|
|
 Norfolk Hotels
Much of Norfolk's appeal lies in the wide beaches that sweep along its northern coastline - perfect for bucket-and-spade holidays - and the breezy salt marshes behind that offer unbeatable bird-watching. There's sailing here, as well as on the unique network of waterways that form the famous Broads. Inland, the rolling countryside is criss-crossed by footpaths and dotted with woods and unspoilt flint villages. There are walks everywhere, from gentle rambles to serious hikes (including the Roman Peddars Way and the North Norfolk Coast Path). Despite these attractions, for years Norfolk was shy of good hotels. Now, at last, there are more, clustered - not surprisingly - on the north coast, though we recommend a few elsewhere (including Fritton House in the Broads and Strattons in Swaffham). The hotels are listed by price category, and their order bears no reflection on our preference.
 Reviews by Fiona Duncan |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
| Luxury: Eclectic, welcoming, family-run bolthole |
| Location: in the centre of the market town of Swaffham |
|
|
|
| Les and Vanessa Scott met at art college, but found their true metier in 1990 when they transformed their family home, an elegant listed villa, into a delightful hotel. Their artistic flair is reflected in the eclectic decoration: luxurious, funky rooms with interesting furniture, plump cushions and masses of books. The food is a highlight and wins awards, with everything from bread to chocolates made in Vanessa’s kitchen. Don’t miss the exceptional British cheeseboard. |
|
|
 |
|
| Mid Price: Style and ambience on the Holkham estate |
| Location: Holkham, beside Holkham Park grounds and close to the beach |
|
|
|
| The theme may be colonial India, with colourful furnishings from Rajhastan, but the Victoria, which was built in 1838, feels thoroughly English in a laid-back, feel-good way. Though six years on from its last revamp, recent reports highlight the fact that it’s beginning to look a little tired. The surrounding area affords a choice of serious walks and gentler ones around vast Holkham Estate. Food is a highlight and there’s an appealing buzz in the restaurant. Welcoming and child-oriented. |
|
|
|
|
| Mid Price: Style and ambience on the Somerleyton estate |
| Location: Fritton: on Somerleyton Estate in the Broads |
|
|
|
| On the edge of a country park centred on beautiful Fritton Lake, this 15th-century former smugglers’ inn is run on delightfully informal lines by Hugh Crossley and his team: ring for anything from your room – tea, a mojito, even dinner – and it shall be brought. The nine bedrooms are coolly comfortable with splashes of colour. Downstairs you’ll find a cosy sitting room and lively bar and restaurant. |
|
|
|
|
| Inexpensive: Charming traditional pub with a stylish twist |
| Location: in Snettisham, on the edge of the Wash, and opposite the village cricket pitch |
|
|
|
| Hands-on owners Anthony and Jeannette Goodrich have given an up-beat, contemporary lift to their relaxed, child-friendly, typically English pub with twisting passages, beamed ceilings and log fires. They’ve created 16 fresh, stylish bedrooms with crisp white linen and modern furnishings, three dining rooms, three bars and a first-rate kitchen. There’s spectacular bird-watching from Snettisham beach and walks, golf and sailing on the doorstep. |
|
|
|
|
| Inexpensive: Enchanting windmill in superb coastal birdwatching country |
| Location: Cley-next-the-Sea: on the north side of the village |
|
|
|
| It's hard to think of anywhere more romantic to lay your head than a real windmill. A charmingly converted early 18th-century mill, Cley has cosy beamed reception rooms and attractive bedrooms, including some in the old stables and boathouses (where you can self-cater). Rooms in the windmill are sheer 'Swallows and Amazons' fun and adventure, and there are panoramic views from the look-out. Plus: the new, caring owners have installed an excellent chef for dinners. |
|
|
|
|
| Inexpensive: Breezy and fun, a revamped inn with fabulous coastal views |
| Location: Brancaster Staithe: facing road at front, sea at the rear |
|
|
|
| It’s the fabulous waterfront position of the White Horse that really scores, but nothing inside – from the airy conservatory restaurant serving, amongst others, local fish dishes, to the simple, fresh nautical bedrooms – lets the side down. One special bedroom is huge, with terrace, while eight others curve towards the coastal path and the sea in a cunning flint-walled, grass-roofed extension. Friendly and great fun. |
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
