As we wove through historic market towns and mile after mile of gold and green fields, the magic of North Norfolk began to reveal itself. Surrounded by farms and woodland, nestled between three pretty villages but belonging to none, nowhere embodies this magic quite like Thursford Castle. This historic site lay forgotten for decades until Sally and Mark Hickling stumbled upon the overgrown grounds in 2013, and its potential as a restorative, romantic escape was realised.
Enclosed by woodland, a pair of cosy boltholes for two lie hidden away from the rest of the world. There’s a spacious sun-trap garden room set within original Victorian walls, where the footprint of the old building is still traceable through beds of native blooms. Over the wall, a cool Scandi-style cabin occupies a meadow all of its own. While they differ in size and style, both are supremely comfortable, equipped for self-catering, and totally private. North Norfolk’s stately homes and picturesque beaches are all in striking distance, but we could’ve happily spent all our time sat on our sundrenched deck, absorbing the peace; the chorus of birds and buzzing bees were all that broke the silence. It was bliss, and we can't wait to return.
Highs
- Unique, beautifully designed accommodation offering plenty of privacy and outdoor space
- Peaceful location within the bucolic Norfolk countryside, and only a short drive from the coast
- After a day of exploring, the big, comfy beds and wood-burning stoves are a treat to return to
- On a clear night, the stargazing here is incredible - well worth staying up for
- We loved chatting to Sally, and her tips about what to see and do in the area steered us well
Lows
- You'll need a car to get around as there's nothing within walking distance, but you can rent e-bikes on-site for shorter journeys
- Kitchens come with the essentials (seasoning, oil, tea and instant coffee), but stock up on food before you arrive; the closest supermarket is 15mins away
- Two quiet country roads run either side of the property so you may occasionally hear a passing car (or tractor!)
- Over 18s only to preserve the peaceful atmosphere
Best time to go
The grounds of Thursford Castle will look their best spring through autumn, transitioning from a wildflower oasis to deep fall colours. It's a great base for a summer break, only a short drive from the sweeping North Norfolk coast, and in winter the wood-burning stoves make the cabins impossible to leave.
Our top tips
Hire an e-bike and cycle around the quiet countryside. You'll quickly come across pretty villages with charming pubs to pit stop at. The Carpenter's Arms in Wighton and The Three Horseshoes in Warham are popular gastropubs within cycling distance.
There's a lovely farm shop in Little Walsingham (2 miles away) which stocks local produce and has a great deli counter. Fakenham has a range of supermarkets if you need to do a big shop.
There's a lovely farm shop in Little Walsingham (2 miles away) which stocks local produce and has a great deli counter. Fakenham has a range of supermarkets if you need to do a big shop.
Location
Thursford Castle sits between the villages of Little Walsingham, Great Snoring and Thursford, a short drive from the North Norfolk coast.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Norwich (40km / a 40-minute drive away), which sees flights from other cities in the UK and a few European destinations, but far more airlines serve London Stansted (148km / a 2-hour drive away).
From the Airport
You'll need to hire a car (see below), as Thursford Castle is remote and you’ll have to drive to shops and restaurants.
By Car:
You definitely need a car to explore North Norfolk. If you’re not bringing your own and want to hire one, see our car rental recommendations.
There's plenty of parking on-site, and detailed directions will be provided when you confirm a booking through i-escape.com.
More on getting to the UK and getting around
Airports:
- Norwich Airport 40.0 km NWI
- London Stansted 148.0 km STN
Other:
- Beach 10.0 km
- Shops 4.0 km
- Restaurant 4.8 km