It’s John Prescott’s loss. And hooray for all Norfolk lovers. I am referring to his well publicised disdain of Norfolk. I spent a fabulous day there today with my mother Loula. I find those flint stoned coastal villages totally irristible.

In fact, rarely has it been so stunning and the air more intoxicating. We started our trip by stopping off for lunch at The Hare Arms in Stow Bardolph, famed for its collection of country memorabilia which hangs from every spare inch of wall and ceiling. You could spend hours eyeing up all the amazing artefacts.

I overheard a group of  young people on the table behind me talking about Hull, and it took all my self-restraint not to enquire if they knew the university there, and maybe even my son David who studies Economics there and is on an adventure in Spain with fellow students. When is it acceptable to admit to eavesdropping? I decided against owning up to this.

This great pub is also famed for its resident peacocks, but I was unable to locate any today, though I was assured that they were there.  I was reminded of their presence by the abundant peacock feathers displayed ornately in vases around us, but they seemed very dull and totally devoid of the brilliant blue and green colours which make these creatures so stunning.

As we headed into Burnham Market, I spotted a couple of Ferraris and other upmarket cars parked on the green. I have no idea why this area attracts so many yuppies. My mother loves the shops, particularly the one which sells those stunning hats, while I am a great country lover and adore the unspoilt natural habitat of this region. I love the narrow country lanes which have changed little since the days of my local hero, Lord Nelson. I love the miles of hedgerows and soft sand dunes.

What made this day so special was because Burnham Market, as well as other villages on our route, were not heaving with tourists. It made the day so much more pleasurable. Was the recession keeping them at bay?  Or was it simply too early in the season?

The bright blue sky was fanned gently by a smattering of coloured kites – and even the sea looked tempting for once –  making this a truly fabulous day. I can’t wait to go back soon. I’m longing to do a long coastal walk.

Psst, don’t tell Prescott….