Alby
This small village, roughly five miles north-east of Aylsham is made up of scattered houses and farmland. Found on the A140 Norwich to Cromer road, it is home to the popular tourist attraction, Alby Crafts. The craft showrooms and workshops, which are situated within restored farm buildings, attract many visitors, especially during the holiday season.
The farm buildings, called Grove Farm, were built in 1850 by William Howe Windham, who also owned a large estate in Felbrigg. Windham modernised his farms, building them from red brick and flint, which are very traditional building materials in this area.
John Alston, the owner of the neighbouring farm, bought Grove Farm in 1959 and him and Valerie Alston decided to convert the buildings into a craft centre. Today the tearoom, gallery, workshops and shops are independently run by many talented artists, shopkeepers and craftspeople. Alby Tearooms are available for private hire events such as afternoon tea, birthdays, weddings and anniversaries with the 4-acre garden being open daily too. They also host events throughout the year such as plant and garden fairs and Christmas wreath workshops.
The gardens are home to many beautiful species of plants, including primroses, irises, fritillaries and wild orchids. There are four ponds, a small woodland area, a wild area, a stream and island area which can be seen by visitors during their wanders.
