My love affair with Champneys began when I was first handed a robe and described myself as a “fire risk” to reception when requesting a room Not only did they give me a room next to the fire escape the robe they handed me could have fitted a bear one’s encouraged to keep it on at all times and it evokes a delightful feeling of equality and – yes – slight cultishness around the spa I’ve been to Champneys many times: Springs in Leicester (the original – for me) You simply can’t better the approach to Champneys Henlow It’s set in a grand manor house complete with sweeping driveway and a fountain that freezes the public rooms continue the lady of the manor feel with a book-lined library open fires and views into actual countryside I’ve seen deer (deer!) from my poolside lounger be sure to take a seat in the orangery that’s filled with lush plants and comfy seats If you like to work out as well as chill out, there’s a small but never overcrowded gym. It has free weights, weight machines, rowers, bikes, and treadmills that look out into a manicured courtyard There’s a spin room and an “urban gym” that to be honest I haven’t worked up the courage for Aqua aerobics is free but other classes incur a charge. I paid £9 for a breath and meditation class The pool at Champneys Henlow is the real deal breaststroke / doggy paddle – among pillars There’s a large treatment area that offers a variety of massages from your classic back to the intriguing hot poultice massage and the mind-boggling hands-free massage The rooms at Champneys are just what you need: large comfortable beds that have more pillows and cushions than one human could ever use for that luxurious hotel feel The bathrooms are super clean and sparkly and have complementary Champneys toiletries In fact all the showers at Champneys are great including the ones by the pool and in the day guest area Breakfast is the best breakfast in the world: buffet There’s a hot station with sausages and mushrooms and my pal had a poached egg that she said was perfection The coffee is weak (for me) but if you’re prepared to pay you can get a very nice one delivered to your table and for dinner a gloriously piled up Caesar salad followed by sea bass and a chocolate pudding But if you want to go to the gym at 6am and eat a “lighter choice” menu Champneys do full boot camp stays although I’ve never dared try one of those I’d say “one day” but to be honest I like my approach too much: robe Champneys will be giving 20% extra free on gift cards brought before 25th December Georgina Terry is group editor of Closer online and heat, and has been with the titles since 2015. She's a mum of two and would happily turn her back on the glittering world of showbiz and become a spa reviewer full time, if anyone's offering. Bauer Consumer Media Ltd, Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited, Company number: 1394141; Registered office: Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing, Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern, 75 Hampstead Road, London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales. VAT no 918 5617 01 H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) has announced the sale of the freehold of Ansell Village Stores Built around You.Your expert business property advisers Oliver GuppyBusiness Agent - Retail & Leisure the building comprises a convenience store on the ground floor which stocks and sells everyday essentials The building also comprises residential accommodation on the first and second floors The village of Henlow is situated around 11 miles South-East of Bedford and is popular among commuters due to its direct train route into London St Pancras The building freehold has been sold to a local couple from the village and the store will continue to run as a community shop by the current leaseholder Business Agent – Retail at Christie & Co who managed the sale said: “This sale represents the strong demand for investment opportunities with multiple people offering on the property The property has been sold to a local buyer who has no plans to change any aspect given the shop in the commercial unit has been long established A quick sale was achieved with a determined buyer and all parties were happy with the speed of the sale.” The store freehold was sold off an asking price of £375,000 Visit our Business Search page to find out more about current listings. Keep up-to-date with our latest listings and more… © Christie & Co 2024 | A member of Christie Group I’ve completed 406 parkruns at 201 different locations and on a current tourist streak of 94 (It was 106 I’ve completed all but 2 of the parkruns within the M25 (I’m just waiting until they’re event numbers that I’ve not done – to fill gaps in my Wilson Index on the 5k app) so I’m starting to run those that are on the perimeter and a bit further afield This was my second attempt at coming to Henlow Bridge Lakes parkrun however an error boarding my train at London St Pancras had me heading in the direction of St Albans and not Peterborough bound I picked Henlow Bridge Lakes as its event number was one of the Wilson Index numbers that I needed arriving at Arlesey station just before 8am It was a very short walk to the entrance of the campsite where we met with Gordon Grove the event director who was nice and early to complete the pre-event set up with Joanne The campsite kindly allows parkrunners to use their toilets which was appreciated spotting a variety of different wildlife; a deer geese and I could hear so many different birds Volunteering is such a rewarding experience and essential to ensure parkruns can go ahead safely Once a parkrun has been cancelled with parkrun HQ so it is important that the volunteer rota is filled as early in the week as possible It saves the Run Directors a lot of unnecessary stress due to not enough volunteers ☹ If each parkrunner/ walker volunteered a handful of times each year all parkruns would have sufficient volunteers to go ahead safely For those of you who enjoy the challenges on the 5k app Volunteer Ratio and Volunteer Tourist challenges There was a great mix of people running and walking at Henlow Bridge Lakes parkrun today; approximately 33:67 female: male Runners and walkers ranged from Madeline Thomas (on her first parkrun) Joshua Littlejohn and Oskar Stockwell in the JW/JM10 category to Lesley Wilson in the VW70-74 and James Oyston in the VM75-79 age categories proving that parkrun really is for everyone © parkrun Limited (Company Number: 07289574) No part of this site may be reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the permission of the copyright owner I was visiting from Birmingham and needed a H for my park run alphabet so this park run was perfect It was shaky start wondering if Henlow lakes would go ahead due to flood warnings and weather conditions In timely fashion it was announced that the park run was on We arrived and parked at the car park near railway station it was only a short walk over to the lakes I introduced myself to the run Director and volunteers who were welcoming and helpful The first timers briefing was very informative and the other park runners were also really friendly and chatty which was lovely 9:00 am and we were off around the two and half laps of the course It was a lovely flat course on natural terrain through the woodland and along side the river and lake I personally found the run a little challenging only due to how muddy and slippery it had become and then having to navigate the mini lake that had appeared on the course There was no visible way around the puddle so it was just a matter of braving it and having wet feet as part of the mornings running fun I’ve no doubt that in drier conditions this course is a dream to run The marshals were very helpful pointing out the slippery bits After all my slipping and sliding I reached the finish funnel in one piece and still smiling to a very welcoming well done I have to say I had a fabulous morning at Henlow Bridge lakes it was so different to what I am used to and I would definitely recommend the hot chocolate from the campsite shop A big thank you to all the volunteers your time and commitment is always very much appreciated Today 87 people ran jogged or walked the course There were 25 first timers and 5 people ran a personal best The first male runner for this event was Ian Datlen 20:59 and first female runner was Charli Harlow 25:32 well done to you both and Congratulations to Brian Judkins on completing his 300th parkrun Amy Ockelford checks in for a luxury break at this award-winning spa hotel Champneys is a name that’s synonymous with relaxation and luxury; so when I was invited to its award-winning resort in Bedfordshire during a sweltering heatwave and while 18-weeks pregnant I jumped at the chance for some time to unwind Champneys is nestled in the quaint Bedfordshire village of Henlow just off the A1 A long drive sweeps through parkland up to the grand 18th century red-brick country house Henlow Grange; pretty pink roses climb the twisted metal gates that arch over the entrance framing an idyllic bubbling fountain fringed with lavender that buzzes with bumble bees The mansion stands proudly in the countryside surrounded by mature gardens and colourful beds of flowers The historic building has been extended to house a state-of-the-art spa which is home to specialist facilities that are typical of Champneys Inside the front door is a spacious reception area where friendly staff are ready to whisk you into a lounge with a cooling drink and introduce you to the Champneys experience Sit beneath the towering stone archways and glass roof of the sun-drenched conservatory nestled amongst lush green palms and leaves for an afternoon drink or wander out into the formal serenity garden where deck chairs line the peaceful lily pond Geese snooze on the riverbank and butterflies swarm around the pretty kitchen garden abundant with colourful flowers and plants loungers and oversized beanbags offer guests somewhere to relax in the sunshine with the soothing sound of the babbling river and rushing weir in the background There’s also a tennis court for those who are after something to get the heart racing and a collection of charming and snug shepherd’s huts where guests looking for an escape can enjoy a simply but memorable stay Inside is a bustling coffee-come-wine bar serving drinks and snacks as well as a peaceful library where dulcet piano music rings out and large windows offer views over the gardens There’s a large lounge with statement fireplace and cosy sofas so you can sit back with a drink read the paper or play a boardgame in comfort A separate lounge has been transformed into a cinema room with a different movie playing every night from 9pm As premier guests we were lucky enough to be staying in one of the hotel’s elegant suites in the main manor house Located on the top floor we had fabulous sweeping views over the fountain and parkland beyond but our room was also suffering in the heatwave – even with two fans whirring it was still stuffy and uncomfortable The room boasted a king-sized bed and lounge area with double aspect windows flooding the suite with light gilded mirrors and a crystal chandelier finish the room with historic style A large door opened onto a spacious but basic bathroom with a full-size bath and separate shower We were also pleasantly surprised to find gift bags stuffed with wonderful Champneys products to take home with us so we could continue our pampering at home The hotel offers guests a wide choice of accommodation from simple but stylish rooms in the modern spa – close to the facilities – to the cosy and quaint shepherd’s huts outside to the grand deluxe suites in the original part of the mansion a long corridor leads you from the hotel and into the spa Old meets new here where the exposed beams and brick walls of the historic building jut up against the contemporary extension dotted with old original windows and wooden doorways Two centuries meet seamlessly as you step from the 1700s into the present day The spa is packed full of fabulous facilities which can keep you busy for any length break Active guests can enjoy lifting weights in the urban gym or can book a slot with a personal trainer in the fully-equipped gym Cycling fans or people looking for a good cardio workout can head to the spin studio for an unaccompanied session in front of the huge screen transporting you to any terrain or location mirrored studio has a packed and varied timetable of free classes including stretch and flex Pilates and Zumba while staff also offer outdoor pursuits like country walks (tip: be sure to book on as these can get busy) Winding through the building past boutique shops and quiet courtyard gardens you finally reach the large double-height space that houses the main pool The cool water sparkles as the sun streams through floor-to-ceiling windows The 25m pool is split into two offering guests the chance to float around in the soothing water or swim lengths Water aerobics classes are popular with guests who splash and paddle along to upbeat music or you can simply sit back and relax on the plush rattan chairs and day beds Champneys offers a wide range of treatments including tension-melting massages dimly-lit corner where therapists buzz around collecting guests and whisking them off to their private treatment rooms I was treated to a special pregnancy aromatherapy massage; a wonderful hour spent being lathered in much needed oils and moisturisers My therapist was friendly and we chatted as she kneaded my aching muscles and soothed my skin with a relaxing serum Guests can also enjoy the steam room or sauna book into the infrared cabin – a free treatment where infrared light heats and soothes the body – or can enjoy the skin-healing properties of specialist mud and steam in the Rasul chamber There’s also a hair salon (if you fancy a new do) and a demo space where experts give talks about different beauty regimes Housed in the spa is a café – serving all-day hot drinks and cake – overlooking the pool as well as a large modern restaurant decorated in bright colours with large doors onto the terrace lunch and dinner are all included in spa break packages so we headed to the restaurant for each of our meals The breakfast buffet wasn’t the most exciting but there were plenty of options including cereals guests can enjoy three-course meals with a number of options to pick from The menu is simple but offers healthy and wholesome options including light dishes from salad to pasta we decided to keep it light and I opted for one of my favourites Next I chose the seabass with tomato salsa and charred corn The fish was beautifully cooked with flaky meat and crispy skin and the corn and salsa was a lovely we headed back to the buffet to choose from chocolate orange cheesecake crab and sweet potato cake to start which was packed full of fishy flavour and was served with a creamy but spicy chipotle mayonnaise and a sweet mango salad To follow I had the gnocchi with arrabiata sauce and grilled Mediterranean vegetables while my husband sampled the flame-grilled rib eye steak with red wine jus and roasted new potatoes The gnocchi was a large portion (despite being a light option) but was very tasty while the steak was cooked perfectly we finished with the chocolate mousse and pineapple and ginger cake; a sweet treat to end the evening The waiting staff were friendly and smiley tending to us promptly but also leaving us to enjoy a relaxed evening the ingredients were clearly high-quality and the menu options were great value for money for package price Champneys is renowned across the country for a reason and Henlow is a perfect example of why so many people flock to these resorts every year and a little break away from everyday life; Champneys Henlow could be just the ticket you need Amy’s stay was organised following the 2022 Good Spa Guide Awards in which Champneys Henlow won the Best Health Club Spa category Address: Champneys Henlow, Coach Rd, Henlow SG16 6BTPhone: 0343 210 1462Website: champneys.com/spa-resorts/henlow This morning our running group headed to Henlow Bridges Lake Parkrun to celebrate our friend Claire’s 50th Parkrun This is Claire’s home parkrun and one we’ve had on our to do list for a while We even managed to get a H for the alphabet challenge When I arrived to introduce myself to Neil I was met by a group of very friendly volunteers One lovely lady asked straight away if I was a first timer took the time to chat to us and find out about our club as I know only too well that those final minutes leading up to 8:55 are quite busy worked out we had tourists from as far as Barcelona and given the milestones a shout out he set us off on our 2.5 laps of Henlow Lakes It’s extremely well marshalled and all the marshals were so friendly I’d certainly recommend given them a visit ☺️ Thank you to the high viz heroes who helped make our morning amazing The event was made possible by 26 volunteers: Joel Benjamin DAVISON • Neil TRUELOVE • Sam DONNELLY • Petra WARNER • Helen JOANNOU • Ali DALY • Cheryl DRYSDALE • Gordon GROVE • Jonathon HAWKINS • Helen HAWKINS • Sarah CHAPMAN • Eloise DAVISON • Althea DAVISON • Jacky HOLBOURN • Alan HOLBOURN • Gareth BEAN • Loretta BUCKLAND • Lana ROGERS • Darron HOWARD • Barbara STEVENS • Issy WOOLASS • Andi WOOLASS • Toby LIVERSIDGE • Tejal CHOKSI • George CURSON • Riley LOWINGS Today's full results and a complete event history can be found on the Henlow Bridge Lakes parkrun Results Page Henlow Bridge Lakes parkrun started on 25th September 2021 Since then 3,056 participants have completed 7,277 parkruns covering a total distance of 36,385 km A total of 264 individuals have volunteered 1,607 times It was a week for milestones with Banham boys Harry and Sebastien both celebrating their tenth Tail walkers Natalie Passey also her tenth and Sarah Passey her 25th Niamh Skinner her 50th and Kris Whitmore both his 50th Volunteer and 250th run At the front of the run it was very close for the men with the top four runners all together going into the final straight A tremendous burst of speed saw Paul “Makka” Makowski of Royston Runners (19:52) just pip Kris Wescott returning to parkrun for the first time since before lockdown (19:53) on the line with Darren purchase of Hitchin running club (19:58) taking the final podium spot visitor Danielle Robarts from Rochford running club (22:15) took top spot in fifteenth overall with local runners Kelly McHale of Fairlands Valley Spartans (24:08) and Ailsa Abbott from Bubbleworks (24:12) in a tussle for second and third In all 21 runners managed PBs while there were 52 runners visiting for the first time The event was made possible by the 21 volunteers who had given up their morning to put the event on of whom 52 were first timers and 21 recorded new Personal Bests Representatives of 23 different clubs took part The event was made possible by 21 volunteers: Joel Benjamin DAVISON • John PHILLIPS • Sarah PASSEY • Kris WHITMORE • Charles ARNOLD • Julian BRUNT • Benjamin HING • Natalie PASSEY • George HING • Paula FROST • Joanne WEEKES GROVE • Gordon GROVE • Jonathon HAWKINS • Helen HAWKINS • Sarah CHAPMAN • Jacky HOLBOURN • Alan HOLBOURN • Hannah PHILP • Loretta BUCKLAND • Darron HOWARD • Barbara STEVENS Since then 2,324 participants have completed 4,781 parkruns covering a total distance of 23,905 km A total of 207 individuals have volunteered 1,001 times The club will be able to stay on the site but will be unable to fly Henlow Flying Club are no longer able to train pilots or offer recreational flights from RAF Henlow after the airfield’s manager stepped down reports the BBC The MoD’s decision leaves the club “no option but to close” according to club director John Germanos The club initially hoped they would be able to continue flying at the site up to 2023 and possibly beyond due to the UK’s lack of airfields an MoD spokesperson has said that the government “remains committed to the phased drawdown and disposal” at Henlow which was first established in 1918 Henlow is part of 15 sites that the MoD intends to sell off and there are plans to build 780 homes in its place “Stop us from flying and naturally we will fold,” said instructor Paul Tribble © 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