Barsham Barns
North Barsham, Norfolk, United Kingdom
Reviewed by
Christabelle Dilks
Why isn’t everyone talking about North Norfolk? After walking the vast sands of Holkham beach and a feast of local seafood, you’ll insist your friends come next time. But please, restrain yourself. What makes North Norfolk so special - besides flinty villages stuck in the 1930's, and disarmingly friendly locals - is the near-empty beaches. There's wildlife from waterfowl to seals, it’s stunningly unspoilt.
The six Barsham Barns are ideal bases for exploration: beautifully secluded, and brilliantly designed by local architect Anthony Hudson with clean lines and dramatic spaces inside, which match (but never outshine) the grand skies outside. Set in North Barsham, near Walsingham, all share a serene aesthetic: open-plan with walls of deep teal, exposed stone, or aubergine, set against carefully chosen Moroccan treasures or crisp Swedish dressers. Wide windows cut into long walls make paintings of the rolling landscape. They’re cosy in winter, with underfloor heating and wood-burning stoves, and glorious in summer, with seating and barbecues in private gardens. Come for a week, and don’t tell a soul.
The six Barsham Barns are ideal bases for exploration: beautifully secluded, and brilliantly designed by local architect Anthony Hudson with clean lines and dramatic spaces inside, which match (but never outshine) the grand skies outside. Set in North Barsham, near Walsingham, all share a serene aesthetic: open-plan with walls of deep teal, exposed stone, or aubergine, set against carefully chosen Moroccan treasures or crisp Swedish dressers. Wide windows cut into long walls make paintings of the rolling landscape. They’re cosy in winter, with underfloor heating and wood-burning stoves, and glorious in summer, with seating and barbecues in private gardens. Come for a week, and don’t tell a soul.
Highs
- In peaceful countryside, just 15-25-minutes' drive from the coast
- Gorgeous contemporary design: not offputtingly cool; supremely comfortable
- Great for a party with flexible accommodation: hire all 6 (or some) for an unforgettable bash or weekend with friends
- Super for children: safe outdoor spaces for running around; twin bedrooms; a games room
Lows
- If all the barns are full, you might be aware of fellow guests, though each is cunningly designed to minimise sight of others, and there's a zero-tolerance noise policy after 11pm
- A car is essential. There’s no shop or pub to walk to, and you'll need to drive for eating out (10-20 mins). There’s lots to do nearby, but it’s all at least a short drive away
- A 3-night minimum stay
Best time to go
Come in the autumn, early spring, or even the depths of winter, when Norfolk is wonderful: the beaches are always spectacular and the skies immense (fabulous stargazing!). There’s no one at all on the beaches, and you’ll have all the amazing local restaurants to yourself. An ideal retreat.
Our top tips
Avoid visiting the pretty towns of Wells, Holt and Burnham Market in the peak of summer, when they are very busy and parking is a nightmare, head to lesser known towns and beaches instead. Stock up on provisions and revel in the peace and quiet in your barn.