In search of rural tranquillity

Nicholas Crane discovers that Norfolk offers a number of 'tranquil' places and lifestyle, but wonders if it will remain that way

Many dream of escaping the rat race and living a peaceful life in the country, but is that cherished ideal compatible with the realities of the 21st century?

A scientific survey by the Campaign to Protect Rural England has mapped the most tranquil parts of England.

The study, originally commissioned in 2006, shows that Norfolk is within England's top 10. It also rates as the most tranquil in the Eastern region.

The CPRE said tranquillity in the countryside mattered deeply to people.

The 'tranquillity map' uses colours to indicate the most and least tranquil areas across the UK. Red indicates areas that are least tranquil, with the most tranquil shown in deep green.

The CPRE 'tranquillity' map of Norfolk. Enlarge Map

Based on public response to a number of key survey points the research found there are only a few really large areas of tranquillity left in England.

The hope is that communities will work together to protect not only these areas that are most tranquil, but to protect and enhance those of 'medium' tranquillity, often near built-up areas.

Studies have shown one of the reasons people visit natural environments is to escape from the stress of urban areas and the experience of tranquillity and solitude.

Reality of country life

The information on the CPRS's map took TV presenter Nicholas Crane on an exploration of the reality of country life in the East of England.

His journey went from Constable Country in Essex, to the farmlands of Cambridgeshire and the north Norfolk coast.

One of England's remotest regions, Norfolk is a magnet for many seeking temporary or permanent escape from city life.

With its prolific coastline and rolling countryside, Norfolk is more sparsely populated than Nicholas' previous two locations.

A booming industry around holiday homes may, at first sight, imply it's easier to find peace here than elsewhere - but as an incomer, is it possible to work and live permanently in the county?

Nicholoas Crane visits Norfolk blacksmith James Spedding

James Spedding made a complete lifestyle change to pursue his rural dream - swapping the suburbs of south east Essex for the open landscapes of North Norfolk.

He used to work for a university teaching people how to use computers, spending his days typing and sitting behind a desk.

Now he is a blacksmith, working in a forge on the Holkham estate and in the surrounding villages.

"It just feels like another life, like someone else's life - I suppose we've found somewhere we can feel engaged with the landscape," said James.

He now lives with his wife and family in a small cottage in a 'picture postcard' village near the North Norfolk coast - a world away from his old job in information technology.