Shopping At The Showground

Last Friday [7th] Julian arrived at lunchtime, as Bob got back from the Hospice. We had a quick snack then drove off to the Royal Norfolk Showground arriving at 2pm. The tickets were reduced after 1.30, which was a pleasant surprise.

We had much fun walking around the many stalls - some outside, some inside the exhibition building, and a few in a large marquee.

What can I say about the event? It was much as you would expect, a real mixture of stuff, ranging from overpriced tat which you might find at half the price on Romford Market, to handcrafted artisanal products made with care from quality materials, also costly, but perhaps better value for money!

And in between some middle range stuff, and lots of foodie gifts, with enthusiastic stall holders plying visitors with samples.

Bob and Julian were channelling Homer Simpson...

Chutneys, oils, chocolates, almonds [almonds are the best nuts] fudge, cheeses...a veritable banquet. And tiny sips of whiskys, fruit gins, and other drinks for those who like that. We sat outside with large cups of flavoured hot chocolate.

I did not feel the need to purchase vintage cutlery stamped with twee messages "Grandad's porridge spoon" "lovely grub" etc. So many of the items had spelling mistakes! Nor did I splash the cash for a pair of waving Santa legs 

We chatted to some interesting stallholders, and some who may have been related to Del and Rodney Trotter. There was a woman selling Primark pyjamas [with just ½ the label cut out] and another 'Norfolk Crafter'with "handmade ornaments" with the 'made in China' labels still on the bottom!  Lots of food stalls, with wide choice of menus [burgers, fries, pizza, donuts, curries, cookies, etc] And at the end of the row, 3 open fronted tents set up for selfies - Enchanted Forest with sleigh, Fairyland, and Royal Palace. A kind passerby took our family picture

Altogether a fun afternoon out. A much drier Friday than yesterday. All three of us bought a present ir two. But I can't reveal what!