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E XPLOR E Issue 1 : Summer 2014 Places to go and things to see SUMMER IS HERE AND THERE’S NO BETTER TIME TO COME AND STAY IN ONE OF OUR HOTELS milsoms KESGRAVE HALL Kesgrave Hall is a luxurious retreat for visitors to Suffolk. The spacious bedrooms and vibrant restaurant of this historic Georgian building provide the perfect place to stay, whether you’re passing through to visit the Suffolk Heritage coast, exploring nearby Aldeburgh or Ipswich, or simply looking to relax. Kesgrave Hall, Hall Road, Kesgrave Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 2PU To book call 01473 333741 email: [email protected] THE PIER Located in the heart of old Harwich, The Pier is a classic destination from sunrise to sunset. Make the most of your visit to the coast with a sailing day, dine in either the Harbourside or Ha’penny restaurants or simply take in the captivating views across the confluence of the rivers Stour and Orwell. The Pier, The Quay, Harwich Essex CO12 3HH To book call 01255 241212 email: [email protected] MILSOMS Situated on the Suffolk-Essex border, milsoms in Dedham is the ideal spot to relax and take life at your own pace. Or if you’re looking for places to explore, try a gentle row along the river Stour or discover the life and times of artists John Constable and Sir Alfred Munnings. milsoms, Stratford Road, Dedham Colchester, Essex CO7 6HW To book call 01206 322795 email: [email protected] MAISON TALBOOTH Overlooking the famous Dedham Vale, Maison Talbooth offers guests the perfect Essex escape. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself deep into the heart of Constable Country, or simply relax and unwind in luxurious surroundings, this boutique hotel provides the perfect base. Maison Talbooth, Stratford Road, Dedham, Colchester, Essex CO7 6HN To book call 01206 322367 email: [email protected] Our new format newsletter is therefore unashamedly focused on our accommodation and some of the exciting things to do and see in Essex and Suffolk over the next few months. East Anglia is a fantastic and often underrated part of the country and all our hotels are geographically well placed to make the most of what the area has to offer. There are ideas here of a sporting nature with golf and sailing breaks at Kesgrave Hall and the Pier at Harwich and if you are even more energetic, why not give stand-up paddle boarding a go on the river Stour or enjoy a cycling tour of the Tendring peninsular? Culturally, the reopening of Colchester Castle after a £4 million refit makes it well worth a visit to Britain’s oldest recorded town, as does taking in the new First Site Gallery, Hollytrees museum and the Minories art gallery. In fact for art lovers you may need to stay a few days to really get the most of the region with our links to Constable, Gainsborough and Munnings and the same is true if you’re a music lover as there is a whole series of concerts on offer throughout the summer, both classical and modern. However a lot of our guests come and stay simply because they want a treat and a bit of pampering. A great dinner and a relaxing overnight stay is what we are here for and is reason enough to come and see us, especially as all our gardens and outside dining areas will be looking at their best. Whatever the reason, our teams and I look forward to seeing you soon. Paul Milsom Managing Director for more information or our latest news and offers www.milsomhotels.com - find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube MILSOM HOTELS - THE PERFECT BASE TO EXPLORE EAST ANGLIA - Moorings on the River Stour ELECTRIC PALACE A MUST FOR THE BUCKET LIST page five SOAK UP THE ATMOSPHERE AT THE LATITUDE FESTIVAL page four SIR ALFRED MUNNINGS MUSEUM JUST A GALLOP FROM MILSOMS page six STEP BACK IN TIME AND VISIT COLCHESTER CASTLE page seven

Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

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Explore East Anglia Our new format newsletter is therefore unashamedly focused on our accommodation and some of the exciting things to do and see in Essex and Suffolk over the next few months. East Anglia is a fantastic and often underrated part of the country and all our hotels are geographically well placed to make the most of what the area has to offer. There are ideas here of a sporting nature with golf and sailing breaks at Kesgrave Hall and the Pier at Harwich and if you are even more energetic, why not give stand-up paddle boarding a go on the river Stour or enjoy a cycling tour of the Tendring peninsular? Culturally, the reopening of Colchester Castle after a £4 million refit makes it well worth a visit to Britain’s oldest recorded town, as does taking in the new First Site Gallery, Hollytrees museum and the Minories art gallery. In fact for art lovers you may need to stay a few days to really get the most of the region with our links to Constable, Gainsborough and Munnings and the same is true if you’re a music lover as there is a whole series of concerts on offer throughout the summer, both classical and modern. However a lot of our guests come and stay simply because they want a treat and a bit of pampering. A great dinner and a relaxing overnight stay is what we are here for and is reason enough to come and see us, especially as all our gardens and outside dining areas will be looking at their best. Whatever the reason, our teams and I look forward to seeing you soon. www.milsomhotels.com

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Page 1: Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

EXPLOREIssue 1 : Summer 2014 Places to go and things to see

SUMMER IS HERE AND THERE’S NO BETTER TIME TO COME AND STAY IN ONE OF OUR HOTELS

milsoms KESGRAVE HALLKesgrave Hall is a luxurious retreat for visitors to Suffolk. The spacious bedrooms and vibrant restaurant of this historic Georgian building provide the perfect place to stay, whether you’re passing through to visit the Suffolk Heritage coast, exploring nearby Aldeburgh or Ipswich, or simply looking to relax.

Kesgrave Hall, Hall Road, Kesgrave Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 2PU

To book call 01473 333741 email: [email protected]

THE PIERLocated in the heart of old Harwich, The Pier is a classic destination from sunrise to sunset. Make the most of your visit to the coast with a sailing day, dine in either the Harbourside or Ha’penny restaurants or simply take in the captivating views across the confluence of the rivers Stour and Orwell.

The Pier, The Quay, Harwich Essex CO12 3HH

To book call 01255 241212 email: [email protected]

MILSOMSSituated on the Suffolk-Essex border, milsoms in Dedham is the ideal spot to relax and take life at your own pace. Or if you’re looking for places to explore, try a gentle row along the river Stour or discover the life and times of artists John Constable and Sir Alfred Munnings.

milsoms, Stratford Road, Dedham Colchester, Essex CO7 6HW

To book call 01206 322795 email: [email protected]

MAISON TALBOOTHOverlooking the famous Dedham Vale, Maison Talbooth offers guests the perfect Essex escape. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself deep into the heart of Constable Country, or simply relax and unwind in luxurious surroundings, this boutique hotel provides the perfect base.

Maison Talbooth, Stratford Road, Dedham, Colchester, Essex CO7 6HN

To book call 01206 322367 email: [email protected]

Our new format newsletter is therefore unashamedly focused on our accommodation and some of the exciting things to do and see in Essex and Suffolk over the next few months. East Anglia is a fantastic and often underrated part of the country and all our hotels are geographically well placed to make the most of what the area has to offer. There are ideas here of a sporting nature with golf and sailing breaks at Kesgrave Hall and the Pier at Harwich and if you are even more energetic, why not give stand-up paddle boarding a go on the river Stour or enjoy a cycling tour of the Tendring peninsular?

Culturally, the reopening of Colchester Castle after a £4 million refit makes it well worth a visit to Britain’s oldest recorded town, as does taking in the new First Site Gallery, Hollytrees museum and the Minories art gallery. In fact for art lovers you may need to stay a few days to really get the most of the region with our links to Constable, Gainsborough and Munnings and the same is true if you’re a music lover as there is a whole series of concerts on offer throughout the summer, both classical and modern.

However a lot of our guests come and stay simply because they want a treat and a bit of pampering. A great dinner and a relaxing overnight stay is what we are here for and is reason enough to come and see us, especially as all our gardens and outside dining areas will be looking at their best.

Whatever the reason, our teams and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Paul Milsom Managing Director

for more information or our latest news and offers www.milsomhotels.com - find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

MILSOM HOTELS - THE PERFECT BASE TO EXPLORE EAST ANGLIA

- Moorings on the River Stour

ELECTRIC PALACE A MUST FOR THE BUCKET LIST

page five

SOAK UP THE ATMOSPHERE AT THE LATITUDE FESTIVAL

page four

SIR ALFRED MUNNINGS MUSEUM JUST A GALLOP FROM MILSOMS

page six

STEP BACK IN TIME AND VISIT COLCHESTER CASTLE

page seven

Page 2: Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

THE PIER

The Harbourside restaurant With its splendid panoramic views, The Harbourside has gained a well-deserved reputation as one of the country’s premier seafood restaurants. Arrive by land or sea…the choice is yours!

Ha’Penny Bistro Our informal waterside Ha’Penny Bistro is open all day, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner... or simply call in for the best coffee in Harwich.

MILSOM HOTELS - THE PERFECT BASE TO EXPLORE EAST ANGLIA PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE

Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & RestaurantsMaidstone

Folkestone

DoverKENT

E. SUSSEXWEST SUSSEX

NORFOLK

Norwich Great Yarmouth

SUFFOLK

Harwich

Felixstowe

Aldeburgh

Southwold

Lowestoft

Clacton-on-Sea

Walton onthe Naze

Wickham Market

Stowmarket

Framlingham

Eye

Ixworth

Bungay Beccles

Long Melford

Sudbury

Lavenham

Colchester

Dedham

Chelmsford

Southend-on-Sea

Southminster

Maldon

Braintree

StanstedAirport

BurySt.Edmunds

A14

A14

A12

A12

A12

A130

A131

A134

A143

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A120

A120

M11

M11

M25

M25

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ESSEXHERTFORDSHIRE

CAMBRIDGE

LONDON

A. milsoms KESGRAVE HALL

call: 01473 333741 email: [email protected] nav: IP5 2PU

B. THE PIER

call: 01255 241212 email: [email protected] nav: CO12 3HH

C. MILSOMS

call: 01206 322795 email: [email protected] nav: CO7 6HW

D. MAISON TALBOOTH

call: 01206 322367 email: [email protected] nav: CO7 6HN

for more information or our latest news and offers www.milsomhotels.com - find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTubetwo www.milsomhotels.com three

SIR ALFRED

MUNNINGSMUSEUM

FELIXSTOWEFERRY

GOLF CLUB

FRINTONGOLF CLUB

ANTIQUES

NEWMARKETRACES

- Aldeburgh beach, Suffolk

Classic coastlines, historic landmarks, wide East Anglian skies, beautiful countryside and the very best events

Explore East Anglia

Ipswich

THEELECTRICPALACE

ALL STAYS AT ANY OF OUR HOTELS INCLUDE COMPLIMENTARY SOFT DRINKS IN YOUR ROOM, AS WELL AS FREE WIFI ACCESS AND CAR PARKING AS STANDARD - GIVING YOU EVEN MORE REASONS TO BOOK! AND THIS SUMMER, WE’RE ADDING SKY HD TV TO EVERY ROOM.

EastAnglia

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Kesgrave

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GREAT PLACES TO EAT AT MILSOM HOTELS & RESTAURANTS

LE TALBOOTH RESTAURANT

Established over 60 years ago, Le Talbooth has grown from its quiet tearoom origins into the award-winning restaurant it is today. In an enviable location beside the river Stour, Le Talbooth suits every occasion - from an intimate dinner for two to family celebrations or business functions. Enjoy modern British cooking from an extensive menu, with head chef Andrew Hirst adding a twist of individual style.

There are not many restaurants where you can dine outside while sitting in one county and looking at another. The 15th century building has three individual dining rooms, including the River Room restaurant, which unfurls onto the impressive open air dining space covered by a striking architectural sail.

To book your table at Le Talbooth call 01206 323150

MAISON TALBOOTH

Enjoy a light lunch or fabulous afternoon tea in the Garden Room at Maison Talbooth. This room provides a luxury location with stunning views across the Dedham Vale.

milsoms KESGRAVE HALL

The open-plan kitchen at Kesgrave Hall allows diners to see exactly what goes on in the kitchen. The brasserie-style restaurant spills out onto the terrace, which is covered by a huge architectural sail, allowing guests to dine outside whatever the weather.

As with milsoms there is a no-booking policy and because the restaurant is open all day you can arrive whenever you like and stay for as long as you want.

MILSOMS

Open all day, guests at milsoms can enjoy global dishes as well as daily specials that take full advantage of the local, seasonal produce available throughout the year. The terrace is covered by a gigantic sail, making outside dining a reality most of the year.

Even if you haven’t got time to enjoy an overnight stay during your visit, don’t miss the chance to dine with us. With six restaurants to choose from and a wide selection of menus available, you’re sure to find something that whets your appetite.

We offer a fantastic array of dining options, ranging from the award-winning Le Talbooth to the relaxed brasserie-style at Kesgrave Hall. Whatever your tastes and whatever your needs, we’re sure to have a menu and location that’s perfect for you. See below for a guide to our restaurants.

C

- Above left: Partridge and Victoria plum. Above right: Riverside dining at Le Talbooth This image: Le Talbooth restaurant

Page 3: Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE - CALL KESGRAVE HALL: 01473 333741

MILSOMS KESGRAVE HALL THE PIER

1. Latitude Festival

17th - 20th July 2014 / Henham Park, Southwold, SuffolkThe Latitude Festival is an annual music festival that comprises elements of theatre, art, comedy, cabaret, poetry, politics, dance and literature. This year’s line-up includes the likes of Two Door Cinema Club, Damon Albarn, Bombay Bicycle Club & Haim to name but a few.

2. Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival

27th and 28th September 2014For food lovers, it is a joyful celebration of quality, provenance and flavour. From the sausages to the cider, the bread to the beans, everything you’ll find here has the undeniable added savour that comes from food produced with integrity and care by real people with big characters and stories to tell. But, just as importantly, the festival is a reminder, in its own gentle way, of all the other reasons that local food really matters: the low food miles, the benefits for the regional economy, the wider need to find sustainable ways of putting food on the table.

3. Celebrate Ipswich

11th - 17th August 2014Celebrate Ipswich, which incorporates the fabulous Maritime Festival, is set to be bigger and better than ever with a range of exciting town centre activities and culminating in the Maritime Festival. Following on from the success of the past three years, Ipswich Central and Ipswich Borough Council will again be working in partnership to deliver an event and promotion worthy of East Anglia’s premier waterfront town centre.

4. Ipswich Arts Festival

20th June - 13th July 2014Ip-Art has an exciting programme of visual arts, performing arts, literature, film and music. The annual festival will be across a multitude of venues with more than 70 different events. Every year Ipswich Arts Festival aims to fascinate, delight, intrigue and stimulate, bringing the town alive with culture.

5. East Coast Live

Saturday 28th June 2014 / Chantry ParkThis large open air concert sees the likes of Jessie J, Jason Derulo, Rizzle Kicks, The Saturdays, The Vamps and Union J.

6. McBusted

Sunday 29th June 2014 / Chantry ParkIpswich is the place to be this summer if you are a fan of pop music as McBusted will host a spectacular outdoor live show.The McFly and Busted hybrid super-group will be supported by Backstreet Boys, Scouting for Girls, 5ive and Diversity.

7. The Suffolk Show

28th and 29th May 2014It’s Suffolk’s biggest two day pop-up family event – and this year it is free for 14s and under. Let your children discover and explore everything about food, farming and the countryside and enjoy mesmerising ring displays and entertainment all in one place at Trinity Park. Hundreds of activities and animals are just waiting to be discovered, don’t miss the parrot show and helicopter aerobatic display! Discover why Suffolk is such a fantastic place to live, taste different foods, go shopping and grab some garden inspiration.

5. Redoubt Beer Festival

24th - 27th July 2014The Redoubt Fort is a superb circular fort dating from the Napoleonic era just up the road from the brewery. At the festival they are able to showcase local beers as well as those from other microbreweries, accompanied by great music and food.

6. Harwich Sea Shanty Festival

10th - 12th October 2014The old town of Harwich resounds to the sound of shanties and sea songs over the entire festival weekend, with concerts, pub sessions, workshops, boat trips, music train and street theatre.

Join one of the many and varied workshops teaching anything from playing the bones to writing your own sea shanty and hear shanties from all over the world at one of our evening concerts. The history and heritage of Harwich as part of the British seafaring nation is celebrated, promoted and perpetuated by local people and groups and in 2014, the festival will be concentrating on Harwich’s links with the voyages of the Mayflower and of her Master, Christopher Jones – a Harwich man!

8. Anglo-Saxon Royal Burial SiteThis hauntingly beautiful 255 acre estate, with far-reaching views over the river Deben, is home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Walk around the ancient burial mounds and discover the incredible story of the ship burial of an Anglo-Saxon king and his treasured possessions. Explore the award-winning exhibition, the full-size reconstruction of the burial chamber, stunning replica treasures and original finds from one of the mounds, including a prince’s sword.

There is something for all ages at Sutton Hoo, explore the estate with a seasonal trail, take a tour around the burial mounds with one of our family friendly guides, make your own Sutton Hoo helmet or shield with ‘Get Crafty’ and dress up as an Anglo-Saxon in our award winning exhibition hall.

9. The Ipswich Maritime Festival

15th - 17th August 2014The festival is the culmination of the Celebrate Ipswich event, which includes a range of exciting town centre and waterfront activities. Visitors can take a tour of the River Orwell or enjoy a selection of foods at the continental food market, including fine chocolates, cheeses, cakes, burritos, curries and paella. You can also enjoy great service form an array of local restaurants, bars and retailers – many offering extended opening hours in order to put on additional events and offers to help demonstrate why Ipswich is such a great place to visit.

10. The Southwold Arts Festival

28th June - 5th July 2014The Southwold Arts Festival is a week-long celebration of the Arts, showcasing international, national and local talent in venues in and around the town. The programme will include music, theatre, poetry, visual arts, photography, film, family events, talks, discussions and literature. This diverse programme will offer something for everyone.

Stay at milsoms Kesgrave Hall and enjoy all Suffolk has to offer. Below are just a few ideas. The Pier at Harwich’s coastal location is perfect for discovering Essex.

PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE - CALL THE PIER: 01255 241212

for more information or our latest news and offers www.milsomhotels.com - find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTubefour www.milsomhotels.com five

TIP Stay at Kesgrave Hall (only two minutes from the A12) for a luxury escape and comfort. Better than a tent any day!

TIP Visit Woodbridge - a real hidden gem and only four miles from Kesgrave Hall.

TIP

- Family fun at the Suffolk Show

- Unwind in style at Kesgrave Hall

1. Festival of the Arts

25th June - 6th July 2014The Festival of the Arts is predominantly held in and around Harwich and features various types of exhibitions, activities and events at more than 10 venues. The spectacular Opening Event will see 111 cyclists flowing through the streets of Harwich ringing their bells, blowing their horns and singing. Each year the festival sets out to show Harwich’s intriguing secrets, interesting art and detailed stories, helping to get everyone involved in the event.

2. Discover old HarwichWhen you’re staying at The Pier, leave the car and take a walk around Harwich. The old town is steeped in history - discover the Lighthouses (low and high) or the Tread Wheel Crane, used for over 300 years to bring cargo ashore. Make sure you visit the Redoubt, a Napoleonic circular fort, and don’t miss out on the Lifeboat Museum.

Head to the Ha’penny Pier, which houses the Mayflower Museum and the LV18, which was the last serving light vessel (think Radio Caroline!). Find the house of Christopher Jones, the captain of the Mayflower who lived in Harwich for a while and married a local girl in St Nicholas’s Church in 1593. Chat to the local fishermen who bring in their catch most afternoons, watch the ships sail in and out of Felixstowe Port and the cruise ships departing the ferry terminal.

As you can see, Harwich is rich in maritime history and the hotel can arrange walking tours around the town to enable you to get the most from your visit.

TIP Travel to The Pier at Harwich by train. The evocotively named Mayflower line passes alongside the river Stour from Manningtree.

3. Harwich Electric Palace Cinema

The Electric Palace in Harwich is one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas to survive complete with its silent screen, original projection room and ornamental frontage still intact. Originally opened in 1911, other interesting features include an open-plan entrance lobby complete with paybox, a small stage and dressing rooms, although the latter are now unusable. There is also a former gas powered generator engine with a seven-foot fly wheel situated in the basement.

4. Harwich Sea Festival and Lifeboat Day

Sunday 27th July 2014This annual event is a joint venture organised by the Rotary Club of Harwich and Dovercourt and the Harwich RNLI, with all proceeds going to local charities and organisations in and around the Harwich and Dovercourt areas. There will be a full programme of onshore and offshore events throughout the day, with plenty of fun for all the family including regatta racing, air sea rescue display with Sea King and Lifeboats, R.N.L.I beach lifeguard display, Trinity House buoy yard guided tours, Mayflower Project, LV18, R.N.L.I. Station and the Electric Palace.

TIP Sign up for the Electric Palace programme, www.electricpalace.com and plan your visit to coincide with your favourite film.

- The historic Electric Palace cinema in Harwich

- The Low Lighthouse at Harwich

- Watch the spectacular sunsets from The Pier

Enjoy a glass of bubbly on the terrace and keep an eye out for the family of buzzards who have taken up residence in our woods!

TIP Try crabbing off the jetty opposite The Pier, we always have plenty of lines, buckets and bait, just ask.

Page 4: Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

six www.milsomhotels.com

MILSOMS MAISON TALBOOTHThe stylish milsoms in Dedham provides the ideal base from which to explore East Anglia. With so much to see and do in Essex, enjoy the luxury of a stay at Maison Talbooth.

for more information or our latest news and offers www.milsomhotels.com - find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube seven

- Contemporary rooms at milsoms

- Country house escape at Maison Talbooth

PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE - CALL MILSOMS: 01206 322795 PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE - CALL MAISON TALBOOTH: 01206 322367

1. Beth Chatto Gardens

The Beth Chatto Gardens began in 1960. From an overgrown wasteland with poor gravel soil and boggy hollows, it has been transformed into an informal garden harmonising with the surrounding countryside. The gardens are an inspiration to anyone who visits them - the art of planting at its best.

2. The Essex Way

This 81-mile route begins in Epping, the last stop on the Central Line of the London Underground, and ends at the High & Low Lighthouses of Harwich. Before reaching its finishing point the Essex Way travels from Dedham along the ‘Pennypot’ footpath, through Manningtree, by Wrabness Bell-Cage and through Stour Wood.

3. Colchester Cricket Festival

T20 blasts off in Colchester on the afternoon of Saturday 12th July when Essex Eagles play host to fierce rivals Kent Spitfires in the Battle of the Bridge for the start of the Colchester Cricket Festival, sponsored by Beaumont Seymour. This will be the first time T20 action has taken place at Castle Park, Colchester, marking 100 years of festival cricket in the historic town. This match will kick start the festival week, which takes place from Sunday 13th to Wednesday 16th July as Essex also host Hampshire in the LV= County Championship.

1. Hopkins International Polo

29th June 2014 / Trinity Park Hopkins International Polo returns to Trinity Park for an exciting third year, giving the county a rare chance to watch this game outside of the Home Counties.

As well as watching international sporting action and helpful demonstrations, visitors will be able to enjoy family-friendly entertainment and, for the first time in the event’s history, the unusual and unforgettable spectacle of camel racing!

On the field, an England team will take on Clogau Wales in the Home International test match, followed by the Young Players Challenge Cup between Trinity Park and a local foursome from Stowe School, which boats its own polo team. And for anyone new to the sport, players will be giving an on-pitch demonstration of some of the rules and methods of play with supporting commentary.

2. Tendring Show 2014

12th July 2014 This year’s popular Tendring Show will take place on Saturday 12th July. Attractions and events include an art show, craft and shopper’s marquee, food hall, countryside and conservation area, flower tent and horse and livestock showing rings. A full programme of events operates throughout the day.

3. Kathleen at Le Talbooth

We are lucky to have Kathleen, an electric river boat, with us for the summer. If you’d like to hire her for a leisurely trip along the river Stour to Dedham, just ask. Evan and the team could also pack a hamper for you to enjoy!

4. Colchester Zoo

With over 270 species set in 60 acres of beautiful parkland and lakes, more than 50 daily displays, an undercover soft play area, four adventure play areas, The Lost Madagascar Express road train and so much more...your day out will be action packed. You can get closer to a whole range of animals during your visit, including the unique chance to help feed the elephants and giraffes yourself!

Every year Colchester Zoo offers a fun filled calendar of events including a host of summer late night openings, Shriek Week and the Magic of Christmas, just to name a few. In celebration of the opening of Colchester Zoo’s latest new enclosure ‘Bears of the Rising Sun’, 2014 is Year of the Bear and the zoo will be hosting a number of special events.

5. Sir Alfred Munnings Museum

Castle House is the former home of artist Sir Alfred Munnings (1878-1959) and his wife Violet. The house, grounds, studio and garden café are set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside in the Dedham Vale on the borders of Essex and Suffolk. Described by Munnings as ‘the house of my dreams’, this elegant Tudor and Georgian building is now home to the largest collection of paintings by the artist, who was President of the Royal Academy between 1944 and 1949.

4. Walking in Constable Country

Explore the picturesque Stour Valley and Dedham Vale made famous by the paintings of 18th-century England’s foremost landscape artist.

The Stour Valley Path is a 60 mile walking route following the valley sides of the River Stour. This beautiful route takes you through the fabulous Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire countryside, including Dedham Vale. If you want to explore the area in more detail, there’s also a variety of wonderful walks that will see you venture off the Stour Valley Path. Discover Flatford and Constable Country on foot, taking in the famous Dedham Vale, immortalised in the works of John Constable.

5. Newmarket

The town of Newmarket is completely unique, with a rich and royal history where the thoroughbred racehorse is king. Newmarket is the historic home of racing and can claim to be the greatest horseracing centre in the world. Offering a treasure trove of sights and sounds for the racing enthusiast, quite simply anyone with even just a passing interest in the ‘sport of kings’ should visit Newmarket at least once in their lifetime.

6. Lavenham and Long Melford

Blaze the antique trail and see if you can find yourself a bargain. These two villages, just two miles apart, have an abundance of antique shops and barns. If you know what you’re looking for you could well find it in Hall Street, Long Melford. Lavenham has been described as the “finest medieval town in England” and has more than 300 buildings listed as being of architectural and historical interest, a visit to the Guild Hall in the Market Square is a must.

7. The Pool House at Maison Talbooth

The Pool House at Maison Talbooth is the perfect spot to step back, relax and indulge. Incorporated in the Pool House complex is the swimming pool, complete with outdoor hot tub, decking, covered stoop and log-burning fire. Inside the Pool House there is a dining area, showers, changing areas and an honesty bar. The tennis court, which is located on the upper lawn, has one of the best views in East Anglia as it looks right across the Dedham Vale to Stratford St Mary. These facilities are fully available to guests staying at the hotel.

8. First Site

First Site, the contemporary visual arts centre, opened in 2012 to huge national acclaim. Well worth a visit, the gallery has an ever changing series of exhibitions throughout the year which will appeal to all age groups, with workshops and hands-on exhibits for children as well as adults. The Minories is just around the corner and features exhibitions from MA students at Colchester School of Art.

9. Colchester Castle Museum

Built on the site of the Temple of Claudius, a symbol of Roman power when Colchester was the capital of Britain, Colchester Castle is the largest Norman keep in Europe.

It was constructed around 1080 after William I ordered a royal fortress to be built at Colchester, but for most of its life the castle has been used as a prison - in 1645 ‘Witchfinder General’ Matthew Hopkins appropriated it as a base for interrogating and imprisoning witches. It first opened to the public as a museum in 1860, and it is in that capacity that it continues today. The Castle has been closed for the last two years for a £4 million facelift and re-opens on Friday 2nd May just in time for the bank holiday weekend.

6. Colchester Military Tournament

5th and 6th July 2014 / Abbey FieldThe Colchester Military Tournament is the biggest and best military event that Essex (and the UK!) will have seen. Staged on 35 acres of Abbey Field, near the garrison in Colchester, this two-day show has a jam-packed performance programme including a fly past by a Spitfire of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and a dazzling routine from the Red Devils free-fall parachute team. There is also a re-enactment arena and living history encampment, a range of live music acts and a host of other family-friendly attractions.

7. Dedham Vale Boat Hire

For many years dating back to the 1900s, Dedham has been known as the place to hire a rowing boat. Carrying on that tradition and they have 26 Clinker built rowing boats all for hire from 30 minutes to an hour or more for a leisurely row along the river Stour. Flatford Mill, the mill made famous by John Constable is just a mile-and-a-half row along the river if you are feeling energetic.

8. Cycling in Essex

For a relaxing cycle ride make sure you visit Constable Country in Dedham Vale’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The sublime gently rolling agricultural landscape is broken by Dedham church and the mills and barns that Constable immortalised in the 19th century. These are ideal for exploring by bike, but if you’re looking for something a little more energetic and diverse, then head for Colchester. Britain’s oldest recorded town, today it offers a happy blend of heritage and contemporary atmosphere with a variety of specialist shops, cafés, restaurants and galleries.

TIPYou can walk along the Essex Way to milsoms in Dedham. We’ll even deliver your luggage!

TIP After exploring, relax beside the log fire at the pool house before enjoying dinner at Le Talbooth.

Ask the hotel for a picnic, take a boat and stop in the water meadows for a while.

TIP

Take a trip to Sudbury and discover another famous painter Thomas Gainsborough.

TIP

TIP Complete your indulgent day with a treatment or two in our day spa.

- Painting by Sir Alfred Munnings

- Discover Dedham church

TIPStudy the form guide over breakfast after enjoying a glass of Bucks Fizz in the hot tub by the outdoor pool.

Page 5: Explore East Anglia with Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

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HERE ARE SOME OF THE OFFERS FROM MILSOM HOTELS & RESTAURANTS - TO SEE ALL OUR OFFERS VISIT MILSOMHOTELS.COM

£110 per person £300 per person

£100 per person £350 per person

£300 per person £110 per person

£175 per person from £970

SUMMER’S ON THE WAY! STAY AND SAIL AT THE PIER

MUNNINGS IN DEDHAM ROMANTIC RETREAT

FANTASTIC GOLF BREAK SUMMER’S ON THE WAY!

LAZY SUNDAYS THE PERFECT MINI BREAK

Add even more sunshine to your life over the coming months with a fabulous overnight stay at Kesgrave Hall. Enjoy dinner with free choice from the full menu, overnight accommodation in the best available room and breakfast for just £110 per person.

This offer is based on two sharing and subject to availability. Available Sunday to Friday, from May 1st.

To book please call 01473 333741 or email [email protected]

We’ve teamed up with Viking Mariner to offer a special two night break and sail. The ‘Stay and Sail’ break includes two nights’ bed and full breakfast at The Pier and a day’s sailing on either Viking Blue, a luxury 52 foot yacht, or the catamaran Alchemy.

Sail down the river Orwell to Felixstowe and then off the coast to the Deben or the Walton Backwaters. All your kit is provided as well as coffee, lunch and afternoon tea on board.

To book please call 01255 241212 or email [email protected]

We are lucky to have The Munnings Collection on our doorstep in the village of Dedham. Castle House was bought by Sir Alfred Munnings in 1919 and is now home to the largest collection of paintings by the artist. Stay with us and we’ll include entry to Castle House (open from Wednesday to Sunday afternoons).

Included in this offer is a three course dinner, overnight accommodation and full breakfast.

To book please call 01206 322795 or email [email protected]

A fabulous romantic break that includes a ‘Just the Two of Us’ spa package (double room, two therapists, facial, power direct massage, zen spa deluxe pedicure), three course dinner at Le Talbooth restaurant, overnight accommodation in a deluxe room with full breakfast. Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries waiting for you in your room!

This offer is available Monday to Thursday, subject to availability.

To book please call 01206 322367 or email [email protected]

Within a few minutes of Kesgrave Hall there are two excellent golf courses at Felixstowe Ferry and Woodbridge. This two night break enables you to play on both courses and stay at the hotel. Included are two nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast and two rounds of golf.

This break is available Monday to Friday inclusive. Weekends can be arranged, although we ask you to tee off after 2:00pm on a Saturday and Sunday.

To book please call 01473 333741 or email [email protected]

Escape to the coast this summer with The Pier’s overnight stay offer. Enjoy a delicious cream tea on arrival, followed by a three course dinner with free choice in the Harbourside restaurant, overnight accommodation in the best available room and full breakfast for £110 per person.

This offer is based on two sharing and subject to availability. Available Sunday to Friday, from May 1st.

To book please call 01255 241212 or email [email protected]

Arrive in time for a treatment or two in the Spa, swim in the heated outdoor pool, relax in the hot tub or have a game of tennis. Then enjoy dinner at milsoms before spending the night in one of our fabulous bedrooms with full English breakfast in the morning.

This offer is based on double occupancy, subject to availability.

To book please call 01206 322367 or email [email protected]

Maison Talbooth is perfect for families, with the swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court plus a perfect chance to relax and be pampered in the treatment rooms! It’s just a short drive from the seaside and local boat trips.

Included is three nights’ bed and breakfast in a deluxe room, dinner at Le Talbooth for two (we’ll provide the babysitter), dinner at milsoms for all, an hour’s tennis lesson for everyone and £60.00 towards a spa treatment for mum.

To book please call 01206 322367 or email [email protected]

Milsoms Kesgrave Hall The Pier, Harwich

milsoms Maison Talbooth

Milsoms Kesgrave Hall The Pier, Harwich

Maison Talbooth Maison Talbooth

call 01206 323150 | www.milsomhotels.com/milsomcatering

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