Best of Norfolk 2016

the best of

NORFOLK YOUR ANNUAL GUIDE TO THIS UNIQUE COUNTY

bestnorfolk.com

JANUARY – DECEMBER 2016

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the best of

NORFOLK Whatever the weather, it’s always a good time to visit Norfolk.

Whether you’re local resident, or a first-time visitor, you’ll never be short of things to do!

The Best of Norfolk, the county’s leading annual visitor guide, is spoilt for choice when it comes to what’s happening locally. Even if you’ve lived here all your life, you may still be surprised at some of the hidden treasures on your own doorstep. It’s time to put down your smartphone, forget the stresses of modernday life and re-connect with your surroundings. Norfolk offers visitors and locals alike the chance to enjoy all of the wonderful attractions on offer in this beautiful part of the country.

Norfolk is a picturesque location, with its flat, coastal areas contrasting with an undulating inland landscape, making it ideal for exploring. If you enjoy outdoor pursuits, such as cycling or coastal walks, you won’t be disappointed. Choose from plenty of footpaths, through terrain which includes open meadows, forest trails and cliff-top paths.

There are also numerous country pubs for refreshments en route!

Norfolk prides itself on serving good food, prepared with locally-produced ingredients. In fact, there are many farm shops, delis and independent butchers and fishmongers, providing award-winning food to suit all tastes.

If your passion is retail therapy rather than relaxation, there are plenty of excellent places to shop. In addition to Norwich, Norfolk has an array of charming market towns, with Holt and Burnham Market both being famous for their independent shops.

With a perfect mix of bespoke boutiques and cafés, all pride themselves on excellent customer service.

Enjoy using this guide to discover what’s on offer. Whether you’re looking for a special item of local craftsmanship, interested in the arts, looking for award-winning fish and chips, planning on visiting a

lively market selling local produce, or you’re simply seeking a crackling fire and locally-brewed pint, Norfolk has it all.

A lot of visitors to Norfolk enjoy the experience so much, they want to come and live here! We’re very proud that Norfolk offers a happier, healthier way of life, with its great outdoors - and it’s also bursting at the seams with history and culture. Whatever your passion, we hope you enjoy discovering it as much as we do.

Jonathan Tilston Publisher Follow us on twitter: @BestNorfolk Facebook: The best of Norfolk Blog: bestnorfolk.com Instagram: bestnorfolk1

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County of

Norfolk

North Norfolk p8 North Norfolk is a special destination, whatever the season.

Enjoy miles of unspoilt coastline, internationally-important nature reserves and amazing wildlife. It’s ideal for walking or riding, with a host of beautiful views. Feast on some of the many local delicacies and picnic on one of north Norfolk’s enchanting beaches. In summer, there are many fetes and carnivals to enjoy, or simply relax Hunstanton Hunstanton and enjoy the tranquility of this enchanting county.

Brancaster Bay Brancaster Bay

Brancaster Brancaster

Burnham Market nextBurnham the Sea Market Holme nextHolme the Sea

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A149

KING'S KING'S A148 A148 LYNN LYNNA149

Terrington Terrington St ClementSt Clement Clenchwarton Clenchwarton

Bawsey

A17

A17

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Stanhoe Thursford Thursford West Barsham West Barsham SculthorpeSculthorpe

A148

West WinchWest Winch A47

Terrington Terrington St John St John

A10

Hillington Hillington

Litcham

Marham

ShouldhamShouldham South Runcton Thorpe Thorpe South Runcton

Emneth

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Outwell Upwell

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A1075

A1065

Little Little Watton HilboroughHilboroughCressingham Cressingham Bodney

Hilgay A134

Southery Southery

Watton

Hingha Scoulton Scoulto

Welney

Northacre Northacre

Bodney

A134

Great Ellingha Great Ellingham

Brookville Brookville Methwold Methwold Cranwich Cranwich

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Necton

Whittington Whittington Stoke FerryStoke Ferry

Lakes End Lakes End A1101

Necton

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Wereham

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Stradsett Stradsett

Upwell

Welney

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A10

Outwell

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A1101

Marham

Swanton Swanto Beetley Morle Morley

Litcham Beetley

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Castle AcreCastle Acre

A47

A134

Ickburgh Ickburgh

Breckles

MundfordMundford

A10

Feltwell

Feltwell

Thetford Thetford Forest Forest Park Park A1065

Hockwold HockwoldWeeting cum Wiltoncum Wilton

Weeting

A1065

A1075

Breckles

A1075

Great Hockham Great Hockham Puddled Stonebridge Stonebridge

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A11

A134

Larling

A134

Bridgham Bridgham

Central Norfolk and The Brecks p95 Central Norfolk is renowned for its unique, charming market towns, such as Swaffham, with its fine Georgian architecture.

Located in the Brecks, an area rich in natural beauty, Swaffham hosts a thriving Saturday market and farmers’ markets, on the third Sunday of the month. Pick up some locally-made cider in autumn, or some sumptuous heritage apples. Stretching across mid-Norfolk is Thetford Forest. With its winding, natural trails, you could have stepped back in time 2,000 years!

4 the best of NORFOLK

Twyford

North Fo Elmham

Billingford Billingfor

Narborough Narborough

Emneth

Brisley North Elmham

Brisley Stanfield Stanfield

AshwickenAshwicken Bawsey Gayton Gayton

Middleton Middleton Pentney Pentney

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Twyford

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A1065

WeasenhamWeasenham All Saints All Saints

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South Raynham South Raynham

A1065

Grimston Grimston

Tottenhill Tottenhill Watlington Watlington

Bri

A1067

A1067

A10

A134

Kettlestone Kettlestone A148

A148

Harpley East Raynham East Raynham West Raynham West Raynham

Harpley A148

East WinchEast Winch A47

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Coxford Hempton Coxford Hempton Fakenham Fakenham West Rudham West Rudham Toftrees Toftrees East Rudham East Rudham

Flitcham

Flitcham North North Wootton Wootton

Letheri

South Creake South Creake

SnettishamSnettisham Bircham Newton Bircham Newton Bircham Tofts Bircham Tofts Ingoldisthorpe Ingoldisthorpe Great Great Bircham Bircham DersinghamDersingham

Sandringham Sandringham

The unassuming beauty of West Norfolk may be overlooked by visitors drawn to the county’s more celebrated regions, but West Norfolk has much to offer, including the breathtaking Sandringham Estate, the country retreat of HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. Late spring and early summer are perfect for visiting the 100acre Norfolk Lavender Farm at Heacham, or Hunstanton - known as “Sunny Hunny” with its famous striped cliffs, sandy beaches, rock pools and boat trips to watch seals at play.

Docking Stanhoe

Sedgeford Sedgeford

The The WashWash

Morston

StiffkeyBlaken

Stiffkey

North Creake North Creake Docking

Heacham Heacham

West Norfolk p150

Holkham BayHolkham Bay

Burnham Burnham Wells-nextWells-nextHolkham Holkham Norton Norton A149 A149 the-sea the-sea Morston

THETFORD THETFORD A1066

A1066

East Harling

A11

Larling

East Harlin

So Lop Garboldisham Garboldisham

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East Norfolk and The Broads p134

Cley next the Sea

Sheringham

Weybourne

A149

Blakeney

Beeston Regis A148

Holt

Letheringsett

Cromer

Bodham

Sharrington

Roughton

Mundesley

North

Thorpe Market

Thornage Briningham

Edgefield

Bacton

Knapton

A140

Briston

A149

Sea

Walcott

Swafield

Saxthorpe

North Walsham

Felmingham

Aylsham

Westwick

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Marsham

Dilham

Stalham A149

Smallburgh

Scottow

Norwich p122

Reepham

Foxley

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O L K

Norwich is famous for its two spectacular cathedrals, the Bastwick Norman castle and the city Wroxham Rollesby Crostwick Norfolk hall clock tower, creating a Ormesby St Michael Broads Salhouse breath-taking skyline for this Rackheath South Walsham relatively small city. Norwich Billockby Caister-on-Sea North Cathedral is magnificent, Acle Burlingham whatever the season. Stroll T h e NORWICH Brundall through the stunning, 44-acre Broads Beighton GREAT Cathedral Close to reach two YARMOUTH delightful pubs, the Red Lion and the Adam and Eve, both Cantley Arminghall Belton well-placed on the riverside.

Poringland Thurton The Cathedral of St John Swainsthorpe Hopton on Sea the Baptist is stunning with Brooke Loddon its Victorian Gothic Revival Hales Saxlingham Thorpe architecture. Norwich also Kirstead Green Raveningham Haddiscoe offers a myriad of fascinating, Hempnall Stockton historic attractions.

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Morton A1067

Horsford

Catfield

Coltishall

Horstead

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It has often been said that there’s no place more peaceful than the Norfolk Broads. This beautiful corner of Norfolk is truly unspoilt, with both the Broads and the coast to explore.

Obscured by reeds the height of a house, a mirror-smooth waterway shimmers under the canopy of an expansive sky, the silence broken only by the fluttering of birds’ wings. Otters dip and slide when startled by a passing Broads’ cruiser or dinghy, which appear to skim through a landscape unchanged for generations.

Hoveton

Martham

Horning

Hemsby

A1062

A1151

Taverham Drayton

A149

A1064

A47

Mattishall

A47

A1042

A1074

A47

A47

Colney

Barford

Reymerston

Cringleford

A47

Hethersett

Kimberley Crownthorpe Hingham

A147

Ketteringham

Hackford

A146

Wymondham

Mulbarton

A11

Silfield Wreningham

am Tacolneston

A140

Hapton

Attleborough Puddledock Old Buckenham

A12

A143

Long Stratton

Woodton

Hedenham

Ellingham

Ditchingham

Hargate

Gillingham

Earsham

Winfarthing

ng

A143

Shelfanger A140

South Lopham

Thelveton

A1066

Roydon

Diss

Harleston Needham

Redenhall

Waveney Valley p162 On the Norfolk-Suffolk border, the Waveney Valley is an unspoilt haven of idyllic villages and market towns. It is home to the world-famous Latitude Festival, an annual music festival in Henham Park, and the Out There festival in Great Yarmouth. The nearby town of Bungay, nestling on the River Waveney and surrounded by willow-strewn meadows, is perfect walking terrain, boasting a Roman well, the remains of a Norman castle, a Benedictine priory and the ancient Buttercross, home to the Thursday market.

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Publisher Jonathan Tilston Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Editorial Director Deanna Tilston Sales Marina Jacobs Design inspire: inspiredc.co.uk Copyright for flickr FC Barry Badcock | Happisburgh weekend early morning P14 Lens Envy | Old Hunstanton P16 DS Williams | Thornham Harbour at Dawn P16 Michael Button | Thornham P20 Martin Pettitt | Brancaster Beach P36 Defence Images | Holkham Beach P44 Just1snap | Our Lady of Walsingham P70 Nick Ford | Sculthorpe Moor P76 P Elliott Brown | The Plantation Garden Norwich Italiante terrace P85 Lawerence OP | St Margaret of Antioch P85 Peter St Peter Norwich 2011 05 Church 01a High Altar 01b P89 Rod Tuk | Holkham Beach P98 Andrew Stawarz | Thetford Forest P12 Ben Salter | 1940 Sheringham P93 Trevor Rowell | Sheringham 1940 weekend 2014 P102 Gerry Balding | Steaming to Santa P144 Ian Wakfield | Alysham P166 Kentwell Hall | Jerzy Kociatkiewicz

p62

The best of Norfolk’s Fine Art

p72

Holiday Accomodation

Photography Contributors Justin Minns | justinminns.co.uk P 97, 99 Nick Ford Photographer | Swaffham Visit Norfolk 12 Visit Norwich 80 P10, 43 Grey Seal Coffee @Visit Britain | Rod Edwards P96 Paul Goldstein P123 Sara Hardman | Winbirri P123 John Jarrold Museum P134, 144 The Broads Authority, Broads Tours, Bill Smith, Simon Findlay, Julian Caxton, Ian Altken P137 Great Yarmouth Tourism P167 Jimmy’s Farm Titchwell Manor Food Photography | Jamie Maxwell Waveney section | Roland Blunk of Swan House

p134

Maps P 4, 5, 47 Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown Copyright and database rights 2016 Additional map information ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd Maps created by Oxford Cartographers

East Norfolk and The Broads

Contributors Chris Couborough, Debra Khan, Ottilie Tilston, Beatrice Smith, Henry Laite Cover Justin Mimms Kings Lynn Tourism With special thanks to all advertisers Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 141 Norwich Road Ipswich IP1 2PP 01473 286155 sales@tilstonphillips.com tilstonphillips.com ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 2016 Printed and bound by Latimer Trend & Company Ltd. Holder of the following quality, printing and environmental certifications: ISO 9001:2008 ISO 14001:2004 FSCR PEFCTM

6 the best of NORFOLK

p110

The best of Norfolk food

p150

West Norfolk

Contents

p122

Norwich Tourist Information Centres Great Yarmouth NR30 2EN great-yarmouth.co.uk - 01493 846346 Holt NR25 6BW visitnorthnorfolk.com - 01263 713100

Hoveton (Broads) NR12 8UR broads-authority.gov.uk - 01603 782281 Hunstanton PE36 6BQ visithunstanton.info - 01485 532610 King’s Lynn PE30 1HP visitwestnorfolk.com - 01553 763044 Diss IP22 4AG visiteastofengland.com - 01379 650523 Swaffham PE37 7DQ aroundswaffham.co.uk - 01760 722255

p8

North Norfolk

p162

Waverney Valley

Welcome 3 County of Norfolk map 4 North Norfolk 8 Best of the region | North Norfolk 10 North Norfolk events 12 Old Hunstanton 14 Thornham 16 6 Best Norfolk beaches 20 Best of Burnham Market 28 Holkham beach and village 36 Wells-next-the-Sea 38 The Morston experience 42 Walsingham 44 Found at Blakeney 46 Found at Stiffkey 49 Cley-next-the Sea 50 Best of Holt 52 Fine Art: Ones to Watch 62 Fakenham 70 72 Holiday Accommodation 5 Best things to do | Spring & Summer 76 A recipe for Summer 77 Children’s Norfolk 80 5 Ecclesiastical treasures 85 Cromer 86 89 5 of Pickle and Pip’s dog friendly places Sheringham 90 Central Norfolk and The Brecks 95 Best of the region | Central Norfolk and The Brecks 96 98 Central Norfolk and The Brecks events Swaffham 99 5 best things to do | Autumn & Winter 102 A recipe for Winter 103 Reepham 104 108 Six best Epicurean Delights The best of Norfolk food 110 Norwich 122 Norwich Lanes and The Cathedral Quarter 124 126 Norwich events East Norfolk and The Broads 134 East Norfolk and The Broads events 135 Best of the region | East Norfolk and The Broads 136 5 Best cultural visits 138 Wroxham 140 Boating on The Broads 142 Aylsham 144 West Norfolk 150 West Norfolk events 151 Best of the region | West Norfolk 152 King’s Lynn 154 Hunstanton 156 Antique auctions & fairs 159 Stately homes & gardens 160 Waveney Valley 162 Across the border | Suffolk 166 Personalised covers 174 175 List of advertisers

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North Norfolk

Best of the region North Norfolk 10 North Norfolk events 12 Old Hunstanton 14 Thornham 16 6 Best Norfolk Beaches 20 Best of Burnham Market 28 Holkham beach and village 36 Wells-next-the-Sea 38 The Morston Experience 42 Walsingham 44

Cley-next-the Sea 50 Best of Holt 52 Fine Art: Ones to Watch 62 Fakenham 70 Holiday Accommodation 72 5 Best things to do Spring & Summer 76 A recipe for Summer 77 Children’s Norfolk 80 5 Ecclesiastical treasures 85 Cromer 86

Found at Blakeney 46

5 of Pickle and Pip’s dog friendly places 89

Found at Stiffkey 49

Sheringham 90

best of the region NORTH NORFOLK

Brancaster beach

North Norfolk is foodie paradise with Cromer Crab and Brancaster mussels being famous local specialities. With many fine restaurants producing delicious dishes as spectacular as their flint stone buildings.

Sunny days on the Wells-Walsingham Light Railway will delight passengers of all ages, spotting local birds on the way to Walsingham Abbey.

Blickling and Felbrigg Halls are perfect rainy day visits, as is Burnham Market if you fancy a shopping spree.

JO C’S NORFOLK ALE

GREY SEAL COFFEE

THE LIFEBOAT INN AT THORNHAM

The Old Store near Fakenham produces award-winning Norfolk real ale. Using locally produced Maris Otter barley, the brewery uses water from its own bore hole. Why not book a tour of the brewery, finishing with a pint of one of Jo C’s ales - Norfolk Kiwi, Knot just another IPA and Bitter Old Bustard?

A small batch coffee roastery in Glandford, Grey Seal staff welcome visitors who want to talk about, sample and experiment with different brews of coffee. If you want to take it further, book a coffee brewing course or pick up some Grey Seal coffee, available online and throughout Norfolk.

Blakeney NR25 7NQ

To the west of the region, you’ll find the 16th century Lifeboat Inn minutes from the marshland. During 2016 it will be renovated by Angellus Hotels, who are focused on giving it modern conveniences while retaining favourites like a gas-lit bar and open fire. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink after a walk on the salt marshes.

jocsnorfolkale.co.uk

Glandford NR25 7JP

PE36 6LT

greysealcoffee.co.uk

lifeboatinnthornham.com

Did you know?

Brancaster mussels are roughly double the size of their european counterparts.

10 the best of NORFOLK

ANNA Founded in 1994 by Anna Park, and with stores in Primrose Hill and across East Anglia, Anna’s independent womenswear stores pride themselves on beautiful clothing and excellent customer service. As fashion evolves, Anna keeps up. National and international designer labels are available, demonstrating Anna’s inimitable and innovative style, which keeps her expanding customer base coming back for more every season. shopatanna.com

FAKENHAM MARKET Fakenham’s Thursday market, starting at the Corn Exchange and continuing along Cattlemarket Street, is always worth a visit. Offering a twist on the standard British market, it also has an on site flea market and James Beck’s Auction House. Park free for up to two hours.

NR21 9BG fakenham.info

NO1 CROMER - FISH AND CHIPS This restaurant is from renowned chef, Galton Blackiston, and at the heart of its menu and ethos you’ll find locally sourced produce. Its fantastic sea views and affordable menu make this location perfect for all the family.

There’s no booking, and they’re open all year – just turn up and enjoy. Voted the Times’ 6th best seaside eatery, it’s a great place for local food. www.no1cromer.com

Local knowledge Marsh samphire is 50% cheaper to buy in Norfolk than in London - or if you fancy foraging, it’s free.

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NORTH NORFOLK events 2016 BURNHAM MARKET International Horse Trials - 1 -3 April Creake Abbey Spring Craft Fair - 30 April Creake Abbey Farmers Market - 1st Saturday of each month (excluding January) Morris dancing - 2 & 30 May Auction on the Green - Every Monday 1pm June - September The Burnhams Flower Show & Carnival - 16 July Burnham Market Craft Fair - August Burnham Overy Regatta - August North Norfolk Music Festival - 15th - 27th August BURNHAM DEEPDALE - DALEGATE MARKET EVENTS Deepdale Spring Market - 25 -28 March Pop Up Shops - Easter to October Brancaster Mussels in Season Usually October to March - Enjoy our local speciality ... fresh mussels from Brancaster Staithe Love Your Local Market 2016 #LYLM2016 17 - 31 May Gulliver’s Travels by The Pantaloons - 18 June The Pantaloons performance of Gulliver’s Travels at Dalegate Market Deepdale Christmas Market - 2 - 4 December Stock up on all those Christmas decorations and presents at the Deepdale Christmas Market, while enjoying plenty of festive cheer and carols.

CROMER The Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster Festival - 21 -22 May Cromer Carnival Saturday - 13 - 19 August Carnival Day - 17th August Cromer & Sheringham Arts and Literary Festival (film and photography focus) - October FAKENHAM Fakenham Racecourse Point to Point - 7 July - 7 August - Ladies Day 22 May North Norfolk Railway Beer Festival - July Pensthorpe Vintage Fair - October Thursford Christmas Spectacular - November/ December Thursford - Santa’s magical journey - December HOLKHAM Holkham Country Fair - July North Norfolk Food Festival - North Norfolk Restaurant Week - September HOLT Blickling Bluebell Walk - June Holt Festival - 24 - 31 July Voewood Festival - TBC July Holt Christmas Lights switch on - November - holtchristmaslights.org SHERINGHAM Sheringham Viking Festival - February North Norfolk Railway Summer Diesel Gala - 10 - 12 June North Norfolk Railway Beer Festival - 15 - 18 July Sheringham Carnival - August NSTG Annual show and market at Sheringham Park - 7 August 1940’s North Norfolk Railway Weekend - September Cley 16 contemporary art exhibition - 7 July - 7 August Walsingham - National Pilgrimage - 30 May WELLS Screen-next-the-Sea Film Festival - March Poetry-next-the-Sea Festival - May Wells Carnival Week 29 July - 7 August Wells Pirate Festival - 9, 10, 11 September Wells Christmas Tide - Early December

12 the best of NORFOLK

Stunning sea views BEST WESTERN Le Strange Arms Hotel Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton, Norfolk PE36 6JJ Telephone: 01485 534 411 Email: reception@lestrangearms.co.uk

Ancient Mariner Inn A traditional pub, with beer gardens offering unrivalled views of the sea and beaches of this area.

Wedding venue Bedrooms

43 en suite bedrooms many with sea views.

Le Strange Brasserie and Oak Bar

The Brasserie and bar are open daily for meals and Sunday lunch. The Oak Bar also serves afternoon teas which can be taken on the terrace in fine weather or in comfort of our lounge.

Right on the beach with nothing but a spacious lawn and sand dunes between the hotel and the sea, this venue offers one of the most idyllic settings for a romantic wedding in Norfolk.

Summer House

Ideal venue for small family gatherings or Afternoon Teas.

TRY OUR SISTER HOTELS: BEST WESTERN PLUS Knights Hill Hotel & Spa

BEST WESTERN PLUS Orton Hall Hotel & Spa

South Wootton, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 3HQ Telephone: 01553 675 566 Email: reception@knightshill.co.uk

The Village Orton Longueville, Peterborough, Cambs PE2 7DN Telephone: 01733 391 111 Email: reception@ortonhall.co.uk

find out more online at www.abacushotels.co.uk

Old Hunstanton Old Hunstanton is a picturesque seaside village, with heaps of history and character.

HISTORY King Edmund is said to have built the village in the 14th century. It’s divided into two parts: the village of Old Hunstanton, and the newer resort known as New Hunstanton.

In 1860, with the coming of the railway, Styleman Le Strange, the then Lord of the Manor, envisaged a place where people could stroll and relax whilst taking in the sea air, and so built New Hunstanton.

Old Hunstanton is one of the few places along the North Norfolk coast that you can get very close to the beach without walking a long way over the salt marshes; the River Hun runs to the coast just to the east of old Hunstanton.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE The beach at Old Hunstanton, with its miles of sand, is perfect for walking and is one of the finest in Norfolk. It’s very popular with kite surfers, and the row of colourful beach huts lying just behind the sand dunes makes it even more picturesque. There is also a lifeboat station here, which welcomes visitors every Sunday morning.

Old Hunstanton’s Parish Church, St Mary’s, is full of light and colour and has some unusual medieval artefacts of interest. It is situated in the grounds of Hunstanton Hall, a Grade I listed building.

Walkers will also enjoy the clifftop walks past the disused Old Hunstanton Lighthouse and the ruins of St Edmund’s Chapel, built in 1272.

The Lodge Bar and Restaurant is very highly rated on Trip Advisor, and can provide tasty, locally sourced food.

If sea views are important, visit Le Strange Arms Hotel with its views looking out towards the wash. Michelin starred food is also available at The Neptune.

Old Hunstanton Golf Course, a challenging links course, is voted amongst the top 100 courses in Britain.

It has changed very little since its original design was opened to the public in 1907.

The village is full of old world charm. It contains some lovely seaside cottages, Le Strange Old Barns antiques, and an arts & craft gallery centre.

HOTSPOT The Lodge PE36 6HX Le Strange Arms Hotel PE36 6JJ

best of RECOMMENDS DOG WALK

GOLF

EXPERIENCE

On Thursday’s only walk through the private Hunstanton Park with views of the moated hall once the home of the Le Strange family.

Described as ‘one of the county’s hidden gems’ Hunstanton’s 18 hole golf course sits in the sand dunes overlooking The Wash.

Le Strange Old Barns for new crafts, antiques and modern gifts.

thelodgehunstanton.co.uk/north-norfolk-walk.php

14 the best of NORFOLK

Old Hunstanton’s pub with rooms, bar & restaurant

THE COAST STARTS HERE 01485 532896 info@thelodgehunstanton.co.uk www.thelodgehunstanton.co.uk

Thornham Set on the marshes and with a smuggling past, Thornham is a favourite with artists and bird watchers..

HISTORY A small but affluent village on the North Norfolk coast, Thornham has grown up beside the creeks and tidal marshes. You can immediately sense its smuggling past – take yourself on to the salt marshes as dusk falls and your imagination will definitely get the better of you…

an astonishing variety of bird life, including marsh harriers, bitterns, bearded tits and more. Also nearby are Brancaster and Brancaster Staithe, which combine the gorgeous coastline with a first-class golf course that is well worth a visit. The White Horse pub, right on the tidal marshes, is a lovely spot to rest a while and gaze at the sunset.

cultivated near Scolt Head Island are available throughout the year. Get them at Gurneys in Burnham Market and Drove Orchards, who have a varied selection of independent retailers as well as a farm shop and pick-your-own.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE There are two RSPB sites just a stone’s throw from Thornham – the wide, sandy beach at Holme-next-the-Sea and marshy Titchwell.

For a warming bite to eat, drop into the famous Orange Tree which is possibly the most dog friendly pub on the coast.

The Orange Tree PE36 6LY

Titchwell has an endless stretch of landscape that plays host to

HOTSPOT Thornham Deli PE36 6LX

Seafood is a must – Brancaster mussels between September and April and the delicious oysters

best of RECOMMENDS WATCH

WALK THE DOG

EAT

Thornham has some of the best bird watching locations in North Norfolk, with a wide variety of birds to see throughout the year.

Explore the marshes, starting at the harbour.

At Eric’s Fish & Chips then check out all Drove Orchards has to offer, from stylish interiors to designer clothing.

16 the best of NORFOLK

The Orange Tree It is run by Mark and Jo Goode.

Together they have created a real gem. The Orange Tree is known first and foremost for it’s awardwinning food. Using local produce, Philip Milner, Executive Chef, creates outstanding, mouth-watering dishes, such as ‘Wild Seabass with Norfolk Razor Clams’, for which Philip was awarded ‘Great British Seafood Pub Chef of the Year’. The restaurant menu is original and unique, leaving customers spoilt for choice. If simpler fare is what you are after then you will find it on the bar menu - with curries, Norfolk Red Poll burgers and even a national award-winning chicken pie.

Not to be missed is the signature ‘Fairground’ dessert; this has to be seen to be believed!

Children are welcome at The Orange Tree, with their own three course menu, outside play area and colouring and board games for rainy days.

Believe it or not The Orange Tree even has it’s own doggie menu, so your furry friends do not need to sit in the car!

The Orange Tree has ten ensuite bedrooms, six of which sit around a pretty courtyard. One of which is a family room, where the children sleep in their own ‘den’. The Old Bakery has recently been added to the portfolio.

“

“

Nestled in the heart of Thornham, arguably Norfolk’s most stunning coastal village, sits The Orange Tree.

Norfolk’s Dining Pub of the Year, 2013 – 2016

The Good Pub Guide

This is a charming, period property, 50 metres away, and offers four more ensuite bedrooms all restored with great care to offer contemporary comfort and style.

The Orange Tree, High Street, Thornham, PE36 6LY Telephone - 01485 512213 theorangetreethornham.co.uk

the best of NORFOLK 17

found at

DROVE ORCHARDS On the outskirts of Thornham, on the way to Holme, is another of those ‘hidden’ Norfolk gems.

There is plenty of parking, with retail shops including Danish men and womenswear at Nelle DK, homeware and interiors from Joyful Living and childrenswear and gifts from Bells and Whistles. It’s also home to Gurneys Fish Box and Eric’s Fish and Chips and a play area for children.

They have a friendly welcome for dogs, too.

Drove Orchards Thornham, Norfolk PE36 6LS 01485 525652 droveorchards.com

BELLS AND WHISTLES A well-established children’s boutique, Bells and Whistles is situated at Drove Orchards in Thornham, a great location on Norfolk’s “hop on and hop off” coastline route. It offers a unique range of clothing for babies and children up to 10 years old. Proprietor Georgie Newling says her inspiration comes from her surroundings - the beaches, the sea breeze, the wildlife and the great expanse of Norfolk’s open skies.

She always aims to bring practicality, comfort, fun and vibrancy to her shop.

01485 525676 bellsandwhistleskids.co.uk

ERIC’S FISH AND CHIPS A modern fish and chips restaurant, Eric’s offers traditional, British fish and chips, along with more modern, European small plates and sides.

Launched by the patron of Titchwell Manor Hotel, local chef Eric Snaith, the restaurant’s produce is sourced from the local area whenever possible.

Home-made ice-creams are also on offer, as well as a children’s menu and a concise wine list. All the main courses are under £10. Eric’s is open from noon until 9pm daily (closed from 4th to 28th January).

01485 525886 ericsfishandchips.com

18 the best of NORFOLK

GURNEYS FISH BOX Gurneys was set up by Mike Gurney some 40 years ago, when he learned how to grow oysters in the creeks and how to smoke fish. His first shop, in Brancaster, was the first fishmongers on the coast road. In 1992, Gurneys began selling highquality, locally-produced shellfish, smoked fish and wet fish on Burnham Market.

Today, Gurneys is a thriving fishmongers, run by Mike, Ned Catt, Matt Falvey and Alistair Steele. They also make fish products, including pâtés, pies, soups and curries, from original recipes.

01328 738967 (Burnham Market shop) gurneysfishshop.co.uk

NELLE DK A Danish boutique specialising in Danish Scandinavian designers, Nelle DK stocks many renowned brands, such as Ilse Jacobsen, Becksondergaard, Rabens Saloner and Gestuz. Growing up in Denmark and later working in a designer store in Italy, and with Danish designer brands in London and Sheffield, the proprietor promises a personal service, getting to know clients’ needs. If you’re looking for a special occasion outfit, everyday chic, or topping up your seasonal wardrobe, customers of all ages are warmly welcomed and will leave knowing they look their best!

01485 525164 nelle-dk.co.uk

JOYFUL LIVING More of an interiors boutique than a regular shop, Joyful Living has oldfashioned values, where Jo, who has had years of experience in commercial interior sales and styling offers you inspiration and ideas for your interiors.

The unique items she commissions feature neutral textures, rather than bold patterns, for calm, easy-going living. Many regulars appreciate the happy, quirky, beautiful brand, a mix of old and new, more beautiful and functional than fashion-led.

01485 525714 joyfulliving.co.uk

the best of NORFOLK 19

6beaches best

NORFOLK

Brancaster our top beach Backed by gorgeous sand dunes and with a peaceful RSPB bird reserve.

An intimate, dog-friendly beach, this stretch of coast offers many great walks, starting with the scenic beach route just off Gypsy Lane Walk. Those willing to brave the waters will have a great time swimming, just be mindful that there is no lifeguard service. A picnic is the best bet here or alternatively a tasty lunch at one of the nearby hotels.

Norfolk has 93 miles of coastline filled with unspoilt beaches that are clean, safe and family-friendly.

They’re great to enjoy throughout the seasons, with most welcoming dog walkers all year round.

However you choose to spend the day, be sure to stick around for the breathtaking sunsets!

Holkham best for walking the dog

Hunstanton best for rockpooling This beach is ideal for exploring after the tide has gone out. Make sure to bring some soft shoes to avoid any scrapes or scratches. The whole family is welcome at Hunstanton, even four-legged members of your clan who’ll have ample space to run and play.

Wells best for a family day at the beach Privacy and great views from the sand dunes are the two things that set Wells apart. It’s full of cosy, quaint beach huts that are a lovely backdrop for an open air picnic.

Remember to bring a bucket of ice to keep your drinks cool as it is a long walk back to get provisions.

Dogs are allowed all year round on part of the beach. If you are swimming here please be aware that the tide comes in extremely fast.

Cromer best for surfing Cromer has a long family beach overlooked by a nostalgic Victorian pier. Equipped with its own surf school and an RNLI lifeguard in the summer months, it’s a place where kids can run wild. It is also one of three beaches awarded the Blue Flag in 2015 for water quality.

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This beach is a bit too exposed for a swim, but when the tide is out it stretches for miles, creating a beautiful space to explore. It’s backed by fragrant pine forests and is lovely for a walk, flying a kite, playing boule or cricket, or even a spot of of bare-foot running.

Whatever you get up to, you’re are sure to be undisturbed and to enjoy the invigorating and brisk North Sea Wind.

Happisburgh best for walking in the footsteps of early humans Famous for its striking red and white lighthouse and unspoilt bay, Happisburgh was once linked to mainland Europe. Evacuations at the beach have revealed some of the first evidence of hunter gatherers in Britain dating back more than 800,000 years. If you are feeling like a trek yourself, there is a circular seven and a half mile walk from Happisburgh inland across open fields and lanes to the villages of Bridlington and Walcott.

renowned for ABrancaster, boutique hotel overlooking its exceptional cuisine. the North Norfolk coast near Titchwell Manor Brancaster, renowned for Hotel & Restaurants its exceptional cuisine.

Boutique Titchwell Manor has or in the striking and informal Eating The stunning, standalone Pottin stunning views across open marshes Rooms, complete with sea view terrace overlooking the garden provides to the sea. Family owned by and bar for alfresco drinking and dining a spacious bedroom complete wi Margaret and Ian Snaith, the former in warmer weather. roll-top bath and log-burner, as w Victorian farmhouse has been a generous walk-in shower and p transformed into an elegant hotel An à la carte menu is on offer for lunch decking where guests can enjoy a retaining the original high ceilings and dinner, while a four or eight-course alfresco breakfast or a sundowne and open fires. The hotel was named Conversation Menu with optional Eastern Daily Press (EDP) Best matched wines is also available every Dogs are welcome in select groun Independent Hotel of the Year 2012. evening in the Conservatory.

The latter floor bedrooms, the Eating Room Dogs are welcome in select ground in the striking and informal Eating A boutique hotel showcases Eric’s signature area, lounges. Titchw floor bedrooms, theterrace Eatingand Rooms Rooms, complete with sea renowned view overlooking the North bar area, terrace andalso lounges.

Dining is a gourmet experience where experimental style.

Manor holds a civil wedding terrace and bar for alfresco drinking Titchwell Manor also holds a civilin creating bes and dining in warmer weather. you can savournear licence and excels the wonderful flavours Norfolk coast Boutique Titchwell Manor has or in the striking and informal Eatingwedding The stunning, Shed andstandalone excels in Potting Sunday lunch is served between 12pm licence weddings for couples wanting to of North Norfolk’s finest local produce.

Brancaster, renowned stunning views across open marshes Rooms, complete with seathe view terrace overlooking the provides creating bespoke for An à la carte is on offer for avoidweddings thegarden constraints of a formal andmenu 2.30pm, Beautifully presented dishes are created hotel’s famous while couplesa wanting to avoid the and bar dinner, while four or and for to its exceptional theHead sea. Chef Family owned bywinner oflunch and for alfresco dining spacious bedroom complete with wedding package. by Eric Snaith, Afternoon Teaadrinking is served in the Eating constraints of a formal wedding eight-course Conversation Menu three AAand Rosettes, EDP Best Restaurant Rooms and lounge from 12 noon until roll-top bath and log-burner, as well as Margaret Ian Snaith, the former in warmer weather. cuisine. package. with optional matched wines is also The nearby RSPB Titchwell Mars and Pub Dining 2013, EDP Norfolk 5pm daily.

Victorian farmhouse has been a generous walk-in shower and private available every evening showcasing nature reserveMarsh is a haven for wild Food and Drink Chef of the Year 2012 Boutique Titchwell Manor has The nearby RSPB Titchwell Eric’s renowned signature transformed into anofelegant hotel An àAccommodation la carte menu is onisoffer lunchnature decking where guests can enjoy an ther while for golfers in 27for individually and a Master Chef Great Britain. stunning views across open reserveyear is around, haven for wildlife style. retaining high ceilings experimental and dinner, while a four or eight-course breakfast a sundowner. marshes to the the sea.original Family owned championship links courses designed, en-suite bedrooms – all from yearalfresco round,two while for or golfers there

by Margaret and Ian The Snaith, the easy reach andcourses watersports enthu Youopen can choose to hotel dine in either theSunday fine Conversation VictorianMenu manor house rooms, are to two championship links and fires. was named with optional lunch is served between formerdining, Victorian farmhouse has been and watersports can enjoy sailing and windsurfin candlelit Conservatory contemporary suites around thewithin herb easy reach 12pm and 5pm, while the hotel’s Eastern Dailyanthe Press (EDP)garden, Best matched wines is also available everyfabrics Dogs are welcome in select ground transformed into elegant enthusiasts can enjoy sailing andharbour.

Brancaster Staithe garden, each using luxurious overlooking walledhotel Afternoon Tea is served in retaining the original highofceilings Independent Hotel the Year 2012. famous evening in the Conservatory.

The latter floor bedrooms, the Eating Rooms bar windsurfing from Brancaster Staithe finishes.

The Eatingand Rooms and lounge from

and open fires. The hotel was named showcases Eric’s renowned signature harbour. area, terrace and lounges. Titchwell 12 noon until 5pm daily.

Eastern Daily Press (EDP) Best Dining is a gourmet experience where experimental style.

Manor also holds a civil wedding Independent Hotel of the Year 2012.

Titchwell Manor Hotel & Restaur Accommodation is in 27 bedrooms you can savour the wonderful flavours offering a range of individually licenceTitchwell, and excelsnear in creating bespoke Brancaster Dining is a gourmet experience Sunday lunch is served between 12pm weddings for couples wanting to of North Norfolk’s finest local produce. designed, en-suite accommodation Norfolk PE31 8BB where you can savour the wonderful – from Victorian manor house Telephone: 01485 210221; avoid the constraints of a formal and 2.30pm, Beautifully presented while the hotel’s famous flavours of North Norfolk’sdishes finestare created to contemporary suites Email: info@titchwellmanor.com local by produce.

Beautifully presented wedding package.

Head Chef Eric Snaith, winner of bedrooms Afternoon Tea is served in the Eating around the herb garden, each using dishes are created by Head Chef Eric www.titchwellmanor.com three AA Rosettes, Best Restaurantluxurious Rooms and and lounge from 12The noon until fabrics finishes.

Snaith, winner of three EDP AA Rosettes, Titchwell Manor Hotel & Restaurants stunning, standalone Potting Shed EDP and BestPub Restaurant and EDP Pub Norfolk Dining The nearby RSPB Titchwell Marsh Dining 2013, 5pm daily.

Titchwell, near Brancaster, the garden provides a 2013,Food EDP and Norfolk Drink reserve is a haven for wildlife all DrinkFood Chefand of the Year 2012 overlooking Norfolknature PE31 8BB spacious bedroom complete with Chef of the Year 2012 and Master Telephone: 01485 year round,210221 while for golfers there are Accommodation is in 27 as individually a Master Chef of Great Britain. roll-top bath and log-burner, well Chef and of Great Britain.

Email: info@titchwellmanor.com as a generous and– from two championship links courses within designed,walk-in en-suiteshower bedrooms www.titchwellmanor.com decking where guests can You can choose to dine in either the reach and watersports enthusiasts You can choose to dine in either the fineprivate Victorian manor house rooms, to Twitter:easy @TitchwellManor enjoy an alfresco breakfast fine dining, candlelit Conservatory can TitchwellManor enjoy sailing and windsurfing from dining, candlelit Conservatory contemporary suites around the herb Facebook: overlooking the walled garden, or or a sundowner.

overlooking the walled garden,

garden, each using luxurious fabrics and finishes.

Brancaster Staithe harbour.

the best of NORFOLK 21

Visit Titchwell Marsh and don’t just get closer to nature, become part of it.

Titchwell Marsh

Seasonal Highlights avocet

Spring

Autumn

Winter

This is one of the most exciting times of the year. The first spring migrants, such as swallows and sand martins, can be seen over the lagoons with wheatears along the beach. If you are lucky, you may also hear the ‘booming’ of the bittern, which has recently returned to breed at Titchwell and marsh harriers can be seen performing their ‘sky dancing’ display.

Autumn is the time for waders when, with luck, over 20 species could be seen around the reserve.

Winter is the time for wildfowl at Titchwell. Large numbers of ducks and geese winter in North Norfolk and most of these species can be seen on the lagoons. The commonest species are teal, wigeon, mallard, gadwall and shoveler, with smaller numbers of pintails and goldeneyes.

Summer

September is one of the best months to view bearded tits. The young gather in small flocks and can show very well feeding on seeds blown onto the mud near the Island Hide.

Mid-summer is the quietest time for birds but the best for some of the more elusive reserve species.

By mid-July, the breeding marsh harriers will have flying young and up to 15 birds have been seen in a day.

Species such as curlew sandpiper, little stint and black-tailed godwit stop on the lagoons to feed on their return migration from their Arctic breeding grounds to their African wintering grounds.

Offshore from the reserve, large ‘rafts’ of common scoters, long tailed ducks and eiders can be seen. In the evenings, thousands of pink-footed geese can be seen flying to their roost sites along the coast. Hen harriers, marsh harriers and occasionally barn owls can be seen over the reedbed at dusk. In the evenings, thousands of pink-footed geese may be seen flying to their roost sites along the coast.

black tailed godwit

pink footed goose

marsh harrier

eider

brent goose

bittern

rspb.org.uk

bearded tit

22 the best of NORFOLK

For all your birding needs contact Richard at One Stop Nature Shop, the friendliest specialist on the coast visit www.onestopnature.co.uk

hotel | restaurant | bar | venue

A TASTE OF NORFOLK LIFE Freshly caught fish, locally produced meat and produce – at Briarfields our menu changes daily to reflect the best ingredients which are cooked creatively for a delicious meal.

RELAX BY THE COAST With 24 luxuriously decorated rooms, and plenty of space to relax, Briarfields is the ultimate place to unwind on the North Norfolk coast.

call 01485 210742 email info@briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk or visit briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk Main Road, Titchwell, Norfolk PE31 8BB

Keep the sea on your left‌ The North Norfolk coast is blessed with several excellent 18-hole golf courses, boasting some of the very best links courses in the country.

Local entrepreneur and businessman Derrick Lloyd is pictured at his favourite hole along the coast, the 16th, at Hunstanton Golf Club. A notable golfing feat occurred here in the Eastern Counties Foursomes in 1974, when Bob Taylor, a Leicestershire County player, holed in one on three successive days at the 16th (188 yards), once with a 1 iron and twice with a 6 iron.

While holidaying in Norfolk, if you're looking for a great game of golf, surrounded by some stunning coastal scenery, visits to the Royal West Norfolk Club at Brancaster, Hunstanton Golf Club, Heacham Manor, Sheringham and the Royal Cromer Golf Club are highly recommended.

Royal West Norfolk Club www.rwngc.org 01485 210087

Hunstanton Golf Club hunstantongolfclub.com 01485 532811

Heacham Manor heacham-manor.co.uk/golf 01485 536030

Sheringham Golf Club sheringhamgolfclub.co.uk 01263 823488

Royal Cromer Golf Club. royalcromergolfclub.com 01263 512884

visit norfolkcoastholidaycottages.co.uk

Norfolkcoast holidaycottages luxury self-catering Golf and beach nearby Hunstanton Old Hunstanton ď„‘

call 01485 532896 or email info@norfolkcoastholidaycottages.co.uk

DALEGATE MARKET in BURNHAM DEEPDALE

Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale is an excellent place to shop, eat, drink and meet with family and friends. Open all year, Dalegate Market has become a wonderful hub for the West End of the beautiful North Norfolk Coast. So much more on offer than first meets the eye, take time to wander the site.

Dalegate Market is also home to the Deepdale Christmas Market, which takes place on the first weekend of December, and hosts over one hundred stalls – A fabulous way to start the festive season.

Whether you pop in for a cuppa and a piece of cake at Deepdale Café, to do your weekly shop at Keshco Nisa, or for a bit of retail therapy in our lovely shops, Dalegate Market is welcoming and free to park.

The site is home to Deepdale Café, offering tasty breakfasts, lunches, great coffee, cake and afternoon teas throughout the year. Explore our lovely shops, including Fat Face, Gone Crabbing, Relish Boutique, One Stop Nature Shop and The Hare & The Hen. You’ll find clothing, jewellery, accessories, gifts, souvenirs, wildlife watching equipment, art and crafts.

You can buy provisions and fuel from the Keshco Supermarket, and there’s Deepdale Information, a tourist information centre with information about the whole area.

Throughout the year, Dalegate Market hosts many independent artisans and producers. There are the four beach hut pop up shops, that change weekly from Easter to October. In early Spring there is the Deepdale Spring Market, new for 2016, hosting over 30 Norfolk artisans and producers.

26 the best of NORFOLK

Dalegate Market is at the heart of Burnham Deepdale, approximately half way between Hunstanton and Wells-next-the-Sea on the A149 coast road. The Coasthopper Bus stops right outside, connecting us to villages and towns to the East and West along the beautiful North Norfolk Coast. Cyclists, car drivers and groups are most welcome throughout the year, with free parking.

Walkers are also very welcome, with the Norfolk Coast Path on the doorstep, just walk straight in with

your boots on, and relax with a cuppa and lovely food. There is both indoor and outdoor seating for Deepdale Café, and well behaved dogs on leads are most welcome.

The whole site is on one level, with solid walkways to all the permanent shops & café, with wide doors, perfect for wheelchair and pushchair access.

Dalegate Market is almost opposite St Mary’s Church, another excellent place to visit when you are in the village.

The beautiful stained glass windows, Norman font and Saxon round tower are all worth seeing, can you find the Man in the Moon?

2016 is the 10th Birthday of Dalegate Market, so a whole series of special events are planned throughout the year. There will be outdoor theatre, cinema, a mini festival and many other events. Full details of the programme can be found on their website – www.dalegatemarket.co.uk – You’ll also find listings of which pop up shops are visiting on which weeks.

If you love the coast... you will love Gone Crabbing!

RUN BY NATURE ENTHUSIASTS - FRIENDLY EXPERIENCED STAFF

BINOCULARS, TELESCOPES & ACCESSORIES - in fact everything to help enjoy the wildlife & coastal scenery of Norfolk WE ALSO HAVE THE LARGEST RETAIL DISPLAY OF MICROSCOPES IN THE UK BINOCULARS & TELESCOPES NESTBOX & WILDLIFE CAMERAS BIRDFOOD & FEEDERS BOOKS & MAPS

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The One Stop Nature Shop, Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, Norfolk, PE31 8FB Between Titchwell & Wells open 7 days a week 10am-5pm

www.onestopnature.co.uk

01485 211223 Free parking - Cafe or order on-line

BINOCULARS FROM £30 TELESCOPES FROM £159

Call into our Norfolk shop for bucketfuls of prezzies for all the family 7 Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 8FB 01485 211111

the best of NORFOLK 27

best of BURNHAM MARKET A real holiday destination that is much more than a sum of its parts, Burnham Market, nicknamed Chelsea on the Sea because of its top end feel, is one of Norfolk’s loveliest villages. Its Georgian buildings surround a huge green with mature trees, and in some years, a stream called the Goose Beck flowing through the middle.

Did you know?

The Burnham villages have links to a high profile historical figure – Lord Nelson.

Born in Burnham Thorpe, his father Edmund was rector of both St Marys and All Saints’ church during the late 18th-century.

GURNEYS

THE HOSTE

Gurneys is a rare breed indeed, the type of top quality fishmonger that is now scarcely seen on our High Streets. They sell the best in locally produced smoked fish, shellfish and wet fish mainly landed locally - the oysters and mussels are particularly good.

This luxury hangout is the hub of the village, where locals enjoy jazz evenings in the cosy bar and restaurant area. Also home to a rejuvenating health & beauty spa, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge your batteries. The hotel is dog friendly and during this year it will also boast a cinema and gym.

They also have a kitchen where they make up a selection of fish products including fish soup, fishcakes, kiln roast salmon and dill pate. This year look out for their new range of own-smoked fish – our guess is that it’ll be superb…

PE31 8HD thehoste.com

MONDAY AUCTIONS ON THE GREEN

gurneysfishshop.co.uk Gurneys Fishbox at Drove Orchards in Thornham, see page 19.

During the summer months don’t miss the auctions on the Green, held on Mondays from late June onwards.

They take place at the end of the village near The Hoste on Fairstead Green.

PE36 6LS

PE31 8HD

PE31 8HF

28 the best of NORFOLK

COLLEN & CLARE The Norfolk outpost of this successful Suffolk womenswear boutique opened in 2015, offering its range of ‘edited’ labels to a new group of customers but with an identical service and ethos.

Collen and Clare has grown from a small womenswear outlet to a destination store, which has been listed among the best 50 boutiques in the country.

There’s a shopper in all of us and C&C aims to offer a lot of carefully curated different brands under one roof. New for 2016 is their lingerie room, a whole private area offering leading brands of underwear plus a bra-fitting service.

PE31 8HD collenandclare.com

DEEPDALE CAFÉ Famed as the best place for breakfast along the coast road, the café is located at Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale and open throughout the year, offering lunches, great coffee, cake and afternoon teas. There’s also a daily specials board featuring seasonal dishes like Brancaster Mussels.

CREAKE ABBEY Set among the ruins of an Augustinian abbey founded in 1206, Creake Abbey is now home to a café and food hall, shops, studios and an award winning farmers’ market.

The Farmers Market is the 1st Saturday of each month (excluding January) and boasts more than 50 stalls of local produce held in two old Norfolk barns.

Outside by the picturesque pond you can expect music and cookery theatre demonstrations at varying times throughout the year.

The market opens at 9.30am and closes at 1pm. The shops at Creake Abbey are open from 10am to 4pm (to 5pm from Easter to October) NR21 9LF

Well behaved dogs on short leads, walkers, cyclists and visitors are all welcome, and you’ll find dog-friendly areas in both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

PE31 8FB deepdale-cafe.co.uk

Local knowledge If you are looking for a free way to enjoy being out in the open, Samphire picking takes place at Burnham Overy Staithe when it is in season from June to September. Also known as ‘sea asparagus’, this delicious fleshy plant perfectly complements any fish.

creakeabbey.co.uk

the best of NORFOLK 29

Wacoal ~ it fits and it's sexy % Bella Freud ~ Richly scented candles

Penelope Chilvers ~ Shearling lined Chelsea boot % SOUTHWOLD

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ALDEBURGH

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Newgate ~ Not just clocks!

Citizens of Humanity for laid back denim devotees

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m Market a h n r u B C & C

BURNHAM MARKET

73 Market Place Burnham Market PE31 8HD • open 7 days • 01328 730558 • burnham@collenandclare.com

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Issa ~ Glamorous iconic dressing at it's best

Philippa Kunisch ~ Just stylish jewellery

Weddings and Parties | Equestrian | Shooting Located close to Burnham Market on the stunning North Norfolk coast, the charming 18th century Sussex Barn offers a unique blank canvas for your wedding or party. In addition to The Burnham Market International Horse Trials, one of the country’s leading Events where visitors can see Olympic and Championship riders competing, the estate also hosts a traditional Family Run Shoot, in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

SUSSEX BARN | BURNHAM MARKET | PE31 8JY sussexbarn.co.uk | musketeer.co.uk enquiries@sussexbarn.co.uk 01485 210000

the best of NORFOLK 33

THE ETHOS The ANNA ethos is a happy, carefree approach to fashion, this is the feeling we promote in store, online and to our clients.

We at ANNA are firm believers that you should dress for yourself and have fun with fashion, prizing personal style over fast trends.

THE BRANDS Anna stocks a wealth of design talent featuring national and international labels.

The collection includes super brands such as DVF, Anya Hindmarch and Joseph and Anna is constantly scouring the globe to source new and innovative labels presenting the clients with a fresh and fashion forward collection ever y time.

w w w. shop atan n a .c om

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East Anglia’s premier independent womenswear retailer

THE STORES The unique ANNA signature invites the client to feel comfor table and relaxed.

The store locations have all been carefully chosen by Anna and reflect her love of the area.

THE EXPERIENCE At ANNA our ultimate aim is to provide our clients with personal one-on-one style advice. With the knowledge of the stock our in store advisors can help you find something for a special occasion or just help you pick out a few pieces to refresh your wardrobe.

Market Place, Burnham Market, Norfolk, PE31 8HE | 1 Pound House, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6BW

Holkham beach and village A stunning beach forms the backdrop for Holkham’s grand and stately Hall

HISTORY Holkham’s stunning beach continues to be the main draw for thousands of visitors keen to indulge in some of the area’s rich history. Evidence of its ancient Celtic inhabitants remains in the form of hand crafted earthworks, still visible in the marshes today. The same locations served as a crucial entry point for Anglo Saxon tribes.

More recent history exists in the form of 18th century Holkham Hall, the country house which is still the family home of the Earls of Leicester of Holkham. Open to the public on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays but closed in winter, the beautiful Palladian Hall and sumptuous State Rooms are worth a visit. The deer park is a local favourite, and home to both fallow and red deer. The Holkham family take pride in sharing the house as a piece of living history, rather than a museum.

GET YOUR BEARINGS Holkham is two miles west of Wellsnext-the-Sea. On arrival you will

notice a large amount of agriculture as Holkham has a total of 25 tenanted farms which generally rotate sugar beet and barley crops. The beach is open 365 days a year and can be accessed via Lady Anne’s Drive in Holkham village, just off the A149, opposite The Victoria Inn. DON’T MISS • Many people rank Holkham beach among the best in the county.

Behind the shoreline lies a semicircular basin, which, at very high tides, rapidly fills to form a spectacular shallow lagoon.

Wonderfully unspoilt, it stretches for miles and is just the place for bracing walks.

• When you’re ready to step off the sand, check out the independent shops of Holkham village such as Adnams Wine Cellar & Kitchen Store and independent retailers Bringing the Outside In, Nomad and the Bowerbird and Everything Outdoors.

• The estate-owned Victoria Inn serves up a range of venison, beef and game that comes from the Holkham Estate and makes a point of seasonally sourcing ingredients from nearby suppliers. It is located just a 10-minute walk from the golden sands of Holkham beach.

The Nature Reserve here covers 9158 acres, stretching from Wells-next-theSea to Burnham Overy, and includes a variety of sites from salt marsh, sand dunes, pine woodland and beach to grazing marsh. It also offers the chance to spot brilliant wildlife. It is home to a herd of fallow deer as well as a wintering population of pinkfooted geese.

The extensive parkland at Holkham Hall, complete with a lake, woods, obelisk and Coke Monument, offers nature walks and cycling trails, with an imaginative play area for children to let off some steam.

HOTSPOT The Victoria, NR23 1RG

best of RECOMMENDS FORAGE

VISIT

CYCLE

Find razor clams at low tide - a great way for all the family to have fun for free; all you need is table salt and lots of patience. You might even gather enough for dinner!

From Homestead to Holkham, looks back at the life of the 7th Earl of Leicester, this great, yet modest man, who was integral in the restoration of the Holkham Estate. holkham.co.uk

There is a cycle hire centre open during high season, and Holkham Park has a variety of routes of different distances which take you past landmarks of interest.

36 the best of NORFOLK

Photography: Nick Read (The Globe) and Sylvaine Poitau

Wells-next the-Sea A harbour town with a lively array of stilted beach huts.

HISTORY Wells was a significant port in the 16th century. The old granary building, which harks back to the area’s historic malting – now converted to luxury flats. A striking and expansive green known as the Buttlands forms a focal point for the town. It is lined with lime trees and overlooked by elegant Georgian houses as well as the Crown Hotel and Globe Inn. THINGS TO DO AND SEE Situated in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty, Wellsnext-the-Sea is a typical seaside town surrounded by fragrant pine forests.

In the woods you will find various varieties of pine – scots, maritime and

corsican – which all grow on sand.

The diversity of habitats to be found at Wells attracts a rich variety of bird life, and its proximity to Titchwell and Cley make it a haven for birdwatchers.

Start at The Quay, the town’s midway point, where you can wander up Staithe Street or enjoy a leisurely walk along the footpath to the pinewoods and sandy beach beyond. There is a little train that goes down to the beach if you need to rest your legs

family picnic. Children can play in the shallow pools, build sandcastles on the dunes or fly kites. On a rainy day, check out Wells cinema.

HOTSPOT The Crown Hotel, NR23 1EX The Globe NR23 1EU

Wells is also a well-known spot for crabbing. The wide, flat beach with its belt of sheltering pinewoods and brightly-coloured beach huts is the perfect place to unwind, gather shells, run with the dogs or simply have a

best of RECOMMENDS EAT

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SIGHTSEE

The award-winning French’s superior, crispy-battered fish and chips.

Along the golden sands to Holkham.

All the beach and marshes on the Wells ferry: www.wellshabourtours.com

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The Crown If North Norfolk is the jewel in East Anglia’s glittering crown, The Crown Hotel in picturesque Wells-nextthe-Sea is the dazzling carat in its very centre.

The wildlife-rich Saltmarsh Coast is a land of big blue skies, vast sandy beaches, enormous fields of golden barley, photogenic villages and quaint seaside resorts.

And if you’re looking to experience the natural wonders offered by the northern extremity of one of England’s most unspoilt counties, you need cast your eyes no farther than The Crown Hotel.

A former coaching inn, the hotel is tucked away on the edge of a tranquil, tree-lined green in the bustling fishing port. But once inside The Crown, the hubbub of the quayside, with its throng of day-trippers enjoying fish and chips, ‘gillying’ for crabs and playing on the amusement arcades, seems an eternity away.

Refurbished to enhance its existing historic features, but still retaining a warm and welcoming ambience, the hotel has 17 luxury en- suite bedrooms.

Each is uniquely and individually decorated to create a warm and welcoming home- from-home atmosphere.

There are four family suites with separate children’s rooms and babymonitoring facilities. In some rooms you can even have your dog to stay.

Guests can select from a sumptuous and varied menu that makes superb use of the finest and freshest seasonal produce courtesy of New Zealandborn proprietor Chris Coubrough and his team.

Diners can choose to eat in the front restaurant, the spacious gun room or one of two cosy lounge rooms, adjoining the bar. The stone-floored gun room can cater for up to 100 people and is the perfect setting for celebratory and formal events, from weddings, anniversaries and birthday parties to corporate functions.

The Crown’s front restaurant is also available for hire as a private room and can cater for up to 35 people – ideal for small wedding parties or family lunches and dinners. It is also possible to hire the hotel in its entirety for your exclusive use, subject to availability.

A programme of special functions is held throughout the year, so whether you’re visiting in the height of summer

or the deepest depths of winter there’s likely to be something special going on. Wine evenings, French and jazz evenings, Fizz’n’Chip Fridays, Chinesethemed evenings and Ladies That Lunch events are just a few examples of what The Crown can offer.

The hotel’s Christmas and New Year packages, when Chris and his team lay on a unique festive experience packed with personal touches that will leave even the most pampered guest feeling thoroughly spoiled, have become the stuff of legend.

An oasis of calm it may be but, when you need to walk off the effects of the night before, the pinewoods, sand dunes and brightly coloured beach huts of Wells are just a brisk walk away.

Enjoy North Norfolk in style – The Crown Hotel in beautiful Wells-nextthe- Sea is the perfect place to eat, sleep, stay or just relax.

The Crown Hotel 01328 710 209 crownhotel@flyingkiwiinns.co.uk www.crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk

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Wells-next-the-Sea CHRIS COUBROUGH’S MAGIC INGREDIENT Wells-next-the-Sea has always been a very special place for me and I could not be happier to be based here.

As a businessman, I like to think that I am a good judge of what I am about to get involved in, but I had no idea the extent to which I had fallen on my feet when I came to the town in 2002.

It already had so many magical ingredients – the sea, the beach, the fishing boats, superb local produce and a fantastic community spirit.

Thirteen years on and, in addition to the amusement arcades, the cafes and the little shops selling seaside rock and buckets and spades – which have always attracted visitors – Wells has thriving schools, a vibrant cultural scene and places to eat and drink of which it can be justly proud.

For decades, most people visited the town as day-trippers or holidaymakers, but now many are returning to buy properties. It is not just second-home owners, however, who want a piece of the Wells action. Increasingly, others are clamouring to put down roots and to raise families here.

The visitors, who come from all over the country, know that once they arrive in the town they can park and

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leave their car for the duration of their stay. There is no need to drive anywhere. You can buy everything from a memory stick to a tide clock, from a pair of posh wellies to a crossbow. You can walk to the beach or out to Holkham, watch football in a pub, or go crabbing on the quay... it is all here. There is so much to do on your own doorstep and it is all within walking distance.

Thanks to investment in offshore energy, the area has a new source of revenue, which helps to keep the wheels spinning after the tourists have gone at the end of summer.

Before I became proprietor of The Crown, it seemed like a fish out of water – a Michelin-starred restaurant with a personality disorder. Now it is very happy in its own skin – as a place where visitors mingle happily with the locals and the dogs are welcome, too.

One couple who were regular guests when I took over the hotel came with their eight-year-old daughter and her little brother. They loved the place but urged me to introduce a children’s menu. After that the little girl always asked for fish goujons and her brother for sausage and chips.

Recently, that same little girl came back to stay at the hotel accompanied, not by her parents, but by a burly young man. I wasn’t sure if I should alert her father until it dawned on me that she was now aged 21. That brought home to me just how long I have been in Wells – an entire generation. We are now building 10 new rooms (making 22 in total) to meet the demand for accommodation in the town.

Over the years, Wells has changed, becoming even better in my opinion, and it has done so without having to sell its soul. The success of my business depends on the success of the town and I believe it is a sound investment.

Wells is still a place to play on the shove ha’penny machines in the arcades and build sandcastles on the beach, but it is so much more than that – as the perfect place to eat, sleep and relax.

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the Morston experience The hamlet of Morston, on the A149 Norfolk coast road, is easy to miss, but it’s worth putting high on your list of holiday destinations as it has a surprisingly large variety of visitor attractions, considering its diminutive size.

Popular for sailing and boating, it faces the largest sheltered harbour on the North Norfolk coast, with a host of birdlife and large colonies of grey and common seals at Blakeney Point. Ideal for long walks and breath-taking views, Morston also boasts the renowned, Michelin-starred Morston Hall and the award-winning Anchor Inn. STAY The famous Morston Hall offers superbly-appointed rooms and Michelin-starred food. With 17th century origins, the intimate, historic country house ranks in the top ten of the UK’s best gourmet hotels.

Enjoy a delectable traditional English afternoon tea by the log fire in winter, or in the walled garden in the summer.

It’s recommended that you book in advance. morstonhall.com #MORSTONHALL

SEE Temples Seal Trips offer a unique and rare opportunity to visit wildlife in its natural surroundings. The knowledgeable crew introduces visitors to the common and grey seals basking on the end of Blakeney Point.

Don’t miss the common seal pups from June to August and the grey seal pups in winter. Tickets are available from The Anchor Inn. sealtrips.co.uk

EXPERIENCE

A great location for lunch or dinner, the Anchor offers some of the tastiest mussels on the coast. A perfect pitstop for walkers along the coastal path, it has hosted boat parties and racing awards for the Oyster Regatta, as well as charity events and National Trust lunches. The Anchor also sells tickets for Temples Seal Trips.

Norfolk Etc is one of the finest sailing and powerboating centres you can find. A family-run, highquality watersports provider, it operates in the tidal wildlife haven of Blakeney Harbour. Offering a personal, professional and friendly service, the company has created a business that complements the area’s natural features, while catering for a wide variety of sailing desires.

The knowledgeable and friendly staff organise Royal Yachting Association sailing and powerboat courses, seal-watching trips, stand-up paddleboarding and bespoke parties for celebrations, such as birthdays, reunions and hen or stag groups.

morstonanchor.co.uk

norfolketc.co.uk

EAT

RETAIL AND GALLERY Since Bluejacket Workshop opened at Morston Quay five years ago, shoppers seeking original artworks and unusual home furnishings have beaten a path to its door. Founded as a workshop by Nick Hamond, making traditional timber furniture, and his father Ned, crafting elegant copper sconces and chandeliers – this year sees Bluejacket’s reputation consolidated, stocking the hand-made, the locally produced and the one-off.

This year, Bluejacket’s founders and artist Wendy Watt have invited artist Chloe Mandy to exhibit her Norfolk landscapes and still-life paintings, while design duo Paul Vater and Paul Barratt, from Tinsmith’s House, will introduce up-cycled and repurposed decorative furniture.

Other exhibitions include Paul Bommer and Ashlee Symington’s prints and drawings; Carolyn Brookes-Davies’ ornamental shell work; designer Madeleine Spencer’s jewellery; Teucer Wilson’s sculptures and stone-carvings; Paffron and Scott’s antiques and textiles and Roberta Hamond’s Gansey knits. The online shopping offer will also be developed.

Inside Bluejacket

bluejacketworkshop.co.uk

Ned Hamond

Nick Hamond

Chloe Mandy

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Walsingham A place of faith and pilgrimage since 1061.

HISTORY Walsingham is actually two villages about a mile apart – Little Walsingham, where the main attractions are located, and Great Walsingham which, in true Norfolk style, is much smaller.

At its height, in medieval times, Walsingham rivalled Canterbury and the great shrines of Europe, with pilgrimages from all over the world.

The shrine remains popular today, especially at Easter when it attracts some 100,000 pilgrims. The town also contains the ruins of two medieval monastic houses.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE Don’t miss the snowdrops at Walsingham Abbey in February, when

the 18 acres that surround the priory ruins are carpeted with masses of Galanthus, coinciding with the religious festival of Candlemas.

The charm of the village itself makes Walsingham worth a detour. The half-timbered buildings set the place apart from other towns and give it an antique feel.

The village is also home to the awardwinning Walsingham Farms Shop, set up to celebrate the experience of Norfolk food, in reaction against ‘soulless’ trips to supermarket chains.

Here you can watch sausages or game pies being made using seasonal, locally sourced produce, and sit down to a meal in the restaurant.

Linking Little Walsingham to the coastal town of Wells-next-the-Sea, four miles away, is the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway – the longest 10 narrow-gauge steam railway in the world, offering a scenic journey over five bridges and through lovely countryside.

HOTSPOT Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, Norton Café bar, underneath the rectory.

best of RECOMMENDS HOP ON

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The Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, a regular service that gives you ample time to explore everything before catching the train back: wellswalsinghamrailway.co.uk

A spot of horse riding at the North Norfolk Riding Centre. The well-equipped Little Walshingham stable offers great value rides for an hour or more.

A guided tour of Walsingham will give you an insight into a place of pilgrimage since 1061.

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Pr Owoud n to Ar o t S ffe ch r t em he e

Find us at the end of The Quay.

Westgate Street, Blakeney, Norfolk. NR25 7NQ

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

Blakeney

LEISURE CLOTHING GIFTS

CRABBING STATION

BEACH ACCESSORIES

TOYS

Visit our shop on the High Street where every item has been hand created by craftspeople in Great Britain… and much of it in Norfolk!

WESTGATE STREET, BLAKENEY, NR25 7NQ

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BLAKENEY Blakeney was once a busy medieval commercial port until the estuary began to silt up to form the tranquil nature reserve that we know today. Many people visit Blakeney just to sit on the quay and watch the boats. However there’s more to the village than meets the eye.

In a side street off the quay look out for a 14th century Guildhall which has an early example of a brick built vaulted ceiling. The beautifully restored, village church is large and spacious with many interesting features.

Park for free by Blakeney Village Hall and take time to explore our favourite businesses. You can take a circular walk around the village that takes you across The Pastures, a green open space - a perfect place to enjoy a picnic or walk the dog!

THE FLINT GALLERY AND QUAY ART Blakeney is an established destination for Britain’s leading artists to exhibit their work. The two galleries in Blakeney, at either end of the quay, have an excellent reputation for exhibiting original paintings, printing techniques, sculpture, ceramics and glass.

Established in 2008, the Flint Gallery’s contemporary fine art includes oil paintings, watercolours, bronze sculptures, ceramics and glassware.

The spacious and welcoming gallery shows the work of up to 40 creators at any one time, with prices ranging from £100 to £5,000.

Quay Art is a print-makers’ gallery, specialising in linocuts, etchings and collagraphs. With a range of affordable ceramics, jewellery and original watercolour and acrylic paintings created by local artists, prices start at just £10 and go up to around £500. theflintgallery.co.uk

THE HANDCRAFTED COMPANY The Handcrafted Company is a real find. Located on the High Street, everything in this characterful shop is hand-made and supports over 50 British artisans. Stocking only the best contemporary craft and design. The Handcrafted Company offers unique gifts and beautiful items for your home, such as ceramics, textiles, glass and jewellery.

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CRAB CLOTHING This bright, vibrant and colourful shop, on Westgate Street, stocks a comprehensive range of leisurewear and accessories for men, women and children, including Crew Clothing, Hedge Betty and Gone Crabbing.

There’s also a fun selection of toys and gifts and, of course, all the equipment you could possibly need for some serious crabbing!

BLAKENEY HOUSE This refined B&B in a victorian villa is a short walk from Blakeney Quay, offers nine gorgeous bedrooms with ensuites, along with a sitting room and dining room. Situated on High Street, it boasts a large, secluded garden and is fully licensed. Open to residents and non resident for afternoon teas (from British Summertime) and evening fine dining (available all year, booking essential).

BLAKENEY COTTAGE COMPANY With over 114 holiday cottages in stunning locations, from romantic retreats for two to luxury houses sleeping up to 14 people, Blakeney Holiday Cottages are available for weekend getaways, midweek breaks or full week holidays. The proprietors hand-pick every property for the best selection of perfect hideaways. Pop into their offices next to the quay for a friendly chat. blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk

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THE ANCHOR SHOP A short walk up the High Street from the quay, The Anchor Shop is a real Aladdin’s cave, offering a surprisingly large selection of gifts, cards, toys and accessories. There is always something different and the friendly staff are happy to help customers find the perfect gift. Open daily.

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BLAKENEY DELICATESSEN Awarded the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2015, Blakeney Delicatessen is a family-owned fine food and wine shop on the High Street, offering local goods, deli foods from around the world and a selection of wines. Hand-made foods are prepared there daily, alongside fresh local produce, including sausage rolls, tarts, breads, pates, soups and original dishes. Menus change regularly. blakeneydeli.co.uk Follow them on twitter @BlakeneyDeli

BLAKENEY BOLT HOLES Blakeney Bolt Holes offers a small selection of luxury cottages, predominantely aimed at couples and mainly pet friendly, so your best friend can come too. Each of the ‘bolt holes’ is unique and rather special, some guests come back to try them all!

To discuss your next Blakeney break contact Fren or Ed on 01263 800326. blakeneyboltholes.co.uk

Time to unwind, space to relax Luxury cottages on the North Norfolk Coast.

From contemporary chic to amazing sea views each of our bolt holes is unique, rather special and fully equipped so your holiday can start the moment you walk through the door.

For full details, or to discuss your next Blakeney break find us at: blakeneyboltholes co.uk 01263 800 326

35 High Street, Blakeney, NR25 7NA Open daily for gifts, cards, accessories and beautiful things for the coastal home. www.anchorblakeney.co.uk 01263 741555 or follow us on twitter @anchorblakeney

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STIFFKEY Recorded in The Domesday book, the village is probably most famous for it’s former vicar, the Reverend Harold Davidson who after a notorious court case in 1932, was convicted on charges of immorality and defrocked. Davidson strongly protested his innocence and to raise funds for his reinstatement campaign he exhibited himself in a barrel on the Blackpool seafront. He performed in other sideshows of a similar nature and died after being attacked by a lion in whose cage he was appearing in a Skegness seaside show.

These days Stiffkey is home to the two notable businesses below, both well worth stopping, shopping and staying for as you discover the delights of the coast road.

THE STIFFKEY RED LION The Stiffkey Red Lion has all the appeal of an old English inn, mixed with the comforts of a modern hotel.

Its uncluttered charm appeals to walkers, birdwatchers and those seeking rest, good food and drink after wildlife-watching at the nearby saltmarsh.

A warm welcome awaits you as you sample excellent local beers, including Nelson’s Revenge from the Woodford stable, great wines from our wine merchant, Corney & Barrow and mouth-watering food from local sources, at prices to please. There’s no piped music - simply sit and relax amid charming old pews and enjoy the glowing fire in the bar, which creates a welcoming centre-piece. stiffkey.com 01328 830551

STIFFKEY STORES Now in their 10th year in business, Andy and Alice have turned this general store into a popular destination, where fresh cakes and patisseries are baked daily in-store, served with delicious coffee. Browse the shelves to find a varied array of local produce, cards, books, children’s goods, plants and flowers. With the sunny courtyard and cosy beach huts, the experience can be enjoyed whatever the season. The store is open every day, all year round. stiffkeystores.com 01328 830489

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Cley-next-the Sea Wander through the reed beds of the Cley Marshes, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

HISTORY Cley was once one of the busiest ports in England. The many Flemish gables in the town are a lovely reminder of commerce with the Low Countries.

Since the port silted up in the late 19th century, tourism has thrived in the area from the Victorian era to today.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE Cley – pronounced to rhyme with pie – is a pretty village protected by an immense shingle bank, not far from Holt. Don’t leave without visiting one of the county’s most iconic landmarks, the Cley windmill.

Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitors’ centre and cafe has great views over the salt marshes and tidal creeks. There is also

a noticeboard alerting birdwatchers to recently spotted species. With the telescopes pointing out towards the shingle bank and sea, this is a good starting point for acquainting yourself with the local bird life.

St Margaret’s church is a fine example of 13th-century architecture with craved gargoyles, medieval glass windows and graffiti.

Cley has a creative feel, thanks to the co-operative of local craftsmen and women at Made in Cley and the local art at Pinkfoot Gallery. The nearby Shell Museum has a quirky Victorian collection of shells, fossils and other curiosities that are quite imaginative.

Cley Smoke House and Picnic Fayre, a well-established deli with everything from spice pastes to local fruit and vegetables.

For a nearby trip, drive out to the beautiful Glandford Valley where you will find the elegant Bayfield Hall Country House. Pop into The Old Stables for an antique emporium in an historic setting.

HOTSPOT Artemis Antiques and Coffee Shop NR25 7RA

Food plays a big part in village life with

best of RECOMMENDS LOOK

FISH

WANDER

Check the local birding bible in The George Hotel for a record of recently spotted birds.

For smooth-hound and bass at the beach.

Excellent for sea fishing, with a shingle bank for beginners.

Among the reed beds surrounding the windmill.

They form the oldest county Wildlife Trust reserve in Britain.

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Are you looking for a holiday cottage in Norfolk?

Book one of our lovely cottages and our friendly staff will do their best to ensure you have a great holiday!

Browse online or call in to see us and relax in our coffee shop

“ This B&B exudes Scandi panache and has a beautiful village setting” L i z B o u l t o n , G u a r d i a n Tr av e l

Destinations, 17 High St, Hunstanton www.my-destinations.co.uk/cottages Email cottages@my-destinations.co.uk

Guesthouse | Gourmet Supper Club High street, Cley-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk NR25 7RB

Tel 01485-340044

01263 741 439 |

www.oldtownhallhouse.com

“One of the most memorable and enchanting places to stay in Britain” Fiona Duncan in The Telegraph

Hotel

Dinner

Weddings

House parties

Cley Windmill, Cley-next-the-Sea, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7RP Telephone: 01263 740209 www.cleywindmill.co.uk

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best of HOLT Lying half an hour to the east of Holkham is the pretty town of Holt. You can find it in the Domesday Book, where its inhabitants were listed as 90 men, 60 pigs and a cart horse. This established town owes its current look to 1708’s “Great Fire of Holt”, which took just three hours to destroy almost all the town’s medieval buildings.

The Georgian inhabitants put their hearts and souls into reconstructing their town, resulting in the beautiful maze of streets which draw in so many visitors to this day.

Don’t miss …

Holt Country Park, just a couple of miles from the centre, is a great place to stretch your legs among the Scots Pine.

ART GALLERIES Art fans are sure to enjoy a visit to Holt, as there are notable galleries to visit. The Red Dot Gallery re-locates this year, there is also Bircham Gallery and Picturecraft, a gallery held in great local affection, thanks to its changing exhibitions of local artists. thereddotgallery.com birchamgallery.co.uk picturecraftgallery.co.uk

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BACK TO THE GARDEN Less than half a mile from the middle of Holt in Letheringsett, you’ll find Back to the Garden café and delicatessen. With a wide range of local produce and organic meat, it’s so easy to leave with a local souvenir. The café at the rear of the barn is set in a beautiful flower garden – perfect for a relaxing snack.

NR25 7JJ back-to-the-garden.co.uk

DEPARTMENT STORES Bakers & Larners, the biggest department store outside Norwich, is part of a family business which has served the area since 1730. Having gone through many changes over the years, and provided all sorts of goods and services during its evolution, it’s now worth a visit to explore this historic institution, and treat yourself to something tasty from the food hall.

MORSTON TOWN & COUNTRY

bakersandlarners.co.uk

Stockists of traditional stylish wax, tweed and fur clothing, Morston Town & Country hold extensive ranges of modern tailoring that retain a strong commitment to classic British heritage.

You’ll also find a range of beautiful accessories and footwear. If it’s understated luxury you’re looking for, Morston Town & Country should be your first choice.

NR25 6HT morstontownandcountry.co.uk

NICHOLSONS THE POWER OF COLOUR

Local knowledge Also worthy of a visit is Letheringsett Mill, the last watermill in Norfolk that still produces flour.

Lovingly restored, it grinds organic wheat and is open 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. letheringsettwatermill.co.uk NR25 7YD

ANTIQUES If you’re looking for a piece of history to take home, you won’t be disappointed when you visit Holt. The town centre is home to several antique shops worth exploring from Mews Antiques Emporium, Holt Antiques & Interiors Centre and Holt Antique Furniture are all worth a visit.

More than just a boutique, Nicholsons specialise in how using colour can work for every woman. Personal service comes as standard, but customers can book a dedicated one-to-one session with Nicholsons’ in-house Style & Holistic Colour Consultant Jane Davidson, who takes the time to get to know how colour can enhance the life and wellbeing of every client. nicholsonsuk.com

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VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

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

MORSTON town & country

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

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HOPPERS YARD Escape the stresses of everyday life and be enchanted by the ‘must visit’ destination in Holt. You can browse in its exciting mix of shops the take tea in the Folly Tearoom or its garden where vintage romance will surround you.

THE SUGARED ROSE CAKE COMPANY If you’re looking for stunning bespoke cakes that are all individually made, fresh to order, visit the Sugared Rose Cake Company. Also focusing on sugarcraft work, including hand-made sugar flowers, this specialist shop sells pretty gifts associated with baking.

The owner, Alyson Bash is on hand to offer advice and help to customers with any icing and cake-decorating problems. This is a unique service which isn’t available at the average supermarket! facebook.com/ thesugaredrosecakecompany 01263 860566 GLORY DAYS This is the home of ‘retro-politan’ colour, so if you’re looking for retro kitchen units, unusual flamingos, clocks, pouffes, oilcloth, bedding and even vintage collectible lamps, this is the place for you. Gorgeous gifts filled with fun are promised by proprietor Ruth Northway, who says the idea is to combine colour and kitsch to “make everyone smile”. Glory Days offers a warm welcome. glorydays.co 01263 714024

FOLLY TEAROOM The Folly Tearoom is an enchanting place where the magic of a time gone by combines with quirky vintage décor, this and it’s beautiful garden, combine to ensure the perfect atmosphere to relax in.

Traditional afternoon tea is served with over 40 different unique teas. A very warm welcome awaits you whatever the time of day. Everything is homemade created and served with love from breakfast to early evening bites. Open Winter 9-5 Monday to Saturday-Summer 9-6. follytearoom.co.uk 01263 713569

TEA CADDY The Tea Caddy is the must go destination for tea lovers. It offers you the chance to taste and buy forty different teas and fruit infusions uniquely blended with love and attention to detail by Judith herself.

Tea as it should be. The teas are wrapped and weighed while you wait.

You will find tea caddies, strainers, tea cosies, teapots and individual gifts galore. Visit us and enjoy the total Tea Caddy Experience.

KADDOURI, round the corner at FRANKLYNS YARD A vibrant, independent boutique Kaddouri offers a distinctive selection of stylish, contemporary women’s fashion, jewellery and accessories. The owner, Leila, brings her own fabulous sense of style and eye for the unusual.

Browse a wonderful array of quality designer clothing and accessories from Avoca, Freddy and Saskia, featuring striking jewellery in silver and semiprecious stones, exclusive to Kaddouri, alongside sumptuous, colourful throws in lambswool or cashmere. kaddouri.uk 01263 478867

TATTY TIDES Probably one of the smallest shops in North Norfolk yet packed with plenty of charm. This delightful little interiors and gift shop aims to bring a stylish and inspiring mix to enhance your country and coastal lifestyle. Every item has been lovingly chosen by mother and daughter team Kathryn and Rosie who pride themselves on continuously searching for new and exciting pieces.

There is always something different to find at Tatty Tides. tattytides.co.uk 01263 711505

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GRESHAM’S SCHOOL Gresham’s School, enviably located between the unique coast and countryside of north Norfolk, offers an education that combines great tradition with innovation and imagination.

Established in 1555 after former Lord Mayor of London, Sir John Gresham left a bequest to the Fishmongers’ Company to found a free school for just forty pupils, our school continues to go from strength to strength. As a co-educational day and boarding school, children join our vibrant nursery aged three and can remain part of the Gresham’s family through to Sixth Form where they can make a choice to study A levels or the widely respected IB Diploma.

Attracting pupils from across the UK, Gresham’s offers a varied and welcoming environment set in 200 acres of countryside. The school has a strong commitment to providing first-class facilities for its pupils, and has recently committed to an ambitious and exciting scheme to build a new Music School and Sixth Form Centre and significant improvements to four boarding houses. The two-storey music centre development, costing £5m, includes classrooms, music practice rooms, a recording studio, a 140 seat auditorium that will be used as a Sixth Form lecture theatre as well as performing space, cafeteria and social spaces for pupils.

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Four boarding houses at the Prep and Senior School will be the subject of much improvement with permanent extensions that will provide a comfortable and enjoyable home from home environment for boarders.

Pupils joining Gresham’s immediately become part of a unique community where parents can be assured that they will become immersed in a fulfilling and hugely varied school life. With high standards of teaching and the provision of our Academic Enrichment Programme, pupils develop strengths, talents and interests, all of which are recognised, nurtured and celebrated.

At Gresham’s, pupils contribute to excellence in a vast range of activities and disciplines including drama, sports, art, music, Duke of Edinburgh, leadership and design.

Our positive environment boosts confidence, happiness, self-esteem and well-being allowing our pupils to develop into well-rounded, selfassured adults able to manage the demands of modern life.

Leaving Gresham’s at 18 years old, our pupils go on with the skills, knowledge and most importantly the confidence, strength and desire to make their mark.

Empowering our pupils to make choices that suit them and supporting them as they prepare to take the next step in life leaves them with not just a wealth of career options and opportunities but with memories of their years at Gresham’s that they will cherish for a lifetime.

Many progress to the universities of their choice including prestigious institutions such as Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, Exeter, Durham, UCL and Edinburgh.

Equally, our pride in our Old Greshamians is as strong as their fondness for their time at school where they discovered the freedom and room to grow in to successful adults. Old Greshamians have been inspiring others for generations from composer Benjamin Britten and poet W.H. Auden to the founder of the Dyson Company, Sir James Dyson and physiologist and biophysicist Sir Alan Lloyd Hodgkin. More recently, Old Greshamians making their mark and creating headlines include international rugby players Tom and Ben Youngs, BAFTA award winning actress Olivia Colman, television and radio presenter Paddy O’Connell and Classical15/12/15 Brit Award9:58 151215 121x168mm winning singer Humphrey Berney.

GRESHAM’S ONLINE AND ON FILM To learn more about life at Gresham’s see our website at www.greshams.com, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Watch our pupils talk about why they love being at Gresham’s at www.greshams.com/filmclips Visitors to Gresham’s are most welcome. Contact the Admissions team on 01263 714614 to arrange a tour of the school.

Open Days are held in the Autumn and Spring Terms, or pupils can join one of our taster days to sample life at the school. Our next Open Days will take place on: Nursery & Pre-Prep School Monday 2 May 2016 Prep School Saturday 14 May 2016 Senior School Saturday 30 April 2016 SCHOLARSHIPS The school offers scholarships to exceptional children who show outstanding potential academically and/or in the fields of Art, Drama, Music and Sport. Scholarships are available to children wishing to Page for 1 a place in Year 7, Year 9 apply or Sixth Form.

Old Greshamian, Esme Haywood joined the Prep School in Year 5 and progressed to the Senior School with Academic and Drama scholarships. In 2015, she took her IB Diploma and achieved 44 out of a maximum of 45 points (the equivalent of 5A*s at A level).

Esme is currently enjoying a gap year and has accepted a place to read Chemistry at Brasenose College, University of Oxford in 2016.

Esme said, “I would not have achieved half of the things I’m most proud of if it hadn’t been for the school and the dedication of its staff. I was stretched in my studies ensuring I reached my full potential.”

Space to grow.

Set in 200 acres of beautiful countryside and just 4 miles from the breathtaking North Norfolk coast,Gresham’s gives your children all the time and space they need to develop into confident, well-rounded young individuals.

Open Days An opportunity to meet our pupils and staff, explore our facilities and see the school in action.

For further details,visit www.greshams.com A co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged between 3 and 18.

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Be creatively inspired...

Experience our beautiful shop where the love of colour, unusual fabrics and creative designs reflects our passion for individuality.

MASAI

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OSKA

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SAHARA

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BACKSTAGE

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OUT OF XILE

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TWO DANES

33 High Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6BN 01263 711230 www.nicholsonsuk.com & find us on Open Monday to Saturday 10am – 5pm, Bank Holiday opening 10.30am – 4pm

Ones to Watch THE BEST OF NORFOLK’S FINE ART North Norfolk is awash with fine art galleries and we have asked leading gallery owners to select artists that they consider ‘ones to watch’. The majority of these artists are exhibiting in their galleries so why not pop in to get a close-up look. If you are tempted by that special find you can also take advantage of the ‘Own Art Scheme’ where payment can be equally divided and spread over 10 months.

Quay Art Gallery Blakeney

Gallery Plus Wells-next-the-Sea Gallery Plus boasts unrivalled natural light and offers a unique browsing and buying experience in a refreshingly bright and airy exhibition space. We love colour – it’s good for the soul! – so the gallery is a colourful and uplifting place to visit. There is a high-quality, on-going mixed show of original paintings, original prints, ceramics, glassware, sculpture, and jewellery by popular artists and makers from around the country, as well as one-man exhibitions.

Gallery Plus is also home to the open studio of contemporary artist, Trevor Woods. Visitors are intrigued

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to watch Trevor at work. They can see the processes he uses, from the drawing-out stage to the final painting. There is a professional picture-framing service on-site, with a wide choice of mouldings. Expert advice is freely given to help choose the right frame for your requirements.

We pride ourselves on our friendly welcome and relaxed atmosphere – with an unpressured approach, which has proved popular with returning customers.

Gallery Plus Warham Road Wells-next-the-Sea Norfolk NR23 1QA

The Quay Art Gallery, in Blakeney, continues to specialise in exhibiting work of leading print technique artists from across the UK. One such artist is Kerry Buck, who graduated in 1997 from The Norwich School of Art and Design where she specialised in Illustration.

Since then Kerry has been working as a professional illustrator and has completed commissions for Hodder and Stoughton, Which, Guinness and Norwich Union.

Throughout the year Quay Art will be showing Kerry’s beautifully delicate original collagraphs inspired by Britain’s diverse wildlife. Her work has a strong following and now appears in private collections in the UK, Europe and across the world.

01328 711609

Quay Art Gallery 4 The Granary High Street Blakeney Norfolk NR25 7AL

gallery-plus.co.uk

01263 740013

4 The Granary High Street Blakeney Norfolk NR25 7AL Tel:01263 740013

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

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

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

Bircham Gallery Holt Tony Foster lives on the North Norfolk coast and his recent work explores the possibilities of interpreting his feelings for the area – without attempting a literal representation.

Adrian Hill Holt Rosa Sepple is an elected council member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours (RI). Her paintings have been purchased for private collection worldwide and shown at major venues including exhibiting at The Royal Academy.

Above all else, Rosa Sepple’s unique

style brings a whimsical feel to her paintings. People appear to float or fly in her work and architecture leans or topples in magical directions to complement a composition.

Adrian Hill Fine Art 23 Lees Yard Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6HS 01263 711040 adrianhillfineart.com

Tony’s usual medium is acrylic paint and collage to build layers of texture and colour. The nature of the medium allows the paintings to develop organically, and he enjoys the freedom and opportunities this technique offers.

Tony works on paper and canvas and, more recently, has started working in watercolour.

Bircham Gallery 14 Market Place Holt Norfolk NR25 6BW 01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk

Fairfax Gallery Burnham Market The gallery exhibits both figurative and abstract work from established, award-winning and emerging talent and has developed a style that has earned it a loyal following. Whether you are interested in landscapes, figure paintings or beautiful sculpture, we hope you enjoy our selection.

The gallery also attends major UK and international art fairs. The gallery offers a chance to view work of a standard rarely seen outside London – in relaxed and peaceful surroundings.

Advance II (oil on aluminium panel) is painted by Mary Jane Ansell, a finalist in the BP Portrait awards, who has exhibited exclusively with Fairfax for more than 10 years in the UK and overseas. Her next solo exhibition is at 8 Duke Street, London W1, in autumn 2016. Contact gallery for details.

Fairfax Gallery North Street Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8HG 01328 730 001 fairfaxgallery.com

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‘My Guy’ ◦ Mixed Media ◦ 40 x 32 inches Rosa Sepple RI Lees Yard can be found through the archway from the Albert Street Car Park or from Bull Street

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CERAMICS SCULPTURE

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GLASS

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CONTEMPORARY FINE ART

OIL PAINTINGS

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WATERCOLOURS

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MIXED MEDIA

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Proud to offer the Own Art Scheme

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

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

The Flint Gallery of Contemporary Art Blakeney One of The Flint Gallery’s most respected and sought-after artists, Ana Bianchi, trained as a designer in Paris and then studied fine art at Chelsea, the Byam Shaw and Central Saint Martins in London. She has exhibited widely in the UK and Europe.

In her most recent works, Ana handles the texture, colour and form of the land with a sculpting hand, almost carving the paint on to the canvas with a layering of varied tone and brushwork. Often inspired by the landscape and coastline that surrounds her, these paintings are explorations of the cutting and layering of shape and colour in a rural setting. They combine a rich palette with a tendency to abstraction and painterly brushwork.

She will be exhibiting new paintings inspired by North Norfolk and beyond at The Flint Gallery throughout 2016.

The Flint Gallery of Contemporary Art Westgate Street, Blakeney Norfolk NR25 7NQ 01263 741791 theflintgallery.co.uk

14 Market Place Holt Norfolk NR25 6BW

Field Flowers . from an original painting by Paul Evans

Modern & Contemporary British Art

Open and airy gallery space, boasting unrivalled natural light.

Paintings, original prints, ceramics, sculpture, glass, and jewellery by artists and makers from around the country Trevor Woods Contemporary Art - working studio open all year round

Exhibition programme & catalogue birchamgallery.co.uk Open 9am-5pm Mon - Sat Tel: 01263 713312

Picture framing service - professional advice and friendly guidance

Gallery Plus . Warham Road . Wells-next-the-Sea . Norfolk . NR23 1QA 01328 711609 . info@gallery-plus.co.uk . www.gallery-plus.co.uk

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NORFOLK

crafters

CHARLOTTE HOWARTH

ALISON BARNES

ANNA MARTIN

I was introduced to letter carving at the age of 15 by my stepfather, David Baker. I went on to have a long and formal education in lettering and carving and today I work predominantly in stone, but also in wood, paper, metal and Perspex. Using letterform, text, pattern, light and reflection, my work is an exploration on themes of communication, identity, ownership and place. I would describe myself as a narrator and I enjoy recording details or our everyday lives.

I work on a range of commissions, small and large-scale – anything from garden sculpture, large public commissions and private memorial stones.

I am a designer/maker working from my studio in the heart of Norfolk, creating one-of-a-kind and bespoke jewellery pieces. Each piece is handmade, worked predominantly from silver and gold, with use of precious and semi-precious stones, and more recently Whitby Jet. Inspiration for the jewellery I design and create is widely diverse, with examples inspired by mood, surroundings, events and travel. More often it is the result of subconscious inspiration. An idea will form, flourish and further develop through the creative process without a sketch or design plan, the result of which is an eclectic mix of jewellery pieces. All appropriate items are fully hallmarked, including my maker’s mark at the Goldsmiths’ Company London Assay Office. I am a member of the Guild of Jewellery Designers, and recently gained membership of the Norfolk Craft Guild.

Based in Colney, outside Norwich, I am one of the UK’s few independent rugdesigner/makers. I create bespoke art for the floor. My rugs begin life in my studio as backing cloth stretched over a large frame. I then use a hand-tufting gun, which pushes wool through the cloth to create a thick pile. This allows me to paint with wool, giving my rugs spontaneity and fluidity. As a textile maker, I am driven not only by the visual qualities of my work but by the tactile nature of the materials.

I aim to create a stirring experience for the eyes as well as a sensual one for the feet. Working to commission, it is important to me that the rug sits comfortably in the environment it has been designed for. This is developed through consultations with clients so each rug is as individual as the home it will live in.

I have just returned from a seven-week Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Travelling Fellowship in Greece and Italy – studying Ancient Greek and Roman inscriptions. It was a fantastic experience and I am looking forward to using some of my newfound knowledge in my work. making-marks.com

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prooshanblue.co.uk

annamartinrugs.co.uk

CLAIRE KNIGHT

CAROLYN BROOKES DAVIES

JILL SHARPE

I am a paper cut artist. Each of my designs is hand-drawn and handcut with a scalpel. It is a slow and thoughtful process.

My background as a sculptor, my love of natural form, and a move from London to North Norfolk in 2003 have led me to explore my childhood passion for collecting shells. I have always felt drawn to the sea and beach, and searching for shells, with their accidental beauty, subtle colours, shapes and textures, is as pleasurable as finding treasure. I have found inspiration in the beauty of shells.

Their endless ornamental possibilities have inspired me to make elaborately decorative shellwork objects that owe their appeal to the exquisite and unique intricacies of individual shells.

Each is a small gem that I carefully select for form and colour, which, when repeated in sequence, creates beautiful sculptural forms and textures, the natural colour palette dictated by the accidental quality of the shell.

My ornamental work includes shellencrusted boxes and caskets, candleholders, ornately decorated mirrors and gilded shell moulded bowls.

I find inspiration in a variety of forms – from organic shapes to ancient patterns and I work to develop designs that explore flow and movement.

The differing aspects of the sea and landscape are an abiding source of inspiration. My work explores textures and form and I enjoy developing a variety of surface treatments to interpret my ideas. My early training as a dressmaker and subsequent interest in patchwork and quilting has led me to work in stitched textiles.

My degree in Visual Studies, from Norwich University College of the Arts, has expanded my approach and given me the skills to seek a variety of interpretations of my ideas. I use hand and machine techniques to create work that reflects my interest in texture and movement. I work mostly in silks and cottons and often dye and over-dye my own fabrics to create the exact colours and effects I require.

I use carefully chosen elements in my designs to evoke the viewer’s emotions. I often choose a tree as the essential feature in a piece, as a mature tree is intergenerational and symbolises the inescapable link between our ancestors, ourselves and the generations to come. I also include the landmarks and creatures of our daily lives; dogs, hares, owls and common garden birds. The sun and the moon rule the ebb and flow of all our lives and their presence in my work is often gilded with a fractured 22 carat gold leaf.

In addition to exhibition pieces I take commissions celebrating life events, or just celebrating life. hareandmoongallery.co.uk

jillsharpe.co.uk

bluejacketworkshop.co.uk

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Fakenham A bustling market town that comes alive on race days Sculthorpe Moor

HISTORY Fakenham has had market-town status for centuries, with the first recorded trading as early as 1250.

Today’s Thursday market still takes place close to its original medieval location around the parish church.

For an interesting glimpse into the town’s past, visit the small Museum of Gas and Local History, housed in the original gasworks.

MARKET DAYS Thursdays are when the town comes to life. There is everything you would expect from a market – and much more. You will find a vast range of exotic spices, fruits, vegetables, cheeses and meats, not to forget the flea market.

There is also a popular farmers’ market in the market square on the fourth Saturday of every month and a monthly makers market at Fakenham parish church.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE Voted Norfolk’s Best Large Attraction 2014, Pensthorpe Natural Park is located just outside the town. Home to many exotic and rare water birds, and set in the calm oasis that is the Wensum Valley, it’s a lovely place to unwind. There’s plenty to keep the children occupied, with exciting trails, adventure play and more.

family affair, so bring everyone along – children under 17 are admitted free and adult entry is £10.

For a drink, The Sculthorpe Mill is the place to go. It has a converted 18thcentury watermill set beside a flowing river and landscaped garden.

HOTSPOT Sculthorpe, Mill NR21 9QG

Race days are keenly anticipated at Fakenham Racecourse and take place throughout the year. The races are a

best of RECOMMENDS BROWSE

VISIT

EXPLORE

Bric-a-brac and house clearance in the antique shops on Norwich Road.

Sculthorpe Moor nature reserve, internationally recognised for its wildlife and woodland, fen and reed habitats.

Hootz House and Wildrootz with adventurous play nature’s way at Pensthorpe.

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Pensthorpe Natural Park

Naturally inspiring the next generation Open 10am daily | Fakenham NR21 0LN | www.pensthorpe.com

Holiday ACCOMMODATION

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

Location is everything and when it comes to spectacular scenery a cottage in Norfolk is hard to beat.

The fact that holiday cottages are self-catering is the single biggest advantage for many holidaymakers, giving you the chance to try local produce at your own pace as well as eating out in some of the county’s great restaurants and eateries.

Holiday cottages are ideal for groups and large families – family and friends can get together round the dinner table at night, relax in the garden during afternoons or play board games during the evenings.

Many holiday cottages admit pets, so there is no need to confine Toto to kennels while the rest of the family enjoys a week or two away.

Renting a self-contained holiday cottage means there’s little chance of your dog disturbing other guests and many places have a garden or outside space for pets to enjoy.

For those who don’t have children, the extra space that staying in a holiday cottage provides can be a life-saver. Being able to spread out means you can really relax and enjoy your stay.

It’s true that there won’t be someone on hand to change your towels or make your bed every day – but why worry? You’re on holiday after all!

The Boathouse, available for rental from The Blakeney Cottage Company

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With over 250 of the finest hand-picked holiday homes in coastal North Norfolk

Trust us to find the perfect place for you

Tel: 01328 730880 www.sowerbysholidaycottages.co.uk

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To explore Norfolk properly, you’ll need somewhere to stay.

At Norfolk Country Cottages we adore Norfolk and wish for as many people as possible to discover it for themselves. We understand that holidays spent with friends and family are the most special times of our lives. Whether they are booked way in advance or as a last-minute get-away, holidays are highlights looked forward to by everyone and cherished for years to come.

As a local, trusted, family-run company with 24 years of experience, our customers stay with us year-on-year for the service we deliver and owners enjoy working with us for our marketing expertise and the high number of bookings we achieve for them.

expa se Even though we offer the largest portfolio of properties to choose from, we select and visit each and every property and only include those we would want to stay in ourselves. From expansive, red brick and flint barn conversions Norfolk is renowned for, to cosy coastal cottages for two, there’s an array of choice. Plus, every one of our properties is VisitEngland assessed annually – offering that extra peace of mind.

So, no matter whether you’re interested in staying in Norfolk, or wish to speak to us about letting your property, please don’t hesitate in contacting us. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Norfolk Country Cottages | Email info@norfolkcottages.co.uk | Website norfolkcottages.co.uk Holt The Old Crab Shop, 1 Cross Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HZ | T: 01263 715779 Burnham Market 3 Emma’s Court, Burnham Market, Norfolk PE31 8HD | T: 01328 738939

5

BEST THINGS TO DO IN

Spring & Summer

Wroxham Barns Visitors love bottle-feeding the lambs and they really are adorable. They are orphan lambs who come to Wroxham Barns from local farms when they are really tiny, so visitors often return several times to feed them and to see how they’re getting on. They usually have at least two dozen lambs and they make sure all the younger visitors have a turn at bottle-feeding. wroxhambarns.co.uk

Hire a classic beach hut for the day Forget the sandy towels and flapping windbreaks- this year hire a traditional beach hut to create your very own haven right on the shore. Luckily these glorious sheds are in abundance in Norfolk, available at Wells-next-theSea, Hunstanton and Cromer.

Details can be found in the tourist information centres or at visitnorfolk.co.uk

Glide Surf School at Cromer This popular surf school runs 7 days a week from April to the end of October, with lessons taking place at the east side of the pier. Anyone over the age of 8 can get involved, with group bookings of up to twelve people accepted. If it’s a calm day try stand up paddle boarding- currently the fastest growing water sport, also available inland on beautiful freshwater lakes. glidesurfschool.co.uk

Plantation Gardens in Norwich For the ultimate secret garden experience, these beautiful and historic gardens are tucked away next to the Catholic Cathedral. They are Grade II English Heritage registered and are filled with immaculately maintained foliage stretching over three acres.

You can’t miss the medieval wall! plantationgarden.co.uk

Go Ape Increasing numbers of adults are discovering that Britain’s number one forest adventure isn’t just for kids.

Go Ape cater for grown ups too and their adult fan base is now well established. Get in touch with your inner Tarzan on the Tree Top Adventure, a great way to get active in stunning scenery that you’ll enjoy just as much as the kids do. goape.co.uk

DISCOVER MORE Get fruity with some pick-your-own strawberries at Wiveton Hall wivetonhall.co.uk Play Golf Norfolk has great taster sessions for beginners getintogolf.org Put those binoculars to good use bird watching in spring at Titchwell Marsh rspb.org.uk Find your inner Robin Hood and have a go arrowsarchery.com Go crabbing or seal spotting at beautiful Blakeney for just £10 per person sealtrips.co.uk Drift quietly above the open countryside or the tranquil Norfolk Broads broadlandballoons.co.uk

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Summer

A RECIPE FOR Eric Snaith at Titchwell Manor

Halibut, Honey Soused Vegetables, Avocado Purée, Sorrel Serves 4 Halibut works well with this dish, but the garnishes are very versatile and would work with most fish, especially Seabass or Turbot. The marinade is a great recipe and works with lots of different vegetables, and is particularly enhanced by using local honey, ours is from Brancaster. We use a lot of fresh sorrel; it grows really well in our herb garden and is definitely a good one to plant at home.

For the Halibut 4x 125g halibut fillet Dash of rapeseed oil Knob of butter Maldon salt For the Vegetables 8 baby turnips (½ cm of green left on) 8 round radishes 8 small cauliflower florets (same size as radishes) 1 medium sized red onion, quartered into ‘petals’ 1 carrot sliced into ‘buttons’ 2mm thick For the Marinade 300g white wine vinegar 500ml water 250g local honey Juice of ½ a lemon Pinch of salt

For the Avocado 150g Hellmann’s mayonnaise 150g crème fraiche 40g lime juice 2 ripe avocados, peeled and stone removed 10g wasabi paste salt to taste For Garnish 8 sorrel leaves, washed 1 golden beetroot very thinly sliced 1 candied beetroot very thinly sliced

Preparation method For the vegetables, combine all marinade ingredients and bring to the boil, add all vegetables and take off the heat, allow them to cool in the liquid.

For the avocado, combine and purée all of the ingredients in a blender, mix until it is smooth, pass this through a fine mesh sieve, season with salt to taste.

For the halibut, pre heat the oven to 200c. Heat a non-stick frying pan until hot, add a little rapeseed oil and place the halibut in the pan, skin side up and turn down to a low to medium heat, leave the halibut until it is golden brown underneath, then turn onto a baking tray, skin side down. Season it with Maldon salt and put a small knob of butter on top of it, cook it in oven for 1-2 minutes, when you are able to peel the skin easily off, the Halibut is perfectly cooked.

To serve, bring the vegetables up to the boil, smear avocado on the base of the plate, add the sorrel leaves, then place the warm vegetables on the plate and top with the halibut, finish with slices of raw beetroot.

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RETRE AT S Laid-back luxury holiday cottages in Nor th Norfolk

Barefoot Retreats

Luxury properties

BAREFOOT RETREATS is passionate about marketing luxury holiday properties that are individual and unique, from cottage hideaways, to beautiful boltholes, coastal gems and rural retreats.

AS OUR GUESTS you will have the keys to some of the most beautiful and individual homes in Norfolk; providing a distinct laid-back luxury holiday experience ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive, until you return the keys. You’ll have access to our exclusive concierge service, ideal if you’re organising a special celebration or want to experience something different on your holiday. And once you’ve chosen your property, you’ll receive a Barefoot guide ensuring you have all the information you could need to enjoy your precious time away.

AS A HOME OWNER we will maximise the earning potential of your

second home by managing all the marketing, PR and guest liaison for you.

Sharing your holiday home should be as easy and enjoyable as the holidays our guests will enjoy there and we will make it our job to look after your home as if it were our own, providing you with a fully managed service.

WHY BAREFOOT? As our guests you can look forward to a boutique

hotel experience with the freedom of self catering. All our properties feature a welcome hamper, Barefoot branded bathrobes, slippers and beautiful linens.

If you’re looking for a wonderful holiday experience or are considering marketing your home and are seeking a fresh and innovative approach, please call us on 01485 512245 or visit our website www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

Barefoot Norfolk Ltd, High Street, Thornham, Norfolk, PE36 6LX 01485 512245 • enquiries@barefootretreats.co.uk • www.barefootretreats.co.uk

Amazing places

Unique experiences

THE TEAM

EMMA brings a wealth of experience from her time spent running one of the county’s foremost independent hotels, The Hoste Arms for over 20 years. Her profile in East Anglian hospitality gives her a unique insight into the luxury market, allowing Barefoot to offer an undeniably high standard of property and customer service.

HELEN gained considerable PR, marketing and brand experience with national and multi-national companies.The importance of exposure can never be underestimated and Helen has a long established track record of successful marketing campaigns.

He le n Mil lin Director

Emm a Ta g g Director

www.barefootretreats.co.uk

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

Horning Rd, Hoveton NR12 8JW bewilderwood.co.uk 01692 633033

Fly a kite from Beeston Bump, the highest point of the Cromer ridge of undulating cliffs, standing at 203 feet.

The Bump looks like a giant molehill due to a geological feature called a kame – and is ideal for kite-flying!

Stunning flint formations known here as pot stones can be found on the beach below. The Bump can be climbed using the ‘Peddars Way and North Norfolk Coastal Path.

Another great family activity is crabbing a great pastime for any age.

The best places in north Norfolk are Sheringham , Cromer , Blakeney and Wells.

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SUDNAYNS Y

BECCLES LIDO AND BIG DOG FERRY Nothing beats swimming outdoors so why not visit Beccles Lido, the heated open-air pool in Beccles with slide, diving board, giant inflatable aquarun, grassy areas and sun-loungers to relax on. By the River Waveney our café serves hot and cold snacks, drinks and ices. Perfect for a swim or a family day out. We also offer Canoe Hire (advance bookings only) or you could take a more relaxing river trip on Big Dog Ferry to the historic Locks Inn at Geldeston. beccleslido.com 01502 713297

bigdogferry.co.uk 07532 072761

HILLTOP OUTDOOR CENTRE BRESSINGHAM Climb aboard a magnificent steam engine at Bressingham. With over four miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four journeys to choose from, it’s the perfect day out for young children.

The season starts on the 23rd March check the website for the daily timetable.

Low Road Bressingham IP22 2AA www.bressingham.co.uk

Hilltop Outdoor Centre in Sheringham offers an exciting array of activities including high ropes, climbing wall, super swing, 3D climbing maze, assault course, The big zipper and the first activity of its kind in England…

The Air Jump.

Hilltop, offers a unique visitor experience providing educational trips to Schools as well as children’s birthday parties throughout the year and family adventure days during the school holidays.

Beeston Regis NR26 8TS hilltopoutdoorcentre.co.uk 01263 824514

SNETTISHAM PARK This 329 acre working farm offers a unique 45 minute Deer Safari. You’ll meet the spectacular herd of red deer with over 60 hinds and 2 stags, all of which are more than happy to be hand-fed. First safari leaves at 11.30, be sure to ring ahead to avoid disappointment. Don’t miss the calving months of May, June and July when you will be able to see the beautiful spotted calves.

Snettisham Park Bircham Rd, King’s Lynn PE31 7NG snettishampark.co.uk 01485 542425

HOOTZ AT PENTHORPE

NORWICH CASTLE One of Norwich’s most famous historic landmarks, the castle was built by the Normans 900 years ago. The castle is a museum, with lots to see inside and many interesting displays. The galleries offer fascinating exhibitions, including natural history specimens, items from ancient Egypt, fine and decorative art and archaeology. Visitors can even go on a battlement and dungeon tour.

Castle Meadow, Norwich NR1 3JU museums.norfolk.gov.uk

Enjoy an epic indoor adventure and engage with the natural world as you journey your way across rope bridges, scuttle up ginormous tree towers, and race your way down winding slides as Hootz welcomes you to his magical world. In fine weather, you can swoop like a falcon, scramble like a spider and dig like a mole as you discover underground burrows, zip wires and an assault course in the trees with adventure play, nature’s way in WildRootz. pensthorpe.com/wildrootz

FOR

RAI

THE

NY

DAY S

Norfolk is a real playground for children – it’s packed with adventure to suit all ages and interests, whatever the weather

FARMER FRED’S PLAYBARN Farmer Fred’s is East Anglia’s largest children’s indoor play area, offering fun, fun, fun for children aged 0 to 80!

For older children we have a state-ofthe-art interactive eye-click gaming system, as well as an adrenaline racing slide and 3-D spider tower to scale.

Our younger visitors are certainly not left out – there is an age 2 to 4s area with a specially designed low ropes adventure course and a fenced-off 0-2s’ area, full of stimulating, sensory equipment, away from the hustle and bustle of the older children. Grownups are not forgotten either – we have comfy sofas, free Wi-Fi, barista quality coffee and a healthy, nutritious menu with home-cooked food. No turkey twizzlers here!

Farmer Fred’s, Norfolk Lavender, Heacham, PE31 7JE farmerfredsplaybarnnorfolk.co.uk 01485 579526

ChIlDrEnS

NORFOLK THE SHERINGHAM MUSEUM This is a great museum by the sea that records the history of life in bygone Sheringham, with lifeboats and oldeworlde shops. There is also an insight into the workings of the offshore windfarm and a collection of photographs, social history items, agricultural items and fishing artefacts, as well as a spectacular fleet of boats. The museum is currently closed until April 2016 due to renovations.

Lifeboat Plain, Sheringham NR26 8BG sheringhammuseum.co.uk

HIGH ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK This is the is the perfect place for letting off some steam! Located at Whiffler Road, Norwich, wall to wall trampolines are connected together to form one huge bounce area with angled trampolines, so you can literally bounce off the walls! Whether you’re an adrenalin junky looking for your next thrill, or a parent wanting fun with your children, you can’t beat a visit here on a rainy day. It’s suitable for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Book online to avoid a long queue. highaltitudepk.co.uk

Possibly the finest self-catering throughout North Norfolk…

For many people visiting Norfolk for the first time it is rather a revelation! Far from being Noel Coward’s ‘very flat, Norfolk’, the gently undulating countryside conceals pretty little villages tucked between ancient woodland and a patchwork of fields. The endless miles of beaches, salt marsh and little estuaries are teeming with wildlife and the great open skies are an artist’s delight. The pace of life is slower and for many holidaying in the area, an amazing sense of peace and calm takes over from the worries of everyday living.

Take time to wander from village to village visiting one of many famous stately homes in the area, or to discover the myriad of coastal and countryside footpaths and walks. Try sampling the wonderfully fresh local produce, either in one of the many village pubs and restaurants or from delightful local suppliers of everything from lobsters, crab and shellfish, to fruits, asparagus and local speciality breads and cheeses.

Staying in one of the many beautiful self catering properties dotted around North Norfolk, visitors to the area can take full advantage of this laid back life style. The Blakeney Cottage Company has the pick of luxury and unusual holiday homes in the area, from one bedroom romantic retreats to country houses sleeping up to eighteen guests and every size and style in between!

With over one hundred handpicked properties in their portfolio of coastal and country special places to stay, guests can enjoy all the delights of this unique corner of England.

The Blakeney Cottage Company has quietly gone from strength to strength over the past few years with owners of holiday properties seeking them out to represent and manage their second homes following recommendations from friends and colleagues. The owners of this family run company are justly very proud that their reputation for excellent customer care, both for

82 the best of NORFOLK

the owners they represent and guests wishing to stay in and around the area, and this reputation has resulted in a portfolio of properties that have come to them purely through word of mouth. Due to the unprecedented demand for their marketing skills they have decided to expand their operation to allow more owners to experience their unique service .

As James Player, director of the company explains, ‘We take the time to really find out what aspirations and expectations the owners of properties have. We are happy to offer advice prior to the purchase of second homes and welcome discussing possible renovations required that will maximise the letting potential of any property. If owners want a full make over we work very closely with a talented interior designer who has a great grasp of the letting market, but also we have years of experience ‘in house’ and know exactly what works for guests and owners alike through having very successful letting properties of our own.’

‘Guests can either pick out their ideal choice of property from our live, informative website and book online or they can give us a call with their requirements or any queries they may have. Everyone at our main office on Blakeney Quay has intimate knowledge of all the properties on our books and can help guests through every step of choosing, booking and making the most of their holiday in North Norfolk. Guests can have complete confidence that we will give them an honest assessment whether the properties they have been considering will meet all their demands and expectations, whether for a short break, special occasion or family holiday.’

With levels of returning guests being exceptionally high and many of these guests then deciding to purchase and place their new holiday hideaways with The Blakeney Cottage Company, it seems this well established and approachable company most certainly understand exactly what is needed when choosing a great place to either buy, let out or stay in.

The Blakeney Cottage Company The Granary High Street Blakeney North Norfolk NR25 7AL 01263 741777 blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk

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• Now featuring more than 190 properties • Locally based, specialising in North Norfolk holiday homes • Flexible management solutions for 2nd home owners

Kett Country Cottages portfolio of holiday cottages ranges from small romantic boltholes to houses with the capacity to sleep over a dozen guests in comfort. We can now offer anything from swimming pools and tennis courts to log fires and peace and quiet. Holidaymakers can choose from sea views, rural scenery, town houses and just about anything in between.

FAST GROWING BUSINESS

PERSONAL APPROACH

SIT BACK AND RELAX

While the sandy beaches and plentiful wildlife are making North Norfolk an increasingly popular holiday destination, Kett Country Cottages is becoming an increasingly popular letting service.

As a company we take pride in Norfolk and our staff are bursting with local knowledge. Whether you want to know the distance to the nearest pub or the best place to see wildlife, you can ask us anything. Many of the pubs, shops and attractions in the area are featured in our Kett Discount Scheme for holidaymakers.

Our goal is to make the running of a second home a pleasure and our hands-on approach allows both owners and guests the chance to relax. We offer a variety of management service packages and give owners a free hand in choosing when they want to use their properties. As we are based in the heart of North Norfolk we are always available to lend a helping hand.

Please call 01328 887683 or email info@kettcountrycottages.co.uk for more owner information.

Over 10 years we have grown considerably and now manage more than 190 properties in the North Norfolk area.

The vast majority of the properties on our books are used regularly as holiday homes by their owners and therefore offer the combination of style, comfort and practicality that you would expect from a home from home.

Kett Country Cottages Newmans Yard 9 Norwich Street Fakenham Norfolk NR21 9AF 01328 887683 info@kettcountrycottages.co.uk kettcountrycottages.co.uk

We aim to provide a personalised service to both Owners and Holidaymakers, ensuring that everyone is happy. We tailor our recommendations to your exact requirements so you don’t have to trawl through unsuitable material. Although we love all of our properties they all offer something different and we think it is important to match our customers with the right holiday destination.

DON’T WORRY ABOUT A THING Apart from being equipped to the highest standards, all the Kett cottages come with our own local guide book. This can only be produced by experienced local people who are well placed to pass on their local knowledge.

It provides a practical and subjective view on the principal attractions and amenities in North Norfolk, allowing our guests to minimise ‘acclimatisation’ time and get straight on with the important business of enjoying their holiday.

5

BEST OF NORFOLK’S

Ecclesiastical TREASURES

The Norfolk diocese has the highest concentration of medieval churches in northern Europe In addition to this there are 71 redundant churches, over 100 ruins and approximately 300 churches and chapels whose presence is no longer visible in the landscape.

All of which reflects Norfolk’s position as one of the richest and most important areas in medieval England.

With such a rich history it’s well worth taking the time to visit these inspiring buildings. Here we recommend five of our favourite locations.

Norwich St Peter Mancroft Dating from 1430 and in the perpendicular style, St Peter Mancroft has a fine collection of medieval and renaissance treasures and C18 monuments. Possibly one of the finest churches in the City of Norwich.

Cley-next-the-Sea, St Margaret of Antioch The present Church, featured in Pevsner and in Simon Jenkins’ 1000 Best Churches, dates from the early part of the 14th Century and stands on the site of an earlier building, across the valley from Wiveton Church. In the Middle Ages the valley between the two was navigable water, used by coastal and foreign craft and bringing considerable wealth to the area. The south porch of the Church with its carved stone heraldry, provides a beautiful entrance. Once inside one is aware of the almost cathedral-like proportions of the high nave and the vast west window and the cinquefoil windows of the clerestory flooding the interior with light. There has been a continuous restoration programme for the last 25 years and this year has seen the north, south and west medieval doors repaired and re-hung by a team of expert craftsmen.

Cley Green, Cley-next-the-Sea NR25 7TT

Millennium Plain, NR2 1RD

Ranworth, St Helen St Helen’s is known as the Cathedral of the Broads and houses one of the finest medieval rood screens in England and an historic illuminated manuscript. There are great views over the Broads from the tower.

Woodbastwick Road, Ranworth, NR13 6HT

Wickhampton St Andrew St Andrew’s church has beautiful C14 wall paintings including “Seven Deeds of Mercy”, and stone effigies from C13 of a lady and a knight. The church is overlooking Halvergate Marshes - a haven for nature lovers and for walking.

Church Road, Wickhampton NR13 3PB

East Harling, St Peter and St Paul East Harling is one of the real ‘gems’ of Norfolk churches. Lovers of architecture, craftsmanship, monuments and especially medieval glass will find much to delight and fascinate them. East Harling church is famous for the quality of its C15 workmanship but the core of the building is at least a century older.

Built in a prominent position next to the River Thet.

Church Road, East Harling NR16 2NA

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Cromer A busy town with plenty to explore through its narrow streets.

Cromer Pier

HISTORY Cromer’s seafaring past is beautifully preserved in the Cromer and RNLI museums – both packed with history and tales of bravery, including tributes to local lifeboat legend Henry Blogg.

Every year Cromer hosts the last ‘End of the Pier’ show in Europe, now in its record-breaking 29th year. It should not be missed. It is a traditional British summer variety performance that changes every year.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE The massive perpendicular tower of Cromer’s parish church can be seen from every direction. The tower is open to visitors and the view from the top is well worth the effort – you will see that the Bittern Line links Norwich with Cromer and Sheringham by train.

Aside from sampling the famous Cromer crab (best in early summer) and watching the crab boats, be sure to spend time on the shoreline.

Cromer’s safe, sandy beaches have consistently won both the Keep Britain Tidy Seaside Award and the prestigious EU Blue Flag award for water quality. Patrolled by lifeguards in

summer, the beach is ideal for families of all ages.

If you want to get away from it all, two miles east of Cromer is Overstrand beach. It is great for fossil collecting and ideal for swimming and for families with children. When the tide retreats there are sandy pools for paddling and to play in.

HOTSPOT Huckleberries Cafe NR27 9HH

best of RECOMMENDS EAT

VISIT

SWOOP

Good, old-fashioned fish and chips from Mary Jane’s or Galton Blackiston’s new fish-and-chip restaurant, No 1 Cromer. Both are excellent.

The Rocket Cafe for great views and a bite on the seafront.

If you are here in summer, try the newest surfing trend – stand-up paddle-boarding at Glide Surf school (open April to October).

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Virginia Court Hotel The award-winning Virginia Court Hotel, offering stylish accommodation within a converted Edwardian Club House, is located just moments away from Cromer beach and the town centre. Retaining its No.1 status on TripAdvisor for the 5th year running, Virginia Court is famous for it’s friendly welcome and exceptional service.

Open all year round, the Virginia Court Hotel is one of the best independently owned hotels in Cromer, offering stylish accommodation in a variety of room styles which are unique in size and layout.

Choose between doubles, king/twin bedded rooms or for that bit of added luxury the new Junior Suites.

Located in a quiet tree-lined avenue that is centrally located and an easy walk to Cromer beach, Cromer Pier (with its Seaside Special show) and the town centre it’s a great place to stay to explore North Norfolk.

Its restaurant, which is open to nonresidents for evening meals, offers a full à la carte menu serving local daily Cromer Crab specials (when in season)

and an abundance of Norfolk-sourced dishes.

All bedrooms feature modern en-suites with great power showers, comfortable beds with hypoallergenic four season duvets and pillows to ensure a perfect night’s sleep. Within the rooms you’ll find fair trade teas and coffees together with flat screen TV’s & DVD players.

The hotel benefits from a spacious garden and outdoor seating, and it’s here that afternoon teas are served in its warm ‘suntrap’. Additionally there’s a large free car park, free Wi-Fi and a relaxing lounge with bar.

Knowledgeable staff are committed to providing high quality service and are always on hand to help with planning daytrips locally or further afield.

This is the perfect hotel to choose in Cromer to enjoy a North Norfolk break.

Open all year round, the Virginia Court Hotel is one of the best independently owned hotels in Cromer, offering stylish accommodation within a converted Edwardian Club House where all the rooms are unique in size and layout.

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

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THE KIT BAG AT EAST RUNTON

THE GARDEN HOUSE GALLERY & SHOP

REGATTA OUTDOOR CLOTHING FOR MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN, WITH MUCH AT CLEARANCE PRICES And that’s not all. You can find cammo clothing for adults & children, Jack Pyke clothing & equipment.

Rucksacks, sleeping bags, casual workwear together with a range of genuine military surplus clothing. So if you like birdwatching, fishing, gardening, or just being in the fresh air we will

This former fisherman’s cottage is now home to a constantly changing and vibrant display of work by local artists and crafts people as well as a quirky mixture of gifts and home accessories sourced more widely around the UK and further afield.

probably have something for you.

TEl: 01263 513934 YOU cAN fINd US ON THE A149 cOAST ROAd, 1 mIlE wEST Of cROmER SAT NAv: NR27 9NX

88 the best of NORFOLK

31, GARDEN STREET, CROMER, NR27 9HN 01263 511234 www.gardenhousegallery.co.uk

FIVE OF PICKLE & PIP’S DOG FRIENDLY PLACES Our canine correspondents top tips 2015 has been an eventful year for me, what with the birth of my little one Pip. So far I have found motherhood as exhausting as it has been rewarding, as she’s a lively puppy who is quite literally an ankle biter. I enter the new year wearied by parenthood, but comforted by the little luxuries that Norfolk offers to me and my pup.

Norfolk’s Beaches

The Orange Tree, Thornham

For the second time running, the Norfolk coast has been crowned with the Kennel Club title of England’s best dog-friendly beach.

This year Holkham took the top spot, the ideal place for a brisk chase across massive stretches of sand, followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. The Beach Cafe at Wells-nextthe-Sea remains my favourite for its excellent Dog Wash facilitiesperfect for a freshen up. bedogfriendlyawards.com

A travelling pooch like me really appreciates a dining pub where I can put my paws up. All the ground floor rooms are dog friendly, and water bowls are never far away to quench one’s thirst. The Scoobie Snacks menu is delicious - everything from probiotic salmon to juicy Pigs Ears washed down with gravy. theorangetreethornham.co.uk

Pooch’s Handmade Norfolk Dog treats When it comes to treats, nothing beats Pooch’s for local sourcing and quality. With meat fresh from their Norfolk butcher and venison brought in directly from Holkham Hall, they bake healthy snacks that are enough to make us all behave - even Miss Pip. We’ve found the Pig’n’Mix is a great incentive for training sessions! poochs.co.uk

Rough and Tumble Drying Coats Getting muddy and wet on a nice country walk makes me feel on top of the world, but can’t help feeling a little cold and deflated afterwards.

Luckily Ruff and Tumble make some cosy towelling coats that leave me dry as a bone in no time. They are designed in Brancaster and are very popular among Norfolk’s most stylish hounds - Pip still needs to grow into hers! ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

Gunton Arms, Thorpe Market Still coming in top place for a VIP hound experience, the Gunton Arms never fails to disappoint. They have two dog friendly rooms equipped with cosy dog bed and bowls, and allow us to access one of the bars and one restaurant.

Forget waiting in the car during mealtimes, at the Gunton Arms we’ve got pride of place. theguntonarms.co.uk

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Sheringham A traditional fishing resort with a great Victorian past.

HISTORY While many of Norfolk’s coastal spots have been gentrified, Sheringham remains gloriously untouched. Roads crammed with little flint fishermen’s cottages define the town, which was a popular resort in Victorian and Edwardian times – and remains so today.

J C Madge lifeboat, which gives a glimpse into the area’s coastal past.

You will find another two lifeboat museums on the eastern side of town, next to the Crown pub. A wealth of local information can be found on experiencesheringham.com, not least the route for the historic Sheringham trail.

MARKET DAYS On Wednesday and Saturday, the busier day, there is a thriving market in the car park next to the North Norfolk Railway station.

The town has one of the three blueflag beaches along the coast and perfect for a day on the pristine sandy beach.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE The town’s most famous landmark is its pretty clocktower. From here, the very successful Little Theatre is just a stone’s throw away, as is the

The Mo Museum on the seafront is also worth a visit with bright galleries where you can walk amongst an extraordinary historic fleet of lifeboats and fishing boats.

train, as there is an active railway station linking to Cromer and Norwich via the Norfolk Broads, as well as the more scenic North Norfolk Railway along the fabled Poppy Line to Holt, via Kelling Heath. You can’t miss the plume of steam rising when it is running.

Sheringham Park offers several wellmarked walks, with glimpses of the sea, including one for wheelchair users.

The park is at its best in May and June when the spectacular display of purple rhododendrons is in flower.

HOTSPOT

Sheringham is easily accessible by

The Mo Sheringham Museum, NR26 8BG

VISIT

EXPERIENCE

STROLL

Nearby the exquisite Peter Coke Shell Gallery museum on West Cliff (free admission).

The Fishermen’s heritage centre housed in the historic Fishing Sheds on West Cliff.

along clifftops in Sheringham Park, unchanged from Victorian times and overflowing with rhododendrons and azaleas in spring.

best of RECOMMENDS

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Blyth & Wright

Traditional Ironmongers since 1897 We are perhaps the largest independent ironmongers in East Anglia, offering traditional services, products and values. handmade iron door and window • loose nails, screws, bolts and washers • a wide range of hand tools chain and rope cut to length • plumbing and electrical fittings and much, much more...

KITCHEN & CHINA CRAFT

We have an extensive range of modern and traditional baking, cake decorating & preserving accessories.

Stockists of Kitchen Craft • Great British Bake Off • Kilner and a treasure trove of other cookware.

We also stock famous china and crockery brands including: Moorcroft Emma Bridgewater Portmeirion Franz

34/40 Station Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RQ Telephone: 01263 823258 www.blythandwright.co.uk

A Real Family Business

“

We pride ourselves on our service to customers... Whether you spend 50p or £50 we like to feel you get just as good service.

“

The store pictured in the 1930s. Back then it was a single shop front, but over the years Ron and Richard Wright astutely bought adjoining shops that came up for sale, developing the business into the hive of rows.

Blyth & Wright A real family business At the age of 84, Ron Wright still puts on his shop coat every day to work in the family ironmongers business in Sheringham, North Norfolk.

It is a job he first started in the Blyth and Wright business over 70 years ago at the tender age of 13. Back then, in 1944, his father Clarence Granville Wright’s shop was one of three ironmongers in the seaside town.

Times might have changed, but the popular department store now employs a staff of 18 and sells everything from kitchen goods to garden furniture and fine china. But the army of loyal customers can still buy a single screw for just five pence. The shop is now managed under the watchful eye of son Chris, 48.

It first opened as C A Sadlers in 1897, when Queen Victoria was on the throne. It wasn’t until Mr Wright’s father, Clarence, bought into the business in 1930 that it took its present name.

It started as a single shop front but, over the years, Mr Wright and his brother, Richard bought adjoining property, expanding the business into the hive of rows and rooms stocking thousands of products it is today.

Despite the shop’s change in size and range, the Wright family has battled to keep its traditional charm. A washing mangle is tucked in between the woodburning stoves and a collection of ancient screws. But with progress, oldfashioned flat irons were replaced with modern electric ones in the 1920s. And one of the shop’s biggest sellers, dry toilet buckets, were phased out with the advent of flush lavatories.

Mr Wright was also a top gunsmith and did a brisk trade selling shotguns to local landowners and farmers. As Ron and his brother Richard, now deceased, grew up they expanded into glass and china.

Speaking with the launch of the shop’s new front, Richard said: ‘We pride ourselves on our service to customers.

Although this is a large shop, you can still be served by the proprietor.

Whether you spend 50p or £50 we like to feel you get just as good service.”

To experience a truly unique family business when you are in Sheringham, make sure you pay Chris and his colleagues a visit you’ll understand first hand why they say: “Blyth and Wright – I bet we’ve got it!”

Sheringham’s 1940’s Weekend Each September the sounds of 1940s Britain fill Sheringham, which goes back in time for a popular living history extravaganza.

Hosted by the heritage North Norfolk Railway (NNR) which runs between Holt and Sheringham it’s really an event not to be missed.

From bespoke utility suits and elegant dresses to authentic Home Guard, RAF and Women’s Voluntary Service outfits Sheringham’s streets and the railway bustle with people in authentic clothes from the era.

In front of the steam engines, couples dance on the station platform, music from the time is played along the High Street and shop fronts are transformed into 1940s businesses with staff dressing the part.

Over the years this event has attracted more and more visitors and more and more exhibitors. It is widely felt to be one of the best events of its type in the country. Come in uniform or 1940s civilian dress to add to the atmosphere. nnrailway.co.uk 01263 820800.

Open daily between 10 am and 4 pm.

Don’t forget your gas mask and ration books!

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Central Norfolk and The Brecks

Best of the region Central Norfolk and The Brecks 96 Central Norfolk and The Brecks events 98 Swaffham 99 5 best things to do Autumn & Winter 102 A recipe for Winter 103 Reepham 104 Six Epicurean Delights 108 The best of Norfolk Food 110

the best of NORFOLK 95

best of the region CENTRAL NORFOLK and THE BRECKS Central Norfolk is predominately made up of The Brecks, a beautiful expanse of natural landscape stretching from Bury St Edmunds in the south to Swaffham and Castle Acre in the north.Thetford Forest and Kings Forest collectively form the largest lowland forest in the UK, and have miles of tranquil trackways and paths to explore on foot, cycle or horseback. As one of the driest parts of Britain the large skies are often blue, and the area is also home to some small yet historic market towns.

NARBOROUGH HALL This enchanting hall is surrounded by ancient parkland and a watery landscape of lakes, woods and romantic gardens. The peaceful River Nar flows through the grounds, and the orchard and kitchen garden are a thriving organic haven. Described in photographer Clive Nichols’ recent book as “Romantic English gardening at its best”, the grounds overflow with gentle English colour, a lake full of waterlilies and roses that cascade down every facade of the beautiful old Hall.

PE32 1TE narboroughhallmoss.com

ENGLISH WHISKY A great visit for a rainy day is the English Whisky company in Roudham.

They use Breckland water and Norfolk barley in the production of their malt whisky, which any seasoned drinker will appreciate. They run two different tours of the distillery; a standard tour for £10 and the World Whisky tasting tour a with a chief whisky maker for £30.

NR16 2QW englishwhisky.co.uk

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VANESSA SCOTT Local food campaigner Vanessa Scott is the director of Strattons Hotel & CoCoes Deli and a well known face on the Central Norfolk foodie scene.

She and her husband Les opened Stratton’s Hotel and Restaurant in in 1990, developing a run-down, private, listed building into an award-winning boutique hotel with a reputation for strong environmental ethics. Hidden away off the Market Place in Swaffham the hotel has rooms that are individual and eclectic in style, with sustainability one of Stratton’s watchwords.

A patron of the Norfolk Food and Drink Festival, she is a driving force behind the Brecks Food & Drink Festival, which has given a much-needed platform to show what an amazing larder the Brecks has, from the reared and cultivated through to the enormous wild and foraged offering.

PE37 7NH strattonshotel.com

GRESSENHALL FARM AND WORKHOUSE This excellent museum offers a great family day out with much to explore both inside and out. Discover hundreds of relics of Norfolk’s rural life as well as a dairy where you can learn about the history of milk, butter and cheese production.

Alongside these exhibitions of working and domestic life you’ll find a farm full of East Anglian breeds that are maintained by traditional techniques. Cart rides depart from the farm yard most afternoons but are dependent on the weather.

This living museum is only open during the February half term, so make sure you don’t miss it.

NR20 4DR museums.norfolk.gov.uk

SATURDAY MARKET Swaffham has a vibrant Saturday market in the middle of the town that goes back centuries with many different stalls ranging from fish, fruit and vegetables to everyday wares and old trinkets.

With an 8.30 am start, it’s a good idea to get there early to stock up on your local produce.

Did you know?

Howard Carter was a Swaffham resident and the town’s museum has a Egyptology room dedicated to him and his worldrenowned discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen

ELVEDEN ESTATE All foodies would enjoy a visit to the Elveden Estate. With an AA Rosette restaurant and a nature trail through the woodland, it’s a smart place for a stopover. Its food hall has more than 50 local artisanal producers of fine food and wine and there is also an inhouse butchery with estate reared beef, wild venison, free range chickens and lamb.

PE37 7QH

IP24 3TQ

aroundswaffham.co.uk

elvedencourtyard.com

the best of NORFOLK 97

CENTRAL NORFOLK AND THE BRECKS events 2016 JUNE Swaffham Cycling and Walking Festival | June Welborne Arts Festival | June JULY Forest Live at High Lodge Thetford Forest | Simply Red | 3 July Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott | 2 July AUGUST Wayland Agricultural Show | 7 August Reepham Summer Festival | 13 -14 August Thetford’s Great Festival | August ‘THE BIG ONION’, Elveden, part of Thetford’s Great Festival | 5-6 September SEPTEMBER Brecks food and drink festival | September OCTOBER / NOVEMBER Wayland Festival | October Norfolk Walking Festival | October/November

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Photographer: Nick Ford

Swaffham A medieval town set in a unique landscape.

HISTORY The town centre of Swaffham has more than 100 listed buildings– a testament to its eventful past. You can’t help but notice the 18th-century Buttercross and Assembly Rooms, and if you visit during a market day you’ll definitely pick up on the traditional bustling atmosphere. The town owes its success to the boom in the medieval wool trade, and has been a popular holiday destination since Georgian times.

MARKET DAYS The town still hosts its 800-year-old thriving weekly market and outdoor auction on Saturdays. On every third Sunday of the month, a farmers’ and craft market is also held.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE Swaffham is a brilliant gateway to exploring the diverse landscapes of the fenland to the west, and the gently sloping healthland of the Brecks to the south. Look out for pingo ponds while you’re out exploring. They are created from small holes in the earth from the melting of the Ice Age. Put on your walking boots or hop on a bike to explore Peddars Way and the many winding footpaths rich in wildlife.

When you reach Weeting Heath keep an eye out for rare bird species, such as the stone curlew, nightjar and woodlark.

Egyptology room at the Swaffham Museum, commemorating the town resident who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun. Another must-see is the UK’s largest solar panel tracking system at The Green Britain Centre.

If you have time, visit the romantic Oxburgh Hall, a moated 15thcentury National Trust property with battlements and grounds at Oxborough, just a few miles out of town.

HOTSPOT Market Cross Café, PE37 7AB CoCoes Café Deli, PE37 7NH

When stopping in the town, don’t miss the double hammer-beam roof with carved angel decorations in St Peter and St Paul Church, or the brilliant

best of RECOMMENDS CLIMB

VISIT

TAKE IN

up 300 spiraling steps to the top of a wind turbine at The Green Britain Centre and enjoy the 360-degree views. greenbritaincentre.co.uk PE37 7HT.

Shabbytatt, and Ciclic, for an eclectic mix of antique, 20th-century modern design and vintage pieces at reasonable prices.

The Arts Lounge at Market Place a contemporary gallery with a eclectic mix of work. theartslounge.co.uk

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Strattons is an award winning boutique hotel, restaurant and cafe deli offering cool contemporary style with originality and strong environmental ethics.

14 individual, sumptuous eclectic bedrooms and suites; maybe a carved four-poster bed; an open fire; a freestanding bath at the foot of the bed with room for two; a Moroccan style tented ceiling; a mermaid mosaic; a cow hide or two; antiques and art; contemporary cool; original period features; a huge private decked balcony or a cinema screen.

Recent awards include International Hotel Awards 5* in the category of Small Hotel for the UK.

SELF CATERING Stay in one of the stylish one bedroom Print room apartments, with kitchen facilities and spacious lounges. A great base to explore the beautiful Brecks countryside or follow the coastal road and enjoy the breathtaking North Norfolk coastline. Print room one is suitable for families and pets. Self catering guests can still take advantage of the hotel facilities perhaps breakfast in the café deli, Sunday lunch in the restaurant or afternoon tea in the hotel lounges.

RESTAURANT The award winning restaurant is open every evening from 6.30pm and Sunday for lunch from 12 – 2.30pm. Everything is made on site and the kitchen has a committed philosophy to use the plentiful and abundant seasonal produce on its own Norfolk doorstep including eggs from the hotels hens and fruit from the orchard. On the menu you might see slow cooked wild rabbit en croute, red cabbage and

current pickle, with mustard dressed rocket and cress or cocoa marinated seabass fillet, creamed leeks, boulangere potatoes and spiced port sauce or peanut butter ice cream, cinnamon and chocolate doughnuts with marshmallows and caramel.

Extensive wine list featuring some organic and bio-dynamic examples.

Large groups, children and parties welcome.

AFTERNOON TEA Traditional afternoon teas are served alfresco in summer or by the fire in winter changing with the season, a great way to celebrate birthdays, christenings, graduations, weddings or just catch up with friends. Pre booked only, available daily between 12 – 4.30pm from £15.50pp.

CAFÉ DELI COCOES Open Monday to Sunday offering fresh, wholesome, nourishing and delicious food using local producers and suppliers. Pop in for great coffee, triple alliance teas, organic wine, local beers, homemade cakes and cookies, all day breakfast or a

proper lunch, light bites and tasty take out. Take home freshly baked bread, organic and bio-dynamic wines, deli items, eggs, scrummy cakes, homemade chocolates, Norfolk cheeses and freshly prepared dishes from the menu.

LOCATION Swaffham is a thriving and bustling Norfolk market town located in the fascinating and historic Brecks; 370 square miles of forest, heath and farmland. Strattons sits in a quiet, concealed yet central private close in the town, an ideal base from which to explore the Brecks, Norwich, King’s Lynn and the coast – if, that is, you can tear yourself away from the hotel with its luxurious tranquility and delicious food. King’s Lynn and the coast – if, that is, you can tear yourself from the hotel with its luxurious tranquillity and delicious food.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WWW.STRATTONSHOTEL.COM

Time and Tide Museum Great Yarmouth Hop on the Poppy Line

This award winning museum space contains an imaginative collection housed in a recently renovated Victorian herring curing works. There is no better way to find out about the relationship with the sea so historically important to life in this county. Wander through a Victorian fisherman’s house, experience a bustling quayside at the peak of herring season and listen to nail-biting tales of wreck and rescue on the high seas. museums.norfolk.gov.uk

Enjoy a day out riding a historic steam train through Norfolk’s stunning coast.

Channel your inner beret-waving child from The Railway Children as the glorious locomotive passes through Sheringham, Weybourne and Holt. Kids and adults alike will enjoy watching the landscape of wooded hills in Sheringham Park roll past. The sea is within easy walking distance from the various stations at the northern end of the line. nnrailway.co.uk

5

BEST THINGS TO DO IN

Autumn & Winter

Alysham Auctions In our opinion you simply can’t beat an auction on a chilly day. This is a region renowned for its unique antiques where you’re bound to stumble upon that special find. Keys Fine Art Auctioneers are one of the longestestablished regional auctions of it’s kind in East Anglia, so we recommend you check auction days online ahead of your visit. Enthusiasts will also want to visit James Beck Auctions in Fakenham and Diss Auction. keysauctions.co.uk jamesbeckauctions.co.uk twgaze.co.uk

DISCOVER MORE A Yarmouth museum built from driftwood containing a fully working pottery and art studio greatyarmouthpoteries.co.uk Happisburgh Owl Barn is open during Autumn, visit the lighthouse while you are here happisburghowls.co.uk

Explore medieval graffiti

Blickling Hall

When visiting Norfolk’s churches keep an eye out for medieval doodles carved into the wall. Stained glass windows and elaborate tombs only tell us about the local elite, but these scribbles can give a fascinating insight to the ordinary people who lived and worshipped there. (The image of the tomb chest is covered with medieval and later graffiti) An exciting new study is recording these preReformation graffiti inscriptions, be a part of the project medieval-graffiti.co.uk

This impressive estate has been going from strength to strength in recent years. The 950 acres of woodland that make up its grounds have long been a place to go for picturesque walks, and the indoor activities are just as entertaining when it’s too cold to venture out. The Jacobean mansion houses beautiful 1930s decor, exhibits an array of local art and is also home to the largest collection of second hand books in the National Trust with over 30,000 titles nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate

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Davenports Magic Kingdom in North Walsham offers a touch of the mystical davenportsmagickingdom.co.uk Horsey Beach for close-up seal watching and a bracing walk discoverthebroads.com/day3.asp Exciting exhibitions as well as the classic Castle Keep at Norwich Castle. museums.norfolk.gov.uk Forage for forest berries, samphire and wild mushrooms. Check out the super fungi pages at www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk Tour the English Whisky distillery englishwhisky.co.uk

A RECIPE FOR

Winter

Eric Snaith at Titchwell Manor

Best End of Lamb, Lamb Crackling, pea, mint, hazelnut Serves 4 For the lamb

For the peas

1 8inch long piece of lamb loin with the flank attached 500g duck fat 100g rock salt

300g frozen peas 100g fresh popped peas 50g shallot finely sliced 500g vegetable stock lemon juice

Remove loin from the flank and trim any excess fat and sinew. Put in the fridge for cooking later. Trim the fat from the flank, but only where the loin was. Salt the flank and leave covered for 30 minutes. Wash off salt and pat dry.

Warm the duck fat gently in a deep roasting tin and submerge the flank in it, cook at 80 degrees / gas 1/2 / your oven’s lowest setting for 6 hours.

Remove from fat, place on a baking tray with another tray on top and some weight (the heavier the better) and chill until cold.

When cold trim up the flank into neat rectangles, generously season and slowly crisp up under the grill, turning occasionally.

Portion the loin into 4 pieces. Add a little oil to a pre-heated pan and on a medium heat colour on both sides.

Place in an oven at 180 degrees/gas mark 4 and cook for 4-5 minutes .

Allow to rest for 10 minutes and the meat will relax to medium rare. Season with salt before serving.

In a pan bring the vegetable stock to the boil. Meanwhile, soften the shallot with a little butter on a medium heat, add 1/2 the stock and all the frozen peas and bring back up to the boil.

Add contents of pan to a blender and blend until as smooth as possible adding more stock if required – you are trying to achieve a loose purée.

Pass through a fine mesh sieve and season with salt and lemon juice.

Blanch the fresh peas for 2 minutes and refresh in ice water, then add to purée.

For the hazelnut crumb 100g hazelnuts, roasted and roughly chopped 20g fresh peas dehydrated and chopped – optional 50g butter 50g ground almond 1g salt 60g flour

Combine butter, almond, salt and flour and rub together with you hands until it’s like a crumble mix. Bake in an oven at 160 degrees/gas mark 3 until golden brown, stirring and chopping every 3 minutes. When cooled add the hazelnuts and dried peas and check seasoning.

For the mint gel 100g shallots sliced 100g mint sauce 50g chardonnay vinegar 150g water 100g of fresh mint leaves 50g sugar agar agar Combine all ingredients and simmer for 1 hour. Purée until as smooth as possible and pass through a fine mesh sieve, then weigh and set with Agar – the ratio depends on the brand. Set mint in the fridge. When set, purée again until you have a smooth gel.

Season with salt and adjust acidity with a little more vinegar if required.

For Lamb sauce 1litre reduced lamb stock lamb trim, browned Reduce the stock with the browned trimmings to 250ml. Season with salt and a little lemon juice.

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Reepham A tranquil, tucked-away village with market town status.

HISTORY Reepham may feel like a village but it is very proud of its market-town status, granted in 1277. It is famous for being one of only two places in Europe to have three churches in one churchyard: St Mary’s, St Michael’s and All Saints, Hackford, now in ruins.

St Mary’s church was mainly built in the 14th century and contains a canopied tomb on the north wall of the sanctuary famous for its exquisite detail.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE You should take time to explore the town’s little lanes of Georgian

architecture – who could resist somewhere called Pudding Pie Alley?

– with independent shops and cafes.

V’s cafe is a quaint spot and Diane’s Pantry has plenty home-cooked treats.

Marriott’s Way is a 26-mile path that follows disused railway tracks, passing through Whitwell and Reepham railway station so you can enjoy walking or cycling through many picturesque villages on the way towards Norwich or Aylsham. The station also houses a small museum, a tearoom and has cycles to hire.

historic town. It is regarded as one of Norfolk’s premier coarse fisheries, having been established for many years on spring-fed lakes. The fishery is renowned for the size and quality of the crucian carp, and has four well-stocked lakes in total.

HOTSPOT The Crown Pub, NR10 4EJ Dial House, NR10 4JJ

If you are interested in fishing, the Reepham Fishery is just outside the

best of RECOMMENDS EXPERIENCE

SPOT

EXPLORE

The Georgian country home, Dial House, with dining, B&B and even houses for sale. The slow-cooked Sunday lunch on an Aga is not to be missed. thedialhouse.org.uk

The colourful traces of stunning medieval art at Little Witchingham St Faith Church, just three miles south of Reepham.

Foxley Woods, Norfolk’s largest remaining ancient woodland. In spring, the bluebells carpet the woodland floor.

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Manor House Farm A rural Bed and Breakfast with enchanting gardens

Tucked away in the heart of Norfolk, this beautiful country house has both bed & breakfast and self-catering options, and a garden that is not to be missed.

Once part of the Holkham estate, it’s perfectly located to explore the North Norfolk coast and surrounding areas.

Situated in a small hamlet outside of Fakenham, it’s a wonderful find that is a short drive away from many exciting attractions yet away from the hustle and bustle of busy towns.

THE BED & BREAKFAST Welcoming hosts Libby and Robin have lived on the farm for over 40 years, during which they have created the perfect retreat. The converted stable wing offers two large and airy bedrooms with bath, shower and comfy beds made up with air-dried cotton linen. Adjoining is a spacious sitting room with a wood-burning stove to help you unwind. The interior is furnished to the absolute comfort of guests and leaves no doubt as to why they keep coming back for more.

THE GARDEN

SELF-CATERING COTTAGE

The four acres of garden are an unforgettable highlight of the Manor House Farm experience. It is part of The National Garden Scheme and can be freely explored by visitors. You are welcome to relax, wander and enjoy the ornamental greenhouse, fragrant roses and herbaceous borders crammed with flowers. All this with the stunning backdrop of a thirteenth century church. The beautifully kept grounds even have space for guests to stable their horses by arrangement.

If you prefer self-catered options, Garden Cottage is a beautifully converted barn that sleeps two. It has a large bedroom with a fourposter bed, bath, shower, and a light and spacious sitting room. It is well equipped with a wood burner for chilly evenings and French doors to the terrace for summer al fresco eating and where you can take pleasure in watching the resident barn owls at dusk (hopefully with drink in hand!).

Everything is well thought through – you’ll find a starter pile of logs provided on arrival.

Breakfast is served in the dining room overlooking the lawn, made from plenty of home grown ingredients. Free range pork is served alongside fresh brown eggs from their own Welsummer hens and fruit from the garden.

Children over 10 years are welcome and wheelchair access is available. manor-house-farm.co.uk

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Beautiful landscaped Millennium Gardens Complete with pond to sit and relax by and the

Treetops Adventure Play Area.

Bluebell shopping Centre

Reeve’s Parlour Restaurant

Reeve’s Larder Food Hall

Visit our Bluebell square indoor shopping centre where we have stained glass, fashion, giftware, florist, hair saloon, dolls house miniatures, art studio and footwear.

Sample our delicious home cooked food cooked fresh to order using quality local produce.

Visit our food hall where we are proud to supply locally sourced produce, from wine, ales, cheese, chutneys, preserves, cakes, fresh meat and cooks frozen foods to name a few.

www.bawdeswellgardencentre.co.uk The Reeve’s

Larder

Millennium FOOD HALL Garden

Reeve’s Restaurant FREE WIFI

Sit and relax in our lovely restaurant surroundings with oak framed extension and why not treat yourself and a friend or family member to our afternoon tea for two. (Advanced booking required)

Tel. 01362 688 387 Treetops

Adventure PLAY AREA

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

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... where friends meet

THE At Carrick’s Guest House, Castle Farm our visitors experience luxurious 5-star accommodation in our family home on a busy working farm.

All rooms have been decorated and furnished to reflect the elegance of a bygone age whilst providing all modern facilities visitors expect.

The 550 acre farm includes 300 acres of low-lying water meadows which are grazed in the summer months by our rare breed herds of White Park and Lincoln Red cattle.

For the more energetic, the farm boasts five miles of permissive footpaths one of which forms part of the Wensum Way which connects the Nar Valley Way to Marriot’s Way, enabling walkers to walk from King’s Lynn to Yarmouth mostly on permissive and County footpaths.

The walk along the banks of the River Wensum, which forms the farm’s northern boundary is spectacular at any time of the year when a wide variety of deer, waterfowl and songbirds may be seen.

The wide, impounded stretches of the river are also ideal for canoeists, anglers and artists.

Carrick ESTATE Over the years we have undertaken a number of diversification projects, converting traditional farm buildings which are no longer suitable for modern agriculture to alternative uses.

This includes the provision of a village store, post office, butchers shop and delicatessen.

Park Farm Campsite. Hidden away in lush meadows surrounding Park Farm, our campsite offers a safe and peaceful base from which to explore our wonderful county of Norfolk.

So whether you are just looking for a quiet place to ‘chill out’ or you seek more strenuous activity, you will find it all here at Castle Farm.

Carrick’s at Castle Farm Castle Farm, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4JT. 01362 368302 enquiries@carricksatcastlefarm.co.uk carricksatcastlefarm.co.uk

“We stayed in the newly converted barn which is a huge studio apartment with kitchen, wood burning stove, huge bed, luxury bathroom and loads of privacy. There are loads of little touches which make this a 5 star place to stay.”

MoInBrighton TripAdvisor 28/12/2015

Carrick’s at Castle Farm Castle Farm, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4JT. Tel: 01362 368302 www.carricksatcastlefarm.co.uk

SIX BEST

Epicurean Delights

Baron Bigod A creamy white cheese made in the Waveney Valley, this cheese is handmade on a fenland farm by farmer Jonny, using milk from his own Montbeliarde herd. The UK’s only traditional raw milk Brie-de-Meaux style cheese, it’s made in the morning, when the milk is at the perfect temperature. fenfarmdairy.co.uk

Brays Cottage Pork Pies Found across the county, Brays Cottage Pork Pies use only the best pork from outdoor reared North Norfolk pigs. Using prime cuts of pork, they add quality cured bacon to give the pies their distinct smoky note.

Look out for the onion marmalade and the traditional pie flavours. perfectpie.co.uk

Marsh Samphire

Stiffkey Cockles

Marsh samphire, otherwise known as “sea asparagus” abounds in the tidal creeks and salt marshes along the North Norfolk coast. Despite being found in other parts of the UK, Samphire is a piece of living history here in Norfolk. Locals still go out and pick samphire for their supper, steaming it and eating it hot with butter, or cold doused in balsamic vinegar.

These delicious cockles are traditionally eaten at the seaside doused in malt vinegar, but are also delectable steamed in soups and seafood platters. Also known as Stewkey Blues on account of their colour, a pale lavender to dark greyblue, they’re still harvested here in Norfolk with broad rakes and nets.

Find them on restaurant menus on the North Norfolk coast between Wellsnext-the-Sea and Blakeney.

Norfolk’s own cook book, Everything Stops For Tea Raise money for Marie Curie with local food writer Mary Kemp, Marie Curie patron Melinda Raker, and hotelier Vanessa Scott. Showcasing a mouthwatering selection of 80 recipes from foodie figures such as Galton Blackiston and Chris Coubrough, every penny raised from this book will fund Marie Curie’s nursing care and support.

Available in bookshops, Strattons Hotel and The Crown Inn at Wellsnext-the-Sea.

DISCOVER MORE A local winter classic, Norfolk Black Free Range Turkey from W.R.Garner & Son godwick.co.uk Jo C’s CAMRA Gold awardwinning Norfolk Kiwi Ale is not to be missed jocsnorfolkale.co.uk Candi’s Norfolk Crier Onion Marmalade won two stars at Great Taste 2014 candischutney.vpweb.co.uk

Norfolk Gin Producer Jonathan Redding makes small batches of 22 stone jars, before filling and sealing them by hand.

Launched in summer 2015, you’ll love its herbal, piney depth, and mellow citrus and floral notes. Available at The Orange Tree, Thornham and other hostelries. norfolkgin.co.uk

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Don’t leave the county until you’ve tried the sweet chalk-fed Cromer Crab - available all over the county and for a truly Norfolk experience try Cookies Crab Shop in Salthouse.

Norfolk Cordial, hand made luxury cordial made from natural ingredients, an adult drink with a clean sharp taste. norfolkcordial.com

Be Part of It!

Celebrating the best of Norfolk’s food & drink throughout the year!

With hundreds of events across the county there is something for everyone at Norfolk Food & Drink!

norfolkfoodanddrink.com 01603 881 939

Norfolk Food & Drink Festival

@FoodFestNorfolk #NFAD15

the best of NORFOLK FOOD Norfolk is the county of big skies, dry summers and no motorways.

Naturalists, artists, twitchers and the like all flock here, particularly to the coast.

It is a laid-back style of life but, once you are here, it’s like a wonderful drug that gets you – unlike in my time cooking in the Lake District (10 years to be precise) where my overriding memory is of slate-grey houses and kagools. Here in Norfolk it is brick and flint houses, blue skies and samphire (pronounced samphur, please).

Having been born in Hainford, our family holidays were always to Blakeney, where we would rent a little cottage called the Watch House for two weeks. The only way of getting to the house was by boat or, at low tide, walking across the mud flats. Those holidays were when my first culinary experience began. I would spend days shrimping and cockling and, if the terns were diving, trying for mackerel with feathers – blissful, wonderful memories.

Norfolk hasn’t changed much in my lifetime and that is why it is so special.

The main difference, however, is that Norfolk is now well and truly on the culinary map, full of wonderful pubs, restaurants, chip shops and hotels.

They are all here to be embraced and the chances are the sun will shine.

I suppose after 22 years of running Morston Hall –16 years of which holding one Michelin star – I reckon I am fairly well-qualified in what makes a sustainable business. To put no finer point on it, all of us in this industry work extremely hard. There is no easy way and it is all down to hard graft, team effort and great staff. In any business you are only as good as your staff and at Morston we have some extraordinary, loyal and talented team players, essential in going that extra mile when required.

Tracy and I have always worked together (well, one in the kitchen the other looking after almost all other aspects of the hotel) and husbandand- wife teams have that unique manner where teamwork prevails.

The only trouble with running a hotel is every year our wonderful bedrooms need generally refreshing and upgrading. It is a constant process of

revamping – for example, television sets have become even more high tech, so they have to be sourced along with the latest Nespresso coffee machines, painting and new carpets. Everything needs looking at continually.

What a privilege it is to be asked to say a few words about my beloved Norfolk. Like many born here, I went away as a teenager only to return married and to begin a business that really has exceeded all expectations in perhaps the most beautiful part of the county.

All of us who run businesses in Norfolk – I will even extend that to East Anglia – are so lucky. Often labelled as a bit of a culinary backwater in years gone by, Norfolk has become a bolthole escape route for many from the Midlands, London and farther afield.

It is no surprise considering what a natural larder we have, which dovetails beautifully through the seasons and allows us chefs to produce menus that not only reflect the seasons but also have real provenance. At Morston Hall and at No.1 Cromer the chefs have it engrained in their minds that whichever month it is, the menu will reflect whatever is in season – a simple but lovely ethos.

Galton Blackiston

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the best of EATING OUT The Hoste Burnham Market

The Orange Tree Thornham

Acclaimed hotel, restaurant and bar The Hoste is located in one of Norfolk’s most picturesque villages, Burnham Market.

Visitors are welcome for traditional Norfolk breakfast, lunch, tea or dinner, served in the historic restaurant, traditional bar, bright conservatory or Garden room.

The Orange Tree Norfolk - Dining Pub of the Year, The Good Pub Guide 2013, 2014 and again for 2015.

In 2015 The Hoste was listed in The Times Top 25 foodie destinations in the UK. Under the guidance of Head Chef, James O’Connor the menu is changed according to seasonal availability. Classic dishes such as Seared Norfolk Venison followed by mouth-watering specialties such as Dark Chocolate Fondant and local Sharrington strawberries are particularly popular.

The Hoste has evolved from its 16th century roots into a stylish country hotel. Recently extended but retaining all its historical charm, the relaxed conviviality in the bar with its roaring log fire in the winter is hard to beat.

The ‘Remember Nelson’ exhibition is open daily in the Hoste’s garden lodge. Free of charge, it charts Nelson’s connection with Norfolk and the relationship with his protégé, Captain Sir William Hoste.

Guests can choose to stay in The Hoste, Vine House Georgian boutique hotel, Railway House featuring a converted railway carriage or one of three luxury holiday cottages. The Hoste Beauty Spa is open to all visitors until 7pm seven days a week.

The Orange Tree is a stylish, contemporary dining pub, nestled in one of North Norfolk’s most beautiful coastal villages. We are a family owned business and strive hard, day and night, to serve award-winning food, from top quality local produce in a laid back, ‘unstuffy’ environment. The OT offers a haven of tranquillity where couples, families and friends are welcomed with open arms.

Using local produce, Philip Milner, Executive Chef, creates outstanding, mouth-watering dishes, such as ‘Wild Seabass with Norfolk Razor Clams’, for which Philip was awarded ‘Great British Seafood Pub Chef of the Year’. The restaurant menu is original and unique, leaving customers spoilt for choice. If simpler fare is what you are after then you will find it on the bar menu - with curries, Norfolk Red Poll burgers and even a national award-winning chicken pie. Not to be missed is the signature ‘Fairground’ dessert; this has to be seen to be believed!

We have six ensuite bedrooms, making us the perfect spot to relax and enjoy our stunning beaches by day and our awardwinning food and wine by night.

hoste the

HISTORIC HOTEL, BAR AND RESTAURANTS IN THE CENTRE OF BURNHAM MARKET AT THE HEART OF THE NORTH NORFOLK COAST Tel: 01328 738777 • reception@thehoste.com www.thehoste.com

The Orange Tree High Street, Thornham, Norfolk PE36 6LY

01485 512213

email@theorangetreethornham.co.uk www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk

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the best of EATING OUT Briarfields Titchwell

Titchwell Manor Hotel near Brancaster

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

Titchwell Manor, a coastal boutique hotel near Brancaster, is renowned for its superb three AA Rosette cuisine.

Named Best Restaurant and Pub Dining at the Eastern Daily Press Norfolk Food and Drink Awards 2013, the hotel offers a smart retreat for those seeking fine dining in stylish surroundings, complete with stunning sea views.

Main dishes include 10oz, 21-day aged sirloin steak and chips, roast mushroom, tomato, dressed salad and homemade mustard, Sous-vide pork belly, prawn, chilli and dashi broth, new potato and coriander beignet, spring onions with crispy black cabbage. Dishes use meat from local suppliers and it is here that Briarfields excels – the hotel’s owners favour fellow local suppliers and the quality shines through.

Dessert lovers will be enchanted by plum tart tatin, laced with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb, Baileys bread and butter pudding and white chocolate cheesecake.

Briarfields is truly a Norfolk delight.

Head Chef Eric Snaith’s renowned innovative style focuses on modern European cuisine taking advantage of the fantastic local fish and seafood as well as fine game and meat from nearby estates.

Guests can choose to dine in either the elegant, candlelit Conservatory overlooking the garden, or in the striking and informal Eating Rooms, complete with sea view terrace and bar. An à la carte menu is on offer for lunch and dinner, while a four or eight-course Conversation Menu with optional matched wines is also available every evening.

The latter showcases Eric’s signature experimental style and exquisite presentation.

Sunday lunch is served between 12pm and 5pm, while the hotel’s famous Afternoon Tea is served in The Eating Rooms and lounge from 12 noon until 5pm daily.

Dine or Stay at Titchwell Manor Hotel & Restaurants

Open every day for lunch and dinner with a choice of two restaurants offering outstanding cuisine by award-winning Head Chef Eric Snaith.

Lunch: 12 noon – 5pm Dinner: 6.30 – 9.30pm Sunday lunch: 12 noon – 5pm Afternoon tea: 12 noon – 5pm

hotel | restaurant | bar | venue Main Road, Titchwell, Norfolk PE31 8BB

t: 01485 210742 e: info@briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk

www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk

112 the best of NORFOLK

Titchwell Manor Hotel & Restaurants Titchwell, Near Brancaster, Norfolk, PE31 8BB Telephone: 01485 210221 Email: info@titchwellmanor.com www.titchwellmanor.com

the best of EATING OUT The Ingham Swan Ingham

Congham Hall Kings Lynn

The Ingham Swan is a 14th Century thatched former Coaching Inn, now an award-winning Restaurant with Rooms offering fine dining in relaxed surroundings in North Norfolk, close to the Broads and the stunning coastline. Run by Chef Patron Daniel Smith, winner of the EDP Norfolk Food & Drink Awards 2014 Chef of the Year, we have held a Michelin Bib Gourmand for 5 years running and were voted Readers’ Restaurant of the Year 2015 for the East of England in the Waitrose Good Food Guide Awards.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing place to stay, a family lunch in pleasant surroundings or somewhere to celebrate in style, then look no further!

The Ingham Swan is about serving good, honest reasonably priced food with a menu dedicated to seasonality in a relaxed setting with personal service, using the freshest ingredients available and embracing the seasons. We offer a range of menus including Du Jour, À La Carte as well as our popular Tasting Menu.

For a destination dining experience, stay in one of four bespoke luxury Bed & Breakfast rooms in the converted Stable House, contemporary and comfortable with those extra special little touches that guests have come to expect and The Ingham Swan breakfast with fresh bread baked daily, our very own muesli and Dingley Dell sausages and bacon.

Congham Hall, set in 30 acres of beautiful parkland on the edge of the Sandringham Estate, and has been welcoming guests for over 30 years.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day and offers a varied choice of dishes using fresh local produce, as well as vegetables and herbs from our own garden and a choice of excellent cellar wines. On sunny days, there is nothing better than lunch on the terrace followed by a walk around the grounds and herb garden.

Rooms are from £135 including breakfast (dog friendly and family rooms available).

Congham Hall boasts of 3 AA red stars and 2 AA rosettes for the restaurant.

01485 600250

Experience a delicious new menu at Congham Hall...

Nestled in a unique, quintessentially English setting, enjoy lunch or dinner in the relaxed environment of the restaurant or ‘al fresco’ on the terrace.

The two AA Rosette restaurant serves a variety of light snacks and a delicious choice of dishes complimented by locally sourced produce and herbs and vegetables from our own garden and orchard.

congham_hall

Congham Hall Spa Hotel

Congham Hall, Grimston, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE32 1AH E info@conghamhallhotel.co.uk

www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk

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the best of EATING OUT The Crown Hotel Wells-next-the-sea

The Ship Hotel Brancaster

The Crown Hotel in Wells-next-the-Sea was the first acquisition for Flying Kiwi Inns proprietor Chris Coubrough and it has a special place in his heart.

The Ship Hotel is located just a few miles west along the North Norfolk coast in the fishing village of Brancaster.

Lovingly and respectfully restored to its former glory, it has at its hub a warm and inviting bar area with a roaring wood-burner to relax in front of on the coldest of days. The Ship’s restaurant caters for up to 100 diners and in summer its attractive garden provides an idyllic setting for alfresco eating.

New Zealander Chris and his kitchen team insist on sourcing only the freshest natural ingredients from local farmers, fishermen and traders.

Diners have a choice of the intimate front restaurant, or the gun room, at the rear of the hotel, or one of two cosy lounges adjoining the bar. Breakfast, lunch and dinner available 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Vegetarian and gluten-free menus are available on request.

The Crown’s superb wine list was drawn up by Chris with the expert assistance of Jamie Aram, named Wine Importer of the Year 2011 at the International Wine and Spirit Competition.

For those who wish to indulge themselves, afternoon tea is served from 3 until 5pm daily.

wells-next-the-sea

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Breakfast, lunch and dinner available 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Both hotels boast hand-drawn beers created by Chris’s wife Jo, whose three Jo C’s Norfolk Ales – Norfolk Kiwi, Bitter Old Bustard and Knot Just Another IPA – are brewed just a few miles away using local spring water and locally-grown Maris Otter barley, regarded by some to be the finest in the world.

north norfolk

brancaster

the best of EATING OUT The Dabbling Duck Great Massingham

The Gunton Arms Thorpe Market

This lovely nine bedroom pub situated in the extremely pretty village of Great Massingham is an ideal choice for a short break in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside from where Sandringham and Houghton Hall are just a short drive away. The fine pub food and CAMRA recommended bar sit extremely well together in the cosiest of surroundings

A traditional pub with eight bedrooms in an extensive historic park in North Norfolk.

Locally-owned, friendly and informal, The Dabbling Duck has gone from strength to strength since the arrival of Mark Dobby in 2013.

In the last year three high-spec bedrooms have been built in the picturesque garden. All the rooms are en-suite equipped with either bath or power shower, flat screen TV with wi-fi available.

The Dabbling Duck is open all day seven days a week for Breakfast 8.00am-10am, Lunch 12noon-2.30pm (mon-sat), Dinner 6.30-9.00pm (mon-thurs) 6.00pm-9.30pm (fri & sat) and Sunday lunch service 12noon -8pm.

THE DABBLING DUCK 11 Abbey Rd, Great Massingham, Norfolk PE32 2HN

Chef Stuart Tattersall (ex head chef at Mark Hix) cooks from local ingredients including venison from the surrounding deer park. Art dealer Ivor Braka bought the Gunton Arms in 2009 and started a major restoration. Robert Kime helped design the bedrooms and interior, Martin Brudnizki the bar and restaurant. Stuart Tattersall and Simone Baker (manager and front of house) both formerly worked at Mark Hix’s restaurants in London. They bring with them the Hix ethos of using local, seasonal produce and a style of cooking which is vigorous and ingredient led. The Gunton Arms has its own venison; seafood, mussels and Cromer crab are caught by local fishermen.

“I wanted it to be popular with everyone,” says Braka, a well-known art dealer, “postmen, woodmen, landed gentry, Londoners, foreigners.

I strove for a building that made people want to be there – cosy and warm, with convincing historic character without being a stage set”.

The Gunton Arms

“It is just a pub. With a Saatchi’s worth of art… I want to go back to the Gunton Arms.

I want to go back soon.”

01485 520827

Jay Rayner info@thedabblingduck.co.uk

Cromer Road, Thorpe Market, Norwich NR11 8TZ 01263 832010

www.thedabblingduck.co.uk

theguntonarms.co.uk

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the best of EATING OUT Strattons Swaffham

Beechwood Hotel North Walsham

Strattons is an award winning boutique hotel, restaurant and cafe deli offering cool contemporary style with originality and strong environmental ethics. The hotel has 12 bedrooms, 2 self catering apartments, a 40 cover restaurant and an onsite café deli ‘CoCoes’.

The Beechwood Hotel is a great place to eat, it is run by people who are passionate about food, and the restaurant is the hub of the operation.

Restaurant The chic restaurant is open daily from 6.30pm and every Sunday Lunch 12-2.30pm. On the menu you might see slow cooked wild rabbit en croute, red cabbage and current pickle, with mustard dressed rocket or cocoa marinated seabass fillet, creamed leeks, boulangere potatoes and spiced port sauce.

Afternoon tea Strattons is the perfect venue for traditional afternoon tea by the fire in winter or alfresco in summer, available pre-booked daily.

Café deli Café deli ‘CoCoes’ is open Monday to Saturday, offering great coffee, triple alliance teas, organic wine, local beers, homemade cakes and cookies, all day breakfast or a proper lunch, light bites and tasty take out.

Our Head Chef Steven Norgate is one of the leading chefs in East Anglia, and the AA has awarded his cooking two Restaurant Rosettes. His menus are local, supplier driven and reflective of the season. We try where possible to source local ingredients and are proud to support local suppliers. Cromer Crab, Moreston Mussels, Thornham Oysters, Sherigham Lobster and local meat and vegetables are all served when in season.

To complement the cuisine there is an extensive wine list, featuring a large selection of the world’s finest wines. First growths feature alongside fine burgundy, and there is an emphasis on wines from South Africa, Hugh’s native land.

After you have eaten why not stay? The Beechwood has 18 delightful bedrooms; Vi-Springs beds, large Georgian windows, squashy duvets, mounds of pillows, Molton Brown toiletries and fluffy bathrobes are features of all our rooms. In the morning, after a good night’s sleep, why not tuck into Eggs Benedict or Poached Haddock?

Eating out ads_Layout 1 13/11/2013 16:56 Page 1

Beechwood Hotel

strattons hotel with self catering, restaurant and café deli

boutique luxurious classic contemporary heart of norfolk award winning restaurant afternoon tea cocoes café deli self catering Luxury without sacrifice to the environment ash close swaffham norfolk pe37 7nh 01760 723845 enquiries@strattonshotel.com www.strattonshotel.com

20 Cromer Rd, North Walsham NR28 0HD 01692 403231 www.beechwood-hotel.co.uk

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the best of EATING OUT Morston Hall Morston

Benedicts Norwich

Celebrating twenty-four years, Morston Hall is an intimate country house hotel with its origin in the seventeenth century.

It is located two miles from Blakeney on the spectacular North Norfolk coast and provides an ideal place for guests to relax and recharge themselves.

Benedicts is a small modern neighbourhood restaurant with classic values, run by husband and wife team Richard & Katja Bainbridge, a true family business in the heart of Norwich. Richard who heads up the kitchen, after being Head Chef for the last seven years at the Michelin starred Morston Hall, wanted to go back to his roots as a Norwich boy and showcase the best of what this fine county has to offer, which he does with a forever seasonal changing menu in a relaxed environment.

They are in the top 10 of the UK’s Gourmet Hotels as well as holding a Michelin Star, rated 3 AA rosettes and 4 AA red stars.

The resturant is open each evening for dinner and Sunday’s for lunch, offering a daily changing menu usign the finest of what Norfolk produce has to offer.

Without doubt one of Norfolk’s favourite places to dine and stay.

A la carte 2 Courses £29, 3 Courses £36, Tasting Menu £52 Set Lunch 2 Courses £16 3 Courses £20 info@restaurantbenedicts.com twitter @restbenedicts @chefbainbridge Instagram @restbenedicts facebook/restbenedicts opening hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 12:00 - 14:30, 18:30 - 22:30

Eating out ads_Layout 1 13/11/2013 16:56 Page 1

Beechwood Hotel

Dine or stay at Norfolk’s finest Open each evening Dinner 7.30 for 8.00pm Sunday Lunch 12.30 for 1.00pm Afternoon tea in the sun room or next to the open fire Spacious, individually styled suites and bedrooms Morston Hall, Morston, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7AA Tel: 01263 741041 www.morstonhall.com www.galtonblackiston.com

20 Cromer Rd, North Walsham NR28 0HD 01692 403231 www.beechwood-hotel.co.uk

9 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR24PE 01603 926080 restaurantbenedicts.com

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Back to the Garden - One of Norfolk’s most stunning events venues When choosing a location for your event, few places can tick as many boxes as Back to the Garden, just outside the Georgian market town of Holt.

With an award-winning reputation for great food yet a welcoming local feel, it’s a venue where the staff put your celebrations first. It is renowned for holding impeccable events, from show-stopping Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties to unforgettable weddings.

The talented and experienced team of chefs works with a dedicated restaurant team and the multi-award winning on-site farm shop to create memorable dining experiences.

Whether you order a simple finger buffet or a formal four course meal you can expect true quality.

Back to the Garden is available for private hire and they offer a range of services to ensure that everything goes to plan on the day. No matter what you’re celebrating, the comfortable venue and sumptuous grounds are sure to form the perfect backdrop for the occasion.

Back to the Garden’s fully licensed bar is complemented by an extensive wine list created by Berry Bros. & Rudd - one of the country’s oldest wine merchants, they have been suppliers to the royal family since the reign of King George III. Their selection is sure to add an extra touch of class to an already outstanding celebration.

On site you’ll find a beautifully restored Eighteenth century threshing barn, with vaulted ceilings that create stunning personal space for you and your guests. All this is set within a secluded green space that feels like a secret garden.

When it comes to food, General Manager Chris Allen ensures that their ingredients meet the highest standards in terms of both quality and provenance. Where it’s not raised or grown organically on their own farm, it is locally sourced.

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There is no hire fee for the barn, meaning that the comfortable and stylish setting can be yours for no extra charge beyond the cost of the catering and food itself. Back to the Garden also has its own stone-baked pizza oven and plenty of room for a marquee, so you have lots of creative space to plan your event. There is indoor space for around 100 guests and for a further 200 outdoors, so there’s ample room for parties of all sizes, and plenty of parking available too.

If it’s just the gastronomy you’re after, the eager Back to the Garden team are equally happy to bring their delicious food and wine to you as part of their outside catering service which is increasingly popular with those in the know.

So, whether it’s the festive season or you’ve got something special to celebrate, Back to the Garden is the ideal place to relax and enjoy!

café • butcher • farm shop available for private hire / weddings

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

Algy’s Farm Shop

Farm to Fork & Fish

Humbleyard Vineyard

The home of Bintree Bird Seeds and Algy’s Norfolk Popcorn. Come and visit our new farm shop at Bintree.

We now stock a large range of locally grown and produced fine foods; from milk to meat; pies to pickles; chicken to cheese; fish to fruit we have it all!

Our friendly staff are proud to showcase some of the finest fresh, seasonal and local produce available in the area, meat from our farm and seafood from our friends along the region’s coastline.

Humbleyard Vineyard, Mulbarton, Norwich, was established in 2010 with nine grape varieties, selected for their compatibility with the Norfolk climate and the desire to make the wines we like – crisp whites, delicate rosés and classic, traditionally made sparkling.

Opening times:

The team are always on hand to advise on your weekly shopping needs or, if you’re looking for something special, try our deli section for some sweet treats and speciality hampers – ideal for days out, anniversaries and Christmas.

Mon-Sat 8am-6pm Sunday 10am-4pm

We look forward to welcoming you into our exciting deli soon.

A1067, Bintree, NR20 5NE

Opening times:

01362 683893 or 07775 517473

Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm Saturday 8.30am-4pm Sunday 10am-3pm

We grow our own asparagus, sweetcorn, pumpkins, squashes as well as our famous popcorn and bird seeds.

Why not ‘pop in’ for a really local shopping experience!

info@algysfarmshop.co.uk algysfarmshop.co.uk

The exciting range of award-winning wines and our new High Spirit No.1, triple distilled rosé, are for sale in the shop or online.

Come and enjoy a self-guided tour around the vineyard and our seasonal PYO. Opening Times Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 2pm Paddock Farm Shop, Paddock Farm, Mulbarton, Norwich NR14 8JT

Norwich Road, Horstead, NR12 7EE

01508 571000

01603 266129

info@humbleyardenglishwine.co.uk

farmtoforkandfish.co.uk

humbleyardenglishwine.co.uk

PICNICS CHEESES

Home to the best Sausage Rolls in East Anglia

Certificate of Excellence Winner 2015

Tel: 01263 740939 www.blakeneydeli.co.uk

@BlakeneyDeli BlakeneyDeli

SALAMIS

Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am – 5.30pm Sunday 8.30am – 2.30pm 30 High Street – just up from BlakeneyDelicatessen the quay passed the White Horse

Fine food & wine

HAMS AND

BLAKENEY DELICATESSEN

•

• B R E A D • G R E AT W I N E S F RO M A RO U N D T H E WO R L D • O I L S •

• PAT E S • O L I V E S • G I F T H A M P E R S • D E L I C I O U S R E A DY M E A L S •

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ANCHOR’S AWAY! You’ll be hard-pressed to find somewhere more securely held in the hearts of its loyal customers than the Anchor Inn in Morston.

For many, it’s the sheer, unpretentious brilliance of mouth-watering menus, using produce sourced as locally as a few feet away. To others, it’s the warm, welcoming atmosphere, blended with perfectly-stored local ales and well-priced wines, served by friendly, enthusiastic staff. Such is its popularity, the Anchor, has won the following awards: Aylsham Food Show – best use of local produce; eighth in The Times top 25 country pubs: runner-up in EDP Pub of the Year 2014: BBC Coast Magazine top ten coastal pubs; EDP readers’ restaurant.

It is the vision of former school friends, Harry Farrow and Rowan ‘Ro’ Glennie, whose reputation as Norfolk’s youngest publicans does not detract from their years working at the top of their game in London and at home in Norfolk. They now bring their experience to this unforgettable table. It was their dream to own a pub in their childhood home of North Norfolk – renowned for seafood, game and ales – where they could share their passion for locally-sourced, good quality, yet affordable, food.

In June 2011 they took over The Anchor, with its rich history of smuggling, in pretty Morston, just along the coast from Blakeney.

Following a tasteful refurbishment, they have built a thriving business with a loyal clientele. The ethos is simple – to serve classic dishes, delivered with a passion and an eye for detail, meaning each one is lovingly prepared, like a mini culinary work of art.

They love nothing more than discovering what their customers like.

With Harry at the helm of innovation in the kitchen and Ro gathering opinions and serving up front-of-house, they form a great partnership, anchored in a shared love of food.

They pride themselves on the quality of produce including, this year, mussels from Wells, fabulous local fruit and vegetables, rare-breed meats and ales from Winters, Woodfordes and Adnams. Wines are supplied by local merchants and sourced from smaller, often underrated, vineyards – to complement whatever Harry is sending from the kitchen.

The Anchor Inn The Street Morston Norfolk NR25 7AA

A new head chef – Jamie Murch – has recently been recruited to work alongside Harry. He has worked in Michelin-star restaurants and been head chef at a respectable local gastropub.

The menu changes daily as does the popular Curry Thursdays – curry and a drink for a tenner. Food is served in a relaxed atmosphere and customers can choose between the ambience of the more traditional restaurant or the dog-friendly bar with open fire in winter. In summer, visitors can enjoy the refurbished beer garden.

Private functions are catered for, as are large groups (with booking).

This year has been the Anchor’s best year yet – getting busier and busier – but they are particularly excited about what’s to come: using the experience of the past few years to provide exactly what people want. @morstonanchor morstonanchor.co.uk

| 01263 741392 | www.morstonanchor.co.uk

NORWICH

Norwich’s fascinating history can be seen everywhere, from its Norman castle to its medieval cobbled streets. Growing from the Saxon settlements established along the Wensum River, it was second only to London as a trading post.

These days, trading of a different type occurs, as it’s a top UK shopping destination, with plenty of historical sights to see. Choose a guided tour, or explore the lanes and arcades yourself. Norwich was once the largest walled town in England, and fragments of the original city wall can still be seen.

NORWICH CATHEDRAL A truly inspiring place, Norwich Cathedral was a Benedictine monastery for the first 450 years of its life and even the most stoic atheist can’t fail to be moved by its majestic presence.

#CISCOE’S PAN ASIAN & SUSHI

The Cathedral welcomes visitors for worship, art exhibitions and concerts; the calm oasis of Cathedral Close and the startlingly contemporary Refectory makes a visit well worthwhile.

NR1 4DH cathedral.org

CISCO’S Don’t let the unprepossessing exterior of this superb pan-Asian and Sushi restaurant put you off, located just by the entrance to John Lewis carpark it’s the last place you’d expect to find world class sushi. Cisco’s is named after owner Francisco Papica, who scored highly in 2015’s Global Sushi Challenge.

Generous portions of food from Japan, Korea, Vietnam and the Asian world keep customers coming back for more.

Our top tip - order the Sushi Fanatic, you won’t be disappointed!

NR1 3EU ciscoes.com

#AFTERNOON TEA

BRIDEWELL MUSEUM BRITANNIA CAFE Situated at the former Britannia Barracks at Mousehold Heath, the Britannia Café offers spectacular views over Norwich, and free parking.

Frequently in TripAdvisor’s top 10 places to eat in Norwich, all staff are category D low risk prisoners, learning new skills to give them a fresh start.

This socially responsible café donates all profit to charity.

Norwich’s history, from medieval to modern day, is on view at Bridewell Museum.

This is the perfect place to learn about the people and industries of Norwich’s past.

Fully accessible with lifts, the ten galleries teach visitors about the wealthy city’s early textile trade, how chocolate and mustard brought work to Norwich, and life during the war.

NR2 1AQ museums.norfolk.gov.uk

NR1 4LU cafebritannia.co.uk

WINBIRRI VINEYARD JOHN JARROLD MUSEUM We love print media above all other types and this museum is one of the finest in the country dedicated to printing. Featuring examples of Gutenberg’s 15th century moveable type, the labour intensive presses, and the highly skilled processes needed to bring the written word to life. One for the kids to get to grips with the origins of mass communication.

A vineyard on the outskirts of Norwich I hear you say? Yes and one producing award-winning white, red and sparkling wines from 40,000 vines.

Try a tasting experience day, led by a Head Winemaker, Lee Dyer where you’ll see the vines and their maintenance in action, learn about the production processes, and of course, sample the wines, along with some local cheeses and meats.

NR3 1SH

NR14 7DE

johnjarroldprintingmuseum.org.uk

winbirri.com

Droplet Norwich Pay with the fee-free Droplet mobile phone app, and collect rewards.

30 retailers across Norwich welcome this cashless payment.

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The Norwich Lanes and Cathedral Quarter Possibly the most picturesque part of Norwich, this is where ancient history meets cosmopolitan sophistication.

Dominated by the Cathedral at its heart, explore the independent shops, cafes and galleries as you head towards Norwich Lanes.

Home to Norwich University of the Arts, you won’t be able to miss the youthful creativity and culture that the Cathedral Quarter offers.

If you’re looking for history, unique shops, and friendly local service, this is one part of Norwich you can’t miss. #STRANGERSCOFFEEHOUSE

STRANGERS

The Book Hive is Norwich’s only independent bookshop. Stocking hand picked, unusual books and far removed from the musty independent bookshops of yesteryear, this is a smart bookshop for the 21st Century. Well worth a browse.

The coffee enthusiasts’ favourite, Strangers’ now roast their own beans.

Available coffees change throughout the year depending on crop cycles so there’s always something new to try.

NR2 1HL

NR2 1DS

bookhive.co.uk

strangerscoffee.com

BOOK HIVE

THE LIBRARY RESTAURANT This listed building was once home to the UK’s first public subscription library. Serving a fantastic selection of food, cocktails and wine, the Library is established Norwich restaurateurs’ Nigel and Jayne Raffles’ biggest project to date.

Boasting a large lounge, bar, art gallery and brasserie, there is an outside courtyard, perfect for alfresco dining, where food is cooked on an imported, wood fired Aztec grill.

A perfect venue, where the philosophy is fresh, simple food created from local seasonal produce.

NR2 1JH thelibraryrestaurant.co.uk

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BENEDICTS Opening last year to much acclaim, Benedicts restaurant is seen by many as offering the best tasting menu in the city. Named as No. 3 in The Times 25 Best New Restaurants in the Country, Chef Richard Bainbridge, winner of the 2015 Great British Menu, runs cookery demonstrations (with lunch) throughout the year so you can learn to recreate the Benedicts experience at home.

NR2 4PE restaurantbenedicts.com

#GROSVENORFISHBAR

Just being here can tease out that missing line. #mycathedral

F’SH AT THE GROSVENOR Serving up the best fish and chips in the city for over 90 years. Be prepared to wince at the puns on the menu and queue at peak times. Fancy a pint with your fish and chips? No problem - they deliver to the Birdcage opposite.

NR2 1EL facebook.com/GrosvenorFishBar

PHILIP BROWNE MENSWEAR

Mide, Spoken Word Artist, Student at UEA.

A visit to Philip Browne sees seemingly clashing tastes fuse into wry, quirky combinations that continue to win the hearts of Norwich’s fashion aficionados. Genuinely one of a kind, stocking ranges and capsule collections from brands across the globe - pop upstairs and get inked at Rag and Bone Tattoo studio.

NR2 1JH philipbrownemenswear.co.uk

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NORWICH events 2016 FEBRUARY The Viking's Guide to Deadly Dragons Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery February - 30 May UEA Spring Literary Festival University of East Anglia February – March The University of East Anglia's (UEA) - first literary festival took place in 1991 uea.ac.uk/litfest Norwich Fashion Week 10 - 17 March SHAKESPEARE at 400 mini festival March and April celebrating 400 years of the great Bard The Maddermarket Theatre, St John's Alley www.maddermarket.co.uk Fiji: Art and Life in the Pacific 12 March – 7 August Sainsbury Centre, University of East Anglia scva.ac.uk Holkham Hall’s Exhibition 20 March - 31 October From Homestead to Holkham: Remembering the 7th Earl of Leicester 1936–2015 holkham.co.uk MAY The Broads Outdoor Festival Various locations May outdoorsfestival.co.uk Norfolk & Norwich Festival Various locations 13 – 29 May Norwich City of Ale Various locations 26 May – 6th June Norfolk & Norwich Open Studios 28 May – 12 June nnopenstudios.org.uk JUNE British Art Show 8 Norwich University of the Arts and Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery 24 June – 4 September britishartshow8.com Worlds Festival 2016 - ‘Festival in a day’ Dragon Hall, King Street 25 June Royal Norfolk Show Norfolk Showground 29 – 30 June royalnorfolkshow.co.uk JULY Wymondham Music Festival 1 - 26 July wymfestival.org.uk Lord Mayor’s Celebrations Norwich City Centre July norwich.gov.uk/Events Norwich Lanes Summer Fayre The Norwich Lanes July norwichlanes.co.uk Shakespeare Festival Norwich Cathedral 15 – 16 July cathedral.org.uk Norwich Pride Norwich City Centre July Norwich University of the Arts Degree Show Norwich University of the Arts July nua.ac.uk AUGUST Run Norwich 7 August SEPTEMBER Norwich - Crime Writing Festival.

Writers’ Centre Norwich, various venues around Norwich 15 – 18 September writerscentrenorwich.org.uk Norwich Food & Drink Festival The Forum September norfolkfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk Moveable Feast Various locations across Norwich September norfolkfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk International Literature Showcase, Writers’ Centre Norwich September A digital showcase of outstanding new UK writing.

Heritage Open Days Around Norwich & Norfolk 8 – 11 September www.heritagecity.org Hostry Festival Norwich Cathedral October hostryfestival.org CAMRA Norwich Beer Festival Various locations October eastanglia.camra.org.uk UEA Autumn Literary Festival University of East Anglia October Punk Norwich in The Norwich Lanes October NOVEMBER The Assembly House Christmas Fair Theatre Street NR2 1RQ November www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk DECEMBER Carols with the King The Forum, Norwich December theforumnorwich.co.uk An Audience with Father Christmas, Holkham Hall, Wells next the Sea, Norfolk, NR23 1AB visitorinformation@holkham.co.uk Mince Pie Trains, Bure Valley Steam Railway After Christmas December - Beginning January www.bvrw.co.uk

126 the best of NORFOLK

Literary Norfolk Outside the shop in Norwich is a blackboard with a quote from Stephen Fry: “The kind of shop I dreamt of existing in Norwich when I was growing up”.

It was a remark he made on the night the shop opened where he was the guest of honour. Apart from being a gratefully received compliment within itself, those few words have been hugely valuable for us; the power of the Fry quote has to be experienced to be believed.

We forever hear people walk past the shop, read the quote out loud and say, ‘well if it’s good enough for him…!’, and in they come. (We also hear people announcing: ‘Stephen Fry’s favourite bookshop, that!’ Apologies Stephen – we never made that claim!). But the other day I had an interesting encounter with a lady who came into to ask if we wanted to buy a load of her ageing uncle’s books – she was Spanish and over here to help him downsize. I explained it wasn’t for us and recommended the excellent second hand book shop on Tombland, (www.tomblandbookshop.co.uk). She then said, ‘So, why is this shop so special?’. A little taken aback I faltered before asking what she meant. She pointed out the Fry quote - a reminder that if you’re going to splash that kind of remark around you’d better be ready to back it up with evidence – but before I had a chance she asked if he lived here. ‘He’s from here’, I replied, ‘and has a house in Norfolk still’. ‘Ah yes,’ she responded, ‘a lot of writers live here don’t they. Why?’ By this stage I was beginning to understand that her tone wasn’t so much accusatory as just Spanish, and we had a chat about how much she liked Norwich and wanted to retire here.

After she left I decided I had better brush up on some of my answers in case such a barrage of questioning came my way again, which got me thinking about why it is that so many writers make Norwich – and Norfolk more broadly – their home. It seems to me that the answer breaks down into three distinct categories, which reflect both the geography and nature of this region and the mind of a working writer: The practical, the distinctly unpractical and the social.

The practical element focuses on the city. Norwich is big enough to be more than a town and small enough not to be an overwhelming metropolis. It retains the feel of antiquity and historic importance through its wealth of medieval architecture and street plan, which gives a distinctly European feel – it’s a city to wander in. It is relatively cheap and importantly less than two hours to central London by train; within easy reach of the centre of UK publishing. There is also the UEA and its famous Creative Writing course. This is not only the way a great number of writers discover the city as students, but it also gives a large number of them employment. Its worth remembering that very few writers make their living by pen alone and the teaching of their craft is an invaluable source of income. It is these elements

that lead to the social aspect; writers are historically a wellknown bunch of drunks, and certainly the literary scene in Norwich is well oiled all year round. The writing community is thriving, leading to a great cross-fertilisation of ideas and projects, shops, small presses, book designers, illustrators and organisations like Writers Centre Norwich - responsible for the city being given its status as a UNESCO World City of Literature - all rubbing along together. Sometimes I think the question might be better posed how can you be a writer and NOT live here? (There are also a pinch of those earnest young students who think literary people just go out and talk about Proust, but they’ll get over it). The distinctly unpractical aspect is reflected in that most vital part of a writer’s life, space - whether it be physical, mental or both.

Within ten minutes’ drive of the city centre you can be deep in some of England’s most lovely countryside and dramatic coastline. The range of landscapes and natural habitats here is remarkable, leading to this being the home of some of our foremost nature writers; it is a precious and historic environment and wherever you find that, you usually find artists, cutting themselves off to be alone, dream, scribble and wander.

If you’re visiting the area then while you’re here have a look out for this abundancy of literary life – with so many people involved in the craft and profession of writing and making books it’s hard not to find some event or festival celebrating the written word at any time of year and you’d be welcome to join in! And if you’d like a memento of the Norfolk literary scene, why not subscribe to one of our ‘Very Flat’ Book Hive Year Packages? Simply fill in the form on our website and sign up to have a book chosen for you, which is in some way connected with Norfolk and Norwich - whether by author, subject or setting - hand wrapped and sent to your door every month for a year! For a taster you can find all these titles reviewed on the Best of Norfolk website. (Other nonNorfolk packages available!).

Henry Layte owns The Book Hive in Norwich thebookhive.co.uk Look out for their new series of literary events running February – June in Aylsham, featuring Louis De Bernieres, Alison Weir, Dan Cruickshank, Simon Armitage and David Crystal.

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Weddings at Brasted’s

H

ere at Brasted’s we have the perfect wedding venue located in a beautiful setting close to Norwich.

We have over 30 years experience in the organising and hosting of weddings, both large and small. We are also licensed for marriages enabling you to create the perfect wedding day in one location.

We offer a personal and bespoke service assuring that every aspect of your wedding day will be taken care of. All stress will be eliminated by our highly attentive and experienced team, who will attend to every detail so you can relax and enjoy your special day.

Brasted’s Manor Farm Barns, Framingham Pigot Norfolk NR14 7PZ Tel: 01508 491112 | brasteds.co.uk

★★★★★ ★★★★★ Restaurant with rooms

Self Catering Accommodation

Parties & Events

OUTSTANDING FRONT OF HOUSE

Restaurant

OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE

WINNER 2005 CHRIS ‘BUZZ’ BUSBY

Corporate Events

Weddings at Langley Abbey

L

angley Abbey is a beautiful venue, ideal for your wedding.

The Abbotts Chamber provides the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. Up to 150 people can be seated on the mezzanine floor with floor to ceiling aspects of the Main Hall. The grandeur of the Main Hall lends itself perfectly to variety of celebrations and the most special of all, your wedding breakfast.

Leading from the Main Hall is the gothic and atmospheric cellarium, perfect for a more intimate occasion or for dancing the night away. Set in the medieval former gatehouse of Langley Abbey, the clubroom offers light and airy surroundings providing an alternative aspect of the Abbey for your celebration.

BEST RESTAURANT 3 TIMES WINNER

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Langley Abbey Langley Abbey Estate, Nr Loddon Norfolk NR14 6DG Tel: 01508 491112 | langleyabbey.co.uk

DINERS’ CHOICE WINNER 2015

Langley Abbey

Sleeping Beauty

Where Fairytales Come True Cinderella

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In the case of engagement rings Winsor Bishop has played its part in countless fairytales coming true.

Sophie Fulford, Winsor Bishop’s Managing Director has orchestrated the store environment to a place where dreams are made. You enter an environment where tradition meets contemporary with a family atmosphere where you can drink champagne, talk to our expert staff about jewellery and browse the stunning and exclusive jewellery and watch collections with no pressure to buy. Taking over from her father in 2011, she has been revitalising the brand ever since - bringing her stylish Norwegian heritage, inherited from her mother and a strong business drive, inherited from her father she

Little Mermaid

Images are from Winsor Bishop’s 2015/16 Modern Fairytale Campaign

Winsor Bishop, the oldest jewellery shop in Norfolk.

We all recognise and love the historic deep purple facade that stands proud on London Street right in the heart of the city. When you open the purple door, you walk in to a place that is filled with over 180 years of cherished memories from each of the customers that have bought an engagement ring, wedding band, piece of jewellery or a watch. Each item bought from Winsor Bishop always holds a special memory relating to a place or time in someone’s life.

has modernised the business making it strong, contemporary and cool.

Sophie has pioneered Winsor Bishop’s own jewellery collections ensuring that pieces are a combination of luxurious and traditional glamour with a contemporary twist and at affordable prices. Key to any collection created is wearability, something which Sophie focuses on, giving the customer the most pleasure possible from a piece of Winsor Bishop jewellery. Her strategy is to ensure Winsor Bishop has the best jewellery and watch collections in East Anglia - she has emphasised commitment on key brands such as Rolex, in order for Winsor Bishop to be one of the leading suppliers in the UK.

Rolex has this year introduced a new black and 18ct Everose gold version of its nautical Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master, fitted exclusively with the innovative Oysterflex bracelet developed and patented by Rolex.

This technical bracealet combines in a singular way the robustness and reliability of a metal bracelet with the flexibility, comfort and aesthetics of an elastomer strap.

At its core lies a superelastic metal blade overmoulded with a high-performance black elastometer.

Ref. 116655 Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master

This new Yacht-Master is offered in two sizes: 40 mm and a new 37 mm diameter. Its Oyster case in 18ct Everose gold includes a rotatable bezel fitted with a new Cerachrom insert in black ceramic with polished raised numerals on a matt background. This finish underscores the similar contrast between the polished 18ct Everose gold watch case and the matt black of the Oysterflex bracelet, dial and Cerachrom insert.

Rolex has also recently introduced the new generation of its Oyster Perpetual Lady-Datejust model, featuring a redesigned case enlarged to 28mm and Calibre 2236, a mechanical movement fitted with a Rolex-patented Syloxi hairspring in silicon for superlative chronometric performance. Its precision on the wrist satisfies criteria that are twice as exacting as those for an officially certified chronometer.

The new Lady-Datejust 28 is a perfect complement to the new Day-Date 40 also introduced this year, and follows a similar aesthetic evolution: refined lugs and middle case, a broad and clear dial, as well as a President closely integrated into the Oyster case. The new Lady-Datejust 28 is offered in 950 platinum or in 18 ct yellow or Everose gold with new dials, veritable signatures of its renewal.

Ref. 279135RBR Oyster Perpetual Lady-Datejust 28

Everose and yellow gold models also come with the option of a Jubilee bracelet.

In addition, Rolex presents new versions of its quintessential Oyster Perpetual, model, introducing an entirely new 39mm size as well as exclusive new dials for the 26, 31 and 34mm sizes. These new versions join the 31 and 36mm Oyster Perpetual unveiled in 2014, creating an entire family of different sizes and attractive dial colours for a model that affords full access to the Rolex legend. The red grape colour is available throughout the 26, 31, 34, 36 and 39mm, providing a common thread throughout the family.

Ref. 114300 Oyster Perpetual 39

The Oyster Perpetual is the purest expression of the Oyster concept, having no other function than a reliable and accurate time display. This watch is the direct descendant of the original Oyster launched in 1926, the first waterproof wristwatch in the world and the foundation on which Rolex has built its reputation.It comprises the renowned waterproof Oyster case and Rolex manufactured mechanical self-winding Perpetual movement. An officially certified chronometer, the Oyster Perpetual is endowed with all the fundamental attributes of the Oyster collection. This timeless model stands out with its eye-catching new dials in elegant and sporty colours.

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DRAMA | MUSIC | COMEDY CABARET | FILM | TALKS VISUAL ART | THEATRE CLASSES

the Library Restaurant THE HOME OF THEATRE AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT IN NORWICH BOX OFFICE WEBSITE

01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk

4a Guildhall Hill, Norwich NR2 1JH 01603 616606 thelibraryrestaurant.co.uk

Maddermarket Theatre, St. John’s Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR

The largest selection of the finest outdoor clothing whether walking the dog or walking about town

Country Clothing

Lifestyle Clothing

7 Bedford Street, Norwich, NR2 1AR Tel 01603 622845 gallyonsclothing.co.uk

11 Red Lion Street (opposite Debenhams) Norwich, NR1 3QF Tel 01603 767946

 BARBOUR  MUSTO  HUNTER  R.M WILLIAMS  DUBARRY  SCHOFFEL  AIGLE  DEERHUNTER  LE CHAMEAU  STETSON  CHRISTYS  DRIZA-BONE  SEELAND  FAIRFAX & FAVOR  HARKILA  BLADEN  ALAN PAINE  CHRYSALIS  SOWERBY  TILLEY  JACK MURPHY  AND MANY MORE  FABULOUS SELECTION OF TWEEDS

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East Norfolk and The Broads

East Norfolk and The Broads events 135 Best of the region East Norfolk and The Broads 136 5 Best cultural visits 138 Wroxham 140 Boating on The Broads 142 Aylsham 144

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EAST NORFOLK AND THE BROADS events 2016 APRIL 2016 Horning Boat Show at Horning | 30 April MAY Aylsham Festival | May Norfolk Bird and Wildlife Fair at Mannington Hall | 21-22 May Bluebell walk at Fairhaven Woodland and water garden | 1 May JUNE Steam Day at Museum of the Broads | 12 June Broads Outdoor Festival | May / June Green Festival at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden | 26 June JULY Open Gardens & Scarecrow Festival at Winterton-on-Sea | July Gorleston Cliff Top FestIval | 30 - 31 July AUGUST Aylsham Show Bank Holiday | 29 August Last Night of the Blickling Proms | August SEPTEMBER Bure Valley Railway Steam Gala | September Wroxham Barns Scone Competition | September Great Yarmouth Out there festival St. George’s Park | 16 -18 September Festival of Bowls | 28 August -23 September Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival | 10 - 11 September OCTOBER Aylsham Food Festival | October

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best of the region EAST NORFOLK AND THE BROADS

The Norfolk Broads

There may be no more peaceful place than the Norfolk Broads, a landscape unchanged for generations. For solitude it’s hard to beat Strumpshaw Fen, where wildlife thrives alongside a herd of Highland cows. But pick any part of The Broads and you won’t be disappointed, whether for a gentle yomp or a rollicking boat ride.

For livelier pursuits, start in Wroxham to hire any manner of watercraft. Children will enjoy the Bure Valley Steam Railway, or meeting animals at Wroxham Barns or the whimsical Bewilderwood.

THE GUNTON ARMS A kind of rock’n’roll hunting lodge, filled with overspill pieces from Ivor Braka’s collection of modern art, a visit to the Gunton Arms is always memorable. Don’t miss the theatre of real flame cooking in the Elk Room, overseen with great skill by chef Stuart Tattersall, who uses local ingredients such as venison from the surrounding deer park. There’s also a proper pub area, smelling of beer and woodsmoke, complete with pool table and dartboard.

NR11 8TZ theguntonarms.co.uk

GREAT YARMOUTH RACECOURSE This attractive racecourse has a sea view and is one of the only ones in the country with a straight mile - for all those who aren’t racing fans this means younger horses can race.

Local knowledge Many people associate the Broads with boating, but did you know it has over 190 miles of footpaths through some of the area’s most attractive landscapes.

For a great family day out why not visit the Great Yarmouth Racecourse - If you book online you save £4 on the ticket and children under 18 are admitted free to all enclosures when accompanied by an adult. If you are new to racing check out their online beginners guide before you set off which is easily found on their website.

NR30 4AU greatyarmouth-reacecourse.co.uk

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#WINNER

THE INGHAM SWAN Daniel Smith, Chef Patron, is a multiaward-winning chef with a Michelin Bib Gourmand. He is passionate about serving good, honest food from a regularly-changing menu, dedicated to seasonality that is reasonably priced and all within a relaxed setting, with personal service to boot. Perfectly placed only 15 miles from Norwich and three miles from the coast, The Ingham Swan is well worth seeking out for its inventive menu alone. If you are visiting this part of the county, it’s a great place to stay and dine. Just be aware that if you’re visiting with your dog after a walk on Sea Palling beach, it’s strictly an outside affair.

NR12 9AB SOMERLEYTON

theinghamswan.co.uk

Brimming with history, romance and grandeur. Whether indoors or outdoors, there’s plenty to keep you occupied at one of Britain’s most wellpreserved stately homes and gardens.

You can even camp by Fritton Church or stay at the estate’s very own boutique hotel - The Fritton Arms.

Set in a beautiful 5000 acre English estate and open to the public every April to September, Somerleyton plays host to numerous events, serves pub-goers at The Duke’s Head and holidaymakers with its charming Fritton Lake Retreats.

NR32 5QQ somerleyton.co.uk

HAPPISBURGH The first thing you need to know is that this place is pronounced ‘Haze’Brah’ and not ‘Happy’s Burg’.

Archaeological excavations on Happisburgh beach have revealed that ancient humans lived in Britain more than 800,000 years ago, making them the earliest northern Europeans in existence. When on a beach walk bear in mind that early human footprints thought to be a million years old were discovered on this very coastline.

The beach here has always been a popular visit with its high cliffs, fields overlooking the sea and of course the Happisburgh Lighthouse. It is the oldest working light in East Anglia, and the only independently run lighthouse in the UK. Originally one of a pair, it was built in 1790 with a 85ft tall tower and a lantern 134ft above sea level.

GORLESTON BEACH This stretch of coast is perfect for a family day out with grassy cliffs, a sandy beach and RNLI Lifeguards patrols during the summer.

NR31 6DQ

Local knowledge There are five rivers which flow through the Broads – the Bure, the Yare, the Ant, the Thurne and the Waveney.

NR12 0QA

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The Thomas Paine Trail

Norwich cathedral

Although better known state-side than in his native land, Paine was a Thetford born man who went on to be one of the most influential political theorists of the 1776 American Revolution. Thetford now hosts a trail for you to trace his steps around the town. Discover commemorative plaques & statues as well as Thetford Grammar where he went to school.

Don’t miss the Ancient House Museum or the memorabilia at the Thomas Paine Hotel. thomaspaineuk.com

This awe inspiring cathedral has recently undergone a revamp, and is fast becoming a place to be seen in the city. Regardless of whether you’re religious or not, this is the most complete piece of Norman architecture in England and its vast structure mustn’t be missed. People of all faiths are welcome to enjoy the diverse program of events throughout the year which includes popular art and photography exhibitions. If you pop in you can enjoy a light lunch or coffee and cake in the Refectory cafe, and experience the tranquillity of the Herb and Japanese Gardens. cathedral.org.uk

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Sainsburys Centre for Visual Arts A cultural visit to Norfolk wouldn’t be complete without popping into the internationally renowned Sainsburys Centre. Not only does is it have collections spanning 5000 years of human creativity, the space is also divided into unique transparent sections. In 2016 you can expect to find an exhibition entitled ‘Fiji: Art and Life in the Pacific’, which will bring together a variety of 250 objects that build up a picture of life in this remote part of the world. Check the website for further shows. scva.ac.uk

Best Cultural VISITS Seahenge In 1998, the shifting sands of Holme beach on the North Norfolk coast revealed something extraordinary.

Preserved in the sand were the remains of a unique timber circle dating back 4000 years to the Early Bronze Age. The timbers soon became known as ‘Seahenge’ and are now preserved at Lynn Museum in 48 parts. Experience a life-size replica of the structure in its glory days, then discover the timbers as they were found on the beach. museums.norfolk.gov.uk

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The Norfolk School of painters During the early nineteenth century, a movement of Norfolk painters known for their rural watercolours made an impact on the art scene. Following the creation of the Norwich Society of Artists, the movement continued for over three generations. Wealthy Norwich families were the patrons of this elite, but at a time when lots of art was overshadowed by the vast output of Turner and Constable, much of this work didn’t reach the heights of fame that it perhaps deserved. Today their work can be seen at the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery. museums.norfolk.gov.uk

the boathouse ormesby broad

A warm welcome is guaranteed at our magical waterfront location, overlooking the beautiful Ormesby Broad.

Traditional pub dining with some tasty chefs specials. Eat, drink, relax and enjoy The Boathouse.

Booking advisable tel: 01493 730342

www.theboathouseormesbybroad.co.uk A$ Best of Norfolk Ad.indd 1

27/11/2014 12:05

Wroxham As the gateway to the Broads, Wroxham is packed with plenty for land-lovers and sailing enthusiasts to enjoy.

HISTORY The stunning labyrinth of rivers known as the Broads may seem completely natural but, in the 1950s, they were discovered to be manmade. Formed by medieval peat excavations, the landscape of waterways, reed beds and wet woodland is ideal for yacht racing and boating holidays.

The Museum of the Broads in nearby Stalham is a great place to find out more about the area’s past. It is dog-friendly and runs river trips on a Victorian steam boat.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE Wroxham is partly merged with Hoveton, a town on the other side

of the River Bure. Eight miles from Norwich, they are both excellent starting points for exploring this area.

Hiring a boat takes you off the beaten track and allows you to fully understand the beauty of this area, spot its wildlife and try out a few of the pubs, many of which are best reached from the water.

The boats are very easy to handle, but if you don’t fancy taking charge yourself there are plenty of manned motor cruisers offering trips.

picturesque acres where children can play and enjoy some hands-on fun If not, a trip on the Bure Valley Railway is always popular. It runs between Wroxham and Aylsham in the school holidays as well as during the main summer season.

HOTSPOT Wroxham Barns, NR12 8QU

Wroxham Barns, on the outskirts of the town, is a collection of shops and workshops where you’ll find a wide range of rural crafts. It is set in 15

best of RECOMMENDS CLIMB ABOARD

VISIT

HIRE

Hire a Broads Tours boat for the day. No experience is necessary, and you can take your own lunch and have it afloat.

The Museum of the Broads, the only waterside museum of Broadland life, at Stalham. Dogs on a lead are welcome.

Bikes from Broadland Cycles along with maps and friendly advice on the best routes around Hoveton.

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Kids, Great for Grown-Up r o f t a e s Gr OOR PLAY • SHOPPING • RESTA ARM • IND UR AN RF T JUNIO S • FUNFAIR & MINI GOLF • EVEN O I D U T S T F T A S R C

We are open 7 days a week!

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2016

01603 783762 • www.wroxhambarns.co.uk NR12 8QU• FREE & FAST WIFI *There is an admission charge for Junior Farm

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Six sup er stores in one v illage!

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ROYS OF WROXHAM

DIY Cen tre

Child ren’s World

Toy S tore

1,000 Free parking spaces Open 7 days a week Convenient late night opening

Please see our website for full details of our opening times

Stalham Road, WROXHAM NR12 8DB 01603 782131 www.roys.co.uk enquiries@roysonline.co.uk

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boating on The Broads Since Victorian times, the Norfolk Broads have been a popular holiday destination for many thousands of visitors – there really is nowhere quite like it for simply messing about in boats!

Altogether there are some 125 miles or 200 kilometres of lock-free navigable waterways to explore.

There really is no better place to get up close to some of England’s best loved and most spectacular wildlife.

There are five rivers which flow through the Broads – the Bure, the Yare, the Ant, the Thurne and the Waveney.

During Spring and Summer the Broads brings hosts of migrant birds and huge flocks of waders and waterfowl spend their winter here.

A Broads cruise means waterside pubs, restaurants, easy and abundant mooring places and a peacefully relaxed atmosphere that is the essence of every good holiday.

AWARD WINNING luxury holiday cruisers and waterside holiday homes within the Broads National Park

For more information and our 2016 holiday brochure with FREE video content, please contact us on 01603 782207 or visit our website www.broads.co.uk Norfolk Broads Direct The Bridge Wroxham Norfolk NR12 8RX

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The Norfolk Broads are now home to over 250 species of plants and a hugh variety of insects, it includes some of Europe’s most special nature reserves, with no fewer than 28 Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

Whatever you want from your holiday, there is no doubt the Norfolk Broads will reward you with a wonderful variety of options – here you are simply spoilt for choice!

POWERBOAT RACING These races are held, on Thursday evenings, bank holidays and some Sundays at Oulton Broad.

BOAT TRIPS & BOAT HIRE Wroxham –Broads Tours 01603 782207

The beauty of the Broads is best appreciated from the water and many different types of craft can be hired by the hour, half day, a day or for a holiday. Motor boats, electric boats, sailing dinghies and windsurfers are also available – as are boat trips.

Norwich City Boats 01603 701701 Horsey Ross River Trips 01692 598135

River trips and self drive boats on the Norfolk Broads

Discover the magic...

What better way to discover the diversity of this enchanting landscape than to relax on one of our river trips, with entertaining live commentary, light refreshments and a licensed bar.

Trips available from Easter - 31st October Or if you would rather be at the helm yourself, then pack a picnic, hire a boat by the hour or day and allow the Broads to reveal its wonders at your own pace.

To experience the special magic of the Broads, call us on 01603 782207 or visit our website for more information www.broadstours.co.uk

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Aylsham A historic market town close to country houses at Blickling, Felbrigg, Mannington and Wolterton.

HISTORY Aylsham is an historic market town on the River Bure. It prospered during the medieval trade, with Aylsham linens famously supplying royal palaces.

Today the Black Boys Inn in the Market Place is one of the oldest buildings still standing in the town and is a bit of living heritage. It used to be a coach stop in the 15th century and had stabling for 40 horses.

MARKET DAYS There is twice weekly market on Mondays and Fridays, with the two monthly farmers’ markets on the first and third Saturdays of the month.

They showcase many of the region’s small producers. The town is linked to the Slow Food movement, being one of only two Cittaslows in Norfolk.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE If you have time, explore the town, with its spidery alleyways and lanes surrounding the bustling Market Place where the gothic architecture of St Michael’s and All Angels Church is awe-inspiring. The historic Weavers’ Way and Marriott’s Way both pass directly through the town, so there are great walking options, too.

A trip on the Bure Valley Railway, from Aylsham to the Broads at Wroxham, is an enjoyable way to while away an afternoon or a day, stopping at various typically Norfolk villages en route. Also close to Aylsham are Mannington and Wolterton Halls, homes of the Walpole family, with beautiful gardens, and an excellent award-winning pub, the Walpole Arms, at Itteringham.

The Jacobean Blickling Hall, a stately home run by the National Trust, immediately makes an impression with its grand façade surrounded by ancient yew hedging. Once home to Anne Boleyn, there are plenty opportunities for a walk around the large lake in the estate grounds and an essential visit to the tea shop.

You can also hire bikes – this is perfect cycling territory so pack up a picnic and head off.

HOTSPOT The Black Boys Hotel, NR11 6EH

best of RECOMMENDS DRIVE Take a one day steam locomotive driving lesson at The Bure Valley Railway

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VISIT

CONJURE UP

A free exhibition at the Hobart Gallery. You can also ride a segway and play croquet on the lawn at Blickling Hall.

Something original at Davenport’s Magic Kingdom in nearby North Walsham – Britain’s only magic museum and theatre.

Beechwood Hotel One of the leading small hotels in the UK

A hotel with a friendly and informal atmosphere; eighteen comfortable and well-appointed bedrooms; a creative Head Chef sourcing produce from local farms and Cromer fishermen; a Heritage coastline, a Royal country retreat, inland waterways and a cathedral city all close by; are our recipe for a great short break!

'Hurrah for passion and true value for money. A treasure which is setting a standard everyone in the industry should aspire to.' Visit Britain

Our rooms, your sanctuary…

Our bedrooms are delightful. Giant sized beds, large Georgian windows, Vi-Spring mattresses, squashy duvets, mounds of pillows, posh bath goodies, fluffy bathrobes and bathrooms with free standing baths are features of many of our rooms. Some also have French doors to our peaceful gardens.

And we’ll make your bed up just how you like it. After all, a good night’s sleep is a pre-requisite of a restful break away.

At the Beechwood Hotel we offer the following accomodation: Garden and four-poster rooms; spacious with Victorian-style bathrooms, featuring a freestanding 'Mae West' style slipper bath, separate walk-in shower & w.c.

Classic double rooms; with bath, shower & w.c. , some with Victorian-style bathrooms featuring freestanding baths and separate walk-in shower.

Small double rooms; cosy rooms with shower & w.c

We look forward to welcoming you.

Beechwood Hotel 20 Cromer Rd, North Walsham NR28 0HD 01692 403231 www.beechwood-hotel.co.uk

ALBY TEA ROOM Passionate about good quality homecooked food and locally sourced produce Simon Chipperfield and his team are pleased to welcome everyone into their tea room to sample Meg Foster’s famous baking and the delicious seasonal lunch menu.

T 01263 761652 Photograph of Valerie Alston: Helen Storer

W albycrafts.co.uk E info@norfolk-farmshop.co.uk

Browse our shops and galleries, enjoy a coffee or light lunch and take a stroll around the peaceful gardens.

Opening Times Winter Opening Times (6 January to 20 March) Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm Spring/Summer Opening Times Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm Open Bank Holiday Mondays

Cromer Road, Alby, NR11 7QE www.albycrafts.co.uk

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS!

01263 761652

This attractive converted barn complex was opened as a craft centre in June 1976.

Forty years later it is still going strong with a thriving community of small creative businesses.

When John & Valerie Alston bought Grove Farm John threatened to bulldoze the derelict barns unless Valerie could come up with a viable scheme for saving them. “The barns were full of cow muck,” says Valerie, “and there were rubble and weeds everywhere.” But Valerie was determined to clear the site, renovate the barns and turn the complex into a craft centre. “There weren’t any craft centres in those days, and I had a lot of opposition from the local council who said that there wasn’t any tourism in north Norfolk.”

After two years of hard work the craft centre was opened on 2nd June 1976.

“The first craftsman to take a workshop was Keith Theobald. He made harps – you couldn’t get into his workshop it was so untidy! You’d call in and he’d be sitting there playing a harp he’d just made.”

In this 40th year the craftsmen at Alby will be making some limited edition commemorative pieces available from June: look out for a peacock wall plaque, a honey bee bowl, a carved wooden serving board and a lino print entitled ‘Valerie’s Garden’. You can find up to date details of this and other events on our website at albycrafts.co.uk

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ALLBEES & ANGLIA CLAY SUPPLIES Tucked away in the lower courtyard AllBees supplies beekeepers with all the essential equipment, from protective clothing, hive tools and smokers, to jars and labels to package your crop of honey.

Owner Helen Dixon also runs Anglia Clay Supplies from her studio, where you will find all the things you need to create beautiful pottery and sculpture.

There are lots of different types of clay and glazes available, a great selection of potters’ tools, as well as a firing service for those who don’t have a kiln.

Pottery sessions regularly take place at the Learn·Create classroom next door which is also available to hire as a workspace.

E helen@worldofbees.co.uk ANGLIA CLAY SUPPLIES W angliaclaysupplies.co.uk E angliaclaysupplies@gmail.com LEARN·CREATE W learn-create.co.uk E info@learn·create.co.uk T 07947 880163

JANE KENNING/PERFECTLY PENCIL Jane Kenning and Hannah Ghoorahoo share The Gallery Upstairs where they make bespoke corsetry, wedding gowns, reproduction vintage dresses, curtains and soft furnishings.

Jane, who has worked in costume departments in various theatres as well as Madame Tussauds, now enjoys working with beautiful fabrics making dresses and corsets for her clients.

Hannah offers a complementary measuring service and a range of beautiful fabrics for simple but wellmade hand-hemmed and weighted curtains and unique cushions.

W janekenning.com E janekenning@hotmail.co.uk E relovedin.norfolk@btinternet.com

THE PURPLE PARROT STUDIO HOUSE Studio House runs courses in sculpture from beginners to master classes, in a friendly atmosphere where likeminded people from all walks of life can enhance their skills together.

Classes cover portrait bust, figurative, plaque, direct wax modelling and open study projects. Mould making in plaster and silicon rubber is carried out in the Alby studio alongside a gallery space where you can purchase sculpture by Mitchell House, prints and originals by Norfolk artists Michael Sanders and Sam Thomas amongst others.

In the Purple Parrot gift shop you will find an eclectic mix of gifts, cards, toys, plants and gardenware. The ethos of Purple Parrot is to provide affordable and interesting items with an ever-increasing and changing range of products. Linger in the relaxed atmosphere and browse the beautiful items at your leisure. You’re sure to find that perfect purchase for friends, family – or even yourself! The Purple Parrot is also delighted to be taking orders for local florist Floribunda, including hand-tied bouquets, garlands and candle arrangements.

T 01263 761573

T 01263 577448 | 07917 826585

W albycrafts.co.uk

W mitchell-house.co.uk

E thepurpleparrot4@yahoo.co.uk

E mitchell@mitchell-house.co.uk

KEVERNE DEWICK You will find the working studio of Keverne Dewick in the lower courtyard, a craftsman producing turned decorative items and bespoke wooden furniture. Whether it’s a lamp to brighten up that dark corner or a display cabinet to fill that awkward alcove, if it’s not already on display Keverne will happily make it for you.

He also offers one-to-one courses giving the recipient an intensive introduction to woodturning and all the skills necessary to further develop this fascinating craft.

Claire Knight’s gallery has now expanded and exhibits the work of over 40 artists and craftspeople, most of whom are based in East Anglia.

The range of work shown includes jewellery, ceramics, creative textiles, metalwork, prints and paintings as well as Claire’s own paper cut artwork.

T 01263 761400

T 01263 768820

T 01692 402371

W kdewick.co.uk

W hareandmoongallery.co.uk

W unknownnorfolk.co.uk

E k.dewick123@btinternet.com

E info@hareandmoongallery.co.uk

E info@unknownnorfolk.co.uk

UNKNOWN NORFOLK THE HARE & MOON GALLERY

Jamie Cooper at Unknown Norfolk Gallery specialises in traditional and contemporary artwork. Represented are international artists June and Alwyn Crawshaw, and local artists Brian Korteling, Ruth Mann, Malcolm Woods and others have work for sale at the gallery. Jamie also produces work here and runs a range of drawing classes.

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SOMERLEYTON East Norfolk’s most exciting holiday adventure A beautiful 5,000 acre country estate located on the border of Suffolk and Norfolk, just a stone’s throw from the coast. With a huge amount to offer visitors, it makes a fantastic day or night out in East Norfolk.

THE HALL People have lived at the Somerleyton site since the Norman Conquest, and there’s evidence of a manor house here as early as 1240 AD. Today the hall is home to Lord and Lady Somerleyton and their young family.

Today’s visitors appreciate the hall’s beautiful stone work and sumptuous interior detailing, courtesy of Victorian entrepreneur Sir Samuel Morton Peto.

He hired John Thomas, Prince Albert’s favourite sculptor, to carry out the renovations and the quality of the workmanship shines through today.

Great houses such as Somerleyton were built to impress and entertain, making it a dream venue for a grand wedding, a ball or even a banquet.

The hall is available for private hire, please contact the estate for details: privatesomerleyton.co.uk THE GARDEN Visit the walled garden to discover the ornate iron and glass greenhouses designed by Joseph Paxton, the architect of the Crystal Palace. Don’t miss the 70 foot long pergola, home to wisteria, roses and clematis or the restored Nesfield parterre (formal garden), working kitchen garden, restored and restocked Victorian aviary and the arboretum with magnificent trees. Somerleyton is also home to one of the finest yew hedge mazes in Britain, originally planted back in 1846.

When you need a sit down, the Kitchen Garden Café is the perfect place to put your feet up. You can unwind with a relaxing cup of tea, homemade cakes and more.

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Prices and opening times vary according to the season of your visit and the estate also runs special events throughout the year. Please check the website somerleyton.co.uk or telephone 0871 222 4244 ahead of your visit. Families and groups are very welcome.

FRITTON LAKE OUTDOOR CENTRE The Somerleyton estate offers an outdoor centre with a great selection of family activities. You don’t need to book ahead to use stand up paddle boards (SUPs), canoes, rowing boats, katakanus, electric outboards, bikes, pedal go-karts, or to have a game of pitch and putt golf.

By booking in advance you can also take part in instructor-led activities such as tree climbing, archery, bushcraft, low ropes, SUPs and canoeing or katakanuing.

DINING AND ACCOMMODATION THE DUKE’S HEAD AND THE FRITTON ARMS Somerleyton is neighboured by two excellent pubs, The Duke’s Head dukesheadsomerleyton.co.uk and The Fritton Arms frittonarms.co.uk, which both offer local ales, fine wines and delicious seasonal menus. The Fritton Arms also offers accommodation and serves produce from the Somerleyton estate.

Fritton Lake Outdoor Centre is also home to open water swimming, a 5km parkrun and Norfolk’s Premier Triathlon Festival Weekend plus other special events.

There are no admission prices or entry costs, you’ll just need to pay the £10 pay and display car parking fee to access 35 acres of park and woodland, including the adventure playground.

FRITTON LAKE RETREATS - RENT OR INVEST IN YOUR OWN LUXURY TIMBER WOODLAND LODGE Retreat to nature with a short break or family holiday at Fritton Lake Retreats.

These comfortable, modern facilities are set in the heart of 250 acres of mature woodland, so nature is right on your doorstep. Whether you like to walk, cycle, play golf, fish, ride horses or just relax on your decking with a glass of wine enjoying the stillness of Lake Fritton, you’ll feel right at home here. Some lodges are also for sale. frittonlakelodges.co.uk

An idyllic day out at Somerleyton Hall & Gardens Amazing maze ■ Kitchen Garden Café ■ Willow play area ■ Restored Nesfield parterre ■ Sunken white garden ■ Working kitchen garden ■ Children’s trail ■ Restored and restocked Victorian aviary ■ Arboretum with magnificent Victorian specimen trees and new planting for 2016 ■

Open from Easter to the end of September. For opening days, times and prices please visit

www.somerleyton.co.uk or call 0871 222 4244 30 minutes from Norwich, 15 minutes from GreatYarmouth, 15 minutes from Beccles and 10 minutes from Lowestoft.

Somerleyton Hall Gardens, Somerleyton NR32 5QQ  @SomerleytonHall  /SomerleytonHall  /somerleyton_estate

West Norfolk

West Norfolk events 151 Best of the region West Norfolk 153 King’s Lynn 154 Hunstanton 156 Antique Auctions & Fairs 159 Stately Homes & Gardens 160 Waveney Valley 162

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WEST NORFOLK events 2016 FEBRUARY King’s Lynn Mart | February MARCH King’s Lynn Fiction Festival | 11 - 13 March APRIL Sandringham Craft Show | 16/17 April MAY Houghton International Horse trails | 26 -29 May Hanse Festival | May JUNE / JULY Sandringham Horse Trails | 23-26 June Hunstanton Carnival | 26 June Festival Too King’s Lynn | June /July Sandringham Flower Festival | July 66th Kings Lynn Festival | 17-30 July Old Hunstanton Flower Festival | July/ August AUGUST Sandringham Food and Drink Festival | 6-7th August Tennis Tournament | 14-20 August Heacham Carnival | August Hunstanton Kite Festival | August Bread Festival Bircham Mill | 29 August SEPTEMBER Poetry Festival | September Sandringham Game & Country Fair | 10-11 September Hunstanton Lifestyles Extreme Sports & Culture Festival | September NOVEMBER Sandringham Christmas Craft Food and Gift Fair | 18-20 November Festival of Swans at Welney | November

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best of the region WEST NORFOLK Hunstanton beach

It’s said that West Norfolk struggles for an identity. It can be overlooked by visitors drawn to the county’s more celebrated regions, but that is all the more reason to explore this intriguing part of Norfolk – it’s home to the only coastal town in East Anglia to face West for example.

It’s varied… unloved in parts but equally beautiful and brimming with heritage in others. Renowned for its stunning coastline and unspoilt countryside it’s a perfect option to unwind and soak up the sheer sense of space and tranquillity. #WASHMONSTER

NORFOLK LAVENDER STEIFF BEARS Derek Clark the owner of Beers of Europe has spent many years answering the phone to ‘“is this bears of Europe?” and has decided to open a Steiff Bears Store, the luxury bears created in 1880 by Margaret Steiff are now available in King’s Lynn next to Beers of Europe. www.beersofeurope.co.uk

Don’t miss…

If you happen to be in Hunstanton between the 14 -20 August, visit the annual lawn tennis tournament which has been running since the 1920s and is the largest in the UK.

THE WASH MONSTER Sea Tours have been operating since 1929 and the latest member of the Searle family to run these unique seal safaris and coastal trips is the charismatic Captain Willie. Using two original amphibious vessels, the Wash Monsters were originally designed for use by American Marines in Vietnam. Departing from the central promenade in Hunstanton, each tour provides an imaginative and fun way of discovering the local wildlife populations and panoramic views as well as learning of historic legends around The Wash.

PE36 5BH seatours.co.uk

At first sight this looks like a well-stocked gift shop there is, however, much more here than meets the eye. There are lavender gardens, the National Lavender Collection and herb garden, plus for 2016 you’ll be able to see the first flowering of lavender and rosemary on Torrey’s Field - adjacent to Caley Mill.

Also this year, there’s a new maze and petting barn opening.

For kids there’s an indoor play area - Farmer Fred’s Playbarn, one of the very few in Norfolk and essential if the weather is wet. On sunny days they’ll love the Animal Farm and outdoor play area, home to a range of unusual creatures.

The best time to visit is in the summer months when there’s much more activity. The distillery is well worth a visit, but be aware it’s only operational in harvest - July and early August depending on weather.

PE31 7JE norfolk-lavender.co.uk

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RAINBOW PARK FUNFAIR

ARCHITECTURE King’s Lynn has more Grade 1 listed buildings than York and was one of England’s most important ports from as early as the 12th Century. Although the town feels down at heal in parts, it really is worth a visit. An obvious place to start is the iconic Custom House, home to the Tourist Information Centre where you can discover the story of King’s Lynn’s maritime history and pick up a free copy of the Discover King’s Lynn Heritage Trail. This guide will lead you through ancient streets and meandering cobbled lanes, which stretch down to the river past fine historic buildings.

There have been fairground rides in Hunstanton since 1880 and Rainbow Park has been offering traditional seaside fun on the site for over 50 years. There are a wide range of kitsch rides for adults and children from the Nightmare Ghost Train, Dodgems, G Force to the very special Golden Gallopers that date back to 1906 the carousel is fun for every age.

PE36 5BD rainbow-park.co.uk #HUNSTANTON

PE30 1HP visitwestnorfolk.com

HUNSTANTON SEALIFE SANCTUARY Sanctuary you say… that’s because this location has a brand new hospital for rescued Norfolk seals as well as being a state-of-the-art marine aquarium.

The hospital has been completely rebuilt with improved viewing of the seal pups and new isolation pens added for ‘intensive care’ casualties. There’s also a great seal-viewing experience through an underwater glass window.

The hospital facility is entirely funded by the sanctuary, so if your eyes mist over with the thought of traipsing round this acoustically challenged venue, it’s worth remembering that you’re making a direct contribution to the welfare of these long-lived mammals.

Also whatever you do, don’t just turn up and buy tickets - prebook online and save on the admission price.

PE36 5BH visitsealife.com

MARKET BISTRO Owned and run by Lucy and Richard Golding with the simple philosophy of serving good food at affordable prices, this unpretentious restaurant is the best in King’s Lynn. The knowledgeable and enthusiastic owners make everything from scratch in their tiny ‘galley-like’ kitchen, and offer a great children’s menu that consists of grown up food for small mouths!

PE30 5DQ

Local knowledge A short trip along the coast takes you to Holme-next-the-Sea, where the incredible 4000-year-old Seahenge was discovered

marketbistro.co.uk

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King’s Lynn A port with plenty, rich in history, myth and legend.

HISTORY The town in a former age, until 1537, was known as Bishop’s Lynn, and to trace its history visit the Lynn Museum, where you can step back in time and see the domestic life of Lynn residents from medieval times to the 1950s. There is also Tales of the Old Gaol House where stories abound of witches, murderers and highwaymen – King’s Lynn is on the borders of the Fens and the Wash where legend thrives and mysterious hauntings are still believed to take place. Heritage Day in King`s Lynn sees a vast number of properties opened to the public, including the recently discovered airraid shelters under the Tuesday Market Place.

FESTIVALS The season begins with the traditional “Mart”, a two-week funfair in the Tuesday Market Place. In March the Fiction Festival arrives. May sees the Hanse Festival and that is followed by Festival Too – a programme of free

musical events throughout the town.

The King`s Lynn Festival, embracing jazz, drama and classical music of a very high standard and attracting a good range of international performers, is held in mid-July.

Poetry lovers flock to the town in late September.

The Art Centre on Kings Street regularly hosts displays and exhibitions and it is worth checking to see what is on at the theatre during your visit.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE Visitors frequently return to their accommodation at the end of a day`s exploring complaining that they have not had enough time to see it all.

To the south, the Saturday Market Place and the Minster (St Margaret’s).

At the north, the impressive Tuesday Marketplace. Between the shopping area and west of that are the historic districts of King Street, Queen Street and the Quay. But don`t feel bound by these perimeters. Just off the

Tuesday Market Place is the True`s Yard Fisherfolk Museum and the magnificent and recently restored St Nicholas, which hosts concerts and art exhibitions throughout the season.

Just south of the Saturday Market Place lies historic Nelson Street. For the best views of Lynn take the ferry across the river and walk south and back into town over the bridge.

To guide you on your way around the town, call in at The Custom House, where there is an excellent Tourist Information Centre, which houses an exhibition of the maritime history of the port.

AN EXCELLENT BASE To explore... Sandringham, bird reserves at Snettisham and Titchwell, the North Norfolk Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, historic houses and pretty villages HOTSPOT Knights Hill Hotel & Spa PE30 3HQ

best of RECOMMENDS READ

MEANDER

GET ARTY

Visit Torc Books, a traditional Snettisham second-hand bookshop specialising in military volumes, open Friday and Saturday only 10am–4pm PE31 7LU 01485 541188

The Walks, a recently renovated 17th century park which holds the title of the last complete Georgian walk in Norfolk.

At the King’s Lynn Arts Centre, with a wide-range of year-round events at the Guildhall Theatre and creative workshops.

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BRITAIN’S

BIGGEST

BEER SHOP Beers of Europe Ltd is a family owned company started in the millennium year with a focus on quality beer from the UK and Europe, instead of mass produced beers which then and to a lesser extent now dominated the market. We now stock over 2,000 different craft beers real ales, ciders and lagers from all over the world.

We keep over 600 British beers ales stouts etc, 600 Belgian beers, over 300 German, 300 from the USA and hundreds of others from around the world.

Our Spirits range includes over 300 Whiskies, 150 Rums, 100 gins over 200 Vodkas and hundreds of rare and unusual Liqueurs other spirits, Wines, Ports, Madeiras etc.

Our shop and warehouse occupy some 25,000 square feet.

We have a full online ordering service with next-working-day delivery and the shop is open seven days a week for personal callers.

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.00am – 6.00pm. Sundays and bank holidays 10.00am – 4.00pm.

Garage Lane, Setchey, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 0BE. 3 miles South of Kings Lynn just off the A10 in Setchey.

Telephone: 01553 812000 sales@beersofeurope.co.uk

www.beersofeurope.co.uk

Hunstanton The nickname of Sunny Hunny sums up this family-friendly West Norfolk seaside town.

HISTORY Hunstanton is an elegant seaside resort with a history of attracting royal visitors. A short trip along the coast takes you to Holme-next-the-Sea, where the incredible 4,000-year-old Seahenge was discovered, and where the coastal path meets the prehistoric Peddars Way. MARKET DAYS Hunstanton has a Sunday market THINGS TO DO AND SEE The coast here is best-known for its dramatic, striped cliffs, made of red and white lime, layered on top of rust-brown sandstone. You will notice many of the houses in the area also

have this rusty hue. Hunstanton is also famous for its climate. It really is sunny as the locals would have it, and it is one of the driest places in the country – facing west so the sunsets are especially beautiful.

Hunstanton is the starting point for the invigorating Norfolk Coastal Path that runs all the way to Cromer, around 40 miles away, and is a stunning place for a family walk.

The town offers everything you could want for a traditional English family holiday, with fairground rides, quality fish and chips and ice cream.

Children will love a visit to the Sea Life Sanctuary, where they can see otters, seals and sharks among other species.

If you happen to be in town in August, visit the annual lawn tennis week that has been running since the 1920’s.

Also nearby is Caley Mill, at Heacham, home of the famous Norfolk lavender, whose fields in season are really impressive. They also sell a wide range of lavender products for the home and body that make great souvenirs.

HOTSPOT The Ancient Mariner Inn, PE36 6JJ Wells Deli, PE36 6BJ

best of RECOMMENDS GAZE

EAT

RIDE

At the spectacular sunsets as Hunstanton is the only west-facing resort on the east coast, creating unique and striking views.

Handmade Hunstanton ice cream – perfect when enjoyed on the patio overlooking the sea.

Rainbow park fairground rides for adults and children, continuing a Hunstanton tradition from the 1880’s.

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The Complete Coastal Retreat A charming 16th Century Grade II listed Country House Hotel on the North West Norfolk coastline, nestled in a peaceful parkland location close to the Victorian Seaside Resort of Hunstanton, the beautiful beaches of the North Norfolk coastline and the Royal Sandringham Estate.

Heacham Manor is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding coast and countryside of North and West Norfolk.

Many of the most wonderful treasures of Norfolk are on the doorstep, including Sandringham Estate, The Norfolk retreat of HM The Queen, the new country home for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Anmer Hall, Holkham Hall and Houghton Hall.

Norfolk Lavender is in the same village and some of the best wildlife reserves in the country and the breathtaking sandy beaches of North Norfolk are only a few minutes’ drive away.

Nearby are many quaint villages with their historic charms and the hotel could not be much closer to the famous Norfolk Coastal Path and Peddars Way National Trail.

Heacham Manor at a glance: • 45 Luxury bedrooms, including 2 Disabled-Friendly Bedrooms and 4 Dog-Friendly Bedrooms • AA Rosette Restaurant with glorious panoramic views • A superb 18 hole Golf Course “Heacham Manor Golf Club is Norfolk’s most exciting new club” – English Club Golfer, March 2014

• New Golf Bar and Changing Rooms • A romantic Wedding Venue licenced for Civil Ceremonies • The Corporate Preferred Programme, dedicated to the needs of businesses with special packages for accommodation, meetings & events and corporate golf

• The Mulberry Retreat for a wide range of beauty treatments, alternative therapies and experience packages • Beautifully manicured tranquil gardens

For more information, please visit www.heacham-manor.co.uk, call 01485 536 030 or email info@heacham-manor.co.uk

HOUGHTON HALL

Houghton Hall, the hidden jewel of north-west Norfolk, is one of the finest Palladian Houses in this country. Built

by Sir Robert Walpole in the 1720s, the superbly designed building with its lavish furnishings of the staterooms, designed by William Kent, reflect Walpole’s status as Britain’s first Prime Minister. Visitors can step back in time and enjoy Houghton much as it would have been in Walpole’s day. The Hall is surrounded by parkland, home to a herd of white fallow and exotic deer.

In May the park is the setting for the Houghton International Horse Trials.

Contemporary Sculptures in the gardens include works by James Turrell – Skyspace 2006; Richard Long’s Full Moon Circle; ­­­­­­­­­Stephen Cox has two different sculptures on view – Interior Space in the woods, and Flask II in the south loggia; Anya Gallaccio has designed The Sybil Hedge based on the signature of the late Lady Cholmondeley, who lived at Houghton

for 60 years; the latest installation is by Zhang Wang entitled Scholar Rock 85.

The Stable Square houses The Model Soldier Collection, one of the finest and largest private collections in the world, with 20,000 models displayed in the various famous battle formations. The Restaurant, provides morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. There is a wellstocked Gift Shop. The Stable building reflects the elegant age of riding and coach-horses.

The award-winning five-acre Walled Garden, is laid out into ‘garden areas’ divided by trimmed yew hedges.

A stunning 120-yard double herbaceous border runs through the centre of the garden. The Rose Parterre, with more than 150 varieties of English roses, kitchen garden, fountains, including Waterflame

by Jeppe Hein, statues, glasshouse and rustic temple, make a visit to this garden a most relaxing and enjoyable experience.

HOUGHTON INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS 26th - 29st May 2016 Houghton Hall, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6UE. Email: info@houghtonhall.com. Please refer to website for 2016 opening dates and admission rates, www.houghtonhall.com or telephone 01485 528569.

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Antique Auctions & Fairs

NORWICH

PRIVATE DEALERS

Norfolk Showground Antique and Collectors Fair

Norfolk Showground.

Circa 1900 is an on-line antiques gallery specialising in the decorative arts period of 1880 to 1950, check the website for details, stock can also be can be viewed online or by appointment near Norwich

27 March, 16 July, 29 October

circa-1900.co.uk

The county’s largest event with over 500 inside and outside stands spread over the

Norwich

THE MAIN AUCTIONS HOUSES

NR5 0TT

Townsend Auction Galleries in Beeston - hold bi-weekly antiques, collectibles & interiors sales together with regular specialist toy, collectibles, fine art and classic car sales.

norfolkshowground.rnaa.org.uk Norwich, also has a collection of 30 dealers in a redundant church located in the Norwich lanes area. St Gregory’s antiques & collectibles offer an eclectic mix of stock and are open seven days a week st-gregorys-antiques.co.uk

townsend-auctions.co.uk James Beck hold weekly auctions of antique & household furniture, art and collectables in Fakenham

Pop Up Antique & Collectors Fairs throughout the year at Bircham, Blakeney, Cromer, Dunston Hall, Horsham St. Faiths, Loddon and Holt Antiques & Interiors Vintage Fair.

jamesbeckauctions.co.uk

Check the website for dates and opening times

keysauctions.co.uk

antiques-atlas.com

Keys Fine Art Auctioneers have a weekly sale in addition to special, books, picture and antique specialist sales based in Aylsham The Diss Auction Rooms, weekly sales plus 20 special category Saturday sales, in addition to diverse specialist auctions twgaze.co.uk/auction/ diss-auction-rooms/ Acle Salesrooms hold weekly country and specialist auctions horners.co.uk

Grove Farm antiques can be visited by appointment at Syderstone but you can get a flavour of their stock online too. grovefarmantiques.co.uk ONLINE SHOPS Check out the current stock online at Stalham Antiques Gallery. Alternatively you can pop into the shop to browse. mikehicksantiques.co.uk Acle Antiques hold dining room, lounge furniture and a large selection of occasional pieces from the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian periods.

View online and in Acle. acleantiques.co.uk Honeycombe Antiques in Harleston have a wide range of antiques available well worth a rummage online to get a feel for the quality and range of stock. honeycombeantiques.com

Landles Auctioneers 1856 in King’s Lynn hold general house clearance, antiques & collectibles auctions

Arts & Crafts Antiques clean modern website with good visuals of the stock.

Or visit the shop at 31-35 Elm Hill Norwich NR3 1HG

landlesauctioneers1856.co.uk

artsandcraftantiques.co.uk

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Sandringham

STATELY HOMES & GARDENS Norfolk is an area replete with grand houses, stately homes and gardens.

SANDRINGHAM The most famous stately home in Norfolk, Sandringham is the muchloved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen. A visit here transports you into the world of the Royal Family, reflecting as it does many of their personal interests – in farming, shooting, horses and cars.

There are 274 rooms filled with treasures, and over 60 acres of gardens. On a tractor tour or woodland walk through the country park you will even glimpse Park House, the birthplace of Princess Diana.

BLICKLING HALL

the imposing Georgian Drawing Room and Gothic-style library, then investigate the kitchen, with its collection of beautiful kitchen implements and shining array of copperware.

HOLKHAM HALL A classic 18th century Palladianstyle mansion. Situated in a 3,000 acre deer park on the beautiful north Norfolk coast, it is part of a great agricultural estate. Attractions include: Bygones Museum, an evocative collection of over 4,000 items and Holkham Pottery, as well as The Victoria Hotel. Holkham Beach and Nature Reserve are minutes away from this truly stunning stately home.

Built in the early 17th century, Blickling is one of England’s great Jacobean houses. The spectacular Long Gallery houses one of the finest private collections of rare books in England, and you can view fine Mortlake tapestries, intricate plasterwork ceilings, an excellent collection of furniture and paintings, as well as the newly restored 19th-century Hungerford Pollen painted ceiling.

OXBURGH HALL

FELBRIGG HALL

EAST RUSTON OLD VICARAGE

Felbrigg was built both before and after the English Civil War, and behind the sumptuous Stuart architecture lies a fascinating history. Explore

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Oxburgh’s secret doors and priest’s hole make this a house of mystery and history. Step back in time through the magnificent Tudor gatehouse into the dangerous world of Tudor politics.

Panoramic views from the roof look out over the Victorian French parterre, walled orchard, kitchen garden and a Catholic chapel.

One of the most remarkable and enjoyable gardens made in recent years. Created by Alan Gray and

Graham Robeson. It is a feast of formal design, and decorative exuberance. Sculptures, lavishly planted pots and finely detailed walls and gates also play their decorative part. If you are any form of garden lover this will definitely be worth the visit.

SHERINGHAM PARK With fabulous displays of rhododendrons and azaleas from mid May to June and viewing towers providing amazing views, Sheringham Park is one of the finest examples of the work of Humphry Repton. Discover more about this famous landscape gardener in the exhibition, look around the shop and sample local, seasonal food from the courtyard kiosk. Discover some rare and unusual trees on the ‘Tree Trail’.

WALPOLE WATER GARDENS Designed and landscaped by the Norfolk born artist Peter Cousins, Walpole Water Gardens offers its visitors over 20 kinds of eucalyptus, as well as palms, bananas and grasses, black swans, ornamental ducks and koi carp. With an exotic feel all year round, you can take a guided tour of the gardens, or simply sit back and relax in these peaceful surroundings.

SOMERLEYTON Get lost in the Somerleyton Hall maze just over the Suffolk border … and no, it’s not good form to leave a trail of breadcrumbs behind you! The maze, made of yew hedge, was built in 1846 and is a highlight of the 12 acre gardens. The Victorian stately mansion, built in Anglo-Italian style with lavish architectural features and magnificent carved stonework is pretty impressive too!

PRIORY MAZE & GARDENS This maze is unlike any other as its design is based on the ruins of the adjacent Beeston Priory. As it’s not symmetrical, there is no middle- see if you can find the viewing platform for a birds eye view! The series of paths are sure to provide exploration and enjoyment as you try to find the exit.

Once you’ve succeeded there are ten acres of gardens to explore.

PENSTHORPE NATURAL PARK Home to three spectacular gardens, Pensthorpe Natural Park offers a great fusion of the cultivated and the natural.

ROOMS

At the Millennium Garden you’ll find an acre of floral delights, creating a lush tapestry of colour and texture.

Enjoy spotting all sorts of creatures in the beautiful water-focused Wildlife Habitat Garden, before strolling through one of the largest wildflower meadows in North Norfolk.

BRESSINGHAM STEAM & GARDENS The appropriately named Bloom family have been gradually expanding these vibrant gardens for over 50 years, and the results are spectacular.

The renowned perennial plantsman Alan Bloom, collected plants from all over Europe, gathering nearly 5,000 different species and varieties, making this an important as well as a beautiful historical collection. Be sure to take a packed lunch to the fragrant picnic area.

RAVENINGHAM GARDENS These archaic gardens are set out according to the original Edwardian plans with large herbaceous borders surrounding the Victorian walled kitchen garden. This was recently brought back to full working order and is now producing fruit and

R E S TA U R A N T

GARDENS

vegetables for the House. A new garden based on Francis Bacon’s essays on the passage of time is perfect for a pensive walk.

THE GOODERSTONE WATER GARDENS Located in West Norfolk just outside of Swaffham, these water gardens are a peaceful aquatic paradise. The network of waterways and ponds includes thirteen bridges and even a natural trout stream. It is the creation of farmer Billy Knights, who came up with the idea once the damp meadow became too wet for his cattle to graze- at the ripe old age of 70!

HINDRINGHAM HALL GARDENS The most striking feature of these gardens is the moat surrounding the property, which dates from 1100 and, along with the stream and adjacent fish ponds, has been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It is one of only a handful of complete moats in Norfolk. Open to the public on Wednesdays and Sundays during the summer.

WEDDINGS

N A R B O RO U G H H A L LG A R D E N S.CO M 01760339923

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WAVENEY VALLEY The Waveney forms the county boundary between Norfolk and Suffolk and flows 59 miles (95km) from its source at Redgrave to the sea at Great Yarmouth. It is a classic lowland river,slow flowing and meandering until it becomes tidal whence it changes character and becomes part of the Southern Broads. Joining the River Yare, the Waveney becomes Breydon Water and forms a magnificent esturine landscape before flowing the final length to the North Sea. The river is at the heart of a valley which offers an enticing area for recreational activities. Some involve the river itself; some are focused on the structures and heritage built over many centuries. Travel slowly and tarry awhile. Visitors are entranced by the quiet stillness and see the natural beauty as a reason for exploring.

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BRESSINGHAM A unique day out for all the family

For where else would you be able to ride on a Victorian roundabout, indulge a passion for all things steamdriven, wallow in nostalgia for one of television’s best-loved comedies and glory in gardens that offer a glimpse of horticultural heaven?

Add a couple of railways running around and across the site, a genuine old signal box, a museum, restaurant and picnic place, and the mix soon promises something for everyone, young and old alike.

Privately owned by the Bloom family.

Adrian Bloom and his father Alan each created a six acre garden, the Dell and Foggy Bottom. Together with the

other linking gardens, there are now over 8,000 species and varieties on display. Alan Blooms’s other passion – for steam led to Bressingham becoming home to a fine collection of traction engines and locomotives.

The Dad’s Army Collection is another piece of serendipity. Some of Bressingham’s vehicles were used in the much-loved sitcom when it was filmed around Thetford. Bressingham has extended the wartime spirit by recreating Walmington-on-Sea in its museum. Situated close to the town of Diss, Bressingham’s main season runs from Easter to the end of October, with steam and non-steam days throughout.

There is also a special events programme running throughout the summer. Visitors can ride through the glorious gardens on one of the four working railways or step back in time on the working Victorian steam carousel ‘the Gallopers’, the beautiful painted horses that eternally travel ‘ up and down’ and three-abreast around Bressingham’s restored steam carousel.

There is always something for all the family at Bressingham. You can even stay as a bed-and-breakfast guest in Alan Bloom’s old home of Bressingham Hall. Or failing that, take home a Bloom’s bloom from the adjacent garden centre.

Bressingham Steam Museum & Gardens, Low Road, Bressingham, Diss IP22 2AA. Telephone: 01379 686900 For more details visit www.bressingham.co.uk or www.bressinghamgardens.com

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Walking in the Waveney Valley The River Waveney forms the county boundary between Norfolk and Suffolk and flows 59 miles from its source at Redgrave to the sea at Great Yarmouth.

It is a stunning location, best enjoyed on a long bracing walk.

Between Diss and Bungay the river is typical of an English lowland river with mostly gentle currents. It is a classic lowland river, slow flowing and meandering until it becomes part of the Southern Broads. From Ellingham, east of Bungay, the river becomes tidal and gradually wider, deeper and more powerful.

From Beccles eastwards the valley is much broader with large areas of grazing marsh. Joining the River Yare, the Waveney becomes Breydon Water and forms a magnificent esturine landscape before flowing the final length to the North Sea. The waterway is navigable by larger craft from Geldeston to the sea.

The river is at the heart of a valley which offers an enticing area for recreational activities, especially long meandering walks.

Walking is one of the best ways to experience the varied landscape and history of this delightful valley.

Although the geography of the valley is gentle, you will enjoy some surprisingly attractive views and varied landscapes which belie the reputation that Norfolk and Suffolk have for flatness and prairie like arable farming.

Along the way you’ll encounter historic buildings and villages that pay testimony to the importance and wealth during the medieval period of East Anglia.

A variety of walk routes can be found on the Waveney Trust’s website, arranged in order from the River’s source west of Diss to its confluence with the River Yare at Breydon Water in the east. All of the walks are circular and of short to medium length. You can download and print an outline map for each route, making for a stressfree stroll.

During the winter months be sure to take waterproof walking boots as the walks can be wet and muddy in places. Self guided walks in any Waveney Valley town are great on drizzly days, where you can discover great heritage while keeping your feet dry.

riverwaveneytrust.org

nd Tum ble® u ff A R

www.BECCLESLIDO.com 01502 713297

THE COAT OPENULTIMATE 23rd MAY DOG TO 6thDRYING SEPTEMBER

Heated thickness cotton towelling dog Double

Slidecoats. Sofa throws. Dog bed covers. drying Spring board colours and all sizes.

Five practical Giant inflatable Lane swimming Hot & cold snacks, drinks, ice creams Disabled access (please call for details) Canoe Hire (www.thecanoeman.com) Moorings

We are in the market town of Beccles on Puddingmoor - NR34 9PL Big Dog Ferry runs between the Lido and the Locks Inn, Geldeston. A relaxing 40 minute trip along the River Waveney with the opportunity to enjoy the wildlife enroute and a meal and drink at the Locks Order by phone, onlineForor pay& timetable us bookings Inn, or stay on board for a round trip. contact Big Dog visit! (by appointment only) on Up to 5areturn trips daily 07532 072761 03332 079960 or visit Big Dog at Charters available w w w.highly r u ff a n dt umb led o gwww.bigdogferry.co.uk co at s .co m Booking recommended

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Ruff and Tumble

- Dog Drying Coats

Ruff & Tumble dog drying coats are a unique and stylish solution to eliminating the back breaking drying of wet/muddy dogs whilst also preventing the mess in the home and car. They also offer a practical way to ensure that your dog, whatever it’s size, remains warm throughout the Winter months and cool and refreshed during the Summer (simply soak in cold water!).

Ruff & Tumble dog drying coats are a unique and stylish The coats are made from highly durable, double-thickness cotton solution eliminating thesoft back of They wet/are towelling,towhich makes them andbreaking incredibly drying absorbent. muddy dogs also preventing the inthe thehead home extremely easywhilst to put on your dog - simply putmess on over theycar. are designed with a cosy neck collarway and a tummy strap, and They also offer a practical towide ensure that your which fastens with movement and comfort dog, whatever it’sVelcro size,ensuring remainsmaximum warm throughout the Winter - ideal for both domestic and working dogs. months and cool and refreshed during the Summer (simply soak in cold water!).

The coats are made from highly durable, double-thickness cotton towelling, which makes them soft and incredibly absorbent. They are extremely easy to put on your dog - simply put on over the head - they are designed with a cosy neck collar and a wide tummy strap, which fastens with Velcro ensuring maximum movement and comfort - ideal for both domestic and working dogs.

These multi-purpose coats are available in These coats in sizes to fit all breeds and sizes tomulti-purpose fit all breeds andare 5 available stylish colours: 5 stylish colours: Brick Red, Bottle Green, Black, Mink and Brick Red, Bottle Green, Black, Mink and Sandringham Blue - coats Sandringham Blue - coats can alsospecial be touch. can also be personalised for that extra personalised for that extra special touch.

Also available from Ruff and Tumble: Also available from Ruff and Tumble: Fitted dog covers Fitted towelling towelling dog bedbed covers and sofa throws. and sofa throws. www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

DPS correct sizing_Layout 1 16/06/2015 06:38 Page 1

The Oaksmere Hotel is set within seventeen acres of grounds and situated at the heart of East Anglia with easy access to the whole region. The A140 and A143 brings Norwich, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds the Broads and the Sufffolk Heritage coastline within easy reach.

Dating back to 1574, the hotel was fully refurbished in 2014 and offers a contemporary style and atmosphere of modern elegance within the beautiful listed building.

The fourteen individual boutique bedrooms are fitted with the latest technology. Each room is different; ten rooms are within the main building while four Coach House rooms overlook the kitchen garden, two have private terraces and are ideal for families: one room is fully equipped for wheelchair users.

Open every day of the year, dining is available in either the traditional Tudor pub around a warming log fire in the winter or a la carte in the

stylish restaurant, where chefs produce fine quality cuisine throughout, utilising the best locally sourced produce.

In summer months you can dine alfresco on the extensive sun-trap terrace created by Chelsea Gold Medal winning designer, Thomas Hoblyn. Outdoor barbeques are hosted where you can relax on the lawns whilst children can play on the magnificent pirate ship treehouse ‘The Jolly Conkerer’.

Wine | Dine| Recline Rectory Road, Brome, Eye, Suffolk IP23 8AH 01379 873940 info@theoaksmere.com www.theoaksmere.com

165 thebest bestof SUFFOLK NORFOLK 117 the

across the region SUFFOLK

Framlingham Castle

Just across the Norfolk border lies Suffolk. A bustling county that offers great days out and delivers ideas a plenty for family adventures.

KENTWELL HALL Kentwell Hall has been the leader in large-scale domestic living history since 1979. Visitors can enjoy re-creations of many aspects of Tudor life on selected weekends including those of the Great Annual Re-Creation in June/July and over Bank Holidays.

CO10 9BA kentwell.co.uk

SUTTON HOO The undisturbed ship burial site that dates back to a time when East Anglia was a vital link in the Scandinavian network of Denmark.

IP12 3DJ nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo

Did you know?

Dodie Smith’s ‘The Hundred and One Dalmations’ is partly set in Withermarsh Green in Suffolk.

DANCE EAST DanceEast lets you go one step farther and become a dancer for a day. No matter what your age or training, DanceEast provides classes for a variety of different skills and dance genres. If you would rather be a spectator than join in there are a variety of performances available.

IP4 1DW danceeast.co.uk

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SHAKESPEARE IN THE FOREST Every Summer, the independent theatre company Red Rose Chain creates highly original and accessible Shakespeare’s plays at Jimmy’s Farm.

A guaranteed open air hit with families.

IP9 ZAR redrosechain.com ALDEBURGH FESTIVAL Benjamin Britten is inextricably linked with Aldeburgh. He not only lived most of his life there but also created the Aldeburgh Festival and initiated Snape Maltings Concert Hall, now run

by Aldeburgh Music (aldeburgh.co.uk).

Visit the Red House, where Britten and Peter Pears lived from 1957; visitors will be able to visit the composer’s studio, learn about his life and work in a major new exhibition, and browse his amazing archive.

IP15 5PZ brittenpears.org THOMAS GAINSBOROUGH Thomas Gainsborough was astonishingly successful in his time, contributing to the rise in middle class domestic portraiture by replacing stiff, formal poses with scenes of affection and intimacy. The birthplace of this great artist on Gainsborough Street in Sudbury is open to the public, and displays the largest collection of his work in Britain. A fascinating array of paintings that beautifully illustrate bourgeois society.

MAY

C10 2EU

Hightide Festival

gainsborough.org

JUNE

FESTIVALS

Aldeburgh Festival JULY Jimmy’s Sausage & Newmarket Festival | Beer Festival | Latitude Festival AUGUST Snape Proms | Aldeburgh Carnival & Regatta | Peasenhall Pea Festival LATE SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival OCTOBER Flipside Festival NOVEMBER Aldeburgh Poetry Festival | Ways With Words | Southwold Literature Festival

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Gerald Weir Furniture If you are in search of some furniture which is very specific to your needs, commissioning a bespoke piece from Gerald Weir Furniture is simpler than you might envisage.

These examples of recent commissions undoubtedly reflect the sheer beauty in the wood, the elegance of the designs and the exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

This table and pair of benches were commissioned by a local family who were a dream to work with, they knew exactly what they wanted in terms of design, along with our guidance on the materials and finishes, collectively we created a truly stunning ensemble, made in oak with cast brass embellishments.

Here is what the client had to say -

“

Our bespoke table and benches from Gerald Weir have arrived and are perfect.

We have worked closely with Louise, Mark and Ian on the design, dimensions and materials from start to finish

and it has been a pleasure to see our ideas materialise into a beautiful, handmade piece of furniture that will last for many years. Our brief was complex, requiring precision and brass work - the

decisions taken through the process were all made with Ian, clearly a craftsman who has keen attention to detail, proportions and design. The table looks like it has always been in our home.

Unit One, Sun Wharf, Deben Road, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1AZ 01394 610900 info@geraldweir.com

geraldweir.com 168 the best of NORFOLK

�

This striking heavy weight was 72” in diameter. Commissioned for a large room for special occasions. To achieve the eye catching grey finish, it was carefully “fumed”. A process which gradually darkens the wood by sealing it in a chamber containing a pot of ammonia. Interestingly “fuming” was apparently an accidental discovery during the 19th century when oak boards stored in a stable had turned noticeably darker. This was caused by the ammonia fumes from the horse’s urine. We then added a touch of lime wax to the finish to give it a worn relaxed look.

This solid walnut table was partly inspired by the late George Nakashima, a Japanese American furniture designer, with its distinctive natural waney edge. Using the unique contours of the tree along all edges, cut from selected walnut and crafted carefully to make the most of its natural beauty.

Inlaid by hand with contemporary brushed steel butterflies along the joints in the table top and a mixture of steel embellishments on the base of the table.

At Gerald Weir Furniture you can also choose from a range of furniture also hand crafted and made especially for your room in terms of size and finish. Call for this brochure or download and flick through it on geraldweir. com. Many items are available to see at the showroom which is next to the river Deben, walking distance from the wonderful town of Woodbridge, Suffolk.

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FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE Increasing numbers of families in and around London are looking outside the capital for their children’s education.

The relentless focus on academic league tables is taking its toll on families who want their children to be defined by more than their examination grades.

Many are looking to weekly and full boarding options in the east. If you ask anyone which school is leading the way in the area, it won’t be long before Framlingham College is mentioned. Recent years have seen this remarkable school emerge as one of the real quality independent schools in the East of England. Set in stunning surroundings in the market town of Framlingham, the school is absolutely thriving and prides itself on producing well-rounded, decent, articulate and very well-educated young men and women.

Framlingham is a strikingly modern and forward-looking

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school where emphasis is placed on educating the whole person and not just the examination candidate.

The school embraces a wide range of abilities, believing that breadth and diversity builds a richer environment, and every pupil has a role to play in the community. The teaching is excellent, and success at Oxbridge and – increasingly – American universities shows that the brightest student will do as well here as anywhere.

The strong focus on pastoral care and the individual management of pupils combines with an extraordinarily rich, varied and successful range of co-curricular activities to make this school a vibrant, outwardlooking and dynamic community.

The year 2014/15 alone has seen seven boys and girls achieving national sporting honours – two gaining scholarships at leading music conservatoires; a show at the Edinburgh Fringe; and our U14 boys becoming national hockey champions (and both U14 and U18 girls also qualifying for the national finals).

The headmaster, Paul Taylor, is most interested in producing “rounded and grounded human beings.” He insists that no pupil should place a ceiling on their aspirations: “At Framlingham we encourage our pupils to open their minds, to aim high in all they do, and to make the most of the opportunities available to them.” A recent ISI inspection described Framlingham as “a school where good is no longer good enough.”

That says it all really.

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE boarding & day school (2½-18)

Where education is about more than just exam results

framcollege.co.uk

Contact Emma Rutterford for a private visit: admissions@framcollege.co.uk

Ufford Park Hotel, Golf and Spa Nestled in the heart of Suffolk, Ufford Park Woodbridge has been owned and run by the Aldous family since opening for trade in 1992.

Set in 120 acres of historic parkland and located just off the A12, this 90-bedroom hotel, golf and spa is the ideal base for exploring Suffolk’s beautiful countryside. Offering a fantastic array of onsite facilities, the hotel is also ideally located close to Sutton Hoo, Rendlesham Forest, Framlingham and Orford Castle and a short drive away from the coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold.

Ufford Park golf course is an award winning, ‘Top Winter’ 18 hole, par 71 course and is generally regarded as an enjoyable, yet stern test of golf. It has a unique two-storey floodlit driving range with heated bays ensuring year round use. There is a small fleet of golf buggies available to hire, as well as an AmericanGolf Superstore for a huge range of modern equipment, clothing and accessories.

Ufford Park Spa is the ideal destination for anyone looking to relax, revitalise

or restore – couples seeking quality time together, groups wishing to enjoy themselves or purely to treat yourself, this is the place to be. The Thermal Suite is based on the ancient ritual of bathing. The body is treated using a series of heat and cooling experiences.

It guides your body through a sensory journey with the ultimate aim of inducing deep relaxation.

Our highly trained beauty therapists provide treatments and have access to great range of high quality products, and are therefore able to give you the experience you deserve.

Membership and spa gift vouchers are available all year round, so why not treat yourself or someone special. For more information about the range of facilities and treatments, please visit our website www.uffordpark.co.uk/spa

Hotel, Golf and Spa has everything you could need. The hotel boasts conference and event facilities, and offers 90 well-appointed en-suite bedrooms, many with balconies overlooking stunning parkland. There is a spacious bar area where residents and non-residents are able to relax throughout the day or in the evening with friends and family over a coffee or drink from the bar.

Enjoy a delicious meal in the bar or The Park Restaurant whilst enjoying beautiful views across the golf course.

There is a varied menu offering the very best locally produced food.

Parking and Wi-Fi is FREE to residents and non-residents.

Call 0844 847 9409 for more information or to book. uffordpark.co.uk

With our comfortable and relaxing environment, Ufford Park Woodbridge

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U F F O R D PA R K H E A LT H & S P A WHERE IT IS ALL AB OUT YOU Looking to relax, revitalise and restore?

Then contact our highly trained beauty therapists who look forward to welcoming you and helping you get the most out of your visit.

Luxury Thermal Suite with Hydro Pool, Mineral Grotto, Foot Spas, Aroma Steam Room, Soft Sauna, Feature Showers, Relaxation Zone & Ice Fountain.

Spa Experiences from £20 per person.

Residential Spa Breaks from £93.50 per person.

Open 7 days a week.

Open 7 days a week Members & non-members welcome

Gift vouchers available.

t

0844 847 9409

w www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW

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Opening Up A World Of Opportunities Excellent Results Extensive Bus Routes From 4 - 18 years 01394 615041 www.woodbridge.suffolk.sch.uk A PART OF THE SECKFORD FOUNDATION. REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 1110964

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The Blakeney Cottage Company

EAT DRINK SLEEP

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LIST OF ADVERTISERS Attractions

Craft Galleries

Beccles Lido 80 Broads Tours 143 Bressingham 163 Creake Abbey 32 Farmer Fred’s Playbarn 81 94 Go Ape Houghton Hall 158 132 Maddermarket Theatre Narborough Hall 161 Norwich Cathedral 125 Norfolk Food & Drink Festival 109 Pensthorpe 71 Somerleyton 148 Temples Seal Trips 43 Wroxham Barns 141

Alby Crafts & Gardens Bluejacket Workshop The Garden House Gallery The Handcrafted Company

Deli Cafés & Tearooms Blakeney Deli Deepdale Café Eric’s fish & chips Folly Tearoom Stiffkey Stores

47, 120 27 18 56 49

Department Stores & Shopping Book Hive 124, 127 60 Bakers & Larners Dalegate Market 26 Jarrold 2 Roys of Wroxham 141

Fashion Anna 34 30 Collen & Clare Kaddouri 57 Morston Town & Country 54 Nicholsons 61 Nelle DK 19

Food & Drink Algy’s Farm Shop 120 Back to the Garden 118 Beers of Europe 155 Farm to Fork and Fish 120 Gurneys 19 Humbleyard Vineyard 120 The Sugared Rose Cake Company 56 Tea Caddy 57

146 43 88 45

Fine Art Galleries Adrian Hill Bircham Gallery Fairfax Gallery The Flint Gallery Gallery Plus Quay Art

64, 65 64, 67 64 45, 66, 67 62, 67 45, 62, 63

Holiday Accommodation Barefoot Retreats 78 Blakeney Boltholes 47, 48 Blakeney Cottage Company 47, 82 Blakeney House 47 The Carrick Estate 107 88 Cromer Country Club Destinations 51 The Dial House 106 Kett Country Cottages 84 Manor House Farm 105 51 Old Town Hall Norfolk Coast Holiday Cottages 25 Norfolk Country Cottages 74 Sowerbys 73

Homes & Interiors Bedfords IBC Birdie Fortescue 33 Blyth & Wright 92 Gerald Weir Furniture 168 Hopkins Homes 1 Joyful Living 19 Mulberry Kitchen Studios 133

124, 132 15 113, 137 13 42, 117 165 114 100, 116 172 87 21, 112

Jewellery Francis Wain Winsor Bishop

IFC 128, 129 BC

Leisure, Clothing & Gifts The Anchor Shop 47, 48 Bells & Whistles 18 Gallyons 132 45 Crab Clothing Glory Days 56 27 Gone Crabbing Tatty Tides 57

Outdoors Bawdeswell Garden Centre 106 Hilltop Outdoor Centre 80 The Kit Bag 88 The One Stop nature Shop 27 Norfolk Broads Direct 142 Norfolk etc 43 Ruff and Tumble 164 Tilley 91

Pubs & Inns The Anchor Inn The Orange Tree The Stiffkey Red Lion

43, 121 17, 111 49

Removals

Hotels & Restaurants Briarfields Beechwood Hotel Benedicts The Boathouse Congham Hall The Crown Hotel The Dabbling Duck The Globe Inn The Gunton Arms Heacham Manor The Hoste

The Library Restaurant The Lodge Ingham Swan Le Strange Arms Hotel Morston Hall The Oaksmere The Ship Hotel Strattons Hotel Ufford Park Hotel Virginia Court Hotel Titchwell Manor

23, 112 116, 145 117 139 113 39, 114 115 37 115 157 111

Abels 176

Schools Framlingham College 170 Greshams 58 Woodbridge School 173

Weddings Brasted’s 130 Langley Abbey 131 Sussex Barn 33 Cley Windmill 51

OPENING DOORS FOR YOUR BUSINESS The Best of Norfolk is an annual guide personalised for the leading hotels, accommodation providers and retailers across Norfolk.

Each venue receives their own edition available to guests and clients.

It is distributed to numerous boutique hotels, B&Bs, holiday lets and available to buy via amazon.co.uk the best of NORFOLK 175

THE ART OF MOVING UK RESIDENTIAL, EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS

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The definition of quality, service and attention to detail.

• UK Residential Removals • Worldwide Relocations • Weekly European Removals • Storage Services • Car Transportation & Storage • Office & Commercial Moving • Antiques, Fine Art Packing, Storing & Moving Telephone: 01603 859802 E-Mail: enquiries@abels.co.uk www.abels.co.uk

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Known for bringing the right people through the door.

For professional marketing advice or help finding the perfect home, please call our Burnham Market office on 01328 730 500. www.bedfords.co.uk