Utopia, Stalham

Revel in a truly special retreat with a self-catering stay at this charming two-bedroom cottage. Nestled on the northern edge of the Norfolk Broads near Stalham Staithe. This beloved bolthole offers an idyllic base for families, friends and their four-pawed pals. Enjoy rural walks from the doorstep, hire a day boat and explore one of the UK's most treasured natural environments at your own pace, or get a lesson in local history at The Museum of the Broads, just 500 metres away. For a change of scenery, Waxham or Sea Palling beaches (5 miles) are a couple of the many along the nearby stretch of coast. Horsey Gap (8 miles) has a huge resident seal colony, while in the opposite direction, Mundesley (11 miles) is a pretty Victorian seaside village. If you’re holidaying with children, BeWILDerwood (8.5 miles) is unmissable – a magical theme park with tree-top adventures, enchanting boat rides and outdoor trails aplenty. After days of adventure among Norfolk’s waterways and countryside, return to this characterful holiday home and you’ll feel the warmth of over 100 years of family history. The kitchen retains its original charm stocked with an abundance of crockery and all the essentials for fuss-free self-catering. Adjacent, the cosy lounge/dining room is the social heart of the property; unwind by the wood burner to watch TV, enjoy one of the many DVD films available, borrow a book from the shelves or simply sit back and enjoy lovely views over the extensive grounds. The dining suite comfortably accommodates up to six guests, with the lounge featuring a sofa bed for additional flexibility. Art on the walls and some lovely pieces of retro furniture complement the authentic ambience, which continues in the ground-floor bathroom, which has fabulous Art Deco styling for added glamour. Upstairs, two welcoming bedrooms provide peaceful sanctuaries – choose from a king-size room and a twin. The extensive grounds surrounding the cottage are nothing short of spectacular, offering huge open gardens that invite exploration and relaxation in equal measure. A private driveway means you can explore at leisure; enjoy quiet moments watching for wildlife, fire up the BBQ and dine alfresco or stroll to the water’s edge for a spot of fishing. Hire a small day boat and you can tie up to your own private mooring to collect provisions, it is also suitable for using paddle boards and canoes – supervision is recommended for both children and pets to ensure everyone safely enjoys the waterside setting.