Eileen Smith - Civil Celebrant

15/04/2026

Love stories don’t end with “I do”… they continue for years to come ❤️

At Layer Marney Tower, our couples become part of something more, a place they return to, celebrate in, and hold close long after their wedding day has passed.

This summer, in partnership with Bouquet Garni Caterers we’re welcoming back some of our wonderful couples for an exclusive reunion evening, a chance to walk these historic grounds once more, share memories, and celebrate how their stories have unfolded since their wedding day.

If you were married with us, we would be so delighted to welcome you back.

Find out more and RSVP via the link in bio, or visit: layermarneytowerweddings.co.uk/exclusive-event-a-summer-reunion/

13/02/2026

The world turned upside down!

26/01/2026

The Balkerne Gate in Colchester, Essex, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving Roman gateway in Britain. Built nearly 2,000 years ago during the Roman occupation, it once served as a grand entrance to Camulodunum—what was then the capital of Roman Britain. This impressive structure, part of the Roman city wall, was not just functional but monumental in scale, marking the western approach to the city with arches that welcomed travelers and controlled traffic.

Originally constructed as a quadruple-arched gate, the Balkerne Gate was among the largest ever built by the Romans in Britain. Though only one of the arches survives today, it remains a striking reminder of Roman architectural ambition. The gateway would have formed a crucial part of Colchester’s defenses and infrastructure, linking the military fortress and administrative hub to the wider Roman road network, including the vital route that became known as Stane Street.

Today, the remains of the Balkerne Gate still stand adjacent to the modern street, blending the past with the present. It is not just a historical artifact but a symbol of continuity—a reminder that Britain’s urban foundations were laid centuries ago by Roman engineers. For visitors and residents alike, it offers a rare, tangible glimpse into life in Roman Britain, when Colchester was a bustling heart of the empire's northern frontier.

20/12/2025

17/11/2025

You're invited. 🧡 The countdown to Christmas has begun, and our Christmas Bazaar is the perfect place to kick off the festivities!

Join us at Books, Brew & Boutique on Peartree Road, Stanway, on Saturday 22nd (9am–5pm) and Sunday 23rd November (10am–4pm), and explore a lovely collection of vintage and pre-loved treasures to make your Christmas extra special.

From decorations and cosy jumpers to thoughtful gifts and charming cards, there’s something for everyone on your list. And the best part? Every purchase helps support St Helena Hospice, spreading a little extra joy this festive season.

Discover more: https://tinyurl.com/4urbccpc

28/10/2025

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0ftp7pt?partner=uk.co.bbc&origin=share-mobile

Listen to the latest episodes of The Rise and Fall of ... on BBC Sounds.

21/10/2025

14/10/2025

One of the longest sets of dinosaur footprints in the world has been discovered in a limestone quarry near Bicester, in Oxfordshire, England.

06/09/2025

Snoo cave Scotland