SAFFRON WALDEN
A PINCH OF SAFFRON GOOD NEIGHBOURS A STONE’S THROW FROM CAMBRIDGE, SAFFRON WALDEN IS THE REGION’S HIDDEN GEM
hile Cambridge is full to bursting with arts, culture, communities and events, venturing outside of
the city is well worth going the extra mile. Ely, Anglesey Abbey and Newmarket are among the best-known stop-offs, but Saffron Walden is perhaps the most overlooked outing, just over the border into Essex. This is despite boasting its own historic market, medieval town centre, museums, galleries, lush gardens and a host of Saffron Walden’s foremost music venue, this is the perfect spot to catch some talent. Shows to have on your radar include the London Community Gospel Choir on 11 July; a thunderous performance of Beethoven by The Aurora Orchestra on 31 July as part of Cambridge Summer Music Festival; a rhapsodic rendition of Gershwin from The National Youth Orchestra on 5 August; and an outdoor theatrical escapade with Alice in Wonderland from 19 to 20 August. saffronhall.com AUDLEY END MINIATURE RAILWAY From 23 July until 4 September, the resident explorer at this beloved family attraction will be guiding visitors through a woodland teeming with magical creatures as part of their summer festival. Little ones will also have the chance to try their hand at being a nature detective. The entertainment continues over at an adventure area chock-a-block with activities, polished off with a fun interactive show at the Woodland Stage. Booking in advance is essential. audley-end-railway.co.uk WEEKEND WONDERS An event that only comes round once every three entrancing independent shopfronts. SAFFRON HALL years, the 8 Day Weekend returns to Saffron Walden Common this month with live bands, a club night and family fun. Taking to the stage are nostalgic favourites such as Toploader, Chesney Hawkes and B*Witched, as well as London Community Gospel Choir and the dazzling One Night of Queen. The festival begins on 8 July, with advance booking recommended for events. 8dayweekend.co.uk TREAT YOURSELF Round off your trip with a bite to eat at chic artisan bakery Mini Miss Bread on Church Street, open Wednesday to Saturday. Be warned, the pristine pastries, bakes and cakes disappear fast. Delicious deli offerings from carefully selected suppliers are also available if you’re after a more substantial eat. A couple of streets away, Bicicletta is another brilliant brunch haunt, with an aptly bicycle-themed menu. The Piano, just moments from the market, is loved by locals and ideal for winding down after your whirlwind tour of the market.
WORDS BY MIRIAM BALANESCU
TOP DAYS London Community Gospel Choir (top), Audley End Miniature Railway
(middle) and Mini Miss Bread
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK JULY 2022 69
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