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….

It sounds a great day and your mother looks so elegant and pretty.
Great day and you shared it with your mother which makes it special too.
Hi Ellee…seems to me, your mum and you had a brilliant day. I haven’t been to Norfolk for years..love Burnham Market.
Your mum looks amazing..:-)
Just look at the sea and blue skies!! How great for a day out.
Lovely photo Ellee. I must come up for some walking soon.
Who really cares about Prescott?
So John Prescott dissed Norfolk. Isn’t there a joke there somewhere?
(Diss, Norfolk)
Hare arms not far from where i live but years since i have been there
Sally, you are so lucky to live close to such beautiful countryside. Some of my happiest times have been spent in North Norfolk going back many years.
It sounds like a great day out and that is a wonderful photo 🙂
As Prescott never had any taste, it’s not a surprise he doesn’t like quality places.
Presscott is one of the least interesting people on the planet…
Maybe you should have asked them if they were related to John Prescott?
Great photo, your Mum looks great. Absolutely, don’t tell Prescott the Prat.
I prefer Suffolk but Shelley likes Wells-next-the-Sea. I should love Norfolk a little more since my Grandparents were both born there and my Grandfather’s family it seems were mostly Norfolk (inevitable my Genealogy interest would get mentioned on here sooner or later).
Oh, And I had some great Holidays in Norfolk on the Broads and at Bacton (near Happisburgh)
Have just moved to Norwich (Norfolk). The countryside and coast are amongst the best in the country, not as dramatic as Cornwall, but a great variety.
[…] locations.I have very happy memories of our family summer holidays spent in Burnham Market in North Norfolk. Those years are now behind me as my independent sons now prefer to spend their carefree days […]