Absolutely Town & Village Edition Marlow/Cookham/Bourne End November 2026 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

the TOWN & VILLAGE EDITION

MA R LOW

COOKH A M

BOURNE END

November 2026

TOM KERRIDGE Why Marlow became home and the joys of the local foodie scene FROM THE ART A Cookham walk inspired by Stanley Spencer / SUSPEND BELIEF Uncovering the story behind Marlow Bridge / WIN! A luxury stay for two in Shakespeare country

Con tents

the TOWN & VILLAGE EDITION

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA

NOVEMBER 2026

MAGAZINE DESIGNER MARIANA SUZUKI

DESIGNERS BRUNA FACCIN PAMELLA MORENO PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR ABIGAIL GARDNER

abi@zest-media.com · 07977 195732

MEDIA CONSULTANTS LOUISE PEARSON

louise@zest-media.com · 07707 802256

SHARON JOANES

sharon@zest-media.com · 07869 811290

DOROTHY GETELOMA

dorothy@zest-media.com · 07735 766156

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, JAMES FUSCHILLO

6 11 17 21 22 25

Tom Kerridge On his enduring love for Marlow he Monthly Edit Top T November events and a look ahead

Competition Win a luxury stay for two in Shakespeare country Walk A Stanley Spencer inspired stroll around Cookham Interiors Unveiling the cosy edit for winter interiors Property Behind the scenes of a Bourne End stunner

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07977 195732 or email: abi@zest-media.com

27 29 31 33 35 37

The Local List Five to make the most of British Pudding Day

Recipe Make Hanoi Turmeric Fish at home History Exploring the origins of Marlow Bridge Fashion Hush opens on Marlow High Street

124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 zest.london

Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Wellbeing Tips on how to keep active as the chill sets in Advice How to ensure everyone can enjoy fireworks this month

OWN YOUR TOWN.

Fo l l o w Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e absolutelymagazines.com

SCAN TO ADVERTISE

Put your business in front of the local homes that matter. t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

2 LETTER

XXXXXXXX • XXXXXXXX

Editor’s ABSOLUTELY’S November issue highlights

WELLBEING WAYS YOU CAN STAY HEALTHY DURING THE COLDER DAYS Page 35

THE LOCAL LIST WHERE TO INDULGE IN A GREAT BRITISH PUDDING Page 27

elcome to the very first issue of Absolutely Town & Village magazine, the Marlow, Cookham and Bourne End edition. Some of you may already know about the extensive Absolutely portfolio – including our Buckinghamshire magazine – but we felt that these three areas warranted a closer look every month. In each issue you can expect to see a whole host of regulars, from local profiles (we open with the rather fabulous Tom Kerridge) to The Monthly Edit, where we round up some of the best events to enjoy in November. There’s also our guided walk, this month inspired by the artwork of Stanley Spencer in Cookham, community news (a prickly subject kicks things off) and the ‘list’, where we visit five perfect places to celebrate this month’s British Pudding Day. You can find more local content at absolutelymagazines.com and we are keen for you all to get involved with your own stories, suggestions and surprises across Marlow, Cookham and Bourne End by emailing me at mark@zest-media.com. Together, let’s celebrate the people, places and stories that make our three communities so special.

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

COVER DISCOVER THE STORY BEHIND MARLOW BRIDGE Page 31

THE MONTHLY EDIT LOCAL EVENTS FOR YOUR CALENDAR Page 11

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE FEATURES AND INTERVIEWS

t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

XXXXXXXX • XXXXXXXX

“Marlow has this incredible vibe and a wonderful sense of community”

A B S O L U T E LY

ABSOLUTELY • PROFILE

THE HAND & FLOWERS’ CHICKEN PIE

festive FLAVOURS Tom Kerridge celebrates Marlow’s independent spirit as Christmas draws closer

ew people have done more to place Marlow firmly on Britain’s culinary map than Tom Kerridge. Yet for the acclaimed chef, the Buckinghamshire town is far more than the base for three hugely successful restaurants. It is home – and, after more than two decades, somewhere whose community spirit continues to matter deeply to him. “We’ve been in Marlow for 21 years,” he says. “It has this incredible vibe and a wonderful sense of community, which I think is really strong.” That distinctive atmosphere becomes especially evident as Christmas approaches, when the town’s elegant streets, riverside

setting and busy independent businesses create a suitably festive backdrop. Tom believes those independents are central to Marlow’s appeal. “I love the support for independents, from hairdressers and coffee shops to restaurants, clothes shops, jewellers and art galleries,” he says. “It has always been very supportive of people, as opposed to having a generic town centre. It’s also very pretty,” he adds. “It’s on the Thames and is a lovely part of the world in which to live.” Unsurprisingly, a chef with Tom’s knowledge of the local food scene has a few favourite places of his own. “Malik’s is very good, heading over into Cookham, but Malik’s in Marlow is very good too,” he enthuses. “I’m a big, big fan.” t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • PROFILE

THE COACH

“The Hand & Flowers has that lovely sense of comfort from having been here for 21 years” PIRI PIRI QUAIL AT THE COACH THE HAND & FLOWERS

Coffee comes courtesy of another independent local success story. “Coopers Coffee Shop doesn’t just serve some of the best coffee you can get in Marlow; it serves some of the best coffee you can get anywhere.” Tom’s own three Marlow establishments may sit close together, but each offers something deliberately different. “All three are pretty much on the same road, but they’re all very different – and they’re three pubs,” he explains. “One is burgers and fries with football on the television, which 8

A B S O L U T E LY

is The Butcher’s Tap & Grill. It also has a little bit of a garden where we can barbecue and grill things.” Then there is The Coach, LAMB SHANK AT TBTG which provides an intimate and theatrical approach to dining. “The Coach is a Michelin-starred pub where you can sit at the counter and watch the chefs cook.” Completing the trio is the establishment that began Tom’s enduring relationship with Marlow. “Then, obviously, there’s The Hand & Flowers, with its 15 bedrooms,” he says. “It has that lovely sense of comfort from having been there for 21 years. We’ve pushed to achieve that two-star status, and the amazing team there continues to maintain it.” As winter arrives, diners can expect British ingredients and dishes shaped by the season rather than a conventional festive formula. “We’re very lucky because we’re all British and seasonal,” Tom says. “We work really hard to use the produce available at that particular time, so game will be making an appearance.” And the festive season? “We don’t really offer a straightforward Christmas menu. We do things that are much more seasonally based, although I’m sure turkey will definitely make an appearance at The Butcher’s Tap,” he adds with a smile. tomkerridge.com

WHY ALL GIRLS?

THERE’S NO BOX TO FIT INTO Discover The Abbey - Book onto an Open Day Scan here or visit theabbey.co.uk/events to book.

Putting Girls First from Nursery to Sixth Form

5483_the-abbey_absolutley-magazine_towns-and-villages_full-page_10-26.indd 2

05/10/2026 1:41 pm

the Monthly

Edit

From art and archaeology to running, live music and village gatherings, November brings a varied programme to Marlow, Cookham and Bourne End

What a Dream From 6 November S TA N L E Y S P E N C E R G A L L E R Y, COOKHAM

Stanley Spencer and Gary Bunt: What a Dream is a joyful exhibition bringing together the work of Gary Bunt and Stanley Spencer for the first time. Through paintings, sculpture and sketches, discover two artists who found beauty, humour and unexpected moments of wonder in everyday life. stanleyspencer.org.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

Marlow AFTER DARK 12 November P O R T L A N D A L L E Y, M A R L O W

Marlow’s connection with Frankenstein author Mary Shelley inspires this atmospheric Bucks History Month event. Beginning beside Côte Brasserie in Portland Alley, Mary Does Marlow Does After Dark promises a fresh encounter with one of the town’s most fascinating literary stories and the places associated with it. ticketsource.co.uk

Nick Heyward 27 November H O LY T R I N I T Y C H U R C H , COOKHAM

Haircut One Hundred frontman Nick Heyward brings his intimate solo tour to Holy Trinity Church. Audiences can expect acoustic versions of enduring favourites alongside stories from a career stretching back to the early 1980s. Doors open at 6.45pm and advance booking is advisable. gigantic.com t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

Life as a Celebrant 24 November

BOURNE END COMMUNITY CENTRE

Celebrant Ann Vincent presents Four Weddings, Three Funerals and a Naming Ceremony at Bourne End and District u3a’s monthly meeting. Beginning at 2pm, the largely light-hearted talk examines the skills behind the profession, the history of marriage and how younger generations are changing modern ceremonies. bourneendu3a.org.uk

Marlow Half Marathon

Digital Café

MARLOW

MARLOW LIBRARY

Bonfire Night

Village Club AGM

COOKHAM DEAN

1 November

Marlow Striders’ annual running event returns with three testing options: the flagship half marathon, seven-mile race and Frankenstein challenge. The undulating routes take competitors through Marlow and the surrounding Chiltern countryside, while spectators can support runners. marlowhalfmarathon.co.uk

7 November

Cookham Dean Village Club stages its annual bonfire and firework display on the Old Cricket Common. Running from approximately 5pm-8pm, the evening is expected to include warming food and drinks, a lantern procession, bonfire and fireworks. Final timings will be confirmed soon. cookhamdeanvillagehall.com

A B S O L U T E LY

10 November

Anyone struggling with a smartphone, tablet or laptop can take their questions to Marlow Library’s Digital Café. Running from 11am-noon, the friendly drop-in session offers practical assistance with everyday online tasks and digital devices, helping to build confidence with technology. mymarlow.co.uk

11 November

VILL AGE CLUB

Residents can discover more about the organisation at the heart of Cookham Dean when the Village Club holds its annual general meeting. Beginning at 8.15pm, the gathering is open to everyone and offers an opportunity to hear plans and how to get involved locally. cookhamdeanvillagehall.com

ABSOLUTELY • DIARY Medieval Cookham 19 November

C O O K H A M PA R I S H CENTRE

Archaeologist Paul Seddon explores the Archaeology of Cookham Church Paddock and medieval Cookham during Cookham Arts Club’s AGM and talk. Taking place from 2pm-4pm, it promises an intriguing look beneath the familiar village landscape. cookhamartsclub.com

Business Mastermind 17 November MARLOW

Remembrance Parade 8 November MARLOW

Marlow gathers to honour those who served and died in conflict at its annual Remembrance Parade and Service. Organised by Marlow Town Council and the Royal British Legion, the event traditionally brings together veterans, uniformed organisations, civic representatives and residents for one of the town’s most important public commemorations. visitthames.co.uk

Local entrepreneurs can make new connections at the Marlow Networking and Business Mastermind morning. Running from 9.30am-11.30am, the session is designed for women founders seeking constructive conversation, shared experience and practical input from fellow business owners. coco-womenfounders.com

book

AHEAD It’s a Wrap, 5 December Reflect on the past year and plan positively for 2027 during this interactive wellbeing workshop at Norden Farm. Marlow Artisan Food and Craft Market, 12 December Browse work by independent producers at Marlow’s regular artisan market. Three Crayon Portrait Workshop, 12 December Artist Jo Hall leads this daylong Norden Farm workshop. Twinkle Twinkle, from 15 December Norden Farm presents a gentle family show inspired by Jane Taylor’s famous poem The Star.

t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • CHRISTMAS

Full of

SURPRISES THE PLANNING STARTS NOW... CHRISTMAS IN MARLOW, COOKHAM & BOURNE END

EDITOR’S PICK

Marlow Christmas Lights Switch-On 19 November Marlow begins the season with its traditional lights switch-on in the town centre. Expect illuminated streets, entertainment and an opportunity to combine the celebrations with some late shopping or supper. Further programme details will be announced by Marlow Town Council. Cookham Dean Christmas Tree Lighting 29 November Gather outside Cookham Dean Village Club as the village Christmas tree is illuminated. Taking place from 5pm to 7pm, this friendly community celebration offers a gentler alternative to the larger town-centre switch-ons and should appeal particularly to families and Cookham residents.

Christmas Wreath Making Academy 1-3 December Create a handsome wreath for your front door at this festive workshop at Pinder Hall in Cookham. All three dates offer an enjoyable opportunity to learn floristry techniques and produce something personal for Christmas. Places are ticketed, so early booking is advisable. Search the event title through Eventbrite.

Bourne End Fun Night 4 December Bourne End’s big seasonal night out brings festive activity to The Parade and the surrounding village centre. Previous celebrations have combined stalls, entertainment, children’s attractions, late opening and appearances from Father Christmas. Check local publicity nearer the time for final timings. Marlow Santa Fun Run 6 December Thousands of redsuited runners will fill Higginson Park for Marlow’s wonderfully cheerful 5km Santa’s Fun Run. Walk, jog or race the route while raising money for a chosen charity. The event welcomes different ages and abilities, making it as much a community spectacle as a sporting challenge. t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • COMPETITION

WIN!

A two-night break in Shakespeare country worth £500

et in the picturesque hamlet of Charlecote, in the heart of Shakespeare Country, the Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant is one of Stratford-upon-Avon’s most charming places to stay. Recently refurbished to celebrate the area’s Shakespearean heritage, it offers a stylish and welcoming base for relaxing and exploring a region filled with history, culture and countryside charm. Your prize includes a two-night stay in a suite with breakfast, a twocourse dinner with a bottle of fizz on the first night, and a champagne afternoon tea for two. Originally Benham’s Farm and dating back to the 16th century, the hotel is set within landscaped gardens and retains plenty of period character, from original beams to exposed

Escape to Warwickshire and enjoy a two-night break in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by beautiful countryside and rich cultural heritage. TO E N T E R -

Visit our competitions page at absolutelymagazines.com/win, where you will be able to see full T&Cs for this fantastic prize

brickwork. Following its recent refurbishment, many guestrooms now feature a stylish Shakespeareinspired theme, reflecting the hotel’s proximity to the Bard’s birthplace. Located just five miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, it is ideally placed for discovering the area’s many attractions. The hotel is a short walk from National Trust-owned Charlecote Park, where visitors can enjoy scenic walks through gardens and deer-filled parkland, as well as explore a grand 16th-century country house. Warwick Castle, with its live jousting, dungeons and interactive exhibits, is only a

15-minute drive away. In Stratford-upon-Avon itself, guests can visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, take a bus, boat or walking tour, and enjoy shops, restaurants, bars and performances by the Royal Shakespeare Company. With plenty of time to relax and explore, this countryside getaway promises a memorable stay in a peaceful setting. Find out more at charlecotepheasanthotel.co.uk

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The prize is for two adults sharing a suite. It includes a two-course dinner for two people with a bottle of Prosecco, an afternoon tea for two people and breakfast for two people. It is valid until 31/03/27. Prize is subject to availability. It is non-transferable, and no cash alternatives apply.

t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

CHRISTMAS 2026

Everything you want and need, at Eden High Wycombe, HP11 2DQ

edenshopping.co.uk

Everything you want at need at Eden_Absolutely Town & Village.indd 2

@edenhighwycombe

02/10/2026 16:53

ABSOLUTELY • COMMUNITY

There are some easy and effective ways to improve your garden for hedgehogs this winter

Prickly Protection WILD MARLOW ON HOW WE CAN HELP OUR HEDGEHOGS THROUGH THE WINTER

s temperatures start to drop this winter, hedgehogs will be searching for cosy places to hibernate in our gardens. Whether your garden is naturally wild or more formal, there are some easy and effective ways to improve your garden for hedgehogs. Our gardens are fundamental for the survival of our urban hedgehog population. The State of Britain’s Hedgehogs Report 2022 reveals a decline of 30-75% since 2000, but it has also shown that urban hedgehog

populations appear to have stabilised. Connections between gardens act as safe highways for hedgehogs and the simple concept of leaving a gap in fences has been very effective for the Hedgehog Highways project. A natural pile of logs with a groundlevel opening makes a perfect shelter for our prickly companions. It could be the chosen site for hibernation and even more magical would be a nesting site for a female in the summer months. If you have a formal garden then tucking a wooden hedgehog house in a quiet, sheltered spot will still be a good option for hedgehogs.

Wilder gardens support more invertebrates, which are vital for a hedgehog’s diet. Increased use of pesticides and slug repellents has meant that it is not so simple for hedgehogs to find a tasty meal. Please stop the use of these toxic chemicals! As cold temperatures cause puddles and ponds to freeze, it’s important to keep a shallow water dish regularly defrosted with hot water for the hedgehogs. Although they hibernate, they are known to periodically rouse from sleep and a water source is vital. Please create these fantastic connected highways through gardens to ensure a diverse buffet of food, offer those sheltered spots and maintain a water source to help our hedgehog populations thrive in Marlow. Find out more tips and information at wildmarlow.org.uk t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • WALK

3 Walking into ART THIS SPECIAL COOKHAM STROLL IS A REMINDER OF AN ARTISTIC LEGACY IN THE AREA

o Sir Stanley Spencer, Cookham was not simply home, but “a village in Heaven”. Its familiar lanes, gardens, riverbank and residents fed an extraordinary imagination, making this gentle walk through the village feel rather like stepping into one of his paintings. Begin at the Stanley Spencer Gallery on the High Street. Appropriately, it occupies the former Wesleyan chapel Spencer attended with his mother as a child. From here, continue past Fernlea, the house where he was born in 1891, before making for the war memorial and Holy Trinity Church. Spencer frequently placed religious scenes within recognisable Cookham surroundings, transforming neighbours and everyday village life into something sacred. The

churchyard, High Street and nearby homes all became part of his intensely personal vision. Follow the route towards Cookham Moor and the Thames, landscapes that recur throughout his work. Although the village has inevitably changed, many of the views remain identifiable, particularly around the church, riverbank and Cock Marsh. Relevant for this month, the walk also offers an opportunity to explore Spencer’s wartime experiences. He served with the Royal Army Medical Corps in Bristol and Macedonia during the First World War. Those experiences later inspired his monumental paintings for Sandham Memorial Chapel in Hampshire. Finish back in the High Street, allowing time to visit the gallery and compare the Cookham of today with Spencer’s painted “Heaven”.

Places to PAUSE

STANLEY SPENCER GALLERY See the artist’s work before following his footsteps. HOLY TRINITY CHURCH Explore the churchyard and Spencer connections. COOKHAM MOOR Pause beside the waterways before continuing towards the Thames.

t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

The COSY EDIT HOW TO ENSURE YOUR HOME OFFERS A WARM WELCOME THIS WINTER

22 A B S O L U T E LY

ABSOLUTELY • INTERIORS

Choose a restrained palette of rust, ochre, chocolate, moss or burgundy

s November draws in, creating a warmer, more inviting home does not have to mean a complete seasonal makeover. Interior experts often begin with texture, lighting and scent: three relatively simple elements capable of changing how a room feels almost instantly. Start by layering tactile fabrics. A wool throw draped over a sofa, velvet cushions and a deep-pile rug will soften harder surfaces while helping living spaces feel insulated from the weather outside. Rather than introducing every autumnal shade at once, choose a restrained palette

A L L YO U N E E D of rust, ochre, chocolate, moss or burgundy, balanced by warm neutrals. Lighting is equally important. Replace harsh overhead illumination with several lower-level sources, including table lamps, wall lights and reading lamps. Bulbs with a warmwhite temperature of around 2,700K create a gentle glow, while candles bring movement and atmosphere. Mirrors positioned near lamps can amplify the effect without making a room overly bright. Natural materials provide another layer of warmth. Timber, woven baskets, ceramics and seasonal foliage make interiors feel grounded and lived-in. Fragrance should remain

Tick off the cosy formula

One warm light source Two contrasting textures One natural material One rich accent colour One comforting fragrance One inviting place to sit

subtle: cedarwood, amber, fig and smoky vanilla offer seasonal depth without overwhelming the room. Finally, consider where people naturally gather. Move an armchair closer to the fire, place a lamp beside a favourite reading spot and keep blankets within easy reach. The cosiest homes are not simply decorated for winter; they are arranged around comfort. t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • PROPERTY

S Above IT ALL

Contemporary hillside living meets spectacular views, privacy and effortless entertaining

ome homes are designed around their interiors; Westerly has been shaped by everything visible beyond its windows. Set high on Harvest Hill, this striking contemporary residence uses expansive glazing, balconies and terraces to make the Thames Valley landscape part of everyday life. The six-bedroom home offers approximately 9,530 sq ft across three levels. An impressive reception hall leads into beautifully connected family, drawing and dining spaces, with bi-fold doors opening onto a broad roof terrace. It creates a natural setting for large gatherings, while the house’s generous proportions ensure there are quieter corners. The kitchen combines sleek cabinetry and granite surfaces with Gaggenau ovens, a Barazza induction hob, wine cooler, Quooker tap and floor-to-ceiling pantry. It is practical enough for breakfast yet polished enough to become the focus of an evening’s entertaining. Downstairs, the mood changes from elegant to indulgent. A games room and gym flow into a cinema room, while doors open directly onto the heated outdoor swimming pool and wraparound

At a glance • Westerly is offered at £5.5 million, call Savills Marlow on 01628 499900. • Marlow is 4.8 miles away and Beaconsfield 4.1 miles. • Nearby schools include Sir William Borlase’s Grammar, Wycombe Abbey and Herries. • Surprisingly, Bourne End only acquired its present name following the arrival of the railway.

terrace. Two en-suite bedrooms create private accommodation for guests. The principal bedroom has two dressing rooms, an en-suite bathroom and a balcony overlooking the surrounding countryside. Three further bedrooms are also en-suite. Outside, approximately half an acre includes landscaped gardens, mature planting, a water feature and several places to dine or relax. Gated access, CCTV and a triple garage reinforce the feeling of a secluded private retreat, despite Bourne End’s excellent connections.

t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • FAB FIVE

The Hand & Flowers, Marlow thehandandflowers.co.uk Britain’s first pub to receive two Michelin stars naturally takes dessert seriously, and although we have already visited this issue, it has to be on this list. The Hand & Flowers combines technically accomplished cooking with the generous spirit of a proper pub. Its regularly changing menu makes November an enticing time to discover the kitchen’s latest seasonal creation.

The local LIST FIVE TO MAKE THE MOST OF BRITISH PUDDING DAY ON 9TH NOVEMBER

Bel & The Dragon, Cookham belandthedragon.co.uk Housed inside one of Cookham’s oldest coaching inns, Bel & The Dragon is particularly appropriate for celebrating a great British culinary tradition. It has a dedicated pudding menu, while log fires, historic beams and inviting interiors provide just the atmosphere required for a November treat.

The Vanilla Pod, Marlow thevanillapod.co.uk Chef-owner Michael Macdonald’s intimate restaurant approaches dessert with imagination and finesse. Its seasonal menus have featured creations such as chocolate crémeux tart with lime butterscotch, panna cotta with rhubarb and ginger, and blackberry fool with doughnut. An elegant destination for making British Pudding Day feel especially indulgent.

The Spade Oak, Bourne End thespadeoak.co.uk This country pub provides a relaxed setting for a thoroughly comforting pudding. Its dessert selection favours generous crowdpleasers, with previous menus featuring crumble with custard, warm chocolate brownie, rum baba and flamboyant baked Alaska. Follow a riverside walk with lunch, then linger over something reassuringly sweet and indulgent. The White Oak, Cookham thewhiteoak.pub The White Oak’s accomplished modern British cooking extends all the way to the final course. Desserts change with the seasons, balancing refined presentation with the warmth and generosity expected of a neighbourhood restaurant. It is the kind of place where a leisurely lunch can – and really should – finish with pudding and coffee.

“ The intimate restaurant approaches dessert with imagination and finesse” t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • RECIPE

INGREDIENTS For marinating

• 1kg haddock fillets scaled, deboned and sliced into squares of approximately 8cm x 12cm • 10g minced galangal • 2g turmeric powder • 14g sugar • 10g shallots finely chopped • 3g shrimp paste • 30ml cooking oil For stir fry sauce

• 78g pork bouillon powder • 440ml water • 42g sugar • 144ml fish sauce • 3g ground black pepper Other ingredients to stir-fry with the sauce

Make it at HOME Chef Nhan Nguyen, of Marlow’s Suum Kitchen, tantalises the tastebuds with this Hanoi Turmeric Fish

Suum Kitchen

Tucked away in Marlow’s Anglers Court, Suum Kitchen brings the vibrant flavours of Vietnam to the town’s dining scene. Chef Nhan Nguyen draws on family recipes and traditional techniques, serving beautifully presented dishes in a warm and relaxed setting.

• 10g dill roughly chopped • 50g red onion thinly sliced • 50g white onion thinly sliced • 30g spring onion thinly sliced • 2 large red chillis • 10g garlic • 10ml cooking oil • 10g butter Garnish

• 15g peanuts crushed • 1 pack of fine rice vermicelli noodles • 2 litres of water

METHOD Makes six portions

01. First marinate the fish in the marinating ingredients. It is better to do this overnight if possible. 02. Heat the oil, add in the garlic and sauté the mixed onions until fragrant. Add seasoning to suit your taste. 03. Sear the fish until golden on both sides. Place onto an ovenproof tray, add the butter and grill at 180 degrees Celsius for 5 minutes. 04. Whilst the fish is cooking, place the rice noodles in a pan of boiling water for 2 minutes before removing and running under cold water. Air dry the noodles before heating to serve. 05. To plate, start with the rice noodles, add half of the sauteed mixed onions, then the fish, then the rest of the onions, the fresh dill, chilli to suit your taste, and crushed peanuts. Serve with sweet and sour dipping sauce.

suumkitchen.com

t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • HISTORY

Did You Know? -

The bridge connects two counties: Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. Its central suspended span measures approximately 235 feet. Budapest’s famous Chain Bridge shares the same designer.

Crossing TIME

Exploring the story behind Marlow’s suspension bridge

ew landmarks define Marlow as completely as its suspension bridge, linking the Buckinghamshire town with Bisham in Berkshire. Yet today’s crossing is only the latest chapter in a story stretching back over six centuries. A bridge is known to have stood here during the reign of Edward III, although an earlier crossing may have served the Knights Templar at Bisham from around 1309. The medieval structure

was timber-built and endured a turbulent history: in 1642, it was partly destroyed by Parliamentarian forces during the Civil War. A replacement wooden bridge, funded by public subscription, opened in 1789. By 1828, however, it had collapsed, creating the need for something stronger and more ambitious. Engineer William Tierney Clark supplied the answer. Built between 1829 and 1832, his suspension bridge used iron chains carried across two distinctive stone towers, with a central span of approximately 235 feet.

The result was practical but also beautiful, framing views of the Thames and All Saints’ Church. Clark later designed Budapest’s Széchenyi Chain Bridge, completed in 1849, whose resemblance to Marlow’s smaller crossing is unmistakable. Marlow Bridge was restored in 1965 and is now protected as a Grade I listed structure. Modern traffic has tested it severely, including a lorry incident in 2016, but strict weight restrictions help preserve this much-loved link between two counties – and between Marlow’s past and present. t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • FASHION

Shout ABOUT

HUSH BRINGS ITS RELAXED WARDROBE AND PERSONAL STYLING TO MARLOW HIGH STREET

arlow’s High Street is set to welcome a new fashion destination this month, when womenswear brand Hush opens its doors at 36–38 High Street. Known for clothes that feel as good as they look, the London-founded label is bringing its easy approach to dressing into a space where shoppers can linger, browse and try things on. Founded in 2003 by Australian Mandy Watkins, Hush has built a following for relaxed, versatile pieces that move comfortably between the different parts of a busy day. The Marlow store will offer its

full collection, from knitwear, denim and outerwear to footwear and accessories, alongside new arrivals and familiar favourites. For anyone who has admired a piece online but wanted to feel the fabric or check the fit before buying, the opening offers a chance to get to know Hush in person. Styling advice and outfit inspiration will be available too, whether the aim is to find one piece for autumn or put together a wardrobe with more staying power. The brand sees Marlow’s lively High Street and strong sense of community as a natural setting for a more personal shopping experience.

The latest Hush collection features knitwear, outerwear, denim, accessories and footwear

“Our customers have always connected with us online, but they also tell us how much they value the chance to experience the brand in person,” says Hush CEO Sarah Miles. With its inviting atmosphere and emphasis on clothes for real life, the new store should feel right at home in Marlow. hush-uk.com t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • WELLBEING

YOUR NOVEMBER HEALTH DIARY All month: Lung Cancer Awareness Month All month: Movember All month: Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month 14 November: World Diabetes Day 17 November: World Prematurity Day 19 November: International Men’s Day

Active

AUTUMN

From woodland walks to invigorating workouts, here’s how to keep moving through November

s November’s evenings draw in, the sofa becomes increasingly persuasive. Yet shorter days needn’t mean putting your exercise routine into hibernation. The trick is finding a rhythm that works with the season, mixing fresh air with workouts you look forward to. Start with a brisk walk. Autumn woodland, park paths

and countryside trails offer an inviting backdrop, whether you have ten minutes at lunchtime or an hour at the weekend. Walk purposefully enough to feel warmer and breathe faster, while still being able to hold a conversation. Arrange to meet a friend and it becomes a social occasion, too. For those who enjoy a greater challenge, running, swimming or an energetic indoor cycling class can bring variety to the week. Book a session in advance, join a running group or set yourself a realistic goal

to give your plans some structure. If you’re starting out, build up gradually instead of plunging straight into demanding sessions. Strength deserves a place alongside cardio. Try a gym session, resistance bands or a manageable home workout, choosing exercises appropriate to your experience. A qualified instructor can help you develop a good routine. Make autumn exercise easier with comfortable layers, suitable footwear and reflective clothing for darker outings. Keep an indoor alternative ready for wet days, and allow time for warming up and recovery. Above all, choose activities you enjoy. A routine that fits your life is far easier to sustain when the weather makes staying home tempting – and by keeping yourself moving, you are more likely to fight off those pesky winter ailments. t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • ADVICE

Now for the FUN PART…

REMEMBER, Remember…

Fireworks Night should sparkle for all the right reasons. A little preparation will help protect families, neighbours and animals

rganised displays are generally the safest way to enjoy Bonfire Night, but anyone planning fireworks at home should buy them from a reputable retailer and check for a UKCA or CE safety mark. Read every instruction in daylight, keep fireworks in a closed box and remove them one at a time. Only one responsible, sober adult should light them, using the supplied taper and standing at arm’s length.

Always observe the stated safety distance, keep spectators well back and have a bucket of water close at hand. Never return to a firework once it has been lit, even if it appears to have failed. Sparklers should be lit individually, held while wearing gloves and plunged into water afterwards; they should never be given to children under five. Bonfires must also be positioned well away from fences, sheds, trees and anything flammable. Don’t set off fireworks in streets, parks or other public places. Home fireworks are normally prohibited between 11pm and 7am, although the

Cookham Dean Bonfire night

7 November, 5–8pm Old Cricket Common hosts a lantern procession, bonfire and firework display, with warming food and drinks. The provisional schedule has the procession at 6.30pm, bonfire at 7pm and fireworks at 7.15pm. A donation of £20 per family is suggested.

Bonfire Night cut-off is midnight. Animals need consideration too. Tell neighbours, farms and stables about your plans, choose lower-noise fireworks and keep the display brief. Pet owners should walk dogs before dark and bring cats and dogs indoors well before the noise begins. Close windows and curtains, play familiar music and create a quiet hiding place, allowing frightened animals to retreat without being coaxed out. Outdoor rabbits and guinea pigs need extra bedding and partially covered accommodation. If a pet has severe noise anxiety, consult a vet in advance. t h e TOW N & V I L L AG E E D I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY • PUZZLES Q U I C K C R O S S WO R D

The nine Across answers reveal a hidden Down answer in the central column.

CLUES 1. Part of a play or film (5) 2. Central subject or idea (5) 3. Hint that helps solve a mystery (4) 4. Person who prepares a publication (6) 5. Furniture with a flat top (5) 6. Something awarded to a winner (5) 7. Contests played for enjoyment (5) 8. Raised area used by performers (5) 9. Organised public occasion (5) 10. DOWN Mark a special or happy occasion (9)

Put to the TEST GIVE YOUR BRAIN A WORKOUT WITH PUZZLES FOR GROWN-UPS AND YOUNGER READERS ALIKE

SUDOKU

Complete every row, column and 3×3 box with the numbers 1–9.

KIDS’ CORNER

Autumn word search: words may run across, down, backwards or diagonally. Find these words:

ACORN, APPLE, AUTUMN, BOOTS, CONKER, LEAF, OWL, RAIN

Answers will be revealed in the next issue.

Don't want to wait a month? SCAN THE QR CODE

38 A B S O L U T E LY

Love your garden, but need some help? Let our expert family-run team make the most of your outdoor space

Garden Tidies & Clearance · Tree Care, Pruning & Removal · Hedge pruning · Turfing Fencing Installation & Replacement · Planting Design · Fully Insured & Highly Qualified

CALL US TODAY FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE:

01628 947470

Professional, reliable & affordable bloomtreecare.co.uk

yourgardener@bloomgardenservices.co.uk

bloomgardenservices.co.uk

PROUDLY SERVING MARLOW, BOURNE END, COOKHAM AND SURROUNDING AREAS