Supporting local businesses and farmers

It’s been hectic here in the heart of Norfolk, one way and another.   The drought and heat increased the workload caring for livestock and regrettably I haven’t shared much about what’s been happening. Where shall I start?

Firstly with the launch of our Non-Profit shop.  (Actually, it’s more like a stall but what it lacks in size it does not lack in quality).  This took place a few months ago. Having omitted to tell you about the opening it is now exciting to announce how successful it has been. The support of our guests by buying local has been overwhelming.

The free-range eggs produced on our smallholding from our rescued hens  were initially sold. All donations go towards the particular ‘Charity of the Year’.   Gradually other items have been added. Next it was ice-creams. Following on talented artists have stayed with us and been inspired. Wonderful paintings and sketches have been the result. Our current Janet Orpwood range of cards is very popular.

Our goal is sustainable tourism. Subsequently making a choice to support local businesses and farmers, based within 30 miles, has been a natural progression. All guests now have the opportunity to make a difference. They can enjoy our hand-picked selection of quality produce and gifts, as well as the goodies in The Huddle’s Welcome pack.

For example, on waking, get off to a flying start with a glass of Sandringham Apple Juice. It is pressed from premium apples grown on the royal Sandringham Estate. This juice offers all the considered health benefits. Sizzling rare pork or wild venison sausages from Martins Farm accompanied by a fresh free range egg will nourish you all day long. Alternatively you may chose one of the local artisan breads spread with non-heat treated honey from Paston Cottage Bees. Only the honey the bees don’t need is taken from the hives. Or indulge with one of Richard Bainbridge’s preserves. The Norfolk Quince jelly is a speciality.

For lunch grab some fresh salad ingredients from one of the local markets (market days listed in our What’s On calendar) and toss it in some cold pressed rape seed dressing from Yare Valley .  Whilst sitting back deciding what to do next, or as you immerse yourself in a good book a delicious gourmet cookie from The Norfolk Cookie Company may take your fancy or perhaps a few squares of decadently smooth and rich chocolate from local family business Harris & James, a Bean to Bar chocolate maker or a piece of melt-in-your-mouth Norfolk Fudge

Mouth watering aromas from Martins Farm free-range chicken and rare pork burgers cooking on barbeques over the summer months have been filling the air. The chef might might need a little snack during preparations. Here you can grab some Kettles Crisps, the UK’s No 1 premium crisp brand. The perfect accompaniment to glass of something. We can’t offer the alcoholic stuff, yet, but refresh yourself with one of the best tasting soft drinks, Posh Pop, chilled, straight from our fridge. Complete the day’s feasting with a luxury pot of Danns ice-cream, a premium range produced from their own dairy herd.

Taking home a little thank you for anyone watering the pots or putting the bin out couldn’t be easier. Tasty fare from Norfolk or a bar of pure and natural hand-made soap from the Norwich Soap Company

To further support local farmers and producers the details of local markets, farmers markets and artisan food fair events are given daily.  Dates are listed in our What’s On calendar.   On the other hand we have a whole array of award-winning farm shops and delis nearby but more about those later.

Together small choices can create a big impact and make a difference.