History, comfort and charm on Norfolk’s ‘Brecks’

College Farm dates back to the 1300s, when it was built as a Chantry to pray for souls culled in the Black Death. Modern comforts have been carefully adopted without upsetting period details: the panelled Jacobean Dining Room is a natural highlight. Add friendly animals including llamas, alpacas, sheep and chickens, place them in 17 acres of grounds, add on evening meals for £20 and you’ve just found a very good reason to visit Norfolk.

There are three guest bedrooms here, each with their own particular character. All are equipped with Freeview TV and a tea and coffee tray. Edward’s Room has a five foot bed, an en-suite shower and looks east over the walled garden. Richard’s room has twin beds that can be zipped together to make a six-foot double, a walk-in wardrobe and a large en-suite bathroom with basin and shower. The Spare Room also has twin zippable beds and an en-suite loo, but its private bathroom (loo, basin and shower) is two steps across a private corridor.

While there’s no separate sitting room for guests the Jacobean panelled dining room, where meals are served, is a perfect substitute. Many games of cards have been settled on the antique dining table over the years. The grounds are a delight with a mix of natural beauty and plenty of history. College Farm was built as a Chantry to serve St Martin’s church: both date back to the 1300’s. There are seventeen acres in all, dotted with pingos, the ponds and lakes unique to the area that date back to the last Ice Age. The estate includes flower and vegetable gardens, sweeping fields with stately trees, woodlands to explore and animals to meet.

College Farm suggests

Book direct for the best rates, with discounts available for longer stays. Just call or email to see what can be arranged.