Harping on about Norfolk

Posted by Andrew Smith on October 6th, 2017

The saying goes that if you’re bored of London, you must be bored of life, but there is life beyond the city walls and, while most visitors to the UK are initially drawn to the capital, there is plenty to tempt them beyond the city. While everyone has heard of Loch Ness and its monsters, Stonehenge and its mysterious past, and even Nottingham Forest and its famous outlaw, Robin Hood, Norfolk remains shrouded in a little more secrecy.

The earliest known evidence of human habitation outside of Africa was found in Norfolk, proving that the first visitor’s set foot on this land 850,000 years ago, before the island had broken free of its neighbouring mainland. After that, Norfolk was populated by the Vikings, the Normans, the Celts and pretty much everyone else at one time or another, giving it one of the most diverse histories anywhere in Britain.

If you’re looking for accommodation, The Harper Hotel Langham UK is one of the most distinctive hotels in the county and in nestled in the pretty village of Langham in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is just stone’s throw from the famous village of Thursford.

What was once just another pretty Norfolk village, is now home to the biggest Christmas celebration in Europe, attracting nearly 200,00 people each year. Thursford became a visitor’s hotspot as a result of the collection of old steam engines and other antique paraphernalia stationed there. Even if your trip doesn’t coincide with the Christmas spectacular, it’s worth popping in to see this collection and hear one of the world’s top organists play the Mighty Wurlitzer organ. The Wurlitzer used to be seen in many theatres and cinemas, providing atmospheric music to accompany the events on screen or on stage. If organ music isn’t up your alley, then you can always treat yourself to a whirl on one of the fairground rides like the 1896 Savages 3-abreast set of Gallopers or the Venetian Gondola Switchback Ride.

In addition to its proximity to Thursford, the Harpers is perfectly situated for a full exploration of the Norfolk coastline, including the Blue Flag beaches of Cromer where the golden sands stretch down to the incoming sea. While in the area, it would be remiss of any visitor not to try the local seafood, especially the famous Cromer crab. Just as champagne is specific to France, so these crabs are found nowhere else in the world. Full of juicy white meat, this is a real speciality and there are numerous cafes, restaurants and shops where you can get your fill of the Cromer crab.

After a busy day exploring the history and beauty of Norfolk, there’s nothing better than having a cosy spot to return to for an evening of great food in a warm, friendly atmosphere. The Harpers has two restaurants for you to choose from, both offering a tempting array of local fare. Stanley’s is the life and soul of the hotel, while The Stove offers an understated fine dining experience. After your appetite has been satiated, you can kick back and relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail before heading off to your four-poster bed for a comfortable night’s sleep, knowing that Britain has yet more adventures in store tomorrow.