Out and about Heacham, Sedgeford and Ringstead
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ourtyard Farm in Ringstead (above) is an excellent example of a thriving organic farm producing arable crops and meat. But not only do the stringent policies on growing ensure that livestock lives the best possible life, the surrounding wildlife is also cared for as part of the farm’s environmental aims. Public access is encouraged via two waymarked 2-mile circular walks and one 6-mile walk around the farm on public footpaths. From the North Wood circular walk there are two visible pieces of permanent land art by artists Martha Winter and John Sands. There are several parking places on the farm (some near leaflet dispensers with maps of the farm and walks) and maps are also available from the website at www.courtyardfarm.co.uk
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t Andrew’s at Ringstead (above) is an imposing, heavily-restored 14th century church, and it has some fascinating features – from the big angry gargoyles to the massive chimney in the northeast corner. Before you rush to enjoy the interior, however, take a moment to look above the massive 19th century niche above the porch (circled, above). Below the statue of Christ, in large, unmissable letters, is carved the inscription I AM THE DOOR. Now there’s a thing.
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or a village store like no other, try Hidden Treasures in Ringstead’s general store (left). As you’d expect, all the usual essentials are for sale, but while you nip in for a lastminute pint of milk, why not also browse for an 18th century figurine or piece of collectable glassware? The building is a rabbit warren of 12 small rooms offering hundreds of antiques of every imaginable kind. The layout is as curious and charming as the items on the shelves! It isn’t a typical antique shop and you’re left to browse the realistically-priced items at your leisure. Ringstead is a beautiful little village and no trip would be complete without a visit to this interesting shop.
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well known local landmark in Ringstead is Magazine Cottage (above), which was built in the 17th century by the Le Strange family and used as a gunpowder store during the English Civil War. It was believed (at the time) that a hidden tunnel ran between the cottage and the church.
KLmagazine October 2011