Way back in the 17th and 18th century, this area was known as Richmond of Norfolk, because it was heavily forested, highly fashionable and hence attractive to the wealthy: now any Dick can live there. But back then it was a favourite spot for wealthy merchants to built big houses: interestingly, most of the population were housed, in the county asylum, down the road at Saint Andrews Hospital. Spotting their descendants in Norwich, at the weekend, remains a popular pastime.
With its riverside location and a choice of four pubs, it’s no surprise that the whole world descends here at weekends and on sunny evenings. Well I was there at 8.30 on a Monday morning and things were quieter.
The first pub, the Town House, was in the middle of a makeover. Aware of the opposition, down river, it was attempting to up its game. Nice paint job and nice garden. Maybe just lose some of the furniture out back.
Next up the River Garden, also with a cracking garden. To one side is a path, leading down to a small jetty, opposite Norwich Yacht Club. Already on the river, in a secret, green world were some rowers and a gang of swans, out early, looking for small children to frighten. For a while I sat in the dappled sunshine until my quiet contemplation was broken by the 8.50 Norwich to Yarmouth train flashing through the foliage beyond.
In prime location, and still the family favourite is the Rushcutters. With its large river frontage and the green just outside, it's got everything going for it: willow trees, a beautiful copper beech, hanging baskets, night lighting and benches where you can sit and watch people pottering on their boats. All they need now is a decent chef.
But here's my tip for the day. Before or after a drink, look left after the Town House and you may discover Cary's Meadow. Sure I'd heard of it but I'd never located it. Big mistake.
The thing is you'd never know it was there. But it is and we're not talking about some grubby little playground. No sireee, hidden down there, by the river is a twenty two acre meadow, absolutely full of nothing: well apart from birdsong, wildlife, grasses, a variety of paths, insects and a whole lot of quiet.
Of course now I've shared it with you, that won't last.
No comments:
Post a Comment