Luminate at Sandringham Estate

The forecast for today was rain in the morning with heavy clouds all day - thankfully that was totally incorrect. It rained overnight but today was dry and a beautiful bright and sunny day. After breakfast we drove to Blakeney and then walked from Blakeney to Cley Next the Sea, about a 7.5 mile walk along the sea defences from village to village in a circular walk. It was cold, about 9C and when we were walking along the sea defences there was a fresh breeze so a woolly hat, gloves and warm coat were necessary. By the time we got to Cley we could shed all those outer layers. We had a very good oat milk cappuccino at Artemis Cafe in Cley before walking back to Blakeney. We had noticed people on Cley beach looking out to sea with long lenses and telescopes, so when we left we went to Cley beach to see what they were looking at (Gavin was being nosey!) They were a group of ornithologists who said the weather was so clear today they were able to watch the gannets and sea ducks fishing out at sea. 

We then went to Holt which is a charming town full of cafes, art galleries and interesting shops - we bought a light take away lunch from Byfords which we ate sitting outside before we headed home. 

High tide was at 3pm today and I wanted to see the old Coal Barn at Thornham at high tide, but when we got there it was not what I had thought it would be. The best image tuned out to be of the coal barn reflected in a muddy puddle (see extra) rather than in the creek which flows past it. 

From there we drove to Sandringham Estate where we had tickets to see Luminate, a light show in the grounds of the estate. We thought it was very well done and worthwhile. Luminate is run by a small family run company and this is only the third year it has been on - in their first year they were forced to close one week after opening due to Covid. In addition to the light show they have a funfair and stalls selling hot chocolates and food, so my blip tonight is of the fun fair. I liked the little boy standing there, as if he had been directed to do so. We were lucky that it was dry and a clear night, although by the time we left at 5.45pm it was 3C and so dark you almost thought it was the middle of the night.

It has been a full day and very enjoyable, made more so by the unexpected glorious weather.