is a huge problem, and north-east Norfolk is in particular danger, as images of buildings perched uncomfortably close to the cliffs’ edge at Happisburgh attest. Elsewhere in Norfolk, longshore
drift is creating a new landscape. An enormous shingle spit now owned by the National Trust, Blakeney Point is a favourite haunt of seal watchers and twitchers. In fact, birdwatchers flock to the county for RSPB sites such as Strumpshaw Fen where marsh harriers, bitterns, kingfishers and the spectacular swallowtail are spotted. For a coastal village that typifies
Norfolk, one needs look no farther than Blakeney itself. In medieval times, this resort was a thriving port, but the estuary silted up. The landscape became one of marsh, sand hills and mud, threaded through with creeks and channels to the sea. Flint-built cottages line the road downhill to the harbour, and are dotted all about the village. Many are available for holiday hire. A huge draw in Norfolk is the variety and quality of its
fresh produce. The county is particularly well noted for hams and turkeys. Thornham, near Hunstanton, is famous
for saltmarsh oysters, and Cromer for its succulent crabs. A favourite summer accompaniment is samphire, often referred to as the asparagus of the sea. Not to be left out are the county’s breweries. The latest edition of the Good Beer Guide says the only county with more breweries
Top: Lavender grows well in Norfolk and its perfume is used in products sold around the world
BRITAIN 15
PHOTOS: ALAMY, DAVID BURTON, RENEE MORRIS/JOHN POTTER/PCL, NEIL HOLMES ILLUSTRATION: DAVID HOBBS
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