An unblemished gem

With nothing really planned for our impromptu trip to the Norfolk Broads, we had a leisurely start to the day. After a decision was finally made, we turned left, cycled about 200m and then realised we would actually have to make a concrete plan so we didn’t get hopelessly lost. It is not possible, as we had thought, to cycle along the river all the way to the sea. Naïve I know but we are in new territory here.

Winterton-on-Sea became our destination of choice for no reason other than it’s coastal location. However, having been, we will definitely be back. With the blue sky dotted with wispy clouds, we embarked upon our 10 mile (no problem – we thought) relatively flat cycle to the coast. Several villages in, our route took us down a “national speed limit” grass covered road that was more like a grassy edge of a farmer’s field than any road we had come across. Not a route for the motorhome.

Triumphantly, we completed our 10 mile ride, arriving at the coast in time for lunch. The beach, untainted, was fairly empty despite the glorious weather. The same could not be said for Dunes Café which had a queue coming out of the door and many satisfied customers tucking into lunch. Soon we joined them and, after 10 minutes, our generously portioned lunches were served. While there were just a few specials to choose from, the café did sandwiches, cakes and scones aplenty and they catered well for those with dietary requirements e.g. vegetarians, gluten free. Dunes Café is dog friendly and, while they cannot go inside the café, there are many huts and tables available outside to provide an inclusive dining experience.

Well sated, our 10 mile cycle back was not so grumble free. Sore legs, bottoms and wrists distracted us from the wonderful scenery and picturesque farm houses. Possibly our drive to increase our physical activity shouldn’t have started with a 20 mile bike ride! We attempted to stop for a well earned beverage at BridgeStones in Potter Heigham (but were well and truly ignored by staff) so instead headed to The Kings Arms in Ludham. 1990s music choices, friendly staff and child/dog friendly gardens area made our cider even more rewarding! We imagine The Kings Arms is fairly lively of an evening – we will have to come back to experience it.

All in all an enjoyable day and we definitely achieved something. We can’t remember the last time we were slightly sunburnt with aches in places we didn’t know we had. Norfolk – we will be back.