Saturday 25 November 2017

Gooderstone Water Gardens, Norfolk

A very enchanting Water Garden
I have to say that we did not do it justice in taking in the whole garden. We were on our way home and had already spent most of the day at Oxburgh Hall which I will post on later. However what we did see was worth the visit.
13 bridges, natural trout stream, 4 ponds, nature trail, bird hide, otter pond, Kingfisher Hide, Monet Pond and more.



Billy Knights, a retired farmer began designing and creating the Water Gardens in 1970 in his 70th year. The site was a damp meadow which became too wet for cattle to graze. His son jokingly suggested a water garden which prompted him to draw out plans on a piece of wallpaper and it now gives enjoyment to many today.











Cafe and tearoom





Maybe we will get back sometime

Thursday 16 November 2017

A Late Afternoon Trip to the Local Farm Shop

Started taking some photos of what is left of Autumn colour this afternoon on our way to a local farm shop and......... can I put the 
i-pad down............ 





















The tearoom won a County competition as a place of excellence
 but not for us today, I need to get back.




Well at least it gave a break to Norfolk photos!

Sunday 12 November 2017

Bircham Windmill, Norfolk


This is a very unusual windmill. It is owned by a family. Built in 1846 and lovingly restored in 1970.
Not only do Stevie and Elly mill the flour but they also have a bakery on site where they make an amazing variety of breads.
They also have classes where they teach both children and adults how to make bread and a gift shop where I
 bought a lovely teapot to add to my collection.
They also have a great play area for children with sheep, goats, guinea pigs and rabbit for the children to handle.
The home made cakes in the tearoom were good too.


They also  ran a holiday cottage seen here on the right







There where six floors accessed by six separate ladders which got narrower the higher up one went.
I have to admit that after climbing this ladder I felt it was not a good idea to attempt another five with Sciatica issues.


So Alan went up and took these photos.







My only disappointment was that he did not go outside onto the platform (he's good with heights) when at the top to take photos of the surrounding countryside.
Whoever got to the top had their photo taken when they returned and it was put into an album. Alan had no intention of going back which was quite understandable for his 85 years.