Last Remaining Easter Availability at Happy Valley Norfolk

It’s not too late to book your glamping getaway in Norfolk and experience the magic of Happy Valley! If you’ve left it until the last minute, don’t worry. Keep reading and choose the cabin that’s a little bit of you.

TOAD HALL

With sweeping countryside and woodland views in every direction, Toad Hall sleeps 6 and is ideal for a special family getaway or milestone occasion. A private sunken hot tub, sunset terrace and morning treetop terrace and BBQ outside will fill your evenings with joy whilst inside you’ll be treated to luxurious accommodation, underfloor heating, a fully-equipped kitchen, wet room and wine fridge. We can’t really call it glamping at this point…

With rare availability from the 14th - 16th April and again from the 21st April, our luxurious lodge Toad Hall is going to be snapped up before you can finish reading this blog post! Grab that late availability by clicking here.

KING NUTKIN

Nestled away at the top of the woodland, surrounded by nature and silence, you’ll find King Nutkin - the original Happy Valley shepherd’s hut. Happily taking in the views for 9 glorious years, Nutkin has seen it all and has the stories of Happy Valley ingrained in its very foundations. Perfect for a couple or solo travellers, this romantic bolthole features a wrap-around deck with outdoor seating area, firepit/BBQ, log burner, comfy kingsize bed and all the facilities you wouldn’t expect when headed to the woods for a glamping getaway! We are glamping - not camping - after all.

King Nutkin has availability from the 4th April, book here.

MOONSHINE MANOR

If you love the romantic-cabin-in-the-woods vibe but also have kids in tow, then you’ll love Moonshine Manor. Ideal for families of 4, this American-inspired cabin in Norfolk offers luxurious accommodation across two floors with a cosy king-size bed upstairs and quirky handmade bunks downstairs. Outside, a bubbling hot tub overlooks endless countryside whilst a large firepit is perfect for roasting marshmallows and enjoying quality family time.

Moonshine Manor is available from the 9th - 11th April, the 16th - 18th April or the 21st - 23rd April. Book here.

KEEPER’S CABIN

Keeper’s Cabin - a breath of fresh woodland air. Entirely handcrafted with beautiful rustic detailing, this deluxe lodge nestled in Norfolk woodland sleeps 5 and is perfect for a group getaway. Adults and children alike will love the cosy accommodation with wood burner and fully-equipped kitchen, selection of nostalgic DVDs, luxurious ensuite and welcoming lounge. Outside, a private hot tub and firepit is the perfect spot to indulge in that extra hour of sunlight.

Keeper’s Cabin is available from the 7th - 9th April and the 16th - 18th and then again from the 22nd April. Book here.

DENVER REST & TAWNY HUT

Our two beautiful side-by-side huts, Denver & Tawny are just emerging from a long winter rest. Refreshed and ready to welcome you to the woods, each is equipped with comfortable accommodation and everything you need for a restful glamping getaway. A simple outdoor kitchen and a shared picnic area makes them ideal for a family with older children who don’t want to share cabins, those who prefer their own bed or couples who fancy sharing the luxurious al fresco experience.

Denver & Tawny are available from the 4th April. Book here.

Happy Valley Norfolk is a wonderful spot for enjoying what this part of beautiful Norfolk has to offer over the Easter holidays. Whether you want a quiet getaway enriched with walks and cycle routes or an action-packed few days of family adventure, there’s something for everyone nearby.

ON OUR DOORSTEP

• You don’t have to go far to enjoy the benefits of spring at Happy Valley Norfolk. A springtime picnic can be enjoyed in one of many beautiful spots across the valley - Willow Island is a short romantic walk away from the cabins and is a wonderful spot for some homemade treats.

• Wildlife lovers will adore the arrival of spring at Happy Valley, where you can spot deer, birds of prey, bats, hares and a huge variety of bird species from your doorstep.

• The nearby Norfolk coast is a wonderful place to explore. Get some fresh sea air, welcome the new season and blow away the cobwebs of winter on one of the many beautiful coastal walks on offer.

• Sandringham Estate has a creative garden workshop for children as well as family forest school sessions, mini golf, family archery and of course its famous castle-themed adventure playground.

• The Old Store for award winning Bread and the most delicious Brunch just down the road in Snettisham which also boast the beautiful RSPB Nature Reserve.

• Just down the road you’ll find Houghton Hall - Currently showcasing a Stephen Cox exhibition.

• Snettisham Park Farm is great for an Easter day out where you can watch lambs being born and feed the chickens and just 15 minutes from Happy Valley

• Norfolk Lavendar -World famous Lavender Gardens and Oil Distillery, National Lavender Collection and Herb Garden. Norfolk Lavender is England's premier lavender farm, renowned worldwide and has nearly 100 acres of lavender under cultivation. Visit their shop and famous farm shop or just sit and enjoy the aromas whilst having some cake in the cafe. Farmer Freds indoor play adjoins Norfolk Lavender and is a great activity if the weather isn’t on side.

• Holkham Hall is running a beautiful Easter Garden, where little bunnies can run free whilst meeting a few resident animals, sowing some seeds and enjoying a fun storytelling experience.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Happy Valley Norfolk!

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.

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.

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?!)

Why choose Happy Valley Norfolk for your January getaway?

The warm summer months are known for being the busiest time of the year for UK staycations and lots of individuals, couples and families alike enjoy exploring different parts of the country when the sun is shining. However, the winter months are also a great time to book a getaway, especially one in Norfolk. 

Once you’ve taken down your Christmas decorations and the festivities have come to an end, you should think about booking your next getaway. There are so many benefits to spending a short break away in January to kick off 2025. 

Below we have listed some of the main reasons why you should book a getaway in Norfolk this January. 

Beat the January blues

January is known for being one of the most uninteresting months of the year and once the festive season is over, lots of people feel quite lethargic. Going on holiday is one of the best ways to beat the January blues and a staycation in the Norfolk countryside can lift your spirits and recharge your soul. A weekend away surrounded by nature will give you some time to reflect on the festive period and set some goals or resolutions for the new year, providing all the inspiration you need to kick-start 2025. 

Toad Hall

Sleeps 4 + 2 children

Luxury Lodge - underfloor air source heating, kitchen, king size accommodation, ensuite, treetop balcony, outdoor dining on the sunset decking - Television - Private Wifi - Part disable Friendly/Pram Friendly

Private Electric Hot-Tub

European Leader Grant contributed to some of the building materials for this lodge.

Relax and recharge after the festive period

It’s fair to say that December is an intense month, the majority of people will be very busy at work and also have several social events to attend, giving them no time to relax. If you have been entertaining family and friends over the festive period too, you will likely need a break and booking a January getaway is a great way to recharge your batteries. Spending some time walking through areas of outstanding natural beauty and reading a book by the log burner in our Woodpecker or Keepers Cabin will help you to de-stress so you can tackle whatever the new year brings. 

Keeper’s Cabin

Sleeps 2 + 2 + 1

Hand crafted log cabin in the woods. King Size beds, fully functional Kitchen, indoor dining, log burner, heating, en-suite. Dvd Player. Wrap around veranda, outdoor seating and fire pit. Private Hot-Tub.

Some 4G coverage outside

Enjoy the peace and quiet

January is in the off-peak season in the travel industry and therefore, popular holiday destinations will be much quieter. It will be easier to book tickets for tourist attractions and tables at restaurants at this time of the year, and you won’t have to contend with lots of other holidaymakers. When you book a stay at Happy Valley Norfolk we provide various recommendations of areas to visit and places to dine that we have tried and tested. You can embrace the peace and quiet of the countryside, and enjoy the tranquillity of your surroundings without bumping into crowds of people. 

King Nutkin

Sleeps 2 - Real King Size Bed

Cosy tree cabin

Kitchenette, King bed & wood burner. Indoor and outdoor dining options. Fire Pit. Private, heated, toilet/shower a short walk away

Some 4G coverage.

Explore new parts of the UK 

Lots of people have a holiday bucket list and booking a January getaway provides you with the opportunity to tick a location off your list. Going on holiday at a quieter time of the year will enable you to explore places you would usually avoid because they’re very busy or expensive in the warmer months. This time of the year is perfect to travel to new places in the UK and stay in areas you wouldn’t usually be able to visit. So why Norfolk? Norfolk is a diverse county with fantastic unspoilt coast and countryside, with great sights, visitor attractions and things to do. There’s also always plenty of events going on. With so much to do it’s hard to narrow down the long list of reasons to visit, so come and see for yourself! 

Sensational Spring Weddings

If you’re contemplating an outdoor Spring Wedding and looking for some inspiration then you’ve come to the right place.

Not only did Morgan & Dale choose a totally unique part of the forest for their ceremony. They used all of Natures backdrops to create one of the most Romantic Spring Weddings we’ve seen at Happy Valley Norfolk this year so far.

All captured so beautifully by CeeCee Photography.

Catering - The Copper Cup, Dick Ropa Garden Games & Band - MessiJoes

It’s all in the detail and Morgan had thought of them all. The crazy golf was enjoyed by all ages throughout the day.

An idyllic woodland ceremony at the back of the woods surrounded by their loved ones.

Crazy golf from Dick Ropa events went down a storm, as did the table tennis

The perfect outdoor wedding details which make a difference

Morgan had thought of every little detail. Simple yet so effective.

4 Benefits Nature Has On Children & Their Development

Most parents would likely agree that they want their kids to be well-rounded and compassionate people, as they grow into their own. Children’s physical health, as well as their emotional and intellectual health, can be improved by encouraging them to spend more time outside amongst nature. A new environment, unfamiliar sights, sounds and a sense of adventure, all help to open a child's spirit and mind.

1) Confidence Building

Spending time in the outdoors can build their confidence. There are fewer limits than most types of indoor play and they can choose how they interact with the world around them. This gives them practice in managing their own actions and encourages creativity and imagination. In turn, this will also give them a boost of confidence when interacting with other children.

2) Appreciation Towards Our Environment

As they develop a connection to nature, they will become more conscious of the need to protect our planet.  Even at home, you may start this by encouraging them to garden, etc. Teach kids how to take care of plants while also discussing the importance of nature to human life and the necessity to protect the environment. An excellent habit that they will keep throughout their life is teaching them how to safeguard our planet while they are small.

3) Improved Overall Health

Everyone benefits from exposure to sunlight and fresh air, which has soothing effects as well as immune system-boosting effects. By giving them enjoyable activities like cycling, swimming in the sea, and woodland walks, you can stimulate your child's imagination. Fun activities will encourage them to want to be outdoors more and explore the world around them, building their muscles and mindset as they go.

4) Memorable Days Out

The back garden is a great place to start although taking them on trips can be more memorable and expand your child’s mind even further. This could also be a great opportunity for them to meet other children and help build their social skills. Norfolk is full of free things to do, with its abundance of coastline to explore, tons of woodland and fantastic nature reserves. These make for great days out for the full family to enjoy, bond with each other and also as adults, bring out our very own inner child.

Glamping at Happy Valley provides your child and your family with an array of options to enjoy a taste of outdoor living, from our gorgeous bell tents to our luxury cabins that include hot tubs to relax in after a day of adventures. All of our cabins and bell tents also come with fire pit barbeques, so you can even show your kids how to cook tasty treats over the fire. While you stay, there are so many great places to visit, only a short drive from us. Sandringham Estate, Norfolk’s coastline and BeWILDerwood which is a huge, award-winning forest of family fun and outdoor adventure, are all favourites which our guests have loved to visit.

We have limited availability this summer, so to book your stay, head over to the “Glamping” tab.

Autumn will also be upon us soon and our retreat is as equally wonderful at this time of year too and a great time for adults to escape after social season and the school holidays. If you are interested in staying with us later this year, pop to the homepage and enter your email address, so we can send you our availability when it opens. Alternatively, if there is a specific date you’d like to book, send us an email over to glamping@happyvalleynorfolk.com

A new environment, unfamiliar sights, sounds and a sense of adventure, all help to open a child's spirit and mind.

Build great memories with them on fun nature based days out, like BeWILDerwood.

Let them explore and bond with nature at Happy Valley Norfolk. With our range of bell tents and cabins, there is something for everyone.

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.

5 Ways To Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude is so important for the soul, for an abundance of reasons. It improves our mental health, helps us heal and assists us in building a positive personality.

Living your life with gratitude helps you notice the little wins—waking up to find you have more time sleep before your alarm goes off, receiving an unexpected compliment or those trainers you’ve swooned over going on sale. Each of these small moments strings together to create a web of well-being that, over time, strengthens your ability to notice the good in life.

Here are our top five ways to practice gratitude;

Keep a gratitude journal beside your bed.

Before you go to bed each night, think of even the smallest wins of the day; write it down. In time, the more you write, the more you’ll start to notice things that you are grateful for. When the pages start filling, reading them back will fill you with gratitude. Spending just 15 minutes before bed noting down a few grateful sentiments, can also support you to have a much better nights shuteye.

Watch inspiring videos that will remind you of the good in the world.

We are what we surround ourselves with. By watching inspiring content online, the internet puts more inspirational content in front of you. Search hashtags on social media such as #gratitude to see what other people are grateful for to help with ideas if you’re stuck.

Surround yourself with people who make you feel good.

Surrounding ourselves with people who we love and who make us feel good, has a shared effect because positivity and happiness are contagious. So not only does it make you feel on top of the world, but you are also boosting the moods of those around you. “Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you.” – Eileen Caddy

Say thank you for the little things people do for you, things you normally take for granted.

Sometimes we forget to be appreciative of the small things others do for us. Even things as small as someone making us a cup of tea, holding the door, letting us out in traffic - be thankful for the small gestures. Take a moment to not only thank them but think of how they just made your day that little bit easier.

Make a gratitude collage, cut out pictures of all the things that you are grateful for.

Creating collages is a great way to practice gratitude. Looking over photographs that make you smile as you stick them down, will flood you with great memories and will influence you to make more. Vision or dream boards are also fantastic for those who want to manifest a sounder lifestyle. These boards are assembled similarly to gratitude collages, you just need to use pictures and word clippings of things you would love in your life. The more you envision or see your dreams coming true, the more you’ll gravitate towards it naturally. Gratefulness is a footing for manifesting.

“Buddhist monks begin each day with a chant of gratitude for the blessings of their life.”

We are grateful every day for our wonderful guests that truly make Happy Valley Norfolk

For more spiritual wellbeing reading, check out our last blog on Forest Bathing

The mindset of gratitude is a regular habit to express thankfulness for all various parts of life, no matter how small. If you focus on what you have, you'll always have more.

Head over to our Instagram account’s @happyvalleynorfolk and @norfolkglamping for daily gratitude posts and stories, for the rest of this week.

What Is Forest Bathing & Why It Can Help Improve Your Life

Crystals can play a big part in meditation, it can deepen your meditation process and raise your consciousness & awareness.

'Forest Bathing' is an English translation of the Japanese phrase shinrin-yoku, however the name may fool you, you won't need a take a dip in your bathtub to have a go. Developed in Japan, 'Shinrin' means forest and 'Yoku' stands for bathing. This simple practice of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, immersing yourself in nature in a mindful way, using your senses to acquire a whole range of benefits for not just your physical but your mental and emotional health.

You can forest-bathe anywhere on the planet, wherever there are trees. You can sit, stand or walk - just disconnect from daily life and connect to nature. Clear your mind and observe your surroundings.

Toad Hall at Happy Valley Norfolk

Take long breaths deep into the abdomen. Extending the exhalation of air to twice the length of the inhalation sends a message to the body that it can relax. Look at the colour palette Mother Nature has created, listen to the sound of the breeze and the song of the wilderness, breath in the earthy scents. Use all your senses to fully immerse yourself in the experience. You can even take your shoes and socks off and walk barefoot as it helps with feeling grounded and present in the moment by connecting with the natural world.

We have had many guests in the past that have enjoyed our woodland retreat for forest bathing and meditation. To book your relaxing glamping experience, head over to the glamping section of our website.

A Wonderful Review For Toad Hall From Our Christmas Guests.

“We spent Christmas at Toad Hall and Oh my Goodness, what a treat. As soon as we walked in and saw it all dressed Christmassy we said it has the wow factor. That gable is absolutely stunning. Surrounded by fields and trees and only the sound of the owls at night. It was perfect. Toad Hall has everything you could need and everything is finished to a high spec. The beds are sooo comfy, especially the downstairs king. You can really tell the quality of the bedding and mattress - superb! The shower was amazing and it was so nice even having a view from the bathroom window while you washed in the morning. The hot tub is probably the best I’ve ever used. It was glorious. So relaxing. Katy was always on hand if we needed her, but luckily we didn’t have any problems or need to. As it was Christmas we were probably super lazy and just enjoyed being in the treehouse so we didn’t get to explore much, but it looks like there would be plenty to do and see locally.”

To book glamping getaway, head over to the glamping section on our website.

Holiday at Happy Valley

After what feels like a year of emotional and psychological Winter, we tiptoe to the edge of a new, more hopeful season.  The Wildflower Meadow across from Toad Hall reminds us that though we have no control over the harsh elements of life, still we rise and still we must grow. With a boundless energy and free spirit, we roam into Nature but this time, not to seek solace but to embrace the trees as old friends and cautiously celebrate our impending freedom.

Our souls are as wild as the birds overhead, and our imagination soars with all the places we can go, the people we can visit, the friends we can hold. As we get ready to discard our chilly cloak of sadness and envelop the warmth from the Sun, let’s look forward to making plans and sticking to them. Let’s make time for those we haven’t seen for so long. Let’s have a hungry heart for adventure.

Happy Valley has cabins, bell tents, lodges, and treehouses to connect you to the outside this season. As we step, or skip, into Spring, we welcome you to join us and celebrate your newfound freedom. From the beach, the rolling hills to the stretches of woodland, the birds ring out the sound of the new season and we are ready to welcome you to all that is beautiful about Norfolk. Escape the everyday at home. At Happy Valley we are good to go and have social distancing sorted. Gather your loves ones and take them on a holiday at home as soon as restrictions allow.

For more information about our cabins, please contact glamping@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk

With love,

The Little Team at Happy Valley