13th October 2024 - Ride out to Poppylands - Dave Cusdin

Nine hardy individuals gathered at our meeting point with another two to be collected on route. Splitting into 3 groups we set off to the sunnier climes of North Norfolk. The outward route involved a lot of the B1145 which runs all the way from the hospital roundabout to the coast at Mundesley. On the route at Litcham stands The Bull Inn, a 17th-century coaching inn of which some parts date further back to the 14th century. The Bull provided the first change of horses on the old coaching route out of King's Lynn to Great Yarmouth. We went as far as Reepham before cutting cross country to Buxton then on to Stalham ending at Sea Palling a short distance from our destination at Horsey.

Poppylands tearoom offers an immersive experience, complete with staff dressed in Second World War costume. Tea is served in teapots adorned by cosies and drunk from green Woods ware teacups. Upstairs a vintage television plays episode of Dad’s Army and all over the restaurant there are artefacts from the 40s. As you enter the gravel car park you pass a sentry box and barrier. Step through the door and you enter a street scene from the Blitz. Which is what it sometimes feels like if they are very busy. Ian’s group were turned away as they were apparently full so he made the decision to go down the road to Sea Palling where there are a couple of cafes and a sea view. A destination for the future perhaps? Notwithstanding this slight hiccup everyone was eventually fed and watered. The ride back took a different route using a variety of unclassified and B roads and was uneventful, even Dave Rs Triumph behaved. Thanks to Ian C and Euan for leading their respective groups. Next run out is to the Iron Horse at Market Deeping on the 27 Oct 24.

Keep it sunny side up

Cheers for now Dave C