Favourite dog-friendly cottages in Norfolk
Norfolk’s huge coastline, wild beaches, endless coastal paths, brilliant pubs and friendly locals make it a complete doggy heaven. The majority of beaches allow dogs even during summer, and the lack of crowds in winter means you can just go back to basics and relax. We reveal six of our favourite dog friendly cottages in Norfolk below; find places to go with the whole family as well as cosy boltholes for just the three of you.
1. Old Hall Farm Barn
All is quiet at this lovely big barn; little lanes lead to stunning countryside where all you’ll hear is the gentle sounds of wildlife. Hikers will find a trio of byways: The Marriott, Peddar’s Way and Boudicca all within a short reach. Best yet, days spent stomping through the hills are met with evenings cuddled up by the wood-burning fire.
Katy and Phil leave a generous welcome basket including cake, Prosecco and juice from the farm’s own Cox’s and Red Pippin apples. Throw together simple suppers in the sleek kitchen to enjoy out on the sun-trap terrace whilst the dogs and kids run around the huge garden. Then it’s toasting marshmallows around the firepit or heading upstairs to the mezzanine for books and wine when everyone’s gone to bed.
2. Banes Cottage
This idyllic gardener’s cottage in Norfolk is nestled in the grounds of a Tudor stately home complete with a moat. You’re free to roam the gardens or walk bridle paths over to the coast. The Georgian town of Holt is just a short drive away, as are the wonderful beaches and salt marshes – perfect for days exploring.
Inside, cosiness reigns supreme. There’s a real coal fire, exposed beams, a quaint country kitchen as well as plenty of games, books and DVDs. Store your boots, bikes and muddy dog towels in the scullery to the side. Out in the garden, enjoy barbecues with far-reaching views or just relax with a cup of tea and a book. As far as unique dog friendly cottages in Norfolk go, you can’t get any better than this.
3. Hill Cottage
Tucked away in a peaceful cul de sac is this 1800s drover’s cottage. Step in to discover fresh flowers and a basket of logs, rose-strewn curtains, a duck egg-blue sofa, a hand-crafted kitchen and a colourful kilim: all you need to keep snug on the wintery-est night. Everything has been stripped back to its original style, showcasing beautiful exposed beams and a pretty fireplace.
Pooches will love the lawned garden and ample green space that surrounds; find a common to one side and a woodland to the other. There aren’t many dog-friendly cottages on the Norfolk coast that have Cley and Wells-next-the-Sea right on the doorstep. After long days exploring it’s home to a deep soak in a free-standing tub and sweet dreams; the relaxing bedroom is a treat.
4. Shangri-La
4. Shangri-LaIt might feel like luxury dog-friendly cottages in Norfolk are difficult to come by, but Shangri-La disproves just that. This architect-designed house by the sea sits just behind the sand dunes at one of Norfolk’s loveliest dog-friendly beaches, Waxham. With the beach track running right past the garden, the position of this eco-build is truly unmatchable.
Inside, the decor is stylish and perfect for all-season stays. In summer, play cricket out in the one-acre garden and enjoy a G&T on the deck. Winter is perfect for empty beaches, spotting young seals on the sands and heading out on blustery walks along the coast. With ample space for up to six guests, this is a special spot for a family holiday.
5. Cartshed Cottages at Sharrington Hall
You’ll be more than happy to roll up and park yourself at these beautiful cottages crafted, as the name suggests, from the building that once housed the estate’s carts. Renovation has left the beams and stones intact but given them all the air of a chic, stylish hotel in tones of silver and taupe. Two are dog friendly and the area is fantastic for walks, whether it’s on the sandy strands of Holkham and Brancaster or across the miles of atmospheric marshy horizons at Blakeney and Salthouse. Half a mile away you’ll find an award-winning deli and there are so many pubs, seafood shacks, chip shops, smokehouses and restaurants nearby that’ll you be planning your meals carefully to fit them all in.
Written by
Ella Perryman
Ella has a great eye for telling a story in a full article or a single picture. Marshall only has eyes for anyone who’ll give him a scratch or a biscuit. He’s also partial to a wander in the woods and days spent digging in the sand. Together, they’re a coastal adventure dream team who love heading back to Ella’s Devon roots or exploring the rugged fringes of Wales.
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