Norfolk Day 2

After an excellent night's stay at the Saracen's Head in Wolterton we began our next part of the walk to North Walsham. The sun was shining on us as we strode off. Today's walk was estimated to be 11 to 12 miles.

Rape seed oil is a big crop in this area and we passed a number of fields in full flower.

The sign had warned us of a Ford (a shallow place in a river allowing you to walk or drive across). No problem walking across today as there was little water in the ford.

The marker would be a big help if the river was in full flood. At least I would know whether to chance taking my small car across.

I was pleased to see there was still plenty of water in the river.

Finally we were back on the Weaver's Way. All of our accommodation is off the pathway which means a walk of a mile or two before we can say we are back on track.

Most of the ground was waterlogged which made it soft underfoot.

Another small but fast flowing river to cross.

Everyone in good spirits so far this morning although P has inadvertently packed his water bottle and sun cap in his case so won't have access to them until we arrive at our next accommodation. There was a chain on either side of the bridge to prevent cattle wandering across. I was happy to see that cattle were not grazing in any of the fields we had to cross.

We did come across this mother with her calf being taken for a walk. The farmer asked if we would walk past them as they wanted them to become more familiar with strangers.  It seemed an odd request but the farmer explained that these Lincolnshire Reds were going to be shown at the local county shows and needed to get used to the public.

Up the road at the farm a few more of the herd were waiting for their turn to be led out to the field.

This beautiful horse looked as though she had just been groomed but refused to turn round for a photo shoot.

We were walking through the Blickling Estate. An area of 4600 acres owned by the National Trust. At the heart of it is a magnificent Jacobean Mansion which is surrounded by gardens, woodlands and farmland.

We didn't have time to look inside the house but as I was here for a visit just a year ago I didn't  mind. We did take advantage of the toilets, shop and Cafe though. A refreshing cup of tea; new sun hat and water bottle for P and we were on our way again.

We passed a few large manor houses and stately homes, which looked as though they had been around for at least a couple of hundred years or more.

The River Bure 

These are advertised as shepherd's huts. Just one up from camping would be my opinion.

The next part of the walk along a disused railway track was the most boring part of the day. It was a very straight pathway, often with high hedges on either side so you couldn't see any variation in the scenery.

This is the remains of the platform and station.

Looks as though they are going to reuse the station. There is road access to it from the other side. A cafe would have gone down well with us!

A few bluebells are beginning to appear.

Finally the end of the track was in sight.

Now we were walking past the thatched cottages and terraced houses of North Walsham, our destination.

My feet were really aching now and I was desperate for a rest. We were staying in the King's Arms, a large pub/hotel. We knew it wouldn't be able to compete with the luxury of the Saracen's Head from last night but as long as there was somewhere to sleep and have a meal I would be happy.

I was so tired I didn’t take photos of the inside of the pub but I did take a photo of the ladies toilet. I don't make a habit of photographing the facilities but I have never come across this before. Two toilets in one cubicle. Handy if you want to continue chatting to your friend I suppose!

Lucky us. The pub is holding a disco tonight which should be finished by 1am!