retiredmartin

October 2023. Deeping St. James.

Two edge-of-Fens highlights for you, either side of Peterborough.

I don’t get to take Dad far from home these days, but I did take him to a new garden centre in Chatteris called Seasons. NGCSS 4, I think, for the tremendous cooked breakfast,

and model Christmas village, whatever that is.

For about £400 this model village, complete authentic English Wintergarten and Pretzel Haus, could be yours. The Germans do this sort of kitsch best.

Chatteris made a surprise return to the Guide last year; I never saw that coming. And I certainly never predicted a new entry in the Deepings, just over the Lincs border.

Actually, the Thirsty Giraffe is in Deeping St James (pop. 7,091), and I really feel I’ve failed you with a lack of a full tourist guide to the village.

But it was getting dark, and Mum worries about me being out late, and it’s best not to worry your mother, unless you’re Wet Leg, and I’m not.

Philip Spratley is from there; you remember Philip Spratley don’t you ?

Obviously the micro is in a row of shops in a 60s precinct, next to the functional church,

and a tanning salon.

I thought it was wonderful.

Simon was there last month, too, they remembered him fondly. He applauded their full-on dedication to the giraffe theme.

The guvnor and guvnoress did explain the reason for the theme, but do I remember it ? Do you care ?

And is this a giraffe ?

They were so chatty, and welcoming, and their beer (Phipps) was superb, perfect temperature and condition (NBSS 3.5/4).

And that’s all I remember about it. But that’ll do.