Happy Valley Norfolk's Pre-Loved Pop-Up Market

Wow! What a blast our Pre-Loved Pop-Up Market was on Sunday the 23rd March 2025.

With over 25 stalls all set up, the cars started rolling in and a steady stream of sustainable shoppers through the door all day we couldn’t have been happier. It’s such a pleasure to be a part of the secondhand movement that is only going to get bigger as we consumers become more aware of our impact on the planet. Before we recap the amazing day we had, if you are interested in booking on to our NEXT market and experiencing the thrill of thrifting secondhand treasures, then please fill out this form to register your interest.

The day began with stallholders setting up their treasures, and so the Happy Valley team got a sneak peek at all the wonderful bargains that were on offer! Tea, coffee and cake sales were setting up in The Hay Barn lean to whilst stallholders set up in The Dutch Barn, The Cattleyard Covered Area and The Hay Barn. We even had delicious Hawaiian inspired Poke Bowls by the talented Pokenom Adventures serving in the Cattle Yard Courtyard. The atmosphere was buzzing, the sun was giving us a flash of spring and we waited for the first shoppers to arrive with great anticipation.

11am came and went and shoppers were piling in to see the stalls and their wares, coffee and cake in aid of the Men’s Shed was flying out the door, the Marshall Bar was full and the Happy Valley Team were spying bargains everywhere.

The community spirit was high and we were so blessed to have so many wonderful sellers with us from the locality; from gorgeous future Happy Valley bride Georgina with her vintage and roll end fabrics, yarns and haberdashery, Vintage Designer from Wardys Vintage, Beautiful Summer dresses and accessories from The Vintage Hippy, Heather from local business Kip McGrath selling her gorgeous hand made jewellery, Antiques from Dawns Emporium, Lonestar jack selling vintage clothing, seasonal decor, and pre loved, vintage gems and furniture, Sue Bunting (Going to Grandmas) selling lots of handmade knits, repurposed designs to super stylish mummy Milllie, Harriet, Angela and Lucy Masons incredible vintage and secondhand clothing, we even had Brancaster Vodka join us with a rail of timeless classics from the best designers and not forgetting local Norwich based Designer Pre Loved by Penny there was something for everyone under one eclectic roof! As well as crafts and clothes we were treated to designer children’s clothes at incredible prices, toys and books, antique collectibles, men’s streetwear, vintage handbags, homeware and more.

Whilst we’re so excited about the next pre-loved market, we are also busy planning for The Wilderness Wedding Fair on the 12th October 2025 and we need YOU our pre-loved wonder sellers to help make the event exceptional. Do you have a pre-loved Mother of the Bride outfit that it’s time to part with? Perhaps you have a few bridesmaid dresses (new or vintage) or even a wedding dress that needs a new home? It doesn’t have to be a modern wedding dress. With a growing trend for vintage weddings on the horizon we are keen to showcase all sorts of wedding outfits - from Art Deco to the Swinging Sixties! If that sounds like you and you’d like to be part of our Wilderness Wedding Fair then please fill out this form.

Thanks to your incredible generosity we raised £368.50 for the King’s Lynn Men’s Shed through the sale of tea, coffee and homemade cakes.

We’d also like to say a big thank you to Alex at Wildkin Weddings who took all these incredible photographs of the event.




We can not wait for the next one and thank you again for creating another magical event here at Happy Valley. X










5 Ways to Celebrate the Spring Equinox

The first day of spring according to our celestial calendar is this Thursday the 20th of March. Not only does it bring with it the promise of warmer days and lighter evenings, but also new life across all of nature. The world is waking up from its winter slumber and reminding us how beautiful renewal can be. The Spring Equinox, or Ostara, is the perfect time for setting new intentions and aligning ourselves with a new energy - one that can carry us into rebirth and whatever that means for you.

If you love the idea of celebrating the first day of spring, but you’re not sure how to - then this blog post is for you!

1) MAKE A SUN-CATCHER WITH YOUR CHILDREN

This easy DIY craft uses materials you probably already have in your home and is a wonderful way to have a conversation with little ones about the changing seasons. Go for a little nature walk to collect some leaves, daisies, grass - anything that symbolises new life and watch little adventurers celebrate the extra hours of sunlight with this wholesome craft. For a full tutorial on how to make one, click here.

2) PLAN AND MAKE A SPRINGTIME MEAL

The new season is a perfect opportunity to head to a farmer’s market near you and see what local produce they have available. Planning a family meal around a set list of ingredients feels like a mindful way to align with nature whilst nourishing your body at the same time.

3) DECORATE EGGS TO DISPLAY

With Easter on the horizon, now is a great time to decorate eggs and display them in your home. Eggs are a popular symbol of Ostara since they suggest fertility and birth. Ostara takes its name after the Germanic goddess Eostre/Ostara, who was traditionally honoured with festivals to celebrate re-birth. You could use real eggs (after washing them) or wooden eggs to create centrepieces or hanging decorations.

4) SET NEW INTENTIONS

Sun through the trees at Happy Valley Norfolk

At Happy Valley Norfolk we love setting intentions for the season ahead, and spring is no exception. Whilst the rest of the world celebrates the New Year in January, we like to celebrate it in spring.

It’s a wonderful time to look back on the year and reflect, practice some yoga or meditation and think about how you want the rest of the year to look for you. If you’ve been wanting to try a new hobby, perhaps cycling or willow weaving, the universe is in the perfect place to support you now.

5) SPEND A WEEKEND IN NATURE

There’s no better time than spring in nature; ducklings adorn every pond, lambs frolic happily in the fields, daffodils inject energy into every countryside view, children can collect daisies again, and you can enjoy longer days and evenings outside. A glamping getaway at Happy Valley Norfolk is the perfect place to spend a few days this season. Check out this blog post for an array of family-friends activities that are happening around Easter near us. Whether you’re looking for a cosy shepherd’s hut with a fire pit to really get in tune with nature, or a luxury lodge with a hot tub so you can unwind in total peace and tranquillity, there’s accommodation for every traveller at Happy Valley Norfolk. Book your stay with us now and experience the magic of the woods during this special time.


10 Tips for Curating a Successful Stall at a Second Hand Market

If you’re not sure how to maximise your profits when selling second-hand clothing, this blog post is for you. In preparation for our Pre-Loved Pop-Up Market this Sunday, we’ve put together some tips on curating a successful stall that your customers (and your piggy bank) will love!

CURATE, CURATE, CURATE!

It’s really worth thinking about how you set your items out and how they will look together either on a rail or a table. For clothes, consider arranging them by colour palette for an immediate visual hook that will draw customers towards your stall. For table displays, consider lifting some items higher than others by using boxes beneath a table cloth to add height.

THINK ABOUT THE SEASON WE’RE IN

It’s almost spring, so your chunky knitwear and Borg coats may not spark as much interest as your summer dresses and sandals. Homeware, decorations or party supplies for upcoming seasonal holidays (Mother’s Day, Easter etc) are also worth putting in the spotlight.

ENSURE YOUR OFFERINGS ARE CLEAN AND WELL-PRESENTED

There’s nothing that’ll put a customer off faster than browsing a stall and noticing rips, stains and/or odours. Ensuring your clothes are all washed, ironed and presented nicely will keep your customer browsing. It’s also worth making one final check for broken zips or pulled threads when your stall is ready to go.

DON’T ‘OVERSTUFF’ YOUR STALL!

Think about approaching your stall as a customer - does it look cluttered? By making sure your items are all presented well, you avoid the customer feeling overwhelmed and they are more likely to stay and browse. Think about creating the sort of environment you’d like to shop in and going from there.

DON’T FORGET YOUR FLOAT

Card payments are not the norm at a second-hand market, so ensure you have plenty of cash in your float in the form of pound coins and notes. Think about your pricing when it comes to putting your float together. For example, if you’re pricing things around the £5 mark, ensure you have lots of £1 coins as well as £10 notes and £5 notes. If you have lots of £1 toys or books, having a handful of 50p coins and 20p coins will be useful.

BE PREPARED FOR HAGGLERS

It’s a thrifters right to haggle, so be prepared on what you’re willing to offer them. Do you have high-end items that are non-negotiate on price? If so, consider putting them on their own separate rail. Sticking to your guns is fine, just remember to be respectful! And if you’re willing to negotiate then have an idea of these prices before the customer asks.

NO PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT

It’s important to strike a good balance between not being too pushy but being around if your customer has any questions. I always find that it’s best to hover nearby with a smile and let your customer know you’re there if they need you.

LABEL, LABEL, LABEL!

Do you have a wide range of clothes in multiple sizes? Labelling your items with a size will help customers make quick decisions. Ensure everything is individually priced with a label for any additional information that may not be immediately available.

TELL YOUR FRIENDS

Tell all your friends where you’ll be setting up a pre-loved stall so that they can make arrangements to come and browse. The more shoppers browsing, the more money you’ll make! So tell your best friends and your loved ones to meet you there.

MAKE NEW FRIENDS!

Get to know your neighbours when setting up and throughout the day. Events at The Cattle Yard always have a big community feel, so be prepared for lots of friendly faces and the possibility of new friendships.

We are so excited to welcome 25 different stalls to the market as well as Poke Nom Adventures who will be setting up with their mouth-watering Hawaiian-inspired Poke bowls! Coffee, tea and cake is being sold in aid of the King’s Lynn Men’s Shed too. So come hungry - grab some lunch and get involved in this exciting community event at Happy Valley Norfolk! See you there this Sunday the 23rd March 11am - 3pm.



Spring into Easter with a Stay at Happy Valley Norfolk

Easter Holiday Stays at Happy Valley Norfolk: A Springtime Escape

As Easter approaches, there's no better time to plan a relaxing countryside getaway, and Happy Valley offers the perfect retreat for families, couples, solo travellers and nature lovers alike. Nestled in the heart of Norfolk’s stunning countryside, this tranquil haven is the ideal place to celebrate the joys of spring and Easter with a blend of outdoor adventure, cozy accommodation with luxury hot tubs, and seasonal festivities.

Easter Sunday does not have a fixed date but falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox. This means it typically occurs between March 22 and April 25.

Easter Traditions

While Easter has deep religious significance, it is also widely celebrated with various cultural traditions, including:

  • Church Services: Many Christians attend special services on Easter Sunday to commemorate the resurrection.

  • Easter Eggs: Symbolizing new life, eggs are often decorated and exchanged. The tradition has evolved to include Easter egg hunts for children.

  • The Easter Bunny: A popular folklore figure that delivers eggs and treats to children, blending Christian and pagan traditions.

  • Easter Feasts: Many families gather for a special meal, often featuring lamb, ham, or other festive foods.

The Connection to Spring

Easter coincides with the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, reinforcing themes of renewal and rebirth. Many Easter customs, such as egg decorating and celebrating fertility, have roots in ancient pagan festivals that honored the changing seasons.

Overall, Easter is a time of joy, reflection, and celebration, whether observed as a religious event or a cultural tradition filled with fun and family gatherings.

Why Choose Happy Valley Norfolk for Easter?

What better place can you enjoy all of the Easter traditions than at Happy Valley. Renowned for its rural location, breathtaking landscapes, unique and comfortable hand crafted cabins, wildlife and peaceful surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a woodland hideaway, a luxury cabin, or a quirky glamping experience, just a stones throw from some of the best Norfolk eateries, landmarks and beautiful coastline there’s something for everyone. The charming accommodations blend seamlessly with nature, offering a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

During the Easter holiday, Happy Valley truly comes to life with blooming flowers, budding trees, and the gentle sounds of wildlife. It’s an excellent time to enjoy long walks, scenic bike rides, and even a spot of birdwatching. The crisp spring air and the warmth of the season create the perfect setting for outdoor exploration.

What about gathering a few families, sharing the childcare and taking over the whole site for your Easter staycation? See availability HERE -

Easter Activities for the Whole Family

Easter at Happy Valley is packed with fun-filled activities for guests of all ages. Some of the highlights include:

  • Easter Egg Hunts: Just down the road at Creeke Abbey Easter wonderland, where little ones can embark on an exciting Easter egg hunt through the site

  • Springtime Picnics: With lush green spaces and picturesque backdrops, guests can enjoy leisurely picnics surrounded by the beauty of nature.

  • Wildlife Spotting: As spring arrives, the area becomes a haven for local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, birds of prey, bats, hares, and a huge variety of bird species.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Whether it’s paddleboarding on the sea, exploring hidden trails, or enjoying a sunset stroll, there’s no shortage of adventure.

  • Relaxation & Wellness: For those looking to unwind, Happy Valley’s air source heated hot tubs and peaceful atmosphere make for a rejuvenating escape.

Local Easter Festivities

Beyond the comforts of Happy Valley, Norfolk is brimming with Easter events and attractions. Guests can visit local markets, historic sites, and even take a trip to the nearby coastline for a breath of fresh sea air. Local attractions like Sandringham Estate and Holkham Hall often host special Easter activities, adding even more charm to your holiday.

Book Your Easter Escape Today

With its enchanting woodland setting, cozy accommodations, and a variety of Easter-themed activities, Happy Valley Norfolk is the perfect destination for a springtime retreat. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-packed getaway or a peaceful escape, you’ll find everything you need to create unforgettable Easter memories.

Don’t miss out—book your Easter holiday stay at Happy Valley Norfolk today and embrace the beauty of spring in one of Norfolk’s most idyllic locations!

How to Slow Down Time with a Glamping Retreat at Happy Valley

Often one of the overriding feelings of getting older is a sense of panic that life is moving too fast. Children grow up too quickly, the holiday abroad didn’t last long enough, the weekend came and went. At what point can we stand still in our everyday life and say, “I am exactly where I need to be.’?

It’s not an easy thing to do and most of us may not ever master the skill, but at Happy Valley Norfolk we are committed to finding ways that we can all slow down time and feel content in our everyday. 

SPEND TIME WITH LOVED ONES

We are not experts but it seems that one of the easiest ways to slow down time is by spending time with friends and family. In this safe environment there's no need to do anything fast-paced or overly stimulating because time together is enough. A real chat around a crackling log burner while dinner is simmering on your woodland cabin stove, for example, is a wonderful way to feel the clock start to slow. Visit one of our family-friendly cabins; Toad Hall, Keeper’s Cabin, The Woodpecker or Moonshine Manor to indulge in family time and make memories to treasure.

ESCAPE INTO NATURE

Being in nature is another sure-fire way we can ensure time doesn’t get away from us. At Happy Valley Norfolk you are not only surrounded by woodland, you’ll be able to visit an enchanting little lake complete with bridged island as well as a Norfolk Wildlife Trust Site to gaze upon when staying in our brand new American-inspired Moonshine Manor. Toad Hall boasts 9 acres of wildflower meadow in front of it while every window in every cabin has something special to take in. Being mindful of our surroundings in this way helps us practice gratitude and in turn, take a breath.

INDULGE IN NEW EXPERIENCES

Photo by Alex Ellis, State of Love and Trust

I’m sure you’ll agree, dear reader, that as we age, time seems to speed up. Researchers have suggested that this is because when you’re young, everything is new! It’s as if we’re little aliens on a strange planet where everything is exciting. But as we get older, our experiences tend to merge into each other as we live certain years almost exactly as the one before. With fewer memories to decode, our brains trick us into thinking it was a shorter year than it actually was. A way we can combat this phenomenon is by having new experiences as much as possible; Learn a new language, master a new skill, set a goal for the year, engage in a new exercise, travel to somewhere you’ve never been before or try a glamping holiday for the first time. We’re biased but we think the last one there is the most effective!

Happy Valley Norfolk isn’t just a woodland glamping site - it’s a place where hearts and souls can gather and find energy in the most unexpected places. We want all our guests to experience that deep joy that comes from the slowing of time and feeling utterly content in the moment.


Come and visit us and try it for yourself

For other reasons to visit us here at Happy Valley Norfolk, read this blog post all about achieving a fulfilling getaway. 

Is it true that we get quieter as we age?

Is it true that we get quieter as we age?

American writer and author of, ‘Quiet’, Susan Cain suggests that we all become introverts as we age in a process scientists call, ‘intrinsic maturation.’ Is this true? Are our personalities really changing as we get older or are we simply quieter because we are mellowing into old age like a fine wine? I’m no scientist but I’m tempted to suggest it’s the latter.

Maybe we are quieter because we have finally learnt to listen - to ourselves, to our loved ones and to the rhythms of the world we live in. At Happy Valley Norfolk we’ve created accommodation that fits perfectly with this conscientious way of living. Within Toad Hall, with its treetop balcony and sunset terrace, the sounds of nature are all-consuming. In Keeper’s Cabin, our hand-crafted log cabin in the woods, a wraparound veranda with rocking chairs, outdoor seating area and fire pit turn listening into an art. Let loved ones tell stories as you dine in award-winning bistros nearby or take a short drive to the Norfolk Coast, where the sounds of nature are sure to fill you up.

Maybe we are quieter because we’ve discovered that life is not a race, and we actually have all the time in the world. Time is our most valuable commodity. We understand that on the deepest level here at Happy Valley Norfolk, which is why we give you all the tools you need during a stay with us to revel in whatever it is that brings you joy. While away the hours in Moonshine Manor’s private air source heated hot tub. Fill your senses with the pages of your favourite book inside the domed ceiling of The Woodpecker, taking in sprawling countryside views with every page-turn.

View from a woodland cabin

Maybe we are quieter because we have earned the right to reflect; on our past years, on our greatest achievements, on our mistakes, on our relationships, on the big things and the little things. Reflection comes easily in the woods, where vistas are interrupted only by towering trees. Plush king size beds with comfortable bedding, fully-equipped kitchens and crackling wood-burning stoves make for the perfect backdrop to your thoughts. Touches of bliss are dotted around everywhere, with spa hot tubs at Toad Hall, Moonshine Manor, The Woodpecker and Keeper’s Cabin offering the chance to reflect in pure luxury.

Two chairs around a roaring fire pit

Maybe we are quieter because we’ve realised with silence comes the gift of gratitude; the ability to pause, take a deep breath and know what’s truly important. Social circles may get smaller as we focus on our most important relationships. We may seek out nature more than we seek out large social gatherings. We may have mastered how to let things go in order to make room for peace and wellbeing.

“If the task of the first half of life is to put yourself out there, the task of the second half is to make sense of where you’ve been,” explains Cain.

Find your quiet at Happy Valley Norfolk with a woodland glamping stay that feeds the soul and nourishes you on every level. It’s true - we do get quieter as we age, but we believe that with maturing years comes a maturing of spirit that should be explored and celebrated, (but not too loudly, right?!)

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