Bringing people together for nature at Martha’s Meadow

A Countryside Day at Martha’s Meadow welcomed more than 200 visitors for a celebration of nature, creativity and community.

A special day in a special place

More than 200 people visited Martha’s Meadow throughout the day for A Countryside Day at Martha’s Meadow, hosted by CPRE Norfolk.

Set within the beautiful surroundings of Martha’s Meadow in Southery, the event brought together local organisations, artists, photographers, conservation groups and volunteers to encourage people of all ages to experience and appreciate Norfolk’s countryside.

Visitors arrived steadily throughout the day, creating a gentle buzz around the meadow as families, local residents and visitors explored the various activities, displays and exhibits at their own pace.

The event was free for children and CPRE members, with admission just £2 for everyone else, helping to ensure that learning about and enjoying the countryside remained affordable and accessible to all.

The story behind Martha’s Meadow

The day was made possible thanks to the generosity of Adrian and Claire Pope, who have spent the past twelve years transforming Martha’s Meadow into a haven for wildlife.

Through ponds, wildlife habitats and thoughtful land management, they have created a space where nature can thrive while inspiring others to consider what they might do within their own gardens and communities.

Their message is simple:

It doesn’t matter how big your garden is – every action can make a difference for nature.

Nature recovery starts at home

The event also provided an opportunity for visitors to engage with Norfolk’s emerging Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

Norfolk County Council’s Environment Team were on hand to help people understand the priorities for nature recovery across the county and explore how they might contribute within their own spaces.

Maggie Swinfen, Assistant Project Officer for Engagement and Stakeholder Management at Norfolk County Council, said:

“It was amazing to be surrounded by so many local people who are passionate about nature recovery and making the most of the space they’ve got, regardless of its size.

We’re really grateful for the opportunity to take people through the Local Nature Recovery Strategy mapping and show how and where the priorities related to their land and space.”

Bringing like-minded people together

One of the strongest themes to emerge from the day was the joy of connection.

Visitors, exhibitors and volunteers spoke about the value of meeting others who shared their passion for wildlife, creativity and the countryside.

Exhibitors commented on how rewarding it had been to connect with people who were genuinely interested in what they do, while visitors described Martha’s Meadow as a peaceful and inspiring place that had helped them see nature in a different way.

As one visitor reflected:

“Many thanks to all concerned with Martha’s Meadow for a lovely few hours gaining information and peace with nature. Truly a beautiful place.”

A community effort

The event involved:

• More than 200 visitors
• Around 15 volunteers
• 12 local organisations and exhibitors
• Over £1,000 raised for CPRE Norfolk

Families took part in activities ranging from fairy door making and bug hunting to pond dipping and guided walks, creating memories and discovering new ways to engage with the natural world.

The funds raised will help support CPRE Norfolk’s ongoing work to protect, promote and enhance Norfolk’s countryside.

Looking ahead

The success of the day demonstrated the power of bringing people together in celebration of Norfolk’s countryside.

Beyond the funds raised for CPRE Norfolk, the event created new partnerships, strengthened existing relationships and inspired people to think differently about the role they can play in supporting nature.

At a time when discussions about the environment can often feel overwhelming, Martha’s Meadow offered something different: hope, practical action and the simple reminder that every person can make a difference.

Because protecting the countryside isn’t just about safeguarding special places.

It’s about helping people fall in love with them too.