fine & country norfolk lifestyle magazine

John Lewis competition

Win a breakat the Crown Inn, Stoke by Nayland

Norfolk &

North Suffolk Lifestyles

LifestylesNor

folk

& N

orth

Suf

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Park Lane, Mayfair is instantly recognised as one of the most important ‘property’ locations throughout the world

Our offi ces cover more than just NorfolkNorwich7 Bank Plain Norwich NR2 4SFTelephone 01603 221888

Diss9 Mavery HouseVictoria Road Diss IP22 4EXTelephone 01379 646181

John DaveyEquestrian Expert

Torquil MacleodCountry Home Expert

Cameron BlackDirector

King’s Lynn27-28 Tuesday Market PlaceKing’s LynnNorfolk PE30 1JJ Telephone 01553 769100

Park Lane119-121 Park LaneMayfairLondon W1K 7AGTelephone 020 7079 1515

DISSIP22 4EX

KING’S LYNNPE30 1JJ

NORWICHNR2 4TP

PARK LANEW1

North Walsham

Southwold

Halesworth

Bungay

CromerHolt

Fakenham

East Dereham

Thetford

Great Yarmouth

Lowestoft

Downham Market

Attleborough

Helen PlumsteadLettings Manager

Mel BrittonSales Director

Burnham deepdale

Recently we have seen a number of monetary announcements with each announcement becoming more progressively dramatic as the true state of the country’s fi nances has become clearer.

Such announcements are inevitably going to have an impact on the property market with sellers needing to take careful advice from their agent about the optimum price at which to market their home, in order to ensure a successful sale. But something which many sellers seem to forget – not to mention members of the media – is that more challenging times can actually present an excellent environment for sales to take place.

Firstly, properties coming onto the market are often doing so because sellers have a genuine need rather than simply a wish to sell. Motivated sellers tend to price their properties keenly, meaning that there will be some very real bargains to be had out there.

Secondly, as most sellers are also themselves buyers moving up the property ladder, the gap between their current home and the property to which they aspire starts to shrink. This ‘concertina’ effect means that houses which had previously been out of reach suddenly become viable buying opportunities.

Cameron Black, Fine & Country

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY MARKETING

UK

Fine & Country

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY MARKETING

UK

Fine & Country

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FINE CITY & COUNTRY HOMES • UNIQUE PROPERTIES • BARN CONVERSIONS • PERIOD • COTTAGES • EQUESTRIAN • COASTAL & RIVERSIDE02

HILL HOUSE, WIMBOTSHAM ‘Stand and Deliver’A beautifully restored Georgian village house with a cellar and an annexe.

Three receptions one with feature Inglenook fi replace, fi ve bedrooms one with en suite cloakroom, two bathrooms; second fl oor landing/study area, Harvey Jones kitchen with granite and beech work surfaces with separate utility room. Self contained annexe with kitchenette and wet room, ample parking; triple bay cart lodge, charming partly walled gardens. The accommodation extends to 3294sq.ft

Guide Price: £550,000 Contact North and West Norfolk Offi ce 01553 769100

FINE CITY & COUNTRY HOMES • UNIQUE PROPERTIES • BARN CONVERSIONS • PERIOD • COTTAGES • EQUESTRIAN • COASTAL & RIVERSIDE 03

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CORNER HOUSE, DOCKING ‘A Little Corner of Heaven’An individual detached family house on a select development of four properties on the outskirts of Docking.

Two wide reception halls with double height ceilings. Two receptions rooms, one including an open brick fi replace, breakfast kitchen with separate utility room; conservatory; galleried landing. Four bedrooms and three bath/shower rooms. Ample parking and double garage, landscaped gardens, the accommodation extends to 1835 sq.f.t.


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LIME KILN BARN, HEYDON ‘Taking Centre Court’A spacious detached converted barn situated close to the Georgian market town of Holt.Five reception rooms including a fi rst fl oor drawing room, a wonderful kitchen / breakfast area, fi ve bedrooms including three en-suites. Character found throughout with fl agstones, exposed bricks and timbers, galleried landing. Enclosed front and rear courtyards with cart bay garaging for 6 cars. The total grounds extends to 1.206 acres. The accommodation extends to approximately 5,100sq.ft

Guide Price: £695,000 Contact Norwich Offi ce 01603 221888

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THATCH COTTAGE, EDINGTHORPE ‘At Home With The Past’A very pretty semi-detached grade II listed thatched cottage standing in a wonderful rural setting to the outskirts of Edingthorpe.Five bedrooms; three bath / shower rooms, two receptions including a heavily beamed sitting room, breakfast kitchen with Aga; separate utility. Original character found throughout including exposed beams, fi replaces, brick tiles, timber fl oors and exposed brick. Believed to be over 500 years old originally forming part of the Earl of Leicester’s estate and recently re-thatched. Off street parking; pretty cottage gardens with a range of small outbuildings. The accommodation extends to 1,482sq.ft.

£315,000 Contact Norwich Offi ce 01603 221888

THATCH COTTAGE ,TRUNCH ‘Dreamweaver’A stunning grade II listed thatched cottage standing centrally within the village of Trunch.

Beautiful original character found throughout including exposed brick, fl int and beams, thatched elevations, timber fl oorboards and fi replace, two bedrooms; two bathrooms,two receptions; spacious breakfast kitchen, single garage. South facing landscaped garden, terraced rear garden with views of the village church. The accommodation extends to 1,500sq.ft.


5 MANOR FARM BARNS, LITTLE MELTON ‘Five-Star Style’An exquisitely converted barn, in its own corner of a private community of fi ve, fi nished to a superior specifi cation, in the highly desirable village location of Little Melton.Four / fi ve spacious bedrooms; three tasteful en-suite bath/shower rooms and a further family bathroom. Three receptions, including a 35ft open plan lounge with bespoke fi replace with chimney and fl oor to ceiling south facing windows looking out onto private gardens. Stunning handmade, solid oak kitchen and breakfast area with separate utility.Generous post and rail gardens; double garage. The accommodation extends to 3,500 sq.ft.


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THE FINEST IN CITY LIVING Fine & Country’s office in the centre of Norwich offers unrivalled

knowledge of the City’s property market and has access to the largest network of premium home sellers in the UK.

www.fi neandcountry.com

The City Collection

The City CollectionOur Norwich Office is right in the heart of the City and we are fortunate in

having buyers from all parts of the World. We take full advantage of this by

marketing locally, nationally and internationally to penetrate all sectors of the

market place.

The fact that we have become a large and successful international brand does

not mean to say we have forgotten about the local market, which is hugely

important to us. We also support local quality publications and work closely

with a number of local businesses.

Each area of the City has its own special feeling and Fine & Country can assist

you in finding your favourite City “village”.

For further help in selling your property or advice on which areaof the City may suit you best, please contact us on 01603 221888or visit us at 7 Bank Plain, Norwich NR2 4SF.

PAPER MILL YARD, NORWICH ‘Living the High Life’A magnifi cent penthouse apartment on the Paper Mill Yard development in the city of Norwich.

Stylish modern open plan living accommodation with kitchen/sitting and dining area. Luxurious bathroom; double bedroom. First fl oor circular glazed room providing second sitting room or bedroom with 360 degree views. Magnifi cent roof garden with various seating areas and stunning views across the city of Norwich.The apartment has a secure car park beneath the block. The accommodation extends to 902sq.ft.



fi neandcountry.com

fi neandcountry.com


LEICESTER HOUSE, NORWICH ‘On Top of the World’An impressive fourth fl oor penthouse apartment with stunning views over the city.

The property is situated in the sought after former Norfolk and Norwich Hospital grounds within walking distance of the city centre. Three Bedrooms; two Bathrooms, two Receptions with separate kitchen, wonderful roof terraces / balconies. Communal gardens and residents parking; no onward chain. The accommodation extends to 1,800sq.ft


THORPE ROAD, NORWICH ‘The Right Side Of The Track’A spacious semi – detached victorian family residence conveniently situated for Norwich city centre

Accommodation set over three levels. Five bedrooms; two bathrooms. Two Receptions; spacious breakfast kitchen with separate utility. Original character found throughout with bay windows, fi replaces, picture rails and timber fl oors. The accommodation extends to 2,151sq.ft



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UNTHANK ROAD, NORWICH ‘Victorian Charm’

A wonderful semi-detached victorian family residence situated on Unthank Road within the Golden Triangle.Five bedrooms including dressing room off the master bedroom. Two bathrooms; three receptions. Breakfast kitchen; conservatory, original character found throughout with sash windows, fi replaces and timber fl oors. Off street parking available for several vehicles. The accommodation extends to 2,500sq.ft.


As the spring deliveries start arriving with Maxmara and its divine diffusion lines, we’ll have dresses, raincoats and little knits galore. Their timeless Italian elegance fi ts all and they never go out of fashion, parfait! For the more daring there’s nothing like Save the Queen and Moschino to make a girl feel gorgeous. In zingy colours with daring prints, you can make a statement every day. Marc Cain - as usual - will light up the season with a structured yet casual collection in shades of grey, cream, and khaki with splashes of red and turquoise. This genius label somehow suits everyone and glides effortlessly from day into evening wear… just add some bijoux and fab heels.

Talking of footwear our delicious Melissa and Ash shoes will certainly add a spring to your step with the Vivienne Westwood, now iconic, heart high heel coming in an oh-so-chic ivory.

The Francois Bouttier Studio can be found at 5 Shire Hall Plain, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6BG.

O

François’ Spring Watch

nce this cold weather is over and you’ve relinquished the endless jumpers,

scarves and coats, take a deep breath and think about a sartorial de-clutter. It’s such a good feeling to pack away the excess and concentrate on a few key pieces or themes.

Ladies, let’s make 2011 a stylish one!


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GRACE DIEU, NORTH LOPHAM ‘A Thatch Made In Heaven’A pretty thatched cottage set in charming gardens and grounds of nearly 0.5 acres down a quiet lane in the village of North Lopham.Ground fl oor double bedroom and bathroom; two further bedrooms, one with en suite bathroom. Two receptions both with fi replaces and exposed beams and studs,south facing conservatory with farm land views; breakfast kitchen, side hall with sauna, shower and WC, charming cottage gardens and double carport with studio / home offi ce. The accommodation extends to 1,849sq.ft.

Guide Price: £375,000 Contact Diss Offi ce 01379 646181

THE ANCHORAGE, SHERINGHAM ‘Anchor’s Away!’A beautifully modernised and extended Victorian home commanding far reaching sea views.

Four bedrooms; three bath / shower rooms, three receptions ; stunning breakfast kitchen. Magnifi cent bespoke orangery. Second Floor Sitting Room. Charming landscaped walled gardens; ample parking. The accommodation extends to 2,828sq.ft



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By Caroline Culot

Boasting a superb open-plan space and two impressive staircases, this property offers rustic charm with interiors chic too. Caroline Culot, EDP property correspondent, enjoyed the luxury on show at The Great Barn, Coltishall, for sale for £725,000.

A barn conversion that’s glamorous and truly great.

As soon as you enter into the vast reception/open planned living space, two rather impressive staircases lead up to a mezzanine level. On the ground fl oor there is a superb contemporary kitchen; I suppose it’s what many of us can only dream of.

For me, I really liked the open plan style because the downstairs space is versatile yet you can, of course, divide it into designated areas. Vertical columns or pillars add to the contemporary feel and yet there’s a traditional dining hall with French doors leading out to the rear terrace and also a sitting room with a fi replace and wood burner.

Upstairs, there is a master bedroom suite which is superb, boasting a vaulted ceiling, exposed beams and brickwork. I loved the decorations in this room with its simple brass bed and pretty accessories. It also comes with an en suite bathroom with a rolled top bath and shower.

Outside, there are timber gates opening onto an ample shingle drive. There is also an easily manageable front garden, a garage and from the rear of the barn, the south facing terrace. The grounds total two thirds of an acre, but with an interior so plush, you may want to spend more time inside at this property!

Featured Properties

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Not only is there an inviting farmhouse at the end, but a listed thatched barn too. Caroline Culot, EDP Property correspondent, wasn’t sure she wanted to return after a visit to Low Farm, Ringland for sale for £950,00.

Drive down a mile-long track and find paradise...

There aren’t many properties which are approached down a track which is a mile-long, but this one is - which gives you some idea just how private its location is. Low Farm, Ringland, is surrounded by countryside and is completely hidden away, yet it is only a short drive into the city - how attractive is that?

Beautiful roses really do grow around the door of this idyllic farmhouse, tucked away from view.It offers the perfect peaceful country home - but has the potential for further development for anyone who fancies getting stuck into a project! Caroline Culot, EDP property correspondent, enjoyed a visit to Fen Farm, Barnham Broom for sale for £695,000.

A pretty farmhouse which really does have roses around the door.

The farmhouse is very inviting and offers all the features you may want in this kind of property; there’s a large brick fi replace, latch doors and some orginal timber frames. There’s a country kitchen, a sitting room, dining room and a garden room with four bedrooms upstairs. It also has an extra surprise in its ground of two acres; a converted, listed thatched barn which offers excellent accommodation and could be used either for a relative or teenager in the family or to let. The current owners have indeed let it out to fi sherman and even a jazz musician!

Outside there are some uncoverted stables and another barn so a buyer could decide to convert these, subject to planning, and create a holiday complex. The location is simply stunning and there are pretty gardens and a pond. I think it is this secluded setting which for many will be simply too gorgeous to resist.

Celebrity Chef Galton Blackiston loves his Bryan Turner Kitchen

01953 601567enquiries@bryanturnerkitchens.comwww.bryanturnerkitchens.com

Proud to support

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THE OLD PUMP HOUSE, HETHEL ‘Convert to the Country’A beautiful period residence dating back to the 1800’s which has been sympathetically extended and renovated throughout.

Six bedrooms; three bathrooms; three receptions and spacious breakfast kitchen with separate utility. Character includes exposed brick, beams and fi replaces. Double garage, potting shed/studio, store shed. Landscaped gardens extend to 0.66 acres with south west facing terrace and courtyard garden. The accommodation extends to 3,042sq.ft.


In 1959 the Gooderham family bought French’s Farm near Pulham Market. Now second generation son Stuart and his wife Kim, with their foresight and passion, have created an award winning hub of excellence.

From potatoes in a barrow to an award winning farm shop…

For delicious and tempting gourmet delights, the farm now boasts an unrivalled, prestigious butchery including free range Norfolk chicken, game, venison, lamb, beef and over 40 gourmet sausages, with master butchers on hand for expert advice.

The delicatessen holds over 60 cheeses, with pates, salamis, hams and boutique olive oils together with seasonal local produce, confectionery, local cakes & preserves and a farm-house restaurant serving the scrummiest of dishes. Enjoy a hearty all day breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea.


As a family, their motto is a quote from Oscar Wilde “after a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one’s own relatives.”

Goodies hold various events throughout the year from craft fairs to beer and cheese festivals.

Enjoy!

Visit www.goodiesfarmshop.co.uk for more information.


It came through theFrench Revolution unscathed.

It would be a pity if it cameto grief on the M25.

The storage and movement of cherished possessions is all in a day’s work.

By Appointment ToHer Majesty The Queen

Removals and Storage Contractor Abels

Certificate No. FS23942

Freephone: 0800 626769 E-Mail: [email protected]

www.abels.co.ukOVERSEASREMOVER

AdvancePayment

Guaranteed

A001


Around the world,across the city, with youevery step of the way.Home or abroad, corporate relocation or ruralretirement dream, Abels have the expertise tomake your move go as smoothly as possible. We will work closely with you throughout your move if that’s what you require, or simplylet us know what you want and we will make it happen, on time, every time, right down tothe finest details.

We work tirelessly to ensure that everythingarrives exactly as it left – from your grandfatherclock to your prized wine collection. You’ll haveone point of contact throughout, who willarrange a detailed home survey appointment todiscuss your moving requirements. We can providea personal assistant, nannies, handymen or dogwalkers for your move, as well as organising drycleaning and even filling the fridge for yourarrival, should this be the service you desire!

We make it our business to make your moveas stress-free and straightforward as possible, andour promise is to deliver:

Excellence. Abels have proudly and uniquely held the Queen’sRoyal Warrant for Removal and Storage Servicessince in 1989, and have retained this every year since.ISO 9001-2000 and FIDI-faim quality awards followingregular independent audits ensures our high standardsare upheld at all times.

Trust. We never compromise the high quality of our service,maintaining the same traditional values that foundedAbels in 1958. Our staff are courteous, meticulous andobliging, so you can trust us to take care of every detail.

Expertise.Every member of our removal team receives intensivetraining to our exacting standards, carried out in ourown purpose-built training house. We practice on ourfurniture and possessions, not yours.

Reassurance.Our front-line team are full-time employees, and havemany years experience. All are security vetted and carryidentity cards. They are proud to wear the Abels uniformand will always behave impeccably in your home.

Experience.Abels have been managing removals for over 50 years.We have developed specialist skills in moving antiquesand fine art, so your family heirlooms and valuablepieces are totally safe with us.

Quality.Our purpose-built fleet of vehicles is designed to be safeand secure – each is fully alarmed, with double-skinnedsides to protect furniture and minimise temperaturechanges, whilst air-ride suspension ensures a smoothride for your treasured possessions. Environmentallyresponsible, the Abels fleet uses Euro-5 emission standardengines, the most efficient available.

Value.Abels deliver a platinum-standard service, and we are proud of the countless testimonials from all oursatisfied clients.

Responsibility. All our packaging is designed to be both kind to theenvironment and to your belongings - we will alwaysuse acid-free paper on silverware to prevent tarnishing,using specialist cartons to fully protect your possessions.Furniture items are over-wrapped to safeguard themin transit or storage.

Efficiency.To ensure quality standards are maintained and audited,Abels are affiliated to all the major trade bodies andstandards. We are a member of Unigroup-UTS, theworld’s largest move management organisation,ensuring that quality of service can be provided fromMalta to Manila, London to Luxembourg.

Innovation.Abels have a long tradition of leading the way, beingthe first with:

Investor in People accreditation, in-trucktelecommunications, an air-ride fleet, defined qualitystandards, maid service, fully uniformed operatives,trading conditions in plain English, an award winningtraining centre, a full time quality manager, carpet fittingservice, customer care awards, no smoking policy,high-tech mobile racking, Royal Warrant status ……

With generations of expertise and an eye for detail, an Abels move will always be the right move. To find out for yourself what a stress-free move feelslike, contact:

John Watson - UK Residential Moves or

Neil Pertoldi - International Relocationson 0800 626769 or at [email protected] Fine & Country.

Reassuringly Abels.

www.abels.co.uk


fi neandcountry.com

TREVENNING BARN, REDLINGFIELD ‘At Home In The Country’An exceptional individual modern barn-style dwelling set in landscaped gardens of 0.3 acres on an exclusive development.

Finished to a very high standard including oak fl oors and oak external joinery, underloor heating and fl agstone fl ooring, four double bedrooms including a ground fl oor bedroom, three en suite shower rooms; family bathroom. Magnifi cent living room with vaulted ceiling; fi tted kitchen opening into breakfast room/snug. Set well off the road backing onto open farmland. The accommodation extends to 3,006sq.ft.


SWAN HOUSE, TOPCROFT ‘Top Flight’A beautiful Georgian family residence standing in just under 1 acre of grounds in the village of Topcroft.

Formerly the village public house it has been sympathetically extended and renovated throughout. Four bedrooms; two bathrooms, four receptions; spacious breakfast kitchen. A large range of outbuildings including double garage, triple stable block and a brick and tile summerhouse. The accommodation extends to 2,150sq.ft


John Lewis has recently introduced an exciting new product to its bedding assortment.

Devon Duvets are a high quality, 100% natural wool and soft woven cotton duvet and pillow range, that we have been selling in our stores since March 2009. The product and the manufacturer, Dick Beijen, were fi rst spotted by John Lewis on the Channel 4 documentary, ‘Monty Dons Dream Farm’ - which aired earlier this year and put Dick along with his family in the spotlight.

Their business, Devon Duvets, really took off after they appeared on the programme in which Monty Don took would-be farmers under his wing and gave them advice and support about how to develop their ideas.

In search of a higher quality of life for his family, Dick moved from his native Holland to Seale Stoke Farm in Devon with his wife Pauline and their two children.

Dick proudly states that every process involved in getting

the wool from the sheep to the stores is undertaken in Britain. Saying “we have 170 Texel sheep,” he added, “To give you an idea, one sheep usually gives us three kilos of wool of which we can use 70% for our pillows and duvets. There are around 2.4 kilos of wool in each double duvet so that comes to slightly more than one sheep per duvet.”

“We do the shearing ourselves in early summer, send the wool to be processed by our local mill, then the duvets are handcrafted in Devon by specialist seamstresses; so our duvets are truly what it says on the box, Devon Duvets.”

John Lewis stocks an assortment of Devon Duvet products prices range from £45 - £155.

For more information visit the John Lewis Norwich Linens department on the Ground fl oor or call 01603 660021.

READER COMPETITIONJOHN LEWIS DEVON DUVETS

To enter please answer the following question:

QUESTION - What breed of sheep’s wool is used in Devon Duvet products?

Please e-mail your answer tolorraine.reece@fi neandcountry.com by 31st March 2011 quoting ref “NNS4”

We are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a king-size summer weight Devon Duvet worth £120.


Book an appointment with one of our Home design advisors for expert, impartial advice on styles, colours and all the latest trends. 01603 677873 johnlewis.com/norwich

Inspiration for every home

Great Adventures begin at home

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CHURCH VIEW, BEESTON ‘Three Times Perfection’A versatile family residence standing in 5.4 acres to the outskirts of the village of Beeston.

Two homes in one,with separate self contained annexe. Six bedrooms, four/fi ve receptions, stunning breakfast bitchen and living areas. Four bathrooms plus en suite WC. Double garage with adjoining workshop. 4.9 acre paddock; formal grounds extend to 0.5 acres. The accommodation extends to 4,000sq.ft.


Earsham Hall, Bungay, Suffolk, NR35 2AN

Freephone: 0800 458 6622Telephone: 01986 893423

Fax: 01986 895656Email: [email protected]

Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm, Sunday 10.30am - 5.00pm, Bank Holidays 9.00am - 5.00pm

Earsham HallFor something that little bit different

Earsham Hall is situated in a beautiful wooded setting on theNorfolk/Suffolk border which is located just outside the historicmarket town of Bungay.

Our extensive showrooms house the largest range of pinefurniture in East Anglia, where you will also discover ourhandmade bespoke kitchens and appliances, traditionalfireplaces, surrounds and accessories, solid oak furniture,exclusive solid brass lighting, mirrors of all sizes, interestingprints and an ever changing array of giftware and decorativeaccessories.

EARSHAMHALL

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In which year was The Crown, Stoke by Nayland, Suffolk, reopened after extensive refurbishment.

Was it: (a) 1999 (b) 2003 (c) 2005

The Crown, Stoke by Nayland, Suffolkwww.crowninn.net

01206 262001

To win a double room for two, for one night, including breakfast and champagne, simply answer this question:

WIN A NIGHT FOR TWO

Please email your answers to: lorraine.reece@fi neandcountry.com quoting ref NNS4

Closing date 31st March 2011


fi neandcountry.com

CALLOW GREEN, BLOFIELD ‘Garden of Roses’A wonderful period residence situated in 1.25 acres to the outskirts of the sought after village of Blofi eld.

Four bedrooms; two bathrooms; three receptions, spacious breakfast kitchen with separate utility, original character found throughout. A range of outbuildings with planning permission for a self contained annexe, mature landscaped gardens; double cart bay garage; quiet country lane position. The accommodation extends to 2,400sq.ft.


Mention ‘Fine & Country’ when making your enquiry and receive a 5% discount on your wedding or

function at Dunston Hall.

Terms & Conditions apply.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 01508 470 444.

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FINE CITY & COUNTRY HOMES • UNUUUUUUUUUU IQUE PROPERTIES • BARN CONVERSIONS • PERIOD • COTTAGES • EQUESTRIAN • COASTAL & RIVERSIDE32

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UPPER BARN FARM, MENDHAM ‘Upper Class’A magnifi cent barn conversion with an annexe commanding stunning views over the Waveney Valley.The main accommodation consists of four bedrooms; four receptions; three bathrooms. The annexe consists of two bedrooms and two reception rooms.Fantastic equestrian facilities including a full size arena, stable block and barn. Gardens and grounds in all extend to just over 12 acres. The property enjoys a wonderful position at the end of a long drive with no near neighbours. The Accommodation extends to 3,490sq.ft.

Guide Price: £775 ,000 Contact Diss Offi ce 01379 646181

03

2 HALL FARM BARN, DEOPHAM ‘Simply The Best’A stunning open plan converted barn situated within the village of Deopham.

Four / fi ve bedrooms, stunning main reception hall, four bathrooms / shower rooms. study; games room; beautiful breakfast kitchen with granite worktops.A combination of original character and modern materials including exposed brick and fl int, french limestone, wrought iron railings, exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, travertine and granite. Single garage; additional off street parking. Formal gardens; 2 acre paddock and rear terrace. The accommodation extends to 3,250sq.ft.


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uring 2010 Fine & Country staff were given the chance to try riding for the day at Poplar Park Equestrian Centre in Suffolk. The day was a huge success and some of the more novice riders have now taken up horse riding on a regular basis. Following this, our PR/Marketing Coordinator, Lorraine Reece, who has been a happy hacker for many years, decided she would like to learn how to ride “correctly” and is now having weekly private lessons with Sarah Walker, Side Saddle Instructor/Judge and twice National Side Saddle Dressage Champion, based in Norfolk.

Here, Sarah answers our side saddle questions:

How old were you when you started riding?

I started at the age of four and got my fi rst pony when I was 11 after pestering myparents until they gave in! I knew from the age of 12 that I wanted to be a riding instructor. How did you get into side saddle riding?

I qualifi ed my Show Hunter pony for Ponies of Britain (now Ponies UK) in 1988 (my fi nal year in juniors) and wondered what to do as an adult. My mum saw a magazine article for side saddle riding and I had lessons for my 18th birthday. I furthered my training with Roger Philpott (fondly known as "Mr Side Saddle") at Pittern Hill Stables, Warwickshire - the Mecca for all side saddle riders.

Did you need a specially trained horse?

I have converted all my horses to take a side saddle and have helped others do the same. As long as you do not have a horse that rears (it is diffi cult to get off the side saddle when they do this) then the majority of horses can be converted. Most riders have a good relationship with their horse and once you have mastered the basic paces (walk, trot and canter) anyone can have fun riding on the side saddle.

Is the transition from astride riding to side saddle easy?

Many riders get frustrated because they fi nd it diffi cult to understand why they cannot just ride away fi rst time with the side saddle. The good thing is that most riders know how a horse feels so it is just a case of getting used to riding on a different saddle with legs to one side. The best way is to learn on a schoolmaster, as if you have a wobble the horse will look after you. We have started using a simulator at Easton College, which is helpful to get riders used to the position on the saddle fi rst before transferring to the real thing.

What is the most diffi cult thing about side saddle riding?

Training your legs to do different things, ie your right leg comes around the top pommel (fi xed head) and is brought back to your left leg. To keep a good grip on the saddle, the rider is required to point their toe and try to keep the back of their right heel touching the front of their shin bone on their left leg. The left leg is under the lower pommel (leaping head) and you must ride down from this pommel into the heel (the left leg should look as it would if you were riding astride). Most riders have to be reminded to resist the temptation of lifting the right foot/toe and their left heel in the stirrup.

MY SIDE OF THE STORY

Sarah Walker

D


Is side saddle riding still a popular equestrian discipline?

Very much so and it is on the increase. TV dramas like Downton Abbey do help and Horse & Hound suggested it was the thing to do in 2010. The National Side Saddle Champi-onships are held at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre, Bucks in August each year and there are well over 60 classes including dressage, jumping, showing and fancy dress. We are split into areas up and down the country and have shows around the counties. We are also allowed to ride side saddle against all astride riders for our National performance points awards. Anything the astride riders can do, we can do!

Is it as glamorous as it looks?

It would be if you could afford a groom to doall the horrible jobs! Most of the time I looklike I have fallen through a hedge so people are surprised at how well we can scrub

up when they see us in the ring! That's horses all over - whatever discipline!

What is your greatest achievement to date?

I am lucky to have achieved so much, including winning the Intermediate Equitation Class at the National Championships in 2004 and being twice National Side Saddle Dressage Champion. I have trained other riders to achieve their goals and win at County level.

What would you look for in your ideal equestrian property?

I don't go for huge mansions. I would rather have more land and facilities for my horses! Ideally I would like perfect fi elds that are fl at but also with some hills to keep the horses fi t (properly fenced and gated and ideally surrounding the property); stables in anAmerican-barn system so everyone is out of the weather with access to an indoor school with mirrors (which are helpful with teaching positions for horse and rider); a music system as this helps ride to a rhythm and is fun; an outdoor school for the summer and off road hacking (I am a riding and road safety trainer). If money were no object I would add all-weather gallops, swimming pool, a garage for my horsebox and a separate property for my grooms to live in.

Sarah is available for lectures/demonstrations at your yard and can be contacted via her “Sarah Walker Side Saddle Instructor” page on Facebook or on 07890 462992.

Fine & Country Staff at Poplar Park Equestrian Centre

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