Royal Norfolk County Show with Midi, Isobel & Helen

 Royal Norfolk County Show

Two brilliant days were spent at The Royal Norfolk Show. It's participants and exhibitors come from across the country to compete in many equine and livestock competitions. There was a range of displays and demonstrations, showing farming of the past to the innovations of the future, focusing on the high-tech machinery. First, we started off with saying 'hello' to all the best of the different breeds of sheep. The Beacham Well Border Leicester sheep that have long, bunny-like ears, was very unusual and was the breed that fascinated us the most. Naturally, we were surprised at the quantity of different breeds. We were told that there are over 80 different breeds of sheep in the country.

We moved over to the agricultural machinery and couldn't resist some photos with the different tractors. There were classic and modern farming machinery that has made our countries farming industry one of the strongest in the world. 

The horticultural tent was next where we marvelled at the impressive home-grown fruit and veg. The flower displays were so bright and smelt divine. The art gallery had some fantastic pictures of animals and farm scenes. 

 

A highlight of the day was watching the horse jumping. It was a fast and furious event where the rider had to complete a set of jumps, dismount and then drive a Mini through a set of cones without knocking the balls off. It was all very exciting, and we cheered and clapped the whole way through. We then watched the best in show for the cattle where rosettes were awarded. 

The Royal Salute wowed us. This consisted of an orchestra alongside local school children waving Commonwealth flags. It made for a very upbeat and lively show where everyone joined in with dancing. This was then followed by watching the sensational R.A.F parachute regiment jump out of their plane that was flying a few thousand feet above us. Six very well-trained parachuters made their descents down, completing different drills in the air which had us in awe. Huge cheers greeted all the parachuters once they landed safely.

After an ice cream treat, we headed to watch the Bolddog Lings Motorcycle Display Team. They were totally fearless with their daredevil stunts, and we all gasped out loud as they flew, twisted and turned through the air. 

We loved chatting away to the soldiers at the Royal Air Force. They answered all of our questions and it was an amazing experience to actually sit in one of their planes and put on some of their uniform. 

Today we set off on an exciting trip on a sailboat. With our lifejackets on we started our cruise along the beautiful broads. Our fabulous tour guide pointed out all the different birds which gave Ian the perfect chance to use his binoculars. As well as admiring the wildlife we were amazed at the luxurious properties lining the riverbank. 

For the rest of the afternoon, we boarded The Bure Valley Railway. This is Norfolk's longest narrow-gauge steam railway and runs between the market town of Aylsham and the bustling Broads town of Wroxham and is within easy reach of Norwich and the coast. The nine-mile line ran through the picturesque Bure Valley countryside which we all loved looking out onto! Our favourite moment was sticking our heads out of the window for a photo opportunity.

It was a unanimous vote to head into the city of Norwich. On arrival we parked up and made our way to Norwich Cathedral. We were all in awe of the high ceilings and the brightly coloured stained-glass windows. The Font, Jesus Chapel and St Luke’s Chapel were very interesting, too. We all lit a candle for a loved one and it was a very special moment.  We then walked into the old part of the city where we browsed a number of quaint shops.