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.

“Bonnie & Clyde The Musical” is set to captivate audiences across the UK and Ireland following its spectacular run in London’s West End. The show tells the thrilling tale of two small-town kids, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, who rose to become legendary folk heroes in America, their story a dazzling mix of love, adventure, and crime.

Leading the cast as Clyde Barrow is Alex James-Hatton, known for his roles in “Heathers” and “Newsies”. He brings his charismatic presence to the stage alongside Katie Tonkinson, starring as Bonnie Parker. Tonkinson, who previously impressed audiences in “Bat Out of Hell”, is set to deliver another unforgettable performance. Adding to the dynamic lineup, Daisy Wood-Davis, recognized for her work in “Hollyoaks” and “Holby City”, will portray Blanche Barrow.

Supporting them, Sam Ferriday, with his extensive musical theater background including “The Cher Show” and “Jersey Boys”, takes on the role of Marvin “Buck” Barrow. Jaz Ellington, an R&B and soul talent known for his appearances on The Voice UK, will enchant as The Preacher. Additionally, Nate Landskroner, who has delighted audiences in “Waitress” and “Heathers”, will alternate the role of Clyde during midweek matinee performances.

The musical boasts an impressive creative team. The score is the work of Tony-nominated composer Frank Wildhorn, with lyrics by Tony and Oscar winner Don Black, and a book by Emmy nominee Ivan Menchell. Nick Winston directs and choreographs, ensuring a vibrant staging of the lovers’ escapades.

Behind the scenes, the set and costumes are crafted by Philip Witcomb, with musical supervision by Katy Richardson. The team also includes notable talents such as Nick Barstow in associate musical supervision and John McDaniel handling original arrangements and orchestrations, among others. Each design element, from lighting by Zoe Spurr to sound by Tom Marshall and wigs by Darren Ware, is meticulously curated to enhance this gripping narrative.

Produced by the Olivier Award-winning DLAP Group, “Bonnie & Clyde The Musical” is more than just a musical; it’s an immersive experience into the lives of America’s most famous outlaws. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed historical tales or poignant love stories, this production promises to be an electrifying adventure. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exceptional blend of storytelling and theatrical innovation!