A Parisian inspired view of Leighton Buzzard
There’s more in common than you think!
On a recent trip to Paris I was, perhaps, a little oddly, struck by the many similarities between our small town and one of the cultural centres of the world.
Historical Monuments
The famed Notre Dame cathedral began construction in 1163 and was completed in 1345 and our own All Saints Church was completed during the same period in 1245. Both were 10 bell churches and both have been ravaged by fire. Whilst the Eiffel Tower stretches to 300m our own spire is an impressive 58m and can be seen for miles around as a distinctive landmark.
Of course we can boast of many more historical structures including our 14th century Market Cross, and whilst Paris has its catacombs we have our own tunnels beneath the High Street. There are great many grade II listed buildings in our High Street dating to the 1600s and The Peacock building is believed to be built back to 1440.
Cafe Society
Paris enjoys a wealth of café society. Not to be beaten, here in Leighton Buzzard we are spoilt for choice with many independent establishments that include outdoor seating and Parisian vibes.
One perfect spot is the 17th Century Sorelli Café with it’s timber framed low ceilings, and sunny garden courtyard. Despite it’s Italian roots their onsite pastry chefs conjure up magical delights to rival our French neighbours. I overheard a discussion on the market between two people who had triumphantly managed to bag the last pistachio croissant from Piccolo Bakery, the takeaway of Sorelli. My firm favourite is their almond croissant which is melt in the mouth delicious. Visit daily for freshly made pastries and they offer local artisan bread too, what could me more Parisian than that?
Waterside Walks
A walk along the Seine is one of the ‘must dos’ of any Paris trip. We have our own stunning waterways; in my opinion far more picturesque than the Seine, from canal side pubs and cafe’s to nature walks alongside the River Ouzel and the Tiddenfoot waterside parks. Much like the Seine you can enjoy local art and crafts when the floating market comes to town and of course our Canal Festival.
Artists and Artisans
Whilst wandering the Place du Tertre in Montmartre you can admire the artists at work in an historic and vibrant environment. Likewise visit our market when the Creative Buzz are showcasing and see many local artists display their goods. The next Creative Buzz Makers Market is on 14th Sept 24. Keep an eye out for the Handmade and Vintage markets by the Town Council too and the the Leighton Buzzard Art Society hold workshops and displays.
Culture
There is no doubt about it Paris dazzles with museums, theatre and music and Leighton Buzzard also has a rich cultural offering. Our annual music festival, Buzzstock, the upcoming Buzz Cinema Festival, our local drama groups, theatre productions and live music at venues such as The Black Lion, Golden Bell , Ollie Vees and of course Crooked Crow Bar. A summer of Music in the Park culminating in Last Night of the Proms adds to our rich offering.
Fashion Flair
Strolling along the Champs Elysée admiring the stunning haute couture you may be surprised to know that Leighton Buzzard has 3 independent stylish boutiques, Kings Road Fashion, Marisa Helene and So You Boutique all offering the level of service and advice, you would expect from a Parisian experience,
Whilst Paris has much to offer it is important not to take for granted what’s on our doorstep. Look up to our historic roof tops, explore our incredible architecture and marvel that our little town has much to compare to the City of Lights.
To find out more about the history of our area visit the Leighton Buzzard and District Archaeological and Historical Society
