A landmark thatched house which has taught the joy of Norfolk Broads nature and history to thousands of children and adults has celebrated a major milestone.
Supporters of the How Hill Trust turned out to toast the 40th anniversary of the environmental study centre at Ludham being run by the current charity. It took over the facility from the county council which closed it in 1983 during cutbacks having operated the centre for 17 years.
Since then it has hosted day and residential courses for students and adults, focussing on the ecology and heritage of the local landscape of river, marsh and woodland.
To mark the four decades the charity invited more than 60 guests who have been involved with the centre’s proud past, and gave them an insight into its future.
Guests toured the house and gardens, and visited the wherry Hathor which moors at How Hill each summer to add to the heritage education and which was decked out in bunting for the occasion.
They included former director David Holmes, Baroness (Gillian) Shephard whose late husband Tom was one of the early trustees, Prof Tim O’Riordan an original trustee and Shirley Place whose great grandparents Edward and Florence Boardman built How Hill in 1905 originally as a holiday home, which became the permanent family residence.
Director Simon Partridge said the venue now combined school and adult courses, and unlike some other similar centres had survived the enforced Covid break – using it to future-proof the house by adding en-suites to the bedrooms.
The improvements were enabling the centre to increase the number of adult courses which range from wherry sailing and garden tours to choral society stays and yoga retreats.
Chairman Richard Batson said How Hill had a special place in the hearts of its young visitors who made lifelong memories and friends while enjoying hands-on learning that could not be replicated in the classroom.
He added: “Many adult visitors remember the great time they had at How Hill as schoolchildren and we aim to ensure that continues into the future.
“While we are striving to be self-funding, we rely on the generous support of people through attending events, joining our Friends group, making donations or leaving legacies, for which we are always grateful – particularly now at a time of rising costs in running a Grade II listed thatched building.”
Upcoming adult courses at How Hill include a seven day wherry’s experience sailing on Ardea to Oulton Broad, Beccles, Norwich and Wroxham from August 26-September 2
For tickets and information about adult courses and ways to support How Hill call 01692 678555 or email secretary@howhilltrust.org.uk or visit www.howhilltrust.org.uk.
