North Norfolk man opens Thistle and Tide shop in Cromer

Sam Lowe has more than 30 years' experience in hospitality and has managed a local garden centre - but has decided it is time to try and put his own stamp on a business in his hometown of Cromer.

The 47-year-old is currently furnishing and decorating the business, which will be called Thistle and Tide, on Church Street.

It will be a garden, home and giftware shop, selling, among other items, upcycled furniture, organic dog treats, chutneys and jams, as well as a selection of Christmas decorations and gifts available throughout the year.

Sam Lowe said his new shop Thistle and Tide will be 'quirky and personal'. (Image: Supplied)

Mr Lowe said: "It will be a bit quirky and personal. I'm trying to make sure everything has a garden feel at the heart of it.

"We'll see what sells and what doesn't, and tweak things as we go."

He is also planning to offer an indoor space to host and support pop up businesses, art displays and events.

All going to plan, the shop will open on Saturday, July 6. 

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Some of the items for sale in Thistle and Tide in Cromer. (Image: Supplied)

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Mr Lowe started his career working on the Broads for a family-run boating company and worked there for 25 years before managing the garden centre in Overstrand.

He said: "I very much tried to bring the community feel to the business. That's what I'm trying to do here in my own business.

"It's important to listen to what the customer wants," he added.

He was born in West Runton and has always lived in and around Cromer.

The new shop, located in the old EDP and North Norfolk News office in Cromer and a former bank, has "a lovely feel", he said. 

Mr Lowe will be helped run the shop by his partner and 12-year-old son.

The shop will be open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm and on Sunday from 9.30am to 4.30pm.