Thorpeness Country Club is hosting an exhibition of archival photographs, documents and ephemera that chart the construction of this Arts and Crafts holiday village, its idiosyncratic events, and the lives of its inhabitants. The exhibition aims to capture the collective memories and experiences of the village, past and present.

10pm until 4pm

Saturday 23 June and Sunday 24 June 2012

The first event on 23 June is already sold out, but there’s still plenty more to get involved with:

Saturday 23 June, 7.30pm at St.Michaels’ Room:
John Ward and Mario Price – Folk Duo
Singer, songwriter and musician, John Ward has released 6 critically acclaimed albums. John is a fine guitarist and plays several other instruents, most notably the bodhran. Mario is an outstanding violinist and they make a popular and exciting acoustic duo. Their programme is a highly eclectic mix of original compositions, popular and traditional. Sometimes thought provoking, often humorous, always entertaining.
Tickets: £8

Sunday 24 June, 12.30pm at Recory Garden:
Jazz on the Lawn
Bring a rug orfolding chair, a picnic and a bottle of wine to enjoy this popular local band in a lovely garden adjoining The Mere. Programme includes music of New Orleans and the “classic” jazz of the 1920s and 30s; also embraces songs from the “swing” era to modern times. No chairs provided.
Tickets: £10

6-12 September: Annie Owen. Printmaker and painter influenced by travels to India and East Anglia landscapes. Annie is a member of the Sudbourne Printmakers.

13-19 September: Pam and Derek Pepper. Watercolours of the east coast.

20-26 September: Pandora Butterfield. Paintings inspired by the light and atmosphere of Suffolk skies, rivers and sea.

27 September-3 October: Future Perfect Group present ‘Tides In’. Works by Ruth Philio, Susan Barrett-Kelly, COlin Ainsworth, Barbara Dougan, Mary Halpin, Gena Ivanov, Sue Law, Caroline Munn. All MA Graduates from the Norwich University College of The Arts.

4-10 October: Rob Rutherford & friends. Mixed show. Paintings by Annie Rice. Watercolours by Mandy Walden. Photography by Christ Calver. Ceramics by Alice Garland.

11-17 October: Katherine Barney. Ceramics & silkscreen works and paintings.

18-24 October: Helen Bartholomew, Hilary Martholomew, Peter Dribble, Becky Munting and Jim Parsons. An eclectic mix of oil paintings, bespoke furniture and willow baskets.

25-31 October: Antonia Nelson. Landscape paintings in acrylic and oils.

1-7 November: Vanessa Burroughs. Solo show. Printmaker and member of the Norwich Printmakers. Showing during Aldeburgh Poetry Festival weekend.

8 November-5 December: The Wivenhoe Show. Mixed show. Various artists.

6-12 December: Pat Lumb, Michael Hughes, and Kay Nightingale.

13-24 December: Mixed Christmas Show. Various gallery artists.

26 July-1 August: ‘The Birds Are Abed And The Moths Are About’. Fantastic new show of works by Georgina Warne. Printmaking and montage, ceramics and printed fabrics. Hopefully Richard Mabey will be joining the gallery.

2-8 August: Jon Crane together with the Greenwich Printmakers.

9-15 August: The Aldeburgh Gallery in association with Foss Art Aldeburgh have curated a Mixed Exhibition, work includes: Ceramics, Modern Master and Limited Edition prints, also paintings by Hannah Hann, Nicholas Turner and bespoke furniture by the Norfolk Furniture Makers Guild including Derek Ibbert, David Padderson and others.

16-22 August: Vernon Rose. New works. Also showing works by Norfolk Furniture Makers Guild, ceramics by Pru Green and birds and fish by Stephen Henderson.

23-29 August: Sally-Ann Fitter. Vibrant still life’s in acrylic on canvas with a strong sense of design and compositions. Anthony Jones. St.Ives inspired images that retain a peace, quiet and dignity that certainly simple scenes possess.

30 August – 5 September: Delia Tournay Godfrey and Sarah Baddon Price. New Work – a complimentary and contrasting exhibition of paintings in acrylics and oils by two Suffolk based artists.

7-13 June: A Collector’s Show. ‘At Home and Abroad’. Work in various media by artists including Keith Grant, Mark Hearld, Ed Kluz, Emily Sutton, Jonathon Gibbs, Colin Wilkin & Alex Malcolmson. Also a collection of 20th and 21st century artists.

14-20 June: Sir Peter Blake and Modern Master Printmakers. The Aldeburgh Gallery in association with Foss Art Aldeburgh have curated an exhibition highlighting his work alongside fellow Modern Master Printmakers, artists include: Donals Hamilton Fraser RA, Sir Terry Frost RA, Bruce McLean and Barbara Rae CBE RA RSA RSW.

21-27 June: ‘New Departures’. Sculptures by Paul Richardson and paintings by Catherine Richardson explore a theme of travel and transition; lively new departures for both artists.

28 June – 4 July: Watercolour Artists. Moyra Byford – A Suffolk artist who has exhibited her watercolours, mixed media, original etchings and linocuts many times in Aldeburgh. Lenny Townsend – A self taught local artist specialising in Marine and Landscape, working in pure watercolour. Francesca Townsend – A local artist working in watercolour, various subjects including Landscape, Marine and Flowers.

5-11 July: Ronald Durban. East Anglia landscapes in oil.

12-18 July: Ian Russel. Recent works in watercolour of boats, harbours and seascapes.

19-25 July: Ruth Willis. Recent work, bold and vibrant abstracts in mixed media and oil.

Dawn Upshaw soprano

An artist with extraordinary natural warmth, Dawn Upshaw is fiercely
committed to the transforming communicative power of music.

Her Festival masterclasses, jointly led by pianist Kayo Iwama, will explore
the overlapping territories of 20thcentury American and French song, from
Gershwin and Copland to Fauré and Messiaen.

Masterclasses Peter Pears Recital Room, Snape 18, 19, 20, 22, 23 June, 2.30pm–5pm
Tickets £5 per session or Pass £20 (all sessions)

Recital Britten Studio, Snape 24 June, 1pm
Tickets £6

Book tickets

Friday 8th June 2pm – 4pm or Saturday 9th June 11am – 1pm.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to pipe the perfect buttercream swirl, master the art of creating stunning sugar flowers or grasp the technique for dipping cake pops, Sugarplum Cupcakes can show your how.

The Maverick Festival is a celebration of Americana and roots music from both
sides of the Atlantic, presenting music, comedy, dance, film & workshops and
featuring over forty different artists, across four stages indoors and out.

Set amongst the picturesque Victorian farm buildings of Easton Farm Park, the
site is nestled deep in the Suffolk countryside, yet only two hours from
London.

Running between Friday evening and Sunday afternoon, Maverick is set on a
restored Victorian farm which boasts a spacious, pastoral campsite and tipi village, and a recognised family-friendly atmosphere.

Festival goers can also look forward to film screenings, dance demonstrations and a variety of workshops.

Maverick Festival 2012 looks certain to enhance its reputation as a “friendly, well-organised, perfectly-sized festival where music is still the main attraction.” [Shades of Blue]

Tickets: £30-£69
Contact: Ipswich Tourist Office – Tel 01473 258070
Venue Address: Easton Farm Park, Easton, Woodbridge, IP13 0EQ

While the Aldeburgh Festival in June probes the depths of classical, contemporary and experimental music, the Snape Proms offers a more eclectic choice, featuring music from a myriad of traditions and genres, whilst also showcasing artists who have been nurtured through Aldeburgh Music’s own artist development and residency programmes.

The offerings include world music, folk, jazz, poetry readings, comedy, piano recitals, chamber music, symphony orchestras, and other un-classifiable but un-missable ensembles…

More details will be available from April 2012; general public booking opens in June.

Things to know
If you Prom you sit on the floor at the front of the Concert Hall
Great for the family or that spectacular night out
Well-known for its jazz, world and folk offerings

‘I don’t know what I was expecting when I walked into Snape Maltings Concert Hall but as I walked out I knew I had just witnessed one of the best evening’s entertainment I had ever seen’ Andrew Clarke – East Anglian Daily Times

Now a major force in the arts in North Suffolk, it attracts capacity crowds every October, who come for the chance to see top quality artists in small, intimate surroundings.

The HAF is a non profit making, Community Interest Company, relying on the generosity of many local businesses for the sponsorship essential to an event of this nature. Unlike many other Festivals, it receives no Arts Council, Lottery or other central Government help.

It works closely with local schools, promoting live music and staging an annual themed art exhibition at the Halesworth Gallery, featuring the best work our local educational establishments can offer.

2012 Festival 13th – 28th October

Full details will be announced in July.

Online & Postal booking opens August 1st.
Telephone & In-person booking from September 4th.

An exciting vocal experiment led by The Voice Project. Come along and absorb
the vocal happenings around you or even get involved yourself. This event is
sure to stretch your vocal cords. Fun for the whole family.

With the generous support of the Chapman Charitable Trust.

Aldeburgh Beach – between the North and South Lookout Towers at 12.30pm.

Free; no ticket required.

Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

The Glyndebourne Chorus
Purcell’s intoxicating combination of words and music alternates elements of the plot of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a variety of musical interludes. A magical brew has been concocted  by director Jonathan Kent in inventive collaboration with designer Paul  Brown.

The glass-fronted cases of a 17th-century cabinet of curiosities  disgorge the black-winged inhabitants of a fairy world who make it their  business to daze and confuse the poor humans who have accidentally  strayed into their kingdom. The mixture is quintessentially English –  one moment pastoral and elegiac, the next pure end-of-the-pier  slapstick.

Baroque specialist Laurence Cummings will lead the Orchestra of the  Age of Enlightenment from the harpsichord in this revival of a  production that enchanted audiences on its first outing in 2009. The Daily Telegraph called it ‘an absolute riot, but executed with taste and style’ while  The Observer said that ‘it is hard to imagine a more brilliantly  creative approach to the work’.

When it was first produced at the Dorset Gardens Theatre in London in 1692, The Fairy Queen featured stage effects that nearly bankrupted the theatre. There were  elaborate costumes, swans gliding over lakes, grottoes, woods and  12-foot high fountains. At Glyndebourne there will be dazzling singing  and dancing, flamboyant cross-dressing, a flying horse and a warren full  of rampant rabbits!

A revival of the 2009 Festival production

Sung in English with English supertitles

Co-Production with Théâtre National de l’Opéra-Comique

01728 452996

To book tickets, click here

Conductor Vladimir Jurowski
Director Melly Still
Set Designer Tom Pye
Costume Designer Dinah Collin
Lighting designer Paule Constable
Choreographer Maxine Doyle
Cast
Forester Sergei Leiferkus
Vixen (Bystrouška) Lucy Crowe
Fox Emma Bell
Parson / Badger Mischa Schelomianski
Harašta, a poacher William Dazeley
Forester’s Wife / Owl Jean Rigby
Schoolmaster/Mosquito Adrian Thompson
Pásek, Innkeeper Colin Judson
Innkeeper’s Wife Sarah Pring

This is perhaps the only opera to be inspired by a newspaper cartoon  strip. Every morning, Janáček would catch up with the latest exploits of  the mischievous vixen Bystrouška. He became such a dedicated follower  of her adventures that he responded with an outpouring of music, rich in  both humour and humanity, which evokes the wooded rolling hills of the  composer’s homeland of Moravia.

Janáček’s vision immeasurably deepens the comic strip’s depiction of  rural life. The Vixen encounters humans, of whom she learns to be  extremely wary. She ignores the well-meant advice of a mournful dog and does exactly what you might expect when she is confronted by a bunch of hysterical chickens. She cheekily evicts a badger from his home and  settles in herself. Eventually, she falls in love with a handsome fox and marries him.

All around her the life of the forest continues on its inevitable cycle. And the Gamekeeper, growing wiser as he grows older, sees it all.

Lucy Crowe will make her role debut as the Vixen, with Emma Bell in  the role of the Fox. Leading the forces of the London Philharmonic Orchestra will be Music Director Vladimir Jurowski and, returning to Glyndebourne for the first time since her haunting production of Dvořák’s Rusalka, will be director Melly Still.

A new production for the 2012 Festival.

Sung in Czech with English supertitles.

01728 452996

To book tickets, click here

Composer: Alexander Glazunov Choreography: Maestro Yuri Grigorovich
Music Director: Pavel Sorokin Set Designer: Simon Virsaladze
Lighting Designer: Mikhail Sokolov Assistant Choreographer: Natalia Bessmertnova 250 mins

Ballet in three Acts.
Libretto by Yuri Grigorovich after scenario by Lidia Pashkova, based on medieval knights’ legends.

To a lush exotic score by Alexander Glazunov , Raymonda tells the tale of a French noblewoman betrothed to a Crusader Knight , and her attempted abduction by a spurned Saracen rival for her affections.

Raymonda has said farewell to her betrothed Knight as he leaves on the crusades. Subsequently a saracen knight appears at a royal event and makes a terrifying declaration of love to her. Rejected, he attempts to abduct her , but is foiled by the return of her betrothed, who defeats his rival in single combat. The Ballet ends with the famous celebratory Hungarian dance in honour of the Hungarian King.

01728 452996

To book tickets, click here

Director: Richard Jones   Conductor: Robin Cicciati Cast: John Graham-Hall as Peter Grimes and Susan Gritton as Ellen Orford, with Christopher Purves and Felicity Palmer.

Opera in Three Acts, sung in English: 2 hours 55 minutes.
Live from the world’s most prestigious opera house comes a splendid new production of Benjamin Britten’s most popular opera, promising an evening of evocative music, psychological intensity and lyric beauty. Set in a fictional English seaside village closely resembling Aldeburgh, the composer once described his opera’s subject as ‘the struggle of the individual against the masses’. Known for his witty, up-to-date range of opera productions, British director Richard Jones’ Peter Grimes promises realism with a good dose of black humour, delivered by exceptional talents in 20th Century repertoire.

01728 452996

To book tickets, visit the Aldeburgh Cinema website

SNAP 2012 will include Glenn Brown, May Cornet, Matthew Darbyshire with Scott King, Brian Eno, Ryan Gander, Maggi Hambling, Mark Limbrick, Gavin Turk and Emily Richardson. Again the artists will penetrate the fabric of the festival’s home by presenting both new and existing works in the foyers, concert halls, derelict buildings and outdoor sites, the result being a chance to see art in a vigorous way outside a conventional gallery setting. SNAP 2012 promises to be a show as lively as the first and will incorporate painting, print, installation, sculpture and sound. The works will sit alongside permanent or long term sculptures outdoors at Snape including Barbara Hepworth’s Family of Man, Henry Moore’s Large Interior Form, Alison Wilding’s Migrant and Sarah Lucas’s Perceval.

For more information, click here

Fantasy and lots of imagination comes to the DanceHouse when Spanish dance company Aracaladanza present Clouds, a magical production for the entire family, co-commissioned by DanceEast and Sadler’s Wells and last seen at Snape Maltings to critical acclaim.

Inspired by the dream like paintings of Rene Magritte, a cast of six dancers create a magical world of moving objects, marionettes and dream-like imagery – wildly imaginative and packed full of energy.

Directed and choreographed by Enrique Cabrera.

Tickets: £12 / £6 (concessions)
Group Saver: £32 (4 tickets)
School Groups: Tickets are just £5, with one free teacher’s place with every 10 tickets!
Venue: Jerwood DanceHouse

To book tickets, click here

The legendary pianist gives an intensive series of masterclasses on chamber music by Schumann and Brahms, as part of an Aldeburgh Festival residency.

Core repertoire for any ensemble with piano, this is true chamber music, full of intimate and romantic lyricism as well as technical bravura.

He will also give a class for solo pianists, some of whom will also be working with Festival Artistic Director, Pierre-Laurent Aimard.

Masterclasses Peter Pears Recital Room, Snape.

Brahms & Schumann chamber music 9–10 June, 2pm–4.15pm and 11
June, 1pm–3pm

Solo piano repertoire, Britten Studio, Snape  14 June, 11am–1pm
Tickets £5 per session or
Pass £20 (all sessions)

Recital Britten Studio, Snape 14 June, 5pm Tickets £6

Please note there will be no masterclasses on 13 June

To book tickets, click here

Celebrating the Music of Michel Petrucciani.

The Tommaso Starace Quartet make its debut at the Club hot on the heels of sell-out concerts in the Blue Note in Milan and performances at Jazz Festivals all over Europe and the UK including The Brecon Jazz Festival.

This programme will be devoted to the jazz compositions of the world famous French jazz pianist Michel Petrucciani. He had to overcome severe physical problems and accordingly developed an extraordinary technique with an elegance or execution and made 32 albums during his short life.

The Quartet at the Club includes Tommaso

California Social Club
195 Foxhall Road
Ipswich
IP3 8LB

Advanced booking – Dave : 01473 231 552

Snape Maltings Concert Hall, 7.30pm

Aldeburgh Music Club Choir
Phoenix Singers
Prometheus Orchestra

Edmond Fivet – conductor
Linda Richardson – soprano
Carolyn Dobbin – mezzo soprano
James Edwards – tenor
James Oldfield – bass-baritone

Verdi Requiem

Verdi’s Requiem, with its pounding ‘Dies Irae’ chorus, is now a staple of
choral society repertoire, but the operatic style of the music remains as
challenging for the performers as it is thrilling for the audience.

The Messa da Requiem is a musical setting of the Roman Catholic funeral mass,
for four soloists, double choir and orchestra. Verdi composed it in memory of
the Italian poet and novelist Alessandro Manzoni, an Italian poet and novelist
much admired by Verdi. It was first performed in San Marco in Milan on 22 May
1874, followed by a performance three days later at La Scala, Milan.

The Opéra-Comique in Paris mounted seven performance but the work was judged
‘too Catholic’ to fill London’s Royal Albert Hall. Modern audiences have no such
scruples and the Requiem is invariably a major attraction in any concert
schedule.

Tickets £35, £25, £20, £17.50. Students half price.

For more information, visit the website

Royal icing is set for a huge revival, as John Dean from the New Round House, Saxmundham will explain.

At the end of this wonderful workshop you will have created a beautiful iced sampler using all the basic skills learnt and used during the day.The day will give you the opportunity to understand:

1. How to make royal icing
2. The effective use and types of colour
3. Making paper bags and using a range of icing nozzles
4. Basic piping skills: dots, snail trail, scrolls, simple lettering and runout, piped flower blossoms

This one day beginners course at £50 per person (including all equiptment, ingredients and afternoon cream tea) is a real Royal Jubilee treat  to kick-start a new hobby!

Snape Maltings,
Near Aldeburgh
Suffolk
IP17 1SR
01728 688 303
info@snapemaltings.co.uk

Available on 12 May or 7 July 2012 with Suzanne Campbell. £70 course fee including all glass, tools and kiln firing.

As a qualified jeweller with over twenty years teaching experience, Suzanne will guide you through a step by step programme showing you how to create your own unique pieces of fused glass jewellery. By the end of the day you will have a number of thoughtfully designed pieces ready for firing in Suzanne’s kiln. Your fused glass cabochons can easily be made into stylish pendants, beautiful beads, brooches, earrings or cufflinks.

This class is designed to be a fun and creative day as well as a stepping stone to an exciting new hobby. The emphasis is on making lovely things and developing your own unique style.

This beginners one day course is suitable for those with no previous artistic knowledge.

Numbers are limited to ten to allow for individual tuition.

A selection of jewellery findings (necklace chains, earwires, bails etc) will be available for purchase on the day from Suzanne. If you require findings please budget approximately £20.

Your fired glass may be collected from Snape Maltings or sent to you (please pre-pay P+P) two weeks after your course.

Bookings now being taken. Telephone 01728 688303

As you can imagine, the building of this magnificent structure was a complicated and lengthy process, fraught with difficulties. Work started on The Rotunda in 1795, it was completed in 1829.  The Rotunda has much to intrigue and amaze; curved floors and corridors and a library with only two walls.  The Rotunda was built to house a vast collection of art work and includes  some magnificent family portraits by Gainsborough and old masters by Titian and Velasquez.

A spring walk is a real delight.  There are swathes of old fashioned daffodils lining the Lady Geradine Walk and throughout the informal gardens to the front of the house.

There are some great trails and walks around the park from the Albana walk a 2 mile stroll, a family cycle route of 4 miles to a grand tour of 7 miles, covering Ice House Hill, the River Linnet, ancient woodland, the Obelisk, Fairy Lake and the main drive.

Explore Ickworth’s 1800 acres of conservation woodland and park created in part by Capability Brown, the park is an unspoilt habitat to plants, animals and birds as well as to ancient trees. With rain on the way we followed the path down to the Family Church passing the pond on our way. Mid April and only the willows were in bud. The clouds were gathering but the light was fabulous, no wonder Suffolk is such an attraction to artists. The path goes down to the family church, now being renovated with lottery funding after which it bears right and continues downhill to the bottom of the deer park.

Do take time to explore the vegetable garden and the vineyard on your left. You can buy Ickworth’s wines in the West Wing. Look back over the canel towards the first Earl’s summer house with the family church and Rotunda in the background – a wonderful site.

We followed the path past ancient trees and over the wooden bridge – we suspect this bridge was once stone? Even with rain threatening the views are stunning and then we heard the cuckoo, the first this year (22 April 2012).   Once over the bridge we made our way back up the hill, and back towards Parson’s Pond.

We were now on the family cycle route – ideal for youngsters and adults alike.  Away from cars this 4 mile route takes in a series of terrains and gradients – yes we do have some hills in Suffolk and the views are absolutely stunning.

If you fancy some exercise then there are few more beautiful places to enjoy it than Ickworth.

Now I don’t know if you’re familiar with the series – Mr Edmondson travels up and down the country in a smart white Mini Cooper, towing behind him a most groovy little caravan, which I have since learned is the ‘classic teardrop’ model from The English Caravan Company.  Seemingly, in the back of this caravan, he has everything one might need to rustle up a delicious gas-stove-cooked meal (bar the crucial local ingredients, which of course he gathers on his travels).

Once Mr Edmondson reaches his destination, he joins in with some sort of local craft such as clog-making, or lovespoon-carving (personal favourite; rockmaking in Blackpool – who knew?!), has some local (and preferably traditional) entertainment, and then, umm, “cooks” (although it was all a bit “Here’s one I (or, if I’m being perfectly honest, my colleague) made earlier).  I don’t know what the local craft was for the Aldeburgh bit (though I did enjoy the singing, courtesy of a few select (or perhaps simply ‘available’) members of the Aldeburgh Music Club) so we’ll all have to tune in to find out!

Anyway, on receiving this exciting news, I had abandoned my post here on the High Street and headed off to hang around in a suspicious manner outside Moot Hall, trying to not look tragic, and failing dismally. If I ever wondered how I’d scrub up as a paparazzo (that should probably be paparazza for a girl, right?) I now know.  I’d be rubbish at it.  Too easily embarrassed at the thought of looking interested in a celebrity. But I got a few snaps. I’m not anticipating selling them to any redtop for vast sums.

Fortunately we had a break in the aggressively Aprilly April showers and the sun shone for the duration, or at least as long as I lasted.  How many takes?!  Those poor singers must have been getting sore throats!

Rumour has it the episode will be aired shortly before Christmas… which we all know will be here before we know it.  Roll on Summer.

The interior of this beautiful old ‘pub’ is as enchanting as the outside, with massive oak beams, three fireplaces and of course, loads of brass!

On walking through the door you take a trip back in time. Far from being a cold old building, this wonderful pub has a warmth and ambience that immediately puts you at ease.

Throughout the building there are artefacts and pictures from the pubs long history which are to be explored and appreciated at your leisure.

A good place to relax, drink, dine and to meet some interesting locals! We recommend you visit The Angel.

Tel 01394 382679

Its charming interior of open fires, twisting oak beams and sloping ceilings bear witness to the centuries past. The warm and friendly atmosphere is enhanced by a superb range of eight cask ales, fine traditional pub food and excellent wines.

Owner and chef Vernon Blackmore has created a really good and affordable menu. Need to book most days of the week to get a table!

01394 382649

Jumpin’ Jubilee Vintage Market- Sunday 3rd June

July Farmers’ Market-7th July, 9.30am-1pm

August Farmers’ Market-4th August, 9.30am-1pm

Great British Vintage Market-Sunday 5th August

August Farmers’ Market-18th August, 9.30am-1pm

September Farmers’ Market-1st September, 9.30am-1pm

Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival - September 29-September 30

November Farmers’ Market – 3rd November 9.30am-1pm

Vintage Craft Market – 25th November

December Farmers’ Market – 1st December 9.30am-1pm

Christmas Farmers’ Market – 22nd December

The annual Regatta and Riverside Fair returns with a whole range of activities on the river and stalls and entertainment along the entire riverside walk.

The fun-packed day starts at noon and finishes around 5pm with the famous Woodbridge and District Lions Club Duck Dive in the model yacht pond. Followed by Songs of Praise with Woodbridge Churches Together at the bandstand.

On the river there will be yacht, dingy, rowing and tender racing, raft building and racing and river boat trips. On land there will be stalls, children’s activities including face-painting and musical entertainment.

Italian Food Market - 27th August
Location- Budgens Car Park, Hamblin Road, Woodbridge, IP12 1BG
The Italian Food Market, ‘Italia in Piazza’, returns to Woodbridge for the 4th successive year. This wonderful attraction, which travels all over the country each weekend, will bring true Italian flavours.
The authentic produce will include many types of cheeses, cured meats and olives.

Autumn – Saturday 8th September. Vintage and Modern.

Winter - Saturday 8th December. Vintage and Modern.

Come along to help us celebrate this fantastic and spectacular occasion, Aldeburgh will be the best place to be to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. And it’s completely free!

From 6.30pm on Sunday 3rd June 2012 we will have a music fest to please all ears whilst raising funds for three fantastic worthy charities. We’ve got a heap of acts to entertain you; the Stagecoach Company from Ipswich will start the event, followed by Rachel King on Electric Violin/Sax/Flute, and the Festival Orchestra will be performing a very special selection. Stephanie Coombs, a young and very talented Opera Singer will also be performing.

The evening then gets on the way with the most spectacular “Night of the Proms” set from the live 20 piece orchestra which will conclude with a spectacular firework finale.

Fun for all the family including Face-painting and of course lots of flag waving. A beer tent is kindly being provided by the White Lion Hotel who will be producing delicious Royal Burgers.

On Aldeburgh seafront, opposite the White Lion Hotel

Proms by the sea

KATE FOLEY  leads a workshop for Suffolk Poetry Society ‘Tree- Ring Time Clock-Time’. It is time to stand back and consider a deeper context for our writing. What does the slow, tree-ring growth of personal history and history in its wider sense mean to us as we live our lives in clock-time?

A workshop for 10 poets on Saturday May 26th  from 11am to 4pm.
Cost £35, lunch included, at Victoria House, Lambseth Street, Eye, IP23 7AQ. Contact Anne Boileau on 01376 563714 for details.

The Suffolk Poetry Society has members across the breadth of Suffolk and beyond.  It was formed as The Suffolk Poetry Club a few years before 1930 and prospered quietly until the Second World War.  In 1952 two members decided to revive the organisation, and it became the Suffolk Poetry Society.

As has been noted by a former SPS Chairman, “The first 50 years were glorious” but after the Millennium the Society had to redefine itself, and struggled for a while until new enthusiasts re-awakened its activities; a development that still continues.

Contact Anne Boileau, telephone 01376 563714 or email chairman@suffolkpoetrysociety.org

Thinking of introducing the children to life in the country?  Look no further.

The Old Barn at Semer is a haven for youngsters as well as adults. The whole family will love the heated outdoor swimming pool,  just outside the barn you can pop in for a shower and change of clothes even on a chilly day.

The farm was originally a stud and the area around the horse boxes makes a great space for tricycles and outdoor games – there are loads of sit on toys for toddlers to enjoy and older children can ride their bikes well away from traffic.

Whilst little ones are not always confident when it comes to animals, we are pretty confident they will adore the two little ponies.  They are very friendly and are very happy to be fed a handful of grass.  Children will also enjoy feeding the chickens and geese.  If you want them to burn off their excess energy wander down to the climbing fort – its enormous and it doesn’t matter if you are 4 or 14 – you will love it.

The farm is surrounded by acres of beautiful meadows in which there is a superb fishing lake – older children (and their parents) are welcome to try a spot of fishing, but be warned the water is deep.  Wander further across the fields and there are some delightful walks across the farm to the River Brett, Semer’s ancient woods and the delightful little village of Kersey – all are within a short walk.

A new play by Nick Dear based on the novel by Mary Shelley.

Oscar-winner  Danny Boyle (127 Hours, Slumdog Millionaire) returned to the theatre to  direct this visionary production with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny  Lee Miller. It will return to cinemas worldwide from June for a limited  season of encore screenings.

Childlike in his innocence  but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out  into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty  wherever he goes, the friendless Creature, increasingly desperate and  vengeful, determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying  deal.

Urgent concerns of scientific responsibility, parental  neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil are  embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic gothic  tale.

Performance Running Time: Approximately 2 hours (no interval).

Aldeburgh Cinema

01728 452996

51 High Street, Aldeburgh, Suffolk   IP15 5AU

Aldeburgh Jubilee Music Hall

14th April 2012, 2pm

£4.50

In The Belly of the Horse is an opera for children aged 6 to 12 and their families, performed by professional singers and players from English Touring Opera.

Through acting, singing, music, dance and puppetry, it tells the fantastic story that leads the Greeks to build the Trojan horse.

The show last about an hour and a quarter and is a perfect introduction to opera for young people. Tickets cost just £4.50 (both adults and children) and are available by calling the Aldeburgh Music box office on 01728 687110 or at www.aldeburgh.co.uk

A typical day starts at 2pm with the company of 5 actors and our stage manager Penny gathering around the glorious Eastern Angles van.

THE Eastern Angles Van!

Pen will already have been ‘in’ for a couple of hours fixing props, washing and ironing costumes and checking in with one of our many promoters – village volunteers who undertake to host and promote the show.

Most of the venues are around an hour or so drive from base so at around 3pm the company will arrive at the venue.

That’s around two hours work speeded up somewhat! Then comes the process of prop setting, light focusing, checking and final preparations. Working as an actor with Eastern Angles is so much more than getting into costume and speaking your lines!

By 6.30pm everything should be set and ready so the cast break for an hour.

Some five and a half hours after the cast originally gathered in Ipswich the show begins. If you haven’t heard it before heres a little podcast to give you a flavour of the show

By ten past ten the show is done and the whole process starts in reverse.

Then – after tackling the great rubix cube of getting everything back into the van–

A Perfectly Packed Van – photo by Bishany

the company wave good bye and headback to base. Anticipated arrival time back at base in Ipswich circa half midnight.

We’re now 15 shows into a 75 date So all this is going to be repeated for another 60 shows in nearly 40 more venues between now and May 20th! Undoubtedly results in some tales from the road – here is Bishanyia’s take.

For details of all forthcoming performances see here.

The first food and drink festival of its kind to be held at Henham Park near Southwold, this will be a great day out for the whole family in the lovely setting of the historic walled garden.

Over the two days of the Festival, our aim is to celebrate and publicise the amazing variety of food and drink available in East Anglia.  Local, regional and national firms will exhibit and there will be a special children’s activity area.  Cookery demonstrations and talks will be held throughout both days and those purchasing food will be able to store their shopping in a chilled store. Day entry is £6 for adults and £3 for  children aged 12 – 16, under 12s are Free

For more details and to buy tickets please visit www.flavoursof2012.co.uk.

Dame Felicity Lott is one of Britain’s best-loved sopranos. In opera, her portrayals of the Strauss and Mozart roles in particular have to critical and popular acclaim worldwide. Her concert engagements take her to the major orchestras, working with Rattle, Haitink, Mehta, Previn, Masur, Welser-Möst, Sawallisch and Sir Andrew Davis.

She was made a CBE in the 1990 New Year Honours and, in 1996, was created a Dame Commander of the British Empire. In February 2003 she was awarded the title of Bayerische Kammersängerin. Most recently she was made Doctor Honoris Causa of the University Paris Sorbonne.

It is with great pride that the Ipswich Orchestral Society welcomes Dame Felicity Lott to the Ipswich Corn Exchange.

Sibelius-Tone Poem, En Saga

Richard Strauss-Songs with Orchestra, inlcuding Morgen, Wiegenlied

Nielson-Symphony No 4, The inextinguishable

Tickets
Balcony £14 (all one price)
Floor £12 (adults) £10 (concessions) £7 (under 18)

Tickets are available from

Ipswich Tourist Information Centre
St Stephen’s Church
St Stephen’s Lane
Ipswich
Suffolk IP1 1DP
Telephone: 01473 258070
Opening Hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm on Mondays to Saturdays

Ipswich Entertainments Advance Box Office
3 St Helens Street (inside the Regent Theatre)
Ipswich
Suffolk IP4 1HE
Telephone: 01473 433100
Opening Hours: 9.30 am to 5.30 pm on Mondays to Saturdays.

On-Line
Book your tickets on-line from the Ipswich Corn Exchange web site.

Corn Exchange:
King Street, Ipswich IP1 1DH

It is with great pleasure that the Ipswich Orchestral Society welcomes back Jennifer Pike to the Corn Exchange to perform one of the greatest favourites of the Violin repertoire, Vaughan Williams’ Lark Ascending.

Jennifer Pike’s achievements are impressive: BBC Young Musician of the Year 2002, BBC Proms debut at the age of 15, BBC Young Generation Artist, and a dazzling sequence of performances with renowned orchestras from all around the world has marked a remarkable development of a very special talent.

The summer concert this year will include performances of a programme of spectacular contrasts, combining music from the end of the British Empire with works from two of the leading American composers of the 20th Century.

Gershwin-Cuban Overture

Bernstein-Symphonic Dances from West Side Story

Vaughan Williams -Lark Ascending     

Elgar-Enigma Variations  

Tickets:
Balcony – £14 (all one price)
Floor – £12 (adults), £10 (concessions), £7 (under 18)

Tickets are available from

Ipswich Tourist Information Centre
St Stephen’s Church
St Stephen’s Lane
Ipswich
Suffolk IP1 1DP
Telephone: 01473 258070
Opening Hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm on Mondays to Saturdays

Ipswich Entertainments Advance Box Office
3 St Helens Street (inside the Regent Theatre)
Ipswich
Suffolk IP4 1HE
Telephone: 01473 433100
Opening Hours: 9.30 am to 5.30 pm on Mondays to Saturdays.

On-Line
Book tickets on-line from the Ipswich Corn Exchange.

Corn Exchange:
King Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1DH

26 May – 4 June 2012
11.00am – 5pm
BLACKTHORPE BARN, ROUGHAM, BURY ST EDMUNDS IP30 9HZ

Work of over 100 Suffolk artists, exhibits range from water colours and oil paintings, sculptures, wood carvings, drawings and prints, photography and jewellery, ceramics and glassware, through to textiles and mixed media.

Independent judges will select the best exhibit and a prize will be presented to the winner. The exhibition will be open from Saturday 26 May – Monday 4 June the exhibition will be open daily to the general public between 11.00am and 5pm.

Visitors can collect a free copy of the SOS full colour pocket directory which gives full details of each member and their particular type of work.  View the exhibits, identifying and highlighting those that particularly attract or inspire you.  Then mark out those artists you would like to visit during June when they will open their studios. Here is your chance to see where they get their ideas from and to ask them about their creations. And if you wish, you can also pick up an original piece of artwork to treasure.  Full details of times when individual studios will be open along with their locations and contact details appear in the SOS Directory.

Blackthorpe Barn has ample free parking, a café and disabled access.

Aldeburgh World Orchestra
Sir Mark Elder conductor

Sunday 22 July 2012

Britten Sinfonia da Requiem
Stravinsky The Rite of Spring

One of the most famous seismic shocks in musical history – the arrival of Stravinsky’s elemental, shattering ballet score for Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes – caused a riot on its first performance.

Controversy surrounded the Sinfonia da Requiem before a note had been even played. The 26 year old Britten had been commissioned by the Japanese Government for a piece to celebrate the 2600th anniversary of the Japanese Empire.

What they got was a heartfelt and angry response to the tragedy and violence of war in which the influence of both Stravinsky and Mahler are absorbed into an entirely new musical voice.

Click here to book tickets online

Friday 20 July 2012

Mahler Adagio from Symphony No.10
Shostakovich Symphony No.5

The unique international DNA of the Aldeburgh World Orchestra is brought to bear on two masterpieces with ambitions of universal human identification.

Mahler’s 10th symphony, left unfinished at his death, contains in its one completed movement a searing expression of resigned personal grief.

Pre-performance event There will be a workshop of a new BBC Commission by Charlotte Bray. More details available nearer the time.
Snape 6pm. Admission free, but please book.

The photographs in his latest exhibition – Relics of the Cold War in Suffolk -  at the Concert Hall Gallery, are  particularly poignant; combining the  desolate landscapes of the Suffolk coast, in particular Orford Ness with the accoutrements of war.

The Suffolk coast, in particular Orford Ness and Bawdsey were of vital importance during both world wars and the cold war as a centre of radar development and a secret installation for the testing of weapons.

‘I have always found the lines, texture and colour of the natural landscape a compelling subject to photograph. Although I have travelled from Iceland to New Zealand some of the most remarkable images I have photographed are on Orford Ness, where the palimpsest of military history overwritten by the natural world is truly remarkable.’ David Watson

The exhibition can be viewed before and after Concert Hall performances, and by appointment through Aldeburgh Music’s reception on 01728 687 100.

Profits from the sale of photographs will be split between Aldeburgh Music and the National Trust.

Roger Grosvenor, Group General Manager – Trade and Andrew Dawes attended from the East of England Co-operative Society and Roger said of their supporting role as headline sponsors: “The East of England Co-operative Society is at the heart of communities across the region and we are proud to be the headline sponsor of this fantastic event supporting the brilliant work the ITFC Charitable Trust.”

Steve Britt, MD of Anchor Storage commented: “I’ve worked with Terry at Suffolk New College as we are both Fellows; therefore I already have an interest in young peoples’
education. As a company we are celebrating 25 years in business this year and supporting the Trust’s Ball next month seemed a very worthwhile way to mark our anniversary whilst helping a very good cause.”

Nick and Chloe Grimwood from Green Energy concluded: “As a company we are passionate about making a difference within our community and are honoured to be supporting this worthy charitable event.”

More sponsors are still needed for this high profile event, to be held at Portman Road in their prestigious Bobby Robson Suite on Friday 9^th March.

CEO for the Trust, Terry Baxter was also on hand to welcome the sponsors said: “Our sponsors are vital as we rely totally on donations. Their money will go to help young people in Suffolk – in the last 10 years we’ve been able to support over 100,000 individuals and we’d like to continue that success for many years to come. It’s vital that we get the support from local businesses to help young people in our County.”

The event is being organised by Adam Clark of Eventuoso who was also at the ground along with the company’s Marketing and Business Development Manager, Deborah Wildridge. Tickets have been in high demand already with tables of ten available to book at either £750 per table or £80 per head for individuals wishing to attend.

Other businesses who wish to raise their profile by becoming a sponsor of the Trust’s Annual Ball whilst helping a very worthwhile charity here in the County can pledge their
support by either becoming a sponsor or by donating prizes for the charity auction by calling Eventuoso on 0845 450 7495 or emailing them info@eventuoso.com. For tickets to this highlight in the social calendar for Suffolk, call Francesa on 01473 705209.

The charity’s mission is, through football, to inspire, motivate and improve the education
and life chances of young people in Suffolk who are in need.

The ITFC Charitable Trust relies completely on the generosity of others to survive. In the last 12 months alone it has delivered over 60,000 education and sports coaching sessions to the Suffolk’s young people. In doing so, the Trust is helping to change lives for the better.

For more information about this year’s Charity Ball, the ITFC Trust and news of the many ways it works with the communities in and around Suffolk take a look at their website
http://www.itfccharitabletrust.org.uk/

Worlingham Hall is a spectacularly beautiful and elegant Grade I listed Georgian house situated in fine mature parkland surrounded on all sides by mature woodland providing absolute privacy and seclusion and unsurpassed facilities and activities including a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, trout lake, stabling for the horses, heated kennels for the dogs. You can enjoy a day’s clay shooting or pheasant shooting by arrangement.

Exciting contemporary features such as the four sided log burning stove sit comfortably with a relaxing collection of antique and contemporary furniture. Intimate reclining spaces lie within areas equally suitable for large scale entertainment. The galley kitchen has the wow factor we all seek and is well equipped and great to cook in, open and hidden at the same time.

There is a golf course and a caravan site as well as the wonderful river Blyth which sluices into the North Sea. A ferry will take you across the river to the small and slightly exclusive village of Walberswick.  All in all a great destination for all the family.

Click here to view a selection of self catering cottages in and around Southwold

The Port of Lowestoft

In the early 19th century Lowestoft saw a boost in trade.  Not all was well in Great Yarmouth and theft there compounded by inflated harbour fees and the building of a ‘New Cut’ from the river Waveney to the river Yare meant that Norwich merchants preferred to buy from Lowestoft rather than Great Yarmouth. Then the lock gates at Mutford failed, and trade fell off.

1831 – The harbour at Lowestoft opens

In 1847 Sir Moreton Peto, often regarded as ‘the father of modern Lowestoft’, purchased the harbour at Lowestoft and built a railway line to the town, thus opening the whole of England as a market for the town’s fresh fish. A quay with the railway siding was built, and then an outer harbour, with a north pier for the fish markets and a south pier for the tourists. The foresight of Sir Moreton Peto ensured the fishing industry of Lowestoft for over a century.

Exports of herring (known locally as the ‘silver darling’) grew and grew and workers were brought in from all over the country to assist in handling the catch, including Scots fisher-girls who lodged in houses in the High Street and went down the ‘scores’ – ancient narrow thoroughfares still to be seen today -to gut herring.

Lowestoft was now famous for its herring drifters fishing the North Sea and also for the trawlers which ventured further in search of cod, haddock and skate. Sailing craft gave way to steam powered vessels and the harbour was filled with tugs and smaller size merchant vessels.

Industries ashore supported the fishing industry and local producers made clothing and foodstuffs for the boats, salt for the curing of herring and ice for the trawlers, all of which were traded in the town. Around the market the fish merchants had their offices, buying the catches and arranging onward shipment, by rail to parts of Britain and by sea to foreign markets.

With all this wealth came other improvements to the town and Lowestoft became famous for its “hanging gardens” and fine terraced gardens that descended from the merchants houses to the base of the cliffs.

1878 Joseph Conrad landed at Lowestoft

This was Conrad’s first visit to England. He had joined the French Merchant Marine some four years earlier to avoid conscription but had got himself into financial difficulties.  In Lowestoft he joined the Lowestoft fishing fleet before travelling the world again.  He was a sailor for around 15 years and used those he met as as figures in his future novels.

1913 – Benjamin Britten born in Lowestoft

Lowestoft and indeed Suffolk’s most famous son, Benjamin Britten was born at 21 Kirkley Cliff Road, Lowestoft on November 22nd, 1913.  His attic bedroom overlooked the sea and the pull of the waves on the beach would have been a constant background sound in his early years.

Benjamin Britten was the youngest of four children; his father, Robert Britten, was a dentist who built up a substantial practice from the house.  His mother, Edith, was a talented amateur musician who gave Britten his first lessons in piano and notation in the drawing room of the house. It was quickly established that Benjamin Britten was a gifted musician and by the age of five he was already making his first attempts at composition. He had completed The Simply Symphony by the time he was 12.  He started piano lessons with a teacher from his pre-prep school when he was 7, and viola lessons with Audrey Alston at the age of 10.

After prep school Britten became a pupil at Gresham’s School in Holt, North Norfolk, boarding at Farfield House between 1928 and 1930.  From there he went to the Royal College of Music in London.

Lowestoft remained his home base until he started work with the GPO Film Unit in London in 1935.

World War I and World War II in Lowestoft
Lowestoft’s location, the most easterly point of the British Isles, made it an important base during both world wars.  Lowestoft was bombarded by German ships in April 1916 as the German fleet sought to draw the British fleet south from its base at Scapa Flow.

During the Second World War, Lowestoft had five naval establishments, with 200 officers and 7,000 ratings based there. Mine-sweeping, motor torpedo boat patrol and training at Europa, the base on the North Denes, were amongst the activities. The shores of Lake Lothing, where wooden steam drifters had once been built, saw motor minesweepers and power launches under construction.

Lowestoft in the last 50 years

The big fishing fleets are now gone and whilst there are still a few trawlers tied up at the harbour, the majority of fishing is inshore or from the beach. However Lowestoft still attracts plenty of tourists, who can enjoy its history by walking in the centre and along the beaches – taking care not to miss out on the ‘scores’ the deep little lanes linking town and shore – and visiting its fascinating museums .

Africa Alive is a great day out for the whole family. See the cheetahs that were born in August 2011

By 1086 Lowestoft was known as Lothu Wistoft and described as an agricultural village of just 20 families. It was a sub-manor of Lothingland, under the manor of Gorleston. At that time there was no access to the sea from what are now Lake Lothing and Oulton Broad. All fishing was from the beach.

1349 – The Great Plague

The most easterly point in England, Lowestoft was still very isolated but fishing was a growing industry. Largely in the control of neighbouring Great Yarmouth the industry still brought prosperity to Lowestoft and the population grew. But in 1349 disaster struck in the form of a plague which wiped out around nine tenths of the population.

The Medieval Period

As the population recovered from the plague beach fishing grew, and wills and inventories of the 15th and 16th century illustrate that the economy and the physical location of the village shifted to make the most of the rich pickings from the sea. Wealthy merchants lived on the cliff tops, whilst the functional support industry for the fishing grew on the wide open areas of the beach, known as the Denes.

There had always been rivalry between Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth but this came to a head during the Civil Wars when the two settlements chose opposite sides; Lowestoft supporting King Charles I.  In 1643 Cromwell won a skirmish outside Lowestoft, celebrating with a stay at The Swan Inn after the battle.

1662 – Lowestoft Witches

This was a period of terrible witch hunts throughout the land. Matthew Hopkins, The Witch Finder General, was scouring north Essex and Suffolk for witches; in Lowestoft a local herring merchant, Samuel Pacey, denounced two elderly widows, Rose Cullender and Amy Denny. There was little evidence to support his claims but the two were hanged anyway at Bury St Edmunds on 10 March 1662.

1665 – The Battle of Lowestoft

There were a number of skirmishes along the Suffolk Coast including the Battle of Sole Bay and the Battle of Lowestoft, which took place roughly 40 miles off the coast of Lowestoft – within earshot of the town, if out of sight. On Saturday June 3 1665 James Duke of York (the future James II) defeated the Dutch fleet commanded by Admiral Jacob van Wassenaer, capturing or sinking some 20 ships, and killing around 6000 men.  The English fleet was far superior in numbers and lost between 600 and 700 men.

1757 – Lowestoft Pottery

Hewlin Luson founded the Lowestoft Pottery.  His wares were made from fine white clay, designed for the artisan market.  Interestingly one of his lines was porcelain trinkets for visitors – Lowestoft had become a fashionable seaside town, not quite so grand as Scarborough and Brighton but not far off.

Magnificent Grade 11 listed Victorian townhouse with unobscured sea views. Situated in a prime position on Lowestoft sea front.

The Birthplace of the composer Benjamin Britten and his family home for 21 years, it was purchased by the Britten family in 1913. Fully renovated to a high standard in 2007, Britten House has been awarded a 5 star rating from Visit Britain and has a silver accolade.

The riverside has a working tide mill, the fantastic Waterfront Cafe, the Riverside restaurant and cinema and a stunning riverside walk. Many super pubs provide delightful resting points for the many walks that can be done throughout the town.

Click here to view a selection of self catering cottages in and around Woodbridge

The town retains a quintessential Englishness personified by the presence of two extremely popular fish and chip shops, several seaside hotels and, recently, a profusion of boutique clothes shops.

Click here to view a selection of self catering cottages in and around Aldeburgh

The town is still untouched by the litter of modern signage and retains an atmosphere of blissful continuity, with traditional pubs and eateries, a ‘boulangerie’ and a fascinating smokehouse – yummy!

Click here to view a selection of self catering cottages in and around Orford

Divided between (6) Front Grounds Rooms (10) Main Hotel Rooms…..The individually designed bedrooms and En-Suites are Furnished to a high standard to make every guest’s stay pleasant and relaxing.

Free Wi- fi, all rooms have digital multi channel Televisions.

A well-stocked bar with a good selection of wines, spirits and real ale. A restaurant which offers restaurant quality food, with menus that change on a regular basis, freshly cooked to order.

Click here to book

Long Melford was a busy village in Tudor times, and still is, attracting visitors and holiday makers from all over the UK, and has the longest high street in East Anglia.

Click here to book

The hotel’s restaurant is located within an attractive 18th century thatched barn overlooking the gardens, where you can enjoy imaginative and freshly prepared dishes made with fine, local produce.

Rooms are individually designed, and conveniently located for the sights of Oulton Broad. The hotel has easy and direct access to the main road.

Click here to book

The Shoreline Restaurant is a real treat to dine in. The high standard of service, beautiful ocean views and appetizing food all contributed to the wonderful experience of enjoying dinner here.

There are 2 bars, both overlooking the seafront. Savour a pint of real ale or something from the delectable bar menu, while enjoying a pleasant evening at the bar.

In fine weather, guests can sit out on the terrace with their drinks, watching the comings and goings of the town while basking in the seaside sunshine.

Click here to book

Click here to book

Orford. – There has been a hostelry on the site of The Crown and Castle for eight centuries.The original inn was, apparently, built into the walls of the 12th century Orford Castle but is now separated from it by a little lane.

Co-owned by Ruth Watson, David Watson and Tim Sunderland, the Crown and Castle has an excellent bistro, the Trinity, which serves really good, unpretentious food. Although officially classed as an hotel, The Crown and Castle has the feel of a restaurant with rooms, the public space being very limited.

The service is efficient and unstuffy; the restaurant and bar have a truly unstressed and relaxing atmosphere, partly we suspect because they discourage group bookings and large wedding parties.  You can sit round one of the comfortable tables in the bar and have a private chat or converse with other holidaymakers and locals – it really is that friendly. The Crown and Castle is open all year round for accommodation, lunch and dinner.

The Crown and Castle, Orford, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 2LJ Tel: 01394 450205

Stay in Orford

The unique polygonal tower keep of Orford Castle, stands beside the pretty town and former port which Henry II also developed here in Orford.  The castle is remarkably intact allowing visitors to explore from the basement, through the lower and upper halls to the roof where there are magnificent panoramic views seaward to Orford Ness. Around the rooms is a maze of passages leading to the chapel, kitchen and other chambers in the turrets.

Orford Castle was built by Henry II finot only to display his wealth and power but to defend against mercenaries from the Continent who came to assist his enemies, the barons of Suffolk and Norfolk.

Opening Times

Orford Castle, Orford, Suffolk IP12 2ND 01394 450472

Stay in Orford

The Seckford Theatre reflects the commitment of both Woodbridge School and the Seckford Foundation to benefit all in the local area. The Theatre has welcomed local groups such as the Deben Players, The Company of Four and The Eastern Angles, alongside national companies such as The Royal Ballet.

The theatre is well worth a visit; there are many varied and equally enjoyable performances available which make exploring the beautiful town of Woodbridge even more pleasurable.

Seckford Theatre, Burkitt Road,
Woodbridge, IP12 4JH

The Seckford Theatre Box Office opening hours are between 3-5.30pm Monday through to Friday, term time only.

Ticket applications are best made by emailing (boxoffice@woodbridge.suffolk.sch.uk) however an answer phone is in place to take messages at anytime via 01394 615015. When making an application for tickets please would all customers state their name, first line of address (or full address if emailing), postcode and ticket requirements. The Box Office Administrator will then return emails or calls in the order that they have been received.

Stay in Woodbridge

The Upper Deck’s delicious selection of fresh fish and other seasonal dishes makes it a must visit on any trip to Aldeburgh and the Suffolk Coast. Cooked to order and always piping hot, The Upper Deck is the perfect way to enjoy our legendary fish and chips whatever the weather with the additional choice of hot and cold desserts.

Open for lunch and dinner, find the door near the Golden Galleon and head on up. You won’t be disappointed.

Opening hours:

Sunday
Open 12 – 6 pm
Mon
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Tuesday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Wednesday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Thursday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening CLOSED
Friday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Saturday
Lunch 12 – 2.30 pm Evening 4.30 – 8pm

The Golden Galleon (below The Upper Deck Diner) serves take-away fish and chips as well as a variety of burgers, pies and Fish and Chip Shop favourites. You can have them wrapped to enjoy at home or eat them the Aldeburgh way: sat on the seawall watching the waves breaking against the pebbles. Either way they’re delicious!

Opening hours:

Sunday
Open 12 – 6 pm
Monday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Tuesday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Wednesday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Thursday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening CLOSED
Friday
Lunch 12 – 2.00 pm Evening 5 – 8pm
Saturday
Lunch 12 – 2.30 pm Evening 4.30 – 8pm

137 High Street
Aldeburgh, IP15 5AR
‎01728 454 685

Stay in Aldeburgh

Since then the cinema has gone from strength to strength. Grants from the National Lottery have enabled the foyer to be transformed and the auditorium to be refurbished to a very high standard, including Quinette seating, acknowledged as the best in the world. The cinema was a founder member of the UK Film Council’s Digital Screen Network and is equiped with a High Definition projector, enabling it to broaden its programme and screen films in pristine condition, in addition to a pair of 35mm projectors. The cinema also boasts Digital Dolby Stereo, a PA system and a Bechstein grand piano.

In 1995 the cinema started the Aldeburgh Documentary Film Festival which has welcomed many of the best documentary filmmakers in the UK over the years to introduce their work to sell out audiences.

The cinema also hosts a Children’s Film Festival in October and numerous special events, including live opera & ballet from the New York Met & the Royal Opera House.

51 High Street
Aldeburgh
IP15 5AU
Tel: 01728 452996
Fax: 01728 454026

Stay in Aldeburgh

Our philosophy is to provide collections which allow women the freedom to express their individuality. All the collections are chosen from international designers who appreciate women and their uniqueness, and the small team has a combined retail knowledge of over 25 years.

A relaxed and welcoming environment, where our enthusiasm and love of clothes will make you feel at ease, adds to the charm and appeal of Caramel. We do not believe anyone should feel pressured to make a purchase; we want you to leave our shop feeling better for the experience and knowing you will feel happy to make a return visit.

We stock sizes from 8 – 20 and 22 -24 in some labels. We also have an excellent local seamstress so alterations can be arranged.

140 High Street
Aldeburgh
IP15 5AQ
Telephone: 01728 452141

Stay in Aldeburgh

From April to September the emphasis of the menu is on locally caught fish and seafood. However, vegetarian, poultry and meat dishes are always available.

Gourmet evenings are just one example of the many special events on offer throughout the year. They were introduced a few years ago to provide something completely different to the customers, and add huge amounts of charm and individuality to the restaurant.

A lovely restaurant to enjoy a fantastic meal while exploring the beauty of Aldeburgh.

171 High Street
Aldeburgh
Suffolk
IP15 5AN
01728 452011
rob.maybey@btinternet.com

Opening hours: Click here to visit the Regatta website

Stay in Aldeburgh

Lawson’s has won ‘Deli of the Year Award 2010′ and has also been judged ‘Best Delicatessen’ in the Suffolk Food and Drink Awards in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Their pork pies, made by Claire with locally produced Blythburgh free range pork, were awarded ‘Champion Pie of Pies’ at the 2009 Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival.

Many of the products stocked in the shop are sourced from within Suffolk, which has a rich and diverse network of artisan food producers, but you will also find plenty of produce from further afield. The products made daily by Claire and her team in Lawson’s kitchen are very popular too – expect in season local game terrines, asparagus tarts, salads, soups and sweet pastries.

Lawson’s Delicatessen are also pleased to offer Holiday Cottage Welcome Hampers to make the start of your holiday stress free and enjoyable.

To make life easier for you when you arrive, they will deliver supper, a light snack and/or breakfast essentials to your cottage. The products are carefully selected for each hamper, sourcing local and/or organic produce where possible. Cottage pies, fish pies and roast vegetable lasagnes are prepared by our experienced chefs in the delicatessen kitchens. All hampers are sufficient for four people. A delicious start to the holiday!

138 High Street
Aldeburgh
Suffolk
IP15 5AQ
01728 454052
info@lawsonsdelicatessen.co.uk

Stay in Aldeburgh

At the Waterfront Cafe the menu reflects seasonal availability. Summer offerings will include local lobster, large crab, local oysters, wild salmon & sea trout, wild sea bass, skate & sole. During this time all salad leaves served at The Waterfront Cafe are painstakingly grown by the owners in their organic gardens and are free from pesticides & chemicals.

From Autumn the menu warms up to homemade soups, risotto, local pheasant, partridge, venison, Pigeon & Rabbit together with prime Local Fish such as Cod & Skate.

The uncomplicated Menu changes Daily with Seasonal Availability always complemented by an extensive sophisticated Wine List.

Stay in Woodbridge

Richardson’s Smokehouse produces traditionally cured meats, game, poultry and fish.  A family favourite of ours in the smoked ham hock – makes excellent sandwiches for work.

The art of long, slow smokings using only oak wood is the secret to the delicious succulence. No preservatives, dyes or additives are used; only pure salt is added to the wholesome goodness of the food here.

This thriving business has been going strong since 1986, and is set in a side lane off the Main Square in Orford, with a small serving area, kitchens to the rear and the adjoining brickbuilt smoke rooms, one hot – for the game and fish – and one cold – for the haddock. prawns, cheese and other delicacies. Much loved by cookery writer - Nigel Slater – recommendation enough for me.

Open 7 days a week 10.00 am to 4.00 pm Telephone orders are welcome and there’s a mail order service on request.

Richardson’s Smokehouse Bakers Lane, Orford Suffolk IP12 2LH  Tel 01394 450103

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Orford River Trips

Starting at Orford Quay, The Regardless heads south passing Orford Castle, the fascinating pagodas on Orford Ness, and Havergate Island, home of Britain’s RSPB Bird Reserve, internationally famous for its rare breeds and migrant birds. Seven miles of unspoilt river, a trip that returns on a different route, making it two boat trips in one.  Adults and children delight in this trip – children can hold crabs and look at the lobsters in their pots – guaranteed to be thrilled.

Departure times from Orford Quay depending on the season and weather.

Please telephone for times on recorded message or see board on Orford Quay, Orford, Suffolk IP12 2NU. Tel 01394 459984, mobile 07900 230579

No need to book for this trip, just turn up and pay on the boat.

Adults £8.00
Children £6.00 (under 16)

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Owner, Stuart Bacon, is a noted marine archaeologist and has dived in the waters off Dunwich many times, exploring the ruins of the former town of Dunwich.  On the 1st floor, above Orford Crafts is Suffolk Underwater Studies, a fascinating exhibition of insight into the Suffolk coast and its shoreline.  the centrepiece is a detailed study of the underwater site of medieval Dunwich.

Orford Crafts, Front Street, Orford, Suffolk IP12 2LN Tel: 01394 450678

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Pump Street Bakery is about real bread; bread made by hand, using traditional methods and all natural ingredients, baked and eaten within hours. The Pump Street Bakery specialises in sourdough breads which are made without commercial yeast. Their sourdoughs are allowed to rise slowly to reveal a rich and complex flavour, then baked fresh daily to achieve their spongy texture and crisp, bubbly crust. Irresistible!

They also serve simple meals centred around the bread and local produce in their café  Wed – Fri 12 pm – 3 pm.  Weekend brunch is served from 9 am on Saturdays and 10 am on Sundays, with lunch dishes available from 12 pm on those days.

The menu is simple and delicious.  What could be better than a bracing walk along the river followed by:

• Cherry and hazelnut Birchermuesli
• Bacon, roasted fennel and rocket bun
• Green pea and lovage soup, Tuscan olive oil, mini baguette
• Lemon and tarragon chicken salad, little gem and kohlrabi open sandwich
• Neal’s Yard cheese plate with Eccles

Winter Opening Hours 2012 – Pump Street Bakery, 1 Pump Street, Orford, Suffolk, IP12 2LZ – 01394 459829

Pump Street Bakery is closed from Monday 2nd January, 2012 for three weeks, reopening on Wednesday 25th January 2012.

Normal Winter Opening Hours:

Wed – Saturday 9 am – 4pm

Sunday 10 am – 4 pm

Stay in Orford

More ‘Brideshead Revisited’ than Jane Austen, this country mansion has been restored and furnished to provide  spectacularly stylish accommodation for 22 people.

As the visitor approaches Orford by road the unmistakable shape of Orford Ness lighthouse may be fleetingly glimpsed a couple of miles away by the seashore to the east, its red and white stripes vivid even on the dullest of days. It has stood there since 1792 and quite apart from its importance as a vital aid to mariners, it has been always in the vanguard of technical development. Originally it was the taller one of a pair, the lower light by the shore providing a sure means of getting an accurate bearing. The Low Light was washed into the sea during the late 19^th century. Sadly, this survivor will follow suit in the not too distant future.

In 1837, the private owner of the Ness Light, Lord Braybrooke, was compelled by Act of Parliament to surrender his property to the prestigious corporation, Trinity House. It owns the building and land on which it stands. Over the years it has had to operate in partnership with whoever was in possession of the rest of Orford Ness – for most of the last century, the War Office/Ministry of Defence, and since 1993, the National Trust.

Straddling the lighthouse tower were two cottages for the keepers’ families, with outbuildings, some of which still stand. The cottages were demolished after the Second World War. The keepers’ families were withdrawn in 1936, when the increasingly important military work going on all around them led to the need to tighten security. Prior to this, what a lonely place it must have been. Yet astonishingly, they were living under the tracks of the main experimental bombing range of the RAF. All access to the village necessitated a long walk past the nerve-centre of the range, across shingle and grazing marsh to the river, to pick up a ferry. The children would then have had to walk a further mile or so up to the school. In winter, life must have been particularly tough.

The equipment installed in the Ness Light was invariably ‘state of the art’. It was the first on the east coast to use oil for the lantern. In the 1860s, new Fresnel prisms were introduced., with the latest types of reflective mirrors. The consultant engineer who invented the light-flashing system was one John Hopkinson, whose son Bertram became Professor of Engineering at Cambridge and was commanding officer in the Royal Flying Corps in overall charge on the Ness, until killed in a flying accident in 1918. The Ness Light was later electrified in 1959 and then fully automated, controlled remotely from Harwich. The last keepers to operate on site departed on 20^th September 1965. But monthly visits to check the equipment continued, and led to further innovations, with a Logic Control Unit in 1991. This was intended to make failure impossible. But it did fail. This was due to faulty lightning conductors in 2000, but that apart, the Ness continues to serve all types of mariner to this day.

This has always been a particularly hazardous coastline, with currents and shoals necessitating careful navigation. Over the years numbers of vessels have come to grief on the Ness. In recent years the volume of shipping has increased, with the development of Felixstowe as one of the world’s major container ports. There has always been a heavy flow of local and inshore traffic, with goods being ferried to London from the north-east coast ports. And until relatively recently, in-shore fishing has been a major activity.  On top of this, and with international ferry services across the North Sea, there has been a major growth in recreational sailing, East Anglia is noted for its river estuaries with safe anchorages and marinas. All this makes the threat of abandonment of the Ness Light a matter of grave local concern. But coastal erosion is currently averaging 4 meters a year and the survival of the whole structure is in serious doubt.

A few yards to the south of the lighthouse stands the derelict remains of what was once a fine Victorian-period coastguards’ lookout. Throughout the 19^th century, the coastguard service performed a most important role in what was the location for serious smuggling. This is the setting for the notable legendary story of Margaret Catchpole. Alas, the pace of coastal erosion has removed any thought of restoring the building.

For over 200 years, Orford Ness lighthouse has played its part in guarding the east coast. During the two World Wars, the light was extinguished except when authorised by the Royal Navy to guide a coastal convoy. It was too a useful marker for incoming bomber returning from raids over Germany. The tower inevitably was allowed to deteriorate. It was actually machine-gunned by the Luftwaffe. A V-1 doodlebug exploded by it in 1944, and an Italian aircraft crashed in 1940 only a few yards to the north. Now, its survival is threatened as never before. Visitors who admire its bright red and white stripes and its handsome proportions are advised to enjoy them while they can. Orford must surely within the next decade lose an iconic sight.

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Home from the Sea is a set of six portraits of the life of Robert Louis Stevenson, scored for string orchestra, horn, timpani, baritone solo and choir. The music includes settings of Stevenson’s two best-known poems, ‘Requiem’ and ‘Over the Sea to Skye’.

Merman is set to a text by Hannah Silva, which takes its cue from the local legend of the ‘wild man of Orford’ – Ralph of Coggeshall’s 13^th- century account of the mysterious man brought ashore in fishermen’s nets. Taken to Orford Castle, the man was fed and also tortured to make him speak; when he remained silent, the villagers concluded that he was harmless and took him to the shore to exercise in the sea: he escaped, and his spirit haunted the villagers from that day forth.

Also in the programme are two pieces by Haydn: Salve Regina and the Missa Brevis, and two by Mozart – Ave verum corpus and one of the so-called ‘Salzburg Symphonies’ (actually a delightful Divertimento).

The soloist is baritone Jeremy Huw Williams who returns following his huge success in AMC’s Belshazzar’s Feast. The choir is accompanied by the Prometheus Orchestra under their conductor Edmond Fivet.

With classics by Mozart and Haydn and two new pieces with strong local connections, the concert is a not-to-be missed event.

Tickets, priced £15, are available from the Aldeburgh Music Box Office                    Tel: 01728 687110, from www.aldeburghmusicclub.org.uk, and from Friend’s Garage, Orford and at the door. (It is likely to be a sell out so book early)

Stay in Orford

The walk begins at Gardner Road Car Park on the edge of Southwold Common, Suffolk:

Walk across the common golf course heading towards the water tower. From here take a left turn onto the road near the tower. Head west towards the River Blyth. In front of the Harbour Inn pub, walk left onto a path, follow this path down the river bank until you reach Southwold Lifeboat station. Near the mouth of the river Blyth, take a left turn along the coast walking beside the beach huts and cafe. At the cafe, turn inland and turn right at Ferry road. You will approach a right hand bend, take the road opposite – Gardner Road which will lead you back to the car park.

To see: Water tower, Harbour Inn, Blyth River, Lifeboat Station, Beach Huts.

Harbour Inn, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6TA, Tel: 01502 722381, opening weekdays 11 – 11, Sundays 12 – 10.30