North Norfolk Living Autumn 2025

Norfolk North LIVING

Contents Autumn 2025

WELCOME

to our autumn issue of North Norfolk Living magazine. As I write, it feels like a day when the seasons converge; balmy and blueskied, but the leaves are slowly beginning to turn and joy of joys, those honking heralds of autumn - the pink-footed geese - have returned, stopping many of us in our tracks.

In this edition, we’re embracing the new season and all that it has to offer with equal enthusiasm; from Natalie Douglas discovering 10 ways to celebrate autumn’s glory to our definitive guide to local events and activities for all the family, plus the latest foodie news and cultural happenings, and much more besides!

I hope you enjoy the issue.

Amanda Loose

This issue’s front cover features ‘Morning Hare’, a limited-edition linocut print by local artist Joanna Padfield, available from Sanders & Christie Gallery in Sheringham. Joanna takes her inspiration from walks along our coastline with her sketchbook, recreating her sketches as stunning linocuts. You can see more of her work at Sanders & Christie Gallery. www.sandersandchristie.co.uk

@northnorfolkliving

North Norfolk Living Magazine www.northnorfolkliving.co.uk

Editor Amanda Loose

Email: amanda@northnorfolkliving.co.uk 07796 645427

Write to North Norfolk Living Magazine, PO Box 208, Stamford. Lincs. PE9 9FY

Advertising Manager

Bridget Steele 01733 707538 / 07745 107897

Email bridget@northnorfolkliving.co.uk

Head of Design

Steven Handley

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

Details correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change

5-8 HEADLINING THIS SEASON

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

11-15 NORFOLK PEOPLE

Anwen Hurt tells Sarah Hardy about an exciting new year-round arts programme for Holt and Bella Middleton shares her guide to North Norfolk

17-35

ARTS & CULTURE

Concerts, shows and exhibitions galore; Harriet Cooper checks out Norwich’s thriving arts scene; dive into our autumn reading guide and get creative with our round up of local workshops!

39-43

STYLE

Rachel Bowles shares her top picks for shopping pre-loved fashion in North Norfolk and Amanda Loose discovers it’s all about checks and balances this season!

46-50 BEAUTY & WELLBEING

News and notes, and Harriet Cooper’s guide to your great autumn reset

54-60 REWILDING

10 ways to celebrate autumn’s golden spell; go wild with Robin Chittenden and Natalie Douglas shines a spotlight on some of North Norfolk’s conservation projects and heroes

63-82 LIVING

Green-fingered tips; Niobe Wray-Shaw shares fantastic Norfolk finds for greener living, we get the lowdown on six local homeware brands, and Rachel Bowles enjoys a visit to North Walsham

86-92 FOOD & DRINK

Sarah Hardy serves up a helping of foodie news, gets a taste for small plates and meets four long-standing local chefs

94 THE LAST WORD

Sarah Hardy finds out more about Betty’s Club in Burnham Market

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Headlining this season…

From contemporary art with a twist and steam train celebrations to mussel festivals and bountiful harvest displays, we fill in your autumn diary, so you

don’t have to

Spy dragons and suitcase towers

The theme of this year’s Bayfield Sculpture Trail, which runs until 19 October, is Dragons and Mazes, with visitors invited to explore sculptures and sound installations across woodland and wild gardens at Bayfield Hall, near Holt. The circular trail features works created by 40 artists, sculptors, musicians and makers, some site-specific, others on tour from the Raveningham Sculpture Trail. You’ll spy Pylonasaurus, a dragon made from wire, amongst the bushes and Nick Ball’s Suitcase to Heaven, pictured, towering into the treetops. Don’t miss the maze, with a piece by sound artist Sonic Moth at its centre; and keep your ears open for the field recordings by Mike Challis in the ancient chapel. www.bayfieldhallsculpture.com

Hop aboard to say happy birthday

Let nature take its course

RSPB Titchwell Marsh’s Big Weekend promises to be… big. Taking place on 11 and 12 October at the nature reserve, to coincide with the autumn migration and high tides, the two-day event comprises conservation talks, nature walks and birding fun. Special guests include local author Charlie Bingham and Oli Steadman from the indie folk band Stornoway. In addition, the RSPB team will share behind-the-scenes insights, plus there’ll be expert-led guided walks, digiscoping tips and telescope advice, nature-inspired stalls and activities. The weekend will be fundraising to restore Volunteer Marsh, a vital saltmarsh habitat under threat from erosion. www.rspb.org.uk/titchwell

Reap the rewards of harvest

Felbrigg Hall, Gardens and Estate is one of North Norfolk’s gems, layered with history from the 15th century stained glass windows in the Great Hall to the objets in the Cabinet Room amassed on a European ‘Grand Tour’. Between 18 October and 2 November, you’ll want to make a beeline for the kitchen for the Hall at Harvest celebrations. Here, colourful displays will showcase what the garden team have been growing this year, from piles of fruit and veg to pretty dried floral arrangements. Inspired? Head outdoors to see the walled garden for yourself, as well as the 520 acres of woods and waymarked trails. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

This year marks the 50th birthday of North Norfolk Railway (aka the Poppy Line) with the first passenger train running between Sheringham and Holt in 1975. NNR has been celebrating its golden anniversary throughout the year, with more to come. From 25 to 31 October, you can enjoy one return trip behind the renowned steam locomotive 70000 ‘Britannia’, alongside all day travel behind another historic steam engine and aboard the NNR heritage railcar. Or go completely loco at the Fiftieth Finale weekend (1 and 2 November) and explore the line fully with unlimited travel on the four different historic trains running each day. www.nnrailway.co.uk

Flex your mussels

So here we are in mussel season, with ample opportunity to celebrate the mighty mollusc. First stop: the Brancaster Mussel Festival at The White Horse Marshside, Brancaster Staithe. Taking place from 24 to 26 October (midday to 9pm), feast on Thomas Large’s Brancaster Bay Mussels served five ways at the pop-up mussel kitchen, accompanied by Nelson’s Shantymen and Matty Haynes Music. The Dabbling Duck in Great Massingham is hosting a seafood festival on 21 and 22 November (from 5.30pm on Friday and 12pm on Saturday). There’ll be a specially devised menu celebrating all things from the sea (mussels, oysters…) and live music - booking essential. www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk; www.thedabblingduck.co.uk

Golden plover flock, RSPB Titchwell Marsh

North Norfolk Railway © Leigh Caudwell

The kitchen decorated for harvest at Felbrigg Hall © National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Headlining this season…

Who says adults should have all the fun? Whether making magic potions, following seasonal trails or navigating spooky mazes, there’s something for all ages

HOLKHAM’S HALLOWEEN GARDEN

When: 26 to 30 October

What: Have a spookylicious time in the Walled Garden where thrills and chills include storytelling, Halloween crafting, frightful facepainting (select dates), make your own magic potion with the not-so-wicked witches, pumpkin carving, chocolatey treats and more. The question is, do you dare to enter? www.holkham.co.uk

NORWICH THEATRE FAMILY FESTIVAL

When: 27 October to 1 November

What: The fun-packed festival returns, offering free, pay-what-you-can and low-cost interactive workshops, drop-in sessions, sensory activities and shows across Norwich Theatre Café Royal, Norwich Playhouse and Norwich Theatre Stage Two. One day you could be making War Horse puppets, the next twirling in a movement session inspired by Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake.

www.norwichtheatre.org

SAINSBURY CENTRE FOR FAMILIES

When: Various dates

What: The Norwich museum is laying on some serious fun. Why not sign up your little one to the Young Artists’ Studio day on 30 October (7 to 11 years) to make art with an artist? Or how about the Kids in Museums Takeover Day on 21 November (free) to learn about different jobs in museums. And don’t miss Big Sunday on the first Sunday of each month, when families can take part in free creative drop-in activities. www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk

ESCAPE INTO AUTUMN AT OXBURGH ESTATE

When: Until 2 November

What: Follow a discovery trail to unearth the secret lives of the animals that call Oxburgh home as they prepare for winter. Afterwards, venture outside for autumnal activities aplenty, including natural art making and leaf raking, followed by hot chocolates and homemade cake in the cafe.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

THURSFORD’S ADVENTURE PLAY FAIR

When: Fridays to Sundays until October halfterm, when it will be open every day, closing on 2 November

What: The adventure playground of dreams. The 30,000 sq ft outdoor attraction is themed around a vintage fairground with a Helter Skelter, Ferris Wheel, carousel, stalls and a unique organ water play fountain promising hours of excitement. Note: anyone who has purchased tickets to Santa’s Magical Journey or Enchanted Journey of Light can access the Play Fair at an additional rate. www.thursford.com

PUMPKIN PANDEMONIA AT PENSTHORPE

When: 25 October to 2 November

What: Pensthorpe nature reserve, outside Fakenham, promises its biggest and best Pumpkin Festival yet. Alongside a PYO pumpkin patch, little witches and wizards will love the spooky maize maze, scarecrow displays and ghoulish craft sessions. On 30 October, join in the fun after hours (5.45pm to 9.30pm) with food trucks and a fire performer. www.pensthorpe.com

PATCH

IT UP

’Tis the season to pick up a pumpkin

PUMPKIN HOUSE, THURSFORD

Pumpkins plus a maize maze, haybale tower and spooky spell sweet shop; weekends of 11/12 and 18/19 October, then every day from 24 to 31 October. www.pumpkinhouse.co.uk

ALBY PUMPKIN PATCH, ERPINGHAM

Traditional, good value pumpkin picking; weekends of 11/12 and 18/19 October, then every day from 25 to 31 October. Facebook @AlbyPumpkinPatch

CHURCH FARM PUMPKINS, HEACHAM

PYO pumpkins plus a maize maze with spooks and a dog playground; 17 to 31 October, Wednesday to Sunday. Instagram: @church_farm_pumpkins

ALGY’S FARM SHOP, BINTREE

Pick homegrown pumpkins and edible squashes straight from the field; 1 to 31 October.

www.algys.co.uk

SANDRINGHAM ESTATE

Make your own bespoke Pumpkin House; 29 to 31 October, sessions run throughout the day. www.sandringhamestate.co.uk

Holkham’s Halloween Garden © Fisheye Images

Thursford’s Adventure Play Fair © George Browne

Pensthorpe pumpkins © Steve Adams

Alby Pumpkin Patch

Headlining this season…

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

Take four… festive events for your diary

More than 120 singers, dancers, speciality acts and musicians, complete with a 32-piece live orchestra. A 130-foot stage, nonstop singing, dancing, comedy and more. Yes, it’s the dazzling Thursford Christmas Spectacular, back for its 48th production from 8 November to 23 December. This West End quality show welcomes more than 50 coaches each day - audiences travel from across the UK and overseas. In fact, Thursford won Best Christmas Experience for the second consecutive year at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards 2025.

‘We never rest on our laurels and this year’s show is no exception. It is set to be our most magical year yet,’ says George Cushing, Associate Producer. ‘We can’t wait to show our audiences what we’ve been working on.’

www.thursford.com

Steam into Christmas on the North Norfolk Railway’s Norfolk Lights Express from 14 November, with its new ‘Golden Journey’ theme celebrating 50 years of this heritage line. Hauled by an historic steam locomotive with the outside of each carriage decorated with thousands of lights, you’ll see trackside scenery transformed by a series of changing colours, and illuminated installations brought to life by on-board narration and music.

www.nnrailway.co.uk

Festive Holt 2025 promises a weekend of seasonal celebration, kicking off with the town illuminated in a warm white glow on Friday 14 November and late-night shopping until 7pm. Expect lots of activities on Saturday 15th and a Christmas Market on Sunday 16th.

From canine carols to crafting, Christmas at Holkham is always a splendid affair.

‘Holkham Hall by Candlelight’, from 28 November to 30 December, is a real highlight, with State Rooms and the Old Kitchen transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland. Each space has its own magical theme - expect a 14-foot Christmas tree in the Saloon, fairytales, naughty elves, and more.

www.holkham.co.uk

Spotted by Richard Campey

There’s palpable excitement on the North Norfolk coast at this time of year, with the return of pink-footed geese and, given the right conditions - an easterly wind - the chance of wind-blown birds migrating south for the winter being displaced and ending up in woodlands and scrub along our coastline.

Inland, the excitement is a little quieter and on my local patch, I am watching for something out of the ordinary. The goldcrest, our tiniest bird, is a regular sighting and always a joy to see. But each one is worth a second lookbecause just occasionally, that goldcrest may turn out to be its rarer cousin, the firecrest.

Firecrests are also one of our smallest birds, weighing in at just 5 to 7 grams. The face markings will be the first alert, being more striking than a goldcrest with prominent black and white head stripes and crown crests which are more orange in the males and more yellow in the females.

They’re usually found in coniferous woodland, flitting restlessly among the branches in search of insects and spiders. They are quick and elusive, but once seen properly, they are unmistakable. I still remember the thrill of my first encounter with one when I was 16. Having seen countless goldcrests, I was stopped in my tracks by the striking colours of this tiny bird.

That memory fuels my excitement every autumn. As the goldcrests move through, I will be checking each one carefully, hoping that somewhere amongst them, there’s a firecrest.

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

Firecrest © Richard Campey Photography

Thursford Christmas Spectacular

The Norfolk Lights Express © D Ballard Holkham Hall by Candlelight, 2024 © Holkham Estate

ARTIST

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Arts boost for Holt

Anwen Hurt tells Sarah Hardy about an exciting new year-round arts programme for Holt

HOLT is a buzzy, friendly place, with great eating out and retail options and did, for many years, boast a thriving annual arts festival. Organisers took the tough decision to cancel it this year because of increased costs but, as Anwen Hurt - the widow of actor Sir John Hurt - and the festival’s artistic director and one of its trustees, explains, it is all systems go for next year.

Anwen is quick to point out that the initiative, Holt Art Projects, is not a replacement or substitute for the summer festival but rather something new and innovative, which will offer year-round events.

She says: ‘The festival was much loved by us all - people in Holt, holiday makers and the performers themselves. But it became a little bit too much - we are all volunteers - and funding was a real issue, with rising costs.’

The festival, which began in 2009, ran over 10 days in July, and attracted big name artists such as Barbara Dickson and The Zombies, and was regularly attended by up to 3000 people.

But Anwen is now looking forward to fresh challenges, saying: ‘It is very exciting, rather daunting, but exciting. I had had the idea for some time, to plan events throughout the year, and we are now working towards that.’

Around six to eight events are in the process of being planned for next year, rising to eight to 10 the following year. ‘Our first one will be in April to May, late spring, which is such a time

of rebirth and new beginnings. There won’t be something every month, and we will make sure that we don’t clash with other events and activities in the town,’ she says, adding that an announcement is scheduled to be made in the late autumn, detailing the first two events.

Anwen, who was involved in the festival from 2011, hopes to use the same venues as the festival, including outdoor spaces and St Andrew’s Church and the community centre in the town and possibly facilities at Gresham’s School. And she is keen to maintain and expand the variety of shows and performances on offer, saying: ‘I want to bring a wide variety of work, all of a very good quality, to the town.’

‘I want to try and bring some edgy things to Holt, too, to get people out of their comfort zone.’

Anwen Hurt

So think about everything from classical music to contemporary music, poetry and more. ‘I hope that people will attend things that immediately appeal but will also consider giving other things a go - I want to try and bring some edgy things to Holt, too, to get people out of their comfort zone.’

At the heart of the new look offering remains the art awards which have been very popular and successful, with entries from all around the world. They include the Sir John Hurt Art Prize, the

Sworders Art Prize for Young and Emerging Artists and the Charlotte Fraser Ceramics Prize. And there is a new prize, the Helen Herbert Portrait Prize, in memory of the late Helen Herbert who was a big supporter of the festival, up for grabs. The prizes offer cash and exhibition opportunities which are a terrific ‘leg up’ to any aspiring artist.

Anwen, who trained as a concert pianist and was a singer and actress before becoming a film producer and casting director, is also keen to hear from potential sponsors and is looking at longer term financial support including grants. ‘We might look at sponsors on a gig-to-gig basis, too,’ she says. And, just as Holt Festival was, Holt Art Projects is a charity.

While there’s new branding and a new look website in the pipeline, you can keep up to date at www.holtfestival.org

Above: John Hurt judging Holt Festival art prizes © Rodney Smith Left: Robert Fripp performed with Toyah at Holt Festival in 2023

Tel: 01485 525714 Email: hello@joyfulliving.co.uk

The New Barn, Drove Orchards, Thornham, Norfolk PE36 6LS www.joyfulliving.co.uk

making norfolk your home

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

INTERIOR DESIGN

Project management for inspirational interiors

For an appointment call 01328 730989 or email office@burnhaminteriors.co.uk www.burnhaminteriors.co.uk

‘If I was to describe Norfolk in three words? Big-skied, windswept and friendlier-than-isstrictly-necessary. It’s a wonderful community - everyone is lovely.’

Bella Middleton

Bella Middleton © Pete Harbour

East Hall © Wolterton Hall

Norfolk Natural Living perfumery, Holt © Pete Harbour

Colin Rawlings, owner of The Red Dot Gallery

Holkham Beach © Ian Watts

A seal trip to Blakeney Point with Beans Boats

Bella Middleton’s guide to North Norfolk

The founder of Norfolk Natural Living, the wellbeing and homewares brand which has stores in Wellsnext-the-Sea, Holt and beyond, talks to Harriet Cooper about evocative scents, slowing down and the shops she can never resist

The Gunton Arms is both wildly glamorous and completely down-toearth, somewhere you can eat chips while contemplating a Tracey Emin. I normally go in winter - there’s nothing like venison from the park cooked over an open fire (www.theguntonarms.co.uk). I also like Sculthorpe Mill, where the food is clever without being fussy (www.sculthorpemill.uk), The Ship in Brancaster (www.theshipbrancaster.uk) and The Harnser in Cley feels like a secret you stumble upon (www.cleyharnser.co.uk). I also love Titchwell Manor, which is perched on the edge of land and sea (www. titchwellmanor.com). Of course, sometimes only Eric’s Fish and Chips will do - perfectly fried, eaten by the sea (www.ericsfishandchips.com).

For a cosy drink, I’ll go to The Hero at Burnham Overy Staithe with its wood fires and dogs curled under tables. It’s the ideal autumnal snug, a place where you intend to stop for one and three hours later you’re still happily installed (www.theheroburnhamovery.co.uk).

I think the happiest I am is with a paper bag from Bread Source at Wolterton Hall. Their croissants and pains au chocolat are the real deal (www.bread-source.co.uk). Then there’s Two Magpies Bakery [in Holt, Wells-next-the-Sea and Blakeney], where you pop in to buy a sourdough and stagger out with cinnamon buns, sausage rolls, a lemon tart and the vague sense that you’ve lost control (www.twomagpiesbakery.co.uk). If I’m hosting, I call The Hampstead Kitchen - everyone at my table ends up beaming and full (www.thehampsteadkitchen.com).

Cromer crab is sweet, delicate and quintessentially Norfolk. I’ll buy it from Gurneys in Burnham Market where they do dressed crabs, smoked fish and shellfish - brown bread, a squeeze of lemon and you’re transported to the coast (www.gurneysfishshop.co.uk).

Shops I like to browse? I have to begin with Norfolk Natural Living. Our perfumeries in Holt and Wells-next-the-Sea are filled with handmade perfumes, candles, pillow mists and body lotions; there’s also our Utility and Miscellaneous store for things that are practical and beautiful. I’m fiercely proud of the shops and of the brilliant women who run them (www.norfolknaturalliving.com). Anna in Holt and Burnham Market is heaven for clothes (www.shopannastore.com). Joyful Living at Drove Orchards is a dangerous place for me, I walk in with the innocent intention of ‘just browsing’ and leave with an armful of homewares (www. joyfulliving.co.uk). For children, Nippers of Norfolk is full of whimsy and charm (www.nippersofnorfolk.co.uk).

I adore Pinkfoot Gallery in Cley-next-the-Sea, which always has something that stops you in your tracks (www.pinkfootgallery.co.uk). And I

can never resist The Red Dot Gallery in Holt. You wander in for the art and you stay for Colin [the owner] who is one of the best conversationalists (www.thereddotgallery.com). Wolterton Hall is another favourite. At the moment it’s hosting ‘Sea State’ by Maggi Hambling and Ro Robertson, huge works that make you feel like you’ve swallowed the North Sea in one gulp (www.wolterton.co.uk).

I’ve fallen for the stretch of Norfolk Coast Path from Wells-next-theSea to Blakeney. Past the bright beach huts, it’s salt marshes, creeks and skies so wide you feel like the world’s been stretched (www.nationaltrail. co.uk). Also, Shouldham Woods are beautiful and the King’s Arms does a Sunday lunch that is frankly worth moving for. Walk first, roast potatoes after = happiness (www.kingsarmsshouldham.co.uk).

In the season, Mannington Hall is my sanctuary. The moat, the roses, the hush of the gardens, there’s a timelessness that makes you slow down and remember what matters (www.mannington.co.uk). Also, the walled garden at Houghton Hall is glorious in summer (www.houghtonhall.com) and I love the walks that weave through Sandringham Estate (www.sandringhamestate.co.uk).

The scents that most evoke Norfolk to me are salt air, pine woods, woodsmoke in autumn and the soft sweetness of hedgerow blackberries. The smell of rain on sand, too, which is a very Norfolk thing, weather arriving sideways, soaking everyone to the skin, and somehow making the day better for it.

My favourite beach has to be Holkham. You begin under the towering pines before it suddenly opens onto that astonishing sweep of sand. It’s cinematic, endlessly wild and different every time you go. It also happens to be the place that inspired our Coastal Walks perfume.

Norfolk is a giant playground for children. Mine have always adored the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, the tiniest steam train that feels like a grand adventure (www.wwlr.co.uk). On a bigger scale, the Bure Valley Railway makes for a great day out (www.bvrw.co.uk). We love the seal trips from Morston; nothing beats watching the pups lolling about on the sandbanks.

If I was to describe Norfolk in three words? Big-skied, windswept and friendlier-than-is-strictly-necessary. It’s a wonderful communityeveryone is lovely.

www.norfolknaturalliving.com

The Ship, Brancaster © Patricia Tobin

I Saw The Sparks Fly Upward’ by Carol Saunderson, Pinkfoot Gallery

Our round-up of where to get your culture fix this season

Hot tickets

Face the music

THURSDAYS @3

The autumn programme of these weekly Thursday at 3pm concerts at Cley Church continues until 18 December, including ‘Gilbert & Sullivan: An Indulgence’ on 16 October and ‘Old & New: Music for bassoon and flute’ on 6 November. The concerts, performed by mainly local musicians and run by Friends of Cley Church, are free, but donations are requested. Email wejearp@gmail.com for more details. www.glavenvalleychurches.org.uk

THE WORLD OF GILBERT & SULLIVAN

The Wandering Minstrels will sing, act and dance their way through many of the Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, from HMS Pinafore and The Pirates of Penzance to The Mikado, at Sheringham Little Theatre on 18 October at 7.30pm. This concert of Savoy classics will be staged in period costume and performed in the traditional style. Book at www. sheringhamlittletheatre.com www.wanderingminstrels.org.uk

THE HISTORY OF OASIS AND BEYOND

Tribute band Oasish, who have performed at Wembley Stadium and Knebworth, will be stopping off at the Princess Theatre, Hunstanton on 18 October at 7.30pm. Charting ‘The Rise’, ‘The Rift’ and ‘The Reunion’ of Oasis, the show is narrated on screen by Terry Christian from Channel 4’s The Word. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

THE BUDAPEST CAFE ORCHESTRA

With 15 albums to their name, this quartet plays gypsy and folk-flavoured music, combining violin, guitar, accordion, double bass, saz, balalaika, domra and percussion. They’re coming to Wells Maltings on 18 October at 7.30pm, following their sell-out concert at the venue in spring 2024. www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

WOMEN IN ROCK HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

Get set for a journey through five decades of the world’s greatest female rock legends on 25 October from 7.30pm at the Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, in a show which pays homage to artists such as Suzi Quatro, Tina Turner, Cher and Blondie. With its great vocals, choreography and slick costumes, you’re sure to end up singing and dancing along! www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

I WAS GLAD!

King’s Lynn Festival Chorus will open their new season on 1 November at 7pm, celebrating the rich tradition of the English anthem. With Parry’s coronation anthem I was glad! at its heart, the programme will also feature Elgar’s Benedictus and S.S. Wesley’s Ascribe unto the Lord. The venue is St Nicholas’ Chapel, King’s Lynn, and music director Ben Horden will conduct. Tickets from www. kingslynncornexchange.co.uk www.kingslynnfestivalchorus.co.uk

King’s Lynn Festival Chorus

© Matthew Johnson

The Budapest Cafe Orchestra © R Mack Photography

Women in Rock © mark@markellisphotography.co.uk

Arts & Culture

Face the music

ILYA KONDRATIEV RECITAL

This critically acclaimed pianist will perform at St Botolph’s Church, Trunch, on 8 November from 7.30pm, with the programme including sonatas by Liszt and Bach-Basoni Chaconne. Ilya performs extensively as a soloist and chamber music player at venues such as the Palace of Arts in Budapest. www.trunchconcerts.com

MALTA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

On their first visit to Norwich, this orchestra will perform classical favourites at the Theatre Royal on 9 November from 7.30pm. Enjoy Mozart’s Magic Flute Overture, Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2, for which they’ll be joined by soloist Freddy Kempf, and Tchaikovsky’s magnificent Fifth Symphony. www.norwichtheatre.org

BEETHOVEN & BACH

Sheringham & Cromer

Choral Society will perform Beethoven’s Mass in C and Bach’s cantata Wachet Auf BWV 140 directed by David Ballard, with a chamber orchestra and four soloists at St Peter’s Church, Sheringham on 15 November at 4pm. Tickets from www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com www.sheringhamandcromerchoral.org.uk

THE AFRICAN CHOIR OF NORFOLK

Curtain up

Directed by Anna Mudeka, this choir will celebrate its 5th anniversary with a gala performance at Norwich Playhouse on 15 November at 7.30pm featuring music, storytelling and new compositions. It’s a highlight of The Autumn Festival of Norfolk (which is celebrating its 15th anniversary year; www.autumnfestivalofnorfolk.org). www.norwichtheatre.org

FAIRYTALES

Step into a world of enchantment at the opening concert of Norfolk Symphony Orchestra’s 50th anniversary season on 16 November at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, at 3.30pm. From Hisaishi’s Merry-GoRound of Life and Cave of Mind from Howl’s animated film Moving Castle to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and Josef Suk’s Pohádka, the concert will be conducted by NSO’s new musical director, Tadeusz Kaznowski. Tickets from www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk www.nso-uk.co.uk

KERRY GODLIMAN: BANDWIDTH

Comedian, actor, writer, podcaster and broadcaster Kerry Godliman returns to the stage with a new stand-up show and it’s coming to King’s Lynn Corn Exchange on 10 October at 7.30pm. Think parenting teenagers, knicker admin, a lost mum bag, and her memory outsourced to her phone! www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

POSTING LETTERS TO THE MOON

Learn more about Celia Johnson’s experiences filming Brief Encounter and life during the Second World War in this reading of letters between the actress and her husband Peter Fleming (brother of James Bond creator Ian), during his postings to India and the Far East. The letters will be read by the couple’s daughter Lucy Fleming and her husband Simon Williams, at Sheringham Little Theatre on 12 October from 7.30pm. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com

TITANIC - THE MUSICAL

The King’s Lynn Players will bring their latest show to King’s Lynn Corn Exchange from 12 to 15 November (nightly at 7.30pm, plus a Saturday matinee). An amateur production of this Tony Award-winning musical, it tells the stories of passengers and crew.

www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

Sheringham & Cromer Choral Society © Paul Hurst, all rights reserved

The African Choir of Norfolk

‘You Take The Blame’ by Emily Woodard, Art Fair East

Logan Petterson-Cooper playing Frederick Barrett, Titanic - The Musical

Make for an exhibition

INSPIRED BY NATURE: MARY, MARIA, MARIANNE

This installation by renowned artist Rebecca Stevenson features three imagined portrait busts of pioneering women in art and science: Mary Delany (1710-1788), Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717) and Marianne North (1830-1890). Each made extraordinary contributions to botany and science, recording plants and insects at a time when it was difficult for women to receive formal training in art or science. The exhibition in Blickling’s Long Gallery continues until 22 October. It also features the Hall’s copy of Merian’s Dissertation sur la génération et les transformations des insectes de Surinam (1726), on public display for the first time. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling

MAY THE TOYS BE WITH YOU

Lynn Museum has gone galactic with this showcase of one of the UK’s finest collections of vintage Star Wars toys and original cinema posters, from 1977 to 1985, owned by Matt Fox. The exhibition, which continues until 30 May 2026, includes life-size storm troopers, so be on your best behaviour!

www.lynnmuseum.norfolk.gov.uk

BIRDSCAPES’ 20TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION

Congratulations to this Glandford-based wildlife art gallery, whose 20th Anniversary Exhibition begins on 11 October at noon. It will be opened by local naturalist and author Nick Acheson. Painters, printmakers and sculptors from all over the UK who have worked with the gallery

Talk the talk

RORY CLEMENTS IN CONVERSATION WITH CONN IGGULDEN

These two Sunday Times bestselling authors will discuss Rory Clements’ latest novel Evil in High Places, a thriller set in 1936 Munich, on 9 October. Join them at St Andrew’s Church in Holt at 7pm at this event organised by The Holt Bookshop. www.tickettailor.com/events/ theholtbookshop

over the two decades, have been invited to contribute work that reflects the diversity of styles and techniques which they use. Popular ceramicist Karen Fawcett will demonstrate how she makes her birds and mammals in clay on 18 October, as part of the celebrations. The exhibition continues until 2 November. www.birdscapes.co.uk

CROMER OPEN

Cromer’s Artspace on the Prom is hosting the fifth Cromer Open exhibition from 15 to 31 October, featuring new contemporary works in all media by artists from East Anglia, the UK and Europe. Much of the work will be for sale. Why not head on over for ‘artists in conversation’ on 25 October at 5pm, where you can meet some of the participating creatives. www.cromer-artspace.uk

WINTER WARMERS

Thornham Village Hall’s new season of monthly Winter Warmers talks and suppers kicks off on 10 October with ‘Leading Change’ with sports

leader Baroness Campbell at 7pm. The series - which runs until February 2026will also feature Charlie Bingham, author of The Life-Affirming Magic of Birds, on 14 November and China expert Professor Kerry Brown on 12 December. www.thornhamvillagehall.co.uk

WE’RE STILL HERE

Local authors, poets and raconteurs Gary Powell and Jon Platten will host an evening of stories and poems reflecting on their cancer survival journeys on 11 October at 7pm, at Sheringham Community Centre. The event will raise funds for Cromer Cancer Support Centre via the Norfolk & Norwich Hospitals Charity and The Healing Harbour, a local charity which provides palliative care.

register.enthuse.com/ps/ event/werestillhere

A SANDRINGHAM MYSTERY

By the Book is hosting the launch of local author Andrew Ogden’s novel Wrong Body: A

ART FAIR EAST

The region’s largest contemporary art fair returns to The Assembly House in Norwich from 6 to 9 November. Expect more than 1000 artworks from local, national and international established and emerging artists, with artists and gallerists on hand to chat to visitors. There will be works for sale throughout, from affordable art to investment pieces. www.artfaireast.com

JAMES MCCALLUM: RECENT PAINTINGS

Local wildlife artist James McCallum’s annual exhibition will be held at West Barn Gallery, Great Walsingham Barns, on 15, 16, 22 and 23 November, featuring more that 60 original paintings, prints and books. James’ watercolours are all made en plein air on location in North Norfolk, with the weather regularly leaving its mark on the paintings in the form of rain speckles or even ice crystals. Birds in their habitats will predominate, including pink-footed and brent geese, and some of the region’s specialist winter birds like Holkham’s shore larks, but other wildlife such as hares will also feature.

www.jamesmccallum.co.uk

Sandringham Mystery on 15 November from 11am to 1pm at their Write around the Corner premises in Hunstanton. Enjoy a meet and greet with the author who’ll also be signing copies. Find them on Facebook

DISCOVERING NORFOLK’S PILGRIM ROUTES

Andy Bull will discuss his recent book Norfolk’s Pilgrim Routes: A History of Paths, Places and People at Binham Memorial Hall on 21 November at 7.30pm. Tickets for the talk, organised by Friends of Binham Priory (which was on the pilgrim route to Walsingham), will be available from 24 October.

www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

Visit websites for ticket prices and any booking requirements

‘Clay Church Owl’ by Karen Fawcett, BIRDscapes Gallery

‘Hares Weybourne’ by James McCallum

Charlie Bingham

Arts & Culture

On stage

There’s something for all ages and tastes at the area’s theatres this autumn, says Sarah Hardy

Hamilton Theatre Royal, Norwich

It’s the big one! This smash hit musical runs until 25 October as part of its national tour. We meet Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the American Revolutionary War and helped shape how America looks today. Expect plenty of hip hop music mixed with jazz, blues and rap, and themes of ambition, revolution and legacy in this large-scale production which lasts almost three hours.

www.norwichtheatre.org

Journey to the Centre of the Earth Westacre Theatre, West Acre Lamphouse presents Journey to the Centre of the Earth on 1 November. The theatre company is known for its comic take on classic tales so expect plenty of belly laughs as we meet two intrepid explorers and one impossible mission. It features Tom Fox and Becky Owen-Fisher who promise catchy songs, daft costumes, silly jokes and more. Sounds fun!

www.westacretheatre.com

Annie Sheringham Little Theatre

The Nutcracker King’s Lynn Corn Exchange

The Imperial Classical Ballet brings this delightfully traditional ballet to Lynn on 3 November. Featuring a live orchestra, it tells of snow flurries, sweets, princes, magic and love and Tchaikovsky’s classic score includes the Waltz of the Flowers and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. There’s very much an emphasis on technique, with the dancers known for their precision and attention to detail, and is a perfect treat for all ages.

www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

Opera Boys: A Night at the Musicals

Princess Theatre, Hunstanton

This four-strong harmony group returns on 12 October after a sell-out show last year and promises more of the same! Whether you like modern day smash hits like Mamma Mia and

Wicked, prefer the old school favourites from Gershwin or just love timeless classics including Les Mis and Phantom of the Opera, this show will deliver. The singers include Rob Cherry, Michael Storrs, Richard Colvin and Colin Bryce and they all have very impressive track records, from being backing singers to Elton John to appearing on Eurovision! www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

The Sheringham Shantymen

The Pavilion Theatre, Cromer

It’s the 10th annual show here of this muchloved group of singers who perform on 26 October. Called Sails of the Unexpected, musical director Brian Farrow promises the usual mix of traditional numbers with a few surprises along the way, too. Cash raised goes to various local charities and it’s always a fun evening - with the chance to join in. The Shantymen, known as Norfolk’s oldest boy band, started to sing together in 1988 and now perform all over the country as well as making regular trips abroad. www.cromerpier.co.uk

Lorefolk

The Maltings, Wells-next-the-Sea

Sheringham Little Theatre Players present the feelgood musical, Annie, from 8 to 11 October. Follow the spirited Annie on her journey to escape scary and unkind Miss Hannigan and find her a new family with Oliver Warbucks, a very wealthy American industrialist. Expect hit numbers such as Tomorrow, It’s The HardKnock Life and Maybe - all terrific songs which could easily see you shed a tear or two! SLT Players always do a great job and this should be no exception.

www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com

Katie-anna Whiting, founder of The Whiting’s on the Wall production company, brings her one-woman show, Lorefolk, to Wells on 23 October. The show celebrates East Anglia’s folktales from Bungay’s Black Shuck to the less well known Hibbledibibs of Sheringham, which have all been collected from local residents. There’s an original score, shadow imagery, and a post-show ‘chinwag’, where audiences can swap their own memories and stories, too.

www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

• Visit websites for ticket prices, timings and to book.

Hamilton tour: Marley Fenton (Alexander Hamilton) and Company. Photo by Danny Kaan

The Nutcracker © joenobilephotography.com

The Sheringham Shantymen

Fatherhood explored in Norwich Theatre’s Creative Matters season

Norwich Theatre is dedicating a mini season to fatherhood as part of its tenth Creative Matters season, The Shape of Family

Creative Matters: The Shape of Family reflects the vast spectrum of experiences that make up modern families today and will use a mixture of performances, film, workshops, and art to stimulate discussion and make connections through creativity. The mini season (The Shape of Family: Fatherhood) running from 11 Oct – 8 Nov will have a specific focus on the complexities of fatherhood.

Elspeth Hunter, Creative Engagement Project Manager at Norwich Theatre, said: “With the strong evidence of how children benefit from positive fathering, it’s important that men have spaces to explore, listen and reflect on what it means to be a dad in the world today.”

The Shape of Family: Fatherhood begins with a screening of How’s Your Father (11 Oct), a powerful theatre show based on real-life accounts from academic research. The show was a collaboration between The University of East Anglia, local theatre maker Simon Floyd, local charity Menscraft, and Norfolk County Council. The show tells the stories of four men and their encounters with authority, raising different questions about what it means to be a father. The audience is invited to a post-show Q&A discussion.

On 1 Nov, the programme continues with a free screening of the 2014 film Boyhood. Comedian Joe Wells will bring a unique perspective to the stage with his show, Daddy Autism (2 Nov), at Norwich Theatre Playhouse.

This autumn, audiences will be wowed as Northern Ballet’s spellbinding Merlin – an epic adventure of hope, heartache, love and magic, heads to Norwich Theatre Royal between 12 – 15 Nov. We sat down with Northern Ballet’s Kevin Poeung to find out what makes this production so enchanting.

Tell us a bit about you and how you became a dancer?

Poet and father Dr. Ashley HicksonLovence will lead Writing through Fatherhood (6 Nov), a creative writing workshop designed for dads.

On 8 Nov, Man Alive Theatre will host The Life of Dads, an interactive workshop offering participants the opportunity for self-reflection and exploration by using drama techniques.

The Shape of Family: Fatherhood season is supported by partners UEA and MensCraft.

Dr Georgia Philip, School of Social Work, University of East Anglia, said: “As academics, we want our research to make a difference in the world, and using theatre and storytelling is such a powerful way to do that. The topic of fatherhood is relevant and emotive for all of us, and we need ways of exploring it that challenge assumptions, raise expectations, and better support men’s parenting.”

For Elspeth, the season The Shape of Family: Fatherhood is about challenging assumptions. “The season is a vital opportunity for fathers, and everyone who cares about them, to engage with these issues head-on. By attending a screening, joining a workshop, or simply starting a conversation, we can all contribute to a world where fathers are fully recognised and where parenting is shared more equally.”

My name is Kevin Poeung, I am a leading soloist with Northern Ballet, and I play the title role of Merlin. I started dancing at the age of 4 when my parents decided that it would be good for me to put my energy into dancing. My mum always wanted to become a ballerina but never could, so I am glad I have made it happen.

You danced this role for its premiere in 2021. What was your reaction when you originally found out you’d be playing the lead role of Merlin? It was very special to create the lead role of Merlin. It is not every day you get to have an iconic character created on you, so I am very grateful. Drew McOnie is a dream to work with. He is such a humble, talented person which made the process a breeze.

There is lots of magic and illusion in the show – do you have a favourite moment to perform?

The whole show is filled with amazing moments that make you ask yourself ‘how could they have possibly done that’. I would say that my favourite moment would be the scene where I am showing my anger with a fire ball which looks like I am throwing it about the stage, but there is a whole illusion behind it that unfortunately I can’t reveal.

How do you get into character before you go on stage? Do you have any pre-show rituals?

I don’t really have any rituals, apart from maybe having a power nap before putting my make up on. I also do a short barre to warmup before the show.

visit norwichtheatre.org

Culture club: Norwich’s thriving arts scene

When it comes to arts and culture, this fine city is going from strength to strength, striking the perfect pitch between the historic and the contemporary. Whether you want to learn more about its Norman inhabitants at the redeveloped Castle Keep, contemplate life’s big questions in the Sainsbury Centre or hit the books at the country’s only contemporary literature house, Norwich’s cultural creativity runs deep, says Harriet Cooper

For Norman treasures and battlement views

Norwich Castle

Norwich Castle is one of the finest examples of a medieval royal palace in Europe, built by William the Conqueror and his sons - William and Henry - as a display of power and prosperity. But that’s not the only reason to go; a justcompleted multi-million-pound redevelopment has completely transformed the visitor experience. For the first time ever, all five floors of the Keep, from the basement to the battlements, are accessible. Its 900-year history has been brought to life, too, with original rooms reopened (including the roof with farstretching city views), new exhibits and immersive storytelling.

Furnishings and furniture are faithfully recreated, floor-to-ceiling audio-visual projections on the walls depict 12th century characters and you’re invited to sit on a throne, dress up like a Norman noble or simply wander round, enjoying the grandeur. Highlights include a specially commissioned Norwich Friends Tapestry, a 19-metre-long hand-embroidered extension of the Bayeux Tapestry, and the Gallery of Medieval Life, developed in partnership with the British Museum to showcase of-the-era artefacts and treasures. www.norwichcastle.norfolk.gov.uk

For historic architecture and contemporary sculpture

Norwich Cathedral

The city’s Castle Keep isn’t the only exciting new cultural development in the city - Norwich Cathedral has a surprise in store, too. Once you’ve admired the lofty height of its Romanesque roof, its vast Caen stone arcades and the carved medieval bosses, you need to head outside. Not just for the elegant spire (the second tallest in the country, complete with a golden weathercock and resident peregrine falcons), but also to catch ‘Art in the Close’.

This new free sculpture exhibition runs until Spring 2026, which will see the Cathedral Close become the setting for a mix of works by artists Lynn Chadwick and John Maine, including Chadwick’s steel work ‘Sitting Figures, 1989’, in the Lower Close and Maine’s striking abstract sculptures in Almary Green. The exhibition is the brainchild of the Dean of Norwich, the Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, who was keen to host contemporary art in a historic setting to inspire visitors and underscore the Cathedral’s rich history of celebrating the arts. www.cathedral.org.uk

The projections in The Great Hall at Norwich Castle Keep tell the story of life in the medieval period © Norfolk Museums Service Norwich Castle Keep by night © Norfolk Museums Service

‘Definition in Five Parts’ by John Maine, Norwich Cathedral © Bill Smith

Arts & Culture

For world-class art and thought-provoking programming Sainsbury Centre

The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts is a must-see for many reasons. The genre-defying museum - designed by Sir Norman Foster, his first major public building - houses the extraordinary collection of Sir Robert and Lady Lisa Sainsbury, spanning prehistory to the present day. You might spy Tang dynasty figurines next to a Francis Bacon, an Egyptian carved hippo from 1880BC locking eyes with Alberto Giacometti’s ‘Standing Woman’.

Keen to make the museum as interesting and accessible as possible, its Director Jago Cooper has introduced a unique exhibition programme, with a series of six-month seasons exploring one big question. Currently it’s ‘Can We Stop Killing Each Other?’ with exhibitions exploring the nature of violence and conflict through art, film and culture. And don’t miss the alfresco Sculpture Park, which stretches across the UEA’s campus and is peppered with works by everyone from Henry Moore to Sir Antony Gormley and Elisabeth Frink. Tickets operate on a ‘Pay If and What You Can’ basis. www.sainsburycentre.ac.uk

For stage stars and fringe performers Norwich Theatre

Norwich Theatre comprises not one but three sites in the city - Theatre Royal, Theatre Playhouse and Theatre Stage Two. The Royal is the largest, seating 1300 people; opened for the first time in 1758, it’s been the go-to for Norwich’s culture vultures for centuries. The annual pantomime is always a showstopper; this Christmas, get your buckets and spades at the ready for Cinderella but with a beachy twist. Throughout the rest of the year, expect some of the biggest names and productions in touring theatre.

The Playhouse is a 10-minute walk away, a former maltings that’s now an intimate 300-person venue showing comedy, dance, international music, fringe, drama and some great children’s plays (kids will love Dr Seuss’ The Cat In The Hat from 11 to 21 December). The Playhouse Bar is the ideal place for a post-performance debrief. Finally, Stage Two is the newest addition, a 120-seat studio theatre space that’s a creative hub-meets-rehearsal studio.

www.norwichtheatre.org

For musical talent and laughs aplenty Norwich Arts Centre

Behind the glorious flint facade of the Grade I-listed St Swithin’s, it’s a hive of activity - the church is now a contemporary multi-arts venue, delivering an alternative programme of new music, theatre, comedy, live art and dance since 1980. The indie venue has charitable status and its ethos is simple: to support and nurture emerging multi-disciplinary talent. Indeed, were you to have visited in the 80s and 90s, you might have danced along to bands including Nirvana, Oasis, Muse, Coldplay, Kasabian and The Manic Street Preachers.

After a refurb in 1999, the NAC continued to be a hotbed for young talent - Russell Howard, The Mighty Boosh and Josie Long have all taken to the mic - and to this day it continues to bring a multi-layered, culturally diverse programme of performance to the city. The buzzing bar has a focus on locality, serving Adnams and Wildcraft beers, Norwich-made Norfolk Raider Cider, Norfolk Gin and coffee sourced from Strangers Coffee Company. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

For storytelling and collaborative creativity National Centre for Writing

Norwich’s literary connections have long been a gripping tale - the city was home to writers as far back as the 14th century, when Dame Julian wrote Revelations of Divine Love, the earliest surviving book in the English language by a woman (as an aside, do swing by The Julian Shrine on Rouen Road; www.julianshrine.org). Since then, everyone from Kazuo Ishiguro and Ian McEwan to Anna Sewell and Sarah Perry have found inspiration here. Indeed, in 2012, Norwich was named as England’s first UNESCO City of Literature, in recognition of its literary heritage and creative drive.

So it seems only fitting that it is home to the National Centre for Writing, a contemporary literature house committed to ‘the transformative power of stories’. Housed in the magnificent medieval Dragon Hall on King Street, the Centre offers a year-round programme of collaborations, events, festivals, residencies and activities for readers, writers and translators of any age, from mentoring sessions with authors and book quizzes to drop-in writing workshops and ‘How To Write Romantic Fiction’ courses. www.nationalcentreforwriting.org.uk

The Sainsbury Centre Sculpture Park © Andy Crouch

Norwich Theatre Royal

Norwich Arts Centre © Norfolk County Council

National Centre for Writing © Luke Witcomb

BENEATH BROODING SKIES

Above: Two horses, one moment of quiet connection. In graphite pencil, Janna explores the gentle language of touch and trust between kindred spirits.

DUEL AMIDST GATHERING STORMS

Left: Wild stallions rear and clash beneath a turbulent sky, their power mirrored in the brewing storm. This graphite study captures a fleeting moment of untamed force — where nature’s tempest meets the raw will of the wild. Graphite on toned paper capturing the raw power and grace of wild horses.

James McCallum – Recent Paintings

15th – 16th & 22nd – 23rd November (weekends only) 11am – 4pm West Barn Gallery, Great Walsingham Barns, NR22 6DR originals, prints and books www.jamesmccallum.co.uk email@jamesmccallum.co.uk

In the picture

From seascapes and shell art to still life and sculpture, there’s much to enjoy on the local gallery scene this autumn. Amanda Loose gets a preview…

LET’S start in Cromer, where The Gallery Norfolk (www.thegallerynorfolk.co.uk) will show paintings by Norfolk-based artist Sam Robbins, from 4 to 18 October. Sam, who lives in Mundesley, is passionate about the North Norfolk coast, often creating his works at dawn and dusk so they capture the dramatic skies and coastline when the lines soften and colours change. Later in the month, the gallery will exhibit new paintings by Chris Ross Williamson, whose works all feature a Jack Russell called Barton Darcy and his owner, Garfield. These quietly humorous story-telling paintings come with a simple ditty on the back - a four-line poem about the world as Barton Darcy sees it. We’re heading inland to Thorpe Market, where Janna Cossettini (www.decklededge. co.uk) is back in her studio after showcasing two works - ‘Arabian with Peonies’ and ‘Arabian with Anemone’ - at the Norfolk & Norwich Art Circle’s 209th exhibition in September. She’s since unveiled the newly completed ‘Beneath Brooding Skies’, a graphite pencil drawing capturing a moment of connection between two horses, and ‘Snipe and Woodcock - Side-by-Side and Skyward.’

She tells me: ‘I don’t have to go far, just walk out my front door and there’s always inspiration for my art. Wild deer nibbling on new grass shoots, pheasants, partridge, ducks and geese flying overhead, and those bouncing bolting hares!’

You can visit Janna’s studio by appointment (0800 7710771); expect to see an extensive collection of original art plus giclée limited-edition fine art prints. Up in Sheringham, Sanders & Christie Gallery’s (www. sandersandchristie.co.uk)

‘Seascape’ exhibition runs until the end of November, featuring coastal paintings and new limited-edition prints by Michael Sanders and Jonathan Sanders, plus

joyful seaside prints by our high summer front cover artist, Samuel Thomas. There’ll also be Norfolk shoreline linocuts from Louise Stebbing and this issue’s cover artist Joanna Padfield; sea-themed ceramics by Peter Deans and Cat Santos; coastal wildlife raku by Mary Wyatt; watercolours of Norfolk beaches by Davie Howes; resin seascapes by Richard Baker, and more.

Meet artist Cate Swinfen at the gallery on 8 November on the opening day of her exhibition (on until the end of December), where she’ll paint a new oil on board and talk about her work and techniques.

Below:

Above: ‘The Great Wave Off Happisburgh’ by Chris Ross Williamson, showing at The Gallery Norfolk from 25 October to 8 November

Right: ‘Arabian With Anemone’ by Janna Cossettini

‘A Sea Breeze’ by Michael Sanders, Sanders & Christie Gallery

Arts & Culture

There’s much to see at Pinkfoot Gallery in Cley (www.pinkfootgallery.co.uk) this autumn. ‘On the Coast’, an exhibition of new work by Daniel Cole and Rachel Lockwood opens on 1 October, with Daniel’s landscapes featuring Burnham Overy Staithe, Holkham and Wells and Rachel’s very large landscapes based from her home in Cley.

Also on the walls are classics by Peter Wileman, along with his recent smaller works - oil collages on paper behind glass - and new paintings by Carol Saunderson, whose inspiration comes from daily walks in the countryside. And having vowed to stop ceramics and concentrate on bronzes, Anthony Theakston couldn’t resist and has been back in his studio working on contemporary white ceramic sculptures, including the new ‘Bastion V’.

There’s exciting news from artist Antonia Clare (www.antonia-clare.com). She’s just opened her second studio gallery, in Glandford, next door to the Allen Hall Gallery. Although this space will be used primarily for studio days and running workshops and courses, you’ll also be able to see her new collection of still life paintings (it’s currently open Tuesdays, Thursdays and by appointment). Antonia’s gallery at Chapel Yard in Holt will continue to exhibit her work, alongside a monthly guest artist.

Over on Holt’s Fish Hill, there’s a selection of new pieces on show from artist Becky Munting at The Red Dot Gallery (www.thereddotgallery. com). Becky specialises in icon style paintings of both birds and dogs, her hallmark being the gold blocking that surrounds each subject. Elegant hounds and familiar British birds are her favoured subjects, with the use of the gold giving each piece a distinctive glow!

Across town, there’s still time to see Bircham Gallery’s ‘Shades of Autumn’ exhibition (www. birchamgallery.co.uk) if you get your skates on, exploring tint, tone and shade. It continues until 8 October, with work by artists including Jane Human, Anna Perlin and Fiona Millais, alongside ceramics by John Pollex. From 11 October to 5 November, the gallery will be filled with carved and painted wooden sculptures of fish and fabulous creatures by Max Tannahill, from small, individual flat fish to four-metrelong installations of shoals of fish swimming alongside boat remnants which are hung from chains. Christmas will kick off on 8 November, with the first of two varied collections for the festive season.

August brought fine art photographer Katha Wood’s latest release, ‘Freedom’, to the Big Picture Gallery (www.kathawood. com) in Holt’s Lees Yard. It now sits alongside ‘Contemplation’, Katha’s signature piece which has been on tour with her and by her side since her inaugural show in Spain in 2023. Both pieces, photography printed directly onto aluminium, are part of a mini-series she’s been working on called ‘Inner Child’ with one more piece to be released in 2026.

Talking of shows, Katha will be exhibiting at Saatchi’s The Other Art Fair in October, Art Fair East in Norwich in November and then the Manchester Art Fair. Back in Holt, the Big Picture Gallery is currently open on Fridays and

Saturdays.

We’re Great Walsingham Barns bound, where despite the changing seasons, the West Barn Gallery is hanging on to summer, thanks to Sarah Caswell’s (www.sarahcaswell. co.uk) beautiful botanical paintings. Her 2025 collection is on show, including pieces exhibited at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with new work waiting in the wings for the gallery’s hotly anticipated annual winter exhibition at the end of November.

In addition to the usual autumnal updates to gallery favourites, Heather Green at neighbouring Walsingham Gallery & Framing (www.walsinghamgalleryandframing.co.uk) has persuaded Simon Woodthorpe of Jumbletique to join them. She tells me: ‘His artistically restored furniture is a joy. He re-imagines solid wood, period furniture and by employing, for instance, classic Italian renaissance techniques, transforms them into statement pieces for today’.

‘Cloud Study 114 Sea Lavender’ by Rachel Lockwood, Pinkfoot Gallery ‘Always On My Mind’ by Antonia Clare

‘Tyto Alba On Gold’ by Becky Munting, The Red Dot Gallery

‘Porthole Whales’ by Max Tannahill, Bircham Gallery

‘Stepping Into Tenderness’ by Sarah Caswell

Left: ‘Freedom 2025’ by Katha Wood, Big Picture Gallery

Below: Indian Jali cupboard, reclaimed antique teak, finished in fusion mineral Laurentian green by Simon Woodthorpe, Walsingham Gallery & Framing

ART EXHIBITION

October 4th, 5th and 6th

Brancaster Staithe Village Hall 10am - 5pm

@juditussaud

Judi paints North Norfolk scenes both realistic and impressionistic, using mostly oils. Her paintings can be seen on Instagram, at Hive at Creake Abbey, North Creake, and at Norfolk Living, Burnham Market.

Arts & Culture

Meanwhile, TJ Adam Silversmith (www. tjadamsilversmith. co.uk), also based at Great Walsingham Barns, is working towards a new autumn jewellery collection after a busy summer; turquoise, aquamarine and peridot are the season’s colours. Workshop bookings are being taken into November and Tracey will be running a hoop and stud earring making session at Wells Maltings in December (book via www.wellsmaltings.org.uk).

After the long, hot summer, local artist Rebecca Lloyd (www. rebeccalloyd.co.uk) is now working on pieces which transport the viewer to the ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’, the subtle and golden light of autumn, spring tides and full moons. Working solely with her hands, Rebecca produces large-scale paintings of our big skies and ever-changing landscape, creating a sense of place. Her studio is open year-round by appointment (bex@ rebeccalloyd.co.uk, 07977 227708) where you’ll also see her smaller framed studies and limitededition prints, which are stocked by Holkham Courtyard Gift Shop, too.

Two to view

Local artist Judi Tussaud will be showing new and recent work at her solo exhibition at Brancaster Staithe Village Hall. Working mainly in oils, Judi paints North Norfolk scenes in both impressionistic and realistic styles, and is particularly known for her coastal studies, celebrating the sea and our beaches in all lights and weathers. When From 4 to 6 October, 10am to 5pm each day. Judi’s paintings are also on show at Norfolk Living in Burnham Market and Hive Norfolk at Creake Abbey.

Keep up to date via Instagram @juditussaud

Independent artist Susan Vaughan-Williams (www.susanvaughanwilliams.co.uk) is likewise embracing the new season. She says: ‘I look forward to the autumn and winter as a time when I can immerse myself in the studio and work on all the ideas that have been percolating through the hot, busy summer months.’ However, she’s happy to be interrupted by people interested to see and chat about her bold and thought-provoking work. Call 07774 609357 to make an appointment to visit her studio in Great Bircham. Our final destination is King’s Lynn, where Contemporary and Country’s third ‘viewing room’ exhibition at Woolmarket House (www. contemporaryandcountry. com) is now open. Running until 1 November, it features new paintings by Linda Jamieson, who has worked on the North Norfolk coast for many years. Her richly coloured canvases will be complemented by Suffolkbased Steven Will’s classic, usable

Peter Wylie’s ‘Sea Study’

Wells Maltings is hosting ‘Common Threads’ this November, an exciting exhibition showcasing work by a group of 11 local artists, united by a love of making beautiful textile pieces, including Joy Pitts, Alison Henry and Debbie Lyddon. You’ll see contextual and traditional textiles and interesting techniques with surface and dye. Artists will be in the gallery on a rota during the week, so you’ll be able to chat to them about their work. There will be workshops and demonstrations too, bookable via the venue’s website. When 3 to 13 November, 11am to 4pm. www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

ceramic vessels in simplified forms. November will bring painter

series and Carolyn Brookes-Davies’ shell art to the space - definitely one to see!

Judi Tussaud’s exhibition at Brancaster Staithe Village Hall runs from 4 to 6 October

‘10,000 Used Labels’ by Joy Pitts at Wells Cathedral, Somerset. Joy will be part of ‘Common Threads’

Narrow sterling silver and turquoise rings by TJ Adam Silversmith

‘Just In Time’ by Rebecca Lloyd

‘See The Scorch Feel The Heat’ by Susan Vaughan-Williams

‘It’s OK To Be Different’ by Linda Jamieson, Contemporary and Country

Capturing Light, Creating Joy, Transforming Lives & Spaces

STUDIO OF

6 LYLES COURT, LEES YARD, HOLT, NR25 6HS

OPEN HOURS: FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS: 10 AM TO 4PM

Mention Norfolk Living when you visit to collect your complimentary fine art card

KATHA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHIC ART

Book chat

All Wrapped Up by Heidi

Swain

Simon & Schuster, £9.99

I always enjoy Heidi’s summer and Christmas novels, so on hearing that she’s swapped seasons and written an autumn book, I was intrigued. We’re back in Wynbridge, where Instagram influencer Clemmie Bennett has been renovating Rowan Cottage on the outskirts of the town, living under the radar after losing her husband and moving to the area 18 months ago. After an encounter with Lizzie of The Cherry Tree Cafe, Clemmie becomes involved in organising Wynbridge’s first autumn festival and soon meets local vet Ash. As the leaves turn and the seasons change, is it time for Clemmie’s life to change, too? This is a heartwarming novel, perfect for cosying up with as the nights draw in.

Midnight in Paris by Gillian Harvey Boldwood, £9.99

Paris is Sophie and Tom’s special place. They first visited the city together as students and fell in love, deciding to return every summer. Years later, Sophie is meeting Tom there again and has something to tell him which will change everything. Midnight in Paris is a romance yes, but also much more and is a really impactful read. I’ve recently enjoyed Gillian’s latest novelThe Village Cafe in the Loire (Boldwood, £9.99) - following high-flyer Becky as she decamps to the French cafe she’s inherited, after being signed off work with burnout. Escapism and sunshine, but there’s a twist or two, too!

The Sitter by Caroline McGhie Waterland Books, £12.99

A solitary young woman steps from the train onto the station platform in Swanton Stoke, a railway village at the end of the line in late Victorian North Norfolk. Who she is and why she’s left her former life is gradually revealed, as she interacts with the rich cast of characters; from Jack Stamp, the intelligent, inquisitive son of a baker, to the ‘refined’ but lonely Mrs Eden, whose husband is high up in the railway. Rich in social history, the landscape and places effectively act as characters, too, in this atmospheric, absorbing read which I returned to in my mind long after it was done.

Poppyland by DJ Taylor

Salt Modern Stories, £9.99

A family holidaying in North Norfolk; a meeting between old friends on Sea Palling beach; a young couple moving into their first home together in Norwich. Mostly set in Norfolk, this collection of 13 beautifully crafted short

Amanda Loose shares new and recent releases, all with a local connection

East Anglia’s Literary Heritage by Christopher Reeve Amberley, £15.99

stories shares snapshots of characters at often key moments in their lives. Though essentially understated in tone, these tales are thought provoking and insightful. If you enjoy this, do check out the author’s other recent short story collection, Stewkey Blues, fiction category winner at the 2022 East Anglian Book Awards, and also published by Salt.

FOR BUDDING BOOKWORMS

Kata & Tor by Kevin Crossley-Holland Walker Books, £7.99

If you’re looking to discover more books written or based in our region, this compendium is a good starting point. Covering Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, it focuses on writers both native to the area and visitors, from medieval female authors such as Margery Kempe and Julian of Norwich to contemporary novelists including Rose Tremain and Ian McEwan, by way of Dickens, Anna Sewell and Captain Marryat, who wrote The Children of the New Forest whilst living in Langham. If you pick up this celebration of East Anglia’s literary heritage, you’ll definitely add some titles to your to be read list!

What Art Can Tell Us About Love by Nick Trend

Laurence King, £18.99

Secret affairs and love triangles, enduring love and burning passions. Art historian and journalist Nick Trend’s latest book explores how love has inspired artists and influenced the works they’ve created, from Rubens to Rembrandt, Frida Kahlo to Francis Bacon. Beautifully illustrated with colour photographs of more than 70 artworks, this is a fascinating guide to a pervasive, if not always happy-everafter theme, taking in landscapes and still lifes, portraits and self-portraits.

It’s 1066. The youngest son of Norway’s legendary King Harald Hardrada, Tor is sent to scout ahead of the Viking fleet’s planned invasion of York. On his mission, he meets Kata who lives in an Anglo-Saxon village, south of the city. The two teenagers fall for each other, but the truth will out, and they must decide where their loyalties lie. An engaging read from this award-winning children’s author and well-known poet. Recommended for age 12+.

Garden and Outdoor Living Fair

Garden-themed stalls, walks and talks. 27th September

The Halloween Garden

The Walled Garden has a spooky, fun, family-friendly, activity-filled makeover. 26th - 30th October

Workshops

Needle felting, oil painting, willow weaving, candle making, silversmithing and floragami.

Wellness Day

Forest bathing and a sound bath in the park. 15th October

Tours

Discover the Walled Garden, Temples Trees and Turnips, and the Hall’s attics and cellars.

See more events at holkham.co.uk

Arts & Culture

Get creative

From pottery throwing and pop-up books to creative writing and calligraphy, North Norfolk’s workshop scene has much to offer. Amanda Loose is inspired!

The Salted Kiln

This pottery studio in Melton Constable - launched by ceramicist Sally Mills earlier this year - holds eight wheel throwing workshops each week. These 90-minute small group sessions are suitable for all abilities and offer a relaxed introduction to the art, with your own wheel to work on throughout. If you’d like to learn more, Sally also runs a variety of evening classes in seven-week blocks, including exploring the art of ceramics and glass fusion and learning a range of pottery techniques. www.thesaltedkiln.com

NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes

This coastal nature reserve has a busy programme of workshops this autumn, from creative writing outside to gel plate printing. Highlights include a three-hour wildlife illustration workshop with artist Hannah Dale, founder of Wrendale Designs, on 8 November, while local author James McDermott will host a full-day interactive workshop on 4 November teaching tools and techniques to help write poetry exploring the nature of grief. www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk

Norfolk Creative Arts

From experimental landscape painting to creating pop-up cards and books, Grimston-based Norfolk Creative Arts hosts a wide range of one-day and weekend workshops with experienced tutors. On 16 November, for instance, you can learn to make a painted glass panel with Emma Blount, who will teach the art of Victorian layering glass painting, or on the previous day, get to grips with reduction lino cut printing with Judith Handley, who’ll take you through the basics from using cutting tools to planning each colour stage. www.norfolkcreativearts.co.uk

Stanhoe Village Hall

Discover how to make pop-up cards and books with local artist Sue Welfare at an all-day workshop on 25 October, with lunch, cake and refreshments. November brings gelli plate printing and Christmas wreath making workshops to the venue, with more in the pipeline for 2026. Class sizes are kept small to ensure individual attention, email laurajpocock@yahoo.co.uk for more details. www.stanhoe.org

Wells Maltings

Wells-next-the-Sea’s arts venue is playing host to an interesting series of art and craft workshops this season. Make a simple hand-stitched sketchbook and a hand-bound caterpillar book and learn watercolour techniques and how to document your observations of the landscape at local artist Debbie Lyddon’s ‘Exploring Place’ full-day class on 5 November. Textile artist Cherry Vernon Harcourt will demonstrate the technique of putting colour onto cloth using earth pigments and soy milk on 10 November, or master making an embroidered card with Sue Rainsford at a morning workshop two days later. www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

Maná Art, Aylsham

This contemporary art gallery on the town’s Red Lion Street is offering a series of two-hour lino cutting workshops this autumn, from lino basics on 7 October and 4 November to lino collage on 21 October. You can also learn how to paint poppies with watercolours on Armistice Day, 11 November, from 11.30am for an hour. Festive workshops begin on 18 November, with making linocut and watercolour Christmas cards, parchment craft and wreath making on the agenda. manaartgallery.com

Holkham Hall

Willow weaving, winter candle making, block printing and silversmithing… Holkham has a really varied line up of creative workshops this autumn and winter. If you fancy upping your Christmas card game by learning the art of modern calligraphy, join expert Clare Warren for a morning or afternoon session on 5 December where you’ll be guided through the essentials of working with a dip pen and ink and receive your own calligraphy kit to take home.

www.holkham.co.uk

Wheel throwing at The Salted Kiln

Glass painting by Emma Blount, Norfolk Creative Arts

Create pop-up books with Sue Welfare at Stanhoe Village Hall

DO YOU HAVE A SECOND HOME OR HOLIDAY LET?

If you are new to holiday letting, using another agency and seeking a change, or marketing yourself and want more bookings, then Norfolk Hideaways are your local experts

If you have a property, on the coast or inland, then get in touch: newowners@norfolkhideaways.co.uk 01328 887658 www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Award-winning Norfolk Hideaways is part of an independently run family business. With 16 years of experience in the local holiday letting market and a portfolio of 700 properties, including 150 luxury properties along the coast and inland, they have a large and loyal customer base, with guests returning year after year to enjoy holidays in their wide range of holiday cottages catering for every budget. Winners of the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for the past five years, they pride themselves on their customer service.

“To meet the ever-increasing demand for beautiful coastal, country, and characterful holiday homes, we are always looking for new properties to join our portfolio,” says Helen Millin, Director.

“We only market properties that we would choose to stay in ourselves, and we invest in our homeowners as much as they invest in us, which is why so many of our owners have been with us for over 15 years.”

If you are buying or already have a property that you are looking to holiday let, the property team make the process of sharing your holiday home easy and enjoyable. Choose from a Marketing Service, or Marketing and Managed Service with bespoke add-ons including Compliance support, so you are ready to accept paying guests, and an enhanced Marketing contract for those who want more support, but don’t want a fully managed service. In addition, they will find you a housekeeper and other tradespeople.

With extensive knowledge of the Norfolk holiday market, the team are always on hand to provide the best experience from their three offices in Burnham Market, Wells and Holt.

Two of the newest properties to join the Norfolk Hideaways portfolio Sedum House, Gimingham © Steve Adams, 2025

The Windmill, Harpley

FASHION FIX

Your autumn style bulletin from Amanda Loose

A shore thing

Local clothing brand Little Shrimp launched last year, with its range of children’s organic cotton t-shirts and sweatshirts featuring cute little shrimp and mackerel designs. Founder Laura Arnold, who is based near Reepham, says: ‘I wanted to create a product that would remind visitors of a beautiful holiday, memorable family time or just a wonderful day on one of our scenic North Norfolk beaches. The designs are inspired by the coast, its colours, textures and the little creatures that call the seashore their home.’

For AW25, expect new sweatshirt designs, t-shirt colours and another creature joining the gang. Little Shrimp’s collection, stocked by Thornham Deli and www.little-shrimp.co.uk, is manufactured in the UK and embroidered/ printed here in Norfolk.

1 2 3

Going soft

Seam-free, stretchy underwear, with no underwires in sight… this lockdown lingerie trend is still going strong, with comfort and wearability still very much on the agenda. Pollard & Read in Holt stocks a great selection of French brand Chantelle’s bestselling Soft Stretch bras and knickers.

Store manager Anna Ledger tells me: ‘They are really popular as they are an easy option and look good under clothing. The look is contemporary with clean finishes and invisible seams; they’re comfy but offer good lift on the cup with built-in support, and cover cup sizes A-F, 30-40 band. The matching one-size seamless knickers (which fit extra-small to extra-large) are also very popular, with several styles on offer from thong to high waist.’ www.pollardandread.com

CHANTELLE SOFT STRETCH POWER PLUNGE WIREFREE BRA IN GREY LEOPARD £57 AND HIGH WAIST BRIEF £17, Pollard & Read

Step back in time

Getting shirty

Three casual men’s shirts for autumn

1: BRAKEBURN BADBURY CHECK SHIRT £79.99, Creek, Blakeney www.creeklifestyle.co.uk

2: LINDBERGH CHECKED SOFT COTTON SHIRT IN GREY MELANGE £59.95, Nelle-dk, Drove Orchards, Thornham www.nelle-dk.co.uk

3: ANERKJENDT THEO CORD OVERSHIRT IN DEEP LITCHEN £85, Bringing the outside in, Wells www. nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk

Sashay through 500 years of fashion with the National Trust’s new book 100 Things to Wear: Fashion from the Collections of the National Trust (£12), highlighting how historical clothing continues to influence modern fashion trends and celebrating the work of creators from all over the world. Items include a gold and silver doublet and breeches worn to George IV’s coronation, a onesie worn by Churchill during air raids and a three-piece suit dating from 1740-50. The latter is on display at Felbrigg Hall until 2 November.

100 Things to Wear is available from National Trust shops, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk and bookshops.

MARBLE TANK £66, Allez Chic, Castle Rising www.allezchic.co.uk

Little Shrimp designs

Above: BRAKEBURN MARINA TANK £69.99, Creek, as before

Left: NOELLA GIO KNIT VEST £95, Thornham Deli, Thornham www.thornhamdeli.co.uk

FIBRE MAGIC GEM UMBRELLA £35, The Tannery

CHECK MATES

Choose some checks, balance out with a dash of denim, and you’ll be all square for the new season, says Amanda Loose

KING LOUIE ZIP ONYX DENIM

JUMPSUIT £180, Nomad & the bowerbird

CULTURE ARPA DENIM DRESS £69.99, Thornham Deli

ALICE COLLINS ELLE EVERGREEN CHECK LONG FLEECE JACKET £65, Allez Chic

PART TWO SAMILLA DARK CHECK SHIRT £69.95, Bakers & Larners

KING LOUIE ROSA PANTS LEEDS CHECK £110, Nomad & the bowerbird BOUDICA CHOCOLATE HEELED ANKLE BOOTS £245, Fairfax & Favor

HARRIS TWEED SMALL HANDBAG £70, The Tannery

MUNTHE SHIMO CARGO DENIM TROUSERS £199, Nelle-dk

SUNDAY

£82, Allez Chic

HEATHER NAVY CHECK COAT £120, FatFace Burnham Deepdale

MUNTHE LUXA DENIM BLOUSE £199, Nelle-dk

£80,

CYBERJAMMIES BLAZE BRUSHED CHECK PYJAMA SET £52, Pollard & Read

KING LOUIE YELLOW CHECK SCARF £30, Nomad & the bowerbird

ARPA DENIM PUFF BALL SKIRT £69.99, Thornham Deli

Allez Chic, Castle Rising www.allezchic.co.uk; Bakers & Larners, Holt www.bakersandlarners.co.uk; Fairfax & Favor, Holt www.fairfaxandfavor.com; FatFace, Burnham Deepdale www.fatface.com; Ffarr, Burnham Market www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk; Lings Country Goods, Great Massingham www.lingscountrygoods.co.uk; Nelle-dk, Drove Orchards, Thornham www.nelle-dk.co.uk; Nomad & the bowerbird, Holt and Wells www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk; Pollard & Read, Holt www.pollardandread.com; The Tannery, Holt www.thetannery.co.uk; Thornham Deli, Thornham www.thornhamdeli.co.uk

GODSKE

JACKET

INDI & COLD DENIM BOMBER JACKET IN WASHED RED £244, Ffarr

SCHÖFFEL FLORA GINGHAM SHIRT

Lings Country Goods

CULTURE

PRE-LOVED DESIGNER FASHION

Experience a luxury shopping experience with beautifully curated preloved designer pieces and expert styling advice.

Visit The Courtyard Boutique with clothes, bags and accessories; and The Summer House housing our dedicated shoe boutique.

Both nestled within the beautiful surroundings of Creake Abbey.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10.00 to 4.00 pm Private appointments available on request.

Pre-loved and proud

North Norfolk’s pre-loved fashion scene is thriving, with charity shops, quality second-hand stores and designer pop-ups redefining how we think about shopping, says Rachel Bowles

FROM colourful upcycled pieces to timeless designer labels, these local spots prove that pre-loved can be every bit as stylish as buying new. As someone who has always championed second-hand style, this trend is right up my street. If you’re considering refreshing your wardrobe in a sustainable and rewarding way, here are my top picks for shopping preloved fashion across North Norfolk.

Flints Finds at Drove Orchards, Thornham, offers a really contemporary take on pre-loved shopping. This ‘vintage second-hand’ boutique specialises in casual designer labels such as Ralph Lauren, Barbour, Gant and Tommy Hilfiger for men, women and children. With rails of luxury pieces, it is the perfect place to find everyday fashion staples at a fraction of their original price, all while saving quality clothing from ending up in landfill. The store’s smart, family-friendly vibe feels right at home at Drove Orchards, and they often have pop-up shops in other locations, too. www.flintsfinds.co.uk

Oola Boola in Holt has long been a favourite with pre-loved fashion devotees. This cheerful, family-run shop is brimming with personality, offering vintage, upcycled and retro clothing lovingly selected for character and quality. Every rack holds a surprise, whether it’s a playful dress, a reworked jacket or a quirky accessory, making it a must-visit for anyone who enjoys discovering one-off pieces with a story behind them. The brightly coloured pieces displayed in the entrance are hard to resist; I’ve currently got my eye on one of the patterned silk kimonos - perfect for chic layering this autumn. www.oolaboolafabulous.com

The recently opened Tapping House Charity Shops in Wells-next-theSea and Burnham Market have quickly become popular with residents and visitors alike. Bright, well-presented and thoughtfully stocked, the rails feature seasonal clothing, smart jackets, accessories and handbags. On a recent visit I bought a classic Tommy Hilfiger t-shirt and a colourful

beach cover up, proof that these shops are full of stylish surprises. Every purchase supports the Hillington-based hospice, helping to fund vital care for patients and families facing life-limiting illness. Regular donations and carefully managed stock mean there is always something new to discover. www.tappinghouse.org.uk

Not far away, at Creake Abbey in North Creake, you’ll find Woven Anew, a luxury pre-loved designer store founded by Jenny McGreal. After years of co-owning a high-end boutique in the north-west, Jenny has brought her passion for timeless, high-quality fashion to Norfolk. She curates a carefully chosen collection of beautiful clothes and accessories ready to be loved and worn again and now has a dedicated shoe shop in the neighbouring summerhouse, too, with plenty of boots for autumn. Woven Anew is a welcoming space for anyone seeking sustainable style with a personal touch. This season expect to see plenty of pieces in chocolate brown and plum tones, winter whites and camels, plus cosy coats, leather and suede jackets.

Keep up with their latest arrivals via Instagram @woven_anew

Over in Sheringham, Pure Class Vintage stocks an eclectic mix of preloved, vintage and retro clothing for both men and women. From smart jackets and classic dresses to separates and statement accessories, it’s a treasure trove for those who appreciate timeless fashion with distinctive character. For transitional dressing from autumn into winter, I’d recommend browsing the selection of wool and tweed coats and adding a beautiful scarf or brooch for a touch of glamour. With a regularly updated selection and a reputation for unique finds, it’s popular with locals and visiting vintage enthusiasts. www.pureclassvintage.co.uk

Zimmerman dress (size 14), resale price £295 and Prada sunglasses, resale price £150, Woven Anew

Flints Finds stocks brands including Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Barbour and Gant

Tapping House Charity Shop, Wells-next-the-Sea

MAKE UP SKIN CARE HAIR CARE BATH AND BODY FRAGRANCE

NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH

ERE PEREZ GINKO MICELLAR CLEANSER AND REFILLS

A world-first water saving cleanser! Meet the new Ginko Micellar water and waterless cleansing tablets. A revolutionary approach to skincare that is both nourishing and environmentally conscious.

Simply drop a mess-free cleansing tablet into your reusable micellar water bottle, use drinking water and watch it transform into your everyday micellar water! Featuring antioxidant-rich ginko biloba to support a balanced complexion and clary sage with its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties.

The gentle formula leaves even sensitive skin feeling refreshed and revitalised. Plus, it is travel friendly and low waste, because beauty should be gentle on people and the planet.

Contains 3 Tablets (equivalent to 300ml of rehydrated cleanser) and a Post Consumer Recycled Bottle

EXPERIENCE SOME OF OUR AMAZING TREATMENTS IN OUR BEAUTY STUDIO

WILLOWBERRY NOURISH AND PROTECT FACIALS

£60 1 HOUR

October 6th, November 13th

NEW ANOKHA FACIALS – CHOOSE FROM THREE TREATMENTS –REJUVENATING – DEEP CLEANSING – CALMING INTR0DUCTORY OFFER

£50 1 HOUR (NORMALLY £60) October 6th, November 13th

THIRNS FACIAL SCULPTING MASSAGE

£100 1 HOUR 15 MINS

October 1st, 2nd, 3rd, November 4th, 5th

TISSUE RAYNOR MASSAGE WITH COUCH MASSAGE

£30 1/2 HOUR

£60 1 HOUR

October 4th, 10th, 17th, 24th, November 7th, 14th

Discover our edited selection of beauty and fragrance products with an emphasis on natural and organic formulations at

All well & good

Wellbeing and beauty news and notes with Harriet Cooper

This autumn I am…

… Ordering my St Eval advent calendar. I know it sounds early to be thinking about Christmas, but beauty and wellness advent calendars sell out fast and this one surely will. Not only do I love the coastal illustration of the humpback whale and mermaids, but behind every door there’s a tealight in St Eval scents that range from cosy Winter Thyme to invigorating Orange and Cinnamon. If you like the fragrances, the Courtyard Gift Shop at Holkham and Barefoot Living in Burnham Market stock St Eval candles. £50, www.st-eval.com

… Practising hot-cold therapy at The George & Dragon in Cley-next-the-Sea. The hotel, long a favourite of wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers thanks to its location on the coast, has introduced a Wellness Area to its repertoire. Open year-round to hotel guests and non-residents, the space includes two private changing rooms, an ice bath and a wooden sauna, with capacity for up to four people. It’s available for exclusive hire, too. £20 per person, www.georgeanddragoncley. co.uk

… Prepping for the party season with a refresh of my makeup bag. First stop: Joyful Living at Drove Orchards in Thornham, which stocks Lola, a British designed makeup brand that offers a great range of shades, high quality textures and is cruelty-free. Plus, the price point is accessible, which is a win for me. The hero product? The Chubby Cream Lipstick, a creamy, moisturising balm formula that can be used on lips and cheeks - plus the unique pencil-style applicator means it’s easy to apply onthe-go.

£12, www.joyfulliving.co.uk

… Girding my loins for Walk Norfolk 2025, which takes place throughout October. The event is organised by Pathmakers, a charity dedicated to improving access to the Norfolk countryside for people of all abilities and backgrounds. The month-long programme of walking activities highlights the area’s striking landscape and rich heritage. In North Norfolk, for example, you can go on a beachcombing safari at West Runton, explore the history of Poppyland on a tour of Cromer or immerse yourself in Holt Country Park. All walks are led by experienced guides. www.pathmakers.org.uk

… Booking in for some face time at Beauty by Paul Wilkins Creative in Holt. From 6 October, the beauty studio is launching a trio of Anokha facials with Miriam from Calmer Massage (who has magic hands).

The natural skincare line has long been a favourite of mine, packed with nurturing botanicals yet offering clinical-grade results. Choose from the Rejuvenating, Deep Cleansing or Calming Facial - each costs £60 for 60 minutes, though there’s an introductory offer of £48.

Instagram @beautybypaulwilkinscreative

Studio time

The London-based Complete Pilates arrives at Creake Abbey this autumn. We get the exclusive lowdown from Roxy Morgan who will be in charge of the new studio

The Studio has four Pilates reformer towers, which are very versatile pieces of equipment. We’ll be offering classes or one-to-one sessions on the reformer to help strength, mobility and coordination or the tower, which allows for a wider variety of exercises and deeper stretches. The Studio is rural-chic. The space has exposed brick, wooden beams and a huge mirror on the back wall. There’ll be no loud music, it’s all about mindful movement and living well. I love how there’s a real wellness lifestyle environment at Creake Abbey. You can build strength and resilience in your Pilates, grab a coffee in the gorgeous cafe, have a look at the shops - there’s also a hairdressers and a nail salon.

I’ve been with Complete Pilates for almost a decade. We’ve got three sites in London and I was manager of the Chelsea studio for six years. I moved back here in 2023. I’m a born and bred North Norfolk girl and started out as a gym instructor at Splash in Sheringham before going on to do sports rehabilitation at university, which is when I learnt how integral Pilates can be as a treatment.

I see Pilates as giving people their own tools to help themselves. It’s great for a variety of ages and abilities, as well as different injuries. It is brilliant for pre- and post-natal clients, as well as posture and general mental health. I’m really excited about how our new studio is going to have a positive impact on everyone.

We’re hoping to be up and running by early November. Initially we’ll be open during the day on Tuesdays to Saturdays and will run introductory sessions at a discounted rate for new clients - for 1:1, we’re offering two x 55-minute sessions for £80 and for group classes (4:1), four x 50-minute classes for £60. Terms and conditions apply. To express your interest, please contact info@complete-pilates.co.uk www.complete-pilates.co.uk; www.creakeabbey.co.uk

West Runton beach

Art

& soul

Crafting makes us happy: it can reduce stress, boost our mood, enhance self-esteem and foster mindfulness. This autumn, artist Tess Meadows will be running her popular Art & Wellbeing Workshops (which last between four to six hours) in Cley-next-the-Sea. Choose from such delights as card-making (7 and 23 October), 3D assemblage (14 November) or art journalling (20 November). Tess also runs a monthly Collage Club (two hours). No previous experience necessary.

Instagram @tessmeadowsartist

New spa review

THE COTTAGE AT THE MALTINGS, WEYBOURNE

This new spa may be small, but it means big business. It’s set in a separate building adjacent to the hotel, in what was the pump house but has now been converted into a bijou sanctuary with two treatment rooms (one a double, the other a single). Every design detail is intentionally calming, from the textural furnishings to the soft colour palette to the Connock room fragrance.

The treatment list has been curated to ‘ease tension and lift the spirit’ covering the likes of Swedish Full Body Massage, Reflexology, a Collagen Infusion Facial and plenty more besides, all using the natural skincare brand Pevonia.

I opt for the Signature Massage, which focuses on the back, neck and shoulders, finished off with an Indian head massage (£95 for 60 minutes). Following a foot cleanse and three deep breaths of lavender oil, we’re off - and what a massage! My therapist Emma is incredibly intuitive; I’d told her I prefer firm pressure and she digs deep in all the right places, gently easing out knots in others. I am like putty in her hands, sinking deeper and deeper into relaxation mode as the minutes tick by. The Indian head massage is the icing on the cake. Zzzzz. When my hour is up, I feel wonderfully soothed yet, paradoxically, completely reenergised and ready for a lovely long lunch in the hotel’s Grain Store restaurant. Lock the door and throw away the key - this is one cottage I could stay in forever. www.themaltingsweybourne.com/the-cottage

Smooth operator

I don’t know about you, but summer (salty swims, sunshine) has left my hair craving attention.

Serendipity then that Bumble and bumble has launched a new Styling Oil; the lightweight, dryfinish formula is ideal for dry or dull locks. Spritz on by itself or mix with creams, gels, and pomades before applying for a smooth, shiny finish with reduced frizz. Oh, and it helps prevent pesky split ends, too.

£39, www.barnetts-hair.co.uk

Roxy Morgan

From Tess’ altered photography collage workshop

The Maltings’ Grain Store restaurant © David Loftus

The great autumn reset

As the days grow shorter and the skies turn greyer, it’s tempting to kick into hibernation mode. But don’t curl up and hide away just yet… Harriet Cooper has a few ideas on how to embrace the new season with vigour and vitality

Come out of your shell

Take a walk on the mindful side

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, being immersed in nature ticks many wellbeing boxes - it reduces stress, improves mood, enhances physical health and can give us perspective. But as the seasons change, maybe you need a little more motivation to stride out. If so, why not sign up for an organised walk? Norfolk Wildlife Trust has a packed programme of excursions, including a Mindfulness Walk at NWT Cley Marshes (the second Monday of the month); ‘Walking on the edge of Norfolk’ to discover coastal wildlife with author David North, also in Cley (second or third Friday of the month); and ‘Leg-stretch to Salthouse’ discovering the history of the surrounding landscape (first or last Wednesday of the month). Walks should be booked in advance; prices vary. www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/RegularWalks

You’ve heard about the restorative power of hot stone treatments, which ease muscle tension, reduce stress and improve circulation? The Retreat Spa in Brancaster brings a beachy spin to proceedings with its new Lava Shell Massage. To begin, therapists use warm shells combined with relaxing massage techniques on the palms, arms, feet and legs, the slow sweeping movements working wonders to soothe both body and mind. This is then followed by a deeply restorative back, shoulder and neck massage, which eases tension and knots, leaving you feeling thoroughly revived. £95 for 60 minutes. www.retreat-spa.co.uk

Immerse yourself in soothing sounds

Sound bathing… if you haven’t tried it, may we suggest you give this meditative practice a go. Join Nicky from Sound and Ground at Holkham on 15 October for a Wellness Day (10am to 4.30pm). You’ll spend the morning forest bathing, during which you’ll be led through mindful and sensory practices amongst the trees. After lunch in the Walled Garden, Nicky will get out her gongs, chimes, drum and singing bowls for a 90-minute sound bath meditation. It costs £85 to join this bliss bubble, with lunch, refreshments and complimentary parking included. During the colder months, if you need a dose of fresh air and a decent conversation, Holkham also runs free monthly Wellbeing Walks at 10am on the third Tuesday of every month, in October (Holkham Beach), November (Wells Beach) and December (Holkham Park). www.holkham.co.uk

NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes © Phil Barnes Photography

Nicky from Sound and Ground

Beauty & Wellbeing

Give yourself a makeover

Clear out your cosmetics bags: Trinny London has arrived at Jarrolds in Norwich, in what is the first concession for Trinny Woodall’s skincare and makeup brand in the east of England. Customers can shop the products, which range from nourishing cleansers to the perfect highlighter, with a team on hand to share advice on how to find the right skincare or shades for you. You can also pre-book a bespoke paid-for appointment with one of the in-store Trinny London personal advisors - options include the 30-minute ‘Rethink Your Skincare Routine’ (£35) or a ‘Bring Your BFF’ 60-minute session for two friends (£80) during which the brand’s experts will share tips and tricks on colour-matching the correct makeup to your skin, hair and eye colour combinations. The cost of your appointment is fully redeemable against any Trinny London purchase made on the day of your appointment. www.jarrolds.co.uk

Book in something fun

Renew with the folks at Ffolkes

There’s a new wellness retreat in town and it’s promising to shake up the East Anglian spa scene. The FFOLKESPA, which cost a cool £3million to actualise, is at the Ffolkes hotel in Hillington. Choose from an overnight spa stay or half-day spa experience, but either way, expect to be immersed in a vibe which centres on ‘soaking and sipping, lounging and laughing’ - think cocktails over kale smoothies. There are five distinct spa zones, offering thermal experiences and treatments. The Ibiza Zone, for example, features four double foot spas, cabanas with heated loungers and a hot tub complete with disco ball; plus there are three different saunas, a plunge pool, mist shower and ice fountain, and four treatment rooms for massages, bodywork and facials. Spa stays cost from £250 per night, spa days from £95 per person and treatments from £80.

www.ffolkes.org.uk

Gather gently

You know what it’s like, the festive season can be fun if a tad fraught, so booking in for something that will bring a little peace to your Christmas is never a bad idea. And we’ve got just the thing: The Gentle Gathering. Taking place in the pretty surroundings of Little Massingham Manor on 14 December, the one-day retreat (9.30am to 5pm, £188) invites you to gift yourself tranquillity, creativity and seasonal nourishment. After warming drinks and nibbles, you’ll do yoga and create a wreath with Wild Oak Workshops before breaking for lunch; afterwards, there’s a twohour winter woodland spa experience - think hot tubs, sauna and cold plunge - followed by meditation and sound bathing supported by hands-on Reiki. All is calm indeed. www.bearsoulwellbeing.com

A local library can offer us so much more than books - it’s a community hub, a place that fosters connection as well as learning. And North Norfolk’s libraries are a shining example, running a wealth of activities including those around health and wellbeing, with most of the sessions drop-in and free. Will it be ‘Colour Me Calm’, an hour of colouring that can ease the mind; or perhaps ‘Mindful Connections’, where you meet others while doing an activity such as cross stitch or writing poetry; or a cuppa at the Bereavement Café? Other events need to be booked, including the upcoming ‘Navigating Menopause’ with author and founder of Menopause Support Diane Danzebrink, who will share advice and answer your questions. For all times and locations, visit the website. www.norfolk.gov.uk

Keep on running

Yessss. It’s the weekend and the alarm clock is on silent. But while you could spend your Saturday morning procrastinating in bed or on the sofa, what about going for a run? Hear me out. Running in the morning will set you up for the day, nay the weekend: it’ll get your blood pumping, make you feel accomplished, boost energy and clarity. And what if you could achieve all this in the bucolic surrounds of Holkham, Sheringham Park or Sandringham? Well, you can with Parkrun. The weekly 5k community event takes place every Saturday at 9am - it’s free, all you need do is register beforehand. And don’t worry, this isn’t a competitive sprint - run at your own pace through sweeping park and farmland, past woods and coastal terrain. It’s the perfect wakeup call.

www.parkrun.com

The Woodland Spa, Little Massingham Manor

Parkrun at Sheringham Park

© FFOLKESPA

Osteopathy ~ Clinical Psychology ~ Echo Ear Care ~ Integrated Massage

Physiotherapy ~ Acupuncture ~ Heal Your Life Coaching

Nutritional Therapy ~ Myofascial Release ~ Hypnotherapy

Homeopathy ~ Counselling ~ Permanent Makeup

*Treatments subject to change

Poppyfields Drive, Snettisham, PE31 7UD

Last chance to buy

Your perfect home by the coast is waiting – but not for long!

Save the date

Show home opening at The Spires

Be among the first to step inside our stunning new show home at The Spires – launching on 15th November. Nestled in the heart of Snettisham, a village that’s both a hidden gem and a thriving community, this development of 2-5 bedroom homes places you moments from sandy beaches, wide open landscapes and the best of Norfolk living.

A home designed around you

Early buyers have the rare chance to personalise their new home – from hand-selecting premium kitchen cabinetry, worktops and designer tiles, to adding bespoke features such as an EV fast charger.

Contact our Sales Office at nearby St Edmund’s Park for current availability or register your interest to secure your personal invitation to the show home opening.

With the final homes now available, this is your opportunity to secure a move-in ready property at St Edmund’s Park, a short stroll from Old Hunstanton Beach and close to the town. All homes come complete with flooring throughout and are finished to the highest standard – so you could be settled in and celebrating the festive season in your new home.

The show home is now for sale Don’t miss the chance to own the stunning ex-show home, beautifully interior-designed with an enhanced specification including a spacious conservatory, premium window dressings, bespoke décor and beautifully landscaped front and rear gardens.

Final homes remaining! Sales Office open Thursday to Monday, 10am-5pm.

Cromer Road, Hunstanton, PE36 6HE

The Heart Behind the Numbers GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY:

In the world of accounting and finance, precision, structure, and deadlines often take centre stage. But beyond the balance sheets and budget forecasts lies a deeper, more human story—one of compassion, connection, and community. For many accounts professionals, giving back isn’t just a side activity; it’s a core part of who they are.

A Natural Extension of the Role

At first glance, the link between accounting and community service might not seem obvious. But dig a little deeper, and the connection becomes clear. Those who work in accounts are often detailoriented, responsible, and deeply committed to helping others succeed—traits that translate beautifully into volunteerism and charitable work.

Michael Wood, IT Manager and Matt Warner, IT Technician, both volunteer with different Scout groups. They both agree it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Each week, they help deliver fun, inclusive activities that encourage young people to build confidence, learn new skills, and work as a team.

Regularly using their own time to participate in outdoor adventures like camping and hiking to creative badge work and community projects, no two sessions are the same. Matt has just returned from a week at NORJAM. Matt said, we work alongside a fantastic team of volunteers to ensure everything runs smoothly. One of the most fulfilling parts of the role is seeing the growth in the young people we support. Watching them overcome challenges, develop leadership skills, and form lasting

friendships is what makes it all worthwhile.

Michael added, volunteering has also helped us grow personally. It’s strengthened our communication and leadership skills and deepened our connections to the local community. We are proud to play a part in helping young people thrive.

Jack Napolitano, Accounts Senior, is Treasurer for the Hunstanton and District Round Table 615. Jack said, I’m proud to be part of a team of volunteers who work year-round to support our local community through two of the town’s most beloved events: the Hunstanton Clifftop Fireworks in November and the Hunstanton Christmas Swim on Christmas Day.

Both events are entirely volunteer-run and have become staples of the local calendar. The fireworks display lights up the skies and brings families together for a night of celebration, while the Christmas Swim sees hundreds of brave souls take a chilly dip in the sea—often in costume—all in the name of charity.

What makes these events truly special is where the money goes. Every penny raised is donated to local charities and individuals in need. Applications are welcomed from groups and causes across the area, and we carefully allocate funds where they can make the biggest difference.

In 2024 alone, we donated £24,000, following £17,200 in 2023. Beneficiaries have included:

• Hunstanton Primary School

• West Norfolk Deaf Association

• West Norfolk Autism Group

• Norfolk Coast Watch (for beach shed repairs)

• Local children’s clubs and summer activities

• Specialised wheelchairs for individuals

• The Queen Elizabeth Hospital

• The 8:56 Foundation

• Annual donations to local Scout groups for their support

These donations help fund vital services, equipment, and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. It’s a privilege to be part of something that brings people together and gives back in such a meaningful way.

Volunteering with the Round Table is about more than organising events—it’s about community, connection, and making a lasting impact.

10 Oak Street, Fakenham, NR21 9DY Tel: 01328 863318

22-26 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HJ Tel: 01553 774104 enquiries@stephenson-smart.com www.stephenson-smart.com

An ode to autumn

From rustling hedgerows to wide coastal skies, autumn in North Norfolk wraps the land in gold. It’s a time of wonder, of geese overhead, fungi underfoot, and the soft crunch of leaves on country lanes. So, here’s our love letter to the season with 10 ways to make the most of its golden spell.

Words: Natalie Douglas

The call of the wild

In the quiet parkland of Holkham, something ancient stirs. Autumn is rutting season, when the estate’s fallow stags roar and clash in displays of wild power. Walk the paths near the obelisk, keeping your distance but your ears tuned for that unmistakable bellow. It’s a rare chance to witness nature’s drama on your doorstep. You can also hop aboard Holkham’s tractor-trailer for one of their deer and wildlife safaris from 25 to 31 October where you can learn more from a knowledgeable guide.

Legends of the fall

As the nights draw in, Norfolk’s folklore creeps closer. From the eerie Black Shuck, said to stalk coastal paths, to the lost Babes in the Wood at Wayland Wood near Watton, this county is stitched with stories. Hear the tale of the Sheringham mermaid whose singing turned to sorrow, or the Warham fiddler, lost underground to the faerie folk. Check out the Norfolk Folklore Society podcast on Apple or Spotify for an evening of spine-tingling tales.

Make for the Maltings

As the temperature drops, head indoors for stories, music and atmosphere at Wells Maltings. With a packed programme of ghostly tales and local legends, acoustic gigs and heritage talks, there’s something to stir every soul. Grab a drink from the bar, settle into your seat, and let the sounds and spoken word carry you through the evening. See what’s on and book at www.wellsmaltings.org.uk

Fifty shades of gold

Autumn in Norfolk brings a rich, bold palette. Think copper beeches at Sheringham Park, golden oaks at Blickling, and fiery field maples across the hedgerows. Sunsets take on richer hues, casting amber light over reedbeds and fields of stubble. Even the skies seem more dramatic, sharp against the silhouettes of barns and windmills. It’s a season to walk slowly, look up, and collect moments of colour.

Scent of the season

Nothing says autumn quite like Apple Day at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse. Set against the red-brick backdrop of this historic site, the air is rich with the scent of crushed fruit and woodsmoke. Watch traditional cider pressing and learn about heritage Norfolk fruit varieties with the East of England Apples and Orchards Project (and have your own orchard fruit identified). Kids can craft, press juice, or roll apples in village games, plus there’ll be rare breed animals, traditional steam threshing demonstrations, and much more. This year the event takes place on Sunday 12 October.

Blickling Hall © National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Apple Day at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse © Beth Moseley Photography

Fallow deer at Holkham © Fisheye Images

Padel to the metal

Tennis might be timeless, but padel is the new racket sport in town, especially with courts just outside Fakenham, Reepham and Holt. With its walls and fast-paced rallies, padel stays lively even as daylight shortens. Bundle up for early evening games and sip a post-match hot chocolate in the clubhouse. A great autumnal twist on networking.

Beck to basics

Wendling Beck, a restored chalk stream in the heart of Norfolk, takes on a singular charm in autumn. Bank-side reeds turn amber, fish glide beneath fallen sycamore leaves, and returning kingfishers flash electric blue. Follow the quiet footpath from Wendling village and you may spot otter spraint, hear a water rail’s call or glimpse trout in riffles.

Grand design

Wolterton Hall, the recently restored 18th century Palladian gem near Itteringham, has swung open its doors with a rich art and culture programme running until 2 November. Inside the Marble Hall, discover ‘Sea State’, an exhibition of site-specific pieces by Maggi Hambling and Ro Robertson that dialogue with the grandeur of the space. In the Portrait Room, Hambling’s emotionally charged ‘Time’ series brings intimate reflection to an historic setting. Visit Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm (pre-booking essential), and explore art, architecture, a cafe and walks in one elegant destination.

Nature’s spectacle

From late October, thousands of birds arrive at the likes of NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes on their migratory routes; from waders and geese to rare visitors blown off course. Bring binoculars and soak in the stillness. Or head to Horsey Gap from late October, when grey seals begin gathering on the beach at Horsey for pupping season. It’s a breathtaking sight with pups on the sand, adults in the surf. Stick to the dunes and viewing points for the best views and keep dogs on short leads.

Eyes on the skies

With four designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites in our areaWiveton Downs Car Park, Kelling Heath Holiday Park, RSPB Titchwell Marsh nature reserve, and Barrow Common in Brancaster Staithe - you’ll find some of the clearest, most awe-inspiring views of the cosmos, with little to no light pollution. This year’s Dark Skies Festival, presented by the Norfolk Coast Protected Landscape team, launches on 10 October at Blakeney Village Hall, with talks, storytelling, music and local catering. The festival programme features a series of free events during autumn and winter, from astronomy and wildlife talks to biofluorescent walks. Follow their Eventbrite page ‘Norfolk Coast Partnership’ for details.

Installation view, Maggi Hambling and Ro Robertson: ‘Sea State’, 2025, Wolterton. Photo Eva Herzog. Courtesy the artists and Wolterton

Pink-footed geese, NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes © Nick Appleton

Burnham Deepdale Star Trail from a previous Dark Skies Festival

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If you’re considering letting your property, contact Property Manager Lorna today to arrange a free of charge, no-obligation property appraisal on 07570 670038.

WILD AT HEART

Natalie Douglas shines a spotlight on some of North Norfolk’s conservation projects and heroes

Corncrakes, curlew and connection

Chrissie Kelley has spent more than 30 years working with some of the world’s rarest and most threatened birds. And for now, her most ambitious work is unfolding right here on the North Norfolk coast, in Burnham Deepdale

Chrissie Kelley’s career has taken her from a little girl with a ‘duck hobby’ to working on global breeding programmes across Japan, America and the UK. From penguins and puffins to red squirrels and waders, it’s always been about more than conservation; it’s about connection, wonder and giving nature the chance to thrive.

Together with local landowner Andrew Crean, who offered land and funding out of a lifelong love for nature, Chrissie helped launch the Deepdale Conservation Trust earlier this year. Its mission? To give two of the UK’s most endangered birds, the curlew and corncrake (both Red-listed species), a fighting chance.

The UK holds over 25% of the global curlew population, yet numbers continue to decline. Corncrakes, once a familiar summer sound in Norfolk, have all but vanished. At Burnham Deepdale, that story is beginning to change.

Curlew eggs, rescued from RAF airfields threatened by mowing and aircraft, are incubated and hand-reared by Chrissie and her team. By summer, the first chicks were released into specially restored lowland habitats

across the county. Corncrakes, too, are being reintroduced through a carefully managed programme, part of a wider vision to restore lost species and rebuild habitats.

‘This isn’t just about birds,’ Chrissie explains. ‘Birds are indicator species. They show us how nature is really doing.’

Each bird is tagged and tracked in partnership with the British Trust for Ornithology. Behind the scenes, a dedicated

Work it out

crew of volunteers, researchers and conservationists work tirelessly to monitor, feed and care for every chick. It’s a collective effort grounded in science, heart, and hope.

‘You can’t fix this alone,’ says Chrissie. ‘But when you care and work together, you can change the future.’

To find out more or get involved, visit www.deepdaleconservationtrust.org.uk

This autumn, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust is inviting locals to get hands-on for wildlife. Their Wilder Communities workshops help individuals and groups across the county take real action; from attracting new species into green spaces to speaking up for nature in your parish. Whether you’re restoring a pond, planting for pollinators or starting a community project, there’s expert guidance and practical advice to support you. Generously subsidised by public donations, it’s grassroots conservation in action. www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/WilderCommunities

Well read

The Norwich Book Festival returns from 24 to 31 October, filling the city with stories, ideas, and conversation. With author talks, readings and workshops hosted across independent bookshops, cafes, and other venues, the festival invites readers of all ages to fall into narrative, explore new voices, and celebrate Norfolk’s proud literary heritage. Participating authors include Alison Weir, Paula Hawkins, and nature writer Tristan Gooley, discussing his latest book, The Hidden Seasons. It’s a wonderful autumnal invitation to pause, ponder, and turn the page together. www.norwichbookfestival.co.uk

Tristan Gooley © Jim Holden

Winter walk © Denzil Dean

Chrissie Kelley

A corncrake crexing

A curlew

GO WILD

with Robin Chittenden

Get set for darters, divers and jumpers, as our columnist welcomes the new season

Hop to it

In late autumn the last few insects cling on, some even surviving past the first frosts. One family of more robust insects that may survive into late autumn are the grasshoppers. The largest, and arguably the most eye-catching grasshopper in the UK is the large marsh grasshopper. By large, it’s only large compared with other grasshoppers and is actually quite small, about an inch long. But it is a radiant yellow-green colour when fully grown. It used to be found in marshy habitats in Norfolk. But somewhat surprisingly, you might think, it became extinct, after all Norfolk is known for its marshes. Happily, it is being reintroduced by the Citizen Zoo. Volunteers are supplied with the eggs of the large marsh grasshopper; when they hatch, the keepers provide food (plant matter) for the young (instars). Once fully grown, they are then freed as adults. In what the Citizen Zoo called a ‘Hop of Hope’ project, many hundreds of large marsh grasshoppers have been released over the last few years at a few sites mainly in West Norfolk, including Wild Ken Hill. If you find yourself in suitable habitat keep an eye open for them - you never know, there may have been some dispersal from the original release sites. After all, that’s the ‘Hop of Hope’. If you want to get involved, check out their website at www.citizenzoo.org

Copper comeback?

Perhaps Citizen Zoo could turn their attention to another lost charismatic species, the large copper. What a beautiful butterfly, and so sad it died out in the UK in the mid-18th century, probably as a result of the draining of The Fens. Although reintroduction attempts have been made, including in Norfolk, all have failed so far, but apparently there is an ongoing feasibility study to determine if another go should be made. Fingers crossed.

Diving in

The inshore waters off the North Norfolk coast can be good for attracting seabirds that breed further north. They come here to hunt fish. In ‘good’ years, you can get hundreds of birds and perhaps one of the most striking based on its size, black and white plumage and its dramatic diving habit is the gannet. If you find yourself by the coast, keep an eye out for a large, long-winged, angular bird that can often be seen flying along, just above the waves. They are usually some way out, often in small flocks. Binoculars would be useful. These could be gannets. And with good views, you may see the adults have a yellow shawl. Younger birds can appear all dark but if you see them closer, they are covered in tiny pale spots.

Sometimes you may spot them flying slightly higher, when they may be in fishing mode. They might then suddenly collapse their wings, before plunge diving into the water. If a shoal of fish is discovered, you may get several diving in quick succession. Very dramatic. These seabirds breed at only a few chosen locations around the UK, usually remote islands - the nearest colony is just up the coast at Bempton Cliffs in Yorkshire so not that far for a very able flyer to travel to North Norfolk.

There was concern that bird flu may reduce their population, as in common with all colonial seabirds that nest close together, there is a greater risk of the virus spreading throughout a colony. Indeed, many gannets did catch this normally fatal disease, but some managed to survive and live another day. It seems as a result of the infection, survivors’ eyes have enlarged black pupils. You’d need really good views to see that though.

Large marsh grasshopper release at Wheatfen Nature Reserve, Norfolk

Large copper, photographed by Robin in Romania

Northern gannet, photographed by Robin in Norfolk

Common knowledge

One of the most likely dragonflies to see in late autumn is the common darter, although personally, I don’t like the word common in a species name. It’s shocking how fast a common thing can become not so common, for example, common cuckoo, or indeed how a scarce thing can become quite common, like the scarce chaser dragonfly. In the case of common darter, however, the name still rings true, in that the common darter is the most common and widespread of all the darters in Europe.

The females are mostly light green and brown, and the males are red. They can be found almost anywhere but will be seen most commonly near freshwater, especially if warm, stagnant and shallow. Sounds lovely. They can regularly be found sunning themselves in sheltered spots, often on top of gate posts or other flat surfaces.

In reserve

I’ve already covered the village hides at NWT Holme Dunes, but the reserve proper is well worth a visit, too

The main car park is by the visitor centre at the end of the Broadwater Road, which itself leads north-east off the Beach Road on the north side of Holme-next-the-Sea village. If you start early, the gate across the final section of track to the visitor centre may not be open. Don’t despair as you could park here and walk from here along the Norfolk Coast Path, which runs along the north side of the reserve. It may be handy to study the reserve map from the NWT website to see the myriad of paths available when the reserve is open.

From the visitor centre, it’s worth having a snout around the pine trees in the dunes there for migrant birds, such as yellow-browed warblers, pied flycatchers, common redstarts and northern wheatears. You could be very lucky and find scarce migrants such as a wryneck or a barred warbler. In late autumn, there might be shore lark and possibly migrant waxwings. You could pop into the adjoining Holme NOA reserve to check all the habitat there, too.

As you explore, scan the beach for waders, and further offshore for seabirds. In northerly winds there could be many seabirds passing and even on quiet days there’s a good chance of clocking gannets mentioned earlier. Why not check the scrapes and pools from the hides to the south of the visitor centre? From here you might find freshwater waders and wildfowl. Marsh harriers will be almost permanently on view and if you’re lucky, you may come across a bittern.

Need to know

Paths on this site are access grade 2. The Coastliner bus stops by the A149, a somewhat inconvenient 40-minute walk away. Entrance to the nature reserve and start of the trails is beside the visitor centre. Dogs only on a lead. Postcode: PE36 6LQ

OS map reference: TF 714 449

What3Words: toasted.squirts.tolerable www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/holmedunes

Creating a stink

Not many species of plants start to flower in autumn, but some, such as the stinking hellebore, may start to flower in December. Although quite uncommon, it can be found in ancient woodlands and by old hedgerows. Alternative names include dung wort, stinkwort and foetid hellebore, and if you haven’t guessed it, the plant is a bit smelly. The flowers are pale green contrasting with the dark green leaves. A green-on-green combination; lovely if that combination appeals. Although it is a source of nectar for any late/early flying insects, the stinking hellebore plant itself is poisonous to humans and pets, if eaten, and could result in delirium and vomiting. Won’t be trying that on my salad then.

Left: Stinking hellebore

Shore lark Waxwing

Common darter

Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Thornham PE36 6LS

Tel: 01485 500 550 www.hortico.uk

hortico-nursery & garden emporium

hortico_garden_emporium

NEW OUTDOOR LIVING AREA OPEN

Outdoor Living CUTTINGS

Green-fingered tips and expert picks

Homegrown talent

Norfolk-based garden designers Laura Strand and Sam Stark-Kemp won an RHS Gold Medal this summer for their garden exploring the reuse of materials and resilient planting

Laura Strand and Sam Stark-Kemp met whilst studying for a Diploma in Garden Design at the Norfolk School of Gardening and have since launched Stark Strand Garden Design. Excitingly, their debut garden - ‘Teucer Wilson: Green the Gap Garden’ - was awarded an RHS Gold Medal at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival and the title Best City Pocket Planting. It was also another collaboration with Norfolk roots, featuring local sculptor and stone carver Teucer Wilson’s reimagined off-cuts and unloved pieces of Portland stone as vertical sculptures, echoing the lines of a city skyline. Just as pertinent was the planting, with drought-tolerant plants emerging from recycled concrete mulch, and now is the season to add these to your own borders. ‘Autumn is one of the best times to plant perennials,’ says Sam. ‘The soil is still warm enough for roots to establish before winter sets in, giving plants a strong start, and by spring, they’re ready to grow away quickly, and their well-developed root systems help them cope far better with summer drought.’

Visit…

Hindringham Hall’s gorgeous gardensurrounding the moated Grade II listed Tudor hall - is opening for the National Garden Scheme on 11 October, from 10am to 4pm. Explore the working vegetable garden, formal beds, bog and stream gardens, and Victorian nut walk. Admission £10, children free. Wheelchair access, no dogs. Light refreshments available in aid of Hindringham Church. www.ngs.org.uk

A tolerant trio

We asked Laura and Sam to share three favourite droughttolerant plants from their award-winning design

Helichrysum italicum (Curry Plant): an evergreen sub-shrub with silver-grey foliage and clusters of bright yellow flowers. Its distinctive curry fragrance and drought tolerance make it a perfect choice for Mediterranean-style or gravel gardens. Eryngium agavifolium: an architectural evergreen perennial with bold, sharp-toothed leaves and silvery-green flower heads adored by pollinators. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding structure and drama to a planting scheme.

Thymus lanuginosus (Woolly Thyme): a creeping thyme with a soft, silvery texture that provides excellent ground cover. In summer, it produces delicate mauve flowers that are a magnet for pollinators. Ideal for rockeries, containers, or planting between paving. www.starkstrand.co.uk

Seasonal stunners

Gary Nelson of HortiCo Nursery & Garden Emporium at Drove Orchards, Thornham, shares top picks from his own garden to add autumn colour

Callicarpa bodinieri ‘Profusion’

This large deciduous shrub, (2m-3m), has leaves which turn from green to orange in autumn, but the standout feature is its bright purple berries. As the leaves fall, the berries remain on the stem, largely untouched by birds, delivering a splash of colour through the winter, too.

Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood)

This deciduous plant can be grown as a tree or large multi-stemmed shrub. Known for its outstanding autumn colour, its leaves turn from green through to shades of bright orange, red and purple. Mature plants will have small red flowers in late winter.

Colchicum autumnale (Autumn Flowering Crocus)

These short stemmed flowering bulbs, pictured, are best placed near the edge of a border or can be naturalised in groups in grass. The purple/ lilac flowers appear in early September, brightening any garden, followed by the leaves in late winter, early spring. www.hortico.uk

Hindringham Hall

Callicarpa bodinieri ‘Profusion’

Eryngium agavifolium in their show garden © Joanna Kossak

Sam Stark-Kemp and Laura Strand © Charlotte Gray Photography

The Insider

News and notes from the home front

Art house

Renowned for its mix of original art, ceramics and sculpture (from dogs and Shakespearean characters to birds and more), The Red Dot Gallery in Holt is also a favoured spot for interiors lovers in the know. It’s home to an eclectic collection of homewares and gifts, curated by owner Colin Rawlings, complementing the gallery’s pieces; think luxe velvet cushions from Italy, France and London, beautiful blue and white ceramics, grand carp and lotus Chinese vases, alongside Delft tulipieres and flower-bricks made under license from the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam. Hobnail glass pitchers and a bespoke range of scented candles also feature.

Colin tells us: ‘Now we have opened the new adjoining gallery space, the opportunity to display the art alongside period and contemporary furniture, lighting and yet more cushions is pure joy and beyond indulgence!’

www.thereddotgallery.com

Under the hammer

Keys Fine Art Auctioneers’ final Fine Sale of 2025 takes place on 19, 20 and 21 November. Their three Fine Sales each year feature a varied and prestigious collection of ceramics, glass, oriental items, paintings, jewellery, silver, clocks and watches, furniture and decorative items, as well as the East Anglian Art Sale, the most important auction in the UK of works by artists from our region. Consignments are open for the sale until the fourth week of October. The firm offers free noobligation appraisals and valuations. www.keysauctions.co.uk

On the map

From Hunstanton to Happisburgh, Chris Taylor’s latest print ‘The North Norfolk Underground’ puts our area on the map. The giclée prints are available in A3 and A2, framed or unframed, from £50, exclusively from Make Holt. And there’s a tea towel, too. www.makeholt.com

Shades of autumn

In the know

Who… Established in 1820 as S Norman and Son Ltd, Normans in Great Yarmouth is one of the oldest family-run furniture shops in the UK. Now owned by the eighth generation of the family, it’s the oldest shop in the town, too.

What… From sofas, armchairs, manual and electric recliners to mattresses, beds, wardrobes and chests, living and dining room occasional furniture, Normans stocks an array of contemporary and traditional styles, from brands including Alstons, Cotswold Chair Company, Limelight Beds, and Celebrity Furniture, pictured.

Do… Chat to a member of their friendly and experienced sales team, who are on hand to advise. If you’re looking for a new sofa for instance, they’ll ask whether you have children or pets, the size and layout of your room, whether you want a recliner or standard sofa, fabrics you prefer and so on.

Top tip… do your homework. Measure up before you go, including access to your furniture’s intended home.

www.normansdirect.co.uk

1 GISELA GRAHAM LONDON SPICED PUMPKIN & PATCHOULI CANDLE £14.99, Thistle & Tide; Instagram @thistleandtide

2 SET OF FOUR COASTERS £29, Cape Vanilla; www.capevanilla.co.uk

3 MERINO WOOL CUSHION £78, The Red Dot Gallery; www.thereddotgallery.com

4 EAST END PRESS HONEYCOMB PUMPKIN £22, Pocock’s the artmonger Burnham Market and HortiCo Nursery & Garden Emporium; Instagram @pocockstheartmonger

5 GISELA GRAHAM LONDON ACORN AND CONE FINE GARLAND £9.99, Barefoot Living; www. barefoot-living.co.uk

The Red Dot Gallery

Re-fill it up

Greening up her act

Niobe Wray-Shaw explores the world of sustainable living, meeting planet-friendly local businesses and sharing fantastic Norfolk finds

Small changes like switching to refillable products can make a big difference. I spoke to Jessica Peters who runs Sea of Flowers, a florist in Cromer, and has a refill room of household and personal care products in the shop

What inspired you to start your refill shop?

I have sensitive skin, so I became conscious of avoiding harsh chemicals like parabens which caused irritation. A few years ago, it was difficult to find products without them. I discovered refillables through other small businesses and decided to get some for personal use and to sell within the shop. I started small with UK-made, vegan products in a closedloop system. Even if no one came, I knew I’d use them myself. Luckily, customers loved it and it’s grown into a whole refill room!

high-quality and often cheaper. For example, Fill’s fig leaf hand soap is one of our most popular products. At £3.50 for 500ml, it’s more affordable than many branded soaps out there. It smells lovely, works well, and avoids nasty chemicals.

What are your favourite products in the shop?

I love the Miniml antibacterial surface spray. It’s bleach-free, so I’m not breathing in strong chemicals, and works brilliantly for everyday cleaning. Another favourite is the Scrubber natural deodorant. It’s aluminium-free, made in the UK, and I use it every day - it really works. I love hearing about different brands from customers too and often add new products I’ve been recommended.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about refill shopping? That it’s expensive or the products aren’t as good. In reality, they’re

Food, glorious food!

It’s a bountiful time for fruit and veg, with late summer and autumn crops ready to harvest. I’m enjoying using our garden produce, sharing among neighbours and storing surplus in the freezer. As the weather cools, I love cooking up cosy comfort meals. With so many autumn veggies, now’s the time to experiment! I’ve never cooked celeriac, but Ottilie Sandford, local private chef and caterer at Rabbit & Run, has tempted me to try.

‘I love celeriac for its earthy sweetness and subtle nuttiness,’ says Ottilie. ‘This underrated vegetable shines in the autumn, whether blended into a velvety soup, paired with truffle and hazelnuts, or roasted alongside other roots for a Sunday roast. It makes a show-stopping vegetarian main, hasselback and golden, or roasted whole, proving just how versatile and delicious this humble root can be.’

If someone is just starting their low-waste journey, what swaps would you recommend first?

Hand soap, shampoo, and laundry liquid are good starting points. They’re easy, affordable, and as they’re items we use so often, you soon notice just how much unnecessary plastic you’ve cut down on. You don’t have to start refilling everything - one change makes a big difference!

Visit Jessica’s refill shop at Sea of Flowers on Mount Street, Cromer. Find out more at www.seaofflowers.co.uk or @seaofflowerscromer on Instagram

Squash food waste this Halloween

Millions of pumpkins are wasted each October, so try to use up more of yours this year. Food Savvy - a joint project between Norfolk County Council and Suffolk Waste Partnership - has a great pumpkin recipe book to help. I’ll be trying the Thai soup and the katsu curry! Find out more at www.foodsavvy.org.uk/eat-your-pumpkins

You

Ottilie Sandford of Rabbit & Run

Jessica Peters

Lighten up!

As the seasons turn and the days get shorter, those darker rooms or corners in our homes often shift into the spotlight. Well, from minor tweaks and clever paint choices to smart glazing solutions, Amanda Loose asks the experts to shed some light on the subject

DON’T get me wrong, autumn has much to recommend it, with cosying up at home a real joy of the season. But with the countdown on to the clocks going back, brightening things up interiors wise - be it with natural or artificial lighting - may well be on the agenda. So, we’ve rounded up some tips and tricks for all areas of the home, from budget- and time-friendly hacks to more major modifications. Cracking the colour code is a good start, says Laura Tipple of Tipple & Co Decorators (www. tippleandco.co.uk) in King’s Lynn. ‘Picking the right shade of paint for your space can make a real difference. I advise customers to avoid stark bright whites, for example, but off whites are always a good idea. If you do want a bright or dark colour, only do a feature wall and paint the rest in an off white. In north facing rooms, choose neutral or natural colours. Dulux does a range called Light & Space with lightening technology in the paint, which is designed for darker rooms.

‘Pastel shades can also make spaces look bigger. I recommend Farrow & Ball’s Powder Blue or Calamine, or Norfolk paint brand Fenwick & Tilbrook’s Vintage Peony (my favourite) and Sheringham Beach. Also, change your ceiling colour to a pastel if you want more of a pop.’

Interior designer Nanci Gillett of Burnham Interiors (www.burnhaminteriors.co.uk) has a handy checklist of quick and easy ideas to lighten up a dark living room. ‘As well as painting walls and ceilings in light colours, you can add light coloured or reflective furniture to create a more open, airy feel. If a room has dark floors, adding a bright rug is a simple way to lighten it. Consider changing light bulbs for brighter ones, always making sure that they are warm white. Add lamps to brighten dark corners (there are some great rechargeable ones out there).

‘Mirrors strategically placed opposite or next to windows reflect and increase the natural light throughout the room and sheer curtains are a good option.’

Slatted shutters are also a stylish way to maintain privacy but bring in natural light on your terms. Norwich Sunblinds (www. norwichsunblinds.co.uk) offers a range of made-to-measure shutters which work in both contemporary and traditional schemes, from full height to cafe style. A flexible, easy fit

option is also available.

The team tell me: ‘The adjustable louvre system allows you to tilt slats to your exact preference, welcoming morning sunlight for instance, while maintaining privacy; creating a

soft, filtered glow in the afternoon, then adjust downwards in the evening. Premium materials ensure longevity, while the clean lines create an uncluttered, sophisticated appearance which enhances your home’s architectural features.’

Making the most of neutrals,

Tipple & Co Decorators

Shutters available from Norwich Sunblinds

Living

Taking things one step further, what about our windows and doors themselves? ‘Light-filled homes have always appealed to homeowners, but historically full-height glazing often resulted in significant heat loss,’ says Geoff Parker, managing director of West Norfolk Glass (www.westnorfolkglass.co.uk), a Which? Trusted Trader, in King’s Lynn. ‘Today’s triple glazing fixes this problem with hugely improved energy efficiency, and the premium once associated with the extra pane of glass is far less than most people think.

‘There are many ways to introduce glazing in your home. Extensions which incorporate a glass roof or ceiling lights are a fantastic way to create a light-filled room for everyday living and an area to entertain, often paired with bifold doors that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces. And for older properties with a traditional conservatory or garden room, a new replacement roof that reduces heat loss can transform the area into a year-round usable space.’

Fellow glazing expert Edward Stobart, sales manager at the innovative Norwich-based glazing company IDSystems (www.idsystems. co.uk), explains that modern aluminium framed doors and windows can be ideal for bringing in more natural light. ‘The innate strength of aluminium allows for really slim frames and more glass enabling you to see more of the view out whilst letting more natural light in,’ he says. ‘Modern thermally broken aluminium systems are also incredibly energy efficient and can even achieve Passivhaus standards of performance. For those dreaming of a new open-plan kitchen extension, opting for glazed doors across the back and frameless glass roof lights above are ideal options for drawing more light into your home throughout the day and all through the year.’

Geoff also points out that while many modern homes enjoy an open-plan layout, increasingly homeowners are using aluminium framed glazing internally to zone areas for

different purposes, without compromising on the light-filled look.

But what about that space which requires privacy, often has limited natural light but calls for good lighting? Yes, the bathroom… Phoebe Coldrick-Smith, interior designer at Norfolk Luxury Bathrooms (www. norfolkluxurybathrooms.co.uk), is used to unravelling this conundrum. ‘There’s nothing like sunlight streaming through a bathroom window. It lifts your mood and gives true-to-life colour, ideal for makeup or skincare,’ she says. ‘But bathrooms are often short on natural light, so clever task lighting is essential. Vertical lights

The next level

either side of a mirror, or a backlit mirror, give shadow-free light for shaving or makeup. They can also act as a decorative feature, adding symmetry and style to the room. Recessed downlights in the shower add brightness where daylight doesn’t reach.

‘Subtle touches like recessed niche lighting or under vanity lighting add both practicality and a tailored finish. Independent switching makes a big difference, too; bright task lighting for daily routines, with softer low-level options at night.’

So, from major changes to the smallest budget-friendly switch ups, it really is easier than you might think to get some light relief!

Parked in the hallway or breaking up a room, that utterly essential staircase can sometimes obstruct light flow and indeed be a dim-ish space. Step forward Tim Coombs of Edge Bespoke, which specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke contemporary feature stairs using materials such as powder coated metal, micro-cement, timber and glass.

‘I always say to my clients that having glass balustrades will let more light into the stairwell, as will an open rise or floating staircase,’ he says. ‘A closed rise stair can make the corners of some stairwells darker and a bit dingy, requiring more lighting in that area. But not everyone likes an open rise, as they don’t like looking through the risers and down. In addition, we sometimes install LED lights under the treads at the nosing for an extra feature, brightening up the staircase which looks great.

‘I think our feature staircases always look best when you come through the front door and they are positioned in front of you, enabling the light from the front door and surrounding panels to shine in on the treads.’

www.edgebespoke.co.uk

Above: IDSystems’ sliding doors, sliding window, fixed frame windows and roof light combine to create a light-filled double height extension on the back of this Victorian terraced house © Emil Eve Architects / Taran Wilkhu Photography

Left: Conservatory installation by West Norfolk Glass

Bathroom by Norfolk Luxury Bathrooms

Norfolk by design

From glassware and ceramics to textiles, these are the local independent homeware brands to have on your radar, says Harriet Cooper

Birdie Fortescue

Birdie Fortescue began her interior design journey in the 1980s, working for Colefax & Fowler, before striking out on her own as an antiques dealer. Following a move to Norfolk in 2012, Birdie based her burgeoning business in Burnham Market, expanding it to include decorative homeware and art. Fast forward more than a decade and the luxury brand - now based out of a showroom in Fakenham - is thriving, with its multiple collections incorporating lighting, furniture, home accessories and soft furnishings, as well as collaborations with creatives including Sarah CorbettWinder and Butter Wakefield. www.birdiefortescue.co.uk

IzziRainey

Creative design company IzziRainey was founded in 2014 by Izzi Rainey, who had just graduated from the Glasgow School of Art, and her friend Lara Mullis, on Izzi’s family farm near Foulsham. Designs for their homewares and stationery reflect the farming landscape, as well as local flora and fauna. You’ll find everything from swallows and cattle to Land Rovers and beehives adorning oven gloves, cushions, aprons, hob covers and custom-made blinds. All are made in the UK, with prints using a combination of hand-printing, collage, painting and stamping. www.izzirainey.com

Lottie Day

Norfolk-based textile designer and artist Lottie Day, who grew up in Hindolveston, established her eponymous homeware business after being inspired by the wonky veg growing on her father’s allotment. And so the Vegetable Collection came into being, 100% natural cotton napkins and tea towels screen-printed with Lottie’s hand-drawn illustrations of turnips, swedes and parsnips. Subsequent collections feature seafood and wildlife, reflecting both Lottie’s love of the local countryside and thoughtful craftsmanship. For an autumn spin, check out her Squash Collection of six different designs, including Crookneck, Hubbard, Turban, Sweet Dumpling and Knucklehead. www.lottieday.com

Bombay Sprout

After a one-of-a-kind rug? Look no further than Bombay Sprout. The Burnham Market-based design brand was founded by Zara BolingbrokeKent in 2017, who had spent more than two decades as an interior designer, overseeing commercial and residential projects including at Holkham Hall. Though Zara designs her joyful, rainbow-hued rugs in her studio, they are made in India, a country she has always been deeply passionate about. Rugs are handwoven using centuries-old techniques, each one involving over 20 pairs of hands from spinners to dyers.

www.bombaysprout.com

Kelling Home

Kelling Designs was founded by Emma Deterding in 2006, an interior design studio based in London and Norfolk that has built a reputation for its use of colour, pattern and texture. This vibrant aesthetic ripples through Kelling Home, the homewares offshoot, too. The curated range, available at their shop at Creake Abbey, has been put together in collaboration with leading British fabric houses and product designers. The pieces all showcase the studio’s signature bold hues, statement silhouettes and eye-catching prints, from headboards and lampshades to wallpapers and fabrics.

www.kellinghome.com

Made in Cley

If you see people delicately holding brown paper bags in Cley-next-the-Sea, it’s likely they’ve just paid a visit to Made in Cley. The hand-thrown pottery and contemporary jewellery gallery and studios opened in 1984 in the old village shop. Four decades on, there are now around 10 artists working there, sharing every aspect of the pottery-making process. This is the place to pick up one-ofa-kind homewares, from mugs, butter dishes and garlic pots to salad bowls, flan dishes and colanders (they also do made-to-order). All the stoneware pottery is oven-proof and dishwasher safe.

www.madeincley.co.uk

Homeware by Birdie Fortescue

Lottie Day © Beth Moseley Photography

Kelling Home

Silvy lamp base with Elena suzani shade

Handled stoneware dish by Made in Cley

TOASTED STONEWARE TUMBLERS £35 each,

TABLE TALK Living

Combining greens with earthy browns is one of the pairings of the season, though some might say it’s just a natural selection!

Compiled by Amanda Loose

LARGE

ABOVE: HK LIVING 70s

CERAMICS TAPAS BOWL £9, Bringing the outside

RIGHT: HANDMADE

COASTAL CUP £15, Joyful

Aldiss, Fakenham www.aldiss.com; Barefoot Living, Burnham Market www.barefoot-living.co.uk; Birdie Fortescue, Fakenham www.birdiefortescue.co.uk; Bringing the outside in, Wells www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk; Hive Norfolk, Creake Abbey, North Creake @hivenorfolk; HortiCo Nursery & Garden Emporium, Drove Orchards, Thornham www.hortico.uk; Joyful Living, Drove Orchards, Thornham www.joyfulliving.co.uk; Kelling Home, Creake Abbey, North Creake www.kellinghome.com; Make Holt, Holt www.makeholt.com; Neptune, Holt www.neptune.com; Norfolk Living, Burnham Market www.norfolkliving.co.uk; Ocotillo, Holt and Wells www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk; Tatty Tides, www.tattytides.co.uk; Thornham Deli, Thornham www.thornhamdeli.co.uk

STOCKISTS

EXTRA LARGE MUSHROOM GLUGGLE JUG £46.50, Barefoot Living

GISELA GRAHAM LONDON CERAMIC FERN BOWL £16.95, HortiCo Nursery & Garden Emporium

MADAM STOLTZ WOODEN TRAY £30, Ocotillo

THE SILK ROAD PAISLEY TABLECLOTH £145 (170x250cm), Birdie Fortescue

TAMLIN LUNDBERG

Make Holt

RIGHT: QUAIL’S EGG MUG £11.99, Norfolk Living

RIGHT: COSY HOME GLASS MULTI TUMBLER £8.95, Thornham Deli

SET OF FOUR ACORN EMBROIDERED LINEN NAPKINS £59, Neptune

THE DUGOUT POTTERY BOWL £24 AND PLATE £28, Make Holt

DENBY COLOURS SET OF SIX NATURAL FOLIAGE PLACEMATS £14.99, Aldiss

LITTLE OAK LEAVES TABLE LINEN SET IN PUTTY AND PERIDOT FROM £75, Kelling Home

RUSTIC PLATE FROM £30, Joyful Living

in

Living

LEFT: BORDALLO PINHEIRO

FLORA TAPAS BOWL £19, Thornham Deli

SET OF TWO GREEN PALM CANDLESTICKS £90 excluding candles, Tatty Tides

MADAM STOLTZ JOANNE GLASS JUG £16, Ocotillo

CRACKLE OAK ACORN VASE £120, Hive Norfolk

“Park Home Assist are an excellent insurance company to deal with, very knowledgeable and friendly manner over the phone. Nothing is too much trouble, I would and have recommended them to other people.”

Gather round!

Getting a gang together for a celebration?

Here’s Sarah Hardy’s round up of larger holiday homes perfect for a gathering

Marsh House, Brancaster

This stunning property, set by the marshes at the end of a private driveway, sleeps eight people in four en suite bedrooms. With outstanding views out to sea, the property allows dogs and has both charming indoor and outdoor space, with the large sitting room of particular note. Interestingly, there is also a nearby annexe which sleeps two more in a super king bed. This is luxury living in a truly spectacular setting - you’ll never want to leave those ethereal, watery vistas. www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Salty Bottom, Salthouse

What a cracking position - it is just an eight-minute walk to the beach and a two-minute walk to the pub from this contemporary house! Salthouse is such a pretty village, with a lovely church to explore, and this converted barn, tucked away just off the main coast road, has bright and airy interiors, an enclosed garden and parking. It sleeps eight in four en suite bedrooms, including a downstairs one, and has a large living area, complete with a wood burner. Three dogs allowed. www.bigskiesholidaycottages.co.uk

Sedgeford Hall, Sedgeford

This impressive 1200-acre estate has several properties you can rent out on their own or as a job lot and, when taken together, can accommodate 42 people. So that is a heck of a party! There’s the Main Hall and Theatre which sleeps up to 15, the West Wing which sleeps another 15, Park Cottage which sleeps 12 and all are extremely well equipped, with lots of character. There’s an indoor heated swimming pool plus peaceful gardens, with an outdoor bar in the Gravel Garden. Dogs are welcome, too.

www.sedgefordhall.com

Great East Barn, Barsham Barns

This is a very high spec property, one of eight on the West Barsham Estate; it sleeps 14 and also allows dogs. As with all the holiday lets, the former granary has been kitted out with everything you might need and some - including wonderful fabrics by Flora Soames. Think four posters, rolltop baths, and a very spacious dining area. There is a large private garden complete with hot tub and amazing countryside views. Don’t forget that the Barsham Brewery is part of the Estate, too!

www.barshambarns.co.uk

The East Wing, Wolterton Hall

Enjoy a Downton Abbey lifestyle in the fabulous 18th century Grade I listed Wolterton Hall, situated in 500 acres of rolling countryside which includes a lake and many lovely walks. The East Wing is set over four floors; the rooms are of magnificent proportions with many original features. Look out for the wonderful paintings which adorn the walls, and the chandeliers! It has all the necessary mod cons including a media room and powerful rain showers! It sleeps 14 people and there are five bathrooms. Two dogs are allowed. www.norfolkcottages.co.uk

The Boathouse, Blakeney

Set in the pretty coastal village of Blakeney, this refurbished cobblestone property is just a stone’s throw from the quay and the Norfolk Coast Path, so do pack your walking boots! With plenty of period features inside and a triple tiered garden to the rear, this lightfilled home sleeps 12 and two dogs are welcome by arrangement (downstairs only). The Boathouse boasts a large fully equipped family kitchen and elegant separate dining room for gatherings, but if you don’t feel like cooking, the village is home to some great eateries. www.simplynorfolkstays.co.uk

Marsh House, Brancaster © Steve Adams

Salty Bottom, Salthouse © Steve Adams

The East Wing, Wolterton Hall

The Boathouse, Blakeney

Talk of the town

Join Rachel Bowles for a day in North Walsham, one of Norfolk’s oldest market towns, exploring its rich heritage, bustling market and peaceful surrounding countryside, while following in some rather famous footsteps!

Start your day at Shambles Cafe Bar & Bistro (www.shamblescafenorfolk.co.uk), just off the Market Place in a Grade II listed 17th century building full of character. With exposed beams, a courtyard garden and friendly service, it’s a welcoming place to kick things off. The menu features brunch favourites including full English, shakshuka and a good range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives, alongside fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee. Whether you’re after something hearty or a quick bite, there’s plenty to tempt you. The cafe also supports local artists, with work displayed throughout the year.

Take a gentle stroll or cycle along the North Walsham and Dilham Canal (www.nwdct.org), which opened in 1826 and is Norfolk’s only locked sailing canal. Once busy with wherries carrying goods, today it’s a peaceful route lined with wildflowers and reeds, perfect for spotting kingfishers, dragonflies and other wildlife. The flat towpath is easy-going, and benches provide moments to pause and enjoy the view. If you have time, detour into Pigneys Wood, a Norfolk Wildlife Trust managed nature reserve (www. norfolkwildlifetrust. org.uk) with its meandering woodland paths, ancient trackway and 450-year-old oak tree. North Walsham is also an intersection point for the Weavers Way and Paston Way, with walking route guides available on North Walsham Town Council’s website at www.nwtc.org.uk/local-walks

Step inside St Nicholas’, Norfolk’s largest wool church. The tower is said to have been the second tallest in Norfolk until its partial collapse in 1724. Today, visitors can admire the church’s medieval stonework, colourful stained glass and tranquil chapels. A short stroll away, a plaque at Paston College honours Admiral Lord Nelson, who studied here from 1768 to 1771, later becoming one of Britain’s greatest naval heroes.

The Market Cross

Shambles Cafe Bar & Bistro

Pigneys Wood © Steve Cox

St Nicholas Church and tower

Wander through the Thursday Market, a tradition dating back to 1275, when North Walsham was granted the right to hold a weekly market by Royal Charter of Henry III. Stalls fill the Market Place with fresh produce, Norfolk cheeses, plants and gifts, set around the Grade I listed Market Cross which dates from the early 17th century, replacing an earlier building which was destroyed by the Great Fire of North Walsham in 1600. Managed by the town council, the market remains a vibrant part of community life.

Discover more of North Walsham’s story at the Heritage Centre (www. northwalshamheritage.org.uk), tucked inside the Saddlers Rooms. This compact but fascinating free museum traces the town’s medieval wool trade, its role in the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt and the rise of North Walsham as a busy market hub for surrounding villages. Exhibits include historic maps, shop signs and a rotating display of photographs and memorabilia. Run by dedicated volunteers, it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in Norfolk’s rich history.

Stay active with a visit to the Victory Swim and Fitness Centre, managed by Everyone Active (www. everyoneactive.com). The modern facility features a spacious swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and bright studio hosting a wide range of classes, from yoga and low impact sessions to high energy workouts. Families can enjoy dedicated fun swim sessions with floats and inflatables, and accessible features including a pool lift ensure everyone can take part. It is a great choice for keeping fit, trying a new class, or simply relaxing with a swim. North Walsham also celebrates sporting success as the hometown of England women’s footballer Lauren Hemp, a source of pride for the local community.

Detour to the Norfolk Motorcycle Museum (www.norfolkmotorcyclemuseum.co.uk), which showcases more than 100 classic and vintage bikes. Run by passionate volunteers, the museum offers an intimate look at British motorcycling history, with well-preserved machines and fascinating stories behind the makers.

Catch a show at Black Swan Loke (www. newstages.co.uk), a friendly community pub and theatre venue with a calendar of live performances. From comedy nights and music gigs to small-scale plays, there’s always something entertaining to enjoy. The intimate setting makes every show feel personal, and you can enjoy a drink in the bar afterwards. Check the website for current listings.

End your day at the award-winning Beechwood Hotel (www.beechwood-hotel. co.uk), just a short walk from the town centre. Its rooms are individually styled with antique furnishings and thoughtful touches. The Art Deco restaurant serves seasonal Norfolk dishes, and throughout the hotel you’ll find Agatha Christie memorabilia. Guests can also relax in the reading room, stocked with all of Christie’s novels, a fitting tribute to the crime writer who stayed here in the 1930s, when it was a private house.

Beechwood Hotel’s Art Deco restaurant

The Victory Swim and Fitness Centre

ALLEN TOMAS & CO JOINS FAIRSTONE FAMILY

Norfolk financial advisers Allen Tomas & Co are set for further growth after becoming part of one of the UK’s most trusted wealth management firms

Headed by independent financial planners

Ben Allen and Michael Crisp, Allen Tomas & Co has been providing a range of investment, retirement planning and wealth management services to individuals and businesses from its office in Dersingham, Norfolk, since 2014.

Allen Tomas & Co has now become part of Fairstone, a major national wealth management firm with over 1,250 staff which provides services to more than 60,000 wealth clients and manages £20bn of client assets.

Ben Allen, Business Principal and Chartered Financial Planner at Allen Tomas & Co, said: “We’re delighted to have become part of the Fairstone group.

“Fairstone’s focus on putting the client first was so important for us – joining Fairstone means that our current clients will be able to benefit from the support, reassurance and IT capabilities of a major national firm while still getting personalised advice informed by our local knowledge and understanding of the area.

“Importantly, Michael and I will retain our Chartered Independent status, meaning that we will continue to provide unbiased financial advice to clients and recommend products from the whole of market.

“And with Fairstone’s head office team providing support on compliance and regulatory matters, it frees up more of our time to concentrate on advising clients, growing the business and working closely with professional connections.”

Allen Tomas & Co currently advises more than 260 clients and manages £120m worth of client assets.

As well as Ben and Michael, the firm employs four support staff, who will also become part of the Fairstone Group.

The firm is looking to expand further under the Fairstone banner by taking advantage of Fairstone’s London-based in-house investment management team and its size in the market.

Ben Allen said: “Having an expert investment management team in the City that we can rely on and trust makes a real difference. This in turn provides our clients with access to Fairstone’s investment solutions which are tailored to their differing needs and objectives.

“Fairstone’s ability to use its scale and negotiate competitive terms with fund providers helps improve long-term value to our clients.

Russell Bignall, Group Managing Director at Fairstone, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Ben, Michael and the rest of the team to Fairstone.

“Together they have built a practice which really looks after its clients while providing first-class services.

“We look forward to working with the team to grow the business further and offer high quality advice to even more people across Norfolk and the wider area.”

Fairstone is one of the fastest growing financial services organisations in the UK and Ireland.

It operates from more than 50 different locations and is aiming to double client assets under management to £40bn over the next five years.

Fairstone is independently ranked one of the most trusted wealth management firms on Trustpilot with over 13,500 five-star reviews.

The firm’s investment management arm administers a range of managed portfolios. Fairstone has maintained a 5-star Defaqto rating for their core model portfolios for seven consecutive years.

Please call 01485 541998 to book an appointment with Independent Financial Advisers Ben Allen and Michael Crisp.

Welcome to the family – (left) Fairstone Investment Director Oliver Stone and (right) Fairstone Group Managing Director Russell Bignall with (from second left) Ben Allen and Michael Crisp.

Food & Drink The Digest

Sarah Hardy serves up the latest food and drink news

Tuck in!

Norfolk’s largest dining experience, Norfolk Restaurant Week in association with Norfolk Hideaways, draws closer, offering you the chance to try somewhere new or return to an old favourite. It runs from 3 to 7 November and from 10 to 14 November, so not the weekends. More than 50 restaurants are set to take part, including The Glaven Bistro at Glandford, The Rose and Crown at Harpley, Briarfields at Titchwell, The Lodge, Old Hunstanton, and The Golden Lion in Hunstanton, pictured. Participating eateries offer special fixed price menus during the event of either two courses for £20 and three for £25, or two courses for £27 and three for £33, depending on the venue. Booking is advisable. www.norfolkrestaurantweek.co.uk; www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Sky, sand, sea

Congratulations to Cromer artist Samuel Thomas whose colourful artwork features on the new cans of Eisberg’s no alcohol sparkling rosé and white wine. Sam’s artwork, which decorates the Whitewater cafe in Cromer, was chosen because it bursts with colour, character and life. The wines, available in the cafe and via Amazon (£6 for a pack of four), are very quaffable, too - and there’s no hangover! www.eisberg.co.uk

Fika feeling

Who’s tried the new plant and coffee shop, Fika at Seven, in Cromer? Based in Church Street, it looks like a really cool place as you can enjoy coffee, cakes, pastries and also buy a rather gorgeous houseplant while you are at it. There’s a Scandi vibe as fika is a Swedish ritual of spending time with family and friends, usually with a coffee and a sweet treat. Sounds like they’ve got it about right. It is very dog friendly, too. More reports, please.

Find them on Facebook

Creake Abbey’s Christmas Gift Fair is on 22 November, from 10am to 3pm. In true festive fashion, expect gifts for all ages and for fourlegged friends, from jewellery, art, ceramics, glassware and antiques, to cards, decorations, clothing, ironwork and gardenalia. Seasonal treats from a curated selection of Creake’s Farmers’ Market regulars will add to the atmosphere. A small, voluntary charge may be levied on departure.

www.creakeabbey.co.uk

’Tis almost the season…

Yes, it’s starting to make its presence felt, isn’t it? It may be the best part of three months away, but Christmas is looming and several of our favourite foodie haunts are up and running with their festive plans. Briarfields at Titchwell has its usual exciting offerings, from an excellent festive afternoon tea, to a Christmas lunch, to holiday stays. And then there are their party nights - which are fun filled to say the least. Start getting your outfits ready! www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk

Diary date

Norfolk Lavender is holding a Christmas Market on 29 November, provisionally from noon until 8pm. Expect seasonal food stalls, lavender-infused mulled wine and cider, music and a few surprises. Admission is free but parking is £4. In the meantime, there’s a Wickedly Scrumptious Afternoon Tea for younger members of the family planned for 1 November, in collaboration with The Magic of a Princess parties, complete with cupcake decorating, a live singalong and more! Check out Instagram @norfolk_lavender for more details.

Creake Abbey Gift Fair © Beth Moseley Photography Fair dos

The beer’s on him

David Holliday of Moon Gazer Brewery in Hindringham starts another terrific fundraiser for the Norwich-based charity, It’s On The Ball, which aims to raise awareness about testicular cancer. Called Beerpush 2025, David aims to complete seven ultra-marathons in just seven days, starting on 1 October, all while pushing a 75kg barrel of beer. Sounds crazy, we agree! The distance covered will be 350 kilometres and he is following a 50-kilometre route around Norwich. All support is more than welcome. www.itsontheball.org

Happy birthday

Congratulations to Richard Bainbridge and all the team at Benedicts in Norwich as they celebrate their 10th birthday. The city centre restaurant, on St Benedicts Street, goes from strength to strength and if you’ve never had his Nanny Bush’s trifle - what are you waiting for? www.restaurantbenedicts.com

Off to market

Aylsham Country Market, the largest one in Norfolk, celebrated its 50th anniversary this summer with a special party. The cooperative social market runs every Friday, from 8.30am until noon, in the Town Hall, and sells a fine selection of eggs, cakes, savouries, bread, pies, chutneys, plants, crafts and vegetables. There’s also a cafe which serves hot drinks, bacon rolls and scones. Reepham Country Market is another fine example, bursting with home grown, handmade and hand-crafted goodies. It runs every Wednesday, from 8am to 11am, in the Bircham Centre and offers a variety of fresh, seasonal products (the plums in late August were divine) plus a regular range of cakes and traybakes. As Christmas approaches, it’s the place for puddings, too! Find them on Facebook

Look out for Wild Knight Distillery’s cask-filled vodka, with an ABV of 47 per cent. It costs £50 per 70cc bottle and has that trademark silkiness! Serve neat, on ice or as part of a cocktail. www.wildknightdistillery.co.uk

Busy times

www.englishwhisky.co.uk

There’s also the new, Special Edition SS Vina Brancaster Navy Strength Gin, with an ABV of 57 per cent so it packs a punch. It’s described as a fresh gin, with citrus notes and has a dreamy label by local artist Harry Cory Wright. £59.50 per bottle. www.brancasterdrinks.co.uk

The Glaven Bistro at Glandford is gearing up for a busy autumn with a new menu, showcasing the best of Norfolk produce such as Staithe Smokehouse, HV Graves meats, Chet Valley and Burn Valley wines and Barsham Brewery beers. Owners Carron and James Noon are keen to hear from other local suppliers interested in featuring in their dishes. Add in monthly jazz evenings and other regular musical events - have you seen the piano in there? - and there is much to enjoy. There’s plenty of free parking, it’s dog friendly and you can also enjoy the other shops and galleries at this increasingly interesting site. www.theglavenbistro.com

Titbits

Did you know that Wells Crab House now has a little takeaway called Hook? Opening Tuesday to Sunday, it offers seafood rolls, platters and salads; Titchwell Manor has been sold to the Chestnut group - now a really serious player on the region’s food scene; we love the sound of Maldon Chocolates in Hunstanton, which sells luxurious, handmade chocolates with their gift boxes really catching the eye; Bray’s Cottage Pork Pies has a new owner, Essence Foods, run by Sarah, Edward and Archie Savage, as founder Sarah Pettegree retires but we are promised business as usual; The Workshop cafe, part of the Fring Estate, is gearing up to open soon so watch this space for more - the photos of the outside space are very tempting and the building itself, a former barn, oozes character; there’s a new pudding shop on Cromer’s Hamilton Road, Norfolk Crumble, opening soon.

David Holliday

Titchwell Manor

English Whisky has launched The Founders’ Private Cellar Single Cask Release which has been aged for 18 years in a rum cask. It’s something special at £395 a bottle and the oldest release to date from the distillery near Attleborough.

INDEPENDENT BOOKSHOP

57a The Market Place, Burnham Market, PE31 8HD (Behind The Great Outdoors) (01328) 738273

Food & Drink

Small but tasty

Small plates, Norfolk tapas, picky bits - call them what you will but they are the current hot foodie trend, says Sarah Hardy

PICK

and mix dishes - that chance to try several so-called small plates - are all the rage as we love to sample different flavours. Here’s our round up of where to try

Suffield Arms, Thorpe Market

This achingly trendy place, run by the team behind the nearby Gunton Arms, is a cool spot for exciting tapas dishes which take their influences from Spain, Italy and the Middle East. The menu changes regularly as it is very seasonal, but padron peppers feature often and you usually see a harissa lamb with flatbread on the menu. Seafood is a key feature (there’s often octopus) and patatas bravas crop up, too. Cocktails are delicious - the seasonal Margaritas are great - and do inspect the artwork as the place is owned by art dealer Ivor Braka who displays some pretty edgy pieces - the loos are always worth a look! www.suffieldarms.com

Socius, Burnham Market

The grandfather of them all! Dan Lawrence and Natalie Stuhler opened this market leader in Foundry Place in 2018 and haven’t looked back since. Dishes are always seasonal and super fresh and, most importantly, just burst with flavour. How about home-cured salmon, beetroot, horseradish and dill, or mushroom arancini, sun dried tomato and parmesan? They’ve just started to work with the Raynham Estate, so expect some delicious dishes featuring their Aberdeen Angus beef on the menu, too. It’s a relaxed place, light and airy, with very good cocktails and everything is cooked from scratch. www.sociusnorfolk.co.uk

The Victoria, Holkham

The dog friendly Victoria, at the heart of the Estate, makes the very best use of its produce, from fruits and vegetables from the Walled Garden to its legendary venison. Head chef Michael Chamberlain has achieved two AA Rosettes for his endeavours, and the small plates menu is a very welcome addition to their lunch offering. Think mussel fritters with citrus mayonnaise, prawn and chorizo skewers with red onion and chilli salsa, and patatas bravas. Service is impeccable here, and don’t forget that you can stay over - there are 20 bedrooms available - plus those new super luxury shepherd huts! www.holkham.co.uk

M’s of Aylsham

The Pigs, Edgefield

Look out for Iffits on the menu at this popular pub/spa/restaurant - the Pigs’ Norfolk version of tapas. They are pretty hearty - think Norfolk rollmops, a ham hock, burnt leek and Colman’s mustard terrine, crispy whitebait and the Pigs’ pork and black pudding sausage roll. There are also Piggy Pieces to share which might include proper crackling, cornichons and mini farmhouse loaves but one thing is for certainyou won’t go home hungry! There’s a friendly, family feel to this popular place and, just whisper it, but the puddings are great, too. www.thepigs.org.uk

This fun, funky place was opened by Emma Payne in 2022 to offer cocktails and tapas. Emma (who is handily married to local butcher Johnny Payne of Coxfords) says she uses Norfolk produce wherever possible, with dishes including classics such as patatas bravas, scallops with bacon lardons and a butter sauce, and tiger prawns cooked in chilli and garlic. So it’s a case of mix and match and tuck in! Add in an extensive wine list with tipples from Winbirri and Chet Valley and beers from Moon Gazer and Duration - plus those ever-popular grazing boards (the cheese one is a winner) which are great to share, too.

www.msofaylsham.co.uk

M’s of Aylsham

Dishes from The Victoria’s small plates menu © Holkham Estate

Socius cured salmon with horseradish and beetroot

Tapas dishes at the Suffield Arms

Under the grill

Sarah Hardy meets four longstanding and innovative local chefs

NORFOLK has long been a leading light on the country’s foodie map, with its fishing and farming heritage. North Norfolk especially has provided us with some restaurants where the head chefs dictate trends while paying homage to local produce and food traditions.

MICHAEL CHAMBERLAIN IS HEAD CHEF AT THE VICTORIA, HOLKHAM

How long have you worked here?

I joined in 2017, and I’ve loved shaping a menu that really reflects our coast and estate. How would you describe your style of cooking?

Modern British with strong classical English and French roots - seasonal, ingredient-led and uncomplicated, letting local produce do the talking. Where did you train?

I cut my teeth at The Jolly Sailors in Brancaster Staithe, then trained at the College of West Anglia in King’s Lynn. Those early years taught me craft, graft and respect for ingredients, especially fish and game.

Name two dishes on your menu this autumn Estate venison haunch with Lyonnaise potatoes, kale, pumpkin purée and port jus; cherry brandy cured salmon with horseradish sour cream and caperberries. What’s your favourite local ingredient?

If I have to pick one, it would be Holkham Estate venison which lets us cook truly field-tofork. We use the whole animal and showcase different cuts through the season. How many are in the kitchen with you?

We run a small, tight brigade of around eight chefs (working with four per shift), led by me and my senior sous. It’s a calm, supportive kitchen - big on craft, consistency and mentoring - with specialists across pastry, larder and the hot line. We taste together before every service and keep the communication clear; no drama, just good cooking. What do you like to eat at home?

Simple, hearty food with the family, such as slow-cooked pork belly with greens. I’m also fond of one-pan stews, roast chicken at the weekend, and something sweet using seasonal fruit I have harvested. And I’ll admit a chip butty sneaks in now and again. Do you have a favourite chef who inspires you?

Marco Pierre White made a big impact on me early on. I worked for him for three years and he gave me my first head chef role in 2013. His focus on flavour and discipline still guides me today. I’m also constantly inspired by our local producers and the Norfolk coast itself.

www.holkham.co.uk

GEMMA ARNOLD IS EXECUTIVE HEAD CHEF AT THORNHAM DELI, THORNHAM

How long have you worked here?

I have held this position for 11 years, but I have worked for the same bosses for 17 years.

How would you describe your style of cooking?

I like everything so it is really a universal style. Our menu spans English, Thai, Indian, and Spanish dishes. I tend to adapt the menu according to the availability of local produce.

Where did you train?

After studying at college, I trained with Matthew OwsleyBrown at the famous Fishes seafood restaurant at Burnham Market. Matthew ran it with his wife, Caroline, from 2001 until 2009.

Name two dishes on your autumn menu

This autumn we’ll serve Thai green prawn curry and local Brancaster mussels which are right in season. I think that shows how diverse our menu is, too.

What’s your favourite local ingredient?

Staithe Smokehouse’s smoked salmon which I use in several dishes. It is produced just up the road.

How many are in the kitchen with you?

There are six of us working a weekly seven-day rota with two of those part time. One is my cousin and the other is my aunt who has followed me wherever I have worked. I am very proud to say that the team has worked together for most of the 11 years that the deli has been open and we are a very tight unit - with only the odd disagreement! What do you like to eat at home?

My partner is also a chef, so we are both usually ‘fooded out’ by the time we get home. However, during the quieter winter months, we tend to go for slow cook casserole dishes which are ready for when we get home. Do you have a favourite chef who inspires you?

Matthew Owsley-Brown was a big inspiration - he was a sous chef for Rick Stein whose style of cooking also inspires me.

www.thornhamdeli.co.uk

Michael Chamberlain, Head Chef at The Victoria, Holkham © Peter Naylor

Gemma Arnold, Executive Head Chef, Thornham Deli

Food & Drink

STUART TATTERSALL IS HEAD CHEF AT THE GUNTON ARMS, THORPE MARKET

How long have you worked here?

I’ve been at The Gunton Arms since day one, joining as Opening Head Chef in 2011.

How would you describe your style of cooking?

It is ingredient-led Norfolk country cooking. I love bold, satisfying flavours and the kind of food that makes people feel at home. The Elk Room’s open fire is at the heart of itwhether it’s venison, beef or game, the flame adds a depth of flavour that you just can’t imitate. Where did you train?

I was born and raised in Rochdale, Lancashire, and started my career in kitchens in Manchester, Leeds and London including a spell working with Mark Hix, which really deepened my appreciation for seasonal British cooking. I spent time cooking on private yachts in the South of France, before heading to Australia. Those experiences, combined with my Northern roots, have shaped my approach in the kitchen today.

Name two dishes on your autumn menu Roast partridge with elderberries and Norfolk toast; sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream - a Gunton Arms classic. What’s your favourite local ingredient? It’s a tie between venison from our own deer park and Cromer crab. The venison is unbeatable in quality and flavour, and the crab is sweet, delicate, and unmistakably North Norfolk.

How many are in the kitchen with you?

There are 12 chefs in our brigade. Most of our team have been with me for more than 10 years, and some have worked their way up from kitchen porter to chef de partie. It’s a skilled and committed crew.

What do you like to eat at home?

I keep things simple: roast chicken or a good curry. It’s all about comfort and ease after a long day on the stoves.

Do you have a favourite chef who inspires you?

Pierre Koffmann has been a huge inspiration. His cooking is rooted in deep knowledge and technique, yet full of heart.

www.theguntonarms.co.uk

How long have you worked here?

I will have been here 20 years on 20 October 2025. I became head chef in 2014 and it’s been quite a journey.

How would you describe your style of cooking? I enjoy using fresh, seasonal, local produce

and I love to let the ingredients do the talking without too much fuss. I also love the traditional way of cooking that my mum taught me, but I do keep abreast of current trends, too. Where did you train?

I am originally from Stamford in Lincolnshire, and I attended Stamford College, where I achieved a Diploma in Hospitality and Catering. I completed a work experience placement at Morston Hall Hotel, and I went on a two-year placement in America. A job then became available at The White Horse and I worked my way up!

What’s your favourite local ingredient?

I have three: Staithe Smokehouse smoked salmon - I should say that my husband, Phil, and I run this company and we have a shop in the grounds of The White Horse; Brancaster Staithe mussels and oysters.

Name two dishes on your autumn menu Brancaster Staithe mussels - you can practically see where they grow from our conservatory restaurant window; Staithe Smokehouse Salmon, rye bread, avocado and cucumber starter.

How many are in the kitchen with you?

In the low season there is a core team of 12 chefs and kitchen porters, but this rises to around 30 in the peak season. They are a fabulous bunch of guys and girls as we really need to work as a team.

What do you like to eat at home?

Phil and I eat a lot of Asian food. My hours are long and it is quick to cook, healthy and we love the fresh flavours.

Do you have a favourite chef who inspires you? I really admire Nathan Outlaw and Tom Brown as their dishes are simple but really pack a punch. I follow a lot of chefs on social platforms, so I guess this medium is my current inspiration.

www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk

FRAN HARTSHORNE IS EXECUTIVE HEAD CHEF AT THE WHITE HORSE, BRANCASTER STAITHE

Stuart Tattersall, Head Chef, The Gunton Arms

Fran Hartshorne, Executive Head Chef, The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe

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Fun at Betty’s

Sarah Hardy finds out more about Betty’s Club in Burnham Market, which is aimed at those living with dementia and their families

WITH an estimated 19,000 people living with dementia in Norfolk, and 2000 of those in North Norfolk, the need for support for both those with the condition and their carers is increasing.

Betty’s Club, which launched officially this autumn, has been going for just over a year and aims to provide help and, most importantly, fun for those with dementia and their care givers. It is based in a purpose-built building which is part of The Burnhams Surgery - and is funded by them, too, explains project lead Sarah Reed.

‘The new surgery was funded by a legacy, and then a wonderful woman called Betty Sargent left money for the building we are in - it has two storeys and a sensory garden. We occupy the ground floor and we love it! And we named the club after Betty, of course.’

The club is open to all, regardless of where anyone lives, and members don’t need to have an NHS referral - and it’s free. Sarah says that there are just under 35 members at present, which includes both those with dementia and their carers. ‘People are aged from their early 60s upwards,’ she says.

The club operates a bespoke service, with activities tailored to what members like doing. But there are a couple of regular activities including a Wednesday art session and singing on Fridays. ‘And we can garden every day,’ she adds. ‘We also hold workshops for the care givers as they are the ones who need support.’

She explains that anyone interested in becoming a member can simply get in touch with her. ‘It is usually the carer who makes contact, and we meet up and we all then have a really good chat.’ Sarah works out life stories for each person with dementia so she knows what they like or are interested in to ensure that they have a fulfilling experience. ‘We are a close-knit group and it is very exciting to work with them all, and they are very appreciative.’

Sarah, who became interested in dementia care after looking after her own mother, is passionate about how people living with dementia are treated and is very keen to stress that a good quality of life can be enjoyed by all. ‘I’m fed up with how those with dementia are treated like second class citizens,’ she says. ‘That they are somehow strange or different.’

She speaks with great affection about the club’s members, and continually emphasises the fun nature of the activities. ‘We do lark about,’ she laughs. ‘People need to realise that

they don’t have to be trapped in their homesthat they can come and enjoy themselves with us. Dementia is a terminal illness, but you can live with it very well indeed.’

While the club is supported by The Burnhams Surgery, Sarah is always interested in fundraising opportunities and grateful for any and all donations. ‘We started quietly and slowly as I wanted to make sure we got everything right and didn’t make any huge mistakes. But now we want to let people know we are here! We have been lucky with donations, and the support of the surgery, but we don’t receive any grants, and we are never sure what the future holds so all support is very welcome.’

Sarah, who attended art college before pursuing a career helping those with dementia, including working with Age UK and The Social Care Institute for Excellence, a charity designed to improve people’s lives, is keen to set up more clubs across Norfolk. ‘Yes, I’m very eager to develop them; I do think there is a need.’

You can email Sarah at sarah.reed @bettysclub.org.uk; www.bettysclub.com

‘People need to realise that they don’t have to be trapped in their homesthat they can come and enjoy themselves with us.’ Sarah Reed, Betty’s Club project lead

A snapshot of the activities table

Sarah Reed; the troughs house vegetables grown by members. Some of their produce won prizes at The Burnhams Flower Show