Best of Norfolk by Tilston Phillips

the best of

Norfolk JANUARY 2013 – DECEMBER 2013

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THE T HE S SHOPPING HOPPING IN NORFOLK NORFOLK S SINCE INCE

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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 eleventh 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-tobe-missed 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 forward-looking 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. 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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the best of

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Contents Publisher Jonathan Tilston Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Editorial Director Deanna Tilston Sales Marina Jacobs Design Paul Newman alanbrannandesign.co.uk Photographic Contributors Kate Barclay Greater Yarmouth Tourism – David Street ©VisitBritain – Rod Edwards ©VisitBritain – Simon Winnall ©VisitBritain – Richard Surman ©VisitBritain – James McCormick Jo Andreae – oneworldonecamera.co.uk Photographers’ Gallery Holt David Drake Gary John Norman Waveney River Centre Editorial Contributors Laura Potts Sarah Hardy Caroline Jarrold Sandy Bryne Rachel de Thample With special thanks to all advertisers Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 141 Norwich Road Ipswich IP1 2PP 01473 286155 sales@tilstonphillips.com tilstonphillips.com ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 2013

Quality and Printing Certifications: ISO 12647-2:2004 Fogra® PSO (ProcessStandard Offset) CERTIprint® Environmental Certifications: ISO 14001:2004 FSC®(C015829) Carbon Trust Standard

Great days out in Norfolk North Norfolk Thornham The Burnhams Holkham beach and village Wells-next-the-Sea Walsingham Blakeney Cley-next-the-Sea Holt Sheringham Cromer Central And South Norfolk Fakenham Diss Swaffham Dereham Norwich Cafe Society East Norfolk and the Broads Aylsham Reepham Great Yarmouth Wroxham The Broads Horning West Norfolk Hunstanton Kings Lynn Stately Homes and Gardens of Norfolk Across the border The Great Outdoors Children’s Norfolk The best of Norfolk Food The best of eating out The best of Norfolk’s Artists and Makers Schools Churchs Holiday Accommodation Literary Norfolk Opening doors for your business

7 8 10 16 24 28 31 32 34 36 44 46 48 51 53 54 56 58 74 80 83 84 86 89 90 95 96 99 100 102 107 114 120 124 133 142 149 154 156 158 160

the best of Norfolk 5

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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. 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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North Norfolk

8 the best of Norfolk

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What could be better than whiling away a perfect summer day by loading up on some of the many local delicacies and having an impromptu picnic on one of north Norfolk’s enchanting beaches? Have a wander around Holt’s sumptuous gourmet goods purveyors before meandering to Wells-Next-the-Sea, where a stroll through the pine woods will bring you out to colourful beach huts overlooking miles of sand. Or pick up artisan bread, olives, cheeses and more at Cley’s legendary Picnic Fayre deli, and take in the endless blue waters cascading from the nearest sun-warmed pebble beach. Every taste is tailored for in this foodloving stretch of Norfolk, from dozens of delicious ice cream flavours in Sheringham, to meltingly good fish & chips in Cromer, to the famous Cromer crabs available at seaside fish sellers. Fine pubs and hotel restaurants pepper the coast, and as much care goes into the pretty flintstone structures as is paid to the food and drinks. If you’re unlucky with the weather, a tour of Blickling or Felbrigg halls will brighten the mood, or pop to the Burnhams for a shopping excursion. From April-October, the narrow gauge Wells-Walsingham Light Railway is a pleasant way to visit the Walsingham Abbey grounds, a place of pilgrimage since the 11th Century. And no matter where you venture in north Norfolk, keep your eyes peeled for birds – it’s one of the world’s foremost natural habitats and renown for rare species.

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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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“Food so good, the entire population of Norfolk should be queuing to get in” The Guardian

UNCOMPLICATED FOOD AND OPEN SPACES Norfolk is often described as having Britain’s last unspoilt coastline, with a plethora of pretty villages, endless fields, wide open skies and magnificent views. Briarfields Hotel provides a tranquil setting to enjoy all that North Norfolk has to offer. Set between RSPB Titchwell and the Royal West Norfolk golf course, both overlooking the beach at Brancaster, the hotel was awarded a prestigious three-star Hotel Gold Award by Visit England in November 2011. Pull into the wide, gravelled car park and immediately a sense of space encourages guests to take in the beautiful surroundings, with views across the salt marshes. At reception,

the hotel’s team offers a warm welcome – all local residents, they know the area like the back of their hand and can recommend a wealth of excursions and activities, whether it’s a bird tour, a game of golf or a walk along the famous coastal footpath. Relaxation and Briarfields are synonymous – during the summer months, enjoy the peace of the hotel’s rose courtyard or sit on the decking area and unwind with a glass of Champagne, as the children play under your supervision in the play area. If the weather turns chilly, there are plenty of spaces inside to cosy up – settle in the snug in front of an open fire with the papers and a pint, play games

Main Road, Titchwell, Norfolk PE31 8BB Tel: 01485 210742 email: info@briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk

or enjoy coffee in the sun lounge or spacious dining room. Briarfields has a wide range of dishes to satisfy all tastes and appetites. Its kitchen team freshly prepares locally sourced ingredients, including Holkham venison and Brancaster mussels, into an array of tempting choices. The hotel has also installed a smokehouse to prepare an appetising selection of fish and meat dishes. Whether it’s Sunday lunch, a sophisticated afternoon tea or a children’s menu cooked to the same high standards, Briarfields’ food and accommodation has captured the attention of hotel guests and local residents who return time and again.

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ALL PATHS LEAD TO THE LODGE Nestled in Old Hunstanton, The Lodge is a Listed hidden gem, well-matched with its idyllic location. Recognised with a four-star Inn and Gold Award by Visit England, The Lodge is a vibrant meeting place and relaxation zone. The bar welcomes you in for a drink while the residents’ lounge offers a tucked away spot to relax. The Lodge’s freshly prepared culinary creations taste as good as they look. Served with style and a smile, you can’t help but enjoy yourself here. For those who want to explore all that North Norfolk has to offer, The Lodge provides the perfect base. A nine-mile walk from The Lodge leads to Ringstead Downs and the North Norfolk Coastal Path.

On the first floor, ten rooms are decorated with contemporary materials to reflect The Lodge’s coastal location. On the second floor, The Attic and The Loft have been developed into family suites offering versatile accommodation that doesn’t skimp on quality. The Lodge’s courtyard rooms provide an enclosed area at the rear of the property that can be booked as a group or singly for a uniquely luxurious experience. Each of these rooms – the Garden Shed, the Bottle Store and the Coal Bunker – have been created around the original store rooms’ features with seating areas, skylights and a Jacuzzi bath in the Coal Bunker. Dogs are welcome in these rooms.

Beyond the main building, The Lodge Cottage provides a deluxe self-catering home from home with four double bedrooms over three floors. Croissants and newspapers are available at the Old Post Office a few feet away and, if a day on the coast tires everyone out, there's always the easy option of dining out at The Lodge, with a short stroll home after a nightcap. Welcoming, flexible, contemporary and value-for-money - this curious blend of attributes create an environment that has won a growing number of fans for The Lodge. Whether you are looking for a glass of wine to relax and catch up with friends or a well-deserved break, come and discover this coastal gem.

“ From arrival they got everything just right… We never thought we’d find this in Old Hunstanton” Trip Advisor

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6HX Tel: 01485 532896 email: info@thelodgeoldhunstanton.co.uk thelodgeoldhunstanton.co.uk

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Chelsea-on-Sea

Discover the delights of the Burnhams

16 the best of Norfolk

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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 accounts in no small measure for its reputation as a stylish haunt for young and old alike. 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 number of shops including The One Stop Nature Shop, a ‘must visit’ store for anyone with an interest in wildlife and Gone Crabbing, where quality kitchenware, stationery, soaps and clothing are all ‘splashed’ with unique seaside-inspired designs featuring cute and characterful sea creatures and fun slogans encapsulating the great British beach holiday.

DEEPDALE OUTDOOR & WILDLIFE FESTIVAL APRIL 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 17

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Norfolk Living is the most inspiring and extensive gift, garden, interior and fashion accessory store in Norfolk. Just go there and take a look. It is such a beautiful shop – you won’t have seen another one like it. ‘Norfolk Living’ offers an ever-changing and dazzling array of decorative products to enhance your home, holiday cottage, conservatory, terrace and garden. Attractively displayed in the inspirational setting of a double-fronted Georgian building with leafy courtyard, old stable, cottage and barn, the huge range of delightful goods is carefully selected to offer finger-on-the-pulse style and value. The imaginative displays are beautifully co-ordinated, ranging from tasteful muted tones to seasonal vibrant summer colours, cosy autumnal hues and rich winter shades. Deceptively large, the interior is an indulgent and sumptuous feast for the eyes. There are opulent cushions and throws, distinctive greeting cards and stationery, inspiring pictures and lifestyle books, pretty glassware and china, smart gifts for men, and gorgeous jewellery, scarves and bags. A delicious scent from candles and bath luxuries pervades the air. Stylish clocks, lamps, ceramics, mirrors and distressed furniture complete the look. Venture outside into the courtyard to discover a large selection of garden pots, bird baths, statues and stone plaques. In the barn and old stable you will find exquisite wrought-iron furniture, candleholders, planters, baskets, enamelware, birdhouses and garden accessories. And in the cottage, pretty mugs, tea towels, picnic ware, heartshaped crockery, engraved glass jugs, and vintage kitchen supplies are tempting buys. Prices range, but always offer good value, making it virtually impossible to leave ‘Norfolk Living’ empty-handed.

NORFOLK LIVING MARKET PLACE BURNHAM MARKET www.norfolkliving.co.uk Photography by Andrew Kitt

18 the best of Norfolk

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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@burnhammarketpine.co.uk | www.burnhammarketpine.co.uk 20 the best of Norfolk

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Selling property from the country to the coast...

For details of all properties visit www.bedfords.co.uk Burnham Market Office: 01328 730500

Creake Road, Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8EA Telephone: 01328 823413 www.theclassicshedco.co.uk

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For an engaging read look no further than...

the best of

Norfolk

If you would like to advertise in the next edition please call 01473 286155. View our digital magazines at www.tilstonphillips.com

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Bringing sophistication, glamour and glitz to North Norfolk Contemporary Jewellers Urban Armour, located in The Old Chapel in Burnham Market, is a jewellery boutique with a difference, being recently voted one of the top 25 Jewellers in the country by Professional Jeweller magazine. Featuring luxury pieces with a unique twist and a knowledgeable sales team ensuring personal, informed attention – a satisfying retail experience. Classic brands sit side by side with edgier pieces in a charming and relaxed space – a beautiful converted Methodist Chapel Brands such as the recently created Bering watches made from titanium cases and sapphire glass are featured. The watches are the inspiration of Danish adventurer and businessman Rene Kaerskov, who jumped out of a helicopter into the ice cold of the Arctic, directly over the North Pole in 2008. His heart was conquered by the cool, simple beauty and infinite white expanse of the eternal ice. Rene wanted to create a watch brand that would match this. Deakin & Francis, specializing in cufflinks, is a British classic established in 1786, and is today, seven generations later, still owned and managed by the Deakin family. The collection ranges from the classic to the jolly including a series of sterling silver cufflinks ranging from sailing boats to green wellies! Dower & Hall another British classic brand that designs and produces modern pieces with a 21st century twist;

designs that you will treasure and that stand the test of time. One of Urban Armour’s best selling lines is the stunning Crislu fashion collection from the USA. Every piece of jewellery is uniquely tailor-made with Sterling Silver and cubiz zirconia offering clients unparalleled glamour and craftsmanship at affordable prices. These beautiful creations ooze quality; inspired by extraordinary design and creating an exceptionally beautiful and sustainable style that gives Crislu jewellery an aesthetic that endures. Exclusive to Norfolk. Monica Vinader’s vision for her brand was simple – to create beautiful pieces using real stones and precious metals that sell at a sensible price point. Monica, who is based in Norfolk, sums up her pieces describing them as ‘simple and striking – there is little fuss, so they feel contemporary whilst also being

timeless, luxe and chic’. The brand signature is it’s vibrant and colourful stones and their faceted cuts. A-listers seen wearing Monica include Keira Knightley and Cameron Diaz. And finally if fun and funky ticks your box then ChloBo is the brand for you. A young and vibrant take on iconic designs, as worn by Elle Macpherson and Cheryl Cole. ‘Boho’ chic with a difference – layered and stacked necklaces and bracelets to complete that modern look. So whether you are living in Norfolk or simply passing through for a few days, Urban Armour in Burnham Market is one of those ‘must visit’ shops that you definitely should come and see. You never know, you might find that beautiful piece of jewellery with which to remember a special occasion, or simply just treat yourself.

The Old Chapel North Street Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8HG info@urbanarmour.co.uk | 01328 738 880 the best of Norfolk 23

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Holkham beach and village Many people rank Holkham 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. Nearby is Holkham Hall, home to Viscount Coke and his family, the 18th century Palladian hall is stunning, especially the Marble Hall and the sumptuous State Rooms. The extensive parkland, complete with a lake, woods, obelisk and Coke Monument, offers nature walks and cycling trails. The hall puts on open air concerts in the summer and stages regular plays â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also whilst you are here, make sure you visit Holkham Village, with its exciting range of shops.

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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

Take a piece of the coast home

Established 11 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.

Everything Outdoor opened its second store in the Reading Rooms in Holkham Village in September 2012.

Sandringham Visitor Centre Sandringham PE35 6EH Tel: 01485 298082

Offering a great range of country, outdoor and lifestyle clothing and gifts. The Reading Room is a magnificent building with many original features and makes a wonderful setting to browse through the ranges from Jack Murphy, Dents, Alice Collins, Strawberry Bay, Tayberry, Kanyon and Hunter Outdoor. For the more reluctant shoppers we have a nice squishy sofa where you can relax.

The Reading Rooms Holkham Village Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1RG Tel: 01328 712120

The original store at Sandringham may be much smaller, tucked away next door to the plant centre but the welcome will be the same. We are open daily and look forward to seeing you soon.

www.everythingoutdoor.co.uk

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living life in colour

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The Moroccan culture is of welcoming visitors into their own home. Hence their interest in making the interior of a house comfortable and enjoyable, with the creative use of lighting, wood carving, decorative metalwork, rugs, luscious fabrics, luxurious tassels, cushions and the inevitable tray with its sparkling teapot ready to serve Mint tea.

Light is very important in the Moroccan way of life, therefore anything that enhances and spreads light, such as mirrors, are used to their full advantage. Mirrors are not only a source of one’s reflection, but enhance the light whether natural, candle or electric, and decorate the beautiful interiors. The Berber carpet or Moroccan Rug is not just a carpet. Woven not only to decorate the home but for warmth, to show prosperity and welcome the visitor.

It is also the way in which the authentic traditions of the Berbers are kept alive. The unique designs of these carpets have been woven from generation to generation telling stories to illustrate all aspects of their lives. The mythology of plants and water run through much of the Moroccan way of life. During the hot, dusty days, it is a great source of pleasure to sit in a secluded garden enjoying the heady scent of roses and the sound of tinkling fountains.

John Pryor the owner of Berber Living has personally sourced the stock and has artisans in Morocco (often small family businesses) to make mirrors, rugs and furniture for Berber to enable our customers to recreate an exciting and authentic atmosphere in their own home. There is something for every taste from rich Moroccan to Contemporary design. We look forward to welcoming you into either of our shops and introduce you to Berber.

BERBER HOLKHAM Ancient House, Coast Road, Holkham Village, Norfolk NR23 1AD. Telephone: 01328 711517. Open seven days a week – 10.00am to 5.00pm. BERBER HOLT Bayfield Brecks, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7DZ. Telephone: 01263 715555. Open Wednesday to Saturday – 10.00am to 4.00pm.

info@berberinteriors.com | www.berberinteriors.com the best of Norfolk 27

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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. 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

POETRY-NEXT-THE-SEA FESTIVAL MAY 28 the best of Norfolk

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.

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BARBOUR • DUBARRY • MUSTO • LAZY JACKS • SEASALT ARMOR LUX • CHATHAM • LE CHAMEAU and more! SEASALT

DUBARRY

RE MOORE & MOO

ZOO BOOTS

Wonderful casual and country clothing, accessories and footwear, perfect for life on the North Norfolk coast 55 Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk Tel:01328 710496 www.beachcomberwells.co.uk

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$FM FCS BU J OH U IF #FT U PG /PS G PM L + VOF + VOF 5 IF รถOFT U M J W FT U PD L J O U IF D PVOU S Z ' PPE )B M M $PPL FS Z %FNPOT U S B U J POT ' M PXFS (B S EFO 4 IPX 3VS B M $S B G U T "HS J D VM U VS B M .B D IJ OFS Z (S B OE 3J OH EJ T QM B Z T 5 S B EF 4 U B OET T IPQQJ OH & OU FS U B J ONFOU G PS B M M U IF G B NJ M Z 'PS U J D LFU T D BM M PS WJ T J U XXX S PZ BM OPS G PM LT IPX D P VL

Head for the Beach

Plan your getaway with Norfolk Hideaways, we have 200 coastal cottages to choose from, for that weekend hideaway, family break or boutique style escape, with live booking and lots of photographs of each property on our website, www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk, youโ re sure to discover your ideal coastal holiday retreat!

30 the best of Norfolk

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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 Walsingham 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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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 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 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

BLAKENEY BOOK FAIR DECEMBER 32 the best of Norfolk

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 great family holiday destination. 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 daytrippers 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 Michelin-starred food. If a picnic on the beach is what you fancy head up high to Blakeney Delicatessen. You will find a wonderful array of freshly-baked 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.

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paintings sculpture ceramics

PICTURES â&#x20AC;¢ SCULPTURE â&#x20AC;¢ GLASS â&#x20AC;¢ JEWELLERY 4 The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7AL Tel: 01263 740013

$ 3 & " 1 5) * 0 7 5 & 0 ( ' 3 * " 11 . 3) 0 : % 6 ] HBSZ! HBSZKPIOOPSN BO DPN

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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. 34 the best of Norfolk

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! 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. 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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First of The Light, Peter Wileman PROI

Only ten minutes from Holt, we are a modern gallery showing predominantly art inspired by nature. Our celebrated artists come from all over the UK, and as well as originals, we show prints, sculpture and glassware. Like all the shops in Cley, we are open every day. Morning Forest, Bullfinches, Rachel Lockwood

We also publish & sell books, including our brand new beautiful Scribblers.

Kate Barclay's award-winning images can be viewed or purchased online at: www.katebarclay.co.uk Her work can be viewed at Black Sheep Ltd, 9 Penfold St, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6ET where she has a permanent and changing exhibition. Kate also runs one day photography workshops â&#x20AC;&#x201C; visit: www.landscapephotographyworkshops.co.uk Kate can be contacted on: 01603 920538 or 07939 937914 email: kate@katebarclay.co.uk www.katebarclay.co.uk

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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.

36 the best of Norfolk

In the fashion arena, Anna, Nicholsons, Francois Bouttier and Dragonfly are four 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 Anna and Morston Town and Country for good quality country wear. 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 are the variety of art galleries, ranging from the Red Dot Gallery with its eclectic collection of contemporary work, the recently opened Jeremy Barlow Fine Art and 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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be creatively inspired… OSKA MASAI SAHARA SANDWICH OLSEN OUT OF EXILE to name a few Two floors brimming with fashion and accessories In-house styling and free consultations.

we are inspired by our love of colour, unusual prints and interesting fabrics so you will always find something here that is completely unique to you… Open Monday to Saturday – 10am to 5pm. Bank Holidays – 10.30am to 4.30pm Nicholsons | 33 High Street | Holt | NR25 6BN Tel: 01263 711230

www.nicholsonsuk.com

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Butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Holt Festival, held from July 21 - 27 in 2013, 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

NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY GALA JUNE | HOLT FESTIVAL JULY NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY BEER FESTIVAL JULY 38 the best of Norfolk

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.

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ADINI • INSIDE OUT • AMARI TULCHAN CAPRI • POPPY • VIZ A VIZ POMODORO • MARBLE • YEST

Adini’s largest UK Stockist Fabulous choice and amazing colours “Clothes you’ll love to wear” Opening hours 10.30am – 4.30pm Monday to Saturday Unit 4 Appleyard Holt NR25 6AR 01263 711155

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SIX APPLEYARD HAIR SALON

o u t d o o r l i v i ng 4 Albert Street, Holt, Nor folk NR25 6HX 01263 711572 sales@plumnor folk.co.uk www.plumnor folk.co.uk

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

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

WE LOVE WHAT WE DO Telephone: 01263 711911

www.sixappleyardholt.co.uk

Lots of lovely little things, shabby chic and country chic gifts to treat yourself, friends or relatives. Gift ranges from local handmade crafts, jewellery, vintage signs, plus lots more. www.fudgydoocountrystyle.co.uk Upstairs at Dotties. Holiday cottage accommodation above the gift shop on two floors. Sleeping up to six people. www.upstairsatdotties.co.uk 22 Bull Street Holt NR25 6HP 01263 478634

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Victoria Goss – Tucked away behind Shirehall Plain, in Bull Street is this pretty, little blue shop where you can be sure of a friendly welcome. The attractive Georgian town of Holt was the childhood home of Kay Loombe who now owns Victoria Goss at 7 Bull Street, just a few yards up the road from the house where she grew up. “My dream of owning a shop dates back many years, but raising my family was always more important until four years ago when I was finally able to commit the time to the business. I wanted to sell beautiful, natural products in vintage styles so I named the shop ‘Victoria Goss’ after my grandmother and it now seems very appropriate as many of the things I sell have more than a touch of yesteryear about them. “A course in garment design and manufacture in 1990 gave me a working knowledge of textiles, how they feel against the skin, how well they wash and stand up to wear and tear and this has

been invaluable in choosing the high quality pure cotton ladies and children’s nightwear that we sell. For little ones, in particular, cotton is such a wonderful fabric as it is cool and comfortable to wear, washes well and, being so receptive to dyes, it can be printed in such fun colours and designs. “Mindful of the wastage that occurs in cotton manufacture we are delighted to offer a stunning selection of gift-wrap papers that are made from unwanted cotton fibres. They are hand screenprinted using vibrant water-soluble inks and then decorated with touches of glitter making them quite exceptional – beautiful, natural and recycled! “I probably should have been an alchemist as I really love the idea of the process whereby natural materials, like cotton, can be magically transformed

into useful artefacts and our ranges of natural soaps, bath melts and salts are typical of this. They are made by hand using only natural ingredients such as olive oil, shea butter, Dead Sea salt and essential oils for fragrance. They give the shop a wonderful scent as you walk in but, far more importantly, they are kind to skin, contain no unpleasant chemicals and are a real pleasure to use. I know Granny would have enjoyed these even if she might have been a bit surprised to find one in ‘Gin & Tonic’ fragrance! “One of my top tips for shopping enthusiasts on a visit to North Norfolk is a morning stroll around Holt’s delightfully quirky streets and yards, there are many lovely independent shops here to browse, especially Victoria Goss which can be found just a short walk down the road from the Albert Street car park on the left-hand side.”

Victoria Goss 7 Bull Street Holt NR25 6HR. Telephone: 01263 711627 info@victoriagoss.co.uk | www.victoriagoss.co.uk

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HOPPERS

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ESCAPE THE STRESSES OF EVERYDAY LIFE AND BE ENCHANTED BY THE NEW ‘MUST VISIT’ DESTINATION IN HOLT - HOPPERS YARD. YOU CAN BROWSE IN IT’S EXCITING MIX OF SHOPS THEN TAKE TEA IN THE FOLLY TEAROOM OR IT’S GARDEN WHERE VINTAGE ROMANCE WILL SURROUND YOU. WE WELCOME YOU TO SOAK UP THE ATMOSPHERE OF WHAT WE BELIEVE IS A UNIQUE AND SPECIAL PLACE.

Hoppers Yard, Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6LN - Telephone - 01263 713569

Fabrics and Paints

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MORSTON town & country

Morston Town & Country Clothing 9 Shirehall Plain, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HT Telephone: 01263 713545 nikola@morstoncountrysports.co.uk

Morston Country Sports 10-12 Bull Street, Holt Norfolk NR25 6HP Telephone: 01263 713932

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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 icecream 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 44 the best of 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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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. 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. 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 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 cafes and restaurants, gives visitors the chance to sample the

famous Cromer Crab or a good oldfashioned 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. 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 1/2 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. 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.

THE CROMER AND SHERINGHAM CRAB AND LOBSTER FESTIVAL 17 – 19 MAY COMER CARNIVAL 17 – 23 AUGUST CROMER & SHERINGHAM ARTS FESTIVAL (FILM AND PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS) 25 OCTOBER – 3 NOVEMBER 46 the best of Norfolk

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Virginia Court Hotel Open all year round, the Virginia Court Hotel is one of the best independently owned hotels in Cromer, offering stylish accommodation within a converted Edwardian Club House where all the rooms are unique in size and layout. Located in a quiet tree-lined avenue that is centrally located and an easy walk to Cromer beach, Cromer Pier (with its Seaside Special show) and the town centre it’s a great place to stay to explore North Norfolk. Its restaurant, which is open to nonresidents for evening meals, offers a full a la carte menu serving local daily Cromer Crab specials (when in season) and an abundance of Norfolk-sourced dishes.

All bedrooms feature modern en-suites with great power showers, as well as comfortable beds with hypoallergenic four season duvets and pillows to ensure a perfect night’s sleep. Within the rooms you’ll find fair trade teas and coffees together with flat screen TV’s & DVD players. The hotel benefits from a spacious garden and outdoor seating, and it’s here that afternoon teas are served in its

warm ‘suntrap’. Additionally there’s a large free car park, free Wi-Fi and a relaxing lounge with bar. Knowledgeable staff are committed to providing high quality service and are always on hand to help with planning daytrips locally or further afield. With their three star silver accolade award, coveted Visit England Breakfast Award (won for the past three years) this is the highest rated hotel in Cromer.

9 Cliff Avenue Cromer Norfolk NR27 0AN 01263 512398 | www.virginiacourt.co.uk

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Central and South Norfolk

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Central and south Norfolk is ripe with uniquely charming market towns, such as bustling Diss overlooking a pretty mere, and Swaffham with its fine Georgian architecture. Capitalising on its location in the Brecks, an area rich in natural beauty and bountiful food production, Swaffham hosts a thriving Saturday market and popular farmers markets on the first and third Sundays of the months (perfect for picking up some locally made cider in autumn, or any variety of heritage apples). Amidst Breckland’s expansive forest and heathland there is something of a locally produced revolution, which means area market towns are well stocked with delicious cheeses, preserves, baked goods and ales made within a few miles. This self-contained spirit also is evident in Dereham, with its Tuesday and Friday markets. Don’t miss the nearby Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse museum (autumn events include Apple Day and a heavy horse farm demonstration) or make a day of it by taking the Mid-Norfolk Railway from Wymondham, a town well worth a visit in its own right, boasting a remarkable, 900-year-old abbey, a pleasant high street and a lovely train station café. Stretching across mid-Norfolk is Thetford Forest where, exploring one of its numerous trails, you could be 2,000 miles or 2,000 years away. There is no better time to appreciate the timeless serenity of the landscape than autumn, when turning leaves cast an amber-hued light against the deep calm of evergreen forests. Red deer can be spotted grazing the heather-stubbled ancient heathland and patient bird watchers may be rewarded with a glimpse of a hawfinch or a nightjar. But beyond its abundant wildlife, Thetford Forest is alive with history – from the Blood Hill Bronze Age barrow to the medieval lost village of Stanton, the country house grandeur of Brandon Park House or Lynford Hall to a memorial to D-Day heroes who trained near High Ash. With trails catering to every ability and interest, Thetford Forest draws keen cyclists, horse riders, fans of its adrenaline-driven Go Ape! adventure course, and those who appreciate rare flora and fauna (the eagle-eyed may spy the remnants of a centuries-old lost garden at Zig Zag Covert, or the Scarce Emerald dragonfly). The impeccably maintained paths – many with imaginative play areas – are inviting to all, and several spots have excellent catering facilities. From the whimsical to the awe-inspiring, sculptures and art installations appear in the most unlikely places, and special events – such as woodland craft and foraging workshops – are a highlight of the autumn and throughout the year. Details of facilities, events, maps and more can be found at: www.forestry.gov.uk/thetfordforestpark.

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Coming this Summer... Adventure play, natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way

1 mile from Fakenham, NR21 0LN T 01328 851465 www.pensthorpe.com

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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

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.

FAKENHAM WALKING FESTIVAL JUNE | PENSTHORPE GARDEN AND FOOD FAIR JUNE the best of Norfolk 51

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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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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 brecktemporary fields allowed to revert back to heath. 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

EASTER TRAIL AT OXBURGH HALL MARCH/APRIL | NORDIC WALKING AT OXBURGH HALL APRIL CYCLING AND WALKING FESTIVAL JUNE | FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER VISUAL ARTS FESTIVAL OCTOBER 54 the best of Norfolk

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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, 2 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 countryside. 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, 2 stylish one bedroom apartments. 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. On the menu you might see Muntjac and dapple cheese burger with beef dripping chips or

steamed chestnut mushroom suet pudding with baby leeks and goats cheese curd. CoCoes' café deli sits at the hotel’s entrance and is open most days 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 & cookies, light bites, all day breakfast, lunch and tasty take out. There is also a monthly Tapas night, usually the first Wednesday of the month. Visit www.strattonshotel.com for more information.

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

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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. 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!

Bluebell shopping Centre

Reeve’s Parlour Restaurant

Reeve’s Larder

10 shops and 8 market stalls: including stained glass, fashion, crafts and giftware, books, doll’s house miniatures and freshly baked cakes.

Sample our delicious food relaxing in our beautiful conservatory, where we serve hot and cold lunches and afternoon teas (locally sourced produce).

Offering locally sourced beer, wine, cheese, chutneys, fresh fish, meats and bread.

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Complete with pond to sit and relax by and a children’s play area.

Tel. 01362 688 387

The Larder

Beautiful landscaped Millennium Gardens

Garden

The Bawdeswell Garden Centre, Norwich Road, Bawdeswell, Dereham Norfolk NR20 4RZ

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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NORWICH

Norwich has a myriad of out-of-the-way discoveries to make, but looming above them all are two spectacular cathedrals, the castle and the city hall clock tower, creating an impressive skyline for such a relatively small city. Norwich Cathedral is magnificent whatever the season, but when traditional Christmas hymns soar to its vaulted ceilings and snow blankets the tranquil labyrinth, there can be few places to match its magic. Making the most of its attributes – its towering spire, the largest monastic cloister in England, meticulous gardens giving way to the flint water gate at the River Wensum – the cathedral presents an array of ways to ring in the season, including candlelit concerts, seasonal art exhibits and children’s activities. For more information, visit: www.cathedral.org.uk. Even when no special events are being held, winter is an ideal time to take in the cathedral and its peaceful surroundings, with a hot drink from the Refectory restaurant or one of the many superb cafes nearby. Take a tour inside the Norman structure and wander around the monastic buildings or squint to see the peregrine falcons nesting high up the 250-foot spire. Through the cathedral’s impressive main gateways, Tombland and Elm Hill offer restaurants and coffee houses galore, book and antique shops, boutiques, and more than a smattering of other historically significant buildings. Or stroll through the sprawling cathedral close to reach two of Norwich’s most delightful pubs, the Red Lion and the Adam & Eve, both well placed on the river.

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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 and there are many other lively venues such as Norwich Arts Centre and Norwich Puppet Theatre which are always worth a look. 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 & Drink Festival, which takes place in the autumn, grows from year to year and 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. A wide variety of 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. the best of Norfolk 61

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Winsor Bishop the jewellers Winsor Bishop is the quintessential jewellers shop and was established in 1834 and has been situated at its present site for over 170 years. Each generation of owners has strived and succeeded in making it the leading independent jewellers in the region. Since expanding in 2011 Winsor Bishop continues to offer the finest jewellery within the county with a bespoke design service your dreams can truly become a reality. With all the top watch brands housed in our dedicated sales area Winsor Bishop boasts a portfolio which is amongst the best outside of London. This is evident through the many long standing partnerships including Patek Philippe. Patek Philippe is known for constantly expanding the boundaries of the watch making art. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essence is based on ten values that have been guiding Patek Philippe since its foundation in 1839; independence, tradition, innovation, heritage, emotion, quality, value, rarity, aesthetics and service.

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Patek Philippe Men’s Annual Calendar Nautilus Ref. 5726/1A in stainless steel with black dial and stainless steel bracelet, £31,990

Patek Philippe Ladies’ Twenty~4® Ref. 4910/10A-001 in stainless steel with ‘Forever Black’ dial and stainless steel bracelet, £8,780

Patek Philippe Men’s Calatrava Ref. 5123R in rose gold with silvery opaline dial and matt dark brown alligator strap £18,060

For Men...

For Ladies...

The Calatrava, perhaps one of Patek Philippe’s most emblematic collections remains as popular today since its launch in 1932 and is desired by watch connoisseurs the world over. Models range from the basic Ref. 5119G model and include the most recently launched Ref. 5123R, presented in rose gold with the manually wound calibre 215 P S visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The timepiece was inspired by a late 1950s model – part of the Patek Philippe Museum Collection. Another introduction this year was to the men’s Nautilus range. Launched in 1976 the Nautilus became instant favourite casually elegant watches with their classic porthole inspired design with octagonal shaped bezel. The Ref. 5711/1A was presented this year with a new silvery coloured dial. The timepiece, water resistant to 120m and case diameter of 40mm appears with blackened gold hands and applied hour markers with white luminescent coating for night reading. The Nautilus Annual Calendar in stainless steel was launched with two dial versions in black or silvery white. Also resistant to 120m, the movement can be seen through the crystal case back.

Since its launch, the Twenty~4® has established itself as a contemporary icon of feminine elegance as a modern interpretation of the Gondolo timepiece. The Twenty~4® was created for the refined, active woman of today who seeks a watch that reflects her style and may be worn on all occasions. Each model reflects perfection in craftsmanship, and the curved silhouette of the case is a loving caress for the feminine wrist. Whether in cool steel, warm rose gold, or white gold, each model is complimented with Top Wesselton diamonds that adorn the bezel, the case, and/or the bracelet. The crown of each Twenty~4® is studded with an onyx or a diamond solitaire. The gold collection includes precious small-size models and breathtaking pieces of high jewellery to compliment the range. A line of Twenty~4® rings and earrings echo the watch’s collection, forming a sophisticated ensemble that will compliment every taste.

Patek Philippe Ladies’ Moon Phase Ref. 4968R in rose gold with mother-of-pearl dial and shiny taupe alligator strap £39,380

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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’, weavers from the Netherlands, came to

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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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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

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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

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Sonkai Bespoke Jewellery makes and produces bespoke handmade commissions as well as stocking unique collections from designers around the world. Sonkai is a family run business, owned by Craig and Sara, which has been open since 2006. Craig completed his diploma in South Africa in 1999 and is a highly skilled, experienced goldsmith and stone setter – having worked extensively with silver, white and yellow gold, platinum and palladium. Craig works within the workshop based in the shop and is often available to advise on jewellery purchases, as he says: “We are a manufacturing and retail jewellers, which means we make and produce bespoke commissions for our customers and our own handmade pieces for the store, which we sell alongside other unique collections from designers around the world. We will only buy jewellery; gemstones and diamonds from trusted sources that are

conflict free and sustain fair working practices and environments. “It is our preference for any jewellery that we buy in to be hand finished and preferably by a designer that will also offer a bespoke service for their pieces, should you wish to have something tailored to suit your own special requirements, whether this is a certain length chain or particular coloured stone. “As we have an on-site workshop we are able to offer a full and direct repair, alterations and commissions service. We have no need to post anything away other than to the London Assay office for hallmarking. All of our work stays safely on site and you are able to talk directly with the person working on your jewellery to ensure you are getting exactly what you want each time.

“We strive to be open, honest, approachable and friendly. You will not walk in to find a wall of suits staring at you from behind our counter and we will do our utmost to make you feel welcome and relaxed. We understand that choosing the right piece of jewellery to be cherished and loved for many years can be a daunting task and we are here to help. We pride ourselves in the quality of our work and service to our customers. “The really special thing about the store is that customers can stand, literally next to the bench and watch the jewellers in action. This is part of what makes us so different from the rest. We have everything on site and are happy for you to come in and browse, watch us work and get the best advice to help you find the perfect item.”

Sonkai Bespoke Jewellery | 14-16 Dove Street Norwich NR2 1DE | 01603 625533 | sonkai.co.uk

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The heart of shopping in Norwich

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Located next to Norwich Castle in the heart of the City centre, Castle Mall has five floors of great shopping, ample parking and an eight screen cinema. Find big name brands such as TK Maxx, New Look and Peacocks as well as La Senza, Boots and Argos. There is also a wide variety of independent stores such as The Tea Junction, Gifted 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 in the Food Court, 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 an NHS Walk-in-Centre. Castle 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 the second, smaller car park on Farmer’s Avenue. Park after 6pm 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 Castle Mall Norwich. the best of Norfolk 69

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N ORW I C H

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.

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Shop, meet, dine, enjoy. . . you’ll have a field day at Chapelfield Norwich

Chapelfield Shopping Centre in the heart of Norwich first flung open its stylish doors in 2005 and since then has welcomed over 60 million shoppers to its fresh, bright and airy malls. Over the past seven years it has become THE place to shop, meet, dine and enjoy in the region and has made Norwich one the of top ten shopping destinations in the UK. Chapelfield’s fashion offer is fabulous with a real A-Z of top stores: from edgy ARK to style-leader Zara; there’s a host of top designer brands at House of

Fraser; California cool at Hollister Co and a massive choice of high street fashion favourites including H&M, French Connection, Mango, Monsoon, River Island, Superdry and many more. In addition to stylish fashion, there’s a great choice of accessories including top shoe shops and a sparkling array of jewellers including Beaverbrooks, Pandora, Thomas Sabo and Nova Silver. Chapelfield is also home to the Apple Store and other favourites such as Disney Store, H&M Kids, Clas Ohlson, Boux Avenue and HMV.

Many visitors come to Chapelfield to enjoy it’s impressive range of restaurants and cafes. The centre has everything from coffee shops for a mid-shopping break, to takeaway options, quick café snacks and special restaurant treats. Café Rouge, Carluccio’s, ASK Italian and YO! Sushi are the latest to open at the centre, complementing favourites like Wagamama, Giraffe, Costa, McDonald’s and KFC. More than shopping and great food... Chapelfield hosts family friendly entertainment throughout the year. Annual highlights include a Spring Fashion Show, regular style and beauty events and school holiday entertainment for children such as crafts, puppet shows, games and competitions. Chapelfield is situated close to Norwich bus station, the Theatre Royal and the Forum. It’s easily accessible for Park & Ride visitors; has cycle parking areas and a 1000 space car park. Norwich train station is a 25 minute walk or quick bus ride away. For more information about Chapelfield, including special events and customer offers and promotions, visit www.chapelfield.co.uk the best of Norfolk 71

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Norwich Events 2013 Here are the main scheduled events taking place in Norwich and surrounding areas: Spring International Literary Festival University of East Anglia. January – May The East Anglian Game & Country Fair Norfolk Showground. 27 – 28 April The Broads Outdoor Festival Whitlingham Broad and other Broads venues (Norfolk). 14 – 19 May Norfolk & Norwich Festival Norwich and Norfolk. 10 – 26 May Norfolk Open Studios Over 200 local artists open their studios. 26 May – 10 June City of Ale Festival Around Norwich. May – June The 2013 Norfolk Polo Festival – July 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. Shakespeare Festival – July Over four days the Cathedral Cloisters play host to an outdoor programme of theatre from William Shakespeare GB Theatre Company. This year audiences will be treated to performances of The Merchant of Venice and A Midsummer Night's Dream. Heritage Open Days – September Celebrating Norwich’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to events and interesting properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Norfolk Food Festival 1 September – 6 October Norwich Film Festival – April Norwich Body Art Festival – August World Village Market at Norwich 29 March – 1 April

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Café society Norwich, which once boasted a pub for every day of the year, has fallen for the café scene, cup, spoon and saucer. Local coffee, tea and cake enthusiast Laura Potts leads the tour. Photography by David Drake.

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Serious coffee connoisseurs and aficionados of continental-style café culture might not expect to find either in Norwich – indeed, a decade ago they’d be lucky to find anything approximating a cappuccino in the city’s cobbled lanes. These days, however, Norwich is awash with independent coffee houses and tea rooms of every description and in every direction. Such is the variety, in fact, that without devoting some serious forethought, the search for the perfect cuppa and cake could prove overwhelming. And whilst you might not go far wrong, with a little help you can go oh so very right. Let’s start with the premise that you’re eager to begin the day with a robust, flavourful shot of ambition. Norwich is a fascinating city to explore, especially if you get an energetic start care of some of the premier coffee experts who are lending their knowledge and talents to the area. First stop, then, has to be the Little Red Roaster, either at its original, bustling location on the Norwich Market or at its more recent, sit-and-read-thepaper locals’ favourite on Grove Street, just south of the city centre. Little Red Roaster proprietor Darren Groom returned to Norwich a decade ago with a mission to provide the kind of unique, top-quality blends he had become accustomed to whilst living in Sydney, Australia. And his hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed: ask anyone in Norwich who gives a bean about their coffee – Groom and the Little Red Roaster are the business. Groom is happy to take the time helping customers choose the perfect antidote to an early start, but he doesn’t just know his coffee coordinates; in sharing his passion for the finest

beans he can source, Groom has helped kick-start a coffee revolution in Norwich. “We’re always trying to evolve and change, and I don’t think that ever stops,” said Groom, who, in his spare time, analyses water quality to make sure his customers are getting the best possible flavour out of a cup. Is this, well, slightly obsessive and a bit weird? Perhaps, but then you wouldn’t be hunting out the Little Red Roaster if your idea of coffee is some instant granules accented with crunchy flakes of Norfolk’s finest limescale deposits. Follow your nose to the heart of the marketplace to find the Little Red Roaster’s efficient but friendly stall, grab a spritely Little Red and wander through Britain’s largest open market. Alternatively, pull up a stool or snag an alfresco table at the Grove Street café, where the chirpy red décor and cheery baristas make the short trek worth the effort. For another laid-back neighbourhood spot, a quick jaunt down Dereham Road to Nelson Street brings you to the newest addition to Norwich’s coffee club, the Reading Rooms. As to be expected, books feature prominently but the coffee is the show stealer, while the menu puts an inventive spin on cooked breakfasts and evening specials. Owners Paul and Francesca GloverDarke spent years sampling coffee and snagging ideas around the world, waiting for the ideal location to become available in Norwich. Their patience paid off – the stylishly comfortable décor and sociable environment make lingering over a generous brownie and an expertly presented latte feel like an indulgent visit to a friend’s house.

A friend who is very picky about the quality of what they serve, welcomes everyone – grown-up or small – with equal enthusiasm, and doesn’t mind you hanging about for ages with one of their books. (Added bonus: free parking). Back in the city centre, few places offer a more warming start to the day than the carefully crafted drinks and made-on-the-spot cakes at the Cherryleaf Coffee House, at the top of St. Giles Street (look for the Victorian gothic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, then head toward the city hall clock tower). Owner Emmeline Johns sources the finest teas and knows her Columbian from her Kenyan roasts, but when it comes to food, the emphasis is most definitely on local ingredients, including artisan bread made by Pye Baker of Norwich. In warmer months, look out for Johns and her lemonade/ice cream tricycle. Sunday brunch is a must – and what better way to start the week? If tea is more your thing, Norwich has you covered. Saunter up Timber Hill (home to Tea And Little Cakes, also worth a look), past John Lewis and continue down Ber Street to the Tea Lounge. Through the café’s enticingly steamy windows, your efforts will be rewarded with a choice of looseleaf teas, homemade cakes and vegetarian soups, and the best bagels this side of Brick Lane (from whence the doughy globes of bagelly perfection are sourced). After a decade, the “modern, independent tea room selling oldfashioned cakes” that owners Dina Doerfel and Annemarie Stirling envisioned is still as soothing as ever.

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Heading back into the city centre with Norwich Castle looming above, tea and coffee options are in every direction. The elegant Assembly House on Theatre Street, Caley’s Cocoa Café in the ancient Guildhall, and the ecoconscious café at The Greenhouse on Bethel Street present a range of possibilities. In the Lanes, the area’s reputation for all things trendy and independent is evident at the uber-hip Frank’s Bar, on Bedford Street. Veering more toward a night spot, Frank’s still does a mean flat white to pair with an evolving choice of cakes and light meals. Frank’s William Morris wallpaper is a nice touch, but is downright minimalist compared to the kitsch landslide that is Biddy’s Tea Room, on Upper Goat Lane, where the flowery Morris wall coverings are the most understated thing on two floors of retro madness. That’s not to say it isn’t charming, original or worth dawdling over a high 76 the best of Norfolk

tea of legendary proportions – the furnishing may scream post-war mending and making do, but there is no austerity when it comes to platters piled high with finger sandwiches, curiously flavoured scones and cakes (lavender or Turkish delight), and tea, of course. When Biddy’s owner Charlie Buchan’s love of vintage china, soft furnishings and peculiar taxidermy could no longer be contained in her own home, it found an instant fan club of likeminded souls (in other words, it’s advisable to book ahead). Any number of cafés, delis and coffee houses along the Lanes vie for the coffee lover’s consideration, including Strangers Coffee House, Mustard Coffee Bar, No. 33, the Iron House, Appleyard & Co. and the global deli delights on offer alongside drinks at Clark & Ravenscroft. And don’t miss Wilkinson’s of Norwich Tea Coffee Merchants, on Lobster Lane, crammed

full of beans, leaves and pretty pottery from near and far. The Lanes are a veritable café wonderland, each one lovingly distinctive and sipworthy. But take a deep breath: once you reach St. Andrews Street, it’s another level of café culture. Branching left off St. Andrews Street is leafy St. Benedicts Street, a riot of repurposed flint churches and vintage clothing and music shops. This artsy ambiance lends itself well to two of Norwich’s most-loved independents: House Café and its kitschy furniture and tasty cakes (try the blueberry with violet-flavoured icing); and the Bicycle Shop, where if you aren’t drawn in by the whimsical window displays, surely you won’t be able to resist its eclectic menu. As comfortable presenting itself as a chilled-out coffee house by day and a cosy, intimate bar by night, the Bicycle Shop is a versatile gem well worth a stop at any hour.

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At the other end of St. Andrews Street – before it forks left toward Tombland or right into the heart of the city – some less obvious options still deserve a peek, namely: Expresso Café a few steps down on St. George’s Street, for drinks and delicious sandwiches of the locally sourced variety; and The Dining Rooms at Cinema City. Certainly, you’re thinking, a relaxed coffee is not to be found in the vicinity of a cinema – but with an elegantly vaulted bar area and a tucked-away covered courtyard, this is no ordinary picture house. Finally, with a sprint (if you’ve been on the double espressos) or a ‘bimble’ (if you consist more of cake than caffeine) to the finish, no Norwich coffee/tea crawl would be complete without visits to what are arguably the oldest, smallest and most tucked-away treasures, all of which happen to be dotted near the splendid Norwich Cathedral and Tombland area.

At the top of the city’s most picturesque street, the cobbled Elm Hill, sits the equally pretty, thatched Britons Arms Coffee House, where sisters Sue Skipper and Gilly Mixer have made the most of Norfolk produce for 30-odd years. Settle in by an inglenook or unwind upstairs in the flower-filled terrace. Or carry down Elm Hill to the tiny but perfectly formed Tea House, home of – what else? – before scrunching in for some friendly banter at The Window. Owner Hayley Draper “discovered the sacred world of coffee roasters and brewing in Melbourne, Australia,” but don’t expect a sermon on what constitutes an acceptable espressofroth balance (unless you ask). Neither pretentious nor conventional, The Window illustrates that good things do indeed come in small packages. In 2010, Draper opened what’s been deemed the smallest café in the UK, and her intense appreciation for coffee and clever use of

space – one small table and a few benches and chairs – have won rave reviews, loyal customers and visitors from afar. And if there’s no time (or space) for a mardle, grab some beans or a locally made pastry for a lovely stroll along the river. “In my shop people are forced to sit next to each other, so strangers are becoming friends every day,” said Draper, whose ‘coffee as therapy’ ethos has clearly struck a chord. Dash in and escape with a takeaway if you like, but there’s no better way to get a feel for Norwich than to sit awhile in The Window. So there you are – a cuppa for every taste, style, mood and occasion. Norwich coffee lovers have never had it so good.

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East Norfolk and The Broads When crisp, frosty mornings give way to springtime mists, there may be no more peaceful place than the Norfolk Broads. Obscured by reeds the height of a house, a mirror-smooth waterway will appear under enormous skies of sherbet tones, the silence broken only by the clattering of wings. Otters dip and slide when startled by a passing Broads cruiser or dinghy, which from afar appear to skim through a landscape unchanged for generations. For solitude it’s hard to beat Strumpshaw Fen, where wildlife thrives alongside an idiosyncratic herd of Highland cows (they’re good for the ecosystem, apparently). But pick any part of the Broads and you won’t be disappointed, whether for a gentle yomp or a rollicking boat ride. For livelier pursuits, start in Wroxham to hire any manner of watercraft, or grab a coffee whilst strolling through the charming towns of Aylsham or Reepham. Children will enjoy the Bure Valley Steam Railway, meeting animals at Wroxham Barns or Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, or the whimsical Bewilderwood. Look for woods carpeted with delicate snowdrops on a drive to Horsey Windpump, where you can take a tour if you don’t mind steep stairs, or bundle up for a brisk walk along one of the many fine beaches – Horsey Gap, Winterton or Sea Palling are local favourites – to chance upon sleeping seals. Even if the wind gets up and a chill is in the air, an invigorating meander along this stretch of coast is the perfect excuse for settling down to an afternoon at the pub, basking in the glow of an open fire and a fine pint of Norfolk bitter.

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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 entry to the Hobart Gallery is free (April - December). 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. 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 with beautiful gardens, and another excellent award-winning pub, the Walpole Arms at Itteringham.

AYLSHAM SHOW AUGUST | LAST NIGHT OF THE BLICKLING PROMS AUGUST BURE VALLEY RAILWAY STEAM GALA SEPTEMBER | AYLSHAM FOOD FESTIVAL OCTOBER the best of Norfolk 83

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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.

84 the best of Norfolk

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. The station also houses a small museum, tearoom and has cycles to hire. 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.

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Curious to know if you have something of value? It could pay to talk to Bonhams. 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 the international auction market from right on your doorstep. Located in the historic market town of Reepham, we offer free, confidential and without obligation valuations on items you may be considering selling at auction, together with formal valuations for probate and insurance, direct from our Norfolk office. For further information or to make an appointment, please contact us. 01603 871 443 norfolk@bonhams.com Sir Alfred James Munnings P.R.A., R.W.S. (British, 1879-1959) The Haymakers Sourced locally and sold for £112,000 in London, November 2012.

International Auctioneers and Valuers - bonhams.com/norfolk Prices shown include buyer’s premium. Details can be found at bonhams.com

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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!

8TH ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS EVENT AT ST CATHERINE'S CHURCH LUDHAM VILLAGE MAY GREEN FESTIVAL AT FAIRHAVEN WOODLAND AND WATER GARDEN JUNE OPEN GARDENS & SCARECROW FESTIVAL AT WINTERTON-ON-SEA JULY | GORLESTON CLIFF TOP FESTIVAL JULY HELMSBY HERRING FESTIVAL AUGUST | SEPTEMBER FESTIVAL OF BOWLS AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER OUT THERE FESTIVAL AT ST. GEORGE'S PARK SEPTEMBER | GREAT YARMOUTH MARITIME FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 86 the best of Norfolk

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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

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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!

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ROYS K & t Z K y , D

7 super stores in 1 village For 115 years we’ve served Wroxham and the surrounding area with everything it needs from local, quality produce to ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞƌ ďƌĂŶĚƐ͘ zŽƵ ĐĂŶ ĐŽŶƟ ŶƵĞ ƚŽ ƌĞůǇ ŽŶ ƵƐ ƚŽ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ 1,000’s of quality products for your home, garden and family, at great prices. So come and take a closer look at by shopping locally. Roys and save money

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Roys supermarket is full of local produce, with over 1,000 lines supplied to us from an ever growing local supplier base.

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Childrens World has a massive range of clothing for children of all ages, from newborn up to 13, along with nurserywear, schoolwear and shoes.

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Roys garden centre caters for all your gardening needs; you ĐĂŶ Į ŶĚ ƐĞĞĚƐ͕ ƉůĂŶƚƐ͕ ƚŽŽůƐ͕ ĨƵƌŶŝƚƵƌĞ͕ ƉĞƚ ĐĂƌĞ ĂŶĚ ŵƵĐŚ much more.

What’s in the store? 1. Food Hall 2. Department Store 3. Roys Toys 4. Garden Centre 5. Children’s World 6. DIY Centre 7. Roys Zone 8. Customer Services

9. Florists 10. Save ‘n’ Wear ϭϭ͘ DĐ ŽŶĂůĚƐ 12. Car Parks 13. Coach Park 14. Riverside Park 15. Pharmacy

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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!

WROXHAM FESTIVAL AT HOVETON JUNE | BURE VALLEY RAILWAY STEAM GALA SEPTEMBER the best of Norfolk 89

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While today the 63 shallow lakes and the Rivers Yare, Bure, Waveney, Ant, Thurne and Chet are teeming with human as well as bird life in summer, there are still little escape routes known to the more intrepid explorer that allow a secret life to continue unchallenged by the 21st century. Conservation thrives, enabling animals, insects, birds and flowers to reproduce themselves endlessly as they have for centuries and the charm of the old buildings lining the rivers to flourish. The Broads has a wonderful mixture of open water, woodland, fen and marsh and are a National Park, managed by the Broads Authority who have been

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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!

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

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2013, 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 handbags, 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. The Apple Shop sells both apple juices and ciders and the Fudge Shop has lovely naughty treats! Youngsters, of course, love Junior Farm where the super heated indoor play area is ideal for inclement weather. Children can collect eggs, feed the

92 the best of Norfolk

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 merrygo-round followed by some candyfloss. Finally, visitors should not miss the Wroxham Barns Restaurant (voted best Food & Drink destination in Norfolk) 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 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 (try spotting our resident family of herons), 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. 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 Daily river trip timetable operates between Easter to 2nd November. Evening Music Cruises available Wednesday and Thursday evenings during July & August. Santa Cruises available throughout December. Dayboats available 1st March – 2nd November. 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 – and a few funny stories, too! All of the boats boast licensed bars, offer light 94 the best of Norfolk

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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West Norfolk The unassuming beauty of west Norfolk may be overlooked by visitors drawn to the county’s more celebrated regions, but that’s all the more reason to take a hard left at Norwich. Further along the coast and inland (it’s true!) await hidden gems of quiet splendour – and that’s not even taking into account the breath-taking Sandringham Estate. Pick a weekend in late spring and you’re likely to find meadows awash in swaying poppies, or summer brings delicate rows of lavender in varying shades, from dusky blue to richest purple. Norfolk Lavender, at Heacham near Kings Lynn, boasts the country’s most extensive collection of lavender and related products, with an enticing café, garden centre and more. Garden lovers and ramblers won’t want to miss Sandringham’s 60 acres of parkland and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nearby, which encompasses the 12th Century Castle Rising keep and earthworks. Additional ancient mysteries linger at the Lynn Museum, home of the remarkable Seahenge, a 4,000-year-old timber circle. Or visit one of the area’s many impressive stately homes, from Oxburgh Hall, a medieval moated manor house, to the Palladian Holkham and Houghton halls, or the Georgian Peckover House and gardens. Late spring and early summer are also splendid times to visit Hunstanton – or ‘Sunny Hunny’ – with its famous striped cliffs, sandy beaches and rock pools, and boat trips to catch seals playing.

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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 the best of Norfolk 99

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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.

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. Another highlight of the town is the recently opened bespoke Parkour course at Walks Park. It’s only the second in the UK and well worth a visit whatever your ability.

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 | 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 100 the best of Norfolk

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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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Stately Homes and Gardens of Norfolk

HOuGHTOn HAll And GARdenS This year the magnificent art collection of Great Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, is reassembled in its spectacular original setting – the State Rooms at Houghton Hall.

Award-winning 5 acre walled garden, contemporary sculptures, deer park. Open: May 17 – September 29 Wed-Sun (+BH Mons) 11 am-5pm Admission: Gardens only: Adults £8.00, Child (5-16yrs) £3, Family (2+3) £22 Booking advised for House (exhibition): www.houghtonhall.com/houghtonrevisited

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From Russia With Love

Houghton Hall and The Hermitage – An Historic Re-creation May – September 2013

Houghton Hall, one of the finest Palladian Mansions in the country, built by Sir Robert Walpole (1676-1745), Britain’s first Prime Minister, is this year staging a very special exhibition. In 1779 Walpole’s family sold his art collection to Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia. One of eighteenth century Europe’s most famous art collections, it included paintings by Van Dyck, Poussin, Rubens and Rembrandt, which today are part of the extensive holdings of the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia. More than two centuries later, this remarkable collection of masterpieces, rarely seen outside of Russia since that time, will return to Houghton Hall, the Walpole ancestral home in Norfolk. Houghton is now the family seat of Sir Robert Walpole’s direct descendant, the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley. It was designed by the most gifted architects of their day, Colen Campbell and James Gibbs, to house Walpole’s

precious collection of Old Master paintings. Houghton and its magnificent interiors and furnishings, designed by William Kent, are still intact. In 2013 this wonderful collection will be reintegrated into its original setting. Furniture and silver as well as drawings by Kent and works of art from other public and private collections will also be included. In its scale and ambition, this exhibition will be a fitting celebration of the 250th anniversary of Catherine the Great’s accession to the throne and of the long and distinguished history of AngloRussian cultural relations. It truly will offer visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time. The display will include paintings from the English, French, Italian, Flemish and Spanish schools, with masterpieces by Van Dyck, Poussin, Albani, Rembrandt and Murilo and will offer a unique opportunity to revisit an important time in British history; it will pay homage to the key role of this English collection in

The Hermitage, the grand museum established by Catherine the Great. Visitors to the exhibition may also, of course, enjoy Houghton’s other attractions. The Hall is surrounded by parkland, home to a herd of white fallow and exotic deer, the Stable Square houses not only stables but also one of the world’s finest model soldier collections and the restaurant and gift shop. The grounds also boast some wonderful contemporary sculptures including James Turrell’s ‘Skyspace’, ‘Full Moon Circle’ by Richard Long and works by Stephen Cox and Zhang Wang. Meanwhile Houghton’s award-winning five acre walled garden is separated into various ‘rooms’ and also offers a 120 yard herbaceous border, a rose parterre, kitchen garden, statues, glasshouse and fountains, including the beautiful ‘Waterflame’ by Jeppe Hein. For booking details visit houghtonhall.com/houghtonrevisited

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Sandringham 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.

A grand house to tour A stunning Edwardian, Royal retreat 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 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.” 104 the best of Norfolk

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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Holkham Hall

BliCkliNg Hall

FelBrigg Hall

HolkHam 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.

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.

Felbrigg Hall

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.

Blickling Hall

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eaST ruSToN old ViCarage 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 East Ruston Old Vicarage

SHeriNgHam Park 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. Sheringham Park

Oxburgh Hall

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oxBurgH Hall

WalPole WaTer gardeNS

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 neo-Gothic 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.

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

Across the border...

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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, 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 Pan-themed 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. 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. If you are a Benjamin Britten fan, this is a great year to visit Aldeburgh, as it is his centenary year (1913–1976). Britten is inextricably linked with Aldeburgh. He not only lived most of his life there but also created the Aldeburgh Festival and initiated Snape Maltings Concert Hall, now run by Aldeburgh Music (www.aldeburgh.co.uk), who are celebrating the centenary with a major series of concerts and events. The Red House, where Britten and Peter Pears lived from 1957, is open as never before from June 2013; visitors will be able to visit the composer’s studio, learn about his life and work in a major new exhibition, and browse his amazing archive.

ALDEBURGH FESTIVAL JUNE | LATITUDE FESTIVAL JULY | 24TH ALDEBURGH POETRY FESTIVAL NOVEMBER WAYS WITH WORDS SOUTHWOLD LITERATURE FESTIVAL NOVEMBER the best of Norfolk 109

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UFFORD PARK HEALTH & SPA

Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa Looking for somewhere to relax, revitalise or restore? Then look no further than the Ufford Park Spa near Woodbridge in Suffolk. Set in 120 acres of parkland this 90 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 £89pp – 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,

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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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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 the best of Norfolk 111

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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. 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.

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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.”

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

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

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 Great Outdoors

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For anyone with an interest in wildlife The One Stop Nature Shop at Burnham Deepdale is a ‘must visit’ shop. Hailed as arguably Norfolk’s most exciting new shop it offers the visitor just about everything they would want to help them observe the wealth of wildlife found on the Norfolk coast and beyond. There are the usual things like binoculars and telescopes, but the shop goes beyond this, with a huge range of natural history books, DVDs, bird feeders and bird food, hand held and roof mounted weather stations, the latest compact high intensity torches and microscopes. Owner Richard Campey says “I wanted this shop to excite people about the natural world and help them experience getting closer to wildlife. Since opening in December 2011 we have been overwhelmed by the response to the shop. We have the largest display of Microscopes in the UK , and, with the latest advances in digital USB microscopes that simply plug into your

computer, making things big has never been simpler or more affordable”. Recording wildlife is also a theme and the ever popular ‘trigger cameras’ have proved a huge success. Used on television programmes such as Spring and Autumnwatch, these cameras are activated by movement and record stills or video during day and night. Customers have seen foxes, badgers and even otters in their gardens which previously they had no idea where there. Affordable and easy to use these have been the hit of the year. Richard adds, “we welcome everyone to come in and browse, have a chat with us about the latest bird sightings, where to

put your bird feeders, and see some of the newest developments in wildlife observation. If you are thinking of a new pair of binoculars we can show you a wide range to suit your needs and budget in a unhurried and easy to understand way – this is a fun shop, there is no pressure to buy, just come and try”. So from magnifiers to moth traps, binoculars to bird books, trail cameras to telescopes and weather stations to walking poles you’ll be assured a great time when you visit The One Stop Nature Shop. Open every day (except Christmas day) 10am – 5pm

Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale PE31 8FB | 01485 211223 | sales@onestopnature.co.uk

www.onestopnature.co.uk

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The patchwork of habitats along the north Norfolk coastline provides a temporary home to a vast array of wintering birds as well as a permanent home for a smaller selection of specialised breeding birds. Add to that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position facing the Continent, and thus ideally placed to receive large numbers of migrant birds during both spring and autumn passage, there is probably no better place for birdwatching in the UK.

Birds of north Norfolk

Little Egret in flight

Dunlin

Thousands of waders can be found feeding in the rich coastal mud, many of these being passage migrants heading south from as far north as Iceland, including turnstones, black and bartailed godwits, dunlin and curlew. The coastal reedbeds are the preferred habitat of the elusive bittern and water rail, the delightful bearded tit, and many of the breeding marsh harriers within the county. North Norfolk is also a good place to see wintering raptors from northern moorlands, often forming communal roosts in reedbeds and salt marsh. It is also a strong hold for Barn Owls which can be seen regularly quartering fields adjacent to the main coast road.

Coastal grazing marshes attract breeding waders in the shape of redshank, lapwing and avocet, with small numbers of snipe still exhibiting their remarkable 'drumming' display flight over the marshes. In winter this habitat attracts vast numbers of geese including pink-footed geese and darkbellied brent geese, with smaller numbers of European white-fronted geese and usually a few barnacle geese.

Bearded Tit

Barn Owl in flight

Sandy beaches are the place to find ringed plover and oystercatcher in summer, and mobile flocks of sanderling on winter, where they can be seen scurrying to-and-fro along the tide line. In truth, just about any habitat, at any time if the year, can produce rich and varied bird watching in some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the UK.

Turnstone

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Birdwatching... on the north Norfolk coast

photo: Philip Farndon

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 marramcovered dunes at the latter. Further west, Titchwell Marsh featuring a combination of both brackish and freshwater habitats, has become the RSPB flagship reserve, offering both the facility of

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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 2013. They include sessions on Beginning Birding (both for families & adults) and Titchwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fabulous Wildlife For further details: titchwell@rspb.org.uk 01485 210779

photo: Philip Farndon

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.”

photo: Mick Green

ALL TYPES OF OPTICS FOR ALL TYPES OF PEOPLE CLEY SPY LTD Manor Farm Barns Glandford Holt Norfolk NR25 7JP Telephone: 01263 740088

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Children’s Norfolk Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery Norwich 01603 495897

Fritton Lake Fritton 01493 488288

Bewilderwood Hoveton 01692 633033 BeWILDerwood is a world with more than a little sprinkling of fairy dust for the whole family – where you can take lazy boat rides across the Scaaaaary Lake, cross jungle bridges, visit treehouses, whizz down the Wobbly Wires, get befuddled in the Mudlde Maze, build dens with bracken and sticks and dress up and join in with the enchanting daily storytelling.

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!

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.

A-Maize-ing Maize Maze

Hilltop Outdoor Centre Sheringham 01263 824514

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

Thetford Forest Thetford 01842 816010 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.

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A family run outdoor centre that offers an array of activities including: Big Zipper, Climbing, Mountain Bikes, Assault Course, High Ropes, Super Swing and Power Fan. Hilltop is open to the Public for Family Adventure Days during the school holidays – booking essential. Adventure Birthday Parties available throughout the year – Please call for prices and information.

Whitlingham Country Park 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. www.whitlinghamoec.co.uk

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

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

Rock pooling on the north Norfolk 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.

Church Farm, Stow Bardolph Church Farm, Stow Bardolph – a fantastic day out, whatever the weather. Make friends with the tame animals, take a tractor ride around the farm or play on the adventure playground complete with trampolines. Don’t forget to jump around in the straw barn, make sandcastles in the giant undercover sandpit or have a race on the pedal tractors. There is also a fabulous indoor play area, the Treehouse. Homemade lunches and cakes available. Call 01366 382162 or visit: www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk

Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life This museum is well worth a visit, housed in a converted Victorian herring curing works it takes an exciting journey into the past. Discover Great Yarmouth' rich maritime and fishing heritage and some of the colourful characters who made their living from the sea.You can wander through a Victorian 'Row' and see inside a fisherman's home, experience a 1950s quayside, take the wheel of a coastal Drifter and hear gripping tales of wreck and rescue on the high seas. Lively hands-on displays, games, puzzles, free audio guides, film shows and children's activities bring the great story of Great Yarmouth vividly to life. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

Treasure Trails (Norfolk) Parkour at Kings Lynn Made with concrete blocks and steel bars, the new addition to The Walks may not look much to the untrained eye, but this bespoke Parkour course cost £90,000 and is only the second in the UK. Well worth a visit if you are in King Lynn to watch or have a go, the course is suitable for teenagers of all abilities. www.klfr.co.uk

The fun way to explore Norfolk. No GPS or local knowledge required – just follow the directions, solving the clues as you go. Complete the trail in your own time and at a pace that suits you. Over 60 trails throughout Norfolk. Trails can be purchased online or from all good Tourist Information Centres, retail outlets or downloaded through a new iPhone/Android app. Call 01362 694132 or visit: www.treasuretrails.co.uk

Snettisham Park Snettisham 01485 542425 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.

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

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.

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On the coast, of course, there is a wealth of nature reserves and pathways for walking, nature trails and bird-watching hides. Titchwell is one of the RSPBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular reserves and many rare species are observed there including avocets, which breed in front of Parrinder hide. And at Cley-next-theSea there is a superb visitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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. If you prefer to be in the water, an idyllic wild swimming spot is the River Bure at Buxton Lamas. The river is clear and deep running and flows past gardens, fields and a church. 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. 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, look out 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

Schöffel - Dubarry Musto - Le Chameau Chrysalis - Hucklecote Toggie - Deerhunter

Selling a wide range of Country Clothing, Footwear, Cartridges and Ammunition

Honda - Polaris Logic - Wessex C-Dax - SCH Ltd

New & used vehicles in stock. Fully equipped workshop for servicing of all quads and utility vehicles

Heath Farm, Great Massingham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 2HD www.lingscountrygoods.co.uk — www.mortonatv.com 01485 520 828

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the best of

Norfolk Food

Ver jus sorbet, thornham apple, olive oil with meringue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Titchwell Manor see pages 11 and 133 Photo: Jamie Maxwell Photography

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Norfolk boasts the best homegrown food and drink 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. 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) 2012 edition of the ale bible ‘The Good Beer Guide’ showed that Norfolk was a winner when it comes to local ales. With 29 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.

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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. Eleveden Elveden Estate tel: 01842 898068 Elveden Estate is well worth a visit, with its food hall, in-house butchery and homemade produce. The Estate also has its own farm where it grows its own vegetables and cereals. 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. 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 delicious goodies 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.

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!

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.

Samphire Summer again. Try it gently sautéed with butter and more lemon. Perfect with seafood.

Lakenham Creamery Norwich www.lakenhamcreamery.co.uk tel 01603 620970 An award-winning specialist cream ice cream maker based in Norwich, its Norfolk County Stem Ginger Ice Cream was awarded two stars at the 2012 Great Taste Awards. Established in 1921, their award winning ice creams are made in the traditional batch method using fresh cream, sugar, egg yolks, and an array of delicious flavours.

Turkey Well, it would be rude not to!

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.

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 30 High Street – just up the road from the quay passed the White Horse

Tel: 01263 740939 www.blakeneydeli.co.uk

SALAMIS

CHEESES

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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 •

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Norfolk food producers

Farm shops and farmers’ markets The farm shops and farmers’ markets in Norfolk are some of the best in the UK, thanks to their long agricultural history. Food production remains a critical part of the local economy today and at Norfolk’s various markets you will often meet the farmers or producers themselves. This locally-based, eco-friendly way to shop enables you to find out where your produce comes from at source. The markets are well worth a visit as not only do they offer fresh, healthy produce, but the food is much tastier than the long-hauled supermarket alternative. What’s more, the prices are usually competitive.

Farm to Fork & Fish Horstead

Bintree Farm Shop Dereham

An exciting butchery, fishmonger and deli, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal, local and top quality products.

Bintree Farm Shop, in the heart of Norfolk, is a family run business specialising in home grown wild bird seeds, fresh seasonal produce including asparagus, soft fruits sweet corn and even Christmas trees. It is also the home of 'Algy’s Home Grown Norfolk Popcorn'!

Our hot pies and sandwiches are perfect for lunch on the run, deli and fresh fruit for picnic days out while our range of ready meals and oven ready fish are perfect for stressfree eating at home. Prime cuts of meat from our awardwinning farm are available from the meat counter along with fresh fish from the wet fish bar. 01603 266129 | www.farmtoforkandfish.co.uk

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For something different, be it specialised seeds for your feathered friends or gourmet popcorn for a home movie night, why not visit our shop or browse online. 01362 683893 | www.bintreefarmshop.co.uk

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. 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

North Runcton – Caravan Park 31st Sunday, 10.00am North Walsham – St Benet's Hall 2nd and 5th Saturday, 9.00am - 12.00pm Norwich – Golden Triangle Earlham House Shopping Centre 2nd Sunday, Monthly, 10.00am - 3.00pm Norwich – Norfolk Showground 2nd Saturday monthly, 9.00am 12.00pm Repps with Bastwick – Village Hall 4th 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 Wroxham/Hoveton – Wroxham Barns 2nd Saturday, 10.00am - 12.00pm Weybourne – Maltings Hotel 2nd Sunday, 10.00am - 4.00pm Wymondham – Market Cross 3rd Saturday, 9.00am - 1.00pm

Rickinghall, Suffolk – Village Hall 2nd Saturday of each month 9.00am - 1.00pm the best of Norfolk 129

THE CROWN HOTEL 01328 710 209 www.crownhotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk E: crownhotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

eat

drink 130 the best of Norfolk

sleep THE SHIP HOTEL 01485 210 333 www.shiphotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk E: shiphotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

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The Anchor Inn is situated in the coastal village of Morston in the heart of Nelson’s playground. It is a great dog friendly stop-off for walkers, sailors, fishermen and birdwatchers alike.

Since June 2011 the pub has been run by old school friends Harry and Ro, who also have the distinction of being Norfolk’s youngest publicans. They have been putting their own stamp on coastal dining pleasing locals and Norfolklovers alike. Their efforts have not gone un-noticed and they are the proud holders of this year’s EDP Readers’ Restaurant of the Year Award as well as having been finalists in the EDP Coastal Award and The Aylsham Food Awards. By using their own quirky culinary style and the incredible locally-sourced north Norfolk produce, they create a daily, competitively-priced, menu that reflects seasonal changes and freshest of what local suppliers have available on the day When in season you’ll regularly find on the menu: Morston mussels and oysters caught literally a stone’s throw from the pub’s doorstep; wild sea trout; sea bass; north sea haddock; Holkham venison; rare breed pork and Saltmarsh lamb. Food is served throughout the The Anchor Inn, so you can choose to eat in either the cosy dog-friendly bar that features a roaring fire when it’s chilly or have a more traditional dining experience in the restaurant, that displays beautiful local art. The room can seat up to fifty-five people and is proving to be a popular for functions, from Christmas parties, birthdays and other celebratory events. So, whether it’s a warm up by the fire with a freshly made coffee or for a delicious lunch or dinner created from the best local ingredients, The Anchor Inn is a must.

The Anchor Inn The Street Morston Norfolk NR25 7AA

01263 741392

roglennie@gmail.com

www.morstonanchor.co.uk

the best of eating out The Hoste Arms Burnham Market

Titchwell Manor Hotel Near Brancaster

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

Titchwell Manor, a coastal boutique hotel near Brancaster, is renowned for its superb AA two rosette cuisine. A smart retreat for those seeking fine dining in stylish surroundings, it has stunning views across open marshes to the sea.

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.

Guests can choose to dine in either the elegant, candlelit Conservatory overlooking the gardens, or the informal Eating Rooms, a striking and informal dining area and bar with a large seaview terrace. 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. An à la carte menu is on offer for lunch and dinner, while a gourmet four and eight-course Conversation Menu with optional matched wines is also available every evening in the Conservatory. It allows diners to sample a selection of Eric’s most innovative dishes at a relaxed pace with plenty of time between courses to discuss the flavour combinations, textures and exquisite presentation. On Sundays, a retro style lunch is served in the Conservatory offering traditional favourites in stylish surroundings or come in for afternoon tea between 12 noon and 5pm.

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the best of eating out Congham Hall Sandringham

Market Bistro Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn

A new look for Congham in 2013!

Market Bistro is a family-run Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn restaurant with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. We pride ourselves on producing good quality food cooked with love, making the most of the fresh local produce around us.

Whatever the occasion Congham Hall provides the perfect atmosphere for lunch, dinner and afternoon tea! With newly appointed Nick Claxton Webb at the helm, the kitchen brigade is looking to take the food at Congham Hall to a new level. Using fresh produce from the local area and our own homegrown vegetables and herbs.

Fresh, local and seasonal food is delivered to the restaurant daily, with more rare coastal treats foraged by local experts, and fresh fish is smoked on site.

From April 2013 the revamped restaurant and bar will provide the perfect backdrop for an exciting new menu and wine list. Although lunch on the terrace overlooking the beautiful parkland is a firm favourite.

Listed in both the Which Good Food Guide and the Michelin Guide, the restaurant also has a high two-star rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA), which rewards restaurants that show a commitment to ethical eating, and helps them to source food more sustainably.

Private dining for up to 18 people.

Our knowledgeable staff can trace your meal from plough to plate and can really bring a dish to life both in terms of its source and the way it should be cooked. Why not come and see us and try the tastes of Norfolk?

saturday market place king's lynn norfolk pe30 5dq

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the best of eating out Strattons Swaffham

Briarfields Titchwell

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

Located in Titchwell, Briarfields’ restaurant offers an inventive and constantly evolving menu. Simple starters include Scotch eggs with mustard and tarragon mayonnaise, cooked to perfection – crisp on the outside, moist sausage encases still soft quail’s egg yolks.

The chic restaurant, open daily from 6.30pm and Sunday lunch, serves organic and locally sourced produce in an innovative and exciting modern English style. Extensive wine list featuring some organic and bio-dynamic examples. Large groups, children and parties welcome. The seasonal menu has a strong regional identity, you might see Muntjac and dapple cheese burger with beef dripping chips or steamed chestnut mushroom suet pudding with baby leeks and goats cheese curd. 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. On-site cafe deli ‘CoCoes’ is open Monday to Saturday, offering great coffee, fair-trade teas, homemade cakes, cookies, light bites, all day breakfast and tasty take-away. Fully licensed with a monthly Tapas night, usually the first Wednesday of the month. Visit us online for more information at: www.strattonshotel.com

Main dishes include seared rump of Aberdeen Angus beef with caramelised English onion and ‘Smelly Apeth’ gratin, pommes Anna and homemade mustard. ‘Perfick Pork’ piggy platter, Asian spices, butternut squash congee, pak choy and sesame makes a ‘heavenly’ choice. Both dishes use meat from local suppliers and it is here that Briarfields excels – the hotel’s owners avoid mass-catering suppliers in favour of fellow small businesses and the quality shines through. Dessert traditionalists will be enchanted by Toffee Apple Tart with vanilla ice cream which transforms childhood memories into sophisticated adult flavours. Pistachio and Olive Oil Cake with Greek yoghurt and rosewater syrup meld into a smooth blend evocative of Greek holidays. Briarfields is truly a Norfolk delight.

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the best of eating out The Edith Cavell Tombland, Norwich

The Stiffkey Red Lion Stiffkey

Overlooking the historic Tombland area of Norwich, The Edith Cavell Bar and Restaurant encapsulate the surrounding spirit of the city. Lovingly restored in 2012, our homely setting exudes a relaxed ambience. In our downstairs bar you will find a selection of real ales, continental beers and fine wines.

No designer wallpaper, no hint of a gastro pub, no award winning chefs and most unlike a boutique Hotel, The Stiffkey Red Lion is a real Inn welcoming muddy wellies, friendly dogs, well behaved children and of course the occasional grown-up!

Located above the bar is our exclusive Restaurant, PRIME. Guests can expect a unique dining experience offering the opportunity to truly get involved. Having chosen your favourite cut of steak or type of seafood, we serve it to the table on your very own sizzling hot stone. Our chefs will equip you with the tools you need and the hot stones allow you to cook your food to your personal preference, ensuring every mouthful is to your specific taste.

The Edith Cavell Bar and Restaurant 7 Tombland Norwich Norfolk NR3 1HF Tel: 01603 765813 Email: info@theedithcavell.co.uk www.theedithcavell.co.uk

136 the best of Norfolk

What you will find is an extensive seasonal menu, Lobsters, Oysters, Wells Crabs, Stiffkey Mussels, we source the very best local produce to create meat, fish and other dishes of great quality. We promise you a warm welcome with open fires, real ales and great wines supplied by Corney & Barrow of London. Now with 12 eco friendly bedrooms consisting of, two suites, a family room, three twins and six doubles. On the Coast road between Blakeney and Wells-next- the-Sea. Book online at: www.stiffkey.com email us on redlion@stiffkey.com or call 01328 830552 for further details.

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, 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, 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. 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”.

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Time to reflect… Upon the end of his first year in Blakeney at the White Horse, new owner Francis Guildea has lost none of his enthusiasm for neither his new venture nor his positive view for the year ahead.

Francis said, “arriving for work each morning I drive down the hill towards the White Horse and the most amazing view greets me. Whether in bright sunshine or looking moody and atmospheric, it’s always stunning and I feel very privileged to be here.

We have been supported by a terrific team however throughout the year and are very grateful for their hard work and support for where we want to take the business.”

It has not always been plain sailing but it has been a positive move for my family and me and we are very proud of what we have achieved so far in a relatively short space of time.

“This year is about consolidation really. My wife says I have champagne ideas and lemonade pockets so having refurbished much of the public space the business now needs to start paying us back a little before we plan the next phase!

Our biggest frustration has been overcoming the surprising amount of investment that was required back of house in areas customers don’t see. We did not envisage having to do quite so much and it has meant some of our refurbishment plans are running a little behind but we have plenty of time and after all, the engine has to be running if you want to drive the car!

So what can we expect in 2013?

We are however very excited by the addition of Nick Hare as Head Chef to the team. Nick has refreshed our views regarding the food offer at the Horse and we are looking forward to working with him and his brigade and ensuring the White Horse remains a landmark destination for the foodie tourists who flock to the north Norfolk coast”

4 High Street Blakeney Norfolk NR25 7AL Telephone: 01263 740574 www.blakeneywhitehorse.co.uk

Land of malt and barley Beer lovers, look no further: Norfolk is bursting with established and upstart microbreweries, and they are producing some of the finest – and most inventive – pints around. Laura Potts raises a glass to Norfolk’s real ales.

Humpty Dumpty Brewery Producing cracking real ales in the Norfolk Broads since 1998. Awards include Bronze in the 2009 CAMRA Champion Beer of Britain for Little Sharpie and Gold and Silver respectively for Christmas Crack and Lemon and Ginger at the 2012 CAMRA Norwich Beer Festival. Humpty beers can be found in casks and bottles across East Anglia in pubs, clubs, festivals and shops. The Brewery Shop on site sells bottle and draught beer alongside other local products.

Church Road, Reedham, NR13 3TZ. Telephone: 01493 701 818 Email: info@humptydumptybrewery.co.uk www.humptydumptybrewery.co.uk

140 the best of Norfolk

It seems as long as there’s been Norfolk, there’s been beer – a robust heritage built on the area’s rich agricultural assets and obliging climate. With homegrown barley nurtured by the North Sea mists and a tradition of brewing dating to Roman times, it’s no wonder contemporary Norfolk microbrewers are making a name for themselves. “Between Norfolk and Suffolk there are 50 breweries, and it’s quite safe to say that’s a very high concentration,” said Jon Howard, spokesman for the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). “There are now more small breweries (nationally) than at any time since WWII.” Grain Brewery, in the bucolic Waveney River valley straddling Norfolk and Suffolk, is one of those success stories. What started almost as a hobby shared by a couple of guys who loved a good pint, Grain is now a multiple award-winning brewery whose eclectic range of beers can be found in London and across East Anglia’s pubs, restaurants, hotels and farm shops. Grain’s own pub, The Plough in Norwich, nestles cosily in a 500-year-old merchant’s house with a sprawling, continental-style beer garden – but its beer takes centre stage. Enticing seasonal and one-off varieties aside, Grain’s mainstay of 9 real ales cover all bases, from subtly fruity wheat beers and pale ales to distinctive bitters.

“We brew endlessly, and we really go down the rabbit hole,” trying assorted blends to develop flavours like the zingy, auburn-hued Redwood bitter, said Grain co-founder Phil Halls. “You can be experimental and try things out to create different combinations, and that’s what I like about brewing.” So evangelical about brewing are Halls and partner Geoff Wright that they’ve hired a ‘beer missionary’ to spread the gospel and, like many local microbrewers, they are pleased to give tours of the brewery, in a converted dairy where they produce 18,000 pints a week. With so much to offer, Norfolk microbrewers have two festivals – the annual Norwich City of Ale (held in the spring) and CAMRA’s Norwich Beer Festival (in October) – in which to showcase their talents. In 2012, the beer festival’s gold award was awarded jointly to Mauldon’s of Suffolk and relative newcomer Beeston Brewery, which sprung up in a west Norfolk farm village in 2006. Its winning beer – Bloomers, a golden ale – has proved to be a hit and may join the brewery’s range of nine bitters, stouts and ales, said Mark Riches, owner and head brewer. “One of the key things here is that we’re stuck way out in the countryside and we have our own water supply,” Riches said. “We use maris otter barley grown and crushed at Branthill Farm (in nearby Wells-Next-the-Sea)…which

gives a very rich, robust flavour – it’s reckoned to be the best in the world. We try to do everything as local as we can.” It’s an ethos commonly repeated by microbrewers across the county, who recognise there’s a collective benefit to supporting local farmers, suppliers and each other. That’s why pubs such as the Fat Cat in Norwich (a darling of CAMRA, the Good Pub Guide and real ale lovers everywhere) offer both a large range of their own brews as well as a number of Norfolk classics, such as Beeston’s and Woodforde’s Norfolk Ales. Indeed, truly committed beer enthusiasts could do worse than plotting a brewery tour of the county, incorporating Woodforde’s welcoming Fur & Feather Inn at Woodbastwick; Humpty Dumpty Brewery, Reedham in the Broads; Wolf Brewery near Attleborough (with its unusual range, including a lavender honey beer); and the Brancaster Brewery’s pub, the Jolly Sailors, in Brancaster Staithe. Or, to browse a selection of the best Norfolk has to offer, be sure to seek out the Real Ale Shop at Branthill Farm in WellsNext-the-Sea; or The Shed at Wroxham (stocking 50 Norfolk milds, stouts, porters and real ciders), a traditional Broads boatshed in the waterside village. But that’s just a start: with more than two dozen small, independent brewers dotted around the county, Norfolk is a real ale enthusiast’s heaven.

The Wolf Brewery Founded in 1996, the Wolf Brewery quickly gained popularity across Norfolk and after ten years of steady growth production moved to Besthorpe in 2006 before relocating to new premises at Decoy Farm in early 2013. Sustainability and supporting local suppliers is at our core: Our own bore hole water; locally malted barley; spent brewing grains fed to local cattle. The Wolf Brewery continues to win national, regional and local awards for its beers both in casks and bottles. You can buy on line or from our brewery shop. Wolf Brewery Telephone: 01953 457775

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the best of

Norfolkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Artists and Makers

Detail of Sand Dunes, a textile artwork by Wendy Watt

142 the best of Norfolk

Bluejacket Workshop

Artists and Makers and an Antique Dealer Norfolk is well known for having one of the highest proportions of artists in the country. Since the 18th century painters have been attracted to the coast, the gentle landscape and in particular the quality of light created by the big open skies and the water. More recently the 1960s and 70s saw an influx of artistic people escaping city life for something more simple. As well as the painters and fine artists there were crafts people or makers; potters, carpenters and weavers. The border between art and craft has now become blurred to the point where it is hard to define, and shops and galleries reflect this change. Three years ago we set up Bluejacket Workshop to be a showroom for five local artists/makers and my antiques. Housed in the large workshop built by Ned and Nick Hamond in Morston, on the edge of the marshes, it has a view of the sea that influences so much of our work. Nick’s simple, elegant furniture and carpentry is very much in the English tradition which of course includes the odd moment of eccentricity. He mostly uses native woods locally sourced, sometimes from his own reserves laid down by his father and grandfather. He sells from the showroom but increasingly his clients are choosing to commission one-off pieces. Ned Hamond makes copper and wooden chandeliers and wall sconces, of which the most magnificent examples can be seen in Morston church. On a smaller scale he makes wooden toys based on those he played with as a child. Along with wood, the other central strand to Bluejacket Workshop is textiles. Wendy Watt and Saffron Paffron are textile artists who add comfort, warmth and colour. Wendy’s stitched textile pictures express the moods and colours of the coast where she lives and her unique

pebble cushions reflect the stones she finds on her walks. She is also a milliner, making felt and straw hand-blocked hats. Saffron’s work is inspired by the history of needlework. Vintage textiles and haberdashery found in antique shops and auctions are incorporated into loose-covered furniture, lampshades and cushions. Like Nick, they are both finding that people are becoming increasingly confident to commission work inspired by what they see at Bluejacket Workshop. A different kind of textile work is the knitted Norfolk Gansey, a traditional fisherman’s Jersey, with a different pattern for each local town on the coast. Roberta Hamond continues a family tradition, knitting children’s versions as well as miniature boot socks, shawls and hats. Together with the contemporary pieces are my antiques. As a second generation dealer my roots are in tradition, but over the last couple of decades I have become more interested in finding beautiful and interesting things for peoples’ homes. Stock may be from any period, style or country, but will always include comfortable sofas and armchairs, practical chests of drawers, tables and 20th century lighting. When we find pottery, jewellery and paintings we like, we also invite guest artists to join us in the shop. But we stipulate that everything is made in Norfolk, only available at Bluejacket and most importantly, of a style and quality that works for Bluejacket Workshop. Luke Scott

sculptures are always part of our collection, the endearing Silly Moo!Quirky Daisy’ the Friesian is a must above a black Aga!! £195.00

Life size, Life like Sheep – could be coming to a garden, orchard or courtyard near you! £295.00 each

Hares, Dogs, Larks & Angels Paintings, Sketches & Editions. Sculpture, Ceramics & A Decorative Selection

Giddyup Decorative wooden ‘Folk Art’ style Rocking Horse, (19 in. high) £95.00

Love me…take me home! ’BLACK LAB’ (Image 22 ½ x 16 in.) Limited Edition of just 50 From a selection in the gallery

Heirloom Cushions in 100% wool with cotton velvet backing – just part of our range. £55.00 each.

Custard dear? Quirky ceramics – a wonderful range of egg cups and jugs featuring dogs, cats, foxes, badgers, cows, sheep and much more…. £10.00 - £25.00

‘THE ANGELS OF SALTHOUSE’ by Alan Page (Image 18 x 31 ½ in.) Limited Edition Silkscreen of 50 Signed and numbered by the artist.

‘AND ALL WAS FOR AN APPLE’ by Lizzie Riches (Image 19 ½ x 14 in.) Limited Edition Silkscreen Edition of 65 Each initialled and numbered by the artist. £350.00

Up with the Larks

Historic patterns from the Strangers Hall textile archives in Norwich given a new twist by designer Sue Foster. Cushions £45.00 each

THE RED DOT GALLERY

‘UP WITH THE LARKS’ (Image 16 ¾ x 24 in.) Original Etching – Edition of 135 Hand painted, signed and numbered by the artist. £300.00

2 LYLES COURT, LEES YARD, HOLT NORFOLK. NR25 6HS. 01263 710287 sales@thereddotgallery.com www.thereddotgallery.com

paintings sculpture ceramics

PICTURES • SCULPTURE • GLASS • JEWELLERY 4 The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7AL Tel: 01263 740013

a relaxed and welcoming gallery at the heart of north norfolk

Since first opening in Norwich in 2002, Grapevine has established a considerable reputation for the range and quality of the work shown and its friendly character. The gallery is just a five minute stroll from the Green, close to the Village Stores and next door to Gilly’s Boutique. Overy Road, Burnham Market PE31 8HH Tel 01328 730125 www.burnhamgrapevine.co.uk

146 the best of Norfolk

burnham grapevine

paintings, sculpture and ceramics in Burnham Market – North Norfolk's most attractive village

The Norwich School The Norwich Society of Artists was founded in 1803 by John Crome and Robert Ladbrooke as a club where artists could meet to exchange ideas, it was the first provincial art movement in Britain. Artists of the school were inspired by the natural beauty of the Norfolk landscape Its aims were ‘an enquiry into the rise, progress and present state of painting, architecture, and sculpture, with a view to point out the best methods of study to attain the greater perfection in these arts.’ The society’s first meeting was in ‘The Hole in the Wall’ tavern; two years later it moved to premises which allowed it to offer members work and exhibition space. Its first exhibition opened in 1805, and was such a success that it became an annual event until 1825. The building was demolished but the society re-opened three years later, in 1828, as ‘The Norfolk and Suffolk Institution for the Promotion of the Fine Arts’ at a different venue and exhibitions continued until 1833. The leading light of the movement was undoubtedly John Crome who attracted many friends and pupils until

his death in 1821. The mantle of leadership then fell on John Sell Cotman, a member of the society since 1807, who continued to keep the society together until he left Norwich for London in 1834 to take up a post at King's College School. The society effectively ceased to exist from that date. The Norwich School's great achievement was that a small group of self-taught working class artists were able to paint with vitality the hinterland surrounding Norwich, assisted by meagre local patronage. Far from creating pastiches of the Dutch 17th century, Crome and Cotman, along with Joseph Stannard, established a school of landscape painting which deserves greater fame; the broad washes of Cotman's watercolours anticipate French impressionism. The reason the Norwich School artists are not so well known as other painters of the period, notably Constable and

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery | Castle Hill | Norwich NR1 3JU. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

Turner, is because the majority of their canvases were collected by the industrialist J. J. Colman (of Colman's mustard fame), and have been on permanent display in Norwich Castle Museum since the 1880s.

You can visit the Colman Art Galleries, housed in Norwich Castle, at the following times: Peak Season (2 July – 30 September) Monday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm Sunday: 1pm – 5pm Low Season Monday to Saturday: 10am – 4.30pm Sunday: 1pm – 4.30pm Closed 23 – 26 December 2013 and 1 January 2014 www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

the best of Norfolk 147

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THE GARDEN HOUSE GALLERY & SHOP

31, GARDEN STREET, CROMER. NORFOLK NR27 9HN .

01263 511234 info@garden-house-gallery.co.uk www.gardenhousegallery.co.uk

Open 7 days a week, 364 days a year.

An ever changing array of work by local artists and crafts people. Gifts for home and garden from across the UK and further afield.

148 the best of Norfolk

Going that Extra Mile – Taking part in the extra-curricular activities offered at independent schools is an excellent way of building up selfconfidence – and increasing one’s skills for life. Think back to your schooldays, and chances are that you remember what you did outside the classroom rather than in it. Education for life is about more than passing exams. Through adventure, community service and selfimprovement, children become well-equipped to take responsibility for their own lives, show initiative, think dynamically and approach life with an open mind. Independent schools offer today’s students a huge range of extra-curricular activities – and some persuasive reasons for signing up to them.

Schools

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oad Cromer Cromer R Road o H olt Holt N orfolk Norfolk NR25 6EA Tel: 01263 71 Tel: 714500 Fax: Fax: 01263 712028 rregistrar@greshams.com egistrar@greshams.com

Gresham’s hits a high note

Gresham’s, a coeducational boarding school set in the countryside surrounding Holt, North Norfolk, has a remarkable legacy. Since its founding in 1555, it has helped children from Norfolk and further afield to make the most of their academic and creative abilities. Gresham’s has long enjoyed an enviable reputation for producing artists of the highest standard and alumni include W.H. Auden, Stephen Spender, Humphrey Berney from Blake and actress Olivia Colman. The School offers a wealth of opportunities in not only the arts but across academia and sports.

In 2012, the School was used as a film set where the cast and crew of Benjamin Britten – Peace and Conflict arrived to shoot their film-documentary exploring the pacifism of the renowned composer. The Schools’ corridors and boarding houses were returned to the 1920s and Holt’s steam railway station was also used as a location. Some students and staff were lucky to be cast in the film which was narrated by Oscar nominated actor John Hurt. Following on from filming, in September Gresham’s unveiled an extensive Arts programme of events to commemorate the centenary of old boy Benjamin Britten. The School’s wonderful selection of performance spaces provides perfect venues for these events with the Auden Theatre, Theatre-in-the-Woods, Nicholson Gallery and the beautiful Grade-II listed Chapel being used. A Benjamin Britten Centenary brochure which features the programme of events taking place in 2013 alongside articles about Britten’s time at the School, sourced from the

School’s archive is available to purchase (£5) via the Auden Box Office, telephone: 01263 713444 or visit: www.greshams.com/britten100 for further details. In November 2012, the School became an All Steinway School. Gresham’s is now the first school in the East of England, and the first Prep and Pre-Prep School in the UK to have secured this prestigious accolade. Gresham’s musicians can now enjoy the benefits of learning and playing on world-class pianos with the School now having access to Steinway Halls internationally. Visit the Enterprises section of www.greshams.com to explore the variety of events on offer. Summer and Easter sports and music camps are also run, including the Britten Music Course in July, a four-day residential camp providing choral and instrumental workshops for pupils aged 8-13. If you are visiting Norfolk for the first time or you are a returning visitor, Gresham’s offers plenty of opportunities for arts enthusiasts young and old.

Norwich High School GDST (3 - 18 years) The best all-through, all-girls education in Norfolk

Taster Days Open Events, Taster and Performances throughout 2013

A place for discovery and adventure Listed in the Top Top Twenty Twenty Day Schools in the country in Country Life’ Life’ss Good Schools’ Guide. Visitors Visitors are always welcome. www.norwichhigh.gdst.net www.norwichhigh.gdst.net

www.obh.co.uk Co-educational Boarding & Day Preparatory School for children aged 3-13 years Old Buckenham Hall, Brettenham Park, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP7 7PH e: admissions@obh.co.uk t: 01449 740252

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FRAMLINGHAM FR RAMLINGHAM COLLEGE C OLLEGE

BRANDESTON B RANDESTON HALL

boarding boarding & day day sch school ool (13-18)

bo boarding arding & d day ay p prep rep sch school ool (2Â˝-13)

To T o arrange a private visit, please visit our website:

framcollege.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 1 1114383 114383

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 last 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 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 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. www.framcollege.co.uk the best of Norfolk 153

CHURCHES

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. 154 the best of Norfolk

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

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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Holiday accommodation Whether you are looking for a cosy cottage in the countryside with an open fire, a seaside holiday home or a modern, stylish bed and breakfast – there are lots to choose from in Norfolk.

The fact that holiday cottages are selfcatering is the single biggest advantage for many holidaymakers. Most have fully-equipped kitchens with all mod cons, giving you the chance to try local produce at your own pace as well as eating out in some of the county’s great restaurants and eateries. Holiday cottages are ideal for groups and large families – family and friends can get together round the dinner table at night, relax in the garden during afternoons or play board games during the evenings. Many holiday cottages admit pets, so there is no need to confine Toto to kennels while the rest of the family

enjoys a week or two away. Renting a selfcontained holiday cottage means there’s little chance of your dog disturbing other guests and many places have a garden or outside space for pets to enjoy. For those who don’t have children, the extra space that staying in a holiday cottage provides can be a life-saver. Being able to spread out means you can really relax and enjoy your stay. It’s true that there won’t be someone on hand to change your towels or make your bed every day – but why worry? You’re on holiday after all! If you enjoy the outdoors, Norfolk has some alternative campsites worth a visit.

Create the memory… Trust Norfolk’s leading holiday lettings agency to help you find a holiday to remember. Choose from over 400 properties in our free colour brochure.

01263 715779 www.norfolkcottages.co.uk 156 the best of Norfolk

The Best of Norfolk camping . . . Outney Meadow, Bungay

Yaxham Waters, Dereham

West Lexham

If you enjoy being near water look no farther than Outney Meadow for a charming, friendly and unpretentious riverside site on the banks of the River Waveney. Try wild swimming, fishing or canoeing. You can hire canoes from £22 a half-day in high season. Camping from £17.

Natures Path Tipi and Yurt Holidays is based at Yaxham Waters near Dereham and is located on a site with fishing lakes, a well stocked farm shop and café.

Luxury campsite in the heart of Rural Norfolk offering holiday cottages, 'glamping', camping and a timber framed tree house.

There are two authentic Mongolian yurts and a Sioux style tipi, each fully fitted out with a well equipped kitchen area, real beds and futons, and for the chillier evenings sheepskins, throws and a wood burner.

The luxury bell tent campsite is nestled in the grounds of a 27 acre private country estate at West Lexham. There are 14 pitches and four unfurnished bohemian bell tents which can each sleep up to 6 people. The bell tents have an installed Eco wood burning stove, wifi and access to an outdoor kitchen. Generally open all year, this year sees an extensive refurbishment, so bookings are being taken from May.

Tel: 01986 892338 www.outneymeadow.co.uk

Open April to October. Tel: 01692 671771 www.naturespathtipis.co.uk

Tel: 01760 755 434 www.westlexham.org

Holiday Cottages

We are North Norfolk's leading local holiday cottage agency, based in Burnham Market, offering over 180 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. 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 2013 brochure.

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

the best of Norfolk 157

With the announcement in 2012 that Norwich has been granted UNESCO World City of Literature status – one of only six such cities in the world – Norfolk’s proud, busy and long history of literary activity is now known the world over. This exciting and hugely prestigious accolade was given in acknowledgment of the city’s fantastic reputation as a place of literary interest, a reputation which will no doubt be enhanced further as a result of the award.

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. 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.

158 the best of Norfolk

Hollis, Norwich born and raised, is also a successful poet and editor whose most recent book, a highly acclaimed biography of the last years of the life of Edward Thomas was a winner at last 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...

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 seascapes 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 including 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!) 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 Sam Riviere, whose first collection with Faber and Faber, 81 Austerities, won the Forward Poetry Prize in 2012. Matthew

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. The county-wide Norfolk and Norwich Festival – the fourth biggest arts festival in the UK – also has a big literary presence, with Iain Sinclair, Alan Moore, Carol Ann-Duffy and Andrew Motion all recent guest speakers, and there are plenty of other smaller celebrations around the county too.

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 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...

Some of the festivals: WYMONDHAM WORDS BRECKLAND BOOK FESTIVAL WELLS POETRY FESTIVAL UEA LITERARY FESTIVAL VOEWOOD FESTIVAL WRITERS CENTRE NORWICH HOLT FESTIVAL

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 events with big names as well as support, tutelage and advice for new writers, and who were the force behind the UNESCO bid. 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 immediately had a book on the Man Booker Prize shortlist, and another, Galley Beggar Press, launched its first title in August 2012 – The White Goddess - An Encounter by Simon Gough, 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. The book was an instant success and the publisher now has several new books in the pipeline for the next two years.

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

the best of Norfolk 159

Opening doors for your business

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The Best of Norfolk is an annual magazine personalised for the leading hotels, galleries and retailers across Norfolk.

Congham Hall

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The magazine is also on sale across the region and distributed to numerous boutique hotels, B&Bs and holiday lets.

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160 the best of Norfolk

Woodbridge School RE-FOUNDED IN 1662

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