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.

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.

"The views are out of this world" A fantastic review for Toad Hall

Toad Hall in all it’s woodland glory

A great cabin for not only staycations and getaways, but is widely loved as our wedding suite.

We are so grateful for this review that came in from our recent guests Carmen & Ben.

“Where do i start! What an amazing place! My fiancé and I just got home from a well needed couple of days away for some pure relaxation and this is the place! If you are pondering on whether to book, ponder no more! Do it! You won’t regret it! beautiful surroundings, definitely recommend the 200 acre wood trail, such a beautiful walk and if you keep going it takes you to a lovely little village. Toad Hall was immaculate, beds and pillows sooo comfy we had the best nights sleep. The views are out of this world, everywhere you look when inside the lodge you are greeted with a stunning view, even in the shower! If you are looking for silence, peace and tranquility this is the place. Nothing beats drinking your morning coffee whilst gazing out of a window with endless trees and views, We are already looking online to book for summer but unfortunately it’s all booked up. The communication was five star with Katy, prompt replies and we even had a box of choccies left on arrival. Thankyou :) A lovely little perk of this stay, if you are unorganised like me, was the kitchen amenities, oil, herbs and spices and everything you would need to cook with, also a lovely array of books and games, perfect for a cozy night in whilst watching the sunset through the main window. It really was a breath taking experience. I cannot fault toad hall in any way I only wish we could book again now for the summer! :( The hot tub was all up to temperature and ready to go as soon as we arrived, was very easy to use and hot tubbing surrounded by trees was a whole new experience for us! It was wonderful! We used it so many times. We went in February 2022 and the temperature in the lodge was so lovely and warm and comfortable. Thank you Katy for making it such a memorable stay Carmen and Ben X”

To book your stay at Happy Valley, head over to the glamping tab.

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.

The Wedding Wolves

There’s no better time to grab your attention than when we’re on an enforced, three week lock-down and in need of distraction so we felt it was high time to tell you a story:

A grandfather sat his grandson down and decided to impart some words of wisdom.

“A fight is going on inside of me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One wolf represents darkness - he is regret, anger, sorrow, selfishness and self-pity and everything negative in the world.”

The grandfather looked at his captivated grandson, took a breath and continued, “The other wolf represents the light - he is peace, hope, understanding, compassion and faith and everything positive in the world. We all have the same two wolves fighting within us.”

The grandson, a fan of everything to do with war and battles turns to his grandfather and says, “which wolf will win?”.

The wise, old man simply replied, “The one you feed.”

What do wolves have to do with weddings?

During this time of uncertainty, there are understandably a lot of emotions running high and these are valid and necessary feelings for us all to be having.

Each of us is fighting an internal battle between wanting to help our neighbours, friends, family and local businesses and at the same time worrying about what it might mean for our own finances, health or future happiness. We all want to be kind and understanding but we also all have fear and frustration.

Is our advice to feed the positive wolf and let the negative wolf starve? No, it would be an impossibility. They’re both there and they both have to eat. What we can do, is acknowledge that whilst we are having to face great disappointments and insecurity, we can also show the capacity for compassion and forbearance. The beauty of humanity is often found in the grey areas where despite the doubt and fear, we surprise ourselves with our own strength and resilience.

So, if each wolf is being fed at a time where food is being rationed and supermarkets are in short supply, who gets what?

That part is down to us but how we respond and which wolf we feed the most will define how we are viewed when this chaos is over. Our time in the grey area is now and our actions will show which wolf ate all the metaphorical pies.

Even though you’re justifiably worried about your future wedding plans, there are still ways we can lift each other up. Here at Happy Valley, we invite you to look at the following acts of kindness to show your wedding suppliers some support:

• If you’re pleased with the service you’ve received during this difficult time, consider leaving a positive review on their website. If you’re not, perhaps take into account unprecedented stress?

• Like, comment and share posts. Why not shine a light on some suppliers in need of encouragement?

• Make future reservations. For most suppliers, it’s not just the next few months that are of concern but their whole calendar year - show them some light at the end of the tunnel.

At Happy Valley, we hope you feel our negative wolves have been put on a strict diet of kale and lentils (not least because stress represses the immune system and we need to stay healthy right now!) and our positive wolves have been given the full, fine-dining experience.

We would like to thank our 2020 couples for their thoughtfulness and appreciation and are excited to give you the happy ending you all so deserve.

With love,

Katy, Kirsty and the team at Happy Valley xx

hello@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk

01485 600 719

Instagram - @HappyValleyNorfolk

Facebook - Happy Valley Norfolk

Memories of happier times. A woodland wedding photoshoot at Happy Valley.

Give the Gift of Glamping

If you’re starting to think about Christmas gifts.. look no further than a Happy Valley gift voucher. The thoughtful gift of rest in nature for your loved ones this year. What would say Happy Christmas more than treating someone to a well deserved break at Happy Valley?

The Woodland View from King Nutkin

Cosying up Fireside in King Nutkin

The Woodpeckers spacious kitchen and family dining area

We have a marvellous mix of characterful cabins to stay in this Christmas and into the New year. Ranging from romantic Shepherds huts for 2 people to lodges with King Sized accommodation for all the family. We’re nestled away in the Norfolk countryside with the cosiest handmade cabins, locally sourced produce on your doorstep, a great selection of restaurants and nature as your host. We’ve tried and tasted The Dabbling Duck which we’d highly recommend, just a short drive away for a hearty feed and drinks. The Ffolkes Arms is ideal for families, with an extensive menu and superb outdoor play area for children.

Romantic Shepherds Huts Denver Rest & Tawny

Perfect snuggle option for couples

Glamping at Happy Valley Norfolk is the gift experience that will treat your special someone to an immersive break in nature, whilst relaxing in accommodation that appeals to those looking to experience a more comfort-orientated break. Toad Hall our luxurious Tree House comes with underfloor heating to ensure maximum snuggle value and it’s own private hot tub overlooking rolling Norfolk fields.

With gift vouchers starting from as little as £100 up to £500 - get ahead of the Christmas rush and secure yours to ensure peace of mind. Gift vouchers are valid for 12 months following purchase date allowing plenty of opportunity for the Glamping gift to be enjoyed.

Testimonials from Happy Valley Glampers

Laura Sables

‘Stayed here for 3 nights and loved it. Comfort whilst camping, this is glamping done right. Whilst reading a bedtime story with my 3 yr old about owls we actually had a couple of owls calling back and forth. Was magical. Also close to lots of great family friendly days out. Thank you for the memories’

Claire Saunders

‘This place is just beautiful and really peacful with just the birds in the trees and cows in the field.
Katy and Scott were really welcoming and on hand if we needed them. Offering advice on the best walks, cycle routes and local pubs.
King nutkin has everything we wanted for a weekend away. It offers warmth from the cold with it's own wood burner, a handy kitchenette, a cozy corner with a big comfy bed, its own toilet and shower room and a bbq with a fire pit just outside. If you love the outdoors and fancy a cheeky little get away I cant recommend this place enough!’

Our family run team will ensure your gift is gratefully received. Please get in touch today!

Telephone: 01485 600719

Email: hello@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk

Instagram: @happyvalleynorfolk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorfolkWeddingVenue/

Glamping Getaways in Norfolk this Winter

Every season is Glamping season at Happy Valley with Winter being the snuggest of all.  We welcome guests to our Norfolk Wildlife Trust site all year round, with Winter by the wood burners proving ever popular.  We’re nestled away in the Norfolk countryside with an eclectic mix of the cosiest cabins, locally sourced produce nearby, plentiful public houses and nature as your landscape.

We’re offering a Winter Woodland Exclusive Hire Deal for Christmas 2019. Spend a magical Christmas in the wilderness with your nearest and dearest. Enjoying the peaceful luxury of the entire Norfolk Wildlife Trust Site to yourselves. Wrapping up warm in cosy layers taking walks through the woodland and celebrating all things festive fireside. Please call to take advantage of this Christmas Offer on 01485 600719.

Wintry Sunsets at Happy Valley Norfolk

Picture cool crisp leaves crunching under foot as they compost back to the Earth.  Clear sunny skies with darker days leaving way to the starriest nights.  Winter is an enchanting time in our Woodland cabins under the blanket of our Forest canopy.

Glamping at Happy Valley allows you to immerse yourself in accommodation and facilities that appeal to those looking to experience a more luxurious and comfort-orientated break that you simply cannot get with traditional camping. We offer an eclectic mix of naturally charming cabins, from romantic Shepherds huts to larger cabins with full kitchen facilities, wood burners and every home comfort you could need.  Toad Hall our sumptuous Tree House comes with underfloor heating to ensure maximum snuggle value and it’s own sunken hot tub overlooking the breath-taking views.

Did you know you can hire the whole site for your specials events? Weddings, Family get togethers, birthday parties, team building, the list goes on.

With glamping, it’s all about gaining enjoyment from a pure, natural and relaxing experience that other holidays just can’t provide!  Glamping is all about allowing yourself to get in touch with nature but without sacrificing that comfort and lack of facilities. Imagine yourself here in our Wood Fired Hot tub on a misty morning…

The balcony view from King Nutkin

Just consider such appeals as the locally sourced produce, nature, wildlife, forest bathing and ever-lasting memories that only glamping breaks can give you. There’s never been a better time to book your very own glamping experience!

Why we love glamping here in the Winter? It's romantic and offers an undeniable break from the norm. You can't beat the wonderful sense of escapism experienced when you wake up cosy and warm in a proper bed, rekindle the wood-burner and peep out of a frosty window to reveal a wintery wonderland beyond. Getting out in the countryside and breathing in the fresh, cool winter air is the perfect way to escape day to day life and live adventurously. Going glamping in winter is a gateway into a whole new world of holiday experiences.

We’re now taking bookings for Winter 2019.  Please contact one of our Glamping team to secure your cosy stay in one of our Woodland cabins.

E: hello@happyvalleynorfolk.co.uk

T: 01485 600719

Instagram:@happyvalleynorfolk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorfolkWeddingVenue/

Misty Morning Meadowlands