South Norfolk is rural, tranquil and a historical treasure trove.
Tiny, quiet roads make great cycle lanes. Picturesque villages invite you to linger and explore and flint-clad churches beckon almost at each corner. The beer is tasty, the food delicious and I can't imagine of a more relaxing way to spend a holiday than meader through Norfolk.
And, like the rest of this wonderful county, south Norfolk offers an
enormous variety of all kinds of accommodation. When looking for holiday cottages in Norfolk, you're really spoilt for choice: from quaint thatched cottages to grandiose barns, plus maybe an old schoolhouse or a church or two.
So, again, here's a little selection of holiday cottages in Norfolk that really make me wish it was time to go on holiday.
A delightful two bedroom conversion of a hay barn, in the rural hamlet of West End near Necton.
This Necton cottage offers relaxing country living with modern amenities in a large open plan living area, featuring a kitchen, dining area, and sitting area, and French doors opening into the garden, which has a running stream and a covered veranda, perfect for alfresco dining overlooking the pond.
A private bridge takes you to the shared gardens, where ducks and chickens roam freely and horses can be seen grazing in their paddocks.
Situated on the border between Norfolk and Suffolk, this house - which hardly deserves the name of cottage - is a fine example of a Suffolk longhouse and spacious enough to cater for a large family or group of friends. It sleeps nine! Tthe boating centres of Bungay and Beccles with their antique shops, cafes and restaurants are close, as are Norwich and even the Suffolk coast.
The house dates back to 1420, but has been thoroughly modernised in the intervening years. It even boasts an indoor heated pool. Outside it's surrounded by rolling countryside, fine views and the owner's working farm. The house is very comfortably furnished, but many of its character features have been preserved. If you like beams, then this house has plenty good examples and there's a woodburner for the chillier days of the year.
South Norfolk has always attracted people who sought tranquillity. These days many of us also love to explore the tiny villages, the market towns with their myriad of independent little shops and the countryside in between. I couldn't think of a better way to spend my holidays.
Want to explore another part of Norfolk? Check out places to stay :
For more ideas on what to do and see in Norfolk, please return from holiday cottages in Norfolk to our county page.