A Cosy Coastal Cottage Stay in Norfolk
A couple of weeks ago, I took a trip to Norfolk for the first time in a few years to the gorgeous fairytale cottage, Suffield Lodge. I was kindly invited to stay by Sawday’s to create content for the cottage. If you're looking for a countryside escape that’s equal parts stylish and serene, Suffield Lodge in Norfolk is one to add to your list! You’re surrounded by the peaceful countryside and are just a short drive from the lovely Norfolk coastline. The cottage is SO beautifully presented, with a perfect mix of original features, warm textures, and interiors that make it feel so inviting.
How do you get to Suffield Lodge?
You can access the cottage easily by public transport as the closest station is Gunton, which connects to other rail networks via Norwich and is one mile away. From London Liverpool Street, it takes about 2.5 - 3 hours. From here, you’ll need to have pre-booked a taxi. While Suffield Lodge is definitely reachable by train, I’d recommend driving if you plan to explore more of Norfolk during your stay, as having a car offers much more flexibility to visit nearby villages, beaches, and walking trails.
Norwich Airport is also 25 minutes away by car and there are flight connections to worldwide destinations via Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam.
Things to know about a stay at Suffield Lodge
It sleeps up to 6 adults and 2 children and prices start from £550 per night. If all 6 people stay, this is £92 per night. The cottage has a 3-night minimum stay but you’ll want to stay longer to make the most of the slower pace.
The living space is open and airy with high ceilings but still feels snug, with squashy sofas, big cushions, warm yellow on the walls and plenty of books and games to keep you occupied.
The kitchen is really well-equipped and a lovely space to cook in. It was definitely my favourite space in the cottage — I especially loved the dining space and Smeg fridge!
There are three double bedrooms and a twin bedroom (only suitable for children as the beds are under sloping ceilings). Each bedroom is so uniquely designed and charming and with garden views. One of the double bedrooms is only accessed through the upstairs bathroom and also has low ceilings.
There is also a huge outdoor space, including a private garden, patio area with table and chairs which is perfect for summer evenings. There are also outdoor games available for guests to use.
The nearest supermarkets are Waitrose and Sainsbury’s, which are both less than a 10-min drive away. I’d recommend stocking up on groceries before you arrive!
If you are driving, there is an electric charger outside which was really handy for our trip!
Things to do in Norfolk
While Suffield Lodge is perfect for doing very little, there’s also plenty to explore nearby. If you do want to explore, I recommend either driving or hiring a car as public transport once you’re in the area is quite limited. There is SO much to do in Norfolk and I’ve only just scratched the surface but a few recommendations are:
The Gunton Arms pub and restaurant — there are plenty of country pubs nearby but Gunton Arms is just a 30-min walk or 5-min drive from Suffield Lodge. You could do a walk through Gunton Estate and stop for food here.
The Lodge Farm shop — we discovered this wee shop on a drive home. It’s a self-service farm shop with fresh produce and more. You could also pick up some pizzas here to cook back at the cottage.
Cromer — a classic Norfolk seaside town with a sandy beach, pier, and plenty of fish and chips options. We stopped at No 1 Cromer and ate fish and chips by the sea.
Sheringham — another seaside town with lots of charity shops, coffee shops and a wide beach perfect for walks. We picked up some baked goods from Winibees Bakery which I’d highly recommend!
Holt — a pretty market town with independent shops, homeware boutiques, delis and great cafes. It’s a nice stop for a morning coffee or an afternoon browse.
Holkham Beach and Estate — a bit further afield but SO worth the drive. This part of the coast is known for its big skies, sandy beaches, and nature reserves. Holkham Beach is huge and the Holkham Estate often hosts events or seasonal markets.
Find more Norfolk activity ideas here. I’ll be sharing a much more detailed Norfolk itinerary soon too!
