The October issue of Cambridge Edition welcomes in a new season of food, fun and festivities! Looking for a Halloween fright, some family entertainment, a seasonal celebration or a cultural diversion? Dive straight into this month’s cover story, Agenda pages and culture news. Tummy rumbling for a tasty morsel to warm those cockles as the colder weather sets in? Plenty of delicious seasonal delights await in our Food Edition section, from autumn fayre to winter dining. With the darker months often impacting on mental health, we also speak to local schools about their focus on pupil wellbeing. Plus, if an interior refresh is on your mind, you'll find expert tips on creating a new kitchen that's the social soul of the house.
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MIND MATTERS How our region’s schools are supporting pupil wellbeing AUTUMN FAYRE Where to indulge in the best of seasonal produce HARVEST FESTIVALS, APPLE DAYS, AUTUMN COLOURS AND GHOSTLY GOINGS-ON ACROSS CAMBRIDGESHIRE season
NATURE’S SPECTRUM Top tips for adding autumnal interest to your garden
WELCOME
HELLO, AUTUMN! Why is October so many people’s favourite month? I’m going to say it’s all down to cosiness, comfort and colours. The soft textures and warmth of those blankets that had been stored away for the summer; the sense of awe inspired by magical morning mists and golden sunlight cast onto autumn leaves; the heartwarming, soul-nourishing sensation of sipping a cinnamon hot chocolate or tucking into a hearty stew. Of course, it also brings with it a whole new season of fun! With Halloween events to entertain the little gremlins, grown-up witches and jump-scare fiends alike, as well as wholesome harvest festivals and apple days to help us celebrate our local produce, October’s calendar has something for everyone. Broomsticks, apple-bobbing bibs and walking boots at the ready: we’ve got a full line-up for you on page 8. One place we didn’t mention, but that has a few forthcoming seasonal events of its own, is Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve – a visit to which was one of my highlights of recent weeks. I wanted to catch the Listen to the Voices of the Fen sound sculpture trail, covered in the July issue of Cambridge Edition , before it ended. And what an experience it was! Immersed in sound, standing under the umbrella-like suspended speakers, I
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 Sub editor Zanna Buckland Junior sub editor
Tabitha John ADVERTISING Sales director Sam Scott-Smith +44 (0)787 5711967 samscott-smith@bright.uk.com Ad manager Maria Francis 01223 492240 mariafrancis@bright.uk.com CONTRIBUTORS Mark Box, Charlotte Griffiths, Phoebe Harper, Sally Petitt, Charlotte Phillips & Elisha Young DESIGN & PRODUCTION Design director Andy Jennings Magazine design manager Lucy Woolcomb Junior designer Hedzlynn Kamaruzzaman Junior designer & ad production Holly May MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck TYPEFACE Nyght Serif / Maksym Kobuzan from Tunera Type Foundry Find us @cambsedition
was completely transported to the hidden worlds of Sedge Fen, from the bubbles and ripples under its waters to the cracking of its trees in the wind. Rusting sculpted horns driven into the reed bed revealed the gurgling tones of decomposition, as handmade vessels of wild clay, scooped from the ancient riverbed, clinked and sang. But, for me, the standout installation has to be Sky Resonance by Kathy Hinde, located in the 50s-built Tower Hide. When I reached the top, ascending the ladder past the woodpecker-pecked perforations in its slatted sides, I carefully lowered the window to allow the wind to fill the strings of this intriguing harp. The resonance that rose up was all-consuming, filling both the space and the body, and rendering the landscape outside the hide almost otherworldly. Truly unforgettable! While this sound sculpture trail will sadly have closed by the time you read this, autumn is still a perfect time to soak up that ethereal quality of Wicken Fen.
I was completely transported to the hidden worlds of Sedge Fen
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 autumnal best wishes,
ON THE COVER Illustration by Holly May, inspired by a photo from @_andrew_duffin found on Instagram
Louise Hoffman, editor
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ON THE COVER 8 / CELEBRATE THE SEASON A round-up of the region’s most autumnal experiences 33 / GIVEAWAY Win a springtime seaside escape worth £1,180! 38 / AUTUMNAL EATS Elisha Young locates some of the best city spots for autumn produce 52 / PEACE OF MIND How local schools are supporting their pupils’ mental health 86 / IN LIVING COLOUR The best plants and trees to add seasonal interest
26 / BOOK CLUB Black History Month 2025’s core themes of power and pride 29 / SCREEN TIME This month’s most-anticipated film releases and where to see them 30 / HUMANS OF CAMBRIDGE Join photographer Mark Box for some fabulous footwear spotting FOOD EDITION 37 / FOOD NEWS The latest gastro goings-on around Cambridgeshire 40 / WINTER WARMERS Cosy ambience, comfort food and special events 45 / RESTAURANT REVIEW Editor Louise Hoffman pays a visit to Market House HOME EDITION 66 / THE SOCIAL KITCHEN How to create a space which brings everyone together 74 / EDITION LOVES Introduce the statement colour of 2025 to your own kitchen 79 / ON THE MOVE Why October is still a great time to get on the property market
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REGULARS 15 / INSTACAMB Our favourite social media snaps of the month 16 / THE AGENDA A host of events taking place in the city during October 47 / LOCAL NEWS Community updates from Hesse advocates a holistic approach to mental and physical health 85 / A CUP OF TEA WITH… Mehmet Services, shares his story 90 / I ♥ CAMBRIDGE Sarah Bonelle has found the city to be an idyllic place to start a family Mimoglu, director at Coversure Insurance across Cambridge 61 / EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT Dr Ellen
to your garden CULTURE EDITION
20 / CULTURE NEWS The latest updates from the city’s cultural scene
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OUT AND ABOUT
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OUT AND ABOUT
From ghostly events to harvest festivals, here is a round-up of this autumn’s most seasonal experiences – there’s something for everyone! Follow a Halloween trail… if you dare! A brand-new spooky family adventure awaits at the National Trust’s Wimpole Estate this year, as autumn sees it transform into a ghostly wonderland! Among the many installations and encounters, this illuminated Halloween trail invites you to navigate a shadowy cemetery, a laser garden, a possessed pumpkin farm and a spider tunnel tangled with webs and crawling with surprises. There will also be devilishly delicious snacks available to purchase, including bewitched burgers, trick or treat pizzas and decadent hot chocolates. Taking place during October half-term (23 October to 2 November), kids are encouraged to dress- up in their favourite spooky costumes! halloweenatwimpole.co.uk For a daylight alternative, the popular Anglesey Abbey family-friendly Halloween trail returns this year, from 25 October to 2 November, with even more riddles and clues to solve. An immersive adventure with plenty of spooky challenges along the way, there’s even a special prize to be collected at the end of the trail! Normal admission to Anglesey Abbey applies and trails are £6 per child. Book ahead for both events. nationaltrust.org.uk Climb aboard a ghost train At the Audley End Railway Halloween special from 25 October to 2 November, intrepid little ghost hunters can journey deep into spooky woods on the Halloween Express. They’ll meet a coven of witches and a host of familiar characters who will be handing out some special seasonal treats! Continue your spine-tingling experience with a woodland wander to the craft lodge for Halloween-themed photo opportunities, a potion-making session with the witches in the Fulfen Forest, an interactive stage show hosted by William the Wizard and a supernatural meet-and-greet on the Fairy and Elf Walk. audley-end-railway.co.uk Honour the apple While some varieties ripen earlier, October is known for its apple harvest. No doubt there will be a host of apple-inspired events taking place in towns and villages across the region to celebrate this all-round SPOOKY SEASON Explore the spooky woods on the Halloween Express with Audley End Railway (far left), visit the ghostly wonderland of Wimpole Estate (top) or enjoy a day of apple picking (left)
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favourite fruit, but here are a few of the bigger ones. Ramsey Rural Museum and Walled Garden’s Apple and Harvest Fair takes place on 12 October, where you’ll find food and drink, live music, traditional craft workshops, children’s activities and even molly dancing – a form of morris dancing specific to East Anglia. Raising money for charity, Burwash Manor’s Apple Day is scheduled for 11 October, and Visit Ely’s Apple and Harvest Fayre will take place on Palace Green and Cross Green from 11 to 12 October. wildlifebcn.org, burwashmanor.com, visitely.org.uk Meanwhile, for city residents it’s only a short stroll or bike ride to Cambridge University Botanic Garden’s Apple Day on 19 October to enjoy tastings and sales, themed activities, garden tours, entertainment, local crafts and pop-up food trucks, with experts on hand to identify your mystery varieties and offer cultivation advice. botanic.cam.ac.uk Snuggle up for a scary story A treat is in store for young readers at Waterstones this month. Local author Jack Mackay will be getting his audience well and truly in the Halloween mood as he introduces his spine-chilling new novel, Gloam , written specially for middle- grade readers. Honouring his great love for all things horror, he’ll also talk about his favourite stories, from Goosebumps to Stranger Things , before reading from Gloam and giving his top tips for writing the perfect fictional villain. This lunchtime event takes place on 29 October and will be suitable for ages nine and above. waterstones.com Reap the harvest This month, churches covering the length and breadth of Cambridgeshire will be festooned with flowers, local seasonal produce and perhaps the odd corn dolly made from the woven stalks of cereal crops, as their congregations give thanks for the harvest. Ely Cathedral’s Harvest Weekend takes place from 10 to 12 October with the theme of ‘Farming the Fens’. Visitors can look forward to a variety of different themed events over the course of the three days, including scarecrow making and folklore storytelling, set against the blooming backdrop of the flower-filled Nave, courtesy of the Flower Guild. For those wishing to worship, there is a harvest supper with hymns on 10, the Eucharist on 12 and prayer and praise on 13 October. elycathedral.org
GHOST TOWN Cambridge University Botanic Garden’s Apple Day (top); take a train through some spooky woodland at Audley End (bottom, top right); and look out for the Harvest Moon (right)
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OUT AND ABOUT
Watch the moonrise The full moon that’s closest in date to the first day of autumn (the autumn equinox) is the Harvest Moon, which this year falls on 7 October. It can be a particularly jaw- dropping sight as it rises low in the sky, near the horizon, when it sometimes takes on a vivid orange-red colour. This year’s Harvest Moon will be the first supermoon of the year – occurring during the time when the moon is at its closest to Earth – so it should appear bigger and brighter than the full moons seen thus far in 2025! Weather conditions permitting, wrap up warm and find a spot with a clear view of the horizon to watch the performance in all its glory. Stock up on witchy supplies October marks the lead-up to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which is still revered by those following a pagan spiritual path and many others. Celebrated on the evening of 31 October, it marks the division between the lighter and darker halves of the
year, and therefore the time when the veil between the worlds of the living and the dead is thought to be at its thinnest – hence Halloween! For those who need to stock up on supplies, there’s a new market in town. Held at Duxford Community Centre on 26 October, the inaugural Cambridge Witchcraft Market will host 35+ stalls of books, crystals, tarot decks, jewellery, spell kits, decorative items, clothing and more. Search ‘The Suffolk Witchcraft Market’ on Facebook to find out more. For lots more magical purchases, stop by at Nomads on King’s Parade and (for young wizards and witches in particular) The Department of Magical Gifts on Rose Crescent, or Positively Magickal, a pagan and alternative gift shop on High St Passage in Ely. positivelymagickal. co.uk, nomadscambridge.com, thedepartmentofmagicalgifts.co.uk Venture into spooky Suffolk Touted as one of the UK’s most haunted towns, Bury St Edmunds is going
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all-out for spooky season! Among the devilish delights on offer this month are an evening of candlelit ghost stories at Theatre Royal on 6 October, a talk on witchcraft and cunning folk by Dr Tabitha Stanmore at Moyse’s Hall Museum on 24 October, Firestorm Cabaret’s Hell-O- Ween creep show of burlesque, circus and cabaret at the Hunter Club Arts Centre on 25 October and guided Ghostly and Macabre Tours through the town, operating as of 31 October. theatreroyal. org, moyseshall.org, hunterclub.org.uk, burystedmundstourguides.org And let’s not forget the infamous Scaresville Haunted Village live-action immersive experience, which returns to Kentwell Hall from 15 October to 1 November! scaresville.co.uk Become a mad scientist Kids will love taking on the Evil Genius Awards, making their own ‘blood in a bottle’ and getting gloriously slimed in fantastically foul experiments at the Cambridge Science Centre. Open every day in the October half-term and a short hop from Cambridge city centre, the Science Centre is filled with hands-on fun for the whole family. Individual session tickets can be booked online, with annual membership also available. cambridgesciencecentre.org Cherish the colours of autumn As well as the aforementioned Anglesey Abbey, Wimpole Estate and Cambridge WITCHING HOUR Make sure to stock up on witchy supplies (bottom), attend a guided Ghostly and Macabre Tour in Bury St Edmunds (right) or look out for bright orange pumpkins (top)
University Botanic Garden, where there’s an entire section of the garden given over to autumn leaf colour, from the buttery yellow of the Ginkgo biloba to the fiery red of the Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’, there are a few other recommended spots to soak up the rich seasonal spectrum. In particular, there’s Jesus Green, Beechwoods nature reserve, Churchill College with its fabulous Boston ivy-covered wall and the long, leaf-carpeted avenues of trees at Wandlebury Country Park. Nature at its most spectacular!
Don’t miss!
The ADC Theatre is hosting a double bill of Halloween-themed shows this year: The Addams Family , 28 October to 1 November, and Dragtime! Presents: Ghosted , 29 October to 1 November. Find out more and book tickets at adctheatre.com
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LOCAL LIFE
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THE AGENDA
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EXHIBITION
Sara Moorhouse, Cambridge Contemporary Art Unveiling a new series of handmade screenprints, as well as ceramics, celebrated for their vibrant colours and geometric rhythm. Grace Petrie, Cambridge Junction In Grace’s brand-new, feel-good show This Is No Time to Panic , she fuses the two things she does best: razor-sharp stand-up comedy and impassioned folk music. COMEDY
The Heather Ferrier Trio, The Portland Arms
Clog-dancing accordion player Heather Ferrier, guitarist Alasdair Paul and drummer Adam Stapleford show off their alt-folk groove.
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Made in Ancient Egypt, Fitzwilliam Museum With jewellery, ceramics, sculpture and more, including objects never before seen in the UK, this exhibition explores ancient Egypt through its craftspeople.
Penguin, Cambridge Junction An intimate look into writer and performer Hamzeh Al Hussien’s extraordinary journey as a refugee – from his village in Jordan to his home in Gateshead.
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Earth Photo 2025, Anglesey Abbey EXHIBITION
Sandi Toksvig, Cambridge Corn Exchange Join comedian and
MUSIC
See shortlisted works from this international competition – dedicated to work from still and moving image makers
London African Gospel Choir, Saffron Hall Paying homage to Bob Marley’s contributions to music, culture and social change with a reinterpretation of his songs in what would have been his 80th year.
broadcaster (and tiny beacon of hope) Sandi Toksvig for Friends of Dorothy : celebrating her passion for books.
on prescient issues affecting our planet.
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EVENT
BOOKS
The Trials of Democracy, Cambridge Guildhall This weekend of art, workshops and a play by local theatre company Menagerie examine the concept of democracy. Until 5 October.
Alan Davies, Cambridge Corn Exchange
Lulu, Cambridge Corn Exchange
An Evening with Tessa Hadley, Waterstones Join this renowned author as she celebrates the paperback release of The Party – an unforgettable story of two sisters and a night that changes everything.
Celebrating her official autobiography If Only You Knew , Lulu invites fans to an evening of memories featuring characters from The Beatles to Bowie!
The eponymous hero of Jonathan Creek and a permanent panellist on QI , Alan Davies brings his Think Ahead show to Cambridge this autumn.
An array of events to enjoy in Cambridgeshire this month
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EXHIBITION
Muse, Wightman Gallery, Saffron Walden With female artists, including Anne Curry and Karina Sharma, this explores the gendered implications of the artist-muse dynamic.
Sananda Maitreya, Cambridge Junction On his first UK headline tour in 23 years, Sananda will perform songs from new album Introducing the Hardline and more with his band The Sugar Plum Pharaohs.
Bury St Edmunds Literature Festival, various venues Enjoy events featuring exciting national and local authors, including an evening with actress Dame Harriet Walter at Theatre Royal.
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THE AGENDA
8 NOV EVENT
11 NOV John Illsley, Apex Theatre, Bury St Edmunds Discover the story of one man’s musical journey as a founding member and long-time bass player of one of the most iconic bands in rock history with MUSIC 28 NOV Cambridge Botanic Lights 2025, Cambridge University Botanic Garden For a third year, John Illsley: The Life and Times of Dire Straits . the Botanic Garden will be transformed into a spectacular illuminated trail for winter, celebrating the extraordinary world of plants. Until 23 December. EVENT Christmas Spectacular 2025, Thursford Collection An extravaganza of singing, dancing, speciality acts and music, with a cast of 120+ performers, this is one of the biggest Christmas shows of its kind in Europe! Runs until 23 December.
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Cambridge Carbon Footprint’s Open Eco Homes: Winter Special Discover eco homes and gain practical, expert advice from free in-person and online talks and workshops. Until 30 November.
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Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, Saffron Hal l This multi-award- winning West End musical tells Buddy Holly’s story, from his rockabilly beginnings to international stardom. Until 1 November.
10 Oct
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THE BIG SCREEN Popcorn at the ready for the Cambridge Film Festival
SONGS FOR THE SEASON Music from myriad genres to welcome in the autumn
OCTOBER BOOK CLUB Literary masterpieces to help celebrate Black History Month
Featuring Mike Hammond (guitars, vocals, banjo), Alex Hammond (washboard, snare drum, percussion) and Aly Hirji (guitars, mandolin, vocals), with BBC film critic Mark Kermode on bass and harmonica, The Dodge Brothers are a skiffle-and-blues band performing new songs in the old style, harking back to the days of jug-band blues and early rock ’n’ roll. Catch them live at Cambridge Junction on 23 October. junction.co.uk Oh, brother!
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CULTURE EDITION
CAMBRIDGE FILM FESTIVAL REVEALS ITS 2025 LINE-UP The Cambridge Film Festival (CFF), one of the UK’s most distinctive and longest-running celebrations of cinema, returns to Cambridge Arts Picturehouse with its 44th edition this autumn, promising an extended 11-day programme packed full of world-class films, bold new voices and unforgettable stories from all around the globe. Running from 23 October to 2 November, this year’s festival will present nearly 100 titles from more than 25 countries, including 30+ UK premieres, alongside European and world debuts. More than 50% of the line-up is female-directed – marked with the Festival’s signature ‘F’ rating that helps champion women filmmakers. Major names, bold voices This year’s programme is a heady mix of breakthrough debuts, global talent and award-winning auteurs. Highlights include: • Bugonia – Yorgos Lanthimos’s twisted, darkly comic sci-fi reimagining of the Korean cult hit Save the Green Planet! , starring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons. Expect paranoia, pitch-black absurdity and Lanthimos’s most anarchic storytelling yet. • Rental Family – Brendan Fraser stars in a soulful Tokyo-set drama from director Hikari and producer Riz Ahmed. A tender look at identity and emotional performance in an increasingly disconnected world. • Alpha – Palme d’Or winner Julia Ducournau returns with a searing near-future tale of motherhood and biotech, led by the powerful Golshifteh Farahani. • A Private Life – Jodie Foster headlines this suburban mystery from Rebecca Zlotowski, peeling back the private tensions that shape everyday lives. • The Ice Tower – A haunting mystery set in an isolated snowbound facility, starring Marion Cotillard and directed by Lucile Hadzihalilovic. Expect atmosphere, elegance and enigma. Cinema with purpose Returning for 2025, the beloved Environment & Community strand examines urgent global and local themes, showing How Deep Is Your Love , a poetic documentary about Britain’s hidden urban nature directed by Eleanor Mortimer, and We Live Here , a powerful portrait of resistance and resilience in Kazakhstan, by filmmaker Zhanana Kurmasheva. Free family screenings As part of its commitment to accessible cinema, CFF offers free morning screenings for families throughout October half-term. Discover animated gems and modern classics like Inside Out 2 , Whale Rider , The Nightmare Before Christmas , The Parent Trap and more. Talent support In partnership with Anglia Ruskin University, the festival will be hosting its fourth CFF Industry Day,
© JÉRÔME PRÉBOIS
IMAGES COURTESY OF CAMBRIDGE FILM FESTIVAL
The latest from the cultural scene in Cambridge
welcoming emerging talent and established creatives alike for panels, networking and forward-looking discussions. Expect insights on the future of film, sustainability in cinema and diversity in storytelling. For more information on the full programme and to buy tickets, visit cambridgefilmfestival.org.uk
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CULTURE EDITION
How long have you been involved with the Cambridge Film Festival? Since I moved to Cambridge in 2014; Three minutes with Cambridge Film Festival operations manager Cristina Roures SHOWREEL volunteers to audiences. I love the atmosphere and sense of community. Top film discoveries from past programmes: A documentary called Poached (2015) exploring the psychology of illegal wild bird egg collectors – so unexpected! Also, Rocks by Sarah Gavron, which opened the festival in 2019. Showing you’re most looking forward to this year: Hard to choose, but I’m thrilled we’re showing Romería , the latest from Catalan filmmaker Carla Simón, one of the greatest new voices today. Favourite actors: I’m currently quite obsessed with Josh O’Connor and Paul Mescal (who isn’t?!), but I love many others, such as Olivia Colman, Tilda Swinton, Carey Mulligan and Joaquin Phoenix. Go-to genres: I started out as a volunteer! Favourite part of the event: The people! From the team to Coming-of-age, social realism and drama. I love emotional and intimate stories (and a good cry!). Film score that gives you shivers: In the Mood for Love ; haunting and so very beautiful. Most memorable movie moment: There are many, but Roy Batty’s ‘Tears in Rain’ monologue at the end of Blade Runner (1982) drenched on the rooftop is one, it’s so poetic. Favourite comfort film: Amélie always lifts my mood.
© 2025 SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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CULTURE EDITION
AUTUMN MUSIC FESTIVAL SOON TO OPEN ITS DOORS
New local initiative supports young creatives Cambridge Junction has announced the launch of Kit Bank, a community- powered initiative that collects used musical instruments, home studio gear and filmmaking equipment and puts them in the hands of passionate young people who need them most. Whether it’s a keyboard collecting dust or a mic that’s been outgrown, these donations will open up a world of creativity, confidence and opportunity, giving young creatives with significant barriers in their lives the opportunity to develop their art form at home or in their community space. Drop-off points at the Junction, Cambridge YMCA and Anglia Ruskin University are now accepting donations of studio equipment, laptops, musical instruments, DJ controllers and more.
24 November Angela Hewitt, Trinity College Chapel Angela (pictured below) will play Baroque reflections: Bach’s Partita No 5 , Schumann’s Sonata No 2 , Couperin’s Sixième Ordre and Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin . 28-29 November Quatuor Danel, Pembroke Auditorium Across three concerts, Quatuor Danel traces the personal and political landscape of Shostakovich’s life through a selection of his string quartets. Tickets for the festival are available at cambridgemusicfestival.co.uk
Featuring world-renowned performers in unforgettable settings, and music that speaks to the soul – whether it’s sacred, meditative or joyfully expressive – Cambridge Music Festival’s Autumn Series begins this month. Taking place from 24 October to 29 November, the festival is hosted across a range of the city’s chapels and concert halls, presenting a rich tapestry of music from across time and culture. 24 October Britten Sinfonia, Trinity College Chapel Directed by Thomas Gould, with acclaimed cellist Guy Johnston (pictured right), this moving programme includes Max Richter’s Recomposed: Vivaldi Four Seasons . 29 October Tallis Scholars, King’s College Chapel A Renaissance programme of sublime beauty, jointly directed by Peter Phillips and Daniel Hyde, and performed amid the chapel’s majestic setting. 7 November BBC Singers & Concert Orchestra and the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge , King’s College Chapel Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius , in Iain Farrington’s powerful chamber orchestration, forms one of the autumn’s major events, conducted by Daniel Hyde. 13 November Kaviraj Singh, Pembroke Auditorium Kaviraj Singh brings the shimmering sound of the santoor, tabla and soulful singing for a contemplative evening.
© LIAM TOGHER & JAHMAL CROWE
LOCAL LITERATURE While the Music Lasts JIM POWELL
© MUSACCHIO & IANNIELLO
Divided into two volumes
and spanning four decades, this novel by Cambridge
alumnus Jim Powell begins at Cambridge University, where you’ll meet characters whose lives you’ll follow through triumphs and tragedies. Don’t miss! A spine-tingling night of nostalgia is promised on 31 October at Cambridge Junction, as 90s TV star Pat Sharp takes the stage for a special Halloween DJ set of thrills, chills and the biggest retro hits. Costumes encouraged! Visit zombie-fest.com to find out more.
© RICHARD TERMINE
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CULTURE EDITION
Ocean Film Festival World Tour comes to Cambridge All aboard for a big-screen ocean adventure! The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is set to bring a new collection of thrilling ocean- themed films to venues around the UK this autumn, including Cambridge’s West Road Concert Hall. Starring gripping ocean adventures and mesmerising marine life, the festival will showcase the wonder and power of the sea through a selection of short films from around the world. “The Ocean Film Festival is more than just a film event; it’s a celebration of our planet’s blue heart,” says tour director Nell Teasdale. “The festival aims to inspire a deeper connection with the sea, offering a deep dive into the heart of our oceans and the lives of those who cherish them.” The 2025 film line-up includes Let Me Live , which follows Tom Lowe, a legendary big wave surfer from Cornwall, plus films about freediving, extreme bodyboarding and more. The inspirational documentaries will be introduced by a compere, and each screening will see a free prize giveaway to win ocean-related goodies. “Whether you’re a seasoned ocean enthusiast, a weekend surfer or someone who marvels at the mysteries of the deep, this festival promises an unforgettable cinematic journey,” Nell continues. The Ocean Film Festival will take place on 10 October. To secure your tickets, visit oceanfilmfestival.co.uk
SEASONAL LIVE MUSIC AT STAPLEFORD GRANARY Stapleford Granary will welcome more than 50 exceptional musicians throughout the autumn, with a programme that includes both new voices and established masters across multiple genres, from traditional and contemporary jazz to folk and classical, all set in the intimate surroundings of the Granary’s concert hall. Upcoming classical highlights for this month include Renaissance and Baroque music from award-winning The Marian Consort on 10 October; a gloriously eclectic programme of music for trumpet and accordion by Classic FM Rising Stars Aaron Azunda Akugbo and Ryan Corbett (pictured left) on 26 October; and charismatic recorder and harpsichord duo Tabea Debus and Steven Devine on 31 October. Meanwhile, Joe Webb, a leading force on the global jazz scene, brings his seamless blend of nostalgia, traditional jazz and contemporary flair to the programme with his trio on 3 October; Charlie Dore presents an evening of stories and songs which move through folk and Americana to jazz and art-pop on 4 October; while the global sounds of Mishra follow on 18 October. Find out more at staplefordgranary.org.uk/whats-on/events
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LITERATURE
October Book Club Literary masterpieces to celebrate Black History Month 2025’s core themes of power and pride
KILEY REID Come and Get It
Newly single, 37-year-old writer Agatha Paul is starting her life over in Fayetteville, Arkansas after taking a visiting professorship for a year while doing research for her new book on wedding culture. Meanwhile, Millie Cousins, a student working at the same college as a resident assistant, needs all the funds she can get, so she helps Agatha set up research interviews for her book with other young people in the dorm. The societal truths casually dropped by the candid, off-guard students are much more fascinating than any research project, and just like that: the book is off and running. Reid effortlessly segues between characters, slowly but surely revealing the links that bind this disparate group of individuals together – more than they might like to admit. As with her first book, Such a Fun Age , this latest novel is completely engrossing from the start, packed with superbly written, whip-smart character studies. The richly textured cast of characters soon begin to connect in unexpected ways and, as the novel builds, you begin to notice the ripples of characters’ choices crashing up against each other. A brilliantly insightful, unputdownable and deeply clever novel that’s a treat for anyone needing to escape into another world.
A group of young black British friends navigate London life in this richly imagined collection of tales. SHORT STORIES For Such a Time as This SHANI AKILAH
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store JAMES MCBRIDE
there requires a jump back in time to the 20s and 30s in the run-down Chicken Hill neighbourhood, where a black community and Jewish immigrants are living side by side, building real connections against all odds. On paper, this is a small-town murder mystery, but quickly becomes the tale of the US at large: displaced peoples battling against prejudice, poverty and the cruel hand of fate, slowly realising that there’s more uniting them than dividing them, and that if they pull together, there’s nothing they can’t overcome – and no secret they can’t keep.
Opening this book is like settling down on a sofa with a master storyteller. You might not know where the tale’s headed, but if you can hold tight through the detours and digressions, give yourself up to the ebb and flow of the narratives and trust McBride’s exceptional, award-winning writing, this is the most rewarding and heartbreaking of novels that deserves its position on many best-of lists. In 1972 Pennsylvania, US, a construction project grinds to a halt when a skeleton, a belt buckle, some old red threads and a mezuzah are found in the bottom of an old well. How they got
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LITERATURE
EHIGBOR OKOSUN Forged by Blood
Now this is how you do worldbuilding. Okosun’s shimmering debut novel bases its rules and legends on Nigerian folklore and mythology. This is the first in a planned pair of books following young, furious and magical Dèmi as she learns to live without her much-loved mother and strives to put her world firmly back on track. This epic fantasy is set in Dèmi’s ancestral homeland, Ife, which has long been conquered by the light-skinned Ajes who lack the magical skills of the Oluso people and have outlawed their use. Her early years are lived quietly under her mother’s care, learning the ancient ways and how to wrangle her growing magic, while also keeping her new skills hidden from the Ajes. On an otherwise quiet evening, the small family’s world is shattered when they place their trust in the wrong person and Dèmi swears she will have vengeance, no matter how long it takes for her to enact it. Years later, Dèmi – now a young adult – is given a chance to strike at the heart of the ruling classes by using her powers to help kidnap a young Aje prince – but as you’d expect, there’s more to the prince than she first thought. The beautifully depicted magical processes are completely captivating, and the action, of which there is plenty, is extremely gripping – you will find yourself staying up late into the night to discover what happens in the next chapter.
MATTERS OF FACT October’s book list continues with three captivating works of non-fiction…
Why do we want to eat specific foods? This book traces the trends and examines the stories we’re told about the snacks, dishes and drinks at the top of everyone’s wish list. How is food culture influenced by the rest of society, and how has this entire sector changed so much, so quickly? All Consuming RUBY TANDOH
Anansi’s Gold
A total and utter joy of a book. These varying-length essays about unexpected happinesses cover a broad range of topics: from failing to find a public bathroom in NYC to taking a tomato plant on a plane, each of these essays is guaranteed to brighten your day immeasurably. The Book of Delights ROSS GAY
This extraordinary, award-winning book tells the tale of a Ghanaian con artist. Taking advantage of the post- independence chaos, he runs a global scam promising a chance at Ghana’s lost millions for just a small up-front investment. Make sure to buckle up and enjoy the ride. YEPOKA YEEBO
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LOCAL CINEMAS Arts Picturehouse picturehouses.com Everyman everymancinema.com The Light cambridge.thelight.co.uk
I Swear
10 October Telling the true story of John Davidson, who was diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome at a young age, this British film stars Shirley Henderson, Maxine Peake, Peter Mullan and Robert Aramayo.
Tron: Ares
10 October A visual feast, Tron: Ares follows characters sent on a dangerous mission from the digital to the real world as part of a highly sophisticated programme, for humankind’s first-ever encounter with AI beings. Featuring Jared Leto, Greta Lee and Evan Peters.
Roofman
17 October Channing Tatum takes the lead role in this crime comedy-drama, based on the true story of a former army ranger who becomes notorious for robbing McDonald’s restaurants by cutting holes in their roofs.
31 October Two conspiracy-obsessed young men kidnap the high-powered CEO of a major company, convinced that she is an alien intent on destroying planet Earth. Starring Emma Stone, Alicia Silverstone and Jesse Plemons. Bugonia
Movie magic not to miss this month
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STREET STYLE Humans of Cambridge Take a stroll through the city streets with Mark Box for some fabulous footwear spotting...
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STREET STYLE
Sole city Just as we’re reminded to look up more – lest we
miss architectural details, both historic and modern, that hide in plain sight – so too should we cast our eyes downward! “I never thought shoes could tell a story until I started noticing the ones people are wearing around Cambridge and began to wonder what paths those feet have trodden,” says photographer Mark Box. “From vintage brogues that have danced through May Balls to neon trainers pounding Parker’s Piece at sunrise, every pair has a tale. So, this October, I encourage you to look down. Notice the soles that carry these stories, and perhaps let your shoes say something fabulous too!” Humans of Cambridge is a street photography photoblog founded by Mark Box in 2020.
Follow him on Instagram @humanofcambridge
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COMPETITION Win a luxury stay on the Norfolk coast A springtime seaside escape awaits the lucky winner of this month’s competition T ucked behind sand dunes on the Norfolk coast, Shangri-la House is so close to the beach that you can hear the waves – and maybe even the call of the seals that often gather there. The perfect secret retreat, this modern, Worth £1,180!
dog-friendly holiday cottage in Waxham sleeps six people and is set within an acre of gardens. Designed by Mole Architects, it’s built to bring people together, boasting a large, open-plan living, dining and kitchen area with huge floor-to-ceiling windows that immerse you in the beautiful, wildlife- rich surroundings. Situated just two hours from Cambridge, it’ll feel a world away from home without a daunting drive. For this month’s competition we’re helping you plan ahead, because where better to see in the spring season with style and serenity than Shangri-la House? Enter now and you could be the lucky winner of a midweek stay from 9 to 13 March 2026, worth a whopping £1,180! Simply scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit cambsedition.co.uk/ competition to take part. Here’s hoping you’ll be relaxing by the sea come March!
A REAL FIND A perfect retreat, Shangri-la House is so close to the beach you can hear the waves
CLICK HERE TO ENTER THE COMPETITION
Terms and conditions 1 The winner will be subject to Shangri-la House’s standard terms and conditions, which will be provided upon booking. 2 The stay is non- transferable. 3 There is no cash alternative to this prize. 4 This competition closes on 24 October 2025. 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 email address shared with the prize sponsor for the administration of your prize. Your GDPR rights are not affected.
CULINARY CATCH-UP The latest updates from the Cambridge foodie scene
SEASONAL DELIGHTS Elisha Young makes the most of autumn’s bounty
DINING GUIDE Where to go for your fix of wholesome winter warmers
Tokyo twist
Offering a unique take on festive fayre, Kibou Japanese Kitchen & Bar has just revealed its forthcoming seasonal menu, featuring chef’s specials and two sharing menus – one with classic sushi and sashimi, alongside popular Japanese small plates such as crispy cauliflower in a sweet-spicy shichimi glaze, and the other with a more indulgent selection, including salmon and wagyu crisp, truffle teriyaki tofu and yuzu miso salmon. Meanwhile, a selection of made-to-order platters enables you to bring the party home, with ready-to-eat sushi and sashimi, street food and bao buns. Available from 17 November to 31 December, find out more at kibou.co.uk/christmas
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FOOD EDITION
The Wrestlers on Newmarket Road has scooped a £10,000 prize, courtesy of cider partner Westons. A family-run business for 36 years, serving up Thai cuisine within a British pub setting, The Wrestlers is part of the Wells & Co family. Jock Phookha, one half of the management team, said: “It’s an incredible reward. We are over the moon!” Westons launched the competition earlier this year to mark its 145th anniversary, giving stockists the opportunity to win by purchasing three kegs from its range during the qualifying period. Overall, seven different Wells & Co pub partners received awards, with six pubs being handed runner-up prizes of £500. THE WRESTLERS WINS BIG WITH WESTONS CIDER
Two culinary superstars have joined luxury Norfolk boutique hotel The Harper. Jack Gosling has been appointed as executive chef, at the helm of the hotel’s restaurant Stanley’s, and experienced sommelier Rui Pereira has bolstered the hotel’s offering, joining the team as food and beverage manager, overseeing all aspects of the guest culinary experience. Rui brings a wealth of experience from a variety of high- end, Michelin-starred establishments, luxury hotels, members’ clubs and restaurants across London. Meanwhile, Jack’s culinary journey has taken him all over the world, from his Norfolk roots to Australia, Asia, Central America and Europe, with six years spent working at two Michelin-starred restaurant Spectrum in the Waldorf Astoria hotel. Blending global inspiration and techniques with local farms, fishermen and foragers, Jack brings a bold but thoughtful approach to his cooking. His menus champion local seasonal produce, shaped by a deep love for East Anglia. theharper.co.uk News from north Norfolk
Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana has announced that it is celebrating the launch of its first-ever Cambridge pizzeria by giving away 3,000 of its Neapolitan pizzas on the house! Opening this autumn, the new city-centre pizzeria will transform the former TSB building at 6 St Andrew’s Street, which has been vacant since April 2022. The spacious 2,100 sq ft venue will span two floors, offering more than 200 covers. Bringing locals the chance to enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza, fan-favourite dips and classic Italian desserts right on their doorstep, this will be Rudy’s first site in Cambridge and its 35th neighbourhood restaurant in the UK. Rudy’s dough is made fresh daily using 00 Caputo flour which ferments for at least 24 hours, alongside quality ingredients from Naples, including San Marzano tomatoes grown on fields next to Mount Vesuvius and fior di latte mozzarella. An ever-changing choice of specials are created by its team of pizzaioli, inspired by travels and partnerships with famous pizzerias around the world. Visit rudyspizza.co.uk/location/cambridge to find out more and claim your free pizza! PIZZERIA MARKS OPENING WITH HUGE GIVEAWAY!
Culinary updates to whet your appetite
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ELISHA EATS
TOASTY WARM The Cherry Pit’s pumpkin pie (above) and Vanderlyle’s carrot rigatoni (top right) are perfect autumn treats
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ELISHA EATS
Prepare to savour seasonal bounty, as Elisha Young locates some of the many restaurants in Cambridge that are elevating produce through their creative menus, culinary flair and comfort food AUTUMNAL EATS I t’s that time of year again: when you look out of the window and wonder, ‘How is it dark already?’, there’s a chill in the air and lots of crisp leaves crunching underfoot.
Some people love the cooler weather and cosy nights that come with autumn. But if you’re like me and mourn summer’s end, at least we have delicious food to look forward to. Warming stews, hearty soups and stodgy puddings that stick to your ribs. October brings pumpkins, certainly, as well as apples, pears, leeks, quince, winter squash, carrots, beetroot and more. But with all these seasonal ingredients on offer, where’s the best place to enjoy them? Here are some of Cambridge’s top spots for making the most of the autumn produce. Fine dining Vanderlyle is the first restaurant I think of when it comes to seasonal dining. Tucked down Mill Road, the unassuming exterior hides one of my favourite eateries in Cambridge. The plant-focused menu highlights the best of our local produce, paired with friendly service and a beautiful interior. Each visit brings different food – but it’s always surprising, fun and delicious. October dishes at Vanderlyle have included peanut parfait and fresh dahlia petals with raspberries from Cambridge’s non-profit Cofarm and carrot rigatoni with seaweed caviar. Plus, there’s the option of a non- alcoholic drinks pairing if, like me, you’re not a big drinker but would still like the full fine dining experience. Then there’s the Michelin-starred Restaurant Twenty-Two. The most affordable way to sample the award- winning food is by ordering from the lunch menu, but you’re still treated to three courses of incredible cooking, alongside the famously good bread and butter. The hyper-seasonal menu changes continuously, but last October featured duck breast brushed with a honey soy caramel and was served with seasonal leaves from Cofarm. And the October before that it offered roasted pigeon with blackberry ketchup, Cofarm celeriac purée
See Elisha’s Instagram @elisha.eats for up-to-date reviews of eats around Cambridge sweet treat, The Linton Kitchen pairs seasonal fruit with botanical bakes to a mouthwatering effect, with a little sister cafe, Barbarella, in Chesterton. Or head to The Cherry Pit on King Street, an American diner-style cafe where you can grab a slice of pie – all made in-house – and peruse the vinyl selection. Settle down and enjoy classic apple pie in buttery pastry, topped with crumble. Or better yet, pumpkin pie. What could be more autumnal than that? that the service charge is included in the prices, so you know exactly what you’ll spend from the outset. Laidback and luscious For something a bit more relaxed, give Provenance Kitchen in Whittlesford a try. It’s best-known for the use of open fires and charcoal grills in its cooking, plus the epic Sunday roasts featuring a whole cauliflower smothered in cheese sauce. The menu centres around locally sourced and seasonal ingredients – think burrata paired with uchiki kuri squash from Flourish Produce in Hildersham, or house-cured pork with apple ketchup made using fruit from the local orchard. If you’re open to temptation for a
and savoy cabbage. In short, using fresh ingredients in interesting, delicious ways. If that feels too intimidating, the team behind Restaurant Twenty-Two recently opened Margaret’s a few doors down on Chesterton Road. This modern bistro focuses on the best of British produce, with a menu designed to reflect the time of year, support local growers and minimise waste. Visit @margaretscambridge on Instagram for some mouthwatering food photography. While we’re on the topic of modern bistros, it would be a crime not to mention Fancett’s on Mill Road. Featured in both this year’s Michelin Guide and Good Food Guide , this neighbourhood eatery serves the best of each season, sourced from small, trusted suppliers. The reservations here fill up fast (and I should know – I’ve been trying to snag a table for months), but it’s worth persisting for the food. October dishes have included cream of chestnut mushroom soup with pickled girolles, classic pear tarte tatin and an autumnal tartlet with whipped goat’s cheese, baby beetroot, black fig and chicory. I also like
If you are like me and mourn summer’s end , at least we have some delicious food to look forward to
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SEASONAL DINING
As nights draw in and temperatures descend, expect cosy ambience, comfort food and special seasonal events at these local eateries Winter warmers
Pint Shop
Christmas pudding and winter berry crumble follow, plus local cheeses from Rennet & Rind. Options for a warming tipple are fan-favourite mulled sloe gin, snowballs, cranberry bellinis and white Russians. Eat, drink and be merry! pintshop.co.uk
At Pint Shop on Cambridge’s Peas Hill, there’ll be festive feasting and boozy treats aplenty over the coming season, from autumn comfort food to Christmas knees-ups. A brand-new menu, launched for autumn, features kebab salad bowls and the substantial Mrs Bones mixed grill – a sharing feast for two or three that features Dingley Dell pork belly, Shelford sausage, lamb leg steak, bacon chop, Scotch egg and flat iron steak atop garlic flatbreads with sides and sauces. The Christmas party menu kicks off on 20 November, running all the way until Christmas Eve. This offers pork scratchings and pretzels on arrival, while starters are a sharing affair, with platters including the famous Pint Shop Scotch egg, local smoked salmon and British charcuterie. For mains, expect stuffed and rolled turkey, thick-cut sirloin of beef and hake, haddock and prawn pie, all served with bowls of fluffy roast potatoes and greens. For those with a sweet tooth, sticky toffee pudding,
Adam Smith of Coworth Park, best known for his precise, elegant cooking and background as a Roux Scholar, will be joining Mark Poynton on 8 October for a one-off collaborative dinner at the Ancient Shepherds in Fen Ditton. The evening will feature an eight-course menu, with four dishes created by each chef, designed to show off their individual styles while also coming together as a single experience. Together, Mark and Adam will create a menu that celebrates the very best of the season, including such dishes as barbecued scallop with smoked roe, citrus and golden oscietra caviar; poached cod with Mark’s signature curry sauce; Wyndford Farm wagyu with shallot, parsley and mustard; as well as apricot and almond ice cream sandwiches. The Ancient Shepherds makes the perfect backdrop for the meal, with its cosy and characterful dining room. ancientshepherds.com ANCIENT SHEPHERDS
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