Spring has Sprung at Happy Valley

Wedding Season is about to kick off here at Happy Valley and we’re reminded of some of the beautiful Spring Weddings from last year.

There’s endless back drops to choose from for your outdoor ceremony whether you’re looking for an “I Do” on the island surrounded by water or immersed in the forest for a Woodland Wedding. There’s nothing quite like nature to calm those Wedding nerves.

No need to panic if Spring has sprung a leak. We’ve got 2 barns and a gorgeous undercover area to hold your ceremony when the great British Weather ins’t playing ball.

The amazing suppliers we had the pleasure of working with for Jennie and Jamies special Spring Wedding -
Photographer - Aurora Grey Photography Flowers - @wildfolkflowers Catering @funnellskitchen Film - @shutterboxfilms Music @boujeemusiclive

Gorgeous reminder of Kate & Ollie’s beautiful May Wedding at Happy Valley last year.

Kates vision came to life with this stunning outdoor ceremony on Willow island followed by woodland pics & a barn wedding reception. Photographer - @artandstorystudio Florist - @thenorfolkfloralstudio Videographer - Moon Cast Cake - @bunsoffunemma Evening Caterers @SquillaandSquidge Daytime Caterers - Tom Oldridge

Elly & Billy rocked an April Wedding at Happy Valley using the wizard tree as the alter with the water in the backdrop. Supported by some amazing suppliers below -

Hayley Clark Make up, Dick Ropa Entertainment. The Nashville Heat. Alice Cunliffe Photography Wild Folk Florist

Wishing you all a wonderful Easter Holidays and can’t wait to see you for celebrations this year.

LOVE the little Happy Valley Crew.

x

Enjoy the Apres Ski Party at the Cattle Yard

Don't panic if you can't get on the slopes this year, join us instead for all the classic alpine party vibes with a rock twist.

The Cattle Yard to host an Apres Ski Party to remember on Friday 27th January 2023 from 7pm.

Leave the ski's at home and dance off those January Blues to live music from Dirty Havana who take the stage from 8pm with two hour long sets of feel good, sing along, dancey rock tunes.

Apres Ski Party in West Norfolk - Happy Valley - 27:01:23

Feast on exceptional burgers and loaded fries from the infamous dirty frier boys & chill in front of roaring log fires with local ales & alpine spritz from our winter cocktail menu.

Dress code: Retro winter party wear, ski gear is not essential but highly recommended. The brighter the better.
Prizes for the best effort outfit.

Complete your ski weekend by staying on site in an authentic rustic-luxe log cabin complete with private hot tub.
https://www.happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk/glamping-accommodation

Only 200 tickets available, once they're gone they're gone.
£5 per ticket in advance with complimentary glass of gluhwein must be bought before the 25th January or £10 on the night.
Get your ticket for the guest list now or cry later

email hello@thecattleyard.uk to get your tickets or drop us a message.

Inhale the pine forest and dance like nobody is watching

Our Guide To Halloween & Guy Fawkes In Norfolk This Year

It’s most definitely worth a visit to our glorious county of Norfolk this spooky season, as we are brimming with activities and events to keep the whole family entertained. Even behind all of the festivities and fabulous attractions, stripped-back Norfolk is well known for its fabulous coastline, boutique coastal towns and plenty of nature to explore. There is something around every turn that everyone can enjoy, whether it's for a romantic trip, a family getaway filled with adventure, or for those who desire to discover historic sites and nature.

If you fancy a ghoulishly good weekend for Halloween

Your little ones will love BeWilderwood this Halloween

Be prepared to be scared at Primevil Scare

• Halloween Phantomine Monster Mayhem @ Kings Lynn Corn Exchange Friday 28th ‑ Saturday 29th October

  “A night filled with singing, laughing, cheering and booing to the very end as you help Prince Ludicrous Blackfeet find his Princess before the crazy Professor Pitfall commands her Monster Creation to steal her away for the evil Skeleton King”

• The Glorious Glowing Lantern Parade @ Bewilderwood Norfolk - Saturday 15th – Monday 31st October

  "A glorious opportunity to see BeWILDerwood by night and meet all your forest friends awaits! Start your adventure at Hazel’s Hideaway, then journey through the WILD woods as lanterns light your way through our enchanting woodland.”

• Primevil Scare @ Roarr Dinosaur Park - Friday 14th ‑ Monday 31st October

  A great event for the teens and the adults who dare to face spooks and scares this Halloween. The event is also back for its 13th year of fear! There will be five terrifying haunts full of scares and twists and turns, street performing actors, and plenty of entertainment. They will have a licensed bar and street food vendors too. Primevil Scare is not suitable for those under 12. Also note that strobe and flashing lights are used.

• Bawsey Halloween Night @ Bawsey Estate & Country Park - Sunday 30th 5pm ‑ 9pm

  “Join us on Halloween night for some spooky family fun at Bawsey Country Park from 5.00 pm to 9.00 pm. Take a walk through the woods, find all the pumpkins and claim a Halloween treat for the kids. With fun and games from BTs Roadshow you won't want to miss this fantastic evening at Bawsey Country Park.”

Where To Watch The Sky Light Up For Guy Fawkes

Enjoy not just the fireworks but the coastline at Hunstanton this November 5th

Can’t get out for Guy Fawkes? Don’t worry, Norwich Autumn Lights has you covered on Saturday 12th of November!

• Hunstanton Clifftop Fireworks Display ‑ Saturday 5th November @ 5 Lighthouse Cl, Hunstanton gates on at 5.45pm

  A great place to watch fireworks this Guy Fawkes is the Hunstanton Clifftop Fireworks Display happening on Saturday 5th November. Gates open at 5.45 pm with fireworks and a laser display to follow at 7.30 pm. Only a 20-minute drive from Happy Valley, then come back to your cabin afterwards and enjoy a bubbling hot tub or unwind around the fire pit with a glass of bubbly to complete your evening.

• Downham Market Fireworks by The Round Table - Saturday 5th November @ Stradsett Hall and Country Park, Stradsett Country Park, Stradsett, King’s Lynn, PE33 9HA Gates open @ 4.30pm
  Fireworks Extravaganza @7.30pm

  This year they have the amazing Jak Ropa Entertainments on stage, with a whole new stage, sound and lighting rig - to create the most amazing festival vibe. They have some amazing LED dancers and fire dancers performing for them
  and more food and drink vendors than ever before with something for everyones tastebuds. The fairground will be on site as always, with rides like the runaway train, dodgems, crazy house, hook a duck and much much more - why not take an aerial view from their big wheel, and really get to see whats happening..

• Norfolk Showground Autumn Lights ‑ Saturday 12th November 4:00 PM ‑ 10:00 PM @ Norfolk Showground Arena, Costessey, Norwich

  If you fancy a further drive out for the biggest fireworks event in Norfolk (and you can’t get out on Guy Fawkes weekend) on Saturday 12th November, Norfolk Showground is hosting it’s Autumn Lights Fireworks Fiesta. With children’s display alongside the main display later in the evening, glowing roaming entertainers, large street food and drink village, DJ’s, funfair and more!

This is just a small selection of the events happening in Norfolk this Halloween and Guy Fawkes, if we had decided to put them all on our blog, you would be here reading for hours! If you would like to browse more events however that are on in the area click think links below;

- Best Halloween Events In Norfolk -

- Best Bonfire Events In Norfolk -

We still have some limited glamping availability for both of these fun filled weekends, so if you fancy an escape into the woodland, click the ‘Glamping’ tab at the top of this page to browse our accommodation and book your stay.

The Cattle Yard Launch

Well…. What can I say. We were blown away with the most incredible turnout for the Launch of the Cattle Yard on the 1st October 2022.

Thank you so much for your patience on the Bar. Cocktail hour went down a treat and we loved serving you all.

We have received the most incredible feedback so are already plotting our next events.

We love promoting local and we know there’s a huge amount of talent right here in Norfolk so please can you share your favourite Norfolk based band in the comments below if you’d like to see them play here at The Cattle Yard

Here’s some pics just before the opening from @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

Pic - @MadeinSnetty

picture by Cara Liggins

Are You Ready For The Most Astrologically Powerful Day Of 2022?

As much as we love the natural world around us at Happy Valley Norfolk, we also absolutely love everything about our universe and astrology, because it has such an impact on our lives on Earth. Every year on the 8th of August, the sun in Leo, the star Sirius, Orion's Belt, and the Earth all align to form what is widely known as The Lion’s Gate Portal. It's a hugely significant astrological phenomenon that provides an opportunity to manifest more abundance than you could ever imagine. Are you curious to learn more about what this means for you? Here's an insight into the Lion's Gate portal and how to use its powerful energy.

The Power Of The Number 8

In numerology and astrology, the number 8 is a powerhouse. It stands out most in terms of the houses and signs of the zodiac and it acts as a bridge between the material and spiritual realms. There is no wonder why the 8th day of the 8th month is so super powerful. The date opens up an enchanting spiritual window for all zodiac signs to set intentions, embrace abundance, and create new beginnings. Just imagine all you’ve been manifesting put under a magnifying glass by the universe… prepare yourself for a bit of a blastoff. So what could you do to make the most of it?

Lean Into Your Inner Leo (Whatever Your Sign May Be)

This fire-ruled sign is known for confidence and courage just like a lion. Leo season allows us to feed our passions, live loudly and unapologetically, and fan the flame of our desires. It's also the season of celebration, so do things that make you feel your best and celebrate yourself! Whether in self-care, dancing around, meditating or exercising; whatever makes you feel good about yourself, do it! In order for you to get the most out of this divine time, feeling good and letting go of your doubts are key.

Remind Yourself You Deserve Your Desires & Let Go Of Your Doubts

A massive factor in manifesting and spiritual growth is having faith in yourself and having faith in what is on its way to you. We all deserve abundance and the universe is brimming with it for absolutely everyone, it just needs you to open your door and welcome that abundance into your life. For you to get the most out of this divine time, feeling good and letting go of your doubts are key. Because when we feel good, we let out high vibrational vibes and guess what - the universe returns us with more situations to feel great about and during The Lions Gate Portal - those vibes are multiplied even more so.

Set The Bar High For Your Intentions & Prepare For Big Shifts

Sirius is well known for being the brightest star in the night sky (twice the size of our sun) and is considered to be the sun of the spiritual world. It will be at its most powerful this Monday, with its highest vibrational energy pushing on our manifestations, awakenings and growth. Take a moment alone when you are relaxed to write down your manifestations; I like to do this after a relaxing bath or a long walk, so that I have refreshed mindset. As you jot down your desires for what you want to bring into your life, try to visualise them. Visualisation can be a great tool to get over your manifesting blocks and can help us focus on positive things. What is your reaction when your intention manifests? With Leo's sun amplifying our passionate side and Sirius representing wealth and abundance, now is the time to dream BIG. Set your intentions high and prepare for some absolute magic in your life.

Practice Your Gratitude

Lastly but certainly still one of the most important; be filled with gratitude. Even if it’s the smallest thing you can find each day to be grateful for, focus on that feeling of appreciation and it will grow daily. The more we are thankful for the more the universe will give us to be thankful for. This practice is fantastic for our mental and physical health, it can also help us sleep better and improve our self-esteem. Do the things that make you happy to help your heart open and expand to a world of possibilities.

There is never a wrong time to practise appreciation, lean into love or focus on anything you want to manifest. However, in the instance of the August 8 Lion's Gate portal, it's possible that your endeavours may be enhanced beyond your wildest expectations.

At Happy Valley Norfolk we love to welcome those into our whimsical woodland looking for a space for yoga retreats, forest bathing and spiritual groups. The woodland is full of energy throughout the year whatever the season may be, each brings its own divine forces, moon phases and uniqueness. To get in touch please email us via the contact information on this website.

Our whimsical woodland and Willow Island are a dreamland, for harnessing the powers of the Earth and the universe

Something wonderful and magical is about to happen - are you ready?

Manifesting and cleansing our crystals with the power of nature at Happy Valley

5 Reasons To Take A Family Glamping Trip This August

Whether it was a single trip as a child or regular weekend getaways, chances are you've been camping at least once. But have you ever thought about or tried glamping? The opportunity to spend time in nature is frequently the most compelling reason to choose a glamping getaway. With so much technology in our lives, from smartphones to smart homes, many travellers are choosing to reconnect with nature and escape the chaos of modern-day life. Whether a totally new experience for everyone or a chance to rekindle those childhood memories with your loved ones, here are our top five reason’s to love glamping this August.

1. It’s The Best Of Both Worlds

   Because glamping is derived from camping, it means that you get all the best parts - but way less stress and way more luxuries. At Happy Valley, we have real beds, home comforts, fire pits and hot tubs… all are set in the heart of 9 acres of woodland to explore. With fire pits for marshmallow toasting, barbecuing and storytelling around the fire in the evenings, you still get to grab the best parts of a fun camping trip, just with the added luxuries.

2. It’s An Affordable Family Break Away

   It’s so easy to plan a last-minute glamping trip with your family, without the stress of flights, passports and all the extra added stress (and costs) that jetting abroad brings. Staycations offer you a viable alternative to travelling abroad with less travel time, reduced travel fees and often cheaper activities whilst you are there. In Norfolk this season, there is lots going on from carnivals and festivals to family attractions such as BeWilderwood, Sandringham Estate and exploring the Norfolk coastline.

3. Make New Memories & Traditions

   Just like we all have birthday or Christmas traditions for example, why not start a glamping tradition with your kids this summer? It will be something that the whole family can enjoy, you can explore new areas and it will be something that they will remember for life. It’s also fabulous for a couple of families looking to get away and enjoy a new experience together, so you can all stay in the same place and share all of the fun.

4. A Natural Experience

   There is no comparison between staying in a resort or hotel and experiencing nature in the wild. Being in the great outdoors provides us with a sense of freedom that other vacations do not provide. It can also make us truly appreciate the natural world we live in and make us think more consciously about how to be more sustainable when we get home. This is also a great learning curve for your children, implementing an eco-friendly mindset from an early age.

5. Recharge Everyone’s Batteries Before Autumn

Taking yourself off the grid is a great way to rejuvenate yourself before the school holidays end. Nature is good for your emotional, physical, and spiritual batteries. It offers a sense of calm and peace. In these moments, you become conscious and gain a new perspective on whatever is going on in your life. You’ll return home with a fresh headspace and feel revived from your trip away. As we love to say; disconnect to reconnect, and being in nature with your family is the perfect place to do so.

To book your last-minute getaway, click the ‘Glamping” tab at the top of our website. We also now have our books open for bookings from September - early January 2023.

Toad Hall - Only available for one 3 night stay this month Monday 29th August - Thursday 1st September

Explore the wildlife and the woodland at Happy Valley Norfolk

Our gorgeous Keepers Cabin nestled in the pine trees

A Summers Escape For Couples

Norfolk is a fantastic place to get the first taste of summer, and it's even better for couples at this time of year. June and July make great months for romantic getaways because it’s the time of year you can escape before school holidays and before a season of social events go into full swing. In this tranquillity, you can disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with each other. Happy Valley Norfolk could be your answer for a unique first getaway for you and your loved one or a spontaneous change from jetting abroad for those looking for something different. Premarital couples can strengthen their foundation as they prepare for marriage, and long-term couples take their relationship to the next level - all with the help of a little nature.

Our gorgeous bell tents are now available to book. Great for couples looking for a luxe glamping experience in a whimsical woodland.

The great thing about nature is that it’s more than what meets the eye, especially when it comes to couples. By unplugging ourselves from our daily lifestyles, stresses and technology and immersing ourselves in nature, we have precious time to focus one on one - mind, body, and spirit. No distractions, just peace, bonding and strengthening. Studies have shown over the years that time spent in nature reduces anxiety, blood flow improves and also your mood improves. This being said, it’s not only good for bringing us closer it’s also vital for our health. It's almost magical how a couple can become closer and enjoy each other's company more with a little help from Mother Nature.

Woodland and wildlife greet you just outside each cabin and bell tent door. Three of our cabins also have their own private luxury hot tubs, making your stay at our retreat even more special. We are set in 9 acres of woodland and there are an extra 200 acres of woodland adjoining Happy Valley, meaning that there is plenty to explore with your partner without even leaving our retreat. In addition to all of our romantic getaway guests, we have witnessed so many gorgeous marital proposals and woodland weddings throughout the years. We are truly blessed with a retreat constantly filled with love. To book your romantic getaway at Happy Valley Norfolk, head over to the “Glamping” section of our website.

How You Can Be A Wardrobe Warrior & Help Save Our Planet

Did you know that the fashion industry and production make up around 10% of humanity's carbon emissions? Sustainable fashion refers to clothing and textiles that have been created in a way that is mindful of the vast environmental issues the fashion industry touches on. The good news is, by working together we can lower these effects, by making simple changes to the way we shop and what we wear.

You don't need to throw everything out of your wardrobe and replace it with a full sustainable line. It isn't as difficult as you may think to get started on a sustainable wardrobe and it's worth it for the future of our planet. Here are some key factors we can be mindful of is;

Made with plant-based, biodegradable and other consciously chosen ingredients.

• Take care of your clothes and the world at the same time - By buying higher quality items, our brains automatically want to look after them better. Buying less but better quality is much better than buying hauls of cheap items. With the warmer and sunnier days, we can hang washing out instead of tumbler drying, this will prolong the life of your clothes and reduce energy usage from indoors. At Happy Valley, we also love to use the brand Ecover in our laundry room. This is an eco-friendly cleaning brand, made from plant and mineral-based ingredients.

• If you can choose a more ethical brand, why not try it? - When buying online apart from looking at reviews, do you ever really take note about where those clothes are made? What are the working conditions like? Is it a brand hoping for a more sustainable future or are they just greenwashing?

• What to do with them when we no longer want them? - Instead of a trip to the bin, how about a trip to the local charity shop? And who knows while your there what you may find for yourself! Personally I love charity shops, I have found so many great items in them and lots of things that were new or nearly new, even designer items.

• Trans-seasonal items are the way forward- The problem isn’t exactly fast fashion, it’s also down to how much your going to use that item. When shopping think about how much use you will get out of it. Instead of shelling out on the latest trends, opt for timeless pieces that can work in any season.

Chloé's Fall 2021 collection could be considered "four times more sustainable compared to last year."

In the current climate of the world, more and more brands are recognising the importance of looking after our environment. Luxury brand Chloé plans on increasing its lower impact materials and fair trade sourcing across all categories by 2025.​ In their 2021 AW collection, more than 80% of the collection's cashmere yarn was recycled and over 50% of silk was derived from organic agriculture.

We at Happy Valley love educating ourselves on ways to be more environmentally friendly because there is always something new to learn and something we can improve on. We also like to influence our guests and social media followers with useful tips, so if you have any, please share them in the comments section below.

Days Out In Norfolk That Won't Break The Bank

The warmer weather is right on our doorstep and as much as it can be wonderful to spend some extra time with your loved ones, it can also feel stressful trying to plan things to do. Not to fear, because we have put together a list of budget family days out in Norfolk, that will help you keep the full family entertained and make some marvellous memories, whilst sticking to a budget. We are so lucky to be so rich in history, nature and culture and lots of it are free to visit. For nature lovers, there are miles upon miles of beaches, woodland and wildlife sites. The county is bursting with things to do, that you won’t find in other places.

1) Be A Royal For The Day At Sandringham Estate Walk the woodlands - Free / Sandringham House & Gardens - £13 just for the Gardens or £23 for both

The Queen's Country Retreat and the Royal Family’s only private home and estate in England. “Explore Sandringham Royal Parkland this spring, by foot or by bike. The 600 acre Royal Park has two way-marked trails winding through woodlands & parkland with further unmarked paths for you to explore.” Alongside the vast woodland and grounds to explore, there is also The Sandringham House and gardens to soak up some history in. Take a break at in the courtyard for some refreshments and browse the estates favourite produce in the gift shop. A great event coming up is Sandringham’s Food, Craft, and Wood Festival which will be taking place on April 30th, 1st & 2nd of May.

2) Explore The Unknown With Norfolk Hidden Gems From just £22 for the whole group

“As you travel you earn points by visiting destinations, solving clues & completing challenges. The Travel League lets you compete with fellow explorers! Each season win amazing prizes & become the UK’s Greatest Explorer!” Norfolk Hidden Gems is a self-guided tour and treasure hunt travel experience and all you need is a mobile phone, to use the smartphone travel tool. You can explore over 100 destinations and challenges, avoid the crowds and it’s flexible to start at anytime. Just pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover hidden gems & incredible places you may never find alone.

3) Visit The South Asia Collection For A Dose Of History & Culture Admission - Free

If you like a dash of city life and love discovering culture, in the heart of Norfolk the city of Norwich, there is plenty to do and see for free such as visiting The South Asia Collection. Housed in a restored Victorian roller skating rink in the centre of Norwich, just a short walk from the market place. “A Grade II listed architectural gem, with a dramatic arched wooden roof, the Old Skating Rink was first opened on the 19th September 1876. Over a hundred years later in 1993 Philip and Jeannie Millward, the founders of The South Asia Collection, purchased the building and embarked on a major refurbishment. Today, exhibition displays and large carved architectural pieces from South Asia can be seen beside the galleries where admiring Victorians once looked out across the skaters beneath the impressive arched roof.”

4) The Norfolk Coastline Free To Explore

There's plenty to see and do along Norfolk's 90-mile coastline, from beautiful beaches with salt marshes to shingle spits, fine sand and estuaries. There are tons of coastal villages and towns to visit including Sheringham which is well-known for its beautiful beaches and cliffs, Wells-Next-The-Sea where families enjoy crabbing and multiple events during the year and of course, Heacham and Hunstanton, which are practically on our doorstep.

We are very fortunate to be located near a variety of activities to do and places to visit for free. We have the highest concentration of mediaeval churches in the world, with 659. North Norfolk is one of the few sites in the UK where you can view the northern lights, and the vast beach at Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea is routinely rated the best beach in the country.

To book your stay at Happy Valley for a truly unique glamping experience, click on the “Glamping” tab at the top of this website.