North Norfolk Living Spring 2018

North

Norfolk Spring 2018

Free in Norfolk £1.50 where sold

LIVING

COVERING THE COAST, BURNHAM MARKET, WELLS, HOLT & SURROUNDING VILLAGES

The spring issue A R T S , FA S H I O N , F O O D , I N T E R I O R S , W H A T ’ S O N

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Hello!

Contents

Spring 2018

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ELCOME to our spring issue of North Norfolk Living magazine. As I write, the wind is bitter, the ground covered in snow. But the sun is shining, at least for the moment, a sign of brighter days to come, I tell myself.

And there’s plenty to look forward to this spring in North Norfolk, indoors and out!

This issue features our homes and gardens special including gardening writer Fiona Cumberpatch’s visit to the walled gardens at Blickling and Holkham.

Staying outdoors, we’ve the first in our series of local walks with Nicholas RuddJones, we go wild with Sarah Whittley’s new nature notes column, while Hattie Goodley and her little helpers round up some Easter fun for younger members of the family.

There’s news from the local arts scene plus a host of events and activities to choose from, so diaries at the ready, and enjoy your spring!

Am da Loose Editor

Front cover image: Turnstone by Stephen Clark of Pebbles Photography www.pebblesphotography.co.uk

@NNorfolkLiving @northnorfolkliving North Norfolk Living Magazine www.northnorfolkliving.co.uk Editor & Advertising Manager Amanda Loose Email: amanda@northnorfolkliving.co.uk 07796 645427 Write to North Norfolk Living Magazine, PO Box 208, Stamford. Lincs. PE9 9FY Head of Design Steven Handley Email: steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Advertising Designer Sarah Patterson inkdesign@virginmedia.com Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Published by North Norfolk Living Limited www.northnorfolkliving.co.uk 01780 765571 Printed by Warners of Bourne

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If you would like to subscribe to North Norfolk Living Magazine (5 copies per year), please write to North Norfolk Living Ltd. PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY. Annual rate £15 (UK only) including postage.

Please enclose cheque made payable to North Norfolk Living Ltd. Or you can subscribe via the website at www.northnorfolkliving.co.uk

5-7 Beachcombings

What’s on, what’s good and where to go

8-16 Arts

Harriet Cooper goes round the houses with her guide to exhibitions in local stately homes, plus we’ve news from the North Norfolk arts scene and Amanda Loose catches up with artists Robert Gillmor and Alan Schmidt

45-49 Rewilding

Go wild with Sarah Whittley’s new nature notes column, get into moon and stargazing plus Nicholas RuddJones steps out from Stiffkey to Blakeney in the first of our new series of local walks

19-23 Fashion

Add a pop of colour and shimmer your way through spring with fashion editor Katy Coe’s picks of accessories from local shops and boutiques

27-29 Beauty & Wellbeing

51-52 Little Living

Male grooming plus Harriet Cooper finds out how to supercharge your spring!

Easter egg-citement, muddy puddles, a little shopping and more with Hattie Goodley and her little helpers, Willa and Maud

31-41 Living

55-59 Food & Drink

Dive into our homes and gardens special to discover how to make a splash in your bathroom plus news from the homefront, decorating to the max, and green-fingered news, tips and a tour of the walled gardens at Blickling and Holkham with gardening writer Fiona Cumberpatch

News from the local food scene and Harriet Cooper dons her Sunday best and finds some great places to enjoy a roast

60-62 What’s On

We fill your spring diary, so you don’t have to!

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Beachcombings What’s On, What’s Good & Where To Go!

Photo: © Amy Taylor

A wedding extravaganza You are cordially invited to The Bespoke Wedding Fair at Sussex Barn near Burnham Market, on Saturday 24 March from 11am to 4pm. Meet a hand-picked selection of wedding suppliers including floristry, stationery, wine specialists and decoration, and find inspiration for your big day, then have a look around the 18th century barn - easily one of North Norfolk’s prettiest venues for nuptials.

You’ll also be able to find out more about The White House, the luxury country house available to hire for wedding accommodation, just a stone’s throw away. And if all that makes you feel a bit peckish, the barn’s in-house caters will be on hand with tasty treats too.

Sussex Barn, Sussex Farm, near Burnham Market www.sussexbarn.co.uk

Uncovering local history

Emma Hunter-Bloy

We catch up with Emma as she gets set to return to Burnham Market, as manager of Norfolk Hideaways’ new office in the village at the Foundry Field retail site. Here’s her local lowdown!

Eating at The Black Lion, Little Walsingham, for its fantastic food, excellent staff and general ambience that comes with everyone having a good time.

Drinking a Black Shuck gin and tonic as the sun goes down, it makes the sunsets even more spectacular.

Cooking Norfolk asparagus or Brancaster mussels, then eating Ronaldo’s Ice Cream followed by coffee and chocolates from The Chocolate Deli.

Exploring Blickling Hall is a favourite place of mine to visit at any time of the year. Sheringham Park is a riot of colour in rhododendron season.

Walking the beach between Holkham and Burnham Overy Staithe which is so often deserted and where you can imagine you’re on your own film set, in love with Shakespeare.

Staying at home in Burnham Overy Staithe - we don’t always appreciate just how lucky we are to live here.

Reading Emma by Jane Austen, in which Mr Woodhouse advises “You should have gone to Cromer my dear, if you went anywhere.

Perry was a week at Cromer once and he holds it to be the best of all the sea-bathing places.” www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Holkham Beach © Holkham Estate

Bessie, a whelk boat built for the Cox family of Wells in 1935, has just been verified as Rescue Wooden Boats’ second Dunkirk Little Ship.

Bessie went from Wells in 1940 to help in the evacuation of British forces from Dunkirk.

Chosen for a special sub-mission with three other whelk boats to Bessie as she was collect a party of men, Bessie had to lie off the French coast in extremely dangerous conditions.

Bessie needs major restoration before she works afloat alongside Rescue Wooden Boats’ other Little Ship, Lucy Lavers, and funding is needed to get this work underway.

To find out more visit www.rescuewoodenboats.com

North Norfolk Living with...

Spotted by Richard Campey The Robin is the most commonly heard bird in the Norfolk countryside and gardens in spring.

Their iconic song is instantly recognisable Voted Britain’s national bird, don’t let the Robin’s familiarity and confiding nature fool you into thinking it doesn’t possess a darker side. It is one of the world’s most aggressive birds!

Territorial disputes, which can occur all year round, are often settled by ritualised posturing. However when its rival doesn’t stand down, vicious fighting can follow and one or both combatants can be killed.

Young Robins have no red at all. They are brown in appearance which aids their camouflage in the nest. But they are equally as confident and opportunistic as their parent birds.

The British resident Robin is generally more approachable than the continental migrant birds which arrive in autumn. These birds are paler, more olive and have a lighter neck patch. Most of the British Robins are non-migratory, though some have been known to migrate as far as Spain in the autumn.

© Richard Campey

• Richard is owner of The One Stop Nature Shop, Burnham Deepdale, 01485 211223 www.onestopnature.co.uk. News of the latest sightings can be seen on the board outside One Stop.

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Beachcombings

What’s On, What’s Good & Where To Go!

Retail therapy

Congratulations!

Shoppers are in for a treat. Martin and Sarah Billing, the couple behind Nomad & the bowerbird and Bringing the outside in, are opening a concession store in The Old Granary at Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, on 23 March.

“It will feature a mix of coastal, globally sourced and found objects for both lifestyle and the home, to complement our larger Wells and Holkham shops,” says Martin.

Expect to see some old favourites like the lovely scented candles from Paddywax (pictured) alongside tempting new additions. www.bringingtheoutsidein.co.uk Don’t miss the Deepdale Spring Market with more than 50 Norfolk artisans and producers, from 23 to 25 March, 10am to 5pm. Free entry and parking. www.deepdalespringmarket.co.uk Deepdale Hygge will also be returning that weekend, celebrating the North Norfolk coast, with live music, walking, camping, storytelling and much more. www.deepdalehygge.co.uk Local mum Annie Golding has recently opened Ele and Me in Wells, a lovely children’s shop opposite the Post Office, with a fantastic range of wooden and recycled plastic toys along with open-ended, sensory and educational toys.

“Sustainability is key” says Annie, who also stocks clothing made from organic cotton and recycled materials, from brands including Kite Clothing and Little Green Radicals.

Ele and Me, 1 Bolts Close, Wells 01328 712201 www.eleandme.co.uk

Screen time

Calling all film buffs! Stanhoe Village Screen are showing Breathe (12A) on 23 March starring Andrew Garfield, Claire Foy, Hugh Bonneville and Tom Hollander (7.30pm at Stanhoe Village Hall. £5). Then it’s Goodbye Christopher Robin (PG) on 24 March at the Amy Robsart Hall, Syderstone (7.30pm, tickets £3.50 in advance from 01485 578171 or cinema@syderstone.com. £4 on the door).

On 26 March, Screen-next-the-Sea are showing The Death of Stalin (15) at the Alderman Peel High School, Wells, (7pm, tickets £5 from Wells TIC, 01328 710885, on the door or www.wellscinema.com).

Next up is World War Two thriller, The Exception (15), at North Creake Village Hall on 27 March (7.30pm, tickets £5 from 07905 805388 or pa.lines@tiscali.co.uk).

It’s Thornham Village Cinema’s annual charity film night at Thornham Village Hall on 11 April, with a screening of Dunkirk (12), in support of Scotty’s Little Soldiers (7.30pm, tickets £10 from 07818 028687).

And over at Great Massingham Village Hall, the film club will be screening Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool (15) on 19 April, based on the memoir of actor Peter Turner (7.30pm. £4).

It’s well done to Allen Tomas & Co Financial Management in Dersingham, who have been awarded the prestigious Chartered Financial Planners title by The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII).

Ben Allen Managing director, Ben Allen, who holds the individual Chartered Financial Planner title, says securing Chartered Financial Planners status is a landmark for the company.

“We have always prided ourselves on being thoroughly professional in everything we do, and to receive external recognition in this way is very gratifying.

“As Chartered Financial Planners, we can signal our commitment to the highest levels of service to our customers. To date, less than 700 firms have achieved Chartered status.”

Allen Tomas & Co Financial Management, 01485 541998 www.allentomasfinancial.co.uk

Get connected

Meeting new people can be difficult but Earls & Pearls, a high-end platonic introduction agency founded by mother daughter team Mary-Ann and EmmaJane Henningham, is on hand to help.

EmmaJane explains: “The service involves meeting a series of like-minded individuals over six to 12 months, all of whom have been ID checked and pre-assessed as being compatible based on factors such as interests, proximity and lifestyle.

“This is perfect if you’ve relocated and need help finding a new circle of friends or if you’re recently divorced or widowed, it provides a safe and gentle way of getting out and making new memories.”

For single members, it offers a surprisingly effective alternative to dating services, says EmmaJane. “When the focus is on expanding your social circle, pressure and expectation is reduced and the chance of love finding you when you least expect it increases.”

Though based in London, Earls & Pearls are finding demand for their service is growing outside the capital. “We’ve been inundated with enquiries from Norfolk, especially since January,” says EmmaJane.

For more information visit www.earlsandpearls.com NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Arts

ROUND THE HOUSES North Norfolk’s stately homes are set for a busy spring with everything from contemporary art shows to immersive theatre. Harriet Cooper takes the tour Thomas Coke 1st Earl of 1st creation

by Trevisani © Holkham Estate

Felbrigg Hall Join Felbrigg for its wild and exotic season, an opportunity to explore the curiosities brought to the hall by generations of inhabitants following their adventures around the globe. Visit the Service Wing, where theatre designer Gary McCann has created four cabinets to showcase these weird and wonderful souvenirs. Outside in The Cabinet Room, Felbrigg the walled gardens - which once grew pineapples © National Trust Images and melons - there’s an unusual array of plants, plus there’ll be garden trails, and weekly garden tours from mid-March.

To top it off, you can also see the progress of the restoration of Felbrigg’s Cabinet Room, where William Windham II displayed objects acquired during his four year Grand Tour in the 18th century.

Need to know On display throughout the 2018 season (open daily, 11am to 3pm until 24 March; then 11am to 5pm). Standard admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/felbrigg-hall-gardens-and-estate

Holkham Hall ‘Treasures and Trophies: The Making of a Gentleman and a Great House’, which opens in March at Holkham Hall, is one for the diary.

The interactive exhibition marks the 300th anniversary since Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester, returned from his Grand Tour of Europe, a journey that was to inspire the building of the Hall. Wander round the State Rooms to uncover the fascinating stories behind Thomas’s epic travels and their influence on the Palladian-style mansion and its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and rare books.

This year also marks the 200th anniversary of the death of renowned landscape gardener, Humphry Repton and visitors will also be able to learn more about his work in Holkham Park.

Need to know 25 March to 31 October (Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays, 12pm to 4pm). £16 adults (includes entry to the Field to Fork Experience and Walled Garden), £8 children. www.holkham.co.uk

Librarian John Gandy at Blickling © Antony Kelly

The Red Saloon, Raynham Hall

Blickling Estate

Raynham Hall

Award-winning theatre company Les Enfant Terribles has been commissioned by the National Trust to create an immersive art installation that will highlight not only Blickling’s extensive library (currently undergoing a fiveyear conservation programme), but also the importance of books and their shifting role in a changing world. Set to open in May, visitors can admire a series of installations around the house and grounds, using sound and theatrical design, which will make you question what the world would be like without books.

Need to know 1 May to 28 October (open every day, 12pm to 5pm). Standard admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate

Music lovers are in for a treat. Raynham will host another series of musical recitals this year in its magnificent Marble Hall, under the direction of musical advisor Michael Chance CBE. The first is Monteverdi’s short opera Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda, on 28 April at 7pm. Tickets from £30.

Need to know Raynham is also hosting three open days this year (4 April, 20 June and 5 September), giving visitors the chance to have an exclusive tour of this private house with interiors designed by William Kent. £30, book in advance.

All tickets from 01328 862133 or www. raynhamrecitals.co.uk

Houghton Hall Damien Hirst fans will be delighted that a never-before-seen series of his paintings, entitled Colour Space, will be on display at Houghton Hall from 25 March. The works, a development of Hirst’s iconic spot paintings, will temporarily replace the old masters, which normally hang in the State Rooms. The exhibition will also see a number of the artist’s most celebrated and visually-arresting sculptures displayed throughout the 18th century house and gardens. To coincide with the show, Norfolk By Design’s Pop-Up Shop will be open in the Stables, with a selection of new work by more than 40 of Norfolk’s finest artists and craftspeople (www.norfolk-by-design. co.uk).

Need to know 25 March to 15 July (Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays, 11am to 5pm). £18 adults, children free. www.houghtonhall.com Damien Hirst’s English Lilac (2016), household gloss on canvas © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

THE

RED DOT GALLERY

ALAN SCHMIDT EXHIBITION HAPPENSTANCE

From chance & choice, untold stories and downright lies...

Twenty new works.

THROUGH APRIL

No 7 Fish Hill, Holt, Norfolk.

01263 710287

thereddotgallery.com 9

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Arts

IN THE PICTURE Amanda Loose finds out what’s happening on the local arts scene this spring

Behind the easel

with Alan Schmidt Over the years, Alan has collected an extensive library of printed ephemera, which he draws on to create threedimensional assemblages. This spring, The Red Dot Gallery is hosting ‘Happenstance’, a solo exhibition of these works - expect nostalgia, humour and colour aplenty!

When did you start collecting?

Growing up entranced by the Boy’s Books, Hornby trains and annuals passed on from my father’s 1920s and 1930s childhood, I became an inveterate collector of tin toys, lead soldiers and printed ephemera that celebrated an already distantseeming era heralding the wonders of flight, speed and above all, adventure.

Describe your work ‘Happenstance’ signifies unlooked-for conjunctions, happy coincidences, chance meetings and the endlessly surreal possibilities achievable from delving into the aforesaid lifetime hoard of images and curiosities to discover the untold narrative possibilities therein!

What’s the backstory?

Returning to Norfolk after a 25-year absence involving design practice and creative education, and then a dozen years of painting and exhibiting North Norfolk’s glories, I was gradually drawn back to the idea of constructed illustration, a technique I’d started to develop some 45 years earlier but set aside when the serious business of earning a living beckoned.

What’s your inspiration?

My earliest visual memory is of the colours of a box of Meccano. A love affair with the colour palette of 19th and early 20th century lithographic printing began there and remains undiminished.

Amongst other innumerable influences, the graphic techniques of classic Disney animations and the eclecticism of ‘Pop’ imagery have all found their way into my own approach to the design process.

Happenstance opens at Easter and continues during April at The Red Dot Gallery, Holt 01263 710287 www.thereddotgallery.com

Treading the boards The Auden Theatre in Holt is 20 this year, and to celebrate, they’ll be holding six celebrity events during 2018. The An Audience With series includes an evening with Johnny Ball on 18 May, Simon King on 16 June and Henry Blofeld on 17 June. The Auden Theatre The Theatre also produces a series of subscription concerts throughout the year, as well hosting local groups – The North Norfolk Chamber Opera Society’s production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute is coming up on 12 to 14 April.

For more details about their packed programme visit www.audentheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01263 713444.

The cast of SALT

Norfolk theatre company fEAST is back on the road with its latest play, SALT, an adaptation of the novel by local author Jeremy Page. SALT tells the story of young boy, Pip Langore, trying to make sense of his family’s troublesome history in North Norfolk, from the end of the Second World War to the 1980s. fEAST will tour the county with venues including Sheringham Little Theatre on 28 April, the Alderman Peel High School, Wells on 3 May, Cley Village Hall on 4 May and Sedgeford Village Hall on 5 May. Visit www.feasttheatre.com for more details.

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS Don’t miss the Norfolk Symphony Orchestra’s ‘Impressionist France’ concert in St Nicholas’ Chapel, King’s Lynn, where you’ll be treated to Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune, Chausson’s Poème and two contrasting pieces by Ravel, Le Tombeau de Couperin and Suite No.2 from his ballet Daphnis et Chloé. 25 March at 3.30pm. £16; 100 free tickets available for young concert-goers, contact the Box Office on 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk The Yorke Trust are holding an Easter choral course, culminating in two performances of J.S. Bach’s Cantatas sung by Creakes Baroque Ensemble and Chorus. The first, at St Nicholas’ Chapel, King’s Lynn, will take place on 6 April at 7pm; the second on 7 April at 7pm at St Mary’s Church, South Creake. £18. www.wellsmaltings.org.uk The Sheringham and Cromer Choral Society’s ‘Lux’ concert promises an evening of 21st century choral music celebrating Light, with a lineThe Sheringham and Cromer up of exceptional Choral Society in rehearsal soloists in Cromer Parish Church. 28 April at 7.30pm. £12 (£15 on the door). Under 18s free. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Arts

PRESSING MATTERS

Affectionately known as the grandfather of wildlife art, Robert Gillmor is preparing for what he says will be his last major show this April, ‘Pressing On’ at Pinkfoot Gallery in Cley, along with the launch of his latest book.

Amanda Loose meets the octogenarian printmaker, who just keeps pressing on

Above: Blakeney Barn Owl Left: Avocet and Chicks Right: Temple, Bishop and Bean All linocuts by Robert Gillmor

Left: Robert working in a hide

W

HETHER you know it or not, chances are you’re already familiar with Robert’s work, whether you’ve spotted the logo on the pavement plaques of Holt’s Owl Trail, the iconic RSPB logo, one of his 66 Collins New Naturalist covers or his 46 stamp designs for Royal Mail.

He’s a past president and one of the last surviving founder members of the Society of Wildlife Artists, has contributed to over 500 books and scores of magazines, and was awarded an MBE for services to wildlife art in 2015.

This spring’s exciting new book and exhibition focus on linocuts from the last 12 years; the show will feature over 200 linocuts including New Naturalist covers, his designs for Royal Mail Post & Go stamps as well as some gems from the past.

But Robert is someone who in his own words just “gets on with it,” producing the most exquisite hand-printed linocuts at his home in Cley, on a press dating from 1860 (a model which was shown at the Great Exhibition in 1851).

Robert’s move to Cley, 20 years ago this March, was of huge significance. “Moving up here meant I could really change everything. I wanted to get back to my first love, printmaking, which is really what I’d always wanted to do. I

was keen on birds from a very early age and doing linocuts at school – the 1949 annual report for the Reading Ornithological Club used a crude little linocut of mine for the cover and I’ve been doing their covers ever since.

“Once I got married I had to earn a living and support a family, and printmaking was a luxury.

The press had not been used really since the 1970s, and been in a glasshouse at our home in Reading which became a family dumping ground – you could hardly see the press.

“From my point of view the natural history [up here] was just what I wanted. I could go and get all the ideas I needed sitting in the hides here in Cley, at Titchwell and other places.

“Going and drawing from life is vital. It’s the best possible way to get to know what an animal is really like to try to capture what we call its ‘jizz’, that particular character which each species has.”

The actual printmaking process can take a week, and usually much longer, depending on the number of blocks needed for different colours.

“I love playing around with the colours and over printing to create new colours – on one mad print I used 20 colours. If you do an edition of 85 copies of a five block print, that’s five times 85 and all the prints and inks which don’t

work. It is time consuming.

“The stamps were extremely intense work over two or three years – by the time I’d finished I was practically knocked out by it. I learnt a lot doing it though. After the first sets (Birds of Britain and Farm Animals) I thought that’s it, no more. But then to my great surprise I was commissioned to do Winter Fur and Feathers, and I thought it’s got mammals in it, which I hadn’t done in winter.

“Obviously I do get an enormous enjoyment out of doing this – if I didn’t, I wouldn’t. You need a good eye and a steady hand. There are times when it can get a bit fraught, but I know now pretty well what I’m doing. I don’t work quite as flat out as I used to.”

NEED TO KNOW The Pressing On exhibition opens at 10am on 28 April at Pinkfoot Gallery in Cley and runs to 11 May. Pre-selling starts on 25 April at 10am on 01263 740947. You can view images at www.pinkfootgallery.co.uk.

Pressing On: A Decade of New Linocuts will be published by Mascot Media in April, £25 (£20 from the gallery during the show).

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Arts

PICTURE THIS! Prepare for an exciting season on the local gallery scene with exhibitions galore, says Amanda Loose

Café culture

Creake Abbey Café plays host to a series of exhibitions throughout the year - awardwinning local wildlife photographer David Tipling’s show Norfolk and Beyond continues there until 27 March. Then it’s all change for a solo exhibition of prints by Nigel Wallace, many depicting Norfolk scenes, which runs until 12 June.

Creake Abbey Café & Food Hall, Creake Abbey, North Creake 01328 730399 www.creakeabbey.co.uk High Up In The Cold Air, Holkham by Daniel Cole, Pinkfoot Gallery Cromer by James Dodds, Bircham Gallery

Holkham Beach by Colin Moore, Quay Art Cornflower Skies Over Cley by Richard Barrett, The Flint Gallery

M

AKE sure you catch the Spring Exhibition at the Bircham Gallery in Holt, if you can, showcasing a selection of work by new and established artists. The show, which runs until 21 March, includes new paintings by Peter Clayton, whose current work is inspired by the Norfolk coast, ancient churches and woodland.

From 24 March to 18 April, the gallery will be showing ceramics by Richard Phethean alongside paintings and prints by artist James Dodds. After being apprenticed as a shipwright in Maldon, James studied at Colchester School of Art, Chelsea School of Art and the Royal College of Art. His work follows the coastal variations of the workboat.

Over in Cley, Pinkfoot Gallery has a busy spring ahead. They’re showing new work from Society of Wildlife Artists Dafila Scott and Daniel Cole, plus mouse bronzes, including two beautiful dormouse sculptures mounted on bronze hazel whips, by Norwich based Robin Bouttell.

There’ll also be new work by gallery regulars

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

London, Colin Moore’s passion for our ever- Rachel Lockwood has changing coastal landscape brought him back been out painting around to the harbours, towns and villages around the her studio in Cley. As well coast of the British Isles where he has worked as skyscapes, Pinkfoot will as a printmaker since 2004. be showing her paintings Colin creates traditional original featuring deer, prints from linocuts, many of them owls and foxes, inspired by places along the North all in Rachel’s unique style.

Norfolk coast. His quirky fluid lines Heading along the coast to and application of bold blocks of Blakeney, after adding Richard contrasting colours make for a Barrett’s atmospheric paintings to modern interpretation of familiar their exhibitions last year, he’s now locations. The full series of his one of The Flint Gallery’s most original North Norfolk linocuts can popular artists. be found at Quay Art galleries in Richard, the son of an art Blakeney and Wells. teacher, grew up by the coast The printmaking theme surrounded by pencils, crayons and continues at Gallery Plus in Wells brushes, and much of his recent Empty Boxes by HJ Jackson, whose Easter Print Show runs from work focuses on the North Norfolk Gallery Plus 31 March to 14 April. This year’s coastline. show will feature works from a talented trio of “His paintings are driven by the elements, by printmakers: Graham Clarke, (Gallery Plus will the changing dynamics of weather and light, have the largest collection of his hand-coloured and how this breathes life into the landscape,” copperplate etchings on display in East Anglia, says Flint’s Stuart Stotter-Brooks.

“Richard claims that walking the salt marshes including some rare ones), etchings from Durham-based Anja Percival and linocuts by to the sea under gigantic skies gives a special popular local artist HJ Jackson. sense of space and calm - even on the wild and HJ has celebrated over 60 years of windy days.” printmaking and his work often features Norfolk After an international career as an architect boats and the fishing industry. and designer living in Venezuela, Spain and

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L i ve b e a u t i f u l l y

Elizabeth Stanhope offer a full making up, reupholstery, and project management service.

We look forward to welcoming you into our showroom. www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk 27 Mill St Oakham Rutland LE15 6EA 01572 722 345

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Arts

PICTURE THIS! There’s plenty for art lovers to enjoy in Burnham Market too this spring. Burnham Grapevine is hosting an exhibition of local artist Mari French’s latest collection, from 24 March to 21 April. Grapevine’s Peter Low says: “In the two years since her last exhibition at Burnham Grapevine, Mari French has emerged as probably one of Norfolk’s fastest rising stars on the national art scene, most recently being selected for the Royal Watercolour Society 2018 Contemporary Exhibition.

“The roots of Mari’s art lie in her deep-seated love and affinity with landscape and light. Her latest works reflect ongoing experimentation using paint, ink, collage and oil pastel, with the resulting paintings freer and more expressive.”

Just down the road, Pocock’s the artmonger is showing new sculptures by Laura Pentreath. Laura’s latest bronze and cold cast bronze animal sculptures were inspired by a recent trip to Zimbabwe and include wallowing hippos. The gallery has also just added artist Graham Rider to its ranks - look out for his

Evidence of Spring by Mari French, Burnham Grapevine

paintings of Norfolk beaches.

Meanwhile Fairfax Gallery in Burham Market will be hosting their annual solo exhibition of works by Alice Scrutton depicting the North Norfolk coast, from 17 March to 3 April.

Heading inland, the year is off to a flying start in NR22. Great Walsingham Gallery & Framing has new work by local printmaker Kate Heiss and a refreshed selection of limited edition prints by a variety of artists including new pieces by local artist Nicola Hart.

Next door, Sarah Caswell is immersed in painting new work for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May so you will be able to see her in action in her studio. And don’t miss her exhibition Spring Botanicals, in the restaurant gallery at The King William IV in Sedgeford, from 16 March (01485 571765, www. thekingwilliamsedgeford.co.uk).

Japonica Blush by Sarah Caswell, The King William IV in Sedgeford

Spring Holkham by Alice Scrutton, Fairfax Gallery

Hippos by Laura Pentreath, Pocock’s the artmonger

Land and Sea Hobbies at Ken Hill by Kate Heiss, Great Walsingham Gallery & Framing

Sheringham Museum is celebrating the artwork of the Norwich born artist Rachel Hutchins RCA, who died in March 2015, aged just 30. Rachel had built up a diverse collection of work, often influenced by her love of the North Norfolk coast and its communities. This connection is the focus for Land and Sea, which runs from 24 March to 15 April. The exhibition includes screen prints, scraper boards, portraits and beautiful designs for wallpapers.

Normal museum admission applies. www.sheringhammuseum.co.uk ADDRESS BOOK Bircham Gallery, Holt 01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk Burnham Grapevine, Burnham Market 01328 730125 www.burnhamgrapevine.co.uk Fairfax Gallery, Burnham Market 01328 730001 www.fairfaxgallery.com Gallery Plus, Wells-next-the-Sea 01328 711609 www.gallery-plus.co.uk Great Walsingham Gallery & Framing, Great Walsingham Barns, Great Walsingham 01328 820900 www.walsinghamgallery.co.uk Pinkfoot Gallery, Cley 01263 740947 www.pinkfootgallery.co.uk Pocock’s the artmonger, Burnham Market 01328 730370 www.theartmonger.co.uk Quay Art, Blakeney 01263 740013, Wells 01328 710905 Sarah Caswell, Great Walsingham Barns, Great Walsingham 07747 613395 www.sarahcaswell.co.uk The Flint Gallery, Blakeney 01263 741791 theflintgallery.co.uk

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

CERAMICS • GLASS • SCULPTURE OIL PAINTINGS

•

WATERCOLOURS

•

MIXED MEDIA

•

Proud to offer the Own Art Scheme

Quay Art is a printmakers gallery showcasing original printmaking techniques including linocuts, etchings, collagraphs and woodcuts.

You will also find a striking selection of original contemporary coastal watercolours alongside ceramics, glass and sculpture, all inspired by coast and countryside.

The Flint Gallery of contemporary fine art showcases a wide variety of work created by established and emerging artists, all in response to the inspirational combination of countryside and coast.

Located at the end of The Quay in the picturesque village of Blakeney on the North Norfolk Coast, the gallery offers a friendly and welcoming environment in which to enjoy the finest contemporary art including paintings, wildlife sculpture, glass and ceramics.

4 The Granary High Street Blakeney Norfolk NR25 7AL

2 Quayside The Quay Wells Norfolk NR23 1AR

T: 01263 740013

T: 01328 710905

ETCHINGS • LINOCUTS • COLLAGRAPHS • WOODCUTS • WATERCOLOURS • GLASS • CERAMICS • SCULPTURE

CONTEMPORARY FINE ART

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18

Fashion

Accessorize all areas Becksöndergaard Bisma shoulder bag £70, Nelle-dk

Be bold, be bright and get clash happy! Add a pop of colour and shimmer your way through spring with fashion editor Katy Coe’s accessories picks from local shops and boutiques Ring £209, Urban Armour Disco Diva silver and acrylic earrings £70 by Abbie Herculson, from Norfolk by Design’s pop-up shop at Houghton Hall and Nomad & the bowerbird

SPRING BLING! Superga 2750 Pai rose gold sequin sneakers £57, Collen & Clare

Roisin bracelet £20, Tilley & Grace

I’m loving a bit of daytime dazzle this season Custommade Roberta Girl on Fire sneakers £175, Collen & Clare

Blue statement earrings £189, Urban Armour

Bracelet £59 and necklace £119, both Rocks N’ Rubies

Coloured drop earrings £99, Urban Armour

Philippa Kunisch earrings £80, Collen & Clare Becksöndergaard Paradis shoulder bag/ clutch £59, Nelle-dk

Hester necklace in gold or silver £20, Tilley & Grace

Aisha earrings £15, Tilley & Grace

Woden Pearl sneakers £99.95, Nelle-dk NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Fashion Clutch £24.99, Barefoot Living

Frenchy zipped coin purses £32 each, The Tannery

Soft B red and parchment scarf £19.95, Gun Hill

CHASE THE RAINBOW Add some zing to your spring! I’m loving a pink, red and orange combo this season #Ihavethisthingwithorange

Becksöndergaard Fine Summer Star scarf £22, Nelle-dk Nice Things frame wallet £33, Nomad & the bowerbird

Pom Amsterdam Tropical Parrot Pink scarf £79, Anna

Seasalt handyband £12.95, Christopher William Coastal

Dove leather wallet available in a clutch of gorgeous colours £15, Tilley & Grace Nice Things Aloha print scarf £41, Nomad & the bowerbird

Hand-woven lattice beach bag £75, Bombay Sprout

Yerse multicoloured bag £75, Anna

MyWalit leather mini organiser bag £120, The Tannery

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

Anna burnt orange leather handbag £109, The Tannery

Country and Shooting Clothing, Accessories and Gifts for all.

@christopherwilliam_norfolk Open from 10am to 5pmTIMES: Monday - Saturday OPENING 10am to 4pm Sunday MONDAY TO SATURDAY 10AM TO-5PM, SUNDAY 10AM TO 4PM AIGLE | ALAN | BARBOUR | DUBARRY || FAIRFAX FAVOR | GURTEEN | HARKILA AIGLE | ALAN PAINE | BARBOUR | DUBARRY |&GURTEEN |& LEFAVOR CHAMEAU AIGLE |PAINE ALAN PAINE | BARBOUR DUBARRY | FAIRFAX MUSTO | PÁRAMO | SCHÖFFEL | SEALSKINZ | SEELAND | TOGGI | LAKSEN MAGEE | MUSTO | SCHÖFFEL || SEALSKINZ SEELAND || SEELAND TOGGI GURTEEN | HARKILA | PÁRAMO SCHÖFFEL ||SEALSKINZ | TOGGI

Creake Abbey, North Creake, Fakenham. NR21 9LF Telephone: 01328 738983 www.christopherwilliamcountry.co.uk

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Fine Leather To Give And To Hold

Handbags | Briefcases | Satchel Bags Luggage | Shoes | Wallets | Belts | Gloves

Aigle Aigle Barbour Barbour Dubarry Dubarry Henri Henri Lloyd Lloyd Lazy Jacks Lazy Jacks Musto Musto Páramo Aigle Páramo Barbour Seasalt Seasalt Dubarry Sealskinz Sealskinz Henri Lloyd Lazy Jacks and more…! and more…!

Seasalt Sealskinz Schöffel Opening Times: Opening Times: and more…!

Monday to Saturday

Monday to Saturday 10am to Opening Times: 10am to 5pm 5pm Sunday to Monday10am to Saturday Sunday 10am to 4pm 4pm10am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

@christopherwilliam_norfolk

01328 01328 710496 710496 -- www.christopherwilliamcountry.co.uk www.christopherwilliamcountry.co.uk 55 55 Staithe Staithe Street, Street, Wells-next-the-Sea Wells-next-the-Sea

Brands: The Tannery | Bric’s | The Bridge | Texier Leonhard Heyden | Crockett & Jones | Pittards Millican | Picard | Berwick | Fossil | Mywalit Orla Kiely | Tusting

4-6 & 29 Bull Street | Holt | NR25 6HP e: info@thetannery.co.uk t: 01263 713642

WWW.THETANNERY.CO.UK

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Fashion Delilah lip gloss in Siren £22, Collen & Clare

Toolally acrylic and gold plate on sterling silver earrings £40, Mine Leather popper purse £12, Nomad & the bowerbird

IT’S IN THE BAG Pack your bag till it’s full to bursting with colour Seasalt Pretty printed scarf £29.95, Christopher William Coastal Butterfly key fob £11, Nomad & the bowerbird

Set of three pens £1.50, Pentney House

Specs appeal Nice Things yellow cross strap bag £69, Nomad & the bowerbird Italian leather glasses case £24, The Tannery Izipizi pink reading glasses £35, Anna

Cacti make-up bag £12, Relish

Candy pink leather glasses case £15, Tilley & Grace

Izipizi red foldable reading glasses £39, Anna

A5 notebook £10, Relish

STOCKISTS: Anna, Burnham Market 01328 730325 www.shopatanna.com; Barefoot Living, Burnham Market 01328 738100 www.barefoot-living.co.uk; Bombay Sprout, Field Dalling showroom open by appointment, 07980 655570 www.bombaysprout.com; Christopher William Coastal, Wells-next-the-Sea 01328 710496 www.christopherwilliamcountry.co.uk; Collen & Clare, Burnham Market 01328 730558 www.collenandclare.com; Gun Hill, Burnham Market 01328 730015 www.gunhill.co.uk.; Mine, Wells-next-the-Sea 01328 711621 www.minejewellery.co.uk; Nelle-dk, Drove Orchards, Thornham 01485 525164 www.nelle-dk.co.uk; Nomad & the bowerbird, Holkham 01328 713093, Wells-next-the-Sea 01328 712282 www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk; Norfolk by Design pop-up shop at Houghton Hall, www.norfolk-by-design.com; Pentney House, Burnham Market 01328 738267; Relish, Burnham Deepdale, 01485 211211 www.relishonline.com; Rocks N’ Rubies, Heacham 01485 579352; The Tannery, Holt 01263 713642 www.thetannery.co.uk; Tilley & Grace, Holt 01263 710201 www.tilleyandgrace.co.uk; Urban Armour, Burnham Market 01328 738880 www.urbanarmour.co.uk

You can follow Katy on Instagram @vintagedeli NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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SUPER LITTLE JACKETS TO TRANSITION INTO SPRING Join us for a Fashion Afternoon Tea on Saturday 24th March at The King’s Head, Bircham.

Contact us for tickets, £20 in aid of UNICEF.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

t: 01553 631915 Open: Monday to Saturday 10am – 4.30pm w: www.allezchic.co.uk e: cheryldaubney@allezchic.co.uk FIND US: The Old School, Castle Rising, King’s Lynn, PE31 6AG

BRA FITTING SERVICE Anita | Chantelle | Cyberjammies | DKNY Empreinte | Hanro | Lejaby | Luna di Seta Marie Jo | Marjolaine | Miraclesuit Moontide | Panache | Prima Donna

2a Shirehall Plain, Holt Norfolk NR25 6HT t: 01263 714011 e: info@pollardandread.co.uk

www.pollardandread.co.uk 24

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

A REAL ONE OFF! This year the Urban Armour team are celebrating their 15th year in Burnham Market. As well as reflecting on the past, they’re embracing the changing trends in the world of jewellery with open arms.

W

alk into Urban Armour, and you’ll be dazzled by a treasure trove of well-known jewellery brands, watches, on-trend signet rings and sunglasses. But that’s not the whole story.

Urban Armour now also offers a personalised bespoke jewellery modelling service, working with customers to create one-off rings, necklaces, bracelets and more.

large collection of fine gold and precious stones and branching out to watches and sunglasses,” says Charles.

“We’ve also seen a large upsurge of interest in our bespoke modelling service and signet rings over the past few years and the demand for bespoke, handmade fine jewellery is on the increase. In fact, our bespoke modelling service Bespoke pieces are a massive trend in jewellery at allowed us to have our best ever year in 2017. the moment, says Urban Armour’s owner, Charles “Whether you want a unique piece of jewellery Bourn, and customers are often surprised by how designed and made from scratch, or to reuse gold and stones from unworn jewellery, our goldsmith reasonable the costs are. can incorporate your ideas to create something “The market has changed dramatically over the especially for you which is completely individual.” last 15 years, and we are adapting. We’ve gone Signet rings are also big news and are having from specialising in mainly contemporary and fashionable sterling silver to now holding a something of a renaissance. “They are no longer

Urban Armour 1-2 advertorial NNL Spring 2018_4.indd 1

just the traditional family heirloom, but now also make a stunning fashion statement piece.

We use the finest gold and hand engravers to create personalised designs.”

This pride in a bespoke, personal service is shared with local curtain-maker BB Textiles (Charles’ wife Brygida Bourn), whose new showroom at Urban Armour is packed with beautiful fabric samples and fittings customers can browse through. Like Urban Armour in jewellery, BB Textiles works closely with clients to create curtains, blinds and soft furnishings tailored just for them.

ham Market Urban Armour, Burn 01328 738880 o.uk www.urbanarmour.c 4327 BB Textiles 07765 93

04/03/2018 11:35

We now stock Matrix Biolage R.A.W, natural origin haircare products for all hair types

No sulfates, silicones, parabéns or artificial colourants Refillable bottles Better hair, cleaner planet 2 W H I T E L I O N S T R E E T I H O LT I N R 2 4 6 B A

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We are pleased to welcome Keely to our team as a therapist at Beauty at The Old School House OLD SCHOOL ROOMS, 80 OLD HUNSTANTON ROAD, HUNSTANTON, NORFOLK. PE36 6HX THEOLDSCHOOLHOUSE.HAIRCOMPANY@YAHOO.CO.UK WWW.THEOLDSCHOOLHOUSEHAIRCOMPANY.CO.UK

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Beauty & Wellbeing

The boom in

male grooming S

With the balance of product power gradually shifting in her bathroom cabinet (not in her favour), Harriet Cooper investigates why the art of male maintenance is undergoing a bit of a makeover

THE GROOMING ESSENTIALS AGUA DE COLONIA CONCENTRADA BARBERIA FACIAL MOISTURIZER PLUS This two-in-one facial moisturiser and aftershave is non-greasy and easily absorbed. £24.

Joyful Living, Drove Orchards 01485 525714 www.joyfulliving.co.uk

TEP aside from the bathroom mirror ladies, it’s the men’s turn. Barbershops are booming, spas are devoting increasing menu space to the opposite sex, and many cosmetic companies have their own lines of male-specific toiletries. Indeed, reports suggest that the male business of grooming will be worth £45billion by 2020.

“Men are definitely more aware of their appearance. They’re coming in for more regular haircuts, trying different styles and products,” says James Davies, resident barber at The Old School House Hair Company in Old Hunstanton. “The influence of male style icons, who share their skin and hair regimes in the media, has seen men taking an interest in their looks.”

Male-specific treatments, including massages and manicures, are popping up at many a spa. “Men lead busy lives and deserve to relax. I think they basically want a bit of the ‘grooming’ us women have been enjoying,” says Bec Newstead of The Retreat in Docking, which offers men’s treatments including the Elemis High Performance Skin Energiser facial (£65 for an hour).

Moisturiser is no longer a dirty word it would seem. “The stigma is disappearing as a younger generation use hair and skincare products as part of their daily routine. This has been made easier by the boom in male products,” continues James, whose salon plans to introduce Yon-Ka facials for men from April. Fellows, form an orderly queue…

The Old School House Hair Company, Old Hunstanton 01485 535376 www.theoldschoolhousehaircompany.co.uk The Retreat, Docking 01485 518729 www.retreat-spa.co.uk

SWAGGER & JACKS CLASSIC BEARD BALM The Norwich barbershop’s classic beard balm nourishes, repairs and tames longer bristles. £15.95.

Bakers & Larners, Holt 01263 712244 www.bakersandlarners.co.uk

Q My beautiful life

Simon Barclay is Managing Director of Kett Country Cottages What exercise do you like to do?

Running is my thing, four times a week usually.

How important is keeping fit to you?

Very. It’s basically a habit I’ve had since school. It keeps me well - I had my first sick day off work recently in 33 years.

How do you keep motivated?

I pick a different event to aim for. Last year, it was the London Marathon; this year I’m going to run (stagger) 100 miles up the Thames in 24 hours.

How do you unwind after a busy week?

After my run, I love sitting in my beach hut at Cromer listening to the football. There are no distractions and the result is always good.

What makes you happy?

Lots, but watching my children playing sport can’t be beaten.

Kett Country Cottages, Fakenham 01328 856853 www.kettcountrycottages.co.uk

ELEMIS ICE-COOL FOAMING SHAVE GEL Scientifically formulated to mould to the face for a clean, close shave, leaving skin nourished. £23.

The Retreat, Docking 01485 518729 www.retreat-spa.co.uk

NOBLE ISLE WHISKY & WATER HAND LOTION Contains skin-calming extract of Scottish malted barley and it smells of oak-aged single malt. £20. Handwash £18.

Collen & Clare, Burnham Market 01328 730558 www.collenandclare.com THE BLUEBEARDS REVENGE PRE-SHAVE OIL Ensures a smoother and less irritating shave ideal for heavy beards and sensitive skin. £9.99.

The Old School House Hair Company, Old Hunstanton 01485 535376 www.theoldschoolhousehaircompany.co.uk

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Beauty & Wellbeing

Supercharge

your spring After a long, dark winter, you probably feel in need of a pick-meup. Here’s how to get the feelgood factor this springtime, says Harriet Cooper

EMBRACE THE GREAT OUTDOORS With the sunshine finally putting in an appearance and the North Norfolk countryside beckoning, it’s time to dust down your trainers or walking boots and head outside. “With the lighter, longer days, Gini there is no better time Harrison to ignite your fitness regime,” says Gini Harrison, a yoga teacher and fitness instructor, who has been taking weekly Power and Nordic Walking sessions along the coast for more than 15 years.

Even the most gentle of aerobic exercise will get the heart pumping and the blood flowing, while moderate sunlight will give you a much-needed Vitamin D fix. Psychologically, too, a little outdoors action will lift your mood.

“It is now recognised that just ten minutes of brisk walking a day can have many health benefits, including lowering the risks of heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, cancer and depression, and with minimum impact on the joints it is suitable for all ages,” continues Gini. “It is never too late to explore the great outdoors. It will clear the mind and put a glow on your face.”

Gini Harrison, 07917 350080 www.giniharrison.co.uk

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

CHANGE UP YOUR DIET

Arabella Hambro

© www.pebblesphotography.co.uk

When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of pasta or stew. But in warmer weather, our appetite wanes as we start to metabolise the winter fat stored in our bodies. So when better to trade in the heavy foods for salads, soups and veggies?

“As spring approaches, nourish yourself with colourful bowls of nutrient-dense salad leaves and vegetables,” says North Norfolk based nutritional therapist Arabella Hambro. “Think orange for beta-carotene, purple for the powerful antioxidant anthocyanin, red for the antioxidant lycopene and green for magnesium and folate. Adding colour is essential to feed our gut microbiome, the good guys which keep us healthy.”

Fruit and veg will also do a marvellous job at replenishing vitamins and minerals, which may have depleted after winter lurgies. “Look out for wild garlic, which has antibacterial properties,” continues Arabella. “Watercress is full of phytonutrients and great for sluggish livers. Radishes, purple sprouting broccoli and spring greens are rich in Vitamin C, while rhubarb is packed full of Vitamin K for healthy bones and asparagus is great for Vitamin B1, which is involved in energy production.”

For those who are fussy about eating their greens, adding fruits and vegetables into smoothies is a great way of increasing your daily intake (top tip: when blended, blueberries hide greens such as spinach).

Arabella Hambro, 020 3637 7181 (clinic bookings) arabellahambro@naturedoc.co.uk

IMPROVE YOUR STATE OF MIND Kicking off the season with a healthy mind should also be high on our agenda. “I love the spring, it’s a time of new beginnings, helping us remember there is a natural cycle to life, that nothing stays the same, it’s always evolving and renewing,” says Marie Isaac, yoga and meditation teacher at Wellbeing by the Sea. Marie Isaac “It is a great time to sit and look within, to become clear about what you’re wishing to bring forth to your life; setting an intention around this helps to maintain energy and focus,” she continues. Meditation is a great way to do this. “Meditation is one of the highest forms of self-care; it helps us to relax, re-calibrate and energise our body and mind.”

Seize the opportunity to start exercising your brain, too, to improve memory, focus and mood.

Stay connected and socialise regularly to keep the mind sharp. Try new things, whether it is doing a puzzle or keeping a diary (writing boosts brain power as it allows us to train our minds to think better); while aerobic activity will get blood flow to the little grey cells and Express mani and pedi bar The Hut, in Holt, has improve cognitive function. now added a blow-dry bar to its repertoire. For Marie Isaac, Wellbeing by the Sea 07913 £50 you can treat yourself to OPI gel overlays 187251 www.wellbeingbythesea.com

Beauty news NAIL IT

Three ways to get up and go Sign up with Blakeney Fitness who offer regular Power and Nordic Walking classes, as well as fitness training, at Three Owls Farm in the village. Subscribe for £35 per month and join a class as often as you like, or pay as you go for £8.50 an hour. Hand weights and poles provided. Call 07713 153124 or visit www.threeowlsfarm.co.uk.

East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) is encouraging cyclists to get in the saddle for the epic Ride for Life. Starting on 20 July, cyclists will cover 200-plus miles in three days, visiting the trio of EACH hospices in the region. It costs £150 to take part and each participant must raise a minimum of £400 sponsorship. A one day package is also available. To book your place, visit www.each.org.uk/rideforlife or contact Emma on 01953 666770.

Norfolketc © Tim Platt

There’s nothing like a bit of sea air to blow away the cobwebs. Morston-based RYA sailing and powerboating centre Norfolketc, which opens for the season in April, offers private tuition and charters, as well as two and three-day sailing and powerboat courses - suitable for everyone, including children. To book, call 01263 740 704 or visit www.norfolketc.co.uk

CHALLENGE YOURSELF Spring is a time of rebirth and rejuvenation, and therefore the ideal opportunity to try something new. “Now is a great time to challenge yourself to that next level, regardless of where your Rachael starting point Curnow might be,” says Rachael Curnow, Rehabilitation Specialist at Creative Chiropractic @ Pensthorpe. “It could be the step up from walking to jogging a Park Run, joining that dance class you’ve had your eye on, or injecting extra pace into a dog walk.”

You’ll reap the benefits. “Exercise is important as it produces endorphins, the body’s natural morphine-based chemicals, which give us that ‘fit hit’,” continues Rachael. “It boosts energy levels and increases serotonin in the brain, leading to improved mental clarity. And although exercise won’t make stress disappear, it helps with feelings of emotional intensity, allowing us to deal with situations more calmly.

As an added bonus, it has been clinically proven that setting ourselves goals builds our confidence, which in turn, helps us deal with the intricacies of our everyday lives.”

Ready for a challenge? The key thing, Rachael says, is to remember the acronym KISS - Keep It Simple & Straightforward. “You have a much better chance of achieving and sustaining the activity. Finding something you enjoy and which challenges you enough to be motivational and not a chore is vital.”

Creative Chiropractic @ Pensthorpe, 01328 854325 www.creativechiropractic.co.uk

while also having either a dry velcro set for added volume or a blow dry. What’s not to love?

The Hut, Holt 01263 713832 thehutholt@gmail.com

A THING OF BEAUTY

2018 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Beauty-next-the-Sea. Following a recent expansion, the Wells-based salon now has three treatment rooms, plus a nail bar, express treatment area, Flabélos machine and sun bed room. They’ll also be adding more treatments to their menu this spring. Watch this space.

Beauty-next-the-Sea, Wells 01328 710446 www.beautynextthesea.co.uk

ON THE SCENT

Stand by scent lovers: Collen & Clare are stocking Caudalie’s latest addition to its fresh fragrance range, Eau des Vignes. Not only is the packaging pretty as a picture but it is fresh and delicate, designed to evoke thoughts of vineyards in the sunshine, with notes of bergamot, iris and musk. £26.

Collen & Clare, Burnham Market 01328 730558 www.collenandclare.com

BEST FOOT FORWARD

Give your tootsies a treat with a pedi at The Hoste Beauty Spa, which now uses a new range of products from Footlogix, a foot-care line which has been scientificallyformulated with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients and unique groundbreaking Dermal Infusion Technology.

The Hoste Beauty Spa, Burnham Market 01328 738777 www.thehoste.com You can follow Harriet on Instagram @girlnextthesea

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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NORFOLK DECORATIVE ANTIQUES S P EC I A L I S TS

I N

A N T I Q U E

Antique Chandeliers

Antique Lanterns

Antique Wall Lights

Mirror Gallery

L I G H T I N G

&

R E S TO R AT I O N

Tables

Floor Lamps

Table Lamps

Outdoor Lighting & Industrial

Norfolk Decorative Antiques I Units 8D and 8E Millers Close I Fakenham Industrial Estate I Fakenham I NR21 8NW 01328 856333 I 07818876778 I mail@ndalighting.com I Instagram @norfolkdecorative

www.antiquelighting.co.uk

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Living

r e d i s n The I ws from the home front Standby for the latest ne

The purple reign

AND YOUR POOCH CAN GET IN ON THE ACT TOO! Ruff and Tumble’s colour collection includes this lovely shade called heather, available as double thickness cotton towelling drying mitts £18 and this double thickness cotton towelling dog drying coat which comes in 12 sizes, from £26 to £59. Prices exclude postage and packing.

Why not add a patch of purple to your home this season?

After all, ultra violet is Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2018!

Right: RELAX IN: this B&B Italia chair in fine grade leather, designed by Antonio Citterio. Light vintage wear, DECORATE WITH: Clarke & Clarke’s Pavone Amethyst fabric £42 £800 each (a pair is available), per metre, The Old Stores Laking Art Below: ACCESSORIZE WITH: this parrot on linen cushion £45, The Red Dot Gallery

The inside track

What?

Norfolk Decorative Antiques Who? Jill and Maurice Perry met in 1992 and ran an interior design practice for five years in London and East Anglia, which had Beaded Italian cut glass chandelier, an accent Norfolk Decorative Antiques on lighting because of Maurice’s electrical qualifications.

When the couple moved to North Norfolk, they began to sell antique lighting alongside their interiors business.

What will I find?

Expect to see a treasure trove of beautiful antique and mid-century chandeliers, wall and table lights, lanterns, floor lamps and outside lighting, plus small tables and mirrors. The stock is constantly changing, which involves a lot of European buying trips! The business is run from two warehouses in Fakenham which also house a workshop and there’s a great online shop too.

And what else?

Restoration of antique lighting for private clients is also a large part of the business, using local restorers and artisans to complement Maurice’s restoration skills.

Keep in touch Check out their online shop at www. antiquelighting.co.uk, visit their warehouses at Units 8D and 8E Millers Close, Fakenham Industrial Estate, call on 01328 856333 or follow Jill on Instagram @norfolkdecorative

STOCKISTS Laking Art, Holt 01263 711911; Ruff and Tumble, 03332 079960 www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com; The Old Stores, Roydon 01485 600591 www.theoldstoresroydon.co.uk; The Red Dot Gallery, Holt 01263 710287 www.thereddotgallery.com

Window dressing I have a serious case of curtain envy! These pretty drapes were made for a little girl’s bedroom by Brygida Bourn of BB Textiles using Barneby Gates’ All Star fabric, and I can’t help thinking they’ll be a favourite for years.

Brygida started her curtain-making business three years ago and opened a studio at Urban Armour in Burnham Market last year, showcasing fabrics, including North Norfolk based Nicole Fabre’s collection, and fittings.

“I’ve always loved sewing and had a needle in my hand from being a very small child,’ says Brygida. Now alongside her bespoke curtainmaking service, she also makes blinds and soft furnishings, taking on small or large commissions.

BB Textiles, 07765 934327 or 01328 738880 at Urban Armour

Home improvement

With a decade of experience under her belt, Sophie Allsopp decided to turn her passion into a business, launching Sophie & Boo Property and Interiors, last autumn.

“I have always loved interiors and property design. I started buying and renovating properties to sell 10 years ago and have done projects ranging from farmhouses to modern beach houses,” says Sophie. “A friend asked me why I wasn’t doing this for other people and I decided to launch Sophie & Boo Property and Interiors.

“Our aim is to create your dream property, whether it is a one-off advice session, a new interior design scheme, furnishing your property, preparing your home for sale, sourcing a property or complete remodelling, I offer a very personal approach and want to help people have a beautiful home.

“With my years of experience, I have built up a large address book of trusted craftspeople and tradesmen I can call on.”

Sophie & Boo Property and Interiors, 07813 177330 www.sophieandboo.co.uk NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

31

Living

MAKING A STATEMENT

Give your shelves the wow factor by decorating behind them with a bold wallpaper, as Janie has done at their latest Thornham cottage, using Cole & Son’s Acquario paper from their Fornasetti II collection.

Going all out

Add a quick pop of colour and texture with a bright Irish mohair throw, £120 each from a selection at Laking Art.

Make way for maximalism! Amanda Loose gets the lowdown on decorating to the max, one of this season’s biggest trends, from our panel of interiors experts

T

HINK strong colours, large scale patterns, clashing, colour blocking, luxe materials and bold monochrome and geometric schemes. We’re talking exotic prints, marvellous metals and velvets, as the interiors volume is turned up to loud and almost anything goes.

Above: From Harlequin’s new Zapara collection. Wallpaper Bavero 111765 £58 per roll; day bed Folia velvet 130422 £62 per metre; cushions left to right Folia velvet 130395, 130396, 130422, 130400, 130402. Stocked by Burnham Interiors and The Old Stores

Nanci Gillett, interior designer, Burnham Interiors This season we’re seeing deep vibrant, sumptuous colours, big scale prints and wallpapers inspired by global influences, velvets and embroidery all in one collection from the fabric houses. They’re showing us something else we can do, nothing’s right or wrong. I think people want a bit of colour again.

It’s not just clashing patterns either. People are colour blocking and using metals - it can be one colour with metals and no pattern – pink is still trending and black is huge.

Good design is all about layering textures, colours and materials. You can have one bold flash or lots of colour, and layer on as much and be as crazy as you want.

TOP TIP:

You should enjoy your home, it should make you smile. A bit of colour, a bit of bold, there’s nothing better to put a smile on your face!

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

Use an amazing rug as a bold statement, and build your scheme around it suggests Nanci. We love this Starburst dhurrie rug in pink and gold, £275 from Bombay Sprout.

Amazon wallpaper in navy and Kruger wallpaper in flame both £49 per roll, from Clarke & Clarke’s new Animalia collection, available from The Old Stores

Janie Thompson, Thornham Deli Interior Styling This season is all about the use of strong vibrant colours and clashing textures and designs. We have decorated our latest Thornham cottage in stunning Cole & Son wallpapers with huge all over designs and then complemented these with rich dark velvet coloured chairs with a twist of hessian (see making a statement above).

Velvet is very in again this season and works well with strong wallcoverings - don’t be frightened to go all out there with the wallcovering as you can complement it with neutral furnishings but again, be bold and use strong fabrics that have texture, like velvet and wide weave linen.

TOP TIP:

You need to have courage to use some of the latest trends in wallpaper so be brave, create a mood board and go for it!

Tom Clarke, The Old Stores, Roydon

A COSY OF CUSHIONS Get the look in almost an instant by adding some bright cushions to the mix. Here are just a few of our favourites!

This season sees yet more bold pattern and bright colour in interiors.

In the last 12 months the tropical look has proved popular and this year sees the addition of bugs and butterflies, exotic plants and wildlife.

A

TOP TIP:

Bombay Duck apple cushion £35, Thornham Deli

A

Clarke & Clarke’s latest collections include Animalia (pictured), with stunning designs by artist Emma J Shipley with a series of coordinating fabric and wallpaper, using rich velvets, satins and a touch of shimmer too!

Animalia features tropical parrots, lemurs, tigers and hand-drawn giraffes.

From Osborne & Little’s new Manarola collection. Wallpaper Vernazza W7217-01 £75 per roll; chair Velatura F7183-03 £135 per metre; cushion Bangor F7091-09 £41 per metre all by Osborne & Little, stockist number 0208 8123123 www.osborneandlittle.com. Also stocked by Burnham Interiors

Elizabeth Stanhope, interior designer

Spring/ summer is the ideal time to inject colour into your interiors. This season we have introduced plain and geometric designs in bright shades of yellow, pink, green and blue which can mix and match together or work independently. Our Khand cushions (pictured right) reflect this colour block trend with bold panels in vibrant colour combinations.

This season has a new expression in colour, and Designers Guild’s latest spring/summer collection is the place to find this new language of colour, with its wonderful soft shades of warm and sun-drenched terracotta, shell and papaya tones.

These glorious patterns, burgeoning blossoms and vivid watercolours are perfect for the most beautiful curtains, blinds and cushions. (Pictured Veronnet fabric from Designers Guild’s new Giardino Segreto collection).

TOP TIP:

We have embraced the colour block trend by dressing dining tables in entirely one shade to create a bold and dynamic statement. To get the look at home style your table with a runner, placemats, napkins and glassware in a single bright tone and accessorise with votives and hurricanes in corresponding colours.

Tracey Grint and Pawnee Dekeyser, Moochi Modo Interior Design

Cactus silk Moroccan cushion, also available in pink, yellow, turquoise and grey £49, Joyful Living

TOP TIP:

Before visiting our showroom for help and advice, we’re very happy for you to email images of your project to showroom@ elizabethstanhope.co.uk and we’ll gather ideas and inspiration in preparation for your visit.

Having visited Paris for the biannual trade show, it’s lovely to see how the trend for brass, bronze, copper and black nickel finishes is flourishing. Brass or copper mixed with rich velvets such as inky blue and forest green will give a sumptuous feel to any room. Gold is back for all of us that love the warmth and sophistication this brings.

TOP TIP:

If you want a pop of colour, why not try a golden ochre armchair as a statement piece?

Have fun with your interiors.

A

Robert Gillmor design cushions from £29.95, The Barn at Artemis

A

Birdie Fortescue, interior designer

Love and War cushion, available in a variety of colourways £65, Bombay Sprout

From B&B Italia’s Maxalto collection, available from Moochi Modo

A Khand cushion £55, Birdie Fortescue ADDRESS BOOK Birdie Fortescue, Burnham Market 01328 738634 www.birdiefortescue.co.uk; Bombay Sprout, Field Dalling showroom open by appointment, 07980 655570 www.bombaysprout.com; Burnham Interiors, Burnham Market 01328 730989 www.burnhaminteriors.co.uk; Elizabeth Stanhope, Oakham 01572 722345 www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk; Joyful Living, Drove Orchards, Thornham 01485 525714 www.joyfulliving.co.uk; Laking Art, Holt 01263 711911; Moochi Modo, Holt 01263 711180 www.moochimodo.com; The Barn at Artemis, Cley 01263 741674 www.thebarnatartemis.co.uk; The Old Stores, Roydon 01485 600591 www.theoldstoresroydon.co.uk; Thornham Deli Interior Styling, Thornham 01485 512194 www.thornhamdeli.co.uk NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

33

Metallic bath by Hurlingham Bath Company, available from Arcadia Home Interiors, 01328 807063 www.arcadiahomeinteriors.co.uk

PRETTY UP YOUR BATHROOM IT’S A WRAP

A

A

This Cyberjammies robe is perfect for post-bath cosiness. £30.

Pollard & Read, Holt 01263 714011 www.pollardandread.co.uk

BASKET C ASE

Beautify your bathroom with this white-dipped belly basket from Marshes & Flint, which comes in large £35, or medium £29.

Marshes & Flint, www.marshesandflint.co.uk

HEAVEN SCENT

A

Not only do the Go Be Lovely soaps smell divine (we love Grapefruit Oleander), but they look so pretty you won’t want to unwrap them. £11.

Nomad & the bowerbird, Wells-next-the-Sea 01328 712282 www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk

Making a splash

SUPER SOAKER

A

Living

Abahna’s White Grapefruit & May Chang Bath Foam is made using organic aloe vera and is refreshingly uplifting with zesty citrus tones. £25.

The Barn at Artemis, Cley 01263 741674 www.thebarnatartemis.co.uk

Think outside the box

Space is often at a premium in the bathroom, but there are tricks for making the room appear larger. “Be smart with your design and consider using products with curves to give you a bit more space,” advises Aaron Buckie, Company Partner at Norfolk Bespoke Bathrooms. “Create recesses where possible - they’re great for storage and give the impression of a bigger room.” Finally, wall-hung products such as basins and toilets can keep the lines of tiles unbroken, helping to create a perception of space in the room.

Don’t be afraid to experiment - adding bright pops of colour is great way to jazz up this functional space. “We have been avoiding colour in the bathroom for a long time, but it has been creeping back into designs,” says Nanci Gillett of Burnham Interiors. And it’s not just colour making a comeback. According to Nanci, we’re now using interesting textures like terracotta tiles and wood accents. “A bathroom is a place to relax, so this move towards the warm and textured, away from the cold and clinical, is more than welcome,” she says.

Go for spa appeal

Add a little bling

In our fast-paced, wired-up world we often need a sanctuary where we can unwind, hence the trend for the spa-style bathroom (Pinterest recently reported a 269 per cent increase in ‘spa bathroom’). It doesn’t take much to create your small oasis of calm. First off, choose a neutral colour scheme to bring light and calm to the space. Opt for dimmer switches for ambient lighting and declutter to make the space more zen.

Get the wow factor by installing a statement piece in your bathroom. Mirrors not only open up a small space and capture the natural light, but they can be eye-catching, too. Another way to give your bathroom a luxurious lift is installing a feature bath - Aaron suggests choosing either a freestanding roll-top or a castiron slipper bath. Just sink back in the bubbles and enjoy.

Norfolk Bespoke Bathrooms, Fakenham 07787 108026 www.norfolkbespokebathrooms.co.uk Burnham Interiors, Burnham Market 01328 730989 www.burnhaminteriors.co.uk

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

GOOD CLEAN FUN

If you haven’t tried the Spongellé, a body wash-infused buffer, you should. The sponge is exfoliating and the gentle cleanser will leave you glowing. £11.95.

The Retreat, Docking 01485 518729 www.retreat-spa.co.uk

A

Use every inch of space

A

Harriet Cooper discovers how to create the perfect bathing spot

LEADIN G LIGHT

No bathroom is complete without a scented candle and we’re rather taken by Stoneglow’s Ylang Ylang & Amber. £20.85.

Barefoot Living, Burnham Market 01328 738100 www.barefoot-living.co.uk

A

FANCY HAT!

Bath time just got retro with this rather fetching pink shower hat. £4.89.

Sands Pharmacy, Burnham Market 01328 738215

contemporary interior design

6 Old Stable Yard, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6BN 01263 711180 www.moochimodo.com Design studio by appointment: 1 Church Farm Barns, Heydon, Norfolk, NR11 6AD

LAKING ART

A carefully curated collection of ex-display contemporary/modern designer furniture from brands including: Andrew Martin, B&B Italia, Cassina and Flexform - Beaufort London and Czech & Speake fragrances - Irish Mohair soft furnishings

Follow us on instagram @christopherarthurgraham for all our news christophergraham94@gmail.com Laking Art, 6 Appleyard, Holt, NR25 6AR, 01263 711911 35

Interior Design Services I Property Consultancy I Renovation 07813 177330 I sophie@sophieandboo.co.uk I www.sophieandboo.co.uk I

@sophieandboo

www.theoldstoresroydon.co.uk

Tel: 01485 600 591 146 Lynn Road, Roydon PE32 1AQ 36

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT

NORFOLK HIDEAWAYS! With a record year in 2017 and an unprecedented start to 2018 with January and February sales far exceeding expectations, things are looking very bright for established holiday letting business, Norfolk Hideaways, as they open a brand-new satellite office in Burnham Market.

P

art of the Foundry Field retail site, the new Norfolk Hideaways office is situated directly opposite Socius restaurant, the latest new eatery to open in Burnham Market and right next to the village car park.

“We’re thrilled that we’ve secured brand new premises on the Foundry Field site in such a prominent location,” says Helen Millin, CEO. “We are planning to open the new office in time for Easter, when we will welcome over 3,400 guests to the county.”

The new office will be headed up by Emma Hunter Bloy (née Hunter Blair), who has worked in the holiday lettings sector for over 14 years. A well-known face in Burnham

Market, Emma is looking forward to bringing her vast experience and knowledge to her new role as Manager, Client Services, managing Norfolk Hideaways’ marketed and managed property portfolio.

“It was sad that we had to say goodbye to our Burnham Deepdale office, as it was where it all began, back in February 2009, when Norfolk Hideaways launched with just two properties on its books. But since then we’ve grown significantly and now market over 350 delightful hand-picked cottages right along the North Norfolk coast and inland too; from stunning luxury properties, big barn conversions, rural retreats, family-friendly

houses and dog-friendly cottages to cosy love nests for two,” says Helen.

“Our existing head office at the Big Blue Sky Building in Wells-next-the-Sea and satellite office in Staithe Street, in Wells-next-theSea will not be affected and will continue to support our guests and homeowners.

“The opening of our new Burnham Market office will only strengthen our presence in the area and provide further support and assistance to our guests and our valued home owners who are so intrinsic to our success,” says Helen.

• Norfolk Hideaways, 01485 211022 www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

37

To celebrate 20 years in business we are offering 20% discount* *Work to be completed by end of Aug 2018

Update and refurbish your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a replacement BEFORE SPRAY

AFTER SPRAY

A complete range of market leading colours available, including popular heritage and National Trust colours.

• Dulux Fellow – Awarded April 2013 • Dulux Select Decorator of the Year 2011 • Dulux Select Decorator of the Year Runner Up 2009/2010

Spray Kitchen Elite

01664 823 923 | 079033 24055 www.respraykitchen.co.uk Facebook: Spray Kitchen Elite

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Here are some of the benefits of a Leka Roof System…

Before

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Brought to you by...

Contact David Maynard to find out more – the only registered installer in the area!

01485 696098 | sales@lynnframe.co.uk | www.lynnframe.co.uk 38

Living

CUTTINGS

PICK A POT

Beautiful houseplants need statement pots

Green-fingered news and tips from our gardening writer Fiona Cumberpatch

The joy of houseplants Jo Griffiths, owner of Joyful Living is now stocking a range of houseplants. “My shop is all about wellness and lovely things, and houseplants fit in with that,” says Jo, who is concentrating on selling low maintenance, easy care plants.

“Everyone seems to be scared that they will kill a houseplant, but you really don’t need to be green-fingered to look after them. It’s just a matter of finding the right spot and giving it the basics: food, water and light.”

Jo is stocking ferns, palms, succulents and the retro favourite, Monstera or Swiss Cheese Plant, which last had a fashionable moment in the 1970s. “I suggest that people start with one plant, and just give it a try,” advises Jo. “My main tip for successful growing is not to overwater plants, as you can kill them with kindness, and don’t put them in a draught. Apart from that, it doesn’t have to be complicated. There really is no better moment than when you realise the plant has put out new green shoots!”

A Monstera or Swiss Cheese Plant, costs £12 for a 2 feet tall plant. A String of Pearls succulent is £15.

Joyful Living, Drove Orchards, Thornham, 01485 525714 www.joyfulliving.co.uk

Gardening for good health The body of research showing the health benefits of gardening is growing, and now Wells Community Hospital Trust and The Nurture Project have launched a new horticultural outreach programme supporting adults living with mild to moderate mental ill health.

The Nurture Project, based at the Wells Community Hospital Trust, offers supervised gardening to promote adult mental and physical wellbeing in a safe and friendly environment.

Carlyn Kilpatrick (pictured), founder and coordinator of The Nurture Project says: “Horticultural therapy is an innovative and creative approach to helping people living with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety or stress. The new programme will offer the opportunity of small group work in the beautiful gardens at Wells Community Hospital Trust.”

The pilot programme offers a variety of gardening experiences, as well as indoor horticultural activities. Gardening experience is not required. www.wellshospital.org.uk

Black polished cement adds simple style, £12 Go for texture in blue, £23

Opt for mid-century chic, small, £6, medium £8 and large, £14 (pictured)

All from Bringing the outside in, Holkham 01328 713093 and Wellsnext-the-Sea 01328 712282 www.bringing theoutsidein. co.uk

Try this!

What is it?

A garden willow workshop with Deb Hart. Learn to make a garden obelisk or a sculpture to personalise your outside space.

When?

7 April, 10am to 4pm.

What will I do?

You’ll be taught the traditional skills to create a willow object, with all tools and materials included in the day. Choose an obelisk, ideal for twining with sweetpeas, or a sculpture, to put in your borders to add interest.

Booking details The course costs £85, including a twocourse lunch and refreshments. Contact Norfolk Creative Arts, Grimston at www. norfolkcreativearts.co.uk, or email art@ norfolkcreativearts.co.uk

SEASONAL STUNNER Armeria Maritima (Thrift) What’s so good about it?

With its low hummocks of evergreen grassy leaves and pretty pink pom-pom headed flowers, it creates year-round interest, tolerates poor soil, and will attract plenty of bees and beneficial insects to your garden. It’s also ideal for coastal gardens.

How do I look after it?

It’s an easy care plant which is drought tolerant. Deadhead the flowers in the summer, and you will keep them coming for longer.

Ideal spot?

A rockery, and ideally a south or west facing aspect.

Where to buy?

This, and an extensive range of alpines, is available to buy from Burn Valley Nursery, South Creake, 01328 823333 www.burnvalleynursery.uk NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

39

Living

WITHIN THESE WALLS

New vineyards growing white and black grapes

Two stately homes in North Norfolk are bringing their walled gardens back to life with a modern take on the traditional role of these plant powerhouses. Armed with her camera, Fiona Cumberpatch went exploring last autumn, to find out more

Holkham Hall Head gardener Dene Wood describes the project to revive the walled gardens at Holkham Hall as “a renaissance rather than a restoration.” Apart from the handsome Victorian glasshouses which will be brought back to their former glory, the aim is to create an updated role for the area once designed solely to provide food and decoration for the landowners, their guests and staff.

“The old model is not viable now,” says Dene.

“We do grow food for the household (Holkham remains home to the Coke family). Any surplus is used at The Victoria Inn, and we provide flowers for the café, the house and the inn, but we also want to engage families and inspire a new generation to grow.”

The original kitchen gardens at Holkham were created by Thomas Coke in 1720, 12 years before he began the Hall. An inventory from 1748 lists figs, cherries, plums, nectarines, mulberries, quince and medlars growing there. His successor, Thomas William Coke, demolished the original site to make way for an extension to the lake, and replaced it at the end of the 18th century with the present walled gardens, designed by Samuel Wyatt. In their heyday, they were tended by a team of around 40 to 50.

Now there are two, aided by 55 volunteers.

“There are few large walled gardens now. At

40

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

over six acres, the sheer scale of the place is a challenge,” explains Dene. “We have the whole estate to look after, so it can’t be our sole focus, although it’s undoubtedly the most fun part of my job.”

The Walled Gardens kept the Hall fed until the 1950s, but declined after the two World Wars, as the labour force shrank. During the 1960s, the area was leased as a nursery, which remained until the 1990s. The current programme of repair began in 2010.

Visitors now arrive at a wrought iron gate, brought from Venice in 1908, and step into one of the seven sections, or ‘rooms’ of the gardens.

Borders of billowy perennials (6,500 in one room), annuals and exotic plants are framed by mellow brick walls. The impressive Victorian glasshouses draw the eye. It’s still a work in progress. The sunken greenhouses, created at a lower level to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, have yet to be renovated but are scheduled for improvement.

“The greenhouses look beautiful but are functional. The gardeners of the past had the science worked out precisely,” says Dene. “To control the temperature, everything was thought out, from the pitch of the glass to the venting.”

The vegetable garden looks like an allotment on steroids. “I’ve always been a veg guy,” smiles Dene, “so this is probably my favourite area.”

Visitors walk through a coppiced hazel wood arch, with gourds and runner beans hanging

Head gardener, Dene Wood

Blickling Estate It’s almost impossible to believe that as recently as 2014, the walled kitchen garden, 50 metres to the south of the stunning 17th century mansion at Blickling, was little more than a patch of bare grass. Walk in on an autumn morning in 2017, and you’ll find a very different story. Beautiful beds overflow with drifts of dahlias in hot reds, oranges, pinks, gold and yellow. There are dark pink sedums, clouds of catmint lining the neatly kept gravel and turf paths, and a selection of oblique cordoned fruit trees flanking weed-free vegetable patches yielding beetroot, squash, globe artichokes and runner beans. A theme garden The walled garden looking to the hall Autumn display

this,” he says. “We’ve rotavated the ground, laid 600 metres of metal edging and erected 80 metal poles to support the soft fruit, not to mention the propagating, weeding and general maintenance that takes place on a daily basis.”

Three elderly visitors approach Mike to congratulate him on the garden. “It’s comments like that which make working here so worthwhile,” he says. “It’s very satisfying.”

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blicklingestate for opening times and ticket prices.

Project manager, Mike Owers

Espaliered pear trees with a heavy crop of fruit for the hall and inn

from above. Trained pear trees date to the original Victorian plantings. Chickens peck in an enclosure with a tractor-shaped shed, one of many innovations designed to engage children.

Bee hives provide honey for sale in the estate shop. A large wooden building overlooking the vegetable plots, was built by volunteers using trees from the estate, and is the education centre. Simon Bosley, garden supervisor, organises the helpers. “There’s a great sense of camaraderie among our volunteers, and they have a huge range of skills. We might be the ones steering the car, but they are the engine,” he says.

New developments include a vineyard.

“Eventually we hope to produce our own estate wine,” says Dene. An area laid to lawn is dedicated to weddings, open air cinema and theatre and the popular food and plant fairs.

“We have many plans,” says Dene. “When I walk through, and see our volunteers with their t-shirts on, smiling and laughing, and see the community we have created, it is a good feeling to see how far we’ve already come.”

This year, Holkham’s Walled Garden is open from 25 March to 31 October.

Visit www.holkham.co.uk for opening times and ticket prices.

depicts the flag of India, with 600 annuals planted to create the pattern. Very little remains from the original gardens, which are thought to date back to the 1600s, yet the garden’s regeneration already feels timeless.

This is down to the efforts of project manager Mike Owers and his team. “We have had to compress a four acre garden into just over one acre, which we have split into quadrants,” says Mike. “We are creating it for today’s purposes, while retaining traditional methods of growing.”

Blickling was bequeathed to the National Trust

by Philip Kerr, 11th Marquess of Lothian in 1940.

It is now a popular tourist attraction, with around 170,000 visitors annually. The walled garden supplies fresh produce to the on-site restaurant, and flowers to the hall, where the floristry team display them to perfection. “It is productive, but it has also been designed as a visitor experience, not just a place to grow fruit and vegetables,” explains Mike. Interaction with the local community is also key, with schools, students from the City College and adults with special needs attending regularly.

Next on the agenda will be the creation of an ‘engagement garden,’ which will include raised beds and sensory plants.

As with many walled gardens, the decline happened during the 1950s and 1960s. The original greenhouses were removed, and a Christmas tree plantation was established on the site. During the 1980s, it was briefly a garden centre. The huge glasshouse which ran along the back wall was removed in the 1950s. However, two other glasshouses and cold frames have been restored and are in use again.

“It would be great to replace that original glasshouse, and it’s something we may do in the future,” says Mike. “In its heyday, this area would have been like a food factory. Three gardeners were employed per acre, and an acre of ground fed around a dozen people.”

Now, Mike relies on his dedicated band of 60 volunteers. “Many hands have helped to create

The only remaining wall of the original glasshouse wall, Blickling

THE RISE AND FALL OF THE WALLED GARDEN Walled kitchen gardens were once found in the grounds of large houses all over the UK. The high walls, built of heat-retaining brick, and elaborate glasshouses, were designed to provide sheltered conditions so that even exotic fruits could thrive.

In the 18th and 19th century, ‘hot walls’ were built with fireplaces in them. The warmth from a single fireplace could heat up to 12m of wall and protect blossom from early frosts. After the two world wars, the labour market shrank, the social order changed, and many walled gardens fell into disrepair. Recently, with an interest in locally sourced food and fresh ingredients, some estates are managing to revive the walled garden tradition, adapting it for the 21st century, and creating an irresistible combination of beauty and function.

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

THIS LAND IS MY LAND…

Kieren Cross, a Partner in the Agriculture and Probate departments at Fraser Dawbarns LLP, makes the case for voluntary land registration.

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could assume your identity and attempt to register and then sell or mortgage the property without your knowledge.

Traditionally all land in England and Wales was unregistered and the owners of land would keep a bundle of documents and deeds to prove their ownership. The government had tried to overhaul the traditional conveyancing system with the introduction of the Law of Property Act 1925 and the Land Registration Act 1925 which updated previous laws and encouraged voluntary registration of land.

• If all or part of the title deeds of your land are lost, destroyed or forged it will be very difficult to prove ownership of unregistered land, however having the land registered centrally and digitally stored means that there will be a permanent record of your ownership.

s your land registered? It’s probably something you’ve not given a lot of thought to but having unregistered land can leave you at increased risk of fraud and cause problems in the future with inheritance. If you have owned your land since 1990 or before and have not taken out a mortgage since, there is a chance that your land is unregistered. But is this a problem?

This system largely stood until 1990 when compulsory registration was bought in with any sale of land and this was expanded further in 2002 to require registration for all inherited, gifted or mortgaged land. This has been a partial success, Land Registry data from 2016 showed that 17% of all land in the UK had not yet been registered.

Because of this the Land Registry is stepping up its efforts to encourage everyone to make sure that their land is registered. Many people may not see the need to register their land, especially with property that has been handed down through the generations within the same family but registration will bring you significant advantages.

in the case of compulsory registration which is required when the land is gifted, mortgaged or sold. Having your land registered will also simplify the conveyancing process which • Squatters have rights and can even become should further reduce your costs if you do decide to sell or mortgage the land. the legal owners of abandoned property by their adverse possession over a period of time.

There is information online that shows people There is also the risk that the government may bring in mandatory registration in the how to search for unregistered land, details future. If this happens they are unlikely to squatting rights and how to register land. If your land has already been registered, you are offer a discount on registration fees and may even raise them significantly. better protected.

This article aims to supply general information, but it is not intended to constitute advice.

Every effort is made to ensure that the law referred to is correct at the date of publication and to avoid any statement which may mislead. However, no duty of care is assumed to any person and no liability is accepted for any omission or inaccuracy. Always seek our specific advice. Fraser Dawbarns LLP are always happy to provide such advice.

• When it comes to dealing with the estate of a family member or loved one it can sometimes be difficult to locate Fraser Dawbarns have a the full title deeds and having your land range of experts who are registered saves additional problems at able to advise or assist what is already a difficult time. It is easier to you with land registration.

For further help with this submit an application for registration while issue, contact us today to the owner is alive and is able to provide see how we can help you a Statutory Declaration detailing how the register your land and provide you with deeds were lost or misplaced. peace of mind and security.

• If two adjoining plots of land are unregistered, the owner of the first plot to be registered may be able to set any disputed boundaries in their favour. Once this has been registered, it can then be difficult and costly for the neighbour to reverse this when they come to register their own land.

Significantly, the Land Registry is currently offering a discount on the cost of voluntary land • You will be better protected against fraud. registration. This discount will not be applied If your land is unregistered, a fraudster

Fraser Dawbarns, 21 Tuesday Marke t Place, Kings Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 666600 info@fraserdawba rns.com or visit www.fraserdawba rns.com 43

www.onestopnature.co.uk Enjoy Norfolk’s wildlife

Burn Valley Nursery

visit Richard Campey’s One Stop Nature Shop for everything to do with wildlife observation

Binoculars Telescopes Trail Cameras Books & Clothing Bird Food & Feeders Nest Box Cameras Microscopes Magnifiers Optic repairs Part exchange Commission Sales Friendly expert advice to suit all budgets and ensure that you get the correct equipment to suit your needs Our passion will help you get the most out of Norfolk’s wildlife & beyond

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BARTON Reed Panel Fencing Reed Panel Fencing created in Norfolk

by Thatcher Jon Moore and now in its 9th successful year, we have now become a market leader in quality handmade reed fencing panels and screens.

Located in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, with a newly purpose built workshop, Barton Reed continues to provide quality products to customers all over the UK.

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DISTRIBUTORS WANTED 9 Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, Norfolk PE31 8FB Tel 01485 211223 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10am-5pm www.onestopnature.co.uk 44

4 J’s Publishing require a reliable person to distribute the North Norfolk Living magazine.

• Own transport required.

Please contact Jim or Janet on 01485 571703 Or email: jimrace@jayars.co.uk or janetrace@jayars.co.uk

Rewilding

GO WILD…

Skylark © Richard Campey, www.onestopnature.co.uk

with Sarah Whittley ©www.pebblesphotography.co.uk

TOP TIP Spring fever Whenever I’m asked what’s my favourite season, I always answer “all of them!” But sneakily I can’t deny spring is probably the most exciting. The gradual lengthening daylight hours are the catalyst for a series of joyous natural events and luckily, here in North Norfolk there are many ways and places to witness them.

The earth seems to be stretching and yawning during February and March, recovering from its deep winter sleep. April is the month where every living thing seems to suddenly realize winter is finally over. Now every creature has one thing on its mind - sex.

You’ll see animals trying every spectacular way possible to get their partners to submit, from the fantastically flamboyant, frilly displays of the ruffs, the red devil dive bombing flights of the lapwing to the chunky female hares beating up any buck stupid enough to approach her before she’s ready.

Redstart ©www. pebblesphotography.co.uk

Don’t forget Natural Surroundings on the Bayfield Estate.

This hidden gem of a reserve is bound to inspire. Don’t miss their Dawn Chorus Walk on 4 April from 6 to 8am (£12 including breakfast) and Wildlife of The Glaven Valley Walk, 26 April 10.30am to 1.30pm (£12, 12 years and under free). Booking essential for both events 01263 711091. www.natural surroundings.info

A walk on the wild side The One Stop Nature Shop at Burnham Deepdale has a new programme of guided walks led by local expert Mike Crewe. Learn about the wildlife in Holkham Park on the first walk, on 1 April 10am to 1pm (£15). Book in advance on 01485 211223 and visit www.onestopnature.co.uk for details of the full series. All walks start at One Stop.

UP WITH THE LARK Did you know that 6 May is International Dawn Chorus Day? This has to be one of the great wonders of the natural world – and it’s free, but if you want some expert help there are many ways to get involved.

• Join charismatic local bird expert Nick Acheson at 5am at Sculthorpe Moor Community Nature Reserve on 9 and 12 May (£22, members £20, includes bacon or veggie butty and hot drinks). Nick isn’t taking a fee as he would like all profits to go towards the Sculthorpe Fen Land Appeal.

Please book on 01328 856788. hawkandowl.org • NWT Cley Marshes will be running free crafts and activities for all the family to celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day on 6 May from 10.30am to 4.30pm. They also have a packed programme of activities throughout year, some free and some with a small charge.

Visit their what’s on page at www. norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk • Listen to Holkham Nature Reserve’s avian woodland residents on 28 April and 5 May, 5.30am to 7.30am. Tickets are £5, book in advance. www.holkham.co.uk

Read all about it

ALL CHANGE And now the great bird swap begins.

Our wintering visitors, including tens of thousands of geese, head back to their Arctic breeding grounds and are replaced by returning birds from southern Europe and Africa. Look out for ring ouzels and redstarts and listen out for nightingales.

I’ve been inspired by a couple of books this year that have really enhanced my connection to the land. We’re currently enjoying a golden age of quality wildlife writing and I think the UK is probably leading the way in this genre.

In The Running Hare (Black Swan, £8.99), author John Lewis-Stempel took on a barren field for a year with the aim of farming it in a traditional way to see if he could bring back the local wildlife.

We all know Robins, well we think we do, but after reading Stephen Moss’ latest book The Robin: A Biography (Square Peg, £12.99), we might have to rethink Britain’s favourite bird!

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Rewilding

Totally moon and starstruck!

Last September the UK Dark Sky Discovery Partnership added Wiveton Downs to its growing list of special places to watch the night sky. Sarah Whittley joined the North Norfolk Astronomy Society (NNAS) for one of their Moonwatch evenings there, and she’s well and truly hooked

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Sarah’s moon picture, taken using her phone and a telescope with a little help from Martin from the NNAS. The night sky over Kelling Heath, taken at a Star Party by Shaun Reynolds. The star cluster M45 is visible lower right, and the Andromeda galaxy towards the centre. © www. shaunreynolds astro.com

HEN a friend called and asked if I’d like to join her on Wiveton Downs to go moon watching on possibly the coldest night of the year - how could I refuse! The first surprise of the night (and there were many) was the queue of cars arriving at the location, normally overlooked, this hidden gem of a habitat is home usually to dog walkers and rabbits.

But tonight it was host to one of the NNAS’ Moonwatch evenings. Their headquarters is in Wiveton, the next village to me and to my shame I’ve only just discovered them.

With only the light from my phone guiding me around the rabbit holes up to this ridge of land (an esker, a relic of the Ice Age), I soon found myself walking in line with other night sky devotees, all heading towards the large telescopes that had been erected on the top of the Downs by the Society.

As soon as we reached the safety of the crowd, all artificial lights were extinguished and we literally bumped our way from telescope to telescope. Even though we had sporadic bouts of thin cloud obscuring the stars, the moon’s brilliance made up for it.

It’s strange talking to someone for the first time without being able to see their face; I can’t tell you what Martin from the NNAS looks like but I’ll never forget him. He noticed my fascination at seeing the moon in luminescent detail and helped me take a photo through his telescope with my phone, pictured. The results were staggering.

As I stood with hands firmly clamped in my pockets, the overriding thought running through my head was just how small we are, how incalculably massive the universe is. Luckily my existential musings were halted with the offer of hot tomato soup and sausage rolls, courtesy of the NNAS. I learned a lot that night. I didn’t know that every year the moon is moving about 3.8 cm away from earth, the moon has earthquakes and it has no atmosphere. We know we couldn’t exist without our moon but it’s amazing just how influential it is in our everyday life. It dictates the tides, our moods – well, that’s debatable but there are many that believe it affects our mental state, including the great philosopher Aristotle; after all the word lunatic comes from the Latin lunaticus, meaning a madness caused by the moon.

In the few words I have left I need to tell you about the Milky Way! North Norfolk is renowned for its big skies. Thanks to our lack of light pollution, we’re included in the third of humanity lucky enough to see this awesome wonder of the sky. It’s milky as this galaxy of dust and gases makes it impossible to single out one single star, instead we see a shimmering, milky mass of over a billion stars - truly awesome!

Seeing stars If you’d like to join or find out more about the NNAS, you can contact them at info@nnas. org or www.nnas.org. Members meet on the third Friday of each month at Binham Village Hall.

And if you want to brush up on your knowledge, the NNAS regularly run an excellent Introductory Astronomy Course.

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

Check out www. darkskydiscovery.org.uk to see over 150 other great star spotting sites around the UK, including Kelling Heath. You can pick up a Dark Sky Discovery Stargazing Guide for Kelling Heath at Kelling Heath Holiday Park’s reception.

Head to Deepdale Hygge (23 to 25 March) and enjoy stargazing with the King’s Lynn and District Astronomy Society on the Friday and Saturday evenings. They’ll be on hand to help navigate and understand the night sky over Deepdale. Visit www. deepdalebackpackers.co.uk for more information.

Did you know the Norwich Astronomical Society organise star parties on Kelling Heath?

There are over 200 pitches for astronomical campers from the amateur to the experienced. The next one is from the 12 to 19 April.

Visit www.starparty.org for details.

47

THE NORTH NORFOLK

BOATYARD We’re a growing team of craftsmen and engineers led by Daniel Loose, on hand to maintain, service and restore your boat, whether it’s a classic wooden sailing dinghy, a day boat or a modern cruiser. The yard is based near Brancaster Staithe on the North Norfolk coast with large indoor storage facilities.

Contact us to discuss the work your boat needs in preparation for the new sailing season on 07879 842731 “Daniel and his team always work with meticulous attention to detail. The result is superb craftsmanship.”

Mr Dominic Dowley

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Rewilding

STEPPING OUT

In the first of a new series of local walks, Nicholas Rudd-Jones enjoys a coastal stroll from Stiffkey to Blakeney

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HIS walk takes you along the coast with an outlook towards Blakeney Point, one of the most stunning natural landscapes you will ever experience, with creeks, marshes and wildlife in abundance.

Pit stops

Walk data Distance: 7.3km (4 ½ miles) Typical time: 1 ¾ hours Height gain: none Map: OS Landranger 132 NE Norfolk & 133 NW Norfolk Start: Coasthopper bus stop Stiffkey Stores Finish: Coasthopper bus stop Blakeney Bus Shelter (on the main A149 coast road) Terrain: straightforward; sturdy footwear recommended Norfolk Coast Path: this route follows the Norfolk Coast Path for almost its entire length. The path is well signed and the route is marked with an acorn motif.

The Stiffkey Red Lion (150m west of Hollow Lane) offers good food and real ale.

01328 830552, www.stiffkey.com

Points of Interest Seal Trips depart regularly from Morston Quay, depending on tide and weather. The seals are usually to be found basking on the sandbanks at the far end of Blakeney Point. On many trips, you will have the chance to land on Blakeney Point and see the evocative blue Lifeboat House.

Beans Boats 01263 740038 www.beansboattrips.co.uk; Bishops Boats 01263 740753 www.bishopsboats.com; Temples Seal Trips 01263 740791 www.sealtrips.co.uk Blakeney Point, a four-mile-long sand and shingle spit is part of Blakeney National Nature Reserve, and has been managed by the National Trust since 1912. It’s designated as one of the most important sites in Europe for nesting terns.

Blakeney was a commercial seaport until the early 20th century. Just inland from the harbour is Mariners Hill. This vantage point is believed to be man-made, probably as a lookout point for the harbour. Adjacent to the hill is the old Guildhall with a 14th century undercroft.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Stiffkey Stores (by the bus stop) sell all sorts of lovely local and organic produce, including artisan breads and savouries. They bake incredible cakes and serve the most delicious coffee too! 01328 830489, www.stiffkeystores.com

The White Horse, Blakeney is a cosy and welcoming pub, just up the High Street from the harbour on the right. 01263 740574, www.whitehorseblakeney.co.uk The Moorings, Blakeney is a lovely spot for a drink, slice of cake or light lunch, just a stone’s throw from the harbour up the High Street.

01263 740054, www.blakeney-moorings.co.uk

The route:

1

From the Coasthopper bus stop, head a short way NW along the main road, then turn right (N) up a lane with a footpath sign, which takes you to the sea On reaching the creek, turn right (E) along the North Norfolk Coast Path and follow it to Morston Quay, the embarkation point for seal trips Cross the parking area and continue on the other side along the coast path; follow the path all the way to Blakeney.

It comes in at the W end of the harbour; proceed to the main parking area and centre of the village, just by the Blakeney Hotel When it’s time to catch the bus back, head back E and then down S down Westgate Street to the main road and the bus shelter.

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©Crown copyright 2015 Ordnance Survey.

Media 048/15 NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Living

ey and her two little dl oo G tie at H s! lie el Standby with your w cks for Easter fun, pi p to r ei th e ar sh d, helpers, Willa and Mau g some very muddy puddles), plus a udin outdoor activities (incl y! little bit of retail therap

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Am r Ai . an try Visit ww gli en r An pe st m. Cost £3 t to the Ea from 10am to 3p Lend your suppor tate on 31 March, Es am gh rin nd Sa at the www.eaaa.org.uk

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Willa gardening

A little growing

am Estate year at the Holkh Brand new for this b, which Clu ing en rd rs Ga is their Green Finge n April ee ay a month betw will run one Saturd l about ‘Al led tit en first one is and October. The morning on 14 April with a plants’ and kicks off am .30 (10 five-year-olds session for two to six to for ion ss se ernoon till noon) and an aft letely mp co a It’s . m) 0p 11-year-olds (1pm-2.3 taking Willa I will definitely be brilliant idea and ring passion du en lly fu t a hope along to kick-star all seven s! It costs £35 for for growing thing ial. nt se es ooking is sessions, and pre-b ok visit bo to d an ion at For further inform 713111 8 .uk or call 0132 www.holkham.co

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© Save the Children

jumping le d d u p y d d u m e A littl Peppa Pig’s Muddy ain be taking part in

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A little bushcraf

ag last year’s fantastic the country will once d attempting to beat s and families across an rie ren rse ild nu Ch g, rin the Sp ve is Th t of Sa to 29 April, in suppor ad to your Puddle Walk from 23 0. leWalk.org and he ,00 £243 www.MuddyPudd m fro fundraising total of ck pa ng isi ur free fundra Sign up now for yo ! uddle puddles ASAP m of tch nearest pa

g sounding running the intriguin Sheringham Park are 0pm on 4 April ol from 10.30am to 3.3 Family Survival Scho l skills by making va rvi ance to test their su ch a s ilie fam ing giv ut matches, foraging , lighting a fire witho waterproof shelters woods with a ng the Norfolk back for food and navigati all participating for ed val kit is includ rvi su e fre A s! as mp co ults £18.

2, accompanying ad children. Children £2 or visit www. s to book your place Call 0344 2441895 k and learn about ar -p am /sheringh nationaltrust.org.uk r holidays ere during the Easte more adventures th

ning! n la p d r a w r o f e l A litt ans least, Stody d last but by no me Stody Kids for Kids Family Fun Day

An Kids ll be hosting their Lodge Gardens wi 6 ay nd n Day on Su for Kids Family Fu s activities and game th wi m, 5p to May, 1 y rides, the Stod galore, plus donkey painting, treasure e fac , ow Fun Dog Sh s ious homemade tea hunting and delic y’s od colour of St all set in the riot of on and azalea dr en od od unique rh , (cash or cheque), £6 gardens. Entrance under 12s free. rdens.co.uk www.stodylodgega NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Living

.com langleyphotography Willa © www.andy

A little making…

ads make a lovely These fun cress he ve and children will lo Easter decoration s grow watching the seed l need: To make two you’l ns of cress seeds oo sp tea 2 • • 2 eggs pens to • Paints or felt tip lls • 2 cotton wool ba too ll we rk wo ts ghurt po decorate • little yo . a delicate operation The first bit is quite t ou y pt em d an gs e eg Cut the tops off th ntly in se the shell very ge rin xt Ne ts. en nt co the to dry. water, then leave d decorate to get creative an e tim it’s w No of fun d es (Willa ha lots the shells with fac doing this!) wet k is dry, it’s time to Once your artwor od go a em th lls, give the cotton wool ba . ell sh ch ea in t one cress wring out, then pu with a teaspoon of Sprinkle each one em th p Po s. gin be iting seeds. Then the wa windowsill y nn su a on ve d lea into an egg cup an germinate eds should start to for a week. The se . within a few days

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… g n i p p o h s e l t A lit s hunt for lovely boxe I am forever on the ing the ever-grow and baskets to stash ich appears to be wh s ng thi k sea of pin This dragon storage engulfing our house. me addition to my box would be a welco y playroom (they’d girls’ bedrooms or an design). rn also love the unico Sprouts storage 3 e th m £18 each, fro le at Bells and range now availab e Orchards, ov Dr , Whistles Kids 5676 Thornham 01485 52 tleskids.co.uk his dw an lls be w. ww As a true farmer’s daughter, I know that Maud would be pleased as punch tif with these farm mo lilly dungarees by Picca ing mp sto for – perfect g! around in this sprin 2, £2 Dungarees farming top £20, Baby O, Holt 07748 266565

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NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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baskets And likewise, these come ing Liv t oo ref Ba from d look an es in two handy siz ld… so I’m ! great too ge Small basket £10, lar Living, ot fo re Ba basket £25, t ke ar M m ha Burn 01328 738100 g.co.uk www.barefoot-livin

n’t forget hunt for presents, do And if you’re on the ich sells wh s ell W in li ocolate De home to check out The Ch the gorgeous things for their a well curated edit of e sid ng alo le present ideas s fab and lots of great litt thi e lov I . ats tre de ndma eet amazing array of ha sw r he eit leware, available in s. int melamine baby tab pr b cra or ale little wh , .50 £4 rk £4.50, knife and fo 0 92 Food tray £12, cups 07 , ea -S he Wells-next-t The Chocolate Deli, colatedeli.co.uk 463643 www.thecho

is ant children’s corner Thornham Deli’s brilli ing lud inc as ide t great gif packed full of lots of mfar of t se ely lov s thi these themed stamps and of tes cra ni mi le adorab th by wooden play food, bo . ug Do Melissa & tes Stamps and food cra am nh or Th £22.95 each, Deli, Thornham 01485 512194 www. k thornhamdeli.co.u

Wells-Next-the-Sea I NR23 1JP I 01328 712201

Wooden, Open ended, Sensory and Educational Toys.

Sustainability is key. Organic cotton clothing, British made products, Natural toiletries.

A traditional coastal Inn

A hidden gem – Ele and Me is just off the main high street and is filled with irresistible gifts for younger children…

We serve food all day every day from 12.00 until 21.00

eleandme

eleandmewells

eleandmewells

A great place to eat with kids in Norfolk Children’s menu Quality ingredients and fresh flavours l Big family tables l Plenty of space for high chairs and buggies l Fun activity packs and free wi-fi

l

l

Ship Lane I Thornham I Norfolk I PE36 6LT

01485 512236

www.lifeboatinnthornham.com info@lifeboatinnthornham.com 53

THE NORFOLK RIDDLE in the historic village of Walsingham

CONTEMPORARY ENGLISH FOOD

A Family Run Business

Our Takeaway NELSONS serve cooked to order Fish & Chips daily.

Opening times - Tuesday - Saturday 12.00 - 2.00pm, 5.00 - 9.00pm Sunday 12.00 - 3.00pm

Local fresh produce sourced within 20 miles of the restaurant Lunch time 2 course menu available Tuesday - Saturday 12-2pm Sunday lunch 2 courses Junior 2 course menu for 12’s & under Dog friendly We also cater for all types of private parties.

OPENING TIMES Tuesday - Saturday 12.00 - 2.00pm and 6.30 - 9.00pm Sunday's 12.00 - 3.00pm

The Norfolk Riddle - 2 Wells Road, Walsingham, Norfolk, NR22 6DJ Tel: 01328 821903 - Info@norfolkriddle Twitter - #norfolkriddle Facebook - The Norfolk Riddle www.norfolkriddle.co.uk

54

DAILY SPECIALS BOARD

Food & Drink

Happy Birthday North Street Bistro!

Kitchen kit Add a pop of pattern to your table this season with these nature-inspired designs

The team at North Street Bistro in Burnham Market, (formerly known as 20 North Street) are celebrating their first anniversary on 18 March. After a busy first year with waiting lists most evenings, the bistro will now be opening for dinner only (plus Sunday lunch) so their small team can focus on maintaining the high standards they’ve already set.

North Street Bistro will also be holding supper clubs on various Tuesdays throughout the year.

Visit www.20northstreet.co.uk for more details.

North Street Bistro, Burnham Market 01328 730330

Eating in Kieran Aubrey, sous chef at The Feathers Hotel in Holt, shares his recipe for chorizo crumbed lamb rack with pea, asparagus and watercress salad - perfect for a taste of spring!

Ingredients • 1 French trimmed rack of lamb (at room temperature) • 50g chorizo • 50g breadcrumbs • 200g peas • 200g watercress • 1 bunch of asparagus

• A couple of sprigs of fresh mint, finely chopped • Dijon mustard for coating the lamb • 2 cloves of garlic • A pinch of thyme • Butter

Food News

This pretty Songbird collection in blue from moochi modo includes oven gloves, Aga covers and a tea towel. Pictured bowl £42.50, jug £37.50 and mug £15.95.

Moochi modo, Holt 01263 711180 www.moochimodo.com

Preheat the oven to 180C For the chorizo crumb • Dice the chorizo • Crush the garlic and add to a food processor with the chorizo until fine • Add the breadcrumbs to the chorizo mixture, add a pinch of thyme and stir to make sure all flavours are mixed together well For the lamb • Sear the lamb on all sides in a hot oiled pan • Spread the Dijon mustard onto the lamb (this will allow the chorizo crumb mixture to stick) • Apply the chorizo crumb to the lamb and firmly press down to make sure all surfaces of the lamb are covered • Roast in a preheated oven at 180C for 1820 minutes crumb side up (this will ensure a wonderfully pink centre. Cook for longer if you prefer).

For the salad • Blanch the asparagus and peas in salted boiling water for 3-4 minutes depending on thickness • Drain and add the finely chopped mint and a knob of butter • Season and toss in a bowl with watercress Serve and enjoy!

The Feathers Hotel, Holt 01263 712318 www.thefeathershotel.com

Michelle and Stephanie Witts have recently opened their first shop, Mitographie at Franklyns Yard in Holt. The motherdaughter team, who already run online business, Witts Design, use traditional screen printing and modern digital techniques to create colourful fabrics, cushions and other homewares.

I love these mackerel placemats (£30 for four) and coasters (£16 for four) from their Beachcomber collection, inspired by North Norfolk.

Mitographie, Holt 07595 150962 www.mitographie.com www.wittsdesign.com

Calling all marmalade makers It’s jam jars at the ready for the second Norfolk Marmalade Making Awards at The Norfolk Deli in Hunstanton on 31 March.

“We had over 30 entries last year,” says Rosie Kacary of The Norfolk Deli. “There was everything from traditional Seville orange marmalade as well as more exotic flavour combinations, it made the judging very difficult.”

Rosie will be joined as a judge again by a marmalade making world champion, Ali Barwick from Norfolk based Seasons Bounty.

Richard Atkinson at You Cook in Hunstanton has stocked up on marmalade making equipment, so why not give it a go? Drop you entry off by the morning of 31 March. Judging will take place later that day, one of the Deli’s Showcase Saturdays featuring Norfolk producers, which take place on the second and last Saturday of each month. Good luck!

The Norfolk Deli, Hunstanton 01485 535540 www.norfolk-deli.co.uk You Cook, Hunstanton 01485 535889 www.you-cook-ltd.co.uk NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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Food & Drink

Under the grill with...

Out to lunch With a catch up long overdue, a friend and I headed to The Chequers Inn, Thornham, for a great deal of chatting and to try their new menu, writes Amanda Loose

Dan Lawrence, chef director at Socius, which has recently opened in Burnham Market Describe your style of cooking Our food is served on small plates, as a modern British take on tapas, using local, seasonal produce. We keep the flavours very simple, with only two or three ingredients on each plate.

Sweet or savoury?

I prefer working with savoury flavours. One of my favourite savoury dishes on our menu is ox cheek with celeriac and shallots. The flavours are really intense and delicious!

The dish you most enjoy preparing Our pork cheek drinking snacks, served with local carrot puree and tarragon. The final product just melts in your mouth!

Where would you go for your last meal Right now it would have to be Empellon Cocina in New York. We visited last year for my birthday. It was absolutely incredible.

Socius, Burnham Market 01328 738307 www.sociusnorfolk.co.uk

Tasters

Food News

Smokin’

Gurneys have opened a new smokehouse adjoining their fish shop at Drove Orchards. It’s a visual feast with traditional oak smoked haddock, kippers, kiln roast salmon and their time honoured cold smoked salmon, all smoked on a daily basis, plus yummy additions including shellfish and duck breast. They’re also starting to add Drove Orchards apple wood into the mix.

Wholesale orders are now available (call 01328 738967). Watch this space!

Gurneys Fish Shop, Drove Orchards, Thornham 01485 525857 www.gurneysfishshop.co.uk

Time to Remember

A new charity beer, Drink to Remember, has been launched kicking off the Time to Remember campaign organised by Nigel Morter and Claire Nugent of the Control Tower B&B to raise money for a memorial to those who served at RAF North Creake during the Second World War. Approximately 15p from each pint of the beer sold will go towards the memorial.

Brewed by Beeston Brewery, Drink to Remember is now available from the Carpenters Arms, Wighton, The Black Lion, Little Walsingham, the Binham Chequers, The Three Horseshoes, Warham, The Lifeboat Inn, Wells and The Brisley Bell plus The Real Ale Shop from April. www.controltowerstays.com 56

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

Head chef Shayne Wood and his team have come up with a varied menu which draws heavily on local produce, and includes Norfolk Tapas, The Chequers’ yummy stone-baked pizza selection, plus a roster of main courses including breast of Norfolk duck and chick pea and spinach curry. There’s also a vegan menu.

After sharing olives with balsamic, homemade hummus and focaccia bread (£5.50) we both plumped for mains from the exciting new street food menu. We were not disappointed.

When Eric met Marcus

Eric Snaith and Marcus French have joined forces to create an exciting new look at French’s Fish & Chips in Wells. The team from Eric’s Fish & Chips at Drove Orchards have been working with the French’s crew on rebranding and a new-look interior which draws on French’s heritage - the business was started by Marcus’ grandfather over 90 years ago.

There are also a few new tasty additions to the menu, including market fish of the day.

French’s Fish & Chips, Wells 01328 710396 www.frenchs.co.uk

My friend had the garlic butter stuffed chicken burger with rustic chips and The Chequers slaw (£15) – she declared it moist and delicious, though was defeated by the very generously sized burger. I opted for smoked salmon and cream cheese pancakes with mustard dressed lamb’s lettuce (£10, pictured), which were light and very flavourful.

We rounded off our lunch by sampling a selection of their tasty homemade ice creams and sorbets (£6). Like the rest of the meal, it was delicious. All chatted out, we both headed off back to work, though a walk might have been more appropriate!

For afters Why not head to the nearby reserves RSPB Titchwell Marsh or NWT Holme Dunes to walk it off and get back to nature.

Need to know The Chequers Inn, Thornham, 01485 512229 www.chequersinnthornham.com

A DELIGHTFUL INN ON THE NORTH NORFOLK COAST STYLISH BEDROOMS - CLEVERLY-CRAFTED MENUS - FINE WINES - ROARING FIRES

SPRING IS IN THE AIR in Burnham Market

NEW ALL DAY SEASONAL MENU, HISTORIC BAR, HOSTE OF MUSIC, BEAUTY SPA, THE ‘REMEMBER NELSON’ EXHIBITION & LUXURY CINEMA

Norfolk E x perie nce Ta s tin g M en u No w available £38.95 per perso n www.chequersinnthornham.com info@chequersinnthornham.com High Street I Thornham I Norfolk I PE36 6LY

01485 512229

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Humble Pie Delicatessen 28 Market Place, Burnham Market Above Gurneys info@humblepiedeli.co.uk 01328 738 581 OPENING HOURS: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm

THE LYNN ARMS EAT

DRINK

SLEEP

An 18th century pub, just 15 minutes drive from the beautiful Brancaster, Holkham and Wells beaches serving fine home cooked food daily. We specialise in gluten free diets. A large selection of Real Ales and Craft Beers available.

Newly refurbished Bed & Breakfast rooms, all with bespoke fittings. Relax in a pretty courtyard and garden. Dog friendly.

The Lynn Arms I The Street I Syderstone I PE31 8TR I 01485 578446 I www.thelynnarmspub.co.uk @TheLynnArms1 58

@lynnarmssyderstone

@thelynnarms

Food & Drink

SUNDAY BEST When the thought of cooking a roast is too much, why not go out for Sunday lunch? Harriet Cooper rounds up some of the best places to choose from

CREAKE ABBEY CAFE & FOOD HALL, NORTH CREAKE

On the menu While the Creake Abbey Café offers hearty breakfasts, delicious lunches and afternoon teas seven days a week, those after Sunday lunch will not be disappointed.

Choose from the customised menu of starters, mains and desserts or the roast, which changes weekly: it could be anything from venison to roast beef served inside a giant Yorkshire pudding.

USP If you love what you eat, why not pop into the adjoining Food Hall where you can purchase many of the ingredients on your way home?

Walk it off at Wander over to the ruins of Creake Abbey, where you can embark on a circular route via Burnham Thorpe, the birthplace of Nelson.

Book 01328 730399 www.creakeabbey.co.uk

SHUCK’S, THORNHAM

THE LYNN ARMS, SYDERSTONE On the menu Traditional 18th-century pub The Lynn Arms, in the heart of the pretty village of Syderstone, does a classic traditional Sunday roast. Chicken is on offer every week with either beef, lamb or pork (the meat is locallysupplied) plus, of course, all the trimmings. The parsnip crisps are a favourite.

USP Head chef Michael Prince is passionate about catering for those on a gluten-free diet - the Yorkshire puds, gravy and many of the desserts are free from gluten.

Walk it off at Follow lunch with a postprandial stroll at nearby Syderstone Common, a Norfolk Wildlife Trust spot punctuated with ponds and ripe for spotting reptiles and amphibians.

Book 01485 578446 www.thelynnarmspub.co.uk

On the menu Set in a cosy yurt, Shuck’s serves up a stellar menu seven days a week. On Sundays there’s always a roast, usually topside of local beef, as well as a vegetarian Wellington, both served with roast potatoes, cauliflower and leek crumble, red wine gravy, and the famous ‘Thornham pudding’ (the huge Yorkshires).

USP Located at Drove Orchards, which grows over 160 varieties of Drove Orchards © Paul Macro Photography apples and pears, it’s no surprise fruit features on the Shuck’s menu - nothing beats fresh apple sauce with your pork or a fruit crumble to finish off your meal.

Walk it off at The 40 acres of orchards are perfect meandering material. Or head to nearby Thornham Harbour and follow the Norfolk coast path to the beach.

Book 01485 525889 www.shucksattheyurt.co.uk

THE HUNWORTH BELL, HUNWORTH On the menu The Hunworth Bell offers a Sunday menu that changes weekly, tapping into local, seasonal produce.

While you’ll always find the slow-cooked roast pork and the roast beef on the menu, other mouth-watering numbers might include chargrilled sea bass with saffron aioli, squid, saffron potatoes, chorizo and tarragon oil.

USP Food is served all day here, whether you want to reward yourself after a bracing morning walk, fancy an early tea with the family or a more intimate candlelit dinner.

Walk it off at The nearby Stody Estate is criss-crossed with pretty footpaths and bridleways which will take you through woods and rolling fields. In May, the stunning Stody Lodge Gardens are not to be missed.

Book 01263 711151 www.hunworthbell.co.uk

THE NORFOLK RIDDLE, WALSINGHAM

Walsingham Abbey

On the menu The family-run Norfolk Riddle, in Walsingham, has a dedicated Sunday roast menu with three options on offer, all served with the traditional accompaniments. This runs alongside the normal à la carte menu, plus the everpopular fish and chips from the adjacent takeaway.

USP Proximity to Walsingham Farm Shop and the Walsingham Estate means a wealth of seasonal ingredients are on the menu.

Walk it off at Visit the spectacular ruins of Walsingham Abbey, before moseying round the village to appreciate its Medieval half-timbered jettied buildings, Georgian facades, the 18th-century prison, a Russian Orthodox church in an old railway station, and East Anglia’s first new-build carbon-neutral church.

Book 01328 821903 www.norfolkriddle.co.uk NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

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What’s on

Put a spring in your step!

We fill in your diary, so you don’t have to

Follow your arts Big Sky Art Unleash your creative side on a residential Big Sky Art course at The White House, at Sussex Farm near Burnham Market. By day, experiment with watercolours, oils, or pastels with top art tutors; by night, luxuriate in your country house surrounds complete with delicious home-cooked meals. £495 per person. Nonresidential places are also available, £210 per person.

When Monday 9 to Thursday 12 April.

07785 439727 www.bigskyartcourses.com; www. stayatthewhitehouse.co.uk Morston Book Sale Calling all bookworms: this year’s book sale at Morston Barn is set to be the biggest yet, with thousands of good quality, second-hand tomes up for grabs and all proceeds going to Friends of Morston Church. Refreshments and parking are available.

When Saturday 5 to Monday 7 May, 10am to 5pm. www.fmc.org.uk

B

Sarah Cohen on Treason, International Horse Trials

Wayfaring, original artworks by And Now: © Photo Nick Read Photography

Norfolk & Norwich Festival 2018 The largest arts festival in the East of England promises a stellar line-up, including world premiere productions from theatre company Improbable and circus company Barely Methodical Troupe, as well as Wayfaring featuring brand new landscape art on Wells Beach. Ticket prices vary.

When Friday 11 to Sunday 27 May. www.nnfestival.org.uk

Curtain raisers

Bugsy Malone, Sheringham Little Theatre The Sheringham Little Theatre Youth Group returns with a rip-roaring production of Bugsy Malone. Set in prohibition New York, follow the tales of rival gang leaders Fat Sam and Dandy Dan as the custard pies start flying. A show for all the family. £10, under-16s £5.

When Friday 6 to Saturday 14 April, 7.30pm (and a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday 14 April). www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com Roy Orbison, Princess Theatre Hunstanton There’s an exciting programme of events at the Princess Theatre but ‘Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience 30th Anniversary Tour’ is a highlight. This up-tempo tribute to Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, George Harrison, Tom Petty and Bob Dylan will have you dancing in the aisles. Tickets from £19.

When Saturday 17 March, 7.30pm. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk Islands in the Stream, Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre The Spring season at Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre offers comedy, music, dance, opera and musicals, appealing to all tastes and ages. But if we had to choose just one, it would be ‘Islands in the Stream - The Music of Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers’. £24.

When Monday 2 April, 8pm. www.cromerpier.co.uk 60

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

B Roy Orbison & the Traveling Wilburys Experience

Spring Gift Fair, Creake Abbey

All the fun of the fair The Norfolk Hospice Spring Fair Craft stalls, games, jumble, barbecue, refreshments, great prizes… the Spring Fair at the Norfolk Hospice in Hillington promises to be a fun-packed day for all the family, with all proceeds going to the charity.

When Saturday 24 March, 11am to 2pm. www.norfolkhospice.org.uk

Animal magic International Horse Trials Equine lovers flock to the Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials at Sussex Barn, Burnham Market, and the Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International Horse Trials at Houghton Hall. Expect worldclass competitors at both events. Adult tickets from £8.

When Thursday 29 to Saturday 31 March (Burnham Market) and Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 May (Houghton). www.musketeer.co.uk Easter Monday Race Day, Fakenham Racecourse The biggest meeting in the Fakenham Racecourse calendar - Easter Monday Race Day - is a great day out with superb racing, a bar, hog roast and entertainment. Admission prices for Grandstand and Paddock, and Members’ Enclosure, are cheaper if booked online in advance. From £10.

When Monday 2 April, first race time to be confirmed. www.fakenhamracecourse.co.uk Pensthorpe Natural Park There’s a whole flock of activities at Pensthorpe this Spring from Bird ID, a beginner’s guide to identifying birds (23 March, £25, lunch included), to Night Time in the New Hide, where you’ll watch the reserve’s birds come in to roost (18 April, £15 or £21 including dinner).

When Friday 23 March, 10am to 3pm and Wednesday 18 April, 7.30pm to 9pm. www.pensthorpe.com Spring Gift Fair, Creake Abbey Looking for gifts or treats for the home, garden or table? With over 40 craftsmen, producers and artists showcasing their wares at the Spring Gift Fair, there’s something for everyone. Take a break from shopping at the Creake Abbey Café & Food Hall, with its locally-sourced menu.

When Saturday 31 March, 10am to 4pm. www.creakeabbey.co.uk

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What’s on

Put a spring in your step!

We fill in your diary, so you don’t have to Lionel Richie, New Orleans © Alan Silfen

Blickling Hall

Face the music

The great outdoors

Deepdale 1940s Weekend While Deepdale’s monthly Sunday Sessions see a host of talented musicians playing at the hostel and campsite, for something with a bit of a swing, don’t miss the 1940s Weekend. Expect dancing, live entertainment, films and more. Time to dig out your tea dress. £15 or £10 if you’re staying on site.

When Friday 11 to Sunday 13 May. www.deepdalebackpackers.co.uk

Walk for Parkinson’s at Blickling Step out for charity at the Walk for Parkinson’s at Blickling Hall - one of a series of walk events to be held across the UK for Parkinson’s UK during 2018.

There are a range of distances to suit everyone; the registration fee is £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s.

When Saturday 12 May, 11am. www.parkinsons.org.uk/walkblicklingestate

Saturday Morning Music at Fakenham Parish Church Head to Fakenham Parish Church on the first Saturday of every month and you’ll be treated to a live music performance - everything from Vivaldi to Tudor ‘pop’ music - at the Church’s regular Saturday Morning Music sessions. Free refreshments.

When Saturday 7 April, 10.30am to noon. www.fakenhamparishchurch.org.uk Lionel Richie Lionel Richie fans will be dancing all night long when the legendary crooner comes to Holkham Hall this summer as part of his All The Hits tour.

Expect classics such as ‘Dancing on the Ceiling’, ‘Say You Say Me’, ‘Hello’ and ‘All Night Long’. From £75.

When Sunday 24 June. www.holkham.co.uk

B Book now

Classic Ibiza at Blickling Dance the night away at the annual Classic Ibiza shindig at Blickling Hall, where the Urban Soul Orchestra, DJ Goldierocks and a host of live vocalists will be performing some of the biggest dance tracks from the last 20 years. £39.50.

When Friday 10 August, gates open 5.30pm. www.classicibiza.co.uk Fairy Fair The Fairy Fair, held this year in the Primrose Woods at the Stradsett 62

Classic Ibiza at Blickling

Estate, is an enchanting two-day extravaganza of entertainment, nature and magic for all the family.

There’ll be Wizard and Fairy Training, storytelling, walkabout performers, drop-in workshops and more. £10 adult, £9 child, under-3s free.

When Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 May, 10am to 5pm. www.creativeorchardevents.com

NORTH NORFOLK LIVING SPRING 2018

Hindringham Hall Gardens Hindringham Hall Gardens open on Easter Sunday, when the daffodils should be in full bloom, and then every Wednesday (10am to 1pm) and Sunday (2pm to 5pm). Don’t miss the new bridge, which spans the Medieval moat. £7.50.

Children under 16 free.

When Sundays and Wednesdays from 1 April until October. www.hindringhamhall.org

Planes, trains and automobiles The Heritage Centre, RAF Bircham Newton Take a trip down memory lane at the Heritage Centre at Bircham Newton, which houses a unique collection of memorabilia from the former RAF station’s past, spanning two World Wars and the Cold War. When Sunday 1 and Monday 2 April; Sunday 6 and Monday 7 May, 10am to 4pm. www.rafbnmp.org.uk Wells & Walsingham Light Railway Hop aboard the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway for The White Rabbit Easter Trail and join Alice in Wonderland to hunt clues down the line. Their standard fares apply; during Easter weekend, for an extra £1, you’ll receive a boxed Easter egg for every completed trail.

When Thursday 29 March to Sunday 15 April. www.wwlr.co.uk

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway

The Hoste Classic and Supercar Club The Hoste in Burnham Market welcomes a glittering array of modern and vintage vehicles to its annual twoday classic and supercar event in May. It’s a must-see for all petrolheads - last year there were more than 40 cars, worth an impressive £15 million.

When Thursday 10 to Friday 11 May, with photographs and judging on the Friday morning, making it a great time to visit.

01328 738777 www.thehoste.com All admission free unless otherwise stated

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Barefoot Living, Church House, Overy Road, Bur nham Market, Kings Lynn, PE31 8HH 01328 738 100 • www.barefoot-living.co.uk63

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