Round Norfolk Walk Day 11 - Cromer to Aylsham

Distance: 18.5 miles
Ascent: 180m
Weather: hot and sunny

The Weavers' Way led us out of Cromer past Cromer Hall and the zoo (not open at this time :( ) , and we were soon out into the countryside, across meadows and along a little sunken lane. We then joined a steady stream of the going to Felbrigg Hall across the parkland - where we came across some gates of confusion which involved chains and pins. The day was warming up considerably, the shade of the big old trees much appreciated. We had cream teas at the Squire's Pantry, because it'd be rude not to.

We left the park via the lake and through woodland, on to quiet country lanes to Sustead village (black and white bird on roof) and up a farm track, which was also the lorry entrance. Thankfully our approach didn't coincide with any lorries.

Hanworth common is a apparently the largest enclosed common in England,  it had some gates and cattle grids, and greylag geese and goslings on pond. Around here a tree tried to steal my hat, and a sign warned us to beware of the peculiar dog.

The tarmac on road had begun to melt and we left a trail of footprints in it. A shady bench on the village green in Aldborough provided a perfect lunch spot, and it was decidedly quintessential. Although it wasn't warm enough for a couple of old timers on their allotment, who'd decided to have a fire.

At Thwaite Common we saw a warbler and some controversial belted galloway cows.

More lanes. And, if possible,  even hotter.
There was some sheep shearing taking place,  up on an open hillside, with skylarks, chaffinches and lots of pigeons. The Weavers's Way is named for the history of fabric in the area before the industrial revolution; we'll be going through Worstead...   now a commonly known woolly term. However although we've seen a few sheep, most of the land is now used for crop farming and posh houses.

One field of crops had a very bouncy deer in it. Also small red damselflies and big blue dragonflies.

Arriving at Blickling Hall, birthplace of Anne Boleyn, we entered the park by Fisherman's lake, where there were lots of benches. But we had no time for seats; we were going to have cake.  Coffee and cake was achieved at the National Trust cafe, which had the bonus of air-conditioning.

Then we were back out for the short walk on the lanes and footpaths (squirrel and mistle thrush) into Aylsham. It is hot, but at least we've managed to open the window. We haven't dared investigate the state of the Dairy Milk bar.