Book Review: The Gingerbread Café by Anita Faulkner

 

Can Gretel find the recipe for the perfect Christmas? 

The Gingerbread Café is always full of Christmas magic. Come rain or shine (or even a July heatwave), there's always a hot chocolate bursting with cinnamon and marshmallows waiting for you. For introverted Gretel, it's been the perfect escape from 'real life'. The owner, Nell, is Gretel's last link to her late mum, and hiding out at the café feels so much safer than making new friends.

So when Nell suddenly passes, Gretel is left heartbroken. Then she discovers that Nell has left the café to her - but there's a catch. Gretel has to share the running of The Gingerbread Café with the least festive person ever: Nell's nephew, Lukas. Head chef at the local fancy restaurant, Lukas makes it clear he has no time for the café, Gretel or even Christmas itself, and Gretel's too busy struggling to save her burnt batches of gingerbread to work out why.

Gretel is determined to keep Christmas alive and make the café a success before Lukas hands the keys over to the scrooge-like developers. But she can't do it alone; besides an over friendly ferret and a waitress with a secret, the only person she has now is Lukas. Will it take a Christmas miracle to get the pair to finally see eye to eye, or could the ice already be melting?

'Full of fun and colour' Bella Osborne

'Bursting with character and warmth' Christie Barlow

'Heart-warming and uplifting' Holly Martin

In this sweet and cosy small town romance, I really felt drawn in by Gretel's situation. She was obviously still grieving and living with anxiety, using Christmas as her comfort blanket. I enjoyed watching her slowly come out of her shell, making friends with the lovely community of fellow shop owners, who each had something to teach her about life. 

Gretel learns to trust people, and life, again and by the end of the book the little band of friends in Green Tree Lane felt like mine too.

4.5/5

If you would like to know more about Anita, please visit her website:

Anita's Homepage - Anita Faulkner

Or if you fancy a Christmas romance which still brings the heat (not just because part of the novel is set in Capri), you might want to try my debut novel Christmas Evie which is available on all e readers now:

"Evie, a dating disaster, agrees to go on a date with one of her friend's brothers. It has nothing to do with Nathaniel, the hot guy working at the tea rooms or the King Clause, which means she's to be married by Christmas.

Nathaniel offers to look after his sister Rosalie's tea rooms while she's in hospital. It has nothing to do with the fact he thinks the owner of the florist opposite the tea rooms is 'the one.' Nor his mistake in telling his mum he'll be bringing home a girl to Capri for Christmas. Or forgetting to tell Evie he has a twin.

A case of mistaken identity threatens to turn Christmas, and Evie's dreams, into more than a dating disaster. With her heart at stake, can she set her future on the right twin?"

Smashwords Link:

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1479377...

Also available on Apple, Rakuten and Barnes and Noble, Amazon and all other reader sites.

5 Star Reviews:

"Read the book in 1 day. Loved it" Sophie O'C, West Yorkshire, England

"I'm hooked" Barbara W, New Zealand

Five things to do in London this week

 With thanks to Country and Townhouse:

December 31, 2023   |      Dear Reader, As you slip into your sparkles to ring in a new year – or, like me, slide your feet into your furry slippers, I’m taking time out to look back at our best bits of 2023. So, please settle down by the hearth and catch up on some froth and fun, along with in-depth interviews, features and trends to be mindful of. Times are a-changing seemingly more rapidly than ever before – and no doubt, 2024 will be another year full of surprises – hopefully many good, along with the undoubtedly depressing. But it behoves us to keep sharing, connecting, collaborating and finding joy in all we can – this keeps us in the great game of life – alive to it, active in it and thankful for it. Happy New Year. Have a great week. C&TH’s Top 10 Reads of 2023 Our major triumph of the year was being the first glossy magazine business in the world to achieve B Corp certification. Find out why I think the movement is such an important one and why more brands should jump on board.  I’ve always wanted a Spice Girl on our cover, and Geri Halliwell-Horner made my wishes come true. For Succession lovers, we know that the Roy family were not into labels, at least on the outside. Theirs was a quiet, understated luxury – that became a trend this year. Exemplar brand? The Row. I’m a dab hand at eating alone, having travelled quite a lot to review hotels and destinations throughout my career. I love it. My tip is to take a book with you as your companion – and ditch the phone. I’m sure you all practise safe sex, but do you practise sustainable sex? With all that rubber and waste, we charged Tessa Dunthorne with finding out some more planet-friendly alternatives. Chris van Tulleken changed the conversation around food in one fell swoop. His incredible book Ultra Processed People was groundbreaking in its scope – and terrifying in its content. Read on for why you should be avoiding ultra processed foods. Calling all TikTokers (of which I’m not one – yet – nor do I even have Instagram… Linkedin is my platform of choice – do follow me if you wish!), our team has put together the biggest trends of the year.  This year saw a collaboration with Byline Times, an independent newspaper with a mission to tell you what the mainstream media won’t. We caught up with its fascinating editor, Hardeep Matharu pre-launch. Once laughable but now eminently quaffable and outclassing its Continental rivals, this year saw a truly British wine revolution. Finally, I delved into the female funding gap, asking women entrepreneurs why they thought there is still such disparity despite more women founding businesses than ever before. Let’s hope this changes in 2024.    PRODUCT OF THE WEEK The 6-Week Hair System from CALECIM®️ Our beauty editor’s choice for combatting hair loss from seasonal stress is The 6-Week Hair System from CALECIM®️. It has also been given the thumbs up by Harley Street doctors for treating a wide range of hair loss issues, especially those that plague women, such as telogen effluvium caused by stress and illness, and androgenetic alopecia that hits the middle-aged group. Validated results are said to be visible between 6-12 weeks and is side-effect free. Now available for at-home use with supplied derma stamper. BUY NOW WHAT'S TRENDING ON C&TH How to make (and keep) your New Year’s Resolution Juno Temple: I am forever proud to be a part of AFC Richmond Inside TikTok’s Scandinavian hair trend How To Travel More Sustainably In The New Year SUBSCRIPTION OFFER Sign up for 12 print issues and instant access to every digital edition for only £39 © 2023 Country & Town House Studio 2, Chelsea Gate Studios 115 Harwood Road, London SW6 4QL, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Powered by beehiiv

 

Things to do this weekend in Leeds, London, Scotland, Ireland and more

 Got plans for the weekend? In my weekly blog post, here are a few ideas:

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A fascinating world awaits at Royal Armouries... ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌     Hello Leeds! Are we ready to bring in the new year?   Want to start 2024 with a meal that won't break the bank? Look no further than the best Leeds restaurant offers and deals. There are more tasty eats with our round-up of Veganuary must-eats.  Stuck for ideas in the Christmas-New Year limbo period? Treat yourself to a Thai massage or visit Royal Armouries to discover these five surprising things.       The Best Leeds Restaurant Offers and Deals in January   5 Surprising Things You'll Find at Royal Armouries   Everything You Need to Eat in Leeds During Veganuary   Where to Get a Traditional Thai Massage in Leeds       Get the latest news on your socials     Leeds-List.com Leeds Digital Magazines, No. 1 Aire Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4PR. Email: enquiries@leeds-list.com  Tel: 0113 3200710          Hi, Wow, we've nearly completed 2023! With around 470 live shows, around 25'000 bottles of beer downed, 38'000 cocktails consumed,1500 break-even shots sank, and around 35'000 of you our lovely customers through the door, 2023 was a great year. There's a load of elements that The Domino what it is, but most importantly it's the people who choose us for their night out, we don't take that for granted and we can't wait to make 2024 our best yet. Much Love The Domino Team   NEWS   New Years Eve 2023  Both of our New Year's Eve events have now sold out. Thanks to everyone who got tickets. You're in for one hell of a night.       THIS WEEK'S BREAK-EVEN LIQUID   Diplomatico 2008 Single Vintage  Venezuelan Rum  43.8% ABV  This single-vintage rum was produced in has spent 12 years maturing in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. There are big, bold and brooding notes of freshly ground coffee, dark chocolate, charred oak and a dollop of vanilla ice cream on the palate. It’s basically Christmas in a bottle. Delicious. Our Price £5.50 Usual Price £24.50     THIS WEEK LIVE AT THE DOMINO     SATURDAY - FUNK & GROOVE   6:00pm - 8:15pm Liam Jary Poole    Liam Jary Poole is a well known face on the Leeds music scene. Both an exceptional vocalist and guitarist, expect to hear funk soul and pop classics alongside his originals.   Advance Ticket   8:30pm - 11:00pm Cleve Freckleton and The Domino Funk and Soul Band    The funkiest house band in the country are back! Featuring the legendary Haggis Horns Rhythm section alongside The Reverand Cleve 'Funky Butt Chunky' Freckleton.   Advance Ticket   11:15pm - 2am The House Band             Featuring an all-star cast from Leeds thriving Jazz-Soul and Funk scene, the house-band was built from the ground up with a mission to get people dancing.   Advance Ticket   SUNDAY - NEW YEARS EVE   11:15pm - 2am New Years Eve              Both of our New Year's Eve events have now sold out. Thanks to everyone who got tickets. You're in for one hell of a night.     Facebook Instagram Website Email       The Domino Club, The Grand Arcade, Leeds (map)

Cheers to the new year.       Performance & dance at the Southbank Centre FIND OUT MORE   Final countdown The clocks are starting to tick down to the new year and the curtains are soon to fall on our wondrous winter shows. It's your last chance to enjoy magical puppet show The House With Chicken Legs, and uproarious comedy from Reuben Kaye, among other top picks, so make sure you've booked your seats. And join us at the start of 2024 for a joyful celebration of queer community in music theatre piece The Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions. Take a look at our blog below for more insight into the exciting adaptation. Plus, it won't be long until Imagine Children's Festival returns for flat-out family fun in February.   Fantasy meets liberation     The Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions THU 25 – SUN 28 JAN This radical and playful adaptation of the cult book brings together theatre, dance and song for the ultimate anarchic bedtime story, retelling world history through a queer lens. ★★★★ 'a genuinely fresh and distinctive new work that gladdens the heart' The Stage   book now →     PERFORMANCE & DANCE   Güldür Güldür THU 29 FEB With light-hearted wit abounding, this uproarious show delves into the humour of daily life, family, love, fame, technology and football friendships.   Final shows     The House with Chicken Legs UNTIL SAT 30 DEC It's your last chance to catch Sophie Anderson’s much-loved novel brought to life with magical puppetry and live music, from Olivier-nominated theatre company Les Enfants Terribles. ★★★★ ‘magically inventive and involving’ The Stage British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Thu 28 Dec, 7pm     Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back UNTIL SAT 30 DEC Fast, on the edge and brutally funny – don't miss Australian comedian Reuben Kaye, here to tear the world apart and put it back together. ★★★★★ 'It makes for a damn near perfect example of the art of cabaret' The Reviews Hub   book tickets →     PERFORMANCE & DANCE   Nutcracker UNTIL SAT 6 JAN Not to be missed, Tchaikovsky’s classic festive ballet is reimagined and transported to the Tuff Nutt Jazz Club, with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie. ★★★★ ‘Grab a ticket if you want a genuinely new take on the traditional tale’ Broadway World     PERFORMANCE & DANCE   Nutcracker Nights UNTIL SAT 6 JAN Make a night of it when our pop-up jazz club stays open after select performances of Nutcracker, with dancing and an exclusive live jazz show.     PERFORMANCE & DANCE   Bluey’s Big Play UNTIL SUN 7 JAN There’s not long left to see Bluey as you’ve never seen it before, brought to real life in this UK premiere of the live theatre show. Relaxed Performances: Fri 29 Dec, 4.30pm & Wed 3 Jan, 11am British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Fri 29 Dec, 4.30pm & Fri 5 Jan, 2pm   A festival for families     There's a Monster in Your Show WED 7 – FRI 9 FEB Expect playful fun in this high-energy interactive musical show from Who’s in Your Book? series author Tom Fletcher. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Thu 8 Feb, 1.30pm This event is a Relaxed Performance (RP)     Chotto Desh FRI 9 & SAT 10 FEB Akram Khan Company’s dance-theatre production creates a compelling tale of a boy’s dreams and memories, from Britain to Bangladesh. Audio Described and Touch Tour: Sat 10 Feb, 6.30pm This event is a Relaxed Performance (RP)     Starchitects: A Cosmic Adventure THU 15 – SAT 17 FEB Get ready for a joyful, cosmic spectacle by Motionhouse, telling the story of five children who dream of reaching the moon from their bedroom. Audio Described and Touch Tour: Fri 16 Feb, 11am This event is a Relaxed Performance (RP)   more Imagine Children's Festival →   BLOG       The Faggots and Their Friends... ‘provocation goes hand in hand with reclamation’ Ahead of The Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions in January, discover how the cult book was brought to life by composer Philip Venables and director Ted Huffman.    read now →   FROM OUR FRIENDS   Fortune Feimster SAT 27 JAN | UNION CHAPEL This is confessional comedy to bring people together, showing audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and sexual orientations that common ground is only a joke or two away.     WHAT'S ON      VISIT      MEMBERSHIP & SUPPORT   Thanks for reading. We hope you enjoyed your specially selected highlights. Share your comments and photos with us by mentioning @southbankcentre or @haywardgallery.     Southbank Centre is a charity registered in England and Wales No.298909. Registered office: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Awaken your full potential

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VIEW ALL OFFERS #Champneys Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Please see individual website pages for individual offer terms and conditions. We are unable to view any replies to this email, please visit our website FAQs for any queries or contact us directly on 0343 226 2222. Champneys Henlow Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales. Company number 1297142. VAT No. 321 7041 04. 16 Great Queen Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2B 5AH

WHAT’S EXCITING ME THIS WEEK

Dry January

I managed eight months off the booze last year. It definitely did wonders for my sleep, so as we slip into Dry January, I’ll be checking out a new wave of non-alcoholic wines to see if they’ve improved from the Ribena-like confections of yore.

BBC/Oxford Film and Television

The Royals

From this year’s hardest working royal (I’m sure you can guess who that is) to a new documentary that goes behind the scenes of the King’s Coronation, I’d say the slimmed-down family have ridden the waves of fortune and misfortune well. And I’m personally loving Catherine’s glammed-up new look.

TikTok’s Biggest Food Trends

What do butter candles, tinned fish and ‘girl dinner’ all have in common? They’re all viral on Tiktok, of course. Our favourite Chinese app has the power to make the ridiculous into the sublime.

FIVE THINGS NOT TO MISS

In charge of cooking the roast tomorrow? A chef shares his top tips for mastering the Christmas lunch.

From food bank donations to volunteering, these are some ways to help those in need during the winter season.

Catch up on the TV you missed this year – here are the best box sets to binge during Twixmas.

Pick up some fresh Devon produce at The Black Farmer’s new flagship store in Brixton Village.

Give yourself something to book forward to in January by booking tickets to Wilderness Reserve’s food festival, YOXMAN.

WHAT'S TRENDING ON C&TH

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London’s most star-studded neighbourhoods

Enjoy the festive season  There's plenty to see and do across our museums    Escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday season with a visit to our museums. Get creative with Drawn Together at the Museum or welcome in 2024 with Sprogmanay. At the National Museum of Rural Life, celebrate the season with Clyde's Winter Trail or enjoy a winter walk around the National Museum of Flight. Get ahead of the crowd and book now for Wildlife Photographer of the Year, which opens Saturday 20 January at the National Museum of Scotland.    Plan your visit   What's on over the festive season     Event   National Museum of Scotland   Drawn Together    Wed 27–Fri 29 Dec   Read more   Event   National Museum of Scotland   Sprogmanay   Mon 1 Jan    Read more     Museum Late: Big Burns Ceilidh    Our Museum Lates return on Fri 26 Jan with a Scottish twist. So grab your pals for one of the biggest ceilidhs in Edinburgh.    Book your ticket   Burns for Bairns    Join us at the National Museum of Scotland on Sat 27 Jan to celebrate Robert Burns' birthday with family-friendly stories and activities.    Read more     What's on across our sites      Event   National Museum of Rural Life    Tractor Tots   From Mon 22 Jan    Book now   Event    National Museum of Scotland    Curiosity Club    Sat 20 Jan & 24 Feb   Book now      What's on the blog    As part of Disability History Month, discover objects in our collection connected to people in the past and present with disabilities, bodily differences or impairments.   Read more     Rising Tide panel discussion   Event | National Museum of Scotland   Voices of the Sea: From Orkney to Oceania    Sat 3 Feb    Explore the importance of the sea to island communities in Scotland and the Pacific.    Book now   Christmas gifts    Shop our exclusive range of gifts this Christmas.   Shop online Gift Membership    Give memories that will last a lifetime with the gift of Membership.   Buy now   Kelly Knox wearing the Vine Arm © Omkaar Kotedia  Raise a Paddle © Fenton Lutunatabua / 350.org   Connect with us     Our mailing address is: National Museums Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF   © National Museums Scotland. Scottish Charity SC011130

 

HEARTFELT WISHES FROM SCOTLAND All of us at VisitScotland would like to wish you a joyful Christmas and happy New Year!   Explore Scotland’s winter wonderland and let nature's beauty inspire you to slow down, recharge, and dream of the adventures that await in the coming year. Discover Winter Wonders Travel Accommodation Attractions VisitScotland4 East Market Street, Edinburgh, EH8 8BG VAT No. 945 652106

Who's up for an adventure?     Who's up for an adventure? There are scenic routes and then there's the Ring of Kerry! Explore mountains, beaches, ancient islands and friendly locals on this spectacular coastal tour.     Immerse yourself in luxury in Northern Ireland Centuries of history, Titanic attractions and deserted beaches all to yourself, and it's all there for the taking. Discover Northern Ireland's luxurious side.   Ireland's sports quiz From the epic game of hurling to the skilled art of golf, explore Ireland's competitive spirit with this sports quiz!     Ireland hosted its own Olympics long before Ancient Greece Known as the Tailteann Games, this sporting competition lasted almost a millennia.   Join our Community Your opportunity to ask questions and share trip experiences. Let's be Social Follow us on Instagram for daily trip inspiration   Get social. Follow us. Explore Ireland> Trip Ideas> Things to do> Accommodation>

[ ] Small Group Trips Private Tours Luxury Travel Blog       New Year, New Adventures         Hi,         We hope you had a very festive Christmas. Here in Ireland, we’ve been enjoying time with family, long wintery walks, and evenings spent around a crackling fire. Looking ahead to 2024, we’ve decided to keep anticipation alive by giving all our travellers the chance to win their next Wilderness trip. Everyone booking a guided, private, self guided, or custom trip between the 28th of December and the 31st of January will be entered into our prize draw with the chance of travelling with us for free. So, if an adventure is on your mind, simply book before the 31st January and enjoy the chance to explore Ireland on us.       Book Now         Explore Hiking Trips View Trips         Explore Biking Trips View Trips         Our holidays reviewed in your words…     One if the greatest trips I have ever taken. I loved all of it and will recommend it wholeheartedly and without reservation!      Christine Lawson - 15/07/2023 Bike Tour - Donegal From Cliffs to Coast     Read More Reviews         EU: +353 (0)91 457 898 | North America: 1-844-235-6240 | email: info@wildernessireland.com         Copyright © 2019 Wilderness Ireland, All rights reserved. Wilderness Ireland, Unit 8A 1/2, Northwest Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo, Ireland

How to spend New Year's Eve with The Doyle Collection

The Kensington Hotel For an evening of opulence and glamour, join us for a sensational 5 course supper, starting with Champagne and canapés from 6pm and finishing with live music at the The K Bar from 9pm.       The Coral Room at The Bloomsbury Hotel Looking for something a little more upbeat? Head over to The Coral Room and ring in 2024 with the soulful sounds of DJ Basil and live musicians. With a disco-worthy collection of Casamigos Tequila cocktails, this is the perfect place to dance your way into the new year.     108 Brasserie & Bar at The Marylebone Hotel For those looking to spend New Year's Eve with their nearest and dearest, 108 Brasserie & Bar is the ideal spot. With doors open from breakfast to dinner, you can enjoy delicious dishes, plus our decadent choctails that are made using the finest Pierre Marcolini chocolate.     156 Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, D04 HP48, Ireland W doylecollection.com   Privacy Policy   .

Must see musicals, dazzling drama & more     You've been giving all season long, now it's time to treat yourself - after all you deserve it!   We’ve curated a list of some of the biggest shows in 2024 for you to peruse and find something for you in the new year.     Must See Musicals     The King and I Tue 9 - Sat 13 Jan 2024   The King and I is the greatest musical from the golden age of musicals – with one of the finest scores ever written including Whistle a Happy Tune and Shall We Dance.   Accessible Performances Available     Calendar Girls The Musical Tue 16 - Sat 20 Jan 2024   Written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth, Calendar Girls The Musical features unforgettable songs and every performance raises money for Blood Cancer UK.       Unfortunate - The Untold Story of Ursula The Sea Witch Thu 22 Feb - Sat 2 Mar 2024   Fresh from complete sell out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and around the UK comes this critically acclaimed smash hit parody musical.     SIX Tue 13 Aug - Sun 1 Sept 2024   The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash hit musical SIX makes its royal return to The Lowry following previous sell-out successes!   Accessible Performances Available     Dazzling Drama     Murder In The Dark Tue 23 - Sat 27 Jan 2024   A spine-chilling ghost story, turned psychological thriller starring TV and stage favourites Tom Chambers and Susie Blake.   Accessible Performance Available     The Mousetrap Mon 8 - Sat 13 Apr 2024   Now celebrating 70 years, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept millions of people from every corner of the globe on the edge of their seats. Could you be next?   Accessible Performances Available     Awe Inspiring Shows     Birmingham Royal Ballet - The Sleeping Beauty Thu 7 - Sat 9 Mar 2024   Sparkling virtuoso dance from Birmingham Royal Ballet's brilliant dancers, fairy-tale characters, dazzling spectacle, and Tchaikovsky’s glorious music.   Accessible Performances Available     The Night Sky Show Sun 10 Mar 2024   Bringing his successful sell out and highly praised show. Astronomer and author Adrian West (aka VirtualAstro) presents a spectacular experience for everyone that looks up and wonders.       Diversity Presents Supernova Fri 15 - Sat 16 Mar 2024   Supernova follows Diversity’s sold-out Connected tour, which combined playful, comedic routines with powerful statements on human connectivity.   Meet & Greet Packages Available     Blue Man Group - Bluevolution World Tour Wed 2 - Sun 6 Oct 2024   Audiences of all ages will rock, laugh and party as three bald and blue characters explore the world and discover music, comedy and surprises at every turn.   Accessible Performances Available     You May Also Like     Ben Elton - Authentic Stupidity Thu 10 Oct 2024   Ben Elton, the undisputed godfather of modern stand-up is going back on the road with his new show – Authentic Stupidity.     An Audience with Monty Don Sun 10 Nov 2024   Join BBC Gardeners’ World presenter and gardening writer, Monty Don, as he shares his passion for gardens and the unique role they play in human inspiration and wellbeing.         DEDICATED ACCESS LINE: 0161 876 2183 BOX OFFICE: 0161 876 2000   Calls are at your standard network operator's charge.   The Lowry Centre Trust is a registered charity (no. 1053962). Your support goes towards our world-class Theatre and Galleries programme, the care and display of the LS Lowry Collection and our life changing Learning & Engagement programme.   THE LOWRY  |  PIER 8  |  SALFORD QUAYS  | M50 3AZ (Company reg no. 3255905) Copyright © 2023 The Lowry, All rights reserved. All information correct at time of sending.

Our Christmas highlights, Festive Appeal stories, Artist Network news & more!     It truly has been an extraordinary year for us here at The Lowry.   From the astounding success of our record-breaking Julia and Axel – Thirty Years of Favourite Stories exhibition, to the incredible response to August’s Open Day, and culminating in a spectacular Christmas season of shows, we've been fortunate to share countless unforgettable moments in 2023.   We want to express our deepest gratitude for the support you’ve shown us throughout the year. Each event, exhibition, and show has been made even more special by your presence. So, here’s to another action-packed year of awe-inspiring events and shows!   Warmest wishes and a Happy New Year.   Festive Appeal 2023   Elyssia's Journey   See how your generous donations help change the lives of young people experiencing disadvantage in Salford. Hear Elyssia discuss what this programme of creative work means to her.     Christmas Season Highlights   Life Of Pi Audience Reactions   Life of Pi has had an overwhelming response from critics and audiences alike! With us until Sunday 7th January 2024, hear what theatregoers had to say about this ‘truly unmissable production’ (Opening Night).     A Fantastically Great Reception   Empowering pop musical Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World opened earlier this month, proving a huge hit with fans of all ages! Open until Sunday 7th January 2024, hear who audiences picked as their favourite historical figure.     Our New Winter Menu   Pier Eight Restaurant   With our showstopping winter menu just launched, lunch and pre-theatre dining options available, and breathtaking view of Salford Quays, why not treat yourself to a meal at Pier Eight this festive season?     Subscribe For The Latest Digital Content   The Lowry's YouTube Channel   Have you subscribed to The Lowry's official YouTube channel yet? Don’t miss out on our latest digital content, featuring production trailers, exhibition highlights, interviews and more.     Join Our Artist Network   Artist, Collective Or Company?   Are you an artist or do you aspire to work in the performing and visual arts industry? Then sign up to our Artist Network; a free open access creative and professional development programme, offering events, workshops, opportunities and more.         DEDICATED ACCESS LINE: 0161 876 2183 BOX OFFICE: 0161 876 2000   Calls are at your standard network operator's charge.   The Lowry Centre Trust is a registered charity (no. 1053962). Your support goes towards our world-class Theatre and Galleries programme, the care and display of the LS Lowry Collection and our life changing Learning & Engagement programme.   THE LOWRY  |  PIER 8  |  SALFORD QUAYS  | M50 3AZ (Company reg no. 3255905) Copyright © 2023 The Lowry, All rights reserved. All information correct at time of sending.     .

welcome to your December newsletter Read all our latest holiday news, inspiration and updates below. With our massive range of locations across the UK, your EPIC getaway is just a click away! take advantage of our January sale! We’ve got a fantastic offer to start the year off with a bang! If you book your 2024 holiday between now and 31st January 2024 you’ll get up to 10% off!   The offer is only valid on arrivals between 29th December 2023 and 31st December 2024. Click the button below to search for your 2024 holiday and book today! read full terms and conditions here search and book your next escape a round up of 2023 It has been another busy year for everyone at Darwin Escapes. From opening new resorts to winning awards and constant improvements to the website. Read our full round up of 2023 by clicking the link below. read the blog Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat Cockermouth, The Lake District Escape to the Lake District and enjoy a break away at Keswick Reach. The perfect getaway for all if you are looking for the ultimate base to explore all the best things that the Lake District has to offer. explore the resort book your 2024 holiday with us today! 2024 is just around the corner and it’s time to start thinking about your next holiday… Search our latest availability by clicking the link below. 2024 holidays top tips when visiting Cheddar Woods Are you thinking about visiting Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa in Somerset? Before you book make sure you read through our top tips blog which covers everything you will need to know:   🚶things to do 🛒closest shops 🍽️where to eat out & more… read the blog here escape to Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat this winter search the latest availability here Copyright (C) 2023 Darwin Escapes. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in at our website. Our mailing address is: Darwin Escapes West Road Talacre Holywell, Clwyd CH8 9SA United Kingdom

STAY       SPECIAL BREAKS       CARY SPA       DINE       OUT & ABOUT   Why plan your staycation on the South Devon coast? The UK does offer so many amazing holiday destinations: some charming countryside hideaways, cultural city breaks but most of all some wonderful hidden gems on the coastline….like the Cary Arms & Spa. If you are wondering what makes the Inn on the Beach so special, well, it’s numerous things ….first and foremost its superb and unique location! We are right on the waters’ edge of Babbacombe Bay boasting the most amazing seaviews bringing you all the wonderful benefits of the seaside water: relaxation, well-being and a lot of fun! Secondly, we’re far from a standard hotel that’s the reason why our chic Beach Huts and quirky Coastal Cottages are so popular! Last but not least our divine seasonal cuisine and holistic Gaia spa are simply exquisite ….without forgetting the friendly atmosphere and chill out vibes. This idyllic bolthole has been created so you can feel you have flown somewhere special without any passports needed! So if you are about to plan your family summer holiday, special celebration or romantic hideaway …have a look at what it could be at www.caryarms.co.uk because we would love to see you in 2024. We will only require a 10% deposit at the time of your booking with the remaining balance due 4 weeks prior to your arrival.           We look forward to seeing you in 2024 until then we wish you all a wonderful and happy New Year! Team Cary Arms                   COVID SECURE             For further details, please visit our website. To book call us on 01803 327110 or email enquiries@caryarms.co.uk.     Condé Nast Johansens Winner 2021 for “Best for Families” Visit England Awards for Excellence 2020 – Small Hotel of the Year -Silver Award Winner "Readers Award" Hotel 2020 Condé Nast Johansens National Awards for Excellence in UK & Ireland Silver Award in the Small Boutique category at the prestigious national Visit England Awards for Excellence Awards 2020 Chosen as one of “The best hotels in the UK to stay in …” GQ Magazine 2019 “The Cary Arms is sampling the top-end of the Riviera experience…” The Mail on Sunday 2019 “Britain’s Swankiest Beach Huts…” Sunday Times 2016         Forward   Tel:  + 44 (0) 1803 327110  |  www.caryarms.co.uk Cary Arms  & Spa | Babbacombe Beach | Babbacombe South Devon | TQ1 3LX | ENGLAND

get 10% off* your holiday

That’s right, we’ve got a fantastic offer to start the year off with a bang! If you book your 2024 holiday between now and 31st January 2024 you’ll get up to 10% off!   The offer is only valid on arrivals between 29th December 2023 and 31st December 2024. Click the button below to search for your 2024 holiday and book today!

search and book here

our resorts Take a look at all our resorts across the UK and find your destination with us here. our resorts

*Bookings must be made before 31st January 2024. Offer only valid on arrivals between 29th December 2023 and 31st December 2024. terms and conditions Copyright (C) 2023 Darwin Escapes. All rights reserved.

A Christmas message from the Cox Family The Cox Family and the whole team at West Dorset Leisure Holidays would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! It's been another very busy year on the Parks and you can read about that on our blog post...   2023 Recap   Make a Booking         Looking ahead to 2024 The feedback from all of you has been great and we have taken suggestions and feedback into consideration, with a lot of changes planned over the Winter period, so hopefully you will notice some differences and improvements during your 2024 holidays, here in Dorset.  While you're spending precious time with loved ones over the festive period, why not make a New Year's Resolution to continue that theme into 2024. We may be biased but we think there's no better location than the Dorset coast and countryside to spend quality time with your partner, family or friends, with long walks, great views, quality food & drink, popular attractions and spectacular beaches.  So take a few minutes over the festive period to explore our brand new website and find your perfect 2024 holiday in Dorset - just a £40 to £100 deposit is required to secure your dates and accommodation / pitch, so it couldn't be easier!   Visit the Website         Unlimited holidays in Dorset Enjoy unlimited holidays in Dorset during a 9 month season with Holiday Home Ownership on one of our 6 parks. We have a great choice of around 30 new and pre-owned caravans and lodges available for sale, with a range of sizes, styles and prices, from £16,995 to £425,000. A new development at Golden Cap Holiday Park for 2024, offers pitches of different sizes for a Holiday Home of your choice, starting at £65,995.   View Holiday Homes for Sale               Highlands End Eype Golden Cap Seatown   Graston Copse Burton Bradstock Larkfield Burton Bradstock   Sandyholme Owermoigne Eype Beach Eype         Lodges Caravans   Apartments & Bungalows Glamping   Touring & Motorhomes Camping Copyright © 2023 West Dorset Leisure Holidays, All rights reserved.