Best of Norfolk by Tilston Phillips

the best of

Norfolk JANUARY 2012 – DECEMBER 2012

10 TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

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the best of

Norfolk

What’s your Norfolk? To many, it’s the mingling together of expansive skies, endless beaches and the abundance of water, creating an atmosphere that’s entirely unique. To others, it’s the attraction of discovering distinctive villages and towns, or exploring the treasures of Norwich, while only ever being minutes away from the tranquillity of the countryside.

hether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor to the county, The Best of Norfolk Magazine has an array of ideas for making the most of what’s on offer – and there really is something for everyone. We are delighted to note that this marks the tenth issue of The Best of Norfolk Magazine, and while it has been a decade of change and transition, the magazine continues to expand on the strength of all that is great about Norfolk. With a visitor’s guide to the not-to-bemissed villages and towns, even Norfolk residents are sure to discover hidden treasures in their midst. Descriptions feature key historical elements of each place, highlights of annual events and an insider’s view on where to eat, drink, stay, shop and explore. At the heart of the county is, of course, the Fine City of Norwich. With its ancient roots and rich cultural landscape, Norwich is a forwardlooking city that hasn’t lost the charms of centuries past. Partly encircled by Roman walls, overlooked by a Norman castle and home to a magnificent cathedral, Norwich also maintains a medieval market, a superb library,

various galleries and theatres, and dozens of independent shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants, many of which are tucked down cobbled lanes and in timber-framed buildings. When even The New York Times deems it worthy of an exclusive travel story, as it did in 2011, it’s clear Norwich is more than just your average provincial city. Yet follow one of the rivers out of Norwich and it’s clear that Norfolk – with its winding lanes, lush lowlands and meandering Broads – offers countless riches for walkers, fans of water activities, bird and wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a peacefully pristine landscape. The Best of Norfolk has all the information you need to discover what’s waiting, whether you are looking for a memorable piece to add to your wardrobe, an adventurous day of sport or just a warming fire and local pint to wind down the day with. And if it’s the kind of place you can see yourself staying forever, The Best of Norfolk has ideas for every amenity from schools to getting the ‘Norfolk home’ look. Whatever your passion, we hope you enjoy discovering ‘your Norfolk’.

Jonathan Tilston Publisher

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Contents Publisher Jonathan Tilston Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Managing Director Deanna Tilston Sales Marina Jacobs Design Alan Brannan Design alanbrannandesign.co.uk Photographic Contributors Greater Yarmouth Tourism – David Street Norfolk Celebrating Talent ©VisitBritain – Rod Edwards ©VisitBritain – Britain on View ©VisitBritain – Richard Surman Kate Barclay Beeston Hall School Waveney River Centre Editorial Contributors Sarah Hardy Laura Potts Luceika (Squeak) Wagg Caroline Jarrold Sandy Bryne Shona Richards (Visit Norwich Ltd) Vanessa Scott Rachel de Thample

With special thanks to all advertisers Please send to: Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 141 Norwich Road Ipswich IP1 2PP 01473 286155 sales@tilstonphillips.com tilstonphillips.com ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 2012

Aylsham Blakeney The Burnhams Cley-next-the-sea Cromer Dereham Diss Fakenham Great Yarmouth Holt Hunstanton Kings Lynn Norwich Reepham Sheringham Swaffham Thornham Walsingham Wells-next-the-sea Wroxham The Broads Horning The great outoors Birdwatching Children’s Norfolk Across the border Churches Stately homes & gardens Sandringham The best of Norfolk food A gourmet’s guide The best of Norfolk interiors The best of Norfolk galleries The best of Norfolk schools Literary Norfolk Opening doors for your business

7 9 10 17 18 20 23 24 26 28 36 39 42 62 65 66 71 73 74 79 81 89 90 92 94 96 102 106 108 109 118 126 134 137 142 144

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A t0 Z of Norfolk towns

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Great days out in Norfolk Refresh and rejuvenate your body and mind by escaping to the revitalising experiences that Norfolk has to offer in abundance.

orfolk is a great destination at any time of year. Miles of unspoilt coastline, internationally important nature reserves and amazing wildlife, hundreds of picturesque villages, historic market towns, fantastic seaside resorts and of course The Broads. A day out in Norfolk can be fantastic fun for all the family whatever your age. Norfolk has many places that will appeal to young children making it the ideal place to visit for families. Children will thrive without need of television or computers as they fish for crabs from the quay at Wells or Blakeney, but if it is wet there are lots of fun places to take them: indoor leisure centres and swimming pools, the Poppy Line steam

railway or the myriad attractions of traditional resorts such as Hunstanton (‘Sunny Hunny’) or Great Yarmouth with its splendid funfair and circus. Children will also adore Bewilderwood, at Hoveton, where ‘strange creatures’ have built their tree-house homes and you can explore the Muddle Maze or creep along wobbly zip wires. There is nothing, though, to beat life out in the open in Norfolk, whether for the whole family or through the pursuit of interest in natural history, birdlife, walking, riding, fishing or cycling, or perhaps by boat on the Broads. One excellent means of seeing the county is by train – perhaps on the North Norfolk Railway from Sheringham to Holt, the Bure Valley railway at Aylsham or the

Wells and Walsingham Light Railway. Noel Coward did us a grave disservice when he stated “Very flat, Norfolk.” On the contrary, it is a gently undulating landscape on the whole, ideal for walking or riding from one surprisingly beautiful view to the next and dotted with excellent pubs and lovely picnic places to stop and enjoy the unique tranquillity. In summer there are endless fêtes and carnivals: Cromer in particular has a famous week of festivities while every village will have either craft or antique fairs, cricket matches or a good pub, perhaps on a pretty green. The main tourist attraction of Norfolk is that you find your own, and it is still easily possible to feel far from the madding crowd in this most unspoilt of counties.

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Aylsham The attractive market town of Aylsham forms an excellent gateway to glorious north Norfolk. Nestling in the Bure Valley, it puts food at the top of the menu!

Classic Norfolk

A charming town of historic properties Aylsham is a great example of a thriving place to live and work – a town with an accent on independent shops which sell local produce from local suppliers. As one of only two dedicated Cittaslows in Norfolk, it shows a real commitment to living well as this movement, which originated in Italy and translates as Slow City, promotes eating well, drinking well and generally chilling out! The weekly market, held on Mondays, is a good place to start while the two monthly farmers’ markets are held on the first and third Saturdays of the month and showcase many of the region’s small producers, from butchers to bakers and all things in-between. Make time to explore the town itself with its spidery alleyways and lanes surrounding the bustling Market Place where the gothic architecture of St Michaels and All Angels Church is awe-inspiring. Local shops to call by include Black Sheep for its country clothes, especially chunky knits, and G F White, an award winning butcher’s shop with great sausages!

The historic Weavers' Way and Marriott's Way both pass directly through the town so there are some great walking options, too. Nearby is one of East Anglia’s finest stately homes, the Jacobean Blickling Hall which is now run by the National Trust. It is immediately impressive, with its grand facade flanked by ancient yew hedging. Once home to Anne Boleyn, there are formal gardens, lovely estate walks around a large lake (can you find England’s only pyramid?) and that essential tea shop. Nowadays you can also hire bikes – and this is perfect cycling territory so pack up a picnic and head off! The hall also stages regular events such as craft fairs, gardening tours and so on while the Aylsham Show, held in its park every August bank holiday Monday, is a very traditional country show where the competition is fierce! At the hall’s gates is the Buckinghamshire Arms gastropub, known as the Buck by locals, which is another great pit stop possibility.

Outdoor concerts are held in the grounds in the summer months where audiences are encouraged to bring their picnic hampers and soak up the atmosphere. Artists as diverse as Madness and Katherine Jenkins entertained thousands last year. And just on the outskirts of the town is the 15-inch gauge Bure Valley Railway which was built in 1990 and is operated by steam locomotives. A trip from Aylsham to the Broads at Wroxham is an enjoyable way to while away an afternoon or a day, stopping as it does at various typically Norfolk villages en route. Also in Aylsham’s vicinity are Mannington and Wolterton Halls, homes of the Walpole family and with beautiful gardens, and another excellent award-winning pub, the Walpole Arms at Itteringham. If Eton Mess is on the menu, it’s a must!

AYLSHAM SHOW AUGUST | BURE VALLEY RAILWAY STEAM GALA SEPTEMBER

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theflintgallery

contemporary & applied arts

pictures

sculpture

Quay Art

ceramics

5 Westgate Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7NQ 01263 741791 www.theflintgallery.co.uk

PICTURES SCULPTURE POTTERY JEWELLERY 4 The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7AL Tel:01263 741791

Blakeney Hotel The Blakeney Hotel, with its magnificent quayside location overlooking the estuary and salt marshes to Blakeney Point, is the perfect place for a relaxing short break, a meal in the award-winning restaurant, morning coffee or afternoon tea. The hotel has over 60 bedrooms offering a wide choice of accommodation. Many rooms have wonderful views: some have a balcony or south facing garden views and others have terraces leading onto the garden. The stylish leisure facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, spa bath, steam room, sauna and mini gym.

www.blakeneyhotel.co.uk reception@blakeneyhotel.co.uk

Blakeney Hotel & Restaurant The Quay, Blakeney, Holt, Norfolk Tel: 01263 740797

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Blakeney In pursuit of the innocent pleasures of English coastal life, you need look no farther than Blakeney

An enchanting coastline The perfect place where the sea meets the sky Situated on a stretch of the coast that offers such variety and so many places of interest, Blakeney is lively and bustling in the summer, but in the best way – where children are seen poring over crabs in buckets down at the Quay, bags of mussels can be bought from cottages and the excellent fishmonger; stylish food shops jostle for position with others selling charming gifts, clothing and homeware. And boats are everywhere! Whether the warm, marshy creeks are filled with the rushing waters of the tide and boats spin out into the glorious Blakeney Harbour, or are empty with their black, muddy banks inviting mischief from children, Blakeney is a family holiday destination par excellence. You might see Charlie Ward’s magnificent replica Thames sailing barge, Juno, setting out for a day’s sailing along the coast (in full sail if the wind permits), or boats full of day-trippers chugging out across the harbour. Or you may just call in at one of several charming pubs and cafés for lunch, or a cocktail at the Blakeney Hotel with superb views over the marshes. Once a major and thriving port, the harbour gradually silted up, but there were old smuggling tunnels reputedly running across the village from the marsh to the 14th-century Guildhall, the remains of which can still be seen today. The coastal village also is home to two engaging galleries, The Flint Gallery, located just back from the quay, exhibits the very finest in contemporary art created by a variety of established artists,

some local and others from further a field, but all inspired by the region’s beautiful scenery with its fascinating combination of countryside and coast. Also, Quay Art, located at the bottom of High Street, a light and modern art space showing a wide variety of quality contemporary works including original paintings, prints, linocuts, etchings, photographs and greeting cards. There is also an extensive selection of pottery, sculpture, fused glass and handcrafted jewellery inspired by our coastline. This stretch of coast is, arguably, most famous for its astonishing variety of wildlife. Heaven for bird-watchers, they and everyone else will thoroughly enjoy the absorbing experience of the Wildfowl Collection just across the road from the Manor Hotel, and coastal paths allow links with the neighbouring villages of Cley-next-the-Sea and Morston: at Morston Hall Hotel, Galton Blackiston continues to serve fabulous Michelinstarred food. You could book a well-deserved minibreak or take a week to really explore. Set in stunning grounds of just under three acres, 17th-century White Horse Farm Barns offers beauty and tranquility in the heart of the North Norfolk Countryside. If a picnic on the beach is what you fancy head up high to Blakeney Delicatessen. You will find a wonderful array of freshlybaked quiches, cakes and sausage-rolls which are renowned as the best in the area. A few olives, a couple of salads, a chilled bottle of rosé and you have the perfect alfresco lunch.

SEAL TRIPS Booking these trips is strongly recommended. All seal trip companies will take you out to Blakeney Harbour, with fully qualified crew on board able to share their local knowledge with you. The seals, both Common and Grey will normally be basking on the end of Blakeney Point. Norfolk mostly has common seals in the summer months, who arrive at Blakeney Point to have their pups. The pups start arriving about June, and will continue through until the end of August. The Grey seals have their pups in the months of November and December, so Christmas is a good time for viewing if you wrap up warm! They are very inquisitive animals and will often swim around the boats. This is a perfect time for photographs, so don't forget your camera! You will also get the chance to land you on Blakeney Point when the tide allows, and walk up to the old Lifeboat house which is now an information centre owned by the National Trust. Blakeney Point is also famous for its bird life. Its most popular summer visitors are the terns – mainly Common, Sandwich and Little Terns and, quite often, also Arctic Terns. Many of them begin to arrive from West Africa during mid-April and breed into the season. They make a small scrape in the shingle where they lay their eggs. After hatching, the chicks can be seen running along the shoreline near the seals. The trip is a unique experience for all ages – a rare opportunity to visit wildlife in its natural surroundings. No specialist clothing is required just an extra jumper or fleece against the sea breeze! All boats depart from Morston Quay, Morston, Nr. Blakeney. Sat Nav NR25 7AA Trip lasts approximately 1 hour www.sealtrips.co.uk www.Beansboattrips.co.uk

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Chelsea-on-Sea

Discover the delights of the Burnhams

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The Burnhams Make time to visit all seven of the Burnhams, navigating your route by the medieval churches that are to be found in these villages

Burnham Market is situated a stone’s throw from the glorious north Norfolk coastline with stunning beaches and creeks, Scolt Head Island, nature reserves, excellent coastal walks, sailing, and renowned restaurants and hotels. It is the perfect place to shop, dine or simply stay awhile and soak up the traditional village atmosphere. Many towns in Britain, dominated by chain stores, look very much like another. But Burnham Market boasts a traditional post office, butcher, baker, hardware shop, fishmonger, grocer, greengrocer and chemist for all the necessities of everyday life. There are also many other highly original independent and specialist shops selling a wide range of exciting delicatessen products, vibrant and stylish accessories for home and garden, trendy clothes for all the family, books old and new and antiques. There are no fewer than four art galleries.

The exciting array of eateries serves everything from fine meals to afternoon tea and The Hoste Arms hotel accounts in no small measure for its reputation as a stylish haunt for young and old alike. Its luxury spa is simply the place to be seen! The Hat Shop is famous for its enormous range – there are usually around 3000 hats on offer at any given time, Anna’s boutique is packed with ontrend labels such as Joseph, Anya Hindmarsh, Odd Molly and Michael Kors and Humble Pie deli will have you drooling, too, especially if you try their own jams and chutneys. Very yummy! Norfolk Living is a must – an extensive ‘lifestyle’ shop with stunning displays in a double-fronted Georgian building, courtyard, old stable and barn offering garden pots and furniture, soft furnishings, home and fashion accessories, jewellery and much more.

But it is not just about shopping and eating. Burnham Market, nicknamed Chelsea on the Sea because of its top end feel, claims to be Norfolk’s loveliest village, with its mainly Georgian buildings surrounding a huge green, mature trees and, in some years, a stream called the Goose Beck flowing through the middle. The annual craft fair, music festival and horse trials are very popular as are the summer auctions on The Green. The local churches in the other Burnham villages all have something special, especially Burnham Thorpe, the birthplace of Lord Nelson. And Burnham Deepdale is becoming quite the place for those who like glamping. There’s a backpackers’ hostel, a camp site with yurts and tipis and a very good café – plus a growing numbers of shops inluding the ever popular Fat Face.

SUBURU HOUGHTON INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIAL AT BURNHAM MARKET MAY BURNHAM MARKET FLOWER SHOW AND CARNIVAL JULY | BURNHAM MARKET CRAFT FAIR AUGUST BURNHAM MARKET BOOK FESTIVAL OCTOBER – Check out www.burnhammarket.co.uk the best of Norfolk

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Take sea, sand, fresh air and lazy hazy days, mix together with delightful clothing and wonderful toys, it’s a great recipe for happy kids

Inspired by childhood memories B KIDZ is a truly delightful shopping experience. Opened in 2004 by owner Annie Gordon. “Having had four children and two grand children I know from experience how difficult it is to find fantastic toys and clothes at reasonable prices… so B KIDZ was born” Annie fell in love with the North Norfolk Coast many years ago. Bringing up her children here felt like the clock had been turned back many years. It is this nostalgic slant on rural life that is so clearly visible from all the shelves and rails that are bursting with marvellous things.

The clothes won’t be found easily on the High Street, vintage clothing from Their Nibs and Rachel Riley are timeless. Organic companies Frugi and Kite Kids are simply made for the beach. Baby clothes from Organics For Kids, Emile et Rose and Petit Bateau are just perfect for little ones. Fun and safety are the key ingredients to the glorious blend of traditional and modern toys, many being Fair Trade, eco-friendly and sustainable such as Le Toy Van, Djeco and Moulin Roty to name but a few. This shop has everything you need for a fairytale coastal childhood!

Open Monday – Saturday 10am-5pm. Closed three weeks in January Emma’s Court | Market Place | Burnham Market | Norfolk PE31 8HD Telephone: 01328 738950 www.bkidz.co.uk

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Grooms Bakery have been baking in Burnham Market since 1923 and have remained a traditional family business ever since. Arthur Groom established the business in 1923 after working for a local bakery, Hammonds in 1921. But Arthur decided to open up his own shop and provide the locals with freshly-baked, traditional bread and cakes. Times have obviously changed over the years. The first oven Grooms used was called a ‘Faggot oven’ and wood was used to fire it up, then they switched to using coal, then oil. The ‘Faggot oven’ was removed from the building 30 years ago and the upheaval and hard work was all too obvious when their shoes were melting while standing on the roof of the oven because it was still too hot. So it was replaced with a ‘Six deck oven’ powered by electricity and this is the oven Grooms use today.

James Groom, grandson of Arthur Groom, is now at the helm and still provides that traditional produce but he has also introduced modern food as there was so much demand. To tickle your taste buds there is a vast variety of freshly-baked produce – ranging from homemade quiches, more exotic breads to choose from, such as spelt bread (very fashionable with health addicts), takeaway hot soup to warm you up in the winter, freshly-made sandwiches with sumptuous, lip-smacking fillings, hot paninis cooked to order and, of course, conventional pasties, sausage rolls and so on. So, if you still fancy the old-fashioned sponge cake, or jam doughnut, then you will not be disappointed, but if you fancy something more exotic then Grooms is the bakery for you.

The choice of pastries is very tempting, so beware, if you are visiting for just one loaf you will probably wind up getting yourself a treat (or two). Grooms also provide local restaurants and pubs, so if you are an up-andcoming new catering business be sure to speak to James about your requirements. They are also happy to help with picnic arrangements too, which is very handy for those long walks on the beautiful North Norfolk coast. Additionally, Grooms also stock day-to-day provisions, such as tea, coffee, sugar, jam, etc, which makes life so much easier for locals and visitors alike. So it is a ‘one-stop’ for all things good. Grooms bakery is 100 per cent committed and passionate about their products and, they know how to deliver!

Grooms Bakery, Market Place, Burnham Market, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 8HD. Telephone: 01328 738289

WHOLESALE DELIVERIES AVAILABLE WITHIN A 25 MILE RADIUS

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Norfolk Living offers a carefully-selected and ever-changing range of imaginative home, garden and fashion accessories. Their discerning buying team has an unerring sense of style and knows what is good value. If you are one of the lucky ones who has already discovered ‘Norfolk Living’ in Burnham Market, you will know how deceptively large it is. Walk through the double-fronted Georgian interior, with its original fireplaces, then into the sanctuary of the leafy courtyard and explore the old stable, barn and cottage. Its reputation has quickly spread far beyond Norfolk and its inspiring displays of both the decorative and functional are a feast for the eyes. Everything you need is here to enhance your home, holiday cottage, conservatory, terrace and garden. Colours range through the seasons from vibrant summer deckchair stripes to cosy autumnal and rich winter shades. There are cushions and throws, glassware and china, jewellery and bags. A delicious scent from candles and carefully selected toiletries pervades the air. Clocks, lamps, stationery, mirrors and distressed furniture complete the look. Venture outside into the courtyard where there is a huge selection of modern and traditional garden pots, bird-baths, statues and stone plaques. The barn, old stable and cottage house stylish wrought- iron furniture and accessories in creams, blues and greens. Ironwork, candleholders, planters, baskets, enamelware, birdhouses and garden accessories are also in abundance. ‘Norfolk Living’ is home to a wide range of goodies, but is cohesive in its style, putting into practice its ethos that good-looking products do not have to be expensive. So why not treat yourself and come and enjoy the ‘Norfolk Living’ experience – you will not be disappointed!

NORFOLK LIVING MARKET PLACE BURNHAM MARKET NORFOLK PE31 8HF TEL: 01328 730668 www.norfolkliving.co.uk Photography by Andrew Kitt

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Burnham Market Pine Take a close look at a piece of Burnham Market Pine and you will not find a plywood back or a factory spray finish. The items of furniture that leave Tim Healey’s premises on the edge of one of Norfolk’s loveliest villages are handfinished, quality items, made from new or reclaimed timber and waxed or painted to order. Yet they remain affordable, and can usually be made to order within two to three weeks. It is the combination of quality, reasonable prices and service that keeps customers beating a path to his door. And that keeps the merchandise flowing out of it – much of it to London, where Burnham Market Pine makes a delivery about once a month. With 100 or so pieces in stock, from milk stools to mantelpieces and from bedside cabinets to wardrobes, Burnham Market Pine customers have plenty of ideas to choose from. Best-sellers include the rustic dining or coffee tables that take a breath of the country with them wherever they go.

With its staff of six, the company is able to tackle commissions of most styles and sizes, so this is definitely the place to come if you are looking for a lovely large table to accommodate all your family and friends at the heart of your home. They have made several seven-footers and one measuring a whopping 12ft x 3ft 6in. Also, this year, they have made a 14ft 6in long x 8ft 6in high bookcase and a 16ft 6in desk with four pedestals for a large country house. If it is painted pine you are after then Gina, Tim’s wife, can oblige. She is the one who provides the paint finishes. Open seven days a week, browsers are welcome at the company’s warehouse building (near the garage on the Fakenham Road) where they will also find an eclectic range of giftware to tempt them alongside the main merchandise.

Contact: Burnham Market Pine | Telephone: 01328 738009 | Mobile: 07917 202 529 info@burnhammarket.co.uk | www.burnhammarketpine.co.uk the best of Norfolk

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A celebration of everything that’s Norfolk 27-28 June 2012 26-27 June 2013

For tickets - call: 01603 748931 or visit: www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk

BTOI / Main Road, Holkham, NR23 1AD 10:30 – 4:30 / Closed Tuesdays www.bringingtheoutsidein.co.uk T. 01328 713093 Find us next to the entrance of The Victoria & Holkham Estate

Coastal Lifestyle Gallery / Take a piece of the coast home

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Established 10 years ago by local landscape photographer Martin Billing, Bringing the outside in has forged a reputation as one of the ‘must see’ galleries along the North Norfolk coast. With the elements at it’s heart, Bringing the outside in, is a retail experience unlike any other where all customers are free to explore and discover everything it has to oﬀer.

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Cley-next-the-Sea The small but beautifully formed village of Cley makes for a very worthwhile trip, with great foodie options, marvellous birdlife and much for arts and crafts lovers, too.

A coastal paradise

A full day out to feast, relax and explore Cley, pronounced so it rhymes with pie, is a pretty village right on the shoreline but protected by an immense shingle bank, not far from Holt. It’s a lovely place to visit, especially as part of a walk where you can enjoy the gable ended houses, wide open skies and masses of fresh air. And, as you’ll come to expect in Norfolk, food plays a big part of village life. Cley Smoke House has the best kippers around, delicious smoked salmon and some lovely pates. Picnic Fayre, a well established deli, has everything from an organic wine cellar, to a cheese counter, an antipasta bar and masses of locally produced fruit and veg and is another great place to create your own picnic.

The George Hotel is keeper of the local birding bible, a magnificent tome where people record the birdlife they have spotted in the area, and is perfect for a post walk pint! The Three Swallows pub, close to the impressive 18th century church of St Margaret’s, is another good foodie option. Cley windmill is one of the county’s iconic landmarks (remember seeing it on the Beeb – it was on telly for ages with a big balloon flying overhead) and now operates as a guesthouse with both B&B accommodation and self catering options. Cley Marshes Nature Reserve and Visitors Centre, with its salt marshes and tidal creeks, has a noticeboard alerting keen bird-watchers to species recently observed.

With its telescopes pointing out towards the shingle bank and the sea, this is a good starting point for acquainting yourself with the local birdlife. The village is also home to two great arty options. Made in Cley is a co-operative of craftsman and women who create exceptional handmade pieces for the home while the Pinkfoot Gallery presents work by some of the best local artists around, with works by co-owner Rachel Lockwood often on display. Nearby is the beautiful Glandford Valley where the elegant Bayfield Hall has The Old Stables, an emporium of upmarket interiors, gifts and floral shops in a lovely historic setting. See if you can find the nearby shell museum – now there’s a challenge!

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Cromer Known in its Victorian and Edwardian heyday as the Gem of the Norfolk Coast, Cromer remains a fun filled family resort

Beside the seaside, beside the sea... A town steeped in history and fame Cromer is world famous for those utterly delicious crabs (best in the early summer) but there are many attractions to entice the visitor including its church, lighthouse and pier. Cromer’s Parish Church, the Church of St Peter and St Paul, dominates the town, its massive perpendicular tower, thought to be the highest in Norfolk, can be seen from whichever direction you approach the town. The tower is open to visitors and while the climb is steep and somewhat demanding the view from the top is well worth the effort and it’s interesting to reflect that before the erection of a lighthouse at Cromer, lights for the guidance of vessels were shown from this tower. They were small, but served a useful purpose for many years. The Pavilion Theatre, at the end of the pier, is home to the famous Seaside Special, one of the last End-of-the-Pier summer variety shows in England. The show regularly plays to packed houses and has over the years broken many box office records. Its draw is its simplicity, the show is the star, its aim

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is to please and delight the audience with comedy, music, song and dance. Seaside Special runs from June 15 to September 29 with shows each night except Sundays. For those holiday visitors who enjoy a Christmas break then Christmas Seaside Special, a superb variety show of music, comedy song and dance with a special festive twist, is a show not to be missed. It runs for the month of December with two shows a day, six days a week. The theatre is also host to a rich variety of celebrity concerts and shows and is also in demand from many local artists and plays host to the regular May production from the Cromer and Sheringham Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society. It is also the home to the annual Folk on the Pier festival from May 11-13 with acts such as the Albion Band and Richard Digance. Tides restaurant, at the land end of the pier, is open daily from Easter until the end of December, offering a wide choice of meals, snacks, and lunches. The theatre bar, open all year, is a great place to simply gaze out to sea as you enjoy that G&T!

Cromer’s safe, sandy beaches have for some years won both the Keep Britain Tidy Seaside Award and the prestigious EU Blue Flag award for water quality. Patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season, the beach is ideal for families of all ages. Indeed, Cromer is fast becoming an in destination for surfers, with a surf school held in the summer and many competitions taking place. Cromer Carnival is one of the biggest in East Anglia with events staged throughout the town. The Runton Road car park carnival field is home to the main events, funfair, arena events and the famous fancy dress ball. Cromer Carnival day is the only weekday during the summer season that the Pavilion Theatre does not present a show. For one night only the cast of Seaside Special hang up their costumes and join in the celebrations with their own carnival float. Cromer boasts two museums. The Cromer Museum, displaying a host of local history, geology and archaeology, is housed in a row of fishermen’s cottages next to the church. The RNLI Lifeboat

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CROMER FACT FILE Cromer and Sheringham Crab & Lobster Festival 18th -20th May (Friday night to Sunday night) The Crab and Lobster Festival is a weekend celebration with a wide range of events and activities that celebrate local links with the sea. From town crier competitions and cookery lessons through to a twist on the traditional Punch and Judy show and of course the world famous crabbing competition - the full programme of events for this year’s Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster Festival can be found at: www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk

Cromer Carnival 11th -17th August Now in its 43rd year – Carnival week 2012 runs from Saturday 11th to Friday 17th August, with Carnival Day being held on Wednesday 15th August 2012. For further details check out www.cromercarnival.co.uk

Cromer and Sheringham Arts Festival Museum can be found at the foot of the Gangway, packed full of history and tales of bravery, including a tribute to Cromer’s most famous lifeboat coxswain Henry Blogg. The town’s ever-growing collection of interesting shops caters for most tastes and fashions while its choice of places to eat, from the traditional seaside pubs to cafés and restaurants, gives visitors the chance to sample the famous Cromer Crab or a good old-fashioned portion of fish and chips – try Mary Jane’s for the freshest in town but watch out for the queues as this is a seriously popular place. The Dining Room at Virginia Court Hotel is proud to serve daily Norfolk breakfasts and evening meals using fresh locally sourced food, beers from Norfolk breweries are also available. With its contemporary feel the hotel is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, especially if it includes an overnight stay! An excursion that shouldn’t be missed is the walk to Cromer Lighthouse which can be reached either from Cromer itself (turning right at the pier and walking along the Esplanade) or from the

Overstand clifftop car-park, here a footpath can be found that takes you along the clifftop, past the Royal Cromer Golf Club. The present lighthouse, a white octagonal tower standing about ½ mile from the cliff edge, was built in 1833 and converted to electric operation in 1958. In June 1990 the station was converted to automatic operation and is now monitored from Harwich. Cromer Amazona Zoo is great fun if you have little ones. The South American themed zoo, set in 10 acres, has raccoons, monkeys and a reptile house and the emphasis is on getting up close and personal – if you dare! At nearby West Runton, where a fossilised mammoth was discovered in the cliffs in 1990, you can go rock pooling and the village’s Shire Horse Centre is where you can admire heavy horses at work – and go riding yourself. The Bittern Line links Norwich with Cromer and Sheringham and is a great and somehow appropriate way of arriving at this seaside spot which developed thanks to the invention of the railway.

27th October - 3rd November Nine days of concerts, exhibitions, lectures, workshops and events at venues between Salthouse and Overstrand celebrating the creativity of the artistic community living and working in the North Norfolk coastal area. www.casaf.co.uk

Cromer Museum Church Street, Cromer NR27 9HB Summer opening: Mon – Sat 10.00am – 5.00pm Sun 2.00pm – 5.00pm Winter opening: Mon – Sat 10.00am -4.00pm Telephone: 01263 513543 cromer.museum@norfolk.gov.uk www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

The RNLI Henry Blogg Museum The Rocket House, Cromer NR27 9ET Open: Tues – Sun February – March: 10.00am – 4.00pm April – September: 10.00am – 5.00pm October – November: 10.00am – 4.00pm Closed: December – January www.rnli.org.uk

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Dereham Bustling Dereham is at the heart of Norfolk – a perfect spot from which to explore the county, especially the hidden treasures of Breckland

Explore the dark side

But with an innocent charm and character

Breckland is a lesser known area of Norfolk but one worth taking time to investigate. East Dereham, or Dereham as it is more commonly called (West Dereham is out in the Fens!) is one of its typical market towns – and what history it has! St Withburga, a saint granted a holy vision, is buried in the town churchyard where, legend has it, a spring appeared around her grave which in turn has inspired generations of pilgrims to make the journey to Dereham. Darker tales are told of the 14thcentury Bishop Bonner, the Bishop of London instructed by Mary Tudor to burn hundreds of Protestants at the stake. His little cottage is, today, a museum of innocent charm and character that belies its evil past. Despite a relatively modern-looking appearance in its shop-fronts, Dereham has many buildings of historic charm and interest which include some fine Georgian structures as well as the 16thcentury bell-tower used as a prison in Napoleonic times.

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Dereham has a variety of shops including a legendary sausage-making butcher, restaurants, pubs and bars and, on Tuesdays and Fridays, a lively market. There is also a farmers’ market on the second Saturday of the month. The modern library and large leisure centre are useful options for those with families who will also really enjoy Gressenhall Farm and Museum which is a couple of miles out of town. You can explore the former Victorian workhouse – try to find the creepy punishment cell – and enjoy dressing up as a Victorian and going on cart rides. At Home Farm you learn about the farming techniques of yesteryear – look out for the magnificent heavy horses and maybe even have a go at ploughing a field yourself. And don’t miss the Norfolk shortbread in the café – it’ll set you up for more sight seeing!

main photo: Taber photography

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The

Carrick Estate

Incorporating Carrick’s, Darbys Freehouse & Restaurant and Hunters Hall At Carrick’s at Castle Farm we aim to cater for the needs of all of our guests to ensure that their stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Open all year round we are a Five Star Gold Award establishment, offering bed and breakfast accommodation, to the highest possible standards. The Castle Farm house was in need of complete renovation and in September 2005 the roof was removed, repaired and retiled using the old tiles and the castellation rebuilt. By July 2007 the interior of the house was completely refurbished to provide four en-suite letting rooms, guests lounge and dining room and owner’s accommodation. Heating for the under floor system is provided by a 100 Kw woodchip boiler, which also heats an adjoining cottage. Guests can experience a stay in a family home where each bedroom is named after a member of the family, all of whom had diverse interests from owning a regional brewery to being the leading light in establishing the post impressionist school for ladies in Paris.

The rooms have the elegance and luxury of a bygone age but with up-todate touches. The fruits of the hedgerows, orchards and vegetable garden are harvested and made into conserves, pickles, pies and tarts as well as traditional cakes and puddings made in our own kitchens together with our own Rare Breed beef are available to purchase. A permissive footpath meanders along the banks of the River Wensum and through the water meadows before tracking around the headland of fields planted with wheat, barley, oil seed rape and beans, which incidentally when the bees feed on the nectar, produces beautiful honey, (which is available to buy), as well as beef. The Farm Following Brian Carrick's death in 1972, John embarked upon a programme of setting up a number of new enterprises, long before the word ‘diversification’ had entered every-day agricultural parlance. These enterprises utilise farm buildings which were no

longer suitable for modern-day arable and livestock farming. Both farms were originally part of the 7000 acre Bylaugh Estate which was sold in 1919. Brian Carrick, John's father, purchased Castle Farm in 1929. Park Farm, immediately to the south was purchased in 1946. The Pennyspot Herd of White Parks was formed by John Carrick in 1995 with the purchase of three females from the Ridgeway and Ash Herds. Now numbering 25 cows the herd grazes the River Wensum water meadows in central Norfolk. The White Park Cattle are the ideal choice for conservation grazing and support the farm’s High Level Stewardship Scheme with their grazing of the species rich grassland. The meadowland, grazed by the farm’s suckler cows receives no fertiliser or agrochemicals. The result has been a dramatic increase in biodiversity with a number of species of flora and fauna making a welcome return after many years absence.

Carrick’s at Castle Farm Castle Farm, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk NR20 4JT. Tel: 01362 638 302 www.carricksatcastlefarm.co.uk Hunters Hall, Park Farm Swanton, Morley, Dereham, Norfolk NR20 4JU. Tel: 01362 637 457 www.huntershall.com Darby’s Public House & Restaurant Elsing Road, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk NR20 4JU. Tel: 01362 637 647

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Diss Gentle Diss offers great antique hunting, cosy cafes and two world class gardens on its doorstep

A truly historic market town Traced back to the Domesday Book

The town lies in the beautiful Waveney Valley and grew up around one of the deepest natural inland lakes in the country. Known as the Mere, it covers six acres and provides a picturesque setting for an eclectic selection of timber-framed Tudor buildings, fine red brick Georgian houses and elegant Victorian dwellings. There are many thriving shops and cafes including, on Mere Street, Mere Moments and the Diss Publishing Café – which has outside tables overlooking the water for sunny days. There is a market every Friday and flea markets and farmers’ markets are held the second Saturday of the month at 9am -1pm. Also on Fridays an antiques and collectables auction is held at Gazes Saleroom, which has achieved fame through TV programmes such as Cash in the Attic and Bargain Hunt. The Mere is bordered on one side by Diss Park where children can have fun on the challenging play equipment or visitors can simply relax and chat, or mardle, as it’s known in Norfolk. A short walk from the park is Fair Green, a charming village green surrounded by character cottages. A charter to hold an annual fair was originally granted for the town in the 1100s and from the mid-1400s was held on Fair Green complete with bear baiting

and cock fighting. Travelling fairs and circuses continue to visit the Green to this day. There is also Quaker wood which was opened by Richard Mabey in 2010, this five acre community woodland off Factory Lane is the latest addition to the town’s natural resources. In 2006, Diss became a Cittaslow town and it has actively embraced the aims of the movement to preserve and enhance the traditional way of life and the character of market towns. Nearby is Bressingham Steam Museum and Gardens, with Victorian gallopers ready to greet you. The Museum has a whole section on the hit TV programme Dads’ Army which was filmed at nearby Thetford Forest and many steam engines to explore. There are two gardens to visit – Alan Bloom’s The Dell where the concept of island beds was developed and his son, Alan’s garden, Foggy Bottom, where the joy of year round colour is developed. Three narrow gauge railways run through the grounds so you can let the train take the strain! For more information on Diss and all it has to offer, please visit: www.south-norfolk.gov.uk/visiting

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Fakenham The fortunes of Fakenham have risen and fallen in the press like a rollercoaster: from being dubbed the most boring town in England, it has ascended to the lauded position of seventh best place to live in the UK, in Country Life

A great place to live

Days at the races and shopping galore

Fakenham is a major agricultural centre on the River Wensum with a colourful Thursday market that is a huge draw for collectors, browsers, visitors and locals. The town, handily situated near both the coast and Norwich, has an attractive cinema in its Georgian town centre, in the former Corn Exchange. Varied shops line this attractive area which, on Thursdays, is transformed into a riot of activity with stalls from fabrics to

vegetables, local eggs and fish, and every form of garment and shoe available. There is also a popular monthly farmers’ market held on the fourth Saturday of every month and a craft market takes place in the Parish Church for 10 months of the year from March to December. Race days are keenly anticipated at Fakenham Racecourse, of which HRH the Prince of Wales is patron, and its £1.25 million stand is named in his honour. They are really family affairs and a great place to see and be seen! And you should keep an eye out for the Arab horse racing days where you can watch (and bet on) these magnificent beasts. Other sporting attractions in Fakenham include golf, tennis and both indoor and outdoor bowling. There is even a fascinating small museum, the Museum of Gas and Local History, housed in the original

PENSTHORPE GARDEN AND FOOD FAIR JUNE

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gasworks, where you can learn more about the town's noble past – especially its gas supplies! Nearby is Thursford, home of Thursford at Christmas, aka the Thursford Spectacular, the biggest Christmas show on the British stage which takes place at a little village farm. With dancing girls, choirs, fabulous costumes and more, it is hard to describe – you need to see it to believe it! And don’t miss Pensthorpe Nature Reserve, again just out of town. The nature reserve is home to many exotic and rare waterbirds and has hosted the BBC’s SpringWatch. The Jordan family have created a really good day out here, complete with an excellent café, shop, numerous talks, courses and more – children always enjoy bug collecting and pond dipping and their Piet Oudolf Millenium Garden should not be missed for its very dramatic planting.

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Courtyard Shopping

Creakey Café

10-4pm Tues-Sun

Breakfast, lunch, Antiques and furniture, afternoon tea, cakes, home furnishings and snacks and ice cream fabrics, country clothing all set in a family and children’s wear + friendly café. beauty therapies!

plus…

Plant Lovers’ Day

Farmers’ Market

Saturday 26th May 10-4pm

9.30-1pm on the first Saturday of every month

Fine local produce from 45+ producers at award winning market.

Specialist nurseries showing and selling splendid plants from old roses to bamboo.

Artist Studios, Special Events, Ruins & Walks

Visit our website for year-round special events and more information:

155 B1

Coast road

A149

5 B115

BurnhamThorpe

T: 07801 418907

55 B13

www.creakeabbey.co.uk

A149

Burnham Market

Creake Abbey North Creake, Norfolk NR21 9LF

North Creake

Fakenham 6 miles

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Great Yarmouth It's big, bold and sometimes brash – Great Yarmouth certainly lives up to its reputation as Norfolk's leading resort

What puts the great into Great Yarmouth? A year round resort with something for everyone

Where to start with Great Yarmouth – it is an action-packed sort of place from the thrills and spills of the Pleasure Beach to the evocative history portrayed at the Time and Tide Museum to the amazing circus acts on offer at the Hippodrome. It really must have something for everyone. If it is a bucket and spade holiday you're after, the town has miles of glorious sandy beaches. There are donkey rides, pitch and putt courses, boating lakes, fish and chip shops, arcades, beach volleyball, candy floss by the bucket-load and all things in-between. The Pleasure Beach, set in nine acres, is perhaps the town's centre piece. With white knuckle rides, log flumes, and more gentle offerings for little ones and the more timid - It is a really fun day out while Joyland, another of the town's great institutions since 1949, also offers plenty of rides and excitement for children, with the legendary snail ride the one that really takes your breath away – we'll say no more!

Overall, there is so much for children to enjoy here – the Sea Life Centre, right on the seafront, has a shark and sea turtle ocean tunnel to walk through plus plenty of hands on activity while Merrivale Model Village, now just over 50 years old, is quite fascinating with mini versions of firemen making a daring rescue from a smoking building, cricketers playing on the village green, and a funfair. Try to find the bank robber, too! Wet weather options include 10-pin bowling, adventure play centres and the Marina Centre with a tropical swimming pool, gym, squash courts and play area. Away from the seafront, Regent Road, Market Gates and the Victoria Arcade are good shopping destinations when you feel in need of some retail therapy while The Courtyard puts an emphasis on locally produced arts and crafts – and you can watch many of the craftsmen and women at work. Be sure to find the family-run Dowrca rock shop, the biggest in the world, and take time out in the Winter Gardens, a lovely place to sit awhile. The town, of course, has a fine maritime heritage and be sure to explore this. A thriving herring fishing industry, employing people from all over the country, grew up around the River Yare and brought great prosperity to the town. Pride of place is the Time and Tide Museum, housed in an original Victorian herring curing works – and there's still a lingering aroma! It tells the story of the town's history from the Ice Age to the

present day. There are gripping tales of wreck and rescue, you can take the steering wheel of a steam drifter, and watch archive films of the town's people and their work – and boy did they have hard lives! This heritage quarter, alongside South Quay, also includes the Elizabeth House which shows how families lived from Tudor to Victorian times and the Tolhouse which dates from the 12th century and was once the town's gaol. Climb the 200-plus steps of Nelson's Moument, a fitting tribute to the county's great naval hero. Guides explain the tower's construction and also about the great man's links with the town while the Nelson Museum has more about his life, especially his Norfolk childhood, through to his famous sea battles and his heroic death. Entertainment in Yarmouth is as exciting as you'd imagine. Back in the 1960s, it was the place for top acts with the likes of Des O Connor, Morecambe and Wise, Tommy Cooper and more household names. The town continues to attract the stars, with the Britannia Pier playing host to the likes of Joe Pasquale and Jim Davidson. And the Victorian Hippodrome run by 1960s pop sensation Peter Jay, stages shows which combine circus acts from around the world, synchronised swimmers and a water spectacle that involves 100,000 gallons of water! Something that you have to see to quite believe – and the Hippodrome itself is pretty special, too!

GORLESTON CLIFF TOP FESTIVAL JULY | HELMSBY HERRING FESTIVAL AUGUST SEPTEMBER FESTIVAL OF BOWLS AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER | GREAT YARMOUTH MARITIME FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER OUT THERE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF STREET ARTS AND CIRCUS SEPTEMBER 26

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Great Yarmouth has numerous nightclubs, bars and a casino so you can have a very lively evening here! And if you're looking for gourmet food, the Imperial Hotel's Cafe Cru is first class as is the Seafood Restaurant which has been going since 1979. The town's horse racing course is a popular spot with meetings from April to October, and there's also regular greyhound races at the town's greyhound stadium.

Something you shouldn't miss doing when you're in this bright and breezy place is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the seafront. They've been running these rides along the Golden Mile since, well, forever, and they're a lovely way to see more of the town without tiring yourself out. Great Yarmouth has several near neighbours that you should try to visit. Gorleston is another lovely family resort, with trampolines, arcades, a boating pool

and plenty of enticing shops and cafes – and the Gorleston Pavilion Theatre stages concerts, plays, muscials and pantos in a year round programme. Hemsby is another popular holiday hotspot, Winterton has lovely beach walks and a great beach cafe and Caister has a lovely beach plus the Caister Castle Car Collection where you can enjoy a moated castle and explore one of the country's largest collections of private cars – including the first ever Ford Fiesta!

T B ESU E L A V HE IN TEA AR

OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from 10.00am

The place to visit THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

NR29 3DR

01493 369477 ☎ www.thrigbyhall.co.uk the best of Norfolk

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Holt Upmarket Holt has first class shops, restaurants and even a steam train or two!

A year round destination With a home-loving community Georgian Holt is Norfolk’s jewel in the crown – a mecca for lovers of fab shopping and gourmet eating! It has a real cosmopolitan air, and attracts many well heeled visitors – the Duchess of Cornwall is said to be a real fan. Holt has become a really desirable destination for a day or even a weekend. Just 10 minutes from the coast and less than an hour from the centre of Norwich, it is not surprising that people come from far and wide. The small market-place is lined with gorgeous shops from the Fortnum & Mason of Norfolk – Bakers and Larners – which is also a major department store and significant garden centre, to bookshops, galleries, food shops and boutiques.

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In the fashion arena, Francois Bouttier, Mrs Brown and Nicholsons are just three of many who are exemplary in understanding the needs of a discerning market among the young as well as older customers. Also well worth a visit is Gun Hill for ontrend separates, Morston Town and Country for good quality country wear and Annie and Boo for really pretty pieces. Antique shops flourish with Anthony Baron at Baron Art, the antiquarian bookshop at Fish Hill, and the Holt Antiques Centre, as well as the well-established Richard Scott for beautiful china. Contemporary interiors shops include the new Moochi Modo which offers sophisticated items from France and Italy

as well as Purdey accessories, and A&J Young Pottery on the High Street offers beautiful handmade pieces by Andy and Jo who have been making pots together since 1975. Even Delia is a fan of their rustic items which range from quirky mugs to practical bowls. Another draw to the town is Picturecraft, a much loved gallery held in great affection locally and by those who always return when in the county to see up to 32 artists exhibiting at any one time. When you get peckish, Byfords is the hot place for everything from a strong morning latte to a tasty supper. And their deli offers many treats including fabulous cakes, cheeses, ready meals and more.

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Butler's Pantry is another favourite eaterie - and make time to explore their kitchenalia shop nextdoor where you'll love all the gadgets and gizmos on offer. Also worthy of a visit is Letheringsett Mill, the last watermill in Norfolk which still produces flour. Lovingly restored, it grinds organic wheat. It is open 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. And Back to the Garden, in the same village, is one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best farm shops, with plenty of organic goodies on the shelves with which to whip up a healthy supper. Holt Festival, held from July 22 - 28 in 2012, is fast becoming a popular event with poets, authors, comedians and theatre companies performing at venues across the town.

At Christmas, the town looks really lovely as all the local shops and businesses make a huge effort to decorate their premises with lights and there's a huge Christmas tree in the Market Place. If you fancy doing some exploring not far from the town centre stands Holt Station â&#x20AC;&#x201C; western terminus of the Poppy Line, a restored steam railway which puffs through some of north Norfolk's most dazzling scenery on its way to Sheringham. Hop out at Weybourne as this station is so picturesque. And Holt Country Park, just a couple of miles from the centre, is a great place to stretch your legs among the Scots Pine. Regular activities take place from guided walks, to children's events and more.

NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY GALA JUNE | HOLT FESTIVAL JULY NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY BEER FESTIVAL JULY the best of Norfolk

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MORSTON town & country

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Morston Town & Country stocks practical clothing with a very stylish and contemporary twist from leading designer brands. Whether out on a bracing walk, shooting or relaxing in the Norfolk countryside you will immediately be at home in our comfortable range of stylish clothes.

REALLY WILD BELSTAFF BARBOUR LIBERTYFREEDOM DUBARRY BARBOUR CHRYSALIS STONES CALVIN KLEIN STETSON Mortson Town & Country Clothing 9 Shirehall Plain, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HT Telephone: 01263 713545 nikola@morstoncontrysports.co.uk

Morston Country Sports has been trading in Holt for twenty years and offers three Floors of fantastic outdoor leisure and sporting goods with a dedicated gun room.

NORTH FACE MUSTO BARBOUR BERGHAUS KEELA REGATTA SEELAND AIGLE HOGGS LEKI BRASHER LE CHAMEAU MEINDL MUCK BOOTS HUNTER PATAGONIA Morston Country Sports 10-12 Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HP Telephone: 01263 713932

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SIX APPLEYARD HAIR SALON Holiday Cottages

We are North Norfolk's leading local holiday cottage agency, based in Burnham Market, offering over 160 of the finest self-catering cottages in coastal North Norfolk. We've established a reputation for letting only the very best cottages, specialising in much-loved second homes, all carefully furnished and equipped to the highest standard, available throughout the year for full weeks or tailor-made short breaks. ESTABLISHED IN 1995 MODERN SALON ON TWO FLOORS SITUATED IN THE HISTORIC GEORGIAN TOWN OF HOLT WELLA MASTER COLOUR EXPERTS WELLA LONDON TREND VISION FINALISTS AVEDA COLOURIST STOCKIST OF THE FULL AVEDA HAIR CARE RANGE ALSO AVEDA SKIN CARE AND THE AVEDA BATH & BODY RANGE EXPERTS IN ALL ASPECTS OF HAIR COLOUR CORRECTION CONSULTANTS

Please call or email us if you'd like some help in finding the perfect place for you, or if you'd like a copy of our 2012 brochure.

Six Appleyard Hair Salon, Appleyard, Holt, NR25 6AR

WE LOVE WHAT WE DO Telephone: 01263 711911

www.sixappleyardholt.co.uk

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T elephone: 01328 730880 Telephone: info@sowerbysholidaycottages.co.uk www .sowerbysholidaycottages.co.uk www.sowerbysholidaycottages.co.uk

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Two floors brimming with an individual and desirable selection of fashion and accessories including bags, scarves, belts, shoes and jewellery. All lovingly chosen from an array of exclusive, exciting designers. Our experienced and friendly staff are well known for understanding and working personally with our customers with in-house style and image advice available too ‘By Appointment’. We are a favourite shopping destination for those in the know and an exciting discovery for those who haven’t yet had the pleasure. ALDO MARTIN – ARIANNA BACKSTAGE – BANDOLERA – BERNSHAW BLANK – BOMBSHELL – BRODIE B YOUNG – CARINA – EMU – ESSENTIEL FENN WRIGHT MANSON – GREAT PLAINS KUDIBAL – JOIN – LUIS CIVIT MAISON SCOTCH – MASAI MOLLY BRACKEN – NICE THINGS NOA NOA – OLSEN – OSKA RONEN CHEN – SAHARA – SANDWICH STILLS – TRAFFIC PEOPLE – RUBY ROCKS Open Monday to Saturday – 10am to 5pm Bank Holidays – 10.30am to 4.30pm 33 High Street | Holt | NR25 6BN Tel: 01263 711230

www.nicholsonsuk.com

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Independent shopping

Looking for something different? Independently run shops are an integral part of Britain's heritage. Known as a 'nation of shopkeepers', our country has a wonderful array of small, independent shops for us to delight in. However, with the increasing strength of multiple retailers and national chains, a high street of independent shops now seems as rare as gold dust. Luckily for us, North Norfolk still has plenty of locally run businesses to tempt shoppers in... High streets across the country can often feel the same: crammed full of corporate giants, nationwide chains and boring, bland shops selling similar things. Although these can offer good money saving ideas, it really is the uniqueness, creativity and character of independent shops that make a shopping experience so special and diverse. Plus, it's not just the contents or the shopkeepers of these small independent shops which should tempt shoppers in: spending in these also help the local economy. Recent studies suggest that not only do independently run businesses create higher paying jobs, but they also reinvest in the local economy at a 60% higher rate than nationwide chains. North Norfolk, with its many small, pretty market towns is a shoppers dream come true – and with thriving independent shops lining the high streets shopping has never felt less guilty.

the best of Norfolk

Popular places such as Swaffham, North Walsham, Aylsham, Downham Market and Attleborough blend tradition with modernity through their bustling markets and their successful and unique local shops. These markets are a long standing tradition (in fact, Attleborough’s market has been running since 1285!) and strongly promote the importance of locally sourced produce. The farmer's market in North Walsham, for example, only sells produce made or grown within 30 miles. Indeed, tasty local food is a common theme running through North Norfolk and there are a variety of delightful delicatessens and food shops dotted around – why not try Samphire in Wymondham, the smoked fish shop in Cley or the butchers in Swaffham? For other shops, the Georgian town Holt is particularly popular, having a range of local businesses which include Butlers Pantry (selling kitchenware), the Pied Piper Shop (for children’s toys) and Something Special (for sewing ideas). Holt is also well known for its collection of galleries, where art-lovers can wonder at the paintings, jewellery, sculptures and ceramics for sale. Bakers and Larners in Holt are worth a further mention. Described as ‘East Anglian’s answer to Fortnum & Mason’

by the Financial Times, this is a unique department store originating back to the 1770s and is still in the founding family's hands today. Stocking many famous brands, with products ranging from garden tools to books and clothes, the store also sells locally produced and organic food in the deli which boasts 700 different products. As well as Holt, Burnham Market has a strong reputation for its eclectic and unique mix of independent shops and has become increasingly popular lately among celebrities. The chic boutiques and jewellers are perfect for those wanting exclusive and elegant pieces that no-one else will be wearing. Two other shops in North Norfolk perhaps worth noting are Cat Pottery in North Walsham – a shop selling hand crafted cat pottery perfect for all cat lovers – and Big Blue Sky – an interiors shop near Wells-next-the-Sea, which won an award in last year’s Telegraph Magazine Shop Awards. These pretty towns and villages pride themselves on the quality of their independent shops and take great pleasure in providing excellent service for all their visitors. So, go on...why not treat yourself to something different and help the local economy too?

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Hunstanton The affectionate nickname of Sunny Hunny sums up this well-loved West Norfolk seaside town

Sunny Hunny

A family-friendly seaside town If you have meandered along the north Norfolk coast you will have observed its wonderful variety, from cliffs to creeks, sand to shingle, and this is exemplified by Hunstanton which has a character all of its own. Distinguished by its dramatic striped cliffs, with their three layers of red and white lime and rust brown sandstone, you will observe that many of the houses in the area are similarly rusty coloured. The history of the area is an ancient one and a short trip along the coast takes the visitor to Holme-next-the-Sea where the incredible 4000-year-old Seahenge was discovered, and where the coast path meets the prehistoric Peddars Way cutting through the fields.

Also nearby is Caley Mill at Heacham, home of the famous Norfolk Lavender, whose fields in season make a truly spellbinding spectacle, and from which a wide range of lavender products can be purchased. Lavender scones from their tea shop come highly recommended. Another distinct feature of Hunstanton is its climate: it really is sunny as the locals would have it, one of the driest places in the country and facing west so that the sunsets here are especially beautiful to observe. Formerly an elegant seaside resort that even brought Royalty to the town – Edward V11 was a visitor – there are plenty of fun and games for today’s visitors to enjoy.

There is an annual lawn tennis week in August which has been running since the 1920’s, a big funfair, a road train and sea buggy for trips across the sands. The Sea Life Sanctuary, which children will love where they can see otters, seals and sharks among other species, and walk along the cliff tops to Old Hunstanton, with its iconic beach huts nestling in sand dunes and challenging golf course, gives you great views across the Wash. The Neptune restaurant here is one of the best in the county. It is small and intimate with chef patron Kevin Mangeolles on great form. The town is also the starting point for the Norfolk Coastal Path which runs all the way to Cromer, some 40-odd miles away. Best foot forward, please!

HUNSTANTON CARNIVAL JUNE | HUNSTANTON DANCE FESTIVAL JUNE HUNSTANTON LIFESTYLES EXTREME SPORTS & CULTURE FESTIVAL JULY NORFOLK LAVENDER FESTIVAL JULY | OLD HUNSTANTON FLOWER FESTIVAL JULY HEACHAM CARNIVAL AUGUST | HUNSTANTON KITE FESTIVAL AUGUST CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM AT HUNSTANTON 11AM 36

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Houghton Hall KING’S LYNN

oughton Hall, the hidden jewel of north-west Norfolk, is one of the finest Palladian Houses in this country. Built by Sir Robert Walpole in the 1720s, the superbly designed building with its lavish furnishings of the staterooms, designed by William Kent, reflect Walpole’s status as Britain’s first Prime Minister. Visitors can step back in time and enjoy Houghton much as it would have been in Walpole’s day. The Hall is surrounded by parkland, home to a herd of white fallow and exotic deer. In May the park is the setting for the Subaru Houghton International Horse Trials. Contemporary Sculptures in the gardens include works by James Turrell – Skyspace 2006; Richard Long’s Full Moon Circle; Stephen Cox has two different sculptures on view – Interior Space in the woods, and Flask II in the south loggia; Anya Gallaccio has designed The Sybil Hedge based on the signature of the late Lady Cholmondeley, who lived

at Houghton for 60 years; the latest installation is by Zhang Wang entitled Scholar Rock 85. The Stable Square houses The Model Soldier Collection, one of the finest and largest private collections in the world, with 20,000 models displayed in the various famous battle formations. The Restaurant, provides morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. A well-stocked Gift Shop. The Stable building reflects the elegant age of riding and coach-horses. The award-winning five-acre Walled Garden, is laid out into ‘garden rooms’ divided by trimmed yew hedges. A stunning 120-yard double herbaceous border runs through the centre of the garden. The Rose Parterre, with more than 150 varieties of English roses, kitchen garden, fountains, including Waterflame by Jeppe Hein, statues, glasshouse and rustic temple, make a visit to this garden a most relaxing and enjoyable experience.

DIAMOND JUBILEE EXHIBITION OF HISTORIC UNIFORMS FROM THE CORONATIONS OF WILLIAM IV, GEORGE IV AND QUEEN ELISABETH II NAPOLEONIC RE-ENACTMENT AND LIVING HISTORY IN THE PARK 8-9 April THE SUBARU HOUGHTON INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS 24-27 May | GLADE FESTIVAL 14-17 June WYNDSTOCK – SUMMER BALL 30 June-1 July | WYNDSTOCK BANK HOLIDAY PARTY WEEKEND 25-27 August

Houghton Hall, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6UE. Tel: 01485 528569 Email: info@houghtonhall.com www.houghtonhall.com Open Easter Sunday 8th April – 27th September. Wednesdays, Thursday, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays. 11.30am - 5.30pm. House Open 1.30 - 5.00pm. (last admission 4.30pm). Adult: £10. Child (5-16yrs): £3.50. Family (2+3): £24. Everything but the House: Adult: £7. Child (5-16 yrs): £2.50. Family (2+3): £20. (Party discount for groups 20+).

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BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BEER SHOP

Beers of Europe Ltd is a family company created from scratch with no preconceived ideas or knowledge about the brewing industry, just a passion for something different. The original spark of an idea for a specialist beer shop came from years of travelling throughout Europe and beyond and experiencing the truly distinctive and different range of beers available compared with here. We had a corner of a very large warehouse available and built within it a purpose-built 5,000 sq ft shop which now contains more than 1,700 different beers from all over the world and a warehouse behind for bulk stock. We also stock around 1,000 malt whiskies, unusual spirits and liqueurs, plus branded glasses and gift packs.

Our specialities are first of all, more than 500 ales, stouts and porters from the UK’s finest brewers, both large and small, from filtered crystal-clear offerings to living bottle-conditioned beers. Next is the 450-strong Belgian range with an absolutely incredible variety of styles and tastes, many of which are produced by monasteries and abbeys.

The brews produced by monks are known as trappist beers. Belgian beer tends to be strong with alcohol content ranging up to 12% by volume. Belgium also produces a huge range of fruit beers, the most popular being kriek (cherry) and framboise (raspberry) some of these are ‘champagne’ like in corked and wired bottles. Then there are around 200 German beers, which are still produced to the Reinheitsgebot beer purity laws of 1516 which allow only water, malt, hops and yeast to go in the beer. Finally, a truly international selection from 65 countries ranging from Argentina to Zimbabwe. We have a full online ordering service with next-working-day delivery and the shop is open seven days a week for personal callers.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.00am – 6.00pm. Sundays and bank holidays 10.00am – 4.00pm. Garage Lane, Setchey, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 0BE. Tel: 01553 812000 Fax: 01553 813419 sales@beersofeurope.co.uk www.beersofeurope.co.uk

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King’s Lynn The medieval architecture of King’s Lynn will delight, just as Sandringham holds a special place in the hearts of the Royal Family

A port with plenty Rich in history, myth and legend Juxtaposed with its bustling docks and notable market-places in the centre of the town, the ancient part around the quays makes an excellent starting point for exploring King’s Lynn. The town in a former age, until 1537, was actually known as Bishops Lynn, and to trace its history, visit a series of rooms at the Town House Museum which gives you the chance to step back in time and see the domestic life of Lynn residents from medieval times through to the 1950s. Even more so perhaps at Tales of the Old Gaol House where stories abound of witches, murderers and highwaymen – and in fact King’s Lynn is on the borders of the Fens and the Wash where legend thrives and mysterious hauntings are still believed to take place. To experience this fully the keen walker will be longing to set out on the Fen Rivers Way, a 50-mile path running all the way to Cambridge, tracing the course of the rivers draining across the Fens into the Wash.

King’s Lynn is on the edge of the territory which probably caused Noel Coward disdainfully to proclaim ‘Very flat, Norfolk!’ but he misses the point: the fenlands over in West Norfolk and into Cambridgeshire with their dykes and vast black fields of rich soil are some of the most atmospheric places in England, rich in myth and legend. To guide you on your way around the town, call in at The Custom House where there is an excellent Tourist Information Centre, which houses an exhibition of the maritime history of the port. And if you are a market lover you can combine a feast of architectural gems with a visit to the Tuesday Market Place, one of England’s grandest squares. For two weeks every February it pulsates with the sounds of screams and loud, loud music as the annual Mart takes place – a funfair plus all the trimmings! The King’s Lynn Arts Centre and Corn Exchange both offer a great repertoire of performances ranging from classical

music to stand up comedy and the July King’s Lynn Festival is one of the highlights of a town bursting with cultural events. Staying at or visiting King’s Lynn gives you easy access to splendid Sandringham, the Queen’s Norfolk home. Beautiful grounds to stroll in, gracious parklands and gardens, a firstrate gift shop and a range of vintage and historic cars are some of the attractions. The annual Sandringham Flower Show, held every July, was a real favourite with the Queen Mother and now Prince Charles is a regular visitor. You cannot help but spot the ruins of a Norman castle at Castle Rising, just a few miles from King’s Lynn. It seems to call you and is worth a quick detour. And the villages of Dersingham and Snettisham are charming – Snettisham has another fine RSPB reserve which is at its best in the winter when high tides force thousands of waders up onto the shoreline.

KING'S LYNN FESTIVAL JULY | FESTIVAL TOO, KING'S LYNN JULY WORLD SNAIL RACING CHAMPIONSHIPS, CONGHAM JULY | SANDRINGHAM FLOWER FESTIVAL JULY SANDRINGHAM CRAFT AND FOOD FESTIVAL AUGUST | SANDRINGHAM GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR AUGUST KING'S LYNN POETRY FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER the best of Norfolk

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The The Dining Dining Rooms Ro oms at Norwich

For a truly special and unique dining experience in Norwich, look no further than The Dining Rooms at Cinema City. Housed in glorious vaulted rooms, formerly a buttery, and a smaller Georgian panelled room, The Dining Rooms offer fabulous Ă la carte dishes and delicious informal alternatives to the Bar menu. Our menu boasts a wealth of seasonal produce from independent local suppliers and offers classic British dishes with an international influence, all prepared and cooked with skill, care and simplicity. Come and enjoy excellent cooking and service in our beautiful surroundings. In addition to The Dining Rooms and The Bar, Cinema City has seating in a beautiful covered medieval courtyard and on a terrace at the front of the building.

Booking and Enquiries: 07504 356378

www.norwichdiningrooms.co.uk

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My Norwich by Caroline Jarrold

Whenever I walk around Norwich, I am struck by how ‘walkable’ the city centre is and the number of delightful routes through it. Interesting buildings and streets survive from all eras of the past thousand years reflecting Norwich’s historic significance. Landmark buildings such as The Forum, opposite St Peter Mancroft church, The Refectory and The Hostry at Norwich Cathedral, all designed by Sir Michael Hopkins, and, on the edge of the city at the university, the Sainsbury Centre, designed by Lord Foster, have been constructed in the past 30 years and continue to add to the rich tapestry. Heritage Open Days in early September each year give a fascinating opportunity to explore and understand the history of the city. In recent years new pedestrian bridges have also been built across the river enabling visitors to explore different aspects of the city. The most recent, the Jarrold Bridge near to the Adam & Eve pub, was opened in December 2011.

Culturally there is also much to enjoy, including many different types of performances and exhibitions throughout the year. A highlight of international significance is the Norfolk & Norwich Festival, which takes place in May, bringing world-quality cultural activities to a variety of venues as well as to the streets of Norwich and Norfolk. Throughout the year, the Theatre Royal has an outstanding programme of drama, shows, opera and music. There is always something to see or do whether professional or amateur – the problem is finding the time to do everything! Norwich is increasingly popular as a place to shop and enjoy food. The number of good restaurants has increased over the past few years, whether you want a quick bite before going to the theatre or a more relaxed lunch or dinner. The Norfolk Food Festival, which takes place in the autumn, is a great showcase for the local food offering. The shopping temptations

are many. The centre is flanked by two large shopping malls, but what continues to make Norwich different is its wide variety of independent shops, the largest being Jarrolds department store, on the corner of the Market Place, which has been in Norwich since 1823. Many independent shops are situated in the lanes and alleys around the city centre and these and the six-day, open-air market are all well worth exploring.

Caroline Jarrold

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Norwich

One of the best medieval cities in Europe The fact that at one time Norwich boasted a pub for every day of the year and a church for every week, gives you some idea of the city’s character. They may not number as many these days, but it still does both rather well, from its two cathedrals to its many thriving yet ancient pubs. Norwich has a fascinating and sometimes tumultuous history and this is evident everywhere from the fascinating Norman Castle, standing proud over the city, to the perfectlypreserved medieval cobbled street of Elm Hill. The city grew out of various Saxon settlements along the Wensum river and in the Middle Ages was second only to London in its importance as a trading post. History is richly textured from the city’s great weaving supremacy and church-building resulting from its prosperity, through the great rebellion led by Wymondham farmer Robert Kett, and into the 16th century when ‘strangers’,

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weavers from the Netherlands, came to Norwich. They also introduced canarybreeding and the emblem is synonymous with Norwich City Football Club. Today Norwich remains one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe but it is also a top-ten shopping destination with plenty to see and do. Tour the castle’s museum for a ride in a chariot similar to one used by East Anglia’s own Queen Boadicea and be spooked by the dungeons and centuriesold death-masks from public executions. Relax with a boat ride on the Wensum (around the city or head out to the Broads), or visit one of the 32 medieval churches, some of which have been put to new uses as art galleries and exciting new venues, hosting exhibitions, vintage fairs and even fashion shows. Other attractions include Strangers’ Hall, a magnificent Tudor House; Dragon Hall, a medieval trading complex and the Plantation Garden, a secret late Victorian town garden.

The words that greet the visitor to ‘Norwich: A Fine City’, are the perfect embodiment of what the city has to offer, stating the case exactly as it is: a fine history, a fine culture, a fine future and the city thrives today just as it has throughout the centuries. There are activities, shops, events and facilities for everyone of every age. Although there is no longer a pub for every day of the week, there are plenty of pubs remaining and the city celebrates them every year with a City of Ale festival in June. Visit Norwich’s oldest pub, the tiny Adam and Eve, or one of the newer additions, the real ale specialist and multi-award winner, the Fat Cat. The diversity within this fascinating city is astonishing, and past and present contrive to blend seamlessly in its many streets and lanes. Modern buildings such as the acclaimed Millennium Forum sit cheek by jowl with medieval church towers, while the regenerated market is as flourishing and bustling as ever.

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Norwich The sign welcomes you to ‘Norwich – a Fine City’, and indeed it is possibly one of the loveliest in the country

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Winsor Bishop

the new generation

Patek Philippe Officer’s Case Calatrava Ref. 5153G in white gold, with black alligator strap. £25,030

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Patek Philippe Ladies Calatrava Ref. 7119/1J in 18K yellow gold. £26,170

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Nautilus Ref. 5726A in stainless steel, with black alligator strap. £28,550

Patek Philippe Ladies Nautilus Ref. 7008/1A in stainless steel, with silvered dial surrounded by 50 flawless diamonds. £22,570

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Winsor Bishop was established in 1834 and has been situated at its present site for over 170 years.

The business was known as Pegler Brothers until 1893 when Mr Richard Winsor Bishop bought it. A copy of the valuation certificate indicates that the premises consisted of a shop and an excellent residence with a value for the unexpired term of the lease of £150. Winsor Bishop is the quintessential jewellers shop and each generation of owners has strived and succeeded in making it the leading independent jewellers in the region. The present shape and style of the shop with its late Victorian mahogany showcases and counters had changed little since 1893, although a new watch sales area was developed at the back of the shop by the late owner Robert Croydon, just a few years ago. 2011 saw an exciting period of growth Winsor Bishop, with ownership of the business passing to Robert’s two daughters, Sophie & Tanya. The shop extended from number 41-43 in to neighbouring number 39. This development allowed a 1st floor gallery to be opened and house many more fashion brands as well as our expanded service department.

Enter through number 39’s entrance and you will see dedicated salons to many of our watch brands including an exhibition space for new brands or promotions. Expansion of the store meant expansion for the team too, growing to a 31-strong staff, who between them now speaks eight different languages. With all the top watch and jewellery brands (many of them exclusive to Norfolk), Winsor Bishop is has many long standing partnerships including Patek Philippe. Patek Philippe watches are symbols of discernment and exclusivity, representing a lifelong statement of excellence and refinement. No other watch lends better expression to the true Patek Philippe style than the Calatrava. Created in 1932, this signature model showcases sleek lines and subtle elegance and is distinguished by a round case with a dial that displays the time in the most simplest way. Whether extra thin with hobnail pattern or wide polished bezels, the Calatrava design is always unmistakably classic, yet inherently contemporary.

The endearing quality of the Calatrava design reflects the relentless pursuit of perfection that has always been at the core of Patek Philippe's mission. A little revolution took place in Geneva in 1976, the launch of the Nautilus; a luxury watch in a steel case. At a time when the world of horology was competing for thinner watches, Patek Philippe introduced an oversized watch with an extravagant shape. The casual elegance of this ground breaking model inspired an instant cult following, which still exists today. Patek Philippe recently extended the range introducing a number of new Nautilus models for men and women, including the first set of stainless steel ladies Nautilus models with an automatic movement. In fact many of the new ladies models presented by Patek Philippe more recently have included mechanical movements, as increasingly women, as well as men, are interested by the beauty and workmanship of what is housed inside, often revealed through the sapphirecrystal case back.

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Shop, meet, dine, enjoy...

Have a field day at Chapelfield Chapelfield is one of the largest shopping centres in the East of England. Since opening in 2005 the centre has attracted over 50 million visitors. It is a place to Shop, meet, dine, enjoy... As well as a great fashion offering; here you’ll find much-loved names like House of Fraser; Apple Store; Disney Store and Pandora, which have chosen Chapelfield as home to their only stores in Norfolk. With over 90 fantastic shops, cafes and restaurants, including many that are unique to the region, Chapelfield has played a part in helping to cement Norwich’s position as one of the top 10 shopping destinations in the UK. Recent store openings have included: a dedicated H&M childrenswear store; one of Sweden’s best known brands Clas Ohlson; plus stylish fashion labels Hollister Co. and Superdry.

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New restaurant openings include Italian food specialists Carluccio’s; YO! Sushi and ASK Italian; complementing an already impressive range of dining choices at Chapelfield. From a quick mid-shopping snack; to take-away lunches and special restaurant meals; make Chapelfield your first stop for foodie inspiration. Chapelfield is also conveniently close to Norwich Theatre Royal, making this a perfect before or after show dinner location. More than shopping and great food... Chapelfield hosts family friendly entertainment throughout the year. Annual highlights include the spring fashion show; plus half term and summer activities for kids: like craft making, puppet shows, games and competitions. Additionally, in 2012, look out for special events happening to

celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and all things ‘Best of British’ during the summer months. Located in the heart of the city, Chapelfield is a short walk from Norwich bus station, accessible for Park & Ride visitors; three bicycle parking areas are available; and Chapelfield is a 20 minute walk from the train station. For those travelling by car, a 1000 space car park located underneath the shopping centre opens from 8am each day; with a flat rate of £2 after 3pm every day.

For more information about Chapelfield, including special events happening at the shopping centre, visit: www.chapelfield.co.uk

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Have a field day

...with over 90 fantastic shops, cafés and restaurants in our stunning shopping centre, nestled in the heart of Norwich. Enjoy your high street favourites as well as exclusive names like Apple, Superdry, Hollister and the only House of Fraser in the region.

If you’re all shopped out, then enjoy one of our many fantastic dining experiences with restaurants like ASK Italian, Carluccio’s and YO! Sushi - your taste buds will have a field day too! www.chapelfield.co.uk

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The ﬁnest shopping in Norwich Since 1823 Widely regarded as the flagship department store in Norwich, Jarrold is proud to be one of the most recognisable landmarks in this unique city, which has been home to our family-run business since 1823. Today the store offers a unique and contemporary shopping experience over five floors, with more than 50 departments offering a stunning choice of products, including many individual and exclusive ranges. Those in need of refreshment are well catered for too, with a choice of three restaurants and the basement Deli. Our womenswear fashion floor offers a unique boutique-style experience with an exciting mix of well-known, established brands alongside fresh new labels, many of which are exclusive to us in the area. A complimentary Personal Shopper service is available to help make choosing a special outfit or updating your look a fun and stress-free experience, and is a great way to make the most of your looks and budget.

There are lots of colourful and funky looks to delight all junior followers of fashion in our third floor childrenswear department, while on the ground floor our menswear collections range from young urban wear through to traditional tailoring. The ground floor is also home to our beauty and perfumery hall – truly a pampering heaven! Here you will find a stunning selection of beauty, bath and skincare products from top beauty houses and exclusive iconic brands. Our SKINspa includes an exciting range of natural, organic and ethically manufactured skin and bodycare products while a stop-off at our NAILspa will give a perfectly-polished look from a range of luxurious treatments. The addition of our BROWspa has proved extremely popular, with the ancient art of threading revealing the secret of perfectly-groomed eyebrows. If your home is also in need of some pampering, our new-look furniture floor is full of inspiring ideas. Here contemporary chic

meets traditional style with an inspiring range of furniture for every room of the house. Carpets, rugs, curtains and linens help complete the look, while our fabulous collection of accessories, ranging from opulent mirrors through to statement piece lamps and colourful cushions, add the all-important finishing touches. Elsewhere in store you will find numerous other departments, including cookware, china, gifts, luggage, accessories, shoes, stationery, computers, toys and haberdashery. Our awardwinning book department is regarded as the independent bookseller in the city and often holds exciting and unusual events featuring many well-known names. A diverse range of interests is covered from cookery to the classics, politics to poetry, fashion to food and much more! A visit to Norwich would not be complete without a visit to Jarrold – almost 200 years on, still an essential part of this very fine city.

London Street | Norwich | 01603 660661 | www.jarrold.co.uk

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2012 EVENTS Here are the main scheduled events taking place in Norwich and surrounding areas:

Spring International Literary Festival University of East Anglia. January – May Norwich Fashion Week Norwich. 8 – 15 March The East Anglian Game & Country Fair Norfolk Showground. 28 – 29 April Norwich really is a city of yesterday, today and tomorrow. From the earliest Saxon and Norman inhabitants to the young students of today from the University of East Anglia, many have chosen to make this place home and it still draws visitors from all over the world. You may have arrived by train into the superbly-restored railway station, so perhaps you will walk along the river or over the bridge into the centre. The Forum is a good place to lay plans for exploring the city, whether you choose a guided tour or to make your own discoveries just by wandering through its lanes and arcades. Although the scale of the place is friendly to the foot, it is worth remembering that, having experienced rapid expansion from the original Saxon settlement, Norwich was once the largest walled town in England, and fragments of the original city wall can still be seen. Shopping in Norwich is varied and excellent, constantly widening in its range, particularly since the Chapelfield development opened with many bigname shops and a good variety of new cafés and restaurants as well as an expansive underground car park. Great pleasure can be derived from walking around the shopping areas of Gentlemen’s Walk, Castle Meadow, ,Timber Hill, the sensational Art Nouveau Royal Arcade and the historic Norwich Lanes; a vibrant area of the city with a whole array of independent shops. The walk along London Street leads you from Norwich Lanes to Queen Street and on into Tombland in Norwich’s Cathedral Quarter where there are a number of great cafés and restaurants. This beautiful part of the city is full of historic buildings, diverse cultural activity and a continental atmosphere

and has been widely used as a film and TV location. Make sure you make time to visit cobbled Elm Hill, one of the prettiest streets in the city, its steep road leading the eye from one enticing shop to the next. Then head back into Tombland and across to the tranquility and beauty of Cathedral Close where many of its buildings are part of King Edward V1 School, whose choristers sing in the cathedral. As you explore you will stumble upon one historic structure after another: the famously beautiful Pulls Ferry on the riverside, Cow Tower on another bend of the river, a defensive tower dating from the 13th century, or Bishops Bridge, the oldest in Norwich. The river informs the whole history of the city and there are some beautiful new developments lining its banks today, while Riverside just across the road from the railway station, is a centre of cinema, bowling, clubs and restaurants. From here and various points along the river trips can be taken out to the Norfolk Broads or just around the city. You will also observe how many interesting museums and galleries there are in the city, and its cultural life is abundant all year round. There is a great diversity of theatres and cinemas, most celebrated of which is the Theatre Royal while the Norwich Playhouse and The Maddermarket are also thriving. In May, the Norfolk and Norwich Festival brings performers from all over the world and is not to be missed. For more information please contact the Tourist Information Centre 01603 213999 tic@visitnorwich.co.uk or visit www.visitnorwich.co.uk

The Broads Outdoor Festival Whitlingham Broad and other Broads venues (Norfolk). 5 – 20 May Norfolk & Norwich Festival Norwich and Norfolk. 11 – 26 May Norfolk Open Studios Over 200 local artists open their studios. 26 May – 10 June City of Ale Festival around Norwich. 31 May – 10 June Norwich Cathedral Flower Festival, 60 Years of Norfolk Norwich Cathedral, Norwich A celebration of flowers and their significant impact on the country of Norfolk since Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne. Norwich Cathedral boasts England’s largest monastic cloisters and second tallest spire. Weekend events include a concert and a ‘market’ in the cloisters. 1 – 4 June The Olympic Torch Relay in Norwich The torch will be carried by 8,000 inspirational people around the country who will have been nominated as an Olympic Torchbearer because of their ability to inspire. On the evening of Wednesday 4th July the Torch arrives in Norwich – come and join the outdoor celebrations. More to follow. 4 July The 2012 Norfolk Polo Festival The Norfolk Polo Club's premier tournament will be held in the grounds of the Langley Abbey Estate. Polo teams from across the UK will be taking part, with in excess of 2000 spectators across the weekend, keen to learn more about the sport, and 120 ponies. 7 – 8 July Shakespeare Festival Norwich Cathedral Watch The Tempest and/or The Taming of the Shrew in the spectacular surroundings of Norwich Cathedral. www.cathedral.org.uk 11 – 14 July Heritage Open Days 6 – 9 September Norfolk Food Festival September

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Located next to Norwich Castle, The Mall has five floors of great shopping, ample parking and an eight screen cinema.

Find big name brands such as TK Maxx, New Look, Boots, Jane Norman and La Senza, with men’s fashion from Blue Inc, Madhouse and Esquire. There is also a wide variety of independent stores like The Tea Junction, and The Java Store. Children will be spoilt for choice with the Early Learning Centre, Mothercare and Hawkin’s Bazaar. For evening entertainment take the family to watch the latest film at Vue Cinema with free parking for up to 4 hours. Why not take a break from shopping and stop off at The Mall Kitchen, BB’s or Starbucks for a bite to eat or if you are in a hurry try some of the takeaway food outlets like Auntie Anne’s Pretzels or Subway. Services also include Bedlam’s Soft Play area for young children, Shopmobility, which hires out mobility vehicles, a Post Office and NHS Walk-in-Centre. The Mall is open every day with late night shopping on a Thursday until 8pm and free parking after 5pm. Parking is easy with two car parks totalling 800 spaces, the main car park is located at the top of Rose lane and our small car park on Farmer’s Avenue. Park after 6pm at The Mall any night (excluding Thursday) and pay £1.50 all evening allowing you to enjoy Norwich’s wonderful selection of restaurants and night life. Our main entrance on White Lion Street is a few minutes walk from the bus station and our Cattle Market entrance is only 15 minutes walk from the train station. You will find everything you need for a great shopping experience at The Mall Norwich.

the best of Norfolk

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themall.co.uk

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Opening hours Monday - Wednesday 9am - 5.30pm Thursday 9am - 8pm Friday 9am - 5.30pm Saturday 9am - 6pm Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm

The Mall Norwich, next to Norwich Castle. Tel 01603 766430.

shopping as it should be

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Norwich Fashion

Norwich is placed firmly on the map as a retail destination and it is not difficult to see why. Not only does it have two shopping malls – Chapelfield and The Mall – and all the familiar high street names, it also has a vast range of independent retailers who bring a creative edge to the Norwich Fashion offer.

More important, they give the shopper variety and choice. Men’s fashion is extremely well catered for with the award-winning Philip Browne, who has been selling designer menswear in Norwich for 25 years, Elements, Dogfish and, more recently, Seven Wolves. Norwich also has a thriving shops scene for lovers of vintage with Prim Vintage, Antidote and Goldfinches among them and hairdressers offering styles from decades past. If you are into the rock scene, The Rock Collection sells Gothic and alternative clothes. Streetwear is also well represented. There are even shops dedicated to ethical clothing made from natural fabrics. Women will not be disappointed by boutiques such as Walkers, Catfish and Pure. And there are many shops selling an array of accessories. Most independent fashion retailers are based in the wonderfully eclectic Norwich Lanes but you will also find them in the Royal Arcade, in Timberhill, Elm Hill, Tombland and on the outskirts of the city, such as Vanilla on Ipswich Road.

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Norwich also has many up-and-coming designers – such as Poppy Valentine, who makes new clothes from vintage fabrics, and Monkey Mash, who designs 40s and 50s-inspired clothes, and Love Couture. If affordable designer wear is what you are after, head to Ego in Chapelfield, Norwich’s buy-and-sell boutique. Norwich FashioN week Thursday, March 8 – Thursday, March 15 This buzzing fashion scene has led to the emergence of the third Norwich Fashion Week – a celebration of the city’s rich creative scene. Supported by retailers, local fashion academies and skilled industry professionals, Norwich Fashion Week is dedicated to showcasing next season’s trends, designers of the future, inspirational style and must-have buys, which can be found nestled in and around the city. The events programme is packed with vintage tea parties, up-andcoming local designers, The Norwich Lanes Fashion Night Out and Ego’s

fashion auction, selling coveted secondhand designer and quality brand pieces, lovingly bestowed to the cause, and the flagship Independent Fashion Show. The provisional itinerary for the week: Thursday, March 8 Norwich Fashion week launch independent retailers show At: Fusion at The Forum. Times: Preview show for friends, family, NFW guests and press 6pm. Tickets £6. Main show 7.30pm for 8pm start. Tickets £12 (includes drink on arrival). Friday, March 9 Norwich Lanes Fashion Night out At: Norwich Lanes. Time: 6pm until 9pm. Co-ordinated schedule of events and shows in Norwich Lanes, including fashion shows, art exhibitions and shopping. Made-in-Norwich fashion market at St Gregory’s Church and special goody bags available with purchases.

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sunday, March 11 ‘Dress like a Queen’ vintage day At: The Library Restaurant on Guildhall Hill, in conjunction with Blue Skies Vintage Events and sponsored by Moutard champagne. Time: 11am until 4pm. Tickets: £10 (includes a goody bag and a glass of champagne on arrival). Tickets available soon from The Library Restaurant. Vintage fashion shows, vintage fair, make-up demonstrations by Benefit London, hair demonstrations by Hooloovoo. Brunch and tea menu. Tuesday, March 13 The Designers show At: Project Nightclub. Time: 2pm and 7pm. Tickets: £10 adults and £5 under-18s. Tickets available soon. Takes place at Project Nightclub, on Riverside, with two shows. Designers confirmed are Poppy Valentine, Monkey Mash, Jane Kenning, Peggy’s Collection, Marilyn Thomas, Alice Bodgener and Marian Eve Williams. City College

Norwich textile and fashion students will also be showcasing their new collection – Cocoon. The shows will be followed by a pop-up shop giving you the chance to buy the latest locally produced fashion. Designers include Annette Rolston, Elizabeth Radford, Lisa Bliss, Jemima Pine, Mamphii and Jane Pennington. wednesday, March 14 cinema city and Vintage Norwich presents ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ At: Cinema City. Time: Film starts at 8.30pm. Tickets: £8.50 or £6.50 for Cinema City members and concessions. On sale now, call 08719025724, or visit www.picturehouses.co.uk Dress to impress in black tie and diamonds for this celebrated musical comedy, starring Marilyn’s Monroe’s archetypal dumb blonde and Jane Russell’s showgirl – decamping to Paris to ensnare rich husbands, with a classic soundtrack including ‘Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend’.

Enjoy a glamorous glass of fizz, browse our 50s memorabilia and enjoy our vintage tunes. Exclusive Vintage Norwich goodie bag and Cinema City membership for the best-dressed visitor. Thursday, March 15 ego auction At: The Library Restaurant, Guildhall Hill. Time: Midday – auction starts at 1.15pm. Tickets: £12 available soon. Enjoy a two-course lunch at The Library Restaurant before battling it out to bag those designer pieces in a fashion auction, organised by Ego.

Keep in touch with the event on twitter. https://twitter.com/#!/NorwichFashion

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Walkers CREATIVE CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES

Established more than twenty years ago and world renowned for stocking the most interesting and creative labels, Walkers invite you to come along to their new three storey shop, set in the heart of Norwich Lanes. Instrumental in bringing some amazing new designers into Great Britain, owner Anne Rowe continues to search out all corners of Europe to bring new and as yet unknown labels to the fore. With a mission to bring friendliness to designer stores, Walkers offers a relaxed, yet attentive place to shop. Walkers styling is distinct, and our customers enjoy being ahead of the game, but at the same time, individual pieces have a long shelf life and can always be combined with new styles as each new season evolves. In addition to many designer clothing collections, we apply the same sense of individuality to our accessories, and stock wonderful handmade jewellery from Spanish label Uno de 50, plus many other contemporary collections, including Zandra Rhodes and Adele Marie. Our staff are knowledgeable fashion enthusiasts, and often even fashion graduates, with an eye for colour and proportion; and as we cater for all sizes (8 to 20 plus), great and small, knowing our stock is of key importance. All ages are welcome, as Walkers fashion is more to do with ones personality type than ones age! The new store came about after Walkers had outgrown the old premises, and with lots of space, comes restful chilling areas for partners and friends to relax whilst they wait, and complimentary refreshments are always available! Our year runs very smoothly with the spring collections commencing 1st February, until the summer sale commences on July 1st. From August 1st, comes the autumn collections, which continue through to the winter sale commencing on 27th December. The online shop stocks every single item that is available in store, and we ship for next day delivery in the UK and of course we ship worldwide too... log onto www.walkersofpottergate.com Our website tries to replicate the happy and relaxed atmosphere of the shop... and Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blog will keep you entertained and informed. Nothing can beat the excitement of shopping at Walkers in person where you can see and feel all the incredible pieces for yourself. So next time you are visiting the City, come along and join us!

Walkers Creative Clothes and Accessories 6 Upper Goat Lane Norwich NR2 1EW. 01603 618718 www.walkersofpottergate.com 54

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the best of Norfolk

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Sartorial Style Glance beyond the striking Vivienne Westwood vintage-tees-as-art framed around Philip Browne Menswear and the contradictions begin to emerge everywhere. Take, for example, the quintessentially English outfitter Barbour, whose capsule collection blends country pursuit functionality with the motorcycle -mad flair of American film legend Steve McQueen. Elsewhere in the shop, outlandish neon Adidas trainers sidle up to classic brogues by Grenson, “England’s master shoemakers since 1866.” Sure, style outliers like Westwood and Alexander McQueen go together like toast and tea. But showcase them next to the understated traditional looks of Canada Goose or Woolrich and it threatens to be Marmite and honey – might work, but it could go horribly wrong. Yet at Philip Browne, seemingly clashing tastes fuse into wry, quirky combinations that continue to win the hearts of men’s fashion aficionados from Norfolk to New York, more than 25 years after rocking up on Norwich’s Guildhall Hill. The beer and shots don’t hurt, either – but more of that in a bit. And the contrasts aren’t just limited to the clothing, shoes and accessories. By couture standards, Norwich was once the end of the Earth; likewise, the pioneering shop’s longevity belies the usually fickle tastes of shoppers. After a quarter of a century of avant-garde style

and (sometimes unruly) antics, however, Philip Browne has helped put Norfolk on the map as a shopping destination. Despite its forward-thinking approach to menswear, the shop stayed firmly in the bricks-and-mortar territory until 2010, when it dived headlong into social media and created a comprehensive online shop. The online presence is drawing new interest, not least because Philip Browne has one of the only capsule collections by top Japanese designer Tokihito Yoshida, for Barbour. The knits, shirts and jackets draw on Barbour’s military and sporting history, adding an unmistakably modern twist. In addition to its ever-changing product range, the website invites visitors to be part of Philip Browne’s bonhomie through the kind of cheeky, wink-nudge updates that customers expect from its outstanding sales staff. While the days of impromptu music gigs are a thing of the past, regular customers know they can still count on Philip Browne to break out the Guinness or Bailey’s Irish Cream. Philip Browne’s own story offers clues to his shop’s success. Once a gritty oil well engineer who embraced the “work hard, play hard” mantra of his job, Browne headed home to Norfolk after a decade of world travel. Influences from Asia, the

Middle East, Africa, America and Europe fed an interest in clothing, and Philip Browne Menswear was born. There was no formal training, he said, and he puts his innovative vision down to “instinct and risk.” “If you take the best of what people do from all countries, you get a kaleidoscope that really works,” Browne said. “Each product has its own story, and that puts us a cut above the high street.” In the early days, the shop was dominated by French, then Italian, designers. Most recently, though, Browne said it’s all about the English heritage product, with the “fantastic, practical, goodlooking” Barbour leading the way. When he noticed the functional fashion of Barbour “amongst the mud and mayhem of Glastonbury,” he knew the models and rock stars were onto something big. “Barbour has been the springboard for a revival of all English heritage garments,” Browne said. “It’s a functional fashion garment that will never go out of style.” Nor, it seems, will the eclectic contradictions that make Philip Browne Menswear one-of-a-kind.

Telephone: +44 (0)1603 664886. Clothing available from philipbrownemenswear.co.uk

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available at

Philip Browne, 3 Guildhall Hill, Norwich, NR2 1JH

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Pure is a boutique for independent women looking for stylish clothing with a fashionable edge, stocking collections from fabulous brands including Marc Cain, Nougat, Passport, Great Plains, Anna Scott and Yaya. Their ranges are housed in their gorgeous Georgian boutique in the heart of Norwich’s city centre where you will find a relaxed an inviting atmosphere, with a genuine personal shopping experience. They even offer a ‘men’s crèche’ with magazines and tea and coffee where your man can sit and relax whilst you try on your favourites. They take pride in catering for the discerning shopper who is looking for fashionable pieces which can be integrated into her existing wardrobe and they love to help with styling and to show you how to pull outfits together. Pure work hard to source individual and exclusive collections, none of which can be found in other shops in the area, ensuring that you’ll always have something that’s just that little bit different to what’s on offer from the High Street chains, but still with the fashionable edge they know you love. Pure pride themselves on their customers experience with their in store stylists expertly helping you to create your perfect look for every occasion, guiding and advising you on colour, style and fit and they really do love what they do. So if you’re just looking to freshen up your wardrobe or need help with a style make over, why not let Pure help you stand out from the crowd this season...

Opening hours: 10.00 till 5.30pm Monday to Saturday 1a Guildhall Hill Norwich NR2 1JH Telephone: 01603 766555 www.shopatpure.co.uk

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Also stocking guns, ammunition and shooting accessories Heath Farm, Great Massingham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE32 2HD. Tel: 01485 520 828 www.lingscountrygoods.co.uk

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Robert Oliver Menswear Sophisticated and elegant menswear ready-made or tailored for you

Robert Oliver Menswear (previously George Goddard Ltd) has been trading since 1895 and offers the highest level of personal service backed by a wealth of experience. We stock the finest gentleman’s clothing either as ready to wear or personally tailored from some of the world’s most luxurious cloths. Select from our sophisticated and elegant menswear, a wide choice of city suiting to country tweeds and we are one of the county’s leading specialists in shooting clothing. Home or office visits are a pleasure.

Robert Oliver Menswear Ltd (formerly George Goddard) Cherry Tree Courtyard 41 Pitt Street Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1DE Telephone: 01603 661220 Mobile: 07961 010059 r.oliver123@ntlworld.com www.menswearnorfolk.co.uk Relocating in 2012 please ring for new address details

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Reepham This tranquil, tucked away town has one of the prettiest small market places in Norfolk

A charming village With market town status

Reepham may feel like a village but it is very proud of its town status which was granted in 1277. When you arrive in the beautiful market place, the Old Brewery House Hotel is immediately impressive – and a great lunch spot. The town, which boasts plenty of Georgian architecture and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, really comes to life on Wednesdays which is market day. You should take time to explore the town's little lanes – who could resist somewhere called Pudding Pie Alley – and independent shops and cafes. V's cafe is a popular meeting spot while Diane's Pantry has plenty of home cooked goodies.

Reepham is famous for having three churches in one churchyard: St Mary’s, St Michael’s and All Saints, Hackford, now in ruins. It was destroyed by fire in 1543 and never rebuilt and the tower was dismantled in 1790. St Mary’s was mainly built in the 14th century and contains a canopied tomb on the north wall of the sanctuary which is famous for its exquisite detail. The tomb, probably to Sir Roger De Kerdeston, who died in 1337, is one of the finest of the 14th century in Norfolk. Sir Roger was Lord of the Manor of Kerdeston, in Reepham. He lies on a bed of pebbles and is wearing knights armour.

Marriott's Way passes through Reepham's former railway station so you can enjoy walking or cycling towards Norwich or Aylsham. And be sure to investigate the splendid work being undertaken at the station as enthusiasts restore it all to its heydays of the 1930s and 40s. If you are interested in fishing there is the Reepham Fishery, just outside the historic town which is regarded as one of Norfolk's premier coarse fisheries having been established for many years on spring-fed lakes.

Heydon Village Tea Room Jamie and Cindy would like to invite you to visit the unique and charming village of Heydon. A beautiful and quintessential place to unwind. Walk or cycle in the park before relaxing in our idyllic tea room. All of our food and drink is lovingly and freshly baked and prepared on the premises. Enjoy a traditional cream tea, one (or more...!) of our homemade cakes! Or something a little more filling from our menu. Heydon Village Tea Room | The Street | Heydon | Norwich | Norfolk NR11 6AD Telephone: 01263 587211 www.heydonvillageteashop.co.uk

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Bonhams in Norfolk Your gateway to the international auction market Recognised as one of the world’s leading auctioneers and valuers of fine art, antiques and collectables, Bonhams Norfolk office offers you direct access to this international market from right on your doorstep. Located in the historic market town of Reepham, we continue to hold the widest selection of specialist auctions throughout the UK, in addition to our overseas network of salerooms in Europe, the USA and Asia. With over 40 specialist departments ranging from Arms & Armour and Old Masters to Art Nouveau and Photography, we’re well placed to offer free and confidential valuations for items you may be considering selling at auction, as well as advise on formal valuations for probate and insurance.

01603 871 443 claire.tuck@bonhams.com Bonhams The Market Place Reepham Norfolk NR10 4JJ An early 19th Century topaz demi-parure, circa 1830 Sourced in Norfolk and sold for £5,000, December 2011.

International Auctioneers and Valuers - bonhams.com/norfolk

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CHINACRAFT at Blyth & Wright We offer ranges from some of the most famous china and pottery brands the world over including: Moorcroft • Emma Bridgewater • Poole Pottery • Border Fine Art • Portmeirion • Aynsley • Franz

KITCHENCRAFT at Blyth & Wright Brabantia • Prestige • Judge • Taylor’s Eye Witness • Kilner • Typhoon

CHINACRAFT at Blyth & Wright, 34/40 Station Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RQ Telephone: 01263 823258

www.blythandwright.co.uk

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sheringham Sheringham remains at its heart a fishing village making it a delightful spot to visit – and be sure to catch a show at the theatre

A traditional resort With a great Victorian past While many of Norfolk's coastal spots have been gentrified, Sheringham remains gloriously untouched. Roads crammed with little flint fishermen’s cottages define the town, with their distinct round stones and brickwork decoration. And on the outskirts of Sheringham are many a splendid Victorian or 20th-century grander suburban homes, some perched high on the hill above sea level and with resplendent views over the coast. So, little wonder that this stretch of coast was such a popular resort in Victorian and Edwardian times, and remains so today. There is a very active railway station linking with stations to Norwich, as well as the North Norfolk Railway setting off along the fabled Poppy Line to Holt, which offers many special occasions in summer and Santa Specials at Christmas. Do not miss the 1940s weekend in September. At the heart of local tradition is fishing, the lifeboatmen and the sea. A small museum, featuring the J. C. Madge Lifeboat, and another museum next to the Crown pub at the eastern side of town, featuring two more of the town’s historic lifeboats, bring the story to life.

The Blue Flag beach is one of the town’s greatest attractions, a classic British seaside resort under the cliffs. There is plenty of activity here: cafés and pubs to visit and all the best of seaside amusements in the town, from ice-cream to candy floss, gift and souvenir shops and there is a thriving market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Children will clamour to be taken to the Splash Leisure Centre, an absolute must on wet days and great family fun at any time. Sheringham also has a very successful theatre, the Little Theatre, with a good variety of shows and cinema, just near the pretty clocktower – the town's most famous landmark. The Christmas panto is always first class while the summer season is jam packed with children's shows, popular movies, comedy acts and more. Two nearby National Trust properties are worth exploring. Sheringham Park offers several well marked walks, with glimpses of the sea, including one designed for wheel chair users. The park is at its resplendent best in May and June when its abundance of purple rhododendrons are in flower and,

later in the summer, you can see the plume of steam rising from the Poppy Line as the train makes its stately progress through the scarlet poppy fields and past the windmill at Weybourne. Make time to climb the viewing towers and soak it all in - on a clear day you'll see for miles and miles! Felbrigg Hall is a magnificent 17th century country house estate that still manages to retain a homely feel. Check out the dining room which is laid out for a 1860's dinner party - you'll want to sit down and tuck in! The Great Wood is perfect for good yomps while the walled garden plays host to several allotments and much of the food grown ends up in the hall's delicious cafe! And don't miss the chilli festival in August which can be a sizzling affair!

NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY GALA JUNE | NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY BEER FESTIVAL JULY SHERINGHAM CARNIVAL AUGUST | CHILLI FESTIVAL, FELBRIGG HALL AUGUST the best of Norfolk

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swaffham Swaffham is making a name for itself as a serious holiday destination with great markets, a noble history and even links to Egypt!

A medieval town Next to a unique landscape

Swaffham is a fine market town in the Brecks which expanded during Norfolk’s wealthy medieval agricultural past as a centre for trading wool, and became a fashionable destination for the well-todo in Georgian times. Dominated by the 18th century Buttercross and Assembly Rooms, the town centre boasts more than 100 listed buildings. It has attracted attention recently as it was the setting for the popular ITV1 series Kingdom, which starred Stephen Fry as a kind hearted solicitor who had plenty of professional and personal adventures. Swaffham became Market Shipborough although it was shown as being next to the sea – just don’t expect to find a beach in Swaffham as you’ll be disappointed! But there are ample cafes and restaurants to enjoy while visiting the

town’s must-sees – the superb double hammer beam roof with carved angel decorations in St Peter and St Paul Church, the museum’s Egyptology room dedicated to Swaffham resident Howard Carter and his world renowned discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen, and the UK’s largest solar panel tracking system at the Ecotech Centre. The market has its origins in the 11th century, and the town centre still hosts a thriving weekly market and eclectic outdoor auction on Saturdays, as well as regular Farmers’ Markets and a variety of indoor stalls and craft fairs in the beautifully restored Assembly Rooms. There are special events throughout the year including a cycling and walking festival in June, a food and drink festival in September and visual arts festival in October. Swaffham is the perfect gateway to exploring the diverse landscapes of the Fenland to the west, with old drove roads giving access to quiet countryside, and the Brecks to the south, with gentle slopes and dry heathland. To the north there are some hidden gems of archaeological interest with a variety of abandoned medieval villages, churches and castles to explore. Special mention should go to romantic Oxburgh Hall, a moated 15th century National Trust property with battlements and lovely grounds worth exploring in Oxborough, just a few miles out of town. And don’t miss Castle Acre (again just 10 minutes away by car) with the ruins of a Norman castle and Priory - there are a couple of good village pubs, too! To really appreciate the area’s environment and heritage, you will need your walking boots or a bicycle. Peddar’s Way, an old Roman road which runs through Swaffham, is now a long

distance footpath to the coast. There are many accessible circular routes and footpaths through a landscape rich in wildlife including rare species like the stone curlew, nightjar and woodlark, which can be viewed at Weeting Heath. The Brecks area contains some unusual features whose origins go back to the Ice Ages, like Pingo ponds. After Neolithic man cleared the natural forest with axes fashioned from flints mined in the area, heath land developed. In the past the Brecks was an open landscape of sheep walk, rabbit warren and breck-temporary fields allowed to revert back to heathabounding with heath land wildlife. Today the Brecks is mostly a landscape of forestry and farming. By far the most characteristic symbols of this countryside are the hedges and shelter belts of Scots pines planted as wind breaks at the time of Enclosure from 1768 onwards to stop the precious topsoil from blowing away. They line the roads and edges of the fields, their branches and trunks twisted by age and the elements. Whether you enjoy searching for a bargain at a traditional market or the tranquillity of this incredible Norfolk landscape you will be spoilt for choice by Swaffham in the Brecks.

For more information and event details visit www.aroundswaffham.co.uk

CYCLING AND WALKING FESTIVAL JUNE | FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER VISUAL ARTS FESTIVAL OCTOBER 66

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Brecks Food and Drink Festival

Building on the outstanding success of our first festival held in Swaffham last year this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event on the 14th, 15th and 16th September is set to be even better.

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This wonderful celebration of local food and drink and the amazing countryside of the Brecks showcases everything local from the humble potato to the delicate flavours of the macaron and from local cheeses to chilled ales and from game to garden produce. Local restaurants, attractions, retailers and schools come together in Swaffham as part of the increasingly popular month long Norfolk Food Festival. Reducing food miles and packaging, maintaining local varieties; some of which over time have become specially adapted to local conditions and recognising the contribution that food production can make to the countryside is good fun and will bring benefits to us all. Many of us have lost the connection between what we enjoy on out plate and what we value in our surrounding countryside. By re-connecting us to our surroundings we can better understand the impact that the vital necessities of food and drink can make to the countryside we see around us. The Brecks sits across the Norfolk and Suffolk border and is one of the best wildlife hotspots in the UK with almost 13000 species recorded here of which over 2100 are of national conservation concern. By involving everyone from school children to visitors, producers and restaurants in this great festival we have learn about this special landscape whilst having lots of fun with lots of good food and drink.

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Strattons Hotel An independent family run hotel secluded in the historic market town of Swaffham Since opening in 1990 Stratton’s has developed from a private listed building into a quality award winning boutique hotel with a reputation nationally and internationally for strong environmental ethics. Owners Vanessa and Les Scott met at Great Yarmouth Art College and began restoring old properties before purchasing Strattons, where they have created 12 sumptuous bedrooms and suites, two one-bedroom self-catering apartments, a 40 cover restaurant and an onsite café deli. Strattons is located in Swaffham, a thriving and bustling Norfolk market town set in the fascinating and historic Brecks. Swaffham remains the elegant architectural gem it was in its Georgian heyday, with many Georgian and Victorian façades concealing their medieval origins. Strattons sits in a conservation area within the town, offering an ideal base from which to explore the Brecks, Norwich, King's Lynn, north Suffolk and the North Norfolk coast. Art, design, luxury and comfort feature strongly throughout the hotel.

Every room is individual, sumptuous, eclectic, hip and funky. From the Red Room, with its carved four-poster bed, open fire and decadent colours, to the tranquil Opium suite where the freestanding bath sits at the end of the bed with room for two and the slick Print rooms, two stylish one-bedroom apartments complete with kitchen, dining area, lounge, cinema screens and surround sound. There is a blend of comfort with beautiful things collected and loved; an environment that is glamorous, yet immediately puts people at ease. Stratton’s award winning restaurant is open daily from 6.30pm and every Sunday for Lunch. The kitchen has a committed philosophy to use the plentiful and abundant seasonal produce on its own doorstep. Everything is made on the premises from the very best produce the local suppliers bring to the kitchens, as well as eggs from the hotels hens and fruit from the orchard. The menu features dishes such as potted Kings Lynn brown shrimps or roast partridge in red wine braised pearl

barley & chestnut mushrooms. Local asparagus, strawberries, cheeses and game are on the seasonal menu, alongside foraged food such as mushrooms from the forest, sloes from the and horseradish from the hedgerows. ‘CoCoes’ café deli sits at the hotel’s entrance and is open daily offering fresh, wholesome, nourishing and delicious food using local producers and suppliers. Pop in for great triple alliance coffee, teas, organic wine, local beers, homemade cakes and cookies, light bites and tasty take out. The daily changing blackboard features dishes such as grilled tian of butternut squash, courgette, local goat’s cheese, with fig and ginger chutney, and Norfolk fish cakes with fennel slaw. In line with the hotel's environmental ethos the menu has a strong regional identity, sourcing from the Brecks, a rich and diverse area, which has long been associated with agriculture and food production. Take home freshly baked bread, organic & bio-dynamic wines, scrummy cakes, local cheeses and freshly prepared dishes from the menu.

Ash Close, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7NH. Telephone: 01760 723845 email: enquiries@strattonshotel.com www.strattonshotel.com

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Take a fresh look at Norfolk With 400+ self-catering cottages to choose from, Norfolk Country Cottages has something for everyone – and the local expertise to make your next holiday here the best ever!

For our full selection of VisitEngland approved cottages, call or look online now. 01603 871872 www.norfolkcottages.co.uk

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Thornham Set on the marshes and with a smuggling past, Thornham is foodie paradise beloved by artists and bird watchers, too

A coastal village On the north Norfolk coast Thornham, a small but affluent village on the north Norfolk coast, has grown up beside the creeks and tidal marshes. You can immediately sense and understand its smuggling past â&#x20AC;&#x201C; take yourself out on the salt marshes as dusk falls and your imagination will definitely get the better of you! Once a busy port, it is now a lovely place to visit, stretch your legs and tuck into a tasty meal. There are several eateries which cater for locals and visitors alike. The famous Lifeboat Inn overlooks the marshes and is a long-time favourite with its small gaslight-lit bar as well as a modern conservatory and dining room. Black cauldrons filled with steaming mussels are a must have here.

The Orange Tree, with Phil Milner as head chef, is a cosmopolitan place offering modern British cuisine at its best while the Village Deli and Cafe is very family friendly and has a real accent on local produce. Do not pass through the village without stopping off to buy some of Ken and Kathy Haywardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delicious Thornham Oysters produced in the creeks surrounding the village. Nearby is Titchwell, an endless stretch of marshy landscape that plays host to an astonishing variety of bird life including marsh harriers, bitterns, bearded tits and more. Be sure to vist the RSPB site here and the neighbouring one at Holme-next-the-Sea, which also boasts a wide, sandy beach.

Both Titchwell Manor and Briarfields Hotel offer top notch accommodation and great food â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Sunday seafood bar at Briarfields is a feast for the eyes and a real showcase of the area's premiere division fruits of the sea. Brancaster and Brancaster Staithe, with their amazing beaches and first class golf course, should not be missed, with the White Horse pub, right on the marshes, a lovely spot to rest a while and gaze at the sunset as you sip a glass of chilled wine or similar, of course! Brancaster Midsummer Music is a festival that organises concerts in local churches and houses which are quite delightful.

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Gorgeous gifts and lifestyle accessories A visit to Mermaid’s Purse is an absolute must for everyone looking for that something special during a visit to Wells-next-the-Sea. Whether it is a mouth-watering lunch or a special gift, you will find much more than you bargained for at Mermaid’s Purse. Conveniently located just a short stroll from the harbour, The Coffee Shop and Garden provides a peaceful retreat in which to relax and recharge. Customers can choose from a tempting range of freshly-filled rolls made from select local produce before treating themselves to a strawberry scone with cream or a slice of heaven from the irresistible cake selection.

Customers will be spoilt for choice in The Gift Shop, home to unusual and original quality gifts at sensible prices. For lovers of coastal living, there are hand-carved sea birds and fish, weighted rope doorstops, coastal stationery and photographic prints celebrating the beautiful North Norfolk coast. There is a wide range of greeting cards for every occasion, and for people who like to stay organised, there are family calendars, birthday-card books, travel journals, and a host of other ingenious files and planners to choose from. We are continually searching out new products which offer quality combined

Mermaid’s Purse 42 Staithe Street Wells-Next-The-Sea Norfolk NR23 1AF Telephone: 01328 711744 Email: info@mermaidspurse.com www.mermaidspurse.com

with value for money. A few examples include mugs and giftwrap and cards from Emma Bridgewater and stationery from Cath Kidston. Our gifts for kids include toys, books, stationery and ceramics featuring The Gruffalo, the Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Charlie and Lola. We sell beach bags, soaps and smellies, new baby and wedding presents, coastal home decor and much more. A friendly, family-run business, Mermaid’s Purse prides itself on quality and continues to attract a loyal following among local regulars and holidaymakers.

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walsingham A place of faith and pilgrimage, Walsingham has been welcoming visitors from afar for centuries

A great place of faith and history Famous for its religious shrines and visitors

There are two villages to explore, Little Walsingham and Great Walsingham, and in true Norfolk style, Little Walsingham is the bigger! At its height in medieval times, Walsingham rivalled Canterbury and the great shrines of Europe, with pilgrimages made from all over the world. Although its fame lies in its religious significance, Walsingham today offers many other good reasons for a visit including an award-winning gastronomic emporium, Walsingham Farms Shops, where farm and local producers work together to bring the best local food direct to customers at the shop and restaurant. Similarly, the charm of the village itself makes Walsingham well worth a detour. Its half-timbered buildings set the place aside from other more typically flint villages and the feeling of antiquity is tangible. Little wonder, as its legend dates back more than 900 years when a local noblewoman, Richeldis de Faverche, experienced a holy vision of the Virgin

Mary asking her to build a replica of Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house in Nazareth where the angel Gabriel had made his revelation of the forthcoming birth of Jesus. The holy house is within the Anglican Shrine of Our Lady, while the famous Slipper Chapel is actually along the road about a mile away. Walsingham Abbey, with its ruins of the original priory founded in 1153, is very beautiful and in the depths of February, the gardens are a swathe of snowdrops so dense you can hardly see where to place your feet! Linking Little Walsingham to the coastal town of Wells-next-the-Sea, some four miles away, is the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway - the longest 10Âź" narrow gauge steam railway in the world and offers a scenic journey with five bridges through lovely countryside. You'll recognise Little Walsingahm in particular from movies as it has often been used as a film location. Most recently Walsingham Abbey appeared in the Stephen Poliakoff hit film, Glorious 39.

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wells-next-the-sea Wells offers everything from crabbing to sailing, beach huts to trains – it's a winner with all ages

With beach huts galore A port and seaside town Situated in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty, Wells-nextthe-Sea is a typical seaside town, firmly anchored amid the traditional delights of everything we love about the seaside. The sights, sounds and smells of the Quay arouse the senses at every turn – chips and vinegar; sweet-scented candy floss and pink rock; raucous seagulls swooping overhead; the aroma of cockles and crabs from the seafood kiosk; all reminiscent of carefree childhood summers. The Quay is the midway point for holiday explorers and day-trippers alike. Take time out to admire The Albatross, a traditional sailing barge, and a flotilla of fishing boats and small sailing craft, before enjoying a leisurely walk along the footpath leading to the pinewoods and sandy beach beyond. If the thought of a walk is too daunting, why not catch a ride on the miniature steam train? The wide, flat beach with its belt of sheltering pinewoods and brightlycoloured beach huts is the perfect place to unwind, gather shells, play beach cricket or simply have a family picnic. Children can play in the shallow pools, build impossible sandcastles or fly kites.

POETRY-NEXT-THE-SEA FESTIVAL MAY

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The rolling sand-dunes tumble effortlessly into the pinewoods, inviting you to explore countless pathways and enjoy the cool shade on a hot afternoon. The diversity of habitats to be found at Wells attracts a rich variety of bird life, and its proximity to Titchwell and Cley make it a haven for bird-watchers. Walking back to the town presents you with a superb view of the harbour and its most impressive feature, the old granary building, now converted to luxury flats which offer unspoilt views over the marshes and out to sea. Exploring the town provides an opportunity to discover the many shops dotted among the narrow alleys and quaintly-named yards. Bustling with residents, visitors and holidaymakers, Staithe Street is the natural focus for shoppers of all ages and inclinations while Big Blue Sky, just off the main coast road, sells a great selection of top end local products from mugs to clothes, furniture, pictures, books and more. The town boasts several good pubs; the Crown Hotel is a must for that special evening out; keep it traditional with fish and chips from French's on the Quay; or why not visit Mermaid’s Purse for sumptuously-filled fresh rolls and home-made cakes.

Nearby is Holkham Hall, one of Norfolk's most celebrated stately homes. Now home to Viscount Coke and his young family, the 18th century Palladian hall itself is simply stunning, especially the Marble Hall and the sumptious State Rooms. The extensive parkland, complete with a lake, woods, obelisk and Coke Monument, offers nature walks, cycling trails and be sure to visit the bygones museum and walled gardens which are currently being restored, too. And many people rank its beach among the best in the county. Wonderfully unspolit, it stretches for miles and miles and is just the place for bracing walks or an old fashioned game of beach cricket. The hall puts on open air concerts in the summer, stages regular plays and the estate pub, the Victoria, is an elegant dining option – with great real ales, too. Nearby you'll also find Bringing the outside in, a coastal lifestyle gallery, where every product is carefully selected to complement the atmospheric, wall to wall photography by owner Martin Billing.

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day cruisers for hire

From eating the best local produce to wearing the best quality clothes… Visit Roys where quality and great prices come as standard. No visit to Wroxham, the heart of the Broads, would be complete without shopping at Roys of Wroxham. You ǁŝůů Į ŶĚ ĂŶ ĂŵĂǌŝŶŐ ĐŚŽŝĐĞ Ăƚ ZŽǇƐ͕ ĨƌŽŵ ŽǀĞƌ ϭ͕ϬϬϬ ůŽĐĂůůǇ ƉƌŽĚƵĐĞĚ ĨŽŽĚƐ ƚŽ Ă ĨĂŶƚĂƐƟ Đ ĂƌƌĂǇ ŽĨ ďƌĂŶĚĞĚ ĂŶĚ own-brand clothing and ĨŽŽƚǁĞĂƌ͕ ƐƉĞĐŝĂů ŐŝŌ Ɛ and toys, toiletries and homewares - all at great prices!

Take your pick from our fleet of luxury day cruisers featuring galley with two ring hob & sink, seating areas & WC. Two destinations to choose from Ferry Marina at Horning or Waveney River Centre at Burgh St Peter View our fleet & book online at www.daycruisers.co.uk Ferry Marina Tel: 01692 631111 Waveney River Centre Tel: 01502 677343

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ROYS O F

W R O X H A M

Quality products at great prices

Open 7 days a week

1,000 FREE car park spaces

01603 782131 enquiries@roys.co.uk

www.roys.co.uk

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wroxham As the gateway to the Broads, Wroxham is a busy place, packed with plenty for land lovers and sailing enthusiasts to enjoy

Both sides of the River Bure A magical place to start exploring The Broads You may initially find yourself confused between Hoveton and Wroxham, which are often referred to in the same breath, so they sound like the same place. They are separated by the River Bure but both are excellent starting points from which to explore this magical area as there are countless boat trips and boathire companies from which to choose as well as plenty of land-based activities in the vicinity. Hiring a boat to explore the waterways, and getting off the beaten track, allows you to fully understand the beauty of this area, spot its wildlife - and try out a few of the pubs, many of which are best reached from the water. And don't worry if you don't fancy taking charge of a boat yourself as there are plenty of manned motor cruisers offering trips although the boats are very easy to manage – honest! While many visitors will be here for the purpose of exploring the Broads there are other interesting things to do in Wroxham. There is, for example, one of

Norfolk’s best-loved department stores, Roys of Wroxham, which has just about everything, including an excellent food section. There is also the chance to learn of the local history at the Museum of the Broads in nearby Stalham, in buildings formerly associated with the wherry trade. Wroxham Barns, just on the outskirts of the town, is a collection of shops and workshops where a number of rural crafts are practised and the products sold. Uncle Stuart's brewery offers a selection of real ales, delicious apple juice is available from Geoff Fisher at the Apple Shop and the Fudge Shop is all that you would hope for! It is set in 15 acres and there is also Junior Farm which is a real pull for youngsters where the accent is on hands on fun – you can cuddly the guniea pigs, feed the horses and help collect eggs. The Pantry stocks one of the best collections of local produce around and their cafe is a great spot for Sunday lunches – and cakes!

BURE VALLEY RAILWAY STEAM GALA SEPTEMBER

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Jeckells celebrates 180 years of sail making The original Jeckells factory in the early 1900’s

2012 is a landmark year for Jeckells as it celebrates its 180th anniversary. During this time the company has established itself as one of the country’s leading sail designers and manufacturers of performance cruising sails. For 180 years the company has remained family run, with currently three generations taking an active part in the everyday running of the business and Chris Jeckells at the helm. In 1832, Jeckells the Sailmakers was born out of adversity by Chris Jeckells’ Great, Great, Great, Great Grandfather, William Jeckells who was a fisherman based in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Unfortunately he was not the most successful fisherman so when his sails wore out he couldn’t afford to make a new suit and his only option was to make his own. It was not until he was regularly the first fisherman back to port did he realise he had made his sails with the panels running in the wrong direction, according to thinking at the time. In those days the first smack back to land would command the highest prices for their freshest catch and very soon

William’s fellow fishermen realised the potential of his sails - Jeckells the Sailmakers was born. Jeckells continued to service the fishing fleets of Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth until the early 1900’s at which point smacks had started to decline but the pleasure sailing craft of the Norfolk Broads began to increase. In the 1930’s it became clear that it would be better to open a full workshop in Wroxham in the heart of the Broads, so the main factory and head office relocated. Jeckells pioneered many design products throughout the years including the original Lazybones Cruising Chute, the development of integral topsails, the Tiki zip rig for the Wharram range of catamarans and the development of a more realistically priced snuffer after they were brought to the UK in the early 1980’s. Jeckells also holds the accolade as being the first UK Sailmaker to successfully fit a window in to a sail. The advancement of computers allowed Jeckells to introduce 3-D design software in the early 1980’s, which was quickly followed by a laser robotic plotter. Jeckells was also one of the first

lofts in the country to have a computer controlled laser cutter, which was a great advancement as it could cut to 0.01 of a mm and heat seal each cut to prevent fraying, as well as reducing the amount of space required to make a sail. Today all of Jeckells sails are designed, cut and manufactured at the company’s purpose built sail loft in Wroxham, Norfolk which, with its raised floor, new sewing machines and skilled staff, enables the making of high quality performance cruising sails, all of which come with a five year guarantee. The company has also expanded in to many other areas including deck-up packages, full rigging services, sail valeting and ‘within the week’ sail repairs service with free winter storage. Jeckells also supply the Sailtainer in-boom reefing systems and the market leading headsails reefing systems. With a hundred and eighty years of experience and potentially the oldest business in boating, Jeckells represents a remarkable piece of sailmaking history, where eight generations of the same family have remained at the helm throughout.

The modern factory, based in Wroxham since the 1930’s

A flatbed laser cutter, that can cut to 0.01 of a mm!

The three current generations – from left to right Raymond Jeckells, Samantha Jeckells and Chris Jeckells (current MD).

For further information, or to discuss your sail requirements, please email sails@jeckells.co.uk or call 01603 782223

Best of Norfolk 2012 (part 2)_Layout 1 02/02/2012 16:55 Page 81

The Broads

Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magical waterland

Best of Norfolk 2012 (part 2)_Layout 1 02/02/2012 16:55 Page 82

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responsible for their conservation, navigation and recreation since 1989. This special patch of English heritage is bounded by Norwich, Stalham, Great Yarmouth, Oulton Broad and Beccles and boasts more than 100 miles of navigable waterways and almost 200 miles of paths and boardwalks if dry land is your preference. They originate from pits dug in the Middle Ages, from the 9th to the 13th centuries, to extract peat for cooking. An enormous amount of peat was removed so that as the sea level rose in the 14th century, the area was flooded and the Broads as we know them today were created.

While boats of every description explore the waterways today, this is also an ornithologistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream. The bearded reedling, the marsh harrier, the bittern and a host of other smaller birds and wildfowl are living out their secret lives among the watery reeds and trees. It must also be remembered that the Broads are an important source of livelihood for many Norfolk people and the visitor is rewarded with the fruits of their labours with great shops, restaurants, pubs and the all-important leisure boat industry all thriving as a result of what was, in effect, an accident of nature.

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The Broads This wonderful protected wetland – England’s largest – has more than 100 miles of safe waterways, carefully managed over centuries for both people and nature.

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Many people associate the Broads with boating, but what does it offer to those who want to explore on foot? Lots - with over 190 miles (300 km) of footpaths through some of the area's most attractive landscapes. Broads information centres stock walks leaflets and guides, including Bure Valley and Waveney Valley walks packs. Boardwalks are often the best way to reach marshy areas of the Broads and many are on nature reserves. These and other easy access paths are suitable for wheel chair users and people with pushchairs.

Gently rolling countryside, quiet lanes, wide open skies - take to two wheels with bikes from the Broads bike hire network and you'll discover hidden backwaters, thatched churches and wildlife treasures. There are bike hire centres throughout the Broads - details from Hoveton Broads Information Centre. Day, half- day, hourly and family rates are available. Centres supply children's seats, helmets, locks and racks, as well as a map of a long or short cycle route starting from each centre. Some centres also have children's bikes and tandems.

The Broads is a great place to go up the creeks with a paddle, and Canadian canoes are suitable for all the family. They usually carry up to three adults but you are advised to check with the operator. There are canoe hire centres throughout the Broads - details from Hoveton Broads Information Centre. There are day, half-day, hourly and 24 hour rates. Hire centres supply buoyancy aids and waterproof rucksacks and staff will advise you on safety and on a suitable route. The Canoe Man, based in Wroxham, is a company offering guided canoe trails and also bushcrafts trips which involve overnight camping stops for added back to nature fun!

the best of Norfolk

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TILLEY – for life’s greatest adventures ALDEBURGH

MALDON

MALDON OUTDOOR LEISURE

01728 452229

01621 853108

BILLERICAY

NEWMARKET

01638 664682 01268 293712

NORWICH

BISHOP’S STORTFORD

01279 653694

01603 622845

BURNHAM MARKET

01603 717600 PETERBOROUGH

01328 738267 BURY ST EDMUNDS

01778 560000 01284 763150

ST IVES

CAMBRIDGE

R C Cadge Ltd 01480 462194

01223 324666

GLANDFORD

Morstons Country Sports

CANVEY ISLAND 01263 740088 01268 692141

HOLT

01263 713932 IPSWICH

GREAT DUNMOW

KINGS LYNN

01553 772382

Norfolk Country Clothing 01553 776617

FELIXSTOWE 01473 211647

LOWESTOFT

01394 282414 FRAMLINGHAM

SAFFRON WALDEN

01799 521197

STOWMARKET

Outdoor People 01371 872483

01473 256061

01502 573751

01449 675511

IPSWICH HARWICH

01728 724776

01255 502080

MALDON

01473 689111

01621 850540

WROXHAM

01603 783150

For a full list of UK retailers or to request a brochure, please call ++44 (0)1326 574402 or visit www.Tilley.com

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With much for both adults and children to enjoy, Wroxham Barns is the ultimate family day out.

Wroxham Barns

Now approaching its 30th anniversary, Wroxham Barns is one of Norfolk’s leading tourist attractions. With its accent firmly on quality and with strong green credentials, it manages that really rather rare thing – of appealing to different ages. Adults enjoy pottering around the shops and workshops, often chatting to the artists themselves or stopping to watch a craftsman create something unique. With a woodturner, stained glass specialist and Chris Hutchins from Norfolk Sketches, there’s plenty to buy as a souvenir of your stay. Fashion lovers should seek out the Gallery where labels such as Seasalt, Ness and Steilmann are on offer alongside hand bags, scarves, hats and more. And Sugar and Spice offers quirky children’s pieces which are much more fun than items offered in the High Street. Foodie lovers are especially well catered for as the Pantry is packed with delicious food, much sourced locally so you can stock up your own store cupboards with jams, chutneys, oils, wines and more. Stuart Evans brews his own beers on the premises at Uncle Stuart’s Brewery, the Apple Shop sells both apple juices and ciders and the Fudge Shop has lovely naughty treats! Youngsters, of course, love Junior Farm where recent additions have seen more

indoor play areas for inclement weather. Children can collect eggs, feed the ponies and bottle feed the lambs - all the while learning more about the care of animals and farming in general as they get up close to many different types of animals. There’s also a challenging 18-hole mini golf course where the next Rory might like to practise his putting skills! And a traditional fun fair operates at peak times so you can take a turn on a merry go round followed by some candy floss. Finally, visitors should not miss the Old Barn restaurant where they can enjoy a late breakfast, full scale lunch or afternoon tea. Much use is made of local produce so expect to see Brancaster mussels, Cromer crabs, Norfolk cheeses and posh bangers made from Norfolk rare breed pork on the menu! Director Ian Russell, whose family restored the barns and has continued to develop this great tourism site, is rightly proud of it, saying: “We are always looking at new craftsmen and women, thinking about how interested in food people are and trying to think of new activities at Junior Farm.” Wroxham Barns stages many special events throughout the year – there are regular food tastings and demonstrations, golf competitions, a scone making contest and more – check out their website for the latest fun and games.

FACT FILE Wroxham Barns opens every day of the year apart from Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Admission to Wroxham Barns is FREE. There is an admission charge to Junior Farm, full details are on our website. Funfair rides are individually priced. Please remember that dogs are not allowed in the main Barn complex. It is 10 miles from Norwich, just outside Wroxham, and situated in the Broads, a beautiful area of Norfolk. It is well sign posted and there is ample free car parking. Call 01603 783762 Visit www.wroxhambarns.co.uk

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FACT FILE The best way to enjoy England's magical waterland is to stay awhile and really discover all that the area offers

Clippesby Hall

Holidays in the Broads have that timeless appeal of fresh air, healthy activities and getting back to nature. Ditch the telly, the electronic games and the stresses and strains of everyday living for a gentler and ultimately more rewarding way of life. Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong, of cooking over a campfire and sleeping under canvas – children will not believe their luck! You can send them off exploring, immerse yourself in the area’s marvellous wildlife and simply wallow in a slower pace of life for a week or two – you'll be surprised at the change in yourself! It's all about finding the right place to stay, somewhere with just enough facilities to make life pleasant (we do like proper loos, don’t we – and decent piping hot showers) but not too many creature comforts to spoil that sense of adventure. Green credentials are important as you want to feel part of this wonderful landscape and know that you are not harming it – rather you want to learn about its rich heritage and help ensure its future. One place that really fits the bill is Clippesby Hall, set right in the heart of

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the Broads. Owner John Lindsay is keen to keep a real family feel to the place which has been in his family for about 50 years. The holiday centre has built itself quite a reputation for first class camping, touring and self catering holidays and has won many awards including a David Bellamy gold award for conservation which is about as good as it gets! There are different areas in the hall's extensive grounds so you can see what suits your needs – some are dog friendly, others are not, some are quieter than others and so on. And there are many different types of self catering accommodation from apartments in a handsome clocktower to pine lodges – again, the choice is yours! But they all are maintained to a high standard and share the holiday centre's extensive facilities and amenities. You can enjoy a swim in the heated outdoor pool, have a game of tennis, try your hand at mini golf, hire cycles, or kick a football around. Of particular interest is a new play area which takes its influence from the nearby Bewilderwood adventure park with its tree houses, climbing and more.

Clippesby Hall is right in the heart of the Broads. It is about 14 miles from Norwich and nine miles from Great Yarmouth. Visit www.clippesby.com or call 01493 367800. It does open all year round although some facilities and amenities are seasonal.

Clippesby has its own comprehensive information centre where you can plan your days out, organise canoe hire, arrange a fishing expedition and discover a few of the numerous tourism attractions within striking distance. The aforementioned Bewilderwood will tire your children out, the Time and Tide Museum at Great Yarmouth provides a real insight into the town’s fishing past and Wroxham Barns has something for all ages – just don’t miss the cute chicks at Junior Farm! And, if you do tire just slightly of cooking for yourself, Susie’s Coffee Shop could be just the place for you, especially for her famous breakfasts where the smell of freshly baked bread entices you in. The Muskett Arms pub, also on site, is a great meeting point for all ages – and the food is good, too. So with all this on offer, the only problem you’ll have is getting people to go home – they’ll simply want to stay!

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FACT FILE The Broads has many yummy eateries but only one which offers such a unique experience with so much to do and see in such a perfect location as The Waterside, Rollesby.

The Waterside, Main Road, Rollesby, opens seven days a week from 10am. Full opening hours and more details on 01493 740531 or visit www.thewatersiderollesby.co.uk It is seven miles from Great Yarmouth and about 15 miles from Norwich. There is plenty of free parking.

The Waterside

If you’ve spent the day walking, cycling, sailing or simply exploring, you need a great place to refuel and refresh yourself. So The Waterside, set on Rollesby Broad, is a great place to head for. It is really like a mini Broadland with boat trips, fishing, mini golf, bird watching and more all available in one setting. Plus a first class restaurant, of course! The owners found the undeveloped site eight years ago and realised the potential for a new eaterie whilst allowing an opportunity for the public to sample the beauty of the Trinity Broads. Now, nestling among the reed banks, The Waterside is a great family destination with free admission and plenty for all ages to enjoy. You might like to stroll to the bird hide to see what birdlife is visiting, watch your children exhaust themselves at the playground or tuck into a hearty brunch or tasty lunch.

Getting out on the water is a real must and there are several options on offer. Electric dinghies and rowing boats available to hire, you can also hop aboard the Edwardian-style electric launch, the Gentleman Jim, and enjoy a half hour (guided and informative) trip around this unspoilt Broad. And there is also the opportunity to enjoy a delicious picnic on the Lady Belinda pleasure boat (two hours of fun and seating up to eight persons), or hire the specially designed wheelchair accessible vessel for those with physical or learning disabilities. Throughout the year there are several workshops including wildlife photography, so why not treat yourself or your friends. (Try spotting our resident family of herons). But pride of place must go to the dining area with its large outdoor terrace which is simply the ideal place for an alfresco lunch in the warmer months. Salads, soups, jacket potatoes and many other lunch dishes including the popular beer battered fish and chips. The Sunday roast is fast becoming a firm favourite with families!

Evenings are transformed into an elegant restaurant offering a hint of fine dining, for which head chef, Stuart Hutchinson, has devised a mouthwatering menu of contemporary dishes. How does sea bass fillet with basil potato cake, wilted spinach, yellow pepper dressing and Cromer crab cake sound? The vast majority of produce is sourced locally including fresh herbs from The Waterside’s own gardens. On Saturday evenings there is always a music night, lots of rhythm and blues, easy listening and jazz, so be sure to book in advance. You’ll be spoilt for choice at The Waterside, Rollesby, a great place to eat and be entertained.

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Looking to discover the real Broads? Well, you need to take to the water to really explore Britain's Magical Waterland

Broads Tours FACT FILE Broads Tours, The Bridge, Wroxham telephone 01603 782207, or visit www.broads.co.uk www.broadstours.co.uk www.norfolkbroadsdirect.co.uk Scheduled River Trips available 1st April to 31st October. Santa Cruises available throughout December. Dayboats available 1st March – 31st October. During the winter months dayboats are available week days only weather permitting.

The Broads, Britain’s magical waterland, is an internationally important wetland that is protected and managed by the Broads Authority. Quite the best way of discovering what is so magical about the Broads is to get out on the water, on a boat. If you’ve never done anything like it before, then the first thing to do is not to panic! You don’t have to drive the boat yourself as you can enjoy an organised boat trip where you can simply sit back and let someone else do all the work. Broads Tours in Wroxham, the village known as the capital of the Broads, operates a daily schedule of river trips on board a fleet of double decker passenger boats. All trips have great commentaries, telling you all you need to know about the area’s history, wildlife and more – 88

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and a few funny stories, too! All of the boats boast licensed bars, offer light refreshments and all the necessary facilities too, and there are often special trips such as musical evening cruises where you can sit back and watch the sun setting over the beautiful Broads scenery as you tap your toes to the music. But it is also great fun to actually hire a boat yourself and be at the helm! You can opt for just an hour or pack up a picnic and head off for the day. Don’t imagine that you need masses of previous experience. All the vessels are very safe and easy to drive – honest! And you are given plenty of tuition and advice to further reassure you. The fun starts as you work out your own route, seeking out those isolated wind pumps, tiny creeks – and pubs, of course! It is a fantastic way of exploring the villages with their charming churches, greens, and individual shops. You can simply potter around the waterways then head for your destination, moor up and go for a stroll, taking in whatever catches your eye and sampling a local tea room. Being on the water gives you even better access to the region’s superlative wildlife, from the birds to the butterflies,

moths and insects. And that’s before we mention the plants. Herons are near commonplace but do look out for swallowtail butterflies, otters, and marsh harriers. There are many books you can buy which act as excellent reference guides on what to spot – and where. A kingfisher is a real treat. Children love the sense of adventure a boat gives and it’s a great way of learning more about nature – while having lots of fun. And with 125 miles of lock-free waterways to explore, there’s plenty to go at! If you like what you see and want to stay a little longer, Broads Tours’ sister company, Norfolk Broads Direct, operates a fleet of holiday cruisers and waterside holiday homes from Wroxham. These are available by the week or short break. Please see the website where you can view the fleet of hire cruisers and holiday homes online or request the latest Norfolk Broads Direct holiday brochure.

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Horning A typically beautiful Broadland village, right on the water, with a magnificent church and a foot ferry!

Between the rivers An exciting and bustling area What a chocolate box pretty spot. The actual village is tucked away off the main A1062 road so there's a leisurely feel to the village which is based alongside the River Bure. Sailing is at the heart of the village as the Bure leads out on to the Broads, giving plenty of options for beautiful trips. Indeed the Southern Comfort, a double deck paddle steamer can take up to 100 passengers on trips - watch out for the evening jazz tours as they are very special. But the village itself is worth pottering around. There are plenty of attractive reed-thatched cottages, a foot ferry that takes people across the river to

Woodbastwick and the handsome Swan Inn has an extensive menu and in the summer its decking is a popular spot to enjoy a pint! Stroll out of the village to St Benedict's Church, a glorious example of a Broadland church, and seek out its small staithe where you might find a bride arriving for her ceremony. A truly lovely scene. There are many neighbouring villages that are just as charming â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ludham, where villagers organise an annual garden open day, Ranworth, where you should climb to the top of the church tower, and South Walsham, where the Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden offer 130 acres of woodland, water

gardens and a privte broad! With boat trips, regular events such as guided walks, plays and craft workshops, it's a gem of a place. And for something completely different and when you really want to let your hair down, head to Bewilderwood, an amazing adventure playgroup for children and the young at heart. Just on the outskirts of Horning, it is home to families of Twiggles and Boggles and even Mildred the crocklebog! You'll have a great day here, whizzing down slides, stumbling across high bridges and trying to figure out a way into and out of the maze. Even the coffee is good!

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The Great Outdoors

Simply a place to get out and explore and discover the feeling of space

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The county is all about the Great Outdoors and what it offers, year-round and not just as a holiday destination on the Broads or the coast.

Out of season, Norfolk is a wonderful walking, riding, cycling and birdwatching county: to enthusiasts the chance to observe the seasonal habits of birds is as enticing as anything that can be offered in the summer months when swathes of sea-lavender and samphire cover the marshes and children plaster themselves in black mud and jump shrieking with delight into the shallow, warm creeks. Your whole Norfolk experience could be enjoyed on the waters that surround it or on the atmospheric Broads where once long ago hundreds of thousands of tons of peat were dug. On the coast, of course, there is a wealth of nature reserves and pathways for walking, nature trails and birdwatching hides. Titchwell is one of the RSPB’s most popular reserves and many rare species are observed there including avocets, which breed in front of Parrinder hide. And at Cley-next-the-Sea there is a superb visitors’ centre with the opportunity to survey the marshes, shingle bank and sea and the tumultuous life of natural history. The sounds of birds crying across the huge, wide-open skies are one of the defining features of

this endlessly compelling coastline. Of course sailing is a very popular occupation on this coast, and there are a number of clubs and schools offering choices for sailors of all ages and levels of ability. Or you could charter the Thames sailing barge Juno for a wonderful day sailing along the North Norfolk coast, or alternatively mess about for a day on the Broads under your own steam or with an expert crew. There is something for anyone with an interest in boats, at all levels of ability. Inland Norfolk is also an outdoor county with its beautiful country estates and woodlands. The interior of the region is still largely undiscovered and it is perfectly possible even on a busy weekend to be the only person on your walk. You might bear witness to carpets of sweetly-scented bluebells in May, the dazzling yellow of rape fields in summer or an immense sweep of scarlet poppies swaying in the breeze. And for children, it is a delight to be able to watch them running freely and enjoying the many adventure parks and outside activities the county offers. All will fall for the charm of Amazona Zoo, with its wide range of animals from Tropical South America or Farmer Fred's

Adventure Play Barn with its state of the art play area, offering children from 0-12 years a unique 3D play experience. An excellent means of exploring Norfolk’s outdoors at the same time as its natural history is to follow one of the many church trails, looking perhaps for the distinctive Saxon round towers. Or you might chart your course by the windmills found all over the county. And many disused railway tracks now form great cycling and walking paths that network in spidery form around the area. Or you may prefer a lazier visit to the many lovely pubs with gardens, whether they are on a river, near the sea or in the depths of the countryside. Finally, the notion of outdoor life should not at all be confined to rural Norfolk. In the cities are some fascinating guided tours exploring their history and architecture. There is no substitute for shanks’s pony when you want to absorb the atmosphere of historic and contemporary life in Norwich, King’s Lynn, or the many historic market towns of the county. Sandy Byrne

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photo: Philip Farndon

Birdwatching... on the north Norfolk coast Nowhere in the United Kingdom is more revered as a year-round birdwatching locality than north Norfolk. Between the landmarks of the old windmill, set back above the low, crumbling cliffs at Weybourne, and the scenic sandstone and chalk cliff-face at Hunstanton, lies a string of national and local nature reserves. Together, these reserves constitute a wildlife haven that comprises one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline anywhere in the country. The National Trust cares for much of the coastal marshes to the eastern end of the north Norfolk coast, including the extensive shingle spit known as Blakeney Point, that shelters the quays at Blakeney and Morston. Moving westwards, the National Nature Reserves at Holkham and Scolt Head, managed by Natural England, offer the shelter of the coastal pine belt and magnificent expanse of sandy beach at the former, and stark expanses of mudflats, saltmarsh and marram-covered dunes at the latter. Further west, Titchwell Marsh featuring a combination of both brackish and

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freshwater habitats, has become the RSPB flagship reserve, offering both the facility of state-of-the-art birdwatching hides and access to another beautiful beach. At opposite ends of the coastal strip the Norfolk Wildlife Trust owns and manages areas of freshwater marsh and saltings at Cley Marsh, and at Holme Dunes, where the low sand dunes and boardwalks of the latter offer access to further expanses of sand. To this vast array of habitats flock hundreds of thousands of wading birds, geese and ducks each winter. The now legendary skeins of pink-footed geese are most easily seen on the marshes at Holkham NNR, but are perhaps at their most spectacular when entering or leaving their roots at Scolt Head or Wells East Hills, often silhouetted against the last or first light of the short winter days. The marshes and lagoons of any of the aforementioned reserves offer chances to see vast numbers of feeding or roosting wildfowl and waders during the autumn and winter months, whilst the sandy beaches and mudflats host impressive numbers of feeding shorebirds.

With patience, the Norfolk speciality breeding species, such as bittern, bearded tit and marsh harrier can be seen at the north coast reserves with freshwater marshes and reedbeds, and breeding waders such as avocets and lapwing can be seen during the summer months in similar habitat. Situated where it is, jutting into the North Sea, both spring and autumn in north Norfolk can sometimes produce large numbers of migrant birds grounded along the coast, including the sought after rarities and vagrants. In truth, with such diversity of habitats, when birdwatching in north Norfolk at any time of year, it is best to be prepared for the unexpected. RSPB Titchwell Marsh Events run until September 2012 They include sessions on Beginning Birding, Titchwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fabulous Wildlife and Digital Photography. For further details: titchwell@rspb.org.uk 01485 210779

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Cley Spy has been trading for over ten years and offers an unrivalled range of binoculars, telescopes and eyepieces, it’s believed to be the largest shop of its type in Europe. Right from the start Paul Marriott and his team set out to offer an attentive and patient approach. As he says, “No one likes impatient sales people who try to push you into a hurried decision, which is quite often wrong. We are always aware that the budget that a customer has set deserves the same time and attention, be it £15 or a £1500. “Everyone here is keen to make sure that you end up with the right kit, suitable for your hobby and your budget. The difference between some equipment is quite finite and with our extensive range of products, including leading manufactures such as Leica, Zeiss and Swarovski you can take all the time needed to assess the equipment. “In our new premises there is the opportunity to test and compare the optics, as we overlook a beautiful stretch of the North Norfolk countryside and we are always on hand to discuss our products. Why not call in and make the most of your visit to Norfolk.”

ALL TYPES OF OPTICS FOR ALL TYPES OF PEOPLE CLEY SPY LTD Alfred Jodrell Barn Glandford Holt Norfolk NR25 7JP Telephone: 01263 740088

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Children’s Norfolk Snettisham Park Snettisham 01485 542425

Amazona Zoo Cromer 01263 510741

The 45 minute deer safari is the highlight of a visit here but there's plenty more to enjoy such as bottle feeding lambs, collecting eggs, watching sheep shearing displays and tackling the discovery trails. Parents will enjoy the farmshop, packed with foodie treats.

It has taken 2 years for Amazona Zoo to emerge from 10 acres of derelict woodland and the abandoned brick kilns just to the south of Cromer town. It is now home to a wide range of animals from Tropical South America including Jaguar, Otters, Spider Monkeys and Flamingos. All the animals have arrived from other British Zoological Gardens and therefore none have been imported from the wild.

Pleasurewood Hills between Lowestoft and Yarmouth 01502 586000 The region's biggest fun park with plenty of thrilling rides. Don’t miss the rollercoaster Snake in the Grass although Wipeout, the park’s most scary ride, could well do exactly what it says it will. There’s a seal show, circus shows, cable car rides, side shows and a lot, lot more. You'll be tired after a day here!

Hoveton 01603 783900

Lenwade 01603 876312 All children seem to love dinosaurs so the chance to go on safari and spot all different types is awesome, especially when you get to climb all over a few of them! With go-karts, a maze, adventure playgrounds and a new indoor area, this is one of Norfolk's really popular venues.

Bewilderwood With zip wires, jungle bridges, giant slides, and treehouses galore, this is an adventure playground with a difference. Set in beautiful Broadland countryside, children love just running around, building their own treehouses, listening to storytime sessions and meeting the Twiggle and Boggle familes that make the place their home.

The Dinosaur Park

Fritton Lake Fritton 01493 488288 A great place for children with various activities from fishing to pony rides all based around a large lake where you can also hire rowing boats. Add in adventure playgrounds, pitch and putt, lakeside walks and an indoor play area for a great family day out.

Thetford Forest

Hilltop Outdoor Centre

Thetford 01842 816010

Sheringham 01263 824514

This 50,000 acre site is great for biking, walking and general charging about among the pine trees. There are large wooden sculptures to seek out and clamber about plus plenty of activities and special events. Go-Ape, where you get to swing through the trees like Tarzan, is very popular.

A family run outdoor centre that offers a range of outdoor activities for everyone 6 years and over. Some of the supervised activities include: The Big Zipper, Climbing Wall, Mountain Bikes, Assault Course, High Ropes, Archery, Super Swing and Power Fan. Full or Half Days Available although booking is essential.

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Norfolk is a real playground for children – here's our pick of the best places to let off some steam!

Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery Norwich tel 01603 495897 Children enjoy the dungeon and battlement tours, experiencing what it's like being inside an Egyptian tomb and having a go on a recreation of Queen Boudica's chariot. The museum's teapot collection is fun while the display of pictures by the Norwich School of Painters is something you should show them!

Rock pooling on the north Norfolk

Whitlingham Country Park

coast has timeless appeal. Head for West Runton, a small cliff top village near Sheringham, which is a rich hunting ground for fossil hunters at low tide. If you’re feeling very adventurous you can make a collage out of your treasures! And it’s free – need we say more.

at Trowse, near Norwich, has a great outdoor education centre, a visitors’ centre and a good cycle/walking route (about three miles) around its larger Broad. Try your hand at everything from archery to windsurfing – and the café is recommended, too. Visit www.whitlinghamoec.co.uk

Look out for the amazing maize mazes that pop up around the countryside in the summer months. Farmers cut tracks through their fields, creating intricate designs that you have to crack! They are great fun and the perfect way to release some energy! Just look out for the signs that crop up on country lanes.

The

Yo.lk for young . folk

The Yo.lk at the Royal Norfolk Show The Yo.lk – a brand new area devoted to ‘Young.Folk’ at the Royal Norfolk Show. New in 2012 and with big plans for its future development, the area will include a live music stage, DJ, mixing and beatboxing booths, media workshops, sports activities and so much more for the under 25’s. Find out all the latest at www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk

And what about a few of the lesser known places to go and see in Norfolk?

The Puppet Theatre in Norwich is a real little gem. In a converted church, children are fascinated by the shows which offer something about as different as you can imagine from the usual diet of PS3s, ipods and the like. Classics such as George and the Dragon are mixed with more contemporary offerings. Call 01603 629921 or visit www.puppettheatre.co.uk

World Horse Welfare (formerly the International League for the Protection of Horses) at Hall Farm, Snetterton, provides a much needed safe haven for mistreated and unwanted horses. You can look around all the facilities, adopt a horse, groom a pony and more. It opens Wednesdays, weekends and bank holidays from 10-4pm. Admission is free. Tel 01953 498682 or visit www.worldhorsewelfare.org.uk

A-Maize-ing Maize Maze Open: 18th July to 6th September Compton Hall at South Creake, near Fakenham is a working arable/livestock farm and since the year 2000 they have been growing the Amazing Maize Maze! The maize is planted at the end of April, or early in May and it takes until mid July to reach 4ft. By the end of the season in September, the height of the maize can reach 9ft! On a hot summer’s day, the plants can grow up to 1 inch in height and you can actually hear the corn growing! There is a quiz to complete as you go around the maze, just pick up your question sheet as you arrive. The field of the maize maze covers 7 1/2 acres, and the pathways of the maze are designed carefully into a special theme and then pulled out by hand. www.amazingmaizemaze.co.uk

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Across the Border Just across the Norfolk border lies Suffolk. A bustling county that offers great days out and delivers ideas a plenty for family adventures.

Great days out in Suffolk It could be a day spent down on the farm feeding the lambs at one of the county’s farm attractions, seeking more exotic species in our zoos and wildlife parks or riding the thrills of our theme parks, Suffolk provides a wealth of inspiring activities... Picturesque and unspoilt, Suffolk’s coastline provides the ideal getaway for all the family. Set within an area of outstanding natural beauty is Southwold, recently voted Britain’s Most Traditional Resort. Classic shops and restaurants are minutes away from the beach, harbour and a fantastic pier. Catch the rowboat ferry to Walberswick, which provides a great site for crabbing. Not far away is Thorpeness which has a Peter Panthemed rowing lake. Oulton Broad, however, is the southern gateway to the Broads National Park. Hire a boat and navigate your own voyage or take part in water sports. Family-friendly Lowestoft has two vast Blue Flag beaches, two lively piers and a range of attractions to entertain the whole family. Or take a trip down the road to the region’s biggest and best

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theme park, Pleasurewood Hills. Come for the rides and stay for the shows. If you are keen to catch a glimpse of the wildlife Suffolk has to offer, there are a variety of nature reserves including Redgrave and Lopham Fen, the largest fen in lowland England. However, if you want to get a bit more hands-on, why not visit Easton Farm Park or Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm where you can feed the lambs and ducks and even catch a sight of chicks being born? Step back in time with Suffolk’s variety of castles, halls and burial grounds. Kentwell Hall has been the leader in large-scale domestic living history since 1979. Visitors can enjoy re-creations of many aspects of Tudor life on selected weekends including those of the Great Annual Re-Creation in June/July and over Bank Holidays. Today you can walk in the footsteps of warriors, pagans and kings and visit the atmospheric burial mounds at the National Trust’s Sutton Hoo. Or if you fancy being a King or Queen for a day, come and explore Framlingham Castle, a magnificent 12th-century fortress – once a refuge for Mary Tudor, who mustered her

supporters before being crowned the first English Queen in 1553. Even when the sun is not shining, Suffolk has a range of activities to keep everyone happy. Suffolk Open Studios is a unique and creative initiative in its own right. These open-access artist studios allow visitors to appreciate the artwork on display and ask artists about their approach and inspirations. DanceEast lets you go one step farther and become a dancer for a day. No matter what your age or training, DanceEast provides classes for a variety of different skills and dance genres. If you would rather be a spectator than join in there are a variety of performances available. The Aldeburgh Music concert hall ensures that the Suffolk coast remains a world-renowned meeting place for artists, students, audiences and academics. Presenting a packed yearround arts programme encompassing music and related art forms and a worldclass festival every June, Aldeburgh Music is certainly a venue worth visiting for anyone with even a slight interest in cultural activities.

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Summer: open from 9.00am Winter: open from 10.00am admin@southwoldpier.co.uk www.southwoldpier.co.uk 01502 722105 Open for evening meals, please call to check availability

f you are a fan of piers (and, ideally, no seaside should be without one) allow Southwold Pier to introduce you to a different level. Lovingly renovated and restored when others of its kind were struggling or being swept away, it is an object lesson in how to put 623 feet of tradition to effective 21st-century use. Nostalgia meets new waves. From its family-oriented amusement arcade to its themed shopping opportunities, the pier is a perfect reflection of all things Southwold. Our newly refurbished Boardwalk Restaurant now has an amazing Northside balcony terrace on which you can enjoy a quiet drink and our locallysourced home cooked food (maybe a squid & mackerel burger in homemade ciabatta) whilst dreaming of your ideal Beach Hut! There are two beautiful new paintings by leading East-Anglian artist James Dodds of a Southwold Punt and Yawl. Child-friendly, we serve early suppers from 5.30pm along with dinner from April to October. A year of celebrations, we will be hosting Jubilee fireworks and Olympic parties. We’ll be holding regular Fresh Fish Evenings, Cookery Demonstrations and children’s events. Check our website www.southwoldpier.co.uk for more details. To sign up for our e-newsletter please email admin@southwoldpier.co.uk The pier’s choice of eateries offers a similar mix of traditional fare and flair which can take you from a hearty breakfast through morning coffee to

lunch, high tea and supper. Enjoy a delicious plate of oven roasted cod served on warm chorizo, tomato and butterbeans, or simply stick to good old-fashioned fish and chips (which can also be taken away). Calling all Coeliacs – don’t forget the first Saturday of every month is our Gluten-Free Batter Day. We also serve Gluten-Free cakes and ice-cream cones. Along the pier, and farther out to sea as it were, that seaside essential, a windbreak, has cleverly been built in so that The Clockhouse customers can enjoy the alfresco experience even on more bracing days whilst enjoying a glass of something and a half pint of locally smoked prawns. It is this variety and range that makes the pier a perfect one-stop lunch and shopping destination in and out of season – important when you consider that the pier is open 364 days a year (don’t go on Christmas Day). What is there to do besides shopping and eating? As well as the arcade games there is Tim Hunkin’s ‘Under the Pier Show’ featuring famously unique handmade machines that are guaranteed to raise a smile. And a thriving fishing club ensures that the anglers casting their lines for slip sole, mackerel and bass provide their own end-of-the-pier show. If you can’t tear yourselves away from Southwold, we have just the answer: Don’t go home! Stay in the fantastic Marston House, minutes from the beach, shops and Pier. When you stay we give you a 10% discount voucher for use on the Pier – now that’s the perfect holiday.

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Bressingham a unique day out for all the family

For where else would you be able to ride on a Victorian roundabout, indulge a passion for all things steam-driven, wallow in nostalgia for one of television’s best-loved comedies and glory in gardens that offer a glimpse of horticultural heaven? Add a couple of railways running around and across the site, a genuine old signal box, a museum, restaurant and picnic place, and the mix soon promises something for everyone, young and old alike. Privately owned by the Bloom family. Adrian Bloom and his father Alan each created a six acre garden, the Dell and Foggy Bottom. Together with the other

linking gardens, there are now over 8,000 species and varieties on display. Alan Blooms’s other passion – for steam led to Bressingham becoming home to a fine collection of traction engines and locomotives. The Dad’s Army Collection is another piece of serendipity. Some of Bressingham’s vehicles were used in the much-loved sitcom when it was filmed around Thetford. Bressingham has extended the wartime spirit by recreating Walmington-on-Sea in its museum. Situated close to the town of Diss, Bressingham’s main season runs from Easter to the end of October, with steam and non-steam days throughout.

There is also a special –events programme running throughout the summer. Visitors can ride through the glorious gardens on one of the four working railways or step back in time on the working Victorian steam carousel ‘the Gallopers’, the beautiful painted horses that eternally travel ‘up and down’ and three-abreast around Bressingham’s restored steam carousel. There is always something for all the family at Bressingham. You can even stay as a bed-and-breakfast guest in Alan Bloom’s old home of Bressingham Hall. Or failing that, take home a Bloom’s bloom from the adjacent garden centre.

Bressingham Steam Museum & Gardens, Low Road, Bressingham, Diss IP22 2AA. Telephone: 01379 686900 For more details visit www.bressingham.co.uk or www.bressinghamgardens.com

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33 Abbeygate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1LW 01284 760011 | www.nicolasexton.co.uk Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 5.00pm Saturday: 9.30am – 5.30pm Sunday: 11.00am – 3.00pm

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U F F O R D PA R K H E A LT H & S PA W H E R E I T I S A L L A B O U T YO U Luxury Thermal Suite with Hydro Pool, Mineral Grotto, Foot Spas, Aroma Steam Room, Soft Sauna, Feature Showers, Relaxation Zone & Ice Fountain. Day Spa Experiences from £20pp. Residential Spa Breaks from £85pp. Open to non members, 7 days a week.

For more information please call 0844 8479409 or visit

www.uffordpark.co.uk/spa Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW.

UFFORD PARK HEALTH & SPA

Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa Looking for somewhere to relax, revitalise or restore?

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Then look no further than the Ufford Park Spa near Woodbridge in Suffolk. Set in 120 acres of parkland this 87 bedroom hotel with golf course and luxury spa is everything you would expect and the reason why it is the ‘gateway to Suffolk’s heritage coast’ and within easy access of Norfolk just off the A12. Come for the day with friends or your partner or make a weekend of it. With spa experiences starting from as little as £20 per person for our twilight experiences – the ideal escape after a busy day with the children or at the office! And 1 night Spa Breaks from only £85pp – how soon can you get here. The purpose built thermal suite offers a series of heating and cooling experiences based on the ancient ritual of bathing. The suite includes a hydropool, aroma steam room, soft sauna,

mineral grotto, feature showers, foot spas and relaxation area with complimentary cool filtered water and selection of herbal teas. Your experience does also include access to the 15M deck level swimming pool and gymnasium – for those looking for a little work out perhaps before they enter the spa. The spa is also the perfect solution for a special birthday party, your hen celebrations, a romantic anniversary or a corporate informal meeting – it can also be hired for exclusive use* if you want something really special (*Min. numbers apply).

Ufford Park Spa is open 7 days a week and open to non members. Call 0844 847 9409 to book or visit www.uffordpark.co.uk/spa

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Cabana is East Anglia’s first one-stop holiday boutique. Prompted by the surge in people taking sunshine breaks all year round Cabana opened its colourful oasis in September 2006. With swimwear in every shape and size (sizes 8-26, cups A-I) plus mouthwatering cotton and silk kaftans, dresses, linens, beach bags, flip flops plus roll-me-and-go hats. Cabana is confident it can make every lady feel fabulous on the beach. Cabana also stocks a full range of luxury lingerie, nightwear and leisurewear. Come in for a bra fitting today. We are happy to help. Vix • Maryan Mehlhorn • Nicole Olivier Eda • Lidea • Gottex • Charmline Heidi Klein • Moontide • Holster • Roidal Helen Kaminski • MyaBlue • Debbie Katz Aubade • Marie Jo • Prima Donna Marjolaine • Hanro • Falke • Philip Kingsley 26 Hatter Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1NE Tel: 01284 700204 Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm www.cabana-uk.com

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Churches

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Beacons of history in the landscape

“The parish churches of England are some of the most sparkling jewels in the precious crown that is our historic environment.” Simon Thurley English Heritage

Norfolk is full of the most beautiful, mainly medieval churches. There are 653 of them, every one with a treasure to discover and a fascinating story to tell. There are more medieval churches here than anywhere else in the world. Wherever you look there’s a tower, beckoning the visitor across the wide open spaces of the Norfolk countryside. From tiny Saxon parish churches to the great cathedrals of Norwich and the Shrines of Walsingham, there’s so much to see and enjoy, both outside and in. Every one of Norfolk’s innumerable villages has a church, sometimes two. Some of the villages they have served for centuries have even disappeared, leaving the churches standing by themselves, lonely monuments to a busy past. Others have been the focal point of village life for centuries, and still are to the present day. Within its ancient walls, the city of Norwich boasts the most mediaeval churches in Western Europe.

Unique Character Norfolk churches have a character all of their own. Most are built of flint from the fields, giving them a rich texture, especially when the flint is ‘knapped’ or cut to give a smooth face. Many have wonderful stone decoration known as ‘flushwork’, giving a magical contrast between light and dark. The county is especially famous for its church towers. Over 140 of them are round, a shape peculiar to East Anglia, many over a thousand years old.

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Every one a Treasure

Visiting Churches

Get a glimpse, through trees, over a marsh, across a field, of a tower or spire. Seek out the quirky like Booton or Burgh St Peter, the huge and stunning, like Salle and Tunstead. Look out for the stained glass, the ancient bells, and the superb carving in stone and wood â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Green Men, angels, monumental tombs and magnificent rood screens.

The Norfolk and Waveney Churches Discovery Project produces a guide to open churches in the diocese. Pick up a copy at Tourist information Centres throughout Norfolk. The guide can also be downloaded from www.norfolkopenchurches.com

Plan a day or more touring these precious landmarks as part of your visit. Trace your ancestors in churches and in the churchyards, many of which have been undisturbed for centuries. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in Breckland, on the Broads, in the Fens, on the coast or in the towns and villages. Whether by train, car, by bike, on a boat or on foot, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a historic church. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll tell you a story that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint you and will add to the enjoyment of your stay.

Peace and tranquillity for everyone in the heart of the City The Cathedral of St John the Baptist is a beautiful building and one of the best examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in England along with some of WKH Ă&#x20AC;QHVW QLQHWHHQWK FHQWXU\ VWDLQHG JODVV LQ (XURSH But St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is much more than a testament to manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skills and craftsmanship, its also a place of prayer open HYHU\ GD\ IURP DP WR SP WR DOO ZKR FRPH LQ VHDUFK RI SHDFH DQG WUDQTXLOOLW\ 7KH FDWKHGUDO LV RSHQ WR HYHU\RQH DQG LV IUHH WR HQWHU The Cathedral also incorporates the Narthex, a new YLVLWRU FHQWUH ZLWK D ZHDOWK RI DPHQLWLHV 7KLV LQFOXGHV D refectory selling a wide range of food and drink, open IURP 7XHV Â˛ 6DW EHWZHHQ DP DQG SP )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ FRQWDFW The Cathedral Shop stocks a wide range of religious items, books, cards, fair-trade products and locally FUDIWHG JRRGV 2SHQ 7XHV Â˛6DWXUGD\ IURP DP WR SP DQG DIWHU 0DVV RQ 6DWXUGD\ HYHQLQJ DQG 6XQGD\ PRUQLQJ )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ FDOO

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Breathtaking views of Norwich %XLOW LQ DQG FRPSOHWHG LQ 6W -RKQÂˇV VWDQGV DW RQH RI WKH KLJKHVW SRLQWV LQ WKH FLW\ 6KRUW RI D KRW DLU EDOORRQ ULGH WKH GHJUHH YLHZV IURP WKH WRS RI WKH WRZHU DUH WKH EHVW WKDW \RX DUH OLNHO\ WR Ă&#x20AC;QG LQ WKH FLW\ DQG EH\RQG 7RXUV DUH DYDLODEOH IRU DOO ZKR FDQ FOLPE WKH steps (children must be accompanied by adults), and the effort is well rewarded by the stunning YLHZV DFURVV WKH FRXQW\ Tower Tours are available every Saturday from April to September at 1.30pm and 2.30pm and by appointment during other times of the year. For more details please contact: 01603 724381 or email: narthex@sjbcathedral.org.uk

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enjoy a

relaxing coffee break

a delicious

lunch with friends? or maybe

tasty afternoon tea For the perfect complement to your visit to Norwich Cathedral. We are open: Mon - Sat | 10am - 5pm Sunday | 11am - 5pm Enjoy Fairtrade tea and coffee, sandwiches, home-made cakes and scrumptious scones.

enjoy our

Refectory Restaurant & Coffee Shop

Delicious lunches served daily Call: 01603 218322 www.cathedral.org.uk

Norwich's magnificent Romanesque Cathedral is open all day to visitors of all faiths and none. In a survey conducted by Norwich Cathedral last summer, visitors praised the building’s beautiful architecture and special atmosphere, but also highlighted the need for a return visit to appreciate just how much the Cathedral has to offer. Located within 44 tranquil acres by the River Wensum, the 900 year old Cathedral welcomes visitors on a daily basis and provides them with a an extraordinary variety of things to do and see. You can take a guided tour and learn how the Cathedral survived riot, war, plague and fire; discover a Japanese garden and a herb garden, and walk through the largest monastic cloister in England. Visitors to the Cathedral enter through a medieval archway which now forms part of the Hostry Visitor & Education Centre, a stunning new development constructed on the foundations of the Benedictine monastic buildings and opened by HM The Queen in 2010.

As well as providing conference, choral and education facilities, the Hostry offers a rolling programme of art exhibitions where visitors can spend time before entering the Cathedral itself. Its sister building, the Refectory Restaurant and Coffee Shop, provides light, spacious surroundings in which to enjoy tea and coffee, a freshly cooked hot lunch or a sandwich. All food is prepared on the premises by the Refectory’s talented team of chefs, using local and seasonal produce.

Throughout the year Norwich Cathedral plays host to a variety of events including concerts, plays, lectures, family activity days, exhibitions, and more. Highlights for 2012 include a Diamond Jubilee Festival of Flowers (1 – 4 June) and Jacqui Dankworth in concert (2 June). Entitled ‘60 Years of Norfolk’, the Flower Festival will focus on people and events that have made a significant impact on the county of Norfolk since HM Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne. Other major events include the Cathedral’s popular Shakespeare Festival (11 – 14 July) – which will again be staged in the atmospheric setting of the Cloister, with productions of ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ (Weds and Fri) and ‘The Tempest’ (Thursday and Sat) – and the Hostry Festival (late October/early November) which promises an autumn treat of theatre and music.

For detailed information about events, opening times and weekly services visit Norwich Cathedral’s website – www.cathedral.org.uk the best of Norfolk

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Stately Homes & Gardens

Norfolk is blessed with country houses that should not be missed

HOlkHAM HAll Holkham Hall

A classic 18th century Palladian-style mansion. Home of the Coke family and the Earls of Leicester, Holkham Hall was built between 1734 and 1764 by Thomas Coke, the first Earl of Leicester providing a living treasure house of artistic and architectural history. Situated in a 3,000 acre deer park on the beautiful north Norfolk coast, it is part of a great agricultural estate. Attractions include: Bygones Museum, an evocative collection of over 4,000 items from cars, crafts and kitchens to steam. History of Farming Exhibition with audiovisual aids and dioramas. Holkham Pottery and Gift Shop, art gallery, café, tearooms, lake cruises and The Victoria Hotel. Holkham Beach and Nature Reserve are minutes away from this truly stunning stately home.

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BliCkliNG HAll

FElBRiGG HAll

OxBURGH HAll

Built in the early 17th century, Blickling is one of England's great Jacobean houses. The spectacular Long Gallery houses one of the finest private collections of rare books in England, and you can view fine Mortlake tapestries, intricate plasterwork ceilings, an excellent collection of furniture and paintings, as well as the newly restored 19th-century Hungerford Pollen painted ceiling. The glorious gardens are beautiful all year round – with thousands of spring bulbs, swathes of bluebells, vibrant summer borders and rich autumn colours. It really is a garden for all seasons and, with its 18th-century Orangery, secret garden and woodland dell, there is plenty to discover. The Hall is set in an historic park with miles of beautiful woodland and lakeside walks – it even has a pyramidshaped Mausoleum.

Felbrigg was built both before and after the English Civil War, and behind the sumptuous Stuart architecture lies a fascinating history. In the 19th century Felbrigg was almost lost to the shopping sprees of rackety 'Mad Windham', but was rescued when it passed to the Ketton-Cremer family in 1923, who restored it to its former glory. Explore the imposing Georgian Drawing Room and Gothic-style library, then investigate the kitchen, with its collection of beautiful kitchen implements and shining array of copperware. Outside, Felbrigg is a gardener's delight, with a decorative and productive walled garden, Victorian pleasure garden and rolling landscape park – with a lake and 200 hectares (520 acres) of woods to walk through on waymarked trails.

Oxburgh's secret doors and priest's hole make this a house of mystery and history. Step back in time through the magnificent Tudor gatehouse into the dangerous world of Tudor politics. Home to the Bedingfield family since 1482, this stunning red-brick house charts their history from medieval austerity to neoGothic Victorian comfort. As well as early Mortlake tapestries in the Queen's Room, Oxburgh houses beautiful embroidered hangings by Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bess of Hardwick. Panoramic views from the roof look out over the Victorian French parterre, walled orchard, kitchen garden and a Catholic chapel. There are quizzes, trails and dressing-up clothes to try on, and charming woodland walks.

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Oxburgh Hall

Sheringham Park

East Ruston Old Vicarage

SHERiNGHAM PARk

EAST RUSTON Old ViCARAGE

WAlPOlE WATER GARdENS

With fabulous displays of rhododendrons and azaleas from mid May to June and viewing towers providing amazing views, Sheringham Park is one of the finest examples of the work of Humphry Repton. Discover more about this famous landscape gardener in the exhibition, look around the shop and sample local, seasonal food from the courtyard kiosk. Stroll along the paths through woodland and parkland or follow the 'Tree Trail' to discover some rare and unusual trees. You could also take part in one of the organised events aimed at making the most of your visit.

One of the most remarkable and enjoyable gardens made in recent years. Created by Alan Gray and Graham Robeson, now 15 years old and expanding at a rate of knots, it is a feast of formal design, and decorative exuberance. It is located quite close to the sea and well protected from the full blast of the wind by dense wind breaks, making it possible to grow remarkably tender plants. Clustering about the Arts and Crafts Vicarage, walled and hedged compartments vary strongly in mood from cool formality to explosions of colour and form. Sculptures, lavishly planted pots and finely detailed walls and gates also play their decorative part. If you are any form of garden lover although far away so worth the visit. www.e-ruston-oldvicaragegardens.co.uk

Designed and landscaped by the Norfolk born artist Peter Cousins, Walpole Water Gardens offers its visitors over 20 kinds of eucalyptus, as well as palms, bananas and grasses, black swans, ornamental ducks and koi carp. With an exotic feel all year round, you can take a guided tour of the gardens, or simply sit back and relax in these peaceful surroundings.The gardens also feature a tea room serving hot and cold drinks and snacks, an extensive range of exotic plants and an aquatic sales area, and a gallery exhibiting the work of Peter Cousins limited and unlimited edition prints of wildlife, aviation, tropical, marine and fantasy landscapes. www.walpolewatergardens.gbr.cc

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Sandringham

A grand house to tour A stunning Edwardian, Royal retreat

Although you are not likely to see the monarch herself gliding through its beautiful parkland, the house and its grounds remain one of Norfolk’s enduring treasures.

The estate was a 21st birthday present from Queen Victoria to her eldest son, Edward V11, known as Bertie, in 1862, and as well as commissioning the architect A J Humbert to build a bigger, neo-Elizabethan residence with lots of gables and chimneys, he had the road moved a mile away from the house. Apart from the house itself, there are lots of interesting events throughout the

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year at Sandringham including some excellent craft fairs, but no excuse is needed to visit as the history of the home chosen by the Royal Family to see in the New Year is one of great interest and reflects many of the family’s interests – in farming, shooting, horses and cars. As George V said of it: “Dear old Sandringham, the place I love better than anywhere else in the world.” The interior of the house contains a wealth of treasure, from 17th-century Brussels tapestries and huge mirrors to mahogany tables and fine china – Dresden, Copenhagen and Royal Worcester. Originally there were 365 rooms in the house but following the demolition of one wing there are now a rather more modest number, a mere 274 of which some on the ground floor are open to visitors. While it is easy to imagine the family using the rooms and the things within them, perhaps it is the outdoors – much beloved by the Queen – at Sandringham which holds most interest.

There are 60 acres of gardens, in which Queen Alexandra’s favourite dogs, Facie and Punchie, lie buried. There is the village church with its solid silver altar, and the whole estate includes seven villages, orchards, grain fields and forests. Also seen in the park are the magnificent Norwich Gates, the wrought-iron wedding present from the city of Norwich to Edward V11, made by Thomas Jekyll. There is a collection of vintage cars on view and you will glimpse Park House, the birthplace of Princess Diana. A tractor and trailer tour of the country park can be taken and there are many fascinating and beautiful woodland walks as well as an excellent gift shop and café at the visitor centre. The shops and restaurants at the Visitor Centre are open every day all through the year. However, Sandringham House, Gardens and Museum all open on Sunday 1st April

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Food

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The best of Norfolk food Staying in Norfolk doesn’t just involve seeing beautiful countryside, walking alluring coastal paths or discovering the rich history of the architecture. Its also about sampling the wonderfully locally produced food.

Norfolk boasts the best homegrown food and drink From plough to plate, from field to fork – that’s the proud claim Norfolk can easily make. The county is packed with gourmet restaurants and an amazing amount of first class producers, farm shops, delis and foodie emporiums. From our very own Bakers and Larners of Holt to Catherine Temple’s magnificent cheeses, there are countless ways to simply tuck in and enjoy food, glorious food! Don’t forget to seek out the many micro-breweries, the apple juices and ciders and there’s even a rather quaffable Norfolk wine these days!

Norfolk Ales Whatever your choice of tipple, Norfolk’s pubs are champions of local food and drink. Whilst you're here, don’t forget to sample some of the local ales – from Woodforde’s Wherry, Norfolk Nog and Nelson’s Revenge, or Tipples’ Redhead or Hanged Monk, through to Fox Brewery’s Peddars Sway and Humpty Dumpty Brewery’s Reedcutter – there’s plenty to choose from! The Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) 2010 edition of the ale bible ‘The Good Beer Guide’ showed that Norfolk was a winner when it comes to local ales. With 31 breweries within the county, Norfolk is second only to West Yorkshire for production, and Norwich itself has been singled out for praise thanks to its real ale pubs. Take time to try the jams, sausages, breads, chocolates and more – the only problem you’ll face is deciding how much to enjoy. Norfolk can be seriously dangerous to your waistline. You have been warned!

Here are just a few of the best suppliers, delis, farm shops and foodie delights available: English Whisky Company St George’s Distillery Roudham Attleborough tel 01953 717939 Surely this can't be right – producing whisky in England? Well, they are – and it’s been a runaway success. The fine single malt is a great pick me up at any time of the day. Cookie’s Crab Shop Salthouse tel 01263 740352 People travel for miles to get to this place at Salthouse, just next to Cley. Selling quality shellfish for over three generations, expect the best crab sarnies around. It is a very informal cafe with good, honest food. Take your own booze and don't miss the seafood platters. Back to the Garden Letheringsett, near Holt tel 01263 715996 A pukka farm shop with a cafe and restaurant, too. It is a first class operation with much organic produce, a good wine cellar and excellent home made cakes! A one-stop foodie destination. Blakeney Delicatessen 30 High Street, Blakeney tel: 01263 740939 Supplying fresh seasonal and local produce as well as carefully sourced deli foods from around the world, the hub of the shop is the on-site kitchen in which hand-made foods are prepared on a daily basis. Customers can collect tarts, breads and pastries still warm from the oven, home-made pâtés, soups and a range of delicious original dishes. continued on page 111

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Relax in the sunshine...

With a day out at the Elveden Shopping Courtyard. Walk through the woodlands, followed by lunch in the restaurant or browse the food hall, home and garden shops before enjoying a cappuccino or a traditional lemonade in the courtyard. Regular events every month; check our website for details.

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Afternoon Tea Now being served!

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GREEN FARM ElSiNG Green Farm Elsing is a traditional Norfolk farm which can trace its roots back to 1580. Its traditional farmhouse and farm buildings originally formed part of the 8,000 acre Bylaugh Estate which was sold in1917.

The field pattern remains the same today as it was in 1917 and the farm has only changed hands on three occasions in the last 300 years namely in 1796, 1917 and 2005. Green Farm nestles in the foothills of the River Wensum just to the south east of the ancient village of Elsing in mid Norfolk and is now the home of Simon and Annette Wearmouth. A public footpath winds its way through the farm along the quaintly named Gallows Hill Lane from which you can see an abundance of wildlife including roe deer, brown hare, kestrels, little owls and of course their flourishing farming enterprise. The Elsing Flock of Norfolk Horn was established by Simon and Annette in 2007 with the specific aim of producing quality mutton and lamb and Green

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Farm is now the home of one of our finest rare breeds the Norfolk Horn. The Norfolk Horn is a very old breed of sheep which has been native to Norfolk for nearly 400 years. In the 18th century there was a movement to create a slightly heavier more commercial animal and the Norfolk Horn was crossed with the Southdown leading to the establishment of the Suffolk which is still extremely popular amongst farmers but it does not have the texture or flavour of the Norfolk Horn. Norfolk Horn numbers plummeted and by 1919 there was only one pedigree flock left in the Country. Since then and due to the efforts of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust and breeders like Simon and Annette Wearmouth numbers have gradually been climbing again and we can once again taste the texture and

flavour of our native Norfolk Horn. Norfolk Horn mature slowly on the soils of Breckland , one of the driest parts of England, where they thrive on low input grassland, which encourages the natural regeneration of wild flowers, herbs and the finer grasses, so loved by the Norfolk Horn. It is no wonder that the meat tastes so good! Simon and Annette are proud to be associated with the breed and their Norfolk Horn mutton and new season lamb can now be found in some of the best restaurants in Norfolk.

For more information please visit www.greenfarmelsing.com or if you wish to place an order please telephone Simon or Annette on 01362 638220 or 07974 188853.

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Picnic Fayre Delicatessen Old Forge, Cley-next-to-the-Sea tel: 01263 740587 Celebrating 25 years in the business, the shop has won numerous awards and is very much a traditional shop offering traditional values, set in a historic old forge but still selling up to the minute ingredients. Bakers and Larners High Street, Holt tel 01263 712323 Yes, it is called the Fortnum and Mason of Norfolk – and is probably better! The Food Hall is simply sublime, packed with both local and international offering. Many people lose themselves among the cheeses - there are so many to try – and the wine cellar is superlative. Woodforde’s Woodbastwick tel 01603 720353 This Norfolk-based brewery has been going strong for more than 30 years. Real ales include Nelson’s Revenge and Headcracker so watch out! It is a fine example of the many micro-breweries going strong in the county. Clark and Ravenscroft Deli Norwich tel 01603 230027 This is said to be Delia’s favourite hunting ground so if it is good enough for her… Run by Alexandra Ravenscroft, the late John Peel’s daughter, there are many, many treats here – with especially good jams and chutneys.

CoCoe’s Cafe and Deli Swaffham tel 01760 723845 Vanessa Scott, who runs the wonderfully eclectic Strattons Hotel in Swaffham, opened this little café and deli a couple of years ago. It’s a buzzy, fun place which is perfect after a look around the town's lively markets. There’s always plenty of veggie options and lots of yummies to take home. Wroxham Barns Wroxham tel 01603 783845 Seek out Uncle Stuart’s real ales, proper apple juice, great cakes and more. The Pantry is crammed with local food to buy and the cafe serves up very tasty meals, again created with Norfolk produce such as Brancaster mussels. Booja Booja chocolates www.boojabooja.com This organic chocolate company has stockists across the county. It is serious stuff. Look out for the truffles. We need say no more. Pure heaven. Mrs Temple’s Cheeses Wighton, Wells tel 01328 820224 Catherine, a farmer’s wife from north Norfolk, is a real success story. Many restaurants use her fabulous cheeses and you'll see them stocked in any decent deli. Binham Blue is many people’s favourite but her new one, Gurneys Gold, is gaining plenty of attention.

Don’t leave the county without trying: Mussels Have 'em with plenty of garlic and white wine – better than anything France can offer. Oysters The Hoste in Burnham Market does the most fantastic things with oysters – book a table and discover for yourself. Cromer crab Early summer for this treat. And go heavy with the lemon! Samphire Summer again. Try it gently sautéed with butter and more lemon. Perfect with seafood. Brays Cottage Pork Pies Awarded Best Producer at the North Norfolk Food Festival 2011 at Holkham Hall. A pie that’s for sharing, not a guilty secret. Turkey Well, it would be rude not to! Norwich Market It's the country’s largest open-air six day a week market.

If you are looking for great tasting food and drink search for your nearest farm shop, deli or food hall online at britainsbestdelis.co.uk

BLAKENEY DELICATESSEN OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 8.30am-5.30pm AND SUNDAY 8.30am-2.00pm (From November to Easter the shop opens at 9.00am)

Tel: 01263 740939 www.blakeneydeli.co.uk

SALAMIS

CHEESES

•

Fine food & wine

HAMS AND

PICNICS

• B R E A D • G R E AT W I N E S F RO M A RO U N D T H E WO R L D • O I L S •

• PAT E S • O L I V E S • G I F T H A M P E R S • D E L I C I O U S R E A DY M E A L S • the best of Norfolk

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The best of Norfolk food

Get a taste of the Real Norfolk and visit one of the county's many farmer's markets during your visit – each market town has a regular market day and is filled with the freshest produce and goods.

Farmers Markets in Norfolk Acle – Church Rooms 2nd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm

Harleston – The Swan Hotel 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm

Aldborough – Community Centre 1st Sunday, 10.00am - 12.30pm

Holt – Community Centre 2nd Thursday, 9.00am - 12.30pm

Aylsham – Market Place 1st and 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm

Hoveton – Village Hall 4th Saturday, 9.30am - 12.30pm

Beccles – Heliport 1st and 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm

lophams – Village Hall 4th Saturday, 9.00am - 12.30pm

Blakeney – Harbour Room 1st Monday, 9.30am - 1.00pm

Metfield – Village Hall 1st Saturday, 9.00am - 12.00pm

Creake Abbey 1st Saturday monthly (except January) 9.30am - 1.00pm

Neatishead – Victory Hall 2nd Saturday, 9.00am - 12.00pm

dereham – Market Place 2nd Saturday, 8.30am - 12.30pm. diss – Market Place 2nd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm Elveden Estate Annual event , Saturday 25th August The ‘Big Onion’ Food and Drink festival Fakenham – Market Square 4th Saturday (third Saturday in December), 8.30am - 12.oopm Fritton lake – Myhills Nursery A143 opposite Fritton Lake Every Sunday 10.00am – 2.00pm

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North Runcton – Caravan Park 31st Sunday, 10.00am North Walsham – St Benet's Hall 2nd and 5th Saturday, 9.00am - 12.00pm

Sandringham – Visitor Centre 4th Sunday (third Sunday in December) 10.00am - 3.00pm Southrepps – Village Hall 2nd Sunday, 10.00am - 1.00pm Stalham – Town Hall 1st and 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 12.00pm Swaffham – Market Place 1st and 3rd Sunday, 10.00am - 3.00pm Thorpe St Andrew St Andrew's Centre, Thunder Lane Last Friday, 9.30am - 12.30pm. Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens near Filby 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm Watton 1st Saturday (not January) 8.30am - 12.30pm

Norwich – Golden Triangle Earlham House Shopping Centre 2nd Sunday, Monthly, 10.00am - 3.00pm

Wroxham/Hoveton – Wroxham Barns 2nd Saturday, 10.00am - 12.00pm

Norwich – Norfolk Showground 2nd Saturday monthly, 9.00am - 12.00pm

Weybourne – Maltings Hotel 2nd Sunday, 10.00am - 4.00pm

Repps with Bastwick – Village Hall 4th Saturday, 9.00am - 12.00pm

Wymondham – Market Cross 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm

Rickinghall, Suffolk – Village Hall 2nd Saturday of each month 9.00am - 1.00pm

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Simply Snape Maltings The Maltings is a wonderful place with a collection of independent shops and galleries, take a stroll along the river paths, enjoy a bite to eat in our CafĂŠ or Tea Shop. Open every day from 10am. Free car parking www.snapemaltings.co.uk t: 01728 688 303

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Crab are a large part of the income of Cromer. The fleet has reduced to a dozen boats making it even more of a specialty!

The Cromer Crab

In Cromer at 3am, two sounds cut through the chilly sea air: the throaty chug of ancient tractors and the song of stirring seagulls. To this music, and with the backdrop of Cromer’s faded Victorian pier and Pavilion Theatre, 40-year-old fisherman John Davies throws on leggings, waders and short boots, topped off with an oilskin for the rain. It’s May, the peak of the crab season, and Davies's boat, the Laura Ann (named after his 13-year-old daughter), will be tugged into the water by one of the tractors. Nine other boats, ranging from catamarans to rickety, one-manned vessels will join his. By lunchtime, the tiny fleet will return to the ice cream parlours and crab shacks of the sea front with their handcrafted pots full of the claw-snapping crustacean that makes this Norfolk town famous.

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You can find crabs in various spots along Britain's coast, so why are Cromer’s so renowned, I ask Davies. “The meat is much sweeter than most – I think the taste is down to the chalky, flinty sea bed, as well as the warm, shallow waters along the stretch of coast where these crabs are caught.” Whatever the reason, Cromer crabs are softer and richer than those you will find elsewhere in the UK. Davies learned the techniques of capturing these Norfolk gems from his father and grandfather. “You have to think like a crab,” he says. “You have to understand how they feed and know the patterns of the sea.” The eighth generation to take on the family business, he was just three when he first went to sea.

As well as Cromer crab, Norfolk abounds with wonderful foods, both in its blessed waters and inland. When not on the hunt for crabs, Davies seeks out a few of these… “I also catch lobster. The stuff I catch off Cromer is incredible,” he says, “but I export nearly all of my catch: mainly to France, where it fetches a higher price than British diners would pay”. Davies and other fishermen spend the cooler months enjoying the Norfolk landscape, out on shoots. “I was out shooting for 39 days this year – mostly pheasants and partridge,” Davies says. “There’s a big estate further up the coast, but there are also some in Cromer. Most local restaurants serve some sort of Norfolk game when its in season.”

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New beginnings at the White Horse Blakeney…

Since taking on the lease at the White Horse Blakeney, Francis Guildea and his wife Sarah have been keen to put their own stamp on the business and as the first phase of a refurbishment planned over the next 24 months comes to a conclusion they are quietly pleased with the results to date.

The entrance lobby, main bar area and a rather elegant semi-private dining space have been fully refurbished and the result is impressive. Using a palette of neutral colours with the odd dash of a fiery red has created a bright, modern and calming ambience in which to enjoy some fine fresh local food, and a terrific range of Adnams beer and Wines in what surely must be one of north Norfolk’s most stunning locations. With a lengthy career as an hotelier with Hilton, Shire Inns, Heritage and most recently a 10-year stint with Adnams Francis is well placed to bring his wealth of experience to bear at the White Horse. Supported by his wife Sarah, a self-confessed ‘foodie’ and creator of Southwold’s renowned delicatessen, The Black Olive, they have a simple approach to running the hotel. ‘Look after your people, give them a great product to work with and the rest will come naturally’ Food is central to everything the White Horse is about and menus are designed to be local, seasonable and sustainable and wherever possible contain an element of theatre either in presentation or in production. After all eating out is supposed to be fun! In Jack Watts and

Ben Stubbs, who head the kitchen brigade, Francis and Sarah feel they have been very fortunate. ‘Jack and Ben are young but very talented and have enthusiastically embraced everything we want to achieve at the White Horse and we know we are going to really enjoy working with them both in the coming months.’ Dishes on their first menu such as Pan-Fried Hake Fillet, Creamy Mash, Kale, Poached Egg and a Muscadet Buerre Blanc as well as The White Horse Signature Dish, Cataplana, have been wowing customers since October. Packed with Mussels, Prawn, Chicken and Chorizo this flavoursome and robust Portuguese influenced dish is a ‘must try’ if visiting the White Horse. ‘We want the White Horse to feel accessible and welcoming for both our local and visiting customers and be a real everyday treat whether you just want to pop in for a pint, a glass of wine, a quick lunch or a special evening out.’ ‘There are more exciting plans in the pipeline but for now we just want to get on with trading through the summer months and enjoying our new life in this wonderful part of the world.’

The Blakeney White Horse, 4 High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk NR25 7AL. Tel: 01263 740574 www.blakeneywhitehorse.co.uk

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a gourmet’s guide The White Hart Hotel Hingham

Strattons Swaffham

The White Hart Hotel in Hingham is the most recent addition to the Flying Kiwi Inns, opening its doors after extensive refurbishments in 2011. The emphasis at The White Hart is the clever use of rustic tables combined with exotic furnishing including Balinese doors, Egyptian wall friezes and Vivienne Westwood Union Jack wallpaper the result is a unique luxury environment in an idyllic setting.

Strattons is an award-winning, green boutique hotel that appeals to all the senses and eating here is a real pleasure.

The family friendly restaurant spread over 2 floors specialises in modern British cuisine using fresh, local produce cooked to the highest standard by our highly experienced, award winning chefs. The restaurant caters for up to 120 guests plus there is a large courtyard providing additional seating for up to 40 during the warmer months. The bar also has a variety of tables and sofas for casual diners and those just wanting a drink with their dog. The White Hart is a place not to be missed.

THE WHITE HART HOTEL Hingham

01953 850214 www.whitehartnorfolk.co.uk 3 Market Place, Hingham, Norwich, Norfolk NR9 4AF whitehart@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

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The chic restaurant serves organic and locally-sourced produce in an innovative and exciting modern English style. Extensive and illustrated wine list, featuring some organic and bio-dynamic examples. The seasonal menu has a strong regional identity. Based in the Brecks, Strattons is well-placed to source good ingredients grown in a rich and diverse area, which has long been associated with agriculture and food production. CoCoes café deli is now open daily for great coffee, fair-trade teas, homemade cakes and cookies, light bites and tasty take-out. ‘Luxury without sacrifice to the environment’, for more information visit us online at www.strattonshotel.com

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the best of eating out The Crown Inn East Rudham

The Hoste Arms Burnham Market

Owned by the Flying Kiwi Inns, The Crown Inn stands at the head of the Village Green. This outstanding Norfolk Country pub/restaurant combines traditional period features with stunning modern-day comfort and luxury hotel accommodation.

The Hoste Arms is very much the hub of this pretty village near the stunning North Norfolk coast, and is relaxed and informal.

An integral part of the community The Crown is loved by its guests for its warm and inviting bar, open fires, friendly staff and the promise of award winning food. To ensure customers never get bored we change our menu regularly and our specials board changes daily. This award winning gastro-pub boasts the prestigious Great British Pub Award for Best Gastro Pub in East Anglia 2010/11; Norfolk Dining Pub of the Year 2010 in the prestigious Good Pub Guide and the Cask Marque Certificate of Excellence for 2010 amongst others in an increasing list of notable awards and achievements. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a relaxing drink or a short break away, The Crown Inn at East Rudham, Norfolk has it all.

Award winning Head Chef Aaron Smith heads up a team of dedicated staff who pride themselves on sourcing the best local and seasonal produce to create innovative and tasty dishes, using meat and fish of exceptional quality. Signature dishes include the 21 day Aged New York Rib steak with hand cut chips, a fabulous Norfolk Coastline Assiette for two which offers a little of everything; such Tempura Oysters, Teriyaki Sea Bass and Potted Shrimps, and desserts such as Chocolate Fondant served with chocolate sauce and coconut ice cream. There are several dining areas including a panelled dining room, a cosy bar, a conservatory and in summer a stylish Moroccan themed terrace.

the

hoste arms

17th Century Coaching Inn

crowninn@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

The Green, Burnham Market Norfolk, PE31 8HD Tel: 01328 738777 reception@hostearms.co.uk www.hostearms.co.uk

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a gourmet’s guide The Ship Hotel Brancaster

Titchwell Manor Hotel Near Brancaster

Lovingly restored to its former glory by The Flying Kiwi Inns The Ship Hotel reopened its doors in 2010. Situated at the end of Beach Road in the traditional coastal fishing village of Brancaster it is located at the centre of the North Norfolk coast, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty.

Titchwell Manor, a coastal boutique hotel at Titchwell, near Brancaster is renowned for its superb AA two rosette cuisine.

At the hub of The Ship Hotel is a warm and inviting bar area with roaring wood-burners for people to relax and warm themselves on the coldest of days. Our restaurant specialises in preparing fresh, locally caught seafood to the highest standard by highly experienced, award winning chefs as well as meat and vegetarian dishes from local produce. The restaurant caters for up to 100 diners. In the summer, our garden provides an idyllic setting for al-fresco dining. The perfect stop off when exploring the beautiful Norfolk coastline of undulating golden sand dunes and beaches that go on forever.

Guests can choose to dine in either the elegant, candlelit Conservatory overlooking the gardens, or the informal Eating Rooms and Bar, which has a sea view terrace for al fresco drinking and dining on finer days. Head Chef Eric Snaith’s distinctive style focuses on modern European cuisine taking advantage of fantastic local fish and seafood as well as fine game and meat from nearby estates. A brasserie style menu with daily specials is on offer for lunch and dinner, while a special seven-course Tasting Menu is also available in the Conservatory Monday – Saturday evening. On Sundays, a retro style lunch is served in the Conservatory offering traditional favourites in stylish surroundings.

Dine or stay at Titchwell Manor Open every day for lunch and dinner with a choice of two restaurants offering outstanding cuisine created by AA two rosette head chef Eric Snaith. Lunch: 12noon – 2.30pm (last orders) Dinner: 6.30 – 9.30pm (last orders) Sunday lunch: 12 noon – 2.30pm (last orders)

01485 210333 www.shiphotelnorfolk.co.uk The Ship Hotel, Main Road, Brancaster, Norfolk PE31 8AP shiphotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

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Titchwell Manor Hotel & Restaurants Titchwell, near Brancaster Norfolk PE31 8BB Telephone: 01485 210221 margaret@titchwellmanor.com www.titchwellmanor.com

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the best of eating out The Crown Hotel Wells-next-the-Sea

Morston Hall Morston

The first hotel to be owned by celebrity chef, Chris Coubrough and the Flying Kiwi Inns group, The Crown Hotel, a former coaching inn, overlooks the quiet tree-lined green known as the The Buttlands at the heart of this busy fishing town.

Celebrating twenty years, Morston Hall is an intimate country house hotel with its origin in the 17th century. It is located two miles from Blakeney on the North Norfolk coast. Morston Hall has won great praise from regional and national press, including East Anglia Small Hotel of the Year, also for its outstanding cuisine and high standard of accommodation. It is also listed at 50th place in The Sunday Times Top 100 Restaurants.

Whether you choose the restaurant for more elegant dining experience perfect for a special occasion or the orangery for a more relaxed and contemporary feel the menus feature the best of modern British cuisine and dishes influenced from around the world. All our food is prepared to order using only the freshest and natural ingredients, sourced locally from farmers, fishermen and traders. Every dish is cooked and presented with flair and imagination and is accompanied by a superb wine list. With all that Wells has to offer including its famous beach and coastline, the Crown Hotel offers an ideal place to relax and unwind.

It is the only restaurant with both three red rosettes’ and a Michelin Star award within a 50-mile radius. The spectacular North Norfolk Coast provides an ideal place for guests to relax and recharge themselves. Open each evening for dinner and Sunday’s for lunch, offering a daily changing menu using the finest of what Norfolk produce has to offer. Without doubt one of Norfolk’s favourite places to dine and stay.

morston hall

Dine or stay at Norfolk’s finest Open each evening Dinner 7.30 for 8.00pm Sunday Lunch 12.30 for 1.00pm Afternoon tea in the garden or next to the open fire Spacious, individually styled suites and bedrooms crownhotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

Morston Hall, Morston, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7AA Tel: 01263 741041 www.morstonhall.com www.galtonblackiston.com

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a gourmet’s guide The Wiveton Bell Between Blakeney and Holt

The Kings Head Letheringsett, near Holt

Situated on the tranquil Village Green, just two minutes drive from the pretty coastal village of Blakeney and five minutes from Holt .

Owned by the Flying Kiwi Inns, The King’s Head has won numerous awards since it reopened in 2009. It now offers a homely mix of original features and modern-day comfort in its bar and restaurant.

Winners of several awards and this years winners of the prestigious Good Food Guides 2010 Readers Restaurant award. Although renowned for its cuisine, the ‘Bell’ remains a traditional village pub where people can wander in with walking boots to enjoy fine ales, wine and food. In the summer you can enjoy the beautiful sunny garden where drinks are served all day. See our web site for full details.

Food of the highest quality is prepared to order using only the freshest, natural ingredients all sourced locally from farmers, fishermen, traders as well as our own herd of Dexter cows which are reared in the adjacent field. Situated just outside the beautiful Georgian town of Holt, it is the perfect place to unwind with a family friendly garden with its own bar and climbing frame and large ’play’ castle which is ideal for keeping youngsters entertained for hours.

Regional Winners of 2010 Good Food Guide Readers Award

www.wivertonbell.com

kingshead@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

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the best of eating out Virginia Court Hotel Cromer

Raffles Restaurants Norwich

Virginia Court Hotel is the leading hotel in Cromer and reflects the Best of Norfolk.

Jayne and Nigel Raffles have been running restaurants in Norwich since 1990. They started with one and the summer of 2006 saw the opening of their fourth outlet.

With echoes of coastal traditions, local art adorns the walls and carefully planned menus focus on fresh locally sourced ingredients for both breakfast and evening meals. With its sun-trap garden, off-street parking and quiet location, it is the perfect place to unwind after a day sightseeing. Why not enjoy an afternoon tea, a glass of wine or local Norfolk beer before sampling a real Taste of Norfolk with the evening’s menu? As well as daily Norfolk specials, Cromer Crab is always available when in season.

Each is different in look and style, with its own character and appeal, but all share the common assets of high quality food, a comfortable relaxed ambience and friendly efficient staff. Pinocchio’s is a stylish Mediterranean brassiere and a Norwich institution. Next door to Pinocchio’s is St Benedict’s restaurant. It’s easy to spot with its smart brown paintwork and large distinctive awning. Pulse Cafe Bar has the ethos of healthy tasty food for ALL; though a little treat now and then won’t hurt! The Library is Jayne and Nigel’s most recent and biggest project to date, a large bar brasserie restaurant where much of the food is cooked on a specially imported wood fire grill. rafflesrestaurants.co.uk

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Room for thought I was recently asked what had inspired me to move to Norfolk and become not just a chef but a hotelier. The answer is simple: a man who saw Norfolk for what it was – somewhere full of picture-postcard villages, wide empty beaches, more stately homes than any other eastern county but, to the rest of the country, still completely undiscovered. In 1989, Paul Whittome realised what Norfolk, Burnham Market and, in particular, The Hoste Arms, a 17thcentury coaching inn, could become. He dived in, head first. I strongly believe it is largely because of Paul and his love of Norfolk that we are firmly on the map and now a hotspot for anyone looking for the ideal break. So was it hard to take the plunge? For me, it has been easy, figuratively speaking. I simply followed in Paul’s footsteps, learning along the way. Over the years, we would recount stories of the unusual, sometimes bizarre, antics that go on in a hotel, share our thoughts on what we thought guests wanted – the bottom line being that every answer was

different because everyone is different with personal expectations and needs. It is now my strong belief that you will never get it right all the time but, if you trust your instincts and believe in what you are doing, you will always be true to your guests. As a hotelier, I can offer guests some of the most awe-inspiring vistas in the country. As a chef, I can guarantee that for hungry travellers this is one of the best destinations in England for the most succulent oysters or salt-marsh lamb. It is tempting, sometimes, not to tell guests about the other culinary finds so that they will remain, like the countryside, unspoilt and semi-secret. Being first and foremost a foodie, however, how can I not brag about what is, without doubt, the best living larder I have known? My thanks to Paul for all his inspiration. Paul Whittome, hotelier, English gentleman, friend – 1955-2010.

Chris Coubrough pictured right is a New Zealand-born TV Master chef who owns and runs The Flying Kiwi Inns, a group of award-winning luxury hotels and inns in Norfolk www.flyingkiwiinss.co.uk

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the best of Norfolk

Interiors

Silk and rose ticking stripe cushion. www.susiewatsondesigns.co.uk

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These days, when nearly everything is made fast using the cheapest materials, good craftsmanship can be hard to find. For those in North Norfolk, fortunately, there is Bluejacket Workshop, where quality, tradition and skill are applied to wood, metal and textiles to make beautiful and practical things for the home.

Bluejacket Workshop Third generation furniture maker Ned Hamond and his son Nick have gathered a group of like-minded artisans and friends around them to slow things down and get back to the roots of their craft. Adjoining their large workshop is the Bluejacket showroom which features handmade furniture, lighting, soft furnishings and textile art, as well as a collection of antique furniture, pictures, and lighting. As Ned Hamond explains, “I am a carpenter following in the tradition of my father’s workshop. I built Bluejacket Workshop with my son Nick in 2002. Surrounded by my father’s tools and oak furniture, I am influenced by 17th and 18th century styles, which are apparent in my copper and oak chandeliers and wall lights. Nick continues, “There is a strong tradition of building and seafaring in my family and like my predecessors, I marry my work to its environment. I delight in function, form and material, taking my inspiration from my surroundings, history and imagination. I grew up surrounded by Old English oak furniture and developed an affinity with strong, simple design, where the material is humble and yet possesses pattern and colour as magical as any. My work and techniques are ever evolving and I try to encourage individuality in each piece.” Working alongside Ned and Nick are husband and wife team Luke Scott and Saffron Paffron. Luke is an antique dealer. He has worked and learnt alongside his father, well-known local dealer Richard Scott, for over thirty years.

He comments, “I share the love of traditional British craftsmanship. Whether it be grand 18th century furniture or country made pieces it is amongst the best in the world and the British country style is one of the most comfortable.” Saffron is a textile artist and seamstress whose work features antique textiles and traditional techniques, covering antique chairs and sofas with vintage textiles or creating something new from old needlework and lace. Her work adds colour, warmth and often a touch of humour. Also using textiles in an innovative way is Wendy Watt, creating pictures of the coast with embroidery and appliqué work. Her unique millinery shows the best of old and new, with her traditionally made hand blocked hats in straw and felt using modern colours and designs. The meeting of old and new is theme throughout Bluejacket Workshop. Here is an example of how tradition still has a place in the modern world. Whether it is the skills at use or the careful selection from the past, more and more people are coming to value quality and distinctiveness. We recommend a visit and if you can’t find exactly what you are looking for then become part of the creative process yourself and commission something! Please see Bluejacket Workshop’s advertisement for opening times and other details. Bluejacket Workshop also supports other local artists and makers through a series of events throughout the year.

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Berber Interiors features

MOROCCAN DESIGN

Berber Interiors, occupying a magnificent Norfolk flint barn just outside Holt, began in 2007 when John Pryor visited Morocco. Whilst there, John met talented artisans and designers who inspired him to set up the business.

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Most of the goods in Berber Interiors are now sourced from small family run workshops who work, as far as possible, to fair trade principles. The two floors of the barn are a treasure trove, the perfect place to find an unusual gift. There are mirrors, lamps, bags, candles, hand woven fabric, pottery, silver cabinets and tables, and garden furniture, sourced from Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez and Safi to name just a few. Berber Interiors also has a large selection of rugs from the different weaving areas of rural Morocco. This land of mist and mysteries has produced high quality regional styles. Morocco is a land of extremes; freezing nights and blazing hot days, lush, fertile farmland, steep rocky outcrops grazed by sheep and goats and the contrasting mild, Mediterranean coast.The distinction between the rural or mountain Berbers and the more mixed Berber and Arab population of the urban and lowland areas is apparent. The Berbers of the High Atlas Mountains were settled farmers, whereas the Berber tribes of the Middle Atlas were semi-nomads moving with their flocks, the wool from which is used in their weavings. Berber Interiors has some fine examples of the white pile carpets from the Beni Ourain area in the north east Middle Atlas, woven in natural wool with

simple geometric designs in darker wool, (see photo). There are also examples of Rabat and Mediouna pile carpets in rich colours from the more commercial, urban weaving tradition. The flat weaves from the Middle Atlas and Zemmour often use unbleached cotton to provide an effective contrast to the darker foundation (see photo). Berber Interiors also offers a fine selection of mixed technique and flatweaves from the Jebel Siroua region of southern Morocco. These highly skilled weavings with an almost cloth like touch, in panels of both lustrous wool and embroidered flatweave are dyed in natural jewel-like colours of soft apricot, blues, green, cream and pinks. John makes several buying trips each year and is pleased to source rugs to customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements. Do look at examples of present stock on the website and come and visit our collection in the recently expanded rug area where you can truly appreciate the feel and beauty of these individually woven pieces. From the town centre of Holt take New Road in the direction of Cley-nextthe-Sea for one and a half miles. Berber Interiors is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Look for the 'Open' sign on the road outside normal opening times. It is a good idea to check the website or telephone for directions.

Berber Interiors Bayfield Brecks, Holt Norfolk NR25 7DZ Telephone: 01263 715555 enquiries@berberinteriors.com www.berberinteriors.com the best of Norfolk

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Jayrest Interiors

the Best of British

Jayrest Interiors in Hadleigh prides itself on local manufacture, local staff and traditional values. Lynda Keeble talks about her beloved 40-year-old family business.

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Jayrest Interiors in Hadleigh is renowned for quality handmade furniture and upholstery. It is 40 years of successful family business and passion that has built up a local reputation that is second to none. Started by Alan James, it is now his children, Lynda Keeble and Tony James, who run the show, creating quality furniture and fabrics at reasonable prices. From humble beginnings in Ipswich the much-loved family venture has been nurtured into larger premises and now has a factory and adjoining showroom at Lady Lane Industrial Estate in Hadleigh. Lynda puts the ongoing success down to passion and reputation. She says: “Being well-known for quality and value is a huge advantage. The business has come on leaps and bounds, with new designs and fabulous fabrics being created all the time. Inspired upholsters, machinists and sales staff at Jayrest take pride in every single job that they do, from start to finish.” A huge advantage for customers coming to Jayrest is the fact that the factory is right next door to the showroom. Never again will you have to worry about unpredictable delivery times. Another asset to the business is that Jayrest takes pride in being one of

the few remaining British manufacturers still in existence. Lynda comments: “The British furniture trade is still going through a difficult time with many British businesses forced out by cheaper, imported furniture. We are proud that we have found the niche in the market for the people who want the quality and the service that we can offer, as well as keeping the local economy strong and local people in jobs. Also, there are no high street overheads, and our customers are often surprised by the reasonable prices for wonderful products.” It is the bespoke service and attention to detail that really sets Jayrest apart from some other furniture manufacturers and retailers. Lynda explains: “I love what I do. I understand that the whole thing can be daunting for customers and an expensive mistake if they get it wrong. “I try to make the experience in our showroom an enjoyable one where customers feel comfortable. I get great pleasure in seeing a customer who really doesn’t know how to go about refurbishing a room, then giving then a little guidance to help them walk away with something that they are thrilled with.”

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The Old White Hart Long Melford, Sudbury Suffolk CO10 9HX 01787 882214 www.persiancarpetstudio.co.uk Customer Parking

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Join the Treasure Trail

In search of the Golden Caroline

The collection will reflect the history, contents, flora and fauna from Blickling Hall, park & gardens. Within selected paintings clues will be devised by professional treasure hunt creator Sam Gething-Lewis – in essence clues will lead to letters and in turn an anagram of a person or place or... Ultimately one lucky and clever person will be rewarded with the unique prize that is ‘The Golden Caroline’

A specially commissioned wooden apple from Norfolk fruit wood and ancient oak, gilded in 23ct gold – remove the quarter to reveal four pips of faceted black sapphires – this is the prize. (The Carver, the Gilder and the Jeweller each work and live in Norfolk). In the 1820’s there arose from the Blickling Hall gardens a new apple, which was named after the wife of Lord Suffield, Caroline. The stock dwindled in the following decades becoming a ‘lost variety’ until one tree was found nearly 150 years later near Oxburgh, Norfolk

Exhibition of paintings by Lizzie Riches The Long Gallery Blickling Hall, Norfolk through July and August 2012

Now the search is about to begin for a unique gilded & jewelled Golden Caroline which nestles upon a down-filled cushion…

The Exhibition & Treasure Trail is presented by the National Trust in association with The Red Dot Gallery. Further details from The Red Dot Gallery 01263 710287 www.thereddotgallery.com

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Art Gallery specialising in Decorative and Fine art 6SDQQLQJ ¿YH FHQWXULHV including originals, prints, woodwork, books, antique pottery and jewellery

GALLERY ADDRESS Storm Fine Arts Market Place Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8HD

TELEPHONE & FAX 01328 730 675 EMAIL LQIR#VWRUP¿QHDUWV FRP WEBSITE ZZZ VWRUP¿QHDUWV FRP

The Garden House is located just a stone’s throw from Cromer’s Pier. The quaint brick and flint facade is deceptive and hide’s a labyrinth of rooms featuring an eclectic mix of art, craft and gifts sourced locally and further afield. On entering the shop you are greeted by the zesty smell of handmade Norfolk soaps mingled with lavender or mulled spices. Colour is everywhere: bold, vibrant primary colours of beach huts and boats, subtle blues, greys and creams of winter seascapes and bare driftwood, sparkling silver jewellery and iridescent light through fused glass. Gifts and home accessories in all shapes, sizes and textures feature alongside the art: carved wooden birds and boats, rusty sea creatures, hearts, cushions, candle holders and many more. Our stock constantly changes with the season. A unique ‘non-commission’ system display attracts some of the UK’s finest professional and semi-professional artists. The range and variety of original artwork on show is simply amazing, there truly is something to suit everybody’s taste. Surprisingly, the gallery stages ten mixed exhibitions each year interlinked with five to seven major events. Needless to say, this venue attracts visitors from all over the world. PICTURECRAFT GALLERY 23 Lees Yard, off Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HS Monday to Saturday: 9.00am – 5.00pm Thursday: 9.00am – 1.00pm info@picturecraftgallery.com www.picturecraftgallery.com

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As you move back in the building the rooms are still light and airy but become more tranquil. Work by a wide range of talented local artists is showcased here: paintings in oil, watercolour and acrylic; fine art, abstract and panoramic photographs and bronze and ceramic sculptures. The Norfolk landscape with its stunning sea and sky is a predominant but not exclusive theme. At The Garden House we aim to stock something different to suit all tastes and pockets. Visit us and see if you agree!

The Garden House 31 Garden Street, Cromer Tel: 01263 511234 email: info@garden-house-gallery.co.uk www.gardenhousegallery.co.uk

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the best of Norfolk

Schools

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Norwich High School for Girls GDST (3-18 years) Find out what makes Norwich High School such a great place to learn and grow. Come along to one of our open events, held throughout the year. Taster days are available across the school. Please call the Registrar to make an appointment. Scholarships and bursaries available in the Senior School. Top of the Norfolk 2011 league tables for both A level and GCSE results.

01603 453265 admissions@nor.gdst.net www.norwichhigh.gdst.net 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU. A member of the Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day School Trust. Registered charity number 306983

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The co-education or single sex conundrum Various studies have been conducted over the years on the merits of single sex education. However, ultimately it is up to the parent to decide which environment would best suit their child.

Just as there is a lot of be said for a school that tops the league tables year after year one must also remember that this might not suit every child. Not every child is the same, and the independent sector affords parents the opportunity to ‘shop around’ to discover a school that suits their child’s attributes. So, whatever a parent’s view is on single sex versus co-educational question there is a school to suit their choice. Parents are offered an array of options to consider including ‘boys only education’, ‘boys and girls taught separately’ as well as the more usual ‘coeducational’ set up. Parents are therefore advised to consider all types of schools when choosing the best education for their children. There is nearly twice the number of girls’ schools to boys’ schools in ISC membership yet with over 100 and 200 respectively it shows that there still is a lot of choice for parents both new and experienced to the sector. Most, if not all, schools will have open days allowing parents to visit the school to see exactly how they run and how their child will fit into the community. Schools are happy to discuss the pros and cons of a single sex education as well as a coeducational one and it is certainly something that can be fully explored when you begin to narrow down your choice of school. Schools will understand that parents may have questions and reservations, and will be happy to discuss any concerns on this and a whole range of other issues which are important when choosing a school. The best course of action for any parent beginning their search for an independent

school, single sex or otherwise, is to visit the ISC website and click ‘School Search’. This search allows you to select your specific criteria in order to locate schools that are appropriate. Within this process you can select ‘Girls’, ‘Boys’ and/or ‘Co-ed’ schools. So, if you’re open to both styles of education you are able to click both boxes. The key in searching for a school is to limit your search only where necessary and not to discount hundreds of schools based on the fact that a single sex or co-educational education is an unknown quantity. Go ahead and request a prospectus; read inspection reports; pick up the phone; pay the school visit; ask questions! You will be pleasantly surprised. Liam Butler Senior Information Officer The Independent Schools Council Information & Advice Service www.isc.co.uk

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ESTON BRANDESTON B RAND A HALL

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RATED RA ATED ‘OUTST ‘OUTSTANDING’ TANDING’ T ANDING’ BY OFSTED O IN 2011 To T o arrange a private visit please contact Emma Rutterfor Rutterford: d:

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Framlingham College is a school that is currently in great demand. Catering for both day pupils and boarders, the co-educational school was highly praised in a two recent inspections.

A school ‘where good is no longer good enough’

The 2010 report from the Independent School’s Inspectorate caught the positive mood there by describing the College as ‘a school where good is no longer good enough’, while this year's Ofsted report gave the school's boarding provision and pastoral care a rare classification of 'outstanding'. Much of this momentum is attributed to new Headmaster, Paul Taylor, who is determined to deliver a truly rounded education ‘that develops so much more than just the examination candidate’. He is known to be critical of the primacy of academic league tables, describing himself as being ‘passionate about academic standards’, but stressing that ‘the only true measure of academic attainment is in relation to each individual child’s ability’. On this criteria Framlingham can stand shoulder to

shoulder with any school in the country, as confirmed by recently published government figures that placed Framlingham in the top 5% of schools in the country at improving grades between GCSE and A level, and Framlingham's A level results in recent years are among the strongest in the region. The College sits in breathtakingly beautiful surroundings and its excellent facilities ensure that wonderful opportunities – and facilities (including a newly built second astroturf pitch) – exist for pupils in sport, music, drama and outdoor education. This year alone the College was proud to boast 22 Gold Awards in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and it enjoys an outstanding reputation in sport and the performing arts. The new Headmaster is committed

to protecting this breadth of education against the ‘exam-creep’ of recent years, while fiercely promoting rigorous academic standards. His watchword is quality: ‘Every child deserves quality input from people who care about them across the full scope of school life, at whatever level they may be working’. Framlingham is a fully co-educational day and boarding school that offers full, weekly and flexi-boarding options, and is an ideal choice for local parents looking for high quality education within easy reach. While the College caters for boys and girls aged 13-18, many pupils choose to join its Preparatory School, Brandeston Hall, at 11 (or earlier) before progressing on to the College.

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Literary Norfolk

Probably the most famous facet of Norfolk’s rich literary life is the University of East Anglia’s Creative Writing program in Norwich. It was the first such course in the country – founded by Malcolm Bradbury and Angus Wilson in 1971 – on which Ian McEwan was the first pupil – and it has turned out a succession of high profile authors ever since, earning itself an enviable reputation as being the place to study.

Ian McEwan

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However Norwich’s literary past goes back many more years than that and has continued to flourish right up to the present day. Amongst the many notable literary events the city can boast are the first woman published in English (Julian of Norwich – C15th), the first recognisable novel (C16th), the first blank verse (C16th) the first provincial library (1608) and the first provincial newspaper (1701). More recently the Norfolk & Norwich Millennium Library (C21st) can claim the highest number of visitors and users to any library in the UK – by far. As a result of UEA’s reputation it has been able to attract first class writers to come and teach, many of whom have made the city their home. But writers, both native and those who have settled here, have long found inspiration in Norfolk and the dramatic land and sea-scapes have provided the backdrop for countless books. Some recent titles include Salt by Jeremy Page, Mick Jackson’s The Widow’s Tale, The Last Weekend by Blake Morrison as well as Black Shuck by Piers Warren, (an update of the classic East Anglian Hound of Hell story) and by the children’s writer Mal Peet, Life: An Exploded Diagram. From the long list of older books set here a few of the better known include Arthur Ransome’s The Big Six and Coot Club – both set on the broads, as well as L.P. Hartley’s The Go Between, (which was memorably filmed here with Alan Bates and Julie Christie and a whole host of local actors) – Restoration by UEA teacher Rose Tremain and The Hippopotamus, by arguably Norfolk's most famous literary export, Stephen Fry, (although he still has a way to go to top Anna Sewell’s sales of over 50 million for Black Beauty!)

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Of course it’s not only fiction writers who put Norfolk on the map. Poetry, too, is well represented, notably by T.S Eliot prize winner George Szirtes and Esther Morgan, whose recent collection Grace was shortlisted for the same prize. Matthew Hollis, Norwich born and raised, is a successful poet and poetry editor at Faber and Faber whose most recent book, a highly acclaimed biography of the last years of the life of Edward Thomas was a winner at this year’s Costa Book Awards. We also have many other well known children’s writers, biographers and non-fiction writers – the list goes on and on... And we are not unaware of it – celebrating books is a big scene here. The list of festivals that take place in the county is enviable for any book lover based elsewhere, the most recent being The Voewood Festival, which takes place at Voewood House just outside Holt over the August bank holiday. In its first year

(2011) it attracted some of the biggest names in publishing over a three day house party in the magnificent grounds. The line-up for 2012 – including a day of Children’s authors – is already shaping up to be world-class.

it’s possible to discover everything this county has to offer either from relaxing with a book, walking though medieval streets or beautiful countryside, or being part of an audience at a reading or festival. We welcome you to join in...

The county-wide Norfolk and Norwich Festival – the fourth biggest arts festival in the UK – will this year also have a bigger literary presence than before and there are plenty of other smaller celebrations around the county too.

Some of the festivals:

But it’s not just festival time that you can get involved. Particularly in Norwich it is possible to find a live-lit event, reading or book launch happening every week, sometimes with more than two or three things on any one night. As well as bookshops, (of which there is a wide selection of second hand and independent), there is the UEA literary festival, the Arts-Centre, Playhouse and Writers Centre Norwich – a brilliant organisation arranging both events with big names and support, tutelage and advice for new writers. Small publishers also flourish here, producing both local books as well those which are well known around the UK and abroad. One of the best small publishers in the UK – Salt Publishing – recently moved its operations to Cromer, and another, Galley Beggar Press, launches its first title in August 2012 – a remarkable story by a Norfolk based writer about his experiences living with his great uncle, the poet Robert Graves in Majorca in the early 1960's.

WYMONDHAM WORDS BRECKLAND BOOK FESTIVAL WELLS POETRY FESTIVAL UEA LITERARY FESTIVAL VOEWOOD FESTIVAL WRITERS CENTRE NORWICH HOLT FESTIVAL Henry Layte is the owner of The Book Hive bookshop in Norwich (Daily Telegraph UK bookshop of the year 2011, Number One in the East in The Independent’s top 50 UK Bookshops 2012). The shop is situated in the heart of the city over three floors and hosts regular book launches, readings and events as well as taking part in a number of festivals listed here. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and at www.thebookhive.co.uk

A visit to anywhere Norfolk will mean you are never far from a great writer, the setting of a great book or a wonderful literary event. With a bit of research

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