Normal for Norfolk

Norfolk… I've been lucky enough to live here for a long time. Its a beautiful place where there are miles of countryside and coast, and you trip over quirky charm with every step! As a jewellery designer inspired by this beautiful county, I want to take you on a little tour of one of Norfolk’s most quirky of spots, Wiveton. Here, there is a relaxed beauty, all the nostalgia of childhood activities and also the feeling that doing things the way you want to do them, is very much ok. In addition, if you haven't finished them, that that's entirely the norm too...Places like this make me feel really creative and it looks as though Emma Bridgewater felt the same, so I am not alone!

Its a strange but beautiful place. It reminds me of my childhood, of being able to roam through what appears to be a jungle of green with no thought as to what time it is. We went on the garden walk which takes you through some very overgrown areas winding around a path until you find the Jacobean hall with its windows thrown open and the feeling that someone might just appear from out of nowhere or that no-one will ever appear! Its like a forgotten corner. The highlight for me (aside from the bakewell tart!) was the kitchen garden. Rows of agapanthus hugged the walls and the herbs smelled divine. Weirdly enough there was a bird scarer in the middle of one flower bed made with a suit carrier flapping in the gentle breeze held up by an old fishing rod! 

The cafe (which is a must) is the most wonderful splash of colour.  There's a huge painting of the estate done by Desmond's mum and then a wall of art, brightly coloured paintings all floral and featuring norfolk fields. Every table cloth is different and is a bright pink, orange or blue floral design. And don't even get me started on the food - I had the most delicious Wiveton cheese salad which I couldn't finish.

If you watched 'Normal for Norfolk' a few years ago, you will still have Desmond McCarthey's eyebrows burned on your brain... and they are everywhere, I even managed to find some plastic glasses with furry eyebrows attached! I will very much enjoy drinking my coffee from my NFN mug in the shop!

As far as creativity is concerned, the quiet beauty of the place is enchanting. I bet you can appreciate that my head is currently cluttered with so many things shop related. The opportunity to escape somewhere in good company was like a breath of fresh air - although there wasn't much yesterday! I found some beautiful little stones in one of the walls which would make the most wonderful pair of earrings, so that's my first make next week! I'll keep you posted!