Comedy, craft and Pythons: The best things to do this week
FROM comedy to craft and Pythons to pop stars, we’ve got this week covered
VISIT
The Hampshire village of Laverstoke may not be the most obvious place for producing Bombay Sapphire gin, but this rural distillery is well worth a visit. Opening its doors to the public for the first time this month, the former paper mill and conservation area has lots going on for gin lovers, from cocktail masterclasses to gin and tonic workshops. You can also ogle botanicals in the eye-popping designer glasshouse (left) and wind down with a complimentary tipple at the riverside Mill Bar. See distillery.bombaysapphire.com.
SEE
Soul Boys of the Western World tells the bittersweet story of Spandau Ballet through archive footage – from the band’s 80s success to the royalty wrangles that would test their friendships. It’s out in cinemas now – see spandauballetthemovie.com.
GO TO
The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is on from Thursday to Sunday in Manchester. Whether you’re buying or browsing, you’ll find inspiration in abundance, with designers showcasing their ceramics, textiles, jewellery and furniture. See greatnorthernevents.co.uk.
WATCH
She’s a familiar face to art fans, but how much do you know about the scandalous life of Euphemia Gray? Emma Thompson takes on the tale – as writer and actor – in Effie Gray, following the love triangle between the Pre-Raphaelite muse, art critic John Ruskin and painter John Everett Millais. Dakota Fanning, Julie Walters and David Suchet also star in the film, which is out on Friday.
LAUGH
Looking for a laugh? Then head to the Brighton Comedy Festival from Friday to October 25. Second only to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in size, it attracts more than 30,000 visitors a year – plus stand-ups such as Simon Amstell (right), Jon Richardson and Jimeoin (above) – so you’re sure to get the giggles. For a full list of acts and more details, visit brightoncomedyfestival.com.
READ
It’s been a busy year for John Cleese – following the Python reunion, the tireless septuagenarian is on the road again to launch his So, Anyway... memoir. Catch him at Waterstones Picadilly this Thursday or on tour with his one-man show, ending in Bristol on December 21. See johncleesetour.com.