A ‘name the penguin’ competition had concluded to give the giant penguin at Stonham Barns Park Santa’s Grotto a name

A new addition to the much-loved Santa’s Grotto Experience at Stonham Barns Park was revealed ahead of the launch of this year’s festive season.  Running for five weekends starting during November and December leading up to Christmas Day, the experience was a sell-out success.

The six-foot-tall penguin was placed inside the grotto for magical photo opportunities and to add to the excitement the venue ran a name the penguin competition on the Stonham Barns Park Facebook page. The Name the Penguin entrant won free tickets to the grotto.

The winning entry came from Bobby Sadler (6) who lives in Ipswich with his Mum Natalie, Dad Gavin and little brother Barney.  Natalie explains, ‘When I showed Bobby the penguin he said, please can we enter.  He has had a soft-toy penguin since he was a baby, and he has named it Poppa.  He was keen for the giant penguin to have the same name as his much-loved toy and so we entered, and his entry won!’

‘Bobby is very proud to have won the competition and know that his little Poppa has a giant penguin friend with the same name. We are regular visitors to Stonham Barns Park and appreciate the family-friendly venue.  This has made this Christmas very special for us all to have been able to visit Santas Grotto and make memories that will last forever.’

Sakura Studio Gallery wins two award placings a year after winning the UK Small Business Awards for 2025 for Start Up of the Year – and receives another nomination

Suffolk-based start-up business Sakura Studio Gallery has been named Best Creative Arts Business finalist in the UK Small Business Awards 2025 to be awarded on 13 December.

Founded by young mother Albany Tripp in February 2023, Sakura Studio Gallery is an art space dedicated to showcasing independent artists and providing a space for visitors to try out and experiment with their own creativity with the wide variety of workshops on offer, led by a variety of local creators. Sakura Studio Gallery previously won the 2024 East of England Creative StartUp of the Year and Albany went on to compete at the National Final – with her toddler and newborn – where she was 1 of 9 Regional Winners competing for National title.

To this Albany has added, Winner of the Business Awards UK Startup Businesswoman of the Year Award 2025, 2025 East of England Rural StartUp of the Year with UK StartUp Awards, and SME News Best Independent Art Gallery & Creative Workshop Space 2025.

Since its launch, Albany has expanded and evolved the creative hub – extending the studio and adding a wider variety of workshops, social craft mornings and working with her visitors and artists to develop a space that is accessible, affordable and community focused.

Albany says: ‘It is incredibly overwhelming to have won and been nominated for so many awards in less than 3 years since we first launched. When I created Sakura Studio Gallery, I wanted to create something different, to support our local artists, creatives and wider community. I feel like my studio does that, and as a result I am achieving more than I could have ever wished for in terms of business success.’

‘I enjoy the company of other people from the arts community, and we all work together to be the very best we can be. The studio wouldn’t work without our creators and visitors driving it and how we have developed over the last three years. The fact that this has been recognised by multiple awards is the best news of all.’

‘This business allows me to pour myself into doing what I love while being the best mother I can be to my family.’

‘And as a small rural business, we wouldn’t be where we are without the support of our artists and visitors, along with our fellow local businesses and the team at Stonham Barns Park.’

For further info on Sakura Studio Gallery please call 07859 093 855, email sakurastudiogallery@gmail.com or visit www.sakurastudiogallery.shop

 

Stonham Barns Park puts a new tilt on the Christmas trip to see Santa

Stonham Barns Park – one of Suffolk’s premier leisure, retail and holiday venues – is putting on something slightly different for little ones and their families this Christmas.

Breakfast with Santa will see children and their parents having a delicious, cooked breakfast with Santa before leaving on a train to an enchanted theatre for a welcome by elves before entering an enchanted grotto to receive a Christmas gift.

Explains Events Manager David Sandpearl from Stonham Barns Park, ‘This is a magical event not to be missed at the award-winning Café 24 (Best Café in Suffolk 2024 and 2025).  The Christmas fun will include a breakfast and a train ride to Santa’s Grotto where Santa will be presenting each of the children with a gift.  The breakfast venue is beautifully set out with a snow scene, Christmas sleigh, elves and more. It’s all about creating memories for parents at this special time of the year.’

‘The experience will be fun for all – and everyone will enjoy a hearty cooked breakfast! It will certainly make for a special start to the festive period.’

The elves who will be on hand on the day to meet the children and adults will include Snowball, Sparkle, Holly and Tinsel.

Children will be able to chat about their gifts and hopes for the coming year with Santa.

The cooked breakfasts will include a vegetarian option.  Pre-booked tickets only at £13.95 for adults and children £18.95 to cover breakfast, train ride and gift.  Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Breakfast with Santa is available throughout December – on 6, 7, 13, 14 and 19 December until 24 December.  Time slots are 8.30am, 9.30am, 10.30am and 11.30am.

For more information about Stonham Barns Park please contact 01449 711901 or visit www.stonhambarns.co.uk

 

Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto and live music bring festive goodwill to families.

The second of a series of two weekends of feature-packed Christmas Craft Markets was staged at Stonham Barns Park on 29 and 30 November which attracted crowds from Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex.  The two days of festivities included the opportunity for Christmas shopping and to visit Santas Grotto where children receive a special Christmas gift!

The weekend at Stonham Barns Park brought a huge number of traders to the markets and visitors to Santa’s Grotto – with around 4,000 visitors over the two days.

Speaking about the weekend, Josh Forward from Stonham Barns Park Events Team, said: ‘The second weekend of the Christmas Craft Markets was even more successful than the first.  We attracted another full set of trade stalls of every type with traders offering everything from baked goods to hand made gifts, knitted goods, toys and collectables.’

‘Santa’s Grotto was also fully booked throughout the weekend with Santa and his team of elves and helpers keeping everyone entertained.  It was a very festive weekend with everyone getting into the spirit of Christmas again, making happy holiday memories.’

‘Santa’s Grotto is still open, and we have Christmas Afternoon Teas at Carters of Suffolk and Breakfast with Santa at Café 24 still to come during the month of December so there’s no rest for Santa until later in the month!’

With mince pies, mulled wine, live music and Christmas lights Stonham Barns Park – one of Suffolk’s premier leisure and entertainment venues – pulled out all the stops to put on two weekends of shopping and activities for both adults and children.  The Snow Queen, Elsa and some magical elves including Snowball, Sparkle, Holly and Tinsel attended as part of the weekends for photo opportunities.

Talented Suffolk exhibitors will bring their handmade crafts, artisan foods and unique wares.  From intricately designed decorations and pottery to scented candles, textiles, children’s toys and gourmet treats, the stalls are a celebration of Suffolk’s creative spirit with some exhibitors offering demonstrations of their skills.

The markets will feature uniquely handmade, handcrafted gifts and products. In addition, visitors will be able to shop at the retail village which is packed with 1000s of Christmas gift ideas.  There are arts and craft shops, the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Carters of Suffolk pottery and newly enhanced tearooms and Legends Bar.

Other retailers at Stonham Barns Park’s Retail Village include Aspal Antiques, Aspal Emporium, Aspal Reclamation Yard, Stonham Garden Centre, Carters of Suffolk, Hemingstone Frames, Hot Tub Village, Tiger Sheds, Stonham Village Stores, Suffolk Bridal Outlet, The Beauty Barn, The Vintage Cellar, The Book Cellar and The Little Dance Barn.  Among the most recent retail additions to the village La 3D Print Artistry, Sakura Studio Gallery, Glen’s Collectables, Ben’s Corals, Emmett’s Emporium and Bella’s Pet Shop.

Stonham Barns Park looks to another major darts final to end the 2025 Season

Stonham Barns Park – one of Suffolk’s premier leisure, retail and holiday destinations – is to host the final of a major darts tournament for 2025.

The Super Series Darts Final will be staged on Saturday 6 December at Legends Bar.

The Super Series Event covers 8 Grand Slam events at 8 venues with £8,000 to be won. Organised by Evolution Darts – with the support of Legends Sports Bar, Target Darts and Café 24, competitors will be coming to play the final from all over the county.

Throughout the year players have gained points for how far they get in each event.  The top 32 players on the series points table then qualify for finals day. The qualifiers include 2023 Super Series Champion Jason Elvin, world seniors star Kevin Edwards, JJ Wright, Chris, Ash Colman, and TikTok Star Ollie Howard to name but a few. Number 1 seed for the finals is Suffolk County star Rob Butters but it really is an open field with all the qualifiers having a chance to take the title.

There will be a fully licensed bar available for players and supporters and spectators are welcome to attend and enjoy some real quality darts.

Stonham Barns Park has been hosting various darts events at Legends Sports Bar – named in honour of a variety of sporting legends – since its opening with one being hosted by famous names from the world of darts Russ Bray and Ipswich-based Keith Deller.

Said Darren Moyes from Evolution Darts, ‘We are looking forward to the final of the Super Series tournament at Stonham Barns Park which has hosted some truly compelling darts events over the course of the year.’

‘The 32 players competing have really earned their place in the lineup, it really is anyone to win and should be awesome for the spectators on the day to see who walks away with the title.’

More details are available from Evolutiondarts.co.uk.

 

Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto and live music bring festive goodwill to families

The first of a series of two weekends of feature-packed and brightly-lit Christmas Craft Market was staged at Stonham Barns Park (22 and 23 November) as the venue looks forward to another two days of festive spirit and fun on 29 and 30 November (from 10am – 4pm).  The two days of festivities will include the opportunity for Christmas shopping and Santas Grotto visits where children can visit Santa’s Grotto and receive a special Christmas gift!

Speaking about the first weekend, David Sandpearl, Events Manager, at Stonham Barns Park, said: ‘As the song goes ‘the weather outside is frightful’ but still the crowds flocked to the Christmas Craft Markets to check out the wonderful goods provided by our local traders selling their festive goods for the holidays.’

‘With over 80 stalls ranging from handmade jewellery, scrumptious cakes, and bath bombs to Christmas decorations, there was something for everyone.  Santa made a visit and welcomed visitors to his Grotto, while the Snow Queen and Elsa were walking around the venue for photo opportunities.  We had live music performed by Whitnee Springfield who entertained the crowds in the Market Square.’

‘For those who missed it, we are doing it all again this weekend from 10.00pm to 4pm each day.  Parking is free so you can stay as long as you like!’

With mince pies, mulled wine, live music and Christmas lights Stonham Barns Park – one of Suffolk’s premier leisure and entertainment venues – will again pull out all the stops again to put on another weekend of shopping and activities for both adults and children.  The Snow Queen, Elsa and some magical elves including Snowball, Sparkle, Holly and Tinsel will be attending as part of the weekends for photo opportunities.

Talented Suffolk exhibitors will bring their handmade crafts, artisan foods and unique wares.  From intricately designed decorations and pottery to scented candles, textiles, children’s toys and gourmet treats, the stalls are a celebration of Suffolk’s creative spirit with some exhibitors offering demonstrations of their skills.

Explains Terri Forward from Stonham Barns Park, ‘Christmas is all about families spending time together and – as always – we are making the season truly magical with our annual Christmas Craft Markets.’

‘The gift and craft retailers attending are offering some delightful gifts and decorations.  Suffolk is known for its creativity, and we will be exhibiting some of the best artists and craftspeople the county has to offer here in one place again at the weekend.’

The markets will feature uniquely handmade, handcrafted gifts and products. In addition, visitors will be able to shop at the retail village which is packed with 1000s of Christmas gift ideas.  There are arts and craft shops, the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Carters of Suffolk pottery and newly enhanced tearooms and Legends Bar.

The events offer visitors free parking and free entry.

Tickets for the grotto – suitable for the under 12s – will cost £10 per child.  Advanced booking is recommended, with limited on the day bookings also available.

Other retailers at Stonham Barns Park include Aspal Antiques, Aspal Emporium, Aspal Reclamation Yard, Stonham Garden Centre, Carters of Suffolk, Hemingstone Frames, Hot Tub Village, Tiger Sheds, Stonham Village Stores, Suffolk Bridal Outlet, The Beauty Barn, The Vintage Cellar, The Book Cellar and The Little Dance Barn.  Among the most recent retail additions to the village La 3D Print Artistry, Sakura Studio Gallery, Glen’s Collectables, Ben’s Corals, Emmett’s Emporium and Bella’s Pet Shop.

New mid-Suffolk pet shop caters for feathered, furry and fishy friends

Karina Cook – a devoted pet owner and lifelong animal lover – has always shared her life with animals, having grown up with a playful poodle and several affectionate cats. She is also a proud mother of two daughters and grandmother to six grandchildren, her family sharing her fondness for furry and feathered companions.  She has just opened a brand-new pet shop at Stonham Barns Park Retail Village named Bella’s Pet Shop after her own dog, a Bichon Maltese cross.

Her journey to Suffolk began with a visit to see her sister, who had recently moved to the county. Instantly captivated by the area’s charm and beauty, Karina ‘fell in love with it at first sight’ and found herself returning time and again from her home in London.  She eventually moved to Stonham Aspal, and following the loss of her mother, she felt that she wanted to do something new and so the idea of the pet shop was born.

It was Karina’s fondness for owls that led her to Stonham Barns Park’s Suffolk Owl Sanctuary that introduced her to the venue where she then enjoyed exploring the artisan Retail Village spending many a happy hour shopping among its unique retail offerings.

Inspired by Bella, and motivated by the vibrant community she discovered, Karina decided to channel her lifelong passion for animals into a new venture. After settling into Suffolk life, she has opened a pet shop at Stonham Barns Park – a haven where pet enthusiasts can find everything from nutritious food to engaging toys for their beloved companions. Her shop caters to a wide range of pets, offering food and accessories for birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and goldfish, ensuring that every pet owner can find what they need for their feathered, furry or fishy friends.

Karina says, ‘Pets are pure therapy. We all choose them for love and companionship.’

‘They make people feel happy and everyone loves to spoil them so, as well as offering food for small animals and birds, I am stocking beds, food bowls, toys and accessories too.’

‘You just cannot describe how animals make you feel.  It gives you such a lovely connection.  I have always loved wildlife and the country.  The people of Suffolk are so friendly, and I have been made to feel so welcome.’

‘I feel very fortunate to be here.’

For further information contact Bella’s Pet Shop on 07931664134 or email karina.cook.kc@gmail.com

Norfolk couple open outlet in Suffolk offering tempting seasonal ranges

Stonham Barns Park – Suffolk’s renowned destination for leisure, retail and holiday experiences – is delighted to announce the opening of Emmett’s Emporium.  A new and vibrant shop founded by husband-and-wife team Michael and Sharon Emmett from Thetford, the outlet offers a range of tempting products for the home and family.

Emmett’s Emporium brings a fresh approach to interiors and gifting, offering a diverse collection of interior design products, distinctive gifts and fascinating curiosities.

The shop is a treasure trove for anyone seeking inspiration for their home or searching for the perfect present, featuring a selection that ranges from elegant home décor to quirky collectables.

Co-founder Sharon Emmett draws on her extensive background in retail to curate an ever-evolving range of goods, ensuring the Emporium remains a destination for both the latest trends and timeless classics. Alongside interior items, there are one-off pieces of designer clothing, rare collectables, unique hardware, and a variety of handmade items crafted by talented local artisans.

Michael and Sharon’s vision is to create a welcoming space where visitors can browse at leisure, discover new favourites, and enjoy a truly eclectic shopping experience. Their commitment to quality and individuality ensures that every visit to Emmett’s Emporium is full of delightful surprises.

Originally from London, the couple met in Kent before deciding to relocate to East Anglia to be near family.   They have 6 children between them – including their 11-year old daughter Millie – and 7 grandchildren.

Michael previously worked in property development and comments, ‘We have always been entrepreneurial and, with Sharon’s previous experience in retail, we thought it would be good to open an outlet as a glidepath into retirement.  Stonham Barns Park appealed for its rural location and relaxed shopping environment.  It has been busy since we started trading, and we are looking forward to what the Christmas shopping season brings!’

‘It’s a good move for us.  We love East Anglia and all the beauty that surrounds us.  We are glad we made the change.’

The opening of Emmett’s Emporium further enhances Stonham Barns Park’s reputation as Suffolk’s leading hub for independent retail and creative enterprise.

Stonham Barns Park has over 40 retailers at its Retail Village selling everything from antiques and furniture to wildlife carving and glassware, and from garden plants and hot tubs to art shops.

For further information contact Michael or Sharon on 07930101224 or visit emmettemporium.co.uk

A ‘name the penguin’ competition is open to give the giant penguin a name

A new addition to the much-loved Santa’s Grotto Experience at Stonham Barns Park has been revealed ahead of the launch of the festive season this year which runs for five weekends starting from 22 and 23 November leading up to Christmas Day!

The six-foot-tall penguin will be placed inside the grotto for magical photo opportunities.  And to add to the excitement the penguin does not have a name and so there is a competition on Stonham Barns Park Facebook page to Name the Penguin where the winning entrant will win two children’s tickets to the grotto.  Entries close on 20 November and the winner will be announced on 21 November.

As the festive season approaches, families from across Suffolk will be looking forward to the joy and excitement of Christmas craft markets.  The feature-packed and brightly-lit Christmas Craft Market will be staged again at Stonham Barns Park this year over two weekends – 22 and 23 November and 29 and 30 November (from 10am – 4pm) to enable more visitors to start the festive season early with some Christmas shopping and activities.

With mince pies, mulled wine, live music and Christmas lights Stonham Barns Park – one of Suffolk’s premier leisure and entertainment venues – is preparing to pull out all the stops and put on two weekends of ‘festive fun’ for both adults and children.  The Snow Queen, Snow Princess and some magical elves including Snowball, Sparkle, Holly and Tinsel will be attending as part of the weekends for photo opportunities.

Talented Suffolk exhibitors will bring their handmade crafts, artisan foods and unique wares.  From intricately designed decorations and pottery to scented candles, textiles, children’s toys and gourmet treats, the stalls are a celebration of Suffolk’s creative spirit with some exhibitors offering demonstrations of their skills.

The markets will feature uniquely handmade, handcrafted gifts and products. In addition, visitors will be able to shop at the retail village which is packed with 1000s of Christmas gift ideas.  There are arts and craft shops, the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Carters of Suffolk pottery and newly enhanced tearooms and Legends Bar.

The events offer visitors free parking and free entry.

Tickets for the grotto – suitable for the under 12s – cost £10 per child.  Advanced booking is recommended, with limited on the day bookings also available.

Other retailers at Stonham Barns Park include Aspal Antiques, Aspal Emporium, Aspal Reclamation Yard, Stonham Garden Centre, Carters of Suffolk, Hemingstone Frames, Hot Tub Village, Tiger Sheds, Stonham Village Stores, Suffolk Bridal Outlet, The Beauty Barn, The Vintage Cellar, The Book Cellar and The Little Dance Barn.  Among the most recent retail additions to the village La 3D Print Artistry, Sakura Studio Gallery, Glen’s Collectables and Ben’s Corals.

For more information call Stonham Barns Park on 01449 711111

 

Marine specialist opens first outlet to introduce marine eco systems for beginners and hobbyists alike

Stonham Barns Park, Suffolk’s leading leisure, retail and holiday destination, is pleased to welcome Ben’s Corals – a specialist marine coral outlet committed to introducing marine eco systems to both beginners and experienced marine life enthusiasts.

Ben’s Corals – owned and run by specialist Ben Smith from Ipswich – offers a spectrum of marine aquarium systems, with equipment ranging from accessible starter kits at £200 to advanced systems valued at around £10,000. This flexibility means the hobby can be as simple or as intricate as each customer chooses, guided by the time and passion they wish to devote.

The outlet features a comprehensive selection of mesmerising, neon-coloured corals and marine fish. The aquarium setups are all tailored to support sustainable and responsible aquatic environments. Corals are carefully sourced from reputable regional aqua culture farms and from renowned marine fish destinations, including Indonesia and Vietnam, ensuring both variety and ethical standards.

With research and knowledge, closed eco-systems have evolved significantly over the years and are still becoming enhanced with the technological improvements.

As a young child Ben was brought up with an interest freshwater and saltwater environments because of his father Richard’s reefing hobby, starting with goldfish and moving into tropical fish and marine fish.  He worked at a tropical and marine fish shop at 17 where he expanded his knowledge base.  In 2021 he changed career path, training as an Apprentice Electrician, but then gave up the role when he began selling marine corals from home and made a success of it.

He set up Ben’s Corals in 2024 and is launching his shop just a year later.  Ben, now 27, lives with his partner Tiegan and son Felix in Ipswich.

Ben says, ‘It is the most engaging and interactive hobby you can have – and it allows you to pursue a hobby that is home based which makes it fun and educational for the whole family. Anyone who thinks that they might be interested should come along and look at the vividly stunning colours of the fish and the coral and see what they need to get them started. Any enthusiasts who are already in deep can come and see what we have to offer them to turn their dream marine eco systems into a reality.’

Ben further explains, ‘Saltwater eco systems need fish and invertebrates that perform specific roles within the aquarium to keep it balanced so the marine life can live together in perfect harmony. It is a skill that requires time and patience. Once you master the art of marine fish keeping you can enjoy the spectacle that you have created for your home or business setting.’

He adds, ‘It’s about recreating the ocean, but in a way that in a home environment sustains the life and balance the ecosystem needs. You can marvel at the beauty of the fish and coral thriving in an eco-system that works with as much or little maintenance as you want.’

Ben also notes, ‘Marine enthusiasts normally start as tropical fish keepers but move onto marine fish and corals. Global travel has made the hobby more popular as people experience the incredible beauty of fish and corals from a diverse range of oceans and seas. For me it’s always been about the corals. They are so just captivating and enticing. The magnificent colours and intricate structures make the hobby so pleasing.  I look forward to bringing this magic and awe to the people of East Anglia and beyond.’

Ben names his favourite corals as Rainbow Jelly Bean Chalice and his Australian holy grail Micromussa.  It is his hope that once the business is established, he will be able to make a research trip to Raja-Ampat in Bali to visit the Coral Conservation team there and dive in Indonesian waters to see the coral in all its natural beauty.

Ben’s commitment to environmental awareness is reflected in responsibly sourced products and his advice and education for those eager to explore marine aquatic systems.

For further information contact Ben’s Corals on 07521 914469 or email benscorals@outlook.com