Feast on FESTIVITIES

Easter is here, so we’ve picked our top spots in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire to celebrate in style

By NATALIE LI

Amidst all the fun and frolics over the Easter holidays, it’s important to remember the meaning behind Good Friday, Easter Sunday and the story of rebirth and new beginnings. Not everyone, of course, is religious, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take advantage of some of the wonderful churches around Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. Whether you’re there to ponder, pray or simply admire, have faith – there’s plenty of stunning ancient churches to visit across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire during the Easter break, with two in particular standing out for Absolutely.

Situated in the attractive Buckinghamshire village of Ivinghoe is St Mary's, a 13th-century church featuring carved angels on the roof, and the 14th-century e gy of a man thought to be Peter de Chaceport, rector from 1241. The e gy lies in a tomb recess that may have been used as an Easter sepulchre. The picturesque village is worth a visit to admire the pretty timberframed buildings and venture further afield to the surrounding counties.

Then, on the edge of the south bank of the Thames across from Marlow, lies the ancient church of All Saints. Bisham village is rich in history, first recorded in the Domesday book. A church was also recorded on the riverside site of the present building. In the 15th century the parapet, battlements and brick quoins were added and the tower contains three bells dating back to 1840. Outside, the churchyard features several beautifully carved tombstones, dating from the first half of the 19th century.

With the history bug sated, time for a refill. It’s the most sweet-toothed time of the year and the hunt is on to find sticky-fingered, mouth-watering confectionery. Pair a visit to Windsor Castle with a hands-on chocolatethemed workshop for the whole family at Dr Chocs, which also has a cafe on the site.

It’s ideal for younger children who can get gloriously messy, while serious chocolate lovers have the opportunity to design their own chocolate with organic ingredients and ethically sourced chocolate. Expert chocolatiers are on hand to help visitors make three bars of chocolate, decorate them with various toppings and infuse them with essential oils and spices. Longer and more in-depth workshops o er the chance to dip tru es and candied fruits in chocolate, make hot chocolate on sticks and learn the art of making bon bons.

Fancy a taste of Paris in Buckinghamshire?

You’ll find just that at two independent, family-run chocolateries inspired by the film Chocolat. Rumsey’s of Wendover, and their branch in Thame, o ers an array of cakes, pastries, handmade chocolates, and ice cream, to eat in or takeaway.

Master chocolatier Nigel Rumsey started making chocolates in 1991 alongside his job as a pastry chef and opened the first Wendover Rumsey’s in 2004. Midsomer Murders’ fans will be delighted to visit Rumsey’s, which featured in an episode of ITV’s long-running detective series. Chocoholics, too, will revel at the beautifully curated boxes of handmade treats as well as the bespoke Easter eggs, chicks, and lollipops.

If the indulgence of Rumsey’s leaves you feeling guilty and eager to burn o calories, the nearby Phoenix trail is a flat, tra c-free route rich in wildlife and o ering magnificent views of the nearby Chiltern Hills, a perfect trail for a relaxed walk or bike ride.

Easter means, too, that it’s time to ditch the woollies and welcome lighter evenings, so why not embrace an Easter spring clean and update your wardrobe. But who says it needs to be brand new?

Pre-loved or second-hand clothes are on the rise and made a statement at London Fashion Week in February with the likes of supermodels Erin O’Connor taking to the catwalk. There’s never been a better time to do our bit for the planet and snap up secondhand fashion to reduce the need for brand-new items. What’s more, a plethora of independent vintage boutiques and high street charity shops can be found across the counties.