Norfolk


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-spa-alert">NEW SPA ALERT</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/111708173896.png" alt="" class="wp-image-49649" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/111708173896.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/111708173896-800x800.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/111708173896-400x400.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/111708173896-768x768.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/111708173896-500x500.png 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p><a href="https://www.norfolkmead.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Norfolk Mead Hotel</a> has got us all excited. The peaceful Georgian country hotel near Cromer is abuzz with news of its <a href="https://www.norfolkmead.co.uk/article/spa-what-to-expect?fbclid=PAAaZB0CPuke16g6DUmcrRZ8AuDYmjfX2trCk2XmCL7ed-y3AvpAHuxUM7hH4_aem_ARallURsjl-AlyzYJkOYAUlkbtcmRVfeFwzVBZ13X6QS5rE7ODK-9JzoaEuzuhz3u8g" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brand-new spa</a>, opening in June but taking bookings now. What can spa-seekers expect? There’s pampering aplenty including a Thermal Suite, complete with hydro-therapy pool, herbal steam room, experience shower and foot spa, and an Outdoor Oasis including an aromatic sauna, hot tub and cold shower buckets. But here at Muddy, we&#8217;re most intrigued by the Mud Chamber, of course, and the UK&#8217;s first Beer Spa (yes, you read that right), a hot tub brimming with vitamin-packed malt and hops. We’re hitting the heart eyes emoji on repeat.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="907" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/IMG_6742.jpg-copy.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49651" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/IMG_6742.jpg-copy.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/IMG_6742.jpg-copy-800x726.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/IMG_6742.jpg-copy-768x697.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>In the meantime, you can satisfy your spa needs at a new Nordic-inspired sauna recently opened in a secluded, private woodland in Rackheath, near Norwich. A back to nature experience, <a href="https://saunainthewoods.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sauna in the Woods</a> is constructed from pine trees felled in the wood, with a natural pool and wooden plunge pool for an exhilarating dip afterwards. Rather quirkily, a 1960s bus provides the changing room. <br><br>While we’re on the subject, here’s our pick of other <a href="https://norfolk.muddystilettos.co.uk/lifestyle/wellbeing-lifestyle/best-saunas-ice-baths-contrast-therapy-cold-hot-wim-hof-in-norfolk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild saunas and ice baths</a> in the county and <a href="https://norfolk.muddystilettos.co.uk/lifestyle/beauty-lifestyle/try-one-of-11-great-norfolk-spas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the very best spas near you</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-faces">FAMOUS FACES</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="554" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/42499530100_45c0da1cda_b.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49652" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/42499530100_45c0da1cda_b.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/42499530100_45c0da1cda_b-800x443.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/42499530100_45c0da1cda_b-768x425.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>From spas in Norfolk to stars in Norfolk &#8211; another of our favourite topics! Spandau Ballet bassist, actor and now DJ, Martin Kemp will be delivering a live set this summer at <a href="https://norwich.uptownfestival.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uptown Festival</a>, which is having its Norfolk debut at the city’s Earlham Park on <strong>Sun 9 Jun</strong> (tickets <a href="https://www.tixr.com/groups/earlham-park-live/events/uptown-festival-2024-earlham-park-91195" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>). It promises 1980&#8217;s nostalgia by the bucketload with an iconic line-up of UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, The Christians, and The Earth, Wind and Fire Experience By AI Mckay, plus more to be announced.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="616" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/Player-Kings.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49656" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/Player-Kings.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/Player-Kings-800x493.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/Player-Kings-768x473.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Fancy catching the legendary Sir Ian McKellen in his new play? If the answer is unequivocally YES then nab a ticket to see him in<em> <a href="https://norwichtheatre.org/whats-on/player-kings/">Player Kings</a></em> at <strong>Norwich Theatre Royal</strong> (<strong>Wed 17 &#8211; Sat 20 Jul</strong>), only one of four venues on this whistle-stop tour. He’ll be playing the infamous John Falstaff in this new version of Shakespeare’s <em>Henry IV</em>, parts 1 and 2, adapted by award-winning director Robert Icke. It has already been coined the theatrical event of the season, so get in quick.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-openings">NEW OPENINGS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="989" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/424596001_18413931118024122_2847651042948853551_n-989x1000.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49659" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/424596001_18413931118024122_2847651042948853551_n-989x1000.jpg 989w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/424596001_18413931118024122_2847651042948853551_n-791x800.jpg 791w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/424596001_18413931118024122_2847651042948853551_n-768x776.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/424596001_18413931118024122_2847651042948853551_n.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 989px) 100vw, 989px" /></figure>



<p>Self-confessed curators of &#8220;gorgeous things&#8221;, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kellinghome/">Kelling Home</a> is bringing its ab fab eye for colour, texture and personality<strong> </strong>to Creake Abbey. Following its success in Glandford last year, <a href="https://kellinghome.com/pages/kelling-and-friends-at-creake" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Kelling Home and Friends</a> pop up is relaunching in a newly styled space within the recently reopened Barn Café. You&#8217;ll need the cake energy for your browse of all the brilliant indie brands including Norfolk&#8217;s own Abahna, Marshes &amp; Flint, Troy London, and Willa and The Bear. Open Wed to Sun, and then daily from June to August. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="750" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/430971168_2905766329565656_5970145021550032821_n.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49662" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/430971168_2905766329565656_5970145021550032821_n.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/430971168_2905766329565656_5970145021550032821_n-800x600.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/430971168_2905766329565656_5970145021550032821_n-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>On the food and coffee front, new Wymondham cafe <a href="https://www.instagram.com/grazieandjakes/">@grazieandjakes</a> has dialled up the Instagram vibes with its funky red phone box and other picture-perfect touches. Slurp milkshakes, smoothies and coffee, whilst munching on tasty snacks and treats including sausage rolls, brownies, blondies, sweet and savoury muffins and more.</p>



<p>And in another eye-catching location, Attleborough&#8217;s former Post Office is now the proud new home of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coffeesmithsnorthwalsham/">Coffeesmiths&#8217;</a> second permanent location, serving a bespoke coffee blend&nbsp;from Scottow-based roasters JavaBean, with accompanying sweet treats from Norwich-based Eat with Ella. It wasn&#8217;t that long ago that owner, Arron Jones was caffeinating the good people of Norfolk from his converted horse box before opening his North Walsham coffee shop in 2022. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-all-change">ALL CHANGE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="833" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/04/liam-nichols-store-stoke-mill-833x1000.jpg" alt="Liam Nichols, head chef at Store, Stoke Mill, Stoke Holy Cross" class="wp-image-50009" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/04/liam-nichols-store-stoke-mill-833x1000.jpg 833w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/04/liam-nichols-store-stoke-mill-667x800.jpg 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/04/liam-nichols-store-stoke-mill-768x922.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/04/liam-nichols-store-stoke-mill.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 833px) 100vw, 833px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/muddynorfolk/#">stokemill_store</a></figcaption></figure>



<p>Having snagged a Michelin Star for <a href="https://www.stokemillstore.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">STORE</a> at Stoke Mill for two years on the trot, chef Liam Nichols (above) is cooking up his final service at the Stoke Holy Cross restaurant on Sat 25 Aug. He&#8217;s off to South East Asia to expand his culinary knowledge &#8211; no doubt with a suitcase full of instant noodles and Spam (<a href="https://norfolk.muddystilettos.co.uk/life/people/interview-liam-nichols-store-at-stoke-mill-new-michelin-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">read our interview</a> with Liam and book in quick!). We&#8217;re sad to see him go but wish him well with his next adventure. Here&#8217;s hoping he&#8217;ll return to Norfolk one day. </p>



<p>Squawk! Change is also afoot at <a href="http://www.green-parrot.co.uk">The Green Parrot</a>, Swaffham&#8217;s stalwart health food store and therapy clinic, as owners <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C4IY-PnoPXk/">Bev and Julian</a> have just announced their retirement. But fear not, your bad back and achy bones will be in safe hands as their osteopath son, Toby, is taking up the reigns. Although the health store will be closing in April, it’ll be replaced with a coffee and pastry shop from May. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-congrats">CONGRATS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="750" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/20230929_175945-2048x1536-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49679" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/20230929_175945-2048x1536-1.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/20230929_175945-2048x1536-1-800x600.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/20230929_175945-2048x1536-1-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Congratulations are in order for Wymondham&#8217;s <a href="https://kettsbooks.co.uk">Kett&#8217;s Books</a> which was named Best Independent Bookshop Regional and County winner East of England in The British Book Awards 2024. The prestigious award&nbsp;celebrates the&nbsp;bookshops which support local communities with creative,&nbsp;community-centred activities. Kett&#8217;s Books fought off stiff competition from other local bookshops to win the coveted crown (The Book Hive and Bookbugs and Dragon Tales in Norwich and The Holt Bookshop, which all deserve a mention here too). Well done!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wakey-wakey">WAKEY WAKEY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="668" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/MJ10650.jpg-copy.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49681" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/MJ10650.jpg-copy.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/MJ10650.jpg-copy-800x534.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2024/03/MJ10650.jpg-copy-768x513.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sundown at The Grove, Cromer</figcaption></figure>



<p>With the better weather, overwintering Norfolk businesses are coming out to play. Mark your diary and start salivating as Fakenham&#8217;s epic <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fatcownorfolk?ref=page_internal">Fat Cow Burgers</a> will be back from <strong>Thur 18 Apr</strong>, serving up a revolving menu of loaded burgers and soft serve ice cream &#8211; the perfect match for balmy summer nights to come.</p>



<p>And, just in time for the Easter hols, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/guacandmolemex">Guac&amp;Mole</a> have brought back their Tex Mex inspired street food to Sheringham Prom *starts queuing now*. Meanwhile, <a href="https://thegrovecromer.co.uk/sundown/#">Sundown at The Grove</a> in Cromer will also be returning for another season of Norfolk tapas, pizza, seafood and ice-cream served inside their dreamy, giant tipi.</p>



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Superflashy newsflash! The local lowdown on new spring openings

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