the best of
NORFOLK YOUR ANNUAL GUIDE TO THIS UNIQUE COUNTY
bestnorfolk.com
JANUARY – DECEMBER 2014
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THE FINEST SHOPPING IN NORWICH SINCE 1823 JARROLD STANDS PROUDLY IN THE CENTRE OF THE CITY A family run department store since 1823. Jarrolds reflects Norwich perfectly, combining a unique and contemporary shopping experience with a sense of heritage.
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LONDON . NO R FO L K . S U F F OLK . ES S E X . HER T F ORDS HI RE
1 Pound House, High Street, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6BW Market Place, Burnham Market, Norfolk, PE31 8HE w w w . sho p at an n a. c o m
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NORFOLK Many believe Norfolk’s untouched, rugged coastline mixed with its ancient landscape stretching evocatively from the fens to the royal coast sets it apart. But others will say it’s Norfolk’s vast, dramatic skies which frame this unique county with its distinctive market towns and chocolate box villages that draw them back time and time again.
Whatever your passion, whether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor to the county, The Best of Norfolk, the county’s leading annual visitor guide is simply spoilt for choice when it comes to what’s on offer locally. There really is something for everyone. Even long standing Norfolk residents are sure to discover hidden treasures on their own doorstep. Norfolk is indeed a glorious place with a wealth of fascinating elements. Its flat coastal topography and undulating inland geography is ideal for exploring. Where to start? The villages and towns, the ancient woodlands, the sea? There is so much to discover and so much to enjoy. And that’s not to mention the mouthwatering food. As you travel around you'll notice that the county prides itself on an abundance of locally produced and award-winning food at the many and varied farm shops, delis and independent butchers, fishmongers and pick-your-owns. All are well worth a visit. You'll also find superb local produce widely available on the menus of pubs and restaurants throughout the county, in a display of ingredients that links the sea, the soil, wildlife, livestock and, most of all, its irrepressible people.
The Best of Norfolk has all the information you need to discover what’s waiting, whether you are looking for a one-off item of local craftsmanship, interested in the county’s legendary arts, looking for award-winning fish and chips or a lively market with a colourful array of local produce or just seeking a crackling fire and locally-brewed pint to wind down by. And if it’s the kind of place you can see yourself relocating to, we’re immensely proud that Norfolk promises not only a happier, healthier way of life with its great outdoors, but it’s also bursting at the seams with history and culture. Whatever your passion, we hope you enjoy discovering it as much as we do.
Jonathan Tilston Publisher
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Publisher Jonathan Tilston Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Editorial Director Deanna Tilston Sales Marina Jacobs Design Paul Newman alanbrannandesign.co.uk Photographic Contributors Kate Barclay images pages 4,5, 8 & 9, 10, 28, 60, 62 and 102 www.katebarclay.co.uk Justin Minns images pages 4,6,31,33 and 120 www.justinminns.co.uk
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© Visit Norwich © Visit Norfolk © Visit Britain - Rod Edwards, Daniel Bosworth, Simon Winnall, Richard Surman, James Mc Cormick Borough Council of Diss Waveney section Ronald Blunk of Swan House, Waveney Valley Trust, Sylvaine, Ian Carstairs Brecks section Neil Featherstone Brecks Partnership Broads section Broads Tours, Broads Authority West Norfolk section Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk Great outdoors section Gone Crabbing Titchwell Manor food photography | Jamie Maxwell photography Hoste photography | Keiron Tovell Photography, Sea Haze Photography, Chris Taylor Photo Cafe Society image | Hayley Gosling Editorial Contributors Laura Potts, Sarah Hardy, Caroline Jarrold Ottilie Tilston, Angela Hagan With special thanks to all advertisers
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THE BROADS WEST NORFOLK
THE BRECKS SOUTH NORFOLK & Attleborough WAVENEY VALLEY
Contents Great days out in Norfolk North Norfolk Thornham The Burnhams The great outdoors Holkham beach and village Norfolk beaches Wells-next-the-Sea Walsingham Blakeney Cley-next-the-Sea Holt Independent shopping Children's Norfolk Sheringham Cromer Pub walks The Brecks Swaffham Fakenham Dereham Norwich Weddings Norfolk Broads Wroxham Horning Aylsham Reepham West Norfolk King's Lynn Hunstanton Stately homes and gardens Waveney Valley Diss Across the border Norfolk food Norfolk galleries & artists Opening doors for your business Literary Norfolk
7 8 10 17 26 28 31 33 34 36 39 42 46 56 58 60 64 66 68 75 76 78 96 101 104 108 110 112 114 116 120 122 126 130 132 138 152 158 160
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IN NORFOLK Whatever the season, it's always a good time to visit Norfolk. In our now overly technological and busy lives, Norfolk offers a unique opportunity to put down your smart phone and re-connect with your surroundings.
Enjoy some real down time in the comfort of one of our many independent hotels which offer heaps of character and luxury, our cosy cottages for a home-from-home experience, or our B&Bs for a warm and friendly welcome. If you require more retail therapy than relaxation, Norfolk provides an array of charming market towns that deliver retail extravagance. Both Holt and Burnham Market are famous for their independent shops and excellent customer service – offering the perfect mix of bespoke boutiques and cafés. From farmers’ markets to fresh fish; designer clobber to vintage bargains; antiques to credit-crunching car boot sales, nowhere does it better than Norfolk.
Once you have explored our towns and villages why not put your feet up and do nothing! Revived, you will be ready to experience our wide, open skies and landscapes which make for invigorating coastal strolls or cycling adventures. Our footpaths are plentiful and varied from open meadows to forest trails and cliff-top paths.
To keep abreast of the most exciting events the county has to offer, visit our blog at www.bestnorfolk.com.
Exploring our countryside and villages by bicycle is recommended, too, but do not forget to drop by a country pub en route.
Discover more about the town centres or the great outdoors, not forgetting the world of art and culture. Dog lovers and their pets can even follow the Norfolk adventures of Pickle, the mischievous Border Terrier.
Indeed, walk or cycle the landscapes and enjoy the views by eating in one of our many restaurants or pubs that serve local produce.
It provides an up-to-date guide of Norfolk's wide range of changing seasonal events, from fun family days out to tips about the finest food and drink.
Whatever your interests, the Best of Norfolk blog is the first port of call for visitors.
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Every taste is tailored for, in this food-loving 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 to 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.
NORTH NORFOLK
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Thornham Set on the marshes and with a smuggling past, Thornham is a favourite with artists and bird watchers. HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
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 – 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.
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 visit the RSPB site here and the neighbouring one at Holme-next-theSea, which also boasts a wide, sandy beach.
Thornham offers several great eateries for a warming bite to eat. The famous Lifeboat Inn overlooks the marshes and is a long-time favourite with its small gaslight-lit bar.
MARKET DAYS The nearest markets are at Hunstanton every Sunday or Creake Abbey farmers’ market on the first Saturday of each month.
Brancaster and Brancaster Staithe, which combine the gorgeous coastline with a first class golf course, should not be missed. Alternatively, the White Horse pub, right on the tidal marshes, is a lovely spot to rest a while and gaze at the sunset as you sip a glass of chilled wine.
Well worth a visit is The Orange Tree, which was awarded Norfolk Dining Pub of the Year. Nearby, The Village Deli and Cafe is very family friendly and has a real accent on local produce. Close to Thornham is Drove Orchards, they have a great selection of interesting retail outlets and make sure you don't leave without a bottle of their delicious Apple Juice. Both Titchwell Manor and Briarfields Hotel also offer top notch accommodation and great food.
DON’T MISS HOTSPOTS Do not pass through the village without stopping off to treat yourself to a local delicacy at Thornham Oysters. The natural salt marsh creeks have been used to farm oysters since Roman times, and this ancient indulgence is now available to order online. Check out www.thornhamoysters.co.uk for more details.
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Titchwell Manor, PE31 8BB Briarfields, PE31 8BB
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Sitting proudly on the North Norfolk Coast, RSPB Titchwell Marsh showcases some of the best natural highlights this area has to offer. Stroll through dappled woodland, past shimmering reedbed to the waves crashing on to the expansive beach. Gaze across the reserve and watch birds plunge down to the lagoons or get lost listening to the honey-coloured bearded tits calling to each other from the reeds. Visit Titchwell Marsh and don’t just get closer to nature, become part of it. avocets
Titchwell Marsh Seasonal Highlights Spring
Autumn
Winter
This is one of the most exciting times of the year. The first spring migrants, such as swallows and sand martins, can be seen over the lagoons with wheatears along the beach. If you are lucky, you may also hear the 'booming' of the bittern, which has recently returned to breed at Titchwell and marsh harriers can be seen performing their 'sky dancing' display.
Autumn is the time for waders when, with luck, over 20 species could be seen around the reserve.
Winter is the time for wildfowl at Titchwell. Large numbers of ducks and geese winter in North Norfolk and most of these species can be seen on the lagoons. The commonest species are teal, wigeon, mallard, gadwall and shoveler, with smaller numbers of pintails and goldeneyes.
Summer Mid-summer is the quietest time for birds but the best for some of the more elusive reserve species. By mid-July, the breeding marsh harriers will have flying young and up to 15 birds have been seen in a day.
Species such as curlew sandpiper, little stint and black-tailed godwit stop on the lagoons to feed on their return migration from their Arctic breeding grounds to their African wintering grounds. September is one of the best months to view bearded tits. The young gather in small flocks and can show very well feeding on seeds blown onto the mud near the Island Hide.
Offshore from the reserve, large 'rafts' of common scoters, long tailed ducks and eiders can be seen. In the evenings, thousands of pink-footed geese can be seen flying to their roost sites along the coast. Hen harriers, marsh harriers and occasionally barn owls can be seen over the reedbed at dusk. In the evenings, thousands of pink-footed geese may be seen flying to their roost sites along the coast.
black tailed godwit
pink footed goose
marsh harrier
eider brent goose
bittern
bearded tit
rspb.org.uk 12 the of NORFOLK
We know every square mile
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The Burnhams Make time to visit all seven of the Burnhams, navigating your route by medieval churches. HISTORY
DON’T MISS
The Burnham villages have links to a high profile historical figure – Lord Nelson. Born in Burnham Thorpe, his father Edmund was rector of both St Marys and All Saints’ church during the late 18th- century.
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.
Burnham Market, nicknamed Chelsea on the Sea because of its top end feel, now claims to be Norfolk’s loveliest village. Its mainly Georgian buildings surround a huge green with mature trees, and in some years, a stream called the Goose Beck flowing through the middle.
MARKET DAYS As the name implies, historically Burnham became known for its bustling market trade. These days, a farmers’ market takes place on the first Saturday of every month just outside the village at Creake Abbey.
GET YOUR BEARINGS 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.
There are also many other highly original independent and specialist shops selling a wide range of delicatessen products, trendy clothes for all the family, books 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.
Burnham Deepdale is fast becoming quite the place for those who like glamping. There’s a backpackers’ hostel, a campsite with yurts, tipis and a very good café. The annual craft fair in August is a solid favourite among locals as well as the summer auctions on The Green. If you like a good read, Burnham Market Book Festival takes place in November. Check out www.burnhammarket.co.uk
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS AuGuST Burnham Market Summer Classical Concerts DECEMBER Burnham Deepdale Christmas Market
THINGS TO DO AND SEE HOTSPOT For those who like a nature trail, Samphire picking takes place at Burnham Overy Staithe when it is in season from June to September. Also known as ‘sea asparagus’, this delicious fleshy plant perfectly compliments any fish.
The Hoste, PE31 8HD
The Burnhams have plenty more to offer the outdoorsy visitor, with the Deepdale Outdoor & Wildlife Festival in April, Suburu Houghton International Horse Trial in May and the Flower Show and Carnival in July.
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AN EXCITING FIND of MODERN JEWELLERY WHILST VISITING NORFOLK URBAN ARMOUR in BURNHAM MARKET Whilst visiting Norfolk, some people find ancient artifacts on the beach or in a newly ploughed field. We however found a delightful collection of modern jewellery in a more conventional setting when we visited the lovely Georgian village of Burnham Market recently. Although award winning contemporary jewellers Urban Armour have just celebrated their 10th year in Burnham Market, a visit to their beautiful boutique in a converted chapel shows that they are not resting on their laurels. Charles and Brygida Bourn constantly travel to shows in Europe and the USA or the Far East looking for new ideas and ranges that will appeal to their discerning and sophisticated customers and that will fit in and complement the selection they already have on show. In the delightful, sleek and spacious showroom just off the green you will find established British Designer favourites like Monica Vinader, Dower & Hall, Chlobo and Deakin & Francis to name but a few.
Crislu from California, Lapponia from Finland, Deco Echo from Poland, Bjorg from Norway, Pianegonda from Italy and Luxenter from Spain. Just in the last few months however, Urban Armour has introduced new brands like Sophie Harley (2013 Designer of the Year), Dinny Hall, Kate Chell and Bering watches (2013 Watch brand of the Year). And it is this side of the business that most appeals to Charles and Brygida â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the discovery of new and exciting collections that will stimulate the taste and sense of style of even the most knowledgeable of jewellery lovers whenever they visit. Whilst you are here in Norfolk, why not pay Urban Armour a visit yourself and see what lovely things you can find?
This excellent selection has been added to by the very best International brands like
natural jewellery made with love
Celebrating 10 years in Burnham Market
Urban Armour, The Old Chapel, North Street,Burnham Market, Norfolk, PE31 8HG Tel: 01328 738880 info@urbanarmour.co.uk
Bliss Blakeney sits in two acres on the North Norfolk coast with direct views across the salt marshes, Blakeney Pit and the North Sea beyond.
hometel holi da y h ome – h ote l f le xi bi li t y All the benefits of your own holiday home with the flexibility to reserve and pay for just the bedrooms you use. From a three-night short stay for a couple in the Master suite to a full family holiday using all four bedroom suites, Hometel affords our guests the opportunity to bespoke their own exclusive stay in the cabin using our flexible tariff model.
blissblakeney.co.uk 1 the best of
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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 everchanging 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.
R
NORFOLK LIVING MARKET PLACE BuRNHAM MARKET www.norfolkliving.co.uk Photography by Andrew Kitt
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| |
www.onestopnature.co.uk
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THE BURNHAMS The six Burnhams are known for their dining, hospitality and for being the home of Admiral Nelson. What is less known about this area of the North Norfolk coast is its fantastic wildlife and the walks that can lead to its discovery. One of real note incorporates the Norfolk coastal path and runs from Burnham Deepdale to Burnham Overy Staithe, with access also available at Burnham Norton. Running for around 3.5 miles along a raised bank, this walk offers fantastic scenery throughout the year of the North Norfolk coast, especially Scolt Head Island and the villages of Burnham Deepdale, Burnham Norton and Burnham Overy Staithe.
No Norfolk walk would be complete without a great selection of wildlife. Throughout the year visitors here will have the chance to see iconic Norfolk bird species. In Autumn and Winter great numbers of Pink-Footed Geese head over the marsh and there is also always the chance of seeing Barn Owl, ShortEared Owl, Hen Harrier and Merlin during the autumn and winter months. Spring and summer are also a fantastic time of year to visit and migrants such as Swifts, Swallows, Terns can be seen along with Spoonbill, Avocet and
Sedge Warbler. Butterflies can also be numerous on calmer days when the sun is shining. The elements can be a factor in this wild and exposed part of the coast but visitors will be rewarded with fantastic wildlife and scenery throughout the year. In general the Burnhams area of North Norfolk really are an undiscovered gem for walkers and wildlife watchers.
Oliver Reville One Stop Nature Shop
BAKERY PATISSERIE WHOLESALE Emma's Court The Green Burnham Market PE31 8HD info@bkidz.co.uk +44 (0)1328 738950 www.bkidz.co.uk
Market Place, Burnham Market, PE31 8HD Shop: 01328 738289 Wholesale: 01485 576300
Great British Seaside Gifts Gone Crabbing Shop, 7 Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale PE31 8FB. T 01485 211111 Open 10am to 5pm daily in summer & until 4pm in winter
All stockists & online at
www.gonecrabbing.co.uk Enquiries: T 01328 838357 E info@gonecrabbing.co.uk
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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. Bestsellers 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.
Burnham Market Pine | Telephone: 01328 738009 | Mobile: 07917 202 529 info@burnhammarketpine.co.uk | www.burnhammarketpine.co.uk
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The county is all about the Great Outdoors and what it offers, year-round and not just as a holiday destination on the Broads or the coast.
SIMPLY A PLACE TO GET OUT AND EXPLORE
Out of season, Norfolk is a wonderful walking, riding, cycling and birdwatching county: to enthusiasts the chance to observe the seasonal habits of birds is as enticing as anything that can be offered in the summer months when swathes of sea-lavender and samphire cover the marshes and children plaster themselves in black mud and jump shrieking with delight into the shallow, warm creeks. Your whole Norfolk experience could be enjoyed on the waters that surround it or on the atmospheric Broads where once long ago hundreds of thousands of tons of peat were dug. On the coast, of course, there is a wealth of nature reserves and pathways for walking, nature trails and bird-watching hides. Titchwell is one of the RSPB’s most popular reserves and many rare species are observed there including avocets, which breed in front of Parrinder hide. And at Cley-nextthe-Sea there is a superb visitors’ centre with the opportunity to survey the marshes, shingle bank and sea and the tumultuous life of natural history. The sounds of birds crying across the huge, wide-open skies are one of the defining features of this endlessly compelling coastline. Of course sailing is a very popular occupation on this coast, and there are a number of clubs and schools offering choices for sailors of all ages and levels of ability. Or you could charter the Thames sailing barge Juno for a wonderful day sailing along the North Norfolk coast, or alternatively mess about for a day on the Broads under your own steam or with an expert crew.
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.
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Holkham beach and village A stunning beach forms the backdrop for Holkham’s grand and stately Hall. HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Holkham’s stunning beach forms the focal point for its rich history. Handcrafted earthworks created by the Celts are still visible in the marsh today, which also served as a crucial entry point for Anglo-Saxon tribes.
The village serves principally as the main entrance to the hall and deer park, or leads to the beach via Lady Anne's Drive. The Nature Reserve here covers 9158 acres, stretching from Wells-next-the-Sea to Burnham Overy, and includes a variety of sites from salt marsh, sand dunes, pine woodland and beach to grazing marsh.
The extensive parkland at Holkham Hall, complete with a lake, woods, obelisk and Coke Monument, offers nature walks and cycling trails, with an imaginative play area for children to let off some steam. Visiting days for Holkham Hall are Sunday, Monday and Thursday.
A fragment of more recent history is Holkham Hall, an 18th-century country house which is still the family home of the Earls of Leicester of Holkham. Luckily, the Hall is open to the public, so you can visit the stunning Palladian Hall, as well as the Marble Hall and sumptuous State Rooms. Be sure not to miss the classical concerts that take place in the Marble Hall.
DON’T MISS Many people rank Holkham beach among the best in the county. Wonderfully unspoilt, it stretches for miles and is just the place for bracing walks or an old fashioned game of beach cricket. If you fancy something a bit different, the coast at Holkham is also ideal for foraging razor clams at low tide. This is always a great way for all the family to have fun for free; all you need is table salt and lots of patience. You might even gather enough for dinner!
Take a wander around Holkham village to explore Adnams Wine Cellar & Kitchen Store and independent retailers Bringing the outside in, Nomad and the Bowerbird and Everything Outdoors.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS JuLY The Holkham Country Fair AuGuST North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival
HOTSPOT The nature reserve also offers the chance to spot brilliant wildlife. It is home to a herd of fallow deer as well as a wintering population of pinkfooted geese.
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The Victoria, NR23 1RG
On top of all that The Holkham Estate has to offer, you’ll find two of the most intriguing shops along the coast. Bringing the outside in and Nomad and the bowerbird, both as curious as their names, are run by husband and wife, Martin and Sarah Billing.
Bringing the outside in, housed in the old village store, embraces the coast – it’s textures, colours and diversity. Even before you step inside you find an alluring collection of found vintage treasures, once through the door you’re surrounded by a tempting and tactile choice of home accessories. Evoking a life inspired by our rugged North Norfolk coastline, carved wooden birds sit nestled beside hand thrown pottery, individual driftwood creations, nautical textiles and creative lighting. Look to the walls and you’ll find evocative, windswept photography by founder and photographer, Martin Billing. Wander through the courtyard to the whelk shed and beach hut to explore and discover more. Stacks of fishermen’s finds, perfect for the garden, mingle with unique pieces perfect for styling your coastal home, or to take home as a memory of the coast.
It’s in the courtyard you’ll find the timber clad nest of Nomad and the Bowerbird. With a love for things well travelled and an eye for the inspiring, Sarah has curated a collection of clothing, homeware and unusual things from around the globe. Clothing includes stylish day to day fashions from Danish brand Soaked In Luxury, proudly uK made Kinky Knickers and new to the nest for 2014, Spanish brand Nice Things with their unique and feminine collection. Bowerbirds are renowned for their nest building skills and exquisite eye for detail, and when it comes to collecting and arranging their finds, this Bowerbird is no different. You’ll find a bright, colourful selection of Danish designed crockery and Portuguese glassware, irresistible Korean stationery, vintage Americana and hand poured candles, along side a collection of inspiring books, all of which are near impossible to resist.
Main Road, Holkham, Norfolk, NR23 1AD Telephone: 01328 71309 Closed Tuesdays www.bringingtheoutsidein.co.uk www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk
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location, location, location
Now with over 2x0 cottages along the coast Norfolk Hideaways, found in all the best locations
visit us on www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk or call 01485 211022
It’s more about a lifestyle than a range of clothing We have a range of country outdoor and lifestyle clothing and gifts. Men’s and ladies ranges from Jack Murphy, Hunter Outdoor, Target Dry, Dents, Alice Collins, Strawberry Bay, Hoggs of Fife, House of Cheviot, Vedoneire, Kanyon Boots, Ruth Lednik & Shire, Tweed Children’s Wear, ThermaCELL and Smidge mosquito and midge repellant. Wildtrack hand painted sculpture, Dimacci bracelets, Oliver Preston and Jason Partner greeting cards. Togs for Dogs neoprene dog coats and Joules dog beds. Open Daily at The Sandringham Visitor Centre
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Sandringham Visitor Centre Sandringham PE35 6EH Tel: 01485 298082 The Reading Rooms Holkham Village Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1RG Tel: 01328 712120 www.everythingoutdoor.co.uk
NORFOLK
Norfolk has 93 miles of coastline laden with unspoilt beaches that are clean, safe and family-friendly. They're great to enjoy throughout the seasons, with most welcoming dog walkers all year round and offering the perfect setting for wildlife spotting.
And it's worth sticking around – all of the beaches listed here have sunsets that are truly breathtaking.
Wells
Here are five of the best:
Brancaster Backed by gorgeous sand dunes and with a peaceful RSPB bird reserve, Brancaster offers an intimate alternative to Hunstanton. A dogfriendly beach, this stretch of coast offers many great walks, starting with the scenic beach route just off Gypsy Lane Walk. Those willing to brave the waters will have a great time swimming, just be mindful that there is no lifeguard service. A picnic is the best bet here or alternatively a tasty lunch at one of the nearby hotels.
Best for privacy and great views from the sand dunes, Wells is full of cosy, quaint beach huts. Be sure to seize the opportunity for the perfect picnic, the best spot being straight out from the huts. A bucket of ice is also handy to keep your drinks cool as it is a long walk back to get provisions. Dogs are allowed all year round on part of the beach. If you are swimming here please note that the tide comes in extremely fast.
Holkham Backed by fragrant pine forests this beach is rather too exposed for a swim, but when the tide is out it stretches for miles, offering a great blank canvas for all sorts of escapades. Why not try a walk, flying a kite, playing boule or cricket, walking the dog or even a spot of of bare-foot running. Whatever you do, you are sure to be undisturbed and invigorated by a brisk wind from the North Sea.
Cromer Cromer has a long family beach overlooked by an impressive Victorian pier. Equipped with its own surf school and an RNLI lifeguard in the summer months, it is one of three beaches awarded the Blue Flag in 2013 for water quality.
Hunstanton This beach is exceptional for exploring after the tide has gone out. Soft shoes are recommended here to avoid scratches, scrapes or sinking into the sand. Not only will it keep the kids happy, it is also a dog-friendly beach where there is ample space for them to run and play.
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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. HISTORY A striking historic feature of the town is the area known as the Buttlands, an expansive green surrounded by lime trees. Large elegant Georgian houses overlook the Buttlands, as do the Crown Hotel, Globe Inn and the Wells Catholic Church. If you exit the Buttlands at its south-west corner you can see Ware Hall, which was rebuilt during the 1970s by Miss May Savidge, who brought it in parts when she moved from Ware in Hertfordshire. Wells was also a significant port in the sixteenth century, with 19 ships over 16 tons operating out of the harbour in 1580, making it the major port in the area.
enjoying a leisurely walk along the footpath leading to the pinewoods and sandy beach beyond. 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. If the thought of a walk is too daunting, there is a miniature steam train that runs down to the beach.
DON’T MISS Wells is a well-known spot for crabbing, a simple pleasure that is sure to get the kids to put down their smart phones and muck in.
next-the-Sea is a typical seaside town that offers the pretty addition of pine forests. The woods comprise of scots pine, maritime pine and corsican pine which all grow on sand. 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. The wide, flat beach with its belt of sheltering pinewoods and brightlycoloured beach huts is the perfect place to unwind, gather shells, run with the dogs or simply have a family picnic. Children can play in the shallow pools, build sandcastles on the sand dunes or fly kites.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
MARKET DAYS The nearest weekly market is at Fakenham on a Thursday or the farmers’ market on the fourth Saturday of the month.
GET YOUR BEARINGS 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, before
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.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE Situated in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty, Wells-
MAY Poetry-next-the-Sea Festival AuGuST Wells Carnival Week SEPTEMBER Wells Pirate Festival DECEMBER Wells Christmas Tide
HOTSPOT The Crown Hotel, NR23 1EX Big Blue Sky, NR23 1QA
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Walsingham A place of faith and pilgrimage, Walsingham has been welcoming visitors since 1061. HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
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.
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 10¼" narrow gauge steam railway in the world offering a scenic journey over five bridges and through lovely countryside.
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.
DON’T MISS
The charm of the village itself makes Walsingham well worth a detour. Its half-timbered buildings set the place aside from other more typical 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 Mary’s house in Nazareth. The holy house is within the Anglican Shrine of Our Lady, while the famous Slipper Chapel is located along the road about a mile away.
Walsingham Abbey, with its ruins of the original priory founded in 1153, is especially beautiful in the depths of february, when the gardens are a swathe of snowdrops so dense you can hardly see where to place your feet! You'll recognise Little Walsingham in particular from movies as it has often been used as a film location. Most recently, The Abbey appeared in the Stephen Poliakoff hit film, Glorious 39. To rest your feet after sightseeing, why not try a spot of horse riding at the North Norfolk Riding Centre, which offers an hours’ ride for just twenty pounds. A small but wellequipped stable, it is located in Little Walsingham.
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HOTSPOTS Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, Norton Café bar underneath the rectory. The Bull Inn, NR22 6BP
ALDEBURGH O&C Butcher 01728 452229 BILLERICAY Allweathers 01268 293712 BISHOPÂ&#x2019;S STORTFORD Nomad 01279 653694 BURNHAM MARKET The Hat Shop 01328 738267 BURY ST EDMONDS Stepping Out 01284 763150 CAMBRIDGE Open Air 01223 324666 CANVEY ISLAND Camping & General 01268 692141 FELIXSTOWE Coes 01394 282414 FRAMLINGHAM Trulock & Harris 01728 724776
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Blakeney A fascinating combination of countryside and coast offering art, al fresco eating and unique wildlife.
HISTORY
DON’T MISS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Once a major and thriving port, Blakeney harbour gradually silted up to form the tranquil nature reserve that we know today. Reputedly, old smuggling tunnels ran across the village from the marsh to the 14thcentury Guildhall, the remains of which can still be seen today.
The coastal village is home to three engaging galleries that exhibit the work of a variety of established artists, some local and others from further afield. The Flint Gallery, located just back from the quay, exhibits the very finest in contemporary art inspired by the region’s beautiful scenery. Also, Quay Art, located at the bottom of High Street, displays original paintings, prints, linocuts, etchings and photographs.
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 catching crabs in buckets down at the Quay while the adults buy huge bags of mussels from the fishmonger.
MARKET DAYS Blakeney has a farmers’ market on the first Monday of the month.
GET YOUR BEARINGS This stretch of coast is, arguably, most famous for its astonishing variety of wildlife. Heaven for bird-watchers and naturalists, a highlight is the Wildfowl Collection just across the road from the Manor Hotel. Coastal paths allow links with the neighbouring villages of Cley-next-the-Sea and Morston.
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Blakeney Hotel has superb views over the marshes - the perfect place to take in the view after a bracing walk. If you decide to picnic on the beach or at the Wenchford Picnic site then head up to Blakeney Delicatessen for provisions.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS JuLY Blakeney Sailing Club Regatta & Aquatic Sports Day Blakeney Book Fair www.davidfordbooks.co.uk
HOTSPOT Blakeney White Horse, NR25 7AL
ga n lle ew ry la no rg w er CONTEMPORARY FINE NE E ART AR op en
theflintgallery allery alle lery ler
Quay Art
paintings sculpture ceramics
Find us at our new location at the end of The Quay.
Westgate Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7NQ 01263 741791 www.theflintgallery.co.uk
PICTURES SCULPTURE POTTERY JEWELLERY 4 The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7AL Tel:01263 740013
Blakeney
LEISURE CLOTHING GIFTS
CRABBING STATION
BEACH ACCESSORIES
TOYS
Visit our shop on the High Street where every item has been hand created by craftspeople in WESTGATE STREET, BLAKENEY, NR25 7NQ
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TEMPLES SEAL TRIPS Booking these trips is strongly recommended.
Temple's Seal Trips, with their distinctive red and white boats, depart daily from Morston Quay 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. Trips take about an hour, with up to an hour extra time landing on the point when tide allows. Norfolk mostly has common seals in the summer months, who arrive at Blakeney Point to have their pups. The pups start being born around 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.
lay their eggs. After hatching, the chicks can be seen running along the shoreline near the seals.
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
Visit our ticket office at The Anchor Pub in Morston. All boats depart from Morston Quay, Morston, Nr. Blakeney. Sat Nav NR25 7AA
The Blakeney Cottage Company... specialising in luxury self-catering holiday properties in North Norfolk ranging from romantic hideaways to deluxe barn conversions with coastal views. Relax and enjoy a stay in one of our stunning holiday cottages, after all, you are in safe hands… 01263 741777
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www.blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk
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!
01263 740791 www.sealtrips.co.uk
Cley-next-the-Sea An area of Outstanding Natural Beauty-wander through the reed beds of the Cley Marshes.
HISTORY Before becoming a popular holiday resort in the late Victorian era, Cley was one of the busiest ports in England, where grain, fish, spices, coal, cloth, and oats were traded. The many Flemish gables in the town are a pleasant reminder of commerce with the Low Countries. The port silted up in the late 19th- century, providing an opportunity for tourism to thrive.
Nearby is the beautiful Glandford Valley where the elegant Bayfield Hall has The Old Stables, an emporium of upmarket interiors and gifts in a lovely historic setting.
Food plays a big part of village life with Cley Smoke House and Picnic Fayre, a well established deli, which has everything from an organic wine cellar to masses of locally produced fruit and vegetables.
DON’T MISS
The village is also home to two galleries. Made in Cley is a co-operative of craftsmen and women and Pinkfoot Gallery presents work by local artists. The nearby Shell Museum makes for a worthwhile trip, as it features a quirky Victorian collection of shells, fossils and other miscellaneous treasures.
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!
MARKET DAYS The nearest is found at Blakeney’s farmers’ market on the first Monday of the month.
GET YOUR BEARINGS Cley, pronounced so it rhymes with pie, is a pretty village protected by an immense shingle bank, not far from Holt. The shingle beach at Cley can be accessed via Beach Road by car or along one of the footpaths through the marshes. The beach is suitable for sea fishing and there is parking at the beach Car Park.
Don’t leave the village without visiting one of the county’s most iconic landmarks, the Cley windmill. Dating back to 1819, it was once an emblem of the BBC and now operates as a guesthouse with both B&B and selfcatering options.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE 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.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Birdwatching events at the Norfolk Wildlife Trust www.cleybirdclub.org.uk
HOTSPOT The George Hotel, NR25 7RN
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Five miles of birdwatchers’ paradise... and it’s about to get even better Cley-next-the-sea is a name that for many brings to mind some of the best birdwatching experiences there are to be had in the uK. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust's reserve with its vast expanses of reed bed and pools is just a part of a larger landscape of interesting habitat stretching from Blakeney Point in the west to Salthouse and Kelling in the east. The significance of the Norfolk coast and its hinterland habitats for breeding and migrating birds is huge. Together with the National Trust, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT) cares for some of the most important areas. The recent purchase of Pope’s Marsh between Cley and Salthouse fits a piece into the
jigsaw that no one ever thought would be available. These 143 acres of marsh, which were historically shot by wildfowlers, have been saved by the NWT thanks to donations by the public and a substantial grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The acquisition of this land has completed a continuous five mile section of coast and marshland being cared for by conservation charities. The NWT has had a challenging year of fund raising with two major projects coinciding. The planning of an education centre, extending the existing visitor centre in the same lowimpact green-build style, was already in motion when the unique
opportunity of Pope’s Marsh presented itself. Plans are now coming to fruition with work due to begin on the Simon Aspinall Wildlife Education Centre in 2014 and planning the future restoration, management and public access to Pope’s Marsh is already in progress. The existing NWT visitor centre at Cley and Cley Spy's branch in the adjoining thatched Dick BagnallOakeley building are situated on a chalk mound and so offer an unrivalled elevated view over the reserve. From here you can enjoy a cup of coffee or test out optical equipment looking at one of the uK's legendary wildlife destinations.
Backgound photo © Mike Page
Artist’s impression How the new Simon Aspinall building will look, adjoining the existing Visitor Centre at Cley.
Simon Aspinall 1958-2011
Image © LSI Architects
Photo © Sharif Jbour
CleySpy has been trading for over twelve years and offers an unrivalled range of binoculars, telescopes and eyepieces, it is 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.
CleySpy All types of optics for all types of people Manor Farm Barns, Glandford Holt, Norfolk, NR25 7JP and Cley Matshes Visitor Centre
01263 740088 www.cleyspy.co.uk
As he says, “No one likes impatient sales people who try to push you into a 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 £30 or £3000. “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 manufacturers such as Leica, Zeiss and Swarovski you can take all the time needed to assess the equipment. “In our 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.” Follow us on...
Open daily 10am-5pm (10am-4pm Sundays/Bank holidays)
Backgound photo © Phil Farndon
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Holt Georgian Holt has a real cosmopolitan air and counts the Duchess of Cornwall amongst its fans. HISTORY
DON’T MISS
The town dates back to Roman times and is mentioned in the Domesday Book, with the name Holt thought to derive from the Anglo-Saxon for ‘woodland’. unfortunately, a fire largely destroyed the medieval foundations of the town within just three hours in 1708. However, the reconstruction of the town has given Holt the gift of its distinctive Georgian architecture.
Close to the town centre stands Holt Station – 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 to take a closer look at this picturesque station. 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.
MARKET DAYS
store. Another draw to the town are the variety of art galleries, ranging from the Red Dot Gallery with its eclectic collection of contemporary work, to Jeremy Barlow Fine Art Gallery and Picturecraft, a much loved gallery held in great affection locally. When you get peckish, try the newly established Folly Tea Rooms, tucked away in Hoppers Yard, the secluded walled garden offers a welcome respite from this busy town.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS Holt holds a farmers’ market the 2nd Thursday of the month.
GET YOUR BEARINGS Holt has become a desirable destination for either day or weekend trips. 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.
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Also worthy of a visit is Letheringsett Mill, the last watermill in Norfolk that still produces flour. Lovingly restored, it grinds organic wheat and is open 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE The small market-place is lined with gorgeous shops from the Fortnum & Mason of Norfolk – Bakers and Larners – which is also a major department
JuNE North Norfolk Railway Gala JuLY Holt Festival North Norfolk Railway Beer Festival AuGuST Voewood Festival
HOTSPOT Adrian Hill Fine Art, NR25 6HS Back to the Garden, NR25 7JJ
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One of the country’s most distinguished landscape painters, Jeremy Barlow has exhibited widely both in this country and in Europe. From the striking skies of the Norfolk coastline to the relaxed outdoor life of the Mediterranean, he spends considerable time painting in France, Italy and Spain. Take a journey from North Norfolk through to Paris, the French Riviera, Venice, Rome and beyond.
Set amongst the bustle of the busy North Norfolk market town of Holt lies an unlikely haven for the very finest examples of contemporary British art. e artists featured in the gallery are all members of at least one of the major National Institutions in Great Britain, including e Royal Academy, e Royal Institute of Oil Painters, e Royal Society of British Artists, e Pastel Society and e Royal Society of Painters in Watercolours.
e variety of work exhibited is extensive from topographical works in oil, watercolour and pastel through to vibrant, impressionistic still life studies to the calm, restful watercolours of coastal scenes and quirky surrealistic studies of every day life. In addition to the ever changing exhibition of original works, a collection of low edition fine art archival prints, each individually signed by the artist, can also be viewed either in the gallery or online.
JEREMY BARLOW FINE ART e Manor House, 15 High Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6BN Telephone: 01263 713311 Open Monday – Saturday, 10am-5pm www.jeremybarlowonline.com www.jeremybarlowfineart.co.uk the of NORFOLK 45
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT? Independently run shops are an integral part of Britain's heritage. Known as a 'nation of shopkeepers', our country has a wonderful array of small, independent shops for us to delight in. However, with the increasing strength of multiple retailers and national chains, a high street of independent shops now seems as rare as gold dust. Luckily for us, North Norfolk still has plenty of locally run businesses to tempt shoppers in... High streets across the country can often feel the same: crammed full of corporate giants, nationwide chains
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and boring, bland shops selling similar things. Although these can offer good money saving ideas, it really is the uniqueness, creativity and character of independent shops that make a shopping experience so special and diverse. Plus, it's not just the contents or the shopkeepers of these small independent shops which should tempt shoppers in: spending in these also help the local economy. A recent FSB report findings highlight how
doing business locally is better value for money as small local firms generated £746 million more for the local economy compared to large local businesses – even though more than £500 million less was spent with them. The research shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business (SME) 63p was re-spent in the local area compared to 40p in every £1 spent with a larger business. continued on page 48
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UNEXPECTED TREASURES ESCAPE THE STRESSES OF EVERYDAY LIFE AND BE ENCHANTED BY THE MUST VISIT DESTINATION IN HOLT - HOPPERS YARD. YOU CAN BROWSE IN ITS EXCITING MIX OF SHOPS THEN TAKE TEA IN THE FOLLY TEAROOM OR ITS 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
Photo used by kind permission of Morston Town & Country
North Norfolk, with its many small, pretty market towns is a shoppers dream come true – and with thriving independent shops lining the high streets shopping has never felt less guilty. Popular places such as Creake Abbey, Drove Orchards and Wiverton Hall are all dynamic shopping and dining enviroments that have sprung up close to established towns. Indeed, tasty local food is a common theme running through North Norfolk and there are a variety of delightful delicatessens and food shops dotted around – why not try a crab sandwich at Cookie's Crab Shop or a bowl of mussels at Creake Abbey's Cafe and Food Hall? For other shops, the Georgian town Holt is particularly popular, having a range of fantastic local businesses. Holt is also well known for its collection of galleries, where art-lovers can wonder at the paintings, jewellery, sculptures and ceramics for sale.
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Bakers and Larners in Holt are worth a further mention. Described as ‘East Anglian’s answer to Fortnum & Mason’, this is a unique department store originating back to the 1770s and is still in the founding family's hands today. Stocking many famous brands, with products ranging from garden tools to books and clothes, the store also sells locally produced and organic food in the deli which boasts a myriad of different products. As well as Holt, Burnham Market has a strong reputation for its eclectic and unique mix of independent shops and has become remarkably popular.
The chic boutiques and jewellers are perfect for those wanting exclusive and elegant pieces that no-one else will be wearing. These pretty towns and villages pride themselves on the quality of their independent shops and take great pleasure in providing excellent service for all their visitors. So, go on... why not treat yourself to something different and help the local economy too?
THE RED DOT GALLERY 2 LYLES COURT, LEES YARD, HOLT NORFOLK. NR25 6HS. 01263 710287 sales@thereddotgallery.com www.thereddotgallery.com
PAINTINGS, PRINTS, SCULPTURE & CUSHIONS UPON A CANINE THEME
Morston Town & Country 9 Shirehall Plain, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HT | 01263 713545 | nikola@morstoncountrysports.co.uk
MORSTON town & country Stockists of beautiful and stylish wax, tweed and fur clothing with sumptuous accessories and footwear. Extensive ranges of modern tailoring that retain a strong commitment to classic British heritage. Ranges that epitomise individuality, precision of fit, perfection of colour, and attention to detail. Above all, Morston Town & Country offer you understated luxury.
Morston Country Sports 10-12 Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HP | 01263 713932
the path to creative styling and colour. ..
APPOINTMENT
PERSONAL STYLING FASHION & ACCESSORIES
33 High Street l Holt l Norfolk l NR25 6BN Tel: 01263 711230 l website: www.nicholsonsuk.com ...and find us on FACEBOOK too!
Open Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm
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
River trips and self drive boats on the Norfolk Broads
Discover the Magic of the Broads! River Trips on the magical Broads!
What better way to discover the diversity of this enchanting landscape than to relax on one of our river trips, with entertaining live commentary, light refreshments and a licensed bar.
Day boat hire - enjoy at your own pace! Or if you would rather be at the helm yourself, then pack a picnic, hire a boat by the hour or day and allow the Broads to reveal its wonders at your own pace. To experience the special magic of the Broads, call us or visit our website www.broadstours.co.uk Broads Tours The Bridge Wroxham Norfolk NR12 8RX
01603 782207 www.broadstours.co.uk
52 the of Norfolk
THE PHEASANT HOTEL
your coastal country home
From whichever direction you approach the Pheasant the gentle rolling Kelling Heath and the expansive Norfolk countryside surrounds you. The huge, magnificent sky uplifts you, and the coastland with its breathtaking ever-changing seascape greets you. Whether in bright sunshine, or dark and atmospheric, the location of the Pheasant Hotel is absolutely stunning. The Pheasant Hotel is a very comfortable country hotel, privately owned and set in the beautiful, unique countryside of Kelling Heath on the North Norfolk Coast.
The hotel is a short five minute drive from the beautiful Georgian town of Holt with its charming shops and galleries. It is perfectly placed to visit the wonderful beaches and marshland of Salthouse, Cley, Blakeney, Morston and Wells. It is an ideal place to enjoy spectacular bird watching, fantastic walks along the North Norfolk Coastal paths and all of the leisure activities along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
The Pheasant Hotel is a perfect place to dine, relax and unwind. It has 32 bedrooms, eight of which are our feature rooms located on the first floor, many of which have beautiful views. They are luxuriously decorated to high standard with fresh fruit and homemade cookies on arrival. Our luxury doubles are also fabulous, with sumptuous super king beds, free wi-fi, high def televisions, there's a family size room available, interconnecting rooms, and we can provide cots.
& Restaurant
Kelling, North Norfolk NR25 7EG
01263 588382
enquiries@pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk
www.pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk
Step iNto Marrakech â&#x20AC;&#x201C; oNly a Mile froM holt!
Discover the sumptuous colour of the Moroccan world. Enjoy a glass of mint tea as Berber introduces you to their collection of rugs, mirrors, bags, lamps and lots more!
Take the road from Holt to Cley, after a mile you will see signs to Berber. The trip is then one of discovery – the road winds up the hill to a magnificent flint barn where you will find Berber which features Moroccan design on two floors.
number from the design of the Beni Ouarain tribe. Some of the brighter colours come from a cooperative in Sidi Moktar where a proportion of the money they earn, from their rug making, goes to help fund the medicine for the village.
Berber enjoys the privilege of having a number of artisans in Morocco mainly around the Marrakech area making for them. These are mostly small family businesses discovered over the years by John Pryor, who was inspired by their work when he started the business in 2007. The original collection started with silver and bone mirrors, leather furniture, handmade throws, tadelakt pots and has increased substantially over time.
You will also find a selection of large garden pots, mosaic tables, lanterns, candles and fountains creating a wonderful atmosphere for your garden or conservatory.
The rugs come from several areas of Morocco. These consist of Kilims, 3 Technique, Sabras, Handiras also a
There is inspiration to be found for everyone whether you are furnishing your home or just looking for a gift.
Customers and Interior Designers find Berber an invaluable source for bespoke pieces that can be made to order with a reputable service that follows right through from design to delivery.
Bayfield Brecks, New road, Holt, Nr25 7DZ Telephone: 01263 715555. Open 7 days a week – 10am to 4pm how to find us From Holt Town centre, turn down New road, (Barclays Bank on the Corner), in the direction of Cley for one and a half miles.
info@berberinteriors.com | www.berberinteriors.com
SCAN HErE FOr exclusive reader offers the of Norfolk 55
Norfolk is a real playground for children – it's packed with adventure to suit all ages and interests
children’s Norfolk bewilderwood 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. Hoveton 01692 633033.
go ape For a true taste of the wilderness Go Ape in Thetford Forest has it all, whether you fancy exploring the forest on a Segway or finding your inner Tarzan and swinging through these ancient woods. You’ll need to be over 10 years old and 1.4m tall, but younger ones can still enjoy the Go Ape Tree Top Junior Adventure. Prices start at £16. To check availability or book online visit: goape.co.uk/booking or phone 0845 094 8738.
bird waTching The North Norfolk coast is the best place to learn about birds and the rSPB run events throughout the year for everything from beginning birding to Titchwell's fabulous wildlife. Check the website for the events and a range of activities to get you started. www.rspb.org.uk/youth
Take To The waTer in a boaT When the sun is out there is nothing better than soaking up some rays on a rowing boat. Paddle about on Norfolk's pretty lakes until you find the perfect spot for a picnic. You will find boats to hire all over the county from the start of the Broads at Beccles to Holkham on the North Norfolk coast. If you are going to Holkham be sure to check out the imaginative play area on the estate. the Beccles canoe centre: 01502 677343 www.becclescanoecentre.co.uk holkham lake: 01328 713111 www.holkham.co.uk 56 the of Norfolk
beccles lido and big dog ferry
go lake swimming If you're feeling adventurous, Fritton Lake on the Somerleyton estate offers a flawless setting for a natural dip. It is one of the loveliest stretches of water in East Anglia, which can be enjoyed for a charge of £6 per session. If the weather is too chilly for a swim, bike hire is also available so you can explore the estate on land along with the adventure playground and pitch & put.
Nothing beats swimming outdoors so why not visit Beccles Lido, the heated open-air pool in Beccles with slide, springboard, giant inflatable, grassy areas, sunloungers, tables and chairs to relax on. By the river Waveney our café serves hot and cold snacks, drinks and ices, perfect for a swim or a family day out. You can also take a river trip on Big Dog Ferry to the historic Locks Inn, Geldeston. 01502 713297 www.beccleslido.com 07532 072761 www.bigdogferry.co.uk
frittonlake.info
no maTTer whaT The weaTher The Sainsbury’s Centre offers regular events for families and children all year round. Pre-school kids can join in creative play with Mini-Studio while older children can enjoy a range of workshops, including a Saturday Art Club. During the school holidays, there are free activities for families to do together at the art table. Activities are linked to a favourite object or group of objects from the collection, and it’s all free. Also, the gallery is set in parkland so you can let off some steam! www.scva.ac.uk
fishing on The broads
a Journey on a sTeam Train Bressingham has over four miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four magnificent journeys to choose from. The long track of the Nursery railway leaves from the museum building, passing locomotive sheds and a lake before crossing over the Waveney Valley Line. Here, passengers get their first sight of the 15-inch gauge engines waiting to begin their journey from Lakeside station. Check the website for the daily timetable at www.bressingham.co.uk
crabbing aT sheringham and cromer Taking the children crabbing on the Sheringham Prom or the Pier at Cromer adds something special to a family day out and is a truly British pastime. What's more, it won't break the bank; all you need is a piece of string, old scraps of meat or fish and a weight. To let you in on a local tip, grab some frozen sand eels from a fishing shop – for crabs they are as irresistible as caviar. After throwing these morsels off the footbridge, you won't have to wait long for the pincers to grab on. A timeless source of fun for adults and children alike.
The broads is home to a large range of fish species, including bream, eel, pike and rudd. For those aged 12 or over, all you need to fish is a current Environment Agency licence, available from post offices. You can fish from the bank, hire a day boat or use one of the many fishing platforms. It is useful to note the closed season for the broads and rivers is 15th March to 16th June inclusive.
riding Mount Pleasant Equestrian Centre is a BHS approved riding school and livery yard located just off the A149, just 20 minutes from King's Lynn. They provide riding lessons for all ages from complete beginner to advanced, with prices starting at £17 for half an hours group lesson. They also hold junior and senior summer camps over several days. Check the website for details www.mountpleasant equestriancentre.co.uk.
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Sheringham A traditional fishing resort with a great Victorian past. hisTory
geT your bearings
Things To do and see
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 splendid Victorian or 20th-century grander suburban homes, some perched high on the hill above sea level, 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.
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.
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. Make time to climb the viewing towers and soak it all in on a clear day you'll see for miles and miles! The Christmas panto is always first class while the summer season is jam packed with children's shows, popular movies, comedy acts and more. Children will clamour to be taken to the Splash Leisure Centre, an absolute must on wet days and great family fun at any time. And don't miss the chilli festival in August that can be a sizzling affair!
Felbrigg Hall is a magnificent 17thcentury country house estate that still manages to retain a homely feel. Check out the dining room, which is laid out for a 1860s 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 café.
don’T miss
markeT days On Wednesdays and Saturdays there is a thriving market at the Blue Flag beach. This seaside stretch is one of the town’s greatest attractions, a classic British seaside resort under the cliffs.
58 the of Norfolk
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.
Two nearby National Trust properties are worth exploring. Sheringham Park offers several well-marked walks, with glimpses of the sea, including one designed for wheelchair 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.
shows, fesTivals and evenTs JuNE north norfolk railway gala JuLY north norfolk railway beer festival AuGuST sheringham carnival chilli festival, felbrigg hall
hoTspoT The Mo Sheringham Museum, Nr26 8BG
Blyth & Wright Traditional Ironmongers since 1897 We are perhaps the largest independent ironmongers in East Anglia, offering traditional services, products and values. handmade iron door and window frames • loose nails, screws, bolts and washers • a wide range of hand tools chain and rope cut to length • plumbing and electrical fittings and much, much more...
CHINA CRAFT We offer ranges from some of the most famous china and pottery brands including: Moorcroft • Emma Bridgewater • Poole Pottery • Border Fine Art • Portmeirion • Aynsley • Franz
34/40 Station Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RQ Telephone: 01263 823258 www.blythandwright.co.uk
I bet we’ve got it!
Cromer Known by the Edwardians as the Gem of the Norfolk Coast, Cromer remains a fun-filled family resort. hisTory
geT your bearings
don’T miss
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.
The Bittern Line links Norwich with Cromer and Sheringham by train and somehow, if you have the time, an appropriate way of arriving at this seaside spot that developed thanks to the invention of the railway.
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.
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.
An excursion that should not be missed is the walk to Cromer lighthouse it can be reached either from Cromer itself (turning right at the pier and walking along the Esplanade) or from the Overstrand clifftop car park, where 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 half a mile from the cliff edge, was built in 1833 and converted to electric operation in 1958. In June 1990 the station became automatic and is now monitored from Harwich.
markeT days There is a market held every first and third Friday in Cromer selling mainly food, crafts and plants.
If you want to get away from it all, two miles east of Cromer is Overstrand beach – great for fossil collecting with a very large sandy beach that at low tide is backed by grassy cliffs. It is an ideal beach for swimming and for families with children. When the tide retreats there are sandy pools for paddling and playing in. remember to sample the famous Cromer crab or a good old-fashioned portion of fish and chips – try Mary Jane’s for the freshest in town or you could opt for the Galton Blackiston's new fish-and-chip restaurant, No 1 Cromer. continued on page 62
60 the of Norfolk
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 non-residents 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 four 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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ENJOY THE PERFECT BREAK “If you want a base to tour the Norfolk coast it would be hard to beat Cromer Country Club Club.” TripAdvisor May 2013
at Cromer Country Club
AMENITIES INCLUDE:
Perched along the North Norfolk coast, the seaside village of Cromer is best known for its fresh crabs, beautiful beaches and rich fishing heritage. Stroll along Cromer’s quaint streets and shop for souvenirs, market goods, high-end fashions or arts and crafts. Discover variety shows and live entertainment at the theatre on the pier, or dine at the local restaurants and cozy cafés.
• A fully-equipped kitchen
A coastal resort with a charming appeal, Cromer Country Club offers practical and modern conveniences for an elevated standard of comfort. Well-appointed furnishings and spacious accommodations afford the ultimate in relaxation.
• Full bathroom • State-of-the-art fitness centre • Steam room • Whirlpool • Indoor swimming pool • WiFi access in all apartments (fee) • Ironing facilities • DVD players and a television with free-view satellite TV
0800 358 6991
Cromer
DiamondResortsandHotels.com
16963.1013
For bookings please call
continued
Things To do and see 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 although the climb is steep and somewhat demanding, the view from the top is well worth the effort and it is 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.
62 the best of Norfolk
Cromer is fast becoming an ‘in’ destination for surfers, with a surf school in the summer and many competitions. Cromer Carnival is one of the biggest in East Anglia, with events staged throughout the town. In Summer, there's crabbing off the pier or a trip to Cromer Pier's infamous seaside special show. At nearby West runton, where a fossilised mammoth was discovered in the cliffs in 1990, you can go rockpooling and the village’s Shire Horse Centre is where you can admire heavy horses at work – and go riding yourself.
shows, fesTivals and evenTs MAY The cromer and sheringham crab and lobster festival AuGuST cromer carnival OCTOBEr/NOVEMBEr cromer & sheringham arts festival (film and photography focus)
hoTspoT The red Lion, Nr27 9HD
peddars way A truly national trail
The Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path is the necklace that links two great natural areas, the Brecks and the Norfolk Coast AONB and in between a string of gems, small villages and great coastal and market towns The route is really two national trails in one. The historic roman Peddars Way that starts in the unique Brecks region then passes through the chalk uplands of north west Norfolk before joining the Norfolk Coast Path at Holme-next-the-Sea. Whereas the roman route through the Brecks, on the whole, shuns habitation, the Norfolk Coast Path seamlessly joins all of the coastal towns and villages between Hunstanton and Cromer. The path is an intoxicating mix of salt-marsh, grazing meadow, sanddune, glacial moraine cliff, flint and chalk-built villages and towns.
The whole walk is 93 miles from Knettishall Heath in Suffolk to Cromer! But you can just dip into sections of the route, cycle parts of the Peddars Way or wander along the Norfolk Coast Path. Try taking the Coasthopper bus service to Burnham Deepdale, have coffee in the outstanding café and then walk to Burnham Overy Staithe or take the same bus to Holme-next-the-Sea and walk to Thornham or from Stiffkey to Morston.
To plan your walk, scan here:
For the latest Coasthopper timetable, scan here:
You can also Join the Peddars Way at North Pickenham and cycle to Castle Acre, or walk from Knettishall Heath to Stonebridge or the Pingo Trail, which uses part of the Peddars Way at Stow Bedon. The possibilities are endless.
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pubs walks We have paired a selection of great circular walks with some brilliant pubs that are well worth a visit. all the pubs have car parks, but out of courtesy, check before you leave your car there unattended, especially if you plan to walk first and visit the pub later. Simply put on your boots, scan the Qr code, download your map and off you go…
felbrigg hall and The gunton arms
Just a short 20-minute drive from Felbrigg Hall, with its sumptuous Stuart architecture and fascinating history is The Gunton Arms. A kind of rock'n'roll hunting lodge, filled with overspill pieces from Ivor Braka’s collection of modern art. Don’t miss the theatre of real flame cooking in the Elk room, overseen with great skill by chef Stuart Tattersall, who cooks from local ingredients including venison from the surrounding deer park. There's also a proper pub bit, smelling of beer and wood-smoke, with a pool table and dartboard. The Gunton Arms, Cromer road, Thorpe Market, Norwich Nr11 8TZ. 01263 832010 www.theguntonarms.co.uk Felbrigg Hall, Gardens and Estate Nr11 8Pr. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Download this varied circular walk through open fields and woods, passing a church, lake and ice house, at just under three miles it's a perfect distance to work up an appetite! Mapped route available here:
brancaster staithe wildlife walk and The white horse or The duck inn, stanhoe
Wander through Brancaster Staithe and enjoy the beautiful sights of the coast and its wildlife. There are excellent views from Barrow Common and the chance to see the site of Brandounum roman Fort. The White Horse is gloriously situated overlooking the Coastal Path and its conservatory restaurant with deck terrace is one of the best places to witness spectacular sunsets over Scolt Head Island. The food is pretty appealing too, with two AA rosette’s for the past four year’s, Head Chef, Avrum Frankel, creates a menu that includes much local produce cooked simply but with skill and culinary flair. The White Horse, Main road, Brancaster Staithe, PE31 8BY. 01485 210262 www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk Alternatively hop in the car and drive the short distance – about 15 minutes – to the Duck Inn at Stanhoe. rapidly establishing itself as a key foodie destination Ben and Sarah Handley’s pleasant and unassuming venue masks a pub with a passionate heart. Daily changing specials make full use of the seasons and wonderful Norfolk produce. Don’t miss their 'Bar Bites', which will impress – including the now famous 'Mr H' scotch egg or their lager & lime whitebait. The Duck Inn, Burnham road, Stanhoe, King’s Lynn, PE31 8QD. 01485 518330 wwwduckinn.co.uk Download this moderately graded circular route that passes along permissive footpaths. It’s just under four miles long and should take around two hours. Mapped route available here:
great massingham strollers and The dabbling duck
The Massingham Strollers is a walking group who arrange regular Sunday morning rambles around the many footpaths in the area. Anyone can join in, and visitors are most welcome. They publish a series of walks of varying lengths on their community website. The Dabbling Duck pub was opened in 2006 as the result of a tireless community action group and a far-sighted local authority's six-year campaign to prevent the beautiful old building from being converted into housing. It not only plays a vital part in the heart of the local community but also offers outstanding food and drink to hungry and thirsty travellers. One to watch! The Dabbling Duck, 11 Abbey road, Great Massingham PE32 2HN. 01485 520827 www.thedabblingduck.co.uk Download either a short walk around Massingham, which is additionally suitable for wheelchairs and packed with points of interest or a much longer nine-mile walk that traverses Peddars Way. Mapped routes available here:
64 the of Norfolk
Explore and discover North West Norfolk from The lodge
This walk combines a stretch of the North Norfolk Coastal Path with a path through ringstead Downs, one of Norfolk’s rare areas of downland. On Thursdays only it also offers an opportunity to walk through the private Hunstanton Park with views of the moated Hunstanton Hall once the home of the Le Strange family. The reason for the rather strange situation, limiting access to Thursday only, is steeped in history. The Le Strange family has occupied this land since the family came to England with William the Conqueror. In medieval times they allowed the local population access to the park on
Thursdays to gather firewood ‘by hook or by crook’. Although there is no longer a need for firewood, the tradition of access each Thursday has been maintained and is greatly appreciated by local walkers. This walk will take approximately 3.5 hours at a good pace, walking footwear is recommended, as paths may be slippery or uneven. Before you leave you can order a packed lunch from The Lodge, 01485 532896 or after your walk pop in for a refreshing drink or delicious bar meal. Or, why not make a weekend of it and book into their luxurious yet affordable accommodation.
The Lodge makes an excellent base for exploring all that the beautiful coastline of North West Norfolk has to offer. www.thelodgehunstanton.co.uk
Scan here to use this map on your walk:
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THE BRECKS embrace the space in the Brecks – If you think Norfolk is all about its coast, the Broads or Norwich then think again. For those in search of new experiences, the Brecks is the place for you.
66 the of Norfolk
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k u . o c . e p a o g t a k o Bo or call 0845 094 8738 ly - please see the website. Participation and supervision ratios app
Photo used by kind permission of Nick Ford
Swaffham A medieval town next to a unique landscape. hisTory
geT your bearings
Things To do and see
Swaffham is a fine market town in the Brecks that expanded during Norfolk’s wealthy medieval agricultural past as a centre for trading wool. It 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.
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.
There are ample cafes and restaurants to enjoy while visiting the town’s mustsees – 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 worldrenowned discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen, and the uK’s largest solar panel tracking system at the Ecotech Centre.
The Brecks area contains some unusual features whose origins go back to the Ice Ages, like Pingo ponds. 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.
markeT days 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 (first and third Sunday) and a variety of indoor stalls and craft fairs in the beautifully restored Assembly rooms.
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To fully appreciate the area’s environment and heritage, you will need walking boots or a bicycle, to explore Peddar’s Way, and the many accessible footpaths rich in wildlife, including rare species such as the stone curlew, nightjar and woodlark, which can be viewed at Weeting Heath.
don’T miss 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 (just 10 minutes away by car) It has a food and craft market every Friday.
shows, fesTivals and evenTs JuNE cycling and walking festival AuGuST swaffham free music festival SEPTEMBEr food and drink festival OCTOBEr visual arts festival
hoTspoT Market Cross Café, PE37 7AB CoCoes Café Deli, PE37 7NH
THE BrECKS
Nestled on the Suffolk and Norfolk borders the Brecks is an increasingly popular jewel of east anglia. Many pass straight through on tree-lined roads such as the a11 or a1065 without knowing what they are missing. Beyond the trees lies an amazing mix of family fun, recreation, scenery and heritage for you to explore.
Stretching from Bury St Edmunds in the south to Swaffham and Castle Acre in the north it provides a concentrated and diverse visitor offer. You can even see the first marks on the landscape left by Neolithic settlers with worked animal bones and flint tools mined on an industrial scale at English Heritage’s Grimes Graves. rabbit warrening on open heaths during the middle- ages extending from Mildenhall to Swaffham. As a result the area supports almost a third of the uK’s species of conservation concern in just 0.4% of the land area. Warreners watched over their rabbits from fortified lodges, two of which you can still see at Mildenhall and Thetford. Many heaths remain including Brettenham, Weeting and Cavenham where visitors can open their eyes, fill their lungs to ‘Embrace the Space’ of the Brecks. This free draining soil and 60% average national rainfall make it a great place to camp in one of the many well- equipped campsites here. Thetford and Kings Forest form the largest lowland forest in the uK and are great places to explore on foot, cycle or horseback. High Lodge is a great place to explore the thrills of high wire family fun in the tree canopy with GoApe, test your balancing skills on the Segway or mountain bike trails, catch a summer Forest Concert or just a quiet walk with a bite to eat. continued on page 72
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Strattons is an award winning family run boutique hotel secluded in the historic Market town of Swaffham with a reputation for strong environmental ethics. Recent awards include International Hotel Awards 5* Small Hotel for the UK and Green Tourism Business Scheme's Gold star. 14 individual, sumptuous eclectic bedrooms and suites; maybe a carved fourposter bed; an open fire; a freestanding bath at the foot of the bed with room for two; a mermaid mosaic; a cow hide or two; antiques and art; contemporary cool; original period features, a huge private decked balcony or a cinema screen.
The award winning restaurant is open every evening from 6.30pm and every Sunday for Lunch. Everything is made on site and the kitchen has a committed philosophy to use the plentiful and abundant seasonal produce on its own Norfolk doorstep including eggs from the hotels hens and fruit from the orchard. On the menu you might see Baked Cromer crab in a Brittany style or Rare breed Pork Belly with stoved Maris Peer potatoes, baby carrots, cauliflower cheese, roasted plums and cider gravy or Squidgy chocolate beetroot brownie, strawberry ice cream and macerated strawberries.
The slick Print rooms, formally a printing workshop owned by local printing family the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Coesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, now two stylish one bedroom apartments complete with kitchen, dining area, lounge, cinema screens and surround sound.
Open most days offering fresh, wholesome, nourishing and delicious food using local producers and suppliers. Pop in for great coffee, triple alliance teas, organic wine, local beers, homemade cakes & cookies, all day breakfast or a proper lunch, light bites and tasty take out. Take home freshly baked bread, organic & bio-dynamic wines, deli items, eggs, scrummy cakes, homemade chocolates, Norfolk cheeses and freshly prepared dishes from the menu. Fully licensed with a monthly foodie night.
Swaffham is a thriving and bustling Norfolk market town located in the fascinating and historic Brecks; 370 square miles of forest, heath and farmland. Strattons sits in a quiet, concealed yet central private close in the town, an ideal base from which to explore the Brecks, Norwich, King’s Lynn and the coast –if, that is, you can tear yourself away from the hotel with its luxurious tranquility and delicious food.
‘Go Ape’ in the forest at High Lodge. Walk part of Peddars Way and reward yourself with a pint at the pub. Shop for antiques and take a tour of the art galleries. Snuggle up by the hotel fire with a bottle of red and your favourite magazine. Take a picnic from CoCoes café deli and explore Thetford forest. Climb 300 steps of Swaffham wind turbine and view miles of fabulous landscape.
Hunt for treasures at the weekly Saturday Market. Walk, run or cycle from the hotel through the beautiful Brecks countryside. Enjoy ‘good morning’ coffee at CoCoes café deli. Celebrate with friends and family, weddings; births; graduations; fond farewells; civilized hen and stag parties; any excuse parties! Be pampered next door at Cape Amethyst beauty salon.
Propose in style in your favourite bedroom. Check out the annual Brecks Food & Drink Festival in September. Explore historic Oxburgh Hall or spot the Queen at Sandringham. Indulge in fabulous food and drink the restaurant, outside in the summer or by the fire in winter. 4 Ash Close, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7NH 01760 723845
THE BrECKS
Impressive priory remains at Castle Acre and Thetford show the wealth and power of the church with Thetford once the centre of the church in the region. The writings of Thomas Paine, a radical freethinking writer of the 18th century, born in Thetford, greatly influenced the independence movements of both America and France. Find out more, and about Duleep Singh the last maharaja of the Punjab, at the Ancient House museum. Visit the Charles Burrell Museum to find out about this ‘father’ of the steam age, both in Thetford. Local Brecks Food and Drink is celebrated by a Festival held on the third weekend in September every year as part of the Norfolk Food Festival throughout September.
72 the of Norfolk
There are many great places to eat and drink, including three vineyards and it is the only place you can buy English Whisky at St George’s Distillery. The Brecks is an increasingly rare landscape, captured by WG Clarke in 1925 when he said: “The wild, unenclosed heathland encourages breadth of thought. The man who constantly dwells in a district where all land is enclosed and fields are small, thinks in acres; he who lives near the open heath, thinks in miles.” We should all take the chance to ‘think in miles’. Find out more at www.brecks.org
Enjoy a unique shopping experience...
Come and see what the Elveden Courtyard has to offer Walk through the woodlands, followed by lunch in the restaurant or browse the fine food, home and garden shops before enjoying a cappuccino or a traditional lemonade in the courtyard. Regular events every month; check our website for details. Elveden Courtyard, Elveden, Norfolk IP24 3TJ | Open 7 days a week | T: 01842 898068 | www.elveden.com
Sit back and relax...
A warm and welcoming Inn in the heart of East Anglia Whether you wish to enjoy a relaxing drink with the family, a memorable dining experience or a comfortable bed, the Elveden Inn with its open fires and friendly atmosphere is the perfect location. Elveden Inn, Elveden, Norfolk IP24 3TP | Serving food 7.30am - 9pm | T: 01842 890876 | www.elvedeninn.com
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Fakenham A bustling market town that comes alive on race days. hisTory
geT your bearings
Fakenham’s status as a market town is deep-rooted, with this trading being first recorded as early as 1250. The modern-day Thursday market still takes place very close to its original medieval location, surrounding the parish Church of St Peter and St Paul. Its major industry in the 19th and 20th centuries was printing and there are still more than 10 small printing firms in industrial premises around and near the town. A large number of printing blocks have been set into the surface of the market place as a memorial to this lost industry.
Fakenham is a major agricultural centre on the river Wensum and is a huge draw for collectors, browsers, visitors and locals. The town, handily situated near the coast and Norwich, has an attractive cinema in its Georgian centre, in the former Corn Exchange.
markeT days Varied shops line the attractive town that on Thursdays is transformed into a riot of activity. There is everything you would expect from a market but some things you probably wouldn’t! For example you will find an extensive range of exotic spices, the widest selection of fruit and vegetables that would put most supermarkets to shame not to mention the cheeses and meats. There is also a popular farmers’ market held on the fourth Saturday of every month.
don’T miss Don’t leave without visiting Pensthorpe Nature reserve, situated just out of town. The 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 and courses – they also run a range of seasonal events throughout the year, so do check their website.
There is even a 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. For a drink The Sculthorpe Mill, Sculthorpe is worth a visit. This beautifully converted 18th-century watermill sits astride the cascading river in a stunning countryside location, with a landscaped garden. It is an ideal setting to while away an hour on a summer afternoon. Families, be advised that the river is very accessible to curious children!
shows, fesTivals and evenTs MAY fakenham racecourse point to point JuNE ladies day NOVEMBEr - DECEMBEr Thursford christmas spectacular
Things To do and see 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.
hoTspoT The Sculthorpe Mill, Nr21 9QG
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Dereham The bustling heart of Norfolk from which the hidden treasures of Breckland can be explored. hisTory 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 14th-century 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, including fine Georgian structures as well as the 16th-century bell-tower used as a prison in Napoleonic times. markeT days On Tuesdays and Fridays, Dereham hosts a lively market. There is also a farmers’ market on the second Saturday of the month.
Reeve’s Larder Sample our delicious home cooked food relaxing in our restaurant, where we serve hot and cold lunches and afternoon teas (Locally sourced produce)
Beautiful landscaped Millennium Gardens Complete with pond to sit and relax by and a children’s play area.
geT your bearings Bustling Dereham is at the heart of Norfolk – a perfect spot from which to explore the county, especially the hidden treasures of Breckland. 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. don’T miss Dereham has a variety of shops including a legendary sausage-making butcher, restaurants, pubs and bars. And don’t miss the Norfolk shortbread in the café – it will set you up for more sight seeing! The modern library and large leisure centre are useful options for families. Things To do and see The brilliant Gressenhall Farm and Museum 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.
Bluebell shopping Centre Visit our Bluebell square indoor shopping centre where we have stained glass, fashion, giftware, florist, hair saloon, dolls house miniatures, art studio and footwear.
The Reeve’s Larder
Reeve’s Parlour Restaurant Sample our delicious food relaxing in our beautiful conservatory, where we serve hot and cold lunches and afternoon teas (locally sourced produce).
Reeve’s
Millennium Garden
Restaurant
Children’s Play Area
FREE WIFI
shows, fesTivals and evenTs JuNE welborne arts festival hoTspoT The Bull, Nr19 1DZ
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Tel. 01362 688 387 www.bawdeswellgardencentre.co.uk
The Bawdeswell Garden Centre, Norwich Road, Bawdeswell, Dereham Norfolk NR20 4RZ
THE At carrick’s Guest house, castle farm our visitors experience luxurious 5-star accommodation in our family home on a busy working farm. All rooms have been decorated and furnished to reflect the elegance of a bygone age whilst providing all modern facilities visitors expect. The 550 acre farm includes 300 acres of low-lying water meadows which are grazed in the summer months by our rare breed herds of White Park and Lincoln red cattle. For the more energetic, the farm boasts five miles of permissive footpaths one of which forms part of the Wensum Way which connects the Nar Valley Way to Marriot’s Way, enabling walkers to walk from King’s Lynn to Yarmouth mostly on permissive and County footpaths. The walk along the banks of the river Wensum, which forms the farm’s northern boundary is spectacular at any time of the year when a wide variety of deer, waterfowl and songbirds may be seen. The wide, impounded stretches of the river are also ideal for canoeists, anglers and artists.
ESTATE Over the years we have undertaken a number of diversification projects, converting traditional farm buildings which are no longer suitable for modern agriculture to alternative uses. This includes the provision of a village store, post office, butchers shop and delicatessen. Another project saw the birth of hunter’s hall, a wedding and banqueting venue created by refurbishing and converting a derelict Victorian barn and associated buildings. Darby’s freehouse and restaurant, converted from two unmodernised farm cottages, Darby’s has been a popular family pub for over 25 years. Specialising in real ales and locally sourced produce has ensured continued support from our loyal customers. park farm campsite. Hidden away in lush meadows surrounding Park Farm, our campsite offers a safe and peaceful base from which to explore our wonderful county of Norfolk. So whether you are just looking for a quiet place to ‘chill out’ or you seek more strenuous activity, you will find it all here at Castle Farm.
carrick’s at castle farm Castle Farm, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, Nr20 4JT. Tel: 01362 368302 www.carricksatcastlefarm.co.uk hunters hall, park farm Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, Nr20 4Ju. Tel: 01362 637457 www.huntershall.com Darby’s freehouse & restaurant Elsing road, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, Nr20 4Ju. Tel: 01362 637647
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.
THE FINEST SHOPPING IN NORWICH SINCE 1823 JARROLD STANDS PROUDLY IN THE CENTRE OF THE CITY Jarrolds womenswear and menswear collections have hundreds of brands on offer - many of them exclusive to us here in Norwich. We are confident we can help you find stylish solution for each and every occasion.
IN STORE • ONLINE • MOBILE LONDON STREET, NORWICH 01603 660661 JARROLD.CO.UK
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 multi-award winning Jarrold Bridge near to the Adam & Eve pub, was opened in December 2011.
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. Norwich was awarded the accolade of uNESCO City of Literature in 2012 – the first English city to receive this prestigious designation and activities relating to literature, translation and writing are developing further each year. There is always something to see or do whether professional or amateur – the problem is finding the time to do everything!
Culturally there is also much to enjoy, including many different types of performances, festivals and exhibitions throughout the year. A highlight of international significance is the Norfolk & Norwich Festival, which takes place
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. Norwich Beer Festival has been a mecca for beer drinkers for over 35 years and takes place at the end of October. 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.
Caroline Jarrold Chairman of VisitNorwich visitnorwich.co.uk
Photo used by kind permission of Pete Huggins
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four shops and 40 years of experience
Jonathan Trumbull hatters jonathantrumbull.co.uk
ginger
hattersnorwich.co.uk
chadds
gingerfashion.co.uk
chaddsnorwich.co.uk
In the heart of Norwich lies a thriving dynasty, which has kept Norfolk leading the fashion stakes for decades. Their ethos is simple: to provide great quality clothes to suit all occasions in a friendly yet classy environment. Indeed their most precious customer is the longstanding one who appreciates high quality garments and shoes that will lovingly remain a main staple of their wardrobe for many years.
GiNGer 35 Timber Hill Norwich, Nr1 3LA. Tel: 01603 763158 www.gingerfashion.co.uk
Sartorial
ELEGANCE iN Norfolk The Kingsley family’s fashion empire consists of the more traditional outfitters chadds, established in the sixties and run by patriarch John Kingsley. Chadds leans towards the country gent approach with lines from Daks, Magee and Gant amongst others. Whereas John’s son David runs the designer fashion shops hatters and Jonathan trumbull, both established in the seventies, with up to the minute collections from the likes of Paul Smith to Ralph Lauren. And David’s wife Vivienne and daughter Beckie run the deliciously upmarket womens wear shop, Ginger, established since 1976. Ginger’s designers include Armani, D’Exterior, Diane Von Furstenberg and Juicy Couture to name but a few. All four shops may sell very different lines and each have their own distinctive personalities but all share a common bond; they are all beautifully renovated outlets, manned by an enthusiastic and devoted team of staff delivering a sumptuous choice of great quality clothing and shoes to suit all budgets. They have adopted a creative approach to retail and their attention to detail in each store promises a unique shopping experience. Brothers David and roger Kingsley, who set up Hatters and Jonathan Trumbull (the official outfitters for Norwich City FC) can be credited with changing the way Norfolk men think about clothes. They opened their first shop back in the seventies and worked very hard to
build up the business with its focus on great customer service and up-to-the minute lines. roger has recently retired but David says he still gets a thrill from seeing his shop windows showcase a new season.
JoNathaN truMBull 5 St Stephens Street Norwich, Nr1 3QL. Tel: 01603 629876 www.jonathantrumbull.co.uk
“The buzz of seeing what's happening in London and Europe and buying in the new lines is always there,” he says. "England street fashion is the cutting edge of fashion in Europe. It is still here." David is keen to point out that they may be long established but the key to their success is they are constantly evolving. “Some of the staff have been with us now for four decades but we’re at the forefront of the Internet and customer service is a very important part of the business,” he says.
hatterS 11-13 White Lion Street Norwich, Nr2 1QA. Tel: 01603 626469 www.hattersnorwich.co.uk
David says his own personal favourite designers Paul Smith and Georgio Armani are a main staple of their menswear collections and there is always a healthy demand for Hugo Boss, Diesel and Holland Esq along with the newer edgier lines from Scotch & Soda, Descente and Esemplare. “We want to be all things to all people,” says David. “We want to inspire. We’ve got something different in each of our shops but at the same time we want people to know that we sell high quality clothing which will last many years.”
chaDDS 23 Bedford Street, Norwich, Nr2 1Ar. Tel: 01603 622668 www.chaddsnorwich.co.uk
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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 churchbuilding 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 Norwich. They also introduced canary-breeding 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 uK 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 centuries-old death-masks from public executions. Take a relaxing tour in a punt or 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 The Bridewell Museum, a fascinating museum of local history, 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.
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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 May /early 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 Forum sit cheek by jowl with medieval church towers, while the regenerated market is as flourishing and bustling as ever. 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 and Norwich university of the Arts, 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, with intu Chapelfield and Castle Mall shopping centres offering big named stores and a good variety of new cafés and restaurants. Great pleasure can be derived from walking around Norwich Market and the shopping areas of Gentlemen’s Walk,
Timber Hill, the sensational Art Nouveau royal Arcade and the historic Norwich Lanes; a vibrant area of the city with a whole array of independent shops. The walk along London Street leads you from Norwich Lanes to Queen Street and on into Tombland in Norwich’s Cathedral Quarter where there are a number of great cafés and restaurants. This beautiful part of the city is full of historic buildings, diverse cultural activity and a continental atmosphere and has been widely used as a film and TV location. Make sure you make time to visit cobbled Elm Hill, one of the prettiest streets in the city, its steep road leading the eye from one enticing shop to the next. Then head back into Tombland and across to the tranquility and beauty of Cathedral Close where many of its buildings are part of King Edward V1 School, whose choristers sing in the cathedral. As you explore you will stumble upon one historic structure after another: the famously beautiful Pulls Ferry on the riverside, Cow Tower on another bend of the river, a defensive tower dating from the 13th century, or Bishops Bridge, the oldest in Norwich. The river informs the whole history of the city and there are some beautiful 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 T: 01603 213999 E: tic@visitnorwich.co.uk or visit www.visitnorwich.co.uk the of Norfolk 85
Quintessential JEWELLERS
winsor bishop 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.
Patek Philippe Self-winding Officer’s Case Calatrava Ref. 5153G in 18k white gold, with black alligator strap and hinged dust cover. £25,030
Patek Philippe Ladies Ultra-thin self-winding Calatrava Ref. 7200R in 18k rose gold with beige alligator strap. £19,690
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 company’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.
Simply Calatrava To enter the world of Patek Philippe is to discover a universe where the exceptional is the rule. You are choosing a watch whose technical perfection and timeless aesthetic appeal ignore the years. The Calatrava, Patek Philippe’s signature model was originally created by Patek Philippe in 1932 as the result
Patek Philippe Self-winding Calatrava Ref. 5227G in 18k white gold, with black alligator strap, featuring dust cover with invisible hinge. £25,110
of an avant-garde philosophy of aesthetics that showcases sleek lines and subtle elegance. The line is directly inspired by the Bauhaus artistic movement, the German school of architecture and applied arts based on the precept that ‘Form follows function’ and ‘less is more’. The endearing quality of the design reflects the relentless pursuit of perfection that has always been at the core of Patek Philippe's mission. Current owners the Stern family, whose tradition is intimately intertwined with the Calatrava collection, acquired the manufacture in 1932, and the first Calatrava model, the ref. 96, was launched in the same year. Since then, Patek Philippe have repeatedly demonstrated that even a paragon of design like the Calatrava can be changed, optimized, and perfected, as illustrated perfectly by the new reference 5227. As with all models in the Calatrava range, ref. 5227 is presented with a round case and a classic, timeless design. What makes this piece standout however is almost impossible to see, even to the most discerning connoisseur! A seamlessly integrated dust cover, with an invisible hinge, ensures the timepiece has an elegant,
Patek Philippe Ladies manual Calatrava Ref. 7119/1J in 18k yellow gold and classic hobnail pattern bezel. £26,170
ultra-slim silhouette. When the dust cover is opened, the self-winding movement is revealed through the sapphire crystal case-back. This model is available in rose, white and yellow gold. For ladies the new ref. 7200 Calatrava ladies' wristwatch is a masterpiece of minimal art. Presented in delicate rose gold, this is a ladies' wristwatch fully focused on hours and minutes. Designed for women who methodically devote their attention to the essence of things, it epitomizes timelessness in classic, feminine perfection. The dial features a fine-grained texture with a silky effect, a perfect background for the two Poire Stuart hands in rose gold. The case back has a sapphirecrystal glass that reveals the ultra-thin, self-winding mechanical movement. These inimitably elegant ladies' and men's watches are impervious to short-lived trends, recapturing the hearts of each new generation. Whether extra thin, with hobnail patterns or wide polished bezels, they are all unmistakable members of the Calatrava family and even their changing faces cannot belie their origins. No other watch lends better expression to the true Patek Philippe style.
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café SOCIETY The city of Norwich has quietly undergone a coffee revolution. Gone are the days when it was difficult to find a half-decent cappuccino – now Norwich is awash with independent coffee houses and tea rooms of every description and in every direction. Out with the factory-line style of large chains, the new approach is artisanal, thorough and meticulous. A case in point, the little red roaster proprietor Darren Groom was inspired by topquality blends whilst living in Sydney and now analyses water quality in his spare time. Little red roaster’s efficient but friendly stall is at the heart of Norwich Market, where you can grab a spritely Little red and wander through Britain’s largest open market. A quick jaunt to Nelson Street brings you to the newest addition to Norwich’s coffee club, the reading rooms. Owners Paul and Francesca GloverDarke spent years sampling coffee and waiting for the ideal location to become available in Norwich. Their patience paid off – the stylishly comfortable décor and sociable environment make the reading rooms a natural place to lose yourself amongst the ample supply of books.
88 the of Norfolk
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. If you fancy sliding another notch along the kooky scales, check out the kitsch Biddy’s tea room on upper Goat Lane. The two floors of retro madness are nicely brought together by curiously flavoured cakes (lavender or Turkish delight), and a soothing cup of tea. A stone’s throw away, the artsy ambiance of St. Benedicts Street lends itself well to two of Norwich’s mostloved independents: house café with 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.
Finally, don’t miss the magic that is the Window. Neither pretentious nor conventional, owner Hayley Draper has got the balance just right. 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 have won rave reviews. “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.
Norwich High School for Girls GDST (3-18 years)
“A go-getting gem in East Anglia.” Country Life Good Schools Guide
For Open Day events and further information: www.norwichhigh.gdst.net 01603 453265 To request a prospectus, email admissions@nor.gdst.net A member of the Girls Day School Trust Registered charity No. 306983
The best start for your daughter
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The heart of shopping in Norwich
FASHION
FOOD HOME Over 80 stores on 5 floors 8 screen cinema Parking for 800 cars
Next to Norwich Castle castlemallnorwich.co.uk norwichcastlemall
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 Jane Norman, 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. 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 and pay £1.50 all evening, allowing you to enjoy Norwich’s wonderful selection of restaurants and night life. The main entrance on White Lion Street is a few minutes walk from the bus station and the 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.
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Established for over
35
www.mulberrykitchens.com
years
Beautifully Designed Reassuringly Exclusive Surprisingly Affordable At Mulberry Kitchen Studios we have the understanding and experience required to transform a vision into stunning reality. Your kitchen is so much more than a room to cook in, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a stylish and practical place at the heart of your home. Together we can create an amazing space that reflects your personality and your lifestyle.
Visit our website for a taste of how we can transform your home, or contact us to arrange a consultation.
212 Mile Cross Lane, Norwich, NR6 6SE T: 01603 404644
|
31 Newgate, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 9QB T: 01502 711210
A moment’s calm on the
I begin with a confession: despite visiting Norwich for years, I can’t recall ever having found the river Wensum. My trips to the city are characterised by excitement and restlessness as I rush between shops and galleries and cafés, eager to take it all in at once. And I’m hardly alone- any visitor will agree that it’s all too easily done. But you would be mistaken to think that this is all that Norwich has to offer. Little did I know, an oasis of tranquillity is hidden in plain sight at the very centre of the city itself. The secret lies in the river, and I don’t mean a quick glance across the bridge near the rail station. The river Wensum offers much more than meets the eye, being as it is a Special Area of Conservation and forming part of the Norfolk Broads National Park. Having been used for many years for shipping purposes, today the riverside remains beautifully unspoilt and unaffected.
Surrounded by swans, anglers and weeping willows, the city seems miles away. Far from the chaos of London’s Southbank, there is a real simplicity to this stretch of water. The broad arc of the river has a historic feel nicely tempered by a smattering of pubs. Pulls Ferry, a beautiful fifteenth century watergate, stands out as a picturesque postcard scene perfect for a summer picnic. The river Wensum offers all this without being twee, as the banks have an unmistakably grounded feel. Despite medieval monuments such as Cow Tower, it is clear that the river wasn’t designed for tourists- it’s where skippers have for centuries tied their boats to a couple of trees and enjoyed a hard-earned pint. The Adam & Eve Pub is the oldest in Norwich, first finding popularity with medieval workmen, and remains a great way to end a walk along the river.
Once you’ve explored the banks by foot, the Norwich Punting Co. offers the opportunity to take in all the sights from the comfort of a hand-painted Punt. The charming tours are regular and reasonably priced, giving you a really unique perspective of the city. Its special romantic or Haunted tours provide a rare glimpse of the riverside at night as many sections of the bank are closed after sunset. So whenever you find yourself needing a moment’s peace from the hustle and bustle of city life, just drop down to the banks of Wensum. It will be sure to have you looking a little more, and rushing a little less.
Norfolk punting company from friars Quay norwichpunting.co.uk
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With our wonderful Grade II listed building providing the perfect backdrop, The Granary offers an exciting collection of beautiful contemporary furniture, home accessories and gifts. Italian design meets Scandinavian style to bring a unique and inspiring shopping experience to Norwich.
T H E G R A N A RY
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a Jarrold store
ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2014;ď&#x20AC;&#x2018;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x203A;ď&#x20AC;&#x2014;ď&#x20AC;&#x161;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2013;ď&#x20AC;&#x2022;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2039;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;
Norwich SPRING AND AUTUMN INTERNATIONAL LITERARY FESTIVAL SpriNg AND AuTuMN
ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x2013;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2014
NORWICH FASHION WEEK one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest growing cultural events. it is held annually in March.
THE EAST ANGLIAN GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR 26Th & 27Th April
FRITTON LAKE LONG AQUATHLON 6Th July
BROADS OUTDOOR FESTIVAL MAy
This new gala will consist of four races for all ages combining 5km run and 2km swim. www.activeoutdoorsport.co.uk
NORFOLK AND NORWICH FESTIVAL 9Th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 24Th MAy NORFOLK OPEN STUDIOS 24Th MAy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8Th JuNE CITY OF ALE FESTIVAL 22ND MAy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SuNDAy 1ST JuNE NORWICH FILM FESTIVAL MAy
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS SEpTEMbEr
NORWICH FLEAMARKET The cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite fair. The award-winning Norwich Fleamarket has been held at St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s halls since 1975 Dealers from all over East Anglia and beyond offer 100 stalls of Antiques, collectables, Vintage and retro. FEbruAry 15 MArch 8 April 12 MAy 10
celebrating Norwichâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.
St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and blackfriarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; halls St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Street Norwich, Nr3 1Au.
NORFOLK FOOD FESTIVAL SEpTEMbEr â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ocTobEr
www.norwichfleamarket.com
10am to 5pm Entry ÂŁ2 u18 free. 01603 630763
NORWICH TRIATHLON 12Th July whitlingham country park
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. But St JohnÂ&#x2019;s is much more than a testament to manÂ&#x2019;s skills and craftsmanship, its also a place of prayer open every day from 7.30am to 7.30pm to all who come in search of peace and tranquillity. The cathedral is open to everyone and is free to enter. The Cathedral also incorporates the Narthex, a new visitor centre with a wealth of amenities. This includes a refectory selling a wide range of food and drink, open from Tues Â&#x2013; Sat between 10.30am and 4pm. For more information, contact 01603 724381. The Cathedral Shop stocks a wide range of religious items, books, cards, fair-trade products and locally crafted goods. Open Tues Â&#x2013;Sat from 10am to 4pm, and after Mass on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. For more information, call 01601 728937.
Breathtaking views of Norwich Built in 1884 and completed in 1910, St JohnÂ&#x2019;s stands at one of the highest points in the city. Short of a hot-air balloon ride, the 360 degree views from the top of the tower are the best that Tours are available for all who can climb the 230 steps (children must be accompanied by adults), and the effort is well rewarded by the stunning views across the county. 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
Unthank Road Norwich NR2 2PA www.sjbcathedral.org.uk
the ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C;ď&#x20AC;&#x201D; of NORFOLK 95
in our ever-changing world, technology offers couples new ways to plan their wedding from augmented-realityenhanced invitations to 3D printed hats and rings. you can even purchase a wearable technology wedding dress that incorporates micro electronics. Amidst all this digital madness, it is reassuring that you can rely on a timeless Norfolk wedding. comfortingly grounded in tradition, the county provides a range of romantic venues, from country-cool barns to chic and classic hotels.
NorFolk
photography by kind permission of www.katherineashdown.co.uk
96 the of NORFOLK
Georgian elegance and AA Rosette-awarded cuisine at Norfolk Mead
An elegant Georgian heritage, immaculate lawns and exquisite dining make a stay at The Norfolk Mead Hotel the perfect country retreat. Husband and wife team Anna and James come from high profile catering background, which explains the emphasis on exceptional produce and truly delicious dining.
Weddings at Norfolk Mead Norfolk Mead is the perfect venue for your wedding, whether it’s an intimate ceremony in our main dining room for up to 40 guests, or in our brand new function room that can seat 120 guests plus a further 120 in the evening and available to book from April 2014. Anna Duttson Events can cater for any style event from a three-course wedding breakfast to a canapé party with champagne.
Stroll around the flawlessly manicured grounds, which encircle the hotel and extend to the banks of the River Bure and be sure to head down to the private lake, which homes swans, geese and other wildfowl. While away an afternoon using the hotel’s day boat and head out on the Norfolk Broads. Not only will you be able to see an array of British wildlife, but should the mood take you, you’ll be able to dock and pop to a riverside pub for refreshment.
THE NORFOLK MEAD HOTEL CHURCH LOKE, NORWICH NORFOLK NR12 7DN
01603 737531 INFO@NORFOLKMEAD.CO.UK WWW.NORFOLKMEAD.CO.UK
From the moment the engagement ring is placed on your finger, the excitement of planning the perfect wedding day begins. The daunting prospect of choosing the right venue and considering the myriad of associated details means it is so easy to become overwhelmed by how much needs to be done. getting married in Norfolk has many advantages. it makes little difference whether you are aiming for a swanky ceremony or prefer to keep your special day a slightly low-key occasion. classic or traditional – the Norfolk countryside and its stunning heritage coastal areas have everything you
need to create a wedding with personality.
room, followed (or preceded) by a ceremony outside in the grounds.
There is something to suit everyone – from locations right beside the sea to idyllic settings deep in the heart of the countryside. choose from the wealth of traditional halls steeped in history, or opt for a new contemporary venue. Norfolk has it all.
Making your ceremony a ‘duo’ needs to be discussed with the venue and local registrar, as there are obvious logistical issues.
in some approved venues, registrars are now able to offer ‘duo’ ceremonies where the legal elements of the marriage are carried out in the licensed
Set in its own delightful grounds, Stower Grange is a three star country house hotel just four miles from the centre of norwich and just over a mile from norwich International airport. with 11 well-appointed bedrooms, aa rosette restaurant and a bar, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring norfolk.
you should also bear in mind that marriages at hotels and stately homes are becoming increasingly popular so, if you have set your heart on a Norfolk wedding, bookings should be made as soon as possible.
Stower Grange Hotel is also an excellent choice of wedding venue, being licensed to hold civil wedding ceremonies and offers the benefit of being able to cater for all your food and drink requirements, as well as providing a truly romantic setting for your wedding day.
Stower GranGe Hotel, ScHool road, drayton, nr8 6eF 01603 860210 | enquiries@stowergrange.co.uk | www.stowergrange.co.uk
98 the of NORFOLK
BoN 2014 Part 3 B_Layout 1 03/01/2014 10:45 Page 99
Experience a stylish, new look Congham Hall and a chance to dip into our day spa packages at the Secret Garden Spa...
Why not treat yourself to one of our relaxing day spa packages from just ÂŁ45. All packages include a relaxing treatment, use of the swimming pool and thermal suite, some packages also include a two course lunch or afternoon tea.
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www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk
congham_hall
Congham Hall Spa Hotel
Congham Hall, Grimston, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn, Norfolk PE32 1AH T 01485 600250 E info@conghamhallhotel.co.uk
ufford park hotel, golf and Spa whatever your event, ufford park woodbridge hotel, golf and Spa is the ideal location for you. Situated in 120 acres of Suffolk’s beautiful countryside and located just off the A12, ufford park offers a fantastic choice of facilities for all to enjoy.
The 90 bedroom hotel with golf course and luxury spa has everything you would expect and with places such as Aldeburgh, Framlingham and Southwold all in close proximity, is the reason why it is the ‘gateway to Suffolk’s heritage coast’. come for the day with friends, your partner or make a weekend of it! with one night golf and spa breaks starting from only £89pp, why wouldn’t you! The 18 hole, par 71 golf course offers any golfer a great challenge with spectacular views over the Deben Valley. Due to the naturally free draining characteristics of the soil, there is a very good chance that the course is open and playable all year round when many others have to close.
The purpose built thermal suite offers a series of heating and cooling experiences based on ancient ritual of bathing. The suite includes a hydropool, aroma steam room, soft sauna, mineral grotto, feature showers, foot spas and relaxation area with complimentary cool filtered water and a selection of herbal teas. ufford park woodbridge is the perfect solution for a special birthday, a romantic anniversary, hen and stag celebrations or even a corporate meeting. The hotel, golf and spa are all open seven days a week to members and non-members. call 0844 847 9409 for more information or to book. www.uffordpark.co.uk
UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE Hidden Treasure... ...For all to enjoy OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK NON MEMBERS WELCOME
Hotel Weddings Conferences Tribute nights and events Food served all day Golf & Spa breaks from only £89pp
100 the of NORFOLK
0844 847 9409 www.uffordpark.co.uk
NORFOLK BROADS There may be no more peaceful place than the Norfolk broads, a landscape unchanged for generations. For solitude it’s hard to beat Strumpshaw Fen, where wildlife thrives alongside an idiosyncratic herd of highland cows. 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, or meeting animals at wroxham barns or the whimsical bewilderwood.
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NorFolk broADS The Broads have a wonderful mixture of open water, woodland, fen and marsh and are a National Park, managed by the Broads Authority who have been responsible for their conservation 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 ďŹ&#x201A;ooded 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 is truly remarkable to see and shops, restaurants, pubs and the all-important leisure boat industry all thriving as a result of what was, in eďŹ&#x20AC;ect, an accident of nature.
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Wroxham Barns A wide range of crafts are showcased in the converted barns where visitors can watch the resident craftsmen and women bring traditional and contemporary skills to life. From apple pressing and woodturning, to painting, pottery and jewellery, there is something to cater for all interests and you are welcome to visit their studios.
Walking 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.
Cycling 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.
Fishing with over 300 square kilometres of rivers and shallow lakes to enjoy, the broads offer a wide range of fishing for all levels of anglers. Take your pick of free spots and angling platforms or even fish from a boat on open waters. There are also private broads that offer fishing by prior arrangement or Day Ticket bank fishing spots. Some of the best urban free fishing for roach and perch can be had along the banks of the river wensum, while the rural hot spots offer countless opportunities for everything from bream to Eel. in advance of your trip, be sure to check seasonal and licensing information at www.norfolkbroads.com
Many of them take commissions and also offer mail order and home delivery services for bigger items or personalised gifts should you wish to purchase their work. TRICIA FRANCIS POTTERY MADE BY YOU ART STUDIO COASTAL STAINED GLASS NORFOLK SKETCHES SUE WINDLEY SCULPTOR WOODTURNING AND ENGRAVING SEW CREATIVE THE NORFOLK GALLERY wroxham barns also support ‘produced in Norfolk’, a social enterprise founded in 2005 to promote and support local producers that are genuinely making their products in Norfolk. wroxham barns represents the largest group of produced in Norfolk members and associate members.
Canoeing 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.
Wroxham Barns Tunstead Road, Hoveton Norfolk, NR12 8QU. info@wroxhambarns.co.uk Open all year round, 10am-5pm 01603 783762
the of NORFOLK 103
wroxham As the gateway to the broads, wroxham is packed with plenty for land-lovers and sailing enthusiasts to enjoy.
HISTORY The Norfolk broads have been a popular boating holiday destination and centre for yacht racing since the late 19th century, but they were not always such leisurely locations. For many years the broads were thought to be natural features of the landscape, but it was not until the 1960s that they were revealed to be the product of man’s labour. The broads were actually formed by the flooding of medieval peat excavations, creating the current landscape filled with reed beds and wet woodland.
bure but both are excellent starting points from which to explore this magical area as there are countless boat trips and boat-hire companies from which to choose as well as plenty of land-based activities in the vicinity.
DON’T MISS
The nearest farmers’ market to wroxham takes place in hoveton Village hall on Saturdays between 9am and 1pm.
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. 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 cuddle 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!
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
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
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
MARKET DAYS
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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. There is also the chance to learn about the local history at the Museum of the broads in nearby Stalham, in buildings formerly associated with the wherry trade. if the weather is inclement a trip on the bure Valley railway is always popular. it runs between wroxham and Aylsham in the school holidays as well as the main summer season.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS AuguST Gyspy in the Field Festival Wroxham Regatta
HOTSPOT wroxham barns, Nr12 8Qu
ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2014;ď&#x20AC;&#x2018;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x17D;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C;ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x203A;ď&#x20AC;&#x2014;ď&#x20AC;&#x161;ď&#x20AC;&#x2122;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x2026;ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x152;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x201D;ď&#x20AC;&#x2013;ď&#x20AC;&#x2022;ď&#x20AC;&#x20AC;ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x201A;ď&#x20AC;&#x2021;
Probably the best day out for children AND grown-ups on the Broads
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Wroxham Barns Est 1983
Open all year round 10am - 5pm
Sue Windley, Sculptor Sew Creative Tricia Francis, Potter The Norfolk Art Gallery Chris Hutchins Norfolk Sketches The Wood Shop Coastal Stained Glass The Norfolk Cider Shop Bill LeGrice Roses & Plant Centre Sugar & Spice ChildrenÂ&#x2019;s Clothes
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from the best local produce to designer cookware & quality fashion brands & so much more
ROYS OF WROXHAM
No visit to Wroxham, the heart of the Norfolk Broads would be complete without shopping at ROYS of Wroxham What s in Wroxham? Department Store Supermarket DIY Centre Garden centre RoyZone Fashion Save n wear Children s World Roys Toys
www.roys.co.uk 01603 782131 general.enquiries@roys.co.uk
106 the of NORFOLK
Open seven days a week 1,000 free parking spaces
BoN 2014 Part 3 B_Layout 1 03/01/2014 10:46 Page 107
The Norfolk broads, britain’s magical waterland is an international wetland that is protected and managed by the broads Authority.
FACT FILE broads Tours, The bridge, wroxham telephone 01603 782207, or visit www.broadstours.co.uk www.broads.co.uk www.norfolkbroadsdirect.co.uk Daily river trip time table operates between 1st April – 1st November. Evening cruises available wednesday and Thursday evenings during July and August. Santa cruises available during December. Day boats are available 1st March – 1st November, during the winter months they are available weekdays only subject to appropriate weather conditions.
Quite the best way of discovering just what is so magical about the Norfolk broads is to get out on the water. but if you don’t fancy being at the helm yourself, don’t worry, you can join broads Tours for an organised passenger boat trip. Simply sit back, relax and let the experts do the work! broads Tours in wroxham, the village considered to be 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; the skipper will tell you all you need to know about the area’s history, the wildlife and more, he will even throw in the odd funny tale! All of the trip boats have a licensed bar and offer a range of light refreshments and have all the necessary facilities for your comfort. A limited number of wheelchair users are very welcome on all of the trips but booking is advisable to avoid disappointment. broads Tours also host Evening Music cruises during the summer, you can choose from a fun disco evening or the live Dixieland Jazz Trio. Enjoy a drink
from the well-stocked bar, tap your toes to the music as you watch the sun setting over the magical broads scenery. The winter is not forgotten at broads Tours either; during December Santa is a regular visitor to the broads. he lands his sleigh on top of the boat and joins the passengers with his sack of presents for all of the children on board. it is also great fun to actually hire a boat and take to the helm yourself. you can opt for just one hour, or pack a picnic and take off for the whole day. Don’t imagine that you need any previous experience either. The boats are very safe and easy to operate after being shown the ropes by a member of broads Tours staff. The fun starts as you work out your own route and explore the area at your own pace. however long you spend on the water it is a fantastic way to explore the intricate maze of rivers, tributaries and smooth reed-fringed waters and to get
up close to nature. Each turn reveals many wonders from the abundance of waterbirds, dragonflies, moths and other insects. herons are near common place but do look out for kingfishers, swallow tail butterflies, otters and marsh harriers. you can also explore pretty broadland villages with their charming churches and waterside pubs and restaurants. children love the sense of adventure a boat gives and it’s a great way of learning about nature whilst having lots of fun. with 125miles of navigable water there’s so much to see and do that you’ll want to go back again and again. if you love what you have seen and want to stay a bit longer broads Tours’ sister company Norfolk broads Direct has a fleet of high quality cabin cruisers and waterside holiday homes. These can be hired for a short break, week or even longer! please see the Norfolk broads Direct website where you can view the whole fleet and request the latest holiday brochure.
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horning An archetypal broadland village, right on the water, with a magnificent church and a foot ferry. HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
horning’s most impressive historical landmark is the ruined abbey of St benets, a grade i listed building dating back to the ninth century. it has been at the centre of religious struggles against the Danes, through to the Norman conquest, and of course the much later Dissolution of the Monasteries. Sir John Falstof, who inspired Shakespeare’s recurring character Falstaff, is buried in its grounds. The nearby church of St benedict dates to the 13th century, and provides a more intact insight to the area’s local history.
The actual village is tucked away off the main A1062 so there is a leisurely feel to the village that is based alongside the river bure. There are many neighbouring villages that are just as charming – 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 private broad! with boat trips, regular events such as guided walks, plays and craft workshops, it is a gem of a place.
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.
MARKET DAYS DON’T MISS The nearest farmers’ market to wroxham takes place in hoveton Village hall on Saturdays between 9am and 1pm.
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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 will 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.
There are plenty of attractive reedthatched cottages in the village itself, a foot ferry that takes people across the river to woodbastwick and the handsome Swan inn has an extensive menu. in the summer its decking is a popular spot to enjoy a pint Don’t forget to stroll out of the village to St benedict's church, a glorious example of a broadland church.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS MAy Horning Boat Show AuguST Horning Scarecrow Festival
HOTSPOT The Swan inn, Nr12 8AA
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Aylsham A historic market town close to country houses at blickling, Felbrigg, Mannington and wolterton HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Aylsham is a historic market town on the river bure. Archaeological evidence shows that the site of the town has been occupied since prehistoric times.
if you have time 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. The historic weavers' way and Marriott's way both pass directly through the town, so there are some great walking options, too.
on the outskirts of the town is the 15inch gauge bure Valley railway which was built in 1990 and is operated by steam locomotives.
The historic black boys inn in the Market place is one of Aylsham's oldest surviving buildings, and has been on the site since the 1650s, although the present frontage dates to between 1710 and 1720. The black boys was a stop for the post coach from Norwich to cromer and had stabling for 40 horses.
MARKET DAYS The weekly market, is held on Mondays, 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. 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 real food.
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DON’T MISS The Jacobean blickling hall, a stately home 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, estate walks around a large lake and that essential tea shop. Nowadays you can also hire bikes – 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).
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 an excellent award-winning pub, the walpole Arms at itteringham.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS AuguST Aylsham Show Last Night of the Blickling Proms SEpTEMbEr Bure Valley Railway Steam Gala ocTobEr Aylsham Food Festival
HOTSPOT The black boys hotel, Nr11 6Eh
Beechwood Hotel One of the leading small hotels in the UK celebrating twenty years
We look forward to welcoming you.
reepham A tranquil, tucked -away village with market town status. HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
reepham may feel like a village but it is very proud of its market town status that was granted in 1277. 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.
Marriott's way is a 26 mile longdistance path along former railway tracks that passes through reepham's former railway station so you can enjoy walking or cycling through many picturesque villages on the way towards Norwich or Aylsham. The walk is named after the chief engineer, william Marriott, who worked the Midland and great Northern line for 41 years. The station also houses a small museum, tearoom and has cycles to hire.
when you arrive in the beautiful market place, the old brewery house hotel is immediately impressive. you should take time to explore the town's little lanes – who could resist somewhere called pudding pie Alley? – with independent shops and cafes. V's cafe is a popular meeting spot while Diane's pantry has plenty of homecooked goodies.
MARKET DAYS The town, boasts plenty of georgian architecture and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, which really comes to life on wednesday market days.
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DON’T MISS St Mary’s church was mainly built in the 14th century and contains a canopied tomb on the north wall of the sanctuary 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 knight’s armour.
if you are interested in fishing there is the reepham Fishery. Just outside the historic town, it is regarded as one of Norfolk's premier coarse fisheries having been established for many years on spring-fed lakes.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS AuguST Reepham Summer Festival
HOTSPOT The crown pub, Nr10 4EJ
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 Bonhams The Market Place, Reepham, Norfolk, NR10 4JJ
John Tiktak (1916-1981) Inuit mother and child stone, height 16.5cm. Sourced in Norfolk and sold in San Francisco for $43,000, June 2013
International Auctioneers and Valuers - bonhams.com/norfolk Values stated include buyer’s premium. Details can be found at bonhams.com
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WEST NORFOLK 114 the of 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. 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. garden lovers and ramblers won’t want to miss Sandringham’s 60 acres of parkland and the Area of outstanding Natural beauty nearby. 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. the of NORFOLK 115
king's lynn A port with plenty, rich in history, myth and legend. HISTORY The town in a former age, until 1537, was 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 to the 1950s. There is also Tales of the old gaol house where stories abound of witches, murderers and highwaymen – 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.
the town, the ancient part around the quays makes an excellent starting point for exploring king’s lynn. 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.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
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.
GET YOUR BEARINGS
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Juxtaposed with its bustling docks and notable market-places in the centre of
in July, the king’s lynn Festival is one of the highlights of a town bursting
116 the of NORFOLK
And the villages of Dersingham and Snettisham are charming – Snettisham has another fine rSpb reserve that is at its best in the winter when high tides force thousands of waders up onto the shoreline.
DON’T MISS 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 first-rate gift shop and a range of vintage and historic cars are some of the attractions. Also, 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.
MARKET DAYS
with cultural events. Another highlight of the town is the bespoke parkour course at walks park. it is only the second in the uk and well worth a visit whatever your ability.
July King's Lynn Festival Festival Too, King's Lynn World Snail Racing Championships, Congham Sandringham Flower Festival AuguST Sandringham Craft and Food Festival Sandringham Game and Country Fair SEpTEMbEr King's Lynn Poetry Festival
HOTSPOT bank house, pE30 1rD
BARBOUR GANT GERRY WEBER HUGO BOSS JOULES POLO RALPH LAUREN TED BAKER Wellesley Street, King s Lynn PE30 1QD T 01553 772382 goddardsonline.co.uk
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Award-winning Landscape Photography Fine Art Prints Landscape Photography Workshops & Tuition
A perfect place for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner
Congham Hall is set in 30 acres of parkland on the edge of the Sandringham Estate. & $ %' "*$ $ $$ ' + '- - %' &%& $ %' %/ %' ) '$%%$ ) $ ) ! "%%! '%*$ %*' #&' (( + ' ' $ , ( %& $ )% ) &* " *' $ (&' $ (*## ' '%# # &# The two AA Rosette ' () *' $) ( '+ ( + ' )- % " ) ($ !( $ " %*( % % ( ( %#&" # $) - "% ""- (%*' &'% * $ ' ( $ + ) " ( '%# %*' %,$ ' $
To book your table, call 01485 600250 %$ # "" %$ # "" & %) " %$ # "" ' #()%$ $ .( -$$ %' %"! E $ % %$ # "" %) " % *! www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk
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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.
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 crystalclear offerings to living bottleconditioned 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.
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.
Finally, a truly international selection from 65 countries ranging from Argentina to Zimbabwe.
we also stock around 1,000 malt whiskies, unusual spirits and liqueurs, plus branded glasses and gift packs.
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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hunstanton The nickname of Sunny hunny sums up this family-friendly west Norfolk seaside town.
HISTORY The history of the area is an ancient one and a short trip along the coast takes the visitor to holme-next-theSea where the incredible 4,000-yearold Seahenge was discovered, and where the coast path meets the prehistoric peddars way. 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.
MARKET DAYS hunstanton has a Sunday market but the nearest farmers’ market is at creake Abbey on the first Saturday of each month.
GET YOUR BEARINGS 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. The town is also the starting point for
120 the of NORFOLK
the Norfolk coastal path that runs all the way to cromer, some 40-odd miles away. best foot forward, please!
DON’T MISS 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. 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.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE There is the Sea life Sanctuary, where children can see otters, seals and sharks among other species. or you can walk along the cliff tops to old hunstanton, with its iconic beach huts nestling in sand-dunes and challenging golf course, which 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.
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. Also not to be missed is the annual lawn tennis week in August that has been running since the 1920s.
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS JuNE Hunstanton Carnival Hunstanton Dance Festival July Hunstanton Lifestyles Extreme Sports & Culture Festival Norfolk Lavender Festival Old Hunstanton Flower Festival AuguST Heacham Carnival Hunstanton Kite Festival DEcEMbEr Christmas Day swim at Hunstanton
HOTSPOT The Ancient Mariner inn, pE36 6JJ wells Deli, pE36 6bJ
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Felbrigg Hall
Norfolk is an area replete with grand houses, stately homes and gardens, churches and other fine historical architecture. Many are celebrated for their magnificent interiors and award-winning gardens.
STATELY HOMES AND GARDENS oF NorFolk Felbrigg Hall
East Ruston Old Vicarage
Walpole Water Gardens
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.
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-rustonoldvicaragegardens.co.uk
Designed and landscaped by the Norfolk born artist peter cousins, walpole water gardens offers its visitors over 20 kinds of eucalyptus, as well as palms, bananas and grasses, black swans, ornamental ducks and koi carp. with an exotic feel all year round, you can take a guided tour of the gardens, or simply sit back and relax in these peaceful surroundings.The gardens also feature a tea room serving hot and cold drinks and snacks, an extensive range of exotic plants and an aquatic sales area, and a gallery exhibiting the work of peter cousins - limited and unlimited edition prints of wildlife, aviation, tropical, marine and fantasy landscapes. www.walpolewatergardens.gbr.cc
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Oxburgh Hall
Walpole Water Gardens
Oxburgh Hall 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.
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SANDriNghAM A stunning Edwardian, Royal retreat Although you are not likely to see the monarch herself gliding through its beautiful parkland, the house and its grounds remain one of Norfolk’s enduring treasures.
The estate was a 21st birthday present from Queen Victoria to her eldest son, Edward V11, known as bertie, in 1862, and as well as commissioning the architect A J humbert to build a bigger, neo-Elizabethan residence with lots of gables and chimneys, he had the road moved a mile away from the house. Apart from the house itself, there are lots of interesting events throughout the 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
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than anywhere else in the world.” The interior of the house contains a wealth of treasure, from 17th-century brussels tapestries and huge mirrors to mahogany tables and fine china – Dresden, copenhagen and royal worcester. originally there were 365 rooms in the house but following the demolition of one wing there are now a rather more modest number, a mere 274 of which some on the ground floor are open to visitors. while it is easy to imagine the family using the rooms and the things within them, perhaps it is the outdoors – much beloved by the Queen – at Sandringham which holds most interest. There are 60 acres of gardens, in which Queen Alexandra’s favourite dogs, Facie and punchie, lie buried.
There is the village church with its solid silver altar, and the whole estate includes seven villages, orchards, grain fields and forests. Also seen in the park are the magnificent Norwich gates, the wrought-iron wedding present from the city of Norwich to Edward V11, made by Thomas Jekyll. There is a collection of vintage cars on view and you will glimpse park house, the birthplace of princess Diana. A tractor and trailer tour of the country park can be taken and there are many fascinating and beautiful woodland walks as well as an excellent gift shop and café at the visitor centre. The shops and restaurants at the Visitor centre are open every day all through the year. however, Sandringham house, gardens and Museum all open on Sunday 1st April.
HOUGHTON HALL
houghton hall, the hidden jewel of north-west Norfolk, is one of the finest palladian houses in this country. built by Sir robert walpole in the 1720s, the superbly designed building with its lavish furnishings of the staterooms, designed by william kent, reflect walpole’s status as britain’s first prime Minister. Visitors can step back in time and enjoy houghton much as it would have been in walpole’s day. The hall is surrounded by parkland, home to a herd of white fallow and exotic deer. in May the park is the setting for the houghton international horse Trials. contemporary Sculptures in the gardens include works by James Turrell – Skyspace 2006; richard long’s Full Moon circle; Stephen cox has two different sculptures on view – interior Space in the woods, and Flask ii in the south loggia; Anya gallaccio has designed The Sybil hedge based on the signature of the late lady cholmondeley, who lived at houghton
for 60 years; the latest installation is by Zhang wang entitled Scholar rock 85. The Stable Square houses The Model Soldier collection, one of the finest and largest private collections in the world, with 20,000 models displayed in the various famous battle formations. The restaurant, provides morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. There is a well-stocked gift Shop. The Stable building reflects the elegant age of riding and coach-horses. The award-winning five-acre walled garden, is laid out into ‘garden rooms’ divided by trimmed yew hedges. A stunning 120-yard double herbaceous border runs through the centre of the garden. The rose parterre, with more than 150 varieties of English roses, kitchen garden, fountains, including waterflame by Jeppe hein, statues, glasshouse and rustic temple, make a visit to this garden a most relaxing and enjoyable experience.
HOUGHTON INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS 22-25 May HOUGHTON HALL MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S BALL LITERARY GARDEN PARTY – WYNDSTOCK 20-22 June Houghton Hall, king’s lynn, Norfolk, pE31 6uE. Tel: 01485 528569 Email: info@houghtonhall.com www.houghtonhall.com open Sunday 4th May – Sunday 19th october wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays and bh Mondays 10:30am–4:00pm. house open 11:00am – 4:45pm – last admission 3:45 pm. Adult: £12.50 child (5-16yrs): £4.50 Family (2+3): £28.50. Everything but the house: Adult £9.00 child £3.00 (5-16 yrs) Family £21 (party discount for groups of 20+)
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WAVENEY VALLEY
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The River Waveney Trust’s aims are to ensure the river and its surroundings are maintained and made as accessible as possible.
The river is at the heart of a valley which offers an enticing area for recreational activities. Some involve the river itself; some are focused on the structures and heritage built over many centuries. Travel slowly and tarry awhile. Visitors are entranced by the quiet stillness and see the natural beauty as a reason for exploring.
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River Waveney Catchment Area
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Join as a member online at www.riverwaveneytrust.org
The waveney forms the county boundary between Norfolk and Suffolk and flows 59 miles (95km) from its source at redgrave to the sea at great yarmouth. it is a classic lowland river,slow flowing and meandering until it becomes tidal whence it changes character and becomes part of the Southern broads. Joining the river yare, the waveney becomes breydon water and forms a magnificent esturine landscape before flowing the final length to the North Sea.
A 14 0
The centre was officially opened by griff rhys Jones in october.
The river has been much modified by man over the centuries. Significant market towns have grown up along or close to the waterway and industry, mainly farming based or dependent, has prospered by claiming power and food from the water.
Discover the River Waveney
14 3
The Trust recently signed a lease with the otter Trust to establish the river waveney Study centre at its former headquarters in Earsham. Educational and entertainment events and a variety of courses on environmental and habitat issues will be held there.
Aldeburgh
10 km 10 miles
Map illustration by Splice Creative www.splicecreative.co.uk © River Waveney Trust
Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2013
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wAVENEy VAllEy
CYCLING The waveney Valley is ideal for cycling, with quiet roads, gentle slopes and beautiful countryside. Sustrans National cycle route 1 and regional routes 30, 31 and 40 all pass through the area. both Norfolk and Suffolk county councils offer cycle routes on their websites. in addition The broads Authority publishes a good set of circular routes.
CANOEING canoes have the advantage of silence, allowing you to get close to wildlife whilst enjoying the beautiful landscape of the waveney Valley from a swan’s eye perspective. Enjoyed by any age, the waveney below Scole is a delight to explore. portages are provided around most sluices. canoes can be hired at bungay, geldeston and beccles.
WALKING The waveney Valley is crossed by a network of footpaths and bridleways making walking a pleasure and the ideal way to explore the area. The long-distance path Angles way follows the river waveney for much of its length and there are many shorter nature trails and circular walks.
SAILING Sailing activities are focused on the tidal stretch with active sailing clubs at beccles and on oulton broad. For the beginner, sailing tuition can be organized via the clubs and they stage regattas throughout the Summer. As part of the Southern broads, the tidal section is navigable by sailing and motor cruisers with day launches available for hire from most boatyards.
Be Inspired by the River Waveney The river has long been the home and inspiration for authors, painters and those with creative talent. unsurprisingly it is the river and landscape of the valley which has provided the bursts of creativity recorded by Sir Alfred Munnings, rider haggard, richard Mabey, roger Deakin and others. living musicians, poets and writers continue to draw inspiration from the river. The waveney Valley supports many lively art collectives. The recently formed network of artists and organisations, waveney and blyth Arts, is the hub for many local creative people and venues. The market towns support a number of local festivals and art trails, most held during the Summer months.
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WILDLIFE The waveney, surrounded by fen, carr woodland and grazing marsh, provides a variety of differing habitats supporting diverse species of wildlife. carefully managed Fen and wetland along the waveney provides superb opportunities for sightings throughout the year. From our iconic kingfisher through to magnificent marsh harriers and barn owls, the waveney is home to an abundance of species.
FISHING A long tradition of coarse fishing has been established on the waveney. The lower reaches are the territory of sea trout, bream and pike with tench, perch, roach, dace and chub well established in the upper reaches.
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Bressingham a unique day out for all the family
For where else would you be able to ride on a Victorian roundabout, indulge a passion for all things steam-driven, wallow in nostalgia for one of television’s best-loved comedies and glory in gardens that offer a glimpse of horticultural heaven? Add a couple of railways running around and across the site, a genuine old signal box, a museum, restaurant and picnic place, and the mix soon promises something for everyone, young and old alike. privately owned by the bloom family. Adrian bloom and his father Alan each created a six acre garden, the Dell and Foggy bottom. Together with the
other linking gardens, there are now over 8,000 species and varieties on display. Alan blooms’s other passion – for steam led to bressingham becoming home to a fine collection of traction engines and locomotives. The Dad’s Army collection is another piece of serendipity. Some of bressingham’s vehicles were used in the much-loved sitcom when it was filmed around Thetford. bressingham has extended the wartime spirit by recreating walmington-on-Sea in its museum. Situated close to the town of Diss, bressingham’s main season runs from Easter to the end of october, with steam and non-steam days throughout.
There is also a special events programme running throughout the summer. Visitors can ride through the glorious gardens on one of the four working railways or step back in time on the working Victorian steam carousel ‘the gallopers’, the beautiful painted horses that eternally travel ‘up and down’ and three-abreast around bressingham’s restored steam carousel. There is always something for all the family at bressingham. you can even stay as a bed-and-breakfast guest in Alan bloom’s old home of bressingham hall. or failing that, take home a bloom’s bloom from the adjacent garden centre.
bressingham Steam Museum & gardens, low road, bressingham, Diss ip22 2AA. Telephone: 01379 686900 For more details visit www.bressingham.co.uk or www.bressinghamgardens.com
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Diss great for antique hunting, cosy cafes and worldclass gardens. HISTORY
GET YOUR BEARINGS
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 redbrick georgian houses and elegant Victorian dwellings.
There are many thriving shops and cafes, including Amandines café on Norfolk house courtyard. This converted redbrick warehouse has outside tables for sunny days.
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.
MARKET DAYS 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. There is a market every Friday and flea markets and farmers’ markets are held on the first Saturday of the month at 9am - 1pm.
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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. There is also Quaker wood opened by richard Mabey in 2010, This five- acre community woodland off Factory lane is a welcome addition to the town’s natural resources.
find information on five long- distance walks that cross South Norfolk at www.south-norfolk.gov.uk/visiting 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 Dad’s 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!
DON’T MISS
SHOWS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
on Fridays an antiques and collectables auction is held at gazes Saleroom, which is highly recommended by locals and visitors.
JuNE Diss Carnival and Fun Day July WoW Music Festival
THINGS TO DO AND SEE The waveney Valley has some great countryside so why not explore on a cycle? you can download maps of nine cycle routes around the Diss area and
HOTSPOT The greyhound pub, ip22 4lb
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Just across the Norfolk border lies Suffolk. A bustling county that offers great days out and delivers ideas a plenty for family adventures.
iN SuFFolk
The Coast
History
The Arts
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.
Step back in time with Suffolk’s variety of castles, halls and burial grounds.
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.
catch the rowboat ferry to walberswick, which provides a great site for crabbing. Not far away is Thorpeness which has a peter panthemed rowing lake. oulton broad, however, is the southern gateway to the broads National park. hire a boat and navigate your own voyage or take part in water sports. Family-friendly lowestoft has two vast blue Flag beaches, two lively piers and a range of attractions to entertain the whole family.
SUFFOLK
kentwell hall has been the leader in large-scale domestic living history since 1979. Visitors can enjoy recreations 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.
MAy HIGHTIDE FESTIVAL JuNE ALDEBURGH FESTIVAL July JIMMY'S SAUSAGE & BEER FESTIVAL LATITUDE FESTIVAL NEWMARKET FESTIVAL BUNGAY ANTIQUES STREET MARKET PEASENHALL PEA FESTIVAL
if you are a benjamin britten fan, you should visit Aldeburgh. he 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). 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.
AuguST SNAPE PROMS ALDEBURGH CARNIVAL & REGATTA lATE SEpTEMbEr – ocTobEr ALDEBURGH FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL NoVEMbEr 24TH ALDEBURGH POETRY FESTIVAL WAYS WITH WORDS SOUTHWOLD LITERATURE FESTIVAL
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FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE
BRANDESTON HALL
boarding & day school (13-18)
boarding & day prep school (2½-13)
To arrange a private visit, please visit our website:
framcollege.co.uk Registered Charity Number: 1114383
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.
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’.
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
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
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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 family business that has been trading for nearly fifty years.
Jayrest interiors in hadleigh is renowned for quality handmade furniture and upholstery. it is nearly fifty 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.
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.”
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.
A huge advantage for customers coming to Jayrest is the fact that the factory is right next door to the showroom. Never again will you have to worry about unpredictable delivery times.
Another asset to the business is that Jayrest takes pride in being one of the few remaining british manufacturers still in existence. lynda comments: The british furniture trade is still going through a difficult time with many british businesses forced out by cheaper, imported furniture. we are proud that we have found the niche in the market for the people who want the quality and the service that we can offer, as well as keeping the local economy strong and local people in jobs. Also, there are no high street overheads, and our customers are often surprised by the reasonable prices for wonderful products.” it is the bespoke service and attention to detail that really sets Jayrest apart from some other furniture manufacturers and retailers. lynda explains: “i love what i do. i understand that the whole thing can be daunting for customers and an expensive mistake if they get it wrong. “i try to make the experience in our showroom an enjoyable one where customers feel comfortable. i get great pleasure in seeing a customer who really doesn’t know how to go about refurbishing a room, then giving then a little guidance to help them walk away with something that they are thrilled with.”
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For your free brochure call 01473 822 683 / 828 268 Jayrest Interiors, 47 Lady Lane Industrial Estate, Hadleigh, SuďŹ&#x20AC;olk IP7 6BQ
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You'll be hard pressed to find somewhere more securely held in the hearts of its loyal customers than the Anchor Inn in Morston. For many it's the sheer, unpretentious brilliance of its mouth-watering menus using produce sourced as locally as a few feet away – like Morston's marvellous mussels grown right near its doorstep. To others it's the warm and uniquely welcoming atmosphere blended with the perfectly-stored local ales and well-priced wines all served by friendly enthusiastic staff. Indeed such is the popularity that the Anchor Inn has deservedly held the title of EDP's Restaurant of the Year as well as being voted one of the Top Ten Coastal Pubs on BBC's Country File. It is the vision of former school friends Harry Farrow and Rowan 'Ro' Glennie, whose reputation as Norfolk's youngest publicans, does not detract from their years of combined experience working at the top of their game in London which they now bring to this unforgettable table. It was their dream to own a pub in their childhood home of North Norfolk – renowned for its seafood, game and ales – in which they could share their passion for
locally-sourced, good quality yet affordable food. In June 2011 they took over the Anchor Inn, with its rich history of smuggling, in pretty Morston just along the coast from Blakeney. Following a tasteful refurbishment they have enjoyed building up a thriving business with a loyal clientele ever since. Their ethos is simple – they believe in serving classic dishes but delivering them extremely well with a passion and an eye for detail which means every dish is lovingly prepared, like a mini culinary work of art. They love nothing more than discovering what their customers really like. With Harry at the helm of innovation in the kitchen and Ro gathering opinions and serving up at front of house they make for a great partnership anchored in a shared love of food. The pair pride themselves on the quality of their produce including fabulous local fruit and vegetables, rare breed meats and ales from Winters, Woodfordes and Adnams. Their wines are all supplied by local
The Anchor Inn The Street Morston Norfolk NR25 7AA
merchants who have sourced them from smaller often underrated vineyards promising to perfectly complement whatever Harry is sending out from the kitchen. There is something different on the menu every day as well as their highly successful Curry Thursdays – offering a curry and a drink for a tenner. Or French Fridays which promises anything from cassoulet to coq au vin – two delicious courses from £13 - £15. Voila! Food is served in a relaxed atmosphere where customers can either enjoy the ambience of the more traditional restaurant or kick back in the dogfriendly bar with its crackling open fire in the winter. In the summer months visitors can enjoy the newly refurbished beer garden. To follow them on twitter go to @morstonanchor. Or visit their website on www.morstonanchor.co.uk
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NORFOLK
Staying in Norfolk doesn’t just involve seeing beautiful countryside, walking alluring coastal paths or discovering the rich history of the architecture. It’s also about sampling the wonderfully locally produced food. The county is packed with gourmet restaurants and an amazing amount of first class producers, farm shops, delis and foodie emporiums. 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. With over 29 breweries in the county – there is plenty to choose from.
Norfolk Saffron This once imported, earthy spice is now grown locally without compromising its rich taste. Sally Francis, Oxfordeducated botanist and owner, has cultivated a high-quality product that conforms to the top international grade for saffron. A tiny pinch of the whole, intact threads go a long way, jazzing up your cooking for zero air miles. Baking and dying workshops are available for anyone in need of a little saffron inspiration. www.norfolksaffron.co.uk
Here are just a few of the best suppliers and foodie delights available... Candi’s Chutney When it comes to Candi’s chutney, the awards speak for themselves. Most recently, their classic Parsnip and Red Chilli Chutney received two gold stars from the Guild of Fine Food. The Spiced Carrot Chutney or Norfolk Crier Onion Marmalade are a tangy compliment to local cheeses or cold meats, so much so that they have quickly become regional favourites. Look out for the piquant seasonal specials, such as Rhubarb, Date and Ginger. www.candischutney.vpweb.co.uk
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Marsh Pig The very best British free-range pork and a spot of patience are a winning combination at Marsh Pig. No cooking is involved in the creation of this hand-made Norfolk charcuterie, only weeks of waiting while the product cures. The flavour of each slice is perfected by a hint of herbs or spices, from Fennel Salami to Hot Chorizo. For a rustic take on continental favourites, try the air-dried cuts of Lomo or Bresaola. www.marshpig.co.uk
The English Whisky Co. Coming from England’s first registered whisky distilling company in over 100 years, the whisky made at St. George’s distillery in Roudham has a unique edge over its Scottish competitors. Their multiple award-winning single malt is batch produced by hand, matured in fine casks and bottled on site using water from the Brekland aquifer. To find out more, nothing beats a guided tour of the distillery itself. www.englishwhisky.co.uk
Mr Hugh’s Cold Pressed rapeseed oil Mr Hugh’s Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil is grown, pressed and bottled at Hall Farm, Fincham, Norfolk. Hugh Mason, the man behind the brand and whose family has been farming in Norfolk for over 200 years, says: ‘We are very proud that our values have been recognised with the award of ‘Plough to Plate Champion’ in the 2013 Norfolk Food & Drink Awards. We are prouder still, though, when people buy and cook with our oil.’ www.mrhughs.co.uk www.larchwoodfoods.co.uk
Bonallack Great Granola Chunky helpings of fruit, nuts and seeds are what sets North Norfolk based company Bonallack apart from commercial granolas. What’s more, it is also slow cooked and contains less sugar, salt or fillers. Since winning a Great Taste award for their original granola sold at the Creake Abbey farmer’s market, the range has expanded to tasty combinations of apple, cinnamon and cranberry or the more indulgent stem ginger and walnut. www.greatgranola.co.uk continued on page 136
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THE CROWN HOTEL 01328 710 209 www.crownhotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk E: crownhotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk
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THE SHIP HOTEL
www.shiphotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk E: shiphotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk
01485 210 333
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Cookie’s Crab Shop 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. Salthouse 01263 740352
Blakeney Delicatessen 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. Blakeney 01263 740939
CoCoe’s Cafe and Deli
Macarons and More Having lived in Norwich since the age of seven, Masterchef 2010 finalist Tim Kinnaird has at last opened his first patisserie shop in the city. Following a career in medicine, appearing on the show inspired him to quit the day job and seriously pursue his lifelong passion for baking- and the results are quite outstanding. Located in the bustling Royal Arcade, Macarons and More offers twenty distinct flavours of macaron, from the award winning Salt Caramel to the delicate Norfolk Lavender. This brilliant taste is achieved without the use of any artificial colourings or flavourings; ever-creative Tim looks instead to natural ingredients such as marigold and grape skins. Aesthetically, these colourful discs are second-tonone; just one glance at the beautiful macaron towers will have you ordering one for your next big celebration! Having been awarded Runner up in the Observer Food Monthly Independent Retailer category, we are sure the best is yet to come for Tim.
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. Swaffham 01760 723845
Norwich Market Don’t leave the county without trying Norwich Market – It's the country’s largest open-air six day a week market.
Did you know? Norwich City of Ale Festival 22 May – 1 June North Norfolk Food Festival 30 August – 5 October Brecks Food and Drink Festival 3rd week of September Waveney Valley Food Festival October Aylsham Food Festival October Norwich Beer Festival (CAMRA) 27 October – 1 November
www.macaronsandmore.com
BLAKENEY DELICATESSEN Fine food & wine Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am – 5.30pm 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
@BlakeneyDeli BlakeneyDeli
SALAMIS
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Home to the best Sausage Rolls in Norfolk
HAMS AND
PICNICS
s B R E A D s G R E AT W I N E S F RO M A RO U N D T H E WO R L D s O I L S s
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Back to the Garden, the organic farm shop, cafĂŠ and restaurant on the A148 near the historic town of Holt. Winner, Best Independent Food and Drink Retailer, EDPEDP foorfoor awards 2013 awards 2013
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Winner, Best Organic Rump Steak, Best Organic Rib of Beef, Soil Association Awards 2013 Winner, Best Organic Chicken, Soil Association Awards 2012 Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 17,00pm Sunday 8.00am - 16.00pm Evening Dining: Saturday 19.00pm - 21.00pm Summer Wednesday & Thursday 19.00pm - 21.00pm
SHOP WITH US ONLINE AT www.back-to-the-garden.co.uk www.back-to-the-garden.co.uk twitter : @back_togarden facebook : backtothegardennorfolk
Fakenham Road, Letheringsett, NR5 7JJ 01263 715996
the of EaTiNG ouT Morston Hall Morston
Titchwell Manor Hotel Near Brancaster
Celebrating twenty-two years, Morston Hall is an intimate country house hotel with its origin in the seventeenth century. It is located two miles from Blakeney on the spectacular North Norfolk coast and provides an ideal place for guests to relax and recharge themselves.
Titchwell Manor, a coastal boutique hotel near Brancaster, is renowned for its superb three AA Rosette cuisine. Named Best Restaurant and Pub Dining at the Eastern Daily Press Norfolk Food and Drink Awards 2013, the hotel offers a smart retreat for those seeking fine dining in stylish surroundings, complete with stunning sea views.
Morston Hall has won great praise from regional and national press, including East Anglia Small Hotel of the Year, also for its outstanding cuisine and high standard of accommodation. It is also listed in The Sunday Times Top 100 Restaurants. The restaurant holds both three AA rosettes’ and a Michelin Star award and is open each evening for dinner and Sunday’s for lunch, offering a daily changing menu using the finest of what Norfolk produce has to offer. Without doubt one of Norfolk’s favourite places to dine and stay.
Head Chef Eric Snaith’s renowned innovative style, focuses on modern European cuisine taking advantage of the fantastic local fish and seafood as well as fine game and meat from nearby estates. Guests can choose to dine in either the elegant, candlelit Conservatory overlooking the garden, or in the striking and informal Eating Rooms, complete with sea view terrace and bar. An à la carte menu is on offer for lunch and dinner, while a four or eight-course Conversation Menu with optional matched wines is also available every evening in the Conservatory. The latter showcases Eric’s signature experimental style and exquisite presentation. Sunday lunch is served between 12pm and 2.30pm, while the hotel’s famous Afternoon Tea is served in the Eating Rooms and lounge from 12 noon until 5pm daily.
morston hall
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the best of EaTiNG ouT Strattons Swaffham
Briarfields Titchwell
Strattons is an award winning boutique hotel recognised for its unique style and strong environmental ethics. The hotel has 12 bedrooms, 2 self catering apartments, a 40 cover restaurant and an onsite café deli 'CoCoes'.
Located in Titchwell, Briarfields’ restaurant offers an inventive and constantly evolving menu. Simple starters include Scotch quails 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 is open daily from 6.30pm and every Sunday Lunch. Everything is made on site and the kitchen has a committed philosophy to use the plentiful and abundant seasonal produce on its own Norfolk doorstep as well as eggs from the hotels hens, garden herbs and fruit from the orchard. On the menu you might see pigeon pie in rich puff pastry, roasted beets and pickled walnuts, 24 hour slow roast Oxborough black pig or roasted Norfolk quail with sage & olive oil crusted Maris Peer potatoes, cauliflower cheese, braised fennel, butternut hash or delicious chocolate jaffa tart with coffee icecream and jaffa syrup. Extensive wine list featuring some organic and bio-dynamic examples. Large groups, children and parties welcome.
Main dishes include 10oz, 21-day aged sirloin steak and chips, roast mushroom, tomato, dressed salad and homemade mustard, Sous-vide pork belly, prawn, chilli and dashi broth, new potato and coriander beignet, spring onions with crispy black cabbage. Dishes use meat from local suppliers and it is here that Briarfields excels – the hotel’s owners favour fellow local suppliers and the quality shines through. Dessert lovers will be enchanted by plum tart tatin, laced with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb, Baileys bread and butter pudding and white chocolate cheesecake. Briarfields is truly a Norfolk delight.
Cafe deli ‘CoCoes’ is open most days, offering great coffee, triple alliance teas, organic wine, local beers, homemade cakes & cookies, all day breakfast or a proper lunch, light bites, deli produce and tasty take out. Fully licensed with a monthly foodie night, usually the first Wednesday of the month. Visit us online for more information at www.strattonshotel.com
LUXURY WITHOUT SACRIFICE TO THE ENVIRONMENT
strattons hotel with Self catering, Restaurant & Café deli
... to start ted baby pie, roas ts £7.50 Pigeon walnu d le ck pi beets, oked in a crab co rt Cromer boozy po ith w style Britanny amel with ch bé & s m mushroo ust £7.95 cr e ... ns lpin Aai anm 24 hr slow cooked Sc CoCoes café deli ott’s Field belly po Open Monday to Saturday, fully squeak, cauli rk, bubble & flower chee se, sage & apple licensed. Tapas night on the first , Elveden ca rrots, cider musta Wednesday of every month. rd gravy £1 8 Sq uash & radi Coffee, cakes, teas, snacks, lunches, cchio risot wa to, rm Alpine cr take away and local produce. eam dressin roastedh. g, sq..uash & ra is fin th to wi di s hio Telephone 01760 723845 doughnutcc Cinnamon Ash Close, Swaffham icecream £7 e anut butter pe th coffe enquiries@strattonshotel.com jaffa tart wi Chocolate fa syrup £7 www.strattonshotel.com jaf d an am icecre rrel monds, so candied al Quote ‘BONMAG’ to receive a free bottle of house wine with your meal. £8
The Rustic Restaurant Open every evening from 6.30pm. Sunday Lunch from 12 to 2.30pm Functions, celebrations, group gatherings and business meetings. Lunch by arrangement Mon to Sat.
One bottle per table & booking, excludes NYE, Valentines, Easter & Mothers Day, minimum of 2 courses must be taken by all table & booking. Usual terms & conditions apply.
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the of EaTiNG ouT Beechwood Hotel North Walsham
The Norfolk Mead Hotel Coltishall
The Beechwood is a great place to eat. It’s run by people who are passionate about food and the restaurant is the hub of the operation.
afternoon Tea At the Norfolk Mead we love the tradition of afternoon tea and we believe you will too – take a stroll in the grounds and watch the longboats on the River Bure or the wildfowl on our private lake before settling into our plush sofas to enjoy each other’s company over a delightful afternoon tea.
Our Head Chef, Steven Norgate is one of the leading chefs in East Anglia, and the AA has awarded his cooking two Restaurant Rosettes. His menus are local, supplier driven and reflective of the seasons. Each evening his brigade prepare a ‘Ten-Mile Dinner’, where he sources all ingredients, where possible, from within about ten miles of the hotel. Cromer Crab, Morston mussels, Thornham oysters, Sheringham lobster and local meat and vegetables are all served when in season. To complement the cuisine there is an extensive wine list, first growths feature alongside fine burgundy, biodynamic and natural wines. After you’ve eaten, why not stay? The Beechwood has 17 delightful bedrooms; Vi-Springs beds, large Georgian windows, squashy duvets, mounds of pillows, Molton Brown toiletries and fluffy bathrobes are features of all the rooms. And in the morning, after a good night’s sleep, why not tuck into Eggs Benedict or poached haddock.
When the weather is inclement roaring fires and our cozy log-burners ensure any autumnal or winter chills are kept at bay. Dinner Dinner is served every evening of the week in our lively yet intimate restaurant. Executive Chef, Anna Duttson and our experienced team design the menus around locally sourced, quality ingredients to provide a simply delightful dining experience. Our range of wines has been carefully selected to complement the menus and ensure that everyone can find a wine that they love at the Norfolk Mead.
Beechwood Hotel
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Church Loke, Coltishall, Norfolk, NR12 7DJ info@norfolkmead.co.uk 01603 737531 www.norfolkmead.co.uk
the of EaTiNG ouT The Pheasant Hotel Kelling
The Hoste Burnham Market
The Pheasant Hotel is a short five minute drive from the Georgian town of Holt with its charming shops and galleries. It is perfectly placed to visit the wonderful beaches and marshland of Salthouse, Cley, Blakeney, Morston and Wells.
The Hoste gained a new dimension in 2013 with the opening of the Garden Room Restaurant, the private Dining Lodge and spacious Reception.
We’re passionate about consistently high quality food. We serve imaginative classic dishes, whether it’s in our attractive gardens, our bar, à la carte in The Garden Restaurant or indeed your own private dining room. Our chefs enthusiastically prepare all of our food and we use local produce wherever possible, from our own Kelling Estate lamb to fresh crab and mussels direct from coast. Or try our sumptuous afternoon tea – a real North Norfolk treat! Whatever you love to eat and however great your love of wine, why not enjoy it with us at the Pheasant Hotel!
This famous four star hotel now has five restaurant areas, each boasting two rosettes and offering a variety of choices for both resident and non-resident guests, whether they visit for lunch, dinner, afternoon tea or traditional Norfolk breakfast. Menus at The Hoste have always been regularly altered to reflect the seasonality of ingredients and the availability of local produce. Head Chef, James O’Connor, has developed a flexible approach underlining his determination to produce dishes which utilise the freshest ingredients. Working closely with The Hoste’s suppliers, this occasionally results in the menu changing daily, emphasising The Hoste’s commitment to serve meals created with the finest food, from the hotel’s award-winning kitchens. Fine dining is available in the Garden Room Restaurant, Historic Restaurants, Dining Lodge and Cellar Restaurant. A simpler menu is available in the hotel bar, conservatory and reception areas, where afternoon tea is also served.
& Restaurant
Kelling, North Norfolk NR25 7EG 01263 588382 enquiries@pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk www.pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk
The Green, Burnham Market, Norfolk, PE31 8HD 01328 738777 reception@thehoste.com www.thehoste.com
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the ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C; of EaTiNG ouT Roger Hickmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant Norwich
St Giles House Hotel Norwich
Roger Hickmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant on Upper St Giles Street in Norwich occupies a space that has long been associated with excellent dining. Roger Hickman himself was formerly the head chef at what was previously renowned Michelinstarred eatery Adlardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.
SGH Bistro offers a relaxed two AA Rosette dining experience within the stylish setting of St Giles House Hotel. The diverse, seasonal menus offer everything from breakfast and morning coffees, light lunches to three-course dinner. To complement their menus, the extensive wine list has been created and sourced from local suppliers, offering an excellent range to suit all palates and occasions.
Now, Roger Hickmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has established itself as a tour de force in its own right in the fine dining arena, being the only restaurant in Norwich to hold a prestigious AA 3 Rosette Award. Inside, the restaurant is classic and elegant in style while maintaining an air of understatement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; because the real draw here is the food. There are three menus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Tasting Menu, a Lunch Menu and a multi-course Table dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hote Dinner Menu. All offer a handful of tantalizing choices for each course, usually featuring at least one fish, meat and vegetarian dish.
The cosy wood-panelled lounge provides the ideal setting to enjoy the delights of their afternoon tea, with fresh scones filled with cream and jam and selection of cakes. At SGH Bistro and bar, the aim is to not only focus on great, freshly prepared food but on providing a relaxed and friendly atmosphere to make your experience a memorable one. Private dining rooms, catering from six-50, are also available to make that special occasion a little more unique.
The dishes are beautifully presented and taste fresh and delicious (as youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect being composed of reassuringly high quality seasonal ingredients).
A fine dining establishment serving modern British food
Open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday to Saturday Full Ă la carte menu, plus
menus AA Rosette restaurant
Unique accommodation, stylish Bar & Bistro dining The foodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great and the welcomeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always warm at St Giles!
Hotel
Tel: 01603 633522 79 Upper St Giles Street, Norwich, NR2 1AB Book online: www.rogerhickmansrestaurant.com
150 the ď&#x20AC;&#x192;ď&#x20AC;&#x2020;ď&#x20AC;&#x2019;ď&#x20AC;&#x201C; of Norfolk
41 - 45 St. Giles Street, Norwich TEL: 01603 275180 stgileshousehotel.com
Spa The
Visit www.stgileshousehotel.com/spa Unwind in a world of blissful indulgence at The Spa at St Giles.
at St Giles
FARM SHOPS The farm shops 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 you will often find the best of local produce available at farm shops and deli’s. This locally-based, eco-friendly way to shop enables you to find out where your produce comes from at source. The farm shops 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.
Algy’s Farm Shop
Groveland Farm Shop
THE HOME OF BINTREE BIRD SEEDS AND ALGYS NORFOLK POPCORN.
Situated 3 miles south of Cromer, Groveland Farm Shop draws on many years of experience selling the freshest produce from the very best local producers.
Come and visit our new farm shop at Bintree. We now stock a large range of locally grown and produced fine foods; from milk to meat; pies to pickles; chicken to cheese; fish to fruit we have it all!
Located in a traditional Norfolk flint barn, Groveland Farm Shop includes a restaurant & coffee shop, deli, butchery, bakery, drinks cellar, garden centre and craft shop. As well as fresh local fruit, veg, jams, chutneys and gluten/dairy/vegan products we also stock outdoor clothing, pet food & accessories. Much more than just a Farm Shop the Groveland complex also includes a car wash, hair & beauty salon and chiropractor.
We grow our own asparagus, sweetcorn, pumpkins, squashes as well as our famous popcorn and bird seeds. Why not 'pop in' for a really local shopping experience! 01362 683893 or 07775 517473 info@norfolkpopcorncomany.co.uk
Farm to Fork and Fish We offer fresh, seasonal and local produce to ensure our customers get top quality products and service from our friendly and helpful staff. Meat from our farm, crab & lobster from Billy Gaff at Cromer.
We look forward to seeing you and assure you of a warm friendly welcome at all times. 01263 833777 www.grovelandfarmshop.co.uk
Plus a fantastic range of deli products and Hampers for those special people in your life, for Christmas, days out or anniversaries. Opening times: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm. Sat 8.30-4pm. Sun 10am-3pm. Farm to Fork and Fish Norwich Road, Horstead, NR12 7EE 01603 266129 www.farmtoforkandfish.co.uk
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Norfolk GallEriES & arTiSTS
Woodland Walk Textile and ďŹ bre, embellished with stitch. By Pauline Wrighton www.oaksidestudio.co.uk
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the ï&#x20AC;&#x192;ï&#x20AC;&#x2020;ï&#x20AC;&#x2019;ï&#x20AC;&#x201C; of Norfolk 153
THE ď&#x20AC; ď&#x20AC;?ď&#x20AC;&#x2018;ď&#x20AC;&#x2022;ď&#x20AC;&#x160;ď&#x20AC;&#x201E;ď&#x20AC;&#x2030; 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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;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.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first meeting was in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Hole in the Wallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Norfolk and Suffolk Institution for the Promotion of the Fine Artsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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 water-colours anticipate French impressionism.
The reason the Norwich School artists are not so well known as other painters of the period, notably Constable and 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 (1 July â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 29 September) Monday to Saturday: 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm Sunday: 1pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm loW SEaSoN Monday to Saturday: 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4.30pm Sunday: 1pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4.30pm Closed 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 26 December 2014 and 1 January 2015 Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery Castle Hill | Norwich NR1 3JU.
www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk
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A highly regarded gallery situated in one of the oldest buildings in the village, just a five minute stroll from the Market Place. Burnham Grapevine represents locally and nationally recognised artists as well as our selection of new talent Paintings & prints – including Max Angus Michael Chapman, Harry Cory Wright and Gerard Stamp Sculpture & ceramics from local makers including Neal French, Polly Ionides, David Killick, Stephen Parry and Ruthanne Tudball and from across the country
Overy Road, Burnham Market, PE31 8HH 01328 730125 • www.burnhamgrapevine.co.uk
burnham grapevine gallery
BROAD SKIES GALLERY
THE GARDEN HOUSE GALLERY & SHOP An ever changing array of work by local artists and crafts people. Gifts for the home and garden from across the UK and further afield.
Escape & Be Inspired Working Artists Studio &
Gallery of Norfolk Artisans Work: Jewellery Ceramics Wood Glasswork Art Materials
Fresh Bean Coee & Cakes
Ludham Bridge NR NX Tel:
Painting Tuition for Groups & Individuals Norfolk, Suffolk, London, Somerset, France, Morocco
paintncanvasholidays.co.uk
31, GARDEN STREET, CROMER. NORFOLK NR27 9HN 01263 511234 info@gardenhousegallery.co.uk www.gardenhousegallery.co.uk the of Norfolk 157
The Hoste
Titchwell Manor and Restaurants
Elveden Estate
The Norfolk Mead Hotel
Beechwood Hotel
Bliss Blakeney
Opening doors for your business The Best of Norfolk is the county’s leading annual visitor guide, personalised for hotels, galleries and retailers across Norfolk.
158 the of Norfolk
Congham Hall
The Flying Kiwi Inns
The Pheasant Hotel and Restaurant
Strattons Hotel
Back to the Garden
Urban Armour
Each hotel or business receives their own edition, hotel copies are positioned in bedrooms and lounge areas and available to hotel guests. The Best of Norfolk is also on sale across the region and distributed to numerous boutique hotels, B&Bs and holiday lets.
twitter.com/BestNorfolk
facebook.com/TheBestOfNorfolk
bestnorfolk.com the of Norfolk 159
With the announcement in 2012 that Norwich was 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.
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!)
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.
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 and there are plenty of other smaller celebrations around the county too.
As a result of UEA’s reputation it has been able to attract first class writers to come and teach, many of whom have made the city their home. But writers, both native and those who have settled here, have long found inspiration in Norfolk and the dramatic land and sea-scapes have provided the backdrop for countless books. Some recent titles include Salt by Jeremy Page, Mick Jackson’s The Widow’s Tale, The Last Weekend by Blake Morrison as well as Black Shuck by Piers Warren, (an update of the classic East Anglian Hound of Hell story) and by the children's writer Mal Peet, Life: An Exploded Diagram. From the long list of older books set here a few of the better known including Arthur
160 the of Norfolk
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 ArtsCentre, 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. A visit to anywhere in 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
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
01394 615041 A part of THE SECKFORD FOUNDATION Registered Charity No 1110964