the brecks food trail - strattons hotel

The Brecks Food Trailsee food eat food meet the producer

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This publication was supported by the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) delivered through the Brecks Local Action Group. The RDPE is funded by Defra and the EU. The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD): Europe investing in rural areas.

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The Brecks Food StoryThe Brecks is a nationally recognised landscape covering almost 400 sq miles stretching across the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk comprising open heaths, forestry, farmland and rivers with a varied natural, built and cultural history reaching back to Neolithic times and beyond. This cherished landscape has been shaped by how man has interacted with the natural surroundings to produce food and shelter for thousands of years.

TodayThe Brecks is one of the richest areas of the country for wildlife with over 12500 species and many occurring nowhere else in the country. Many species are dependent on the wildlife friendly farming practices in the Brecks to survive.

The Brecks is also one of the largest areas in the country for root crops such as onions and carrots and we celebrate the importance of farming in the rural economy and its contribution to the landscape and wildlife. As a society many have lost the connection between their food and the countryside around them that produces that food. The annual Brecks Food & Drink Festival aims to re-connect us to the Brecks food offering.

The Brecks Food & Drink FestivalThe Brecks Food and Drink festival is part of the month-long Festival of Norfolk food and drink during September celebrating the wonderful local food, farming and countryside of the Brecks staged by those that live and work within the area. It includes the involvement of local schools to have fun while educating children on how important local produce is to rural areas thereby influencing the guardians of tomorrow’s countryside.

By celebrating local food and drink the Festival hopes to reconnect people with their surroundings; to show how what they choose to buy can have a positive impact upon the countryside and the local economy. It also offers demonstrations by local chefs and producers to develop the skills necessary to make best use of local produce, to help keep food bills down and to show what’s available. Most importantly it tastes great!

Buying LocalThink Brecks and you shouldn’t just conjure up its stunning countryside of heath, forest and farmland, but also you should appreciate the sheer pleasure of its high quality food and drink offering that comes from that diverse landscape larder. The Brecks has green pastures, arable land, forestry and river ways that provide the origins for an amazing range of wonderful foods - fresh fish, meats from traditional breeds of livestock such as Redpoll cattle and Norfolk Horn sheep, and most significantly, its bountiful game.

Enjoy the wide range of distinctive dairy products - cheeses from local milk, cream, yogurts and ice-cream. Make your choice from local drinks - ales, cider, special fruit juices and wines and even english whisky. There are many producers, who inspired by local ingredients, have set up successful businesses making wonderful pies and pastries, cakes, fudge, drinks, jams, chutneys and chilli products as well as a splendid array of fruit and vegetables packed with fresh natural flavour. You’ll find these delicious local products widely available through well-stocked farm shops, farmers’ markets and local specialist shops in the towns and villages. Many restaurants, hotels, B&Bs and pubs all boast of the high quality of their food – and it’s all local.


MENU

Introduction

Area map

Chefs

Food Trails


Diverse Drinks

Farmers Markets

Farm Shops

Poultry and Eggs


MENU

Introduction

Area map

Chefs

Food Trails


Diverse Drinks

Farmers Markets

Farm Shops

Poultry and Eggs


MENU

Introduction

Area map

Chefs

Food Trails


Diverse Drinks

Farmers Markets

Farm Shops

Poultry and Eggs

Clockwise from top left: Mary Kemp, chef and food writer for the EDP,

Vanessa Scott, owner and chef at Strattons Hotel, Peter McBurnie, head chef at Elveden,

Paul Foster, head chef at Tuddenham Mill, Tim Kinnaird, Masterchef winner and owner of Macarons & More,

Pop-up Chefs Matthew Owsley-Brown & Sam Bryant at the Brecks Food Festival 2011,

Sam Bryant, head chef at Strattons Hotel.

“Using Brecks-grown ingredients, we can offer maximum flavour and freshness in the most environmentally considerate way.”


A great time to do this trail is in the late summer when the season’s orchard fruits have been harvested even better come during the third weekend in September and enjoy the Brecks Food Festival.

Start in Swaffham where the museum and parish church offer the story and legacy of wealthy merchant John Chapman, the Pedlar of Swaffham.www.swaffhammuseum.co.ukwww.achurchnearyou.com/swaffham-st-peter-st-paulwww.brecks.org

Orchard treasures in Swaffham; the Pedlar of SwaffhamJohn Chapman, a wealthy local merchant was a benefactor to the magnificent church of St Peter & St Paul, when it was rebuilt in 1460. Folklore records that he was a lowly pedlar who dreamed three times that he would receive joyful news if he waited on London Bridge which he duly did and on the third day a shopkeeper who had noticed him waiting asked him what he was doing. The pedlar told him his story and the trader laughed at the notion of following dreams. ‘I’ll tell you country fellow, I dreamed only last night that I was in Swaffham, a place I don’t know, and thought I’d find a vast treasure in an orchard under an oak tree behind a pedlars house.” John went straight home, dug in his orchard, found the treasure and in gratitude to God paid for the church to be repaired and for a statue of himself placed there.

Today you can see the result of a partnership approach to enriching the current town, making use of redundant railway land arising from Dr. Beeching’s cuts following his early 1960s report “The Reshaping of British Railways” which led to far-reaching changes and just over 4,000 route miles that were cut on cost and efficiency grounds.

Swaefas Swale Community Orchard, SwaffhamVisit the orchard and see the amazing achievement by local volunteers in creating an orchard for the community to share. The Swaefas Swale Community Orchard in Swaffham is a CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England) awarded project in acknowledgement of restoration, landscape, education and new build projects which contribute to the diversity of the countryside, in line with the charity’s aims. The Swaefas Swale community has transformed redundant railway land near the Orford Road recreation field in Swaffham with the help of more

than 100 volunteers. Some 200 trees, mainly growing apples, have been planted and there are plans to restore and rebuild the old railway signal box for use as a site office as well as install a zip wire on the site for adults and children. The idea was originally thought up in October 2009 by former Swaffham resident Georgie Keddie, then aged 6, Mark Keddie, her father, is chairman of the Swaefas’ Swale Community Orchard commit-tee. Work started on the orchard a year later and the ultimate aim is for 2,000 trees to be planted in the orchard, as well as around the town linked by footpaths.Contact: Mark Keddie 07919492241 Email: [email protected]

EcoTech CentreThe EcoTech centre, on the northern outskirts of Swaffham, has a heritage apple orchard within its organic gardens planted with over 40 varieties of Norfolk apples which you can visit. Take a trip up the EcoTricity turbine where on a clear day you can see as far as Ely cathedral. The orchard is stunning in May when the trees are in blossom underplanted with wild flowers. www.ecotech.org.uk

Swaffham TownIn the market town of Swaffham you can track down local apple produce pressed into fruits and juices. Starlings is a traditional greengrocer and fruiterer selling a wide range of local vegetables, fruits and juice from Ashill Fruit Farm. Ashill fruit juice is also served at the Market Cross cafe, CoCoes at Strattons Hotel. www.aroundswaffham.co.uk

Ashill Fruit FarmA fantastic small family run fruit farm based in Ashill, Norfolk. The farm grows over forty varieties of apples, pears, plums, soft fruits and also produces a range of pressed delicious cloudy apple juice bottled at the farm using all their own apples & pears. Visit the farm, 3 miles south of Swaffham, and be treated to expert knowledge from the grower including apple varieties, tasting and keeping qualities or see them at Swaffham Farmers Market.www.norfolkpureapplejuice.co.ukwww.farm-direct.co.uk/farmers/direct/fmip2ash.html

More informationFind out more about heritage apples from the East Of England Apples and Orchard Project. www.applesandorchards.org.uk

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Northern Brecks ‘Apple trail’

Clockwise from top left: Mary Kemp, chef and food writer for the EDP,

Vanessa Scott, owner and chef at Strattons Hotel, Peter McBurnie, head chef at Elveden,

Paul Foster, head chef at Tuddenham Mill, Tim Kinnaird, Masterchef winner and owner of Macarons & More,

Pop-up Chefs Matthew Owsley-Brown & Sam Bryant at the Brecks Food Festival 2011,

Sam Bryant, head chef at Strattons Hotel.


Wild Food in the Brecks is abundant. The beautiful and natural habitat supports deer, muntjac, pheasants, rabbit and many other game. While Hares can be seen running through the fields in March, the rabbit population can be spotted all year round. RabbitsRabbits were introduced by the Romans and farmed by the Normans in warrens for their meat and skins. The largest concentration of warrens in Britain was in the Brecks, where the dry, sandy soil was easy for making burrows; the low rainfall and warm summers were most like the climate of the rabbit’s Mediterranean homeland. Since the soils were not naturally fertile there was no competition with land for crop growing. The first warrens in the Brecks were established by the abbeys of Ely and Bury St Edmunds. Lakenheath Warren was set up by the Prior of Ely in 1251; Brandon Warren by the Bishop of Ely in 1252 and Mildenhall Warren by the Abbot of Bury in 1328. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries the warrens were sold to lay landowners. By the eighteenth century there were a dozen warrens next to one another for mile after mile. Their names can still be seen on the Ordnance Survey maps, and include Eriswell, Santon, Thetford and Beachamwell. www.brecks.org

A trip to The Ancient House Museum in Thetford will give you more detailed information of this aspect of the Brecks history. Location: 21, White Hart Street, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1AD Contact: telephone 01842 752599

Brandon Heritage CentreContact: telephone 01842 813 707 www.brandonsuffolk.com

Mildenhall MuseumContact: telephone 01638 716 970 www.mildenhallmuseum.co.uk www.norfolk.museum.gov.uk The Warrens TodayVisit the Warrens for a great walk with a picnic.The Brecks landscape is one of the great natural areas of Britain. It is a place of strange beauty and hidden stories which go back to the Stone Age. Ancient heathland once covered huge areas of the Brecks, created by the axes of prehistoric farmers and the nibbling teeth of sheep and rabbits. ‘Brecks’ were temporary fields cultivated for a few years and then allowed to revert to heath once the soil became exhausted. The former warrens where rabbits were farmed from medieval times are dotted all over this landscape offering accessibility to walkers; a great place for a picnic.

Rabbit Pie, pate or casseroleA key ingredient in any serious ‘local’ Brecks menu today would surely feature rabbit. Rabbit has made its way back into fashion with specialist shops recording an unprecedented demand following Nigella and Nigel Slater showing viewers how to make the most of rabbit with recipes such as Rabbit with Radish and Spring Onion Salad and Baked Rabbit.

Rabbit on the menu:

Tuddenham Mill www.tuddenhammill.co.uk Elveden Fine Foods www.elveden.com Stratton’s Hotel www.strattonshotel.com The Leaping Hare www.wykenvineyards.co.uk

The East Anglian Game & Country Fair During Spring an annual two day, family event is held at the Norfolk Showground, Norwich which centres around ‘game’ and the countryside.www.eastangliangamefair.co.uk

Taste of the wild BrecksThe term ‘game’ applies to wild animals and birds that are hunted and eaten. It also includes birds and animals once caught in the wild that are now raised domestically, such as quail, rabbit and deer (the latter two can be farmed or wild; quails are no longer allowed to be shot in the wild, so are always farmed). Wild game’s generally more flavoursome than farmed meat, and may be a little tougher, depending on the age of the animal. To counteract the toughness, it’s ‘hung’ after shooting to help tenderise the meat and encourage the development of ‘gamey’ flavours. The longer meat is hung, the more pronounced the flavour will become, but hanging periods usually range from two days (for rabbit) to up to 12 days (for venison).Take home some seasonal game from the Brecks and cook up a delicious supper, game pie, terrine or roast. For great game recipes go to www.bbc.co.uk/food/game

Game Dealers:

For a list of butchers and suppliers of game,

please see page 16.

The British Association for Shooting & ConservationBASC ‘Our mission is to promote and protect sporting shooting and the well-being of the countryside throughout the United Kingdom and overseas. We represent our members’ interests by providing a voice for sporting shooting which includes wildfowling, game, and rough shooting, deer stalking, target shooting and air gunning, pigeon shooting and pest control, gun dogs, promoting practical habitat conservation, training and the setting of standards and undertaking appropriate research’. www.basc.org.uk

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‘Wild Days’ in the Brecks


Cookery courses, festivals and specialist producers that connect with the wonderful Brecks Larder and the countryside - a great food and drink offering.

‘A Brecks local food experience can combine meeting inspirational food and drink producers and relaxed cookery days as well as wonderful eating experiences.’

Mary Kemps Cookery Classes East HarlingMary offers unique days in her kitchen at Hill House Farm which may include meeting producers. These tailor made days can include classes in the kitchen at Hill House Farm where you can learn from Mary herself or her specialist chefs and cooks how to prepare and cook in season game, make wonderful breads using locally grown and milled flour and much more. Mary grew up on a farm with a mother who is an amazing cook, the importance of the seasons, food and its origins were a natural part of her childhood.

Though not formally trained Mary would argue she has had an incredible food apprenticeship. Most importantly, Mary’s cookery career started when she married and became a mum. Marrying a farmer also continued that strong link between food, cookery and farming. On a more professional level Mary started working with the Meat and Livestock commission, promoting British meat and farming. Then in 1998 Mary was awarded A Nuffield Scholarship and travelled across the world studying cookery and food politics.www.marykemp.net

Fabulous local producers in East HarlingThe village is also the home to a number of excellent small specialist producers, stop off for ingredients or finished products:

Bespoke cupcakes, cookies and hot chocolate spoons by Laura Cotton www.daydreamincupcakes.co.uk

Chrissy Sturgess makes handmade fudge www.fudgulous.co.uk

www.courtyardchutneyco.com is an artisan preserving company

The English Whisky CompanyFounded by James Nelstrop a Norfolk farmer who wanted to bring the tradition of English Whisky back to life after a 100 years absence. Norfolk is one of the world’s premier barley growing areas and along with the perfectly clear water from the Brecks aquifer it becomes the ideal venue for whisky production. The distillery is open to the public every day from 10am - 5.30pm offering a great insightful place to visit.www.englishwhisky.co.uk

Cafes and restaurantsVisit one of many wonderful cafes or restaurants that celebrate the wealth of fine ingredients on their doorstep; meet the chefs and producers whilst in the area.Pick up a copy of ‘the Best of Norfolk’ and ‘the Best of Suffolk’ from Tilston Philips Magazines Ltd for a really good guide to local eateries. www.tilstonphilips.com

The Big Onion The Elveden farm specialises in the production of vegetables especially potatoes, onions, carrots and parsnips but also grow cereals such as rye, barley and wheat to balance the rotation, ensuring their soils remain fertile and productive for generations to come.The farm extends to some 10,000 acres, making it one of the largest single farm units in lowland Britain, and possibly the largest grower of vegetables working entirely on their own land. More rye is grown at Elveden than on any other farm in the UK and they are major suppliers to the nation’s crisp-bread bakers. Consistency of quality and volume is achieved through the application the highest levels of science and technology. Irrigation, mechanisation and a highly skilled production team are key to their success.

If you visit during August take time to plan in the Elveden ‘Big Onion’ Food Festival which celebrates the best of East Anglian produce with lots of onions, live chef demonstrations hosted by Mary Kemp and entertainment for all.www.bigonionfestival.com

Go behind-the-scenes and visit farms www.nfuonline.com/contact-us/

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East Brecks ‘food, cookery and ingredients trail’

‘Wild Days’ in the Brecks


The Brecks was once largely covered with primeval heathland, created by prehistoric axes and the nibbling teeth of sheep and rabbits - still today the best form of managing a heath. 84% of Brecks heaths have been lost since1900. This loss has now stopped but proper management of the remaining areas is vital to safeguard their wildlife.

Seven new heathlands were re-created from Forest Enterprise land as part of the Heritage Lottery funded Brecks Heathland Project (2001-2006). Their future management will include sustainable grazing to let the heaths naturally re-generate.’

Norfolk HornThe Norfolk Horn is one of the British black-faced sheep breeds and differs from other black-faced breeds which are mainly found in high-rainfall upland areas, and from most other modern lowland British sheep breeds in that they are lightly built and very hardy. This breed is raised primarily for meat. The Norfolk Horn developed on the sandy heathlands of the Brecks area of Norfolk, although similar black-faced sheep were formerly more widespread in lowland Britain. It has adapted to surviving on poor forage in a cool but dry environment.

The breed is long-legged with a black face and legs. Both sexes have horns, although these are larger in the male. The breed is described as “flighty” and is likened to a goat in its ability to jump over obstacles such as fencing. It was popular in Norfolk until the middle 19th century when “improved” breeds such as the Leicester and Southdown appeared. Norfolk Horn ewes were mated to Southdown rams to produce high quality meat-producing lambs, and this cross became established as a separate breed, the Suffolk.

To see the Norfolk Horn sheep and have lunch, visit Church Farm, Stow Bardolph, ‘Rare Breeds Centre’ for animals, adventure playground, tea room and shop: Contact: telephone: 01366 382162www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk

Find out more about the breed from www.norfolkhornbreeders.co.uk

Sheep CheeseJane Murray is a farmer and exceptional cheesemaker who started her business making ewe’s milk cheese at Feltwell; she has since relocated to the small hamlet of Deopham on the borders of the east Brecks. A short trip away from the Poppylot Dairy is Fielding Cottage at Ellingham who produce an award winning offering of goats cheeses and goat products such as natural hand lotions.

You can buy Jane Murray’s wonderful award winning ‘White Lady’ soft cheese or Sam Steggles Fielding Cottage goat’s cheese at:

Elveden Fine Foods www.elveden.com

CoCoes Cafe/Deli in Swaffham www.strattonshotel.com

La Hogue farm shop www.lahogue.co.uk

and from Rob Christie on the Swaffham Saturday market as well as finding it on many restaurant and pub menus throughout the Brecks.

Wealth from sheepChurches were built throughout Norfolk and Suffolk by the wealthy wool merchants as a demonstration of their social standing and wealth; giving rise to the saying that they were built on bales of wool. Significant monastic sites exist throughout the Brecks; in Castle Acre there is one of the best examples of a planned Norman settlement which includes a Cluniac Priory now managed by English Heritage and it is a great place to visit. Sheep still graze on the water meadows around the site and you can walk up into the village and get a great pub lunch or eat light delicious snacks in one of several cafes. Barnfields village shop sells local beers, juices, chutneys and jams along with other goods, whilst the cafe serves, home-made cakes and food. Open Friday-Monday. www.castleacre.info www.english-heritage.org.uk www.aroundswaffham.co.uk

Town Pounds & PondsAll towns had pounds to temporarily house stray animals when found. If the animal was not claimed from the pound, the town crier publicly announced its description. If still unclaimed, the animal was sold and half of the value went to the town and the other half went to the person who found the animal. Spot the pounds whilst you walk around the Brecks towns such as Swaffham.

Find out more at www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk www.brecks.org

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‘Sheep and their legacy’ Trail


Food festivals are a good way to see, to buy and eat local produce...and meet the producers, all in one go.

Becoming increasingly popular not only in The Brecks and its regions but all round the country, they support local producers by introducing them into the market place with very small ‘ food miles’. They offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the region and it’s wonderful produce.

The Brecks Food & Drink Festival SwaffhamSEPTEMBERThis wonderful celebration of local food and drink, plus the amazing countryside of the Brecks showcases everything local from the humble potato to the delicate flavours of the macaron; from local cheeses to chilled ales and from game to garden produce. Local restaurants, attractions, retailers and schools come together in Swaffham as part of the increasingly popular month long Norfolk Food Festival.

Taking place the third week in September. www.aroundswaffham.co.uk www.brecks.org

The “Big Onion” Food and Drink FestivalAUGUST The Big Onion Festival in the Elveden Estate’s walled garden, showcases a host of local food and drink producers. A food stage featuring demonstrations from a number of local chefs runs throughout the day, as well as live music from local bands and children’s entertainment.As the UK’s largest lowland arable farm, the Elveden Estate is passionate about food. “We have an array of fantastic producers in the Brecks area and in the wider region beyond. The Big Onion is an opportunity to celebrate the producers and for the public to find out what’s on our doorstep”.

Tickets for adults are £5 in advance and £7 on the day. www.elveden.com

The Norfolk Show JUNEThe Royal Norfolk Show celebrates everything that’s Norfolk. The largest annual event in the county with over 100,000 visitors offering a great family day out featuring flower and dog shows. The show offers 10 hours of entertainment from spectacular grand ring displays, traditional livestock and equine classes to a live music stage, celebrity guests and over 650 stands for those who love shopping.www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk

The Suffolk Show JUNEThe Suffolk Show attracts around 90,000 visitors over two glorious days of celebrating the best of Suffolk’s agricultural trade, skilled craftsmen and local produce offering a great day out for the whole family.www.suffolkshow.co.uk

East Anglian Game & Country Fair APRiL Features world class events and attrac-tions at the Norfolk Showground each year with something for the whole family and the opportunity to get involved and ‘have a go’ at a range of activities from clay shooting, fly fishing, and archery to mountain boarding and a treasure trail. A great family day out in Norfolk.www.eastangliangamefair.co.uk

Norfolk Food FestivalSEPTEMBERThe event sees hundreds of tastings, tours, demonstrations, debates and family activities taking place. The Norfolk Food Festival takes place during the month of September and is the biggest festival of its kind in the UK which showcases and promotes the breadth of quality produce, our heritage of food production and their importance to our general well-being. www.norfolkfoodfestival.co.uk

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The Brecks and regional Food Festivals

‘Sheep and their legacy’ Trail

Specialist Producers from the Brecks Aston Organic Orchards Organic apples Bramley, Spartan and Grenadier; the farm is part of the Cambridge Organic Food CompanyContact: telephone 01284 811668 Tony Fuller Location: Welham Lane, Risby, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP28 6QS

Bhaji Man - spice kitsDon Lear makes easy mixes and spice kits to provide a simple and economical approach to cooking authentic tasting eastern-inspired meals at home. These innovative products take the hard work out of ethnic cooking – all the grinding and mixing of herbs and spices – to produce aromatic and delicious mealsContact: telephone 01953 498436 Email: [email protected]: 24 Scotgate Close, Great Hockham, Norfolk, IP24 1PFwww.bhajiman.co.uk Courtyard Chutney Co - jams & chutneysAn artisan preserving company making a range of jams, chutneys, relishes and marmalades from local seasonal fruits and vegetables using the open pan method to produce mouthwatering preserves and available at their shop at East Harling where you can watch the products being made and sample them. Contact: telephone 01953 719192 Email: [email protected] Location: 1 The Cottage, King Street, East Harling, Norwich, NR16 2QGwww.courtyardchutneyco.com

Criterion ices Criterion Ices supplies its exclusive ices to restaurants, theatres, concert halls, farm shops, independent fine food stores and delicatessens but do not supply supermarkets, grocery chains or mass-market outlets.Contact: telephone 01359 230208 Paul Myatt Location: The Manor Farm Creamery, Bird Green, Thurston, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 3QJwww.criterion-ices.co.uk

Daydream in cupcakesDaydream in cupcakes was founded by Laura Cotton and specialises in producing cupcakes, hot chocolate spoons and cookies that are perfect for any occasion; birthdays, christenings, baby showers, anniversaries, weddings, valentine’s or just to treat a loved one (or yourself!) based in East Harling, Norfolk and able to provide cupcakes in a 50 mile radius (delivery available in a 20mile radius).Contact: telephone 07900 433454 Email: [email protected] Location: East Harling, Norfolk, NR16 2PZ www.daydreamincupcakes.co.uk

Denver Mill LtdThe mill stone grinds local cereals grown just 6 miles away at Stow Bridge and uses them to make bread, confectionery and biscuits for sale on site in the shop and tearoom. Also on offer is a range of bread and confectionery courses to help people understand the cereals and how to use local products in their baking.Contact: telephone 01366 384009 Email: [email protected] Location: Denver Mills, Sluice Road, Denver, Norfolk, PE38 0EGwww.denvermill.co.uk


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Domini Dairy Village Farm, a small mixed farm, was one of the first to hold the Soil Association symbol. A legacy of ancient pastures and traditional buildings enable the family to practise farming methods tried and tested by their ancestors. The Domini Jersey cows are the backbone of the farm. Their milk has a distinctive and sweet flavour and is sold ‘untreated’, thereby protecting all its natural goodness; the farm also sells cream, farmhouse butter and other dairy products from the farm and from Wyken farmers market.Contact: telephone 01359 221333 or07979 811535 Email: [email protected]: Village Farm, Market Weston, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 2NZ www.dominidairy.co.uk

Nick & Susie Emmett - farmers Farmers producing lamb, hoggart & mutton.Contact: telephone 01366 500269Location: Whitehouse Farm, Oxborough Road, Stoke Ferry, Norfolk, PE33 9QH

F.L Edge & Sons - butchersF L Edge & Son are a traditional family butcher with over 50 years experience in serving and delivering quality fresh meat and home produced meat products. F L Edge & Son Ltd are located in East Harling and have won many awards over the years and are recognised as a quality meat supplier.Contact: telephone 01953 717203 Email: [email protected] Location: Market Street, East Harling, Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2ADwww.fledgeandson.co.uk

Fielding CottageThe only producer of goat’s milk products in Norfolk and all the milk is produced from their own herd of goats of mostly British Saanen with a few Toggenburgs and some Alpine goats. Cheese is made on site from milk from the herd. Contact Sam Steggles to arrange collection from their premises or at Elveden Shop, CoCoe’s Cafe Deli Swaffham and farm shops and delicatessens in the Brecks Area. They also offer visits for Young Farmers and Countrysiders Clubs, Womens Institute Groups and other organisations and can tailor a visit to suit your needs, just call to discuss your requirements. Goat’s milk and cheese are a healthier alternative to cow’s milk and may help those suffering from lactose intolerance, asthma, eczema and other allergies. Contact: telephone 01953 455185 or07775 678782 Email: [email protected] Location: Fielding Cottage, Anchor Corner, Little Ellingham, Norfolk, NR17 1JXwww.fieldingcottage.co.uk

Fudgulous - confectionaryChrissy Sturgess makes handmade fudge using only the finest ingredients, locally sourced where possible with no artificial colours, flavourings or preservatives and includes a classic range of flavours from vanilla, chocolate and ginger to a delicious vanilla clotted cream fudge sold from local Farmers Markets and by arrangement.Contact: telephone 01953 718628 or07900 956237 Email: [email protected] Location: Barn Cottage, Gallants Lane, East Harling, Norfolk, NR16 2NQwww.fudgulous.co.uk

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Heritage Honey Specialist honeys and bee products from hives situated in Breckland and Windsor, Richmond and Sandringham Royal Parks. Wholesale only. Min. order £200.Contact Email: [email protected]: Didlington Manor, Didlington, Thetford, Norfolk, IP26 5AT

Heygate FarmsHeygate Farms are growers of potatoes in the free draining Breckland soil in deepest Norfolk. This assists the development of a potato full of flavour with a clean, bright appearance. The soil is carefully prepared and plentiful irrigation is continuously supplied to encourage a consistent growing environment. The quality and taste difference of Norfolk Peer is achieved through professional agronomy and fine attention to detail throughout the growing season; a combination resulting in a potato crop of the very highest quality.Contact: telephone 01760 721814 William Gribbon Email: [email protected] Location: Snailspit Farm, Cley Road, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 8AEwww.heygatefarms.co.uk

Hill House FarmFarmer Neville Kemp produces Pedigree Aberdeen Angus beef whilst wife Mary runs a cookery school from her farmhouse kitchen when not writing for local glossy magazines or hosting Norfolk and Suffolk cookery theatres with chefs and producers.Contact: telephone 01953 717670 Email: [email protected]: Hill House Farm, East Harling, Norwich, NR16 2LL

Hoggies Spit RoastsHoggies offer a range of delicious foods, spit roast meats, all locally sourced from farms with organic, free-range and outdoor rearing policies for exceptional flavour. Hoggies use traditional spit roast equipment and top of the range commercial barbecues to flame grill a wide range of food that will be a talking point for its fantastic taste as well as the way it is prepared.Contact: telephone 01263 860348 or07788 138243 Email: [email protected] Location: 4, St Marys View, Sporle, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 2UGwww.hoggies.co.uk

Kiri Cooks Catering Kiri Cooks Catering is a West Norfolk based family run business offering a high quality of service for those special events offering a very personal and friendly service and catering for those smaller events, business lunches, shoot-ing parties, funeral teas, dinner parties, birthday parties, weddings and anniversaries. The company also produces, slow cooked, ready meals, desserts and cakes to sell at farmers markets and for home delivery. ‘We are fortunate to be based in The Brecks, with access to the most wonderful local East Anglian produce’ owner Kim Emmett-Ropero. Contact: telephone 01760 336567 Email: [email protected] Location: The Furrows, 5 Haspalls Road, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7PDwww.kiricooks.co.uk


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Larchwood Foods Ltd - pressed local rape oilMr Hugh’s is a versatile quality cold pressed rapeseed oil with high omega 3 and half the saturated at as olive oil. The company supplies food services, retail and food manufacturing industries and is available online and from local shops and delis. Contact: telephone 01366 348 025 Email: [email protected] Location: Hall Farm, Fincham, Norfolkwww.larchwoodfoods.co.uk www.mrhughs.co.uk

Longwood Farm Organic beef, lamb, pork and poultry, as well as organic fruit and vegetables, breads and a large selection of organic groceries. The shop is open two days a week, Friday and Saturday.Contact: telephone 01638 717120 Matthew Unwin Location: Longwood Farm, Tuddenham St Mary, Suffolk, IP28 6TBwww.longwoodfarm.co.uk Macarons & More beautiful patisserie‘We supply high quality luxury patisserie, beautifully prepared and packaged. We only use natural colourings and flavourings. We use free range local eggs. Our macarons are gluten free. Local producers and suppliers are used wherever possible’ Dr Tim Kinnaird, Masterchef finalist, owner.Contact: telephone 01953 882677 Email: [email protected] Location: Unit 19, Thetford Rd Business Park, Watton, Norfolk, IP25 6BSwww.macaronsandmore.com

Mid Norfolk Smokehouse - fish & game suppliersThe Bunning’s family produce ‘natural oak smoked foods including kippers, salmon, mackerel, haddock, kiln salmon and duck pâté; fresh fish from bass to crabs, sourcing fish from sustainable sources is of utmost importance. The company supplies hotels and farm shops; also seasonal game and venison between October to Easter.Contact: telephone 01362 820702 Email: [email protected] Location: Jubilee Hall Farm, Cranworth, Hingham, IP25 7SHwww.midnorfolksmokehouse.co.uk

Norfolk County AsparagusNorfolk County Asparagus is delicious English asparagus grown on the light sandy soils of Brecks and available from mid April to mid June. A premium quality product sold wholesale to the London markets and at the Farm Shop. Opening times 9-4 daily during the season at Roudham Farm, Roudham, just off the A11/B1111. Follow the signs for Norfolk County Asparagus! Contact: telephone 01953 717126 or07774 725417 Email: [email protected] Location: W.O. & P.O. Jolly, Roudham Farm, Roudham, Norfolk, NR16 2RJwww.norfolk-asparagus.co.uk Nunn’s Farm PorkGrange Farm is a family farm where the pigs are reared on a straw based system to create a good product at a fair price. Joints, chop, steaks, sausages, burgers and bacon available at market or direct from the farm.Contact: telephone 01379 687296 Email: [email protected] Location: 86 The Street, North Lopham, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 2LR

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Orchid Apiaries - producing honey in the Brecks landscapeManaging several apiaries in the Brecks area, honey crops are usually gathered during the spring, summer months being often too dry for ground flora to produce nectar, late summer and autumn can produce good crops from the ivy and heather. Can provide apiary tours in late spring when time permits. The scale of operation and management methods allow them to produce several unique mono and poly floral honeys from the Brecks. Apiaries provide an important service to the environment and crop production as most wild honey bee colonies have disappeared in recent years.Contact: telephone 01508 538245 Email: [email protected] Location: Church Lane, Surlingham, Norfolk, NR14 7DF J & D Papworth Farms - farmers & butchersJ & D Papworth Farms is a traditional Norfolk butcher and grazier, selling quality beef and lamb from their own farm and retailing their own sausages and delicatessen products in their own butchers shops located in market towns across the county. Also available online and offering home deliveries in the Brecks.Contact: telephone 01760 724753 or 07770 851717 Email: [email protected]: 34a, Market Place, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7QH www.papworthbutchers.co.uk

Pat-A-CakesBespoke cake maker using the best ingredients; to order and through Great Hockham Farmers Market. Crafting wedding cakes including sugarcraft & hand painted designs. Contact: 01953 497050 or 07961 873878 Email: [email protected]: Springfield, The Street,Great Hockham, Norfolk, IP24 1NHwww.pat-a-cakes.net

Philli ChilliesPhilli Chillies grow over 35 varieties of chillies specialising in using these to enhance both the flavour and heat rating of the products to please both the “chilli heads” and those who like just a hint of heat; they also sell fresh, smoked and dried chillies as well as plants. Products are sold at the markets in North Lopham, Swaffham Farmers Market, Norfolk Diet at the Forum Norwich and Great Hockham Farmers’ Market and by arrangement. Contact: telephone 01953 498517 Email: [email protected]: Lavenders, Harling Road, Great Hockham, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1NTwww.phillichillies.co.uk

Portwood Asparagus - J.W. Allen & Sons Asparagus growers supplying to local shops, restaurants, wholesale markets all over the country and the supermarket multiples and locally at Wymondam Farmers Market in April & May.Contact: telephone 01953 451718 or07850 394479 Email: [email protected] Location: Portwood Farm, Great Ellingham, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 1AG


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Rachel Scrafield - bee keeperRachel’s bees gather nectar from flowering trees in local forests and wild flowers on Brecks heathland giving their honey a particularly fine multi-floral flavour and rich colour. Honey, honey in the comb, beeswax, pure beeswax candles, beeswax decorations and beeswax polish are available. All wax products are made from 100% beeswax from the hives. Sold at Wayland Farmers’ Market during the winter months.Contact: telephone: 01842 812481 Email: [email protected]: 13 Cromwell Road, Weeting, Brandon, Norfolk IP27 0QT

Scotts Rare breed porkThe Scotts own a pedigree herd of rare breed, Large Blacks pigs which are born and reared outside at Oxborough in West Norfolk. They are grown slowly and this contributes to the production of sweet succulent pork which is excellent for curing as well as the table. Scotts Field Pork can be found in the best butcher’s shops and on the finest restaurant menus throughout Suffolk, Norfolk and beyond.Contact: telephone 07940800275 Email: [email protected]: Orchard House, Scotts Lane, Brookville, Thetford, Norfolk, IP26 4RD www.scottsfieldpork.co.uk

Scrubby Oak Fine Foods Ltd A family run business committed to creating fine handmade products from traditional recipes using the finest ingredients including ‘Sweet Fruit Vinegars’ which are grown with a vinegar mother - a natural culture which imparts to them their intense flavour and full bodied consistency that infusion alone cannot provide. Jellies, pickles and preserves made with ingredients sourced as locally as possible and whole fruits and flowers; all products are free from artificial flavours, colours and preservatives and GM Free. Sold online and at Swaffham and Creake Abbey Farmers Markets.Contact: telephone 01760 722202 Email: [email protected] Location: 12 Newton Road, Sporle, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 2DB www.scrubbyoakfinefoods.co.uk Stonehouse Organic Farm Organic beef, pork, lamb and poultry with an on site cutting room for processing meat for regional delivery and farmers’ markets. Contact: telephone 01953 717258 Robert Evans Location: West Harling, Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2SD

Watton Produce CompanyWatton Produce has over fifty years experience focused on the supply of carrots and parsnips for the retail, food service and wholesale Markets in the UK and in Europe. The company farm with an environmental focus and have been awarded by the RSPB for their efforts in conserving endangered birds and animals who naturally inhabit our farms.Contact: telephone 01953 498481Location: Hargham Road, Shropham, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 1DTwww.wattonproduce.co.uk

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Tomato Chilli Jam CoProducing jams that are intense, addictive and incredibly versatile and work perfectly with almost everything from meat, fish, cheese, pasta- ideal as a flavouring. They are made in small batches from many of their own cultivated Chillies, local Aspalls vinegar and local tomatoes when in season. Open by appointment and available on line and in farm shops, butchers and delis. Contact: telephone 07779 040881 Email: [email protected]: Park Farm House, Herringswell, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP28 6SRwww.chillyfilly.com


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Venison Steak with Juniperberry sauce and Red Chillies.Serves 4

4 venison Steaks (8-10 ounces)2tbsp oilsalt and black pepperFor the sauce1tbsp dried juniper berries1/2pt dry red wine2 bay leaves1.1/2tsp thyme (fresh or dried)1 small onion finely chopped1/2pt chicken stock3-4 red chillies to your taste

Put juniper berries, red wine, bay leaves, thyme and onions in a saucepan, simmer for about 20 minutes to reduce by ½. Add stock simmer over medium heat to reduce by ½ again.

Remove from heat and pass through a sieve to remove herbs and berry skins, keep warm.

Brush steaks with oil and season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Either cook under a hot grill or on a hot BBQ for 5-6 minutes per side or to your preference

Remove stem and seeds from chillies and chop finely.

Put steaks on a warmed plate top with the juniper sauce and sprinkle with the chillies.

Serve with rice and green beans or peas.

Game Dealers

J & D Papworth, 34a Market Place, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7QH Tel: 01760 724753 www.papworthbutchers.co.uk

CH &EI Bambridge & Sons, Wayland Croft, Watton Green, Thetford, Norfolk IP25 6RB. Tel: 01953 881895

Hunters Feast (oven ready game), 3 Ellingham Road, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 1YH Tel: 01953 453770 or 07879816495

Powters Ltd, Wellington Street, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 0HT Tel: 01638 662418 www.powters.co.uk

The Elveden Estate & Elveden Food Hall, London Road, Elveden, Thetford, IP24 3PQ Tel: 01842 898064 www.elveden.com

Steven Smith Quality Meats 23 High Street, Watton, Thetford, Norfolk IP25 6AB Tel: 01953 885467

La Hogue Farm Shop, Chippenham, nr Newmarket, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5PZTel: 01638 751128 www.lahogue.co.uk

The diverse drink offering in the Brecks & Brecks borders

REAL ALE Colin Valentine, chairman of the Campaign for real ale comments on real ale;

“It’s strange to think that at the turn of the 21st century the real ale market

was in decline, and many predicted a further downturn in fortunes. Yet in the

present day, real ale brewing is recognised as one of the most vibrant areas of

the small business sector, and we now enjoy more brewers than at any time

since the end of the Second World War. There are promising times ahead for

the industry when a new era of discerning consumers are demanding quality

products that are locally produced and represent good value for money. The

fact many brewers in the current climate are reporting record sales increases

shows this renewed interest is not about to end.” www.camra.org.uk

The story of a local micro brewery project...Harwich Charter Ale 10.0% In early September 2004 Frances Moore from Elveden Ales in Suffolk took all the research, including a suggested recipe from the Colchester CAMRA homebrewer extraordinaire Colin Miller and turned it into reality at her Elveden Brewery in Suffolk. Two highly successful brewers, Brendan Moore from the Iceni Brewery and Ian Hornsey from the Nethergate Brewery, had been involved in the final recipe and Brendan (Frances’ Father) was on hand to help brew the beer. The beer matured in cask until December when eager noses and taste buds were on hand to sample this revival of a forgotten style. Brewed as a one-off for the 2004 Harwich & Dovercourt Bay Winter Ale Festival; a re-creation of Allsopp’s Arctic Ale, brewed in 1852 for Captain Edward Belcher’s expedition to the Arctic in search of John Franklin. Some of the tasting notes from the 1875 brew that influenced the new ale were: ‘..of a nice brown colour, and of a vinous, and at the same time nutty flavour, and as sound as on the day it was brewed’. ‘... mellow as old Burgundy and as nourishing as a beefsteak’. ..and it became the clear winner at The Cambridge Winter Ale Festival ‘2005 - Champion Beer’.


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Bartrams BreweryBartram’s Brewery has won many awards ranging from CAMRA Beer Festival to SIBA industry awards, including the Best Bottled Beer in the Country and subsequently being included on the list of the Top 50 Bottled Beers in the World, the smallest brewery to have achieved this. Marc Bartram maintains an artisan approach refusing to deal with supermarkets, chains or distributors. Sold to local pubs within a 25 mile radius and through local farmers markets and music festivals.Contact: telephone 01449 737655 or07768 062581 Email: [email protected]: Bartram’s Brewery, 23 Meadow Close, Felsham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP30 0QSwww.bartramsbrewery.co.uk

Beeston Brewery Beeston Brewery attributes their own water source and Branthill malted barley to bringing the true taste and character of Norfolk to their ales. They sell everything from bottle. Visiting by prior arrangement - please call first. Private events catered for within 20 mile radius. Beer available at the following local outlets; The Real Ale Shop, Wells; Uncle Stuarts Brewery, Wroxham Barns; General Store, Ringstead; Green Grocers Healthfoods Earlham, Litcham; Post Office, Necton Windmill; Dabbling Duck, Massingham; The Swan at Hillborough and Beeston Ploughshare. Contact: telephone 01328 700844 or 07768 742763 Email: [email protected] Location: Beeston Brewery, Fransham Road Farm, Beeston, Norfolk, PE32 2LZwww.beestonbrewery.co.uk

Brandon BrewerySince opening in 2005 the brewery has gained a wide reputation for the production of excellent ales. The traditional brews are made from recipes that incorporate the best locally sourced ingredients which results in flavours and aromas found only in ale produced in small batches by enthusiastic brewers; winner at East Anglian Beer Festival, Bury St Edmunds - CAMRA Silver.Contact: telephone 01842 878496 or 07876 234689 Email: [email protected] Location: 76 High Street, Brandon, Suffolk, IP27 0AU www.brandonbrewery.co.uk Elmtree BeersA very small brewery dedicated to brewing the best possible real ale boasting a range as small as the brewery which produces fine bitters, wonderful stouts, light summer beers, and the occasional speciality or celebration beer, using ingredients’ from Branthill Farm and Simpson’s malt. A multi award winning business; Beers available online at www.myBrewerytap.com and at small local outlets such as Denver Windmill, be sure to check out the website.Contact: telephone 01953 887065 Email: [email protected] Location: Snetterton Brewery, Oakwood Industrial Estate, Harling Road, Snetterton, Norfolk, NR16 2LQwww.elmtreebeers.co.uk

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iceni BreweryThe brewery is situated on the edge of Thetford Forest, in the Brecks area of Norfolk. The name Iceni is derived from the Iceni tribe who were ruled by Queen Boudicca and occupied most of Norfolk and Suffolk around 61 AD. The brewery is owned and managed by former food industry worker, Brendan Moore. In January 1995, Brendan began brewing beer commercially for retail. Over the years the shop opened, and bottling and packing processes began, which enabled a new market for tourism and guided tours for enthusiasts. The ales are available online, YouTube and Twitter and from Mundford Post Office and Elveden Cafe Bistro. Contact: telephone 01842 878922 or 07949 488113 Email: [email protected] Location: Iceni Brewery, 3 Foulden Rd, Ickburgh, Mundford, IP26 5DSwww.extraordinaryales.co.uk and at Elveden Brewery, Frances Moore, Elveden Ales, The Courtyard, Elveden Estate, Elveden, Thetford, Suffolk, IP24 3TA

The Old Cannon Brewery & PubA privately owned, genuinely independent free house in the centre of Bury and certainly the only brew pub in Suffolk where you can actually see beer in the making on a regular basis. Beers are made on the premises using East Anglian grown and malted barley, choice hops and the special house yeast. Former runners-up in the Suffolk Food & Drink Awards for Best Food Pub.Contact: telephone 01284 768769 Email: [email protected]: The Old Cannon Brewery, 86 Cannon Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP331JRwww.oldcannonbrewery.co.uk

Wolf BreweryThe Wolf Brewery brews up to 12 seasonal and permanent award winning ales, available throughout Norfolk and from the Brewery Shop. Malt, wheat & barley used are from East Anglian producers and the water used throughout the brewery is drawn from an on-site well. The locally malted barley comes from just over the border in Suffolk and when the goodness is extracted from the malted cereal, cattle on a neighbouring farm benefit from the spent brewers grains.Contact: telephone 01953 457775 Email: [email protected] Location: Wolf Brewery,Rookery Farm, Silver Street, Besthorpe, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2LDwww.wolfbrewery.com

& other alcohols...The English Whisky CompanySt George’s Distillery is home to the first traditional single malt distillery in England for over 100 years. Every drop of whisky distilled is a single malt whisky of the highest calibre, lovingly distilled and matured in the very finest oak casks before being bottled. The beautiful distillery is open to the public. A huge success locally, the English Whisky Co has also become an East Anglian success story, exporting its produce to 14 countries worldwide. The award winning spirits are made from water that comes from the Breckland Aquifer and barley supplied by Crisps of Great Ryburgh.Contact: telephone 01953 717939 Email: [email protected]: English Whisky Co. Ltd, St George’s Distillery, Harling Road, Roudham, Norfolk, NR16 2QWwww.englishwhisky.co.uk


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Thelnetham WineryPlanted in 1985, Thelnetham Vineyard is one of the earlier English Vineyards. It is a hobby vineyard run by the Gillis family in their spare time. However, hobby probably underplays it a little since with 1,400 vines and an average production of around 3,000 bottles a year it is a fairly major pastime. The wines are sold locally through independent shops (including Hopton Shop, Londis at Banham and Garboldisham Shop) and through local pubs, restaurants and hotels (including Strattons at Swaffham and the Bank House Hotel in Kings Lynn). Contact: telephone 01379 890739 Email: [email protected]

Wyken VineyardWyken is a 1200-acre farm which includes a flock of Shetland sheep, a small herd of Red Poll cattle and a 7-acre vineyard producing award-winning wines, including the English Wine of the Year. Planted in 1988 on a south facing slope reckoned to have been the site of a Roman vineyard, the vines thrive on the sandy loam over chalk. Wines include: Wyken Bacchus, winner of the ‘English Wine of the Year’, and in 2009 East Anglian Wine of the Year. Wyken Moonshine a sparkling wine ‘A wow! and it gets better and better.’ Hugh Johnson. Wyken White, a perfect wine, off dry and welcoming, and our first screw cap. Wyken Madeleine Angevine, citrus fruits on the nose.Contact: telephone 01359 250287 Email: [email protected]: Wyken Vineyard, Stanton, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 2DW www.wykenvineyars.co.uk

Soft DrinksBreckland OrchardBreckland Orchard produce fabulous sparkling soft drinks – or ‘Posh Pop’ ® as they prefer to call them. All products are made in small batches with a base of Norfolk spring water and plenty of passion to traditional recipes researched by founder Claire Martenson Contact: telephone 01953 878 060 Email: [email protected] to: Wayland House, High Street, Watton, Norfolk, IP25 6ARwww.brecklandorchard.co.uk

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Brecks & the borders Farmers Markets Buying Local Food is ethical, tasty & informativeThere is an environmental cost to transporting food around the country. Most of us think that if we buy British food this is good enough, however if we changed to buying goods that are locally produced it would make significant environmental and congestion savings.

Farmers markets are a great and informative way of picking your own local fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy and much more and a chance to find out the stories behind the food from the producers themselves.

“All products are brought to market by the actual producers, many of whom

offer free tastings and are always delighted to talk about their specialities”.

Eileen Brownlow, Great Hockham, Farmers Market.

“We all have to eat every day, therefore coming to a farmers’ market to buy

some locally grown, baked and cooked food regularly, is a must - much more

enjoyable than a trip to a supermarket, and you can sample the food too, plus

listen to some regular local traditional folk from local musicians and a bit of

folk dancing too“.

Chris Elder, CCFM


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Great Hockham Farmers Market Since September 2010 Great Hockham has been running a monthly Farmers’ & Craft Market after taking part in the Bidwell’s/EDP Norfolk Food Festival by having its own very successful food festival on September 10th 2011. The markets are providing an outlet for our local producers and our village with a new shopping experience. Enjoy a BBQ bacon butty, shop for the week and then relax with a real coffee and one or Sarah’s mouth-watering cakes! A real community Farmers’ Market featuring a regular twenty stalls with the best produce/crafts from the Brecks area of Norfolk.Location: Great Hockham ‘Edinburgh Hall’, Great Hockham, Norfolk, IP241NT Frequency: second Saturday of the month from 10am – 12pmContact: Eileen Brownlow 01953 498517 www.greathockham.org/FarmersCraftsMarket.aspx

Risby indoor Farmers Market Risby is a small village just outside the thriving market town of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk. A full list of confirmed stalls for each of the markets can be found on the website as they are approaching. The Risby Farmers Market features organic and free range meat and dairy produce, fruit and vegetables, home-made jams and chutneys, artisan breads, savory treats, handmade meals, cakes and desserts, local crafts and refreshments.Location: just off junction 41 on the A14 near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP28 6RT Frequency: first Saturday of each month, at Risby Village Hall, 10am – 2pm.Contact: [email protected] or telephone 01284 811898www.risbyfarmersmarket.co.uk

Rougham Airfield Farmers MarketRougham Airfield Farmers Market has an excellent variety of quality, local produce to tempt you from meat products, homemade cakes and pies, jams and chutneys, olives and feta cheese, vegetables, beverages from organic coffee beans to ice cold cider, an assortment of cheeses, free range eggs, hot and spicy chilli sauces and much more. Talk to local farmers and people growing or making the food/products they are selling, how and where it was grown or made, where it is grown or made and also enjoy mouth watering food samples. Alongside the Farmers Market there are Craft Marquees with a great variety of local genuine crafts, refreshments and lunches are available, car parking on site. Also for the children The Petting Zoo to Bouncy Castle, Bubble of Fun, Childrens Fun Fair rides and Ice Cream.Location: Rougham Airfield, Rougham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP30 Frequency: fortnightly every other Sunday 10am – 3pm (Mar - Oct)Contact: [email protected] or telephone 07870 437264

Rickinghall Farmers MarketProducts available at most markets according to season: Beef, lamb, pork, chicken, fresh and smoked fish, locally made curries, bread and cakes, fruit tarts, chocolate and truffles, honey, chutneys and preserves, cheese, stone ground wholemeal flour from Pakenham Water Mill, fresh vegetables, apple juice, mushrooms, fresh eggs, freshly ground coffee also shrubs and plants.Location: Rickinghall Village Hall, signed from the main road through RickinghallFrequency: second Saturday of every month, from 9am – 2.30pmContact: Monty Cornel 01379 898525


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Swaffham Farmers MarketThe Farmers Market was launched as part of the inaugural Brecks Food & Drink Festival in September 2012. The market is organised by City & Country Farmers Markets featuring a good range of artisan products from the Brecks, entertainment and cafe with cover for showery or very sunny days.Location: Swaffham Market Place, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7ABFrequency: the first and third Sunday of the month 10am – 3pm Contact: Lesley Howard 01366 501246 www.weareccfm.com

West Lexham Farmers MarketNoticing how many food producers attending London markets come from the East Anglia region, Chris Elder is keen to encourage more local councils, places of interest, schools and colleges to think about opening farmers’ markets in this rich and diverse area for all kinds of local foods. Pick up a wide range of produce from sausages made with locally reared rare breed pork to spicy sauces and chutneys made from chillies grown in Norfolk.Location: West Lexham which is just off the A1065, 5 miles north of Swaffham Frequency: starting Sunday 29th April 2012 & thereafter last Sunday of the month 10am – 3pmContact: [email protected] or telephone Lesley Howard 01366 501246

Wayland Farmers MarketThe Market was established in July 2000 as a part of a Partnership initiative to promote local food and farming. Several of the original traders still attend. A team of volunteers manages the stalls and most of them have also been with the market from the start. Produce includes local beer, honey, Angus beef, apple juice, eggs, fish, preserves and flowers.Location: Watton High Street, Watton, Norfolk, IP25 6AH Frequency: first Saturday of the month, 8.30am – 12.30pmContact: 01953 883915/881709 www.wayland.org.uk

Wyken Farmers’ Market‘The Wyken Farmers’ Market is about farmers, producers, bakers, makers, friends and family situated in the farm sheds next to the Medieval Barn where you can eat and shop.Location: Wyken Vineyards, Wyken Hall, Stanton, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk IP31 2DW. Wyken Vineyard & the Leaping Hare are 9 miles NE of Bury St Edmunds, just off the A143, follow the brown signs for Wyken Vineyard from the A143 at Ixworth & Stanton.Frequency: every Saturday 9am – 1pmContact: 01359 250262 www.wykenvineyards.co.uk

Traditional Weekly Markets

BrandonThursday & Saturday

Bury St Edmunds Wednesday & Saturday

MildenhallFriday

NewmarketTuesday & Saturday

SwaffhamSaturday

ThetfordTuesday & Saturday

Watton Wednesday

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Farms & Farm Shops in the Brecks & its bordersAbram’s Farm ShopHigh House Farm, Beetley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4BXA family farm producing high class quality beef. Traditionally reared and hung for a minimum of 3 weeks to enhance flavour and selling their neighbours high quality lamb and pork; also locally produced F/R chicken, eggs, flour and preserves.Contact: 01362 860244 or 07796 470621 email: [email protected] Open: Tues & Wed 10am – 1pm, all day Friday & Saturday or by appointmentwww.beetleysimmentals.co.uk

D J BarnardMill House Farm, Low Road, Shropham, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 1EHA long established family business priding themselves on the best meat and products in the area and offering a strong customer focus with bespoke butchery service. All the meat is reared on the farm and is free range. Beef, pork, lamb, mutton, cured meats, ready meals, pies and savouries are the offering sold through traditional and farmers markets within the area or home deliveries as well as the farm shop.Contact: 01953 498511 email: [email protected] Open: Tuesday to Friday 8.30am – 5.30pm, Saturday 8.30am – 1pm.www.djbarnardmeats.co.uk

Country Farm MeatsBrand Road, Great Barton, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 2NY A traditional family butchers whose pork is from their own farm. Delicious homemade sausages and burgers and home cured gammon and bacon. They also have lamb, beef, poultry, game, venison and Christmas Turkeys with superb BBQ Section along with all the more traditional and speciality cuts of meat.Contact: 01359 235237Open: Wednesdays 9am – 3.30pm, Thursdays & Fridays 9am – 5.30pm, Saturdays 9am – 3.30pm.www.countryfarmmeats.co.uk

Christmas Hill Farm Shop Christmas Hill Farm, Station Road, Lakenheath, Brandon, Suffolk, IP27 9ABAward winning rare breed beef and lamb reared to extremely high welfare standards on a 700 acre farm in Lakenheath and sold in the farm shop. A range of local pork, chicken and other meat cuts, plus daily specials available! Contact: 01842 861144 email: [email protected] Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am – 5.30pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm.www.christmashill.co.uk


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Eve’s Apple JuiceFlint Farm, Brick Kiln Lane, South Lopham, Suffolk, IP22 2JSPure apple juice with no added sugar or preservatives, grown on the farm on the edge of South Lopham and Redgrave Fen and pressed locally. Eight different varieties and the flavour of the different apples can be quite distincitive, from the sweetness of Red Pippin to more dry flavour of James Grieve.Contact: 01379 687281 Email: [email protected] from: Garboldisham Post Office, The Lophams Market & deliveries within a 10 mile radius.

Elveden EstateLondon Road, Elveden, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 3TJA bit more than a farm shop, an estate shop, passionate about great food and drink, where all their produce is grown, reared or created with the utmost respect for the environment. Home grown vegetables, beef, chicken, lamb, pork and game are usually available. Condiments and jams are made in the estate kitchen using produce from the farm wherever possible, e.g. Elvedenilli, made with carrots, onions and parsnips.Contact: 01842 898068 Email: [email protected] Open: 9.30am – 5pm Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm Sunday. Also online and at Elveden Inn. www.elveden.com

Evergreen FarmChurch Lane, Gressenhall, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 2QHA small farm offering up a box scheme of certified organic and produced on the farm produce where most items are harvested within 24 hours of delivery/collection for maximum flavour and nutritional content. Produce includes apples, pears, plums, gages, morello cherries with fennel, asparagus and salad potatoes a speciality.Contact: 01362 860190 or 07905 805250 Email: [email protected] Open: Box scheme deliveries/collection Fridays & Saturdays or by arrangement April to November

Fransham Manor Farm ShopThe Manor, Little Fransham, Norfolk NR19 2JWA good family run farm shop, specialising in local produce plus some quality deli items, home produce includes seasonal vegetables and soft fruits and homemade pies, cakes and meals such as lasagnes and shepherd’s pie; home produced pork from the farm. Contact: Mark and Sarah Daisley 01362 687603 or 01362 687216Open: every day 8.30am – 5pm Sunday 10am – 3pm

Hillcrest NurseriesBarningham Road, Stanton, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 2DUOpen: Farm Shop: 7 days a week Mon to Fri 8am – 5.30pm, Sat 8.30am – 5.30pm, Sun 8.30 – 5pm Deli and Bakery: Tues to Sat

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La Hogue Farm Shop & CafeLa Hogue Farm, Chippenham, Newmarket, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5PZSituated just off the A11, 2 miles north of Newmarket, La Hogue is an impressive Farm Shop boasting a substantial local butchery, delicatessen and home and Fenland grown fruit and vegetables, including home grown potatoes, garden fruits and homemade ready meals, cakes pastries and desserts. 70 cover farm café/restaurant that offers breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas, together with sunday lunches, with everything made seasonally on the premises, the emphasis being on using local ingredients.Contact: 01638 751128 or 01638 552688 Email: [email protected] Open: Tuesday to Friday 9am – 6pm, Saturday 9am – 5-30pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm. CLOSED Mondays (except bank holidays).www.lahogue.co.uk

Norfolk Pure Apple JuiceAshill Fruit Farm, Swaffham Road, Ashill, Thetford, Norfolk, IP25 7DBPure apple Juice is produced at Ashill Fruit Farm in the norfolk countryside. Once the fruit has fully ripened it is handpicked and selected for juicing. The whole fruit is pressed for maximum goodness and flavour no sugars, flavours or colours are added. The juices and fruits can be bought from the farm shop or at markets and delis throughout Norfolk. A wide range of local vegetables and fruit is available from the farm shop.Contact: 01760 440050 Email: [email protected] Open: Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pmwww.norfolkpureapplejuice.co.uk

The Olde Farm ShopLow Green, Nowton, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5NEA A small local farm shop selling a range of organic vegetables and farm fresh food, also they have a small number of friendly animals, which children can meet and greet notably their friendly sheep Jake, who is a star and enjoys all the fuss and attention he can get. Contact: 07976 771403Open: 8am – 4.30 pm Monday to Saturday, Sunday 10am – 4pm.www.nowtonfarmshop.co.uk

The Rushford EstateEstate Office, Rushford, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2SF Fresh asparagus cut and packed on the estate daily throughout the UK asparagus season is also available from Hillcrest Nursery Stanton and Wyken Vineyard, Stanton.Contact: 01842 753551 or 07979 257183 Email: [email protected] Open: 8.30am – 5pm weekdays,10am – 1pm Saturday & Sunday, during the season.www.rushfordhall.co.uk

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Poultry people!Poultry enthusiasts are a big part of the Brecks countryside offering, with more and more people keeping chickens in their back gardens, the ultimate fresh egg.

Poultry keeper and writer Francine Raymond talks about the

‘satisfying link between kitchen, garden and hens. Plants and birds

produce to their full potential: the flock feasts on kitchen and garden waste,

and flowers and vegetables thrive on chicken manure. In return your hens’

delicious fresh eggs will feed you and your family a wide range of dishes.’

Poultry & Smallholders Groups

The Poultry Club of Great Britain A registered charity founded in 1877 to safeguard the interests of all pure and traditional breeds of poultry. This site offers a wealth of information.www.poultryclub.org

Norfolk Poultry ClubThe place for all things poultry in Norfolk! Two annual shows. Members have access to a breeder’s directory.www.norfolkpoultryclub.org.uk

Norfolk Smallholders Training GroupMembers benefit from newsletters, courses in all things smallholding related and loaning of equipment, including incubators. Annual show.www.nstg.org.uk

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Poultry Breeders & Egg producersT. ClarkBreeds: Jersey Giants, Cochins, Legbars, Sussex, Pekins, Old English game, Sebrights, Polish, Bearded silkies. Ducks: Rouens, Runners, Bali’s, Aylesburys, Muscovies Contact: telephone 07773 571090 Location: Twelve Acre Farm, Hockwold, Norfolk, IP26 4JL

Great Grove Poultry - turkey & geeseA traditional family run farm. All of the Norfolk turkeys and geese are free to roam around the 35 acres of Norfolk woodland and grassland enhancing a stress free environment. Using an aged old method of farming the family allow their traditional Norfolk turkey and geese plenty of time to grow to maturity without using any growth promoters or antibiotics, giving a far superior quality of bird with natural gamey flavours. Although this is a much more costly way of rearing and processing compared to today’s factory methods, the end result is far superior. Everything is processed on the farm, graded and hung in large chillers (minimum 10 days) to make them exceptionally tender, adding all the natural flavours that this type of production depends on. Available from local butchers and farm shops and the farm gate. Contact: telephone 01953 483216 or 07766 588166Email: [email protected]: Great Grove Poultry, Whews Farm, Caston, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 1BSwww.greatgrovepoultry.co.uk

James Gulliver - geeseA Brecks Goose Breeder; Stow and Super Stow breeds of geese, supplying goslings to the UK goose production market. Contact: telephone 01953 483306 Email: [email protected]: Church Farm, Stow Bedon, Attleborough, Norfolk

Jon DawContact: telephone 07795 381625Email: [email protected]: Tile Farm Cottage, Lady Drove, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0AG

Louise Smolen - Pekin bantam breederContact: telephone 07825 545356Email: [email protected]: 36 Feltwell road, Southery, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0NP Mark WallaceSupplier of Lohman pol and other laying Hens; Silkies, Pekins, Marrans, Orpingtons, Bantams, Quail, hatching eggs and Chicks for all of the above; laying Hens, chicks and eggs sold.Contact: telephone 07979 484105 Email: [email protected] Location: Windy corner, Mill lane, Rickinghall, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 1HGwww.windypoultry.co.uk

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Peele’s Norfolk Black TurkeysProducers of Norfolk Black turkeys which are traditionally reared free range from their own stock birds which are naturally mated. They are fed and fattened on their home produced corn giving a tight grained moist white meat free of additives, but with a gamey flavour. Tasted and praised by Ade Edmonson on his TV series Ade Around Britain. Norfolk Black Turkeys and other rare breeds of turkeys also sold as chicks, growers or fattened for Christmas. A delivery service of finished turkeys throughout Breckland and the UK is offered. Contact: telephone 01362 850237 Email: [email protected] Location: Rookery Farm, Thuxton, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 4QJOpen: Christmas week, other times by appointment. Also live chicks, poults and stock collection from farm.www.peelesblackturkeys.co.uk

Wayland Free Range EggsFresh free range eggs produced and packed on the farm where the hens have access to fields where thousands of trees have been planted to encourage the birds outside. Eggs are delivered regularly throughout East Anglia. Contact: telephone 01953 457393 or 07986 517681Email: [email protected]: Rookery Farm, Great Ellingham, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 1PMOpen: 8am – 7pm, daily. Also available from local butchers and farm shops including Ashill fruit farm. www.waylandfreerange.com

HEN KEEPiNGMore and more people hate buying mass- produced eggs. Farmers Markets are an excellent way of buying really good fresh eggs direct from the hen keeper but you could harvest your own supply from the comfort of your garden. The Henkeepers’ Association estimate that the number of households keeping hens in the UK has more than doubled in the past decade to more than half a million owners.Francine Raymond, lived in Troston in Suffolk for many years and author of ‘Keeping A Few Hens In Your Garden’ and host of hen-keeping courses shares some of her wisdom for new hen keepers.....

Ensure you have enough spaceYou can keep hens in a small-town garden on a bed of bark chippings if you have no lawn, but the plot size will dictate how many you can keep. I would suggest you need at least 12sq ft for a pair of hens, allowing for a run alongside the hen-house. Ideally, you’d move the run around a lawn to offer fresh grass and allow time to repair damage. Let the hens out regularly to roam free (make sure your garden is secure first, with a 6ft-high fence).

Choosing Hens If you’ve only got a small space, go for bantams, a smaller, pure-bred hen. Those with more space could opt for a standard size hen, or a hybrid. These have been cross-bred to be prolific egg-layers - usually one a day. However, if you’re a keen gardener, beware - hybrids will eat everything if you let them roam around. Pure breeds tend to have a life expectancy of eight to ten years. Hybrids have a shorter lifespan (three or four years), but lay daily. My hens are pure-bred Buff Orpingtons which are big birds, but quite easy to keep and friendly.

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Woodend Green Farm: Katie Rothwell and Tom Stocking“My name is Katie and along with my partner Tom we rear and breed poultry and other livestock for the back garden keeper, breeder and smallholder. We stock a variety of birds including pure breeds, bantams and hybrids to name a few! I have lived and grown up on a farm all my life and have kept chickens from the age of five. My first two hens were two Rhode Island Reds called Clara and Henrietta and every since then my interest and love for keeping chickens has grown and grown! Tom has also kept chickens from an early age so between us we hope we can offer you plenty of experience and advice”.Contact: telephone 07879 214453 Email: [email protected] Location: Woodend Green Farm,Thurston, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolkwww.purebreedpoultry.com

Fabien R Eagle, Poultry AuctioneerFabien Eagle’s family have been involved in poultry farming since 1892, but now the auction side of the business has taken over. Fabian stages monthly poultry auctions at Elveden Farms on Sundays throughout the summer months as well as at Holywell Row, Mildenhall every Wednesday and Swaffham Poultry Market every Saturday throughout the year. You can buy everything from a tiny bantam to a 30 inch high Brahama chicken. Brahamas have feathered legs and a gentle disposition and surprisingly, for the size of the bird, lay quite small eggs. A chicken can sell from as little as £1 to say £20 for a Aracana, that lays green and blue eggs. Fabien says each breed of chicken has a different character and you get the most noise from small cockerels! It’s not just chickens that are on sale, there are ducks and geese too.

Start smallI suggest starting with three or four hens: it’s a manageable number, and you may change your mind about the breed you’d like. Also, if all your hens are the same age, they’ll all start and stop laying at the same time, so it’s good to stagger their age to keep a productive laying cycle.

Buy hens from reputable suppliersI advise against buying on the internet. Instead, get a specialist poultry magazine and search the small ads. Go and see the supplier and check that the environment the hens are bred in is clean: you want healthy birds that have been reared in a good environment. Don’t start with a cockerelI recommend buying only females when you’re starting out, then add a cockerel when you’re ready to breed your own birds. The minute you have a cockerel, the eggs become fertile, the hens will sit on them and then they could hatch and become chicks.

Beginners should avoid ‘rescue’hensI don’t recommend beginners taking on former battery hens, because they have a shorter life expectancy and they can often be quite traumatised, meaning they’ll take time and effort to settle.

Find a good homeMost problems in hens are caused by stress, so space is important. The poultry press is great for finding different hen-house styles, but you can adapt a shed: hens simply need shelter from the elements and from predators, space to move around and food. If you’re looking for an easy-to-maintain home, Omlet does a little Eglu, or a bigger Eglu Cube. Try to make sure your hen house is off the ground and can be shut at night, to deter rats and foxes.


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And don’t assume all ducks quack the same, because some breeds “coo” a bit like a pigeon.Pure breeds and cross breed poultry are sold, Large Fowl and Bantams. Breeds can include Sussex, Marans, Brahmas, Cochins, Pekins, Polish, Rhode Island Reds, Old English Game, D’uccles, Japanese, Legbars, Araucanas to name a few. They also sell a wide variety of Point of Lay, hybrid pullets for egg production, for example, Amberlinks and Bluebells.Most weeks domestic ducks and geese are entered, farmyard white ducks and geese and callducks as well as Indian Runners and Muscovies. Occasionally there may be ornamental waterfowl to sell such as Mandarins, Carolinas and Teal. A variety of small livestock, including all types of poultry and waterfowl as well as rabbits, hatching eggs and poultry feed are also featured in the auction.

Location: ‘Swaffham Poultry Market’, Lynn Road, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7BBThe poultry auction at Swaffham is on every Saturday. Gates open for entries at 8.30am until 11am. All lots must be booked in with the auctioneer by 11am. The auction commences at 11.30am.

Location: Eldon Farm, Holywell Row, Near Mildenhall, Norfolk, IP28 8NAThe poultry auction held at Holywell Row is on every Wednesday. Gates open for entries at 7.30am until 10am.

Daily careHens need feeding morning and night. A protein feed, usually in pellet form, is what encourages them to lay eggs and should be eaten for breakfast. Before bedtime, hens should have a mixed cornfeed or scraps (not meat or fish). Make sure you clear away uneaten food to avoid tempting rats in. Clean out the henhouse once a week.

The eggs-tra factorKeeping hens isn’t the cheapest way of obtaining eggs, but you can be sure of their provenance and it is the only sure-fire way of getting fresh eggs. With hybrid birds, you can expect an egg a day from about six months of age. With pure-breeds, you’ll probably have about five eggs a week for the first year of laying, then their laying season will get shorter, starting mid-February and ending in November. The older they get, the shorter their laying season.

And lastly...Hens are wonderfully rewarding. Keep your own and you have control over the quality of the birds’ lives and the benefit of enjoying their presence.

For details on Francine Raymond’s books, blog, shop and her henkeeping courses, visit www.kitchen-gardenhens.co.uk For general advice, visit www. henkeepersassociation.co.uk. For egg houses, including starter kits with a pair of organically reared hens, visit www.omlet.co.uk


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The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of The Brecks nor any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for inaccurancies of any description, although The Brecks would be pleased to receive amendments for possible inclusion in future editions.

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