Samantha Mattocks Actor and singer Jules Knight is best known for being part of the Classical Brit award-winning band, Blake, and for playing Dr Harry Tressler on Holby City. For the past five years, he has been living in Norfolk, falling in love with all the county offers. With his star in the ascent, Jules has decided to move closer to London. Jules shares all that he loves about Norfolk with Samantha Mattocks.
living in Norfolk
I moved up to Wells from south-west London full-time five years ago. I was in Wells for two years, before moving to Whissonsett, a village found between Dereham and Fakenham.
For me, the best thing about Norfolk is the beautiful countryside, and the wildlife, plus the vast sandy beaches that can be practically empty in the autumn and winter months.
hidden gems
I have been lucky enough to live just down the road from the Brisley Bell, and it’s been a really important part of my Norfolk life. When you live in Norfolk, you can feel quite isolated, and so these community hubs are very important. And with the Brisley Bell, we are very lucky in that it is a beautifully decorated pub where you can dine and drink in style. Other highlights are the White Horse in Brancaster, with its fantastic seafood and stunning views, and the excellent Flo and Joe in Wells, who serve the best coffee in the county.
unwinding
I recently joined Fritton Lakes, a private members club. It is the ultimate place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. One of my favourite things to do ever is to sit in the sleek lakeside sauna built by the amazing Koto cabins, and then jump into the lake with my dog, Samphire. There is a beautiful Clubhouse that serves delicious food and cocktails, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a well-equipped and stylish gym. It is the ultimate retreat.
foodie
After many years of considering it, I have recently become a pescatarian. That has meant becoming a little more creative with my cooking. I recently rediscovered Indonesian tempeh – made from fermented soy beans – which I’ve been frying with garlic and onions, then serving in a creamy lemon sauce with steamed broccoli and quinoa. It’s really delicious.
I’ve always loved puddings, and this week I made my speciality, banoffee pie, which is always absolutely addictive. I love seabass, oysters, and other shellfish, as well as good old-fashioned fish and chips. I have had some cravings for meat but have actually been amazed at how disciplined I am being. I love animals and decided that I couldn’t continue to eat them! But I couldn’t quite make the jump to being a full-on vegan or veggie, so fish is still on the menu – for now!
walking
I love walking and make sure to do at least 20,000 steps every day. Having my dog really helps me keep disciplined with this, because she needs a lot of exercise. I quite often park at Holkham Hall, then walk along the sandy beach to Wells, up through the town, grabbing some delicious cakes at Howells bakery, and then through the side gates of Holkham, along the woodland path and back to my car.
farewell to Norfolk
I will always remember my years as a Norfolk resident fondly. It’s been a big part of my life for many years, because it is where my father lived and died, and where I later found peace after a hectic London life.
I will miss the windy beach and woodland walks, the stunning sunsets looking across perfectly flat fields with views for miles, a pint of local Barsham beer in a cosy pub in winter, warming up by a roaring log fire, and the great friends that I have made here.
the artist
I recently did some filming for the History channel, as well as a Christmas movie called A Jolly Good Christmas. I’m moving to Sussex to be closer to London, as things have started to get really busy with auditions. I’m also planning on doing another EP or album, this time with a focus on country music. Watch out for it!
banoffee pie
Somewhat of a speciality of mine, I give you the banoffee pie – made with ginger nuts rather than digestives; it works a treat! I first tasted this, my favourite pudding, in its birthplace at The Hungry Monk in Jevington, East Sussex. It was my favourite restaurant, but sadly closed in 2012, after over 40 years of excellence.
- Click here for a delicious banoffee pie recipe
- You can follow Jules on Instagram at @julesknightofficial
- All pics owned by Julia Holland
