Cambridgeshire & Norfolk Signpost 2011

Annual Publication - The Ultimate County Guidewww.countysignpost.co.uk

Historic Houses | Attractions | Museums & ArtsTowns & Districts | Open Air

Issue 2 - 2011

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VISITPETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL

ONE OF THE UK’S TOP 10 LANDMARKS

As voted in a 2007 Fujifilm users poll

� One of the finest Norman Cathedrals in Europe� The burial place of two former Queens� A beautiful, Gothic West Front adorned with 33 statues� The oldest hand-painted Nave ceiling in the UK� Guided tours including history, legends and myths� An interactive exhibition and excellent souvenir kiosk� First class hospitality and conference facilities� Group and school visits welcome by appointment

FIND OUT MORE...www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk Call 01733 343342

Mon-Fri - 9.00am to 5.30pm Sat - 9.00am to 5.00pm Sun - 12pm to 3.15pmServices may take place during these times, visit our website for details. Closed Boxing Day.

Come along with the family and enjoy a great timeon the delightful Nene Valley Railway.

The Railway runs alongside the River Nene and through the500-acre Ferry Meadows Country Park.

The NVR is also home to 'Thomas',children's favourite engine, regularly in steam.

Services run on weekends and Wednesdays until October.Santa specials operate in December.

A welcome awaits on theTHE NENE VALLEY RAILWAY

Enquiries 01780 784444 website www.nvr.org.ukWansford Station (on the A1), Stibbington,

Nr Peterborough PE8 6LR

CONTENTS

Signpost - page 1

Published by: County Signpost Ltd

Editor: Adam Davison

Historic Buildings

Attractions

Museums & Arts

The Open Air

Welcome to the 2011 edition of Cambridgeshire& Norfolk County Signpost Tourist Guide, yourindispensable guide to the best tourist attrac-tions and days out the county has to offer.

We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure toread, both interesting and informative, and thatyou will take it away with you, to use again andagain.

We offer a taster of the visitor attractions andevents within the County, for both locals andthose who wish to visit from afar.

To be featured in our next edition -please email the editor.

County Signpost LtdCounty Signpost Ltd01743 87409801743 874098

[email protected]@countysignpost.co.uk

For a free download please visitour new map-driven,

online magazine websitewww.countysignpost.co.uk

Please mentionCambridgeshire &Norfolk Signpostwhen visiting any ofthe attractions.

All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, cor-rect at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd does notaccept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies whichslipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd 2011.No part of this magazine may be used orreproduced without the written permission of thepublisher.

Go to your phone’s app storeto download our new, freeCounty Signpost app !

Wimpole Estate

Step in to times past in the magnificent 18th-century house at the heart of Wimpole Estate.

The mansion is set amongst parkland, completewith an eerie Gothic tower, Chinese bridge andserpentine lakes, created by the greatest land-scapers of their day - Bridgeman, Brown andRepton.

Bought in 1938 by Elsie Bambridge, the hall’slast owner, it was devoid of any furniture orpaintings. What you see today at Wimpole is aculmination of development of the earlier own-ers and the collection assembled by CaptainGeorge and Elsie Bambridge.

Stroll around the colourful parterre garden andwander through the pleasure grounds, filled withmajestic trees and daffodils. The grounds extend

out to the walled garden, abundant with fruit,vegetables and herbaceous borders.

Wandering around our park, you’ll see our rarelivestock grazing amongst regal trees.

At Wimpole you can gain a fascinating insightinto all aspects of running a large, active estate.Talk to our farmers about the challenges beingfaced as we convert the farm towards a self-suf-ficient, organic future, or the more green-fin-gered can get some handy tips from our garden-ers.

Wimpole Hall & Home FarmArrington, Royston, Cambs SG8 0BWTelephone 01223 206000Email [email protected]/wimpole

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Anglesey Abbey

Lord Fairhaven wanted to inspire and surpriseguests to his first home and, some 70 years later,the estate still has the same effect on visitors.

Behind its Jacobean-style exterior, AngleseyAbbey is a vision of the golden age of Englishcountry house living.

The Dining Room is the heart of AngleseyAbbey. Originally the monastic 'calefactorium' or'warming room', it was the only space in the pri-ory to have a fireplace. It was here that themonks relaxed between religious duties. LordFairhaven turned this wonderful space into hisDining Room.

There is something to admire all year round inthe gardens of the Abbey, with bloominghyacinths in spring, beautiful herbaceous bor-

ders and wildlife in summer, exotic dahlias inautumn and a winter garden showing dramaticcontrasts of texture and colour.

Anglesey’s Lode Mill dates from the 18th centu-ry, but early records, including the 1068Doomsday Book describe a building on the site.The mill was restored to working condition in1982 by the Cambridgeshire Wind and WatermillSociety.

Today you can step inside and see how thepower of water is harnessed to grind tens oftons of flour every year, and pick up your ownfreshly ground flour and oatmeal by the bag.

Anglesey Abbey, Gardens & Lode MillQuy Road, Lode, Cambridge CB25 9EJTelephone 01223 810080Email [email protected]/angleseyabbey

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© NT/Fisheye Images, RReell aaxx iinn gg iinn tthhee ppaarrkk aatt WWiimmppooll ee EEsstt aatt ee

NATIONAL TRUST

Wicken Fen National Nature ReserveLode Lane, Wicken, Cambs CB7 5XPTelephone 01353 720274 Email [email protected]/wickenfen

Peckover House & Garden

Peckover House is a secret gem, an oasis hiddenaway in an urban environment. A classicGeorgian merchant's townhouse, it was lived inby the Peckover family for 150 years.

The Peckovers were staunch Quakers, whichmeant they had a very simple lifestyle; yet at thesame time they ran a successful private bank.Both facets of their life can be seen as you wan-der through the house and gardens.

The simple elegance of the exterior belies theelaborate interior decoration of the house, awealth of plaster and wood in the tradition ofthe very best 18th-century craftsmen.

Peckover is a hands-on house, with dressing upclothes for children of all ages, a working pianoand three floors that give an insight into the fas-cinating lives of both the family and servants.

The Victorian gardens themselves are two acresof sensory delight, complete with orangery,summerhouses, croquet lawn and rose gardenwith more than 60 species of rose.

There are engaging displays about the Peckoverfamily throughout the house, as well as a relax-ing tea-room, shop and second hand bookshop.

Peckover House & GardenNorth Brink, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 1JRTelephone 01945 583463 Email [email protected]/peckover

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Wicken Fen

At Wicken Fen you’ll discover an ancient fenlandwith an abundance of amazing wildlife.

There are more than 800 species, including aspectacular array of plants, birds and dragon-flies. Look out for our wild deer strolling aroundthe land, our famous herds of Konik ponies orhave a go at bird watching from one of ourmany bird hides throughout the reserve.

Wicken Fen, which celebrated its 110th anniver-sary in 2009, has always played an important rolein the social and economic life of the area, pro-viding materials for thatching local houses, bed-ding and feed for animals, as well as fish andfowl for food, and peat for food.

Enjoy the peace of wandering through lushgroves, whilst the raised boardwalk allows easyaccess to a lost landscape of flowering meadows,sedge and reed beds, where you can encounterrarities such as hen harriers, water voles and bit-terns.

The Wicken Fen Vision is an ambitious land-scape-scale project, at the forefront of modernnature conversation. It will open up new landsand routes to explore, as well as safeguard therare wetland species of the Fen, and offset habi-tats lost on the coast. As part of the Vision, youcan now cycle eight miles along the Lodes Wayfrom Wicken Fen to Anglesey Abbey.

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Wicken Fen © NTPL/Paul Harris, TThheeii ccoonnii cc wwiinnddppuummpp aatt WWiicckkeenn FFeenn

Peckover Reed Barn © NT/Fisheye Images, RReell aaxx wwii tthh ffrr ii eennddss aanndd ffaammiill yy aa tt PPee cckkoovveerr '' ss RRee eedd BBaarrnn tt eeaa--rroo oomm

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Houghton Mill

Almost demolished in the 16th century,Houghton Mill is the only working watermill onthe great Ouse.

The five-storey building was saved by local vil-lagers and restored to working order to carry thetradition of milling on this site, which continuesto this day. Corn is ground by a pair of mill-stones powered by the north waterwheel, whichwas re-instated in 1999.

The hands-on exhibits, including traditionalhand querns (stone devices for grinding flour)and models that show how the mill uses thepower of the River Great Ouse, provide a fasci-nating learning experience for young and old.

Set in an idyllic location, on an island on theRiver Great Ouse, Houghton Mill has inspiredartists and photographers for generations. Comeand experience the sound and atmosphere of atraditional working mill, have a go at makingflour or lose yourself in the tranquillity of theriverside setting.

The tea room offers delicious treats to refreshyou after your visit.

Houghton, nr Huntingdon, Cambs PE28 2AZTelephone 01480 301494 Email [email protected]

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Houghton Mill copyright NTPL/Robert Morris

Blickling Estate

At the heart of this 5,000 acre estate is the mag-nificent Blickling Hall. Inside, you can followfour centuries of history: from Tudor Englandand the Anne Boleyn connection to the outbreakof the second world war.

You can enjoy a real Edwardian ‘upstairs, down-stairs’ experience at Blickling. Upstairs, you canimagine yourself as a guest at one of LordLothian’s parties in the 1930s and, downstairs,you listen to the actual stories of the people whokept Blickling going, including Lord Lothian’scook, Mrs Wadlow.

Outside, there is always something new to see asthe gardens change with the seasons. Thousandsof daffodils, tulips and hyacinths create a spec-tacular display in the spring and the parterre andherbaceous borders are sizzling with colour in

the summer. Walk through the park and be sur-rounded by the rich reds, oranges and browns ofautumn and, in the winter, enjoy the winter flow-ering shrubs in the new Orangery Garden.

For some great seasonal, local food, stop off atthe restaurant or café and relax awhile.Bookworms will enjoy browsing the second-hand bookshop and there’s a plant centre for thegreen-fingered. The only decision that’s left iswhere to go next – Felbrigg Hall andSheringham Park are only half an hour away!

Blickling, Norwich, Norfolk NR11 6NFEnquiries 01263 738030 or [email protected]/blickling

© NTPL/Rod Edwards, EExxppee rr iieennccee llii ff ee uuppss ttaa ii rrss aanndd ddoowwnnssttaa ii rr ss aa tt BBllii cckklliinngg HHaallll

Horsey Windpump

The iconic windpump sits within the beautifullandscape of the Norfolk Broads. It’s an interna-tionally important site for wildlife and, if youclimb to the top of the windpump you can enjoystriking views over Horsey Mere.

Bursting with wildlife, especially during the sum-mer, you may be lucky enough to spot theSwallowtail butterfly, Britain’s largest andshowiest butterfly. The wildflower meadow isheaven to bees and hoverflies but you mightcatch a glimpse of a grass snake, Chinese waterdeer or barn owl too. Young Marsh Harriers areoften about, if they’ve had a successful breedingseason. You might hear them, noisily begging forfood from their parents, while learning the art ofhunting for themselves, quartering low over theground. Look out for cuckoos as they prepare toleave: adults first in late summer, followed by theorange-coloured juveniles in September.

The accessible ponds, surrounded by sensoryplants, are teeming with life and there is a circu-lar walk with access to the beach at Horsey Gap.While you’re here, you can pick up a souvenir atthe small gift shop and find out more about thearea. Light refreshments are available too,including tea, coffee and ice-creams.

Horsey Staithe Stores, Horsey, Great Yarmouth NR29 4EFEnquiries 01263 740241 or [email protected]


Felbrigg Hall

Tucked away near the north Norfolk coast,Felbrigg Hall has been scratched and torn-at bythe Norfolk weather, revealing a building ofmany contrasts.

A mixture of opulence and homeliness, Felbrigghas been lived in by some interesting charactersand there are tell-tale signs everywhere. WilliamWindham II returned from his Grand Tour in1742 with a wonderful collection of books andpictures which you can see today, but his fascina-tion with fireworks ended in an explosion,destroying his workshop and windows in theservice yard!

Food is celebrated everywhere. In the DiningRoom you can read what was on the menu in1860. In the kitchen, you can see where meat and

fresh produce from the estate would have beenprepared. In the kitchen garden, you might spota gardener or two tending to vegetables or fruitthat’s grown and used in the brasserie. Not onlyis a visit to Felbrigg a great opportunity to haveyour gardening questions answered, but you canalso enjoy some great local produce that’s beenlovingly cultivated just a few steps away. If you’renot already a regular visitor to Felbrigg, youwon’t want to miss the Chilli Fiesta in Augusteach year – it’s hot!

Felbrigg, Norwich NR11 8PREnquiries 01263 837444 or [email protected]/felbrigg

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County Signpost

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Sheringham Park

For a real sense of space, peace and tranquillity,Sheringham Park is hard to beat. There are lotsof waymarked walks and spots to stop and takein the beautiful coast and countryside of northNorfolk.

Set within 50 acres of the estate, this wild gardenof mature woodland contains one of England'smost extensive collections of rhododendrons,azaleas, magnolias and camellias. May and June isthe best time to see the rhodies. If you climb tothe top of the viewing towers, you can look outover the colourful canopy and out to sea – itreally is breathtaking. You may also spot a pass-ing steam train – the Poppy Line can be caughtfrom Weybourne which is a pleasant 40-minutewalk away.

Stop off at the visitor centre and you’ll find the‘Red Book’ that landscape designer HumphryRepton used to showcase his designs forSheringham Park in 1812. Full of beautiful illus-trations, Repton’s Red Books were consideredthe ‘coffee table’ books of the day.

Relax after your walk with a drink in the court-yard and visit the shop for a souvenir ofSheringham Park. Felbrigg Hall and SheringhamPark are only ten minutes apart so you can seeboth in one day!

Wood Farm Visitor Centre, Upper Sheringham NR26 8TLEnquiries 01263 820550 or [email protected]/sheringham

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Oxburgh Hall

No one forgets their first sight of Oxburgh Hall, a romantic moated manor house, built by theBedingfeld family in the 15th Century,

The Gatehouse is completely unchanged andrises eighty feet above the atmospheric moat.On the first floor is the King's Room whereHenry VII stayed on a visit in 1487 and nearbyis a room displaying the Marian Hangings.These are panels of needlework embroidered byMary, Queen of Scots during her captivity atSheffield Castle, and brought to Oxburgh as partof a bride's dowry in the 18th century. From theroof, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sur-rounding gardens and the intricate Frenchparterre.

Gain an insight to the family’s Catholic history,complete with a secret priest’s hole which youcan crawl inside and a private chapel built withreclaimed Tudor materials.

Relax after exploring the hall in our Old Kitchentea-room, or pick up something to take away inthe well-stocked gift shop, including localNorfolk products. There are also plant sales forthe green-fingered in the family and a second-hand bookshop.

Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough, King’s Lynn PE33 9PSEnquiries 01366 328258 or [email protected] www.nationaltrust.org.uk/oxburghhall

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© NTPL/David Levenson, DDoonn''tt mmii ssss tthhee mmaaggnnii ffii cc eenn tt dd ii sspp llaayy ooff rrhhooddooddeennddrroonn ssaatt SShhee rr iinn gghhaamm PPaarrkk

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The Place to be in 2011

2010 was a tough year for the UK as we strug-gled to battle through the recession and dustourselves off but one positive that remains is agreater appreciation for what we have in ourlives and what wonders we have here in the UK.A new type of holiday has even been founded asa result of looking for novel things to do at ourown front door. Regional days out, weekendsaway or ‘Staycations’ as they are known are nowa top priority for those looking for low costactivities and exciting days out.

So, suppose you were told of a top 10 UK land-mark residing in beautiful surroundings in theheart of a bustling and cosmopolitan city centre,with plenty on offer for all to enjoy includingculture, heritage, music and the arts…wouldyour immediate thoughts be of London,Manchester…Liverpool perhaps?

Well no, think again…

You may not be aware but in the heart of thebeautiful and vibrant region of Cambridgeshirelies an ‘undiscovered gem’ in the awe inspiringshape of Peterborough’s one and only breath-

taking Norman Cathedral - voted the sixthfavourite landmark in the whole of the UK, evencoming out ahead of London Tower Bridge!*

With close to 100,000 visitors each and everyyear, Peterborough Cathedral provides a won-derful haven of tranquillity and beauty amid thecosmopolitan array of shops and restaurantsthat line the streets today and has something tooffer everyone at this beautiful sacred space.

As well as still operating as a thriving ChristianChurch, today the Cathedral offers a wide arrayof activity including an interactive exhibition,fascinating historic and Cathedral tower tours,an exciting array of arts and crafts based eventsnot to mention a popular new coffee shop andfirst class education, hospitality and conferenc-ing facilities.

Special Events

Seth Lakeman - 10th May 2011Singer/songwriter performing music from hisrecent albums – ‘Hearts & Minds’ and ‘PoorMan’s Heaven.’

Heritage Festival - 25th & 26 June 2011This event attracted over 20,000 visitors lastyear, and included a Viking camp, Roman fightsand dancing in a Tudor court.

The Sixteen - 30th September 2011International Choral sensation making theirthird visit to the Cathedral in the last twelvemonths.

See the website for details of these and otherevents :www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL

The West Front

Education

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The house was recreated andmade famous as the house ofGreen Knowe by Lucy Bostonin her series of children'sbooks, now regarded as clas-sics. Her son Peter's illustra-tions depict many of thethings in the house and gar-

den. The attic contains toys used by the fiction-al children of the past; thus visitors get the feel-ing of 'walking into the books'.

She wrote about family belongings in the houseand her son Peter Boston illustrated the books,drawing many of these as well as the house andgarden.

In the winter, as well as writing, Lucy Bostonmade many exquisite patchworks, most of whichare on display. Rarely can such an important col-lection be seen in the house in which the exhibitswere made.

This moated house is surrounded by four acresof garden renowned for its collection of over200 old roses and a collection of irises contain-ing many famous Dykes medal winners, most ofthem dating from the 1950s. There are hiddencorners in the garden so visitors find themselves

coming to unexpected parts which are unantici-pated from the first impression gained by look-ing down into it from the public footpath alongthe towpath beside the river Great Ouse. Withits large herbaceous borders of mainly scentedplants the garden gives the feeling of being acottage garden full of favourite plants in a ratherformal setting of lawns with topiary coronationshapes and chess pieces in their black and whiteplanted squares.

The GardenThe garden is open daily from 11am to 5pm(dusk in winter). No appointment is needed.

The HouseThe House is open throughout the year butstrictly by appointment.

Telephone 01480 463134www.greenknowe.co.uk

THE MANORCounty Signpost

As well as the wonder of the building and thevibrant events programme available, theCathedral also holds enormous appeal for thosewith an interest in nature and the outdoors. Withstunning grounds and beautifully greenPrecincts, the Cathedral is blessed with an abun-dance of breath-taking open spaces, not least thecaptivating Deanery Gardens, which are nowopen for public viewing approximately 3 times ayear.

For those more interested in the architecture andthe exquisite stone masonry why not take aCathedral tower tour to see the stonework first

hand as well as enjoying the panoramic views ofPeterborough from on high. Alternatively, ourCathedral tours of the building and/or thePrecincts will divulge fascinating facts aboutCathedral history, myths and legends associatedwith the Cathedral’s colourful past.

Open 364 days a year (closed on Boxing Day)for visiting from around 9am until around5.30pm weekdays and 9.00am to 5.00pm Sat and12pm until 3.15pm on Sundays, there is nocharge for admission to Peterborough Cathedralbut donations are invited as the Cathedral hascharitable status and receives no funding fromthe state to raise the £1.3 million required eachyear to maintain its operation. With excellentrailway links and easy access to this beautifulattraction in the heart of the up and coming, cityof Peterborough – the Cathedral is one not to bemissed as a top 10 Landmark in the UK* (asvoted by Fujifilm users in a 2007 poll).

For more information on what PeterboroughCathedral can offer or any of the many eventsheld throughout the year please visit www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or call theCathedral Office switchboard on 01733 343342.

Heritage Days

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County Signpost www.countysignpost.co.uk

Location, Location, Location

Ely Cathedral may be famous for being the onlyUK building to be listed as ‘one of the sevenmedieval wonders of the world’ but now it canalso add another accolade, as one of the hottestfilm locations in East Anglia. ‘The King’sSpeech’ which has already accumulated a total of7 BAFTAs including Best Film, Best BritishFilm and Best Actor, and 4 Academy Awards,(including Best Picture, Best Actor, BestDirector and Best Original Screenplay) used theCathedral as a location for one of the key scenesin the film.

The film was based at Elstree Studios inHertfordshire, and the creative team spent 10days in Ely Cathedral building an impressive setto transform the Transepts, Nave and Octagoninto the interior of Westminster Abbey. Thescene in question shows the reluctant KingGeorge VI (Colin Firth) visit the Abbey with hisunorthodox speech therapist, Lionel Logue(Geoffrey Rush), on the eve of the coronation.Those who know Ely well will easily spot themagnificent shot of the Nave as Geoffrey Rushenters from the West Door, or the distinctive‘Choir’ as Rush and Firth have altercations withDerek Jocobi who plays The Archbishop ofCanterbury.

This is the fifth time in as many years that ElyCathedral has been used as a prominent filmlocation. In 2007 the Cathedral won the awardfor ‘Best Location’ at the Creative East Awardsfor Elizabeth: The Golden Age featuring CateBlanchet & Clive Owen and was nominatedagain in 2009 for The Other Boleyn Girl, star-ring Natalie Portman & Scarlett Johansson.

To celebrate the film’s success MomentumPictures have allowed a special screening insidethe Cathedral to be shown in the evening of the29th April, which coincides with the day of theRoyal Wedding. In addition the Cathedral hopeto have a small display of stills & shots of thefilming at Ely on display plus the CoronationChair used in the film, an exact replica of theCoronation Chair at Westminster Abbey whichhas been used to crown almost every Englishmonarch since Edward II.

www.elycathedral.org

ELY CATHEDRAL

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who hired John Thomas, Prince Albert’sfavourite architect, to carry out extensiverebuilding.

Carved Caen stone was used to dress the exteri-or red brick of the original house, sumptuousmaterials utilised to embellish the interiors,paintings commissioned for the house and theparkland was completely transformed andredesigned.

This flurry of activities came to an abrupt endwhen the money ran out and Samuel MortonPeto went bankrupt. The house was sold to SirFrancis Crossley, the son of a Yorkshire-basedcarpet manufacturer who purchased theSomerleyton estate in 1863. Since mid-19th cen-tury the estate has remained in the hands of the

Crossley family who are continuing to play anactive role in the conservation of the house andgrounds and enjoy living in this magnificentmansion.

Somerleyton Hall & GardensExplore the 12 acres of beautifully landscapedgardens, get lost for a while in the famous 1846yew hedge maze, one of the finest in England.Take a guided tour of the Hall then enjoy thehome made delights of the WintergardenTearooms.

Fritton LakeNearby on the estate is Fritton Lake. The jewelin the estate crown, with lakeside walks, ninehole golf course, fishing, horse-riding, rowingand guided boat trips. The children will enjoy itsViking fort, children’s adventure playground,boating lake, pony rides and wellie trail.

Keep the children amused

For children there is no shortage of things toexplore including an adventure playground, amaze and gardens, a Viking fort, pony rides,cycle trail and wellie walks.

Relax and unwindThe less energetic will find abundant spaces tounwind, relax and chill. There is also a charminglocal village and The Duke’s Head pub in Slug’sLane rated for its food, beer and friendly atmosphere.

Open April - October.Telephone 01502 734901 www.somerleyton.co.uk

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With two major attractions and the Duke’s Headgastro pub Somerleyton Estate has everythingyou need for a great day out – or stay a littlelonger in one of the Fritton Lake woodlandlodges where you are well placed to explore theNorfolk Broads. All sorts of adventures can beorganised for you, from hot air ballooning toriver and sea trips or just enjoy life in the slowlane around the estate and picturesque village.

History of Somerleyton Hall

The grounds of Somerleyton Hall have beenhome to high status buildings since the post con-

quest Norman era. In 1240 the existing manori-al Hall was rebuilt by Sir Peter Fitzosbert as amagnificent country house on the site of theoriginal medieval Hall.

Four centuries later the house was furtherenlarged and restyled by John Wentworth andtransformed into an archetypal East AnglianTudor-Jacobean mansion.

The Hall’s final and most drastic alteration tookplace in 1843 under new ownership of a wealthyVictorian entrepreneur Samuel Morton Peto

SOMERLEYTON ESTATE

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Aerial view of the maze, with withSomerleyton Hall in the background

The Dining Room

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Steam and slam-doors!Today's NVR is the preserved heritage railwaywhich operates along 7.5 miles along the formerPeterborough to Northampton line whichclosed under the Dr Beeching regime in 1966.Wansford station, next to the A1, is the mainheadquarters and sports the loco depot (visitorsmay walk round), excellent refreshment roomand shop.

This is the railway where countless televisionprogrammes have been filmed as well as beingthe setting for two James Bond epics –Octopussy starring Roger Moors and GoldenEye starring Piers Brosnan! The rock groupQueen filmed their video ‘Breakthrough’ on theNVR.

The Railway is the home to the original‘Thomas’, the children’s favourite engine – it wasnamed in 1972 by the Rev Awdry who wrote thebooks about the little blue engine which becameso popular with youngsters. Thomas is in steamat all the Bank Holidays and for special events.

The Railway is open every weekend,Wednesdays, plus more weekdays in the summerseason. There are in addition some superb galas– Steam, Diesel, Wartime Weekend, VintageVehicles – something for everyone. The Railwayoften gives demonstrations of its Travelling PostOffice showing how mail was collected anddropped off at speed – quite a spectacle! In addition, the NVR is famed for its Santa Specials– the first heritage railway to run such populartrains.

Telephone 01780 784444 www.nvr.org.uk

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NENE VALLEYRAILWAY

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LINTON ZOOCAMBRIDGESHIRE'S WILDLIFE BREEDING CENTRE

Spring is without a doubt the zoo keepers’favourite time of year. The zoo gardens arelooking stunning with beds of colourful springflowers, including hundreds of vivid hyacinthsthat will soon be coming up to their best. Thegiant tree ferns are beginning to throw up theirnew fronds and everywhere is becoming greenagain.

If you want a little more than just a zoo visit youcan book in advance a “keeper experience” foradults and children. Introduced last year werethe “Keeper’s Little Helper” designed especiallyfor 5 to 8 year olds and the “Big Cat and LargeMammal Experience” for age 18+, both haveproven very popular. All of these special keeperdays make awesome birthday presents or simplytreat someone special to an experience of a life-time.

Times of activities are displayed on the officialwebsite: www.lintonzoo.com click on news.Check the website for more information or tele-phone: 01223 891308.

Tracy meets the Amur tigers in the BigCat & Large Mammal Experience

Adult keeper experiences meeting the Brazilian tapirs Signpost - page 23

View it Langham Glass was established in 1979 byMaster Glassmaker Paul Miller and his aim is tomake modern glass by hand to the higheststandard of craftsmanship. Experience a fasci-nating demonstration of glass making withinformative live commentary. Watch as moltencrystal is transformed using age old, traditionalmethods into the antiques of the future.

Make it * Create your own glass masterpiece alongsidethe experienced glassmakers. (Over 16’s only andbooking essential). £49.50 per person. * Have your child’s hand cast in glass as amemento of your day or why not keep as a giftfor that someone special. Prices start at £25.00. * Finally let your child paint their very own pieceof glass or even have a go yourself. £5.95 perperson.

Enjoy itToys and Games from the Past. Whether you are6 or 66 why not enjoy their range of delightfultoys and games, such as marble runs, woodenpuzzles and bagatelle.

Buy itIn the Factory shop there is a great range ofboth 1st quality signed glass together with greatvalue factory seconds too. Lots of other gifts arestocked and feature many made in Norfolk,

including a selection for the children. Glassengraving is now available or shop online atwww.langhamglass.co.uk

Finally, take a break and relax in the tearoomover a light lunch or one of the delicious home-made cakes and coffee – the perfect way toreflect on your visit……

Telephone 01485 529111www.langhamglass.co.uk

LANGHAM GLASS

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SHEPRETH WILDLIFE PARK

Shepreth Wildlife Park was celebrating back inNovember after the successful removal of atumour from their tiger Amba, who is nowrecovering well, but the good news didn’t endthere. The team at Shepreth also heard not onlyhad they won Best Education Project: schoolsand educational institutions at the 2010 BIAZAAwards, but also won Large Visitor Attraction ofthe Year at the 2010 Regional Enjoy EnglandAwards for Excellence.

Dr Miranda Stevenson, Director of BIAZAsaid: “The award-winning programmes show-cased today demonstrate the huge investment ofenergy and resources made by our leading zoosto improve animal welfare and raise environ-mental awareness. These awards recognise andcelebrate the vital contributions that our mem-bers are making to conservation and educationeach year.”

“We have been simply over-whelmed this week,we were so delighted to hear we had won theBIAZA award for education. Lainie works tire-lessly to provide all schools with a fun anddynamic way to learn about the natural world, soshe truly deserves this recognition. Then to winthe very next day at the Regional Enjoy EnglandAwards for Excellence was just sensational! Theteam at Shepreth are exceptionally passionateabout their jobs, and this reaffirms that what wedo to conserve and educate our visitors is worth-while and obviously works!” Rebecca Willers,Animal manager, “But of course, for us the realaward was seeing our beautiful tiger fit and wellagain.”

So there couldn’t be a better time to visitShepreth Wildlife Park, especially with the recentlaunch of the cost-saving ‘Season Tickets’ andAdoption Packages, all available from the infor-mation packed website at :www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk.

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Amba’s winter coat

The Mid-Norfolk Railway Preservation Trustwas established in 1995 with the aim of buyingand restoring the then-disused line between theNorfolk market towns of Dereham andWymondham. We currently own 28km (17.5miles) of track and trackbed through centralNorfolk's most attractive countryside, making usone of the largest preserved railways in the UKtoday.

The line is operational between Dereham andWymondham, and the Trust owns the disusednorthern section from Dereham as far as CountySchool. The line is intact (although derelict) asfar as North Elmham, and a further mile oftrack will need to be re-laid in order to reachCounty School. The long-term aim is to reach asfar as Fakenham.

In addition to the passenger services toWymondham, they also run fairly regular com-mercial freight trains, as well as the occasionalrailtour. These result in a wide variety of loco-motives visiting Dereham from the main linefrom time to time, in addition to the fleet of her-itage diesel locos.

Many people are surprised to learn that the rail-way is entirely volunteer-run. The volunteers getup to a wide variety of tasks, including drivingthe trains, maintaining the track and lineside, get-ting greasy inside engines, and many other inter-esting jobs besides.

The rate of progress in restoring and upgradingthe railway has been very rapid over the last fewyears. Current projects are aimed at improvingthe railway's infrastructure, including track andsignalling. In particular, they are working onbuilding the first signal box, which will controlthe yard at Dereham; and they are busy restoringthe line north of Dereham to operational condi-tion. They have restored Dereham Station to itsformer glory, and installed run-round loops atDereham and Wymondham. Future plansinclude the building of a passing loop atThuxton, and the provision of further signalboxes.

Telephone 01362 690633www.mnr.org.uk

MID NORFOLKRAILWAY

9466 at Hardingham

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Award-winning Imperial War Museum Duxfordtakes you on an unforgettable journey throughthe history of aviation, in times of war andpeace.

Set in the beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside,atmospheric Duxford is a living, breathing avia-tion museum. It is the best preserved SecondWorld War Royal Air Force airfield in the world.

Whatever your interest, there is something atDuxford to inspire you, be it the Blackbird – thehighest-flying aircraft ever – or the legendarySpitfire.

Step back in time in exhibition Hangar 4: Battleof Britain where the sights and sounds of theaerial battle enable you to fully experienceBritain’s ‘finest hour’. In the restoredOperations Room, still tucked behind its originalblast-walls, listen to a recreation of an air raid onDuxford in 1940.

These fascinating exhibitions are brought vividlyto life through the stories of the many men andwomen who contributed towards Duxford’s his-tory and the transformation of aviation

The American Air Museum is built around oneof the biggest aeroplanes that you will ever see,the B-52 Stratofortress, an awe-inspiring pres-ence at Duxford.

Equally stunning is Imperial War MuseumDuxford’s newest exhibition, AirSpace, whichtells the story of British and Commonwealthaviation whilst surrounding you with 30 of themost iconic aircraft produced, including thefastest-ever Concorde.

Duxford is huge and with over 10 acres under-cover, it delivers a wonderful day out for all,

whatever the weather. Keep an eye on the sky,as you may well see some historic aircraft inflight.

The Museum is open daily except 24, 25 and 26December. Facilities include a restaurant, twocafes, visitor centre with a souvenir shop, out-door picnic tables and children’s play area.

Imperial War Museum Duxford is just south ofCambridge at junction 10 of the M11motorway,approximately 40 minutes from the M25 and 10minutes away from Cambridge city. Ample freeparking is available.

Throughout the year the Museum holds airshows, exciting events, family activities, talks andtours and much more.

2011 Air Show Dates:

Spring Air Show, Sunday 22 MayFlying Legends, Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 JulyThe Duxford Air Show, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4SeptemberAutumn Air Show, Sunday 16 October

Email: [email protected]: www.iwm.org.uk/duxfordTelephone: +44 (0)1223 835 000

IMPERIAL WARMUSEUM DUXFORD

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County Signpost

Air Shows at Imperial War Museum Duxford

Battle of Britain Exhibition

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Located in the heart of Cambridge, and occupy-ing an extraordinary historic building housingalmost half a million objects, the FitzwilliamMuseum has been hailed as ‘the finest smallmuseum in Europe’ – and admission is com-pletely free.

Founded in 1816, the Museum houses theUniversity of Cambridge’s extensive collectionof art and antiquities. From Egyptian coffins toImpressionist masterpieces; illuminated manu-scripts to Renaissance sculpture; rare coins andmedals to Oriental applied arts - these world-class collections of art and antiquities span cen-turies and civilizations.

Visitors can discover a world-class collection ofpaintings, drawings and prints boasting work byTitian, da Vinci, van Dyck, Ruebens, Breughel,Rembrandt, Canaletto, Dürer and Constable,with masterworks of French Impressionism byMatisse, Degas, Monet and Renoir and Pre-Raphaelite treasures by Millais, Rossetti andHolman Hunt. The Fitzwilliam also presents artfrom the 20th and 21st centuries, including workby Pablo Picasso, Paul Nash, Stanley Spencer,and Howard Hodgkin. Elsewhere within theMuseum, the superb antiquities collection rangesfrom Ancient Egyptian sarcophagi and funeraryfigurines to Roman sculpture, including Greekvases, mosaic, and artefacts from AncientCyprus and Nubia.

THE FITZWILLIAMMUSEUM, CAMBRIDGE

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County Signpost

The Fitzwilliam contains an extraordinary col-lection of manuscripts, including beautiful andrare medieval illuminated books from the MiddleAges, as well as literary manuscripts by Keatsand Hardy and original musical scores by Mozartand Handel. A striking collection of coins andmedals is also on offer, from the very earliestexamples to contemporary art medals, as well asoutstanding collections of Oriental and appliedarts, with pottery, porcelain, and one of the mostsignificant collections of Korean ceramics out-side South-East Asia. Visitors can also pay avisit to see the Sculpture Promenade on thelawns outside the Museum. This unique, annual-ly-changing display, set against the imposingbackdrop of the Museum’s neo-classical archi-tecture, showcases contemporary sculpture bysome of the most accomplished artists workingtoday.

The Fitzwilliam Museum is the perfect place fora family day out, with year-round activities,workshops and trails for visitors of all ages –often completely free. The first Saturday ofevery month is ‘Family First Saturday’ at theFitzwilliam, when families can visit the Fitz

Family Welcome Point and collect drawing mate-rials, activities and trails to use throughout theMuseum. Families can also pick up a free‘FitzKit’ activity box all year round from theentrance desks, containing drawing materials andactitivies to lead younger visitors on an excitingtrail around the Museum’s galleries. For adults,the Museum offers a wide range of activities,including free lunchtime talks, curators’ toursand workshops from printmaking to calligraphy,led by experts.

Visitors to the Fitzwilliam Museum can take abreak from the galleries in our peacefulCourtyard Café, where a tempting variety offood and drink, from coffee and cake to fillinghot dishes. The adjacent Courtyard Shop is atreasure trove of striking and unusual gifts for allages, offering postcards, greetings cards, calen-dars, posters, books, cards, stationary, crockery,scarves, distinctive jewellery and more.

Telephone 01223 332900www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

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The Boat Shed houses the larger exhibitsincluding Maria, a Lateener, “the fastest racingyacht on the Broads in the 19th. century”, an“Airborne Lifeboat” designed by Uffa Fox, thefamous yacht designer, many of which werebuilt at Potter Heigham and saved the lives ofnumerous aircrew in W.W.2.

Outside, under covered areas, is a collection ofsignificant boats, including a Commissioners’Launch, a fore-runner of those policing theBroads nowadays for the Broads Authority, oneof the early wooden Wayfarer dinghies built inWroxham, and a unique “Weed Cutting” boat.

There is also a Victorian “gentleman’s steamlaunch”, built for the owner of Lacon’s Breweryin Gt. Yarmouth. Now restored, she is availablefor trips on the river on Tuesdays, Wednesdaysand Thursdays, plus private hire for special occasions.

There are approximately 50 volunteers whoeither man reception or carry out all the refur-bishment and domestic maintenance of thebuildings and their precious contents. Over thelast few years they have made major improve-ments to the site, for both the collections andvisitors, including the addition of audio guides.

For details visit the website: www.museumofthebroads.co.uk

The Museum is open daily from Easter to theend of October from 10.30am-5pm.


In 1966 a small group of enthusiastic peopleconcerned over the possible loss of any record,in words or artefacts, of the history of TheNorfolk and Suffolk Broads, decided to establisha museum.

The original President and Chairman are still inpost and as enthusiastic and active as ever today.There is a large band of “Friends” who supportThe Museum who live both locally and alsospread all over Britain.

It was housed, until 2000, at Potter Heigham inone the old Herbert Woods boat sheds, thenmoved to The Poors Staithe at Stalham.

The main Wherry and Marshman buildings arein what were warehouses for the goods carriedby the trading wherries from Great Yarmouth,housing a faithful life-size reproduction of a“cuddy” in which the wherrymen lived on boardtheir boats. The office was added at some timeas a shop to sell domestic goods to the wherry-men, now the reception area, tea room and shopfor the modern visitorsThe Marshman’s Building is dedicated to thelives and crafts of these men and the products oftheir labours, “the best thatching reed in theworld”. The drainage of the land by windpumps, and later works to improve the waterquality are also illustrated, along with examplesof local wild-life.

The Discovery Building contains a time-line put-ting the development of The Broads in its his-torical context. There are several hands-on mod-els to demonstrate how bits of boats work,alongside painting and colouring equipment forthe younger visitors to use. Also a video is run-ning giving the evolutionary history of the earlybroads, explaining how it was discovered thatthey were man made.

MUSEUM OF THE

BROADS

County Signpost

Falcon trip at Hunsett Mill

Inside the Boatshed

The Folk Museum was set up in 1936 by leadingmembers of the town and university with theaim 'to interest the ordinary citizen in aspects oflocal social life which were fast disappearing inCambridgeshire', an ethos which is still heldtoday.

The museum is housed in a 17th-century timber-framed building, which was formerly the WhiteHorse Inn for 300 years.

The wonderful and varied collections are dis-played in nine room settings including the bar,the kitchen, the fens and folklore room and theplayroom. Each room is filled with intriguingobjects, some dating back to the 1600s, as well asfamiliar household items.

These displays come to life with the temporaryexhbitions, which encourage visitors to explore

life in the past.

OpenTues - Sat 10.30am - 5pm Sun 2pm - 5pm Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays (2 - 5pm)and pre-booked groups. Last admission 4.30pm

Admission ChargeAdults: £3.50 Concessions: £2.00 Children (5 - 12 yrs): £1.00 (1 child free withevery paying adult

Cambridge Museum ofTechnology

The Old Pumping Station Cheddars LaneCambridge CB5 8LD Tel: 01223 368650 [email protected] www.museumoftechnology.com/

Victorian Pumping Station and WorkingMuseum. Based in the original sewage pumpingstation for Cambridge, the Museum ofTechnology exists to preserve and exhibit mate-rial that is relevant to the Cambridge area, eitherby its use or its invention. The collectionsinclude: •The pumping station's original equipment andother engines. •A number of products manufactured by W.G.Pye of Cambridge. •Letterpress-printing equipment ranging fromearly hand operated presses to power machinery. •Instruments from Cambridge InstrumentCompany. •Information and artefacts from local industries.

Opening timesThe museum is open, but not in steam

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Cromwell Museum Grammar School Lane Huntingdon PE29 3LF [email protected] www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/cromwell

Oliver Cromwell is one of the most famousnames in our history. He became the LordProtector, the head of a British Republic. TheCromwell Museum tells his story, located in theold grammar school in Huntingdon, the townwhere he was born. The collection includes por-traits and objects associated with Cromwell,including many on loan from his descendants.

Open all year April – October Tues-Sun10.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 4pmJanuary – March November – December Tues –Fri & Sun 1.30-4pmClosed on Bank Holidays except Good Friday,and on 24th – 28th December.Free Admission

Burwell Museum Mill CloseBurwell CambsCB5 0HL01638 [email protected] www.burwellmuseum.org.uk

Burwell Museum is a rural history museumdepicting life through the centuries on the edgeof the Cambridgeshire fens, includes an early19th century windmill.

Open Easter Sunday to Last Sunday in October Opening times 2 - 5pmThursdays, Sundays & Bank HolidayMondays

Admission ChargeAdults (over 16 years) - £3.00. Under 5s - FREEChildren (5-16 years) - £1.00. Season ticketsavailable

Cambridge and County FolkMuseum

2/3 Castle StreetCambridgeCB3 0AQ Tel:01223 355159 [email protected] www.folkmuseum.org.uk

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County Signpost

CAMBRIDGESHIRE’SMUSEUMS

Cordwainer

Cambridge Museum of Technology

is the history centre for the Isle of Ely & theFens and it takes you on a journey through timefrom prehistory to the twentieth century.

Displays include original prison cells, fossils thatcan be touched, Roman remains and an archivefilm of the Fens including punt guns and eelcatching.

A museum guide, children's guide to the gal-leries, toilets and a gift shop make this an idealdestination for all of the family.

Summer Opening TimesMonday — Saturday10.30am — 5.00pmSunday 1.00pm — 5.00pmWinter Opening TimesMonday — Saturday* 10.30am — 4.00pmSunday 1.00pm — 4.00pm*closed on Tuesdays except for school andgroup bookings

Admission ChargeAdults £3.50Concessions £2.50Up to 4 children (16 yrs and under) FREE witheach paying adult.

Farmland Museum and DennyAbbey

Ely Road WaterbeachCambridge CB25 9PQ Tel: 01223 860988 [email protected] www.dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk

The Museum collects, preserves and displayssocial history artefacts and agricultural machin-ery related to the history of ruralCambridgeshire.

Opening times 1st April – 31st October 12 noon -5pm week-days10.30am-5pm weekends and Bank Holidays

Admission ChargeAdults £4.00, Events days £5.00Concessions £3.00. Events Days £4.00Children £2.00. Events Days £3.00Family tickets £10.00Events Days £15.00Entrance is FREE for children under 5

March & District Museum High Street March PE15 9JJ Tel: 01354 655300 [email protected] www.marchmuseum.co.uk/

March Museum is a volunteer run local folkmuseum with displays showing the life and timesof the late 19th and early 20th century. It ishosed in the old Girls Grammar school erectedin 1851. In 1976 the building was purchased byMarch Town Council to be used as a museumwhich opened in 1977.

Opening Hours Wednesday and Saturday 10.30am – 3.30pmAll year except Christmas and New YearEntry to the Museum is free however donationsare much appreciated.

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Easter to October - Every Sunday 2-5pmNovember to Easter - 1st Sunday in month 2-5pm

Admission ChargeNon steam days - Adults £3 Children under 7and concession £1.50 Steam Days – Adults £5 Children under 7 andconcessions £3.00

Chatteris Museum 14 Church LaneChatteris PE16 6JA Tel: 01354 696319 [email protected]://www.chatterismuseum.org.uk/

Chatteris Museum is a small local museum con-centrating on the town of Chatteris and the sur-rounding Fenland area.

The Chatteris museum collection was first start-ed in 1942 as a result of an interest in local his-tory by Mr Charles Dobb, then clerk to thecouncil. Initially his little collection was housedin a small glass cabinet in the old Urban DistrictCouncil offices in Grove House, but the collec-tion continued to grow. In 1963 a complete room full of display cabinetswas officially opened as Chatteris Museum.Eventually the museum took over the middlefloor of Grove House and before long therewere enough exhibits to fill 4 rooms.

In 1995 the museum moved to its present loca-tion into what had been the doctors’ surgery inChurch Lane and it shares the building withChatteris Town Council.

Opening times Summer (Easter to end of October)Thursdays - 2 – 4.30 pmSaturdays - 10 am – 1 pm

Winter (End of October to Easter)Thursdays - 2 – 4 pmSaturdays - 10 am – 12 noon

Closed Christmas and New Year

Entry Free

Ely Museum The Old GaolMarket Street Ely CB7 4LS Tel: 01353 666655 [email protected] http://www.elymuseum.org.uk/

Ely Museum, a bright and friendly local historymuseum, located in the Bishop's Gaol in thecentre of the historical city of Ely. The Museum

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County Signpost

Chatteris Museum

Ely Museum

Farmland Museum

Ramsey Rural MuseumWood LaneRamseyHuntingdonCambsPE26 2XDTel: 01487 [email protected] www.ramseyruralmuseum.co.uk/

The Ramsey Rural Museum, housed in 17th century farm buildings, is set in open country-side on the edge of a friendly market town. Sowhy not step back in time and find out how lifewas lived in small fenland community.

On site there are many areas showing a variety ofmachinery, implements and vehicles spanning200 years of rural life.

Our exhibits and displays depict: past workingmethods, occupations, trades and traditionalfarming techniques, such as cutting peat, diggingditches, thatching and being a Blacksmith.

Opening times April until end of October Thursdays 10 am to 5pm Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays 2pm to5pm Other times by appointment

Admission Charge£4.50 Adults £3.50 Concessions £2.50 Children Children under 5 FREE FAMILY TICKET £12.00 (2 Adults & 2Children 5-14 inclusive)

Royal Anglian RegimentMuseum

Duxford AirfieldDuxfordCambridge, CB2 4QRTel: 01223 [email protected] www.royalanglianmuseum.org.uk/

The Museum is designed to inform the publicabout the Regiment's history and accomplish-ments by collecting, recording and conservingitems associated with the Regiment in attractive,up-to-date displays.

The Royal Anglian Regiment is the Regiment ofthe ten Counties of East Anglia and the EastMidlands and was the first Large Regiment ofInfantry in the British Army.

The Museum covers the history of the East andRoyal Anglian Regiments since the amalgama-tions of the former County Regiments from1958-60.

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The Norris Museum The BroadwaySt Ives CambridgeshirePE27 5BXTel: 01480 497314 [email protected] www.norrismuseum.org.uk/

The Norris Museum is the museum ofHuntingdonshire. It tells the story of this his-toric County from earliest times to the presentday.

Opening timesMay – September Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 5.00pmSunday 2.00-5.00pm

October to AprilMonday to Friday 10.00-4.00pmSaturday 10.00an -1pm

Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, BoxingDay and New Years Day.

Admission FREE

Octavia Hill BirthplaceMuseum

1 South Brink PlaceWisbech PE13 1JETel: 01945 476358 [email protected] www.octaviahill.org/

The Birthplace House was built in about 1740on Wisbech’s South Brink. As a Grade II* listedbuilding, it is particularly important as a buildingof outstanding architectural or historic interest.The museum celebrates the life and legacy ofOctavia Hill, conservationist, artist, socialreformer, writer and teacher.Please see website for opening hoursAdmission ChargeAdults £3.50Concessions £2.50 (senior citizens and NationTrust Members)Children £1.50Family ticket £8.00 ( 2 full paying adults and 2children)

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County Signpost

Ramsay Rural Museum

Display at Royal Anglian Regiment Museum

Victorian School Session at the museum

Middle Ages potter Jim Newboult demonstrates hiscraft in the Museum's attractive riverside garden.

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Opening hours:Summer – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

During the winter, apart from a few selecteddates, the Museum Gallery in Land Warfare willbe closed.

The Museum office at Duxford will remain openfor enquiries during this time.

Admission:Admission to the Museum is free after paying toenter the Duxford complex, which is open sevendays each week.

St Neots Museum The Old Court8 New Street St NeotsPE19 1AE Tel: 01480 214163 [email protected] www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk/

A lively local museum tells the story of this busymarket town on the River Ouse, from prehis-toric times to the present day.Opening timesFebruary, March Wednesday – Saturday10.30am-4.30pmApril to December Tuesday to Saturday10.30am-4.30pm last admission 4pm Closed January

Admission ChargeAdults £2.00 Children 5-16, concessions £1.00FREE for residents of St Neots

Stained Glass Museum The South TriforiumEly Cathedral Ely CB7 4DL 01353 [email protected] www.stainedglassmuseum.com/

The Stained Glass Museum offers a uniqueinsight into the fascinating story of stained glass,an art-form that has been practised in Britain forat least thirteen hundred years.

Opening timesDaily at the following timesSummerMonday to Friday -10.30 - 5.00Saturday - 10.30 - 5.30Sunday - 12 noon - 6.00Winter(from 28 October When Clocks go back, toEaster)Monday to Friday - 10.30 - 5.00Saturday - 10.30 - 5.00Sunday - 12 noon - 4.30Last admissions are 30 minutes before closing

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County Signpost

Admission ChargeAdults £3.50Concessions £2.50Family group £7.00(up to 4 must include 1 child under 16)Joint Admission TicketsJoint Admission Tickets are available for theCathedral and the Museum.Adults £8.70Concessions £7.00

The Museum of FenlandDrainage - Prickwillow Trust

Main Street, Prickwillow Ely CB7 4UN Tel: 01353 688360 [email protected] www.prickwillow-engine-museum.co.uk/

The museum is a registered educational charity,primarily concerned with the history of theunique landscape of the fens and the principlesof drainage which created it over the course ofseveral centuries.

Opening Times April & October : Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays : 11:00 to16:00May 1st to September 30th : Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, Sunday : 11:00 to16:30

Admission Charge

Whittlesey Museum Town Hall Market Street WhittleseyPE7 1BD Tel: 01733 840968www.whittleseyweb.co.uk/museum.htm

Whittlesey Museum, housed on the ground floorof the 19th Century Town Hall in Market Street,was opened in 1976.

The Costumes Room was once used to housethe town's horse drawn fire engine. Otherrooms in the museum are formed from whatwas once the brick floored caretaker's cottage.They lend themselves to static displays such asour current scene of a Village Post Office set inthe 1950's. Other displays include brick-making,toys from the turn of the century, local archaeo-logical finds, information on local commemora-tives and Sir Harry Smith.

Outside in the museum's courtyard can be founda forge and wheelwright's bench, wash day arte-facts and agricultural tools.

A life size model of the Straw Bear and anextensive collection of old photographs display-ing Whittlesey scenes from the past can also befound. The museum is run by volunteers work-ing on behalf of the Whittlesey Society.

Opening hoursFriday 2.30-4.30pmSaturday 10.00am-12.00noonSunday 2.30-4.30pmAdmissionAdults 50p Children 20p

STANDARD EVENTS/RUN DAYS

ADULTS £3.00 £4.00

CHILDREN (6-16)

£1.00 £1.50

SENIOR CITIZENS £2.00 £3.00

FAMILY £6.00 £10.00

Prickwillow

Stained Glass Museum


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ELYEly is very proud of it's connection with eels asthe name Ely is derived from the Isle of Eelswhen the city was surrounded by water andmarshland. Eels are still caught in the RiverGreat Ouse. Smoked eels, now considered a del-icacy can be purchased on Ely's award winningFarmers Market and dishes such as eel stew andeel pie can be regularly be found on several ofthe city's restaurant menus.

Nestled in the Fen countryside, Ely makes anideal destination for a day visit or short breaklocation. As the second smallest city in England,Ely is a hidden gem, which is often remarkedupon by our many visitors. It is compact enoughto ensure that nowhere is too far to walk to, yetexpansive enough to fill a full day and more.

For your day visit to Ely your first port of callwould be the medieval Cathedral that dominatesthe landscape for miles around with it's famousOctagon tower. Whilst in the Cathedral be sureto visit the Stained Glass Museum situated in theSouth Triforium offering a colourful experienceof a stunning collection of stained glass and isthe only one of its kind in the country.

Ely's most famous resident is Oliver Cromwelland you will have the opportunity to visit theonly remaining home of Oliver Cromwell withthe exception of Hampton Court Palace inLondon. The former Lord Protector lived with

his family in Ely for just over 10 years and thehouse has been transformed to give you aninsight into 17th century life. Audio tours bringthe story of this fascinating building to life. Thehouse also doubles up as a Tourist InformationCentre.

For learning about Ely's past the Ely Museum issituated just two minutes from the Cathedral. Atthe museum you will discover the story of Elyfrom prehistoric times to the twentieth century.The museum is housed in the city's former Gaol.

The riverside is also a hot spot for visitors wish-ing to relax and enjoy an afternoon tea or take aboat trip or even browse through the threestorey Antiques Centre. Whilst at the riversidewe strongly recommend that you follow thecity's heritage public art Eel Trail that is an excel-lent way of seeing the historic city at it's best.This circular walk, self-guided by brass way mak-ers takes you past the oldest parts of Ely incor-porating the beautiful riverside area and awardwinning Jubilee gardens.

Group Tours Advisor 01353 616397 or Cromwell’s House 01353 662062www.visitely.org.uk

Cromwell’s House

CAMBRIDGESHIREWILDLIFE TRUST

There is a fantastic and varied selection ofreserves from marvellous wetlands, flower-richmeadows and ancient woodlands. In fact thereare 46 in Cambridgeshire to choose from! Allof the reserves are free to visit and offer a vari-ety of different animals and habitats.

Here’s a small selection of Wildlife Trustreserves to visit in Cambridgeshire :

Grafham Water: an expanse of open water, sur-rounded by wetlands, grasslands and ancientwoods, managed with Anglian Water. Thereserve, near Huntingdon, is great for bird-watching with a good change of spotting birdsranging from ospreys, black terns and greylaggeese.

Brampton Wood: the second largest ancientwoodland in Cambridgeshire. The woodland,near Huntingdon is at least 900 years old andoffers the chance to see the rare black hairstreakbutterflies and dormouse.

Great Fen: The Great Fen Project - one of themost exciting habitat restoration projects everundertaken in Britain - will create a 3,700 hectarewetland between Huntingdon and

Peterborough. This will be achieved by obtain-ing land adjacent to two existing NationalNature Reserves, Holme Fen and WoodwaltonFen. Connecting these two vitally importantnature reserves will provide a haven for wildlifeand create a massive green space for people,opening new opportunities for recreation, edu-cation and business. This project is a partner-ship of the Environment Agency,Huntingdonshire District Council, Middle LevelCommissioners, Natural England and theWildlife Trust.

Many wildlife species and habitats have disap-peared over the past 50 years. The Trust is work-ing not just to protect what remains, but also toincrease the numbers and diversity of native wildplants and animals in our countryside. They arenot content with protecting what is left toomuch has already been lost instead they want toput something back.

Visit www.wildlifebcnp.org or http://twitter.com/wildlifebcnp

To find out more about becoming a membertelephone 01954 713543 or email the member-ship team at [email protected].

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Graffam Water © Pat Doody

Family FunPensthorpe is a great place to get childreninvolved in wildlife and the great outdoors. Notonly is there a huge variety of birds and wildlifeto spot, but families can choose from a range ofactivities to engage everyone whatever their age.

Feed the birds at one of our specialist locations,or try your hand at pond dipping to discover justhow much fun is to be had in the countryside.

The new activity booklet encourages children toexplore the reserve and find out more about theplants, birds, animals and insects. Stamping sta-tions posted throughout designated trails coaxchildren's curiosity, whether you choose to fol-low the creepy-crawlies on the Bug Walk Trail,or the excitement of the Wildlife Tracker Trail.

Or if something a little less energetic is yourthing, the Wensum Discovery Tour* allows youto explore the reserve from the comfort of our-specially designed Land Rover and trailer. With

up to four guided tours each day, there is ampleopportunity to take advantage of the expertknowledge of our wardens.

*Seasonal Attraction, additional charge applies

What's HerePensthorpe is not just a great way to get close tonature and learn more about wildlife and conser-vation. There are plenty of opportunities toenjoy a little retail therapy too. Our superb giftshop offers some delightful and unusual optionsfor presents that are so nice you won't want togive them away. Or just indulge yourself com-pletely in our newly refurbished Courtyard Café,whether you fancy a tasty light snack, a scrump-tious cream tea or a delicious, full lunchtimemeal.

Telephone 01328 851465www.pensthorpe.com

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Discover - Wildlife, FamilyFun Stunning Gardens, GreatShopping & Home CookedFood

There are so many ways to enjoy the beautifulsurroundings here at Pensthorpe, a reservefamous for hosting BBC Springwatch. Whetheryou want to explore the great wildlife walks,learn about our conservation projects, indulge ina spot of retail therapy, take lunch in ourCourtyard Café, or just enjoy some of the bestlocal gardens and birdlife for miles around, thereis something to suit every taste.

Wildlife

Pensthorpe takes it role as the 'Natural Centre ofNorfolk' very seriously: supporting a wide rangeof conservation activities, and addressing theparticular problems faced by a number ofendangered and vulnerable species. RedSquirrels, Corncrakes, Cranes and other rarebirds have all benefited from assistance from thePensthorpe Conservation Trust (PCT), a regis-tered charity based on the reserve.

GardensFrom the structural beauty of the MillenniumGarden, to the lush foliage in the Wave Garden;the habitat-specific Wildlife Habitat Garden andthe more subtle, traditionally-managed floodplain of the Wildflower Meadow, Pensthorpe isable to provide year round colour and interest.

PENSTHORPE

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Pensthorpe Mill Garden

Pensthorpe tracker trail

Jo Artherton, BeWILDerwood’s MarketingManager, said: “2011 is set to be an exciting yearfor BeWILDerwood. We’re well known as anactive, outdoorsy family destination and nowwe’re in a position to establish the educationalside of the park, particularly as last year TomBlofeld published A BeWILDermuddle, thethird and latest book in the BeWILDerwoodseries. We want children to be inspired and moti-vated both physically and mentally, and we aimto further bring to life the magic ofBeWILDerwood”.

In 2011 there will be popular annual events suchas BeWILDermum’s Day on 3rd April andBeWILDerdad’s Day, on 19th June. Bring yourmum or dad for free (mums on Mother’s Day,dads on Father’s Day) and make them a specialpresent to take home!

BeWILDerwood is also planning a host of big-ger and more thrilling events than ever before.These include Mildred’s Crocklebog Capersfrom 22nd – 29th August, a celebration of allthings crocklebog; and Snagglefang’s SpookySpectacular from 24th – 30th October, a seri-ously spooktacular event where you can dressup, make magical masks and lanterns and takepart in the mysterious lantern parade at dusk.

Online booking still remains the quickest andeasiest way to enter the park. It means visitors

can book their tickets online, bring a referencenumber with them, and get into the park quick-ly without queuing - a real bonus during thepark’s busiest times.

BeWILDerwood has introduced gift vouchers,which are ideal for birthday presents. And theirAnnual Passes are great value if you are local ora regular visitor – and you can use them to getinto all the events free!

Last year, the park’s on-site shop underwent abig expansion and is now twice the size. It’spacked with fantastic gifts including books, softtoys, sweets, and a new range ofBeWILDerwood branded gifts.

For those with eyes bigger than their bellies,BeWILDerwood has a fantastic selection ofyummy hot and cold food as well as snacks avail-able on the park. All food is organic, where pos-sible, and locally sourced with plenty of healthyoptions too, giving families lots of choice.

With so much more to offer, and the focus firm-ly on environmental and educational issues,BeWILDerwood is perfect for a family day outin 2011.

BeWILDerwood is located in woodland off theA1062 near Wroxham, situated near the beauti-ful surrounding of Hoveton Little Broad.

For more information about BeWILDerwoodand all the events in 2011 visit www.bewilder-wood.co.uk or call 01603 783900.


Magic, mystery, imagination and adventure havealways been the order of the day atBeWILDerwood, the award-winning curioustreehouse adventure park in Norfolk. But thisyear the Twiggles and Boggles have been beaver-ing away to ensure that when the gates swingopen for the year (from February half term19th – 27th) visitors will be treated to even moretreetop family fun and excitement than everbefore.

As much as BeWILDerwood is famous for out-door adventures and safe play, it offers visitors awider cerebral experience where imaginationsrun as WILD as the children (and mums anddads too!)

New for 2011 is daily storytelling on the park(weather permitting). Bold little adventurers canfind out more about the magicalBeWILDerwood world and the fascinating crea-tures who live there. The storytelling sessions arecompletely interactive, giving children thechance to dress up as the characters from thefamous BeWILDerwood books, bringing themystical tales to life right before their very eyes.

Literacy and storytelling have always beenimportant features of the park - creator TomBlofeld first breathed life into the concept ofBeWILDerwood within the pages of his popu-lar books (A Boggle at BeWILDerwood, TheBeWILDerBats, The Ballad of BeWILDerwoodand A BeWILDermuddle). That’s why in 2011we’re celebrating the educational and imaginativeelements of the park, and storytelling willbecome an even more important part of theBeWILDerwood experience.

Also new for 2011 is the Big Hat, a giant hidingplace with a pointy top that’s filled with lots ofhandy places to rest tired feet on splishy, splashywet days.

Aside from the park’s new additions, it remains a‘plastic-free’ environment of magical tree hous-es, zip wires, wobbly bridges, mazes, swing ropesand Toddlewood, three miniature playgroundareas for toddlers. Take a boat across theScaaaaary Lake, try your luck on the TrickyTunnels or slip and slide down the SlipperySlopes. It’s a full day out, inspired by the charac-ters and adventures from the BeWILDerwoodbooks, including Swampy, Mildred theCrocklebog and the Thornyclod Spider.

BEWILDERWOODCounty Signpost

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Many small birds will beforaging in the drier parts ofall these sites, searching forberries, seeds or bugs.These may include birdsthat are rarely seen in ourgardens, such as skylarks,yellowhammers and reedbuntings. Fine days inspring and early summer arerecommended for hearingtheir songs, along with summer migrants, such aswarblers and cuckoos. You can expect to seeand hear common birds too, such as robins,finches and thrushes.

Just over the border into Suffolk is another fab-ulous fenland, at RSPB Lakenheath Fen, whichcomplements those in Cambridgeshire. Thisnature reserve has a small visitor centre, a busyevents programme, and more fantastic birds.

To find out more about these nature reserves,please visit the web site:

www.rspb.org.uk/reserves. You will find direc-tions, including public transport, and moreabout what to expect at each one.

There are two local groups, which meet inCambridge and St Ives, both providing an inter-esting programme of speakers and opportunitiesto see wildlife, and supporting the RSPB in avariety of ways. See www.rspb.org.uk/local-groups for their details. Both welcome visitorsto their meetings.

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The RSPB has four exciting nature reserves inThe Fens and another at Fowlmere, in the chalkysouth west of Cambridgeshire. Fen DraytonLakes, just a few miles northwest of Cambridge,has a jam-packed events programme with some-thing for everyone and many trails to explore.The Ouse Washes and Fowlmere have spacioushides where you can capture the magic of thereserve.

Each of these wetlands is unique, but they alloffer a variety of wildlife and walks, fresh air andantidotes to the hustle and bustle of everydaylife. Put on your warmest clothes and boots andvisit the Washes or Fen Drayton Lakes in winterto see large flocks of water birds, includingswans, ducks and coots against a stunning back-drop.

Fen Drayton Lakes is easy to reach fromCambridge: there is a request stop for theCambridgeshire Guided Bus. It is a great desti-nation at any time of year, and a summer visitwill immerse you in thousands of damselflies,dragonflies and butterflies.

The Ouse Washes is the winterhome for thousands ofwhooper, Bewick’s and muteswans. The swans roost onthe Washes overnight, andflocks can be seen feeding insurrounding farmland by day.Male ducks are at their mostcolourful in winter, trying toattract a mate before the nextnesting season arrives; anothergood reason for getting out ona fine winter’s day.

Peer into the clear chalksprings at Fowlmere and walk trails through thereedbed there, surrounded by the sounds ofbirds, and reeds rustling in the breeze.

THE RSPB INCAMBRIDGESHIRE

Bewick swans at OuseWashes

Family at Ouse Washes

Fen Drayton Lakes

Kettle’s Yard housea beautiful house containing a distinctive collection of modern art

Kettle’s Yard gallerya series of contemporary and modern exhibitions

Kettle’s Yard eventspractical art workshops for all ages, talks, lunchtime and evening concerts and much more

See our website for more details and join our email list to keep up to date

house open: Tuesday-Sunday, SUMMER: 1.30-4.30pm, WINTER: 2-4pm

gallery open: Tuesday-Sunday, 11.30am-5pm

KETTLE’S YARD • admission freeCastle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AQtelephone 01223 748100 • www.kettlesyard.co.uk

A 40 acre oasis just to the south of the City cen-tre, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden isa haven of beautiful gardens & glasshouses, rec-ommended by the RHS Garden Finder as anexceptionally attractive botanic garden and‘essential visiting for any garden lover’.

This heritage-listed Garden was the vision ofProfessor John Henslow, teacher and guidinglight of Charles Darwin, and is today a treasuretrove of over 8,000 plant species, including ninenational collections and the finest arboretum inthe East of England.

The Garden has been designed for both year-round interest and seasonal inspiration. The treecollection forms the structural backbone to the Garden and encloses the plantings to form asecluded green retreat. The magnificent conifers

of the Main Walk create an awe-inspiringavenue, leading in one direction to a beautifulfountain designed by the respected cutler DavidMellor and in the other to a pair of ornate Gates that were originally the entrance to the muchsmaller, city-centre Botanic Garden before it re-opened on its current site in 1846. These lovely Gates were relocated at the end of the19th century.

The Garden is a natural outdoor classroom:guided tours of the seasonal highlights takeplace at 11am every first Saturday of the month(pre-booking advised on 01223 336265 or [email protected]) and drop-in fami-ly workshops are held between 11am-3pm alsoon every first Saturday.

Telephone 01223 336265www.botanic.cam.ac.uk

THE CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITYBOTANIC GARDEN

The Rock Garden overlooks the lake at the Botanic Garden

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Documents

Cambridgeshire & Norfolk Signpost 2011