Something Different
Overlooking saltmarshes and reedbeds on the unspoilt North Norfolk Coast, 18th C. Cley Windmill offers both bed and breakfast and self-catering options. Discover character, charm and comfort - with the picturesque flint houses and specialist shops of Cley-next-the-Sea.
Just along the coastline at Burnham Deepdale (nr. Hunstanton) is Deepdale Farm, where you can spend a night or two in a authentic Sioux Native American style tipi. This is the king of tents with room to stand and walk around - or to enjoy the company of your friends around the fire.
The Landmark Trust is a charity specialising in rescuing historic buildings - and then allowing us to stay in them. Standing close to the present Queen's country retreat at Sandringham (nr. King's Lynn), the foundation stone of Appleton Water Tower was laid in 1877 by the Princess of Wales. Stay on the beach in the impressive stronghold of Aldeburgh's Martello Tower. The country's largest, it was originally constructed to keep out the French dictator Napoleon. Keeping the boilers alight at Stretham Old Engine (nr. Ely) was the responsibility of the person who lived at Stoker's Cottage, an intriguing glimpse of bygone times. Relive the country life by staying in the timber-framed Keeper's Lodge at Old Warden (nr. Biggleswade) - where you don't need to ward off the poachers today. Whilst standing six stories high, and with no fewer than 26 windows, the ornate 16th C. Freston Tower overlooks the River Orwell at Ipswich. Enjoy watery panoramic views.
More ‘grand designs' at Palladian-style Holkham (nr. Wells-next-the-Sea) - stay in style in the Triumphal Arch designed by famous architect William Kent, and discover the deer park of the Earls of Leicester. Or head to the Jacobean gem of Audley End House (nr. Saffron Walden), where the gatehouse (built 1842) now sleeps four with its tall decorative chimneys and bay windows.
The National Trust also offers several historic properties for self-catering holidays, such as the Coastguard Cottages at the wildlife-rich paradise of Dunwich Heath (nr. Saxmundham); or the former private race stand of the 2nd Earl of Buckinghamshire at Blickling Hall (nr. Aylsham), where the roof terrace is great for star-gazing. Once home to the Hervey Family, the East Wing at Ickworth (Horringer, nr. Bury St. Edmunds) is now a luxury hotel for families, surrounded by
1,800 acres of glorious English parkland. There are also 11 exclusive apartments.
The planned holiday village of Thorpeness (nr. Aldeburgh) is home of the House in the Clouds Standing 70ft high, this is one of the country's most famous follies - the building providing spacious accommodation for a family holiday. Originally intended to provide storage for the village's water supply, you can enjoy the views over the Heritage Coast.
Quality Assessment Schemes
When you're looking for a place to stay, you need an assessment scheme you can trust. VisitBritain and The AA operate harmonised standards - using stars.
National Accessible Scheme
If you have particular mobility, visual or hearing needs, look out for the National Accessible Scheme. You can be confident of finding accommodation that meets your needs by using this scheme.
Welcome Schemes
These schemes highlight operators that provide facilities and services to welcome certain groups, such as Cyclists, Families, Pets and Walkers.