Eastlife Winter 2020

WINTER 2020 www.eastlife.co.uk
A Winter Wonderland
Festive events and days out
Food, Glorious, Food
A guide to the best farm shops
www.eastlife.co.uk
Interiors Special
New Year, New Home
inter

Centre of Excellence for
children and young people.
referred to us from all over the country.
Our experienced paediatric consultants have been
leading the way for child treatments for a number
of years, employing the safest and least invasive
surgical techniques.
Children from 0-3 years can be seen in our outpatients
department and children over 3 years as inpatients.
If your child needs to stay overnight, a paediatric nurse
stays overnight as well, giving you the reassurance you
need that your child is safe. Alternatively we also have
facilities for you to stay overnight with your child.
It can be a worrying time when your child isn’t well.
We understand that sometimes you don’t want to wait for
a diagnosis or perhaps you just want a second opinion.
assured that your child is in the best hands possible
for treatment.
Below are just some of the children’s services we provide:
• Allergies
• Children’s surgery (minor)
• Dermatology
Additional services:
• Physiotherapy
or visit
• Audiology
• Dental services
• Ear, nose and throat
(ENT)
• X-Ray
01277 695 631

Specialists in you
Don’t put
your life on
Get the treatment y
Get the treatment Join us at
Join us at
or a discrete one-to-one, f
or a discrete one-to-one, f
Thursday 14 June, 6.30pm
Thursday 14 June, 6.30pm
Pay as you go treatment Consultant ENT Surgeon
Consultant ENT Surgeon
Nuffield Health Brentwood Hos
Mr
Mr George George Fayad
Fayad
built around you
Tuesday 19 June, 6.30pm
Tuesday 19 June, 6.30pm
Pay as you go treatment Consultant Ophthalmic bu Su
Some of our services include:
Whether you’re ready to see a Consultant
• Breast Care
• Cardiology
searching for prices, we can help.
Visit nuffieldhealth
Pay for the treatment you need – and fe
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Your treatment guide f
Your
infected
treatment
or enlarged
guide
to
infected or enlarged to
Considering vision corr
Considering
or cataract surgery?
vision corr
Whether you’re ready to see a Consultant or are simply or searching cataract surgery?
for prices, we can help.
Pay for the treatment you need – and feel better faster.
• Cataracts / Eyes
• Cosmetic Surgery
• Endoscopy
• Hernia Repair
Consultant Mr Simon Ruben Ophthalmic Su
Mr Simon Ruben
Let’s talk hips and knee
Let’s talk hips and knee
Wednesday 20 June, 6.30p
Wednesday 20 June, 6.30p
Consultant Orthopaedic S
Consultant Mr Ravindran Orthopaedic Ranjith S
Mr Ravindran Ranjith
• Varicose Veins
• Women’s & Men’s Health For more information or
For more information or
or please call Or 01277 ca 886
or please call 01277 886
Or call 01277 695 631
• Children’s Services
• Ear, Nose & Throat
• Gastroenterology
• Orthopaedics/Sports Injuries
Essex CM15 8EH

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING MADE
Magical
LATE NIGHT SHOPPING UNTIL 9PM, WEDS - FRI I 18 TH NOV - 23 RD DEC
FREE
WINTER
WONDERLAND WALK
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Contents
Magazine Production
PUBLISHER Christa Hallam
christa@eastlife.co.uk | 07827 015170
EDITOR Emma Kemsley
emma@eastlife.co.uk
FEATURES WRITER Jacqui Hagen
jacqui@eastlife.co.uk | 07990 881546
GRAPHIC DESIGN Doug Dawson
doug@dougdawson.co.uk
SALES ENQUIRIES
Jim Leishman
jim@eastlife.co.uk | 07872 469 669
ON THE COVER
Southwold, Suffolk by Tabitha Mary.
Tabitha is inspired by the old railway posters.
She captures places near and far. You can see
her collection of 200+ prints on her website
www.tabithamary.co.uk
EASTLIFE is published by Local Media Publishing
Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or
in whole, without the written permission of the
publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed
by contributors are not necessarily those of the
publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were
correct at the time of going to press but readers are
advised to ring and check before setting out.
Printed by Buxton Press.
DON’T FORGET
TO DOWNLOAD THE
EASTLIFE APP AND FOLLOW
US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
(SEARCH “EASTLIFE”)
Dear Readers,
You don’t need me to point out it’s uncertain times, but despite the
on-going pandemic, the region’s residents and business owners are
pulling together to ensure Christmas and winter festivities continue.
I’m happy to say there are still lots of seasonal events planned. From
winter trails, ice rinks, drive-in pantos and Santa visits, we’ve picked
the best events for you to enjoy, with safety measures in place of
course.
If you’re itching to get away but feel restricted with the current tier
system, then check out our travel guides. There’s a foodie road trip
around Essex that you can take at your own pace, beach escapes
in Suffolk and cosy, country retreats that will take you completely
off-grid in Norfolk.
As always, we love to hear from you. Let us know about your favourite
local business, share your pics and engage with our content via
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Emma Kemsley
5

Gigabit
broadband
coming to
your area
We’re transforming towns and cities across
the East of England into the best digitally
connected places on the planet as we build
a new full fibre network.
The network will provide lightning-fast digital connections to
everyone and everything – from your family at home, to your
children at school, your workplace and even traffic lights
and CCTV cameras.
Find out more at
cityfibre.com/Eastlife

Contents
20
46
124
120
09 Around The Region
A round-up of the region’s news and
upcoming events
015 Lifestyle
A guide to seasonal and winter events.
Plus a gift guide to help you support local
business
034 Travel
His & Her spa beaks, rural retreats in
Norfolk, winter on the Suffolk Coast and a
foodie roadtrip around Essex
049 Dog Friendly
Catch up on Fletcher’s latest adventures
in Tails About Town
051 Education
How to make the most of a school open
day – everything you need to ask!
055 Little East
Keep your little ones entertained with
winter days out
063 Food & Drink
The latest food and drink news,
Cambridge’s newest food trend, it’s battle
of the burgers in Norwich and a guide to
the region’s best farm shops
069 Health
Find out why you shoud cycle to work,
plus a full guide on how to choose the
right care home for loved ones
075 Fashion
Slide into seasonal style with a skirt
077 Weddings
Planning tips for your 2021 wedding
079 Motoring
Sue Cooke reviews the Jeep Renegade 4xe
081 Consumer
Martin Lewis brings us the latest news on
Government ‘Green Home’ grants
085 Interiors
Redecorate your home on a budget, plus
sustainable Christmas ideas, garden updates
and property
099 Arts
A round-up of the region’s arts news and
events
102 Area Focus
A winter’s day out; read our visitor guides to
the region’s chic cities, market towns and
pretty villages
7

More Than A Home,
It’s A Way Of Life.
Coastal | Rural | Woodland
Modern Retirement Living In East Anglia.
Having the time to do all those things you’ve been
wanting to do. Living in a brand new, fully furnished
home that has been designed by you. Enjoying a
great social life within a safe and secure community,
exclusively for the over 45’s*. Plus part exchange and
assisted move schemes to get you moved in quickly.
Life just got better!
Learn more about modern retirement living at one of
our parks across East Anglia.
New developments at Bedwell Park, Cambridgeshire
and Wixfield Park, Suffolk.
*Dependent upon park rules. Contact us for confirmation.
To claim your FREE Beginners’ Guide to
Park Home Living call 01933 426579 or
email info@tingdene.net
www.tingdene-parks.net

Word
of
Mouth
The latest news from around the region
Dogs Trust Appeals for Foster Carers
Dogs Trust Freedom Project, a pet fostering scheme run by the
UK’s largest dog welfare charity, has launched an appeal to
animal-lovers in East Anglia to temporarily care for the dogs of
survivors of domestic abuse, enabling their owners to flee
to safety.
The Freedom Project provides foster homes for dogs and
enables survivors to access safe accommodation without the
fear of what may happen to their dog if they cannot take them
with them. Sadly, there is a strong link between domestic abuse
and abuse to pets, with research showing that pets will often be
used by a perpetrator as a tool to threaten or coerce.
Dogs Trust is currently expanding the project into East Anglia
and urgently needs foster carers to support this vital service.
The East Anglia service is set to run across Norfolk, Suffolk and
Cambridgeshire. The service already operates in Essex, and this
will mean that Dogs Trust can offer full coverage of the Freedom
Project in the East of England.
Volunteers will need to be at home during the day, potentially
people who are retired or work from home. They must have
some experience of caring for dogs, have their own garden
or access to a communal garden, and be able to commit to
fostering a dog for at least six months. Involvement in fostering
through the project is always kept completely confidential to
protect both the dogs and the foster carers.
If you think you can help or would like more information on the
service, you can visit www.dogstrustfreedomproject.org.uk,
call 0808 196 6240, or you can apply via the website at
www.moretodogstrust.org.uk/volunteer
9

Proposed changes to
London Luton Airport Arrivals
The arrival flightpaths into London Luton Airport need to change, and you can help shape how
What is being proposed?
London Luton Airport shares arrival routes and holds with Stansted Airport. Any arrival delay or
disruption at one airport can cause unnecessary arrival delay to the other, impacting the travelling
public and local communities. The proposals for change involve separating London Luton Airport’s
arrivals flightpaths further out and higher up to reduce delays and ensure safety for the future.
Why are we doing this now?
Although the amount of air traffic has reduced due to the impacts of COVID-19, the need to change
the airspace remains. Unless we do something now, we will see more arrival delays and airborne
holding as flights increase, worsening the environmental impacts and increasing the likelihood of
delay in order to protect safety.
Will the proposed change affect me?
London Luton Airport and NATS are seeking your feedback on two options, which affect areas
not only near the Airport but also across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex,
Hertfordshire and Suffolk. You can find out more about what the changes might mean for you by
using the postcode search on the website.
Have your say
Your feedback is very important to help shape the final proposal. More information, including details
of online meetings and how to submit your response, can be found by visiting london-luton.co.uk/ad6
This consultation runs from Monday 19 th October 2020 until Friday 5 th February 2021.
Responses should be made using the online form on the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Airspace
Change Portal.
If you require a printed copy of the consultation document or have any special requirements, please
contact: Airspace Change, Flight Operations, London Luton Airport, Percival House, Percival Way,
Luton, LU2 9NU.
Email enquiries can be sent to AD6@ltn.aero
Use the camera on your smartphone
to scan this QR code for direct access
to the website:

Rebrand for Norwich Shopping Centre
Norwich’s Chapelfield shopping centre, has been renamed Chantry
Place. The former intu location has undergone a rebrand. Its new
name pays homage to the lesser known history of the site.
As well as a new name, website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
channels, the rebrand includes a new logo, signage and uniform
for staff.
The name Chantry Place embraces the site’s medieval heritage as
a secular college and chapel, built during the 1200s, which was
known as a chantry. Chantry Road runs along the side of the centre;
Chapelfield Plain has been renamed Chantry Square.
www.chantryplace.co.uk
Griff Rhys Jones to continue EACH
fundraising with Celebrity Bottom Drawer
Auction
A one-of-a-kind film camera coffin made in Ghana is among quirky
items that could be yours this Christmas as A-listers sift through their
D-list stuff to raise money for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The Celebrity Bottom Drawer Auction is being organised by Griff Rhys
Jones as he continues his annual festive fundraising for EACH. He is
currently asking his network of celebrity friends built up over 40 years
of comedy, TV and radio, to regift items too. Top grade celebrity castoffs,
memorabilia and treasures are expected to be available come 27
November, when a week-long online auction will begin.
Exclusive books from David Walliams, including one of three copies
of Baby Eric, a story written for Simon Cowell when his son was born,
and a special £10 note created for Doctor Who from David Tennant are
among items that have already started coming in.
The likes of Alexander Armstrong, Ant & Dec, Ian Hislop, Joanna
Lumley, Matt Lucas, Ralph Fiennes, Tom Hollander and many more
have also pledged to delve through their drawers.
For more information visit www.CelebrityBottomDrawer.com.
Anyone who feels they already have enough items around the house
will be able to ‘bid for nothing’ and make a donation straight to EACH.
Madness Announce Forest
Live Dates
Madness have announced dates as part
of Forest Live 2021; the summer concert
series presented by Forestry England. The
band will be performing their classic hits
on stage at Thetford Forest on 19 June.
Tickets are now on sale.
www.forestryengland.uk/music
Museum Openings
A number of Norfolk’s museums are
reopening their doors with safety
measure in place. Visitors can once
again enjoy the likes of Norwich
Castle Museum & Art Gallery and Lynn
Museum. Both attractions require
visitors to book tickets in advance on
the website.
www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk
Summer Announcements
Let’s face it, we can’t wait to put
2020 behind us, which is why the
announcement of forth coming summer
concerts comes at a welcomed time.
The Jockey Club Live have released
details of its scheduled summer shows
at Newmarket Racecourse, which
includes big names such as The Script
(18 June), Rick Astley (25 June), Bryan
Ferry (16 July), Tom Jones (23 July),
Olly Murs (30 July) and McFly (28
August).Tickets are now on sale at
www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk
11

The
Calendar
Due to COVID-19 event information is being updated frequently
and events may be cancelled or postponed. Please ensure you
check ahead before visiting any event listed.
The Village Van is on the Road…again!
North Norfolk
November
The Village Van is once again hitting the road during lockdown to provide daily
essentials to North Norfolk villages. The 1973 Citroen H van has been repurposed as a
village shop selling fruit, vegetables, cheese and bread, among other essentials, all of
which are sourced locally where possible. The service was hugely popular during the
first lockdown and it will resume to serve the local community once again from Tuesday
9 November, with one-hour slots at selected villages. In addition to local produce,
residents can also order Christmas hampers! For the full location schedule visit
www.neallskitchen.com/villagevan or Instagram @thevillagevan
Hertford Christmas Prize Draw
Hertford Town Centre
Until 19 December
Those shopping in Hertford this Christmas could be in for the chance of winning a
£50 gift voucher to spend at any Hertford retailer. Once a customer has spent £10 in
a participating store, to enter the competition the customer must leave their contact
details to be entered into a raffle. The competition is organised by Hertford Town
Council, and encourages people to shop locally and support the town’s shops and
services. Ten lucky winners will be selected to win a £50 gift voucher. The winners will
be announced on 22 and 23 December.
www.gohertford.co.uk/events
14 & 25 November,
10am-5pm
November
Online Bedfordshire Christmas Fair
www.bedfordshirechristmasfair.org
Mannington Estate Walks, every day throughout
the year
Norwich, NR11 7BB
Wrap up warm and enjoy the changing gardens at the Mannington Estate. Walks
remain open every day throughout the year which also includes access to the bird hide
where Otters and Kingfishers are spotted regularly. The grounds offer a peaceful and
safe space during the current on-going pandemic.
www.manningtonestate.co.uk
Paul Dickson Tours/Norwich: An Introduction
Meet outside the Erpingham Gate, Tombland, Norwich
5 December, 10am
Discover more than 1000 years of Norwich’s history on this circular tour, with guide
Paul Dickson, starting and finishing at the 15th century Erpingham Gate, Norwich
Cathedral, Tombland. Explore the ancient Cathedral Quarter. Hear stories of Norwich
Castle, walk through the late Victorian shopping arcade, then see Norwich Market, the
15th century Guildhall, City Hall and Jarrold’s department store. The return journey
passes the Museum of Norwich, where you hear about Norwich’s former chocolate
history, followed by Cinema City and St Andrews & Blackfriars Halls, before passing
down picturesque Elm Hill to the River Wensum and back to the Erpingham Gate.
Ticket £7, book via Eventbrite.
www.pauldicksontours.co.uk
12

Christmas Spectacular Circus & Water Show
Hippodrome Circus, St Georges Road, Great Yarmouth
5 December – 10 January
The Christmas Spectacular returns for a social distanced performance, but bigger
and better! There’ll be international circus artistes, a water spectacle with aerialists,
synchronised swimmers, giant fountains and the magic of Christmas with hilarious
comedy from Ben Langley and sensational acrobats with over 50 performers.
Tickets are limited due to social distancing so book quick!
www.hippodromecircus.co.uk
Made in Bedford
Bedford Chartered Market Square, St Paul’s Square, Bedford
6 December, 10am-3pm
A lovely fair showcasing the best crafts from local artists, craftspeople and
producers. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy cards, gifts and decorations. The
Number 13 café will be open for refreshments, cakes and there will be vegan food
from Scrumdiddly Kitchen. There are a few changes to apply with COVID safety
measures including fewer stalls outside on the Market Square. Unfortunately, there’s
no music or live demos, but you can still expect a buzzing festive atmosphere.
A Circus Carol
Norwich Theatre Royal
16-23 December
Starring Lost in Translation Circus, the Charles Dickens’ timeless classic ‘A Christmas
Carol’ is literally turned on its head in this spectacular production filled with gasps,
thrills and laughs. Combining acrobatics and truly amazing trickery with ghosts of
Christmas past, present and future, this marvellously intricate reimagining captures
all the thrills and spills of the original festival tale with even more spectacle.
Tickets priced £10 to £17.50.
www.norwichtheatre.org
1 January
Sheringham New Year’s Day Dip
Sheringham Beach
Don your fancy dress and take the brave plunge into the sea for this long-standing
tradition.
Noah’s Ark Museum
Orwell Quay, Cult Cafe, James Herir Building, University Avenue, Ipswich, IP3 0FS
Until 28 March 2021
This is one of your last chances to experience a floating museum! Noah’s Ark is the
world’s only floating exhibition of Bible stories. The exhibition will come to a close
at the end of March. Covering 2,000 square meters and four floors, the Ark is a halfsized
replica of Noah’s original boat. Throughout the ‘museum-ship’ are exhibitions
and displays of wooden sculptures telling some of the most popular Biblical stories
including Adam & Eve, Moses and David & Goliath plus a 12ft tall ‘Tree of Life’.
www.allaboutipswich.com/whats-on/events/noahs-ark
Nuclear Fallout
Brentwood, Essex
6 February, 9am
Burn off those Christmas calories with this almighty 7k and 12k obstacle course.
You’ll need to train hard to tackle this one, and it’s not for the faint hearted but if you
want to set yourself a challenge in 2021, sign up! Price from £59.50.
www.nuclear-races.co.uk
13

FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2020 - SUNDAY 10 JANUARY 2021
FOR AGES
UP TO 7
F U N F O R A LL T H E FA M ILY
VENUE:
The Garage, 14 Chapel Field North, Norwich, NR2 1NY
TICKETS:
£12.50 adult | £7.50 child, under 1s go free
BOOKINGS:
01603 283382 | thegarage.org.uk
ALL
PRODUCTIONS
PANTOS IN NORFOLK
COVID
SECURE
WEDNESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2020 - SUNDAY 3 JANUARY 2021
FOR AGES
UP TO 7
U N F F O R A LL T H E FA M ILY
VENUE:
The Workshop, 38 New Conduit Street, Vancouver Quarter, PE30 1DL
TICKETS:
£12.50 adult | £7.50 child, under 1s go free
BOOKINGS:
01553 277919 | theworkshop.org.uk
THE WORKSHOP
KING’S LYNN
ALL
PRODUCTIONS

Christmas
EVENTS
COVID-19 may feel like the
unofficial Grinch that stole
Christmas but there’s still plenty
of festivities to be enjoyed. The
region’s towns and cities will
sparkle with light displays, Santa
will still make an appearance
and there’s lots of festive days
out scheduled to go ahead. We’ve
pulled together a handy guide of
seasonal festivities for you to enjoy
in a safe, social-distanced space.
Remember, when it comes to
Christmas shopping, local business
needs our support more than ever.
Read our gift guide for inspiration
from independent brands.
There’s still time salvage 2020,
after all this is the most wonderful
time of the year!
15

LIFESTYLE
Winter Won
A guide to unmissable festive events
Don’t worry Christmas hasn’t been cancelled, the seasonal
magic is spreading across the region, far and wide, with
dazzling light displays, festive pop ups, ice rinks and more.
Read our guide to enjoying winter in the East.
Tunnel of Light,
open until 5 January
Hay Hill, Norwich
Returning with glittering sequences,
Norwich’s Tunnel of Light will once again
thrill the senses with its 45-meters long, 4
meters high and 6 meters wide tunnel. It’s
a must visit if you’re in the city this winter,
and a great photo opportunity. This year
safety measures are in place; visitors
are encouraged to walk on the left and
there will be directional floor stickers one
metre apart to help you social distance
throughout the tunnel.
www.visitnorwich.co.uk
The North Pole,
open until 3 January
Parker’s Piece, Cambridge
Get into the festive spirit, whatever the
weather, and skate in style at The North
Pole Cambridge. It features an undercover
ice rink and cosy Alpine Cabin Bar. This
year’s ice rink is the biggest yet, but
there’ll be no increase in capacity to
ensure there’s plenty of space for skaters.
Full social distancing measures will be in
place. New for this year is a ferris wheel
offering wonderful views of Cambridge,
and a thrilling three-lane ice slide. After
skating, browse the stalls or warm up with
mulled wine and a German bratwurst
sausage. Adult tickets priced £13.50,
children aged 3 to 12 priced £11.50.
www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk
Drive-In Christmas Show
Chelmsford City Racecourse,
11 December, 4.30pm & 7pm
IWM Duxford, 12 December,
2pm & 5pm
Knebworth House, 24 December,
2pm & 5pm
A car park panto, yes you read that right,
is coming to Chelmsford City Racecourse,
IWM Duxford and Knebworth House. In
partnership with the Birmingham Stage
Company and Horrible Histories, there will
be two performances a day of a ‘Horrible
Christmas’; a hair-raising adventure
through the history of Christmas with
colourful characters. Families will be able
to get into the festive spirit from the comfort
and safety of their car. There are limited
tickets for each show priced at £45 per car.
www.carparkparty.com
16

derland
Festive Afternoon Tea at
The Maids Head Hotel,
December
Tombland, Norwich
Get into the festive spirit with the hotel’s
award-winning traditional afternoon tea
bursting with seasonal flavours. Enjoy
this special treat with friends and family
in either the Wine Press Restaurant or in
one of the cosy lounges.
Priced £20 per person.
www.maidsheadhotel.co.uk
Father Christmas at
Glemham Hall,
5 & 6 December
Little Glemham, Suffolk
Father Christmas will be flying into the Great
Hall at Glemham Hall with festive crafts and
elves to help children write and post a letter
to the North Pole. Children can visit the
reindeer hut in the garden and meet Santa
himself.
www.glemhamhall.co.uk/events/
meetfatherchristmas
Thursford Enchanted
Journey of Light,
open until 3 January
Thursford Collection, Fakenham
A magical walk-through experience
for all ages, this is an all-new indoor
Wonderland Trail. A maze of steam
engines, fairy-tale characters and an
immersive experience of light and sound
including one of the UK’s biggest kinetic
light displays, will lead to a 4-acre Lantern
Light Extravaganza. This includes
a beautiful, breath-taking outdoor
installation of luminous sculptures, from
a fantasy forest of jungle animals to the
wilds of the North Pole. Tickets require
pre-booking. £15 per person, maximum
six tickets per booking. Free for ages two
years and under. Time slots allocated
from 3pm daily.
www.thursford.com/enchantedjourney-of-light
Bure Valley Railway
Festive Express,
5 December and daily
from 19 December,
including Christmas Eve
Aylsham Station, Norwich Road,
Aylsham
The Festive Express is a one-hour
experience from Aylsham station in
the Norfolk Broads which includes a
30-minute steam train ride, Christmas
refreshments for all the family, a
guest appearance from Santa and a
personalised present for each child. The
attraction is holder of VisitEngland’s
‘We’re Good To Go’ mark, so you’re
in safe hands. Advanced booking is
essential. Tickets £12 per person (adults
and children).
www.bvrw.co.uk
Panto in a Pickle! 16-24
December, various times
Theatre Royal, Norwich
A brand new show for the whole family that
captures lots of the traditional panto fun in
a madcap adventure through six favourite
stories. Be prepared for pantomime but not
as you know it! There has been a terrible
mess-up in Panto-land. What is Cinderella
doing with those magic beans? Why did
Captain Hook stop Snow White going to
the ball? How did Aladdin end up in an
enchanted sleep?
Tickets priced £10 to £13.50.
www.norwichtheatre.org
Hertford Christmas Town
Centre Trail,
21 December – 1 January
Hertford Town Centre
Get the children excited about the town
they live in with Hertford’s town trail. Taking
place throughout the Christmas holidays,
it is designed to encourage visitors to the
town centre and to explore and support
different retailers’ offerings.
www.www.hertford.gov.uk
Projections on Norwich
Castle, displayed until
31 January
Norwich city centre
Mesmerising projections will transform
Norwich Castle’s historic façade with
a celebration of the region’s culture
and heritage, Christmas magic and
mystery this festive season. The work of
Illuminos projection arts will adorn the
castle presenting new original stories to
thrill audiences and add atmosphere to
Norwich city centre.
www.visitnorwich.co.uk
Christmas Adventure Quest,
26 December –
3 January, 10am-4pm
Audley End House & Gardens, Saffron
Walden, Essex
A great chance to get outdoors and embrace
winter’s nature. Families can explore and
discover fun facts and untold stories of
history, hunt for clues and QR codes which
reveal quirky tales. Hot chocolate and mulled
wine will be on offer too.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/
whats-on/audley-end-christmasadventure-quest-26-dec---3-jan-2021
17

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre
www.bressingham.co.uk
EVENTS ALL YEAR
check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900
for further details
Find us on Facebook & Twitter
just search for Bressingham Steam

ADVERTORIAL
Christmas
at Bressingham Steam Museum
For 2020, there will be no live entertainment in the Village Hall, Santa will be in his grotto where
you will be able to see and speak with him, and receive a present – however you will not be able to
enter the grotto and sit with him.
The 2020 times slots are for visiting the grotto, this must be done on arrival this year – then at your
leisure look round the decorated spaces , take a train ride and ride on the Gallopers. Please arrive in
time to park, get your tickets and make the 5 minute trip from the entrance to the Grotto
Bookings is essential and should ideally be made ,online the way of operating this year severely reduces our
numbers so it’s best to book online. Season ticket holders can ring or book during the year in person.
Father Christmas and his wife and elves, will be at Bressingham on the 5/6, 12/13, and 19,20,21,22,23,24
December 2020. Entry times vary depending on the day.
Why not stay all afternoon and visit Walmington on Sea at Christmas.
This year Santa is including:
• A ride on the Steam Train on the Fen Railway for everyone
• For those up to the age of 12 a visit to Father Christmas and a present from him. Rides on
the Gallopers are included too.
• The Dads Army Exhibition will be decorated for Christmas
There will be food available at the Garden Centre if you arrive before Santa is ready and at The
Steam Museum too during your visit.
• Adult (advance) tickets are £12.50#
• Children (advance) 3-12 £15.50#
• under 3’s (advance) requiring a present are £8.00#
Tickets on the day will be £1 per person more than in advance –
if there are any still available.
#These prices include a Gift Aid donation. All offer types (including Tesco Deals) are excluded
from use at this event.
www.bressingham.co.uk/events/christmas.aspx

LIFESTYLE
PYO
Christmas
Tree
Nothing beats the smell of a real fir at
Christmas. If you’re thinking of picking
your own pine, take a trip to one of the
region’s Christmas tree farms
20

LIFESTYLE
The festive season may be looking
a little different this year, but one
thing Boris can’t stop us enjoying is a
Christmas tree. Wrap up warm and get
yourself to one of the many ‘pick your
own’ farms across the region. Some
farms have the addition of cute barns
where you can eat, shop and soak up
the festive atmosphere.
Bedfordshire
Stagsden Christmas Trees,
Opens 7 November
West End Farm, West End, Stagsden
MK43 8SZ
www.stagsdenchristmastrees.co.uk
Windmill Christmas Tree Farm
Windmill Lane, Stevington, Bedford
MK43 7QZ
www.facebook.com/
localchristmastreefarm
Badge Hill Christmas Tree Farm
Badger Hill, Clophill Road, Maulden,
MK45 2AD
www.badgerhillchristmastreefarm.
co.uk
A Jakins & Sons Christmas Tree
Kitchen End, Pulloxhill Road, Silsoe,
MK45 4QT
www.jakinstrees.com
Clifton Bury Fruit Farm
Clifton Bury Fruit Farm, Clifton,
SG17 5EX
www.facebook.com/
CliftonBuryFruitFarm
Fred’s Christmas Trees
Grange Cottages, Sunderland Hill,
Elm Farm Industrial Estate, Bedford
MK44 2SJ
www.freds-christmas-trees.
business.site
Hertfordshire
The Real Christmas Tree Farm,
24 November – 23 December
Ringshal, Berkhamsted, HP4 1ND
www.realchristmastreefarm.co.uk
Christmas Tree Place,
Opens 21 November
Chesham Road, Berkhamsted HP4 2SZ
www.christmastreeplace.co.uk
Festive Trees Hertfordshire
Oak’s Cross Farm, Hook’s Cross,
SG14 3RY
www.festivetreeshertfordshire.co.uk
Ware Christmas Tree Farm
Highview Farm, Green End Lane,
Dane End, Nr Ware, SG12 0FF
www.christmastree-farm.co.uk
Christmas Tree Farm Chesham,
Opening 21 November
Chesham HP5 1NE
www.christmastreefarm.co.uk
The Magic of Christmas,
Open until Christmas
The Old Rectory Farm, Walkern,
SG2 7PD
www.themagicofchristmas.net
Cambridgeshire
Cambridge Christmas Tree Experience
Newmarket Road, Bottisham,
Cambridge CB25 9EG
www.cambridgechristmastreeexperience.
co.uk
The Christmas Tree Firm
Quarterway Barns, Ely CB6 3HP
www.thechristmastreefirm.co.uk
Ramsey Xmas Trees
Mill View Farm, Holme Road, Ramsey St
Mary’s, Huntingdon PE26 2ST
www.ramsey-xmas-trees.co.uk
Tallington Farm Christmas Trees
Mill Lane, Tallington, Stamford PE9 4RR
www.tallingtonfarm.co.uk
Suffolk
Church Farm Christmas Barn
Bradfield Combust, Bury St Edmunds
IP30 0LW
www.churchfarmchristmasbarn.com
Elveden Christmas Trees
Estate Office, London Road, Elveden,
Thetford IP24 3TQ
www.elvedenchristmastrees.com
Wrentham Christmas Trees,
24 November to Christmas Eve
Field Farm, Wrentham, Beccles,
NR34 7NB
www.wrenthamchristmastrees.com
Sharman Christmas Trees
3 Wash Lane, Burgh St Peter, Beccles
NR34 0BW
www.christmastreesbeccles.com
Hollow Trees Farm
A1141, Semer, Ipswich IP7 6HX
www.hollowtrees.co.uk/christmas
Manor Farm Christmas Trees,
Open weekends in December
Manor Farm, Vicarage Road, Great
Hockham, Thetford IP24 1PE
www.manorfarm-christmas.co.uk
Blackthorpe Barn,
Selected dates, must be pre-booked
Rougham, Blackthorpe,
Bury St Edmunds IP30 9JG
www.blackthorpebarn.com
Essex
Rayleigh Christmas Tree Farm
Slatfords Nursery & Garden Centre,
Weir Cutting , Arterial Road, Rayleigh,
SS6 7TU
www.slatfordsnursery.co.uk/
christmas-trees
Hurley’s Christmas Tree Farm,
Open 29 November
Woodham Road Battlesbridge, Wickford
SS11 7QL
www.christmasfarm.co.uk
Christmas Wrapped Up,
1 November – 22 December
Easter Hall, Aythorpe Roding, Dunmow
CM6 1PE
www.christmaswrappedup.co.uk
Alsa Wood Farm,
Open 28 November
Alsa Wood, Stansted CM24 8SU
www.alsawoodfarm.co.uk
Foxes Farm Produce
Upminster – RM14 1UA
Basildon – SS15 4ER
www.foxesfarmproduce.co.uk/
christmas-trees
Slamsey’s Christmas Trees
Slamseys Farm, Blackley Lane, Great
Notley, Braintree CM77 7QW
www.slamseys.co.uk/christmas-trees
Norfolk
Norfolk Christmas Trees,
28 November – 22 December
Hall Farm Barn, Pockthorpe Road,
Great Melton, Norwich NR9 3BW
www.norfolk-christmastrees.co.uk
Blackrow Nurseries
Longthorn House, Shortthorn Road,
Stratton Strawless, Norwich, NR10 4DE
www.norfolkhedging.co.uk/pages/
christmas-trees.htm
21

Big brands,
Outlet prices
From Hatfield train station;
3 minutes by taxi, 12 minutes on foot.
STORES, CAFÉS & RESTAURANTS 9 SCREEN CINEMA ‘GET WILD!’ KID’S PLAY
thegalleriahatfield
the_galleria

The
Gift
Guide

GIFT GUIDE
Cambridgeshire
Treat your loved one or
family member to an insight
into the 17th century life of
the former Lord Protector
Oliver Cromwell with a gift
voucher this Christmas.
To purchase one of these gift vouchers
please call 01353 662062
www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
Escape Room –
groups of 6
£85.00
Cromwell Quest
£3 on top of normal
entry fee
(A0 £4.60 (C) £3.10
Tour of House with audio
guide – Family Ticket
(2 adults, 2 children)
£12.30
Complimentary lingerie styling and fitting.
Appointments at our boutique in Buckden
or buy online. Call us on 01480 812740
Text 07538 354701
Marie Jo Sylvia
Clara Rossi Robe
Empriente Flora
www.elouiselingerie.co.uk
From £50.90
£85.00
From £40.50
Fine Art & Contemporary Craft
18a Bridge Street
St Ives
PE27 5EG
www.vkgallery.co.uk
Elin Horgan –
Gold Teardrop Necklace
£50.00
Jode Pankhurst –
Tonka Bottles
From £35.00
Ann Charlish –
Mother of Pearl Purse
£37.00
Cambridge’s premier fine art giclée
printer and picture framers.
Quality canvas wraps from your
own images.
The ideal gift for the
artist in your life.
Prices from
Bespoke picture
framing for that special
gift this Christmas.
www.photoartgb.com £10.00
£25.00 £38.00
Custom sized canvas
wrap prints from your
favourite photograph.
cloudninegems
Independent jewellery, accessories
and gifts shop selling beautiful things.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook
Pantone 5565
CMYK 30.0.28.26 WEB 140.174.156
www.cloudninegems.com
Ronin Jewellery
necklace
£32.00
Quintessential
Cambridge silk scarf
£18.00
Rainbow crystals on
sterling silver necklace
£72.00
24

GIFT GUIDE
Why not give a unique gift with a
positive environmental impact this year?
A guided-buggy tour of Watatunga
Wildlife Reserve.
www.watatunga.co.uk
A national equine welfare charity
responsible for over 2,000 rescued
horses, ponies, donkeys and mules
across the UK.
www.redwings.org.uk
Britain’s Biggest Online Beer,
Spirits, Liquors and Wine Shop – all
delivered straight to your door!
www.beersofeurope.co.uk
15A Blyburgate, Beccles.
NR34 9TB
01502 714234
www.becclessewing.co.uk
Voucher for a
4-seater buggy
£60.00
Lady and Holly in the
Snow Christmas Card
£4.50
Nelsons Gold
Liqueur
£31.99
BROTHER LX17
Simple to use,
lightweight machine
£119.00
Voucher for a
6-seater buggy
Sponsor a rescued horse
or donkey for a year
£15.00
Brewboard Craft Beer
6 Can Gift Box
£16.99
MARATHON Machine
Embroidery Thread
gift Box
£52.99
Christmas shopping
made simple!
£90.00 Priceless
Christmas Gathering
1,000 piece puzzle
£13.00
Armenian Brandy
Rose
£22.99
BABYLOCK Victory
Overlocker with ‘Jet Air’
Self-threading loopers.
£1149.00
Norfolk Suffolk
Treat your loved ones who has a precious dog in their life
to something a little different, an exciting dog photography
session. Gift certificates and direct bookings are available.
T: 07720 834868
E: wallacenigel@ymail.com
www.nigelwallacephotography.co.uk
25

THIS IS OUTLET
SHOPPING
Uncompromising Style
at up to 60% off the RRP

PRINTS INSPIRED BY THE OLD RAILWAY POSTERS
Tabitha Mary designs all her prints from her home in Bedfordshire. She captures places from near
and far, with over 200 prints available in her online shop there’s bound to be something for
everyone. Commissions and wholesale welcome. Any questions just ask tabitha@tabithamary.co.uk
20% off when you buy 3 or more online
WWW.TABITHAMARY.CO.UK
@TabithaMaryUK
27

Wood Green
is here for
pets and
their owners
Wood Green, The Animals Charity can support you at every step
of your pet ownership journey. From choosing the right pet to
ongoing care and, where necessary, giving up a pet, their friendly
team can help.
This year has impacted our pets in a number of ways –
disruptions to routines, financial challenges and more people
than ever getting a new pet. As schools, work and social lives
return, just as lockdown puppies reach adolescence, pets and
their owners may face new challenges.
Whatever circumstances pet owners find themselves in,
Wood Green can provide free advice and support. Life can be
unpredictable and some owners may no longer be able to care
for their pets. Whatever the reason, Wood Green will listen and
guide you through your options. Visit www.woodgreen.org.uk
Do you need to find
your pet a loving new
home? Wood Green
are here for you.
Registered Charity Number 298348 00782ks0820
We understand that life can
be unpredictable, sometimes
making it hard to care for your
pet – but we can help. We’ll
listen, advise, and if you do
need to hand them over to us,
we’ll take them into our care
and find that loving new home.
To find out more, please call 0300 303 9333 or email pet.support@woodgreen.org.uk
28

WE’RE
HIRING!
We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced self-employed advertising sales
executive to join our friendly and enthusiastic team. You must be passionate about
both print and online media and be self-motivated with excellent communication skills.
The role will require you to maintain an existing area whilst sourcing leads to develop
new business. You must be extremely self motivated with excellent time management
and organisational skills as this is a work from home position with hours to suit.
If you are interested in joining the Eastlife team and you
have a minimum of one years experience in advertising sales
then please email your CV to christa@eastlife.co.uk
eastlife

LIFESTYLE
Annual
Antiques
Fair
Guide
Pop these dates in
your diary
Whether you’re an avid collector or
simply fancy a day out, an antique fair
can provide hours of entertainment.
Browse the treasures of a bygone era,
shop vintage clothing or find a key
piece for your home. The good news
is fairs are small, so there’s space to
socially distance and there’s usually
tea and cake!
We’ve rounded up the best annual
antiques fairs across the region.
Some dates for 2021 are still yet
to be confirmed, however keep
checking with your selected fair as
announcements will be made soon.
Norfolk
Norfolk Snettisham Fleamarket
The Memorial Hall, 13 Old Church Road,
Snettisham, PE31 7LX
Open 9am-3pm. Entry 50p
Hingham Antiques Fair,
held on the last Sunday of every
month except December (2020 dates
have been cancelled)
The Sports Hall, Springfield Way,
Hingham, NR9 4HB
Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry £2
Hemsby Antiques & Collectors Event,
resuming March 2021
Hemsby Village Hall & Social Club,
Waters Lane, Waters Lane, NR29 4LE
Open 8.30am-3.30pm. Free entry
Norwich Brocante, 21 February 2021
St Andrews Hall, St Andrews Plain,
Norwich, NR3 1AU
Militaria Fair Thetford Norfolk
Thetford Leisure Centre, Croxton Road,
Thetford, IP24 1JD
Open 10am-2pm. Entry £3, under 16s
free.
Norfolk’s Collectors Fair at
The Parish Hall
Parish Hall, Church Street, Cromer,
NR27 9ES
Open 8am-3.30pm. Free entry
Loddon Antiques & Collectors Fair
Jubilee Hall, George Lane, Loddon,
NR14 6NB
Entry £1
Watton Antiques & Collectables Fair,
10 January 2021
The Queens Hall, Norwich Road,
Watton, IP25 6DA
Open 9am-3.30pm. Free entry
Roydon Antiques & Collectors Fair
Village Hall, High road, Roydon,
Diss, IP22 5RB
Open 9.30am-3.30pm.
Entry 50p, under 14s free
The Grand Brocante
at Riddlesworth Hall
Riddlesworth Hall, Frenze Hall Lane,
Diss, IP22 2TA
Open 9am-3pm. Entry £3
Reepham Objects & Antiques Festival
Market Place, Reepham, NR10 4JJ
Free entry
NASADA Antiques Fair
The Norfolk Lounge at NCFC, Carrow
Road Stadium, Norwich, NR1 1JE
Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry £3
Stalham Vintage and Collectables
Street Market
High Street and Town Hall, Stalham,
NR12 8AH
Open 10am-4pm. Free entry
Antiques & Craft Fair Aylsham
High School
Aylsham High School, Sir Williams Lane,
Aylsham, NR11 6AN
The Holkham Hall Antiques Fair,
The Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea,
NR23 1AB
Open 11am to 5pm, admission £5
Suffolk
Long Melford Antiques and Vintage
Fair, last Saturday and Sunday of
every month, January to November
The Old School, Hall Street,
Long Melford, CO10 9DX
Open 9.30am-4pm.
Entry £1, under 16s free.
Suffolk’s Graham Turner Antiques
Fairs, first Wednesday of every month
Long Melford Village Memorial Hall,
Chemists Lane, (opposite The Bull
Hotel), Long Melford, CO10 9LQ
Open 9.30am-3.30pm
Stonham Barns Antiques, Vintage,
Retro & Collectors Fair
Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspel, IP14 6AT
Open Saturday 10am – 4pm,
Sunday 9am – 3pm.
Entry Saturday £3, Sunday £2
Suffolk Antiques & Collectors Fair
Lavenham Village Hall, Church Street,
Lavenham, CO10 9QT
Open 9.30am-4pm. Entry £1
Beccles Antiques Street Market,
May & August
Beccles Town Centre, Beccles, Suffolk,
NR34 9HA
Free entry.
The Famous Copdock Antiques &
Collectors Fair
The Best Wesern Ipswich Hotel
(Formerly the Cameo), Old Ipswich
Road, Copdock, IP8 3JD
Entry £2
Newmarket Racecourse Antique
and 20th Century Fair, expecting
announcement for May & August
2021
Newmarket Racecourse (Rowley Mile),
The Heath, Newmarket, CB8 0TF
Open 9.30am-4pm. Entry £3.50
The Bungay Antiques Street Fair,
July
Earsham Street, Bungay, NR35 1AF
30

LIFESTYLE
Southwold Fine Art and Antiques Fair
Saint Felix School, Southwold, IP18 6SD
Open 11am-5pm. Admission £4,
under 16s free.
Suffolk’s The Fair on the Green
Southwold, July or August
South Green to Gun Hill, Southwold
IP18 6HB
Open 9am-4pm. Free entry
Halesworth Antiques Street Market
Halesworth Thoroughfare, Market Place,
IP19 8AP
Open 9am-3pm
Cambridgeshire
Hinchingbrooke House Antiques Fair
Hinchingbrooke House, Brampton
Road, Huntingdon, PE29 3BN
Open 10am-4pm. Entry £3.
Great Chishill Antiques & Vintage Fair,
February 2021
Village Hall, Hall Lane, Great Chishill,
Cambridge, SG8 8SH
The Ely Antiques and
Collectables Fair
Centre E, 24 Barton Road, Ely, CB7 4DE
Open from 10am. Entry £1
Peterborough Festival of Antiques
The East of England Showground,
Peterborough, PE2 6HE
Open Friday 10am-4.30pm,
Saturday 9am-4.30pm. Entry £7.50
St Ives Antiques Fair
The Burgess Hall (One Leisure),
Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU
Open 10am-4pm
The Curiosity Fair Great Shelford,
March/April 2021
120 Cambridge Road, Gt Shelford,
CB22 5JT
The Festival of Vintage East,
September 2021
East of England Arena, East of England
Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE
Open 10am-5pm
Essex
Maldon Antiques and Collectors Fair,
first Saturday of the month
Quaker Hall, Butt Lane, Maldon
Open 9am-4pm
Essex Curiosity Saffron Walden,
March/April 2021
Saffron Walden Friends Meeting House,
High Street, CB10 1AA
Open 10am-4pm. Entry £1
Great Dunmow Jewellery Fair,
17 April & 20 November 2021
Foakes Hall, Stortford Road, Great
Dunmow, CM6 1DG
Colchester Antiques, Vintage,
Retro & Collectors Fair
Charter Hall, Leisure World, Cowdray
Avenue (A133) AA Signposted,
CO1 1YH
Entry £2.50
Southend Vintage Fair, spring 2021
Southend Leisure & Tennis Centre,
Garon Park, Eastern Avenue,
Southend on Sea, SS2 4FA
Entry £3
Essex Antiques & Collectables Fair
Ingatestone, 3 May & 30 August 2021
Ingatestone Community Centre, 7 High
Street, Ingatestone, CM4 9ED
Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry £1.
Rural Magpie Great Chesterford
Jewellery Fair, 24 April and
13-14 November 2021
The Chesterfords Community Centre,
Newmarket Road, Great Chesterford,
CB10 1NS
Rayleigh Antiques and Collectors
Fair, April, June, September
and November
The Mill Arts Centre, Bellingham Lane,
Rayleigh, SS6 7ED
Open 9.30am – 4pm. Entry £2.50
Theydon Bois Antiques &
Collectables Fair,
12 December 2020, 20 February,
17 April, 18 September and
20 November 2021
Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice
Row, Theydon Bois, CM16 7ER
Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry £1
North Weald (Bassett) Antiques &
Collectables Fair,
6 March & 31 May 2021
North Weald Village Hall, High Road,
North Weald, CM16 6BU
Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry £1
Essex Mountnessing Antiques &
Collectors Fair, 21 March 2021
Mountnessing Village Hall, Roman
Road, Mountnessing, CM15 0UG
Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry £1
Hertfordshire
St Albans Antiques and Vintage
Market, 6 December 2020
St Peters Street, St Albans AL1 3DH
Open 9am – 3pm
Ware Antiques & Collectors Fair plus
Flea Market
Age Concern Hall, Priory Street, Ware,
SG12 0DE
Open 10am-4pm. Entry £1
Big St Albans Antique & Vintage &
Fair, spring 2021
Oaklands College, St Albans Campus,
Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL4 0JA
Open 10am – 4pm. Entry £3
Berkhamsted Antique and Collectors
Fair, 30 May 2021
Berkhamsted Sports Centre,
Lagley Meadow, Douglas Gardens,
Berkhamsted, HP4 3QQ
Open 9.30am-4pm
Sarratt Village Hall Antique &
Collectables Fair, 13 December 2020
Sarratt Village Hall, The Green, WD3 6AS
Open 9am – 4pm. Entry £1
White Knight Bushey Meads
School Fair
Coldharbour Lane, Bushey, WD23 4PA
Open 8.30am-3pm.
Ware Vintage Fair
Ware Drill Hall, 17 Amwell End, Ware,
SG12 9HP
Open 10am-4.30pm. Entry £2
Bedfordshire
P.B’s Antiques & Collectors Fair –
Ampthill
Parkside Hall, Woburn Street, Ampthill,
MK45 2HX
Open 9.30am – 3.30pm. Entry £1
Bedfordshire’s Antiques & Collectors
Fair, 12 December 2020
St Pauls Church, St Pauls Square,
Bedford, MK40 1SQ
Open 10am-4pm. Entry £1
Flitwick Antiques and Collectors Fair,
6 December 2020
Bedfordshire Flitwick Village Hall,
Dunstable Road, Flitwick, Bedfordshire,
MK45 1HP
Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair,
17 January, 2021
The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm
Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH
Open 9.30am-4pm. Entry £2
Woburn Antiques and Collectors Fair,
February 2021
Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road,
Woburn, MK17 9QD
31

Open
Every Day
Mon-Sat 9am - 6pm
Sunday & Bank Holidays
10am - 4pm
Days Out Norfolk
Treasures from the Past
“A Fantastic Way to
spend a couple of
Trip Advisor hours or more!!!”
A Great Day
Out For All
The Family
Treasures
& for the Future
15,000ft Square Foot Floor Space - Over 100 Dealers
As Featured on
Bargain Hunt
Antiques,
Collectables,
Vinyl, Jewellery,
Shabby Chic,
Vintage, Retro,
Militaria,
Coins, Medals
Measures for
Safe Shopping:
• Large Enough to Social Distance Safely • Perspex on Tills
Well behaved
dogs welcome
in Antique &
Steiff Shop
East Anglia’s Largest
Selection of Steiff Bears
& Animals
Plus
www.thesteiffshop.com
Garage Lane, SETCHEY,
King’s Lynn PE33 0BE (Just off the A10 - turn at JSW Car Sales)
Tel:01553 812000 www.warehouseantiques.co.uk
FREE
Parking
Wheelchair
Friendly
• Disabled toilet
• One floor
Nextdoor to
Beers of Europe
Small-Ad-Antiques-Steiff-107x148.indd 1 04/11/2020 05:49
32

YOUR
WINTER
WELLNESS
STAYCATION –
SORTED
Written by Abby Knight
Whether your idea of a winter staycation
is a relaxing spa treat or a brisk walk on
the golf course before a cosy dinner, our
round-up of the best spa and golf breaks
to take together will help you find the one
to suit you best
GREENWOODS HOTEL & SPA
Stock, Essex
What’s on offer: Nestled in 28 acres of pretty Essex countryside,
The Winter Warmer Break includes a stay in a double standard
room, full use of the spa facilities and friendly gym, three course
dinner in the award-winning Ellis’s restaurant and full English or
continental breakfast.
You’ll also enjoy the Body Nectar Nourishing Frangipani wrap; 65
minutes of pure indulgence!
Price: £349 based on two people sharing a double room.
Available Sunday to Friday, 1 November to 28 February 2021.
Please quote ‘Eastlife’ when booking.
www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk
THORPENESS GOLF CLUB & HOTEL
Thorpeness, Suffolk
What’s on offer: Tucked away on the Suffolk Heritage Coast,
the Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel is offering winter golf breaks
for couples looking to play a round or two of golf together.
Regarded as one of the finest golf courses in Suffolk, Thorpeness
was designed by five-time Open Champion James Braid. The
6,311-yard, par 70 course will appeal to golfers of all abilities.
Tuition can be arranged with a member of the pro team.
The offer includes a three-course dinner in the delightful
Ogilvie’s restaurant and two rounds of golf.
Price: The Winter Break costs from £105 for one night based on
two people sharing a standard room, including breakfast. Dogs
are welcome too.
www.thorpeness.co.uk
34

UFFORD PARK GOLF AND SPA
Woodbridge, Suffolk
What’s on offer: Set in 120 acres of stunning historic parkland,
if you play golf, at any level, you’ll certainly enjoy playing at
Ufford Park Woodbridge, Hotel, Golf and Spa. Spread across
120 acres of lush parkland, the18-hole, par 71 award-winning
course is perfect for all intermediate and experienced players –
and everyone in between. You can combine a his and her stay
with a trip to the spa – just book the treatments on arrival so you
can relax when you want.
Price: From £130 from Sunday to Thursday night, The Spa
Indulgence Break includes three hours in the Thermal suite spa,
plus a 30-minute treatment of your choice.
www.uffordpark.co.uk
DUNSTAN HALL
Norwich, Norfolk
What’s on offer: Situated in 15 acres of Norfolk parklands,
this stunning fully restored manor house hotel has all you
need to enjoy some serious pampering with the Autumn Spa
Breakaway. The package includes breakfast, a delicious dinner,
plus a choice of a relaxing 50-minute treatment that includes
a ‘Fit for Business Back Ritual’ or a choice of two 25-minute
treatments such as the ‘Free Style Deep Tissue Massage’. You
can also enjoy the relaxing pool and spa facilities.
Price: From £109 per person with breakfast.
www.dunstanhallhotel.co.uk
CHAMPNEYS TRING
Tring, Hertfordshire
What’s on offer: Once owned by the wealthy Rothschild family,
Champneys Tring has been a bastion of health since 1925 and
while it remains faithful to its health farm roots, it’s also moved
with the times and offers traditional spa treatments as well as
one of the UK’s first Marine and Wellness Spas. Book yourself a
night away for any arrival date until the end of January and you’ll
have your stay extended for an extra night, completely free.
Your stay includes use of the award-winning spa facilities and
expert-led fitness classes, delicious food, gym access, bed,
breakfast, nutritious lunch and three-course dinner.
Price: From £470 per couple
www.champneys.com
AND FOR A REAL BREAK AWAY….
GALGORM SPA & GOLF RESORT
Ballymena, Northern Ireland
What’s on offer: Plan your next golfing getaway at Galgorm
Spa & Golf resort; a fabulous hotel base set close to the stunning
Northern Irish town of Ballymena. The Tee Up package includes
an overnight stay in a luxurious Resort Guestroom, complete
with complimentary mini bar and everything you need to
ensure a relaxing stay. Once you’ve enjoyed your round of golf
in the stunning, rolling countryside, you can succumb to the
tranquillity of the Thermal Spa Village with a range of indoor and
outdoor spa facilities designed to offer a truly Irish experience.
Price: From £149 per person sharing a double room, valid
Sunday to Friday, includes complimentary mini bar and a la
carte breakfast.
www.galgorm.com
35

Golf and Spa Breaks
one night from £130 per person
Golf and Spa breaks include dinner, bed and breakfast,
as well as either 3 hours in the Thermal Suite Spa and a 30 minute
treatment, or up to two rounds of golf.
For more information, please visit www.uffordpark.co.uk
t: 01394 383555 e: reservations@uffordpark.co.uk

Sponsor a Redwings
rescued horse
Sponsor a rescued
horse or donkey from
as little as £15 a year
and you’ll receive
an adoption pack
including your new
friend’s story and a
stunning photo, plus
access to their online
diary.
Do your little ones like horsing around?
Trot over to our website and check out the
Young Reds At Home Academy!
www.redwings.org.uk/adopt
01508 481000

Off
Grid in
Norfolk
Avoid the crowds and switch off
entirely with a country retreat
in Norfolk
Escape your daily life, crowds and COVID chat, if only
for a few days, with a remote hideaway. We’ve picked
a selection of hidden, luxury cabins tucked away in
Norfolk’s countryside, perfect for a minibreak that gives a
whole new meaning to the phrase “getaway”.
38

Albion Nights
Located in the Waveney Valley, on the Norfolk/Suffolk border, this tranquil cabin offers
the chance to reconnect with nature but on a luxurious scale. Make your way to the
rustic cabin for two via a meadow walk, passing sheep and farmland. The cabin itself
is cute, cosy and boasts some impressive eco-credentials. There’s no electric, but
there is a USB point, powered by solar, if you feel you can’t live without your phone.
Though you may struggle to get a signal, this is about relaxation after all. Hot water and
heat come from the wood burner and the accommodation itself has been built using
reclaimed, recycled and reused materials where possible. Take a dip in the outdoor
bathtub or at night stargaze through the skylight above your bed. This is an adult-only
escape, perfect for downtime and getting back to nature. During your stay, check out
the nearby Secret Sauna on the banks of the River Waveney near Bungay.
www.albionnights.co.uk
Nor-Folk; The Water Cabin
Switch off at this Scandi-inspired cottage on the banks of the Norfolk Broads. There’s no
TV or Wi-Fi but don’t panic, use this as a chance to talk to each other. The owners have
purposely chosen not to include an internet connection and have used a stylish, simplistic
design to reinforce a back to basics way of living; think meals together and siblings
bonding over boardgames, free of digital devices. Being free of technology, which keeps
us connected 24/7, provides the opportunity to slow down, unwind and relax. Enjoy
cooking as family and long walks along the river. The refurbished 1930s home sleeps
four, in two bedrooms. Each piece of furniture and accessory has been carefully selected
to suit the space. We promise you’ll come away feeling like a whole new person.
www.nor-folk.com/stays/cabin
Settle
Something a little different. Quirky converted train carriages lie under the canopy of
dense Thetford pine trees. A lakeside retreat, each of the three carriages have their
own rustic design and artisan features but with mod-cons for ease. Surrounded by
nature, take a hike through Thetford Forest, then return to this truly cosy bolthole and
snuggle down in front of the wood burner for a night of pure bliss. In the morning,
wake up and enjoy a breakfast from the hamper provided, stacked with local produce.
In addition to the carriages, there’s also the opportunity to sleep in a cute, cosy cabin
and canvas safari tent, perfect for a wild glamping experience.
www.settlenorfolk.co.uk
West Lexham Tree House
Take your getaway to another level and enjoy a relaxing experience from the comfort
of your very own treehouse. A wonderful escape at any time of year, the treehouses
at West Lexham, sleep between two and six people. High up in the tree, your humble
abode awaits. The surrounding majestic trees, the wooden staircase, furniture and
beautifully handcrafted beds, will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a
fairytale. The ‘garden kitchen’ is a fantastic communal feature, offering a fully equipped
kitchen and cooking station, including a wood-fired pizza oven. In the evening pitch up
around the shared fire bowl and roast marshmallows or head back to your treehouse
and snuggle up with a book in front of the log stove. Wi-Fi is intermittent so you may be
able grab some signal to post your fancy Instagram pic, but make the most of this time
to put away your digital devices.
www.westlexham.org/stay-with-us/tree-houses

One of East Anglia’s oldest commercial vineyards
producing a range of White, Red and Rosé wines
as well as Quality English Sparkling wines.
OPEN
Free admission to vineyard trail & wine-tasting
May to September - Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm
October to April - Fridays & Saturdays - 11am to 4pm
For full contact details and to view our online shop,
please visit our website:
www.shawsgate.co.uk
Shawsgate Vineyard, Badingham Road (B1120),
Framlingham. IP13 9HZ
buy or HIRE A
BEACH HUT in
gorleston
Redevelopment starts THIS Winter
OPEN AS
USUAL
Take the opportunity to buy or
hire a Gorleston Beach Hut for
use between 8am and sunset.
Tel: 01493 846400
More details or to book, visit:
www.gorlestonbeachhuts.co.uk
Central 6 day market
Open Monday to Saturday
Market Days
Wednesday & Saturday all year round,
plus Fridays from May to October
www.greatyarmouthmarket.com
40

Book your Perfect Suffolk Escape
“Ideally located to explore Suffolk’s heritage coast”
Self Catering Cottages and Studios
& Caravan and Motorhome Club CL
E A S T A N G L I A ’ S P R E M I E R C HRI S T M A S F A I R
NEWMARKET RACECOURSE
20 - 22 november 2020
OPENING TIMES
F R I SAT SUN
BOOK T I CKE T S P R E S E N T S G A L O R E . O R G
Mollett’s Farm, Main Road, Benhall,
Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1JY
+44 1728 604547
www.molletts.com bookings@molletts.com
@NHRMuseum
SO MUCH MORE THAN A MUSEUM...!
Come and explore our stunning
fine Artwork and Sculptures, our
family freindly outdoor areas,
fabulous Tack Room restaurant &
bar, gift shop & bakery, plus the
new ‘Sporting Talk’ Exhibition
which opens December 2020 -
please book tickets online.
National Horse Racing Museum
Palace Street, Newmarket,
Suffolk, CB8 8EP
T: 01638 667314
Online booking - www.nhrm.co.uk or check out our socials: @nhrmuseum
41

Winter on
the Suffolk
Coast
The crowds are gone and there’s not a
bucket or spade in sight, but that doesn’t
mean the fun stops on the Suffolk Coast

For those that are in the know, winter is the best time to enjoy the Suffolk Coast. Stroll
along wild, empty beaches, mingle with the locals at cosy pubs by the crackling fire,
escape the hustle and bustle of the high street lined with independent boutiques and
sleep tight at some of the region’s most stylish accommodation.
Where to sleep
You’ll need to make sure you’ve got a good base for your minibreak. Suffolk’s beautiful
coastline and rolling countryside are perfect for a weekend escape, and there are
plenty of romantic boltholes to choose from. What could be more perfect than
spending a cold, winter’s day in front of the fire and sharing a bottle of wine with your
special someone? There are also gorgeous country homes with lots of space for family
breaks. Suffolk Hideaways, Suffolk Secrets and So Southwold offer good options for
self-catering accommodation dotted along the coastline.
If a hotel is more your style, both Aldeburgh and Southwold have exceptional
accommodation choices. If you fancy wrapping up warm and enjoying long walks
on the beach (perfect for burning off those Christmas calories), The Brudenell and
Wentworth Hotel in Aldeburgh and The Swan Hotel and award-winning Crown in
Southwold, are all within easy reach of the shore and local amenities. The White Lion,
which sits opposite Aldeburgh’s pebbly beach and fisherman sheds, has a number of
winter and festive offers.
For country vibes, The Westleton Crown should go to the top of your list. Set in
beautiful countryside, the cosy pub with its log burner, is the perfect place to bunk
down. The pub has winter and Christmas breaks available, including both food and
accommodation.
Places to visit
Spend your days exploring quaint villages and market towns adorned with twinkling
lights, pick up last-minute handmade gifts in boutique stores, and blow away the
cobwebs with a brisk walk on the beach. The Snape Maltings, home to a leading
music centre, and collection of stores, galleries and cafe, is located a short distance
from Aldeburgh. Wander around the stores, take a walk along the river and browse
independent retailers.
The pretty village of Orford is a must-visit. Picture-perfect cottages line the immaculate
roads, the English Heritage castle stands proud and you simply can’t visit without
tasting its famous oysters. The whole village has a rustic vibe, a place time forgot yet it
is home to some of the county’s best produce. Visit Pump Street Bakery, with its freshly
baked goods and famed chocolate. Its exterior, pastel pink wall has become perhaps
one of the most Instagrammed places in Suffolk!
What’s on
This year has been challenging for the events industry and although there’s no
guarantee Christmas events will go ahead, you’re still likely to be able to enjoy regular
markets and tasting tours throughout Suffolk. Take time to enjoy the museums and
places of interest at a leisurely pace.
For a winter wilderness experience visit Dingle Marshes. The reserve attracts breeding
and wintering wildfowl and wading birds, including the elegant avocet, the whitefronted
goose, lapwing and redshank.
Wander the streets of Southwold, where you’ll find cute cafes, independent boutiques,
the famous Adnams brewery if you fancy a festive tipple, and of course fish and chips.
Every year on Boxing Day, swimmers brave the cold and plunge into the sea to raise
money for charity. It’s a fun, festive event. Unfortunately, it’s uncertain whether it will go
ahead this year, but keep checking the council’s website for more details.
43

Fournel Jewellers At The Amber Shop
SOUTHWOLD
For you very special day come and be inspired
by our specialist range of gem, diamond and
engagement jewellery.
15, Market Place, Southwold, IP18 6EA | 01502 723394 | www.ambershop.co.uk
The Courtyard is an imaginatively designed and conceived development of
Care Housing offering full 24 hour care in your own home. There are both one
and two bedroom bungalows and houses. A connecting corridor, via the rear
door, gives access to a dining room, where residents and their visitors may share
a meal, a spacious lounge with conservatory and decking area overlooking an
attractive landscaped pond. This corridor also enables staff to respond to calls
via the Care Call system at any time, night or day.
All properties have a fitted kitchen complete with hob, built-in oven, extractor
fan and space for a washer-dryer. Alternatively full laundry services are available.
Trained staff from the linked and connecting Chilton Court Care Home carry out
all care requirements in your own home, when a care package is optioned, and
are experienced in enabling residents to maintain their independence and
retain their dignity.
01449 675426 info@stowcare.co.uk www.stowcare.co.uk
Stowcare Ltd, Chilton Court, Gainsborough Road, Stowmarket Suffolk, IP14 1LL
44

Affordable Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture Made Without Compromise
Affordable Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture
Made Without Compromise
Knights have 40 years of experience in designing unique kitchens that have exceeded our
customer’s expectations time and time again. No matter what idea you have in mind,
we can bring your bespoke kitchen designs to life.
01787 277914 | www.knightscountrykitchens.co.uk
Knights Farm, Stoke Road, Clare, Suffolk C010 8HH

Eat Your Way
Around Essex
Hop in your car and take in the sights,
sounds and tastes of Essex
Written by Emma Kemsley
The staycation is here to stay, and Essex should be top of your
list! There’s so much more to discover than TOWIE. In fact, Visit
Essex, its official tourism board, recently released a campaign
‘This is Essex’; a short video which aims to change people’s
perception of the county’s stereotype.
Beyond the fake tan and bling, there is plenty to explore. From
coast to country the best way to discover Essex’s charms is by
car. Meander through winding country lanes, passing through
picturesque villages heading towards rustic shores.
One of Essex’s lesser known gems is its food. The county is
home to an abundance of producers specialising in juice, meat,
seafood, confectionary, wine and more. Let’s not forget this fair
county has turned out some of the best chefs in the business;
Jamie Oliver and the Galvin Brothers, who are Michelin-star
accredited. Check out their restaurant at the Galvin Green Man
in Great Waltham, near Chelmsford.
If you’re looking for a road trip with a difference, get behind
the wheel and follow your hunger with pitstops at seafront
restaurants, micro-breweries, artisan bakeries and vineyards.
Start your journey towards the East in Burnham-on-Crouch;
Essex wine country. Here you could easily confuse the
landscape for Tuscany as you drive pass rows and rows
of vines.
Stop at Crouch Ridge Vineyard; a wine barn, cellar and vineyard
all rolled into one. Tours and tastings are offered throughout
the year. Owner Ross guides the tours, leading groups through
the rows of vines used to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
He explains how this area of the UK, due to its climate, is now
rivalling France in the wine stakes. Thanks to the River Crouch,
the temperature stays above freezing meaning a harvest
is rarely ruined by frost. The tour is followed by a tasting of
three wines complete with notes and tasting tips. Book lunch
afterwards in the restaurant, where you can dine al fresco
on the terrace overlooking the vineyard and river. Wine is
available to purchase, and the Althorne Pinot Cuvee is highly
recommended.
Head North passing through Maldon where you can pick up its
famous salt and local ale from the Maldon Brewing Co. Stretch
your legs with a walk along the Blackwater to Heybridge Basin.
46

For an overnight stay seek out the private dwellings on Osea
Island. The island is only accessible at low tide for a
period of four hours where cars can be driven across. At other
times a river taxi ferries you back and forth. Steeped in history,
here the island is your playground. Far away from noise and
light pollution at night the stars glisten. Open a bottle of local
wine, sit back and enjoy.
From here, head further north again to the pretty village of
Tiptree, famed for its jam. The Jam Factory is open to visitors
and offers an insight into the jam-making process and history of
this village’s legacy. Don’t leave without trying an afternoon tea
of freshly baked, warm fruit scones, cream and jam. Dine in the
restaurant with its traditional oak beams or during the summer
sit outside on the terrace. You can even return to your childhood
and request a specially made jam sandwich!
For the next stop on your foodie adventure, head East towards
the shores of Mersea Island. Essex has 350 miles of coastline
with each seaside town offering something special. While
crowds make their way to Southend on Sea for fish and chips,
cockles at Leigh on Sea and candyfloss at Walton-on-the-Naze,
Mersea Island remains fairly undeveloped. Pastel coloured
beach huts line the shore, the worn wooden jetty leads you
to the water and the discarded oyster shells are a sign of its
crop. The West Mersea Oyster Bar and The Company Shed are
two, no thrills restaurants, located on the waterfront. Wooden
panelled and weathered but with queues out the door
year-round.
The oysters are the biggest sell at The West Mersea Oyster Bar;
stacks of large shells piled on ice, complete with accompanying
garnishes. If oysters aren’t for you, try the seafood platters with
crab, cockles, prawns and more or the slabs of freshly fried fish
complete with chunky chips.
The Company Shed keeps it simple with dressed crabs, juicy
lobster slathered in garlic butter, crab cakes, mussels and
scallops. You’re welcome to bring your own bread and wine
too, though the white wine from the local vineyard is certainly
worth a try.
It’s easy to work your way around Essex feasting from the
land. However, should you require a hearty pub roast, head to
Constable Country.
Walk along the river at Dedham to work up an appetite and eat
at one of the village’s cosy pubs.
For Christmas, Essex doesn’t disappoint either. Kelly Bronze
turkeys are reared in Danbury, Cole’s Christmas Puddings are
manufactured in Saffron Walden and Fairfield Crisps are created
using potatoes farmed in Colchester.
The food tour doesn’t stop there, if you’re looking to brush up
on your cookery skills, book yourself a place at one of the many
cookery schools; The Mistley Kitchen in Manningtee and The
Cookery School at Braxted Park, both offer a range of worldly
cuisine workshops.
TOP TIP: Plan your trip to Essex with the easy to use,
itinerary builder at www.visitessex.com
47

Home & Pet Sitting Service
All our sitters are professional people who are fully vetted,
police checked and issued with ID cards.
We serve a 30 mile radius of Cambridge
01223 832604
Or email jill.pendlebury@talktalk.net
www.happitails.co.uk
Luxury Vinyl Tiles & Planks • Rugs • Carpets • Vinyl Flooring
Cowdray Carpet Centre
01206 768376
Unit 5, Cowdray Centre, Mason Road (off Cowdray Avenue), Colchester CO1 1BX
www.cowdraycarpetsltd.co.uk
Home Service Available Select your flooring in the comfort of your own home
48

We all love to spoil our pets, especially at
Christmas. Fletcher’s Christmas stocking gets
bigger every year. It’s full of new toys, chews
and treats, all of which I individually wrap as he
likes to tear open the paper.
It’s almost as if Fletcher understands that
Christmas Day is special. He’ll cry to get up
earlier than usual, he runs around the house
with excitement and dives head-first into
his stocking, pulling out each gift. In reality
it’s probably the smell of the treats that gets
him over excited, but I’d like to think it’s his
intelligence.
Our Christmas morning is spent opening
presents. Fletcher’s stocking first of course,
while we drink tea and eat the festive edition
M&S biscuits. Fletcher is allowed one treat to
enjoy while we open our gifts. He usually opts
for a Pedigree Jumbo. We then wrap up warm,
pop on Fletcher’s festive collar and head out for
a long, frosty walk.
Even my family buy Fletcher presents. By the
end of the day he has a new fully stocked toy
basket. With online searches for buying a puppy
increasing by 120% over lockdown, and from
the number of bouncy puppies I have seen
on my recent dog walks, we’re going to need
inspiration for doggy gifts. Fortunately, earlier
this year, Aldi launched its Pet Essentials range.
Tails About
Town:
Pampered Pooch
Written by Emma Kemsley
If you’re looking to buy a present for your dog
or a family or friends’ pet, their range is certainly
worth a browse. There’s a choice of beds, chew
toys, trendy bowls and even items such as an
automatic ball launcher, a pet staircase and pop
up play pen. I tried the play pen for Fletcher,
thinking it would stop him causing carnage in
our friend’s gardens when we visit. He sat in it for
a mere 20 seconds, looked at me and hopped
straight out. This one might be better suited for
puppies or small pooches.
Fletcher was impressed with the toys. He loved
the football sized ball with chew ropes attached.
In fact, it temporarily replaced ‘red’, his favourite
toy bone. He loved shaking it around, bouncing
it on his nose and playing tug of war.
I’ve already started collecting treats for
Fletcher’s stocking. I smuggle them into the
house and put them in a safe hiding place,
far away from his inquisitive spaniel nose. I’m
still yet to decide on which toys to buy him,
however they’ll be squeak free – nobody needs
that noise on Christmas Day!
49

Opening minds
fulfilling hearts
For Open Days...
www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk
For individual visits year round...
admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk
St. Francis’ College
LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY
PREPARATORY - SENIOR - SIXTH FORM - BOARDING

Open
Day
Checklist
Make the most of a school’s open
day by knowing what to look out for
and key questions to ask.
Visiting prospective schools during
their open days and evenings provides
a more in-depth understanding of a
school, a chance to tour the facilities, and
the opportunity to talk with faculty and
administration. As you visit each school,
there are certain aspects worth knowing.
51

“
Being part of
the academy
helped me
achieve my
ambition to
study at an
American
university on
a full tennis
scholarship.
Kira
Former Tennis Scholar
Independent boarding and day school for boys and girls aged 1 to 18 years
Culford School Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP28 6TX
Culford School is a Registered Charity No 1142794 Administered by Methodist Independent Schools Trust Company Registration 7649422
Excellent.
In all categories.
ISI INSPECTION REPORT 2020
Scholarships
Available for 11+,13+ and 16+ entry
If you would like to find out more about the
scholarships available at Culford, please contact
our friendly Admissions team on 01284 385308
who will be delighted to help you.
In the meantime, why not visit our Virtual Open
Morning where you will gain an insight into life
at Culford and the wonderful opportunities that
await your child.
Ready
Culford
Life
APPLICATION DEADLINE
FRIDAY 8 JANUARY 2021

Academic life
Children go to school to learn, right?
Yet there’s more to academics than the
core curriculum. Each school provides
for students differently; some schools
may have a gifted and talented program
as well as support for children who
need additional help. A well-rounded
education lets your child experience
more than just the basic subjects. Some
schools include drama and music as part
of the curriculum. Some put a curriculumwide
emphasis on the environment.
Other schools involve students in
community service or organise local
internships. Do students go on trips or
excursions to complement in-school
learning? For older students, it’s worth
knowing the GCSE and A Level subject
range to ensure that your child’s interests
are met.
Facilities
Technology features widely at many
schools. Some schools have site-wide
Wi-Fi as well as an up-to-date ICT
suite. As you tour a school, look for its
distinctive features such as a music
room, drama hall, gymnasium, dance
studio, swimming pool, tennis courts,
art room and science laboratories. What
are the sports fields like, and for younger
students, are there different play areas?
Is the environment and sustainability
important to the school? Some schools
grow their own vegetables for use in the
school kitchen. Other schools have a
comprehensive recycling programme.
The classroom
experience
A positive classroom experience inspires
even the most reluctant student and
forms life-long learners. As you tour a
school, ask about the faculty. Are they
all qualified teachers? Do they hold
degrees in the subjects they teach –
even advanced degrees? Classroom
size is also important as well as the
teacher to student ratio. Do students
receive individual attention? Also, do
the classrooms contain interactive
whiteboards? Do students use
computers during lessons? How does
each school ensure that the overall
classroom experience is effective,
accessible, and memorable?
Clubs
Clubs make a school a community
by bringing together students and
teachers outside of the classroom.
What club would your child want to
join? Some clubs might include drama,
art, music, dance, choir, printmaking,
the school magazine and newspaper,
sciences, foreign languages, maths,
public speaking, debating, equestrian,
trampolining, swimming, rugby, cricket,
football and badminton. Some school
clubs are involved in school-to-school
competitions or have links to outside
clubs and professionals.
Parent involvement
No parent likes unpleasant surprises
when it comes to their child’s progress.
Besides scheduled back-to-school
nights, it’s useful to know how the school
communicates with parents – and viceversa
– on a regular basis. Some schools
have blogs that are updated regularly by
the various heads. Do teachers keep in
touch with parents through telephone
calls, e-mail messages or notes in
the school bag? Can parents e-mail
teachers with questions or concerns?
This is especially important for boarding
students – as is easy communication
with the boarder’s houseparent.
After-school activities
After-school activities are an important
complement to daily learning. Some
after-school activities that may be
on offer are; sports (such as football,
tennis or Karate) and classes in foreign
language, art, music, cookery, pottery,
dance and drama. Some schools employ
professionals to teach these classes; for
example, a professional dancer teaches
ballet or a local artist teaches art classes.
53

100% pass rate in 49 subjects
99.9% A Level Pass Rate
70% of students achieved grades A* - C
100% Pass Rate in 49 subjects
Apply now
www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk /
Apply-Now

LITTLE EAST
Mum’s the Word:
Yule Celebration
Written by Dolly Osborne
So, 2020, quite a year, eh? I’m sure that I’m not the only person
that will not only be glad to see the back of this year but who
also is determined to make the most of the good times that
we are still able to have. Not only will my Christmas tree be
going up in November so that I can revel in the twinkly lights
for as long as possible but also this year I plan to bring in some
older traditions that feel appropriate for a year as mixed and
challenging as this one has been.
The Winter Solstice is on 21 December and is when the longest
night occurs. To mark this occasion, I plan to gather our family
around for a small Yule celebration. We have already found our
Yule log on a trip out to the woods together and rather than this
one being chocolate cake and ganache, we will dress it with
holly from the garden and a candle for each of us.
Traditionally Yuletide was a time to look back on the bad things
that have happened in the year and to search for lessons, for
light in the darkness. As a family we plan to sit around the table
and talk about the difficulties that the year brought each of us
and then sharing the light that may have accompanied each of
these difficulties. It can be a time for the family to put to bed
the troubles of 2020 ready for the hope and happiness of
a New Year.
The candles on the Yule Log can be lit to light our way out of
the dark solstice and into a bright new year. I’m no longer lucky
enough to have an open fire but if I did I would burn my Yule log
upon it and hope that the troubles of 2020 blow away with the
smoke and that 2021 will be bright and happy for us all. Perhaps
indulging in that other type of Yule log as well.
Merry Christmas & a blessed Yule to you all.
Read more from Dolly at
www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com
Twitter @Osborneosaurus
You can also use this time to discuss
your hopes for the year to come and
either write them down and attach
them to the Yule Log or keep
them safe in an envelope for
next winter to see if our hopes
came to fruition.
55

Colchester Royal Grammar School
6 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 - www.crgs.co.uk
Ranked top in the region in The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2020
Virtual Sixth Form Open Evening
Tuesday 3rd November - 7.00pm
Visit our website for a virtual tour of the school, a welcome from the
Headmaster, and talks about the different subject departments
Deadline for Sixth Form applications - Tuesday 1st December
56

AUDITION DAY
Sunday 28th February 2021
Stageworks College is a full time
specialist performing arts college
for ages 16-21. We are based in
Cambridgeshire with a range of
student houses for those moving
away from home. We offer BTEC
Level 3 Performing Arts courses
specialising in either acting or
musical theatre, with fully funded
options for eligible students. Both
programmes prepare students with
the technical skills and performance
training to access degree and higher
level vocational courses.
RECEIVE 50% OFF
AUDITION FEE
WHEN QUOTING
‘EASTLIFE’
ON APPLICATION
FREE
EXPERIENCE DAY
Tuesday 30th March 2021
www.stageworksstudio.co.uk info@stageworksstudio.co.uk 01480 223331
eastlife
Explore, visit, take part and connect
with Creative Hertfordshire
www.creativehertfordshire.com
You’re a click away from a county full of possibilities
Next Issue….
Little East will be looking at spring
days out at farms and zoos for you
and your little ones
Find out what’s on, what to do, where to go and how to take
part across Hertfordshire. Dance, make, sing, visit – Creative
Hertfordshire is the one website that’s got it all covered. All
you need to do is sign-up for our regular news alerts - it’s quick,
easy, and FREE. Are you a creative individual, organisation
or business? Showcase your work, expand your network and
attract new customers by creating a free online profile.
Visit www.creativehertfordshire.com now and start
discovering a county full of possibilities.
Because one site is all you need to get creative.
57

Winter
activities
for
children
The current on-going pandemic might
have spoiled some of our favourite
seasonal events, but there’s still plenty
for families to discover across the region
this winter.
Written by Liz Mattock | www.wolfauthor.com
East Anglia is blessed with lots of outdoor space, so while
social-distancing is top of our priority list, wrap up warm and
enjoy the day at an outdoor attraction.
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 2LF
Keep the kids entertained this winter with a trip to the zoo. ZSL
Whipsnade is home to over 3,400 creatures, from beautiful
butterflies to the scariest wolverines. If the weather isn’t so good,
you can stay in your car and join the safari.
Social distancing rules are in place with numerous hand
sanitiser stations. There can be no more than six people in your
group and they must be from two households only. Face masks
should be worn at all times unless sat at a table in the café.
www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo
Battlefield Live
Old Hall Farm, French Drove, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire,
PE6 0PE
Laser tag with a difference – it’s outdoors, it’s muddy and it’s
even more fun. Suitable for children aged from seven-yearsold.
The games mirror military exercises and there are various
scenarios to complete such as the Capture and Hold a Base,
Sniper Alley, Rescue the VIP, team combat and more, plus you
can play in all weathers, including snow!
Check the website before you set off as some areas of
the attraction are still closed and some are open but with
restrictions.
www.battlefieldlive-peterborough.co.uk
58

LITTLE EAST
Paper Mill Lock & Tea Rooms
North Hill, Little Baddow, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 4BS
Pick a cold, crisp, sunny day, wrap up warm and take the
children on this canal side adventure. Open from 10am daily,
seven days a week, the lock offers visitors a 14-mile walk with
the tea rooms nestled nicely at the seven-mile point. Picnic
benches are also available if you wish to take your own packed
lunch. Social distancing measures are in place as well as
multiple sanitiser points to keep your family safe. The lock is
prone to flooding so do check on their Facebook page before
you visit.
www.facebook.com/
PaperMillLockCruisesandTheOldStableTearoom
Hertford Murder Mystery Treasure Trail
Hertford, SG13 7AJ
Head to the website to purchase your guide for just £9.99 and
take part in a self-guided murder mystery treasure trail around
Hertford. A variety of trails are on offer from two-miles to 17-miles
long, depending on how energetic you are feeling. It is suitable
for most ages but steps will prove challenging for pushchairs
and wheelchair users.
Social distancing rules apply but as this is a self-guided activity
and your group does not exceed more than six people from two
households, you are free to explore any time of the year. Visit the
website to buy your trail map and get more information.
www.treasuretrails.co.uk/things-to-do/hertfordshire/
hertford.
Get up with the birds
Various locations, Norfolk
Wrap up warm with woolly hats, scarves and gloves and get up
at 7am to watch the sunrise on the Norfolk Coast. You will be
treated to a magnificent display of Norfolk’s migratory birdlife.
There are a number of RSPB sites along the Norfolk Coast that
offer look out posts, including Snettisham, Titchwell Marsh,
Blakeney, Morston Quay and Holkham, plus many more. There
are so many to choose from you could easily visit a different one
each weekend over the winter and get the children to create a
log of the birds they spot along the way.
www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/wildlife-in-norfolk/
nature-reserves
Explore Suffolk from your armchair
Yes, you read that right. Get yourself a big bowl of popcorn, a
cup of tea for you and a juice for the kids, and sit down in front
of the computer or TV to learn all about the history of Suffolk.
The area is steeped in history, bathed in mystery and medieval
stories. Hosted by Visit Suffolk, the films are a great way for the
whole family to learn about new places. It also means you can
avoid big crowds, you don’t need to wear a facemask and you
can stay indoors, and keep nice and warm this winter.
www.visitsuffolk.com/films
59

Merry
Christmas
make it a jolly holiday with
a meal at the
King’s Head at Ivinghoe
Festive Menu @ £31.75
reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk
Tel: 01296 668388
www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk
Sugar and spice make Christmas nice!

FOOD & DRINK
On the Menu
Take & Bake
The home delivery pizza brand, Homeslice, has announced it is extending its
delivery service beyond London and will be available across Norfolk, Suffolk,
Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. The ‘Take & Bake’, 12inch
pizzas, arrive in a cool bag are fully prepared with fresh toppings, ready for home
baking or freezing. There’s meat, veggie and vegan options available so no one is
left out. Orders are available Tuesday to Saturday via
www.greatfood2u.co.uk/restaurant/homeslice-pizza/
Turkey for the Win
Morton’s Family Farm in North Norfolk have been awarded a 3-star Great Taste
award for its Norfolk Black free-range turkey. Judged by 144 of the most discerning
palates, belonging to food critics, chefs, cooks, restaurateurs, buyers, retailers and
producers, the turkeys were praised as “a beautiful, well-proportioned bird.”
Morton’s have been gearing up for Christmas since early June,
when 1500-day old Norfolk Black and Bronze chicks arrived for the slow rearing
process ahead of the festive season. The award-winning turkeys will be on sale
alongside cockerels and artisan hampers filled with local produce, available for
delivery nationwide. www.mortonsfarm.co.uk
Coastal Spirit
If you ever needed an excuse to head to Aldeburgh’s seafront, this is it. Fisher’s
Gin, has opened its doors overlooking the pebbled beach. Officially the closest
distillery to the sea in the UK, tours and tasting experiences are available, and it is
conveniently located next to the Brudenell Hotel if you have one too many! There’s
an outdoor terrace for summer and lounge space with a woodburner for the colder
months. The 90-minute tour, priced £30, offers an insight into the history and origins
of Fisher’s and the local area, the gin-making process and a tutored tasting with an
exclusive try of unreleased varieties and seasonal cocktails. There’s also a botanical
tea-making experience, where guests can make their own blend!
www.fishersgin.com
Greek to your Door
London’s Greek street food brand The Athenian, has launched a Deliveroo Editions
kitchen in Cambridge, offering online deliveries of fresh, Greek fare. To celebrate
the launch The Athenian will be offering a 25% discount until 22 November.
If you’re craving the tastes of Greece, Souvlaki and Gyros will be on offer, as well as
modern favourites such as halloumi fries and feta and courgette fritters.
61

HUNTINGDON TOWN HALL
The beautifully restored Grade II* Listed Georgian Town Hall is situated on
the historic Market Square in Huntingdon. The building boasts two
renovated Court Rooms to provide a unique and intimate setting for up to
60 guests. For larger ceremonies, the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber
provide elegant spaces for parties of up to 120.
We are currently taking bookings for 2021. If you are interested in booking,
please get in touch by emailing Hayley.burns@huntingdontown.gov.uk or
call 01480 410380. Please be assured that in the event that your booking is
impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, we will work with you to reschedule or
cancel your booking at no cost.
For more information on Huntingdon Town Hall weddings,
visit www.huntingdontownweddings.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK
The Cambridge Foodie
Cooking has never been so much fun
Gerla de Boer | www.cambridgefoodtour.com
It’s that time of the year again, what will be hot next year?
Will you be eating out or staying in? The hospitality industry
was faced with a huge challenge this year and had to
reinvent itself. Under pressure, often the best things are
born, and that certainly has been the case.
Michelin star restaurants turned their delicious creations
into food at home, local restaurants deliver your favourite
dishes to your door, and businesses have started using
Zoom for cookery classes and masterclasses. It is quite
clear that the English public wants to be entertained and
have something to look forward to. Zoom masterclasses
are the new hot thing!
One of the great advantages is that you can have a fun time
with more than six. Local businesses in Cambridge now
offer chocolate, wine and cheese tasting via Zoom with
unlimited numbers. A few months ago, Novi Cambridge
hosted a cocktail masterclass via Zoom for one of the
colleges. They organised cocktail shakers, the glasses
and the ingredients. I wish I had been a fly on the wall. It
must have been fun seeing all the participants shaking the
cocktails at the same time.
How does a Zoom masterclass work? Once you have
booked the masterclass of your choice, you will either be
sent a list of ingredients or you’ll receive the list of products
which are needed for the event. You have to buy these
yourself.
The next step is the masterclass. An invite will be sent
by email, and you simply click on the link to join the
Zoom event. The fun will start here. You will be able to
comment, crack a joke and ask questions. It is definitely a
fun alternative to the traditional masterclass. Keen to join a
cook along every week? That’s possible too.
Here are some of my favourite businesses for weekly cook
along and Zoom masterclasses:
Zoom masterclass
Cambridge Cheese Company
Mama Bombon
Que Rico Tapas
Novi Cambridge
Weekly cook along
Camfit Nutrition
Meat Smoke and Fire
Not too keen on Zoom masterclasses?
These businesses are open for business with
restricted numbers:
Cambridge Cookery School
Bibi’s Indian Cookery Classes at your home
Gourmandises Academy
63

BUTCHER • BAKER • FISHMONGER • DELI
• Farm Shop & Deli Show ‘Retailer of the Year 2016’
• Individual Food Hero Award – Aylsham Show 2013
• Best Food & Drink Supplier – Aylsham Show 2014
• Finalist, Innovation of the Year – Butcher of the Year Awards 2014
• East Anglian Champion – Farm Shop & Deli Awards 2014 and 2015
• Finalist, Butcher of the Year – Farm Shop & Deli Awards 2016
• Finalist, Butcher of the Year – Countryside Alliance ‘Rural Oscars’ 2016
ARTHUR HOWELL
WWW.ARTHURHOWELL.COM
WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA • BURNHAM MARKET
NOW IN THE FOOD HALL AT CREAKE ABBEY

FOOD & DRINK
Norwich
Eats:
Burger
Wars
Written by Zena Leech-Calton
www.lovenorfolkfood.co.uk
It’s a battle of the burgers in Norwich. FUPburger have made a
big impact on the dirty dripping food scene with pop ups in local
pubs and beer gardens. Pictures adorned social media with
the locally famous double pressed meat patties, cooked to a
succulent medium in local artisan toasted bread, crispy Clarke’s
bacon and dripping in cheese with a secret, slightly, oh so tasty
spiced sauce. Tom, the original Fry Up Police (FUP), launched his
burger brand last year at Latitude and COVID pulled him back to
serve hundreds of pre-ordered and drop-in burgers over summer
and beyond.
I’ve always loved a Gonzo’s burger. It’s the whole package; a
quirky space, dirty burgers and lovely, hand cut fries. They make
and cut them fresh every morning.
Harry’s, which opened last year in Chapelfield Gardens in the
old Pedro’s spot, knock out a good one too – lovely quality, adult
toppings and a tasty ‘cook how you like’ meat patty. I like mine
medium, leaving it nice and juicy. Always a toasted bun and you
get a smokey BBQ taste from the char, leaving a lovely aroma,
textures and flavours.
Earlier this year The Ribs of Beef got a new pop up; The Recipe
Kitchen. I’ve not managed to go yet but they look super tasty on
social media and they do a chicken and waffle option too.
Just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, after all,
we do have a Five Guys (surely, the best fast food chain burger
around), plus Byron’s (decent too), a new pop-up pub kitchen
takeover has emerged called The Beasty Boys Grill at the Steam
Packet, located at the back of Anglia TV. It’s a new level of dirty
here, with the ‘Beast’ double burger offering hand pressed local
butchers meat patties in-between two layers of cheese, a toasted
local artisan sesame roll with a zingy house sauce and frazzles for
a little crunch, along with thick cut, crispy streaky bacon.
Then (and this is a final then), we had Fat Elvis in lockdown
– formed from the owners of Don Txoko, a Spanish Basque
style restaurant on St Benedict’s Street. They came up with a
fried chicken sandwich and launched it via their kitchen as a
Fat Elvis takeaway delivery service during COVID. The people
spoke and the people loved it, so much so that it was brought
back on a Monday and Tuesday during Augusts Eat out to
Help Out scheme. They also serve a don burger made from
their salt fridge aged beef and of course, their 48-hour loved
fried chicken thigh burger with spiced sauce and pickles. They
season their fries with salted crispy chicken skin…oh lord!
‘Sall’s Lokma’ opened this year too on Rose Lane, selling
burgers such as the ‘Mediterranean’ with homemade garlic
sauce and charred courgettes and aubergine. They also do a
veggie burger with a red beetroot bun. They also make Lokma;
a Mediterranean donut. You’ll find this on the streets of Turkey
and beyond – fresh yeast dough, deep fried in to small balls
until super crispy. It’s traditionally soaked in stock syrup and
drizzled with honey but ‘Sall’ does a VIP version filled with either
custard, cream or chocolate sauce, and then topped with your
choice of toppings.
Norwich has seen some good street food markets and pop ups
this summer, but Norwich Market remains my favourite. Cuppie
Hut expanded into a bigger unit. The boys at Sicilian Street have
also got a little trattoria and pizzeria on Bridewell Alley in the old
mustard shop. Plus, Christopher Crepes has a new crepe and
ice cream café in the old Tofurei on Pottergate, while Torfurei
went larger with more seating on Greggory’s Alley.
What’s next? Christmas. Whatever the rules and regulations are,
it’s sure to be a different kind of Christmas this year but local
businesses still need your support. So even if you can’t go in
your masses, you can still support solo or in smaller groups. And
don’t forget, calories don’t count at Crimbo time!
Follow Zena at
@love_Norwich_Food
YouTube: Dyslexic Chef
65

From
Farm to
Fork
Suffolk
Maple Farm
Kelsale, Saxmundham
www.maplefarmkelsale.co.uk
Hollow Trees Farm Shop
A1141, Semer, Ipswich IP7 6HX
www.hollowtrees.co.uk
Longwood Farm
Tuddenham St. Mary, Bury St. Edmunds
www.facebook.com/
LongwoodOrganicFarmShop
Suffolk Food Hall
Wherstead, Ipswich
www.suffolkfoodhall.co.uk
Find the best farm
shop near you
Farm shops offer prime, locally sourced
and seasonal meats, produce and
homemade treats. As winter hits there’s
nothing quite like a Sunday roast, veggie
soup or tasty cake to give you that nice,
warm feeling. Of course, farm shops
are a great choice for stocking up on
Christmas food and perfect for avoiding
supermarket crowds.
To make life simple, we’ve pulled
together our pick of the best farm shops
across East Anglia.
Norfolk
Wiveton Hall Farm Shop
Wiveton Hall, Holt
www.wivetonhall.co.uk/farm-shop
White House Farm
Sprowston, Norwich
www.norwich-pyo.co.uk
Back to the Garden
Letheringsett, Holt
www.back-to-the-garden.co.uk
Drove Orchards
Thornham Road, Hunstanton
www.droveorchards.com
Farm to Fork and Fish
Norwich Road, Norwich
www.farmtoforkandfish.co.uk
Algy’s Farm Shop
Billingford Rdoa, Dereham
www.algysfarmshop.co.uk
Groveland Farm Shop
Thorpe Market Road, Roughton
www.grovelandfarmshop.co.uk
Walsingham Farms Shop
Little Walsingham
www.walsingham.co/our-farmshops/walsingham
Green Pastures Plant Centre & Farm
Shop
Mill Road, Bergh Apton
www.greenpasturesnursery.co.uk
Groveland Farm Shop
Thorpe Market Road, Roughton
www.grovelandfarmshop.co.uk
Orchard Farm Shop
Orchard Farm, Norwich
www.orchardfarmshop.com
Cavick House Farm
Cavick Road, Wymondham
www.cavickhousefarm.co.uk
Jimmy’s Farm Butchery & Larder
Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich
www.jimmysfarm.com
Hog & Hen Farmshop
Mill green farm, Debenham Road,
Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket
www.hogandhenfarmshop.co.uk
Alder Carr Farm
Creeting St Mary, Ipswich
www.aldercarrfarm.co.uk
Grange Farm Shop
Grundisburgh Road, Woodbridge
www.facebook.com/
grangefarmshophasketon
Friday Street Farm
Friday Street, Saxmundham
www.fridaystfarm.co.uk
Cambridgeshire
Radmore Farm Shop
Victoria Avenue, Cambridge
www.radmorefarmshop.co.uk
The Gog Farm Shop
Heath Farm, Shelford Bottom,
Cambridge
www.thegog.com
Darwin Nurseries & Farm Shop
Newmarket Road, Cambridge
www.cpft.nhs.uk/Darwinnursery
Bushel Box Farm Shop
130 Station Road, Willingham
www.bushelboxfarmshop.co.uk
Burwash Manor
New Road, Barton
www.burwashmanor.com
Farm Shop at The Old Granary
94 High St, Linton
www.farmshoplinton.com
Anglia Farm Shop
Spring Farm, Bottisham
www.angliafarmshop.co.uk

Ron’s Farm Shop
2 Honey Hill, Fenstanton, Huntingdon
www.facebook.com/ronsfarmshop
La Hogue Farm Shop & Café
La Hogue Road, Chippenham, Ely
www.lahogue.co.uk
The Longhorn Farm Shop
Cuckoo Hill Farm, Oakington Road,
Cottenham
www.facebook.com/
longhornfarmsop
Essex
Calcott Hall Farm Shop
Ongar Road, Brentwood
www.calcotthall.com
Sparrows End Farm Shop
Sparrows Hill House, Newport,
Saffron Walden
www.sparrowsendfarmshop.co.uk
Sarah Green’s Organics
Mark Farm, Tillingham
www.sarahgreensorganics.co.uk
Blackwells Farm Produce & Farm Shop
Colne Rd, Coggeshall, Colchester
www.blackwellsfarmproduce.co.uk
The Green Barn Farm Shop
North Benfleet Hall Fishery, Benfleet
www.greenbarnfarmshop.com
Manor Farm Shop
Maldon Road, Great Baddow,
Chelmsford
www.themanorfarmshopchelmsford.
co.uk
Deersbrook Farm
Shalford Green, Braintree
www.deersbrookfarm.com
Ashlyns Farm Shop
Epping Road, Epping
www.ashlynsfarmshop.co.uk
Spencer’s Farm Shop
Park Road, Halstead
www.spencersfarmshop.com
The Old Woodham Road Farm Shop
Woodham Road, Battlesbridge
www.facebook.com/Old-Woodham-
Road-Farm-Shop
The Outlet Farm Shop Burstead
Tye Common Rd, Billericay
www.facebook.com/Theoutletstore
Barleylands Farm Shop
Southend Road, Billericay
www.barleylands.co.uk/thevillage
Fullers Family Food Hall
Bretts Farm, White Roding, Dunmow
www.fullersfamilyfoodhall.co.uk
Birchwood Farm Shop
Birchwood Road, Dedham, Colchester
www.birchwoodfarmshop.co.uk
C Humphreys & Sons – Retail Farm Shop
Blixes Farm, Rank’s Green, Chelmsford
www.facebook.com/
CHumphreysandSons
Hertfordshire
Foxholes Farm
London Road, Hertford
www.foxholesfarm.com
Carpenter’s Farm Shop
Sandridge, St Albans
www.carpentersnursery.co.uk/
farm-shop
Pearce’s Farm Shop
A10, Hamels Mead, Buntingford
www.pearcesfarmshop.com
Bury Lane Farm Shop
A10, Melbourn, Meldreth, Royston
www.burylanefarmshop.co.uk
Battlers Green Farm
Battlers Green Farm, Common Lane,
Radlett
www.battlersgreenfarm.co.uk
Brookfield Farm Butchery and Village
Stores
Aston End Road, Stevenage
www.brookfield-farm.co.uk
Rumbler’s Farm Shop
Potten End Hill, Water End,
Hemel Hempstead
www.facebook.com/pages/
category/Farm/Rumblers-Farm-
Shop
Farrowby Farm
New Inn Road, Baldock
www.farrowbyopenfarm.co.uk
P E Mead & Sons Farmshop
Lower Icknield Way, Tring
www.pemeadandsons.co.uk
Sarah’s Farm Shop
Greenslade Farm, Ashwell Road,
Steeple Morden, Royston
www.facebook.com/
SarahsFarmShop
Lordship Farm Shop & Tea Room
77 Upton End Road, Shillington, Hitchin
www.lordship-farm-shop-tea-room.
business.site
Wayside Farm
Watford Road, Kings Langley
www.wayside-farm.co.uk
Bedfordshire
Pells Farm Shop
Southend Farm, Renhold Road, Bedford
www.facebook.com/pages/
category/Garden-Center/Pells-farmshop
The Barn Cardington
Cople Road, Cardington, Bedford
www.thebarncardington.com
Black Cat Farm Shop
C/o Roxton Garden Centre, Bedford
www.blackcatfarmshop.co.uk
Franklins Farm Shop & Butchery
Trumpetons Farm, Thorncote Green,
Sandy
www.franklinsfarmbutchers.co.uk
Woodview Farm Shop
Potton Rd, Gamlingay, Sandy
www.woodviewfarm.co.uk
Parkside Farm Shop
55 Southill Rd, Broom, Biggleswade
www.parksidefarmshop.co.uk
Nobbys Farm Shop and
The Baa T-Room
Greenfarm, Leighton Road, GtBillington,
Leighton Buzzard
www.nobbysfarmshop.co.uk
Herrings Green Farm Shop
Cotton End Rd, Wilstead, Bedford
www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk/
Pecks Farm Shop
Stockwell Farm, Leighton Road,
Eggington, Leighton Buzzard
www.pecksfarmshop.co.uk
Woburn Country Foods
West End Farm, W End, Bedford
www.woburncountryfoods.com
Browns of Stagsden
Church Lane, Stagsden, Bedford
www.brownsofstagsden.co.uk
Flitvale Garden Centre
Flitwick Road, Westoning, Bedford
www.flitvalegardencentre.com
The Maulden Farm Shop
Maulden Garden Centre, off, A507,
Maulden
www.mauldenfarmshop.com
67

Townsends Light Blue,
now stocking Ortleib
Panniers and accessories
• Fully waterproof ensures water stays out
• The Premier transport solution for
commuting to world tours
• The range includes PVC FREE Options
With a great range of bikes, cycle accessories
and a fully stocked workshop, we can provide
for all of your cycling needs!
T: 01223 315845 72 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1EP
COVID-19 update. Please check our website for current info.: www.townsends-lb.co.uk
What's worrying you ... ?
Low
Esteem
Stress Anger Anxiety
Low
Mood
Come to a free introductory consultation
with a qualified therapist in Norwich or
Stevenage/Welwyn Garden City
We are offering online therapy via Skype, Zoom, FaceTime, or WhatsApp,
so that you can access the help you need, wherever you are, in total
confidence call / text 07986 488690 or email info@emotionalskills.uk
www.emotionalskills.uk
68

HEALTH
How to
find the
best cycle
routes for
your
commute
By Catherine Ellis, Hill & Ellis
www.hillandellis.com
1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Thanks to local council investment and pressure from
environmental groups, a brilliant network of cycle routes
are popping up all over the country. These routes are often
separated from the main road, and allow you to cycle freely
without having to squeeze past cars and lorries. These routes
have been mapped out and can be downloaded, or even
ordered as a print edition so you can plan your route at home,
over a coffee.
For local maps your local council will have them on their website,
and for countrywide check out Sustrans.
Cambridge – www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/travelroads-and-parking/cycling/cycle-routes-and-maps
Norwich – www.norwich.gov.uk/downloads/file/3488/norwich_
cycle_map
Essex – www.essexhighways.org/getting-around/cycling/routesand-maps.aspx
Country wide: www.sustrans.org.uk/national-cycle-network/
2. GET OFF THE MAIN ROADS
If you want to carve out your own route, get off the main roads.
The main roads might be the most direct path, but they will
definitely not be the most pleasant. Always take the backstreets;
they are quieter, safer and much more interesting as you get
to discover parts of your town or city you would never have
seen before. So give yourself an extra 15 minutes and enjoy the
journey. If you don’t have a great sense of direction, you can
always cheat. Beeline have designed a GPS system that tells
you the direction you need to head in so you can take the back
streets without losing your way.
www.beeline.co/pages/beeline-velo
It’s no secret that cycling is booming and with trains still running
a reduced service and buses crowded, cycling really is the best
way to get to the office.
If you are taking to the saddle to commute the most
important thing you can do is plan your route. Finding
the best cycle routes will transform your journey
from a grind to the favourite part of your day. Here’s
how to find the best cycle route for your bike
commute.
3. GET CONFIDENT
If you don’t have much confidence cycling to work, build it up
with a cycle group. There are many great networks out there,
encouraging people to get on their bikes. One for women is the
Breeze network, which offer group rides. If you want a guide to
start you off on your cycle commute, check them out.
www.letsride.co.uk/breeze
4. KEEP GETTING LOST
After a while, you might think you have found the best route,
but the beauty of cycling is that you can keep exploring. So
when you are on your way home, take a different road, turn
right instead of left or go one road further. One of the
pure joys of commuting by bike is it doesn’t have to be
monotonous.
Keep mixing it up and enjoy the ride!
69

INDEPENDENT DIA B E TES TRUST
DIABETES - HERE TO HELP
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
These booklets provide you with help
and advice about everyday aspects of
living with diabetes
ASK FOR YOUR FREE
COPIES TODAY
Type 1 Diabetes
Know the Facts
A charity supporting and listening to people who live with diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
Diabetes
Everyday Eating
“I want to be told what I can eat – not what I can’t”.
This booklet provides you with help and advice
about everyday eating and a four week menu plan.
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
Email: enquiries@iddtinternational.org
www.iddtinternational.org
martin@iddtinternational.org
Type 2 Diabetes
Management and Medication
Understanding
Your Diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
A charity supporting and listening to people who live with diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
TELEPHONE: 01604 622837 or
EMAIL: martin@iddtinternational.org
InDependent Diabetes Trust
P O Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS.
www.iddtinternational.org
Charity Number: 1058284
Registered Number: 3148360

Fenchurch House Care Home
Fenchurch House provides the kind of care we’d want all of our loved
ones to receive. Our brand new home is luxurious and beautifully
furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes
Fenchurch House feel extra special. In these difficult times the elderly
population is particularly vulnerable at home. If you’re concerned
about how you or a relative will cope and would like to have more
support, Fenchurch House Care Home offers peace of mind and
security, in an exceptional setting.
• 60 luxury en-suite bedrooms
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Book a personal virtual tour call 01775 711 959
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A Simple Guide
to Choosing a
Retirement Home
HEALTH
With retirement villages and care homes
popping up across the UK, the Eastern
region has a boastful selection to choose
from; but how do you decide which is best
for you?
Written by Rebecca Smith | www.glutarama.com
Helping a loved one find a suitable home for a comfortable and
secure future needn’t be a stressful process. My family have
been through it personally with my grandmother. The biggest
step is the first; researching what’s out there and also what
support are you entitled to?
Once you’ve taken that first step, a whole new world opens up
and suddenly you realise this is not a step backwards but a leap
forwards towards your loved one’s improved independence,
making new friends and getting that familiar spark back.
A simple checklist for your perfect retirement/care home
Given our recent experiences I can share with you our
simple checklist of things we wanted Gran to have
access to;
• A private room/living quarters
• En-suite bathroom
• Qualified staff (nursing, caring, catering, hairdressers)
• Landscaped and easy access outdoor space
• Communal dining areas
• Various communal areas to socialise
• Social activities
• Ample parking for visitors
• All this within a specific budget
Visiting each potential care home and retirement village
was the next step. I highly recommend going together
with your loved one followed by a visit to the local coffee
shop afterwards to discuss everyone’s thoughts on the
experience. Even better, in the coffee shop on site if this
is an option.
As with any form of house hunting, buildings blend into
one after a while so it’s advisable to make your pro’s and
con’s lists while the visit is still fresh in your minds.
73

PROM
BRIDESMAIDS
BRIDAL GOWNS
MOTHER OF THE
BRIDE & GROOM
BRIDAL ACCESSORIES
DRESSCODENINE.CO.UK

Interesting Skirts
Written by Ruth Essex | www.ruthessex.com
As we are no longer getting out like we used to, I have made it a rule,
that when I do go out, I make the effort to dress up a little more. I am
so bored with a jeans outfit, I am yearning for something different, so
I have turned my attention back to the skirt. But not just any old skirt,
it has to be an interesting skirt.
Starting at the top end of fashion fun, I fell in love with feathers a
while ago and lengthened one of my party skirts by adding a feather
hem. It added a whole new level of glamour and fabulousness. It
wouldn’t work in Waitrose admittedly, but I am optimistic we shall be
going out for a few holiday-season cocktails and canapes, at some
point this year.
Faux suede makes a lovey daytime skirt choice. Its soft texture is
comfortable to wear, and you can spill with impunity, as it is machine
washable. I like to wear mine with a cosy jumper for the colder days,
and then swap the jumper for a white shirt when indoors.
The third skirt look I find myself attracted to is a multi-layered,
modern boho skirt. These were called gypsy skirts in the 1970s and
the fabrics then, were highly gathered, and tended to billow out.
The new gypsy skirts are lighter, made of chiffon and have a more
floaty, ethereal quality to them. As a woman with a curve or two, I
think it will be one of those looks I may try on and return to the rail,
and decide whilst I love it, it doesn’t love me back. But this does
mean it will be perfect for some of my clients who have a straighter,
more athletic figure, and want to add a few more curves.
Why not dig around in your skirt wardrobe to see what you have
that is interesting? Then all you have to do is create your outfit and
take yourself out for the day. Enter the winter season with hope and
optimism; an interesting skirt is out there for all of us.
Left: Oliver Bonas Star Stitch Sleeve Pink Jumper £49.50,
Sparkle Pleated Skirt £59.50
Right: FatFace Broderie Blouse, £42.50,
Beverley Ditsy Maxi Skirt £45
75

PETER’S BRIDAL WAREHOUSE
Peter Bullman
WEDDING DRESS FACTORY OUTLET
Weddings
Ceremonies & Evening Receptions
Stunning Dresses,
Size 8 to 36 in stock
or you to try on today
Call: 07917757862
www.petersbridalwarehouse.com
Peter Bridal Warehouse
Priced from
£299 to £999
Unit 21 Northfield Business Park, Soham, CB7 5UE
Just off A142 Soham By Pass, (Behind Scampers Pet Store)
In the heart of rural Bedfordshire
Spacious Wedding Suite
Wedding Garden for Outdoor Photographs
Wedding Ceremony Licence
Dedicated Wedding Team
Free Parking for Guests
Treat our space like a blank canvas and make it your own
We don’t have set packages or insist you use particular suppliers
The Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick, MK45 1AH
Tel: 01525 631905 Email: events@therufuscentre.co.uk
www.therufuscentre.co.uk
76

Weddings
#L veIsNotCancelled
Ellie Merridale Wedding Photography
Top Tips For Planning
Your Wedding in 2021
#LoveisnotCancelled is the moto for
couples across the world in 2020. Whilst
lockdowns and restrictions
have impacted weddings enormously, it
does not mean that they have
ceased altogether. In fact, love has
really triumphed this year, with couples
finding new ways to have their
special days. Special being the key
message here.
As 2021 fast approaches (thank
goodness!) here’s how you can still plan
for a perfect day next year. The wedding
planning experts at PlanWithToast.com
share four top tips for approaching your
wedding planning in 2021.
1. Manage your
expectations to avoid
disappointment:
So many couples were blindsided this
year. They had their plans completely
de-railed, causing huge disappointment
and heartbreak. For 2021, you’re
going into your planning with full
knowledge that restrictions are likely
to be in place for some time. Manage
your expectations. Plan for a beautiful
wedding that can go ahead safely under
today’s restrictions and then, if things
change for the better, you can scale up.
Whilst you’re prepared for things to get
better, it’s also good to be ready in case
things get worse. Just in case you’re
forced to reduce numbers even more,
have a ‘Mini Wedding’ backup plan in
mind. Hopefully you won’t have to act
on it, but it will make you feel better if
you’ve already thought of this.
2. Have an open dialogue
with your suppliers:
Suppliers have really suffered too this
year, so they’ll be so excited to book in
plans for 2021. But, there are a few key
questions to ask when making your
booking:
a) What is their current cancellation
policy? Is your deposit refundable or
can it be transferred to a later date?
Is there an additional fee for this?
b) Should things get worse, what is
their refund policy here?
c) Do they have a contingency plan if
they cannot deliver their services to
you on the day?
d) What safety measures do they have
in place to keep themselves and you
safe?
And don’t forget to check your contracts
thoroughly, to make sure the above is
covered and clarified.
3. Make the most of
COVID-19 special offers
So many wonderful suppliers are
offering special deals and discounts
for weddings effected by COVID-19,
right now. They’re also updating their
policies and their T&Cs to offer as much
flexibility as possible. Make the most
of this opportunity by heading over to
PlanWithToast.com to find up-to-date
Supplier COVID-19 statuses and
exclusive offers in your area.
4. It’s all about the micro
weddings:
It may not be the day you originally
dreamed, but that doesn’t mean it has
to be any less dreamy. Re-position your
priorities and build a day around what
really matters to you. Understanding
why you want to get married now, rather
than waiting, will help you focus on
what’s important to include.
Don’t think of it as settling, it’s still your
wedding day! You can still indulge in
beautiful styling and florals, great food,
fabulous fashion, speeches and really
spoil the guests that are there.
A micro wedding will give you the most
intimate, magical setting – what could
be more special? If this year has taught
us anything, it’s what really matters.
Coronavirus cannot and will not stop
you from taking this step with your
partner. Whatever your wedding day
looks like, it will be perfect because it
is the day you get to marry the love of
your life.
Read more tips and advice at
www.planwithtoast.com
77

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magazine on the go
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DIGITAL COPY
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www.eastlife.co.uk

Motoring
Jeep Renegade
4xe
Written by Sue Cooke | Twitter @cookecars
Sales of plug-in hybrids in the UK increased by 221.1% according to the latest
figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, and the latest
manufacturer to step into the world of electrification is Jeep. Starting with the launch
in September of the Renegade 4xe plug-in hybrid.
The new Renegade is powered by a battery that can be recharged while driving
or through an external power outlet or charge point. The battery powers a 60hp
electric motor which is located between the rear axle. In full electric mode there
are zero tailpipe emissions up to a range of 26 miles. On longer jaunts, combined
with the 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine, CO2 emissions are less than 50g/km in hybrid
mode. Less CO2 emissions, less road tax to pay.
In case of extended off-road driving, two electric motors featuring Powerloop ensure
that eAWD traction is always available. Jeep says the Renegade 4xe is not only at
home off road, but its capability and driving pleasure also shines through in the city.
Buyers can customise their Jeep and there are 18 exterior colours to choose from.
My road test Renegade arrived in a jetset Blue, but I really like the Colorado red.
This SUV does look compact from the outside but behind the wheel, I felt as if I was
driving a large, solid and capable machine. The power bulge on the front bonnet
adds to the feeling of invincibility and with the new 4x4 systems. I wouldn’t hesitate
to take the Renegade into the slipperiest conditions.
Facts at a Glance:
Model: Jeep Renegade 4xe plug in hybrid
Limited
Price: 34,500otr
Engine: 1.3 litre turbo; battery and
electric motor
Performance: 232-259 WLTP
Charging Time: 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds
and on to a top speed of 81 mph in full
electric and up to 124mph in hybrid mode
CO2 emissions: less than 50g/km in
hybrid mode
Combined fuel consumption: achieving
between 123 and 134 mpg (with the
battery charged).
The rear lights feature an attractive unique X design theme which was inspired by
the ‘jerry’ cans mounted on the back of the military Willys Jeep – the legend that
inspired the brand.
Behind the wheel, this hybrid plug-in drives just the same as a Renegade powered
by a pure combustion engine. There are three trim levels – Longitude, Limited and
Trailhawk – all featuring four-wheel-drive (eAWD).
For the first time, Jeep is offering the Drowsy Driver Detection system. There are
high-visibility full LED headlights, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure
Warning Plus, Intelligent Speed Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition and front and
rear parking sensors.
The Renegade 4xe features a new six-speed automatic transmission selector and
updated Selec-Terrain rotary control with eAWD modes which enable driving on
snow, mud, sand and rock.
The Jeep Renegade 4xe is a positive step into all electrification. Plug in hybrids
still only account for 1 in 30 sales. Clearly illustrating the scale of the challenge for
manufacturers to reach the Government targets for electric vehicles to comprise
70% of new car sales by 2030.
79

Business Accountants for
Business People
● Accounting and Bookkeeping
● Tax and Tax Planning
● Regulation and Compliance
● Advice and Support
● Fixed Fees
● Straight and Direct Communication
● Local Presence and National Strength
● We Do Not Charge By The Hour
Good Accounting is
Good Business
MIKE BARNES ACA
T: 01 485 521 756
M: 07969 163021
E: mike.barnes@aims.co.uk
www.aims.co.uk

CONSUMER
Martin
Lewis
You can install more than one
improvement (and they can be via
different tradespeople) but the total
voucher you’ll receive is maximum
£5,000.
If you get a primary instalment
you can get up to same amount for
SECONDARY improvements.
New £5,000
grants to improve
your homes
energy efficiency
The government’s new Green
Homes Grant scheme is one
every English homeowner
should check out. It may provide
serious free cash for insulation,
double glazing, and a host of
other things that will improve
the energy efficiency of your
home and your home’s value.
That’s the good news, the bad, is
the scheme has some systemic
design flaws that many will find
deeply frustrating. Let me take
you through it.
Launched just before the start of the
month, the Green Homes Grant is…
• Available to all English homeowners
(including park homes) and
residential landlords apart from
unoccupied new builds.
• It gives grants (ie non repayable)
of up to £5,000 per household to
cover two thirds of the cost of labour,
materials, and VAT of installing
certain energy efficient measures.
So, if the installation costs £7,500,
you’ll get a £5,000 voucher from
the Government and you pay the
remaining £2,500.
• Those on certain benefits (e.g.
housing benefit, universal credit and
pension ‘guaranteed’ credit) can
claim up to £10,000, which covers
the entire cost, you pay nothing.
• You only have until 31 March 2021,
to get the installation completed, that
may not be easy for everyone.
That’s the qualifications, but this scheme
isn’t simply a case of you get what you
want. There are two categories of home
improvements which interrelate.
You must install a
PRIMARY improvement.
You can only access the scheme if
you need what the Government calls a
‘primary’ improvement. These must be
new or a top up. It can’t replace what
you have already. These are:
• Insulation: including solid wall, cavity
wall, underfloor, loft or roof. Insulation
for a park home is also included.
• Low-carbon heating: including airsource,
ground-source and hybrid
heat pumps, solar thermal systems
and biomass boilers, which provide
renewable ways of heating your
home.
Once you’ve installed the primary
improvement, you’ll then be able to get
a voucher up to the same amount for a
secondary improvement (ie get £1,000
primary voucher, you can get an up
to £1,000 secondary voucher). These
include…
• Windows & doors… draught
proofing, double/triple/secondary
glazing (only if replacing single),
energy efficient replacement doors.
• Heating controls & insulation… hot
water tank thermostat & insulation,
smart heating controls, thermostatic
radiator valves etc.
How to apply for the
vouchers
It’s an online system. I asked the
Department for BEIS how those who
don’t have access to the internet can
use it, it said to get them to ask friends or
family to help (but not installers).
1) First use the
www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk
eligibility checker, to see what may be
available to you. It’ll show registered
local tradespeople (who must
be Trustmark or Microgeneration
Certification Scheme registered).
2) Then get quotes from tradespeople
– the Government recommends at
least three. Try avoid any firms that
ask you to pay for quotes. And do
check prices compared to doing
it outside the scheme. Plus, worth
noting installers can’t ask for a deposit
larger than your contribution.
3) Only then can you apply via www.
gov.uk/apply-green-homes-grant.
If successful you’ll then be emailed
a voucher. And ensure you only start
the work once you’ve received the
voucher, as the Govt says you can’t
claim for any work that’s started
before the voucher is issued.
Martin Lewis is the
Founder and Chair of
MoneySavingExpert.
com. To join the 13
million people who
get his free Money
Tips weekly email,
go to
www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip
81

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82

Business
101
Adapt to a new world
What’s to become of our charities?
Many of East Anglia’s charities have been hit hard. Some have been forced to close
their retail outlets, most have had to cancel fundraising events, and all have struggled
to deliver services due to lockdown regulations. However, despite the challenges, there
have been local charities using their ingenuity and resourcefulness to find ways to raise
money and to reach out to their communities. Whether that’s by adapting to provide
services online or reaching out to new groups of donors, we can all take a leaf from
their books.
What are you doing online?
Whatever the service, most charities can find ways to provide help virtually. Survivors
in Transition, for example, is providing virtual therapy services for beneficiaries, whilst
St John’s Ambulance made all training available online for both staff and volunteers.
Closer to home, Falcon Meadow Community Trust, a Norfolk/Suffolk environmental
charity, moved its entertaining sponsored plastic duck race online, using videos and
live streaming to raise funds.
Written by Michelle Wright,
CEO of Cause4
www.cause4.co.uk
It’s tricky without the digital-know-how. According to the Charity Digital Skills Report,
27% of charities cancelled their services this year because of a lack of ICT skills. It’s a
pity in the short-term and also doesn’t bode well for the future. But there are support
programmes available for charity staff to improve their digital skills. It’s time to learn what
you need to take things digital.
Adapt and keep going
I’ve been inspired by the charities that have adapted during Covid-19. As the ongoing
threat of repeated lockdowns keeps us a long way from returning to how things used
to be, it’s vital that charities address the need to change. In East Anglia, Blue Cross
Suffolk, an animal rehoming charity near Ipswich, set up virtual adopting and rehoming
services. Through videos, they’ve showcased their own expertise and provided
useful insight, all the time encouraging potential adoptors to meet and spend time
with the animals.
Help is available
If your charity or the charity you support is a heritage organisation, which includes
local museums, parks, landscapes, heritage buildings, even places of worship, there
is a new programme that might be able to help. From November 2020, 150 small or
medium-sized English Heritage organisations will be given free training and mentoring
to help them develop effective business plans, devise income strategies and get the
knowledge they need to respond to the big changes that continue to affect visitors and
donors. It’s a two-year programme of training and mentoring. Interested charities should
get in touch with Cause4 to find out more.
83

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Tel: 01842 766663 www.cosycomfy.co.uk

INTERIORS
Interior trends for 2021; rattan, botanicals, retro…whatever
comes our way, one thing that never goes out of style is a good
night’s sleep.
With the recent clock change and winter fast approaching, having the
right duvet and winter bed set up at home becomes as important as
having a good winter coat. And let’s face it, we will be spending a lot
more time in our own homes in the coming colder months.
While we don’t need more sleep during winter than summer, despite
our urge to hibernate, creating a warm, inviting winter bed may just
help you get the sleep you need to feel fabulous and to function at
your best.
Sweet
Dreams
How to create a five-star
luxury bedroom
There’s nothing quite like sleeping in a plush hotel bed, but how can
you create the look and feel at home? Tielle Love Luxury is the linen
brand behind some of the UK’s most luxurious hotels, the Dorchester
and the Savoy to be exact. Co-founder Robert Lancaster-Gaye explains
why taking some tips from five-star hotels can result in the very best
night’s sleep at home: “There is nothing more comforting than slipping
into bed in with freshly laundered bedlinen. Add to that the quality
of the bedlinen in a luxury hotel and our fondest memories of a night
away almost always focus on the bedroom and the quality of the sleep
especially as the days get colder.”
By following these simple steps, you can create the ultimate winter bed:
STEP 1: MATTRESS PROTECTOR
Show your bed some love by layering first with a mattress protector.
This will help protect the mattress from wear, stains and keep it mite-free.
Look for a comfy quilted protector made from 100% breathable cotton
to help maintain the perfect sleeping temperature and make sure it fits
snugly. You don’t want your mattress protector pinging off in the middle
of the night.
STEP 2: MATTRESS TOPPER
Mattress toppers are the unsung hero of the winter bed. Hidden from
the eye, the right topper creates a sumptuously warm and cosy sleep
experience, although arguably they may make it harder to get out of
bed! Look for a generously filled natural topper in a soft, breathable
cotton-case that’s tightly woven. This will prevent annoying down or
spiky feathers poking through.
STEP 3: DREAMY DUVET
A cosy duvet to crawl into on a dark winter’s night is a must. One
of those bedroom essentials you wonder how people ever lived
without. As most homes now have central heating, gone are the days
of needing a winter-specific duvet – just a good quality all-seasons
10.5 tog duvet. This will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter,
preventing night-time sweats.
Feather and down are best for warmth, comfort and breathability; the
duvet’s softness or weightiness depends on the finish and fill. Natural
down is soft and lightweight, whereas feathers provide bulk and
weight. Some luxury microfibre duvets also have a lovely natural
duvet look and feel and are a great option for guest rooms and
children’s bedrooms.
STEP 4: STYLISH THROW
No article on layering would be complete without a throw or blanket,
the mainstay of any cosy autumn and winter bedroom scheme.
Providing an extra layer of bed warmth, a stylish throw or blanket also
help adds interest and depth to interiors and can look great slung over
a cosy bedroom chair.
85

Venetian Blinds Vertical Blinds Wooden Blinds Solar Shadings
Roller Garage Doors Up & Over Garage Doors Sectional Garage Doors Side Sliding Doors Entrance Doors
Industrial Doors
Cooks Industrial Doors
Sweetbriar Industrial Estate,
Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 2BS.
T: 01603 410304 F: 01603 405090
E: sales@cooksdoors.co.uk
Est. 1965
Blinds & Doors
Roller Shutter Doors & Grilles, Fire Shutters,
Sectional Overhead Doors, Steel Door Sets,
Sliding Folding Doors & Fast Action Doors.
We have been established for over 50 years and are renowned in
Norfolk, Suffolk and across East Anglia for providing excellence
of service and an extensive range of high quality products.
Showroom Open: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm & Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm
Roller Blinds Fire Shutters Steel Doors Industrial Shutter Doors Awnings Security Grilles Crash Doors
URN29_Norfolk_1.2020_EarshamHomeFurnishings_HP.ai 1 26/02/2020 12:23:20
Dock Shelters Acoustic Doors Curtains Partitions Galebreakers
Our extensive showrooms house a large range of pine, oak & hand painted
furniture in East Anglia, traditional fireplaces, surrounds and accessories,
solid brass lighting, mirrors, prints, giftware and decorative accessories.
9.00am – 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm – 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm
Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk - Web: www.earshamhallfurnishings.co.uk
EARSHAM HALL, BUNGAY, SUFFOLK, NR35 2AN
FURNITURE LIGHTING FIREPLACES GIFTS TEAROOM KITCHENS EVENTS
@EarshamHome earshamhomefurnishings @earshamhomefurnishings

Five tips for creating
the perfect home office
Written by Liz Mattock | www.wolfauthor.com
Working from home but want to keep it professional? We have
five fantastic ways to help you design the perfect home office to
get your brain ticking and your creative juices flowing as soon as
you step inside.
1. Space
Create a space that works for you. You will need a clear desk
space to hold your laptop or computer and mobile phone. Set
up your home office in a room with a window. The light and
breeze will help you concentrate better and avoid eye strain.
2. Get Organised
Buy yourself a set of trays and label them so you can keep your
urgent, less urgent and completed jobs separate. Equip
yourself with a good set of stationery and notepads; the art of
scribbling down notes with a pen and paper never gets old.
Treat yourself to a diary with plenty of space for important
meetings and deadlines and have a separate pad for a to-do list
so nothing gets missed. A to-do list also sets you up for the day
and week ahead.
3. Décor
Use light, pastel colours like greens, creams and blues, which
are soothing to the eye and promote a sense of calm. Display
motivational quotes and pictures on your walls for when you
gaze around the room looking for inspiration.
4. Wellbeing
We all get tempted by the biscuit tin, just one more coffee
and skipping lunch breaks. Have a two-litre bottle of water
next to your desk, a fully stocked fruit bowl and set an alarm
mid-morning, at lunchtime and mid-afternoon to remind you to
take a short break and stretch your legs. You will be much more
productive and avoid burn-out if you take regular breaks. Get
out in the fresh air if you can to give you that extra boost.
5. Privacy
With many of us going online to MS Teams or Zoom to conduct
our meetings, it is important you have the privacy to do this. If
you have children, pets or partners milling about, you don’t want
to be disturbed mid-way through an in-depth conversation with
a group of clients.
Follow these five tips and you are sure to head for home
office success.
87

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88

How to
Update
your
Kitchen
on a
Budget
It’s uncertain times, and most of us
are feeling the pinch of COVID on
our finances. The worry that we don’t
know what’s around the corner may
make you feel as though you can’t
make big investments such as home
improvements right now. However, if
your kitchen is looking a little tired, a few
simple touches can have a huge impact.
Read our top tips for the many ways to
update your kitchen – they’re easy on the
wallet too!
Painting the doors and drawers
It’s incredible what a tin of paint can do. Give your cupboards and panels an instant
update by refreshing the colour with paint. Chalk paint is a good option as there’s little
prep work. Just remember to wax after the paint has dried to keep them looking their best.
Update doors
A little more expensive than painting, but so worth it. Completely transform your kitchen
by replacing the doors and side panels of your kitchen carcass. You could change colour,
style or both for a reasonable price.
Splashbacks
It may not be something you’d think of changing, but when you look at a cooker your
eyes are usually drawn to the splashback. Give it an update by replacing glass with tiles or
visa versa. For a very budget friendly option, makeover outdated or worn tiles with stencils
or waterproof tile stickers.
Replace hardware
There are hundreds of door and drawer handles to choose from, all of different shapes
and shades. Updating your kitchen’s hardware is a cost-effective and subtle way of
adding instant style.
Worktops
A slightly most costly option but changing a worktop will make a huge difference to the
look and feel of a kitchen. Shop around as prices vary. Quartz is at a higher price point,
but there are some good quality laminates now available for those with smaller budgets.
It can be tricky to get a worktop fitted, as most kitchen retailers will prefer to only fit whole
kitchens, so you may need to find a good carpenter.
89

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INTERIORS
Bath and Beyond
How to turn your bathroom into a tranquil sanctuary
It’s been a tough year, and we all need a little escape now and
then. With COVID restricting the places we can escape to for
some peace and quiet, why not create your own little sanctuary
in your bathroom? It’s easy to do. With a few simple touches you
could have your very own spa-like space.
Scents
Spas have you instantly relaxing with the scents spritzed
throughout. Apply the same method to your bathroom. Diffusers
are great for creating a lasting aroma. If you’re looking for
something extra luxurious purchase an air humidifier essential
oil diffuser lamp (definitely worth popping on your Christmas
list). Of course, candles are the obvious choice for scents and
relaxation. Run a bubble bath, light some candles and relax.
Sandalwood and lavender are both good choices.
Plants
Greenery in the home has been a big trend for the last few years.
It’s practically taken over every room of the house, and the
bathroom is no exception. From banana plants to palms, create
an exotic atmosphere for your peaceful space.
Towels
Throw away old towels and replace with fluffy white goodness.
Opt for pure luxury with high end brands or keep it simple and
buy from high street stores, either way, a brand, new towel gives
the same feeling as fresh new sheets! Pop on the radiator while
you soak in the tub, then wrap yourself in the warmth and fall
into bed, bliss! Fold and stack neatly to keep the spa look going.
Robe
Add an instant hotel vibe and invest in a new waffle bathrobe.
Choose premium quality for extra luxury.
91

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92

INTERIORS
A Green
Christmas
Written by Eilidh Gallagher
Do you feel the pressure to make each Christmas bigger
and better than the one before? More presents, more
decorations, more parties, just more. Thanks to social media
we see so many images of the picture-perfect Christmas that
we feel the pressure to recreate. Christmas has become such
an excessive season with a huge amount of waste created.
But if everyone made a few swaps or thought more about
their gifts, we could reduce the huge amount of waste that
is created.
Give one or more of these ideas a go this year to help make
your Christmas become more sustainable…
1. Have a think about what presents you can make this year
with foraged ingredients or ones you already have in your
kitchen. Think little bottles of sloe gin and home baked
Christmas spiced cookies in a jar, tied with a ribbon.
2. Look into sourcing pre-loved and vintage gifts rather than
buying new. There are so many places you can look, from
your local charity shops to online. Whether it is clothing,
electricals, books, toys or hobby related items you will
save yourself money too.
3. Keep the decorations you already have and instead
of buying new, bring the outdoors in with freshly cut
greenery like holly and mistletoe hung from your
mantlepiece or doorways and fresh sprigs of rosemary
for your Christmas table.
4. Do you really need a new Christmas jumper this year that
you may only wear once before being discarded? Start
looking now for pre-loved Christmas jumpers, customize
your own or swap with family and friends.
5. When it comes to your Christmas tree if you already have
an artificial one, the best thing you can do is to keep
using it. If you get a real tree, make sure that it is FSC
certified and try to support your local Christmas
tree farms.
There are so many ways to have a greener Christmas without
compromising on the fun. For more ideas check out my
book, ‘Green Christmas’.
Eilidh is a blogger and
freelance writer who is
happiest outdoors. A mum of
three, she now writes about
their journey as a family to
a simpler more eco-friendly
way of living.
www.justeilidh.com
93

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Gardens
by Ade
Without a doubt, we will look back on 2020 as a year like no
other. Despite all the challenges and restrictions, one positive
has come from this unsettling time. The number of people
who picked up the spade and took to gardening as a
‘lockdown’ escape.
So, how do we keep this momentum going when gardens
are now looking worse for wear, days are shorter and Jack
Frost is knocking at our door? Firstly, this is winter and it’s all
part of Mother Nature’s cycle. Just because things may not be
flourishing above ground, underground is telling a very different
story. Roots are re-generating; soil is realising its valuable
nutrients and everything is gearing towards a new growing
season. So, don’t look at your gardening spaces with a frown,
embrace the season. There are still jobs that can be done, and
preparation is key at this time of year.
With the garden looking bare, you can now see the ‘bones’ of
your growing spaces. If you’re looking to add structures, trees,
or create new areas to grow plants or veg, this visual blueprint
is a great guide. It’ll also reveal if anything needs repairing or
replacing, such as rotten fence panels. With a dormant garden,
it’s easier to move around on beds without fear of treading on
your prize blooms.
If your shed and garden tools are looking a little worse for wear,
take this time to clean, repair and tidy. Service all power tools,
including the lawn mower. Thoroughly clean all empty pots and
trays in hot water and diluted washing up liquid. Carrying out
these tasks now will ensure your tools last for years to come.
Whilst the tools are out, why not give it a go to build a
birdhouse? For the price of a few bits of wood and several nails,
your garden could be a haven for birdlife come the following
spring. To build your own birdbox, check out my short video
(www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbweicrcICo ). Remember,
to keep those birdfeeders topped up, and ensure their water
supply never freezes.
Mulching your growing areas now could give your plants a
valuable kickstart in spring. Not only are you providing nutrients
and matter for your soil, this top layer will insulate your precious
plants. Just ensure you mulch around the plant area and not
over them, otherwise they could rot.
But if the cold weather starts to get the better of you, retreat to
the cosiness of a roaring fire and a cup of warming soup. All
ingredients care of your vegetable and herb bed of course. This
is an ideal moment to takeout laptops, pencils, paper and seed
catalogues. Read about new plants, draw plans and write wish
lists for next year. What do you want to grow? What do you want
to eat? And what haven’t you tried before?
We’re all very different and our creativeness is unique to each
and everyone of us. So, don’t be inhibited or feel overwhelmed
by what you want to achieve in your garden. If you’re looking for
free advice, garden bloggers are a great community of people
to get to know. From all walks of life, on different gardening
journeys, they’re only too happy to help. Why not take this
opportunity to create your own gardening blog or Instagram
account, using it as a journal for your own gardening adventure.
In the depths of winter, looking back over your summer garden
photos, can be just the inspiration to create your dream garden
next year.
Whatever you hope to achieve in your gardens in 2021, may
it be a creative, prosperous and happy year for both you and
those you hold dear.
Ade is a freelance presenter,
blogger, vlogger, writer and multimedia
producer. Whilst a garden presenter
on the QVC Channel, he’s also
a live speaker, who can host stage
garden events. adesellars.com
Both Ade and his wife Sophie run the
blog, ‘Agents of Field’, which won
the GMG Awards ‘Blog of the Year
2016’. agentsoffield.com
95

PROPERTY
The Future
of the Property Market
Everything you need to know
In what has been an uncertain year to say the least, the initial
impact of COVID-19 on the housing market was one of huge
concern and ambiguity. But seven months on from lockdown,
both property prices have increased by an average of 2.5 per
cent, or £6,000 in comparison according to thisismoney.co.uk,
and the number of active buyers are 66 per cent higher than a
year ago.
October saw Boris Johnson announce the Government’s
intention to ‘fix the broken housing market’ and turn ‘generation
rent into generation buy’, which could help up to two million
first-time buyers get onto the property ladder.
Out of all the regions, East Anglia has seen a steady growth
in house prices due to inflation. But with property forecasters
still hesitant to make any solid predictions for 2021, CALA
Homes’ Glenn Copper, sales and marketing director for its North
Home Counties region, talks through the best advice, tips and
predictions that can be offered for buyers in this area.
Glenn comments: “COVID-19 has had a very positive impact on
the housing market, but there is still uncertainty ahead. With the
furlough scheme ending, and now on the run up to Christmas,
we’d advise now is one of the best times to move in order to
make the most of the all-time house price costs, and
house-buying schemes available.”
Banks however have made it increasingly more challenging to
obtain loan-to-value mortgages of 90%, or even 85%, buyers
would need to save up for a deposit of around 15%.
Glenn continues: “What the Prime Minister is working towards
announcing sounds promising, with the potential for first-time
buyers to be offered long-term fixed rate mortgages with a 5%
deposit option. But it’s not all encouraging news, as this would
see banks lending more, and therefore taking greater risks. This
is a gap in the scheme that needs addressing more definitively.”
The stamp duty holiday has only incentivised more people to
move, with house prices increasing on average by £5,500.
But with this finishing at the end of March and a possible job
crisis looming, now might be a better time than ever to
consider moving.
Glenn concludes: “Additionally, the Help to Buy scheme is also
changing, with buyers in the East of England soon only able to
borrow up to £407,000, as stated by www.landc.co.uk. If both
homeowners and first-time buyers want to take advantage of
the original £600,000 price bracket, they only have until 15
December to do so on homes that are due for build completion
by the end of March 2021.”
97

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The Arts Column
Written by Collette Hoefkens; Proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and artist
www.nortonwaygallery.com
Woman on a chaise
Frome Meander
In this year of uncertainty, we need to find a lasting light with
which to fill our hearts. A positive addition to any home is a
piece of art. Large or small, the product of true and honest
creativity can be uplifting and inspiring.
From exciting autumn, winter and Christmas collections, I have
chosen three skilful and committed artists that I feel celebrate
or enrich the colder seasons. Represented by long established
and dedicated galleries, you can enjoy their works both online
and on the walls of carefully and safely curated exhibitions.
Do check their websites or contact the galleries for up-to-date
information.
Firstly, the luxurious oil paintings of Chris Bennet ROI.
Reminiscent of a modern Singer Sargent, his flowing
brushstrokes and compositions create tantalizing works of
light, shade and narrative. Whether exploring the bright surface
of a sunlit building or the outward gaze of a beautiful woman,
serenity and intrigue capture the viewer.
Chris’ work can be seen as part of the Lime Tree Gallery’s
Autumn Exhibition. As an important member of their catalogue
of artists, his work can be viewed on most visits but is much sort
after and does not hang around for long.
For a harmonious accompaniment to the darker months look no
further than the work of Swindon based artist, Anna Boss. Her
quiet and intimate landscapes are full of stillness and calm. With
layer upon layer of resin and acrylic she conjures hauntingly
beautiful vistas of passage and optimism. Hedgerows, trees
and reeds, flank meandering rivers and streams, continually
promising new days and horizons.
Anna’s dreamlike landscapes can be seen as part of the Norton
Way Gallery’s Autumn and Winter Collection. The gallery has
regular opening hours and a comprehensive website but also
offers relaxed, private viewing appointments.
Finally to Rob Barnes, who never fails to lift the spirits. His highly
considered linocuts are rhythmic and almost playful. Scenes
of working and pastoral England are steeped in joy. Ploughed
fields and snow wrapped valleys are paid full homage in his
expertly chiselled original prints.
The Southwold Gallery will be displaying many of Rob’s latest
pieces as part of their Christmas Show. This tardist of a gallery
is home to so many superb artists; there really is something for
everyone!
Lime Tree Gallery
Long Melford, Suffolk
www.limetreegallery.com
Norton Way Gallery
Letchworth, Hertfordshire
www.nortonwaygallery.com
The Southwold Gallery
High Street, Southwold, Suffolk
www.southwoldgallery.co.uk

The Eagle Gallery
The Eagle Gallery is a unique artistled
gallery in Bedford. It is managed
and run by a co-operative of 40
local artists and receives no grant
aid or commercial funding.
All members bring to the gallery very different
backgrounds and a variety of experiences. Their
exhibitions reflect this diversity and present exciting
and eclectic work that ranges from the traditionally
figurative to the highly conceptual and includes
ceramics, sculpture, textiles, photography as well as
paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolour. They change
their exhibitions at least monthly to ensure a varied
programme throughout the year and hold a number
of one-week exhibitions to showcase the work of
individual members or small groups. This enables them
to give all their members year-round exposure that
would be impossible in a commercial gallery.
The Eagle Gallery
20 St Peter’s Street
Bedford
MK40 2NN
eagle gallery
25 th NOV - 24 th DEC
paintings photography ceramics
textiles jewellery mixed-media
prints glass sculpture
20 St Peter’s Street
Bedford MK40 2NN
wheelchair access available
For information on exhibitions and opening times
ring us on 01234 346995
visit our website www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk
follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/TheEagleGallery
100

On the
Canvas
Discover the latest art
exhibitions in the region
Bill Brandt | Henry Moore,
from 20 November – 28 February 2021
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich Research Park, University of East Anglia
Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7TJ
This major exhibition traces the parallel and intersecting careers of two leading artists
of the 20th century, starting with their iconic work from the Second World War and
moving through to their healing post-war portrayals of nature and landscape. It features
nearly 200 varying works including photography, sculpture and drawings, showcasing
the interdisciplinary talent of both artists.
The exhibition opens with the moment the artists met in 1942 when Brandt
photographed Moore in his studio to accompany a 10-page spread in Lilliput
magazine, which juxtaposed the two artists’ shelter images for the first time.
www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk
Norfolk abstract artist creates works for latest Eno
albums
Norwich School of Art, Slade & NUA alumnus, artist Dom Theobald, who lives and
works amongst the grand but crumbling surroundings of Ditchingham House – the
Norfolk home of Rider Haggard, has collaborated heavily with Brian and Roger Eno
and created stunning abstract artwork for their last two releases. Dom has produced
beautiful, abstract covers for the albums, available on 12-inch gatefold vinyl and CD.
www.domtheobald.com
Christmas Exhibition at Thomson’s Gallery, Aldeburgh
from early December until end January 2021
Thompson’s Gallery in Aldeburgh, will proceed with its annual Christmas Exhibition,
opening 5 December. The exhibition will show paintings and sculptures by over 25
different artists, both old and new, connected to the gallery from both the 20th and 21st
century.
Among the highlights from the exhibition is a lithograph by Henry Moore ‘Reclining
Woman’, plus several John Piper originals as well as work by Peggy Somerville and
Hugh Boycott-Brown. The gallery will be open in line with Government guidelines, but
is available online at all times. www.thompsonsgallery.com
The Art Cave
Firstsite will be hosting a weekly online art class, ‘The Art Cave’; a spin off to ‘Art is where
the home is’ which launched in March during lockdown.
This new, fun, free ‘how-to’ online show will be released at 10am each Saturday
morning until Christmas. Colchester artists Iris Gunnarsdottir and Tom Armstrong will
show children and young people how to create fun art and crafts at home.
© Bill Brandt Bil…t Archive Ltd © John Piper
© Tom Armstrong
Each episode of ‘The Art Cave’ will include a mixture of building, drawing and play –
from making sock puppets to drawing cartoons – and encourage making and creativity
in the home.
For more information visit www.firstsite.uk
101

Beds
© Jamie Proud
A Winter Break
in Ampthill
Written by Jacqui Hagen
With its beautiful scenery, fascinating
history and bustling town centre,
Ampthill ticks all the boxes for a
wonderful winter break.
Ampthill Great Park
Pack your walking boots and enjoy the spectacular
views from the brow of the Greensand Ridge with lots
of opportunities for wildlife spotting. There’s plenty to
interest history lovers too: the park was one of Henry VIII’s
favourite hunting grounds and it was here that his first
wife, Katherine of Aragon, was incarcerated during her
divorce. The beautiful parkland landscape, enjoyed by so
many today, was created by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown
in the 18th century.
Houghton House
Head to the outskirts of the town and you’ll find another
slice of history at Houghton House. Although now
a ruined shell, enough remains of the 17th-century
mansion to envisage how it must have looked in its
heyday. Built in a mixture of Jacobean and Classical
styles with magnificent views across the Bedfordshire
countryside, it’s said to be the inspiration for the ‘House
Beautiful’ in John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress.
Shopping
Ampthill’s busy town centre with narrow streets, Georgian
buildings, thatched cottages and attractive market place
is a delight to explore. If you’re looking for Christmas gifts,
you’ll find plenty to browse in the independent shops
while the Thursday markets are a particular draw for
visitors with delicious treats, homeware, books, cards and
crafts in abundance.
102

®
Beds
Food and Drink
In Ampthill, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places
to eat and drink with everything from authentic Italian dishes
at Donatello’s to afternoon tea at Cakestand and Crumb.
If you’re looking for a buzz, head to The Hide Café Bar, a
popular destination for breakfast right through to cocktails.
Or, for a really special treat, try the tasting menu at Eileen’s
by Steve Barringer, local boy and former Masterchef: The
Professionals finalist.
Where to stay
Once an 18th century coaching inn, The White Hart with its
boutique style bedrooms, busy bar and central location is the
ideal place to stay in Ampthill. A little further out in the pretty
village of Maulden you’ll find The George Inn, a recently
restored 16th century pub offering a cosy bolthole for a
relaxing weekend break.
Ampthill Micro Museum
If you want to discover more about Ampthill’s fascinating
past, you’ll find 1,000 years of history from Norman times to
the modern day at Ampthill Micro Museum. Tucked away in a
beautiful 18th century building above Ampthill Fireplaces on
Bedford Street, the museum is open Monday to Friday 10am-
5pm and Saturday 10am-4pm.
Explore further
Take a 15-minute drive south and you’ll find the attractive
village of Barton-le-Clay which nestles at the foot of the
beautiful Barton Hills. Barton Springs, a pretty chalk stream
river, is popular for walkers and a great place for children to
splash around so be sure to take their wellies! Barton-le-Clay
is also home to the The Olde Watermill Shopping Village
with over 20 shops set around an historic watermill. There’s a
restaurant, tea room, antique centre and children’s soft play
area so you can really make a day of it.
DONATELLO’S
PIZZA & PASTA
BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS
Traditional homemade Italian food served
in a friendly & relaxed atmosphere.
www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk
AMPTHILL DUNSTABLE
(01525) 404666 (01582) 475797
Like it – Like it a lot!
103

Beds
5
reasons to
Visit Olney
this winter
Written by Jacqui Hagen
The shopping experience
Shopping in Olney is lovely. It’s like stepping back in
time and far removed from a busy retail park or shopping
centre. A variety of shops line the High Street, one of
widest in the country, and surround the Market Place with
more in hidden courtyards waiting to be explored.
The majority of Olney’s shops are independents,
attracting shoppers from further afield to find the
galleries, antiques, rug and furniture sellers as well as
jewellery, interior design and clothing boutiques. Free
parking throughout the town makes a day trip easy. This
pretty market town is particularly inviting at Christmas
time when the streets are adorned with sparkling lights
and festive trees with late night shopping throughout
December.
Vibrant markets
Olney has a weekly market with an array of stalls every
Thursday as well as a Farmers’ Market offering locally
sourced produce on the first Sunday of the month. With
a Farmers’ Market on Sunday 6th December and the
weekly markets running right up to Christmas Eve, you
can get all your fresh festive produce for the big day.
Delicious pitstops
There’s a fantastic choice of restaurants, pubs and cafés
offering breakfast, lunch and dinner as well tempting
treats to keep you refreshed throughout your visit. While
you explore the town, you’ll inevitably find somewhere to
rest your feet and try something a little different including
a speciality delicatessen, vintage tea shop, pancake
parlour and traditional sweet shop. As the day draws to
a close, the many pubs and restaurants keep the town
bustling into the evening.
A charming setting
Olney’s historic buildings take you on a journey through
the centuries as you wander through the town. From
17th century coaching inns and 18th century Georgian
grandeur to Victorian town houses, the architecture is
fascinating. You can explore Olney’s rich heritage by
visiting the Cowper & Newton Museum on the Market
Place.
Olney is a great destination
with plenty to offer for a day
trip or a weekend away with
accommodation in the heart of
the town or the tranquility of the
surrounding countryside.
104

Beds
Head out of the town into the surrounding countryside and
you’ll find the Great Ouse which offers a delightful riverside
walk and nearby Emberton Park with lakeside walks and
children’s play areas, fishing, boating and camping.
New in town
Located on the Market Place is a tiny new children’s
bookshop called The Snug, run by Rose who is passionate
about literacy. Rose also visits local villages and schools in
Grace the Bookbus – a refurbished cherry red mini bus giving
children a space to relax, read and learn.
Also new to the Market Place this year is The Wine Cellar,
a family-run, independent retailer offering hand picked
stock and unpretentious advice. Pop in or visit
www.thewinecellar.wine to book an enlightening wine
tasting event with a sharing cheese and charcuterie board.
Capadocia Turkish Meze and Grill opened in The Galleries
this year offering authentic Turkish cuisine using the finest
locally grown ingredients. Try their traditional dishes cooked
over a charcoal grill and finish with the sticky, sweet baklava.
On the Market Place, in the historical town of Olney, Leo
Antiques has been providing quality antiques since
2003. This year is a particularly challenging one with the
pandemic, nevertheless, here at Leo’s we are following
government guidelines, and all visitors are provided
with gloves so that they may handle goods. HANDS
Social Distancing is followed by only allowing 10
people into the shop at any one time. SPACE
We look forward to welcoming you, and wearing a smile
under our masks! FACE
Open Tuesday – Sunday 11am to 4m
Tel 01234 240003
105

3 ROOMS | 1 BAR | THEMED COCKTAILS
AN EXPERIENCE FOR YOU AND YOUR TEAM
THE SAW ROOM THE LABORATORY THE MURDER SCENE
You’ve woken up dazed and
confused, with no memory of how
you’ve got here.
After discovering you’re chained
up and trapped you hear the voice
of the Psychopath...
He wants to play a game, and you
are his entertainment…
You have been on a tour of one
of the most mysterious research
centres in the country, you spot
the “restricted area” zone and take
a look…
Instantly regretting your decision,
you are trapped in the Lab and only
have 60 minutes to get out before
you become a test subject yourself…
A serial killer is on the loose in
Bedford, you are a crime scene
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Beds
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
11-Dec A Christmas Carol
Dickens’ fable is brought to life as Olivier Award winner Guy
Masterson recreates Scrooge, Marley, the Fezziwigs, Tiny Tim et
al in an enchanting performance that will dazzle.
Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN
01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
14-31 Dec It’s a Wonderful Life
The Christmas classic as you have never seen it before: with live
music, puppetry and a sack load of Christmas magic. Prepare
to have your heart strings tugged, your sides split and your
disbelief suspended.
The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE
01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk
17-Dec Castle Comedy Christmas Special
The headline act is a Mystery Guest Star!
Opening the show is Patrick Monahan who blends a
high-energy comedy with topical material. Aaron Twitchen
completes the bill. Camp, catty and fabulous!
Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN
01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
27-31 Dec A Christmas Carol
With live music, packed full of family fun and side splitting
comedy, Lamphouse’s one man version of A Christmas Carol
will bring you some much needed Christmas cheer!
The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road,Bedford, MK40 3DE
01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk
16-Feb Safari Adventure
From giraffes that laugh to monkeys going bananas – a roaring
musical adventure, packed with action songs, live music and
audience participation. Come dressed as your favourite animal!
Leighton Buzzard Theatre, Lake Street, LU7 1RX
0300 300 8125 www.leightonbuzzardlibrarytheatre.co.uk
MUSIC
22-Jan Elton John Tribute
One for Tiny Dancers Joel Coombes has been performing as
Elton for over a decade – with all of the outfits, the piano skills
and the uncanny vocals to boot.
Forest of Marston Vale, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PS
01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org
13-Feb From The Jam
Featuring original Jam member Bruce Foxton. Performing
songs from The Jam’s album ‘Setting Sons’ along with handpicked
songs from their back catalogue
Corn Exchange, St Paul’s, Square Bedford, MK40 1SL
01234 718044 www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
5 Sep-11 Apr Vauxhall- Made in Luton
Showcasing the iconic vehicles produced by Vauxhall over the
last 100 years. Follow the story of the major car company and
learn some of the impact made on the town.
Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton, LU1 4LX
01582 878100 www.culturetrust.com
3 Oct-11 Apr Under the Same Sky Exhibition
Discover the local impact of weather alongside artists’
depictions of the sky above. Includes the work of JMW Turner,
Samuel Palmer, Alfred Sisley, Eric Ravilious, Paul Nash and
Edouard Manet.
The Higgins Gallery, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD
01234 718618 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk
25Nov-24Dec Christmas Cornucopia
Members showcase their work in a new arrangement.
The Eagle Gallery, 20 St Peter’s Street, MK40 2NN
01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
5, 12, 19-Dec Christmas Dinner with Festive Music
Live performance by Becky Bennet followed by a Christmas
feast celebrating local and seasonal ingredients. A giant tree
from the estate will be decked with candles and the mantles
adorned with holly.
Shuttleworth Estate, Old Warden, Nr Biggleswade, SG18 9EP
01767 627927 www.shuttleworth.org
06-Dec Made in Bedford’s Christmas Artisan Market
Showcasing the work of local artists, craftspeople and
producers. An ideal opportunity to buy unique cards, gifts and
decorations. Number 13 café open for refreshments with cakes
and vegan food from Scrumdiddly Kitchen.
St Paul’s Square Bedford, MK40 1SL
26 Dec-3 Jan Christmas Adventure Quest
Discover fun facts and untold stories in the places where history
happened! Hunt for clues and QR codes which reveal quirky
tales or treat yourself to a hot chocolate or mulled wine in
beautiful surroundings.
Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR
0370 333 1181 www.english-heritage.org.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
06-Dec Flitwick Antique Fair
Homemade refreshments, excellent disabled facilities and a
wide range of interesting items for sale.
Flitwick Village Hall, Dunstable Road, Flitwick, MK45 1HP
07730 562329 www.antiques-atlas.com
17-Jan Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair
Over 45 stalls including silver and enamel, quality and costume
jewellery, decorative antiques, mid-century homeware. Ample
parking and a visit must include a stop at the on-site café to refuel.
The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, SG18 8JH
07906 647346 www.madisonevents.co.uk

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Herts
The famous St Albans Charter Market, which has been
running for over 900 years, takes place every Wednesday
and Saturday and has a wealth of traders selling everything
from watch batteries to tasty street food.
Recognising how much we all love a market at Christmas,
extra artisan pop ups have been arranged from 30th
November with the Christmas Charter Market running
every day from 12th December to Christmas Eve bringing a
fantastic atmosphere and festive cheer to the city centre.
Christmas
in
St Albans
Christmas will definitely be coming to
St Albans this year with preparations
underway to welcome visitors and
make destination St Albans a fantastic
experience for everyone.
Christmas sparkle
Building on the success of last year’s animated pieces, St
Albans city centre will have lots of twinkling lights and Instagram
opportunities. The extremely popular red carriage and snow
globe will return plus additional pieces yet to be announced
which may include a rather spectacular reindeer on a roof!
Festive shopping
The city centre is ready to welcome shoppers and visitors
safely with the relevant regulations and PPE in place in all of the
shops, bars, restaurants & cafes. Browse the The Maltings and
Christopher Place shopping centres or visit the independents
in the Cathedral Quarter of the High Street, Holywell Hill and
George Street.
Things to see and do
If shopping isn’t enough for you then take in some of the
city’s Roman and medieval history by strolling down to
Verulamium Park via the amazing cathedral and on to the
oldest pub in the country ‘Ye Olde Fighting Cocks’. Or grab
a coffee and sit by the medieval Clock Tower before visiting
the wonderful Museum & Gallery which hosts some really
fantastic exhibitions.
Places to stay
There really is so much to do in St Albans this Christmas
so why not make a weekend of it by staying in one of the
local hotels? The four-star Clarion Hotel overlooks the
Cathedral and is perfectly placed to explore the shops, cafes,
restaurants, bars and pubs that the city centre has to offer. Or,
if you’re looking for a luxurious treat, book a room or suite at
Sopwell House, a popular country house hotel in 12 acres of
grounds with a cocktail lounge, top-notch dining, swimming
pool and spa.
Virtual St Albans
Those who prefer to visit virtually can head to
www.enjoystalbans.com for the city’s online Christmas
activities for all the family or take a look at the shopping
directory and buy online to support local businesses. If you’re
stuck for present ideas, the St Albans Gift Card might be just
what you are looking for. Available at www.stalbansgiftcard.
co.uk and redeemable in over 50 independent stores, cafés
and restaurants locally.
For more information on everything happening in St Albans
this Christmas follow @enjoystalbans @shopstalbans on
Instagram and Facebook.
109

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Herts
Herts
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
11-Dec Lee and Dean’s Christmas Countdown
Britain’s worst builders and stars of Channel 4’s smash-hit
comedy, reunite for hilarious festive fun. The boys give DIY tips,
Christmas dinner advice, play games, sing songs and solve all of
your yuletide problems.
South Mill Arts, 1 -3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG
01279 710200 www.southmillarts.co.uk
12-Dec Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella
A love story set in London during the Second World War. A
chance meeting results in a magical night for Cinderella and her
dashing young RAF pilot who fall in love before being parted by
the Blitz.
The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School, The Ridgeway,
St. Albans, AL4 9NX
01727 799565 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk
12 Dec-3 Jan The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
A theatrical recreation of Eric Carle’s beautifully imaginative
stories featuring a menagerie of enchanting puppets during a
magical 50-minute show.
Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS
01992 504537 www.hertfordtheatre.com
15-19 Dec Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
An Edinburgh Festival must-see phenomenon and winner of an
Olivier Award. The Showstoppers transform your suggestions
into an entirely different show every time.
Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ
01923 225671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
05-Feb Jason Manford: Like Me
He’s back! It’s been a busy few years since his last smashhit
show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this
nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit.
Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN
01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
MUSIC
21-Jan One Night in Dublin
The Wild Murphys perform great Irish songs by The Pogues,
The Dubliners, The Fureys, The Saw Doctors and more.
Watersmeet, High Street, Rickmansworth, WD3 1EH
01923 711063 www.watersmeet.co.uk
30-Jan Just Judy
The new Judy Garland biopic packed with live performances
of her songs alongside astonishing tales from the roles that
brought international stardom.
South Mill Arts, 1 -3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG
01279 710200 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
09-Feb Jason Donovan – Even more Good Reasons
Jason Donovan sings his greatest pop hits along with his
favourite songs from his career in musicals.
Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN
01923 571102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
10 Oct-31 Jan Looking Back, Looking Forward
Telling the story of the city and surrounding district showing its
regional and national impact.
St Albans Museum + Gallery, Town Hall, St Peter’s Street, St
Albans, AL1 3DH
01279 710200 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk
13 Nov-21 Feb Cabaret Mechanical Marvels
These whimsical mechanical artworks illustrate their inner
workings at the push of a button or turn of a lever, enabling a
greater level of understanding of mechanics, engineering and art.
St Albans Museum + Gallery, Town Hall, St Peter’s Street,
St Albans, AL1 3DH
01279 710200 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
14 Nov-17Jan Hogwarts in the Snow
New for 2020, Diagon Alley will be given a festive makeover.
With wreaths and trees topped with witches on miniature
broomsticks in The Great Hall and original props in the
Gryffindor common room.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden,
WD25 7LR
0800 640 4550 www.wbstudiotour.co.uk
6, 13, 20 & 23-Dec Lunch with Santa
Give your family an early Christmas treat with lunch at Knebworth
Barns, complete with a visit from Santa and a gift for every child.
Knebworth House, Old Knebworth Lane, Stevenage SG3 6PY
01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com
12Dec-24Dec Christmas Charter Market
Come and join the Charter Market traders in St. Albans City
Centre this December for gifts, produce and Christmas spirit.
St Albans City Centre
www.enjoystalbans.com
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
06-Dec St Albans Antique & Vintage Market
A unique, urban street market with 80 dealers and a wonderful
relaxed atmosphere.
St Peters Street, St.Albans
www.enjoystalbans.com
20-Dec Potters Bar Antique & Vintage Fair “
Over 50 stalls including silver and enamel, quality jewellery,
vintage accessories, costume jewellery, china, glass, ephemera,
treen and more.
Wyllotts Theatre, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN
01480 382432 www.antiques-atlas.com
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Why I love
winter in
Cambridge
Banish the winter
blues with a city
break in Cambridge
Written by Emma Kemsley
There is no best time to visit Cambridge,
it’s a year-round destination. In spring
the city’s green spaces comes alive with
colourful flowers, summer lends itself
to punting and lazy days sprawled in
the parks, autumn sees students return
to the colleges and the foliage change
colour, and winter welcomes crowds of
shoppers, scarves flapping in the wind,
darting from store to store.
For me, winter in Cambridge feels extra
special. Scenes you read about in books
take place in front of your eyes; cobbled
streets filled with shoppers, steamedup
coffee shop windows and roaring
laughs spill from the warm glow of the
pubs.
Shopping
Under the twinkling festive lights,
residents and visitors bustle among
the Market Square and shopping malls.
Though our shopping experience
may feel a little different this year, and
online shopping should certainly be
encouraged, don’t miss an opportunity
to support local independents that
have truly felt the pinch of this year’s
pandemic. Sidney Street, Green Street,
King’s Street and Bridge Street are great
for browsing indie retailers. Expect to
find boutiques and stores stacked with
quirky gift ideas, designer brands and
handmade items.

Cambridgeshire
Where to eat
Foodies should slip down the side
street of All Saints Passage. A resident
favourite, The Cambridge Cheese
Shop, awaits. Taste samples at the deli
and buy cheese, wine and chutneys.
Gift hampers are available, but if you’re
feeling extra extravagant you can
arrange a cheese tasting in advance.
This is also the location of Hill St; a
delightful chocolatier.
It’s quite easy to eat your way around
Cambridge. The city has a delicious
café or restaurant on almost every
corner. Duck into Cambridge classic,
Fitzbillies, whose windows are stacked
with mouth-watering sticky buns. Aromi
tempts passers-by with its cheesy
pizzas, bulging arancini and Sicilian
desserts. Under the colourful canopies
of the market is a sweet and savoury
display of worldly cuisine. There’s also
a taste of Asia at the likes of Pho and the
newly opened, Giggling Squid.
Meat lovers should head to Bread +
Meat on Bene’t Street. Juicy, meats that
are cooked overnight are stuffed into
ciabatta, served as poutine or as a plated
meal with wedges, house slaw and oven
roasted vegetables. Simply divine!
To dine with unbeatable views of the
city, seek out SIX. Located on the sixth
floor of the Varsity Hotel, the restaurant
offers panoramic views of the city’s
skyline with its floor to ceiling windows.
Prior to dinner, perch yourself at the
chic, mirrored bar (COVID restrictions
permitting) and order a cocktail from the
extensive drink’s menu. For food, there’s
a selection of steaks from the grill,
and fish and meat dishes cooked on
a wood stone oven. Personally, I think
the highlight of the menu is the stone
baked pizzas coated with plenty of tasty
toppings to choose from.
Things to do
Wandering the streets admiring
Cambridge’s grand architecture is an
easy and free way to spend an afternoon.
You can also pay to visit the grounds of
some of the colleges, though numbers
are currently restricted, and you’ll need
to purchase your ticket in advance.
Embrace the cold winter air and take a
walk along the River Cam. A 45-minute
walk will bring you to the pretty village
of Grantchester. Alternatively, wander
around The Backs, where the colleges
and their grounds line the banks. Both
walks are best on cold, frosty mornings.
If you have time stop by Cambridge
University Botanic Gardens. The winter
garden is over 40 years old and features
brightly coloured florals, ornamental
trees, perennials and seasonal bulbs.
Winter opening hours are from 10am
to 4pm.
Of course, the British weather doesn’t
always play nice but on rainy, damp
days, the city’s museums and galleries
offer the perfect escape. First time
visitors should make their way to the
impressive Fitzwilliam Museum, which
presents world history and art from as
far back as 2500 BC to the present day.
The Cambridge Folk Museum is set in a
17th century building and shows how
people have lived, worked and played in
Cambridge since the 1660s.
To dine with unbeatable views
of the city, seek out SIX. Located
on the sixth floor of the Varsity
Hotel, the restaurant offers
panoramic views of the city’s
skyline with its floor to
ceiling windows.
Where to stay
There’s nothing quite like being in
the heart of the action when you visit
Cambridge. For great views, relaxation
and style, check-in to the Varsity Hotel
& Spa. Guests have access to the fully
equipped gym, steam room, sauna and
SPA pool, where you can relax among
the bubbles while watching the punts
float by. Quirky, bright artworks line the
walls of this modern boutique hotel.
Rooms are spacious and comfortable,
perfect for a good night’s sleep after
a long day stomping the streets of the
city. The hotel is perched on the edge of
Jesus Green, and minutes from shops,
bars and restaurants. However, you
don’t have to venture far for a bite to eat
or good cocktail, the hotel is the location
of SIX, and The Riverbar Steakhouse and
Grill is just around the corner. Rooms
rates start from £135 per night in early
December.
115

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and more of our products are being added every day.
We are offering a free delivery service within 10 miles
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We hold stock on the most popular ranges of cookware and
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not hold as a stock item at the time of your visit.
If you ever need our advice we have well trained staff that are
always on hand to help with advice on our product ranges.
If you only require a part for an accessory then please ask as
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116

Cambridgeshire
Cambs
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
15-24 Dec Christmas Carol
With live music, packed full of family fun and side splitting
comedy, Lamphouse’s one man version of A Christmas Carol will
bring you some much needed Christmas cheer!
Vivacity’s Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF
01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
16-Dec Jack Dee
His new stand-up tour. “In these difficult and uncertain times
people need hope – a ray of sunshine to brighten their day. And
that’s very much where I come in” says Jack.
Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE
01223 357851 www.cambridgelivetrust.org.uk
17-19 Dec The Nutcracker – A Film
Join Clara as she journeys through the magical Kingdom of
Sweets, meeting characters such as the bickering mice and the
Sugar Plum Fairy from the iconic Nutcracker tale. New 30 minute
film performed to the iconic Tchaikovsky score.
ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS
01223 300085 www.adctheatre.com
18 Dec-3 Jan The Wizard of Oz
Follow us down the Yellow Brick Road for our socially distanced
Christmas Pantomime based on the classic magical story.
The Maltings, Ship Lane, Ely, CB7 4BB
01353 662633 www.themaltingsely.org.uk/
04-Feb Ross Noble: Humournoid
What happens when pure comedy takes human form? What
happens when a creature is created and bred to do stand up?
Nobody knows because that isn’t a thing. What is a thing is Ross
Noble doing a show. You can come and see it. This is it.
Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE
01223 357851 www.cambridgelivetrust.org.uk
08-Feb Arabella Weir: Does My Mum Loom Big In This?
The mother of all confessional shows from the bestselling author
and star of The Fast Show and Two Doors Down. Featuring
hilarious stories from Arabella’s dysfunctional childhood, her
perilous career and her life as a single working mother.
The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX
01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk
17-18 Feb Room on the Broom
Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in a funfilled
adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling book by
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Will there ever be room on
the broom for everyone?
Vivacity’s Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF
01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
MUSIC
12-Dec Abba Forever
The unique Abba sound is replicated by this superb seven-piece
band. Two outstanding Abba girls complete the line-up, adding
glitz and glamour to a well-polished and gently humorous show.
Vivacity’s Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF
01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
09-Jan Trixie Mattel Grown Up
Drag queen, musician, stand up comedian, entertainer,
entrepreneur. Trixie’s on tour with an exciting electro-folk
reinvention.
Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE
01223 357851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
14 Nov-24 Dec Christmas Cracker 2020
Featuring a range of paintings, sculpture, craft work, prints and
jewellery so you can find something you love or the perfect gift.
Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ
01223 464646 byardart.co.uk
5 Jan-3 May
The Human Touch: Making Art, Leaving Traces
Drawing on works of art spanning four thousand years and from
across the globe, this exhibition explores the fundamental role
of touch in human experience and offers new ways of looking.
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge,
CB2 1RB
01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
23-Dec Ely Christmas & Farmers’ Market
Festive food, gifts and flowers with a range of stalls from across
all the Ely markets plus additional gifts, food & crafts.
Market Place, Ely, CB7 4NT
www.elymarkets.co.uk/
27-Dec Christmas Eel Walk
Discover the eel trade with this walk around the Eel Trail. Marvel
at the artworks connected to our heritage and learn from expert
guides. Pre-booking advised.
Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s St, Ely, CB7 4HF
01353 662062 www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
29-Dec Christmas Riverside Walk
A wintery tour taking in the city centre as well as the stunning
riverside. Learn about the draining of the fens, the life of the Fen
Folk and how the river serves visitors and residents today.
Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s St, Ely, CB7 4HF
01353 662062 www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
5Dec-27Feb
Ely Craft, Food & Vintage Market
One of the most diverse markets in Cambridgeshire with a
wonderful mix of quirky antiques, books, artisan produce and
handmade crafts. Saturdays 8.30am-3.30pm
Market Place, Ely, CB7 4NT
www.elymarkets.co.uk/
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118

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NorfolkSecret Norfolk:
1.
Looses Emporium
I will start in Norwich with the antiques
store, Looses Emporium, on Magdalen
Street. A real treasure trove for vintage
and antiques hunters, and the largest
antiques and collectables centre in East
Anglia that I have found. I can easily
spend a couple of hours just browsing.
It’s well worth heading off the beaten
track for.
2.
Roys of Wroxham
I will continue in a shopping vein
with the fabulous Roys of Wroxham;
a traditional department store in the
centre of Wroxham on the Norfolk
Broads. It’s always worth a visit and
there is lots of free parking. It’s one of my
favourite rainy day activities.
Hidden Treasures
Wild and wonderful,
Norfolk is full of hidden
treasures. Resident and
holiday home owner,
Kate Garside, shares her
top 10 Norfolk gems to
discover this winter.
Written by Kate Garside |
www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk
3.
Hickling Broad
Hickling Broad is another treasure at
the quieter end of the Norfolk Broads.
Spectacular scenery, lots of wildlife and
kept peaceful because the large boats
can’t get under Potter Heigham bridge.
The best way to explore is by a day or
or sailing boat, which can be hired from
Martham Ferry Boat Yard.
4.
Oxburgh Hall
Oxburgh Hall, near Swaffham, is a
treasure I have only discovered this
year, thanks to my latest puppy who
goes to dog training nearby. Owned by
the National Trust, both the halls and
gardens are a real treat and well worth
a visit. The gardeners are also very
knowledgeable and happy to talk about
the restoration work they are doing
to the gardens. The gardens are also
dog-friendly.
120

Norfolk
5.
Biddy’s Tearoom
Biddy’s Tearoom is a lovely traditional
tearoom, in the pretty Georgian market
town of Aylsham. The cakes are
amazing, and they have lots of looseleaf
teas for you to try. Go on the farmer’s
market day for an extra treat and meet
lots of local producers.
6.
The Horning Deli
The Horning Deli is another of my
favourite places for lunch or for special
items for a picnic. Their individual
quiches are wonderful. Horning is a
very pretty Norfolk Broads village on
the water and well worth a visit and a
wander around. There are always lots
of boats to see and pretty waterside
properties.
7.
Holt Antiques and
Interiors Centre
Holt Antiques and Interiors Centre, just
outside Holt, on the road to Thornage,
is a must visit. Browse this 3,000 sq foot
antiques centre and you’re sure to find
something to interest you. Afterwards
you can pop into the pretty Georgian
town of Holt where you will be spoilt for
choice for lovely places to eat or have
tea and cake. Head a little further to one
of my favourite places to eat, Back To
The Garden. The spectacular converted
barn and deli wins me over every time.
8.
Waxham Beach
Waxham beach followed by tea and
cake at the magnificent Waxham Barn
– the largest barn in Norfolk. It’s a great
beach for walking dogs particularly in
winter, followed by coffee and cake to
warm up. You might even spot some
grey seals swimming in the sea.
9.
Wiveton Downs
Take a walk at Wiveton Downs. This
must be one of North Norfolk’s best kept
secrets as there is rarely anyone there.
Park at the bottom and walk up to the
top of the Downs and there is the most
wonderful view of the North Norfolk
Coast. It’s probably one of the highest
points in North Norfolk.
10.
Somerleyton Hall
Somerleyton Hall, not actually in Norfolk
but just over the border in Suffolk, is
one of my most recent hidden treasures
that I have discovered, and it is just
wonderful. The gardens and grounds
are undergoing a restoration, and it has
been lovely to see the progress so far.
It closes to visitors over the winter but
definitely one to put in your diary for
next spring.
121

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HIGH QUALITY DESIGNS & SUPERIOR SERVICE
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THE WILDLIFE SHOP
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122

Winter is Coming
Winter is Coming
Throughout
Throughout
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the
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Able
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Norfolk
A Winter Break in
Norwich
10 reasons to make this fine
city top of your travel list this
winter
Written by Bob Cox-Wrightson | Twitter @bobcw
Norwich is a beautiful medieval city in the heart of Norfolk and
makes for a great winter destination. The compact city centre is
a pleasure to explore, with a great selection of shops and cafes,
and history around every corner. Norwich is easy to get to via
direct trains from Cambridge and Ely. It’s also a short trip to the
coast or the countryside, including the Broads National Park
and the North Norfolk coast.
Shopping
Norwich has two shopping centres – Chantry Place and The
Castle Quarter – as well as a thriving market, and the unmissable
Norwich Lanes. The Lanes are a series of alleyways, courtyards
and open spaces, which are home to over 300 independent
retailers, cafès, restaurants, pubs and bars, selling everything
from antiques and vintage clothing to records and health foods.
It’s easy to spend hours exploring what this area has to offer,
including the Norwich institution that is Jarrold’s Department
Store. For over 200 years it has featured a mix of exclusive brands
and local products, and is also a showcase of the incredible
history and architecture within the Norwich Lanes.
Food and Drink
Bars and beers, cafes and coffee shops, restaurants and street
food – if you’re a foodie then this is the city for you. Stand-out
venues are The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, offering sophisticated
and friendly all-day dining, with interiors adorned with artwork
referencing the local area. Harriet’s Cafe Tearooms serves an
afternoon tea of delicate finger sandwiches, fruity scones and
delicious cakes – it’s a must; and the Fat Cat Pub, serving an everchanging
array of 30-plus real ales, which have earned it multiple
‘Pub of the Year’ awards – they even have their own brewery.
124

Norfolk
Art
A short walk from the University of East Anglia is one of the
best galleries in the country; The Sainsbury Centre for Visual
Arts. Recent exhibitions have included controversial works by
Antony Gormley and displays of landscape paintings by David
Hockney and Claude Monet. Set in a spectacular Norman
Foster building, exhibitions for winter 2020 include Art Nouveau:
The Nature of Dreams until January 2021, and Bill Brandt and
Henry Moore, exploring the work of these two great artists until
7 March 2021.
History
The magnificent Romanesque Cathedral is set in 44 acres of
beautiful grounds (known locally as the ‘village within the city’).
It’s an awe-inspiring building with spectacular architecture, the
largest monastic cloisters in England, and more than a thousand
beautiful medieval roof boss sculptures.
Hidden Gem
The Plantation Garden is a 3-acre garden established over 100
years ago in an abandoned chalk quarry, 600 yards from the city
centre. Featuring an Italianate terrace, woodland walkways and
a Victorian-style greenhouse, the garden is heavily wooded and
provides a habitat for wildlife, making it a haven of peace and
tranquility and a glimpse into a bygone age.
Location
The Norfolk Broads and the beautiful North Norfolk coast are
just a short train ride away and make for a great day out on a
crisp winter’s day. Choose from the Wherry Lines, which pass
through the Broads of Norfolk and Suffolk, or hop on the Bittern
Line, which links the city to the seaside towns of Cromer and
Sheringham, and the heritage North Norfolk Railway.
Contacts
www.fatcatpub.co.uk
www.harrietscafetearooms.co.uk
www.theivynorwich.com
www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk
Christmas activities
During the festive season Norwich comes alive. Though
COVID may limit the fun, a number of events will be going
ahead with safety measures in place. Check
www.visitnorwich.co.uk when planning your trip.
Don’t miss the twinkling Tunnel of Light; a Norwich
Christmas tradition. The dazzling Projections on Norwich
Castle return from November to January. With a nod to
the history of the building and traditional Christmas storytelling
elements, a short film will transform the castle over
the Christmas period and into the New Year when another
film will complete the story.
125

CORN
EXCHANGE
CINEMA
NOW OPEN
BOOK ONLINE: KINGSLYNNCORNEXCHANGE.CO.UK
Alive CE cinema YLP half page ad ART.indd 1 15/09/2020 10:19
Enjoy intimate performances at the historic Maddermarket
Theatre, local community theatre venue since 1921
Plays | Music | Talks | Opera | Classes | Workshops
Group discounts available
Box office 01603 620917 - maddermarket.co.uk
Maddermarket Theatre St John’s Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR
126

Norfolk
Norfolk
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
4 Dec-1 Jan Strictly Christmas
Hosted by Norfolk funny man Olly Day and an array of entertainers
in a celebration of variety and the arts. Expect some talented faces
that have graced the theatre’s famous stage before and also some
new ones in a 90-minute variety extravaganza.
Cromer Pier, The Promenade, Cromer, NR27 9HE
01263 512495 www.cromerpier.co.uk
16-23 Dec A Circus Carol
Charles Dickens’ classic is turned on its head in this spectacular
production filled with gasps, thrills and laughs. Combining
acrobatics and amazing trickery with ghosts of Christmas past,
present and future. this re-imagining. All the thrills of the original
tale with even more spectacle.
Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich , NR2 1RL
01603 630 000 www.norwichtheatre.org
16-24 Dec Panto in a Pickle!
There has been a terrible mess-up in Panto-land. What is
Cinderella doing with those magic beans? Why did Captain
Hook stop Snow White going to the ball? How did Aladdin end
up in an enchanted sleep? This really is Panto in a Pickle!
Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich , NR2 1RL
01603 630 000 www.norwichtheatre.org
19 Dec-1 Jan Mother Goose
A cracking Christmas panto! A poor woman befriends a magical
goose that provides her with golden eggs. She is rich, but there
is something she wants more than money - she wants to be
young and beautiful.
Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH
01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk
22-24 Dec Rapunzel the Lockdown Pantomime
A socially distanced pantomime where we get to shout, “It’s
Behind You!” to 2020. Expect the usual family festive fun packed
with songs, slapstick and hilarity. So let your hair down with
Rapunzel and join us for a hair-raising adventure!
2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE
01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
MUSIC
6 Dec-3Jan The Magic of Christmas
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and now more than ever
we should celebrate by enjoying all our favourite Christmas
songs wrapped up in this wonderful new production performed
by a truly amazing cast.
Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, Norfolk NR31 6PP
01493 662832 www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk
26-Feb The Unravelling Wilburys
Playing the country-rock songs of the Traveling Wilburys, the
band’s great combination of brilliant musicianship and tongue
in cheek humour has had rave reviews throughout the UK.
Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR
01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk
28-Feb The Songs of Stevie Wonder
Presented by the Leo Green Orchestra as broadcast on
BBC Radio 2. This fantastic show is not a tribute show, it is a
celebration of the great icon’s music.
Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH
01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
5 Dec-6 Jan Christmas Exhibition: Part 2
View winter and festive inspired works from a range of artists.
Bircham Gallery,14 Market Place,Holt,NR25 6BW
01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk
6 Feb-16 May Grayson Perry: The Pre-Therapy Years
Grayson Perry’s groundbreaking ‘lost’ pots will be reunited for
the first time to focus on the formative years of one of Britain’s
most recognisable artists. The works explore the themes of
fetishism, gender, class, his home county of Essex, and the
vagaries of the art world.
Salisbury Centre, University of East Anglia, Norfolk Road,
Norwich, NR4 7TJ
01603 593199 www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
20 Nov-20 Dec Luminate Light Trail
As darkness descends, join us on an enchanting journey,
a captivating light trail weaving through the Country Park.
Immerse yourself in a mesmerising mile long trail, with
interactive stunning lighting elements and fabulous light play,
all set to ambient music. Entry 4.30-9pm.
Sandringham, King’s Lynn, PE35 6EN
01485 545400 www.sandringhamestate.co.uk
7-21 Dec Gardens, Grottos, Trees and Terraces
A guided tour of the Secret Garden. You may have glimpsed
the intricate terraces when visiting Holkham Hall, but did you
know that there is a hidden private garden to the east of the hall
with its own arboretum and even a grotto? This tour will delight
garden lovers and history afficionados alike.
Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AB
01328 713104 www.holkham.co.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
06-Dec St Albans Antique & Vintage Market
A unique, urban street market with 80 dealers and a wonderful
relaxed atmosphere.
St Peters Street, St.Albans
www.enjoystalbans.com
20-Dec Potters Bar Antique & Vintage Fair
Over 50 stalls including silver and enamel, quality jewellery,
vintage accessories, costume jewellery, china, glass, ephemera,
treen and more.
Wyllotts Theatre, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN
01480 382432 www.antiques-atlas.com
127

We are
open for
admissions
EXCEPTIONAL CARE
IN WOODBRIDGE
Grove Court is one of a select
group of care homes operated by
Elizabeth Finn Homes and offers
a home from home for discerning
guests who appreciate comfort,
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We offer personal or nursing care
on a permanent or short stay basis,
as well as end of life care, all to the
same exceptional standard.
From award-winning restaurant
style dining to beautiful landscaped
gardens and industry leading social
engagement, Grove Court provides
the highest level of service and
facilities.
TOP
20
AWARD 2019
Why not come and see for yourself?
Call Helen Jones, our General
Manager on Tel: 01394 446500
or email:
enquiries.grovecourt@efhl.co.uk
GROVE COURT
Beech Way,
Woodbridge,
Suffolk IP12 4BW
No hidden charges | Charity Owned | Well-established | Reputation for high quality care
www.efhl.co.uk
With permission of EDP - credit Simon Finley
Your legacy can help EACH be there for future generations,
helping every child make the most of life – no matter how short.
To receive your information pack, call 01223 204913, email supportercare@each.org.uk or complete the coupon below:
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Please send me my legacy information pack
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can support us, including fundraising and volunteering. Your information will be held
securely with all reasonable precautions used to protect it. We will never sell or swap
your data. Your data may be used for supporter profiling and is only shared with
service providers we work with to further our charitable aims.
EACH requires your consent to process your information in this way. Your data will
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128

Bury St Edmunds Gift Card
helps to support local businesses by keeping the spend local
To find out where you can purchase or use this gift card please visit:
www.ourburystedmunds.com
Brought to you by

Suffolk
Christmas
in Bury
St Edmunds
Stuck for a Christmas present idea for someone? Is it the
person who always says ‘just give me money’ even though
using cash is being discouraged during the pandemic? Then
the Our Bury St Edmunds Town Gift Card could be the answer
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This brand-new initiative works in the same way as buying a
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Not only does buying an Our Bury St Edmunds Card take the
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If you’re given an Our
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So if you’re not sure
whether your family
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home or perhaps to help top up their grocery shop you can now
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For more information or to buy the card online – and to take the
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131

WE HAVE
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Ipswich 01473 253164 | glasswells.co.uk

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Re-upholstery service also available
Edward Charles Interiors, No.9 (rear of), Ringers Yard
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133

Suffolk
A Day Trip to
Lavenham and
Long Melford
Thatched cottages, cobbled streets, tearooms,
galleries and cosy country pubs; read our guide to
two of Suffolk’s prettiest villages
134

Suffolk
Lavenham and Long Melford really do
have to be visited to be appreciated.
Those white timber-clad buildings may
look beautiful in photographs, but up
close and personal they’re even more
spectacular.
A visit to these Suffolk villages will
make you appreciate the history of our
beautiful region. Here are a few things to
put on your bucket list if you’re visiting
the area:
LAVENHAM
LONG MELFORD
Places to visit
Stop by the Guildhall, Little Hall Museum
and Tourist Information Centre to learn
about Lavenham’s past. In the 1300s
Lavenham was the 14th richest town in
the country. Home to a thriving
wool industry, its buildings were built
by wealthy merchants. Today they
house the likes of the Guildhall, pubs,
hotels and coffee shops. Despite
succumbing to modern culture,
Lavenham has thankfully kept much of
its old-world charm.
Dotted around the Market Place
and along the High Street you’ll find
independent boutiques, coffee shops
and salons. Art lovers will be spoilt for
choice with its many galleries featuring
works from local artists. Lavenham
Contemporary is worth a visit too; book
ahead before visiting.
Explore the cobbled streets and
you’ll find fashion boutiques and
homewares stores. Housed in pretty
historic buildings, shopping here
feels special. Stop by the Little White
Box for furnishings so beautiful you’ll
immediately want to redecorate
your home.
Restaurants in Lavenham
When it comes to eating, there’s plenty
of options – the hardest decision will
be settling on just one. Pretty quaint
tea rooms are perfect for light bites
but for a warming lunch its best to
sample the local pub scene. The Angel
on the Market Place and Lavenham
Greyhound on the High Street both
serve hearty pub grub alongside a
selection of beverages including some
tasty local ales.
If it’s fine dining you’re looking for book
a table at The Great House Hotel &
Restaurant. Housed in a 15th century
building, the restaurant has a charming
atmospheric feel and serves exquisitely
presented French cuisine.
Things to do
Take time to wander and appreciate this
village. An ideal place to begin a stroll
is at the Holy Trinity Church, which like
many in the area is a wool church
from the 15th century, a product of
prosperity among local cloth merchants
of the time.
A visit to Long Melford wouldn’t be
complete without a trip to Melford Hall.
Run by the National Trust it is one of two
Tudor mansions in close proximity and
is a fine example of Elizabethan life.
Then there is Kentwell Hall; a romantic,
completely moated, redbrick Tudor
mansion in a tranquil parkland setting.
There is lots to do at the Hall. In addition
to the house and gardens, look out for
the award-winning seasonal events. Try
to catch one of the renowned Tudor
re-enactments.
Shopping
There are a great variety of places to
buy quality goods of all sorts, including
fashion, home furnishings, works of art
and food to name a few, as well as the
antiques for which the village is famous.
Most stores offer one-off pieces you
won’t find on the high street. Get into the
vibe of a time gone by with a visit to the
vintage and antiques stores. Art lovers
should head to the Lime Tree Gallery,
located on Hall Street. Here you’ll
discover contemporary fine art and
glass and regular exhibitions throughout
the year.
Besides shopping, there are many more
charming restaurants and typical Suffolk
inns to be found such as The Black
Lion and Long Melford Swan, while an
indoor farmers’ market is held at the
Village Memorial Hall on the second
Saturday of every month.
135

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Suffolk
Suffolk
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
12-Dec Ghost Stories for Christmas
These tales are not intended to warm you with seasonal
cheer. Witness four eerie and spine-chilling ghost stories that
will follow you home long after you have heard them. ‘Tis the
season to be… terrified! In aid of Lowestoft Foodbank.
The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH
01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
19-23 Dec Dame Dora’s Pop Up Panto Party
That’s Entertainment Productions are refusing to let the Covid
Grinch steal our Christmas. Dame Dora Trolley hosts her very own
panto party bursting with madcap magicians, jumping jugglers,
silly songs and even the legendary ghost scene with a twist!
Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR
01440 710174 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
22-Jan An Evening with Brian Blessed
A giant of a man, accompanied by an eloquent wit and
booming, operatic voice who is also an avid explorer and
climber. Anecdotes from his illustrious acting career with tales of
his adventuring.
The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD
01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk
8-13 Feb Hairspray
It’s Baltimore 1962 and Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair
and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to dance her way onto
national TV. Tracy uses her new-found fame to fight for equality,
bagging the local heartthrob along the way.
Regent Theatre, 3 St. Helen’s St, Ipswich, IP4 1HE
01473 433100 www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk
25-Feb Rhod Gilbert: The Book of John
The multi-award winning Welsh comedian is back with a brand
new live show. After a seven-year break and just when he
thought he’d hit rock bottom he met a bloke... called John.
Regent Theatre, 3 St. Helen’s St, Ipswich, IP4 1HE
01473 433100 www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk
MUSIC
10-Dec Christmas Crooners
Following a sellout show in October, Masters of Swing return
with their festive show celebrating the best singers from
the golden age of swing and the big band era in a fun-filled,
traditional style holidays special.
The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH
01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
05-Feb Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush
Championed by BBC One as one of the most authentic tributes
in the world, Cloudbusting’s passion for Kate’s music has won
over fans everywhere, resulting in sell-out performances across
the UK. Expect all the hits!
The Marina Theatre, Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH
01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk
18-Feb Gigspanner Big Band
A unique force in British folk music. Influential musicians, all with
their own unique identity, producing an electrifying force that is
even greater than the impressive sum of its parts.
The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY
0300 3033 211 www.newcut.org
ARTS & CULTURE
14 Nov-4 Jan Mixed Christmas Exhibition
Showcasing work from all of the gallery’s regular artists.
Southwold Gallery, 64a High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DN
01502 723888 www.southwoldgallery.co.uk
13-22 Feb Driftwood & Glass Exhibition
Exhibition of some of the region’s favourite artists including
Naomi Brangwyn, Seth Draper, Lynne Muir and Andy Povey.
Southwold Gallery, 64a High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DN
01502 723888 www.southwoldgallery.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
24 Oct-20 Dec Moyse’s Hall: The Museum Strikes Back
2020 marks 40 years since Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
hit the big screen. Explore the movie that introduced us to Yoda,
AT-AT walkers and a shocking family revelation!
Moyse’s Hall Museum, Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1DX
01284 706183 www.moyseshall.org
6-20 Dec Santa Specials at the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway
The popular event returns, offering several dates in December
to enjoy the magical train ride. Passengers ride form Brockford
Station all the way to North Pole Halt, where each child meets
Santa himself and gets a gift from the magic brake van.
Brockford Station, Wetheringsett, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 5PW
01449 766874 www.mslr.org.uk/contact-us/
1-9 Dec Christmas Chocolate Workshop
Join The Food Hub’s chef for a chocolate filled day learning
how to make truffles and creating a magnificent yule log.
The Food Hub, Bellwell Lane, Debenham, IP14 6JF
01728 862062 www.foodhubsuffolk.co.uk
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
06-Dec Antique & Collectors Fair
Over 60 tables offering a variety of items. Large free car park.
The Best Western Hotel, London Rd, Copdock, Ipswich IP8 3JD
01702 410171 www.gnbfairs.com
30-31 Jan Long Melford Antiques & Vintage Fair
Over 30 stalls offering jewellery, ceramics, militaria, collectables,
toys, postcards, books, tribal art, kitchenalia, vintage clothes and
accessories and more. Homemade refreshments at the vintage
cafe. 9.30am-4pm
The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX
07837 497617 www.melfordantiquesfair.co.uk
137

The
Creek
Restaurant
Bar
Lounge
Carve A Roast Sunday Option
For you - your family and friends
Visit the website for more information
2 for 1 Cocktail Hour
Every Wednesday to Friday 6.30pm - 7.30pm
Courtyard and bar offering outdoor dining
West Street Vineyard
offers a beautiful
setting for perfect day
Choice of menus to suit
every style and occasion
from a formal sit down
to an informal barbecue
in the vines.
Every wedding is special and therefore we make
every wedding unique so that you have the
opportunity to create your perfect day.
Coggeshall Essex CO6 1NS
www.weststreetvineyard.co.uk
The Creek, Flag Hill, Great Bentley,
Colchester CO7 8RE
01255 317950
www.thecreekgreatbentley.co.uk
RESTAURANT OF
THE YEAR
Klarners Executive Travel is a family run business operating out of Colchester, Essex.
With our own fleet of Executive coaches, equipped with the latest in vehicle and safety technology, we ensure our
passengers travel experience is always of outstanding quality.
With ample storage on board, Klarners can accommodate everyone’s luggage, along with any specialist kit or
equipment that’s needed. Our fleet of executive coaches also boasts luxury reclining seats, air conditioning and
toilet/washroom facilites.
Klarners Executive Travel works with leading Holiday Companies and Tourist Offices, offering group,
corporate and private hire in addition to luxury tours across the UK.
For enquiries and bookings, please call us on 01206 841211,
or alternatively e-mail us at info@klarnercoaches.co.uk.
Full details of our 2020 Day Excursions and Tours can be found on our website,
www.klarnerscoaches.co.uk
...Enjoy the Journey
138

Essex
A Weekend in
Colchester
Looking for a winter break that
combines town life with coast
and country? Visit Colchester; a
thriving Essex town, steeped in
history, yet only a short distance
from charming Constable
Country and the coastal delights
of Mersea Island.
Colchester, Britain’s oldest town, is home to some of the
region’s most interesting heritage and history. From Saxon to
Medieval, Tudors to Stuarts and Georgian to Victorian, each
era has shaped the town in some way. Today it’s not just
Colchester’s vast heritage that attracts over 4.5 million visitors
every year, its tourist attractions make the town great for both a
day trip or weekend break.
Shopping
Market days, every Friday and Saturday
High Street
Colchester Farmer’s Market, first Friday of every month
Colchester Arts Centre
Independent stores
From Crouch Street to The South Lanes, explore the narrow
streets and discover boutiques, vintage clothing and tearooms.
Fenwick
Standing proud on the High Street, make sure you visit this
iconic department store.
Shopping Centres
There are two indoor shopping centre; Culver Square and Lion
Walk, that between them house many high street retailers.
Entertainment
Mercury Theatre | www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
Firstsite | www.firstsite.uk
The Minories Art Gallery | www.theminoriesgalleries.co.uk
Colchester Arts Centre | www.colchesterartscentre.com
Things to do
Colchester Zoo
Learn about the animals as you see them up close, watch one of
many daily displays and visit the interactive play areas.
www.colchester-zoo.com
Colchester Castle
Soak up 2,000 years of history. Discover archaeological collections
and learn more about the town’s past with its programme of talks,
tours, quizzes and workshops, for both families and adults.
www.cimuseums.org.uk/visit/venues/colchester-castle
TOP TIP: Visit nearby Dedham for beautiful riverside walks
and cosy country pubs. If you prefer a crisp winter’s walk along
the beach, then hop in the car and visit Mersea Island; a rustic
coastal town, located a 25-minute drive away. The beach
is lined with pretty pastel beach huts, and there’s plenty of
opportunity to try the region’s famous oysters which come into
season at this time of year.
More info at www.visitcolchester.com
139

2 FOR 1
MONDAY &
TUESDAY
SUNDAY
LUNCH
NELS
Food served
12:00 - 2:30pm
5:30 - 8:30pm
CHANNELS
Bar & Brasserie
2 Courses
for £21.95
3 Courses
for £26.95
CHANN
Weddin
TLE
NELS
CHAN THAI
WEDNESDAYS
Authentic Thai Food
Wednesday evenings (5:30 - 8:30pm)
Takeaway menu also available
LITTLE
CHANNELS
Bar & Bistro
CHRISTMAS DAY
& BOXING DAY
Bookings now being taken
For full details and menu visit:
www.channelsestate.co.uk
LITT
CHANN
Weddi
TLE
NELS
Dine on the finest locally sourced produce
crafted into stunning rustic fine dining menus by
our talented Head Chef Dan Pitts. The ultimate
destination bar and restaurant in Chelmsford.
Discover all our menus and events at:
www.channelsestate.co.uk
Booking is strongly recommended.
To book a table please phone:
01245 440 005
CHANN
E S TA
Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East, Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT (Entrance by the Park & Ride)

Essex
ELS
gs
A Guide to
Chelmsford
Whether it’s a day trip or weekend break, there’s plenty to see
and do in this buzzing Essex city
Home to shopping centres and glorious parks, Chelmsford
is officially labelled as a city. It has grown immensely over
the last few years with modern property developments and
improvements to the town centre, including the Bond Street
shopping area. It’s home to a number of high street stores, a
cinema and John Lewis’ first Essex-based store.
Shopping
Chelmsford is the place to go for Christmas or sale shopping.
There’s a number of malls housing the usual high street retailers,
plus larger retail parks a short drive away. For independent
boutiques and coffee shops head to Moulsham Street.
LE
ngs
TE
ELS
ELS
Places to visit
Hylands House
A stunning Grade II listed property, situated in 574 acres of
historic landscaped parkland. With events and shows on all
year round, it is the perfect day out for all the family. Wrap up
warm and take a walk around the beautiful grounds.
www.hylandsestate.co.uk
Chelmsford Museum
Set in a Victorian house in Oaklands Park, there are temporary
exhibitions and family activities such as interactive displays and
dress up, along with special events and open days.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums
Entertainment
Chelmsford is home to three theatres; The Civic Theatre,
Cramphorn Theatre and Old Court Theatre. All offer a diverse
range of performances throughout the year. Keep up-to date with
the latest productions at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres
Food & Drink
You’ll find the usual chains scattered throughout the main
shopping areas as well as independent cafes, bistros and pubs,
riverside dining and nightlife.
www.chelmsfordforyou.co.uk/directory/dining
What’s on
Christmas is a time to get crafting, and for those wanting to
make their own festive decorations, Hylands House will be
hosting a ‘keepsake stained glass Christmas decoration’
workshop on selected dates through November and
December. Participants will be limited due to COVID measures,
so book your space fast! Price £90.
www.hylandsestate.co.uk/events
Sit down for breakfast or supper with Santa at Channels Estate
throughout December. There will be a Christmas box of fun for
each child, table gift, biscuit decorating and of course, a visit
from the big man in red! Tables are limited to six only, including
babies. This is a popular event with some dates are already sold
out. Don’t hesitate to book.
www.channelschelmsford.co.uk/christmas
141

Wise
Wedding
Venue
Wells
BCA Paddock
Wood
The Hop Farm
Paddock
Wood
Waitrose
Tesco
Esso
Putlands Sports
& Leisure Centre
Lucks Lane
Fishery
Ashford
Spill Land
Farm
Country Park
A262
Tunbridge
Wells
Bressenden
SISSINGHURST RD.
FOSTEN
LANE
CRANBROO K ROAD
West House
Restaurant
Maidstone
Barclay
Farmhouse
SPILL
LAND FARM
HOLIDAY
PARK
BENENDEN ROAD
Biddenden
Vineyards
HIG H HALDEN ROAD
TENTERDEN ROAD
GRIBBLE BRIDG E LANE
Biddenden
Golf Course
Ashford
A28
Benenden Road,
Biddenden, Ashford
Kent TN27 8BX
OPEN
365 DAYS
A YEAR!
Luxury lodges from £169,995
WE MAY CONSIDER
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Essex
Essex
WHAT’S ON
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
27 Dec-3 Jan Sleeping Beauty
A Spellbinding family pantomime. King Egbert forgets to
invite the wicked fairy Carabosse to celebrate the birth of his
daughter, Princess Rose. The evil sorceress proclaims that Rose
shall prick her finger on a spindle and die. Can Rose’s friends
save her and make her dreams come true?
Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG
01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk
4Dec-3 Jan
Treasure Island
All aboard the Jolly Roger for our swashbuckling, social
distancing adventure. Join Jim Hawkins as he sets sail to find
the lost treasure of Captain Flint, but will the evil Sea Witch foil
their plans and get the treasure for herself?
Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS
01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com
12-2 Dec The Great Christmas Sleigh Ride
Lily, with the help of her brother Jack, is determined to deliver
her letter to Father Christmas. But they don’t have a sleigh and
they don’t actually know how to get to the North Pole. A funfilled,
sing-along, interactive festive show for 2-6 year olds.
“Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS
01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com
17-20 Dec The Christmas Show
If you’re looking for an alternative to pantomime, this Christmas
Show is just the ticket! Filled with plenty of festive cheer,
comedy, song and dance, it really is the perfect way to get ready
for Christmas.
West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton, CO15 1LE
01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
9-13 Feb Dial M for Murder
Tom Chambers stars as the charismatic and manipulative
Tony Wendice, a jaded ex-tennis pro who has given it all up
for his wife Margot (Sally Bretton). When he discovers she’s
been unfaithful his mind turns to revenge and the pursuit of the
‘perfect crime’.
Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA
01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
13-Feb Exciting Science
This brand new exciting and educational show will amaze and
astound all ages from 4 years upwards. So stand clear and
prepare for action with lots of of wiz, bang, pop and splurt!
West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton, CO15 1LE
01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
MUSIC
06-Feb Ronan Keating: Twenty Twenty
Part of a tour celebrating the release of his latest album. Ronan
describes his new record as “a greatest hits of brand-new
music”. He revisits three of his biggest hits plus new tracks
recorded with friends including Emeli Sande.
Cliffs Pavillion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA
01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
12-Feb Showaddwaddy
Europe’s most successful ever exponents of retro-inspired
rock & roll with 23 Top 40 hit singles, including 10 Top 5 hits.
Performing ‘Under The Moon of Love’, ‘You Got What It Takes’,
‘3 Steps To Heaven’, ‘Hey Rock & Roll’ and more.
Princes Theatre, Town Hall, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE
01255 686633 www.princestheatre.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
26 Sep - 4 Mar A Turner at The Castle
‘Walton Bridges’ was painted by Turner in 1806 close to his
home on the River Thames. Colchester + Ipswich Museums
were instrumental in a bid to help save it for the nation. Further
support from the Friends of Colchester Museums has brought
this stunning artwork to Colchester Castle.
Colchester Castle Museum, Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ
www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
28 Nov-3 Jan Princes on Ice
A synthetic Ice Rink for the festive season. It’s a big change
from a pantomime will hopefully still help bring a little Christmas
magic that the whole family can enjoy!
Princes Theatre, Town Hall, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE
01255 686633 www.princestheatre.co.uk
12-13 Dec Father Christmas at Marks Hall Estate
Experience the magic of Christmas. Step into the festive garden
and help Father Christmas find his reindeer in time for the big
day - a tasty gingerbread treat will be your reward! Make a
Christmas decoration and meet Father Christmas.
Marks Hall Estate, Marks Hall Road, Coggeshall, CO6 1TG
01376 563796 www.markshall.org.uk
26 Dec-3 Jan Christmas Adventure Quest
Join our festively-fun quest. Explore and discover fun facts and
untold stories in the places where history happened! Hunt for
clues and QR codes which reveal quirky tales and lead you to a
small reward.
Wrest Park, Audley End, Saffron Walden, MK45 4HR
0370 333 1181 www.earm.co.uk/spring-steam-gala/
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
12-Dec Antiques & Collectables Fair
A selection of Christmas gifts in this modern venue with great
access. Glass, china, figurines, postcards, pottery, barometers,
records, jewellery (gold, silver and bling), die-cast vehicles,
stamps, coins, ephemera and more. Homemade refreshments.
Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois, CM16 7ER
07780 971214
01-Jan Essex Absofab Vintage, Collectors, Antiques
Fabulous stalls offering you a wide range of vintage, curios,
retro, small antiques and collectables from over 25 stands.
Homemade refreshments, on site parking, wheelchair access,
pets allowed. 11am-4pm
St. John’s Church Hall, High Road, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5RX
07956 221710
143

COLCHESTER
PARK AND RIDE
WINTER OFFERS
Beat the traffic
when commuting,
shopping or visiting
friends and family!
Buy the £5 all day
Group Ticket.
You can use it for up
to two adults and
three children.
Simply pre-buy via Mi Permit or on
bus park your car and get on board.
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday 5.30am–9.30pm
Saturday 7am–6.45pm
For prices, route and times go to:
essex.gov.uk/parkandride

R EMASTERING
T H E HOME CINEMA EXPERIENCE
The customisable home cinema experience delivers vivid
image clarity, and a superior range of dynamic sound.
Flexibility to build and expand your system over time.
Experience it at your local Bang & Olufsen store.
B A N G & O L U F S E N O F C H E L M S F O R D 16-18 NEW LONDO N RO AD, CHELMSFORD , CM2 0SP 01245 266117
B A N G & O L U F S E N O F C O L C H E S T E R 6 1 H I GH STREET, COLCHESTER, CO1 1DN 01206 763344

ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation
University Arms
Situated in the heart of Cambridge overlooking Parker’s Piece.
The highest quality linens can be found in our 192 bedrooms
which include 10 luxury suites offering Edwardian-inspired
décor, combining classic interiors with a modern flourish to
inspire your imagination.
Cambridge, UK
T: +44 (0) 1223 60 62 66
E: reservations@universityarms.com
www.universityarms.com
Varsity Hotel
The Varsity Hotel is situated amidst the Cambridge Colleges
with views from many of the rooms across Kings, St Johns
and Trinity. It is also a stones throw from the main punting
area and has many great shops nearby.
Cambridge
Cambridge
T: 01223 306030
E: res@thevarsityhotel.co.uk
www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk
Sibton White Horse Inn
Wonderful unspoilt 16c freehouse, same owners for 15
years, just 20 minutes from the coast. Enjoy excellent food
within the warm and cosy inside or outside on the covered
heated terrace. Five adjacent rooms provide the comforts
expected from an AA 4 star gold rated inn.
Nr Saxmundham
T: 01728 660337
E: info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk
www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk
Suffolk

Caring for you and your loved ones
Quantum Care is a not for profit care provider that delivers a range of high quality
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New Admissions during (Covid-19) Coronavirus Pandemic
At Quantum Care, the health, safety and wellbeing of residents is our
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