There's something incredibly special about reuniting with old friends – those with whom you've shared decades of memories, laughter, and the odd misadventure. This past weekend, I had the pleasure of doing just that, meeting up with friends from university, a bond unbroken after 37 years. Our destination was the quaint and charming Burnham Market, a gem in Norfolk known for its picturesque beauty and welcoming atmosphere.
The Journey Begins: Holt and the Arrival at Burnham Market
Our adventure began with a brief stop in the delightful town of Holt. Known for its independent shops and vibrant local scene, Holt provided the perfect backdrop for a bit of shopping – a warm-up, if you will, for the weekend ahead. Laden with unique finds and spirits high, we continued our journey to Burnham Market.
We arrived at our weekend retreat, a stunning property from Barefoot Retreats named 'Cobbles'. This beautifully appointed cottage promised comfort and luxury, a fitting setting for our much-anticipated catch-up. You can explore more about this lovely accommodation here.
The house accommodates six guests in three bedrooms, including a master bedroom with an en-suite, ensuring comfort and privacy. The cosy lounge with a wood burner offers a perfect relaxation spot, and the well-equipped kitchen and dining area make meal preparations easy and enjoyable. The quaint outdoor courtyard is ideal for spending summer evenings. Located just a short walk from the village green, the property is conveniently close to unique shops and restaurants, offering an authentic local experience. Nearby beaches like Brancaster and Burnham Overy Staithe add to the charm of the location.
Despite the rain that seemed intent on accompanying us, there was a sense of warmth and nostalgia as we drove through Burnham Market. The quaint High Street, with its characteristic stream, added a rustic charm to our surroundings, reminding us of the area's unique character and heritage.
A Culinary Adventure and a Night of Memories
Before settling in, we made a timely stop at Gurney's Fish Shop, a renowned local fishmonger. Here, we picked up locally dressed crab and other seafood delights for our evening meal - a sumptuous seafood pasta was on the menu! Gurney's, with its array of fresh, local produce, was a real find; their website offers a glimpse into their offerings here.
On our way back, we paused at a local favourite, Number 29, for a refreshing gin and tonic. This cosy pub, was the perfect spot to unwind and start our evening.
Once back at Cobbles, we started a fire and lit the candles adding a cosy touch to our evening. We spent the night cooking and chatting, singing and enjoying our time together. The meal was great, but the highlight was catching up and sharing stories.
Seaside Serenity and Village Charms
Saturday dawned bright and clear, a stark contrast to the previous day's rain. We decided to seize the opportunity and headed to Brancaster Beach. The sun and sea were a magnificent sight and was the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll with Arthur the dog. We even saw seals basking in the sun and playing in the estuary.
Things to note: There is a chargeable pay-and-display car park, which is not free for National Trust members. Toilets, including disabled access, are available from 6am to 6pm, depending on the tide. Dogs are welcome but there are some restrictions, and they should be kept under close control at all times.
Post-beach, we returned to Burnham Market for some shopping, keenly aware that the local stores would be closed on Sunday. The array of shops in Burnham Market is always a treat, with each store offering something unique and charming.
Our evening was spent back at Number 29, which transformed from a quiet daytime pub to a lively evening spot. Bookings are recommended in advance. Known for its live bands and vibrant atmosphere in the summer months, it was the perfect place to round off our day.
A Leisurely Sunday and a Fond Farewell
Sunday was a relaxed affair. We enjoyed a leisurely morning at Cobbles, soaking in the last few hours of our shared company. After brunch, we ventured to Thornham Deli. This delightful spot, with its excellent resturant and gorgeous homeware store, was the perfect ending to our weekend.
As we headed home, there was a unanimous feeling of gratitude and happiness. Spending a weekend with friends who have been a part of your life for nearly four decades is a rare and precious experience. It was not just a weekend away; it was a reaffirmation of lifelong friendships, shared histories, and the promise of many more memories to come. Burnham Market, with its charm and warmth, was the perfect backdrop for such a reunion, a place that will now hold even more special memories in our hearts.
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