Why This Year's Perseid Meteor Shower Is One You Won't Want to Miss

Every August, something extraordinary happens above our heads.

As the Earth travels through the trail of dust left behind by Comet Swift–Tuttle, tiny particles enter our atmosphere at incredible speeds, burning up in brilliant flashes of light. We know them as the Perseid meteor shower, one of the most spectacular celestial events of the year.

Why 2026 Is So Special

While the Perseids return every summer, this year offers unusually good viewing conditions. The shower reaches its peak on the night of 12–13 August, and, importantly, it coincides with a new moon. With virtually no moonlight to brighten the sky, darker conditions mean fainter meteors become visible, making this one of the best opportunities in years to experience the Perseids at their full potential. The best time to look up is between midnight and 4am, when the meteor shower is most active and the constellation Perseus is higher in the sky.

Why Dark Skies Matter

At Happy Valley, we're proud to be a recognised Dark Skies site. In a world where artificial light is becoming ever more common, truly dark skies are increasingly rare. Light pollution doesn't just affect our view of the stars - it disconnects us from one of nature's oldest and most awe-inspiring experiences. Standing beneath a sky filled with thousands of stars has a way of slowing us down. It reminds us how vast the universe is, how fleeting some moments can be and how important it is to pause every once in a while. Protecting dark skies isn't just about astronomy, it's about preserving wonder. Remember how good it felt to look up at the stars as a kid and think, ‘there must be something out there’? This is the perfect opportunity to recapture that nostalgia.

A Moment Worth Looking Up For

Whether you're watching from Happy Valley or from your own favourite dark spot, we hope you'll take the opportunity to experience this year's Perseid meteor shower. Take a blanket outside, give your eyes twenty minutes to adjust to the darkness, and then simply look up. Some of the most beautiful things in life aren't meant to last forever. They're simply there to remind us to be present. We hope the Perseids do exactly that.

Check our autumn/winter availability at Happy Valley Norfolk by clicking here.

For more information about the meteor shower, click here.

Wild Swimming Spots Near Happy Valley Norfolk

Wild Swimming Spots Near Happy Valley Norfolk

There’s something wonderfully freeing about swapping a swimming pool for the great outdoors. No chlorine. No lane ropes. Just fresh air, beautiful Norfolk scenery and the occasional duck.

Wild swimming has become one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in the UK, with more people discovering the physical and mental health benefits of swimming in lakes, rivers and the sea. Whether you're looking to improve your wellbeing, reduce stress or simply reconnect with nature, cold water swimming offers a unique experience that goes beyond traditional exercise. In fact, research has found that regular wild swimming can boost happiness, reduce anxiety and improve overall wellbeing, making it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Whether you’re a seasoned cold-water dipper or someone who simply fancies cooling off after a sunny walk, you’re spoilt for choice within 45 minutes of Happy Valley Norfolk. From sweeping sandy beaches to peaceful river spots, here’s our guide to some of the best places to take the plunge.

The psychological benefits of open-water (wild) swimming: Exploring a self-determination approach using a 19-country sample. Read the study.

Heacham South Beach (20 minutes)

If you’re staying with us, this is one of your closest seaside swims. Heacham South Beach is a wide, sandy stretch that’s perfect for a refreshing dip, especially around high tide. The water stays relatively shallow for quite a distance, making it a lovely spot for paddling before committing to a proper swim. Stay afterwards for one of Norfolk’s famous sunsets - they are spectacular over The Wash and make the post-swim fish and chips taste even better.

Hunstanton Beach (25 minutes)

Hunstanton isn’t just famous for its striped cliffs and ice cream. It’s also one of Norfolk’s most popular places for sea swimming, with seasonal lifeguards and plenty of facilities nearby. It’s ideal if you like your wild swimming with the option of a hot coffee 5 minutes later. Plus, if the North Sea feels a little too refreshing, you can always pretend that was your plan all along and retreat to the promenade.

Old Hunstanton Beach (30 minutes)

If you prefer your beaches a little quieter, head just around the corner to Old Hunstanton. Golden sand, grassy dunes and a more peaceful atmosphere make this one of our favourite spots for an early morning swim. The beach feels wonderfully unspoilt, and there’s plenty of space even on busy summer days. Bring a flask, watch the waves roll in and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Brancaster Beach (30 minutes)

Brancaster is one of Norfolk’s most beautiful beaches, with vast open sands and crystal-clear views stretching for miles. It’s fantastic for confident sea swimmers, although it’s worth remembering the tides here move quickly, so always check tide times before heading into the water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot seals bobbing about offshore.

Wells-next-the-Sea (35 mins)

A favourite with locals and visitors alike, Wells offers a huge sandy beach backed by pine woods and colourful beach huts. The walk from the car park is part of the adventure, and once you arrive you'll find plenty of room for a swim followed by a well-earned ice cream. The gently shelving beach makes it popular with families, but always keep an eye on the tides and swim where it's safe to do so.

River Nar at Castle Acre (20 minutes)

Fancy swapping salty sea air for peaceful riverside scenery? The River Nar near Castle Acre has long been a favourite with local wild swimmers looking for a quiet freshwater dip. Sheltered by trees and surrounded by countryside, it's a lovely spot on a warm summer's day. Do remember that rivers are very different from swimming pools. Water depth, currents and underwater obstacles can change, so it's best suited to experienced, confident swimmers.

More info here.

A Few Wild Swimming Tips

Wild swimming is magical, but Mother Nature doesn't provide lifeguards everywhere.

Before you dive in:

• Check tide times before swimming in the sea.

• Never swim alone.

• Enter the water slowly. It'll feel colder than you think, even in August.

• Wear a bright swim hat if possible so you're easy to spot.

• Leave the place exactly as you found it.

• If water quality has been affected by heavy rain or pollution, save your swim for another day.

Back to the Hot Tub?

Of course, if you've had quite enough "invigorating" water for one day, Happy Valley has a rather warmer alternative waiting for you. After your beach adventure, there's nothing quite like slipping into your own private hot tub with a drink in hand while planning tomorrow's Norfolk adventure. We can't promise you'll spot seals... but we can promise the water will be considerably warmer.

Happy dipping! 

Browse the very last of our summer availability by clicking here.

From: Monday 13th July, Monday 27th July, Monday 10th August, Monday 17th August, Monday 24th August. Click here to book.

Luke & Tamara’s Relaxed, Love-Filled Celebration at Happy Valley Norfolk

Some weddings have a certain magic from the moment guests arrive - and Luke and Tamara’s March celebration at Happy Valley Norfolk was exactly that.

Their day was effortlessly cool, deeply personal and filled with the kind of warmth that comes from bringing together the people who matter most. From heartfelt moments with family flying in from Germany to an unforgettable evening of music and dancing, every part of their wedding felt authentic to them.

Luke and Tamara created a celebration that was not only beautiful, but completely centred around connection, joy and shared memories.

A Warm Norfolk Welcome

Guests were welcomed in true Happy Valley style, gathering by Willow Island before the ceremony with mugs of warming Glühwein in hand. (That’s a German mulled wine for those who don’t speak German!)

It set the tone perfectly for the day ahead - relaxed, intimate and full of conversation. Friends and family mingled and embraced, with many meeting for the first time, others reuniting after years apart.

With Tamara’s family travelling from Germany to be part of the celebrations, the day felt especially meaningful. There was something incredibly special about watching two families and two worlds come together in one special place.

A Ceremony Surrounded by Love

As the ceremony began, the atmosphere shifted into something beautifully emotional.

Luke and Tamara’s connection was obvious to everyone in the room. There was a calmness between them, the kind that comes from deep friendship as much as love. Every glance, smile and quiet moment reflected just how in sync they are.

Their celebrant-led ceremony felt intimate and genuine, with every guest fully present to witness the start of this new chapter.

http://www.torihancock.com/

http://www.torihancock.com/

Transforming the Hay Barn

http://www.torihancock.com/

http://www.torihancock.com/

http://www.torihancock.com/

One of the most memorable parts of the day was the incredible transformation of our Hay Barn.

Luke and Tamara completely reimagined the space, turning it into an enchanting forest-inspired setting using dramatic tree branch installations and natural textures put together by the super talented Hannah Hunnum Flowers. The result was breathtaking - organic, atmospheric and unlike anything we’d seen before.

The styling brought the outdoors in, creating a space that felt immersive and magical while still retaining the rustic charm of our beautiful flint and brick barn at Happy Valley.

It was a perfect example of how couples can truly make our spaces their own.

Celebrating with Friends Who Create Magic

This wedding felt especially personal because so many of the talented suppliers involved were close friends of the couple.

Having friends contribute their creative talents added another layer of meaning to the day. Every detail felt thoughtful and collaborative, shaped by the people who know Luke and Tamara best.

That sense of community ran through the entire celebration. This wasn’t just a wedding - it was a gathering of a deeply connected group of people, all there to celebrate two people they love.

http://www.torihancock.com/

Dancing Until the Early Hours

http://www.torihancock.com/

When evening arrived, the energy shifted from emotional to electric.

Luke and Tamara’s friends took over the music, with an incredible DJ lineup made up entirely of people from their own circle. The dance floor stayed full as guests partied late into the night, creating the kind of atmosphere that can’t be manufactured!

The music, the lights, the laughter! Everything came together to create a night no one will forget. This was a crowd that knew how to celebrate, and they absolutely did.

Ending the Weekend Slowly at Toad Hall

One of our favourite parts of Luke and Tamara’s wedding story came after the celebration had ended.

Instead of rushing away the next morning, they chose to extend their stay with an extra night in Toad Hall, an optional post-wedding accommodation for couples.

After the music fades and guests head home, that extra time together can feel incredibly special.

It offers newlyweds a chance to slow down and simply enjoy being married without needing to immediately return to reality.

For Luke and Tamara, it was the perfect ending to an unforgettable weekend.

http://www.torihancock.com/

Planning Your Own Happy Valley Wedding

Luke and Tamara’s wedding beautifully captured what we love most about weddings at Happy Valley Norfolk: personality, creativity and genuine connection.

Whether you’re dreaming of a heartfelt ceremony on Willow Island, an otherworldly decor narrative or just a weekend-long celebration with your favourite people, Happy Valley offers the freedom to create a wedding that feels unmistakably yours.

We loved being part of Luke and Tamara’s story and wish them all the best on their journey together.

Email us at weddings@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk for our brochures.

Suppliers Caterer and Cake - Marianna Leivaditaki * Catering Staff - @forage.and.graze * Pizza Van - @sammywood2971 * Equipment/glass hire - @banquetinghire_official * Flowers - @hannah.hunnam * Photographer - @torihancock_photography

The Pre-Loved Pop Up, A Brocante-Style Vintage Haven

The Pre-Loved Market at Happy Valley Norfolk - A Note of Thanks

A huge thank you to everyone who came and made our second Pre-Loved Pop-Up Market what it was - a day of planet-friendly second-hand shopping that did wonders for the soul (and the purse-strings!)

If you’re drawn to pre-loved, brocante-style markets, vintage finds and pieces with a bit of story behind them, something is quietly taking shape at Happy Valley, and last weekend felt like one of those moments where it all clicked.

An Effortless Sense of Quality (and a Lack of Self-Control)

From the outset, each stall felt considered. Rails were full, but not overwhelming. There was no rummaging required, apart from a few bargain buckets where rummaging was absolutely encouraged. This organised presentation felt like a small luxury in itself. The market boasted a natural blend of vintage, designer pre-loved and everyday treasures, all sitting comfortably together under one roof. And within minutes the whole team had already found things we absolutely didn’t need, but very much didn’t want to leave behind. The balance of quality and affordability is a tricky one, but somehow our market got it right, and that is down to our mix of wonderful sellers who trusted Happy Valley to be a fun-filled, atmospheric backdrop for their treasures.

A Thoughtfully Curated Collective

We welcomed a mix of independent traders, collectors, makers and curators, all with a very good eye… and, in some cases, admirable restraint not to keep everything for themselves.

We would like to extend a special thanks to:

@whatlucyfound
@caughtmyeye_vintageshop
@nicolahartsart
@bignappizza
@thenorfolkatticandco
@jackaloejoecoffeeco
@dawnsemporiumnorfolk2020
@thesweetsensation2
@wearemayu
@secondchances1982
@claire_bond_norfolk_pickers
@thevintagehippyuk
@cobwebcottage
@mosaicmemories
@lonestarjack5225

…and to our brilliant public sellers, who proved that some of the best finds come from “I’ll just bring a few bits along”. Together, it created something that felt curated rather than chaotic, which is harder to achieve than it sounds.

A Slower Way to Shop

Shopping in this way is not only far more mindful and satisfying than shopping in a big, soulless department store, it’s also making such a big difference to the planet and to the small businesses who curate beautiful things for a living.

The Atmosphere

With the woodland in full sun, the whole day had an ease to it. People drifting rather than rushing, conversations happening without effort, friends and loved ones just moving more slowly as they took in the surroundings. It didn’t feel transactional, it felt social. And that’s the vibe that keeps people coming back to our markets: the feeling of community and doing something that really matters.

Looking Ahead

Naturally, the question now is: Do we do it again?

We’re considering:

• Another Pre-Loved Pop Up before the end of summer

• Or something a little bigger — a summer day gathering with food, music, and more of the same energy

But only if it feels right.

Would you come?

And for Winter…

One to get firmly in the diary:

Thursday 3rd December
The infamous Happy Valley Late Night Christmas Market

Same attention to detail. Different season. And significantly more acceptable reasons to drink mulled cider.

More Than a Market

What’s building here isn’t just a place to shop.

It’s:

• A space for thoughtful, sustainable finds

• A platform for independent traders with great taste

• A community that’s growing… without trying too hard

And if last Sunday was anything to go by…you might want to be at the next one.

A special thank you also to Alex from Wildkin Weddings for photographing the event.

How to Book Your Registrar in Norfolk

After finding and booking your dream venue (hint hint 😉), the next thing to do - if you’re having a legal wedding ceremony in Norfolk - is to book your wedding registrar.

Happy Valley is a duel-licensed wedding venue, which means that we hold the legal authority from the council to host your ceremony and your wedding reception in the same place. This will eradicate the need to travel between venues, and means everything can be legal on the day. Yippee!

If you’re getting married at Happy Valley, our woodland and barn wedding venue in Norfolk, your registrar is the person who makes your marriage legally official on the day.

Here’s your complete step-by-step guide to booking a wedding registrar in Norfolk - including costs, timelines and important legal details you need to know.

Who Provides Wedding Registrars in Norfolk?

All legal civil wedding ceremonies in Norfolk are conducted by registrars from Norfolk County Council.

If you are having your legal ceremony at a licensed wedding venue in Norfolk - like Happy Valley’s woodland or barn ceremony spaces - you must book your registrar directly through Norfolk County Council.

Important: Booking your venue does not automatically book your registrar. So once you’ve chosen your venue and your special date, the very next thing you should do is book your registrar.

When Should You Book a Wedding Registrar in Norfolk?

Peak summer Saturdays in Norfolk can book up 12–24 months in advance, especially for:

• Woodland wedding ceremonies

• Barn wedding venues in Norfolk

• Popular afternoon time slots (1pm–3pm)

• Bank holiday weekends

To avoid disappointment, we always recommend our Happy Valley couples book their Norfolk wedding registrar shortly after confirming with us.

How to Book Your Wedding Registrar in Norfolk

Step 1: Check Availability

Visit the Norfolk County Council website and search: “Book a wedding registrar in Norfolk”

You’ll then be able to:

• Check date availability

• Select your ceremony time

• View current registrar fees

Step 2: Pay the Ceremony Fee

Registrar fees in Norfolk vary depending on the day and time of your ceremony.

Norfolk Wedding Registrar Costs (Guide Only)

Prices are subject to change, but as a general guide:

• Monday–Thursday: Approx. £500–£600

• Friday: Approx. £600–£700

• Saturday: Approx. £650–£750

• Sunday & Bank Holidays: £750+

This fee includes: Attendance of the registrar, conducting your legal wedding ceremony and processing your legal paperwork. Please note: This cost is separate from your wedding venue hire fee at Happy Valley Norfolk. For the most up-to-date Norfolk wedding registrar fees, always check directly with Norfolk County Council here.

Giving Notice of Marriage (Legal Requirement)

Booking your wedding registrar in Norfolk is only part of the legal process.

You must also give Notice of Marriage at your local register office.

What You Need to Know:

• You must give notice at least 29 days before your wedding

• The fee is currently around £42 per person

• You must attend in person

• You’ll need valid ID and proof of address

If you live outside Norfolk, you give notice in your own local district - not in Norfolk. Without giving notice, your marriage cannot legally take place.

Planning Your Legal Ceremony at Happy Valley Norfolk

Once your Norfolk wedding registrar is booked, they will contact you closer to your date to:

• Confirm ceremony wording

• Check name pronunciations

• Confirm legal declarations

• Finalise timings

Civil ceremonies in Norfolk must include specific legal wording, and religious content is not permitted.

At Happy Valley Norfolk, we coordinate closely with Norfolk registrars to ensure everything runs smoothly - whether you’re marrying:

• Beneath the trees in our woodland ceremony spaces

• Inside one of our rustic barns

• Beside our beautiful lake

• On our enchanting Willow Island

All our spaces (in fact ANY space you feel drawn to within the site perimeter) is fully licensed for legal wedding ceremonies in Norfolk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Registrars in Norfolk

How much does a wedding registrar cost in Norfolk?

Most couples pay between £500 and £750 depending on the day and time of their ceremony. Saturdays and bank holidays are typically the most expensive.

How far in advance should you book a registrar in Norfolk?

Ideally 12–18 months in advance for peak wedding season (May–September), especially for Saturday weddings.

Do I need a registrar for a woodland wedding in Norfolk?

Yes - if you want your woodland ceremony to be legally binding. If you prefer a celebrant-led ceremony, you can legally marry separately at a registry office and have a celebrant-led celebration at Happy Valley Norfolk afterwards.

Can you legally get married at a barn wedding venue in Norfolk?

Yes, as long as the venue is licensed for civil ceremonies - like Happy Valley Norfolk.

Do registrars attend rehearsals?

No, Norfolk registrars do not typically attend wedding rehearsals. They will arrive around 30 minutes before your ceremony on the day. A member of the Happy Valley wedding team will meet and greet them on the day and ensure everything is running smoothly.

Do I have to book a registrar?

You only have to book a registrar if you want a legal ceremony. If you have had a registry office ceremony to take care of the legal part, then you can opt for a celebrant-led wedding at Happy Valley Norfolk. This is often a popular choice for couples who want to put their own spin on the way the ceremony is led.

Top Tips from the team at Happy Valley Norfolk

✨ Book your registrar immediately after securing your date with us
✨ Optimise your ceremony timings to ensure it fits with the day you want

✨ Double-check your ceremony time matches your registrar booking
✨ Keep all confirmation emails in one wedding planning folder

✨Consider your ceremony time in relation to your end time. At Happy Valley, our cut off time is 11:00pm. If you would like to opt for a late license, the celebrations can continue until 12:30am.

Final Thoughts

Booking your wedding registrar in Norfolk might not be the most glamorous part of planning your day but it is one of the most important.

Once your registrar is secured, you can relax knowing your woodland or barn wedding at Happy Valley Norfolk will be just as legally official as it is unforgettable.

If you have any questions about legal ceremonies at our Norfolk wedding venue, we’re always happy to help guide you through the process.

For a wedding brochure or to chat to us about viewing our venue please e-mail us weddings@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk

J & L 9th July 2025 Photo by Big Day Productions

An Unforgettable May Half Term at Happy Valley Norfolk

Escape to North Norfolk for May half term and experience all that this magical part of the world has to offer. With a range of cabins still available for selected dates during May half term, you’re bound to find the perfect glamping getaway experience with us. Be quick though - they won’t stick around for long!

What’s on near Happy Valley Norfolk during May Half Term?

On the North Norfolk Coast, less than half an hour’s drive from Happy Valley Norfolk, the Delegate Market hosts four artisans and producers in their beach huts each week. This is North Norfolk Coast shopping that can’t be found on the high street; celebrating local producers, artisans and crafters in a unique and beautiful setting. These pop-up shops are a perfect spot for some May half term browsing.

Other beaches that can be easily explored from Happy Valley Norfolk are Hunstanton, Heacham, Thornham and Snettisham.

The Old Store in Snettisham is a fantastic brunch and coffee spot, offering breakfast and brunch as well as smoothies, juices, milkshakes and even brunch cocktails. For a special occasion it’s a must. Opening hours are Monday - Sunday 8am - 3pm.

Snettisham Deer Park is a fun-filled day out for the whole family. With an on-site farm and cafe plus adventure playground, kids of all ages will love it. Pre-book one of their famous tractor rides and get up close and personal with the resident deer. Don’t forget to buy some food to feed them from the tractor!

Thornham is a small coastal village with an abundance of interest. Separated from the sea by vast stretches of marshland, it’s an atmospheric day trip for the avid explorer. The Lifeboat Inn, The Chequers and The Orange Tree are all worth a visit, whilst Thornham Deli is the perfect spot for morning coffee and pastries. Drove Farm offers local retail opportunities that will excite the passionate shopper.

Discover an amazing underwater world at Sea Life Hunstanton, a short half an hour from us. From £16 per adult for a standard ticket, this experience is a must-do while in Norfolk.

Sandringham Estate is a firm family-favourite during the holidays, with an abundance of activities on offer for families and children of all ages. Book family archery or a forest school session or enjoy a creative workshop in the garden surrounded by nature.

The North Norfolk Railway is celebrating May half term with springtime celebrations like no other! Enjoy heritage steam trains and exciting science shows from Tuesday 27th May - Friday 30th May. Suitable for all ages.

The Norfolk Wildlife Trust has an selection of amazing outdoor adventures to get stuck into during May half term, including Rockpool Rummaging and Fascinating Fossils both at West Runton beach on 27th May 2025 (around 50 min drive from Happy Valley Norfolk).

Happy Valley Availability for May Half Term

Escape to the serenity of Keeper’s Cabin from Friday 30th May - Monday 2nd June.

Sleeping up to 4, The Woodpecker is a quirky family cabin made for spending quality time together. Stay here from Monday 26th May - Friday 30th May.

King Nutkin is available from Friday 23rd May - Monday 26th May and from Monday 26th May - Friday 30th May.

Denver and Tawny Hut are available for stays between Monday 26th May - Friday 30th May. These huts sleep up to 4 and are ideal for families of 4 with older children or couples looking to go away together. They share a functional outdoor kitchenette, picnic area and fire pit.

Other May Half Term Availability

Toad Hall - Friday 30th May - Monday 2nd June

Keeper’s Cabin - Friday 30th May - Monday 2nd June

The Woodpecker - Friday 30th May - Monday 2nd June

King Nutkin - Friday 23rd May - Monday 26th May and Friday 30th May - Monday 2nd June

Denver & Tawny - Friday 30th May - Monday 2nd June

Why Buying Second Hand Matters

In 2018, I bought a little suede-bound book from a charity shop in Southwold. It was entitled, ‘The Longfellow Birthday Book’, published circa 1910 and used (ordinarily) to record the birthdays of your friends and loved ones. This one, unbeknownst to me at the time, was actually used by a midwife, Nurse Seaman, between 1919 - 1931 to record all the births of babies she had delivered throughout her career. After a little research, I went on to speak to relatives of the babies listed in the book, hear stories about them and learn about their lives. It has become one of my most prized possessions.

Buying second-hand then, is not only essential for the health of our planet, but it actually has an enormous impact on our personal lives as well. Let’s explore how shopping sustainably and buying second hand can have a positive effect on our planet and our minds.

How can buying second hand have an impact on the planet?

1. Lowering our carbon footprint. “New Oxfam research reveals that if all UK adults bought half of their next wardrobe second-hand instead of new, it could prevent an estimated 12.5 billion kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions entering the atmosphere.”

2. Reducing waste. The fashion industry alone is responsible for “92 million tonnes of textiles waste every year” according to Earth.org. By shopping second hand we can dramatically reduce that number.

3. Supporting local communities. Many secondhand and charity shops are run by local organisations who are raising money for the community. Your purchases in these types of retail environments will be directly impacting the lives of those supported by the charity.

4. Shifting consumer behaviour. By promotion secondhand shopping as a way of life, we are encouraging others to take a more sustainable approach to buying. This may help to eliminate the buy-use-dispose cycle that is so prevalent in modern society.

We all love to look and feel good, but should it come at the cost of our future?

How can buying second hand have an impact on our personal lives?

1. Probably most obviously, shopping second hand has an enormous impact on our finances! By seeking out high-quality materials such as cotton, cashmere, wool and vintage denim we can add longevity to our wardrobes without worrying about the price tag.

2. A dedication to secondhand shopping allows us to be more mindful of the items we bring into our home. This in turn may inspire us to declutter on a regular basis - keeping our homes (and our minds) clear.

3. Gratitude. Shopping sustainably lets us really think about the things we already own, creating space for that feeling of gratitude that fast fashion just doesn’t have time for.

4. Disengaging from ‘trends’. It’s easy to become swept up in what’s fashionable and lose our sense of self and style. By shopping on the secondhand market we can disengage from what is considered fashionable and instead be true to ourselves! We were made to be unique, not to follow the crowd.

Sustainable fashion is a journey of intention, and we are here for it. Are you?

Join us at our pre-loved pop-up market on Sunday 23rd March for an eclectic and lively event where you can find some pre-loved treasures amongst a whole host of unique and affordable items. Get FREE tickets here or if you’d like to sell, apply for a stall here. We will be supporting The King’s Lynn Men’s Shed through the sale of tea, coffee and homemade cakes. We would love to see you there!

Spring has Sprung at Happy Valley

Wedding Season is about to kick off here at Happy Valley and we’re reminded of some of the beautiful Spring Weddings from last year.

There’s endless back drops to choose from for your outdoor ceremony whether you’re looking for an “I Do” on the island surrounded by water or immersed in the forest for a Woodland Wedding. There’s nothing quite like nature to calm those Wedding nerves.

No need to panic if Spring has sprung a leak. We’ve got 2 barns and a gorgeous undercover area to hold your ceremony when the great British Weather ins’t playing ball.

The amazing suppliers we had the pleasure of working with for Jennie and Jamies special Spring Wedding -
Photographer - Aurora Grey Photography Flowers - @wildfolkflowers Catering @funnellskitchen Film - @shutterboxfilms Music @boujeemusiclive

Gorgeous reminder of Kate & Ollie’s beautiful May Wedding at Happy Valley last year.

Kates vision came to life with this stunning outdoor ceremony on Willow island followed by woodland pics & a barn wedding reception. Photographer - @artandstorystudio Florist - @thenorfolkfloralstudio Videographer - Moon Cast Cake - @bunsoffunemma Evening Caterers @SquillaandSquidge Daytime Caterers - Tom Oldridge

Elly & Billy rocked an April Wedding at Happy Valley using the wizard tree as the alter with the water in the backdrop. Supported by some amazing suppliers below -

Hayley Clark Make up, Dick Ropa Entertainment. The Nashville Heat. Alice Cunliffe Photography Wild Folk Florist

Wishing you all a wonderful Easter Holidays and can’t wait to see you for celebrations this year.

LOVE the little Happy Valley Crew.

x

Days Out In Norfolk That Won't Break The Bank

The warmer weather is right on our doorstep and as much as it can be wonderful to spend some extra time with your loved ones, it can also feel stressful trying to plan things to do. Not to fear, because we have put together a list of budget family days out in Norfolk, that will help you keep the full family entertained and make some marvellous memories, whilst sticking to a budget. We are so lucky to be so rich in history, nature and culture and lots of it are free to visit. For nature lovers, there are miles upon miles of beaches, woodland and wildlife sites. The county is bursting with things to do, that you won’t find in other places.

1) Be A Royal For The Day At Sandringham Estate Walk the woodlands - Free / Sandringham House & Gardens - £13 just for the Gardens or £23 for both

The Queen's Country Retreat and the Royal Family’s only private home and estate in England. “Explore Sandringham Royal Parkland this spring, by foot or by bike. The 600 acre Royal Park has two way-marked trails winding through woodlands & parkland with further unmarked paths for you to explore.” Alongside the vast woodland and grounds to explore, there is also The Sandringham House and gardens to soak up some history in. Take a break at in the courtyard for some refreshments and browse the estates favourite produce in the gift shop. A great event coming up is Sandringham’s Food, Craft, and Wood Festival which will be taking place on April 30th, 1st & 2nd of May.

2) Explore The Unknown With Norfolk Hidden Gems From just £22 for the whole group

“As you travel you earn points by visiting destinations, solving clues & completing challenges. The Travel League lets you compete with fellow explorers! Each season win amazing prizes & become the UK’s Greatest Explorer!” Norfolk Hidden Gems is a self-guided tour and treasure hunt travel experience and all you need is a mobile phone, to use the smartphone travel tool. You can explore over 100 destinations and challenges, avoid the crowds and it’s flexible to start at anytime. Just pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover hidden gems & incredible places you may never find alone.

3) Visit The South Asia Collection For A Dose Of History & Culture Admission - Free

If you like a dash of city life and love discovering culture, in the heart of Norfolk the city of Norwich, there is plenty to do and see for free such as visiting The South Asia Collection. Housed in a restored Victorian roller skating rink in the centre of Norwich, just a short walk from the market place. “A Grade II listed architectural gem, with a dramatic arched wooden roof, the Old Skating Rink was first opened on the 19th September 1876. Over a hundred years later in 1993 Philip and Jeannie Millward, the founders of The South Asia Collection, purchased the building and embarked on a major refurbishment. Today, exhibition displays and large carved architectural pieces from South Asia can be seen beside the galleries where admiring Victorians once looked out across the skaters beneath the impressive arched roof.”

4) The Norfolk Coastline Free To Explore

There's plenty to see and do along Norfolk's 90-mile coastline, from beautiful beaches with salt marshes to shingle spits, fine sand and estuaries. There are tons of coastal villages and towns to visit including Sheringham which is well-known for its beautiful beaches and cliffs, Wells-Next-The-Sea where families enjoy crabbing and multiple events during the year and of course, Heacham and Hunstanton, which are practically on our doorstep.

We are very fortunate to be located near a variety of activities to do and places to visit for free. We have the highest concentration of mediaeval churches in the world, with 659. North Norfolk is one of the few sites in the UK where you can view the northern lights, and the vast beach at Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea is routinely rated the best beach in the country.

To book your stay at Happy Valley for a truly unique glamping experience, click on the “Glamping” tab at the top of this website.

A Lovely Review For Our Woodpecker Tree Temple

“A beautiful place to stay. So cosy and relaxing. We had lashing rain when we arrived and then bright sun the day after, and The Woodpecker was a lovely place to stay for both. If the weather is rubbish then cosy up with a book and get the wood burner going, and if you get sun then head out on one of the local walks or heat up the hot tub and enjoy the beautiful view. Thank you for a lovely couple of days. We loved staying in The Woodpecker and hope to come back again.”

A huge thank you to Nicola for staying with us and leaving us such a lovely review! Woodpecker is a great cabin for a family of four looking for a woodland escape or even a couple wanting a luxury glamping experience. With a wood fired hot tub to soak the day away in and a sumptuous kingsize bed, you can leave Happy Valley feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Enjoy relaxing in the heart of nature in the wood fired hot tub. To view our other cabins with hot tubs included, click the glamping tab at the top of the page.

The Woodpecker Tree Temple in all it’s woodland glory.

Bring your walking boots and reap the benefits of all the great local area to explore. Picture here is our Willow Island, a renowned wedding ceremony spot.

To book your stay in The Woodpecker Tree Temple or to view what else we have to offer, head over to the glamping section of our website.