In the bustling streets of London, Andrew and Simon lived demanding corporate lives, with Andrew in public health and Simon in luxury hospitality.
But after years of city living, they craved something more fulfilling — a change in lifestyle, pace, and purpose.
So, they made the brave decision to leave London behind and begin a new chapter in rural Norfolk - not only through buying a home but opening a now much-loved café nestled in a historic village.
Their journey to Norfolk began with the purchase of a holiday home in Cornwall, where they owned and operated a café.
The experience not only allowed them to explore the joys of running a business but provided a glimpse of a more balanced life.
After successfully building up the café and selling it, they were ready for their next adventure…
That’s when they discovered Wittles, a café in the heart of Castle Acre, a picturesque and historic village in Norfolk.
With parts of the building dating back 500 years and surrounded by English Heritage sites like Castle Acre Castle and Priory, the property offered the perfect blend of history, community, and opportunity.
The Move to Norfolk: Starting Over, Building Community
The transition from London to Norfolk wasn’t without its challenges. When Andrew and Simon first arrived, the world was in the grips of the COVID pandemic.
Unsure how to start their new venture in this uncertain time, they took a humble approach: they set up a table in the doorway of their new café, baked cakes and soup, and invited their neighbours to come and introduce themselves.
The response was heart-warming. The local community welcomed them with open arms, and it became clear that Castle Acre wasn’t just a village, but a close-knit community with an incredible spirit.
As the world moved on from the pandemic, Wittles Café fully opened its doors, and it quickly became a beloved local spot for both residents and tourists alike.
Today, the café is renowned for its delicious brunches, lunches, and "everything in between," offering fresh, seasonal produce sourced locally.
The menu reflects the couple’s love for café classics, and their passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere is evident in every interaction with their guests.
A Perfect Blend: Café, Home, and Community
Wittles Café isn't just a business; it’s also their home.
The property offers a unique opportunity for anyone looking to combine living and working in a truly idyllic setting.
The café itself has space for 26 diners, with a large kitchen and plenty of storage for business needs.
But upstairs, a private three-bedroom apartment provides a retreat from the day-to-day operations, complete with exposed beams, a log burner, and even a conservatory that opens onto stunning terraces overlooking a walled garden.
“The work-life balance here is perfect,” Andrew says, “We do as much as we want, and the business provides a healthy income. For us, it's the ideal lifestyle — one that anyone could easily step into.”
An Opportunity for the Next Dreamers
Now, Andrew and Simon are ready to pass the torch to the next owners.
Wittles offers a truly turnkey experience: the café is fully operational, complete with a loyal customer base, and the property is freehold.
For those looking to diversify or expand, there are countless opportunities. The café space could be used as it is, or expanded into the upstairs area, and the private garden could be integrated into the business.
There is even a separate retail space sub-let to a successful florist, providing an additional income stream from day one.
Located in the charming village of Castle Acre, the property is at the heart of Norfolk’s rural charm and history.
Visitors to the area are drawn to the village’s Norman ruins, ancient church, and the famous Peddars Way walking trail.
The steady flow of tourists and leisure visitors ensures year-round business, while the active local community provides support and engagement.
For anyone looking to escape the city and embrace a slower pace of life, Wittles offers the perfect opportunity.
As Andrew sums it up: “Castle Acre and Wittles have given us everything we hoped for — a thriving business, a beautiful home, and a sense of peace and belonging that we never found in the city.”
So, if you’re dreaming of a new start in a stunning Norfolk village, Wittles could be the perfect place to make it a reality.
Book a viewing today.