“My grandfather used to say that once in your life you need a doctor, a lawyer, a policeman, and a preacher. But every day, three times a day, you need a farmer.”
– Brenda Schoepp
Since moving to Norfolk during the summer of 2022, I have tried my best to immerse myself in as much of the local life as possible. Something I have loved doing on weekends is going on spontaneous jaunts to farm shops far and wide, accompanied by my fiance and his family.
For me, nothing beats long, leisurely drives through the Norfolk countryside…especially when accompanied by regular stop-offs to stock up on various snacks and drinks from local producers.
From sausage rolls and juices to fresh meats and cheeses – farm to table living is easy in this beautiful part of the country. The produce from farm shops is seasonal and abundant. You know exactly where your food comes from and who makes it – something that is important at a time when many of us seek to put our hard-earned money back into our local communities and support small business owners.
Here are some of my favourite farm shops I recommend you visit the next time you are on the hunt for some local produce in Norfolk.
The Acorn Hut Farm Shop
Visit for: the seasonal plant nursery and to see an array of farm animals
The Acorn Hut Farm Shop is far more than just a place you visit to stock up your pantry. Here you can also wander around the surrounding plot of land and watch the pigs, chickens as well as other farm animals go about their day. This is a great place to bring kids along to get in touch with nature and tire them out for the day. I must confess that I have yet to eat at the cute little cafe here, but everything looked delicious upon my brief initial inspection!
Address: No.1, off Watercress Ln, Mill Rd, Mattishall, Dereham NR20 3RJ
Algy’s Farm Shop
Visit for: top quality seasonal produce, pumpkins and christmas trees
Algy’s Farm Shop is family-run and has been going strong for over 90 years! The compact but abundantly stocked shop showcases some of the very best seasonal produce, both own grown and also from nearby farms/suppliers. From pic-nic favourites to the freshest fruits and veggies, Algy’s always delivers some tasty tidbits.
Address: Billingford Rd, Dereham NR20 5PW
The Goat Shed
Visit for: unique gifts and a delicious brunch
The Goat Shed is very aptly named, as you will spot numerous goats proudly going about their day housed in surrounding pens. This farm shop specialises in dairy, with cheeses being hand-made on site since 2009 – you can even book in for a cheesemaking course! The Goat Shed is also well stocked with artisan treats, both of the edible and household variety. From foodie treats to a unique gift for a friend, The Goat Shed is an ideal shopping destination for a variety of occasions.
Address: Colton Rd, Honingham, Norwich NR9 5DJ
Paddock Farm Shop
Visit for: their on-site butchery and wines from their own vineyard
Housed in a gorgeous red-brick building, Paddock Farm Shop is as beautiful on the outside as it is well-stocked on the inside. As well as having a butcher on site and offering an impressive variety of fruits, veggies and pantry staples, this farm shop also has the additional bonus of stocking its own wines from their very own vineyard.
Address: Norwich Rd, Mulbarton, Norwich NR14 8JT
Intwood Farm
Visit for: top-quality, ethically sourced meats
If you want to know exactly where your meat comes from, check out Intwood Farm Shop, where animal welfare is made a priority. Their farm is a member of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust and all animals are transported to an abattoir less than 20 minutes away. The shop is compact but tailored specifically to serving great meat/meat products, condiments and snacks.
Address: Intwood Farm The Main Farm Office, Intwood Rd, Norwich NR4 6TQ
Ampersand Brew Co
Visit for: craft beers and homemade wines
Okay, so this may not fall directly under the ‘farm shop’ category, but broadly speaking I think Ampersand Brew Co needs to be shouted about as a fabulous small local business. Family run, Ampersand produces and sells wines and beers from a small brewery in Diss. Not sure what you like? Come along to a tasting to learn more.
Address: 27-31 Sawmills Rd, Diss IP22 4GG
Old Hall Farm
Visit for: a delightful deli and cozy cafe
Old Hall Farm shop is yet another family-run farm, which focuses on the welfare of their cows and has an emphasis on dairy production. After you’ve perused their selection of meats, butter, cheeses, honey and a wide range of other produce, be sure to stop by their cafe for a snack and drink. There is also an enclosure outside where you can see some farm animals, and even a peacock or two wandering around!
Address: Norwich Rd, Bungay NR35 2LP
Wheatacre Farm Pantry
Visit for: absolutely everything you need to fill up your fridge and pantry, including vegan/gluten free items
Wheatacre Farm Pantry is housed within a long barn and is home to pretty much everything you could want from a farm shop, including an array of baked treats, fish, meats, juices and gift options. Wheatacre is one of those farm shops that is good for just about everything you might be looking for.
Address: Wheatacre Hall, Station Rd, Wheatacre, Beccles NR34 0AS
Back To The Garden
Visit for: the best farm shop cafe food
Back To The Garden prioritises the provenance and freshness of its stock and places a heavy emphasis on smaller-scale suppliers.
The restaurant adjacent to the shop is a real highlight too – bright and airy with magnificent high ceilings.
Having sampled my fair share of farm shop cafe foods, Back To The Garden always comes up as an easy favourite. Expect everything from soups to sandwiches, always memorably presented and made with the freshest ingredients.
Address: Holt, NR25 7JJ
Walsingham Farm Shop
Visit for: a little bit of everything you might need on a daily basis
Slap bang in the middle of the charming village of Little Walsingham is the very quaint Walsingham Farm Shop. Whether you’re on the lookout for fresh produce for tonight’s dinner or dry goods for your pantry, this farm shop has just about everything you might need for a spectacular snacky spread or a typical family meal.
Address: Guild St, Little Walsingham, Walsingham, Norfolk NR22 6BU
Making the decision to go to your nearest farm shop rather than your local supermarket takes more time and effort, that is undeniably true. But opting to do so once a month, for example, can really do wonders for farmers and producers in the Norfolk area.
If you have any other farm shop recommendations you’d like to share with me to review, be sure to drop me a comment. I would love to add somewhere new to my list!
Until next time,
Lica xoxo
