I painted the Lobster design last summer when I was dreaming of escaping to the sea. The motif was inspired by weekends away along the coast, beach time, campfires, toasted marshmallows with friends, the quietness of a shack by the beach, where you can only hear the lapping of the waves and the wind on the sea.
Norfolk is a place that is very special to me; its golden beaches, fairytale flint cottages and windswept marshes were all in the back of my mind when taking to my sketchpad for this latest collection. I wanted to round up my top picks for a weekend away in Norfolk, so you too can be inspired by its natural beauty and magic. Expect sandy toes, salty hair and memories that will last a lifetime.
My Favourite Eats
Eric’s Fish & Chips (restaurants in Holt and Thornham) - Whether you’re taking them out to go sit on the beach or grabbing a table in the brightly-tiled dining room, Eric’s oozes seaside charm. Everything is homemade and the fish is as fresh as they come - they truly were the best fish and chips that I’ve ever tasted!
Head to Eric's for some of Norfolk's tastiest fish and chips!
The White Horse (Brancaster Staith) - Situated under Norfolk’s big blue skies with a view of the tidal marshes, The White Horse is a stunning lunchtime spot. We feasted on lobster and chips before taking a beautiful stroll along the marshland path - I’ve also heard that it’s a great place to catch one of Norfolk’s famous sunsets.
The Crown Inn (East Rudham) - Thais quaint country pub is a 15-minute drive from Sandringham and also just around the corner from Houghton Hall. Grab a sunny window seat or keep cosy by the wood-burning fires. I’ve been told that the Sunday roasts here are unbeatable also.
Happy times with friends (and dogs!)
My Favourite Beaches
Holme - a bit of a Norfolk hidden gem, Holme beach is a nature reserve, making it the perfect place to spot local wildlife. There is a lovely nature train round to the beach front, happy dog days! We had hot chocolates at the cafe and it was so peaceful and quiet.
Lamu in her element running along Holme's sprawling sands.
Holkham - Holkham Beach is stunning, it’s the only place I’ve ever been to where there is dense forest and beachside by side. All the best of nature! We spent the day there, such an adventure. Alex couldn’t resist diving into the ocean for a quick dip with Lamu. I have a booking on hold at the nearby Victoria Inn, which got pushed back due to covid. I can’t wait to stay there!
Brancaster - A pretty popular spot in the summer months, Brancaster beach is a beautiful place for a dip in the sea. It is owned by the National Trust and is really popular with dog walkers so expect to see lots of waggy tails.
Another day, another adventure!
My Favourite Stays
The Hoste (Burnham Market) - Expect cosy and elegant rooms, I loved the heron wallpaper and it’s delightfully dog-friendly. We enjoyed afternoon tea with jam and scones on arrival and it was the perfect spot for the weekend. I loved that it was in Burnham Market, a very vibrant, trendy and artsy English Village.
The Hoste's cosy interiors are perfect for warming up after a windy day at the beach.
The Ship (Brancaster) - This cosy pub is found at the top of the lane that leads right down to the seafront. The rooms are all unique, with gorgeous soft furnishings and comfy beds to sink into post-swim in the sea. The pub downstairs also does a mean Pimm’s, with a tasty menu of food also.
My Favourite Shops
Marsh & Flint (North Creake) - A very lovely boutique shop near Burnham Market. I bought lots of pieces for Meiri’s nursery here and the owner was absolutely lovely! She has a real eye for gorgeous things.
Interior heaven at Marsh & Flint!
Bombay Sprout (Burnham Market) - A charming boutique with accessories and homewares inspired and made in India. The founder, Zara has been designing and producing rugs for 17 years, working with a team of dedicated weavers to create the most beautiful products.
I would so love to hear your own Norfolk recommendations, do get in touch via our Instagram or Facebook. And to shop the new Lobster Collection, click here.
