The location of and the accommodation in the cottage were what we wanted i.e. a 2-bedroom cottage in a rural position near Aylsham and the coast. We liked the fact that all the rooms were a really good size - all too often in holiday cottages the rooms are small and pokey. Each bedroom had its own bathroom. The cottage was clean and tidy and well equipped, although we could have done with a few more plates and bowls. The cottage is close to a lovely old watermill which has a beautiful garden, so our surroundings were a joy to wake up to. The owner was friendly.
Attending a family gathering in Weybourne we chose Swallow Cottage just 10 miles or so inland as somewhere we could relax away from the hussle and bussle of the coastal resort . We were not disappointed.
The cottage,which sits in the lovely extensive 4+acres grounds of the Mill, was spacious, spotless, comfortably furnished with a well laid out kitchen/dining area and in fact provided us with everything we needed. Having travelled for 2 days to get to Norfolk it became a home from home for the next 4 days.
A word must be said about the owners Liz and Peter who live in the Mill. A lovely couple who we instantly warmed to and who welcomed us to their idyllic environment. We spent most of our time at the cottage/gardens and in the surrounding area eating out at the local pub where the food and ambiance was excellent.
All in all a secret jewel in Norfolk and have already recommended to family and friends
This pleasant conversion is located close to the owners' impressive mill house in a quiet rural location with extensive private grounds. There is ample parking and the mill grounds can be explored at will - very picturesque and calming: rivers, mill-ponds, bridges, a 'tame' pheasant, and even a small flock of sheep - quite idyllic!
The owners offer a warm and thoughtful welcome - we visited at Easter time and we delighted by the complimentary basket of easter eggs, as well as a few essentials - tea and coffee and milk.
The cottage itself is nice - a large living space with a couch, armchairs and TV, with an 'imitation' wood/coal burner which actually looks pretty good and provides decent heat if needed. Heating is supplemented by electric convector heaters. We were a bit nervous that all heating is run on a £1 coin meter - but the meter was 'full' when we arrived and a 4 day weekend with liberal use of the heating cost us only a further £5, so not really a concern.
The kitchen area, which has a nice breakfast bar and a further table to supplement the main dining table is the living space is light and airy - the kitchen is well equipped with all that is needed. A new set of kitchen knives might be in order though :-)
There are two good sized bedrooms - one downstairs, the other upstairs. Both have en suite shower/toilets. The upstairs bathroom is a bit tight on head-space, but not majorly so.
A short walk from the cottage is the Walpole Arms - a lovely pub which serves great beer and great food - but remember to book: it is very popular! Also within walking distance is the village shop. No ordinary village shop this - an outstanding selection of delightful things as well as a good stock of essentials.
If I have any criticism, it is that the cottage feels a bit 'dowdy' - although that may have been down to the rather 'grey' weather. A brighter carpet, and some new pictures/photos for the walls might make a big difference. It's also worth noting that the wifi signal is weak - although that was made clear before booking.
However, this is a lovely spot - comfortable and welcoming - in a beautiful part of the country close to some useful amenities. I would recommend it without hesitation.
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Lovely cottage, set next to an old renovated mill. Plenty of parking, very peaceful location - great view from bedroom window. Ideal spot for seeing some of Norfolk's beautiful countryside and coast. Pub (Walpole Arms) does very good meals at the end of the drive. Blickling Hall is nearby and worth a visit. Go to the Buckinghamshire Arms to eat - they give HUGE portions! Definitely recommend this place.
How easy was it to book the property? | How helpful were the directions to the property? |
How easy was key pickup/access to the property? | Overall condition of the property |
Bedding & mattresses | Kitchen & utensils |
Bathroom cleanliness | Other facilities & amenities |
Service |
Friends getaway | Older travelers |