LOCAL’S INSIDER: NORFOLK, ENGLAND

It’s always good to get a local’s inside scoop on a destination, and in this Q&A, Glynn Burrows, family history buff and owner of Norfolk Tours, shares what it’s like to live, work and play in Norfolk, a beautiful county within East Anglia, England, on Big Blend Radio. From the numerous historic churches and ruins, to the coast and countryside, Norfolk is a popular destination for those who love history, nature and places with an authentic ‘sense of place’.

1. What are some of your favorite things about living in Norfolk?

We are in the countryside and the sea is a few minutes drive away. Our history goes back to the earliest fossilised footprints outside of Africa, and we have hundreds of Medieval Churches and yet London is just a couple of hours away. The best of all worlds!

2. Out of town relatives come to visit for a weekend and you get to play tour guide. What’s on the agenda?

A trip to a ruined Saxon Church, a Norman Castle, The Queen’s private home at Sandringham and then Fish & Chips at Hunstanton, watching the sun set over the sea.

3. What are some things people may not know about Norfolk?

We are surrounded by water, as the County boundary is just about all water in one form or another. We have no motorways. Princess Diana was born here. We have more round-towered Churches than any other County in the Country.

4. What are your recommendations for date night in Norfolk?

An evening enjoying a romantic walk along the beach before a beautiful meal of local produce in an ancient country pub.

5. Where’s your favorite picnic spot, and local picnic food and drink?

A great place for a picnic is Holkham Hall, a Georgian Stately Hall with an amazing estate, lakes and beautiful gardens. To eat, I’d take a local salad with Cromer Crab, Samphire, brown Granary bread with pork pie and fresh tomatoes. Cheddar cheese & onion with crusty bread. Fresh strawberries and cream for dessert. Washed down with locally brewed beer and cider.

 6. If you could take a one hour walk in Norfolk, with anyone (alive or passed on), who would it be, and where are you walking?

I would walk along Peddars’ Way, a Roman Road with a Roman Centurian. See Glynn’s article on Peddar’s Way on NationalParkTraveling.com.

7. It’s always fun to learn a new trade or skill. Tell us what local job or business would you like to either start, or take over one day?

I’d like to run the local County Council!

8. What’s one of your favorite annual Norfolk events?

The Royal Norfolk Show is the biggest event in the County and I first went when I was at Primary School, aged about eight or nine. We, as Buy Local Norfolk, are increasing our presence every year and the two day event, although started as an agricultural show, it is now a showcase for all types of businesses. 

9. If you were given a blank check to host a party or gathering, what kind of event would you put together, and where?

I would put on a medieval fair in North Walsham, to commemorate the Peasant’s Revolt of 1381. It would show the way that the people lived and why they revolted.

10. Finish this sentence: I’m proud of my community because….

Norfolk has always been well known because we “do different” and being different makes us unique. I’m proud to be different.

Glynn provides customized, private tours and also helps his clients trace their English family history. Past guests have visited and experienced stately houses and gardens, castles and churches, ruins and villages, birding and wildlife, World War II airfields, and general area taster tours too. Accommodations can be in all types of establishment, from character buildings such as windmills, thatched cottages and castles, self-catering or five star luxury –  just say what you want and it can be arranged. Nothing is too much trouble for Glynn! Visit www.Norfolk-Tours.co.uk.