Great Massingham:

Of course we are biased but few could contest that Great Massingham is definitely one of Norfolk’s most attractive villages. At it’s heart is one of the most impressive greens in the county and the village is characterised by a number of large ponds inhabited by many ducks, geese and moorhens. Some of these ponds have their origins as the fish ponds for an 11th century Augustinian Abbey.  You can still fish in them today and buy a day permit from the Post Office, though we have been told it doesn’t present much challenge for the experienced angler.

The village’s origins are thought to go back to the 5th century, but today it is still a thriving community with a village shop and post office, several small businesses, and a very popular gastro-pub, The Dabbling Duck.

Whilst agriculture has been the mainstay of the village’s prosperity, Massingham Airfield was also home to a number of RAF bomber squadrons during World War II. Apparently one of the aircraft failed to make it back to the airfield and crashed in the field immediately behind West Heath Barn though no trace remains today.

It’s a pleasant 25 minute walk into the village along the track crossing Peddars Way where we would strongly recommend a visit to St Mary’s Church, a quick chat to the ducks and then a leisurely drink at the pub.