A 'shopping village' is a complex of independent businesses, ranging from plant shops to cafés, often centred around a courtyard.

Here are some of the best ones you can visit in Norfolk to pick up unique gifts, local produce and much more. 

Eastern Daily Press: Martin Dupee outside Willow Tree Delicatessen at Wroxham Barns. Martin Dupee outside Willow Tree Delicatessen at Wroxham Barns. (Image: Archant 2022)

1. Wroxham Barns, Hoveton

Wroxham Barns is a much-loved family attraction, which includes cute animals at the Junior Farm and rides in the Fun Park, but you can enter the shopping village for free.

Among the independent businesses located at Wroxham Barns include Willow Tree Delicatessen, Pat's Wooden Crafts and Engraving and newcomer Bee Creative. 

Eastern Daily Press: Sisters Sarah Turcu and Lisa Bolingbroke inside The Watering Can at White House FarmSisters Sarah Turcu and Lisa Bolingbroke inside The Watering Can at White House Farm (Image: Archant)

2. White House Farm, Sprowston

This farm, run by couple Charlotte and Oliver Gurney, is a hub for local businesses with shops such as The Watering Can with plants and gifts and Dotty Pottery.

It also boasts a farm shop, café and butchery and hosts a popular monthly farmers' market.

Eastern Daily Press: The Artisan Café at Alby Crafts and GardensThe Artisan Café at Alby Crafts and Gardens (Image: ARTISAN CAFE)

3. Alby Crafts and Gardens, Alby

Located off the A140 between Aylsham and Cromer, this shopping village is the perfect pitstop on a trip into the city or to the coast.

Alongside a range of shops and studios, the quirky Artisan Café is a great place to visit for a tasty breakfast or lunch.

Peacocks also roam the Alby Crafts site creating a truly unique experience. 

Eastern Daily Press: Emporium Norwich recently opened at Hellesdon BarnsEmporium Norwich recently opened at Hellesdon Barns (Image: Owen Sennitt)

4. Hellesdon Barns, Hellesdon

Located just off Sweet Briar Road, Hellesdon Barns is a complex of small businesses, which includes a garden centre.

For those with a sweet tooth, Brazillian-born Marcela Da Costa has just opened Emporium Norwich handmade chocolate shop at the site. 

Eastern Daily Press: Creake Abbey hosts regular events Creake Abbey hosts regular events (Image: Creake Abbey)

5. Creake Abbey, Fakenham

There are plenty of brilliant shops to visit at Creake Abbey, which is just a stone's throw from the tranquil ruins of a former Augustinian church.

This includes Constance Rose with fresh flowers and bouquets and Lox Hair Design, with a monthly farmers' market held at the site too.