston
Life’s too short to drink bad wine Your local award-winning independent wine & spirit merchant. From everyday wine to top Bordeaux, craft beer, gin, whisky & other spirits. Call in for expert advice and top service.
34b Kneesworth St, Royston, SG8 5AB
Christmas Festival Sunday 21st November: £5.00 Apéritif: Find your perfect pre-dinner treat Sunday 28th November: £5.00 Christmas Dinner: Discover your ultimate pairing Sunday 5th December: £5.00 Dessert Course: Sweet treats and delicious delights Sunday 12th December: £5.00 Cheese Course: It’s not all about Port, discover something new Sunday 19th December: £5.00 Digestif: Postprandial perfection to complete your Christmas Day Wednesday 22nd December - Free! The Big Day is almost upon us: Mince Pies, Mulled Wine & Music
Email: royston@cambridgewine.com Telephone: 01763 247076
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Men’s Bracelet & Watch HC JEWELLERS
Fred Bennet Skinny Stainless Steel Brown Leather Magnetic Bracelet £24 Omega Constellation Watch (Preowned) £1650
Tis’ The Season For many, last Christmas was spent alone and this year you will be hoping for less disruption where you can experience that well earned family time together. The festive season is steeped in tradition, where we get some time off to celebrate with our loved ones, sip on some mulled wine, tuck into the turkey, whilst exchanging carefully thought out gifts for our loved ones. With potential difficulties of deliveries you could always look at venturing into our local businesses right on your door step. “It is in giving that we receive” When has it been more important to show those close to you how much you love them with a thoughtful gift? Look no further… Shop local, support our community! Take a look through our selection of Royston’s finest gifts on offer!
Colour In Cooshie WWW.SELFIECLOTHING.CO.UK
Unicorn Bff Colour In Cooshie With Fabric Pens £44
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Tranquillity Kit HUSH SKIN & BEAUTY
Black Leather Shoulder Bag WWW.SASSYPEANUT.COM
Personalised Black Leather Shoulder Bag £50
Hand-drawn homewares WWW.VICTORIAEGGS.COM
Simply London Mug £12.50 Big Smoke Mug £12.50 London Icons Gift Wrap £2.95
An aromatic value saving bath and body kit that includes the iconic Tranquillity Body Cream and Tranquillity Shower Gel. With Sweet Orange, Cedarwood, Damascus Rose, Geranium and Sandalwood, the aromatic essential oils promote an immediate sensation of mind and body relaxation. £40
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Silver Earrings HC JEWELLERS
Silver Cubic Zirconia Stud Earrings: £18 Silver Small Hoops: £15
Personalised Aprons MRPINNY.COM
Children’s from £16.99 Adults from £32.99 Mini Me Apron Set £60 (Adults & Kids Set)
Gin Tasting Set WWW.INHOUSETASTING.COM
Enjoy a selection of five premium artisanal gins in a tasting experience hosted by James Grant, Distiller and Founder of Copper in the Clouds Distillery, Hertfordshire. Rum, Whisky, Tequila & Sherry Tastings also available from - £35
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Stylish Clothing KISSES, ROYSTON - AVAILABLE IN STORE
Leopard print dress - £40 Red Cuckoo black mock crock - £30 Costume Jewellery (Handmade) - £15
Handmade Jewellery WWW.NOKODESIGNS.COM
This set includes: Sterling Silver Hamsa Hand Bracelet - £28 Sterling Silver Small Star Charm Bracelet - £25 Sterling Silver & Hematite Bracelet - £24 Sterling Silver Large Star Charm Bracelet -£28 Sterling Silver 3D Star Charm Bracelet - £25 Sterling Silver Heart Bracelet - £28 Can be bought individually or receive a reduction in price for buying the set at: £135
Healthy Pet Treats NATURALLY HEALTHY PET - ONLINE & IN STORE
Pet toys and treats from - £1.95 - £11.70
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PORTRAITS . PETS . WEDDINGS HELLO@GARETHJPHOTOGRAPHY.COM 07730 572 130 \ WWW.GARETHJPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
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Golf Putting Aid SHOWMETHELINE.CO.UK
Learn to read the greens like a pro with Show Me The Line Putt Reader and make those all important putts. £19.99
Art Prints MICHELLEHENDERSONART.COM
Enjoy a range of art prints and products featuring the artwork of Michelle Hendersons portraits of music and film icons. Prints from £60 Printed Products from £10
Personalised Keychain WWW.SASSYPEANUT.COM
Personalised Keyrings: From £15
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Kids Personalised Denim Jackets WWW.ONFLICK.CO.UK
Personalised Kids Denim Jackets, over 150 patches to choose from. - £40 Receive 10% off with code STONES10
Bella Vita AVAILABLE IN STORE
Xmas decorations - from £5 Katie Loxton clutch - £18 Star Knitwear - £38
Reusable Coffee Cup KOOKY NOHMAD - AVAILABLE IN STORE
Keep topping up again and again with Royston’s multi award winning coffee shop reusable cups. £10.99
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Men’s Grooming BURY LANE FARM SHOP
Cosmetic Bag WWW.VICTORIAEGGS.COM
Wildlife in Spring Cosmetic Bag £17.50
100 Things I Love About Cambridge United WWW.CUFCDIRECT.COM
A Quality hardback featuring full-page colour photographs and a foreword by Nick Hornby £14.99
The Scottish Fine Soaps Company Men’s Well Groomed Gift Set comprising of Eau de Toilette (50ml), Hair & Body Wash (75ml) and Aftershave Balm (75ml). Charismatic, contemporary, masculine fragrance. £26.99
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Mirage diamond pendant 0.32cts with yellow gold HC JEWELLERS
£900
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V-Neck Tiered Mini Dress WWW.PENTLEBAYCLOTHING.COM
This feminine and flattering mini dress has a v-neck line, buttons to the waist and a tiered hem. The full length sleeves have a shirred cuff and the dress has in-seam pockets. Perfect for the party season and beyond. Team with tights and boots for an effortless daytime look. £35
House of Marbles BURY LANE FARM SHOP
For young and old alike, classic games, ‘make-it’ kits and stocking fillers. £12.99
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Leave a little sparkle wherever you go this Christmas.
Shop local this Christmas and find the perfect gift for your family, friends or loved ones from family run, HC Jewellers Royston.
istmas Merry Chr , Carla a n n a H m o fr and Aaron x 8 High St, Royston, SG8 9AG | +44(0)1763 244 705
Join us by our roaring fire for a festive meal with all the trimmings
Christmas Party Menu 2 Courses £30 | 3 courses £35
Starters Poached pear salad, Cashel Blue, chicory, hazelnuts & mulled wine Smoked salmon tartare, soft-boiled quail’s egg, pickled cucumber & fresh soda bread Merryfield Farm duck & ham hock terrine, quince sauce & sourdough toast Cromer crab on toast, chive mayonnaise, samphire & Bloody Mary dressing
Mains Free-range Holly Farm turkey breast, pigs in blankets, crispy potatoes, sprouts, chestnuts & bread sauce Roasted beef, cheek croquette, smoked bone marrow and port gravy (£2 supplement) Tandoori monkfish tail, split pea “daal”, raita & samphire pakora Bubble & squeak, crispy duck’s egg, spiced carrot puree & mustard sauce
Desserts Traditional Christmas pudding, brandy custard, crystallised ginger & vanilla cream Clementine posset, drunken fruits & cinnamon shortbread fingers Hot chocolate pudding, Bailey’s ice cream & sugared almonds British artisan cheese board, oatcakes & fruit chutney (£2 supplement)
For bookings email contact@foxandhoudsbarley.com
High Street, Barley, Royston, SG8 8HY 01763 802 505, www.foxandhoundsbarley.com @foxhoundsbarley
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Welcome to The Lodge, Duxford. A relaxed and friendly haven situated on the outskirts of Cambridge, steeped in history, offering a wide variety of experiences to work, eat and stay at this stunning boutique hotel. The Lodge has been renovated and revived even beyond its original glory, whilst acknowledging it’s history and heritage to the great British leader, Winston Churchill who regularly stayed there during the war, with every room featuring unique artwork of the famous V for Victory. For a boutique hotel The Lodge has so much to offer with a variety of amenities and activities to keep you entertained. Whether it’s for a mid-morning coffee or brunch, a cocktail in the bar, fine dining in the evening or a short stay to enjoy all of the above and everything in between.
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or post ride refreshment – they have a bike rack with locks which is visible from the courtyard too. Their menu changes regularly so you’ll know that you always have something exciting to look forward to. If you can’t stay to enjoy, no problem! Graze café have a takeaway option too so you can enjoy the delicious treats whilst on the go! For the more traditional experience, the dining room is full of class and sophistication, located at the heart of the hotel, where food is served all day long. There is a range of delicious options to suit every mood and fancy from sunrise to sundown. If you are looking for a little something special, make sure you turn up on a Sunday where the mouth-watering Sunday Lunch is a thing of beauty. For us, the best part about The Lodge is the opportunity to cater for so many occasions and moods, where you can evolve your visit by transitioning from the different settings throughout the day. Start with pre-drinks in Churchill’s bar then retire to the Snug lounge, The Lodge is just waiting to shape your fancy. Making plans for the festive season? The Lodge have put together Christmas packages which will suit everyone. Whether that be for a works Christmas party, dinner with friends or a family meal on Christmas Day, it’s definitely worth taking a look at their brochures which are available on their website www.thelodgeduxford.com
Eat
‘Nothing brings people together like good food,’ and that is exactly what you’ll get at The Lodge, as you have a choice of locations to enjoy a nice meal and a glass of a little something extra. There are a variety of dining options which are complemented by a beautifully balanced menu, starting with olives and bread, to grilled meats and chef ’s seasonal creations, so it has something for all food enthusiasts. Over the last few months the team at The Lodge certainly haven’t wasted any time and have added to their offering with a new Tipi covering the beautiful garden courtyard and with the addition of a Glasshouse dining village for a private dining experience. These steel framed, luxury dining pods, give you the great outdoors, but with the luxury of cover for our unpredictable British weather. So if you are looking for more intimate dining perhaps for a special occasion, team meeting or small gathering, the Glasshouses provide the perfect setting for up to eight people. Each pod is heated and has a Sonos speaker allowing you to choose the music, it makes for something special to look forward too and take any risk away from being left out in the cold. Coffee catch up or light bite? If you are just looking for a quick coffee catch up or light bite, you can wander down to the Graze café, where you can find delicious homemade cakes, shakes, light lunch options and more. A keen spot for cyclists, Graze café’s location is ideal for a pit-stop
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Work If you are looking for an alternative to your usual office space, The Lodge has a solution for you. Swap your usual office environment for a creative and stylish one. Whether you’re a freelance professional working from a laptop or looking to hold a group meeting in one of the event spaces, the environment in and around The Lodge is definitely ready to provide you with inspiration. Need a private meeting? The Lodge has meeting rooms available with the latest conference technology in their smart meeting room with enough space for up to 40 people. Perfect for whatever your business needs are. They also have an option to use their smaller meeting room, The Snug. The Lodge can even cater food for your meeting if you require!
Swap your usual office environment for our creative and stylish one Any questions? Don’t be shy. 01223 755 677 hello@thelodgeduxford.com The Lodge Duxford, Ickleton Rd, Duxford, CB22 4RT
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The Lodge have an elegant range of bedrooms which include many bespoke details to make your stay even more special. Make yourself at home in boutique style bedrooms. With package deals available, it make the perfect spot whether you stay for just the night, or longer… The Lodge can also help you plan the perfect event, with lots of space for entertaining, it makes the perfect venue for any events. From birthday parties or even to be part of the special day to say ‘I do’ take a look at The Lodge, Duxford.
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Love your bathroom
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01763 250819 . james@wetstones.co.uk . www.wetstones.co.uk Unit 5a . Highfields Business Park . Old North Rd . Royston . SG8 5JT
Work Way at Upton
Bookable meeting rooms available now *membership not required workway-upton.com 01763 295 290 reception@workway-upton.com
Flexi co-working in Royston Lucie Milton Photography
We wish you a
Happy Christmas Hertfordshire based Design and Marketing agency, provide creative design services to elevate your brand beyond the competition. We help businesses create big ideas that inspire people and engage their clients or consumers to buy into their product or service. We invest time in getting to know a business from the inside out, so that we completely understand your message and vision which allows us to deliver outstanding visuals.
www.sandersandjay.com | @sandersandjay
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It’s Party Season Many plans have been put on ice for big company celebrations, but I think we can all agree that it will be nice to have a get together for a couple of drinks or a bite to eat to celebrate our working relations. Whether it’s a team thank you or a client appreciation, if you have made it through the last couple of years there is more than likely someone deserving of an invite as it has not been an easy ride!
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Drink The Old Courthouse Visit The Old Courthouse offering a selection of cocktails, wines and premium beers. Perfect for date night drinks or a festive catch up with your friends. Fish Hill, Royston
The Orator
Venturing out of town for the first time in a while? Why not try The Orator, a stunning new brasserie and bar in a historical setting, located down near the river. Round Church Street, Cambridge
Hermitage Rd.
Set in an impressive former ballroom in the heart of Hitchin, Hermitage Rd Bar & Restaurant offers exciting food with added theatre from the open kitchen. 20–21 Hermitage Rd, Hitchin
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Eat The British Queen This quaint traditional pub in the beautiful village of Meldreth is well stocked with a wide range of spirits, including a popular gin menu, fine wines and a host of regularly changing guest ales. 94 High St, Meldreth
The Red House
Set on the outskirts of Longstowe, previously an old coaching inn built in 1799, The Red House is very popular with diners offering a traditional menu with a modern twist. Old North Rd, Longstowe
The Banyers A welcoming bar, restaurant and hotel in the centre of Royston, serving a seasonal Mediterranean inspired menu. Enjoy dinner and drinks under the stars in their heated, fairy lit outdoor area or for a personal dining experience try the garden OakPod’s. Melbourn Street, Royston
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and Celebrate Wine tasting with Cambridge Wine & No.41 Looking for some pre-lunch tipples and evening night caps over the Festive season. Join Cambridge Wine Royston to get inspired. Wed 15 Dec 2021, 18:00 - 20:30 41 Kneesworth St, Royston
Wine & Tapas at Kooky Nights Wine and Tapas anyone? Having made quite a splash in Royston since opening just over a year ago, Kooky has now extended its offering to fine wine & tapas perfect for date night or festive fun with family and friends. Every Friday and Saturday - 5-9pm 42 High St, Royston
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at Bury Lane
A Taste of Christmas Thursday 2nd December, 12pm - 7pm No tickets required, just drop in and meet our suppliers
Orders welcomed for Turkeys, Meat, Fish, Cheese, Deli, Fruit, Veg & Hampers A10 Melbourn Bypass, Melbourn, Royston, Herts SG8 6DF . 01763 260418
Superb selection of Gifts, Food & Drink Christmas Lunch in our Farm Shop Cafe
Late Night Shopping
Christmas Shop & Christmas Trees
Available on Tuesday 14th, Sunday 19th and Tuesday 21st December, 12noon 3pm (or until sold out) £15.95 per person We regret bookings cannot be made
We are open until 8pm on Thursdays 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd December. See our social media and website for Christmas Opening Hours
Visit our magical Christmas Shop for decorations, lights and artificial trees. Fresh cut, potted and pot grown Christmas trees & fresh wreaths from late November
customerservices@burylanefarmshop.co.uk . www.burylanefarmshop.co.uk
The best your pet can get, naturally. Raw food & Pet products, visit our local store today.
Naturally Healthy Pet Professional Canine & Feline Nutrition Support. Natural Diet, Treats & Healthcare. 2H, The Wireless Station, Royston, SG8 5JH 01763 247 929 - www.naturallyhealthypet.co.uk
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Food & Drink We caught up with Head Chef, Brett Barns from Michelin Star recommended Fox and Hounds Barley and Kirby Bryant from multi-award winning wholesale and retailer, wine merchant based in Royston for some festive food and wine suggestions over the holidays. Christmas time is better together.
Baked, truffled Tunworth cheese with crispy baguette & pickles This delicious festive dish works beautifully as a sharing starter or a cheese course on the big day. The fresh truffle adds an extra level of extravagance to an already decedent dish. Serve with your favourite pickles to cut through the richness.
Wine Pairing
La Croix Gratiot Pinot Noir, Les Zazous 2019, Pays D’Oc £15.99
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Oak smoked salmon, fluffy potato pancakes & horseradish cream Perfect festive appetiser or canapé when you are entertaining with your family and friends this Christmas. Simple to prepare and always looks impressive when served on a beautiful platter.
Wine Pairing
Château Rives Blanques Odyssée Chardonnay 2019, Limoux £15.99
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Roasted figs with Pedro Ximinez, lemon verbena & clotted cream This dessert takes 5 minutes to prepare yet looks and tastes so sophisticated. Perfect for entertaining, when you’ve spent long enough slaving over a hot stove.
Food: Brett Barnes, Head Chef at Fox and Hounds, Barley Wine: Cambridge Wines Royston For more infomation on all our food and drink pairings, please visit www.stonesmagazine.com/blog
Wine Pairing
Gonzalez Byass Noe 30 Year Old Pedro Ximénez £24.99
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F E ST I V E
SP I R I T
F E S T I V E
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With the festive season just around the corner, we have been thinking of ways to stay on top, at this time of year to ensure the holiday season, associated with ‘love’, ‘happiness’, ‘giving’ and ‘sharing’, isn’t at the at the expense of you. It’s a great time for celebrations and an amazing opportunity to take a well-deserved break at the end of a long and busy year. However, for some, if not managed carefully, can quickly become full of stress, pressure and tears, in the pursuit of the‘perfect’ Christmas. After the past year or so, there is a huge temptation to go all or nothing, but be careful and make sure it doesn’t come at the cost of 2022 and beyond. Health and wellbeing as a subject has rightly had a lot more focus in recent times, however during the festive season, can sometimes be overlooked. With presents, food, parties, late nights, family dynamics, and financial burdens, Christmas can be stressful. Don’t let Christmas be physically or mentally draining; let’s celebrate and embrace this time together, as no number of gifts can replace love and self-worth.
Bigger is not always best
Eat Well & Exercise
Shop Local
Set Budgets
Be Selective
Stay Focused
If we can take just one thing from the time we spend together in the early days of the pandemic, you don’t have to think big to find happiness; the smaller more thoughtful gifts and time together can be even more rewarding. It is easy to click a button online but take the time to go on an adventure into your local community and choose a gift with meaning and care. The time spend together choosing the right gift can be a wonderful time together. Don’t try to please everyone and be everywhere. After so long apart, we are all trying to catch up with family and friends but be selective and make sure you don’t run out of steam, not allowing yourself to unwind and spend quality time with the ones you love.
We all like to indulge in a little treat over the holidays but tryt o find a balance; eat well, stay active to combat those treats and don’t let it spiral out of control.
Is it worth it? Find perspective! By setting realistic budgets that are affordable you can try to manage your spending.
Focus on having an empowered mindset and be aware of your decisions and thoughts. Stay focused on what really matters –and it’s usually not the material things!
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Christmas Trends Are you more excited than usual for Christmas this year? Christmas 2020 saw us all at home unable to see family and friends due to the pandemic restrictions. This year we are making up for lost time & I believe that Christmas 2021 will be an extra special celebration. Do you want to lift the spirit? Add something magical, something unique? Who doesn’t? Christmas is a special time, full of wonder and light. For me, as an interior stylist, to create this magical atmosphere is to combine textures, colours, lights, smells, tastes, memories and expectations…
Traditional Christmas Classic red, gold and green colours are always in style! Because we now can celebrate with loved ones and 2020 has been such a challenging year, 2021 will be a very traditional Christmas with all the classic trimmings.We all have the need for the traditions of the past! A big tree with lots of family’s old precious ornaments and lights. Christmas stockings on the mantel.
2021 offers a great variety of Christmas themes that will help you rediscover the joy and excitement of our childhood towards this holiday.
The traditional Christmas table will be dressed with layers of white porcelain plates (your precious grandmother’s ones). Golden cutlery makes Christmas dinner even more special and do not forget crystal glasses set in order of use!
Rustic Craft Christmas
Add the finishing touches to your Christmas table with beautiful napkin rings, chic candleholders and a floral centrepiece.
As Christmas 2020 lacked friends & family, an emphasis this year will be on decors that bring people together. 2020 has been the DIY year. The country became a nation of crafters and Christmas is the perfect time to hang homemade decorations around the house. Group crafting sessions haven proven a very popular social way to create unique decorations. Offered as gifts or to put it in your own home, glamorous decorations will switch to a more subtle, stripped back, country style this year using mostly natural materials made from wood, feathers, pinecones and even dried fruit.
White Christmas Dreaming of a white Christmas? A key trend in 2021 is a snowy white colour palette paired with a minimalistic design. Faux snow, white blanket, white faux fur rug next to the fire and classic glass ornaments are always a great choice when it comes to introducing additional magic to your Christmas decorations. Bring the snowy look from your Christmas tree into the dining room with quality china tableware, crystal glasses, white/gold or green velvet ribbon, faux fur accessories on the dining chairs will add texture. Think white candles and a
centrepiece composed of birch and evergreen branches. The contemporary simplicity and sophistication of a white Christmas decor will create elegance entwined with a nostalgic touch.
Pastel Christmas This trend that started last year remains strong in 2021, it comprises of a soft palette of colours such as blush, pink, warm neutrals, rose gold, silver and gold. A neutral faux fur rug under the tree will create texture, warmth and comfort for the kids to open the presents on Christmas day. Metal decorations are still sparkling but less shiny, softer with a natural looking ageing. Your Christmas ornaments should be composed of glass baubles (teal, blush, champagne, aged gold), feathers and artificial or satin flowers will add some volume and definition. This pastel trend comes from a story about magical and imaginary beings and lands should be continued on to your tablescape. Two tone white and blush table clothes, mint colour china, crystal glasses, gold candle holders, diamond printed placemats, feather napkins are all great accessories. Do not forget the angels, fairies and birds. This Christmas decorating idea is perfect to use if you want to create a calming look in your home. Calming, yet luxurious and special.
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Celine’s top tips for keeping your decorations looking elegant In order to keep your Christmas decorations elegant, it is important to choose a theme and to bring it from the front door, through to the Christmas tree and on to the dining table. As well as finding the Christmas ornaments and decors of your dreams, you might also want to consider looking for combinations that complement the rest of the room and help you convey an elegant magical feel… rather than a garish explosion of colours and contrasting styles! Consistency of colours, textures, shapes and materials will make it unique and chic. Select the types of Christmas Ornaments & decorations you want and choose only 2/3 styles in order to avoid a messy cluttered feel. Define the Material you want to use for your elegant Christmas decorations. The right one for you will depend on the feeling that you are trying to convey. Glass, porcelain, crystal, metal, wood and velvet fabric will always be associated to refined and stylish decors.
Celine’s advice for dressing a Christmas table At Christmas the dining table is where we all gather around to exchange laughter and eat delicious home cooked food! It is important that you create an inviting & elegant table that will make your guests in awe. But how to create the perfect Christmas dinner table setting? Look at the room, the colours and the theme you choose for this Christmas. Then consider what you want to achieve based on the menu. Select pieces such as classic china tableware that you can layer to fit the theme you have in mind and build up the table setting from there. Coordinate the colours of your dinner service and glassware. Cutlery should be elegant, classical and simple. Always lay your plates, glassware and cutlery in order of use. A fine tablecloth, large napkins with napkin rings or velvet ribbons, a chic centre piece composed of fresh flowers, natural elements such as Holly, Pinecones and white Helleborus and candles will offer quality and sophistication to your table. Less is more! Be detail-oriented, define your style, create balance and harmony.
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When/why is it worth calling in Celine Bridier to style your home this festive season? Do you want to welcome friends and family into your home and surprise them with an elegant décor and/or table setting? Let me help you to create a beautiful, stylish and welcoming festive atmosphere. As an Interior stylist “I’m dedicated to creating beautiful, yet versatile spaces tailored to your needs & style.” I will help you to create the magic of Christmas inside your house from classic Christmas tree designs, themed interior decorations & luxurious tablescapes. Front door, porch, banisters, fire places & mantels can all be decorated with ornaments and festive floral arrangements.
It is amazing how just a few little touches can quickly transform your space giving a “Je ne sais quoi! “ No worries if you don’t own any suitable decorations, plates or tableware as it is my role & pleasure to source the pieces that suit your style, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the magic of Christmas. It is never too early to think about Christmas and I would welcome the opportunity to learn more about your plans either online or in-person (regulations allowing). Let me draw out your desires and pull together your unique Christmas decor setting!
Céline x
www.celinebridier.com / ig: celinebridier_stylist Words by: Céline Bridier Photography by: Steve Brickles
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Tavern Close, Royston
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HOM E
North Hall Farm Cottages
Police Row, Therfield, Royston
£585,000
£525,000
£1,250,000
A brand new four bedroom semi detached home on the outskirts of Royston Town Centre. The property offers ample accommodation with an open plan kitchen/diner, ensuite to Master Bedroom and built in appliances. Internal viewing is highly recommended.
This generous three bedroom period detached house at the entrance of North Hall Farm en route to Heydon. The property consists of three double bedrooms, family bathroom, kitchen, Dining Room, Lounge, WC, and office. The house benefits from a generous private garden and a large double garage, nestled a short walk from Flint Cross with it’s country pub and convenience store this property offers convenient country living. Royston train station is 10 minutes away with trains to London Kings Cross in 38 minutes and Cambridge in 13 minutes.
An extremely attractive, spacious and well-proportioned five bedroom detached family home situated close to the centre of this pretty North Hertfordshire village. The property has been extremely well-maintained throughout and early internal viewing is strongly recommended.
Marshalls 01763 24 77 88
Abode 01763 25 98 88
William H Brown 01763 24 29 88
S TON E S
Newell Close, Arrington
P ROP E RT Y
Palace Gardens, Royston
61
12 Eastfield Road, Royston
£550,000
Guide Price £1,250,000 – 1,300,000
£900,000
Tucked away is a quiet cul-de-sac location, this well presented fourbedroom house borders the Wimpole Hall National Trust. Located in Arrington you are within proximity to the mainline train station where you can travel to Cambridge and London easily.
Walnut Tree House is a substantial attractive family home surrounded by beautiful established grounds with a predominately Southerly aspect within the highly desirable Palace Gardens in the heart of this Historic Hertfordshire Town. The plot is approximately a third of an acre with the gardens wrapping around the house to the front, side and rear creating a wonderful feeling of seclusion and privacy.
Ensum Brown are delighted to offer for sale this, 5 double bedroom, significantly extended detached home with immaculately presented accommodation in excess of 2000sq ft. Situated on a plot approaching a fifth of an acre with a detached outbuilding in this highly desired residential area.
Archer Peers 01763 23 23 23
Ensum Brown 01763 75 00 00
This property boasts a fully equipped kitchen with a separate dining area, a lounge with French doors to the rear garden, a fireplace with log burning stove with brick surrounded and double-glazed windows, a ground floor W/C and a double garage with access to the rear garden. Thomas Morris 01763 24 33 31
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The next stop on the Royston trail is the Royse Stone and the crossroads, which were once connected to the highstreet. Weighing in at two tonnes, the Royston Rock is centrally located at the heart of Royston at the cross. Dating back to the Ice Age, it is thought to have formed the base of a wayside cross set up here by Lady Roisia soon after 1066. The settlement, which grew up around the nearby Priory, became known as Crux Roheyes (Roisia’s Cross), later Roisia’s Town, from which the name Royston is derived. Looking to your left across the street, the two narrow roads are very typical of a medieval market town; this is where the original location for market stalls would have been. Carry on walking up the road and you reach Upton House, once the home of the brewer at the adjacent Phillips’ Brewery. Now it houses Work Way at Upton; an boutique co working space.
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Elf
Home Alone
2003 / PG / 1H 37M
1990 / PG / 1H 43M
It’s that time of year again, when we re-watch all the Christmas classics. This has to be up there as one of the best. Starring Will Ferrel as Buddy the Elf, an orphan who was raised in the North Pole and travels to NYC to find his biological father. Initially denying his existance and in need of some Christmas cheer, they soon help each other out in more ways than one. Seeing New York for the first time and through the eyes of an Elf, this film is full of joy and laughter from start to finish.
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without watching this family classic. Disney have just released the newest version of the movie franchise, but nothing can compare to the original. When Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) wishes his family would disappear, his wish comes true and he wakes up to find he has been left ‘home alone’! He soon learns to take care of himself and defend his house from a couple of festive criminals looking to break into his home. Setting a number of hilarious and clever booby traps he out smarts the criminals and escapes safe and sound just in time for his family to return and enjoy Christmas all together.
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A Promise Land Barack Obama BIOGRAPHIES & MEMOIRS
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AUDIOBOOK
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The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Mark Manson /
29H 10M
Whether you are into politics or not this book is a must read (or listen). The biography of President Barack Obama is a story of determination, courage, intelligence and wit. Stories of his life growing up in Hawaii, his early days in politics and his Presidency. The struggles he faced as Americas first black president and the success and failures he had throughout his life. This Unabridged audiobook, narrated by Barack Obama himself, can’t help but inspire you. History was made by this man and this books captures that story with detail and complete honesty.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT /
AUDIOBOOK
/
5H 17MINS
With a new year just around the corner we all look to make change in our lives with resolutions and goals for the year ahead. This book would be a great place to start. Not your average self help book at all. Mark Manson cuts through the nonsence of trying to be positve all the time so that you can become genuinely happier. This honest look on life, it’s ups and downs and the struggles we all have to face; the answer isn’t simply be better, but deal with things in a better way. Have better values and a more relaxed and open approach to your life and what may be waiting, might just be around the corner.
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Josh Murphy Sophie Murphy Steve Eggs Bailey Frances Izzy Dix
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At STONES, we are inspired to be part of the bigger picture. The last year has been tough on all businesses, so it’s important for us to support those that are local to us. So we are starting here, with our lifestyle magazine designed to draw readers to all the finer things in Royston. No matter what it is you have to offer Royston, whether it be big or small, you can be a part of Stones. Be part of the conversation, part of the journey. Get in touch with our STONES team today! @stonesmag
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