TRAVEL NOTEBOOK
The accessories designer shares her favourite spots to explore in Norfolk
The designer
Tabitha Simmons takes us on a tour of the most inviting gardens, beaches, inns and shops in her beloved Norfolk
Three words that describe Norfolk
‘Magical, unspoilt and unique.’
Best place to stay
‘The Gunton Arms (www.theguntonarms.co.uk) is a quirky place with great art, and deer
roaming the grounds.’
Favourite restaurants
‘Socius (www.sociusnorfolk.co.uk) in Burnham Market for delicious sharing plates, and the
Neptune (www.theneptune.co.uk) in Old Hunstanton, which serves locally sourced
quail and mussels from Brancaster.’
A hidden gem
‘With topiary, water features and wildflower meadows, the gardens at East Ruston Old Vicarage (www.e-ruston-oldvicaragegardens.
co.uk) are some of the finest in England.’
A tip for relaxation
‘Visit the Red Dot Gallery in Holt (www. thereddotgallery.com) or Houghton Hall
(www.houghtonhall.com), which has recently hosted exhibitions by Damien Hirst
and Anish Kapoor.’
Where to go for an adventure
‘Book a boat trip from Morston Quay
to view the seals or join one of the Searles Sea Tours around the coast on so-called “Ducks”, DUKW amphibious landing crafts
from the war.’
A treasured memory
‘Long days on
Holkham Beach, where my sons and I
run up and down the dunes – it reminds me of when I was a child and
did the same with my mum.’
An insider secret
‘Shop for treasures at Bayfield Hall Antiques and Interiors, the Creake
Abbey Farmers’ Market and the vintage-clothing shop Past Caring.’
What’s in your handbag?
‘I fill my Tanner Krolle Sportsman with my iPad, Smythson diary and
Ray-Ban sunglasses.’
What do you pack?
‘As the weather is unpredictable, I often bring a range of knitwear – I love La Ligne’s stripy jumpers – and jeans from J Brand, easy cotton summer dresses from LoveShackFancy
and classic one-piece Eres swimsuits.’
Beauty essentials
‘Supergoop Glowscreen, Dr Barbara Sturm Calming Serum, Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Chouchette, Chanel La Crème
Main and Glossier Soothing Face Mist.’
Your holiday read
‘Biographies like Meryl Gordon’s Bunny Mellon: The Life of an American Style Legend.’