Norfolk


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE LAGOON</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.backwaternorfolk.co.uk/">Backwater</a>, Wroxham</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Backwater.jpg" alt="View across private lagoon to Backwater holiday house in Norfolk" class="wp-image-41740" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Backwater.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Backwater-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Backwater-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Backwater-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Super-spacious Backwater has a jetty on its own tranquil lagoon at Wroxham, the capital of the Broads. It’s no surprise that the luxe house, which sleeps eight in four bedrooms, has won awards for its sleek design – its veranda creates a stunning outdoor room and it couldn’t be closer to the water (in fact, it’s surrounded on three sides, so perhaps not ideal for little ones). Spend your days lazing by the private sun-dappled lagoon and stargazing after the sun sets. Its deep-sheltered canopy means you won’t need to head inside even if the weather turns – watch the raindrops on the lagoon with a bottle of something bubbly.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE LAKE</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.frittonlake.co.uk/">Fritton Lake</a>, Fritton</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Fritton-Lake.jpg" alt="Lakeside cabin at Fritton Lake" class="wp-image-41742" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Fritton-Lake.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Fritton-Lake-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Fritton-Lake-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Fritton-Lake-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>From farm cottages and boutique rooms in the 16th century Clubhouse to a swish lakeside cabin hidden in the woods (complete with wood-fired hot tub), you can pick your perfect escape at Fritton Lake. You’ll have access to the heated outdoor pool, floating sauna, yoga, foraging courses, spa treatments, paddle-boarding and tons more during your stay, and because Fritton Lake is only open to its members and guests, you’re guaranteed some peace and quiet (it’s also doing some very cool rewilding work, so no eco-guilt here). Eat at its Clubhouse, where dishes like hogget ragu and sausage and sauerkraut toastie celebrate local suppliers, food grown on the estate and foraged delicacies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE MARSHES</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://norfolk.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/cley-windmill-cley/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cley Windmill</a>, Cley-next-the-Sea</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/06/Cley-Windmill3.jpg" alt="Cley Windmill" class="wp-image-41945" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/06/Cley-Windmill3.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/06/Cley-Windmill3-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/06/Cley-Windmill3-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/06/Cley-Windmill3-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>For a staycation with a difference, get yourself booked in at Cley Windmill where there’s a mix of bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation. Perched next to the River Glaven in this beautiful North Norfolk village, the five-storey tower mill gazes out over reed beds, the Cley marshes and countryside as far as the eye can see. It’s a great setting for a romantic getaway – order a hamper of artisan treats to your room, or head out to one of the many fantastic restaurants nearby (we’re looking at you, Wiveton Bell and Morston Hall). Spend your days hopping between pretty coastal villages and exploring the flora and fauna of Cley Marshes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk/">The White Horse</a>, Brancaster&nbsp;</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1.jpg" alt="Bedroom at White Horse Brancaster" class="wp-image-41750" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1-525x525.jpg 525w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/White-Horse-Brancaster-1-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>The White Horse has such amazing views over the marshes that it’s opened a marshside marquee (a marsh-quee, if you will) to make the most of them. Talented head chef Frances Hartshorne’s menu is brimming with all things delish (<a href="https://norfolk.muddystilettos.co.uk/life/people/whats-cooking-frances-hartshorne-the-white-horse-brancaster-staithe-norfolk/">check out our chat with her here</a>), but we’re particular fans of the sharing seafood platter. Get some R&amp;R in one of its 15 bedrooms (including the Room at The Top, which is split over two levels and has its own telescope) or eight garden rooms, which, built into the natural contours of the land, all have their own terraces just yards away from the Norfolk Coastal Path, making them a great fit for ramblers and bikers.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-by-the-sea"><strong>BY THE SEA</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.shangri-la.house/">Shangri-La House</a>, Waxham</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Shangri-La.jpg" alt="Aerial view of Shangri-La by Waxham beach" class="wp-image-41744" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Shangri-La.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Shangri-La-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Shangri-La-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Shangri-La-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>The humble beach shack has been reimagined into a seriously stylish retreat thanks to Shangri-La House, which is tucked behind the dunes at secluded Waxham – head out the door and you’ll have sand between your toes in no time. It’s surrounded by lush gardens and trees, a picnic and barbecue area, with a firepit and sun loungers to boot. Inside, think five-star hotel mod-cons, super eco-friendly credentials and floor-to-ceiling windows (ideal for a bit of nature-spotting from bed). It sleeps six across three bedrooms and welcomes well-behaved pooches.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE QUAY</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.blakeney-hotel.co.uk/">Blakeney Hotel</a>, Blakeney</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Blakeney-Hotel.jpg" alt="View across the Quay to The Blakeney Hotel" class="wp-image-41745" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Blakeney-Hotel.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Blakeney-Hotel-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Blakeney-Hotel-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Blakeney-Hotel-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Right in the middle of beautiful Blakeney and boasting panoramic marsh views, Blakeney Hotel’s location is pretty hard to top. Perk yourself up with a coffee and soak in the views from its Look Out lounge before heading out to explore the gorgeous Norfolk coast. When you’re back, rejuvenate in the pool and steam room and nip down to the restaurant for dinner, choosing from a menu of super-seasonal and local goodies. Its rooms are country house chic, with lovely views, balconies and patios leading onto the gardens – if you’re travelling with little ones, ask about its most family-friendly options.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE RIVER&nbsp;</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.sculthorpemill.uk/">Sculthorpe Mill</a>, Sculthorpe</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Sculthorpe-Mill.jpg" alt="View across the River Wensum to Sculthorpe Mill" class="wp-image-41743" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Sculthorpe-Mill.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Sculthorpe-Mill-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Sculthorpe-Mill-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Sculthorpe-Mill-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>All seven bedrooms at this charming watermill-turned-country pub have views out over the gardens and River Wensum, coffee machines and fancy speakers (but no TVs, because who wants to be sat in front of the telly with vistas that special?). Though the historic mill is well worth a visit alone, its restaurant is definitely one of its biggest selling points – now featured in the Michelin guide, it’s a foodie paradise, with the likes of Brancaster lobster and pork rib-eye chop on the menu (if you’re on a romantic getaway, go for the grilled rib of beef for two). For the ultimate start to your break, check in, ditch your bags and order your vino to a riverside table.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE BROADS</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.theboathouseormesbybroad.co.uk/">The Boathouse</a>, Ormesby&nbsp;</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="600" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Boathouse-Ormesby.jpg" alt="View across Ormesby Broad to The Boathouse in Norfolk" class="wp-image-41749" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Boathouse-Ormesby.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Boathouse-Ormesby-800x480.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Boathouse-Ormesby-768x461.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Boathouse-Ormesby-875x525.jpg 875w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Set in 11 acres of parkland on the banks of the enchanting Ormesby Broad, it’s no wonder The Boathouse is so popular with brides-to-be, but you don’t need to be tying the knot to stay. Book one of the rooms in its main building or make a beeline for its woodland lodges (there’s three, sleeping four to eight people). All have fully kitted-out kitchens, luxury bathrooms and private terraces, where you can while away the summer evenings. If you don’t fancy cooking, head into the restaurant for dinner – we’ll be having the duo of lamb, please.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE NATURAL SWIMMING POND</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.thompsonhallretreat.co.uk/">Thompson Hall Retreat</a>, Thompson</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat.jpg" alt="Thompson Hall Retreat" class="wp-image-41747" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat-768x768.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat-525x525.jpg 525w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/Thompson-Hall-Retreat-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Switch off from the day-to-day and recharge your batteries at Thompson Hall’s retreats, set in the peaceful King Edward VIII Wood. There are shepherd’s huts with views over Norfolk Wildlife Trust land, spa lodges with private spa areas and the bigger giraffe enclosure safari tent – all with private wood-fired hot tubs. It’s set around the Lotus Spa &#8211; the winner of Best Day Spa in our Muddy Awards 2023 &#8211; which has a natural swimming pool, swim spa, hot tub, treatments, barrel sauna and cold plunge pool (if you dare!). After all that relaxation, head to the on-site Botanical Bistro, where foraged and local treats are the order of the day.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BY THE SEA</strong></h2>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://www.crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk/accommodation/copper-bath-rooms/room-23/">The Crown</a>, Wells&nbsp;</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Crown.jpg" alt="Rooftop suite room 23 at The Crown, Wells" class="wp-image-41746" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Crown.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Crown-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Crown-768x511.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/norfolk/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2023/05/The-Crown-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Though there are 20 luxury ensuites to choose from at The Crown, it’s room 23 that caught our eye. It’s prime real estate, a rooftop suite with gorgeous views from the huge balcony, an al fresco copper bath, table for four and sun loungers. Book rooms 21 and 22 to make a three-room suite if there’s a gang of you and, if you can tear yourself away from the terrace, head to its restaurant and order the likes of its crab platter for two or vegan laksa curry for some top-notch cooking.</p>



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<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><em>If you&#8217;re staying by the seaside &#8211; or nearby &#8211; you&#8217;ll need <a href="https://muddystilettos.co.uk/travel/uk/coastal-walks-essex-norfolk-suffolk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our guide to gorgeous coastal path walks</a> along East Anglia’s 350-mile stretch of coastline.</em></h4>



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10 stunning waterside escapes in Norfolk

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