Burnham Deepdale > Shopping
The Hare and Hen, Burnham Deepdale
The Hare and Hen is situated at Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale. We caught up with the owner, Philippa Lee to find out more about her business.
Can you tell us a little bit about The Hare and Hen?
The Hare and the Hen opened at Burnham Deepdale in 2010 and I have spent a very happy 10 years here. I stock a wide range of British handmade crafts supplied by makers all over the British Isles with the occasional offshore gifts thrown in. Alongside this, I am able to make pots whilst the shop is open which helps to put all the work in context and customers can appreciate the work that goes into creating.
What gave you the inspiration for The Hare and Hen?
I am inspired by the beautiful North Norfolk coast in all its seasons and am fortunate to be able walk in it which gives me a lot of joy. The children’s book I have written and illustrated is based on the coast with the hare and the hen as characters – with another in the pipeline!
What makes The Hare and Hen unique?
I have many loyal customers who, even if they only visit once a year, seem to enjoy the shop and often mention how calm it is! For me, working with clay is very soothing and watching a pot being made on the wheel can be quite meditative! I am fortunate to always have a steady flow of commissions that bring their own challenges (a large tile panel with a rhinoceros and its baby to go behind an Aga was interesting!).
What do you love most about what you do?
I get a lot of enjoyment from sourcing work for the shop and am constantly on the lookout for new artists as I like to keep a fresh look to the shop. Visiting craftspeople and their studios as well as attending a few trade fairs through the year is a real highlight.
After visiting you, where would you recommend to go for a coffee?
I always recommend the White Horse for coffee but more importantly for the best view of the coast from the comfort of a terrace or restaurant, as well as being a couple of hundred yards from the Hare and the Hen..
What is your favourite thing to do in North Norfolk on your day off?
Days off are very precious and I try and spend as much time as possible outside along the coast or cycling through the lanes. It’s a luxury to live in such a wonderful place.
