Lorna Marsh takes a closer look at Loddon, a town situated
just a few miles from Norwich boasting a host of facilities but
with a friendly village atmosphere.
Please note that the postcard from series
ended in 2004 and that descriptions of shops and services were correct at
time of going to press
Where
is it:
Nestling just beside the main A146 Norwich to Beccles road, around
10 miles south of the city, Loddon has all the benefits of easy
access with no through traffic.
What is the population?
Loddon has grown rapidly over the past few years and its population
now stands at more than 2000.
Best known landmarks:
The centre is dominated by the church of the Holy Trinity, built
at the end of the 15th century, with Church Plain at its front which
provides a focal point for the town. The tourism industry centres
around the pretty staithe.
The River Chet at Loddon Staithe.
History:
The town grew on the hill to the south of the River Chet, much
as its neighbouring parish Chedgrave grew on the hill to the north
of the river, close to the ford which gave a convenient crossing
on the westerly edge of the marshes. The name is said to derive
from the Anglo-Saxon word for “muddy river”.
Best place for a drink:
The King’s Head is popular, as is the Loddon Swan, which
also has a function room to cater for occasions like weddings, anniversaries
and parties.
And for something to eat:
Both the King’s Head and the Swan have food
and the town also boasts a Bangladeshi restaurant, as well as Chinese and fish and chip take-aways.
Any opportunities for retail therapy?
Loddon is one of the few remaining towns in Norfolk not to have
been taken over by big chain stores – and is proud of it.
There are several specialist shops as well as friendly grocery stores
containing whatever you might need for a day out. The town has plenty
of gift shops, and a fishmonger and delicatessen offers Cromer crabs
and organic bread.
What about when I want to get away
from the shops?
The Lawnes Beauty Clinic has peaceful surroundings in which to pamper
yourself with a facial, manicure or a host of other treatments.
Loddon, which has been designated a conservation area, is the only
town of any size in South Norfolk with direct access to the Broads
and is a major centre for tourism with a number of boatyards based
on the River Chet providing hire craft for holiday makers.
