Out & About
It’s time to get wet & wild with the return of Aqua Parcs
With hopes of a summer like 2018, there’s great news for outdoors fans as Aqua Parcs at Willen Lake announces its return for 2019. Opening on Saturday 4 May, the team are back for the summer months with the promise that the park is even bigger and better this year, with new obstacles, slides and surprises.
Aqua Parcs was already one of the biggest inflatable water courses in the country, but this year it’s just got a whole lot bigger says owner, Joe Grix. “We’ve looked at what worked last year and what didn’t work so well and made changes to the course to make it even better. Plus, there are some exciting new obstacles and we’re the first to have them in Milton Keynes.”
Aqua Parcs has also made the 2019 park suitable for ages six and up (previously from eight years old) and will be putting on dedicated junior sessions to ensure little ones can explore without a worry.
The spectacular inflatable course is in excess of 120 metres long, and boasts more than 30 obstacles – including the super-fast Figure-of Eight slide, Ninja Jump, the all new Diamond, Apex and more – details and pictures will be revealed nearer the opening date.
Entrepreneurs Kieron Murty and Joe Grix are responsible for bringing the on-lake adventure to Milton Keynes.
Kieron said: “We were thrilled with the reception to Aqua Parcs last summer. People came from far and wide to have fun on the water with the obstacles, and we want to give them even more smiles this time around. We’ve put together a course that will do just that, and we can’t wait for people to see the new sections.”
The gargantuan course doesn’t just offer fun in the sun, either – as an all-weather hub, it is the perfect place to make a splash come rain or shine. 2019 also sees the introduction of exclusive hire for parties, corporate days and for school trips.
Joe added: “This really is the ideal adventure for kids of all ages. At Aqua Parcs you can let your inhibitions go and have a truly terrific time. Milton Keynes, get ready to be wowed on water!”
Aqua Parcs is patrolled by trained lifeguards at each section, however participants must be able to swim 25m unaided and be aged 6+.
Wet suit hire is included within the £20 fee and each session lasts one hour. Once given the safety brief, participants swim 10 metres out to the park and can explore and get wet and wild! Aqua Parcs will re-open on Saturday, May 4.
Nestled within the historical elegance of Brocket Hall, the renowned Auberge du Lac has proudly announced a new chapter in its storied culinary journey, spearheaded by the illustrious Chef John Barber. Having reopened its doors in May 2023 following a three-year hiatus, the restaurant has been infused with a fresh vigour, artfully blending tradition with cutting-edge culinary innovations.
Chef John Barber
Chef John Barber: A Maestro in the Kitchen
Chef Barber’s illustrious career, inspired by his mother’s home cooking, began at UCB College of Food and has spanned the globe, from the prestigious kitchens of the Belfry Hotel to the exotic locales of Thailand and Paris. His tenure at London’s Bar Boulud and the opening of 14 Hills with the D&D Group has seasoned him with an unrivaled expertise, making his tenure at Auberge du Lac a herald of culinary excellence.
Lucy Hawkins: Sustainability at Its Core
The heart of Auberge du Lac’s culinary philosophy is its kitchen garden, tenderly curated by Lucy Hawkins. This garden is not merely a plot of land; it is the cradle of sustainability, employing no-dig methods that enrich local biodiversity and allow for the freshest ingredients to be used directly in the kitchen. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this verdant sanctuary during the Garden Tour & Lunch events, connecting them intimately with the origins of their meals.
The Auberge Experience: A Symphony of Luxuries
Auberge du Lac doesn’t just stop at fine dining; it offers an immersive ‘Auberge Experience’ package. Priced at £420 per couple, this luxurious offering includes a cozy welcome with Champagne and chocolates, a seven-course tasting menu, an overnight stay in the stately Melbourne Lodge, and a full English breakfast at The Melbourne Club. Each of the lodge’s 16 luxury ensuite bedrooms offers a vista of the Hall, Broadwater Lake, and the golf course, making it an ideal retreat after a gourmet evening.
Access and Convenience
Just a stone’s throw from London, Auberge du Lac offers an escape into the countryside that’s both quick and easy. The journey from central London to the tranquility of Brocket Hall takes less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a taste of the countryside without straying far from the city’s pulse.
A Forthcoming Review
Stay tuned for an in-depth review of Auberge du Lac, where we will delve deeper into the gastronomic delights and serene ambiance that make this destination a crown jewel of culinary and leisure escapades.
Embrace the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of fine dining and bespoke luxury at Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall, where every visit promises to be more than just a meal—it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of history, taste, and lush landscapes.
On the 14th of July, the BRIT-nominated duo Jungle will host an unprecedented open-air music event at Tofte Manor, a picturesque 17th-century estate. This unique one-day festival, dubbed “Jungle Curates,” will feature a lineup exclusively selected by Jungle themselves, including some of their favorite artists, DJs, and collaborators.
Stellar Lineup in a Breathtaking Setting
The event will take place amid the stunning backdrop of Tofte Manor’s labyrinth and the surrounding rolling hills of Bedfordshire. It promises an immersive experience with bespoke production, décor, and exclusive merchandise. The lineup reflects Jungle’s significant influence on the music scene, featuring a mix of established and rising stars. Notably, BBC Radio 1 icon Annie Mac will make her Tofte Manor debut, appearing alongside Jungle. The diverse roster continues with Ross From Friends, DJ Paulette, Ahadadream, Peruvian DJ and producer Sofia Kourtesis, and London-based Mood Talk, promising a blend of house, electronica, and more.
Jungle’s Ascending Trajectory
Coming off the success of their latest album “Volcano,” Jungle has been a prominent force in the UK music scene for over a decade. Their recognition includes a recent BRIT Award nomination for “Group of the Year” and a series of sold-out performances worldwide. Their hit single “Back On 74” recently surpassed 100 million streams, and they were the first to sell out three consecutive DJ shows at Koko London in one day.
A Unique Venue with No Restrictions
Tofte Manor is set apart from other venues by its lack of restrictive sound limitations, a common issue at inner-city events. This freedom has made it a favorite spot for electronic music’s biggest names, including Keinemusik, Maribou State, Dixon, TSHA, Floating Points, and Fred Again.., among others. “Jungle Curates” marks the final event of the summer at Tofte Manor, hosted by Labyrinth Events, who have also lined up performances from Adriatique and a sold-out show with Fatboy Slim the preceding weekend.
As the day concludes, Jungle themselves will take the stage for a rare DJ set, ensuring the event not only celebrates their music but also their unique style and influence. This is set to be a highlight of this summer’s music calendar, blending historical charm with contemporary beats in a not-to-be-missed festival setting.
