This month we’re celebrating the gems of Cambridgeshire – both lesser known, such as the tucked-away gardens, tiny museums and hidden houses that Charlotte Griffiths discovers as she ventures off the beaten track, and widely loved, as we reveal the winners and highly commended runners-up of this year’s Cambridge Edition People’s Choice Awards! With Easter launching us into April, there are also two seasonal recipes – one savoury from Sarah Bonelle-Lynch, which will make the perfect family meal for that holiday get-together, and one sweet from Esther Sánchez that is sure to tempt children and adults alike. Finally, we dive into home inspiration, with advice on introducing alpines to your outdoor space, a showcase of pastel homewares and a pantry full of kitchen storage ideas.
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LOCAL LIVING DONE WELL
APRIL 2026
VENTURE OFF THE BEATEN TRACK TO DISCOVER SOME OF THE COUNTY’S TUCKED-AWAY TREASURES hidden gems MAKE IT A DOUBLE Folk Festival and Academy of Ancient Music tickets are up for grabs
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MEET THE CHAMPS This year’s People’s Choice Awards winners are revealed!
SPACE SAVERS Harness the power of smart storage solutions in your kitchen
WELCOME
SPRING AWAKENING Welcome to April! This month we’re getting out and about to make the most of every moment of springtime, beginning by shining a light on some of the lesser- known attractions in our area.
EDITORIAL Editor Louise Hoffman 01223 492249
louisehoffman@bright.uk.com Editorial director Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright.uk.com Chief sub editor Matthew Winney Junior sub editors Tabitha John & Kezia Kurtz ADVERTISING Sales director Sam Scott-Smith 07875 711967 samscott-smith@bright.uk.com Ad manager Maria Francis 01223 492240 mariafrancis@bright.uk.com CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Bonelle-Lynch, Charlotte Griffiths, Phoebe Harper, Sally Petitt, Charlotte Phillips & Esther Sánchez DESIGN & PRODUCTION Design director Andy Jennings Magazine design manager Lucy Woolcomb Graphic designer Hedzlynn Kamaruzzaman Junior designer & ad production Holly May MANAGING DIRECTOR Andy Brogden TYPEFACE Nyght Serif / Maksym Kobuzan from Tunera Type Foundry
Venturing off the beaten track, Charlotte Griffiths cherry-picks some secret gardens, tucked-away museums, hidden houses and magical wild spaces that should all be on your must-visit list over the coming months (page 8). Of course, this is only a small slice of the secrets waiting to be discovered across the region, and we’re keen to know what your favourite Cambridgeshire hidden gem is. Get involved by sharing a post or story about your favourite place and tagging us @cambsedition on Instagram. This month has plenty of family activities, live music, stage performances, exhibitions, fairs and festivals in store for us. With the Easter holidays to kick things off, we’ve also got not one but two recipes to inspire your seasonal celebrations – a sweet spin on the traditional Easter nest from Chocolatisimo Shop’s Esther Sánchez (page 48) and a delicious lamb dish from new contributor Sarah Bonelle-Lynch, the
culinary content creator behind Cooking up Cambridge (page 46). Many eateries in our area are also launching new menus for spring, so be sure to sample those over Easter and the coming weeks. One such is Pint Shop on Peas Hill, which I visited recently for this issue’s restaurant review (page 51). Which brings me to the other main event for April: drumroll please, because the votes are in, and it’s time for the big reveal of this year’s Cambridge Edition People’s Choice Awards champions! On page 15, find out which local businesses have been crowned as winners (and highly commended runners-up) for 2026. A huge thank you to everyone who voted, as well as to those who visit and share the word about all of our area’s pubs, restaurants, hotels, cafes, retailers, producers, attractions, venues and service providers: your support means so much.
Find us @cambsedition
This is only a small slice of the secrets waiting to be discovered
Cambridge Edition Magazine Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire CB22 3HJ, 01223 499450, cambsedition.co.uk • All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of the publishers. • Views expressed in the magazine aren’t necessarily those of Cambridge Edition or Bright Publishing Ltd, which do not accept any liability for loss or damage. • Every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct. Prices quoted were correct at time the magazine went to print. • Cambridge Edition is a free publication that is distributed in Cambridge and the surrounding area.
With all best wishes,
Illustration by Holly May, inspired by a photo from @ioana.berbec
Louise Hoffman, editor
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ON THE COVER 8 / SECRET CAMBRIDGESHIRE Hidden gems of our county waiting to be discovered 15 / PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS The winners of this year’s local accolades are revealed! 31 & 39 / GIVEAWAYS Try your luck at this issue’s competitions, with prizes from Cambridge Folk Festival and Academy of Ancient Music 70 / HIDE AND CHIC Smart storage is central to contemporary kitchen design, with solutions to suit all room sizes
CULTURE EDITION 24 / CULTURE NEWS Upcoming events and key updates from Cambridge’s cultural scene 32 / BOOK CLUB Indulge in a spot of escapism with this month’s fantasy fiction reading list 35 / SCREEN TIME A round-up of April’s most anticipated film releases FOOD EDITION 42 / FOOD NEWS The latest gastro goings-on around Cambridgeshire
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48 / HOME COMFORTS Esther Sánchez shares the recipe for a moreish and joyful take on the Easter nest 51 / RESTAURANT REVIEW Nourishing fayre at Pint Shop and news of a fresh menu HOME EDITION 76 / EDITION LOVES Homewares and decor in fresh pastel hues for spring 46 / COOKING UP CAMBRIDGE Sarah Bonelle-Lynch cooks up a hearty lamb biriyani using locally sourced produce
REGULARS 6 / INSTACAMB This month’s top seasonal social media snaps 80 / ROCK ART Inspirational ideas for introducing alpines to your outdoor space 78 / TRADING UP Fay Roach of Cheffins highlights five jewellery collection items that may be worth more than you think 20 / THE AGENDA A choice selection of events taking place across the region in April, including some Easter family fun
56 / A SPORTING CHANCE In this month’s education feature, we discover why sport is more important than ever, both to the school curriculum and the extracurricular timetable 87 / A CUP OF TEA WITH… Dr Nigel Burrows, consultant dermatologist at The Day Clinic, shares the passion he has for his work 90 / I ♥ CAMBRIDGE Lika Kobzeva explains how Cambridge has drawn her back to stay, after first falling in love with the city as a student
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LOCAL LIFE
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LOCAL LIFE
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OUT AND ABOUT
Charlotte Griffiths ventures off the beaten track to highlight hidden gems of our county that should be top of your list to visit this year
THE FLAT OF THE LAND Cambridge is filled with nature-rich spaces such as Woodwalton Fen, one of four remaining pieces of the ancient fens (pictured)
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OUT AND ABOUT
I t’s true what they (should) say: when one is tired of Cambridgeshire, one is tired of life. Our county is laden with tucked-away gardens, tiny museums and off-the-beaten-track exhibitions to surprise and delight even lifelong Fenland-dwellers. Here, we’re spotlighting a selection of lesser-known sights and experiences around Cambridgeshire that are well worth visiting. While the doors may not always be open, planning or booking your visit in advance will leave you both thrilled and smug in the knowledge that you’ve seen something not everyone has encountered. We bet there’s at least one place in this list that you won’t have visited – or maybe even heard of! The perfect excuse for a day trip during the warmer months ahead.
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OUT AND ABOUT
Hidden houses small herd of Devon Red cattle attempt to moo-ve with the times (sorry). Across the county lies The Manor
O ur region has some spectacular historic homes to explore, and we’re not just talking about Wimpole Hall or Anglesey Abbey. First up in this list of hidden gems is Quy Hall, just five miles from the centre of Cambridge – a private residence owned by the Francis family who took ownership of the estate back in 1855. If you’re curious about the building, you can book a special tour to see the extraordinary walls and ceilings, painted with sprawling roses and ornate floral designs. Quy Park is open to visitors throughout the year for a beautiful view of the property overlooking one of our region’s unique chalk streams, as well as an elegant cast-iron bridge that used to be owned by St John’s College. You can follow Quy Hall on Instagram for a glimpse into the challenges of modern estate management as the family and their
at Hemingford Grey, a medieval home said to be one of the oldest continually occupied buildings in the country. In 1935 the property was bought by author Lucy Boston, who restored the Norman interiors and created the gardens that draw so many visitors in the summer months, when the perfumed borders are heavy with nodding old roses and steeples of irises. The gardens can be visited year-round, though viewing the inside of the property is by appointment only so requires planning. It’s well worth the effort, particularly if you’re a fan of Lucy Boston’s beloved children’s series Green Knowe , set in a loosely fictionalised version of The Manor. You can even recreate her main character Tolly’s arrival by boat from nearby St Ives.
TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE Cambridgeshire has a wealth of historic homes to explore such as Quy Hall (pictured), The Manor (above and right) and Woodwalton Fen (far right)
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OUT AND ABOUT
Share your secret Do you have a favourite hidden gem in Cambridgeshire? Tag us in your Instagram story or post @cambsedition
Special spaces P refer wilder spaces over tended gardens? Start at Woodwalton Fen, one of four remaining pieces of the ancient fens. Bought in 1910 by financier and naturalist Charles Rothschild, it’s one of our country’s first-ever nature reserves. Charles also built a bungalow to use as a base for his own entomological expeditions throughout the wetlands: this, again, is only open to visitors on selected dates, but the rest of the Fen can be visited year-round (though dogs must be left at home to protect the extremely rare species found on the reserve). Closer to Ely lies Kingfishers Bridge, a plot of 250 acres of farmland transformed into a wetland wilderness that’s now home to an extraordinary variety of native birds, plants and even a small herd of water buffalo. Follow the loop walk from the car park and you might spot them grazing in the reed beds. Back in the centre of Cambridge, at the corner of Brooklands Avenue and Trumpington Road is the Empty Common Community Garden, a permaculture- led, organic growing space that provides horticultural experiences to people of all ages and abilities. Run by a dedicated group of volunteers, this is a tiny but extremely magical site that’s open to all, and might just inspire you to have a go at growing this summer.
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OUT AND ABOUT
Enigmatic exhibits W e’re lucky enough to have some of the finest permanent exhibitions
Plan your adventures
in the country right here in Cambridge (the Polar Museum and the University Museum of Zoology are my personal favourites), but outside the city there are even more to explore. Why not start with the Bottisham Airfield Museum, which opened in 2009 to commemorate the role this village and its forgotten airfield played in World War II. The museum collects and conserves objects associated with the airfield and the squadrons that flew there, and regularly hosts historical-themed events. At the end of June, the museum will be putting on a two-day extravaganza with living history reenactments, vintage traders and singing groups. Book your tickets quickly to avoid missing out. Similarly, the Norris Museum in St Ives holds a whopping 33,000 exhibits associated with domestic life in Huntingdonshire, dating from prehistoric times right up to the present day. Named for its founder, Herbert Norris, who died in 1931 and bequeathed his collections to start the museum, today’s historians can explore the permanent exhibits with the aid of activity bags to boost accessibility, and regular special events take place throughout the year. There’s even a small but perfectly formed gift shop. A special mention should also go to the Adams Heritage Centre in Littleport: a preserved ironmongers from 1893, which
Quy Hall quyhallestate.co.uk
The Manor at Hemingford Grey greenknowe.co.uk
Woodwalton Fen greatfen.org.uk/woodwalton-fen
Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve kingfishersbridge.org
Empty Common Community Garden emptycommongarden.blogspot.com
specialised in Norwegian racing skates for those gliding across the frozen Fens. The property was given Listed status in summer 2025, and has been described as a ‘remarkable surviving example of a Victorian commercial building’. The Heritage Centre is managed by volunteers and only open on certain days, so drop by when there’s an event on and explore. On your way back into Cambridge, don’t miss the Women’s Art Collection: a free museum at Murray Edwards College showing selected pieces from its growing collection of artworks created by women artists. Set up in the 1990s, its noble aim is to challenge the underrepresentation of women artists in other museums and galleries. Keep a lookout for upcoming tours and events to get extra insight into the current exhibitions.
Bottisham Airfield Museum bottishamairfieldmuseum.org.uk
Norris Museum norrismuseum.org.uk
Adams Heritage Centre adamsheritagecentre.co.uk (or Facebook: search Adams Heritage Centre)
The Women’s Art Collection murrayedwards.cam.ac.uk/ womens-art-collection
TREASURE TROVE Go back in time at the Adams Heritage Centre (below) or enjoy the Women’s Art Collection at Murray Edwards College (above)
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AWARDS
The winners of this year’s People’s Choice Awards are revealed!
M ore than 2,500 people voted in the region’s businesses! It just goes to show how our local cafes and pubs, attractions and hotels, retailers and restaurants, salons and services keep our area thriving and improve our lives in so many different ways. What means the world to each and every business? Feeling that love! People’s Choice 2026 Awards – a hugely impressive amount of support for our
Of course, nothing is better than actually visiting these places, buying their wares and utilising their services. But businesses are clear that the very next best thing we can all do to support them is to leave that positive review, share that social media post or reel, recommend them to a friend – or cast that vote! Competition was stiff across all 13 categories in this year’s People’s Choice Awards, but the results are now in. Turn the page for the big reveal!
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AWARDS
1. Best Cafe FITZBILLIES
A fixture of the Cambridge streets since 1921, Fitzbillies’ reputation holds strong thanks to the cakes, buns, slices and sandwiches on display in the Trumpington Street, Bridge Street and King’s Parade cafe windows, tempting many a passerby alongside gift-worthy hampers, sharing boxes and memorable event catering. HIGHLY COMMENDED: STIR
3. Best Wedding Supplier PROVENANCE
Many a magical moment has been created at Provenance in Whittlesford, where bespoke menus and flexible event spaces – including an open-sided barn, orchard, Airstream bar and traditional stretch tent – set amid acres of beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside help happy couples to achieve the wedding of their dreams.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: THE OLD HALL ELY
2. Best Hotel or B&B UNIVERSITY ARMS
With 189 luxury rooms and suites across four floors, views across Parker’s Piece and interiors that whisk you back in time to Edwardian elegance, while simultaneously providing every modern luxury and service, you chose University Arms
as your winner in this competitive category. HIGHLY COMMENDED: GONVILLE HOTEL
HIGHLY COMMENDED: THE OLD HALL ELY
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4. Best Bar or Pub PINT SHOP
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The perfect space, atmosphere, menus and drinks lists for group gatherings or solo moments – famed for its hearty Scotch egg with honey and mustard sauce, plus its selection of beers and ciders – Pint Shop has claimed the title of best bar or pub in the People’s Choice Awards for a second year running! HIGHLY COMMENDED: THE RUPERT BROOKE
5. Best Restaurant PROVENANCE
Yes – we do have a double champion! Provenance has romped home for a second win, this time in the restaurant category, in recognition of the outstanding service and wood-fired, locally sourced seasonal British ingredients on offer at Brix + Mortar, the restaurant on its site in Whittlesford.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: KIBOU
6. Best Local Producer or Supplier THE GOG FARM SHOP
7. Best Fashion Retailer GRAND ARCADE
A firm favourite among Cambridgeshire farm shops, The Gog has won you all over with its wide range of local and artisan ingredients and products, from meat and cheese to vegetables, chutney and bread – many of which are also served in
breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes in its on-site cafe! HIGHLY COMMENDED: CAMBRIDGE WINE MERCHANTS
At the centre of your fashion universe is Grand Arcade – the retail hub in central Cambridge to which the biggest brands gravitate. There are around 50 premium and high-street stores over two floors – including fashion faves John Lewis & Partners, Phase Eight and Charles Tyrwhitt – making it a true one-stop shop. HIGHLY COMMENDED: IRIS & VIOLET
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AWARDS
9. Best Health or Wellbeing Provider THE GLASSWORKS
Cambridge residents’ first port of call when it comes to wellbeing? The Glassworks health club and spa in the heart of the city has got all bases covered, with state-of-the- art gym and spa facilities, a team of expert therapists offering Elemis spa treatments and personal trainers to tailor lifestyle programmes, plus an Aveda hair salon! HIGHLY COMMENDED: CAMBRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB
8. Best Hair or Beauty Salon SCRUFFS
Reigning supreme this year is Scruffs, which has proved itself ‘the home of hairdressing’. An independent, family- run business established in 1968 by Jon Chapman, today the 40-strong team is led by brothers Garry and Grant Chapman and offers cutting, styling, colouring, bridal and prom hair-ups
and hair replacement. HIGHLY COMMENDED: HOUSE OF BEAUTY
A true urban oasis that helps our wellbeing, our knowledge and our city’s reputation, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden has been welcoming visitors since its foundation in 1762. Today it holds a collection of more than 8,000 plant species from all over the world to facilitate teaching, research and enjoyment. HIGHLY COMMENDED: WIMPOLE ESTATE 11. Best Tourist Attraction CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY BOTANIC GARDEN
10. Best Home or Garden Retailer SCOTSDALES
Steaming ahead of the competition in this category, Scotsdales is your home and garden champion. A family-run collection of Cambridge garden centres, it has a 50-year history of helping local residents create and nurture their home havens with its selection of outdoor and indoor plants, pet care, homeware and garden essentials. HIGHLY COMMENDED: SEW KNIT CRAFT
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12. Best Arts and Cultural Venue or Experience FITZWILLIAM MUSEUM AND KETTLE’S YARD © LEWIS RONALD
© PAUL ALLITT
What’s this? Joint winners? Yes – would you believe it – Kettle’s Yard and Fitzwilliam Museum received exactly the same number of votes in this year’s awards! And so, these two gems in Cambridge’s cultural crown share the accolade of best venue, thanks to their carefully curated, engaging exhibitions and collections of both art and object. HIGHLY COMMENDED: CAMBRIDGE FILM FESTIVAL
13. Best Home or Legal Services TEES LAW
Founded in 1913, Tees Law now unites the traditional values of a family firm with a modern, national approach. The team’s first-class customer service and 360° legal and financial advice have earned it Legal 500 Top Tier rankings both this year and last – as well as the People’s Choice 2026 Award for best home or legal services. HIGHLY COMMENDED: SAVILLS
Big congratulations to all of the winners and runners-up, and a huge thank you to everyone who voted – your support is so appreciated! The people have spoken!
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THE AGENDA
1 FAMILY Becoming Roman, Museum of Classical Archaeology Step back in time for the afternoon and meet the Romans at this free, drop-in family event. Uncover hidden stories among the sculptures and create your very own Roman portrait to take home with you. FAMILY Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Cambridge Corn Exchange The perfect school holiday treat, this production of a family classic promises to delight audiences of all ages with a mix of imagination, humour and heart. Until 4 April.
4 FAMILY Cherry Blossom, Cambridge University Botanic Garden Create your own beautiful blossom and learn some amazing facts about cherry blossom around the world at this free family event, held from 10am until 1pm. Booking will be essential.
9 FAMILY Tales from the Circus, West Road Concert Hall Join a circus performer and Britten Sinfonia in this family concert featuring an adaptation of Leon and the Place Between , with music by Paul Rissmann and animations by Victor Craven. Suitable for all.
TALK The Psychology of Horror Movies, Cambridge Junction Join Katie Evans in tracing horror through
the ages and how it reflects societal anxieties. Explore why we are drawn to these films, our
relationship with fear and how we connect with the characters and narratives they present. 12 MUSIC Gigspanner Big Band, Storey’s Field Centre A unique force in British folk music, the Gigspanner Big Band’s performances appeal to traditionalists and those looking for something more experimental.
An array of events to enjoy in Cambridgeshire this month
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THE AGENDA
3 EVENT History Alive!, Kimbolton Castle This immersive living history spectacular invites visitors to step through the centuries over the May bank holiday weekend, with more than 200 reenactors and other performers transforming the castle grounds into a vibrant timeline of Britain’s past. 13 MUSIC Rhythm Across Time, West Road Concert Hall The Academy of Ancient Music joins The Wave Quartet in a musical voyage across five centuries, performing Bertali, Handel, Piazzolla, Bach and more. 19 FESTIVAL Wild Wood Festival, Linton This electronic music party returns in the summer for its ten-year anniversary as an independent and community- led festival in the enchanting woodlands of south Cambridgeshire. Until 21 June. June May May
22 BOOKS Cambridge Literary Festival, various venues Catch Mary Berry sharing the role that nature has played in her life and Harriet Tyce discussing her new novel Witch Trial (also one of our Book Club picks this month!), plus talks by Andrew Miller, Martin Bond, Sophie Raworth, Sarah Perry, Samira Ahmed, Margaret Drabble and more at Cambridge Literary Festival’s inspirational Spring Festival. Until 26 April.
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Handpicked: Painting Flowers, Kettle’s Yard Featuring more than 40 artists (including Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose Fritillaria is pictured) for whom painting flowers was either a brief but intense or lifelong preoccupation, this exhibition runs until 6 September. MUSIC Brodsky Quartet, Saffron Hall A concert in two parts, the Brodsky Quartet perform music from the string quartet’s heartland: Schubert’s restless energy and Beethoven’s beautifully compressed, profound final quartet. EVENT Spring on the Farm, Wimpole Estate Celebrate spring at Home Farm, as the lambing flock is joined by a cast of newborns including piglets, goat kids, calves and chicks. Until 10 May.
12 April
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EVENT Cambridge Bead Fair, Harston Village Hall A must-visit for the home jewellery maker, source beads, pearls, findings and other items for your projects from a range of traders. Entry is free and refreshments will be available. 15 BOOKS An Evening with Elle McNicoll, Waterstones Cambridge Celebrating the launch of Unapologetic Love Story – a smart, sassy and romantic novel with an important message at its heart – catch best-selling novelist Elle McNicoll in conversation with author Bea Ingalls.
Hackney Colliery Band, Cambridge Junction This pioneering nine- piece group continue to push the boundaries of brass band conventions with joyous live shows and a new album. 21 THEATRE Midsomer Murders, Arts Theatre Cambridge When spinster Emily Simpson is found dead in the village of Badger’s Drift, her friend refuses to accept that it was an accident. Starring Daniel Casey, this world premiere production runs until 25 April.
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Pop Goes Classical by Candlelight, Ely Cathedral The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra performs uplifting orchestral versions of the world’s most iconic pop songs by Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Coldplay, U2, Oasis and more in the candlelit cathedral.
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ON THE PULSE The latest in local art, music, theatre and festival happenings
ESCAPE REALITY Fantasy fiction to add a little magic to everyday life
FEELING LUCKY? A double helping of cultural competitions for you to enter
Discover the beautiful Arts and Crafts interiors of Cambridge, as well as the stories of people who created them, with a new self-guided walking map from David Parr House, which launches on 1 April to mark National Walking Day. Highlighting the surviving work of 19th- century Cambridge decorative firm F R Leach & Sons, the employer of local art-workman David Parr, the publication invites people to explore the hidden history of Cambridge, including such richly decorated spaces as Queens’ College Old Hall and Chapel on Silver Street (pictured). A walking tour will also take place on 4 April, bookable in advance. Find out more at davidparrhouse.org Awe-inspiring ambles
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CULTURE EDITION
SPRING ART EXHIBITION RETURNS THIS MONTH A highlight of the cultural year for art lovers and collectors in our region and beyond, the Cambridge Drawing Society Spring Exhibition 2026 takes place from 18 to 25 April at the Pitt Building on Trumpington Street. Curated by the society’s selection panel, the exhibition will showcase some 350 artworks by established member artists, and an impressive variety of subjects, techniques and materials including paintings and sculpture. Almost all of the artwork in the exhibition will be for sale, as well as greetings cards. Works on show will include Mystery House (pictured), a new work by artist Patrick Wilkins, one of whose paintings was voted favourite with the public in last year’s exhibition. The exhibition is free to enter and open daily from 10am to 4pm. Find out more at cambridgedrawingsociety.org
Red Rooster Festival unveils electrifying line-up Set against the sweeping parkland
The Red Hot Riot Big Band bring brass energy, while cult favourites Lassie, alt-country dreamers Sweet Giant and garage-soul firecrackers Mama Oh No keep the tempo high. All this, plus more music, Southern-style hospitality, a hot rod and motorcycle display, plus activities and workshops to enjoy. Red Rooster Festival takes place 28- 30 May. For for more information, visit redrooster.org.uk
hypnotic stylings of Sam Amidon to the voodoo-blues swagger of CW Stoneking, this year’s bill is steeped in authenticity. Country vibes come courtesy of Kassi Valazza, powerhouse vocalist Kezia Gill and blues-punk duo Left Lane Cruiser. Expect vintage swing from Rob Heron & the Tea Pad Orchestra, gritty Chicago blues via The Cinelli
of Euston Hall in Suffolk, Red Rooster Festival returns next month with a rich and raucous line-up that celebrates rhythm & blues, outlaw country, gospel fire and rock ’n’ roll spirit. From the luminous Valerie June, with her celestial blend of Appalachian folk, soul and psychedelic country to blues royalty Bobby Rush delivering swampy grooves, and from the
The latest from the cultural scene in Cambridge
Brothers and beatbox-blues brilliance from Son of Dave.
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CULTURE EDITION
NEWS IN BRIEF
POTTERY PAINTING FOR ALL A brand-new pottery painting experience has just opened at Huntingdon Home and Garden. At The Potting Shed Studio, customers of all ages and abilities can relax, reconnect and create as they paint the piece of pottery of their choice before it is fired in the kiln to create a keepsake to treasure. The studio also has plans for children’s events and seasonal workshops. Find out more and book at events.bluediamond.gg NEW MURALS COMING SOON Cambridge City Council has commissioned a public art project for the areas around Mill Road, with two large-scale murals set to be developed in close collaboration with the local community. There’ll be paid opportunities for local creatives as well as volunteering roles for the public. The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of August, with further details to be revealed soon. photographers to submit work for the inaugural edition of The City Series photobook series, which will focus on Cambridge. The team is looking for personal, open responses that capture how Cambridge feels, not simply how it looks. The deadline for submissions is 23 April; find out more at shutterhub.org.uk/ opportunities is one of five acts shortlisted for Boom Radio’s One More Dream initiative in partnership with Ambassador Cruise Line – a campaign offering performers from the 60s and 70s the chance to fulfil their musical ambitions. The winner will have their record professionally produced and perform live aboard a cruise ship. SECOND CHANCE OF STARDOM Peterborough’s Steve Strawhead CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS! Shutter Hub is inviting
Ode to the landscape Beginning this month as part of the spring/summer season at Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, celebrating the 250th anniversary of John Constable, are two exhibitions of work by current artists that show how the influence of Constable and his contemporaries is still felt by artists today. Land, Sky, Light: New Landscapes by David Dawson presents new and recent paintings capturing the shifting skies and luminous atmospheres of this acclaimed artist’s Welsh homeland. Initially painted outdoors during each season of the year, Dawson continues to work on these landscapes in his London studio, to then complete back in the countryside. Meanwhile, Kate Giles: Remember Tomorrow highlights the keen and intimate vision of this contemporary artist, with work depicting the landscape of her native East Anglia. Primarily, it will showcase paintings and drawings completed in the last year, several of which explicitly refer to Constable’s earlier ‘six-footer’, The Leaping Horse (1825), depicting the River Stour between Flatford and Dedham that he knew intimately. Taking place from 25 April to 11 October, find out more about these exhibitions and more at gainsborough.org
BUCOLIC BRILLIANCE Visit Gainsborough’s House to see paintings like June on Earth by David Dawson (left) and Leap (Noonday) by Kate Giles (above)
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CULTURE EDITION
THE SPITFIRE GIRLS TAKE FLIGHT Spitfire Girls , a play written by Katherine Senior, arrives at Cambridge Arts Theatre from 7 to 11 April as part of a second major UK tour. Reuniting on New Year’s Eve, 1959, decades after they answered the call, two women separated by the war meet as the rain hammers down on the windows of The Spitfire pub and recall a time when female pioneers defied expectations and soared through the skies. Inspired by the extraordinary true stories of the women who dared to fly during WWII and the incredible bond that tied them together, it tells a heartwarming story of strength, courage and loss – but above all else, hope. Find out more and book tickets at artstheatre.co.uk
HISTORIC TIMEPIECE JOINS CROMWELL MUSEUM COLLECTION The Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon has secured a small pocket watch that is believed to have belonged to Oliver Cromwell. It was displayed at the museum who lived on the same street as Cromwell in 1647. Cromwell is believed to have
given the watch to one of his officers, John Blackwell, while on campaign in 1650. It was then passed down until it was sold in 2019 to the owner who offered it for sale to the museum. It is one of only two watches with a reasonable provenance to have belonged to Cromwell, the other being at the British Museum. For more details and the museum’s upcoming programmes, visit cromwellmuseum.org
in 2024 and, after a public appeal along with grants from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Art Fund, now has a permanent home there. The watch is of a Puritan style, in a silver case, and would have indicated the date as well as the time using a clockwork mechanism wound daily. It was made by the London watchmaker William Clay,
A walk on the wild side Celebrating 40 years of television, presenter and BAFTA award-winning wildlife enthusiast Michaela Strachan will swap her binoculars for the spotlight this month as she brings her new live theatre show to The Apex in Bury St Edmunds. In Not Just a Wild Life , Michaela explores the highs and lows of a varied career that spans The Wide Awake Club , The Hitman and Her , The Really Wild Show , Countryfile , Springwatch and beyond. She recalls the risks she’s faced – from darting buffalo while four months pregnant and being bitten by a lemur in Madagascar, to discovering her fear of heights when recreating a giant spider’s web on Clifton Suspension Bridge! Book tickets to see Not Just a Wild Life on 27 April at theapex.co.uk
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CULTURE EDITION
A celebration of country life Save the date, as the South Suffolk Show comes to Ampton racecourse near Bury St Edmunds on 10 May. In the Grand Ring, the OG Performance Horses will be putting on a captivating display of trick riding, while Paul Hannam’s ATV Stunt Show perform daring stunts on quad bikes and, overhead, a Battle of Britain Spitfire Memorial Flypast take to the skies (conditions permitting). Elsewhere, watch farriers in the forge, gun dogs working, musicians entertaining, farm machinery new and old, a sheep show and a fun dog show (which will take entries on the day). Don’t miss the special display to mark 100 years of British Sugar. Plus, there’ll be plenty of shopping opportunities in the Lifestyle Marquee and among the trade stands, with refreshments also available. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the gate from 8.30am, and car parking is free. Find more information at southsuffolkshow.co.uk
Nine-piece band The South, which includes former members of The Beautiful South including singer Alison Wheeler and sax player-cum-vocalist Gaz Birtles, are heading to Cambridge Junction on 17 April to perform songs from an impressive 18-year career! Since the demise of The Beautiful South in 2007, this exciting live band have spent 16 years touring the theatres and festivals of the UK, bringing back the full sound and arrangements of such treasured songs as A Little Time (the number one single), Perfect 10 , Rotterdam , Song for Whoever , Old Red Eyes Is Back , Good as Gold and Don’t Marry Her , plus many more singles and album tracks. Get your tickets at junction.co.uk SOUNDS OF THE SOUTH
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
MUSIC MOZART’S PIANO CONCERTO NO 21 BY CANDLELIGHT On 24 April at Trinity College Chapel, soloist and pianist Finghin Collins will perform with the Celoniatus Ensemble, led by violinist Harriet Mackenzie, in a programme featuring this concerto, Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings . All proceeds go to Music in Action’s outreach work. mozartpianobycandlelight. eventbrite.co.uk
MUSIC 2026 CAMBRIDGE PIANO FESTIVAL
FILM BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL Taking place at West Road
The Cambridge International Piano Festival & Academy’s 2026 event is being held from 7 to 11 April at historic venues of the University of Cambridge, including Pembroke College and Trinity College. The festival will present a distinguished series of piano recitals by internationally acclaimed artists, including Sir Stephen Hough, Nikola Meeuwsen, Ronan O’Hora and MinJung Baek. cambridgepianofestival.com
Concert Hall on 28 and 29 April, this festival presents two collections of adrenaline-packed, inspirational films from remote corners of the planet, themed around extreme climbing, kayaking, mountain biking and more. Each screening will also feature a free prize giveaway to win outdoorsy goodies from the tour’s partners. banff-uk.com
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COMPETITION
WIN TICKETS TO CAMBRIDGE FOLK FESTIVAL
Cambridge Folk Festival is back this summer, and you could be the lucky winner of a pair of weekend tickets plus camping!
WORTH £330!
O rganised by Cambridge City Council, the Cambridge Folk Festival will return to its spiritual home of Cherry Hinton Hall on 1 and 2 August, with Frank Turner, Suzanne Vega and Richard Thompson headlining. The stellar line-up continues with a host of other exciting acts across the weekend, including festival favourites Seth Lakeman, Mark Radcliffe and David Boardman, This is the Kit and Brogeal. With two main stages, street
full schedule, keep an eye on cambridge folkfestival.co.uk and follow Cambridge Folk Festival on Facebook and Instagram. Now, you can kickstart your summer by entering this special competition. A pair of weekend tickets, plus camping, is up for grabs! Simply click on the button to the right or
performances and a Club Corner curated with local folk clubs, the 2026 edition promises a vibrant, intimate celebration, broadening its reach while returning to its roots. And, as ever, visitors can enjoy an array of spectacular food and drink and plenty of surprises along the way. For the first time, the festival will reach out beyond Cherry Hinton Hall to venues across the city in the run up to the main weekend. Concerts will be held at Cambridge Corn Exchange, The Portland Arms and a host of other venues. For the
visit cambsedition.co.uk/ competition to be in with a chance of joining the Cambridge Folk Festival on 1 and 2 August.
Terms and conditions: 1 The prize consists of two general admission tickets and overnight camping to Cambridge Folk Festival taking place on 1 and 2 August 2026 at Cherry Hinton Hall. 2 Travel, food, beverages, merchandise and any additional expenses are not included. 3 The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable, and no cash alternative will be offered. 4 This competition closes on 29 April 2026. 5 The competition is open to readers of Cambridge Edition magazine aged 18+. 6 Relatives of the competition sponsor and Bright Publishing employees are not eligible to enter. 7 One entry per person. 8 By entering this competition, you consent to having your name and address shared with the prize sponsor for the administration of your prize. Your GDPR rights are not affected.
LITERATURE
April Book Club Escape reality and dive into magical fantasy lands with this month’s book list compiled by Charlotte Griffiths
The Assassin’s Apprentice ROBIN HOBB When the world leaves you feeling blue, you can count on fantasy fiction to lift you from one reality and drop you straight into another – sometimes, delightfully, for many, many thousands of pages. Disillusioned by current global politics? Slip away into Robin Hobb’s epic Farseer saga, which starts with The Assassin’s Apprentice and continues into multiple mini series for a further 15 books. I accidentally read the entirety of the first trio because I just could not put them down. It follows young FitzChivalry Farseer, the illegitimate son of a recently abdicated but beloved prince, as he navigates courtly life under the care of his grandfather, the King, and his characterful retinue. It’s told as a first- person retrospective, which gives you a more intimate, human take on the otherworldly events that unfurl around Fitz as he tries to do his best by his family and those who’ve cared for him, while also being used as a political bargaining chip. There are two flavours of magic in this world: the Skill and the Wit. The former is the telepathic power employed by the ruling classes to observe and control their people, whereas the latter gives the bearer the ability to commune and bond with animals, and is considered taboo by polite society. Read these books in order of publication, and you’ll soon wonder why they’ve not become a Game of Thrones -style TV epic – yet. You’ll soon wonder why these books haven’t become a Game of Thrones-style TV epic
The Priory of the Orange Tree SAMANTHA SHANNON Buckle up for this riotous queer, feminist,
Those raised by the Priory know Galian is not the real hero: in their version it was a woman, Cleolind Onjenyu, who stopped the Nameless One long ago. The shifting nature of truth is a theme for the novel: there are multiple, competing perspectives about the same set of events. What is revered by one culture is reviled by the next, yet they are united in their mistrust of dragons. However, across the oceans lies the East, where dragons are venerated and the young Tané dreams of becoming a dragonrider – knowing the key to stopping the Nameless One is working with dragons, not against them. Shannon’s world may have a steep runway, but once you’ve got the basics down you will be completely absorbed. And a fantastic slow-burn, cross-culture romance doesn’t hurt at all…
swashbuckling series of warrior nuns, multi-generational queens, alchemists, pirates, a magic-bestowing orange tree and – of course – dragons galore. The Priory of the Orange Tree is the first in Samantha Shannon’s The Roots of Chaos series. In the island nation of Inys, Queen Sabran the Ninth has not yet borne a daughter to continue her line. This sparks rumours that the Nameless One – an apocalyptic dragon, sealed in the Abyss a thousand years ago by Galian Berethnet, Sabran’s royal ancestor – is on the verge of returning in order to wreak devastation across the land. By Sabran’s side is Ead Duryan, whose real name is Eadaz du Zāla uq-Nāra. She serves as a gentlewoman but is actually a deadly warrior from the South, sent by the Priory of the Orange Tree to protect the queen.
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LITERATURE
SARAH J MAAS Throne of Glass
Yes, it’s Sarah J Maas, and yes, you absolutely should get on board. It is no spoiler that all of Maas’ series are interlinked, and with two (two!) new books in her A Court of Thorns and Roses arc due in late 2026 and early 2027, now is the perfect time to head back to where it all began: this magnificent eight-book fantasy series Maas started writing at the age of 16. In Throne of Glass, the young assassin Celaena Sardothien has survived a year in a prison camp where the average inmate lasts three months. She is retrieved by Dorian, the Crown Prince of Adarlan, who gives her the chance to earn her freedom by taking a position as the King’s Assassin. To win, however, she must first battle her fellow killers in a deadly competition to find the individual most suited to this prestigious role. She agrees and is taken to the tyrannical King of Adarlan’s court, where Chaol Westfall, the Captain of the Royal Guard, trains her back to full strength in preparation for the tournament. Yet, when one of the other participants is brutally murdered, she cannot help but investigate – while also juggling her growing affections for Prince Dorian and constant bickering with Chaol. It’s a true fairytale for grown-ups; a classic fantasy that will see you and Celaena travel across continents, fight on rooftops, depose royalty and sail with pirates: it’s the perfect series to disappear into over the summer. And of course, once these eight books are done, you have Maas’ other worlds to dive straight into.
Add these titles to your reading pile while they’re hot off the press NEW RELEASES
Butter ’s bright-yellow cover was everywhere last summer, so beat the rush and land yourself a copy of this soon. Eriko’s perfect life is a mirage hiding crippling loneliness, so when she stumbles upon a food blog that awakens her appetite for life, she decides to track down the author – but at what cost… Hooked ASAKO YUZUKI, TRANSLATED BY POLLY BARTON
JILL DAWSON Pixie
Witch Trial HARRIET TYCE
The newest historical novel from star local author Jill Dawson, Pixie tells the tumultuous and fascinating tale of Pamela ‘Pixie’ Colman Smith, the illustrator of the classic Rider-Waite- Smith tarot deck. An epic turn-of- the-century feminist novel about the pursuit of creativity, all Dawson’s books are immediate must-reads and this is no exception.
Hot on the heels of the author’s appearance on The Traitors at the start of 2026 is her newest novel – a twisty, sinister, super-gripping legal drama that’s completely compulsive reading. Tyce will appear at the University Arms on 23 April as part of the Cambridge Literary Festival – celebrate the other World Book Day in true literary style!
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
LOCAL SNAPSHOT Movers and shakers of the Cambridgeshire business landscape
MANTLE SPACE
NOVI PRESENTS LEVEL 1 Level 1 launches a new monthly Saturday series. The opening night is on 4 April and will see Love Frequency on the decks, followed by an eclectic mix of DJs and crews from across the region, embracing a variety of music styles. With a plug-and-play format, each night is allowed to evolved organically. Not only that but the Level 1 space offers an intimate indoor party room which opens directly onto the stunning Novi first-floor roof terrace, giving the event a seamless inside-outside feel. Open from 9pm to 2am, get free entry at Novi, 12 Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1DB. @novicambridge novicambridge.co.uk
Mantle Space offers flexible office workspace solutions in eight dynamic centres at strategic locations including Cambridge, Abingdon, Stansted, Chelmsford and Stevenage. Catering to diverse business needs, we provide modern, fully serviced offices, co-working opportunities and meeting rooms designed to foster productivity and collaboration. Businesses benefit from high-speed internet, state-of-the-art facilities and a range of support services to help companies thrive. Mantle Space accommodates start-ups, growing companies and remote teams, offering both short- and long-term leases. It’s a vibrant business community. mantlespace.co.uk
LOCAL CINEMAS Arts Picturehouse picturehouses.com Everyman everymancinema.com The Light cambridge.thelight.co.uk
1 April Based on the Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 games, this adventure forms the sequel to The Super Mario Bros Movie (2023) and sees Mario travel into space to face new galactic challenges. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
Lee Cronin’s The Mummy
17 April In this reimagining of The Mummy franchise, the young daughter of a journalist disappears into the desert, before returning eight years later. However, what should be a joyful family reunion soon turns into a living nightmare.
3 April This romantic comedy film stars Zendaya and Robert Pattinson as a happily engaged couple who are put to the test when an unexpected turn sends their wedding week off course. The Drama
Glenrothan
17 April Two brothers reunite in the land of their birth, 40 years after a violent exchange with their father saw the younger of the two emigrate to the United States. Starring Brian Cox,
10 April When a free-spirited woman crashes at an Italian villa, posing as the owner’s fiancée, she discovers an unexpected romance that may change her life. Featuring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page. You, Me & Tuscany
Movie magic not to miss this month
Alan Cumming and Shirley Henderson.
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SCREEN TIME
PICTUREHOUSE PICKS Cambridge Arts Picturehouse duty manager and events coordinator Chloe Kelly reveals some more of the exciting new films hitting the big screen this month
T his April, Cambridge Borgli’s sardonic romantic comedy The Drama (opening 3 April), starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. Highly anticipated, Picturehouse Entertainment’s Rebuilding will then be hitting our screens on 17 April. Similar to God’s Own Country (2017), actor Josh O’Connor returns to the rural realm of storytelling, a genre we believe he thrives in. Rebuilding is a hopeful narrative about a divorced Colorado rancher called Dusty, (O’Connor) who is trying to make sense of his life after losing acres of generational land and memories in a wildfire. This film is a grounding experience that dives deep into the power of community, gently explores the hardships of fatherhood and unravels the trauma of displacement. This spring, we have an incredible line- Arts Picturehouse’s spring programme starts off strong with the release of Kristoffer up of exclusive screen art performances, beginning with the release of National Theatre’s All My Sons , opening in cinemas 16 April, with encores added weekly. Filmed live from the West End, this acclaimed new production, directed by Ivo van Hove, features a five-star cast including leads Bryan Cranston ( Breaking Bad ) and Marianne Jean-Baptiste ( Hard Truths ). All My Sons follows a family who are the heart of the American dream, but when wartime delivers profits for Joe (Cranston), it comes at a price when his partner is charged with
criminal deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. In addition to this, we are inviting you to experience the Royal Ballet and Opera’s The Magic Flute , which will be live broadcast directly from Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House on 21 April at 6.45pm (encore on 27 April at 1.45pm). Mozart’s The Magic Flute , led by the enchanting David McVicar, is a fairy tale centred on a coming-of-age story about true love and
Visit picturehouses.com/arts for the full programme, special screenings and events for its 30th anniversary, Moulin Rouge (2001) and ending on the underrated classic Strictly Ballroom (1992). the search for wisdom, through romantic royals and mythical monsters and men. As we set foot into myths and magic, it feels fitting to bring back Michael Mayer’s love letter to theatre, Funny Girl: The Musical , which is a bittersweet comedy telling the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice and her tempestuous relationship with gambler Nick Arnstein. This one-time showing takes place on 30 April at 7.45pm. Wrapping up our April programme, we are excited to share our April Rediscover strand, which celebrates the dazzling filmography of Baz Luhrmann, a director best known for his worldbuilding genius and flair for the extravagant. Kickstarting these Sunday showings is The Great Gatsby (2013), followed by Romeo + Juliet (1996)
UNMISSABLE SIGHTS Don’t miss out on some new and enchanting performances showing at the Picturehouse, including All My Sons (above), The Magic Flute (top right) and Rebuilding (right)
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