Uniquely Away Issue 1 - Summer 2012

Launch Issue | Summer 2012

Uniquely Devoted to exclusive holidays,leisure and experience inNorfolk and North Suffolk

AWAY

Escape to North NorfolkWin three nights in a luxury hotel

Discover secluded SuffolkBeaches of quiet beauty

Creative thinkingFamous faces and inspiring artists

D E S I G N E R J E W E L L E R Y

AURUM

A n

E n g a g i n g P r o p o s i t i o n

B e d f o r d S T - N o r w i c h - N R 2 1 A R

e n q u i r i e s @ a u r u m d e s i g n . c o . u k

a u r u m d e s i g n . c o . u k / / 0 1 6 0 3 6 2 0 7 4 1

4 UNIQUELY AWAY SUMMER 2012

Welcome to our launch issue of

This is the very first publication from Uniquely Magazines and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we have enjoyed bringing it to you.

Uniquely Magazines was born after a group of professional writers,photographers, designers and editorial specialists began to discussbringing out niche publications with a strong emphasis onphotography and design, as well as content.

We wanted to create magazines that were beautiful to look at, as wellas interesting and informative to read.

Uniquely Away displays all that is best about Norfolk and NorthSuffolk’s exclusive holiday market. It aims to show visitors just howbeautiful this area is and to suggest an array of exquisite places toenjoy once here.

This very first summer issue focuses on the popular seaside town of Southwold, as well as Cley, on the North Norfolk coast.

It highlights art galleries and exhibitions, and hotelsand restaurants, and introduces you to some of thosewho live and work in the area. We also have somewonderful competitions on our pages.

We hope you enjoy Uniquely Away and urge you to send us your suggestions, ideas and feedback,in time for our autumn issue.

[email protected]

The online version of Uniquely Away canbe viewed at www.uniquelymags.co.uk

The Away Team

EditorSheree [email protected]

Deputy editorKaren [email protected]

Creative photographerNick [email protected]

DesignerMark [email protected]

Feature writersAbigail SaltmarshMary WilliamsTess LittleSarah Sinclair

Sales and marketingMichelle Jackson [email protected] [email protected]

For information on advertising, sales orsponsorship in Uniquely Away or otherUniquely Magazines publications [email protected] or call 01603 929434

Uniquely Away is published by Uniquely MagazinesFerndale Centre1 Exeter StreetNR2 4QB

© AMS Editorial Services LtdCompany No. 07089976

About the editorSheree Hanna has a long career in journalism.

A former business editor, features editor and deputynews editor, she has worked on nine different UK titles.

Originally from East Anglia, she moved west andworked in Swansea, Bristol and Swindon beforereturning to the region in 2001 and setting up homein Norwich.

She is a prolific freelance writer and enjoys creativewriting as well.

Sheree loves the variety of life in Norfolk – from townand country to sea and broads. With her seven-year-olddaughter, she loves to explore the county’s delights.

About the photographerNick Read is highly experienced in lifestyle andmagazine work.

With more than 20 years behind the camera, he hasworked for clients ranging from Bentley, McLaren,Chrysler and Secma sports cars to the BBC, RadioTimes and United Emirates Air Lines.

Nick, who lives in Suffolk but travels abroad for hisphotography work, frequently carries out homeinteriors shoots and has worked for national glossymagazines such as House Beautiful and BBC GoodHomes, as well as exclusive homes estate agentsSavills, Fine and Fine and Country.

Other clients include design groups, advertisingagencies, TV production companies and property developers.

www.nickreadphotography.com

About the designerBased in Norwich since 2001, Mark Edwardsspecialises in graphic design, art direction and brand identity.

Mark has worked on a diverse selection of designprojects for a variety of clients including the BBC,TfL, L’Oréal Paris, NNF, Office Shoes, PWL Records,Superdrug, Hilfiger, Top Shop and Virgin Classics.

www.designed.co.uk

Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Co. using only paper from FSC/PEFC suppliers.www.magprint.co.uk Uniquely Away would like to thank the Holkham Estate for its kind permission to shoot at Wells-next-the-Sea

UniquelyAWAY

5UNIQUELY AWAY SUMMER 2012

Contents

Exclusive hotels

6Boutique unique The rise of the stylish hotel

11 Home and awayTV chef ChrisCouborough on Norfolklife and hotel style

15 Kiwi competition Win three nights in fashionable North Norfolk

Food and drink

18 All in good tasteNorfolk’s seasonalproduce

Art and artists

21Behind the cameraPhotographer Harry Cory Wright

25From Norwich to New DelhiArtist Alec Cumming

26 Galleries and glassExhibition spaces and artists

28Coastal displayThe Cley 12 exhibition

Out and about

31A day out…In Cley Next The Sea

36WaterworldThe Norfolk and Suffolk Broads

Escape to the country

39A new chapterChaucer Barn

42A view to a millWin two nights awayand a three course meal

46 Country convertsBarn breaks and ruralholiday homes

Exploring Suffolk

49Fantastic in fabricArtist Abigail Mill

50Something specialThe essence ofSouthwold

52 Life on a plate Ceramist Thea Cutting

56 Beauty and the beachSolitude on the sand

58 Off the beaten trackCountry walks

Past and present

62Hidden historyThe Pennoyer Centre

65A fine cityDiscover Norwich

70This sporting lifeInternational event rider Piggy French

72In the editor’s diaryA choice of events

77A glass of its ownCaithness Crystal atKing’s Lynn

78In the knowMelanie Cook

Chic bouti


An emphasis on individuality, exquisiteinteriors and character-filled spaces –boutique hotels aim to be chic as well as unique.

Recent years have seen the emergenceof more and more hotels and guesthouses that aim to provide anexperience with a difference.

Here in Norfolk and Suffolk there aresome superb examples of boutiqueaccommodation, where owners havemade a determined effort to move away from the unexceptional to offerspaces that are stylish, and breaks thatare all-embracing.

Exclusive hotels, such as those owned byThe Flying Kiwi Inns - including TheCrown Hotel, at Wells-next-the-Sea, andThe Ship Hotel, at Brancaster - as wellas Strattons, at Swaffham, have alsosuccessfully managed to combine thetrendy with the traditional.

Juliet Kinsman, editor in chief, at

boutique hotel specialists Mr & MrsSmith, says Strattons have featured in their guide book for nearly 10 years now.

“This quirky 14-room hotel was always adream for ‘weekend-awayers’ with itsfabulous food, individually decoratedboudoirs and eco conscience – buthaving recently added CoCoes deli, andnew rooms, to its delights, it is moreappealing than ever,” she says.

Director of Strattons, Hannah Scott,explains the hotel has just celebrated its22nd birthday and was therefore one ofthe pioneers of the boutique hotel.

“Boutique refers to small and that iswhat we are,” she explains. “The hotelwas also set up by my parents, who wentto art college, and all the rooms arecompletely different and feature lots of art work.

“There is a mixture of the old and thenew, along with an emphasis on quality.

People want a boutique hotel to becomfortable – a home from home – butthey are also looking for somethingluxurious, sumptuous and perhaps evena bit over the top.”

The emphasis on quality runs throughevery aspect of the boutique experience,agrees Clive Harvey, from GothicHouse, in Norwich. His guest house ismuch smaller but he still prides himselfon offering the city visitor a unique stay.

The Regency, Grade II listed propertysits right at the heart of one ofNorwich’s oldest quarters, and isthought to have been built in the early1800s, for former Mayor of NorwichBarnabas Leman.

Today guest bedrooms and the drawingroom still have a traditional feel,presenting an opulent, carefullydesigned style, featuring numerousobjects of interest.

“This house has really dictated the style

Photography courtesy of Strattons

iqueThe last decade has seen the rise of the boutique hotel and here in Norfolk we have some particularly fine examples. Abigail Saltmarsh reports

to which it has been decorated,” he says.“It is nothing like a typical chain hotel, itis much more individual but that is whatour guests seem to like.

“It is quirky and really suited to peoplelooking for something out of theordinary – often guests from abroad who are seeking a quintessentiallyEnglish experience.”

Bagthorpe Hall is another property withcharacter and individuality. Here guestsare welcomed into a charming formercoach house, where there is a mural inthe hall that chronicles the family history.

Home cooked food using fresh localproduce, flexibility with meals andplenty of attention from hosts are othercharacteristics of the boutique bed andbreakfast, guest house or hotel.

“Everything is of top quality,” suggestsHannah. “People are looking for aunique stay at a boutique hotel; ittherefore has to be the very finest.”

For more information on Strattons

call 01760 723845 or visit

www.strattons-hotel.co.uk

For more information on Gothic House


www.gothic-house-norwich.com


Designer Lanassir Lawes of SwankInteriors says boutique hotels have aheavy emphasis on interior design.

From her recently opened studio in aconverted barn at Bressingham sheadvises on colour schemes, fabrics,furniture and furnishings.

Here she also stocks a range ofleading brands of fabrics, wallpaper,paint and home accessories, and canhelp customers create that “boutiquehotel” style for themselves.

“Boutique hotels have their own verydistinct look, which can be very richand luxurious,” she explains.

“There is frequently an emphasis on texture and on colour, and on achieving a fine balance within a room.

“Very often a room in a boutiquehotel will feature one or twointeresting antique pieces. These canthen be worked into a design withmore contemporary items.

“A boutique hotel wants its rooms to be comfortable while alsoremaining stylish.”

For more information on Swank Interiors, visit its showroom at Three Gates Farm, Fen Street,

Bressingham, Norfolk, IP22 2AQ, call 01379 687542 or visit www.swankinteriors.co.uk

By DesignG

othic House photography by N

ick Read

Kiw

i Inns photography by Andrew D

avies

UNIQUELY AWAY SUMMER 2012

Stockists of many leading brands of fabrics, wallpaper, paint and home accessories.

To truly appreciate the ultimate interior design experience in East Anglia please visit our showroom. Three Gates Farm, Fen Street, Bressingham, Norfolk, IP22 2AQ. Open Tuesday to Friday: 9.30am - 4.30pm or by appointment at other times.

T: 01379 687542 W: swankinteriors.co.uk

THE ULTIMATE INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERIENCE From a single scented candle to a full home refurbishment.

to a full home refurbishmFrom a single scented ca

EXPERIENCEINTERIOR DES

TETIMAATTHE ULLT

entandle

SIGNE

to a full home refurbishm

ent.

swankinteriors.co.W:01379 687542T:

uesday to Friday: 9.Open Tem, Fen Stree Gates FarThr

eciate the ultimo truly apprTTo

Stockists of many leading b

uk

30am - 4.30pm or by appointmfolk, IP22essingham, Noreet, Br

mate interior design experience

, pabrands of fabrics, wallpaper

ment at other times.2 2AQ.

in East Anglia please visit our s

aint and home accessories.

oom.showr


Bagthorpe Hall Bed & BreakfastQuiet and peaceful, surrounded by trees of up to 300 years old andextensive gardens, set in open countryside. Ten minutes from BurnhamMarket. Big rooms, big beds, organic and homemade breakfast.

For more information please contact 01485 578528 or visit www.bagthorpehall.co.uk

Gothic HouseBoutique bed and breakfast in NorwichRegency, Grade II listed building, set in a quiet courtyard, within walking distance of Norwich Cathedral and city centre.

For room rates, special weekend deals or longer stays call 01603 631879 or visit www.gothic-house-norwich.com

http://www.homehallbedandbreakfast.com/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.strattonshotel.com/


NATURE TRAIL

Discover marsh harriers, bitterns, elusive kingfishers

and rare orchids in the wild heart of the Broads.

Only 10 miles from Norwich.For more information and opening times visitwww.rspb.org.uk/strumpshawfen or ring 01603 715191

EVERYONEWELCOME

Strumpshaw FenVisitnature reserve soon.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654. 380-1354-10-11 Strumpshaw Fens by Mike Richards (rspb-images.com)

��An amazing day in a magical

place! I haven’t felt so

relaxed in ages.

��


Flying the nestAward-winning, television chef ChrisCoubrough now has five luxury hotelsand restaurants in Norfolk. He tellsAbigail Saltmarsh why he has chosento make his home here in the county

Photograph by Nick R

ead


Renowned chef and entrepreneur Chris Coubrough could not be furtherfrom home.

Born and raised in New Zealand, theman behind The Flying Kiwi Inns haschosen to make a new nest for himself inNorfolk – and he has no intention ofleaving it.

Chris, star of ITV’s Coastal Kitchen andChannel 4’s Eating for Britain, now hasfive upmarket hotels and restaurants inthe county, and is one of the handful ofwell-known chefs and hoteliers creditedwith giving Norfolk its reputation for finedining and premium accommodation.

He has been living and working in thecounty for about 20 years now, haspainstakingly launched and nurturedeach individual operation and hasdecided, along with his wife Jo, to liveand raise a family close to the NorthNorfolk coast.

“I love Norfolk for its complexity,” headmits. “New Zealand is beautiful but itdoes not have the diversity of Norfolk.

“We have the beautiful countryside hereand more sunshine than other parts of

Britain. There are also the beaches andthe marshes to enjoy in summer, andthe creeks that heat up so you can goswimming in them.

“The sand dunes and the open sea doremind me of New Zealand – that senseof wilderness – but then at the same timeyou can go to places like Wells-next-the-Sea, where there are lots of other people,and it is busy and it is fun.”

He adds: “On top of that, there is all thefresh, local produce here. Norfolk isbrilliant for delicious sea food andlocally grown fruit and vegetables. Thisis the perfect place to have a restaurant.”

It was in the 1990s that Chris first flew into the UK, desperate to gain experiencein the kitchens of London’s leadingrestaurants. But the long hours,struggles with public transport andgeneral grind of big city life took its tolland, after two years, he presentedhimself at a recruitment agency anddemanded a job anywhere outside thecapital that would earn him enoughmoney to buy a ticket home.

“I’d had this idea of England as beingsomewhere with a village green and


cricket matches, and four boys fromLiverpool playing music together,” he admits.

“London hadn’t been like that at all butI was then given this job at The Swan,Southwold. I had not left London since arriving from New Zealand, and Southwold was a different world altogether.”

He recalls: “I was collected from thestation and driven into the town – and there was the green and peopleplaying cricket. I could also see thebeach huts; this was the England I hadbeen imagining.”

It was at The Swan that Chris met Jo, at that time a waitress, working in heruniversity holidays. After a few years,they decided to settle down togetherand start a business, and despite Jobeing from Suffolk (and an early forayinto a venture down there), they chose tomake their home in Norfolk.

“At that time, Norfolk was something ofa secret,” Chris suggests. “Yes, it is truethat property there was much moreaffordable than in Suffolk back then but

the fact was that to some extent it wasalso waiting to be discovered.”

However, he continues: “Since cominghere, I have realised how many peoplehave been quietly enjoying it year afteryear. Sometimes you get these wholevillages of people from places likeLeicestershire and Lincolnshire, whosefamilies have been coming here forgenerations. But it is only relativelyrecently that it has become so popularwith those from London and the south east.”

Chris admits he took a risk in Norfolk,buying buildings to renovate, investingheavily in their redesign, and taking theplunge with staffing, marketing and allthe other essentials when developing asuccessful business.

But, at the same time, he has alwaysmaintained that the process “is notrocket science.”

While The Crown Hotel, Wells, The Kings Head, Letheringsett, The Ship Hotel, Brancaster, The Crown Inn, East Rudham, and The White Hart, Hingham, are all now renowned for their fine dining and

Photography by Andrew D

avies

➸

high quality accommodation, Chris’sapproach is also very much about down-to-earth comfort.

“It is about offering a good service andgood food, and about being prepared togo the extra mile,” he explains. “I wantmy places to be stylish but at the sametime they must be comfortable. Peopleneed to feel welcomed and looked after.If they want something, then we try tomake sure they can have it.”

All the Flying Kiwi Inns establishmentspresent tasteful, gentle interiors whereinteresting finds from auctions or withlocal connections are worked into thedesign against a backdrop of originalfeatures and subtle heritage paintshades. Bedrooms have a boutiquehotel, and very individual, feel andsmart restaurant rooms sit alongsidecosy snugs and relaxation areas.

On the food side, the restaurants havebeen at the forefront of North Norfolk’semergence as a gastro destination,somewhere chefs are prepared to uselocal ingredients where possible tocreate exciting and innovative dishes.

“There are others doing this too now

but that works very well,” he says. “It islike having a number of antique shopsside-by-side on one road; together weare pulling people up to this part of theworld and that is a great thing forNorfolk and, therefore, good for all ofus too.”

Chris does miss his friends and family inNew Zealand but with his business sorooted in Norfolk and his childrengrowing up with the beautiful coast onone side and the glorious countryside onthe other, he cannot ever imagine leaving.

“The kids are half New Zealanders insome ways but in others they are verymuch from Norfolk.

“I love the fact they will run out from thehouse with me in the morning to gatherfresh eggs but as soon as they stop at theback door and call out that they needtheir shoes on, I realise just how Britishthey also are,” he laughs.

“But then again, when I think abouteverything we have here, I have to admitthat for them, growing up in Norfolkreally is just brilliant.”

For more information on all The Flying Kiwi Inns

visit www.flyingkiwiinss.co.uk


Photography by Andrew D

avies

Uniquely Away has teamed up with Flying Kiwi Innsto offer one lucky reader a stay for two people, inthree of Chris Coubrough’s luxury hotels.

The winner of our competition will be able to enjoyovernight stays in the award-winning hotels, as theyexplore the stunning Norfolk countryside and makethe most of all there is to enjoy in the area.

Flying Kiwi Inns is offering the winner a choice ofhow they enjoy their prize.

The three nights away can be taken separately, attwo or three different times within the period of ayear (single nights to be taken mid-week only), or inone three-day break, moving between hotels (FlyingKiwi Inns is happy to transport luggage for thosewishing to walk or cycle between hotels).

The winner, and his or her guest, could, forexample, enjoy a visit to imposing Houghton Hallfollowed by a night at the fabulous Crown Inn, East Rudham.

The following day, they could then spend anafternoon at The Royal West Norfolk Golf Club,Brancaster*, followed by a night at the welcomingShip Hotel.

On their final day, they could choose to go birdwatching on the beautiful marshes or walkingacross the golden sands at Wells-next-the-Sea,followed by a night at the sumptuous Crown Hotel.

Chris has generously offered our winner – and hisor her guest – a three-course meal, complete withbottle of wine, each evening, as well as a delicioushome-cooked breakfast in the morning.

To enter our draw to win this magnificent prize, simply send your name, address, email address and daytime telephone number to:

[email protected]

or send a postcard to:

Uniquely AwayFerndale CentreExeter StreetNorwich NR2 4QB

The competition closes on Friday 31 August. The winner will be announced in the autumn issue of Uniquely Away. The usual Uniquely Magazines terms and conditions apply. For full details visit www.uniquelymags.co.uk.

*Sessions can be arranged mid-week or out of school holidays only.


THE FLYING KIWI INNS

www.flyingkiwiinns.co.uk

EATDRINKSLEEP

LetheringsettTHE KINGS HEAD THE CROWN INN

East RudhamTHE SHIP HOTEL

Brancaster Wells-next-the-SeaTHE CROWN HOTEL THE WHITE HART HOTEL

Hingham

WIN A STAY FOR TWO PEOPLE, IN THREE LUXURY HOTELS

Plumbe and MaufePlumbe and Maufe at Leith House Orchards sellspecialty plums and gages from approximately midJuly through to mid September. Planted in the 1970s,the orchard has over 35 different varieties for thediscerning plum lover. As well as fresh plums andgages we do PYO plums, our own plum jams andchutneys, apple juice and sweet plum vinegar. Weare not a general farm shop, we are a plum shop!

Leith House Orchards is just off the B1155 betweenBurnham Market and Holkham Park in North Norfolk.

For more information contact Nina Plumbe on 07774996634 or 01328 738 311 or visit www.pmfarming.co.uk

O r g a n i c F o o d & D r i n k

NorwichInternational

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Earlham House Shops, Earlham RoadNorwich NR2 3PD01603 [email protected] timesMonday - Saturday 9-7 Sunday 10-4

Deli, Café & ShopChampions of Local Food


Take a trip through Norfolk and savourthe home-produced delicacies you findalong the way.

From the cheese that is made with milkfrom the county’s dairies to the beerbrewed with its barley and the breadbaked with its wheat, Norfolk’s table isoverflowing with delights.

Chefs in the county relish the plentifulsupply of good quality ingredients thatallows them to create their excitingdishes, while farm shops, food storesand farmers’ markets enjoy selling theirwares fresh to the customer.

Luke Coathup runs The Green Grocers,in Norwich, where 90 per cent of thefood and drink is organic and/or locally

sourced. The remainder is either FairTrade or Eco Friendly.

“We are lucky, we do have a good spreadof fresh produce here in the county,” hesays. “We have seafood of the highestquality, including, of course, the famousCromer Crab, which we have in theshop at the moment.

“We also have some fantasticsmokehouses here that produce a reallyhigh quality of smoked fish and meat.”

Luke says many farmers in the countytake great pride in producing meat fromfree range or organic animals. They usehigh quality feed and allow theirlivestock to graze freely outside.“Some of the meat we have travels less

than 10 miles to reach us. Because weknow where it comes from and howquickly it reaches us, we really canguarantee the quality,” he says.

Plums, apples, strawberries and otherfruit are grown here – to be picked andeaten fresh by customers, taken straightto the shop shelves or used to makeother delicious produce.

Wood Berry Farm, for example, is asmall, award-winning, family-runbusiness, which specialises in reducedsugar and high fruit conserves andchutneys. Based near Wymondham, itsproducts are made in small batches, withhome-grown fruit, and only 15 per centadded sugar.

Tasty seafood caught off the coast and enjoyed inin the afternoon, ready to eat with scones at tea t


ead

Photograph by Andrew D

avis


“We have lots of small producers in thisarea who make foods such as jams,chutneys and other artisan products thatare wonderful,” says Luke, who overseesthe baking of bread for The GreenGrocers, from his Butlers outside cateringand vegetarian outlet. Fresh fruit and vegis always on the menu in Norfolk.

This year, the weather has not been kindto all producers. Yet while Norfolkasparagus has suffered from a lack ofspring sunshine (although there arehopes of a late wave of the tasty vegetable)strawberries still look set to be plentiful.

“Poor weather can affect the strawberryseason but we are lucky as a lot of ourshere are grown under polytunnels thesedays so we should still see plenty this

year,” says Luke.

“In July, we will also be coming in to our tomatoes – and we have someunbelievable, biodynamic and organicvarieties here.”

Sea vegetables are less likely to beaffected by the gloomy weather and areset to remain salty additions to finedining throughout this summer.

“Towards the end of June, we shouldstart to see samphire, which issomething that really stands out inNorfolk,” he adds.

“For many of us, samphire was part ofgrowing up here. We remembergathering it as children – and getting

muddy in Stiffkey as we went out to pick it.”

Dishes from fine restaurants at establishments,

such as Strattons and Flying Kiwi Inns,

include fresh local produce.

For more information on The Green Grocers

visit the store at Earlham House, Earlham Road,

Norwich, NR2 3PD, call 01603 250000 or visit

www.the greengrocers.co.uk

CoC

oes deli photograph courtesy of Strattons

n a salad for lunch – or ripe strawberries gatheredtime. Norfolk has a wealth of fresh, local produce

Photograph by Andrew D

avis

Take a stroll through quiet Cawston,drop into the Ratcatchers Inn anddiscover a treasure trove of artwork.

Not only is the Ratcatchers Inn (knownlocally as “the Rat’s”) renowned for itsfood and service, but it also exhibits thework of internationally acclaimed artistPhil Daniels.

Here visitors can feast their eyes uponhis colourful and highly detailed art,which is also displayed in collectionsacross the globe.

The Rat’s is a pub and restaurant withcharacter and history. Winners of theTaste of England Challenge and finalistsin Chef of the Year and CustomerService Pub of the Year, its weekdaylunchtimes are always popular.

In the evening, especially on Fridaysand Saturdays, it is renowned for itslively atmosphere and delicious food.

Sunday lunches, with traditional roastsor the full main menu always available,are also an experience, and popular withlocal people and visitors alike.

With its beams and horse brasses, as well as Phil’s art, the Rat’s is proud of its traditional interior, its fine dining and the warm welcome it always offersits customers.

The Ratcatchers Inn is at Easton Way, Eastgate,

Cawston, NR10 4HA. For more information call

01603 871430 or visit www.ratcatchers-inn.com

Com

petition fin

alist chef Chris Tortice

http://www.ratcatchers-inn.com/


http://www.woodberryfarm.co.uk/


Photographer Harry Cory Wright is known for his love of thegreat outdoors and for his exploration of the landscape


From the silent, stretching saltmarshesand their reedy creeks to the wide openskies above, Harry Cory Wright canalways find something new tophotograph in North Norfolk.

Harry, who first became interested in photography at the age of about 16 or 17, is, by his own admission,obsessed with “place.”

And there is nowhere he is morepassionate about than the landscape in which he lives.

Harry, who lives and works in BurnhamMarket, began taking photographs fordesign magazines, and focusing on still life shots. But as time went by, hebecame more interested in the outdoors,and when he acquired his first 10 byeight inch plate camera, in 1997, it opened his eyes to the kind ofphotography he really wanted to do.

“I’ve always loved the feeling of being wrapped up in a place - sothoroughly absorbed by it,” he says.“This has manifested itself through my photography.”

Indeed, today he is still known for hisuse of the enormous wooden Gandolfiplate camera and can often be seenexploring the marshlands and greatexpanses of the coast with it, looking forthat one perfect shot.

“People often think I use these 10 byeight inch plate cameras for nostalgicreasons – but, although one of the ones I use is 50 years old, that is not true atall,” he explains. “I use them becausethey are really the only tools for the job.

“They still use film, are nice and slow touse and are wonderful to look through.You take a picture with them and youcan look at it later and see much morethan you saw at the time.”

Harry’s current photographic journey,following the theme of “place,” has seenhim collaborate with top writersincluding David Almond, AdamNicolson, Ruth Padel, Lionel Shriverand Geoff Dyer.

As well as sharing his own experiencesthrough a series of images, he asked theauthors to make their own suggestionsfor a location and then to complementhis resulting image with a short piece oftheir own writing. The Place in Mindexhibition was then mounted at galleryEleven, in London, where Harry’s workstill features.


“For me, this was a new take on the ideaof place,” he explains. “I realised thatplace exists as much in the mind as itdoes in reality.

“I started thinking about the places that people carry in their minds –not necessarily a favourite view orsomewhere that has nostalgicconnections – but somewhere that they engage with internally on a different level.”

Harry’s own “places in mind” were alsoprominent in the collection. They weredrawn from a variety of locations,including one in Norfolk.

“This is a picture that looks likearchetypal East Anglia, in that it is veryflat and very tidal – it ticks all the boxes– but it is also somewhere that could bein the imagination,” he explains.

He goes on: “I was brought up betweenNorfolk and Surrey – and both placeshad a real effect on me.

“In Surrey, there was the river; the ideaof place with water running through it.Here, in Norfolk, we have a place that isvery identifiable but at the same timethere is a sense of flux - with all thesand, the lack of rock and the tidecoming in and out.” Harry, who haspublished previous work in his Saltwaterbooks, is continuing to pursue thetheme of place, and hopes to bring outanother in the large format, 16-pageseries before long.

“I do want to take the idea of placefurther – but in a much more open way,”he suggests. “It is going to be muchwider, much more diverse –I think I am going to take it out into Europe.”

But he adds: “Wherever I do take it,however, I will always return to Norfolk.

“It is not only the sense of place herethat I feel constantly drawn back to butalso the fact that this is where I feelgrounded, and that is something I needfor my work.”

Main image by Harry Cory Wright

For more information visit

www.harrycorywright.com or

www.elevenfineart.com


http://pinkfootgallery.co.uk/

http://www.art1821.com/


http://www.westcliffegallery.com/

Born and brought up in Denton, on theNorfolk and Suffolk border, artist AlecCumming now divides his time betweenNorwich and New Delhi.

Discovered and represented by LauraWilliams, of Art 18/21, he exhibits at theNorwich gallery alongside the likes ofJohn Hoyland, Maggi Hambling andBruer Tidman.

He has also had two solo exhibitions inMayfair, London, as well as at the IndiaArt Fair, where the likes of Damien Hirstand Anish Kapoor were also featured.

“Alec was working from a space inNorwich called Stew when I first cameacross him,” says art historian Laura,who has been an art dealer for 17 yearsand has run 18/21 for nearly five.

“The first time I saw his work I was justblown away. We then had his first showin February 2009, and it completely sold out.”

Laura, who works with partner galleriesin London and India, curatingexhibitions featuring a range ofcontemporary artists, accompanied Alec to India.

He fell in love with the country and is currently working on his colourful,exuberant pieces from a studio out there.

“I discovered I had a real affinity to theplace,” says Alec, from his studio in NewDelhi. “There is so much here; it is so

busy and sometimes chaotic, and itinforms my work in a unique way.

“I am the kind of person who looksbeyond the obvious and sees things I can use in my painting. It is aboutgetting some kind of essence fromeverything around me and being here in India is ideal for that.”

Alec, 25, began sketching and paintingat the age of 10. He took lessons from alocal artist, took a diploma in Fine Art atNorwich City College and later studiedFine Art at the Norwich School of Artand Design.

“A group of about six or seven of usthen got together to set Stew up. We feltthere was not enough affordable studiospace for artists in Norwich and that ifwe were serious about what we wanted todo, we had to push forward with theproject. I still have a studio there andlook forward to returning to it.”

Currently working on a series of largepaintings in his artist’s space in NewDelhi, he plans to return to Norwichtowards the end of the year.

“It will be interesting coming back,” headmits. “I am looking forward to seeinghow my time in India is referenced inmy work and whether my paintingsbecome reflective in any way at all.”

For more information on Alec Cumming or

Art 18/21 Gallery, Augustine Steward House,

14 Tombland, Norwich, NR3 1HF, call 01603

763345 or visit www.art1821.com


In the pictureTucked away in the heart of MedievalNorwich, Art 18/21 Gallery presents thework of a range of artists, includingNorfolk’s own Alec Cumming


Creative InWith a spectrum of superb galleries to visit, and a multitude of talented artists and cr

PinkfootGallery

For more information on Pinkfoot Gallery visit www.pinkfootgallery.com or call 01263 740947

In the heart of the pretty North Norfolkvillage of Cley, Pinkfoot Galleryrepresents a number of artists, includingone of its owners, Rachel Lockwood.

Also run by Sarah Whittley, who has abackground in writing and publishing,as well as art, it promotes contemporarypieces, which have, more often than not,been inspired by nature.

“I am into nature and birdwatching, andCley has always been my favourite placein the world,” says Sarah. “We werelooking everywhere for a gallery and did say to the former owner here thatif he ever wanted to sell we would be interested.

“A year later he did and we couldn’tbelieve it. We have been here for nearlyeight years now and it is a wonderfulplace to work from.”

In addition to Rachel, artists featuredinclude Daniel Cole, Jane Hodgson andJo Lawrence.

“Dan is a fantastic artist, who comes uphere twice a year to paint with Rachel.Jane, who will have a show here duringthe first week of the school summerholidays, is also superb; she worksoutside and enjoys painting fishermen.

“Jo will be exhibiting here for much of August. Her paintings are inspired by the Norfolk and Suffolk coast, andthe countryside.”

Lesley Pyke

For more information on Lesley Pyke’s work call 01986 874634or visit www.lesleypyke.com


ead


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nspirationsraftspeople working in the area, Norfolk and North Suffolk have a vibrant arts scene

At her studio in Halesworth, Lesley Pyketakes pieces of glass and transformsthem into objects of even more beauty.

Born and living in Zimbabwe, she firstbegan glass engraving in 1983, and went on to teach herself how to perfectthe art.

“No-one else was doing it professionallythere at the time so I saw thepossibilities,” she says. “As soon as Istarted doing it people were asking mefor pieces and it really took off.”

Lesley moved to the UK 11 years agoand today specialises in bespokeengravings for the luxury gift market.She works on high quality crystal,creating personalised pieces rangingfrom anniversary and wedding giftsthrough to trophies.

“One of the high end pieces I have beenasked to create involves copying apicture of someone’s yacht across threecrystal decanters,” she explains. “This isa challenge because I have to get everylittle detail right and sometimes it iseven possible to see inside the boat.”

WestcliffeGallery

For more information on Westcliffe Gallery call 01263 824320or visit www.westcliffegallery.com

It has been almost 35 years since Rickand Sheila Parks launched the WestcliffeGallery in Sheringham.

Thought to be the largest gallery in Norfolk, it focuses on fine art and antiques, and includes a pictureframing operation.

“We have about 250 pictures over two floors,” says Rick. “We do notspecialise in any one particular field butlike to think there is something foreverybody here.”

While featuring works by artists from the18th century onwards, the gallery alsopromotes the talent of new andestablished painters. More than 30professional contemporary artists havetheir work regularly on display.

These include the likes of Iraqi artistSuad al Attar and Great Yarmouth-bornpainter Raymond Leech.

“During the first week of June, we willalso be continuing to exhibit recentpaintings of John Bond,” he adds.

Westcliffe Gallery is also the base for the Guild of Norwich Painters, whoseannual exhibition is held here.

Raym

ond LeechSuad al Attar


Aisle And

Air This year the acclaimedSalthouse art exhibition is

to be held at CleyAbigail Saltmarsh talks to curator Isabel Vasseur

From Salthouse to Cley – and frominside to out.

Visitors to the North Norfolk ExhibitionProject’s annual art event will bestepping out into the fresh air this year.

Along with a change of coastal location –Salthouse 12 has become Cley 12 – the contemporary art exhibition is being displayed against a backdrop of the natural landscape, as well aswithin a church.

Aisle and Air, curated by Isabel Vasseur,director of public art consultancyArtOffice, explains the exhibition will be set within the architecture of St Margaret’s of Antioch, as well as theNorfolk Wildlife Trust’s coastal path,running between the marshes and the sea.

“I thought the move from Salthouse toCley would be a wonderful opportunityto take the work outside,” she says.“Much of it is therefore threedimensional and site specific.”

The settings have provided a richselection of themes for artists to respond to and in total 33 pieces ofwork will be displayed. There will also be a programme of workshops, events,tours and talks.

“I felt the work displayed in the churchshould be relevant to its architecture orits history,” Isabel explains. “When itcame to the outdoor space, I wanted itto be developed from the theme of thebird hide, and I invited architects to takepart, as well as artists.”

Thousands of visitors flock to theexhibition every year to enjoy theshowcase of new contemporary art. The event offers an opportunity toexperience an eclectic array of shape,form and colour in a range of mediumsand settings.

This year will see pieces formed fromnatural materials and exhibits rangingfrom sculpture, ceramics and stone-carving to painting, photography,projection, sound, installation, camera obscura, textile and evencommunity crochet.

Isabel, who is a pioneer of the UK publicart movement, co-ordinating gardenfestivals in Glasgow and Gateshead, and orchestrating more than 150commissions, says the move out on tothe Norfolk Wildlife Trust land betweenCley and Salthouse will give this year’sevent added attraction.

“All those participating are either fromNorfolk or Norfolk is relevant to theirlives in some way,” she says.

We have a terrific variety of exhibits,some of which are very, very good andare really quite important pieces.”


Cley 12, Aisle and Air,

runs from Thursday 5 July to

Sunday 5 August.

It will be open daily from

10am to 5.30pm, with openings

until 8.30pm on Sunday 15 July,

Wednesday 18 July, Saturday 21

July, Thursday 26 July and

Tuesday 31 July.

The exhibition will be mounted in

St Margaret’s Church, Cley, and on

Norfolk Wildlife Trust land nearby.

For information on the exhibition,

events and workshops visit

www.salthouseart.co.uk

Artists featured in this year’s

exhibition include:

Aidan Abernethy

Nick Ball

Bridget Bates

Margie Britz and John Cox

Mary Crofts

Kelly Davidson

Jenske Dijkhuis

Stephanie Douet

Paul Ebbens and Peter Swann

Antje Ernestus

Karin Forman

Stephanie Gilbert

Miriam Grey

Birkin Haward Architect

Jo and Gary Hincks

Tony Hoare

Anthony Hudson Hudson Architects

Elizabeth Humphries

Graham Johnston

Gillian McArthur McArthur Tring Architects

Liz McGowan and Jane Frost

Duncan McAfee

Rob McVicar A Square Architects

Sara Muzira

Effie Paleologou

Jessica Perry

Joy Pitts

Andrew Schumann

Elena Thatcher Architectural Designer

Louise Tiplady

Jack Wheeler and Beth Groom

Brian Whelan

Vanessa Vargo

Michael HornPaintings and DrawingsNorfolk Years 1992-2012Salthouse ChurchUntil June 10

Located in the heart of

Lynn’s North End,

True’s Yard Museum is a

fantastic way to learn about the

history of Lynn & its people. Come

and see our 18th century fisherfolk

cottages, fishing boat, and step

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ing in Lynn. See how the North-

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A fun day out!

North St, King’s Lynn, PE30 1QW

01553-770-479 www.TruesYard.co.uk

http://cleysmokehouse.com/


a day out in…

CLEYNEXT THE SEA


a day out in…

CLEYNEXT THE SEA

Once a thriving port, Cley Next The Sea is now a haven of tranquillity, known for its reedy marshes andmagnificent landscapes.

Here, those passionate about walking,birdwatching and taking in the stunningscenery can stroll out from the villageand absorb the unique serenity of the area.

With its landmark windmill andimpressive St Margaret’s Church, the village stands out on the Norfolkcoast for its architecture as well as itsnatural beauty.

On its narrow main street, brick andflint cottages, and townhouses, nestlenext to interesting local businesses.

From Pinkfoot Gallery, with its range ofcontemporary art that has been inspiredby nature, through to shops selling freshlocal produce, there are a number ofoutlets in which to browse and enjoy allthe area has to offer.

Glen Weston is the current owner of thefamous Cley Smokehouse. His businesshas been producing freshly smoked fish,shellfish and cured meats, as well aslocal delicacies, such as crab, for morethan 30 years. Famous for his kippersand smoked prawns, everything isprepared on site and smoked at the backof his shop.

“We sell a lot of produce to visitors tothe area and very often they willcontinue to order our smoked meat and


fish via our website – they miss that tasteof North Norfolk once they havereturned home!” he says.

Glen has recently decided to take thenotion of serving freshly caught produceone step further, and has bought a boatthat he keeps at Cley Beach.

“My plan is to go out early in themorning – sometimes as early as 2am or 3am – to make the catch myself. I will then be smoking and selling it at Cley Smokehouse.”

Victoria Pryor has run award-winningdelicatessen Picnic Fayre, in the village,since 1984. From the shop in a formerforge, she sells fresh fruit andvegetables, as well as groceries and

locally produced foodstuff.

“We sell to people who live in the areaand to visitors,” she explains. “It is alllocal; we like to promote Norfolkproducers and to sell food, such ascakes, that we have made ourselves.”

Shoppers can pick up items to takehome to cook or to eat immediately.They can also ask the delicatessen tomake up picnics for them to enjoy asthey are out and about.

One of the most popular places to visitin the area is the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’sCley Marshes. This is the organisation’soldest nature reserve.

Here, in 2007, a new eco-friendly visitor

centre opened. This now features a café,shop and viewing areas, as well as anexhibition area.

And from here, people can wander outacross the marshes, look out for all sortsof wildlife and enjoy the massiveNorfolk skies above them.

Words by Sarah Sinclair, photography by Nick Read


www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk

For more information on

Cley Smokehouse call 01263 740282

or visit www.cleysmokehouse.com

Offering an eclectic range of day-to-day fashion and accessories combined with a well-travelled collection of homeware.

Nomad & the Bowerbird is nestled alongside ‘Bringing the outside in’, on the Main Road in Holkham. Pop in when you’re passing by!

http://www.nomadandthebowerbird.co.uk/

To book or for further details:

01603 270479 (Ranworth) 01692 598276 (Hickling)

Trips run from April to October.


Wildlife Boat Trips on the Norfolk Broads

Join Norfolk Wildlife Trust at Ranworth and Hickling Broads for a breathtaking

wildlife experience!


To book and for further details:

Ranworth01603 270479

Hickling01692 598276

Trips run from April to October

olkw.norfwww wildlifetrust.orgg.uk

As summer arrives, and the naturalworld is in full colour, there can benowhere more wonderful than TheNorfolk and Suffolk Broads.

A haven to so many protected species,this is an area that is rich in wildlife,and that also encompasses so manywonderful places to visit.

From the silent stretches of water to thereedy river banks and marshy flats, TheBroads offers the chance to reallybecome immersed in nature.

And yet, with a wealth of restoredwindmills, Medieval churches andbeautiful gardens as well, it also has along history and a multitude of otherattractions to explore.

More than two million people visit TheBroads every year, discovering it byland or water, or a combination of both. And there are many different ways toenjoy it – from sailing, motor-boating,canoeing, fishing and birdwatching towalking and cycling.

Today, the area includes 43 separatelakes and six rivers (the Yare, Chet,Waveney, Ant, Bure and Thurne).

It is an expanse of 303 sq km including 200km (125 miles) of lock-free navigable rivers, shallow lakes,woodland, fens and grazing marshes.The landscape it now reveals is believedto be the result of Medieval peatdiggings between the ninth and 13thcenturies. This peat was used as fuel forheating and cooking.

Over the centuries, as water levels rose,the diggings flooded and The Broadswere formed. The waterways of TheBroads then became important routesfor transporting cargo, often by wherry,between Norfolk and Suffolk villagesand towns.

It has only been relatively recently,however - since the 1890s, when the Victorians discovered the appeal of sailing through the waterways – that The Broads has been a holiday destination.

Today, the area is popular for boatingand nature appreciation. It is home to some of the rarest plants and wildlifein Britain, including the colourfulswallowtail butterfly and the enchantingwhite water lily.

Photography by Nick Read

For more information on The Broads and events

and activities in the area visit www.broads-

authority.gov.uk or www.enjoythebroads.com

It is a scene of natural beauty, a place ofoutdoor recreation and somewhere just tostand and breathe in the silence




In spring 2012, Berber Interiors, fromBayfield Brecks, near Holt, opened anew shop in the Ancient House inHolkham village. Alongside items fromthe collection of Moroccan rugs, mirrors,ceramics, leather and carpet bags,handwoven fabric, which can be madeinto curtains, cushions and throws, thereis the new addition of Berber Kitchen.The flavours of North Africa are nowreadily available with their range oftempting pickles, sauces, bottled lemonsand Berber's own recipe spice paste forthe making of the traditional lambtagine. There is also a choice of cookbooks with authentic recipes fromMorocco to entice and inspire anyonewith a love of Moroccan cuisine.

To celebrate Norfolk there are paintings, both original and prints, by local artistRachel Lockwood. Also available is Rachel’sbook North Norfolk, A Painted Landscape, a year-long record in the life of a dedicatedartist and lover of the rich wildlife andlandscape of Norfolk.

Berber at Holkham

Open every day from 10am to 5pm

Ancient House, Main Road, Holkham,

Norfolk, NR23 1AD

Telephone 01328 711517

[email protected]

www.berberinteriors.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Bringingcontemporary

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AT HOLKHAM

Norfolk TalesWith its connections to British poet and author Geoffrey Chaucer

and its award-winning design, the exclusive Norfolk barn hasbecome a leading wedding venue


An exquisite combination of flint, woodand glass, award-winning Chaucer Barnmakes a bold architectural statement onthe North Norfolk countryside.

Inside, its grand spaces and beautifullydesigned interiors are equallyimpressive, attracting visitors to the Gresham barn from across the UK and beyond.

Now the picturesque building, whichwon an award from the Council for the Protection of Rural England, ismaking a name for itself as an exclusivewedding venue.

Couples wishing to hold marriageceremonies are able to choose betweenthe more traditional setting of thebanqueting hall, with its minstrels’gallery, or the contrasting contemporaryEast Wing, with its bold colours anddesigner furnishings.

Owner James Mermagen points out the luxury barn was recently listed sixth in The Independent’s Top 50Wedding Venues.

“Weddings have really taken off for us now,” he says. “We still have lots ofpeople coming to stay here for breaksand holidays but the wedding side of the business has become increasingly important.”

With origins dating back to the 14th century, the barn was once part of a farm thought to have been bought bythe poet Geoffrey Chaucer for his son.

Today the building, which was converted by James, presents a glorious combination of the old and the new, and sits in landscaped gardenswith farmland beyond.

“I think parts of the main barn, as it is today, date back to the late 17thcentury. It was part of the potato farmmy grandfather used to run and was still a farmyard when I took it on.”


Looking for somewhere to live at thetime, James converted the original barn.Today this retains many of the building’soriginal features, including areas ofexposed brick and flintwork, as well asheavy oak timbers.

In 2005, an adjoining storage area tothe main barn was also converted,adding a different dimension to theproperty. This time a lot more glass wasbrought into the building, creating aliving space that was designed to openup on to the courtyard area.

“I wanted the windows to slide rightback so that in the summer months itfelt as if there was no distinctionbetween the inside and outside areas,”he explains.

The East Wing features great sofascovered in a glorious pink and orangefabric he bought in Sri Lanka as well as massive curtains with a vibrantcircular pattern made by Norfolk artist Annabel Gray.

With nine bedrooms and sevenbathrooms, the barn can sleep up to 18 people, although dozens more can be accommodated for a wedding party,especially if a marquee is set up in thegardens, he explains.

“This barn is ideal for weddings. Peoplecan choose to use the rooms in differentways, depending on the kind of weddingthey plan to have.”

Recent improvements to the barn have seen five acres of farmlandtransformed into parkland, with anavenue of trees planted out towards a wooded area.

“We have also planted a circle of treesfor people who want to have woodlandweddings in the future,” says James.

“Once this has all fully matured, it willlook wonderful; and we might even tryto introduce some deer.”

Words by Mary Williams,

photographs courtesy of Chaucer Barn

For more information on Chaucer Barn call

01263 577733 or visit www.chaucerbarn.com



Situated in the heart of the Norfolkcountryside, near imposing YaxhamMill, a new café bar and restaurant, and five holiday cottages, have recentlybeen refurbished

Fresh Cromer crab cakes, chicken stuffedwith ricotta and wild garlic ororganically-reared, Norfolk ribeye steak– wherever possible the food served atThe Mill Café Bar & Restaurant islocally sourced and seasonally inspired.

The recently refurbished restaurantstands at the foot of landmark buildingYaxham Mill, next to five newlyrenovated holiday cottages.

Hugo and Anna Stevenson bought therestaurant building in October last yearand relaunched it five weeks later as astylish yet welcoming new operation.

“We have everything on offer here fromfresh coffee and homemade cakesthrough to delicious snacks, traditionalbar food and fine dining with an a lacarte menu,” says Hugo. “We are alreadygaining a reputation for our food andseeing increasing numbers of visitorsbooking tables here.”

Once the house and chapel to thethriving flour mill, the building, which isthought to date back to 1860, beautifullycombines character and charm withcontemporary comfort.

Mill Cottages, originally home to thoseworking at the mill, are today owned byAnn Goodfellow, who has painstakinglyrestored the properties to offer herguests cosy and invitingaccommodation.

S A M P L E M E N U

T O S TA R T

Duck spring roll, served with a homemade plum and lime jam

Watercress soup, with freshly made parmesan croutons

M A I N C O U R S E

Moroccan lamb tagine, served with lime and coriander cous cous and flat bread

Mushroom tart, with gratinated British bubble and seasonal squeak

D E S S E R T

Traditional rhubarb crumble and custard

Prince Regent chocolate cake


Also bursting with character, andboasting all mod cons, the cottages offera wide range of accommodation to suitparties of different sizes.

“I have furnished them to a highstandard,” says Ann. “They are perfectfor those keen to holiday here, exploreNorfolk and really make the most of abreak in this beautiful area.”

Photography by Nick Read


The Mill Café Bar & Restaurant


www.themillnorfolk.co.uk

For information on Mill Cottages


www.millcottagesatyaxham.co.uk

WIN A TWO NIGHT BREAK AND DINNER FOR TWO

Uniquely Away has teamed up with cottage owner, Ann Goodfellow, andhusband and wife team, Hugo and Anna Stevenson, who own The Mill Café

Bar & Restaurant, to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a two nightbreak for two in a luxury self-catering cottage, as well as a three course dinner

for two, inclusive of a bottle of wine at the restaurant.

To enter our draw to win this fabulous prize, simply send your name, address, email address and daytime telephone number to:

[email protected] send a postcard to:

Uniquely Away, Ferndale Centre, Exeter Street, Norwich NR2 4QB

The competition closes on Friday 31 August. The winner will be announced in the autumn issue of Uniquely Away. The usual Uniquely Magazines terms and conditions apply. For full details visit www.uniquelymags.co.uk.

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Established ten years ago by local

landscape photographer Martin

Billing, Bringing the outside in has

forged a reputation as one of the

‘must see’ galleries along the

North Norfolk coast. With the

elements at it’s heart, Bringing the

outside in, is a retail experience

unlike any other where all

customers are free to explore and

discover everything it has to offer.

BTOI / Main Road, Holkham, NR23 1AD10:30 – 4:30 / Closed Tuesdayswww.bringingtheoutsidein.co.ukT. 01328 713093

Coastal Lifestyle Gallery follow us on facebook & twitter @BTOI_Holkham

MagazineWood

A luxury boutiqueB&B on the northNorfolk coast

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Manor MewsManor Mews is a collection of eco-friendly barn conversions combined with its own on site beauty salon, personal trainer and licensed wedding venue. The Mews offer everything from a cosy cottage for 2, converted barns for up to 16 or the original Manor House for a maximum of 22 - sleeping a total of 80 people.

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With their stone walls, picture windowsand timber beams, barns and formerfarm buildings embody the very essenceof the countryside.

Add their great spaces, vaulted ceilingsand, more often than not, tranquilsettings, and they also becomewonderful places to spend time in.

Michael McNamara, of MichaelMcNamara Associates, has more than 40 years experience in the conversion of barns. He is currently working on a project comprising 10 formeragricultural buildings at Snettisham.

“People enjoy staying in barns fordifferent reasons,” he says.

“It is partly the space – you can breathein a barn - but it is also the fact they arevery individual. No two barns will be the same.”

And he adds: “Location is alsoeverything – so many barns are situatedin beautiful countryside.”

Luxury bed and breakfast MagazineWood is set in a converted barn and a newer building created in the samestyle and from similar materials.

Here Pip Barber has created holidayaccommodation with a designer,boutique feel, all within three acres of parkland and woodland, close to Sedgeford.

Barsham Barns

Explore the countryside of Norfolk and Suffolk and

you will find any number of beautiful, converted farm

and barn buildings. While many of these are private homes,

others offer rural retreats to those visiting the area

Barsham Barns

Farms, Barns and


“We wanted to create something thatfitted in with the rural location and thatwas pretty high spec. It falls between atraditional bed and breakfast and topend boutique hotel. People like comingto this location because they can reallyget away from it all.”

Jenny Dale, one of the owners of award-winning, five star Barsham Barns, nearWalsingham, welcomes a range of guestsinto her luxury holiday properties. Aswell as for family holidays, groups bookfor significant birthday parties,weddings and business conferences.

Jenny’s imposing brick and flintbuildings were converted by HudsonArchitects and completed in 2005. Each was given an exclusive, stylishinterior and a very different feel.

“Barns make wonderful holiday homesbecause many of them have a large,communal space, which is open planand where a number of people can sitand chat, or eat together,” she says.

“You also often have those lovely views and that feeling of being in the country while staying somewhere very comfortable.”

She adds: “Our barns are also in a good location for reaching places people might like to visit. We are just 10 minutes away from the beaches of North Norfolk, for example.”

Words by Abigail Saltmarsh


Barsham Barns


www.barshambarns.co.uk

Magazine Wood


www.magazinewood.co.uk

Michael McNamara Associates


www.michaelmcnamaraassociates.co.uk

White Dove Barn

visit www.whitedovebarn.co.uk or

www.holidays-suffolk.co.uk

Magazine Wood

White Dove Barn

d Rural Retreats

She spends her summer days out on thesand, with her sketch book and camera,and her afternoons stitching and cutting.

Artist Abigail Mill is known across thecountry and beyond for her Norfolk andSuffolk inspired textile artwork.

Abigail grew up in Suffolk, near Bungayand Halesworth, going on to studydesign at Lowestoft Art College.

“From a very early age, I was alwaysmaking things,” she recalls. “Afterschool, I went on to Cumbria College ofArt and Design, in Carlisle, to specialisein textiles.

“There I began to work more threedimensionally, experimenting withtextures and fabrics. This includedmillinery, felt-making and embroidery.”

After being asked to take part in theChelsea Craft Fair and realising there

was a demand for her work, she set upher own studio, applied for a businessloan through the Princes Trust andbegan working from Muspole Street, in Norwich.

She started exhibiting at galleries andtaking part in major craft fairs, and soldthrough shops, including Liberty andJohn Lewis, across the country.

“Norfolk and Suffolk are wonderfulplaces to work. One of my ranges wasinspired by the colours and jars in asweet shop window in Sheringham.

“I also have other, very traditional,English scenes – bunting, seasideholidays and beach huts etc.”

Abigail takes photographs of scenes shelikes then returns to her studio, whereshe creates drawings and stitchestogether layer upon layer of fabric tocreate her image. All the fabrics she uses

are “over-dyed” to ensure unique andunusual colours.

Abigail, who has recently launched herown range of embroidery kits, regularlyattends events including the RoyalNorfolk Show and Country Living, aswell as those at Tatton Park, HatfieldHouse, Blickling Hall, Hampton Courtand RHS Wisley.

On Saturday 18 August , from 10 am to5pm, she will be on The Green, atBurnham Market Craft Fair.

“It is wonderful to be able to work likethis,” she says. “I enjoy being able to getout and about over the summer months,gathering ideas and then returning totransform them into pieces of art.”

For more information on Abigail Mill’s work,

show dates and embroidery kits visit

www.abigailmill.co.uk

Material WorldBeach huts, sailing boats and sandy beaches –

Abigail Mill’s textile work is heavily inspired

by the Suffolk and Norfolk coast


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We also supply luxury hand-made patisserie and cakes including a wide range of gluten free cakes

Check out our complete list of products on our website:



www.parravanis.co.ukwww.parravanis.co.ukwww.parravanis.co.uk

Unit 8, George Westwood Way, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9BNtelephone: 01502 715970 | email: [email protected]

http://www.glassengraving.org.uk/

http://www.exploresouthwold.co.uk/lancastercourt/



BESIDE THITS EASY COMBINATION OF TRADITIONAL SEASIDE APPEAL AND GENTLE PAC

Chat to any visitor on the seafront atSouthwold and they will probably tellyou the same thing – the coastal town’sappeal is its sense of timelessness.

That is not to say, however, that theseaside location is stuck in the past; this is somewhere you will not havetrouble finding a fresh latte or a tastefulseaside postcard.

The attraction of Southwold lies in itsapparently natural balance of the

traditional and the trendy; the slightlyfrayed and the incredibly stylish.

It offers genuine seaside fun, but all at agentle and easy pace.

Shirley Foley and her husband PeterJames Peacock have been holidaying inSouthwold since 1996.

The couple, who own a three-bedroom,self-catering apartment on Pier Avenue,which they also rent out, were living in Cambridge when they first started visiting.

“We had always dreamed of having a holiday home in Southwold, as it

is a place that is unchanging,” Shirleyexplains. “This is a time whereeverything is moving so quickly and yetSouthwold does not seem to.

“It feels like an island – and it is almostan island, with the sea, the river and theharbour around it, and then the fact youhave to cross Buss Creek to reach it from the north.”

But, continues Shirley, it is also thevariety of activities on offer in Southwold.

“We love the walking here, going to theestuary and crossing over to Walberswickand stopping in the local pubs,” shesays. “There are interesting shops to visitthat have unusual finds, as well as placesto buy delicious food.


E SEASIDECE OF LIFE MAKES SOUTHWOLD A VERY INDIVIDUAL, COASTAL DESTINATION

“We like going down to the places at theharbour to buy freshly caught fish thenbringing it home to cook, or going on along walk to Dunwich and sitting on thebeach eating fish and chips.”

With its pier, lighthouse, restaurants,pubs and shops, the town has plenty to keep people of all ages occupied, she stresses.

Shirley and Peter, a professional writer whose latest novel, The Towers of London, is available on Amazon, and for the Kindle, furnished much of their recently renovated apartment with furniture and items of interestfound in Southwold.

“You can find some quirky and eclecticthings in the town,” she says.

The couple have now moved to the Isleof Man, but still ensure they holiday inthe Suffolk seaside town at least two orthree times a year, and in between, theylet it out to guests.

Peter’s fourth novel, A Serpent inAmber, is due out later this year and isset in the Southwold.

“He was inspired by the town,” she says. “We both love it here. There issomething about the air and the light, and hearing church bells in themorning that make it feel magical.

“It is somewhere wonderful to escape to.”

Words by Sarah Sinclair, photography by Nick Read

For more information on Southwold visit

www.exploresouthwold.co.uk

For information on 54 Lancaster Court


www.exploresouthwold.co.uk/lancastercourt


The brightly coloured ceramics in thewindow of Thea Cutting’s gallery catchthe eye of passers by as they make theirway into the centre of Southwold.

Many wander in to have a better look at her collections – and, depending onthe day – they might find Thea herselfsitting at a table sketching out some new designs.

Gallery Thea is a quiet yet industriousoperation, from which the artist dubbed“the new Emma Bridgwater” is makinga name for herself.

Her designs are being recognisedfurther afield than the arts and craftsscene of Southwold and her pieces arebeing snapped up by customers as faraway as the States.

“It is very exciting being so busy,” saysThea. “I used to do a lot more paintingmyself but now I tend to concentrate on the designs and other people paintin the colour – and I am continuallylooking for ways to add to what we do as well as to bring out new collections.”

Thea’s style has an almost picture book-like quality to it. Her designs have beenlikened to those of well-known children’sillustrator Quentin Blake, and it is easyto see why. Many embody gentlereferences to her Suffolk coastal locationbut all have an upbeat sense of funabout them.

Her pieces are eye-catching and brightlycoloured, featuring bold images with adistinct hand-drawn quality.

“I think I have been influenced bychildren’s drawings,” she says. “I wouldlove to write and illustrate children’sbooks at some time in the future.

Living and working on the Suffolk and Norfolk border, cera

C o a s t a l


“There is no doubt, as well that the seaside location has also had an influence.”

Thea, who was born and went to schoolin Ipswich, studied Graphic Design atSuffolk College before going to York,where she focused on Sculpture andDesign Craft, and then took a degree inCeramics and Glass.

After college, she began to teachpainting, glass painting and mosaic-making through workshops, and shealso taught pottery in schools.

“When I was doing the teaching andworkshops, I would decorate a lot of theceramics myself to put on display sopeople would know where they couldcome in,” she explains.

“Before long, passers by were coming in to ask me to do something especiallyfor them.”

The next step was to launch a websiteand with that came further success. Soon orders were coming in from acrossthe UK, Europe and beyond. Eventuallyshe took on the shop in Southwold –and since then business has been busy.

Current ranges include her Seasidecollection, featuring beach huts, light houses and sea gulls. Her Olivecollection has a more Mediterraneanstyle while other ranges are almost seasonal.

Also popular at the moment are her plates for Queen Elizabeth II’sDiamond Jubilee.

The Suffolk coast will always feature in her designs, she stresses. She enjoysbeing based in Southwold and hopes to see her pieces being sold in seasidelocations in Norfolk as well before too long.

“In the future I would like to be betterknown and to be able to get into thedesign of fabrics and wallpaper,” she says. “I have got so many ideas –and my passion really is for coming up with new designs.”

For more information on Gallery Thea visit the

shop on Station Road, in Southwold or go online

at www.gallerythea.co.uk or call 01502 722433

amicist Thea Cutting draws inspiration from her surroundings

C o l o u r

NATURE TRAIL

Discover marsh harriers, bitterns, elusive kingfishers

and rare orchids in the wild heart of the Broads.

Only 10 miles from Norwich.For more information and opening times visitwww.rspb.org.uk/strumpshawfen or ring 01603 715191

EVERYONEWELCOME

Strumpshaw FenVisitnature reserve soon.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654. 380-1354-10-11 Strumpshaw Fens by Mike Richards (rspb-images.com)

��An amazing day in a magical

place! I haven’t felt so

relaxed in ages.

��

DunwichThe stunningly beautiful beach atDunwich is bordered with sandy cliffsand lowland heath, creating a patchworkcarpet of pink and purple heather andyellow gorse.

It is tucked away, offering peace andtranquillity and there are many speciesof wildlife, from seals to woodlarks towatch and enjoy.

It offers visitors scenery that is serene in places and wild in others, and theycan wander freely between the heathand the beach.

Suffolk’s wonderful coastline featureseverything from cliffs to creeks – and for thoseseeking to escape the seaside crowds, there arealso secluded beaches where they can bask insolitude and silenceWords by Sheree Hanna, photography by Nick Read


Seclude


d Sands

KessinglandKessingland beach offers the perfectspot to bathe in peace and quiet, whilepossibly playing hopscotch with theincoming tide.

The beach is actually a mix ofmarshland, shingle and sand andstretches for miles towards Lowestoft inthe north and Southwold in the south.It is undoubtedly one of those Suffolkgems that few people have discovered –and those who do know about it, prefernot to tell anyone else...

The beautiful beach is part of theSuffolk Coastal Footpath and is perfectfor those who enjoy long walks.

Orford NessOrford Ness is an internationallyimportant site for nature conservationand features a 10-mile long, shingle spitwith marshes, lagoons and waterways.

Visit the wild beach here and believeyourself to be the only person betweensand and sky.

The area is steeped in history, legendand mystery - during the 1800s, itbecame a haunt for smugglers.

While you are here, follow thewaymarked trails through a variety ofenvironments, including saltmarshes,mud flats, lagoons and protectedvegetated shingle.

CovehitheCovehithe’s deliciously deserted beachand breath-taking coastal pathway issituated about five miles north-east of Southwold and eight miles south of Lowestoft.

It was previously known as North Halesand during the Middle Ages itprospered as a small coastal town.

However, like many areas of the Suffolkcoastline, by the 17th century it hadfallen victim to coastal erosion, and thelarge church, which had been built on the back of its wealth was mostlypulled down.

The path to the beach passes theimpressive-looking ruins of the oldchurch and nestled inside is itsreplacement, St Andrew Church, which is well worth taking a look at.


Watching the mist rise above the river or the sun come up over the sea, there is noth


hing quite as enjoyable as an early morning walk when few others are out and about

Suffolk has an abundance of captivatingareas to explore on foot, from the firstlight of dawn right through until dusk.

The Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area ofOutstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is one of Britain’s finest naturalenvironments, for example.

This takes in some 150 square miles ofthe county and includes landscapes asdiverse as the beautiful wetlands, ancientheaths and stretching shingle beaches.

Those prepared to attempt a long-distance walk could try the 50-mileSuffolk Coast path, from Felixstowe toLowestoft, while those happy to go alittle further could take the 60-mile hikealong the Sandlings Walk, betweenIpswich and Southwold.

Walkers keen to indulge in some wildlifewatching, could also head to Minsmere– another glorious location from early in the morning.

Here, against a backdrop of woodland,wetland or coastal scenery, they mightspot a marsh harrier, otter or evenperhaps a bittern.

Dunwich Heath is another beautiful area to stroll through. Here walkers will find three waymarked trails, linkingthe heath with the beach. This dramaticand colourful landscape is home to thelikes of the Dartford warbler, nightjarand woodlark.

The area between Dunwich andWalberswick also offers somemagnificent coastal walking.

Walkers should try starting atWalberswick, then pass throughWestwood Marshes, which is part of theWalberswick National Nature Reserve.

After reaching Dunwich, which was oncethe largest Medieval town in the region,they can then return along the coast.

Inland, there are plenty of walks that willtake the rambler through Suffolk’spretty villages and market towns. TheBigod Way, for example, goes along theriver bank, as well as down quiet lanes,footpaths and tracks.

Those keen to follow it should start atBigod’s Castle, in the centre of Bungay,and follow the river to Earsham, beforecoming up into the Bath Hills,overlooking the Waveney Valley, andjoining the Angles Way. This walk isabout 5.5 miles and heads back into thetown at the end.

Alternatively, hikers could try a Waveney Valley walk between Becclesand Geldeston.

They should start in attractive Becclesand then head off next to the river untilthey reach the village of Geldeston.

Then they cross the marshes and return to Beccles, once again along theAngles Way.

Words by Mary Williams, photography by Nick Read

For more information on these walks try:

www.rspb.org.uk

www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunwich-heath

www.discoversuffolk.org.uk


EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Come along to Minsmere, your

local RSPB nature reserve and shop

Get a breath of fresh air • Wildlife of all shapes and sizes

• Great views • Friendly staff • Good value and high

quality shopping • Home cooked food

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654 380-1092-11-12 Mike Reid (rspb-images.com)

Find out more at www.rspb.org.uk/minsmereor scan this...


Exquisitely blending stunning, contemporary architecturewith the remains of a medieval chapel, one of Norfolk’slesser known historic buildings is waiting to be discovered

c h a r a c t e r

AT THE PENNOYER CENTRE

• The Café is open Monday to Saturday,

9.30am to 4pm

• Evening Inn, a pub night with

local ales and live music, is held

on the first Friday of every month,

6.30pm to 11.30pm

• The Farmers’ Market takes place

on the third Saturday of every month,

from 10am to 1pm

From the Middle Ages through to thenew millennium, The Pennoyer Centre,tucked away in tranquil Pulham St Mary,spans the centuries.

The award-winning building brings the remains of a 15th century guildchapel, and its Victorian extension,together with an eye-catching, 21st century atrium.

The restoration project, overseen byNorfolk architects Lucas HickmanSmith, has created a new village centre,as well as a superb exhibition space, caféand backdrop for music festivals, filmnights and farmers’ markets.

Now glass, steel and oak contrastsharply with brick and stone, and lightstreams into contemporary spaces,which have been designed for practicalmodern day use but still evoke thefascinating history of the building.

Trustee Karin Curruthers explains the centre has now been open some

18 months and is already well-used bythe local Norfolk community, as well as many visitors to the area.

“What we have going on here is wideand varied, and some of the events arereally quite busy. We had an exhibitionhere over a recent weekend, whichbrought in more 1,000 visitors,” she says.

“Our café serves good quality food,created wherever possible, with fresh,local produce. We do great lunches anddelicious homemade cakes.”

And she adds: “The area aroundPulham St Mary is superb for walkingand cycling – we are not far from The Boudicca Way – so it is the idealplace for people to stop, have a look at the fascinating building and havesome refreshment.”

The original flint chapel that was on thesite is thought to have been built back in1401. By the end of Henry VIII’s reign,however, guild chapels had been

dissolved and the building was beingused by villagers as a manorial court.

In 1670, wealthy businessman andphilanthropist William Pennoyerendowed the creation of a school in his will, thereby ensuring the survival of the building.

It remained a school for more than 300 years, admitting girls in the 18th century and seeing an extensionsome 100 years later. It closed in 1988,however, falling into a state of disrepairuntil restoration work began in February 2009.

“It almost became dilapidated but ateam of very dedicated people weredetermined to bring it back to life –and what a brilliant legacy it is nowgoing to be for the people of the countyand visitors to Norfolk.”

Words by Abigail Saltmarsh, photography by Nick Read

For more information visit www.pennoyers.org.uk


b u i l d i n g

UNIQUELY AWAY SUMMER 2012

coffee with the girls?

lunch with friends?

afternoon tea catch up?

what about

ormaybe

We are open: Mon - Sat | 10am - 5pmSunday | 11am - 5pm

Enjoy fairtrade tea & coffee, sandwiches, home-made cakes and scrumptious scones.

Delicious lunches served daily

Call: 01603 218 322www.cathedral.org.uk

fancy

RefectoryRestaurant & Coffee Shop

enjoy our

Griffin Lane, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich NR7 0SLTel: 01603 701701

E-mail: [email protected]

Coach operators – we offer private groupcharter cruises of Old Norwich, the Broads or

a combination of both. Minimum cruise length is 2 hours and we

can provide buffet lunches, cream teas, lightbites etc. on-board.

We also offer two ‘combined’ tours:Cathedral and Cream Tea Cruise @ £22 perhead (minimum 30). Gardens and Galleys

Cruise @ £19 per head (minimum 30). Details of both cruises can be given by

telephoning or e-mailing us.

CITY B ATS


Uniquely NorwichFrom its ancient cobbled streets and Medieval buildings to the

magnificent modern architecture of The Forum and Cathedral,

Norwich offers its visitors a very special experience

Photograph courtesy of Visit Norwich Ltd


Photograph 1, 4, 5, 8, 9 and 10 by Nick Read

Photograph 2, 3, 6 and 7 courtesy of Visit Norwich Ltd

When the sun shines, the parks, stepsand cafés of the city are full of peoplemaking the most of the weather andenjoying the unique experience of beingin Norwich.

On less clement days, there are themuseums, theatres, cinemas andbeautiful buildings to enjoy.

Norwich has a very individual characterand some exceptional qualities thatmake it quite unlike any other holiday destination.

Yet to many, it remains undiscovered,according to Melanie Cook, marketingand pr executive for Visit Norwich.

“We often have people who arrive hereand are then so surprised. They admitthey did not realise just what we have to

offer and it soon becomes clear theycan’t do everything they want to in onevisit,” she says.

Perceived as a sleepy city, somewhat off the beaten track, Norwich is, theysoon realise, a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered.

As well as proximity to the gloriousNorfolk Coast, the beautiful Broads andso many attractive country spots, it offersa wealth of cultural experiences, avibrant arts scene and a splendid arrayof shops, restaurants, pubs, bars andfamily activities.

And the numerous, less celebrated,delights range from the likes of theHenry Moore and Picasso pieces to beviewed at the Sainsbury Centre forVisual Arts through to the preserved

1

Uniquely

Norwich

2

3

4

6


remains of a Norman stone townhouse,underneath the Magistrates’ Court.

Cecile Tuddenham, marketing managerof Norwich Cathedral, said many of the attractions themselves had lesserknown aspects.

“The Cathedral, for example, has a veryhigh profile, with visitors coming fromall parts of the UK and abroad to see it,”she says.

“But while they come to see the church,they don’t always know about everythingelse we have here. We did a visitors’survey last year and one of the questionswe asked was: ‘Will you be coming back?’

“Most people said: ‘Yes.’ They felt theyhad not seen everything they wanted to see.”

One of the latest attractions at theCathedral is new Refectory Restaurant,where modern architectural design sitsalongside the Norman stonework of theold building.

The herb garden, the art exhibitions inThe Hostry, the library and the readingroom, are just some of the other lessfamiliar attractions.

“Then there is also the 44-acre Close,which feels very like a village,” she adds.“This is right in the middle of the city,and is very green, and here people canwalk down to the river.”


www.visitnowich.co.uk

Did you know?

• Norwich has more than 1,500

historic buildings

• It has over 30 Medieval churches –

more than any other city north

of the Alps

• Norwich Market is 900 years old and is

the largest six-day-a-week, open air

market in the country

• The Forum houses Europe’s biggest

digital screen gallery, Fusion

• More than 40 per cent of shops in

Norwich are independent

• The city has the largest, intact,

Medieval street pattern in Europe

5

7

8 9

10

For a truly special and unique dining experience in Norwich, look no further than The Dining Rooms at Cinema City. Housed in glorious vaulted rooms, formerly a buttery, and a smaller Georgian panelled room, The Dining Rooms offer fabulous à la carte dishes and delicious informal alternatives to the Bar menu.

Our menu boasts a wealth of seasonal produce from independent local suppliers and offers classic British dishes with an international influence, all prepared and cooked with skill, care and simplicity. Come and enjoy excellent cooking and service in our beautiful surroundings.

In addition to The Dining Rooms and The Bar, Cinema City has seating in a beautiful covered medieval courtyard and on a terrace at the front of the building.

Booking and Enquiries: 07504 356378 www.norwichdiningrooms.co.uk

The Dining Rooms

at

Norwich

RD

msoRoiningD

eTh

R

msoRo


In the SIt has been a busy time for Georgina“Piggy” French – not only has she hadthe usual events to prepare for butthere’s also Britain’s biggest sportingoccasion to consider.

As the country has been gearing up forthe Olympics, Piggy, 31, has beenenjoying a series of successes at otherevents while also, along with otherriders, contending with the appalling weather.

“Events up and down the country havebeen cancelled because of the rain andthe waterlogged ground, which isunfortunate but there is little we can doabout it,” she says. “I should find outsoon, however, whether I have beenselected for the Olympic team, which isvery exciting.”

Piggy, who now lives in the Midlands,was brought up in the South Norfolkvillage of Shotesham, attending schoolat Saxlingham Nethergate and thenBeeston Hall.

Her mother and two sisters were alsoequestrian enthusiasts and she cannotremember a time when she did notenjoy being in the saddle.

“I was probably riding before I couldwalk,” she admits. “I have loved horsesand ponies all my life and knew Iwanted to be involved with them in oneway or another but it was a long timebefore I thought I was good enough tomake a career of it.”

It was, in fact, when she was 15, that shehad her first big win. This came in 1996,with her Junior horse Lloyds Gamble.

“I did my GCSEs and then started atsixth form college but I would comehome every weekend to spend time withhorses and soon realised that I didn’twant to study, I wanted to ride.

“I was very fortunate that I could beginby taking local work, riding people’sponies for them and mucking out their stables. I was gaining experienceby riding lots of different horses andbefore I knew it, I was competing moreand more.”

Her first real breakthrough came withRebecca Finch’s Flintlock II, who tookPiggy to her first Badminton in 2003.He was also her team gold medal-winning horse at the Young RiderEuropean Championships in 2001,where they finished fourth individually.

Norfolk’s own Piggy French is an international event rider. Abigail S

This Sporting Life


SaddleIt was from there that Piggy’s eventingcareer went from strength to strength,and today she is established as one ofthe country’s leading riders and amember of the UK’s World Class Squad.

Heading her impressive string of horsesare Wally French and MichaelUnderwood’s Jakata, who took her tothe 2010 World Equestrian Games andthe 2011 European Championships,and DHI Topper W on whom Piggy wonthe London 2012 Test Event in 2011.

So far this year, Piggy has beenconstantly on the go, travelling thelength and breadth of the country tocompete and try out new horses. It hasbeen disappointing that events such asBadminton and Chatsworth have beenwashed out, but there is still thehighlight of the sporting world to lookforward to.

“I should find out soon if I have a placeon the Olympic team – there will be five of us altogether, men and women,”she says.

“If I am selected, it will be everything tome. The Olympics is what I have beenworking towards - and the fact it is goingto be held here in Britain makes it evenmore special.

“This is never going to happen again inmy lifetime.”

Piggy, who moved from Norfolk to theMidlands, as it was easier to travel toevents, believes she had a good start withher riding from her Shotesham base.

“My mother still lives in Norfolk, atNorth Elmham, so I return frequently.Norfolk is a beautiful place, a lovely partof the world. I have really enjoyed ridingand spending holidays up on the coastthere over the years.

“I also still enjoy competing at GreatWitchingham International Horse Trialsand at Burnham Market,” she says.

And she adds: “Horses are my passion -and I do feel very lucky to be able towork with them as I do.

“There is nothing quite like the feelingyou get when you succeed at acompetition with a horse you havetrained. You just feel so proud.”

Portrait by Tony Meredith, other photography by

Trevor Holt / www.kingfishermediaservices.com

For more information on Piggy French visit

www.piggyfrench.co.uk

Saltmarsh found out more about her hopes for success this summer


Sheree Hannasuggests an event for each week...

National Trust / M

atthew A

ntrobus

...in the Editor’s Diary

For more information call 01692 583099 or visit www.stalhamwithhappingfestival.co.uk

For more information call 01366 328258 or visit

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/oxburghhall

Saturday 2 June

Stalham with Happing FestivalStalham and Broadland VillagesFolk group Stone Angelis set to mark the start of thesixth annual Stalham withHapping Festival of the Arts.

The entertaining group, whowill perform at 7.30pm, playMedieval instruments.

This year’s festivalincorporates events

at Stalham and surroundingvillages, situated from TheBroads to along the coast.

They include concerts,featuring classical and jazzmusic, carnival parades andeven an archaeologicalexhibition at Waxham GreatBarn, where visitors canbring along their own finds.

Saturday 16 June and Sunday 17 June

Boys and Their ToysOxburgh HallCelebrate Father’s Day atOxburgh Hall at the Boysand Their Toys weekend.

There will be displays by a number of model clubs,including boats, which will be floated on themoat, model aircraft andeven a model railway.

A war games society willstage an event and theBittern Amateur RadioClub will be broadcastfrom the hall.

The fun will run from11am to 4pm on both days.

For more information call 01328 713111 or visit www.holkham.co.uk

Friday 8 June

Kungsbacka Piano TrioHolkham HallClassical music lovers shouldhead to the Marble Hall atHolkham for an evening ofchamber music performed by the award-winningKungsbacka Piano Trio.

The trio won first prize in the prestigious MelbourneInternational ChamberMusic Competition in 1999.

The Holkham programmewill include Beethoven’sKakadu Variations Op 121 and Piano Trio in E Flat Op1 No 1, andTchaikovsky’s Piano Trio in A Minor Op 50.

The performance starts at 7pm.


More dates...

For more information call 01728 687100 or visit www.aldeburgh.co.uk

Friday 20 June to Sunday 22 July

Aldeburgh World OrchestraSnape MaltingsSpecially created for theLondon 2012 Festival, theAldeburgh World Orchestrabrings together acclaimedBritish conductor, Sir MarkElder and 124 top-calibreyoung artists aged 18 to 29from across the globe.

The group will perform some of the most thrillingorchestral repertoire of thelast 100 years includingStravinsky’s Rite of Spring,the Sinfonia da Requiem byBritten and Shostakovich’sSymphony No 5.

For more information call 01603 748931 or visit www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk

Wednesday 27 June and Thursday 28 June

Royal Norfolk ShowRoyal Norfolk ShowgroundHead to Norfolk’s largestannual event in the lastweek of June.

The Royal Norfolk Showoffers the perfect family day out.

From spectacular displaysin the Grand Ring, totraditional livestock and

equine classes, there issomething to appealacross the ages.

Highlights this yearinclude the RAF FalconsFreefall Parachute Team,the British ImperialMilitary Band and theHousehold CavalryMusical Ride.

For more information call 01603 782558 or visit www.hovetonhallgardens.co.uk

Sunday 1 July to Tuesday 31 July

Sculpture TrailsHoveton Hall GardensJuly sees the world of artcome alive at Hoveton HallGardens with the introductionof new sculpture trails.

Working with local artists theformal gardens, woodland and

water gardens will display adiverse range of inspirationaland engaging sculpture.

Children are also includedwith a sculpture trailspecifically designed for them.

For more information call 01603 218450 or visit www.cathedral.org.uk

Wednesday 11 July to Saturday 14 July

Shakespeare Festival 2012Norwich CathedralThe atmospheric setting of the Norwich CathedralCloister is once again to be the venue for theShakespeare Festival 2012.

The GB Theatre Company is returning to perform The Tempest and The Taming of the Shrew.

Norwich Cathedral is one ofseveral venues the company isvisiting during its 2012 tour,which is this year directed byJenny Stephens, director ofBBC Radio 4’s The Archers,and Jack Shepherd of ITV’sWycliffe fame.

Each performance will start at 7pm.

➸


For more information call 01283 820548 or visit www.craft-show.co.uk

Friday 10 August to Sunday 12 August

Sandringham Crafts, Arts and Sculpture Fair, SandringhamThis is one of the mostprestigious craft shows in thecalendar, enjoyed by craftspeople and visitors alike.

Skills such a wood turning,glass blowing and lace makingwill be demonstrated, and

there will be falconry displays,ferret races and puppet showsthroughout the day.

In addition, the very popular chainsaw carvers will be returning to show offtheir skills.

For more information call 01692 630593 or visit www.wherryalbion.com

Tuesday 14 August

Wherry Albion Open DayHorning

Visit a traditional Norfolkwherry boat, meet hermodern day crew and findout how she earns a livingtoday at a special open day inHorning, in Norfolk.

Wherry Albion is a nationaltreasure, which was builtspecifically as a sailing tradingbarge for The Broads.

There were originally about300 of these Broadland craft,but today Albion is one ofonly two to have survived.

Albion will soon beappearing in a newdocumentary for BBC2.

For further information call 01328 730357 or visit www.northnorfolkmusicfestival.com

Wednesday 22 August to Sunday 2 September

North Norfolk Music FestivalThe North Norfolk MusicFestival is now in its eighth year.

This concert will be held inSt Mary’s Church, EastRaynham, and starts at 6pm.

It features Laura Samuel onviolin and Simon Rowland-Jones on viola. They willperform a programme ofmusic by Bach.

For more information visit www.holkham.co.uk or call 01328 713111

Wednesday 1 August and Tuesday 7 August

Outdoor Theatre, Holkham Park

Take the family along toenjoy performances in thefresh air in Holkham Park.

Holkham’s outdoor theatreprogramme for 2012includes two wonderfulproductions aimed atchildren, but adults areguaranteed to enjoy them too.

On Wednesday 1 August, at6.15pm, the BlunderbusTheatre Company willperform The Owl Who WasAfraid of The Dark, which isbased on the classic children’sbook by Jill Tomlinson.

Then on Tuesday 7 August,at 6.15pm, The Pantaloonshave adapted Grimm’s FairyTales for the stage.

For more information call 01692 535620 or visit www.worsteadfestival.org

Saturday 28 July and Sunday 29 July

Worstead Festival, Worstead

For a weekend of traditionalNorfolk fun, head toWorstead Festival.

Visitors can try their hand atthrowing wellies and haybales or can enjoy othertraditional attractions, such

as the local weaver’s group,heavy horses and farmingmachinery.

New to this year’s line-up is afood theatre, which aims togive local chefs the chance todemonstrate their talents.


For more information call 0870 3331181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Sunday 26 August and Monday 27 August

Medieval MayhemFramlingham CastleTake a step back in time to Medieval England at magical FramlinghamCastle this bank holiday weekend.

Visitors will findthemselves in the 15thcentury via an array ofspectacular arena shows,

insightful historicaldemonstrations andplenty of opportunities for hands-on experiences.

A full programme ofpomp and pageantry willrun from 11am to 5pmon each day.

Where to stay...Bagthorpe Hall Bed and Breakfast, at Bagthorpe, near Bircham, King’s Lynn –quiet and peaceful, surrounded by trees of up to 300 years-old, with extensivegardens and set in open countryside. Big rooms, big beds, organic andhomemade breakfast. Just 10 minutes from Burnham Market. Call 01485 578528 or visit www.bagthorpehall.co.uk

Church Farm Barns, at Wickmere, an idyllic rural getaway. Here, there are threebarn cottages around a courtyard garden. The cottages sleep two to 17 people,and are ideal for exploring The Broads, coast and local National Trust properties. Call 01263 577300 or visit www.churchfarmbarnsnorfolk.co.uk

Home Hall Bed and Breakfast at Great Hockham, Norfolk, between Wattonand Thetford. A fantastic base to explore the Brecklands. Luxury en-suite rooms.Evening meals offered. Call 01953 498985 or visit www.homehallbedandbreakfast.com

Where to eat...Try, Butlers Restaurant, of Holt, where you can enjoy locally sourcedproduce at its best. Visit Appleyard,Holt, NR25 6BN, call 01263 710790or visit www.butlersrestaurants.com

For interior design...Swank Interiors, Bressingham, for arange of fabrics, wallpaper, paint andhome accessories. Visit the showroom at Three Gates Farm, Fen Street,Bressingham, IP22 2AQ,call 01379 687542 or visitwww.swankinteriors.co.uk


N O R F O L K ’ S F I N E S T

�� Chauffeured Travel

We will take you to any destination -airports, seaports, conferences and business meetings.

We use environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles wherever possible

AIRPORTS: Stansted, Heathrow, Luton, Gatwick London City, Manchester, East Midlands

SEAPORTS: Harwich, Dover, Southampton

CITY DESTINATION: Cambridge, Oxford, Birmingham, Edinburgh

Travel in relaxed comfort at your convenience. Any travel time, day or night can be pre-booked.

For further information and online bookingplease visit our website: www.analem.co.uk

email: [email protected]: 01603 434464

If you have never travelled with us before, please contact us.Mention code NEWCUSTOMER10 for £10 off your first booking.

“A comfortable stress free journey, a courteous and friendly driver – perfect beginning and end to a trip away – we thank you very much!” HG, Norwich “I needed to get to Birmingham for a 0900 meeting. The train times were impossible. Analem got me there on time and were very competitively priced.” GW, Norwich

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http://www.caithness-crystal.co.uk/

From gleaming paperweights to vibrantornaments, the King’s Lynn CaithnessCrystal studio is known for its colourfuland eye-catching glass. Pieces madethere by artisans such as Stephen“Beaver” Bone have become collectors’items yet many are also exclusive worksof art, designed in celebration of anevent or occasion.

Mark Sander, managing director of thecompany, says many of these werelimited editions, in production for a short time only.

“At the moment, for example, we arecreating a limited edition, hand-engraved paperweight to celebrate theQueen’s Diamond Jubilee,” he says. “It isbeing hand-made in our Norfolk centreby Beaver, our master glassmaker, whohas more than 40 years experience.”

Visitors to the centre can watch Beaverand his colleagues create a range ofitems. Under his watchful eye, they canalso attempt glass blowing or can createtheir own unique paperweight, vase oreven hand or foot cast.

“Our glassmaking demonstrations takeplace all year round, from Monday toFriday. We do also have special eventsfrom time to time,” says Mark.

Also in celebration of the Queen’sDiamond Jubilee, Caithness Crystal hascommissioned Lilliput Lane to producea model of St Mary Magdalene Church,on the Sandringham Estate.

“Sandringham has been the privatehome to four generations of sovereigns,”he says. “The house was first opened tothe public in 1977 – The Queen’s SilverJubilee year – so it is most fitting thatCaithness Crystal has decided to do thisat this time.”

For more information on the celebratory items

or on the Visitor Centre, Paxman Road,

King’s Lynn, PE30 4NE, call 01553 765111

or visit www.caithness-crystal.co.uk


Caithness Crystal’s glassmakingtechniques may have a long history but,when it comes to keeping up with thetimes, the Norfolk company sets ashining example

A Touch of Glass


Are you local yourself? Yes, I grew upin Hemblington, in Norfolk, beforemoving into central Norwich. I livedand worked in London for a while butdecided to come back to settle here.

Why Norwich? I have always been soproud of this area. It is such a beautifulplace, with so much history, and yet youcan also enjoy a wonderful, easy life here– everything you could possibly want isin this city.

In your opinion, what makes Norwich so appealing to visitors?Unlike somewhere like Cambridge, forexample, which has its university, there’sno one thing here; instead, there is anincredible mixture. We have thebeautiful architecture, the fantasticshopping, which includes so manyindependent shops selling Norfolk-made produce, and attractions andactivities that are suitable for adults, as well as children.

What would you suggest people do if they were in Norwich for just oneday? I would start with the heritage.The Norwich 12 buildings arewonderful and span 1,000 years ofhistory in the city, and many of them arefree. I would also suggest a blue badgeguided walking tour. These are only £4and last 90 minutes; this is a great way tosee some of the hidden parts of the cityand to hear about some of the veryinteresting buildings you mightotherwise walk straight past.

Tell us about some of Norwich’shidden gems? The Plantation Garden,off Earlham Road, is one. This is alsoknown as “the secret garden” and is the

perfect place to spend a summer’safternoon or to have a picnic. Thenthere is the Sainsbury Centre for VisualArts, which has so much “wow factor”but does not always get the attention itdeserves as it is out of the city. This hassome wonderful pieces of art, as well as anew sculpture garden and café. Anotherplace well worth a visit is Upper St Giles,with its beautiful buildings andinteresting shops.

Is there anything new for thissummer? We have the Olympic torch relay (Wednesday 4 July andThursday 5 July) then the Lord Mayor’s Celebrations (Thursday 5 Julyto Sunday 8 July), which will have anOlympic theme, and will see all sorts of exciting new events taking place rightacross Norwich. The Bridewell Museumwill reopen this summer, which is veryexciting, and the Norwich Castle Studycan now be enjoyed completely free by small groups of visitors. This is an amazing resource, where you can see more than 40,000 pieces from the collections.

Do you have any final suggestions forvisitors? This is a city that over-deliversin terms of art and culture – we havesuch a rich tapestry of galleries, theatresand places like Cinema City. Then if youwant to get out of the city, it is very easyto reach the beautiful coast and somewonderful countryside from here. Don’tforget that Whitlingham Country Park isthe gateway to The Broads - here youcan walk or go out on a boat, just a shortwalk from the city.


www.visitnorwich.co.uk

Melanie Cook,marketing and pr executive for Visit Norwich

Photography by Nick R

ead

In the know

Next time you visit, why not stay a little longer?

The Squire’s Retreat

Documents

Uniquely Away Issue 1 - Summer 2012