The Firecrest

While the tiny villages of Norfolk offer postcard-ready, rural scenes that you would expect, this home has quite the opposite of a rustic aesthetic. A two-minute stroll from the nearest pub in Banningham, or an eighteen-minute drive to coastal delights like the pier of Cromer, you can still enjoy traditional activities – but in a rather modern setting.

The exterior presents a cottage-like feel with red bricks and chunky timber supports propping up a slate roof. And that’s where the rustic feel ends. Step inside to beautifully 21st-century interiors, where the apex ceiling and bright white walls create an impressive sense of space and zen.

Kick off your walking boots and sink into the plush sofa while you look through the generous welcome hamper from your host. Whether you fancy a cup of tea, or wine is more your tipple, anything will go well with fresh bread and homemade cake. And you don’t need to prepare lunch either (although it’s a delight to cook in the sleek kitchen or on the barbecue), as your host can arrange for a private chef to make your meals in-house. We recommend dining alfresco in the lush, secluded garden – listen to birds sing while you savour every last bite on the sunny patio.

Home truths:
*The welcome hamper of local produce contains: milk, orange juice, butter, cheese, eggs, cereal, wine, filter coffee, crisps, jam/marmalade, homemade cake, and fresh bread
*Your host can provide a high chair, stairgate, and travel cot upon request – they can also provide cot linen if required
*The wet room features a two-person shower with a digital power shower
*Private parking is available (and we do recommend bringing a car to explore the region)
*There's no dedicated workspace, but plenty of laptop-friendly spots
*The entrance is private to your home
*There's a surround-sound, Bluetooth alarm clock and built-in phone charger, plus a vibrating alarm clock