Located in North Norfolk, Cley Windmill was built in the early 19^th century and has since been converted into a beautiful place to stay. And, oh my, those views! Perched next to the River Glaven in the beautiful village of Cley-next-the-Sea, the five-storey tower mill gazes out over reed beds, the Cley marshes and countryside as far as the eye can see.

The ten quaint bedrooms, six inside the tower itself, are the epitome of character and style, with names like Miller’s Room, Wheat Chamber, Barley Bin and Boathouse indicative of the room’s historic purpose. There’s plenty of evidence of the mill’s original use with grinding stones now used as steps and all the mechanics for the sails to turn. Pay particular attention to Stone Room, which was singer James Blunt’s bedroom back when the mill belonged to his family (the lucky lad enjoyed access to the balcony that encircles the mill).

Rooms are warm and cosy, with a wonderful old meets new philosophy – hook up to the wi-fi while lying in your four-poster bed; look out onto fields of heather while showering in your stylish wet room. As for character, think wood cladding, exposed brickwork, open fires, vaulted wooden ceilings and antique furniture.

The latest addition to the portfolio of unique rooms is The Old Cart Shed, which offers self-catering possibilities in its shaker kitchenette (as does Dovecote cottage in the original stables), but who wants to cook with so many fantastic restaurants nearby (we’re looking at you, Wiveton Bell and Morston Hall)?

Breakfast is served to windmill guests, with the newly reopened restaurant offering a three-course set-menu in the evenings, Thu to Sat (open to all). During the summer months there’s also a garden café, offering cakes and light lunches.

Cley Windmill also doubles up as a unique wedding venue, which hosts up to 80 weddings a year for a maximum of 50 guests. It certainly has a bridal suite extraordinaire. The Wheel Room, accessed by a steep ladder, offers the finest views around.

Did we mention Cley Windmill is also available for private house parties (sleeping up to 26)? Now for who to invite…

As James Blunt would say – “You’re beautiful, it’s true”. We’re definitely singing the praises of Cley Windmill!